Blood Oath ~ Review with Excerpt

Blood Oath
The Seaward Isle Saga 3
By Joni Parker

Alex has a new mission a Blood Oath put on her by her elf cousin Prince Darin after Mellen's failed attempt on his life.  An attempt that would have succeeded if not for Alex and her abilty to hear Mellen's Elfspeak conversations.  Whether she wants to or not Alex must track down this danger to the Isle and kill him.

But tracking Mellen is dangeous as he has the ability to summon Shadows to either do battle for him or to enter him - strengthening him.  And he can also attack with a misuse of a Cranial thrust which can kill.

But Alex's quest for Mellen's death is constantly being diverted as the pirates attack and traitors within threaten thee stability of the kingdoms.  But Mellen is at the heart of all the unrest. Will Alex survive or will she finally fall to Mellen or her enemies?

I have to say I would not want to visit Seaward Isle.  The majority of the human men are major jerks. Though it was pleasant to see Alex's brother Beren actually turn into a decent human being who really seemed to care for his little sister.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author through PUYB in exchange for my honest review and blog tour participation.

*Please note that this book may contain subject/language that may be offensive to some readers (PG+). The sneak peek that online retailers offer will not show these scenes.

About the Author:

Joni Parker was born in Chicago, Illinois, but left the windy city at an early age when her family moved to Japan. Upon return to the United States, her family moved to Phoenix, Arizona where she graduated from Camelback High School and began college. However within months, Joni quit college and joined the Navy where she became a Photographer’s Mate. After 3 years in the Navy, she returned to college and got married. She got a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and an MBA before she returned to the Navy. As a Commissioned Officer, Joni attended the US Army Command and General Staff College, completing a Master of Military Arts and Sciences Degree. She retired from the Navy with over 22 years of service and spent several years traveling the United States in a motorhome with her husband. When he died unexpectedly, Joni returned to work for the federal government in a civil service job. Five years ago, she started writing and retired once more to devote more time to her new passion. She currently lives in Texas.

Her latest fantasy books are The Black Elf of Seaward Isle, Tangled Omens and
Blood Mission.

For More Information
• Visit Joni Parker’s website.
• Connect with Joni on Facebook and Twitter.
• Find out more about Joni at Goodreads.
• Contact Joni.

About the Book:
Title: Blood Oaths
Author: Joni Parker
Publisher: Village Green Press, LLC
Pages: 323
Genre: Fantasy/Action Adventure
Format: Paperback/Kindle

While on leave from the army, Alex visits her cousin, Prince Darin of the Water
Elves, and arrives in time to thwart an assassination attempt ordered by the
rogue Elf Mellen. Although weakened by poison, the Prince assigns Alex a
Blood Mission to kill Mellen. However, Alex finds the Elf elusive as he organizes
and trains his pirates to take over the harbor at Agana, the best deep water
port on the island.

At the same time, Alex must deal with Colonel Jeffrey, a handsome young
man determined to marry her for her inheritance. Alex rejects his advances
and faces his wrath, becoming the target of several murderous plots.
Unfortunately, her path to success includes Colonel Jeffrey as she needs him
and his soldiers to stop the Elf Mellen before he takes over and destroys the
fragile civilization on the island.


For More Information
• Blood Oath is available at Amazon.
• Watch the book trailer at YouTube.
• Discuss this book at PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads.

Book Excerpt:

After she left Colonel Penser, Alex marched up to Major Jonnbo's
bedroom and knocked on the door. When he didn't answer the door, she
pounded on it harder and shouted at him.

"It's too early." Major Jonnbo yawned. "Come on in, Alex."

"Colonel Penser wants to talk to us."

"I'll get dressed." He sat up in bed, yawning and rubbed his head.

He stretched his arms and stood up. "So, what's going on?" He opened the
wardrobe, grabbing some clean clothes.

"The Commandant gave me a new mission to kill the Elf Mellen. Isn't it a
little late to be sleeping?" Alex turned around while he put his clothes on.

"That Elf again? You're an Elf, aren't you? You can use your Elfness and
locate him that way, can't you? I don't know much about them." He put on his

"Elfness?" Alex wrinkled her brow.

"You know, Elf stuff. Weird stuff."

"I'm not very good at that. I don't know how to do it like the Elves, but I
can hear what they say when they Elfspeak."

"What is that Elfspeak stuff anyway?"

"They can talk to each other with their thoughts. It sounds just like a
normal conversation, but it's private. They just don't know I can hear them.
It's a little weird. I'm still learning how to use it."

"When did the Commandant get here?"

"He's not here--I saw him at the Regiment before I left." Alex pointed
over her shoulder with her thumb. "I think he wants to see me dead."

"It's his job to assign tough missions to the best tracker, Alex. And that's
you. Let's go." Major Jonnbo pushed her out the door.

Tangled Omens ~ Review with Excerpt

Tangled Omens
The Seaward Isle Saga 2
By Joni Parker

Alex has a new mission - tracking the traitor within the kingdom who is aiding the pirates.  Her ability to listen in on Mellen's Elfspeak has allowed her to discover someone known as the Horseman is helping the pirates to escape from the king's forces and to terrorize those living and working along the coastal regions.

But tracking anyone aligned with Mellen is dangeous as he has the ability to summon Shadows to either do battle for him or to enter him - strengthening him.

Using her brother Beren's upcoming participation in the Southport Sword Tournament as a cover Alex determines to uncover this danger that has found its way into the kingdom.  Little realizing that the treachery runs deeper than anyone could imagine.

Trust is something that is hard to give as many around her give her cause to doubt their loyalty, but the Scinthians have never given her a reason to doubt or mistrust them.  And it is with the Scinthians that Alex feels most at home.  With the aid of these women Alex may succeed in finding and stopping the Horseman - if she can survive the threats against her life.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author through PUYB in exchange for my honest review and blog tour participation.

*Please note that this book may contain subject/language that may be offensive to some readers (PG+). The sneak peek that online retailers offer will not show these scenes.

About the Author:

Joni Parker was born in Chicago, Illinois, but left the windy city at an early age when her family moved to Japan. Upon return to the United States, her family moved to Phoenix, Arizona where she graduated from Camelback High School and began college. However within months, Joni quit college and joined the Navy where she became a Photographer’s Mate. After 3 years in the Navy, she returned to college and got married. She got a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and an MBA before she returned to the Navy. As a Commissioned Officer, Joni attended the US Army Command and General Staff College, completing a Master of Military Arts and Sciences Degree. She retired from the Navy with over 22 years of service and spent several years traveling the United States in a motorhome with her husband. When he died unexpectedly, Joni returned to work for the federal government in a civil service job. Five years ago, she started writing and retired once more to devote more time to her new passion. She currently lives in Texas.

Her latest fantasy books are The Black Elf of Seaward Isle, Tangled Omens and
Blood Mission.

For More Information
• Visit Joni Parker’s website.
• Connect with Joni on Facebook and Twitter.
• Find out more about Joni at Goodreads.
• Contact Joni.

About the Book:
Title: Tangled Omens
Author: Joni Parker
Publisher: Village Green Press, LLC
Pages: 320
Genre: Fantasy/Action Adventure
Format: Paperback/Kindle

Alex, now an experienced soldier and proven tracker, goes undercover to
learn the fate of a pirate leader. As she conducts her investigation in the
market, she has her fortune read by the famous Witches of Winden, renown
fortunetellers. Unimpressed, she’s about to leave when a man barges into the
tent demanding his fortune be read. Alex observes and notices similarities
to hers--their omens seem entangled, but she dismisses it as coincidence.
However, she learns that he’s the Horseman, the most dangerous pirate spy
on Seaward Isle and wanted for treason by her King. Although she attempts to
follow him, he sails away on a ship.

When she returns home, she reports the incident to Governor Tyrone who tasks
her to find and kill him or die trying, her first tracker mission. Although she
doesn’t know his real name, she’s the only one who can recognize him. His
trail leads her north, deep into the pirate stronghold of Riverton, her first solo
mission.


For More Information
• The Black Elf of Seaward Isle is available at Amazon.
• Pick up your copy at Barnes and Noble.
• Watch the book trailer at YouTube.
• Discuss this book at PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads.

Book Excerpt:

By the time Alex got to the street, he was a block ahead of her. She saw
him trot up to a large house with a lot of carriages and people in front. Two
girls from Mistress Clarisse's house passed by in long elegant dresses, holding
the arms of handsome young men who wore black top hats. They smiled and
laughed at her as they strutted by. One of the girls turned back to Alex and
giggled. Alex realized they were laughing at her. She stared at her clothes and
wondered if she should go back to change into a dress, but she returned her
attention to her quarry. Where did he go?

Alex had lost sight of the Horseman in the crowd, but soon noticed him
at the entrance of the house where he was greeted and welcomed. She stood
in place, uncertain what to do next.

A man grabbed her arm and put his horse's reins in her hand. "Take care
of my horse, will you?" He put a coin in her hand and rushed off towards the
house.

Alex stared at the horse and didn't know what to do with it. On the
other side of the street, Noel had another horse so she pulled it over to him.
"Noel!"

"Where did you get that horse?"

"I was just standing on the street watching everyone, and a man put his
reins in my hand and asked me to take care of him. He must have thought I
was a stable boy. I don't know what to do with him." She petted the horse on
the nose.

"I'll take him. Let me this one in and come back." Noel laughed.

When he returned, Alex gave him the horse. "Here you should have this,
too." She gave him the brassie the man had given her.

"Thanks," he said. "If you want to earn a brassie, go up to the kitchen,
and help them. They need extra help tonight."

"I think I will. Where do I go?"

Noel pointed to the open door at the back of the large house. "The
Governor's celebrating his new home. All the rich people are here."

The Black Elf of Seaward Isle ~ Review with Excerpt

The Black Elf of Seaward Isle
The Seaward Isle Saga 1
By Joni Parker

At 4 years of age Lady Alexin is unique.  Her parents have just been murdered and she is being transported to a safe haven.  But when she and her protectors are attacked she displays a unique ability which saves their lives.

Five years later Alex finds herself embarking on a new adventure one that will take her far from what she knows.  Adopted by a Scinthian Scout, an Amazon who trains her in the ways of the Amazon warriors.  At the same time she learns about dwarves and their language from her adoptive mother's traveling companion. This knowledge will aid her when four years later she is returned to her home in Nyla.

Pirates are terrorizing the coastal regions of Seaward and warriors are needed - Alex's skills not only make her a logical choice in-spite of her youth but result in her being a soldier and a trainer.

When the evil that chased her from her home and family suddenly reappears Alex must draw on her unique skills to again save the life of the man that saved her as a child.  Alex's unique heritage Human, Water Elf, and Titan has made her different than anyone the Seaward Isle has ever known other than her Titan grandfather.

The Black Elf of Seaward Isle will delight fans of fantasy and those who like threads of mythology running throughout their stories.  This is a world that is a mix of the modern with the past in a hidden isle that shouldn't exist and doesn't as far as those who don't live there are concerned.

I was provided a copy of this book by the author through PUYB in exchange for my honest review and tour participation.

*Please note that this book may contain subject/language that may be offensive to some readers (PG+). The sneak peek that online retailers offer will not show these scenes.

About the Author:

Joni Parker was born in Chicago, Illinois, but left the windy city at an early age when her family moved to Japan. Upon return to the United States, her family moved to Phoenix, Arizona where she graduated from Camelback High School and began college. However within months, Joni quit college and joined the Navy where she became a Photographer’s Mate. After 3 years in the Navy, she returned to college and got married. She got a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and an MBA before she returned to the Navy. As a Commissioned Officer, Joni attended the US Army Command and General Staff College, completing a Master of Military Arts and Sciences Degree. She retired from the Navy with over 22 years of service and spent several years traveling the United States in a motorhome with her husband. When he died unexpectedly, Joni returned to work for the federal government in a civil service job. Five years ago, she started writing and retired once more to devote more time to her new passion. She currently lives in Texas.

Her latest fantasy books are The Black Elf of Seaward Isle, Tangled Omens and
Blood Mission.

For More Information
• Visit Joni Parker’s website.
• Connect with Joni on Facebook and Twitter.
• Find out more about Joni at Goodreads.
• Contact Joni.

About the Book:
Title: The Black Elf of Seaward Isle
Author: Joni Parker
Publisher: Village Green Press, LLC
Pages: 330
Genre: Fantasy/Action Adventure
Format: Paperback/Kindle

On the mysterious Seaward Isle, Alex, the young daughter of Count Dumwalt,
escapes Wizard Mylar’s attack on her father’s fortress with the help of two
men, Hamlin and Tyrone, who take her to her brother in the village of Nyla.
Disguised as a boy to stay at the Sword Academy with her brother, she learns of
the death of her parents and vows to avenge their deaths. At the same time,
a witch on the far side of the island predicts the rise of the Black Elf, the only
person with the power to kill a wizard.

Meanwhile, Alex’s stay at the academy is cut short when the headmistress
arranges her adoption by a Scinthian Scout, an Amazon warrior and her Dwarf
companion. When her adoptive mother is killed in a pirate attack, Alex returns
home to Nyla where Tyrone, now the Governor, takes her in as his ward as he
accepts a cadre of Scinthian soldiers for training to restore their decimated
Army. Since Alex can speak their language, she becomes a training liaison,
leading to her selection as an elite soldier and assassin known as a tracker.
Her first mission succeeds beyond all expectations and results in her selection
as a training officer for the Scinthians, still involved in an extensive training
program.

Upon assignment to a remote border outpost, Alex discovers evidence of foul
play—eight missing soldiers. As she attempts to uncover the mystery, she
meets with resistance and skepticism, but she leads a mission to save them.
As she basks in her glory, the wizard shows up to seek revenge on Governor
Tyrone, forcing Alex to intervene.

For More Information
• The Black Elf of Seaward Isle is available at Amazon.
• Pick up your copy at Barnes and Noble.
• Watch the book trailer at YouTube.
• Discuss this book at PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads.

Book Excerpt:

They arrived at the Governor's house and were shown to his large parlor. When
the Governor appeared, they saluted him, and he, in turn, saluted back. He
wrapped his arms around Alex and gave her a big warm hug.

"How are you, Alex?"

"I'm doing well, Governor. It's good to see you. You're looking well."

"I am well. Have you seen your brother recently?"

"Not recently. A few months ago, he challenged me to a sword match,
and when I beat him fairly, he accused me of cheating. He told me that I
wasn't his sister anymore, and he wished I had never returned."

Tyrone was dismayed by this news. "Well, I shall speak to him and
explain that he can't disown his own sister, even if she beats him at swords.
Now, for the business at hand, Alex, I want you to accompany me on a trip
next month. We'll go to Agana and visit Agamon, the King, and his brother,
Pashamon, in Pashkina. This will be an official visit where we'll represent the
Kingdom of Northeast Forest and our King, Lord Ellsworth. You'll be listed as
my thirteen-year-old ward, Lady Alexin."

"I'm fourteen," Alex said.

"When did that happen?" He stared at her.

"At the spring solstice a few weeks ago."

"Well, happy birthday. You should have said something. At any rate,
this will provide you an opportunity to visit another land, but you'll also aid me
as a secretary. I'll need help in recording the visit, keeping the itinerary, and
so on. In addition, you'll aid with security. Major Dano will be my security
advisor. I believe he's a friend of Major Jonnbo's. True, Major?"

"Yes, Governor." He bowed his head slightly. "I know him well."

"Major Dano is expecting you, and he'll explain the trip in greater detail.

Alex glanced at Colonel Penser in distress. "Can Mistress Penser help me
with the right clothes to wear?"

"Let's meet with Major Dano to find out what you'll need." The Colonel
chuckled.

Alex was flattered that the Governor would take her on such an
important mission. What she didn't know was that he had been planning this
for several months. The King had ordered him to visit Agana to assess pirate
activity in the south. Governor Tyrone had expressed his confidence that
Agamon had the city of Agana under control, but didn't know anything about
Pashamon or Pashkina. The King had strongly recommended that he take his
wife with him to socialize with the women and find out what they knew. The
Governor saw no reason to marry someone just for the sake of this trip, so he
told Colonel Penser to prepare Alex instead. She was almost ready.

Never a Bridesmaid ~ Review

Never a Bridesmaid 

A May Wedding Story
By Janice Thompson

Mari is so excited when her sister announces her upcoming wedding. Sure that she can help bring everything together, Mari is a little hurt when Crystal doesn't even mention her as a potential maid of honor. 

But Crystal's choice just may keep her wedding from happening. Sienna Jameson is all about Sienna and really can't be bothered by all the work involved with helping out.  Mari is determined to help Crystal have her perfect day and she just may get a little help from the best man - Derrick Richardson, who is also a star baseball player with Houston.

Unlike Sienna, Derrick isn't all about him and is more than happy to help Mari out. Mari's selfless love for her sister make an impression on Derrick.  So much so that he wants to get to know her better. Though not the maid of honor Mari is the maid with honor.

Never a Bridesmaid is a sweet story that fans of clean sweet romances will love to read.  Fans of Janice Thompson won't be disappointed with this novella from the second year of weddings.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.

About the book:

Can one bridesmaid undo the disasters caused by a poorly chosen maid of honor and save her sister's wedding from disaster?

Mari's older sister Crystal is getting married, and Mari is one of her bridesmaids - actually, the last in a lineup of five bridesmaids, but that doesn't really bother her. Much. But Sienna Jameson as the maid of honor? Really? She might be Crystal's best friend, but she's ditzy and undependable on her best days. When the best man turns out to be hunky Derrick Richardson, the right fielder for the Houston Astros and one of Houston's most eligible bachelors, Sienna abandons her duties as maid of honor to chase Derrick, and it's up to Mari to make sure Crystal's wedding day goes off without a hitch.

While Mari is wrapped up in dress fittings, bridal showers, and bachelorette nights, Derrick has taken notice of her devotion to her sister and her determination to make the wedding perfect. But between dodging Sienna's advances and watching Mari running around like a madwoman, Derrick is left to steal moments whenever he can to get to know this beautiful bridesmaid.

When the maid of honor shows up to the ceremony late and more done up than the bride herself, Mari fears her attempts to make her sister's wedding perfect have all been for naught. Will the bride be up-staged by the maid of honor? Will the fifth-in-line bridesmaid ever be recognized for all the work she's done? And will Mari finally have a moment to revel in the magic of a wedding and dance in the strong arms of a man?

About the Author

Janice Thompson got her start in the industry writing screenplays and musical comedies for the stage. She has published over ninety books for the Christian market, crossing genre lines to write cozy mysteries, historicals, romances, nonfiction books, devotionals, children's books, and more. She particularly enjoys writing light-hearted, comedic tales because she enjoys making readers laugh. In addition, she enjoys public speaking and mentoring young writers. She lives in Spring, Texas, where she leads a rich life with her family, a host of writing friends, and two mischievous dachshunds. Visit her website at www.janiceathompson.com. Twitter: @booksbyjanice Facebook: Janice Hanna Thompson's Reader Page

Prison ~ Review

Prison
By Toni V.Lee

When a known drug dealer uses a local church as his base of operation, he may have bitten off more than he can chew.  "Rock" is angry at God and his family and he'll do whatever it takes to grow his business in the House of the Lord - even murder.

Unfortunately for Rock he picked a church that has a detective, Sonja Grey, in its congregation and it's about to get another one in the form of Max Trent.  This is one undercover that is about to change all the rules Sonja is following - and Max is one big stumbling block.

I was recently given the opportunity to review this book published by WestBow Press.  First off I was intrigued by the book's description, but unfortunately for me the book didn't live up to my description expectations.

First off waaaay too much kissing for my reading comfort level, also some of Sonja's internalized thoughts about Max are a little inappropriate for my comfort level.  I had trouble following some the lingo the various characters used - I just didn't get it, which I will admit was my issue not the book's (I think).  The plot was a tad predictable in places.

This book will appeal to many readers who just want diversionary reading for a few hours.  This is one book that personal taste is an important factor in whether or not you will enjoy it.

I was provided a copy of this book through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review.                                                    


Book Description

Sonja Grey, a narcotics detective, and her nemesis, Max Trent, are handpicked to go undercover to capture a thug—Johnny Stone, aka Rock—who’s dealing drugs at Sonja’s church. Their operation is unwittingly aided by the interference of Sonja’s eccentric aunties. For Max, this assignment has two objectives: get their villain and capture Sonja’s heart. Will Sonja break free of the shackles of her past and embrace Max’s love, or will they be destroyed by danger?

Dawn of Destiny ~ Review, Author Interview, and Giveaway

Dawn of Destiny
Epic Book 1
By Stephen Lee

Earth is under attack from various species, the Bakma seemingly the most vicious and persistent in their attacks.  Earth's defense is found in EDEN - Earth DEfense Network.  When a Bakma attack takes out almost an entire platoon - Falcon Platoon is rebuilt with rookies - a highly unusual situation, but necessary considering the state Falcon Platoon finds itself in.

It is to Falcon Platoon based out of Richmond that Scott Remington finds himself stationed. Scott never wanted to go to war, but he feels that this is something he has to do, that this is something that God wants him to do.

Scott more than proves himself to the surprise of everyone, but his success may prove to be more curse than blessing.

The audio version of this book is very impressive.  Dawn of Destiny is more than just a narration. This is an extrasensory experience  with a full cast performance and background sound effects that add a depth that one isn't normally treated to in an audiobook.

Though there is plenty of action this is more of a character driven story. And more than anything this is Scott's story.  This is truly an EPIC performance that you don't want to miss!

I was provided a copy of this audiobook by the author through iRead Book Tours in exchange for my review and participation in this tour.

Interview with Lee Stephen:

1. Do you write anything besides science-fiction?

Yes! I’m actually starting a new series that’s totally outside of science-fiction and that I’m very excited about, but I really can’t talk about it yet. I’m also working on a few other projects that fall outside the realm of sci-fi, but they’re mostly conceptual at this point.

2. In today’s tech savvy world, most writers use a computer or laptop. Have you ever written parts of your book on paper?

Though I’ve never written any actual novel material on pen and paper, I do prefer pen and paper for my notes.

3. As a new dad writer, how do you balance your time?

My son comes first. If I’m writing and he runs up to me to play, the laptop closes. I can find time to write later!

4. What is the last great book you’ve read?

I’m currently reading George W. Bush’s Decision Points, which is a fascinating read regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum. I read almost exclusively nonfiction. I’m too competitive to enjoy fiction, sadly.

5. What’s the scariest thing that ever happened to you?

Being diagnosed with cancer at age 31. I have mycosis fungoides, a rare form of incurable lymphoma. The good news it’s that it’s a manageable cancer, so it shouldn’t kill me, but it still puts life in perspective. 

Book Details:
Book Title: Dawn of Destiny (Epic #1) by Lee Stephen
Category: Adult Fiction
Genre: Sci-fi
Publisher: Stone Aside Publishing, L.L.C.
Published: November 2006
Available in: Print, ebook (mobi for Kindle and ePub) and audiobook 

Content Rating: PG-13 for violence and depictions of war. There is no profanity, sexual content, or drug use.

Book Description:

Some men go to war for the glory. Some men go to war to escape. For Scott Remington, war is entirely different. It is a belief. It is a calling. It is a destiny. Leaving everything behind—his fiancée, his future, his life—he embarks on a mission of faith into a battle he can barely understand. This is his story. This is his war. This is only the beginning.

Audiobook Description:

The Dawn of Destiny audiobook project is a full adaptation of the first book in the Epic series. It's not your typical “audiobook,” even though technically that's what it is. When people hear “audiobook,” there’s a certain type of thing that usually comes to mind. Most likely it’s the thought of someone reading a book to them, occasionally with music playing in the background. This isn't that.

What you’re going to hear in this project, is more of an audio “experience,” the audio equivalent of a summer blockbuster movie. Over thirty voice actors played a role in this. This is ear-splitting sound effects, bombastic music, and characters shouting back and forth in the middle of a war zone. This is unlike anything you've ever heard.

Publisher: Stone Aside Publishing, L.L.C.

Published: October 2014
Length: 9 hours, 47 mins 

​Meet the Author:

​Born and raised in Cajun country, Lee Stephen spent his childhood paddling pirogues through the marshes of South Louisiana. When he wasn't catching bullfrogs or playing with alligators in the bathtub (both true), he was escaping to the world of the imagination, creating worlds in his mind filled with strange creatures and epic journeys. This hasn't stopped.

Now a resident of Luling, Louisiana, Lee spends time every day delving into the world of Epic, the science-fiction series that has come to define him as a writer and producer. Alongside his wife, Lindsey, their son, Levi, and their dog, Jake, Lee has made it a mission to create a series that is unique in its genre—one unafraid to address the human condition while staying grounded in elements of faith.

In addition to writing, Lee works full-time for the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. He has also spent time as a church deacon, guitar hobbyist, and New Orleans Saints season ticket holder. He is a graduate of Louisiana College in Pineville.

Connect with Lee:  Website  ~  Twitter  ~  Facebook

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway 

10 prizes for 10 winners: 

3 - poster

3 - $25 Amazon Gift Card

2 - Dawn of Destiny series

2 - Kindle Fire HD

All prizes open to US and Canada only, except $25 gift cards open internationally, 

Ends April 17, 2015. April 17.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

All Dressed Up in Love ~ Review

All Dressed Up in Love

A March Wedding Story
By Ruth Logan Herne

Greg Elizondo knows law but when it comes to weddings he is clueless.  Unfortunately for him his lack of knowledge just may cost him his mother's struggling bridal shop.  And unless a miracle happens he just may lose it all this week-end.

Fortunately for him Tara Simonetti loves weddings and anything bridal and most importantly she's seen his notice for needed help.  And Greg is desperate for help and Tara just may be the miracle he needs.

And there may be just a spark of attraction between them, but there is a problem.  Greg is an up-and-coming lawyer in a large firm and Tara has a problem with lawyers who focus on the all powerful $ and the up-ward course of their career.  

But sometimes what we see on the surface isn't what lies beneath.  Can Tara see Greg as more than a lawyer?  And is Greg more than his job?  Sometimes it takes a seemingly random event to change how we look at others and how we see ourselves.  

All Dressed Up in Love is a sweet story that will have you wondering if there will be a wedding in the end.  Sometimes our dreams change and for a happily ever after to be a possibility two dreams just might need to be reworked.

This is a perfect week-end read or a way to unwind after a long day.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the BookLook blogger program in exchange for my honest review. 

About the Book:

Greg Elizondo hadn't bargained for this. Any of this.

Satin. Lace. Tulle. Pearl inlay, embroidered bodices, and Swarovski crystals.

The bridal shop business it took his mother three decades to build, the enterprise that covered his university and law degrees in full, was struggling because he might be part-genius when it came to contract law . . . But corset-style gowns with a mermaid flair? Shoot me now.

Tara Simonetti hated law school, but loved the community grant funding her presence at Temple University's esteemed school of law. She could not fail. Would not fail. But when a notice for bridal store help appeared on the community notice board, Tara applied for the job immediately. While grants and loans helped pave her way, money for food was scarce. Legal precedence, moot court, and judicial clerking all had their place, but they were nothing compared to Alcenon lace, tucked silk skirts, and a well-placed peplum.

Greg had grabbed her help as the act of a desperate man. Within weeks, he was desperate again, this time to win her heart. But after using community funds to get her degree, how can Tara turn her back on the people who helped finance her goal?

But if she leaves Philadelphia and Greg to return to her small-town in northern Pennsylvania, she'll be leaving her heart behind. A heart he won, fair and square by posting a help wanted notice on the coffee shop board . . . A heart that filled the missing niche in his mother's acclaimed bridal store. A heart Greg longed to cherish forevermore.

About the Author:

Award-winning author Ruth Logan Herne is the author of over a dozen novels for Love Inspired and Summerside Press. The mother of seven children, she loves kids and pets. She is married to a very patient man who is seemingly unthreatened by the casts of characters living in her head.