* Blog Tour / Book Review * GIRL IN THE SPOTLIGHT by Virginia McCullough

June 11, 2017 10 Comments

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * GIRL IN THE SPOTLIGHT by Virginia McCulloughGirl in the Spotlight by Virginia McCullough
Published by Harlequin Heartwarming on June 1, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
four-half-stars

The daughter they never knew

When Miles Jenkins sees the graceful young figure skater on TV, he can't believe how much she resembles Lark McGee, the girl he dated briefly in college. Could this aspiring star be the child Lark gave up for adoption eighteen years ago? He has to find out.

Locating Lark ignites conflicting emotions in Miles—including regrets for what might have been and romantic feelings that take the two single parents by surprise. As they prepare to meet their daughter, this deeper connection between the two just might be the chance at love they never got.


The meaning of a second chance is personified in Virginia McCullough’s debut Harlequin Heartwarming novel! A yearning … pushed to the wayside. A connection … born, yet not developed. Regret … a daily reminder. Could she truly have a second chance with the daughter she gave away? Is it possible for him to even realize the amount of hope he’s handed her? In this story, we meet a couple who made the young sacrifice to give their child up for adoption, then went their separate ways and developed their own lives after college. We hear the ups and downs of their lives, feel the weight of past decisions and watch them reach their grown up potential before our very eyes. The characters are well developed, their story is well thought out and leads us into the turmoil they are feeling from the first chapter. Ideally I would have wanted the ending to happen earlier in the book so we could have seen a little more of what happened after such a build-up, but overall, a great read and a satisfying resolution!

Happenstance brings a young skater to Miles Jenkins attention. She’s beautiful with coloring similar to his, yet with a grace and familiar attributes that remind him of a girl long ago. Tidbits of her life being talked about by the commentators make him wonder … that face makes him unable to not act … the heaviness in his heart has him reaching out to the one person who will understand.

Lark McGee can’t believe she’s getting a call from Miles after all this time. Is he remembering what day it is too? Hearing his voice and the story he has to tell her is life changing! Meeting up with him again … sharing memories … discussing where life took them … sharing a yearning of what might be. Can life be rewritten when you meet the person at the wrong time once, but the right time later? Can this connection they are feeling be real?

 

 

 


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Girl in the Spotlight
by Virginia McCullough
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
June 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The daughter they never knew

When Miles Jenkins sees the graceful young figure skater on TV, he can’t believe how much she resembles Lark McGee, the girl he dated briefly in college. Could this aspiring star be the child Lark gave up for adoption eighteen years ago? He has to find out.

Locating Lark ignites conflicting emotions in Miles—including regrets for what might have been and romantic feelings that take the two single parents by surprise. As they prepare to meet their daughter, this deeper connection between the two just might be the chance at love they never got.

Advanced Praise

Mesmerized by the real world of characters–brought to life beautifully, I found myself entranced by this thoughtful, delightful, sad, and joyous, novel about second chances and all forms of love. The situation, characters, and consequences left me shedding happy tears at the ending. — Casey Clifford, award-winning author

A compelling love story crafted with characters you’ll fall in love with. Miles and Lark’s journey to be reunited with their child captured my heart, as did their blossoming romance. The best book I have read this year! —Lily Silver, author of Dark Hero

McCullough is always adept at creating suspense on multiple levels. In Girl in the Spotlight, the intrigue builds from page one and doesn’t let up until the end. But she understands that readers need relief from tension, and through her masterful storytelling and perfect pacing, McCullough delivers satisfying outcomes along that way. The relationships she’s developed are complex and realistic, and their evolution is deeply satisfying. — Lynda McDaniel, author of A Life for a Life

Girl in the Spotlight swept me away to Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan shore and reminded me of loves left behind. McCullough invokes deep emotions through her writing, which will pull at your heart. More than a romantic love story, it is a love story of parents for their children. A must read.”  — Anne Parent, author/reviewer

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

About the Author

A writer all her adult life, Virginia McCullough has had the opportunity to write the stories of her heart in her novels, including Girl in the Spotlight, the first book in her Two Moon Bay series for Harlequin Heartwarming. (Book 2 is scheduled for release in January 2018). Her award-winning romance and women’s fiction titles include The Jacks of Her Heart, Amber Light, Greta’s Grace, The Chapels on the Hill, and Island Healing.

Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.

Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter

Tour Schedule

June 5th: Launch
June 6th:
Hardcover Feedback
Katie’s Clean Book Collection
RANDIE2436
Christian Suspense Author Mary Alford
June 7th:
Book Lover in Florida
Reading Is My SuperPower
Nicole’s Book Musings
Inside the Mind of an Avid Reader
Becky on Books
June 8th:
Rockin’ Book Review
Mel’s Shelves
A Baker’s Perspective
Harlie’s Books
June 9th:
It’s All About the Romance
Hearts & Scribbles
The Bookworm Chronicles
June 11th:
I Am A Reader
Valerie J. Clarizio, Romance Author
Thoughts of a Blonde
Sylv.net
June 12th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

1st Prize (US only): Tea & Contemplation, a collection of favorite things, starts with an uplifting message from “Seize the Day” Pop Open Cards. Fill a ceramic thermal mug to sip Lavender Chamomile Tea while you contemplate your ideas and dreams. Write your thoughts in a journal, whose guiding words are: When Your Heart Speaks… take good notes! A Wish pen is included. Finally, pick a place to display a large piece of gemmy rose quartz, a stone long linked to matters of the heart. It’s said when rose quartz is nearby, love (of all kinds) comes along to keep it company. These items will be arranged in a “keeper box” and delivered to your door.

2nd Prize (open internationally): You will receive a $35.00 Amazon eGift Card, and a digital copy of GIRL IN THE SPOTLIGHT, plus one digital copy of another of Virginia’s five award-winning novels—it’s your choice.

Ends June 16th

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four-half-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Review * KILLER COWBOY by Carla Cassidy

June 9, 2017 Leave a Comment
* Review * KILLER COWBOY by Carla CassidyKiller Cowboy by Carla Cassidy
Series: Cowboys of Holiday Ranch
Published by Harlequin Romantic Suspense on June 1, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
four-half-stars

For Cassie Peterson, finding out her new ranch was the site of a cold case is horrifying. But now one of her cowboys has been murdered, just like the previous victims! Cassie will do whatever it takes to help Chief of Police Dillon Bowie find the killer, but will getting close to the handsome lawman put more than her home at risk?

Dillon’s been working hard to crack the original case—and keep feisty Cassie out of his thoughts. But when disturbing new clues prove the murderer is obsessed with Cassie, Dillon will tempt fate to guard the beauty and solve a terrifying mystery.


Intrigue abounds as we return to the Cowboys of Holiday Ranch series with Carla Cassidy! We are drawn in quickly as incidents start to happen around the ranch to draw attention to the crimes that have occurred there. The plot is fast paced, thick with mystery and disturbingly raw as we get inside the mind of the person who left demise in their wake.

Cassie Peterson was horrified when they discovered her newly inherited ranch was the site of a multiple-murder cold case, but nothing can terrify her more than realizing one of her ranch hands has just been killed … in the same fashion as the original crimes!

Police chief Dillon Bowie has been interested in Cassie from afar ever since she came to town, but he wasn’t looking to get too close to the city girl. His history in the past with a headstrong dreamer wasn’t a good one, so he’s quick to push his interest aside … until things start happening to her. He will do anything to protect her from the danger closing in!

four-half-stars
Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Blog Tour / Book Review * THE MAN SHE KNEW by Loree Lough

June 8, 2017 7 Comments

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * THE MAN SHE KNEW by Loree LoughThe Man She Knew by Loree Lough
Series: By Way of the Lighthouse
Published by Harlequin Heartwarming on June 1, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
five-stars

Don't they both deserve a second chance?

Fourteen years ago, one reckless act cost Ian Sylvestry everything, including the girl he planned to marry. Since then, he has fought hard to turn his life around. Returning to his Baltimore town after serving a prison term was the first step. Winning back Maleah Turner's trust is a far more daunting challenge. From their first sparks-flying reunion, it's obvious they still have powerful feelings for each other. In fact, they might be even stronger together now. But if their second chance is going to work, Maleah has to believe that Ian is a changed man. She really wants to believe…but she simply isn't convinced.


Redemption, turmoil and undying love are brought to life in Loree Lough’s latest release! We meet Ian, a tarnished man who has gone to great lengths to turn his life around and is such a joy to grow to adore throughout the book. The heroine however, is not easy to love. She’s a kind and generous soul to everyone else, but to him, she’s self-righteous and hurtful. In the end, we have to find forgiveness in our heart as well as we make our way through the story towards that happily-ever-after and realize that for all these years, she felt hurt, abandoned and torn between various loves. She wasn’t always strong enough to stand up for what she felt, but in the end she finally realized he was worth it!

Fourteen years ago as a rebellious teen, Ian Sylvestry made one stupid mistake that he couldn’t take back. After spending a decade in prison, he has worked hard to turn into the man he truly wants to be. He’s kind, he’s generous, he’s good-hearted … and a day doesn’t go by when he doesn’t think about the love of his life that his mistake cost him.

Maleah Turner made it all too clear that she wanted nothing more to do with the likes of Ian when she returned all of his letters and told him to stop contacting her. She has gone on to live a productive life and is happy … or at least as happy as she has ever allowed herself to be. When she runs into him years after his release, she can’t believe how much he’s changed. When she gets stuck working with him on a charity project, she’s not happy.  He seems so different … but how can she trust him again?

 

 

 

 


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Man She Knew
(By Way of the Lighthouse, #1)
by Loree Lough
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
June 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Don’t they both deserve a second chance?

Fourteen years ago, one reckless act cost Ian Sylvestry everything, including the girl he planned to marry. Since then, he has fought hard to turn his life around. Returning to his Baltimore town after serving a prison term was the first step. Winning back Maleah Turner’s trust is a far more daunting challenge. From their first sparks-flying reunion, it’s obvious they still have powerful feelings for each other. In fact, they might be even stronger together now. But if their second chance is going to work, Maleah has to believe that Ian is a changed man. She really wants to believe…but she simply isn’t convinced.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Bestselling author LOREE LOUGH once sang for her supper, performing across the U.S. and Canada. Now and then, she blows the dust from her 6-string to croon a tune or two, but mostly, she writes novels that have earned hundreds of industry and “Readers’ Choice” awards, 4- and 5-star reviews, and 7 book-to-movie options. The Man She Knew, #1 in her “By Way of the Lighthouse” series, her 3rd for Harlequin Heartwarming, is available at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and Harlequin.com.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

Tour Giveaway

– Two winners will receive a $10 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
– Two winners will receive an ebook of THE MAN SHE KNEW (open internationally)
– Two winners will receive a print copy of THE MAN SHE KNEW (US only)
– Ends June 13th

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five-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Blog Tour / Book Review * FALLING FOR THE RIGHT BROTHER by Kerri Carpenter

June 8, 2017 5 Comments

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * FALLING FOR THE RIGHT BROTHER by Kerri CarpenterFalling for the Right Brother by Kerri Carpenter
Series: Saved by the Blog
Published by Harlequin Special Edition on June 1, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
four-stars

Saved by the blog!

This just in, fair readers! Chic and stunning, that gorgeous new woman about town is none other than our very own little Ellie—now Elle—Owens. She's a far cry from the frumpy, bookish student we used to know, but then, living in Italy will do that to a girl! Still, this blogger can't forget the infamous video that caused her to leave!

Apparently Miss Elle has been spotted with yummy contractor Cam Dumont…but we thought her heart belonged to his little brother. Are Cam and Elle a new couple? They were seen cooling their passions in the bay…in April! If this is love, let's hope she's swimming with the right brother. The Bayside Blogger will keep you posted.


Who says you can’t go home again? In the kick off of Kerri Carpenter’s “Saved by the Blog” series, we meet a hometown girl trying to redeem her reputation and finding love when she least expects it! The town is cozy and the characters are fun to spend time with. Looking forward to reading more of the series!

Elle Owens is back home in Bayside, Virginia after years of living in Italy pursuing her art career. She left all those years ago utterly humiliated over high school drama, and now the busybody town blogger is stirring it all up again. She can’t catch a break!

Cameron Dumont is the older brother of the guy she crushed on in high school, and while she should be steering clear of the whole family amidst all this gossip, she can’t resist the pull Cams seems to have on her. He’s really easy to talk to and super sweet. Was she lusting after the wrong brother all this time?

 

 

 

 

Falling for the Right Brother
Saved by the Blog #1

By: Kerri Carpenter

Released June 1, 2017
Harlequin

 

 

BLURB:

Saved by the blog!

This just in, fair readers! Chic and stunning, that gorgeous new woman about town is none other than our very own little Ellie—now Elle—Owens. She’s a far cry from the frumpy, bookish student we used to know, but then, living in Italy will do that to a girl! Still, this blogger can’t forget the infamous video that caused her to leave!

Apparently Miss Elle has been spotted with yummy contractor Cam Dumont…but we thought her heart belonged to his little brother. Are Cam and Elle a new couple? They were seen cooling their passions in the bay…in April! If this is love, let’s hope she’s swimming with the right brother. The Bayside Blogger will keep you posted.

Buy Links:      AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO

 

Link to Follow Tour:  http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/falling-right-brother-kerri-carpenter

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33413494-falling-for-the-right-brother

 

 

 

He liked being around Elle. Most women wanted to talk about their feelings. Not that there was anything wrong with that when it was needed. But there was a lot to be said for enjoying a quiet moment.

Plus, she could hold her own with him.

And she could cook.

And she was gorgeous.

Sneaking a glance at her, he felt his heart practically stop. She’d let her hair out of its ponytail. Now the wind was moving through it, light brown strands flying around her face. The setting sun cast an aura over her that highlighted her smooth skin. Awash in light, with a dreamy expression on her face, she looked serene, calm. Exquisite.

Exquisite? Ah, hell. He liked her.

“Damn.”

She turned her head at his oath. “What was that?” she asked, an amused expression on her face.

He couldn’t like her. Not if she had any feelings for his brother. That wouldn’t be right.

All he wanted to do was kiss her. With his body tensed and primed at her nearness, he desperately wanted to draw her to him. He wanted those lips on his, those arms around him.

“Cam?”

He met her curious gaze. Why couldn’t she be weird or crazy or just not his type?

“What are you thinking?” she wondered aloud.

“Do you still have feelings for my brother?” he blurted. Idiot. Her face fell and then he cursed himself for that. “Sorry, it’s none of my business.”

“It’s okay,” she said, waving her hand. “Jasper…I never really knew Jasper.”

“You were in the same class.” It sounded like an accusation.

“That doesn’t mean anything.,” she said slowly, taking a step toward him. “Dinner last night was the longest we’ve ever talked.”

It hit Cam then, crystal clear. Jealousy over that dinner was what had been bothering him all day. What had kept him awake the night before.

Feeling irritated even now, he wanted to pace. But she was standing so close. He could smell her perfume, a flowery scent that mixed with the aromas from the kitchen. Shouldn’t go together, but to him, it was intoxicating.

“Look, Elle, just tell me, once and for all, do you have feelings for my brother?”

“No,” she practically screamed. “And for the record, I would never go after someone who was taken.”

“Great. I don’t want you to do that.”

“Then what do you want, Cam?”

“I want to kiss you.”

“So kiss me.”

 

 

 

AUTHOR INFO:

Award-winning romance author Kerri Carpenter writes contemporary romances that are sweet, sexy, and sparkly. When she’s not writing, Kerri enjoys reading, cooking, watching movies, taking Zumba classes, rooting for Pittsburgh sports teams, and anything sparkly. Kerri lives in Northern Virginia with her adorable (and mischievous) rescued poodle mix, Harry. Visit Kerri at her website, on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram, or subscribe to her newsletter.


Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

 

 

 

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:

Win a $50.00 Amazon Gift Card; Two Additional winners will receive a print copy of FALLING FOR THE RIGHT BROTHER
a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Describe yourself in five words or less.

I can do this in just one little word: sparkly!

Can you tell us a little about your book?

The Saved by the Blog series is about a small town on the Chesapeake Bay called Bayside. As small towns tend to do, Bayside is prone to gossip and rumors. They have a gossip blogger called the Bayside Blogger who writes for the local paper and reports every detail on every person in town.

Falling for the Right Brother is the first book in the three-part series. It’s a combination of Sabrina and Gossip Girl, with a little Saved by the Bell thrown in for fun. This is the story of Elle Owens, who was desperately in love with Jasper Dumont when she was growing up in Bayside, Virginia. After an embarrassing incident of professing her love for Jasper was caught on video, Elle hightailed it to Italy. When she returns to Bayside ten years later, it’s Jasper’s older brother Cam who catches Elle’s eye. Unfortunately, all of this happens under the watchful eye of the ubiquitous Bayside Blogger.

Name three things on your desk right now.

Not just right now, but pretty much at all times, I have my phone. I love listening to music while I work, so I either pull up a playlist I made, an album or listen to the radio through an app. I always have water because I’m a water-holic. And I typically have Post-it notes or some kind of paper because I’m constantly making lists (for my real life) and scribbling notes (for my writing life).

If you could have dinner with any three authors (alive or dead), who would you choose and why?

Jill Shalvis, because I’m a total fan girl. I love, love, love her books. Plus, based on her social media and newsletter, I think she’d be really fun to hang with.

Jane Austen, because I adore her books. I also consider her to be the first great chick lit writer and I want to ask her about some of the remakes/homages to her books like Clueless and Bridget Jones’s Diary. I think she would love them.

JK Rowling, because I’m a huge fan of Harry Potter and her world-building ability. Also, whenever I’m having a bad writing time, I re-watch the interview she did with Oprah for the millionth time. Her description of depression is so spot-on that it actually helped me deal with my own issues.

Where did the inspiration for this book come from?

I was walking my dog, Harry, one afternoon and the idea for Falling for the Right Brother popped into my head. I could see the town of Bayside, Elle and Cam, everything, so clearly. I remember very distinctly having the thought: This is like Sabrina and Gossip Girl. It was strange because I hadn’t seen either in years. I thought about the story the entire time I was walking Harry and as soon as I got home, I started writing it.

Do you have any advice to give to aspiring writers?

  1. Join a writer’s group and hang out with like-minded people. Learn the craft, take classes, talk to writers who are in a position you’d like to emulate.
  2. Get friends who are not writers, will never be writers and have nothing to do with the writing world. They will keep you grounded.
  3. Invest in a crock-pot. Trust me on this one. The time you save in the kitchen can translate to many words written.
  4. Exercise!
  5. Learn how to say this incredibly difficult, yet incredibly small word: NO.
  6. Learn how to say YES. Yes, I will finish this book. Yes, I will submit it to publishers and/or agents. Yes, I will enter this contest.
  7. Never. Give. Up.

Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

 

 

 

Hi everyone! I have a new book out called Falling for the Right Brother, which is the first book in my new Saved by the Blog series for Harlequin Special Edition. In the series, there is a gossip blogger who is dogging everyone in the small town of Bayside. What better way to learn more about this book series than to interview the person at the heart of it all. Welcome the Bayside Blogger!

 

Kerri: Thanks for joining us. Any chance you’ll tell us who you are?

Bayside Blogger: Pfffaw. No way! Reveal my biggest secret? Not even my favorite little gossip birdies know who I am. You’re crazy, Carpenter.

Kerri: Fine. Why don’t you tell us a little bit about this new Saved by the Blog series?

Bayside Blogger: Well, rumor has it that Nora Roberts-wannabe, Kerri Carpenter, has created a contemporary romance series for Harlequin. I believe she describes it as a combination of Sabrina and Gossip Girl, with a little Saved by the Bell thrown in for fun. *Snort* Your addiction to that silly little Saturday morning teen show is redonk.

Kerri: Excuse me! Saved by the Bell is the greatest show ever to air on television! That’s why I named the town in my series Bayside.

Bayside Blogger: You mean you stole the name.

Kerri: It’s an homage.

Bayside Blogger: Keep telling yourself that.

Kerri: Anyway…Would you like to tell us about your most recent victims?

Bayside Blogger: Victims? Are you serious? Fine, fine. But it’s not my fault if such a juicy little tidbit fell right in my lap. You’ll never guess who returned to Bayside after living in Italy for the last ten years? Little Ellie Owens, that’s who! Remember how she used to be shy and reserved and a total nerd? Well, at least, until she made that scandalous video about being in love with Jasper Dumont.

Kerri: Maybe she has a shot with Jasper now that’s she back in town.

Bayside Blogger: *Eye roll* You are so naïve, Carpenter. Anyway, seems like Jasper’s older brother, the mysterious, yet totally sexy, Cam Dumont has caught Ellie’s eye. In fact, Cam seems quite besotted with Ellie—who likes to go by Elle now, btw. Looks like Elle is no longer the ugly duckling. She turned into quite the beautiful swan. And where do swans like to hang out? In the water.

Kerri: What does that mean?

Bayside Blogger: Let’s just say that Twitter was exploding the night Elle ended up in the Chesapeake Bay. Hmm, guess which Dumont brother fished her out? You know I’ll never tell. *Grin*

Kerri: Anything else you care to share?

Bayside Blogger: Well, I’m not one to spread gossip but…I will say that pseudo-Danielle Steel over there DID write one heck of a fun, happy, and as she would say, sparkly book. That’s right, Dear Readers, you heard it here first. Stay tuned for more from your favorite Bayside Blogger….

four-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Blog Tour / Book Review * HIS ACCIDENTAL HEIR by Joanne Rock

June 7, 2017 3 Comments

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * HIS ACCIDENTAL HEIR by Joanne RockHis Accidental Heir by Joanne Rock
Series: The McNeill Magnates
Published by Harlequin Desire on June 1, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
five-stars

The Boss's Baby Bargain

When resort developer Cameron McNeill goes undercover to root out problems at his prized island property, his first discovery is the irresistible concierge, Maresa Delphine. Her business smarts are vital to his mission. But the struggling single mom could help with his personal mission, too: fulfilling the marriage terms of his grandfather's will.

Maresa is overwhelmed caring for her infant niece and tending to the demands of the resort's sexy mystery guest. When he reveals himself as the owner, she's thrown for a loop. But when he proposes…can she resist his brand of trouble in paradise?


Feel-good romance at it’s best! The McNeill brothers are strong, powerful and take-charge kind of guys … but they are falling hard and becoming teddy bears as love crosses each of their paths! We saw Cameron heading out on a tear in the first book in the series, and now it’s finally his story. A sexy bachelor with a heart of gold reaches out to help a wounded soul. Looking forward to seeing what happens when more family is brought into the series!

When Cameron McNeill goes in undercover as a demanding guest at the latest McNeill Resorts acquisition in the Caribbean, he just plans to find out what is making their customer satisfaction scores go down lately. He doesn’t expect to fall under the spell of the lovely concierge Maresa Delphine, but he can’t deny his attraction to her … but first and foremost, he needs her help!

Maresa is dealing with one thing after another with her ailing family, and she’s just been handed an infant to raise on top of everything else. She is overwhelmed to say the least. When Cameron offers her a way to make ends meet more easily while progressing the health of those around her, how can she refuse … even if it does require becoming his bride for a year!

 

 

 

 

 

His Accidental Heir
A Billionaires and Babies Romance

By: Joanne Rock

Releasing June 6, 2017
Harlequin Desire

 

 

BLURB:

The Boss’s Baby Bargain

When resort developer Cameron McNeill goes undercover to root out problems at his prized island property, his first discovery is the irresistible concierge, Maresa Delphine. Her business smarts are vital to his mission. But the struggling single mom could help with his personal mission, too: fulfilling the marriage terms of his grandfather’s will.

Maresa is overwhelmed caring for her infant niece and tending to the demands of the resort’s sexy mystery guest. When he reveals himself as the owner, she’s thrown for a loop. But when he proposes…can she resist his brand of trouble in paradise?

Buy Links:      AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO

 

Link to Follow Tour:  http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/his-accidental-heir-joanne-rock

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33413518-his-accidental-heir

 

 

EXCERPT:

She appreciated the cooler breeze on her overheated skin, and the light mist of rain blowing in with it. Only now did she realize the strap of her sundress had fallen off one shoulder, the bodice slipping precariously down on one side. Before she could reach for it, however, Cameron slid a finger under the errant strap and lifted it into place.

Her skin hummed with pleasure where he touched her.

“Sorry.” He slid his hand away fast. “The bare shoulder was…” He shook his head. “I get distracted around you, Maresa. More than I should when I know you want to keep things professional.”

The room was mostly dark, except for a glow from the last light of day combined with a golden halo around a wall sconce near the bathroom. He must have turned that on when he’d entered the master suite and found her sleeping.

Dreaming.

“What about you?” Her voice carried the sultriness of sleep. Or maybe it was the sound of desire from her sexy imaginings. Even now, she could swear she remembered the feel of his strong thigh between hers, his chest pressed to aching breasts. “I can’t be the only one who wants to keep some professional objectivity.”

She slid her feet to the floor, needing to restore some equilibrium with him. Some distance. They sat on opposite sides of the chaise longue, the gathering storm stirring electricity in the air.

“Honestly?” A flash of lightning illuminated his face in full color for a moment before returning them to black-and-white. “I would rather abdicate my role as boss where you’re concerned, Maresa. Let my brother Quinn make any decisions that involve you or Rafe. My professional judgment is already seriously compromised.”

She breathed in the salty, charged air. Her hair blew silky caresses along her cheek. The gathering damp sat on her skin and she knew he must feel it, too. She was seized with the urge to lean across the chaise and lick him to find out for sure. If she could choose her spot, she’d pick the place just below his steely jaw.

“I don’t understand.” She shook her head, not following what he was saying. She was still half in dreamland, her whole body conspiring against logic and reason. Rebelling against all her workplace ethics. “We haven’t done anything wrong.”

Much. They’d talked about a kiss. But there hadn’t been one.

His eyes swept her body with unmistakable want.

“Not yet. But I think you know how much I want to.” He didn’t touch her. He didn’t need to.

Her skin was on fire just thinking about it.

“What would your brother think of me if he knew we…” Images of her body twined together with this incredibly sexy man threatened to steal the last of her defenses. “How could he be impartial?”

Another flash of lightning revealed Cam in all his masculine deliciousness. His shirt was open at the collar, just the way it had been in her dream. Except now, his shirt was damp with raindrops, making the pale cotton cling like a second skin.

Cameron watched her steadily, his intense gaze as stirring as any caress. “You know the way you have faith in your brother’s good heart and good intentions? No matter what?”

She nodded. “Without question.”

“That’s how I feel about Quinn’s ability to be fair. He can tick me off sometimes, but he is the most levelheaded, just person I know.”

She weighed what he was saying. Thought about what it meant. “And you’re suggesting that if we acted on this attraction…you’d step out of the picture. Your brother becomes my boss, not you.”

“Exactly.” Cameron’s assurance came along with a roll of ominous thunder that rumbled right through the villa.

Right through her feet where they touched the floor.

Maresa felt as if she were standing at the edge of a giant cliff, deciding whether or not to jump. Making that leap would be terrifying. But turning away from the tantalizing possibilities—the lure of the moment—was no longer an option. Even before she’d fallen asleep, she’d known that her window for selfish pleasures was closing fast if Isla proved to be Rafe’s daughter and Maresa’s responsibility.

How could she deny herself this night?

“Yes.” She hurled herself into the unknown and hoped for the best. “I know that you’re leaving soon, and I’m okay with that. But for tonight, if we could be just a man and a woman…” The simple words sent a shiver of longing through her.

Even in the dim light, she could see his blue eyes flare hotter, like the gas fireplace in the Antilles Suite when you turned up the thermostat.

“You have no idea how much I was hoping you’d say that.” His words took on a ragged edge as his hands slid around her waist. He drew her closer.

Crushed her lips to his.

 

AUTHOR INFO:

Four-time RITA nominee Joanne Rock has never met a romance sub-genre she didn’t like. The author of over eighty books enjoys writing a wide range of stories, most recently focusing on sexy contemporaries and small town family sagas. An optimist by nature and perpetual seeker of silver linings, Joanne finds romance fits her life outlook perfectly–love is worth fighting for. A frequent speaker at regional and national writing conferences she enjoys giving back to the writing community that nurtured and inspired her early career. She has a Masters degree in Literature from the University of Louisville but credits her fiction writing skills to her intensive study with friend and fellow author Catherine Mann. When she’s not writing, Joanne enjoys travel, especially to see her favorite sports teams play with her former sports editor husband and three athletic-minded sons.

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

 

 

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:

Prize 1: three travel makeup bags, $10 Starbucks GC, WISHES AT FIRST LIGHT by Joanne Rock and friendship bracelet ( 1 winner – US Only)

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five-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Review * A SKY FULL OF STARS by Samantha Chase

June 6, 2017 3 Comments

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * A SKY FULL OF STARS by Samantha ChaseA Sky Full of Stars by Samantha Chase
Series: The Shaughnessy Brothers #5
Published by Sourcebooks Casablanca on June 6, 2017
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four-stars

He's always looked to the stars
Now she's the brightest light in his universe.

Brilliant astrophysicist Dr. Owen Shaughnessy feels more connected to the cosmos than to people. He's great with calculations, but when he leads a team of scientists to study a famous meteor shower, he doesn't factor in his free-spirited artist assistant Brooke Matthews.

Polar opposites in personality, the friction between Owen and Brooke threatens to derail the project. But the beauty and mystery of the night sky draw them together—and she's going to surprise him in ways the stars never could.


Another exciting visit with the Shaughnessy’s has Samantha Chase doing what she does best … making us laugh, pulling on our emotions and etching another Shaughnessy brother onto our hearts! A down-to-earth family who are all super supportive of each other, but know how to tell it like it is when they need to.

Owen Shaughnessy has alwasy been the over-the-top smart brother. He might be socially awkward and far from the life of he party, but he’s real. He’s smart, he’s shy, he loves knowledge. Now he’s about to undertake a meteor shower excursion that forces him way out of his comfort zone and having to interact with his students/colleagues in a different way than he’s comfortable with.

Brooke Matthews is a struggling artist trying to find her way in the world, but she’s also the niece of Owen’s fellow scientist and mentor, so when she’s pitched an idea to go along on Owen’s excursion as his assistant, she’s excited for the chance! Neither of them expect the zap of attraction they both feel the instant their eyes meet though … this could make for an interesting situation!

four-stars
Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Blog Tour / Book Review * DOG COLLAR CHAOS by Adrienne Giordano

June 6, 2017 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * DOG COLLAR CHAOS by Adrienne GiordanoDog Collar Chaos by Adrienne Giordano
Series: A Lucie Rizzo Mystery, #4
Published by SilverHart Publishing on June 6, 2017
Buy on Amazon
four-stars

DOG COLLAR CHAOS

Lucie Rizzo--Mafia princess-turned-dog accessory entrepreneur—is riding high after scoring a partnership with Buzzy Sneider, America's leading craft and interior decorating mogul. A collaboration that is sure to move Lucie's fledgling business into the next tax bracket.

When Buzzy turns up dead and Lucie's BFF and business partner, Roseanne, is accused of the murder, Lucie will stop at nothing to prove Ro's innocence. Even if it means keeping secrets from her new squeeze, sexy detective Tim O'Brien, who's determined to keep Lucie from running one of her screwball investigations.

With Ro behind bars and Tim hot under the collar over Lucie's meddling, Lucie is forced to accept her father's help to clear Ro’s name and save their business. But will doing so put a killer hot on her heels?


Adorably funny! Lucie Rizzo and her quirky gang always manage to give us a laugh and a little mystery while developing their love life and relationships. I always enjoy them and look forward to more of their adventures!

Lucie Rizzo is over the moon to have partnered with super popular Buzzy Sneider for a charity event benefitting dogs. Her dog accessory business, Coco Barknell is doing really well and getting mentioned with the likes of Buzzy’s Foo Foo Entertainment has the potential of putting them over the top! Unfortunately, shortly after an altercation with Roseanne, Lucie’s BFF and business partner, Buzzy winds up dead … and Ro is arrested for her murder!

Lucie adores Ro and will stop at nothing to prove she didn’t commit this crime … even if she has to get out there on the streets doing some investigating of her own … much to the horror of her police detective boyfriend Tim!

 

 

 

 

Dog Collar Chaos (A Lucie Rizzo Mystery) by Adrienne Giordano

Date of Publication: June 6, 2017

Blurb

Lucie Rizzo–Mafia princess-turned-dog accessory entrepreneur—is riding high after scoring a partnership with Buzzy Sneider, America’s leading craft and interior decorating mogul. A collaboration that is sure to move Lucie’s fledgling business into the next tax bracket.

When Buzzy turns up dead and Lucie’s BFF and business partner, Roseanne, is accused of the murder, Lucie will stop at nothing to prove Ro’s innocence. Even if it means keeping secrets from her new squeeze, sexy detective Tim O’Brien, who’s determined to keep Lucie from running one of her screwball investigations.

With Ro behind bars and Tim hot under the collar over Lucie’s meddling, Lucie is forced to accept her father’s help to clear Ro’s name and save their business. But will doing so put a killer hot on her heels?

Available From

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About Adrienne Giordano

Adrienne Giordano is a USA Today bestselling author of over twenty romantic suspense and mystery novels. She is a Jersey girl at heart, but now lives in the Midwest with her workaholic husband, sports-obsessed son and Buddy the Wheaten Terrorist (Terrier). She is a cofounder of Romance University blog and Lady Jane’s Salon-Naperville, a reading series dedicated to romantic fiction.

Find Adrienne Giordano Online

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four-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Blog Tour / Book Review * CALLED OUT by Jen Doyle

June 5, 2017 3 Comments
* Blog Tour / Book Review * CALLED OUT by Jen DoyleCalled Out by Jen Doyle
Published by Carina Press on May 29, 2017
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four-stars

Jack "Ox" Oxford is used to being alone. Granted, when you screw over your friends, being alone isn't always a choice. Playing for the Chicago Watchmen is a last-ditch effort to save his career…and right some of his past wrongs. He's not expecting a warm reception, but he's also not expecting a flat tire to change everything.

Recovering control freak, single mom and semiprofessional chaos wrangler Lola Deacon McIntire doesn't need an arrogant ballplayer to swoop in and save her from anything, much less her flat tire. And she definitely doesn't need her body to betray her and decide this is the guy to wake up her rusty libido. She isn't about to upset her sons' lives for any man—much less one who so clearly doesn't think he's dad material.

Jack never thought he'd find someone who wanted to build a life with him, but the more time he spends with Lola and her boys, the more it starts to feel permanent. Even tough-as-nails Lola concedes there just might be a future here—the big, beautiful, messy future neither of them was looking for—but only if Jack will accept he deserves it.


Filled with lots of laughs, plenty of turmoil and some hot, sexy fun! I really enjoyed this book, and would have rated it even higher, but there was a major issue with the plot. One particular thing was mentioned that was a really big happening … and we were left hanging without knowing what ever came of the issue. Normally you could overlook that somewhat, but in this instance, it can have a major change in how we feel about the person’s character and our overall like or dislike of them, so it was a big letdown that it wasn’t addressed.

Jack “Ox” Oxford never thought the day would come that he’d be driving into small town Inspiration, Iowa trying to track down his ex-best friend to ask for a favor … a favor he doesn’t deserve and can’t believe he has the nerve to even ask for. He’s temporarily waylaid by a damsel in distress … and what a feisty temper she has!

Lola McIntire doesn’t need some man ambling his way along to fix a flat tire for her … especially THIS man! What is he even doing here when no one in town can stand him? As grateful as she should be for someone offering her help, the overly stressed single mom isn’t willing to roll out the welcome wagon to this man … she just wishes her wayward body realized that!

 

 

 

 

 

Called Out
Calling It #3

By: Jen Doyle

Releasing May 29, 2017
Carina Press

 

 

BLURB:
Jack “Ox” Oxford is used to being alone. Granted, when you screw over your friends, being alone isn’t always a choice. Playing for the Chicago Watchmen is a last-ditch effort to save his career…and right some of his past wrongs. He’s not expecting a warm reception, but he’s also not expecting a flat tire to change everything.

Recovering control freak, single mom and semiprofessional chaos wrangler Lola Deacon McIntire doesn’t need an arrogant ballplayer to swoop in and save her from anything, much less her flat tire. And she definitely doesn’t need her body to betray her and decide this is the guy to wake up her rusty libido. She isn’t about to upset her sons’ lives for any man—much less one who so clearly doesn’t think he’s dad material.

Jack never thought he’d find someone who wanted to build a life with him, but the more time he spends with Lola and her boys, the more it starts to feel permanent. Even tough-as-nails Lola concedes there just might be a future here—the big, beautiful, messy future neither of them was looking for—but only if Jack will accept he deserves it.

Buy Links:    AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO

 

Link to Follow Tour:  http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/called-out-jen-doyle

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/34372440-called-out

Goodreads Series Link https://www.goodreads.com/series/183668-calling-it

 

 

 

At precisely 9:00 a.m. the next morning Lola was sitting in her car outside the farmhouse.

At 9:04, she was still sitting there, a jumble of thoughts, none of them productive or good.

She finally got herself moving when Jack came around from the back and leaned against the side of the house, his arms folded in front of his chest as he watched her. “Glad to see you’re wearing a shirt,” she said, slamming the car door shut and walking toward him.

He smiled and a huge thrum went through her, proving just how bad an idea this arrangement was. “I’ll state for the record that if you ever choose to declare a no-shirts-while-working day,” he said, “I’m all for it.”

She didn’t for a second believe him. He’d been Nate’s best friend since his rookie season; Silas’s favorite player. She’d watched him on and off the field for years and even though she’d already succumbed to it twice she knew that low drawl and easy smile went along with the part he played. He used them on everyone from the grandmothers whose programs he signed to the reporters who interviewed him. Up until this last year, at least.

She resisted rolling her eyes as she replied, “I’ll state for the record it’s unlikely to happen.”

“Well, then, I sure hope you weren’t spending all that time in the car thinking about the clothes I did or didn’t have on,” he answered.

Unfortunately, that was exactly what she’d been thinking about. Or, rather, him in various states of undress, her in the same, and how hot and hard he would feel against her. In danger of giving in, she went with the surefire way to shut that conversation down. “I was thinking about my husband, if you’d truly like to know.”

“About him not wearing a shirt?”

“Do you really know how to do this kind of stuff?” He was a professional baseball player from Connecticut. Not exactly the guy she’d call to hang a picture, much less help renovate a house. Then again, Nate had put him here to work and Nate generally knew what he was doing.

Still, it didn’t help when Jack gave answers like, “I’ve got a great phone. I can look up how-to videos from pretty much anywhere.”

She frowned at his grin. “You’re really not worried about your hand?” Pissing his father off was one thing; ruining his career another entirely.

“Don’t you worry,” he said, his smile turning wicked. “My hand works just fine when it needs to.”

Trying not to let on that his smile had hit her right below her belly, she threw her hands up in the air. “Does everything you say have to be some kind of sexual innuendo?”

“I was talking about pitching.” He cocked his head. “Wait, you were talking about sex?”

He wasn’t talking about pitching. She wasn’t that out of practice. But it had been long enough for her to be entirely off her game. The best reply she could come up with was a snorted, “You wish.” Except the second she said it, she snapped her mouth shut, because he looked at her in a way that made her wonder if maybe the whole flirty thing he had going on wasn’t just a way to get under her skin.

No. This was just a game to him; it had to be. He couldn’t seriously be interested.

Except then he swallowed hard and looked away.

Lola’s heart was racing and it felt harder than it should to breathe. But they were both adults here; they each knew exactly how bad an idea it would be to let this go further. And so at the same time they both turned to leave the room. The problem was that they bumped into each other in the process.

“Oh, shit,” he muttered as his hand came down to steady her yet again.

Her thoughts exactly. It was just that it had been so long since she’d touched a man—accidental stumbling excepted—and she wanted so badly to feel that again. He was the wrong person to be thinking this about. Yet she couldn’t stop herself from looking up at him.

Everything was suddenly clearer. Sharper. Even the way he stood, although he hadn’t moved so much as a muscle. His gaze bored into hers, then traveled past her jaw, between her breasts, right down the center of her before coming back up. She felt the heat rise through her, as she dropped her gaze to his lips. She’d done a lot of kissing in her life, but only with Dave. Would Jack taste different? Feel different?

“I’m not a good guy, Lola. You deserve a lot better than me,” he said, his voice gruff as he straightened up a little. But all that did was bring their bodies closer into alignment—close enough for her to feel exactly how aroused he was.

She wasn’t sure what she deserved. She’d been a good wife to her husband. She’d always thought she and Dave deserved to live a long and happy life together. That hadn’t been meant to be. Was it wrong to want so badly to feel a man’s touch, even if it wasn’t Dave’s? To want to touch a man so badly?

“Lola…” he said. Groaned, really. “This is a horrible idea.” But instead of moving away from her, he straightened up all the way, which meant they were now separated only by centimeters. She could feel his heat surrounding her.

“Horrible fucking idea.” This time he spoke more to himself.

But it didn’t stop him, either.

Instead, his hand came up and after a moment of just hanging there, he cupped her jaw, and just the touch of his hand to her skin had her nearly whimpering in longing. This was what it felt like to have a man touch her again. This was what it felt like to have her whole being reawaken. She put her hands on his chest. Everything inside her was humming. Throbbing in the most delicious and frightening of ways. She needed to be listening to what he said because he was absolutely right. And yet she brushed his lips with hers.

He stared down at her for a few seconds as she pulled slightly back. And then in one swift motion, he picked her up and spun them so her back was against the wall as his mouth took possession of hers.

He wasn’t a big fan of kissing women. Fucking them, yes. Being involved in everything else that led up to the fucking, absolutely. But kissing wasn’t his thing. Not like that, at least. Never like that.

 

 

 

AUTHOR INFO:

A big believer in happily ever afters, Jen Doyle decided it was high time she started creating some. She has an M.S. in Library and Information Science and, in addition to her work as a librarian, has worked as a conference and events planner as well as a Communications and Enrollment administrator in both preschool and higher education environments (although some might say that there is very little difference between the two; Jen has no comment regarding whether she is one of the “some”).

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

 

 

 

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four-stars
Filed Under: Blog Tour, Book Reviews

* Review * UNBRIDLED BILLIONAIRE by Dani Wade

June 3, 2017 Leave a Comment

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * UNBRIDLED BILLIONAIRE by Dani WadeUnbridled Billionaire by Dani Wade
Published by Harlequin Desire on June 1, 2017
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four-half-stars

A Cinderella moment…with an untamable billionaire

Presley Macarthur was always a plain Jane, a fact her stepmother pointed out at every turn. But Presley's passion is horses, and when a bad business deal leaves her at the mercy of newly wealthy stable owner Kane Harrington, Presley finds herself on the brink of a sensual transformation she never saw coming.

Kane has a use for Presley—to make him legitimate in the exclusive world of high-dollar horse breeding. But there's nothing useful about his growing feelings for her. After losing it all before, is he willing to take the ultimate risk again, and make this woman's passionate transformation complete?


Two hearts, unwilling to love … until fate brings them each other! He’s been hurt before and decided never again. She’s been beat down emotionally all of her life and doesn’t see her own worth. Together they are magic waiting to happen!

Presley Macarthur might not be up on all the finer things in life, but the one thing she does know is horses. It’s her passion, and she’s well respected in the field. When she finds herself stuck in the middle of a mixed up business deal, she has to make some sacrifices she normally wouldn’t make … and she’s not overly happy about it!

Kane Harrington and his brother Mason are trying to get their footing with their new stable, so when he stumbles upon an opportunity to get a foot in the door of the prestigious world by showing up around town with Presley, he jumps at the chance. She might think she’s a plain jane, but he knows that there’s a hidden gem beneath all of that lack of confidence. He just needs to help her bring it to the surface!

four-half-stars
Filed Under: Book Reviews

* Review * MAYBE THIS LOVE by Jennifer Snow

June 3, 2017 Leave a Comment
* Review * MAYBE THIS LOVE by Jennifer SnowMaybe This Love by Jennifer Snow
Series: Colorado Ice
Published by Forever on May 30, 2017
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Goodreads
four-stars

THE GAME OF HIS LIFE

Hockey player Ben Westmore has some serious skills---on and off the ice---and he's not above indulging in the many perks of NHL stardom. When a night in Vegas ends in disaster, he realizes two things: 1) it's time to lie low for a while, and 2) he needs a lawyer---fast. But the smoking-hot woman who walks into his office immediately tests all his good intentions.

Olivia Davis doesn't need anyone derailing her career---or her dreams of starting a family---least of all a skirt-chasing player like Ben. But soon he's unleashing a full-court press to convince her that he's the real deal. She's slowly falling for his sweet, rugged charm, but with so much on the line, Olivia has to decide whether Ben can truly change---or if he's just playing the game.


Another sexy, hockey playing Westmore knocks our socks off in the next book in Jennifer Snow’s Colorado Ice series! This family is fun, down-to-earth and a pleasure to spend time with. The connection between Ben and Olivia was sweet … it might not have enthralled me quite as much as Jackson’s story did previously, but was a fast paced joy to read! Looking forward to Asher’s story!

Colorado Avalanche captain Ben Westmore’s partying has finally caught up to him! His love ’em and leave ’em, every night is a party attitude has kept him company for years, but after a night he doesn’t remember in Vegas comes back to haunt him, he decides to lay low for awhile … and get it taken care of FAST!

Attorney Olivia Davis has decided to move forward with her goal of having a family even if she is still single. The last thing she needs is a woman loving playboy trying out his smooth moves on her! She has to admit though … the guy she sees is front of her is so not what she expected! He’s kind, generous, loving to his family … how can she resist him??

 

four-stars
Filed Under: Book Reviews

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