A Midwinter Ball (A Timeless Regency Romance Collection) {Review}

A Midwinter Ball (Timeless Regency Collection)
by Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, and Michele Paige Holmes

ebook, 300 pages

Published December 1st 2015 by Mirror Press 

 

 

Join three bestselling regency romance authors, Heidi Ashworth, Annette Lyon, and Michele Paige Holmes, for three new regency romance novellas in A MIDWINTER BALL.

MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING by Heidi Ashworth. Two years have passed since Lord Northrup declared his intentions for Miss Analisa Lloyd-Jones and forbade any other man to court her. Angry at the neglect, Analisa stopped reading his letters, never even breaking the seals. Tired of waiting, Analisa joins the house party at Mrs. Smith’s famous country home, determined to find a beau. When Lord Northrup unexpectedly joins the party, Analisa discovers she is no longer repulsed by the man who first laid claim to her hand.

SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM by Annette Lyon. Olivia Wallington is firmly established as a spinster, but that doesn’t stop her from dreaming about the perfect man. Ever since her father’s death, Olivia has been forced into seclusion by her mother. When her brother and his wife come for a visit, they discover the extent to which she lives under their mother’s thumb. With their help, Olivia sneaks out to attend a local ball, where she meets Edward Blakemoore. For a few divine moments, all of her dreams seem possible. But even someone like Mr. Blakemoore would be hard pressed to get past Mrs. Wallington’s fortress of protection—or past Olivia’s pride.

AN INVITATION TO DANCE by Michele Paige Holmes. Lady Ella has been isolated on her father’s estate since her mother’s death as her father travels the world. When Alex Darling arrives with a letter from her long-dead fiancé, and a demand that she travel to London for a series of engagements, Ella thinks her father instigated the strange demands and agrees. In London, she discovers the truth behind her fiancé’s death, and that new love might be possible in the arms of the most unexpected man.  

 

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My Review: 4 Stars

 

There's something so charming about a Regency era ball and in each f these stories, the heroine is not the belle of the ball, which makes each offering even more endearing. I love to visual the settings--the gowns, the anticipation, the dancing...how romantic. I found each book in the set to be satisfying, although they're each just about 100 pages long. Of course, I would be happy with more length, but each was perfect to pick up here and there.

MUCH ADO ABOUT DANCING gives us a feisty young lady and a cocky gentleman. Analisa has given herself up for spinsterhood, since Lord Northrup spoke for her years earlier but hasn't done a thing about securing the marriage. The growth that happens with each of them is very tender and well worthwhile.

My heart went out to Olivia in SWEETER THAN ANY DREAM. Her overbearing "mother" and aunt are cold, precise, and proper, yet she finds a way to let a little sunshine into her life. I found myself cheering her antics on, especially when she finally becomes brave.

AN INVITATION TO DANCE shows a flawed man and a strong woman. Ella is strong and determined and goes along with a ploy, thinking her father's hand is in it, but she's surprised by a few discoveries along the way. I love how she's the one who can help Alex with his struggles.

This whole collection is sweet and gentle, while still giving the reader some entertainment.

Content: mild romance

*I received a copy, which had no influence on my thoughts and opinions.*

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Romancing the Singer by Cami Checketts {Review}

Romancing the Singer (A Return to Snow Valley Romance) by Cami Checketts

Kindle Edition, 132 pages

Published November 3rd 2017 by Birch River Publishing 

 

 

Two superstars, two lonely hearts, and the storm that tears them apart.

 
Don't miss this Return to Snow Valley Romance by bestselling inspirational author, Cami Checketts.

Daisy Castleton hasn't been home since she won Singing with the Stars and a huge recording contract, but where else do you escape from the tabloid sharks when you discover you have throat cancer? Daisy wants nothing more than to disappear as she faces the fact that she may never sing again. Between family issues and an impossible to ignore attraction to her childhood hero, Daisy can't catch a break. After all, how do you stop yourself from falling in love with the perfect guy?

Jamison Hall came home to Snow Valley after a successful career in the European Basketball Association. When he literally runs Daisy off a hiking trail with his horse, he discovers a connection and love he'd never imagined. But Daisy is like a beautiful fairy: always out of reach and afraid even the best of men will burn her wings.

Can they survive a snow storm and the media storm, together?

 

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My Review: 4.5 Stars

 

As I was driving through Montana a few years ago, I desperately searched for a sign pointing me to Snow Valley. Yeah, I couldn't find one, but I could sure picture about where this small town would be. I've been in love with this place and it's citizens for awhile now and was soooo happy to return back for one more dose of heaven.

 

Daisy has made it big as a singer, but has a little health scare that could shatter her dreams--just as she's at the peak of her career. She is understandably upset and goes home to help her brother and his wife with their upcoming baby. Jamison is also a superstar--of the European basketball variety--and there couldn't be a more gentle giant than him. 

 

The romance seems a bit sudden, but given the history of these two characters, it's really not. I loved the sparks and the way they are unable to resist each other, no matter how hard they try. The swoon is strong with this one!

 

I know I can always count on Cami Checketts to deliver a fun and irresistible story and this one is a hit! My only complaint is that I wished it was longer because I wasn't ready to say goodbye yet.

 

Content: mild, swoony romance (kissing); mild religious elements

 

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Hothouse Flower by Taylor Dean {Book Blast + Giveaway}

BOOK THREE IN THE SOUND OF SILENCE SERIES IS NOW AVAILABLE!!!

Did you miss Book One, STONE SILENCE?

No worries. It's FREE for five days, Jan. 1-5!!!

Grab it on AMAZON

 

HOTHOUSE FLOWER

by

TAYLOR DEAN

 

   

Hothouse Flower by Taylor Dean 

I loved Jace Faraday with all my heart. I loved everything about him, from his huge smile to his fabulous laugh. Another man never caught my eye. It was always Jace and Shay, together forever. Until it wasn’t. He devastated me, he ruined me. I’ve never gotten over it. But, I’m a survivor. I’m not a precious flower that can only thrive if kept safe from the perils of the outside world. Except now Jace has returned home. He’s just across the street from me, so close I swear I can actually feel his presence. I can’t avoid him forever. At some point I have to face him. And when I do, I know sparks will fly. To redeem himself for his past actions, I need major remorse. I need a profuse apology and maybe even a little begging for forgiveness. I won’t settle for anything less. However, when the truth behind our break-up is revealed, I’m stunned. It leaves me reeling—and yearning for the six years that have been lost to us. The thing is, once the truth is known, there’s nothing to keep us apart. Absolutely nothing.  

Dear Reader: This book deals with a sensitive issue.   

The Sound of Silence Series is a three book series.

Book One: Stone Silence, Spencer’s Story 

Book Two: Jailbird, Mia’s Story 

Book Three: Hothouse Flower, Shay’s Story

Each book has a happy ending and there are no cliffhangers. They are not standalones and should be read in order.

Read an excerpt from HOTHOUSE FLOWER:

“I apologize if that embarrassed you. That’s what creepy ex-boyfriends are for though. If you look it up in the dictionary, you’ll find that I’m right.”

“That’s the exact definition?” I ask.

“In a nutshell. I believe it reads: A hideous creature made to embarrass and humiliate his former girlfriend during every single moment of her life. Warning: They should all be hunted down and killed.”

A half smile escapes. “That’s a bit harsh, don’t you think?”

“Maybe. I promise to try my best to not stand outside of your window in the middle of the night with a boom box over my head.”

This time he makes me laugh aloud. “Just out of curiosity, what would the song be?”

“Oh, you know, a rousing rendition of George Michael belting out Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go. After all, I’d have to wake you up before getting all romantic with my song choice.”

“So . . . what would the romantic song be?” I have to know.

“Don’t make me say it.”

“You brought it up. Don’t leave me hanging.”

“It would have to be . . . I Think I Love You by The Partridge Family. It’s an oldie, but a goodie. Not many know it, but it’s a gem of a song. It says everything that’s in my heart.”

It’s his ability to say silly things with a deadpan voice that makes him so funny. To me, at least. No one else ever laughs at his jokes quite like I do. I slap his arm playfully and Brit burrows deeper into his shoulder. “I’d go back to bed.”

“I’d resort to drastic measures then.”

“What drastic measures?”

“I’d have to pull out the Barry Manilow. He’s only to be used in rare moments and with extreme caution.”

      

Stone Silence by Taylor Dean  

Great big beautiful love. Does it really exist? Everyone tells me it does. They say, “Spencer Elliott, don’t worry, you’ll find it one day. You just have to find the right man and when you do, it will surprise the heck out of you.” I’m still waiting for that heck of a surprise to hit. It has proven to be elusive thus far. I’m pretty sure the entire world is lying about love and the joke is on me. I know I want a man in my heart and in my life. Unfortunately, most men immediately push my OFF button and I lose interest quickly. Feeling pressure to prove I’m trying to find my soulmate, I finally give in and agree to a date. Huge mistake. Afterward I find myself abandoned in the middle of nowhere, in desperate need of help. That’s when I meet Stony by chance. He’s a silent and unsmiling man who intrigues me with his ability to keep going after life has knocked him down. Suddenly the abstract notion of love becomes tangible and within my reach. Once I experience it, I wonder how I ever lived without it. That’s when I stay with Stony by choice. But when Stony’s hidden past and present-day reality collide, his silence is broken. And the truth about his life nearly brings me to my knees. I can’t compete with ghosts from the past. I refuse to fight for a man’s love. He either loves me or he doesn’t. It’s as simple and as complicated as that. My only hope is . . . he does. 

 

Catch Book Two, JAILBIRD.

   

Jailbird by Taylor Dean 

My hometown decided to rename me Jailbird. Every day I silently scream out, “My name is Mia Faraday!” My time in jail does not define me. I am so much more than one heated mistake. And yet, my slip-up weighs on me. There’s so much more to the story than anyone realizes. I must face Stony, my ex, and confess everything. I don’t want to. I’d rather have five teeth pulled. While I’m awake. Without anesthesia. But this is something I have to do, something I need to do. Not just for Stony. I need to do it for me. Especially for me. I can’t move forward with my life until I gain closure from the past. When I meet Grayson Elliott, I am easily pulled into his orbit and it’s exactly where I’d love to stay. He makes me laugh and not take life so seriously. He makes me want to live again. But I don’t love me right now, and that healing needs to come first. I’m not relationship-ready or marriage material. My mind is focused on redemption. I want it. I need it. Besides, when Grayson hears about my colorful past, I’m sure he’ll be gone before I have time to utter the word goodbye. After all, who could ever love a jailbird? 

   

Praise for JAILBIRD: 

Mia's story about forgiveness and redemption is packed with emotion and will leave you wanting more! -Jana, Amazon Review An adventure from start to finish, a wonderful sequel to Stone Silence. -atvtnv, Amazon Review Once I started reading, I just couldn't stop! It has been a LONG time since a book has kept me up WAY past my bedtime! -KJ's Book Nook 

 

Author Taylor Dean

Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense—you’ll find all sub-genres of clean romance in her line-up.

Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads * Newsletter

 

Blast Giveaway Details
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/21/18

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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New Year New Books (Free & 99 Cent Book Deals)

Start your new year off with a great new book!! 

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Giveaway Details 

$50 in Paypal Cash or a $50 Amazon.com eGift Card 

Ends 1/6/18 

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. 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. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the authors, bloggers, and publishers on the sponsor list. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.



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Stone Cold Sparks by Cami Checketts {Book Spotlight + Giveaway}

Find Stone Cold Sparks on Amazon, free for KU members. 

A stone cold firefighter, lifelong secrets, and the vivacious woman who won’t give up. 

Abi Newell is feisty, fun, and beautiful, and has date offers every night of the week, but she gave her heart away to Stone Ryland when they were teenagers and that was the stupidest decision of her life. Though Stone is the perfect fit for her—kind, patient, and steady—he’s also shut himself off to everyone, including her. She’s accomplished best-friend status with her dream man, but winning his heart is a quest she may never win. 

Stone has been deemed Stone Cold by his firefighting buddies for good reason—he has the remarkable ability to put his feelings on the shelf while dispassionately dealing with the situation at hand. Too bad Stone’s buddies don’t know the truth. A truth Stone will fight tooth and nail to keep hidden. Abi is his one weakness, but Stone can’t let anyone into his heart or his well-protected secrets will be discovered and run the risk of destroying not only Abi, but his deceased wife’s memory as well.  

Can Abi break through the ice surrounding Stone Cold’s heart, or will she be forced to give up on her lifelong love?

I love Cold Stone ice cream and thought it was the perfect tie-in to my Stone Cold hero. Enter below to win a $25 gift card. Happy reading and ice cream eating!

Hugs,

Cami

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