Friday 30 April 2021

BLOG TOUR: BROKEN WING BY KATHLEEN MARE'E @XpressoTours

 

Broken Wing
Kathleen Mare’e
(Arthur Academy, #1)
Publication date: April 26th 2021
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult

Hendrix:

It’s funny the things you notice as a child.

Like the way people uneasily glance away from me whenever I catch their eye.

Or the way a stranger seems to smile happily at other children, but when I say hello, their smile looks more uneasy than warm.

But as I approach the steel gates to the elite Arthur Academy, I can’t help but take a long-awaited breath towards my freedom. Finally, I have the chance to build the life I want. A future. Something that gives me more to live for than the daily beatings my childhood only knew. The girl I used to be doesn’t exist here. But even as the confidence grows about a life I now have control over, I can’t help but feel there could be something else waiting for me here. Something I’ve never faced before.

And it isn’t something I could prepare for.

And preparation is what got me out. It got me here.

I can’t afford to lose this opportunity, because if I lose this hand, it’s more than just a loss.
It’s like not being able to breathe. Not being able to fly.
It’s like, having a broken wing.
And without it, I lose my control. My freedom.

Paxton:
I grip the leather ball in my hand, finally feeling the weight of the year pressing down on me. If it was just football, I could deal, but with my last name – it’s everything else that suffocates me. The Arthur Elite is what they call us, and we each have our roles to play. But my fathers given me the next two years to do what the hell I want without his interference, before he’ll own me to be his pawn.
Two years. After that, when college is done, I dread the life I’ll have to lead. The role I’ll have to play.
It should be simple. Just stroll through the steel gates and be the crown they all see; but I can’t help but feel there is something lurking beneath the surface. There is something different about this year that I sense inside my dark soul.
And it isn’t something I am prepared for; even when staying ahead is the one thing that ensures my next breath.

Because when I lose a hand, it’s more than just a loss.

It’s like losing a limb. A bird breaking its wing.

And without that – I can’t fly toward freedom.

And my freedom right now, is all I have to hold onto.



Here is an excerpt:

I didn’t miss the way Austin changed the subject, or more importantly, how he seemed to imply that I’d care about who Hendrix was with. But like the asshole he is, he knew he would get a reaction out of me. It’s one of those things we hide well in public, but not from each other. We never were good at hiding things from one another.

“And was Tucker keeping his hands to himself?” I bite. I almost want to punch the tiles in front of me for even thinking about his hands on her. I know I’m a worthless piece of shit - I know that. But Tucker? He thinks he isn’t one, when the truth is, he’s the worst of us all.

Austin laughs, “Pax you should see how wound up you are right now. Don’t tell me you like her?”

“Like who? New girl?” Banks squawks, like he’s only just started listening again, a towel wrapped around his shoulders and his junk out for all to see.

“I don’t like anyone,” I huff, shutting off the water and shoving my face in my towel.

“Oh, my fucking lord. You like her!”

“Shut the fuck up Austin. You know we don’t have time for that shit. Two years. I have two fucking years of football left before the life I want is over. This is all I have right now. I don’t fucking like anyone.” I’m half-dressed to find them beside me, with shit-eating grins on their faces.

“So, you wouldn’t mind me having a go then?” Banks asks cockily, his head tilted to the side.

I do my best to school an indifferent look on my face, shrugging, “If you think charity pussy is worth it. Go for it.” I grab my bag and stalk out of the lockers, before I even think about punching something. I needed to get myself in control, and all that shit about liking her was sending me off balance.

Like her?

I haven’t had a girlfriend since prep school, and even then, I barely tolerated her. Girls are only good for a distraction. That may change one day if I can ever live a life away from the one my father wants me to. A life I know I will hate. But for now at least, it’s not even on my radar. Banks, Austin, River and I – would never get to choose our partners. Like my father says, it’s just a business deal anyway. Her doe-eyes flash in my head once again. Maybe I need to just have her once and get her out of my system. Maybe then, I can stop this torment my mind seems to want to pull over me. But even that thought feels like bullshit to me. I make it outside and start heading to the main building, desperate to shake any thought of her out of me, when I hear the banter and laughter behind me.

“So, just to be sure…” Banks laughs, causing me to stop and face him resigned. “If Tucker was to have a go at her, you wouldn’t have a problem right?”

Fuck no, I’d have a problem.

“It’s not about her. It’s about Tucker and how he’s an asshole.” Banks raises his brow, causing me to add, “Well, more of an asshole than we are.”

“So then, I’d be an acceptable asshole to have a go?”

I sigh dramatically, not knowing where I can go with this. Either way I’m setting myself up to be a target when it comes to her, or even worse, I’d be setting her up to be one more than she is too. But before I can answer, Banks add, “I guess we don’t have to worry about me right now anyway, because Tucker seems to be shadowing her like a lost puppy.”

My eyes narrow as I turn to where Banks has his gaze set, and sure enough, there Tucker stands, a little too close to Hendrix. I’ve managed to avoid this for the last few days, but I don’t even realise how much it pisses me off seeing it - until I’ve stomped all the way over to them.

Well, this should be interesting….

 

 

Goodreads / Amazon


Author Bio:

Kathleen grew up in the south-western suburbs of Sydney, where family holidays by the beach and tormenting her two younger brothers, was how she spent her early years. But at the young age of 11, when she submitted a short story to a talented writing competition through the NSW schools program, not only did she win it, but she quickly found a love for it as well.

Throughout her schooling, writing was a hobby, along with sketching and various sports. But fast forward to her adult years when she moved to Europe to follow her husbands field hockey dream, and her love for writing surged to the surface.
Her debut story, Cut, was penned over two years where her hobby seemed to lead to the completion of Pennys' world. The rest of the series came the following year.

Kathleen enjoys writing stories full of self-discovery, emotional journeys and of course, love.
Something else she loves is hearing from her readers, so feel free to follow her blog or drop her an email.

For signed copies of her novels, more information about upcoming stories, or to follow her blog, please visit her website www.kathleenmaree.weebly.com

Dream often. Believe always.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram


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Wednesday 28 April 2021

Buried for Good by Alex Coombs @rararesources


 

Buried For Good

On a remote island, everyone is a suspect...

 When Private Investigator Hanlon is hired to protect famous yoga instructor Camille Anderson on her Scottish island retreat, she thinks this may be her simplest job yet.

But when an attack on Camille's life goes wrong, it soon becomes clear that there is a murderer on the island - and Hanlon will stop at nothing to track them down.

 With only a small group of guests the suspects are clear, but as the body count rises Hanlon must step up to find out who the killer is before it’s too late...

 A tense, atmospheric page-turner from Alex Coombs. Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons and Lisa Regan.




My Thoughts 



Alex Coombs does not disappoint in this third installment of the Private Investigator Hanlon series. "Buried for Good." 

Famous yoga instructor Camille Anderson is feeling under threat someone is trying to cause her harm, but who could it possibly be? She hires private investigator Hanlon for protection. An easy job? Or so Hanlon thought. As the mystery unfolds you are taken to a retreat on an island where everything appears not as they seem. Who is guilty? Who is innocent? What do they want? Hanlon will stop at nothing to get answer.

This story was epic.

I really enjoyed the element of mystery and danger in it. Coombs is a really good writer because all the events were well timed and made for an action packed page turning novel. Hanlon is a very interesting character in my opinion. She is strong and good at what she does. Since Buried for Good is the  third book in the series (I only realized that after), I appreciated that it read like a standalone. 

I am looking forward to reading more.

Great story! Superb writing!







Author Bio 

Alex Coombs studied Arabic at Oxford and Edinburgh Universities and went on to work in adult education and then retrained to be a chef. He is the author of the highly acclaimed DCI Hanlon series.

Social Media Links –

Newsletter sign up: http://bit.ly/AlexCoombsNewsletter

Website - http://www.alexcoombs.co.uk/

Twitter https://twitter.com/AlexCoombsCrime

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AlexCoombsCrime




 








Saturday 24 April 2021

BLOG TOUR; PHOTOGRAPHED IN THE WRITER'S ROOM BY MICHELLE L. E. PRICE @rararesources


 

Today on the blog I am happy to present; "Photographed in the Writer’s Room by Michelle l. E. Price."


Former TV star Brandi Tyler's big screen debut crashed and burned amid rumors of an affair with her married co-star… Now, she wants nothing more than to quietly slink away from Hollywood. When she's offered an opportunity to get out of town and work on a project involving the photographer that launched her career, it seems like the perfect escape! Unfortunately for Brandi, her famous face makes hiding out even a huge city like Houston a little tricky.

When the celebrated photographer's son offers to let her use his home for privacy, it seems like everything is falling into place. Little does she know that Michael Ames a gorgeous bestselling author, and he comes with the package! As Brandi makes her way through old photographs and new scandals, Michael struggles with his next project, and they both fight the growing attraction between them.

Maybe a posse of new girlfriends, some Texas-sized boozy brunches, and a little private time in the writer's room will help this leading lady find her path back onscreen. And, if she can just picture it, maybe this time she'll even find love?





My thoughts

Picture this, you are on vacation on a tropical island and you decide to relax with a book on the beach. You have a number of books to choose from and you're wondering "What should I choose?" Let me help you choose Photographed in the Writer's Room by Michelle L. E. Price. This story simply put was just a nice story. A story that you can read in one sitting but there was a little of everything intrigue, comedy, romance.

Brandi Tyler a TV turned movie star has become unsure of her future in acting since her debut movie crashed and burned. The story follows Brandi as she tries to reassess her life. Having been offered an opportunity to work for a personal concierge service; How May I help You, in Texas to organize the photography collection of deceased photographer  Brighton Ames (the photographer who launched her career), Brandi saw this as an opportunity for a fresh start. Little did she know that waiting for her in Texas was Ames' very good looking and famous writer son Michael.

Michael's character was a surprise to me because at first I thought well ok, guy meets girl, finds her beautiful and fall in love game over. Michael though epitomized an author. I love how Ms. Price went deep with these characters (Brandi and Michael) she spoke to the challenges and emotions of both being a writer, suffering from writer's block and the feelings of loneliness that sometimes comes with it. 

Further Brandi's challenges with having fame and the what next factor made me connect with her on a very deep level. It was in my opinion important for Brandi and Michael to form a connection. The story also spoke to the importance of friendships so I really enjoyed reading about the girls and their brunches filled with laughs and wine.

In all, this story as we say in the Caribbean had "vibes". Meaning it was very nice and I enjoyed it. 

So remember next time you going the the beach or just want to kick back with a book and relax, pick this one up.

Click to purchase




About the author 

Born in Montreal but raised in New England, author Michelle L. E. Price has been writing as long as anyone can remember. An avid reader who was on the verge of losing her mind as a mom to two small children, Michelle began writing her first book, Hidden in the Writer’s Room, as an escape… at least her characters would do exactly what she told them to do and she could always count on a happily ever after ending. She also enjoys wine, re-watching 90’s sitcoms and occasionally running, but heavily relies on writing to stay sane. Michelle is a firm believer that laughter and love are the best parts of life.

Author Links 

Instagram / Twitter



Friday 23 April 2021

BLOG TOUR: HOW TO NAIL A STUD by KATHARINE SADLER #xpressotours

 

How to Nail a Stud
Katharine Sadler

Publication date: April 16th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Shel is tired of dating men who don’t appreciate her rock and roll wardrobe or her tomboy tendencies. She’s swearing off dating, and she is not going to give another moment’s thought to the hot single dad next door. She is not going to waste a single moment dwelling on his muscles or his eyes or the way he plays with his adorable six-year-old daughter.

Max has made mistakes, he’s been a terrible father, and he has no problem spending the rest of his life atoning by being the best, most devoted parent he can possibly be. A devoted father does not have wicked thoughts about his sexy neighbor, and he most certainly does not consider an actual relationship.

Except, he can’t stop thinking about Shel, and he’s not sure what to do about it.

Goodreads / Amazon


Book Review 3.5⭐

Simply put!!! I fell absolutely in love with this story.

I love the fact that this was a romance with a very captivating and rich story line.

Shel, the daughter of famous rock stars intends to lead a quiet life and then she meets her neighbor Max, a single father with rugged good looks. He is drawn to Shel's good nature and of course her beauty. Max has a secret about his past that if revealed prematurely could destroy any chance he has of happiness with Shel. Meanwhile Shel's ex, TJ, intent on getting fame with no talent is trying to ruin her life. 

A very well sequenced romance. I say this because the events just fell nicely into place to make this a feel good story. The characters all held equal importance. I absolutely adored Addy's and Max's relationship that was such a nice touch. The message in the story was also really well written and made me think about the other side of fame., the side that the public does not see, the loneliness. the rumors and all the other challenges that come with it.

Shel's childhood experiences were a good place to start in the book because it led the reader to experience what her life was like throughout.

Max's character was so dreamy, and the way he and Shel connected was just magical.

The ending very happy..... Loved it.

I hope to read more Katharine Sadler books in the future



 Author Bio:

 Katharine Sadler lives with her husband in North   Carolina. She’s been writing since she was ten and has wanted to be a writer even longer. When she’s not writing or otherwise gainfully occupied, she reads like it’s an addiction, exercises, skis whenever she gets the chance, and adds more books to her Amazon wish list.

Visit her on the web at www.KatharineSadler.com.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter


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Wednesday 21 April 2021

BLOG TOUR: DUCHESS IF YOU DARE BY ANABELLE BRYANT @rararesources


 

Duchess If You Dare

From the glittering ballrooms of the ton to the city's grittiest corners, London has no shortage of wrongs in need of righting--and the Maidens of Mayhem are prepared for the challenge. United by secrecy and sisterhood, these daring women from all walks of life aim to fight injustice wherever it takes them--even into the arms of unexpected love. This feminist take on Regency-era Robin Hoods from USA Today bestselling author Anabelle Bryant is destined to storm readers' hearts!

Scarlett Wynn's tragic childhood taught her that life can be cruel to women with little power. So when a local seamstress disappears, Scarlett vows to find out why. Armed with a weapon and her courage, Scarlett scours London for clues--and crosses the unlikely path of Ambrose Cross, the Duke of Aylesford, at an unlikely place: an upscale brothel. The Duke is trying to solve a mystery of his own, and Scarlett is sure they can help each other--if she can resist the attraction that draws them together...

As Duke of Aylesford, Ambrose is duty-bound to protect his family name from scandal no matter the cost. But Scarlett's fearless spirit forces him to look beyond his world of privilege. Scarlett is as intoxicating as she is dangerous, igniting a fire in him like no other. When the pair learn both mysteries they're trying to solve are tied to a string of missing women, the tangled scheme they uncover may put their lives, and their growing love, in mortal danger--and lead them to search their hearts like never before...

"A delightful historical romance with a liberal dash of adventure, plenty of sizzling heat, and a heart of pure gold. A superb start to Bryant's new Maidens of Mayhem series"

--Lenora Bell, USA Today bestselling author

"Duchess if You Dare is a fantastic read that kept me up late and has me anxiously awaiting the next book in the series."

--USA Today Bestselling Author Renee Ann Miller




Review 3.5 ⭐

What an adventure!!!

They say you should not judge a book by its cover but honestly as soon as I saw this book cover I knew that I would enjoy this book and it did not disappoint.

Set in London in the regency era, Scarlett and the Maidens of Mayhem, fight to rid the city of injustices in whatever form. 

When Linie, Scarlett's seamstress goes missing she immediately suspects something amiss. The case takes her to a  brothel which, for Scarlett brings back painful memories. Meanwhile Ambrose, the Duke of Aylesford, in having to deal with his reckless brother Martin's wildness ends up at he establishment. But things take a turn......

As Scarlett's and Aylesford's paths lead them towards the same mysterious circumstances they become bound together by duty and a sizzling attraction.

Scarlett possessed a strength that was rarely seen in women of tha era. Although this was a work of fiction and meant to be entertaining I could not help being drawn to the important topics. The Duke had me swooning from the very beginning and his attraction to Scarlett had me at the edge of my seat literally. 

This story was written with everyone in mind. A true masterpiece.

I cannot wait to see what is next.

Well done!!!!

Click to purchase







Author Bio –

USA Today Bestselling author Anabelle Bryant began reading at age three and never stopped. Her passion for reading soon turned into a passion for writing and an author was born. Happy to grab her suitcase if it ensures a new adventure, Anabelle finds endless inspiration in travel; especially imaginary jaunts into romantic Regency England, a far cry from her home in New Jersey. Instead, her clever characters live out her daydreams because really, who wouldn't want to dance with a handsome duke or kiss a wicked earl?

Anabelle's books have been translated into several languages including Japanese and Russian, but writing isn't all that keeps her busy. Building miniatures, baking and photography are other favorite pastimes. Often found with her nose in a book, Anabelle is just as happy in a room full of people. She enjoys meeting readers, attending conferences and book signings. She has earned her Master's Degree and is ABD for her Doctorate Degree in education.

A firm believer in romance, Anabelle knows sometimes life doesn't provide a happily ever after, but her novels always do. Visit her website at AnabelleBryant.com


Anabelle Bryant Links


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Thursday 15 April 2021

COVER REVEAL THE SAVAGE HUNT BY CHRISTY SLOAT

 

  

Title: The Savage Hunt
Author: Christy Sloat
Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Fantasy
Publication Date: April 29th, 2021
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:
Amon has seen it all in the thousands of years he's walked this earth.  As a demon, he's only ever wanted to live and feed unnoticed. But his need for blood always brought trouble. Finally, he’s devised a foolproof plan to meet his needs and the needs of monsters like him. With the help of his demon son, a bloodthirsty vampire, a dark witch, and two very feral sirens, they will hunt humans who have sinned in the vilest ways. This savage hunt will not only feed them but deliver revenge the humans so desire. His flawless plan won’t ever shatter. He’d bet his existence on it.

Christy Sloat resides in New Jersey with her husband, two daughters, and her Chihuahua, Sophie. Christy has embraced the love of reading and writing since her youth and was inspired by her grandmother's loving support. She loves adventurous journeys with her friends and can be known to get lost inside a bookstore.

 

Author Links:

Amazon | Facebook | Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Bookbub






COVER REVEAL: KISS AND TELL BY L.L. HUNTER

 

 

Title: Truth or Dare
Author: L.L. Hunter 
Genre: YA Contemporary Romantic Suspense, Mystery
Cover Designer: Emily Wittig
Publication Date: May 31st, 2021
Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR

Blurb:

More secrets are unearthed in the second instalment of the Summervale series.

 

After realising their relationship is now forbidden, Darcie and Dane must find a way to be together all the while keeping it secret.

 

But rumours spread like wildfire in Summervale…

 

When their romance is exposed due to a cruel prank, their alibi begins to unravel.

And when the killer strikes again, this time closer to home, Darcie and Dane must uncover the real killer before they go down for something they didn’t do.

This time, the path to the truth may lead them closer to their skeletons buried than they’d prefer.



L.L. Hunter is the author of over 20 published works, including The Legend of the Archangel Series and The Garden of Eden. She has studied everything from veterinary nursing, forensic science, and dramatic arts, but has always known her true calling was to be an author. 

She has been writing since her teens - everything from fan fiction, to song lyrics, to plays and musicals. When not working on her next paranormal romance, she can be found at home in Australia, reading somewhere comfortable with one or both of her “fur babies.” Follow her on Facebook, Twitter @llhunterbooks, and her blog - http://llhunter.blogspot.com.au.

Author Links:



AUDIO BLITZ: THE BOYFRIEND BET by CHRIS CANNON

 

 

Title: The Boyfriend Bet
Author: Chris Cannon
Genre: YA RomCom
Narrator: Tim Paige & Penelope Rose
Audio Producer: The Audio Flow, LLC
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:

This Entangled Teen Crush book contains multiple PDAs, after-school detentions, and gambling on the side. Warning: betting on a boyfriend is bad for your health.

 

Zoe Cain knows that Grant Evertide is way out of her league. So naturally, she kisses him. Out of spite. Not only is Grant her brother’s number-one nemesis, but he has zero interest in being tied down to one girl. She’s shocked—and secretly thrilled—when they start spending more time together.

 

Zoe’s brother claims Grant is trying to make her his “Ringer,” an oh-so-charming tradition where a popular guy dates a non-popular girl until he hooks up with her, then dumps her. Zoe threatens to neuter Grant with hedge clippers if he's lying but Grant swears he isn’t trying to trick her. Still, that doesn’t mean Grant is the commitment type—even if winning a bet is on the line.

 

Each book in the Boyfriend Chronicles series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order.



Chris Cannon is the award-winning author of the Going Down In Flames series and the Boyfriend Chronicles. She lives in Southern Illinois with her husband and several furry beasts.

She believes coffee is the Elixir of Life. Most evenings after work, you can find her sucking down caffeine and writing fire-breathing paranormal adventures or romantic comedies. You can find her online at www.chriscannonauthor.com.


Author Links:


Tuesday 13 April 2021

Book Review:The Fred Valentine Show A Novel Episode 1 by Vincent Glen

 




Blurb:



The Fred Valentine Show is a novelization of a theatrical musical comedy play that takes place in front of a live theater audience inside of a beautiful, ritzy hotel on the fabulous Las Vegas Strip. The show stars Fred, a lovable St. Bernard dog who's a standup comedian.


Review 3⭐

What a hilarious, fun read!

This book was written cleverly, I think that the author is very 
talented to execute a story as this one simply because this was very easy to read and written in the play format I was able as a reader to feel as if I was in a theatre watching a live performance.

I am not much a fan of comedy usually but I must say that this story had me in stiches. Those animals were wonderful. The hotel owner Abner was quite a character, I liked the role of Tutty as well but the absolute hands down star of the book was Mama Lulu. I was reading some of her parts in public and laughing so hard people thought I was crazy hahaha.

Comedy fans check this one out. It is a whole lot of fun and laughs.

Much thanks to the author for sending me this book.

Well done!!!




Friday 9 April 2021

Book Blitz: A Destiny in Sapphire by Jessica Florence

 

 

Title: A Destiny in Sapphire
Author: Jessica Florence

Genre: Dystopian Fantasy
Cover Designer: Sarah Hansen with Okay Creations
Publication Date: April 7th, 2021
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:
Everything I knew died when the end of the world came. People dropped dead, and electricity vanished. Those who remained alive were never the same again. 

While on the run with my boyfriend Tor across the desolate continent, the worst humanity had left attacked. Torn from the one I love, I boldly raced for help at the last human safe zone.

Only it’s not humans I found, but the Fae.

Now I have one month to rescue my boyfriend and release a savior princess from an onyx tomb or lose them both forever. A seemingly impossible task when Rune, a cursed, pain in the ass Fae warrior is assigned to train me. He's hellbent on freeing his beloved princess and I’m desperate to save Tor. But no matter how hard we snarl during training; we can’t stay away from each other.

I thought the worst thing that could happen to me was the apocalypse.

I was wrong.



Jessica Florence writes the stories that her fellow nerds yearn for.

From Superheroes to Sexy Truckers, Jessica is known to give readers unique tales of hope where love conquers all. Stories that melt away reality and take you on a journey with the characters. If escapism is what you are looking for, then look no further. Jessica is the Queen of weaving the tales you may not normally pick up but find yourself not being able to put down.

Jessica's always had a love of reading, and her love of books lead her to start writing in the 9th grade. She quickly learned that storytelling was her passion. Inspired by movies, music, and her personal life she writes like it's the very air she breathes. Through her writing it's evident that she lives for the stories she creates.

Jessica grew up in North Carolina, and currently resides in Southwest Florida with her daughter, husband, and German Shepherd. She loves to be outside, write in her hammock, and collect tea mugs.

Author Links:




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