"Romance Thursday": Uneven Exchange by S.K. Derban

Genre: Romantic Suspense, Thriller, Mystery. 269 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Publisher & Date: Limitless Publishing LLC. September 1, 2015.

Book Link: Click Here

Listed Rating:  . 2

Price I Paid: Zip,**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**

My Rating:   

My Thoughts: DEA OPS, Miscommunications, and Faith

     Books intertwining faith are always a welcomed surprise for me, but also make me leary too as the stories sometimes fall flat. However, this story was filled with great dialogue and a story which was suspenseful, but lacked a real sense of romance and complete plot development. 
     Trying to relax, clear her mind, and feelings about her business partner, Alexandra 'Alex' Callet, hopes that her time in Mexico will help refocus her life. Little did Alex know that her time in Mexico would be more fruitful than just rejuvenating. While out and about Alex is spotted by undercover DEA agents and later approached back home in San Diego by Senior Officer Kevin O'Neil. Alex is give the opportunity to help the DEA in a special operation to catch a killer by posing as his sister, Daniela, whom Alex just so happens to be a mirror image of. But to be put into play as a new agent for the DEA and focus on the mission, Alex will have to distance herself from Jake Taylor, the man she can't help but love. The only problem is Alex may not be able to completely pass as Daniela or there might be leaks in the DEA, with all the 'IF's that could go wrong Alex knows she has one thing to rely on her faith.
     Overall, this book has great characters, witty banter and dialogue, but the chemistry infused lacked and some plot points were left unfinished. Alex is definitely a strong beautiful lead character, perhaps too strong, which bugged me a little bit only because she transitioned from civilian to agent so easily; When I'd assume Alex would have been used as an asset, but what do I know I'm not a DEA agent. The chemistry was kinda dull, probably because it was secondary, which is okay in the sense the book was about the mission. But I really didn't need a HEA with Alex and Jack, probably because they were both so clueless about their feelings for one another. Truly I enjoyed the dialogue it was easy going and even the usage of Spanish was well placed; My only wish was the transition into the faith moment would have been smoother and not so placed. Oh and there was one sex scene that felt completely random despite it being a married couple, it didn't feel necessary, I liked their flirtations. So if you are up for a story about a woman going from decoration to DEA undercover agent with beauty and faith all to help her country and herself in the end, then this book would be good to try.

"N.A. Tuesday": Catching Fox by Aimee McNeil

Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance. 349 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Publisher & Date: Limitless Publishing LLC. December 22, 2015.

Book Link: Click Here

Listed Rating:  . 2

Price I Paid: Zip,**I received a free copy in return for an honest review**

My Rating:  

My Thoughts: The Heart Wants What It Wants

        This book left me conflicted, on one hand I actually loved how sweet the ending was and the stories resolution, but the main relationship just seemed too toxic for anyone to be okay with. The story is about loving someone so deeply that no one else can fill that spot, and understanding people have good in them even when others only see the harsh exterior.

        At the age of 6, young Adalynne Fairweather found herself completely enchanted with a green eyed boy who appeared in her backyard one day, sad and alone. From that moment on Adalynne promise to care for the boy whom she named Fox. Adalynne's life is one of privilege, but her precious moments are spent with Fox. It isn't until High School that Adalynne sees the other side to her Fox and she is devastated to find out he doesn't feel the same way as her. Fox and Adalynne drift further and further apart as their lives continue on, but they continue to be drawn back to one another in desperate consuming ways. If only Fox would admit he is worth the love Adalynne can't help but feel for him before he is lost for good.

       Overall, this novel was meant to be very emotional, but I felt a disconnect from the main characters and their connection seemed more hurtful than helpful. The snippets in the beginning show Adalynne and Fox interactions growing up, but it slowed the plot down, seeming almost pointless when the author has Adalynne flashback to the same moments later on in the story. Fox wasn't given a voice in the book, till the epilogue, so you lack any insight into his emotions other than his constant hot-cold reactions to his "Bee". Their relationship was tumultuous and raw, filled with memories of childhood affection mixed with new found adult yearnings. One problem I had was how every time Fox and Adalynne met up it was never just to talk, but always seemed to end in bed, which only perpetuated their misunderstandings and lack of stated love. The relationship seemed unhealthy to a huge degree, but since they never entered a "real" relationship no one in Adalynne's life seemed concerned for her trying to be involved in such a tattered relationship. So if you are looking for a book about a couple who found love as children but thought they weren't meant for each other because of life circumstances, you may like this book and I found it an okay read.

Hey, It's A Book Tour for "Love Lonely" by William C. Cole

by William C. Cole

Book 1, in A Love Lonely Novel Series

"Love Lonely" 

Genre: Mystery, Contemporary Romance. 398 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Book Link: Click Here

SYNOPSIS

When an injury forced David into an early retirement from his professional hockey career, he accepted a position to oversee the operations of his father-in-law’s thoroughbred horse-racing division. 

 David’s wife Sandy is referred to as one of the most influential and beautiful women in the world. However, her official role as the family’s philanthropist requires an exhaustive amount of time away from home. 

 Upon her return from a recent trip, Sandy took notice of her husband’s attraction to his assistant trainer Renée, instantly recognizing the magnetism between them. 

 Renée is a petite young French girl who is suddenly given the opportunity to work closely with David soon after the head trainer is forced to resign. 

 Now traveling companions, with each passing day, the sexual tension between the two intensifies. Sandy knows all too well that she is on the verge of losing her husband. Will she be able to alter her existing lifestyle to save him? 

 Or is it too late…

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My Rating:   

My Thoughts: Deception, Espionage, Affairs and . . . Horse Racing!?

     To say this book was unlike any I've read before is a true fact. After reading a few chapters I had to stop and reread the book blurb just to make sure I was reading the right book. The different characters and situations they are set in which are all tied together leave you going Wow! What a story?!

       Sandy McGinnis-Watson appears to have it all: a loving caring devoted husband and wealthy doting father, her job is flying around the world as the family philanthropist  asking others for donations towards fundraisers. The only thing is her time away from home keeps her away more and more causing strains on her relationships. Sandy loves her jet setting lifestyle especially when she has something else to do while abroad in foreign lands, but those secrets can't be revealed even to her husband, David. While his wife is away David begins to realize his life is lonely without his wife even with keeping busy in the family venture of horse racing. So when he begins to find the company of the new head trainer Renee an inviting option to his wife's abstinence, David is torn. With each of Sandy's trip pushing the appeal of Renee closer and closer David, the question will be can Sandy fix her lifestyle before losing that which she loves?

        Overall, it was a good book which had me reading page after page, but always had me wanting more character and scene development. The story had so many things going for it but too many situations at the same time that had the end wrapping up too quickly. The main characters were Sandy and her husband David, but Sandy and just her life was more than enough to fill a book, in fact I wish the author had kept focus on her more than her husband at times. David as a character was okay but felt unfinished, he feels lonely and begins to seek completeness in Renee who is there when his wife is gone doing her thing. His life could have been a separate story and subsequently the point of the title and book blurb, but when you thrown is Sandy's life and its extra activities the book becomes too overwhelming. Renee as a character is also a complex mystery by the end of the book so I hope in the sequel more is revealed about this character since she is definitely more than a pleasure seeker-live for the moment- horse whisper. My other big issue is the fact there would be scene changes mid paragraphs making me stop reading and double check what I was reading, which really impeded the flow of the story for me. So if you are up for reading a book that is full of mystery, relationships, excitement centered around family and espionage and horse racing, than you may want to try this book out. 

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    William C. Cole

Author Links: Amazon Page, Facebook, Website, Twitter.

I was born in Toronto and raised in Northern Ontario, Canada, where I currently reside. My wife Diane has been by my side for 34 years, which I believe should propel her directly into sainthood. I have been blessed with an amazing and supportive family.

Creativity has always been a part of my journey. Writing seems to be a natural extension to my years in the music industry, where I had the pleasure of listening to songs I penned being played on the radio. 

When not working, sleeping, biking, or writing, I am on the golf course trying to keep up with my sons Lee and Aaron. 

Hey, It's A Review Tour for "Keeping The Tarnished" by Bradon Nave

by Bradon Nave

"No one is disposable."

Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Psychological Thriller. 250 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Book Link: Click Here 

- SYNOPSIS -

Johnny Tregalis leaves home the minute he turns eighteen, but he’s the only one who knows why…

Arriving in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Johnny has nothing—not even a plan. Local veterinarian Jackson Everett notices the boy, who reminds him of his own teenage son, and offers him a bed for the night.

Meeting Jackson’s wife Graye, his son Jared, and four-year-old daughter Bryce, Johnny sees a family he could never imagine. He’d been raised by his abusive father after his mother disappeared with his younger brother, and he’s sure he’ll be packed off to a shelter in the morning. He can’t believe it when he’s invited to stay indefinitely.

Johnny refuses to discuss his traumatic past as he attempts to fit in…

The Everetts try to help the profoundly troubled teen, but he seems to be at the mercy of his own mind. He’s held captive by flashbacks, excruciating night terrors, and a mounting inability to distinguish delusion from reality. How can he possibly recover, go to school, have friends…have a life?

Physical scars only hint at deeper psychological devastation…

As the shocking truth comes to light, Johnny struggles to overcome years of abuse, poverty, and despicable horrors to become part of a real family, but is he strong enough to defeat his demons? The Everetts realize Johnny’s journey is now their own, but they face a daunting task.

How much sacrifice is too much when all you can hope for is keeping the tarnished?

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My Rating:   

My Thoughts: Where You Come From Isn't Who You Are.

     Warning keep the tissues on standby, because this book is heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. I've seen it compared to Blind Side, but this story is sooo much more. Truly I didn't know what to expect when reading this novel, but after finishing I'm left feeling emotionally changed in asking myself who can I help in order to make their lives better.

       At the stroke of midnight, Johnny Tregalis, turns eighteen and knows he's finally legally free from his extremely abusive father. The problem is he hasn't a clue what to do or where to go, Johnny just knows he has to run. Johnny ends up stranded alone, tired, hunger and afraid in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He is then approached by a stranger named Jackson Everett who notices Johnny's distressing situation and offers him a place to rest for the night. Jackson not one to normally bring home homeless people can't peg his reasoning for helping Johnny out, but knows he just has to help the boy. Johnny is immediately welcomed into the Everett home and though it was meant to be a one night stay, he is eventually offered a permanent home. It's during Johnny's stay with the Everetts that Jackson and his wife, Graye, find out more and more about the trouble teens past. Johnny is a honest and kind hearted boy but it's clear his past home life was nothing short of dark and abusive. Johnny's continues to have a lingering feeling of fear and begins questions if he should stay with the people he's grown so fond of when all he can dream of is his father and fears his dad's return for him. The question for Johnny and the Everetts is can Johnny be truly healed and happy?

       Overall, great emotional read. Oh I just wanted to jump in the book and hug poor Johnny a billion times over. Johnny's story will break your heart, but the love the Everetts show him will bring a smile to your face. It's sad to know that a story like Johnny's isn't truly fiction, knowing that there are sick people out there in the world. But I hope there are real Everetts out in the world too. My favorite part was the fact that Johnny was still kind hearted, his life was horrid but he remained good, I loved that! For all that he endured it was great to read that he could still laugh and smile. So if you are up for reading a book about a family taking in a boy who endured abuse no child should have to take especially from a "parent" and yet they remain lovable and strong, than I suggest taking a read of this book just keep tissues handy. 

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    = MEET BRADON NAVE =

Author Links: Facebook | Twitter | Google + | Website | Limitless Publishing Author Page

Bradon Nave was born and raised in rural Oklahoma. He attended a small country school during junior high and high school, and graduated with only three people in his class. After graduate school, he decided to devote his spare time to his passion of writing. Bradon currently lives in Piedmont, Oklahoma, with his wife and two young children. 

When he’s not writing, he loves running, being with friends and family, and being outdoors.

Hey, It's A Book Tour for "Somewhere in Between" by Samatha Harris

by Samatha Harris 

"SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN" 

Genre: Contemporary Romance. 268 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Book Link: Click Here

Amazon UK: Amazon CA: Amazon AU

- SYNOPSIS -

Alexandra McCabe is disconnected from the world, grieving the loss of her parents...

Content with studying and keeping to herself, Alex has no interest in the campus playboy, Drew Collins, trying to get close to her. But even dousing him with beer doesn't deter the easy-going charmer, and against her better judgment, the pair fall into a reluctant friendship.

Drew is bored with college life, and Alex's romantic rejection intrigues him...

Their friendship is good for both of them, but Drew is used to getting what he wants, and he's tired of shallow sorority girls. He's much more interested in the feisty redhead, but despite his growing feeling, Alex keeps him firmly in the friend zone.

Old heartaches and new tragedies deepen a complicated relationship...

Whatever life throws their way, Alex and Drew remain best friends with their own traditions. Drew is Alex's family, her rock, and Alex keeps Drew grounded, always challenging him to better himself.

When years of buried feelings rush to the surface, they threaten to change everything...

Drew promised his mother he'd tell Alex how he feels, when the time is right-but how will he know when that is? Alex is terrified to reveal those 'three little words' certain Drew doesn't feel the same, and she'll lose the only family she has.

Should Alex and Drew open their hearts, and risk being crushed? Should they be satisfied with a deep, lifelong friendship?

 Or does the only chance for happiness lie...

Somewhere In Between?

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- EXCERPT -

When we reached the bar, Drew ordered me a glass of champagne and I turned to scan the crowd. I saw Madeline working her way toward us, her long plum colored gown flaring out behind her. She threw her arms open, a smile spreading wide across her lips. Was she drunk? I smiled back at her as she finally reached me, grasping both my arms tightly before pulling me into an awkward hug. My boss is a very proper and elegant woman. She’s always strictly business, so I was completely floored when she embraced me.

“Alexandra, you look stunning,” she gushed leaning in to kiss my cheeks.

“Uh,” I stammered, completely caught off guard. “As do you, Ms. Grant.”

“Please, we are not in the office. Call me Madeline.” She waved a hand, dismissing the formality. Her eyes widened as Drew stepped beside me and handed me my glass. Madeline glanced between us, pursing her lips and nodding her approval.

“Madeline, this is Andrew Collins,” I said.

“Drew,” he clarified, shaking her extended hand.

“Well, it is a pleasure to meet you, Drew,” Madeline said, her eyes roaming over him from top to bottom like he was a life-size chocolate sculpture. Yep she’s drunk. I took a sip of champagne to hide my giggle, eyeing the actual life-size chocolate sculpture that stood across the room. I would have to get a closer look at that later on. Damn, I should have brought a bigger purse.

“Alexandra has told me so much about you.” Madeline placed a hand to her chest, toying with the insane diamond pendant nestled there. I was impressed she wasn’t hunched over from the sheer size of the thing. Madeline was hammered and flirting with Drew. It was quite the show.

Drew retreated closer to my side, placing his hand on the small of my back. “Well, I’m sure only half of it is true.” An awkward smile spread across his face. His eyes shifted to mine, begging me to save him from my inebriated boss. I bit my lip to suppress a giggle.

Madeline giggled “Oh nonsense.” She placed a hand on his arm. Totally sauced.

“Can I get you a drink, Madeline?” Drew offered, clearly looking for an escape.

“Champagne, please,” she said, with a brilliant smile. As he turned back to the bar to get her drink, she leaned in to me. “He is delicious, darling. Well done. Best to hide him from Gwen.” She winked. Drunk Madeline was my new favorite person! I immediately started devising a plan to start slipping Kahlua into her morning coffee.

I heard the telltale stomp before I saw her. The sound stopped just behind me and a chill ran up my spine.

“Alex,” Gwen said. I could hear the irritation in her voice, and I could feel her cold glare on the back of my neck. I took a deep breath, slowly turning to face her. I was met with an eyeful of exposed breast. Holy shit! There was more boob out of her dress than there was in it. I swear it looked like the fabric was doing everything it could not to just rip open. I couldn’t look at her face if I wanted to. My eyes were locked with her boobs. She might as well have come topless.

Gwen shifted, pushing her breast even further up, causing me to take an involuntary step back. For a moment I thought they were going to attack. She must have noticed Drew and aimed her torpedoes in his direction.

Gwen flipped her extensions over her shoulder as Drew approached. With a smile, he handed Madeline her glass and turned to address our new arrival. Poor bastard never had a chance. All he saw were breasts. It was a direct hit, with no chance of survival. I couldn’t blame him. Hell, I couldn’t look her in the face either.

To his credit, he eventually snapped back to himself and looked up at her face. “Hi, I’m Drew,” he stammered, extending his hand to Gwen. She took it and stepped closer, almost pressing herself against him. She practically shoved me out of the way, pretending not to notice that I was standing right fucking there!

Gwen’s eyes ran up and down Drew like a predator inspecting her prey. “A pleasure, I’m sure,” she said, in her best breathy Marilyn Monroe voice. Oh come on, was she for real? Without breaking eye contact or even releasing Drew’s hand, she said, “Nice dress, Alex.”

“You too, Gwen. Too bad there isn’t more of it.”

Drew coughed, almost choking on his drink. Calling that a dress would be a serious exaggeration. It was more like strips of black fabric glued randomly to her body. Gwen glared at me and I met her evil eye head on, neither of us wanting to be the first to flinch.

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My Rating:  

My Thoughts: When Friends Maybe Too Close To Be More.

      This story was frustratingly fun, sweet and a bit steamy thanks to best friends trying to keep their relationship in tack while fighting the hope and attraction for more. The story was told in present and past form tying together the couples perspectives on their relationship and feelings. From the beginning to cute end you are rooting for them to get their lives in order and feelings out in the open so they can get their HEA.
        Drew Collins was always the one night stand kind of man not looking for love until one woman with red hair said no to him and dumped beer on him. Stunned that she would say no, Drew is intrigued by the beauty named Alexandra 'Alex' McCabe, who is alluring in a way that says 'Go Away' to all who approach. Finally getting into her life was not easy, but he knows Alex needs him as a friend more than anything, including his offer of love. Alex has lost both her parents and fears no one will stay in her life. Then Drew annoys his way into her life and she once again has something to lose. Out of fear Alex never hopes for more with Drew and choose to keep her best friend and connection to a pseudo family over a chance at love. The problem is when both deny what they really want and make mistakes push their relationship to the brink will they finally admit what they want or let it be nothing more?
         Overall, good story and I loved Alex and Drew's relationship, especially when she put Drew in his place. The two of them were just perfect for each other and it hurt to see them deny their love for one another when it was so painfully obvious to everyone around them.  Now, I enjoyed the flashback perspective style used to highlight Drew's feelings, but I really wanted a chapter or two in the present from him. The same went for Alex, all of her chapters were in the present form, but I would have loved a few in the past just to know how she thought at a few moments back then. The only other issue I had was about the drama between Alex and Drew, it felt overly contrived and escalated to a point it didn't have to, vague I know, but by having it all go wrong to make the reader scream in frustration was not relaxing for me. At one point I really questioned if Alex should forgive Drew, sad I know, but he really did a jerk move which I really would never forgive. But Drew more than makes up for it in the end with a very cute  . . . well I'm not spoiling it. So if you' re up for a frustratingly cute read where Best Friends think it's best for them to remain friend zoned but their attraction is too much to handle when they click so well, then this is a book you'll enjoy.  

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- ABOUT THE AUTHOR -

SAMATHA HARRIS

Samatha “Sam” Harris lives near Baltimore, Maryland with her husband and daughter Ava. Born in Florida, she migrated north which most people agree was a little backwards. She has been an artist all of her life, a Tattoo Artist for more than ten years, and a storyteller since she was a kid.

Sam has a slightly unhealthy love for Frank Sinatra, classic movies, and Jazz and Blues music, but her first love will always be reading. From Romance, to Thrillers, to Historical Fiction and everything in between, she loves to become a part of the story. As a writer she tells the stories that she would want to read.

LIMITLESS PUBLISHING: http://www.limitlesspublishing.net/authors/samatha-harris/

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/Samathaharrisauthor

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/samathaharris08

GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14244788.Samatha_Harris

Hey, It's A Book Tour for "Careful What You Wish For" by Michelle Escamilla

Genre: Romantic Comedy, Romance. 173 pages.

Price: $3.99 ebook (at time of post)

Book Link: Click Here

*synopsis*

One simple wish can change everything…

Harley Simpson has one wish—to find Prince Charming and settle down. She has a dream job and wonderful friends, but something is missing. With her thirtieth birthday looming, Harley is sure being with her hot, smooth-talking boss Ethan Prince would make her life complete. Having just landed a major client and learning she’ll be working even more closely with Ethan, Harley sets out to celebrate with her friends.

On her way to the bar, Harley chats with a mysterious cab driver. When the woman asks what she would wish for, Harley answers honestly—she wants Ethan. But during her night out, she meets a handsome, blue-eyed part-time bartender and full-time teacher named Matt Garner. No, he’s not a CEO, but he’s the sweetest guy Harley’s ever met.

A wish gone bad…

Harley awakens the next morning in a strange house with Ethan—and their two young daughters. The wish she’d confided to the freaky fairy godmother has actually come true. As she tries to figure out what this means and if it’s really what she wanted after all, Harley discovers Matt is also part of this bizarre world…He’s her daughters’ teacher.

Harley suspects fate has gone completely haywire. Will she be able to find a way out of this suburban nightmare? Or is she destined to stay and live the life she thought she wanted in this messed up fairytale…

Careful What You Wish For.

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My Rating:  

My Thoughts: Perfect Life, Maybe or Maybe Not?

     Based on the old saying of being careful of what you wish for, this romance is a simple read that is both funny and enlightening. The main character finds out what her life could be and does so in a slightly humorous way. In the end readers understand wishing for a fairytale life doesn't always your idea of a perfect life.

    Working in marketing firm and progressing up the promotion latter, Harley Simpson, finds herself set with everything except that elusive prince. The man she can't help feeling adolescent around is none other than her boss Ethan Prince, who is too good to be true, if only he'd notice her. After a night out with her girlfriends, Harley awakens to find herself a stay home mom to not one but two girls and is married to . . Ethan! Harley wants to thrilled but can't help but freak at her wish coming true without any ideas how. That is until her fairy godmother comes in and lays it all out for her. Turns out the world Harley is in is all wrong and it's up to Harley to figure out what is right and what isn't including who her prince really is? Oh and if Harley can't understand her true desires she may be stuck in this new reality for good.

      Overall, nice quick entertaining read but wished for more depth in a few areas. Harley is quickly introduced and then thrown into her new world, which she lives in for 90% of the story. I never connected to Ethan at all making it easy to not feel anything towards him, which included hate. Though the same could be said about any of the other side characters, flushing them out could have helped bring more out Harley's character too. I mean most of the time Harley substituted emotions for wine, so there were quite a few hangovers as you can imagine. So if you are looking for a cute contemporary dream to reality "romance" where the girl comes to the conclusion your true dream may be different than your fairytale, than this book would be good to read.

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Michelle Escamilla

Author Links: Amazon Page, Facebook, Blog, Twitter.

Michelle Escamilla is a married mom of two. She began writing just to pass the time, waiting for one of her favorite authors to release her upcoming book, but soon found a new passion. When she is not writing, she is spending time with her kids, husband or family. She lives in Colorado, where she loves the Mountains during the summer months for hiking and would love to be on a beach during the winter months.