Friday, April 22, 2016

Release Blitz: Single by Collette West

Single by Collette West

Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance

Underdog Luke “Single” Singleton is yearning to make a comeback. After getting hit in the neck with a pitch—an injury that nearly cost him his life—he has one last chance to play for his hometown team, the Stockton Beavers. But his mom has Alzheimer’s, and he’s all she has to depend on. How can he pursue his career, much less someone special?

Personal care aide Roberta Bennett is done dating baseball players. Having had her share of heartbreak, she heads to Stockton hoping for a fresh start. But after she finds Luke’s mom outside, lost, and alone, she can’t refuse when he hires her on the spot. Unbeknownst to Luke, Roberta is all too familiar with the violent tendencies of the pitcher who hit him.

Now that they’re living under the same roof, the last thing either of them is looking for is a relationship. But it’s not long before they find themselves drawn to each other. And right when Luke is thinking about finally making a change to his single status, a secret from Roberta’s past emerges with the power to tear them apart.

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About the Author

Collette West grew up as somewhat of a jock-nerd hybrid. Entering the world three weeks premature, her dad nearly missed her birth because he had seats behind the dugout for a sold-out, highly-anticipated match-up between two of baseball's biggest rivals. Not to be outdone, her book-loving mom taught her how to read by the time she was three. A love of the game coupled with an appreciation for the written word were instilled in Collette's impressionable brain from a young age. No wonder her characters believe in the philosophy: sports + romance = a little slice of heaven.

Splitting her time between the Pocono Mountains and Manhattan, Collette indulges her inner fangirl by going to as many games as she can from hockey to baseball and downloading every sports romance novel in existence onto her iPad. When she's not clicking away on her laptop, she enjoys walking her dog in Central Park, satisfying her caffeine craving at the Starbucks on Broadway and keeping an eye out for Mr. Right. But above all, she loves dishing with her readers. Email her at collette_west@yahoo.com.

She is the author of NIGHT GAMES, GAME CHANGER and GAME ON.

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Excerpt

But I'm not about to let her blow me off so easily, not when we were finally starting to enjoy ourselves. This time, I pull on the corner of her scarf and end up drawing it down over her shoulder, spinning her around. I have her off-balance, trying to find her footing, when she falls into my arms.

Her eyes never stray from mine when her hand comes to rest on my neck at the exact spot where I got hit. I swallow hard, never believing anything in the world could feel as good as this. If given the choice, I'd go through all the pain and rehab all over again just to have her do what she's doing to me now. She glides her fingers along my jaw and across my goatee before lightly skimming them over my lips, making me shudder with pleasure. I lean in, and she lowers her hand, her eyes burning into me. Intent on capturing her lips with mine, I’m close enough to feel her warm breath on my face when suddenly she pushes me away from her, taking a step back.

Holding a hand to her forehead, she’s unable to look at me. "Sorry… I tripped and—"

"Roberta," I gasp, struggling to catch my breath. "It's okay. I—"

Yet all she says is, "C'mon," before turning and leaving the alcove.

I run a hand across my face, trying to make sense of what just happened. I almost kissed her… And for a split second, I could've sworn by the fire in her eyes that she'd really wanted me to. God, could she possibly have feelings for me? No… That's just crazy. She probably didn't want to hurt my feelings, and to save me the embarrassment, she graciously backed away before anything could happen. Yeah, that sounds more like it. Now we can just pretend like she tripped and I caught her and go on our merry way. My fingers stray to my neck, right where hers were. Because that's what she wants, right?

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Thursday, April 21, 2016

Blog Tour: Pieces of You and Me by Erin Fletcher

Pieces of You and Me
By: Erin Fletcher
Release Date: April 18, 2016

Description:

Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains references to drinking, addiction, and just the right amount of angst. You’ll want to save this tortured hero, while at the same time, not want to change a single thing about him!

Five years.

That’s how long I’ve been gone. Since I left my best friend—the girl I loved—behind.

Five seconds.

That was how long it takes to realize I am completely, utterly, screwed. Because now that I’m back, my childhood crush has turned into so much more.

Rylee has changed. We both have. And now I’m drawn to her in a completely different way. To her smile. Her touch. To reliving old memories and making new ones. To the happiness she’s always given me that I haven’t felt since I left.

But her friends are hell-bent on keeping us apart. My dad is one drink away from destroying both of our lives, and maybe I am, too. It’s only a matter of time before I have to leave again, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it. I never get a choice.

The one choice I can make? Stay away from Rylee. Because if I don’t, I’ll break her heart—and mine—all over again.

Review:

Oh to be a teenager in high school and have to deal with drama, no thanks. But then again when there is that one person that was always by your side, and they come back into your life things just start to feel so right. But that doesn’t matter because again this is high school and sometimes you just can’t control everything.

We meet both Rylee and Chase in their junior year of highs cool. They were once best friends and inseparable when they were in middle school but then Chase moved away and Rylee never heard from him again, until he turns up back at school and back with his dad. It’s cute seeing their reunion happen and their realization that hey they aren’t little kids any more this isn’t just an innocent friendship, this is more and it’s probably always been more they were just too young to see it. But there are of course complications throughout the book.

It was interesting seeing their relationship from old to new and to secret of course because neither of them wanted anyone in their business. But of course there will be nosy overprotective friends, and their boyfriends. The dynamic between Rylee and her friend Mya was a little much, I think Mya was way too overprotective, there is friendship and then there is beyond friendship protectiveness. I got kind of turned off a little but I know it was just her way of being a good friend to Rylee. Other than that I really enjoyed the book.

This book not only touched upon a relationship that was long in the making, but it also touched upon alcohol abuse. It’s something that happens quite often and people don’t even realize it. So I thought that was a really great message throughout the book, the idea of getting help is a major step in getting past this sickness. I think Chase was a great character and had real substance.

Overall I thought the book was a quick and easy read that had me interested from beginning to end. I wouldn’t have minded seeing some of Chase’s drawings but I can only imagine what they looked like and how adorable to have a book that they passed back and forth between one another since middle school. Would love to have memories like that. Great book!

About the Author

Erin is a young adult author from North Carolina. She is a morning person who does most of her writing before sunrise, while drinking excessive quantities of coffee. She believes flip-flops qualify as year-round footwear, and would spend every day at the beach if she could. She has a bachelor's degree in mathematics, which is almost never useful when writing books.

Website | Blog | Twitter | Goodreads

Tour Schedule

April 18th

Actin' Up with Books, http://actinupwithbooks.blogspot.com

April 19th

Good Choice Reading Promotions, http://www.goodchoicereading.com | Interview

The Book Reaper, thebookreaper.net

April 20th

Curling Up With A Good Book, curling-up-with-a-good-book.blogspot.com,

April 21st

Addicted to Books, http://imaddicted2yabooks.blogspot.com/

April 22nd

Book Briefs, http://bookbriefs.net

Short and Sassy Book Blurbs, http://shortandsassybookblurbs.blogspot.com/

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Friday, April 15, 2016

Review: That Thing Between Eli and Gwen by J.J. McAvoy

That Thing Between Eli and Gwen
By J.J. McAvoy
Release Date: April 21, 2016

Description:
**A multicultural new adult romance from bestselling author, J.J. McAvoy**
Eli Davenport thinks he’s found the perfect woman to be his wife. She’s a doctor, like he is. She’s brilliant, like he is. And she’s wealthy, like he is.
Guinevere ‘Gwen’ Poe thinks her fiancé is the perfect man. He’s handsome, successful and he was her first…
But when Eli’s bride runs off with Gwen’s fiancée on his wedding day, they are left to pick up the broken pieces of each other...

Review:

Wow, this book just really blew me away. There couldn’t be two people who are more different than each other and to have the same thing happen to them just bought them together. This book really was beautifully written, I was riveted to the edge of my chair waiting to see what was going to happen next. I laughed, I cried, I felt bad and it was just all over the place for me. Amazing job done by J.J. McAvoy.

What a situation to be in, your fiancé runs off with someone else’s fiancé while you are in the middle of getting married (right at the alter!), this is what happened to Eli and Gwen. How depressing for the both of them. Somehow it just so happens they kind of run in the same circles inadvertently and they begin to run into each other even more. So they talk and comfort one another because really how many people has this happened to before. This is something they can both relate to and man what a shame for it to happen, but a blessing in disguise. The two couldn’t be any more different, but they balance each other out like ying and yang.

I don’t really want to give too much away about the book because I am about to just gush all about it. There were moments in the book where you couldn’t help but laugh at the banter between these two characters. But then there would be moments when if you are like me and totally get attached to characters in books you could not help to cry about it. Man there was a lot of crying there for a while, but again you have to read the book to see what I’m talking about.

Let’s not get away from ourselves though because there were a lot of really great amazing intimate moments between the two main characters and smaller ones between others. I really enjoyed this book from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down and I’m so happy I got the opportunity to read something from this author because now I know I will definitely be looking out for them. Amazing read just what everyone needs, because it has a little bit of everything, even that lovely backstabbing and groveling you wish for sometimes.

Love the cover too, because you can tell how different they are and I really loved the setting. Not only in New York where everyone is so different but they all come together, but the Alaskan scenery too was very descriptive and beautiful. Almost makes me want to go there and experience it myself. Love this book.

Links

Disclaimer:
I received this book from NetGalley and NYLA, so that I may give my honest opinion and a review. Whether it is good or not please do not let it discourage you from purchasing/reading the book yourself and forming your own opinion. What might be good for me may not be good for you and vice versa. With that said, Happy Reading Everyone!!!

Wednesday, April 6, 2016

Review: After the Rain by Mary J. Williams

After the Rain
By: Mary J. Williams
Release Date: February 25, 2016
Series: One Pass Away Book One

Description:
Welcome to the NFL.
The Seattle Knights have the hottest players in the game. On and off the field.

Logan Price is getting a second chance.
Claire Thornton is going to make sure it counts.

Logan Price was living his dream. After years of hard work he finally made it. Starting running back for the Knights.
After only a few games, he was a fan favorite. There were whispers of a rookie of the year award.
It all ended with a devastating injury to his leg that sent him back to Oklahoma. A failed attempt at a comeback sent him into a deep depression.
His life became about two things. Working at his father's bar, and running. One filled his days. The other made getting through the endless nights a little easier.
When an old friend offers Logan a lifeline, he's reluctant to grab hold. He could live without football--barely. But he didn't think he could survive getting his hopes up only to lose it all again.
Claire Thornton's dreams are just as big as Logan's. She left the small town where she was born, to make something of herself. It hasn't been easy. A woman with no money and no connections. Everything she has, she's earned. Helping Logan Price get back to the NFL will prove to her detractors that she can be a trainer. She is determined to make it in a male-dominated world.
The attraction is instantaneous.
The reasons not to get involved too numerous to list.
It only takes one kiss--one touch--for them to realize if they want their dreams to come true they need more than luck. They need each other.

Review:

Football love is upon us in this new book by Mary J. Williams. I love sports books, even though I don’t personally follow any sports there’s nothing more exciting than someone reaching for their goals. Sports, uniforms, muscles that’s all just an added bonus!

We meet Logan who is at his personal low after a bad start in the NFL where he sustained an injury that just wouldn’t heal the way he needed to. He’s down on his luck just living day to day with no aspirations just knowing his career is over. That is until his old team mate comes back with a little surprise and help. This is where we meet Claire an up and coming physical therapist who is ready to work. There is definitely a connection between the two of them, and Claire being as bold as she is says ok let’s make out and get this over with, you know get it out of the way so you won’t be wondering what if the entire time. Let’s just say they couldn’t get passed their attraction to one another.

Throughout the book the two of them gain more trust with one another and Claire really does help Logan the best way she can in getting him ready for his tryouts for the next season. Her skills are undeniable and interesting. But this book isn’t only about their relationship, it’s about struggles, trust and moving forward. Claire is a very strong minded person and I thoroughly enjoyed her as a characters, she tells it like it is and is very savvy. Claire is very strong willed, but what she doesn’t do is depend on people and friendships, so it was very nice seeing her finally letting go of the reins and letting Logan in as well as Rhonda, who is just another great side character.

Overall I thought it was a wonderful quick read that made you root for Logan and Claire both in their relationships and their careers. Some endearing moments throughout the book and some very nice private scenes as well. It was entertaining and interesting. I can’t wait to see who the next book is about and I’m really hoping it’s about Gaige because I definitely want to learn a little more about him. Especially his whole paying it forward attitude which is not one most people have. It’s intriguing to say the least but there has to be reasons behind them as well. Hope we get to find out in the future.

Go pick this book up, it’s worth the read.

Disclaimer:
I received this book from NetGalley and Brooks Publications, so that I may give my honest opinion and a review. Whether it is good or not please do not let it discourage you from purchasing/reading the book yourself and forming your own opinion. What might be good for me may not be good for you and vice versa. With that said, Happy Reading Everyone!!!

Monday, April 4, 2016

Blog Tour: The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris

Rachel Harris's THE NATURAL HISTORY OF US is already getting swoons from readers everywhere! We can’t wait for you to get your hands on it. Known for her sweet romances, Rachel's THE NATURAL HISTORY OF US, is no different! Check out everything we have for you on this amazing title and then go grab your copy today. Justin and Peyton’s story is sure to put a smile on your face and keep you turning pages long into the night!

About THE NATURAL HISTORY OF US:

One class assignment. One second chance at love. The school player is all in. Now he needs to win back the sweet commitment girl who's forever owned his heart.

Justin Carter has a secret. He's not the total player Fairfield Academy believes him to be. Not really. In fact, he used to be a one-woman guy...and his feelings for her never went away. Too bad he broke her heart three years ago and made sure to ruin any chance she'd ever forgive him.

Peyton Williams is a liar. She pretends to be whole, counting down the days until graduation and helping her parents at the family ranch. But the truth is, she's done everything she can to get over Justin, and salvation is just around the corner. With graduation one short month away, she'll soon break free from the painful memories and start her life fresh. Of course, she has to get through working with him on one last assignment first.

For Justin, nothing ever felt as right as being with Peyton, and now that fate's given him a shot at redemption, he's determined to make the most of it. And for Peyton...well, Justin Carter has always been her kryptonite.

Order THE NATURAL HISTORY OF US Today!

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Review:

This was a very sweet story about two people who belonged together. I read the first book of this series and loved it. Rachel Harris did an amazing job telling this new chapter of this series. It was sweet seeing their progression of how they were way back when and how they are now was adorable and addicting. You can see how much they need each other and it was sweet. They made each other that much stronger when they were together.

We meet both Peyton and Justin who are both stuck doing a project with one another, one where they have to be a married couple with kids. This of course comes after years of them not speaking to one another after the breakup from their secret relationship. It’s difficult for them to say the least but Justin is on a mission. He knew that Peyton was the one for him but he never thought he deserved her.

The book went back and forth from the past and the present; it also went from one perspective to the other which I really enjoyed. I’ve always loved seeing everyone’s point of view of the same situation. Sometimes one person will feel one way and another will feel the other way, so it’s always good seeing how they really feel. This book was enjoyable, the characters were great and the writing flowed smoothly throughout the entire book.

I think it’s great when books introduce me to new things. I never heard of Peyton’s disease and definitely went back and did my research on it. It’s always interesting to learn new things and I think that’s the best thing, learning new things are always a plus. Regardless this book was overall a good quick read that was interesting and kept me intrigued on what was going to happen with all the characters. I enjoyed the baseball element as well. Something about sports always make things more interesting for me, just a plus, maybe it’s the whole sport mentality and the uniforms don’t hurt either.

I think the cover is adorable and I would pick it up and see what it was all about but then again when I see who it’s written by I will still pick it up. I think Rachel Harris is a great author and writes cute stories that will keep you interested, can’t wait for the next one in this series. It was also cute seeing characters from the first book. It’s nice when books are consecutive and you can get a glimpse into all the other characters in the series throughout the entire series.

Excerpt:

“Hold out your hand.” At the expression on his face, I rolled my eyes. “Just do it.” Cautiously, as if I was going to put out a cobra or something, he uncurled his fingers and lifted his palm. I dropped a small silver coin in the center. “For luck.”

Wonder warred with confusion in his gorgeous brown eyes and my heart melted.

“On this side there’s a horseshoe,” I said, my cheeks warming with a blush. “You know, the universal symbol for luck… and a small reminder of me.”

I bit my lip, hoping he didn’t think that was too corny—or that it revealed too much.

I flipped the coin over, exposing the other side, and my fingers slid across his rough skin. My breath caught. When I lifted my eyes, I found him watching me with so much intensity, so much heat, that an actual shiver rolled through me. Just like in my favorite books.

Huh. So that was what smoldering looked like. Good to know.

I swallowed hard and noticed him do the same, and nothing could hold back my smile. Justin glanced down and laughed. “Kick some ass!” he read, skimming his fingernail over my initials.

“I figured…” I cleared my throat. “I thought you could hide it in your sock or something,” I said, unable to tell if he liked the gift or not. He just kept staring at it. “If it’s dumb, you don’t have to—”

“No.”

He’d said it so quietly I almost wasn’t sure he’d spoken at all. But then he closed his hand around the coin and raised his head. Time ceased to exist as Justin’s eyes trailed across my face. I held my breath waiting and a sweet smile crossed his face.

“Damn.” He shook his head softly. “You’ve done it now.”

“What?” I asked, hoping whatever it was that it was a good thing. “What did I do?”

Justin merely shook his head again and smiled. “Wait for me after the game.” Shifting his gaze to the old concession stand, he took a step back and said, “Over there, okay?”

When I nodded, excitement lodging in my throat, making it impossible to speak, he winked and then took off to join his teammates. As I watched his cute butt in those uniform pants run across the field, a giddy grin found my lips.

About the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Harris writes humorous love stories about sassy girls-next-door and the hot guys that make them swoon. Vibrant settings, witty banter, and strong relationships are a staple in each of her books…and kissing. Lots of kissing. An admitted Diet Mountain Dew addict and homeschool mom, she gets through each day by laughing at herself, hugging her kids, and watching way too much Food Network with her husband. She writes young adult, new adult, and adult romances, and LOVES talking with readers!