Friday, September 27, 2013

Cover Reveal: What's Left of Me, by Amanda Maxlyn

Release Date:  December 13, 2013

Summary

Life works in mysterious ways.

Four years ago I became known as the girl with cancer.

I refuse to cry.

And I refuse to give in.

A relationship with a man is the last thing I'm looking for right now, but one night with Parker changes everything.  He is persistent, and he know what he wants.  Me.

He doesn't treat me like I'm fragile.

But he doesn't know, and I'm not ready to tell him.

What if it changes everything?

Tragedy found me when I was seventeen.

Love found me when I was twenty-one.

My name is Aundrea McCall, and this is my journey.

Cover Designed By:  Mae I Design and Photography

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Teaser

I’m grateful when I reach the door to the ladies room that there isn’t anyone around. I reach for the handle when I hear from behind me, “Not going to use the men’s room again?” I know that sexy voice. It’s the same one as earlier this evening in this same area.
With my heart picking up pace, I turn around smiling sweetly, “No, I’m going to sit down and pee this time.” My smile spreads a little wider and I say a silent thanks to sweet baby Jesus for letting me find my voice this time.
He doesn’t respond. He just steps closer to me with the corner of his lips spreading upward.
I don’t breathe.
I can’t breathe. Not when he is this close.
God he smells amazing. Like a mixture of spice and mint. Maybe a hint of beer too. It's the type of scent that would awaken a primal desire within any female, and good God do I feel awakened.
“You ran off before I could thank you for the dance earlier.” No, thank you. His voice is a faint whisper and his face is now so close that our noses are almost touching. I glance down at his very attractive red lips just as the corners of his mouth move up into the most beautiful smile. Shit. He knows I’m looking at his lips.
I’m transfixed by him. In this very moment, I would do whatever he said or answer to any name he called; even if it was one of those fluffy names like baby or princess. All I can think about is the desire flowing through my body for those lips to be on mine. I would take him in this hallway. There I said it. Or, did I think it?
Do something.
Anything!
I look back at his lips.
I lick my own.
I can’t think about anything but wanting to feel his lips against mine. All thoughts go out the window of me not being able to pick up a man at a bar. I don’t care, but I will say any cheesy pick up line if it means I get to go home with him.
I know he’s watching me. He has to be thinking about my lips too because just then his tongue comes out licking his own. I try to think of something else to do, but nothing comes to mind. I feel him close the distance between us. He puts a finger under my chin for the second time tonight lifting my face so I’m looking right into his eyes. Without taking his eyes off mine he speaks in a quiet, low, raspy whisper, “I’m going to kiss you now.”
Without waiting for my permission, his lips crash down against mine. He takes my top lip into his mouth tugging ever so gently. I let out a soft moan as his tongue lightly traces my lips- tasting me. I can smell the fresh mint and beer off his breath and all I can think about is tasting it. I grab his neck brining him closer -opening my mouth- inviting him in. He groans as I wrap my arms around his neck running my hands through his hair.
Shit, if I die tomorrow, I can die a happy woman knowing this was my last kiss.
His tongue enters my mouth and I meet it with my own. He reaches down to lift me up and I let him. I wrap my legs around his waist just as he slams my back against the wall in the corner of the hallway. There’s a rush of pain that shoots down my legs causing me to cry out. He must take that as a cry of pleasure because he kisses me harder.
I feel my dress rise all the way to my waist exposing myself for anyone that walks by. My head falls back against the wall and he immediately starts kissing down my chin to my neck, then up to my earlobe bringing it into his mouth biting down. “Do you want to get out of here?” He whispers so softly into my ear I almost don’t think I hear him correctly. When he asks me again I just nod in agreement. Afraid if I were to say anything it wouldn’t be yes, and I really want it to be yes.
Setting me down, he runs his hands over my dress laying it back into place, then grabs my hand and starts speed walking away heading towards the red exit sign.
What’s Left of Me. Copyright 2013. Amanda Maxlyn. Unedited and Subject to Change. 


I am the mother of two little boys, married to the love of my life, and living in one of the smallest towns in Minnesota.  When I'm not chasing or cleaning up after my boys (yes, all three), I can be found writing or snuggled up with my kindle, a glass of wine, and spending time with my fictional friends and family.

Connect with Amanda on Facebook, Goodreads





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Thursday, September 26, 2013

Jet, by Jay Crownover

3.5 out of 5 stars

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Jet is the 2nd book in Jay Crownover's Marked Men series.  If you've read the first one, Rule, then you know one night Jet drove Shaw's best friend Ayden home after he performed and ever since Ayden hasn't really been herself.  This story picks up about a year after that fateful night, the one in which as it turns out Ayden threw herself at Jet only to find herself humiliated when he turned her down because he thought she deserved better than a one night stand.

From the moment I learned there would be a 2nd book in the series I knew it would be one I wanted to read.  When I started the book I was nervous wondering if I would fall for him and enjoy his and Ayden's story as much as I did Rule and Shaw's, I knew it would be a lot to live up to.  I liked this story and I like Jet, but he isn't Rule and while I enjoyed the book I didn't love it as much as I did Rule.

It really took until about the 50% mark before I felt vested in Ayden and Jet's story, it was like the book didn't get in rhythm until then.  However, once their story hit its stride the remainder was smooth sailing.  Jet and Ayden make a really great couple.  They fight their physical attraction and chemistry on a daily basis...neither one of them knowing what to do with it, but believing they're better off as friends.  Then one night things change, but will Ayden throw caution to the wind and really give Jet a chance?  Will Jet finally get over his fears of turning into his father and give love a real chance?  This couple has a lot of obstacles they must overcome if they're going to cast their fears aside, follow their hearts and actually commit to one another.

Some of the story is spent setting the stage for book #3, Rome.  I enjoyed getting an idea as to what his and Cora's journey may be about.  And of course there were glimpses of my favorite couple Rule and Shaw!  It was nice catching back up with the story lines and characters I came to care about in Rule.  My thoughts are if you liked Rule and want to catch back up with everyone then you definitely want to read Jet, he and Ayden may not have had the passion of Rule and Shaw but it was obvious they did love one another and but each had to work as individuals to figure out and go after what they wanted most.

Introduce yourself to the Marked Men series with book #1 Rule.

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You can also Pre-Order book # 3, Rome, which will release January 7, 2014.

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Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Blog Tour: Secrets of a Hart, by Elizabeth James

Synopsis:

Five years ago, Kendall  Hart's life changed forever.  A tragedy forced her to grow up fast and become a responsible adult overnight while her friends were still enjoying high school.  She lives and breathes work leaving no time for social life and her circle of friends is small.  She has no room for complications in her life...then Tristan walks in.

Tristan O'Neal is forced to return home when his father becomes terminally ill.  Taking care of his parents, dealing with irresponsible brother, and starting a new job bring challenges to his life.  Starting a relationship is the last thing on his mind but when sees Kendall, he finds himself drawn to her...she is so familiar.  

Tristan is what Kendall has always wanted but life isn't always fair.  Sometimes you have to let go of the one person you've always loved in order to protect them.  Will Tristan be able to break through the wall she's built around her heart or will Kendall's secrets consume her and destroy their chance at a life together?

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Excerpt:

I heard the sirens wailing as I came through the woods. My heart beat a little faster as I realized they were headed toward my end of the street. I sped up but stayed close to the edge of the woods so no one would see me. I certainly didn’t need to get caught when I should’ve been at home in bed. Suddenly, I caught a whiff of smoke and could hear the crackle of fire. As I cleared the tree line, I could see the flames leaping toward the sky and I instantly felt tears spring to my eyes. It was my house! I could barely breathe as my heart hammered in my chest like thunder. Running toward the house, I saw huge hoses snaking across the lawn all pointed toward the upper bedroom windows. My eyes scanned the crowd of people lined up on the sidewalk and I saw my neighbors but no one from my family. With legs feeling like lead, I sprinted toward the back door but a fireman, who was rounding the side of the house with an axe thrown across his shoulder, saw me and intercepted my attempt to go in. I screamed but with no sound. Fighting him by scratching and clawing, I managed to break free but soon another strong pair of arms wrapped around me like a vise. Tears streaming down my face, I finally managed to scream out, “My family! They’re in there! Help them!” I heard one of the firemen call on his radio to alert the others about possible victims and hearing that word caused me to collapse against the man holding me. There was a buzzing in my ears, my tongue felt tingly, then I spiraled into darkness.
“Noooo!” I cried as I thrashed around in my bed, sweat beading on my forehead, damp sheets tangling around my legs. It was that nightmare again, inspired by my own horrible reality. I could feel every emotion, smell every smell, just as if I was there that night almost five years ago. My heart was pounding, my mouth dry as I lay there panting as if I’d just run the same distance I did that night. With a trembling hand, I wiped my tear-dampened cheeks then reached over to click on the lamp beside my bed to chase away the darkness for at least a few minutes. After my eyes adjusted to the brightness, I could see the tiny tattoo on my wrist. Laying back against my pillow, I traced it with my finger remembering every moment of pain the day I’d gotten it done. The pain I’d felt in my skin couldn’t erase the emptiness in my heart but would be a constant reminder of my loss and guilt. Turning my head, I glanced over at my nightstand and my eyes locked on the simple silver frame that held the only salvageable photo of my family. A fireman had retrieved it from the rubble. It was water-damaged and scorched on the edges but was the most precious thing to me. It was the only physical proof they’d been alive once and that we’d been a happy family. 

About Author Elizabeth James:
Elizabeth James is the author of the Design Series. She writes contemporary romance set in her native North Carolina. A life-long reader, she began writing a novel at age fifteen, put it away with no hopes of publication, but now has realized her dream as an adult. Inspired by several bestselling authors she began working as a beta reader and her passion for writing once again surfaced. She embarked on a journey to see if she could complete a novel and Love by Design was born. With warm reception to her first novel she is now making this crazy world a part of her life. Elizabeth believes you're never too late in life to realize your dreams and this has opened up a new world of adventures and meeting new people which she loves to do. Elizabeth lives in North Carolina with her husband and their dogs. She enjoys traveling, exploring North Carolina, and spending time with her friends.


C0nnect with Elizabeth - Facebook
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Buy Secrets of a Hart - Amazon

Elizabeth James has graciously given us 2 ebooks to giveaway.  Hurry and enter below!

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Review:
3.5 out of 5 stars

Kendall and Tristan were such a like able couple, one I found myself rooting for throughout the entire book.  This is a story about two people who are inexplicably drawn to one another.  From their first touch it's as if Tristan's soul spoke to Kendall's on a level no on had ever before or since.  She has silently been in love with him for years, so when he comes back into her life out of the blue she is both surprised and nervous.  Surprise turns into hopefulness as he per sues her.  The more time they spend together the more Kendall realizes the real Tristan is far more perfect in reality than it had been in her dreams.  But will they be able to survive the secrets of her past and the dangers of her present?

I enjoyed this story and definitely saw the chemistry between Tristan and Kendall.  It was a sweet story, but one that I felt was somewhat rushed.  I would have loved to of seen Tristan spend more time wooing Kendall, to have seen a slower development of their relationship.  It felt like they got together and fell in love super fast and only enjoyed each other a day or two before waves rocked their new relationship.  While I understood the actions of each, I thought Tristan should have fought harder, not given up so easily, not taken so long to finally spring into action.  On the other hand I viewed Kendall as a strong woman, one who had survived some serious hardships, yet found it hard to believe she was so easily manipulated.  While I knew this couple were meant to be together and eventually would, I wasn't as emotionally vested in them as I typically like to be when reading a book.  For me I think it's just because the story happened and was over too quickly.  

Their HEA was very sweet and you are left wondering the fate of the next book's character's.  While it was a quick for me I definitely enjoyed it.  If you are already an Elizabeth James fan I'm sure you're going to love this book as well. 

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Simple Perfection, by Abbi Glines

4.5 out of 5 stars

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Simple Perfection picks up right where Twisted Perfection left us.  Woods' father unexpectedly died leaving him solely responsible for Kerrington Country Club and Della is back with him where she belongs.  Woods knows Della is the one for him, there is absolutely no doubt in his mind and all he wants is to take care of her, which in his mind includes keeping her away from any stressed induced situation.  Della on the other hand is paralyzed by her fears of going mentally insane like both her mother and grandmother.  She believes she isn't what's best or what Woods needs in his life and that eventually she will be a burden to big for him to bear.  She has however decided she is going to enjoy her time with him until its no longer an option.

Confession time...when I first started to read Twisted Perfection my gut kept telling me there is no way Woods would even compare to Rush and no way that his story will be as good as the original Rosemary heartthrob.  I never expected Woods to blow my mind, but he did and I fell in love with him and Della as a couple.  Simple Perfection simply cemented that love.  This book was so good!  I love Abbi Glines and with the exception of Sometimes it Lasts I have read all her books.  I had just said to my blog partner last week, what I really need is a good Abbi Glines book to get me out of my reading funk.  Well, I can honestly say Simple Perfection didn't disappoint.

There was plenty of good drama delivered in the form of Angelina, Woods' ex-fiance, and his mother who wants nothing to do with Della and tries to make things harder for him at the Club.  Then there was Della's dealings with her own demons and whether or not she believed she was deserving of Woods' love.  Couple those things with the fact in trying to help Della and protect her Woods inadvertently smothers Della, when it all becomes to much Della enlists the help of an old friend and runs, leaving Woods completely shattered.  

It wasn't an easy journey for this couple but eventually they find their way back to one another and get their perfect Abbi Glines happily ever after.  Woods in my mind is absolutely amazing...so patient, so caring, completely devoted and wildly passionate about the ones he loves.  He is forced to make some tough decisions in this book and watching it all unfold was something else entirely.  Major things happen in this book, developments and events which took me completely by surprise.  I mean I never saw the twists coming!  I cannot wait to see how the events which took place in Simple Perfection play out in the remainder Rosemary Beach sequels.  I absolutely know it's going to make for some pretty interesting future stories.  

For me the icing on the cake was getting to see more Rush, Blair and baby Nate.  Not to mention Tripp, Bethy, Jace and of course Grant.  Oh and how could I forget Dean Finley, he also makes an appearance, and I cannot help but love the comedic relief he brings to these stories.  I feel attached and invested in the stories of all these characters and cannot wait until the next Rosemary Beach book.  Don't for one second hesitate to buy and read Simple Perfection.  It was a really fun read, with lots of heat, a dose of crazy, and plenty of drama.  It's kind of like a really good soap opera, only better!

If you haven't already entered our giveaway for a kindle copy of Simple Perfection you can do so below:

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Monday, September 23, 2013

Happy Release Day - Abbi Glines - Simple Perfection

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It's here!  It's here!  Abbi Gline's Simple perfection just went live today.  As soon as we saw the good news we one clicked what we are sure will be another great book from the amazing Abbi Glines.  Simple Perfection is the continuation of of Wood's and Della's story.  This is Book #2 of Perfection and # 5 in the Rosemary Beach series.

Synopsis:

Woods had his perfect life mapped out for him.  Rise up the ranks of the family business.  Marry the rich girl of his parents' dreams.  Pretend that wealth and privilege was all he'd ever wanted.  Then a girl named Della breezed into town, a beautifully imperfect stranger who captured his heart and opened his eyes to a new kind of future.  Woods is ready and willing to sacrifice everything for her when the sudden death of his father leaves him with his mother to care for and a business to manage.

Della is determined to be strong for Woods, even as she's quietly falling to pieces.  No matter how fare from home she's run, the ghosts of her past have never stopped haunting her.  Struggling to hide her true feelings from Woods, Della fears she can't be his rock without dragging him down into the darkness with her.  But is she strong enough to let go of the last thing holding her together?

Enter below for a chance to win a kindle ebook copy of Simple Perfection, gifted by Romance Rewind

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Wednesday, September 18, 2013

This Much Is True, by Katherine Owen and Giveaway

5 out of 5 stars

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It’s been a while since I’ve been on such an intense emotional roller coaster journey through what I would consider a great book.  I found myself completely engrossed in this story by the 3% mark, which I consider a pretty rare fete.  It’s definitely not your typical New Adult book where you’ll find a tattoo covered, swoon-worthy bad boy who falls in love with a virgin beauty whose hiding some dark secret, opens up to said boy, they fall in love, make each other better people with fuller lives all while discovering the wonderful world of sexuality.  Tally Landon and Lincoln Presley don’t entirely fit those descriptions and their story definitely isn’t that cut and dry.

Lincoln Presley, 22, is a star college baseball player who’s being scouted by the major leagues and on his way to stardom.  He lives for baseball, its all he thinks about and all he has time for.  Tally Landon, 17, is an aspiring ballet dancer on her way to being a famous prima ballerina.  She also lives for dance, lives for the chance to achieve her dream, and like Linc her passion is all she thinks about or has time for.  Neither one can afford to let anything stand in the way of their dreams so throughout the book they each make choices and decisions in their lives often based off of their shared fears of falling, failing and losing, which they believe ultimately will allow them to reach their desired goals.

One Valentine’s Day a chance encounter in the form of a tragic accident allows fate it’s first opportunity to intertwine the lives of Lincoln and Tally when he saves her.  This brief brush with fate changes them both as individuals and seemingly alters the course of their lives.  Lincoln cannot shake the “image of her beautiful devastated face and haunting green emerald green eyes” he has no idea as to her name but desperately wants to know how she is and frantically searches for her in all the hospitals nearby.  Even months later he cannot get her out of his mind.  The accident has left Tally grief-stricken and her loss seems to follow her everywhere, she knows life must go on yet she cannot seem to figure out how.  She focuses all her energy into ballet and following the plan she once made with her twin sister Holly. 

Tally desperately needs a break from her life so she agrees to accompany her best friend Marla (who is like a sister and always gives her a never ending supply of love, support an encouragement and who I found to be a very vital and lovable character) to a college party, one where no one will know of her or the tragedy.  However, fate again plays its part holding the party at Lincoln Presley’s cousin’s house. It’s at the party Lincoln and Tally officially meet.  Calling him Elvis, Tally immediately finds herself attracted to him and he makes her feel things and open up in ways she never has before.  In the continued effort to escape her past she pretends to be her sister Holly, it’s her first lie.  Lincoln, realizing she has no recognition of him but wanting to know more about her, makes the decision to spend time with her, to at least find out her name, but he also decides not to reveal he knows the grief and darkness of her past.  His first lie is one of omission. 

As the night goes on Tally continues the lies even though at times she oddly finds herself being more truthful with him than anyone else ever before.  Tally and Elvis connect not only in a physical way but also on a deep emotional level.  It’s just one night and in the morning life goes on, hers with ballet and his with baseball, absolutely nothing must keep them from their potentials and subsequently their dreams.  But what if it isn’t just one night, what if this connection with one another won’t go away?  As their lives move forward fate continues it game.

This couldn’t have been an easy story to write because it wasn’t always an easy one to read about, especially when you find yourself completely vested in each character’s happiness.  I was an emotional wreck, sometimes from anticipating the train wrecks their lies and decisions were causing and sometimes from being floored when outcomes I never dreamed of happening were transpiring.

Tally and Lincoln are genuine characters with real flaws and real imperfections.  They’re young and they struggled to fully to see how small decisions and innocent lies affected their lives and ultimately their happiness.  When fame came for each of them life only seemed to get harder.  The road to fame isn’t an easy one and in the case of Lincoln and Tally it was one full of regrets.  Katherine Owen did such an amazing job highlighting each of their careers and the sacrifices they made to ensure not only their success but also the successes of each other. 

Tally makes some really tough choices in this book.  It was interesting to see how the accident and her eventual transformation afterwards affected the decisions she was making.  The book tackles so many hard themes but it’s written so beautifully.  I literally lost track of time.  I started the book late one afternoon and didn’t put it down until I was finished at 1:00am.  It’s the next day and I still cannot get it off my mind.  From their first interaction it was obvious to me these two were meant for each other and while it took so long for them to each find their way back I never lost hope they would get their HEA.  Their ending is beautiful.  I can honestly say when I finished the book I didn’t have any lingering questions, their story wrapped up perfectly without any loose ends.

It’s been months since I felt so emotionally impacted by a book, I highly recommend you give This Much Is True a chance.  It's not just a love story it's a life story about learning to love yourself first.  This story is so much more than you can imagine or than I ever expected. 

It’s been a while since our last giveaway so we decided it was time for another one.  Romance Rewind will gift 2 Kindle Ebook copies of This Much Is True.  Hurry and enter below, winners will be chosen on Saturday, that’s only 3 days away!  Which means you  can win a new book to read this weekend!

Monday, September 16, 2013

My Unexpected Forever (The Beaumont Series #2), by Heidi McLaughlin

4.5 out of 5 stars

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My Unexpected Forever is a beautiful journey through emotions to find healing and love.  It's about learning to move on when you're life goes in a direction you never imagined coming.  It's the 2nd book of The Beaumont Series and while I guess you don't have to read the 1st, Forever My Girl, you may have a harder time picking up on pieces of the story if you haven't.

From the first moment Harrison met Katelyn he knew she was special and needed her in his life.  The only problem is she's still grieving the unexpected death of her high school sweetheart husband and father of her twin daughters.  Knowing he needs her in his life, even if it's only as friends, Harrison find ways to interact with Katelyn, whether it's mowing her grass or helping her with the details of her new job as the band's manager.  He wants nothing more than to be her support, to be the one she trusts, to be the one she confides in and opens herself up to.  He doesn't want to take the place of her husband he just longs for her to find a place in her heart for him.

Katelyn finds herself drawn to Harrison and his son Quinn but fights the feelings.  After all, Harrison cannot possibly be her type, he is the polar opposite of her husband, covered in tattoos, someone her mother would never approve of and what would people in Beaumont say.  She loves her husband, he is the love of her life even if he isn't alive and she plans to live the rest of her life faithful to him.  So as you can see there is no way she can be attracted to Harrison or even consider any kind of future with him, other than possibly friendship.  Why is it though she finds herself wanting to see him, wanting to ask questions, not wanting him to give attention to other women?

This is a beautiful story in which two characters find love when they least expect it and their lives taking a path they never envisioned.  It wasn't instant and it certainly wasn't easy.  I loved Katelyn's character.  Her inner dialogue, thought process and eventual actions were 100% genuine and completely relate able.  I cannot even imagine having to pick up the pieces of my life like she did with her own, talk about strength.  And let's not forget what a compassionate, patient, understanding man Harrison ends up being.  My heart went out to him on more than one occasion when his feelings or heart wound up being trampled.  He was persistent  with a heart of gold and some seriously pure intentions.  I honestly couldn't help but fall for this seemingly "bad-boy" who deep down was a genuinely good man.

I also love Katelyn and Harrison's story wasn't rushed and it wasn't solely focused on the two of them.  The whole book kind of had a familial feel, which I think only added to the depth of the story.  Of course by the end its all wrapped up with a nice red yet completely realistic bow.  Fans of The Beaumont Series will be pleased to know they get to see plenty more from Liam and Josie including their wedding!  My Unexpected Forever was a great addition to The Beaumont Series and a truly enjoyable book.  Don't hesitate to jump into this story.

Tuesday, September 10, 2013

Cover Reveal: Come and Get Me, by Jillian Dodd

We are so excited for the opportunity to reveal the cover, designed by Okay Creations, for Book 6 in The Keatyn Chronicles!


Release Date:  August 31, 2014

Go ahead and add this next installment to your Goodreads TBR list.

 

If you haven't already been sucked into this amazing and addictive series what are you waiting for???  

Stalk Me, the first installment is still FREE on many sites (it doesn't get much better than FREE so why not give Keatyn a chance?):
Amazon - FREE
B&N - $.99
iTunes - Free
Kobo - Free
Find Stalk Me on Goodreads

Kiss Me
Find Kiss Me on Goodreads

Date Me
Find Date Me on Goodreads

Love Me
Find Love Me on Goodreads

Adore Me (book 4.5) Available for Pre-Order
Find Adore Me on Goodreads

Hate Me - Soon available for pre-order, add to your Goodreads list

Come and Get Me - Will be released soon for pre-order, add to your Goodreads list

About the Author
Hey everyone!! I'm Jillian Dodd, author of the That Boy series. That Boy and That Wedding. I'm working on a new series called The Keatyn Chronicles as well as plotting out That Baby. I love to read, love hanging out at goodreads, and love to talk to y'all!! 


I was lucky enough to find my own prince in college. We have two wonderful teenaged children, a Maltese named Sugar Bear and a new Lab puppy named Camber Lacey.
I have an active blog, which my daughter, Kenzie, helps me with. We'd love to have you visit us there. I am a big believer in giving back, so I donate a portion of my book sales to charity!!
Connect with Jillian:


Monday, September 9, 2013

Wethering the Storm, by Samantha Towle

4.5 out of 5 stars

 
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Wethering the Storm is the much anticipated follow-up to Samantha Towle's The Mighty Storm, and let me just say...you won't be disappointed!  I certainly wasn't and if anything at the end I found myself even more enamoured with Jake Wethers. 

The book picks up right after we left Jake and Tru at the end of The Mighty Storm, he's just proposed, she's accepted, they're madly in love and are willing to work through whatever trials life throws at them because they've realized they belong together.  Basically life is good and hoping to make the most of their recent engagement Jake has wisked the two of them off to a private island in order to ensure their privacy and allow them some much needed alone time.  I LOVED being able to see these two so blissfully happy and madly in love.  They definitely deserved this time away to enjoy each other and the relationship they fought so hard to even have.

However, as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, so after a relaxing and romantic vaction Jake and Tru pack up and head home to Hollywood.  For the most part things in LA are really good, except Tru is somewhat homesick and having a hard time dealing with the "ghosts" of past conquests living within the walls of Jake's home, Jake announces he has no desire to have kids yet Tru definitely wants them, women are still throwing themselves at Jake hoping he will return to his "bad-boy" ways, the papparazzi follows them everywhere and they still have those pesky trust and communication issues to work through.  So while it's clear these two share a deep, passionate, soul-mate kind of love they have to decide once and for all if they've got what it takes as indivuduals to commit to one another no matter what.

If you enjoyed The Mighty Storm, then you're going to love Wethering the Storm!  To be honest I think I may have even enjoyed this sequel even better than the original.  I know it seems impossible, but honestly I love these two characters and with this installment you get to see more of them as a couple, working through things together.  It's no longer a question of whether or not they love the other, but more so about seeing them as an actual couple and trying to live their "real" lives together, conquering obstacles together, celebrating milestones together.  I think it's one of the reasons I like the 2nd book better.  They are a fun couple and it's so interesting to see how they're going to react to the different situations they are thrust in, and let me tell you they are thrown some serious curve balls in this book. 

As with the first book you get to see plenty more of the secondary characters, whom I love, especially Stuart.  You also get to see a little more of Tom, even a different side, which may surprise you and I'm especially excited to see what his book's going to be about.  Another thing you can look forward to in this book is alternating POV's.  I really loved this aspect and especially enjoyed being inside Jake's head from time to time.

This is an emotionally packed book so be prepared.  You're going to be grinning like a fool, crying like a baby, on the verge of a nervous breakdown and by the end blissfully happy for Jake and Trudy.  I couldn't have asked for a single thing more from this book and when the last page of the epilouge was read I felt satisfied.  Well done Samantha Towle, you truly outdid yourself with these characters and Wethering the Storm, it was a perfect journey.  Thank you for such an amazing "book-high!"  It was one that won't easily be forgotten.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Stripped, by Jasinda Wilder

4.5 out of 5 stars

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Stripped begins with the introduction of Grey Amundesn, a pastor's daughter, living in small town Macon Georgia.  She's an only child whose lived a strict life under the very watchful eye of her father, who believes everything most teenagers would consider fun a sin.  Grey feels as though her father doesn't understand anything about her and if it weren't for the close bond with her mother would feel very much alone.  

Grey's passion is dance, it makes her feel alive, allows her to express herself in a freeing way and is something she excels at.  While her father wasn't originally on board with her mother's help he has agreed to allow the activity as long as her dances are appropriate and her costumes respective, nothing seductive will be tolerated.  Honestly, up to this point all I could think of were the similarities to Footloose, which I didn't mind because I LOVE that movie!  Her dance classes open the doors to friendships, which eventually exposes Grey to parties and boys, however throughout it all Grey never does anything her father would consider compromising.  

As time progresses Grey begins to develop an interest in film, not acting but creating and producing.  She desperately wants to attend a film school in California but of course her father won't allow her to go (in his mind she needs to meet a nice Christian guy who plans to pastor a church, get married and become a pastor's wife).  Again, with her mother's help she applies and not only gets accepted but also earns a scholarship to pay the way.  While she is joyous she's found a way to go tragedy strikes the Amundesn family ripping Grey and her father apart.  Without his blessing, help or money Grey packs up to follow her dreams in California.

As you can imagine life in California isn't easy and the $400 she left with doesn't stretch very far.  Determined to make it on her on Grey searches for part-time employment, however without any job experience Grey continues to find herself unemployed.  With deadlines approaching and bills to pay the only job she can find is as a stripper!  Let the fun and story officially begin!

We both really loved this book and found ourselves easily relating with Grey.  We think it's because both of us were born and raised in the south in southern Baptist homes, which we are proud of, but which also gives us first hand experience as to what Grey's life was like and could easily relate with how she felt.  When you grow up in the Bible belt, you can certainly plan on experiencing judgmental people and let us tell you, Jasinda Wilder completely nailed the descriptions of Grey's experiences and reactions.  We can promise that if we were ever forced to strip for a living, we would probably die of humiliation and throw up every night as well.

This story was full of characters we could relate to and there will be some you find yourself hating and some whom you won't be able to help but love.  We found ourselves laughing, crying and struggling right along with Grey as she dealt with guilt, shame and then felt complete when she eventually found herself and allowed herself the happiness she deserved.

As previously mentioned Grey's father is a southern Baptist preacher and is ultra strict.  He has ingrained it in Grey's mind that anything fun is of the devil and is a sin.  It's a shame some people believe that to be true, and believe me there people who feel this way.  However, we found ourselves irritated with him because it's as though he never listens to Grey, never wants to compromise, it's as though he's forgotten his first role to her isn't pastor but father.  By the end of the book we're happy to say he redeemed himself some.  On the other hand Grey's mom was such a lovable character, very sweet, super supportive and silently strong.  We can only hope to be that good of a mother to our own daughters.  What a great example of a mother and certainly a great addition to the book.

Now let's talk about the book's main man...Dawson Kellor, let the swooning begin!  He has to be one of the top book boyfriends of all time, he's just fabulous!  He always puts Grey above himself and just wants to make her happy.  Let me tell you, Dawson absolutely backs up all his words and promises with some serious actions.  He is strong, intuitive, sensitive, really he's the whole package.  And it doesn't hurt he's a top Hollywood actor whose just landed the role of Rhett Butler in a remake of Gone with the wind (the best movie of all time and a true southern classic!  Yeah, that definitely made us love him even more.  What girl could ever resist Rhett Butler?).  Those things aside what further continued our love affair with Dawson is that he encourages Grey to open her eyes, answer questions for herself, form her own opinion, embrace her past.  It also didn't hurt getting to read in great detail about some of those eye opening experiences, they were intense and yep I'm going to say it they were pretty darn hot as well!  

Don't worry, you won't be disappointed, this book is filled with lots of smut, however, that's not what makes it such a good read.  It's a great book because the story is just so good and because Dawson and Grey make a really great couple.  While some may find this book and story line predictable it was a really fun journey and one we really are glad we took a chance on.  There wasn't a lot of unnecessary drama in Stripped, but we are okay with that.  Not all books need to throw curve balls at you to be good.  This is just a well written story that captivates you from beginning to end.
 



Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Retribution (Mystic Series #4), by B.C. Burgess

5 out of 5 stars

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I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review...

Retribution picks up right were we left Quin and Layla at the end of Deception.  They've just consummated their relationship and are now a bonded couple.  While they're overwhelmed with happiness they realize their lives are even more in danger than before because once Argo discovers what's happened they will either be forced to join his ranks or die refusing. 

Now a bonded couple, Quin and Layla are even more powerful than before and Layla believes something good should come from this power and has chosen not to live the rest of her life in hiding.  She wants to stand up to Argo and fight to keep the family she has only just found.  With the knowledge they may only have a few days left to live Quin and Layla make the most of their time together never wasting a moment to express their love and devotion to one another.  Retribution is filled with some serious passion, yes that means you are going to get plenty of hot and steamy love scenes, all of them so emotionally charged and are probably some of the most beautiful sex scenes I've ever read.  

If possible it seems as though Quin is even more romantic and swoon-worthy in this story while also showing a side of dominance and let me tell you it's HOT!  He always knows the perfect thing to say or do to make Layla completely at ease, always showing her support and encouragement when it's needed.  Now that they've bonded he is even more protective of her and their relationship and I love how he always puts her needs and wants above his own, he always wants her to be comfortable in whatever situation they find themselves.  He is ALWAYS thinking of her, this man is so totally in love with Layla he would literally give up his own life to save hers.  Talk about undying devotion!  

I have to confess I loved getting to see more Weylin, Kegan and Brietta.  Wey and Bri seem to steal the scenes they're in with their humor and straightforward questions/observations.  I love the comedic relief these two provide, its a nice break from story's overall intensity.  I hope we get to see much more of them in the coming books because I've really developed a sense of fondness for all three.

As with all the books in this series Retribution is written with such beautiful, vivid descriptions it's as if you are living the story, seeing Layla's amazing magic tricks right out on the lawn with the other coven members.  In the heat of the battle it's as if you are fighting alongside of Quin and Layla.  Talk about talented writing.  B.C. Burgess has truly outdone herself with this book.

While Retribution is filled with plenty of happiness you are constantly reminded a dark storm is quickly approaching, a battle which may or may not be won, but one that certainly could take the lives of some of our most favorite characters.  So pull out the tissues because you are going to need them!  B.C. Burgess is going to bring you to tears, I'm certain of it.

You are not going to believe the epilogue, talk about throwing you for a loop!  I can guarantee you won't see the ending coming!  It's intense, it's crazy, it's going to make you second guess everything you thought you already knew!  I'm so nervous to see what's going to happen next in Destruction, but I can hardly wait for the next book to release.

If you  haven't already taken a chance on The Mystic Series what are you waiting for?  This is such a great series and you can still get Descension, the first book for FREE!

Also, don't forget to enter our Retribution Release Day Giveaways, you can find the details here.








Monday, September 2, 2013

Retribution Release Day Giveaways

Happy Release Day B.C. Burgess!!!!  We are so excited to let everyone know book #4 of The Mystic Series, Retribution has officially gone live!

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Synopsis:

Layla
Enduring brutal attacks and heartbreak, Layla Callaway's life would be unbearable if she didn't have a hero willing to fly to the ends of the earth to protect her.  Their bond is stronger than ever, but so is the danger she faces.

Quin
Quin Kavanagh's purpose has never been clearer.  He lives to protect Layla and hold a piece of her extraordinary heart, but he's about to face the fight of his life, and this battle may mark the end of it.

The Enemy
Argo's hunt started twenty-two years ago - a journey of death, destruction and obsession.  Now the prey is within his sights, and he'll burn the whole world down to catch her.

Stretching from coast to coast and teeming with loathed villains and beloved heroes, The Mystic Series is rich with emotion, magic and intrigue.  Whether the reader is laughing, crying or falling in love, they'll find themselves invested in Layla's fate through the rich dialogue and emotionally driven characters that weave the web of this fiery tale.




If you haven't already discovered this amazing series you can still download Descension (Mystic Series #1) for FREE!!!  

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Once you've downloaded Descension enter this amazing giveaway courtesy of G&C Book Blog.

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For those of you who find themselves in love with The Mystic Series and are looking for a place to chat about theories, voice your opinion and connect with other fans join The Mystic Coven on Facebook.

In honor of Retribution's release author B.C. Burgess has graciously put together a giveaway.  There will be a 2nd prize as well as a Grand Prize, which means 2 lucky winners!  Take a look at what's up for grabs and enter below:



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