Posts Tagged ‘hope’

A story written with courage and love ~ I’m With You by Taylor Dean ~ Book Blast and Giveaway

Posted: May 6, 2014 in Book Blast, Contemporary Literature, giveaways
Tags: , , , ,
4

It is with great pleasure and joy that I am showcasing Taylor Dean’s newest release i’m with you.

I’ve known Taylor for some time now and have read almost every book she’s written. If she didn’t write so many, I could say I’ve read them all!!

I have almost all of her books in print copies and they have their own special bookshelf to display her lovely covers.

Enjoy the blast and be sure to enter the giveaway ya’ll!

 Thanks for another wonderful story Taylor. I’ll be sure to have my kleenex handy as I smile through the tears.

~~~
I'm with youI’m With You by Taylor Dean

Can three little words irrevocably change your life?

When the doctors inform Chloe Brennan that her pregnancy is “incompatible with life,” her subsequent choices will change her path forever.

She becomes one of the quiet, unsung heroes of this world, incredibly strong, yet somehow wrongly looked upon as damaged.

Three people will pierce Chloe’s existence: her husband, a stranger, and a precious baby.

One will say goodbye, one will say hello, and one will say both at the same time.

I’m With You is a novel about selfless love and the sacredness of life.

Please note: While this book is a romance novel, it also deals with the sensitive issue of baby loss grief.

The emotions are real, and sometimes dark.

If you are sensitive to this issue, this may not be the book for you.

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7EH_OQvVzc?rel=0]

 

Praise for I’M WITH YOU:
Taylor Dean creates a beautiful story of loss, grief, and love.
~Jana (Book Reviewer)
Chloe’s story of grief, growth and healing is poignant and had me wanting to shed tears one moment, and then smiling as hope took root and bloomed in her heart.
~Charissa of Joy in the Moments

It’s amazing how these tragic moments in our lives shape our futures, and this wonderful grandson of Ms. Dean’s gave her the strength, courage and words to let others know about grief as well as Trisomy 18.

~Katherine (Book Reviewer)

Amazon

.

Excerpt from I’m With You:

Jack turned and looked at her, his eyes wet with tears. “I’m sorry you had to go through it alone.”

“If I could have, maybe I would’ve left too. I didn’t have that option. I don’t blame Mark, I really don’t. Who wouldn’t want to escape? It was a horrific experience.”

“I don’t think it was,” Jack stated quietly.

Startled by his words, Chloe said, “Excuse me?”

“I don’t believe you.”

Chloe felt surprised by his perceptiveness. Her breath caught in her throat as she said, “You’re right. Losing him was horrific. But the experience was one of the most precious times of my life. I’ve never felt so full of love for another individual. It consumed me. I loved him with an intensity I’ve never felt before. He’s the greatest blessing I’ve ever received in my life and I don’t regret a single moment. Maybe I never actually heard him speak, but he said more to me in his short life than anyone has ever said to me in my lifetime. He spoke to my heart in ways that are unfathomable. He changed me and left an imprint on my life that I will never forget. He taught me the true meaning of love and what it’s like to love someone else more than yourself.”

Jack shook his head, fighting emotion. “I can see that, I can feel that. This room is a testament to that love. I can feel your overwhelming love for your child just by glancing in here. That’s how strong it is.”

“Not everyone would agree with you. Mark hates this room. It represents loss to him.”

Jack took a step closer, his eyes blazing. “It represents love, completely unselfish love that few people in this world will ever understand or experience. I’m amazed by you, Chloe.”

Amazon

A word about I’m With You:

Baby loss is a difficult subject. The accompanying grief is complicated and heartbreaking.

In December of 2011, my daughter lost a baby at eight months gestation to Trisomy 18. If you don’t know what that is, I didn’t either, until it happened to us. (You will learn all about this devastating condition during the course of the book.) I’m With You is a romance novel that includes my daughter’s Trisomy 18 story. I knew I wanted to write about the experience one day, but it took me awhile to emotionally prepare myself to actually do it. It has been highly therapeutic. My daughter granted me permission to share her Trisomy 18 story with the hope that it will help others who are dealing with baby loss grief.

There is a song written for and dedicated to the families of Trisomy 18 and 13 babies. It is beautiful and deeply expresses the love parents feel for these special babies.

Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep

[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-QJF0Cs4f9s?rel=0]

~~~

 

Taylor DeanAuthor Taylor Dean

Taylor Dean lives in Texas and is the mother of four grown children. Upon finding herself with an empty nest, she began to write the stories that were always wandering around in her head, quickly finding she had a passion for writing, specifically romance. Whether it’s paranormal, contemporary, or suspense-you’ll find all sub-genres of CLEAN Romance in her line-up.

Website * Twitter * Facebook * Goodreads

~~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Blast Giveaway

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash

Click on the Rafflecopter below to enter.

Raffle button

Ends 5/31/14

book blast button

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, Not A Writer and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

To see all of my giveaways click on the lucky horseshoe below!

horseshoe photo: Horseshoe horseshoe.jpg

The Calm Before the Storm ~ DVAM ~ Be Aware ~ Free Book and Giveaway

Posted: October 3, 2013 in Blog Tour, Freebies!, giveaways
Tags: , , ,
6

The Calm Before the Storm VBT Banner (1)

This is a short story dealing in a dark subject manner, domestic abuse.

Many of us know someone who is in this deadly situation, and some of you may be caught up in one.

Joining this tour and spreading the word is one small step by me towards stopping this plague on women, men, and children.

The Calm Before the Storm is offered free on Smashwords.

Written by the author to raise awareness.

~~~~~

The Calm Before the Storm by Tamaria Soana

The Calm Before the Storm

                        The last two years of Erica Bloom’s life have been spent looking over her shoulder. Sawyer Marsh promised the day she filed for divorce and left him, that if he couldn’t have her no one would. Even though Sawyer hasn’t contacted her in two years she’s still feared for her life. She remembers all too well the nightmare their marriage was and what it felt to be on the receiving end of his wrath.

The news of Sawyer’s engagement allows Erica to finally let her guard down and enjoy her new life and budding relationship with Brock Maxwell.

 

While away relaxing at Brock’s vacation home on the Willow Lake, the past comes back to haunt her. Were the past few years just the calm before the storm? 

Excerpt:

Erica picked it up and smiled when she saw it was Joann calling.

“Hey, Joann.”

“Hi, Erica. You busy?”

“No, not at all. I was just reading the paper.”

“Did you hear the news about Sawyer?”

Erica stood up.  Chills ran down her spine at the mention of his name. “What news?” she replied, just above a whisper.

“He’s getting married.”

The words stunned her.

“Erica, are you still there?” Joann asked.

She took a deep breath, trying to calm down so she could respond.

“How do you know?” she managed to stammer. So many feelings were flowing through her body as she paced the floor. They ranged from fear to relief. Was he truly moving on?

“Tim ran into his cousin at the hardware store. He said they’re getting married in a few months.”

“Wow.” Erica breathed out.

“Are you okay?”

“Yes. This is good news. He’s moved on. Maybe I can stop looking over my shoulder every time I go out. Do you know who she is?”

“No. From what I understand, some woman he met while on a business trip and Sawyer’s  cousin mentioned  that she’s much younger.”

“The poor girl doesn’t know what she’s getting herself into. I feel for her because I know all of his tricks. He’s sexy and charming in the beginning and you’re so over the top in love with him.  You marry him and get so caught up in the fairytale you believe is your life, until one day he changes into the man he truly is. A monster,” Erica stoically stated.

“Erica, I know you went through hell with him, but it’s been two years. You have a terrific man in your life. I think it’s time you let go of the past and live again.”

Erica sank down on the couch. She felt like she was hit by a freight train.  “I have a lot to think about. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

“Let’s get together soon.”

“Sounds great.”

“Erica, relax. The nightmare is finally over.” Her friend reassured her.

“Bye, Joann.” Erica ended the call and stared into space. Could it be that easy? Am I honestly free from that man once and for all?

FREE on Smashwords

~~~~~

Watch the Trailer:

.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQItNvn9QIo]

.

From the Author:

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

I wanted to write a short story to raise awareness for Domestic Abuse. This cause is very near to my heart.

 the calm before the storm DVAM

.

Here are some Domestic Violence Statistics

  • Every 9 seconds in the US a woman is assaulted or beaten.
  • Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women—more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined.
  • Nearly 1 in 5 teenage girls who have been in a relationship said a boyfriend threatened violence or self-harm if presented with a breakup.
  • Every day in the US, more than three women are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends.

Those facts alone make you want to stand up and do something. One thing you can do if you’re in an abusive relationship or know someone who is please get help by calling the hotline.


National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−SAFE (7233) or TTY 1−800−787−3224

Things you can do to make a difference

Donate to The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence   NCADV Site

Support your local woman’s shelter by donating money, clothes,  and basic toiletries.

End the Silence on Domestic Violence   Dr Phil’s Site  View  Dr Phil’s Campaign

About the Author:

Tamaria Soana is middle aged, but just feels her life has begun. She writes sexy contemporary romance stories that always end with a ‘happily ever after’. Growing up she loved to read and make up new places in her head to escape to. In her late teens she began writing short stories and poetry; it wasn’t until her late thirties before she began to spin a full story.

She’s married and a stay-at-home-mom of two beautiful young girls, they reside in Western New York. Cuddling up with a good book under an electric throw is her way to escape the cold Buffalo nights.

Besides writing, she co-owns Shades of Rose Marketing and hosts a talk show on Talkshoe called Live with Tamaria ~ Giving authors a voice.

Author Links:    Site       Facebook Author Page     Twitter

~~~~~ 

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Tamaria is giving away a $5.00 Amazon Gift Card during her tour.

For a chance to win Just click on the Rafflecopter below.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

Shades of Rose Marketing

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

Related articles

Review and Giveaway ~Tragically Flawed ~ A.M. Hargove’s Scintillating New Release

Posted: October 2, 2013 in Blog Tour, giveaways, reviews, Steamy Romance
Tags: , , , , , ,
7

TragicallyFlawedbanner

Ooh! Another steamy read from A.M. Hargrove!

I’ve read all of her books and can’t wait to tell you about Tragically Flawed.

You are going to love Riviera and Shan.

Don’t forget to enter the amazing giveaway!

TragicallyFlawed cover

047b6-goodreads

Buy Links: Amazon / B&N / Smashwords

BOOK SUMMARY

Riviera Benson has a talent…one she discovered by accident. She’s a painter, but canvas isn’t her medium. She creates her lovely masterpieces on walls and ceilings of million dollar homes as murals and faux finishes. Her art is in high demand now, but life wasn’t always that way. Riviera has secrets from her past she intends to keep tightly locked away…terrifying secrets that keep her awake at night…that prevent her from getting close to anyone…anyone that is, until she meets Shan.

Benjamin Shandon, owner of Shandon Homes, works like a thousand demons are chasing him…because perhaps they are. His business has boomed, ever since the forest fire swept through the canyon and destroyed hundreds of million dollar homes. He demands excellence in everything…from his employees to his women. He slows down for nothing, keeping a schedule that no sane person would want. But Riviera interrupts everything, twisting his guts inside out, and wedging her way into his heart, destroying a promise he made to himself.

Will they let their pasts control their future, or will they decide to let go and allow their hearts to discover each other’s?

~~~~~

Enjoy this glimpse inside Tragically Flawed

TFTeaser2

~~~~

My Review

Like so many times before, A.M. Hargrove cast a spell on me. I’ve read all of her books and always found that my time spent in her stories was too brief. I’m always left wanting more.

So, when I got my hands on Tragically Flawed, I had to start reading right away.

What I discovered was a captivating love story with flesh and blood characters haunted by their past.

Riviera has escaped an abusive relationship, but the scars and bruises remain on the inside long after they fade from her body.

Starting over in a new town, she finds a roommate who becomes her close friend and supporter.

While her talent for painting lands Riviera a job quickly, her boss is insecure and has a reputation for bullying her employees.

Shan is the owner of Shandon Homes and that’s how they first meet. While working in what Riviera thinks is an empty house, her boisterous singing awakens a monster. Shan storms in, shouting abuse and reduces her to a quivering wreck.

Their first meeting may have been a disaster but as they work together and begin to know each other, their attraction grows.

Can two damaged people, one unable to forgive himself for a past tragedy and one running from the echoes of her previous life find healing and trust through each other?

Riviera is a woman to applaud. Scared and vulnerable, she’s also strong and determined. Sure, she’s danced with the devil, but she still believes there’s good in the world.

Shan is sexy, bold and alpha all the way, but he’s burdened with guilt over his part in the loss of a friend. Riviera slips past the walls he hides behind and gives him hope.

There are some secondary characters you’ll meet and want to know more about and a boss from the dark side that you’ll love to hate.

Tragically Flawed was a fast read for me. It dabbled in the dark side but it was also funny and sexy.

About the sexy. If you blush easily you’re going to have rosy cheeks. A.M. Hargrove is really good at raising your blood pressure and steaming up your kindle.

This book was beyond what I hoped it would be and I’ll be recommending it to all who’ll listen. Except for the young readers. The content is for a mature reader.

I’m tickled pink to give it a resounding 5 STARS

~~~~

A.M. Hargrove

A.M. Hargrove

One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M. Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn’t do something soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been dreaming of her whole life.  So, she rolled down the passenger window of her fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase.  Luckily, the pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodge ball pro and had über quick reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head.  Feeling a tad guilty about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what laptop out the window.  She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone, called her boss and quit her job.  Grinning, she made another call to her hubs and told him of her new adventure (after making sure his heart was beating properly again).

So began A. M. Hargrove’s career as a YA/NA and Adult Romance writer. Her books include the following: Edge of Disaster, Shattered Edge and Kissing Fire (The Edge Series); The Guardians of Vesturon series (Survival, Resurrection, Determinant, reEmergent and Beginnings); Dark Waltz and Tragically Flawed.

Other than being in love with writing about being in love, she loves chocolate, ice cream and coffee and is positive they should be added as part of the USDA food groups.

Author Links:

Blog: http://amhargrove.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Amhargrove1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AMHargroveAuthor

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5338829.A_M_Hargrove

TRAGICALLY FLAWED Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18271624-tragically-flawed

~~~~

giveaway photo: Giveaway Banner for 42nd giveaway.png

Look what you can win!

Panel 0

Click on the rafflecopter link below to enter.

RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY

~~~~

Inkslinger badge

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For all of my giveaways go HERE.

Related articles

Launch Day! Heart Search: Found by Carlie M. A. Cullen ~ Trailer Reveal

Posted: July 11, 2013 in Blog Tour, Dark Fantasy, New Release, Series, Trailer, Vampires
Tags: , , , ,
6

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000040_00009]

Are you ready for the launch of Carlie’s newest book, Heart Search: Book Two, Found?

It’s that time and I have some goodies for you.

This is going to be such a fun tour. So much more is coming!

First, feast your eyes on her cover art. I believe she has a signature for her covers now. Further down in my post you can see the cover art for Heart Search:Book One,  Lost and you’ll see what I mean.

Heart Search: Found, Book II

Blurb

One bite started it all . . .

Another mysterious disappearance sparks a frightening chain of events for Remy and her family. Events foretold come to pass, and more strange and alarming occurrences assail her life. Where can she turn?

Coven politics continue to threaten Joshua’s existence, but an even bigger menace looms . . .

And Remy’s life hangs in the balance – can Joshua save her?

Fate still toys with mortals and immortals alike, as hearts torn apart by darkness confront perils which could lead to their doom.

~~~~~

Heart Search: Found is now available to purchase!

Amazon US / Amazon UK

~~~~~

Check out the new trailer!

Carlie has done something incredible!

You’re going to want to run right over and get this book. Just sayin!

~~~~

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3DSssMGyA1E]

~~~~

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Heartsearchauthor

Carlie M A Cullen

Carlie M A Cullen was born in London. She grew up in Hertfordshire where she first discovered her love of books and writing. She has been an administrator and marketer all her working life and was also a professional teacher of Ballroom and Latin American dancing until recently.

She has always written in some form or another, but Heart Search: Lost is her first novel. This was launched 8th October 2012 through Myrddin Publishing Group and book two, Heart Search: Found, is due out early July 2013. She writes mainly in the Fantasy/Paranormal Romance genres for YA, New Adult and Adult.

Carlie is also a professional editor.

Carlie also holds the reins of a writing group called Writebulb. Their first anthology, The Other Way Is Essex, was published September 2012 under Myrddin Publishing Group. Their second anthology is in editing.

Carlie currently lives in Essex, UK with her daughter.

You can find Carlie M. A. Cullen at the links below:

Blog/Twitter

I’ve read Heart Search, Book One: Lost and loved it!

Heart Search: Lost (Heart Search, #1)

goodreads-badge-add-plus

Go here to read my 5 Star Review

~~~~~~~~

Stay tuned for more fun and exciting things to come as the tour continues!

Check out these others wonderful bloggers participating in the tour.

Tour host’s:

Sherry Fundin

Joy Keeney

Donna L Sadd

Michelle Birbeck

We will be revealing more about Carlie’s new release with inerviews, reviews and exclusive excerpts

Come join the fun and help spread the word!

Winners ~ What Matters Most by Bette Lee Crosby

Posted: June 16, 2013 in giveaways, Winners!
Tags: , , , , , ,
4

winners photo: winners winners.gif

It’s that time again.

Time to announce the winners for  What Matters Most by Bette Lee Crosby!

What Matters Most

The Paperback Winner is:

Janna S.

The e-book winner is:

Donna

This was a Tag Team Event!

Go here to see if you won on Sherry’s post at fundinmental!

Congratulations!

All winners have been notified.

Thanks to everyone for your comments.

I do love reading them and hope you continue to visit fuonlyknew!

Thanks so much to Bette Lee for her wonderful books and for letting me host her giveaway.

*****For all of my giveaways go here*****

I’d love to keep telling ya’ll about some really great books.

Subscribe by email and lets talk!

Related articles

WWW Wednesday #6 ~ Steeds, Nephilim, and Survival

Posted: April 24, 2013 in angels, Dark Fantasy, Demons, Meme, Mystery, Romance, Vampires, WWW Wednesday
Tags: , , , , , , ,
4

WWW Wednesday

looking out a window photo: girl looking out the window girl-looking-out-the-window.jpg

Hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

~

What are you currently reading?

Moonlit

goodreads-badge-add-plus

Eighteen-year-old Tanzy Hightower knows horses, has grown up with them on Wildwood Farm. She also knows not to venture beyond the trees that line the pasture. Things happen out there that cannot be explained. Or undone. Worse, no one but she and the horses can see what lurks in the shadows of the woods.

When a moonlit ride turns into a terrifying chase, Tanzy is left to question everything, from the freak accident that killed her father to the very blood in her veins.  Broken and confused, she turns to Lucas, a scarred, beautiful stranger, and to Vanessa, a charming new friend who has everything Tanzy doesn’t.

But why do they seem to know more about her than she knows herself?

Having a grand time!

~

What did you recently finish reading?

Halo of the Nephilim

goodreads-badge-add-plus

Can a fallen angel, his band of broken souls, and his nephilim children change the world?
Armaros the Cursed, Satan’s favorite of the Fallen, falls once again after breaking the rules.  Fearing an eternity of punishment, he desperately attempts to save himself by sending a bird to his island.  The SOS message is received by his beloved congregation.  They prepare the great Armaros’ kingdom for his return.  Can his loyal worshipers rescue him from the pit?
Halo of the Nephilim is the sequel to Halo of the Damned.  The story begins with Armaros’ arrest.  Reporters are duped into believing he was gunned down while awaiting trial.  Declared dead, his only known surviving daughter, Joanna Easterhouse, proves her relation and inherits everything.  She catapults her career from an entry-level advertising assistant to the head of Armaros’ advertising empire.  Life couldn’t be better: a windfall inheritance, real power within a major industry, a loving relationship with a former demon, and a baby on the way.  She should be on top of the world, but knows everything good must come to an end.
Joanna’s sister, Kim Easterhouse, becomes Kim Slattery after marrying Sean, her dead mother’s probate lawyer.  Joanna generously includes them as key players in her advertising chain.  They, too, have much to smile about, but a string of events leads them back to old family secrets.
Wickedness looms over the Easterhouse family once more, forcing them into an unlikely showdown filled with page-turning excitement.  Like Halo of the Damned, Halo of the Nephilim is filled with conspiracy and angel lore taken directly from scripture and other ancient writings.  Nephilim meander the earth in confusion, constantly questioning who they are and where they stand in terms of good and evil.  More mind control themes top off this tale of doom.  Dina Rae delivers the darkness in the most entertaining light.

My review is coming soon!

~

What do you think you’ll read next?

Sierra

goodreads-badge-add-plus

Alyssa Fontaine’s life, loved ones–everything familiar and dear–are brutally taken from her. Taken captive by two men, she endures a horrific nightmare. A new life is forced upon her and even a new name. Just when it appears that no hope is in sight, she is saved by an unlikely twist of fate. Trapped in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains, life will open its arms to her again and she will embrace it. She will find love such as she never knew existed.

Sierra is a heart-wrenching story of the power of the human spirit to survive amidst impossible circumstances and severe losses. It is a story of survival . . . and hope

I’m thrilled to have another of Taylor Dean’s books!

So, whatcha readin?

question mark photo: Question Mark Question-1.jpg

Related articles

All “Hope” Is Not Lost

Posted: June 17, 2012 in fiction, historical romance
Tags: , , , , , ,
9

I had the honor of receiving this book for an early review. Hope’s Betrayal is a historical romance in every sense of the word. It takes you back to the first romance book you read and evokes those feelings of wonder and anticipation. I can still feel the sun baking my skin as I lay on the pier, enthralled by the story of Hope and George.

Sometimes I like to comment on the cover art. This cover is seductive and the woman is now firmly implanted in my mind as Hope. I love it when the cover compliments the story inside.

Excerpt borrowed from Goodreads

One wild, winter’s night two worlds collide.

Known for his ruthless efficiency, Captain George Huntley is sent to stamp out smuggling on the south coast of England. On a night raid, the Captain captures a lanky lad, but finds his troubles are just beginning when the lad turns out to be a lass, Hope Tyler.

With Hope as bait, the Captain sets a trap to catch the rest of the gang. But in a battle of wills, with his reputation at stake, George Huntley starts to respect feisty, independent Hope. Challenged by her sea-green eyes and stubborn loyalty; Huntley now faces a new threat – his growing attraction to a sworn enemy. And a love where either Hope betrays her own kind, or Captain Huntley is court-marshalled, is not an easy destiny to follow.

I truly enjoyed Hope’s Betrayal. A sweet tale of falling in love despite their different places in society,  the risks of a damaged reputation and the loss of a dream profession.

Hope is forced to join the free traders to feed her family. Smuggling is not her first choice, but what else can she do. To protect herself, she wears a disguise.

Captain Huntley is hell-bent on furthering his career and will not stop until the smugglers gang are all rounded up. He manages to catch one of them, but the lad is injured and he is forced to take him to his estate lest the boy dies.

At first the captain thinks he is going crazy.Upon cleaning up the unconscious lad, he gazes upon his face and feels stirred by him. He leans closer and laughs in relief when he recognizes the lad is a lass. And a beautiful one at that.

The physical attraction might be quick, as it can be in real life, but the emotional attraction is developed slowly. There are many obstacles to overcome for Hope and George if they are to be together and the way will not be easy.

 

Grace Elliot‘s writing is like a wave, building to a crest as it approaches shore, then crashing down.  As you read the undertow pulls you deeper into the story, tossing you about and then gently depositing you safely on land.

There are a few places in the story where I felt it could have been explained in more detail, but maybe that is because I felt the need for more.

Historical romance has not been my first genre of choice since I was younger, but recently I have discovered some wonderful stories and I am left wondering, when did I wander away from reading them and what took me so long to come back?

Hope’s Betrayal is romance with a touch of innocence and I recommend it to anyone that enjoys falling in love, with all its angst and fervor.

5 STARS

I do not usually read the second book in a series first, so I am going to quickly get reading Eulogy’s Secret (The Huntley Trilogy – Book 1) so that I can tell you all about it.

More exciting news! Grace has graciously(grins) given me a working blurb of the third book in this trilogy, Verity’s Lie. Want to read it? Okay!

Lord Charles Huntley, notorious rogue…and government agent. His latest assignment is to protect a politicians daughter, Verity Verrinder, while her father negotiates an alliance against Napoleon. Huntley embarks on a campaign of seduction to keep Verity under his watchful eye, but hasn’t anticipated falling in love with his charge. When Lord Huntley turns his bone-melting charms on her, Verity suspects she’s exchanging an overbearing parent for a domineering rogue. Denying her attraction to the handsome Huntley, Verity goes in search of freedom, only to run into the clutches of French kidnappers. This leaves Lord Huntley with a stark choice between trying to save Britain’s peace negotiations or the life of the only woman he has ever loved.

I can’t wait to read more. I am hopelessly entangled in the Huntley family saga and these three brothers. What is really great is that each novel is written so that they can stand alone but why would you not want to read them in order. It is so much more fun! 

About Grace Elliot

Grace Elliot leads a double life as a veterinarian by day and an author of historical romance by night. Grace is an avid reader and believes intelligent people need to read romance – as an antidote to the modern world. She works in a companion animal practice near London and is housekeeping staff to five demanding felines.

She has now written three historical romance novels.

 

To purchase any of these books, just click on the cover images.

You can find out more about Grace Elliot and her books here:

https://www.amazon.com/author/graceelliot

http://graceelliot-author.blogspot.com

A Story of Triumph

Posted: March 16, 2012 in Uncategorized
Tags: , , ,
6

Title: Center of the Storm

Author: Ann Simko

Published by: Musa Publishing

 

Dodge, an angry teenager, grew up in the foster care system. Shuffled from home to home, he has never stayed in any one place for more than 6 months. A miracle would place him with the family of Kate and Mike Landry, on a horse farm in Pennsylvania. There he forms a bond with a horse named Storm, also a victim of abuse. Can Dodge let down his barriers and accept the unconditional love offered to him? Is this what he wants from life, could it really be that simple?

Flash forward. Dodge is now a grown man, married, with an adopted teenage son. Chris is also a victim of abuse, found near death in an abandoned shed. Dodge can’t seem to get past the walls that Chris has erected. There is a late night call from Kate asking Dodge to come to the farm. Maybe taking Chris with him on the 5 hour drive will give Dodge the chance to reach him.

This story flashes from Dodge as a teenager and as an adult. It is superbly written, allowing you to easily follow the story line. Ann Simko writes about the sensitive subjects of abuse, cutting, and suicide. With humorous scenes well placed to lighten it, she writes a moving tale of healing, hope and love.

Rarely have I felt so many emotions from a book. I laughed, I cringed in dread, and in several places I cried.

I received this as an ebook by the author in exchange for an honest review. I will be purchasing it as a paperback because I want to feel the cover as it softens from being read so many times.

I gave this book 5 stars only because I could not give it more!

For more about the author and her books visit her website.

www.annsimko.com