Reviews By Martha's Bookshelf: Hachette

Showing posts with label Hachette. Show all posts

Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Audio Book Review: Hometown Cowboy, Rocky Mountain Riders, Book 1 by Sara Richardson

This is a nice, sweet and sexy romance.
Hometown Cowboy, Rocky Mountain Riders, Book 1
Written By: Sara Richardson
Narrated By: Laurie Winkel

Publisher: Hachette Book Group USA
Date: January 2018
Duration: 9 hours 22 minutes
Genre: Romance, Small Town Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

NEVER FALL IN LOVE WITH A COWBOY
Jessa Mae Love is done with relationships. No matter how tempting he might be, she cannot--will not--fall for a man like Lance Cortez. The outrageously handsome cowboy is practically a living legend in Colorado, as famous for riding bulls as he is for breaking hearts. What would a big-time rodeo star like him see in a small-town veterinarian who wears glasses, rescues animals, and cries when watching rom-coms? Turns out, plenty.
Raising bulls, riding the circuit, and looking after his ailing father--Lance never stands still for long. Yet Jessa catches his attention, and the more she tries to resist him, the more he wants her. When she agrees to move to the ranch to keep an eye on Lance's dad, Jessa tells him they have to keep it professional: no flirting, no sweet talk, and definitely no kissing. But with Jessa now living under his roof, that's easier said than done . . .

Review:
Jessa Mae may be a diehard romantic, but she has decided she is done with relationships since her latest boyfriend just dumped her by text. Jessa is a veterinarian who returned to town after her father died unexpectedly. Now she is struggling to maintain the animal rescue shelter she sees as her father’s legacy. One of her best volunteers at the shelter is her father’s best friend, Luis Cortez. Luis has three sons and is quick to suggest that Jessa should look to one of them as a new beau. Jessa doesn’t think these are likely candidates. The eldest, Lance, followed his father into the bull riding rodeo ring and has had plenty of time on the road. The middle son, Lucas, doesn’t get talked about much after ending up in prison late in his teen years. Finally, the youngest, Levi, left town after high school and has his own reputation with the women.

Luis is in his late 60s and was with Jessa’s father when he died from a heart attack as they were hiking the mountains on the Cortez ranch. It isn’t surprising that Luis and Jessa have a close relationship and Jessa tends to join him when he goes hiking as she doesn’t want him to be alone. Lately, Jessa is observing some signs of illness that cause her concern. Lance asks Jessa to move into the main house to help watch over Luis while Lance concentrates on his training for the upcoming World Rodeo Championships. Jessa is reluctant to spend time near Lance fearing she will become enamored of him. She knows he isn’t HEA material.

Lance has never planned to settle down with a wife and family. His mother walked away when he was young, and he has a tainted view of women. Yet, he sees something special in Jessa. Every time she tries to stay away from him, he wants her closer. And the day comes when their explosive chemistry gets the better of them. But then tensions among Lance and his brothers cause distance between Lance and Jessa. Then he learns that she has kept a secret and his bitter anger sends her packing. Is there any chance these two can recognize how much they need, and want, each other?

I quickly liked these two different characters: gentle, romantic Jessa, and rough, independent Lance. Their flirtation may be reluctant, but it eventually sizzles. Sara Richardson does a nice job developing the characters and the past events that explain the conflicts and tensions and the struggles they have to overcome if they want to come together. The plot includes illness issues and an interesting look at the tenacity required for bull riding. There is a bit of language but it goes by quickly. I recommend this fun, engaging story to romance readers who enjoy a mix of sweet and sexy.

Audio Notes: Laurie Winkel does a very nice job with the narration. She supplies good energy to the story making it an easy, enjoyable listen.

Source: 8/9/18 Two for One Credit Audiobooks.com. This qualifies for 2020TBR, 2020Audiobook and 2020Alphabet goals.

Tuesday, July 26, 2016

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Ultimate Courage (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake

This is wonderful romantic (military) suspense with guard dog.

Ultimate Courage (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake
File Size: 895 KB
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Forever (July 26, 2016)
ASIN: B017RQP1X0
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Military Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

LOVE IS AN ACT OF BRAVERY
Retired Navy SEAL Alex Rojas is putting his life back together, one piece at a time. Being a single dad to his young daughter and working at Hope's Crossing Kennels to help rehab a former guard dog, he struggles every day to control his PTSD. But when Elisa Hall shows up, on the run and way too cautious, she unleashes his every protective instinct.
Elisa's past never stays in her rearview mirror for long, and she refuses to put anyone else in danger. But with Alex guarding her so fiercely yet looking at her so tenderly, she's never felt safer . . . or more terrified that the secrets she keeps could put countless people in grave peril. The only way for both to fully escape their demons will take the ultimate act of courage: letting go and learning to trust each other.

Review:
Elisa is on the run from a possessive ex-fiance who views her as his possession. She was flattered by the attention from the wealthy man at first until she realized that she was no longer allowed a career or friends of her own. It took a while but she finally got up the courage to make a break for it. But it seemed that wherever she goes, it isn’t long before he locates her and makes it clear that he is expecting her return. Bad things could happen to anyone who might help her so Elisa remains on the run and tries to stay under his radar sources.

Elisa meets Alex and his spunky daughter at the emergency room. Elisa’s wrist is swollen while Serena, aka Boom, has a broken arm from an accident during martial arts training. Elisa appears at Hope's Crossing Kennels the next day to return a glove that Boom left behind. She shows up just in time to step in as a sorely needed secretary for the office. Alex recognizes that Elisa and is cautious and skittish; behaviors familiar from his own PTSD which he struggles to control. Although Alex doesn’t know Elisa, he is intrigued by the mixture of strength he sees beneath the docile postures. He is willing to step out to help her even as he gives her room to learn to trust him.

As Elisa and Alex grow closer they realize that each has secrets. Can they learn to trust each other and give their growing attraction a chance to deepen? Or will Elisa bolt again as soon as she knows her ex-boyfriend is on her tail?

I really liked these warm characters and was quickly pulled into the story. I also love the dog elements and found Souze, a German Shepherd Dog, to be a great addition. The continuing characters at the kennels provide good support and the addition of the owners of the martial arts academy, a gay couple, are a nice touch too for diversity.

The plot moves along at a good pace with sensual tension and the hint of danger that ultimately appears. This is the sort of romantic suspense/military romance that I really enjoy and I recommend the series and this author. This is the second book I have read in this series and I hope to read more.

I received this title from Hachette, Forever line, through NetGalley for an honest review. This adds to my NetGalley Challenge and "U" in Alphabet Challenge.

THE TRUE HEROES SERIES
Extreme Honor, #1 -- My Review Link
Ultimate Courage, #2
Absolute Trust, #3

Series Page on Goodreads

BUY THE BOOK HERE

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Piper J. Drake (or "PJ") spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every interesting novel she could find at the library. After being introduced to the wonderful world of romance by her best friend, she dove into the genre.

PJ began her writing career as PJ Schnyder, writing sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk, for which she won the FF&P PRISM award as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

PJ's romantic suspense novels incorporate her interests in mixed martial arts and the military. The True Heroes series is inspired by her experience rescuing, owning and training a variety of retired working dogs, including Kaiser, a former guard dog, and Mozart, who was trained to detect explosives.

FOLLOW FOREVER ONLINE

EXCERPT:

   You’ve got to be insane.”
   Elisa Hall took a prudent step—or two—back as she observed the standoff brewing in front of her. A tall man stood between her and the emergency room reception desk, glaring at the woman in scrubs behind it. He stood at an angle to Elisa, so he could see the reception desk to his right and the entirety of the waiting area in front of him.
   He clenched his fists.
   Elisa retreated farther back toward the entrance, releasing her throbbing rist and letting her hands fall to her sides. Harmless. Nothing to see here.
   “I’m sorry, sir, but ambulances take precedence over walk-ins,” the nurse repeated. She was braver than Elisa would’ve been in the face of rage on a level with the man’s at the counter.
   He was dressed in loose fitness shorts and a close-fitting black tee. His hands were wrapped in some cross between tape and fabric.
   “Fighter” might as well have been printed across his very broad, muscular shoulders.
   Actually, now that she was looking, his tee said Revolution Mixed Martial Arts Academy.
   Well, then. Maybe she should just take more ibuprofen and forget about seeing a doctor for her swollen wrist after all. Getting her injury examined wasn’t worth staying anywhere near this guy.
   The nurse glanced quickly at Elisa then returned her attention to the man, her expression softening with sympathy. “As soon as an examination room opens up, we’ll get you in to see the doctor. Please, wait right here and fill out these forms while I help this young lady.”
   Wait, what? The man’s face, and his focus, turned toward her. Oh, great.
   Usually she envied nurses their ability to sympathize with so many patients and make such a difference in their lives. Now was not one of those times.
   Elisa squashed the urge to bolt. Never ended well when she tried it. Better to hold very still, wait until the anger in front of her burned itself out, and pull herself together afterward.
   Instead, she fastened her gaze on the floor and tried to keep her body from tensing visibly. Silently, she sang herself an inane nursery rhyme to take her mind
off the weight of the man’s intense glare. Please, please, let him walk away. They were in public, and even though the emergency room waiting area wasn’t packed, it still had a dozen people scattered around the seats.
   But the expected explosion, shouting, other things . . .never happened. Instead, the man had quieted. All of the frustrated aggression seemed to have been stuffed away, somewhere.
   She swallowed hard. Relief eased her constricted throat, and she breathed slowly for the time being. Leaving remained the best idea she had at the moment.
   But he stepped away from the counter and farther to her right, motioning with a wrapped hand for her to step forward. As she forced her feet to take herself closer to the reception desk—and past him—he gave her room.
   Belatedly, she realized his movement also happened to block her escape route toward the doors. He couldn’t have done it on purpose, could he? But Elisa took a step up to the reception counter and away from him anyway.
   “Yes, dear?” The nurse’s gentle prompt made Elisa jump.
   Damn it. Elisa’s heart beat loud in her ears.
   The nurse gave her an encouraging smile. “Don’t mind him. He’s been here before. I’ve already asked another nurse to bring ice packs as fast as possible. I don’t
mind if he blows off some hot air in my direction in the meantime. I would be upset, too, considering today’s situation.”
   Elisa bit her lip. She could still feel the man standing behind her, his presence looming at her back. He couldn’t possibly appreciate the nurse sharing some of his private information. And he didn’t seem to need ice packs or any other medical attention. He appeared very able-bodied. “It’s none of my business.”
   The nurse placed a clipboard on the counter and wrinkled her nose. “Oh, trust me, the entire waiting room knows what his concern is. Tell me what brought you here.”
   This might be the most personable emergency room reception area Elisa had been to in years, not counting the extremely angry man standing behind her. They were either not very busy—not likely if all the examination rooms were full up—or extremely efficient.
   Efficiency meant she could get in and out and decide what her next steps would be.
   “My wrist.” Elisa held out her left arm, her wrist obviously swollen. “I thought it was just a bad sprain, but it’s been more than a few days and has only gotten worse. I can barely move it now.”
   And if she could have avoided it, she definitely wouldn’t have stopped in to get it treated. An emergency room visit, even with the help of her soon-to-be nonexistent insurance, was still an expense she didn’t need. It’d been six months or so since her last significant paycheck, and she could not afford to extend her insurance much longer. Plus, it might be better not to. One less way to track her.
   “Is that your dominant arm, dear?” The nurse held up a pen.
   Elisa shook her head.
   “Oh, good. Leave your ID and insurance card with me so I can make copies. Take a seat over there to fill out this form and bring it back to me.”
   Okay, then. Elisa took the items and made her way toward the seating area, thankful the nurse hadn’t asked her to give her name and pertinent information verbally. It was always a risk to share those things out loud.
   She’d learned over and over again. There was a chance a slip of information in the unlikeliest of places would find its way to exactly the person she didn’t want
to have it. No matter how careful she’d been over the last several months, it hadn’t been enough yet.
   But it would be. This time. She was learning, and she was free. Every day was a new chance.
   Nodding to herself, Elisa looked for a seat. It might not be crowded, but just about everyone in the room had decided to sit with at least a chair or two buffer between them and the next person. The buffer seats were all that were left, and most of the other people waiting to be seen were either men, or women sitting with men.
   Then she caught sight of a young girl sitting with her legs crossed in the seat next to the big planter in the corner. Slender, but long limbed, the girl had a sweet face and the gangly look of a growing kid. Elisa guessed the girl was maybe eight or nine, could even be ten. Hard to pin down age when the kid had such an innocent look to her. The seat next to her was open, and she was waiting quietly, hugging a big, blue, plush . . . round thing. Whatever it was.
   Elisa walked quickly over, and when the girl looked up at her with big, blue eyes, Elisa gave her the friendliest smile she could dig up. “Mind if I sit next
to you?”
   The girl looked around, her gaze lingering on the reception area behind Elisa for a moment before saying, “Sure.”
   Elisa took a seat.
   After a few silent moments, the little girl stirred next to her. “Are you sick?”
   Well, paperwork didn’t take much of her attention, and it’d been a while since Elisa had been outside of her own head in a lot of ways. Conversation would be a welcome change and a good distraction from the constant worry running in the back of her mind. “Not sick so much as hurt. I won’t give you the plague.”
   A soft, strained laugh. “Same here.”
   Elisa took a harder look at the big, plush toy. It wasn’t for comfort as Elisa’d first assumed. It was supporting the girl’s slender left arm, which was bent at an impossible angle.
   “Oh my god.” Why was she sitting here alone?
   “Don’t worry.” The girl gave her a quick thumbs-up with her right hand. “The doctors are really good here, and I’m in all the time.”
   Such a brave face. She had to be in an insane amount of pain. And here she was encouraging Elisa.
   “Is there someone you should talk to about how often you get hurt?” Elisa struggled for the right tone. It was one she’d heard more than once when people had been concerned for her. Some places had safeguards in place for . . .
   Blue eyes widened. “Oh, it’s not what you’re thinking. Trust me, people ask my dad. And it’s not like that at all. I study mixed martial arts. I get bruised and
bumped all the time, and usually it’s nothing, but Dad always makes me come in to get checked.”
   It was hard not to believe in the earnest tone. But monsters were everywhere.
   The girl gave her a rueful smile, still amazing considering how much pain she had to be in. “This time it wasn’t just a bump.”
   “Which is why they’re going to see you as soon as they can, Boom.”
   Elisa hadn’t heard the man approach. He was just there. He kneeled down in front of the girl then gently tucked an ice pack around her arm while moving it as little as possible. For her part, the girl hissed in pain but otherwise held up with amazing fortitude.
   Elisa would’ve been in tears. The forearm had to be broken. Both bones. It didn’t take a doctor to figure that out. No wonder the man had been mad earlier. She’d want this girl to be seen as soon as possible, too. She dropped her gaze, unable to watch.
   “Here.” An ice pack appeared in her view. “Your wrist should be iced, too. Take down the swelling while you wait.”
   Speechless, Elisa looked up.
   The man’s words were gruff, awkward. His expression was blank. But his eyes—a softness around his eyes—and a . . . quiet in the way he watched her made her swallow and relax a fraction. Her heartbeat stuttered in a fluttery kind of way. A completely different reaction from what she should be experiencing if she were wise. She didn’t know this man and he was probably married. The girl had a mother somewhere. Where? Maybe on her way. This man was just being nice. Maybe.
   Learn from your mistakes. You never know who a person really is.

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Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Book Review: Extreme Honor (True Heroes) by Piper J. Drake

This has strong characters and a great blend of suspense, story and romance.
Extreme Honor (True Heroes)
by Piper J. Drake

File Size: 848 KB
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: Forever (January 26, 2016)
Sold by: Hachette Book Group
ASIN: B00X47ZLZU

Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

HONOR, LOYALTY, LOVE
David Cruz is good at two things: war and training dogs. The ex-soldier's toughest case is Atlas, a Belgian Malinois whose handler died in combat. Nobody at Hope's Crossing kennel can break through the animal's grief. That is, until dog whisperer Evelyn Jones walks into the facility . . . and into Atlas's heart. David hates to admit that the curvy blonde's mesmerizing effect isn't limited to canines. But when Lyn's work with Atlas puts her in danger, David will do anything to protect her.
Lyn realizes that David's own battle scars make him uniquely qualified for his job as a trainer. Tough as nails yet gentle when it counts, he's gotten closer to Atlas than anyone else-and he's willing to put his hard-wired suspicion aside to let her do the same. But someone desperate enough to kill doesn't want Lyn working with Atlas. Now only teamwork, trust, and courage can save two troubled hearts and the dog who loves them both . . .

Review:
Lyn is a civilian dog trainer. She loves dogs and relates to them – usually better than to their human handlers or owners. She has developed her own business even through the discouragement from her military stepfather who has never really given her approval or loving support. They are always at odds yet he helped her get her latest contract to work with Atlas, a a Belgian Malinois military dog who lost his handler and is struggling to show interest in life. Lyn is determined to help Atlas but first she has to get past his current trainer, former military soldier, David Cruz.

Although Lyn’s initial approach to Cruz doesn’t work, the fact that Atlas responds to her does. Cruz slowly begins to gain respect for the pretty trainer as he sees progress in Atlas’ attitude. Cruz isn't sure of Lynn's motives and plans to challenge her. When he shows up at her hotel to find her under attack his attitude quickly shifts to protective mode.

Another attack at the kennel grounds makes it clear that someone is interested in keeping Lyn from working with Atlas. It appears that Atlas may be carrying secrets that someone is willing to kill to keep hidden. Now Cruz is even more determined to discover the secrets that surround Atlas.

I immediately liked the tone of this story. Lyn is a great character as a independent, smart professional who is vulnerable yet pushes back when under attack or trauma. David is a very honorable man who is willing to listen, provide truths and is reluctant to take advantage of a traumatized woman. There is lovely conflict and tension that builds to danger and suspense, and gentle, but clear attraction that builds to strong romantic love making that is sexy but not overdone. Atlas is a dog with personality that has to be drawn out and I enjoyed the addition of the dog training details, including the introduction of other handlers and dogs.

The story is told in third person with the point of view shifting between Lyn and Cruz. This gives good balance and good character depth. There is some background done through a form of “telling”, talking to the dog, but it worked for me and I had no problem with the presentation. The writing flows easily and I finished this in two days. I carried it around with me and read every chance I got as it was a book I didn’t want to put down.

This is the first time I have read this author but I am sure it will not be the last. I recommend this to readers who enjoy good romantic suspense – heavy on the story and suspense with a strong romance that doesn’t overtake the storyline.

I received this through NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge, E on Alphabet Soup and TBR Triple Dog Dare.

Piper J. Drake (or "PJ") spent her childhood pretending to study for the SATs by reading every

interesting novel she could borrow from the local and school libraries. She was introduced to the wonderful world of romance by her best friend and dove into the genre.

PJ began her writing career as "PJ Schnyder" writing sci-fi & paranormal romance and steampunk. She has recently received the FF&P PRISM award for her work as well as the NJRW Golden Leaf award and Parsec award.

Now, PJ is exploring the complexity of romantic suspense, incorporating her interests in mixed martial arts and the military into her writing.

Connect with Piper at: Website | Facebook | Twitter |GoodReads | Amazon

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Book Review and Tour Giveaway: Steal Me (NYPD's Finest) by Lauren Layne

This is an engaging and well done romantic suspense.

Steal Me (NYPD's Finest)
by Lauren Layne

File Size: 582 KB
Print Length: 352 pages
Publisher: Forever (November 24, 2015)
ASIN: B00U6DNY7W

Genre: Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

IN HOT PURSUIT
Being a cop might be in Anthony Moretti's blood, but protecting and serving the city of New York has always been more than just the family business. If that means his love life stays locked up, well then that's just another sacrifice made in the line of duty. That is, until he sets eyes on the gorgeous new waitress at The Darby Diner and suddenly Anthony's morning coffee is leaving him a whole lot more hot and bothered than usual.
Though waitressing at The Darby isn't exactly Maggie Walker's dream job, it pays the bills and gives her time to work on her novel. Now if only she could stop fantasizing about gorgeous Anthony Moretti every time he sits down at her table, she'd really be in great shape. But when he needs her help identifying a criminal threatening The Darby-and Maggie recognizes her ex-husband-she fears her fresh start might be a pipe dream. Faster than a New York minute, Maggie and Anthony find themselves in one perilous pursuit that only gets hotter with each and every rule-breaking kiss.

Review:
Maggie enjoys serving food to the Moretti family who visit The Darby restaurant. They are warm and friendly towards her – except Anthony. When he isn’t scowling at her for spilling drink or food on him, he is gruffly reminding her to call him “Captain”. Maggie doesn’t want to spend years waitressing, but right now it pays the bills as she writes her first novel. She is recovering from her divorce to her shiftless ex-husband, Eddie. Her efforts to save have also been tapped by her alcoholic father and wastrel brother. Maggie has a history of letting men in her life ‘use her’, leaching money, as well as emotions.

Anthony is focused on following in his father’s footsteps all the way to Police Commissioner. He has recently been promoted to Captain but has run into a stumbling block of a crime spree. A petty thief is roaming town stealing minor items and leaving his calling card – a smiley sticker. Anthony is frustrated by the frequency of the thefts especially as the media hypes up how the robber, known as ‘Smiley’, is eluding the police.

Anthony and Maggie are at arm’s length until she spots a sketch of the thief in the papers he is studying over lunch. Maggie recognizes that face and presents the best lead in the case.

Maggie is the only informant on his top case and Anth knows he should be staying away from her. Besides, Anthony has reason to think his work and a relationship can never mix. Too bad emotions and attraction don’t always stay logically in control. The case heats up and so does their relationship. Maggie wants to help, but doesn’t want to just be used for the case. Is there any way to avoid a crash for Anth and a heartbreak for Maggie?

I enjoyed the tone of this novel from the very beginning. You could tell that Maggie and Anthony are characters who would dance away from each other until something brings them together. Ms. Layne does a great job of mixing the chemistry and building the tension. The mystery develops strength alongside the reluctant relationship. Ultimately there are two pretty heavy sexual encounters but they were nicely done with a lot of steam, and no real crassness.

The large Moretti family make for great secondary characters and I would anticipate stories for each of the other siblings. This is the second book after Frisk Me, the story for Luc. I would be interested in reading more novels by Ms. Layne. I recommend this title to readers who enjoy sexy romance with great build up and a sound plot as a foundation.

I received this title through NetGalley for tour review and feature for Forever Romance.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1kbncdn
B&N: http://bit.ly/1RUCX2P
iBooks: http://apple.co/1WwEbry
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1klj9Ls
BAM!: http://bit.ly/1l87YpG
Google Play: http://bit.ly/1NQnHDk

About Lauren Layne
A long-time romance reader, Lauren Layne thinks the only thing better than reading about happy endings is writing them. She now pursues a full-time career in Happily Ever After, a job she's naturally suited for after marrying her high school sweetheart. A bit of a nomad, Lauren's lived everywhere from Orange County to Manhattan, and currently lives in the Seattle-area. Her hobbies include coffee by day, wine by night, and lots of writing in between. She's also a total website nerd and insists you check out laurenlayne.com!

http://laurenlayne.com/

https://twitter.com/_LaurenLayne

https://www.facebook.com/LaurenLayneAuthor/?fref=ts

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Saturday, October 3, 2015

Book Review: Harriet Wolf's Seventh Book of Wonders: A Novel by Julianna Baggott

This is not my usual reading taste but in the end I found it remarkable.

Harriet Wolf's Seventh Book of Wonders: A Novel

by Julianna Baggott

File Size: 1098 KB
• Print Length: 337 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0316375101
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (August 18, 2015)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00S5A6HQS
Genre: Women's Fiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

"A mesmerizing tale of star-crossed love and of the dark secrets in a fracturing family . . . This novel is so full of wonders that it leaves you haunted, amazed, and, like every great read, irrevocably changed."--Caroline Leavitt, New York Times bestselling author of Pictures of You

The reclusive Harriet Wolf, revered author and family matriarch, has a final confession-a love story. Years after her death, as her family comes together one last time, the mystery of Harriet's life hangs in the balance. Does the truth lie in the rumored final book of the series that made Harriet a world-famous writer, or will her final confession be lost forever?

Harriet Wolf's Seventh Book of Wonders tells the moving story of the unforgettable Wolf women in four distinct voices: the mysterious Harriet, who, until now, has never revealed the secrets of her past; her fiery, overprotective daughter, Eleanor; and her two grown granddaughters--Tilton, the fragile yet exuberant younger sister, who's become a housebound hermit, and Ruth, the older sister, who ran away at sixteen and never looked back. When Eleanor is hospitalized, Ruth decides it's time to do right by a pact she made with Tilton long ago: to return home and save her sister. Meanwhile, Harriet whispers her true life story to the reader. It's a story that spans the entire twentieth century and is filled with mobsters, outcasts, a lonesome lion, and a home for wayward women. It's also a tribute to her lifelong love of the boy she met at the Maryland School for Feeble-minded Children.

Harriet Wolf's Seventh Book of Wonders, Julianna Baggott's most sweeping and mesmerizing novel yet, offers a profound meditation on motherhood and sisterhood, as well as on the central importance of stories. It is a novel that affords its characters that rare chance we all long for--the chance to reimagine the stories of our lives while there's still time.

Review:
This is a most unusual book. It starts out with a punch as Harriet announces she was born dead… She then proceeds to explain. Although Harriet is the primary figure, the book weaves in and out of her life and through the lives of her stubborn and controlling daughter, Eleanor, and Eleanor’s two daughters, rebellious, bitter, Ruth and fragile but inquisitive Tilton. Harriet slowly shares her background as a seemingly moronic child placed at the Maryland School for Feeble-minded Children, a specialized school, in the early 1900s. After a number of years it is discovered that Harriet is actually a genius but her father views a genius female child as a waste and leaves her in the school. Harriet meets a young boy at the school and they fall in love.

Harriet’s mother discovers by accident that Harriet is alive and she immediately brings her home from school. Mother and daughter have several wonderful years together, while dad remains late at work and out of the way. Harriet’s live is set in a tail spin when her mother dies and her father returns the senior teen to another facility. Eventually Harriet moves out on her own and establishes a life that ultimately leads to writing a series of six books that reach great popularity and academic acclaim. Everyone was sure there was a seventh book but Eleanor insists she does not have it and keeps her house closed to any fans or inquiries.

The story shifts chapters between the four female characters and the reader gets to see the strengths, weaknesses and the dysfunction of each. Eleanor’s circumstance was impacted by events that led to her husband leaving. Eleanor adopted the attitude: “Human beings are shaped by tragedy and this one’s ours.” Ruth blamed her mother for her father walking out and resented her mother’s focus on her fragile sister. Once she left home Ruth had not expected to return, even to save Tilton as she had once promised. Tilton is a lovely character full of gentleness and joy. It is so sad that she has been completely overprotected by her mother. As the current lives of Eleanor and her girls unfold and head toward collision, Harriet’s tale continues to reveal the great joys and loves of her life. The story and the characters finally “bloomed”.

The writing is smooth with a lyrical tone and some incredible descriptions. The historical elements regarding treatment of the ‘feeble-minded’ are rather fascinating. The difficult and tangled feelings between mothers and daughters is a primary focus of the book.

I am not big into drama and I almost stopped reading this at about a third in. I found it somewhat depressing as well as outright bizarre. I am glad I persevered as the ending made the entire book worthwhile for me! I am sure that readers who enjoy family drama would like the journey better than I did but I am glad that there was light and love revealed at the end. The author states a precept that I have long believed that “joy needs sorrow to understand itself. And sorrow, without joy, has no bearings” (location 707). She also makes a clear point that each individual has a unique life experience that results from their unique way of perceiving (location 2140). My final impression of the total work: remarkable.

This is a book I was invited to read at NetGalley. It qualifies for my NetGalley Challenge.

Friday, July 3, 2015

Book Review and Blitz Giveaway: A Promise of Forever (A Tallgrass Novel Book 1) by Marilyn Pappano

This is a very enjoyable and beautiful small town romance with strong characters and an engaging storyline.
A Promise of Forever (A Tallgrass Novel Book 1)
by Marilyn Pappano

File Size: 948 KB
Print Length: 369 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455561568
Publisher: Forever (June 30, 2015)
Publication Date: June 30, 2015
Sold by: Hachette Book Group
ASIN: B00O7X61GI
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Small Town
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Sergeant First Class Avi Grant's return to Tallgrass, Oklahoma is a long-deferred wish come true. With her final tour in Afghanistan over, Avi can focus on her future-a job here at home and a family of her own. There's just one thing she has to do first: visit her beloved commanding officer's widow and share her grief. The last thing she expected was to feel an instant attraction to the woman's son. Too bad the sexy surgeon is impossible to ignore . . . and even harder to resist.
The sting of his parents' divorce still niggles at Ben Noble. So when a warm, funny, and beautiful young sergeant arrives, mourning his stepfather's loss as strongly as his mother does, Ben can't help but feel conflicted. If his parents taught him anything, it's that love doesn't last-especially with a career soldier. But try as he might to keep his distance, Ben begins to see that Avi-and the spark she brings to his life-is the stuff forever is made of. As Avi's leave ticks away, can Ben convince her to take a chance on forever with him?

Review:
Avi has been determined to be a career soldier since she was ten. She is twelve years in with eight to go. She has seen her share of war in hot spots and suffered the lose of comrades, friends and now the beloved commander who had originally inspired her as a child. She has come home to Tallgrass to visit her family and pay respects to her commander’s widow, Patricia. Avi plans to spend a few weeks before moving to Georgia to take up new duties.

Ben is a highly respected orthopedic surgeon in Tulsa, an hour drive away from Tallgrass. Ben was just a young teenager when his mother left the family to marry an army commander. His father lost interest in life and a hurting Ben was left to raise his younger sisters. He is just starting to reconnect with his recently widowed mother, Patricia.

Lately Ben has been thinking about finding the right woman to start a family with. He is immediately interested in Avi even when she explains that she will only be around for a few weeks. She might not be “the one” but they can have a fabulous fling before she has to go. Neither one realizes that a light fling can turn into a love that will lead to heartbreak when they have to part. After all, Avi has to go where the Army sends her and Ben isn’t one to leave behind his family and career.

I really enjoyed these strong characters, their family and friends. Several side characters, especially Patricia, her neighbor, Lucy, and some dogs with personality added depth and side interests. The writing is clean and flowed very well with an uplifting view even in dealing with loss. Any reader who has lost a loved one, whether in war or other means, could relate to the war widows who gather as the Margarita Ladies. The romance is beautifully developed with lots of chemistry and mostly behind doors sex scenes. The connection is clear without graphic details. I was glued to the story to find out how the romance would end - apart or together?

There is an intermittent story thread of an unconnected character which was curious and not explained until the excerpt for the next book. That seemed an odd way to present another story but it works okay for me. This is the first story I have read by Ms. Pappano and I would be glad to read more of her work. The strong characters, small town interest and conflicted romance can be closely and favorably compared with the style of Robyn Carr. I recommend this book and this author as another “go-to” author for entertaining, contemporary, small town romance.

I received this title from Hachette for an honest review during Blitz Week. It adds to my NetGalley Challenge.

Buy the book!

B&N

BAM

About the author:

Known for her intensely emotional stories, Marilyn Pappano is the USA Today bestselling author of nearly eighty books. She has made regular appearances on bestseller lists and has received recognition for her work in the form of numerous awards. Though her husband's Navy career took them across the United States, he and Ms. Pappano now live in Oklahoma high on a hill that overlooks her hometown. They have one son and daughter-in-law, an adorable grandson, and a pack of mischievous dogs.

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EXCERPT:
Outside, the sounds of children playing were louder, the splashes indicating that the kids across the street were enjoying one of the last swims of the summer. Avi and Ben walked silently to her car, parked in the driveway.
She nestled the pie plate into the passenger seat, tucked her purse around to hold it in place, then closed the door before turning to him.
So . . . Would he ask for her cell number? Offer his? Make firm plans to see her again before driving away?
For the first time in a long time, the answers mattered.
Linking his fingers with hers, he pulled her to the driver’s side of the car, then stood, invading her personal She liked it.
“Do you have any plans for tomorrow night?”
Yes! “Not a single one.”
He combed his fingers through his hair. “Would you like to go out to dinner?”
She wanted to blurt out the affirmative as quickly as it had echoed in her head, but he went on. “You would have to drive to Tulsa. Tuesday is surgery day, so if I come here, I can’t get here before seven, and I’ll have to head back before nine.”
Drive to Tulsa? An hour or less. No big deal. She’d had commutes between apartments and forts that took longer, and that was just to work. An evening with Ben was such a nicer payoff. “I don’t mind.”
“I usually get out of clinic around six. We could meet at my house around six thirty?”
A smile spread across her face. “I can handle that.”
“Good.” He wasn’t smiling, but his eyes showed something just as encouraging. Relief, maybe, or satisfaction. Hmm. She could show him satisfaction.
He leaned closer, just slightly, and lowered his voice. “I’d kiss you good night, but we have an audience.”
Glancing over her shoulder toward the house, she caught just a glimpse of Patricia before the blinds at the living room window settled. Looking back at Ben, she smiled. “Kiss me anyway.”
He closed the last of the distance between them, lowering his mouth to hers, giving her a sweet, gentle, tender kiss that set her blood on fire. It was impressive and surprising and just a bit scary, considering she’d had tons of kisses that were a whole lot more passionate and evoked a whole lot less of a response.
When he lifted his head, her fingers curled, wanting to wrap around the back of his neck and pull him down again. Her heart skipped a beat or two, and something deep inside her felt deprived.
In the dim light, Ben looked impressed and surprised and a bit scared, too. For a moment, he stared at her, all intense and searching, then he gave a rueful shake of his head. Stepping back, he asked for her cell phone, input his number, and texted it to himself to get her number.
“Six thirty,” he said when he handed it back, his voice rough-edged. “I’ll send you the address.”
“I’ll be there.”

GIVEAWAY

ONE PRINT COPY (US/Canada only). Graciously provided by the publisher.

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 2 Extra Bonus entries (a) comment on the review,

(b) visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there

* This contest is open to US/Canada only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) July 11, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after July 11, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.