A royal romance adventure... Royally Matched by Kate O’Keeffe (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #royallymatched #romancebooks #royalromance #cleanreads @kateokeeffe4 @xpressotours

Welcome! Check out the excerpt and giveaway below...

Royally Matched

(Royally Kissed #2)

By Kate O’Keeffe

Contemporary Romance, Royal Romance

Paperback & eBook, 340 Pages

September 26, 2024

Summary

I’ve got 99 problems, and picking the wrong guy might be all of them.

I’ve always had my royal checklist: Attend the Husband Hunting Ball? Check. Find the perfect match for a princess like me? Check. Feel zero sparks with Mr. Right (aka Enzo Revera)? Sadly, double check.

But then I met Marco, Enzo’s charming and rugged brother. He’s everything I shouldn’t want, especially since I’ve planned my life to avoid the messiness of love.

When a twist of fate puts Marco at my side, I can’t deny our chemistry, even if he’s all wrong for a princess like me. Thrown together by royal duties and an ancient riddle, Marco and I embark on a crazy adventure that leads us to hidden clues.

As we unravel a secret that changes everything, I’m faced with a choice between duty and desire. Can I defy expectations and claim both the throne I’ve always wanted and my true love?

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Excerpt

Other Books in the Series

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About the Author

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Kate O'Keeffe writes exactly what she loves to read: laugh-out-loud romantic comedies with swoon-worthy heroes and gorgeous feel-good happily ever afters. She lives and loves in beautiful Hawke's Bay, New Zealand with her family. When she's not penning her latest story, Kate can be found hiking up hills (slowly), traveling to different countries, and eating chocolate. A lot of it.

Visit kateokeeffe dot com to sign up to her newsletter and you'll receive a FREE romcom.

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This is a book everyone should read... Habits of a Peacemaker by Steven T. Collis (Review) #mustread #newbooks #bookx #habitsofapeacemaker #selfhelp #5starread @ShadowMountn

This is a self-help book that is an absolute must-read! I'm so excited to share about it today. Read my review below...

Habits of a Peacemaker:

10 Habits to Change Our Potentially Toxic Conversations into Healthy Dialogues

By Steven T. Collis

Nonfiction, Self-Help, Leadership & Motivation

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 256 Pages

September 3, 2024 by Shadow Mountain

Summary

“In this time of sharp political divides and overwhelming feedback, Collis is a much-needed voice of reason and compromise.” –Booklist

Learn the practical skills that can help you build bridges, heal relationships, and engage in productive conversation about even the hardest topics.

Imagine turning what could be a contentious conversation with a family member, a friend, or a coworker into a fruitful exchange that enlightens everyone’s minds and inches both of you toward a solution. Steven T. Collis, one of the world’s leading experts on civil discourse, reveals ten practical habits that can help you navigate the potential minefields of hard topics and leave you and those you converse with feeling thoughtful and productive.

Most people have experienced the slippery slope of dialogue that descends into polarized argument. We yell at each other. We gaslight. We twist one another’s words and meanings. We embrace facts that support our conclusions and ignore those that don’t. Or we sit in silence, afraid to discuss anything of substance. If how you treat others matters to you, this book offers powerful new habits that can give you the confidence to engage in dialogue about hard topics while building and strengthening relationships.

Learn successful habits that will allow you to, among other things:

- Reframe conversations to make them more productive
- Engage in real learning by breaking free from technological manipulation
- Ask questions of others to understand their true motivations
- Recognize gaslighting and not allow it
- Know when and how to use humor
- Take time for long reflection
- Embrace the discomfort of non-closure
- Whether you’re motivated by a desire for more fruitful discussions about politics or simply bringing more peace to your home, Habits of a Peacemaker offers you the tools to engage in constructive and healthy dialogue.

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My Review

HABITS OF A PEACEMAKER is an excellent book for those who want to become better at discussing hard topics and differences of opinion in a calm and healthy way. Full of historical examples, factual information and the author's own experiences that lend examples of the habits the author is conveying. Easily read in one or multiple segments, which are nicely separated into habits and then sections within each habit. Highly recommended to self-help readers and those who are looking to be better peacemakers and make a positive difference!

This book is extremely applicable to today with a culture that believes if you don't agree or think the same, then you're an enemy. If everyone would apply even some of the habits the author shares the world would be much improved place as individuals, friends, co-workers, and friends could sit down and have positive, healthy and productive discussions about important issues. We need more people who are peacemakers and can listen, understand others, and seek to resolve problems together.

I loved so much about this book! It's written by a law professor whose job is to teach about the first amendment with lots of experience working with others with different backgrounds and opinions. The advice is presented in a factual, relatable way without judgment or accusation. As I tend to be analytical, the writing style of this book was perfect for me. The author also doesn't point fingers and shares some of his own vulnerabilities. No specific opinions or religious teachings are pushed, so if you're wanting something to tell you how to think about any given subject, this book will not do that. It will, however, help you analyze and assess how you absorb information, and how you interact with others who may not think the same as you do or who may have more or less knowledge than you do. It will also naturally lead to some self-assessment and inspiration for being a better peacemaker.

The author provides various object lessons in pieces from history and stories to exemplify certain principles. This made the habits he was sharing relatable and kept me engaged. The object lessons also made it easy to share different segments with my teenagers to help them think more about how they learn and interact with others. It also makes this book a good fit for those who learn best from stories and examples. The audiobook version is also excellent for those who prefer listening to podcasts and such versus reading this type of book.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This book was so fantastic that I've been telling everyone about it! Definitely a book to read, apply and re-read to help us all in being peacemakers in our interactions with others.

Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

STEVEN T. COLLIS is a storyteller at heart. He is also a law professor at the University of Texas School of Law and the faculty director of Texas’s Bech-Loughlin First Amendment Center and Law and Religion Clinic. Previously, he was the Olin-Darling Research Fellow at the Constitutional Law Center at Stanford Law School and chair of the Religious Institutions and First Amendment Practice Group at Holland & Hart LLP.

He is an engaging and sought-after speaker nationwide on religion and law. Steven received his MFA in creative writing from Virginia Commonwealth University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Michigan Law School.

He is the author of Deep Conviction: True Stories of Ordinary Americans Fighting for the Freedom to Live Their Beliefs. He and his wife have five children and reside in Texas.

You can find the author here.

Do you find yourself more and more pushed to the extreme on opinions or wanting to bridge the gap with others who think differently on issues than you do?

A new contemporary romance... Somewhere Along the Way by Anna Gomez (#Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #romancebooks @xpressotours

I'm sharing about this new romance today. Find out more and enter the giveaway below...

Somewhere Along the Way

By Anna Gomez

Contemporary Romance

eBook, 237 Pages

September 24, 2024

Summary

Charlotte “Charlie” Hastings never missed her mother. But when Charlie’s late father visits her in a dream and reveals the letters her mother had written to him over the years, she begins yearning for a connection she never desired to make. Reeling from a mix of emotions, Charlie embarks on a soul-searching cross-country journey to California to find the mother she thought she never needed.

Along the way, she stumbles upon Graham Mead, a mysterious stranger with a secret identity, who becomes her unexpected travel companion. Each pit stop reveals new truths from her mother’s letters, unveiling a poignant love story and the reasons behind her departure. From state to state, Charlie and Graham unravel their pasts, confront their fears, and discover a love that goes beyond their personal journeys.

But as they reach their destination, they must face the harsh reality of their separate lives: Charlie needs to find her mother, and Graham needs to rebuild his life. Pulled in different directions, can they find each other in the right place and at the right time, twice?

——

SOMEWHERE ALONG THE WAY is a must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of unexpected encounters and the healing power of love.

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About the Author

Anna Gomez is a hopeless romantic who writes about real life, flawed characters and the saving grace of unconditional love. Her experience of living and growing up in a foreign country plays a large part in her stories. Her full-time career and ability to travel extensively also add flair and individuality to the vividly written settings in her books. They transport the reader to faraway places and make them feel like they’ve been there before. Anna’s inspiration stems from the people she meets and the places that she’s seen. Her stories are realistic and honest, thought-provoking and impactful. Her love for poetry is evident in her writing style. Prior to writing this book, Anna wrote under the pen name Christine Brae, with six books which have won literary awards and ranked as bestsellers upon release.

Anna is Partner and Chief Financial Officer of one of the world's largers global advertising agencies. She lives in Indiana with her husband and sheepadoodle, Izzy.

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Read an excerpt from this hockey romance... The Parent Playbook by Elsie Wood (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #loveonthinice #theparentplaybook #bookx #newbooks #romcom #romancebooks #cleanreads #hockeyromance @XpressoTourss

I'm sharing another excerpt today, the third from this series. Read that and enter the giveaway below...

The Parent Playbook

(Love on Thin Ice)

By Elsie Wood

Contemporary Romance, Romcom, Sports

Paperback & eBook, 204 Pages

September 26, 2024

Summary

I don’t know when dad jokes and mismatched socks became my type, but that hockey dude skated into my life like a runaway puck… and I think I like it.

Angel:

I know I should be thankful that my charity was selected by the Ice Breakers hockey team. It’ll make a huge difference in children’s lives all over the state.

There’s only one problem:

I hate hockey dudes.

I have to remind myself of that fact when Scotty MacFarland with his groan-worthy dad jokes slips into my life like he’s always been there.

No matter how hard I push back on that perfectly formed chest, Scotty remains strong, giving me the space I need. I’m beginning to think I don’t want to have so much space anymore.

But by the time I figure that out, it just might be too late.

Scotty:

The only thing I love more than hockey is my daughter.

It was a no-brainer for me to give up the ice when I became a single dad, and I didn’t look back. But when the call came to coach the Ice Breakers, the opportunity was too good to pass up, and I thought my girl would thrive with a fresh start in Maple Falls.

Turns out, the leaves weren’t the only thing falling in Maple Falls.

Angel Davis swooped into my life and pieces I didn’t know were missing started to fall into place. A devoted single mom, director of a children’s charity, and all-around spark of sassiness, she and I find an easy rhythm, despite her throwing a boot at my face.

But Lily comes first. And if I have to leave behind a future with Angel before it’s started in order to do what’s right, I will.

Though it seems fate has other ideas.

The Parent Playbook is part of the Love on Thin Ice sweet small town hockey romcom series. It’s a single dad/single mom, second chance love story in this small town romance with all the sizzle and chemistry, but none of the spice.

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Excerpt

Before I know it, Scotty’s placing an empty water bottle atop his head, standing with a mock-serious expression, hands by his sides. “All right, Annie Oakley, let’s see what you’ve got.”

I hesitate for a split second—am I really about to throw my boot at this man? But the impish spark in his eyes is too much to resist. I slip off my boot, balance it in my hand, and toss it gently.

It spins through the air, perfectly knocking the bottle off without so much as grazing his hair.

Scotty applauds. “Nice shot! But was it luck or skill?”

“I think we’re about to find out.”

“Over here!” He runs to the other side of the barn and I’m a few strides behind. He snatches his safety goggles, balancing them on his head, but they’re no match for my aim. I knock them off with a satisfying thud.

“Over here!”

A feed bucket, an egg basket, and a grooming brush later, I’ve kept my perfect score.

“You’re amazing!” he shouts. “Wait, I know …” With a particularly devilish grin, Scotty puts on his cowboy hat. “This one’s for all the marbles, Angel.”

“You’re asking a lot of me here. That baby is hugging your head.”

“I have confidence in you.”

“That’s one of us anyway,” I mumble as I take aim, my heart pounding—not from the game, but from the way he looks at me, like I’m the only woman on earth. “Here goes nothing …”

The boot flies true, flicking the hat right off that handsome head.

“Yes!” he cries, and next thing I know, I’m heading for him.

As if drawn by a magnet, I stumble right into Scotty’s waiting arms. Our bodies crash together, his hands steadying me at my waist, and we laugh, my hands on his chest. We’re face to face, breaths mingling, the laughter filling the barn until it fades out and all that’s left is him and me.

His eyes search mine, and there’s so much affection, such tenderness, that something inside me melts on the spot.

Kiss me. Kiss me. Kiss me.

I bite my lip as my arms gently push on his chest.

What am I doing?

I have no idea. I can’t tell what I want. I think it’s him, that I want him more than I’ve wanted almost anything, but a force in me presses him back.

This is a silly crush. A silly crush on a super handsome, considerate, helpful, gentle, intelligent, muscular man.

He lets me go, and I don’t know if he just ruined it or saved us both, but he follows up by setting a box of screws on his head.

“How about this? One more for good luck, unless you’re scared of hitting something other than hats.”

The spell may be broken, but my heart still races. “It’s a small target, but I’ve been known to hit a gourd with an arrow from thirty yards at Maple Fest.”

“Prove it, cowgirl.”

Must calm these overwrought nerves. I wind up, ready for the shot …

“MOM!”

“I WASN’T DOING ANYTHING!” I shout as the boot flies a little too forcefully, my aim a little off.

And it smacks Scotty straight in the face.

Other Books in the Series

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About the Author

Elsie Woods is an author of giggly romantic comedy with a big dose of furry friends. While born in Canada, she abandoned cold winters for southern France with her golden retriever and unicycling French hubby. When not writing, she can be found sipping tiny coffees by the Mediterranean, hiking with her hubby and dog, or munching on the most delicious cheese in the world.

You can chat with Elsie on Facebook (www.facebook.com/elsiewoodsauthor) or watch her (and her dog) be silly on TikTok (www.tiktok.com/elsie_woods_romcom) . Don’t forget to try her free novella on her website: Faking Christmas Love at the Doggy Spa (www.elsiewoods.com)

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Can't Wait for... The Courting of Bristol Keats by Mary E. Pearson (Can't-Wait Wednesday) #CWW #WOW #bookx #newbooks

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and discuss the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released. Find out more here.

It's been a bit since I've read one of this author's books, but I loved her Remnant Chronicles and am looking forward to her new release. There's also an awesome special edition. It's my pick this week...

The Courting of Bristol Keats

By Mary E. Pearson

Romantic Fantasy, Folklore

Audiobook, Hardcover & eBook, 560 Pages

November 12, 2024 by Flatiron Books

Summary

Limited edition printing with stenciled edges

From New York Times bestselling author Mary E. Pearson comes a thrilling romantic fantasy full of dangerous fae, dark secrets, and addictive romance

After losing both their parents, Bristol Keats and her sisters struggle to stay afloat in their small, quiet town of Bowskeep. When Bristol begins to receive letters from an “aunt” she’s never heard of who promises she can help, she reluctantly agrees to meet―and discovers that everything she thought she knew about her family is a lie. Even her father might still be alive, not killed but kidnapped by terrifying creatures to a whole other realm―the one he is from.

Desperate to save her father and find the truth, Bristol journeys to a land of gods and fae and monsters. Pulled into a dangerous world of magic and intrigue, she makes a deadly bargain with the fae leader, Tyghan. But what she doesn't know is that he's the one who drove her parents to live a life on the run. And he is just as determined as she is to find her father―dead or alive.

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Will you be reading this one?

Read an excerpt from this new fantasy... Splintered Realms by L.A. Myles (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #fantasy #newadult #SplinteredRealms @xpressotours

Welcome! Read an excerpt from this new adult fantasy and enter the giveaway below...

Splintered Realms

(Doorways, #1)

By L.A. Myles

New Adult Fantasy

Paperback & eBook, 287 Pages

July 20, 2024

Summary

College is everything art student Taylen dreamed it would be. But her first trip home doesn’t end with her mom’s homemade brownies. Instead, she’s hurled into a strange medieval land where a woman without family has no say. Desperate to get back to her world, she’ll have to find others she can trust if she hopes to find a way home.

But trust isn’t easy to find. Surrounded by accusations of espionage, kidnapping, murder, and refusing to become chattel, Taylen discovers she has the unique ability to see the doorways between realms. Leaving the Realm of Men behind, she enters the land of the fae-like Ays Shee. They can get her home, but first she must help them solve the mystery of what’s dissolving the barrier between realms before it rips the world apart, and Taylen with it.

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Excerpt

A curve in the road revealed hills covered with vineyards. The vines were mid-transformation, changing from their summer green to fall’s stunning array of deep golds and burnt reds.

“Now I’m in the vineyards.” Taylen sighed.

The road opened out, the trees moving away from the asphalt and stench of exhaust to perch atop hills or slip down their sides. They hovered in sparse clusters among the vineyards, distant reflections of the road-scape she’d just left.

“If you keep your pace,” Mom said, her voice warm with delight, “you’ll arrive the same time the brownies are coming out of the oven.”

“You made brownies?”

“Of course.” Mom laughed. “It’s been two months. You must be going through brownie withdrawal by now.”

“How’d you guess?” Taylen grinned.

The sun sank toward the hills on her left, coloring the few clouds in the sky with luminescent oranges and reds. Sunsets, like sunrises, were the best parts of the day. They were magical, a time in flux in which one thing merged into the next.

She glanced down to switch on her headlights. The glint of sunlight off the chrome trim running along the edge of her windshield caught her eye.

“Well—” The line in her ears went dead.

“Mom?” Her gaze flicked back up. The lights clicked on first in the dash, then on the tree ahead of her.

Tree!

She swerved right. More trees blocked her path. She flung the steering wheel left to avoid another, veering between tree after tree while careening through a brightly lit forest. Bushes broke and cracked under and against her car, creating a cacophony of breaking wood and screeching metal. The car bounced and jarred her to either side, the seatbelt catching her with bruising force.

Another tree appeared in her path, this one fallen over. She cursed and stomped on the brakes. The car spun left. A jarring thump and a loud bang signaled a back tire blowing out. A branch slammed into her windshield, cracking it.

She screamed as another branch shattered her passenger window when the car lurched sideways. A clearing in the trees beckoned ahead of her, then it was behind her, and a sickening weightlessness lifted her off the seat.

She had a moment to take in the view. A forest stretched out in all directions from around a large pear-shaped lake, its surface a dark reflective gray sheet. Gravity reclaimed her and her car, and she plunged toward the water below. Her shriek ripped through the air.

About the Author

L.A. is a fantasy fiction author. She scribes epic fantasies filled with adventure, mythical creatures, struggle, and the magic that can come from strong friendships, especially between females. Characters going through proverbial hell as they come into their personal power resonate the most with her and are what she writes.

For her, stories always arrive first as a single clear snapshot. Usually, the image is of a pivotal moment. After that, it’s like a portal has opened and L.A. is the conduit the story flows through, as opposed to the conductor of the tale. It often makes writing as exciting as reading.

After decades of migrating from one US coast to another and then abroad, L.A. has settled in the Pacific Northwest, U.S.A. with a couple of high-powered kids, a husband, two cats, chickens, and a flock of wild turkeys that have decided to make the family’s property theirs.

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A sweet, humorous story... Stand in for Love by Michele Ashman Bell (Review) #newbooks #bookx #romancebooks #romcom #cleanreads

Stand in for Love

By Michele Ashman Bell

Contemporary Romance, Romcom, Clean & Wholesome

Paperback & eBook, 274 Pages

August 15, 2024

Summary

An unexpected wedding disaster leads to an unexpected love.

Serafina Russo’s best friend Britt is getting married in two weeks. But an unexpected death in the family takes the engaged couple out of the country to attend the funeral.

That leaves Sera, the timid maid-of-honor, and Axel Rodrigues, best man, famous baseball star, and NYC’s most eligible bachelor, to take care of last-minute wedding details and hopefully prevent their best friends’ wedding from becoming a disaster. While dealing with unexpected cancellations and catastrophes Sera discovers that Axel is not just famous and incredibly good-looking, he is also kind, helpful, and funny. Sera and Alex discover that when opposites attract, sparks fly, love ignites, and something wonderful happens.

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My Review

STAND IN FOR LOVE is a sweet, humorous story about a maid of honor and best man working together to get their best friends' wedding finalized. The hero is a former pro baseball player, a gentleman and definitely swoon-worthy. The heroine is a down-to-earth elementary school teacher with a good heart and her own gorgeous looks. They're thrown together which results in some comedy, friendship and romance. 

I liked both of these characters from the start. Sera is this sweet, somewhat accident prone, woman who has had her heart broken before and has been warned off of Axel. She got enrolled by her friend in a dating app and is running through a couple of potential dates. Axel is a charming, wealthy, athletic man who lost his fiancé in an accident and is currently dating a supermodel. They've never met prior to this story and then they do and they're both surprised by how well they get on and the friendship that forms. I liked that they spend quite a bit of time together, which lends to them really getting to know each other. They become fairly involved in each other's lives over a short period of time. The romance slowly builds, and I appreciated that it wasn't insta-love, even though there definitely is instant attraction. There are a few funny parts as well. I liked the family dynamic as well as Sera's friend and roommate. The ending is very sweet and utterly romantic. 

I also had some issues with this book. I had a really tough time getting into this book. I would say about at thirty to forty percent in I finally was engaged and loved what was happening, but then my interest waned again further on - maybe because things didn't work for me and that pulled me back out of the story. Overall dialogue was very stilted. There were a bunch of different themes or moments that felt like they were thrown in but didn't necessarily fit with the story. The way that all the plans didn't work out was too overused and overdone. There were so many things unpaid or contracted for the wedding that supposedly the couple didn't even check out prior to hiring their services. It all felt pretty far-fetched. I didn't like one part because it felt very forward and like someone was cheating on their significant other. Then there is a huge jump in the relationship at the end that could have been worked through a lot better.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was a cute read and likable characters and sweet romance. For me, it needed more development and didn't work in parts. However, readers of the genre may enjoy this one.

Content: Clean
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

What's the last book you read where you thought you wouldn't like it but then did? Do you enjoy sport romances?

Read an excerpt from this historical mystery... In the Midst of Shadows by Nicola Italia (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #newbooks #bookx #mystery #histfic #historicalfiction @xpressotours

I'm sharing an excerpt from this historical mystery today. Read that and enter the giveaway below...

In the Midst of Shadows

By Nicola Italia

Adult Historical Mystery

Audiobook, Paperback & eBook, 307 Pages

November 20, 2021

Summary

In the Victorian era, a cheap and popular form of entertainment has entranced the population often known by the name; penny dreadful. Costing a penny, readers purchased the stories and entered the fantastic world of superhuman men and damsels in distress.

The stories have been popular for over fifty years and Lavinia Howard is a young woman who dreams of being such a writer. Having recently lost her father, she turns to a family friend who puts her in touch with Jasper Courtenay, owner of Courtenay Publishing.

Writing under the pen name G. R. Howard, Lavinia creates a character who becomes a huge success as her penny dreadful stories are the most popular ever printed. Her character is brash and obnoxious and has no respect for authority as he solves London murders and the working classes adore him!

But strange things begin to happen as the stories Lavinia writes start to come true. Two very similar deaths mirror those she writes about, and Detective Chief Inspector Harrison Bryce is assigned to investigate. Inspector Bryce soon discovers that Lavinia has become so popular that she has also made enemies along with her legion of fans.

He realizes that everyone surrounding Lavinia has a motive to have committed the crimes. He must work fast to determine who wants to harm her as he suspects Lavinia may be the next target on the killer’s list.

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Excerpt

Casimir Kimberly strode resolutely past the throng of people gathered in the alley who were trying to catch a glimpse of the body of the woman lying at the foot of the wooden stairs. His black woolen overcoat reached to his knees and he could feel the material swirl about his legs as he walked. Casimir was not a man given to fanciful dress or cologne as some dandies and French men were known to be, but damn did he love his coat.

He made eye contact with a policeman keeping the crowd under control and the man immediately motioned for Casimir to make his way through the circle of people. Casimir glanced over his shoulder and saw that Ralphie was behind him but lagging. The man was always falling behind.

As he came closer to the body lying in an odd position from the fall, a flash of lightning dominated the sky and he looked up. It was early in the morning and most people were still in bed. The crowd that was gathered now must be the dead woman’s neighbors or local tradespeople.

He felt around in his coat pocket for his John Millar & Sons tin and took out one drop and popped it into his mouth. As the delicious flavors of black currant and licorice filled his mouth, he began to study the crowd surrounding him. He first surveyed the middle-aged men, then the women. He knew what he was searching for and his heart beat faster as the lightning flashed once more through the morning sky.

He sat back on his haunches, surveying the body before him. He had been told a portion of the woman’s story when the police had summoned him. The charwoman had lived on the second floor and the stairs leading to the flat were outside in the alleyway. Sometime in the night, the woman had fallen down the stairs and broken her neck. Some in the police said it was an accident, others were not so convinced. He had been called in to look over the scene and give his opinion. Casimir wasn’t a detective with Scotland Yard nor a private investigator who worked for the Pinkerton Detective Agency, but he was blessed—or cursed, depending on whom you asked—with an abnormal understanding of crime, its victims, and most importantly the offenders.

Casimir suddenly looked up. He sniffed the air distinctly with several sniffs to the right and then to the left and narrowed his eyes.

“Ralphie,” he growled once.

“Yes, Guvnor,” came the quick reply from the man standing nearby.

“Move that fishmonger down the lane,” Casimir said simply. “All I can smell is his two-day-old mackerel.”

“Aye, Guvnor.”

The fishmonger was moved along but Casimir’s sense of smell was compromised. He swore inwardly. He always liked to get a sense of the crime scene’s smell. The blood, the vomit, the rain, the earth. Each had its own distinct smell and each told its own story. He looked down at the body and noticed the shabbiness of her nightdress, the small feet, and the hands used to hard work. The woman was probably in her forties but her weathered face looked closer to sixty. Her forehead was deeply lined, her eyes sunken into her skeletal face.

As he took in her worn hands, he noticed something peculiar. On the ring finger of her left hand there was no ring but lighter skin where a ring had once been. He knew the woman was married.

Casimir stood up abruptly, causing the onlookers around him to gasp. He shook his head and looked about at the group. He had been so absorbed in concentrating on the woman he had forgotten about the people surrounding him in the alleyway. He looked back into the group, his eyes searching for what he had seen before to assure himself that he was correct. His eyes narrowed when he saw the exchange and then he almost grinned. This was too easy, he told himself.

He strode forward, his long legs covering vast amounts of space before he stood before a stout, well-built man in the crowd. The man had the look of a stonemason, not very tall but built like a solid bull. He eyed the man quietly, looking over his beefy chest, his bulging forearms, his black hair sprinkled with gray, and the cap he held in his hands respectfully. Casimir narrowed his eyes and watched the man glance quickly to his right and then away again.

Following his gaze, he saw what the man was looking at. A small red-haired woman with a large bosom and thick ankles. She smiled shyly back at the man before he looked away.

“He did it,” Casimir said loudly and strongly, pointing to the stonemason.

Other Books

Also on audio – The Belle of London

About the Author

Nicola is a Los Angeles native. Early in elementary school, Nicola had a great fondness for reading and began to write creatively. She graduated from university with a degree in communications and has held a variety of positions in journalism, education, government and non profit.

Nicola has traveled extensively throughout Europe, China, Central America and Egypt and loves all things historical.

She has nineteen historical romance and mystery novels on Amazon.

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Check out a Q&A with the author... Lowcountry Lost by T.I. Lowe (Interview) #newbooks #bookx #romancebooks #cleanreads #christianromance @tyndalehouse @crazy4fiction

I have another Q&A this week for you guys! Check it out below...

Lowcountry Lost

By T.I. Lowe

Christian Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction, Clean & Wholesome

Audiobook, Hardcover, Paperback & eBook, 368 Pages

September 3, 2024 by Tyndale Fiction

Summary

“T.I. Lowe delivers a soul-stirring, unforgettable romance, pairing a couple’s redemption story with the restoration of a deserted town.” BookPage, starred review

“…[A] heartfelt tale of loss, healing, and second chances . . . this story will also attract the HGTV crowd, particularly fans of shows like Fixer Upper and Home Town.” Booklist

Sometimes what haunts you most is wondering what could have been.

Avalee Elvis prides herself with being able to fix just about anything. . . except her past. Unable to put the puzzle of her life together, she pours heart and soul into making neglected places whole again. As the owner of Lowcountry Lost, Avalee spends her days in hot-pink Carhartt overalls and a tool belt reclaiming Lowcountry properties. Making them beautiful again releases the deep sigh that soothes the hurt she holds.

Avalee’s latest project takes her to tiny Somewhere, South Carolina, a long-abandoned town. She ignores its ghostly folklore but can’t miss the shock of hearing the familiar Irish brogue that materializes on the job site—the voice of the man she never wanted to see again.

Rowan Murray is a structural engineer hired by investors to oversee the redevelopment of the quaint downtown Avalee is bringing back to life. Once upon a time, he was also the man who knew Avalee better than anyone else—or so he thought. Six years ago, neither of them was prepared for the tragedy they would face together or what would happen in its wake. But as they work together to complete the rehabbing of Somewhere, their broken pieces and the pain that nearly consumed them begin to lose its grip, and both begin to wonder if it’s not too late for a restoration of their own.

From the author of the breakout Southern fiction bestseller Under the Magnolias comes a story of loss and abandonment, forgiveness, and the beauty of undying love.

- Contemporary Southern romance with a second chance romance trope
- Special features include: discussion questions for book clubs, recipes, and a playlist inspired by Avalee and Rowan’s love story
- Contains themes of loss and restoration
- For fans of HGTV shows like Fixer Upper, Home Town, and Good Bones

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Author Interview

Without giving too much away, can you tell us a little bit about the storyline of Lowcountry Lost?

It’s about one woman who feels like a ghost town—barely existing and all but forgotten— while taking on the task of bringing life back to an actual ghost town. Avalee will face her own revitalization while working on this town, uncovering a past that needs to be dealt with once and for all.

Where did your idea for this story come from?

During my pregnancy with my daughter, I was told I was miscarrying. I was beyond devastated, but then they found a heartbeat! That affected me intensely and gave me more empathy for those who do not find a heartbeat. This story is me trying to pay my love and respect to those who have lost a child.

What are some of the major themes of this story?

Grief. Found family. Second chances.

What is special about the relationship between your main characters, Avalee Elvis and Rowan Murray?

They were childhood friends first, so they have a multifaceted bond that a normal relationship doesn’t have. They came into it with personal knowledge that someone new wouldn’t know. I think that’s why they were unable to break their connection so easily.

You’ve written your fair share of love stories. How was writing a second-chance romance unique from your other love stories?

I’m a sucker for second-chance romance. It’s unique to write because the couple has history on a much deeper level than, say, a new love interest. But also unique because the separation has allowed time for change and the couple must learn each other all over again.

Is there a side character in this story you particularly enjoyed creating?

Oh, I really do love my side characters. To choose just one . . . let’s see . . . I think I have to pick Sebastian, the runaway teen. He’s been through a lot and has had to grow up way too fast. He plays a major part in Avalee and Rowan’s reconciliation.

How do you hope this story will resonate with your readers, particularly women who may relate to Avalee?

I want this story to give comfort to those who have suffered the same loss as Avalee and to give others more understanding of how losing a child impacts the parents. I hope it leads to open conversations about miscarriage and stillbirth.

How does faith play a role in this book?

We don’t understand why things happen in this life, but having faith in God is such an important part of surviving tragedy. We cannot lean into our own understandings. We must lean on God, seeking him through prayer and his Word. I think it’s okay to question God, to be honest about our grief and anger, to ask him to guide us through the dark times.

What are your favorite romance tropes (either to read or to employ in your writing)?

I love to read a lighthearted romantic comedy, because life is tough and we need more humor. I also love second-chance romances, obviously! I like seeing a couple overcome true-to-life obstacles to reclaim the love they have for each other.

Are there any other writing projects you have planned currently?

Oh yes! This curious imagination of mine never hushes up! I am currently working on two books at the same time, because, apparently, I like making things hard on myself. I hope to share more about both soon.

About the Author

T. I. Lowe is an ordinary country girl who loves to tell extraordinary stories. She is the author of twenty novels, including the bestselling Indigo Isle; the #1 international bestseller and critically acclaimed Under the Magnolias; and her debut breakout, Lulu's Café. She lives with her husband and family in coastal South Carolina. Find her at tilowe.com or on Facebook (T.I.Lowe), Instagram (tilowe), and X (@TiLowe).

Have you read this one yet? What connected with you in the interview?

Read an excerpt from the next book in this hockey romance series... Love in Overtime by Melissa Baldwin (Excerpt & #Giveaway) #bookx #newbooks #romcom #romancebooks #cleanreads #hockeyromance @XpressoTourss

I've got another excerpt to share with you today from the next book in this hockey romance series. Check that out and enter the tour giveaway below...

Love in Overtime

(Love on Thin Ice)

By Melissa Baldwin

Adult Contemporary Romantic Comedy, Sports Romance

Paperback & eBook, 170 Pages

September 19, 2024

Summary

Playing hockey in Maple Falls was meant to be just a charity gig, but then my new publicist showed up, melting the ice—and my heart.

Cooper

I never anticipated being roped into a charity hockey game during the off-season. But here I am, heading to Maple Falls, all because my publicist decided to retire. Change was inevitable, but I didn’t foresee it coming so soon.

Getting assigned a new publicist, Blair Radcliffe, didn’t sit well with me at first. However, there’s something about her – a fierce determination that’s both intriguing and challenging. I wonder if she’s ready for the whirlwind that is Cooper Montgomery. One thing’s certain– I can’t afford to fall for my publicist.

Blair

I still can’t believe I landed my dream job. The excitement is overwhelming, and I’m determined to carve out my path in the industry. But there’s one obstacle standing in my way– Cooper Montgomery, the seemingly uncooperative hockey star. Nevertheless, I’m ready to tackle the challenge head-on, and perhaps some time away in a quiet town like Maple Falls will work wonders.

What I didn’t anticipate was developing a crush on my own client. It’s the ultimate taboo in my profession, a mistake that could jeopardize everything I’ve worked for. I’m at a loss on how to navigate this newfound attraction, especially when it appears that Cooper might feel the same way. I’m not sure what to do next.

Love in Overtime is part of the Love on Thin Ice sweet small town hockey romcom series. It’s slow burn, grumpy-sunshine, workplace romance set in this small town with all the sizzle and chemistry, but none of the spice.

(Affiliate links included. Also available on KU.)

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Excerpt

“Today should be relaxing,” I tell him. “At some point I want to have a meeting to go over a few things. Practices start in a few days, as you know.”

“Yes,” he says.

“It’s going to be a great event,” I continue. “And the town is so pretty and quaint. Their fall events are popular, they’ve made the place famous.”

Cooper makes a face. “I doubt Pine Falls is famous.”

“Maple Falls,” I say with a giggle. For some reason he can’t remember the name of the town.

He groans. “Crap, you’re right. I don’t know why I keep doing that. You’ll have to keep me on my toes over the next few weeks. The last thing I need is to meet the mayor and call his town by the wrong name.”

“Oh, don’t you worry, I’ll definitely keep you on your toes,” I exclaim.

“Yes, I can tell,” Cooper replies, the corner of his mouth turns up slightly which unexpectedly makes my stomach do a flip.

Ugh. What was that?

Thankfully we arrive at the baggage carousel at the perfect moment. I conveniently excuse myself to contact our driver while Cooper waits for his bag. As soon as I’m a safe distance away from him, I let out an exasperated sigh as I call for our car.

“Hello.”

“Hi, this is Blair Radcliffe. Just confirming our pickup at the airport.”

I glance back to where Cooper is standing and meet his gaze almost immediately. I give him a quick wave and point to the phone.

“Yes, ma’am. Your driver is on his way—ETA ten minutes.”

“Wonderful. Thank you,” I gush.

I exhale slowly after I end the call. I’m not sure why I feel so frazzled. I’m usually calm, focused, and professional.

Seriously, Blair, get your head in the game. Cooper Montgomery may be attractive, but he’s my client, which means we work together. These next few weeks could make or break my career. The last thing I need is to be swooning over a professional hockey player and his tall, muscular physique. In my defense, it’s kind of hard to ignore. Cooper stands out, and I’m only human.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Melissa Baldwin always dreamed of sharing her stories with the world. She brought this vision to life, becoming an award-winning, bestselling author of over thirty romantic comedies and cozy mysteries. Melissa is also a wife, mother, new empty-nester, and travel advisor.

Her books feature charming, ambitious, and real women, whom she considers part of her tribe. Although she rarely takes a day off, when she's not writing, she enjoys quality time with her family, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and booking Disney vacations. Melissa still uses a paper planner, and her guilty pleasures include Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.

Visit authormelissabaldwin.com to sign up for her newsletter.

Fans of Melissa's books, join her Reader Tribe on Facebook.

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Have you started this series yet? Are you a sports romance or hockey fan?

Such a fun read! Witty in Pink by Erica George (Review) #bookx #newbooks #yalit #yabooks #romancebooks #historicalromance #wittyinpink @EntangledTeen

I love Regency romances, and this one was so fun! Read my review below...

Witty in Pink

By Erica George

YA Historical Romance

Paperback & eBook, 400 Pages

August 6, 2024 by Entangled: Teen

Summary

Keep your friends close. Keep your nemesis closer.

After nearly five years of avoiding him, Briggs Goswick may have appeared at my feet on horseback like a handsome white knight but, in fact, he is a certified man-child.

Briggs may be many things―a society darling (annoying), attractive (so unfair), and heir to an elite family (helpful)―but after humiliating me at a ball several years ago, he is primarily my archnemesis.

His presence has made this summer go from bad to…complicated. I have the weight of saving my family’s name and finances solely on my shoulders, while I endure an endless parade of dreary balls and insufferable suitors to make a favorable match. But I have another idea―a business venture―to save my family. All I need are investors.

And as for Briggs? He’s hiding a secret as well: he’s flat broke.

Now the person I loathe the most in this world is just as trapped as I am―both penniless and our households depending on us to save them. And I think I know how. All I have to do is play nice with the very devil I’ve sworn to hate…

His society connections can boost me from near obscurity to help me win over investors for my business. And perhaps I can help him woo an aloof heiress with deep pockets. It’s a long shot. It might even work…but do I want it to?

(Affiliate links included.)

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My Review

WITTY IN PINK is such a fun read! An enemies-to-lovers romance set between child frenemies set in Regency England. There's banter, friendship, family, chemistry, tension, trial and error, and a few twists in this sweet romance. Definitely a historical romance recommended to young adults and up!

This very much felt like a Pride and Prejudice kind of situation. The heroine has a strong personality, sharp wit, and wants to be independent. She's also poor but doesn't want to be married out of necessity. The hero is perfectly charming (except when he's around the heroine) and roguishly good looking. He's loyal, dependable, and also has a quick wit. He's also pretty much broke and has his family and estate depending upon him. The two were friends until a mishap some years previous to this story and have become enemies, cutting each other down and teasing each other mercilessly when they're around each other. However, underneath all that is a strong attraction and an old friendship that could be healed if they let it be.

I loved all the banter and chemistry between these two. I also enjoyed seeing how they softened towards each other as they finally faced the event that had so deeply ruined their friendship. The romance was delightful with a bit of heat, but still sweet. I appreciated that it wasn't just built on their mutual attraction but on a deeper relationship and friendship. I loved all the secondary characters and how they added to the story. The plot moved at a good pace most of the story with enough going on that it kept me engaged from beginning to end.

I did have a bit of a frustration with parts of this story. Mostly around the way things were dragged out in places between these characters. They both acted so ridiculously silly in parts trying to do the "right" thing for each other. I also wasn't completely sold on the heroine's business and being able to make a living with it, particularly the way it turned out. Those are my only complaints though.

In the end, was it what I wished for? This was an entertaining read! Likable characters, an engaging plot, and lightly sizzling chemistry made for an enjoyable story that kept me turning the pages. I'll definitely be checking out this author's other and future works!

Content: Some heavy making out, a gay relationship. Clean.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.

About the Author

Erica George is a writer of young adult fiction. She is a graduate of The College of New Jersey with degrees in both English and education, and is currently an MFA student at Vermont College of Fine Arts. She resides in northern New Jersey, but spends her summers soaking up the salty sea air on Cape Cod.

Find the author here.

Have you read any of this author's other books? What's one of your favorite things about historical romance?