Hi All

I have had a great ‘reading’ start to the New Year. Already I have finished 3 books and I am way onto my 4th! There is something so relaxing about slipping into another world, or meeting new characters. I find myself looking in like a spectator and cheer on the heroines or ‘rage’ at the ‘bad guys’.

I love taking part in book tours, but I have taken a break away from those a little whilst I go over some of the MANY books that I have in my TBR list. 

One of the first I chose was ‘The Fault in our Stars’ by John Green.

This was a book I had wanted to read for quite a while. I had shuffled it around in my ‘TBR list’ for sometime, but I had spoiled it a little by watching the film first, something I don’t generally do….So I picked this up and within a few days I had finished it. All I was left able to say was WOW; What a fantastic read! I had tear stained cheeks and I found my heart racing.

Here is a little about the author before I leave my review.

About the Author

John Green’s first novel, Looking for Alaska, won the 2006 Michael L. Printz Award presented by the American Library Association.

His second novel, An Abundance of Katherines, was a 2007 Michael L. Printz Award Honor Book and a finalist for the Los Angeles Times Book Prize.

His next novel, Paper Towns, is a New York Times bestseller and won the Edgar Allen Poe Award for Best YA Mystery.

In January 2012, his most recent novel, The Fault in Our Stars, was met with wide critical acclaim, unprecedented in Green’s career. The praise included rave reviews in Time Magazine and The New York Times, on NPR, and from award-winning author Markus Zusak. The book also topped the New York Times Children’s Paperback Bestseller list for several weeks. Green has also co-authored a book with David Levithan called Will Grayson, Will Grayson, published in 2010. The film rights for all his books, with the exception of Will Grayson Will Grayson, have been optioned to major Hollywood Studios.

In 2007, John and his brother Hank were the hosts of a popular internet blog, “Brotherhood 2.0,” where they discussed their lives, books and current events every day for a year except for weekends and holidays. They still keep a video blog, now called “The Vlog Brothers,” which can be found on the Nerdfighters website.

Website: –  www.johngreenbooks.com

About the Book

Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.

Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars is award-winning author John Green’s most ambitious and heartbreaking work yet, brilliantly exploring the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love

My Review

I knew I would love this book way before I turned to the first page. I had already watched the film so already knew what to expect. And yet what I got was a gorgeous, charming, heartbreaking story that pulled me in deep from the very first paragraph! I loved Hazel’s strong will; I loved Gus’ charming personality and I felt the connection that both of these characters had. The dialogue is strong and easy to follow; it flows easily from each character and I found myself falling deeper into their world; eager to see how their story would pan out.

I love John Greens work, having read ‘Turtles all the way down’ a few months back! He has such a wonderful way in which he writes, a great flow that helps the reader to be drawn deeper into the story. I loved the character interactions within this book and believed each connection and felt each feeling that was described.

We have Hazel and Gus; two young people who have lived within ‘Cancers grasp’ and yet they see a way to find light and love around each other. The story is heart-breaking to read at times, but it is also funny, charismatic and heart-warming. I enjoyed reading their story and despite the very real, very relatable subject, I came away feeling in awe of people who go through this pain/illness in real life. The words that John wrote painted a very realistic picture. The two characters lit one another up, creating very likeable people who I ‘shipped’ from the start.

I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who hasn’t tried it yet already!

Conclusion

This was a fantastic read; I loved the character interactions and the very real, heartbreaking subject that revolved around Hazel and Gus’s worlds. 

This is a definate 5 Star Book! Please, if you haven’t already, give this book a go! But, please be warned….tissues are needed. 😀

S x

Books Books Books!

I am currently in between Blog Tours, so I have plunged into the pile of books that I have wanted to read for a while now. 

I ventured to my local 2nd hand shop (Thrift store) and purchased 6 books for £1! Thats right! I paid just £1 for all 6 of these books…I couldn’t believe it when she told me how much they were…..I was that shocked that I handed extra money over to go towards the charity.

Two thoughts went through my mind…..

1 – Damn, that was cheap…

2 – I wish I had picked up more books…

I love a new book and love reading a new story, which is why I enjoy blogging so much. It helps me to connect with so many fabulous authors…I love reading new stories, meeting new characters and feeling all the emotions that only books can conjure.

The first selected book from the pile was this beauty:

Those who are regulars to my blog will know that I reviewed John Green’s Book, Turtles all the way Down last year and I really really enjoyed it. I have wanted to read ‘The Fault in our Stars.’ for some time now and will admit that I have watched the film first, which isn’t generally something that I do. I much prefer to fall in love with the characters in the book before having it tainted by the characters I see on screen.

I am very excited to get started with this book and I will leaving my review right here for you all as soon as it is done. 🙂

Hope you are all having a fab evening.

Chow for Now
S x

#Blogtour

Hi All

I have a confession to make, I created this blog post and scheduled it for the #blogtour slot which was dated for the 9th December. But, with illness, family drama and Christmas/New Year festivities, I completely forgot to check back in to make sure that it had posted. Unfortunately it didn’t, in fact I couldn’t find any trace of it, so I am figuring I didn’t save it properly at the time. 😦

This is a big apology to the Blogtour host, Rachel and the author, Rosemary for the delay in sharing this review. I am so very sorry for not posting this sooner. But here it is in all of its glory….better late than never right? 😉 

As always I need to thank the Blogtour host, Rachel (www.rachelsrandomresources.com)and the author, Rosemary Noble for allowing me the honour of a copy of this book. It was a really charming little number and one that I read through fairly quickly. It was an enjoyable read. 

This is Book 3 in The Currency Girls Series but can easily be read as a standalone story.

Before I tell you more about this book and give you my views on it, lets see a little bit about the author. 

About the Author

I worked as a librarian, mostly with young people, so books have been my life, ever since I first stepped into a library and found a magical treasure trove. My other love is social history. Retirement gave me the opportunity to travel to Australia where I discovered stories that deserved to be written. I found a new career as an author which gives me immense pleasure. I write for myself but am delighted that others enjoy my books.

Social Media Links –

https://twitter.com/chirosie
rosemarynoble.wordpress.com
https://www.facebook.com/RosemaryJaneNoble/

About the Book

An astonishing tale, spanning continents, where truth is stranger than fiction. This historical saga of an extraordinary Australian pioneer family continues into a new generation.

Sadie is brought-up amongst the vineyards of the Yarra Valley while her work-obsessed father reaps riches from the boom years before the Great War.

With post-war depression looming, Sadie’s only option is to flee from her disastrous marriage, seeking refuge in Cleethorpes, a small seaside town in northern England.

Years later, when her sons are in RAF Bomber Command, she receives a letter from her long-lost brother which forces her to confront the past and her part in her family’s downfall.

Can old wounds be healed?
Will she find new love?
Will this second war destroy everyone she saved?

My Review

This story was very easy to get into; I did struggle to figure out who each of the characters were at first, having not read the first books in this series, but it didn’t take long to get into it. This book does very well as a standalone novel, but I enjoyed reading it so much that I will definately be looking at purchasing the previous books. The shifting between timelines and the historical touches between the two World Wars helps to create a very warming, yet thrilling story.

Despite the various battles she is struggling through, Sadie; the main character, continues to move forward daily; she continues to get through each day despite her fears and trepidation. There were some tear-jerking moments too; I really feel that I am connected to a book when it brings me to tears. It says a lot about the writing and character of the story if it can compel you to feel emotions from just the words that are written. And Rosemary, the author, has a lovely writing style. It is easy to read and flows in a way that makes it enjoyable.

I got to the end of the book and was amazed to find that this was based on true life, which made the story even more special. For those who are looking for a book with character and charm, look no further. This saga, which spans both Australia and England is a real gem of a story and you won’t be disappointed when you start to read it.

Conclusion

Rosemary Noble has done brilliantly in creating this story. Her research skills and writing style have helped to create a very enjoyable reading experience. The character interaction and the depth in which they were written created people who were both believable and likeable. I would 100% recommend this book to anyone who likes a story with heart.

Rating – 4 out of 5 

If you liked what I wrote and would like to hear more, please check out the reviews from the fellow bloggers on this tour.

Thanks for reading.

S x

#BlogTour – Monday 3rd December

Hi All, Another Blogtour, another day! I am seriously loving all of the books I have been invited to read, but this one blew my mind. It was intense and exciting from the first word! I was honoured to be asked to read it and to include it on my blog. 

Thanks as always must go to the fantastic Blogtour host, Rachel (https://www.rachelsrandomresources.com) for inviting me along. As mentioned in the past, I have always been a sucker for a good front cover and this pulled me in instantly by the way it looked. Thanks also must go to the author, Paul Ian Cross (http://www.pauliancross.com) who brought this amazingly inventive story to life. 

When I read this book, I came away with one word on my lips….’wow’

The story was a thrilling, science-fiction rollercoaster ride that had you plunging deep into the essence of the book with each word. I was in awe of how well the story flowed and the fact that the story centres around time-travel had me hooked…..I have come away wanting more….

But…before I give you more on this book; lets see a little bit from the author. 

About the Author

Paul Ian Cross is a multi-award-winning children’s author and scientist from London, UK.

Paul works in clinical research (developing new medicines) and he’s also involved in science communication; presenting science to non-scientists. He enjoys his science career but he also has a real passion for writing stories! He likes introducing children to the wonders of science, especially reluctant readers. By introducing science creatively, he aims to spark their interest; allowing them to gain confidence with their reading. As a previous reluctant reader himself, he understands how hard it can be. But it’s all about making reading fun and interesting!

Paul’s nephew Hayden influenced his decision to become a writer. He loved seeing Hayden’s reaction when his sister Michelle first read one of Paul’s stories to him!

In his spare time, Paul likes to visit new and exciting places. One of his favourite places is Scotland, especially the Isle of Skye.

Paul’s debut picture book, Praxx and the Ringing Robot, won second prize in the ‘Picture Books 5 and Younger’ category at the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards 2017. The book trailer also won first place in the ‘book trailer’ category at the Royal Dragonfly Book Awards later that year.

Paul’s second book, Planet Scrabbage and the Vegerons, won an honourable mention in both the ‘Picture Books 6 and Over’ and ‘Health’ categories at the Purple Dragonfly Book Awards 2018.

And that brings us to now… Paul is currently working on several new books. Paul’s debut upper middle grade novel will be published in 2018. The Lights of Time is the first novel in a brand-new series: The Chronicles of Engella Rhys.

Paul hopes you enjoy reading his stories as much as he enjoyed writing them!

http://www.pauliancross.com/
https://www.facebook.com/pauliancrossauthor
https://www.instagram.com/pauliancross.author/
https://www.pinterest.co.uk/pauliancross/
https://www.youtube.com/pauliancrossauthor
https://twitter.com/tyrannopaulus

About the Book

Engella Rhys is alone, adrift and on the run. Pursued by a secret agency, known only as the Hunters, she must stay ahead to stay alive.

As she travels through space-time using dangerously experimental technology, she only has one wish: to be reunited with her lost parents. After a close shave with a Hunter on the streets of New Shanghai, Engella escapes to find herself on a deserted beach. When she meets a kind stranger, who offers her food and shelter, Engella feels safe and protected for the first time in years.

But who is this woman? And why did their paths cross at the most convenient of times?

Engella soon discovers their lives are intertwined in more ways than she could ever imagine.

Purchase Link

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lights-Time-Chronicles-Engella-Rhys-ebook/dp/B07KCZ3GGG
https://www.amazon.com/Lights-Time-Chronicles-Engella-Rhys-ebook/dp/B07KCZ3GGG

My Review

I will reiterate what I said previously….WOW! This book was absolutely fantastic from  beginning to end. I was completely pulled into the world of Engella; I loved the time travel elements finding myself captivated as I delved deeper and deeper into the book and despite the various jumps through time, the book never became confusing and I was able to follow the story easily.  I had so much fun reading this story and found it very difficult to put it down.

Engella is such a likeable character, I saw how determined she was and felt the emotions as she aimed towards her main goal. I felt her fear of the Hunters and read with a racing heart as she avoided capture. I was happy with how the story panned out, but not happy that it was over. I am so glad that this isn’t the end of this story and that there is more to come. I cannot wait to read more about Engella and see where she goes from here. I loved the interaction between the other characters and the dialogue flowed easily. This was a true page-turner and a book that kept you guessing….definately one to add to the TBR list. 

Conclusion

Fantastic! Amazing! Brilliant! A book that held me captive from page 1! GIve this book a go! You will not be disappointed! I look forward to seeing more from Paul Ian Cross.

Rating – A Big Well Deserved 5 out of 5 stars for me!! Fantastic! I think this book may be on my list of books to read again… 🙂

If you would like to read more reviews from this tour, please check out the bloggers named below.

Thanks All
S x

Blogtour – Wednesday 28th November

Hi All

I have been mega busy behind the scenes reading book after book, enjoying myself and disappearing into different worlds; falling in love and finding happy ever afters. The posts on my blog may sometimes be weeks apart but always know that I am working hard to bring you reviews of the books I come across.

Here we have a spectacular, captivating story; set in the beautiful historical England between the 1800’s with a sprinkling off enchanting, post-revolutionary Paris. This book had me gripped from the very first page; the characters were likeable with every word I read.

Big thanks must as always go to the wonderful Blog Tour Host, Rachel (www.rachelsrandomresources.com) who organised this tour with fantastic enthusiasm….and also to the man who wrote this charming novel, Steven Neil (https://twitter.com/stevenneil12)

Before I jump in and excitedly tell you about this book, lets see a little bit about the author who brought this story to life.

The Author

Steven Neil has a BSc in Economics from the London School of Economics, a BA in English Literature and Creative Writing from the Open University and an MA in Creative Writing from Oxford Brookes University. In his working life he has been a bookmaker’s clerk, management tutor, management consultant, bloodstock agent and racehorse breeder. He is married and lives in rural Northamptonshire.

Social Media Links –

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100016617465298 https://twitter.com/stevenneil12

About the Book

A story of love and political intrigue, set against the backdrop of the English
hunting shires and the streets of Victorian London and post-revolutionary Paris.

When Harriet Howard becomes Louis Napoleon’s mistress and financial backer and appears at his side in Paris in 1848, it is as if she has emerged from nowhere. How did the English daughter of a Norfolk boot-maker meet the future Emperor? Who is the mysterious Nicholas Sly and what is his hold over Harriet?

Can Harriet meet her obligations and return to her former life and the man she left behind? What is her involvement with British Government secret services? Can Harriet’s friend, jockey Tom Olliver, help her son Martin solve his own mystery: the identity of his father?

The central character is Harriet Howard and the action takes place between 1836 and 1873. The plot centres on Harriet’s relationships with Louis Napoleon and famous Grand National winning jockey, Jem Mason. The backdrop to the action includes significant characters from the age, including Lord Palmerston, Queen Victoria and the Duke of Grafton, as well as Emperor Napoleon III. The worlds of horse racing, hunting and government provide the scope for rural settings to contrast with the city scenes of London and Paris and for racing skulduggery to vie with political chicanery.

The Merest Loss is historical fiction with a twist. It’s pacy and exciting with captivating characters and a distinctive narrative voice.

My Review

I confess that the world of Horse Racing, especially in a novel isn’t generally a topic that I would think about reading. But the topic blended in brilliantly with the story; I loved the character of Harriet. Yes, she comes across as trapped in her life and love, but there is something very likeable about her and found myself warming to her more and more as I read through the pages; the mystery surrounding her son and who his father was had me gripped from the start and I turned each page greedily.

The pace moved along at a reasonable rate, giving us plenty of description and information but not over-doing so. I found myself getting more and more submerged into this world and I couldn’t wait to see how the story panned out. I walked around my home with the book glued to one hand as I cooked my children’s tea and as I waited for my son to come out of school. The imagery that Neil’s words created was spectacular; helping to create a world that I wanted to be a part of.  I got pretty emotional towards the end of this story as I became quite invested in it; I was not disappointed with how the story concluded. Beautifully written from Page 1!

Steven has a wonderful writing style and I look forward to seeing more of his work in the future.

Conclusion

This story was very likeable – I loved the characters and the interaction that they had. Steven Neil is a wonderful author and I enjoyed reading his work. I look forward to seeing what he has coming up next. 

Rating – 4 out of 5

If you liked my review and would like to see more about this book, why not check out the other bloggers who are included on this tour?

#Blogtour – Sunday 11th November

Hi all, 

Hope all of you beautiful people are well today; thankyou so much for taking the time to read this post, it really does mean a lot. 🙂 – I have been super spoiled with the book that I am about to introduce you to. A follow on from Jasper Barry’s first novel in this series, The Second Footman (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17167018-the-second-footman), this 2nd book was just as enthralling and very ‘difficult-to-put-down’.

The wonderful blog host, Rachel (https://www.rachelsrandomresources.com/) asked me to take part as she knew that I had enjoyed the first book so much. Some might say that the size of the book is off-putting, but I find this even more of an attraction and I couldn’t wait to dive right in. I loved the character interaction between Max and Marquis de Miremont in the first novel, so I was eager to see how there story progressed. 

I know you are all on tender hooks as you wait to read my review, but first let me give you a little bit about the author.

About the Author

Jasper Barry graduated from Cambridge with a degree in English and has worked in
advertising, then in journalism. Jasper lives in London with too many books and three
obstreperous cats.

Social Media Links –

http://jasperbarry.co.uk

https://twitter.com/jasperbarry2?lang=en

https://www.facebook.com/jasper.barry.1

About the Book

Is Max Fabien the loyal secretary and faithful lover of the marquis de Miremont? Or a handsome trickster who regards lying as an accomplishment and any sexual quarry as fair game?

Miremont’s heart tells him one thing, his jealousy another. But his obsessive passion for Max must remain a dark secret. And, when his estranged wife brings their eighteen- year-old daughter to Paris to make her debut, the strain begins to tell.

The once-calm atmosphere of the Hôtel de Miremont swirls with gossip, mistrust and danger and Miremont is faced with an impossible choice.

Meanwhile the secrets of Max’ past continue to haunt him. Has the time has come for him to claim his not-so-rightful destiny?

That Deplorable Boy is the second part the Miremont series, charting the course of a gay love affair between an aristocrat and a former servant in Belle Époque France. Rich in period detail and set in the grand châteaux of Paris and Burgundy, the novels explore the suffocating social codes of the time and the conflicts and perils they bring for those who must live outside them.

Purchase Links:

Amazon UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/That-Deplorable-Boy-Jasper-Barry-ebook/dp/B07BMZ1VPB

Amazon US – https://www.amazon.com/That-Deplorable-Boy-Jasper-Barry-ebook/dp/B07BMZ1VPB

My Review

Its hard to not like this book; the chemistry as always between the two lovers is easy to envision as you read through the pages. Sure, there are a lot of pages to get through, but this helps to create such a beautiful picture and allowed me as a reader to really understand each character and what they were feeling. There were times when I felt that some parts were a little too lengthy, but its not something that I would underrate for; I enjoyed the interaction between Max and Marquis de Miremont as I did with the first book. The difficulties they faced in the first book to be together are still there and I read with interest as the couple inevitably still wound back to one another, despite trying to ‘limit’ there time together, so as not to rouse suspicion from those around them, especially Miremont’s family who unexpectedly come to stay at the Hotel de Miremont.

We find in this novel that Max is still struggling with his own demons, but he realises the strong pull that the Miremont has on him. Whereas Miremont himself has to deal with the ‘green-eyed-monster’ in him, which I read with interest.

This book is charming, both in the way it looks and in the way it is written. I found myself reading hours of my days away, as I read each page greedily, not wanting to put it down and wanting to see how the story concluded. I was not disappointed.

Conclusion

Over 400 pages were read over a week and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book in this series. The writing flowed well and the author did amazing work. I love Max’s character. Sure, he is a little damaged, but he has a good heart….he just needed someone to help open him up…and unwittingly, he found that with Miremont.

Very good story! Well worth a read! I hope this isn’t the last I hear from this engaging couple. 

Rating – 4 out of 5

#Blogtour – Saturday 20th October

Hi all

Welcome back! Today I am so honoured to be bringing you a review of a book that I was sent by the lovely Rachel (RachelsRandomResources). This story was heartbreakingly honest; I felt the pain and grief that was portrayed on the pages and was moved by the awful realisation that life has to go on. The author, Sarahlyn Bruck (www.sarahlynbruck.com) has an amazing way in which she brings this story to life. 

Before I tell you more about this wonderful story, lets hear more about the author.

The Author

Sarahlyn Bruck writes contemporary women’s fiction and lives in Philadelphia with her husband and daughter. She is the author of DESIGNER YOU, published by Crooked Cat Books on August 31, 2018. 

Sarahlyn teaches writing and literature at a local community college and also coaches writers for Author Accelerator.

DESIGNER YOU is Sarahlyn’s debut, and she is hard at work on her next book. Want the latest updates?

Follow along for news, events, and announcements at http://www.sarahlynbruck.com.

You can sign up for her monthly newsletter there, too.

Website: www.sarahlynbruck.com

Social Media Links –

Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/sarahlynbruck/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/@sarahbruck/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/slbruck/
Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5803427-sarahlyn-bruck

About the Book

Pam Wheeler checked every box:
Happy marriage? Check. Fantastic kid? Check. Booming career? Check.

So when her husband dies in a freak accident and their DIY empire goes on life support, Pam must fix the relationship with her troubled and grief-stricken daughter and save the family business.

Pam and Nate were a couple who just couldn’t get away from each other, sharing not only their bed, but also a successful lifestyle empire as DIY home renovators, bloggers, podcasters, and co-authors.

When Nate dies in a freak accident, Pam becomes a 44-year-old widow, at once too young and too old—too young to be thrust into widowhood and too old to rejoin the dating pool.

Now the single mother of a headstrong and grief-stricken teenager, Pam’s life becomes a juggling act between dealing with her loss and learning how to parent by herself. On top of all that she also must reinvent herself or lose the empire that she and Nate had built so carefully.

It is time for Pam to seize the opportunity to step up as a mother, come out from behind Nate’s shadow, and rise as the sole face of the Designer You brand, and maybe, possibly, hopefully, find love again.

Purchase Link – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DH6B38H/

My Review

I loved the subject matter in this book; the honest approach was a breath of fresh air and I adored reading about the characters. The interaction and dialogue was very well written and the overall story was beautifully handled. I have suffered loss in my life and this book spoke to me and I related so easily to all the emotions that were felt by both Pam and daughter. They struggle to survive after Nate’s death; each of them lost in their own grief, just trying to hold on to what they have but feeling lost all at the same time. I can relate to this so much and it was humbling to read a story that spoke to me in that way. I was able to believe in these characters, I was able to feel the emotions that were seeping from them and I read with tears in my eyes as they fought against one another.

The story was well written; the flow was brilliant and helped to create an easy reading experience. I enjoyed the character interactions and loved how immersed I became in the story as I read deeper into the book. Sarahlyn has a real talent for creating believable characters and I was left satisfied as I read the final pages. One thing I would have loved to have read was more romantic interaction between Pam and Charlie, but I understand that this was more than an romance story; this was a story about surviving grief and learning to ‘live’ again after losing your soul mate.

My Conclusion

I really enjoyed reading this story; it was heartfelt and honest with very likeable characters. This was lazy sunday afternoon reading at its best. Go take a look, you won’t be disappointed.

My Rating – 4 out of 5

If you liked my review, why not go check out the reviews of everyone else in this tour.

Thanks All

S x

Hi All

I always love reading books from new authors; someone who really creates an amazing story. And I can tell you, my lovely readers that this book was EPIC! I was approached by author Kellyn Thompson and I was so glad that this was one book/review exchange request that I accepted!

This book truly gripped me from the very first page; from the sci-fi feel, to the romantic interactions between the two characters, this made for a remarkable read!

Before I share my review with you all, then I am going to tell you a little bit more about the author.

The Author

Kellyn Thompson is a science nerd who loves playing out the what-ifs that arise in her mind when she reads the latest scientific publications and studies. Building on that, she started writing short stories, and one of those ideas turned into her debut novel, The Unexpected Inlander. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, hiking, and trying to teach her cats the value of love, empathy, and intact fabric on furniture.

About the Book

Agent Christopher Rockford has been the best assassin in the agency for eight years, and he loves his job. He loves his solitary lifestyle. He loves eliminating criminals. He loves his comfortable life as a member of society’s wealthy coastal upper class.

But in pursuit of a target, he meets Jenna, a mysterious civilian who belongs to society’s lowest and most shunned group. Being around her is fun and intriguing, but it forces him to see things through her eyes—causing him to reconsider the world around them and The Order he so obediently serves. As he falls in love with her, he fears telling her the truth about his profession may cause him to lose her.

But Jenna has her own secrets to keep.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Inlander-Kellyn-Thompson-ebook/dp/My

My Review

This story had a real nice flow to it and I loved the writing style of the author. I felt like I could believe both the story and the characters as I read from page to page. I was intrigued from the first page and soon found out that I didn’t want to put it down until I had read to the last page. I loved the character interaction and the dialogue was easy to read and helped create a very believable story.

I loved the fact that the author played with segregation in the future. It was a subject that didn’t seem completely unbelievable and I read with both horror and fascination at the world that Kellyn created. There was plenty of action, twists and excitement to keep me reading. I enjoyed reading as the romantic connection between Chris and Jenna deepened, some of the scenes were lovely to read but at times I was frustrated with how regimented and compliant Chris was when it came to his job; the deeper I got, the more frustrated I got. I liked to see that he softened in character though as he fell for Jenna more and more. The fact that I got so invested in the story just shows how well this was written and I would 100% recommend you guys to go and use the purchase link above and check it out for yourself. 

Conclusion

This book was enthralling and exciting from the very first page! If a book grabs you from the start then it is generally a winner! Give this a go! I guarantee you will not be disappointed. 

Rating – 4 out of 5 

Thanks for reading all.

S x

Hi All

Another day, another #blogtour post! And if you love your romance novels with a sprinkling of history then look no further! This one was a real page turner.

A big special thanks must go as always to the wonderful Blogtour Host, Rachels Random Resources! She really does have a knack for sharing the most amazing books! And of course, I must thank the author, Jenni Fletcher for sharing her imagination with us.

Rachels Random Resources – https://www.rachelsrandomresources.com/
Jenni Fletcher – https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletcherAuthor/

The Warriors Bride Prize is everything you would wish to find in a Mills and Boon book and the historical settings help create a enjoyable reading experience. But before I tell you more about this book, lets find out a bit more about the author.

About the Author

Jenni Fletcher was born on the north coast of Scotland and now lives in Yorkshire, where she writes Medieval, Roman and Victorian romance novels.

She studied English at Cambridge University before doing an MA on Women and Literature in English and a PhD on Victorian & Edwardian literature at Hull.

After realising that she was better at writing than teaching, she worked in a number of administrative jobs whilst trying to finish her first book, which was rejected.

Thinking there must have been some mistake, she then wrote another, which was fortunately accepted by Harlequin Mills & Boon.

Her favourite Jane Austen novel is Persuasion and her favourite Brontë is Anne. If she had to choose a romantic hero it would be John Thornton, but maybe that’s just because she’s Northern.

Social Media Links –

FB https://www.facebook.com/JenniFletcherAuthor/
Twitter @JenniAuthor

About the Book

Daughter of a slave…wedded to the warrior!

Livia Valeria is furious when she’s ruthlessly gambled away by her intended bridegroom. Luckily, it’s tall, muscled and darkly handsome Roman centurion Marius Varro who wins her as his bride!

Livia must hide her Caledonian roots, but when Marius faces a barbarian rebellion at Hadrian’s Wall she must make a choice: her heritage or the husband she’s falling for…

Purchase Links:
Amazon UK  https://amzn.to/2NWoZSS
Amazon https://amzn.to/2NWoZSS
iBooks  https://apple.co/2udYkZI
WHSmith http://bit.ly/2Nbne3b
B&N http://bit.ly/2ug1pbF

My Review

I won’t lie, I love a good romance novel. I love knowing that ultimately at the end we are going to get the couple together, but I love reading the journey to that point! This book delivered exactly what I wanted from it. I enjoyed reading the romance scenes, loved getting to know the characters and absorbed the dialogue and historical settings easily. The story was well written and had a great flow to it, making it easy to read. It was evident from the first page that this book was going to be a ‘page-turner’ and I wasn’t wrong, as I had it finished within the same day.

I loved the characters, especially the relationship between Livia and Marius. I would have liked to have seen more from the battle that took place at the end but I was very happy with how the story concluded. The writing style was really well put together, helping to create an easy and enjoyable reading experience. I will definately be keeping my eye open for any further work by this author. Jenni has a wonderful way in which she writes, really opening up the imagination and providing the reader with easy to imagine scenes.

Conclusion

This book was a fabulous lazy day read, I loved the character interaction and enjoyed the story from the very first page.  If you are a sucker for romance, then you wont go wrong with this one!

4 out of 5!

Thanks All

S x