#BookReview The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay by Kelly Harms

The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay
by Kelly Harms

Genre: Adult, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Romance, Women's Fiction
Publication:  August 9th, 2016 by Thomas Dunne Book
Format: ebooks
Source: Author, Publisher, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

A young painter, Lily has reached a crossroads in her life. Her career hasn't taken off, her best friend may no longer be the trusted friend she thought, her boyfriend is a disappointment, and now she can't keep up with the rising cost of living in the city. With no one to turn to, Lily is forced to move from her beloved apartment, but while packing she comes across a piece of mail that had slipped to the back of her junk drawer: a letter detailing further action needed to finalize the annulment of a quickie Vegas wedding. Ten years ago!

Lily decides it's time to turn over a new leaf and the first item on her list of things to fix is getting the annulment... but you can't just send a reply ten years later, "Hey by the way we are still married." This is something that must be addressed in person. Lily takes to the road to track down her husband - the charming, fun, and sexy man she connected with all those years ago - Ben Hutchinson.

Ben Hutchinson left a wealthy dot-com lifestyle behind to return home to his family and the small town he loves, Minnow Bay. He's been living off the grid and the last thing he expects is a wife he didn't know he had to show up on his doorstep.

By chance, Lily arrives at the magical Minnow Bay Inn, and there she will discover not just a place to lay her head, but new friends, a thriving art community, and maybe even the love of her life.

Lily's life isn't going as well as she wants. Her love life and her career as a painter are going nowhere. Now, Lily is forced to move out from her apartment. While packing to leave, she discovers a mail that reminds her to finalize the annulment of her Vegas wedding ten years ago.

The Matchmakers of Minnow Bay is a fun, light romance read. It isn't hard to get into the book. The author has a really nice writing style that I like and the characters are loveable. Lily is an air head, but it was fun to see how she is going to survive her new life. She went to Minnow Bay looking for her husband and expects him to be the charming, fun man she knew years ago, except that, he changed. A lot. I love the interaction between Lily and Ben right from the beginning. They are great together despite their misunderstanding and all that. The supporting characters in the book, Colleen and Jenny especially are making the story livelier. I absolutely enjoy the setup! If you're looking for a light, fun book, this is the book for you.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy by Laura Barnard

Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy
by Laura Barnard

Genre: Romance, Chick Lit, Drama, Contemporary, Women Fiction
Publication: March 2016
Format: ebooks
Source: Author
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

What is it about turning thirty that sends rational women into a tailspin?

Suddenly going from having all the time in the world, to cringing at the ticking of her biological clock, Poppy is drowning under the strain of trying to get pregnant.

With a dad in the throes of a mid-life crisis, a crazy mother-in-law and time racing towards Lilly's wedding, will she be able to cope with it all...and give Ryan the baby they so desperately want?

Finally able to inherit her dad's porn money, Jazz can't wait to be rich! She can buy a house in Chelsea, go out partying with her old mates and start living how she deserves.

But with Ollie, Jemima and Meryl each clawing at their own little piece of her happiness, will she have to leave behind those closest to her in exchange for it?

The real question is, can Poppy and Jazz rescue their own lives before everything gets ruined, or will their own stubbornness destroy the lives they've created.

I haven't read the other books in the series, so, I'm probably not quite familiar with the characters. But I guess, Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy can also be read as a stand alone.

The book is mostly about two girls, Poppy, who is trying to get pregnant, and Jazz, who turns after she inherits her dad's money. I'm mostly intrigued to know what was going to happen with Poppy as she and her husband try to get pregnant. I think it is a very interesting issue. I know a lot of people who are having the same dilemma as Poppy. I think a lot could probably relate to Poppy. The frustration to watch everyone around her gets pregnant, but not her. And then, there's Jazz. She's a really good friend who tries to be the best to people around her. Although I'm a bit concerns with how she spends her money.

This book is pretty funny. Poppy will definitely make you laugh with her clumsiness. She always finds herself in hysterical, but hilarious moments. But the laugh-out-loud moments somehow turns dull after too many coincidences at the hospital. 

Overall, Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy is definitely an enjoyable read. The author had a pleasant writing style, which I enjoyed. I thought I would probably like this book better if I get to know the characters from the first book first. But because I read this as a standalone, my only wish is that the story would focus more on Poppy trying to get pregnant. 

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Love, Reality Style by Judith Natelli McLaughlin

Love, Reality Style
by Judith Natelli McLaughlin

Genre: Romance, Chick Lit, Drama, Contemporary, Women Fiction
Publication: 7th 2016 by Blue Moon Publishers
Format: ebooks
Source: Netgalley, Author, Publisher
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

When cake-loving third-grade teacher Mary Grace Falcone receives a proposition of marriage from her germ-phobic boyfriend Ralph Ichy, her comfortable life is thrown into a tailspin. Should she marry Ralph? The man dubbed "the CEO of Antiseptic Hands"? Reluctantly, and despite the differing opinions of her best friends Jayde and Annie, Mary Grace accepts. Her decision gets her meddling mother off her back, but also lands her on a reality wedding show where handsome host, Nick Charmin, unexpectedly falls for her.

Will Mary Grace choose hot Nick or faithful Ralph? Is the decision really hers to make? And, is a slice of cake actually the answer to all of life's problems?

I'm such a sucker for books with a food theme. When I heard that the main character, Mary Grace love cake, I know that I need to read this book.

I love the idea of the book, with Mary Grace's hesitation to accept her germ-phobic boyfriend, Ralph Ichy, proposal. I’m sure that many could relate to Mary Grace’s situation. She just wasn’t sure if Ralph was the right man for her. And then, there was her meddlesome friends and mom.

I have to say that I wasn’t a big fan of Mary Grace. Especially after she accepted Ralph’s proposal and met Nick Charmin, the handsome TV host of the wedding show she joined. I thought that Mary Grace’s and Nick’s attraction towards each other came a bit forced and sudden. There are times when I thought that Mary Grace didn’t deserve Ralph. He’s a nice guy, despite being a germ-phobic. He lived with his mother, but only because he loved her, and she was in a situation.

The supporting characters made the book much interesting. Mary Grace’s friends, Jayde, and Annie were two interesting characters. I love how they both have different personalities and advice to Mary Grace. But Mary Grace’s mom definitely irritated me with her attitude to her daughter. 

Love, Reality Style is a quick romance read. The book was written in several point-of-views, but, mainly focusing on Mary Grace’s. I wish that the author concentrates on Mary Grace’s alone. I didn’t like how I get to see a glimpse of Jayde and Annie’s life, but, I didn’t get to learn what happen to the rest of their stories.

I received a copy of this book from the Netgalley & Blue Moon Publishers in exchange for my review.

#BookReview Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery by Jenny Colgan

Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery
(Little Beach Street Bakery #2)
by Jenny Colgan

Genre: Chick Lit, Romance, Women's Fiction
Publication: March 22nd, 2016
Format: ebooks
Source: Author, Publisher
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Summer has arrived in the Cornish town of Mount Polbearne and Polly Waterford couldn't be happier. Because Polly is in love: she's in love with the beautiful seaside town she calls home, she's in love with running the bakery on Beach Street, and she's in love with her boyfriend, Huckle.

And yet there's something unsettling about the gentle summer breeze that's floating through town. Selina, recently widowed, hopes that moving to Mount Polbearne will ease her grief, but Polly has a secret that could destroy her friend's fragile recovery. Responsibilities that Huckle thought he'd left behind are back and Polly finds it hard to cope with his increasingly long periods of absence.

Polly sifts flour, kneads dough and bakes bread, but nothing can calm the storm she knows is coming: is Polly about to lose everything she loves?

I always wanted to read Jenny Colgan's books. The cover looks lovely and the title sounds delicious. I'm just happy that I finally read this book. Jenny Colgan's writing is easy to get into. Summer in Little Beach Street Bakery is the second book from Little Beach Street Bakery series. I haven't read the first book yet, but this book can be read as a standalone.

Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery centers around Polly's life on Mount Polbearne. Polly is a baker. She's happy with her boyfriend, Huckle and her bird, Neil. Then, Selina, recently widowed, move to Mount Polbearne. Suddenly, everything is about to change for Polly.

I didn't expect that I would enjoy this book so much. The beginning was a bit slow for me. But once I keep going, I was hooked. The story showed how Polly deal with the changes around her—with her friends, bakery, and romance life. I love reading about how Polly bakes bread. Jenny Colgan had a wonderful way of describing each baked goods. I could almost imagine the smell of bread and yeast. It was interesting to know how Polly lives in a lighthouse. And I had the pleasure to get to know the people from Mount Polbearne. Summer at Little Beach Street Bakery is a great, light, chick lit read featuring two of my favorite things—beach and bakery. There were just enough amount of romance, friendship, drama and humor.

I received a copy of the book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

#BookReview Marry Your Billionaire by C.J. Anaya

Marry Your Billionaire
by C.J. Anaya

Genre: Chick Lit, Contemporary, Romance, Women's Fiction
Publication: March 7th, 2016 by C.J. Anaya Publishing LLC
Format: ARC, 411 pages
Source: eBooks for Review
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

Six years ago, Midge Knightly walked away from her trust fund, her Hollywood producer father, and the expectation that she would join the family business. Avoiding handsome playboys with hidden agendas was just an added bonus. Now one semester shy of graduation, she is shocked to discover her scholarship has lost its funding.

Her estranged father is having problems of his own. A contestant on his latest reality TV series has cancelled two months before shooting.

His solution?

Midge gets her trust fund back if she stands in as a potential marriage candidate for the dating series Marry Your Billionaire. Twenty women competing for one arrogant guy. Not Midge's cup of tea. Agreeing to this proposition sucks her back into the world she happily broke ties from, but no trust fund equals no college degree.

Brody Prescott, CEO and owner of an online dating company, has recently been pegged as a heartless playboy-among other things-by a disgruntled female after a disappointing date.

His solution?

Become the first bachelor on Marry Your Billionaire and hope that one of the contestants holds some potential. So what is he supposed to do when the woman who intrigues him the most wants to be eliminated?

Marry Your Billionaire is a fun, romantic romp set against the backdrop of reality TV. Throw on your PJ's, grab some chocolate and popcorn, and settle in for an entertaining love story.

I've read a few stories with the reality show, The Bachelor, story-line as the setting, but I'm still not tired of the setting yet. Of course, I do have a certain expectation on this book for the plot and settings. And I'm glad that Marry Your Billionaire by C.J. Anaya didn't disappoint me.

What I really love about Marry Your Billionaire by C.J. Anaya is the characters. I like Midge right from the start. She's courageous, independent, smart, and can be a bit stubborn at times. And Brody. He may sound like an arrogant jerk at first, but he can be very loving. I love how he pursue Midge and he won't stop even with Midge's tricks to get herself eliminated. The other characters made the book more fun and interesting. I especially love Midge's father and Lisa, her friend/housemate. I kinda wish that there were a lot more moments with Lisa in the book.

I enjoyed the author's writing style. It was easy to get into the book. I like the pacing. And the setting with the reality show was great. I was hoping to see more scenes of the characters and the other contestant as well, A bit more catfight between the characters, maybe? I absolutely love the chemistry between Midge and Brody. They're cute together. I enjoyed their cat and mouse game. Their scenes can be breathtakingly romantic and humorous at times.

If you're looking for a light, humorous read with a happy ending, C.J. Anaya's Marry Your Billionaire is perfect for you. I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to read more work from the author.

I received a copy of this book from the author/ebooks for review in exchange for my review.

#ReleaseBlitz : Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy by Laura Barnard + #Interview + #Giveaway

Release Blitz

Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy 

Release date: 23rd March 

Hosted by Two Ordinary Girls and their Books 

Porn Money and Wannabe Mummy

by Laura Barnard

Genre: Women's Fiction, Chick Lit

Publication: March 23rd, 2016

Buy: Amazon UK | Amazon US

What is it about turning thirty that sends rational women into a tailspin?

Suddenly going from having all the time in the world, to cringing at the ticking of her biological clock, Poppy is drowning under the strain of trying to get pregnant.

With a dad in the throes of a mid-life crisis, a crazy mother-in-law and time racing towards Lilly's wedding, will she be able to cope with it all...and give Ryan the baby they so desperately want?

Finally able to inherit her dad's porn money, Jazz can't wait to be rich! She can buy a house in Chelsea, go out partying with her old mates and start living how she deserves.

But with Ollie, Jemima and Meryl each clawing at their own little piece of her happiness, will she have to leave behind those closest to her in exchange for it?

The real question is, can Poppy and Jazz rescue their own lives before everything gets ruined, or will their own stubbornness destroy the lives they've created

Interview with Laura Bernard

1. Please introduce yourself and your book.

I'm Laura Barnard from Hertfordshire in the UK. Porn Money & Wannabe Mummy is the third instalment in the Debt & the Doormat series, although it can be read as a complete stand alone. It follows best friends Jazz and Poppy as they turn 30. Jazz inherits her fathers fortune which he acquired from his porn empire in the eighties and Poppy is desperately trying to fall pregnant with her husband Ryan. Things are never straight forward with these two so prepare to laugh as you follow them on their hilarious journeys.

2. How do you come up with the idea of the book? What is your inspiration?

I had the idea of Poppy's fertility struggles through my own. It was actually through my own struggles that I decided to take a creative writing course and finally publish my first book. Everyone always assumes they'll fall pregnant no problem, but these days, so many couples are being referred because of problems.

I'd previously mentioned in one of the earlier books that Jazz was to inherit her money and I wanted to explore how it changes relationships. 

3. Do your characters ever surprise you? 

All the time! Sometimes they can be so outrageous that I actually question if I can put it in the book. Then I think, oh why not! They're normally the parts people always comment on saying they laughed so hard.

4. What has been your highlight since becoming an author?

I love going to the book signings. I remember my first one, thinking that no one would come to me. I was overwhelmed by the readers that took the time to come chat with me and say how much I made them giggle.

5. Grade your book. How many stars out of a perfect score of 5 stars?  Please give the reason too.

I'd give myself four stars because no matter how hard I work I always think I could have written more and made it better.

6. What are you working on right now?

I'm just getting over this book! Once I've recovered my next one is called Cock and Bull, but I don't like to say too much about them until I've dived in. 

7. Please say something to your readers.

Thank you so much for the support over the last few years. Without loyal readers like you I wouldn't be able to live out my dream every day.

Author info

Laura Barnard lives in Hertfordshire, UK and writes romantic comedy or 'chick lit' as its so often described. In her spare time she enjoys drinking her body weight in tea, indulging in cupcakes the size of her face and drooling over hunks like Jamie Dornan, Ryan Gosling and Leo Dicaprio.

She enjoys wearing yoga pants and reading fitness magazines while sitting on the sofa eating chocolate. She's a real fan of the power nap and of course READING!

She writes not to get rich or famous, but because she LOVES writing. Even if one person tells her they enjoyed her book it makes the midnight typing worth it!

http://www.facebook.com/laurabarnardbooks
https://twitter.com/BarnardLaura
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3490836.Laura_Barnard

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#BookReview: The Time of Our Lives by Jane Costello

The Time of Our Lives
by Jane Costello

Genre: Women's Fiction, Chick Lit
Publication: March 25th, 2014 by Simon and  Schuster
Format: Paperback, 496 pages
Source: Own
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Imogen and her friends have had their fill of budget holidays, cattle-class flights and 6am offensives for a space by the pool. So when one of the group wins a VIP holiday at Barcelona's hippest new hotel, they plan to sip champagne with the jet set, party with the glitterati and switch off in surroundings of unapologetic luxury. But as they mingle with movie stars, mafia bosses and millionaires, it becomes clear - with riotous consequences - that even in the most glamorous of locations, things can go wrong.

The Time of Our Lives is about Imogen and her best friends, who went on a holiday after one of them wins a VIP holiday at Barcelona's hotel. But it seems that their holiday is not going as they planned. I love Jane Costello's books for her writing style and humor. But I find that I didn't enjoy this book as her other books. 

The Time of Our Lives has a really good premise. I love the idea of the three best friends going on  a holiday, doing a few crazy stuffs and having fun. I am a bit irritated with Imogen and the phone calls from work that always interrupt their vacation. I want to see the best friends to really have fun on their holiday. But still, I do enjoy Imogen's conversations with her boss and how they were trying to figure out the new crisis at work.

Jane Costello never fails to make me laugh with her books. Imogen and her friends, Meredith and Nicola are fun characters. They went through a few mishaps on their stay, but that didn't stop them from enjoying the vacation. If you love chick-lit which feature friendship, a bit of drama and romance that will surely make you laugh, you should definitely read this book. 

Release Day Blitz: Waking Amy by Julieann Dove

Welcome to Waking Amy Release Day Blitz! Don't forget to visit the other participating blogs as well.

Waking Amy (Amy, #1)

by Julieann Dove

Genre: Women's Fiction, Chick Lit

Publication: February 23, 2016

Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Newsletter

Buy: Amazon

Amy Whitfield is blindsided when she comes home and finds a note on the fridge from her husband, Wesley, stating that after four years of marriage, he’s leaving her. Amy was in the midst of trying to spice things up, to bring life back to their boring marriage. It seems now that she was too late.

As Amy sits with her head between her knees, trying to figure out what to do next, a call comes from Mercer General Hospital. The ER nurse is telling Amy’s answering machine that Wesley has been in a car accident.

When Amy arrives at the hospital, she finds her husband in a coma. The doctors say there is no sign of brain damage, and Wesley will eventually wake up. Relieved, Amy sees this as her second chance: the chance to get it right this time. To channel the girl Wesley won’t leave when he regains consciousness… She just needs some help to pull it off. After all, she was voted girl most likely to die a virgin in high school.

Amy would never figure on getting that help from Mark Reilly…Wesley’s doctor! He’s a non-committer, too-cute-for-his-own-good bachelor, and completely the guy Amy begins falling for. It’s a race against time to see who wakes up first—Amy or her husband.

About the Author:

Julieann lives in Virginia, yet longs to live everywhere else. It doesn’t come as a surprise that along with her gypsy soul, comes an active imagination. That’s why she loves to write and invent worlds and people, so that she can formulate their happily ever after. Hobbies include cooking new recipes, sewing, and spending time with her cute boyfriend/husband and five fabulous children. Vacations happen in Nantucket or the Carolina beaches—anywhere there is inspiration for her next book. One day she hopes to travel to Italy, drive one of those little cars around the countryside, and speak the language fluently!

Participating Blogs

Chick Lit Goddess

Jersey Girl Book Reviews

Brooke Blogs

Love Chick Lit

The Phantom Paragrapher

I'm a Book Shark

Around the World in Books

Ai Love Books

Sweet N Sassy Bookaholics

Chick Lit Plus

Review: How to Lose a Bachelor by Anna Banks

How to Lose a Bachelor
by Anna Banks

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Humor
Publication: November 9th, 2015 by Entangled Publishing, LLC (Bliss)
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

When Rochelle Ransom auditioned for the dating show Luring Love, she had big plans for winning the prize money to help her favorite charity–and if she won the hot bachelor's heart, even better. But at the last minute she finds out the hot bachelor is her ex-boyfriend, Grant Drake. Desperate to keep her distance from him, she'll do anything–and everything–to get voted off.

Years ago, Rochelle broke Grant’s heart, and he's out for revenge. There's no way he'll vote her off.

After all, vengeance is a dish best served red-hot...and on live television.

When her hilarious antics to get kicked off the show escalate, Grant’s reminded why he fell in love with her the first time. Now he isn't sure which might be more fun... Seeing how far Rochelle is willing to go to get away or how far he will to keep her forever

Rochelle auditioned for a dating show called 'Luring Love' to win the money prize for charity. But when she found out that the bachelor was no other than her ex-boyfriend, Grant Drake, she wanted off the show. But the producer made a deal--if she stays on the show, she'll get the money no matter what. Even if Grant votes her off during the first episode. Of course, Rochelle saw this opportunity to get her payback to Grant.

I used to watch a few shows of The Bachelor (and other reality shows of that sort) during my younger days, so when I saw the blurbs, I know that I wanted to read this.. How to Lose a Bachelor is a light, fun, romantic read. I enjoyed it from the beginning. There were lots of laugh-out-loud moments as Rochelle attempts to make Grant vote her off the show was hilarious. And Grant's attempt to win Rochelle back, even if it started off as his way of revenge, was sweet. Most of all, I enjoyed the producer's tactics and game to try and make Rochelle stay, and Grant for not trying to vote Rochelle off the show, even if it was for the ratings. Rochelle and Grant's attempt to get payback to each other however, went off when they reconnected and realized what went wrong with their previous relationship. 

This was such an enjoyable read. I love the story line and the little drama, and was glad that there were no angst. There are humorous moment as well as sweet and heartwarming ones. I love how the story was written, and the sweet endings. I definitely enjoyed reading How to Lose a Bachelor. I would recommend this to fans of romantic-comedy.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher/NetGalley in exchange for my review.

Review: Lost in Geeklandia by E.J. Russell

Lost in Geeklandia
by E.J. Russell

Genre: Romance, Contemporary, Women Fiction
Publication: Sept 28th, 2015 by Entangled: Select Contemporary
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, NetGalley
Connect: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

She has 30 days to turn her enemy into her boyfriend...

Introverted computer engineer Charlie Forrester has coded an algorithm for love, a nearly flawless matchmaking program. But then she's challenged to prove its accuracy - on herself. With her dream job on the line, Charlie has thirty days to forge a romantic relationship with her "perfect" match...her ex-friend and now-nemesis, Daniel Shawn. Since her dating experience is expressed in binary, she'll need more than flirting lessons and a wardrobe overhaul to pull it off.

After falling victim to the same online matchmaking con he was investigating, reporter Daniel Shawn's professional reputation went up in flames. Now he suspects someone has rebooted the scam, and he's determined to expose the fraud and rebuild his career. Unfortunately, his efforts to get back in the game get sidetracked by Charlie and her adorable geekitude, even though she seems to know a little too much about digital dating for Daniel's comfort.

And when fake romance crosses into real chemistry, Charlie's formula for love might just be the perfect formula for disaster...

I wanted to read this when I read the title and blurbs. I guess, when you're a bit of a geek or nerd, you'll be drawn to read this book too.

Charlie Forrester has created a matchmaking program to help her friend with their romantic life. But then, she was challenged to prove on the accuracy of her program, with her dream job on the line, to have a romantic relationship with Daniel Shawn, her childhood friend, who just came back to town. Daniel Shawn's career was ruined after he was conned by the online matchmaking site he was investigating. He suspected someone was starting another matchmaking scam, and was determined to expose this new scam. 

Lost in Geeklandia by E.J. Russell was such a cute read. The writing was easy to get into, and the pace was just nice. Once I've started reading, it was hard to put it down. I loved the characters in the book. Charlie and Daniel were cute together. I especially enjoyed how Daniel got to know the new Charlie. And the supporting characters, mainly Gideon and Toshiko made the story much more entertaining. There were some references on Doctor Who and lots of Star Trek. But since I'm not a Star Trek fan, I didn't enjoy the references as much. 

Lost in Geeklandia is a light, fun read with just the right amount of romance and humor. The story reminded me to a few rom-com movies I've seen. But still, I enjoyed reading this book. I would recommend this book to fans of romantic-comedy or to anyone who was looking for a light and fun read.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher/NetGalley in exchange for my review.

Review: Plan Bea by Hilary Grossman

Plan Bea
by Hilary Grossman

Genre: Chick Lit, Women Fiction, Drama
Publication: October 14th 2015 by Booktrope
Format: ebook
Source: ARC, CLP
Connect: Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

How well do you really know the people in your life?

Annabel O’Conner has the perfect husband, two adorable children, an amazing job, and the mother from hell! Annabel doesn’t like it but has come to terms with the fact that her relationship with her mother, Bea, deteriorated to the point of forced and strained communications. However, an unscheduled call from Bea turns her world around and makes Annabel question everything she believed about her life.

Despite the fact secrets, lies, and misplaced blame have destroyed the women’s relationship; Annabel reluctantly agrees to help Bea plan her wedding. Little does Annabel know the impact of her decision.

In this Women’s Contemporary Fiction novel, Hilary Grossman explores the complex relationship that exists between mothers and daughters in a light-hearted and relatable manner.

Annabel had a perfect family, with a loving husband and two beautiful children. However, Annabel's relationship with her mother, Bea, was not that great. But Annabel's relationship with her mother was about to be tested again when Bea made a call and asked her to help plan her wedding.

I've previously read Hilary Grossman's Dangled Carat, and I loved it! I do think that the author's writing style had changed a bit in this book, but that's probably because the first book is a memoir. 

Plan Bea is a heartwarming story of a mother and a daughter. It is about making mistakes, reconcile, and learning to forgive. There were secrets, lies, drama, romance and happy ending. I don't think there were any dull moment in this book. 

The story was not what I was expecting at first, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was easy to relate to Annabel and I love spending time with her family. Her daughter, Violet especially, was adorable!! Annabel had an adorable and fun family. It was interesting to read about Annabel and Bea and learning about how their relationship gets to where they were. There are a few moments that made me laugh and moments that made me sad. 

The ending was a bit surprising. I totally couldn't tell what was going on until the very end. I admit that I was a bit frustrated, when the ending was fast approaching, but with a new possible drama emerged. It turns out that there's going to be a continuation with new characters. Yeay! I'm definitely looking forward to read the next book.

I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher in exchange for my review.

Cover Reveal: Plan Bea by Hilary Grossman + Giveaway

Plan Bea

by: Hilary Grossman

Series: (book 1)

Release Date: October 2015

Genres: Women’s Fiction 

Publisher: Booktrope

Goodreads | Amazon

How well do you really know the people in your life?   

Annabel O’Conner has the perfect husband, two adorable children, an amazing job, and the mother from hell! Annabel doesn’t like it, but has come to terms with the fact that her relationship with her mother, Bea, deteriorated to the point of forced and strained communications. However, an unscheduled call from Bea turns her world around and makes Annabel question everything she believed about her life.

Despite the fact secrets, lies, and misplaced blame have destroyed the women’s relationship; Annabel reluctantly agrees to help Bea plan her wedding. Little does Annabel know the impact of her decision.

In this Women’s Contemporary Fiction novel, Hilary Grossman explores the complex relationship that exists between mothers and daughters in a light-hearted and relatable manner.

Hilary Grossman loves to find humor in everyday life. She has an unhealthy addition to denim and high heel shoes. She likens life to a game of dodge ball - she tries to keep as many balls in the air before they smack her in the face. When she isn't writing, blogging, or shoe shopping she is the CFO of a beverage alcohol importer. She lives on the beach in Long Island.

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Review: Passing Through Perfect by Bette Lee Crosby

Passing Through Perfect (Wyattsville #3)
by Bette Lee Crosby

Genre: Contemporary, Fiction, Womens Fiction
Publication: January 14th, 2015 by Bent Pine Publishing
Format: ebook, 256 pages
Source: Author
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It's 1946. The war is over. Millions of American soldiers are coming home and Benjamin Church is one of them. After four years of being away he thought things in Alabama would have changed, but they haven't. Grinder's Corner is as it's always been--a hardscrabble burp in the road. It's not much, but it's home.

When Benjamin attends a harvest festival in Twin Pines, he catches sight of Delia. Before their first dance ends, he knows for certain she's the one. They fall madly in love: happily, impatiently, imprudently, in love. It doesn't matter that her daddy is staunchly opposed to the thought of his daughter marrying a cotton farmer, never mind a poor one.

It's true Benjamin has little to offer; he's a sharecropper who will spend his whole life sweating and slaving to do little more than put food on the table. But that's how things are in Alabama. Benjamin is better off than most; he has a wife, a boy he adores, and a house that doesn't leak rain. Yes, Benjamin considers himself a lucky man until the fateful night that changes everything.

I'm not sure what to expect from this book when I start reading. This wasn't the kind of book I usually read. So, I am surprised that I really enjoy reading this story.

Passing Through Perfect tells a story of Benjamin Church after he returned home after the war. He fell in love with Delia, and married her even though Delia's father opposed the marriage. Benjamin faced a lot of hardship, but he was happy with his wife and his son until that one night that took his happiness away. 

The book can be read as a standalone even though this is the third book from the Wyattsville series. The story was a bit slow at the beginning, but the writing was smooth. It was easy to get into the story. I can't put the book down once I picked it up. I need to find out what will happen to Benjamin and his family. I wanted to cheer for him. I wanted him to find his happiness after everything he went through. 

Passing Through Perfect was a great book. The writing was flawless, the characters were great and the story was smooth. There are lots of things going on! I was on a rollercoaster of emotion throughout the book. I'm glad that I gave this book a chance. I really enjoyed this. I think this is the kind of book that everyone would enjoy, even though this isn't something that you'd like to read.

I received a copy of this book from the author to provide an honest review.

On Tour: If I Say No by Brandy Jellum - Excerpt + Giveaway

Brandy Jellum is now on tour with CLP Blog Tours with her book, If I Say No. Please visit her page for more blog stops.

If I Say No
by Brandy Jellum

Genre: Chick Lit, Women Fiction
Publication: December 2014
Connect: Website | Twitter | Facebook
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Reid Harder thought his life was seemingly perfect. He had the woman he loved and nothing could go wrong. The only exception comes in the form of his brother—Rhett.

Set on revenge, his brother will stop at nothing to make Reid pay for his past mistakes. Teaming up with the FBI, Reid is determined to put an end to his brother once and for all. But sometimes, fate has other plans in store. His relationship with Liza is falling apart, enemies become friends, and family becomes his worst nightmare. With the future unknown, Reid must figure out a way to make amends with his past if he wants to move forward with his future.

Excerpt

“Reid…” Marco walks in looking like he’s spent the last couple of days rummaging through garbage. From the foul smell wafting off him, I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s exactly where he’s been me. “I’ve found him. I’ve found Rhe— ”

“What is that smell?” I cut him off as quickly as possible. He hasn’t noticed my mother in the kitchen.

“Found who?” My mother chimes in. We all turn our attention to her who is studying us with a watchful eye. “Please don’t stop on my account.”

“Ellen!” Marco says with false charm. “I didn’t know we were expecting you…here. Tonight.”

“Why wouldn’t I be here?” she says, grinning. “Apparently, my son is getting married in two weeks. A better question would be what are you doing here?” Her nose wrinkles. “Like that?”

She walks around the bar and toward him. Marco is a big man who can kill without a moment’s hesitation, but this little lady makes him cower like a scared puppy. I watch in silent amusement as he takes a few steps back. His eyes plead with me, but he’s on his own here. I’m already on my mother’s bad side and I’m not going to do anything to dig myself into a deeper hole.

“I’m…I’m…” He shrugs and shrinks a little. “I’m here for the wedding. Just like you are.”

“That’s a load of crap if I ever heard one.” She raises her hand and swats his arm. “I know you’re only around when there is trouble brewing in my son’s life. So tell me what’s going on, or so help me God I’ll beat you to the floor and make you tell me. Don’t think for a second I’m afraid of all this macho muscle garbage you have going on.”

Marco looks over at me again, and I hold back the laughter threatening to escape. This man has seen enough terror to last him a lifetime. He’s been in countless battles—in the military and in his own personal life. He’s built like a monster truck. He has no fears. He can handle anything.

My mother has just crushed him with nothing but her attitude.

“Yes, ma’am,” he says quietly.

“And don’t think I don’t know that you’re laughing back there, Reid Emerson Harder,” she calls out without turning around. “You’re in as much trouble as he is.”

Marco steps closer to me, putting distance between himself and my mother.

“Now,” she says, and she holds up a lethal-looking spatula. “Which of you children wants to tell me what‘s really going on here?”

Author Bio:

Brandy’s passion for writing began long before she actually sat down to write. As a child, she has had an obsession with reading, everything from the classic stories by Jane Austen to YA Fiction by Richelle Mead. Finally, in 2012, she decided to create her own stories for people to fall in love with. Brandy bounces back and forth writing both Romance and Young Adult Fiction (which is mainly just for fun).

At the beginning of 2014, Brandy signed a contract with publishing company Booktrope. She is very excited about the next chapter of her life and cannot wait to share her books and passion with readers.

When she isn’t writing, she can be found chasing after her husband, her four children and her black lab, Diesel. Or curled up on her favorite corner of the couch with her newest book.

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