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I’ve been a Maricopa County Sheriff’s deputy for four years. Most folks don’t have a clue about what a cop deals with every day. Like a pack of attack chihuahuas, a monkey with a bad case of diarrhea, a hungry python, a Brahma bull named Bodacious and a six-foot iguana.
And that is just the critters. Now let me tell you about the two-legged varmints. Such as a three-hundred-pound biker who got a bit irate when I zapped him with a stun gun, or a murderous nun, and let’s not forget the senior citizens having an orgy. Ugh. My personal life isn’t much better. Off duty I’m a ballroom dancer which everyone makes fun of. At a dance competition Detective Sergeant Dante Delgado waltzed into my life. Law enforcement isn’t for the fainthearted. Are you brave enough to enter my world? |
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This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. B L Ryan will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Read an Excerpt Six Turns Later The sky was cast with bands of pink and yellow as the sun set. It was an exceptionally clear evening, and it was possible to see the Singing Mountains across the horizon to the north. As Jared gazed absently at the fringe of jagged peaks, Lord Ravenstock entered the room silently. He waited for Jared to address him. Without turning, Jared asked, “What have my esteemed councillors decided?” Lord Ravenstock’s eyebrows rose briefly. His face became an expressionless mask as he related the decision of the Council of Five. “It has been six turns since the death of your father, King Henry. The Council has decided that the Prince Ruler must select a woman to be his Lady Consort or they will be obliged to select a suitable woman on your behalf.” The Prince snorted. “They have already given me a list of women they deem suitable.” About the Author:Born in Saskatchewan, Betty has lived in several areas across Canada, from Ottawa to Vancouver Island while growing up. Her fondest memory as a child is of her father building a tent trailer and her mother sewing yards and yards of canvas for the tent. The family travelled across Canada and down the eastern seaboard of the United States for several summer vacations. Betty worked as a drawing office assistant in Oxford, England, for almost two years before returning to Canada to work as a topographical clerk in Edmonton, Alberta. She pursued a BSc. in Agriculture with a major in Horticulture from the University of Alberta. While raising her children, Betty worked as an Office Manager for a non-profit society and took writing courses at night school and from the Institute of Children's Literature, Connecticut. The garden has always been a source of inspiration and joy for Betty, as are all the beloved cats and dogs who have walked into her life. Betty believes stories are the foundation of our life. The stories we enjoy, the stories we tell ourselves, our children and others, reflect how we view the world around us. She enjoys writing fantasy for the youth genre because she feels there is still so much of the wonder of life, and the attitude that anything is possible, from this age group. Greystone is her first novel. She is currently working on the sequel, Greystone: A New Beginning. Free to read on KU: https://www.amazon.com/Greystone-B-L-Ryan-ebook/dp/B0CQK3HB8R/ref=sr_1_1 a Rafflecopter giveaway
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 War hero Major Tristan Ruthven never expected to inherit his rakehell father’s title. The new Earl of Asherton finds himself in need of a respectable wife to help bury his family’s scandal-ridden past. Unfortunately, no daughter of the Ton is desperate enough to accept him unless he discloses the true size of the fortune he’s inherited. He refuses. Not after a money-match destroyed his mother. Vulnerable, beautiful commoner Elinor Harcourt enchants Tristan the moment they meet. But he's seen what happens to sheltered young ladies dropped into the Beau Monde. Elinor’s happiness must prevail. She deserves the comfortable, quiet life she dreams of. Elinor can’t risk her future on a fleeting fancy. Tristan makes her feel more alive than anyone else, but he's not just an Earl— he's a soldier like her father. That's too many chances for tragedy. If only she could stop thinking about him…
- SNEAK PEEK OF A DESPERATE PROPOSAL -
“I will endeavor to make the journey to the carriage swift and painless, Miss Harcourt.” Asherton spoke so quietly, his voice so close to ear, that for a moment she could imagine only the two of them were present. Then he began walking, carrying her out of the room into the foyer and through the front doors as easily as he had carried her into the place on that first day. She tried not to think too much of how thick and hard his arms felt, nor how easily she might lay her head against his shoulder. She distinctly felt the loss of his warmth the moment his arms released her, and Heaven help her, she couldn’t hide her disappointment. She pretended to be focused on settling herself comfortably on the carriage seat, adjusting her petticoat with more care than she’d ever had for any piece of clothing in her life. She tried not to watch as he climbed in, but it was difficult not to… I must say something, mustn’t I? But nothing came to mind that didn’t make her feel like a fool. “You look quite handsome in that color,” she said once he’d picked up the reins. She looked away, eyes widening. So much for speaking without thinking. “Truly?” He glanced down at his coat, as if just noticing its existence. “I never give much thought to navy. I’m pleased you find it suits. I daresay not nearly so well as blue suits you, however, Miss Harcourt. Every artist in Bath must be desperate to paint you.” He spoke easily as he got the reins in hand and flicked them to start the horses moving. Somewhere, Arabella was mounted on Lady Summersby’s favorite mare. “There are far more beautiful and willing subjects to sit for the artists…” Noting Arabella to be at a safe distance, she turned to Asherton and lowered her voice: “I wish to apologize for yesterday, my lord. I fear you caught me in a somewhat altered state. I may have been too, er, open.” “You were a perfectly amiable companion, Miss Harcourt. I assure you, I noticed nothing amiss.” He glanced sideways at her, his expression amused. “Was there some particular concern you felt in our discussion yesterday?” “None that I can remember, my lord. Though I feared I might have said or done something I did not remember.” She took a deep breath to steady her nerves and finally allowed herself to smile at him. For him. I’m going to hell, aren’t I? “I am much relieved to hear I did not offend you. I value your good opinion, so I am glad I did not give you cause to think less of me.” “Anyone who would judge a friend for speeches made after drinking my sister’s cordials deserves a healthy dose of the same medicine. You were remarkably well-spoken, under the circumstances.” He offered her a smile in turn, a gentle curl of his full lips that did strange things to her heartbeat. “Now, be sure to tell me if the pace is too rough on your leg? I solemnly promised Evelina not to jostle you, even if Miss Weston should beg for a race.” “You are too kind,” she said, relaxing even more at his assurance. “And I am quite well. Better than well. I have spent too long indoors, I think.” She closed her eyes, tilting her face toward the sky as if soaking in the fresh air. Asherton nodded, falling quiet for several minutes as they turned off the house’s private lane onto the public path, though they did not head toward the village. “I confess, I was concerned that perhaps my actions yesterday led you to be concerned over your own. If I overstepped our familiarity, I apologize, Miss Harcourt.” She opened her eyes and watched him carefully. Perhaps she should have been more proper and recoiled her hand when he first touched her yesterday. But maybe he was referring only to the kiss on her hand? That part she definitely shouldn’t have allowed, but she would charge any feeling, unwed lady in that position to do anything differently. “There is nothing to apologize for, Lord Asherton,” she told him in a soft voice. He watched her with those intense hazel eyes for a heartbeat too long, and then steered the horses along the quiet lane, stopping under a tree so he could turn to her. Somewhere far too distant, she heard only birds, and Arabella—so faintly—calling to Lady Summersby’s maid, who’d accompanied her on another filly. How had they gotten so far away? “Perhaps you should chastise me now, Miss Harcourt. I confess, I wanted to kiss you yesterday. I fear if you do not set me back, I might imagine more to this familiarity than you desire.” She forgot how to breathe, and she blinked hard to test the reality of the moment. But her dreams of him were all watercolor pastels, and this…? This moment was all too vivid. Even the navy of his coat seemed too bright. And she could smell that infuriatingly delicious cologne. Damn. She didn’t mean to lick her lips as he gazed into her eyes, and when she finally let out a breath, the soft sound that came with it startled her enough to remind her she needed to say something. “How could I possibly chastise you when I…” want to be kissed. Hell. Try again, Elinor! “Forgive me, my lord. I am having trouble finding the right words. I—” His fingertips touched her chin, tipping her head up until she fell into those bewitching eyes and leaned in closer. So close. It wasn’t proper at all. She shouldn’t feel his breath, or the heat of his words. “The right word is ‘yes,’ Miss Harcourt. Unless you don’t want to be kissed.” The word fell from her as easily as her breath. “Yes.”
- GIVEAWAY -
 TBR Reviewer: Bella Star Genre: Romance, Scifi Heat: 4/5 - Smoking Hot A new alien romance series! I was excited to jump in. Her Alien Savior was book one in Sky Robert's new series. Renee was part of an alien exchange program that goes horribly wrong. Now she's stuck with Sou-el on a mission that she wasn't prepared for but her survival instincts were strong...
So, this was a mixed book of emotions for me. One one hand, I absolutely loved the story. The romance is smoking hot. The chemistry between Renee and Sou-el was really beautiful. I really felt the attraction between them. There was also nice action and cool world building. I mean this book sounds like it had it all ... almost. The point of view. Oh man, this was dual first person point of view. It was confusing at times and I had a hard time jumping into each character's head, it felt a bit like whiplash. I was confused a few times and had to scroll back to see whose point of view I was in. I really did enjoy the story but with the book written in that point of view, I just couldn't give it five stars. So definitely a mixed book for me. I loved romance and the creative with this world was fantastic. I'd say give Her Alien Savior a try and feel the author out. Sky Robert has a lot of talent and definitely someone to keep an eye on with future books.  Genre: Non-fiction, Memoir, History, Travel TBR Reviewer: Christine K. Sam Heughan and Graham Mctavish created a show called Men In Kilts. I am super excited to see it. The problem is, the show is on Starz. That is a steaming site I don't currently have. Was I really bummed out? Yup. Did I then find out they wrote a book about the series/travels? Yes! This is it, Clanlands.
It has a nice forward by Diana Gabaldon, creator of Outlander. Then we get into the real story. What was it like working together? They're goofy and work so well as a team. That was such a great aspect. I really kept the pages going and me entertained. There is a ton, and I mean a ton, of history. That was a bit much at times but I'm also not a huge history buff so that could totally be me. That part was just a bit dry and felt like a history lecture in school. There's also some great photos to look at. Overall, this was a well written book with a great incite into these actors and their friendship. Do you hear that knocking? That's us!
The TBR Pile will be having a grand reopening soon. Stay tuned for some amazing reviews and new prizes to win! The TBR Pile Update:
Well, life came at Christine and myself like a train. Neither of us were able to get out of the way fast enough. We are going to be TEMPORARILY stopping reviews and ad spaces at The TBR Pile. We hope to be open in 2024. We need a few months to focus on our lives and the chaos that is ensuing. Note: All paid ad spaces have been refunded. We will check the email when we can if you have any issues please email us. Please bare with us. We love books. We love sharing book. We will rise again!
Newly handfasted to the dark-haired archmage Lord Dal, Ellspeth and her husband escort his mother on a final journey to her ancestral lands. Their plans change when mercenaries under the control of a rogue mage attack. Dal's mother is severely wounded and Ellspeth is captured. Her sole hope for escape is Nobyn, an untrained wizard going through the throes of awakening magic. However, Nobyn is Bashim's apprentice and under the mage's total control. Dal must make an impossible decision whether to rescue his wife, cure his mother, or thwart Bashim's plans. More than who lives or dies is at stake. He might be able to live with his responsibility for the death of a loved one, but could he survive killing the future of magic. - REVIEW -Welcome to the fantasy world of Helen B. Henderson. Ellspeth has married the love of her life, Dal. Their happily ever after is shattered when they are attacked. Dal’s mother is hurt and Ellspeth is taken. Now Dal has a hard decision to make, who to save. It might also end magic in their world, forever…
I liked Ellspeth, besides the cool name. Dal is the hero put in a tough spot. He’s worried about his mother, trying to save his wife and he always seems to be one step behind. I have to say the magic in this book was really well written. Swords and magic, it really kept me glued to the pages. The whole story is full on intrigue and interesting characters. I did not read the first book in the story, so it was a bit fuzzy in places. There are a lot of characters, I wish the author would have paired that down a bit just so it was easier to keep them all straight. That said, I enjoyed this fantasy world. Helen B. Henderson weaves a fantasy world like a sunset painting … but add swords and a handsome hero! I look forward to reading more from this author. If you enjoy fantasy or sword/magic in your books than I’d highly recommend Windmaster Legacy.
Greta McDonald is convinced she doesn’t have time for love, but her dearly departed parents feel differently. Attorney Greta McDonald runs a free legal clinic for Milwaukee’s financially disadvantaged population. Funded by the estate of her late parents, Greta’s dedication to those who can’t afford legal services leaves no time for romance. While on Earth, Melissa and Steven McDonald had enjoyed a true love match and they want the same for their daughter. Unfortunately, angels are only permitted to observe family members left behind, and in times of extreme danger, request assistance, but they are not allowed to interfere in matters of the heart. The couple has already tested God’s indulgence several times and now they’re facing the possibility of being cast out of Heaven into Purgatory. Enter Aaron Buckley, a ruthless litigator, and Greta’s primary nemesis in court. Despite their differences, he is determined to win Greta’s heart. Unfortunately, Greta’s commitment to her clinic, her resistance to a relationship, and her propensity to place herself in peril, threaten to prevent a love match. Without a little heavenly intervention, this couple may never have the opportunity to embrace the miracle of true love. When Aaron’s grandfather offers a family-tested three-part plan to win Greta’s heart, Aaron is all in. Unfortunately, Greta isn’t making things easy, but as everyone knows, the show’s not over until the heavenly choir sings! - REVIEW -This was a different kind of story. Greta’s parents passed away and they decided that they would help her find happiness from heaven. Aaron is Greta’s work nemesis but they feeling are brewing just under the surface. With a little angelic help, they may just find their happy ending.
So, the whole angelic parents trying to find love for their daughter didn’t work for me. It was just … odd. There are so many things in the world to fix but they chose that and they have rules that they have to follow. I don’t know. It just didn’t sit right. Maybe you’ll enjoy it though, this is simply my opinion. That said, their romance is beautiful. Greta is an attorney who has to deal with Aaron, a litigator. They have their verbal spares but beneath it all is the heated romance. I like how persistent Aaron is. He knows what he wants and he isn’t going to give up without a fight. In the Midst of the Angels is a sweet read!
He’s a rock star with stage fright. She’s a therapist with a dangerous secret… Sebastian Roe was shot onstage during a concert five years ago, sending him into a creative tailspin and leaving him with a deep fear of performing. But his love of music is too strong to keep him off a stage forever, despite the fact the police never caught the gunman. He just needs a little help getting back in front of an audience, and figures announcing a U.S. tour will force him back onstage. Unfortunately, it's bringing up his worst nightmare and puts his sold-out comeback tour in jeopardy. Mia Merrill was in the audience the night of Sebastian’s fateful concert. She loves his music and wants to help him overcome his PTSD and get him back onstage, but there’s another reason she’s determined to become his therapist. She’s the reason he was shot. Driven by guilt and a need to atone, Mia takes Sebastian on as a patient. Romantic sparks fly between the two during their therapy sessions, but no sooner do they start to make progress on Sebastian’s stage fright than the gunman announces he’s back to finish the job. - REVIEW -Trauma can lead to all sorts of issues. For Sebastian it was being shot on stage. He's happy to be alive but also terrified of it happening again. Mia offers to help, she is after all a therapist. As the sparks fly, a secret is revealed that may ruin their budding romance.
I love how the author portrays Sebastian. Men are so often looked as the tough ones, and here he is getting therapy which begins to help him. He was flawed and human which made him all the more appealing. The tension between Mia and Sebastian was great. The ethical bit about falling in love with her patient felt realistic and a serious problem (for her future). It was interesting to read about the rock band life as well. The only issue was the editing being a bit rough. Overall, I enjoyed Rock Star. I fell like this is a great start to a series in this authors world. 
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Tycho Dwelis will be awarding a $10 Amazon GC and a signed print copy of the book (US ONLY) to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
Read an Excerpt Black Knife hesitantly reached out and touched the glass, the shimmering surface sticking to his fingers a little and jiggling, like jelly. Soon, his hand came through, then an arm, then a leg, and, at last, Black Knife stood on the dresser. What Brenden thought only possible in his fantasy novels came true right before his very eyes. Black Knife jumped off the dresser and started to approach Mr. O’Brien, but something jerked his arms back. The shackles from his cell held fast to his wrists and were now stuck in solid glass. He yanked them, but with no luck, and looked to Mr. O’Brien. “Well?” “Well, what?” Mr. O’Brien replied coyly, sitting next to Lettie. “There’s no way in the Seven Heavens that I’m going to unchain you yet. We need to come to an agreement first.” “We shouldn’t talk here, and you should unchain me. This mirror goes right into Athos’ dungeon.” “Do all mirrors do this?” Brenden asked, running his fingers over the chain that extended through the mirror. “No,” Mr. O’Brien replied. “Only ones that have been enchanted to be portals. I’ve collected several of them and kept them in my home to… keep an eye on things.” About the Author: 
I currently live in Colorado and have my MA in Publishing. Website: http://www.tychodorian.com Linktree (includes all of my newsletter, social media, and projects): https://linktr.ee/tychodorian TikTok: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZTRKUVUyS/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tychodorian Twitter: https://twitter.com/tycho_dorian Instagram: https://instagram.com/tycho_dorian Amazon Buy Link: https://www.amazon.com/One-Pale-Reflection-Tycho-Dwelis-ebook/dp/B0BZ7QN4KC/ref=sr_1_1 a Rafflecopter giveaway |
Tristan needs a wife. Elinor needs a future. It's a perfect match... Except he's an earl. She's a commoner.
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