A Promise of More: The Disgraced Lords Series A Loveswept Historical Romance by Bronwen Evans

I would like to begin by saying that author Bronwen Evans is one of my favorite authors. I recently discovered her books and I am so happy that I did. Ms. Evans' writing is music to my ears, she is cutting edge, innovative. The first book in The Disgraced Lords Series, A KISS OF LIES is the very first book I read by Bronwen Evans, and I loved it so, that I read her entire back list in a few days and now crave more. 

In the second installment of The Disgraced Lords Series, A PROMISE OF MORE, we find Sebastian Hawkstone, the Marquis of Coldhurst (quite aptly named), returning to England after being pardoned by the Prince Regent after a duel in which he his opponent ends up dying. On the docks awaits the sister of the deceased man, and it is Beatrice Hennessey's hatred for Sebastian for causing the death of her brother and the downfall of her family and their non-existent finances, which brings her to the docks. Doogie Hennessey was to have married in order to better his family's situation, but with his death, his mother and siblings are left to pick up the pieces. While Beatrice attempts to gain entry aboard ship amongst the prostitutes who are invited to entertain the sailors, she is  pushed into the murky waters by a disgruntled , unable to swim due to the weight of her heavy gown. 

Choking up the murky waters, Beatrice opens her eyes to behold the handsome devil who has saved her from drowning only to discover that her savior is none other than Sebastian Hawkstone. Once Sebastian realizes that his near drowning victim is Doogie Hennessey's sister he knows something must be wrong.

Once Beatrice regains consciousness, she tells Sebastian that the only way for him to recompense the Hennessey family for Doogie's death is for the Marquis to marry her and save her family from the poorhouse. At first Sebastian is appalled at the idea. The rake had no intention of marrying but the more he thought about the prospect of having the beauty to warm his bed and give him an heir without the fuss that comes with a normal marriage, he sees the light.

The only thing holding Beatrice back from having warm feelings for Sebastian is the fact that he killed her brother. There is no denying from the evident sparks that fly, that both Sebastian and Beatrice are deeply attracted to one another, but that is what neither wants nor needs. Once the couple are wed, new information about the death of Doogie Hennessey is revealed and the probability that Sebastian is not the killer makes for an engrossing tale of whodunit and why in Bronwen Evans A PROMISE OF MORE.

Well there we have it and what a great story it is! A PROMISE OF MORE is mystery, suspense and romance all wrapped up into one enthralling package. One perfect package I didn't want to put down or even to end. I do feel that it is necessary to read A KISS OF LIES first, if only to get a deeper understanding of who Sebastian really is. I truly like both the hero and heroine, even with their bouts of jealousy and misunderstanding comes to a head. Sebastian has his own personal reasons not to be open and trusting, especially when he knows that his newly acquired wife is hiding important things from him. Beatrice knows she could have it worse than being the unloved wife of the Marquis, but once she sets her mind to it, she finds she can't live without a love she is never quite sure will ever be hers.

A PROMISE OF MORE by Bronwen Evans is another classic in the making from this great author. I highly recommend it, and any title by her. You can't go wrong.

~KIMBERLY~

UNLACING LADY THEA by LOUISE ALLEN

Appearing on Lord Rhys Denham's doorstep ill-disguised as a boy, Lady Althea Curtiss has left home after discovering her intended only wanted her dowry. The self proclaimed plain miss asks her old and dearest friend Rhys to allow her to accompany him in his travels of the continent and safely deposit her into their mutual godmother's care in Italy. 

Six years after having been left at the alter by his would be bride, Rhys still feels the affects of the betrayal, he isn't ready to move on a find a wife who would make him content and give him an heir. At the time of Rhys' troubles, the young Thea was secretly in love with him and helped him weather the would-be bride's and his best male friend's deception of their elopement.  When Thea reminds Rhys of a promise he made to her at that point in time, he agrees to help her in her quest of escaping a loveless marriage.

In their travels, the friends surrender to their passions and begin an affair that is destined to create heartache for all involved. 

UNLACING LADY THEA is a interesting tale of unknown destiny and beginning new lives. I enjoyed it, but I found myself skimming more than paying intent attention. Thea consistently doubts anyone's interest in her other than for her dowry and for pity and it becomes tedious. The likable Lord Denham has so many chances to awaken from his stupor of stubbornness before he is basically knocked in the head by a Reverend who ends up traveling with the pair. All's well that ends well,  and that is the upside to UNLACING LADY THEA by Louise Allen.

~KIMBERLY~

Trust Me? The Trust Me? Trilogy by K E Osborn is now available for purchase for FREE from the 14-16th March ONLY at Amazon, Smashwords, Apple, Barnes & Noble and Kobo

Amazon Buy Link

Smashwords

)

THREE WEEKS WITH A BULL RIDER (OKLAHOMA NIGHTS #3) BY CAT JOHNSON

Jace and Tara have annoyed one another for quite some time. Jace thinks his best friend's little sister is beyond annoying with her foul mouth and flippant attitude and Tara thinks Jace is overbearing and obnoxious and then they end up being traveling companions on the Central States Rodeo Circuit and the gloves are off... or are they on?

When the car that Tara purchases to help her complete her sports medicine internship decides to die, Tara is left at the mercy of Jace Mills who needs to get out of "Dodge" real quick. Even though Jace broke up with his ex, Jacqueline a year ago, they still have a love/hate relationship going on in the form of extreme booty calls and knock down fights that Jace now feels he needs to avoid like the plague. So Jace thinks it a good idea to get back on some bulls, stay far away from his stalker and help Tara with finish her internship. All the while, this high strung female and sexy alpha male agree that their mutual dislike of one another will be the perfect reason to travel in each other's company. In addition to his wanting to run away from his ex, Tara needs to distance herself from the man she has been in love with her former neighbor, Logan Hunt, who up and married Emma, leaving Tara heartbroken. So two broken emotionally impaired people, who say they dislike one another decide to travel around the central states a in truck, stay in the same hotel room and remain  platonic?  Who are they joking? Especially wen author Cat Johnson is involved.

Tara is clearly out of her league with the attention she is garnering from all the rookie bull riders, but once she is determined she wants something, not much can stop this force to be reckoned with from seeking out some of the sexual experience she is over eager to get. When Jace catches her in a broom closet at a bar playing an "adult" version of Seven Minutes in Heaven with a newbie bull rider, his alpha male is in full gear and he decides to show Tara the difference between a boy and a man. From the first kiss the pair's passion sizzles and threatens to ignite. Jace can't get the thought out of his head that this is his best friend's little sister and he would in no way want to betray the trust that Tuck has bestowed on Jace when he placed his baby sister in Jace's hands. Tara has other ideas though and they involve getting as much sexual experience as she can possibly get from Jace and still retain the status quo of indifference... Haha, whatever Tara. 

Jace has no idea the monster he has unleashed by just awakening the passions in Tara with his kisses and the resolve she has to get what she wants makes Jace no match for her feminine wiles. 

The one word that comes to my mind immediately when I think of Three Weeks with a Bull Rider by Cat Johnson is HOT, and Cat knows very well how to write HOT along with a fabulous and memorable story. Those readers invested in The Oklahoma Nights series think they know the characters well, until they read this book. Let's face it, Tara is a brat in Two Times As Hot, and even when this story begins, I was a tad in "hate" with her. On the other hand, I always loved Jace. Yes, I like the underdog. Jace's personality was always one that shines through for me. I was so excited to see what Cat Johnson would do with him in this book and I am exceedingly happy with the outcome. The intimate scenes are explosive, but never overboard. Tara's need to explore is enticing and romantic, even if she thinks it isn't. Three Weeks with a Bull Rider is my new favorite, maybe until Tyler's tale, we shall see. Cat Johnson ability to come up with something fresh and evocative makes Three Weeks with a Bull Rider a remarkable read. I highly recommend this exceptional ride, along with every book in the Oklahoma Nights series.

~KIMBERLY~

FEAR THE DARK (re-release MARCH 11, 2014) by PATRICIA A. RASEY

A vicious serial killer is on the loose, and his weapon of choice slithers, rattles...and bites! Can Detective Jack Carter and Cara Banks catch him before time runs out and Cara realizes her ultimate nightmare? They'll need to put their personal differences aside to capture the evil unleashed within their community and maybe find out where they went wrong along the way.

"Read Pat Rasey's latest thriller at your own risk and way before dark. It's deadly!"--Ann Bachman, Lifetime Best-selling Author of Together Again

Buy on Amazon: 
FEAR THE DARK by PATRICIA A. RASEY

THE PROSPECT ( MALLOY FAMILY SERIES # 10) by BETH WILLIAMSON

 Declan Calhoun was attempting to reform his sordid past of criminal activity. Making up for the kidnapping of Francesca Chastain, this Irishman from New York who ran with the bad crowd was now working a wagon train to Oregon helping settlers get to their new futures. Among the crowd, Josephine Chastain, self-proclaimed bookworm and former governess eyes Declan with suspicion but also with interest. Josephine, sister to Francesca began to notice the gruff and bearded Declan more and more each day on the trail and became smitten with the big, brooding male when he paid attention to her. Declan is also attracted to the bespectacled lass but knows deep down he is deserving of no one because of his upbringing and his past indiscretions.

When Josephine falls seriously ill with Typhoid fever, Declan remains behind in a town along the route to nurse her back to health, promising her parents that he will see her through her illness and return her to her parents the following season. After three awful weeks in the clutches of the fever, Josephine awakens to the shock and surprise that by some twist of fate, she is now Mrs. Declan Calhoun. Not too disturbed by the revelation of being married to the now clean shaven and gorgeous specimen of a man, Josephine takes this marriage of a sign and wants to make the marriage a real one. Declan on the other hand attempts to steer clear of the blossoming Jo but finds it extremely difficult with her forthright tongue and her eagerness to become a wife.

 Declan and Josephine escape their quarantine when Declan realizes it's a false one and he is being milked dry for every penny he has by the unscrupulous town dentist, Frank Drummond and his henchman Parker. Declan must get Josephine to her sister Francesca and her new husband John, but with the men in pursuit and and even the wilds against them time is not on their sides. As the days go on, Josephine has come to the realization she is in love with her brooding Irishman and needs to convince him their relationship is one worth fighting for, even when Declan, who is every bit in love with Josephine as she is with him, knows he can never be what Jo needs and wants. When Declan finally tells Josephine a truth he has been withholding from her, she doesn't know if she can forgive him, and Declan doesn't know if he wants to be forgiven.

In typical Beth Williamson fashion, The Prospect draws the reader into the action, the danger and the seduction of the story. The intricate web of trust and understanding  woven between Declan and  Josephine is the basis for the ultimate letdown when Josephine is told Declan's truth. The woman she has become since the beginning of the journey from East to West will not stand for deception and for pity, and Declan's realization of that throws him for a loop.

I truly loved The Prospect. I love stories about bringing people together from seemingly different walks of  life, and Beth Williamson is a master in the scheme of things. This series never gets old. It's a joy to return to the Malloy family fold time and again. 

~KIMBERLY~

RACHEL L. DEMETER ~ THE FROST OF SPRINGTIME ~

The recent release of The Frost of Springtime, by debut author Rachel L. Demeter, transports readers to the war torn streets of nineteenth century Paris. Driven by paradoxical characters, steamy encounters, and a compelling storyline, it's a bittersweet tale of revolution, redemption, and the healing power of love. Described as "poignant," emotionally devastating,” and “beautiful," The Frost of Springtime is sure to please historical and romance readers alike. Available now in both eBook and paperback. Currently Amazon Prime members can read the Kindle edition for free!

Publication Date: February 14, 2014
Black Lyon Publishing
Formats: Paperback, Kindle eBook

Genre: Historical Romance/Historical Fiction

To rescue her was to rescue his own soul.

On a cold Parisian night, Vicomte Aleksender de Lefèvre forges an everlasting bond with a broken girl during her darkest hour, rescuing her from a life of abuse and misery. Tormented by his own demons, he finds his first bit of solace in sheltering little Sofia Rose.

But when Aleksender is drawn away by the Franco-Prussian war, the seasons pass. And in that long year, Sofia matures into a stunning young woman—a dancer with an understanding of devotion and redemption far surpassing her age.

Alongside his closest friend, Aleksender returns home to find that “home” is gone, replaced by revolution, bloodshed, betrayal—and a love always out of reach. Scarred inside and out, he’s thrust into a world of sensuality and violence—a world in which all his hours have now grown dark, and where only Sofia might bring an end to the winter in his heart.

Inspired by the 1871 Paris Commune, The Frost of Springtime is a poignant tale of revolution, redemption, and the healing power of love.

Read an Excerpt

The heat of their bodies mingled as one. With each breath, Aleksender drank in the sweet essence of his beloved ward. His mind swam with unorthodox visions and desires. He inclined his head, lost to the power of her nearness, entranced by everything that was Sofia.

“Alek, my Alek …”

Each word infused Aleksender with a delicious and undeniable warmth. Intoxicated by roses and wintertime, he found it difficult to speak, difficult to think. Breathless, he swallowed and met the haunting depths of her eyes.

“Please,” she dreamily murmured, “I want you to kiss me again…”

READ SAMPLE PROLOGUE & FIRST TWO CHAPTERS ON GOODREADS.

Watch the Book Trailer



Praise for The Frost of Springtime

“I am astonished at this being Rachel L. Demeter’s debut work, for in form and style, it is very much a tour de force. A riveting story of love and courage in the aftermath of a brutal war, the author brilliantly juxtaposes the hazing splendor of French nobility and the impassioned elegance of two people in love, despite all the world’s oppositions. The title is, in a sense, a representation of change: the beginning of a new spring with La Belle Époque and the transition into a new era, for the world and our protagonists. The wistful loveliness of the setting paints a picture of a crying France, blending in with the dynamic romance perfectly. Or rather, it does not merely blend in the background as much as glitters like the brightest jewel, shining with a vibrancy that makes one want to relieve the halcyon days of grand old Paris. I was captivated by the setting, the lush writing of Rachel L. Demeter, and the subtle expressiveness of the characters, which all compelled me to research more of the historical background, of the 1871 Paris Commune, through which this story is made more infinitely dearer.” – Buried Under Romance

“We are in awe. The Frost of Springtime is a MUST HAVE! Despite that we loved the true facts, we fell instantly in love with the story. It was dark, emotionally devastating, and sensual. The innocence between the two main characters was beautiful and their love grew so strong throughout the story with such grace. One of us even cried while reading The Frost of Springtime. We loved the cover, we loved the writing style, and we adored the characters. We fell in love, really hard." – Divas Book Blog

“This novel is intricately detailed and wonderfully written! Opening with a heartbreaking scene, I was immediately drawn to the story of Aleksender and his Sofia. Of course, as the story moved on, other enchanting characters helped to make this poignant book complete. The author has blended historical facts with fiction skillfully, and presented several narratives flawlessly. It’s beautiful! I loved it!” – Romancebookworm’s Reviews

“I absolutely love this book. The Frost of Springtime shows how love and tragedy go hand in hand and that love can actually be more powerful than anything. I have found that most books do not hit this point right on the nail like this one does. It’s a Historical Romance and let me just tell you this is one book I couldn’t put down.” – Magic Within The Pages

“WOW!! The Frost of Springtime is a powerful, epic love story unlike anything I’ve ever read before. The emotional and visual/sensory depth is astounding. I felt Aleksender and Sofia’s connection from beginning to end. Aleksender’s path to healing was at times breathtaking and heartbreaking. This is a hero who loves his woman with every last breath, every fiber of his being… and there’s nothing he wouldn’t do for her. AMAZING cast of secondary characters as well… a 'villain' who actually leaves you morally torn! Beautifully written (loved the vivid imagery and descriptions!), dark, unusual, rich with history, epic scope, and a soul deep love that only comes once in a lifetime… Brava!!!” – Sivonna, an advanced reader

Buy the Book

Amazon (Kindle eBook) *Amazon Prime members can read the kindle edition for free!
Amazon (Paperback)
Barnes & Noble
Black Lyon Publishing

About the Author

Rachel L. Demeter lives in the beautiful hills of Anaheim, California with Teddy, her goofy lowland sheepdog, and high school sweetheart of ten years. She enjoys writing dark, edgy romances that challenge the reader’s emotions and examine the redeeming power of love. Imagining stories and characters has been Rachel’s passion for longer than she can remember. Before learning how to read or write, she would dictate stories while her mom would jot them down for her. She has a special affinity for the tortured hero and unconventional romances.

Whether sculpting the protagonist or antagonist, she always ensures that every character is given a soul. Rachel strives to intricately blend elements of romance, suspense, and horror. Some common themes her stories never stray too far from: forbidden romance, soul mates, the power of love to redeem, mend all wounds, and triumph over darkness.

Her dream is to move readers and leave an emotional impact through her words.



Author Links

Website
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Goodreads
Pinterest
LinkedIn
YouTube

SIGN UP FOR RACHEL L. DEMETER'S NEWSLETTER.

Book Blast Schedule

Monday, March 3
HF Book Muse-News
Read More Romance
A Bibliotaph's Reviews
Oh, for the Hook of a Book
Romance Reviews by Alice
Good Books and Good Coffee

Tuesday, March 4
Diva's Book Blog
Room With Books
LovLivLife Reviews
Perusing Princesses
The Maiden's Court
Book Lovers Paradise
Flashlight Commentary

Wednesday, March 5
The True Book Addict
Curling Up By the Fire
Buried Under Romance
A Blog Hop Place for Books
Svetlana's Reads and Views
History From a Woman's Perspective

Thursday, March 6
Bibliophilia, Please
One Book at a Time
Susan Heim on Writing
Just One More Chapter
Romantic Historical Lovers
Blushing Divas Book Reviews
Devilishly Delicious Book Blog

Friday, March 7
I Read Indie
A Bookish Libraria
Historical Tapestry
Literary Chanteuse
CelticLady's Reviews
Magic Within the Pages
Confessions of an Avid Reader

Saturday, March 8
Book Nerd
MIBookshelf
Mina's Bookshelf
Between the Pages
Historical Fiction Obsession
Caffeinated Bookworm Reviews

Sunday, March 9
Rookie Romance 
A Dirty Book Affair
Passages to the Past
Caroline Wilson Writes
Book Obsessed Chicks
Love Romance Passion
Peeking Between the Pages

Giveaways

To enter to win one of the following prizes, please complete the Rafflecopter form below.

2 - Kindle Ebooks of THE FROST OF SPRINGTIME (open internationally)
1 - Signed Paperback of THE FROST OF SPRINGTIME (open to US residents only)
1 - $15 Amazon Gift Card (open to US residents only)

Giveaway will run from March 3-9. You must be 18 or older to enter.
Winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter on March 10 and notifiied via email.
Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.

a Rafflecoptergiveaway

MY REVIEW OF THE FROST OF SPRINGTIME BY

 RACHEL L. DEMETER

He saved her from  certain tragedy. Her own mother was selling her to a brothel. She was nothing more than a child, beaten and broken from abuse. Aleksender de Lefevre saved Sofia from that fate and nurtured her from the child to young woman. 

When he went off to war and was separated from her, she was much on his mind, as he was on hers, even when she heard he was dead, she held on to a hope it wasn't true. When Alek returns from war, alive and well, first he goes to see Sofia, who is elated he is alive, then he returns to his home, where his wife awaits. Oh yes... and so the drama continues.

Rachel L. Demeter is a brilliant writer, I was captivated by her description, by her knowledge of history. The politics of the time is very prevalent throughout The Frost of Springtime. The instability in the country, as well as the instability is Alek's life and of those around him. The forbidden love between Sofia and Alek is such a guilty pleasure, a draw to this story. I do believe the story had some excessive narrative, I found myself drifting and had to skim occasionally, but I always returned.  I am in awe that such an eloquent story comes to us from a debut author and I look forward to more from Rachel L. Demeter.

~KIMBERLY~