Book Musings - The Prince's Surprise Bride by Devika Fernando

Title : The Prince's Surprise Bride
Author : Devika Fernando
Series : Royal Romance, Book 3
Genre : Romance, Contemporary
Source : Review copy from the author

Blurb :

When Jessica is accidentally involved in the kidnapping of the Crown Prince of Eirik, her life turns upside down. Not only does she start questioning everything she has taken for granted, but she also falls head over heels in love with the charming Norse royal. Reality returns with a vengeance after their short but exhilarating time together, and Jessica is forced to bury all hopes for a love-filled fairytale and fight for her future as well as her ailing father’s health. But then Prince Erik makes her an offer too good to refuse. Should she listen to her heart or her head?


Prince Erik has always put his kingdom before himself, but that changes when fate tempts him with this amazing woman from Germany. He is determined to win Jessica over, even if it means opening up old wounds. When push comes to shove and not only his heart but also his country is at stake, will he find the strength to make love overcome all obstacles thrown into their path?

My Musings :

I am in love.. I am in love... I am in love! That's how I feel after reading this book. I was singing the song from Dhadkan because I fell so hard for Erik!!

Even if the book was a bit longer with the focus on Erik I would have  happily continued reading it. I feel that Jessica might have been a bit overshadowed by Erik but only slightly because she has a separate appeal to her. This is a book which has appealed to me because of both characters and story. Erik is such a special person. He isn't like a normal prince, he is down to earth and not domineering but a tiny bit aloof with people outside his circle. The way he reacts to Jessica is intriguing and adorable. I know that's an unusual combination but that's what I felt while reading their story.

The heroine, Jessica was burned in her past so I can understand her reticence in having faith in Erik. She is not fazed by material wealth but she gets timid because of the past hurt. What made me love her was her determination near the end to stand by Erik inspite of her doubts. I understand how much she had to get beyond herself to accomplish that.She reveals her courage when she needs it.

Another enjoyable part was the re-introduction of characters from the previous books in the series which show them in various stages of their lives. I love knowing the post life of a book's characters!
There is no dearth of new side characters too. I loved meeting Erik's family and friends. I admit I was not enamoured of Siv but I could understand where she was coming from. The characters I am most curious about are Erik's sister, the Queen and Siv. I think they have interesting stories of their own for us. *hint hint*

If the characters are golden in my opinion, the story is no less. It starts with a bang! The kidnapping paves the way to know the mettle of the protagonists. The flow of the tale was in a quick manner with no unnecessary scenes and the language was easy to follow. The author's writing shines in the interactions between the protagonists and in keeping a reader's attention without being diverted at any point.

The romance was perfect in my opinion, neither too steamy but with the right amount of love and lust to be in perfect sync with the characters. I recommend this book to all the romance lovers out there! But beware of the cliff hanger ending. The author has a bad habit of making me eager to read the next book in the series with her interconnected endings!

I received a review copy from the author and that fact doesn't shadow or change my review in any way.

My one line review : A loveable set of characters and an interesting soft romance!

My rating : 5/5

My reread factor : 4/5

Floryie

Sale Blitz - Pretend It's Love by Stefanie London

One fake relationship shaken not stirred…

PRETEND IT'S LOVE

Behind the Bar #2

Stefanie London

Entangled Lovestruck

Bar manager Paul Chapman is sick of his family’s traditional ideals. Marriage, babies, and a white picket fence? Not his gig. But now that his ‘golden child’ big brother is tying the knot, Paul’s screwed. His ex will be there…and she’s having his cousin’s baby. Unless he wants to show up to the wedding alone and face his family’s scrutiny, he needs a girl on his arm. Now.

Cocktail specialist Libby Harris has spent her life earning the nickname Little Miss Perfect, all to win the love of her wealthy, controlling father. But she deviated from his plan, and now her business is on shaky ground. If it fails, she might as well kiss his respect-and her dream-good-bye. Her only hope? Convince the hottest bar in town to take on her product.

                                          

Luckily for her, the owner’s brother is sexy as sin and in need of a perfect girlfriend…

A voracious reader, USA Today Bestselling author, Stefanie London has dreamed of being an author her whole life. After sneaking several English Lit subjects into her very practical Business degree, she got a job in corporate communications. But it wasn't long before she turned to romance fiction. She recently left her hometown of Melbourne to start a new adventure in Toronto and now spends her days writing contemporary romances with humour, heat and heart.

Book Blitz - The Fell by Lyndsey Harper

Welcome to the blog tour of The Fell by Lyndsey Harper. Dwell into the post to know more about the book and the author.

Blurb :

After the brutal death of his mentor, Leer Boxwell's only desire is vengeance. However, his belief that the murderer is the mythical Grimbarror has made him the laughing stock of the Vale. When Leer witnesses the beast steal away the princess in an unexpected attack on the royal city, he volunteers to hunt the creature. Battling self-doubt and ridicule, while struggling to control a mysterious power within that he does not fully understand, Leer must decide whether his convictions are worth the sacrifice the Fell demands.

AMAZON

Excerpt:

A hush fell over the inn; the fiddle music screeched to an abrupt halt.

Bilby’s eyes narrowed. “What did you say?” he asked.

“I said,” Leer repeated, “I wish to know everything you know about the Grimbarror.”

Callous laughter exploded through the men and few barmaids present, ripples of mockery piercing Leer’s ears.

“You well-washed loon,” Bilby cackled, slapping his knee through his amusement. “You wish to hear fairy tales, is that it?”

Leer’s jaw flexed as he clamped his molars together. “I seek the truth.”

“Hah!” Bilby screeched. “Would you like a cup of warm milk to go with your bedtime story, Boy?”

Leer squeezed his eyes shut briefly, trying to push away the reverberating voices around him. “Are you, or are you not, the Marcus Bilby that Finnigan Lance spoke of?” he demanded. “The one whose life he saved?”

Another wave of eerie silence fell over the inn. Bilby leaned in, gripping the table with white knuckles. “What name did you say?” he asked.

“Finnigan Lance,” Leer enunciated.

“Curse you for speaking that name,” Bilby snarled, spitting on the ground.

“Cheating scoundrel, he was,” a man bellowed from the rear of the crowd.

“Nothin’ but a drink bloated habbersnitch.” another agreed.

“You’d better have good reason for speaking that name in this place, Boy,” Bilby warned, leaning forward.

“He wasn’t a cheat,” Leer snapped. “You peddled furs with him. You worked with him, and he saved your life from insurgents. And I do believe you owe him a favor.”

A murmur trickled through the crowd, sending Bilby into visible panic as his peers reacted to the revelation.

“And what?” Bilby retorted with a scoff. “Lance has come back from the dead to claim it?”

Leer’s jaw flexed. Finnigan’s death was still fresh in his mind; it had not been long since he found his bloodied, mauled corpse. “Nay. You’ll pay your debt to him through answering my questions.”

Bilby’s eyes narrowed. “And just who are you to lay claim to any favors?”

Leer held his gaze. “His son.”

Meet the Author 

Lyndsey is a brilliant author you’ve likely never heard of, Superwife, and award-winning mother living life in leggings in the expensive and overcrowded state of New Jersey. She is fluent in Spanglish and Sarcasm and enjoys watching Arrow, Supernatural, Psych, and The X-Files repeatedly. You can find her either in the grocery store buying laundry detergent, Tylenol, and cat litter, hovering near her Keurig coffee brewer, or shaking her fist at the heavens in front of her computer. Occasionally, you may spot her on the beach or out shopping (when she actually has money to spare). However, you should avoid approaching her at such times as she is likely enjoying a rare moment of relaxation and can become moody if interrupted. If you decide to engage her during any one of these activities, approach with caution and a sizable cup of Starbucks in hand to avoid any ill effects.

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Book Blitz - Child of the Night Guild by Andy Peloquin

Welcome to the blog tour of Child of the Night Guild by Andy Peloquin. Read on to know more about the book and the author.

Vicious, ruthless criminals are made, not born. Child of the Night Guild—an insight into the transformation from innocent child to thief and killer. 

Publication Date: Jan 17, 2017

Blurb:

Child of the Night Guild (Queen of Thieves Book 1)
"They killed my parents. They took my name. They imprisoned me in darkness. I would not be broken."

Viola, a child sold to pay her father's debts, has lost everything: her mother, her home, and her identity. Thrown into a life among criminals, she has no time for grief as she endures the brutal training of an apprentice thief. The Night Guild molds an innocent waif into a cunning, agile outlaw skilled in the thieves' trade. She has only one choice: steal enough to pay her debts.

The cutthroat streets of Praamis will test her mettle, and she must learn to dodge the City Guards or swing from a hangman's rope. But a more dangerous foe lurks within the guild walls. A sadistic rival apprentice, threatened by her strength, is out for blood.

What hope does one girl have in a world of ruthless men?

Fans of Sarah J. Maas, Scott Lynch, and Brent Weeks will love the Hunter…

Buy Links:

 Amazon Kindle       Amazon Canada         Goodreads 

Book Launch Event:  https://www.facebook.com/events/336765836707837/

Join my Thunderclap: http://thndr.me/fdeiQu 

Reviews:

"Creative, gritty, and beautifully dark...fantasy addicts will love it!" -- Peter Story, author of Things Grak Hates -- http://peterjstory.com/

"The fantasy world has a compelling new antihero…the Hunter will terrify and captivate you." - Eve A Floriste, author of Fresh Cut

"From the first words on the page this fantasy holds the reader spellbound even after the book is finished…his character is very well-defined even if his past is a mystery. Root for an assassin? Oh, yes, one must!" -- Carol Conley, for InDTale Magazine

"Oh the carnage! Fantastic bloodthirsty carnage! The fight scenes in this book were fast-paced, detailed and thrilling. I love a good sword fight and there is plenty of that here." -- Ami L. Hart

"One could get lost in this novel for its twisting plots, seemingly endless imagination, dark yet irresistible characters, or the mind-numbing paradox of its simultaneously dark and romantic world. One could follow the long and winding road of the dusky, fierce protagonist and fight tooth and nail not to sympathize with him. One could dance in the dizzying, intricate circles of Peloquin's neo-mythology, or even basque in the black sunlight of a well-crafted gothic novel that both entertains and enlightens." -- Jesse G. Christiansen

Excerpt :

"Are you sure you're doing it right, Seven?"

Seven scrunched her face, concentrating hard. "I'm doing it just like he showed us, Three. See?" She attempted to snatch the purse.

Three patted the oversized waistcoat Master Velvet had given him.

"I could still feel it. So you're doing something wrong."

Frustration mounting, Seven tried again, doing exactly as Master Velvet had taught them. Walk toward the mark. Bump into him. Dip two fingers into his pocket to hook the purse. Apologize to the mark and touch him with my free hand. Hide the purse in my palm and hurry away.

He shook his head. "That time, too. I can feel you pulling the purse out when you move away. Maybe you need to do it faster."

"I can't do it faster, Three. Not yet, at least." Seven clenched her fists in frustration.

He held up a hand. "It's okay, Seven. Give it time. You'll get it."

"Here." She threw him the bulging, cloth-stuffed purse. "Let me try again." Even as she tugged the purse free, the look on Three's face told her she'd failed.

Her friend shrugged. "Still felt it."

Seven ground her teeth. Master Velvet said this is supposed to be easy. So why can't I get it right?

Three tugged the vest over his head. "Let's give the bump a break for a moment." He pulled a dun-colored cloak around his shoulders. "What say we give the snatch a try?"

Seven nodded. The snatch required timing and dexterity, but she'd grown adept at it. She walked toward Three, brushed against his cloak, and lifted the purse from the hidden pocket, all without breaking stride.

Three's eyes widened. "Damn, Seven. I didn't feel a thing!"

She beamed. "Well, at least there's one thing I'm good at."

Master Velvet strode up behind her and took her small, muddy hands. "You've got good finger-work, tyro." He ran his calloused hands over her fingers. "They're quick and nimble. With the right training, you could become quite the purse collector."

"Thank you, Master Velvet." She flushed at his praise. It was the first full compliment she'd ever heard pass his lips.

"Keep it up, Seven. Three." With a nod, he moved to the next pair of tyros.

Three slapped her on the shoulder. "Look at that! You're getting there."

"Yeah. Now if only I could get the bump down properly." She held out her arms. "Here, give me the vest and cloak. You've got to practice, too."

As Three passed her the clothing, Twelve's shout echoed through the Menagerie. "Damn it! You're doing it wrong, you stupid sack of shite."

Two met Twelve's glare without a trace of fear. "How in the Keeper's name can I be doing it wrong, Twelve?" Two was taller than Twelve, though not as broad. "I'm standing here in this vest. You’re supposed to be pulling the damned purse."

"Well…" Twelve faltered, his face reddening. With a snarl, he threw the purse in Two's face and stormed off.

Three snorted. "Looks like he's not doing much better than you are, Seven."

Seven glared at her friend. "That's not saying much for me, you know. With those fat sausage fingers, he can barely fit his hands in the pocket."

"There you go." He gave her a broad grin. "You've got the advantage, at least over him. Just give it time and you'll get better at it."

She rolled her eyes. "Well, let's see how good you are."

"I'll bet you a peach I can do the bump better than you."

"You're on!"

Meet the Author : 

Andy Peloquin: Lover of All Things Dark and Mysterious 

I am, first and foremost, a storyteller and an artist--words are my palette. Fantasy is my genre of choice, and I love to explore the darker side of human nature through the filter of fantasy heroes, villains, and everything in between. I'm also a freelance writer, a book lover, and a guy who just loves to meet new people and spend hours talking about my fascination for the worlds I encounter in the pages of fantasy novels.

Fantasy provides us with an escape, a way to forget about our mundane problems and step into worlds where anything is possible. It transcends age, gender, religion, race, or lifestyle--it is our way of believing what cannot be, delving into the unknowable, and discovering hidden truths about ourselves and our world in a brand new way. Fiction at its very best!

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10 Things You Need to Know About Me: 

Hot wings, ALWAYS!

I never forget a face, but rarely remember a name.

I'm a head taller than the average person (I'm 6' 6")

Marvel > DC

I was born in Japan, and lived there until the age of 14.

Selena Gomez, Skrillex, Simon & Garfunkel, Celine Dion, and Five Finger Death Punch are all in my writing playlist.

Aliens are real, but it's self-centered of us to believe that they would come to visit Earth.

Watching sports: suck. Playing sports: EPIC!

I earned a purple belt in Karate/Hapkido/Taekwondo.

I dislike most Christmas music, aside from Trans-Siberian Orchestra.


A Few of My Favorite Things

Favorite Books: The Gentlemen Bastards by Scott Lynch, The Stormlight Archives by Brandon Sanderson, Sherlock Holmes by A.C. Doyle, Warlord of Mars by E.R. Burroughs

Favorite Songs: Wrong Side of Heaven by Five Finger Death Punch, Prayer by Disturbed, I'm an Albatraoz by AronChupa, Look Down from Les Miserables, Shatter Me by Lindsay Sterling and Lizzi Hale

Favorite Movies: 300, Red Cliff, Shoot Em Up, Love Actually, Princess Bride

Favorite Comics: Anything with Deadpool, Wolverine or Doop in it

Favorite Foods: Hot Wings, Meat-Lover's Salad, A good sandwich (made by me), Yaki Soba, Sushi

Favorite TV Shows: The Flash, Daredevil, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Hawaii Five-0, Brooklyn 99, Firefly (too soon!), The Last Ship, The Walking Dead, Game of Thrones

Blog Tour / Book Musings - Journey to the Rift by Cathi Shaw

Welcome to the blog tour of Journey to the Rift by Cathi Shaw. I am hosting it on my blog today with my review.

Journey to the Rift

by Cathi Shaw

Genre: YA Fantasy

Release Date: November 3rd 2016

Ink Smith Publishing

Blurb :

A dangerous quest into a forbidden land wasn’t exactly what Brijit Carnesîr was planning after her graduation from the Academy. For years she has looked forward starting her life as a member of the Coimirceoirí and she is thrilled to discover that she has been chosen as the Academy Apprentice of her year. But despite the fact that she has been longing to go to Séreméla and work with the Elders, it soon becomes apparent that her fate isn’t as rosy as it appears to be. First, she is paired up with a grumpy male apprentice from Stone Mountain, Weylon Forborrow. Second, it doesn’t take her long to discover that the Elders are not taking her to Séreméla, as tradition dictates. Instead, Weylon and her are sent to The Rift, a dead land tainted with evil. Even before they join the Elder royalty at Tèarmann, an ancient fortress on the cusp of the Rift, Brijit discovers that the Elders are hiding too many things. She is given the task of helping the Princess in birthing the long awaited Queen of the Elders but nothing is as it seems. There is talk of an old and forgotten Prophecy, Weylon is attacked by a creature from the Rift and her grandmother is killed, after revealing a secret that rocks everything Brijit knows about her past. Soon Brijit questions everything she had been led to believe and, worse, she realizes that the future of Séreméla and all of Five Corners is in jeopardy, unless she can find a way to save it!

Add to Goodreads

Buy Links:

Amazon print US | Amazon kindle US | Amazon print CA | Amazon kindle CA | Barnes & Noble | Chapters Indigo

My Musings :

Another new author to me and I am thankful that I found her. This itself should convey to you that I loved the book! Anyway read on to know what my thoughts are on it.

There are certain themes which instantly appeal to me. One such is the protagonists present in a school atmosphere in a fantasy setting. Maybe it's an aftereffect of Harry Potter, I don't know. But I love reading that type of books. So the beginning was based in a school of sorts and the situation also captivated me with its mysterious undertones. Actually the vein of mystery kept me going till the end. For that, I have to compliment the author. She knows how to keep a reader's interest which might be difficult at times. We, the readers, can be flighty at times!

The progression of the story was natural and smooth. The scenes are interwoven expertly without much information leaking out unnecessarily and I was parched with interest to know more.

The protagonists, Brijit and Weylon are both strong in their own right. Brijit, though feels tough, is actually a soft person but with the inner strength to get her through the toughest situations. She is an admirable meld of strength and vulnerability. As for Weylon, he had my attention from the start because of his attitude! Oh my, I couldn't get more of him! He is the perfect foil for Brijit. He is tough inside and out but with a touch of soft feelings for Brijit which kind of appealed to me. The only part which I didn't like about him was his reaction to her actions which is understandable but meh.. he should be above it!!! Oh well! But he is still my favourite.

After reading so many fantasy books, after a while, the setting of a book seems familiar and it's hard to be motivated to be interested in it so much that the time flies. Though this book has few familiar themes like the discrimination of magic users, etc., there is so much information which still isn't revealed that I have been eager to read the sequel. Actually right now, I have so many questions like Who are the Elders? What is the Rift? What will happen to Weylon? etc., And the book doesn't help at all with the ending, which again leads to a question. The author loves to keep the reader guessing, I think!

I felt that the book was a very short read but long enough to whet my appetite. The pace was steady with no dips at all and the writing had me going with the flow of the tale. There was always something to question or wonder about while reading. I like this style of writing and I hope the author continues with it in her other books. Actually I have been peeking into her other books and I have found another series based in the same world. So I will be checking them out next. Maybe I should have read them before this book even though it reads as a standalone!

All in all, I can say that my fantasy craving has been satisfied splendidly! I can recommend this book to all those out there who have my likes.

I received the book free of charge for an honest review. This doesn't impact my impression and thoughts about the story. What I have written is my own opinion.

My rating : 5/5

My one line review : A fantasy of age old themes with their own spark

My reread factor : 3.5/5

Meet the Author

Cathi Shaw lives in Summerland, BC with her husband and three children. She is often found wandering around her home, muttering in a seemingly incoherent manner, particularly when her characters have embarked on new adventure. In addition to writing fiction, she is the co-author of the textbook Writing Today and the true story, Surviving Logan.

Author Links:

Website│Goodreads│Twitter│Facebook

Don't forget to enter the giveaway generously hosted by Cathi Shaw!

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Blog Tour Organized by:

YA Bound Book Tours

Blog Tour / Book Musings - To Tempt A Viscount by Naomi Boom

Welcome to the blog tour of To Tempt a Viscount by Naomi Boom. I am hosting today an excerpt of the book along with my review. I hope you enjoy the post highlighting the book and the author.

To Tempt a Viscount

Entangled Nobility #1

By: Naomi Boom

Releasing January 13, 2017

The Wild Rose Press, Inc.

Blurb

Lady Laura Rosing knows two things: first, she will marry for love, and second, she detests rakes. When she meets Lord Gavin Farris, she understands immediately that he fails both her criteria, and worse yet, he is an absolute cad who refuses to leave her be.

Lord Farris has always appreciated women and cannot understand why Lady Laura is so resistant to his charms. While pretty, she is not his usual type, but something about her intrigues him. Much to his chagrin, he finds himself desperately in love with her, but he may be too late. His adamant refusal to marry just might have planted her firmly in the arms of another.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | B & N | ITUNES | KOBO

A look into the book via a trailer!




Excerpt :

Lord Farris’s dark eyes bored into hers before he stepped predatorily closer to her. He gazed down at her with his dark, smoldering eyes and said, “You do not truly believe that. Judging by your dilated pupils and the blush on your skin, you find me incredibly attractive.”

Laura scoffed and backed up a step. She needed room to breathe. “You would like that, wouldn’t you?” She gulped nervously as his eyes narrowed, and he took a step closer to her. Naturally, she continued to reverse her step until her back hit the bookcase.

He smiled as he slowly removed the glass of water from her hand and set it on the bookcase. He then brought his hands to either side of her and leaned in until their faces were mere inches apart. “Yes, I would like that very much. Unfortunately, I am too much of a gentleman to act on our mutual attraction.”

As he spoke, Laura could not seem to take her eyes away from his full lips, at least until his words sank in. Her eyes regained their focus as she realized he was standing much too near. This was precisely why she preferred normal gentlemen. They did not act strangely.

“Are you sure you are a gentleman?” Laura asked derisively. She immediately regretted her impulsive retort. He was just too near to her for her mind to perform rationally, otherwise she was sure she would have behaved herself.

One eyebrow lifted in question as he grinned wickedly. “Are you asking me not to conduct myself as a gentleman?”

His dark smile and wicked words made Laura pause as she stared at his lips, so near to her own. Her stomach was in knots, and she did not know if she should slap him or kiss him. She had never been kissed, but right now, she wanted his lips on hers more than anything. In Laura’s heart of hearts, she wished, just a little bit, that he would not behave as a gentleman. She could not form words, however, and only managed to shake her head slightly as common sense prevailed.

“In that case, my dear, I suggest you run along.” His feet moved silently as he stepped away from her, but Laura could not budge until he growled, “Go, or we both shall regret what happens.”

Her feet grew wings as she flew out the door and down the dark hallway. As she rounded a corner, she realized she had left her water on the bookshelf, although her bread and book were still clutched in her other hand. No matter how strong her thirst, she would never return downstairs now. Not when he was there.

My Musings :

I have to say that I almost passed this book over. The book cover wasn't anything special but what caught my attention and made me give the book a try was the blurb. The story plot sounded the usual plain Jane kind of situation but for people who know me, know that I love Regency and Plain Jane romances so I had to read this book. I was eager to know how it is all resolved.

I am happy that I took the chance. I found an author who is new to me and got to know her writing. This was an enjoyable but a slow read. The story was predictable at times. What made me continue when it slowed in pace was the author's writing. It was easy to read with the dialogue perfectly complementing the story line. Whether it was the annoying Eleanor's simpering or the flirting between Laura and Farris,the prose was fun to read adding to the dimensional quality of the characters.

As for the characters themselves, my favourite was Farris surprisingly. I felt he was sweet inspite of his rakish airs. He was perfect for Laura. He was the best foil for her character. He was patient with her even when I got kind of exasperated with her. The only part I didn't like was his distancing himself from Laura. I could have kicked him for it! Laura was a proper miss but her sparky nature was revealed during her interactions with Farris which I loved to read.

There weren't that many side characters to get lost in but Eleanor added the necessary noise so that the protagonists' lives didn't become monotonous. Inspite of her negative role, I kind of liked her for her tenacity but hated her for her almost evil nature.

The romance started almost at the beginning of the tale and didn't relent till the end. It was sweet and not too hot. The sparks did fly between Laura and Farris in some scenes which kept the romantic in me pleased. But what made me frown while reading was the slow pace in certain places. It felt a drag at those places but then it would get back to normal speed. All in all it was a pleasant read with almost no twists. If you like to read sweet regency romances with a twist or two for a few hours, then I would point you towards this book.

I received a review copy for an honest opinion. This in no way impacts my thoughts on the book. What I have written is my reaction to the story and it is not influenced by anyone.

My rating : 3.5/5

My one line review : A light sweet uncomplicated romance to while away a few hours.

My reread factor : 3/5


Meet the Author :

Naomi Boom is an author with a newly-discovered love for writing. Her inspiration struck when she was searching for the perfect historical romance novel to read. Nothing sounded appealing, so she decided to write her own. That one novel has morphed into a series, and hopefully many, many more.

She currently resides in Kansas with her family but has her eyes planted on an acreage in eastern South Dakota. Once her husband retires from the United States Army, they will return to her home state where she will continue to pursue her passion.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

And don't forget to enter into the giveaway generously hosted by Naomi Boom!

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Challenges I am taking part in 2017 - Part II

In continuation of the previous post, Challenges I am taking part in 2017, I am adding few more challenges to my list. I don't know if I might add more in the future but for now, I am taking part in 5, correction, 6 reading challenges. I almost forgot the Goodreads one. I am so used to doing it by default.

Goodreads Challenge

This year I have opted to read 100 books again. I have high hopes of exceeding this target easily what with the books I have bought so far, the challenges I am taking part in additionally, the books for blog tours, Netgalley copies, previous review request copies and finally Kindle Unlimited. This one is the easiest among the bunch!

POPSUGAR Reading Challenge 

This is a different kind of challenge for me. Usually the challenges I have taken part in give a target and leave it. But this one gives a list of "hints" for reading selection. I believe I will have too much fun with this one! I even join the Goodreads group so I can keep track and discuss and ask help in finding related books. You can read more about it here! The total number if 40 + 12 in Advance section. I believe I can do the entire 52 with ease. Keep your toes crossed!

Read My Own Damn Books!

Now this is one challenge I have to do every year because otherwise I won't read all the books I buy! Lol, there are so many books on my kindle still pending for reading time. I hope to atleast make a small dent in my Kindle pile starting this year. There is no set target for this challenge. So whatever I can read, I will be happy with it. It is hosted by Estelle's Revenge

HT Brunch Book Challenge

If I had known about this challenge earlier, I would joined in eyes closed. I recently came across this and I want to try it out this year. The target is 36 books with 6 of them centered on Indian books/authors. So I think I can easily do this one too. See I almost choosing the easier ones since this is my first year. I don't want to overwhelm myself at any stage. I have to remember to tweet when doing this challenge. *Makes a mental note*

So these are the additional challenges I have picked. Wish me luck and fun!

Flo

Book Blitz - God and His Girlfriend by Priyank

Name of the book: God & His Girlfriend
Author: Priyank

Read some reviews:

1. Bani Jain
2. Alisha Patel 
3. Kapil Awasthi 

The Story:

Have you ever met a pretty girl in a suspicious condition with blood stained hands lying in a hotel room where you are staying in? 

Can a love story see its acceptance in the Indian society when the boy is from slums and the girl is born in a rich family? 

How many of you have met those girls who were molested by their known ones when they had not even crossed the age of 14? Isn’t forced and unwilling sex after marriage similar to a rape? 

Whether the prayers offered in love strong enough to bring back someone’s lost beloved from PoK? 

How many of you know a person whose deeds are completely ideal, something which only a God can do? 

Whether religion, caste or community should really be a parameter in deciding the hierarchy and dominance of people living in this world? 

God and his girl-friend is a mercurial story about two youngsters, from entirely different backgrounds who strive hard against their comfort to live with their passion. A boy from the slums and a girl from a rich lavishing family set out on an embarking journey to touch the moon. This takes them through many tests, eventually tying them up in love, followed by an unforgettable service to the nation as true stalwart patriots.

You can buy the book @

amazon.in

About The Author 

‘The HINDU’ calls Priyank’s books, which has stories inspired from real life to be perfect in portraying the power of love.

Bollywood film maker Imtiyaz Ali conveyed his words to Priyank at a literary event in Delhi that he could see Priyank emerging out as a potential story writer from his city Jamshedpur.

Priyank is an author, a start up lover cum aspiring entrepreneur, a story teller and a motivational speaker. He is a gold medal winner in creative writing at the National level. He was named as the Best Debut Author of 2014 by Aagman Literary Organization, a Delhi based literary and cultural house for his novel ” I am dead but my heart beats. ”

He completed his Engineering from BIT Sindri, Dhanbad in 2015. He has delivered story telling sessions and motivational talks across many organizations in a short span of one and half year. He is the founder of Embellish India, a start-up he kicked off while in college. Currently, he works for a Delhi based funded start up after resigning from his first MNC job at TCS.

Born in Amethi (Uttar Pradesh) on 29th October, in a Maithil Brahmin family and brought up in Ghatsila (a small town near Steel city Jamshedpur in Jharkhand), Priyank’s dream is to bring changes in the country and make it a better place to live in. Writing was never his passion nor his goal. It happened to him by chance, by destiny, in an attempt to fulfill someone’s dream. He loves cricket, travelling, sleeping and trying out new delicacies.

Stalk him @
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Book Blast - Friends ForNever by Melissa Baldwin

   

Friends ForNever by Melissa Baldwin

 Erin Taylor is a hard-working journalist with a serious TV addiction and lack of a social life. She's focused on her career and determined to leave her tiny cubicle behind for a fabulous corner office! But when a new co-worker, a friendship drama, and a hot workplace crush collide, Erin finds it harder and harder to focus. Especially when that crush on the oh-so-yummy Aiden Thomas starts to materialize into what feels like a magical relationship. Erin's life seems to finally be heading in the right direction...until suddenly friends aren't such great friends after all, her magical relationship hits a bumpy road, and her career could be derailed by it all. Erin learns a lesson the hard way: Sometimes people aren't who they seem to be. With her happiness on the line, can Erin rise above her disappointments and create the life she's always dreamed of or will she be stuck being Friends ForNever?

 

  Praise for the Book

 Friends ForNever is a cleverly written book that will keep you wanting for more until the very end! I highly recommend this book!

 Friends for Never is like listening to your best friend tell you about her day at work! And anyone who has worked in an office will totally relate to this book. I was absolutely sucked in. The love story was great!

 It was well paced and funny!
 The author is really good.

 An intriguing look at the demands of family and friendship when personal goals are at risk.
A novel of back stabbing emotions.

 

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Kobo

Author Melissa Baldwin

 Melissa graduated from the University of Central Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications; she has always had a love for writing. An avid journal keeper, she took her creativity to the next level by fulfilling her dream with her debut novel, An Event to Remember . . . Or Forget. Since then, she has written and published four more novels, Wedding Haters, See You Soon Broadway, Not Quite Sheer Happiness and Friends ForNever.

 Melissa resides in Orlando, Florida, with her husband and young daughter. When she isn't writing, this multi-tasking master organizer is busy being a mother, wife, chauffeur, PTA President, and Fitness Trainer.

 When she has free time, she enjoys traveling, running, fitness, and taking a Disney Cruise every now and then.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Pinterest

Blast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

 Ends 1/26/17

 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Blog Tour / Book Musings - The Evil Twin by P.G.Van

THE EVIL TWIN?

by

P.G. Van

Blurb

Vinnie lost her parents when she was ten and lives in San Francisco with her aunt and her teenage cousin. She never expected a simple act of kindness would be life altering. Reyan comes into her life threatening to shake up her focus and challenges her resolve. He is everything Vinnie wants in a man and he shows up just when she thought she had everything she needed to stay focused on her life and her goals. 

Will he crack her titanium tough exterior and get to her heart? Will she let him into her life especially with what she has been through since she was ten? Will she trust Reyan to help her recover from her emotional wounds? 

Will she get to the bottom of why people think they have seen her at places that she has never been to before. Does she have a doppleganger or a twin? 

Follow Vinnie's and Reyan's love story as she learns the true meaning of love, trust and family.

Grab the book @

Amazon India | Amazon USA

My Musings :

I had seen her books around and I was curious about her writing. So when I got a chance to try it out, I took the opportunity. In hindsight, I am half interested in further reading her books and half reluctant to continue. The reason for it is that though I loved her book, it was nearly full erotica. I should have had an idea from the book cover but I have learnt not to judge from the outer part.

As I said, I was new to her and I didn't know what to expect. The starting of the book was perfectly pitched to grab the interest of a reader. I instantly fell for the book with the starting chapter. The introduction of Vinnie and Reyan was to the point and attention grabbing. It was the perfect hook to get my attention and the potential mystery introduced later on was the line which made me sink fully into the tale.

After the exciting start, the mid portion of the story felt a bit stilted because of the monotonous passionate scenes between the protagonists. After a while, it felt kind of repetitive. Only good point is that it didn't hinder or destroy the story-line. It enhanced it because of the characters' interactions in the sensual scenes. The mystery of the doppelganger had me hopping to find out the truth. The unveiling was given the right touch of sentimentality and it had my emotions fully engaged. 

The protagonists were well developed, as in not at once but as the story progressed, different aspects of their characters were revealed slowly which had my total attention. Vinnie comes across as a tough cookie who has a soft center. She is very relatable and witty. I loved the sistership between Vinnie and Annie. It had me longing for a soul sister which speaks strongly about the effect of the author's writing. Reyan was a surprise to me. I was expecting the usual rich snob but he was down to earth and of course, arrogant but it went well with his character. I didn't expect him to be that dominant. I loved his relationship with the supporting characters. He seemed to connect better with them compared to Vinnie.

The supporting cast of characters were not that memorable except for Annie. But they all added their little bit to further the story and the protagonists. The passion between Vinnie and Reyan was very sizzling and the pages were literally on fire. I felt that it could have been toned down a bit. 

This was a very fast read. I read this in a few hours and it did leave me wanting to read more about the future of Vinnie and Reyan. The ending that is the epilogue could have been expanded a bit more. The overall story was at times sad, happy, fun, mysterious and touching. I would totally read the author's other works except for the erotic scenes. And I would recommend this to readers who love their romance sizzling and emotion tangling.

My rating : 4/5

My one line review : A sizzling romance with a pinch of mystery and lots of emotions.

My reread factor : 3/5

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About the author

P.G. Van

P.G. Van lives in San Francisco and she published her first novel, Destiny Decides… in October 2015 and cannot stop writing. She loves to spend time with family and is a strong believer of retail therapy (mostly shops for boots and purses!!). She enjoys giving her readers an escape to the world of love and romance.

You can stalk her @

       

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