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Down to My Soul by Kennedy Ryan: Release Blitz and Giveaway!

Thursday, March 31, 2016
Release Banner DTMS
Down to My Soul concludes the journey Rhyson Gray and Kai Pearson began in Book 1 of the Soul Series, My Soul to Keep! You must read Book 1 first.

Release Week Pricing

Both Books 99¢ This Week

DTMS Cover
RHYSON
She doesn't wear my ring. We never stood before a preacher. The only vows exchanged were between our bodies; between our souls. But she was mine and I was hers until I ruined it. I have to believe that every day, every step, every breath brings me closer to making things right. To making her mine again. KAI I've seen promises broken. I know love makes no guarantees. But things were different for Rhys and me, until he lied, and I walked away. Only there's a chain between our hearts that I can't break. Even if I forgive him, a shadow from my past hangs over us; over this love that reaches all the way down to my soul.
Book 2 - Down to My Soul
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/1530629187/ref=cm_sw_su_dp
B&N: Pending Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/down-to-my-soul GR ➔ http://tinyurl.com/hvyhqaf
My Soul to Keep AMAZON
Book 1 - My Soul to Keep
*Add the Audio Book for only $1.99!
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Release Week Giveaway!
($10 Amazon Gift Card, Rhys + Kai mason jar glass, Reader's Choice Kennedy Signed Paperback)
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About Kennedy Ryan
I just can't write about myself in third person for one more bio! I'm a wife, a mom, a writer, an advocate for families living with autism. That's me in a nutshell. Crack the nut, and you'll find a Southern girl gone Southern California who loves pizza and Diet Coke, and wishes she got to watch a lot more television. You can usually catch me up too late, on social media too much, or FINALLY putting a dent in my ever-growing To Be Read list! I love to hear from readers at kennedyryanwrites@gmail.com.  
Let's Connect!
 
  This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Dead Girl by Tessa Marie: Release Day Blitz!


Dead Girl by Tessa Marie
Release Day Blitz
March 31, 2016

DG Final


If her mother wasn’t watching, Kylie Presby would punch Queen Bee, Natalie Silvers, in the face -again. But as Kylie wipes her tears away with the layers of toilet paper encasing her car, she knows she can’t retaliate like she did last time. Her dead mother wouldn’t approve. Kylie no longer cares about popularity. Invisible would work just fine.
Then the new kid, Braydon, mysterious, good looking and too clever for his own good, shows up and sacrifices his social status, becoming Kylie’s shield from the front line assault. After enough chocolate ice cream and movies it’s as if they’re best friends. Crazy, since Kylie knows so little about him.
As Natalie continues her relentless attacks on Kylie another person deals with his own line of bullies. Jack Stine was popular until his deepest secret was revealed and his friends abandoned him. Kylie and Jack bond over their tormentors and form an unbreakable friendship.
Three lost souls each with a story that binds them together, but will it be enough when the bullying goes too far and secrets are revealed?




~*~ABOUT TESSA~*~

IMG_8057

Tessa Marie aka Theresa Paolo lives on Long Island, NY with her fiancé and their fish. She is the author of NA and YA contemporary romances. Her debut novel (NEVER) AGAIN, released in Fall 2013 with Berkley (Penguin) and the companion novel (ONCE) AGAIN released Summer 2014. Both her books HOME IS WHERE YOU ARE and PROVE ME WRONG are Amazon bestsellers. She is also the coauthor of the Amazon bestselling Beds Series. She has a hard time accepting the fact she’s in her early thirties (very early), and uses her characters to relive the best and worst years of her life. She put her love of writing on hold while she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from Dowling College. When she’s not writing, she’s behind a camera, reading, watching Vampire Diaries and Pretty Little Liars, or can be found on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

One Pink Rose by Julie Garwood: Review and Giveaway!

Wednesday, March 30, 2016
THE CLAYBORNES ARE BACK! AND LOVE IS IN BLOOM! — First introduced in Julie Garwood's magnificent New York Times bestseller For the Roses, which inspired the Hallmark Hall of Fame television film Rose Hill, the Clayborne brothers of Blue Belle, Montana, have been embraced by millions worldwide. Now Julie Garwood spins the individual stories of these three spirited brothers -- once a mismatched gang of street urchins -- in a trio of special novels that begins with One Pink Rose.

Travis Clayborne may be the youngest of the Clayborne brothers, but he's most definitely his own man. Unless it means saying no to his beloved Mama Rose. And that's why Travis is escorting young Bostonian Emily Finnegan to Golden Crest, Montana -- where she'll discover what awaits her as a mail-order bride. Emily has made it perfectly clear that she's taken charge of her destiny and nothing is going to interfere. Falling in love with the perfect stranger isn't part of her plan, but the journey with Travis across this beautiful, rugged land opens her eyes... and her heart. Perhaps her destiny isn't exactly as she imagined.

Goodreads Summary

I grew up reading Julie Garwood and this novel is just as wonderful as its predecessors.  The book is part of a series based around the Clayborne brothers.  It's best to read For the Roses prior to get a grasp of Travis's character and the supporting characters who reappear in this novella.  Travis and Emily are the focus of this book.  Emily is promised to another and Travis is meant to deliver her to another man.  On the journey, the argumentative pair grow closer and slowly begin to enjoy each other's smart remarks.  Travis isn't completely convinced that Emily's suitor is the right fit for her.

Emily is a spunky, fun heroine playing the part of typical female romance character.  Travis is the hot-headed, quick-witted, sexy hero who is going to change her world.  I have to admit, these two characters are not the strongest, but I do love the typical romance.  Not every book has to be completely unique and different to be a fun and exciting read.  The pair also aren't part of the "insta-love" fan group which is a huge plus.  Overall, this book is recommended to adult romance readers.

4 Stars



A “reception line” of great reading shows who has wedding season in their POCKET!

New York Times bestselling author Julie Garwood and USA Today bestselling author Lauren Layne are leading ladies of romance who will lead readers down the aisle this wedding season!

ONE PINK ROSE by Julie Garwood
This summer, Julie Garwood’s three stories of the Clayborne brothers will be available à la carte as separate EBooks. Look for One Pink Rose (POCKET Star EBooks; May 9, 2016; $1.99), followed by One White Rose (POCKET Star EBooks; June 13, 2016; $2.99) and One Red Rose (POCKET Star EBooks; July 11, 2016; $2.99). Julie Garwood “knows how to reach out and touch readers’ hearts” with this “laugh-out-loud little read…all delight, pure fun, and yummy” (RT Book Review).

Buy buttons for One Pink Rose:

FROM THIS DAY FORWARD by Lauren Layne
Sample the e-prequel tasty appetizer to The Wedding Belles series by Lauren Layne, From This Day Forward (POCKET Star EBooks; June 6, 2016; $1.99). Follow it up with three delectable courses: To Have and to Hold (POCKET Books paperback; July 26, 2016; $5.99), For Better or Worse (POCKET Books paperback; August 30, 2016; $5.99), and To Love and to Cherish (POCKET Books paperback; October 18, 2016; $5.99). Sex and the City meets The Wedding Planner in this prequel to The Wedding Belles series!

Buy buttons for From This Day Forward:

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This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

The Return of the Witch by Paula Brackston: Giveaway (3 copies USA/CAN)


Paula Brackston's debut novel, The Witch's Daughter, was the little book that could―with a captivating story, remarkable heroine, and eye-catching package, it has now netted over 200,000 copies in all formats. Now Paula returns with its sequel The Return of the Witch, another bewitching tale of love and magic, featuring her signature blend of gorgeous writing, a fabulous and intriguing historical backdrop, and a headstrong and relatable heroine readers will cheer for.

After five years in the Summerlands, Gideon has gained his freedom. Elizabeth knows he will go straight for Tegan, and that she must protect the girl she had come to regard as her own daughter. In the time since she the dramatic night in Batchcombe woods, Tegan has travelled the world learning from all manner of witches, and she is no longer the awkward teenager and novice spellcaster she once was. However, her skills are no match for Gideon's dark, vengeful power, and he succeeds in capturing her. Will Elizabeth be able to find her? Will they be able to defeat their nemisis once and for all?

In a breathless journey that takes them through history, witch pursues warlock. Three people steeped in magic weave a new story, but not all will survive until the end.

Goodreads Summary

GIVEAWAY:

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This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Playing the Game by Shawnte Borris: Blitz!

Playing the GamePlaying the Game, Derek Backhard by Shawnte Borris

Release Date: March 30, 2016

Genre: Romance

Tour Dates: March 30, 2016

Playing the Game
Since being drafted by the NHL to play for his home team at age nineteen, Derek Backhard has had everything he's ever dreamed of - unrivaled MVP mentions, countless goals and assists, even being compared to the great one. Holding the power to control his future in the palm of his hands, nothing stood in his way.
Until the unthinkable happened, and everything about his life shifted. Past priorities fell away the moment he held baby Ryder in his arms mere moments after losing his close friend, and Ryder's father, Brad.
After weeks of watching Liz fall apart over the loss of her husband as she struggled to adjust to life as a single parent, Derek vows to give her and Ryder everything they deserve, creating a life he never knew he always wanted.
Rocked to her core by her changing feelings for him, Liz doesn’t know what to do with Derek or his offer. Uncertainty swirls within her as she leans on her lifelong friend during the hard times, but how much of his attention is real, and how much is pity?
Is she strong enough to let him in and let him take care of her, or will she force him away and back into the life she thinks he really wants?

Buy on iBooks

TradeCardteaser7teaser1All about the Author

Shawnte is an international bestselling romance author with her Falling for Bentley series. She hales from central Alberta, Canada. Where she is a mother of two and co-owns a cow/calf operation with her husband of twelve years. As much as she fusses about farming, she enjoys the rural living lifestyle it offers.
When Shawnté is not sitting at her kitchen table hammering away on her laptop while watching the moose chase her cows across the yard, yes this really happens. Then she is busy attend school activities, community events and chauffeuring children here and there. She is big on playing softball and watching hockey.
When the time comes to relax, you will find her snuggled underneath her down comforter reading on her Ipad. Wait…who are we kidding, if the dishes, vacuuming, laundry or the bathrooms needs a hose down, you’ll always hear her say, “Just after this chapter.” She doesn’t have a favorite author or best story because everyday she falls in love with someone new.
You will find Shawnte on Facebook, Twitter and TSU. Please go like her page and leave a review/star rating on the books she’s wrote that you fell in love with.

Facebook - Website - Twitter Wrap Playing the Game

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Making Manna by Eric Lotke: Q&A and Promo!

Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Libby Thompson is just fourteen years old when she flees her abusive home with her newborn son, Angel. Now they must build a life for themselves on hard work and low wages, dealing with police who are sometimes helpful-but not always-and a drug dealer who is full of surprises. As Angel gets older, he begins asking questions about his family, and Libby's tenuous peace threatens to crumble. Can a son without a father and a young woman without a past make something beautiful out of a lifetime of secrets? Making Manna explores the depths of betrayal, and the human capacity to love, flourish, and forgive in the face of heartbreaking odds. 

Goodreads Summary

1.    Who is your favorite author? Favorite book?
I don’t really have favorites. My tastes are diverse and changing. I enjoy biographies by Doris Kearns Goodwin and political science by Jacob Hacker.

The best novel I read lately was The Master Butchers Singing Club by Louise Erdrich. It’s copyright 2002 but the setting is America post WWI and the characters are timeless. Men We Reaped by Jesmyn Ward was a highlight of 2015 and I expect it to last a while. It’s the memoir of an African American woman in low-income America. All of the men important in her life disappear over a couple of years — shot, drugged, suicide or jailed. But somehow the police who happily patrol the neighborhood every night with searchlights can’t manage even to arrest the drunk white driver who kills her brother.

I’ve also been delighted to re-read John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars. The first time was on my daughter’s recommendation. The second time was voluntary after seeing the movie.


2.    What book are you reading now?
I just started Viral by Emily Mitchell. It’s a collection of short stories and I’ve only read a few so I don’t have an opinion yet. But it came highly recommended and the first story is terrific. It’s about a small business where the staff are measured, marked, ranked and made miserable because they aren’t smiling enough.


3.    What inspired you to write Making Manna?
Trigger warning. This story has a really bad beginning.

Twenty years ago I was working on a death penalty case. The young man on death row was the product of an incestuous rape. I wrote those words in his social history — “product of an incestuous rape.” The phrase was so distasteful that I horrified even myself. The case came and went but those words stuck with me.

Years later, I wanted to write something hopeful and uplifting. The world is a mess. I wanted to say something nice.

So I went back to that kid. I started there but gave him a different ending. I took the worst beginning I could imagine and turned it into something positive.


4.    What was your particular process in terms of outlining, plot and character?
I had a beginning in mind, from that death penalty case. And I had an end in mind. But I wasn’t sure how to get there.

I found that I could always and only see a few chapters in advance. So I would tell the story that far, then taking that as the baseline, outline what happens next – with the endpoint in mind. The characters and internal details developed as they went.


5.    Where is your favorite place to write?
I am opportunistic in time and space. I work full time and I have two kids. I drive them to practices, lessons and activities – and have an hour or two to write while I wait. When I was lucky, I’d have a whole half-day at home on a weekend. It mattered that I wasn’t on deadline. If I needed time to figure something out or went a month without a free minute, that was okay. I always keep a notebook handy. My creativity is better than my memory.


6.    What was your favorite part about writing the book?
This was really interesting. When I wrote a scene that was happy and light, I was in a better mood at bedtime. When I wrote a scene that was dark or dreary, I wasn’t as joyful in real life. Putting myself into the mood to create the scene expanded beyond the page.

I suppose it went the other way, too. One weekend I had a lot of time to write and I was looking forward writing the scene that came next. I expected it to be happy and triumphant. As it turned out, I was a little blue that weekend. Maybe I had a cold, something was wrong at work or the kids were annoying. Whatever. I don’t recall. But I remember being a little down as I started … and it is quite clear that this fundamentally happy scene has a melancholy undertow. I always wonder if that undertow was inherent in the material and it would have been there anyway, or if it reflects my temper over the weekend.

In any case, I quite like the complexity and I never sought to iron it out.


7.    Why did you decide to write from the perspective of Libby rather than her son, Angel?
The book begins from Libby’ point of view. Angel is a baby. Yes, he’s occasionally cute, but he’s more of a prop than a character. Mostly he’s a logistical problem that needs diapers and daycare. Starting in Part Two the story moves to Angel’s point of view, and it ages with him from kindergarten to high school. In the end the two points of view come together. Now they’re equals.

One smart reader described it as a “coming of age” story of both the mother and son at the same time. I think that’s exactly right. Libby was so young when he was born! She has so much to figure out, and so does he. I think changing the point of view helps bring that development to life.


8.    Libby comes from a tough background but manages to work hard and support her family. How accurate do you think her life is compared to a real-life girl in her situation? What research did you do to keep the novel grounded?
All of her problems are real. She has a bad boss and not enough money, and she’s (justifiably) afraid of the police. She solves her problems in ways that are always credible and based on real world experience. I readily admit, however, that her success is unlikely.  Does one in five people like her succeed? One in twenty? A hundred? I want to show the hopeful possibility – while also making it clear that life is hard and the odds are against her.

Good luck makes a difference, too. Libby meets Sheila at the outset, and her health stays good. She gives the good luck back, though, doing favors for others. I think it’s honest to show that luck makes a difference. That’s not a novelist’s trick.


9.    Sheila and her husband have a bad experience with the prison system. Does this aspect of the plot come from your experience as a lawyer?
Absolutely. That’s the heart of the story. Typical fiction shows us courtroom dramas with cutting cross examinations and explosive closing arguments. My personal experience brings you people with really bad lawyers who accept really bad plea bargains. Justice on TV is about crime labs and DNA exonerations. The real justice system is about kids who miss their parents in prison, and cops who book you so they can bill overtime on your court date.


10. How else did your career influence the book?
Can you tell that I once earned my living as a chef?

More importantly, my life as a parent influenced the book. It would have been a different book if I weren’t a dad.


11. Libby talks about one day getting her GED and maybe even going to college. What would be her major in college?
Heavens! I don’t know. I’d have to put her in college, have her meet some people, take some classes and live some college experiences … then she’d be in a position to decide.

During the story, a supporting character decides to go to college. As an author I was struggling to decide what college she should go to. So instead of thinking, I worked it out as a story.

First, I knew she was on a tight budget and could only afford a small number of application fees. Second, the logic of her situation defined her choices, for example, her state school. Third, her profile as a candidate determined which schools would admit her and under what terms. In the end she made a choice that followed naturally from the options available.

The point is that instead of deciding where she should go to school from a big fat Barron’s book, I just followed the situation to its conclusion. It feels real because it is.


12. What do you hope readers will take away from Making Manna?
First, I want readers to have a good time. Escapism is okay. You deserve a break today. You bought my book: I owe you a good time.

But I also want readers to reflect on the understory and worry about the injustice, especially in the justice system. The obvious problem is bad cops and excessive prison terms. The subtler problem is that people who need protection don’t get it, and people who’ve been hurt don’t get help. That’s a different failing of our justice system. I explore those failings and show a different way out.


13. Do you plan to write a sequel?
I hadn’t planned to, but people have asked and now I’m tempted. A plot is starting to take shape. I have another book in mind, too. It depends, of course, on how this book is received.



This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Lucky Penny be L.A. Cotton: Sale for .99 Cents and Promo!

Sunday, March 27, 2016

I was his lucky Penny. He was my light in the dark, hope in despair. Our bond was one of survival, friendship... first love.

But then we were ripped apart and Blake Weston became the memory I turned to when everything else in my life fell apart.

Seven years later, a summer working at Camp Chance is supposed to be my fresh start. Beautiful scenery and the chance to better the lives of foster children - kids like me. But when my eyes land on him across the fire, time stands still and feelings come rushing back to the surface. I thought I'd moved on, tucked him away in my heart. One look into his soulful blue eyes and I know I'm wrong. Blake Weston can heal the broken parts of me. Restore my hope. Love me.

It's our second chance. A sign we are supposed to be together.

Isn't it?

I was twelve when I survived the accident that killed my parents. Fourteen when I survived the devil. And sixteen, when I survived a heartbreak of the worst kind.

But in my twenty-three years, Blake Weston might just be the first thing I won't survive.

WARNING: This book contains references to abuse that some readers may find distressing.





“Oh, come on, Penny. I know you two have a rough history, but it’s just that, history. In the past. You can’t let your past dictate your future. Mold you, sure, but define you? Nuh-uh! The Penny I’ve watched grow over the last couple of months is stronger than that.”

Was I?

Most days, I didn’t feel it.

I’d made progress, sure, but the truth was that I was still tethered to the ghosts of my past in ways I hadn’t even realized until I saw Blake again.

So much pain tainted our story, I didn’t know if we could rewrite ourselves a new ending… or beginning.

“You’re overthinking this.” Marissa took my hand in hers. “I’ve watched the two of you together. Everything you felt for Blake all of those years ago is still there. It’s written all over your face every time you look at him. And I don’t doubt for a second that it’s the same for him.”

Warmth spread into my cheeks, and I dropped my eyes. Why couldn’t I just be normal instead of damaged and confused and terrified to step out of the shadows?

Why couldn’t I let myself live in the moment for once.

“I know you’re scared,” Marissa went on. “And that’s okay. But tell me one thing, Penny. Can you live with yourself if you leave here without giving him a chance? A real chance?”

I looked over at the lake where Blake’s group was attempting to cross the water on homemade rafts. His polo shirt clung to his chest as he helped a boy onto the floatation device.

“Well, can you?”

Could I?

Blake had healed me once, and then he had broken me in a way from which I never truly recovered. But somewhere over the last two months, he had started to put me back together. Piece by piece. My head had warned me, tried to keep me away, but my heart recognized him. They called to each other, sought each other out.

Blake already owned my heart.

He always had.

But could I give him my damaged soul as well?



5 STARS
“Wonderful story of love and friendship” ~ By Mollien Osterman Alpha Book Club

5 STARS
Perfectly Heartwarming” ~ By Sarah Griffin

5 STARS
L.A Cotton never fails to surprise me with her amazing stories. First there was the Fate's Love Series, then came Chastity Falls series (oh, Jackson) and then Lucky Penny.”  ~ By Jade!

5 STAR
“A Great Second Chance Read .” “ I loved this story. It is so beautifully written. …If second chance loves stories with angst are your thing, . . “ ~ By Renee







Loyalty and Lies (Chastity Falls #1)



Coming Soon TBR IT

Chastity Falls: Box Set 1-3




Fate's Love Series (The Complete Box Set)

Deliverance (The Maverick Defense Series #1)






Contemporary romance and romantic suspense ... written with feeling

L.A is author of contemporary romance novels ranging from sweet with just a hint of steam, to suspenseful reads full of angst, tension, twists and turns. Home is a small town in the middle of England where she currently juggles being a full-time mum to two little people with writing. In her spare time (and when she's not camped out in front of the laptop) you'll most likely find L. A immersed in a book, escaping the chaos that is life.

Official Website
L A loves connecting with readers. The best places to find her are:
Or you can email her at:
contact@lacotton.com






This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Odyssey Adventure Club (OAC)

Saturday, March 26, 2016
Spring-into-Faith-&-Fun

If your family is like most, breakfast is rushed to get everyone out the door. Lunch is spent at school or work. So where does that leave dinner? Nourish your family's spiritual health as you eat supper together. Adventures in Odyssey and Odyssey Adventure Club want to give you a free resource to help you begin your new dinner tradition of making the most of your family mealtime, beginning this Easter season. Simply head to this page and fill out the form to receive a free sample of Whit's End Mealtime Devotions.

90-Devotions-for-Kids-Quote-4 

Want new resources to continue to build your family's faith, even after Easter is over? Consider signing your family up for the Odyssey Adventure Club (OAC). It offers safe and free content for everyone in your family. Membership to the OAC costs just $9.99 a month — or even less if parents make a six-month or one-year commitment. Enrollment provides more than enough content to keep kids engaged throughout the year:
  • Access to exclusive content and first looks at books and select Radio Theatre dramas.
  • On-the-go access to the OAC app for both iOS and Android users.
  • 24/7 streaming access to nearly 800 AIO episodes.
  • A new, members-only AIO episode every month.
  • A subscription to Adventures in Odyssey Clubhouse Magazine, and more.
To learn more about the Odyssey Adventure Club, visit www.oaclub.org, Facebook, Twitter. and Pinterest.

 This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Girl Last Seen by Heather Anastasiu and Anne Greenwood Brown

Kadence Mulligan's star was rising. She and her best friend, Lauren DeSanto, watched their songs go viral on YouTube, then she launched a solo career when a nasty throat infection paralyzed Lauren's vocal chords. Everyone knows Lauren and Kadence had a major falling-out over Kady's boyfriend. But Lauren knows how deceptive Kadence could be sometimes. And nobody believes Lauren when she claims she had nothing to do with the disappearance. Or the blood evidence As the town and local media condemns Lauren, she realizes the only way to clear her name is to discover the truth herself. Lauren slowly unravels the twisted life of Kadence Mulligan and sees that there was more to her than she ever knew. But will she realize she's unknowingly playing a part in an elaborate game to cover up a crime before it's too late?"

Goodreads Summary

If you enjoy mysteries then you'll find this a quick read.  Kadence (so punny for this musical book!) and Lauren were very successful when they sang together, but they turn into frenemies.  Kadence treated Lauren horribly and wasn't a very nice character, in general.  It wasn't fun to read about such a colossal bully.  The book has four different viewpoints and, at times, it was a little difficult to piece together.  The authors were masters at keeping me guessing and subtly suggesting different perpetrators as to who made Kadence disappear.  I really thought that the ending was surprising and that I wouldn't have necessarily guessed it.  

Kadence's character wasn't a favorite of mine.  She was nasty, pushy, and the stereotypical mean girl.  Lauren was kinder, but I don't know if I would want her as a friend either.  There were a lot of surprising twists in this book and the characters seemed to develop with the twists.  I found the plot intriguing and I was surprised that the mystery was drawn out for so long (although it was gratifying in the end).  Overall, this book is recommended to young adult/adult readers.

3 1/2 Stars

This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Smolder by Karen Erickson: Cover Reveal

Thursday, March 24, 2016


About SMOLDER (on sale from Avon Impulse June 21, 2016)
Lane Gallagher wants Delilah Moore-bad.

He's imagined the sexy brunette in his bed more times than he can count.

She's everything he's ever wanted, but the only problem is…

She's his brother's ex.

For years, the stoic sheriff's deputy has fantasized about the sweet, bubbly dance teacher who stirs his deepest desires. But Lane's too loyal to ever move in on forbidden territory and he knows that while he can look, he definitely can't touch. Fighting his attraction to Delilah is nearly impossible, but the infuriating-and incredibly sexy-woman seems determined to drive him crazy.

And she's bringing him to his knees. One smoldering kiss at a time. 

BUY LINKS


This product or book may have been distributed for review, this in no way affects my opinions or reviews. COPYRIGHT © 2014 LIVE TO READ

Return of the Witch by Paula Brackston

Paula Brackston's debut novel, The Witch's Daughter, was the little book that could―with a captivating story, remarkable heroine, and eye-catching package, it has now netted over 200,000 copies in all formats. Now Paula returns with its sequel The Return of the Witch, another bewitching tale of love and magic, featuring her signature blend of gorgeous writing, a fabulous and intriguing historical backdrop, and a headstrong and relatable heroine readers will cheer for.

After five years in the Summerlands, Gideon has gained his freedom. Elizabeth knows he will go straight for Tegan, and that she must protect the girl she had come to regard as her own daughter. In the time since she the dramatic night in Batchcombe woods, Tegan has travelled the world learning from all manner of witches, and she is no longer the awkward teenager and novice spellcaster she once was. However, her skills are no match for Gideon's dark, vengeful power, and he succeeds in capturing her. Will Elizabeth be able to find her? Will they be able to defeat their nemisis once and for all?

In a breathless journey that takes them through history, witch pursues warlock. Three people steeped in magic weave a new story, but not all will survive until the end.

Goodreads Summary

If you have read the first book in this series, this book picks up a few years after "The Witches Daughter" ended. Although this book is a continuation, it does make enough sense and does explain things enough in the beginning to be read as a standalone story. In this book we still have the big bad Gideon as the villain. He was being held in a prison at the end of the first book and got himself to wreak havoc on the world yet again. We also have the brave and strong Elizabeth the witch playing the protector of Tegan. Although Tegan began to hone her skills as a witch, she is still young and weak in her powers compared to Gideon. 

I am a huge fan of any fantasy story, so by default I am going to gravitate towards liking this book. Putting that aside though there are many elements of this story that put it in the "pretty darn good" section of my library. The first thing that I would like to point out, is that the author really made this book a lot better than the first in the series. Not that the first book was bad at all, but this one really does a great job at continuing the story and making it shine for what its worth. It also is a lot easier to follow than the first book for those of you that have some trouble with all of the names and places in fantasy stories. Second, I completely loved reading about Tegan's journey where she seeks out the witches from all over to hone her skills in magic and become a more well rounded witch. The descriptions of the different encounters and the non stop action makes for an exciting story all throughout and a very enjoyable read. Third, besides a small part towards the middle of the story, this book is full of moving story line that flows from one thing to the next almost seamlessly. In reality, yes we should expect this out of all books but this does not always happen. It was refreshing to find that Brackston got her thoughts together nicely and weaved the words together so well in the entirety of this book. All in all, this is worth the read and won't disappoint.

4 Stars

Reviewed by Chris    

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