Audiobook Review – First & Goal: Queen of the League by Laura Chapman

 

When Harper Duquaine’s no-nonsense approach to work unintentionally ruffles the wrong feathers at her new job, she joins her co-workers’ fantasy football league to prove she can hang with the guys. Only problem: she doesn’t know a sleeper from a keeper (or any of the other lingo thrown her way).

Embroiled in a world of lineups, stats, and trades, Harper’s quest to make nice topples when her competitive streak emerges. And her promise to herself that she’ll be a strong, independent woman and leave the drama and heartache behind is seriously tested when she catches the attention of her two biggest competitors: J.J., a local celebrity determined to win a fantasy championship, and Brook, the mild-mannered coach who seems too good to be true. Both threaten her resolve to remain single… and, more importantly, her chances at winning the prize pool.

With a slew of conflicting advice in her real and fantasy worlds, Harper must figure out how to play the game and come out a winner.

Amazon Kindle     Amazon Paperback     Audible     iBooks

 

BFF K’s Review of First & Goal: Queen of the League

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I loved this book! I was fortunate to receive a code for the audiobook version. And I was delighted and charmed from the beginning to the end.

Harper is positively irresistible! She is smart, hard-working, sassy, quirky, and absolutely hilarious. (Though I’m not sure she always intends to be so funny.) In an attempt to win over some of her coworkers and distract them from her super-organized, workaholic tendencies; she spontaneously agrees to join their fantasy football league. The trials and tribulations of her weekly fantasy match-ups are comical!

 

With the new league, her social circle expands significantly. Enter Brook. Multi-time league champion, high school football coach, and hunky, sweet, specimen-of-a-man; Brook is a dream! And Brooke and Harper soon find themselves in a budding relationship that exists both inside and outside of the league.

 

This book made me laugh out loud. There were several parts that had me in tears – and not the sad kind. First & Goal: Queen of the League is smart, sassy, funny and romantic. The book is set in Lincoln, Nebraska. It was so much fun reading about characters in a setting that I know so well. Lincoln is a sports town, especially for football. And it provided the perfect backdrop for this story. The football parts of the story are smartly written but can be enjoyed by a football pro or rookie. And, if you or anyone you know has ever participated in Fantasy Football, you will really get a kick out of this!

 

First & Goal: Queen of the League is one of my favorite books from this year. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire thing from start to finish. If you are looking for a sports romance, with great characters and LOL-moments, this one will definitely deliver.

 

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An advance copy of this book was received from the author via Audiobook Boom. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.
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Amazon Kindle Preview

About the Author

Laura Chapman is the author of First & Goal, Going for Two, Three & Out, and The Marrying Type. A native Nebraskan, she loves football, Netflix marathons, and her cats, Jane and Bingley. Connect with her online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube and on her website at www.laurachapmanbooks.com.

 

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Audiobook Review – FU Cancer by Hilaria Alexander

Title: FU Cancer
Author: Hilaria Alexander
Narrator: Elizabeth Klett
Length: 10 hrs and 44 mins
Release Date: Nov 24, 2016
 

Lucy has always been a good girl. The most hardcore thing she’s done in her life was falling for a divorced man 10 years her senior.

But he was the love of her life, and she married him. When her Peter Pan of a husband decided to divorce her, she thought it was her chance to start anew. That was until she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Besides looking like Britney circa 2007, she is taking it well, real well. You might see her walk around the hospital during chemo sessions with bright colored wigs and outrageous t-shirts that seem to shock the most conservative employees. One of them reads FU CANCER.

 

 

 

BFF K’s Review of FU Cancer

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Who would have ever imagined that a book with the title, “FU Cancer” would be so funny and so full of hope? Because of my aversion to angst, I had avoided this book though it came highly recommended during its original release. When I was offered the opportunity to review the audio, I took it and I’m so glad I did. This book was nothing like I had imagined it might be.

I put myself in Lucy’s shoes quite often as I listened. I imagined what life would be like for me if I was in Lucy’s position. Would I handle a cancer diagnosis with the same grace and style (best wigs and t-shirts ever) that she did? (I hope that I would and I also hope that I never find out.) Lucy’s world is rocked as the recent divorcee begins treatment for breast cancer. But, she’s soon caught off guard by the most beautiful man who is drawn to her for reasons she can’t understand. Their relationship is tested by life and her disease. They must determine if what they feel for one another is real and strong enough to go the distance.

Cancer is essentially one of the main characters in the story, but it is not the sole defining element. Working through the diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer with Lucy is scary and a little sad, but it is also uplifting and joyful. I wondered how you could find romance in a story of a young cancer patient undergoing treatment. But, this book is full of romance and love. I think this is a storyline that will be in the back of my mind for quite some time. If you’re looking for an emotional read that packs a powerful, positive, thought-provoking punch, I highly recommend, FU Cancer.

AND, Elizabeth Klett does a commendable job as the narrator. I think this might be the first audio I’ve listened to with her narrations, but I will definitely seek out more! There are so many great reasons to read FU Cancer, be sure to add it to your TBR/TBL (To Be Listened to) today!

 

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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About the Author

 

Hello! I’m the author of Prude, This Love and FU Cancer.  I was born and raised in Italy but now I live in Oklahoma City with my husband and kids. I love traveling and I’m a self-proclaimed concert addict. If you have questions about me or my books, ask me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

 

 

 

Audiobook Review – Jed Had to Die by Tara Sivec

 

The happiest day of Payton Lambert’s life was the day she graduated high school and watched Bald Knob, Kentucky, get smaller and smaller in her rearview mirror. She wanted more for her life than a tiny town where everyone knows your business and you can’t find a decent cup of coffee for at least 40 miles. Twelve years later an unexpected phone call in the middle of the night has her packing up her life in Chicago and racing back home to the one person she ever regretted leaving behind.

Upon her return she sees that Leo Hudson, the scrawny boy who had followed Payton around like a puppy and could recite cow insemination facts in his sleep, is long gone. Leo is still hot on her heels, but now he’s wearing a sheriff badge and dead set on solving a murder that may or may not involve Payton, along with half the town. In a town where the biggest crime happened the day someone kicked a few of his cows, people are pointing fingers, rumors are spreading like wildfire, and Payton swears she’s only making out with the sweet-talking, studly sheriff to distract him from the secrets she’s keeping.

When you’ve been tased, peed on by a yippy dog named Bo Jangles, and can’t stop picturing what Sheriff Hudson looks like naked, it will be a tough job making everyone agree that Jed had to die.

 

Audible        Amazon Kindle        Amazon Paperback

 

BFF K’s Review of Jed Had To Die

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I LOVE Jed Had to Die so much! It is clever, unique, sarcastic and LOL-funny! And I don’t use LOL as a throw-away-term, this book honestly had me laughing so long and so loud that I would have to stop and rewind the audio!

When Payton Lambert comes to the aid of her childhood BFF Emma Jo, that means stepping back into the town she’s been avoiding for YEARS. It seems Emma Jo has been in a horrible marriage. Payton had no idea, but will now do everything in her power to make sure that it is over. The two have a heart-warming friendship. Then there’s super-sweet and swoony Leo….he’s charming and delightful. Bald Knob is full of quirky and kooky characters. They can judge their own folks, but you’d better not! They are a devoted bunch who come together to stand by one another.

I have long loved the Dixie Chicks song, Earl Had to Die. Imagine the premise behind that song (below in case you can’t remember) expanded to include full characters, backstory, a new romance and a little mystery. You’ll be humming this chorus for days, but soon find that “Jed” replaces “Earl”!

I think everyone needs bits of this story in their own lives: a friendship like Payton and Emma Jo, a love like Leo, a town like Bald Knob and a little Liquid Crack! If you want a story that is absolutely hilarious, engaging and delightful, Jed Had to Die is PERFECTION!

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This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

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Earl Had to Die by the Dixie Chicks

(In case, like me, you’ve forgotten how truly awesome this is!)

About the Author

Tara Sivec is a USA Today best-selling author, wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, short-order cook, baby-sitter, and sarcasm expert. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two children and looks forward to the day when all three of them become adults and move out.

After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader’s Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader’s Choice Awards 2014.

In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she’ll do and naps she’ll take when she ever gets spare time.

 

Review – After We Fall by Melanie Harlow

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After We Fall by Melanie Harlow
Publication Date: November 28th, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Jack Valentini isn’t my type.

Sexy, brooding cowboys are fine in the movies, but in real life, I prefer a suit and tie. Proper manners. A close shave.

Jack might be gorgeous, but he’s also scruffy, rugged, and rude. He wants nothing to do with a “rich city girl” like me, and he isn’t afraid to say so.

But I’ve got a PR job to do for his family’s farm, so he’s stuck with me for ten days, and I’m stuck with him. His glares. His moods. His tight jeans. His muscles.

His huge, hard muscles.

Pretty soon there’s a whole different kind of tension between us, the kind that has me misbehaving in barns, trees, and pickup trucks. I’ve never done anything so out of character—but it feels too good to stop.

And the more I learn about the grieving ex-Army sergeant, the better I understand him. Losing his wife three years ago left him broken and bitter and blaming himself. He doesn’t think he deserves a second chance at happiness.

But he’s wrong.

I don’t need to be his first love. If only he’d let me be his last.

“Second chances are not given to make things right, but are given to prove that we could be even better after we fall.” —Unknown

BFF K’s Review of After We Fall

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After We Fall is a touching, emotional, well-developed story of loss and love, finding your true self, and having a second chance at a Happily Ever After.

Jack Valentini is damaged. He is sullen, grouchy, and set in his ways. All of those traits hide a man who is achingly damaged. Both a soldier and a widower he truly believes himself unworthy of a second chance at happiness.

Margot is the picture perfect upper crust, trust-fund-daughter. Though she desperately wants to find a life that is uniquely hers and more impactful than the checks she writes and the fundraisers she attends.

Margot goes to help Jack’s family with their business but finds that she really wants to help Jack himself. Their relationship is flirty and sweet while at the same time passionate and disruptive.

After We Fall contains the signature emotions and the steam that I expect from a Melanie Harlow novel. This book elicited more tears than I usually have when reading one of her stories, but it is not a bad thing. The book was emotional and really fantastic! I highly recommend this touching, romantic, character-driven story about taking a second chance at Happily Ever After.

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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Excerpt

“Wow,” she said, shutting the screen door behind her. “That was close. Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome.” I crossed my arms, wishing I’d thought to grab a shirt. “Want to tell me what you were doing out there?”

Her cheeks colored. “Um, I was taking a run.”

“Up a tree?”

She laughed nervously. “No. Well, I didn’t start out in a tree. That happened later.”

I cocked my head, unable to resist giving her a hard time. Not so sure of yourself now, are you, Barbie? “Oh yeah?”

“Yes. See, I left the cottage I’m renting without using the bathroom by mistake,” she began, twisting her fingers together, “and I was planning on running a loop around the farm, but it’s bigger than I thought.”

“Ah. So you were looking for a bathroom in the woods?”

“Well, yes.” She swallowed. “Sort of. But then I heard a splash and saw you…” Her cheeks were practically purple now.

I played dumb. “Saw me what?”

“Saw you naked, OK?” she blurted, throwing her hands up. “I admit it—I saw you naked.”

I had no hangups about nudity, but I was damn serious about my privacy, and about people sneaking up on me. But her embarrassment was funny. The two times I’d seen her before, she’d been so polished and poised. It felt good to put her in her place a little. “So you climbed a tree for a better view, is that it?”

Bowing her head, she dragged the toe of one shoe across the wood planks of the porch floor. “Something like that.” Then she looked up at me. Took a breath. “I’m really sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. I was—I mean, I got—I couldn’t—” She sighed, briefly closing her eyes. “I have no excuse. Will you accept my apology?”

She was prettier without makeup, I decided. And the way she wore her hair off her face emphasized the wideness of her eyes, the angle of her cheekbones, the arch of her brows. Her lips didn’t need all that glossy crap, either. They were a perfect rosy pink, and I wondered if they’d feel as soft as they looked.

Fuck. I hadn’t kissed anyone in three years.

Clearing my throat, I took a step back. “Yeah. It’s fine.” Now get out of here.

She didn’t move. “So you’re not going to fire me?”

“I never hired you.”

“I know. But I really want this job. I think I can help, Jack. I know I can.”

“Suit yourself. I want nothing to do with it.” My name on her lips was trouble. Needing some distance from her, I started walking toward the dock to get my shoes and socks, but she followed me. God, she was a pest. It reminded me of the way Steph used to tag along after the boys when we were kids, wanting to get in our games.

“Are you going to be like this the entire time I’m here?” she asked.

“Like what?”

“Moody and uncooperative?”

“Probably.”

“Why? Do you hate me that much?”

“I don’t hate anybody. I just don’t see why we should pay some city girl who’s never set foot on a farm to advise us.” We reached the dock, and I leaned down to get my stuff.

“I’m not even asking to be paid, so piss off!” she shouted, her voice carrying on the water.

I straightened. “Oh, you’re working for free?”

“Yes!”

“Then you’re an idiot. Or so rich you don’t need the money.”

“I’m not an idiot,” she said through clenched teeth.

“So you’re rich, then.” I don’t know why I was being such an asshole. But for some reason, I did not want to let her see another side of me, or see another side to her. “I should have guessed.”

She crossed her arms. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means you look like you’ve led a charmed life. Like you’ve had everything you’ve ever wanted handed to you. Like you’ve never gotten your hands dirty.”

“So get them dirty.”

I almost fell off the dock. “What?”

“Get them dirty. Teach me about working this farm. I want to learn.”

Was she serious? The last thing I needed was to drag her ass around all day, explaining things. Or stare at her ass all day, imagining things. But one look at her defiant face and I shook my head. “Why do I feel like if I say no, you’ll just keep bothering me?”

She smiled and clasped her hands behind her back, rocking forward on her toes. “Because I will. I don’t like being told no.”

“Of course you don’t.” Jesus, she was trouble. A bad apple—smooth and shiny on the outside, spoiled rotten on the inside. But for no good reason, I found myself giving in. “Fine. Go change your clothes.”

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Purchase Links:

Amazon US      Amazon UK     iBooks     Nook

About the Author

Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like VEEP, Game of Thrones, House of Cards, and Homeland. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, the FRENCHED series, and the sexy historical SPEAK EASY duet, set in the 1920s. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.

Connect with Melanie

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMelanieHarlow/?fref=ts
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1NPkYKs
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1TkpDqF
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MelanieHarlow2
Website: http://www.melanieharlow.com
Newsletter: http://www.melanieharlow.com/contact/

Review – One Snowy Night by Jill Shalvis

Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay 
with a fun and festive holiday novella!
ONE SNOWY NIGHT
Heartbreaker Bay #2.5
Jill Shalvis
Releasing Nov 8th, 2016

 

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay with a fun and festive holiday novella!
It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south.

 

They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last.


BFF K’s Review of One Snowy Night

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One Snowy Night is a delightful, charming story that is perfect for the holiday season! It’s a quick read (or listen) that is full of heart and Christmas Spirit!

Rory and Max have a history and it’s one that dates way before the time they bumped into one another in San Francisco. Horrible memories of High School plague them both. But a quick trip back to memory lane (their old home town) will reveal a few hidden secrets.

This little novella plays out like the perfect Hallmark Christmas Movie (so you know I’ve got to love it!) If you’re looking for a sweet, heartwarming, romantic, holiday-love-story, One Snowy Night is the perfect gift to buy yourself! And, if you’re too swamped to read, purchase the terrific audio and enjoy it while you’re wrapping all the presents!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Giveaway

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About the Author



New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental.Look for Jill’s latest, SWEET LITTLE LIES on shelves and e-readers now, and get all her bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold.Visit Jill’s website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
 

 

Review – Better Love by Daisy Prescott

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BETTER LOVE by Daisy Prescott (Wingmen, #4)

ADD BETTER LOVE TO GOODREADS

 

Maybe that old song got it right.

Maybe love can be better the second time around.

When one of my wingmen needs help, I’ll do anything for him, including calling in a favor with the one person I swore I’d never speak to again.

Not after I walked away from that life five years ago and ditched the trappings of my success. The keyword being trap.

I left it all behind.

Including her.

Now the ambitious, brilliant, talented, and undeniably beautiful Roslyn Porter is back in my life. I’m not the same person she knew. I’m trying to be a better man.

No man is an island, but Dan Ashland comes close. He’s content with his quiet life on Whidbey, a world away from the rat race on the other side of the ferry.

Dan has three great loves in his life: solitude, pizza, and Roslyn Porter.

Better Love is a standalone second chance romance featuring Dan Ashland and the fourth book in the Wingmen series.

 

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PURCHASE BETTER LOVE NOW

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | B&N

BFF K’s Review of Better Love

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I’m torn between telling everyone to read this book and wanting to keep Dan The Pizza Man all to myself! Dan Ashland is my new #1 Book Boyfriend and it’s going to take a lot to kick this silver fox out of his special place in the den!

Better Love is the fourth book in the Wingmen Series from Daisy Prescott, but can be fully enjoyed as a standalone. Though, I’m not sure why you wouldn’t read the other 3 books ASAP if you haven’t already. I thought that Tom Cat Donnely was my favorite hero in the series, but Dan just skateboarded right past Tom and straight into my heart!

This is a warm and wonderful second chance love story centered around two exceptional characters. I love the fact that this story focuses on main characters with age and experiences I can relate to. But, the story is still fresh and interesting and full of heart. I love Daisy Prescott’s writing! Her witty banter and dialogue are always fun and engaging. Each of her stories is sprinkled with a little bit of pop culture and more than a few scenes that will make you giggle out loud!

Better Love is my most favorite kind of book: smart, funny, endearing, quirky, and sweet. It is full of butterfly-inducing romance and more than a couple steamy scenes. But, again, the very best part of this book is Dan. I can’t wait for more books in the series so that I can check back in with Dan and Ros! This book is in the top of my 2016 Besties list and it is absolutely one you don’t want to miss! Get some Better Love in your life TODAY!

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An advance copy of this book was received from the author. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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PREVIOUS BOOKS IN THE SERIES

READYTOFALL_FREE

Get READY TO FALL (Wingmen #1) for FREE!

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | B&N

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CONFESSIONS OF A REFORMED TOM CAT (Wingmen, #2)

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | B&N

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ANYTHING BUT LOVE (Wingmen, #3)

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | B&N

 

About the Author

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USA Today Bestselling Author Daisy Prescott writes romantic comedies about real love.

Her Modern Love Stories feature characters in their thirties and forties finding and rediscovering love in unexpected and humorous ways. Her Wingmen books star regular guys who often have beards, drive trucks, and love deeply once they fall.

Born and raised in San Diego, Daisy currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with her husband and an imaginary house goat. When not writing about herself in the third person, Daisy can be found traveling, gardening, baking, or lost in a good book.

To learn more about Daisy and her writing, sign up for her mailing list here (copy and paste this link): http://smarturl.it/daisysignup . Send her an email at: daisyauthor AT gmail DOT com Or chat with her on Twitter (@daisy_prescott) and Facebook: /daisyprescottauthorpage, and follow her on Instagram: /daisyprescott

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Review – Beard Science by Penny Reid

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Beard Science

by Penny Reid
Winston Brothers #3
Publication Date: October 11, 2016
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Humor, Romance

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Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Google Play | Smashwords

Make a deal with the devil and you might get what you want, but will it be what you need?

Jennifer Sylvester wants one thing, and that one thing is NOT to be Tennessee’s reigning Banana Cake Queen. Ever the perpetual good girl and obedient daughter, Jennifer is buckling under the weight of her social media celebrity, her mother’s ambitions, and her father’s puritanical mandates. Jennifer is officially desperate.

And desperate times call for Cletus Winston.

Cletus Winston is a puzzle wrapped in a mystery covered in conundrum sauce, and now he’s in a pickle. Despite being convinced of his own omniscience, extortion by the exalted Banana Cake Queen of Green Valley has taken him completely by surprise. So… what’s a maniacal mastermind to do?

Likely, the last thing you expect.

‘Beard Science’ is the third book in the Winston Brothers series, is a full-length romantic comedy novel, and can be read as a standalone.

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BFF K’s Review of Beard Science

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I first must say that I’ve never read a Penny Reid book I didn’t LOVE. And, Beard Science ranks near the top of my list of “Favorite Penny Reid Books!” If you’ve followed the Winston Brothers Series, you may have wondered, like me, how Reid could turn the odd-ball, scruffy, philosopher into a romance Hero. But, any possible doubts were soon put to rest at a glimpse into the complicated mind of Cletus Winston. I absolutely adore this character! And, he has found his perfect match in Jennifer Sylvester, The Banana Cake Queen.

Penny Reid has a way of writing quirky, odd-ball, weird characters that absolutely make you fall in love with them and their stories. Cletus and Jennifer epitomize this exceptional talent. I would read volumes of books with characters as rich and wonderful as these.

I have highlighted passage after passage of wonderful quotes and I’m already trying to figure out how I can make time for a re-read. (And I NEVER do that!) If you want a wonderful romance with heart-felt, truly authentic, charming and delightful characters, Beard Science is not to be missed. Please give yourself a gift and one-click this book today!

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An advance copy of this book was received from the author. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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BFF K Favorite Quote

 

Excerpt from Beard Science

“So Cletus told me I needed to change one thing every day. He wasn’t specific about what I should change, just that I should decide on the one thing myself.”

Billy nodded.

I continued. “At first I didn’t see the purpose, but—do you know?—Cletus was right. Something as trivial as paining my nails a different color made me feel like I could do anything I set my mind to.”

Billy smiled.

I continued. “Cletus also said-”

Billy cleared his throat. “Do you go to the jam session much? I think I’ve only seen you here a handful of times.”

“I don’t, actually. I’d like to, but Saturdays are busy. I’m usually making special orders on Friday night. I’ve heard you sing a few times, though. You should do it more often, you have such a nice voice.”

Billy smiled again, his eyes sliding to me then away. “Thank you.”

“And Cletus is amazing on the banjo. Last year he did a folksy version of Thriller, during Halloween. It was spectacular.”

Billy sighed.
 

Conversation was surprisingly easy with Billy Winston, once I stopped being afraid of saying the wrong thing. Instead of worrying, I just said whatever I wanted. He wasn’t a big talker, other than asking me questions, so I filled the silence. Sometimes what I said made him laugh. Sometimes it made him nod. Sometimes it made him cough.

But usually whatever I said made him smile. And that was nice. He was nice.

He pulled his truck into the community center lot and it was clear the jam session was already in full swing. The evening was chilly, so folks were dressed in coats.

I pulled my shawl over my shoulders and Billy opened my door, helping me from the car. I slipped my fingers back into the crook of his elbow while trying to suppress a new, and more powerful, flutter of excitement as we approached the community center.

I wondered if Cletus would be there. I wondered what he would think of my dress, and my hair in a bun, and my purposefully minimal makeup, and my nail polish. Even though I was nervous, I grinned at the thought.

“What are you smiling about?” Billy asked, giving me the side eye.

“I’m nervous,” I answered honestly, feeling breathless, then asked before I could catch myself, “Do you think Cletus is here?”

Billy’s mouth tugged to the side and he studied my face. “I’m sure he is. Why?”

“I wonder what he’ll think of my dress,” I admitted excitedly.

Billy chuckled and shook his head.

“What? What is it?” I pressed, searching his profile for a sign as to why he was laughing.

He pulled us to a stop and faced me. “Since this is a practice date, do you want me to give you a tip?”

I nodded eagerly. “Yes, please. All tips are welcome.”

“Okay. Here goes,” he gathered large breath, like he was bracing himself, and said, “When you’re on a date with a man, it’s probably best not to bring up a different man.”

My lips parted as my face fell. “I’m sorry. I keep talking about your brother.”

“No, no. It’s fine.” He reached for my hand and squeezed it. “This is a practice, no need to apologize. I’m not upset. But if this were a real date, you bringing up Cletus and wondering what he’s going to think of your dress would definitely rub me the wrong way. If I’m on a date, I want that woman to be thinking only of me. Does that make sense?”

I nodded, because it did make sense. “Just like, I probably wouldn’t like it—if this were a real date—if you kept bringing up other woman.”

“That’s right.” He moved my hand back to his arm. “You’ll want to keep the conversation about the two of you.”

I considered things as we walked. “Thank you, Billy.”

“For what?” He opened the double door for me, placing his hand on the small of my back to usher me inside. The entryway was full of people, but I hardly noticed them.

“Thanks for doing this, and for the tip. Thanks for sacrificing your Friday night.”

Billy covered my fingers on his arm with his hand. “It’s not a sacrifice, Jennifer.”

“Well, it can’t be pleasant.”

He grinned again and gave me an incredulous look.

“What? What did I do this time? Do you have more tips?” I needed to know. I hoped he filled the whole night with tips, so I would be an expert when the time came for a real date.

Billy’s grin faded as his piercing blue eyes moved over my face. If he’d done this just last week I think I would’ve fainted on the spot, mortified and terrified and assured of my own failure.

But so much had changed in a week. I wasn’t afraid of him anymore. I was changing, becoming braver. So I met his glacial eyes straight on and lifted my eyebrows encouragingly.

“You can tell me, whatever it is,” I whispered earnestly, stepping closer. “Like I said, all tips welcome.”

Finally, he said, “You have no idea how gorgeous you are, do you?”

I gaped at him, because that was not what I’d expected him to say.
 

But before I could recover, a stern voice to my left interjected. “She has no idea whatsoever.”

I turned and found Cletus standing at my shoulder. Startled, I stumbled a step to the side so I could see him better. What I found surprised me.

His jaw was clenched.

His mouth was curved into a frown.

And Cletus’ eyes, a dangerous and fiery blue, were narrowed on his brother.

 

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About The Author

SEX! It all started with sex, between my parents. Personally I don’t like thinking about it, but whatever works for you is a-ok with me. No judgment. The sex happened in California and much of my life also occurred in that state until I moved from the land of nuts (almonds), wine, silicon… boobs, and heavy traffic to the southeast US. Like most writers I like to write, but let’s get back to sex. Eventually I married and gave birth to 2 small people-children (boy-6, girl-4 as of this writing).

By day I’m a biomedical researcher with focus on rare diseases. By night I’m a knitter, sewer, lino block carver, fabric printer, soap maker, and general crafter. By the wee hours of the morning or when I’m intoxicated I love to listen to the voices in my head and let them tell me stories. I hope you enjoy their stories.

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Review – A Place In The Sun by R.S. Grey

Title: A Place in the Sun
Author: R.S. Grey
Release Date: Oct 24, 2016
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When her mother’s incessant matchmaking hits an all-time high, Georgie Archibald does what any sensible woman would do: she flees the country.

Seeking refuge in the picturesque seaside village of Vernazza, Italy, Georgie’s only plan is to lie low, gorge herself on gelato, and let the wine and waves wash her troubles away…that is until she wakes up in a bed that belongs to the most romantic-looking man she’s ever seen.

Gianluca.

After going out of his way to rescue her, the former London financier turned mysterious recluse makes it clear that despite acting as her white knight, he has no plans to co-star in her fairytale.

But Georgie isn’t asking for his heart—she’s merely intrigued.

After all, Gianluca isn’t just gorgeous—tall and tan from days spent in the sun—his touch sets her world on fire. With him, Georgie experiences the most intoxicating passion she’s ever known, and it only takes a few steamy nights for her to realize that sometimes running away from trouble is the best way to find it.

 

BFF K’s Review of A Place In The Sun

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This book is will melt your heart faster than gelato on a hot summer day! Georgie and Gianluca share a sweet and wonderful love story in this tale of love, loss and finding yourself.

Georgie is escaping her mother’s overbearing tendencies and setting out for an adventure. A bit of chance brings her to Vernazza, Italy, where she meets the lovely and aloof Gianluca. She’s determined to break through his tough outer shell and bring out the man she instinctively knows he’s hiding.

What follows is a delightful and charming story of friendship, love and fighting for your own happiness. A Place In The Sun is the perfect title for this book. Reading it feels like sunshine. I think this might be R.S. Grey’s best work to date and I’m absolutely in love with this book and these characters. It is a must-click for anyone who LOVES a sweet and tender romance full of love and light.

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An advance copy of this book was received from the author. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

I am a lover of books, chocolate, reality TV, black labs, and cold weather. Seriously, if I had it my way I would be curled up on the couch with all of those things… everyday. I live in Texas where I spend my free time writing and reading.

My favorite authors are Mindy Kaling & Jonathan Safran Foer. I’m a comedy geek and love all things “funny”. Women like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling are definitely the biggest inspirations for my writing, though I think my work tends to skew a bit smuttier than theirs.

   

 

 

Review – Royally Screwed by Emma Chase

 

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Emma Chase, New York Times bestselling author of the Tangled Series & Legal Briefs Series, returns with the first of three sizzling standalone books about a family of racy, irresistible Royals.

Nicholas Arthur Frederick Edward Pembrook, Crowned Prince of Wessco, aka “His Royal Hotness”, is wickedly charminroyally-screwed-for-webg, devastatingly handsome, and unabashedly arrogant—hard not to be when people are constantly bowing down to you.

Then, one snowy night in Manhattan, the prince meets a dark haired beauty who doesn’t bow down. Instead, she throws a pie in his face.

Nicholas wants to find out if she tastes as good as her pie, and this heir apparent is used to getting what he wants.

***

Dating a prince isn’t what waitress Olivia Hammond ever imagined it would be.

There’s a disapproving queen, a wildly inappropriate spare heir, relentless paparazzi, and brutal public scrutiny. While they’ve traded in horse drawn carriages for Rolls Royces and haven’t chopped anyone’s head off lately—the royals are far from accepting of this commoner.

But to Olivia—Nicholas is worth it.

***

Nicholas grew up with the whole world watching, and now Marriage Watch is in full force. In the end, Nicholas has to decide who he is, but more importantly, who he wants to be: a King… or the man who gets to love Olivia forever.

 

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BFF K’s Review of Royally Screwed

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I L❤️VE reading a book that plays out in my head like a movie, when the writing is so real and vivid and descriptive that I can picture every part of the scenes as though I were sitting in a theater. Royally Screwed is one of those books! Emma Chase has written another outstanding romantic comedy. Her writing is fresh, fun emotional and heart-felt. This book solidifies her place on my must-one-click list!

Nicholas is a Prince. And, he faces all of the pressure that one might expect would come with such a title. His Grandmother, the Queen, is pressuring him to find a suitable, noble, wife. When he is sent to New York City to track down his wayward younger brother, he finds himself in a cafe, face-to-face with a woman who takes her breath away. After insulting her the first few times they meet, he finds himself going back not only to apologize, but because he just can’s stay away from this enigmatic woman.

Olivia is NOT nobility and far from it. But, she is beautiful, hard-working, dependable, independent, fun, kind and caring. And, Nicholas can’t help falling in love with her. What follows is the wonderful story of a whirlwind romance of epic proportions. This is virtually a modern-day-Disney movie given life in book form!

Like all of Chase’s books, Royally Screwed is full of fantastic supporting characters. There are quirky family members and supportive, relate-able BFF’s. These personalities and relationships add depth and complexity to the story.

Royally Screwed is one of my most enjoyable reads of the year. It is the perfect pallet cleanser for an anxious or overwrought emotional read. Though be prepared there is also true emotion in this story and I even had a few tears before we reached the Happily Ever After.

I can’t wait until the next book in the Royally Series (Royally Matched) is released in February! This book is a must-one-click for all Rom-Com lovers!

 

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A copy of this book was purchased and listened to on Audible at the same time that I read an advance copy received prior to release. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

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Excerpt

She’s even lovelier than I remembered, than I dreamed. Delicate midnight tendrils frame a face that belongs in a museum—with stunning dark sapphire eyes that should be commemorated in vibrant oils and soft watercolors. If Helen launched a thousand ships, this girl could raise a thousand hard-ons.

She’s prettily made, the top of her head coming only to my chin, but fantastically curvy. Great full tits that strain the buttons of a wrinkled white blouse, shapely hips in a black skirt tapering to a tiny waist I could wrap my hands around and toned legs encased in sheer black tights finish off the whole package very nicely.

An unfamiliar anxiousness fizzes like soda in my gut.

“The door was open,” I explain.

“It’s broken.”

Logan flicks at the lock. Security is his life, so a broken lock would annoy him like a puzzle with the final piece missing.

“What do you want?”

She has no idea who I am. It’s in the defensive way she holds herself and the accusatory note in her voice. Some women try to pretend they don’t recognize me, but I can always tell. Her ignorance is rather…thrilling. There are no expectations, no hidden agendas, no reasons to pretend—what she sees is what she gets. And all she sees is me.

My throat is suddenly a barren wasteland. I swallow, but it’s difficult.

“Well, he’s desperate for some pie.” I hook my thumb at Simon. “And I…wanted to apologize for the other evening. I don’t normally act that way. I was on a bit of bender…”

“In my experience, people don’t do things when they’re drunk that they wouldn’t do normally.”

“No, you’re right. I would’ve thought all those things, but I never would’ve said them out loud.” I move closer, slowly. “And if I’d been sober…my opening bid would’ve been much higher.”

“She crosses her arms. “Are you trying to be cute?”

“No. I don’t have to try…it just sort of happens.”

 

 

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About the Author

Emma Chase is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the hot and hilarious Tangled series and The Legal Briefs series. Emma lives in New Jersey with her husband, two children and two naughty (but really cute) dogs. She has a long-standing love/hate relationship with caffeine.

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Review & Release Day Blitz – Tonic by Staci Hart

 

 

Title: Tonic
Author: Staci Hart
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Release Date: October 13, 2016

Joel Anderson doesn’t take anything seriously.Not his relationships, which have been few and far between since his brutal divorce. Not the drama of working in a tattoo parlor, which seems to be around every corner. When things get him down, he smiles and cracks a joke. But he’s not the kind of man you cross, or you’ll find yourself at the wrong end of his fists.

Annika Belousov takes everything seriously.

Like her job as a reality television producer, given that she typically has something to prove. Or her love life, which is defined by a series of requirements — affluent, ambitious, accomplished, to name a few. Definitely her family, who worked their whole lives to afford her every opportunity, a sacrifice she doesn’t take lightly. When she’s tapped to produce a reality show at Joel’s shop, she doesn’t think twice, just goes in for the kill, as if there were any other way.

The second Annika walks into Joel’s shop, he makes it his mission to crack her open, but she’s not having it. He’s all wrong — too crass, too hairy, too un-serious. But it doesn’t take her long to find out there’s more to him than smirks and tattoos. And what she finds could put her career and his heart on the line.

Not that Joel cares. Because for the first time in a long time, he’s found his tonic.

A teaser from one of my most FAVORITE parts of the book! <<Swoon>>

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

BFF K’s Review of Tonic by Staci Hart

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Tonic is…..word stealing! I love this book so much that it takes my words away. My words have mostly escaped me because I know that there’s NO WAY I can put words together well enough to describe how beautifully written this book is! But, I have to try.

Tonic is lovely, heart-wrenching, butterfly-inducing, laugh out loud, tear-jerking, amazingly wonderful! I LOVE these characters. (Let’s be honest, you had me at the cover! I love this cover so much!) Annika and Joel are as different as their names. They are light contrast with dark and clean skin contrasted with ink. They’re cool facade versus wild emotion. And the coming together of all these things creates a beautiful kaleidoscope of color and emotion that will take you to the highest-highs and the lowest-lows.

Annika is a complex heroine. She’s harsh and demanding professionally, but personally, there’s a softness and a caring that she doesn’t let the rest of the world see. She is a strong character on her own, but even better when combined with our hero. Joel is life out loud. He’s every emotion shared freely and without reservation. He’s kind, caring, funny, smart and loyal. He’s everything you would want in a friend, a boss, a partner. (And he’s inked head to toe with a beautiful beard.)

The storyline is unique, the intimate scenes are full of steam, the characters are well developed, the supporting cast is colorful and clever. Tonic is a really wonderful book and one that I absolutely recommend you add to your TBR. Right now, do it RIGHT NOW! Cheers to Staci Hart on a book I’m going to love to recommend for a really long time!

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An Advance Copy was received in exchange for an honest review.

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About the Author

 

Staci has been a lot of things up to this point in her life: a graphic designer, an entrepreneur, a seamstress, a clothing and handbag designer, a waitress. Can’t forget that. She’s also been a mom, with three little girls who are sure to grow up to break a number of hearts. She’s been a wife, even though she’s certainly not the cleanest, or the best cook. She’s also super, duper fun at a party, especially if she’s been drinking whiskey. Her favorite word starts with f and ends with k.
From roots in Houston, to a seven year stint in Southern California, Staci and her family ended up settling somewhere in between and equally north, in Denver. They are new enough that snow is still magical. When she’s not writing, she’s sleeping, cleaning, or designing graphics.

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