Review & Giveaway: Captive by Aimee Carter (Blog Tour)

Welcome to our stop on the CAPTIVE by Aimee Carter blog tour, hosted by...

Kismet Book Touring

Originally, I was going to share a video review with you all, but unfortunately I am not that tech savvy, and could not figure out how to upload the video to my computer from my phone. Things were a lot simpler when I had an Apple phone. :-P

Anyway, I am going to share my thoughts on the book, but first -- about the book. 

For the past two months, Kitty Doe's life has been a lie. Forced to impersonate the Prime Minister's niece, her frustration grows as her trust in her fake fiancé cracks, her real boyfriend is forbidden and the Blackcoats keep her in the dark more than ever.

But in the midst of discovering that her role in the Hart family may not be as coincidental as she thought, she's accused of treason and is forced to face her greatest fear: Elsewhere. A prison where no one can escape.

As one shocking revelation leads to the next, Kitty learns the hard way that she can trust no one, not even the people she thought were on her side. With her back against the wall, Kitty wants to believe she'll do whatever it takes to support the rebellion she believes in—but is she prepared to pay the ultimate price?

For those who don't know, CAPTIVE is the second book in Aimee Carter's THE BLACKCOAT REBELLION series.

I want to start off by saying that I absolutely loved PAWN. I thought PAWN was amazing, and felt that all the characters were well written, and very likable. It's a 5 STAR book for me. When I got the chance to read CAPTIVE I jumped right at the opportunity because I was dying to know what happens next, and what is Kitty's next move.

CAPTIVE opens up with a bang. Aimee Carter doesn't waste a lot of time recapping book one. She dives right into the story giving you bits and pieces throughout every chapter on book one to help refresh your memory. The story is non-stop from beginning to end. There is plenty of surprising moments, twist, suspense, and betrayal from beginning to end. There is also a lot of O-M-G moments. I literally was at the edge of my seat more than half of the book. Some parts were very predictable, and some left me with my mouth open. That is one of the things I loved most about PAWN, and now about CAPTIVE. I just love how Aimee Carter can make you smile on one page, and the next you're like wait, what?

I do have some slight issues with the book, though.

In PAWN one of the things I loved most about Kitty was her need/want to survive. She would do anything to survive.. Because of that she was a fighter. She did what she had to do, and she thought everything through before taking action. She knew she did not want to live life that was mapped out for her, and she fought for that. But in CAPTIVE, I felt like she still had this want, this need to survive and stay on top, but she was very careless. I don't know if Aimee Carter did this intentionally, but my love for Kitty died a little in this book. This is where the predictable parts of the story play in. Once anyone told Kitty not to do something, and think, she would do the opposite. I literally got so frustrated I was shaking my kindle like if Kitty was standing right in front me. True story (LOL). I just couldn't connect with her in this story as much as I did in the first. Some parts I understood why she did what she did, and then there were parts where I felt could have been avoided had Kitty just sat in a chair peacefully (not literally).

I still have a love for Kitty, but her character definitely changed in CAPTIVE, and I don't know if it was a good thing or bad thing... yet. I will say that I am still planning on continuing the series, and cannot wait for book three. As always, Aimee Carter revealed a secret near the end of the story that I am just dying to know how it plays out in book three.

This is definitely a series I HIGHLY recommend.

3.5 Stars! 

GRAB YOUR COPY TODAY

Amazon | IndieBound |  Barnes & Noble |  Book Depository

One winner will receive a fantastic grand prize package including a boxed set of the Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa as well as copies of both CAPTIVE and PAWN.

• Please enter via the Rafflecopter form. 
• Giveaway is open to US/Canada. 
• This giveaway is sponsored by HarlequinTeen.

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About the author....

Aimée Carter was born and raised in Michigan, where she currently resides. She started writing at age eleven and later attended the University of Michigan, graduating with a degree in screen arts and cultures. Currently she spends her time working on her new dystopian series, the first of which is PAWN. Catch updates on her website, www.AimeeCarter.com or Tweet her at @Aimee_Carter.

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Thank you for stopping by!

Review: The Last Breath by Kimberly Belle

The Last Breath
By: Kimberly Belle
Expected publication:
September 30th 2014
by Harlequin MIRA

Amazon † B&N † Author Site

Humanitarian aid worker Gia Andrews chases disasters around the globe for a living. It's the perfect lifestyle to keep her far away from her own personal ground zero. Sixteen years ago, Gia's father was imprisoned for brutally killing her stepmother. Now he's come home to die of cancer, and she's responsible for his care—and coming to terms with his guilt.

Gia reluctantly resumes the role of daughter to the town's most infamous murderer, a part complete with protesters on the lawn and death threats that are turning tragedy into front-page news. Returning to life in small-town Tennessee involves rebuilding relationships that distance and turmoil have strained, though finding an emotional anchor in the attractive hometown bartender is certainly helping Gia cope.

As the past unravels before her, Gia will find herself torn between the stories that her family, their friends and neighbors, and even her long-departed stepmother have believed to be real all these years. But in the end, the truth—and all the lies that came before—may have deadlier consequences than she could have ever anticipated…

When I picked up this book, it completely monopolized my time and took me by total surprise. I didn't expect to enjoy it as much as I did. I had to make myself put it down but that's because the author wasted no time in bringing you the story. She wasted no time is drawing you in. And just with the prologue alone she will hook you.

I immediately felt drawn to Gia. I myself lost my dad to cancer too, so I was able to connect and sympathize with Gia right away. The thought of having to go home just to spend his last days with him is an inconceivable thought for her and for myself. But what's even worst is that she's going home to the place where her dad was found guilty of murdering his wife. So that also proves to be challenging.

In this book you get a little bit of everything. You get suspense because there's the question whether or not Gia's dad really killed his wife or not. You get drama because of her relationship with her sister and brother. BTW, I loved her sister, even though she was a bit selfish. And most of all you get romance because she meets someone who you will end up falling in love with. He made everything easier for her. As far as if she had a rough day, he would be there later to make her feel better.

I loved how Ms. Belle wrote this story. The flow was so easy. The issues and dilemma were written so addicting that I just couldn't put the book down. And she writes so good that she had me second guessing who the real murderer was. I changed my mind at least three times before I got to the end of the story. I absolutely enjoyed this book and I think those that like drama and suspense would too. The Last Breath gets 5 huge stars and it's a definite Good Choice for Reading!!

The Aftermath by Jen Alexander Blog Tour - Guest Post & Giveaway! @HarlequinTeen @Jen_Alexandr

Welcome to day FOUR of The Aftermath Blog Tour!

I’m thrilled to welcome author Jen Alexander to the blog today to introduce to you The Aftermath, a game quite unlike any other. Over the course of the tour you’ll be granted access to the game’s start up menu where you’ll learn what types of missions and challenges await you in The Aftermath, as well as the rules to which you’ll need to adhere. Be sure and follow along for the complete gaming experience, and tell us, how well do you think you’ll fare in The Aftermath?

Make sure to follow the other blogs and continue gaming.

Monday, August 4th - Two Chicks on Books - Guest Post

Wednesday, August 6th - Supernatural Snark - Author Interview

Friday, August 8th - Kimberly Faye Reads - Guest Post

Monday, August 11th - Good Choice Reading - Guest Post (You're here)

Wednesday, August 13th - Nose Graze - Author Interview

Friday, August 15th - Addicted Reader - Guest Post

About The Aftermath

Sometimes, I dream that I'm someone else.

A girl with dark hair who doesn't worry about hunger or thirst or running from flesh-eaters.

In her world, those sorts of things don't exist.

Since the spring of 2036, when the world changed forever, Claudia and a small clan of survivors have roamed the streets of a very altered Nashville: polluted and desolate, except for the ever-present threat of cannibal Hoarders. Together they must undergo punishing tests of endurance and psychological challenge sometimes with devastating consequences all just to live another day.

With food and water in dwindling supply, and with danger lurking around every corner, no one can be trusted. And as her world starts to make less and less sense, Claudia begins to realize something terrifying: she is just a pawn in some sort of game, and all of her actions are being controlled from afar by a mysterious gamer. So when she meets a maddening and fascinating outsider named Declan, who claims to be a game moderator, she must decide whether to join him in exchange for protection and access to the border.

If they play the game right, they are each other's best hope for survival and a life beyond the only world Claudia's ever known: the terrifying live-action game known as The Aftermath.

August 26th 2014 by Harlequin Teen

• Goodreads
• Pre-Order: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound | Book Depository

ARE YOU READY TO PLAY?

Main Menu

The Story

Our world went to sleep in the spring of 2036, when the sky opened up, releasing asteroids. Releasing blizzards and hailstorms and then a heat wave that blistered the land. Releasing death. When Nashville and her inhabitants awoke hours—maybe even days—later, we were all as good as dead. Our only source of food came from the few factories untouched by the storms—mostly there were protein bars, but sometimes we were fortunate enough to find other food. We prayed for water, for rain.

We hoped for a miracle.

But the cannibals came.

Welcome to The Aftermath.

New Campaign

Continue

Now that you’ve joined up with your clan, it’s time to start collecting weapons. There are a variety of weapons in The Aftermath, some of which that are more difficult to find. Locating the right weapon could mean the difference between life and death, and characters can have no more than two firearms on his person at a time—so choose wisely.

Weapons Inventory

·         Fire Power

o   Handguns: Various models of handguns can be acquired throughout the game—the most readily available being the Tech Arms Limited Edition Aftermath Glock 9mm. Designed by the top weapons manufacturer in the United Provinces, this exclusive Aftermath pistol is a replica of a popular firearm from the same era as the game. Packs a punch and holds a lot of ammo—if you know where to look for an extended magazine. This is the ideal weapon for close quarter combat or suppressive fire.

o   Rifles: A variety of rifles can be acquired but they are more difficult to find than handguns. Most rifles within the world of The Aftermath give gamers the ability to shoot from a greater distance and hit targets through wooden and plaster walls—so it’s no surprise they’re the weapon of choice for the running-gun type of gamer. While rifles give you a significant advantage in a firefight due to their high magazine capacity and faster rate of fire, carrying these weapons and large amounts of ammo will fatigue your character quicker. For the gamer who likes to stalk his prey? Get your hands on a sniper rifle.

o   Grenades: A quick way to eliminate multiple opponents and clear a flesh-eater den, frag grenades are found throughout the game. Want to make a hasty getaway? Drop a smoke grenade—or two.

·         Bladed Weapons

o   Buck Knife: There are multiple types of bladed weapons that can be found in The Aftermath, including throwing knives and swords, but the most popular is your standard buck knife. Medium-sized and lightweight, they’re easy to maneuver during a fight.

o   Machetes: Used for cutting small trees and branches, these long-bladed weapons carry enough whack to get flesh-eaters out your way.

·         Yourself

o   The most readily available weapon in The Aftermath is your own character. This is the weapon you start the game with, and when things get crazy—and you find yourself with no weapon—your character may be your only chance at survival. Kick, punch, knee, and elbow your way out of a flesh-eater den, but remember, hand-to-hand combat is extremely taxing on your character’s HP and endurance. Even when you’re the winner, you’ll always come out damaged. Especially when you’re battling multiple enemies.

Community

Settings

Exit

About Jen Alexander

A native of North Carolina, Jen Alexander spent her childhood with her nose buried in either a book or a video game, and sometimes both at the same time. Following a dream about a character trapped inside a live-action video game, Jen was encouraged by her husband to write The Aftermath, which is her debut novel. In her spare time, she enjoys time with her family, going to the gym, and trying to beat agonizingly tough levels of God of War and Call of Duty.

Jen is represented by Mollie Glick at Foundry Literary + Media.


Find Jen: WEBSITE † FACEBOOK † PINTEREST † TWITTER † GOOGLE +

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Review: I Want It That Way by Ann Aguirre

I Want It That Way
By Ann Aguirre
Paperback, 352 pages
Expected publication: August 26th 2014 by Harlequin HQN
NEW ADULT

GoodReads † Amazon † B&N † iBooks

Nadia Conrad has big dreams, and she's determined to make them come true—for her parents' sake as well as her own. But between maintaining her college scholarship and working at the local day care to support herself, she barely has time to think, let alone date. Then she moves into a new apartment and meets the taciturn yet irresistible guy in 1B….

Daniel Tyler has grown up too fast. Becoming a single dad at twenty turned his life upside down—and brought him heartache he can't risk again. Now, as he raises his four-year-old son while balancing a full-time construction management job and night classes, a social life is out of the question. The last thing he wants is for four noisy students to move into the apartment upstairs. But one night, Nadia's and Ty's paths cross, and soon they can't stay away from each other.

The timing is all wrong—but love happens when it happens. And you can't know what you truly need until you stand to lose it.

I think Ann Aguirre should continue writing New Adult. If the next two books in this series are anything like I WANT IT THAT WAY, then I am already sold!

What really pulled me into the story were the characters. They were realistic and very likable. I loved the friendship Nadia had with her roommates. I cannot even begin to tell you how many times I laughed out loud. Not just with her and her roommates, but her relationship with Ty, too. Right from the beginning they had a very open relationship. They were honest with each other and basically said whatever came to their minds.

Ty was a very interesting character. I wanted to know more about his background and learn why he was a single dad. Ann Aguirre doesn’t make it a huge secret in the book, nor does she make you wait till the end to find out why his world is so turned upside down. Ty is a great father and a hardworking man who tries his hardest to give his son everything he needs. He always put his son first. I loved that! As much as he liked Nadia he made it clear to her she was not his number one priority. Nadia was on the same level as Ty, so it worked out. At first, at least. 

The chemistry between the two was killing me. Nadia and Ty we just absolutely perfect for each other. There wasn’t a whole lot of back and forth, but there were times I wanted to scream. I was frustrated in every way while reading. I actually had to put the book down at one point because their chemistry was just so intense.

Oh, and prepare to blush from ear to ear. The book isn’t filled with sex scene after sex scene, but when Nadia and Ty finally do give into each other, um… bombs went off. I was as red as a lobster. I was so thankful I was actually reading before bed and everyone was already asleep. And I was giggling like a looney. It was pretty damn funny, actually. I crack myself up.

I can’t forget either how I kept singing “I WANT IT THAT WAY” by the Backstreet Boys. Which is also pretty darn funny because when you search the next two books in the series they are also named after Backstreet Boys songs – AS LONG AS YOU LOVE ME and THE SHAPE OF MY HEART. Go ahead… sing. You know you want to!

Anyway, I WANT IT THAT WAY is a must read! A definite Good Choice for Reading!

Review/ Giveaway: The Lost by Sarah Beth Durst

The Lost
By: Sarah Beth Durst
Expected publication:
May 27th 2014
by Harlequin MIRA

Amazon † B&N † Author Website

Brilliantly riveting. * Thought-provoking and stirring. **

Award-winning author Sarah Beth Durst has been praised for her captivating novels that merge the darkly imagined with very real themes of self-discovery and destiny. In The Lost, we'll discover just what it means to lose one's way.

It was only meant to be a brief detour. But then Lauren finds herself trapped in a town called Lost on the edge of a desert, filled with things abandoned, broken and thrown away. And when she tries to escape, impassible dust storms and something unexplainable lead her back to Lost again and again. The residents she meets there tell her she's going to have to figure out just what she's missing, and what she's running from, before she can leave. So now Lauren's on a new search for a purpose and a destiny. And maybe, just maybe, she'll be found.

Against the backdrop of this desolate and mystical town, Sarah Beth Durst writes an arresting, fantastical novel of one woman's impossible journey and her quest to find her fate.

I See London by Chanel Cleeton - Chapter Sneak Peek! {New Adult}

I SEE LONDON by Chanel Cleeton
February 3, 2014
Harlequin HQN (Digital First)
New Adult Contemporary Romance

Maggie Carpenter is ready for a change— and to leave her ordinary life in South Carolina behind. But when she accepts a scholarship to the International School in London, a university attended by the privileged offspring of diplomats and world leaders, Maggie might get more than she bargained for.

When Maggie meets Hugh, a twentysomething British guy, she finds herself living the life she always wanted. Suddenly she’s riding around the city in a Ferrari, wearing borrowed designer clothes and going to the hottest clubs. The only problem? Another guy, the one she can’t seem to keep her hands off of.

Half French, half Lebanese, and ridiculously wealthy, Samir Khouri has made it clear he doesn’t do relationships. He’s the opposite of everything Maggie thought she wanted…and he’s everything she can’t resist. Torn between her dream guy and the boy haunting her dreams, Maggie has to fight for her own happy ending. In a city like London, you never know where you stand, and everything can change in the blink of an eye.

This is a New Adult romance recommended for readers 17 and up.

Review: A Madaris Bride for Christmas by Brenda Jackson

Title: A Madaris Bride for Christmas
Author: Brenda Jackson
Series: Madaris Family & Friends #19
Publisher: Harlequin Kimani Arabesque
Published: October 29, 2013

Good Reads / Amazon / B&N

One by one, Madaris men have surrendered to the matchmaking schemes of Felicia Laverne Madaris, matriarch of the family. But Lee Madaris isn't letting anyone else control his destiny. He'll bring a bride of his own choosing to the family's holiday gathering—if his hotel's gorgeous new chef will agree to a marriage of convenience.
It's not just the chance to work at the Strip's hottest hotel that brought Carly Briggs to Vegas. Witnessing a crime in Miami may have made her a mob target. Though she's reluctant to complicate their working relationship, Lee's tempting offer is so hard to resist. And soon, desire is clouding their no-strings arrangement.The danger that made Carly flee Miami is about to land at their door. So Carly and Lee must decide who to trust, when to let go—and whether a love they never anticipated is strong enough to pass the ultimate test.

Normally, I'm a love it or hate it kinda girl. If you look at my reviews, I'm either a 5 star or a 1 star reviewer. But this book has me so torn. There are moments of it I absolutely adored, and moments that made me cringe. Let me tell you about both...

First off, Im disappointed in the title. I understand that the premise of the book is that Lee will have his bride before he goes home for Christmas. But at the same time, the novel gives you the impression that it's about Christmas. And that's what I was looking for -- the mistletoe, presents, lights, all that -- and I got none of that. So I was a little bummed.

On the other hand, the love story between Lee and Carly is really very sweet (and especially steamy at times!). The whole love at first sight aspect and the awakened passion they find for each other had me totally enraptured. You spend a good amount of time wanting them to finally admit that they love each other, and it is so satisfying when they do :)

But, on the other hand, their romance seemed a little too "wrapped up in a bow" at times. Which, after researching the author, I guess is just the way her novels go. But to me, it was all so....easy.  Carly just happened to get the job working at Lee's hotel. And he just happened to see her at the right moment. And it just happened to be her birthday. I mean, really? There had to be a better way of having them meet.

Overall, the storyline was okay. Again, a little too cheesy and unreal, but I thought it was well-written and descriptive enough to give me an idea of who these characters are. I think that there will be people who either really love this book or really hate it. For me...I'm stuck right in the middle.

P.S. -- Regardless of how I felt about the book -- a HUGE CONGRATS to Brenda Jackson for her 100th Novel! What a feat!!

Review: Candlelight Christmas by Susan Wiggs

Title: Candlelight Christmas
Author: Susan Wiggs
Published: October 29, 2013
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Hardcover: 336 pgs

Amazon / GoodReads / B&N

A single father who yearns to be a family man, Logan O'Donnell is determined to create the perfect Christmas for his son, Charlie. The entire O'Donnell clan arrives to spend the holidays in Avalon, a postcard-pretty town on the shores of Willow Lake, a place for the family to reconnect and rediscover the special gifts of the season.
One of the guests is a newcomer to Willow Lake— Darcy Fitzgerald. Sharp-witted, independent and intent on guarding her heart, she's the last person Logan can see himself falling for. And Darcy is convinced that a relationship is the last thing she needs this Christmas.Yet between the snowy silence of the winter woods, and toasty moments by a crackling fire, their two lonely hearts collide. The magic of the season brings them each a gift neither ever expected—a love to last a lifetime.

Ahhh...Christmas-time...one of my absolute favorite holidays of the year, and not just for the gifts! Christmas is all about love, family, cheer -- there's just something about it that makes you smile.

Candlelight Christmas will bring you all those light-hearted feelings and more. This is definitely one of those books you could easily turn into a Hallmark Channel film. It's full of Christmas cliches, a little bit of cheesiness, and a story of redemption that makes you feel like anything is possible on Christmas Eve.

Logan and Darcy are two new friends who have been burned by love. (Who hasn't been there, right?) And we all know how much it sucks to have to spend the holidays alone. Or as Darcy finds out -- it's even worse to have to spend it with your ex! Determined to avoid her ex-husband at all costs, Darcy spends the holidays with her friend -- Logan's sister -- and ends up spending most of it with Logan himself.  Their friendship soon blooms into something more, and despite everything that could possibly go wrong, they decide to take that leap of faith into a relationship. And that's what makes this novel truly special -- it's all about the risk. It's about putting yourself first at the time you need to be your happiest. I mean, think about it: what's the point of being with your family around Christmas if you're just going to be miserable? Go with your friends to Vegas instead! Or maybe a trip to some Caribbean island! It's all about doing what makes you happy no matter what anyone else thinks/says or accuses you of. And along the way, you never know what you'll find :)

Candlelight Christmas is a great romance story that will tug at your heart and bring out some of your faith. Faith that anything...or anyone...can happen to you around the holidays. And that when it does...or when they come...you're not afraid to leap.

4 1/2 out of 5 stars

Review: Three Little Words by Susan Mallery & Giveaway!

Three Little Words
by Susan Mallery
Mass Market Paperback, 332 pages
Published July 30th 2013 by Harlequin HQN

GoodReads † Amazon † BN

Can first love turn into the real deal in a sizzling new Fool's Gold story from New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery? Isabel Carlisle thinks she's cursed in the romance department. Her teenage crush, Ford Hendrix, ignored all her letters. Her husband left her for another...man. So Isabel has come home to dust off her passion for fashion and run the family bridal shop until her parents are ready to sell it. Then she'll pursue her real dreams. At least, that's the plan, until sexy, charming Ford returns and leaves her feeling fourteen all over again....

Seeing Isabel all grown up hits bodyguard trainer Ford like a sucker punch. Back when heartbreak made him join the military, her sweet letters kept him sane. Now he can't take his eyes-or his lips-off her. The man who gave up on love has a reason to stay in Fool's Gold forever-if three little words can convince Isabel to do the same....

Where have I been? I had no idea Susan Mallery's Fool's Gold series was up to book #12. I forgot how much I love Susan Mallery's writing, and the characters she creates. Also, a big bonus, I do not have to read the books in order for me to understand, or keep up with the Fool's Gold world and its characters. I jumped right into Three Little Words and did not feel lost or confused one bit.

Isabel and Ford have to be one of my favorite characters in a contemporary romance ever. The story kicks off with Isabel, a fourteen year old girl in love with her sister's ex-fiancé. Ford is off in the military and after having his heart broken by Isabel's older sister… he refuses to reply to any of Isabel's letters. Not caring one bit, she continues to write him throughout the years.

When Ford finally returns to Fool's Gold, it was almost as if him and Isabel known each other for a long time. Their first meeting was hilarious, and I loved how quickly they became friends and later on a couple. It was written perfectly and developed at a great pace. It was so much fun reading about these two and watching them fall in love. I haven't laughed this hard while reading a book in so long!

Isabel and Ford have one of those relationships where they are both straightforward with one another, and neither one was embarrassed to share what's on their mind. I almost didn't want them to become an official couple because I knew the book would be coming to an end soon. I couldn't get enough of the two.

There is also a subplot where a romance develops between Ford’s brother, Kent, and their friend Consuelo. Their story is interesting because Consuelo is a kick-butt character who isn't afraid to get down and dirty. She fights her own battles and seems like she is a very confident girl. But when it comes to men, she was completely clueless. She is gorgeous, but has no clue just how gorgeous.

Three Little Words has brought out the love I have for Susan Mallery’s books all over again. This book made me laugh and gave me butterflies. I blushed and craved more when the story was over. I have a lot of catching up to do with this series and cannot wait!

____________________________________________________________________

Keep up with the blog tour HERE.

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Read our Contest Rules HERE. 

The Susan Mallery Foolproof Bridal Kit includes:

• A wedding-themed bottle of OPI nail polish
• Not Your Mother’s® Rise & Shine™ Silky Smooth Shine Mist
• Manicure set (includes emery board, small and large nail clippers, tweezers, cuticle stick and nail polish remover pad)
• Heart-shaped compact mirror
• 12-piece E.L.F. eye shadow kit
• Travel makeup brush set
• Makeup remover wipes
• Lip gloss
• Travel sewing kit
• Kleenex®
• Secret® deodorant
• Razor and Gillette® Shave Gel
• Nivea Creme
• Wisps toothbrushes
• TRESemmé® hairspray

To enter to win this amazing prize pack, all you have to do is leave a comment below telling us what you love most about contemporary romance, and what makes it a 5 star in your eyes? 

Review: Three Sisters (Blackberry Island #2) by Susan Mallery

Three Sisters by Susan Mallery
Amazon † B&N † Author Site
Expected publication:
February 26th 2013
by Harlequin MIRA

After Andi Gordon is jilted at the altar, she makes the most impetuous decision of her life – buying one of the famed Three Sisters Queen Anne houses on Blackberry Island. Now the proud-ish owner of the ugly duckling of the trio, she plans to open her own pediatric office on the first floor, just as soon as her hunky contractor completes the work. Andi's new future may be coming together, but the truth is she's just as badly in need of a major renovation as her house.

When Deanna Phillips confronts her husband about a suspected affair, she opens up a Pandora's Box of unhappiness. And he claims that she is the problem. The terrible thing is, he's right. In her quest to be the perfect woman, she's lost herself, and she's in danger of losing her entire family if things don't change.

Next door, artist Boston King thought she and her college sweetheart would be married forever. Their passion for one other has always seemed indestructible. But after tragedy tears them apart, she's not so sure. Now it's time for them to move forward, with or without one another.

Thrown together by fate and geography, and bound by the strongest of friendships, these three women will discover what they're really made of: laughter, tears, love and all.

          My Review:

     Once again Susan Mallery delivers. Every time I picked up a book by Susan Mallery, I know I won't be disappointed. Three Sisters delivered. Three Sisters was an enjoyable read. What I loved most is that is a contemporary story but it main focus isn't all on romance. I really liked that. Sometimes some books over do the whole love thing and can be too mushy. But this book focuses on relationships and self help. The three ladies in this novel had a lot of personal issues they had to deal with and figure out throughout the book.

     Each character had so much going on, I felt bad for them. Except one, and that's Deanna. I didn't care for her much, but eventually she grew on me. The novel opens up with Andi, poor girl (not literally) moved to Blackberry Island to start her life fresh. Andi is a good person, she's a pediatrician and she loves kids. But she's scarred because her ex-fiance left her standing at the alter. What kind of person does that to the person they claim to love? So as you read the story, you see her struggles and fears. She's not a weak person which makes her more likable. I love her growth throughout the whole story. I was rooting for her to find that special love she deserves.

     Boston is of owners of the houses considered to be the "Three Sisters". Boston was a fun character. She's young but she has an even younger heart. Not caring about what anyone thinks and walking around with huge purple (I believe it's purple) strip of hair, she faces the world in pain. I think her pain is the worst one of them. My heart cried for her. The pain she deals with in this book, is a pain no woman should go through. Seeing her grow and find a way to cope with her loss was sweet. She was my favorite character. I really enjoyed her page time.

     Oh Deanna, how you rubbed me the wrong way. During the first half of the book, I did not like her one bit. She's one of those people that dresses so crisp and judges people. But behind that b*tchy persona is someone whose negative childhood has made her who she is today. She's dealing with her own insecurities and her own demons. And not knowing the proper way to deal with her past has affected her family life. No one should have to endure a horrible childhood. Though she wasn't my favorite characters, I was glad to see her change her life around.

     All three ladies brought their own character and personality which made this book very enjoyable. I loved the scenes between all the ladies and the men in their lives. All three men were sexy and I really liked how much they cared for their ladies and never really gave up on them. Three Sisters is another win for Susan Mallery. I can't wait to read the next installment of the Blackberry Island series. Three Sisters is a 5 stars read, must buy and a definite Good Choice for Reading.