Goddess Fish Promotions Book Blast: The Seduction Of Lady Phoebe

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Ella Quinn will award a $25 Amazon gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Polite society has its rules for marriage. But for Ella Quinn’s eligible bachelors, their brides will show them that rules are for the faint of heart . . .

Phoebe Stanhope is not a typical Lady. As feisty as she is quick witted, no one can catch her, especially when she is driving her dashing phaeton with its perfectly matched horses. And unlike her peers, experience has guarded her against a growing list of would-be suitors. But when she encounters Marcus Finley, what she fears most burns deep within his blue-eyed gaze . . .

For Lord Marcus, the spark of recognition is but a moment in the love he has held these many years. Now that he’s returned to England, all the happiness he desires rests on Lady Phoebe never finding out that he was the one who turned her heart so cold and distant. He must work fast to gain the advantage—to convince her what she wants is exactly what she denies—but in order to seduce her into his arms, he must be willing to give up more than he can control . . .

Read an Excerpt

Marcus Finley arrived at the White Horse Inn with his friend Robert, Viscount Beaumont, who had reserved rooms there. Marcus found chambers across the street at the Red Unicorn. They met later to dine in a private parlor Marcus hired.

“Quite good ordinary they have here.” Robert sat back in his chair, crossing one highly polished boot over the other. “The brandy is as good as any I’ve had. Must be French, though I don’t wish to know how the landlord came by it.”

Marcus grinned. “Yes, it’s very good and probably smuggled.”

Silence fell for a few moments, then Robert sat straight up in his chair. “Marcus, my boy, I saw the most beautiful gal I’ve ever seen in my life at the White Horse.”

Marcus lounged in his chair, lifting a brow in inquiry. Robert was known to be a favorite with the many disenchanted matrons of the ton.

“And where did you find this paragon of nature?” Marcus asked in a languid drawl. “In the tap?”

“No, no, my boy, not a game-pullet. Not at all. She was a lady.”

Marcus raised his quizzing glass and regarded his friend more closely. “Married?”

“No. Put that thing away, you know I don’t like it. Besides, there’s nothing wrong with me. She is a well-bred, unmarried lady. Beautiful, I tell you. Tiny. Has a good figure, quite a neat ankle, and the most gorgeous gold-red hair. Perfect in every way.”

Marcus’s fingers tightened around his glass. Robert’s conquests were legend, but they didn’t extend to well-bred innocents. A terrifying thought began to fill Marcus’s mind. It couldn’t be Phoebe. She was at Cranbourne Place.

He fought to keep his face calm, his gaze focused on his friend. “Who is this lady, do you know?”

“Yes, got my groom to ask one of the ostlers. Stupid fellows, those ostlers, giving out that kind of information,” Lord Beaumont ruminated, definitely on the go. “Yes, now that I think on it, I believe I shall have a word with the landlord. The servants ought not be giving that sort of thing out.”

Marcus tapped his fingers on the table. “Her name, Robert?”

“Her name?” Marcus repeated and waved an impatient hand to encourage his friend to continue.

“Oh, yes,” Robert finally said. “Lady Phoebe Stanhope. Heard of her of course. Never seen her before. Don’t, as a rule, attend those types of events. Not much for the Grand Strut you know. Must avoid the matchmaking mamas. M’grandmother’s been after me to marry. Lady Phoebe is a devilish good looking gal. I may have to make a push.”

Marcus fumed. Lady Phoebe. His Vision. Friends or no, he would be damned if he’d let Robert anywhere near her.

About the Author: USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn's studies and other jobs have always been on the serious side. Reading historical romances, especially Regencies, were her escape. Eventually her love of historical novels led her to start writing them.

She is married to her wonderful husband of over thirty years. They have a son and two beautiful granddaughters, and a Great Dane. After living in the South Pacific, Central America, North Africa, England and Europe, she and her husband decided to make their dreams come true and are now living on a sailboat. After cruising the Caribbean and North America, she completed a transatlantic crossing from St. Martin to Southern Europe. She's currently living in Germany, happily writing while her husband is back at work, recovering from retirement.

Ella loves when readers connect with her.

Author Contact and Social Media:

Website: https://www.ellaquinnauthor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EllaQuinnAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ellaquinnauthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7044274.Ella_Quinn
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/ella-quinn
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ella-Quinn/e/B00CAE0FSQ

Buy Links for the Mass Market Paperback:

Kensington: https://www.kensingtonbooks.com/book.aspx/38034
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Seduction-Lady-Phoebe-Marriage-Game/dp/1420147285/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-seduction-of-lady-phoebe-ella-quinn/1115119327
BAM: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Seduction-Lady-Phoebe/Ella-Quinn/9781420147285?id=7711374629459
Indiebound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781420147285
Target: https://www.target.com/p/the-seduction-of-lady-phoebe-marriage-game-by-ella-quinn-paperback/-/A-76508331
Walmart: https://www.walmart.com/ip/The-Seduction-of-Lady-Phoebe-9781420147285/853764265

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Goddess Fish Promotions Book Review: Challenging Mountains

Challenging Mountains

by Tricia McGill

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GENRE: Historical romance

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BLURB:

By 1840 the colony of New South Wales was expanding. Transportation of convicts to the east coast ended, and many free squatters set out to settle on lands to the south. In 1836, the Government in London authorised Governor Bourke to establish a settlement in The Port Philip District of New South Wales, and an Association was formed to make the district a separate colony.

Timothy, Tiger and Bella Carstairs eldest son has turned 21. Bored with his Government job and intent on seeking adventure and a new life away from Sydney, Tim decides to journey south in an endeavour to find this adventure, accompanied by his Uncle Carlos. Where else to find it, but in a newly formed settlement.

In the 1840s the road south might not be as hazardous as the one across the mountains travelled by his parents when he was a child, but the month long journey overland holds many dangers and challenges to be faced. Escaped and ex-convicts seek the easy life by forming gangs to take what they can where they can. Forced to fight off the intruders who take claim to the land they have cared for over many, many generations, the Indigenous people are faced with many trials and battles of their own.

Not the least of Tim’s personal challenges is a young headstrong woman who, uninvited, takes it upon herself to join him on his travels. When they reach their destination, their troubles have only just begun.

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Excerpt:

He walked off, but Tim lingered. He knelt to stroke Bracken’s ear as Josephine approached. “Can I come with you?” she asked.

“And just where do you wish to accompany me, young Jo?” Straightening, he began to stroll towards the house with her at his side.

“Rude of me, I know, but I couldn’t help but overhear your discussion with your uncle.” She lowered her voice and bent closer. Tim caught a scent of lavender. Carefree of feminine ways she might be, but she smelt as good as any young miss. “I shouldn’t sound so ungrateful, as your aunt ensured I had employment in her emporium when I arrived here in town, but the tasks are so tedious. I am bored. I thought of running off and making my own way in the world.” Her face grew comical as she wrinkled her pert nose.

“Silly chit. Don’t you dare even contemplate such a rash move,” he scolded. “You are not naïve, I think, and must know the dangers that exist beyond the sanctuary of a safe home. Anyway, I could not consider taking you along on such a dangerous journey.”

She made an unladylike noise. “Don’t you dare suggest I could not cope with such a journey. I roved free for all of my childhood while my parents worked their mine. I told you, my father treated me more as a son than a daughter.

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Review:  I love historical novels set in different settings, and Challenging Mountains was set in New South Wales. This isn't a place I've read about before so it was a learning experience while I read.

I loved the strength of Jo, though at times she could be frustrating. But isn't that how most people are in life? You can't be perfect. I had to remember the setting was the 1840s and that at 17 or 18 a young girl was really  a woman, though Jo often acted more childish and impulsive when it came to important matters

I liked learning about the frontier of Australia, but I really wish I could have read the first two books in this series. I would have liked to have known the family that shaped who Jo were.

Tim was a much more likable character. He is not much older but a little wiser and not as prone to do things that might, oh I don't know, get people killed. Jo is really good for that, let me tell you.

By the end of the book I wanted to choke her for carelessness, especially when she was given warnings about danger and also because her husband was really a great person who cared about her.

I was glad that through a lot of ups and downs Jo and Tim found their happily ever after, though for awhile, I was unsure of it happening

This was a wonderful short read that had me wishing for more

Rating: 4 flowers

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Award winning author Tricia McGill was born in London, England, and moved to Australia many years ago, settling near Melbourne. The youngest in a large, loving family she was never lonely or alone. Surrounded by avid readers, who encouraged her to read from an early age, is it any wonder she became a writer? The local library was a treasure trove and magical world of discovery through her childhood and growing years. Although her published works cross sub-genres, romance is always at their heart.

Tricia’s love of animals has always shown up in her books. Tricia devotes as much time and money as she can spare to supporting worldwide conservation groups and is passionate about supporting those who do all they can to preserve our wildlife for future generations, especially elephants and orangutans who seem to be getting the raw end of the deal even in this enlightened age. She also volunteers for a local community group that helps disabled adults and children to connect to the internet with provided computer equipment. When people ask what she does in her spare time, she is heard to ask, “Spare time, what is that?”

www.triciamcgill.com

http://triciamg.blogspot.com

https://www.facebook.com/authorTriciaMcGill

Buy links for Challenging Mountains: https://books2read.com/Challenging-Mountains

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Tricia McGill will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

RAFFLECOPTER CODE:

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Goddess Fish Promotions Book Blast: What A Widow Wants

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Jenna Jaxon will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn commenter.

Widowed by the Battle of Waterloo, the ladies of Lyttlefield Park are returning to London society—with their futures in their own hands . . .

The widowed Lady Stephen Tarkington, Fanny to her friends, has finished mourning her cad of a husband and is ready to enjoy her freedom. The kind of freedom neither a gently bred miss nor a close-watched wife is permitted: dressing up as Aphrodite for a masquerade, drawing gentlemen away from the party, and hinting at late-night assignations with her dance partners. All is going pleasurably according to plan—until the Roman god Fanny kisses during a masquerade turns out to be Matthew, Lord Lathbury, whose proposal she refused years ago . . .

Lathbury is charming, passionate, inventive, everything Fanny wants in a lover—but unfortunately, he’s on the hunt for a wife. He’s more than willing to use all his wicked skills to persuade her back to the altar, but he can’t wait forever. And now Fanny’s position is more precarious than she once thought. If the tongues of the ton set to wagging, it’s possible no offer in the world will save her from ruin. But does she want to be saved? . . .

Read an Excerpt:

Heart pounding, Fanny ran on tiptoes in an effort to keep up with him. This was madness. Wherever was he taking her? And what on earth did he have in mind? Oh, but she knew what that was. That deep desire in his eyes told her exactly where his intentions lay. Would she allow him to have his way with her? She didn’t quite recognize him; the mask hid just enough of his face. Still he reminded her of someone. Someone who had been most dear to her what seemed a lifetime ago. But that man had left London, swearing never to return to the ton years before. He’d retreated to his country estate and had not been seen in Town for seven years.

They raced down the corridor, Pollux still in the lead, Castor right behind her. That gave her some comfort. Pollux wouldn’t ravish her in front of his brother, or friend rather. Still, the urgency of his headlong flight, dodging wide-eyed guests left and right, persuaded her that this man would stop at nothing to get her alone.

He turned a corner into a deserted hall and slowed finally. Stopping at a door on the far end, he glanced around then put his hand on the latch. “Keep watch, Cas. No one enters.”

Castor grinned. “Not a soul, Pol. My word as a gentleman.”

Pollux pushed down the latch, opened the door into a shadowy room, and drew her inside.

The flickering fireplace across the room gave the only light. Fanny’s eyes took a moment to adjust to the dimness. A moment in which Pollux pulled her hard against him, crushing her breasts against his unyielding chest. He wrapped his arms around her, pinning her to him, and sank his mouth onto hers.

About the Author:

Jenna Jaxon is a multi-published author of historical romance in all time periods because, she says, “passion is timeless.” She has been reading and writing historical romance since she was a teenager. A romantic herself, Jenna has always loved a dark side to the genre, a twist, suspense, a surprise. She tries to incorporate all of these elements into her own stories. She’s a theatre director when she’s not writing and lives in Gloucester, Virginia with her family, including two very vocal cats and one silent one.

Jenna is a PAN member of Romance Writers of America as well as an active member of Chesapeake Romance Writers, her local chapter of RWA. She has four series currently available: The House of Pleasure, set in Georgian England, Handful of Hearts, set in Regency England, and Time Enough to Love, set in medieval England and France, and The Widows’ Club series, also set in Regency England and available from Kensington Publishing in both print and digital.

She currently writes to support her chocolate habit.

Find Jenna Jaxon online:

BLOG: https://jennajaxon.wordpress.com/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Jenna_Jaxon
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenna-Jaxon/146857578723570
AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE: https://www.amazon.com/Jenna-Jaxon/e/B005CHPBD2/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1

Buy the book at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1516103297/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i6
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-a-widow-wants-jenna-jaxon/1128297334

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Goddess Fish Promotions Book Review: The Mistress of Pennington's

The Mistress of Pennington's

by Rachel Brimble

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GENRE: Saga/Romance

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BLURB:

Elizabeth Pennington should be the rightful heir of Bath's premier department store through her enterprising schemes and dogged hard work. Her father, Edward Pennington, believes his daughter lacks the business acumen to run his empire and is resolute a man will succeed him.

Determined to break from her father's iron-clad hold and prove she is worthy of inheriting the store, Elizabeth forms an unlikely alliance with ambitious and charismatic master glove-maker Joseph Carter. United they forge forward to bring Pennington's into a new decade, embracing woman's equality and progression whilst trying not to mix business and pleasure.

Can this dream team thwart Edward Pennington's plans for the store? Or will Edward prove himself an unshakeable force who will ultimately ruin both Elizabeth and Joseph?

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Excerpt:

Her gentle study drifted to his mouth and back again. ‘Did you love her? The woman you once worked with?’

Joseph stared, as disquiet whispered through him. ‘Why do you ask?’

‘I find it implausible that a man who holds women in such high regard has not known what it means to love one. You have been in love. I see it in your eyes. Unfortunately for you, they’re very revealing.’

He ran his gaze over her face and hair. Every sound muted. The amber glow of the few lit candles danced over her skin, turning it pearlescent. ‘I was married. To a wonderful, caring woman. A woman who worked beside my father and I every day after we were married.’

Her voice softened. ‘What happened to her?’

‘She died.’ He would tell her no more, the shame of his failure burned like acid in his chest and he quickly stood, wanting the intensity to ease, her justified scrutiny to end. ‘Will you try on a pair of gloves?’

He brushed past her and breathed deep as he approached a box of his finished gloves. Lifting a pair of soft kid, perfectly stitched and the exact green of her eyes, the pale cream stitching the colour of her skin.

When he turned and walked back to his bench, she had sat in his seat. She carefully watched his approach, her eyes unreadable.

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Review: Rachel Brimble is one of my favorite authors. I love her books for Harlequin Superromace, but her historical romances are even better.

This book is set in the early part of the 20th century. Its the Downton Abbey era, which is a time period that I've been reading a lot about lately. Its an era of women's suffrage. This is touched on in this book, but not as much as I thought it would be, more so was the plight of the woman trying to make her way in the world.

Women didn't have the opportunities that they have now and its wonderful to see strong women like Elizabeth making their way in a man's world and fighting to do just that. Elizabeth's father owns the department store in Bath and doesn't feel Elizabeth has what it takes to run the business. He wants a man to succeed him even though Elizabeth definitely has what it takes to take over the reigns.

The attitudes will make a modern women cringe, but it is what is in that time period. Elizabeth's father however will make you want to throw things. There is nothing nice or kind or good or even fatherly about this man. He is totally detestable.

I love the relationship between Elizabeth and Joseph. Both are totally driven in their careers and both are broken emotionally. Elizabeth from the lack of love she received at home and from her fear of having a man try to control her. Joseph is still dealing with the murder of his wife that he feels responsible for.

On top of that, they have a slow burn romance going on and they also work well together. This book really brings the department store to life. It actually made me almost miss my days working in a store after college.

This was a fabulous read and if you love learning about department store and this time period. This is a book not to be missed.

Rating: 5 flowers

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Rachel lives with her husband and two teenage daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK. Since 2007, she has had several novels published by small US presses, eight books published by Harlequin Superromance (Templeton Cove Stories) and four Victorian romances with eKensington/Lyrical.

In January 2018, she signed a four-book deal with Aria Fiction for a brand new Edwardian series set in Bath’s finest department store. The first book, The Mistress of Pennington’s, will release in July 2018.

Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America, and was selected to mentor the Superromance finalist of So You Think You Can Write 2014 contest. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Rachel with her head in a book or walking the beautiful English countryside with her family. Her dream place to live is Bourton-on-the-Water in South West England.

She likes nothing more than connecting and chatting with her readers and fellow romance writers. Rachel would love to hear from you!

Links:

http://rachelbrimble.com/

http://rachelbrimble.blogspot.com/

https://twitter.com/RachelBrimble

https://www.facebook.com/rachelbrimbleauthor/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/RachelsReaders/?fref=ts

Amazon Author Page:

https://www.amazon.com/Rachel-Brimble/e/B007829ZRM/

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1806411.Rachel_Brimble

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Rachel Brimble will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

RAFFLECOPTER CODE:

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Goddess Fish Promotions Book Tours: Lost On The Road To Love

Lost on the Road To Love

 by Kay Harris

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GENRE: Contemporary Romance

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BLURB:

On the road for eight months as part of the crew for a travel show, Chelsea Morrison expects to work hard, endure long nights, and enjoy some wicked adventures. But she doesn’t expect to fall head over heels for the show’s star.

Henry Rush, son of a legendary rock star, is leery of women. He learned early they only want him for the fame that rightly belongs to his father. But when an intense friendship with Chelsea leads to so much more, he has to confront the one thing he’s avoided all his life.

Can these two friends navigate their way to a happy ending?

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Excerpt :

“Let’s get out of here,” I suggested, scooting out of my side of the booth.

“Good idea.” Henry threw a few bills on the table, got up quickly and, to my great surprise, grabbed my hand and pulled me to the door.

We were moving fast as we approached the reporter and photographer. It wasn’t until we were squeezing past them in the doorway that the reporter spoke. “Hey, aren’t you—”

Henry ignored him and moved his large body so the photographer didn’t stand a chance of getting a good shot. Then, still holding onto my hand, he ushered me through the door and out onto the sidewalk. We moved swiftly away from the café, not looking back until we were almost a block away.

“Well done,” I said, slowly easing my hand out of Henry’s grasp.

Henry held on, giving my fingers a gentle squeeze. “I learned young how to evade the press.”

“I bet.”

“Where do you want to go?”

I looked at the buildings of Manhattan in the gray hours of early evening. The temperature was starting to drop, but it was still over seventy degrees, and for once, I was quite comfortable in my tank top and light cardigan. I had no qualms about making a long journey. “There,” I said, pointing at the Empire State Building.

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Review: It is funny that I was talking about tropes recently and I said that one of my favorites was friends to lovers. That's exactly what this book is and in spades. I loved Chelsea and Henry. Both are extremely well written and likable characters and considering the background that both were given (the children of wealthy and in Henry's case, famous parents) that's kind of hard to do. 

They both are rich kids that are trying to make their mark in the world without the help of their parents money. Both are very well grounded and stable considering their upbringing, especially Henry, with his rock star dad.

I liked that Chelsea had a crush on Henry since he was a kid. Its an interesting twist, especially since he wasn't a famous kid. Now he's trying to be a freelance writer, but also doing a reality series, that Chelsea is working on a camera woman.

I liked the development of their relationship, they just didn't fall into bed with each other, friendship came first and they had one. They even had things in common! That's something I found really amazing, because romance writers often seem to think that money and sex are all that is needed for a happily ever after.

The story was told in alternate points of view, though it is primarily stays on Chelsea's side. You see their story unfold and how they screw things up and put them back together.

This was a fantastic read and part of the Morrison series but its definitely a stand alone novel. I read it without reading the first book.

This is a great quick read!

Rating: 5 flowers

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Kay Harris has had a diverse career with jobs ranging from college professor to park ranger. Now she adds author to her repertoire. Kay writes romance novels that contain a little bit of sweet, a dash of sexy, a touch of heartbreak, and a whole lot of fun!

Kay grew up in the Midwest and has since lived all over the western United States including Montana, Wyoming, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. She loves to hike, is obsessed with museums, and enjoys taking her extremely tall and very handsome husband on adventures.

Social Media Links:

WEBSITE: http://www.kayharrisauthor.com

BLOG: https://www.kayharrisauthor.com/blog/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/KayHarrisAuthor

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKayHarris/

GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15060640.Kay_Harris

BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/kay-harris

Buy Links:

AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Road-Love-Want-Morrison-ebook/dp/B079WNH195

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lost-on-the-road-to-love-kay-harris/1127952869

AMAZON CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Lost-Road-Love-Want-Morrison-ebook/dp/B079WNH195

AMAZON UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lost-Road-Love-Kay-Harris/dp/1509219951

AMAZON AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/Lost-Road-Love-Want-Morrison-ebook/dp/B079WNH195

THE WILD ROSE PRESS: http://bit.ly/2BjHYmL

GOOGLE PLAY: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Kay_Harris_Lost_on_the_Road_to_Love?id=hkRPDwAAQBAJ

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GIVEAWAY INFORMATION and RAFFLECOPTER CODE

Kay Harris will be awarding a $25 Amazon/BN GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

RAFFLECOPTER CODE:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Goddess Fish Book Tours Book Review: Always And Forever Love

Always and Forever Love

by Lynn Crandall

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BLURB:

The presence of a ghost in her life doesn't alarm Lacy Aegar, in fact it makes her happy. Two and a half years ago when her dead husband Nicholas reappeared in her life as a full-bodied spirit, she questioned her sanity. But with Nicholas' explanation that there are things about life that are not as she's always believed, she settled into a pleasant routine of working with her sister at their private investigation business and enjoying home life with her now 10-year-old son – with Nicholas never very far away.

Lacey's complacency and sense of stability is sent topsy-turvy when she runs into Jackson Carter, the son of powerful and influential business tycoon, William Carter. Typical of the Carter reputation, Jackson's slick new private investigating business is siphoning off clients from the Aegar sisters' business, creating financial difficulty. It's a recurring nightmare for Lacey, who has already seen damage done by the Carter family, and when she encounters Jackson, she wants nothing to do with him.

But things are not what they seem when it comes to Jackson Carter, either. Unbeknownst to Lacey and her sister, Jackson is fighting a battle to preserve his business, too, and his integrity. For him, it's a fight for his soul, and he enlists Lacey's help because of her unique investigative skills and open heart. When she uncovers a mole in his business, she also discovers that one of his clients' drug trials has been given the green light to go to the next phase based on falsified data. As they work together to save both their businesses, Jackson and Lacey not only face death, they must come to grips with their feelings about love and life.

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Excerpt :

She couldn’t imagine what he wanted. He seemed completely composed, except for the indications that he wasn’t. She decided to dive in. “So, Jackson, what’s on your mind? Is this a meeting? Are you still going to offer me a job?”

He fumbled with his napkin, his eyes still downcast and his voice soft. “To be honest, asking you to stay with me came out kind of spur-of-the-moment.” His gaze lifted, and he

continued, almost hesitantly. “I want you to know, Lacey, that though I don’t like your opinion of me, I understand. But unlike you, I have been thinking about you.”

Parts of her drew down to complete absorption with the moment between them. It was mesmerizing to listen to his words and feel his sincere need to convey the right message. She didn’t speak, feeling if she did, something inside him would break.

Which was silly. Jackson Carter was anything but fragile. Or so she believed. The idea that she believed she knew him from his father’s works made her shoulders tighten. His gaze flicked around the room, but landed back on her face.

“I’m not going to bore you with details about my past and my family. I think what I want you to know is that I am not my father. I have things to amend for, if only because of my blindness. But the truth is, I woke up about four years ago. I chose another path, and I did it simply because I didn’t belong on the path I was on. It didn’t fit. My father is a liar and a cruel person. There’s only so far I could go with him before I had to say enough is enough.”

Lacey felt like there was no one else in the room. His words carried weight and she knew the moment was sacred. He bared his soul, with no expectation of anything but the hope of understanding. She had to ask. “Why are you telling me this?”

He chuckled. “Good question. Nothing like laying it all out there when we hardly know each other.”

She let the moment hang, waiting for a sincere answer, not knowing if he had it in him.

There is a lot of regret in me. I feel the weight of my legacy. My values have not so much changed, as I’ve come to grips with reality. That’s a hard truth that not many people can appreciate.” He sipped his coffee and again shifted his gaze around the room, but she knew he didn’t see it. “You see things. You see things people miss. I just want you to know that I know much goes before me. It sounds clichéd, but I am different. Maybe you can see that and give me a second chance.”

It was easy to pick up that he carried deep feelings, some of them tender and painful. Lacey understood how devastating—as well as completely life changing—awareness of awful truths could be. Still, she knew firsthand of the shattering that could occur at the hands of the Carter family. She couldn’t forget that.

“Speechless, huh?” He tried to shrug off the intensity of his admission, dipping his head and suddenly busying with the saltshaker. “What do you say to something like that? I’m sorry I put you in that position.”

Again with the defenses? “Jackson. Stop. Can I say something now?” She ducked her head to catch his gaze. “I see that you’re sincere. Thank you for that. And you’re right. I know all about what your family has done to people in this town and out in the world. Your father is a very powerful and influential man. He could have done much good, but he didn’t. He’s put people out of work, destroyed their reputations, ruined lives of people I care about. How do I get beyond that? Why would I want to? Your family is dangerous.” She trembled with memories of the ills caused by William Carter. How could Jackson ask anything of her?

He squared her with his eyes again. “I need your help with finding out why my business is running into so many problems…"

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

REVIEW:

If I thought I was going to be reading a normal novel of romantic suspense, boy would I have been wrong, but when I saw that there was a ghost involved in this story, I had to make sure I read this one. I love ghosts.

The ghost is Lacey's husband who died a few years back. That's what makes the story a bit more interesting. It is really about her letting go. That's mostly what the first part of this book is about, and for some, it could be slow, but it really sets up the story for you, so you know what type of woman Lacey is.

Then there's the relationship that starts with Jackson and Lacey, two people you wouldn't think would get together. I really liked both characters a lot. Both have things they need to work though, with Jackson, it is his relationship with his manipulative dad.

There was one thing that surprised me about this book. It wasn't your typical suspense novel. In fact it was more or less a mystery. When I think suspense, I think Harlequin Intrigues with the same old plot. Woman is on the run from a bad man who is trying to kill her and a military type swoops in to save the day. Lynn, gives us a heroine that stands on her own and guess what? She saves the day too, without being bumbling or simpering. She's a tough woman with a vulnerable side, and she knows how to do her job. (Sometimes her PI skills remind me a bit of Sherlock)

So glad, this wasn't like that. It was a corporate mystery and that was something  refreshing to me.

I really enjoyed this book.

Rating: 4 flowers

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Lynn Crandall lives in the Midwest and writes in the company of her two cats. She has been a reader and a writer all her life. Her background is in journalism, but whether writing a magazine or newspaper story or creating a romance, she loves the power stories hold to transport, inspire, and uplift. In her romances, she focuses on vulnerable, embraceable characters who don't back down. She hopes that readers discover, over and over, stories of ordinary people who face ordinary life challenges and are transformed by extraordinary love.

Links:

http://www.amazon.com/Lynn-Crandall/e/B00AX9OA40/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/always-and-forever-love-lynn-crandall/1117506755?ean=9781440574733

www.lynn-crandall.com

@lynncrandall246

https://www.facebook.com/LynnCrandallAuthor?ref=hl

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Goddess Fish Book Tours: Syndey Rye Series

SYDNEY RYE SERIES

by Emily Kimelman

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BLURB:

Books 1-3, The complete Series Box Set (Value Pack)

The Sydney Rye series of mysteries features a strong female protagonist and her rescue dog, Blue. This series is recommended for the 18+ who enjoy some violence, don't mind dirty language, and are up for a dash of sex. Not to mention an awesome, rollicking good mystery!

This box set includes all three of the Sydney Rye Books.

UNLEASHED (A Sydney Rye Novel, #1)

When the series begins Sydney Rye is named Joy Humbolt. She does not like people telling her what to do, so it comes as no surprise that she was just fired from her last job. When she buys Charlene Miller's dog-walking business on Manhattan's exclusive upper east side, it seems like the perfect fit: Quiet environment, minimal contact with people.

But then one of her clients turns up dead, and Charlene disappears. Rumors say Charlene was having an affair with the victim--and of course, everyone assumes Joy must know where she is. Joy begins to look into the crime, first out of curiosity then out of anger when there is another murder and threats start to come her way.

When police detective Mulberry is assigned to the case, Joy finds a kindred spirit--cynical and none-too-fond of the human race. As they dig deep into the secrets of Manhattan's elite, they not only get closer to the killer but also to a point of no return. One last murder sends Joy Humbolt hurtling over the edge. Her only chance of survival is to become Sydney Rye.

DEATH IN THE DARK (A Sydney Rye Novella, #2)

At the beginning of Death in the Dark we find Joy Humbolt hiding, not only from the law, but also from her past and the mistakes she's made. Living this isolated life doesn't last long though when a visit from Mulberry brings Joy to accept her new identity as the Private Detective, Sydney Rye. To complete the transformation, Joy must learn to control her emotions as well as her giant aggressive dog, Blue. With the help of an expert trainer, Joy learns to fight with her mind as well as her body. However, when the daughter of a close friend is brutally murdered in the desert, Rye turns away from her mentor to seek revenge. Sydney's quick temper and deadly intentions lead her into a trap that she will need all of her new skills to survive.

INSATIABLE (A Sydney Rye Novel, #3)

The third book in the series begins with private detective Sydney Rye living a simple, disciplined life in London, but when a dangerous man from her past calls, Rye finds she cannot turn him away. Robert Maxim explains that the daughter of a powerful friend has gone missing and he wants Rye to find her. In exchange he offers her something she had given up hope of ever having; freedom from her past.

With her dog, Blue, at her side, Rye meets up with her new partner, a handsome man she's not sure she can trust. Heading for Mexico City, they go undercover, posing as husband and wife. After meeting with the bereaved parents, Rye starts to sense that there is more going on than just a missing girl. But it isn't until they arrive in the Yucatan Peninsula, hot on the girl's trail in Paradise, that all hell breaks loose. Sydney has to reach out for help from old friends and deal with the consequences of her past, if she's going to find the girl and keep them all alive.

New release!  STRINGS OF GLASS (A Sydney Rye Novel, #4)

STRINGS OF GLASS is the fourth novel in Emily Kimelman's Sydney Rye Series of dark murder mystery novels. This series features a strong female protagonist and her rescue dog, Blue. It is recommended for the 18+ who enjoy some violence, don't mind dirty language, and are up for a dash of sex. Not to mention an awesome, rollicking good mystery!

Sydney Rye is hanging out in India with her boyfriend, Dan, reading paperbacks and sipping beer. No violence and no reminders of her past. But when she and Blue, are attacked by a pact of wild dogs, Sydney starts to feel that old itch again; to do good by being bad.

Trouble finds Rye when she stops the attempted rape and murder of Anita, a reporter working on a story of corruption and human trafficking. The atrocities Anita describes send Sydney, Blue and Dan on a quest that takes them across India after a dangerous and, up until now, untouchable, figure. While Sydney struggles to accept her true nature she realizes that it is the only way to end decades of abuse and exploitation. But Rye fears that she will lose herself, becoming no better than the monster she fights against.

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EXCERPT

From UNLEASHED (A Sydney Rye Novel, #1)

EXCERPT ONE:

The sun was slipping behind the brownstones across the street and turning the sky pink when I left for Nancy’s. “Hey,” said the guy on the corner who always said hey. I ignored him. “Hey, pretty lady, you got a beautiful ass,” he tried again. I watched the concrete and power-walked away.

Ten minutes later I was at Nancy’s, a low-key lesbian bar with a nice backyard. If you wanted to talk to a stranger you could, but there was no pressure. If you wanted to take someone home you could, but again there was no pressure.

“Tequila gimlet, straight up,” I said. The bartender, whose name I was pretty sure was Diane, nodded and moved off to make my drink. My face, reflected in the mirror behind the bar, peered from between a bottle of Blue Curacao and Midori. I needed a haircut. My fashionable bangs had grown out, and now I just pushed them behind my ears. Last night’s fight with Marcus and my early-morning journey to the pound had left puffy, blue-tinted circles under my eyes. All those tears had left the white around my gray irises streaked with red and—I leaned forward a little to make sure—my upper eyelids a bizarre orange.

Diane placed a martini glass brimming with sheer red liquid on the bar, and I handed her a ten. I moved toward the backyard, trying not to spill my drink all over my hand while spilling my drink all over my hand.

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Emily Kimelman lives on a boat in the Hudson Valley with her husband, Sean and their dog Kinsey (named after Sue Grafton's Kinsey Millhone). Kimelman has a passion for traveling and spends as much time as possible in the pursuit of adventure.

Her "Sydney Rye Series" are dark murder mystery novels which features a strong female protagonist and her rescue dog, Blue. This series is recommended for the 18+ who enjoy some violence, don't mind dirty language, and are up for a dash of sex. Not to mention an awesome, rollicking good mystery!

The first three books in Kimelman's series, UNLEASHED, DEATH IN THE DARK, and INSATIABLE are available in the Kindle store individually and in a box set. The fourth book in the Sydney Rye series STRINGS OF GLASS is due out Mid-Summer 2013.

If you've read Emily's work, and enjoyed it, please let Emily know. You can reach her via email ejkimelman@gmail.com

http://emilykimelman.wordpress.com/

https://www.facebook.com/EmilyKimelman

@ejkimelman

Buy links for all books at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Emily-Kimelman/e/B004YG4PPC/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

Barnes and Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/c/emily-kimelman

Follow The Tour: http://goddessfishpromotions.blogspot.com/2013/08/nbtm-tour-sydney-rye-series-by-emily.html

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