Sunday, September 29, 2019

Book Tour: This Earl of Mine by Kate Bateman



This Earl of Mine by Kate Bateman
Summary:
Introducing the Bow Street Bachelors—men who work undercover for London’s first official police force—and the women they serve to protect. . .and wed?

Shipping heiress Georgiana Caversteed is done with men who covet her purse more than her person. Even worse than the ton’s lecherous fortune hunters, however, is the cruel cousin determined to force Georgie into marriage. If only she could find a way to be . . . widowed? Georgie hatches a madcap scheme to wed a condemned criminal before he’s set to be executed. All she has to do is find an eligible bachelor in prison to marry her, and she’ll be free. What could possibly go wrong?

Benedict William Henry Wylde, scapegrace second son of the late Earl of Morcott and well-known rake, is in Newgate prison undercover, working for Bow Street. Georgie doesn’t realize who he is when she marries him—and she most certainly never expects to bump into her very-much-alive, and very handsome, husband of convenience at a society gathering weeks later. Soon Wylde finds himself courting his own wife, hoping to win her heart since he already has her hand. But how can this seductive rogue convince brazen, beautiful Georgie that he wants to be togetheruntil actual death do they part?

Author Bio:
Kate Bateman, (also writing as K. C. Bateman), is the #1 bestselling author of historical romances, including her RITA® nominated Renaissance romp, The Devil To Pay, and the novels in the Secrets & Spies series To Steal a Heart, A Raven’s Heart, and A Counterfeit Heart. When not writing novels that feature feisty, intelligent heroines and sexy, snarky heroes you want to both strangle and kiss, Kate works as a fine art appraiser and on-screen antiques expert for several popular TV shows in the UK. She splits her time between Illinois and her native England. Follow her on Twitter to learn more.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Book Review: VSS365 Anthology: Volume One: A stunning collection of Very Short Stories from around the globe



VSS365 Anthology: Volume One: A stunning collection of Very Short Stories from around the globe 


Most of the reason I'm on Twitter is to participate in the #WritingCommunity there and some of their writing games. #VSS365 (very short story 365 days a year) provides a word prompt every day to write a tweet for. Full disclosure: I write #VSS365 though I didn't submit to this anthology.
As with most anthologies, you get a mix but I found the judges did a pretty good selection of tweets. I've read some in the past on Twitter, but I was surprised at how many I'd missed reading - those tweets fly by on my stream. It's fun to see the different takes people use for the same word. There are some poems and mostly short stories. I hope they do another anthology. Oh, and all royalties of this anthology go directly to a children's literacy charity.

Book Tour & Giveaway: Fall of the Western Kings by J Drew Brumbaugh


Fall of the Western Kings
Tirumfall Trilogy Book 1
by J Drew Brumbaugh
Genre: Epic Fantasy 

Gant is a commoner, forbidden from learning swordsmanship. He trains in spite of the law and ends up branded an outlaw. However fate intervenes while Gant is on the run and soon he is embroiled in an odyssey with forces of darkness that can only be vanquished with help from his friends, not all of whom are human. An epic that delivers the best in the tradition of classic fantasy.






Child of Evil
Tirumfall Trilogy Book 2 

The story started with "Fall of the Western Kings". Now "Child of Evil" continues the odyssey of Gant, the hero who killed Varg with his magical sword Valorious and who must now use his strength and cunning to find and neutralize the child born of evil. This child is prophesized to lead the demons of the western kingdoms to victory over the people of the east. Other characters accompany Gant to Ferd, the city where the child will be born. Amelia is a shape-changer who flies to the west to do reconnaissance only to be captured and imprisoned. Pris, the emperor and blossoming wizard, worries about the evil forces and knows the child cannot be allowed to unite the demonic powers. His untested magic will be key to stopping the impending doom. Dalphnia, Gant’s wife, is a woodland nymph who can control the trees of the forest and is determined to see her husband come through this journey alive. Can this unlikely group intervene in time to stop the child and the carnage that is sure to follow? Will it mean killing the child? Resolving this moral dilemma while outwitting the demons and getting back to the safety of their homes makes for a rousing adventure. "Child of Evil" is the second book in J. Drew Brumbaugh’s fantasy series, The Tirumfall Triology.






I live in northeast Ohio where I write sci-fi, fantasy, and suspense novels, along with a few short stories. Mostly I write stories I think I'd like to read with characters that are interesting enough that readers want to find out what happens to them. I also spend time teaching and training at the karate dojo my wife and I founded, building a Japanese garden in the back yard, and taking walks in the woods with our dog. I have six novels in print, the most recent being "Bula Bridge," a collection of short stories, and a co-authored children’s book. I continue to work on my next book and seem to always have several stories in various stages of completion.




Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!








Thursday, September 26, 2019

Book Tour & Giveaway: Regency Matchmaker series by Celeste Jones


His Tempestuous Bride
The Regency Matchmaker Series Book 1
by Celeste Jones
Genre: Historical Romance 

Meet Lady Ambrosia Anaconda Algonquin, matchmaker to London's most discerning citizens. Part fairy godmother, part sorting hat, her methods might be unusual, but she always makes her match. 


For Lady Tempest Tapoate, marriage means an end to the tyranny of the aunt and uncle into whose care she was forced when her parents died. She would rather have a stranger select her spouse than allow those two sods to select a husband for her.

James Harley, the Earl of Knox, is in need of an heir. He has righted the family fortunes after mismanagement by his mother and is now in need of a wife to bear a child. Once the deed is done, he expects the two of them will go their separate ways.

When Tempest finds herself with child, rather than share the good news with her husband so that they may each move on with their lives, she realizes that she does not want to be set aside by her spouse. But how long can she keep her secret?

Publisher’s Note: This standalone Regency romance contains power exchange, domestic discipline, explicit themes and more than a few laugh out loud moments. If you do not like a bit of tongue in cheek with your romance, please do not buy this book.





His Mischievous Bride
The Regency Matchmaker Series Book 2


William

I am William St. Clair, and I first fell in love in my youth. I had grand plans to propose to Calliope on her eighteenth birthday. Due to unforeseen circumstances, namely Thomas Harley, it did not happen. I am now twenty years into service in the British Army, and known as Colonel William St. Clair, and have never stopped loving my Callie. I am in London with plans to retire and find some happiness for my future.

Calliope
Although I fell in love as a young girl with William, the boy next door, I married Lord Thomas Harley and am now the Dowager Countess of Knox. And through all the years, I have never stopped thinking about William. Now widowed but still young, I want more in my life than living as a guest in the house I called home during my marriage, and I loathe the idea of being a burden to my grown son. It’s time for me to take control of my life. A visit to Lady Ambrosia, who made a wonderful match for my son and new daughter-in-law, is in order. Is there a man out there for me?

Publisher’s Note: This humorous adult romance contains elements of mystery, suspense, danger, explicit scenes and domestic discipline. If any of these elements offend you, please do not purchase. This is book two in the series but can be read as a standalone.





Lessons For His Bride
The Regency Matchmaker Series Book 3

Despite not having a great start in life, Seraphina never gave up hope that good fortune would smile upon her. Just when things are looking most dire for her, she is whisked off to a new life at Primrose Park, home of Lady Tempest Knox and her husband, James.


When it is time for Seraphina to be married, Lady Tempest knows there is only one person up to the task – Lady Ambrosia, Matchmaker to the Discerning.

Dr. Lucas Spencer, the most eligible bachelor in the village of Briar Glen, is shocked by the lengths to which the local ladies – and their mothers – will go to ensnare him in marriage. Looking for a proper bride to share his life, he contacts Lady Ambrosia.

Seraphina has never met a man as handsome as Lucas, and when he boldly informs her that marriage to him will include firm discipline, Seraphina’s heart melts for her stern husband.

Lucas and Seraphina are well on their way to happily ever after. But will a secret from Seraphina’s past tear them apart forever?

This is book three in the Regency Matchmaker Series but can be enjoyed as a standalone.
Publisher’s Note: This steamy historical romance contains elements of power exchange.





His Bargained For Bride
The Regency Matchmaker Series Book 4

A widow who has sworn off men. A lord who’s finished with women. So why can’t they keep their hands off each other?

A deathbed wish from a beloved relative sends Lord Drake Stowe to Lady Ambrosia with a unique request—a short term fiancĂ©e. When Lady Ambrosia suggests her assistant, Amy, would be the perfect choice for the temporary charade, Amy is less than pleased. Drake, in dire straits, has little choice but to agree.
When circumstances change, the unlikely couple  finds themselves married. Will they be able to stick to their bargain?

This is book four in the Regency Matchmaker series but can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Publisher’s Note: This historical romance is intended for adults only. It contains elements of sensual scenes and power exchange. If any of these offend you, please do not purchase.




USA Today bestselling author Celeste Jones is known for writing highly entertaining erotic romance featuring headstrong heroines and stern yet loving heroes who aren't afraid to take a naughty woman over their knees. When she's not writing, she enjoys travel, reading and dancing like no one is watching.




Follow the tour HERE for exclusive content and a giveaway!










Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Book Tour & Giveaway: Legend of Song de Light Audio Play by Kaitlynzq


Legend of Song de Light audio play

words and prose that comes directly from the poet’s heart. It set as an audio play, with character sketches and individual acts. Her words spoken in the character’s voice is so melodic and lyrical. The words come to life, as the details bring the reader in and enjoy the storyKaitlynzq definitely paints a beautiful scene and story with her prolific words…” by Amy with Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews

This is a very unique bookThis is an entertaining story full of lovely poetry that paints beautiful images in the mind.” by Gina with Gina Rae Mitchell

Legend of Song de Light is a book filled with romantic stories about couples from different eras. The writing style varies from prose to poetry. The detailing description of the scenes manages to stimulate your imagination, bring out very strong emotions and creates some breathtaking moments5 stars.” by Ioanna with nanasbookreviews



Legend of Song de Light audio play is included in the interconnected series Lovecontu Song de Light Lovecontu

Available at






Follow the tour HERE!








follow on SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/kaitlynzq



















Monday, September 23, 2019

Book Review: Fire & Blood (A Targaryen History #1) by George RR Martin

GRRM's Fire & Blood is a history of Westeros under the Targaryens from Aegon I through the regency of Aegon III. This is NOT the Winds of Winter or anything like the Ice & Fire series. This is a history book which would be considered non-fiction if Westeros was a real country. Think Ian Mortimer, Niall Ferguson, David Starkey, or other noted historians of the British Isles.
That said, I loved this book. The history of the Targaryens is fascinating, on par with the Plantagenets except they have dragons. Martin has created such a rich and detailed world that he could write dozens of future books to expand on various people and events included as snippets here. Who wouldn't want to read more about the Red Kraken, the other sea voyages of Alyn Velaryon, Saera Targaryen, and so on?
I love the way Martin incorporates 'sources' into his writing. He's very careful to attribute certain incidents to previously written histories of maesters or the more dubious and bawdy memoir of Mushroom, the court fool. Like any historian, he must reconcile varying sources as he recounts various events.
Martin has always used bits of English history in his stories, and I had fun trying to decipher various characters and incidents from real history. He never copies directly (there are dragons after all) but sneaks little scenes into the story. I think I recognized the first and second battles of St Albans, Richard III's fatal charge at Bosworth, the Peasant's Rebellion, as well as more bits from the Wars of the Roses. The war called the Dance of Dragons could well be the Anarchy (the civil war between Stephen and Matilda).  Aegon III's regency could be drawn from the minority of Richard II.
This is a 700 page book, and I could go on, but now, along with the Winds of Winter, I'm waiting for A Targaryen History #2.

Book Tour & Giveaway: Heart of the Family Series by Stacy Eaton


Mistletoe & Cocoa Kisses
Heart of the Family Book 1
by Stacy Eaton
Genre: Contemporary Romance 

Robin Cove has had enough of her boss, is over her boyfriend, and makes a split-second decision to leave it all behind. Too bad she didn’t check the weather forecast before she left. Stranded on the side of the road when her old car breaks down, Robin fears her impulsive action will be the death of her as her body temperature steadily lowers to dangerous levels.


Matt Landry is slowly making his way home in the storm when he finds an unconscious woman on the side of the road and rushes her home to his father Chris to save her.

When Robin wakes up, she finds herself in the kind of home that she has always dreamed of having, except for the handsome man with the surly attitude. As much as Robin wants to stay, she knows she’ll never win him over and needs to find the right future for herself.

Will Robin’s future bring her back to Chris and his kids, or will Chris lose the chance to have the love of a woman who will never leave him and the family he has always wanted?




**Only .99cents!!**


Roses & Champagne Kisses
Heart of the Family Book 2 

Finley Parker loves working in catering but hates her boss and her life in Middletown. When Robin Landry steals her away to work for Heart of the Family Catering in Cricklewood Cove, Finley is ready to cook up a new life.


An accident in the kitchen finds Robin laid up and Finley must take over the planning of a wedding for a nightmare bride. It doesn’t help that sitting beside the spoiled woman is a tempting and tasty morsel of a man.

Roan Waterman is ready to take on life again after six years of mourning his wife. With his son about to head to college, Roan is looking for a woman to build a new life and his eyes are set on Finley.

Misunderstandings, overheard secrets and a major surprise from Finley’s past will keep these two on their toes as they prepare for the upcoming wedding.





Orchids & Hurricane Kisses
Heart of the Family Book 3 

Rye Waterman left his bride at the altar, but not before he learned she’d cheated on him and was pregnant with another man’s baby. Determined to forget it all, Rye goes on his honeymoon to a tropical island alone.


Amy Black was sent to the island to work on a special feature of a lifetime with a famous Caribbean chef who never gives interviews. Only problem is the resort lost her luggage, including her passport, the chef had a family emergency on another island, and now a category four hurricane is barreling toward the island, and she has no way to get off.

It’s laughter and twenty questions for these two as they get lost in a vacation romance that leaves them both wishing for more. When a crisis has Amy rushing home and Rye in a tailspin for her safety, it will take a tragedy and a miracle to bring them back together.





Carnations & Hot Toddy Kisses
Heart of the Family Book 4 

Joanne DuPree had no reservations about following her best friend to Cricklewood Cove. How could she when Amy and her daughter Cammie were as close to family as she had left?


JT Williams has returned home to Celebration with his daughter to connect with old friends and start a new adventure. When JT and Deklan prepare to open their new art gallery together, the pieces quickly start falling into place.

From a whirlwind romance to a horrific accident, secrets and unexpected surprises, the characters of the Heart of the Family Series are making one final appearance as the last pieces of the puzzle are revealed, and the Montenegro children are once again reunited.



**Only .99cents!!**


Stacy Eaton is a USA Today Bestselling author and began her writing career in October of 2010. Stacy took early retirement from law enforcement after over fifteen years of service in 2016 due to a second serious concusion. Her last three years on the job were in investigations and crime scene investigation. She now writes full-time.


Stacy resides in southeastern Pennsylvania with her husband, who works in law enforcement, and her teen daughter. Stacy also has a son who is currently serving in the United States Navy. She is also very involved in Domestic Violence Awareness and served on the Board of Directors for her local Domestic Violence Center for three years.

Stacy writes a variety of genre's, but mostly romance. She enjoys writing real-life stories that people can relate too with real-life problems, emotions, and solutions.

Her favorites: Classic cars, photography, Disney, music, coffee and her favorite sweatshirt that says, "You are dangerously close to getting killed in my next novel."






Follow the tour HERE for exclusive content and a giveaway!