Clean Romance Reviews

Author Interview: Cathy Bryant & Jessica Dorman

2013-06-18T07:00:00.000-05:00

Lost Love and Shipwrecked: Madeline Pike Finds Hope in the New Land

Unshakable Faith Series

Cathy Bryant & Jessica Dorman

Give us a bit of your background (where are you from, your family, traveling adventures)

We are from Maine, which is where we currently live. We have enjoyed seeing much of the beautiful U.S. as well as parts of Canada. Our family arrived in America in 1635 aboard a ship that wrecked just off the coast of Maine. Happily for us, our ancestor—Ralph Bleasdell and his wife Elizabeth—survived.

Fill in the blank favorites - Type of hero. Type of heroine.

Our favorite hero or heroine will possess strong, godly characteristics intermingled with traits that we, as the reader, can relate to. It is especially enjoyable to observe a transformation in a hero or heroine that is beneficial with regard to his interpersonal relationships as well as his or her relationship with God.

Most writers are readers. What are some of the books you have on your nightstand and/or on your "must read" list?

We really enjoy anything in the genre of historical fiction, especially when it is sprinkled with romance. Julie Klassen and Lori Wick are two of our favorite authors. We also enjoy reading contemporary fiction authors such as Dee Henderson and Karen Kingsbury. We also like the classics.

Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go?

England would be most beneficial for our writing genre and time frame, but Israel has always been on our list of places we would most like to visit.

What is your favorite genre to write?

Historical fiction/inspirational romance

What got you started on your writing journey?

We were chatting one day when we each shared that we had a desire to write. We were surprised to learn that we had the same time frame in mind for writing. From there the idea took off.

Why do you choose to write clean/sweet romance?

We believe that there are not enough examples of godly relationships for our culture to understand God’s view of such things. The entertainment industry is so lacking in this area. We are always let down when a relationship moves to the physical before marriage in books or movies. It just seems to cheapen it somehow.

What other things do you have planned with your writing for the rest of the year 2013?

Our second book in the series is coming out if a few months. We are currently working on a third.

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

We would say probably more than we realize. Additionally, some of the characters in our second book resemble people we know.

Where do your ideas come from?

Our premise, at least for the first two books in the series, comes from some of our ancestors. We seem to have some interesting stories in our genealogical outline.

How many books have you written, and how many of those have been published?

We have written two books for this particular series. One has been published and the other is currently in the publishers hands. It should be out by summer.

What are the elements of a great romance for you?

We have always loved Jane Austen type romances where there is a bit of suspense. Mainly, when a romance leads to the physical before marriage, it is a big turn off. As we have already mentioned, it cheapens it in some way when that happens. For example, we were enjoying a particular series when the two characters we most hoped would realize their feelings for each other—came together physically the moment the epiphany happened. What a letdown! It would have been much better to see them go on from there courting and respecting each other, and then having their relationship culminate in marriage.

Please share about your book

Lost Love and Shipwrecked, Madeline Pike Finds Hope in the New Land is a work of historical fiction with a flavor of inspirational romance. It is set in the a flavor of inspirational romance. It is set in the 17th century and commences with an actual event: thewreck of the Angel Gabriel just off the coast of Maine. Though our hero and heroine are fictional, we have interspersed some real people amongst them.

If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be?

Feisty, godly, funny, strong, and beautiful.

What are your hero and heroine of the story like?

They each have suffered great loss and feel a sense of guilt at having another chance at love. They are both giving, godly, and well liked.

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?

For anyone who enjoys a book which comprises a bit of history—regarding our godly heritage, highly seasoned with romance, we believe you would not be disappointed.

SMT: A Change of Plans

2013-06-15T07:49:00.000-05:00

A Change of Plans

Donna K Weaver

Contemporary Romance

When Lyn sets off on her supposedly uncomplicated and unromantic cruise, she never dreams it will include pirates. All the 25-year-old, Colorado high school teacher wants to do is forget that her dead fiancé was a cheating scumbag. Lyn plans a vacation diversion; fate provides Braedon, an intriguing surgeon. She finds herself drawn to him: his gentle humor, his love of music, and even his willingness to let her take him down during morning karate practices. Against the backdrop of the ship's make-believe world and temporary friendships, her emotions come alive.

However, fear is an emotion, too. Unaware of the sensitive waters he's navigating, Braedon moves to take their relationship beyond friendship--on the very anniversary Lyn is on the cruise to forget. Lyn's painful memories are too powerful, and she runs from Braedon and what he has to offer.

Their confusing relationship is bad enough, but when the pair finds themselves on one of the cruise's snorkeling excursions in American Samoa things get worse. Paradise turns to piracy when their party is kidnapped and Lyn's fear of a fairytale turns grim. Now she must fight alongside the man she rejected, first for their freedom and then against storms, sharks, and shipwreck.

Tour: Kerry Taylor

2013-06-13T07:00:00.000-05:00

One author, 3 amazing books! Get to know her:

Kerry Taylor was born in London, but is living in Madrid, Spain with her three children.
She has written several romantic comedies, short stories and her first erotica book.

Find more about her at: www.kerrytaylor74.wordpress.com

If you want to know more about her work, just check her latest releases:

Quick facts for the 3 books:

Format: Paperback, Kindle, nook, apple, Kobo

Genres: Romance/Romantic Comedy/ Contemporary Fiction

Content: There is no explicit content in any of the books.

Blind Dating by Kerry Taylor

A Romantic Comedy

When mid-forties, divorced, single-mother-of-three, Kimberly, realizes her own mother has more of a life than she does, she decides to do something about it.

Encouraged by success stories from people at work, she joins a dating chat room, ICQ, which starts to rock her world.

All of a sudden she’s a swinging single, online, with extreme dates, a little dirty talk, and a sense of her new, sexy self— until that fateful moment when her long-time chat-room buddy, LonelySingle, wants to meet. "Are you trying to find a man on Facelook?" her Mom questions, after years of being told it is Facebook!

What if he doesn’t like her? What if she doesn’t like him? These are the thoughts, inside her head. Until they meet and realise, that they have been friends offline aswell as online! What happens next? A light-hearted, romantic comedy about a single mom finding true love, which was right before her eyes.

AMAZON B&N KOBO

STERILE by Isabella Jones (Kerry Taylor)

A Contemporary Woman Fiction

‘I am his wife, he no longer respects, touches or loves me.’

Lisa cries to herself at night. After 15 years of marriage, she cannot accept their fate: a life with no children. She wallows in paranoia as Mark works late and continues his career as a travelling salesman. Her accusations of him cheating on her result in their first major fight which leads to a trail of events that spiral out of Lisa's control.

Will Lisa manage to keep her tenuous grip on her marriage, her life and ultimately reality?

A novel about one woman’s struggle to carry on when her worst nightmare turns into reality.

AMAZON KOBO B&N

Love or Money by Kerry Taylor

A Romantic Comedy

Heather and Kelly are two single best friends who live and do everything together. When someone points out that the only other women who have a similar lifestyle are either lesbians or sisters, they decide it is time to move on and get married. How will they choose? Vowing to find their husbands together as well, they embark on a journey, equal parts hunt and madcap dating adventure, to find their dream husbands. With opposite tastes and ideas, will they be able to find husbands together? Searching for a man with money or searching for a man to love—who will find their husband first? And more importantly, is there a happy ending?

AMAZON B&N

Tour Giveaway

3 digital copies of Kerry's book at each blog! So follow the tour, get to know amazing blogs and have a lot more chances!

Tour Schedule

June 10: Black Lion Tours Blog: Spotlight

June 11: Fandom Fanatic: Spotlight

June 12: Laurie's Thoughts and Reviews: Interview

Love in a Book: Guest Post

June 13: Clean Romance Reviews: Spotlight

June 14: Rusty Reads: Spotlight

June 15: My Reading Obsession: Spotlight

June 16: Pure Jonel: Review

June 17: My Devotional Thoughts: Spotlight

June 18: I know that Book: Spotlight

June 19: Books, Books The Magical Fruit: Spotlight

Melissa's Midnight Musings: Spotlight

June 21: A Book Lover's Library: Spotlight

June 23: Kindred Dreamheart: Guest Post

A Novel Idea Live: Live Interview

June 25: My Seryniti: Spotlight

June 27: Tinasbookreviews: Guest Post

June 28: Deal Sharing Aunt: Review

June 29:Paperback Princess: Spotlight

June 30: That Girl Reads: Spotlight

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour: The Portrait

2013-06-12T07:00:00.000-05:00

About the book:

England 1812 Severely injured at the battle of Salamanca, Edward Thurston, the new Earl of Sinclair, returns home to his beloved Fly Hall. Determined not to present his prospective bride with the wreck he believes himself to have become, he decides to end his betrothal, unaware that Lady Jennifer, for vastly differing reasons, has reached the selfsame decision. Throughout the campaigns, Edward was often seen relying greatly on a miniature he carried, and it is to this token he clings upon his return. Will he eventually find happiness with the girl in the portrait, or will he remain firm in his resolve not to wed? Reason dictates one course, his heart another.

Book Excerpt:

Confused, he sat heavily in the leather chair set before the desk and attempted to force his eyes to focus on the boy before him. He cursed the fact that he’d drunk so much wine and shook his head as if to rid himself of its effects, but the figure remained the same. There was definitely something odd about the boy.

Due to the lateness of the hour and his intoxicated state, as he relaxed in the chair his head drooped forward and he too drifted into sleep. However, after only a few moments, an insistent hand shaking his shoulder woke him, and with a great effort, he fought his way back to consciousness.

“Edward, do wake up,” commanded an urgent voice. “I have need of you! Wake up!”

“Jen?” he expostulated in a bewildered tone, attempting to focus on the face above him.

“You’re drunk,” she accused with disgust.

“No, I’m not foxed,” he corrected, straightening in his seat. “Just slightly bosky.”

“You are decidedly drunk. I can’t believe you would choose this of all nights.”

“My profound apologies,” he said, gripping her shoulder and rising unsteadily to his feet. “Bad form to be bamboozled in front of a lady.” His eyes narrowed as he took stock of the figure before him. “What’s happened to your hair, Jen, and why are you wearing boys’ clothes? Though I must say, they suit you admirably.” Then almost as an afterthought, “Are they Freddie’s?”

“Yes, but never mind that,” she said impatiently, pushing him back into his seat. “Do try to understand that I need you.”

“At your service,” he said, once more standing erect and bowing. “I’m not so bosky as to render me useless, but I feel I must point out to you my dear that I am not at my best and this situation is highly irregular.” A frown puckered his brow as he looked questioningly about the room. “Does your maid accompany you? I don’t see her and surely you must realize that to be visiting a bachelor’s establishment at this time of night and without even your maid, is not at all the thing.”

She looked impatiently at him. “No, no one accompanies me. Oh, do sit down, Edward; I can’t talk to you when you tower over me as you’re doing now.”

“Why are you here,” he asked, resuming his seat. As an afterthought he added, “Not run away have you?”

“Certainly not! Though upon reflection, I can see that it may seem that I have. I never thought of it in that light. Now it will not do that you sidetrack me. It’s Perry and that ungracious brother of mine.”

He groaned, putting his hand to his bowed head. “Not another scrape! What now?”

“Perry came to see me late this afternoon. Freddie’s absconded.

Purchase a copy of the novel at the following links below:

Amazon.co.uk

Amazon.com

Barnes & Noble

About the author:

Hazel Statham lives in England and has been writing on and off since she was fifteen. Initially she was influenced by Austen, the Brontes, and Sabatini but when Hazel turned seventeen, Georgette Heyer opened up the romance and elegance of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. She immediately knew she had found her eras and wanted nothing more than to re-create them in her work. Hazel lives with her husband, Terry, and a beautiful Labrador named Mollie.

Stay up to date with the author via her:

Website

Twitter

Goodreads

Give us a bit of your background (where are you from, your family, traveling adventures)

I live in the UK, Staffordshire to be precise and have lived here all my life. I have been married to my husband Terry for almost 44 years and we have a married daughter named Clair and a beautiful grandson named Daniel (who, at 11 plays the guitar, keyboard and violin and is convinced he is going to be a rock star). Unfortunately, due to ill health, I am no longer able to travel outside the UK but previously we have visited the USA eleven times and have also travelled to Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, Canada and a cruise to The Bahamas. It seems rather tame now, being confined to travelling within our own country and we would love to visit America one last time but, according to the doctor, it’s not to be. We have a lovely yellow Labrador named Mollie and, even though my riding days are long gone, I am part owner with my daughter of a large gypsy cob, two foals and a Welsh Mountain pony. As you can probably guess from that, animals play a huge part in our lives.

Most writers are readers. What are some of the books you have on your nightstand and/or on your "must read" list?

I have just discovered Carla Kelly and am on a mission to read all her books – or at least, as many as I can find in Kindle format. She is a relatively new author to me but I have also recently read Anne Gracie and Mary Balogh.

What is your favorite genre to read?

Without a doubt it is Historical Romance. I love anything historical, be it fact or fiction.

What got you started on your writing journey?

To be honest, I don’t really know. All that I can remember is that at fifteen I had this desire to recreate my own historical world and just took up a pen and started to write. Then, everything was done in longhand and I filled countless ledgers (the only books available to accommodate my voluminous amount of writing). Now of course, there is the computer which helps to make writing a lot easier.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?

The fact that people all over the world can read and enjoy my work. In the beginning, I wrote only for my own amusement and was horrified when it was suggested I submit something to a publisher. It took quite a while for me to pluck up the courage but, when I did, my books were accepted in quite quick succession. I just hope my readers enjoy reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.

Do you have a favorite comment or question from a reader?

I love it when a reader says she has had to stay up late into the night to find out what’s happening next. There is also this lovely comment on Amazon for The Portrait ‘This is one of the most enjoyable books I've ever read. The characters jump off the pages into your imagination and the story line is wonderful.’

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

I would like to think I share some of the characteristics of my heroines but I have only shared their experiences in my imagination. However, some of our animals do appear in my work. For example, Mollie masqueraded as a Pointer in For Love of Sarah. About The Portrait! If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be? Edward is erudite, considerate, generous, protective and loving

What are your hero and heroine of the story like?

Edward, Earl of Sinclair is a young aristocrat who returns from war with horrendous injuries and is determined not to inflict himself on his betrothed. Lady Jennifer is a young lady with romantic ideals who feels she has been slighted by her would-be husband and together they decide to end their betrothal. So begins their friendship that unfurls and blossoms into love. Use no more than two sentences.

Why should we read your book?

I believe that all lovers of Traditional Regency Romance will enjoy Edward and Jennifer’s story. There is mystery, pathos, humour and ultimately love which will culminate in a satisfying end.

Giveaway:

To be in with a chance of winning a H/B copy of Consequence or a small item of jewellery. (e.g. pearl earrings) please leave a comment below with your email addie ANY comment you make during the tour on ANY post counts as an entry into the giveaway! The giveaway ends 30 June and a random commenter will be picked, emailed and announced on the Dilly Dally PR site. GOOD-LUCK!

The British Invasion Tour

2013-06-11T07:00:00.000-05:00

Fans of British chick lit & romantic comedy: Win a haul of books just in time for your summer holidays from some of the UK's best-loved and best-selling authors!

5 winners + 25 books = a Summer of Love

To celebrate the launch of Notting Hill Press, five lucky winners will each choose five personally inscribed and signed eBooks from the Notting Hill Press authors - there are 50 best-selling and award-winning books to choose from. To enter, go to Amazon (the giveaway is open to US or UK residents)* and:

Kick off your summer reading by buying any TWO eBooks listed below between now and June 13th.
Click the "Share This Item" button on the Amazon Thank You page after purchase to tweet/facebook about each book (if you use Facebook and/or twitter).
Enter to win by posting a comment over on the Notting Hill Press Facebook page telling us which two eBooks you bought. If you don’t use Facebook, you can enter the competition by adding your comment at the bottom of this post instead. Winners will bechosen randomly from all the comments (here and on Facebook) on June 14th.
"Like" the Notting Hill Press Facebook page to get freebies, discounts and sneak peeks at the authors' books before they're published! And if you're on twitter, follow@nottinghillPR

Choose any two of the eBooks below for your chance to win, and don't forget to check back here or on Facebook on June 14th to see if you've won!

Scarlett Bailey, alter-ego of Rowan Coleman, winner of RNA Epic Romantic Novel 2013
"A light, fun and fast-paced chunk of chortlesome chick-lit" - Heat
Also available:

Victoria Connelly, best-selling author of nine novels,
shortlisted for the RNA's Romantic Comedy of the Year 2013

"Sunshine on a rainy day. A charmingly written slice of warm-hearted escapism." Lisa Jewell
Also available:

Matt Dunn, #1 best-seller in Humour, shortlisted for the Romantic Novel Of The Year award and the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance
One office, five lives, on the most romantic day of the year
Also available:

Michele Gorman, #1 best-seller in Humour, #6 in Women's Fiction
Sometimes the life you walk away from doesn't let you walk away
Also available:


Belinda Jones, Sunday Times Top 10 best-selling author
How far will she go to win her Romeo?
Also available:


Chrissie Manby, Sunday Times best-selling author, nominated for the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance
"Nothing short of brilliant." Marie Claire
Also available:


Nicola May, 2012 Festival of Romance winner, Amazon Top 20 best-selling author
"Heartwarming, Unpredictable... loved it!" Woman Magazine
Also available:



Lucy Robinson,Top 3 Women's Fiction Debuts of 2012 and #1 eBook best-seller

"Romantic and laugh-out-loud hilarious" - Cosmopolitan
Also available:

Talli Roland, twice shortlisted for the UK’s Festival of Romance
Is finding true love as easy as an attitude change?
Also available:


Nick Spalding, one of Amazon UK’s Top 10 best-selling authors of 2012
Nick Spalding tried to write a book in 24 hours. Turns out that's impossible... it took 30!

Also available:


Sue Welfare, Sunday Times best-selling author, shortlisted for the Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance
Romance, recipes and the chance to start over is all a girl needs
Also available:


*This is an Amazon eBook giveaway, open to US and UK entries. It will run from June 3^rd through June 13^th. The five winners will be randomly selected and announced on June 14^th on the facebook page and Notting Hill Press blog. Winners can choose any 5 books from the participating authors - here's the list. The links above are to Amazon US. The same books are available on Amazon UK.

SMT: A Hero's Homecoming

2013-06-08T07:50:00.000-05:00

A Hero's Homecoming

Carlene Havel

Christian Romance

Contemporary Romance

When Colonel rich Martino returns home from overseas, his world is upside down. His credit cards are invalid, his wife is MIA, and a stranger is living in his house. He keeps running into people who are surprised he’s alive. Is it any wonder he has a hard time trusting the psychologist who claims to be the guardian of his comatose father’s estate? How does a man find his way home when he doesn’t believe in God?

Pride and Pretense

2013-06-07T07:52:00.000-05:00

Patricia Costa Viglucci
Contemporary Romance

"He turned toward her then, giving her a look she would never forget, a look which ended any possibility, now or forever, of his forgiving her."

Maggie Stanton will do anything for that promotion at the paper. Writing, especially as a drama critic, is what she loves to do. So when the chance to prove her worth and get that new position comes up, she is excited. That is, until she realizes it will involve trying to get an elusive interview with up-and-coming playwright, Zan Alexander. It should be no problem, but Maggie and Zan have a past - one that she's never forgotten and has prayed that he has. Will he hold the past against her, or worse, not remember her? The past ten years have changed a lot for both of them, though not, it seems, how Maggie feels for her older brother's friend. Can she find a way to do her job and perhaps find a way to make up for the past?

My Opinion: This was a cute romance, with great potential. The characters were fun, though I felt like they could have had more depth to them, as I barely learned more about the main characters than I did the side ones. The romance was good, a little steamy but not inappropriate. I did feel that the tempo was off, ending up like a string of steamy and good scenes with little to connect and smooth the transitions. This left it a little jumpy, but the plot was interesting overall with a satisfying romance. I had expected more of a Pride and Prejudice connection, given the title, but I didn't find that. It was it's own story, which was fun though unexpected. There were also several places where grammar or punctuation problems were distracting, but the story was still good.

I received a free copy of this book to review. No other compensation was given. The summary and review are 100% my own.

Author Interview: Sara Barnard

2013-06-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

Give us a bit of your background (where are you from, your family, traveling adventures)

Before I married up with my handsome Texan, I spent my semesters going to University and my summers working all around the country with the Park and Forest Services. I am very passionate about conservation of all kinds and was accepted into a Master’s program for Fish and Wildlife Conservation, but changed my focus area to Medieval European History and just began my studies! I lived in New Mexico and counted bats, banded cave swallows, tracked mountain lions, and caught and relocated troublesome rattlesnakes. I also worked in Alaska and tried my hand at gaining my private pilot’s certification. Unfortunately, the desire outlasted the means, but I had some great adventures in doing so! When my husband and I married, we moved to his Army base in Italy – that was an adventure in itself. Four children later, we have lived in two countries (together) and several states!

Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go?

Publishers take heed! Scotland. Hands down. I am working on a historical adventure/romance now inspired by true events that brought my family to America in the 18th century from Scotland.

What is your favorite genre to write?

Historical adventure/romance. People often ask why the slash, why not just adventure or romance? Because, the two go hand in hand. Especially in my world J Children’s is fun to write, too !My nonfiction book, The ABC’s of Oklahoma Plants, has hit #1 in nature books for kids twice this year and has been on the Amazon bestseller’s list since 2012. My debut picture book, Chunky Sugars, was published earlier this year and is a lot of fun! I have a couple more children’s books coming from 5 Prince Kids.

What is one silly fact about you?

If there is a good song on the radio, I will drive around until it’s over. If another good song comes on after that, then I will keep driving. The kids love it and it gives me an excuse to drive my Jeep Wrangler a little longer... especially if the top is down.

Why do you choose to write clean/sweet romance? Do you write steamy romance as well?

I have a young daughter who is a reading machine and top in her class in Accelerated Reader points!! She is often peeking over my shoulder when I am writing or is otherwise interested. She wants to be a writer, too! So I write stuff that she is safe for her to read and not be scarred for life. Also, I try to inspire and uplift with my books by weaving Christian undertones throughout. I try to stay away from the ultra-steamy and focus on the sheer romance aspect.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?

Hearing from the readers and how my words have either brightened or otherwise influences their lives or outlook on life.

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

All of it. Most everything that my characters endure in my books I have endured as well. Like Charlotte getting her throat slit by the renegade Yankees in A Heart on Hold ... I added that part when I had to have a total thyroidectomy. Her having a husband that came back from war wounded on the inside as well as the outside ... yup. I am still living that. The menagerie of animals that make an appearance – that is my family to a T. We are avid animal advocates and rescuers, so all that is truth.

How many books have you written, and how many of those have been published?

I have my four book historical romance/adventure series from 5 Prince Publishing. So far of those four, three have been released: A Heart on Hold released in August 2012 and has hit two bestseller lists and is a finalist for the 2012 RONE award. A Heart Broken released in January 2013 and is receiving a consistent rating of 5 Stars, and A Heart at Home which is my newest release. There are already a few 5 Star reviews out for this one, as well. Book 4, A Heart Forever Wild, is in the works. I have two children’s books on the market now, The ABC’s of Oklahoma Plants – an elementary aged regional nonfiction bestseller, and Chunky Sugars, a mommy-baby read. I have several more children’s books forthcoming from 5 Prince Kids, most of which are historical. I have a completed Amish romance my awesome editor is considering, and my Scottish adventure/romance. Several of my short stories have appeared in anthologies, too.

Please share about your book.

A Heart on Hold is book 1 in An Everlasting Heart series. I began this book when my husband was deployed to Afghanistan again. I took what he was experiencing, researched what the Civil War soldiers had experienced, added those things together with my experiences and tossed them back into the 19 degree came in handy! I based my hero on both my husband and the real Confederate soldier Captain E. A. Adams.

If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be?

I have two main characters, so I will do them both.

Charlotte: Feisty. God-fearing. Loyal. Adventuresome. Idealistic.

Sanderson: Duty-driven. Loyal. Adventuresome. Realistic. Iron-willed.

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?

A Heart on Hold is, as are all the books in An Everlasting Heart series, based in historical fact with elements of adventure, romance, fear, heartbreak, and happiness interwoven to make a real-life portrait in the written word for readers to lose themselves – and be transported back in time. As I told a young lady at my last book signing as she purchased A Heart on Hold; this book is filled with real people who make real mistakes and make real discoveries ... in order to look forward, you must first learn to look back.

Sara Barnard

Bestselling Historical Romance and Children's book author

www.sarabarnardbooks.com

Book Tour: Escaping Darkness

2013-06-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Escaping Darkness She may have spent years in an asylum, but that didn’t make her crazy–just fearless. Dropped in Moscow with her friends on an impossible mission against underworld forces, Tara is left to her feelings of overwhelming inadequacy. Her boyfriend is a healer, her best friend is “the Guardian,” and everyone else is a powerhouse of awesome strengths. The only thing she has been able to contribute are her memories, which has left her with nightmares of her time spent at the mercy of the evil Sarian–who everyone has gone to fight. Alone with her emotions, Tara finds herself falling into a city of depravity and corruption. And amidst all this evil is a young man with an agenda of his own, who leads her down a road that will either prove she is a hero at heart, or drag her into a world she’s always feared. He wants revenge, she wants redemption. And in an underground rings of missing girls and bloody sacrifices, only the fearless can survive…

Amazon

Author Theresa McClinton A long time enthusiast of things that go bump in the night, Theresa started her writing career as a journalism intern—possibly the least creative writing field out there. After her first semester at a local newspaper, she washed her hands of press releases and features articles to delve into the whimsical world of young adult paranormal romance. Since then, Theresa has gotten married, had three terrific kids, moved to central Ohio, and was repeatedly guilt tripped into adopting a menagerie of animals that are now members of the family. But don’t be fooled by her domesticated appearance. Her greatest love is travel. Having stepped foot on the soil of over a dozen countries, traveled to sixteen U.S. states—including an extended seven-year stay in Kodiak, Alaska—she is anything but settled down. But wherever life brings her, she will continue to weave tales of adventure and love with the hope her stories will bring joy and inspiration to her readers.

Website * Twitter * Facebook

Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 6/11/13

a Rafflecopter giveaway

June Sponsors!

2013-06-01T11:00:00.000-05:00

It's another month and that means another set of wonderful sponsors! What a great time to stock up on summer reads!

First up we have Diane Prettyman and her historical romance novel, Redesigning Emma. This one is a great new release!

Next we have Bonnie Blythe once again with her Cascade Brides series, a wonderful set of historical romances from a great author!

Debbie Petersen is with us this month with her brand new release, Spirit of the Revolution. Another great paranormal romance novel you don't want to miss.

Cris Olsen is also back with us with her Christian paranormal romance, Pure Blood. Don't miss out on this one before the next book in the series comes out.

Christy Olesen is also with us again with her contemporary romance novel, Her Scottish CEO. Check it out and enjoy the romance.

Shereen Vedam is our next sponsor with her regency romance novel, A Beastly Scandal. This was a wonderful book you should add to your list.

Up next is Carlene Havel and her Christian romance novel, Daughter of the King. I'm looking forward to reading this author myself.

Tamara Leigh is with us again to celebrate the release of her newest medieval romance, The Redeeming. This is the third in a fabulous series!

Our last sponsor is Jennifer Kitchens and her regency romance novel, A Lady By Any Other Name.

Well, that's it for this month! Thanks to all my wonderful sponsors. I hope everyone has a wonderful start to their summers.

Book Spotlight: Spirit of the Revolution

2013-05-31T07:00:00.000-05:00

Only divine intervention could have guided Jolena Leigh Michaelsson to the doorstep of a ramshackle manor in Pennsylvania, bringing her face-to-face with the man she has waited her whole life to find. There is just one problem. Mathias McGregor died two centuries ago…

Mathias, Revolutionary War ranger and spy, battles his conscience and his heart when he finds himself falling for the beautiful violinist invading his home. Jolena is mortal and deserves far more than what he as a spirit can offer her.

When Jolena’s family motto leads them to unearth a valuable coded message—the very message Mathias died trying to deliver to General Washington—Jolena vows to unravel the mystery surrounding the cryptic document. But someone else wants the message, and he’ll stop at nothing to get it, not even murder.

Divine intervention brought them together—will it also allow them to find forever?

The Redeeming

2013-05-28T07:53:00.000-05:00

Tamara Leigh
Medieval Romance
Christian Romance
Book 3 of Age of Faith Series
The Unveiling, The Yielding, The Redeeming

"Her eyes were brown, large pools of darkness that might warm a man if ever they shone with something other than ire."

Lady Gaenor Wulfrith doesn't want to marry Christian Lavonne. Though her desperate attempts of the past to avoid such a fate have led her family into danger. So despite her preference, she will do what she has to for her family's sake. No matter how many feelings that may be awakened from the stranger at her brother's training camp. She has a duty to do, and a past that hides a sin that could ruin them forever. Christian Lavonne is ready to do his duty and try to fix the havoc wrought by his father and brothers. It helps that Gaenor is much more appealing than he had imagined her to be. But their union is marred by her unwillingness to marry him, and just what she has attempted to do to avoid it. Can they find a way to come together and forgive each other? Or will their pasts always be a barrier to their future?

My Opinion: This was another great chapter in this family epic full of romance and adventure. There were some great twists and turns that kept the story going and the struggle for love, happiness and triumph going through the turn of every page. I loved getting to know Christian and Gaenor better. Their relationship was wonderfully created and the romance was so sweet and fun. The interactions are realistic and interact beautifully with each other. They are amazing characters and fit in well with all the favorite side characters the other books introduced as well as a few new ones. I can't decide who's story I hope will be next. This series is one I definitely recommend.

I received a free copy of this book to review. No other compensation was given. The summary and review are 100% my own.

SMT: Enchanted Cottage

2013-05-25T16:45:00.000-05:00

Enchanted Cottage

Shirley Martin

Fantasy Romance

An evil witch places a curse on Alana, turning the once beautiful woman into an ugly hag. Chased from her village, Alana seeks sanctuary in the dark forest. There she finds a strange cottage and makes her home there.

Demoted and badly wounded in battle, Colin heads home to recover. Along the way, he finds a strange cottage and seeks refuge there.

A woman, marred on the outside, and a man, afflicted on the inside, meet in an isolated cottage. There, they find that they can help each other. And with a bit of magic, miracles can happen.

CLOSED Giveaway!!! Beastly Scandal

2013-05-24T07:58:00.000-05:00

We have another wonderful giveaway for all of you today. Author Shereen Vedam is offering one lucky winner a chance to win a pdf copy of her regency romance, A Beastly Scandal. Don't miss out on this one!

For my summary and review, please click here.

So, how do you enter to win? It's easy! Just use the Rafflecopter form below.

Official Rules: All entrants must be 18 years old or older. This giveaway is open internationally. This giveaway will end at 11:59 pm EST on June 3, 2013. All entries must be submitted before then. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond. If there is no response, a new winner will be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

You Are Mine

2013-05-23T07:52:00.000-05:00

Janeal Falor
Fantasy Romance
Book 1 of Series

"She's always been fascinated by boys. And the girls from class. Basically, any girl who's not me."

Serena's life doesn't hold many options. She is the property of her father, until he can sell her to the highest bidder. Then she'll belong to her husband. Of course, her husband will only be interested in how much magic is in her blood and how many sons she can bear. That's the lot of all women. Isn't it? But when things don't go according to plan, Serena ends up engaged to a barbarian warlock from another country. Who is this man who has won her hand, and yet doesn't act like the domineering men Serena has met all her life? Is it possible that he isn't he barbarian everyone thinks he is? If that's true, perhaps a new world has just opened up to Serena, rather than a life of slavery. But this new world has a price, and it's own set of dangers.

My Opinion: This book draws you into an interesting and complex fantasy world of magic and politics. Each pages draws you deeper into a world that is both intriguing and slightly macabre. Much of the story revolves around Serena and her discoveries and development, rather than the romance. The relationship is there, and though Zade is a great character, their relationship seems to develop on the sidelines without any real action. Much more focus was given on a political and social commentary, rather than a romantic plotline. Zade was a great character, and by the end I liked him much more than I did her. She, though delving into a world she never knew existed, tended to show an immaturity and brash idealism that didn't mature. Overall, it was an interesting book, but not what I expected from this book.

I was given a free copy of this book to review. No other compensation was given. The summary and review are 100% my own.

CLOSED Giveaway!!! Knight of the Dead

2013-05-22T07:58:00.000-05:00

Today we have another giveaway with a chance to win a new book to add to your summer reading list! Author Jennifer Rae Gravely is generously offering TWO lucky winners an e-copy of her contemporary romance, Knight of the Dead.

For Amazon's description, please click here.

So, how do you enter to win? It's easy! Just use the Rafflecopter form below.

Official Rules: All entrants must be 18 years old or older. This giveaway is open internationally. This giveaway will end at 11:59 pm EST on May 30, 2013. All entries must be submitted before then. The winners will be notified via email. They will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author Interview: Adrienne Clark

2013-05-21T07:57:00.000-05:00

Introducing Adrienne Clark, author of To Dance In Liradon

What is your favorite genre to write?

I love writing in the YA genre because it’s a time of such romantic idealism and intensity. For me, this kind of passion is the very essence of YA. Young adulthood is a time of almost limitless hope: The conviction that we can do anything, feel everything, be with anyone. Nothing is beyond our reach.

What is your favorite genre to read?

I love reading different genres depending on what kind of mood I’m in, but my favorites are YA, fantasy, and literary fiction – all preferably with romantic elements.

Do you have a favorite comment or question from a reader?

My favorite comment is from a reader who used a quote from To Dance in Liradon: "You will never forget us, not for the rest of your life,” to explain how she felt about the book. She said: “This quote from the book To Dance in Liradon by Adrienne Clarke sums up my exact feelings after reading this truly wonderful story. From the first page to the last, this book will draw you in and capture your heart forever. The author's writing style & descriptive details will transport you to a world trapped in time and you will fall in love with her characters and their magical story.”

I felt pure happiness when I read that review!

How many books have you written, and how many of those have been published?

I’ve written three books. The first is still in circulation, the second is To Dance in Liradon, and the third I just finished.

Finding the right publishing home for your novel can be a long process, but I do my best to remain hopeful.

What are the elements of a great romance for you?

I’m a very idealistic person, sometimes painfully so, so I’m a big believer in once-in-a-lifetime, all consuming, can’t live without you, true love. That said, as much as I hope for a happy ending in real life, I don’t necessarily look for that in fiction. Some of the most haunting, unforgettable romances are stories of unrequited or lost love. For me, the elements of a great romance are characters you care passionately about, emotions that ring true, and language free of clichés.

If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be?

My main character Brigid is: Romantic, idealistic, loyal, passionate, brave, and beautiful.

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?

Read my book and escape into an enchanted world filled with danger and fairy-tale romance. To Dance in Liradon is also a richly moral tale -- a story about growing up, about the deceitful nature of appearances, and, most importantly, about what it is to be human and to love.

See more about Adrienne....

Website: http://adrienneclarkewriter.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/clarkeadrienne

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/#!/ToDanceInLiradon

SMT: The Samauri's Garden

2013-05-18T07:51:00.000-05:00

The Samauri's Garden

Patricia Kiyono

Historical Romance

Hiro Tanaka prepared for a life as a samurai warrior. But his world changed when Japan's emperor abolished the feudal system. Now, he must find a new vocation. Disillusioned with fighting and violence, he travels alone, going north to the island of Hokkaido. Many other samurai wander through the country and are known as ronin. Some have forsaken their honorable way to prey on the less fortunate.

Hanako Shimizu experienced first-hand the devastation caused by these disreputable wanderers. The previous winter, they raided her farm and killed her husband. Now, she needs to rebuild but has no money and no prospects – except for the dubious intentions of the town merchant.

When Hiro, tired of his wandering, encounters Hanako in the market, arguing with the merchant, he poses as her late husband’s cousin then offers to help her on the farm in exchange for a place to stay. Working on the land, Hiro finally finds the peace he has been seeking. But the reappearance of the rogue ronin, led by an unscrupulous leader from Hiro’s past, forces him to take up his swords again. But now, the stakes are higher.

This time, he's fighting from the heart.

Author Interview: Jennifer Gravely

2013-05-16T07:10:00.000-05:00

Give us a bit of your background (where are you from, your family, traveling adventures)

Born in Ohio but raised in Pickens, SC, I graduated from Converse College with a triple major in history, politics, and English before earning my Masters in Education. A sports enthusiast, I returned to my high school alma mater to teach English and coach volleyball, winning four state championships and six upper state titles in ten years. I live with my husband, daughter, eight beagles, and two cats. Knight of the Dead is my first published novel.

Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go?

England, both to London and to the Lake District. Just something wildly romantic about the setting.

What is one silly fact about you?

You’d probably be able to tell if you met me more than once, but I love to change my hair color, and I mean drastically. From blond to a deep red mahogany, and even to an orange creamcicle color—sigh— I found myself with this last summer. Thus, my heroines tend to have the flavor of the season too. For instance, Persephone, from Knight of the Dead, has long, wavy deep red mahogany hair to match my color last winter when I was writing the romantic suspense. When I started working on my volleyball romance this past fall, I was a brunette; thus, my newest heroine Randi has the same light brown color.

What got you started on your writing journey?

I’ve always loved words. As a child, I earned the nicknames motor-mouth and jabber jaws for my love of talking and telling stories. Later, as an avid reader, I wrote mainly to analyze. I viewed life in terms of paper topics! Still, I played with writing short stories and poetry. Then life took over—I became a wife, mother, teacher, and coach—and even though I continued to read, I rarely wrote anything creatively.

About ten years ago, some teacher friends and I were talking about books and decided to try to write our own. One friend found her groove with the challenge, and has had numerous novels published. I spent years on two connected novels, both still looking for the right home. However, at the encouragement of my friend, I tried once again to write a romance. I choose the name Persephone for my heroine in Knight of the Dead because I teach mythology, and used the tale as a springboard.

What other things do you have planned with your writing for the rest of the year 2013?

I’m working on a contemporary volleyball romance that I hope to finish by spring break. Here’s the premise: Bad decisions make great stories. Recently appointed girls’ volleyball coach at Keowee High School, Randi Sly spends the night with rival coach Blake Steele because she gets sick from drinking too much wine. Pressure builds, rumors swirling about their relationship as the two coaches battle for the State crown. Will Randi win the championship eluding her since playing for Keowee ten years ago, or will she win the heart of the handsome coach from Saluda instead?

In addition, I hope to find a publisher for my Drown series before the end of the year.

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

In Knight of the Dead, Persephone and Mark both like basketball, and I live for sports. However, Persephone’s propensity for accidents kept her from participating, whereas I lettered in three sports in high school and played volleyball in college with zero trips to the emergency room in my career as an athlete. Also like Persephone, I waited tables before returning for my teaching certification. And who doesn’t need money!

Obviously in my current work in progress, my coaching experience comes into play—at least in the game scenes and conversations.

Please share about your book

Knight of the Dead: Persephone Richards is in a pinch. With a wrecked car and bills stacking up, the income from her job at the daycare isn’t enough. Mark Lawrence needs a sitter for his little girl and Persephone is perfect for the job. What begins as an employment opportunity leads to romance. However, a secret Persephone hides threatens the happy ever after and puts the three of them in danger.

If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be?

Persephone: Beautiful, fiery, clumsy, Southern, charming

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?

Persephone and Mark meet at the perfect time in their lives, when they both need and desire what the other can offer. The complications to their love story only enhance the fulfillment at the end.

Do you have a favorite character you have written so far?

I love Mark’s four-year old daughter Rose. She reminds me so much of my daughter at that age.

Thanks for being with us, Jennifer!

Tell All

2013-05-14T07:05:00.000-05:00

Nell Carson
Contemporary Romance

"Had she been robbed? And by a freshly after-shaved burglar?"

Kat Callahan is hours from finishing her first published book - a tell-all about a famous Hollywood couple with a secret. It's not what she really wants to do, but you do what you have to do in this business. When her laptop gets a virus, destroying her manuscript, she can say good-bye to her much needed vacation. Too bad the man she's supposed to trade vacation homes with is already here - in her apartment. Now, she has to find a way to live with this distractedly charming man, while fixing the fiasco of her manuscript before her new deadline. Luke Janssen is prepared to do anything to stop the book about his brother and sister-in-law being published. Including lying to the beautiful Kat Callahan and sabotaging her writing efforts. But things get sticky when he starts to fall for her. Now he has two secrets to protect - both of which could ruin his chances with her forever.

My Opinion: This was a fun read with more depth to the characters and plot than you'd expect. There was great build up to the story as the characters grew closer. The romance was fun and sweet and wonderful. There was, however, a bit of sad back story that never seemed to resolve itself or come to a happy conclusion - just left to move on from. The mystery had some good suspense, though I had figured much of it out before I think I was supposed to. It was a good story, though, with characters I enjoyed. A few long time period spaces made the end a bit choppy, but overall I was happy with the book.

I received a free copy of this book to review. No other compensation was given. The summary and review are 100% my own.

CLOSED Giveaway!!! Hidden in the Heart

2013-05-13T07:08:00.000-05:00

Today we have another great giveaway for all of you. To celebrate her novel being available in audio format, author Roseanne Wilkins is offering one of my lucky readers a paperback version of her book, Hidden in the Heart.

For my summary and review, please click here.

So, how do you enter to win? It's easy! Just use the Rafflecopter form below.

Official Rules: All entrants must be 18 years old or older. This giveaway is open to US mailing addresses only. This giveaway will end at 11:59 pm EST on May 22, 2013. All entries must be submitted before then. The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond. If there is no response, a new winner will be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SMT: Eternal Mercury

2013-05-11T07:06:00.000-05:00

Eternal Mercury

Elaine Pinter

Young Adult Romance

Can true love survive the boundaries of death?

Eighteen-year-old Chelsee Taylor has been in love with her boyfriend, Max, since they started kindergarten together. She has no idea that high school graduation will be the last perfect day of her life. After a deadly car accident, Chelsee refuses to accept Max's death because she can still feel his presence. No one believes her and she is completely alone. Until Blake Andersen shows up. It's not just that he believes her . . . or even just that he's so understanding . . . . But why is Max's presence so strong when she's with Blake?

Eternal Mercury is two books in one. Book 1, Chelsee's Story, is bittersweet and moving, while Book 2, Blake's Story, is gritty and inspirational.

Baby Ad Space Sale!!!

2013-05-10T07:09:00.000-05:00

As some of you may know, and those who don't, in June I'm expecting a new addition to my family. :) As such, I will be off-line for part of June. Which is great news to all of you authors and publishers! Why, do you ask? Because to celebrate, I am having a Banner Ad Sale to celebrate my new little bundle of joy! If you order between now and May 20th, you will get either a June AND a July banner ad, or a July and August banner ad, for a total of just $45!!! (That's normally $60.) That's a great deal!

If you're interested, send me an email at: englishrosereviews@gmail.com and let me know so we can get everything set up. You must email me by May 20th and all monies, images, and links must be sent to me by May 30th. So, come celebrate with me with a great sale!

Author Interview: Sue Gibson

2013-05-08T07:08:00.000-05:00

Give us a bit of your background (where are you from, your family, traveling adventures)

I grew up on a farm in Ontario, Canada. I have five sisters! I have to give credit to my mother for hooking me on reading. The entire family visited the local library every Friday night. I was one of those that didn’t know what I wanted to be when I grew up, so I majored in Business in college and didn’t start writing (for publication) until I was in my twenties.

Fill in the blank favorites - Type of hero. Type of heroine.

I prefer a Beta hero. The big tough Alpha males don’t appear in my books. They have to be strong and supportive, but not completely terrified by their emotions.

Heroines should be independent, interesting women. If they’re funny and quirky, even better.

Say your publisher has offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming book, where would you most likely want to go?

Of course, books have influenced everything in my life, including my dream locations to visit. Take me to Ireland, please.

What is one silly fact about you?

Me Before You by JoJo Moyes and A Week in Winter by Mauve Binchy.

What got you started on your writing journey?

My mother, she read to me, opening up the world of books. My first writing group consisted of three other struggling writers. We bumbled along for several years, helping one another gain the confidence to try to publish. The second writer’s group was a chapter of RWA and they helped me network and understand both the technique of writing and the business of writing.

Do you have a favorite comment or question from a reader?

My series is set on a fictional lake in Ontario. My family and I spend a lot of time on the local small lakes, so Loon Lake in my book is a compilation of all of these lakes. Many of my readers tell me that they are sure that they have been to my fictional lake. That’s how I know that I got it right!

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

Quite a bit actually. Like many authors, I write what I know. My daughter tells me that books “sound” like me.

Where do your ideas come from?

Ideas are everywhere, every conversation, every newspaper, every shopping mall, every forest… You get the picture.

How many books have you written, and how many of those have been published?

I’ve got three under the bed and two published, one in the pipeline, and two that I’m currently working on.

If you could sum your main character into five words, what would they be?

Loyal, committed, loving, gentle, independent

Use no more than two sentences. Why should we read your book?

My books take you to Ontario’s gorgeous cottage-country, true escapism. I write sweet, emotional romance and who doesn’t need more of that in their life?

Do you have a favorite character you have written so far?

Actually, a secondary character, Flo, is a blast to write. I’m thinking, she may need a book of her own someday.

Check out more about Sue at any of her links!

http://www.facebook.com/suitestoriesww.suegibson.ca
http://twitter.com/suegibsonwrites
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1691309.Sue_Gibson

Speaking of Love

2013-05-07T07:38:00.000-05:00

Ophelia London
Contemporary Romance

"Plus, if he did what he felt like doing to her, it would smudge her makeup."

Mackenzie Simms and Rick Duffy come from different worlds. An outspoken, community rights defender and school teacher with a reporter turned millionaire tycoon - they couldn't be more different. But, they happen to be just what each other needs - an easy go-to date with no strings attached. But when Mackenzie starts to want those strings, she decides it's time to find someone else for Rick. She could never fit into his world, even if it weren't for the history between their fathers. Rick decides to go along with a double date set up, though he doesn't know why Mackenzie seems so set on a change. Because as they spend more time together, he finds he doesn't want anyone else. Does he?

My Opinion: I felt that though this book had some fun scenes, it was missing a real strength to its plot. I found myself a little annoyed at both main characters for their immaturity, seeing little legitimacy in what was keeping them apart. Their romance was a little borderline in its intensity on the page. The few side characters were shallow and barely there, just enough to foil the main characters when needed. Overall it was a predictable romp with some hot and heavy kissing and not too much else.

I received a free copy of this book to review. No other compensation was given. The summary and review are 100% my own.