Wintergreen

One good thing about being a reviewer is that you get to receive and keep free books that’s yet to be released by the publisher. I’ve requested this Wintergreen by Jennifer Greene-to be released somewhere in February 2011 and I’m very pleased to say that despite of the fact that I somewhat dislike contemporary romance, I could actually stomach Ms. Greene’s books.

Wintergreen by Jennifer Green is all about a mother’s sacrifice and the search for her own happiness. It’s really a heartwarming and romantic story though in the beginning, the story really makes your blood boil. You know, the distrust and prejudice towards the protagonist and all.The characters are imperfect, but that’s what makes Wintergreen unique and close to home.

I like this story. It reminds me that sometimes, when we live, we not only live for ourselves, but we also live for those who depended on us. And while sacrifices ought to be made and the burden of motherhood is inescapable, we should not stop being ourself and stop pursuing our dreams and happiness.

Anyway, Wintergreen is about Lorna Whitaker who will do anything for her nine-year-old son, Johnny-even if it means asking his late father’s family for help. Cast out by the Whitaker clan after her husband, Richard, accused her of being unfaithful, Lorna has been struggling to make ends meet as a single mom ever since. But desperation finally forces her to turn to Richard’s older brother, Matthew. Things gets messy from that point onwards.

Matthew Whitaker is struck by the reappearance of his brother’s former wife, and the very un-brotherly feelings Lorna inspires in him. Though he’s eager to explore the new chemistry between them, he still can’t trust her-and he still doesn’t believe Johnny is his nephew…

Nice book, I rate this 4 out of 5 stars. It’s one of those books you would like to curl with under a blanket.

I received this ARC from Carina Press via Netgalley, and I was not required to give a positive review for it, nor did I received any monetary benefit for writing a review.

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Silver and Spice

When I first requested this ARC, Silver and Spice by Jennifer Greene from Carina Press, I thought it’s really a naughty book, considering the suggestiveness that’s portrayed by the cover, where a man and a woman is locked in a compromising position along with discarded clothes lying around messily.

But boy, was I wrong. This book is nothing like your regular ‘wham-BAM- thank you Maam’ kinda romance, and I find the the story rather sweet and cute though it’s pretty suggestive along the way.

This book tells the story of love lost and found, and building trust in the one that you loved. Excellent story telling. It tells the story of Jake Rivard.

He had been back in Grosse Pointe for only twenty-four hours, and already banker Anne Blake’s well-ordered world is in chaos. Again. Every time the man with the sexy silver-gray eyes shows up, she falls into bed with him. And every time he walks away, there’s an ache in her heart she can never ease. Now that she has the stable life she’s always craved, Anne’s not about to let him seduce her again. No matter how much she wants him to. She knows better this time around.

But then there’s a problem. There’s always a problem, isn’t there? What’s a story without a conflict or two. Jake’s not leaving this time without Anne by his side. He’s determined to do the right thing and marry her, despite her insistence that their relationship doesn’t work outside of the bedroom.

All he asks is that she spend two weeks with him in Idaho’s Silver Valley, managing his finances. And if it will prove to her that they have more in common than lust, Jake’s prepared to keep his hands to himself for the whole trip.

But is two weeks enough time to convince Anne that the only thing standing between them is the wall she’s built around her heart?

Absolutely a cute story. Recommended for those who are looking for a sweet romance. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars, and it’s definitely suitable for a V-day present.

I received this ARC free from Carina Press via Netgalley, and I was under no obligation to write a positive review for it. I was also not paid for this.

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Naughty and Nice

Naughty and Nice is a collection of stories by various authors:

Holiday Sparks
By Shannon Stacey

House-sitting for her parents seemed like a good idea, until the microwave blew up and the lights went out.

Now Chloe Burke thinks upgrading the electrical system of her childhood home while they are away would make the perfect Christmas gift. Fortunately, there’s an electrician in town who can get the job done by the holidays.

Scott Quinn has wanted to get his hands on the Burkes’ wiring for almost as long as he’s wanted to get his hands on their daughter. Chloe didn’t notice Scott back in high school, but she’s noticing him now, and soon they’re indulging in a little festive fun: no strings, no expectations. After all, Chloe plans to get out of this goldfish bowl of a town and back to her real life in Boston by New Year’s.

But Chloe and Scott discover they enjoy each other’s company just as much out of bed. Could their holiday fling turn out to be the real thing?


All She Wants For Christmas
By Jaci Burton

Big Star, Small-Town Christmas

Country singer Riley Jensen would never have returned to her small Missouri hometown if her publicist hadn’t come up with the scheme to tape a Christmas special there. So she never would have known that the man who broke her heart at eighteen-causing her to flee to Nashville-was now a widower with a seven-year-old daughter. Riley has ten years of angst-filled hit songs and Grammy awards to prove she doesn’t need Ethan Kent. But suddenly, she can’t help thinking of all she gave up by running away…

Ethan Kent knew Riley had the talent and the drive to make it as a singer. He also knew she wasn’t going anywhere if she stayed in their nowhere town for him. Then one night and one huge mistake sent her running on the road to fame. Which doesn’t mean he ever stopped loving her…

But with so much separating them, can Riley and Ethan find their way back together one magical country Christmas?


Unwrapped
By Megan Hart

Naughty is Nice

Newlyweds Leah and Brandon Long are finally taking a honeymoon. But just a few days into their Christmas-in-Vail vacation, Leah takes a tumble on the slopes, severely spraining her ankle. Being stuck indoors isn’t so bad though: the luxurious chalet boasts a hot tub and cozy fireplace. Besides, sitting with her feet up while Brandon serves her in every way a man can serve a woman is exactly how both of them like to spend their time.

Leah would be in heaven, if only Brandon didn’t insist on playing with the dynamic of their relationship. With kinky sex and deep conversation the only things on the agenda, Leah can’t avoid the discussion of how things might change. Will she be ready to take their marriage to the next level in the New Year?


Believe
By Lauren Dane

Their First Christmas, Bound Together…

All Jude wants for Christmas is Rori, all to himself. It’s their first holiday season as a couple, and staying home, seeing friends and family, means they’ll be surrounded by the memory of Rori’s late husband. It’s time for Jude and Rori to create their own traditions. Time for them to fully explore their most intimate desires to dominate and submit.

Rori is thrilled when Jude whisks her away to a luxury resort in the mountains. Spending Christmas away, just the two of them, is the perfect time to show him she’s ready to give herself to him completely…

My say on the collection of the stories in Naughty and Nice? Well, let’s just say that this book surely will sizzle up your winter or rainy day. It is so nice to know that some naughty romance is not just dead yet in the world. Naughty and Nice is not for children though the tales in it have the happily ever after in it. Naughty and Nice is both for the naughty and nice, and it’s really a funny and heartwarming read. This book makes you want to believe in romance and sedction again if your mundane life lacks such element. Thumbs up for the authors of naughty and nice, and I certainly enjoy this book. It’s very hard to put down and really sensational. Perfect as gifts during winter and Valentine’s day.

I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars, and I received this ARC free from Carina Press via Netgalley. I was not required to write a gleaming review for the ARC that I’ve received.

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Undeniably Yours

Author: Shannon Stacey

Title: Undeniably Yours

Publisher: Carina Press

Pub Date: 11/01/2010

ISBN: 9781426890727

Undeniably yours sends out this equation: One night stand+2% condom failure rate=?

Undeniably Yours is  a contemporary, romantic fiction, and it tells a tale of lust and sheer luck. Undeniably yours is about a bar owner known as Kevin Kowalski who is used to women throwing themselves at him.

As of late he’s more interested in finding a woman to settle down with. And so when he managed to lure Beth into his bed for a night of passion and managed to get her pregnant despite of the fact that they took precaution, Kevin started to warm to the prospect of settling down with her.

His only problem? She doesn’t want him and would do anything to stay away from the man, pregnant or not pregnant. She’s strong and independent, and why would she wants to trouble herself with a man like Kevin, anyway?

I find this story heartwarming and rather funny, but like most typical romance, it gets rather predictable. However, the story is well developed, and the plot was rather concrete from the beginning til the end. Good for a lazy Sunday read. I rate this book 3.5 stars our of 5 stars, and highly recommended for those who are in need of a 2 hour romance read.

I received this ARC free from Carina Press via Netgalley. I was not required to write positive review for it.

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Stroke of Midnight

Title: Stroke of Midnight

Publisher: Carina Press

Imprint: Carina Press

Pub Date: 24/01/2011

ISBN: 9781426891137

I’m still having my  holiday depression cum blues, and therefore, I did a little fiction marathon last night. Picked up an ebook. This time it’s Stroke of Midnight by Bonnie Edwards is a very sexy and steamy read.

This book is about a hardworking single mom Jaye Sinns who happens to meet a younger playboy Alexander Carmichael.

The sexual chemistry between them is undeniable and unable to resist temptation, Jaye gives in to her lust and allows him to whisk her away for her first-ever vacation. Two glorious weeks of no inhibitions, no strings and no responsibilities.

Now… she’s expecting a no strings attached, but after two weeks with her, Alex is not just satisfied with just two weeks. He wants forever, and something more solid. He’s tired of being a playboy and wants what Jaye has, and therefore…his seduction begins. But then again, he’s not the sort of guy whom Jaye would want to be involved in for long term commitment, and for the first time in his life, Alex feels as if he couldn’t seduce a woman or buy a woman’s affection.

Okay, generally, I like this story. All the element for a good romance story is there. The fantasy, the escapism, the romance, the steamy sex scenes. Everything is good, but I found it rather short. I think this book is just about 30k words. Quite below my standard for a full fledge novel. However, the character was well develop, so I guess though it’s short, this book is good enough to satiate my cravings for some romantic stories.

I rate this book 3 out of 5 stars. I received this Advance Reader Copy as my reading pleasure, a courtesy of Carina Press through Netgalley.


Cleffairy: Thank you Mamarazzi a.k.a Mamakucing and Smallkucing for sharing Netgalley with us readers. You’re a real gem.

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Softly and Tenderly

Softly and Tenderly by Sara Evans and Rachel Hauck is a very thought provoking and inspiring book. but a little bit too draggy for me, though. It is about having faith and forgiveness in things that happens in life. This book is a sequel of ‘Sweet by and By’. I did not read ‘Sweet By and By’, but I think this book can be read as a stand alone. The story is concrete and solid even on it’s own.

Softly and Tenderly is about Jade, a woman whom have moved on from a bitter past and into a bright future. However, her trust has been broken  by a man that she loved and she decided to run away from all of it. How can you forgive a man who is your husband when he told you that he had an illegitimate child and he wants to raise the child in your own home?

Well, I am not quite sure what I’d do if I’m in jade’s position, but this book makes me think alot. It’s really a thought provoking book for a Christian fiction. The author brings up the issue of faith, divorce and reconciliation as well when other Christian fiction would not bring it up so boldly.

Overall, I like this book though the pace is a bit slow. I rate this book 4 out of 5 stars. It’s indeed a gripping fiction.

I received ARC free from Thomas Nelson publisher. I was not required to write a positive or beaming review for it. All opinions are my own.

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Hush Hush…

I’ve been feeling under the weather these few days, and I have no mood to do anything apart from curling up with a few good book. Got to take advantage of the rainy weather. It gives me the mood for fiction. A dark fiction, that is. Initially I wanted to write about something else, but since what I had in mind is rather depressing, I think I’d spare you folks from my whiny, intolerable complaints a while longer and share with you what I’ve read today, since it’s Wednesday- my book review day.

All right, folks, if you’re into paranormal, good girl likes bad guy fiction, then this book is for you. It’s about a normal teen girl and a fallen angel.

Hush Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick  if a very intriguing story. For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She’s never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along.

With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment.

But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora’s not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can’t decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel.

For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen – and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

CHECK OUT THE BOOK TRAILER

My say: Very thrilling and exciting read with some psychological queries thrown in. Teenagers and young adult probably will love this to bits.

Tempted to read this? Well, email me for a ..pdf browsing copy of it or leave your comment here.

Cleffairy: Hush Hush reminds me abit of my own book, Royal Masquerade. Fallen angels, devils and stuff. But of course, my main character Narcissus does not exactly revel in tormenting his love interest the way Patch did.

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Beneath The Night Tree

Do I have a child? Julia DeSmit knew she would face the question eventually, but she didn’t expect it now. At twenty-four, she is finally content with the way her life has unfolded. A single mother to her son and young brother, she works at the local grocery store while chipping away at a two-year degree. All her free time is spent with her unorthodox family—her boys, her grandmother, and her boyfriend of five years. It’s not perfect, but Julia is happier than ever.

So when she receives the cryptic e-mail from her son’s father, Julia’s world is turned upside down. She hasn’t heard from Parker since he left her in a college parking lot nearly six years ago. But one look at her son—the spitting image of his father—is enough to convince her that, for better or worse, Parker is a part of their story. Faced with this new reality and an unexpected tragedy, Julia begins a tightrope walk between what was and what is, what she hopes for and what will be.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nicole Baart was born and raised in a small town in Iowa, where she and husband now live with their three young sons. After the adoption of their second son, Nicole discovered a deep passion for global issues and is a founding member of a nonprofit organization that works with a church and orphanage in Liberia.

Nicole is the critically acclaimed author of three novels. After the Leaves Fall was published in 2007 and was followed by a sequel, Summer Snow, which was a Christy Award finalist. That was followed by The Moment Between, Nicole’s first stand-alone novel.

Visit her Web site HERE to find out more about her. 😀

ISBN: 978-1-4143-2323-7

Release: February 2011

MY REVIEW

I was rather skeptical when I this book in my mailbox. I thought it’s going to be another of one of those dreadful chic-lit that could put me to sleep the instant I skim through the pages. But I was wrong, very wrong, as Beneath The Night Tree is a very moving and beautiful story.

I was immediately drawn into the lives of the characters in the story, and I find myself being pulled into their world where I laugh along with them and cry along with them.

This book taught me one lesson: We may have our lives planned, but there’s always surprises and unexpected things that comes along the way. It may be good and it may be bad, and we all must learn to live our lives one day at a time.

You see, the main protagonist, Julia thought that she had it figured out and her life is well planned after her unexpected pregnancy. She had new life and new boyfriend now, and she looks forward to marry him. But oh, how wrong she was. The father of her child reappear in her life once again and seeks redemption. Julia knew that she couldn’t deny him the rights as a father.

Beneath the Night Tree was written in such a wonderful way that I felt really close to the characters, and I actually cried when Julia’s grandmother died. It made me think of my own late grandmother.

Overall, Beneath The Night Tree is a very lovely read, and I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good inspirational family oriented story.

Thumbs up for Beneath The Night Tree and I rate this book 4 out of 5. I would definitely prefer it more if there’s a sequel to this book and I thought improvement ought to be made to the cover to make it look more lively and irresistible.

I received this book free from Tyndale House Publishers. I was not required to give positive reviews. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do I have a child? Julia DeSmit knew she would face the question eventually, but she didn’t expect it now. At twenty-four, she is finally content with the way her life has unfolded. A single mother to her son and young brother, she works at the local grocery store while chipping away at a two-year degree. All her free time is spent with her unorthodox family—her boys, her grandmother, and her boyfriend of five years. It’s not perfect, but Julia is happier than ever.

So when she receives the cryptic e-mail from her son’s father, Julia’s world is turned upside down. She hasn’t heard from Parker since he left her in a college parking lot nearly six years ago. But one look at her son—the spitting image of his father—is enough to convince her that, for better or worse, Parker is a part of their story. Faced with this new reality and an unexpected tragedy, Julia begins a tightrope walk between what was and what is, what she hopes for and what will be.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nicole Baart was born and raised in a small town in Iowa, where she and husband now live with their three young sons. After the adoption of their second son, Nicole discovered a deep passion for global issues and is a founding member of a nonprofit organization that works with a church and orphanage in Liberia.

Nicole is the critically acclaimed author of three novels. After the Leaves Fall was published in 2007 and was followed by a sequel, Summer Snow, which was a Christy Award finalist. That was followed by The Moment Between, Nicole’s first stand-alone novel.

Visit her Web site at www.nicolebaart.com.

ISBN: 978-1-4143-2323-7
Release: February 2011

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Izzy’s Popstar Plan

Izzy’s Popstar Plan by Alex Marestaing is a daily devotional book targeted on teenage girls. Ever since she was six, Izzy has dreamed of becoming the world’s next singing sensation.(Sounds familiar? A little bit like Lizzie McGuire)

Now Izzy is sixteen and  her singing career is on the rise, and she’s been selected to compete on the hit TV show International Popstar Challenge. As Izzy performs in far off locations such as Tokyo and Paris, it seems as if her plans are coming off without a hitch. But God has plans of His own, and Izzy will soon discover that living for Him is “way cooler” than megastar fame.

The book is presented like a daily blog and set up like a devotional. It read like a novel.This book should be an instant hit with tween girls. This cutting edge new product will meet girls where they are, and girls will love following Izzy on her incredible adventure. Plus, they’ll get daily spiritual food to equip them on their own incredible adventure with God.

Personally, I find that Izzy popstar plan is too girlish for me. I’d probably appreciate it more if I was a young teenager. It is an okay book… with a message where you should live for the glory of God is emphasized constantly throughout the entire ‘novel’.

I’d highly recommend this book as a gift to teenage girls age 12 and above. I rate this book 4 out of 5. I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

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An Amish Christmas

Need a book to get yourself in the warm mood of Christmas? Well, an Amish Christmas, expanded edition by Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Long, and Barbara Cameron is the book for it. Warmth, love and Christmas is guaranteed in this collection of Amish story book.

Christmas have been way too commercialized in this era. It’s all about presents and toys that most of us tend to forget what the real Christmas is all about. The book contain four mini novellas that tells the story of four different women.

The first novella is “A Choice to Forgive” by Beth Wiseman. It tells the story of Lydia, who is offered a chance with her first love again after many years. But has too much time passed and can she ever forgive him for ever leaving her?

The second novella is “A Miracle for Miriam” by Kathleen Fuller. Miriam was an awkward child and was teased and had her feelings hurt as a young girl, there are resentment in her. Can she learn to to forgive and forget?
The third novella by Barbara Cameron entitled “One Child.” Sarah and David are childless and the pain that results from this is so strong. So, why on this snowy Christmas night is a couple brought to their door needing a place to stay and also ready to birth their first child?

The fourth novella in the book is “Christmas Cradles” written by Kelly Long, and it tells the story of Anna who travels a couple of hours to fill in for the local midwife so she can spend time with the family. Soon after falling asleep Anna is woken to travel to a home to help with the delivery of a baby. This is only the beginning of births for this late evening and early morning on Second Christmas for Anna and her faithful driver Asa.

I like this book very much. Very delightful and relaxingly read though I find that the stories moved in too fast and does not have a leisurely pace to it. I rate this book 4 stars out of 5, and I think this book makes a perfect Christmas present for those who loves to read.

I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Beth Wiseman, Kathleen Fuller, Kelly Long, and Barbara Cameron

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