Julie Klassen is coming to Utah!

I hate to admit it, but I haven't read any of Julie Klassen's books....yet.   There are four books on my list that I really want to read.

The Apothecary's Daughter 

Lady of Milkweed Manor 

The Dancing Master 

The Secret of Pembrooke Park 

I am excited that I  requested The Secret of Pembrook Park and I was accepted to receive a copy!  Hopefully I will receive it before she comes and I can get it autographed.

If you live in Utah and would like to go meet her and get a book signed, here is the Utah schedule!

You can visit the webpage at http://julieklassen.com/News%20&%20Events.html.

I will be going to the signing at University Village on the 6th.  Hope to see some of you there. :)

December 4, 2014	3:00 p.m.	Deseret Book - Bountiful 135 N 545 W Bountiful, UT
December 5, 2014	10:00 a.m.	Barnes and Noble Gateway 6 North Rio Grande St. Salt Lake City, UT 84101
	6:00 p.m.	Barnes and Noble Jordan Landing 7157 Plaza Center Dr. West Jordan, UT 84084
December 6, 2014	11:00 a.m.	Deseret Book - Ft. Union 1110 E. Fort Union Blvd. #4M Midvale, UT 84047
	2:00 p.m.	Deseret Book - University Village 1076 S. 750 E. Orem, UT 84097

Book review ~ "The Iron Traitor" by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Traitor by Julie Kagawa
Rating: 5 of 5 stars
Source Library Checkout
Genre: YA Fantasy

Book Description:  In the real world, when you vanish into thin air for a week, people tend to notice. 

After his unexpected journey into the lands of the fey, Ethan Chase just wants to get back to normal. Well, as "normal" as you can be when you see faeries every day of your life. Suddenly the former loner with the bad reputation has someone to try for-his girlfriend, Kenzie. Never mind that he's forbidden to see her again.

But when your name is Ethan Chase and your sister is one of the most powerful faeries in the Nevernever, "normal" simply isn't to be. For Ethan's nephew, Keirran, is missing, and may be on the verge of doing something unthinkable in the name of saving his own love. Something that will fracture the human and faery worlds forever, and give rise to the dangerous fey known as the Forgotten. As Ethan's and Keirran's fates entwine and Keirran slips further into darkness, Ethan's next choice may decide the fate of them all.

Bekah's thoughts: As always, I was impressed by Julie Kagawa's stunning  novel The Iron Traitor.  Ethan Chase is a fabulous character to read about, his sarcastic wit making each page very enjoyable.  The flow of the story is impeccable.  There was some mild profanities scattered throughout the book, and the f-word was used once.  This book is an amazing read and I would recommend it to anyone 15 years or older.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

Book Review ~ "The Lady's Maid" by Dilly Court

The Lady's Maid by Dilly Court
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Source: Netgalley (review)
Genre: Historical Romance

Book Description:  In the quiet of a warm summer's evening, two young mothers are forced to give up their babies. Whilst Kate grows up knowing only poverty and servitude, Josie's world is one of privilege and luxury.


Despite the differences in their circumstances, Kate and Josie have been friends since childhood. But their past binds them together in ways they must never know.



My thoughts; Two young women separated by social class but are the best of friends weather the social constraints of 1800's British society. Both have secrets that are kept from them about their birth, that have the potential to change their lives forever.

Josephine is a stunning woman who is spoiled and willful. She is being raised by members of the gentry, and has come to expect and demand attention and a lifestyle of privilege. Katherine is humble and loyal. She has been raised without money, and knows her place in society. Their rank doesn't stop the two girls from becoming the best of friends.

This book is about two girls who have different upbringings but experience many similarities. Both fall in love, but not with the right men in societies rules. In many ways Josephine acts like a child, she lashes out and hurts her friends, but knows she is wrong and seeks forgiveness. In some ways I liked that message, that true friends love and forgive each other. Josephine had many hard lessons to learn about friendship and how unforgiving society can be when your fortunes change.

Katherine is the real gem in the book. She is the kind of friend that everyone wants to have. She drops her own plans and dreams to help out another. Her romance is the tender and sweet one of the book. She is the one that you really want to see have a happily ever after. Not that I didn't wish for Josephine to find her happiness, Katherine is the prominent character for me.

The book has roaming hands, innuendo, and the mention of incest. It doesn't take things farther than that,

You can pick up a bargain priced used copy of the book as low as 78 cents at Amazon.

Amazon * Book Depository

About the author (taken from Goodreads):  Dilly Court grew up in North-east London and began her career in television, writing scripts for commercials. She is married with two grown-up children and four grandchildren, and now lives in Dorset on the beautiful Jurassic Coast with her husband. She is the author of seventeen novels and also writes under the name of Lily Baxter.

Website

Beam n Read Book Light ~ Product Review + tour giveaway

  Beam N Read Hands Free Travel and Reading Light

New edition Beam n Read Hands-Free Light delivers a wide & bright light that lights up 2 book pages and doesn't disturb others. It's a true reading light that works with all printed books, Kindles and other eReaders (whether naked, skinned, or covered), PLUS newspapers, magazines, newsletters, loose documents, and other items that can't support a clip-on light. Worn around the neck, there's no need to shift it when reading paperbacks. Included are two 2 special Relaxation Filters: BNR Orange for a softer, warmer light that blocks energizing blue light (especially useful when reading to relax in bed); BNR Red to block blue light and reduce ambient light for sensitive bed partners. Standard alkaline AA batteries (not included) last an extra long 100 hours, far longer than flashlights and clip-on lights resulting in a lower cost to use (and fewer batteries in the trash). This light is still bright when others have gone dim. Save batteries for when you're on the go with the optional USB/AC Power Kit with 12 ft of cable that lets you plug into the included USB/AC adapter. Or plug into a USB car adapter/charger, or a computer USB port, or a USB adapter/charger for cell phones, etc. In addition to reading, this 3 LED hands-free light is great for crafts, travel, and walking in dim or dark places such as an attic, basement, or around the house during a power outage. Use it for writing journals, working, camping, changing diapers at night, and a lot more.  

My thoughts: I was very excited when I was accepted for this tour.  One look at that light and I knew it was a product that I could use and love... I was right.  

The Beam n Read frees up both of your hands to hold the book, turn pages, etc.  When I have used a clip on reading light, I have to frequently adjust the light direction to clearly see the book page.  The Beam n Read light is rectangular and covers the  pages of the book.  It is very convenient.

For fun one  night I decided to walk down the hall with it on my neck and not turn on the lights.  It makes a great hands free flashlight.  I was amused and happy.  It will be great to take camping for the middle of the night trips to the restroom, and not have to worry about what to do with the flashlight. :)

I've tried using the light filters and they do decrease the intensity of the light beam.  It 's been wonderful for the times my husband asks me when I am going to turn off the light.  (I tend to stay up a little late reading... go figure!)

I like the accessory kit.   (It can be purchased seperately.) There is a power cable that works when you are near an outlet.  It doesn't recharge the battery, but bypasses the battery to increase battery life.  It also has an extension to make the cable longer.  I can move around with it plugged in and not stay in one position.

If you can't tell, I love this book light.

Great Holiday Gift idea!

Purchase price $19.95

Amazon

   Features

• For hands free personal light anywhere; extra bright light is easy on the eyes; doesn’t disturb others
• Wide light from 3 LEDs in a row lights up 2 book pages; works with ALL Kindles, eReaders
• BNR Orange Relaxation Filter softens and warms the cool LED light and blocks energizing blue light
• BNR Red Relaxation Filter blocks blue light, reduces ambient light, & helps maintains night vision
• Alkaline AA batteries (not incl) last Extra Long 100 hours, 3-10x longer than most clip-on lights

 

Also Available

Beam N Read USB/AC Power Kit

  Save batteries for when you're on the go or the next power outage with the Beam n Read Accessory USB Power Kit. It works with all Beam n Read LED Hands-Free lights (3 and 6 LED lights). In addition to the adapter's 6 foot BnR to USB cable, this kit includes an additional 6 foot USB extension cord letting you work up to 12 feet from a USB-A socket. Need a longer cable? - just add a standard USB extension cable. Use the included USB/AC adapter or a USB DC car adapter/charger, or a computer's USB port, or the USB adapter/charger for your cell phone, e-reader, etc. You may leave batteries in the Beam n Read or take them out to make a super lightweight light. Please note this kit is for external power adapter and will not recharge batteries.

Purchase your Adapter from
Amazon

Product Review Tour

November 10th to December 10th

Website * Facebook * Pinterest

$25 Tour Giveaway

Enter to win an Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Ends 12/15/14 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 readinglight.com. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Thanksgiving

Book Spotlight ~ "Once Upon An Ever After" by Angela Blount

Once Upon An Ever After

by Angela N. Blount

Released July 2014

Set after the events of Blount's debut memoir, Once Upon A Road Trip, this short story anthology focuses on the unusual courtship of Angeli and Vincent.

When Angeli left Minnesota on a post-high school road trip, all she wanted was to see the East Coast and finally meet some of her online friends. She didn't expect to end up in a long-distance relationship with a computer-savvy Southern boy. Yet Vincent seems determined to defy the odds. To prove his intentions, he sets off on his own quest to visit Angeli and win her family's approval. But along the way he’ll have to contend with her offbeat friends, trigger-happy father, and a few questionable run-ins with Northern hospitality. 

South meets North this time around, and "normal" isn't anywhere on the map.

With a thousand miles and radically different upbringings between them, can Angeli and Vincent forge a forever-worthy bond? Or are the roadblocks they face too much for either of them to overcome?

Amazon  /  Goodreads

What are reviewers saying?

This is an absolutely beautiful and sweet coming of age memoir and I went through every emotion whilst reading it. I laughed, I nearly cried but was quickly picked back up and read the rest of the story with a big grin! Is it too much trouble to be hoping for another installment to this? I can't get enough of Vince and Angie's story! Inspiring through and through! A big 5 stars from me on this review! Sky on Amazon

If you haven't yet read Angela's amazing awe-inspiring memoir, Once Upon a Road Trip, I'm telling you to go out and get it now! I have never meant that sentence more. Once Upon an Ever after wraps up Angeli's and Vince's story perfectly and has you happily sighing, laughing out loud and hoping their story will be a happily ever after. Bonny Bon Bon on Amazon

A little About the Author

Award-winning author Angela N. Blount is a Minnesota native, transplanted to the deep South--where she currently resides with her understanding husband, their two children, and a set of identity-confused cats. A Registered Nurse by trade, she is also a freelance content editor, former book reviewer for RT Book Reviews, a memoirist (though, not much a fan of referring to herself in first-person *cough*), craft blogger, sporadic poet, and webcomic artist. 

Angela is a PRO member of the Romance Writers of America, and was named a finalist in the 2012 Sheila, Laurie, and Orange Rose contests. She also took first place in the 2012 OKRWA Finally A Bride contest. In 2014 her debut memoir, Once Upon a Road Trip, was an NIEA finalist, a Chanticleer Journey Award finalist, and winner of the silver metal in the Literary Classics International Book Awards.

In her spare time, Angela enjoys reading, coffee shop loitering, and all things geeky. Her latest project is a YA sci-fi series.

Goodreads / Amazon / Facebook / Website / Twitter

Don't forget to grab a copy of 

Once Upon a Road Trip

Goodreads / Amazon

Book Review ~ "Will the Real Prince Charming Please Stand Up?" by Ella Martin

Will the Real Prince Charming Please Stand Up? by Ella Martin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Source: Received to Review
Genre: YA Romance

Book Description:  Bianca is the Westgate Prep quarterback’s sister—and that’s her only claim to fame. When her friends’ social experiment turns her into the It Girl of the Sopho-more class and she captures the attention of the most popular guy in her grade, though, she’s ecstatic to introduce the world to her first boyfriend. But no one’s ever told her what to do when her friends hate her boyfriend and Prince Charming starts acting like a control-freaky nightmare. It doesn’t help that being around her broth-er’s best friend is making her head all fuzzy, either.


My thoughts: Bianca's friends experiment with the PQ (popularity quotient) by campaigning for her to win as the sophomore princess in her high school's  homecoming royalty. The experiment has unexpected results that put Bianca into a hard learning curve.

Bianca has not had a boyfriend and is not familiar with romantic relationships. Her unexpected popularity has helped her gain the interest of a popular and good looking boy, Dante. He swept in and took her by surprise.

The book dealt with issues that many teenagers experience. The dangers of an obsessive and jealous boyfriend. Balancing friends and boyfriends. It even addresses the qualities that you want in a boyfriend.

For the most part the book was a fun read. I did like that serious issues were a theme in the book. As a caution, there is a little physical abuse.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

Book Review ~ "A Beauty So Beastly" by RaShelle Workman

A Beauty So Beastly by RaShelle Workman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Source: Purchased
Genre: Retelling with paranormal features

Book Description:  Book 1 in the Beastly Series

“For your vanity, your cruelty, and your cold unfeeling heart, a curse I leave upon you . . .”

What happens if the beauty is also the beast?

The stunning Beatrice Cavanaugh is considered American royalty. She has everything except the ability to love. Cursed on her eighteenth birthday, she becomes more beastly than ever, having a newfound craving for raw meat, and an undeniable yearning for the night. Bitterness is her only companion.

After accusing a maid of stealing, a disgustingly kind and exquisitely handsome guy named Adam shows up asking Beatrice to drop the charges against his mother.

Infuriated by his goodness, Beatrice vows to break him. Destroy him. Make him hurt the way she hurts. So she agrees. On one condition: Adam must take his mother’s place as a servant in the mansion.

Because Beatrice won’t stop until he’s more beastly than she is. 

My thoughts: Beatrice is cold and unfeeling. She has a problem with entitlement. She feels because she is rich and beautiful that everyone should cater to her whim.

On her 18 birthday she is cursed that unless that her true nature will become permanent if she doesn't correct her ways within a year. She begins a transformation that is painful, but necessary to fulfill her destiny.

This was an interesting book to read. It was great to see RaShelle Workman's unique take on the classic fairy tale of Beauty and the Beast. This is the second retelling of the story that I have read this week and I love that there are different interpretations available to enjoy.

This book has different species of paranormal creatures and parallel universes. This book contains many of the things that I like to read, but it fell a little flat for me. I had a hard time connecting to the characters and the story.

I did enjoy the book and I would like to see the next installment to this series.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

Blog Tour ~ "The Crystal Monkey" by Patrick Nohrden

Visit the Tour Page

The Crystal Monkey by Patrick Nohrden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Source: Received to Review
Genre: Historical Fiction

Book Description:  Little Min Li believes she lives in the world’s greatest nation until the Red Guards terrorize her village. And when her father sells her crystal monkey to buy alcohol, Min Li loses much more than a beloved toy. As she grows up, Min Li must rediscover her hope and courage in order to achieve her greatest dreams. This true-life story will capture your heart!



My thoughts: I love when a book feels like it takes me to a different time and place. This book took me to China just after the Communists took over. I saw the life of the peasant class through the eyes of Min Li. I watched as unfair punishments were handed down to humble the people and keep them in line. I saw how a young girl loved her country and then realized that the propaganda wasn't all that it was played up to be.


Even though this book is a work of fiction, it felt authentic. It was hard to read about a village being exposed to executions. It was hard to read about some of the experiences that Min Li endured. It was hard to read about the dominance of men in the home. While they were hard things to read about, they were important to the story and the transformation of a child to a young woman who realizes the problems with her government.

This book is a great coming of age story.  It contains violence and near rape that is not graphic.

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository

About the Author:  Originally from Santa Cruz, California, Patrick Nohrden left high school early in order to join the Army. After serving in various assignments throughout the U.S. and Europe, he returned to America and to school, earning a B.A. in English with Great Distinction from San Jose State University where he won two Phelan Literary Awards. Later, he obtained his law degree from the University of Akron and practiced law in Las Vegas, Nevada. Growing disillusioned with the law, after twelve years he gave up his law practice and moved to Northeast China where he taught conversational English at Bohai University. There, he fell in love with the Chinese people and has been an avid scholar of Chinese culture and history ever since, focusing his attention on modern educational systems and the era known as the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976).

Returning to the United States, Patrick Nohrden obtained his teaching license and earned a Master of Arts degree in Teaching Secondary English from Sierra Nevada College and taught public school in Las Vegas for three years venturing overseas again. He taught British Literature and Speech in Kuwait for a year where he met his Chinese wife, Limin, his inspiration for the character Min Li in The Crystal Monkey. A year later they were married in China, and he spent the next two years teaching English Literature in a special Canadian Program in Zhengzhou and was named Teacher of the Year. Now living in Reno, Nevada, with Limin, Patrick Nohrden teaches English and publications for a local high school.

An expert in modern Chinese culture, Patrick Nohrden has published more than thirty articles on China, as well as numerous articles on the Middle East, Russia, and methods of teaching English.

It's the tour Grand Finale for "Christmas, Actually"

A themed tour through Prism Book Tours.

It's the MISTLETOE KISSES TOUR Grand Finale for

Christmas, Actually

By Anna Adams, Anna J. Stewart, and Melinda Curtis

Three Harlequin Heartwarming novellas, where a sweet kiss takes place under the mistletoe.

Did you miss any of the excerpts, guest post, or reviews on the tour?

Feel free to go back and check out all the stops now!

Launch - Intro to the Collection

Christmas, Actually – three holiday stories about three siblings living in Christmas Town, Maine, where tradition has it that a kiss on Christmas Eve in the town square gazebo will lead to wedding bells in the new year!

Christy's Cozy Corners - An Interview with Anna Adams

How was it decided that the story would take place in Christmas Town, Maine?

We were looking for a setting that spoke of the holidays, and I’d lived in Maine in a town that decorated the green for Christmas. I described it, and someone suggested Christmas Town as a name for our fictional village.

Coffee Books & Art - Excerpt

Snowflakes hit the windshield and splayed into star shapes while Bing Crosby crooned his dreams of a white Christmas. Sophie Palmer tried to sing along, but her mind was already racing up the icy interstate to Christmas Town, Maine, where the father of her unborn child now lived. 

The Book Lovers' Lounge - Christmas Town by Anna Adams

And I imagined my own broken hero, Jack Banning, watching from the sidewalk, there in the town, but watching from the boundaries because he doesn’t belong any more.

Getting Your Read On - Review

"Yeah, I really loved my time in Christmas Town with the Banning family.  Each story was unique and romantic.  I loved all the characters.  They were real and identifiable.  It is the perfect book to curl up with as the days get colder and we get closer to Christmas."

Colorimetry - The Power of a First Kiss by Anna Adams

He’s at her house, killing time because he can’t go home and face his brother’s happiness when another friend calls to offer him an investment opportunity. Mary is leaning against George, also listening on the phone, when finally, he admits to his feelings. He takes her in his arms for a kiss he clearly doesn’t want even as he desires nothing in the whole wide world more than the hometown love of his life. 

Southern Chelle - Review

"I don’t think I’ve read anything by any of these authors before, but these novellas have me falling hard for their work! I used to receive the Harlequin Heartwarming books monthly, but I didn’t have room for anymore paperback books in my house and had to give it up. I’m so glad they’ve continued these offerings!"

Kelly P's Blog - An Interview with Anna J. Stewart

5. What do you hope readers will take with them after reading your story?

There's nothing better than a happily ever after--that's why I write (and read) romance, but that's kind of the easy answer. I think at its core, the story is about learning how to be open with others, to tell them how you're really feeling about situations that are emotionally damaging them.  Dean, Callie and Eliza all have to do this at some point during the story and once they do, the happily ever after is possible.

My Love for Reading Keeps Growing - Excerpt

     “Is this a bad time?” The combination of sympathy and amusement shining in green eyes, along with the tamed Irish lilt, called to mind fields of clover dotting rolling hills. She’d spent many a night and more than a few days dreaming of traveling to the Emerald Isle. Now it seemed as if Ireland had come to her.

     Shoulder-length, golden-streaked hair brushed the worn leather of the bomber jacket he wore over snug jeans, the hint of a plain white T-shirt peeking from under the collar.

The Wonderings Of One Person - Dream Cast for The Christmas Wish

There are some actors who just “hit” from the second I lay eyes on them. When looking for images of my Dean, I did not have to look much further than Chris Hemsworth.

Casting my heroines has always been problematic for me. Typically, I use another medium for inspiration (I’m a doll collector), but when I saw this picture of Nina Dobrev (Vampire Diaries), I knew that was Callie.

Christian Chick's Thoughts - Review

"The Christmas Date: The instant I started reading this story, I knew I was going to love it. There's just something about those You've Got Mail-esque stories that I love. Nick and Gina are both so likeable, and their chemistry lept off the page. This was easily my favorite of the three stories!"

Bookworm Lisa - Review

     "Each of the author's did a great job in telling their story. I liked the descriptions and the characters.

     This book is a fun way to get into the holiday season and find a little clean Christmas romance."

fundinmental - My Top Ten Christmas Traditions by Anna J. Stewart

I LOVE Christmas time. Truly, from about Halloween on, I’m all about the tinsel, the trees and the music (why do they have to stop the Xmas carols on the 26th?!). For years now it’s just been my mom and me during the holiday season, but we’ve got our traditions…and they start early…even before we carve the Thanksgiving turkey.

Beck Valley Books - An Interview with Malinda Curtis

What’s your favorite aspect of the story?
One of my favorite aspects is Gina's parents. They've tried for years to do what they thought was right and it strained their character and their relationship. This year, they rejoin the pageant and the town's festivities in a very public way. It's a small part of the story, but a set of vignettes that I love.

Mel's Shelves - Review

"I loved seeing the siblings in each other's stories and enjoyed getting to know them. These stories are quick, easy reads which are perfect to get you in the mood for Christmas. I love that they're all clean so I can recommend it to everyone! Christmas Town was a fun place to visit!"

Painted Words - Review

"But what I truly loved about this book was that it didn't feel at all repetitive which can be a big hindrance to books like this especially if written by multiple authors. It was an absolutely beautiful story, one that I look forward to reading again next year at this time and it was the perfect way to start off the season." 

I Am A Reader - Melinda Curtis’s Favorite Treat at Christmas Time (with recipe)

My mom is a fan of Jell-o salad.  At Christmas, she’d serve us a slice of Jello salad on a leaf of lettuce with a dollop of mayonnaise on top.  The first time Mr. Curtis had this dish, he happily took a big bite, expecting it to be whipped cream on top.  Kudos to him for keeping his disappointment to himself. 

Deal Sharing Aunt - Excerpt

In the wee hours of Christmas Eve morning, Gina stood at the edge of the town square and traced the deep, jagged scar that ran from her left temple to her jawline with the tip of a gloved finger, as if her touch could erase the past. The small ball of worry, the one that hadn’t let her sleep last night, expanded like bread dough in her chest, pressing against her lungs.

I should have told him.

Wishful Endings - Excerpt (4-star review here)

“Are you kidding? You’re beautiful. Why would he do that?

“You have to say that. You’re standing in my kitchen.” With me practically in your arms. Nevertheless, she hugged his words to her heart. No one had ever called her beautiful before.

JoJo's Corner - 10 Gifts Ideas for Your Teen/Young Adult & Review

I'm a little bit anal about the holidays.  I have a basic list I work from that my kids will enjoy or find useful.  They're all in college now, but that doesn't mean they want a package of socks for Christmas.  Here's a list of 10 suggested gift giving categories for your teen/young adult...

Review: "Christmas, Actually is the perfect collection of stories to cuddle up and enjoy on a cold wintry night!"

Undercover Book Reviews - Review

"Three stories in one book, a great way to start the Christmas season off! Anna Adams takes you on three separate journeys in the life of Jack, Callie, and Gina as each tells their own story. The plot is good in each one."

Katie's Clean Book Collection - Review

What a fun story! The reader is taken on a journey through Christmas Town, Maine and we get to see snippets of what makes this town special through the eyes of three different characters.

Christmas, Actually

by Anna Adams, Anna J. Stewart, & Melinda Curtis

Clean Contemporary Romance

Paperback & Ebook, 202 pages

November 1st 2014 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Discover the magic of Christmas Town, Maine!

Three lonely strangers come to Christmas Town, Maine, and find love with three Banning siblings in the town that celebrates the holidays by decorating its square with lights and ribbons and a holiday pageant on Christmas Eve. Tradition has it that a kiss beneath the mistletoe that night means marriage for the couple in the new year.

The Christmas Gift by Anna Adams:

Jack Banning promised to support the mother of his unborn child… But she doesn't need money, she only needs him.

The Christmas Wish by Anna J. Stewart:

Callie Banning's student has declared war on Christmas, so it's up to her to help the little girl—and her widowed father—believe again.

The Christmas Date by Melinda Curtis:

Gina Vernay is about to meet her online mystery date…and she's in for the surprise of a lifetime!

Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Harlequin - iTunes

About the Authors

Anna Adams wrote her first romance in wet sand. The Atlantic Ocean washed it away, but Anna kept going. Her stories are of love, like the proverbial stone in a lake, making ripples that spread and contract and involve. From Iceland to Hawaii, and points in between, Anna and her own hero share with children and family and friends who’ve become family. All this living and loving gives Anna plenty of fodder for stories of love set in real life. Come along and live them with her!

Website - Goodreads - Facebook - Twitter - Pinterest

Anna J. Stewart can't remember a time she didn't have a book in her hand or a story in her head and credits her mother never saying no to a book for turning her into a writer. Anna lives in Northern California with an overly attentive cat named Snickers and is happiest when setting her heroes and heroines on their road to happily ever after amidst family, fun and laughter.

Website - Goodreads - Facebook - Twitter - Pinterest

Melinda Curtis grew up on an isolated sheep ranch, where mountain lions had been seen and yet she roamed unaccompanied. Being a rather optimistic, clueless of danger, sort she took to playing "what if" games that led her to become an author. She spends days trying to figure out new ways to say "He made her heart pound." That might sound boring, but the challenge keeps her mentally ahead of her 3 kids and college sweetheart husband.

Website - Goodreads - Facebook - Twitter - Tumblr - Pinterest

Tour-Wide Giveaway

- Gift Card Prize Pack: $20 Amazon gift card and ebook of Christmas, Actually (open internationally)

- US Prize Pack: Paperback of Christmas, Actually and three Christmas ornaments (US only)

- 3 ebooks of Christmas, Actually (open internationally)

Ends November 30th

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Review ~ "Becoming Beauty" by Sarah Boucher

Becoming Beauty by Sarah Boucher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Source: Received to Review
Genre: Retelling

Book Description: Claws. Long, filthy, and dangerously sharp. 

They’re the first thing Bella sees after what’s been the worst day of her life. If Bella were the quintessential Beauty—gorgeous, kindhearted, and self-sacrificing—she might have a chance at transforming this monster into a man, but she’s never been the toad-kissing kind. Obsessed with landing a wealthy nobleman and escaping her humdrum life, Bella will stop at nothing to achieve her goals. Which is precisely what landed her here, at the mercy of the Beast.

In this imaginative retelling of Beauty and the Beast, Bella's sense of entitlement strains both her family's finances and patience. As punishment for her selfishness, she's sent into the Beast's service where she must choose whether to follow the path she's always dreamed of—or risk it all for something even greater. 


My thoughts: Bella has a dream. She wants to marry a man of means. Being a humble carpenter's daughter is not fulfilling. She wants jewels, dresses, and living in luxury. Her selfishness takes her father to the home of the "beast". Now she finds herself a servant to an ornery master.

As the book began I could see some similarities to the the Beauty and The Beast story that I was familiar with. The big difference from the start, that the main character in the other stories was selfless and kind. Bella in this version was greedy and grasping.

There were many twists on the original story. The beast is not the only character in need of transformation. To me this story represented the choices we have in our behavior. We can be ruled by circumstances or adapt and make the most of our lives in spite of circumstances.

I liked this original take on a well known story. Sarah Boucher has done a wonderful job at making the story her own.

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This book is currently on tour.  I did not get my review done in time for my tour stop.  Go to this link to see the tour stops and enter the giveaway.

About the Author: Sarah E. Boucher spends her days instilling young children with the same love of literature she has known since childhood. After hours, she pens her own stories and nurses an unhealthy obsession for handbags, high heels, baking, and British television. Sarah is a graduate of Brigham Young University, who currently lives and teaches in Ogden, Utah. Becoming Beauty is her first novel.

Visit Sarah at blog/website (SarahEBoucher.com) 

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