'TBR' Tuesday: Tainted Bodies (The Photographer #1) by Sarah Robinson

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Kate Jackson is listlessly floating through her life having no idea what or who she wants to be and burdened by the pains of her past. That is until she meets Derrick Kane. 

A whirlwind romance leads Kate to believe that Derrick is the answer to all her questions and the patch to heal all her wounds.

Derrick and Kate’s love is quickly tested as a shocking crime forces Kate to have to figure out how to take care of herself and leads her into a mystery that only Kate has the key to solve.

Can she catch an extremely dangerous criminal and keep the love between Derrick and her alive? Find out the conclusion of this thrilling crime drama and contemporary romance in the following books of The Photographer Trilogy.

Sarah Robinson is a native of the Washington, DC area and has both her Bachelors and Masters Degree in psychology while working as a mental health therapist with poor and homeless populations with severe mental illnesses as well as an advocate for a national cancer research foundation. 

Writing has been her hobby since high school and she has been published several times from poetry to short stories. Her latest information and publications can be found on her website athttp://www.smallvoiceslargehearts.com/. 

Sand & Clay was her first full length novel and will have a sequel coming out in late 2014 or early 2015. 

Her second book is called Tainted Bodies and is the first part of The Photographer Trilogy. The remaining books of The Photographer Trilogy are set to follow in 2014. Basically if you like the television show Law & Order: SVU, then you will love this series!

Her writing often concentrates on the complexity of love and emotions and the struggles of finding your destined path through life as well as overcoming life's tragedies and misfortunes. She combines psychological complexities and human emotions to create very real characters experiencing life in a very real way.

Much of her inspirations come from the amazing love she shares with her new husband, Justin, and the emotions around falling head over heels in love with your soulmate. She and her new husband are also big animal rescue enthusiasts and have 14 pets as well as volunteering with multiple animal shelters and rescues. Her celebrity idol is Ellen Degeneres, she even named one of her dogs after her (Elly)!

You can find more information on her Facebook fan site!

Websites:
www.smallvoiceslargehearts.com 
www.facebook.com/BooksbySarahRobinson
www.twitter.com/Booksby_Sarah

'TBR' Tuesday: The Replacements by Rachael Wade

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*Contains sexually explicit content and mature subject matter, including language and elements of abuse.*

A gritty New Adult drama about a young woman’s self-destructive quest to find purpose, self-worth, and love in a broken world.

My name is Elise Duchamp. I’m twenty-three years old and I’m known as the town whore.

No, not the kind who exchanges sexual favors for money. The other kind. The kind who gives it all away for free, whenever and however she likes. I am that girl. The one everyone whispers about and the one none of the girls seem to like, because all of their boyfriends either want to sleep with me or already have. Promiscuity is my thing—the kind that slowly, violently turns my insides black, but gives me something I need.

All things considered, I’m not completely reckless. I’m safe, and contrary to popular opinion, I do have a heart. I live in a world of careless choices, and with those choices come careless people. I cannot judge them, because I am one of them. I too bow down to the altar of the self-serving. I am not a good friend. I am not and never could be anyone’s girlfriend. I’m convinced any goodness in me shriveled up and died long ago.

But I am a replacement. That is something I know how to be, and this is a story of the lengths I’d go to in order to keep it that way.

Rachael Wade is the Amazon bestselling author of THE PRESERVATION SERIES, LOVE AND RELATIVITY, and the upcoming New Adult sci-fi series, THE KEEPERS TRILOGY. When she's not writing, she's busy going to concerts, watching too many movies, and learning how to protect animals and the environment. She's an avid Brandi Carlile fan and loves all things Tim Burton. Visit her atwww.RachaelWade.com and www.LightsOnLove.com, and come chat with her on Twitter @RachaelWade.

'TBR' Tuesday: What the Heart Wants (Soulmate Series: Book One) by Kelli McCracken

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Do dreams foretell the future? Are there soul connections that go deeper than love?

He can sense her emotions at any place and time. Their bond is powerful but a mystery. One thing he does know: She's plagued his dreams for months. Maybe even longer.

Being involved with a celebrity is the last things she imagined...or wanted. Can she forget the pain from the past? Can he let go of his fears?

Before she could read, Kelli McCracken used her imagination to make up her own stories to match the illustrations in her books. Her love for reading and writing has carried over to adulthood.

When she's not writing or looking for duct tape for her inner critic's mouth, you can usually find her hanging out on Twitter: @Kelli_McCracken

"It seems like all I ever do it write...and listen to Layne. He's always whispering something naughty in my ear, like being dipped in chocolate. Now I'm craving a Kit-Kat. Welcome to my zany life, where #SanityIsOptional, romance is required, and liquor is most definitely quicker."

PSA from Jenn at Swooning Over Books

All too often I hear of authors being harassed and bullied by individuals who find their strength from hiding behind a screen name.  It is disgraceful and cowardly.  As a blogger, reviewer and avid reader, of course, I have come across stories I didn't like.  Some have failed to meet my expectations.  Others lacked a certain "something".  In each instance, there is always something good within the pages if you look for it.  Regardless, while it is my job to provide an honest review, it is not my place to belittle the author or ferociously rip their hard work to shreds.

Jess and I try to present our opinions openly, honestly, but with with grace.  We strongly believe that just because a book wasn't for us doesn't mean there isn't someone out there that will fall in love with it.  Everything in this world is subjective to your views and circumstance.  No two people will ever look at something the same way.  

To those individuals who insist on degrading those who had the courage to share their story, if you think you can do better let's see it.  Your quick to judge others than let's see how you will react to being on the other side.  If not, than kindly sit down and hush.

To every author out there who has been brave enough to share their story with the world this song is for you.

Book Blitz: Forgiven by Rebecca Brooke

Title: Forgiven (Forgiven #1)

Series: Forgiven

Author: Rebecca Brooke

Released: August 10th 2013

~Synopsis~

What happens when one moment changes the course of your entire life? Do you sit back and accept it, or fight to live the life you choose? Caleb Jacobs has a past that has haunted him for two years. Knowing he can never forgive himself for the events that led to his departure, Caleb chooses to live a quiet life—concentrating on school, sports, and shots. But when he is paired with Angie for a history project he realizes that no matter how much you try to hide from your past, one way or another it will find you. Angelina Powers knows what she wants from life. Growing up with only an alcoholic father for company, Angie learned early on in life that you can only count on yourself. But that doesn’t stop her wishing for her white knight. She’s confident, happy and focused…until she meets Caleb. So how will she feel when her potential white knight turns out to be more of a black shadow?

~Review~

(I received this book as an ARC for an honest review)

Forgiven is story about two broken souls coming together. Not without heartbreak and struggles first, of course. Rebecca Brooke did a great job portraying the pain in each character.

Angie never didn’t have a great childhood. Her mother left her and her father when she was little, her father took to drinking and verbally abusing Angie. Keeping her private life hidden she sets off to college where she meets her best friend, Emily.

Caleb was living the dream, high school football player, scholarships to all ivy league colleges, love of his life in his arms, things couldn’t be better. Until, a horrific accident changes everything.

When Angie and Caleb are paired together in class, Caleb instantly pushes her away. Doing everything possible to not allow her into his life. However, Angie can’t afford to fail this class and pushing Caleb right back into helping her.

As the story progresses, so does their relationship. Neither wanting to share their past,  both keeping each other at arm’s length. While it took me a little while to get into the story, there are quite a few twists in the plot and Rebecca Brooke had me hooked after about ½ way through!

Forgiven has the perfect ending for Angie and Caleb’s story! Getting past the pain, sharing their stories, and believing that they can truly forgiven themselves and others who have hurt them, they are able to happily move on with their lives.

 

~Excerpt~

I saw the uncomfortable look on his face—at least he had the decency to feel embarrassed about his behavior. He leaned forward on his elbows, resting his chin in his palms. “Look.” His loud exhale made it seem like he was about to impart something profound, but something that he really didn’t want to share. “I don’t mean to be an ass. There are just things about me people don’t know.” He closed his eyes and I could see his breath become shallow as his chest moved up and down rapidly. “There are…things. Things that have happened. You remind me of someone, and it took me by surprise.” His eyes raised to meet mine. “I am sorry though. You didn’t deserve that,” he said sadly.

~Buy Links~

Amazon US * Amazon UK * B&N * Kobo * Sony * Smashwords

~Meet the Author~

Rebecca Brooke grew up in the shore towns of South Jersey. She loves to hit the beach, but always with her kindle on hand. She is married to the most wonderful man, who puts up with all of her craziness. Together they have two beautiful children who keep her on her toes. When she isn’t writing or reading (which is very rarely) she loves to bake and watch episodes of Shameless and True Blood.

Facebook * Twitter * Website * Goodreads

~Giveaway~

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Blog Tour Review: Goodbye Caution by Jacquelyn Ayres

Goodbye Caution

by Jacquelyn Ayres

Hosted by: Bare Naked Words

Goodreads Book Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18687131-goodbye-caution?from_search=true

Becca Campbell is a mother, friend, and widow to a war hero (may he rot in hell). She just wants to raise her daughter right and keep her bed-and-breakfast afloat in this economy. Her traumatic past leaves her with no desire for a relationship—until Grayson James walks through her door. He’s not the type of man you can easily say “no” to. Becca can’t quite understand the pull she feels toward him. But then his controlling nature starts to push her away—and into Ray McNeil’s comforting arms. Which is right where Ray has always wanted her. Who will Becca choose? Will she finally give in to her feelings for Ray, or continue the tumultuous relationship with Grayson? Only one thing is certain—either choice will mean saying goodbye to caution.  Warning: This book contains some disturbing situations, dubious consent, strong language and violence. 10% of the proceeds from this book will be donated to YWCAUSA.org to help abused women and children

Let's start with the story summary, then I will tell you my thoughts.  Becca is a single mom running a B&B/Scrapping Store/Stable in New Hampshire.  Though she has been alone since the death of her husband she as accepted that she may never be with someone again and is trying to make the best life possible for her daughter Morgan.  The safe life she has created for her family all changes the day Grayson comes to visit his Aunt at the B&B.  

Becca and Grayson's attraction is instant and their connection is intense.  Quickly Becca's life is moving at a dizzying pace.  Quiet and safe are replaced with chaos and danger.  Can Becca and Grayson learn to trust one another?  Will Grayson learn to trust one another?  Will Grayson's efforts to keep Becca safe be enough?

Ok, now on to my thoughts.  When I read the prologue, Becca's warning regarding the pace of the book, I didn't know what to expect.  As I began to read the story it became apparent the sentiment was not an understatement.  Becca and Grayson's relationship develops almost instantaneously.  It made my head spin.  I am all for love at first sight, but damn, calm your damn hormones.  Also, I struggled a little with the progression of the plot.  I felt like it was all too much for one book.  I believe some elements could have been expanded on and this almost turned into two novels.  Finally, I truly wanted to strangle Grayson at times.  Don't get me wrong I would gladly pray for him any day of the week, but he was infuriating at times.

While moments in Becca and Grayson's relationship did give me motion sickness at times, I am really looking forward to what happens in the sequel.  Check out Goodbye Caution today!

Happy Reading!!

I am a Domestic Engineer (born and raised in NJ) whose sole responsibility is to guide three young impressionable kids into becoming phenomenal adults. This challenging, yet rewarding work requires a lot of love (coffee), patience (wine) and determination (periodic exorcisms). I work all of this magic in the beautiful state of New Hampshire. Before becoming a Domestic Goddess (not really), I spent over a decade working in the medical field where I wore more hats than the Queen. I have had a love for the written word and the great escape it provides since I was a little girl. When I wasn't reading about people and the places they lived, I was creating my own characters and adventures. Finally, I have been putting a pen to paper allowing my characters to come to life. When I don't have a pen and paper in hand, you can often find me laughing at the conversations my characters are having in my head.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JacquelynAyresAuthor?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JacquelynAyres

Goodreads Author: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7351160.Jacquelyn_Ayres

Amazon US---> http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GWVSZ2G/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=211189&creative=373489&creativeASIN=B00GWVSZ2G&link_code=as3&tag=barnakwor-20

Amazon UK---> http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B00GWVSZ2G/ref=as_li_qf_sp_asin_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=2506&creative=9298&creativeASIN=B00GWVSZ2G&link_code=as3&tag=barnakwor-21

B&N---> http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/goodbye-caution-jacquelyn-ayres/1117558132?ean=2940045456913&itm=1&usri=goodbye+caution

“I have the means to be anywhere I want, when I want to be there. I’ll have to leave to handle certain business obligations, but I can tell you right now—I’m not going anywhere. Not here,” I touch my temple. “Or here,” I put my hand over my heart. “I’m completely smitten with you. It’s insane, I know. This is not a reaction I am familiar with. I’m in uncharted waters here, Becca. But I want to explore them with you.”

Meet Becca, Grayson, Ray & Hazel

Grayson

1.  When you contrived with Ray to share Becca, did you not consider, knowing your nature, that it might be problem?

           

I don’t know what the bloody hell I was thinking besides the fact that I couldn’t lose her! I mean, I was completely snookered. Everything sounds brilliant when your rat arsed! I just . . .  I really screwed up and I knew I had to do something drastic to attempt to win her back. In all honesty, I didn’t completely factor in the consequences of sharing her with Ray because I didn’t think the arsehole really stood a chance!

2.  You seem to fall for Morgan almost as hard as you fall for Becca, is the 'ready made family' part of the attraction?

            I was looking for a nice, long overdue, visit with my aunt and a great weekend skiing with my mates. I was not looking to fall in love and I most certainly was not looking to become a father. I never even considered having children—ever. But, my God, you’ve all met Morgan—how could anyone not fall in love with that girl? She’s a clever, funny little thing and I absolutely adore her! So, no, a ‘ready-made family’ was not part of the attraction but the love I feel for them made me ready for a family!

Becca

1.  Obviously you had reservations about Gray and Ray's plan to share your time, but all that aside, you had permission to enjoy two men! How much fun was that??

            Can they hear me?

            No. They are in the other room.

            Security hasn’t been in here?

            No. Why do you ask?

            Umm . . . you have met Grayson, right?

            Oh. Quite right. No. No one’s been in here but us.

            Ok. Let’s just say my Slip n’ Slide never saw a dry moment and thoroughly enjoyed the extensive playtime!

2.  How do you cope with the restrictions 24 hour protection must impose?

            Well, it definitely hasn’t been easy—that’s for sure! I’ve had to let go—a lot! I’m very impatient. When I need to do something, I need to do it now! Waiting for my detail sucks sometimes. I’m blessed to have Melissa though! She makes it a bit more normal for me. With the exception of the handful I’ve gotten close to, well, it’s just—awkward! I mean how would you feel if there were people outside of your bedroom door every minute—hearing everything? I couldn’t be quiet with Grayson if I tried! So I had to ‘let go’. Now I just think of it like this, ‘Well, at least I’m keeping them all closer to God!’

3.  Do you feel any guilt that you and Ray could have probably stayed friends if not for the arrangement?

            That’s the worst part of this. I was bound to lose one of them. Ray has been my best friend for about five years now. We’ve done everything together. I have to believe in my heart of hearts that eventually, things will mend between us. We love each other very much and on such a different level. I can’t see how anything can wipe that all away. But to answer your question—yes, the guilt is unbearable. I’ve handled this whole situation very poorly.

Ray

1.  Why did you wait until Becca was happy with another man before deciding to declare your feelings?

   

         Oh, let me guess who you got that information from! That prick is unbelievable!

            

Well, we’re only going by what we’ve been told in general. There’s not much evidence to tell us anything different.

           

There are two sides to every story.

            

Tell us yours then.

            

Soon.

            

Why so secretive?

            

We’ve all got our secrets, lady.

           

(Ladies, I believe Ray just dished out one of his wink/air kiss combinations at me. I may need to change my knickers!)

To answer your question though, I didn’t wait for another man to show up. I’ve always told Becca how I feel . . . in my own way. I love Becca with all my heart but she is one oblivious woman!

2.  How do you manage the fact that you actually like Grayson, even though you hate him for having Becca?

            I did like him when I first met him. I tolerate him now—barely. I’ll tell you why I do tolerate him, though. That dude is a loose cannon! When Becca has finally had enough of his bullshit and realizes he’s not the man for her, I’ll be waiting—with open arms. Just you wait and see!

             People might say the same thing about you, Ray. Call you a loose cannon.

(Ray has just given me, what I believe Becca calls, his ‘sit n’ spin’ face and is now leaving. I have to admit—his arse does do wonders for those jeans. I may or may not have just fallen out of my chair from leaning to keep a good watch on that arse!)

Hazel

1.  Did you have hopes from the beginning that Becca and Grayson would fall in love?

             Well, I had hopes that they would like each other and maybe want to date. But I was not expecting all of this. Honestly, I think it’s been all too much for Becca—given her history.

2.  When Becca and Grayson argued who did you deep down feel most protective of?

             Such a simple question, dear, and yet so complicated. You know I raised Gracie from the time he was fifteen so he’s like the son I never had. Becca, though I’ve only known her for the past several years, is like the daughter I never had. It really depended on the argument. Becca, though she is so strong, is still quite fragile from her past. You know, she didn’t walk away from George on her own accord—he was killed—well, so she thought. So I feel very protective of her when I see Grayson behave so aggressively. My Gracie has never acted that way before. I’ve also never seen him so torn up and broken down by a woman.  To see what she has done to him—my heart leans in his direction. Now that I’m with Charlie, I just try to spend as much time with him and let those two kids try to figure things out for themselves.

3.  Errrrrrr – speaking of Charlie, Hazel—have you found Jesus yet, and if so, how was it? ;-)

            Oh, you are just as bad as Becca is, you naughty girl! Can’t you girls think about anything besides sex? (You should know that she is giggling and blushing at the moment)

             No. It’s no secret that women are worse than men! Come out with it then! Is Charlie taking you to church, Hazel?

             We may have said Hallelujah a few times. (giggling) Oh no! Don’t put that in there! Oh dear, that’s not going to be seen in a national newspaper, is it?

             No. No, of course not! (Internationally on the internet but we won’t tell her that!)

             Oh good! (sigh of relief) Well, it was so nice to talk to you, dear! Make sure to come and stay  with us at The Morgan Inn—we’d love to have you!

             Thank you, Hazel! (I want to steal

Fire Questions—One Worded Answers

1.  What is your favourite colour?

Becca: Red

Grayson: Blue

Ray: Green

Hazel: Pink

2.  Describe Becca.

Becca: Me! (I shoot her a look) oh…um. Shut-up! Who are you talking to? Cautionary Sybecca—her ticker board said DUMBASS. She’s such a bitch! We’ll just move on to the next . . .

Grayson: Awesome (chuckles)

Ray: Mine

Hazel: Tri-fecta

3. Ambition

Becca: Vineyard Really? Wine. Right.

Grayson: Protect

Ray: Reclaim

Hazel: Travel

4. Favourite TV show

Becca: Criminal Minds

Grayson: Elementary

Ray: ESPN Isn’t that a sports network? Yeah? Um . . . alright then.

Hazel: Weeds What? She’s clever—I admire her. She’s also sex crazed. Must be an epidemic with you young girls! (I’m stealing her!)

5. Describe Grayson

Becca: Everything. Can I just mention that, I’ll be your Everything by Tommy Page, is now playing. I don’t hear it. Good. That would be a little creepy if you were in my head!

Grayson: Mr. Right!

Ray: Asshole

Hazel: Brilliant

6. Favourite Sex Position

Becca: on top

Grayson: Any position I can pin her down good while I’m taking her. (Bloody hell, there goes another pair of knickers!)

Ray: Becca No. I said favourite position. If I’m inside of Becca, it’s my favorite. It doesn’t matter how I’m in there. (Feck it! I’m going to go commando and flood the fecking place out!)

Hazel: On a plate? WHAT? I like my snacks on a plate, dear. I said SEX! Christ, Wendy, I’m not deaf! Clearly. What is your favourite sex position? Behind closed doors, you nosy, naughty girl! (I may join Becca on the vineyard!)

7. What did you want to be when you grew up?

Becca: A Singer.

Grayson: Football player for Manchester United

Ray: Baseball player

Hazel: A Dancer

8. Describe Ray

Becca: All-American

Grayson: A thorn

Ray: Determined

Hazel: Handy

9. Who would you die for?

Becca: Morgan

Grayson: Becca and Morgan

Ray: Annie & Becca

Hazel: Charlie

https://play.spotify.com/user/jewely77/playlist/42PUzzM1ShufzdPsnbxiGh

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Blog Tour: Shelter You by Alice Montalvo-Tribue

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She's mine. 

That was the first thought that came to my mind when I held my baby in my arms at seventeen. I didn't care that my parents had already promised to give her to a wealthy family. That they were forcing me to give her away. 

She was mine. 

I ran away from that hospital, from that family, from the only life I knew. I planned to start over with what little money I had, determined to make something of myself despite the odds. 

Then Logan Tate came along. 

Gorgeous and controlling, he claimed he was trying to help me, and he didn't care that I was just another teenage pregnancy story. 

But I don’t trust him. I don't trust anyone. And if Logan knew the real secrets and lies I was keeping inside, he wouldn't dare try to shelter me.

I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is my first Alice Montalvo-Tribue novel and I believe she has gained a new fan! Shelter you is not for one for the faint hearted. This was an incredible story. 

Mia, a 17 year old girl came from a very wealthy family. Only as most of the stories we read, her parents were more concerned in social status, than what makes a true family. Pregnant and scared she turns to her parents for help. Only their solution was to force her to put the child up for adoption. 

          With the help of a hospital nurse, Mia makes the decision that she cannot give her daughter up, she runs! Under age with a newborn in tow, Mia travels as far away as possible, settling in a small town where she hopes she can make a life for her and her daughter. 

          When Logan walks into her life she is petrified of him. Not trusting anyone to not tip off her parents of her whereabouts, she lies. Only, how long can she really keep it secret?  Logan immediately feels that he needs to help, taking her in, finding her a job, the all american knight in shining armor. But, can he break down her walls?

          I feel in love with these characters! Learning the horrific past that Mia has faced, learning who the father of her baby is, and what he did to her.  Seeing how quickly Logan attaches himself to her daughter... Swoon! I can easily rate this one 5 stars!! This is a MUST READ!

Alice Montalvo-Tribue lives with her husband and daughter in New Jersey. She has a bachelors degree in communications and is currently working on her masters degree. She spends most of her free time reading, writing, and when the weather permits lounging out on a beach.