Cover Reveal & Preorder! All the Pretty Girls - A Rachel Emery Novel #3

 Cover Reveal & Preorder!

I'm so excited to share the new cover of my next novel,

All The Pretty Girls

A Rachel Emery Novel, Book Three

Cover created by the amazing Deborah Bradseth of

DB Cover Design (Formerly Tugboat Designs).

Book Description:

There’s a serial killer on the loose around Florida State University, or at least that’s what everyone believes. Young women go missing for several days and then are found dead a few miles from where they were abducted. The local police and an FBI task force are working to find the culprit but with no success. Meanwhile, all the women around Tallahassee are afraid they may be next.

When Amber Johnston, Rachel’s daughter’s roommate and best friend, is discovered missing on the first day of spring break, Rachel becomes involved. Unfortunately, her boyfriend, FBI Agent Avery Turley, is in Idaho as part of a task force searching for a different serial killer. So, Rachel turns to Lieutenant Jack Meyers of the Panama Beach City Police Department for help. Together they search for Amber, leading them on the trail for the culprit killing all the pretty girls.

Release date is March 14, 2023. 

You can preorder the book now on:

U.S. Amazon Kindle

Amazon Kindle - UK 

Amazon Kindle - CA

Amazon Kindle - AU

Or the Amazon site you shop at.

The paperback and audiobook will be available on or around the release date.

I'm excited about this new book in the Rachel Emery Series and hope you will be too!

Book Review: The Captain's Woman by Holly Bush

Book Review

 

The Captain’s Woman

(The Thompsons of Locust Street, Book 4)

 Holly Bush

 

Book Description:

Meet the Thompsons of Locust Street, an unconventional family taking Philadelphia high society by storm…

1870 ~ Muireall Thompson has taken her duties seriously since her parents died on the family’s crossing from Scotland to America in 1854. As the eldest sibling, their death made her responsible for her family and left little time for a life of her own. But now her brothers and sisters are adults; even the youngest is nearly ready to face the world on his own. What will she do when she is alone, other than care for an elderly aunt and volunteer at the Sisters of Charity orphanage? Has the chance for a husband and children of her own passed her by?

Widower Anthony Marcus, formerly a captain in the Union Army, is a man scraping the bottom of his dignity and hanging on to his honor by the barest thread. Reduced to doing odd jobs to keep a roof over his dear daughter Ann’s head, he often leaves her with the Sisters of Charity while he is out seeking steady work with a decent salary that will allow him to move from their single-room living quarters.

After an initial meeting that finds Muireall and Anthony at odds, a tentative friendship forms as they bond over their mutual affection for Ann. As friendship leads to passion, can a wealthy spinster and a poor soldier overcome their differences in station to forge a future together? Just as Muireall finds the courage to reach for her own happiness, Anthony’s past rises up between them and an old enemy reemerges to bring the Thompson family down once and for all. Will the divide between them be insurmountable, or can they put aside pride and doubt for a love worth fighting for?

 

Release Date: January 10, 2023

Preorder on Amazon

 

My 5-Star Review:

Muireall Thompson has always put her family first and never thought of herself throughout the years. Each of her siblings have found love and marriage, but she felt it would never happen to her. Instead, she put her energy into the family’s business and her volunteer work at the orphanage. But when she collides with Anthony Marcus, a former captain in the Union Army, she thinks that maybe she might find her chance at love.

The Captain’s Woman by Holly Bush is the fourth book in The Thompsons of Locust Street Series. I’ve enjoyed each of the first three books, but I have to admit, this fourth book has been my favorite. Muireall is a strong female character who stands up for herself, but she finds a connection with Anthony because he, too, has a strong personality. This is no simpering love story – these two lovers have to survive many difficulties on their way to happiness. A wonderful story written by a talented author that I am sure you will enjoy.

 

About the Author:

“I love you. With every bit of myself, until we are old and infirm. Until the only thing left is love.”

The Thompsons of Locust Street, Philadelphia, features five siblings from Scotland with some family secrets that could place them in danger. The first book is The Bachelor's Bride, Elspeth's story. The Bareknuckle Groom, James Thompson, is the second book, and The Professor's Lady, Kirsty Thompson, is the third. Muireall Thompson's book, The Captain's Woman, releases in January 2023.

The Gentrys of Paradise begins with the novella Into the Evermore where readers meet Virginia horse breeders, Eleanor and Beauregard Gentry. The following books feature their children, Adam, Matthew, and Olivia. For the Brave is Matthew’s story and is the first full length book of the series. Olivia's book is For This Moment and Adam's story, For Her Honor, is the final book in the series.

The Crawford Family Series following the fortunes of the three Boston born Crawford sisters and includes Train Station Bride, Contract to Wed, Her Safe Harbor, and companion novella, The Maid’s Quarters. Cross the Ocean is a British set Victorian romance. Fan favorites stand-alones include Romancing Olive and Reconstructing Jackson. Holly's books are described as ‘emotional, with heartfelt, sexy romance.’

Holly Bush books are set during the turbulent and transformative years of the late 1800’s. She makes her home with her husband, one happy Labrador Retriever, a clever Jack Russell rescued from the pound, and two difficult cats in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Connect with Holly at www.hollybushbooks.com, on Twitter @hollybushbooks, on Facebook at Holly Bush, on BookBub at Holly Bush, and on Instagram at Holly Bush Books. Follow Holly on her Amazon author page to receive new release updates and sale information.

Book Review: On The Inside by Kim Cano

 Book Review

On The Inside

Kim Cano

 

Book Description:

She didn't know what she stood to lose - until hope was all she had left.

Kristen was living the dream - a loving husband, adorable children, a successful career. Why hadn't it been enough? She's had a lot of time to ponder the answer - behind bars.

It was a little fudging of the numbers, just once to cover some unpaid bills. Somehow, she wound up a convicted white-collar criminal, sentenced to a women's prison full of drug dealers and murderers, enduring days of mind-numbing tedium punctuated by moments of harrowing violence. A place where respect is earned with one's fists.

Yet within these walls, random acts of kindness occur, friendships form, and people fall in love. Letters from her sister-in-law keep Kristen connected to the family she's lost. They give her hope that someday she might be given a second chance. But first, she must face the personal demons lurking in the shadows of her soul - and find a way to forgive herself.

 

Buy now on:

Amazon Kindle

Paperback

Audiobook

 

My 5-Star Review:

Kristen goes to prison for stealing from her employer and soon learns that life on the inside is a complicated combination of boredom, loneliness, stress, and fear. She’s lost everything—her husband won’t speak to her and her children are being kept away from her, too. Without the kindness of her sister-in-law who writes to her regularly, she would be completely lost.

As the years go by, Kristen makes friends and enemies. She finds her own path in the prison system with the goal to get out someday and hopefully be a part of her family’s life again.

On The Inside by Kim Cano is a thought-provoking story filled with interesting characters and the lives they lead inside prison. Peppered with strong emotions and heartfelt connections, you will find yourself intrigued by the women who live behind bars and their many stories. I highly recommend this novel to those who enjoy a realistic telling of what it takes to live on the inside.

 

About the Author:

Kim Cano is the author of five women's fiction novels: A Widow Redefined, On the Inside, Eighty and Out, His Secret Life, and When the Time Is Right. Readers say her books are about strong women who struggle but survive, hard-won second chances, family life, and friendship.

Kim has also written a short story collection called For Animal Lovers. 10% of the sale price of that book is donated to the ASPCA® to help homeless pets.

Visit Kim's website to receive a free copy of The Rescue: www.kimcano.com

Book Review: Dovetail by Karen McQuestion

Book Review


Dovetail: A Novel

Karen McQuestion

Book Description:

Joe Arneson’s ordinary life is upended by troubling dreams of himself as a different man in another place and time. It isn’t until he visits his estranged grandmother, Pearl, in her Wisconsin hometown that a startling connection emerges.

Drawn into his family’s past, Joe discovers secrets weighing on the old woman’s soul: the tragic death of her sister Alice a half century ago and its ripple effect on all who loved her. Digging into the events of that summer in 1916, Joe is convinced that his recurrent visions relate to Alice’s untimely passing and to the beloved man she meant to marry. With the help of Kathleen, a local woman Joe’s fallen for, the puzzles of the past start falling into place.

As uncovered truths bring Joe and Kathleen closer together, they also reveal a new danger. For Joe’s dreams may be a warning—from one star-crossed couple to another.

Buy on Amazon:

Amazon Kindle

Paperback

My 5-Star Review:

A skillfully written novel about romance, mystery, and family secrets. Author Karen McQuestion weaves together a story about the secrets a family keeps and the length they will go to keep those secrets hidden.

When Joe is rescued from a mental hospital by the grandmother he’s never met and thought was dead, he is both confused and intrigued. She takes him to her family home and asks him to pack up her house as she is too old to deal with it. Plagued by disturbing dreams he is unable to understand, Joe takes on the job as an opportunity to get to know his grandmother and to clear his mind. What he doesn’t realize is the past will rear its ugly head and place him right in the middle of a family drama.

I really enjoyed this story that takes the reader between two time periods as the family mystery unfolds. The perfect story for those who love duel-timeline historical fiction with a touch of romance and suspense.

About the Author:

Karen McQuestion is the author of more than a dozen novels and has sold over a million books worldwide. Her publishing story has been covered by the Wall Street Journal, Entertainment Weekly, and NPR and she has appeared on ABC's World News Now and America This Morning. McQuestion’s books share common themes of connection and kindness. She lives in Hartland, Wisconsin.

Book Review: Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain

Book Review

Big Lies in a Small Town

Diane Chamberlain

Book Description:

North Carolina, 2018:
Morgan Christopher's life has been derailed. Taking the fall for a crime she did not commit, her dream of a career in art is put on hold—until a mysterious visitor makes her an offer that will get her released from prison immediately. Her assignment: restore an old post office mural in a sleepy southern town. Morgan knows nothing about art restoration, but desperate to be free, she accepts. What she finds under the layers of grime is a painting that tells the story of madness, violence, and a conspiracy of small town secrets.

North Carolina, 1940:
Anna Dale, an artist from New Jersey, wins a national contest to paint a mural for the post office in Edenton, North Carolina. Alone in the world and in great need of work, she accepts. But what she doesn't expect is to find herself immersed in a town where prejudices run deep, where people are hiding secrets behind closed doors, and where the price of being different might just end in murder.

What happened to Anna Dale? Are the clues hidden in the decrepit mural? Can Morgan overcome her own demons to discover what exists beneath the layers of lies?

Buy Now:

Amazon Kindle

My 5-Star Review:

An amazing story written by a talented author. Big Lies in a Small Town by Diane Chamberlain takes the reader on a journey through time between 1940 and today. When Morgan Christopher is released from jail to restore an old mural, she is confused as to why she was chosen. And after she sees how damaged the mural is, she wonders how she will do a good job of it with her limited talent of restoration. But others are depending on her to not only finish it, but finish it on time. And as she works on it, she becomes intrigued by the original artist, Anna Dale, who’d created the mural in 1940. Her interest soon becomes an obsession to learn what had become of the artist after tragedy had befallen both her and the small town.

Just like the mural, this story is full of layers about the small town of Edenton, North Carolina and its inhabitants. Mystery, murder, and a touch of a love story all combine to create a story that you just can’t put down. Those who love a good duel-timeline historical novel will love this book.

About the Author:

Diane Chamberlain is the New York Times, USA Today and (London) Sunday Times best-selling author of 27 novels. The daughter of a school principal who supplied her with a new book almost daily, Diane quickly learned the emotional power of story. Although she wrote many small “books” as a child, she didn’t seriously turn to writing fiction until her early thirties when she was waiting for a delayed doctor’s appointment with nothing more than a pad, a pen, and an idea. She was instantly hooked.

Diane was born and raised in Plainfield, New Jersey and lived for many years in both San Diego and northern Virginia. She received her master’s degree in clinical social work from San Diego State University. Prior to her writing career, she was a hospital social worker in both San Diego and Washington, D.C, and a psychotherapist in private practice in Alexandria, Virginia, working primarily with adolescents.

More than two decades ago, Diane was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which changed the way she works: She wrote two novels using voice recognition software before new medication allowed her to get back to typing. She feels fortunate that her arthritis is not more severe and that she’s able to enjoy everyday activities as well as keep up with a busy travel schedule.

Diane lives in North Carolina with her significant other, photographer John Pagliuca, and their odd but lovable Shetland Sheepdog, Cole.

Please visit Diane's website at www.dianechamberlain.com for her event schedule and for more information on her newest novel, Big Lies in a Small Town, as well as a complete list of her books.

New Cover ~ Sara's Promise!

New cover alert!

I'm so excited to share that there is a brand new gorgeous cover for an old favorite:

Sara's Promise

I just love this new cover created by

Deborah at Tugboat Design.

If you haven't already read this 

heartfelt story,

I hope you will give it a try. 

Book Description:

Do you believe in soul mates?

William Grafton had the perfect life with his lovely wife, Sara, and two wonderful children. But one day his perfect forever was shattered when Sara died suddenly, leaving him alone to raise his children and wonder how he would ever get through life without his soul mate. Five years later, he finds himself looking into a familiar pair of blue-green eyes that remind him of Sara. The woman is the exact opposite of his late wife, yet he’s drawn to her. But after a few strange occurrences, he begins to wonder–are these just coincidences or has his Sara come back to him as she once promised in the form of this new woman?  

Annie Paxton doesn't believe in soul mates or fate. She had watched her father die of a broken heart after her mother passed away and has since cast away any fairy tale ideas of love. Then she meets the man who has been haunting her dreams and she begins to see love in a whole new light. But her dream man is still tied to his deceased wife, and Annie doesn't know if he will ever be able to break away from his past. As strange occurrences unfold, Annie wonders if William could ever truly love her for herself and not for the traits that remind him of Sara.

Were William and Annie brought together by fate, coincidence, or by Sara keeping her promise.

Buy now on Amazon:

Kindle

Paperback 

What readers are saying about Sara's Promise:

"With a realistic cast of characters who come alive and jump off the pages; a richly detailed and descriptive setting along the Oregon seaside; and a simply inspirational storyline that will have the reader experiencing the full gamut of emotions, Sara's Promise is a tenderhearted story of love that will touch your heart and soul, and will resonate with you long after the last page has been read." ~ Kathleen Higgins-Anderson - Jersey Girl Book Reviews

"Sara's Promise is a wonderful story that I just got lost in. Deanna writes such warm, beautiful words that makes one just keep reading and reading. I did not want to put the book down, I did not want to leave Sara's world." ~ The Book Bag – Susan Schliecher

"A rather charming love story, which should appeal to incurable romantics in search of a pleasant diversion. ~ Catherine Langrehr, IndieReader

I hope you'll give Sara's Promise a try. :)

Book Review: Heaven Adjacent by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Hi all,

As you may already know, I’m already a big fan of Catherine Ryan Hyde’s work. So, it will come as no surprise to you that I loved her latest novel, HEAVEN ADJACENT. Honestly, if I had to chose my favorite book of hers to date – this would be it. Beautifully written, honest, heartfelt, and realistic. I loved this one! Below is more about this novel and my review.

Heaven Adjacent

Catherine Ryan Hyde

Book Description:

From New York Times bestselling author Catherine Ryan Hyde comes a bittersweet novel about healing old wounds and finding a new place to call home…

Roseanna Chaldecott spent her life as a high-powered lawyer in Manhattan. But when her best friend and law partner dies suddenly, something snaps. Unsure of her future, Roseanna heads upstate on one tank of gas and with no plans to return.

In the foothills of the Adirondacks, Roseanna discovers the perfect hideout in a ramshackle farm. Its seventy-six acres are rich with possibilities and full of surprises, including a mother and daughter squatting on the property. Although company is the last thing Roseanna wants, she reluctantly lets them stay.

Roseanna and the young girl begin sculpting junk found around the farm into zoo animals, drawing more newcomers—including her estranged son, Lance. He pleads with Roseanna to return to the city, but she’s finally discovered where she belongs. It may not provide the solitude she originally sought, but her heart has found room for much more.

Publish Date: June 19, 2018

Lake Union Publishing

Preorder now on Amazon

My 5-Star Review:

Rosanna has a high-powered job and everything that money can buy but when her best friend passes away suddenly, Rosanna has second thoughts about the life she is living. On a drive outside of the city, she comes upon a run-down farm that calls her name. A place to be alone and rethink her life. But after buying it, she finds she is not alone. Other people are drawn to her little piece of heaven too. And when her son shows up on her doorstep, wondering what has gotten into her, she isn’t sure how to answer. Can she return to her empty city life, or is the little farm her destiny?

Beautifully written, heartfelt, sometimes humorous, honest. These words describe this latest story by Catherine Ryan Hyde. She touches a nerve here, giving the reader something to think about. Are you living your life to its fullest? Rosanna isn’t sure she is, and we follow her as she struggles with the changes going on around her. Changes occurring by her recent loss, by the people who are now surrounding her, by her trying to reconnect with her grown son. But the author does this in a way that entertains, makes you smile, and maybe even cry. This is Catherine Ryan Hyde at her best. Highly recommended.

About the Author:

Catherine Ryan Hyde is the author of thirty-three published books. Her bestselling 1999 novel, Pay It Forward, adapted into a major Warner Bros. motion picture, made the American Library Association’s Best Books for Young Adults list and was translated into more than two dozen languages for distribution in more than thirty countries. Her novels Becoming Chloe and Jumpstart the World were included on the ALA’s Rainbow List; Jumpstart the World was also a finalist for two Lambda Literary Awards and won Rainbow Awards in two categories. The Language of Hoofbeatswon a Rainbow Award. More than fifty of her short stories have been published in many journals, including the Antioch Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, the Virginia Quarterly Review, Ploughshares, Glimmer Train, and the Sun, and in the anthologies Santa Barbara Stories and California Shorts, as well as the bestselling anthology Dog Is My Co-Pilot. Her short fiction received honorable mention in the Raymond Carver Short Story Contest, a second-place win for the Tobias Wolff Award, and nominations for Best American Short Stories, the O. Henry Award, and the Pushcart Prize. Three have also been cited in Best American Short Stories.

Hyde is the founder and former president of the Pay It Forward Foundation. As a professional public speaker, she has addressed the National Conference on Education, twice spoken at Cornell University, met with AmeriCorps members at the White House, and shared a dais with Bill Clinton. An avid equestrian, photographer, and traveler, she lives in California.

Cover Reveal: As the Snow Fell by Deanna Lynn Sletten

Hi all,

I am so excited to share with you the beautiful cover of my upcoming romance novel, As the Snow Fell. We return to the delightful Lake Harriet neighborhood where we first met Kristen and Ryan and their beloved dog, Sam, in Walking Sam. If you loved their story, you are going to love Mallory and James story too.

Here is the gorgeous cover created for me by Deborah at Tugboat Design

Book Description:

In the charming Lake Harriet neighborhood in Minneapolis, MN, where we first met Kristen, Ryan, and their beloved dog, Sam, in Walking Sam, we meet another couple who are struggling to find true love.

Mallory Dawson is planning the winter wedding of her dreams. She’s found a wonderful man to share her life with and is looking forward to a promising future together. But one month before her wedding, she runs into the man she once loved who she hasn’t seen in ten years and her entire life is turned upside down.

James Gallagher fled to California ten years ago to start his life over after the love of his life, Mallory, refused to marry him. But when his dad passes away and his mother becomes ill, he returns home to help run the family business. Seeing Mallory again brings a flood of memories back, and he begins to wonder what his life would have been like if he hadn’t left.

Will the wedding go on or will fate play a hand in Mallory's happily ever after?

Publish Date: November 21, 2017

Contemporary Romance/Sweet Romance

Pre-order now on:

Amazon Kindle - $3.99

Barnes & Noble Nook - $3.99

Coming Soon to:

Paperback

Be sure to pre-order now!

Book Review: Worthy by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Hi all,

I have never read one of Catherine Ryan Hyde’s books before this, and after having read Worthy, I can’t believe what I’ve been missing out on. Worthy is such an intriguing, heartfelt story that I am pleased to have had the chance to read it. Here is more about the novel and my review.

(I received a copy of Worthy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.)

 

Worthy

Catherine Ryan Hyde


Book Description:

They might’ve been a family.

Virginia finally had the chance to explore a relationship with Aaron when he asked her on a date. She had been waiting, hoping that the widower and his young son, Buddy, would welcome her into their lives. But a terrible tragedy strikes on the night of their first kiss, crushing their hopes for a future together.

Nineteen years later, Virginia is engaged, though she has not forgotten Aaron or Buddy. When her dog goes missing and it comes to light that her fiancé set him loose, a distraught Virginia breaks off the engagement and is alone once again. A shy young man has found the missing pet, and although he’s bonded with the animal, he answers his conscience and returns the dog. Before long, Virginia and the young man discover a connection from their pasts that will help them let go of painful memories and change their lives forever.

Buy on Amazon:

Kindle

Paperback

Audible

 

My 5 Star Review:

Virginia is on the verge of a new beginning when tragedy strikes and all she’s hoped for is taken from her in one fell swoop. She moves on with her life, but cannot forget the man or the son that could have been hers. Nineteen years later, her dog is missing and she is frantic. She’s engaged, but is learning that her fiancé is not the man she’d hoped he be. When she learns that a shy, young man, who has just lost his grandfather, has her dog, she goes to reclaim him. But the boy has become attached to the dog already, and it becomes complicated. In fact, her whole life soon becomes complicated as she learns of her connection to this boy from long ago.

Worthy is a powerful, emotional, and heartfelt story. Through strong dialogue, we learn so much about each character—their hopes, dreams, flaws, and strengths. I loved the friendship between the outspoken Fern and strong-minded Virginia. The scenes between Jody, the young man, and Virginia are powerful and sometimes intense. You know these characters inside out and feel their struggles and disappointments, as well as their accomplishments. And of course, who wouldn’t love the loyal, sweet-dispositioned dog, Worthy? A wonderful story that will make you think about the characters long after you’ve read the last page.

 

About the Author:

Catherine Ryan Hyde is the author of 30 published and forthcoming books, including WORTHY, THE LANGUAGE OF HOOFBEATS, TAKE ME WITH YOU, WHERE WE BELONG, WHEN I FOUND YOU, WALK ME HOME, SECOND HAND HEART, DON'T LET ME GO, and WHEN YOU WERE OLDER. New Kindle editions of her backlist titles FUNERALS FOR HORSES, EARTHQUAKE WEATHER AND OTHER STORIES, ELECTRIC GOD, and WALTER'S PURPLE HEART are now available. Also available is THE LONG, STEEP PATH: EVERYDAY INSPIRATION FROM THE AUTHOR OF PAY IT FORWARD, her first book-length creative nonfiction.

An avid hiker, traveler, equestrian, and amateur photographer, she has just released her first book of photos, 365 DAYS OF GRATITUDE: PHOTOS FROM A BEAUTIFUL WORLD.

She is co-author, with publishing industry blogger Anne R. Allen, of HOW TO BE A WRITER IN THE E-AGE: A SELF-HELP GUIDE.

Her best-known novel, PAY IT FORWARD, was adapted into a major motion picture, chosen by the American Library Association for its Best Books for Young Adults list, and translated into more than 23 languages for distribution in over 30 countries. The paperback was released in October 2000 by Pocket Books and quickly became a national bestseller. Simon & Schuster released PAY IT FORWARD: YOUNG READERS' EDITION in August of '14. It is suitable for kids as young as eight. A special Fifteenth Anniversary Edition of the original PAY IT FORWARD was released in December of '14

LOVE IN THE PRESENT TENSE enjoyed bestseller status in the UK, where it broke the top ten, spent five weeks on the bestseller lists, was reviewed on a major TV book club, and shortlisted for a Best Read of the Year award at the British Book Awards. Both BECOMING CHLOE and JUMPSTART THE WORLD were included on the ALA's Rainbow List, and JUMPSTART THE WORLD was a finalist for two Lambda Literary Awards. WHERE WE BELONG won two Rainbow Awards in 2013.

More than 50 of her short stories have been published in The Antioch Review, Michigan Quarterly Review, The Virginia Quarterly Review, Ploughshares, Glimmer Train and many other journals, and in the anthologies Santa Barbara Stories and California Shorts and the bestselling anthology Dog is my Co-Pilot. Her stories have been honored in the Raymond Carver Short Story Contest and the Tobias Wolff Award and nominated for Best American Short Stories, the O'Henry Award, and the Pushcart Prize. Three have been cited in Best American Short Stories.

She is founder and former president (2000-2009) of the Pay It Forward Foundation, and still serves on its board of directors. As a professional public speaker she has addressed the National Conference on Education, twice spoken at Cornell University, met with Americorps members at the White House and shared a dais with Bill Clinton.

For more information, please visit the author at www.catherineryanhyde.com

Cheers,
Deanna

Maggie's Turn on NetGalley

Hi all,


I'm excited to share that the new "improved" MAGGIE'S TURN, published by Lake Union Publishing, is now available on NetGalley for book bloggers and reviewers to download until August 11th. I'm very excited about this updated version of Maggie's Turn, and hope that you will get a chance to read and review it.

Click here to go to Maggie's Turn on NetGalley

You must be an authorized reviewer with an account with NetGalley to access this page.


For Readers:

Maggie's Turn is available for pre-order on Amazon. Remember - this is a reprint of my original novel, Maggie's Turn, and is not a different novel. It is just polished up a bit and has a new cover. So, if you've already read Maggie's Turn - great! If not - you can pre-order the new one which will be available July 14, 2015.

Here is more info about Maggie's Turn:

 

Book Description:

 

Maggie has always put her family’s needs in front of her own, until one day—without forethought—she drives away, leaving behind her indifferent husband and two sulking teenagers.

 

As she begins a quest of self-exploration, she meets new people, enjoys new adventures, and rediscovers long-neglected passions. For the first time in years, Maggie contemplates what she wants from life and soon realizes that her deteriorating marriage can no longer continue as it is. Can she and Andrew repair their broken relationship, or is their marriage over?

 

Left to his own devices, Andrew is forced to take over the household responsibilities and bridge the growing divide between himself and his children. Slowly, he begins to understand what drove Maggie away—and how he can’t bear to live without her. But is it too late? Will Andrew lose Maggie forever?

Contemporary Women's Fiction
Available on Amazon Kindle and Paperback


Pre-order now on Amazon Kindle

Cheers,

Deanna

Three Years of Self-Publishing and Still Going Strong!

 

Hi all,

Three years ago today, I self-published my first novel, Widow, Virgin, Whore. Although I had been writing novels for years, I had never had a platform to sell them on.  After numerous rejection slips from agents and publishers, I'd pretty much given up. And then I heard about self-publishing on Amazon, and that opened up a whole new world for me.

When I self-published my first novel, I really had no expectations. That first month, I sold two books. I was thrilled. At least two people would read my book. Later that month, I published my middle- grade novel Outlaw Heroes, and then in March of 2012 I published Memories.  Sales grew, and so did the income. At the time, I'd read that authors who self-published were lucky if they earned $500 a year from their books. In only three months, I'd already surpassed that amount. I ignored the naysayers and continued self-publishing.

Three years later, I've published nine books and I'm already working on my tenth. I've sold approximately 150,000 books over that three year span and that's just the ebooks. Sure, there are many authors earning a lot more than I am, but I'm happy that I've been able to do something I love and share it with readers. I've met so many nice people, including readers, reviewers, bloggers, and of course, all my author friends. It's been such a rewarding experience.

And the best news of all – This past month I was approached by a publisher who purchased Maggie's Turn and will be republishing it in the Summer of 2015. We will be working to polish Maggie up and get her ready for her big reveal. I'm so excited to start this new phase of my writing career. And of course, I'll still be writing and self-publishing other novels.

In 2015, I hope to self-publish at least three novels – maybe four if I make myself sit down and write! I know authors who write a book a month, but I can't even imagine that. Writing four books this year was enough for me – I need to have a life as well. J

My three years of self-publishing has been amazing and I look forward to many, many more. Thank you all for your support throughout my writing journey. I couldn't have done this without all the kind words from readers, my blogger friends, and my author friends. You are all amazing!

 

Cheers,

Deanna

Book Review: Flawless by Jan Moran

Hi all,

I want to share with you this novel by the talented Jan Moran. Flawless is the first book in the series titled The Hostile Beauty Series, and I enjoyed it very much. Below is more about the book and my review.

Flawless (A Hostile Beauty Series Novel Book One)

Jan Moran


Book Description:

Verena Valent is at the helm of her family's legendary Swiss skincare company, which caters to a glamorous clientele in the heart of Beverly Hills. After her parents are killed in an automobile accident, she becomes the sole provider for her younger twin sisters and her grandmother. Instead of attending college with her friends as planned, she rises to the challenge to guide and expand her family's business. She is in the midst of a critical international expansion into Asia when her carefully organized life begins to unravel.

Verena is shaken to discover that her fiancé, Derrick, might be behind a scheme to take over her growing company. While she struggles to save the business that means everything to her, she meets Lance, an executive chef at the Beverly Hills Hotel. She encounters this intriguing man again while on a business trip to Paris, and soon gains a new perspective on love, romance, and relationships.

When the unthinkable occurs and Verena's world collapses, her friends rally around her, among them Scarlett Sandoval, a top intellectual property attorney; Dahlia DuBois, a perfumer from an esteemed line of French perfumers; and Fianna Fitzgerald, a fashion designer with her own trendy boutique.

Ultimately, Verena learns that truth, family, friendship, and love are the unshakable pillars of life. But will she get a second chance in business, or in love?

Flawless is the first book in the Hostile Beauty Series. Follow a group of smart, stylish, entrepreneurial friends as they navigate the turbulences of modern life in the business of beauty. Set in Beverly Hills with action flung across the globe, this engaging series features gutsy, determined best friends, and how they manage to live the lives of their dreams.

Buy Flawless on:

AmazonKindle 

Barnes & Noble Nook

Paperback

Beauty Mark (A Hostile Beauty Series Novel Book Two) by Jan Moran – Book two in the series - is now available for Pre-Sale on:

AmazonKindle

Paperback

My 5 Star Review:

Verena Valent is a woman with enormous responsibility on her shoulders. She not only runs the family's high end skincare business in prestigious Beverly Hills, but she's been responsible for raising her younger twin sisters since the death of her parents. Her Grandmother Mia's health also weighs heavily upon her. To complicate things further, the sagging economy forces Verena to seek funds for her business from an unscrupulous source, placing her under even more stress. Can Verena trust her fiancé who works for the funding company to watch out for her interests, or is he the enemy, too?

Flawless is a fast-paced, beautifully written novel about money, power, greed, family, and friendship. Verena and her group of powerful girlfriends are strong, independent women who are a strong support system for each other. With the glamorous backdrop of Beverly Hills where the beautiful people play and often backstab their friends, Flawless has many layers that will pique your interest and keep you reading. If you love novels with interesting characters and a powerful storyline, and with a little love story on the side, you will enjoy Flawless.

(I received a complimentary copy of Flawless from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for my honest review.)

About the Author:

Jan Moran is a Rizzoli bestselling and award winning author. She writes historical women's fiction for St. Martin's Press, contemporary women's fiction, and nonfiction books. Her stories are smart and stylish, and written with emotional depth. Jan often draws on her international travel and business experiences, infusing her books with realistic details. The Midwest Book Review and Kirkus have recommended her books, calling her heroines strong, complex, and resourceful. She blogs for ProjectEve and at www.janmoran.com.

Jan has been featured in numerous publications and on television and radio, including CNN, Women's Wear Daily, Allure, InStyle, and O Magazine. As an editor and writer, she has covered fragrance, beauty, and spa travel for a variety of publications such as Cosmopolitan, Elle, Costco Connection, and Porthole Cruise.

As a serial entrepreneur, Jan is the founder and creator of Scentsa, a touch-screen software program for retailers and brands. The fragrance and skincare programs are at Sephora stores in the US, Canada, and international locations. Scentsa was recently sold to Sephora. A graduate of Harvard Business School, Jan's latest venture is Rich Ideas, a community for authors, consultants, and entrepreneurs, where she shares her knowledge of writing and business.

Connect with Jan:

Blog:  www.JanMoranWrites.com.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/janmoran

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/janmoranbooks.

Cheers,

Deanna

Maggie's Turn Hits the Top 100 at Amazon and Barnes & Noble!

Hi all,

I am so excited to share with you that my novel MAGGIE'S TURN hit the top 100 lists on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble in September and stayed there for two days. It's very exciting to see your book up that high on those sites. The best part is I hope it allows more readers the chance to see and enjoy my novels.

I want to thank all the readers who purchased Maggie's Turn and made the promotion such a big success. You are all amazing!

Here's what happened!

On 9/26/14, Maggie's Turn made it up to #29 on the top 100 bestseller's list on Amazon. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to get a screenshot of it, but I did get one of it at #30.

That same day, it hit #7 on Barnes & Nobles top 100 bestseller's list. You can bet I was excited!

I also ranked in the Top 100 Authors on Amazon, which is always a thrill. Look what great company I'm in!

Thanks again to everyone who purchased a copy of Maggie's Turn. I hope you enjoy reading Maggie's story. I loved writing Maggie's Turn, and the fact that I get to share it with so many people is heartwarming.

Cheers,
Deanna

Book Review: Red, White & Screwed by Holly Bush

Hi all,

Holly Bush is an amazing author of historical romances and I've enjoyed and reviewed all of her books. Now she has shifted gears with her latest novel by delving into contemporary romance. Her latest novel, Red, White & Screwed, is filled with drama, humor, and the craziest topic of all – politics! And it won't surprise her avid readers that this new novel is as wonderful, if not even more amazing, than her others. Here is more information about Holly's new book and my five star review.

 

Red, White & Screwed

Holly Bush

 

Book Description:

Political strategist Glenda Nelson is having a meltdown. Her handpicked, very married Congressional candidate was just caught climbing out of the window of the Sleepytown Motel, and her philandering ex-husband seems to have the most to gain from the colossal scandal that follows. As Glenda attempts to salvage the campaign in a hotly contested race, conservative and liberal pundits pounce on the story to further their own agendas.

Glenda’s love life is nonexistent to say the least, that is, until she meets handsome artist Chris Goodrich. Chris’s easy-going, carefree outlook on life couldn’t be more different than the 90-mph crazy train that is Glenda’s, but the more time she spends with him, the more she craves his calming presence, his sexy smile, and his steamy embraces. Is Chris worth taking a chance on?

Between the pressure of full-blown spin control mode, rapidly declining job security, refereeing two teenagers, caring for aging parents, and spending hours on her therapist’s couch trying to get past her ex’s crushing betrayal, Glenda finds love and makes the long trek back to happy.

 

Buy Red, White & Screwed:

Amazon Kindle 

B&N Nook

Kobo

iTunes Store

 

My Five Star Review:

Glenda Nelson has enough on her plate as a divorced mother with two children, a demanding career, her aging parents, and an annoying ex-husband who doesn't understand the first thing about loyalty. But when the married Congressional candidate who she has been promoting is caught having an affair, all hell breaks loose and it is the last straw for Glenda. On the bright side, a handsome artist, Chris, finds the stressed-out Glenda attractive and interesting and pursues a relationship with her. But after being hurt once before, can Glenda trust and love again?

In this fast-paced, highly entertaining novel, Holly Bush does an excellent job of creating real life characters that are relatable to the reader as well as endearing. Women can definitely relate to the issues Glenda faces, juggling a career, children, and relationships. Sometimes it is just easier to push your own needs aside and do for others, but it's not the healthiest way to deal with life, and Glenda soon realizes that she must consider her own needs as well. Glenda's relationship with the handsome Chris is sweet and heartwarming, and the problems Glenda faces at work, mixed with political mishaps, offer a humorous look at the craziness of politics.

Red, White & Screwed is a refreshing, entertaining, and heartwarming novel that I wholeheartedly recommend to everyone who loves the romance genre.

 

 

 About Holly:

Holly Bush was born in western Pennsylvania to two avid readers. There was not a room in her home that did not hold a full bookcase. Holly has been a marketing consultant to start-up businesses and has done public speaking on the subject.

Holly has been writing all of her life and is a voracious reader of a wide variety of fiction and non-fiction, particularly political and historical works. She writes historical romance set on the American Prairie and in Victorian England, and more recently, Contemporary Romance and Women’s Fiction. She frequently attends writing conferences, and has always been a member of a writer’s group.

Holly is a gardener, a news junkie, has been an active member of her local library board and loves to spend time near the ocean. She is the proud mother of two daughters and the wife of a man more than a few years her junior.

Connect with Holly on:

Her Website

Facebook

Goodreads

Twitter

 

Cheers,

Deanna