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Book Review: Deceptions of the Heart by Denise Moncrief
Chick Lit Review

Book Review: Deceptions of the Heart by Denise Moncrief

I received a copy of Deceptions of the Heart by Denise Moncrief in exchange for an honest review.
Summary

What would you do if one morning you awoke in someone else’s body? Surviving as Jennifer Cristobal isn’t easy for Rhonda Prentiss. Three years ago, a sudden, fatal trauma stripped Rhonda of her middle-class, stay-at-home mom existence. A brand new shock prompts Rhonda’s essence to invade Jennifer’s soul, suppressing the other woman’s memories and replacing them with her own. When Jennifer’s heart transplant surgeon, Dr. Crane, can’t—or won’t—help her understand her unusual body-swapping dilemma, she turns to the only man she can trust. But can she fully trust Jennifer’s husband, Anson? Multiple threats from her past shake her fragile hold on mental stability. If one of her enemies succeeds, he will kill Rhonda’s soul… or Jennifer’s body… or both.
My Review:

This book was a lot of fun and I thoroughly enjoyed the twist that Denise presents on a story that is often retold. I think Denise does a wonderful job at creating very real characters with a lot of heart and I definitely felt every emotion that was the main character feels. I finished the book in a few days and I was completely enthralled in the story and couldn’t read the book fast enough. I was wrapped up in all the twists and turns and definitely surprised by the ending. Overall, this book is a quick, entertaining and very suspenseful read. It will definitely leave you rethinking things once you finish. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a suspenseful read.

February 5, 2013
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In My Mailbox: Week of February 3
Chick Lit Plus

In My Mailbox: Week of February 3

In Samantha’s Mailbox:

love-in-translationTitle: Love in Translation

Author: Sara Palacios

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: Still reeling from an unexpected breakup, Emily nurses her broken heart by spending time with her best friends and taking one-too-many vodka shots. After one long night, she takes a hard look inside herself and doesn’t like what she sees. She realizes that she has sacrificed too much in her failed relationships from the past and vows to never settle for anything less than almost-perfect again. As she picks up the pieces and regains her confidence, a sexy Spanish chef moves in across the hall and knocks her off her feet. What ensues is an unexpected and tantalizing affair that opens her eyes – and her heart – to a whole new world and leaves her feeling sexier than she has ever felt. Emily finally sees how easy love is supposed to be. Is happily-ever-after actually possible? Just when she starts to think so, she realizes that sometimes life gets more complicated before it gets easier. And complicated is an understatement when Steven (her best and oldest friend in the world) confesses his love for her. Everything spirals out of control as Emily must make a choice between love and friendship, and in doing so, possibly risk it all.

LOVE IN TRANSLATION is a modern day love story about following your heart to unexpected places and taking chances in life … because sometimes you will find exactly what you are looking for.

swanTitle: Swan Story

Author: Priya Narendran

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: Soon to be married Daniel Macgregor meets mysterious beauty Sarah Mitchell on the day his father gives him a ballet company as a present. Although at first reluctant to take responsibility, he changes his mind when he realizes Sarah dances for the same company. Over the course of the production of “Swan Lake” they fall head over heels in love. Unknown to Daniel, Sarah is cursed to turn into a swan from sunset to sunrise and only true love will break the spell. So it makes Sarah wonder, what will happen when he finds out what she is.

eighty eightTitle: Eighty-Eight Keys

Author: Catherine Lavender

Received: Via CLP Blog Tours

Synopsis: Leah is a young woman who is trying to break free from a strict religious background and pursue her dream as a pianist in the world of show business. While trying to find her independence her heart is held captive by Jason Rowe a local basketball star who established an organization to help troubled youth. When Jason is found murdered in his home, Leah is determined to get answers from a closed investigation. During her state of emotional turmoil, Leah finds comfort not only in the melody of her music, but in the arms of a married man named Calvin. With her dreams at her fingertips, Leah is tangled in a web of lies and deceit. Despite the fear of learning the truth, Leah has to realize that only the truth can set her free.

A dead lover, with a trail of broken hearts…
A married man, with a double-life…
A dream chaser, with a killer at her heels…
A piano, with eighty-eight keys…

katieTitle: A French Affair

Author: Katie Fforde

Received: Randomhouse

Synopsis: Gina and Sally Makepiece have inherited a stall in the French House – an antiques centre nestled in the heart of the English countryside.

Gina is determined to drag the French House and its grumpy owner into the twenty-first century. Bearing all the attributes of a modern-day Mr Rochester, Matthew Ballinger is less than happy with the whirlwind that has arrived on his doorstep.

The last thing either of them want is to fall in love.

But will a trip to France change their minds?

Essex GirlsTitle: Essex Girls

Author: Laura Ziepe

Received: Avon

Synopsis: You can take the girl out of Essex …

You’ll be well jel over the adventures of three good-hearted, strong-willed, fake-baked Essex Girls. Fun, fresh and always ream, this novel Perfect for fans of TOWIE and the novels of Katie Price.

Jade did everything she could to fit in at university – toned down her tan, gave up on her favourite fake lashes, swapped designer dresses for jeans. And it seemed to make her boyfriend Tom happy. But obviously not quite happy enough.
When Jade finds Tom’s been cheating she heads home: to Essex. Reunited with her best mates Kelly and Lisa, even a night out at The Sugar Hut isn’t enough to put a smile back on her face. So they hatch a plan to get away from it all, to a place so ream it’s unreal – Marbella. Sun, sea, men, vajazzles: what could possibly go wrong?

In Sara’s Mailbox:

mooseTitle: The One-Way Bridge

Author: Cathie Pelletier

Received: Source Books

Synopsis: Cathie Pelletier draws readers back to the beloved town of Mattagash, a seemingly quiet New England outpost in Maine. Yet Mattagash is anything but tranquil. While its citizens bicker publicly over small-town theft or their neighbors’ offensive mailboxes, they privately struggle through deeper life issues: scandal, loss, failed ambitions, and the scars of war.

Reaching across the vastness of America and into the jungles of Vietnam, The One-Way Bridge is an unforgettable portrait of loneliness, family, and community—and the kinds of changes we make for love.

white windTitle: A White Wind Blew

Author: James Markert

Received: Source Books

Synopsis: When the body fails, you’ve got two choices. Send a doctor in, or send a prayer up. And if neither works?

You’ll find Dr. Wolfgang Pike at his piano.

Music has always been Wolfgang’s refuge. It’s betraying him now, as he struggles to compose a requiem for his late wife, but surely the right ending will come to him. Certainly it’ll come more quickly than a cure for his patients up at Waverly Hills, the tuberculosis hospital, where nearly a body an hour leaves in a coffin. Wolfgang can’t seem to save anyone these days, least of all himself.

Sometimes we just need to know we’re not the only ones in the fight. A former concert pianist checks in, triggering something deep inside Wolfgang, and spreading from patient to patient. Soon Wolfgang finds himself in the center of an orchestra that won’t give up, with music that won’t stop. A White Wind Blew delivers a sweeping crescendo of hope in a time of despair, raising compelling questions about faith and confession, music and medicine,and the undying force of love.

February 3, 2013
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Book Review: The Love of My (Other) Life by Traci L. Slatton
Chick Lit Review

Book Review: The Love of My (Other) Life by Traci …

I received a copy of The Love of My (Other) Life by Traci L. Slatton in exchange for an honest review.

This book begins with an introduction to Tessa. Tessa is a struggling painter who has been left behind by her husband with tons of bills that need to be paid. Over the years she has made some serious missteps in her career but hopes to eventually turn that around. Then, we meet Brian Tennyson. He is smart and funny and he really takes a whole of her … but he claims to be from another universe. And, he says that in their universe, they’re actually married. So, what’s a girl to do? Tessa’s world gets thrown upside down as she tries to find the truth and really begins to wonder about second chances and fate vs. coincidence. Are the two in fact soul-mates?

I was so interested when I first read the synopsis for the book and slightly thought it would read like a sci-fi novel. Well, if you are worried like I was, there is no need because this book is too cute for words. I instantly felt the spark when Tessa and Brian met and although it sounds odd, I believed him when he was he was from another universe from the get-go. This book is a riot and I really enjoyed it. I loved the conversations and the heart-felt-moments between the two main characters and I thought Traci did an amazing job at creating such likeable characters. Overall, this book is a winner and a fun ride!

February 1, 2013
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Book Review: The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen by Syrie James
Chick Lit Review

Book Review: The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen by Syrie …

I received a copy of The Missing Manuscript of Jane Austen by Syrie James in exchange for an honest review.

The book begins as Samantha McDonough stumbles upon a letter tucked away in an uncut page of a two-hundred-year old poetry book. She instantly recognizes the salutation, the handwriting, and the content as an old piece from the infamous Jane Austen. Although the discovery is quite amazing, Samantha finally reads the letter and the content is even better – it claims that there is a missing manuscript that went missing at Greenbriar. Samantha racks her brain and can’t believe what she has just found, so she takes it upon herself and goes on a hunt for the missing MS. Afterall, it could be worth millions. Will she find it? And will it be all that she imagined?

The second I received the review request for this book, I instantly knew that I was going to love it – and I was right! A book about a missing Jane Austen manuscript? I was hooked instantly. This book was written really well and I loved the mystery and the suspense element that the author provides. I was fully invested in the hunt right along with Samantha and was so excited to see how the story unfolded. Overall, this book is a really fun ride with a great twist once you throw Anthony into the mix. I highly recommend this fun tale!

Rating: 4.5 stars

February 1, 2013
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CLP Blog Tours Book Review: SkinnyTinis by Teresa Marie Howes
Chick Lit Review

CLP Blog Tours Book Review: SkinnyTinis by Teresa Marie Howes

I received a copy of SkinnyTinis by Teresa Marie Howes from CLP Blog Tours in exchange for an honest review.

SkinnyTinis is a cocktail recipe book with more than 70 recipes. For people watching their weight, this book is perfect because Teresa has gone through drink favorites and thinified them … and now they rake in around 142 calories each. The recipes still offer the same great taste as the traditional (and full calorie) alternatives, yet you won’t have the guilt that goes along with them.

Oh boy, I was so excited when I received my SkinnyTinis in the mail. Ironically, my mother-in-law was in town and I had just purchased a few bottles of alcohol, so I had some assistance in taste testing. By far my favorite was the Skinny Cosmopolitan (which is one of my go-to-drinks when out on the town) and I absolutely loved how quick and easy all of the recipes were. Now, I am not that big of a drinker so I have only tried a few, but so far, the ones that I have tried have been delicious and light. I also really enjoyed the great photographs that accompanied each recipe and I really loved that the book was so colorful. I have already recommended this book to a few gal pals and I will continue to do so. Thank you so much Teresa for doing the research and creating skinny solutions for my favorite mixed drinks. I love this book! A new bar staple!

Rating: 5 stars

January 31, 2013
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Book Review: The Typewriter Girl by Alison Atlee
Chick Lit Review

Book Review: The Typewriter Girl by Alison Atlee

I received a copy of THE TYPEWRITER GIRL by Alison Atlee in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:

When Betsey disembarks from the London train in the seaside resort of Idensea, all she owns is a small valise and a canary in a cage. After attempting to forge a letter of reference she knew would be denied her, Betsey has been fired from the typing pool of her previous employer. Her vigorous protest left one man wounded, another jilted, and her character permanently besmirched. Now, without money or a reference for her promised job, the future looks even bleaker than the debacle behind her. But her life is about to change . . . because a young Welshman on the railroad quay, waiting for another woman, is the one man willing to believe in her.

Mr. Jones is inept in matters of love, but a genius at things mechanical. In Idensea, he has constructed a glittering pier that astounds the wealthy tourists. And in Betsey, he recognizes the ideal tour manager for the Idensea Pier & Pleasure Building Company. After a lifetime of guarding her secrets and breaking the rules, Betsey becomes a force to be reckoned with. Now she faces a challenge of another sort: not only to outrun her sins, but also to surrender to the reckless tides of love. . . .
My Review:

I thought this book was a lot of fun and felt instantly taken back into the past. I loved Betsey from the get go and was so excited to finally get to read such a strong and forceful female literary character (it has been a while) and I love that she truly fights for what she wants. The chemistry between Betsey and Mr. Jones definitely took hold of me during my reading and I was so eager to get to the end, only to be disappointed that the book was over and I wouldn’t be able to read anymore. Overall, this book is really well written and very well researched. A true gem and quite historical. I would definitely recommend it.
Rating: 4 stars

January 30, 2013
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Q&A (and giveaway) with Polly Williams – Author of Afterwife
Chick Lit Authors

Q&A (and giveaway) with Polly Williams – Author of Afterwife

Chick Lit Plus is so excited to feature a Q&A with author, Polly Williams. She wrote AFTERWIFE, which got a 5 star review last week. Leave a comment below to be entered to win a copy of AFTERWIFE. One winner will be chosen at random on Friday, Feb 1st at 7AM.

When did you know writing was for you?

As far back as I can remember. I wrote stories and poetry from an early age – I still have the books now – which seems very industrious. But I grew up with three noisy brothers and I think writing and reading were what I did to escape into my own quieter girlie world. I studied English literature at university and went on to work as a journalist before writing my first novel. Writing has always been a major part of my life.
How would you describe your book?

I think Afterwife is a love story about a love that just won’t die.
What was the hardest part of the writing process for you?

I always get about a third of the way into a book and have a crisis. It’s rubbish! The characters don’t work! I have no idea what’s going to happen next! But I make myself work through it. So far, all my books have come together in the end. But often it’s not until the very end, so I have to keep the faith.
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you as an author?

That I make a very good apple pie. I love to cook. I love to eat. I feel like cooking is the opposite of writing, it uses a different part of the brain. That’s why it’s relaxing to me.
What does your daily schedule look like?

Kids jump on head in morning. (I have three, aged four, five and nine.) Mad breakfast rush. Dash to school. Strong coffee. Pootle through the papers online. Write until three. Pick up kids. Put Mom hat on again.
What would be your advice to aspiring writers?


Write.
What is your favorite book?

It changes all the time. My recent favourite book is Jeanette Winterson’s brilliant memoir, Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal?

Favorite movie?



A Room With a View starring Helena Bonham Carter.
Who is your favorite literary character?



Elizabeth Bennett from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice.
Who is your writing inspiration?



Anne Frank.
What is your must have beauty product?

Sleep.
What advice would you give yourself ten years ago?

Stop doubting yourself, get on with it.

Any words of wisdom?

You can’t write a book when you’re dead!

January 29, 2013
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CLP Blog Tours Book Review: Mad World: Sanctuary by Samaire Provost
Chick Lit Review

CLP Blog Tours Book Review: Mad World: Sanctuary by Samaire …

I received a copy of Mad World: Sanctuary by Samaire Provost in exchange for an honest review by CLP BLOG TOURS.

Mad World: Sanctuary begins in the year 2017, and the Black Plague infection has now swept across most of the US, leaving countless deaths and chaos in its wake. Outbreaks continue to crop up .. and more often in areas where they are least expected. Several years after the first installment in this series, the same characters find themselves grown up facing adult realities, while at the same time, dealing with an absolute Mad World. The main characters head north in hopes of finding a sanctuary, but along the way, they face worsening odds and terrible hardships, and they fight to stay alive and protect one another. Will they find the fabled sanctuary and be safe at last? Or will they spend their every moment fighting to stay safe and alive?

Wow! I was so excited to start the second book in this series that I read this one right after I finished the first. This book is definitely gritty and scary most of the time. Yes, I am a huge wimp and I had a few nightmares from reading, but I just couldn’t put it down. There are so many heart racing scenes throughout the book that you can actually see what is happening throughout the book. Once again, Samaire does such a wonderful job at creating such real characters with real feelings as they face the terrible world in 2017. I felt for the characters in Epidemic but found myself really reeled in for them this time. Overall, a fantastic read if you like anything having to do with these types of situation. I highly recommend it and can’t wait to see what Samaire produces next!
Rating: 4.5 stars

Samaire ProvostAuthor Bio:

Born naked. Clothed and fed shortly thereafter by adoring parents who looked on in bemusement as their daughter became a reading, writing, free-spirited, feral, animal loving, bleeding-heart chocolate lover who laughs easily. Samaire Provost is a California writer of Young Adult novels. Her love of paranormal stories, odd plots, and unique tales as well as C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, E.A.Poe, Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett, and Stephen King has deeply influenced her writing.

Connect with Samaire!

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/samairep
Twitter – https://twitter.com/samaireherself
Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6453849.Samaire_Provost
Amazon author page – http://www.amazon.com/Samaire-Provost/e/B008PVTXMW
Amazon book page-
http://www.amazon.com/Mad-World-SANCTUARY-ebook/dp/B0093RSLUW/
Blog – http://samaireprovost.tumblr.com/
sanctuary button

January 29, 2013
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CLP Blog Tours Book Review: The Darling Girls by Emma Burstall
Chick Lit Review

CLP Blog Tours Book Review: The Darling Girls by Emma …

I was provided with a copy of THE DARLING GIRLS by Emma Burstall in exchange for an honest review by CLP BLOG TOURS.

The Darling Girls by Emma Burstall begins as Leo, a world famous conductor, dies and his three lovers meet for the first time at his funeral. The three women realize that they have an abdundant amount of unanswered questions and wonder about the man who was capable of juggling his brilliant career and his secrets all at the same time, whilst none of them ever had a clue.

Victoria, his partner of twenty years and mother of two of his children, relishes the fact that she thinks she knew Leo best, but when secrets start to come forward, she begins to question whether or not she knew him in the first place. Maddy, mother of Phoebe, is a typical career woman who creates trouble of her own when she becomes involved with someone off limits. And then there is Cat, the youngest of the trio. She is dealing with some emotional family issues and seems to be the most wounded of the three. All three of the “Darling Girls” couldn’t be more different … but you soon realize that they couldn’t be more alike as well.

The Darling Girls is a heartbreaking story that touches on loss, heartache, love and friendship and I absolutely adored every second of it. Emma magically orchestrates the tale of the three women in a way that makes them like puppets in the grand scheme of things in Leo’s world, and you wonder if he will forever control their worlds. Luckily for us, and for the trio, everything works out for the best, but we see how connected everything in the story truly is. I found myself putting pieces of the puzzle together until the very end. Beautifully written, heartbreaking and honest – a truly magical tale.
Rating: 5 stars

January 28, 2013
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