Saturday, November 7, 2020

Grand Finale Blitz- The Cowboy's Holiday Bride by Cathy McDavid on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

I’m so excited for the release of THE COWBOY’S HOLIDAY BRIDE, book one in my news series Wishing WellSprings. All four of the books in the series are very — and I stress very — loosely inspired by a different popular rom-com movie. . .


"The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride by Cathy McDavid is a sweet holiday romance that is so entertaining. I loved Ms. McDavid’s approach with this one and how it is truly an enlightening tale. Wishing WellSprings is a nice Western-themed wedding destination, or I would think even going for a Western event would be cool. I am giving this book four stars and recommending it to everyone that likes these types of books."


"This book gave me that warm and fuzzy feeling right out of the gate and helped to keep me warm even as the early snow was blustering outside my window. I'm now completely in the holiday romance mood and want more! And I am very much looking forward to future installments in this sweet romantic series."


"Sweet, swoony and smile-inducing, The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride is a must-read for fans of small-town holiday romances. From the completely charming wedding venue to the magic of the Christmas season, readers will fall in love with Wishing Well Springs even while they are falling for the characters too. Cash and Phoebe bring out the best – and the worst – in each other, allowing for fun banter/bickering and delightfully romantic moments. Eager to read the next book and catch up with Cash, Phoebe, and Laurel too!"

EmpowerMoms - Review

"This was a sweet, fun to read, holiday twist of the classic “The Christmas Carol” story. I love heartwarming Harlequin books because they are clean, easy to read, entertaining, and a great escape from real life. . . . Lots of laughs and holiday spirit in this entertaining story. I really enjoyed it!"


No one in their right mind climbed a fifteen-foot extension ladder in flaming red three-inch heels—which, in Cash Montgomery’s mind, explained a lot.

He strode through the barn’s wide entrance, removing his denim jacket first, then his Stetson, and tossing both onto the nearest table. While bare now, it would soon be sheathed in a linen tablecloth, set with fine china and silver flatware, and surrounded by happy guests. That was, if Phoebe Kellerman didn’t accidentally kill herself first and cause the wedding to be cancelled.


"What a beautifully written, delightful, fun and entertaining read! I loved this story from the very start. I thought Cash and Phoebe had great chemistry. The plot was somewhat predictable but still so very good. . . . I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean romance. It is most definitely a must read."


"This clean romance was quite cute, with several romantic twists as the hero, Cash learns a lesson in visits from his three ex-fiancees. . . . The banter between the main characters was really great"

Remembrancy - Review

"The fuse between Phoebe and Cash is sparked by witty dialogue and butting heads, but it soon catches with growing attraction. I felt like a guest during the gorgeous Christmas wedding scenes, and the last one is just a little sweeter than the rest.

With this being the first book in a new series, I look forward to visiting Wishing Well Springs again soon."

@onemused - Review

"THE COWBOY'S HOLIDAY BRIDE is a sweet Christmas romance that takes a fun twist on A CHRISTMAS CAROL. . . . I really enjoyed reading their story and the setting of the place where romance happens with lots of happy couples. The twist was truly delightful, and it all puts the reader in the holiday mood with a heartwarming romance. I loved Phoebe and Cash - they are both great characters in their own way, and they really bring out the best in each other. . . THE COWBOY'S HOLIDAY BRIDE is a charming Christmas read that brings on the holiday spirit and romance. Recommend for people looking for a new, fun contemporary romance read."


"I loved the surprises in store for Cash. His former fiancé has a lot to do with the surprises. I enjoyed the closeness that Cash had with his family. The book had me hooked from the first page."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride is another Christmas story that I love! I had so much fun reading this sweet story about Phoebe and Cash. . . . There were some twists in the story. Tensions were a bit tight at times when Cash had visits from his past, but they were ironed out and everything was good again. I really enjoyed Cash and Phoebe, their chemistry was phenomenal, just what I love in a sweet Romance."


"McDavid has the knack for creating Western ranches and wedding venues with the care and concern of those who work there . . . I felt this provided just the right amount of irony for the series - how they can plan and produce weddings but they cannot find that kind of sweetened harmonic happiness in their own lives . . . There is a lot of tongue-in-cheek moments between Phoebe and Cash - where they are each not necessarily willing to compromise with the other but where they get into bouts of arguments where you can tell neither one minds being the one to compromise in the end. You can see how they are simply two persons who never fully gave each other the time or inclination to pursue romantically and in that kind of way, the set-up McDavid has provided for the backdrop of this novel is apt fodder for a romance reader to soak inside because of the drama it organically brings into the story-line."


"The Cowboy's Holiday Bride is a heartwarming holiday romance filled with likeable characters, witty dialogue, a great small town setting, and the special magic associated with Christmas. I recommend it to all who enjoy contemporary romantic fiction and I look forward to more books in this Wishing Well Springs series by author Cathy McDonald."


Left with no choice, he admitted, “Um, actually, I’ll be here for the next three weeks. I’m covering for Laurel while she’s in Palm Springs,” he finished with less conviction than he would have liked.

“You’re covering for your sister,” Phoebe repeated slowly.

“Yeah. We—you and I—are going to be working together. Well, more than we usually do.” He produced what he hoped passed for an affable smile “I’m your new able-bodied assistant.”

“You’re…joking.”

“Afraid not.”


"This book was sweet, a little sassy, and made me smile. I so enjoyed getting to read and learn about Cash and Phoebe. I thought that their story was well laid out, had good character arcs, and I loved (have I said I loved the interesting take on A Christmas Carol?) Cathy McDavid’s unique and fun take on this classic story. It was just what I needed in the midst of this season. I recommend it to anyone wanting a feelgood story that will make you warm and fuzzy inside."


"This fun story is a nice start to a new series set at Wishing Well Springs . . . I was happy with the ending to this sweet novel and hope that both Cash and Phoebe truly were able to change for the better and be a couple who would truly last."

Hallie Reads - Review

". . . Cathy McDavid’s The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride delighted me from beginning to end. . . . The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride offers a fun twist on a classic holiday tale. The friendship between Cash and Phoebe proves endearing and makes them an easy couple to cheer toward romance. I definitely recommend this to readers looking for a Christmas romance to read this season."


"This beautiful, emotional, and endearing story does have a happily ever after. The author brought real life issues, dual perspectives, and realistic feelings to life in a lively story that held my attention with engaging writing and fast paced storyline. I definitely found it hard to put down. I’d definitely be interested in reading more."


“What does that mean?” Phoebe was less adept than her sister at interpreting tones and inflections.

“Just that… Well, come on. You. And Cash. Together…”

“So what?” Don’t say it. Please.

“You…like him—”

“I do not,” Phoebe insisted with enough vehemence that Georgia Ann sent her a curious look.


"This is a super-cute cute novel with delightful characters and a wonderful premise. I quickly became interested in the story of Cash Montgomery, his sister, Laurel and their business partner/friend, Phoebe Kellerman. . . . There is so much to love about this book, there is a strong loving, hardworking family dynamic, solid friendships, genuine care and concern for each and every wedding they plan and just an all around sweet fun read."


"Cathy McDavid’s The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride is a warm, witty and wonderful Christmas romance readers will not be able to resist! . . . Cathy McDavid effortlessly blends delicious humor, heart-warming drama and uplifting romance in an emotional read that is absolutely perfect for curling up with during the holidays: The Cowboy’s Holiday Bride."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

The Cowboy's Holiday Bride
(Wishing Well Springs #1)
By Cathy McDavid
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
November 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Changing his heart…

Would be a Christmas miracle!

Cash Montgomery creates Western-themed weddings and knows all about happily-ever-after. In theory. He’s been hurt too many times to think that he could ever be a marrying man. His business partner Phoebe Kellerman doesn’t agree with him—on anything! At Christmas, Cash is visited by three of his past girlfriends…and he begins to see the error of his ways. Will it be before he loses Phoebe, the woman he’s falling for?

New York Times Bestselling Author

(Affiliate links included.)
BAM | IndieBound | Apple | Kobo | Google | Harlequin

About the Author


In the third grade, NY Times, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author Cathy McDavid made it her goal to read every Black Stallion book ever written. Who knew such an illustrious ambition would eventually lead to a lifelong love of all things western, owning a stagecoach pulled by six mules, and a career writing contemporary romances for Harlequin? With over 50 titles in print and 1.3 million-plus books sold, Cathy is also a member of the prestigious Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll. This “almost” Arizona native and mother of grown twins is married to her own real-life sweetheart. After leaving the corporate world six years ago, she now spends her days penning stories about good looking cowboys riding the range, busting broncs, and sweeping gals off their feet — oops, no. Make that winning the hearts of feisty, independent women who give the cowboys a run for their money. It's a tough job, but she’s willing to make the sacrifice. 


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a $20 Amazon eGift Card (US only)

Ends November 11, 2020

Grab Our Button!

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Friday, November 6, 2020

Book Blitz & Giveaway-Montana Match by Carol Ross on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Montana Match
(The Blackwell Sisters #4)
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
November 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Thanksgiving in Montana

Is about family—and love!

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for Fiona Harrison to turn her life around. And she is sure finding a suitable husband will please her newfound family in Montana. When a dating app sends her every dud in town, handsome bartender Simon Clarke offers to be her matchmaker. If only Simon fit her criteria… Learning the truth about the twinkle-eyed charmer could change everything—but for better or worse?

USA TODAY Bestselling Author

The Blackwell Sisters
Book 1: Montana Welcome by Melinda Curtis
Book 2: Montana Wishes by Amy Vastine
Book 3: Montana Dreams by Anna J. Stewart
Book 4: Montana Match by Carol Ross
Book 5: Montana Wedding by Cari Lynn Webb

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

Fiona groaned. “Now I have to go back to dating.”

That moment, Simon recognized later, was his undoing. Specifically, that sound, the heart-wrenching sound of Fiona’s sadness, weariness and despair. It dug right into him and precipitated his final descent into foolishness. That, and the idea of watching her continue to waste time on these mismatched “matches” via her bogus family-influenced profile. What if she grew so tired of the process that she gave up and settled on someone? He couldn’t handle it if she ended up with some guy even weirder than Drew or as domineering as Gary. If she was going to go through with this husband search, she deserved one worthy of her. He needed to make sure of that.

“No, Fiona, you don’t.”

“Unfortunately, I do,” she countered.

“You don’t even like this internet dating stuff.”

Fiona gazed quickly and impatiently skyward before focusing back on him. “That’s not exactly news, Simon. I’ve already told you I don’t. On paper, however, it should work.” She executed a theatrical air punch and forced a smile, and added, “It will work. Trying to stay optimistic here, but it’s getting difficult. I’m beginning to think I’m the problem.”

“You are most definitely not the problem.”

“Yeah? Well, so far... Never mind, I hate being negative. Ugh. Did you hear that? I just did it again. I’m usually not a negative person, but since I’ve moved to Montana things have not worked out like I thought they would and...” Her eyes widened as if surprised by her comment. “You know what? You don’t need to hear this. I’ll figure it out. I always do.”

“Maybe I can help.”

“That is highly unlikely.”

“Neg-a-tive,” he crooned in a singsong voice. “We’re not doing negative anymore, remember?”

“Right.” Twitching and extra cute, her mouth barely resisted a smile.

“I have a dating proposition for you.”

“Very funny,” she returned drily.

“I’m not talking about me,” he said. Just gathering the words felt painful, but he forged on, “Shut down your dating profile, and I’ll find you a guy.”

Her eyebrows darted up as her mouth opened and then snapped shut, leaving an expression that reflected the pure bizarreness of the suggestion. “You are going to find me a guy?”

“I know a lot of people around here.” Ned and Val knew even more. He would enlist their advice, he decided, growing more encouraged by his suggestion. “Let me be your matchmaker.”

“Why would you do that?”

“Because I care about you. I can’t stand to see you on these dates, disappointed over and over again.” If that gave away more of his feelings than was wise, he didn’t care.

When she didn’t answer, he posed it another way. “How is my setting you up with a guy I think you’ll like, and who I think is worthy of you, any different than your family helping you fill out your profile to attract a certain type of guy?”

“Are you saying that you think you can do a better job of finding me a potential husband than my own family?”

“Well, I know you and I know the guys. So...” He shrugged one shoulder dramatically. “What do you have to lose? I’ll be leaving in a few weeks anyway. If it doesn’t work, you reactivate your profile and go back to doing it your way.”

About the Author


 USA Today bestselling author Carol Ross grew up in small town America right between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, in a place where you can go deep sea fishing in the morning and then hit the ski slopes the same afternoon. The daughter of what is now known as free range parents, she developed a love of the outdoors at a very early age. As a writer, Carol loves to breathe the life she has lived into the characters she creates, grateful for the “research material” that every questionable decision, adrenaline-charged misstep, and near-death experience has provided.





MY REVIEW

Fiona has had lots of bad relationships. Now prompted by her father and grandfather in Montana, she leaves California to meet the family she never knew she had and tries to find her happily ever after the match. The Blackwell family are many and things are different. Especially, when she meets Simon, who is tending the bar at the place where she meets her dates.

The story has lots of surprises. The character of Fiona is witty, independent, but has problems figuring out relationships. Simon is supportive, attentive, and taken with Fiona. A secret he isn't willing to share hinders the relationship and creates trust issues.

Forgiveness, understanding, patience, and love are themes within the story. The ending left me wanting to know more. I can't wait for the next installment as it was a very enjoyable read.

I received a copy from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.


Blitz Giveaway


One winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and an ebook of Montana Match
One winner will receive an ebook of Montana Match

Open internationally
Ends November 6, 2020

ENTER HERE
Grab Our Button!
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Wednesday, November 4, 2020

Mountain of Peril Blog Tour & Giveaway by J.Carol Nemeth on Tour with Celebrate Lit

 



About the Book

 Book: Mountain of Peril 
 Author: J. Carol Nemeth 
 Genre: Christian Romantic Suspense 
 Release Date: January 25, 2018 

 When Molly Walker graduated from college, she was thrilled to be hired on as a ranger at Deep Creek Campground in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. She arrived ready to begin her career and to enjoy all the aspects of her new job, but the one thing she hadn’t counted on was the local poachers and their illegal shenanigans. Molly and fellow ranger Jake Stuart try to put a stop to the escalating poaching problem while protecting the animals. In the meantime, Molly finds the handsome ranger, who is also a local, is a great partner to have on her side. She also finds she’s losing her heart to him when she’d planned to stay focused on her career. Can she give her heart and have a career? She and Jake find themselves in a battle against a group of men with a hidden agenda far more sinister than poaching. Can they be stopped before Molly’s life is snuffed out? Molly and Jake are in a battle against a group of men with a hidden agenda far more sinister than poaching. Can they be stopped before Molly’s life is snuffed out?  

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author


 

 A native North Carolinian, J. Carol Nemeth has always loved reading and enjoyed making up stories since junior high school, most based on the places she has lived or traveled to. She worked in the National Park Service as a Park Aid and served in the US Army where she was stationed in Italy, traveling to over thirteen countries while there. She met the love of her life, Mark Nemeth, also an Army veteran, while stationed in Italy. After they married, they lived in various locations, including North Yorkshire, England. 

They now live in West Virginia, where, in their spare time, Carol and Mark enjoy RVing, sightseeing and are active in their church. They have a son, Matt, who serves active-duty Army, a daughter, Jennifer, her husband Flint, who serves active duty Air Force, and three grandchildren, Martin, Ava, and Gage. Their four-footed kid, Holly, a black Lab, loves traveling in their RV, and when they pack up to go, she’s waiting inside for them to head out.   


More from J. Carol 

 I worked for the National Park Service at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park many moons ago before I met my husband. The setting for Mountain of Peril, Faith in the Parks Book 1 is in that park. I met a lot of interesting people and there was never a dull moment. Something was always happening. I was either helping trap wild boar, riding horseback for backcountry patrol, or doing search and rescue for missing persons. I used several of my own experiences in the story, tweaking them a bit here or there to fit with the flow of the narrative. 

This book is near and dear to my heart just as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is. Working there was the best job I ever had, other than writing of course, and I loved it. I hope my love of the park flows through my characters and spills out for readers to experience and enjoy.




My Review

Molly Walker starts her position at the Deep Creek Ranger Station. She settles into her new position feeling confident until she meets Jake Stuart. She is rattled by his sweet manner and good looks. Being assigned to work together, she isn't interested in a relationship and tries to focus on her job.

Mountain of Peril has lots of unexpected twists. The author's descriptions of the everyday life of the rangers filled my head with wonderful visions. The characters are real, caring, and I loved the many references to faith in God, as each character leaned on HIM for support.

There are lots of action and suspense to the storyline. The ending wrapped everything up nicely and the blossoming romance and friendly banter of Molly and Jake are wonderfully played out. Highly recommended.

I was provided with a copy and voluntarily choose to review it.


                                                                Blog Stops

    Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, November 4

Bizwings Blog, November 4

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, November 5

For Him and My Family, November 6

Blogging With Carol, November 6

Texas Book-aholic, November 7

For the Love of Literature, November 8

Artistic Nobody, November 8 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

deb’s Book Review, November 9

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, November 10

Betti Mace, November 11

Labor Not in Vain, November 11

Inklings and notions, November 12

Ashley’s Bookshelf, November 13

Mary Hake, November 13

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, November 14

Locks, Hooks and Books, November 15

Pause for Tales, November 15

Sara Jane Jacobs, November 16

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, November 17    



                  

                                                                        Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, J. Carol is giving away the grand prize a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10330/mountain-of-peril-celebration-tour-giveaway







Posted by at 8 comments:

Sunday, November 1, 2020

Certain Threat by Kimberly Rose Johnson Blog Post & Giveaway

 



About the Book

Book: Certain Threat

Author: Kimberly Rose Johnson

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: October 6, 2020

Katrina White’s garage explodes and she fears someone is out to get her.

Not long after Katrina overhears two people talking about robbing the bank where she works, her attached garage explodes. With the help of her neighbor, Frank Davis, she escapes the burning home after a storage shelf falls over, trapping her beneath it.

The co-owner of Protection Inc. has one thing on his mind for the week of Christmas—rest and relaxation, but when his favorite neighbor needs his help he calls in his team. Unable to turn their backs on someone Frank clearly has feelings for, the co-owners agree to help out Katrina.

When things escalate, Frank is certain of two things—he cares a lot for Katrina and he can’t let anything happen to her.

Join the team of Protection Inc. this Christmas where love is in the air even in the midst of danger.

 

Click here to get your copy!

 

About the Author



Award-winning author Kimberly Rose Johnson married her college sweetheart and lives in the Pacific Northwest. From a young child, Kimberly has been an avid reader. That love of reading fostered a creative mind and led to her passion for writing. She especially loves romance and writes contemporary romance that warms the heart and feeds the soul.

Kimberly holds a degree in Behavioral Science from Northwest University in Kirkland, Washington, and is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers.

 

More from Kimberly

Certain Threat was one of my favorite books to write. There are three-point of view characters. Two have been in the series from book one and the third is a new addition in this book.

I adore Frank, the hero of this book. The man is tough, honest, and always does his best to do the right thing. He’s a good example for his younger business partners who like to do things their own way, especially Carissa.

For me, the most fun part about writing this book was getting inside Frank’s head. He comes across as tough and sometimes gruff, but he is a marshmallow on the inside when it comes to Katrina, his neighbor. Katrina brings out a side in Frank we haven’t yet witnessed and it was a blast to write—no pun intended. LOL, you’ll understand when you read the book.

I look forward to writing future books in this series and going deeper with the rest of the Protection Inc. team and their friends.


MY REVIEW

Co-owner of Protection Inc, Frank Davis, has a case close to home when one of the neighbor's homes is blown up. His agency vowes to protect Katrina and figure out who is behind the attack.

Certain Threat is an easy to read suspense novel with all the twists and turns you would expect. The characters are entertaining and the plot flowed well and kept me guessing until the end. There was a bit of romance building between Frank and Katrina. The romance portion was a clean, sweet read which brought the story towards the end. The ending wrapped everything up nicely.

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily choose to review it.


                              Blog Stops

                                          Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 19

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, October 19

Worthy2Read, October 20

21st Century Keeper at Home, October 20

Texas Book-aholic, October 21

Inklings and notions, October 22

deb’s Book Review, October 22

Betti Mace, October 23

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 23

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 24

Mary Hake, October 24

Sara Jane Jacobs, October 25

April Hayman, Author, October 25

Splashes of Joy, October 26

Artistic Nobody, October 26 (Guest Review from Joni Truex)

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 27

mypreciousbitsandmusings, October 27

Aryn the Libraryan, October 28

CarpeDiem, October 28

For Him and My Family, October 29

Daysong Reflections, October 29

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 30

Bigreadersite, October 30

Ashley’s Bookshelf, October 31

Blossoms and Blessings, October 31

Simple Harvest Reads, November 1 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

Bizwings Blog, November 1

Giveaway




To celebrate her tour, Kimberly is giving away the grand prize of a $25 Amazon gift card!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/10266/certain-threat-celebration-tour-giveaway

Posted by at 6 comments:

Sunday, October 25, 2020

Grand Finale- This Christmas by Laurie Winter on Tour with Prism Book Tours

 

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Author Interview

What inspired you to write THIS CHRISTMAS?

My pastor, an avid snowboarder, shared how much he enjoyed visiting Park City, Utah. His stories inspired me to dream up a suspense series set in a fictional ski village called Polaris. For THIS CHRISTMAS, I wanted to feature a ‘seasoned’ second chance couple with older kids, and the good and bad that come with an empty nest.


After closing his eyes, he reopened them and took a deep breath. Their Christmas tree was set up in the corner, filled with lights and family ornaments. Three stockings hung off the fireplace mantel. Grief and anger scorched his insides. Why had Kenna decorated for Christmas after he’d asked her to leave everything packed away? His late wife’s stocking, snuggled between Kenna’s and his own, ripped at his heart. I can’t breathe. The bright and cheery room blurred his vision. Christmas was no longer welcome in his house. How could he celebrate when his world had been crushed?

Hallie Reads - Excerpt

Christmas decorations were so prevalent, he wondered how many one person could own. A miniature Christmas tree sat in the entryway, filled with glass ornaments of a variety of foods. The Batista house burst with merry cheer—a stark contrast to his home. The smells drifting down the hallway from the kitchen reminded him of past holidays when he’d come home to find Maggie and Kenna elbow-deep in cookie dough and frosting. Pain pressed against his temples, and Luke blocked out the memories. “I’m here about Alex. You called and reported him missing?”

Splashes of Joy - Review

"This is such a fun story, a story that tells of difficulties in families, but love still flows through no matter what. . . . If you are looking for a good clean story to read during the Christmas holiday, this is a great choice."


“I won’t stay long. As soon as I know she’s good, I’ll head back to town.” He blew over the top of the cup before taking another drink.

“No one will blame you for taking a day off.” She rested a hand on his arm. “Especially for your daughter.”

“I’ll take some time off once we find Alex and arrest the bad guys.” The corner of his lip lifted in a semi-smile.

E-Romance News - Excerpt

Out of the corner of his eye, he admired her beautiful face. Only a few fine lines were displayed on her otherwise smooth skin. She had striking cheekbones, and the rosy color filling the area below them gave her a youthful glow. Her good looks were well-developed—like a photograph, crisp and vivacious. “This might be a rude question, but how old were you when you had Alex and Marco? You don’t look old enough to have sons that age.”

QuirkyBookReads - Review

"It is well written with an creative description that paints a clear picture. The flow throughout is good with great character development. . . . I would recommend This Christmas as warm tale of finding love it is a good book [cozy] up in a blanket and read."

Becky on Books - Excerpt

Removing his hands from her hair, he rested one on each cheek, gently cupping her face.

The smooth touch of metal on her skin made her jerk away. She didn’t have to see his left hand to know he still wore his wedding ring. She struggled for breath and the right words, finally pulling away.

Books & Benches - Excerpt

Celia bit her tongue, knowing how strongly Luke disliked Kenna’s interest in welding and art. But Kenna was at an age when she had her entire life spread out before her. She could take chances, and someday soon, she’d fly. “She’s a good daughter. You’re right, though, about her not being with you forever. I come home to an empty house after school, and sometimes, the quiet is more unnerving than when I’d walk into a house full of fighting boys.”

“I’m fine with being alone.” Luke’s blue eyes darkened, turning the color of the sky at twilight.


“Dad test?” Kenna set down the piece of copper on the workbench in order to pet her dog, whose large frame sat on her feet. “Do I even want to know?”

“I’m a cop and a Marine veteran. No, you don’t want to know what I have planned.” Luke walked over to the old radio and turned up the volume. A modern country melody filled the space. “If you were back at Stanford, you could date without interference from your overprotective dad.”


After reading for about forty-five minutes, Celia’s eyes grew tired. A large cup of coffee from the lodge café would rouse her. Just as she was about to stand, a tall man wearing a beaten Stetson entered through the lobby’s front doors. At the sight of Luke Veldkamp, her breath hitched in her throat and her body went on high alert. If her heart didn’t slow down, she might end up with a cracked rib. She lightly pressed her fist on the hallow of her chest in an attempt to calm her heart rate.

Wishful Endings - Review

"THIS CHRISTMAS is a story of letting go of grief and learning to open your heart again. It's about family loyalty. It's also about fighting for new beginnings and love. An overall sweet story for romance lovers."

Lisa's Reading - Excerpt

Downtown Polaris was bustling with activity. Most of the small shops on Main Street had closed for the night, but the restaurants and bars were well lit and drawing large crowds of tourists. Strands of Christmas lights hung on every building, and a massive, decorated pine tree was placed at the entrance to the city park. The holiday cheer mocked him. He calculated the cost of electricity. So many better ways that money could be put to use.


Celia went through the entire store, showing every worker Alex’s photo and asking if they recalled seeing him yesterday. Each Alpines associate was friendly, but none had remembered her tall, dark-haired son. For as busy as the store was, she didn’t blame them. But all she needed was one person to have paid attention to Alex yesterday. One person who’d spoken with him or remembered him leaving the store. Each second she wasted hunting down clues delayed finding her son. Alex could be stuck somewhere, injured and waiting for help.

Bookworm Lisa - Excerpt

Celia strode away from Luke and toward Andrew. How could she have gotten swept up in her longing for affection and passion that she almost let herself fall for Luke Veldkamp? His heart and soul were as boarded-up as a beach town during a hurricane.

“What’s he doing here?” Andrew scowled. “And why is your face so red, Mom? Maybe you should sit. You look ready to fall over.”

I'm Into Books - Excerpt

Back inside his truck, he caught a whiff of Celia’s floral scent. His blood warmed in response, and his chest tightened. Focus on your job. Which, as of now, was Celia. And his mind looped back to her.

The roads in town had been cleared, but as soon as he reached the mountain pass leading to the cabin, conditions grew worse. His four-wheel-drive truck struggled in spots, and he drove slow and steady. The last thing he needed now was to send his truck, along with himself, over a cliff. Normally, the trip took about forty-five minutes. Today, he white-knuckled it for an hour and a half before reaching the driveway to the cabin.

Harlie's Books - Review

"It’s a beautifully written book about dealing with loss, new love, and realizing that your adult children aren’t children anymore. . . . The suspense part of the book is top-notch. It is what drives the plot. Plausible and tension-filled at times but not over the top. Ms. Winter does an excellent job of keeping the tension up while keeping the book character-driven and the potential romances in the front. She blends it seamlessly for me as a reader. You know me, I’m a huge romantic suspense reader so for an author to do that, I’m hooked."


“You lost him so young.” Kenna rested a hand on her shoulder.

“Yes, he was.” Celia wondered how he’d look now, if he’d lived to see his forties. Would his hair have turned silver early, like his dad’s? Would he have had to work out to keep the extra weight from creeping on, like she did, or would he have kept his youthful metabolism? “Luis and I didn’t wait for someday. We had a good life together, even if it was too short.”


Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Her heart beat increased in speed, along with her running pace. With fumbling gloved fingers, she reached inside the hoodie pocket for her cell phone. It slipped out of her grasp and onto the ground. She skidded to a stop and picked up her phone with a trembling hand. The sound of heavy breathing made bile rise in her throat. If she didn’t make it back to the beginning of the trail and out into the open soon, she might never get back.


"This is a super story. I loved the intrigue and mystery in the story. I like the family dynamics with Celia and it was interesting to follow Luke's emotional ups and downs. . . . I highly recommend this story to those who enjoy mystery and great romance."

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post...

This Christmas
(The North Star Series #1)
By Laurie Winter
Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Paperback & ebook, 240Pages
October 20, 2020

'A beautiful story of loss and new love, set in a snow-capped mountain ski resort town.'

Celia Batista waited a long time for all three of her sons to be together for Christmas. But after one of her identical twins disappears without a trace, Celia must rely on Police Captain Luke Veldkamp for help. Despite Luke’s accusations that her other twin son is involved with organized crime, she falls for the handsome, Stetson wearing cop.

Luke Veldkamp is facing his first Christmas after the loss of his wife, working nonstop to avoid the holidays and his grief. His daughter, who’d moved home to care for her mom before her passing, pushes him to face his pain. Luke pushes back, telling her to return to college and regain her own life. If his own strife isn’t enough, the mission to locate the missing son of his beautiful neighbor grows more personal than any other case.

While Luke and Celia fight to keep their families from falling apart, they find comfort and strength in one another. And when love blooms between their children, Luke and Celia’s own relationship takes root and grows. But Celia is used to living on her own terms, and loving a man who has isolated his heart is a risk too great. Now, Luke must either confront his emotions or face a life without the woman he’s come to love.

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About the Author


Laurie Winter’s head has always been full of stories. Then a dream gave her the inspiration to put her thought into written words, sharing a part of her heart and soul. Now, she creates authentic characters who overcome the odds and find true love. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband, daughter, and rescue dog. Please connect with me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Bookbub.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive a Loqi Reusable Shopping Bag with birds design, Soy Wax Candle - Snowflake and a $25 Amazon gift card (US only)

Ends October 28, 2020

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