Book Blitz, Review & Giveaway: Love in B Minor by Elodie Nowodazkij

Love in B Minor
Elodie Nowodazkij
(Broken Dreams #3)
Publication date: March 15th 2016
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

No promises. No fake tomorrows. That was the plan.
New city. New life. At least, that’s what nineteen-year-old Jen Harrison believes. On the surface, she’s living her dream: dancing in a prestigious dance company in Paris. But her sister’s death and the mistakes she’s tried to bury haunt her. She’s become a pro at hiding who she truly is, and she definitely doesn’t want a guy to derail her, but a one night-stand she can do. Nothing more. She definitely doesn’t plan to see the sexy stranger who made her laugh for the first time in years ever again.
Girls don’t walk away from Lucas Wills. Bad boy turned rock star, he’s got his share of groupies. Always upfront, he doesn’t promise fake tomorrows because love can destroy everything. Been there, done that. His ex not only lied to him, she stomped on his heart, used him to become famous, and almost ruined him. So, waking up alone after a night beyond his wildest imagination with a girl he just met shouldn’t upset him, shouldn’t inspire one of the saddest songs he’s ever written, shouldn’t make him want to chase after her.
When Jen, the one-night stand who got away, auditions to be a dancer in Lucas’ next music video, they can’t stop their growing attraction. But Jen’s secrets and his ex could shatter the careers they tried so hard to build and their hearts…they will have to decide what’s more important and if love is worth the fight.
Love in B Minor is the third standalone novel in Elodie Nowodazkij’s Broken Dreams series.

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EXCERPT:

And his laughter booms in the quiet night. And seeing him laugh makes me want to smile right along with him. And I want to hold on to that feeling a bit longer. One of my hands slowly reaches out and my fingers trail down his cheek while my other hand falls on his knee. He stops laughing. His gaze turns hungry.
“I’m not really thirsty anymore,” I whisper. Our eyes lock. The tension crackling between us gets even more intense. He leans in and I hold my breath. We’re lost in the moment, in the anticipation, in that one second. That one second before a first kiss. I bridge the tiny distance between us and when our lips meet, I breathe again.
His lips are strong and soft.
My body melts into his despite the layers. One of his hands caresses my back and I press myself against him, wishing I could feel his skin against mine. His tongue slips inside my mouth, teasing mine into a playful dance. His other hand cups my face and I could stay like this forever. But I want more. And what I have in mind probably shouldn’t happen outside.
We might get arrested.
But I don’t want to end the night here and now.
I don’t want this night to end at all.

 

MY REVIEW

I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I absolutely loved the setting of this book. I’ve been to Germany and lived vicariously through my husband and his trips to Europe with high school kids. (One day I will make it myself to see more of Europe.) History was never my best subject in school. Yet this book made me want to go look up the history of Paris (and hopefully continue on to other areas fro there).

I was concerned for Jen at the start of the book and the situation she put herself in. But thankfully Lucas came to the rescue. I admire Jen for having the nerve to move across the world and live out her dreams.

Both Jen and Lucas have had a lot of heartache in their recent pasts and struggle with trust issues. They both agree to explore each other for one night. But circumstances bring them together for so much more.

I enjoyed the look into the rockstar life and the making of a music video as well as the look into the life in a ballet company. I’ve read the prequel to the Broken Dreams series and enjoyed it. I didn’t realize that this book was part of that series. So obviously it can be read as a standalone. But now that I’ve read Love in B Minor, I definitely want to go back and read the other books in this series.

I really enjoyed Jen & Lucas’s relationship. They have some creative “dates” not the usual dinner and a movie. There are some other side characters in the story that I wouldn’t mind learning more about.

The book takes a couple of turns that surprised the heck out of me. They were good surprises and I liked the way it turned out. This book also has me thinking that I maybe should try to catch a ballet sometime.  I absolutely loved this book and would totally recommend it to anyone who likes new adult romance.

Author Bio:
Elodie Nowodazkij was raised in a tiny village in France, where she could always be found a book in hand. At nineteen, she moved to the US, where she learned she'd never lose her French accent. Now she lives in Maryland with her husband, their dog and their cat.
She's also a serial smiley user.

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Review: The Muse & The Fairy Tale by Mary Smith

The Muse and the Fairy Tale by Mary Smith

Release Date: February 2, 2016

Genres: New Adult, Romance

Source: E-Book, ARC

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Goodreads Description:

Meadow Hylton has held onto the dream of Prince Charming sweeping into her life and falling madly in love with her. Until it happens, she fulfills her fantasy by writing sports romance books. However, that love has been hit with a bout of writer's block. A new muse on social media helps diminish that block quickly.


Kyson Wick is a newly traded player to the New Hampshire Bears, and he’s thankful for the change. His goal is to be the best hockey player and forget the ex-girlfriend who broke his heart. He’s also hoping a new venture with an author looking for a new cover model is the distraction he needs.


Soon, the chemistry between Kyson and Meadow begins to grow. But when their dreams collide, will the muse be able to fulfill the fairytale?

Notes about the book:

This is the first of Mary Smith's that I've read and I will definitely be reading more of her books. I've read several of her co-authored books with Lindsay Paige.  I did receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This books is not meant for anyone under 18 as it does contain mild sex scenes.

Book Quote:

“Meadow, I’m not leaving you. I can’t promise you I’ll turn into Edward Cullen and live forever, but I’m down for tearing this headboard up right now.”

My Review

The only thing keeping me from reading this book in one day was the fact that I had to work the next day.  The writing flowed so well and was entertaining enough that if I had nothing else to do, I could have read it in one sitting.

I enjoyed seeing some of the behind the scenes moments of being an author. The female main character, Meadow, is honest about the pitfalls of being a full-time author. "The downside of being an at-home writer: I never left home."  Although some days in my hectic life this would seem like a dream come true. Then we also get to hear about how she finds her book ideas. "I did go to the gym, but it was mainly to check out hot guys and see what might fit into my current storyline." I'm sure all women (and men??) would admit to doing this at some point or other.

I've always liked when the reader was given a view into the chats that two romantic characters hold before the romance begins. This book employs the use of Facebook chat and again I enjoyed the chatter back and forth. I liked that Meadow and Kyson teased each other good naturedly from the start of their Facebook chats.

I chuckled, wanting to rile her up a bit and see what she was really like.
"Will I be showing my dick on the cover?"
"Good Lord, no! It’s not porn. It’s a book cover."
"According to some reviews, you write some steamy scenes."
"This is true, but that isn’t on the cover. Well, not a lot of it anyway."

Meadow and Kyson's relationship is started as a business endeavor and continues when that is over. Things start out sweet and quickly escalate to HOT. But of course there always has to be someone or thing that throws a wrench into the relationship. For this book, it's someone that is easily hate-able. It's kind of like one of those stupid horror movies where you wish you could just reach into the TV/movie screen and stop the characters from doing some stupid thing that puts them right in harms way. In this book, you know exactly what things need to be avoided and of course they aren't. But how could there not be a happy ending with this kind of title?

There are other side characters that I loved and I hope maybe they'll one day get their own book. Meodow's book editor Harlow would be my first choice. I absolutely loved her! We all need a friend like her in our lives.

I definitely recommend this book to anyone needing a good romance with a Happily Ever After!

Review: Hopeless by Colleen Hoover

Hopeless (Hopeless #1) by Colleen Hoover

Release Date: December 19, 2012

Genres: New Adult, Romance

Pages:410

Source: E-Book

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Goodreads Description:

Sometimes discovering the truth can leave you more hopeless than believing the lies…

That’s what seventeen-year-old Sky realizes after she meets Dean Holder. A guy with a reputation that rivals her own and an uncanny ability to invoke feelings in her she’s never had before. He terrifies her and captivates her all in the span of just one encounter, and something about the way he makes her feel sparks buried memories from a past that she wishes could just stay buried.

Sky struggles to keep him at a distance knowing he’s nothing but trouble, but Holder insists on learning everything about her. After finally caving to his unwavering pursuit, Sky soon finds that Holder isn’t at all who he’s been claiming to be. When the secrets he’s been keeping are finally revealed, every single facet of Sky’s life will change forever.

Notes about the book:

This is the first book in a two-book series. I found it difficult to label the genre for this book. The main characters are high school students - one 18 and the other soon-to -be 18. However, they do have sex. So i wasn't sure if it would be Young Adult or New Adult since sex is involved.

Book Quote:

Ok, I couldn't just pick one quote.
Quote #1
If I have to read this shit every day, the least they could do is make it interesting. If I was going to stoop so low as to leave an unfounded note on someone’s locker, I’d at least have the courtesy of entertaining whoever reads it in the process. I’d write something interesting like, “I saw you in bed with my boyfriend last night. I really don’t appreciate you getting massage oil on my cucumbers. Whore."
Rather than rip the sticky notes off of my locker like I probably should, I take out my pen and make them a little more creative.
Quote #2

Holder gives him a half smile, but he’s staring at the coffee cup on Breckin’s desk. “I thought Mormon’s weren’t allowed to have caffeine.”

Breckin shrugs. “I decided to break that rule the morning I woke up gay.”
Quote #3
You’re the only guy I’ve ever had the urge to lick.” He smiles at me confidently. “Good. Because you’re the only girl I’ve ever had the urge to love.” Holy shit

My Review

At the very beginning of this book, I wasn't too sure about it. It starts out with Sky making out with a boy she obviously doesn't like. I was thinking "This isn't the sort of girl I want to read about." But that is so not what the book is about. Once you get past those first few pages and learn who Sky really is, it becomes an un-put-downable book. Although, with the length of the book you'd either have to be a speed-reader or stay up all night reading. I, unfortunately, am not a speed reader nor able to stay up all night reading. Therefore, I had to squeeze chapters in when I could.

Sky is a refreshing female main character. She doesn't let the little things bother her as witnessed in quote #1 above. She is loyal and loves fiercely. She's also been forced to live a sheltered life and is attending public school for the first time. This makes for some funny situations such as the time when she received a text with the letters "LOL" -- "Lol? What the hell does that mean? Lots of love? Oh, God, that better not be it. He’ll be out the door faster than Matty-boy. But really, what the hell does it mean?". Sorry, I couldn't resist throwing in another quote. The book is just full of so many good quotes.

Dean Holder, known as Holder to his friends, starts off a little stalkerishy but turns into a swoon-worthy young man. From Sky's and Holder's first meeting, I had an inkling that there was some history there. It's latter reinforced with Holder's actions. However, the details aren't revealed until much later in the book.

I have to say that the events of the book did surprise me some. I had my thoughts about what was going to happen. The actual events were along the lines of what I was thinking, but turned into so much more. Its such a sad story, but I loved the way Hoover resolved the issues. 

I also loved Hoover's writing style. At one point there is a kiss scene that seems to go on for pages. It was at this point that I realized Hoover was able to describe what was happening so well that it wasn't necessary to write "Next we did ABC. Then we did XYZ." I don't know that I can convey in words my exact meaning, but she has such a fluid and descriptive writing style that I just fell in love with this book. 

I'm thinking of being stalkerish and devouring all of her books I can get my hands on this year.

Review: Without A Doubt by Lindsay Paige

Without A Doubt by Lindsay Paige

Release Date: December 18, 2015

Genres: New Adult, Romance

Pages: 336

Source: Signed Paperback, ARC

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Goodreads Description:

Emerson Montgomery loves his high school sweetheart, Kelly Price. He'd do anything for her, including agreeing to a break where they'll see other people as he heads off to college. Struggling with the break and guilt over dating other people, Emerson meets Eva, a beautiful, funny, easygoing, and nosey junior.

Eva Harvey chose this particular college with the hopes of fulfilling her own fairytale and falling in love at the same college where her parents met. She does her best to go with the flow and simply see what happens, but Emerson simultaneously causes her to fall in love while making her second guess everything along the way.

There's some things you know without a doubt. However, Eva causes Emerson to doubt everything he believes about his future while he causes her to doubt what's right in front of her. Can they find a way to erase all doubts or will it tear them apart in the process?

Notes about the book:

I won this book in a contest Lindsay held and told her I would read it and review it. My review is not affected by being gifted the book.

This books is not meant for anyone under 18 as it does contain mild sex scenes as well as short violent scene.

Book Quote:

Quote #1

“I don't know you,” she tries again. "What if I want to take your picture and send your name and info to my best friend and my cousin in case I'm found murdered? You have motive." She thumbs back to my mildly damaged truck bed.

"Then take the picture, send your text, and get in."

Quote #2

"My head is still swimming from my time with Eva......It's  as if I went skydiving and I'm still high from the adrenaline rush."

My Review

I have to admit that when I first heard about this book I was concerned about the two love interests and that it would turn into a love triangle. I usually greatly dislike love triangles because I often find that I can't decide between the guys/girls. However, this is not a love triangle and I was happy with how the storyline was handled with the two girls. Hopefully, that's not a spoiler for you all.

I also want to discuss the breaking up before college thing. I have some recent experience with this and reflected on my personal experiences as I was reading about Emerson & Kelly's breakup. Before this last year, I probably would have been whole-heartedly on board with breaking up before going away to college to avoid a long distance relationship. Here's where my personal experience has made me rethink this. My daughter started college at a school two states and 7 hours from home. She was lucky to "meet" a fellow Arkansas online and select her as her roommate. However, her first semester of college has not been the flurry of new friendships as I'd hoped. This isn't from her lack of trying. She's joined clubs and even attended a football watch party when she severely dislikes football. Her boyfriend of 2 years remained at home and they remained boyfriend & girlfriend. I'm thankful she had this relationship to fall back. I'm sure they have talked/skyped or whatever they do these days and he's always seemed to know what to say to her to make her feel better - much more than I have. I'd like to think she'd come to her parents when things were bothering her, but I'm realistic and know this isn't always the case.

Sorry, I just really wanted to show how feelings can change. This also is the case for Without A Doubt. I can't go into details without spoiling the plot line. But there are things happening here that you're not aware of. At one point in the book, I did veer in the direction the book went. But my version was a little different.

I saw another review label Emerson as swoon-worthy. Oh, how accurate this title is! He has a southern boy charm to him. He walks Eva to her dorm room and doesn't just drop her at the curb.

I think I will try listing some things I like about the characters and the book in general.

WARNING: THIS SECTION BELOW CONTAINS MILD SPOILERS

Ok, you've been warned.
I like that Emerson chooses activities that are unique and are things Eva will like. It's just not the usual movie & dinner.
I like the instant camaraderie between Emerson & Eva. From their first meeting they are teasing each other back and forth.
I LOVE that Emerson appears to adore Eva - "her eyes were breathtaking" "her lips force the air from my lungs"
I like that Eva is nosy and takes control of the truck windows/radio (even though this drives me crazy when my husband does this while I'm driving)
I like that Emerson and Eva keep a running list of adjectives for each other
I like that Emerson visits Eva at work
I like that Emerson is honest with Evan about Kelly when it's important
I LOVE that Eva loves surprises (I do too)
I LOVE that Eva roots for the football team with the cute quarterback.
I also like that she understands the game well enough to know what the loosing team needs to do to win. (I couldn't do that)

SPOILERS DONE

I could go on and on. I just love this couple! This is the type of relationship every woman (if you're anything like me) dreams to be a part of. This is the type of couple that you long to catchup with to find out what is new in their lives. They feel like your friends.

This book is a must read for any die-hard romance fan!

Check out Lindsay's website to read excerpts from the book at http://authorlindsaypaige.blogspot.com/. Or you can also connect with her at her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/authorlindsaypaige/?fref=nf. She's posted teasers at both locations.

I'm currently hosting two giveaways from Lindsay. Be sure to enter!

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Review: Hector by Lindsay Paige and Mary Smith

Hector (The Ninth Inning #3) by Lindsay Paige and Mary Smith

Release Date: November 25, 2015

Genres: New Adult, Romance

Pages: 214

Source: E-Book, ARC

My Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Goodreads Description:

The Ninth Inning series presents Memphis Angels’ first baseman, Hector Rodriguez.

Hector Rodriguez is an easy going guy, the one who tries to make everyone laugh or smile on the hard days. He loves playing baseball, loves his family, and loves chasing the girl who has caught his eye. His two biggest obstacles are getting the girl to give him the time of day and then getting his mother to look past what she sees on the surface.

Zoey Reyes is use to people staring at her because of the tattoos covering her body, but the big tipper who has been begging for her name for two months is the only one who looks at her differently. Once Hector wears her down and finds out her name, she realizes why he is so likeable. However, it’s one battle after another for their friendship to grow and Zoey’s not sure how much stress she can handle.

Hector and Zoey are making the right plays, but will it be enough for them to come out with a big win?

Notes about the book:

This is the third book in a two-part series. The series is split into seasons. I would say that the books could be read as stand-alones. Although, reading them all helps you to get all the background information.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Book Quote:

I couldn't just post one quote. But I did narrow it down from five to two. :) 

Quote #1

What person in their right mind forgets everything when a guy, and an overbearing guy at that, simply looks at you?

 

Quote #2

“As long as you realize that while messing up may be inevitable, so is making up. I’m not going anywhere ever. I’ll chase you for the rest of my life if I need to, and we both know I won’t mind doing that. Things with us wouldn’t have been affected my mother either. It would have bothered me, yeah, but nothing in my life has ever felt as right as loving you. I wouldn’t give that up, not for anyone.”

  My Review 

I’ve read several of Lindsay’s books along with the other two books in this series. This is one of my favorites! It is definitely my favorite in this series so far. I fell in love with Hector along with Zoey. I’m not one to use terms like “book boyfriend”, but I did in a message to Lindsay after finishing this book. As the book progressed, I found myself hanging on Hector’s every word. He was such a sweet, kind and caring man.

After just two sentences into the book, I knew that I liked Zoey. She was a "starving" artist and was her toughest critic. She had a way with words that makes you chuckle. Here are two examples of her snarkiness. "This [a painting she's finished] looks like dog crap with a hint of red streaks" and "...
but the painting isn’t even worthy of wall in an outhouse." However, her aunts and Hector are much more open to her greatness as an artist.

We are able to catchup slightly with Felix and Blake throughout the book. But we are also introduced to other players on the Memphis Angels baseball team.

Hector fell in love with Zoey even before he knew her name. Zoey was more reluctant and made him wait before revealing her name and even then it was inadvertently.Both Hector and Zoey are stubborn in their own ways.

The saying opposites attract fits Hector and Zoey to a T. They are from different worlds. Zoey is scared by their differences. But Hector knows she’s the one for him. Unfortunately, Hector’s mother refuses to accept that Zoey is the girl for him. This causes tension between Hector and his mother as well as between Hector and Zoey.

Then there’s the Ending. Yes, I am making that a capital E Ending. Aww, Lindsay and Mary have killed me with this ending. It’s not really a cliffhanger. It just ended in a way I wasn’t expecting. I was all wrapped up in the pretty package of Hector & Zoey's new romance and wondering what would happen with them next. Then a new ball is thrown into the mix and knocked me for a loop. I can only hope they chose to end it this way because they have thoughts of continuing Hector and Zoey’s story.

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