Hope Series Tour with E.C. Jackson and Giveaway

02 Feb, 2021 by in giveaway 1 comment

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

A Gateway to Hope (Hope Series #1) By E. C. Jackson Christian Contemporary Romance Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 297 Pages >May 20, 2015

Twenty-one-year-old Neka is a bit of an introvert, she also happens to be stunningly beautiful.

When she discovers her friend James is about to be dumped, she sees the perfect opportunity to escape from her quiet life. Can she summon the courage to leave it all behind?

James Copley comes from a ruthless family. It’s rubbed off.

Years ago, he disengaged from his brother’s smear campaign, but now his father has offered him an ultimatum, “Get married or lose your seat at the table.”

Plotting to stamp his design on the family business, he proposes to a woman, even though he doesn’t love her.

But his carefully laid plans start to unravel when she leaves him on the day she’s due to meet his family.

Could years of planning his comeback vanish with her departure?

A possible solution comes in an unexpected form: Neka. She’s not only a friend, but the daughter of his benefactor. And she’s right there, offering to support him.

But will her support stretch to marriage?

He attempts to win her over to his plan but collides with her powerful father who wants to leverage the situation for his own gain.

In their fight for survival and love, they are forced to face some uncomfortable truths.

Can they overcome thwarted dreams and missed chances to find true love, or does forcing destiny’s hand only lead to misery?

(Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

A Living Hope (Hope Series #2) By E. C. Jackson Christian Contemporary Romance Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 287 Pages July 31, 2016

It was a match made in heaven. Or so everyone thought. Sadie Mae Cummings is all set to marry her childhood sweetheart, Kyle, when she is assigned to tutor Lincoln, the new college football running back. This sophomore phenomenon has all the girls on campus knocking on his door. But Sadie isn’t interested in his advances.

Lincoln’s overblown ego doesn’t take well to being shunned, and he resolves to make Sadie his own. He pursues her relentlessly, until finally Kyle finds himself shut out of Sadie’s life, with their shared future crumbling around him.

After two years, Sadie’s relationship with Lincoln ends, and she is left having to put the pieces of her life back together. She desires nothing more than to recapture her relationship with Kyle. He has stayed true to the dreams they had planned together, living the vision even without Sadie by his side.

When she moves back to her hometown, she labors to rekindle their love. But things have changed, and Kyle has moved on. Sadie quickly discovers how hard it is to rebuild burned bridges.

Follow Sadie’s story as she fights for a chance to restore broken dreams. Will love endure?

This inspirational romance by E. C. Jackson is book two of the Hope series and is a standalone book.

(Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

The Certain Hope (Hope Series #3) By E. C. Jackson Christian Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 318 Pages December 5th 2018

Love at first sight. It’s every girl’s dream. But Tara Simpkins is finding out it’s not as easy as it seems. Is this truly the man God sent to be her husband, or is she just desperate to escape her loneliness? The recent loss of both parents has left her reeling, and close friends don’t think she’s in any position to make major life decisions. She and her new-found love are convinced they can live happily ever after in the home of their dreams. His family thinks he’s moving way too fast and might disappoint the kind-hearted woman he’s fallen head over heels for. And then there’s Leah. Leah is supposed to be part of his past, but what if she decides she’s his future? Tara’s match made in Heaven may be over before it truly begins.

(Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

The Confident Hope (Hope Series #4) By E. C. Jackson Christian Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 338 Pages

September 28, 2020

Is there hope for this love between friends?

Pamela Hayes is a smart, successful business owner with a supportive family and a thriving bakery. She should be the happiest girl in the world. But she can’t shake the melancholy that accompanies every conversation she has with her best friend, Mark. Pamela doesn’t know how much longer she can hide her true feelings.

Why can’t Mark see how perfect they would be together? She would make a much better girlfriend than the one he currently has. Pamela prays he’ll come to his senses soon and realize he’s with the wrong girl. But when her dream comes true, it isn’t the fantasy she had envisioned.

There is trouble in paradise from the start, and all the red flags she’s been ignoring are starting to threaten her confidence…and her relationship with Mark. She’ll have to rely on family and her faith in God to help her secure the hope she so desperately needs.

(Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

About the Author

E. C. Jackson began her writing career with the full-length play Pajama Party. Thirty-one years later, she adapted the play into Pajama Party: The Story, a companion book to the second book in the five-book standalone Hope series.

Jackson’s favorite pastime is reading fiction. She enjoys taking the journey along with the characters in the books. That also led to her unorthodox approach to story writing. Her vision for each book she writes is to immerse readers into the storyline so they become connected with each character.

“The Write Way: A Real Slice of Life” is the slogan on her website and Facebook author page. She feels that if every person reading her books feels connected to the characters, her job is done.

Website | Goodreads | Amazon | Facebook | Twitter

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

$50 Amazon eGift Card (US only)

Ends February 10, 2021

ENTER HERE

Grab Our Button!

Excerpt

The Confident Hope

As Pamela reached the front door, she put one eye up to the peephole. “Ack. Ack. Ack. Ahem.” She patted her chest, swallowing the stuck food. Mark Simon, wearing a hoodie and with his hands stuffed inside jean pockets, faced away from the door. He glanced at his car, then at his shoes. When a tremor shook his body, he perused the cloudless sky until concentrating on his feet again.

Pamela knew Mark seldom visited anybody’s house, especially on weekends. He saved his free time for an abominable woman. But today, something had gotten the Saturday late-sleeper out of bed before noon—and over to her house. Pamela bet it wasn’t because of a sudden, unshakeable desire to visit his friend.

She blew air through pursed lips and wrapped her arms around her body.

Here we goLights. Camera. Action.

She unlocked and opened the door, leaning on the doorframe. “Welcome. I’m surprised to see you. Glad you stopped by.”

“Is your mother home? We can grab breakfast out if she is.” Hooded eyelids hid his pupils.

From his demeanor, Pamela knew this wasn’t a “let me cool off a moment” visit. Mark required sympathetic ears.

Pamela could tell her lazy morning was quickly going to morph into a difficult afternoon—and possibly an unsettled evening. Golden toasted oats soaked in her milk-filled bowl. Her visions of shopping for a new spring wardrobe evaporated. Water rafting waved goodbye.

Mark rang Pamela’s doorbell whenever his life turned upside down. On those days, he remembered his go-to sounding board. Eleven years of friendship. Might as well invite her pal indoors and forget about her heartbreak when he says how much he loves Jessica.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn

30 Jan, 2021 by in young adult fiction Leave a comment

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn

Legendborn

on September 15, 2020
Pages: 512
Format: Hardcover
five-stars
Buy the BookGoodreads
After her mother dies in an accident, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews wants nothing to do with her family memories or childhood home. A residential program for bright high schoolers at UNC–Chapel Hill seems like the perfect escape—until Bree witnesses a magical attack her very first night on campus.

A flying demon feeding on human energies.

A secret society of so called “Legendborn” students that hunt the creatures down.

And a mysterious teenage mage who calls himself a “Merlin” and who attempts—and fails—to wipe Bree’s memory of everything she saw.

The mage’s failure unlocks Bree’s own unique magic and a buried memory with a hidden connection: the night her mother died, another Merlin was at the hospital. Now that Bree knows there’s more to her mother’s death than what’s on the police report, she’ll do whatever it takes to find out the truth, even if that means infiltrating the Legendborn as one of their initiates.

She recruits Nick, a self-exiled Legendborn with his own grudge against the group, and their reluctant partnership pulls them deeper into the society’s secrets—and closer to each other. But when the Legendborn reveal themselves as the descendants of King Arthur’s knights and explain that a magical war is coming, Bree has to decide how far she’ll go for the truth and whether she should use her magic to take the society down—or join the fight.

Review

Wow, just wow. Legendborn was power. Strong and beautiful.

I was sent a copy from Simon and Schuster for Black History Month to review. I never came up for air. This novel was fire!

Set at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Legendborn is rich with Deep South, African American history and secret societies overlaid with Aurthurian legend. Words can not do it justice, it’s a book that must be felt. Tracy Deonn leads you through generational and traumatic grief, chemistry, and bad a* fight scenes.

Bree is seeking answers about her mother’s death while trapped behind a wall of pain. She has to face loss, racism and the rungs of society socialites seeking power.

It’s an explosive adventure with deep meaning about how we connect with our ancestors, and the stories within our roots. Bree delves into the past to seek answers and you go right along with her. The last few chapters are emotionally moving. The layered storylines suck you into a portal, to another time and place.

Absolutely stunning writing! I want to go back and read it again, can not wait for book 2. One of the best YA fantasies I have ever read.

Content: Violence, depictions of slavery, racial comments, “F” word.

Quote:

“Don’t make it about the loss. Make it about the love.”

About the Author

Tracy Deonn is a writer and 2nd gen fangirl. She grew up in North Carolina, where she devoured fantasy books and Southern food in equal measure. After earning two degrees from UNC-CH, Tracy worked in live theater, video games, and K-12 education. When she’s not writing, Tracy panels at SFF conventions, reads fanfic, arranges doggy playdates, and keeps an eye out for ginger-flavored everything.

TILLBRIDGE STABLES SCAVENGER HUNT-Nina Crespo Tour

29 Jan, 2021 by in rockstar book tours 2 comments

 

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the TILLBRIDGE STABLES SCAVENGER HUNT by Nina Crespo Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post to find the secret word (it’s purple) and make sure to enter the giveaway! Make sure to follow the tour schedule at the bottom of this post for all the stops! Each word you enter is another entry for the giveaway!

 

About the Books:

Title: THE COWGIRL’S SURPRISE MATCH (Tillbridge Stables #3)

Author: Nina Crespo

Pub. Date: Paperback: January 26, 2021. eBook: February 1, 2021

Publisher: Harlequin Special Edition

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 288

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, Kindle, B&NiBooksKobo, TBD, Google Play, Bookshop.org

Free preview: https://preview.aer.io/9781488075322

Grab the paperback on January 26th before the eBook! It’s only $4.99!

A sweet charade takes an unexpected turn!

Dearly beloved, we are (not) gathered together…

Maid of honor Zurie Tillbridge has been working secretly with best man Mace Calderone to plan her cousin Tristan’s wedding to a well-known actress. To keep their wedding plans from leaking to the press, Zurie and Mace must pretend they are the ones getting married. Cake tasting and flower arranging seem like harmless fun…until wary workaholic Zurie realizes she’s feeling something real for her fake fiancé…  

 


Title: HER SWEET TEMPTATION (Tillbridge Stables #2)

Author: Nina Crespo

Pub. Date:  October 1, 2020

Publisher: Harlequin Special Edition

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 207

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, Kindle, B&NiBooksKobo, TBD, Google Play, Bookshop.org

Free Preview: https://preview.aer.io/9781488070143

When good things come in bad-boy packages.

She vows to find the right kind of guy but a tempting stranger challenges everything…

“Bad Choices” should have been Rina Tillbridge’s middle name and it’s time to turn over a new leaf. But when stuntman Scott Halsey struts onto her property for his latest film, her impulsive alter ego threatens to make a comeback. The quintessential thrill-seeking stuntman has no designs on commitment. So why are all his red flags igniting white-hot passion…and inspiring dreams of a Hollywood ending?

REVIEWS:

“Rina and Scott’s slow burn romance is emotional, lighthearted, cute, is very entertaining and addictively different.” Shaka, BookBub

“Fun flirty and super cute.” Joelle, Goodreads

If you need an escape, a distraction or if you want to have a good time, pick this romance between a cafe owner/baker and a movie stuntman.” Aly, Goodreads

 

 

Title: THE COWBOY’S CLAIM (Tillbridge Stables #1)

Author: Nina Crespo

Pub. Date: February 1, 2021

Publisher: Harlequin Special Edition

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 209

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, Kindle, B&NiBooksKobo, TBD, Google Play, Bookshop.org

Free Preview: https://preview.aer.io/The_Cowboys_Claim-MjUzMTg3-1921

He’s discovered his leading lady.

The role of her dreams: in his arms. 

Chloe Daniels is determined to land the role of a lifetime. Even if she’s terrified to get on a horse! And the last thing her reluctant teacher, Tristan Tillbridge, wants is to entertain a pampered actress. But the enigmatic cowboy soon discovers that Chloe is as genuine as she is gorgeous, and he’s determined to make her his. Will this unlikely pair discover that the sparks between them are anything but an act?

REVIEWS:

Smooth pacing, likable characters (along with Chloe and Tristan, there is Rina and Mace), and a compelling plot make THE COWBOY’S CLAIM a solid read.” Romance In Color

I loved these two together. I cannot wait to read more in this series!” Crystal, Goodreads

“If you love a series about tight-knit families, family-run businesses with lots of drama, and an opposites attract type of romance, you’ll love this new series by Nina Crespo!” Katie, Goodreads

“Watching the budding romance that happened in this story was that perfect combination of the slow burn and steaminess you could equate with a romance that will keep you reading…” Danaburk, BookBub

 

 

About Nina:

Nina Crespo lives in Florida where she indulges in her favorite passions — the beach, a good glass of wine, date night with her own real-life hero and dancing.

Her lifelong addiction to romance began in her teens while on a “borrowing spree” in her older sister’s bedroom where she discovered her first romance novel.

Let Nina’s sensual contemporary stories and steamy paranormal tales feed your own addiction for love, romance, and happily ever after.

Stay connected with Nina on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or through her newsletter.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest | Instagram | Amazon | BookBub

 

Giveaway Details:

1 winner will win a $10 Amazon Gift Card, INTERNATIONAL.

1 winner will receive  a signed print copy of a book from the Tillbridge Stables series (reader’s choice), US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Scavenger Hunt Tour Schedule:

Week One:

1/25/2021

Rockstar Book Tours

Kickoff Post/Scavenger Hunt Clue 1

1/25/2021

Lisa Loves Literature

Scavenger Hunt Clue 2

1/26/2021

BookHounds

Scavenger Hunt Clue 3

1/26/2021

A Dream Within A Dream

Scavenger Hunt Clue 4

1/27/2021

Becky on Books

Scavenger Hunt Clue 5

1/27/2021

Pass Me That Book

Scavenger Hunt Clue 6

1/28/2021

Pine Enshrined Reviews

Scavenger Hunt Clue 7

1/28/2021

The Obsessed Reader

Scavenger Hunt Clue 8

1/29/2021

Books A-Brewin’

Scavenger Hunt Clue 9

1/29/2021

Fire and Ice

Scavenger Hunt Clue 10


Week Two:

2/1/2021

Two Chicks on Books

Scavenger Hunt Clue 11

2/1/2021

Wonder Struck

Scavenger Hunt Clue 12

2/2/2021

Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers

Scavenger Hunt Clue 13

2/2/2021

The Momma Spot

Scavenger Hunt Clue 14

2/3/2021

Jaime’s World

Scavenger Hunt Clue 15

2/3/2021

The Phantom Paragrapher

Scavenger Hunt Clue 16

2/4/2021

Three gals and plenty of books

Scavenger Hunt Clue 17

2/4/2021

Westveil Publishing

Scavenger Hunt Clue 18

2/5/2021

Books a Plenty Book Reviews

Scavenger Hunt Clue 19

2/5/2021

I’m Shelf-ish

Scavenger Hunt Clue 20


</

Scavenger Hunt Clue 10

A few short months ago, Chloe Daniels, an actress, had come to Tillbridge to research life at a horse stable for an audition. They’d fallen for each other. She’d since won the part in Shadow Valley, and now Chloe and Tristan were both excited about spending more time together while she worked on the film.

“If you don’t want to bother Tristan, there is another way.” From the look in Philippa’s eyes, Rina already knew what she was going to say.

“Ask Zurie instead of Tristan for help? That’s a huge nope. First, I’d get the judgy look, then I’d get a lecture from her on what I should have done to prevent Dennis from leaving and after that, she’d try to micromanage whoever she sent over to my cafe to help out. It’s not worth the headache.”

Philippa held her hands up in surrender. “It was just a suggestion.

She is the co-manager of the entire operation along with Tristan.”

It wasn’t a bad idea, but these days, Rina didn’t have energy for the smile, ignore, deflect game she usual y played with Zurie whenever she talked to her. “Someone cal ed the cafe today looking for a job. They could work out, and who knows, Dennis could change his mind and come back.”

“Maybe.”

Rina followed Philippa’s gaze that had shifted to the two men in front of the barn. “I didn’t know middle-aged guys were your thing.

Don’t be shy. Prance on over there and say hello to him.”

“I don’t prance. I walk graceful y. And if I were interested in saying hello to anyone, it would be the guy that ran into you. He’s Nash Moreland’s stunt double, and in my opinion, he’s a lot better looking than Nash.”

Thirtyish, dirty blond hair on the longish side, a five o’clock shadow covering his angled jawline, hazel green eyes with more than a hint of mischief to match his easy smile. It did al fit together for an appealing package. “He’s okay.”

“Just okay? You wouldn’t say that if you saw him without the jacket. He had it off earlier when he came over here to ask for some water. Girl…” Philippa fanned her face. “After seeing him up close, I needed water to cool off. Too bad this film isn’t about lifeguards.”

Rina’s own imagination wandered into Philippa’s daydream territory, rewinding to when he’d effortlessly held her up while keeping the tray of pies from falling to the ground. Then it morphed into him without the jacket, wrapping his strong arms around her while she leaned into his solid, muscular chest. Heat started to flush into her cheeks, and she swept the image aside. Now wasn’t the time for fantasies.

“Everyone will be here soon. Shouldn’t you bring out the rest of the food?”

“Probably.” Even though the two men had gone back inside the barn, Philippa still stared in that direction. “He looked intense when he came over here. I wonder what he’s like when he’s not working?”

The teasing, sexy, oh-so-confidant smile he’d flashed after “saving the pies” came into Rina’s mind.

Nash Moreland’s double sailed out of the barn, and in one fluid movement, he rolled to a crouching position with the prop pistol in his hand.

The way he performed that stunt so easily and mindlessly told Rina al she needed to know. Just like Xavier, he viewed himself as invincible.

“Almost ran you over. And like I said. It was my greatest stunt ever.”

“You’re still sticking with that, huh?”

“Yep. And it will always be the greatest.” His smile lit up the love in his eyes and touched her heart. “Because it gave me you.”

Divider

The Christmas Promise by Janice Carter Blog Tour and Giveaway

22 Jan, 2021 by in Uncategorized Leave a comment

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

The Christmas Promise By Janice Carter Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 216 Pages January 1, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The Christmas season…

Is perfect for new beginnings

After a tragedy seventeen years ago, author Ella Jacobs never wanted to come back to Lighthouse Cove. Not to the whispered rumors, the judgment or even to Ben Winters, the boy she loved. Now she’s returned in time for Christmas—and some much-needed closure. But old flames burn bright. Can Ella find her way back to Ben…or will the secrets of their past extinguish their love for good?

(Affiliate links included.) Goodreads | Amazon | B&N | Bookshop | Book Depository Harlequin Target | Walmart | BAM | IndieBound | Apple Books Kobo | GooglePlay

About the Author

Writing has been a passion for Janice Carter since elementary school but her second career after teaching began with the publication of a Harlequin Intrigue, many years ago. Since then, she’s been very lucky to be able to do what she enjoys most – writing about the connections between people, their families and the places where they live. And of course, love is always at the heart of those connections.

Heartwarming Authors Blog | Goodreads | Twitter

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

Three winners will each receive print copies of His Saving Grace and Her Kind of Hero along with a $10 Amazon eGift Card (open to US/CAN)

Ends January 27, 2021

ENTER HERE

Grab Our Button!

Review

The Christmas Promise is a redemptive story of a YA adult author who returns to the town of a tragic accident. Ella comes in search of closure and apologies. Her whole life she has carried the burden of being wrongly accused. As she returns, the town erupts in whispers, dirty looks and snubbing. It’s as if no time has passed. The Winters family has so much to discover and heal from as do the residents of their town. The Christmas Promise is a tale with a theme of forgiveness. The events allow many to experience growth and change. Lighthouse Cove is the perfect setting for this holiday romance–a tourist town divided between regular residents ad Summer vacationers. The plot is a bit repetitive in spots as so many characters have to work through and confess their secrets. By the end Ben Winters wins readers over. Good, clean Christmas romance in a beautiful setting. I received a complimentary copy for this tour.

Divider

RISING STAR by Michele Kwasniewski Blog Tour and Giveaway

21 Jan, 2021 by in Uncategorized Leave a comment

 

I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the RISING STAR by Michele Kwasniewski Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

About The Book:

Title: RISING STAR

Author: Michele Kwasniewski

Pub. Date: October 20, 2020

Publisher: Rand-Smith LLC

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 268

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

In the first book in THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series, RISING STAR, fifteen-year-old Dani Truehart is living a life that is not quite her own. Driven by her mother’s desire for fame and fortune, she has spent her childhood dutifully training for a career as a pop star. On the brink of discovery, doubts begin to creep into Dani’s mind as she questions her own desire for fame, and she wonders whether she can trust the motivations of the adults who are driving her forward.

Following a brilliant audition arranged by her vocal/dance coach and former ’80s pop icon Martin Fox, Dani is thrown full-force into the music industry. She leaves her friends, family and scheming mother behind to move with Martin, who has become her legal guardian, into the Malibu compound of her new manager, Jenner Redman. Jenner, the former swindling manager of Martin’s boy band, leverages what’s left of his depleted fortune to launch Dani’s career.

Isolated from her life at home and trying to stay apace with her demanding schedule, Dani struggles to keep in touch with those she loves, connect to her withholding mother and find her voice as an artist. With Martin and Jenner at odds over their rocky past and finding herself unprepared to handle the pressures of her future singing career, Dani’s debut album and future stardom are at risk of falling apart.

 

 

About Michele:

Michele Kwasniewski, is an entertainment industry insider who has seen what the Hollywood machine can do to people – having worked for many years in film and television production on such films and TV shows as Primal FearIndependence DayEvita, Face/OffBig Brother, and many TCL, HGTV, and Discovery series including: Meet the Pandas, Adoption Story, Wedding Story, and Extra Yardage. 

With her book, she shares the glamour and excitement of fame as well as the hard work it takes to achieve success and the price of living life in the public eye.  Everyone wants to be famous, but most people have no idea what that really means.  Michele has seen it firsthand.  She is an active member of the Producers Guild of America.

Michele’s colorful experiences in the industry inspired her to write THE RISE AND FALL OF DANI TRUEHART series. Michele lives in San Clemente, California with her husband, their son, and their disobedient dachshund. RISING STAR is her first novel.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Amazon | Goodreads

 


Giveaway Details:

3 lucky winners will win signed copy of RISING STAR & RISING STAR pencils, US Only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

1/18/2021

Rockstar Book Tours

Kickoff Post

1/18/2021

JaimeRockstarBookTours

Instagram Post

1/19/2021

BookHounds YA

Interview

1/19/2021

BookHounds

Instagram Post

1/20/2021

Down The Rabbit Hole

Guest Post

1/20/2021

@booknerd84

Instagram Post

1/21/2021

A Dream Within A Dream

Guest Post

1/21/2021

Living in a Bookworld

Excerpt

1/22/2021

Books A-Brewin’

Guest Post

1/22/2021

Books A-Brewin’

Instagram Post

 

Week Two:

1/25/2021

The Scribe Owl

Review

1/25/2021

Three gals and plenty of books

Guest Post

1/26/2021

Wonder Struck

Review

1/26/2021

Jaime’s World

Excerpt

1/27/2021

The Phantom Paragrapher

Review

1/27/2021

The Phantom Paragrapher

Instagram Post

1/28/2021

Pine Enshrined Reviews

Review

1/28/2021

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt

1/29/2021

Lifestyle of Me

Review

1/29/2021

Jotted by Jena

Excerpt


The Forever Girl by Jill Shalvis Tour and Giveaway

19 Jan, 2021 by in Uncategorized Leave a comment

THE FOREVER GIRL

by Jill Shalvis

Wildstone #6

Paperback, 400 pages

Published January 12th 2021 by William Morrow Paperbacks

Amazon

When Maze returns to Wildstone for the wedding of her estranged bff and the sister of her heart, it’s also a reunion of a once ragtag team of teenagers who had only each other until a tragedy tore them apart and scattered them wide.

Now as adults together again in the lake house, there are secrets and resentments mixed up in all the amazing childhood memories. Unexpectedly, they instantly fall back into their roles: Maze their reckless leader, Cat the den mother, Heather the beloved baby sister, and Walker, a man of mystery. 

Life has changed all four of them in immeasurable ways. Maze and Cat must decide if they can rebuild their friendship, and Maze discovers her long-held attraction to Walker hasn’t faded with the years but has only grown stronger.

REVIEW

It’s been a really long time since I have laughed out loud reading a book. Jill’s cast of characters won me over! Foster children now adults, they reunite for their sister Cat’s wedding. One week of memories from their childhood and new life situations to navigate.They have to overcome the ghosts of accidental death and heartbreak. Now they face the dynamic of a stressful wedding and an overbearing mother-in-law. My favorite duo were Walker and Maze. What a complex, yet perfect couple. Reminiscent of the movie Sweet Home Alabama. This can be read as a standalone. Content is adult. Thanks so much to William Morrow for such a fun read!

ABOUT JILL SHALVIS

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website, www.jillshalvis.com, for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Connect with Jill

Website: http://jillshalvis.com/

Facebook: @JillShalvis

Twitter: @JillShalvis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillshalvis/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis/

Tumblr: http://jillshalvis.tumblr.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22370.Jill_Shalvis?from_search=true

BUY LINKS for THE FOREVER GIRL:

Amazon

IndieBound

Barnes & Noble

Books-A-Million

Bookshop.org

Giveaway

One Copy of The Forever Girl, U.S. addresses only.

Enter here

BLOG TOUR

1/11/2021            Reading Between the Wines Book Club   Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            Good Choice Reading                                     Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            Deluged with Books Cafe                              Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            OMGReads                                                         Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Leona Woolfolk                                                 Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Once Upon A Page                                           Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Coffee Books Life                                             Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            A Southern Girls Bookshelf                          Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            Romantic Reads and Such                             Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            Star-Crossed Book Blog                                  Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Love Romances and More Reviews          Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/12/2021            Moonlight Rendezvous                                  Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Carole’s Random Life in Books                    Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/12/2021            Sassy Moms Say Read Romance                 Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/13/2021            Red Hot + Blue Reads                                     Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/13/2021            Into the Hall of Books                                     Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/13/2021            The Reading Cafe                                             Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/14/2021            Obsessive Reading Disorder                        Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/14/2021            Bea’s Book Nook                                              Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/14/2021            Book Reviews & More by Kathy                 Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/15/2021            Angel’s Guilty Pleasures                                Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/15/2021            The Romance Dish                                           Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/15/2021            Chick Lit Central                                                Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/15/2021            Mile High Kink Book Club                              Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/15/2021            Abigail Books Addiction                                 Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/17/2021            Dog-Eared Daydreams                                   Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/17/2021            Reads2Love                                                        Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/18/2021            Laura’s Reviews                                                Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/18/2021            Hines and Bigham’s Literary Tryst              Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/18/2021            The Consummate Reader                             Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/18/2021            Becky on Books                                                 Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/18/2021            Traveling With T                                                Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            Totally Addicted to Reading                         Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            Dawn’s Reading Nook                                    Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/19/2021            Sofia Loves Books                                            Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            Wastepaper Prose                                           Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            The Mary Book Reader                                  Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            Fire and Ice                                                         Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/19/2021            Fire and Ice                                                         Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/20/2021            Book Lover in Florida                                      Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/20/2021            booknerd                                                            Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/20/2021            Eskimo Princess Book Reviews                   Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/20/2021            Booklovers For Life                                          Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/20/2021            #NerdProblems                                                Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/21/2021            Ramblings of a Daydreamer                        Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/21/2021            Two Book Pushers                                           Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/22/2021            Nicole’s Book Musings                                   Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/22/2021            Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers            Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/23/2021            Dirty Girl Romance                                          Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/25/2021            Renee Entress’s Blog                                       Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/25/2021            Mrs Mommy Booknerd’s Book Reviews Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/25/2021            Renee Entress’s Blog                                       Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/26/2021            MI Bookshelf                                                     Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/26/2021            Teatime and Books                                          Showcase/Spotlight with excerpt

1/26/2021            Book Mama Blog                                              Review + Giveaway (US only)

1/26/2021            Movies, Shows, & Books                               Review + Giveaway (US only)

Chain of Gold by Cassandra Claire

16 Jan, 2021 by in Uncategorized Leave a comment

Chain of Gold

The Last Hours #1

by Cassandra Clare

Hardcover

592 pages

Published March 3rd 2020

by Margaret K. McElderry Books

Amazon

Chain of Gold, a Shadowhunters novel, is the first novel in a brand-new trilogy where evil hides in plain sight and love cuts deeper than any blade. .

Cordelia Carstairs is a Shadowhunter, a warrior trained since childhood to battle demons. When her father is accused of a terrible crime, she and her brother travel to London in hopes of preventing the family’s ruin. Cordelia’s mother wants to marry her off, but Cordelia is determined to be a hero rather than a bride. Soon Cordelia encounters childhood friends James and Lucie Herondale and is drawn into their world of glittering ballrooms, secret assignations, and supernatural salons, where vampires and warlocks mingle with mermaids and magicians. All the while, she must hide her secret love for James, who is sworn to marry someone else.

But Cordelia’s new life is blown apart when a shocking series of demon attacks devastate London. These monsters are nothing like those Shadowhunters have fought before—these demons walk in daylight, strike down the unwary with incurable poison, and seem impossible to kill. London is immediately quarantined. Trapped in the city, Cordelia and her friends discover that their own connection to a dark legacy has gifted them with incredible powers—and forced a brutal choice that will reveal the true cruel price of being a hero.

Review

How did I not know a Cassandra Clare book was exactly what I needed in life right now? My, oh my, I had forgotten how much I love the magic she weaves. Much like the Infernal Devices, Chain of Gold took me to the land of Shadowhunters, rich gowns and kick a heroines. Cassie brought me back to the escape we all seek and rekindled my first love, for reading YA. I may have to dust off my Mortal Instruments series and give them a re-read after seeing Magnus Bain and the Herrondales again. Chain of Gold was incredible. There were so many hidden gems of knowledge and wisdom in the story line, especially from silent brother Jem.

“Do not let those who cannot see the truth tell you who you are. You are a flame 🔥 that can not be put out. You are the star that cannot be lost. You are who you have always been, and that is enough and more than enough.”- Jem.

I was immersed in London, in the Victorian taverns and downworlder hot spots. Cassie is a master at Fantasy. ( I ordered three more of her books today) Can not wait for book two of the Last Hours to come out in March. If you need to start off 2021 right, pick up this series.

Thank you McElderry books for the review copy!

Content: drinking, passionate kissing, LGBTQ relationships, moderate violence

About the Author

“Cassandra Clare was born overseas and spent her early years traveling around the world with her family and several trunks of fantasy books. Cassandra worked for several years as an entertainment journalist for the Hollywood Reporter before turning her attention to fiction. She is the author of City of Bones, the first book in the Mortal Instruments trilogy and a New York Times bestseller. Cassandra lives with her fiance and their two cats in Massachusetts.”

Website:
www.cassandraclare.com

Blog:

http://cassandraclare.livejournal.com/

Facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/Cassandraclare

Twitter:

www.twitter.com/cassieclare

Divider

Ballet Orphans Book Tour and Giveaway

14 Jan, 2021 by in Uncategorized 1 comment

 

Fire and Ice is hosting a spot on the BALLET ORPHANS by Terez Mertes Rose Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

About The Book:

Title: BALLET ORPHANS : A Prequel (Ballet Theatre Chronicles Book 3)

Author: Terez Mertes Rose

Pub. Date: January 2, 2021

Publisher: Classical Girl Press

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 372

Find it:  GoodreadsAmazon, KindleB&N, TBD, Bookshop.org

Read For FREE With A Kindle Unlimited Membership!

It’s 1990, and New York soloist April Manning is trying to rebalance her world in the aftermath of her parents’ deaths. An offer to join the struggling West Coast Ballet Theatre as a principal dancer seems like the perfect opportunity for a fresh start—a new life in San Francisco, an exciting step up in her career, and the hope of a redefined sense of family. But the other dancers are wary, clannish and tight-lipped, particularly about an incident that hastened the departure of their beloved artistic director, leading to the arrival of his replacement, the young, inexperienced Anders Gunst. And no one wants to talk about Jana, a former company member who defiantly walked out rather than work under Anders. It is Jana herself who offers April hints, and even friendship, where she reveals a loneliness and hunger to belong that newly orphaned April well understands. But there is something troubling about Jana, and what April doesn’t know could prove deadly.

A prequel to the Ballet Theatre Chronicles, BALLET ORPHANS explores the work and sacrifices required to arrive at the highest tiers of the professional ballet world, coupled with the primal, universal desire to belong, to love and be loved, and the lengths we’ll go to protect those we call family.

“A stimulating and entertaining tale in which passion and art intermingle.” — Kirkus Reviews

 

 

Review: Ballet Orphans highlights the highly competitive, all engrossing life of a professional ballerina. The main character loses her family figuratively, in pursuit of her dreams and literally. She has a lot of growth to make in this book from an unsure second to a principal dancer. I enjoyed the setting and the depth of the characters, as well as the realistic portayal of life as a dancer. It is a bit of a heavy read with many inner and personal battles. The terminology will be tough for those who are not familiar with ballet positions. There is a glossary for the readers at the back of the book. Overall, I thought the author did a great job of immersing us in the lives of two ballet companies and the transition from one to the next. Content: moderate swearing, drinking

 

About Terez: 

Terez Mertes Rose is a writer and former ballet dancer whose work has appeared in the Crab Orchard Review, Literary Mama, Women Who Eat (Seal Press), A Woman’s Europe (Travelers’ Tales), the Philadelphia Inquirer and the San Jose Mercury News. She reviews dance performances for Bachtrack.com and blogs about ballet and classical music at The Classical Girl. The author of the Ballet Theatre Chronicles and A Dancer’s Guide to Africa, she makes her home with family in the Santa Cruz Mountains. She loves good food, good wine, great books, and a good (but not too hard) adult ballet class. She’s proud to announce that Outside the Limelight, Book 2 of the Ballet Theatre Chronicles, was named a Best Book of 2017 by Kirkus Reviews.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

 

Giveaway Details:

2 winners will win a 2 tote bags of Ballet Theatre Chronicles, the previous one, a finished copy of BALLET ORPHANS, a $25 gift card either to Amazon or Bookshop Santa Cruz, US Only.

1 winner will win a tote bag of Ballet Theatre Chronicles, a finished copy of BALLET ORPHANS, a $25 gift card to Bookshop Santa Cruz, US Only. 1 winner will win a tote bag of Ballet Theatre Chronicles, a finished copy of BALLET ORPHANS, US Only. 2 winners will receive a $5 Amazon Gift Card and an eBook of BALLET ORPHANS, International.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

1/4/2021

JaimeRockstarBookTours

Instagram Post

1/5/2021

BookHounds

Excerpt

1/6/2021

Jaime’s World

Excerpt

1/7/2021

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt

1/8/2021

I’m Shelf-ish

Excerpt

 

Week Two:

1/11/2021

She Just Loves Books

Review

1/12/2021

Pick a good book

Review

1/13/2021

Hurn Publications

Excerpt

1/14/2021

Fire and Ice

Review

1/15/2021

Lisa Loves Literature

Excerpt

 

Week Three:

1/18/2021

Books and Zebras @jypsylynn

Review

1/19/2021

The Obsessed Reader

Excerpt

1/20/2021

Books a Plenty Book Reviews

Review

1/21/2021

Books A-Brewin’

Excerpt

1/22/2021

@more_books_yes_please_

Review

 

Week Four:

1/25/2021

Three gals and plenty of books

Excerpt

1/26/2021

@minnesota_mailer

Review

1/27/2021

Jotted by Jena

Excerpt

1/28/2021

Pine Enshrined Reviews

Review

1/29/2021

Two Points of Interest

Review

 


Divider

Georgana’s Secret by Arlem Hawks Blog Tour

12 Jan, 2021 by in Shadow Mountain Leave a comment

  • Title: Georgana’s Secret (Proper Romance Regency)
  • Author: Arlem Hawks
  • Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Inspirational Fiction
  • Publisher: Shadow Mountain Publishing (January 12, 2021)
  • Length: (320) pages
  • Trade Paperback ISBN: 978-1629727929
  • eBook ASIN: B08Q5MW1SG
  • Audiobook ASIN: B08RLRZ65Q
  • Tour Dates: January 11 – February 14, 2021

A Regency romance on the high seas. Two hearts yearning to find a safe harbor, and possibly, a lasting love.

As a young girl, Georgana Woodall dreamed of beautiful dresses, fancy balls, and falling in love. However, when her mother dies, she cannot face a future under the guardianship of her abusive grandmother and instead chooses to join her father on his ship disguised as his cabin boy, “George.”

Lieutenant Dominic Peyton has no time in his life for love, not with his dedication to His Majesty’s Royal Navy claiming his full attention. While trying to adjust to a new crew, he strives to be an exemplary officer and leader. When he sees the captain’s cabin boy being harassed by the crew, he immediately puts a stop to it and takes the “boy” under his wing. After discovering a number of clues, Dominic deduces that George is really a woman. Knowing that revealing the cabin boy’s secret would put her in serious danger from the rowdy crew, Dominic keeps silent and hides his growing affection for her.

Georgana is quickly losing her heart to Dominic’s compassion and care but is convinced nothing can come of her affection. She cannot continue to live her life on the sea, and having already missed too many seasons in London, her chances of being welcomed back into polite society and finding a suitable husband are quickly slipping away.

ADVANCE PRAISE:

“Hawks crafts a spellbinding tale featuring rich characters and raw emotions set against the atmospheric backdrop of sea life in all its danger and beauty. Georgana is a tough protagonist holding her own in a world dominated by men, while Peyton’s charm and sensitivity marks him as a true gentleman. A hidden identity, flirtation, and treachery make for a rousing tale to captivate lovers of historical romances.”— Publishers Weekly

“This tale felt sweepingly cinematic at times and was both action-packed and heart-wrenching with an immersive narrative.”— Katie Jackson, RegencyProofreading.com

Arlem Hawks wove a magnificent tale of adventure and deception and delivered a happy ever after that was as unconventional as the rest of the story. With so many stories of romance out there, it is refreshing when one comes along that is very different than the stories that I am used to. A little adventure always livens things up fabulously.”— Emily Flynn, Reading with Emily

“Fans of sweet love stories as well as readers who fondly remember those marvelous old traditional Signet Regencies will quickly succumb to the siren song of Hawk’s expertly crafted novel, which delivers the perfect blend of Jane Austen-smart romance and Patrick O’Brian flavored seafaring adventure. Teen romance readers will cheer on the plucky heroine as she finds the courage to forge her own path in life and love.”— Booklist, starred review

AUTHOR BIO:

Arlem Hawks began making up stories before she could write. Living all over the Western United States and traveling around the world gave her a love of cultures and people and the stories they have to tell. With her travels came an interest in history, especially the history of her English heritage. When she isn’t writing, Arlem is baking her characters’ favorite foods, sewing Regency dresses, learning how to play the tin whistle, and water coloring. She lives in Arizona with her husband and two children. Having previously published four historical romance novellas, Georgana’s Secret is her debut novel.

WEBSITE | TWITTER | FACEBOOK | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM

 | BOOKBUB | YOUTUBE | GOODREADS

Join the virtual blog tour of GEORGANA’S SECRET (Proper Romance Regency), Arlem Hawks’ highly acclaimed debut historical romance novel January 11 – February 14, 2021. Over forty-five popular blogs specializing in historical romance, inspirational fiction, and Austenesque fiction will join in the celebration of its release with excerpts, spotlights, and reviews of this new Regency-era novel set aboard a Royal Naval ship.

BLOG TOUR SCHEDULE:

Jan 11          My Jane Austen Book Club                           Excerpt

Jan 11          Austenprose — A Jane Austen Blog             Review

Jan 12          Wishful Endings                                            Review

Jan 12          Lu Reviews Books                                         Review

Jan 13          Lady with a Quill                                           Review

Jan 13          Timeless Novels                                            Review

Jan 14          Reading is My Superpower                            Review

Jan 14          The Bibliophile Files                                      Review

Jan 15          Randi Loves 2 Read                                      Review

Jan 16          The Christian Fiction Girl                               Excerpt

Jan 17          Nurse Bookie                                                 Review

Jan 18          The Silver Petticoat Review                           Review

Jan 18          Heidi Reads                                                   Review

Jan 19          Bookfoolery                                                   Review

Jan 20          Captivated Reading                                       Review

Jan 21          Greenish Bookshelf                                       Review

Jan 21          Bookworm Lisa                                             Review

Jan 22          Among the Reads                                         Review

Jan 23          Gwedalyn’s Books                                         Review

Jan 24          My Bookish Bliss                                          Review

Jan 25          Wishful Endings                                            Excerpt

Jan 25          Christian Chick’s Thoughts                           Review

Jan 26          Relz Reviewz                                                 Review

Jan 27          The Lit Bitch                                                  Review

Jan 28          Reading with Emily                                       Review

Jan 29          Books, Teacups & Reviews                           Review

Jan 30          A Darn Good Read                                         Review

Jan 31          From Pemberley to Milton                             Spotlight

Jan 31          Impressions in Ink                                         Review

Feb 01          Austenesque Reviews                                   Review

Feb 02          Laura’s Reviews                                            Review

Feb 03          Literary Time Out                                          Review

Feb 04          Chicks, Rogues & Scandals                          Excerpt

Feb 05          The Bluestocking                                         Review

Feb 05          Library of Clean Reads                                  Review

Feb 06          The Caffeinated Bibliophile                           Spotlight

Feb 07          So Little Time…                                             Spotlight

Feb 08          The Readathon                                              Review

Feb 09          The Book Diva Reads                                    Excerpt

Feb 09          Books and Socks Rock                                 Review

Feb 10          Our Book Confessions                                  Review

Feb 10          Encouraging Words from the Tea Queen      Spotlight

Feb 11          Rosanne E. Lortz                                           Review

Feb 11          Jorie Loves a Story                                       Review

Feb 12          Fire & Ice                                                       Excerpt

Feb 13          Cup of Tea with that Book, Please                Review

Feb 14          Book Confessions of an Ex-ballerina            Review

PURCHASE LINKS:

AMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY | BOOKSHOP

| INDIEBOUND | DESERET BOOK | GOODREADS

The Secrets We Keep by Nikki Lee Taylor Release Day Blitz and Giveaway

11 Jan, 2021 by in rockstar book tours Leave a comment

 

I am so excited that THE SECRETS WE KEEP by Nikki Lee Taylor is available now and that I get to share the news!

If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book, be sure to check out all the details below.

This blitz also includes a giveaway for a $10 Amazon GC courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours & Nikki. So if you’d like a chance to win, check out the giveaway info below.

 

About The Book:

Title: THE SECRETS WE KEEP

Author: Nikki Lee Taylor

Pub. Date: January 11, 2021

Publisher: Magpie Creative Media

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 288

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, Kindle, B&N,

Read for FREE with a Kindle Unlimited Membership!

Not all mothers are created equal… Some are better at hiding the truth.

Crippled with anxiety, Sophie is desperate to overcome the pain of losing her husband and only child in a freak car accident. Living and working in isolation with only the company of her dog Miss Molly, Sophie agrees to take on a job reviewing the manuscript of an up-and-coming writer. But this isn’t any story. It is one that unearths old secrets and to discover the truth, Sophie must find the courage to embark on a search that will change her life forever.

​On the outside, Love Mommy blogging queen Madelyn-May has it all. To her online community she is the perfect mother. She has a successful husband, perfect twins, and an idyllic life. What they don’t know is Madelyn-May also has a secret. When her past collides with the present, Madelyn-May is forced to make a choice that could destroy everything she loves.

​Would you risk destroying a family, if it meant healing your own heart? Would you tell the truth, if it meant losing everything you love?

​The Secrets We Keep is a confronting look at the complexities of family and lengths a mother will go to for her child.

 

Excerpt

The blinds are drawn because I need them to be. There are days the light is welcome, but not today. Today I need the darkness. It is the best way I know to pull them in close, here in the dark, in the empty spaces where they no longer exist and yet still take up every particle of air.

My life. My love. My family. James and Josh. My husband and son, stolen while I was sleeping, peacefully unaware at that very moment that the entire world was shattering.

It’s the small things that hurt the most. An unexpected letter with his name on it. A television commercial for Linvilla Orchards – where we picked peaches every July, just the two of us at first, and then with Josh. His familiar scent trailing behind a stranger, its ghostly arms wrapping around my lungs and squeezing. The crisp sting of empty sheets as autumn turns to winter.

Worst of all: the sudden ring of a child’s laughter breaking the silence and tearing my heart into a thousand tiny pieces.

I stroke the fur on Miss Molly’s golden head and close my eyes. “I’m sorry,” I whisper, even though dogs don’t understand apologies. “It’s this day, it’s….”

I let the words trail off, unable to say out loud that five years ago my husband and son took their last breath, trapped in a car wreck, and I hadn’t been there. Unable to say that while they were dying, I lay peacefully in bed, useless and selfish, taking an afternoon nap. It hadn’t even woken me. I hadn’t sat up, my instincts kicking into overdrive. I hadn’t experienced so much as a bad dream.

At the time friends told me I should try to forgive myself, that it wasn’t my fault. They brought soup, and sent messages. They held me and promised things would get better. They stood on my stoop and reminded me, “There’s nothing you could have done.”  

Therapists call my depression and anxiety a form of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Survivor’s guilt, they say, although that’s not the official term. Apparently it’s natural for parents who outlive their children to experience a sense of blame, but I have struggled to believe there is anything natural about it. Could there be anything more unnatural than for a mother to bury her son?

Then there were the people who told me to have faith. I’ve never been a religious person, but I have stood alone on a rainy afternoon and heard the hollow thump of dirt shoveled onto a tiny white casket. I’ve heard the mournful cry of a loon as people, not knowing what else to say, turned and made the sad walk back to their cars. I have stood as day turned to night, staring at two holes in the ground, hoping my husband and son wouldn’t be cold on the first night away from their beds. Away from me. Having faith would mean believing James and Josh were taken for a reason, that there was some divinity to their absence. There is not. There is only pain and empty spaces.

I get up from the couch and pull the curtains further across. But no matter how dark I make the room, there are always slivers of light that keep me in the place I don’t want to be.

Slivers that never let me bury the one question I still have no answer for.

How do I ever find the strength to step into the light when they are forever lost in the dark?

 

About Nikki:

Nikki Lee Taylor is a long-time newspaper journalist turned fiction writer. She is also a dreamer, a doer, a storyteller, a coffee lover, and fur mum to two golden retrievers Max and Sam.

She spends most of her time staring into space, walking between worlds, and creating out-loud character dialogue that sounds a lot like talking to herself in the shower. She stays up late plotting and planning the lives of characters yet to be created and starts every day embraced by the warmth of a good coffee.

She is a courageous booktrovert who lives life with her right foot in NSW, Australia and the left in a world that exists only in her head.

She reads books out loud to anyone who’ll listen and drives her husband mad spending all her free time with friends who exist only on the page.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads

 

Giveaway Details:

1 lucky winner will win a $10 Amazon Gift Card, International.


a Rafflecopter giveaway