Blog Tour: One Last Kiss by A.S. Kelly*

 

'Rian

Allow me to introduce myself.

My name is Rian Kerry, and I’m in huge trouble.

This is how it happened: I had a crush. You know those teenage crushes, which I’m sure you’ve all experienced, too. It was that kind of crush that makes your knees tremble, that makes you blush violently and stammer when you’re with that person. One of those crushes that you assume you’ll just grow out of, the way the seasons change.

The problem is that my crush didn’t go anywhere. Actually, it only got worse, transforming into something absurd and unbearable, which no one could seem to understand.

Especially not him.

Because he’s off-limits. He’s barricaded himself within his walls, from a sense of fear and guilt. He’s locked up his heart forever, and seems to have no intention of letting anyone in ever again.

My friends, Jordan, Anya, and Holly, say that he just needs a little push. They say that he needs to learn to believe again.

But I don’t think he’ll ever be ready, because he simply doesn’t want to be.

He doesn’t want to believe.

Not in something like us.

Parker

Allow me to introduce myself.

My name is Parker Hayes, and I’m an idiot.

Yep, you heard me right. I’m a real idiot. And, I swear, that’s putting it lightly.

But I’m a lot of other things, too. I’m a fireman, and a single father to two cheeky, hyperactive six-year-old twins. I’m a brother to Tyler, another fireman – and another idiot – who always seems to stick his nose into my business. I’m a kind-of friend to Niall, yet another idiot with nothing to do but barge into my life, uninvited.

Let’s get back to the point, here: the reason I’m an idiot.

Well, it’s pretty simple. I’ve lost my mind. Literally. It happened again. I fell for it. With my head, with my body, and with the heart I was sure I’d never be able to piece back together after another inevitable disaster.

The problem is that she’s not like the others.

She bakes cakes with my daughters, laughs with them, and shows them her magic bag. They’re crazy about her.

And so am I.

And now she knows it, and I know it, and everyone around us knows it. But I can’t take that step. I can’t let everything go to start over.

I can’t live through this again – because this time, I won’t be left standing.

Not if she’s the one to break my heart.'

This is Rian and Parker’s story, which is told over the course of 60 chapters (+ Epilogue). Now that sounds like a lot however the chapters are a good length meaning it doesn’t seem like it goes on forever. Also if anything readers may be in awe that there is 60 chapters due to being immersed in the story. 

One thing that stands out in this book to this reader is that both Rian & Parker talk to the reader. This breaks the fourth wall down and immerses the reader even more into their story. The interaction with the reader is something unique that this book lover doesn’t see often but enjoyed immensely. It felt there was another reader having the exact same thoughts.

Now the characters of Rian and Parker are exciting and interesting. From the very beginning it is clear that these two have something simmering between them just below the surface. Not only that but there is also hints of a shared history, which neither character wants to divulge at the start but no fears that history does come to light. 

This book is filled with laugh out loud funny moments that readers will adore. Not only that but the entire story as well as the characters make this one addictive and consuming read. Readers will love immersing themselves in this story as well as finding out about the other characters.

Let me tell you about the Author Alex Kelly, who writes uplifting, emotional and heartwarming romantic fiction and family saga. She is a bibliophile, a Yogi, a lover of English Literature and a baking enthusiast. Alex was born in Italy but now lives in Ireland with her husband their two children and a cat named Oscar. 

Overall this is a brilliant book and readers will love watching Rian & Parker’s story as well as finding out about their history. It was after I finished this book that this reader discovered it is actually the third instalment of the ‘Love at Last’ series. The other books look at Niall Kerry and Tyler Hayes. Two characters you will fall in with in this book. I for one will be checking the rest of this series out. You can get your copy HERE

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Review: Two For Interference by Lasairiona McMaster*

 

'Bookish. Bold. Beautiful. And entirely out of his league.

On paper, all-American boy next door, Lincoln Scott, has it all. But behind his slap shots, straight-A report card, and easy going charm, Linc hides a secret only his best friend knows.

When he attempts to return a misplaced bra, a wrong number gets him way more than the hook-up he bargained for. No one has ever looked beyond the star hockey player, until the mysterious woman he can’t stop texting sees him for who he really is.

Does Linc have the skills off the ice to keep up with her? Will he follow in his father’s footsteps? Or will he step out from the shadows and chase his dreams?

If you’re pucking obsessed with Helena Hunting, Pippa Grant, and Elle Kennedy, you’ll love this hilarious, hot-as-puck, secret identity, opposites attract, curvy girl sports romance. Two for Interference is a full length standalone with no cheating, cliffhangers, and a guaranteed happily ever after.

Welcome to the Minnesota Snow Pirates, where skilled and sexy mother puckers’ lives get turned upside down by strong and badass heroines. Curl up with your next book boyfriend today.'

What can I say about this book? I mean what words will fully encompass how this book left me feeling. Let's start with the basics. This book tells the story of Cleo and Lincoln over the course of 33 Chapters + Epilogue. It's the first story in Lasairiona's brand new series 'The Minnisota Snow Pirates' and if this book is anything to go by, boy is this going to be a brilliant series. 

Now this isn't the first book I have read by this author. I previously read and reviewed her Jeremy Lewis series ( Book 1, Book 2, Book 3) which I adored but did not prepare me at all for this book. I was utterly captivated by this story the moment I started, and this isn't any normal captivation. This is can't think of anything else, when does the next book come out type of captivating.

So as much as you will fall in love with the main Characters of Cleo and Lincoln, who are completely adorable. One being a book worm and the other being a 'jock' who have share the fact that what they currently do is not their dream. You will fall in love with the background characters of Molly, Russ, Will and Finn to name a few. You will also be able to tell that the author has put just as much effort into creating these characters as they did in creating the main characters. 

One thing I adored about this book is that the main characters did not have the typical meet cute that happens in romances. There's was different, I don't want to give spoilers away but it is perfect for them and interesting for the reader to watch and wait for the moment these two meet face to face. 

Not to mention that when they did meet there were the inevitable steamy scenes, that this reader loves. Now these were written in a way that made the reader anticipate what was to come but without turning into full blown erotica. 

Overall I completely 100% adored this book, I can't wait to read the next one and wish it was November so I can read it now! In the first sitting I read from Chapter 1- 10, and completed in the full book in less than 12 hours. The book completely consumed me and left me with a book hangover, that two days later I still have! At the end of this book the author gave readers a snippet of the next installment and it is going straight on my TBR. Get your copy of this book HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Review: Celebrity SOS by Helen Buckley*

 

'I’m a celebrity ... trying to escape the past!

When Katerina Murphy agrees to take part in Celebrity SOS, a reality TV show where celebrities have to fend for themselves in the Alaskan wilderness, she’s up for the challenge. But then she locks eyes with fellow contestant Finn Drayson of 1Dream boy band fame and realises that the show is going to push her further from her comfort zone than she ever imagined.

After all, Finn wasn’t just Katerina’s co-star in the school play adaptation of Breakfast at Tiffany’s where she discovered her acting confidence, he was also her first love – and the first boy to break her heart. Even years later, the secret kisses and shared packets of crisps on park benches are never far from her mind.

Will award-winning actress Katerina Murphy’s talents stretch to staying composed in the face of Arctic winds and blasts from the past?'

This is the story of Katerina and Finn, and what a story it is. Their story is told over the course of 22 Chapters (+Prologue). It is also the second story in the Spotlight Series by this author. The first book was called 'Strictly on Ice' you can find my review HERE.

From the moment readers begin this book they will be hooked. The prologue sets the book up perfectly leaving readers with questions. The answers of which are slowly told over the course of the book. This prologue also peeks the readers interests. Interest will not only be peeked about Katerina and Finn but also their shared history. 

Throughout the book the point of view clearly switches between the two main characters, this is brilliant for the reader as they really get a fully rounded story. Not only that but they get the full story from both points of view, which as the book goes on its a really great way to learn what they are feeling. 

Another thing to be noted about this book is not only are we in present time but they also go back to the past to help explain the history that these two characters share. This is brilliant and clearly marked when the reader is in the past or present. So not only does the reader get the full 360 story of the present but also the past. This 360 view of the past means that readers get the opportunity to see how everything happened and how things change depending on whose view you are in. 

Overall this book was a brilliant addition to the series, and I was so glad that I have read it. Although it did bring the emotions in and had me reaching for the tissues, it also had me rushing back to it anytime I was interrupted. I can't wait to see where this story goes next, but one thing I know for sure is that I can't wait to get my hand on the next one. You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: Her Honourable Mercenary by Nicole Locke*

 

'An innocent maiden

And a legendary warrior

When captured and held prisoner in an enemy castle, Margery of Lyon is guarded by brooding mercenary Evrart, who’s been commanded to watch her – day and night. Margery’s determination to escape brings her closer to Evrart, and the kind heart hidden beneath his granite-hard body. Now Margery is torn, fleeing under the portcullis will mean leaving behind the man she’s falling for…'

This is the story of Margery and Evrart which is told over the course of 23 chapters. This story is also apart of the Lovers and Legends series. Readers will adore reading this story and following Margery and Evrart.

This story is engaging and interesting from the very beginning, it will hook the readers into the story and not let them go until they have read every word. Whether it is the characters, their story or the descriptions any aspect of this story will draw readers in.

One thing I adored was that the main characters seem to have an air of innocence when they interacted however the chemistry between these two would beg to differ. Now this air of innocence is brilliant and refreshing for a romance novel. 

Now let me tell you about the Author Nicole Locke, who is the author of the Mills & Boon/ Harlequin Lovers and Legends Historical series. When she isn't working on her next book, she can be reached at her Website, Facebook or Twitter!

Overall I adored this book and will be looking at the rest of the series that Nicole has written. One thing I feel like I need to mention to future readers is that this book will bring your emotions forward. So make sure you have some tissues on hand and delve into this book.You can get your copy HERE

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: The Beach Reads Book Club by Kathryn Freeman*

 

'TWO WRITERS, ONE HOLIDAY. A ROMCOM WAITING TO HAPPEN...

January is a hopeless romantic who narrates her life like she's the lead in a blockbuster movie.

Gus is a serious literary type who thinks true love is a fairy-tale.

But January and Gus have more in common than you'd think:

They're both broke.

They've got crippling writer's block.

And they need to write bestsellers before summer ends.

The result? A bet to swap genres and see who gets published first.

The risk? In telling each other's stories, their worlds might be changed entirely...'

This is the latest book in Kathryn's amazing Romcom Collection and is all about Lottie and Matthew. Their story is told over the course of 32 Chapters and is full of moments that readers will love.

This story is witty and engaging, drawing readers in and ensuring they don't leave until they know the full story. Not only that in true romcom fashion it is also full of moments that will leave the reader giggling. All these moments make this book really hard to put down.  

Throughout the book the point of view switches between Matt and Lottie, giving readers a chance to see the story from the both sides. This is brilliant as readers get to see Matt's other side where he is just as vulnerable as Lottie in their growing feelings.

Now let's talk about the Author, Kathryn Freeman is a former Pharmacist, now medical writer who also writes Romance. She can go from a racing heart due to a medical condition to the cause being a hunky hero. She lives with her husband and two teenage boys. Her husband may not be the most  romantic man around valentines day but his unstinting support about her career change proves love isn't just about Hearts and Flowers and heroes come in many disguises. 

Overall I loved this book, Kathryn has written another Romcom that readers will adore. It will make readers fall in love with the story  as well as Kathryn's style. This book will leave readers wanting more. More from Kathryn and hopefully more books in this series.You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: Surprise Reunion with His Cinderella by Rachael Stewart*

 

'One week in paradise…

In this Billion-Dollar Matches story, when Freddie Highgrove arrives in the Seychelles for a week-long ‘date’, via the elite ‘M’ dating agency, he’s stunned to find his match is Jasmine Walker—his first love and ex-fiancée! His high society family’s expectations once sent housekeeper’s daughter Jasmine running. Can one week in paradise bring them back together?'

When I first saw the email for this Publication day push come into my inbox, I just knew I had to be involved. Not only do I adore the style of this Authors writing, but she is fast becoming one of my favorites. I own all her books as a kindle or paperback and have read everything but two of them. No fault of there's I have just not found the time yet but watch this space.

This is Rachael's second book in the category of Mills and Boon True Love and she really does to this category justice. This is the story of Jasmine and Freddie which is told over the course of 15 Chapters (+ Prologue & Epilogue). It is also the second book in the new 4 book series called Billion - Dollar Matches.

From the very start of this book readers will be interested or intrigued and that is just from the prologue. Rachael starts strong in this book really grabbing the readers interest and pulling them in. Getting them interested in how Jasmine and Freddie's story will play out. 

One thing I love about Rachael's books is that she really give great descriptions in those moments leading up to those steamy moments. Now this is a true romance so the steamy scenes are muted slightly because the main focus is the love and romance. However Rachael still builds that anticipation in both her characters and the readers. 

So throughout the book the point of view switches from Jasmine to Freddie and back again. This really gives the reader a full 360 look on their developing situation. However one thing I noticed and loved is that when you are in Freddie's point of view you see more of his vulnerable side. Now I haven't seen this a lot in books, but I really enjoyed this aspect. Usually you only get the in depth vulnerable side for ladies, but in this one you get with Freddie. This vulnerable side makes me love this character even more. 

So let me tell you about the Author Rachael Stewart, she adores conjuring up stories for both Mills & Boon and Deep Desires Press. The books vary from heartwarmingly romantic to wildly erotic. Rachael is living her own dream of being a full time writer, even though her degree was in Business Studies and she spent many years in the corporate world. Originally from Wales, Rachael now lives in Yorkshire with her husband and three children. When she isn't wrapped up in her children, you can find her glued to her laptop or enjoying the great outdoors seeking inspiration. 

Overall I completely adored this book and couldn't put it down, as if I expected anything less. As much as I LOVE Rachael's steamy in her books the less steamy moment in this one does not affect my enjoyment of it in any way. Based on this book alone the other three books in this series are definitely going on my TBR. You can get your copy HERE.

There is also a Giveaway attached to this publication day where you could win a Prize bundle that includes 2 Rachael Stewart paperbacks plus assorted goodies. Those goodies include a Mills & Boon Notebook, Rose Gold Pen, Cute Placemat, Lip Balm, Sweets, Heart post its and Authors Swag. The paperbacks you could win are Tempted by the Tycoon's Proposal and Surprise Reunion with His Cinderella. You can enter the Giveaway HERE. Don't forget to read the Terms and Conditions though: Worldwide entries welcome. Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below. The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then I reserve the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over. Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time I will delete the data. I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

Until Next Time

Emma

XX

Blog Tour: Playing the Duke's Fiancee by Amanda McCabe*

 

'A pretend proposal

For the unconventional heiress

When American heiress Violet Wilkins crosses paths with William, Duke of Charteris, she has extremely low expectations of the “Duke of Bore.” But when this seemingly stuffy aristocrat offers her escape from a dreadful arranged marriage, she leaps at the chance! To her surprise, the arresting Charles whisks Vi into an exhilarating make-believe romance. And as she gets to know the man behind the title, she can’t help wanting more…'

This is the story of Violet and William, which is told over the course of 21 Chapters. The book is full of moments that readers will love. Not only that the characters themselves are well developed but readers will be able to see how much effort the author has put into developing them. 

One thing that really stands out in this book is the descriptions and not just the descriptions of the scenery. Which are outstanding, and to the point that readers will be able to visualize the beautiful places where this book takes place. The Character descriptions are brilliant. They are detailed and readers will be able to visualize them just like a movie that's playing for them. 

Now let me tell you about the Author Amanda McCabe, who wrote her first romance at the tender age of sixteen, it was a vast historical epic starring all her friends as characters. It was written in secret during her algebra class; her parents wondered why math was not her strongest subject. She may have never used algebra since but her books have been nominated for many awards including the RTA Award, the Romantic Times BOOKReviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the Booksellers Best, the National readers Choice Award and the Holt Medallion. She currently lives in Santa Fe with a Poodle, a cat, her wonderful husband and far too many books and royal memorabilia collections. When she is not reading or writing, you can find Amanda taking dance classes, collecting cheesy travel souvenirs and watching the Food Network (even though she doesn't cook). Amanda also writes for Grand Central Publishing as Laurel McKee, the Elizabethan Mystery series as Amanda Carmack and the Manor Cat Mystery Series as Eliza Casey.

Overall this is a well written book full of scenes and moments that readers will gobble up. Better yet this is the second book in the 'Dollar Duchess' Series. Make sure you check out the others in this series, I know they will be added to my TBR. You can get your copy HERE.

Until Next Time

Emma

xx