Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager -- Book Blast

Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager

Emme is a sophomore in high school who starts dating, Brendon Agretti, the popular senior who happens to be a senator’s son and well-known for his good looks. Emme feels out of her comfort zone in Brendon’s world and it doesn’t help that his picture perfect ex, Lauren seems determined to get back into his life along with every other girl who wants to be the future Mrs. Agretti. Emme is already conflicted due to the fact her last boyfriend cheated on her and her whole world is off kilter with her family issues. Life suddenly seems easier keeping Brendon away and relying on her crystals and horoscopes to guide her. Emme soon starts to realize she needs to focus less on the stars and more on her senses. Can Emme get over her insecurities and make her relationship work? Life sure is complicated when you’re dating the it guy.

Excerpt 

I took a drink of water, and it dribbled down my chin. Lovely—I was sure all the girls at the country club drooled openly. Brendon walked over to my side of the court and asked if he could have some of my water because he had finished his sports drink. I never share drinks since I saw a story on the news about how meningitis was spread through stuff like that, but I handed him the bottle. I was surprised he’d want to drink after me, but maybe he was a step away from dehydrating, and it was between sharing my spit or death.

“Wanna quit?” he asked. I nodded and went to change. There was only one other girl in the locker room as I washed up and pulled my hair up. I went out to meet Brendon, and he asked if I wanted to get some frozen yogurt. I started to answer when the girl in the locker room came out behind me.

“Hey, stranger. Haven’t seen you around lately,” she said, putting her hand on Brendon’s arm.

“Hey, Cassie,” he said.

“What have you been up to?” she asked.

I’ve seen dogs chase the mail carrier with more dignity. Brendon shrugged and said he had been busy. He introduced me, and her eyes darted over to me just long enough to size me up. I hated girls who acted like having another female in the room was competition.

“Well, give me a call sometime,” she said, walking away.

What was her problem? She didn’t know whether or not we were dating. It was like it didn’t matter if I was his girlfriend or not because I wasn’t “good enough.”

Praise for Dating the It Guy:

“Dating the It Guy is an entertaining story that is as absorbing as it is hilarious.” Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers’ Favorite

“A satisfying YA romance that is really about growing up and learning how to deal with life.” Writing Pearls book review blog

“There is so much to love about this book. Krysten Lindsay Hager knows how teens think and speak, and she understands why Emme would feel overwhelmed by everything about Brendon – his looks, his popularity, his feelings for her, his exes, his family.” Vox libris: the voice of books book review blog

Author Krysten Lyndsay Hager

Besides mining her teen years and humiliating moments for her novels, Krysten is also a book addict who has never met a bookstore she didn’t like. Krysten writes about friendship, self-esteem, fitting in, frenemies, crushes, fame, first loves, and values. She is the author of True Colors, Best Friends…Forever?, Next Door to a Star,  Landry in Like, Competing with the Star (The Star Series: Book 2), and Dating the It Guy. Her debut novel, True Colors, won the Readers Favorite award for best preteen book and the Dayton Book Expo Best Sellers award. Krysten’s work has been featured in USA Today, The Flint Journal, the Grand Haven Tribune, the Beavercreek Current, the Grand Blanc View, the Bellbrook Times and on Living Dayton.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Pinterest * Instagram

Ends 7/23/17

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Mormon Girl: Incognito by Kari Iroz

Mormon Girl: Incognito

Author: Kari Iroz

Publisher: Covenant

Published: June 1st, 2017

ISBN13: 9781524402730

Paperback: 288 pages

FYC FYI: I received a paperback copy, all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Goodreads Summary

Hilarious heroine Jacklyn Wyatt is back—this time in a dicey Vegas adventure! Jacklyn “Jack” Wyatt is just your average Mormon girl—other than her brief stint with the FBI, her subsequent brush with death, and her dreamy boyfriend, Special Agent Damon Wade. But in the eight months since she helped save a kidnapping victim, Jack’s life has returned to its mostly stagnant state. She’s still trapped in a dead-end job, and even her relationship seems to be stuck in a rut. These days, adventures are few and far between. So when Damon heads to Las Vegas on assignment, Jack sees the perfect opportunity to surprise her boyfriend and rekindle the spark in their relationship. But the surprise is on her: she has just landed herself in the middle of a high-stakes operation involving Russian criminals. Unwittingly drawn undercover once more, Jack is all too aware that the survival of Damon and his associates depends on the success of her charade. In the unfamiliar world of luxurious limos, exclusive nightclubs, and gambling, Jack must convince the high-rolling hustlers that she is a terrifying international arms dealer. If only she knew anything about poker. Or guns . . .

My Review

Mormon Girl: Incognito is another hit for this author. The book is so funny and it has the perfect balance and suspense and romance.  Jack, oh Jack, she is the best.  She is very enduring and her insecurities make her an all-around great character.  She really knows how to get the job done. Damon is so dreamy and love them together.  He is protective, kind and generally cares about Jack.  There are lots of enjoyable twists and turns and how the couple get out of the mess that Jack accidentally got them in. The author does a great job with the setting as well.  The scene with the "list" from her mother's warnings about Vegas, had me laughing out loud. The ending is amazing.

5 out of 5 stars. 

Author Links

Goodreads

Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Deseret Book / Seagull Book

Schedule: 

*June 19th: http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/

*June 20th: http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/

*June 21st: http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://rockinbookreviews.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, http://empowermoms.net/

*June 22nd: https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/

*June 23rd: http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

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Yesterday's Promise by Michele Paige Holmes -- Cover Reveal

I am excited to show you the new cover in the Hearthfire Series by Michele Paige Holmes.

YESTERDAY'S PROMISE

Release date: July 5, 2017

Goodreads link
Amazon pre-order link

Book description:

New from Michele Paige Holmes, Amazon’s bestselling historical romance author and Whitney Award Winner, comes the newest Hearthfire Historical Romance, YESTERDAY’S PROMISE.

In the Scottish Highlands, 1746:
Nineteen-year-old artist Katherine Mercer dreams of selling her paintings to help support her struggling family. Before she has the opportunity, Katherine learns she is to be sold—or practically so—given in marriage to a lord she has never met or even heard of. In return, a much-needed settlement will be made upon her mother. 

Katherine’s situation goes from frightening to surreal when her husband-to-be Laird Collin MacDonald arrives with an entourage of men, each heavily armed and speaking with a thick brogue. As if leaving all she knows behind and traveling to another country with strangers isn’t bad enough, Katherine soon discovers a Scottish heritage she knew nothing of, a brother-in-law who wants her dead, and far more at stake with her paintings than she had ever imagined. Forced to turn to her reclusive husband for answers, comfort, and even her very survival, Katherine begins to unravel the mysteries of her past and what it is to love and be loved.

Other Hearthfire Romances: 

SAVING GRACE
LOVING HELEN 
MARRYING CHRISTOPHER 
TWELVE DAYS IN DECEMBER
YESTERDAY’S PROMISE (Scottish Historical)
HEARTHFIRE ROMANCE COLLECTION, VOLUME 1 (box set)

Love on Pointe by Tiffany Odekirk

Love on Pointe

Author: Tiffany Odekirk

Publisher: Covenant

Published: June 1, 2017

ISBN13: 9781524402006

Paperback: 319 pages

FTC FYI: Received a paperback copy, all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Goodreads Summary

Rhys Solario has a secret—one he plans to keep: he's a non-Mormon attending Brigham Young University. With only two semesters left before graduation, he just wants to keep flying under the radar. Then he meets Emmy in a Book of Mormon class, and for the first time, the idea of keeping to himself doesn't sound so appealing.

Emmy Jennings feels confident only when she's dancing ballet. With every plié and chassé, all her worries fade away. But when she fails to earn a coveted solo, her confidence on the dance floor disintegrates, and the future she's worked so hard to earn stands in jeopardy.

Assigned to be study partners, both Rhys and Emmy face initial anxieties regarding who they really are. But slowly, their tentative friendship evolves into something more. Yet even as love deepens, the pair is faced with a disheartening truth: Rhys can't take Emmy to the temple, and the promise of eternity is not something Emmy's willing to give up. With everything on the line, the couple must decide if they're prepared to reshape their hearts—and their lives—for the promise of forever.

My Review

First of all, this cover!! Isn't is just gorgeous.  I really loved this book.  I was immediately taken with the characters. Rhys is a great guy and Emmy is such a sweet and caring soul.  I loved her vulnerable side, and I also loved how she was able to grow as well.  Rhys has a lot on his shoulders with his mother's health and he handles it well.  All characters were written well and weren't perfect, I appreciated that.  Emmy also has her own struggles.  I did feel Rhys's struggle in telling Emmy the truth and it was handled perfectly.  I also enjoyed the "definitions" at the beginning of each chapter.  Especially for non LDS who may read the book.  It was also a fun "preview" of what the chapters would be about.  

5 out of 5 stars.  I look forward to more books from this promising author.  

Author Links

Goodreads / Twitter


Purchase Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Deseret Book / Seagull Book

Schedule: 

*June 12th: http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://wishfulendings.com/

*June 13th: http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/

*June 14th: http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://rockinbookreviews.com/

*June 15th: http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/

*June 16th: http://fireandicereads.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

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Romancing Daphne by Sarah M. Eden -- Blog Tour

Romancing Daphne

Author: Sarah M. Eden

Publisher: Covenant

Published: June 1, 2017

ISBN13: 9781524402969

Paperback: 317 pages

FTC FYI: I received a paperback copy from publisher, all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Goodreads Summary

As her first London Season looms before her, the thought of the impending social whirl fills Daphne Lancaster's timid heart with dread. She hasn't her sisters beauty nor their talent for conversing easily. Even her family's enviable connections may not be enough to prevent disaster.

But Daphne's misery turns to surprised delight when the first event of her Season brings an unexpected visitor to her door—James Tilburn, whose tender kindness stole her heart in her youth. When the handsome young gentleman expresses his desire to court her, Daphne is elated. Their feelings for each other quickly grow, and it appears that, much to Daphne s disbelief, her happily ever after is within reach.

Yet nothing is as it seems. The couple finds themselves caught in a tangled web of greed and deceit, leaving James and Daphne to determine whether they are willing to risk everything for true love.

My Review

Romancing Daphne is perfect.  I loved that it was another story for the Lancaster family.  The first book I read of Sarah's was Courting Miss Lancaster, so I was thrilled to have another story with this enduring family.  Every time Adam was on the page, I smiled.  He stole the show for me, as he always does.  As did Linus.  There were so many clever and heartwarming moments.  I loved Daphne right from the start.  I loved her growth and how as her and James got to know each other her confidence grew.  James was wonderful too.  I loved all that was done to get the couple back together, it was very touching.  

5 out of 5 stars.  Sarah is a fantastic author, every time I read another book of hers it becomes my new favorite.    

Author Links

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

Purchase Links

Amazon / Deseret Book / Seagull Book

Schedule: 

*June 5th: http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/, http://www.kindleandme.com/, https://atransparentmom.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/,  http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/ 

*June 6th: http://seekingwithallyurheart.blogspot.com/, http://readingismysuperpower.org/, https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

*June 7th: http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/, http://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/

*June 8th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/

*June 9th: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://thethingsilovemost.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/, http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/, http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/

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The Fifth Doll by Charlie N. Holmberg

The Fifth Doll

Author: Charlie N. Holmberg

Publisher: 47North

Expected Publish Date: July 25, 2017

ISBN13: 978-1477806104

Paperback: 322 pages

FTC FYI: I received a pass-along ARC from the author, all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Summary:

After discovering a room full of matryoshka dolls wearing the faces of her village, a woman learns she may be trapped inside one--but unraveling the sorcery carved into each doll unleashes dark consequences that rip her from the only home she remembers.


My Review

The Fifth Doll is another excellent book by Charlie N. Holmberg. This was an intriguing world that she created and I loved how the story enfolds. Matrona is such a great character.  Her curiosity leads to trouble at first, but I loved her determination to not accept a certain fate.  There were so many things that had me guessing and I had a hard time putting the book down. Charlie does a great job of revealing the awesome twists and turns that kept the story moving perfectly. There were very cool surprises I was not expecting. Very well done!

5 out of 5 stars.  I can always count on this author for an adventurous, well-written book. 

Author Links

Website / Goodreads / Twitter 

Pre-order Link

Amazon

Onboard for Love by Cami Checketts -- Spotlight

Alicia Noir's ex-husband, Trav, has always valued his race car more than his family, just like her dad who died in his race car. When their eight-year old son pulls them into the cruise vacation of a lifetime, she has to find a way to resist Trav's charm, his well-formed chest, and especially his unending kindness. Will vacation reignite their love or is their romance destined to crash and burn for the final time?

The Billionaire Beach Romances are each stand-alone novels set in fun vacation spots. Don't miss the series:

Shadows in the Curtain
Caribbean Rescue
Cozumel Escape
Cancun Getaway
Onboard for Love


The Resilient One is FREE until June 9th for US and Canada residents. Happy reading!

I have had so much fun with these Billionaire Beach Romances. Onboard for Love is set on the same cruise ship that I was able to take my family on for my oldest son's last family trip. I hope you enjoy the escape as much as I did! And you won't even have to gain five pounds from eating too much yummy cruise food. Also, don't forget to enter to win the $100 gift card. Hugs, Cami


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Love, Kennedy -- Movie Spotlight

If you loved the movies 17 MIRACLES, EPHRAIM’S RESCUE and THE COKEVILLE MIRACLE, from T.C. Christensen you are in for a treat with his upcoming release LOVE, KENNEDY - in theaters throughout Utah on Friday, June 2.

A touching and inspiring story about Kennedy Hansen, a young girl who battled juvenile batten disease and the incredible legacy of love she left behind.

Movie Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c87oS53RZNc

Message from T.C. Christensen

I'm drawn to faith-based true stories. The life of Kennedy Hansen touched me when I was first introduced to her story. This beautiful young woman trusted God’s plan even when those around her questioned why Kennedy had to endure such trails. Before writing the script, I had the opportunity to read through hundreds of journal entries, with the turning of each page, I began to understand her personality. She was kind, compassionate, funny, teased, loved cheerleading, had faith, adored boys (especially Jaden), uplifted those around her, and had great family support including a funny little brother. We had the honor of filming Love, Kennedy in the Hansen’s home, the high school Kennedy attended, and other unique locations specific to her life. I hope when you see the movie that you are inspired by the warmth and love of Kennedy Hansen’s life.

Message from Jason Hansen (Kennedy’s dad)

In life, we all have a story.  Some stories are happy, some are sad, some are long and some are short.  It is human nature to treat our life as a story book full of different chapters that portray our lives.  Our family’s story began with a dream.  A dream that was given to me that all now makes sense.  In that dream, I was shown my family, my story and what was to come.  Unfortunately, part of our dream and a chapter in our life was losing our beloved Kennedy.  Yet, through losing her, we also gained her.  We gained her through so much more of understanding that when hard things come, you can be positive, you can be loving, understanding and provide an array of love to all of those around you.  Those hard things have proven to allow us to grow as a family and share.  Share the deepest parts of our souls and the hardest parts of our minds and hearts. 

Kennedy’s story could not just be shared by anyone, it needed to be shared by someone who would not be afraid to tell the truth about her life.  What really happened throughout her life and what she really believed.  T.C. Christensen is that someone.  He took to heart the rawness, reality and true life story of Kennedy, our family and the experiences that we endured.  He spent time reading, pondering, questioning and asking.  He did nothing hasty, yet everything perfectly.  He wanted to make sure, that if he was going to tell her story, that the most important parts were shared.  And guess what?  He did that! 

When you see the film, you will see our Kennedy and know the kind of person she was. She loved boys (especially Jaden). She loved her family.  All of us, just not one or two of us.  The movie shows the special relationship that she has with each one of her family members. She loved cheerleading and music and always dreamed of being normal.  And lastly, she loved her Savior and Heavenly Father with perfect faith which in turn allowed her to love EVERYONE whom she met. 

Clip from the Movie: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9kRn5XHRuY

Film Synopsis:

LOVE, KENNEDY tells the inspirational true story of Kennedy Hansen, a funny, loving young woman whose health suddenly begins to fail. It takes years to find the cause – Juvenile Batten Disease – an extremely rare, horrible and inevitably terminal diagnosis. After living only 16 short years, Kennedy leaves behind an incredible legacy of love and friendship. But her story doesn’t end with her passing, it’s only then the true miracles really begin.