Book length - 345 pages
Publisher - Self-Published Book Depository - Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK One girl, one voice, one magical charm that could change the universe if it falls into the wrong hands… One boy who will do anything to protect her, even if that means laying down his own life to keep the demons away… One love that’s sure to show in the stars… She’s Fire, he’s Ice. MY REVIEW FROST ON MY PILLOW by Leah Hamrick is the first book in an intriguing new paranormal series. Lyla is seventeen and about to get married which is the norm in her magical society, which is kept hidden from the human world. Abused by her step=father and sure that she doesn't want to be just another wife who reproduces to guarantee the legacy of their kind, Lyla decides to escape into the human world with only her necklace as a memento. Once she is there, Lyla is sure that she will find what was missing from her life. But she will find so much more, as Lyla isn't the only person hiding in the human world, and she could now be in more danger than ever. I enjoyed the premise of the story and it is definitely written in a style that suits the Young Adult/ New Adult genre, with plenty of action to keep you satisfied. There was just something missing for me and I didn't become invested in the story as much as I would have liked but I would definitely consider FROST ON MY PILLOW by Leah Hamrick a solid read for fans of the paranormal genre. Author Bio: Leah Hamrick lives in Michigan with her young daughter, husband, and plethora of reptiles. She enjoys heavy metal music, and reading anything YA. She gets the inspiration for her stories from things that have happened to her in real life... except the paranormal/fantasy aspect, she wishes she were that awesome! For more information: Website - leahhamrick.wordpress.com Twitter - twitter.com/kookycharacters Facebook - www.facebook.com/spellbindingbooks/ *I want to thank Leah Hamrick for the opportunity to review this novel.
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Today I am excited to shine my spotlight on CITY OF SAVIORS by Rachel Howzell Hall and I have an intriguing extract to spark your interest. But first here is everything you need to know about this gripping new book. Release date - 8th August 2017 Book length - 302 pages Publisher - titanbooks.com Book Depository - www.bookdepository.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK Seventy-three-year-old Eugene Washington appears to have died in an unremarkable way - a heatwave combined with food poisoning from a holiday barbecue - but LAPD homicide detective Elouise "Lou" Norton is positive that something doesn't quite add up. Especially when she learns that the only family Washington had was his fellow church-goers. Lou is convinced that something wicked is lurking among the congregants. Could the murderer be sitting in one of those red velvet pews? And is someone protecting the wolf in the flock? Lou must force the truth into the light and confront her own demons in order to save another soul before it's too late. Author Bio: RACHEL HOWZELL HALL is the author of seven novels, including the critically-acclaimed Detective Elouise Norton series. The third novel in the series, Trail of Echoes, was published this past May and received a coveted Kirkus Star and was one of Kirkus Reviews 'Books That Kept Us Up All Night.' Land of Shadows and Skies of Ash (Forge) were included on the Los Angeles Times’ “Books to Read This Summer” for 2014 and 2015, and the New York Times called Lou Norton “a formidable fighter—someone you want on your side.” She is also collaborating with James Patterson and BookShots on the upcoming "The Good Sister." A featured writer on NPR’s acclaimed ‘Crime in the City’ series, Rachel has also served as a mentor in AWP’s Writer to Writer Program and is currently on the board of directors of the Mystery Writers of America. She was recently named one of Apple iBooks' "10 Authors to Read in 2017." For more information: Website - www.rachelhowzell.com Twitter - twitter.com/RachelHowzell Facebook - www.facebook.com/LouNortonNovels Read on for a great extract.... EXTRACT
THE THREE OFF-DUTY, RED-FACED COPS SEATED IN BROWN VINYL CHAIRS HAD BEEN broken—by guns, by fists, by life. And at eight o’clock in the morning, I sat across from them, in the sun-brightened waiting room of Matthew Popov, M.D. I harbored fractures, too—mine were as fine as cracks in a china cup that still held tea. But the trio didn’t see me or my cracks after their T&A check. Just their casts, their bandages, their bruised balls. “Them kids just don’t get it,” crew-cut Darren complained. “It ain’t always about color. You look suspicious? I’m gonna stop you.” The nerve beneath my left eye twitched, and the stress headache spilled across my forehead like warm milk. I snatched the month-old issue of People from the coffee table. One glance at the cover—BABY DRAMA FOR KIM—and I tossed the rag back into the swamp of “Divorce Looms for Jon!” and “Charlie’s Drunken Night!” With my God-given tan, camel-colored pantsuit, and delicate ankles, I’m sure crew-cut Darren assumed that a computer keyboard had caused my job injury. Carpal tunnel syndrome from typing some true detective’s paperwork. What would he say if he knew that I was that Elouise Norton who had rammed a Toyota Rav4 into a Parks and Rec truck high above Los Angeles? That I’d fractured my left arm, cracked two ribs, and concussed my head in the process? That the monster who had killed Chanita Lords and other girls from my old neighborhood had flown through the windshield and chopped into pieces all because he hadn’t worn a seat belt on the way to the place he wanted to kill me? What would Darren say if he knew that I was that Elouise Norton? Good job, Lou. Why’d you do something stupid like that? You got a death wish? My phone vibrated from my bag—a text message. How was your appointment? Don’t forget we’re bringing breakfast on Saturday morning. See you then. Love u, Mom. She’d discovered emoticons, and now there were sixty pink hearts trailing “Mom.” Haven’t gone in yet, I texted back. I’ll call later. Love u, too. Then, I tapped the Scrabble app. Darren was now rubbing his tattooed left calf as he told Brad and Tony about chasing some banger-trash down Hoover Avenue. “Then, that summabitch hopped over the fuckin’ fence like Hussein Bolt.” Tony laughed. “Usain Holt, dumb ass.” Usain Bolt and you both are dumb asses. “What the fuck ever,” Darren said. “I jumped over, too—that’s my point—and tore my ACL. Can you believe it?” Out in the parking lot, a gardener wielded a leaf blower. Dead foliage and grit swirled around him like confetti. A garden party. My phone vibrated again. Get felt up yet? Call me later. I have a proposition. My best friend, Lena Meadows, had also used emoticons—ones that my mother hadn’t discovered yet. A lipstick print, a martini glass, and a smiling purple devil. I texted Lena back. A proposition? Doesn’t sound healthy nor wholesome. I rebuke you. No message from Syeeda McKay, my other best friend. Or former best friend. Or . . . Relationship status: it’s complicated. The door that led to the exam rooms opened. A doe-eyed blonde nurse called out. “Elouise Norton?” In the vitals alcove, the nurse took my blood pressure (138/90), my weight (120 pounds), and my temperature (99.3). She cocked an eyebrow as she recorded the results in my chart. Then, she led me to the bathroom. After peeing in a plastic cup, I followed her into exam room 8. I placed my bag in the chair, undressed, then pulled on a blue gown with thousands of ties. With nothing else to do but sit, I studied the posters on the walls. DID YOU GET A FLU SHOT? Nope. LEARN THE TRUTH ABOUT HEART DISEASE. Okay. DO YOU HAVE POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER? I gulped, then clamped my jaw before sending my gaze back to flu shots and clogged arteries. And I kept them there until Dr. Popov’s gray eyes bore into mine. His wintergreen breath had almost covered the smell of coffee. “Your blood pressure’s up,” he said. “Has your pressure been high lately?” I futzed with one of the ties on the gown. “No.” His large soft hands tilted my head this way and that. “Have you been charting it with the machine I gave you?” “Yes.” “Are you in pain right now?” My cheeks warmed. “No.” Three lies told in less than twenty seconds. The Hussein Holt of Lying. Dr. Popov consulted my chart. “You taking anything for the pain you’re not having?” “Ibuprofen every now and then.” My nose ached from growing so much and so quickly. “I’ve been taking allergy meds. A lot of fires burning right now.” “Your elevated BP is a little worrisome. Hasn’t been this high since I cleared you three weeks ago for normal duty.” The doctor squinted at me. “You smoke?” “No.” “You drinking?” I cracked a smile. “What do you have?” “Seriously. Are you drinking?” We held each other’s eyes. My underarms prickled with sweat, and my upper lip twitched. Dr. Popov sighed, then examined the last scars high above my right eye, my right ear, and behind my hairline. He pressed on the scalp wound, then held up his fingers. Blood. “You have to stop scratching that. It starts to scab, but then . . .” “I keep forgetting it’s there,” I said. “I’ll stop. Promise.” “Does it still hurt?” My eyes watered as though his fingers were still pressing the wound. “No.” “You sure? I see tears.” “Allergies because of all the fires.” “You didn’t take anything this morning?” he asked. I shook my head. “Didn’t want to compromise my urine test.” “We can tell Claritin from Percocet. The miracle of science.” Then, he lifted my left arm. A dull twang spun in my shoulder like a pinwheel. “You winced,” he said. “Sore from physical therapy.” I smiled. “And I’m back in Krav Maga for strength training.” True, and true. My phone caw-cawed from the inside of my bag—the eagle ringtone for my partner, Colin Taggert. “When you’re sore like this,” Dr. Popov was saying, “what do you do?” “Heating pad and Icy Hot,” I replied. “Long baths and hot showers.” After promising to lower my numbers through clean living and exercise, and after receiving a flu shot, I trudged to the scheduling desk where the doe-eyed blonde nurse pulled up a calendar to schedule my next visit. The eagle caw-cawed from my bag again. This time, I answered. “Happy Tuesday.” “It’s not even nine o’clock yet,” Colin complained, “and it’s already eighty-six degrees.” A heat wave now roasted Los Angeles—yesterday, we hit 103 degrees in the Valley, 94 degrees downtown, and enjoyed 80 percent humidity, courtesy of a hurricane currently destroying Baja California. Fires to the north of us, fires to the south of us, fires to the east of us. All we needed was an earthquake and a Sig Alert on the 405 freeway to complete the “Seasons of LA” bingo card. I stepped away from the scheduling desk and wandered to a corner. “What’s up?” “All these fires are making my eyes itch,” Colin whined. “You use the drops I gave you?” “No.” “Then stop complaining.” “We’re on deck,” he announced. “Just when I was about to go out on the yacht.” “So, you’re driving to 8711 Victoria Avenue, off Crenshaw and Vernon.” “What’s today’s special?” “A suspicious death. An old guy dead in his old house.” “Dead, you say?” “Seniors are droppin’ from the heat. It’s like we’re standing on hell’s patio.” I gave the doe-eyed blonde nurse the “one minute, please” finger, then said to Colin, “Old guy, old house, no A/C probably. Nothing suspicious about that. This shouldn’t take long.” “You’ll get to go out on the yacht after all,” he said. I scheduled my next appointment for October 2nd, then left the medical office of Matthew Popov, M.D., with a bloody wound in my hair, sparks shooting in my shoulders, and sparks shooting at the base of my skull. I was healed. At the lobby gift shop, I purchased a bottled water and a morning bag of Doritos (baked Doritos: my first step toward clean living). By the time the elevator stopped at P2, I’d already popped four Advil and a Claritin. I stepped out of the air-conditioned car and into the muggy underground parking garage. My eyes flitted from dark corner to darker corner. Shadows. Weird echoes. A man stood . . . by the . . . ? What is he . . . ? He looks like . . . him. But’s he dead. Right? That’s what I’d been told. That’s what I’d read. But those seconds before the crash . . . couldn’t remember. I darted to my Porsche Cayenne with my heart pounding, my nerves frayed, my lungs pinched so hard I could barely breathe. The same state I’d been in when I first arrived. That shadow moved . . . The man, his shadow . . . No. Don’t go there. Just the wind. Dr. Bernie Shankman’s soothing baritone filled my head. Just the wind blowing, Elouise. Just the wind. Take a breath. Take a breath. I reached my car, panting as though I’d run a mile in a minute. Knees weak, I leaned against the car door with my eyes squeezed shut. Your pounding heart? That’s the wind. The scent of a man’s cologne—but it smelled like his cologne--that’s the wind, too. Just the wind, Elouise. Breathe. Breathe. Second time in an hour that I’d employed visualization to coax me off the ledge. And now, in my mind’s eye, I reclined in a chaise surrounded by palm trees. I was relaxing on my favorite Big Island beach. The breeze lifted my hair and ferried the aroma of Lava Lava Club’s sticky-sweet drinks and pineapple-fried rice. Waves. Fluffy white clouds. Blue sky. Quiet. So quiet. “Open your eyes,” I whispered. I was still hunkered in the dark parking garage. But there were no ghosts now. No shadowy man in the corner. No Zach Fletcher. Yet. *I WANT TO THANK PHILIPPA FROM TITAN BOOKS, AND THE AUTHOR RACHEL HOWZELL HALL FOR PROVIDING THIS EXTRACT AND INFORMATION FOR THIS SPOTLIGHT. Release date - 31st July 2017 Book length - 249 pages Publisher - www.canelo.co Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK On the shores of Lake Garda, a beautiful romance unfolds. But is it only for summer? Don’t miss this gorgeous, heart-warming novel from Darcie Boleyn, bestselling author of 2017 smash-hit Summer at Conwenna Cove. Sophia Bertoni discovers her boyfriend in bed with another woman, and realizes her life is going nowhere. Leaving her high-pressure job, she travels to Italy to stay with her grandmother while she figures out her next move. When Sophia – quite literally – bumps into devastatingly handsome Joe Lancaster her plans are turned upside down. As the two realize they’re both spending the summer in the same town, a love affair seems on the cards. But Sophia and Joe are both burdened by family secrets. Despite their attraction, will the sun set on Sophia and Joe’s romance – or will they find love at the Italian lake? Author Bio: Darcie Boleyn has a huge heart and is a real softy. She never fails to cry at books and movies, whether the ending is happy or not. Darcie is in possession of an overactive imagination that often keeps her awake at night. Darcie fell in love in New York, got married in the snow, rescues uncoordinated greyhounds and can usually be found reading or typing away on her laptop. For more information: Website - darcieboleyn.wordpress.com Twitter - twitter.com/DarcieBoleyn Facebook - www.facebook.com/darcieboleyn/ I AM SO EXCITED TO TAKE PART IN THIS BLOG TOUR FOR DARCIE BOLEYN'S LATEST NOVEL, AND I HAVE A WONDERFUL EXTRACT FOR YOU ALL TO SINK YOUR TEETH INTO. HAPPY READING! EXTRACT
‘Sophia!’ ‘Yes?’ ‘Dinner’s ready.’ ‘Be down in a minute, Mum!’ She glanced around the room. She’d managed to stuff the things she’d brought with her into the wardrobe and under the bed. It would pass a surface inspection. She just had to hope her mother wouldn’t decide to check where she’d put everything. Stella’s obsession with tidiness was legendary and everything had a place and had to stay there… or else! She grinned. She loved her parents so much, even if they could be a bit overpowering at times. It was another reason why a trip was a good idea; staying here would be okay in the short term but any longer than a few weeks and she knew she’d end up with cabin fever. They still saw her as the baby of the family and that was fine, as long as she wasn’t living under their roof where they could mollycoddle her twenty-four seven. ‘Sophia!’ ‘Coming!’ She left the bedroom, pulling the door closed behind her, enjoying the delicious aromas of tomato and garlic as she descended. It was only when she reached the bottom step that she realized there were extra pairs of shoes in the hallway. Five extra pairs. She swallowed a groan. That meant that her brothers were here with Luca’s family in tow. And as much as she loved her nieces, she also knew that it meant that her situation would now be mulled over, not just by her parents and brothers, but her sister-in-law too. They might even throw the scraps of her dignity to her nieces: Summer and Autumn. She took a deep breath, then headed into the large, warm kitchen and prepared to greet her family. *** ‘Aunty Sophia!’ Seven-year-old Summer ran at her, threw her arms around Sophia’s waist and hugged her tight. ‘Hello, Summer.’ ‘I’m so happy to see you. Where’ve you been? Mummy said you’re always working and we’ve really missed you. Haven’t we, Autumn?’ ‘Yes.’ Five-year-old Autumn joined the hug. Sophia gazed at the dark heads of her nieces. Luca and his wife, Kaisha, had produced two beautiful girls. And they were such physical opposites. Luca was tall, broad and dark, whereas Kaisha was petite with fair skin, silky light brown hair and green eyes. Their genes had combined to make two little girls who looked like they’d walked straight out of a Disney cartoon with their shiny hair and rosy cheeks. As they hugged Sophia, she realized that she hadn’t seen them for well over a month and something in her chest tightened. ‘I’m sorry, girls. I’ve just been so busy at work that I had to work weekends too. I have missed you so much though.’ She leaned over and kissed each head then lowered to a crouch. ‘Where’s Uncle Lee?’ Autumn asked, poking her tongue out of the corner of her rosebud mouth. ‘Oh, he’s uh—’ ‘They broke up, silly!’ Summer nudged her sister and Autumn’s cheeks flushed. ‘Sorry, Aunty Sophia.’ ‘It’s okay, sweetie. Sometimes grown-ups don’t stay together because they don’t love each other any more.’ *I WANT TO THANK ELLIE FROM CANELO, AND DARCIE BOLEYN FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO TAKE PART IN THIS BLOG TOUR. Release date - 13th July 2017 (Paperback)
Book length - 389 pages Publisher - headofzeus.com Book Depository - www.bookdepository.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK Set in late 1950s Ireland and New York, the story of three women and the charismatic man with whom their lives are interwoven. Set, like Maeve Binchy's early bestsellers, in late 1950s Ireland and New York, this is the story of three women and the charismatic man with whom their lives are interwoven. Patrick Murphy has charm to burn and a singing voice to die for. Many people will recognise his talent. Many women will love him. Rose, the sweetheart he leaves behind in Ireland, can never forget him and will move heaven and earth to find him again, long after he has married another woman. Ava, the heiress with no self-confidence except on the dance floor, falls under his spell. And tough Sheila Klein, orphaned by the Holocaust and hungry for success as a music manager, she will be ruthless in her determination to unlock his extraordinary star quality. But in the end, Patrick Murphy's heart belongs to only one of them. Which one will it be? MY REVIEW IT WAS ONLY EVER YOU by Kate Kerrigan is a powerful and beautiful tale of love, life, and finding what you need in this world. Set in the 1950s the story moves from Ireland to New York where Patrick Murphy is hoping to make his dream of singing become a reality. A man that oozes charm, kindness, and charisma, Patrick draws women to him like moths to a flame, and when he doesn't hear any word from his young first love, Rose, who is back in Ireland, he believes that things have changed. In New York, we meet Ava and Sheila, two very different characters who have a lot in common - strength and determination to live their lives on their terms in a society that wants a woman to know her place. And as their paths collide with Patrick's it will change them irrevocably in ways that they could never dream of. And then there is the fact that Rose is coming to New York determined to find her man... With music at the forefront throughout this alluring novel, it is no surprise that there is a lyrical quality in Kate Kerrigan's writing, and I found myself swept away with the beat on every page. The characters are appealing and really make you care, and I loved learning more about the music and Irish immigrant scene that was bursting with life in Manhattan at that time. IT WAS ONLY EVER YOU is a dramatic and all-consuming story about relationships in all of its forms, and as always with books written by the wonderful Kate Kerrigan, it played with my heart strings all the way through. A stunning story that would be perfect on the silver screen, and one you should not miss out on. Author Bio: Kate Kerrigan is an author living and working in Ireland. Her novels are Recipes for a Perfect Marriage, The Miracle of Grace, Ellis Island, City of Hope, Land of Dreams and The Lost Garden. Kate began her career as an editor and journalist, editing many of Britain’s most successful young women’s magazines before returning to her native Ireland in the 1990’s to edit Irish Tatler. She writes a weekly column in the Irish Mail about her life in Killala, County Mayo – and contributes regularly to RTE's radio's Sunday Miscellany. Her novel, The Dress, published by Head of Zeus was shortlisted at the Irish Book Awards in 2015, and her new novel, It Was Only Ever You, was published in hardback edition, October 2016. For more information: Website - katekerrigan.ie Twitter - twitter.com/katekerrigan Facebook - www.facebook.com/KateKerriganAuthor *I want to thank Clare at Head of Zeus Publishing, and the author Kate Kerrigan, for the opportunity to review this compelling novel. Release date - 9th May 2017 Book length -417 pages Publisher - www.endeavourpress.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK England 1650: Civil War has given way to an uneasy peace in the year since Parliament executed King Charles I. Royalist officer James Hart refuses to accept the tyranny of the new government, and to raise funds for the restoration of the king’s son, he takes to the road as a highwayman. Elizabeth Seton has long been shunned for being a traitor’s daughter. In the midst of the new order, she risks her life by sheltering fugitives from Parliament in a garrison town. But her attempts to rebuild her life are threatened, first by her own sense of injustice, then by falling in love with the dashing Hart. The lovers’ loyalty is tested through war, defeat and separation. James must fight his way back to the woman he loves, while Elizabeth will do anything to save him, even if it means sacrificing herself. Traitor’s Knot is a sweeping tale of love and conflicted loyalties set against the turmoil of the English Civil War. “A hugely satisfying read that will appeal to historical fiction fans who demand authenticity, and who enjoy a combination of suspense, action, and a very believable love story.” – Elizabeth St. John, author of The Lady of the Tower “A thrilling historical adventure expertly told.” – Carol McGrath, author of The Handfasted Wife MY REVIEW It is 1650 in England and the aftermath of the Civil War is rippling throughout the countryside and its people. Many refuse to accept the actions of the new government and with hidden figures plotting, nobody knows who they can trust. James Hart is doing what he can to fight for what he believes in even if it means he must become a highwayman to achieve his goals, and then his world is altered when he meets her... Elizabeth Seton has been shunned as a traitor's daughter but that does not stop her doing what she feels she must - sheltering fugitives. But when she comes into contact with James Hart, she finally knows what it is like to want something purely for herself. But with danger pulling them apart who knows where this story will end? Be prepared to step back in time with this stunning historical novel that will capture your heart and imagination within the first few pages and never let you go. With vivid descriptions that will literally make your breath catch, this compelling story of war, love, danger, and heartache is everything you want and need in a good story. But there is so much more to TRAITOR'S KNOT by Cryssa Bazos as the rich historical detail balances perfectly with the drama and romance of the characters. Elizabeth is my favourite character as she is so clever, strong, and determined and it was refreshing to see her walk the path of her choice with courage and independence. TRAITOR'S KNOT by Cryssa Bazos is a historical novel that will blow your socks off and leave you eagerly awaiting more from this talented author who so effortlessly paints a picture of the past with such emotion that it will stay in your mind for days to come. Author Bio: Cryssa Bazos is a historical fiction writer and 17th Century enthusiast, with a particular interest in the English Civil War (ECW). She blogs about English history and storytelling at her blog, the 17th Century Enthusiast, and is an editor of the English Historical Fiction Authors blog site. Cryssa’s debut novel, Traitor’s Knot, a romantic tale of adventure set during the English Civil War. Traitor’s Knot is the first in a series of adventures spanning from the ECW to the Restoration and is now available from Endeavour Press. For more information: Website - cryssabazos.com Twitter - twitter.com/CryssaBazos Facebook - www.facebook.com/cbazos/ Instagram - www.instagram.com/cryssabazos/ READ ON FOR AN EXCERPT FROM THIS COMPELLING HISTORICAL NOVEL - HAPPY READING!! EXCERPT
Traitor’s Knot People clogged the market, moving as slow as a herd of sheep and with as much purpose. Shrill cries of, “Wool, thirty-six shillings to the pound!” cut through the crowd. James scanned the square, looking for a dark-haired woman in a blue skirt. It was as though he searched for a chaff of barley in a stack of wheat. James manoeuvred against the tide of people. Soot-faced urchins ran between the channels that opened in the crowd, jostling as they darted past. In an effort to avoid further collision, he nearly bumped into a matron, her basket loaded with packages. She beamed a bright smile. “God save you, Master Hart.” Her free hand fluttered over her lace collar like a butterfly. “And you, Mistress Boddington.” James tipped his hat to her. “I trust the family has fared the winter well.” The moment she lowered her eyes, James tried to steal a glance over her shoulder. At of the edge of his vision, he caught a flash of blue. The woman bobbed her head. “With God’s grace. My daughter, Sibyl, has been a blessing. She has become such an adept housekeeper.” James ignored the expectation in her tone. Sibyl Boddington was too timid for his taste. “Please give my compliments to your daughter. If you’ll excuse me.” The matron opened her mouth to continue the conversation, but James managed to extricate himself into the safety of the crowd. He quickened his pace. Where could she have gone? Taller than most, James commanded a better view of the market, but still he could not find her. How difficult could this be? He rolled his eyes at the irony. He, James Hart, once the best scoutmaster of the King’s army and famed for his ability to track a field mouse, could not find a slip of a maid in a Warwick market. James made his way down Jury Street through the livestock market and pens of bleating lambs. Someone had forgotten to latch a crate properly, and a pair of fluttering chickens escaped from their coop. The butcher tossed a scrap of offal over his shoulder, and stray dogs darted in before they were beaten away. Turning on Market Square, James paused to survey the haberdashers. Surely he would find her here, amongst the stalls of linens, laces and ribbons. Hats and coifs intermingled, and for a moment all he could see was a blur of white and grey. About to turn away, his eyes at last fell upon the one he sought. Elizabeth Seton browsed the household stalls, strolling at her leisure. James walked towards her, his eyes fixed firmly on the prize. She hovered over a collection of linens, and her fingers brushed over the cloths, but she did not linger beyond a curious moment. James kept a discreet distance, ever narrowing the gap. One slim hand held her skirts, raising them slightly to avoid a muddy puddle before she continued on her way. He halted his progress when she became rooted at the bookseller’s. While fancy ribbons and laces had not attracted her interest, a stack of pamphlets and chapbooks made the difference. She struck up a conversation with the bookseller, laughing at something he said. James rubbed his chin, engrossed. An unusual maid, he thought, and drew closer. Leaning over the small collection, her head tilted to peer at the titles. Hair secured in a sedate knot, a wayward tendril escaped its constraint. The wind lifted and teased the stray lock, contrasting to the paleness of her nape. James fought the urge to reach out and twist the strand in his fingers. He bent forward and addressed her in a low tone, “Are you looking to improve your mind, or to seek instruction?” Elizabeth started in surprise. Her eyes widened, and for the first time, he realised how blue they were. Almost immediately they narrowed, as though she wasn’t sure how to respond to his boldness. He knew he was being forward, but he had never won a thing without pressing his advantage. “I am looking for a book on good manners, sir. I would not expect you to recommend one.” James grinned. Without looking away, he addressed the bookseller, who watched them. “Master Ward, would you be so kind as to introduce us?” “I would,” the man said. “Only I haven’t made the maid’s acquaintance myself.” Amusement flitted across her lips. “Elizabeth Seton,” she announced. “Mistress Seton, may I present James Hart, ostler at the Chequer and Crowne,” the bookseller said, fulfilling his duty. James swept his hat from his head. “Pleased to make your acquaintance, Mistress Seton.” He rather liked saying her name. “Master Hart.” Elizabeth canted her head and hesitated for a fraction. She looked at him openly and did not avert her eyes in modesty when he returned her gaze. “You’re new to Warwick,” he said. “How would you know this?” “I know everyone here.” “Not so,” she said. One brow arched ever so slightly. “You did not know me until this moment.” James found her bewitching. “I stand corrected, Mistress Seton. Still, you are new to Warwick.” Elizabeth’s head dipped. “If I were to guess, I’d say you were Mistress Stanborowe’s niece. I’ve heard that Ellendale has a new resident.” “Indeed, your information is correct.” “Pray, allow me the privilege of calling on you.” James leaned against the stall and nearly sent a stack of books tumbling. “My aunt values courtesy, and you, sir, are quite forward. I can only assume she would object.” “I assure you, mistress, I am not an objectionable fellow,” he said. “Is that not right, Master Ward?” “Quite true.” The man’s voice shook with laughter. “There you have it,” James said. “If you can’t trust the word of a bookseller, all is lost.” A small smile flitted at the corner of her mouth. James found the resulting dimple intriguing. “I must be leaving.” She picked up her purchase and prepared to depart. “God save you, sir, and good day.” She reached over to pay the bookseller, but Master Ward caught James’s warning frown and casually turned away. “Are women from the south always so aloof?” James blurted, then cringed. Lagging wit--you can do better. She halted in surprise. “How did you know I came from the south?” “Far south, I would guess,” he said, grasping the first thing that came to mind. “How do you suppose?” Her eyes narrowed. “Naturally, by your speech.” “Indeed? I could be from London,” Elizabeth replied. “You are as likely from London as I from Scotland.” Elizabeth gave up trying to attract the bookseller’s attention and laid her coin atop a pile of chapbooks. She clutched her purchase to her chest in preparation for her escape. “I will make you a wager,” he said. “If I can guess where you came from, you’ll allow me to call on you.” “And if you’re wrong?” “I’ll wish you good day and trouble you no more.” James offered his hand, but she ignored it. “Do we have an agreement?” Elizabeth held his gaze for a moment. She pursed her lips, and a hint of a dimple lurked at the corners. “Agreed.” James smiled. He hadn’t forgotten what she had told the highwayman. “Let’s see—I’ll need one word from you.” “Which one?” Elizabeth asked. “Owl.” “Owl?” “Aye, the very one. Say it again.” He crossed his arms and waited. When she repeated it, he nodded. “’Tis perfectly clear. Your speech has a Dorset flavour.” For truth, she did have a lovely, soft way of speaking. Elizabeth’s brow arched slightly. “Are you certain I am not from Hampshire?” “Aye. Admit it, I’m correct.” “Fine, then, but Dorset is quite large, and that does not prove your wit.” “An exacting maid. No doubt you’ll want me to do better,” he said with a slow smile. “I’ll need another word from you, then. Two, if you please.” “Truly? Which ones?” The breeze strengthened, and she brushed a tangled strand from her face. James caught the haunting scent of lavender. “Welcome home.” With a smile, she repeated the words. The rosy bow of her mouth fascinated him. “Unmistakable.” He grinned. “The verdict?” “I would lay my life upon it. ’Tis a Weymouth cast.” “Truly impressive.” Elizabeth’s blue eyes narrowed. “Such a clever fellow to know this only by my speech. Would you not agree, Master Ward?” This time the bookseller laughed out loud. “Quite so, Mistress Seton.” “Thank you for your stimulating instruction, Master Hart. I find my time has grown short. Good day.” She nodded farewell to the bookseller and started to walk away. “What of our wager?” James called out to her. Elizabeth stopped to face him. “I’ll honour our wager at the time of my choosing. You didn’t stipulate otherwise.” James chuckled. Damned captivating woman. He crossed his arms across his chest and watched as she walked away. With a last swish of her blue skirts, she melted into the crowd. “Aren’t you going after her, James?” Master Ward leaned forward. “Nay, not yet,” he smiled, savouring the anticipation. He dearly loved a challenge. *I WANT TO THANK AMY FROM hfvirtualbooktours.com, ENDEAVOUR PRESS, AND THE AUTHOR CRYSSA BAZOS FOR THE OPPORTUNITY TO REVIEW THIS NOVEL AND TAKE PART IN THIS BLOG TOUR. AND WHAT A GREAT EXCERPT TO WHET YOUR APPETITE! Release date - 7th July 2017
Book length - 275 pages Publisher - Self-Published Book Depository - www.bookdepository.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK A quaint hotel in a romantic location. The Lake District is the perfect getaway. Or is it? Felicity Everdene needs a break from the family business. Driving through the Lake District to the Cross Hotel, past the shining lake and the mountains, everything seems perfect. But Felicity soon discovers all is not well at the Cross Hotel … Patrick Cross left the village of Emmside years ago never intending to return, but his father has left him the family’s hotel in his will, and now he's forced to come back. With a missing barmaid, a grumpy chef, and the hotel losing money, the arrival of Felicity Everdene from the notorious Everdene family only adds to Patrick’s troubles. With so much to overcome, can Felicity and Patrick bring happiness to the Cross Hotel … and find happiness for themselves? MY REVIEW It was at the end of an exhausting day when I picked up FELICITY AT THE CROSS HOTEL by Helena Fairfax and it was exactly what I needed. Refreshing, with wonderful characters that I felt connected to immediately, and the stunning Lake District as the backdrop were just some of the reasons why this story really worked for me. Felicity or Fliss Everdene works for the extremely successful family business of the Everdene International Hotel Chain but sometimes everyone needs a change of scene. So when she gets the chance to help at The Cross Hotel in the Lake District, it is the perfect trip for her. Patrick Cross never thought he would return to the little village where he grew up but when his father leaves him the family hotel after his death, Patrick finds himself thrust back into the village limelight. And when he meets Fliss, she is the last thing he needs. But sometimes life gives us what we need when we least expect it... I loved Fliss as she was quirky, loving, and chatty (which I can totally relate too!LOL), the complete opposite to Patrick who is brooding, serious, and contemplative. But as they clash we can see that there is something there between them and I desperately wanted to bang their heads together and open their eyes. The hotel and its staff provide even more entertainment and altogether the story just really worked for me. FELICITY AT CROSS HOTEL by Helena Fairfax is a heartwarming romance but it also an emotional story about family dynamics, loss, guilt, and the prospect of new beginnings. This book is the perfect read to relax with and you will enjoy being transported to the beauty of the Lake District. Author Bio: Helena Fairfax writes engaging contemporary romances with sympathetic heroines and heroes she's secretly in love with. Her novels have been shortlisted for several awards, including the Exeter Novel Prize, the Global eBook Awards, and the I Heart Indie Awards. Her first novel was a contender for the UK's Romantic Novelists' Association New Writers' Scheme Award. Helena is a British author who was born in Uganda and came to England as a child. She's grown used to the cold now, and these days she lives in an old Victorian mill town in the north of England, right next door to the windswept Yorkshire moors. She walks this romantic landscape every day with her rescue dog, finding it the perfect place to dream up her heroes and her happy endings. For more information: Website - helenafairfax.com Twitter - twitter.com/HelenaFairfax Facebook - www.facebook.com/HelenaFairfax/ *I want to thank Helena Fairfax for the opportunity to review this delightful story! Release date - 9th April 2017
Book length - 282 pages Publisher - www.choc-lit.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK Can a secret be worse than a lie? Every time Kate Duggan looks in a mirror she is confronted by her guilt; a long, red scar reminding her that she was ‘the one to walk away’ from the car accident. Not everyone was so lucky … On the surface her fiancé Rob is supportive – but the reality is different. He’s controlling, manipulative and, if the phone call Kate overhears is anything to go by, he has a secret. But just how dangerous is that secret? When Kate begins work at a firm of private investigators, she meets Ben Parker. His strong and silent persona is intriguing but it’s also a cover – because something devastating happened to Ben, something he can’t get over. As Kate and Ben begin their first assignment, they become close. But, what they don’t realise is how close to home the investigation will bring them, or who will be hurt in the process... MY REVIEW Immediately drawn into the story, we get to know Kate Duggan whose life changed forever thirteen months ago. Intelligent and happy, Kate was working as a police officer in London, when she was involved in a devastating accident that left her brother dead and her twin sister Eve paralysed. Many believed that Kate was lucky walking away with only a scar on her face but guilt and grief have left Kate deeply scarred both inside and out and she struggles to connect with her parents who blame her for what happened. Now over a year later, Kate is finally taking steps to start afresh with her fiancè Rob, and her new job as a private investigator with Parker and Son. But when Kate meets Ben, her colleague, she cannot help the spark of attraction that flares to life within her and makes her question her relationship with Rob which has been floundering for some time now. As Kate and Ben throw themselves into a new case, they forge a strong friendship and begin to trust each other with their pasts and their fears. But when danger gets a lot closer to home, Kate must find the strength to face it head on even if the truth may shock everyone to their core. With family drama, shady characters, drama, suspense and some romance thrown in for good measure, TELL ME NO SECRETS by Lynda Stacey is a thoroughly gripping tale from start to finish and I devoured it within a few hours. The characters are engaging and make you care about them - especially Eve who I really wanted to see find happiness, as well as Kate. TELL ME NO SECRETS is perfectly-paced and it had just the right balance of romance and suspense to hold my attention throughout. So if you enjoy a thrilling romantic suspense with a loveable group of main characters then TELL ME NO SECRETS by Lynda Stacey is the perfect book for you. Author Bio: I’m the Sales Director for a stationery and office supplies company in Doncaster. I’ve also been a nurse, an emergency first response instructor and a PADI Staff Instructor (which is a Scuba diving instructor who can teach people to be instructors themselves) and now, I’m proud to say that I’m an author. I’ve always loved to read and at a very early age I decided that one day I’d be an author. I left school at 15, but before I left I went to my careers advice officer and he asked me what I’d like to do. When I said that I’d like to write or become a journalist, he asked me if I’d ever thought of working at Boots the Chemist, Littlewoods or BHS. My dream of becoming an author diminished and I carried on with life. In 2008, I was involved in a car accident that damaged all the nerves in my shoulder. I couldn’t dive, or teach anymore and was left with many hours on my hands. It was then that I once again turned to my love of writing and found that I naturally steered towards creating stories of romantic suspense. My own life story, along with varied career choices helps me create both unique heroes and heroines. I like to give them challenging back stories, unpredictable plots and eventually, (as in all romance) happy endings. I joined the RNA in 2014 under the wonderful umbrella of the New Writers Scheme and in 2015, my debut novel ‘Keeper of the House’ now called House of Secrets won the Choc Lit &Wholestory Audio books, Search for a Star competition. I happily live in a small rural hamlet near Doncaster, with my wonderful hero at home husband, Haydn. For more information: Website - www.lyndastacey.co.uk Twitter - twitter.com/LyndaStacey Facebook - www.facebook.com/Lyndastaceyauthor/ *I want to thank the author Lynda Stacey, and the Publisher Choc Lit, for the opportunity to review this novel. Release date - 10th August 2017 Book length - 338 pages Publisher - headofzeus.com Book Depository - www.bookdepository.com Amazon UK - www.amazon.co.uk Amazon US - www.amazon.com ABOUT THE BOOK The second StoryWorld novel set in the glamorous, pressurized world of a live London TV station. StoryWorld is the nation's favourite morning show, and producer Liz Lyon wants to keep it that way. Her job is to turn real-life stories into thrilling TV – and keep a lid on the cauldron of conflicts and resentments that constantly simmers off-stage. In this gripping novel of power, rivalry and betrayal, Jane Lythell draws on her experiences of working in the heated world of live TV. Liz Lyon must balance the monster egos at work with the demands of her teenage daughter – and the man she's just started dating – at home. It's all in a day's work. MY REVIEW BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is the second novel set in the ultra competitive tv station StoryWorld and again, this story completely blew my socks off with its engaging plot line and compelling antics. Producer Liz Lyon is still juggling her personal life with her teenage daughter Flo, and her highly demanding career but at least she feels that she is on a better footing with her boss and can trust her solid team completely. But when StoryWorld gains a new staff member in the form of formidable Lori Kerwell who is determined to get what she wants, Liz's work life gets a whole lot more complicated. Throw in a tv presenter who is getting too big for their boots, a scandalous revelation, a new romance, a dodgy builder, and an angry teenager, and Liz's life has become every inch a soap opera. But when her very livelihood is threatened, will she walk away from the job that has been such a huge part of her life? And as for her new romance... BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is a cleverly paced and well-written story that unleashes the drama from behind the scenes of this celebrity world and mixes it effortlessly with deeper and more personal issues throughout. Liz is such an open and compassionate character and you cannot help but feel a connection with her as she tries to juggle being a single mom to a stroppy teenager, with a very competitive and demanding career - never mind her trying to fit in a little personal time or romance. I loved getting to know more about Liz's team in this book, especially Henry and Simon, and as with Woman of the Hour, I literally did not put this book down until I reached the final page - which left me desperate for the next book!!! BEHIND HER BACK by Jane Lythell is another dynamic story from an author who has fast become one of my favourite go-to authors and I highly recommend this novel. Author Bio: I worked as a TV producer for 15 years and my third novel WOMAN OF THE HOUR takes the lid off the TV industry. Behind the glossy exterior of the on-air programme there lurks backstage intrigues, scandal and huge egos in conflict; an insider's account of the private life of a TV station. My second novel AFTER THE STORM follows an English couple who get on a small boat with two American strangers to sail to an island after knowing them less then 24 hours. It has been described as Marine Noir. My debut novel THE LIE OF YOU is a portrait of obsession to the point of madness in which a woman tries to destroy her colleague. For more information: Twitter - twitter.com/janelythell Facebook - www.facebook.com/janelythellbooks/ Instagram - www.instagram.com/jane_lythell_writer/ Read on for a wonderfully insightful guest post from Jane Lythell.... GUEST POST
BEHIND HER BACK: CREATING BELIEVABLE CHARACTERS It’s so important to create characters your reader will believe in. It doesn't matter if they dislike a character or adore them, but it does matter if they don’t believe in them. I create a sheet for each of my main characters and think about what food, clothes and music they would like. What is their greatest fear and the worst thing that has happened to them? Even if not all of this makes its way into the book it helps the characters to live in my mind. With Liz Lyon for example:
I went over to the phone and snatched it up. It was one of those stupid recorded calls about payment protection. I slammed the phone down. Flo had gone into her room and I heard her pulling her chair to wedge against the door. She was barricading herself into her room. Our relationship had come to that. I paced up and down the sitting room thinking I would phone Ben and tell him to butt out. He had asked me to let her do the fashion shoot, for chrissakes, and now there was trouble he was backing her; anything so he could be the good-time dad and I could be in the wrong. I went into my bedroom and called his number. It rang and rang but he didn’t pick up. I took off my boots and I felt like crying. I heard the front door slam and I rushed out. Flo had left a note on the kitchen table. I hate you. I’ve gone to stay with Rosie. I did what I always do when I’m feeling stressed and turned to comfort food. I made myself macaroni cheese with an extra helping of Cheddar. It was death by cheese. My flat has always been my haven from work but at the moment it’s warfare at work and warfare at home. In contrast to Liz, Fizzy Wentworth is the star of StoryWorld TV. She started as the PA to the Managing Director and her first role was as the weather presenter. Her rise to the main anchor role was meteoric. Her traits are:
‘Now I know I said there’d be no photos of Zac shown on screen but I’ve been thinking about it. It’s not unreasonable for the viewers to want to see Zac, is it? I mean, they sent me all those toys and bootees and shawls,’ Fizzy said. ‘They have been amazingly generous. They love you,’ I said. ‘So I had this brainwave. I’m going to hire a top portrait photographer to take a mother and baby shot of me and Zac. I want the man who did Prince George.’ ‘Wow…’ ‘I want something extremely tasteful. And I’m willing to share the best shot on StoryWorld – only one photo and it won’t be broadcast anywhere else.’ ‘That’s a great idea,’ I said. ‘I’m glad you like it. I think it gives the viewers something back without anyone being able to accuse me of cashing in on my baby.’ It amused me that Fizzy wanted the royal photographer for this but then Zachary had been born into the mad world of celebrity royalty. Having created your characters the joy (and the work) is in making the plot developments stem from those very character traits you have portrayed. So Liz’s self-doubt is a factor in how the story plays out as is Fizzy’s highly competitive nature. I am disappointed when I read a book and a character has been bent out of shape in order to deliver a late twist. A reader shouldn’t think ‘but he or she would never have done that!’ I think it is important to stay true to how your characters would behave. Jane Lythell *I want to thank Clare from Head of Zeus Publishing, and the author Jane Lythell, for the opportunity to review this book and take part in this blog tour. Don't forget to check out all of the other stops along the way! And thanks again to Jane for the great guest post above. |
WelcomeHi fellow bookworms. My name is Linda and I'm a reviewer & blogger, wife & mother who loves all things books! Currently ReadingUPCOMING BLOG TOURS
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