Book Launch with Giveaway! TWO BY TWO by Nicholas Sparks

TWO BY TWO by Nicholas Sparks
(October 4, 2016; Grand Central Publishing; Hardcover; $27.00)

#1 New York Times bestselling author Nicholas Sparks returns with his signature combination of gripping, emotionally resonant storytelling and love overcoming all odds.


At 32, Russell Green has it all: a stunning wife, a lovable 6 year-old daughter, a successful career as an advertising executive and an expansive home in Raleigh. He is living the Dream, and his marriage to the bewitching Vivian is the center of that dream. But underneath the shiny surface of this perfect existence, fault lines are beginning to appear . . . and no one is more surprised than Russ when he finds every aspect of the life he took for granted turned upside down.

In a matter of months, Russ finds himself without a job or wife, caring for his young daughter London while struggling to adapt to a new and baffling reality. Trying to launch his own business while grappling with the demise of his marriage, the only thing he knows for certain is that London must be sheltered from the consequences of these radical changes. Throwing himself into the wilderness of single parenting, Russ embarks on a journey at once terrifying and rewarding - one that will test his abilities and his emotional resources beyond anything he ever imagined.

When a chance encounter with an old flame tempts him to take a chance on love again, he will navigate this new opportunity with trepidation and wonder. But with the loyal support of his parents and his wise older sister Marge, and in the hard-won lessons of fatherhood, Russ will finally come to understand the true nature of unconditional love - that it is a treasure to be bestowed, never earned.

Buy the Book!

Amazon:http://amzn.to/2cEjWre 

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/2d8zfHg 

Kobo: http://bit.ly/2btEy2F 

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Google: http://bit.ly/2dCyJ2V

About the Author:

With over 100 million copies of his books sold, Nicholas Sparks is one of the world's most beloved storytellers. His novels include 12 #1 New York Times bestsellers. All his books have been New York Times and international bestsellers, and were translated into more than 50 languages. Ten Sparks novels have been adapted into major motion pictures, with The Choice coming in February 2016.

Social Media Links:

http://nicholassparks.com/

https://twitter.com/NicholasSparks 

http://facebook.com/NicholasSparks 

Add TWO BY TWO to your shelf on Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2dcDqT0 

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Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Nobody But You (Cedar Ridge) by Jill Shalvis

There are great characters in this light, sexy romance.
Nobody But You (Cedar Ridge)
by Jill Shalvis

File Size: 549 KB
Print Length: 465 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (March 29, 2016)
Publication Date: March 29, 2016
ASIN: B0112T4YJA
Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

SOMETIMES YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN . . .
After an overseas mission goes wrong, Army Special Forces officer Jacob Kincaid knows where he must go to make things right: back home to the tiny town of Cedar Ridge, Colorado. All he needs to scrub away his painful past is fresh mountain air, a lakeside cabin, and quiet solitude. But what he discovers is a gorgeous woman living on a boat at his dock.

Sophie Marren has nowhere else to go. She's broke, intermittently seasick, and fighting a serious attraction to the brooding, dishy, I'm-too-sexy-for-myself guy who's now claiming her dock. Something about Jacob's dark intensity makes her want to tease-and tempt-him beyond measure. Neither one wants to give any ground . . . until they realize the only true home they have is with each other.

Review:
Sophie is recovering from an ugly divorce. She really didn’t want anything from her cheating ex, Lucas, but when the Judge pushed her she claimed the one thing Lucas cared about the most – his boat. It doesn’t matter that she gets seasick and now she has to walk or bus to work and pay mooring fees. She keeps moving at night to docks of abandoned cabins until a gorgeous hunk, Jacob, catches her at the dock of the cabin he just rented.

While trying to resist Jacob, Sophie is working all over town as a temp until she can figure out what to do with her life. She is also trying to dodge Lucas who is a big man lawyer about town.

Meanwhile, Jacob is an alpha military man on bereavement leave that has him wanting to heal his personal life. He has returned home for the first time in nine years to face his twin and his half brothers and sister. Jacob expects to be rejected or to at least have to eat humble pie to get them to agree to let him become part of the family again.

Sophie runs into Jacob a couple of times with a clear chemistry zing each time. They soon agree that it might be safe to have a fling. After all, she is off men – mostly, and he is on temporary leave so he can promise not to fall -- so he thinks. But Jacob has never experienced a sassy, sexy domino like Sophie. And Sophie has never had such a capable man give her encouragement to stand on her own. Together they are combustible! Will Jacob commit to returning to make Cedar Ridge his home? Can he convince Sophia to risk her heart again?

This is full of light, fun dialogue and smokin’ attraction plus. I’d say about fifty percent of the story is sexual interaction between Sophie and Jacob which was fun but not what I want to read so much anymore. Fortunately, there is a strong relational story going on within Jacob’s family that adds to the conflict, love and humor.

This is the third book in the series but worked fine as a stand-alone. The characters are wonderfully real and the whole tone, beyond the insecurities, is warm and affirming. I enjoyed this fast paced read and recommend it to readers who are looking for a quick excursion into a light, sexy romance.

I received this title through NetGalley for an honest review as part of a tour event. This qualifies for NetGalley Challenge and N in Alphabet Soup Challenge.

Buy Links

Amazon: amzn.to/1nJOatw 

B&N: bit.ly/250OcyR 

IndieBound: bit.ly/22gObop 

iTunes: apple.co/1TJDOYH 

GooglePlay: bit.ly/1RKiLPz 

Kobo: bit.ly/1QTy644

About Jill Shalvis
New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Jill’s Social Media:

Website: JillShalvis.com

FB: Facebook.com/jillshalvis

GR: https://www.goodreads.com/JillShalvis

T: @jillshalvis

IG: @jillshalvis

P: https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis/

EXCERPT:

   She eyed the bench a long beat but did eventually sit, perching primly as far from him as she could get and yet still be close enough to grab the bottle.
   Smart woman.
   She took the Scotch and drank. Her eyes watered and she coughed as she handed it to him. With a sigh, she leaned back to study the night sky. Her bared throat was slim and creamy smooth. An unexpected temptation. Remembering the flash of pain and vulnerability she’d unwittingly revealed, and that for whatever reason he’d somehow added to it, he spoke. “I’m sorry.”
   She glanced at him as if she’d never heard a man apologize before in her life. “For…breathing?” she asked. “Having a penis? What?”
   “You were upset because you didn’t know I was a Kincaid.”
   She sighed. “That was just me looking for a reason to be mad at you so I wouldn’t…”
   She bit her lower lip, clearly not wanting to go on.
   But now he had to know. “So you wouldn’t what?”
   “Nothing,” she said. “It’s just that I’m trying to make better choices.”
   “Of which I wouldn’t be one.”
   “It’s not necessarily your fault,” she said. “It’s that you’re a man.”
   “Guilty as charged.”
   “And I’m off men right now.”
   “And on…women?” he asked with admittedly more than a little fascination.
   She rolled her eyes. “I’m on no one, but thank you for proving my point on men.”
   “I get that,” he said. “But being off men doesn’t seem to be making you very happy, or sound like a whole lot of fun.”
   “Maybe I don’t need fun.”
   He understood that. He’d felt the same way since Brett died. “What do you need?” he asked, honestly wanting to know more about her.
   Instead of answering, she reached for the bottle. He waited until she met his gaze before letting go.
   “Nothing,” she said a little too quickly. “Everything’s…perfect.”
   “And your glass is half full,” he said. “So you’ve said.”
   But he didn’t believe her. “How about a game?”
   “I don’t play games.”
   Now, that wasn’t exactly true. Whether she knew it or not, she’d been playing with his head since he’d first laid eyes on her. “Three truths and a lie,” he said.
   She stared at him. “As in you tell me three truths and a lie, and I pick out the lie?”
   “Yes.”
   She considered this. “What do I get if I win?”
   “What do you want?”
   For the briefest of beats, her gaze dropped to his mouth.
   Oh, hell yeah, he thought. Want me…
   “My first boyfriend taught me that game,” she said.
   “What did the winner get?”
   “A kiss.”
   Definitely still playing with his head… “Is that what you want, Sophie? A kiss?”
   Again she stared at his mouth before dropping eye contact and wrapping that eye-stopping pink robe tighter around her body. “Do you?” she asked.
   “Hell yes.”
   Her gaze flew to his.
   “Problem is,” he said conversationally, “if I kissed you, I don’t think I’d be able to stop.”
   Her mouth literally fell open. The pulse at the base of her throat jumped. And she seemed to lose her words.
   He went on. “But you should know, I don’t lose. That means you’ll have to tell me three truths and a lie.” And he’d hopefully get to know more about her.
   She closed her mouth to bite her lower lip in what could’ve been indecision or excitement. Obviously he was hoping for the latter. “But hey, if you’re not sure you can handle losing, we can just forget about it,” he said.
   The challenge lifted her chin and put sparks in her eyes. That’s it, babe. Show me what you’ve got.
   “Bring it,” she said.

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Book Review and Giveaway: Hard to Handle (Love in the Balance) by Jessica Lemmon

This is sweetly charming even with its consistent, building sensuality.

Hard to Handle (Love in the Balance)

by Jessica Lemmon

• File Size: 438 KB
• Print Length: 305 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455573787
• Publisher: Forever (October 1, 2013)
• ASIN: B00AG0VMYM

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Publication Date: October 1, 2013
ONCE BURNED
Sadie Howard never dates a guy more than once-but Fate has other plans for her when it comes to Aiden Downey, the one that got away. Aiden loved her, left her, and broke her heart. Yet suddenly she's bumping into him at every turn, driven to distraction by his wicked grin and rock-hard body. Now she can't resist finishing what they started-as long as she doesn't let herself fall in love . . .

TWICE AS TEMPTING
Aiden Downey threw away the best thing he ever had when he let Sadie go, and now he's determined to win back the woman he's always wanted. Sadie agrees to let him into her life-and her bed-as long as there are no strings attached. But Aiden's not about to make the same mistake again. Can he convince her to take a second chance on a once-in-a-lifetime love?

Review:
Aiden’s mother was suffering from cancer so he didn’t want to tell her about his failed marriage. He was hurt when his wife had an affair with his best friend and business partner. The business failed too and Aiden was really struggling when his mother decided against chemo treatments and in favor of moving to another state for alternative treatments. Aiden had recently met Sadie and was enchanted with her as they shared time and grew closer over several weeks. But he chose to tell Sadie that their new romance was over when he left to help his mother.

Sadie was planning the marriage of her dreams when she was jilted by her fiancé, Trey. Not only did Trey leave her but he married her younger sister who was light and carefree rather than intense and focused like Sadie. Sadie developed a rule of one date only after losing Trey. Then she met Aiden and let her shields drop. She was excited about the chemistry she had with Aiden and the gentle intimacy they had even without sex. Then he ended their blooming relationship leaving her more heartbroken and angry.

A year later Aiden and Sadie are pushed together at his brother’s wedding to her best friend. Then Sadie discovers that Aiden is the new manager of Axle’s local motorcycle shop, an account she has been pursuing for three years. Sadie gets the account which puts her working closely with Aiden who hopes to buy the chain of shops when Axle retires.

Aiden regrets giving up Sadie and would love to get her back in his arms and life. But Sadie remembers the hurt and wants to protect herself even though the chemistry still runs hot between them. Can Aiden gain his dreams of buying the motorcycle shops and also find a way to gain Sadie’s forgiveness, trust and a commitment beyond the short term?

The attraction between Aiden and Sadie begins quickly and builds through the story. Both characters have flaws and insecurities that are realistic. Sadie is particularly annoying with her wanting to protect herself from any pain when life and love just don't work that way.

I was cautious selecting this title to review as I wasn't sure how sexy it would be and I generally prefer contemporary reads with suspense or mystery plots rather than just romance. This story is definitely all romance and the conflict exists around Aiden's desire for a second chance and Sadie's reluctance to take a risk. This read quickly and the sex is sweet though sensually detailed, but not gritty graphic.  I recommend this to readers who enjoy pure romance and especially like second chance stories.

I received this title from Hachette, through NetGalley, for an honest review.

Hachette/Grand Central Station has allowed me to offer one PRINT Copy for 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

visit the author's website and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only for print.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 25, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after April 25, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Christmas in Lucky Harbor by Jill Shalvis

This is a fun package of holiday romance.
Christmas in Lucky Harbor: 
Simply Irresistible/The Sweetest Thing/
Two Bonus Short Stories
by Jill Shalvis

• Series: Lucky Harbor (Book 9)
• Mass Market Paperback: 800 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Omnibus ed edition (September 24, 2013)
• ISBN-10: 1455547530
• ISBN-13: 978-1455547531

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 24, 2013
Love awaits you in Lucky Harbor . . .

Simply Irresistible
After losing her boyfriend and her job, Maddie leaves L.A. to claim her inheritance-a ramshackle inn nestled in the little town of Lucky Harbor, Washington. She sees the potential for a new home and a new career-if she can give the inn the makeover it needs. Enter Jax, a tall, handsome contractor who knows exactly what Maddie needs...

The Sweetest Thing
Helping her sister set up the family inn is just the thing to make Tara forget her ex-husband and focus on her new life. Until she meets a sexy, green-eyed sailor determined to keep her hot, bothered, and in his bed. When her ex reappears, Tara must confront her past and decide what she really wants.

Kissing Santa Claus
NASCAR driver Logan Perrish returns to Lucky Harbor, Washington, with love in his heart and a ring in his pocket. But can Sandy Jansen forget the past and give him a second chance? Or will Logan be spending another Christmas alone?

Under the Mistletoe
There's no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts - and asking for forgiveness.

Simply Irresistible (Previously reviewed at this link.)

The Sweetest Thing
Review:
4.25
Tara has returned to Lucky Harbor to help her sisters and to ‘find herself’ after divorcing Logan, her famous, dashing, race car driver husband. Tara tends to be the controlling, sophisticated and intense sister. She has determined that she needs to take control of her life after a rocky entrance into adulthood and then a high profile marriage where she gave all of herself until she got tired of being alone.

Her rocky teenage summer was spent in Lucky Harbor in a first romance with Ford, who went off to become a world traveling boat racer. Tara was surprised to discover that Ford had returned home and now is owner of the local bar in town. There is history between them that makes them hesitate to get together but the sexual pull still sizzles. Tara doesn’t want a hot re-run of her 17th summer and she isn’t quite ready to think that Ford could commit to something long term.

Logan comes to town to try to win back the love he lost and that gets Ford thinking he doesn’t want to lose Tara now that he has a second chance. As always in the small town of Lucky Harbor the busybodies stick their noses in. The social media buzzes with sneak images of encounters and a poll for which man will win her heart.

The story is fun and steamy. I really liked the warmth between Tara and Ford and Mia entering their lives adds extra complications. The sisters and their beaus add additional interest too. Ms. Shalvis does a nice job of providing characters a reader can root for as they push and pull their way to a happy ending.

Kissing Santa Claus
Review:
4.0
This is a quick novella that brings a happy ending for Logan. It is just short and sassy and a quick, fun read.  Logan had a quick affair with Sandy after Tara chose Ford. Then Logan left town. Now he is returning six months later and Sandy isn't sure she wants to welcome him so easily even if her body responds differently than her head.

I’m not sure how I would have felt about it if I hadn’t gotten to know Logan in The Sweetest Thing. The characters are not deeply developed but there is enough there, with enough story to make it a satisfying nugget.

Under the Mistletoe
Review:
4.25
The reader meets Mia in The Sweetest Thing too. There she was a 17 year old who became infatuated with the local, all around errand boy, Carlos, a good looking young man with attitude. But Carlos stayed home in Lucky Harbor while Mia took off for the adventures of college. Now it is four years later and Mia is hoping her college boyfriend, Nick, will join her at Christmas in Lucky Harbor and meet her family and friends.

Nick grew up in foster homes and learned not to get attached or allow others to get too close. He has  enjoyed his dating time with Mia but hasn’t really even acknowledged them being together as ‘a relationship.’ He hesitates when she invites him home and she determines that he isn’t ready so she leaves without him.

When he shows up in Lucky Harbor he has to face Mia’s family and old boyfriend too. Will Nick be able to get Mia to move past the hurt he caused and allow them a second chance?

This is another quick short story with two sweet characters. I like the personality that Ms. Shalvis gives to Nick as it is a good and realistic blend of lone wolf confidence and vulnerability. This one doesn’t have quite as much heat as the other books which is okay with me.

As a package of two full novels and two shorts this is a great deal. It offers fun reading for those who enjoy contemporary, sassy to sizzling, happy ending romance.

I received this book from Hachette/Grand Central for an honest review.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for my review Copy.

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 Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest; OR tell me about another book by this author that you enjoyed; OR comment on the review.

* This contest is open to U.S. address only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 3, 2014.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after January 3, 2014.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Always on My Mind Feature and Excerpt, Plus #Giveaway: Lucky Harbor Backlist!

ALWAYS ON MY MIND

by Jill Shalvis

Publication Date: September 24, 2013

Genre: Contemporary
ISBN: 978-1-4555-2110-4

Summary:

After dropping out of pastry school and messing up her big break on a reality cooking show, Leah Sullivan needs to accomplish something in her life. But when she returns home to Lucky Harbor, she finds herself distracted by her best friend, Jack Harper. In an effort to cheer up Jack's ailing mother, Dee, Leah tells a little fib - that she and Jack are more than just friends. Soon pretending to be hot-and-heavy with this hunky firefighter feels too real to handle . . .

No-strings attachments suit Jack just fine - perfect for keeping the risk of heartbreak away. But as Jack and Leah break every one of their "just friends" rules, he longs to turn their pretend relationship into something permanent. Do best friends know too much about each other to risk falling in love? Or will Jack and Leah discover something new about each other in a little town called Lucky Harbor?

Author’s Social Networking links:

Blog: http://jillshalvis.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JillShalvis
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JillShalvis
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22370.Jill_Shalvis

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/16bZwGE

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/1aIeV6N
Indiebound: http://bit.ly/16c0lPH

Author Bio:

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

ALWAYS ON MY MIND excerpt:

     He stared at her. “That’s quite a list of shortcomings,” he eventually said. “Is that all?”
     “No.” She shoved her wet hair from her face, though she managed to keep her regal stance, nose firmly in the air at nose-bleed height. “I held back because I didn’t want to be overly rude.”
     He laughed softly. “Don’t hold back, Leah. Let’s hear all of it.”
     “Well, your truck has more sporting goods than a store, you never say you’re sorry, and your girlfriends look like supermodels. I mean, what is that? There’s nothing wrong with real boobs, you know!”
     “I fail to see the problem.”
     She snorted again, and he was starting to feel greatly insulted. “You’re not exactly a walk in the park, Leah.”
     “No?”
     “No. You’re flighty, you live for your every whim, you downplay any real emotion you feel.”
     She hugged herself tight. “Good thing this is all pretend then, isn’t it,” she said softly.
     “Yeah.”
     She was freezing. And hauntingly gorgeous, so damn gorgeous standing there wet and silvery by the moon’s glow, like a goddess. It’s Leah, he had to keep reminding himself. Leah, who’d once beaten him in a marshmallow-eating contest, only to puke all over him. Leah, whose dark-green eyes had a way of telling the world to bite her. Leah, who’d run off on him and left him heartbroken. He took a step into her—for what exactly, he had no idea—and she poked a finger into his chest.
     “God,” she said. “You’re so…” Words apparently failed her, but she let out a sound that managed to perfectly convey how annoying he was.
     “Ditto,” he said, and then grabbed the finger drilling a hole between his pecs and tugged her hard enough that she lost her balance and fell against him.
     He wrapped an arm around her waist, entangling a hand in her wet hair.
     She went still as stone and stared into his eyes. And then lowered her gaze to his mouth.
     Yeah, they were in sync there. Suddenly he couldn’t breathe. Hers caught audibly in her throat, a good sign, he decided. Maybe she wouldn’t knee him in the balls. Testing the waters, he grazed her jawline with his teeth.
     She shivered.
     Then he slid his mouth to the very corner of hers and was rewarded by the clutch of her hands on his shirt. Having her hold on to him like this, like he was her only anchor, sent a bolt of lust straight through him. “Leah,” he murmured, hearing the surprise in his own voice, feeling the heat course through him as he finally—God, finally—covered her mouth with his.
     Her lips parted for him eagerly, and he groaned, drowning in the erotic collision of her hot tongue and chilled, wet body.
     Serious trouble. He was in serious trouble.

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Book Review: Always on My Mind by Jill Shalvis

This is another visit to Lucky Harbor with wonderful characters in denial leading to a sexy romance.

Always on My Mind (A Lucky Harbor Novel)
by Jill Shalvis

• File Size: 455 KB
• Print Length: 352 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (September 24, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00AFHHACO

Genre:Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 24, 2013
"Count on Jill Shalvis for a witty, steamy, unputdownable love story." -- Robyn Carr, New York Times bestselling author of Harvest Moon
THERE'S NOTHING LIKE THE REAL THING
After dropping out of pastry school and messing up her big break on a reality cooking show, Leah Sullivan needs to accomplish something in her life. But when she returns home to Lucky Harbor, she finds herself distracted by her best friend, Jack Harper. In an effort to cheer up Jack's ailing mother, Dee, Leah tells a little fib - that she and Jack are more than just friends. Soon pretending to be hot-and-heavy with this hunky firefighter feels too real to handle . . .
No-strings attachments suit Jack just fine - perfect for keeping the risk of heartbreak away. But as Jack and Leah break every one of their "just friends" rules, he longs to turn their pretend relationship into something permanent. Do best friends know too much about each other to risk falling in love? Or will Jack and Leah discover something new about each other in a little town called Lucky Harbor?

Review:
Leah had a rough childhood with a father who insisted on perfection and belittled her every effort saying she would always fail. As soon as she was old enough Leah got away. She did well in college but dropped out her last semester. She repeated the performance at chef school, fulfilling the predictions that she couldn’t finish anything.

Now Leah has come home to take care of her grandmother’s bakery while her grandmother recovers. The whole town is watching her as she has been the sweetheart of a cooking competition show. Leah is until contract not to reveal the final outcome but everyone expects her to win. She figures that her grandmother will recover and she will escape town before the finale airs.

Now that Leah is home she can spend time with her best friend and confidant, Jack. Jack is a handsome fire chief being chased by most of the women in town. When they were graduating high school Jack almost convinced Leah to be more than friends but just when he was sure they would be together Leah disappeared. Jack’s mother is fighting cancer and in an effort to cheer her Leah announces that she and Jack are dating. This is news to Jack who isn’t sure he wants to risk his emotions with Leah again.

Even though they fight acknowledging their true feelings they can’t resist their passion. Now Leah and Jack dance around each other trying to decide if they should admit that their pretend romance is real.

I really liked these two characters.  Poor Leah has to overcome the failure complex that was instilled by her abusive father. Jack has to be willing to risk changing his job and risk giving his heart. A large part of the book is filled with intimate, sexual encounters. Although I generally prefer more substance than intimate encounters I still enjoyed the conflict and the story beyond the passion as I waited to see how the pair would resolve their situation. This read quickly and I did enjoy it. Although it is part of a series this reads fine as a stand along.

See Tour Giveaway next post!
I received this title from Hachette/Grand Central Publishing for blog tour and an honest review.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Woman He Loved Before by Dorothy Koomson

This is a surprising and intriguing mystery.
The Woman He Loved Before
by Dorothy Koomson

Book length 464 pages
Publisher     Grand Central Publishing (May 14, 2013)
Language     English
ISBN-10     1455507148
ISBN-13     978-1455507146
Genre: Mystery, Contemporary Fiction
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: May 14, 2013
Libby has a nice life with a great job, a gorgeous husband and a big home by the sea. But she's becoming more unsure of Jack's feelings for her - and if he is over the mysterious death of Eve, his first wife.
When fate intervenes in their relationship, Libby decides to find out all she can about the man she hastily married and the seemingly perfect Eve.
Eventually Libby stumbles across some startling truths about Eve. As she begins to unearth more and more devastating secrets, Libby becomes frightened that she too will end up like the first woman Jack loved. . .

Review:
The story opens very cleverly with a prologue of a letter accompanying Eve’s diaries asking that they be burned without being read by presumably the woman ‘who is with Jack now’. The first chapter then places us at an accident scene where Libby is being comforted and extracted from a car. She is badly injured and begins to flash back about how she and Jack met (he was rude and she was contemptuous) and how their courtship resulted.

Libby is a beautiful and smart woman was is comfortable in her career as a beautician even though that wasn't her original dream goal. Jack is gorgeous and most women would jump to have his attention but Libby doesn’t need a man who appears to be looking for a conquest. Yet she is attracted to him and finally falls under his persistent charm.

Libby learns a little about Jack’s first wife, Eve, who was exquisitely beautiful but died in suspicions circumstances. Jack feels that Libby has brought life back to him and he persuades her to marry him. Libby is a bit scared as she is not sure she has Jack’s full love or attention as he hasn’t really gotten over loving Eve.

After Libby returns home from the hospital she is despondent with injuries, including her scarred head and face. She suspects that Jack is keeping a secret and he seems to be more withdrawn. Then she discovers Eve’s diary and even though it says ‘please burn’, how can she resist reading them? What she discovers about Eve’s past is shocking and tragic and will put Libby in danger too. Soon Libby realizes not only Jack’s secret but other secrets that have remained hidden in the family. Can Libby and Jack overcome the past to have a future together?

I was a little slow starting this book as I wasn’t sure if it was a drama or a mystery. However, it caught me by surprise and my attention was engaged right away. There is a subtle suspense that builds throughout the book. The presentation is interesting with chapters rotating from Libby’s view to Jack’s and then adding Eve’s diary entries. The characters are well developed and at first it isn’t clear if Jack is just self centered and moody or if there is more to him.

Eve is a major character through her diary entries and one might easily have conflicting feelings about her. I don’t want to give a spoiler but as a word of caution I will say that the material about Eve’s young life and struggles is a bit sordid. Imagine the negative side of Pretty Woman and worse. 

The story is very well written and, for me, the plot was original, particularly with the engaging presentation. I definitely recommend this to readers who enjoy an intriguing suspense mystery.

I received an ARC from Grand Central/Hachette for an honest review.
I am glad to have a final print copy for giveaway!

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* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on July 19, 2013.
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WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on July 20, 2013.
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Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Barefoot in the Sun by Roxanne St. Claire

This is a strong romance enhanced by a touch of mystery.
Barefoot in the Sun
by Roxanne St. Claire

• Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
• Publisher: Forever (April 30, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 145550825X
• ISBN-13: 978-1455508259

Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: April 30, 2013 | Series: Barefoot Bay (Book 3)
A Barefoot Bay Novel
When running is all you've ever known . . .
Caught between fight and flight, Zoe Tamarin has always picked flight. Since she was rescued from a nightmare childhood by her great-aunt Pasha, they've been on the move, never staying in one place long enough to risk exposing their precarious past. But now that they've reached the sun-baked shores of Barefoot Bay, Zoe may have to stay and fight-for her aunt's life . . . and for a love she ran from years before.
Sometimes the bravest act of all is to stand still.
Oliver Bradbury came to Florida to start over, as both a doctor and a father to his eight-year-old son. He never expected life to hand him a second chance with the woman he lost years ago-but one look at Zoe Tamarin and he knows he'll do whatever it takes to prove that this time, he can be the man she needs. But when demands of family and friendship threaten to shatter their rekindled passion, Oliver must heal Zoe's lifelong wounds with more than hot kisses . . . but will that be enough to keep her from flying off with his heart?

Review:
Zoe is a vibrant young woman who lives with her beloved “great-aunt” Pasha. Zoe was orphaned and facing danger in her early teens when Pasha rescued her. But Pasha and Zoe have lived ‘on the run’ ever since. Any time anyone starts asking questions or gets too close, Pasha moves them on to the next town. That was fine until Zoe fell in love. She decided to tell the truth to Oliver, whom she was head over heels in love with. She conned him into a balloon ride and took the risk of disclosing her past. But the reaction wasn’t good – Oliver wanted her to go to the authorities and straighten things out. When Zoe told Pasha, Pasha panicked and they ran again.

Nine years later Oliver discovers Zoe and Pasha living in Barefoot Bay. The immediate attraction and reaction makes it clear that the extreme feelings between Zoe and Oliver haven’t changed. Circumstances are much different though. Oliver has an 8 year old son with the woman he supposedly left when he first met Zoe. Zoe is relieved to discover that Oliver is divorced and she and Pasha are charmed by the super intelligent Evan.

Pasha is ill with cancer and Oliver is a partner in a clinic that specializes in experimental treatments. Zoe will do anything to get him to accept Pasha as a patient with no insurance and no questions asked. Zoe is willing to risk the pain of heartache for a fling but Oliver isn’t. He doesn’t want his son to be hurt when Zoe leaves and he wants her for life, not just for a fling. What will it take to convince Pasha and Zoe to stop running and take the greatest risks by staying?

Zoe might be a bit flippant and flighty for my tastes but she doesn’t sleep around and maybe that is why she wants to jump Oliver every time she sees him.  The romance is full of conflict and combustible chemistry. Ms. St. Claire is a masterful story teller and the strong, clear writing tone pulled me into the story.  The hints of danger and mystery enhance what might otherwise be just another romance. The college girlfriends who surround Zoe in Barefoot Bay are an interesting group and apparently have their own romance stories with a little intrigue in each. This book, and no doubt the rest of the series, would be great summer reads for anyone who likes strong romance.

Zoe’s gardener friend, Tessa, shares words of wisdom:

Roots don’t strangle if the plant is well tended, my friend. Roots nourish. They provide stability. They make sure the plant doesn’t merely survive, but thrives and grows and produces a fruit or vegetable. Page 171.

I received this book from Forever, division of Grand Central/Hachette, for an honest review.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Review Copy:

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* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on May 31, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on June 1, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Jake (A Wyoming Sky Novel) by R.C. Ryan

This romance, with mystery and family issues, is solid entertainment.

Jake (A Wyoming Sky Novel)
by R.C. Ryan

• Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
• Publisher: Forever (February 26, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1455502448
• ISBN-13: 978-1455502448

Genre: Western, Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: February 26, 2013 | Series: A Wyoming Sky Novel

Wild at Heart . . .
Jake Conway is good with his hands. A veterinarian known for his gentle touch, he's also the most eligible bachelor in Wyoming. But like any wild animal, Jake longs to roam free . . . until a sultry redhead with a smile from here to heaven turns up in town.
When her estranged father dies, Meg Stanford inherits his rustic ranch-and all the painful memories that come with it. She's determined to settle the estate and face down the ghosts of her past. But a series of midnight break-ins have Meg running from the ranch-and into the arms of the sexy cowboy next door. As their passion grows hotter, the attacks grow bolder. Can Jake keep her safe, or will he lose the only woman he's ever loved?

Review:
Meg is a top notch, career-minded attorney from Washington, D.C.. She comes to her childhood home in Paintbrush, Wyoming for the burial of her estranged father and to handle his affairs. In addition to the rustic ranch that she loved as a child she finds a seven year old half brother, Cory. Cory lost his young mother and now he has lost his older, but devoted father. He is reluctant to get close to this strange woman who doesn’t even have proper ranch clothes.

Jake, a gorgeous, veterinarian cowboy, is the remaining bachelor of the three Conway sons who live at the ranch next to Meg’s.  He responds to a phone message to check on Cory’s beloved horse who has an unexplained injury.  Jake is able to soothe Cory along with the horse.

When Meg has to cope with night time break ins and vandalism Jake is soon stopping by to offer protection and support. Meg struggles with why someone would threaten her even as she slowly remembers why she loved the ranch and the father whom she thought abandoned her. Although they know their life-styles are different, concerns and passion draw Meg and Jake together.

The writing is very smooth and cozy.  I was quickly engaged by the likeable characters and the storyline. I was eager to know what was going on and even more eager for Jake to convince Meg that she should stay in Wyoming.  The romance moves along at a nice pace and is heated without getting overly graphic.

There is the fine threat of danger with the mystery that there is more to the background than anyone knows.  I did feel that some of the protective expertise expected of Meg’s professional team was lacking but it played into the story.

There is conflict and warmth provided by Meg’s young, impressionable brother. Then there is the added charm of  Jake’s lively household which consists of his granddad, dad, a housekeeper and a cook who have been with the family a long time, and two brothers with their new brides.

I liked how Ms. Ryan addressed the impact of loss on the characters: by marital separation for Meg, death for Cory and unexplained mystery for the Conway family. There are lessons of forgiveness and moving on to live one’s life fully that include a secondary, sweet romance. I recommend this book to those who enjoy a rich, warm romance that has a solid plot with life issues and a little bit of mystery packaged in good strong writing.

I received this book from Grand Central Publishing, Hachette, Forever division.

The story is set in Wyoming for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge.

 ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR ARC COPY.

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* This contest is open US Only.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 19, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on April 20, 2013.
Winners are asked to respond by email or the linked winners form within 72 hours of the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Double Danger by Dee Davis

This is solid romantic suspense from one of my favorite authors.
Double Danger (An A-Tac Novel)
by Dee Davis

• File Size: 530 KB Print
• Length: 359 pages
  
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 044658293X
• Publisher: Forever (December 18, 2012)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group

Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description Publication Date: December 18, 2012 Ignoring his instincts once cost Simon a vital op-and the life of his best friend, Ryan. Now as escalating, violent attacks hit A-Tac, another person he loves is in danger. Homeland Security agent Jillian Montgomery's investigation has suddenly brought her back into Simon's life, and unless they can learn to trust each other, their dangerous mission will fail. After her husband Ryan's death, Jillian dedicates herself to saving others. She can't afford to be tempted by Simon, even though his every touch reignites the desire they once shared. But in the last desperate minutes before disaster strikes, their second chance at love might be the most lethal trap of all . . .

Review:
Simon is glad to be part of the A-Tac undercover team. He was once a Seal until a leg injury sidelined him. While a Seal he led a mission that resulted in the death of his best friend, Ryan. His guilt and his long time attraction to Ryan’s wife, J.J., has kept him away from her.

Now J.J., as Jillian, shows up as a Homeland Security agent assigned to the A-Tac team to investigate several terrorist suspected attacks. J.J. had fallen in love with Simon back in college but Simon turned away because she was Ryan’s girlfriend. J.J. married Ryan, more as a second choice, only to discover that Ryan had anger control issues. J.J. suffered through an abusive marriage because she had no where else to turn, especially when Simon refused to take her last resort call.  But Ryan died and J.J. reformed herself as Jillian, a strong, self reliant security agent who wouldn’t have to rely on any man.

The chemistry and draw between Simon and Jillian still burns high but he tries to resist out of guilt for the death of Ryan and she resists out of fear of rejection and fear of another violent relationship.  The attacks keep throwing them together in dangerous situations until they finally break down and face their past and fears. Meanwhile the team is feeling like they are one step behind a bomber and a target that they have to figure out before they are too late.

I do enjoy the action and intensity of Dee Davis’ romantic suspense novels. There is always a lot of background activity to add to the romantic conflict and ultimate romantic passion. The writing is well paced. I have to say I felt there was a bit of repetition on this one as it took half of the book before Simon and Jillian finally talked about their past. Still, I enjoyed the whole story.

Although this is a part of a series, it could be read alone. However I enjoy knowing the stories of some of the other team members.  If you like action-packed romantic suspense this is a book you would enjoy and an author you can rely on to deliver!

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Simon's reaction to a stolen kiss:

And yet, truth be told, he wasn't actually sorry he'd done it. She tasted just exactly the way he'd remembered. Her lifts soft and pliant. And if things were different.... Page 119.

Jillian's decision:

So maybe she was being foolish to try to keep him at arm's length. Maybe it was time to let go of the past and grab on to the future. That is if they had one. Page 271.

I received this title, for an honest review, from Forever division of Grand Central Station, Hachette.

This is set in New York for my Where Are You Reading Challenge.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy.

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* This contest is open US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 4, 2013.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on January 5, 2013.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Where Angels Rest by Kate Brady

This is another great romantic suspense from Kate Brady. 
Where Angels Rest
by Kate Brady

• Mass Market Paperback: 464 pages
• Publisher: Forever (November 20, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1455502049
• ISBN-13: 978-1455502042

Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: November 20, 2012
A RACE FOR SALVATION
For the past decade, psychologist Erin Sims has been helping victims of violent crimes move on with life . . . but the one person she can't save is the one who matters most. In only seven days, her brother will be executed for a murder he didn't commit. Convinced she knows the identity of the real killer, Erin is determined to find the man and bring him to justice.

A COUNTDOWN TO DESTRUCTION
Sheriff Nick Mann moved to rural Ohio hoping to forget the tragedies of his past. When Erin shows up in town, bringing scandal and unwanted media attention with her, Nick knows she's trouble. No one believes sleepy Hopewell could harbor a serial killer . . . until residents begin to disappear. Now as Nick untangles the dark secrets plaguing his town, he can't help falling for the beautiful woman with the warm heart and iron will. And, as the days tick by, the truth becomes clear: Erin is hunting a vicious murderer-one whose only escape is to silence her forever.

Review:
Erin has spent the last twelve years trying to prove her brother is an innocent man who was wrongly convicted. She doesn’t care that her own reputation has been tarnished in the process and that the police records passed from one agency to another label her as a zealot and ‘looney’. She believes that the true killer is hiding from justice and she isn’t afraid to get in his face to challenge him...even when that means she is violating a restraining order.

Erin’s efforts at locating the alleged true killer gives her brother a midnight hour reprieve on his execution. She now has one week to get the local authorities to verify the identification of the alleged suspect and provide any additional information that supports her claims that John Huggins is hiding as Jack Calloway, who may have been near the scene of a similar murder.

Nick Mann is a sheriff who left the high intensity of detective work in Los Angeles to return to his home town in rural Ohio. He thought he could hide from the tragedy, and scandal, of his past by serving in a small community. Now Erin Sims is bringing notoriety to his small town and he doesn’t like it.  Yet, as he begins to check out Erin’s allegations, he discovers that there are dark lies already hiding in his town. As more missing persons are uncovered, the pressure increases   and soon local residents are missing and dead bodies begin to fall into the investigation.

Erin suffers several direct attacks as well as a ransacking of her hotel room. Nick’s protective instincts kick in and he determines that not all is as it appears in the reports he has received. It is a race to get enough details to stay the execution for Erin’s brother while also keeping her alive and trying to uncover a serial killer.

I really enjoyed the intensity of this story. There is lots of action and suspense from the outset. Ms. Brady weaves in scenes from the view of “the Anglemaker” as he/she handles the victims and plots to get the next one in line. The clues provided could lead to one of several suspects so the reader is kept guessing as the danger builds. Erin and Nick are both characters with personal baggage and high intensity. Although they butt heads, they also manage to bring a certain awareness of hope to each other.

There is some rough language in the book - not a surprise in a story of a serial killer and cops. I was able to skip over it as the plot kept the momentum going until the end. The romance is mostly sensual tension which is well done and doesn’t detract from the suspense. This is a fast paced read filled with tension.  If you like romantic suspense I highly recommend Kate Brady as an author you should read.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Nick has a reputation in his town:

“...Nick whipped Hopewell into shape and when the election came up, no one ran against him. You know his campaign motto was?”
    Erin shook her head.
    “Not on Nick’s watch. It wasn’t something he came up with; it was just what everyone said about him.”  Page 153.

Erin is surprised to learn Nick knew of the false negative medical history in her files:

...Her breath went shallow. One heartbeat at a time, she realized she didn’t have to convince him of anything. “Why did you believe me?”
    Those pale eyes met hers. “I didn’t wanna have the hots for a loon.” Page 212.

I received an ARC copy of this book from Forever div of Hachette.

This story is starts in Starke, Florida but takes place primarily in Hopewell, Ohio for my Where Are You Reading Challenge.
TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy.

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* This contest is open US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on December 7, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 8, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and Giveaway: Three-Day Town by Margaret Maron

This is a solid, entertaining, mystery read.
Three Day Town
by Margaret Maron

• Hardcover: 288 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; 1 edition (November 21, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446555789
• ISBN-13: 978-0446555784

    Genre: Mystery
    My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

 

Book Description

Series: Deborah Knott Mysteries | Publication Date: November 21, 2011

Judge Deborah Knott and Sheriff's Deputy Dwight Bryant are on a train to New York, finally on a honeymoon after a year of marriage. January in New York might not be the perfect time to visit, but they'll take it. The trip is a Christmas present from Dwight's sister-in-law, who arranged for them to stay in an Upper West Side apartment for one week. While in New York, Deborah has been asked to deliver a package to Lt. Sigrid Harald of the NYPD. Sigrid offers to swing by the apartment to pick up the box, but when they reach the apartment, they discover that it is missing and the doorman has been murdered. Despite their best efforts to enjoy a blissful getaway, Deborah and Dwight soon find that they've teamed up with Sigrid and her team to catch the killer before he strikes again.

Review:
Deborah Knott and her “new” husband, Dwight Bryant, are a Judge and Deputy Sheriff, respectively, from North Carolina.  They head to New York for a January honeymoon, carrying with them a package to deliver for a distant relative.  They soon meet up with some artsy and theatrical people in the apartment building where they are staying as guests. They are invited across the hall to a party and during the event they discover the very scandalous package has been taken from their unit.  And unfortunately something else has been left behind.

I liked the main characters, Deborah, Dwight and Lt. Sigrid Harald.  They each have strengths and weaknesses that reflect realism. Deborah might have been the most surprising to me as she seems pretty laid back for a Judge, even for a Southerner. But I am glad she wasn’t an arrogant character as she wouldn’t have been as enjoyable.

Sigrid is the most aloof of the main characters but she has to maintain a certain persona to maintain authority and respect.  She is brusque and efficient. There didn't seem to be a great report between Sigrid and Dwight but that doesn't seem unusual since this wasn't Dwight's jurisdiction. Other characters and suspects are quirky and/or fit as interesting additions to the layout of the story.

I liked how the clues and suspects developed with each day bringing a little more information and another suspect to consider.  Things were going really well until Deborah did what no self-respecting law enforcement officer (or protagonist) should do... she goes out alone... without her phone... and without waking her husband. WHAT! We all know you don’t go check on a noise or go to the basement alone when two bodies have been found, one person is missing and there is a murderer on the loose! Something bad will happen... and of course it does.

Other than that obvious “don’t go there” moment the mystery had a very easy and enjoyable flow. Deborah helps her nephew back home with his own little mystery through email and phone contact that adds to the action of the story. There is a light, maybe not so subtle, humor. For example - I got a kick out of this passage (p 36.):

Elliott Buntrock crossed the room in long strides and tried to close it [open French doors].
“Somehing’s caught in the hinge,” he said and pulled the door toward him to see what it was.
A shoe.
With a foot in it.
Connected to the leg of someone slumped against the railing of the icy marble balcony.

This is the first time I have read this author and I am sure I would enjoy more mysteries from this series.

Thank you to Grand Central Publishing division of Hachette for this book to read and review.

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The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on January 7. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Zero Day by David Baldacci

Another solid Baldacci thriller.

Zero Day

by David Baldacci

• Hardcover: 448 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; 1St Edition edition (October 31, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446573019
• ISBN-13: 978-0446573016

Genre:  Mystery
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 31, 2011
From David Baldacci-the modern master of the thriller and #1 worldwide bestselling novelist-comes a new hero: a lone Army Special Agent taking on the toughest crimes facing the nation.

And Zero Day is where it all begins....

John Puller is a combat veteran and the best military investigator in the U.S. Army's Criminal Investigative Division. His father was an Army fighting legend, and his brother is serving a life sentence for treason in a federal military prison. Puller has an indomitable spirit and an unstoppable drive to find the truth.

Now, Puller is called out on a case in a remote, rural area in West Virginia coal country far from any military outpost. Someone has stumbled onto a brutal crime scene, a family slaughtered. The local homicide detective, a headstrong woman with personal demons of her own, joins forces with Puller in the investigation. As Puller digs through deception after deception, he realizes that absolutely nothing he's seen in this small town, and no one in it, are what they seem. Facing a potential conspiracy that reaches far beyond the hills of West Virginia, he is one man on the hunt for justice against an overwhelming force.

David Baldacci is one of the world's favorite storytellers. His books are published in over 45 languages and in more than 80 countries, with over 110 million copies in print. David Baldacci is also the cofounder, along with his wife, of the Wish You Well Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting literacy efforts across America. Still a resident of his native Virginia, he invites you to visit him at www.DavidBaldacci.com and his foundation at www.WishYouWellFoundation.org, and to look into its program to spread books across America at www.FeedingBodyandMind.com. 

Review:
John Puller is an army man from a family of famous and infamous military men. Puller could have advanced in rank but instead served as a combat soldier and now serves as a dedicated Army investigator. He is sent to a small coal town in West Virginia to investigate the brutal slaying of a visiting family. The father of the family was a military officer with high clearance and possible sensitive information.

Puller teams up with the local sheriff, “Sam”, a strong minded woman who is making her way in a man’s field of work and authority. Sam knows the community but the investigation is clearly beyond her small town deputies and resources. Puller is able to bring expert skills and access to government resources.

Puller thinks it is odd when his superiors indicate that there are a lot of eyes on the investigation but they won’t allocate more assistance. Then he is told of some terrorist threats to the area that were picked up on air waves. As Puller pushes he discovers the threat and secrets are much larger than anyone expected.

There are several suspects to consider as you try to puzzle all the known clues and the hidden secrets. Sheriff Sam brings along her tenacious character but she is burdened with family issues including a brother-in-law who is the main wealth and employer in the community and a brother who drinks to drown his depression. I really liked Puller’s strong, intense, character and his interaction with Sam. I wasn’t thrilled with Baldacci’s handling of all of the characters but you have to remember that he is a mystery writer, not a romance author so don’t be looking for a HEA. The mystery is a good twister with layers to dig through. I would like to read more stories with Puller as the main protagonist.

I listened to part of this on Audible, narrated by Ron McLarty and Orlagh Cassidy.  They did a very good job portraying the intensity of the characters. The background sounds added to the suspense of the story. I would recommend this as a good audio listen if you enjoy audio books.

~~~~~~~

I received this book from Hachette Grand Central Publishing for an unbiased review.

Book Review: The Healing Code by Alexander Loyd and Ben Johnson

If you are interested in healing issues in your life I recommend you check out this book.
The Healing Code: 6 Minutes to Heal the Source of Your Health, Success, or Relationship Issue by Alexander Loyd and Ben Johnson

• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style; 1 edition (February 9, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 9781455502011
• ISBN-13: 978-1455502011
• ASIN: 1455502014

      Genre: Non Fiction
      My Rating: 4.5 of  5.0

Product Description
Discover the revolutionary formula that heals the source of illness and disease, even success and relationship issues. According to Stanford, Harvard, Mayo Clinic, the CDC, and other research centers, there is one source of up to 95% of all illness and disease, and it is not your thoughts, emotions, conscious beliefs, actions, or even your DNA. Solomon revealed this source more than 3000 years ago. In 2001 Dr. Alex Loyd discovered how to activate a physical function built into the body that consistently and predictably removes this source so that the neuro-immune system takes over its job of healing whatever is wrong in the body. His findings were validated scientifically and by the thousands of people from all over the world who have used The Healing Codes® system to heal virtually any physical, emotional, or relational issue, as well as realize breakthroughs in success. It is this system that healed Dr. Ben Johnson of Lou Gehrig s disease (ALS) in less than three months; he has been symptom-free since 2004. Dr. Loyd's testing has also revealed that there is a Universal Healing Code that will heal any issue for anyone. In this book you will get that Universal Healing Code, which takes only 6 minutes to do. You will also get: The 7 secrets of life, health, and prosperity (DVD also available) The 10-second Instant Impact technique for defusing daily stress Access to The Heart Issues Finder, the only test in the world that identifies your source issues in a 10-15 page personalized report (which you can take as often as you like) This is your healing kit for life to heal the issues you know about, and the ones you to heal the issues you know about, and the ones you don't. With The Healing Code you have so much more than just a book. ... you have the keys to unlock your own God-given health potential.

Review:  I enjoyed reading this.  The authors present a fundamental cause of most deceases, physical, mental and relationship troubles.  I will not reveal that cause as that would be a spoiler but the presentation makes a lot of sense to me and is something I have recognized in my own health and weaknesses.  I can not say if the Code works on major deceases but there are many testimonies in the book and more made available through links.

I was impressed with the easy and direct style of the book.  It is laid out in a logical fashion and written in a manner that kept my attention and made it a surprisingly quick read.  The book addresses many skeptical arguments including that the Code is like a placebo -  that it is mind over matter.   I like the fact that the book is consistent with biblical teachings particularly since I already have a very strong faith that relies on God as the great Physician and Healer.

After reading the full book I tried the Code myself.  I was concerned about doing the Code as directed as I do not have great imagery of negative moments in my past. Maybe I am blessed to have a forgiving nature and one that lets go of wrongs. However the book describes how the Code can be effective even with suppressed memories and cellular memories and those chapters made good sense to me too.

I have back trouble that flares occasionally but God has kept the worst of that pain away for ten years. I am older so I have aches and pains: first the shoulder hurt, then the toes, now a knee. When anything flares enough, I take some ibuprofen. The first night I tried the Code I did not take any medicine and I preformed the Code right before bed.  I was pleasantly surprised as I lay there feeling absolutely no pain anywhere in my body. I have used it each night since and experienced the same peace and pain-free relief. The pain in my knee is not completely gone during the day but it is less than a week ago.

I found the summaries insightful and supported by facts and testimonies. I recommend this book to everyone who is interested in seeking to address the cause of problems instead of just treating symptoms and who is willing to be open minded enough to consider the recommendations offered by these professionals.

You can check the trailer here.
Author Website.
Other links for Alexander Loyd.
I am not giving this one away as I plan to share it with some close friends.

Thank you to Hachette for this book to read and review.