“The Marquess Next Door” Review

Hello Friends!

Finally! The last review of the day and I’m back to one of my favorite subgenres in the Historical fiction genre: Regency romance. A book by one of my go-to authors.

“The Marquess Next Door“, written by Virginia Heath, is a Historical Romance, in the Regency romance subgenre, the second book in The Talk of the Beau Monde series, published on 1st July 2021, by Mills & Boon.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Virginia Heath for the eCopy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

Synopsis

Temptation on her doorstep!

To avoid an unwanted suitor at a ball, Hope Brookes asks another gentleman to rescue her. He obliges – with a surprisingly passionate kiss! Revealed as her sinfully handsome new neighbour, Lucius, Marquess of Thundersley, they forge a friendship over their balconies. It’s refreshing that Lucius is more interested in her writer dreams than her looks, so why can’t she stop thinking about that kiss?

Purchase Links: Amazon | Kobo

---

About the Author

When Virginia Heath was a little girl it took her ages to fall asleep, so she made up stories in her head to help pass the time while she was staring at the ceiling. As she got older, the stories became more complicated, sometimes taking weeks to get to the happy ending. Then one day, she decided to embrace the insomnia and start writing them down. Despite that, it still takes her forever to fall asleep.

Social Media Links: Facebook | Twitter

---

My Review

If you have ever read Virginia Heath’s books you expect many things. One is amazing and relatable characters. The other is sassiness. Maybe sassy is not the right word, but there is this powerful element with some smirk in the mix, if that makes any sense. It’s this quality of the characters that makes me want to be their friends and sometimes it makes me want to be them.

This story follows Hope, and our lovely female MC is not the typical character one may read in a Historical Romance. Hope is not nobility, although her family is important in the high society class. And I loved that, because I could relate to her even more. Then there is our handsome Marquess next door, Lucius, Marquess of Thundersley.

Every time I read Virginia Heath’s books I have that need to grab a fan and just join the moment and alleviate the heat going through my skin. I loved the steamy interactions between Hope and Lucius, and I loved even more that they not only had the attraction going, they also had a growing friendship.

Another thing I loved about this book was Lucius’ modesty and honesty. I loved how he acted. I loved the refreshing elements in this book that made it so different from others I have read by the author. And I actually believe that so far, this is my favorite book/story so far.

Overall, I don’t even know what else to say. There is drama, there is romance, there is family and friendship, there is a more common element of the society. And if you don’t know Virginia Heath after all the reviews I have done, you should stop and go get this book.

---

Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, with their reviews, basic promo/spotlight posts, guest posts, extracts and Q&As.

---

Giveaway

For a chance to Win one of the 2 e-copies of The Marquess Next Door CLICK HERE.

(Open Internationally)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

Advertisement

Lançamento do livro “Sete Boas Hitórias Para Dar A Volta À Cabeça”, de Ana Cláudia Dâmaso

Olá amigos!

Hoje venho partilhar convosco sobre o lançamento de um livro pelo qual tenho estado ansiosamente à espera.

“Sete Boas Histórias para Dar a Volta à Cabeça“, escrito por Ana Cláudia Dâmaso, é um livro de contos, o segundo da série Boas e Más Histórias, que será publicado dia 19 de Abril de 2021 pela Editora Cordel d’Prata.

---

O lançamento será realizado canal de Youtube da Ana Cláudia Dâmaso e poderão assistir através deste link: Live do Lançamento.

Já se encontram disponíveis exemplares para compra. Para tal basta contactarem a autora, acedendo às suas redes sociais e envia-lhe mensagem directa para garantir já o vosso exemplar autografado e com um marcador especial de lançamento.

*portes incluídos nos preços apresentados

---

Sinopse

Os jogos psicológicos surgem numa nova vertente neste segundo livro de contos de terror e paranormal de Ana Cláudia Dâmaso, desta vez passado em terras africanas.

Quão longe pode ir uma mãe desgostosa? Quanta esperança pode ter uma mulher atraiçoada? Por quanto tempo consegue Nora ignorar as lendas e mitos contados ao calar da noite?

Entre fantasmas, bruxas, anjos, caçadores e até Deus, quem realmente decidirá o Destino da Humanidade?

São sete histórias diferentes com elos tão fortes quanto a escuridão nocturna, onde os piores e mais inconscientes pesadelos tornam-se realidade.

Terás coragem para os enfrentar?

---

Sobre a Autora

Ana Cláudia Dâmaso nasceu em Lisboa, no ano de 1992.

Sempre possuiu uma mente criativa e, desde muito nova, sentiu a necessidade de colocar as suas ideias no papel.

Considerando-se uma amante de artes e desporto, aventureira e ávida por informação, Ana Cláudia encontra inspiração nos pequenos pormenores da vida quotidiana, da qual gosta de quebrar as suas rotinas.

Autora da saga distópica “Koldbrann”, da colecção de terror e paranormal “Boas e Más Histórias” e outros títulos de diferentes géneros literários, adora viajar e conhecer novos lugares, tendo por tradição acabar as suas obras sempre em locais diferentes.

Social Media Links: Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook | Youtube | TikTok | Twitter

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“The Spanish Girl” Review

Hello Friends!

Today was a bit crazy since I’m doing a course online and I had to do a presentation. But I’m finally able to post my review. Sorry it took a couple of hours to share.

“The Spanish Girl“, written by Jules Hayes, is a Historical novel, was published on 15th March 2021 by Orion Dash.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, Jules Hayes for the ebook, via Netgalley. Thank you for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

Synopsis

A country torn apart by war.
Two love stories divided by decades.
One chance to discover the truth… 

Feisty journalist Isabella has never known the truth about her family. Escaping from a dangerous assignment in the turbulent Basque country, she finds her world turned upside down, firstly by her irresistible attraction to the mysterious Rafael, and then by a new clue to her own past. 

As she begins to unravel the tangled story of her identity, Isabella uncovers a story of passion, betrayal and loss that reaches back to the dark days of Spain’s civil war – when a passionate Spanish girl risked everything for her country, and for the young British rebel who captured her heart. 

But can Isabella trust the man she’s fallen in love with? Or are some wartime secrets better left undisturbed…? 

Heartbreaking, gripping historical fiction about the tragedy of war, and the redemption of love. Perfect for fans of Angela Petch’s The Tuscan Secret and Kathryn Hughes’ The Letter.

Purchase Links: Amazon UK | Amazon US

---

About the Author

I have a degree in modern history and I’m fascinated with events from the first half of the 20th century, which is the time period my historical fiction is set.

My work has been longlisted in the Mslexia Novel Competition, and shortlisted in the prestigious Bridport Short Story Competition.

I live in Berkshire, UK with my partner, daughter and dog. Before writing stories, I was a physiotherapist.

Jules Hayes is a pseudonym for JA Corrigan who writes contemporary thrillers. Falling Suns by JA Corrigan (Headline Accent) was published in 2016.

Social Media Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

---

My Review

Historical Novel! Spain! So excited!

Okay, first of all, for those that don’t know and are reading this review, I’m from Portugal. Spain is our sibling country. We have a lot of history together. And although we do have some similar things in common we are definitely not the same. Yet, in school, we learned about some events that happened involving Portugal and Spain.

Honestly, I don’t think I have read a book, an historical fiction novel, about Spain back then, that made me as excited as this book. And, although I don’t know a lot about the entire history of Spain, and my memory wasn’t clear about the era in this novel, a recent time in history, I was still very fascinated, and I felt transported not just to the location, but back in time.

Although Rafael is the name of my brother and grandpa, written the same way, and that’s always weird to my brain at first… I loved the names of the characters. Actually, I loved the characters. I loved that we have a family dynamic and secrets. I love that we have romance and follow two stories separated by decades. I loved the characters development and their interactions, they were believable to me.

I also loved the theme. I love the way the social and cultural aspect appeared in a way. As well as the political situation. I loved the flow the story had because it gave me time to absorb every moment and every scene and information.

Overall, I enjoyed the story. It was quite a good surprise, not that I doubted the story or that I would like it. Yet, I was surprised by the connection I felt, by the love and sense of “finding the truth and who we are” that exist. I always love stories that have those elements because I can sometimes see myself in the characters, no matter their background story and the social, cultural, political or family situations.

---

Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour, from reviews to basic promo/spotlight posts.

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

“Our Little Secret” Review

Hello Friends!

Ready for a review of a steamy book?

“Our Little Secret“, written by Rachael Stewart, is a Contemporary Romance novel, a Standalone published on 1st March 2021, by Harlequin Mills & Boon.

Happy Publication Day!

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Rachael Stewart for the eCopy of this book, and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

Synopsis

A little secret sexy fun
Under the Tuscan sun!

It’s her best mate’s wedding week – and Faye Davenport is celebrating with a skinny dip under the Tuscan moon. Except she’s not alone. The sexy Italian dish is Rafael Perez – her mate’s off-limits older brother. But now it’s too late. This illicit, irresistible fire is already out of control…

Purchase Links: Harlequin | Amazon | Kobo

Author Warning: Explicit Sex and language.

---

About the Author

Rachael Stewart adores conjuring up stories for the readers of Harlequin Mills & Boon and Deep Desires Press, with tales varying from the heartwarmingly romantic to the wildly erotic.

She’s been writing since she could put pen to paper as the stacks of scrawled on A4 sheets in her loft will attest to, and the lovingly bound short stories that her father would run off at work and proudly share out with his colleagues. Thinking it was a pipe dream to be published one day, she pursued a sensible career in business but she was really play-acting, achieving the appropriate degree and spending many years in the corporate world where she never truly belonged. Always happiest when she was sat at her laptop in the quiet hours tapping out a story or two. And so here she is, a published author, her full-time pleasure, a dream come true.

A Welsh lass at heart, she now lives in Yorkshire with her husband and three children, and if she’s not glued to her laptop, she’s wrapped up in them or enjoying the great outdoors seeking out inspiration.

Social Media Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook

---

My Review

Did I love the plot? Yes! What’s not to like? It’s just what my doctor recommended, a relaxing, hot and dreamy story. Okay, actually, my doctor didn’t recommend that… but he should! I actually recommend it. If you want to have an enjoyable read, and the “best friend’s older brother” troupe is something that you love, grab this book, and get your dreams going.

The only thing I can say that it took me a while to separate in my mind is the name. My brother and my grandpa are named Rafael. Written the same way as this dashing Italian man. Once my mind went fully engaged in the story and not in the male family members, I understood Faye 100%.

Now, the characters… I loved the interactions; I loved the build-up; and I loved that there were so much more than the sexy times. That’s actually something I love in Rachael Stewart’s novels. They are character based and they have many topics connected with the characters. In this novel there is: Family, friendship, insecurities, drama, and romance (of course, the steamy kind).

Overall, I was not disappointed. And I’m happy I read this book and took a trip to Tuscany, during a wedding, and met Faye and Rafael. Loved them and loved their story.

---

Giveaway

For a chance to Win an e-copy of Our Little Secret by Rachael Stewart Click Here.

(Open International)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then I reserve the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time I will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

---

Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour with their reviews and basic promo / spotlight posts.

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post: “Enchanted Kingdoms”

Hello Friends!

Welcome to a world of magic, adventure, striking princes, daring princesses, happily ever afters, and once upon a times.

Today I bring you a promo post for a special cause.

“Enchanted Kingdoms“, a fantasy anthology, published 23rd February 2021 by Enchanted Quill Press.

---

Synopsis

Old tales: New twist

The stories you loved as a child have been twisted into wildly addictive tales that will bewitch you as an adult: enchanted castles, spellbinding magic, handsome princes, beautiful princesses, and as many happily-ever-afters as your heart desires.

Cherish this mesmerizing set of 20+ classic tales retold by a collection of best-selling and award-winning authors. Each novel-length story features a different take on your favorite fairytale.

Your every fantasy will come to life in ways you could never have imagined, packed full of heart-wrenching romance, gripping adventure, and magic that will weave you in its spell.

Scroll up and one-click now to grab this limited edition set before the clock strikes midnight!

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble

For only $0.99 for a limited time, you can embrace the fairytales on any device you prefer AND help Puzzle Peace United, a children’s charity for autism. 100% of profits are donated, and 100% of fairytale fun is yours to claim.

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post: “Vida Censurada” de Francisco Ramalheira

Olá meus queridos amigos!

Hoje venho divulgar um livro de uma editora portuguesa fantástica, Edições Velha Lenda.

“Vida Censurada“, escrito por Francisco Ramalheira, é um livro histórico, que será publicado a 15 de março de 2021 por Edições Velha Lenda.

---

Existem diverso géneros literários que adoro. Quer os mais abrangentes, quer os mais especificos.

Ficção Histórica é um desses géneros abrangentes que adoro. Isto porque não leio apenas romances históricos (regency, victorian, saga…), não, eu leio históricos.

Todos têm em comum a presença de um ambiente social e cultural durante um determinado período de tempo. E os livros históricos são sobre as pessoas que nele viviam.

Adoro compreender como uma personagem (que pode ser fictícia ou inspirada em alguém real) lidava com as circunstâncias da realidade em que vivia. Gosto bastante de ler e debater comigo própria sobre as mudanças que determinada sociedade e cultura teve (ou não) numa comparação com os meus valores e com a circunstância atual do mundo.

Algo maravilhoso deste livro é o facto de se que se foca na nossa história. Num período histórico que falamos na escola, que nos contam na rua, que os mais velhos relembram.

Por isso… Obrigada, Velha Lenda, por apostarem em históricos. Obrigada, Francisco, por escreveres sobre a nossa história.

---

Sinopse

Em 1926, a Primeira República é deposta e no seu lugar é implementada a Ditadura Militar, dando assim início ao regime autoritário mais longo da Europa Ocidental, no século XX. Ao mesmo tempo que a República caía, dois meninos de dez anos encontravam-se na Colina Verde para, despreocupadamente, brincarem e partilharem histórias.

Vida Censurada conta a história de vida de dois melhores amigos, João Maia e Toni Ribeiro, ao longo dos quarenta e oito anos de Ditadura em Portugal, acompanhando o seu crescimento, entrada na vida adulta e separação, quando o rumo que dão à sua vida torna impossível a manutenção desta amizade de infância: João procura combater o regime, enquanto Toni ingressa na PVDE.

Esta obra é o recordar de um período que faz parte do lado mais obscuro da nossa História e que nunca, em situação alguma, pode voltar.

Liberdade: sempre

Não se esqueçam de adicionar este livro na vossa TBR do Goodreads: Vida Censurada

---

Sobre o Autor

Francisco Ramalheira nasceu a 22 de Julho de 1988, em Lisboa. Licenciado em Ciências da Comunicação, com um Mestrado em Economia Social e Solidária, é o fundador da disciplina de Responsabilidade Social – um projecto pioneiro -, da qual é actualmente professor.
Foi chefe dos escuteiros e tirou ainda um curso de Escrita Humorística nas Produções Fictícias.

Tem como paixão a escrita e a literatura fantástica, tendo já integrado uma colectânea e lançado o seu primeiro livro dentro do género.

Mais importante ainda é o seu site ‘Caca Gambuzinos’, onde partilha através de textos bem-humorados a sua visão do mundo e divertidas críticas sociais.

A sua mais recente obra é ‘Um Livro de Caca – As Aventuras do Zé’, uma obra humorística baseada nas suas ‘Crónicas do Zé’, que conta com o prefácio do talentoso humorista David Cristina.

Social Media Links: Goodreads | Edições Velha Lenda | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

---

Não se esqueçam de comentar, não sejam estranhos.

Se tem alguma recomendação de livros que acham que deva ler podem enviar uma mensagem usando o formulário na página Contact Me.

Se desejarem juntarem-se a mim e serem convidados no blogue, escrevendo um post sobre um tema à vossa escolha, vejam a página Guests Post para saberem mais e para preparamos a sua visita.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post: “Vento” de Rita Palma Nascimento

Olá, meus queridos amigos!

Já devem saber que tenho seguido o trabalho maravilhoso que a Edições Velha Lenda tem feito. Tem sido fantástico ver os autores portuguese bem representados por uma editora que sabe valorizar o que é nacional.

E hoje trago um post sobre um livro que se encontra já em pré-venda.

“Vento“, escrito por Rita Palma Nascimento, um livro de poesia, que será publicado por Edições Velha Lenda em março.

---

Sinopse

Toda a alma é livre. E haverá algo mais livre que o vento?

Nesta obra onde abundam os versos, as emoções humanas são colocadas a nu e o ser poeta torna-se um com o seu leitor.

Rita Palma Nascimento traz-nos a tempestade na forma de VENTO.

Link the compra: Edições Velha Lenda

Podem ficar a par de todas as novidades da editora através: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads

---

Sobre a Autora

Nascida a 31 de Março de 1989, a bejense Rita Palma Nascimento tem nas palavras o seu mundo particular.

Começou a ver os seus poemas publicados no jornal da escola e mais tarde no semanário da cidade, DIÁRIO DO ALENTEJO, e no site noticioso TRIBUNA DO ALENTEJO.

Integrou antologias de poesia e venceu um concurso em 2015. Como freelancer escreveu diversos artigos para a OBVIOUS MAGAZINE e participou na idealização, criação e realização do Prémio Literário do Mosto à Palavra.

Contribuiu com artigos de cariz profissional para revistas do sector imobiliário e integrou voluntariamente projectos de divulgação artística, empresarial e da região, realizando entrevistas e aprofundando questões.

No seu blogue pessoal, CONTA-ME HISTÓRIAS, escreve desde 2016, tendo iniciado recentemente o seu caminho como letrista.

“Vento” é o seu primeiro livro de poesia.

Social Media Links: Website | Instagram

---

Não se esqueçam de comentar, não sejam estranhos.

Se tem alguma recomendação de livros que acham que deva ler, podem enviar uma mensagem usando o formulário na página Contact Me.

Se desejarem juntarem-se a mim e serem convidados no blogue, escrevendo um post sobre um tema à vossa escolha, vejam a página Guests Post para saberem mais e para preparamos a sua visita.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post: “Signor Ridini” de Hélène White

Olá, meus queridos amigos!

Hoje venho divulgar um livro da Edições Velha Lenda, que se encontra já em pré-venda e cujo lançamento será já este mês.

“Signor Ridini“, escrito por Hélène White, um romance erotico, que será publicado por Edições Velha Lenda.

---

Sinopse

Isabeau trabalhava num pequeníssimo e insignificante café de uma pacata zona da Provença. Numa vila rodeada por mares de púrpura, compostos por infinitas planícies de perfumada lavanda; um lugar onde a Primavera se mostrava teimosa para fenecer, ansiando pela rudeza das mãos de seu amante Verão.

Naquele lugar, os dias eram sempre iguais, a rotina comandava todos, principalmente a vida de Isabeau. Uma vida que não era mais que um inferno.

Mas tudo muda quando um Rolls-Royce se perde por aqueles caminhos e o dono da companhia aérea Ridini Airlines, o italiano Giacomo Ridini, emerge do seu interior…

Pré-venda: Edições Velha Lenda | Wook | Bertrand

Adicionem à vossa TBR do Goodreads o livro: Signor Ridini

---

Podem ficar a par de todas as novidades da editora através:

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads

---

Não se esqueçam de comentar, não sejam estranhos.

Se tem alguma recomendação de livros que acham que deva ler, podem enviar uma mensagem usando o formulário na página Contact Me.

Se desejarem juntarem-se a mim e serem convidados no blogue, escrevendo um post sobre um tema à vossa escolha, vejam a página Guests Post para saberem mais e para preparamos a sua visita.

Love,

Jess

“The Villa of Dreams” Review

Hello Friends!

This book is quite special and once you start reading my review, you will understand it.

“The Villa of Dreams“, written by Lucy Coleman, is a Women’s Fiction novel, published on 1st December 2020, by Boldwood Books.

I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lucy Coleman for the eCopy of this book, via Netgalley and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

---

Synopsis

Seren Maddison left behind a rainy Britain to follow her dreams and live and work in Lisbon. The vibrancy, the beautiful scenery and the sunshine, made her fall in love and she knew, instantly, that it would be her forever home.

International artist Reid Henderson has homes in Lisbon and London. Following his painful divorce, his dream is to turn his luxurious home into an art school and gallery.

When Seren and Reid first meet there is an instant attraction, but they are both people who have been hurt, and each have dreams that are so far apart, they aren’t even on the same page. 

Can they enjoy one summer of happiness together, as life bestows a gift of memories to cherish for the rest of their lives? Or is their destiny to chart a path into the future, in a home where dreams can come true?

Seren and Reid may be about to discover that love is as much about what you are prepared to give up, as what you are prepared to keep hold of.

Let Lucy Coleman transport you away to sun-drenched Portugal where true love really can conquer all, and home is where the heart is. Perfect for all fans of Trisha Ashley, Holly Martin and Sue Moorcroft.

Purchase Link: Amazon

---

About the Author

Lucy Coleman is a #1 bestselling romance writer, whose recent novels include Summer in Provence and Snowflakes over Holly Cove. She also writes under the name Linn B. Halton. She won the 2013 UK Festival of Romance: Innovation in Romantic Fiction award and lives in the Welsh Valleys.

Social Media Links – Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

---

My Review

If you don’t know me, let me tell you something first. I was born and raised in the central coast of Portugal, in the Leiria District. That been said, you may already understand why I would be excited for this book, if you read the synopsis.

It’s always quite exciting when I read a book, one written in English, and I find Portuguese words in the mix. It’s also quite funny to read “river Tagus” when it has always been “Tejo” for me. It all makes my polyglot brain excited and happy.

In the middle of all those words, we follow Seren Maddison and a group of artists – including Reid Henderson, the love interest in this romance. The artistic side of the story adds this interesting element to the plot. I loved that and I wished it was true and I could see all the artwork in real life.

Honestly the multicultural elements in the book was what truly got me. Portugal is a country of diversity, although people tend to forget about that. And nowadays with the globalization, the migration flow, the big cities, like Lisboa, tend to have more culture represented in the streets. It’s in the art, architecture, in the voices, in the thoughts and tradition, and in the food and drinks.

The book made me have multiple feelings, sometimes at the same time, others it was as the story went. Usually, books that happened in other countries transport me to that place and it’s like a trip without living my room. And I’m sure many people felt that while reading this story because it was quite beautifully done, that I’m sure some readers googled all of the places mentioned and all the Portuguese things talked about, like the wine and Pastéis de Belém.

Let’s be honest, this is my country. Although I haven’t visit all of it, I have been to Lisboa plenty of times. I was already at home, so it didn’t transport me per say to Lisboa. BUT! It had another effect. It made me feeling as if I was on a trip to Lisboa with my French family or with friends that have never been there. It had that excitement because other were excited as well about the city, the people, the history and gastronomy.

Reading a book set in my country by a non-Portuguese author, makes me wonder about the research the write has done and why Portugal. Why Lucy Coleman picked my lovely, imperfect, sunny and rainy, country to set her story in. Maybe every aspect of the book related to Portugal is the reason. Why I think that? Because the book had this hospitality quality to it. Something I quite loved. Something I hope any tourist experiences while visiting Portugal.

Overall, It was a beautiful book. We don’t just fall in love with the characters, we fall in love with the entirety of the book. From the art to the people behind it. From the streets of busy Lisboa area to the interactions between the characters. From the love, to family, to friends and to new adventures in a different country.

The Villa of Dreams. A Vila dos Sonhos. And that truly was the perfect title for this book. For me, sonhos is just the start. “E agora eu finalmente sei o que significa felicidade… para sempre.” To my English speaker friends, that have read the book, you may know what that sentence means, to those that haven’t, it’s a good opportunity to read it.

---

Don’t forget to check out all the other bloggers that given their contribute in this Blog Tour with their reviews.

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess

Promo Post & Excerpt: “Lord of London Town”, by Tillie Cole

Hello Friends!

Today I bring you a lovely post about a book I recently read. It’s not the review yet I have that planned for this week. Today is the celebration of the Release and I bring you an Excerpt to tempt you.

“Lord of London Town“, written by Tillie Cole, is a Dark Contemporary Romance, published 13th October 2020.

---

Synopsis

Cheska Harlow-Wright was born into a life of luxury and privilege. She has never wanted for anything. A comfortable future as a married London socialite awaits her. But since the age of thirteen, Cheska has harboured a secret—an unshakeable fixation on a boy who could never offer her anything close to comfort. A boy steeped in sin and draped in depravity. A boy born into the possessive embrace of darkness.

When Cheska’s seemingly perfect world is ripped apart by an unknown but deadly enemy, there’s only one person she can run to. One person in the world who has the power to keep her safe. The one person her weak and shattered heart craves.

Arthur Adley. The new head of the most feared crime family in London.

Forced too young to take the helm of the Adley firm, Arthur has become even more ruthless, formidable, and cold than ever before. His enemies are circling, and he must fight—and kill—to maintain his family’s place at the top of the London crime underworld. There is no room for weakness, emotion, or loss of control.

But then Cheska smashes back into his life with the force of a wrecking ball. She has no place in this dark, vicious, and bloodthirsty world. And worse, she is the solitary chink in his impenetrable armour. He’s already pushed her away once, but this time she desperately needs him. She’s broken, lost, and in danger, and he is the only one who can help.

Arthur must protect her. He must destroy those who dare to threaten her, hunt down those who would take what is his. He would raze all of London to the ground to keep her safe… but can he also protect himself?

The infamous Dark Lord of London Town faces his most brutal battle yet—the crippling weight of the past, the unrelenting enemies lurking in the shadows… and the havoc that Cheska’s presence is wreaking on the granite fortress that was once his heart.

Dark contemporary Romance. Contains sexual situations, violence and sensitive subjects that some may find triggering.

Purchase Links: Amazon | Kobo

---

About the author

Tillie Cole hails from a small town in the North-East of England. She grew up on a farm with her English mother, Scottish father and older sister and a multitude of rescue animals. As soon as she could, Tillie left her rural roots for the bright lights of the big city.

After graduating from Newcastle University with a BA Hons in Religious Studies, Tillie followed her Professional Rugby player husband around the world for a decade, becoming a teacher in between and thoroughly enjoyed teaching High School students Social Studies before putting pen to paper, and finishing her first novel.

Tillie has now settled in Austin, Texas, where she is finally able to sit down and write, throwing herself into fantasy worlds and the fabulous minds of her characters.

Tillie is both an independent and traditionally published author, and writes many genres including: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance, Young Adult and New Adult novels.

When she is not writing, Tillie enjoys nothing more than curling up on her couch watching movies, drinking far too much coffee, while convincing herself that she really doesn’t need that extra square of chocolate.

Social Media Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

---

Excerpt

ARTHUR

I pushed my glasses up my nose and climbed the stairs. The heat of the Spanish sun slammed into me like an iron fist, and I pushed my dark hair back from my forehead. White Mediterranean buildings surrounded us, and tourists sat in restaurants and bars, gaping up at our yacht.

I joined my friends on the rear deck overlooking the restaurants and took a beer from Eric. He spread his arms. “Fucking paradise, boys.” I took a swig of my beer and glanced over to the yacht beside us. I didn’t see anyone on the back deck, but then I heard the people talking at the front of their boat, overlooking the sea.

“So, where are these spectacular views?” Charlie asked Eric, lighting up another cig.

Eric winced as he met my cousin’s waiting gaze. “Well, maybe not spectacular to you, Chuck, but definitely to the rest of us.” He flicked his eyes to Vinnie, who was circling the back deck like it was a track, and screwed up his nose. “Okay, maybe not to our resident nutjob either since he already has a bird. But to me, Freddie and Artie, what a view it is!”

“Story of my fucking life.” Charlie smirked at me. I followed Eric as he headed for the main sun deck at the very front of the yacht.

“The edge gone yet?” I asked Vinnie. He nodded, and I could see by his eyes that his medication had kicked in. His pupils had dilated a bit, and the shaking in his hands had lessened. “Getting calmer by the second, Artie. Getting calmer by the second.” He smiled again, his deep dimples making him look a fuck-ton more innocent than he actually was. I put my hand on his shoulder, right over the face of Nosferatu with his sharp vampiric teeth that was tattooed there.

“So, who are we docked next to?” Freddie asked Eric. Freddie was six feet two with dark brown hair and brown eyes. He was slender in build but could fight like a fucking Rottweiler. His old man died a while back, for the firm, shot right through the fucking forehead by a Russian. My dad practically adopted Freddie after that. He’d lived with us in the old church for the past couple of years. He was quiet before his old man’s death. Now, compared to the rest of my gobshite mates, he was almost mute.

“Wait until you see,” Eric said, waggling his eyebrows. Eric was six four, blond and covered in bright-as-fuck horror-themed clown tattoos. His hair looked like something straight from World War Two—combed over like a good little British solider. Claimed birds got wet for it—we all knew that was mainly referring to Betsy, my cousin and Charlie’s little sister. But neither he or Betsy ever talked about that. He also rarely shut his mouth. But that didn’t matter when shit hit the fan. He had your back, one hundred percent without question.

As we turned the corner, I saw movement on the yacht beside us. Birds in bikinis, some topless. I couldn’t care less. Seen one pair of tits, you’d seen them all. Bored already, I lit another cig and moved to the front of the yacht. I looked out over the ocean.

“Nice tits, sweetheart!” I heard Eric shout behind me. I glanced over to the yacht beside us and saw two girls sunbathing, looking our way—one with dark skin and jet-black hair that fell in spiral curls to her shoulders, and one with light freckled skin and red hair down to her waist.

I went to turn my head again, when someone walked out from below deck and toward the two sunbathers. The hand holding my cig stopped en route to my mouth when I saw her long legs and olive skin. The dark hair that was pulled up on top of her head. She was wearing a white bikini, fucking curves like an hourglass.

As if she was feeling my stare, she looked over, and the minute she did, I recognised those eyes. Those big fucking eyes that were fixed on me and widening by the second. Green-brown eyes that I never fucking forgot…

Cheska Harlow-Wright…

---

Don’t forget to comment, don’t be stranger. If you have any book recommendation you can leave a message using the form on my Contact Me page.

If you are an author or publisher and want me to do a review of a book please check out my Request Review page to learn more about the reviewing policies.

I always welcome new books to add to my list and I’m always excited to do reviews and read books. And I’m open to debate and exchange opinions, so let’s talk.

Also, if you would like to join me as a guest on my blog, check out the Guests Post page to know more and contact me so we can start planing your visit.

Love,

Jess