Review: Art & Soul by Claire Huston*

 

'There’s no problem Becky Watson can’t fix. Except her own love life…

Struggling single mother Becky Watson longs to revive her career as a life-fixer, working miracles to solve her clients’ problems, no matter how big or small. Since the birth of her two-year-old son she has been stuck preventing wedding fiascos for the richest and rudest residents of the Comptons, a charming, leafy area of southern England known for its artistic heritage.

So when semi-reclusive local artist Charlie Handren reluctantly hires Becky to fix his six-year creative slump, she’s delighted to set him up with a come-back exhibition and Rachel Stone, the woman of his dreams.

Though they get off to a rocky start, Becky and Charlie soon become close. But as the beautiful Rachel becomes Charlie’s muse, Becky is forced to wonder: will giving Charlie everything he wants mean giving up her own happily ever after?'

This is the story of Becky and Charlie, which is told over 53 Chapters. What interesting chapters they are. From the very beginning of this book readers will find themselves intrigued and interested. Not only by the characters but also by the things that are revealed later in the story. The readers may start with questions but throughout this book they will all be answered. 

This book is not just seperated by Chapters, but the author has also used the chapters to move the months on. Don’t worry though it is done in a way where the reader doesn’t feel like they have missed anything. 

Throughout the book the point of view switches between both Becky and Charlie meaning the reader is given a very full picture of what is going on, not only in the story but also the characters heads. As well as this the author also allows the reader to find out more about the more background characters and not just the basic information. 

The characters of Becky and Charlie themselves could not be more different. Becky is a single mum who is very organized, where Charlie is a bit of a mess. This story is well written, with chapters that vary in length. Some are quite long while others are short. This difference is brilliant for readers as the changing lengths mean that sometimes they fly through the chapters while others take a little longer. It is also full of moments that will leave readers laughing out loud. There are many mentions of cake, which will leave the readers wanting the recipes, well at least this reader wants the recipes.

Overall I loved the story. Something unique about this story is that the romance is more of a slow burn instead of an intense quick burn. This story was absolutely amazing and I am very happy that I did not miss this book. It can be described as a brilliant mix of love, art and cake!This feature is very refreshing for this reader. You can get your copy HERE

Until Next Time

Emma

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Blog Tour: Reunited with Her Blue-Eyed Billionaire By Barbara Wallace*

 'For billionaire Whit Martin, Jamie Rutkowski is the one who got away. Now his college girlfriend is back to celebrate their best’s friend’s marriage. As their chemistry reignites into an even greater passion, Whit’s determined that this time their relationship will work. But are they ready to unlock the secrets of their past…if it means a chance at forever?'

This is the story of Jamie and Whit, which is told over 11 Chapters (+Epilogue), now this may not sound like a long book but boy oh boy is it good. The main theme that runs throughout this book is that communication is key and very essential, especially when you are talking about relationships. 

Now the story is compelling from the fist line, to the point that readers will quickly become addicted at not only wanting to know what happens next but also wanting to find out the secrets that these two characters hold. The point of view clearly switches between Whit and Jamie and this is exactly what is need to give the reader a full 360 picture of what is going through the characters minds. This is really present with the fact that both characters remember the past from their own perspective which differ slightly. 

The descriptions in this book are superb, that readers will love creating an image in their mind of exactly where Whit and Jamie are. Not only this but the book has these moments that will leave the reader giggling to themselves. Not only that it is filled with relatable moments that readers will adore. 

Now let me tell you about the Author Barbara Wallace, who is the best selling author of over two dozen romance and cozy mystery novels. These books can be found world wide in countries including the UK, France, Germany, Canada, Italy and Australia.  Barbara is a native New Englander, who lives in the suburbs with her husband of thirty-one years. Their only son is married and lives on a farm in the middle of nowhere. When she isn't writing you will find Barbara hard at work for her other job of an unappreciated caretaker to two demanding rescue cats. The same cats who think laps are for petting, not laptop computers. 

Overall this book is superb with an ending that really ties everything together with a nice little bow. The past relationship that these two have shared is ever present throughout keeping the reader on their toes wondering if the present will have the same ending. You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: Her Banished Knight's Redemption By Melissa Oliver*

 'A lady’s need for protection 

A knight’s chance for redemption

Exiled Knight William Geraint answers only to himself. Yet, a mission to find and reunite lost heiress Lady Isabel de Clancey with her family is Will’s chance to finally atone for the torment of his past. With every rushed mile, their intense attraction becomes dangerously thrilling. He swore to protect Isabel not seduce her, but their desire for each other could threaten the redemption he’s worked so hard to achieve…'

This is the second book in the 'Notorious Knights' series and is all about Knight William Geraint and Lady Isabel de Clancey. The story is told over 24 Chapters (+Prologue) and what a story it is. This book really gets straight into the story and how these characters meet, this meeting alone is full of intrigue and very unique. This feature makes it a brilliant for the readers. 

The characters themselves are wonderful. Isabel and Will are two very strong willed characters. This makes there interactions spectacular, as both characters very much believe that what they are saying is best. One thing that is clear to the reader is that these two have some serious chemistry between them. What's even better is that Will and Isabel can tell!

Now let me tell you about the Author Melissa Oliver, who is from south-west London where she writes her historical romance novels. Melissa lives with her husband and daughters, who share her passion for decrepit, old castles, palaces and all things historical. Melissa is the Winner of The Romantic Novelist Association's Joan Hessayon Award for new writers 2020. This was for her debut novel, the first book in the Notorious Knight's series called The Rebel Heiress and the Knight. 

Overall this book is a heartwarming mix of will they/ won't they moments, which will also get the readers emotions involved. This story is also easy to get addicted to, to the point that readers will not notice how many chapters are gong back.  This reader can't wait to read the first one in this series and any future ones to come. You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

 

Blog Tour: Let Me Love You by Lasairona E. McMaster*

'Jilted by the only woman he’s ever loved, Jeremy Lewis is a man on a mission to be a renowned player – both on and off the ice. Who needs monogamy anyway?

But when he falls during a game, Jeremy finds himself laid-up with a potentially career-ending injury and his support network, suddenly gone. His best friend, AJ, is busy in a new relationship, his teammates are pursuing their own dreams of hockey stardom, and Jeremy is left frustrated, broken and alone.

Will their friendship survive AJ’s new relationship? Are Jeremy’s feelings for Chelsea truly a thing of the past? And can he persevere through his recovery to get back on the ice?'

This is the 2nd book in the Jeremy Lewis series and boy oh boy is it worth a read. The story that is told over 31 Chapters is choc full of everything that I have come to love when it comes to Lasairiona's work. Full of those 'taboo' subjects like mental health and sexuality. Now although it is the second in this series it very much can be read as a standalone novel, but for the best experience (and because the first one is awesome) I would highly recommend you read the first book before hand. 

Within the first couple of pages of this book the author gives a recap on what has happened in the previous book. This not too much to bore readers who have it read it but just enough to jog there memory and inform brand new readers what has gone on. The book picks up close to where the first one ended which is always brilliant. 

There are two main plot points that are mentioned in the blurb which are Jeremy getting injured and being jilted by his love. The story gets straight into the plot to the point that before the reader hits double digit in the Chapters one of the plot points is very much underway. There is also the underlying plot point in this story of Jeremy and his friendships. Now I only call this one underlying as I was very much focused on the other two. Though all three are mentioned throughout the book.

Now it isn't smooth sailing for Jeremy in this book as the Author has thrown a lot of obstacles in his way. These obstacles make this book even more captivating to the reader. So captivating that readers will find it hard to put down, that is until they have read every last word. 

Now let me tell you a little bit about the Author Lasairiona McMaster, she writes sassy, classy and badassy women with strong, yet vulnerable men. She openly deals with mental health issues and challenges the readers expectations. She often explores tough-to-handle topics and 'taboos' and books with a whole lotta heart. She can either be found baking sweet treats in her kitchen while singing at the top of her lungs, or enjoying a gin and lemonade by the Irish Sea. When she is 'home' in Texas she can be found at Chuys eating her body weight in chips and queso, washing it down with a margarite swirl, that's if she isn't eating freshly popped popcorn while buying things she doesn't need in Target. 

Overall the book was easy to get stuck into and full of events that keep the readers interest. What's brilliant is that there will be a third book in this series, which personally makes this reader very happy. Though I must warn anyone who is interested in this book, the more AJ (Jeremy's best friend) is mentioned the more you will want to read his own series. It has now gone onto my 'To Read' list. You can get your copy of this book HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

 

Blog Tour: A Waltz with the Outspoken Governess by Catherine Tinley*

 

'A quiet governess…

An unruly heart

Sir Nicholas Denny is desperate to find a governess to care for his boisterous nieces and nephews. Demure vicar’s daughter Mary Smith seems ideal—at first. All too soon Nicholas discovers a different side to her… She's a beautiful, vivacious woman, even if she infuriates him with her strong opinions! When he waltzes with Mary at a party he knows he’s in trouble—the spark between them is so tempting, but she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a wife!'

This is the story of Sir Nicholas and Mary, it is told over 29 Chapters as well as an Epilogue. It is the first book in a series called Dollar Duchesses and if the rest is anything like this one, then this reader has a new series to look out for. 

One of the best things about this book is not only the character interactions but also Mary as a character. Now Mary is a very strong character who knows her own mind, she also seems to be a character who was born in the wrong time. This aspect of the character makes the book and the story all the more interesting. However at the same time I feel like Mary is also naïve but that could be because she has very little experience with the opposite sex. 

This book is filled with intriguing moments and simmering passion, that readers will adore. Everything that makes up this book readers will enjoy. From the character interactions, especially the interactions between the main characters Sir Nicholas and Mary. 

Let me tell you a little bit about the Author Catherine Tinley. She is an award winning author who writes witty, heartwarming, Regency love stories for Harlequin Mills & Boon. She has loved reading and writing since childhood, and has a particular fondness for love, romance and happy endings. After a carer encompassing speech & language therapy, NHS Management, maternity campaigning and being President of a Charity, she now works in Sure Start. She lives in Ireland with her husband, children and dog. She can be reached at www.catherinetinley.com, as well as www.facebook.com/CatherineTinleyWriter and @CatherineTinley on twitter.

Readers will realise very quickly that this book is very hard to put down. Once they have started they will not want to stop until the find out the ending and have read every single word. Not only that the reader will be so engrossed in the story that they will not notice how many chapters are passing. You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: The Heiress's Pregnancy Surprise by Donna Alward*

 

'A VIP assignment…

an unexpected consequence!

Ex-SAS officer Jacob Wolfe’s latest job, as aristocrat Charlotte Pemberton’s bodyguard, is pushing him to his limits. Never one to step over the line, he’s determined to ignore their intense connection. Until a single dance leads to a forbidden kiss… and Jacob is tempted to break all his rules. But their resulting night together has an unexpected consequence…'

This is the story of Jacob Wolfe and Charlotte Pemberton, two people who couldn’t be more different. One a ex-SAS and the other works PR in their families fashion empire. This story is told over 16 chapters filled with chemistry and intrigue. 

One thing that is clear from the beginning is the chemistry these two characters have between them. Sometimes the chemistry is simmering below the surface and other times it is clear as day  right in front of them. Add to that the fact that the descriptions are so amazing, to the point the reader will be able to visualise the scenes.

Charlotte and Jacob do tend to make assumptions about the other, and to the readers delight they will love finding out how wrong or right these assumptions are. This book also offers a refreshing twist. In regards to who is more open and who is more on guard with their feelings. This twist really makes the end of the book even more interesting.

Charlotte’s family is mentioned throughout this book and it really intrigued the reader. The mentions leave the reader wanting to know more about them especially as their is hints that their own stories will be interesting. 

While bestselling author Donna Alward was busy studying Austen, Eliot and Shakespeare, she was also losing herself in the breathtaking stories created by romance novelists like LaVyrle Spencer and Judith McNaught.  Several years after completing her degree she decided to write a romance of her own and it was true love! Five years and ten manuscripts later she sold her first book and launched a new career. While her heartwarming stories of love, hope, and homecoming have been translated into several languages, hit bestseller lists and won awards, her very favorite thing is when she hears from happy readers.
Donna lives on Canada’s east coast. When she’s not writing she enjoys reading (of course!), knitting, gardening, cooking…and is a Masterpiece Theater addict.  You can visit her on the web at www.DonnaAlward.com and join her mailing list at www.DonnaAlward.com/newsletter .

Overall I really enjoyed this book and was delighted to find out that it is the 2nd book in the ‘Heirs to an Empire’ series. The first story is about Charlotte’s brother and the third story is about her sister. I hope Donna has more planned because this reader certainly loved this book. I will be buying the rest of this series. You can get your copy HERE

Until Next Time

Emma
XX

Review: Bound To You by J.C. Harroway*

 

'Betting it all on one night of pleasure!

Lone wolf billionaire Hudson Black is Monroe’s business partner…and the sexiest mistake she ever made! When a typhoon traps them in his Tokyo office, a naughty competition takes things from intense to incendiary! Will their mutual seduction destroy their business and their hearts?'

So this is the story of Hudson and Monroe, it is told over 14 Chapters (+Epilogue). From the outset of this story the sexual tension between these characters is sizzling. The underlying sexual tension that is there from the start really builds the anticipation to the moment that these characters will come together in their first sexy scene. 

The story gets straight into the story with the two main characters interacting and showing the readers that their verbal exchanges are top notch. These exchanges also help build that anticipation, making the reader desire to read these characters first sexy scene. 

When it comes to the sexy scenes, these really are everything that the reader wants. Full of anticipation and lip bitingly good scenes. These characters really love to build the tension between themselves with not only fourplay but also word play. 

This story is really easy to get addicted to and readers will soon find themselves flying through this book. They will find themselves in two minds as part of them will want to know what will happen. While the other half will want the book to keep going. 

Overall I absolutely loved this book, it is full of moments that will have the reader falling in love with this author as well as their style of writing. It is truly another sensational book by this author who if readers didn't already love, they certainly will by the end of this book. I can't wait until her next book. This particular book is out now and you can buy it HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Review: Unexpectedly Wed To The Officer by Jenni Fletcher*

 

'From shopkeeper…To officer’s wife

With a scandal in her past, shopkeeper Henrietta Gardiner has become wary of men, including her friend’s brother, dashing officer Sebastian Fortini. When Henrietta is called upon to take in her three young nephews, Sebastian is on hand to help her, even offering a convenient marriage as a solution! Henrietta starts to realise her new husband’s carefree exterior hides a more intriguing interior…but where will that leave their hasty marriage?'

This is the second book within the Regency Belles of Bath series by Jenni, though they can be read as standalone novels. This is the story of Henrietta and Sebastian and is told over 26 Chapters (+Epilogue). Readers beware though this book is so easy to get sucked into as you will not want to put it down. 

This book is full of some misunderstandings between the characters which ends up for an interesting story. To begin with it does seem like the attraction is one sided, I won't tell you who but as the story progress's the reader discovers the truth. What's brilliant about this book is that it will suck the reader in and grab their attention from the very beginning. It is interesting and intriguing leaving readers wanting to know what happens. 

Readers will find themselves invested in this story but not only that they will find themselves invested in the other characters, wanting to know their stories. The readers will be left with the urge to read the first one in the series, especially if they like me haven't read it yet. The first couple is mentioned in this book a few times which just helps that urge to grow. 

Overall I completely loved this story and will be purchasing the first book as soon as possible. From my reckoning I believe there is at least one more story in this series, though I am hoping for more, especially a certain set of characters that you will meet in this book. You can get your copy HERE and start this series yourself. 

Until Next Time

Emma

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