The THIRD Post of BOOKMAS!

Season's greetings...

...and welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers!

It's time for POST TWO of the TWELVE DAYS OF BOOKMAS.

What IS Bookmas, you ask?

Great question!

Bookmas is similar to Christmas, except it brings tidings of great reads, holiday gifting suggestions, and just about all the bookish fun you can imagine from across the genre spectrum.  It's all in one place at one time (sorta) and ready to help you get out from under the yuletide stress, and get back to enjoying the season...one page at a time.  

Just why is it the "Twelve Posts" and not the twelve books?  Simple...I have WAY TOO MANY titles for you to consider, peruse, and read all about to limit it to twelve titles.  These posts are intended to highlight some great titles, give you ideas for your gifting this year, and help me clear up my "read-it-but-need-to-review-it" teetering stack.  Triple focus...yes siree!  So, ready or not, let's get this sled on the road as we unwrap today's featured titles....

Royally Wed

The Royals, Volume 3

by

Teri Wilson

9781501160516

Pocket Star ebooks

Take one heartbroken cello player who has lost his way and his muse.  Add one princess-who-would-be-queen forced to marry to secure the crown.  Toss in a fair amount of absurd royal gifts (a live animal?  Really?), dress fittings from you-know-where, and secrets hiding quite often in plain sight, yet never acknowledged.  Oh...well, they WEREN'T at least, until now.  Sometimes fate works in your favor...and at other times you have to force its hand to attain the future you deserve as well as desire.

If you have checked this series out yet, I HIGHLY suggest you do!  Each installment features a female voice of the past (or present) from a larger than life story that just happens to be pulled from truth with a healthy addition of fiction to keep things rolling along.  This time is no different and the characters are as endearing and swoon-worthy, if not more so.  I love how the author keeps us on our toes, never quite knowing whether the happily-ever-after will be attained for the leads as one or apart.  I love how a plethora of feelings is worked into the mix without smothering the story beneath it all.  I love how while it IS about the romance, it's not JUST about the romance...allowing readers over several genres the ability to partake in the series without feelings completely out of their comfort zone. 

In short, a great addition to the growing series and a definite recommendation for adult readers.  If you like Contemporary Romance with sparks enough to light the royal ballroom, this one's for you.

Going All In

Saddle Creek Sisters

by

Amy Manemann

This is a story about a romance that once was, an end to that same connection with a somewhat mutual parting (at least logically), and the realization that it should never have been disbanded in the first place.  Why?  The feelings, the sizzle, the undeniable sparks, flirty banter, and looks of longing that are exchanged at a rapid place the moment these two are once again in the same vicinity.  Is it something that could last?  Emotionally, that's a given...after all, it's still there after all these years, but geographically it presents a challenge....that is unless one party or the other is willing to give a little to gain A LOT.

I've enjoyed this author's work in the past and this time around is more of the same.  The characters are likable, the situations relatable, and the heart's desires unable to be ignored without burning themselves out.  If you're a Contemporary Romance fan who likes the steam without stepping into the flames, you should definitely check out this story, as well as the author's other works.

Falling for Mr. Wrong

by

Jenny Gardiner

Much like the character's relationship, one moment I was beginning this story and the next I was finished. Short stories are a mixed bag and generally leave me wanting more, such is the case here. I wanted more detail to their past history (his reasons for leaving were beyond juvenile), more time to know them as they are now (there seemed to be SOMETHING redeemable there for both of them, and the connection -though buried deep- was obviously still viable), more space between the hookups (I'll just leave it at that)...and for me, less dirty talk. It's fine and dandy that the sparks fly when they're together, but I prefer a little more build up versus constant pyrotechnic show. Still, a good story for an afternoon quickie...read.

Hey, get your mind out of the gutter...

Special thanks to Melissa at Simon & Schuster, Brenda with author Amy Manemann, and author Jenny Gardiner for the copies for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on these titles, the authors, or the publishers, feel free to click through the links provided above.  Be sure to check back for the next BOOKMAS post for more bookish fun!

Happy holidays and happy reading!



Play Ball!: Pitching for Love by Amy Manemann

Hi guys and gals!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

So, it's late(ish) Friday night and I know what you're thinking, why is she posting something NOW at this time of night?  Simple!  My day didn't start off the way I intended but it sure as heck is going to end the way I wish...literally speaking, of course.  On that note, the time of day also suits the read I'm bringing to you because while it's short(ish) on pages, it's BIG on...many other levels.  *ahem*  Ladies and...okay, mostly the ladies, please turn your eyes my way as we welcome today's ebook of choice...

Pitching for Love

The Remingtons, Kindle World Novella

by

Amy Manemann

About the book...

Tough as nails publicist, Mia Scott, has built her career by dodging the advances from her elite clientele. Her number one rule; never mix business with pleasure. Until a split second decision leads her to a night of unbridled passion and the morning after blues when she discovers the man she spent an amazing night with is her newest client. 

Professional baseball pitcher, Evan Ahrens, knows he messed up, and messed up royally. One mistake on the field puts him on thin ice with the league and lands him a new PR rep to fix his soiled image. He goes to NightCaps to toss back a few drinks and blow off some steam and meets his match in a feisty dark haired woman who takes him to heights he's never been. There's only one problem she's his new publicist, and she's made it clear there will be no repeat performances. 

A battle of wills gives way to uncontrollable passion as Mia fights her growing feelings to keep things professional, while Evan decides for once in his life he wants something more. The game just went from saving his career, to pitching for love.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

First things first, let's contemplate that title.

From the genre, we can guess it's going to be a love story.  The synopsis let's us glimpse a little closer and see, okay...we're dealing with a ball player so "pitching" makes perfect sense.  Another look and we see that Mia is a publicist, so she pitches for a living, so to speak.  Oh buddy, but what you can't see or read between the lines is how all of these potential meanings and interpretations are going to blend together to deliver one heck of a story.

Mia (or should be say Bianca?  *raises eyebrow*) is one great gal.  She has her head on straight, knows where she's going, and how she's getting there.  The only hitch in her plan comes in a completely irresistible package...and happens to be her new client.  DOH!  Well, they say hindsight is 20/20...though in this case, she should have hoped it was blind because that's the only way she's going to keep her rules in place, her defenses intact, and her heart protected from the likes of this player.  Ah, yes.  That infamous word "player"....but despite it's double meaning here, Evan is one of the good guys.  Like Mia, he doesn't play games (well he does, for a living, but in love, he's straight forward) and whomever he's spending time with, knows the score.  Usually it's more of a love-em-and-leave-em-mutually scenario, but this time...something feels off.  Could it be that ONE NIGHT has defeated them both, or at least all the reasons why they shouldn't, couldn't, wouldn't be together?  Or could it be something even bigger than them both....the big L...only time will tell, and it's ticking away FAST.

I have to say, I enjoyed this one as much as I enjoyed Pulled By Love, and I've not ever read the series that sparked the novellas.  They're sweet, yet sassy.  There's sexy times but not overly so and there are moments of the heart that will stop you in your tracks.  Author Amy Manemann brings us lovable yet strong leads, both male and female, WITH flaws and makes you care. I loved Mia's tact and spark, while Evan was a breath of fresh air to the stereotype you were expecting.  The times they shared regardless of situation were memorable in many ways and the story played out in a very believable fashion.  By book's end, you'll be so caught up in the he/she/they, that the approaching final page will take you by surprise...and leave you with a smile on your face.

Recommended read for adult Contemporary Romance fans...due to the sexy times.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the author...

Amy Manemann is an International Best Selling Author. She writes sexy and intriguing romantic suspense, contemporary romance (NEW), young adult paranormal romance, and dabbles in children's books. She resides in her hometown along the Mississippi river with her husband and their two children. When she isn't plotting her next book, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and diving into a good book. 

Amy is also a site administrator for the World Literary Café, an online literary community for authors and readers. www.worldliterarycafe.com.

SITE  |  FACEBOOK  |  TWITTER

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to author Amy Manemann for the chance to read (review copy!) and share this title with you.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, the series, or the original Remingtons that got it all started, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title celebrated its book birthday last week, so click on over to snag your copy today!

Until next time...happy reading!

Pulled by Love by Amy Manemann

Hi guys and gals!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Yesterday's posting break is over and I'm back with another review.  It's a Contemporary Romance short story from an author whose work I've featured once before.  I enjoyed my first trip through the epages, but what about the second...you're about to find out.  Ladies and gents, though mostly the ladies, get ready for your next must read title and my book of choice today...

The Remmingtons:  Pulled by Love

(Kindle Worlds Novella)

by

Amy Manemann

About the book...

After years of paying her dues, Ava Sweet finally owns the taffy shop of her dreams. Her grandmother's signature recipes are beginning to make a statement in Soho, NY, and with the help of her friend, Leanna Remington, she has her eyes set on the upcoming Big Apple Sweets Convention to put her shop on the map. The only problem, she's been accused of stealing a recipe by the hunky Boy Scout from the fudge and candy shop next door.

Hudson James is always ready and willing to lend a helping hand, especially at his family's fudge and candy shop. They're looking to showcase some new recipes at the upcoming sweets convention in the hopes of regaining the notoriety their shop has always been known for. Until the owner of the taffy shop next door creates a recipe so similar to theirs that Hudson doesn't hesitate to call her out on it.

In a world of sugary creations and high pressure candy making, adding a dash of romance isn't part of the recipe. With the sweets convention only a week away, Ava and Hudson will need to try and keep their eye on the prize, even while their hearts are being pulled by love.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Okay so pretty much EVERY description I came up with for this book ended up sounding cheesy.  Don't believe me?  Watch...or rather read....

Sweet!

Delightful Treat!

Tasty!

Hits the spot!

Eye candy...literally!

See what I mean?

But I suppose that is one of the stumbling blocks with a story filled with sweets.

The story is about two candymakers from somewhat opposing teams (fudge versus taffy) who have a meet cute that is other than ideal (accused of recipe theft...good grief!) that turns into potentially something more and then not and then maybe and then...who knows?!  Trust me though you'll be glued to the page...if not fanning yourself a bit from the steamier moments.  What's that saying?  If you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen?  Very fitting here.  *wink wink*  Anywho, let's dig a little deeper....

Ava Sweet is a great leading lady.  She's as sweet as her name, a smart business woman, a good friend, and just a tad gun shy of putting her heart out there to potentially be stomped.  Does she have good reasons behind that?  Not certain (that's the downside of short stories, you usually end up wanting more), but with her current goal in mind (growing her taffy shop), she's got her eyes on the prize.  That prize shifts just a smidge when local Boy Scout aka Hudson James steps through her door.  He's a recovering womanizer, okay that was a bit harsh, but he was no stranger to the ladies, who has bigger things on his mind right now thanks to dear old Mom and Dad.  He has a business to run and a reputation to uphold and...was not expecting to seriously crush on the "girl next door".  I suppose one can't really guide the hand of fate; just gotta take it as it comes.  These two apart is one thing, but together...let's just say there are definitely fireworks.  

To say I fell in love from the start would be accurate, though not descriptive enough to express all my feelings.  I love the way the author writes her characters, balances their positives and negatives out to create realistic personas.  The romantic aspects are flirty and fun, keeping the up-close-and-personal moments between the sheets to a minimum...there to fan the flames but not cross the line.  Overall, it was a gem of a read and I can't wait to see what's next from this author.  Recommended for adult readers of Contemporary Romance.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the author...

Amy Manemann is an International Best Selling Author. She writes sexy and intriguing romantic suspense, contemporary romance (NEW), young adult paranormal romance, and dabbles in children's books. She resides in her hometown along the Mississippi river with her husband and their two children. When she isn't plotting her next book, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and diving into a good book. 

Amy is also a site administrator for the World Literary Café, an online literary community for authors and readers. www.worldliterarycafe.com

You can connect with Amy at www.amymanemann.blogspot.com

BLOG   |   FACEBOOK   |   TWITTER

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to author Amy Manemann for the ebook for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, the author, or her growing body of works, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title is available now, so be on the lookout for it on a virtual shelf of your choosing.

Until next time...happy reading!

Love on the Slopes by Amy Manemann

Hi guys!

Welcome back to Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers.

Today, we're closing out the first week of June (the first week already gone, whoa!) with a look inside the epages of a Contemporary Romance title you NEED TO KNOW.  No, seriously!  You know my preference for print and once I finished the read, I was immediately seeking it out in my favorite format only to find, *sniff* it's only in electronic media right now.  Cie la vie...I'll keep my fingers crossed that one day my wish will come true while you scope out my thoughts on the e-version now, deal?  Great!  Ladies and gents, but mostly all my lady friends...today's ebook of choice is...

Love on the Slopes

Hartley Series, Book 1

by

Amy Manemann

B00WH2U4AK

About the book...

Jessa Hartley is haunted by memories of the night she threw herself at her childhood crush, Dominic DeRenzi – and he turned her away. Years later, Jessa has managed to put the past behind her and climb up the ranks as head instructor of the ski lodge she one day hopes to purchase. Only her plans take a nosedive when the smooth talking Italian shows back up in town. Even worse, he’s planning on purchasing HER lodge. 

After surviving a disastrous marriage, Dominic DeRenzi returns to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, hoping to make a fresh start for him and his six year old son by purchasing the old ski lodge. Until a chance encounter with Jessa Hartley throws his well laid plans off track. The once innocent girl from his childhood has grown into the beautiful woman he always knew she would become, and he is painfully reminded of the night he over stepped his bounds and kissed her. Then broke her heart by sending her away. 

Rekindling the flames of their past isn’t part of the plan, yet Dominic and Jessa soon find they’re helpless to stop the fire that burns brightly between them. He broke her heart the first time he left, but can he make her see this time around he’s here to stay? 

AMAZON   |   B&N

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I HEART THIS BOOK!

No, really.  Get me some snow and a pair of mittens and I'll carve it out in the nearest drift for the world to see. 

Jessa is a firecracker, of course she had to be to some degree growing up in her large family with so many brothers (that whole pick or be picked on mentality), but she really makes her mark and not just on the slopes.  She had a dream, made plans to follow it, and when it seemed just within her reach, it got pulled right out from under her by a wickedly handsome blast from her past with blue eyes to boot!  Yep.  Trouble here is spelled DOM, short for Dominic, and though his intentions for the lodge are good, those creeping into his mind regarding Jessa are more on the steamy side of things. Of course, the last thing on his mind is starting a relationship especially with the one woman he unintentionally burned before leaving town the last time he was here.  Good thing that's ancient history and they can both be calm, collected adults about the whole situation, right?  Yeah....I didn't believe them nor should you, but this isn't going to be a trip down the old bunny hill.  Past, present, and possible futures collide creating a snowstorm of calamity that may cut off any happily-ever-after before it even begins.  Will these two (with the adorable Dante, his son!) ski off into the sunset?  Or will they get lost in the avalanche of emotions heading there way?  The only way to find out is gonna be you spending some quality time with your favorite ereading app or reader.  As for me...

I mentioned how great Jessa was, or rather is, but there is a SLEW of other fabulous characters to note!  Of course, there is Dominic, the old flame, new boss, and maybe more.  You can't help but fall under his spell (*sigh*) when you see where his heart really lies even after all he and his son have been through.  Speaking of his son, Dante is such a sweetie!  I mean, talk about insightful, the kid needs nothing spelled out to him....he's got it all figured out and not in an I-know-better-than-the-adults sorta way.  His ability to see through all the hubbub and get right to the heart of the matter managed to move me more than I'd have imagined.  Then there's Elaina, Lucy, Julianna, and all the other Hartley men...so many names and faces, so little time to explain them all, but from the sound of things, this is JUST THE BEGINNING!  (Can we say the other Hartley books are definitely going on my wish list?  Yes, yes we can. ^-^)

So, we've discussed the story and established I'm a fan, let's talk writing for a brief moment.  The author really knows how to keep things from stalling even without the most involved story line.  Don't get me wrong, there IS something going on here besides the potential hookup but it's not overly complicated so it could have left us hanging along the way.  Pleased to say it did not and that I was hanging on every epage.  The cast of characters is on the large side, but they are all introduced to the extent that we need to know them at this stage in the series, able to leave their mark while building their backstories for future releases.  I liken it in series building style/power to Bella Andre's series, or Susan Mallery's wonderful world of Fool's Gold.  There's plenty of stories to grow on just from this one release, and I for one will be watching for future installments.  (Yes, I said it above and I said it again...it was worth the repeat.)

In conclusion, it definitely falls into the clean romance category of things as it has all the flirtation and sparks you could want with a courteous "fade to black" occurring just after the mind blowing kisses.  It has heart and heat, snow filled adventures and business outings, all wrapped up in family and friends.  You'll laugh at the antics, smile at the sweetness, sigh at the breathtaking "meetings" and just plain fall in love as the couple that should be decides whether or not they could be the last ones standing.  I was sure rooting for them and I think you will be too.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the author...

Amy Manemann is an International Best Selling Author. She writes sexy and intriguing romantic suspense, young adult paranormal romance, contemporary romance (NEW), and dabbles in children's books. She resides in her hometown along the Mississippi river with her husband and their two children. When she isn't plotting her next book, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, and diving into a good book. 

Amy is also a site administrator for the World Literary Café, an online literary community for authors and readers. www.worldliterarycafe.com. 

You can connect with Amy at www.amymanemann.blogspot.com.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Special thanks to author Amy Manemann for the eARC for review.  (THANKS!)  For more information on this title, those forthcoming in the series, or the author, feel free to click through the links provided above.  This title just hit virtual shelves April 2015, so be on the lookout for it at a virtual retailer of your choosing.

Until next time...happy reading!