One Book Shy of a Full Shelf: December 2015

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Spotlight - Fairly Certain by Deborah Ann Davis + GIVEAWAY

In the spotlight today we have "Fairly Certain" by Deborah Ann Davis A Love of Fairs Tale

TITLE: Fairly Certain (Love of Fairs)

AUTHOR: Deborah Ann Davis

INFO: Fiction, 196 pages

PUBLISHED: D&D Universe, 2014

GENRE: YA Fiction

ABOUT: Fairly Certain is the unlikely adventure of nineteen year old Petir Capota, a computer geek who finds himself back in the days of Robin Hood after falling out of a tree in Connecticut. He awakens surrounded by a band of young British scavengers, clothed as if in Old England. His instinct to freak out is tempered by the arrival of a fair maiden wearing a bow…and arrow. Normally, fair maiden types don’t go for computer geek types, but for some reason, Petir is fairly certain he can do whatever he wants in this realm.

With the conflict of the Royals escalating, Maid Rianne has joined the outlaws hiding in the forest, outwardly defying the handsome and accomplished knight to whom she is promised. She is fairly certain she merely feels flattered by Lord Petir’s uncensored admiration of her skills with the staff and bow, the same unmaidenly pursuits disdained by her own knight. However, that does not explain the quickening of her pulse produced by Lord Petir’s unguarded gaze.

The outlaws bring Petir to their camp to tend his injuries. To Petir’s delight, and to Maid Rianne’s dismay, they invite him to join their merry band. It’s all fun and games until she is captured by the enemy. Now, a geek with no ability to defend himself must find a way to rescue the fair maiden.

EXCERPT: Maid Rianne lifted off Petir in alarm, her arms bracing her from both sides of his body as she hovered just inches away. Although they did not touch, their gazes locked them together as their ragged breathing blended with the night noises. Still she did not retreat.

That was enough of a signal for Petir. He propped himself up high enough to reach her mouth and waited. Her face tilted toward him, and he brushed her lips with his.

Now, that was a tingle.

Magically, she deepened their kiss. She was so warm, and—

“Be sure to check on our guest before you bed down,” directed a male voice from outside the tent.

Maid Rianne’s head shot up. Panic washed across her face as she scrambled to her feet, frantically tugging her clothing and smoothing her hair. The flap of the tent quietly opened, and a head popped in.

“All’s well, Maid Rianne?”

“Yes, yes,” she snapped. “Of course all is well, sir.”

The intruder offered a puzzled look at her waspish tone as she self-consciously straightened her sleeves. He politely tipped his head at Petir, a suspicious glint in his eye. “Very well. Good evening, sir.”

“One moment, sir,” she said, scooping up her belongings. “I shall accompany you,” And just like that, she was gone.

Dazed and elated, Petir flopped back on the pallet, all pain forgotten.

Maid Hottie had actually jumped his bones. Too bad you couldn’t wrap it up in a box and put a bow on it. Now that would make a great birthday present.

Best dream ever!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: DEBORAH ANN DAVIS writes Quirky New/Young Adult Fiction with a Twist. She began writing when searching for inspiration for her 5th grade English Journal. Lo and behold, she found her world was full of funny tales just waiting to be told. As she grew older, it never occurred to her to pursue writing, not even when she discovered her flare for telling stories at college parties.

After a string of undergrad majors, she realized she could reach a captive audience EVERY DAY in the public school system. As you probably know, teenagers love to laugh, and what could be more entertaining than Biology, Earth Science, and Environmental Science? Then there's an added bonus: Once teens know you like to laugh, they want to make you laugh. Go figure.

After a particularly nasty bout of Lyme disease, she turned to Fitness to boost her health, and to Writing to boost her happiness. Currently, she is a healthy and happy Educational Speaker and a Certified Personal Trainer.

Twelve years after their first kiss, Deborah reunited with, and married her childhood sweetheart. Together they coached their daughter's AAU Basketball Team, which swept States two years in a row. (Yay!) Then, for several years, their daughter and their money went to college.

They presently reside on a lovely lake in Connecticut. When she isn't writing novels for her Love of Fairs series, she enjoys dabbling with living a sustainable life, dancing, playing outside, and laughing really hard every day. She also promotes increasing your movement throughout your day as Wiggle Writer in her Merry Meddling blog. You can track Deborah’s meddling on Twitter HERE or HERE. LinkedIn, Facebook, and Goodreads.

Fairly Certain is available through:

IndieBound / Amazon / Smashwords / Kobo / Barnes & Noble / Inktera / bLio

Deborah is giving one lucky reader a $20 gift card to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble. You can easily enter below and then be sure to check out the other tour stops for more excerpts and more ways to enter. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour Stops

1: Long and Short Reviews
2: Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin'
3: T's Stuff
4: Edgar's Books
5: BooksChatter
6: Independent Authors
7: Musings of a Writer
8: One Book Shy of a Full Shelf
9: Christine Young
10: Unabridged Andra
11: Room With Books
12: Books Direct
13: Hope .Dreams. Life... Love
14: Romorror Fan Girl REVIEW
15: 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too!
16: Queen of the Night Reviews
17: Linda Nightingale...Wordsmith
18: Aly's Miscellany
19: Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin'
20: Deal Sharing Aunt
21: Reviews By Crystal
22: Two Ends of the Pen
23: Sapphyria's Book Reviews
24: Wendi Zwaduk ~ Romance to Make Your Heart Race
25: Straight from the Library

~~~~~ Disclaimer: All opinions expressed on this blog are 100% my own. I do not receive monetary compensation for my reviews but do utilize affiliate links. I may receive books in order to facilitate a review, but this does not guarantee a good review - only a completely honest one. Each review post denotes how I obtained the book.

Spotlight - Near the Wild by Maureen Willett

Today we're welcoming author Maureen Willett to One Book Shy as she begins her tour with Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours, showcasing her new book: Near the Wild.

TITLE: Near the Wild

AUTHOR: Maureen Willett

INFO: Fiction, 229 pages

PUBLISHED: Amazon, 2015

GENRE: Historical Fiction

ABOUT: COWBOYS AND LEPRECHAUNS. Both occupy Maeve MacKeighry’s world in 1870, and she must decide which will win her heart. Leprechauns are feared, even in Ireland, but that doesn’t prevent Maeve from striking up a friendship with one who lives near her village. But once Maeve becomes a young woman, the local villagers start to gossip, especially since the MacKeighrys are known to practice magic in their home. It’s just for entertainment, but the town folk don’t see it that way. Rather than be outcasts, the MacKeighrys set off to America to homestead in Kansas, vowing to leave their magical ways and friends behind. Little do they know that Maeve’s friend follows and protects them on their journey.

The MacKeighrys encounter many adventures along the way to Kansas, only to find a simple sod house on their new farm at the end of the journey. The untamed land offers a fresh start for the family, as well as two very interesting men who both compete for Maeve’s attention. Pretty young women in a wild western town are a rarity. But can she forget her magical friend, and turn her attention to two of the most interesting men she has ever met? Perhaps cowboys and outlaws have a certain charm that a leprechaun doesn’t, after all.

Most of the novel takes place in Kansas in 1870 and is based on my family’s history. The idea of the MacKeighry’s sod house came from the home of my great grandfather. I was lucky enough to visit it as a teenager before the house was destroyed. One of the characters, Nikki Fuerst, is based on an ancestor, a prince from Austria who was disinherited for marrying a commoner and sent off to America. Stories I’ve been told my entire life about my family’s history and traditions, such as levitating tables, are included in Near The Wild.

NEAR THE WILD contains mild sexual references and some violence.

Available now at: Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Maureen Willett is a writer of fiction that pushes the boundaries of established genres. Her stories mostly come from her own family legends that have been passed down through generations, but then she tops them off with a twist of faery dust and angel wings. But at the core of each story are great characters in very human conflicts that anyone will find compelling. Each novel is crafted as an experience that will take readers beyond their day-to-day lives, incorporating themes of time travel, reincarnation, and magic. She is a former journalist, public relations professional, and media marketing specialist. Maureen lives in Hawaii with her family and walks the white-sand beaches of Oahu each day to get her inspiration for writing.

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

Interview & Spotlight - Reason to Wed by Heather Boyd

Spotlight: REASON TO WED by Heather Boyd Book Seven, Distinguished Rogues Series Release Date: December 8, 2015 Genre: Regency Historical Romance

Heat Rating: Sizzling

Richard Hill, the Earl of Windermere, might desperately require a wife and heir, but thoughts of duty fly from his mind when he rescues Esme, Lady Heathcote, from the embarrassment of a failed affair. They usually never agree about anything. He’s never even kissed the vexing widow. But when the opportunity arises to whisk her away for a no-strings-attached rendezvous, Richard can’t imagine a better way to spend a moonlit evening. Esme has never lacked for admirers, but having Lord Windermere’s company goes a long way to ease the pain of losing her suddenly betrothed lover. And when Windermere suggests an affair, Esme is intrigued by the blazing-hot connection even while knowing their relationship has no future beyond his house party. But as with any temptation, it’s a bargain they’ll soon regret.

Read an Excerpt The hallway beyond the drawing room was filled to bursting with chattering guests and she moved smoothly through them, nodding and speaking occasionally to some. While she admired the elegance and comforts to be found in Lord Windermere’s home, she kept her eye out for Meriwether. She turned into the library, but the room was startlingly empty. “Looking for me?” Windermere asked as he came to stand near. His gaze raked her from head to toe in the most gauche way. Arrogant and presumptuous. “Hardly. You should pay more attention to your guests and the health of your servants.” Instead of taking the hint that she wasn’t in the mood to talk, he caught her hand and raised it to his lips. His blue eyes danced with amusement. “I do love when you’re friendly. How have you been, Esme?” She scowled at him and withdrew her hand to her side. “I’ve not given you leave to use my first name and I am not of a mood to spar with you. Go back to your other guests for amusement and send your butler to his bed. Anyone can see he’s on the verge of collapse tonight.” “I already banished Oswin to rest.” He laughed suddenly. “Young Pip has assumed his duties until Collins comes up.” “Just as well,” she replied, thankful for such sensible decisions at last. “Only you would ever dare tell me what to do in my own home. I wanted to thank you for coming,” Windermere murmured. “But to convince everyone we’re not at odds, you will have to talk to me occasionally with a little less acid in your tone.” “We’ve spoken as much as needed to quell any gossip.” She smiled at him. “Or was it your wish to have me chivvy you out of your mopes too.” “I will say again you were right.” Windermere sighed and raked a hand through his dark, wavy hair. “You’re enjoying rubbing my nose in that business with Lady Bartlett, aren’t you?” “Perhaps.” She smothered a laugh. He hadn’t wanted to believe he was being used until it was almost too late to extract himself from the connection. “You were so indignant that day, and after venting your pique at me, you charged down the street—on foot of all things, my man and your horse trailing after. I laughed for at least a whole day afterward. But I am sorry you were let down.” He inhaled sharply, his jaw clenching before he relaxed and shook his head. “No, you’re not. You’re positively gloating that you were proved right about her.”

Links Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Add to Goodreads Shelf

About Heather Boyd

Bestselling historical author Heather Boyd believes every character she creates deserves their own happily-ever-after, no matter how much trouble she puts them through. With that goal in mind, she writes sizzling regency romance stories that skirt the boundaries of propriety to keep readers enthralled until the wee hours of the morning. Heather has published over twenty novels and shorter works. Catch her latest news www.heather-boyd.com. She lives north of Sydney, Australia, and does her best to wrangle her testosterone-fuelled family (including cat Morpheus) into submission. Connect with Heather: Website | Twitter | Facebook Page | Mailing list

I'd like to welcome Heather to One Book Shy today as she tours the blogosphere for the next two weeks. I had a chance to ask her a few questions.

Do you get more enjoyment out of creating heroes or villains?

I love writing heroes. Men are strange and fascinating creatures.

Where is your favorite place to write?

I work best at home and I have an office that I work in most of the time, but I like to vary where I write to avoid boredom and stay comfortable. If it’s a cold day, you might find me tucked up in bed with a laptop. On a hot day, I’m in the coolest room in the house.

Do you have any specific ‘rituals’ when you’re creating/writing?

Not really. I need to be comfortable (chair, clothing, water on hand) and my family needs to go away so I can get lost in the story I’m writing. That’s about as complicated as I get.

Tell us about your favorite literary character (can be your own or other, or both!)

I’ve always loved Jane Austen’s Anne Elliott. The woman who waited so long for her hero. I’ve re-read that story a lot.

What are three things you can’t be without?

Internet, coffee and my diary.

What are you currently working on?

At the moment I’m working on a new series of books that will release in the second quarter of 2016. At this very early stage there are no firm book titles or series name chosen as yet. That will come later when I’ve finished the first draft of the first book and start work on the second story. What I can share is that the new series will boast dashing naval heroes, damsels in demand, and plenty of sexy time. I’m upping the heat for this series and love pushing the boundaries of regency era propriety. Keep watch on my blog for news of the series exact release date.

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Review - Improper Wager by Kristabel Reed + GIVEAWAY

Up for review today, a new first in a series by Kristabel Reed: Improper Wager

TITLE: Improper Wager

AUTHOR: Kristabel Reed

INFO: Romantic Fiction, 248 pages

PUBLISHED: CreateSpace, 2015

SOURCE: Received from Publisher for Review

ABOUT: Two years ago, Isabella Harrington defied her parents and society, and ran off with her lover to Milan. They thought they’d conquer the world at the gaming tables. But her dream of happily-ever-after led to nothing but debts and a shattered heart.

Abandoned and left on her own in a foreign city with little but her wits and skill, Isabella managed to survive. Survive and thrive, commanding the cards until she won enough to send for a very particular matchmaker.

Isabella needed a way back into the society she shunned and what better way than through a proper, aristocratic marriage? And this matchmaker of note would be her key back home to England.

Traveling the Continent, Jonathon, Duke of Strathmore, agreed to meet the mysterious Miss Harrington. Wary of the rumors surrounding her, a woman who vanished from London with only scandalous tales left in her wake, he hadn’t counted on the intriguing Isabella to thoroughly capture his attention.

Will a game of cards change both their fates? Will she become a mistress or a duchess?

EXCERPT: “I’ve observed you this evening,” he said as they stepped outside.

“I’m well aware,” she said with the control that so fascinated him.

He raised his eyebrow and bit back a smile. Oh, that restrained passion captivated him. “I’d no idea you were so skilled at the games,” he said instead, leading her carefully along.

Watching her, he had the feeling she knew his game and didn’t rise to the bait. Jonathon bit back another smile.

“You didn’t give me an opportunity to show you the other night,” she said with a small grin that was more pride in her talents than interest.

But her gaze remained steady on his, darker in the shadowed balcony. Miss Harrington stood straight, with none of the deference normally given a duke. And none of the deference a woman in need of a suitable match to return to England ought to show.

She fascinated him all the more.

“And if I’m ready now?” His voice lowered, and Jonathon didn’t fool himself when he saw her breath hitch.

Her smile turned predatory. “I wouldn’t mind relieving you of the coin from your purse.”

He leaned closer and lowered his voice again. He watched her, knowing she followed his every move and was not unaffected. “Money holds no interested as a wager.”

She raised her own eyebrow in question. “You wish to make it a more interesting evening, then?”

“What terms would you suggest,” he asked softly, his breath a caress along her cheek, “to make it more stimulating?”

MY TAKE: This is a fun story with a lot of give and take between the characters. I enjoyed watching them (Jonathon & Isabella) deny their love for each other while all the time proving and showing it to everyone else. Their attempts at one-upping the other kept this story hopping. I won't delve into what happens during the adventure, but there are a lot of twists and turns that form a lovely backdrop to the love story that unfolds.

I especially enjoyed Isabella's independence and resourcefulness. It is refreshing to have a protagonist that isn't all simpering and wimpy, but instead can truly fend for herself using her wits and skills. Isabella's cardshark tendencies come in very handy here.

From what I understand this is the first in the author's series: Scandalous Encounters. I think it is a very good introduction and a sign that this will be a fun series to follow.

Out of 5 JEWELS, I give it:

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Kristabel Reed lives on the East Coast and loves to explore the steamier side of historical romance. "There are so many sexy situations that didn't just pop up in the 21st century and my goal is to burst the myth of the prim and proper debutante." She loves romances of all sorts but currently writes Regency and Contemporary romances with curvy women. She also loves old movies, taking the dog for walks, and anything Cary Grant. And is always interested in talking about erotic romance, so drop her a line: kristabelreed@yahoo.com; or Tweet her @kristabelreed; find her blog: kristabelreed.blogspot.com

Buy links:

AMAZON / BARNES & NOBLE

Kristabel is awarding one lucky reader a $15 Amazon or Barnes & Noble giftcard. Enter below and be sure to stop in and visit with the other tour hosts to get more chances to win.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tour Stops

November 17: Unabridged Andra's
November 24: Buried Under Romance
November 24: The Reading Addict
December 1: One Book Shy of a Full Shelf
December 1: Two Ends of the Pen - promo
December 8: Harlie's Books
December 8: LibriAmoriMiei

Cover Reveal - Within a Captain's Treasure by Lisa A. Olech

Title: Within a Captain's Treasure
Author: Lisa A. Olech
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Genre: Romance
Format: Ebook

This pirate’s latest prize may be love…

With a single pistol shot and the swing of a cutlass, Alice Tupper saves her mistress’s life. But no lady’s maid in polite society has ever killed a duke—at least, not on purpose. So Alice sets sail for America and her new destiny—only to find herself battling pirates on the high seas. Aboard her rescue ship, The Scarlet Night, she is hailed a hero and earns her place among the crew…
as well as the ire of Captain Gavin Quinn.

Gavin chose this pirate’s life, but he knows it’s no place for a woman, especially one as exasperating—and beautiful—as Alice. Despite his desire for her, Gavin is determined to do the right thing and deliver her to the new world. But Alice’s deepest wish is a life by Gavin’s side. Will his heart overrule his sense, and will he risk everything to pursue his greatest treasure of all?

ORDER INFORMATION

Within A Captain's Treasure is available for order at

Surrounded by men, Lisa considers herself an estrogen island in a sea of testosterone! This makes her queen!! Living in the beauty of New England she spends her free time tending the many gardens that surround her home and breathing fresh lake air.

She loves getting lost in a steamy book, finding the perfect pair of fabulous, sexy shoes and dreaming of her handsome heroes.

Her creativity and deep sense of spirituality has filled her life with new and wondrous adventures. She believes in ghosts, silver linings, and happily ever afters!

For More Information: Visit Lisa’s website. Connect with Lisa on Facebook and Twitter

Babs Book Bistro

Room With Books

Queen of All She Reads

Griperang's Bookmarks

Teatime and Books

Crystal's Chaotic Confessions

Write and Take Flight

Harmonious Publicity

A Taste of My Mind

All Inclusive Retort

The Fiscal Facts

Disclosure

In keeping with the new FTC rules regarding bloggers' endorsements and testimonials, I would like to share the following with my readers and followers:

At times I do receive free books from publishers, authors, and/or PR firms in exchange for doing honest reviews. I do not seek nor receive any monetary compensation for these reviews. I do note in each review how I obtained that book.

However, I do belong to affiliate programs. If you make a purchase using my link, I may receive a small fee from that sale. (To buy more books and giveaways for this blog!)

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