Showing posts with label Book Tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Tour. Show all posts

Saturday, March 20, 2021

Book Tour: Review- Rivals by Jennifer Lane

Title: Rivals
Author: Jennifer Lane
Genre: Sports Romance
Release Date: March 19, 2021
Cover Design: Dan Irons, Designs by Irons


“I embrace my rival. But only to strangle him.”
~Jean Racine

After landing her dream job as head volleyball coach at Ohio State University, Lauren Chase’s career has become a nightmare. Her only hope of saving her job is to recruit a star player to her team. Too bad the player’s twin has signed a football scholarship for OSU’s chief rival, Michigan. And too bad Michigan coach, Jeremy Trent, sends sparks through Lauren every time they cross paths. But no way will she pursue an attraction to a man who represents the university she hates.

Jeremy detests his boss, and he hopes that signing the nation’s #1 recruit is the ticket he needs to become a head coach himself one day. Lauren Chase is already a head coach, and Jeremy has to admit that she intrigues the hell out of him. He wants to know why her performance has tanked after winning a national championship. He wants to see beneath Lauren’s fast pace and dirty mouth. But he can’t get with a Buckeye, right?

Maybe rivals don’t have to remain enemies. Maybe they can learn to appreciate their opponent’s strengths. And, if they’re lucky—if they excel at the game—maybe rivals can bring out the very best in each other.
 





"Absolutely loved this book. The rivalry was spot on. This book has it all, humor, love and sports." ~Michelle from Besties & Books
"The uncanny portrayal of recruiting high-profile athletes in Rivals completely transported me into the story. I became so invested in Lauren Chase's success! When Coach Chase met Coach Trent, the chance of finding love on the recruiting trail turned into such a charming contest--a game more meaningful than they could ever imagine on the court or field." ~Gwynn Harrison, Head Swim Coach, Bridgewater College
"Fun read that captures the best of the greatest sports rivalry in the midst of a smoldering romance."~Kevin Kropf

REVIEW: 

When I had the opportunity to read an ARC of author Jennifer Lane’s book, Rivals, I had to grab it because she’s one writer who does romances really well, mixed with sports and psychology- two of her fields of interests, and I’ve previously read and loved her sports romances Streamline and the Blocked series. Besides, I trust her fully and blindly to write and share the most awesome stories. I knew Rivals would show a newer, better and more brilliant side of Jen as it’s an adult romance (the others were young adult), and it didn’t disappoint even one bit.

While not the most well versed (in fact, not all all) with American sports, I found myself having a great time trying to understand how the system of college sports works when coaches of rival teams, Lauren and Jeremy who, while on a mission to recruit student-athletes, start to fall in love. From the twins Emma and Evan, they each get one and it was adorable and amusing to read about their journey with the students. As a teacher myself, I really loved the student teacher bond which was portrayed in the most astounding and relatable manner.

For someone like me who isn’t into reading about it, reading the sports scenes was fun and I never once felt lost or disinterested in knowing what was going on. The highlight of the book, however, was the romance was sizzling, saccharine and super fun. I found myself enjoying the banter between our two main characters. Jeremy’s firm, calm and understanding personality was the perfect match for Lauren’s feisty, fun and strong one- a perfect couple whose romance was enjoyable, hot and sweet.

Rivals is another great read by Jen Lane. While I do find it difficult to read e-books, this one had me wanting to read more and more, to the point where I hope Jen is considering writing a sequel (hint, hint) as I’d love to know more about the excellent couple that’s Lauren and Jeremy.


I did some makeup inspired by the state sports team colours mentioned in the book! Here's the look: 








Psychologist/author (psycho author) Jennifer Lane invites you to her world of sports romance and romantic suspense with a psychological twist!

Jen fell in love with sports at a young age and competed in swimming and volleyball in college. She went on to become the Honda Award Winner for Division III Athlete of the Year. She still gets high from the smell of chlorine and the satisfaction of smashing a beautiful volleyball set.

Jen’s latest novel is Rivals, a romance between coaches from rival universities. Her Blocked trilogy also explores the transformation from hate to love. Particularly in this time of division, Jen’s favorite theme is finding common ground.

A romantic suspense trilogy (The Conduct Series) and a psychological thriller (Twin Sacrifice) complete Jen’s collection of stories. She calls Ohio home and shares writing space with her two trusted feline collaborators: Tuxedo and Tessa.

Whether writing or reading, Jen loves stories that make her laugh and cry. In her spare time, she likes to exercise and visit her amazing sisters in Chicago and Hilton Head.


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Thursday, November 14, 2019

Book Tour- The Heart of Aleppo by Ammar Habib

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Why Ammar wrote The Heart of Aleppo

In an over-politicized world, my wish is for this work to humanize those we call “refugees”. The Heart of Aleppo is not about the politics of the Syrian Civil War or any other conflict. Its aim is not to convince readers to support any faction or political party. Instead, this story is about the unbreakable spirit of humanity. It is about how humanity often shows its true strength during the darkest times. . .


Two days before Nabeel leaves for the last time, I find him standing at the kitchen counter with his friend, Zakariah. I don’t know his rank, but Zakariah serves directly under Nabeel in the army and only lives two miles down the road. The two of them always seem to be on leave at the same time.

 Their voices are low, almost secretive, but I catch the look in Nabeel’s eye. Except back then, I didn’t recognize it.

 “What are you guys talking about?”


"This "stand alone" novel is a bittersweet tale of family, friendship, war, and sacrifices. It is a highly recommended reading material for Young Adults and Adults alike. It raises several good discussion points. It is ideal reading for Book Clubs."


He looks back at me with a smile, but it fades when he sees my expression.

 “What’s wrong, Zaid?”

 I glance at the ground before replying, “I don’t think I want to be a doctor anymore.”

 “Why not?”

 “…I don’t think I can.”

 He takes a few steps towards me before crouching down to come to my eye level, urging me to continue. “Ms. Farooq said I’m not smart enough.”


"The Heart of Aleppo starts with an explosion of action that drags you into the story immediately. That momentum slows at points, but picks up near the end, making it easy to breeze through in one sitting."


He takes a deep breath and glances down at my feet. His eyes look like he’s weighing something, wondering if he should say it or not. When he does speak, his voice is different. It’s no longer speaking to me as his younger brother but as his friend. “You know, Zaid, Zakariah was joking about what we were talking about.”

“Really?”

He nods before his gaze focuses back on me. “Not even a few weeks ago, my soldiers and I were in a bit of a… well, situation.”


"As with most war stories, the story told in The Heart of Aleppo is heartbreaking. Ammar Habib does a great job with the voice of a 13-year-old enduring the destruction of Aleppo during the Syrian Civil War. One of the things that impressed me was Habib’s ability to tell the story without including the politics of the war. It is truly a story of the spirit of humanity in difficult circumstances."

Wishful Endings - Excerpt

The foul stench is everywhere. It floods the buildings and road. It’s in every crevice. It’s soaked into the very brick and mortar of these streets I used to know.

 We walk in a single file: Salman up front and me in the back. The sack quickly grows heavy on my shoulder, soon seeming as if it’s filled with bricks. But I trudge on. The weight of the sack is nothing compared to what my heart is feeling right now as I see the city I call home—a city that has stood for over 7,000 years—suddenly turned into wreckage.


Not even a day and a half ago, we walked from school to the bus stop. The roads were crowded with cars, trucks, and buses blaring their horns. The sidewalks were packed with pedestrians and merchants. Now, it’s a ghost town. It’s as if there was never any life here.

 The city is… hollow.

 A wall of smoke and smog surrounds me on all sides, preventing me from truly seeing anything clearly. Is it a blessing or a curse? I don’t see any of the destruction until I’m right on top of it. If Salman was even five more steps ahead of me, he would be lost behind the wall. We’re out on an open street; yet, it feels as if I am trapped in a prison. The dark walls of this prison follow me, not allowing me to escape their grasp.

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Every step is harder than the last. My feet become weighted stones. I almost can’t feel the uneven and cracked concrete underneath me. It’s as if I’m moving in a trance. I don’t know where I am or where I’m going. I’m simply walking through the abyss and listening to the only sound: my soft footsteps.

 The longer we travel and the heavier my sack becomes, the more a fear grips me. The fear that we don’t know if we’re fleeing danger or walking into a den of hungry wolves. The fear that by the time we do reach home, what happened to Jari may have already happened to everyone.


Every time I look up above, hoping to catch some sight of the heavens, all I see is smoke. It’s blocking out any light from the stars. There will be no relief tonight.

I notice a silhouette up ahead. It… it appears to be the minaret of a masjid. Hope is suddenly injected into my heart. With every step, the minaret breaks out of the smoke, and I can better perceive the masjid itself. I see its domed roof. It’s standing tall above all the destruction. If it’s still standing, it’ll be safe inside, right? Nobody will come into a masjid and harm us.


Salman hops down to join Fatima. I follow him. My feet hit the ground hard, shooting a shot of pain up my legs. The sack violently smashes against my sore upper knee, and I almost fall over before Salman catches me. That hurt more than I thought it would. As I rise back up, the foul odor immediately hits me.

 The fear-striking silence surrounds me once more. It’s my only companion. The hollow sound of silence is worse than gunfire and explosions. Worse than screams. Worse than terror. Because mixed into this silence is abandonment and suffering.


"The Heart of Aleppo is a very powerful read. . . . I am giving The Heart of Aleppo a well deserved five stars. I highly recommend it for all readers. It is definitely not one to be missed."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

The Heart of Aleppo:
A Story of the Syrian Civil War
By Ammar Habib
YA Contemporary
Paperback & ebook, 252 Pages
July 26th 2018

Winner of the 2019 Independent Press Award
#1 Bestseller in "Coming-Of-Age" Fiction
#1 Bestseller in "Asian-American" Literature

 From the ashes of the Syrian Civil War comes this story of hope, love, and courage...

After standing for over 7,000 years, Aleppo's ruin came overnight. Separated from his family during the night the rebels attacked the city, thirteen-year-old Zaid Kadir is lost in the middle of a war zone. Alongside his friends, he is forced to survive the dangers of a civil war he does not even fully understand. Zaid witnesses the destruction of the brutal Syrian Civil War as it grows more deadly by the day and rips his city apart. However, as he braves this destruction, as he desperately tries to survive this catastrophe, he discovers something. Zaid realizes that it is in the darkest hours when humanity's spirit of hope burns brightest.

(Affiliate link included.)

About the Author


Ammar Habib is a bestselling and award-winning author who was born in Lake Jackson, Texas in 1993. Ammar enjoys crafting stories that are not only entertaining but will also stay with the reader for a long time. Ammar presently resides in his hometown with his family, all of whom are his biggest fans. He draws his inspiration from his family, imagination, and the world around him.


Tour Giveaway
One winner will receive a signed copy of Habib's national award-winning novel, Memories of My Future (US only). Memories of My Future is an historical/inspirational novel that was published in 2016. It received several accolades after its release, including the Independent Press Award in May 2017.

Ends November 13, 2019

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Monday, October 21, 2019

Book Tour- As the Light Fades by Catherine West

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
As the Light Fades
By Catherine West

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What was your motivation behind AS THE LIGHT FADES? Why did you want to write it?

I wrote As the Light Fades as a spin-off to my 2016 novel, The Things We Knew. Readers were asking for more books about the Carlisle family. I chose to tell Liz’s story, because I think she may have been the least popular Carlisle sibling. I’m always intrigued by the underlying stories of what causes people to act the way they do – what events from the past have shaped their future? What is their wound? I knew Liz’s story would be a fascinating one! And the addition of Drake, Matthew, and Mia Stone’s voices to the novel made it even more appealing for me. And of course, I love the setting of Nantucket, and I was eager to get back to it.


Eyes the color of dark toffee, flecked with gold, a hint of green on a good day. Eyes that have seen the passage of time, held laughter and tears, watched over loved ones, and reluctantly let them go. Eyes that still twinkle with mischief and a resolute determination that says this is not the end.

 The man gives a sudden smile, and recognition flips a switch.

 I think it might be me.

Jorie Loves A Story - Spotlight

Bookworm Lisa - Guest Post

Why I Decided to write General Market Fiction

Some of you may know that my previous books are considered “Christian Fiction.” For those who may not know what that is, it’s basically a story written from a Christian worldview. The faith message can be subtle or not, the characters all believers or not, but the theme of redemption is (usually) always present. Some books will be successful in both the Christian market and the general market, many will not. . . .


". . . I absolutely loved it. . . . This story is one where these broken people are brought together by fate and end up healing each other in more ways than they could ever imagine. Families finally find ways to make amends for past misunderstandings. Friends learn the importance of friendship and just being there for each other. Individuals are finally able to reach deep inside and finally find their inner strength. And romances are a more realistic slow burn of caution and the creation of a solid foundation. . . . It was well done and I loved soaking up every word of it."

Paulette's Papers - Guest Post

 Fun Facts About Catherine West

I thought it might be fun to share a little about me, since some of you might not know me and my books! I also asked readers what they’d like to know, and here are some of the questions they sent me! . . .

Pause for Tales - Review

"As the Light Fades is a story that deals with a lot of family issues, sickness, and abuse. However it is written in such a way that is not depressing or heavy with the topics but instead is full of hope and healing. . . . I enjoyed the message of this story. . ."


WHAT’S IT LIKE TO LIVE ON AN ISLAND?

This is a question I’m asked a lot. When people hear that I’m from Bermuda, that I was actually born and raised here, and still make it my home, their eyes widen, and they blink a little, and then usually the question comes, “So what’s that like?” . . .


"This book kept my attention. I got involved in the story. I admired Matt, the way he cared about Mia. One of the best books I have read for a while."

Splashes of Joy - Excerpt

Liz Carlisle never imagined she’d be back in this place. Certainly never dreamed she’d actually enjoy the simple act of walking the dogs around the Nantucket neighborhood she’d grown up in. Yet here she was.

Everything was different now. Renovations at Wyldewood, the rambling estate that Liz and her four siblings called home, were well underway. Her brother David and his wife Josslyn were overseeing the work on the house as well as running after their toddler twins, and her sister Lynette was still in Africa, so the task of trekking out with the family’s two labs had fallen to her. Truthfully, any excuse to get away from the noisy house, now more of a construction zone than anything, was most welcome.


"I thought the novel was a nice cozy read about forgiveness, friendship, and trust. The novel was told from a few different viewpoints such as Mia, Drake, Liz, and Matt. I like that it helped us get a well-rounded image of each character."


The cold she could handle. She’d grown up with it. But the dreary, dull days, nowhere to go, no city lights, no nightlife . . . well, maybe she wouldn’t miss that so much. She did miss her daily routine though. Rising at dawn to get in an hour at the gym before heading to work, being pulled along on the crowded sidewalks of the Financial District, the smell of smog and coffee and fresh bagels in the early morning air. The pinch of pride as she entered the shining glass building on Slate Street, riding the elevator up to the twenty-second floor to her corner office with a view of New York Harbor. Not that she’d ever really appreciated the view.

Hallie Reads - Review

"I have loved everything I have read by Catherine West, and As the Light Fades is no exception. It is a contemporary story, full of hard topics, authentic growth and relationships, and a sweet romance. It’s an entirely enjoyable read; I loved it and recommend it."


"Not only am I impressed by the story, but also by the author’s writing abilities. . . . As The Light Fades is a touching story of hope and redemption, of learning when to forgive, and let go. It was a refreshing and uplifting read. This was my first foray into contemporary women’s fiction, but it was definitely worth it."

Wishful Endings - Guest Post

Discovering Nantucket

As an island girl, having grown up in Bermuda, the thought of writing a book set on an island held great appeal. At the time of writing my 2016 novel, The Things We Knew, I was told stories set in the US would sell better than stories set on foreign soil, so I chose to set my story on Nantucket, a charming, tiny island off Cape Cod. . . .


"As the Light Fades is moving, meaningful, and memorable. It centers on mature subjects, such as family dynamics, self-injurious behavior, the aftermath of abuse, trust, and faith. But even with these serious themes, the story isn’t heavy or depressing. It’s rather uplifting and edifying."


"If I were to explain the storyline of As The Light Fades in a single sentence it would be, life is messy and family relationships are not always easy. . . . It's a good story about the messiness of life, of trying to put the pieces back together, and most importantly the need for family to stick together through thick and thin..."

Colorimetry - Excerpt

“What in heaven’s name happened here?” Evy quickstepped it toward them in high heels, sequins on her teal blouse sparkling, a bright pink silk scarf flapping behind her.

 “Elizabeth?” “Hi, Evy.” Liz pulled her cell phone from the pocket of her jeans. “I was walking the dogs and this . . . happened. We should call the police. She doesn’t have a license and the vehicle might be stolen.”

 “No, please, no cops!” The girl’s eyes flared. “And it’s not stolen.”


"This is another incredibly heartwarming and thought provoking story.

One of those at which Catherine West is so good at writing. (Every time I read a book by Ms. West, I am amazed. I think they can’t possibly get better, and yet, they do!) . . . This author has once again given us a look at some hard things in life, and shown us a picture of how someone can face those things and deal with them. . . . I highly recommend this one!"


A striped cat suddenly scooted out from under the wild rose hedge to her left, and Liz held her breath. “Seriously?”

 Sure enough, the small animal raced for the road, straight across the Jeep’s path. Tires squealed and skidded, sending sand, crushed shells, and small stones every which way as the vehicle lurched off the road onto the nearest lawn, finally coming to a crunching stop at the base of an old black oak.


 Why I write Family Drama

 “All happy families are alike; each unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” – Leo Tolstoy

When asked what type of fiction I write, I often respond with “Family Drama!” As most of us can attest to, families of all sizes will experience drama from time to time. In some cases, drama is the MO. I’ve always found family dynamics fascinating. Maybe that’s due in part to growing up an only child and always wishing for a brother or sister. As I got older, friends with siblings told me how lucky I was to not have to share anything or have anyone to fight with. I figured maybe there was some truth in that. But I think somewhere deep down, I still dreamed of that big family. . . .


The door on the driver’s side opened with a slow creak. Liz stopped a few feet away and watched a pair of skinny legs clad in tight jeans and clunky black boots emerge. And then a young girl stood before her.

A kid. Barely sixteen, if that.

Great.

Liz swallowed her first response and stepped closer. She gave the vehicle a cursory inspection and saw the airbag hadn’t released. No blood on the kid. No bruises that she could see. “Are you all right?”

Heidi Reads... - Review

"I loved the sense of hope and healing that kept the story from feeling too heavy as it dealt with themes of abuse, aging, and dysfunctional families in a very realistic way. . . . This book is more than a story, it is an exploration of life and the hardships that are heartbreaking but through grace can make us stronger and more resilient."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

As the Light Fades
By Catherine West
Women's Fiction
Paperback & ebook, 362 Pages
September 10th 2019 by KDP

Sometimes we’re placed in the strangest of circumstances for the most important reasons.

After her carefully constructed life crumbles, Liz Carlisle finds herself back on Nantucket, picking up the pieces. With the family estate under renovations, the solitude she craves seems out of reach.

Matthew Stone intends to steer clear of his new tenant. She’s carrying a load of baggage, but as long as she pays the rent, he’ll let her be. He’s got enough to deal with caring for his wayward niece, Mia.

Liz doesn’t have time for teenagers and her track record with men is abysmal, but an unlikely friendship forms between the three.

When her former boyfriend is charged with assault, Liz is called to testify against him. But he knows the darkest secrets of her life—secrets she’d hoped to keep buried forever, and he’s ready to reveal them. Telling the truth is the right thing to do, but it may cost her everything she’s worked so hard for, and all she’s come to love.

(Affiliate links included.)
Goodreads│Amazon│Book Depository
FREE on KindleUnlimited

About the Author


Catherine West is an award-winning author of contemporary women’s fiction. When she’s not at the computer working on her next story, you can find her taking her Border Collie for long walks or reading books by her favorite authors. She and her husband reside in Bermuda, and have two adult children and one beautiful granddaughter. Catherine is the winner of the 2015 Grace Award (Bridge of Faith) and the Romance Writers of America’s Faith, Hope & Love Reader’s Choice Award (The Things We Knew). Where Hope Begins released May 2018, and her latest novel, As the Light Fades, releases September 2019.


Tour Giveaway
One winner will receive a $75 Amazon Gift Card and a copy of The Things We Knew by Catherine West (print to US/CAN, ebook to INT)
Ends October 23, 2019

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Tuesday, July 30, 2019

(Late) Book Tour- Love's Remains by Jacqueline Simon Gunn



On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Love's Remains
By Jacqueline Simon Gunn

 We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

 What do you hope readers take with them after they’ve read it?

 I hope that readers will find something of themselves, something relatable within each character that will offer insight into their own relationships and choices and/or the possibility to think about their relationships differently. So many people find themselves in difficult relationships, holding on when it’s painful, staying when they want to go, being pulled toward the wrong people, not loving those who love them. The answers to these questions are complicated and not the same for everyone. That’s why I chose a fictional format as opposed to non-fiction. Instead of telling readers what they should do or advising, I wanted to give them the opportunity to see various relationship situations in action and then show “why,” show the motivation for the characters’ actions. I hoped by revealing the psychology through the characters, readers would find their own answers upon reflection. But the book is filled with drama and tension and like any other fiction writer, I hope my readers will enjoy the story.
underneath the covers - Guest Post

 What does Alex learn from moving on?

 Sometimes when we love we give so much of ourselves that when the relationship isn’t working it’s very hard to let go; our sense of self is invested and embedded in the relationship. We create illusions and hold on to them to make staying make sense. We create narratives to excuse behavior towards us that makes us feel bad. . .
E-Romance News - Excerpt

 I pulled her against me as we walked. We had taken our shoes off and were strolling along the edge of the ocean, the water washing in and out splashing against our feet. She loved the ocean at night, same as I do.

 “Let’s go in,” she said.

 “We are a little overdressed.” I raised my brow. She was always full of surprises. As self-conscious as she said she felt, she did things that reflected her freedom or her desire for it. Just like me. It was intoxicating to be with a woman who I didn’t feel like I’d be tied down by. Someone I could want to be with all the time, not feel like I had to be with.
Colorimetry - Guest Post

 Do we love people forever?

Since Love’s Remains explores what’s left between two people after the relationship is gone, people have written in and asked me if I think we ever truly get over someone. Love’s Remains addresses this theme in both romantic and non-romantic relationships. So, for example, Will has an estranged relationship with his father and new issues arise for him in the context of this relationship. The story shows that although he barely talks to his dad, there are ‘remains’ of that relationship within him that affect him in ways that he might not have even realized until he’s confronted with the unresolved emotions. . .
Jess : Which usually comes first for you, the character(s), story or the idea for the novel?

 Jacqueline : Before I even begin writing a book, I usually have a vague sense of the story and the underlying themes I’d like to explore. When I actually start pounding the keyboard, I begin with the development of my main characters, holding the story in the back of my mind, but letting the characters sort of take over the direction. It’s like being a passenger. I’m there, but I’m not driving once we get going.
Wishful Endings - Guest Post

 Why do we love, love stories?

 If you think about any movie or book, even those that aren’t in the romance genre, there’s often a subplot that involves a romance or teases us with the possibility of one. When people come into therapy, no matter what the presenting complaint is, relationships inevitably become a central topic. . .
Paulette's Papers - Guest Post

 Why do you usually write from multiple points of view?

 Most of my fiction books have at least three points of view. I do this because I want to understand what’s motivating each character, and I want my readers to see that choices do not happen in a vacuum. Every decision made has an impact on those close to us and then those close to them and so on. In this way, there are always webs between groups of people even when the connections are not obvious and/or the relationships are remote. . .
I'm All About Books - Guest Post

 What does the relationship between Alex and Cecilia reveal?

 The unfolding of the friendship between Alex and Cecilia was unexpected. At first, Cecilia was meant to be a secondary character, but the deeper I got into the story the more fascinated I became with her psychological make-up, her background and her decisions. Her unpredictability had me captivated. . .
“You’ve ruined my life.”

 “I thought we were waaaay past this.”

 “That’s easy for you to say. I didn’t hurt you over and over and over.”

 “I hurt myself by hurting you.” His face wore a look of compassion. I hated that look, because it reminded me that he was a good person, that he had tried over and over to apologize. He unwittingly brought out the part of me that I hated, and I projected that hate onto him, because it was easier to hate someone else than to hate myself. Tears poured out of my eyes. And he wrapped his arms around me, holding me as wept.

 Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...


Love's Remains
(Where You'll Land #2)
By Jacqueline Simon Gunn
Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 250 Pages
June 4th 2019

 The second year of graduate school started out as a new beginning. I felt stronger. My heart had stitched itself up. I had finally healed enough on the inside to let love flourish once again. But an ever-present ex-boyfriend made the unresolved emotions between us impossible to ignore.

 Then new complications emerged: Said ex-boyfriend began dating Cecilia, who just happened to be the ex-girlfriend of my new love interest. I should have hated her. I wanted to hate her. But, I have to admit, I liked her.

 As the semester progressed, the tangled web between us deepened in ways I never could have anticipated, and it spread to those closest to us. We had the same classes, the same friends, the same interests. Then, of course, there were all the secrets, some of which could ruin the love I believed I wanted, I deserved.

 Once again, I got pulled into the dizzying vortex of all that remained unfinished. And doubt crept in. Had I really healed enough to make myself vulnerable again? Had I made the right choices?

 But the big question is: Can we ever really leave past relationships behind?

 This is the second book in the Where You'll Land series, but can be read as a stand-alone.
Other Books in the Series

Where You'll Land
(Where You'll Land #1)
By Jacqueline Simon Gunn
Women’s Fiction, Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 408 Pages
January 8th 2019

After a bad breakup, I packed up my life and moved to Miami to study for my doctorate in psychology. I made one promise to myself: Do not get romantically involved while I was in school. I needed to heal. And then Will Easton came into my life. He was warm and sweet and intelligent. And he got me. What I didn’t know was that Will was running from a tragedy of his own.

 When you try to escape your past without confronting your emotions, you repeat those same past patterns over and over. And that’s just what happened to Will and me, along with a few others who got swept up into the storm that was our relationship. Then came the awful secret. The one that changed everything.

 Sometimes the most painful relationships are the ones that help us grow into who we are and to find the love we had been searching for all along.

 Which begs the question: Can we choose who we love?


 About the Author

 Jacqueline Simon Gunn is a Manhattan-based clinical psychologist and writer. She has authored two non-fiction books, and co-authored two others. She has published many articles, both scholarly and mainstream, and currently works as a freelance writer. With her academic and clinical experience in psychology, Gunn is now writing psychological fiction. Her Close Enough to Kill series, explores the delicate line between passion and obsession, love and hate, and offers readers an elaborate look into the mind of a murderer.

 In addition to her clinical work and writing, Gunn is an avid runner and reader. She is currently working on multiple writing projects, including three romance novels.
Tour Giveaway-

One winner will receive:
  • A Kindle Copy of Where You'll Land
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Tuesday, July 09, 2019

Blog Tour: Refuge at Pine Lake by Rose Chandler Johnson


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Refuge at Pine Lake
By Rose Chandler Johnson

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

. . . Refuge at Pine Lake also celebrates family, faith, friendship, and community. Another important focus is the milieu, so I create my Southern setting in minute loving detail. I don’t think you’ll feel like you’ve already read this story a hundred times, and you just might want your own refuge at Pine Lake. There’s a sweet satisfying ending, too. Enjoy!

Thanks again. I appreciate you so much.

—Rose


"I enjoyed the interaction with the children her sister had. Also, there was a dog in the book that adds a lot to the story. Also loved the character Mr. Charlie that goes fish with Matt."

Colorimetry - Excerpt

He dropped onto the bed, intent on crawling back under the covers, when a bump at the door stopped him. Audible sniffing, a benign throaty growl, then the swish-swish-swish of rapid pawing on the door. Sharp barks followed in quick succession, building to an impossible-to-ignore crescendo.

 “Ooh, good grief,” he groaned, scrubbing his hands over his face. “She left the dog.”

 He squeezed his eyes shut tight, pulled a pillow over his head, and would have ignored the incessant noises had it been possible. Instead, he was drawn into an analysis of the range of emotions he heard in the animal’s barks and moans. They had taken on a decidedly forlorn appeal.


"Refuge at Pine Lake is a great summer vacation or staycation read. While including all of the charm found in small towns in the south, the author tackles some big themes like grief and planning for the future while still listening to God's direction."


Nervous energy buzzed in his bones. He pulled out his laptop and plugged it in. But how could he relax with a woman flitting around downstairs?

Matt threw open the drapes to an astounding rush of sky, trees, and water. The blue-green water bordered by tall pines sparkled in the afternoon sun, the environment pristine and bright. The sky was the same blue as the woman’s eyes. And what was that look on her face when he’d told her not to bother with supper? He probably should have thought to curtail the annoyance in his voice.

“Argh,” he grumbled. “I’m not up for this.”


"As the novel progressed, I did warm up a bit more to the characters and was hoping that they get their own happy ending."


"If you love a good romance, this one is fantastic. It's a fairly quick read and the perfect one to throw into your purse for your own lakeside relaxation. I loved it, and would certainly recommend it to all."

Meagan Davenport - Excerpt

Robin sat in her studio drawing cattails in a pond when Callie started barking excitedly. Her subsequent dance by the door let Robin know they had company. Emmy had arrived. She glanced at the time. Just after noon. She began tidying the drafting table, gathering her pencils and returning them to the proper glass canisters, and putting her drawings out of the reach of inquisitive little fingers. After brushing her hands on her apron, she pulled it off, hung it on a hook, and headed downstairs.

 The characteristic glee of children playing brought a smile to her face.


"Overall, I loved this wonderfully crafted story with likeable characters and thought it flowed at a nice pace. I genuinely like the authors writing and will read more of her work and for those reasons, I recommend this book."


"I loved the setting of this story! Refuge at Pine Lake characters visited a local pizzeria, there’s a fish fry, and — of course — scenes around the lake. It’s like summer on paper!"


Three picnic tables stood under the trees at the back edge of the clearing. Robin sat on a bench and watched Callie play. As her mood adjusted to the rhythm of the place, thoughts of Caleb filled her imagination. In only a few more days, she would see him again. His handsome face came to mind. He’d promised to call her as soon as he returned from the fishing tournament.

 Butterflies filled her stomach, and sweet anticipation rose within her. Summer vacation had begun.

 Oh, wow, she thought with a smile. My future starts now.


"This heartwarming tale is a story of hope, grace healing, faith, overcoming and inspiration. . . . I highly recommend Refuge at Pine Lake for all readers. I believe so many would find it to relatable. I would love to give it one hundred stars if I could."


The cool breeze carried a hint of pine and the sweet wistful scent of honeysuckle. As he neared the water, ripples lapped against the shore. The boat tied there swayed and bumped ever so slightly against the dock. He stopped and watched the almost imperceptible movement. Then he followed the path Robin had taken.

 As if he had checked his past at some invisible door and walked into a mystical place, he looked at the lake and the sky and became an element in the environment. His thoughts, if he had any, were wordless impressions. When he came to a clearing around the peninsula, he sat on a weathered picnic table facing the water and propped his feet on the wooden bench. All around him was the vast expanse of sky and water.

Splashesofjoy - Review

"I really enjoyed this story. The beautiful Southern setting makes a peaceful place to call home. . . . Author Rose Chandler Johnson created wonderful realistic characters that drew me into the story and made me feel like part of the family. . . . I am looking for more books by Rose Chandler Johnson in the future. In the meantime, check out My Fathers House and God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea, also by this same author. I give this book a 5 star rating."

Moments - Review

"I really enjoyed this book, and am looking forward to what comes next in this series. Each of the characters became so alive and easy to relate to as well as working their ways into my heart. Once I started reading this book, I did not want to have to stop reading. I highly recommend this book!"


At four thirty, Caleb rapped on the apartment door, and as soon as he stepped inside, his smile vanquished all her fears. He had that easy grace that came from being an athlete, and a glow from good health and lots of sunshine. His eyes twinkled as he held a bouquet of pink Gerber daisies tied with a wide gingham ribbon.

 “Oh, Caleb, they’re beautiful!” Robin reached for the flowers and he reached for her. “How did I get so lucky?” she murmured as he covered her mouth with his.

 “That’s my line,” he whispered against her cheek.

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

Refuge at Pine Lake
By Rose Chandler Johnson
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
March 6th 2019 by Chanson Books

Robin Lancaster, a twenty-six-year-old former kindergarten teacher, has her summer and her life all figured out. She’s ready to be on her own, writing and illustrating her children’s stories at her family’s beloved lake house. Once there, she intends to rekindle a romance with Caleb Jackson, the area’s top hunting and fishing guide, and bag him for herself.

Complications arise from the start when Robin finds out her mother has rented the lake house to a man they know nothing about.

Matthew McLaughlin, forty-year-old widowed university professor and author from California, shows up at Pine Lake in crisis. A sabbatical might be his only hope to save much more than his career. He needs a place of refuge. Sharing the lake house with a lighthearted young woman and her dog is the last thing on his mind.

Caleb Jackson has his own plans. He’s used to things going his way, but a man staying in Robin’s house presents unforeseen challenges. When paths unavoidably tangle for these three, hearts are on the line.


About the Author

Rose Chandler Johnson is known for her heartwarming, inspirational writing. In addition to works of sweet contemporary fiction, her devotional journal, God, Me, and Sweet Iced Tea: Experiencing God in the Midst of Everyday Moments won the Georgia Author of the Year Finalist Award in 2014.

In her novels, Rose brings to life fascinating characters with compelling relationships embracing family, community, and faith. In distinctive southern settings, Rose creates memorable stories that will stir your heart. Readers often say her writing warms the soul as it reaffirms belief in love and wholesome goodness. Don’t be surprised if you sigh with pleasure as you savor the final pages of her stories.
​
Rose has lived in a suburb of Augusta, GA for thirty plus years. Before retiring from Georgia’s school system, she taught English, French, and ESOL. Currently, she is an English instructor at a community college. In addition to reading and writing, Rose enjoys cooking, sewing, gardening, and spending time with her six children and her beautiful grandchildren.


Tour Giveaway


- One winner will receive a signed print copy of Refuge at Pine Lake plus a $20 Amazon gift card
- One winner will receive a signed print copy of Refuge at Pine Lake
- US only
- Ends July 10, 2019

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