The Bachelor Auction by Rachel Van Dyken will be released on October 4th, but... did you know you can pre-order your own paperback for a January delivery?
Cassandra Webb’s every waking minute is devoted to being a great mother and wife. She takes five-year-old Noah to the library each week, volunteers in his kindergarten class, and even coaches his soccer team. She makes sure her husband’s uniforms are always laundered—even though he hasn’t worn them the last six years—always has his game day snacks on hand, and meets him for date night every Friday—which consists of one sided conversations at his bedside and watching his favorite take out remain untouched.
Pearl, a mysterious visitor at the care center, suggests that it is only Cassie’s love still tying Devon to Earth when he has been ready to move onto Heaven for quite some time. If Cassie will but open her eyes and heart, she will discover the path she should travel, one that will bring relief to Devon and much joy to her own life. But Cassie vowed never to give up on him. She never has and she can’t now, even after meeting hapless, single soccer-dad Matt.
Jewelz Review~ Another wonderful addition to the Matchmaker Series! The story of Cassie and Matt is one that truly pulls at the hearstrings. Both have suffered horrible losses and both deserve a new chance at true love. But the timing has to be right. Even though they're perfect for each other, when they meet it isn't the right time for either of them to fall in love and pursue a serious relationship. I love that they were able to form a wonderful, deep friendship and help one another before they developed a romantic relationship. Of course, their circumstances (particularly Cassie's) had a lot to do with their long friendship, but that solid foundation allowed for them to have an even more meaningful romantic relationship in my opinion.
So often (especially in romance novels) relationships move from a physical attraction to love, marriage, and happily ever after without any foundation. Is this realistic? I suppose some couples do this and I suspect that most of those relationships don't last very long. In reality, couples need a deep and abiding friendship along with the romance and physical attraction for the relationship to last. And this is what Cassie and Matt have.
My heart broke for Cassie and for Devon. I know that everything worked out as it should and it was clear that Devon was happy, but oh how my heart hurt for them. Cassie couldn't have been much more devoted, and I can't imagine facing the decisions she did.
I loved that Pearl played a more active role in this story than the last couple books. She was perfect.
If you have enjoyed the Matchmaker Series - be sure to pick up this edition. Your heart will be touch.
honest disclosure ~ I received a copy in exchange for my honest review
“What?” Bentley shrugged then smoothly walked over to Jane and pulled out a box of black high-heeled pumps in a size eight and a half. “Your foot, milady?”
Brock rolled his eyes. “Give it a rest, Bentley. She can put on her own damn shoes.”
Bentley completely ignored him. “I love a woman’s foot.” He grabbed Jane’s broken shoe and tossed it to the side while his hands danced along the arch of her foot. His fingertips danced along her skin. Seduction by foot rub? That was new.
“It’s sexy, the arch.” He leaned over her, his lips parting just enough to give her the impression he was thinking about kissing her. “The curve of a woman’s foot reminds me of her body…see? Sexy.” He slid the shoe on a very terrified looking Jane and stood. “Perfect fit.”
Jane’s mouth opened then closed as a rosy flush crept over her face. “Th-thank you.”
“I bought you my favorite brand.”
Her eyebrows arched. How did he know about Manolo Blahnik? “Oh.” And then she nodded and said loudly, “Ohhhh! That makes sense!”
“You wearing them,” she explained. “That’s great. I mean, good for you. I’m sorry I’m so awkward at things like this, but it’s good you’re…you know…” She bobbed her head and sputtered. “Out and…comfortable with it.”
“Out?” Bentley repeated. “I’m confused.”
“Of the closet,” she said slowly then saw the scowl on Bentley’s face. “Or maybe you just like to dress like a woman?” She straightened her shoulders and tried again. “In either case, congratulations on your choice to wear women’s clothing!”
Brock about died laughing as Bentley’s horrified expression went from stunned to genuine confusion.
“You heard her.” Brock held his laughter in check. “Congratulations, brother. I’ll take care of the press release: Bachelor Playboy Bentley Wellington and his private women’s shoe collection.”
Bentley let out a strangled laugh. “Yes, and while we’re at it why don’t we remind the press that the clock is ticking on that auction of yours? Hmm?”
“Auction?” Jane asked.
“Don’t.” Brock shook his head. “You don’t want to know.”
“But she probably already does.” Bentley pointed out. “Unless she doesn’t read the news…?”
They both stared at her, waiting for an answer.
“I, uh…” She ducked her head, blushing again. “I read books.”
“How pure.” Bentley smiled and sat down next to her. “And just so we’re clear.” He leaned in as though he was going to kiss her. “My bat only swings one way…and I can assure you, every time I get thrown a pitch, I hit it out of the park.”
Jane isn't entirely sure that Cinderella got such a raw deal. Sure, she had a rough start, but didn't she eventually land a prince and a happily-ever-after? Meanwhile, Jane is busy waiting on her demanding, entitled sisters, running her cleaning business, and . . . yep, not a prince in sight. Until a party and a broken shoe incident leave Jane wondering if princes---or at least, a certain deliciously hunky billionaire---maybe do exist.
Except Brock Wellington isn't anyone's dream guy. Hell, a prince would never agree to be auctioned off in marriage to the highest bidder. Or act like an arrogant jerk---even if it was just a façade. Now, as Brock is waiting for the auction chopping block, he figures it's karmic retribution that he's tempted by a sexy, sassy woman he can't have. But while they can't have a fairy-tale ending, maybe they can indulge in a little bit of fantasy . .
About the Author:
Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she's not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.
She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!
We just had a fantastic release with Author Donna Hatch ... and now we get another one! I am beyond ecstatic! I love her books and I'm excited to share each and every one.
As a little recap - let's take a look at the previous books we've featured for Donna's before we see her newest addition!
And she has even more books we have not featured! Be sure to check them out!
And now ... On to the cover reveal starting with our author!
Donna Hatch is the author of the best-selling “Rogue Hearts Series,” and a winner of writing awards such as The Golden Quill and the International Digital Award. A hopeless romantic and adventurer at heart, she discovered her writing passion at the tender age of 8 and has been listening to those voices ever since. She has become a sought-after workshop presenter, and also juggles freelance editing, multiple volunteer positions, and most of all, her six children (seven, counting her husband). A native of Arizona who recently transplanted to the Pacific Northwest, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there really is a happily ever after.
Connect with the Author:
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And finally ... let's check out her fantastic new book!
Synopsis:
When charming rake Tristan Barrett sweeps Lady Elizabeth off her feet, stealing both her heart and a kiss in a secluded garden, her brother challenges Tristan to a duel. The only way to save her brother and Tristan from harm—not to mention preserve her reputation—is to get married.
But her father, the Duke of Pemberton, refuses to allow his daughter to marry anyone but a titled lord. The duke demands that Elizabeth marry Tristan’s older brother, Richard, the Earl of Averston. Now Elizabeth must give up Tristan to marry a man who despises her, a man who loves another, a man she’ll never love.
Richard fears Elizabeth is as untrustworthy as his mother, who ran off with another man. However, to protect his brother from a duel and their family name from further scandal, he agrees to the wedding, certain his new bride will betray him. Yet when Elizabeth turns his house upside down and worms her way into his reluctant heart, Richard suspects he can’t live without his new countess. Will she stay with him or is it too little, too late?
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And now ... are you ready to see the wonderful new cover??
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We love it! So sweet! But don't just go on our word, Tell us what you think in the comments below! Then share the fun news and enter the giveaway! And pre-order your copy of this book here: ~ AMAZON ~ AMAZON UK~ ~ AMAZON CA ~ AMAZON AU ~
Genre: Upper Middle Grade/YA romantic fantasy/fairy tale
Publisher: Clean Reads/Astraea Press
Release date: July 28, 2016
Synopsis: Sir James Trueblood is determined to capture a unicorn so he can marry Princess Isadora. The knight begins his quest, not realizing the Princess is following him in disguise. On his journey Sir James encounters a witch and a dragon. With the dragon’s ring his mission is a success, but then he learns the unicorn will die if not set free. Now he has a dilemma; marry the Princess or free the unicorn.
Author Bio: Debra Daugherty is from Central Illinois and is a member of SCBWI, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators. She enjoys living in the country with her two dogs, a Chihuahua named CeCe, and a rescued American Stratford Terrier named Honey. Besides writing children stories, Debra loves to spend time with her family, travel, and browse through antique shops. Publishing credits include CALAMITY CAT, 2013, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, and THE DRAGON’S RING, 2016, Astraea Press/Clean Reads. She’s also had two short stories published in Guardian Angel Kids’e-zine, LET YOUR IMAGINATION SOAR! and THE MYSTERY OF THE GHOSTLY THIEF. In 2015 her children’s story, HEART OF STONE, won first place in the Litchfield Student Educational Foundation’s writing contest.
Book excerpt:The King stood in one corner of the ballroom and kept a close eye on his daughter and her dancing partners. He was hoping one of the young men would win his daughter’s heart.
Sir James was also watching the Princess. With each new partner she took, he imagined her falling in love, and he felt pangs of jealousy. James yearned to dance with the Princess, but felt it would be inappropriate to ask.
King Alfred noticed James standing alone by the doorway, and approached him. “Why are you not dancing, James? There must be one beautiful maiden here who has caught your eye.”
James bowed to his king. “I am an awkward and clumsy dancer, Your Majesty. I do not want to make a fool of myself.”
The King laughed. “Then dance with my daughter. No one would dare call you a fool while in her arms. They would be afraid of offending me.”
“But, Your Majesty,” James protested, but it was too late. As the last dance ended, the King beckoned for Isadora to join them. “Dance with this man,” the King told his daughter.
Isadora was startled by her father’s command. She had wanted to dance with James all evening, but knew he would never ask her because he was not of royal blood. To dance with her would only give him grief. People would point and gossip, and say the knight had overstepped his boundary, but no one would say anything if it was the King’s wish that they dance together.
The music began, and with the King’s permission, James took Princess Isadora’s hand in his and they began to dance. “Dear Princess, I’ll try not to step on your toes, if you promise not to tread on mine,” the knight teased as he twirled her around the room.
Isadora laughed. “My slippers will avoid your heavy leather boots at all costs, and my feet will be most grateful if you keep your word.”
A troubadour, wearing a bright orange, brown, and black costume bearing vertical stripes, with a tam to match, strolled among the dancers, singing a ballad as the orchestra played. It was one Isadora had never heard before, but the words could have been written by her for James.
“My love, my heart I give to thee,
For everlasting keeping.
From this day on thou holds the key,
That saves my soul from weeping.
Pray, pray, remember this,
We sealed our love with a kiss.
And all the heavens and earth shall see
Forever and ever, my love for thee.”
Isadora noticed that the words of the song also seemed to touch James. When he glanced down at her, his eyes flickered, causing her heart to flutter. She knew she loved him. Did he feel the same way toward her? But I am the King’s daughter! He’s but a knight. Even if he did love me, he’d never say.
James held Isadora so tightly in his arms she could scarcely breathe. As they floated around the enormous ballroom, her gown made a rustling sound with every turn they made.
Isadora’s cheeks glowed with a rosy hue as James pulled her even closer. She was usually not a timid person, but tonight she felt shy and weak in his strong arms. She glanced up at her partner. Their eyes locked and their two hearts beat as one.
They made a handsome couple, Isadora in her flowing blue gown and James in his best attire, a deep-blue waistcoat with matching breeches. As the candles on the chandeliers flickered, the diamonds in Isadora’s tiara shimmered, casting shadows of light on the walls.
The music played on and on, and yet it was as if time stood still and they were the only two people in the room. Neither spoke, afraid to break the spell between them, and neither wanted the dance to ever end; but of course, it did.
