Tag Archives: romance

Giveaway – Betting on Sin by Maria Ann Green @missmariaann @XpressoTours

Posted on by

.

Betting on Sin
Maria Ann Green
Publication date: June 26th 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Greta has been here before. Like, literally. She was just in this Las Vegas penthouse a couple months ago. Back then she was meeting Finn, the handsome bachelor looking for love, on The Lock—the most popular reality dating TV show around. But when she was here last time she was dumped, and went home alone instead of engaged. Life sucks sometimes.

But, other times, that same life has a beautiful way of showing you why it sucked so hard before – so you can appreciate what comes next even more. Because now Greta is the next lucky bachelorette to have thirty or so men worshiping her while she breaks up with them one at a time. It’s weird to be recognized in public, and even weirder to have so many dudes fighting over her. Actually after just a couple days it’s kind of exhausting, especially when she’d rather send all but a couple of them home. Be careful what you wish for, right?

Throughout the whirlwind Greta spends more time with her personal cameraman, Oliver, than she does on Trysts with the guys she’s supposed to be falling in love with. And the more time she spends with Oliver the less she wants to spend with anyone else. Anyone. Even the guys here for her. It gets worse too. The fact that he’s behind the scenes instead of on the big screen…it’s not the only problem. He also has a girlfriend. And that’s a line Greta won’t cross. But she can’t stop wishing she’d met him before all of this craziness.

Will Greta get her head together long enough to focus on following the rules of the show, or will she screw up this second shot at love too?

*Content Warning: sex, alcohol use, and language*

If you like reality dating TV shows, romances with steam and heart, female leads with no time for conflict or bullshit, and redheads, then Betting On Sin might be your next favorite book. It has plenty of awkward moments, friends to lovers, and promises the most dramatic season finale yet. It’ll keep you up way too late, reading just one more chapter all night.

Goodreads / Amazon

—

EXCERPT:

I watch as his eyes widen, and he bites his bottom lip for a moment. And I watch as he sits still. I watch him…not backing away, not stopping me from what we both know I’m doing.

I close my eyes, too scared of the rejection I know is coming.

Call me a coward, I don’t care anymore.

I close my eyes and hover in front of his face, waiting. I want to go the rest of the way; I want to so badly, I can feel the need of it prickling all over. But I don’t. I cant.

Not yet.

Instead, I wait for him to show me somehow, tell me, that this is what he wants too.

His hands find mine then, his fingers moving to intertwine with mine, and he leans forward. It’s just an inch. It’s not the rest of the way to me, doesn’t close the whole distance.

But it’s enough.

It’s enough to show me that we’re in this together. That I haven’t made everything up in my mind. That he wants me too.

So I go for it. I close the last bit of space between us until my lips crash into his. And it’s like…I don’t know how to describe it. It’s like nothing I’ve ever felt before.

Even though it’s only a kiss, nothing else.

But it feels like home.

Like what I’ve been waiting for my whole life.

Like nothing in the universe has been this right.

Author Bio:

Maria lives in Minnesota despite the frozen winters. Actually, she prefers snow drifts and icicles over summer and all that sweat running everywhere. She lives with her husband and little family, which includes a couple lazy cats who make great lap warmers. You can usually find her whishing that she lived in a secret cabin in the woods where she could be a hermit reading and writing all of the time. Instead she lives the suburban life where she pretends to her neighbors and the other moms around that she doesn’t swear like a sailor, have hidden tattoos, and love a good glass bottle of wine. She absolutely believes in unicorns and ghosts and hopes vampires and monsters are real too. She’s a coffee-in-the-morning and wine-in-the-evening kind of person, preferably with a nap in between. Maria prefers cats over dogs, books over people, and late nights over early mornings. She probably shouldn’t talk to anyone until she’s had her first cup of coffee. And if you ever want to hang out with her, you’ll have to be game for a horror movie or just a quick run to target for two (hundred) little things. Also, you couldn’t pay her to be in her twenties again; Thirties is where it’s at. She’s a creative, mouthy, introverted, proud bisexual, highly-sensitive INFJ, Slytherpuff, dork with a sweet-tooth.

Maria devours books, reading mostly in bed or listening to audio books in the car. Writing has been one of her passions for pretty much her whole life. So creativity is a necessity for her, always. After working in the mental health field for almost a decade, she’s now living her dream as a stay-at-home writer, kiddo wrangler, professional snuggler, and constantly-tired-person. When it comes to her writing, she specializes in dark and twisted thrillers or gritty, angsty contemporary romances. But no matter the genre, she always prefers writing deeply flawed characters with dysfunctional relationships. She’s pretty sure the whole “unlikable character” thing is a conspiracy because every character she loves have been labeled this way. Ridiculous. And because of this, she’s pretty much found it impossible to write anything without at least a little mayhem.

Maria was once told she painted with her words, and that phrase stuck with her – because writing really is an art, and good stories are true masterpieces. She’s always trying to grow and improve in her craft, shooting for a masterpiece of her own someday. And she plans to write forever because writing gives Maria the ability to disappear into new worlds and create people within twisting plots, all from the comfort of her couch. She will always believe that though not every story is for her, and her stories aren’t for everyone, every story has a reader.

Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub / Newsletter


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

XBTBanner1

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Lots To Share for Aftermath of Secrets by Cate Beauman Release @CateBeauman

Posted on by

.

Cate Beauman’s Aftermath Of Secrets Release Celebration!

  • AFTERMATH OF SECRETS
  • The Carter Island Trilogy, Book 2
  • RELEASE DATE:  June 4, 2020

MY REVIEW

Aftermath by Cate Beauman is Book II of the Charter Island series and picks up where book one left off, though it is Molly and Brad’s turn to be in the spotlight. I don’t know why Aftermath fell a little flat, unless it was because I was blown away by Secrets in the Glass and read it immediately after, and it didn’t grab me, like the first one. Could it be because I wasn’t as invested in the characters and their outcome, like I was with Callie and Nate?

One drunken night had ruined Molly and Brad’s lifelong friendship. Molly, Brad, and Molly’s brother, nate, had been like the Three Musketeers. They both missed it, though they didn’t know how to fix it. With romantic suspense a lot comes down to communication. Who would make the first move?

When the characters mentioned watching Friends reruns, I thought, isn’t Friends always on cable somewhere. LOL I watch them all the time. I love little touches like this that make it easy to relate to moments in the characters lives.

Molly is easy going, but she is a tomboy and not shy about saying what she thinks. I love Molly thoughts about fashion…sneakers, jeans and a sweat shirt. And makeup? What’s that? She is the opposite of Callie and I think that’s why they make such great friends. Sounds like someone I could be friends with too. They can fill in the blanks and help navigate some of their troubles, all while building a friendship.

Molly’s sister, Gwen, is the opposite when it comes to fashion. I love when she is dressing her for a New Year’s ball and she looks in the mirror, all glammed up, and says,”Holy crap.” I busted out laughing. Been there, done that.

Brad’s brother, Jordan, appeared, I thought his timing highly suspicious and Brad is leery.

I knew a shitstorm was brewing, it’s just, what kind of shit storm will it be.

I have read a lot of Cate Beauman’s books and love them. I’m not sure what happened with Aftermath. The beginning seemed a little choppy. I was already invested in the characters and wanted the best for Molly and Brad, but, for me, it never reached the level of Secrets in the Glass. I would recommend reading Secrets in the Glass first and feel Aftermath keeps Carter Island on the map.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Aftermath by Cate Beauman.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

BOOK DESCRIPTION: 

When The Secrets Of The Past Threaten To Destroy The Future…

Boston’s Most Eligible Bachelor has it all: good looks, a great career, and plenty of wealth and prestige. But Bradley Sanderson’s charmed life quickly falls apart when scandal rocks his famous family. Arrests have been made; the media circus has begun, and Brad’s been tasked with the daunting chore of restoring the Sandersons’ good name. Moving back to Carter Island and picking up the pieces hasn’t been easy, especially when the one person he needs the most won’t give him the time of day.

Bakery owner and island resident Molly Carter is loyal to her core, but that doesn’t mean Brad’s homecoming hasn’t left her torn. Brad’s darkest days aren’t lost on Molly, but reaching out to her lifelong friend isn’t so simple when she’s forced to guard her heart. Everything changed when she woke up alone after their sexy summer night.

The complications keep coming when Brad’s long-lost brother shows up in town, bringing the remnants of his checkered past with him. Forgiveness and redemption are possible for all, until new secrets come to light that may have dire consequences.

*A contemporary romance with twists of mystery and suspense

BUY LINKS

Reviews & Endorsements:

5 Stars! “I’m a big sucker for a good love story, especially one that has drama. Aftermath Of Secrets by Cate Beauman provided both in a beautiful way. I was swept in by the characters, their wants, and desires.”  -Shannon Winings, Readers’ Favorite Book Awards

EXCERPT

“So, what now? The tree’s officially decorated. It’s just you, me, hot chocolate, and…a movie?”

“Scrabble,” Brad decided. His family wasn’t going to ruin one more moment of his night.

Molly’s left brow winged up again. “Scrabble?”

He nodded. “By the Christmas tree—something we’ve never done before. I didn’t get a chance to kick your ass after Thanksgiving dinner this year.”

She flashed him one of the grins that lit up her face and made his pulse race. Damn, she was spectacular. “I’ve kicked your ass the last two years in a row, which is odd because didn’t you go to Harvard?”

He laughed, rolling his eyes at the ceiling. “You’ve gotta come up with something else.”

“But it was Harvard, right? And Harvard Medical School after that?”

“Yeah, it was both of the Harvards.” He reached out, tugging gently on her hair. “Let’s do this, brat.”

She pulled the game out of the basket beneath the coffee table. “Oh, let’s indeed.”

They brought their mugs and plate of treats with them as they moved to lie on their stomachs across from one another and set up the game under the lights of the tree.

He selected his preliminary tile and grinned when he drew a letter A and Molly a G. “Looks like I go first.” He drew his seven tiles and let out a hoot as he studied his selection. “And here we go.” He laid out quit in the center of the board. “That looks like fourteen points.”

She glared as she pulled her tiles and looked at her pieces. “Beginner’s luck.”

He sent her a mischievous smile. “We’ll see.”

Molly beamed. “Got one.” She laid out an S, L, and T.

His brow shot up. “Slut?”

“And a double word score for eight points. Don’t be jealous.”

“I’m not. First move, and I’m winning.”

“For now, but it’s early days, Ivy League. Early days.”

He laughed as she did. Christmas tree decorating, Scrabble, and plenty of smack talk with Molls. Her five nights of fun idea was turning out to be the ultimate gift.

ALSO PART OF THE CARTER ISLAND NOVELS SERIES

Secrets Hidden In The Glass (Carter Island, #1)
  • SECRETS HIDDEN IN THE GLASS
  • The Carter Island Novels, Book 1

MY REVIEW

Secrets Hidden in the Glass is a looooong book and I have a lot to say. Once I started, I only put it down to eat, use the facilities, and sleep. The characters quickly became my friends and I went on one hell of a ride, filled with danger and suspense. It has so many elements I love in a book, my page and a half of notes is going to have to be severely edited.

Callie desperately needed a vacation and felt the magical affects of the island her first day there. She was in desperate need of sleep and it found her as soon as she sat down. She awoke more refreshed than she had felt for months.

She had already met the sheriff and, like the island, she felt an immediate attraction when he poked his head out from under the sink he was fixing in the home she was renting. He felt the attraction too and, seeing he was her landlord and neighbor, felt he would have many opportunities to get to know her better.

Callie is an artist, working in stained glass, and fame has not been kind to her. She prefers spending her time working on her art to hobnobbing with those who want a piece of her. She built a very high wall to protect herself.

Nate slowly dries the mortar that holds the wall,allowing it to fall and the light, along with her emotions were coming out in a slow way, relaxing in the small moments of getting to know someone. She steps outside herself not knowing why, just that it felt right. Their romance is a slow build with many uncertainties and danger.

The island life was what she needed. The people are real, easy going and not overbearing, even though they know she is famous, though she has no idea they know and is surprised by it when she finds out. All this reminds me soooo much of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.

Callie is relaxed, happy, but knowing Cate Beauman this is foreplay for the danger lurking in the background. I keep waiting and waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop. The slow, subtle buildup is spent getting to know everyone, including the dark memories that put a bullseye on Callie. It does get hot and heavy, but not in the ‘I like you, let’s do it” manner.

I am soooo curious how she came to be abandoned at four years old. She has all the issues that go along with it. That explains why she holds people at a distance.

...love and attachment meant fear and pain for Callie.

When Callie’s adopted mom told Nate that as a child she would get up in the night and sleep in front of the door so she would know if they tried to leave her, it broke my heart. It’s the little details that Cate Beauman adds to the story that allows me to SEE what is happening.

“It crossed my mind to knock him out a couple of times, but then I would have needed to arrest myself…” says Nate.

Be prepared for tears, laughter, passion, danger, and hours of nonstop reading, because Secrets Hidden in the Glass by Cate Beauman is the complete package. I am BLOWN AWAY.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Secrets Hidden in the Glass by Cate Beauman.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

BOOK DESCRIPTION

The secrets of the past are always closer than we think…

Stained glass artist Callie Davis is in desperate need of a vacation. Burnt out and on the edge of a nervous breakdown, she’s fleeing the pressures of her career and is taking refuge on Massachusetts’ tiny Carter Island. Callie yearns for long, lazy days and pretty walks on the beach—blessed solitude and an escape from the complications of her life. Then she bumps into gorgeous Nate Carter and everything changes.

Sheriff Nathan Carter couldn’t be happier now that the height of the summer season has finally come and gone. After four endless months, tourists have packed their bags and headed for the mainland. The quiet days of autumn are about to befall the town—the way Nate and his fellow Sandersonians like it best.

But nothing ends up quite the way Nate expects when he meets the beautiful blonde with the big blue eyes. Callie’s pretty smiles hide secrets—deep, dark mysteries that could cost them both their lives if they continue digging into the past and cross a killer’s path.

*A contemporary romance with twists of mystery and suspense

Buy Links

Reviews and Endorsements:

2018 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner

Readers’ Favorite Five Star Book Designation

“Great character’s, fantastic plot, it is a book to sink into. You feel the magic of the island…” Amazon Verified Review

 “Even throughout the nail-biting scenes, and moments of terrible sadness, you feel the rise of love sneaking back into the picture.” Amazon Verified Review

  • Amazon Rating: 4.5/5
  • Goodreads Rating: 4.4/5

ABOUT CATE BEAUMAN

Cate Beauman is the multi-award-winning, international bestselling author of The Bodyguards of L.A. County series and the Carter Island Novels. She is known for her full-length, action-packed romantic suspense and contemporary stories.

Cate’s novels have been named Readers’ Favorite Five Star books and have won the Booksellers’ Best Award, Maggie Award for Excellence, the Holt Medallion Award, two-time Aspen Gold Medal, two-time Readers’ Favorite International Gold Medal, three-time Readers’ Favorite International Silver Medal, and the Readers’ Crown Award.

Cate makes her home in New Hampshire with her family and their St. Bernards, Bear and Jack.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

MY REVIEWS FOR CATE BEAUMAN

The Bodyguards of LA County Series (all the books can stand alone)

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I’m an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Forget Me Not by Lawna Mackie @lawnamackie #romanticsuspense

Posted on by

.

Preorder price $2.99. Due for release 6.19.20.

Forget Me Not by Lawna Mackie has a beautiful cover to go with the wonderful story inside.

Forget Me Not by [Lawna Mackie]

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Pippin had been snatched by her mentally ill father. It’s a miracle, and thanks to Agent Matt Lalor, that she is alive today. Even Monty, his dog, had known that fate was calling.

My heart jumped out of my chest when Matt bade Monty to FIND Pippen…and he jumped. Great writing. That had me racing through the pages, and, even though I felt I knew where the journey would end, I was looking forward to the ride.

Ten years later…and Pippin returns home. It’s time to visit the past and put it behind her…forever. Yeah. Right. I don’t think that’s going to happen.

Matt Laylor is known as a cold fish, a loner, a recluse, a hard man.

I loved spending time with Vallor on Snow Lake, as he taught Pippin the fine art of ice fishing. I love a book that brings memories roaring back. I remember those huts on the frozen lake, like a small city on the ice, that appears and disappears at nature’s whim.

Lydia is Pippin’s editor for the mystery series she has been writing, and when she comes to town the action knows no limits. I knew she would add some good times…and maybe some bad times…to the equation. She has a very strong personality, but she’s one of those kind of people that make your life a richer place if she is in it.

I laughed out loud when she reached the cabin. I could see it playing out like a scene in a movie.

Levi, may be a bit slow, but he has a big heart. He comes and goes throughout the novel and I am worried what Lawna Mackie has in store for him. He is so sweet. She couldn’t kill him off, could she? At this point, every time I see his name, I feel a sense of impending doom, like he has a part to play and I don’t want anything bad to happen to him.

James? Chance?

I didn’t spot the villain right away. He sure has a lot of patience, waiting in the shadows for THAT moment.

Yes there were a few teary eyed moments. I even felt a Pretty Woman moment adding some good feels, which we always want in a romance…don’t we?

Predictable? Sure. Suspenseful moments? You bet. Laughs and love? For sure.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Forget Me Not by Lawna Mackie.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

AMAZON SYNOPSIS

He was dead…or so she thought.

At the age of twelve, Pippin Bartlett, is abducted by her mentally ill father who goes on a killing rampage. Fortunately she is rescued outside the small town of Snow Lake, Manitoba by ex-sniper and CSIS Agent Matt Lalor, who shoots and reportedly kills the man although the body is never recovered.

Fast-forward ten years and we find Pippin writing successful novels in New York under the alias of Avery Woods. Her words help lessen the impact of the terror she lived through. That is until a series of fan letters arrive. And not just from any fan, but one who sounds a lot like her father and is determined to finish the failed job from ten years ago.

Matt Lalor has secrets of his own. A career that ended badly and one he wishes to forget. He lives his life in a remote cabin in Snow Lake where, whenever possible, he avoids people. With two notable exceptions he mostly succeeds. The first is the day he is required to rescue a twelve-year old girl. Never missing a shot he believes whole-heartedly the man is dead. The second is the day twenty-two year old Pippin drives into a snowbank on his property to turn his world upside down. She’s being hunted by a killer for a second time, and Matt refuses to let harm come to her. What he doesn’t expect is for the fearless and sassy beautiful young woman to capture his heart in the process.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lawna Mackie

Lawna Mackie was born in Jasper, Alberta. After finishing high school and post secondary she moved to Calgary, Alberta, married her husband and settled in the small town of Didsbury, Alberta.

Lawna would tell you that a lot of her creativity comes from her mother, who could design and build, just about anything. Her mother never lacked the talent for hand-making toys. “She always amazed me. My brother and I were never bored because she made us flutes, toy cars, and even parallel bars in the trees,” she explains.

Her other creative inspiration comes from her husband Jeff, and the many adventures they have had. It was on one particular trip to British Columbia, when she stopped at the Enchanted Forrest that the fairy tale world called to her to write a story.

Along with the love she has for her husband and family, is the deep admiration and compassion she has for animals. “They bring so much joy and inspiration to my life I don’t know how I would ever live without them,” she says. Alaskan Malamutes are near and dear to her heart. With one Malamute, one Bichon Shih Tzu, one farm cat and a Bengal, her house is never quiet.

Lawna writes contemporary romance and paranormals. One fan writes, “Lawna’s books are well-written and are impossibly good! The scenes are unexpected and very creative. I highly recommend her books!”

Website  /  Twitter  /  Facebook  /  Instagram

MY LAWNA MACKIE REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway – Bait n’ Witch by Abigail Owen @AOwenBooks @XpressoTours

Posted on by

.

Bait N’ Witch
Abigail Owen
(Brimstone Inc. #3)
Published by: Entangled: Amara
Publication date: June 15th 2020
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Rowan McAuliffe has been hiding most of her life. Secretly trained in her powers by an unusual source, she’d been taught not to trust anyone. Especially other witches. However, after she was forced to perform a hateful act against her will, she now hides from the Covens Syndicate and their judgement.

Greyson Masters is the Syndicate’s best hunter. On top of the danger of his job, Greyson is trying to raise his triplet daughters alone, budding new witches who display an alarming combined power no one understands. Too bad he doesn’t have a clue how to deal with them.

Until Rowan walks in and the chaos settles for the first time in…well, ever.

Little does Greyson realize that his new nanny is the very witch he is hunting, and she’s been hiding right under his nose this whole time.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play

—

EXCERPT:

Her gaze dropped to his mouth, and tension filled the spaces inside him like a curtain of electricity. Awareness, impossible to not call what it was.

Rowan snatched her gaze away, and his head cleared enough for the realization to seep in that he hadn’t smiled, truly smiled, since his wife’s death. The thought struck hard and he rubbed at a spot on his chest as his mind transitioned from turned on, to shock, to aggravated at himself in the space of seconds, left buzzing with emotion either way.

Pulling his own gaze away, he cleared his throat. He shouldn’t be letting his nanny affect him this way. “I should’ve guessed Delilah would send me someone more than capable.”

“I don’t know about that,” she muttered under her breath. “So all of it was a test. The burnt dinner?”

Greyson grimaced. “Yes.”

“The girl’s running away?”

He nodded.

“What about their fight this morning?”

Another grimace. “That was real.”

“And your attitude?”

He frowned. “What attitude?”

She peered at him for a long moment, and Greyson got the uneasy impression she found him wanting somehow.

“Never mind,” she murmured. Was she placating him?

“Are the schedule and the expectations of me the same?” she asked.

“Yes.” What was wrong with his schedule?

Her mouth pursed, but she nodded. “Fine.”

“So you’ll stay?” Oddly, Greyson found himself holding his breath for her response. An hour in her company, surrounded by her wildflower and honey scent, and part of him wanted her to stay. So unlike him, he brushed that wayward feeling aside with irritation and waited for her response.

She sighed. “I don’t have a choice.”

The words, or maybe the way she said them, triggered instinct honed over years of being a hunter. “What does that mean?”

A strong emotion flashed in her eyes. If he had to guess, he would’ve said panic, but the expression was gone so quickly he couldn’t be sure.

Then she offered a sweet smile. “It means you clearly need help. So, yes, I’ll stay.”

Greyson levered to his feet. He needed help, did he? “I’ll be in my room if you need me. Good night, Rowan.” Her name felt strange on his lips. Right and wrong at the same time.

“Mr. Masters—” She stopped him at the door, and he swung to face her, eyebrows raised in question.

She didn’t bother to get up. “Don’t test me like that again.”

Or what?

“Remember…observations can go two ways.”

Did she just imply she was observing him? Before he could snap out a question, she stood and turned off the TV. “Good night.”

Greyson headed back upstairs, coming to terms with a rare experience. He’d been effectively dismissed by a woman who happened to be his girls’ nanny. Most women rushed to please him. Rowan practically sprinted in the opposite direction.

Bigger question…why did her contrary reaction turn him on?

Author Bio:

Multi-award-winning paranormal romance author, Abigail Owen, loves plots that move hot and fast, feisty heroines with sass, alpha heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of sexy shifters! Other titles include wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, spreadsheet lover, Dr. Seuss quoter, eMBA, organizational guru, Texan, Aggie, and chocoholic.

Abigail grew up consuming books and exploring the world through her writing. She attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing). However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it.

Abigail currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own personal hero (who she totally married!) and their two children, who are growing up way too fast.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Newsletter / Pinterest / Bookbub


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

XBTBanner1

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway – False Start by Kelly St Laurent @XpressoTours @authorstlaurent

Posted on by

.

False Start Fairy Tale
Kelly St-Laurent
Publication date: June 9th 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Adèle Villeneuve is attempting the impossible. At twenty-four she’s opened an events company in her small French village, which at last count has a population of 1501. Even her parents tried to stop her. But Adèle has a plan. Or, at least she did.

Then the Reniers returned to town.

Aside from the dilapidated chateau that’s sat in ruin for the past forty years, Saint-Germain is known for one other thing: a bitter feud between the Reniers and the Villeneuves that has gone on for so long no one remembers how it started. It’s practically folklore, a hatred so deep it ended with the Reniers leaving France back in the eighties, never to be seen or heard from again.

Until now.

With the feud reignited, Adèle’s quiet life is upended. Even more so when she finds out that the Reniers are not only refurbishing the chateau but also opening a competing events company. When Finn Renier, the alluring son of her father’s enemy, offers her a truce that could save her business, she makes a decision that goes against her family, a choice that changes everything.

As she finds herself falling for the one person she’s not supposed to, secrets and lies become entangled, a dangerous truth threatening to be revealed.

Because Finn isn’t all that he seems.

And the Reniers didn’t just return to Saint-Germain for a fresh start.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

“How about a drink?”

I stare at him, certain that he’s joking. “A drink?”

“Yeah.”

He says it with such confidence. I can’t imagine what it’s like to walk around with that level of self-assurance. “I can’t have a drink with you.”

“Why not? You did last Friday.”

“You showed up at my table. Uninvited, I might add. And that was in Laval. My papa’s office is right over there and he would disown me if he saw me speaking with you, let alone having a drink with you.”

He watches me closely. “Do you always do what your dad wants?”

“No.” The moment I say it I have my doubts.

“So, have a drink with me.”

“Sure,” I say sarcastically. “We’ll go into the café where Gloria’s only known me all my life. I’m sure she won’t tell Papa.”

A subtle hint of annoyance crosses those cover model features of his. “Are you serious about not being seen in public with me?”

“Are you serious in not realizing why?” I glance around, worried that we’ve been talking too long. Saint-Germain’s gossips have eyes everywhere.

“Adèle, it’s just a drink. I’m not asking you to marry me.”

My mind conjures up an image of him in a suit, standing at an altar, watching me, teary-eyed as I walk down the aisle. Appalled at my disturbing, traitorous thoughts, I get to the point. “Our families are at war.”

“Should I be sharpening my sword?” he asks. “Or will it be pistols at dawn?”

Both those words are far too phallic for my liking. “Surely you have something better to do, like repair your dilapidated château so you can put me out of business.”

“The workers start next week.”

“Well…” I have no comeback to that.

“If you won’t drink with me, will you at least take a walk with me?”

“Why?” I ask, confused.

“Because I’m new to town. Aren’t you supposed to be friendly to newcomers?”

“There are plenty of other people you could ask,” I tell him.

He chuckles at that. “As far as I can see, there are two other people my age in Saint-Germain. You and your cousin.”

“Then ask her,” I say.

“I’m asking you.”

My heart does an unmistakeable flutter, proving itself to be as traitorous as my thoughts. I realize I need to be blunt. “The only way you could ever get me to drink with you is if it was to toast your family’s departure from Saint-Germain.”

He moves even closer. “We’re not going anywhere.”

“Then I suppose you’ll have to get used to drinking alone.”

The air between us thickens, his eyes glancing at my lips. For a fleeting second I think he might kiss me. For a horrifying moment, I think I want him to. But then it passes, like temporary psychosis. Still, a worrying realization persists.

I cannot trust myself around Finn Renier.

Author Bio:

From the moment when she believed that the worlds inside the television were real, Kelly St-Laurent has run away with her imagination.

Born in one of the most beautiful corners of the planet, she spent her childhood inspired by the mountains and oceans of New Zealand, constantly wondering about the places beyond the horizon. At age nineteen she decided to find out and hopped a plane to Canada. And, so began her love affair with the Great White North, that has come to be her second home.

Prior to writing her first novel in 2016, Kelly worked as a production coordinator in visual effects where she got to help bring fairies, dragons and monsters to life.

Kelly currently lives in Montreal with her husband Alex and their Shetland Sheepdog Bucky. When she isn’t writing, she’s often found re-watching her favorite films with a wine in hand.

She still believes the world inside her television is real.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

XBTBanner1

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Dangerous & Stolen Memories by Amanda Siegrist @amanda_siegrist

Posted on by

Today I have two of Amanda Siegrist’s novels to share, Dangerous Memories and Stolen Memories. I, especially fell for the Seth and Pepper characters. Pepper spoke to me and I listened. Each book spotlights a romantic couple, while keeping us updated on the rest of the gang.

Dangerous Memories

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

In Book I of the Lucky Town novel series, Escaping Memories by Amanda Siegrist, we met Logan and Aubrey. Now, I am excited to meet Danny and Kat.

I have loved spending time with this tight knit, yet dysfunctional group of friends and family. But, what is normal? I think we all have our own definition. They have been through some traumatic events and struggle to overcome the lingering fears and nightmares.

Danny’s sister, Aubrey, had been kidnapped. Even though they got her back, that doesn’t mean danger doesn’t seek them out. This time, his love interest, Kat, is the target.

Amanda Siegrist puts her characters through some perilous times, but she loves a happy ending. She just makes them take a twisted path to get there.

I love romantic suspense. The danger and love make my heart beat a little faster. I love seeing characters put through hell, but come out the other side, happy and, somewhat, healthy. What is life without someone special?

I immediately began reading Book 3, Stolen Memories, and if you are looking for love, I highly recommend Amanda Siegrist’s work.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Dangerous Memories by Amanda Siegrist.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
3 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

From USA Today bestselling author Amanda Siegrist comes an intense romantic suspense that will make you swoon and hold you on the edge-of-your-seat until the very end.

Has a new evil arrived, or an old terror returned?

Agent Danny O’Rourke only wants one thing. His sister, Aubrey, to come home. He couldn’t save her from being taken, but the least he can do is help her through her turmoil. Except one thing is standing in his way—the Caldwell family. He wants to hate Kat Caldwell the most, but no matter how hard he tries, he doesn’t hate her. He wants her. So badly. When he starts connecting the dots in his latest murder case, all pointing to Kat as the next victim, he’ll do everything in his power to keep her safe. He won’t fail her like he failed his sister. The closer he gets to the truth, the more he realizes he might be all wrong in his assumptions. He already lost his heart to her, but he won’t lose her to a killer.

The entire Lucky Town Novel series: (Each book can be read as a standalone.)
Escaping Memories (Book 1): Logan & Aubrey
Dangerous Memories (Book 2): Danny & Kat

Stolen Memories

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Stolen Memories is Book 3 of the Lucky Town series by Amanda Siegrist. I really wanted to learn Seth’s story and be along for the ride as he finds his way to love…and it is not an easy journey.

Seth never got over his sister’s kidnapping. He felt he should have been there to save her. He feels betrayed by his best friend, Evan. He feels he is keeping secrets and turns his back on him. Will he find out what he is hiding? Can they repair their friendship? I understand Seth’s position, but I really hope they can work it out. His life is work, sleep, repeat and people need more than that.

Pepper came to town to fill the vacancy at the police station, since Derek left, which causes problems of its own. She comes across as a cold, uncaring person, but that is because she refuses to let anyone into her life. She has a secret and I can hardly wait to find out what it is.

When Seth went to her house the first time, he was so sweet and funny and cute.

Pepper and Seth make for a fantastic story. I fell for her character. I found it easy to relate to her and as the romance heated up, so did the danger.

I kept feeling something was coming, but Amanda made me wait, and wait, and when it came, it was so not what I was expecting. WOW, Amanda. I love that, even though I know romantic suspense is filled with angst and danger, you still managed to surprise me in a fabulous way.

I can definitely recommend this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Stolen Memories by Amanda Siegrist.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

From USA Today bestselling author Amanda Siegrist comes an intense romantic suspense that will make you swoon and hold you on the edge-of-your-seat until the very end.

You can run, but you can’t hide…from your problems.

As the baby of the family, Seth’s got the Youngest Child Syndrome down pat. Except, he doesn’t want to act like a spoiled brat and cause problems everywhere he goes. He needs to start by talking out his issues with his best friend, Evan—until he can’t. Evan’s gone missing, his boss murdered. Evan might be a liar—something Seth hasn’t forgiven him for—but he’s not a murderer. Life’s about to get messier when his brother asks him to find Evan with help from the new deputy. Pepper’s got a feisty attitude, a don’t-mess-with-me persona, and the beauty of a goddess. If he’s not careful, he might fall in love. But Seth suspects Pepper’s lying about something, too. And lying is an unforgivable offense.

The entire Lucky Town Novel series: (Each book can be read as a standalone.)
Escaping Memories (Book 1): Logan & Aubrey
Dangerous Memories (Book 2): Danny & Kat
Stolen Memories (Book 3): Seth & Pepper

ABOUT AMANDA SIEGRIST

Amanda Siegrist

Love! Gimme some love and heaps of romance. I have a sappy heart that just loves two people meeting, going through the cycles of a relationship, and ultimately, falling in love. Give me a good book like that and I’m a happy camper:)

I write contemporary and romantic suspense, but I am partial to suspense. I just love a good mystery.

Besides writing, I love baking, crafts, and baseball…oh, and meeting new people. *smiles*

Website  /  Twitter  /  Facebook

MY AMANDA SIEGRIST REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway & Excerpt – Bad Boys Don’t Make Good Boyfriends @XpressoTours @MelASmithAuthor

Posted on by

.

Bad Boys Don’t Make Good Boyfriends
Melanie A. Smith
(Life Lessons, #2)
Publication date: May 19th 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

From best-selling author Melanie A. Smith comes the second book in a new series of steamy contemporary medical romance standalone novels about life lessons that break all the rules.

Even when you know better, sometimes it’s simply too tempting…

Hospital work isn’t for the faint of heart. Becca Dillon knows that firsthand, having worked as a medical assistant in the cardiac unit at Rutherford Hospital for longer than she cares to think about. What she does care to think about is having fun, gossip, and … guys. Her favorite of the three. And why stick to one, when you can sample them all?

That’s exactly her plan when a workplace crush on a mysterious bad-boy orderly unexpectedly takes a very steamy turn. But Vincent DeMarco turns out to be nothing like she expected, and before she knows it, she’s falling hard and fast. She wants him in ways she’s never wanted anyone before, but there’s something he’s keeping from her. Something that’s holding him back. And Becca is going to find out what.

Even though she knows that bad boys don’t make good boyfriends, he seems like he might be so much more. Will her quest unlock the truth behind who he really is? Or will it end their relationship for good? Either way, ready or not, Becca’s world is about to change.

Goodreads / Amazon


EXCERPT

I slip silently off the couch and tiptoe toward the door. A glance out the peephole shows me a shock of dark hair and a leather jacket that instantly raises my hackles. I slip the chain off and open the door, my indignation purposely on full display.

“Vincent,” I hiss, and his dark eyes snap up to meet mine. “What the fuck are you doing here?”

He runs a hand through his hair, his eyes tired. But he still looks like sex and sin. Bastard.

“I need to talk to you,” he says, sounding as tired as he looks.

I slip out the front door, letting it rest against the frame behind me and folding my arms over my chest as I glare up at him. “Well, I don’t need to talk to you,” I whisper-hiss. “How do you even know where I live?”

“Harper,” he says with a shrug, his voice low. “And why are we whispering?”

I roll my eyes. “Sasha’s asleep on my couch,” I reply, jerking my head back toward the inside of the apartment. “And I’m going to fucking kill Harper.”

“Don’t — I snatched your info off her phone when she wasn’t paying attention. She really needs to use a passcode,” he says. “So can we go inside and talk, or what? I’d really rather not do this out here.”

I raise my eyebrows. “I’m sorry, was I talking to myself a second ago? I’ve got nothing to say to you,” I reiterate.

He raises an eyebrow in return. “What happened to thinking about it?” he asks.

“Oh, I thought about it,” I assure him. “Not interested.”

A smirk settles on his gorgeous lips. “Yeah, well, as much as I doubt that that’s really true, I’ve been doing some thinking too,” he says.

I scoff a laugh. “I hope you didn’t hurt yourself,” I reply.

“Mmm, see, that right there,” he says, taking a step toward me with a glint in his eye that’s half smolder, half warning. “You wouldn’t be angry if you didn’t feel anything.”

He stops inches shy of me, and I instinctively pull away. But my back hits the doorframe. And there’s nowhere to go as he stares intently down at me.

“I didn’t say I didn’t feel anything. I said I’m not interested in doing anything about it,” I insist. But my voice sounds small and unsure. I try to tell myself it’s just the physical effect being so close to him has on me. But staring up into his eyes has a way of stripping me bare. The rawness in his gaze is impossible to hide from.

Author Bio:

Melanie A. Smith is the best-selling author of The Safeguarded Heart Series and other contemporary romance fiction. Originally from upstate New York, she spent most of her childhood in the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to Los Angeles for college. After that, she spent almost fifteen years in the Seattle Area, and now lives in the Dallas-Fort Worth area of Texas with her family.

A voracious reader and lifelong writer, Melanie’s writing began at a young age with short stories and poetry. Having completed a bachelor of science in electrical engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles, and a master’s in business administration at the University of Washington, her writing abilities were mainly utilized for technical documents as a lead engineer for the Boeing Company, where she worked for ten years.

After shifting careers to domestic engineering and property management in 2015, she eventually found a balance where she was able to return to writing fiction.

Melanie is also a Mensan and enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and driving with the windows down and the stereo cranked up loud.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

XBTBanner1

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’s talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Books From The Backlog – Rick Chesler, Angela Scott, Elena Aitken #booksfromthebacklog

Posted on by

.

Books from the Backlog is a fun way to feature some of those neglected books sitting on your bookshelf unread.  If you are anything like me, you might be surprised by some of the unread books hiding in your stacks.

If you would like to join in, swing by Carole’s Random Life in Books.

I have three I am going to share today. Hope you find something that looks good to you.

Kidnapped (Tara Shores, #2)

Amazon / Audiobook / Goodreads

GOODREADS BLURB

A priceless biotechnology, an FBI agent, and an unspeakable act of familial betrayal collide in a tropical kidnapping more twisted than a DNA double helix. When a renowned scientist with a solution for global warming is kidnapped at sea, FBI Special Agent Tara Shores must unravel a high-tech trail of S.O.S. messages encoded into the DNA of living cells. As each decoded message brings Tara nearer to the missing genius, it also takes her farther from help than she ever thought possible.

Rating: 4.00  ·  71 ratings  ·  26 reviews

I added Kidnapped by Rick Chesler on 9.29.12. There is more than one cover, but I love this one. Just looking at it makes me want to read it. I think there will be plenty of thrills and chills, which I thrive on. How about you? What’s your favorite genre?

Desert Rice (Desert, #1)

Amazon / Audiobook / Goodreads

GOODREADS BLURB

Samantha Jean Haggert is a beautiful twelve-year-old girl—but no one knows it. All they see is an awkward boy in a baseball cap and baggy pants. Sam’s not thrilled with the idea of hiding her identity, but it’s all part of her older brother’s plan to keep Sam safe from male attention and hidden from the law. Fifteen-year-old Jacob will stop at nothing to protect his sister, including concealing the death of the one person who should have protected them in the first place—their mother.

Sam and Jacob try to outrun their past by stealing the family car and traveling from West Virginia to Arizona, but the adult world proves mighty difficult to navigate, especially for two kids on their own. Trusting adults has never been an option; no adult has ever given them a good reason. But when Sam meets “Jesus”—who smells an awful lot like a horse—in the park, life takes a different turn. He saved her once, and may be willing to save Sam and her brother again, if only they admit what took place that fateful day in West Virginia. The problem? Sam doesn’t remember, and Jacob isn’t talking.

Ratings: 4.32  ·  164 ratings  ·  68 reviews

I added this to Goodreads on 9.30.12 and picked it up on an Amazon free day on 12.5.15. I have read her Zombie West series and LOVED IT, so to see a free book of hers and grabbing it was a no brainer.

Hidden Gifts (Castle Mountain Lodge, #2)

Amazon / Audiobook / Goodreads

GOODREADS BLURB

Bo’s always known that to be a successful hiking guide at the beautiful Castle Mountain Lodge, you have to flirt with the ladies-but never get too close; have a penchant for wild adventures-but know when to pull away; and never have any ties holding you back.

And his plan was working fine…until Ella, the child he didn’t know he had appears in his life.

Morgan’s always known what she wanted out of life but when the doctor’s crippling diagnosis changes everything, she knows she needs a fresh start. Maybe changing her career and throwing herself into a totally new lifestyle at the Lodge is exactly what she needs?

And it might have worked too…

Bo knows he needs Morgan’s help to reach Ella, but will she be willing to give up the new life she thought she wanted? And can either of them let down their guard long enough to recognize that all they really need is right in front of them, in Ella…and each other.

Rating: 3.93  ·  641 ratings  ·  50 reviews

I have seen Elena Aitken’s name around and sometimes an easy reading romance hits the spot. I won this book back on 10.1.12.

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway – The Run Around by Bernadette Franklin @XpressoTours

Posted on by

.

The Run Around
Bernadette Franklin
Publication date: April 28th 2020
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Arranging a wedding for her brother and a five-time thoroughbride tests Hope’s skills and patience. She’d believed the vows would be the most dangerous part of the ceremony, but a baseball to the head during the photography session proves her wrong and lands her in the sights of her brother’s best friend, Fredrick.

He wants her to plan his wedding.

She wants to be his bride.

Diving into the treacherous world of wedding planning, Hope keeps her word and arranges the vows for the one man she believes she could love. He doesn’t know how much she cherishes him and his friendship.

What she doesn’t know lands her in the heart of a royal mess.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play

—

EXCERPT:

A sensible woman would’ve been delighted to be her future sister-in-law’s maid of honor, as it implied cordial relationships or some sort of bullshit like that. I knew better.

I made an excellent scapegoat.

As the wedding party’s weakest link, everyone expected me to trip on my dress, maybe break an ankle along with my neck, or spill the entire wine fountain onto the floor. My brother claimed he loved me, but I believed he’d been the one to spread the rumor I was the world’s clumsiest woman.

When I secured my revenge, it would be sweet.

But first, I needed to survive my brother’s wedding without being responsible for a single hiccup. Playing to my brother’s misconceptions, I’d spent months tripping over nothing on purpose so I could transform myself into the image of traditional beauty and grace.

I’d even lost twenty pounds so my dress would fit.

The wedding would be a disaster, but I would emerge from the chaos smelling like roses, red wine, and garlic bread. Honestly, I doubted the wedding would make it to the reception.

Some weddings had bridezillas. We had a thoroughbride, and if she got it into her head to run, I wished my brother the best of luck catching her before she fled from the church. My proposal to have the wedding on a yacht, where my brother’s thoroughbride couldn’t escape, hadn’t earned me points with anyone.

The bride hated the ocean.

My brother was smart enough to catch onto my implication.

It wasn’t my fault Amy wasn’t exactly the most reliable woman in the world when it came to marriage. Once was a fluke. Twice was a trend. Five incidents of running from the wedding was evidence the thoroughbride would strike again, and my dear old brother would be saddled with the fifty thousand dollar bill, as he refused to believe Amy would run out on him.

Oh, no. Amy would never run out on him.

Author Bio:

Bernadette Franklin is a figment of imagination owned and operated by two cats, a few plants, and a human.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Amazon / Newsletter


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

XBTBanner1

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!