REVIEW: To Have (To Have #1) by M.L. Pennock

To Have
To Have #1
M.L. Pennock
Genre: Romance
Release Date: June 2, 2015

Stella
My life was good.
But, like most things that are just “good,” it fell apart. I fell apart.
I had lived to work before, but when my husband left my job became my entire life.
Then I went for coffee and my life changed. Days before finalizing my divorce, my past sat down across from me and it was like life had been breathed back into me. It was only the beginning of a crazy, not at all planned out adventure with him … much like our escapades when we were kids.

Brian
Twenty years ago my parents moved our family to Tennessee. My heart stayed behind in Western New York.
On a well-planned whim, my best friend and I packed up and headed north to begin realizing our dream of owning a business — a coffeehouse — in the small college town I spent my childhood exploring.
It took me years before I had the courage to go home, set up shop, and find her, though. I needed to be certain I could give her everything.
That day finally came.
When she walked in, she stole the air from my lungs.

This is our story.

 

This debut novel is a hidden gem. I have been hesitant lately about trying new authors since I have had several busts, but I do love a good second chance romance and this one sounded like it could be a winner. When I dove into To Have, I wondered why I had not read it sooner. This story has so many of the elements that I love from this genre. There is a love story that is solid. It is about more than a physical and chemical reaction. It is filled with emotional connection and a friendship that grows into more. This story is the purest type of second chance romance. It started as an innocent and loving friendship between two children, two kids that thought they would be best friends forever who were devastated at an early separation, and became more when they meet again as adults finding their footing in life. It is a story of what could be despite the time and distance apart.

Pennock does a great job of displaying a story that is dramatic but not over the top. There are so many different elements that come to play within the first few chapters that I was wondering how those themes would weigh down the story. But instead they enhanced the characters and their experiences. Stella is a beautiful soul and when her world comes crashing down she is never alone. She is surrounded by friends and family who hold her accountable to life and walk with her through hardships. I loved her family and friends that enriched her life and this story. Brian is such a fabulous book boyfriend. He is sweet, kind, honorable, and genuine. I loved how the little boy grew into a fabulous man, one that sought out a soulmate in life and when he found her, refused to let go.

The ups and downs of this story add a certain flair that has drama and romance but everything is in balance. The drama that happens is intricate to the story and helps to develop both the relationships and characters. I loved watching Stella and Brian fall in love. It was sweet and passionate. Their story captivated me and I loved every minute.

The writing in this story is so good. Pennock does a great job with the plot and pace of the book. The romance could have been rushed due to their past but instead it flows from one step to another until they become a cohesive unit. The side stories and drama added depth and emotion to this tale. It allows the reader to better understand where Stella and Brian are coming from and expands the story to include their spheres of life, not just the relationship. I appreciated that idea.

I will definitely be looking for more from Pennock and I am hoping to see more of the secondary characters that were introduced in this story. With a debut novel like this, Pennock is going places. If you love a well written second chance story that is real and beautiful, check out To Have and prepare to fall in love with Stella and Brian’s happily ever after!

Cover Reveal + Giveaway: TATTOOED EMOTIONS by Alicia Rae

Today we have the cover reveal for Alicia Rae’s Tattooed Emotions and I am so excited to share it with you! Alicia is sharing an little sneak peek, as well as a really fun giveaway, so make sure you check it all out!

Tattooed Emotions
Alicia Rae
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: September 17, 2015

Raelyn Jennings has survived the unthinkable. She’s been given a second chance to live, to breathe, to feel. Her ability to overcome such a traumatic hurdle has created armor around her heart. But beyond her shield is fear, a consuming deep one, of the unknown. Raelyn vows to herself that she’ll solely focus on the one constant in her life, her career as the CEO for a prestigious accounting firm.

Damien Heathman’s unrelenting determination has made him a powerful, respected man. He’s sexy and confident and utterly breathtaking. His dominance and strength is evident in every purposeful stride, every meaningful look, and every soft caress.

Raelyn has worked with Damien’s company, Heathman Enterprises, for many years, but they’ve never crossed paths—until now.

Damien’s presence fills a room. He steals Raelyn’s breath and sparks her broken heart back to life. Once Damien sets eyes on Raelyn, there is no turning back. He wants her, and he’ll stop at nothing to have her. Not even the dark secrets hidden behind his tattoos will stand in his way.

The chemistry is undeniable. The passion is palpable.

Can Damien convince Raelyn that he is worth the risk? Or will Raelyn allow her past to control her future, feeling the chance of another heartache is too great to bear?

“Nothing had ever felt so right—except him. For the first time in my life, I felt like I was where I was supposed to be. I felt his, even if only for this moment.”

To celebrate the cover reveal for Tattooed Emotions, Alicia Rae is hosting a fun giveaway! For your chance to win a $25 Victoria Secret GiftCard, an ARC of Tattooed Emotions, or a signed paperback of Tattooed Emotions, enter this Rafflecopter giveaway. Just follow the instructions listed and you will be entered for a chance to win! Don’t miss out. Good luck!

Alicia Rae is a Contemporary Romance Author who lives in Dekalb, Illinois, with her husband and three beautiful boys. Alicia has a passion for reading all types of romance, writing to bring a story to life, and photography.

Thank you to my dear sister, Kels, who showed me a few years ago how much I truly missed reading. And to my loving husband, for not throwing away my Nook, and planting the seed of writing in my mind. I am forever grateful. Xo

Readers, words cannot thank you enough for supporting me along this incredible journey. I hope you enjoy my novels as much as I do writing them. I thank each and every one of you.

Believe in yourself and follow your dreams…

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Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway: BLACK DAWN (Titan #6) by Cristin Harber

The Titan Series by Cristin Harber is full of drama, suspense, action, and romance. BLACK DAWN is no exception and I fell in love with Parker and Lexi’s story. Check out more about this action packed book, read Tina’s Thoughts, and make sure to enter the tour giveaway below!

BLACK DAWN
Titan # 6
Cristin Harber
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Suspense
Publication Date: July 14, 2015

What happens when nothing is as it seems?

Lexi Dare is on a one-woman mission to stay alive. Both at home and at work. Because how did she end up with a ring on her finger and an abuser in bed as she readies to hit the high point in her career? Everything should be perfect. Amazing job. Handsome fiancé. It’s all a disaster.

Parker Black is the brains behind Titan Group, an elite security firm. In his world, everything is ordered and controlled, except what he feels for his buddy’s girl. Something in her eye screams for help, but he has no idea what.

When Lexi disappears, Parker realizes what he should have known. The lines blur between friendships and work, and they must find each other to survive a terror attack that only Lexi can stop.

Black Dawn can be read as a standalone and does not have a cliffhanger.

You can purchase your copy today at the retailers listed below!

 Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

The Titan series is full of action packed adventure, suspense and drama, and a whole lot of romance and passion. It is what I have come to expect from the series and I was not disappointed with BLACK DAWN. This story felt different in a very good way- making it my favorite of the series by far. It was well paced with everything you want from an action adventure romance but it felt deeper and real.

Parker has always been one of my favorite in the Titan Group and I could not wait to read his book. I was a bit hesitant when I saw that Lexi was engaged to someone else in the beginning of the story. One of the major themes that turns me off to books is cheating but I decided to trust Cristin and give the book a fair chance and see how the story unfolds. I was not disappointed. I appreciated the boundaries that the characters have in place and their actions to support the boundaries despite their deep connection. The story in general felt different. It had a different pace and perhaps because Lexi was such an incredible woman and his equal in both love and profession it added a new flair to the book that was a different perspective than the books before. Granted each story in the Titan series is different and unique, I think that this one was my favorite because the characters were connected in ways they couldn’t even understand until the moment of truth comes forth.

Parker Black, in my opinion, is the more well-rounded men of the Titan group. He is computer savvy, intelligent, as well as strong, able to defend himself and others, and a solider. When you put both of those together you get one sexy bada$$ that will make your heart pound. He is compassionate and brilliant, a man who has both a linear mind and a passionate one (a side that he discovers during this story). Lexi Dare is a complex woman. Her past dictates her reaction to her present. She is a computer genius, a woman that can crack the toughest code, but also a woman abused, demoralized, and lonely. Lexi’s character is almost a split type personality at times. When she is in computer mode she is fierce and powerful, the top of the game. But as a woman in a relationship and everyday life, she is reserved, fearful, and lost. Watching her grow into who she is and meant to be is beautiful and such an incredible theme to the story. Her growth in confidence is a powerful theme I loved watching unfold.

The relationship between these two is sweet and loving. They are respectful, kind, and passioante. Their relationship is built on a friendship that soon becomes an inferno of love and lust. Parker and Lexi complement each other and their similarities in their history and thought processes allows them to take the world as it comes and fight for their place side by side. The relationship between these two is well paced. They have had hidden emotions in regards to one other and their friendship is a foundation to build from. I love how they are consumed by the pull to one another but they are still fully who they are as individuals and grow to be even more as the story progresses.

BLACK DAWN is high action with plot twists and turns galore. You see both Lexi and Parker’s actions and how they affect their spheres of influence. This story is about finding who you are as a whole person and allowing new experiences to bring out a new perspective and mindset. It allows for so much growth for both Parker and Lexi, which in turn adds a level of emotional depth that adds a brilliant flair for a suspenseful book!

To celebrate the release and blog tour for BLACK DAWN, Cristin is hosting this awesome giveaway! For your chance to win a $10 Amazon GiftCard or a Titan Mug, enter this Rafflecopter giveaway. Just follow the instructions listed and you will be entered for your chance to win! Don’t miss out. Good luck!

Cristin Harber is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling romance author. She writes sexy, steamy romantic suspense and military romance. Readers voted her onto Amazon’s Top Picks for Debut Romance Authors in 2013, and her debut Titan series was both a #1 romantic suspense and #1 military romance bestseller.

Website | Newsletter | Facebook | Team Titan Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

 

Release Week Blitz + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: KING OF HEARTS (Hearts #3) by LH Cosway

There is something about LH Cosway’s incredible books that tantalizes you with something more. I am so excited to help celebrate her new release King of Hearts, the third installment to the Heart Series! Check out more about the book, the series, read an excerpt, see Tina’s Thoughts, enter a giveaway, and learn more about the writing process and LH herself!

King of Hearts
Hearts #3
LH Cosway
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publication Date: July 16, 2015

Welcome to the City, London’s most prestigious square mile, where finance reigns and Oliver King is a rising prince. 

I used to rule the world.

There might be wolves on Wall Street, but there were crocodiles in Canary Wharf. Some of us craved money. Some of us craved power.

I liked money, and power had its advantages, but what I really wanted was to excel, to surpass the men who came before me. I never cared much for love and romance until I met Alexis.

I could feel it the very moment she walked into the interview, with her outspoken charm and vivacious personality. She cast all the others in shadow, made me laugh when life held no humour. Our friendship should have remained professional, but it wasn’t long before the lines started to blur.

You know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men? Well, I never foresaw where my plans would lead, and only in my darkest hour did I finally see the light…

You can have all the money and prestige in the world and still be the poorest man alive. And love, well, I hate to use a tired old cliché, but love can be the thing that truly sets you free.

You can purchase your copy today at the retailers listed below!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes&Noble | iTunes | Smashwords

LH Cosway’s books are such intriguing works of art. She takes strange and wonderful things and creates something that will touch your heart and change your mind. Her stories are unique and always a pleasure to read. King of Hearts is no different. This story had so many different elements that left me breathless, reveling in the story and the passion taking place.

One of my favorite parts of LH’s writing is her characters passion. It is displayed in so many different ways. Her characters are strong, fierce, and deep. King and Alexis are no different. They are both from different sides of the economic world but they have a wit and tenacity that connects them on an authentic level. Alexis is such a fabulous heroine. She is smart, real, quick witted, and frank. Her personality is vibrant and that translates so well into the story. King is the epitome of the “sexy suit.” He is captivating and charming in a fresh way. He speaks his mind and his fortitude for business is astounding. When you put these two characters together, the storyline explodes with humor, passion, deep thoughts, and ingenious ideas.

The story is split into two parts: Before and After. I enjoyed seeing the “then and now” aspect of what happened. The way the story is presented allows for so much more to happen because of the span of so many years. There is growth, heartache, and so much change. The drama that ends the Before and sets up the After is shocking and dramatic, causing readers to wait on the edge of their seats for the final result.

The twists and turns in this story were fascinating. Alexis and King are complimentary characters and that fact is solidified as you read this book. They have such a connection and passion for the situations they face that it is inspiring. I loved how their love learned to overcome life’s hardships and struggles. If you are looking for a book that is refreshing, full of vibrancy and a new spin on love and  second chances then pick this book up. It is one you will not want to miss.

I was lost deep in the Facebook vortex when the distinct clearing of a male throat caused me to jump and drop my phone in fright. Glancing up, I found King standing in the doorway, arms crossed and a curious look on his face. He was back early. Of course he’d come back early.

“Enjoying your lunch?” he said, raising an eyebrow.

What was that sound, I hear you ask? Why, it was my heart plopping right out onto the floor and crawling away in mortification.

“I, eh, uh,” I tried to think of an excuse but drew a complete and total blank. Finally I went with, “You have a couch in your bathroom.” Yep, that gem was all mine.

“I do. And you’re in here, why?”

I let out an embarrassed laugh and hung my head in shame. There really was no excuse for this. It was like, when you see a giraffe walking by, you’re more than likely at the zoo. This was me taking liberties plain as day. Wincing, I decided to go with honesty and face the consequences. “I’m really sorry. I was looking around your office and saw that you had a couch in your bathroom and that your bathroom is swankier than any bathroom I’ve ever been in and I just couldn’t help myself.”

Oh God, somebody gag my verbal diarrhoea, please.

I stared at King. King stared at me. His expression was indecipherable until he shook his head and let out a gentle laugh. Then he surprised the shit out of me when he closed the door, stepped inside and dropped down beside me. He threw his arms up and rested his head in his hands, kicking his legs out.

“It is quite swanky in here,” he allowed.

A beat of silence elapsed before I had to ask, “Am I fired?”

King’s eyes slid to mine as he let out a long sigh. I thought he might be enjoying making me sweat before he finally answered, “Luckily for you, I’m in a decidedly good mood today, so no, you’re not fired. I’d appreciate it, though, if you let me know the next time you feel like eating lunch in my bathroom. I could have been in here taking a shower,” he grinned at me before putting on a face of mock horror. “Or God forbid, having a number two.”

He whispered the words ‘number two’ and I burst out laughing. I swear, it was the last thing I expected him to say. He was pretty funny when he wanted to be.

I swiped my fingers over my heart. “Okay, cross my heart, I’ll give you notice the next time. Number twos are not something I want to witness.”

He waggled his brow and leaned in a fraction closer, bumping my shoulder with his. “Ah, but you wouldn’t be adverse to a shower?”

Want to know more about what was going on in LH’s head while she wrote this book? Check out her Spotify playlists for both parts of this story as well as her Pinterest page to see what she her inspirations and ideas come to life!

Spotify Playlist Part One |  Spotify Playlist Part Two | Pinterest

To celebrate the release of King of Hearts, LH Cosway is hosting an awesome giveaway! For you chance to win the  prize pack which includes: a Signed King of Hearts paperback, a King of Hearts tote bag, a King of Hearts key ring and L.H. Cosway swag (open international) then make sure to enter this GIVEAWAY! Just follow the instructions listed to be entered for your chance to win. Don’t miss out on this fun opportunity! Good luck!

Want to see more of the Hearts Series from LH Cosway? make sure to check out the first two books in the series, two incredible stories that you will not want to miss!

Six of Hearts (Hearts #1)

Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Apple

Hearts of Fire (Hearts #2)

Amazon | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

L.H. Cosway has a BA in English Literature and Greek and Roman Civilisation, and an MA in Postcolonial Literature. She lives in Dublin city. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.

She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.

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New Release + Excerpt + Giveaway: KING OF HEARTS (Hearts #3) L.H. Cosway

Happy Release Day to L.H. Cosway and happy book birthday to her new book King of Hearts! The King of Hearts release week event begins tomorrow. Be on the lookout for what the blogs have to say about Oliver King’s story! Take a sneak peek into the book below and make sure to enter the giveaway! Good luck!  I loved this story and cannot wait for the world to fall in love with King and Alexis! 

King of Hearts
Hearts #3
L.H. Cosway
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: July 16, 2015

Welcome to the City, London’s most prestigious square mile, where finance reigns and Oliver King is a rising prince. 

I used to rule the world.

There might be wolves on Wall Street, but there were crocodiles in Canary Wharf. Some of us craved money. Some of us craved power.

I liked money, and power had its advantages, but what I really wanted was to excel, to surpass the men who came before me. I never cared much for love and romance until I met Alexis.

I could feel it the very moment she walked into the interview, with her outspoken charm and vivacious personality. She cast all the others in shadow, made me laugh when life held no humour. Our friendship should have remained professional, but it wasn’t long before the lines started to blur.

You know what they say about the best laid plans of mice and men? Well, I never foresaw where my plans would lead, and only in my darkest hour did I finally see the light…

You can have all the money and prestige in the world and still be the poorest man alive. And love, well, I hate to use a tired old cliché, but love can be the thing that truly sets you free.

You can purchase your copy of King of Hearts at the retailers listed below!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | B&N | iTunes | Smashwords

What he said made me curious, so I went on, “What do you do to deal with the stress?”

He gave me a wan smile, and there was something in his expression that struck me as sad somehow. Rubbing at his chin, he answered, “Hmmm, when I’m stressed out…a nice glass of top shelf whiskey usually does the trick.”

“That makes sense,” I said and walked around his desk before taking a seat in front of him. “You know, I always thought it was poor people who did drugs, to escape the bleakness of their realities. Now I’m thinking maybe the practice is most common at the top and the bottom of the ladder. Perhaps the best place to be is somewhere in the middle.”

“Not necessarily. I’m at the top. Do I look high to you?”

The deadpan way in which he said it made me laugh. I leaned forward and teased, “I’m not sure. Let me have a look at your pupils.” Surprising me, King rose from his seat, walked around his desk and came to kneel in front of me. Before I knew it his face was mere inches from mine.

“Go ahead,” he said, voice low.

Whoa, Oliver King’s face right up close…I wasn’t sure what to do with that. I guess he didn’t realise the effect he had on this very non-gay lady, because he seemed entirely unselfconscious. His eyes were beautiful, his lashes long and golden, his skin smooth with a hint of stubble around his jaw, and his lips were just…I had no words. Sculpted and masculine was probably the only way I could think to describe them.

I realised I was staring at those lips a little too closely when my eyes flicked back to his. A moment ago he was smiling, but now that smile was transforming into a thoughtful frown.

I cleared my throat. “Your pupils look fine.”

King exhaled a small breath and I watched as his attention went from my eyes to my cheeks, nose, chin, and then finally to my lips. He looked like he was about to say something when suddenly Gillian’s voice filled the room.

“Mr King, Jenson Gellar is on the phone. Shall I put him through?”

Want to read more about the Heart series? Check out the first two books in the series today!

Six of Hearts (Hearts #1)

Amazon US | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo | Smashwords | iTunes

Hearts of Fire (Hearts #2)

Amazon | Smashwords | B&N | Kobo | iTunes

To celebrate the new release of King of Hearts, L.H. Cosway is hosting an awesome giveaway! For you chance to win the  prize pack which includes: a Signed King of Hearts paperback, a King of Hearts tote bag, a King of Hearts key ring, and L.H. Cosway swag (open international) then make sure to enter this GIVEAWAY! Just follow the instructions listed to be entered for your chance to win. Don’t miss out on this fun opportunity! Good luck!

L.H. Cosway has a BA in English Literature and Greek and Roman Civilisation, and an MA in Postcolonial Literature. She lives in Dublin city. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.

Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads

REVIEW: The Frenchman (Crime Royalty Romance #1) by Lesley Young

The Frenchman
(Crime Royalty Romance #1)
Lesley Young
Genres: Adult, Romance
Publication Date: December 2, 2014

Fleur Smithers rarely veers off the straight and (excruciatingly) narrow. So moving to the seaport town of Toulon to live with her newfound biological mother—an inspector with the French National Police—for one year is a pretty major detour.

Son of France’s crime royalty family and international rugby star, Louis Messette, is devoted to his sport, famille and nothing else. But the carefree American he meets one night changes everything. She sparks a desire in him like no other. Possession takes root. She will do as he commands.

Bit by bit Fleur slips into the Frenchman’s realm of wanton pleasure agreeing to his one condition: that she keep their affair secret. She serves up her heart without reservation in the hub of the glittering Côte d’Azur, and the along the soulful Seine in Paris, unaware of the danger she is in. For her new lover’s family business will pit her against her mother, the police woman sworn to bring down the Messettes. And by then, far more than Fleur’s heart will be on the line.

The Frenchman is a story that resides in the grey area of right and wrong. It is a Romeo and Juliet story of two unlikely characters who fall in love, one knowing the consequences of their actions and the other catching on a little later in the game. Lesley Young brings to life a story that is full of choices, love, and the underbelly of the criminal beast.

This story was an interesting read. I enjoyed the setting, themes, and characters. Fleur is the biological daughter of one of France’s greatest inspectors, a woman who has been fighting crime for a long time and has a rate of success unmatched. These two are fascinating to read about. I loved watching Fleur and her mom learn how to interact and basically be related. Their connection is only biological so watching a friendship bond grow was nice to see. They are two very different characters. Her mother is a ruthless woman of the law, fighting with a vengeance that has motivations you would never see coming until the moment of revelation. She is a complex character and I enjoyed learning about who she was and what her past was like with Fleur. It was fascinating. Fleur is a beautiful yet naive girl who learns what life is like outside her preconceived notions. She is strong and delicate, a young woman who wants so much from life and must decide what she will do to experience it.

The mysterious Louis is everything you would imagine a French rugby player slash son of the local crime lord to be. He is smooth, sexy, irresistible, and a little bit dangerous. When Fleur and Louis start an affair together it is full of passion and irresistible lust. These two are so far apart in the social realm but they seem to click perfectly. In the world they create together they make sense, it is only when the outside world comes crashing in that they must make their own decisions and choose to be together. It was interesting to watch Fleur slowly piece together who Louis is and then watch her make her choices based on what she learns about his life and family.

The story show their romance in a world that is uncertain for the two of them. Their romance is a secret from the world and when pieces of it start to be discovered, there are consequences for them both, as well as those around them. I loved watching Fleur transform into her own person. She added another piece of her personality with the reunion with her biological mother and her heritage but she learns so much more about herself. She becomes confident in what she wants and needs. She learns to sacrifice for those she loves and fight for what she desires. This story was sweet and filled with danger, a combination that is surprisingly wonderful on the pages of a book!

The Frenchman is a story that people will enjoy. If you love a good Romeo and Juliet type story with a sense of the forbidden and danger, then be sure to check out the first installment in Lesley Young’s Crime Royalty Romance series.

You can purchase your copy of The Frenchman today on Amazon!

New Release + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN (The Collectors’ Society #3) by Heather Lyons

I don’t think there are words to express how excited I am to bring you the Release Day Launch for Heather Lyons’ THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN! THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN is an Adult Romantic Fairy Tale, full of adventure and fantasy and the third book in Heather’s The Collectors’ Society Series! It is absolutely incredible and a book you will not want to miss!

After years spent in Wonderland, Alice Reeve learned the impossible was quite possible after all. She thought she left such fantastical realities behind when she finally returned to England.

Now Alice has become a member of the clandestine Collectors’ Society, and the impossible has found her again in the form of an elusive villain set on erasing entire worlds. As she and the rest of the Society race to bring this mysterious murderer to justice, the fight becomes painfully personal.

Lives are being lost. Loved ones are shattered or irrevocably altered. Each step closer Alice gets to the shadowy man she hunts, the more secrets she unravels, only to reveal chilling truths. If she wants to win this war and save millions of lives, Alice must once more embrace the impossible and make the unimaginable, imaginable.

Sometimes, the rabbit hole leads to terrifying places.

You can purchase your copy at the retailers listed below!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo

If I could give a book a million golden stars, this would be the one. THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN has upped the Collectors’ Society game and once again, captured my attention with its incredible heart, valor, passion, and creativity! In years to come this series will be one I recommend to young and old alike. The brilliance of this story and series is one that should be savored and adored by all the world over.

When THE HIDDEN LIBRARY ended, there was no guarantee or direction as to what Heather Lyon’ ‘had in store for her Society. There was chaos, heartbreak, and pain woven into those final pages and once I got my hands on this story I was equal parts terrified of what I would find and thrilled to finally have another piece of the puzzle. This story does not disappoint. It takes us on a rabbit trail that is shocking and utter perfection- the best next step for the series. The beauty of this series is that there is no way to know what will come next. There are logical next steps for the characters at hand in a big picture sort of way but the details are not even comprehendible until they are penned to paper. The obvious objective is to save the Timelines and stop the bad guy. It could be straight forward and boring in its delivery but instead Heather Lyons continues to weave a world filled with stories of our childhood into something more.  The details revealed and the journeys taken in this book are paramount. You have to give this book your full attention lest you miss something important. There are hidden meanings and innuendos every step of the way and it is the details that make this story brilliant.

Alice is ever the literary badass that keeps getting better and better. She has been taken, in my mind, from a young wandering and aimless girl to a strong, confident, and powerful ally. She is determination personified. It is this journey in my mind as I now meet a grown Alice that makes her even better. This woman has seen and experienced the impossible, which in turn allows her to achieve the unthinkable in her task at hand. She is a warrior and a queen; two sides of a coin that is worth its weight in gold.

I will not spoil this story but know that it takes a turn in such a way that is shocking and delightful. More stories are drawn into the fold, more characters to know and love. When truth is discovered, more questions are asked. The emotional depth and passion to this book will have you rooting against all odds, taking the reader to a place we know and love- where anything can happen and true love saves the day. There are twists and turns in these story- ones you might foresee and others that you cannot possibly understand. There is power, magic, and comradery. The truth that is uncovered is shocking and terrifying. It is a bit frightening to know that at this point in the story, anything could happen. There are so many storylines and ideas running amuck that there is no way to predict what happens next. I was shocked as I read to see where these characters ended up. Their destination was not on the radar for me in the slightest and THAT is what keeps this story fresh and wonderful. The possibilities are endless in this world that Heather has created. You see more of characters outside of Finn and Alice- learning about Jack and seeing the world in a new light. You explore new stories and see how things are interconnected in a creative and scary way. And that ending… talk about terrifying, confusing, and sinister.

Each word written in this book is the epitome of a dream come true for every book nerd and literature lover in the world. Watching characters from the beloved classics and the stories of our childhood come to life and battle evil is something that will forever change your perspective of a simple book. This story allows the inner child in me to take heed and know that I can be strong like Alice- evolving into something more than one ever thought could be. It might sound cheesy but this book allows readers to take charge of the world they find in the pages of a book and learn to delve deeper into a story than they ever thought possible. The possibilities are needless and that idea is heady and exciting. I will never read a story the same way again, always wondering what happens to my favorite characters after the last word of their written story. These characters live on in our hearts and I love the idea that they live in our world too!

The van door behind us slides shut. A click signals Marianne’s adherence to my wishes, and then we three descend upon the front door, the crunch of dead leaves and twigs beneath our feet cutting through the uneasy silence the gloom sunrise has brought. In a surprising show of gentlemanly manners, the A.D. moves to open the door. When the handle does not depress, a half smile curves his lips. “It’s locked. But no worries. I can have it picked open in no time.”

“There is no need.”

Darkish-blonde brows scrunch together. “But—”

“Stand to the side, please.”

When he fails to move at my thinly veiled order, Mary not so gently yanks our companion away.

The door before us is thick. The handle is ornate. It is a beautiful door, no doubt chosen specifically to adorn a building as fine as Bücherei. It takes me three strong, measured swings of my war hammer against the handle and its surrounding area to break it apart and permanently scar its beauty. Picking a lock is kind, respectful even. A picked lock can be relocked. I do not wish this door to close behind me. I do not wish to be respectful of Bücherei.

The time for genteel manners is gone.

The A.D. is in danger of catching flies with his mouth as he ogles the door’s remnants. For someone who professes to be so clever, he certainly underestimates ladies far too often.

Stale darkness, oppressive and opaque all at once, looms before us. I am unafraid, though. I am not even taken aback. I believe in the impossible, after all. I have seen, lived the impossible.

I step past the wreckage into the house.

Don’t miss the first two books in THE COLLECTORS’ SOCIETY Series!

THE COLLECTORS’ SOCIETY!

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Goodreads

From the author of the Fate series and The Deep End of the Sea comes a fantastical romantic adventure that has Alice tumbling down the strangest rabbit hole yet.

After years in Wonderland, Alice has returned to England as an adult, desperate to reclaim sanity and control over her life. An enigmatic gentleman with an intriguing job offer too tempting to resist changes her plans for a calm existence, though. Soon, she’s whisked to New York and initiated into the Collectors’ Society, a secret organization whose members confirm that famous stories are anything but straightforward and that what she knows about the world is only a fraction of the truth.

It’s there she discovers villains are afoot—ones who want to shelve the lives of countless beings. Assigned to work with the mysterious and alluring Finn, Alice and the rest of the Collectors’ Society race against a doomsday clock in order to prevent further destruction . . . but will they make it before all their endings are erased?

* This is the first book in the adult romance/fairy tale Collectors’ Society series.

THE HIDDEN LIBRARY

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Sometimes, the rabbit hole is deeper than expected . . .

Alice Reeve and Finn Van Brunt have tumbled into a life of secrets. Some secrets they share, such as their employment by the clandestine organization known as The Collectors’ Society. Other secrets they carry within them, fighting to keep buried the things that could change everything they think they know.

On the hunt for an elusive villain who is hell-bent on destroying legacies, Alice, Finn, and the rest of the Society are desperate to unravel the mysteries surrounding them. But the farther they spiral down this rabbit hole, the deeper they fall into secrets that will test their loyalties and pit them against enemies both new and old.

Secrets, they come to find, can reveal the deadliest of truths.

* This is the second book in the adult romance/fairy tale Collectors’ Society series.

To celebrate the release of THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN, Heather Lyons is hosting an incredible giveaway! For your chance to win a The Collectors’ Society Series bracelet and a signed paperback of THE COLLECTORS’ SOCIETY enter this Rafflecopter giveaway. Just follow the instructions listed for your chance to win. Don’;t miss out on this awesome giveaway! Good luck!

 

Heather Lyons writes epic, heartfelt love stories and has always had a thing for words. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. She and her husband and children live in sunny Southern California and are currently working their way through every cupcakery she can find.

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Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway: The Hooker and the Hermit by L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid

Welcome to The Hooker and the Hermit Blog Tour! This is my first collaboration of 2015 and it is going to set a very high standard for any that follow this year! L.H Cosway and Penny Reid have created a masterpiece! Check out more about the book, Tina’s Thoughts, and a giveaway to celebrate! 

The Hooker and the Hermit
by L.H. Cosway, Penny Reid
Publication Date: February 5, 2015
Genres: Contemporary, Romance

 

 

New York’s Finest
Blogging as *The Socialmedialite*
April 22
LADIES AND GENTS! I have an announcement!

You know that guy I featured on my blog a few months ago? The really, really hot Irish rugby player who plays the position of ‘hooker’ in the RLI (Rugby League International)? The one with the anger management issues, the body of a gladiator and the face of a movie star? The one with the questionable fashion choices leading me to ask whether he was the lovechild of a leprechaun and a hobbit? Ronan Fitzpatrick? Yeah, that guy. Well, I have a confession to make…

THE HERMIT

Annie Catrel, social media expert extraordinaire at Davidson & Croft Media and clandestine celebrity blogger, can make anyone shine in the court of public opinion. She is the Socialmedialite, anonymous creator of New York’s Finest and the internet’s darling. Virtual reality is Annie’s forte, but actual reality? Not so much.

THE HOOKER

Ronan Fitzpatrick, aka the best hooker the world of rugby has seen in decades, despises the media—social or otherwise. The press has spun a web of lies depicting him as rugby’s wild and reckless bad boy. Suspended from his team, Ronan has come to Manhattan to escape the drama, lay low, fly under the radar. Only, Ronan isn’t easy to overlook, and he can’t escape the notice of the Socialmedialite…

THE PLAN

When Ronan is sent to Davidson & Croft Media to reshape his public image, he never expects to cross paths with shy but beautiful Annie, nor does he expect his fierce attraction to her. He couldn’t be happier when her boss suggests pairing them together.
What lengths will Annie take to keep her virtual identity concealed? And what happens when the hooker discovers who the hermit really is?

You can purchase your copy of The Hooker and There Hermit at the retailers listed below! Don’t miss this incredible story!

Amazon US • Amazon UK • B&N • Kobo • iBooks • Smashwords

How do you begin to put into words something that was so incredible that you just want to say “experience it yourself and then you will see the greatness that is this book”? The Hooker and the Hermit is just that. It is a brilliant collaboration between two equally fresh and incredible authors, each bringing a flair and style that is unique and melds together so beautifully. Penny Reid is one of my favorite authors of all time. L.H. Cosway is still a new to me author, but be assured, after this book, the majority of her writing collection now resides in my kindle library.

The Hooker and the Hermit is a fresh romantic tale featuring a rugby player, a man by the name of Ronan, who plays the hooker position in rugby, and the hermit, Annie, a woman who is so socially isolated yet digitally free. When you put two such intriguing and well rounded characters between the pages of this book, it is an explosion of literary greatness between the covers. I appreciate that this story has every element that the romantic readers needs but it goes above and beyond the status quo of books today. The depth and character development is spot on and the themes are unique and fun. This book is filled with passion, lust, love, individuality, personality, appropriate drama, and fascinating situations.

If you were to look up the definition of hermit with a twist from a literary standpoint, you would find that Annie is the definition. She is reserved, painfully shy, and so closed off from the world around her. She is a brilliant at what she does- able to turn a negative image in the media into one that is glowing and bright. Yet what people do not know is that her ability to blend in and fly under the radar allows her to fulfill her most outgoing endeavor and alternate personality of the Socialmedialite, the anonymous creator of New York’s Finest and the internet’s darling, the one known by all with millions of friends and contacts, the complete opposite of Annie in every way. Annie’s character has a quiet strength that exudes from the pages of this book, one that is wrapped in a reserved package. She is fun, flirty, and socially awkward. As the story progresses, we see a woman who is allowing her world to be broadened and her two lives cannot help but to meld into one, creating a force to be reckoned with.

Ronan is the epitome of the sexy athlete with a streak of bad boy. He is the perfect counter part to Annie. He is smooth, sexy, intimidating, and kind. He is a family man, one who loves and protects his mother and sister. He is a teammate and a man who knows exactly what he wants. His outgoing and strong personality is a force to be reckoned with. He gets what he wants and his determination is what brings to life a new confidence within Annie. They are two seemingly opposite people who click in a way that is pure magic.

The passion and sex is woah. The drama and angst is powerful but not overwhelming. The chemistry is off the charts amazing. The relationships are strong and well developed. There is a level of intrigue that heightens the story line. Dual POVs allow the reader greater insight and a broader understanding of what is happening and how deep this story goes. It is not just a story about a rugby player and a world famous blogging hermit, it is a story about love, learning to embrace your life with no room for fear, and stepping out to achieve and grasp what you so desperately desire.

The Hooker and the Hermit has it all. There is mystery, passion, and conflict. There is character transformation and deep connections. You will laugh out loud at the banter and antics of the main characters. This story will woo your heart and take up residence there. This book takes the best of both Penny and L.H.’s writing  skills and creates a force to be reckoned with. It is fresh and alive. This collaboration has opened up a whole new world to the reader and I hope that this is not the last we see of these two working together. Make sure to check out The Hooker and the Hermit! Prepare yourself for something fantastic.

As if an spectacular book from Penny and L.H. isn’t enough, these two authors have teamed up to bring you a fantastic giveaway! What is it you ask? Well let me tell you. Enter this RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY for your chance to win signed books from: Mia Sheridan, April White, Daisy Prescott, Tara Sivec, Penny Reid, LH Cosway AND a signed Tote from Wicked Book Weekend and has a ton of author signatures, including Kristen Ashley, Tara Sivec, Chelle Bliss, etc. That is pretty incredible! Don’t miss out. Make sure to enter today. Good luck!

… About L.H. Cosway …

L.H. Cosway has a BA in English Literature and Greek and Roman Civilisation, and an MA in Postcolonial Literature. She lives in Dublin city. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.

She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.

Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

… About Penny Reid …

SEX! It all started with sex, between my parents. Personally I don’t like thinking about it, but whatever works for you is a-ok with me. No judgment. The sex happened in California and much of my life also occurred in that state until I moved from the land of nuts (almonds), wine, silicon… boobs, and heavy traffic to the southeast US. Like most writers I like to write, but let’s get back to sex. Eventually I married and gave birth to 2 small people-children (boy-6, girl-4 as of this writing).

By day I’m a biomedical researcher with focus on rare diseases. By night I’m a knitter, sewer, lino block carver, fabric printer, soap maker, and general crafter. By the wee hours of the morning or when I’m intoxicated I love to listen to the voices in my head and let them tell me stories. I hope you enjoy their stories.

Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

 

Book Trailer Reveal: BLURRED LINES by Jen McLaughlin

Blurred Lines by Jen McLaughlin will be releasing January 26th, but first we have some exclusive content to share. FINNClub team members have been sharing special details from the book this week in order to share their excitement for the new novel. Be sure to check out the contest below for a chance to win the series. Today we have the incredible book trailer from Blurred Lines.

 

Once burned…

Finding my fiancée naked on my couch might’ve been a good thing, if her ex-boyfriend hadn’t been with her. For the past eight years I’ve been a witness to the power of true love, but after getting burned I’d decided there wasn’t any hope for me finding it for myself. Until I met Noelle Brandt in a hotel bar. Maybe it wasn’t the most romantic meeting, but the moment I met her I knew I had to have her. The more I learn about her, the more I know I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her.

Twice shy…

I’d already found the love of my life, but I’d lost that love forever. And I’d been lost ever since. But one night a wounded man makes all of that go away. He makes me laugh, live, and feel alive. When he tells me he has no intention of letting me go, I finally begin to believe in the power of true love again. That is, until I find out who he really is…and by then, it’s far too late to correct the mistakes we’ve already made. By the time we both know the truth, the lines have already been blurred beyond recognition.

It is Friday and that is always a good thing! To make it even better, Jen and the people over at Inkslinger PR are giving away an incredible prize pack in honor of this upcoming release! Here is what you could win: an ebook set of OUT OF LINE, OUT OF TIME, OUT OF MIND, and the adult standalone title FRACTURED LINES by Jen McLaughlin! AMAZING! So make sure to enter this Rafflecopter giveaway today for your chance to win! Good luck!

 Jen McLaughlin is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of sexy New Adult books. Under her pen name Diane Alberts, she is a multi-published, bestselling author of Contemporary Romance with Entangled Publishing. Her first release as Jen McLaughlin, Out of Line, released September 6 2013, and hit the New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal lists. She was mentioned in Forbes alongside E. L. James as one of the breakout independent authors to dominate the bestselling lists. She is represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency.

Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. Though she lives in the mountains, she really wishes she was surrounded by a hot, sunny beach with crystal-clear water. She lives in Northeast Pennsylvania with her four kids, a husband, a schnauzer mutt, and a cat. Her goal is to write so many well-crafted romance books that even a non-romance reader will know her name.

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Blog Tour + Review: Night Hush (Honor & Duty #1) by Leslie Jones

Need a good book? Well look no further! Leslie Jones’ debut novel, NIGHT HUSH, is fantastic and I cannot wait to read more of the Duty & Honor Series! Check out more about the book and Tina’s Thoughts below!

NIGHT HUSH
Duty & Honor #1
Leslie Jones
Genre: Thrillers/Military – Adult
Publish Date: January 20, 2015
Publisher: Witness Impulse

When Army Intelligence Officer Heather Langstrom’s military convoy is ambushed and she’s taken prisoner, she knows she’ll need all her strength and courage to survive, escape her captors, and report the whispers of unrest brewing in the Middle East.

Delta Force Captain Jace Reed isn’t one to throw caution to the wind,but when his team stumbles upon beaten and weak Heather fleeing the terrorist training camp they’ve been dispatched to destroy, he’ll risk everything to get her to safety.

Once back on base, they learn her convoy’s ambush was no accident…she’d been targeted. As the evidence of an impending attack mounts, Jace and Heather uncover a deadly terrorist plot that could kill hundreds of civilians. But Jace’s protective instincts and Heather’s fierce independence put them at constant odds. And as they close in on the extremists, they must learn to trust one another in order to save innocent lives…even if it means sacrificing
their own.

You can purchase your copy today at the retailers listed below!

HarperCollins/Amazon/Barnes&Noble

I have always admired the brave men and women who protect and fight for our freedom. This book gives us a small glimpse into their world: the good, the bad, and the ugly. NIGHT HUSH is a story that focuses on two main characters: Army Intelligence Officer Heather Langstrom and Delta Force Captain Jace Reed. At the very beginning of the story, Heather is being tortured as a captive of the local military activists. Her convoy was ambushed and she was taken prisoner, a target as a result of what she might or might not know. When Jace and his team are on a mission, Heather literally stumbles into their hide out and it is a race to survival to elude the enemy. When they are safely back to base, it is a slow recovery process for Heather, allowing her mind, body, and heart to begin healing from such a terrible ordeal. Heather and Jace begin to grow closer and sparks fly. More pieces to the puzzle begin to emerge, ones that are connected to Heather’s capture and Jace’s mission, and they must stop an attack before it is too late.

If you love action stories, military stories, romance, or  just a good book, then this one is for you. NIGHT HUSH was an incredible story and I loved every single word! This book was entertaining, suspenseful, and enlightening. It opens the reader’s eyes to the military world in a realistic way. I appreciated how the hard situations and emotions were not glazed over. Instead we struggle with Heather through the trauma she has experienced and cheer her on to take steps to full healing. We see the characters make  hard choices and attempt to do what is right, no matter the consequences.

Heather and Jace were paramount to this story. These two characters were well written and authentic, which makes this book top notch.  Heather is a strong female character, one who is reliant only on herself and no one else. When she is held captive, she hits a breaking point and saves herself from the captors, only to be saved in return. She is a feisty woman who knows what she wants and will do whatever it takes to get it. She is smart, kind, and vulnerable. She is never weak but sometimes the strongest will eventually break. Jace is the wonderful hero of this story who saves Heather. He is strong, reliable, and brave. He longs to protect her but must learn what she can handle on her own and what she needs help with. Their relationship is a partnership of give and take, in which both are on equal ground.

The story itself is high action and intense. When reading NIGHT HUST, you see the ugly side of war and humanity but you also see the heroes and the beauty of courage and hope. I loved this story and I cannot wait to see what is in store for the Duty & Honor Series! If this book is any indication, it is going to be amazing!

Leslie Jones has been an IT geek, a graphic designer, and, much like her heroine, an Army Intelligence officer, bringing her firsthand experience to the pages of her works. She’s lived in Alaska, Korea, Belgium, Germany, and other exotic locations (including New Jersey). She is a wife, mother, and full-time writer and splits her time between Scottsdale, Arizona, and Cincinnati, Ohio.

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