Books are food for my soul! Pull up a beach chair and stick your toes in the sand as the Jersey surf rolls in and out, now open your book and let your imagination take you away.

Saturday, June 30, 2012

Ties That Bind by Heather Huffman



Ties That Bind by Heather Huffman
Published By: Booktrope Editions
Release Date: September 26, 2011
Formats: Paperback - 224 pages / Kindle - 401 KB / Nook - 722 KB
ISBN: 1935961349
ASIN: B005S19K1G
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women's Fiction / Chick Lit


About The Author: 






Heather Huffman writes romantic suspense with strong female leads who refuse to lose hope. Though her stories never shy from looking into the world's darker corners, they don't dwell there. Heather shares with her resilient heroines a passion to make a difference and so donates a portion of her book royalties to organizations that fight against human trafficking.

Heather was born and spent her childhood in Florida but now calls the beautiful state of Missouri home. Her greatest joy, when not writing, is to hit the road with her three boys for adventures unknown.


AUTHOR WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
GOODREADS
Heather Huffman's Ties That Bind Virtual Book Tour Page on AToMR


BUY THE BOOK: Ties That Bind
AMAZON
BARNES & NOBLE


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by AToMR Book Blog Tours.


* Contest Giveaway *

Ties That Bind Virtual Book Tour Event


1) Tour Stop Contest Prize: Post a comment below to enter to win one of three (3) eBook copies of Ties That Bind by Heather Huffman

2) Grand Prize: Enter to win 1 signed print copy of Ties That Bind and Tumbleweed by Heather Huffman. Clink on the Rafflecopter entry box to enter to win the grand prize!


a Rafflecopter giveaway
Book Description:


Kate Yager never had a father, and she never minded - until her mom died. Now, acting on the name called out on her mother's deathbed, Kate has moved to San Francisco and gotten herself hired by the man she suspects to be her dad. As if a new job, new apartment, and new parent weren't enough, Kate finds herself head-over-heels in lust with a complete stranger she met at an art show. A stranger who, she later finds out, happens to work in her office.

As her relationships with her friends and father grow stronger, Kate has to confront the decisions of her past to find out whether she can love the man who gave her up, love the man who loves her truly, and even whether she can love herself.


Book Excerpt:

"I have a few ideas for how to spend the day."

"Is that so?" She narrowed her eyes, unsure if she trusted his ideas.

"Come on, you're going to love it."

"Somehow I doubt that."

"Spoil sport."

"Flip nut."

"What?" He paused, unsure if he'd heard her correctly.

"Flip nut?" She repeated.

"I'm telling myself that's an American term of endearment."

"That's exactly what it is." She patted his shoulder patronizingly.

"We're here." He stopped abruptly as the road ended.

"Why are we at the pier?" She eyed him nervously.

"Well, I know we were supposed to start with things having to do with the launch party, but you've come so far on that already. It wouldn't hurt to get started on the next issue ..."

"What are you talking about?"

"Okay, okay, you caught me. This just looks fun."

"What looks fun?"

"Kayaking." He dazzled her with his smile. "Come on. But you have to promise not to tip; I have my camera with me."

"No way." Kate dug her heels in and shook her head firmly. "Absolutely not."

"Are you scared?"

"This isn't third grade," she reminded him for a second time that morning. 


"Seriously, I understand if this kind of thing is just way too spontaneous for you. I get it." 


"What do you get?" 


"You don't brush your teeth without scheduling it on your Blackberry, do you? What about showers?" 


"I am perfectly capable of tending to personal hygiene without the assistance of my handheld." 


"So, where's the line?" 


"What line?" 


"We've established you can be spontaneously hygienic, but you won't get on a boat without proper notice, even if it's part of your job. I'm just wondering where the line is." 


"This isn't for work." 


"Sure it is." He'd moved even closer to Kate; his nearness was driving her to distraction. 


"No it's not. It's for your own sadistic enjoyment. Nice try," Kate could feel her face heating up. 


"You're right; should we call Jack and ask his opinion?" The look he gave her was pure innocence. The one she bathed him with was something else entirely - more like loathing. She toyed with the mental image of using one of her heels as a weapon. 


"That's fighting dirty," she muttered. 


"True," he agreed, pulling his phone out of his pocket. 


"Really dirty." She folded her arms across her chest. 


"Yep." He began to dial the phone. 


"Fine." She heaved a sigh and stalked him. "Let's get this over with." 


"Daddy's little girl." He triumphantly pocketed his phone. 


"Excuse me?" She stopped dead in her tracks and turned to face him. 


"Oh come on, it's pretty obvious you want to please Daddy. I get it with the last names - don't want to show nepotism and all that." He strolled towards the door. 


"What makes you think Jack Cooper is my father?" She moved to catch up with him. "Please tell me you haven't told anyone that." 


"Sorry." He seemed taken aback by her distress. "The mannerisms, the eyes ... I just assumed it was common knowledge everyone pretended they didn't have." 


Kate sank onto a nearby bench, leaning forward and sucking in great big gulps of air. So this was what a panic attack felt like. Did Jack know? Jessica? Liz? Were they all playing her stupid little game out of kindness? Tara? Tara couldn't know. 


Gavin stood in front of her, as if unsure how best to proceed. He finally settled on sitting quietly next to her and rubbing her back gently. The light touch was enough to reignite the electric currents in her veins. Maybe not his intended response, but it diverted her mind from its crazy ramblings nonetheless.


My Book Review:


Kate Yager is a thirty-two year old event planner, who grew up never knowing who her father was. Her mom Danielle had been diagnosed with cancer, and on her deathbed she whispered the name Jack Collins. Determined to find out if this man was her father, she moved to San Francisco and took a position in his magazine the San Franciscan, in order to learn more about him. What she didn't plan on was becoming attracted to a younger man, handsome twenty-five year old British photographer, Gavin Nichols, who also joined the magazine's staff. With years of emotional baggage and walls built around her heart, Kate kept Gavin at arms length, yet she yearned to let go and let him into her heart. Gavin guesses that Kate resembles Jack, and offers to help her search the relationship between Jack and Danielle, in the hope of proving that he is in fact her biological father. Will Kate be able to let go of her emotional baggage? Will Kate let down her wall and give Gavin a chance? Will Kate find out the answer to who her father is, could it be Jack? And if Jack is her father, will he accept Kate as his daughter?

Ties That Bind is an enjoyable lighthearted romance story. The storyline is well written and easy for the reader to relate to. The author does a wonderful job of exploring Kate's emotional past, her insecurities and her growth through the relationships she forms with Gavin, Jack, Jack's fiancee Tara, and her co-workers Jessica and Liz. Written with a light touch , a sense of humor, and filled with quirky dialogue among the characters, especially Kate and Gavin, the reader will embrace this fast-paced story, it has a nice balance of romance and some dramatic twists and turns.

The author creates a cast of characters that are realistic, down-to-earth people that the reader can embrace and relate to. I found that Kate's complexity and Gavin's easy-going nature to be fascinating, especially as I watched how their relationship developed. I couldn't help but love Gavin, he's a "dream man": easy-going, caring, understanding, thoughtful ... the whole package! I really enjoyed the youthful, fun-loving, and spirited Jessica and Liz, master matchmakers extraordinaire! Finally, I was intrigued by the relationship between Kate and Jack, I loved how the story kept me guessing on how their relationship would turn out.

Ties That Bind is a fun, flirty, quick read that will keep true romance fans entertained.


RATING: 4 STARS ****





Friday, June 29, 2012

Virtual Book Tour Events: Week of 7/1-7/12




Virtual Book Tour Events: Week of 7/1-7/12



In association with Innovative Online Book Tours, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host the following virtual book tour event:


Murder on Spyglass Lane by J.M. Griffin




Monday, July 2, 2012 ~ Author Bio, Book Excerpt and Book Review


Book Description: Murder on Spyglass Lane


Artist Sarah McDougall flees from New England to Florida's west coast thinking she can escape her unwanted psychic abilities. When she finds a dead body buried under the sand trap on the thirteen hole of the golf course behind her home, Sarah realizes she was mistaken. She is stuck with an ability that will nearly be her undoing. Unable to shake the sick feeling in the pit of her stomach, Sarah turns to her neighbor Raven DeVille, a swashbuckling pirate-like handsome man, for help, only to find he has secrets of his own. The duo investigates the murder with surprising twists that place Sarah in harms way more often than she ever thought possible. 







******



Jersey Girl Book Reviews Virtual Book Tour Events is pleased to host the following virtual book event:



The Shekinah Legacy by Gary Lindberg




Friday-Saturday, July 6-7, 2012 ~ Author Guest Post, Author Interview and Book Review


Book Description: The Shekinah Legacy


In this controversial Amazon best-selling thriller, international cable TV journalist Charlotte Ansari and her Asperger's son are caught literally in the crossfire of history when terrorists, the CIA, Mossad and the Vatican all converge in a pulse-pounding search for relics that could forever change the balance of power in the world.

Three decades ago, Charlotte's mother suddenly vanished with no trace. The mystery was never solved. Then suddenly, on the same day that Charlotte's home is attacked by terrorists, her son receives an email from the grandmother that he has never known. The coded message catapults Charlotte and her son on a dangerous mission to India and Kashmir to find the only objects that can save the old woman's life. Unfortunately, Charlotte and her autistic son don't know what they are looking for.

The Shekinah Legacy is a thriller in the tradition of Dan Brown, Steve Berry and James Rollins. In this provocative novel, author Gary Lindberg uses the form of the thriller to explore the limits and perils of belief.




Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Author Guest Post: Patricia Yager Delagrange, Author of Moon Over Alcatraz

In association with Goddess Fish Promotions, Jersey Girl Book Reviews welcomes Patricia Yager Delagrange, author of Moon Over Alcatraz!





Where Do My Ideas Come From?


My first book Passing Through Brandiss is about a young woman, Annie Davidson, whose husband is killed and she is left with her young son Rafe in a house where they are surrounded by all the memories of the three of them as a family. She decides to move, sells the house, stores their belongings, and drives away, leaving Sausalito, California, behind. 

She takes the Pacific Coast Highway and heads south until she and her son stumble upon the small town of Brandiss where they find a beautiful Craftsman house for sale. They decide to make Brandiss their home. There she meets and befriends a pregnant teenager who wants Annie to adopt her baby. 

I wanted to tell a story about adoption. After I gave birth to my son Dylan we wanted to have another child but alas, it was not meant to be. We had never considered adoption, but when I found out I was already peri-menopausal and in vitro was too expensive, my husband and I made the decision to look into adoption. 

We hired an attorney who only dealt with open adoptions and within six months one of the mothers saw our brochure, asked to meet us, and chose us as the people she wanted to adopt her child. The adoption progressed without any complications whatsoever. In fact, the birth mother Kim decided to waive the nine-month waiting period during which time she could change her mind. And Allessandra became legally our child sooner than expected. 

I took "literary license" and changed the story. In Passing Through Brandiss Annie's adoption does not proceed easily. Why did I do this? Because I wanted to write about the fears I'd never expressed to anyone. After we took Allessandra home from the hospital when she was less than twenty-four hours old, I was afraid during the following nine months that Kim would change her mind.

In my second book, Moon Over Alcatraz, which was published in January of this year, I explore the issue of the death of a child and how that can affect a couple's marriage. That idea came from watching so many news broadcasts and Amber Alerts about children who are taken from their parents and many times are murdered. I had always wondered how parents survive the loss of a child. So I decided to explore that loss in Moon Over Alcatraz. Granted, such a tragedy has never befallen me or my family, but I am a mother. Therefore, I know what it is to love a child unconditionally, to be willing to die for them if it were necessary. 

Warning! Moon Over Alcatraz has a happy ending.

I believe that attitude is everything. In Moon Over Alcatraz Brandy loses her child and struggles with depression afterward. But she's a strong woman, an author, who struggles through that difficult time and comes through it to attain her Happily Ever After. 

Ideas come from anywhere and everywhere. A germ of an idea can pop into my head and if it has the potential to make me "feel" a ton of emotions, then usually I can write a story about it. And hopefully readers will feel emotions when they read it. 


About The Author:

Patricia Yager Delgrange was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She attended St. Mary's College, studied her junior year at the University of Madrid, and received her B.A. in Spanish at UC Santa Barbara, then went on to get her Master's degree in Education at Oregon State University. She live with her husband and two teenage children in Alameda, across the bay from San Francisco, along with our two very large chocolate labs, Annabella and her son Jack. Her horse lives in the Oakland hills in a stall with a million dollar view. 






BUY THE BOOK: Moon Over Alcatraz


Book Description: Moon Over Alcatraz


Following the death of their baby during a difficult birth, Brandy and Weston Chambers are grief-stricken and withdraw from each other, both seeking solace outside of their marriage; however, they vow to work through their painful disloyalty. But when the man Brandy slept with moves back to their hometown, three lives are forever changed by his return.


Book Excerpt: Moon Over Alcatraz


"What are you doing? Where are you going? Please, let's talk about this."

"I work my ass off in New York while you're at home screwing other dudes?"

I pulled the sheet around me, ran over and grabbed his arm. "I wasn't screwing other dudes." He ripped his arm out of my grasp. "I was the one who was all screwed up. Then you went to New York and all we ever did was argue on the phone. You don't tell your secretary you're married and she treats me like crap on the phone ..."

By now, he was fully dressed, shoes and jacket on, wallet grabbed off the bureau. His hand hovered above the door knob. His face looked void of emotion, wiped clean of all expression. "I can't do this," he mumbled.

I sobbed, knowing I'd hurt him and betrayed his trust. I felt like a slut. "I'm sorry. I made a mistake. But I love you."

He stood near the door, shaking his head, tears dripping from his chin.

My legs shook. My stomach cramped. I had to make him understand. "I know I've hurt you and that wasn't my intention, but I wasn't thinking straight. I'll regret it forever. You don't deserve this but I'm asking you to forgive me."

His eyes swam with tears and his chin quivered. His Adam's apple twitched up and down as he swallowed. "I had sex with Carol Smith."



* Contest Giveaway* 

Moon Over Alcatraz Contest Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card


Author Patricia Yager Delagrange will award a $25 Amazon Gift card to one randomly drawn commenter during the Moon Over Alcatraz virtual book tour. Follow the tour stops and comment on each tour stop for additional chances of winning! 

Click on the tour page link for a list of all the tour stops: Moon Over Alcatraz Virtual Book Tour Event Page








Moon Over Alcatraz by Patricia Yager Delagrange



Moon Over Alcatraz by Patricia Yager Delgrange
Published By: Musa Publishing
Release Date: January 5, 2012
Format: eBook - 295 pages / Kindle - 793 KB
ASIN: B006UJEE3E
Genre: Contemporary Romance Fiction, Women's Fiction


About The Author:





Patricia Yager Delgrange was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She attended St. Mary's College, studied her junior year at the University of Madrid, and received her B.A. in Spanish at UC Santa Barbara, then went on to get her Master's degree in Education at Oregon State University. She live with her husband and two teenage children in Alameda, across the bay from San Francisco, along with our two very large chocolate labs, Annabella and her son Jack. Her horse lives in the Oakland hills in a stall with a million dollar view. 




BUY THE BOOK: Moon Over Alcatraz


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event.

Virtual Book Tour Event: On Wednesday, June 27, 2012, in association with Goddess Fish Promotions, author Patricia Yager Delagrange participated in a virtual book tour event with an Author Guest Post on Jersey Girl Book Reviews.

* Contest Giveaway* 

Moon Over Alcatraz Contest Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card


Author Patricia Yager Delagrange will award a $25 Amazon Gift card to one randomly drawn commenter during the Moon Over Alcatraz virtual book tour. Follow the tour stops and comment on each tour stop for additional chances of winning! 

Click on the tour page link for a list of all the tour stops: Moon Over Alcatraz Virtual Book Tour Event Page


Book Description: 

Following the death of their baby during a difficult birth, Brandy and Weston Chambers are grief-stricken and withdraw from each other, both seeking solace outside of their marriage; however, they vow to work through their painful disloyalty. But when the man Brandy slept with moves back to their hometown, three lives are forever changed by his return.


Book Excerpt:

Three days later we were standing at the edge of a hole in the ground at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery in Hayward, the silence so thick, the insides of my ears buzzed like a distant swarm of angry bees. Mr. Peralta and another gentleman stood off to the side while Weston and I held hands next to a tiny casket.

Weston had chosen a simple mahogany box with gold handles, a bouquet of white lilies graced the top of the small box. I knelt down and laid a kiss on the smooth wood then wiped off the tears that had fallen on top. Weston joined me, placing a single red rose in the middle of the lilies.

He helped me up and we stood side-by-side in silence, my guilt over her death like a stone in my empty belly. I missed everything I'd dreamed would be happening right now, yearned for all that could have been.

Weston nodded at the man standing next to Mr. Peralta and our baby was slowly lowered into the gaping maw. She reached the bottom, and a bird landed on the rich brown dirt piled next to the grave. It pecked around, chirping a little song then flew off - as if saying goodbye. My heart squeezed inside my chest.

I picked up a small handful of soft dirt. "Goodbye, Christine," I whispered, throwing it on top of her casket.

Weston wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me in close to his side. Why her? Why my baby? Was this supposed to make sense? And, if so, to whom?

We drove home in silence. No words existed to express my grief.

My Book Review:

Brandy and Weston Chambers' world is turned upside down when their baby girl is three weeks early and dies during childbirth. Both of them were struggling and grieving the loss of their daughter, but Brandy felt an overwhelming guilt that it was her fault that their little girl died, and she pushed Weston away unable to accept the solace that he wanted to provide her. Feeling rejected, Weston accepts an out-of-town bridge building project in New York City that would take him away until the new year. Left behind in their Alameda, California home, Brandy tries to deal with her deepening depression, but with tensions running high between them, Brandy's chance meeting with an old high school buddy leads to a one-night stand that will result in serious consequences in her marriage. Will Brandy and Weston be able to put their marriage back together? Will Brandy's one-night stand with Edward Barnes come back to haunt her? There is one thing for sure ... three lives will be forever changed from the chain of actions that arose from the tragedy that started it all.

Moon Over Alcatraz is a heart wrenching story of love, loss, betrayal, recovery, redemption and moving forward. This hauntingly poignant story is narrated in the first person perspective of Brandy Chambers, who takes the reader along on her bittersweet journey of recovering from a tragedy that resulted in her making some very unexpected changes as she tries to move forward with her life. The story draws the reader into the lives of Brandy, Weston and Edward, and you can't help but feel the full range of emotions as the story unfolds.

The author creates a cast of characters that are realistic people with issues that occur in their lives that the reader can easily relate to. You'll feel your heart strings being pulled as Brandy, Weston and Edward learn to deal with the results from their actions and situations that they put themselves in, and their flaws, interactions and life changing choices make this story that much more powerful and compelling.

The author weaves a story rich in detail and emotion, it deals with realistic situations and issues that occur in everyday life. This is a story that masterfully intertwines issues that occur in real relationships: love, loss, betrayal, recovery, redemption, closure and moving forward.

Moon Over Alcatraz is an emotional story that is so much more than the usual contemporary romance novel. This is a story that will captivate you and pull at your heart strings, it will make you ponder about the complexity in relationships, and it will leave you emotionally spent but fulfilled with its wonderful ending.


RATING: 5 STARS *****










Monday, June 25, 2012

Author Interview: Marie Astor, Author of This Tangled Thing Called Love

Jersey Girl Book Reviews welcomes back Marie Astor, author of This Tangled Thing Called Love!




Welcome back to Jersey Girl Book Reviews Marie!


How long have you been a writer?

I have always dreamed of being a writer, but I started writing seriously three years ago. Since then I have written three contemporary romances: This Tangled Thing Called Love, On The Rim of Love, Lucky Charm, and a collection of short stories, A Dress in a Window.


Do you have a "day job," or is being an author your career?

Yes, I do have a day job in technical writing.


What inspired you to become a writer?

I can't really think of a specific incident or impulse that prompted me to start writing. I have always loved reading and thought of writing as something that I wanted to do, but was too intimidated to commit the actual pen to paper (or fingers to the keyboard to be more precise). And then, one day, after I turned thirty, I sat down and started writing, thinking that if I did not start then, I probably never would. 


Please give a brief description/storyline about This Tangled Thing Called Love.

Claire Chatfield has everything a girl could possibly wish for: looks, a promising career, and an engagement ring from one of New York's most eligible heir-bachelors! Life should be a dream and yet, it does not feel like one ... When an enigmatic new neighbor, Alec Brunell, moves into an apartment above Claire's, Claire is surprised to find herself wondering whether the choices she has made in her life are worth following through.


In order to secure his place as his father's successor, David Lawson must settle down with a wife befitting the future head of Lawson Enterprises - and who could fit the prerequisite better than the stunningly beautiful and incredibly bright Claire Chatfield? There is just one glitch - David Lawson is in love with another woman.


A successful tango instructor, Alec Brunnel, has never lacked for women's attention, but he finds himself at a loss when faced with his downstairs neighbor, Claire Chatfield. Upon hearing of his occupation, most women swoon with desire, but Claire runs for the door. Still, her iciness only adds fuel to his fire, as Alec is determined to change Claire's view of him. 


This Tangled Thing Called Love is about finding one's perfect match - sometimes following one's heart is as convoluted as learning the steps of tango. 


What was the inspiration for this story?

I think that finding that perfect someone plays such a big role in women's lives. I wanted to write a story about what it takes to follow one's heart - the courage it requires and the hurt and the loss that results from taking the easy way out.


How did it feel to have your first book published?

It felt wonderful! I am so thankful to Amazon for putting out the Kindle platform and making it available to self-published authors.


What genres are your favorites? What are some of your favorite books that you have read and why?

I read all kinds of genres - some of my favorites are: romance (of course!), family saga, women's fiction, and literary fiction.


Some of my favorite books are:


Empire Falls by Richard Russo - I fell in love with the sweeping descriptions and keen character development.


Baker Towers by Jennifer Haigh - this book is simply incredible.


Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen - I loved the enchanting imagery of the story.


Do you have a special "spot/area" where you like to do your writing?

My favorite place to write is behind my desk at home - that's where I'm most focused and productive. But I also love grabbing my laptop and heading out to the neighborhood park and writing under a tree.


How do you come up with the ideas that become the storyline for your books?

It varies from book to book.


For Lucky Charm friendship was the inspiration - I wanted to write a story about two best friends helping each other navigate the world of dating.


For On the Rim of Love location became the inspiration. Two winters ago I visited Banff, British Columbia and thought that it would be the perfect setting for a romance about a city girl and a big-mountain skier who is rooted in his small hometown.


For This Tangled Thing Called Love tango was the initial inspiration - this sensual dance is so beautiful, but it can also be incredibly intimidating to master, just like finding the road to one's true match.


From concept to publication, about how long does it take for you to complete writing a book and have it released?

It takes me about a year to write a book.


When you write, do you adhere to a strict work schedule, or do you write whenever the inspiration strikes?

I try my best to adhere to a schedule, but unfortunately sometimes life gets in the way. I found that it's okay to take a break - sometimes you need to distance yourself from the process for a few days or weeks in order to return with renewed strength.


What aspects of storytelling do you like the best, and what aspects do you struggle with the most?

I enjoy all aspects of storytelling, but character development is my favorite part - I love inventing new characters and making them come to life on the page.


What are your favorite things to do when you are not writing?

I love to read. I am also something of an outdoors junkie - in the summer I love hiking and just being outside. In the winter I love to ski (when I get the chance) or simply walk in the snow.


What is/was the best piece of writing advice that you have received?

Keep honing your craft.


What is the most gratifying thing you feel or get as a writer?

Hearing from readers that they have enjoyed my book - the best gift a writer could ever receive.


How do you usually communicate with your readers/fans?

My readers can reach me through the contact page on my website: http://www.marieastor.com/ or by emailing me at marie.astor@yahoo.com - I respond to all the emails myself. You can also stop by my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/marieastorcollection or visit me at Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4665230.Marie_Astor or Twitter: www.twitter.com/@marieastor. I hope to hear from you soon!


Are you currently writing a new book? If yes, would you care to share a bit of it with us?

I am - thank you for asking!


Currently I am working on my next book - it is a romantic suspense novel, which may evolve into a  series (I'm still debating this possibility). I should have more information by mid-summer. Please stop by my website at: http://www.marieastor.com/ or visit my Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/marieastorcollection for updates.


Kathleen, thank you so much for inviting me to your blog today and giving me the opportunity to talk about my writing. I hope that readers of your blog have enjoyed hearing about my latest novel, This Tangled Thing Called Love.




Thank you Marie for allowing me the opportunity to interview you on Jersey Girl Book Reviews, and for taking the time to share some things about you and your writing career with us!


About The Author:


Marie Astor is a die-hard romantic who wholeheartedly believes in true love, which is why she writes in the contemporary romance genre. Marie is the author of contemporary romance novels This Tangled Thing Called Love, Lucky Charm, On the Rim of Love, and a short story collection, A Dress in a Window.


AUTHOR WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
GOODREADS





BUY THE BOOK: This Tangled Thing Called Love
AMAZON


OTHER BOOKS BY MARIE ASTOR:


Lucky Charm
AMAZON


On the Rim of Love
AMAZON






A Dress in a Window
AMAZON




Book Description: This Tangled Thing Called Love

Claire Chatfield has everything a girl could possibly wish for: looks, a promising career, and an engagement ring from one of New York's most eligible heir-bachelors! Life should be a dream and yet, it does not feel like one ... When an enigmatic new neighbor, Alec Brunell, moves into an apartment above from Claire's, Claire is surprised to find herself wondering whether the choices she has made in her life are worth following through.

In order to secure his place as his father's successor, David Lawson must settle down with a wife befitting the future head of Lawson Enterprises - and who could fit the prerequisite better than the stunningly beautiful and incredibly bright Claire Chatfield? There is just one glitch - David Lawson is in love with another woman.

Alec Brunell has never lacked for women's attention, but he finds himself at a loss when faced with his downstairs neighbor, Claire Chatfield. Still, her iciness only adds fuel to his fire, as Alec is determined to change Claire's view of him.

This Tangled Thing Called Love is about finding one's perfect match and learning to follow one's heart.


* Contest Giveaway *

This Tangled Thing Called Love Necklace Contest Giveaway

Lapis and Labradorite Necklace with Sterling Silver Flower Clasp




Contest Dates: June 25 - July 9


One (1) lucky winner will be chosen to win this beautiful necklace given by author Marie Astor. Enter to win the necklace by clicking on the Rafflecopter contest link.

Additional points (entries) will be given for posting a comment on the contest giveaway post, and by following Marie on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

We will be using Rafflecopter to select the winner. The winner will be notified by author Marie Astor.

Contest is only open in the Continental US.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This Tangled Thing Called Love by Marie Astor




This Tangled Thing Called Love by Marie Astor
Published By: Amazon Digital Services
Release Date: February 12, 2012
Format: Kindle 439 KB / 254 pages
ASIN: B0078IPNCW
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women's Fiction / Chick Lit


About The Author:





Marie Astor is a die-hard romantic who wholeheartedly believes in true love, which is why she writes in the contemporary romance genre. Marie is the author of contemporary romance novels This Tangled Thing Called LoveLucky CharmOn the Rim of Love, and a short story collection, A Dress in a Window.



AUTHOR WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
GOODREADS


BUY THE BOOK: This Tangled Thing Called Love
AMAZON




Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review, and for hosting a virtual book event on my book review blog site.

Virtual Book Event: On Monday, June 25, 2012 author Marie Astor participated in a virtual book event with an Author Interview on Jersey Girl Book Reviews.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/06/author-interview-marie-astor-author-of.html


* Contest Giveaway *

This Tangled Thing Called Love Necklace Contest Giveaway

Lapis and Labradorite Necklace with Sterling Silver Flower Clasp




Contest Dates: June 25 - July 9


One (1) lucky winner will be chosen to win this beautiful necklace given by author Marie Astor. Enter to win the necklace by clicking on the Rafflecopter contest link.

Additional points (entries) will be given for posting a comment on the contest giveaway post, and by following Marie on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

We will be using Rafflecopter to select the winner. The winner will be notified by author Marie Astor.

Contest is only open in the Continental US.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Book Description: 

Claire Chatfield has everything a girl could possibly wish for: looks, a promising career, and an engagement ring from one of New York's most eligible heir-bachelors! Life should be a dream and yet, it does not feel like one ... When an enigmatic new neighbor, Alec Brunell, moves into an apartment above from Claire's, Claire is surprised to find herself wondering whether the choices she has made in her life are worth following through.

In order to secure his place as his father's successor, David Lawson must settle down with a wife befitting the future head of Lawson Enterprises - and who could fit the prerequisite better than the stunningly beautiful and incredibly bright Claire Chatfield? There is just one glitch - David Lawson is in love with another woman.

Alec Brunell has never lacked for women's attention, but he finds himself at a loss when faced with his downstairs neighbor, Claire Chatfield. Still, her iciness only adds fuel to his fire, as Alec is determined to change Claire's view of him.

This Tangled Thing Called Love is about finding one's perfect match and learning to follow one's heart.


My Book Review:

Claire Chatfield is engaged to the man of her dreams, or so she thought ... is she really in love with her fiance David Lawson ... or is she playing it safe instead of following her heart?

This Tangled Thing Called Love is a fun and sassy novel that raises the timeless question of when making choices about love relationships, do you play it safe and follow your head, or do you throw caution to the wind and follow your heart? Ah ... love is a many splendored tangled thing ....

The story is set in New York City and follows the perspectives of four characters: Claire Chatfield, David Lawson, Alec Brunell and Claudia Block. Claire and David are in a relationship, but they haven't been spending as much time together as they used to. Claire starts to question her relationship with David, and she finds herself becoming attracted to her sexy new upstairs neighbor, dance instructor Alec Brunell. Alec is attracted to Claire from the time he met her, he knows that he wants Claire, and he's willing to wait for her. Claudia Block is an aging Hollywood starlet who is David's true love, but his future in the family business deems this relationship unacceptable, and requires him to choose a more suitable wife. What is the right choice for Claire, David, Alec and Claudia? The author does a wonderful job of intertwining these four people's stories into a fascinating tale of their struggle to find love and decide what relationship choice is the right one for each of them.

The author creates a cast of characters that are realistic, strong, complex and engaging. These are characters that the reader can relate to: they are not perfect, they have flaws, they question the choices they make in life and relationships, and they try to live their lives just like we do! I found that this is a fascinating look at how four people go through the motions of deciding what path to follow in love relationships, they each had to deal with a timeless question that everyone has pondered at one time or another.

I think the story engages the reader in a witty and entertaining manner. Who hasn't ever questioned their choices in life and in relationships? Sometimes you have to endure some self-questioning and make wrong choices before attaining your true hearts desire ... and sometimes you have to go let go of the safe options, go out on a limb and just follow your heart when seeking true love and happiness. That is what life's all about!

This Tangled Thing Called Love is an entertaining romance novel that will embrace and engage you in it's dialogue about how people weave their way through the tangled maze of choices in life and love!


RATING: 4 STARS ****














A Tangled Thing Called Love Necklace Contest Giveaway

In association with author Marie Astor, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host A Tangled Thing Called Love Necklace Contest Giveaway!


Author Marie Astor





* Contest Giveaway *

This Tangled Thing Called Love Necklace Contest Giveaway

Lapis and Labradorite Necklace with Sterling Silver Flower Clasp




Contest Dates: June 25 - July 9

One (1) lucky winner will be chosen to win this beautiful necklace given by author Marie Astor.

Enter to win the necklace by clicking on the contest link:.

Additional points (entries) will be given for posting a comment on the contest giveaway post, and by following Marie on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads.

We will be using Rafflecopter to select the winner. The winner will be notified by author Marie Astor.

Contest is only open in the Continental US.
a Rafflecopter giveaway












Jersey Girl Book Reviews would like to thank author Marie Astor for the opportunity to host this necklace contest giveaway!


Disclaimer:

Jersey Girl Book Reviews reserves the right to determine when and how all contest giveaways will be conducted. 

Contest Giveaways in the book format are copies that are supplied and shipped to the winners via the author, publisher, and/or publicist. Any additional items in the contest giveaway are also shipped to the winners by the author or their designee. This blog site hosts the contest giveaways on behalf of the authors and/or their designee. 

This blog site owner is not responsible for lost or damaged books or other items that are sent by the parties mentioned above. 

The blog site owner reserves the right to disqualify and/or delete any entries in a contest giveaway, if the rules of the contest giveaway are not followed.

This blog site utilizes Random.org number generator to select the winner(s) of each contest giveaway.

This Policy is in effect as of September 1, 2011.




Saturday, June 23, 2012

Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate



Hope Springs by Kim Cash Tate
Published By: Thomas Nelson, Inc.
Release Date: June 12, 2012
Format: Paperback - 336 pages / Kindle - 572 KB / Nook - 768 KB
ISBN: 1595549978
ASIN: B0078FA7Z8
Genre: Christian Fiction / Contemporary Romance


About The Author: 




Kim Cash Tate is the author of Cherished, Faithful, Heavenly Places and the memoir More Christian than African American. A former practicing attorney, she is also the founder of Colored in Christ Ministries. She and her husband have two children.


AUTHOR WEBSITE
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
GOODREADS
Kim Cash Tate's Hope Springs Virtual Book Tour Page On Litfuse Publicity Group


BUY THE BOOK: Hope Springs
AMAZON
BARNES & NOBLE


Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Litfuse Publicity Group.


Virtual Book Tour Event on Litfuse Publicity Group:


Follow along the tour stops on the Hope Springs virtual book tour: Hope Springs Virtual Book Tour Page on Litfuse Publicity Group



Author Chat Facebook Party on July 10th:


Win a Kindle Fire at Kim Cash Tate's Hope Springs during her Author Chat Facebook Party on 7/10! 


Celebrate the release of Hope Springs with author Kim Cash Tate by coming to her Author Chat Facebook Party on July 10th at 8pm EST (7pm Central, 6pm MST, 5pm PST).

During the evening Kim will be sharing the story behind her new book, posting book club questions, testing your trivia skills, and of course, there will be plenty of chatting and fun giveaways - books, gift certificates and a Kindle Fire!

But, wait there's more - she'll also be giving you a sneak peak of her next book too!

RSVP Today! Click On Link To RSVP: Kim Cash Tate Author Chat Facebook Party on 7/10!



Book Description:

In a small community where everyone is holding tight to something, the biggest challenge may be learning to let go.

Hope Springs, NC is the epitome of small town life - a place filled with quiet streets where families have been friends for generations, a place where there's not a lot changes .. until now ... three women suddenly find themselves planted there for a reason.

Janelle Evans hasn't gone back to Hope Springs for family reunions since losing her husband. But when she arrives for Christmas and learns that her grandmother is gravely ill, she decides to extend the stay. It isn't long before she runs into her first love, and feelings that have been dormant for more than a decade are reawakened.

Becca Anderson is finally on the trajectory she's longed for. Having been in the ministry trenches for years, she's recruited as the newest speaker of a large Christian women's conference. But her husband feels called to become the pastor of his late father's church in Hope Springs. Will small-town living affect her big ministry dreams?

Stephanie has the ideal life - married to a doctor in St. Louis with absolutely nothing she has to do. When her cousin Janelle volunteers to stay in Hope Springs and care for their grandmother, she feels strangely compelled to do the same. It's a decision that will forever change her.

As these women come together, they soon recognize that healing is needed in their hearts, their families, and their churches. God's plan for them in Hope Springs is bigger than they ever imagined.


My Book Review:


The Lord works in mysterious ways and always has a plan for everyone ... for three women, God's plan will lead them back to their hometown and change their lives forever.

Hope Springs is an uplifting inspirational story about three women who each find themselves at a crossroads in their lives. For Janelle, Becca and Stephanie, a family illness and funeral has the three women making the trip back to their small southern hometown of Hope Springs, NC over the Christmas holidays. Their stay in Hope Springs will send them on an emotional journey of prayer and self-discovery as they each learn to confront their individual issues, and rebuild their lives through the grace of prayer, faith, family, and community.

Set in the the small southern town of Hope Springs, NC, the author weaves a story told in the third person featuring the perspectives of the three women in alternating chapters. The alternating chapters flow smoothly from one perspective to another, creating an interwoven story that captivates the reader and easily transports them into the Sanders and Dixon families' lives in Hope Springs.

The author creates a cast of characters that are strong, down-to-earth, fun-loving and spiritual people who deal with very real issues in life that the reader can relate to. Dealing with such issues as: cancer, death, infidelity, trust, lack of faith, family, friends, community and race ... with their many strengths and flaws, the characters deal with the issues in an inspirational and realistic way that makes their story that much more powerful and compelling. There are a lot of characters that are introduced throughout the story, but I don't think that they hindered, distracted or took away from the basic premise of the storyline, rather they all contributed to the strong community bond that is felt throughout the story.

I really liked how the author balanced the story with a little light romance, the romantic subplots were light and flirty, and I enjoyed watching how the relationships developed. This was a very enjoyable story, it captivated me as I embraced the characters' lives and shared in their triumphs and tragedies. This is one story where the full range of your emotions will be felt, it will make you laugh, smile, cry and sigh.

Hope Springs is a poignant and touching story about family, faith and community ... it is a story that provides an uplifting message that through the power of faith, prayer, and love, a person can survive life's issues with grace and dignity.


RATING: 4 STARS ****


















Friday, June 22, 2012

Virtual Book Tour Events: Week of 6/24-30/12



Virtual Book Tour Event: Week of 6/24-30/12



Jersey Girl Book Reviews Virtual Book Tour Events is pleased to host the following virtual book event:



This Tangled Thing Called Love by Marie Astor




Monday, June 25, 2012 ~ Author Interview, Book Review and Contest Giveaway


Book Description: This Tangled Thing Called Love


Claire Chatfield has everything a girl could possibly wish for: looks, a promising career, and an engagement ring from one of New York's most eligible heir-bachelors! Life should be a dream and yet, it does not feel like one ... When an enigmatic new neighbor, Alec Brunell, moves into an apartment above from Claire's, Claire is surprised to find herself wondering whether the choices she has made in her life are worth following through.

In order to secure his place as his father's successor, David Lawson must settle down with a wife befitting the future head of Lawson Enterprises - and who could fit the prerequisite better than the stunningly beautiful and incredibly bright Claire Chatfield? There is just one glitch - David Lawson is in love with another woman.

Alec Brunell has never lacked for women's attention, but he finds himself at a loss when faced with his downstairs neighbor, Claire Chatfield. Still, her iciness only adds fuel to his fire, as Alec is determined to change Claire's view of him.

This Tangled Thing Called Love is about finding one's perfect match and learning to follow one's heart.




* Contest Giveaway* 


This Tangled Thing Called Love Contest Giveaway: 

Lapis and Labradorite Necklace with Sterling Silver Flower Clasp




Contest Dates: June 25 - July 9 


One (1) lucky winner will be chosen to win this beautiful necklace given by author Marie Astor. Enter to win the necklace via the rafflecopter entry box. Additional points (entries) will be given for posting a comment on the contest giveaway post, and by following Marie on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads. Contest will be open only in the Continental US.




******



In association with Goddess Fish Promotions, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host the following virtual book tour event:


Moon Over Alcatraz by Patricia Yager Delagrange




Wednesday, June 27, 2012 ~ Author Guest Post, Book Review and Contest Giveaway


Book Description: Moon Over Alcatraz


Following the death of their baby during a difficult birth, Brandy and Weston Chambers are grief-stricken and withdraw from each other, both seeking solace outside of their marriage; however, they vow to work through their painful disloyalty. But when the man Brandy slept with moves back to their hometown, three lives are forever changed by his return.



* Contest Giveaway* 

Moon Over Alcatraz Contest Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card


Author Patricia Yager Delagrange will award a $25 Amazon Gift card to one randomly drawn commenter during the Moon Over Alcatraz virtual book tour. Follow the tour stops and comment on each tour stop for additional chances of winning! 

Click on the tour page link for a list of all the tour stops: Moon Over Alcatraz Virtual Book Tour Event Page








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In association with AToMR Book Blog Tours, Jersey Girl Book Reviews is pleased to host the following virtual book tour event:


Ties That Bind by Heather Huffman




Saturday, June 30, 2012 ~ Book Excerpt and Book Review


Book Description: Ties That Bind


Kate Yager never had a father, and she never minded - until her mom died. Now, acting on the name called out on her mother's deathbed, Kate has moved to San Francisco and gotten herself hired by the man she suspects to be her dad. As if a new job, new apartment, and new parent weren't enough, Kate finds herself head-over-heels in lust with a complete stranger she met at an art show. A stranger who, she later finds out, happens to work in her office.

As her relationships with her friends and father grow stronger, Kate has to confront the decisions of her past to find out whether she can love the man who gave her up, love the man who loves her truly, and even whether she can love herself.