Those Texas Nights by Delores Fossen (3.5 stars)

About Those Texas Nights

Series: A Wrangler’s Creek Novel (Book 1)
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages Publisher: HQN Books (December 27, 2016)

The Granger siblings thought they’d left their ranching days behind, until fate sends them home to Wrangler’s Creek, Texas—and into the passionate arms of those they’d least expect… 

It’s some run of bad luck when Sophie Granger loses her business and gets left at the altar all in one day. Desperate to not appear jilted, Sophie begs Clay McKinnon, Wrangler’s Creek’s smoking-hot police chief, to pretend they’re having an affair. But Clay refuses, leaving Sophie to retreat to the family ranch to lick her wounds.

Hoping to leave his disreputable past behind, Clay moved to Wrangler’s Creek for a fresh start. But that looks unlikely when Sophie’s ex-fiancé shows up married to Clay’s impulsive kid sister. Overcome, Sophie resuggests the affair—but this time for real. Clay is hesitant. City-girl Sophie isn’t usually his type. But he can’t deny the desire she elicits—or his yearning to have her plant her cowboy roots for good.

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Review

Runaway bride. It's basically how this story starts, but she's running away from an insensitive groom who changes his mind at the last minute. Then, she runs to Clay, hoping he'll help her save face. Ultimately, she moves forward on her own, but she keeps getting drawn back to Clay.

Through a series of crazy events, their lives become more and more intertwined, and their attraction builds.

While the heat between Clay and Sophie was palpable, and I was rooting for them to get together, I did not like how they dealt with everything else in their lives, especially other family members and their meddling. If the story could've focused more exclusively on the couple, I would have been more invested.

If you enjoy reading a hot couple, give Those Texas Nights a chance.

Rating: 3.5 stars

About Delores Fossen 

USA Today bestselling author, Delores Fossen, has sold over 70 novels with millions of copies of her books in print worldwide. 

She’s received the Booksellers’ Best Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award and was a finalist for the prestigious Rita ®. In addition, she’s had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines. 

Connect with Delores 
Website | Facebook | Twitter

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Those Texas Nights blog tour page.

Love Literary Style by Karen Gillespie (4.5 stars)

About Love Literary Style

Paperback: 280 pages
Henery Press

They say opposites attract, and what could be more opposite than a stuffy literary writer falling in love with a self-published romance writer?

Meet novelist Aaron Mite. He lives in a flea-infested rented alcove, and his girlfriend Emma, a combative bookstore owner, has just dumped him. He meets Laurie Lee at a writers’ colony and mistakenly believes her to be a renowned writer of important fiction. When he discovers she’s a self-published romance author, he’s already fallen in love with her.

Aaron thinks genre fiction is an affront to the fiction-writing craft. He likes to quotes the essayist, Arthur Krystal who claims literary fiction “melts the frozen sea inside of us.” Ironically Aaron doesn’t seem to realize that, despite his lofty literary aspirations, he’s emotionally frozen, due, in part, to a childhood tragedy. The vivacious Laurie, lover of flamingo-patterned attire and all things hot pink, is the one person who might be capable of melting him.

Their relationship is initially made in literary heaven but when Aaron loses his contract with a prestigious press, and Laurie’s novel is optioned by a major film studio, the differences in their literary sensibilities and temperaments drive them apart.

In a clumsy attempt to win Laurie back, Aaron employs the tropes of romance novels. Too late. She’s already taken up with Ross, a prolific author of Nicholas Sparks-like love stories. Initially Laurie is more comfortable with the slick and superficial Ross, but circumstances force her to go deeper with her writing and confront a painful past. Maybe Aaron and Laurie have more in common than they imagined.

In the tradition of the Rosie Project, Love Literary Style is a sparkling romantic comedy which pokes fun at the divide between so-called low and high brow fiction.

“Witty and smart, entertaining and lyrical, in Love Literary Style author Karin Gillespie explores all facets of love and language through her evocative characters and charmingly delicious plot. Aaron and Laurie’s story is the intellectual’s romantic comedy, an uproariously winning tale that is sure to delight a wide range of readers, but particularly those who desire a book with heart.” —Laura Spinella, bestselling author of Ghost Gifts, #1 Kindle Bestseller 

READ an excerpt at Karin’s website, HERE.

Purchase Links 

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Review

Indie romance author meets literary snob. A relationship that doesn't make sense on papyrus (okay, you'll appreciate this reference once you read the book), yet they are drawn to each other. Can two such opposing forces come together to write their own love story?

Total honesty here... a few pages in, I convinced myself I wasn't going to like this book, its concept, or the main character, Aaron. But sometimes I'm just wrong, and that's why I never give up that quickly. It didn't take long before he grew on me (and Laura I liked from the get-go), and I wanted these characters to rub off on each other. 

Through charming scenes and slowly revealed internal struggles, I slipped further and further into their world, leaving behind my preconceived notions. Then, before I knew it, I loved not only the main romance, but also the unexpected emotional relationships outside of just Laura and Aaron. 

What started as a predictable romance turned into something unexpected--a deeper and more engrossing story about love and acceptance. I highly recommend.

Rating: 4.5 stars

About Karin Gillespie 

Karin Gillespie is the author of the national bestselling Bottom Dollar Girls series, 2016 Georgia Author of the Year, Co-author for Jill Connor Browne’s novel Sweet Potato Queen’s First Big Ass Novel. Her latest novel Love Literary Style was inspired by a New York Times article called “Masters in Chick Lit” that went viral and was shared by literary luminaries like Elizabeth Gilbert and Anne Rice. 

She’s written for the Washington Postand Writer Magazine and is book columnist and humor columnist for the Augusta Chronicle and Augusta Magazine respectively. She received a Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2016. 

Connect with Karin 
Website | Facebook | Twitter

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Love Literary Style blog tour page.

Blame It On the Cowboy by Delores Fossen (4 stars)

About Blame It On the Cowboy

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (September 27, 2016)

Every cowboy has a wild side—all it takes is the right woman to unleash it…

All of Logan McCord’s carefully laid plans erupt the day he walks in on his would-be fiancée getting…well, not so carefully laid. Tonight, just once, Logan is acting on instinct. And that instinct is telling him to say “Happy to oblige” to the cute stranger looking for a no-strings fling with a Texas cowboy.

When chef Reese Stephens made her bucket list, she mistakenly thought she had weeks to live. Not that she regrets her one-night-stand with the gorgeous rancher. But she does regret leaving an heirloom watch as a parting gift. Tracking Logan down is easy. Walking away again is another matter. Because Reese’s crazy past and Logan’s battered heart are no match for the kind of chemistry that could turn one night into the start of a passionate lifetime.

Purchase Links

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Review

No reason to reiterate the summary above. Instead, I'll jump right into what I liked. To start... Kudos to the way these two characters met. I found it much more appealing than the look-across-the-room-and-fall-in-love go-to of far too many romance novels.

I also appreciated that every time I thought I knew what would happen next, the story took a turn. So refreshing to not see everything coming in a too-fast relationship. And extra points for the humor I wasn't expecting.

If you enjoy a hot romance that defies standard romance storytelling, then take a chance on this one. I think you'll find it refreshing without forgoing any of the heat and romance.

Rating: 4 stars

About Delores Fossen

USA Today bestselling author, Delores Fossen, has sold over 70 novels with millions of copies of her books in print worldwide. She’s received the Booksellers’ Best Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award and was a finalist for the prestigious Rita ®.

In addition, she’s had nearly a hundred short stories and articles published in national magazines.

Connect with Delores Website | Facebook | Twitter
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Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Blame It On the Cowboy blog tour page.

Honor Bound by BJ Daniels (3.5 stars)

About Honor Bound

Mass Market Paperback 384 pagesPublisher: HQN Books (October 18, 2016)

Protecting her life will mean betraying her trust

Ainsley Hamilton has always been the responsible one of the family. As the oldest daughter of presidential candidate Buckmaster Hamilton, she’s also a potential target. For months she’s sensed someone following her. When an expedition to scout locations for a commercial takes a terrifying turn, she’s rescued by a natural-born cowboy who tempts the good girl to finally let loose.

Sawyer Nash knows just how reckless it is to fall for someone he’s gone undercover to protect. Yet masquerading as an extra on set, he starts to see beneath Ainsley’s controlled facade. And with the election—and a killer—drawing closer, Sawyer stands to lose not just his job and his life but the woman for whom he’d gladly risk both.

Purchase Links

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Review

Ainsley Hamilton has been living life looking over her shoulder, sensing someone is following her. Sawyer Nash is recuperating from an injury when he's asked to look out for her. That her father is a presidential candidate only ups the ante for keeping her safe.

When lives are on the line, who we really are comes to the forefront.

Honor Bound is part thriller, part political commentary, part romance, and part suspense. It's a few too many parts, in my humble opinion. Just as I was getting wrapped up in a growing attraction between Ainsley and Sawyer, the focus would switch to a thriller about the past and politics. 

While I was interested in all the stories, I found transitioning between them sometimes difficult. But, honestly, my reaction could be as simple as being swept away in a story and then needing to reboot to another, equally intriguing plot line. 

Honor Bound is a roller coaster ride of intrigue, romance, and action. Even though it might feel like you are getting on and off different rides, the entertainment never stops. 

Rating: 3.5 stars

About B. J. Daniels

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author B.J. Daniels lives in Montana with her husband, Parker, and three springer spaniels. When not writing, she quilts, boats and plays tennis.

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Honor Bound blog tour page.

Last Chance Rebel by Maisey Yates (4 stars)

About Last Chance Rebel

Series: Copper Ridge
Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (August 30, 2016)

The prodigal son of Copper Ridge, Oregon, has finally come home 

The man who ruined Rebecca Bear’s life just strolled back into it with one heck of an offer. Years ago, Gage West’s recklessness left Rebecca scarred inside and out. Now he wants to make amends by gifting her the building that houses her souvenir store. Rebecca won’t take Gage’s charity, but she’s willing to make a deal with the sexy, reclusive cowboy. Yet keeping her enemy close is growing dangerously appealing…

He’s the wild West brother, the bad seed of Copper Ridge. That’s why Gage needs the absolution Rebecca offers. He just didn’t expect to need her. After years of regretting his past, he knows where his future lies—with this strong, irresistible woman who could make a black sheep come home to stay…

Purchase Links

Amazon | Books a Million | Barnes & Noble

Review

Rebecca Bear has lived her life in the shadows of the scars from a car accident and hoping she never had to see the man responsible ever again. But then he waltzes back into town, and instead of avoiding her, he seems intent on lessening his guilt.

Two people in need of healing... can they embrace the future and heal the wounds of the past?

I love to read a good love story, but it has to start with caring about the characters and having a build up that makes sense--no instal-love for me. Rebecca and Gage have depth to them, which makes their growing feelings more intriguing. Love isn't easy, and it's definitely not for the two of them, but two damaged people can work through the pain when their hearts are in it. Their love story is reaffirmation of this kind of hope.

Their story stirred many emotions in me, something I wasn't expecting. To say I was pleasantly surprised by this is an understatement.

If you love a good romance with an added emotional attachment to the characters, then pick up a copy of Last Chance Rebel. And there's plenty of steamy scenes, too... just saying.

Rating: 4 stars

About Maisey Yates

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Maisey Yates lives in rural Oregon with her three children and her husband, whose chiseled jaw and arresting features continue to make her swoon. She feels the epic trek she takes several times a day from her office to her coffee maker is a true example of her pioneer spirit.

In 2009, at the age of twenty-three Maisey sold her first book. Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard. She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.


Connect with Maisey 
Website | Facebook | Twitter

Thanks to TLC for my review copy.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own. 

Please visit other stops on the Last Chance Rebel blog tour page.

Being Me by Tricia Copeland (5 stars)

Title: Being Me

Series: Being Me Volume 4 

Author: Tricia Copeland

Genre: Clean New Adult

Release Date: September 20, 2016

“The loneliest moment in someone’s life is when they are watching their whole world fall apart, and all they can do is stare blankly.”-The Great Gatsby

In attempt to manage her rage and shame after a violent assault, Amanda loses touch with reality. Her spiraling physical state forces her to act or die. To face her demons, she must revisit the emotions she ran from in the first place. Still unsure of what life she wants, but determined to pick up the pieces, she seeks out the right path. Can she mend broken bonds with her friends and family? 

Will her epic love survive? 

Find out in this roller coaster finale of the Being Me series.

REVIEW

Amanda is forced to face her demons after months of walking the edge of keeping it together. To do so, she has to accept some things she can't change and walk away from relationships she holds dear. When someone breaks, you really see the depth of their character. This is especially true for Amanda. And I love a strong female spirit, one that doesn't take the easy way out. And there's nothing easy about Amanda's breaking point and resulting backlash.

All the supporting characters--Doug, Zack, friends, parents, sisters--play a part in Amanda rebuilding her life, and not all of them in the way I thought they would. And as much as a reader might love a main character, it's all the supporting ones that make the whole experience truly memorable. But, in the end, it's about Amanda trusting her own instincts and standing strong without a crutch. 

And let's face it... the final book in the series is what you walk away with, the lasting impression. And Tricia Copeland makes everything worthwhile. Although Amanda's journey has been rocky, it's worth every moment in this satisfying conclusion.

If you are a reader who wants a whole series out before you start, take the time now to invest in Being Me. You'll appreciate the journey.

RATING: 5 Stars

Reviews for the rest of the series:

Think You Know Me (Book 3)

If I Could Fly (Book 2)

Is This Me? (Book 1)

Tricia Copeland grew up in Georgia and now lives in Colorado with her family and multiple four legged and finned friends. Her new adult Being Me series includes, Is This Me?, If I Could Fly, Thinking You Know Me, and the final installment, Being Me. Drops of Sunshine, released in July 2016, is her first young adult and paranormal book. If she’s not on a trail, you can find Tricia at www.triciacopeland.com or on your favorite social media.

 

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Note: I worked as Editor on this novel through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.