#NetGalley Book Review: Patience for Christmas: A Holiday Novella

This is an entertaining historical Christmas novella by an author I really like.
Patience for Christmas: A Holiday Novella
by Grace Burrowes

File Size: 440 KB
Print Length: 113 pages
Publisher: Forever Yours (December 18, 2018)
ASIN: B07CRJ2QVP
Genre: Historical Romance, Holiday, Regency
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

A friendly holiday competition turns steamy in this Regency romance novella from the New York Times bestselling author of My One and Only Duke.
Previously published in Virtues of Christmas.
Advice columnist Patience Friendly's relationship with her stubborn, overbearing publisher, Dougal MacHugh, is anything but cordial. Dougal challenges Patience to take on a rival columnist in a holiday advice-a-thon, and sparks fly clear up to the mistletoe hanging from every rafter. Will Patience follow the practical guidance of her head or the passionate advice of her heart?

Review:
Patience is a determined young woman supporting herself by writing an advise column. A past betrayal by a young man has left her cautious of men and a natural champion for women. Patience’s columns have been getting a rival opinion from Professor Pennypacker.

Her publisher, Scottish, stubborn and overbearing Dougal MacHugh, challenges Patience to take on twelve days of advice against her rival. It would mean extra income for the publisher and the Patience too, even if it will cut into other activities.

Dougal sets out to work side by side with Patience to help choose the letters and get the columns completed. They banter with their opinions growing closer and closer while spending long hours working together. But Dougal has a secret that could cause a major backfire.

I totally enjoyed these feisty characters and the love that blossomed between them. The secret (easily guessed) is revealed to the reader long before it is inevitably revealed to Patience. The tension builds as the passion develops between the couple and we wait to see how Patience will respond to Dougal’s secret.

I enjoy Ms. Burrowes' writing style and this novella didn’t disappoint as I was thoroughly entertained. I recommend this as a quick, delightful Christmas romance. I recommend this author to readers who enjoy good historical romance with some heat but not too steamy.

Source: NetGalley 2018. This qualifies for 2018 NetGalley Challenge.

Book Review and Giveaways: Fringe Benefits (The Ladies Who Lunch) by Sandy James

This is fine writing and a good romance but certain aspects don’t suit my tastes.
Fringe Benefits (The Ladies Who Lunch)
by Sandy James

• File Size: 1246 KB
• Print Length: 300 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (April 21, 2015)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00RTY0X7K

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 (see review for specifics on rating)

Book Description
Publication Date: April 21, 2015
When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. High school teacher Danielle Bradshaw deserves a happily ever after, and the Ladies Who Lunch are determined to deliver Mr. Right.
HOT FOR TEACHER
As the new head of the English department, Dani doesn't have much time for anything but lesson planning and literature. Romance-or even sex? Forget about it. But then the principal introduces her to last-minute hire Nate Ryan. Finding time to mentor a new teacher won't be easy, especially when his incredible body and equally disarming charisma are enough to make her heart skip a beat . . .
Nate may be fresh out of school, but he's confident in his teaching skills-and in his feelings for Dani. But while she's everything he's ever wanted, he knows his place on her staff-and his age-may be problematic for his sexy boss. How can he convince her to ignore the gossip mill currently in full swing in the teacher's lounge and surrender to what's meant to be?
"Sweet, endearing and delightful...Sometimes you just need that heartfelt, hometown romance and Fringe Benefits hit the spot." ~ Beth, Tome Tender, 5 stars

Review:
Danielle is the last of the Ladies Who Lunch to settle down with Mr. Right. She is a 32 year old school teacher who has achieved the head of the English Department through dedication and planning. Dani has a tendency towards control and she had her last day before school started all planned out until the new teacher arrived. Her principal calls her to the office, introduces her to the gorgeous hunk, Nate, and turns him over for Dani to prepare him for the next day.

Nate is excited to land his first teaching position and although he is confident in his skills he is flustered at having only one day to get his room and lessons prepared. He is very pleased that Dani is able to help him as he is smitten at first sight and glad to spend time getting to know her. Nate may be younger but he has his first love, broken-heart behind him and is ready to go for what he wants – which is Dani. He just has to figure out how to convince her to get over the age and ‘boss’ issues and gain her trust so she can loosen up her controls. Moving into her basement apartment gives him opportunities to woe her to his side.

Unfortunately Dani has other major concerns that will have to be addressed sooner or later. And
Nate’s ex-girlfriend makes an unexpected play to rekindle their relationship which adds one more obstacle to his relationship with Dani.

I liked the naturalness of the primary characters, Dani and Nate. The chemistry is hot and the issues are real to life. Dani’s friends, the Ladies Who Lunch, and their husbands make a nice support system and Nate’s mother, stepfather and grandpa add some interference as good secondary characters. I enjoy Ms. James writing style which makes for smooth, easy and quick reading.

My disappointment with this book was two fold. The book, especially the beginning, is liberally peppered with unnecessary words that I consider swear words. I know they have grown increasingly acceptable but I don’t like them and it effects my reading pleasure. The other issue is that the sex scenes are fairly graphic. They are done in a loving situation but by the fourth or fifth one I just skipped those pages as I wasn’t interested in the details of their bed sport.

I have enjoyed several of Ms. James’ books in the past and I looked at my review of Sealing the Deal which did not note these concerns although I did say the encounters were "bold". If the author and her editors have decided that her books need more spice through swear words and graphic sex then I guess I will have to take her off my reading list which is too bad. I am sure many readers won’t be bothered by these issues and will really enjoy the otherwise warm (I wouldn't term this as "sweet") and well-written romance. The story and romance deserve a 4.0 or better but the 3.75 rating reflects my reaction of the language and detailed sex.

I received this title from Hachette/Forever for an honest review as part of blog tour blitz . This qualifies for NetGalley Challenge.

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About the author:

Sandy James lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis with her husband. She's a high school social studies teacher who especially loves psychology and United States history. Since she and her husband own a small stable of harness racehorses, they often spend time together at the two Indiana racetracks.

Social Media Links:

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Goodreads

Excerpt:

     This will be a great story to tell the kids one day.     Why that ridiculous thought kept tumbling through Nate’s head was beyond him. But it did.
     Your mom and I got locked in a supply closet together. That’s when we decided to start dating.
     There was a stack of papers they’d used to play what seemed like a million games of tic-tac-toe, which had been followed by hangman. Over an hour had passed, and there was no sign of the custodian.
     Funny, but he no longer minded losing all that time to get things ready for the first day of school. Instead, he found himself drawn to his pretty, witty boss.
     He recognized her perfume. Angel. Once, he’d gone to the trouble of picking a perfume he thought was the perfect scent and bought his fiancée what the salesman called a “recruitment set.” The bundle of Angel products had everything from the perfume in a star-shaped bottle to body lotion.
     Kat had hated it.
     Obviously Dani liked it as much as he did. Everything about her appealed to him and—Jesus have mercy. She was his boss. So why did he keep forgetting that?
     “My legs are getting stiff.” She struggled to stand, groping for one of the shelves. A hiss fell from her lips. “S---.”
     The pain on her face hit Nate hard, and he grabbed her arm to help steady her. “What’s wrong?”
     “Cramp. Leg cramp.” She leaned heavily on him as she got to her feet and immediately stuck out her right leg, pointing and flexing her foot. “Damn, that smarts.”
     “Where?” He didn’t want to start pawing her leg, but he wanted to help.
     “Calf.” Dani’s face tightened into a grimace again.
     Nate eased down on one knee and started rubbing her leg.
     “Nice knot you’ve got there.”
     “I think I’m dehydrated.” As he kept working on the knot, she flexed and extended her foot. “Left my water in my room.”
     “Yeah, well, neither of us expected to be here so long.” The muscle relaxed under his kneading fingers. “Getting better?”
     “Much.”
     So why couldn’t he stop touching her? When it dawned on him that he wanted to trail his fingers up her leg, to her slender thigh and beyond, he slowly stood. Her eyes were locked with his, and tension rose between them as he gently put his hands on her waist, easing her forward.
     Her head cocked just enough to show that she would allow him to kiss her. With a smile, he lowered his face to hers. With a loud rattle of the lock, the door suddenly swung open, and the sixty-something custodian stared at them wide-eyed.
     “What in the hell are you two doing?”

THE BOTTOM LINE by Sandy James (May 6, 2014; Forever Yours E-Book; The Ladies Who Lunch Book #1)

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. Surviving a failed marriage and an illness that almost takes her life, high school teacher Mallory Hamilton needs the Ladies Who Lunch more than ever . . . 

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SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED by Sandy James (July 1, 2014; Forever Yours E-Book; The Ladies Who Lunch Book #2)

When life gets tough and love is hard to find, four friends take their troubles to lunch. High school teacher Juliana Kelley tells the Ladies Who Lunch that her life needs an overhaul . . . and gets a whole lot more than she wished for.

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SEALING THE DEAL by Sandy James (November 4, 2014; Forever Yours E-Book; The Ladies Who Lunch Book #3)

After losing her sister, Bethany Rogers needs a shoulder to lean on more than ever-though she never expects that shoulder to belong to her new boss . . . 

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GIVEAWAY ONE: RAFFLECOPTER

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GIVEAWAY TWO:

In addition to the Rafflecopter giveaway I get to give One Winner at this blog
an ecopy of Fringe Benefits 
from the publisher through NetGalley.

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on this review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S Website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open Worldwide - whoever can receive ebook through NetGalley.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) May 2, 2015.
Winners are asked to respond, within 72 hours, by the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War) by Stacy Henrie

This is a charming historical romance novella.

A Christmas Hope (Of Love and War)
by Stacy Henrie

• File Size: 331 KB
• Print Length: 133 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (December 2, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00M7D0E2M

Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 2, 2014
In this special holiday novella, Stacy Henrie returns to the World War I setting of her Of Love and War series for a heartwarming read that's perfect for the Christmas season.
TIS THE SEASON FOR SECOND CHANCES
Having experienced the heartache of unrequited love, Maria Schmitt desperately seeks a new life. Landing a position as a clerk in a Sioux City bank is just what she needs to get started on her journey toward healing. But a dashing stranger soon puts her job-and her heart-in jeopardy.
Saving lives was all Dale Emerson ever wanted to do . . . until a fateful day in France shattered his career as a surgeon. He lost everything that mattered, and the last thing he wants to do is resign himself to a life without medicine working at his uncle's bank. Then he meets Maria, a compassionate woman who can see past his scars to the man he once was-and the man he could be again. With Christmas right around the corner, these two wounded hearts may find that hope and a little holiday cheer are just the ticket to letting go of regrets-and embracing a future full of love and possibility.

Review:
Maria left home heartbroken over an unrequited love. She was looking for a new start and was fortunate to get a position as a bank clerk in Sioux City working under a kind manager. She has worked hard and earned the respect of the people and her work peers. She is intent on not giving her heart again until she is certain her feelings are returned.

Dale Emerson trained as a surgeon and went off to France to help at the war hospitals. He was glad to do his work helping others until bomb schrapnel took out one eye. He is frustrated when he returns home to Sioux City to take over the bank management from his sick Uncle. Dale doesn’t think he has much to offer now that he can no longer serve in the prestigious position of a surgeon.

These two meet at the bank with a misunderstanding to set things on a wrong foot. Slowly a friendship grows but both are tentative. Further misunderstandings and delay in speaking cause conflict that threatens their relationship. Can they reach beyond their past dissapointments, hurts and fears to find a new start together?

This is a sweet, warm story with two very likable and vulnerable characters. The relationship grows naturally, with misunderstandings, fits and starts. I enjoyed the WWI social and war history that the author portrays as the setting to the romance. I also liked the gentle reminders of faith and forgiving one's own mistakes.  This is a quick, easy read and I do recommend this author for lovely, clean, historical romance.

I received this from Forever through NetGalley for an honest review.

Book Review and Giveaway: Home for the Holidays by Rochelle Alers

This is a quick, warm read with two loners who find unexpected love. 
Home for the Holidays
A Cavanaugh Island Novella
by Rochelle Alers

• File Size: 455 KB
• Print Length: 118 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (December 2, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00CO7GIKI

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Christmas Novella
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 2, 2014
This Christmas novella is set in charming, Sanctuary Cove featuring popular characters from Rochelle Alers' bestselling small-town, Cavanaugh Island contemporary romance series.

Love is always in season.
There's no place like home for the holidays, especially for divorced pastry chef Iris Nelson. After escaping an abusive marriage, she's found peace on charming Cavanaugh Island. As the holiday approaches, Iris looks forward to spending it with her newfound best friend's family . . . and their very handsome visitor.
On leave from Afghanistan, Army Master Sergeant Collier Ward is excited to be reunited with his family for Christmas. But the best gift of all may be this warm, beautiful stranger who joins them for the festivities. With his visit coming to an end, Collier can't deny the heat smoldering between them. Yet Iris can't help but wonder if it's just the glow of the season-and one night of passion-or a true miracle of love that will change their lives forever . . .

Review:
Iris suffered through an abusive marriage until her father helped her to escape. After attending cooking classes she moved to the unique community of Sanctuary Cove on Cavanaugh Island. She is helping at a pastry store until she can save enough money to buy a house and set up her own industrial kitchen. Meanwhile she has avoided men instead of risking more trauma.

Collier has come home from Afganistan to spend the holidays with his sister, Tracy, and his niece, Layla. He hasn’t made any plans to settle down as he feels he needs to finish his military service first.

Iris and Collier meet at a night out and he takes her home but leaves as a gentleman when she indicates she isn’t ready to move forward. They are surprised to meet each other again the next day when Collier walks Layla home and Iris is there to watch her after school.

Collier and Iris slowly begin to spend time togther with friends and family. They decide to date while he is home and their friendship grows. Iris realizes that Collier is a service man who will return to duty after the holidays but she doesn’t know that he is suffering from PSTD. Just as they begin to grow truly close, Collier suffers a nightmare, attacking and frightening Iris. Will Collier be willing to seek help and have the nerve to commit to a longer relationship with Iris? Will Iris be able to forgive and give Collier a second chance?

This is a sweet novella. I liked how Iris and Collier met with a good chemical flair. Ms. Alers presents strong characters who manage to fit in the special setting in South Carolina. The romance develops nicely with a little conflict to make it interesting and a lot of family to keep it warm. The sexual encounters are on the steamy side but based on love and respect. The ending seemed a little rushed and I would have enjoyed a bit more. There are yummy recipes shared at the beginning of each chapter which almost made me wish I could cook. This is entertaining as a quick, holiday read and I recommend it to readers who are looking for a quick Christmas romance.

I received this from Hachette through NetGalley for an honest review and to participate in Launch Day Blitz.

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/15MAMwa 

B&N: http://bit.ly/10FJoBS 

iTunes: http://bit.ly/1xigdRZ 

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1xdGb8f 

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/10FJr0y 

About Rochelle Alers

Bestselling author, Rochelle Alers has nearly two million copies of her novels in print. She is also the recipient of numerous awards, including the Gold Pen Award, the Emma Award, Vivian Stephens Award for Excellence in Romance Writing, the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award and the Zora Neale Hurston Literary Award. 

Website

EXCERPT:

     When Collier walked into the apartment earlier that afternoon asking to date her, Iris had felt as if she’d been enveloped in a cocoon with a happiness expiration date stamped on the outside.  Collier would only be around for another couple of weeks and then he’d be gone.  And yet, here he was offering her a chance at… She didn’t want to say love, because falling in love with him wasn’t an option. But trust perhaps. If nothing else, maybe Collier could finally teach her to trust a man without looking for an ulterior motive in his interest.
     “Wait here,” she told him.
     Iris went into her bedroom and retrieved a second set of keys to the apartment, knowing her life was about to change.  She planned to give a man the keys to her sanctuary.
     Iris returned to the living room, reached for Collier’s hand, placed the keys on his palm and closed his fingers over them.  “Yes.”  Going on tiptoe, she kissed his cheek.  “Good night, and thanks for making this Thanksgiving one I’ll remember for a very long time.”
     Collier ran a finger down her nose.  “Good night, babe.  Sleep well.”

EBOOK GIVEAWAY

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on the review, OR

tell me how you feel about Christmas romances.

* This contest is open US/Canada Only.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) December 13, 2014.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after December 13, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaways: Sealing the Deal (The Ladies Who Lunch) by Sandy James

This is a delightful sweet and sensual romance with natural characters.

Sealing the Deal (The Ladies Who Lunch)
by Sandy James

• File Size: 822 KB
• Print Length: 300 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (November 4, 2014)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00IRISK6I

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 4, 2014 
(Forever Yours E-Book; $2.99)
After losing her sister, Bethany Rogers needs a shoulder to lean on more than ever-though she never expects that shoulder to belong to her new boss . . .

Bethany has been in love with Robert Ashford since they were teachers at the same high school. After Robert leaves to start his own construction company, Beth puts her feelings aside to focus on her goals. When she finally lands a gig as a part-time designer, she is shocked to find her new boss is none other than Robert . . . and he's hotter than ever. But Bethany's happiness is short-lived when she receives word that her sister has been killed in combat.

With the success of building homes for one happy family after another, Robert is finally ready to settle down. When Beth is left to care for her nine-month-old niece, Robert can't help but step in. And before long, the trio are inseparable. Yet convincing the cautious, bereaved Beth of letting him in proves difficult-but Robert will give everything he's got for the chance at his own happily ever after.

Review:
Beth is a thirty-two year old teacher who has had a secret crush on her part-time boss, Robert, who used to be a teacher too before he started his own construction company. Beth has worked for Robert by putting the important designing touches on his homes. Beth is a buoyant personality but a lot of her bounce is to hide the insecurities that were ground into her by her critical mother. As a comfortable size 14 woman, Beth is convinced that Robert wouldn’t be interested in her since he plays the field with tall, svelte blondes.

Robert is an independent, successful business man and has come to a point where he is ready to settle down. He has often felt unloved even though he overcame a difficult childhood of stuttering. Robert and Beth have been friends for a number of years but he wishes for more.

Beth’s sister is killed in the service and Beth suddenly has to care for her infant niece, Emma. Robert decides that helping with adorable Emma is a good reason to get closer to Beth. He offers them a new home and hopes that now he will have the courage to show her, if not tell her, how he feels.

Beth and Robert are both fragile and reluctant to risk their hearts by expressing their feelings. They grow closer and even begin a sexual relationship but there is much confusion and misunderstanding regarding their motives. They both think that adopting Emma is the real reason for their own affections. When Emma’s natural father seeks full custody Beth and Robert will need to decide if they can accept each other and stand together or if they will separate without realizing the love they could share.

Ms. James does a wonderful job of developing strong, likable characters and setting out a believable, natural story. She succeeds again in this story and I liked that the lead characters are very natural and not perfect. Emma adds a cuddleable interest and Beth’s three friends, the Ladies who Lunch, are good secondary characters. The romance encounters are sensual and bold with a playful and loving bond, even though their feelings are conflicted. The story is engaging and the writing flows for an easy read.

I have enjoyed reading Ms. James before and will be glad to read more in the future. This book is part of a series and made me want to read the stories for the other friends in the ‘ladies who lunch’ group. I recommend this book and this author to readers who enjoy warm, contemporary romance.

I received this title for blog tour participation and an honest review.

Buy Links:

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Amazon

About the author:
Sandy James lives in a quiet suburb of Indianapolis with her husband. She's a high school social studies teacher who especially loves psychology and United States history. Since she and her husband own a small stable of harness racehorses, they often spend time together at the two Indiana racetracks.

Social Media Links:

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Goodreads

Excerpt:

    “Why does everyone think I can’t raise Emma?”
    “Everyone?”
    She looked so damned forlorn. “Jules. My parents. You.”
    With a shake of his head, he tried to set her straight. “First off, I have never—I repeat never—said you can’t raise Emma. In fact, I think you’re doing a fantastic job with her.” He glanced at the munchkin. “Look at her.” Emma smiled on cue, all tiny teeth and drool. “She’s doing really well with you. What did your parents say?”
    Beth’s pouty lips strongly tempted him to kiss her again. “They told me it might be better to put her up for adoption.”
    “Are you serious?” What kind of grandparents would say something so cruel? How could they even consider giving up their only grandchild?
    “Dead serious. They made such a fuss over how much taking care of her while Tiffany was gone inconvenienced them. I was going to take her this summer, maybe even longer.”
    What did a person say to something like that? “That’s cold.”
    “I know, right? Besides that, my folks are really old-fashioned. They think a child should have both a mom and a dad.” A smile threatened. “I think Tiffany had Emma as a way to piss Mom off. Kind of her way of saying, ‘I’m a single mom. Take that, Carol.’ ”
    “They’re wrong. You know they are.”
    Although she glanced away, he saw the hurt in her eyes. “They’ve never really had a lot of confidence in me.”
    Since his parents always encouraged their gaggle of children to reach for the stars and told them they all had the ability to do just that, he had a hard time picturing what it must have been like to grow up with parents like Beth’s. “Then they’re not too smart, ’cause you’re somebody who deserves their confidence. You’re amazing.”
    Her gaze came back to his, but there was disbelief in her eyes.
    “I mean it, B. Look at all you’ve done at school. Everyone admires you.”
    She gave him a small snort.
    One thing he’d have to do when they lived together was help give her more self-esteem. But he had to convince her to move into this house with him first. “What did our ever-tactful Jules have to say?”
    “It was wrong to tell you she said I wasn’t good with Emma.”
    “She didn’t say that?” Robert asked. He still stood in front of Beth, and now he held both her hands in his. It felt so natural. So right. Like two people in love sharing a conversation.
    But Beth didn’t love him, and he was still pretty mixed up about how he felt about her. That was why he thought she and Emma moving in would be so great. He would have Emma in his life, and he and Beth would have time to share their lives, to see if the kisses and caresses led to—or away from—something special.
    Beth shook her head. “She got weird when I asked if her nanny could watch Emma when I go back to work next week.”
    “You’re going back so soon?”
    This time, she nodded. “I’m out of paid time off.”
    “Why not take a leave of absence?”
    Her laugh was always so sweet to his ears. “ ’Cause I like to eat, and I imagine Emma does, too.”
    “Didn’t Tiffany have life insurance? I thought all soldiers did.”
    “I won’t touch that money. Not unless I absolutely have to. It’s a nest egg for Emma. She can pay for college and maybe even buy her first home with it.”
    The response was pure Beth. Always putting others before herself. She was going to raise that baby on a teacher’s salary, a salary that seldom saw increases. She’d have her work cut out for her being a single mom who got paid diddly-squat.
    “Well, then,” Robert said. “That seals the deal. You move in here. There’s one less expense.” She had to agree. She just had to.
    “I’d pay you rent,” she insisted.
    “The hell you will!”
    She jerked her hands free. “I’m not a charity case, Robert. Emma and I aren’t living in a homeless shelter or anything. I already told you Jules is looking for a house for us.”
    Why had everything he said in this conversation come out wrong? After raking his fingers through his hair, he tried again. “B, p-please. Please move in with me. I want Emma here. I want you here.”
    “Why?”
    A man could only take so much provocation. Her belligerent frown that wouldn’t scare a fly. Her brown eyes that flashed with fire. The way she crossed her arms under her full breasts. Everything about her made him want to kiss her.
    So he did.
    Robert grabbed her hand and tugged Beth into his arms. He stopped when his lips were almost touching hers. “Because of… this.”

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY
(ends 11/12/14 at 23:00 GMT)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/26635ce2122/
a Rafflecopter giveaway

BONUS GIVEAWAY

In addition to the Rafflecopter giveaway I get to give One Winner at this blog an ecopy of Sealing the Deal from the publisher through NetGalley.

ENTRY FORM HERE

(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!

I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)

For 3 Extra Bonus entries comment on this review, OR

visit THE AUTHOR'S Website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open US and Canada Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) November 14, 2014.
Winners are asked to respond, within 72 hours, by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: I'll Be Home For Christmas by Jessica Scott

This is a quick, emotional and earthy romance featuring struggles of a military couple during deployment separation.
I'll Be Home For Christmas
by Jessica Scott 

• File Size: 857 KB
• Print Length: 126 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (November 5, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00DG8ZY9K

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 5, 2013
There's nothing in the world Army Sergeant Vic Carponti loves more than his wife and his country. Smart-mouthed and easy tempered, he takes everything as a joke . . . except his promise to come home to his wife, Nicole, for Christmas. As he prepares to leave for his latest deployment into Iraq, Vic will do everything he can to shield his beautiful, supportive wife from the realities of war . . . and from his own darkest fears.

As a career army wife, Nicole Carponti knows just what to expect from her husband's tour of duty: loneliness, relentless worry, and a seemingly endless countdown until the moment Vic walks through the door again. But when the unthinkable happens, Nicole and Vic's bond is tested like never before and changes everything they believe to be true about the power of love and the simple beauty of being home for the holidays.

Review:
This is a very real, emotional glimpse of a career army romance with its fears, loneliness, misunderstandings and commitment. Nicole and Vic have been married for five years but still struggle with the commitment from each other to see them through the tests of absence during war deployment.

Vic prides himself on helping to boost the morale of his buddies, and his wife, through humor. His superiors don’t always appreciate his sardonic and sometimes irreverent attitude which brings him close to major trouble. Those who know him well know that this is his coping mechanism and they tolerate it. On this deployment Vic has the conflict of wanting to keep his promise to Nicole to be home for Christmas but also wanting to stay with his platoon as they adjust to a new leader after their Sargent, a friend of both Nicole and Vic, is injured.

The story shows some of the real downsides of being separated for long months and how one couple copes. Nicole wants to know what is happening with Vic but doesn’t want him stressed by her possibly worrying. Vic doesn’t want to share the dangers and horrors he goes through, even injuries to friends, so Nicole might not have to dwell on that information and worry more. It seems like a cycle of less than full disclosure and trust to me. It may be naive from my view but I think it takes a strong woman to remain a career army wife and part of that includes knowing what is going on and being able to cope in spite of the dangers. I think this story shows a bit of that message but also shows that it takes each couple finding the best way they can to handle the stress and losses — together.

This is fast paced but is emotional and therefore not necessarily an easy read. The love and sexual aspect is pretty intense and earthy so it may not be comfortable for everyone. The writing is crisp and the characters are well defined, even for a novella. There are supporting characters that appear to have stories destined for their situations too. I’m not sure I would want to read a lot of this type of story but I am glad I read this one and can recommend this story, and the author, to those readers who like emotional trauma with their romances.

I received this title from Forever/Hachette as part of a Launch Day Release Blitz. Check the earlier post today for blitz and Giveaway information.

Book Review: Take Me Back: A Give & Take Novella by Kelli Maine

This is a bit of a ghost story with steamy romance.

Take Me Back: A Give & Take Novella
by Kelli Maine

• File Size: 290 KB
• Print Length: 97 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (June 4, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00CH3DBZY

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: June 4, 2013
In the bestselling tradition of Sylvia Day and E. L. James...

DESIRE THAT CAN'T BE DENIED
Rachael DeSalvo is haunted by the past. She's come home to her beloved Turtle Tear Island, where she looks forward to happy days and bliss-filled nights in the arms of Merrick Rocha. But when she finds a trunk full of old photo albums and handwritten notes, Rachael soon realizes that the island has not given up all its secrets . . .

For long before Rachael and Merrick made Turtle Tear Resort their home, this historic island was a haven for sensual, forbidden affairs. As Rachael and Merrick work to restore the grand hotel to its former glory, they will be caught in the perfect maelstrom of conflict and desire.

"I love the banter between Rachael and Merrick throughout the book..... some steamy scenes that will not leave you disappointed." --The Indie Bookshelf

Review:
I decided to try this novella to see if I might like the series. This story, taking place in the development time of a new relationship between Rachael and Merrick, has an almost gothic setting and feel – probably because of the ghost.

Merrick is apparently a bit older and a suave, experienced business man. He had interviewed Rachael to be project manager for the resort that he is renewing at Turtle Tear Island and the Weston Plantation. Rachael declined the job as it would take her away from her mother but Merrick returned and basically kidnapped her. All that was part of book 1, Taken, but the history was filled in enough in this novella to get the feel for the excitement, yet fragility, of their relationship.

Rachael has become obsessed with a ghost, Ingrid, a woman who lived in the time of the Civil War. Supposedly the ghost had made her wishes known – she wants to be returned from the plantation home to the Turtle Tear property.  She continues to pour over letters and belongings in old trunks to try to find how to bring the ghost back from one property to the other. Merrick is frustrated with her distraction which is pulling her focus away from the 50th year wedding anniversary celebrations that she is supposed to be handling.

Rachael and Merrick have a very intense sexual chemistry but they are still feeling their way to complete trust and commitment in their relationship. Now Merrick feels ignored and betrayed but Rachael also feels betrayed by his withdrawal and refusal to see how important the ghost issue is to her heart. Will this disagreement break the fragile trust they have built?

The story is written in first person which was a bit awkward reading. There is a big focus on the passionate relationship and I would classify this as borderline erotica which  I did not realize when I selected the title. The ghost story was interesting and was a good background for presenting the couple’s relationship problems. They were both stubborn-headed.

The novella is an entertaining, engaging and quick read. Although well written,this was a bit too edgy and therefore not my style. However, others you enjoy a sexy romantic intensity might like to try this series.

I picked this title up from NetGalley.

Book Review: Who Wants to Marry a Cowboy by Abigail Sharpe

This is a fun read that works perfect for summer!
Who Wants to Marry a Cowboy 
by Abigail Sharpe

• File Size: 518 KB
• Print Length: 352 pages
• Publisher: Forever Yours (May 7, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00AG0VO8G

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: May 7, 2013"Charming and witty. Abigail Sharpe will delight you."-- New York Times bestselling author Christie Craig"A rich and rustic tale of family, friendship, and love guaranteed to lasso your heart." -- Jessica Lemmon, author of TEMPTING THE BILLIONAIRE
In the bestselling tradition of Lori Wilde...
SOMETHING BORROWED, SOMEONE NEW . . .
There's nothing florist Ainsley Fairfax won't do to help her sister get the love of her life-even if it means taking her place on a bachelorette weekend at a Wyoming ranch so Cecelia can sail off with the man of her dreams. Ainsley is determined to spend the time keeping her head down and her heart safely tucked away-until an encounter with the ranch's hunky owner gets her heart-and steamy desires-to bloom . . .
Riley Pommer doesn't want to be lassoed into any relationship. But with the family ranch in dire straits, Riley knows his sisters' crazy plan to turn the ranch into the setting for a dating competition-and using Riley as the bait-is the only thing standing between them and foreclosure. But the rules of the game change the instant Riley lays eyes on the spirited Ainsley. Now, as others try to stampede over their love, can Riley prove to Ainsley that true love is a prize worth fighting for?

Review:
Ainsley is stressed by her high society mother trying to foist her onto the starched but ‘oh-so-proper’ Edward. Edward has totally bought into the position of teaming with Ainsley as his practical society wife. He believes that he can manage a life with her and won’t have to worry about the pain that he associates with a passionate love. The thing is--Ainsley doesn’t love Edward and dreams of freedom to pursue expanding her florist shop. On the other hand, her rebellious and free spirit sister, Cecelia, has had a crush on Edward for years. Cecelia has decided to escape their mother by spending a summer week on a Wyoming ‘dude’ ranch as a bachelorette candidate for the handsome cowboy owner.  The girls decide to trade places when their mother books Ainsley on a romantic cruise with Edward.

Riley is the reluctant bachelor who has to entertain a group of bachelorettes. The scheme was his sisters’ idea to increase the income of the ranch and use a dating competition to test the ranch for women to come to a dude ranch destination.

Riley has always played the field and has no intention of settling down just to please his siblings who are struggling with the recent loss of their dad. Ainsley has no plans to fall for a cowboy. She plans to use the time investigating the ranch family green house.

Riley isn’t pleased to have to take several days to entertain eight overly eager women. However, he is quickly intrigued by the one woman who isn’t fawning over him. Ainsley isn’t interested in competing for attention but she has a hard time ignoring the sparks when she gets close to Riley. The other jealous women make nasty innuendos and start suspicious rumors to interfere with the growing relationship between Ainsley and Riley. Edward showing up to claim Ainsley as his fiancee only complicates matters.

This turned out to be a fun story and you sort of get a “two-fer” as you get Ainsley’s romance and Cecelia’s struggles to win over Edward.  The other female candidates make some good characters to dislike as they create conflict.  The writing style is easy and the plot is fun and engaging. Riley has commitment issues while Ainsley has fear of confrontation issues to overcome. Riley’s siblings, a teenage boy and his sisters, are clearly characters who may develop for further stories. This is a good summer read for those who enjoy bachelorette antics and conflicted romance stories.

I received this title from Forever Yours/Hachette for an honest review.