Review: Wonderfully Wicked by Deborah Blake- Baba Yaga Series – Book 2

Posted on 12/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Wonderfully Wicked

Baba Yaga Series – Book 2

By Deborah Blake

Synopsis

Known as the wicked witch of Russian fairy tales, Baba Yaga is not one woman, but rather a title carried by a chosen few. They keep the balance of nature and guard the borders of our world, but don’t make the mistake of crossing one of them…

Though she looks like a typical California surfer girl, Beka Yancy is in fact a powerful yet inexperienced witch who’s struggling with her duties as a Baba Yaga. Luckily she has her faithful dragon-turned-dog for moral support, especially when faced with her biggest job yet…

A mysterious toxin is driving the Selkie and Mer from their homes deep in the trenches of Monterey Bay. To investigate, Beka buys her way onto the boat of Marcus Dermott, a battle-scarred former U.S. Marine, and his ailing fisherman father.

While diving for clues, Beka drives Marcus crazy with her flaky New Age ideas and dazzling blue eyes. She thinks he’s rigid and cranky (and way too attractive). Meanwhile, a charming Selkie prince has plans that include Beka. Only by trusting her powers can Beka save the underwater races, pick the right man, and choose the path she’ll follow for the rest of her life…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

When the underwater inhabitants of Monterey Bay mysteriously begin getting sick, Beka Yancy is approached by Boudicca, Queen of the Merpeople, and Gwrtheyrn, the Selkie King, with a request that she, as a Baba Yaga, help unravel the mystery. Marcus Dermott, home again in Monterey to help his ailing father on his fishing boat, is concerned. Not only do he and his crusty Irish father not see eye to eye, the fish seem to have disappeared, leaving his livelihood in danger of failing. With a common goal, Marcus and Beka go to work to uncover the secret of the bay.

As a fan of WICKEDLY DANGEROUS, the first book in the Baba Yaga series by Deborah Blake, I was anxious to read WICKEDLY WONDERFUL. Deborah has scored another winner, once again delivering a fresh take on the traditional Baba Yaga stories. Beka, while very different from Barbara (Book 1), is just as engaging in her own way. Her element is the sea, and so she feels compelled to help the Merfolk and Selkies. Even though she’s still somewhat a novice as a Baba, she steps outside of her comfort zone to help solve the mystery. Marcus is a no-nonsense kind of guy, and about as far from what he views as Beka’s New Age flakiness as can be, but finds himself drawn to her nonetheless. Together they make for a fun and entertaining couple. I loved seeing Beka come into her own, and grow as a Baba, and for Marcus to embrace ideas that were foreign and sometimes uncomfortable.

One of the things that I like best about Deborah’s books is that she manages to pair paranormal romance with social issues (in this case, the importance of mindful living, and stewardship of our resources in a way that is neither preachy nor off-putting), while delivering fast-paced plotting and quirky and likeable characters. I look forward to reading more of her unique storytelling in the near future.
Author Bio:

Author of seven non-fiction books from Llewellyn. Circle, Coven & Grove: A Year of Magickal Practice (2007), Everyday Witch A to Z (2008), The Goddess is in the Details (2009), Everyday Witch A to Z Spellbook (2010) Witchcraft on a Shoestring (2010), Everyday Witch Book of Rituals, and The Witch’s Broom. I am also the author of the Baba Yaga series from Berkley Romance, including Wickedly Magical (novella), Wickedly Dangerous, and Wickedly Wonderful.

I live in a 120 year old farmhouse in upstate NY with five cats, and run an artists’ cooperative shop when I’m not writing.

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Review: Justified by Aurora Rose Reynolds- Alfha Series- Book 1

Posted on 12/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Justified

Alfha Series – Book 1

By Aurora Rose Reynolds

Synopsis

After the first sighting, he’s fascinated.

After the first smile, he’s infatuated.

By the first kiss, he’s obsessed.

Nolan sees Chloe through a window of a bakery in downtown Manhattan. At first sight, something about her calls to a piece of him he thought was lost. Without thinking, he begins watching her, and when the moment presents itself, he strikes, claiming Chloe for himself.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Looking for a quick read during this busy time of year? Looking for a hot alpha and a sweet woman that can wrap the hot alpha around her little finger? Looking for a steamy romance with scorching love scenes? Look no more! Justified by Aurora Rose Reynolds has all this and more!

Do you believe in love at first sight? Nolan didn’t until he saw Chloe working in the bakery. One look and he knew he had to have her. He was determined to dominate Chloe no matter what. Lucky for him that Chloe’s feelings were mutual.

From this point on the sizzling hot chemistry and scorching love scenes will burn up your ereader.

Justified is the perfect short book to read during this busy season. Warning… this book may make you combust!

Aurora Rose Reynolds never disappoints!

About Aurora Rose Reynolds

Aurora Rose Reynolds is a navy brat who’s husband served in the United States Navy. She has lived all over the country but now resides in New York City with her Husband and pet fish. She’s married to an alpha male that loves her as much as the men in her books love their women. He gives her over the top inspiration everyday. In her free time she reads, writes and enjoys going to the movies with her husband and cookie. She also enjoys taking mini weekend vacations to nowhere, or spends time at home with friends and family. Last but not least she appreciates everyday and admires it’s beauty.

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Review: Only For You by Beth Kery- One Night of Passion Series- Book 3

Posted on 12/11/2014 by shellbellereads

Only For You

One Night Of Passion Series- Book 3

By Beth Kery

Synopsis

Some passions are too hot to disguise…

Former Army intelligence officer Seth Hightower may work with the Hollywood elite as a makeup artist, but he’s learned not to trust the rich and famous with anything more than a good time. Only one woman ever tempted him to break his rules about dating actresses–and she left him with the memory of a single night and a lifetime of what-ifs.

Hollywood “It” girl Gia Harris is used to being in the spotlight. But after she witnesses something that puts her life in danger, she needs to avoid prying eyes. Seth’s special skills make him the perfect person to keep her famous face out of the news, but their history makes him the last person she wants to be alone with. He’s far too tempting–and now, far too close…

As Seth conceals Gia from those who would do her harm, they can’t ignore the blistering attraction between them. And when they give in to their cravings, they reveal more about themselves than either of them has ever laid bare before…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

Seth Hightower knows all about make-believe. As one of Hollywood’s premier special effects artists, it is his business to craft facades, to help actors and actresses become their characters. When he and Gia Harris meet by chance, he doesn’t know that she is well on her way to becoming Hollywood’s new ‘It’ girl, a rising star in the film world. Their chemistry is explosive, and their hot encounter is one that neither one will forget.

Being a fan of hot alpha men who know what they want and aren’t afraid to grab it, ONLY FOR YOU seemed like just the kind of read for me. Seth Hightower is all of this and then some. Not only does he possess fabulous artistic ability, he is also a former military intelligence officer, and it is both these talents that have led to his reunion with Gia, now a star in her own right, and the chief witness in a high-profile criminal case. The powers-that-be need Seth and his expert abilities to both hide and protect Mia until she can testify in the case. But there is one big problem: Seth doesn’t ‘do’ actresses, and, although he and Gia are still attracted to each other, he is adamant that they keep things professional. But, the best laid plans, and all of that, because it isn’t long until they are unable to deny their feelings for each other and take up where they left off two years previously. Did I say hot? The sexy time scenes in this book had me fanning myself. They are SCORCHING.

I very much enjoyed not only the plotlines, but the characters in ONLY FOR YOU. Seth and Gia are well matched, and, despite their differences, really make it work as a couple. As well, the action is fast-paced, and I found it hard to put this read down. I look forward to reading more by Beth, and seeing more leading men like Seth.

Author Bio

Beth Kery is the New York Times and USA Today best selling author of over thirty novels, novellas and serials. She writes contemporary romances as well as erotic contemporary romances, her hallmarks being emotional intensity, leap-off-the-page realistic characters and steamy sexual tension.

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Review: The Good Chase by Hanna Martine – The Highland Games Series- Book 2

Posted on 12/11/2014 by shellbellereads

The Good Chase

The Highland Games Series – Book 2

By Hanna Martine

Synopsis

The second in the Highland Games series, following Long Shot

Gleann, New Hampshire’s annual highland games always deliver the best of Scottish culture—rowdiness, rugby, whiskey, and unexpected romance…

Even though Shea Montgomery’s swanky bar and distinguished palate have made her a highly regarded whiskey connoisseur, she’s happiest bringing her favorite spirit to various highland games around New England. Her demanding ex made her wary of men obsessed with money and status, and she’s now more comfortable in the country than in the city. Still, when a gorgeous rugby player straight from Wall Street barrels into her whiskey tent, she’s tempted to change her mind…

J.P. Byrne went from poor beginnings to international high roller by using his charisma and wit, and holding fast to his dreams. A strong, independent woman like Shea is exactly what he’s looking for, only he has no idea how to prove he’s more than his three-piece suits—especially when he’s spent years doing just the opposite.

But as Shea and Byrne battle old demons, they discover together that the best remedy for past pain is a good, stiff shot of present pleasure…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

Once a naive young woman under the thumb of a selfish and overbearing husband, Shea Montgomery is now the independent and successful owner of her bar, the Amber Room. Being a fan of all things Scottish, from men in kilts to bagpipes to Highland games, Shea’s biggest love is helping people learn more about the whisky that her place is named for. J.P. Byrne knows what it’s like to do without. Having worked his way up from nothing, he is determined to use his success to help the people that he cares most about. His passion for rugby has led to several encounters with Shea, which have not gone as smoothly as he’d like. What’s a guy to do to win the heart of a strong woman who is determined to live life on her own terms?

THE GOOD CHASE is a fun read, with extremely likeable characters, and an interesting storyline. Shea is a strong lady, which is absolutely something that appeals to me. She’s had the experience of living a life dictated by her former husband, and is not about to put herself in the same situation again. Byrne is drawn to her independence, and is intent on proving that he’s more than his career and his material success, and is more than happy to support her choices.

THE GOOD CHASE is part of a series, but I did not feel that I needed to have read the first book to enjoy this one. I very much enjoyed reading it, and look forward to more books by Hanna Martine.

Author Bio:

I have loved stories–particularly the romantic kind–since I was very young. I spent a decade working in an office, but I’ve since dedicated myself to writing. I’ve traveled to many wonderful places around the world, including the haunted Scottish castle in which I got married. Though I live outside Chicago with my family, my heart will always belong to Australia.

The books listed here on my Goodreads page are ones that have influenced my writing, that have spoken to me in some deep and wonderful way, and that I enthusiastically recommend.

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Holiday Review: Holding Holly by Julie Brannagh- Love and Football Series- Book 4.5- A Holiday Novella

Posted on 12/11/2014 by shellbellereads

Holding Holly

A Holiday Novella

Love and Football Series- Book 4.5

By Julie Brannaugh

Synopsis

Julie Brannagh’s delightful Love and Football series returns in time for Christmas …

Holly Reynolds has a secret. Make that two. The first involves upholding her grandmother’s hobby of answering Dear Santa letters from dozens of local schoolchildren. The second … well, he just came strolling in the door.

For the last two years, Holly has not been able to stop thinking about gorgeous Seattle Shark Derrick Collins. His on-field exploits induce nightmares in quarterbacks across the NFL, but she knows he has a heart of gold.

Derrick has never known a woman he wanted to bring home to meet his family, mostly because he keeps picking the wrong ones—until he runs into sweet, shy Holly Reynolds. Different from anyone he’s ever known, Derrick realizes she might just be everything he needs.

When he discovers her holiday letter writing, he is determined to play Santa too. And as the pair team up to bring joy to one little boy very much in need, they discover the most precious Christmas gift of all: love.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

*** Arc Copy provided by publisher, via Edelweiss, for a fair and honest review. ***

Back in November Smut Book Junkie Reviewers were searching for Holiday Themed Romances to feature throughout the month of December. I came across this book and it sounded very intriguing. First of all, I am a huge fan of Sports Romances. I love a good romance that engages a professional athlete in the game of love. Secondly, I love Holiday Romances. These kind of books always get me in the holiday spirit. The combination is bright and merry and leaves the reader with an uplifted spirit.

Holding Holly was everything I hoped for. It had the magic of Christmas, the spirit of giving, a heartwarming romance, and exceptional characters. This book was highly entertaining even though it was on the milder side of the romance heat index. It didn’t matter because the story itself was captivating.

When Derrick Collins takes his mother and grandmother out for some holiday shopping in the small town of Noel, he stumbles upon more than a town full of holiday cheer. He runs into Holly Reynolds. He has secretly had a crush on Holly from the previous summer football camp. She is a shy, kind , and beautiful woman that intrigues his interest.

When Derrick asks Holly on a date, little do either of them know that this date will change both of them. Trapped in a snow storm with Holly’s grandmother will give them another reason to be together. Holly’s grandmother has had a 30 year Christmas project that she needs help with. She enlists Derrick, Holly, and the Sharks to give one family in Noel a very special Christmas. This project will give Derrick and Holly the gift of love in many ways.

I absolutely loved this magical holiday romance. Little did I know that this book was a novella in the Love and Football series. I liked Julie Brannagh’s style of writing. Her characters are larger than life and full of personality. Her writing flows with ease. I had to look up the other books in this series and get them on my ereader. Like I said, I am a sucker for Sports Romance. I am now a fan of Julie Brannagh’s writing. I highly recommend Holding Holly. It will make your holiday season merrier.

Love and Football Series

Blitzing Emily – Book 1

All’s fair in Love and Football . . .

Emily Hamilton doesn’t trust men. She’s much more comfortable playing the romantic lead in front of a packed house onstage than in her own life. So when NFL star and alluring ladies’ man Brandon McKenna acts as her personal white knight, she has no illusions that he’ll stick around. However, a misunderstanding with the press throws them together in a fake engagement that yields unexpected (and breathtaking) benefits.

Every time Brandon calls her “Sugar,” Emily almost believes he’s playing for keeps—not just to score. Can she let down her defenses and get her own happily ever after?

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ ITunes

Rushing Amy – Book 2

For Amy Hamilton, only three Fs matter: Family, Football, and Flowers. It might be nice to find someone to share Forever with, too, but right now she’s working double overtime while she gets her flower shop off the ground. The last thing she needs or wants is a distraction … or help, for that matter. Especially in the form of gorgeous and aggravatingly arrogant ex-NFL star Matt Stephens.

Matt lives by a playbook—his playbook. He never thought his toughest opponent would come in the form of a stunning florist with a stubborn streak to match his own. Since meeting her in the bar after her sister’s wedding, he’s known there’s something between them. After she refuses—again and again—to go out with him, Matt will do anything to win her heart … But will Amy, who has everything to lose, let the clock run out on the one-yard line?

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ ITunes

Catching Cameron – Book 3

Star sports reporter Cameron Ondine has one firm rule: she does not date football players. Ever. She tangled with one years ago, and it did not end well. Been there, done that.

But when Cameron comes face-to-face with the very man who shattered her heart—on camera, no less—her world is upended for a second time by recklessly handsome Seattle Shark Zach Anderson.

Zach has never been able to forget the gorgeous blonde who stole his breath away when he was still just a rookie. They’ve managed to give each other a wide berth for years, but when their jobs suddenly bring them together again and again, he knows he has to face his past once and for all.

Because as they spend more time together, he becomes less focused on the action on the field and more concerned with catching Cameron.

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ ITunes

Covering Kendall – Book 4

Kendall Tracy, General Manager of the San Francisco Miners, is not one for rash decisions or one-night stands. But when she finds herself alone in a hotel room with a heart-stoppingly gorgeous man—who looks oddly familiar—Kendall throws her own rules out the window … and they blow right back into her face.

Drew McCoy should look familiar; he’s a star player for her team’s archrival, the Seattle Sharks. Which would basically make Drew and Kendall the Romeo and Juliet of professional football … well, without all the dying.

Not that it’s an issue. They agree to pretend their encounter never happened. Nothing good can come of it anyway, right?

Drew’s not so sure. Kendall may be all wrong for him, but he can’t stop thinking about her, and he finds that some risks are worth taking. Because the stakes are always highest when you’re playing for keeps.

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ ITunes

Author Bio:

Julie Brannagh has been writing since she could hold a pencil. She lives in a small town near Seattle, where she once served as a city council member and owned a yarn shop. She shares her home with a wonderful husband, two uncivilized Maine Coons and a rambunctious chocolate Lab.

When she’s not writing, she’s reading–or armchair-quarterbacking her favorite NFL team from the comfort of the family room couch. Julie is a Golden Heart finalist and the author of contemporary sports romances.

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Review: Presently Perfect by Alison G. Bailey

Posted on 12/09/2014 by shellbellereads

Presently Perfect

The Perfect Series- Book 3

By Alison G. Bailey

Synopsis

Tweet was my heart, my soul, and my purpose.
She was my…everything.
Neither of us were perfect. We both made mistakes. Looking back, that was okay, because every choice brought us to where we needed to be at the time we needed to be there.
The one constant… our love and friendship.
There are two sides to every story and I wouldn’t trade our sides for anything in the world.

Buy: Amazon

Robin’s Review

***If you have not read Present Perfect, this review will contain spoilers. ***

Back in August of 2013, I read Present Perfect after noticing it available for purchase on Amazon. This debut novel from Alison G. Bailey was so special for me that I named it one of my two favorite stand-alone novels of 2013. At the time, I was unaware the author would be expanding this novel into a series. Present Perfect is full of angst. It’s a friends to lovers story about Amanda Kelly (Tweet) and Noah Stewart. Bailey followed up Present Perfect with Past Imperfect, a novel about Brad Johnson, a secondary character from Present Perfect. Much to my surprise, earlier this year, I discovered Bailey was writing an alternate point of view novel about Noah and Tweet to finish out her Perfect series!

Present Perfect is told from Amanda’s point of view. In Present Perfect, we learn Amanda is consumed by feelings of worthlessness. Because she is obsessed with being perfect, she struggles to control every aspect of her life. Although Amanda is constantly plagued by insecurity and self-doubt, the one thing she is absolutely sure of is her love for Noah. Noah has always been a part of her life. He is her best friend, and she can’t imagine a life without him. But her feelings for Noah are changing. If she begins a romantic relationship with Noah, she fears that she will lose him. What if it ends badly? She questions how they could possibly remain in each other’s lives.

With Presently Perfect, we are now able to experience their story from Noah’s point of view. Presently Perfect is the ideal blend of new written material and scenes from Present Perfect that have now been written from an alternate point of view. Although we essentially have the same story, the content of this new novel adds so much depth to Tweet’s perception of events.

I remember when I read Present Perfect. I struggled to understand Noah’s motivations for his actions. What was he thinking when Tweet was pushing him away? Did he truly understand her struggle? Why did Noah make the choices that he did in Present Perfect? Was Noah considering Tweet’s feelings while he was dating other girls? I found it very interesting to learn the truth behind his relationships with Brittani in high school and Brooke in college.

The very best part of Presently Perfect is the new material found towards the end of the novel. There is now so much more to Noah and Tweet’s story. I cried tears while I was reading what happens between Noah and Tweet (beyond the end of the first novel). And I think Alison Bailey wrote the perfect epilogue for her series! I love this couple’s story. I really do. I have anticipated the release of Presently Perfect for several months, and I am excited to say this novel met my expectations! I am giving Presently Perfect a 4.5 star rating!

Author Bio:

Alison was born and raised in Charleston, SC. She attended Winthrop University and graduated with a major in Theater. While at school she began writing one-act plays, which she later produced. Her debut novel, Present Perfect, landed on Amazon’s Best Seller List and appeared on many “Best Reads of 2013” Book Blogs. The novel won Best Book at the 2014 Indie Romance Convention Awards. The second book from The Perfect series, Past Imperfect, was published in February of 2014 and hit many Top 100 category lists on Amazon

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Holiday Review: Santa’s Secret by Serenity Woods

Posted on 12/08/2014 by shellbellereads

Santa’s Secret

A Holiday Romance

By Serenity Woods

Synopsis

Will the magic still be there when they wake on Christmas morning?
Having long since lost his Christmas spirit, Rudi comes to Santa’s Secret Village looking to sell the resort. His seven-year-old daughter already knows the truth about Santa, and neither of them is particularly in the mood for the festive season.

Practically a recluse since the death of her husband, Eva’s not looking for romance. Her trip to Santa’s Village is for the sole purpose of making Christmas more festive this year for her young son. But Eva brings an unexpected sparkle to Rudi and Isabel’s lives that renews their belief in the spirit of Christmas.

As the weather grows colder, things heat up between Rudi and Eva. But will the magic still be there when they wake on Christmas morning?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Santa’s Secret by Serenity Woods had all the holiday magic readers crave during the holiday season. This book captured the joys of Christmas, the innocence of a child’s heart, and the gift of love. It had an international theme that showcased some different holiday customs on the European Side.

Two single parents, two adorable children, two lonely hearts, one magical christmas village, and the magic of Christmas will warm your heart. We will watch the children teach their parents the wonders of Christmas. Two lonely people will find a love they thought they could never experience again. Four people will become a family on this very special holiday.

I loved everything about this holiday book. It was well written and flowed with ease. The love scenes were sizzling hot and the emotional scenes were well played. The characters captured the readers heart. It warmed my heart and make me feel the holiday magic.

Read Santa’s Secret for a special holiday experience.

Author Bio:

Serenity Woods writes contemporary romances with both heat and heart, often set in the sub-tropical Northland of New Zealand, where she lives.

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Holiday Feature + Giveaway : Merry Christmas, Baby by Jill Shalvis and All I Want For Christmas Is You by Jessica Scott

Posted on 12/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Merry Christmas, Baby

By Jill Shalvis

A Lucky Harbor Holiday Novella -Book 12.5

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Synopsis

SEASON’S KISSES . . .
Wild child Chloe Thompson can’t believe how much things have changed. She still can’t get enough of her sexy husband Sawyer, but he seems to prefer working to impending fatherhood. So tonight, a very pregnant Chloe is escaping her troubles at the town Christmas party.

Sheriff Sawyer Thompson hopes surprising Chloe at the party will give him a chance to set things right. But as the snow begins to fall and the wind rages, he wonders whether he can make it back in time. While mother nature conspires to keep Sawyer and Chloe apart, an unexpected arrival will require them to kiss and make up . . . and ring in the happiest holiday Lucky Harbor has ever seen.

Tracey’s Review

Chloe Thompson knows that she’s been less than easy to live with lately, but, heck, being nine months pregnant should get a girl a pass, right? Then there’s the fact that things between her and her hunky husband Sawyer seems to be less loving than usual, and that he’s gone more than he’s around, making Chloe wonder how he really feels about the impending arrival of their ‘Bean.’

MERRY CHRISTMAS, BABY was my first experience with reading one of Jill Shalvis’ books, and, so, my first introduction to Lucky Harbor. This was a novella, so was very short, but Jill was able to pack a lot of entertainment into it. I love a smalltown romance, and the folks of Lucky Harbor just make the homey feel more evident. Jill’s characters are great; all of them are so unique, with their own quirks and personalities, and, with snappy dialogue and a holiday theme, it was fun to see them interact with each other. My only wish is that I’d read the whole series first, so that I knew more about who everyone is, because I have a feeling that I’d have been in love with them, and with Lucky Harbor, long before now. I recommend this sweet, sexy, and sassy little holiday read for anyone. While it is not necessary to have read the other books first, I do suggest that it may not be a bad idea, but it is completely enjoyable either way.

All I Want For Christmas Is You

A Coming Home Holiday Novella – Book 5.5

By Jessica Scott

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / I Tunes

Synopsis

From USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Scott comes an all new novella about a woman who came back from war changed and the man who loves her enough not to let her go.

All Major Patrick MacLean wanted was Christmas with the woman and child who were his family in everything but name. But Captain Samantha Egan has come back from the war a different woman than the one who left – and she doesn’t know if she can love him anymore.

But neither of them counted on the determination of a little girl they both call daughter and if Natalie has her wish, her parents may have no idea what’s coming for them. It’s going to take Christmas miracle to bring these two wounded warriors back from the edge of a broken heart.

This story has been featured in Home For Christmas: A Holiday Duet with JoAnn Ross.

Michel’s Review

Wow! All I Want For Christmas by Jessica Scott packed a powerful punch! I cannot believe a novella could be this powerful and dig so deeply into my emotions. The story was beautifully written. Jessica Scott illustrated a very honest glimpse into the lives of those that serve in the Armed Forces. Their sense of “normal ” life is a completely different definition than most average Americans. They have chosen a career that serves and protects. Their jobs are 24/7. They sacrifice their personal and family lives to perform their jobs so that we can have peace in our own personal lives. There isn’t down time when deployed. There isn’t weekends off or nights to unwind. Their sense of normal changes completely, from sleeping arrangements or use of the facilities. It is not a resort vacation or an exclusive campground. It is a wartime arena that is dictated by their surroundings at every moment. Danger is a constant threat. Lives are lost, lives are broken, and lives are saved. No wonder is so difficult for the soldiers to return home and try to blend into our sense of “normal”.

All I Want For Christmas Is You is about a military career couple. They are not married but have been together for years. They have an eight year old daughter and a strong loving relationship. With both of them being in the military , they have deployed at different times so that one parent is always home with their daughter. Their last deployments have caused this couple to have a two year separation. Not only that, Samantha has returned home with some very serious PSTD issues. She is disconnected with the normal world, disconnected from those she loves, and emotionally numb. Rather than reaching out for help, she leaves with the intent of ending her relationship with Patrick.

Patrick is determined to save his family and save the woman he loves. He understands what she is dealing with. Through love, patience, complete honesty, insight into his own war experiences, and guidance in getting the right kind of help, Patrick will show Samantha that there is more to their “normal” life than she realizes. She is worth fixing.

The love they have for each other and the love for their daughter Natalie is all that matters.

This story was beautifully written and very emotional. It is the perfect holiday book that will validate and honor the lives we live. The men and woman have sacrificed their own personal lives to allow all of us to have Happy Holidays. They deserve them too!

Jessica Scott has once again wowed me with her writing and sensitivity to powerful issues.

Read This Book!

$100 American Express Gift Card

Holiday Novellas

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Holiday Review: Home For Christmas by Fiona Greene

Posted on 12/03/2014 by shellbellereads

Home For Christmas

By Fiona Greene

Synopsis

What began as an impersonal-but-cheerful holiday gift for a soldier far from home becomes so much more…

Sergeant Tate McAuliffe, stationed in Afghanistan, opens his Christmas care package from Australia and is stunned by both its contents and the sender.

Fun-loving Christmas tree designer Layla Preston is a breath of fresh air for loner Tate. Although they’ve never met, their email friendship quickly develops and their feelings for each other deepen.

But Layla knows the heartache that loving a soldier can bring and when Tate is injured, her deep-seated fear drives them apart. With their relationship in tatters, can Layla and Tate work through their differences, so Layla can welcome Tate home for Christmas?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tina’s Review

*** Provided by Netgalley in exchange for an Honest Review. ***

To say Sergeant Tate McAuliffe has had some crappy Christmases in his past would be an understatement and why should this year be any different? Stationed in Afghanistan, he’s taken by surprise by the gift he receives from a stranger.
Layla Preston lives in Australia and follows the troops’ mission in Afghanistan. She comes from a military family, but they are all gone now. Inherited from her dad, she has Bonsai Christmas, a tree farm her father purchased after retiring from the military.

This IS an Australian novella, some terminology translations may be helpful:
Ute= Utility Vehicle, Thong= flip flops, Esky= cooler, RSL= Returned and Services League (support organization for the ADF (Australian Defence Force)), doona= quilt or blanket

Short Holiday novella: under 100 pages. Stands alone.
Tate really is portrays as a broken spirit when it comes to family and holiday reunions, preferring his fellow soldiers to blood family. Layla is like an angel in spirit. She breathes life and vitality to all with her kindness and generosity. There’s a nice blend of secondary characters that help support the story. Believable dialogue and interaction enable the dynamic and dramatic plot to flow smoothly and swiftly. There was enough push and pull in the story line to create some conflict, although it was nothing of epic proportions, and a pleasant enough resolve was found. Predictability was blissfully low. The conclusion was solid and without cliffhangers. Overall, this was a very enjoyable read.

Author Bio:

I love books.

As a child we didn’t live near a library until one opened when I was nine. I was in heaven, then we moved and I traded my library card for one for a mobile library that visited the local shops. Ten months later, we moved again. This time to an older house on stilts with a dark and scary ground floor. Exploring the depths, I discovered a cupboard and stored inside were boxes and boxes of romance novels.

My early love of category romance morphed into a passion for historicals, romantic suspense and futuristic romance. In an attempt to widen my reading preferences, I still visit the library regularly, but choose all my books by the spine, without reading the back cover. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t.

My books and short stories range from journeys across time and space – futuristic and sci-fi romances to contemporary romance. After all, what’s not to love about a strong military leader with a spacecraft? Unless its a sexy farmer with a Ute?

A lot of my pre-writing is done while I’m pounding the pavement – either running or walking the family’s two large dogs. I’m always up for a challenge, so I split my time between my home town of Brisbane and an owner-builder project on a rural property in Queensland’s Southern Downs, where the air is crisp and clear and the view of the night sky is to die for.

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Holiday Review: Yours For Christmas by Susan Mallery- Fools Gold Series- Book 15.5

Posted on 12/03/2014 by shellbellereads

Yours For Christmas

Fool’s Gold Series- Book 15.5

By Susan Mallery

Synopsis

Step out of the winter chill and into the warmth of Fool’s Gold, California, the charming small-town setting for a new holiday novella from New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery

Famous former NFL stars don’t date single working moms like Bailey Voss. She’ll allow herself to daydream about Kenny Scott’s muscles and killer smile, but wanting more would lead to post-holiday regret. Then Kenny volunteers to run a toy drive with Bailey, and she learns that he’s not just hot…he’s also generous, funny, nice. The whole package—tantalizingly out of reach.

The ache of past loss reminds Kenny why he needs to avoid getting too close to anyone. Especially to a gorgeous redhead and her adorable little girl. Mess it up, and he’d lose them both. Yet Kenny can only resist Bailey for so long. And as festive spirit spreads throughout the town, he’s all wrapped up in Bailey’s sweet, sexy kisses and determined to make this the first of many Christmases together…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

The good things about novellas: They’re short and sweet, they offer a chance for readers to have their author ‘fix’ between bigger books, and they can focus on just a few characters. On the other hand, because they’re so short, they tend to move relatively quickly, and there’s less time for a meaty storyline to develop.

YOURS FOR CHRISTMAS, a novella in Susan Mallery’s Fool’s Gold series, is a sweet story, focusing on widowed mother Bailey Voss and former NFL player Kenny Scott. Bailey, mom to sweet little Chloe, has had a mad crush on Kenny forever. When the two are tapped to head up a Christmas charity event, they begin spending a lot of time together, and feelings deeper than friendship emerge on both sides. The trouble, though, is that Kenny has a rule: he doesn’t date women with children, ever. He’s been badly burned, and is unwilling to have his heart broken again, no matter how much he likes Bailey.

I liked this story, and didn’t feel like I needed to have read previous books in the series to enjoy it. I’m a sucker for stories about small town and community, and Susan has given us just that in the Fool’s Gold books. Her characters are real and likeable, and, while I wanted to pinch Kenny a couple of times, I totally bought the relationship between him and Bailey. Again, this is a novella, so things go a little more quickly than might seem completely realistic, but, heck, this is love, and it’s Christmas, so just go with it. I’m giving this four sweet and sexy stars, and am looking forward to getting to know more about the residents of Fool’s Gold, California.

Author Bio:

With more than 25 million books sold worldwide, New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery is known for creating characters who feel as real as the folks next door, and for putting them into emotional, often funny situations readers recognize from their own lives. Susan’s books have made Booklist’s Top 10 Romances list in four out of five consecutive years. RT Book Reviews says, “When it comes to heartfelt contemporary romance, Mallery is in a class by herself.” With her popular, ongoing Fool’s Gold series, Susan has reached new heights on the bestsellers lists and has won the hearts of countless new fans.

Susan grew up in southern California, moved so many times that her friends stopped writing her address in pen, and now has settled in Seattle with her husband and the most delightfully spoiled little dog who ever lived.

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Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

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Holiday Review: Holding Holly by Julie Brannagh- Love and Football Series- Book 4.5- A Holiday Novella

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Holiday Feature + Giveaway : Merry Christmas, Baby by Jill Shalvis and All I Want For Christmas Is You by Jessica Scott

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Holiday Review: Yours For Christmas by Susan Mallery- Fools Gold Series- Book 15.5

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