Thursday, July 13, 2017

Book Blast: The Year I Dated the Internet by Stacy Lynn Carroll



The Year I Dated the Internet by Stacy Lynn Carroll

With her 30th birthday fast approaching, Chelsea Wilson decides she is done being single. She is going to be married by the end of the year if it kills her. And sixteen first dates might just do that. With no male companionship, other than her cat Daughtry, Chelsea reluctantly creates an online dating profile. She begins meeting all kinds of men in a world now full of man buns and skinny jeans. While trying to find one good man, she ends up with four. How will Chelsea ever decide? The best part is she doesn’t have to. It’s up to you. In this romantic comedy like no other, you, the reader, get to pick who Chelsea chooses in the end. Her fate is in your hands.


Grab your copy for just 99 cents from July 11th to 15th

Praise for the Book
"I highly recommend reading this book. The story is fantastic, the dates memorable, and the ending is what you decide. I was so happy to choose which guy Chelsea ends up with, I felt even more involved in her story." --Stacy Lybbert, Amazon reviewer

"Having read plenty of fiction with endings I didn't love, this book was refreshing and fun. And having been married for a couple of decades and out of the dating scene, it was eye opening to get of glimpse of the new world of online dating and how difficult it can be." --Holly Frasche, Amazon reviewer

"There was plenty of humour throughout the story and I shared some of the jokes with friends and family who all laughed as well. I would like to see more books like this. It lived up to its description and recommendation and I'm glad I read it. I would recommend it. It was just what I was looking for: a nice, light read with no heavy stuff." --Autism Mom, Amazon reviewer

"I especially liked how real and well developed the characters were. The main character has dating experiences that anyone in the dating world can relate with, as well as experiences that no one would want, and ones that are unique to our age of the internet, taking the reader on a ride that is entertaining and heart warming." --Leilani Peterson, Amazon reviewer.


Excerpt:

I would rather clean a gas station bathroom with my bare hands than be here right now. I hate blind dates. I don’t know how I let myself get talked into one. As soon as married people find out I’m single, it’s like they feel it is their personal duty to find my husband. You’re single? I have a second cousin who is single. I should set you two up! Does he like the same things as me? Doubtful. Is he attractive? Probably not. Do we have anything in common? No … but you’re single and he’s single so it must be a match made in heaven, right?

I pick up my glass and take a sip. There’s a huge burst of laughter at the other end of the bar. I look over and see several barely twenty-year-olds in tight dresses with perfect hair and more makeup than I’ve ever worn. They are surrounded by older men who appear to be comedians by the incessant giggling pouring out from them. I watch the men buy another round of shots, followed by more laughter. I feel like an old lady sitting grumpily on my stool, wishing the youngins would keep it down...

Grab your copy for just 99 cents from July 11th to 15th


Author Stacy Lynn Carroll

Stacy Lynn Carroll has always loved telling stories. She started out at Utah State University where she pursued a degree in English, learned how to western swing, and watched as many of her fellow students became ‘True Aggies’. She then finished her BA at the University of Utah where she got an emphasis in creative writing. After college, she worked as an administrative assistant, where she continued to write stories for the amusement of her co-workers. When her first daughter was born, and with the encouragement of a fortune cookie, she quit her job and became a full-time mommy and writer. She and her husband have four children, two dogs, two rats, two fish, and a partridge in a pear tree.


amazon or paypal

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway

Ends 7/23/17

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Posted by Melanie at 4:00 AM 0 comments

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Blog Tour/Review: The Renegade's Redemption by Stacy Henrie




On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Renegade's Redemption
by Stacy Henrie
Inspirational Historical Romance
Paperback & ebook, 288 pages
July 1st 2017 by Love Inspired Historical

Refuge for the Outlaw

When Tex Beckett arrives at Ravena Reid's farm, he's eight years too late for the elopement they'd once planned—and it's far too early to win her forgiveness. He's seriously wounded, though, and she can't turn him away, though she knows better than to trust him. Yes, it's wonderful having help with the farm, and with the orphans she fosters, but if she opens her heart, she'll get hurt again when he leaves. And Tex always leaves.

As a notorious bank robber, Tex is used to danger. Yet reuniting with the only woman he's ever loved is the riskiest thing he's ever done. All he wants is to stay with Ravena and the children. But can he build a new start before his past catches up with him?

Tex Beckett is a bank robber known as the Texas Titan. When he gets wounded, he heads to his old farm to recover. He hasn't been there in eight years and is surprised to learn that his twin brother sold it. Not knowing where else to turn, he heads to Ravena Reid's farm. Eight years ago, they were going to elope, but he took off instead and hasn't seen her since. She's understandably mixed about seeing him again. They start to rebuild their relationship, but his true identity is a huge obstacle to overcome.

I loved The Outlaw's Secret where we got to know Tate Beckett so I was excited to get Tex's story! I knew some of the back story from Tate's perspective and felt like I got the full picture in this book. Ravena is easy to love. She's a single woman who takes in orphans and works hard to keep a roof over their heads. She's kind to Tex, even though he left her eight years earlier and never tried to contact her the entire time. Even though Tex is a bank robber, he's likable as well. He had his reasons for turning to a life of crime but starts to realize what he lost, which allows him to make meaningful changes in his life.

Their situation seemed impossible so it was hard to determine how this story would end. I devoured it quickly and love the way it all came together! I love Stacy Henrie's writing style and she is quickly becoming a favorite author! If you enjoy clean historical romance, you will want to read both of these books! 

My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy via Prism Book Tours, which did not affect my review in any way

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

Harlequin│Kobo│iBooks│GooglePlay│BAM│IndieBound


Other Books in the Series

The Outlaw's Secret
by Stacy Henrie
Christian Historical RomancePaperback & ebook, 288 pages
February 7th 2017 by Love Inspired Historical

Lawman in Disguise 

Getting taken hostage by a gang of train robbers wasn't in dime novelist Essie Vanderfair's plans, but interviewing these men could make her career soar. Especially since the gang includes legendary outlaw Tex Beckett, better known as the Texas Titan. Tex is famed for his protection of women and children, so she'll be fine…right? 

Keeping the gang in line was hard enough before a stubborn, beautiful writer interfered. Now Tex is scrambling to keep Essie safe, to gather evidence against the gang and most of all to hide his dangerous secrets. First, that he's a detective working undercover. And second, that he's not the Texas Titan at all, but Tex's twin brother, Tate Beckett.


About the Author

Stacy Henrie has always had a love for history, fiction, and chocolate. She earned her B.A. in public relations before turning her attentions to raising a family and writing inspirational historical romances. Wife of an entrepreneur husband and a mother to three, Stacy loves to live out history through her fictional characters. In addition to author, she is also a reader, a road trip enthusiast, and a novice interior decorator.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest
Tour Giveaway

 - 1 winner will receive  copies of The Express Rider's Lady and The Outlaw's Secret, and a $10 Amazon e-gift card (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-gift card (open internationally)
- Ends July 22nd
Posted by Melanie at 4:00 AM 2 comments

Tuesday, July 11, 2017

Blog Tour/Review: The Unicorn Hunter by Rachel Kirkaldie



The Unicorn Hunter, by Rachel Kirkaldie
2017, 192p, YA Fantasy
My Rating=3.5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not affect my review in any way



Princess Jessalyn's betrothal is the talk of the realm, but all she cares about is escaping her family's smelly fishing kingdom. As queen of Gontir, her life will finally be perfect. But her plans are shattered when she's kidnapped by a murderous unicorn hunter in a plot to destroy Gontir. With her dreams in ruins, Jessalyn must decide if the life she's always wanted is worth the price of her heart.

Princess Jessalyn is beautiful, spoiled and betrothed to the man of her dreams. She's looking forward to becoming Queen. However, a plot to kidnap her can ruin everything and open her eyes to some truths she'd rather not see. Erik is the scoundrel who leads the band of men who kidnap her at someone else's bidding. There are plenty of secrets to uncover in this adventure!

 This is a story that I enjoyed but had some issues with. I liked the general idea but felt that certain parts were rushed and wound up leaving me confused. Jessalyn isn't easy to like and I didn't feel like her character grew enough to win me over by the end.

I thought this book was creative and had some twists and turns which kept me interested in seeing how it would end. The ending is left wide open for a second book and I still had lots of questions when I finished reading. Erik is a likable character. Yes, he's a scoundrel but he questions what's going on around him and has a desire to become better.

 This is a book that I did want more from, but still enjoyed reading! I enjoyed getting to know the characters and it will be interesting to see what happens to them in the future. This book is worth checking out if you're looking for a light, quick read!


Rachel Kirkaldie earned a BA in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from BYU-Idaho in 2002. While she was there, she worked as a writing assistant in the student writing center, published poetry in the school literary magazine The Outlet, and attended multiple conferences and workshops. More recently she won “Publisher’s Choice” for best Christmas story in a contest on ldspublisher.org. Although a full-time mother and a part-time state employee, she still finds time to dedicate to her writing, making it the best she possibly can.

Posted by Melanie at 4:00 AM 2 comments

Grand Finale Blitz: The Charm Offensive by Cari Lynn Webb


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for
The Charm Offensive
By Cari Lynn Webb

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below...

Launch - Author Interview

What motivated you to write THE CHARM OFFENSIVE?

We moved often when I was a child because of my father’s job and now with my husband, we’ve continued to relocate around the country. I’ve been fortunate to live in both small towns and big cities and I’ve discovered there’s something to love about each place we’ve lived. There are so many wonderful romance series set in small towns and I wanted to write a series about characters who live and work in a big, vibrant city. San Francisco has always been one of my favorite cities and when the idea for The Charm Offensive came up, the City by the Bay seemed like the perfect setting. 


Sophie Callahan was the first person to pull at him in places he thought only the music could reach. But, unlike the symphony, he wasn’t interested in becoming a patron of Sophie Callahan’s.

Brooke Blogs - Charmed At The Movies

To celebrate the release of my July book, The Charm Offensive, it’s time to break down charm and figure out what it really takes for someone or something to be charming. And to kick off the blog tour week, let’s talk about those movie characters that’ve charmed us.


"This story is filled with heartwarming characters and twists and turns. And along the way, Sophie and Brad rise above the bad luck in their lives to find each other, fall in love, and claim their well-deserved happily ever after. What a great story. It will warm your heart. It left me smiling happily at the end. I would definitely recommend THE CHARM OFFENSIVE to anyone looking for a heartwarming romance."

Deal Sharing Aunt - Interview

2. How many unpublished and half-finished books do you have?

I have a collection of unpublished books that span several romance categories: historical, paranormal and contemporary. We just moved into a new house last week and I came across my very first manuscript in one of the attic boxes. I took it out, dusted it off and repacked it into a sturdier box for safe-keeping. That one is definitely for my eyes only.

Hearts & Scribbles - Pets That Charm Us

My heroine, Sophie Callahan, owns a pet store called The Pampered Pooch in my July release, The Charm Offensive. Pet owners can find everything they need for their favorite four-legged family members from dog food to cat beds to every sort of toy. City dogs can also enjoy play dates in the Pooch’s day care. Sophie can’t refuse shelter for abandoned kittens, puppy surrenders or rescues of any kind. She makes use of her foster families and her kennels to house all of her furry friends until she finds each one a forever home. 


"Overall, I would recommend this book to romance readers and young adults. It’ll put a smile on your face, and probably make you thankful you don’t have the relatives that Sophie does! Just make sure you are ready to meet Ella. I promise you that she will lift your spirits."


Her father had taught her not to trust as a child, and she prided herself on being more open and less closed off as an adult. Until one phone call from her father had made her suspicious of everyone, including herself. One phone call had made her doubt that decency existed.

Becky on Books - Excerpt

“I lied.” His voice was low, as if dredged through the darkness. “I do want something from you.”

Sophie watched him and waited. The attic closed in as if embracing them, but a shiver shifted through the air, rippling across her skin. “What?”

Brad tugged her against him. “This.”

Paulette's Papers - Charmed I'm Sure

I asked my two teenage daughters about the things that make a good first impression. Here’s their list:
1. Someone who can make you laugh
2. Someone who is upbeat
3. Someone who is sincere


"Really good characters grab our attention with a promising plot from the beginning. I was a bit thrown by the writing style where we would get a subtle hint of knowledge on a character without giving us details several places throughout the book that kind of left us guessing … but overall, it was an enjoyable read with a happy ending to be enjoyed by all."

Mel's Shelves - The Charm Factor

The definition of charming according to Merriam-Webster is “extremely pleasing or delightful.” I’ve been around people I’d describe as charming and they’ve been more than simply delightful. They usually seem to have some intangible quality that is hard to describe, but so very compelling. You want to be around charming people perhaps because they make you feel like instant friends. Charming people make everyone feel better for being around them.

Harlie's Books - Excerpt & Review

Brad’s strong hand engulfed Ella’s as if he’d been holding the girl’s hand since she’d learned to walk. Simple, easy and natural like a father with a daughter. He never flinched. Never pulled away. Just moved closer to Ella’s side. A band twisted around Sophie’s chest as if a professional linebacker had tackled her to the ground.

"The family issues were awesome in the book. They are relatable and honest. Brad is a great hero. He had to figure out what was most important to him and he did. Sophie…she had to grow on me and she finally did. "

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"What I loved about this book is that two people with a lot of insecurities and emotional pain are able to open their heats and find love. The supporting characters are people you would like to surround yourself with (well, most of them). This is a patchwork family. Broken people, who aren't related, coming together to make a whole."


"This was a really sweet story. I really liked the story line. . . . I think this is a great book and recommend it to other readers."


"The characters in The Charm Offensive are so well-written and believable. Sophie’s niece, Ella, is such a sweetheart with a huge heart. I love Evelyn and how she becomes involved in their lives. The fact that Sophie has a pet store is just awesome! I want a bookstore, but having a pet store would be my second choice. If you love sweet romance, you’ll love The Charm Offensive."


"The Charm Offensive is sweet and witty and brimming with love and, yes, charm. Sophie, Brad, and Ella make quite a team, and their interactions will put a smile on your face and in your heart. The writing is smooth and draws you in at once, and I hope The Charm Offensive’s universe becomes a series – there are other stories to be discovered with the supporting characters."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

A warning flared inside him, telling him these memories belonged to Ella and Sophie, not him. But he barreled on past the exit-now sign flashing in his mind, very much determined to add to their memories. Yes, Sophie’s stove was more vintage than practical. He’d bet the temperature in the oven hadn’t been calibrated in over two decades. And if he guessed correctly, only two of the four burners worked. Yet he wanted to make dinner here with them. Against all good sense and logic and rationale, he wanted to experience prepping and cooking in this kitchen with this family.


"I absolutely adored Sophie and Brad. Even though Brad had a pretty huge hidden motive in getting involved with Sophie. . . . An excellent heartwarming read. I loved it."

Book Lover in Florida - Big City Charm

There’s a long-standing debate about small town living versus big city living, tiny houses versus sprawling estates covering acres of land, neighbors or no neighbors. Depending on my mood (or how much teenage drama is coursing through our house), I’ll voice my preference for one over the other. However, Sophie Callahan and Brad Harrington, from The Charm Offensive, would choose a life in the city every time.


"Cari Lynn Webb has written a fantastic romantic story with precious main characters. I instantly fell in love with The Charm Offensive. It's indeed incredibly charming. It's also sweet, entertaining and delightful. I loved that there's so much eye for detail, even the large number of pets all have their own distinct personalities. Cari Lynn Webb has paid attention to everything and her story has warmth and cosiness in abundance. The Charm Offensive is a terrific feelgood story and I highly recommend this gorgeous loving book."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already...

The Charm Offensive

by Cari Lynn Webb

Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages

July 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Winning her over means winning everything

Sophie Callahan is PI Brad Harrington’s best lead to tracking down the man he’s been hired to bring to justice: Sophie’s own thieving father. But when Brad arrives at The Pampered Pooch, just behind a litter of stray kittens, the pet-store owner is the big surprise. This scrappy, huge-hearted woman with charm to spare gets to Brad in a way no one has ever been able to before. She spends her life finding—and making—homes for others: abandoned pets, her young niece. He’ll have to tell her why he’s really here. Which means he’ll have to choose between his sail-away dreams and the chance to build a forever home—with her.


About the Author


 Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.

Tour Giveaway


- 1 winner will receive a Baubelle Expandable, Inspirational Charm Bracelet and signed copy of Make Me a Match (US only)

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon e-gift card and ebook of Make Me a Match (open internationally)

- Ends July 14th
Posted by Melanie at 3:30 AM 0 comments

Monday, July 10, 2017

Blog Tour/Review: Home to Stay by Kate James


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Home to Stay

by Kate James

Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 312 pages

July 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She's bringing his son home

A missing little boy triggers San Diego K-9 officer Shannon Clemens and her canine search-and-rescue partner into instant action. For the rookie cop haunted by a childhood tragedy, bringing Sawyer Evans's son safely home is more than a job. It's a mission she can't fail… But forging a friendship with the father is a tactical error that could compromise her first solo assignment. Yet the deepening bond between them is almost impossible to resist…

Sawyer Evans is camping with his sister, parents and 4-year-old son, Dylan, when he wakes up to find him missing. Shannon Clemens is a San Diego K-9 officer who tries to find him, along with her police-service dog, Darwin. Emotions are high for both of them as Sawyer is anxious to get Dylan back and Shannon works relentlessly to produce a positive outcome while dealing with a deep personal loss. Shannon and Sawyer are both likable characters and became closer as they dealt with the stressful situation they were in. Their relationship had its ups and downs and I wasn't sure how things would work out for them.

 Kate James is one of my favorite authors! This book is a great addition to her San Diego K-9 series. It wasn't easy to figure out who took Dylan and what their motive was. I enjoyed the mystery aspect, as well as the sweet romance. I also loved catching up with characters we've met in other books and getting a glimpse of what they're currently doing. Each of the books stand well on their own, but it's definitely more fun to read them all! This is a great series for anyone that enjoys clean, contemporary romance!

My Rating=5 Stars
Source: I received a complimentary copy via Prism Book Tours, which did not affect my review in any way

Other Books in the Series

  

About the Author


Kate spent much of her childhood abroad before attending university in Canada. She built a successful business career, but her passion has always been literature. As a result, Kate turned her energy to her love of the written word.

Kate's goal is to entertain her readers with engaging stories featuring strong, likable characters. Kate has been honored with numerous awards for her writing. She and her husband, Ken, enjoy traveling and the outdoors, with their beloved Labrador Retrievers, Harley and Logan.

Kate would love to hear from you! You can connect with her by email, through her website, her Facebook page, Twitter, or mail at PO Box 446, Schomberg, ON, L0G 1T0, Canada.
Tour Giveaway


 Prize Pack:

· A gorgeous aqua cross-body bag;

· "Dreamer Extraordinaire" charm bookmark;

· signed copy of When Love Matters Most, the second book in the San Diego K-9 Unit series);

· signed copy of When I Found You, the third book in the San Diego K-9 Unit series;

· an assortment of bookmarks and bookplates; and

· a $20 Amazon gift card.

· (US/CAN - if winner lives elsewhere, will receive ebooks & gift card instead)

Signed Books:
· Six winners who comment on any of the blog posts, will receive a signed book (US/CAN) of their choice from the first three books in the San Diego K-9 Unit series, When the Right One Comes Along, When Love Matters Most, or When I Found You.

Ends July 18th
Posted by Melanie at 4:00 AM 5 comments

Grand Finale Blitz: Family of His Own by Catherine Lanigan


On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Family of His Own
By Catherine Lanigan

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below...

Launch - The Faerie Tour

Welcome back to THE SHORES OF INDIAN LAKE! If you’re reading the series and following our Prism book tours, I’ll bet you weren’t expecting something as fantastical as a Faerie Tale, especially after dealing with cops, drug dealers and PTSD like we did with Cate Sullivan and Trent Davis in PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM, now did you?

Brooke Blogs - Isabelle’s Dreams

Isabelle’s ultimate dream is to see her paintings hang in a famous Chicago or New York City gallery. She is convinced that no art critic or buyer will ever want her silly faeries. She believes she needs to move on. To what, she is unsure.

Her insecurity about her art and her future stymies her, to some extent, just as any fear does to all of us. She wants so much, but is conflicted about which direction to take.


"This is not a book where you can easily predict the ending. I honestly didn’t know how it was going to turn out. Lanigan wove a story with complicated players and some unexpected twists, while once again infusing the novel with warmth and family. While I never really warmed up to Isabelle, Scott (and Bella and Michael) makes up for this in spades. And of course the setting of Indian Lake is one I’m always happy to visit"


It's All About the Romance - Painting Faeries

It was nearly six years ago when I started creating and building many of my characters for Indian Lake. Granted, there are some new ones, such as Isabelle’s entire family. They’re all new and I’m getting to know them now and you will, too, as we move into the future. Isabelle was quite vivid to me. Right from the beginning, I knew I wanted her to paint faeries. Not the little baby looking cutie pies inside flowers and laundry baskets, but real, honest to goodness faeries. I know…you are asking…are they real? Or you are asking, “Come on.”


She had to force herself to focus. “Yes, the glasses. Uh, for the midnight toast.”

He brushed his lips against her cheek. “And I’ll find you for my kiss to ring in the New Year.”

Isabelle hadn’t realized she’d shut her eyes, immersing herself in the moment with Scott.

She felt a whoosh of air, the temperature dropped and she blinked, returning to the present. Scott had left her.


Scott Abbott is one of those truly decent guys that come along one in your lifetime, if you’re lucky. He, like Isabelle, the heroine, was introduced in the first novel in the series, LOVE SHADOWS. Scott owns The Book Shop and Java Stop as well as being a reporter for the local newspaper. He grew up in Indian Lake and in high school, he had a crush on Isabelle, but after he went off to college to earn his journalism degree, Isabelle was left behind, working hard to help her mother pay for college tuitions for her brothers and sisters.


"FAMILY OF HIS OWN, is a sweet love story about two friends finding their forever together. Filled with wonderful characters, and heart wrenching emotion, this story was impossible to put down until the end. I had to know what happened to Scott and Isabelle. Loved, loved, loved this book."


Mel's Shelves - Review

"I love spending time in Indian Lake! It's fun to catch up with some of the other couples we've met in previous books and learn what's happening in their lives. This book does stand well on its own, so if it's your first visit to Indian Lake, you won't feel lost, and will most likely want to get to know the other characters as well. I hope to meet more Indian Lake residents in the future!"


"With characters from previous books appearing, these books always provide a sense of community and feelings of coming home. I love that. Indian Shores is a place I would want to live."


"A trip back to Indian Lake brings us the story of two friends … and possibly soul mates? I had conflicted feelings about this heroine. On one side, I understood how she felt about her past and the unfairness of it all, but on the other side, I found it really hard to like her when she was acting so selfish & one dimensional. There is turmoil, growth and happily ever afters … but a long road of self-discovery to get there!"

Paulette's Papers - Scott's Real Life Magic

In the scene in which Scott first sees Bella in a dank, musty crack house bedroom, she’s watching a cheap television that is playing “The Bishop’s Wife”, the old black and white movie with Cary Grant. It’s New Year’s Eve and Scott has just left Isabelle on the dance floor at midnight at the Lodge. Scott is wearing his tuxedo while the rest of the police wear Kevlar vests and gun holsters. Bella asks Scott if he is an angel. Surprised, he asks her why. She picks up the video tape box and points to Cary Grant in a dress suit. “You look just like him.” Convinced that Scott is the angel sent to save her and her brother Bella, she trusts Scott immediately, and melts his heart.

Children have no problem with magic. They expect it. And many times, they get it.

I Am A Reader - Excerpt

Isabelle steeled herself as she approached Scott. Before he had a chance to berate or accuse her, she whispered, “I was in Chicago and Wes graciously offered to drive me home through this terrible storm.”

Scott, ever the gentleman, offered his arm, which she took.

“Then I should thank him.

Becky on Books - Faerie Research and Other Fancies

I’d always wanted to write a story that involved faeries. Though there is nothing supernatural in the story telling in this Heartwarming story, I was piqued by the prodigious world of information about fairies. Folklore and mythology from ancient Celtics to Shakespeare, to Sir Walter Scott and William Blake in the 1790’s illustrate that fairies have been a source of delight and fascination to many generations.

Sylv.net - Excerpt

The room was small and smelled musty, with only the light from an old television illuminating the faces of a little girl, about five or six years old, and the toddler in her arms.

The girl stared at them fearfully. Her lips quivered, but she remained silent. She took a step backward and hoisted the baby closer to the crook of her neck. The baby grabbed a handful of her cotton shirt and started fussing.

She made a cooing sound into the baby’s ear and whispered something Scott couldn’t make out, but it was clear she knew exactly how to react to the baby and the baby to her.

Wishful Endings - Interview

As FAMILY OF HIS OWN is your eighth book in your Shores of Indian Lake series, are you still discovering new things about the setting and/or the characters?

Discovering new characters has been the delight of doing a series like this. This is the first time I’ve created an entire town and the people in it. Just like moving to a new city and going through all the necessary introductions, finding new doctors, a new church, new schools, everything and everyone is new. I have the joy of discovering each new person and all of their extended family as well. Each time a main character goes out to buy something or interview for a job, there are all those “other” people who have backgrounds and stories. I love asking, “And who are you?” And the list of curious questions I ask when I meet someone new.

In a word, this has been a “blast!”

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Scott leaned toward her, gazing at her with a force of longing and desire she couldn’t remember seeing before. “Isabelle, I came here tonight...” He placed his hand on hers. “To ask you something.”

A sense of foreboding settled over her. “Scott, I don’t think...”


"This book has made me fall in love with Indian Lake and I think I am gonna have to go back and read the rest of the series. I think this may be a first of Lanigan's books for me but will not be my last!"


“Scott,” Malcolm said, “I’d like you to meet my nephew—Wes Adams.”

“Great to meet you, Wes,” Scott said, offering his hand.

Wes nodded vaguely in Scott’s direction before locking eyes with Isabelle once more.

“Isabelle and Wes have already met,” Malcolm explained.

Scott dropped his hand to his side. “I can see that.”

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already...



Family of His Own
(Shores of Indian Lake #8)

Catherine Lanigan
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
July 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He's ready to settle down…with or without her

Scott Abbott has always loved Isabelle Hawks. And he's always been her rock. Patient, dependable, strong. But lately, she's been acting like that rock is weighing her down. With her art career taking off, Isabelle has been spending less and less time in Indian Lake…and with him. Scott isn't even sure what they are to each other anymore. They might be friends with a history, but it sure doesn't feel like a future. Maybe it's time for Scott to set her free and focus on his own dreams. A real home. A family. All the things he had hoped to share with her…

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin

Other Books in the Series



About the Author

Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of forty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, and more. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into dozens of languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available in E-books on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, Apple Store, Mobi and Kobo. Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her Vietnam war-based novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference.

Lanigan is the author of a trilogy of non- fiction books regarding angelic intervention in human life: Angel Watch, Divine Nudges and Angel Tales published by HCI and Cedar Fort. Skyhorse published Lanigan’s “how-to” book on writing: Writing the Great American Romance Novel. Lanigan was tasked by the NotMYkid Foundation to write a non-fiction book addressing teen addictions. Ms. Lanigan’s first Young Adult adventure novel, The Adventures of Lillie and Zane: The Golden Flute, was published by Cedar Fort.

Currently, she has published eight novels in the Shores of Indian Lake series for Harlequin Heartwarming: Love Shadows, Heart’s Desire, A Fine Year for Love, Katia’s Promise, Fear of Falling, Sophie’s Path and Protecting the Single Mom. Family of His Own pubs July, 2016. She has recently contracted for one more in the series: His Baby Dilemma.

As a cancer survivor, Ms. Lanigan is a frequent speaker at literary functions and book conventions as well as inspiring audiences with her real stories of angelic intervention from her Angel Tales series of books. She is an outspoken advocate for domestic violence and abuse and was honored by The National Domestic Violence Hotline in Washington, D.C. (THE EVOLVING WOMAN). She has been a guest on numerous radio programs including “Coast to Coast” and on television interview and talk show programs as well as blogs, podcasts and online radio interview programs.


Tour Giveaway


- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

- 1 winner will receive a tote bag and three Shores of Indian Lake books: Katia's Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie's Path (US only)
- Ends July 11th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grab Our Button!
Posted by Melanie at 3:30 AM 0 comments

Friday, July 7, 2017

Blog Tour/Spotlight: Sketches of My Soul by TC Booth


Sketches of My Soul banner

This is my stop during the book blitz for Sketches of My Soul by TC Booth. This book blitz is organized by Lola's Blog Tours. The book blitz runs from 3 till 9 July. See the tour schedule here.

Sketches of My SoulSketches of My Soul (Sketches #1)
By TC Booth
Genre: Contemporary
Age category: Young Adult
Release Date: June 20, 2017

Blurb:

In the game of life, I was used to being on the losing team. The odds were stacked against me. Tegan’s Team—a mom who tried to control me, a dad who would rather drink then spend time being a father, a lying ex-boyfriend, and fake friends. Like any team however, you have that one shining star that stood out above the rest. For me that star was Emily, my best friend.

I guess life had pity on me the day it gave me a friend that always had my back. Life must have felt extra giving the day it gave me a cheer leader—Mrs. White, my next-door neighbor. She’d been more of a parent to me growing up then my own parents.

And then there was Andrew. He was my shooting star. One that I never saw coming. One that I hoped became mine over the summer of my senior year.

A glimpse into a crystal ball couldn’t have prepared me for that summer, though. The summer where a letter from my mom rocked me to the core. I felt the world shake with every word I read in that letter. By the time I reached the end, my world split wide open swallowing me whole.

Excerpt:

 I reached the mailbox at the end of my driveway and sifted through the mail. Maybe I’d find a notice that I’d won a trip to another country, like Italy. I’d meet a hot Italian boy with a love of culture and music … stay there and study art … The sound of spraying water pulled me out of my thoughts of Italian boys. My jaw dropped at the sight next door. Holy hotness! A shirtless guy that looked a little older than me, sprayed suds off a black jeep in my sixty-eight-year-old neighbor’s driveway. His muscles on full display. A tattoo flexed on his bicep with the flick of the hose. His dark hair curled at the ends and dipped into his face. Where did he come from and why was he at Mrs. White’s house? I swiped a palm over my mouth to make sure I didn’t have drool dripping down my chin.

 Just then Mrs. White zoomed up to check her mail on a hot-pink scooter with helmet to match. The sight of her sparked a grin. “Hi, Mrs. White. I like your new wheels.”

 “Hello, Tegan. She’s pretty, ain’t she?” Mrs. White rubbed her hand over the scooter. Bits of her white hair peeked out from under her helmet. Dark circles framed her emerald eyes.

 “Yes, she sure is.” I nodded. Mrs. White was like a grandma to me. I didn’t have grandparents growing up, and she’d taken me in like one of her own. She said that she saw a lot of herself in me. My eyes slipped from her to the shirtless wonder washing his jeep in her driveway. Mrs. White’s eyes followed mine and she let out a squeal, causing me to jump and fling my mail. “Do you remember Drewy? He decided to pay his grandma a visit. About time.” She waved a hand in the air and called out, “Drewy come over here and say hello to Tegan.”

 I dropped down to gather my scattered mail. Drewy. A fuzzy image a curly brown haired boy formed in my mind. We used to play together when we were little. He and his mom spent a lot of time at Mrs. White’s. One day, they up and moved to Michigan. I hadn’t seen him since. It never crossed my mind that it could be him next door. I rose and nearly tossed the mail all over again. Drewy McHottie was Andy!

You can find Sketches of My Soul on Goodreads

You can buy Sketches of My Soul on Amazon

If you sign-up for the author’s newsletter you can get a free copy of Sketches, the prequel novella to Sketches of My Soul.

About the Author:

TC Booth was born and raised in a small Ohio town where she currently lives with her husband, children, and fur covered baby Sammy.

She is an award winning author who loves to read and write young adult fiction. Besides her book addiction, TC enjoys music, attending Cavs games, going to the beach, eating chocolate and spending time with her family.

You can find and contact TC Booth here:


Giveaway

There’s a tour wide giveaway during the book blitz for Sketches of my Soul. One winner will win a $10 Amazon gift card!

For a chance to win, enter the rafflecopetr below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway



banner Lola's Blog Tours
Posted by Melanie at 4:00 AM 0 comments
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)