Review & Giveaway: How to Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling - Blog Tour

Title: How to Ravish a Rake
Series: How To Series #3
Author: Vicky Dreiling | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Historical Romance
Reading Level: Adult










Synopsis via Goodreads:


SCANDALOUS DESIRES . . . 

Amy Hardwick has one last Season to shake off her wallflower image and make a love match. If she can't, she'll set aside her dreams of romance and return home to a suitor who can provide security-if little else. What she doesn't count on is the inappropriate-and irresistible-attention lavished on her in a darkened library by rake extraordinaire Will "The Devil" Darcett . . .

DEVILISH DELIGHT

When Will is caught in a tryst with the ton's shyest miss, he knows he must offer for her hand. Yet Amy is not the shrinking violet she seems to be. Passion lies beneath her prim exterior and Will is eager to release it. But winning Amy isn't simply a matter of seduction; first, Will must convince her that he's mended his wicked ways . . 


My thoughts:


First I have to comment on this cover. The colors and THAT dress and the guy! I am in love ♥ This is without a doubt my most favorite cover EVER!


Vicky Dreiling has quickly taken over the #1 spot on my list of favorite historical romance authors. She pairs smart and fun dialogue with well developed characters and premises unique to the historical romance genre. When picking up one of her novels I know it will be unlike anything else I have ever read. How to Ravish a Rake stays true to what I’ve come to expect from Dreiling and just might be her best novel yet. 


I enjoyed catching up with the characters I have come to love over the course of this series. Aunt Hester, Georgette, Beau, Charles Osgood, Hawk, and Julianne all make an appearance. I also loved meeting new characters I hope we get to know better in future novels (I'm talking about you Earl of Bellingham aka Bell).


After meeting Amy earlier in the series, I couldn't wait to see her finally get her HEA. I wasn't sold on her match with the classic youngest sibling, and notorious rake, Will. They are complete opposites, but that seemed to be what made their romance work. Will is somewhat childish at times, but that also seemed to fuel his wonderful sense of humor and love of adventure (the two things I loved most about him). Amy is always so levelheaded and sensible. Will is the perfect man to help her shed her wallflower image once and for all. He brings out a side of Amy that I'm not even sure she knew she had. I loved the amount of fun their romance contained. The progression of both characters was beautiful to watch. I was actually sad when the book ended. I didn’t want my time with Amy and Will to come to an end. I hope we get a glimpse of what happened after the final page in Dreiling's future novels.


How to Ravish a Rake was a pleasure to read. The reformation of the rake is a theme I don't think I'll ever tire of. I can't wait to see what Vicky Dreiling comes up with next.

My Rating:

Source: Received from publisher in exchange for my review.


Giveaway Details:


3 copies of How to Ravish a Rake are up for grabs courtesy of Hachette!
Open to the US & Canada
No P.O Boxes please
Winners are subject to Hachette's 1 copy per household rule
Please fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter

Review & Giveaway: Forever's Paranormal Blog Tour - Stella Cameron & Cynthia Garner

Title: Darkness Bound

Series: Chimney Rock #1

Author: Stella Cameron | Website

Available: Now

Reading Level: Adult

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis via Goodreads:

WHEN NIGHT FALLS

After her husband's tragic death, Leigh Kelly arrives on Whidbey Island determined to start over. Yet the tiny town of Chimney Rock is not as peaceful as it seems. Women have been disappearing, and Leigh can't shake the feeling that she's being watched . . . especially at night. Soon, she's experiencing visions she can't explain and fighting her attraction to a handsome stranger who seems to know her most intimate desires.

PASSION TRANSFORMS THEM

As the leader of the Team, a pack of werehounds forced to hide their very existence, former special ops soldier Niles Latimer is desperate to prove a man's heart beats beneath his predator's body. And Leigh-the mysterious beauty possessing powers she doesn't yet understand-may be the one woman who can help him. But Niles isn't the only one who recognizes Leigh's true identity. Something evil is waiting in the woods-and the hunt has begun . . .

My thoughts:

Darkness Bound is a series debut that left me seriously impressed. A perfect mix of paranormal and mystery. I fell in love immediately with the small town in which the story takes place. Main characters Niles and Leigh were relatable and very easy to like. Niles had the whole chivalrous old-fashioned thing going on. I really liked that about him. Leigh is damaged and struggling to recover from the loss of her husband. I admired her strength and will. She is a character I know I'll remember long after I finished reading.

The vast cast of secondary characters could have been a hindrance, but I thought each added a nice element to the story. They all seemed to have secrets just waiting to be discovered which only helped to engage more. Usually it is the paranormal aspects I favor most about a book, but in this case I loved the mysteries.

I just adored Cameron's writing style. It was wonderfully descriptive and flowed so smoothly. The plot also moved at a consistent pace. The world is intricate and the cast is large. This is something that can easily wreck a series debut, but I didn't feel this was the case at all with Darkness Bound. Loved it and can't wait for more!

Title: Kiss of the Vampire

Series: Warriors of the Rift #1

Author: Cynthia Garner | Website

Available: Now

Reading Level: Adult

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Called in to investigate a string of violent murders, special agent Tobias Caine isn't interested in rekindling his relationship with half-demon, half-human Nix de la Fuente. Yet one look and the vampire knows his need for her is as strong as ever. 

My thoughts:

When it comes to novels gracing the shelves of the paranormal romance section, it is very hard to find something I'd consider unique. There are only so many twists you can put on the vampire/werewolf/demon/angel spin. Cynthia Garner managed to bring something utterly unique to this genre. 3 parts paranormal romance and 1 part sci-fi add up to a world I found absolutely refreshing. I love the idea that these alien creatures are coming to earth through a "rift" and inhabiting the bodies of humans. Realistic? Not so much. Entertaining? Oh hell yeah! When I pick up a novel from this genre I want to be entertained, and I most definitely was!

Nix is an awesome character. She is half human and half demon. Her struggle to control her demon side is a constant battle. The fact that she is still sane is a testament to her strength. Partner Dante is another favorite character of mine. I look forward to getting to know him better in the next book. Love interest Tobias was a little bland in my opinion. I just never felt much love for him. I can't pinpoint what it is exactly. I didn't hate him, but he also didn't make me swoon. I guess you could say my opinion was neutral. He is a nice enough guy, but I didn’t get what all the fuss was about. My love for Nix and fascination with the secondary characters held my interest continuously, so the lack of love for Tobias didn't do a thing to hinder my enjoyment.

This is another case of complex world building executed with perfection. I loved experiencing everything through the POV of law enforcement.  The plot moved at a smooth pace with a nice amount of action. I’m excited to see where this series takes us next!

This is a fantastic series debut that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for something a little different in the PNR genre.

Giveaway Details:

I have 3 sets of Darkness Bound & Kiss of the Vampire up for grabs courtesy of Hachette Book Group.

Open to the U.S & Canada

No P.O Boxes please

Winners are subject to Hachette's 1 copy per household rule

Books ship directly from publisher

Please fill out the RaffleCopter form to enter!

Ends 3/21

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Feature & Giveaway: PS - I Love You Blog Tour

All I Want Is You 

by Sherrill Bodine

Available: Now

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Reading Level: Adult

Synopsis via Goodreads:

SHE'S STEALING HIS HEART . . .

Vintage boutique owner Venus Smith is stunned to realize her newest acquisition comes with a larcenous legend. Stolen years ago, the antique mermaid brooch belongs to the Clayworth family. The right thing to do would be to return it, but that means facing Connor Clayworth O'Flynn, the sexy department store heir Venus has had an unrequited crush on since childhood-and the man who helped ruin her father.

ONE KISS AT A TIME

Connor knows that Venus has never forgiven him for what happened between their families. But business isn't personal, even though Venus's father's betrayal still cuts him like a knife. So when Venus proposes a deal-she'll return his family's brooch if he helps clear her father's name-he reluctantly agrees. As action-packed days turn into flirtatious fall nights, it isn't long before old memories resurface . . . and new desires ignite. Can two young lovers leave the past behind? Or must they first admit that all they've ever really wanted . . . is each other?

Sherrill Bodine on the web:

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Sanctuary Cove

by Rochelle Alers

Available: Now

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Reading Level: Adult

Synopsis via Goodreads:

Sometimes love is the simplest choice of all.

Still reeling from her husband's untimely death, Deborah Robinson needs a fresh start. So she decides to pack up her family, box up her bookstore, and return to her grandmother's ancestral home on Cavanaugh Island. The charming town of Sanctuary Cove holds happy memories for Deborah. And, after she spies a gorgeous stranger in the local bakery, it promises the possibility for a bright, new future.

Dr. Asa Monroe is at a crossroads. Ever since the loss of his family, he has been on a quest for faith and meaning, traveling from one town to another. When he meets Deborah, the beautiful bookstore owner with the warm eyes and sunny smile, Asa believes he has finally found a reason to stay in one place.

As friendship blossoms into romance, Deborah and Asa discover they may have a second chance at love. But small towns have big secrets. Before they can begin their new life together, the couple must confront a challenge they never expected . . . 

Rochelle Alers on the web:

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Giveaway Details:

I have 3 sets of All I Want Is You & Sanctuary Cove up for grabs courtesy of Hachette Book Group

Open to the U.S & Canada

No P.O Boxes please

Limit 1 set per household

Ends 1/23

Fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter

Review & Giveaway: Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis - Blog Tour

Title: Head Over Heels
Series: Lucky Harbor #3
Author: Jill Shalvis | Website
Available: Now
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Reading Level: Adult












Description via Goodreads:


Breaking rules and breaking hearts 

Free-spirited Chloe lives life on the edge. Unlike her soon-to-be married sisters, she isn't ready to settle into a quiet life running their family's newly renovated inn. But soon her love of trouble--and trouble with love-draws the attention of the very stern, very sexy sheriff who'd like nothing better than to tame her wild ways. 

Suddenly Chloe can't take a misstep without the sheriff hot on her heels. His rugged swagger and his enigmatic smile are enough to make a girl beg to be handcuffed. For the first time, instead of avoiding the law, Chloe dreams of surrender. Can this rebel find a way to keep the peace with the straitlaced sheriff? Or will Chloe's colorful past keep her from a love that lasts . . . and the safe haven she truly wants in a town called Lucky Harbor?

Quotable Quotes:

"One hundred thousand sperm and he'd been in the fastest."

My thoughts:

Jill Shalvis has wowed me in Lucky Harbor again. In this installment we finally explore the combustible chemistry radiating between youngest sister, Chloe, and local sheriff, Sawyer. Chloe’s sisters and Lucky Harbor locals refer to her as the “Wild Child”. She is a free spirit who longs for others to take her more seriously (especially her sisters) without having to sacrifice the fundamentals of who she is. Sawyer is just about as opposite of Chloe as you can get. Only thing is Sawyer wasn't always such a straight arrow and has spent most of his adult life trying to forget the troubled teen he used to be. These two have more in common than either realizes.

I absolutely adored the first two books in this series, but Chloe and Sawyer's story is my favorite. Chloe is a total sweetheart and the sister I feel has changed the most since the inn she inherited from her mother brought her to Lucky Harbor a year earlier. She has such an intoxicating personality and her love of adventure is highly contagious. She also has the ability to love others with such intensity, even if actually speaking those three little words out loud scares the hell out of her. 


Sawyer is all alpha and serious. He has such a strong need to protect those around him. It is no wonder he became a police officer. The care he shows Chloe over and over when it comes to her debilitating asthma had my heart melting into a puddle of goo. You just don't expect the sweet side of him. He is undeniably sexy for a man of so little words. I usually like my male leads sarcastic and funny, but Sawyer is an exception (possibly the only one) to the rule. I was crushing hard the entire time I read. The romance between Chloe and Sawyer shouldn't work, but it does beautifully. Jill Shalvis has outdone herself with Lucky Harbor's newest love match.


Contemporary romance isn't one of my "go to" genres. I do enjoy reading it, but find I usually uncover more misses than hits. Jill Shalvis is an author who I know won't disappoint. She proves romance novels don't have to be cheesy or host to page after page of sappy cliches. She combines witty dialogue, swoon worthy romance, and dramatic elements with expertise. There is also a little action in this one thanks to Sawyer’s new side job. The Lucky Harbor series is without a doubt one of my favorites. I can see myself reading these again and again.  

I'm also thrilled my time in Lucky Harbor won't end with Head Over Heels. Other residents of this adorable little town will have the chance at their HEA too! This is a series that doesn't have to be read in order, but I highly recommend it to get the full backstory on not only Chloe and Sawyer, but the other one of a kind characters you will meet in Lucky Harbor. 


P.S I'll never be able to paint again without thinking of Chloe and Sawyer. Believe me when I say it is a scene not to be missed :)

My Rating:

Earlier books in this series:

Simply Irresistible - My Review

The Sweetest Thing - My Review

I also have 3 copies of Head Over Heels up for grabs (thanks Hachette Book Group!)

Open to residents of the US & Canada

No P.O Boxes please

Winners are subject to Hachette's 1 copy per household rule

Please fill out the RaffleCopter form to enter

Giveaway: The Great Scots and Highland Heat Blog Tour

Title: The Sinner

Series: Return of the Highlanders #2

Author: Margaret Mallory | Website

Available: Now

Genre: Historical Romance

Reading Level: Adult

Alex MacDonald is known for his skill as a warrior, his prowess with women, and his vow to never take a wife. But now his chieftain has asked him to make the ultimate sacrifice: wed Glynis MacNeil, a lass famed throughout the Highlands for her exquisite beauty—and defiant ways. Familiar with heartbreak, Glynis refuses to fall for another handsome scoundrel. Yet when Alex’s past sins force an unlikely union, Glynis gives in to temptation and becomes his wife. Will their newfound passion be strong enough to fight the enemy that threatens their home, their clan, and their very lives?

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Title: Highland Hero

Series: Scottish Knights Trilogy #2

Author: Amanda Scott | Website

Available: Now

Genre: Historical Romance

Reading Level: Adult

When Scotland’s Queen Annabella dies, her devastated niece, Lady Marsaili Cargill, takes charge of the seven-year-old prince James, who is second in line to the throne. But rumors abound that the King’s brother—the Duke of Albany—will stop at nothing to fulfill his ambition to govern Scotland. But before Marsi can help the young prince escape to the safety of St. Andrews Academy, she will need to confront the men seeking to use her—and accept the help of the King’s devoted master archer, Sir Ivor Mackintosh. With traitors and assassins all around, Marsi and Ivor must risk all for the little prince James, while hoping for a future that will allow their love to flourish.

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I have 3 sets of The Sinner & Highland Hero up for grabs courtesy of Hachette Book Group.

Please use the RaffleCopter form below to enter.