REVIEW: Rock My World by Sharisse Coulter

Title: Rock My World
Author: Sharisse Coulter
Publisher: Sharisse Coulter
Publication Date: January, 2013
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: Jenna Jax-Anders hit rock bottom in high school. Or so she thought. From rock star heiress to knocked-up has been, she turned it all around, marrying the punk rock baby daddy love of her life. The perfect Hollywood fairytale. Until the day she walked in on him kissing her best friend.

As she struggles to find herself and redefine the world around her, she faces the challenges of raising her over-achieving teenage daughter, the heartbreak of losing her best friend (backstabbing aside), and emerging from the shadows of two famous last names to find her own identity. Oh, there’s also the tiny issue of her husband’s record label, backed by an anonymous mogul whose morally ambiguous creative direction may ruin them all.

But she doesn’t know about that yet.

My Thoughts: With Rock My World, new to me author, Sharisse Coulter introduces the reader to the inner circle of the movers and shakers of the rock-n-roll industry. Jenna grew up in this world, the daughter of a famous musician. An unplanned pregnancy derails her plans and instead she marries Alex, the love of her life and up and coming punk rocker. To the outside world, it appears she has made a success of her life, married to her high school sweetheart and raising a teenage daughter. Everything seems perfect until she comes home and finds her husband and her best friend, Airika kissing. As Jenna’s world crumbles down around her ears, she struggles to find herself and meaning in her life as more secrets come to light.

I liked Jenna and found her easy to connect with and relate to. She starts out as quite naïve in the beginning but by the end of the book, she has developed a spine and has discovered her authentic self. I liked Felicity, Jenna’s daughter. She is a bright young woman suffering the normal teenaged angst while trying to cope with the uncertainty of her parents’ marriage and her own new first love. I liked Alex but found myself getting frustrated with him at times for being a weak character and not doing enough to resolve the issues that I believe he is solely responsible for. I did not like Airika but I found myself feeling a little sorry for her at times, wondering how she can look at herself in the mirror at the end of the day, while knowing she doesn’t have true love and loyalty from those around her. She brings it on herself but I didn’t find any joy in seeing her suffer.

I struggled with a few of the plot twists that I felt had no relevance and was frustrated at these twists pulling me out of the story. I also was frustrated at how long it took Jenna and Alex to communicate. When your marriage is falling apart and you have a teenaged daughter to boot, you don’t run away or stay out on tour. You come home and deal with it. I had a hard time accepting how Alex’s manager and record label made unrealistic demands and used his contract as a threat and he allowed them to bully him. He should have stood up to them much sooner. Though I enjoyed seeing Jenna find her spirit, I feel like she could have done that while being with her daughter, especially when her daughter experiences her own life-changing events.

My Final Verdict: Though I struggled with several aspects of this story, I found it to be enjoyable for the most part. I recommend it for readers who enjoy stories with complex character relationships.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Rock My World from the author in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Girl He Knows by Kristi Rose

Title: The Girl He Knows
Author: Kristi Rose
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Publication Date: August, 2014
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: Waking up naked next to a good looking man is not a bad way to start the day. Especially since Paisley missed all those opportunities in college, when she was too busy supporting her no good, thankfully now, ex-husband. The problem? This hottie is Hank, her best friend’s older brother, a guy she’s known her entire life.

Stopping after one night is the right thing to do. Being with him clearly breaks the best friend code, and from his career as a Naval officer to his Boy Scout reputation, everything about him screams monogamy and commitment. Two things Paisley has had enough of.

When Hank presents a “no strings attached” offer, it’s too good to be true. She can enjoy him while still embracing being single. But, poor choices force her to confront old fears of love and loss, and Paisley has to decide if Hank is worth the risk. The alternative is never experiencing the real deal. Or far worse, settling for less.

My Thoughts: New to me author Kristi Rose offers a laugh out loud funny story about friends who become lovers. On the heels of her recent divorce, Paisley wakes up in her best friend, Gigi’s childhood home, naked, lying next to Gigi’s brother, Hank. After some serious freaking out, she manages to get dressed and makes her escape. When Hank proposes a no-strings attached relationship, Paisley agrees to it, thinking it will help her transition back into the dating life of a singleton. Neither one of them is prepared for how they feel for each other and what role their past plays on their present and future.

I really liked Paisley. She’s flawed and damaged. She doesn’t trust herself and is a bit of a doormat. I found it easy to relate to her, her disappointments, frustrations and fears. She makes mistakes, has been hurt in love and still mourns the death of her father. In her shoes, I would probably make the same decisions and choices. Hank was a fantastic character. He really is a knight in shining armor but I loved that he is able to convey his feelings so eloquently. There’s a scene between him and Paisley that was hard to read, but it was so refreshing to see a male to be able to share his feelings without hidden agenda or manipulation. With Hank, Paisley gets the hard truth, pure and simple. I would have liked to see more closure with Jake, the bartender Paisley briefly dates. I did not like this character and it seemed like the author was heading into a very sinister and dark place, which was okay, but I would have liked to see that loose thread tied up.

With the exception of the bartender, I liked the characters and felt a connection to them, which is important to me as a reader. The author has an amazing flair with vocabulary and I got such a kick from listening to Paisley’s inner monologue. This book moves at a great pace and kept me interested and entertained from start to finish.

My Final Verdict: I recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast read that will tickle your funny bone and tug on your heartstrings. I am hooked and will be looking for more of this author’s work.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Girl He Knows from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Harry Potter And The Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

Title: Harry Potter And The Sorcerer’s Stone (Harry Potter #1)
Author: J.K. Rowling
Publisher: Scholastic
Publication Date: June, 1997
Genre: Young Adult
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Audible

Description: Harry Potter thinks he is an ordinary boy. He lives with his Uncle Vernon, Aunt Petunia and cousin Dudley, who are mean to him and make him sleep in a cupboard under the stairs. (Dudley, however, has two bedrooms, one to sleep in and one for all his toys and games.) Then Harry starts receiving mysterious letters and his life is changed forever. He is whisked away by a beetle-eyed giant of a man and enrolled at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The reason: Harry Potter is a wizard! The first book in the "Harry Potter" series makes the perfect introduction to the world of Hogwarts.

My Thoughts J.K. Rowling does a marvelous job of creating a world so unlike ours but so similar in many ways. The witches and wizards in Harry’s world are not that unlike us when you think about it. They have the same feelings, fears, hopes, dreams and disappointments. There’s a social hierarchy in their world, much like ours. There’s a political structure in their world too, complete with a governing agency, ruling officials and laws and regulations. They go to school, hold jobs, get married, raise families, get old and die. They love sports and entertainment as well. There’s good and evil in Harry’s world too.

Harry is your typical boy for the most part, but having never known his parents has left him missing out on that most important relationship. He’s being raised by his mother’s sister and her husband, living with them and their bully of a son, Dudley, but not really wanted. I got angry all over again at the way they treated him and at his living conditions. One thing that amazed me then and still does is why the Dursley’s put up such a fight to keep Harry from going to Hogwarts. They made it abundantly clear every day that they didn’t want Harry, barely tolerating his presence in their home. Going to Hogwarts would get him out of their home and ultimately their lives. They should have been kicking up their heels in joy when the first letter arrived. Perhaps, I will never understand why. Fortunately, the lack of bonding and family love does not turn Harry into a sociopath, bent on destroying lives.

Harry adjusts remarkably well to his new life and the excitement of it all. Once again, I found myself wishing I could go to Hogwarts. Going away to school in a castle with moving staircases, ghosts, magical creatures, and interesting characters may seem like a lot for an eleven year old boy to deal with, but Harry does. Finding out his parents were actually murdered by a very evil wizard who also tried to kill him is a lot to take in, as well, but Harry soon learns that those events are a part of who he is and the world he is now a part of.

I wanted to savor each page of the book, but I couldn’t put it down. Even knowing what was coming next, I discovered things I had missed before or perhaps forgot. I had forgotten what a strange and unusual girl Hermione was in the beginning. I had forgotten that Ron is very brave. I had forgotten how troublesome Peeves was and how stern Professor McGonagall could be.

So whether you are a fan who loves to re-read this series or someone who is reading it for the first time, embrace the story fully and enjoy the ride. It is an adventure not to be missed.

REVIEW: Four Of A Kind by Shannon Clayton

Title: Four Of A Kind (Divination Deborah #1)
Author: Shannon Clayton
Publisher: Black Rose Publications
Publication Date: March, 2014
Genre: Chick-Lit
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: Have you ever had one of those days where everything that could go wrong does?

Deborah Hayes is dealt that exact hand when disaster strikes at an event she’s managing, giving her publicity for all the wrong reasons, not to mention breaking up with her English boyfriend. And the trouble doesn’t just end there, but when Deborah starts to investigate she can’t help but feel like the universe was trying to warn her.

Determined not to miss any future ‘signs’ and desperate to attract some good luck, she embarks on a journey of divination, dipping her toes into all sorts of spiritual disciplines, Feng Shui, Palm Reading, Tarot Cards...

After scoring an amazing account at work, things look to be on the up, particularly after meeting her gorgeous Irish neighbor. But sometimes the signs are harder to read than we think, and when the latest up and coming sexy Scottish movie star, and a cute Kiwi guy, both take a shine to her, she’s even more desperate for guidance to help her choose.

Bordering on obsession, Deborah gets caught up in asking questions, looking for signs, and searching for hidden meanings and clues.

Can she make the right choice or is she looking for something that has been right in front of her all along?

My Thoughts: New to me author Shannon Clayton offers up a cute and entertaining story about a woman who is so focused on recognizing the signs of good luck in her life, she nearly misses out on capturing it when it’s right in front of her. After a publicity event she is managing goes horribly wrong, her boyfriend breaks up with her and her apartment is damaged in a fire all in the same night, Deborah Hayes decides she needs to focus her energies on ensuring she doesn’t miss any more signs of trouble on the horizon. She goes over the top in her obsession to attract good luck from decorating her apartment with Feng Shui principles, getting her palm read, having her chakras balanced and going for a tarot reading. What makes this story so entertaining is that despite all of the signs that may be obvious to most everyone around her, Deborah has a hard time seeing what’s in front of her and is just one false step from complete disaster through most of this book.

In addition to trying to decide which of the four men currently in her life is “the one,” Deborah also has to figure out who is sabotaging her at work. With the help of her best friend, Val, Deborah embarks on a journey of self-awareness to help her find the happiness she seeks.

Though I found myself getting a little annoyed at Deborah’s inability to make a decision or choose a path, I liked the character and was able to relate to her very easily and enjoyed this book. The story moves at a good pace and I liked most of the characters. The author does a great job of throwing in some surprises that I didn’t see coming but was pleased with the result. I recommend this book for the interesting and different plot line and think it would make a great addition to your list to read this summer.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Four Of A Kind from the author in exchange for an honest review.

New Additions To The TBR Pile In May

Did your TBR pile see new additions arriving in May? Anything you are really excited to dive into and start reading right away? Three new arrivals made their way onto my TBR pile in May and I read a total of four so I figure I broke even, yes? (smile).

Title: A Field Guide To Awkward Silences by Alexandra Petri
Description: Washington Post columnist Alexandra Petri turns her satirical eye on her own life in this hilarious new memoir...

Most twentysomethings spend a lot of time avoiding awkwardness.

Not Alexandra Petri.

Afraid of rejection? Alexandra Petri has auditioned for America’s Next Top Model. Afraid of looking like an idiot? Alexandra Petri lost Jeopardy! by answering “Who is that dude?” on national TV. Afraid of bad jokes? Alexandra Petri won an international pun championship.

Petri has been a debutante, reenacted the Civil War, and fended off suitors at a Star Wars convention while wearing a Jabba the Hutt suit. One time, she let some cult members she met on the street baptize her, just to be polite. She’s a connoisseur of the kind of awkwardness that most people spend whole lifetimes trying to avoid. If John Hodgman and Amy Sedaris had a baby…they would never let Petri babysit it.

But Petri is here to tell you: Everything you fear is not so bad. Trust her. She’s tried it. And in the course of her misadventures, she’s learned that there are worse things out there than awkwardness—and that interesting things start to happen when you stop caring what people think.

Title: Losing The Plot In LA by Sonia Farnsworth
Description: Sylvie is a trendy, LA party girl with more going on than she knows what to do with. Between apartment hunting, insane friends, a rapidly growing puppy, and one too many boys to juggle, she's just trying to catch her breath. Will the craziness overwhelm her, or will she find a better path to move forward? Draw a bath, pour some bubbly, and join her as she tries not to Lose the Plot.

Title: The Vintage Cinema Club by Jane Linfoot
Description: Meet The Vintage Cinema Club….

Izzy is a wow at making unwanted things pretty, but with three brothers and her shabby chic furniture business to run she doesn’t have time to date. Could a fabulous French proposal change her mind?

Single mum Luce’s vintage bridal dresses are exquisite, but there’s no way she’s ever going to wear one or walk down the aisle for that matter. She’s a strictly no romance, one night kind of woman – or so she thinks…
Dida seems to have it all – a chocolate and banana cake recipe to die for, lovely kids (most of the time!) and a great lifestyle. But what good is a fabulous home, when your marriage has more cracks than a pavlova and your husband is having it off with half of Lithuania?

Three retro fabulous friends, in love with all things vintage, run their dream business from the faded grandeur of a rescued cinema. When that dream comes under threat, they’ll do whatever it takes to save it.

Fans of Lucy Diamond, Michele Gorman and Milly Johnson are going to love this heartfelt, funny story.

REVIEW: Promised To The Highlander by Kate Robbins

Title: Promised To The Highlander (The Highland Chiefs #2)
Author: Kate Robbins
Publisher: Tirgearr Publishing
Publication Date: May, 2014
Genre: Historical Romance
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: Nessia Stephenson's world was safe until a threat from a neighboring clan forces her to accept a betrothal to a man whose family can offer her the protection she needs. The real threat lies in her intense attraction to the man who arranged the match—the clan's chief and her intended’s brother, Fergus MacKay.

When powerful warlord Fergus MacKay arranges a marriage for his younger brother, William, he has no idea the price will be his own heart. Fergus is captivated by the wildly beautiful Nessia, a woman he can never have.

When the feud between the MacKay and Sutherland clans escalates, Nessia, William, and Fergus all must make sacrifices for their future. Longing and loss, honor and duty. How can love triumph under such desperate circumstances?

My Thoughts: What a wonderful book! I actually liked this one more than the first book, Bound To The Highlander. Though we are introduced to Fergus in the first book, I must admit I was not too interested in him, but Promised To The Highlander brings Fergus into the light and, oh my goodness, what an amazing character! There are so many layers to this intriguing man who only wants to do what’s best for his family and protect his clan. He is a man who has suffered emotional pain and loss, who has faults, makes mistakes and who loses his heart in a most sudden and unexpected moment.

As Laird, he arranges a match for his brother, William to ensure the continuation of his clan. When he meets his brother’s intended, Nessia, he is not prepared for the intense feelings being near her bring out and to further complicate the situation, Nessia feels the same way about Fergus. Normally a love triangle featuring brothers in love with the same woman can only end badly for all concerned, but I really liked how this story plays out. Fergus, William and Nessia are all extremely likable characters that I didn’t want to see anything bad happen to.

The first book of this series gives the reader a small glimpse into the feud between the MacKay and Sutherland clans but this book rips it wide open. The author does a fantastic job of writing truly vile and despicable characters as well as characters the reader can really relate to. The villain of this story, Artair Sutherland is truly evil with no redeeming qualities. As much as I hated him and wanted to stab him in the throat myself, I couldn’t put this book down, I had to know what would happen next. The story moves at an excellent pace and was, for me, a very fast read.

My Final Verdict: There is so much to like about this story. The Scottish Highlands, compelling characters, passionate romance, epic and intense battle scenes and touching scenes of love and loss are just a small sampling of what this story has to offer. All of this and beautifully designed covers, you can’t go wrong. In order to truly enjoy the magic of the beautiful Scottish Highlands and all of the wonderful characters in this series, I highly recommend you start with the first book. I am looking forward to the third book in this story which is about Freya MacKay and Ronan Sutherland.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Promised To The Highlander from the author in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: The Night Visitor by Dianne Emley

Title: The Night Visitor
Author: Dianne Emley
Publisher: Alibi
Publication Date: September, 2014
Genre: Mystery / Thriller
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: In bestselling author Dianne Emley’s chilling new paranormal thriller, a beautiful woman’s romantic past comes back to haunt her in the form of an otherworldly visitor seeking justice.

Gorgeous and successful, Rory Langtry seemed to have it all. Daughter of a movie star and sister of a supermodel, Rory was engaged to sexy artist, Junior Lara. But her bright future went dark one terrible, bloody night that left her sister dead and the accused murderer—Junior—in an extended coma.

Now, five years later, Rory appears to have put the past behind her. She has a wonderful new fiancé and heads a successful cosmetics company. Yet dark secrets threaten. Across town, Junior lies close to death but before he departs he seeks to clear his name.

It starts with a feeling. It turns into a vision. Soon Rory is having sensations that only Junior could experience—from the horrifying to the erotic. Then she learns details about the awful night that only Junior could know, newfound knowledge with potentially fatal consequences. When another act of violence rocks her family, Rory plunges deeper into the unsolved mystery, led by an inexplicable visitor to a dangerous time and place where all will be revealed at last. But until then, Junior will not let her go.

My Thoughts: New to me author Dianne Emley offers up a very good, intense and suspenseful story with The Night Visitor, a story about a woman coming to terms with the tragedy that took the life of her twin sister, Anya and put her fiancé in a coma five years before. All evidence points to Junior as Anya’s murderer but Junior’s family believe Rory is the culprit. After a tragic act of violence puts Rory in harm’s way, we begin to learn about the events from five years ago through Junior’s eyes in flashbacks. Though Junior is in a coma and lingering on death’s door in this book, we get to know him through the flashbacks and I felt a strong empathy for him. I knew in my gut from the beginning he wasn’t the murderer, but I was fascinated at how he was psychically connected to his brother and then to Rory. I really liked Rory and her new fiancé, Tom. I admired how he handled the changes in Rory and his willingness to stand by her, showing his love and support though, at times, it appeared she was going to leave him and join Junior when he crossed over. A couple of scenes with Rory and Junior interacting had me in tears. They were beautifully written and so gut-wrenching emotional.

In addition to the paranormal mystery angle, I also enjoyed that this story explores the relationships between Rory and her mother and her sister. There are a lot of unresolved issues and hurt feelings that come out. The author writes these tense and very emotional scenes with a lot of grace without glossing over the incidents or sugar coating the pain Rory still feels. I struggled with feeling any empathy for Anya but we get to know her through flashbacks and I began to feel pity for her, though I did not agree with her choices or the way she treated people. I never warmed up to Rory’s mother. I thought she was vain and selfish. I thought Rory’s stepfather and stepbrother were arrogant.

This story moves at a fast pace and the author does a very good job of giving enough detail to keep the reader interested without overwhelming them. The dialogue was appropriate for the subject matter and flowed smoothly. I wish I had discovered this author’s work before.

My Final Verdict: Overall, The Night Visitor is a very good story that will appeal to fans of mysteries, thrillers and suspense novels. The paranormal element is an additional bonus that heightens the intensity of the story. I recommend this book if you enjoy stories that draw on all of your emotions.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of The Night Visitor from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Murder At Rudhall Manor by Anya Wylde

Title: Murder At Rudhall Manor
Author: Anya Wylde
Publisher: Anya Wylde
Publication Date: June, 2014
Genre: Mystery
Buy The Book: Amazon

Description: A murder and a theft have been committed at Rudhall Manor. A box of jewels has vanished and Lord Sedley, a lusty old aristocrat, has been stabbed six times in the chest.

It is all very mysterious, and the Sedley family and the servants have decided that Miss Lucy Anne Trotter, a recently employed governess, is to blame for the unfortunate events. The legendary and wickedly handsome Marquis, Lord William Adair, learns of the matter and decides to uncover the truth.

Lucy, however, has little faith in blue blooded creatures—even if they possess dashing good looks— and, accompanied by two naughty pugs and a moody raven, decides to investigate and unmask the killer herself.

But the hunt for the killer turns out to be far more complicated than she anticipates—what with snooty servants, warts in odd places, mixed up love affairs, agitated chickens and dreadful disguises ruining her plans.

Soon she begins to wonder if, for once, she is in over her head….

My Thoughts: Though quite silly, I found Murder At Rudhall Manor to be a good and entertaining story. There’s a murderer on the loose at Rudhall Manor but it’s nearly impossible to take any of it seriously with the over the top goings on. Naturally, the dysfunctional Sedley family is quick to blame our charming governess, Miss Lucy Trotter, though they have not one shred of proof, other than their obvious dislike and prejudice against the hired help, though she has yet to be paid for her work. Unfortunately for Miss Trotter, the rest of the household staff soon begins to believe she is the culprit and go out of their way to make her feel alone and without any allies. The arrival of Lord Adair does not seem to be of any help either as his investigation does not expose the killer either. Lucy starts to seriously fear that her neck will soon be in a noose. The arrival of Aunt Sedley provides a welcome distraction and Lucy agrees to look into the murder to find the real killer, but Aunt Sedley is not much help, being dead herself and a ghost. Lucy embarks on a madcap chase through the house and grounds looking for clues that will reveal the true identity of the killer before she runs out of time.

I enjoyed meeting Lucy and found her to be very brave and full of spunk, which is a rarity for women in this time period. Growing up in an orphanage has taught Lucy to rely on her own wits and intelligence to get through life. When she takes up the post of governess at Rudhall Manor, she has no idea that her wits and intelligence is what she has most going for her to keep her out of the hangman’s noose. I admired her tenacity to investigate the murder while facing animosity and opposition from everyone else around her. I found Lord Adair to be a very strange character, starting with his bizarre entrance by hot air balloon into the story. He’s quite eccentric and I suspect a little bit insane, but he and Lucy make a great, though odd, couple. What I found interesting was though Lucy found him to be very attractive, there was absolutely no hint of romance between them. This will make sense if you have read Penelope, though I am curious to see what they get up to next. I did not care for the living members of the Sedley family. Though she wasn’t much help to Lucy in her investigations, I thought Aunt Sedley was very entertaining. It’s too bad the rest of the family wasn’t as likable.

The story moves at a very good pace, keeping me engaged and interested in the story enough to want to know what happens next. A major twist at the end of the book with the reveal of the villain, which took me completely by surprise, which shouldn’t have come as a surprise since this story doesn’t follow the expected direction at any time.

My Final Verdict: Murder At Rudhall Manor will appeal to fans of light mysteries or quirky storylines and characters. Overall, this is an enjoyable story that will keep the reader entertained for several hours.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Murder At Rudhall Manor from the author in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Bound To The Highlander by Kate Robbins

Title: Bound To The Highlander (The Highland Chiefs #1)
Author: Kate Robbins
Publisher: Tirgearr Publishing
Publication Date: October, 2013
Genre: Historical Romance
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: Aileana Chattan suffers a devastating loss, then discovers she is to wed neighboring chief and baron, James MacIntosh -- a man she despises and whose loyalty deprived her of the father she loved. Despite him and his traitorous clan, Aileana will do her duty, but she doesn't have to like it or him. But when the MacIntosh awakens something inside her so absolute and consuming, she is forced to question everything.

James MacIntosh is a nobleman torn between tradition and progress. He must make a sacrifice if he is to help Scotland move forward as a unified country. Forced to sign a marriage contract years earlier binding Lady Aileana to him, James must find a way to break it, or risk losing all -- including his heart.

From the wild and rugged Highlands near Inverness to the dungeons of Edinburgh Castle, James and Aileana’s preconceptions of honor, duty and love are challenged at every adventurous turn.

My Thoughts: My favorite theme in historical romance has been kilts, Highlanders and all things Scottish for a very long time. Bound To The Highlander is the debut novel of new to me author Kate Robbins who does a brilliant job of bringing to life a wonderfully romantic story set in a vibrant and beautiful country during the early fifteenth century. I got a very good sense of what it is like living there, the hardships people faced and the lack of modern comforts we take for granted in the 21st century, like electricity and plumbing. As much as I love kilt-wearing Highlanders with accents that make my toes curl, I don’t think I would actually want to live back then.

I really enjoyed meeting Aileana and James. Seeing their mutual distrust and apprehension of each other in the beginning bloom into love and passion was a delight. I also loved the side story of Gwen and Calum. It was too bad that Aileana’s Uncle dies at the very beginning of the book as I think I would have enjoyed meeting him too. In addition to the good characters, Ms. Robbins writes her villains very well too. There’s a very intense and violent scene between Aileana and Gawain that was hard to read but written so well that I was glued to my seat waiting to find out what happens next.

My Final Verdict: Overall, this was a good start to a series that I am looking forward to reading more of. I recommend Bound To The Highlander to fans of historical romances and to anyone who enjoys good stories with strong characters and beautiful settings.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Bound To The Highlander from the author in exchange for an honest review.

New Additions To The TBR Pile In April

April saw the arrival of ALOT of new arrivals that I am eagerly looking forward to reading. Here's what joined my teetering to be read pile:

Among A Thousand Stars by Jo Bartlett
Description: They say you'd do anything for love, but what happens when you don't believe it exists?

When her mother turns up naked and proud during her first term at college, Ashleigh Hayes assumes that life can’t get any more embarrassing. Ten years later, with best friend Stevie at her side, and a successful career as a freelance photographer for monthly magazine Glitz, it looks like she might have finally got the hang of things. Only she seems to have inherited the embarrassment gene from her mother and her every encounter with new boss, Tom Rushworth, looks set to send her career spiralling backwards. Getting past their shaky start, Ashleigh and Tom embark on a relationship that was only ever meant to be a bit of fun. But when life, paparazzi and love-sick Labradors get in the way, they suddenly find themselves caught in a roller coaster ride of emotions.

Behind The Scenes by Sophie Childs
Description: Never wear a pair of high heels on a film set no matter how good they may look!

Bethan Brooks works in London for the ultimate boss from Hell, trying to support her wannabe rockstar boyfriend. But are The Vampire Squirrels really ever going to make it big or is she doomed to be a secretary forever? Luckily, Bethan finds the perfect escape when going to the cinema. There she loses herself in another world and forgets all about the dreaded filing and monotonous office work. Imagine her surprise when one day she encounters her favourite actor on the Tube. Suddenly, she finds herself part of the glamorous movie world she only ever dreamed about. With more at stake than she could ever realise, does she really want to know what goes on behind the scenes?

Concealed In Death by J.D. Robb
Description: The incomparable J. D. Robb presents the latest moving and suspenseful novel in the #1 New York Times–bestselling Eve Dallas series.

In a decrepit and long-empty New York building, a man begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, he finds two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it.

The man is Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s billionaire husband, Roarke, and he summons her immediately. His latest real estate project is going to be on hold for a while, because by the time Eve and her crew are finished searching the premises, there are twelve murders to be solved….

After a little digging reveals that the place housed a makeshift shelter for troubled and homeless teenagers back in the mid-2040s, Eve tracks down the people who worked there. Between their recollections and the brilliant work of the force’s new forensic anthropologist, Eve begins to put names and faces to the skeletal remains. They are all girls. A tattooed tough teenager who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.

Everyone has something to hide. And when Eve discovers a stunning connection between the victims and someone she knows, she is even more driven to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary—and to find the evil concealed in one human heart.

Game Of Scones by Samantha Tonge
Description: A story of icing and flour…and how love doesn’t always go to plan!

Growing up, Pippa Pattinson’s summers were spent in the idyllic Greek island fishing village of Taxos. There she spent many long hazy days determinedly ignoring thoughts of the life her parents had mapped out for her (a dreary-but-secure banking job and obligatory sensible husband!) Instead she daydreamed of running her own tea shop – serving the perfect scones –with mocha-eyed childhood friend Niko by her side…

Arriving back in Taxos for the first time in years, with suave boyfriend Henrik, Pippa barely recognises the tired little town – but is relieved to catch glimpses of the quaint, charming village she’s always loved. Together Niko and Pippa put together a proposal to save Taxos from tourist-tastic ruin, and at the heart of their plan is Pippa’s dream project - The Tastiest Little Tea Shop in Taxos. It’s time for Pippa to leave her London life behind and dust off her scone recipe that’s guaranteed to win over both locals and visitors. And amidst the rolling pins and raisins, it seems romance is blossoming where she’s least expecting it…

If you’re a fan of Lindsey Kelk or Lucy Diamond then don’t hesitate to step into Samantha Tonge’s truly delightful tea shop.

Hello, Hollywood by Suzanne Corso
Description: From the critically acclaimed author of Brooklyn Story—praised by The New York Times for its “true female voice”—comes the conclusion to a whirlwind Cinderella story traveling from the gritty streets of Brooklyn to the glitzy scenes of Hollywood.

Samantha Bonti came from a humble background in Brooklyn and listened to her beloved grandmother’s advice: she wrote herself out of her story as a poor girl and into an affluent one as the wife of a Wall Street banker. Her glitzy life took a turn, though, when her husband spent the money faster than it came in and grew abusive and angry. After his sudden and unexpected heart attack, it turns out fate has dealt Sam another hand in her husband’s $15 million life insurance policy.

Now independent, Sam moves to Hollywood with her daughter to oversee the film production of her bestselling novel, based on her childhood. She thinks she has it all, but life has a lot more in store for her. The producer of her film (and her now-boyfriend) reveals a dark underside to all this Hollywood glamour—and soon, people from her past in Brooklyn that she thought long gone start showing up where they are very unwelcome. Amidst it all, a mysterious man named John has designs on Sam—and she’s not sure if this could be a new romance or another romantic misstep. Now she must ask herself: Is her turn in the spotlight worth all the real-life drama?

Jillian Spectre And The Dream Weaver by Nic Tatano
Description: There’s a new villian in town…

One who can manipulate dreams and reality to the point that people can’t tell the difference.

This is a job for Jillian Spectre.

The snarky eighteen year old redhead with paranormal powers has already saved the world once but now she’s under attack by a force that might be above her pay grade.

The Dream Weaver.

When Jillian’s own dreams are invaded she finds herself desperately trying to separate reality from fantasy – and struggle with a totally inappropriate crush on someone who isn’t her mind reading boyfriend, Ryan.

When her own soul is on the line as the Dream Weaver manipulates her, Jillian has one shot to save herself and the rest of the world… or she and the rest of the world could be trapped in their dreams forever.

Just The Way You Are by Lynsey James
Description: Dear Ava,

How do you start writing a letter to someone, six years after breaking their heart?

Ava is unlucky in love as well as in life. The new office bitch has landed the dating column Ava wanted, and she can't remember the last time she had a second date. It's a good thing she has best friends Max and Gwen to pick up the pieces.

Deep down, Ava knows the reason why one date never turns into two - she's in love with someone else. Someone she's never even met.

It all started six years ago, with a letter from a secret admirer, Mr Writer…but then they suddenly stopped and Ava was heartbroken.

Now the letters have started again and Ava knows it could mean winning back the dating column at work. This time she's determined to unmask Mr Writer...and find out once and for all if he's Mr Right or Mr Very Definitely Wrong!

Making Your Mind Up by Jill Mansell
Description: Lottie Carlyle isn't looking for love when she meets her new boss, Tyler Klein. Living in a beautiful cottage with her two adorable - sometimes - kids in an idyllic village in the Cotswolds, on good terms with her ex-husband and with friends all around, she's happy enough with her lot. But Tyler's perfect for Lottie and quickly she falls for him - and he for her. Unfortunately, there's a problem. For reasons that are totally unfair, Lottie's children HATE Tyler. When a rival for Lottie's affections comes on the scene in the shape of charmer Seb, the children adore him, and he's certainly a distraction. But he's not Tyler - and he's not even at all what he seems. Lottie's got a problem - but thanks, in classic Jill Mansell style, to a tobogganing accident and a delicious series of mix-ups, all will be revealed and true love will find a way.

Ms. Conception by Jen Cumming
Description: Abigail Nichols has tried everything from rash-inducing herbal creams to acupuncture in a desperate, last-ditch effort to get pregnant. Wedged into her iPhone schedule among new business pitches and rebranding design meetings is Abby’s ovulation cycle, along with potential opportunities for illicit afternoon quickies. With all of their hopes and savings on the table, Abby and her husband Jack enter the whispered world of fertility clinics. Along with a meddling mother-in-law, competitive pregnancies, and constant obligatory sex, Abby’s baby-track mind conspires to ravage her career, her marriage, and her sanity. One thing she knows for sure: a healthy sense of humor (and the occasional glass of red wine) is the best coping strategy. One thing she wishes she knew: whether it will be enough. Ms. Conception is an honest but light-hearted novel inspired by the ups and downs of fertility treatments and the emotional burden that rests on those trying to conceive.

Post-Traumatic Brazilian Wax Syndrome by Tamara Lyon
Description: Bristow Sparks, an interior designer in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, has just landed the contract of a lifetime, working for the Cherry Wyeland, volatile reality star and CEO of Wine-A-Lot. Designing for a crazy person is an around-the-clock commitment. It frays Bristow’s nerves and forces her to compromise in unimaginable ways, but, given that the finished product will be featured on The Decorating Network, she must succeed.

While her professional life is hot, her personal life is barely room temperature. After surviving the relentless media spotlight because of a personal tragedy and a traitorous ex-boyfriend, Bristow flies so far under the radar she can’t even be detected. A homebody to the core, she binges on episodes of the Showtime series, Dexter, lives in sweatpants, and is addicted to exercise and Oreos.

As for relationships? She has fallen hard and fast for witty and adventurous Jack Hoffmann. However, after their disastrous first date where Bristow collides with a park bench among other mortifying mishaps, they are unfortunately just friends. At least there’s one male sharing her bed, even if it’s only Vegas, her theatrical golden retriever.

For her twenty-ninth birthday, Bristow goes out of her comfort zone and gets a makeover at an elite spa. Post-Brazilian wax and in excruciating pain, Bristow realizes that she’s been in a post-traumatic state for years. She vows to start taking risks again. When she finally goes after what and whom she wants, no matter the cost, tragedy strikes again . . .

Searching For Steven by Jessica Redland
Description: When Sarah Peterson accepts her Auntie Kay’s unexpected offer to take over her florist’s shop, she’s prepared for a change of job, home and lifestyle. What she isn’t prepared for is the discovery of a scarily accurate clairvoyant reading that’s been missing for twelve years. All her predictions have come true, except one: she’s about to meet the man of her dreams. Oh, and his name is Steven.

Suddenly Stevens are everywhere. Could it be the window cleaner, the rep, the manager of the coffee shop, or any of the men she’s met online?

On top of that, she finds herself quite attracted to a handsome web designer, but his name isn't even Steven...

During this unusual search, will Sarah find her destiny?

Skinny Me by Charlene Carr
Description: Jennifer Carpenter dreams of being a different person – A person with confidence, a person with beauty, a person who weighs a heck of a lot less.

At twenty-seven, her world falls apart. She’s out of work, her mother has died, her estranged brother is in a coma and, despite good qualifications, each and every job interview ends in another rejection. Marked by the teasing, taunts, and fat jokes that defined her childhood, Jennifer blames her current lack of success on her ever-growing waist band.

In need of a change, Jennifer puts her dream of ‘skinny’ above all else. Obsessed with this mission, she devotes her life to becoming the ideal version of herself even if it means becoming alienated from the only people who love her. Determined to lose the weight she believes is ruining her life, Jennifer finds herself in danger of losing so much more.

The Breakup Mix by TK Carter
Description: A lot of wine, a little time, and the Breakup Mix CD on repeat cures a multitude of hurts, but I don't know if my broom and dustpan are big enough for the messes we've created. The five of us have been best friends since childhood, our lives have always intertwined, but this time we may have reached a point of no return. Leave it to Alissa to make a snap decision that drags Dani and me with her halfway across the country for the next six months. That girl may have a big heart and more money than God, but this time she's in over her head and sinkin' fast. Even though Dani's marriage is in the toilet, she's flying on Cloud 9 thanks to Alissa, but I'm done. My single toes are in the sand, and I'm trying to forget the existence of my ex -Tony. Marriage-pfft-does he know me at all? Back at home, Katie's lost in married-and-dutiful land proclaiming to be happy and rarely comes around anymore. But Michelle? She got the life she dreamed of when we were kids, but watching the rest of our success over the last twenty years has her wondering if she aimed too low and hit the bullseye. Her marriage to Brandon-the-douchebag inches closer to the breaking point every day and there's nothing any of us can do but wait for the snap.

The Breakup Mix is a story of five women and the decisions they make that tear them apart, but connect them forever.

The Traveling Tea Shop by Belinda Jones
Description: A delectable tale of friendship, love and cake for fans of Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella...

Laurie loves a challenge. Especially if it involves anything beautiful, baked and frosted. The brief is simple: With three other women, Laurie will board a London bus - kitted out as an English tea shop - on a deliciously different road trip of the USA.

Their mission: To bring home-grown classics like Battenberg, Victoria sponge and scones to the land of cupcakes, whoopie pies and gold-leafed chocolate sundaes.

And to show them how a real cup of tea is made. All of the women have their own secrets and heartaches to heal. As well as a grand appreciation of cupcakes, there's also the chance for romance...

But will making whoopee lead to love?

All aboard for: New York - Connecticut - Rhode Island - Massachusetts - Maine - New Hampshire - Vermont

Truly, Madly, Greekly by Mandy Baggot
Description: Sun, sea and a sexy stranger - a whole lot of fun just got a lot more complicated.

Capable, confident and career-driven, Ellen had her dream job and a marriage proposal from boyfriend Ross. Life was good, her future set. Until it wasn’t and everything fell apart…

Whisked off to the beautiful island of Corfu to plan her sister Lacey’s big, fat, Greek wedding, Ellen is hoping some time out will help clear her head and heal her heart. But letting go of her past is not going to be easy.

With Lacey in full on Bridezilla mode, Ellen is soon distracted from her own problems. And when the all-inclusive treats on offer at hotel Blue Vue include one gorgeous, brooding Adonis – Yan – Ellen finds him difficult to resist.

But Ellen isn’t looking for love or lust, or anything involving too much ouzo…or is she?

What Matters Most by Dianne Maguire
Description: Confronting, amusing and compelling, this is a story about choices and how they shape who we become.

Pediatrician Mia Sandhurst and teenager, Rachel Hooper come together as doctor and patient, both hostages to people they love.

Mia comes to terms with her husband's cheating, while Rachel is deliberately shielding someone who deserves to be named and shamed.

Tim Hooper has his suspicions about his sister's persistent silence and, together with Mia's clinical know-how, sets out to uncover the truth, but the truth is more complex than either of them might have imagined.

Set on the coast of the magical Fleurieu Peninsula, What Matters Most is a frank portrayal of self-discovery in middle age coupled with an unvarnished depiction of the mysteries of child abuse.

REVIEW: Cop Town by Karin Slaughter

Title: Cop Town
Author: Karin Slaughter
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication Date: June, 2014
Genre: Thriller
Buy The Book: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Audible

Description: Atlanta, 1974: As a brutal murder and a furious manhunt rock the city’s police department, Kate Murphy wonders if her first day on the job will also be her last. She’s determined to defy her privileged background by making her own way—wearing a badge and carrying a gun. But for a beautiful young woman, life will be anything but easy in the macho world of the Atlanta PD, where even the female cops have little mercy for rookies. It’s also the worst day possible to start given that a beloved cop has been gunned down, his brothers in blue are out for blood, and the city is on the edge of war.

Kate isn’t the only woman on the force who’s feeling the heat. Maggie Lawson followed her uncle and brother into the ranks to prove her worth in their cynical eyes. When she and Kate, her new partner, are pushed out of the citywide search for a cop killer, their fury, pain, and pride finally reach the boiling point. With a killer poised to strike again, they will pursue their own line of investigation, risking everything as they venture into the city’s darkest heart.

My Thoughts: I found Cop Town to be a major departure from what Karin Slaughter usually writes. She’s a very good suspense writer but this book is so much more than that. This book crosses so many sensitive barrier lines and is done so well, I didn’t have time to be shocked at the events transpiring in the book, though some of it was very difficult to read. This story brings issues of prejudice, bigotry, sexism, corruption and ethics to the forefront. This story centers on Maggie Lawson, an officer of the Atlanta Police Department and her new rookie partner, Kate Murphy. From the onset, the reader is given a very strong impression that women are not wanted or respected on the force. The level of hostility and harassment these women experience is very disturbing. Add in a serial killer who is targeting police officers and you have a very intense story that kept me anxious to find out what happens next and dreading it at the same time. The line separating the good from the evil is very blurry in this book.

I thought Maggie and Kate were interesting characters and though they are definitely a part of the ‘good ole boy’ network of Atlanta PD, they are definitely not part of the inner circle that Maggie’s uncle Terry and brother Jimmy are in. Maggie and Kate both feel like they have something to prove, not just to themselves but to the people around them. What I found interesting is the hostility that Kate receives from the female officers as well as the male officers. Instead of presenting a united front, the animosity between the women is a living, breathing entity. It takes all of Kate’s strength of mind and character to come back after her first day. I found myself wondering many times if either of them would make it to the end of this book in one piece.

Maggie’s uncle, Terry is a despicable character. He is a product of his time. Adjectives of sexist, male chauvinist pig, tyrant, bully, bastard all come to mind. He’s not above raising his hand against a woman and has no problem inflicting verbal and physical abuse on Maggie. Domestic violence was not viewed back then the way it is today and women had few rights outside the home. I would not have shed any tears if he had been one of the shooter’s targets.

Maggie’s brother, Jimmy was more likable but I struggled with his attitude initially. He is a redeemable character and by the end of the book most of his behavior made sense. I struggled with the ethics and moral compass of many of the characters but it was true to the time period this book is set in.

The story begins with Jimmy’s partner being gunned down and Jimmy barely escaping with his life. The entire department is out for blood and the “shoot first, ask questions later” mentally is in full swing. Maggie and Kate find themselves conducting a side investigation when they both individually realize that Jimmy’s account of what happened doesn’t make logical sense. This puts them in closer proximity to the killer and the stakes are raised when we discover that Kate is being stalked. The story continues to heighten the anticipation and intensity throughout the book. I thought the identity of the shooter was fitting and believable, though I was surprised that I didn’t see it or catch on earlier.

My Final Verdict: Overall, this is a very good story filled with heart racing intensity that will appeal to fans of the suspense and thriller genre, once the initial shock of the behavior and attitudes of the time period wears off.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Cop Town from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

REVIEW: Concealed In Death by J.D. Robb

Title: Concealed In Death (In Death #38)
Author: J.D. Robb
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons
Publication Date: February, 2014
Genre: Mystery / Thriller

Description: The incomparable J. D. Robb presents the latest moving and suspenseful novel in the #1 New York Times–bestselling Eve Dallas series.

In a decrepit and long-empty New York building, a man begins the demolition process by swinging a sledgehammer into a wall. When the dust clears, he finds two skeletons wrapped in plastic behind it.

The man is Lieutenant Eve Dallas’s billionaire husband, Roarke, and he summons her immediately. His latest real estate project is going to be on hold for a while, because by the time Eve and her crew are finished searching the premises, there are twelve murders to be solved….

After a little digging reveals that the place housed a makeshift shelter for troubled and homeless teenagers back in the mid-2040s, Eve tracks down the people who worked there. Between their recollections and the brilliant work of the force’s new forensic anthropologist, Eve begins to put names and faces to the skeletal remains. They are all girls. A tattooed tough teenager who dealt in illegal drugs. The runaway daughter of a pair of well-to-do doctors. They all had their stories. And they all lost their chance for a better life.

Everyone has something to hide. And when Eve discovers a stunning connection between the victims and someone she knows, she is even more driven to reveal the secrets of the place that was called The Sanctuary—and to find the evil concealed in one human heart.

My Thoughts: After 38 installments, I keep waiting for Eve to lose her edge; expecting it, somehow. I mean, seriously, how long can J.D. Robb continue to churn out story after story with Eve kicking ass and taking names and never missing a beat? I have never read a series that has continued as long as this one has and still manages to deliver a hard-hitting action packed story every single time. Not every story is perfect and not every story was keeper shelf material, but hands down, this series continues to deliver action and suspense in a rich character-driven setting. Throw in some romance and passion and humor and you have a series that brings the reader back book after book seeking the comfort of hanging out with Eve and her posse.

A very interesting aspect of Concealed In Death is the villain is not evil as I have come to expect from these stories. Eve expects it too and actually prefers it. She stands for the dead and what better way to bring them justice if she can deliver up some serious cage time off planet for the evil villain who destroys lives. She lives for it. I felt bad for Eve that she doesn’t get that. She catches the murderer, absolutely, but I found myself a little deflated, on Eve’s behalf, and feeling a lot of compassion for the murderer and empathy for the families, including the murderer’s. Sometimes justice isn’t black and white. Sometimes there are no winners, just survivors and the walking wounded from the fallout of the heinous crimes.

I especially enjoyed getting more of Mavis’s background story. I love the relationship she has with Eve and in this story, the reader can fully understand why they get along so well. They are truly kindred spirits. I also liked Quilla, one of the troubled teens at the group home who has a smart mouth and interesting outlook on what’s going on around her. She makes her presence known early on and often throughout the book and though Eve tries hard to keep her at arm’s length, I think Eve likes her. I hope we see more of her in future books. There is also a very heartwarming scene between Eve and Dennis Mira involving some fuzzy mittens and hat. I really enjoy it when Eve shows her softer, more sentimental side. It never lasts long, but it is always a treat to see. The jury is still out on Dr. Garnet DeWinter, the forensic anthropologist who is working with Eve to reconstruct the skeletal remains to identify the victims. My first impression of her reminds me of Nadine Furst. She’s very assertive and has a strong personality, but I don’t know if she will turn out to be a friend or foe to Eve at this point.

My Final Verdict: Concealed In Death is very mild on the intensity as compared to earlier books, but the story is solid and is a very good installment to the series. This book will appeal to fans of mysteries, thrillers and romance. The addition of the forensic anthropology angle to identify the victims is interesting. I highly recommend this book to the fans of this series and if you haven’t read any of the books in this series, you are in for a treat, but do not start with this book. Start at the beginning with Naked In Death.

Book Spotlight & Giveaway: Making Your Mind Up by Jill Mansell

Making Your Mind Up
By Jill Mansell
Sourcebooks Landmark
May 5, 2015
ISBN: 9781492604440
$14.00 Trade Paperback

Purchase Making Your Mind Up Here:
Amazon | B&N | BAM | IndieBound | Kobo

International bestseller Jill Mansell delivers a hilarious and heartwarming tale about falling in love when you have opinionated kids

Love is a complicated thing…
Lottie Carlyle is happy enough. Living in a beautiful cottage with her two adorable—sometimes—kids in an idyllic village, on good terms with her ex-husband, and with friends all around, everything is going just fine. But when she meets her new boss, her peaceful world is thrown into delightful, exciting, and frustrating chaos. Tyler is perfect for Lottie, but her kids do not agree. To make matters worse, the handsome and mysterious Seb appears on the scene, intriguing—and distracting—Lottie and charming her children, making it more and more difficult for her to make up her mind…

“Very nicely done… Jill Mansell’s chorus of sharp-witted youth, shaking sticks at the foibles of their elders, is delightful.” —Daily Express
“A smashing read that both delights and surprises the reader.” —The Sun

Praise for Thinking of You:
“Mansell is like a Michelin-rated chef: She may use common ingredients, but under her sure hand the results are deliciously superior.” —Kirkus
“Humorous, sometimes poignant... Her breezy style resembles that of Sophie Kinsella or Helen Fielding… readers will be delighted.” —Booklist
“Jill Mansell combines, humor, friendship, romance and betrayal... keeps you wanting more.” —Fresh Fiction
“Beyond the fun, faulted characters, Mansell has a gift for humorous and witty dialogue that will leave readers in stitches... Mansell excels at creating relationships that are dynamic and complicated.” —Savvy Verse and Wit
About Jill Mansell
With over 9 million copies sold, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jill Mansell writes irresistible and funny romantic tales for women in the tradition of Marian Keyes and Sophie Kinsella. She worked for many years at the Burden Neurological Hospital, Bristol, and now writes full time. She lives with her partner and their children in Bristol, England.

Connect With Jill:
Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

An Excerpt from MAKING YOUR MIND UP by Jill Mansell
The lane that ran alongside the garden of Hestacombe House was narrow and banked high on both sides with poppies, cow parsley, and blackberry bushes. Turning left, Tyler Klein worked out, would lead you back up to the village of Hestacombe. Turning right took you down to the lake. As he took the right turn, Tyler heard the sound of running feet and giggling.

Rounding the first bend in the lane, he saw two small children twenty or thirty yards away, clambering over a stile. Dressed in shorts, T--shirts, and baseball caps, the one in front was carrying a rolled--up yellow-and-white-striped striped towel, while his companion clutched a haphazard bundle of clothes. Glancing up the lane and spotting Tyler, they giggled again and leaped down from the stile into the cornfield beyond. By the time he reached the stile they’d scurried out of sight, no doubt having taken some shortcut back to the village following their dip in the lake.

The lane opened out into a sandy clearing that sloped down to meet a small artificial beach. Freddie Masterson had had this constructed several years ago, chiefly for the benefit of visitors to his lakeside vacation cottages, but also—-as Tyler had just witnessed—-to be enjoyed by the inhabitants of Hestacombe. Shielding his eyes from the glare of the afternoon sun as it bounced off the lake, Tyler saw a girl in a bright turquoise bikini floating lazily on her back in the water. There was a faint unearthly wailing sound coming from somewhere he couldn’t quite place. Then the noise—-was it singing?—-stopped. Moments later, as Tyler watched, the girl turned onto her front and began to swim slowly back to shore.

It could almost be that scene from Dr. No, where Sean Connery observes Ursula Andress emerging goddess--like from a tropical sea. Except he wasn’t hiding in the bushes and he had all his own hair. And this girl didn’t have a large knife strapped to her thigh.

She wasn’t blond either. Her long dark hair was a riot of snaky curls plastered to her shoulders, her body curvy and deeply tanned. Impressed—-because an encounter like this was the last thing he’d been expecting—-Tyler nodded in a friendly fashion as she paused to wring water from her dripping hair and said, “Good swim?”

The girl surveyed him steadily, then looked around the tiny beach. Finally she said, “Where’s my stuff?”

Stuff. Taken aback, Tyler gazed around too, even though he had no idea what he was meant to be looking for. For one bizarre moment he wondered if she had arranged to meet a drug dealer here. That was what people said, wasn’t it, when they met up with their dealer?

“What stuff?”

“The usual stuff you leave out of the water when you go for a swim. Clothes. Towel. Diamond earrings.”

Tyler said, “Where did you put them?”

“Right there where you’re standing. Right there,” the girl repeated, pointing at his polished black shoes. She narrowed her eyes at him.

“Is this a joke?”

“I guess it is. But I’m not the one playing it.” Half turning, Tyler indicated the narrow lane behind him. “I passed a couple kids back there, carrying off stuff.”

She had her hands on her hips now, and was surveying him with growing disbelief. “And it didn’t occur to you to stop them?”

“I thought it was their stuff.” This was ridiculous, he’d never said the word stuff so many times before in his life. “I guess I just thought they’d been swimming down here in this lake.”

“You thought the size ten pink halter--necked dress and size seven silver sandals belonged to them.” The sarcasm—-that particularly British form of sarcasm—-was evident in her voice.

“The sandals were wrapped up in something pink. I didn’t actually get a close look at the labels. I was thirty yards away.”

“But you thought they’d been swimming.” Gazing at him intently, the girl said, “Tell me something. Were they…wet?”

Shit. The kids hadn’t been wet. He’d make a lousy private eye. Unwilling to concede defeat, Tyler said, “They could have come down for a paddle. Look, did you really leave diamond earrings with your clothes?”

“Do I look completely stupid? No, of course I didn’t. Diamonds don’t dissolve in water.” Impatiently she shook back her hair to show him the studs glittering in her earlobes. “Right, what did these kids look like?”

“Like kids. I don’t know.” Tyler shrugged. “They were wearing T--shirts, I guess. And, um, shorts…”

The girl raised her eyebrows. “That’s incredible. Your powers of observation are dazzling. OK, was it a boy and a girl?”

“Maybe.” He’d assumed they were boys, but one had had longer hair than the other. “Like I said, I only saw them from a distance. They were climbing over a stile.”

“Dark hair? Thin and wiry?” the girl persisted. “Did they look like a couple of gypsies?”

“Yes.” Tyler was instantly on the alert; when Freddie Masterson had been singing the praises of Hestacombe he hadn’t mentioned any gypsies. “Are they a problem around here?”

“Damn right they’re a problem around here. They’re my children.” Intercepting the look of horror on his face, the girl broke into a mischievous smile. “Relax, they’re not really gypsies. You haven’t just mortally offended me.”

“Well,” said Tyler, “I’m glad about that.”

“I didn’t see a thing, little sods. They must have crawled through the bushes and sneaked off with my stuff when I wasn’t looking. That’s what happens when you have kids who are hell--bent on joining the SAS. But this isn’t funny.” No longer amused, the girl said impatiently, “I can’t believe they’d do something so stupid. They don’t think, do they? Because now I’m stuck here with no clothes—-”

“You’re welcome to borrow my jacket.”

“And no shoes.”

“I’m not lending you my shoes,” Tyler drawled. “You’d look ridiculous. Plus, that’d leave me with nothing to put on my feet.”

“Wuss.” Thinking hard, the girl said, “OK, look, can you do me a favor? Go back up to the village, past the pub, and my house is three doors down on the right. Piper’s Cottage. The doorbell’s broken so you’ll have to bang on the door. Tell Ruby and Nat to give you my clothes. Then you can bring them back down to me. How does that sound?”

Water from her hair was dripping into her clear hazel eyes, glistening on her tanned skin. She had excellent white teeth and a persuasive manner. Tyler frowned.

“What if the kids aren’t there?”

“Right, now I know this isn’t ideal, but you have an honest face so I’m going to have to trust you. If they aren’t there, you’ll just have to take the front door key out from under the tub of geraniums by the porch and let yourself into the house. My bedroom’s on the left at the top of the stairs. Just grab something from the wardrobe.” Her mouth twitching, the girl said, “And no snooping in my panty drawer while you’re there. Just pick out a dress and some shoes then let yourself out of the house. You can be back here in ten minutes.”

“I can’t do this.” Tyler shook his head. “You don’t even know me. I’m not going to let myself into a strange house. And if your kids are there…well, that’s even worse.”

“Hi.” Seizing his hand, she enthusiastically shook it. “I’m Lottie Carlyle. There, now I’ve introduced myself. And my house really isn’t that strange. A bit untidy perhaps, but that’s allowed. And you are?”

“Tyler. Tyler Klein. Still not doing it.”

“Well, you’re a big help. I’m going to look like an idiot walking through the village like this.”

“I told you, you can borrow my jacket.” Seeing as she was dripping wet and his suit jacket was silk--lined and seriously expensive, he felt this was a pretty generous offer. Lottie Carlyle, however, seemed unimpressed.

“I’d still look stupid. You could lend me your shirt,” she wheedled. “That’d be better.”

Tyler was here on business. He had no intention of removing his shirt. Firmly he said, “I don’t think so. It’s the jacket or nothing.”

Realizing when she was beaten, Lottie Carlyle took the jacket from him and put it on. “You drive a hard bargain. There, do I look completely ridiculous?”

“Yes.”

“You’re too kind.” She looked sadly down at her bare feet. “Any chance of a piggy back?”

Tyler looked amused. “Don’t push your luck.”

“Are you saying I’m fat?”

“I’m thinking of my street cred.”

Interested, Lottie said, “What are you doing here, anyway? In your smart city suit and shiny shoes?”

There clearly wasn’t much call for city suits here in Hestacombe. As they turned to leave, Tyler glanced back at the lake, where iridescent dragonflies were darting over the surface of the water and a family of ducks had just swum into view. Casually he said,

“Just visiting.”

Gingerly picking her way along the stony, uneven lane, Lottie winced and said meaningfully, “Ouch, my feet.”


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