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Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Black Tie Optional by Ann Marie Walker Release Blitz Review





BLACK TIE OPTIONAL by Ann Marie Walker
SMP Swerve
Publication Date: May 30, 2017
eBook ISBN: 9781250120021; Price: $3.99
Paperback ISBN: 9781250163738; Price: $15.99


Description
The Proposal meets Two Weeks Notice in Ann Marie Walker's new standalone romantic comedy, Black Tie Optional, which New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Probst calls, "a fun, sexy romp that will keep every reader entertained!"

Everything about billionaire Coleman Grant III oozes power and sex. And not the perfunctory kind either, but the sheet clawing, heart stopping, gasping for air after you’ve screamed so loud you can’t breathe kind. From his dark wavy hair that stands in an artfully rumpled mess, to the blue eyes that sear your skin, to his full, sensual lips - on the surface he’s pure perfection.

Too bad he's an asshole. An arrogant, uptight corporate raider hell bent on destroying the environment one species at a time. 

Everything about Olivia Ramsey screams hippie humanitarian. From her blond hair tied in a sloppy bun, to her faded jeans with the Bonnaroo patch sewn on the thigh, to her combat boots still splattered with mud from the previous day’s site visit.

So it makes perfect sense that they would get married. In Vegas. Stone-cold sober.

Cole needs a wife. Olivia needs to save an endangered species. But what starts as a marriage of convenience soon turns into a battle of wills and sexual tension. Love is a game, and Olivia and Cole are ready to win.






EXCERPT
Olivia’s eyes darted up to meet his. Surely, she’d known this was coming? It was how every damn wedding ended. And what was the big deal anyway? It was just a kiss, something they’d done countless times the night before. Then why were his palms sweating? And why did it suddenly feel like Tiny Angus was duck walking across his gut? Cole knew the answer, even though he tried his best to push the thought from his mind. This wasn’t just any kiss. It was the kiss to seal their union.
He leaned forward ever so slightly and touched his lips to hers. He only meant for it to be a quick peck, just enough to satisfy the witness’s watchful eyes. But her mouth was so soft, softer than he remembered from the night before, and she tasted so sweet, like vanilla and cherries, and before he even realized it, he was cupping her jaw and deepening their kiss. Her lips parted, inviting him in, and he took full advantage, his tongue sweeping over hers in firm, lush strokes. With a soft moan, her body went lax against his and for a few brief moments, Cole forgot not only where they were, but why.
Elvis cleared his throat in a not-so-subtle reminder. Cole pulled back, and the King nodded his approval. With a curl of his lip, he tossed a white scarf in Olivia’s direction and mumbled a familiar “Thank you, thank you very much.” A track of “Viva Las Vegas” began to play from the speakers and with his cape held aloft to properly display the red, white, and blue eagle bedazzled on the back, their minister made a dramatic exit.
“I guess Elvis has left the building?” Olivia joked.
“Thank fuck.”
After a few awkward moments, she asked. “So what now?”
Cole checked his watch. “We better get back to the hotel.” The combined bachelor and bachelorette party for Matthew and Emily was later that night. And even though a loud party was the last thing Cole was in the mood for at the moment, it was, after all, the reason they were in Vegas.
“Oh right, we have that thing tonight.”
“Yeah, the thing.” Jesus, they sounded like a couple of middle school kids having an awkward conversation behind the school cafeteria. Maybe they could spend their honeymoon locked in a closet for a round of Seven Minutes in Heaven.
“Supposed to be the hottest club in town,” Olivia added as they made their way through the chapel doors and into the parking lot.
Cole squinted at the setting sun. “That’s what I heard.”
“So I guess I’ll probably see you there.”
He kicked a piece of gravel with his shoe. “Probably.” Yup, it was exactly like middle school. Only there wouldn’t be Seven Minutes in Heaven or anywhere else for that matter. His new bride had made it very clear that, despite the mind-shattering orgasms he’d given her the night before, she had no desire to consummate their marriage. Then again, she did seem rather invested in that kiss and as much as it pained him to admit it, so was he. Despite her smart mouth and stubborn attitude, the fact remained that he wanted her. In his bed, on her knees, bent over his sofa. Fucking hell right now he’d even settle for the backseat of his rental car. Perhaps she was feeling the same way. And it was their wedding night after all . . .
Cole looked up, hoping to gauge her interest, but it
was too late. She was already gone.





Author Bio
Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her on Twitter, where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

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Review

Black Tie Optional (Wild Wedding, #1)Black Tie Optional by Ann Marie Walker

4.5 stars

I was immediately pulled into this story. The idea of a marriage arrangement isn't new, but all the supporting details make Olivia and Cole's relationship stand out. They are almost as different as two people can be, practically archenemies, but the sexual attraction is inescapable. Sparring off ends with epic bedroom hookups which leads to a frenemies with benefits situation and a fake marriage business arrangement. Nothing will stay in the correct lines with these two. Despite having totally opposite focuses in life, they can't deny the good in each other. The storyline is superb and the cast is fantastic. Black Tie Optional is smoking hot, funny, sweet and romantic. I truly enjoyed reading it, and I definitely recommend it.



***copy given in exchange for an honest review***

FGMAMTC 

Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents






Tuesday, May 23, 2017

BUNS by Alice Clayton Review



The third in the hilarious yet sizzling hot Hudson Valley series from New York Time and USA TODAY bestselling author Alice Clayton.


Clara Morgan is living the dream, if you can call rebranding hotels that are desperate for a new life and running any kind of marathon a dream. Which she does. But the career she loves and the endurance races that keep her adrenaline pumping have kept her too busy to put down any roots. Growing up in foster care, she’s never been able to establish traditions of her own, which may be why she’s fascinated by the rituals that generations-old family resorts are known for. She’s especially interested in the Bryant Mountain House, and not just for their secret recipe for the yummy, gooey, can’t-get-enough-of Hot Cross Buns….



Archie Bryant, the man with the Buns, is fifth generation and one-day-owner of the charming yet run-down Bryant Mountain House in Bailey Falls, New York. He’s determined to save his family’s legacy from the wrecking ball the old-fashioned way—by gritting his teeth and doing what needs to be done. There’s no way Archie will be influenced by the new hotel branding expert his father brought in to turn one hundred and fifty years of tradition on its head just to attract a faster, younger, slicker crowd. But when some of Clara’s ideas start bringing in new, paying customers, Archie can’t deny that she may have just given him a shot at keeping his resort open.



It’s sticky, it’s messy, it’s sweet, it’s Buns.





Review

Buns (Hudson Valley, #3)Buns by Alice Clayton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've liked all of the Hudson Valley books, but this one is probably my favorite. It's not as RomCom as the previous ones. Buns is a little more serious. Clara hasn't had the easiest life. She grew up in foster care and learned that she couldn't depend on others. She can't be tied down to any commitments because she doesn't want to be let down by anyone. Her life is pretty much her job. She's actually a sweetheart, but most don't get a chance to know her. Archie is an interesting character. He's kinda nerdy and sporty. Because of his past, he's pretty much all business also. His work ethic makes him come off as rude, but he quickly becomes one of the kindest guys ever. Clara and Archie meet when she is hired to remodel his resort. It's bumpy sometimes, but their relationship is inevitable.
If you're looking for a more realistic romance that still has that happy ever after glow, definitely read this story.



***copy given in exchange for an honest review***

FGMAMTC 

Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents






Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity by Nabeel Qureshi Review




An Unexpected Journey from Islam to Christianity In Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus, Nabeel Qureshi describes his dramatic journey from Islam to Christianity, complete with friendships, investigations, and supernatural dreams along the way. Providing an intimate window into a loving Muslim home, Qureshi shares how he developed a passion for Islam before discovering, almost against his will, evidence that Jesus rose from the dead and claimed to be God. Unable to deny the arguments but not wanting to deny his family, Qureshi's inner turmoil will challenge Christians and Muslims alike. Engaging and thought-provoking, Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus tells a powerful story of the clash between Islam and Christianity in one man's heart---and of the peace he eventually found in Jesus. 
'I have seldom seen such genuine intellect combined with passion to match ... truly a 'must-read' book.' --Ravi Zacharias





Review

Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters ChristianitySeeking Allah, Finding Jesus: A Devout Muslim Encounters Christianity by Nabeel Qureshi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author is so passionate and sincere in his journey to find God. He was raised Muslim and comes from a loving home environment. I didn't really have much true previous knowledge about Islam so I found the parts describing it very interesting. He is a good Muslim boy growing up and through college. For some time, his best friend is a Christian. They have many discussions about religion over the years. Both are smart. They study historical facts to explain Islam and Christianity. This leads to him switching to Christianity. It's a very difficult decision because he was so devout in his beliefs, and his family is still Muslim.
I thoroughly enjoyed this entire book. I often feel that someone is trying to shove religion at me, but this book takes the reader along on it's logical and educated approach to everything. It speaks to the mind and spirit. It is also respectful. In the beginning, he is Muslim, and before the end, he is Christian, but he doesn't put down the believers of either religion during his research. I recommend Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus to people of all faiths and non-faith.



***copy given in exchange for an honest review***

FGMAMTC 

Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents






Thursday, May 4, 2017

CONCOURSE by Santino Hassell Blog Tour Review




About Concourse

Ashton Townsend is the most famous celebutante of Manhattan’s glitterati. The black sheep of his wealthy family, he’s known for his club appearances, Instagram account, and sex tape. Most people can’t imagine him wanting for anything, but Ashton yearns for friendship, respect, and the love of his best friend—amateur boxer Valdrin Leka. 

Val’s relationship with Ashton is complicated. As the son of Ashton’s beloved nanny, Val has always bounced between resenting Ashton and regarding him as his best friend. And then there’s the sexual attraction between them that Val tries so hard to ignore.

When Ashton flees his glitzy lifestyle, he finds refuge with Val in the Bronx. Between Val’s training for an upcoming fight and dodging paparazzi, they succumb to their need for each other. But before they can figure out what it all means—and what they want to do about it—the world drags them out of their haven, revealing a secret Val has kept for years. Now, Ashton has to decide whether to once again envelop himself in his party-boy persona, or to trust in the only man who’s ever seen the real him.

Available now from Riptide Publishing. http://www.riptidepublishing.com/titles/concourse


Top ten places you’d find Ashton and Val of Concourse

  1. Running. Both characters love to hit the road when they’re stressed or need to clear their minds. Considering both of their stress levels at times, this happens a lot. Val in particular gets antsy if he can’t go for a long run.
  2. Cadet’s Boxing Gym. Valdrin has been going to Cadet’s since he was a kid, learning to box with his long-time trainer. He was seen as a prodigy even if everyone thinks his heart isn’t in it.
  3. Footlocker or Foot Action. Valdrin might be a bit of a sneaker head. Just maybe.
  4. Valdrin doesn’t eat out much, but his favorite thing to do is visit the food trucks in SoHo or Union Square.
  5. Fordham University in the Bronx. Valdrin’s younger sister goes there, and he checks in a lot.
  6. SoHo. This part of Manhattan is the best place for paps to stake out and look for Ashton. He’s almost always seen down there shopping with his close friends Mere and Charles.
  7. Ladurée. If he’s not in Paris, Ashton can now get some of his favorite pastries in New York.
  8. Sunshine Cinema. Both Val and Ashton love frequenting this theater for indie movies. They came together a lot as teenagers.
  9. Central Park. They used to “explore” it as kids, or whenever Ashton was overwhelmed with his parents and needed to get out. Good memories of their earliest bonding moments!
  10. At each other’s homes. Although, maybe they’ll eventually live together…




About the Five Boroughs Universe

New York City—home of soaring skyscrapers, concrete boulevards, and the hopes and dreams of millions. A city where opposites attract and romance is found in unlikely places. From the glittering penthouses of Manhattan to the blue collar neighborhoods of Queens, values get tested, cultures clash, and connections made. Men of diverse backgrounds examine their lives, test their sexual boundaries, and seek success in an unforgiving urban landscape that moves fast and stops for no one. Despite the odds, there’s love to be found in the five boroughs as long as they’re willing to work for it.

Check out the Five Boroughs Universe. http://riptidepublishing.com/titles/universe/five-boroughs


About Santino Hassell

Santino was raised by a conservative family, but he was anything but traditional. He grew up to be a smart-mouthed grunge kid, then a transient twentysomething, and eventually transformed into a guy who spends his days and nights writing romance with an edge.

Santino is a dedicated gamer, a former fanfic writer, an ASoIaF mega nerd, a Grindr enthusiast, but most of all he is a writer of LGBT fiction that is heavily influenced by the gritty, urban landscape of New York City, his belief that human relationships are complex and flawed, and his own life experiences.

Connect with Santino:



Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Concourse, one lucky winner will receive a $25 Riptide credit! Leave a comment with your contact info to enter the contest. Entries close at midnight, Eastern time, on May 6, 2017. Contest is NOT restricted to U.S. entries. Thanks for following the tour, and don’t forget to leave your contact info!




Review
 
Concourse (Five Boroughs, #5)

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I like how this series embraces the diversity of New York. It has those coming from poor and rich backgrounds, the ones that don't have to work and the ones struggling with several jobs, entrepreneurs, teachers, dock workers, philanthropists and so on. The main couples have been a mix of ethnicities also. In Concourse, Valdrin is from Albanian descent and working multiple jobs to stay afloat. Ashton is from old money and became famous for a bit of 'acting out' and social media.

Honestly, I do not like reality tv or the rich and famous celebrity gossip type stuff. I don't keep up with them in real life and usually don't like to read books with these types of characters. Because of how I am, it seems certain that I would not like Ashton, but I adored him. The author does an excellent job of showing how human he is. He's not just the diva he shows his fans. I've always had a thing for book boyfriends who are fighters, boxers or MMA so my love of Valdrin isn't a surprise. These guys are just perfect compliments to each other. They are almost opposites in many areas but similar in heart.

I completely fell into the life these guys were leading and couldn't put the book down. I love when I have a reading experience like that. Concourse is sweet, sexy, romantic and entertaining. I recommend it for sure.


***copy given in exchange for an honest review***

FGMAMTC 

Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents