King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt (Book Review)

King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt

Book 9: Power of the Matchmaker Series

Publisher: Wicked Sassy

Publication Date: August 29, 2016

Format: eBook - 351 pages

               Kindle - 2760 KB

ASIN: B01L9U3GRS

Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program presented by I Am A Reader. 

Book Description:

Esme Taylor has an amazing fiancé, a lifelong best friend, and a problem. The problem stems from the fact that her best friend is named Hunter and, well. . .he’s kind of (totally) hot. It’s hate at first sight when her fiancé, Jon, and Hunter meet. Jon’s convinced that Hunter is in love with Esme, and that Hunter must be out of the picture if their upcoming marriage is to succeed.

Esme thinks Jon is paranoid.

The truth is, Jon’s not that far off. Hunter is in love with his best friend and always has been. What Jon has wrong, however, is that Hunter never had any plans of ruining Esme’s happily ever after. Hunter wants what’s best for Esme, even if that’s not him.

When Jon pushes hard to end Esme and Hunter’s friendship, opposition comes from the most unlikely of places. It’s an eccentric lady with a cookie cart who suggests a different solution to Esme’s problem: Hunter and Esme should give each other a chance.

They’ve both thought of the possibility over the years—of course they have. But with a ring already on Esme’s finger and a heap of hurt feelings and broken trust in the mix, there hasn’t been a worse time to explore the depths of their feelings for each other.

Both Esme and Hunter think it’s time to move on and leave childhood crushes in the past. The question is: Can one woman and the taste of one cookie change their minds?

Note to Reader: This book is a "clean" read with mainstream values and minor language. It is also a stand alone read.


My Book Review:

King of the Friend Zone is a thoroughly entertaining romance novel about best friends discovering that their love for each other goes beyond the friend zone. 

Author Sheralyn Pratt weaves a sassy romantic tale that follows best friends Esme Taylor and Hunter Chase as they discover the love they have for each other is more than just as friends, with a little help from a wise Asian cookie vendor named Miss Pearl and best friends Grace, Ash, Luke and Daryl. There is a lot of witty banter and electrifying sparks under the surface between the two, it is so much fun to watch Esme and Hunter try to maintain a denial of attraction when it is so obvious that they are meant for each other. 

The story flows smoothly in the third person narrative alternating between Esme and Hunter's perspective, you can't help but get drawn into their story. There is so many laugh-out-loud moments and subtle sexual tension between the two, especially when they are in denial of the more than friends attraction that they have for each other, and the many trials and tribulations that they had to overcome in order to find the love that was under their nose all along.

It was fun to see that friends Grace and Ash from The Kiss That Launched A 1000 Gifs are included in the story, helping Esme and Hunter realize that they really are meant to be more than just best friends. The inclusion of their witty text messages is hilarious, I found myself laughing so much that I think I even snorted! I would be remiss if I didn't mention how much I really enjoyed Miss Pearl and her magical kissing cookies, and Hunter's side story as a volunteer mentor to at risk teens was so inspirational that it simply made me love this hunky fireman even more. 

King of the Friend Zone is a fast paced and delightful romance story that is the perfect read for the truly hopeless romantics at heart!

RATING: 5 STARS 

About The Author

Author Sheralyn Pratt's first job was as a karate instructor, which taught her that practice does not make perfect; practice makes habit--good or bad. Martial arts also taught Sheralyn that a master is simply a person who can effortlessly do all the actions a beginner finds difficult or maybe even impossible. Sheralyn has worked in many fields throughout her life, but her 12 years as a karate instructor have shaped how she does everything, including writing and mentoring. She likes to keep things light and fun, but she's also aware that life is journey and that if you're going to buy a book, your life should better for it. So, fiction or nonfiction, know that each of Sheralyn's books are designed to take you to a new place. Maybe that book is designed to help you escape for a few hours, or maybe it's a book designed to teach you a new skill. Either way, Sheralyn hopes it's unforgettable...in a good way.

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An Event to Remember .... or Forget by Melissa Baldwin (Book Review)

An Event to Remember ... or Forget by Melissa Baldwin

Book 1: Event To Remember Series

Publisher: Independent Self Publishing

Publication Date: June 2, 2014

Format: Paperback - 288 pages

               Kindle - 1654 KB

               Nook - 266 KB

ISBN: 978-0692226650
ASIN: B00KPKGTTG

BNID: 2940152576511

Genre: Chick Lit / Contemporary Romance / Romantic Comedy

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Buy The Series: Event To Remember Series
Book 1: An Event To Remember ... Or Forget
Book 2: Wedding Haters
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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.



Book Description:

Sienna Harris is a girl with a plan. Her days of slaving away at Carrie’s Classic Events and More are numbered as she is on the brink of launching her own event planning company. Her relationship with Luke Price is headed in the right direction and they are approaching their one-year mark. The future is looking bright and she knows that life could not get any better . . . That is until her perfectly planned world is thrown upside down by the unexpected arrival of someone from Luke’s past.

She receives the shock of her life on the night of the biggest event of her career. Sienna will now have to pull it all together without a list or a plan. The question is, can she do it?

Book Excerpt:

“Sienna, I want you to meet some of my co-workers. Ladies, this is Sienna Harris. She is the genius behind all of this,” says Abby, coming
toward me.

“Do you have any business cards?” asks the first woman.

“Yes, I do! I am still with Carrie’s Classic Events and More, but I am launching my own company very soon,” I say as I hand out a few
cards.

All of a sudden, I feel like I am being chased by the paparazzi. They all start talking at once; questions are flying at me from every direction.

“You work for the Carrie Anderstone?”

“Is it true what they say about her?”

“Does she still run that company?”

“I have heard some crazy stories.”

“I heard she had an affair with the mayor at his son’s graduation party. Were you at that event? Did you see anything?”

“How much plastic surgery has she really had?”

“Do you get along with her?”

“Where does she travel to so much?”

I’m not sure how to answer their questions. This is not the first time I’ve been asked all about the sordid details of Carrie’s life. I quickly decide to handle it in the best way I know how . . . I lie and change the subject.

My Book Review:

An Event to Remember or Forget is an entertaining chick lit / romantic comedy story that will keep you in stitches!

In An Event to Remember or Forget, the first book of the Event To Remember series, author Melissa Baldwin weaves a sassy tale that follows the event planning and romantic trials and tribulations of Sienna Harris.

Set in Southern California and told in the first person narrative, the reader follows event planner Sienna Harris as her plans to finish up her duties at Carrie's Classic Events and launch her own company, Sheer Happiness Events, go awry when she has issues with her always unavailable boss, society maven Carrie Anderstone, intertwined with fighting her relationship doubts with her boyfriend Luke, especially when she unexpectedly finds herself attracted to his arch nemesis, handsome Australian businessman Ace Eckelund.

This was such a fun book to read, it had a great mixture of drama, humor, and romance, that easily kept me engaged and laughing as I followed the unfolding of Sienna's story. Anyone can relate to the craziness surrounding event planning and how the best laid plans can unexpectedly go awry, especially when romance issues are added into the mix. There are lot of laugh-out-loud moments and surprising twist and turns: from her obsessive daily to-do-lists, to her romance troubles, to her determination to follow through on her plans for an important charity event that will help launch her own company, to her comedic interactions with best friends Madison, Abby, and Craig. Nothing is going to keep this sassy lady from achieving her dreams! I can't wait to see what new adventures await Sienna, Madison, Abby, and Craig in Wedding Haters, the second book in the series.

An Event to Remember or Forget is a fast paced and thoroughly enjoyable romantic comedy that will leave a smile on your face.


RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Author

  

Author Melissa Baldwin graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications; she has always had a love for writing. An avid journal keeper, she fulfilled her dream with her debut novel, An Event To Remember . . . Or Forget.

Melissa resides in Orlando, Florida, with her husband and young daughter. She is a master at organization and multi-tasking. Her daily jobs include mother, chauffeur, wife, PTA President, Fitness Trainer, and now Author.

When she has free time, she enjoys traveling, fitness, decorating, fashion, and taking a Disney Cruise every now and then.

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Murder On The Menu by Zanna Mackenzie (Book Review)

Murder On The Menu by Zanna Mackenzie

Book 1: A Celebrity Mystery Series

Publisher: Independent Self Publishing

Publication Date: September 24, 2015

Format: eBook - 266 pages

               Kindle - 1093 KB

ASIN: B015T6EYEW

Genre: Cozy Mystery

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Buy The Series: A Celebrity Mystery Series

Book 1: Murder On The Menu

Book 2: Holiday Heist

Book 3: Murder At The Bake Off

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus.

Book Description:

Lizzie Carter desperately needed to escape from the disaster of her old life but her new one is shaping up to be even worse!

After Lizzie's new boss, celebrity chef Armand, is stabbed in his own kitchen, Lizzie finds herself at the top of the suspect list.

Determined to clear her name she’s forced to enlist the services of her new neighbor, Celebrity Crimes Investigation Agency (CCIA) special agent Jack Mathis, who’s been suspended from his duties for reasons unknown.

Given his reputation, Lizzie figures it’s best not to ask too many questions of him; she only needs the rogue agent to help her catch Armand’s real killer. The fact that Jack is a good-looking guy is not lost on her, but he’s clearly also trouble. And Lizzie’s got more than enough of that in her life already.

Can Lizzie save herself from getting arrested and manage to resist her special agent sidekick’s considerable charms and gorgeous smile? Will they solve the culinary murder mystery or will her new life land her in a prison cell?

If you love fun cozy murder mysteries, with plenty of romance, comedy, intrigue and adventure, then don't miss out - grab your copy of Murder On The Menu today. Join Lizzie as she becomes an amateur sleuth battling to keep her freedom and her sanity - all while attempting to bake a cake that’s actually edible!


My Book Review:

In Murder On The Menu, the first book in the Celebrity Mystery Series, author Zanna Mackenzie weaves an entertaining cozy mystery tale that will keep the reader engaged and wanting more.

Lizzie Carter leaves London after breaking up with her journalist boyfriend to restart her life at a farmhouse that she inherited from her aunt and uncle in the scenic English countryside of Cumbria. She gets a job as a waitress at a local restaurant called The Veggies, but when her new boss and celebrity Chef Armand is found stabbed in the kitchen, Lizzie finds herself on top of the murder suspect list. Lizzie is determined to clear her name, and with the help of neighbor and suspended special agent Jack Mathis, they work together to investigate the murder in order to find the real killer.

I have always been a fan of cozy mystery stories, and Murder On The Menu is a fun whodunit tale that did not disappoint me. This is an exciting and fast-paced tale that has enough mystery, suspense, humor, romance, intriguing twists and turns, and a list of suspects that will easily keep the reader engaged and guessing who the real killer is until the end. I enjoyed following Lizzie and Jack's investigative adventure, their witty banter, humorous trials and tribulations, and subtle romantic scenes easily kept my interest and wanting more. I look forward to reading their adventure in the series.

If you want to pass the weekend reading an enjoyable cozy mystery, then look no further, Murder On The Menu is the book for you!



RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Author

Zanna Mackenzie lives in the UK with her husband, 3 dogs, a vegetable patch that’s home to far too many weeds and an ever expanding library of books waiting to be read.

Being a freelance writer and editor of business publications is her ‘day job’ but, at every opportunity, she can be found scribbling down notes on scenes for whatever novel she’s working on. She loves it when the characters in her novels take on minds of their own and start deviating from the original plot!

Formerly a travel agent and therapist (she has qualifications in clinical aromatherapy, crystal healing, naturopathic nutrition and herbalism) she loves walking the dogs and gardening – that’s when she’s not writing or reading!


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Just a Kiss by Kate Kisset (Book Review)

Just a Kiss by Kate Kisset

Book 1: The Single Girls Wine Club / A Wine Country Romance Series

Publisher: Castlerock Publishing

Publication Date: July 23, 2015

Format: eBook - 177 pages

               Kindle - 1136 KB

ASIN: B00ZH4W0WU

Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus.

Book Description:

Three friends
One Wine Country Villa
Six Santino Brothers
And lots of wine …

Reeling from the loss of her mother, Sarah Dupont catches her fiancé doing the nasty on top of her pastry table at their San Francisco Bakery.

Devastated, she calls her best friend, lifestyle reporter, Danica Vargas. Danica convinces Sarah to start fresh and move in with her at Bella Villa mansion in Sonoma Valley.

With two roommates who act like the sisters she never had,and a feisty landlord to stand in as the grandmother she always wanted, Sarah’s opens a café on the Sonoma Plaza.

Her life changes the moment the little bell on the door rings and the notoriously sexy actor Jamie Santino, swaggers in.

Jamie, one of the six Santino Brothers, of Napa Valley Winery fame, needs baking lessons for his new movie and Sarah is just the woman to teach him. Wine flows, their love affair heats up and a tempestuous femme fatale enters the scene.

How can Sarah trust that Jamie isn’t acting when everything he says seems too good to be true?



My Book Review:

Can a cafe owner and a movie star find love or will they only share just a kiss?

In her debut novel, Just a Kiss, author Kate Kisset weaves a sweet romance tale set in the picturesque California Sonoma Valley wine country.

Sarah Dupont is restarting her life in Sonoma Valley after finding her ex-fiance Robert having sex with Samantha, her friend and accountant, on her pastry table in their San Francisco bakery. She is living with friends Dana Vargas, an entertainment and lifestyle reporter with the Napa Sun newspaper, Juliet St. John, a tv morning show host, and their landlady, Lulu Castelli, owner of the historic Bella Vista mansion and Castelli Vineyards. Within six months of living in Sonoma Valley, Sarah opened the Vine Cafe filled delicious baked goods and aromatic coffee. With no interest in finding love, Sarah puts her all into her cafe, doubting that she'll ever be able to love or be loved again.

Jamie Santino is one of six sons from the successful family owned Santino Winery in Napa Valley. He is an actor who had his heart broken and career trashed by movie director Clarissa Thomas. He has had lots of flings, but no serious relationships. He has tried to find a "normal" woman outside of the Hollywood film industry, but none have clicked. He has waited for the right starring role in a movie to come along to restart his acting career, and now he has a chance with a starring role as a famous American baker who moves to France to open a patisserie.

Dana talks Sarah into helping Jamie prepare for his role as a baker, and at first she has little interest in helping him, that is until the sexy movie star walks into her cafe. Who knew that with one little kiss, some baking and some wine, that love could be so amazing?

Just a Kiss is the first book in The Single Girls Wine Club / A Wine Country Romance Series. It is a delightful tale that follows the romance of Sarah and Jamie in the heart of the Sonoma Valley wine country. From the time they met, the chemistry and spark between Sarah and Jamie was undeniable, their sexy flirtation made me smile, and one little spoiler teaser: the rolling dough scene was very sensuous and reminded me of the clay-making scene in the movie Ghost. I loved the mixture of humor, friendship, drama, and romance that was interwoven throughout the storyline. I really enjoyed the friendship between Sarah, Dana, Juliet, and Lulu, they are normal ladies living everyday lives that anyone can relate to, their friendship reminded me of my own close-knit group of friends. The author does a wonderful job of transporting the reader to the picturesque Sonoma Valley wine country with a rich description of the locale sights and sounds that makes me yearn to travel there and sample some local wine and baked goods! I would be remiss if I didn't mention that there are six sexy Santino brothers for the readers to meet, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

So if you are in the mood to read a sweet little romance story interwoven with yummy baked goods and wine that will make your mouth water, then look no further, Just a Kiss is the book for you!



RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Author

Former San Francisco radio disc jockey Kate Kisset is passionate about telling great stories.

After playing thousands of Pop, Country, Rock and Oldies tunes, for her primarily female fan base, she changed her tune and became an author.

Just a Kiss is the first book in her wine country romance series, The Single Girls Wine Club.

She lives in Northern California and Santa Barbara with her family and rescue pup “editor” Luciana Parmigiana, where she hikes, reads, listens to music, and drinks wine.


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A Jingle Valley Wedding by Martha Reynolds (Book Review)

A Jingle Valley Wedding by Martha Reynolds

Publisher: Independent Self Publishing

Publication Date: November 6, 2015

Format: Paperback - 266 pages 

               Kindle - 1379 KB

ISBN: 978-1518707575

ASIN:  B017PCLGSU
Genre: Romance / Women's Fiction

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus.

Book Description:

New York executive Julie Tate knows what it takes to win in the financial world, but her big-city success could never prepare her for her latest career move. When her brother abandons the failing family farm, Julie hopes its salvation lies in transforming it into western Massachusetts’s newest premier wedding venue. With her social-savvy friend Freddy in her corner, Julie feels infallible.

But as their bank account dwindles and one obstacle after another crops up, the business partners wonder if their venture is doomed for failure before the first bride walks down the aisle. Maybe the best way to succeed in a business based on romance is to find one.



My Book Review:

A Jingle Valley Wedding is a delightful romance story of family tradition, friendship, and new beginnings.

Author Martha Reynolds weaves an enjoyable romance tale told in the alternating third person narrative, and set in NYC, Phoenix, Arizona, and Dalton, Massachusetts, that follows the journey of siblings Julie and Thomas Tate, who decide to make major changes in their lives.

Thirty-four year old Julie Tate is a career driven financial executive living in NYC. Julie's thirty-six year old brother Thomas manages Jingle Valley Farms, their generational family farm in the small Western Massachusetts town of Dalton. A few days before Christmas, Thomas has had enough of living alone in the cold New England small town, and decides to restart his life and find love in the warmth of Phoenix, Arizona, where his older brother Don and sister-in-law Linda live. There's just one small problem, Julie was heading home to spend Christmas with Thomas, but he avoids a confrontation with Julie, leaving a voice message on her phone. Thomas and Julie share equal ownership of the family farm, but he wants to sell the property and move forward with his life in Phoenix. Julie spends the holiday at the farm and decides that she can't bear to let the farm go, so her best friend Freddy Campion, who works in the construction / restoration business, proposes that they form a business partnership and transform the farm into a rustic wedding destination place with a bed and breakfast, and convert the barn into a wedding venue with a honeymoon suite. Follow Thomas, Julie, and Freddy as their journey to restart their lives brings major changes and new beginnings.

A Jingle Valley Wedding is a really fun story to read. It is so easy to get drawn in as Thomas and Julie's journey unfolds in alternating chapters, as they navigate the trials and tribulations on their quest to restart their lives. Interwoven with a family backstory, you can't help but relate to the siblings and their desire for a new start in life. While I enjoyed following Thomas' journey to finding love and happiness in Phoenix, I absolutely loved following Julie and best friend Freddy as they leave their jobs and relocate from NYC to the small town of Dalton, to renovate Julie's family farm into a wedding destination. Each sibling had their trials and tribulations to overcome on their journey, it kept me engaged and wanting to see how their lifestyle changes and transitions would turn out for them, but I would be remiss if I didn't mention that it was lovable best friend Freddy who really made me enjoy the story the most. While romance was in the air for Thomas, Julie and Freddy seemed to have a hard time finding love while getting their business started, finally it was at the end of the story when the author teased the reader with a cliffhanger appearance of two suitors for the best friends. Perhaps the author will provide the reader with a sequel that will follow up on Julie and Freddy's romances and how their Jingle Valley wedding venue fares over time.

With a quirky cast of characters; witty dialogue and humorous interactions; drama and a touch of romance; and a rich description of the settings of NYC, Phoenix, and the scenic small town of Dalton; A Jingle Valley Wedding is an enjoyable romance tale that will leave you wanting more.


RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Author

Martha Reynolds is a Rhode Island resident who loves the beach (especially in winter), chocolate, and books. After ending an accomplished career as a fraud investigator, she started writing novels - fiction with an element of truth. "Real True Fiction."

Her Amazon bestselling series the Chocolate Trilogy has had over 40,000 downloads, and CHOCOLATE FOR BREAKFAST, her debut novel, continues to be one of her most popular books. She has published six novels, including BITS OF BROKEN GLASS and BEST SELLER. Her new book, A JINGLE VALLEY WEDDING, was released in November 2015. She is presently working on a new novel, as yet untitled.


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Spring In Snow Valley Anthology Collection (Book Review)

  

Spring in Snow Valley Anthology Collection by Cindy Roland Anderson, Jeanette Lewis, Cami Checketts, Taylor Hart, Kimberley Montpetit, Lucy McConnell

Publisher:  Pepin Publishing Company 

Publication Date: March 1, 2016

Format: eBook - 605 pages

               Kindle - 3996 KB

ASIN: B01BLUIUAO

Genre: Christian / Inspirational / Contemporary Romance

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Buy The Snow Valley Romance Anthology Collection Series:
Spring in Snow Valley
Summer in Snow Valley
Christmas in Snow Valley
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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the publisher / authors in exchange for my honest review and participation in a Book Review Program hosted by I Am A Reader Book Blasts and Virtual Book Tours.

Book Description:

Operation—Kiss the Girl, Cindy Roland Anderson

Ivy Baker is doomed to marry a man she only pretends to be in love with to save the family ranch. Since she isn’t marrying for love, Ivy secretly creates a kissing wish list composed of scenes from the romance books she loves to read. She hopes to experience at least one kiss from her list before she becomes officially engaged and seals her fate. When she travels to Snow Valley to help her aunt recover from knee surgery, Ivy finds herself falling for Kellen Thomas, an irresistible cowboy she should avoid. By chance Kellen finds Ivy’s list, and decides to make it his mission to help her fulfill her bucket list, turning her world upside down and making Ivy want to choose her heart over duty.


Love Coming Late, Jeanette Lewis

Cynthia Eddington never thought she'd return to Snow Valley after a string of bad luck forced the sale of her beloved farm there. But here she is, about to start a new life with her children, Jackson and Anoria. Cynthia plans to focus on her career and her family; she's not looking for romance and she's definitely not looking for sexy cowboy, Colby Schroder.


Running from the Cowboy, Cami Checketts

Missy Horman escaped an abusive marriage and returns to Snow Valley to help her father deal with her emotionally disturbed mother. Volunteering to teach a youth Sunday school class seems like a good way to get out of her comfort zone—until she ends up kissing Porter Wilson in front of a bunch of teenagers. Embarrassed, and secretly thrilled, by the kiss, she writes Porter off as a playboy. But, Missy wasn't the only one affected and Porter's new mission in life is to prove that there's more to him than flirting and world-tilting kisses. He wants to show her that a true cowboy knows how to treat a lady and, if Missy can't keep her wits about her, she might just let him.


The Bet, Taylor Hart

When Destiny Morningstar gets blackmailed into spending her spring break in Snow Valley, the last thing she’s looking for is a date, especially not with Adam and Chase Moon—two attractive and athletic brothers. But soon she finds herself tangled up in a dating spree that includes a flag football game, swinging around the barn dance, and hiking to Snow Valley's romantic hot springs with the town's most eligible bachelors. At every turn she's within kissing distance of one of the delectable Moon men. When she discovers she’s been part of some bet fueled by sibling rivalry and overactive egos she has to make a decision—forgive them both or miss out on the best thing that’s ever happened to her.


Sealed with a Kiss, Kimberley Montpetit

Jessica Mason and Pastor James are struggling to make their long-distance relationship work between Snow Valley and New Orleans where Jessica dances with the local ballet company. When April Murphy, a war widow with a child, shows up in Snow Valley, James reluctantly begins to wonder if he and Jessica are really meant to be. April would make the perfect pastor’s wife and he’d have an instant family and the stability he craves. But he can’t get the spitfire Jessica out of his mind and when she returns to Snow Valley to accept an inheritance, her male ballet partner in tow, the love triangle takes on a new edge. Can Jessica and James figure out how to create a family while living in two different states—or do they allow their hearts to move on and forget the passion they once shared?


Romancing a Husband, Lucy McConnell

Natalie Lawson is at a crossroads. Her husband is down on his luck and some days he’s just plain down while Natalie is moving forward, gaining promotions and starting new adventures. In some ways, they’ve grown apart and Natalie can’t help but wonder if her path through life will always include Eli. When tragedy throws them together, Natalie learns a profound lesson that may save her marriage and provide the key to romancing a husband.

My Book Review:

Spring in Snow Valley is an enjoyable Inspirational romance anthology collection that will tug at the heartstrings. Set in the small town of Snow Valley, Montana, the reader is easily swept away by these six lighthearted novellas that features hunky guys, sweet girls, and clean romance.

I really enjoyed reading Christmas in Snow Valley and Summer in Snow Valley, the first two anthology collections in this series, so I was excited to read the third anthology collection, Spring in Snow Valley. The authors provide the readers with another delightful collection of romantic stories that features characters from the previous collections while adding in new characters. These inspirational stories flow easily from one to another with a variety of different life and relationship situations, the continuity of these stories easily kept me engaged and turning the pages. 

Spring in Snow Valley is the perfect romantic anthology collection that the reader can enjoy reading on a lazy spring day.


RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Authors

Cindy Roland Anderson writes clean, contemporary romance with a combination of humor, romantic tension and some pretty great kissing scenes. She and her husband, John, live in northern Utah, and have five amazing children. Their family has expanded by adding a son-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and four adorable grandchildren. She is a registered nurse and has worked in the NICU as well as the newborn nursery. She loves to read, almost as much as she loves writing. And she loves chocolate, probably a little too much.

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Cami Checketts is married and the proud mother of four future WWF champions. Sometimes between being a human horse, cleaning up magic potions, and reading Bernstein Bears, she gets the chance to write fiction. * Cami graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Exercise Science. She teaches strength training at her local rec and shares health and fitness articles at http://fitnessformom.blogspot.com. * Cami and her family live in the beautiful Cache Valley of Northern Utah. During the two months of the year it isn't snowing, she enjoys swimming, biking, running, and water-skiing.

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Taylor Hart is a best selling amazon contemporary romance author. Taylor has always been drawn to a good love triangle, hot chocolate and long conversations with new friends. Writing has always been a passion that has consumed her daydreams and forced her to sit in a trance for long hours, completely obsessed with people that don't really exist. Taylor would have been a country star if she could have carried a tune--maybe in the next life.

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Jeanette Lewis is a bestselling author of clean romance novels. Dreaming up stories has always been one of Jeanette's favorite things. Other favorites include family, friends, crisp Autumn days, having adventures, and frozen gummy bears.

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Lucy McConnell is an Amazon Best Selling Contemporary Romance Author.

She started out as an editor at an advertising agency before moving on to teach in the marketing department of the local community college. She loved teaching and often misses the academic environment.

After her third child was born, Lucy retired from teaching and began to write. She has been published in national magazines, newspapers, short story compilations, and she writes cookbooks under the name Christina Dymock.

Lucy works as a Recreation Specialist, marketing copywriter, and author when she's not trying to keep up with her husband and four kids. If she's not at the computer, you can find her on the ski slopes, in a boat, in the kitchen, or in the stands watching one of her children bat, dribble, or play goalie.

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Kimberley Montpetit once spent all her souvenir money at the La Patisserie shops when she was in Paris--on the arm of her adorable husband. The author grew up in San Francisco, another swoon-worthy city, but currently lives in a small town along the Rio Grande with her big, messy family.

Kimberley reads a book a day to fill up her heart and soul with words and stories. She also loves to travel to new and exotic places. So far, she's stayed in the haunted tower room at Borthwick Castle in Scotland, sailed on the Seine in Paris, swam in the waters at Cannes, ridden a camel among the glorious cliffs of Petra, sunbathed on Waikiki, shopped the maze of the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and spent the night in an old Communist hotel in Bulgaria.

She also publishes Middle-Grade and Young Adult novels with Scholastic and Harpercollins under the name Kimberley Griffiths Little. Find her here on Amazon and on her website: www.KimberleyGriffithsLittle.com. Kimberley won the Whitney Award, has been a Crystal Kite Finalist, a New Mexico Book Award Finalist, and included several times in the Bank Street College Best Books of the Year.

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Magic Wand Ranch (Book Review)

Magic Wand Ranch by Caroline Mickelson

Publisher: Bon Accord Press

Publication Date: June 22, 2015

Format: Paperback - 139 pages / eBook - 94 pages

               Kindle - 510 KB

ISBN: 978-1514646908

ASIN: B0108UXFLM

Genre: Romantic Comedy

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus Blog Tours.

Book Description:

Fiona Cantrell is a woman on a mission. More aptly put, she's a Fairy Godmother on a mission. Her dream of moving to London is about to come true now that all that stands between her and her new job is a few unpacked suitcases. Or so she thinks until her old boss shows up with one more little task for her to complete before she leaves for Europe. Her new assignment involves a handsome cowboy named Cody, his two rascally nephews, and a mountain of laundry...all of which would be no problem for any self-respecting Fairy Godmother.

While Fiona manages to handle the laundry and the boys, she quickly learns that she's not immune to Cody's considerable charm. It takes everything she's got to stay focused on completing her task so she can head to London. But when tragedy strikes, Fiona realizes that it will take more magic than she has to try to save a life and mend her own broken heart.


My Book Review:

Magic Wand Ranch is an enjoyable romantic comedy novella that will make you smile!

Author Caroline Mickelson weaves a sweet romantic comedy that follows Fairy Godmother Fiona Cantrell as she embarks on one final assignment before she moves to London. Fiona's assignment is to babysit two little boys at their uncle Cody's ranch. So what's a girl to do when she unexpectedly finds herself falling for a handsome cowboy?

This was a delightful romantic comedy that was such a fun read. I was thoroughly entertained by the quirky mixture of romance and witty comedy in the story, it is filled with enough humor, drama, and romance that is sure to leave a smile on your face. You can't help but get drawn into Fiona and Cody's story, it will keep you laughing as two cute little boys' crazy antics help spark magic into an unexpected romance between Fiona and Cody, providing them with a chance at finding true love.

Magic Wand Ranch is a lighthearted romantic comedy novella that is perfect to read in one sitting.


RATING: 4 STARS 

About The Author

Caroline Mickelson loves her family and loves to write. She also loves a good adventure, among her favorites thus far were attending graduate school in a Scottish castle, riding a camel around the Pyramids in Giza, and taking a best-in-a-lifetime road trip to Graceland. Caroline lives in the American southwest with her husband and their four children, affectionately known as The Miracles.


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Killing Me Softly by Kathryn R. Biel (Book Review)

Killing Me Softly by Kathryn R. Biel

Publisher: Independent Self Publisher

Publication Date: July 2, 2015

Format: Paperback - 266 pages

               Kindle - 1197 KB

               Nook - 831 KB

ISBN: 978-0991391783

ASIN: B010WCE4H0
BNID: 2940149841066

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women's Fiction

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Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a book review program hosted by Chick Lit Plus.


Book Description:

Sadie Perkins has a sixth sense about things—especially people dying. Her clairvoyance has never bothered her until she starts to believe that her visions are causing the deaths of those around her. After her latest relationship ends ... badly ... Sadie swears off love for good. While searching for an uncomplicated life, Sadie finds her hands full not only with a home renovation project but with defending herself against suspicion of murder. There's a fine line between predicting someone's death and causing it. Has Sadie finally crossed that line?

Enter contractor Max Schultz, who is not only good at working on houses, but he's good at working on Sadie too. Much to Max's dismay, as he's trying to win Sadie's heart, he finds Sadie's first love, Henry Fitzsimmons, is back in the picture, snooping around.

Sadie doesn't know which way to turn or who to trust, including herself. Can Sadie clear her name and open her heart all at the same time?


My Book Review:

In Killing Me Softly, author Kathryn R. Biel weaves an intriguing romantic tale with a twist of mystery, and suspense. The readers are easily drawn into Sadie Perkins' story, she has the gift of clairvoyance which causes complications in her life when she starts to believe that her visions cause the death of people around her. She finds her life gets complicated when she is under suspicion of murder, and has the burden of trying to defend herself and clear her name. To relieve the stress, Sadie turns to a home renovation project, and along comes sexy contractor Max Schultz, who tries to win her heart. With plenty of drama and trouble following at her heels, can Sadie clear her name and open her heart to love?

Killing Me Softly is a thoroughly entertaining story that has just the right amount of intertwining romance, humor, mystery and suspense. As Sadie's story unfolded, it had enough drama, emotion, laugh out loud moments, and gritty twists and turns, that easily drew me in, kept me guessing, and wanting to know what would happen next. I have always been interested in the area of psychic phenomenon, so Sadie's gift of clairvoyance and the burden that comes with it really peaked my interest, kept me engaged, and turning the pages. I loved the backstory of Sadie's life, the rich description of the small town setting, the quirky pop culture references, the witty dialogue, and I would be remiss if I didn't mention that I really enjoyed watching how Sadie's romantic relationships played out in the end.


RATING: 5 STARS 

About The Author

Telling stories of resilient women, Kathryn R. Biel hails from upstate New York and is a spouse and mother of two wonderful and energetic kids. In between being Chief Home Officer and Director of Child Development of the Biel household, she works as a school-based physical therapist. She attended Boston University and received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The Sage Colleges. After years of writing countless letters of medical necessity for wheelchairs, finding increasingly creative ways to encourage the government and insurance companies to fund her clients' needs, and writing entertaining annual Christmas letters, she decided to take a shot at writing the kind of novel that she likes to read. Her musings and rants can be found on her personal blog, Biel Blather. She is the author of Good Intentions (2013), Hold Her Down (2014), I'm Still Here (2014), Jump, Jive, and Wail (2015), and Killing Me Softly (2015).


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