Showing posts with label avon books. Show all posts
Showing posts with label avon books. Show all posts

Monday, September 25, 2023

BookTok: Knock Out


* Book 3 in the Hell's Belles series *

If you don't know this about me, I'm a HUGE fan of Sarah's and I will read anything she writes.
I loved this book!

 

@yabooknerdlibrarian Hell’s Belles series - one of my favorites for the friendship, the romance, the banter, the network of women, and the explosions!!!! #hellsbelles #tommygoboom #sarahmaclean #romance #booktok ♬ original sound - Jennifer @YA Book Nerd 📚📚📚

Thursday, September 7, 2023

BookTok: The Blonde Identity


I love Ally Carter's books, so I was thrilled to hear about her adult book.

I grabbed it as soon as it came in at the library and devoured it. It everything I wanted it to be! 

 

@yabooknerdlibrarian 5 Things: I LOVED Ally Carter’s new book for adults! So amazing! All the stars 🤩🤩🤩 #spies #booktok #5things #spybook #avonbooks ♬ original sound - Jennifer @YA Book Nerd 📚📚📚

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Bookstagram: Enchanted to Meet You



Meg Cabot (one of favorite authors ever) has a new book coming out in early September.

Jessica Gold, a plus size heroine, dabbles in magic. But ever since a love spell went too far when she was in high school, she's much more careful about magic. She mostly uses her magic to help others feel good about themselves - particularly in the clothing they buy from her shop. 

No one is more surprised than her when a stranger rides into town claiming she's the Chosen One. 
Only with her help will the town be saved from disaster.

No pressure.

And Jessica's high school nemesis (also a witch) is trying to kill her.

Just another fall in West Harbor....

Mood Board:


It's a witchy, cozy, sexy read - just the kind of book you would expect from Meg Cabot. 
It's an adult book, but there are two fantastic teenage characters.

It's the start of a new series.
It's funny - witty banter. Great friendship. High school nemesis. Mean Girls. Witchy Powers.  It's charming. It's perfection. 

* ARC sent for review

Monday, February 13, 2023

5 Things (5): The Backup Plan

 


I adore Jill Shalvis's books. I read this one on my day off and it was fantastic.

Just a few reasons why it made me happy:




Friday, November 4, 2022

Sunday, August 28, 2022

Bookstagram (10) The Emma Project

 


The Emma Project was an enjoyable read -a great re-telling of Emma in the modern day, and then end of a four-book series.  

Here's a post I made about it:


Friday, May 1, 2020

Romance Review: Prince of Broadway

The Prince of Broadway (Uptown Girls, #2)* Book 2 in the Uptown Girls trilogy *
Florence is the rebel of the family, being the middle daughter, she's used to goin after what she wants. She knows what she doesn't want. She doesn't want a husband like her older sister's almost fiancée. She doesn't want to get married.

What she wants is to open a casino - for ladies. But first she needs a teacher. So she sneaks out to an exclusive club, where women aren't allowed. She wins both times she goes. But then the owner requests a meeting.

Finally she can make her pitch. She desired him to show her all he knows about running a casino. At first Clay's not interested. But then he realizes that it could be just another way to enact his revenge on her father.
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. Usually the historical romances I read are in Regency England, but this series is set in New York City during the Gilded Age. I find it refreshing - plus I get to learn a little bit more about that era. I really love these sisters. They support each other, make each other better, and lean on each other. I loved the Florence wasn't interested in marriage. She didn't enjoy high society and all the dinners, balls, and parties. I loved her relationship with her grandmother. I loved her banter with Clay. I enjoyed Clay and Jack's story. I'm so looking forward to the next book about Justine's story!

Cover Thoughts: Gorgeous
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for your public library.

If you like books about casino, then try this series next:
A Rogue by Any Other Name (The Rules of Scoundrels, #1)

If you want more about the Gilded Age in New York, try this series next:
Duchess by Design (The Gilded Age Girls Club, #1)

Thursday, April 2, 2020

Reivew: My Fake Rake

My Fake Rake (Union of the Rakes, #1)* First Book in a New Series *
Lady Grace hasn't desired to part of social scene after her debut season didn't go well years ago. Now she's happy studying herpetology and being known as a bluestocking. After her father urges her to marry for security, she can't help but wish fellow scientist would notice her. He seems happy talking to her as a collogue, but not as a woman.

When she shares her concern with a friend, he has a suggestion. Lady Grace needs to have another man interested in her. Sebastian allows her to transform him into a rake, helps him change his demeanor, and flirts with him in public. As they pretend to be interested in each other, Grace can't help but see her friend in a new light.
My Thoughts: I loved this book and can't wait to more in this series. I loved the Rake lessons, I think they are the new Princess lessons. I loved Sebastian. I loved Lady Grace and how she refused to hide her intelligence and her interest of reptiles in the ballroom. I loved the easy way they conversed about all things. I loved Sebastian's friends. This is my first book by Eva Leigh, but it won't be my last.

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your public libraries!

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Review: Brazen and the Beast


Brazen and the Beast (The Bareknuckle Bastards, #2)
* Book 2 in the Bareknuckle Bastard series *
Lady Henrietta Sedley has plans - BIG plans. This is the year of Hattie and she's ready to accomplish all the things on her first. She wants her father to stop thinking about her as a woman and more as an heir. It's clear her brother can't handle the shipping business. She has the skills and the abilities. But first she needs to make sure that marriage is off the table - which leads her to Covent Gardens.

Unfortunately, her brother left and unconscious man in the carriage. And when he wakes, he and Hattie have words. From that moment, everything she's planned for becomes derailed. However, Whit might be willing to help her...for a price.
My Thoughts: Of course I loved this book. It might be my new favorite of Sarah's books, but then again, I typically think that. I love this family and I'm dying to see how the next one plays out.

I loved Hattie - for her brains, her determination, her curves, her dreams, and her big heart. I loved her friendship with Nora. I love Nora's driving of the carriages. I loved seeing characters from other stories pop up and to check in one them. I loved learning more about Whit. And of course the banter between Whit and Hattie was amazing. 

I love how Hattie saw her future and reached out to take it. She had a plan. She believed in herself. And she wasn't about to let anyone, not even the most handsomest man of her acquaintance stop her. I loved the idea of the Year of Hattie. It was inspiring! Another wonderful feminist romance from Sarah MacLean that devoured.

Cover Thoughts: Amazing
Source: BEA ARC

Library Recommendation: Sarah MacLean is a Must Have Author for your library's romance collection.

Saturday, June 8, 2019

BEA Special Moments: favorite authors

After running late and missing the train on Wednesday, Amanda and I made a beeline for the DC Ink booth. We were able to get to BEA just in time for the last two books in Meg Cabot's Black Canary signing.

Of course Meg Cabot was her charming self. We've met several times before, so we hugged, we took a picture, and she mentioned there might be mail waiting for me when I got home.

Of course I fan girled all over her - but I think she's used to that. It seems to happen every time I see her. I just can't help myself. I love her!

Also I'm halfway through Black Canary and it's SO Good!

photo credit: Amanda Brouwer

Here's the mail that was waiting for me. Emma that the puppy on the cover looked a little bit like her. She's interested in learning more about this book!

On Friday, I missed the tickets for the Sarah MacLean signing line. I was bummed. But she usually tours near my area, so I was going to just wait until then. 

However, I was walking past the tables and noticed a Stand-By Line. So I hopped in that, hopeful that I might get a signed book.

Which I did and of course I can't wait to read.

But what I didn't expect was the extra gift. Sarah's first book, which I loved, The Season, is now out of print. It's coming back into print in a mass market paperback with a brand new cover. But somewhere along our many meetings I had mentioned that this was the only book of hers that I did not have signed.

And she brought me a copy! And the signing is super sweet. I'm not going to lie - it made me tear up. Now I have to re-read this book and I can't wait!


Here are my two special books. 

These moments made my day. They are two amazing authors who are both so sweet and kind. 

Sunday, December 9, 2018

Review: Duchess By Design


Duchess by Design (The Gilded Age Girls Club, #1)

* First in a new series *
Adeline wants her designs to be taken seriously, but her boss isn't interested in giving ladies of ton dresses with pockets. She wants Adeline to fall in line and follow the rules. When Adeline's making a house call to a client, she runs into a Duke - literally.

The Duke of Kingston traveled to New York to find himself a duchess to restore the coffers of his family estate. Instead, he falls for Adeline and her sassy ways.

But he causes her more trouble than he realizes. Can he find a way for them to be together?
My Thoughts: I loved Maya Rodale's Keeping up with the Cavendishes series, so I was eager to read her newest book. And I really love this Gilded Age novel. I loved the New York setting. I loved learning more about dresses, fashion, and dress shops. Of course I love the idea of pockets in dresses - who doesn't want pockets in their dress. I wish this fashion trend had caught on! I loved the banter between Adeline and the Duke. I loved the women supporting Adeline and how they changed the world in their own way.  I love how the romance happened on her terms. What a fantastic feminist romance! I can't wait to read more of this series. 

Cover Thoughts: I love the dress
Source: ARC sent for review
Library Recommendation: A great start to a new series - grab this one for your romance collection.

Saturday, December 8, 2018

Review: Kill the Queen


Kill the Queen (Crown of Shards, #1)

* First in a new series *

Lady Everleigh learned the hard way never to trust anyone royal. She's been living in the palace ever since her parents died. While everyone has some form a magic, Lady Everleigh's hidden her secret immunity to magic - which helps her escape the palace.

Afterwards, she's forced to hide; she goes to the gladiator troupe that's been making headlines. The woman who leads it is a former palace guard. There she lies low until she can plot her next move.

But the Queen's leading the country towards unnecessary war and Lady Everleigh is the only person who might have a chance at stopping her - if she reveals her true identity
My Thoughts: I adored this book, I didn't want it to end. I loved Jennifer Estep's YA series Mythos Academy. When I saw this cover, I knew I had to read it. And it was just as amazing as I suspected. I loved the characters - both fierce and vulnerable. I loved the banter between them. I loved watching the friendships grow. I loved Lady Everleigh finding her footing and her place. But I also love how she stepped up when she was needed. I can't wait to read the next installment of this series!

Cover Thoughts: Loved it - it's perfect and magical!
Source: Book sent for review
Library Recommendation: Grab this for your adult fantasy collection 


Friday, November 23, 2018

Holiday Book Review: Hot Winter Nights

* Book 6 in the Heartbreaker Bay series *



Hot Winter Nights (Heartbreaker Bay, #6)


Molly's been the office manager for Hunt Investigations, but she wants to handle her own investigations. Archer believes she isn't ready, but she's not giving up. When neighbors bring her a case involving bad Santa, she's reluctant to say no.

Archer places Lucas on the case with her - unbeknownst to her. Lucas is still recovering from a gunshot wound. He's barely been cleared by the doctor for returning to work.

The more time he spends with Molly, the more he has to remind himself that as Joe's sister, she's off limits. But she's gotten under his skin. And he can't help admire her inner strength and determination.
My Thoughts: I really love Jill Shalvis for so many reasons. It's become a requirement to have a Christmas romance from her every year. I adore this series for the group of friends and how we learn more about everyone. I loved learning more about Molly. I loved Molly's inner strength and how she refused to back down. I love her big heart and how she wanted to help everyone. I loved that she took care of herself but also pushed her limits. I loved the banter between her and Lucas. I loved Lucas's family and the contrast between his family and hers. Another great novel from Jill Shalvis.

Cover Thoughts: I adore the background
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Jill Shalvis is an auto buy author. 

Sunday, November 4, 2018

Giveaway: Polaris Rising

Polaris Rising

 A space princess on the run and a notorious outlaw soldier become unlikely allies in this imaginative, sexy space opera adventure—the first in an exciting science fiction trilogy.
In the far distant future, the universe is officially ruled by the Royal Consortium, but the High Councillors, the heads of the three High Houses, wield the true power. As the fifth of six children, Ada von Hasenberg has no authority; her only value to her High House is as a pawn in a political marriage. When her father arranges for her to wed a noble from House Rockhurst, a man she neither wants nor loves, Ada seizes control of her own destiny. The spirited princess flees before the betrothal ceremony and disappears among the stars.

Ada eluded her father’s forces for two years, but now her luck has run out. To ensure she cannot escape again, the fiery princess is thrown into a prison cell with Marcus Loch. Known as the Devil of Fornax Zero, Loch is rumored to have killed his entire chain of command during the Fornax Rebellion, and the Consortium wants his head.

When the ship returning them to Earth is attacked by a battle cruiser from rival House Rockhurst, Ada realizes that if her jilted fiancé captures her, she’ll become a political prisoner and a liability to her House. Her only hope is to strike a deal with the dangerous fugitive: a fortune if he helps her escape.

But when you make a deal with an irresistibly attractive Devil, you may lose more than you bargained for . . .


Sounds great right? It comes out February 2019 but 1 winner will win an ARC from the blog and Avon Addicts!

US Only please!

Monday, September 17, 2018

Romance Review: A Duke by Default

A Duke by Default (Reluctant Royals, #2)
* Book 2 in the Reluctant Royals series *

Portia's hit rock bottom - she knows that she's got to pull herself together. So she creates a list of new rules - no drinking and no men. She also accepts an internship in Scotland. Of course her parents think it's just another scheme, but she's excited about the possibilities. Even after she meets her boss - the sexy grouchy sword maker who doesn't want her around. She's not about to let him stop new Portia from rocking her internship - especially when she discovers information that could change his life.
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. I loved how Portia started paying attention to herself and her needs - even as she got sucked into more drama. I liked how started to understand the chemistry of her brain and used tips to help her. I love how she empathized and supported people. I admired how she took over her internship - even when Tav was being a jerk. I like how he came around and realized he as being a jerk. I also loved his interaction with kids and how he supported the community and gave back. I loved learning about swords. I enjoyed watching Tav attempt to navigate through society and learn all the rules. A great slow burn romance that leaves me waiting for the next book!

Cover Thoughts: Adore it
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A must have for public library romance collections

Thursday, July 12, 2018

Romance Review: Wicked and the Wallflower

Wicked and the Wallflower (The Bareknuckle Bastards, #1) * 1st in a new series *
Felicity Faircloth used to have friends but one too many misunderstandings (Sandals) and they've dropped her. She'd give anything to be on the inside again. When she makes a terrible blunder, sharing with her former friends, that she's captured the hand of a Duke, she knows she won't be able to recover from it.

What she doesn't know is that her family's put all their hopes into her marrying well. And they can't believe that everything is about to be destroyed. But from the darkness, one voice tells Felicity that he can deliver the Duke to her - if she would like.

She agrees and he's somewhat disappointed. In order for his plan to work, he will have to ruin her. The more time he spends with her, the more he starts to care for her. And the more he wishes things could be different.

My Thoughts: I adored this book. I loved Felicity - from her awkward moments in society to her lock picking skills to her big heart. I love the banter between her and Devil. I love how she was always doing the unexpected thing as far as he was concerned. I loved their moments together in his world. I like learning more about Covent Garden and how the brothers and sister rose above everything to become the leaders. I felt terrible for Devil and his siblings for their upbringing. I adored Grace - I can't wait to read more about her. I'm a sucker for anything Sarah MacLean writes.

Cover Thoughts: What could be better than a lady in a pink dress?
Source: BEA book / Avon Addict Book
Library Recommendation: Sarah MacLean is always a must have for public library romance collections. 

Monday, July 2, 2018

Review: Wilde in Love

Wilde in Love (The Wildes of Lindow Castle, #1)* first book in new trilogy *
Lord Alaric Wilde hasn't been home in years, but he detailed his adventures into books. He has no ideas these books have made him famous - or that there's a play out about him. When the ship docks, he has no idea that all the ladies waiting for the ship are there to see him.

He escapes to his family's home - where there's a large party happening. There he meets a Miss Willa Ffynche. He's taken with her but she's not so sure about him. She isn't impressed with his fame and isn't interested in being in the spotlight.

But the more time Lord Alaric spends with her, the more he realizes she's perfect for him. If only he could convince her of the fact...
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this one - I loved Alaric discovering the play and his reaction to it. I loved his interactions with Willa - particularly their banter. I love how she wasn't interested in his public person, but his true self. I enjoyed their discussion about his adventures. I loved Willa and Lavinia's friendship - how they rule the Season, how they meant to rule the season, and how they were their true selves around each other. I'm so looking forward to the next book in the series.

Cover Thoughts: How very Mr. Darcy
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your public library romance sections.

Sunday, July 1, 2018

Contest: The Rogue

The Rogue (Devil's Duke, #1; Falcon Club, #4)

I have an extra copy to gift - thanks to Avon.

Lady Constance Read is independent, beautiful, and in need of a husband—now. The last man on earth she wants is the rogue who broke her heart six years ago, never mind that his kisses are scorching hot…

Evan Saint-André Sterling is rich, scarred, and finished with women—forever. He’s not about to lose his head over the bewitching beauty who once turned his life upside down.

But Constance needs a warrior, and Saint is the perfect man for the job. Only as a married woman can she penetrate Scotland’s most notorious secret society and bring a diabolical duke to justice. When Constance and Saint become allies—and passionate lovers—he’ll risk everything to protect the only woman he has ever loved. ~ Summary from Publisher.

If you think that sounds good, please enter to win a paperback copy plus some swag items.
US only please!

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Romance Review: My Fair Duchess

My Fair Duchess (Dukes Behaving Badly, #5)
In an unprecedented move, Genevieve inherited a dukedom - becoming a duchess. However, she's never been taught how to manage anything properly. She writes to her godmother begging for advice. Her godmother sends alone her steward.

Archibald Salisbury must turn Lady Genevieve into a proper duchess - and he has a lot of work ahead of him. He only wishes he could get her out of his head. For a proper lady can't have a man like him - estranged from his family as he is.

Duchess lessons have never been so fun.
My Thoughts: A really fun feminist romance. I love that Genevieve inherited a dukedom. And that she wanted/needed knowledge of how to make it successful. I loved her grandmother and their relationship. I adored the letters Genevieve and Archie wrote to each other, especially the crossed out thoughts. Their banter was fun and made me chuckle several times. The best romance books have a smart funny heroine - if you like that too, read this one!

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Grab this one for your romance section



Friday, April 20, 2018

Romance Review: If I Should Ever Love You

* First in a new series * 
If Ever I Should Love You (Spinster Heiresses, #1)
Leonie isn't interested in marriage - not since the night she eloped and her almost husband raped her. She killed him in self defense, but the damage was done. Luckily another suitor saved her. What she didn't know was that it cost him - dearly. Now he's the Earl of Rochdale in need of a wealthy wife. Her father just agreed to her marriage. In order to make it through the ceremony, Leonie has a nip (or more) of brandy. The Earl is furious - he doesn't want a wife who can't control herself around alcohol. Leonie isn't sure what to expect from the marriage, but there are times when the Earl is sweet and tender and times when he's furious. Do they have a shot at a happier marriage than her parents?
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this novel - minus the two rape plot points (one before the book opens and one during the book). I'm just not interested in reading about rape (obviously I know it happens). But what I did really enjoy about this book was the heroine's dependence on alcohol. I haven't seen it in many books. I liked how they worked on the house together and how Leonie grew to imagine it's potential. 

Cover Thoughts: Charming
Source: ARC sent for review