The Love Theorem by Camilla Isley

Are a rocket scientist and one of Hollywood’s brightest stars a match made in heaven or is it a catastrophe headed for a crash landing?

Lana loves four things: science, her cats, her friends, and her books. She’s on her way to earning her professorship when she finds out her long-term boyfriend has been sleeping with her best friend! That discovery has her hiding in the broom closet at a posh hotel. 

Only, it turns out broom closets are the place to be these days.  

Christian Slade, America’s sexiest man alive (as voted by fans), in a desperate attempt to escape the paparazzi finds himself in a broom closet with one sobbing occupant. Unable to leave a damsel in distress, he offers help, only to realise she has no idea who he is! It’s like he’s been given a gift. A smart, beautiful woman, who isn’t after him for fame and fortune . . . 

Soon Christian is buying a Tesla to impress his scientist with his eco credentials and taking her on dates where no one will recognise him.  

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/thelovetheoremsocial

Review

The Love Theorem is a cute, funny romance about the scientist next door and the guy on the screen. Though they're not perfect - Lana is stubborn and her cheating ex has made her paranoid, Christian means well but stardom means he sometimes loses touch with reality - I thoroughly enjoyed these two falling in love and finding a balance that works for them.

I would've loved to see more of the background characters, and I'm glad to see some of them are getting their own books. I'm interested in seeing how Summer and Winter (Lana's childhood best friends) shake out going forward, given Summer kickstarted the plot by having an affair with Lana's boyfriend. Most of all, I'd like to see Penny (Christian's assistant) get a happy ending because she is hands down the most sensible person in this book.

It's a bit cheesy and full of wish fulfillment but reading this book made me happy. Also, Lana's passion for women in STEM is simply awesome. If you want a feel good Cinderella-style rom-com that swings between the wilds of academia and Hollywood luxury, please give this book a go!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio 

Camilla Isley is an engineer who left science behind to write bestselling contemporary rom-coms set all around the world. She lives in Italy and her first title for Boldwood, The Love Theorem, a Hollywood-meets-STEM romance, will be published in June 2023. 

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camilla.isley.10
Twitter: https://twitter.com/camillaisley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camillaisley/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/CamillaIsleyNews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/camilla-isley

Blog Tour: Spin the Bottle by Isabella May

CELESTE thought she had long forgotten the sweet, citrusy kiss she shared with TRAVIS during a game of spin the bottle. Splitting her time between her accounts office in super Instagrammable Notting Hill, and her tiny apartment in quirky Exmouth Market, modern-day life is simply too busy for men. Besides, whenever she tries to find The One, it always ends in disaster. From Tinder tragedies to trampolining tribulations, Celeste is starting to think that she's cursed.

But then Travis begins to pop up wherever she goes, and Celeste knows with stomach-sinking clarity that fate has finally caught up with them. Inspired by the idea of fake dating, Celeste is convinced the only way out of this mess is to call the curse's bluff. But will Travis agree to it? And how can she manage not to fall in love?

Pour yourself a lemonade and escape with this gorgeous will-they-won't-they rom-com set between London and Gibraltar!

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/spinthebottle

Review

Celeste is cursed. Every quirky date she plans goes hilariously, hopelessly wrong. Her so-called best friend Mel thinks she's being over dramatic but Celeste can't let go of a teenage kiss and an old lady's prophecy, especially when the subject of both keeps popping up at every turn. Travis thinks she's crazy when she suggests fake dating to break the curse, but how long will it stay fake?

There's something sugary sweet and sometimes spicy about this book. Disastrous dates aside, Celeste is living a charmed life, right until Travis stumbled back into it. While initial meetings are not promising, there is a ton of UST just simmering under the surface. It makes me wonder if Celeste and Travis would've gotten together faster without the curse hanging over their heads.

Nevertheless, the banter is witty, the romance is lively and light, and there's just a hint of the supernatural. For a fan of fake dating, unique date ideas, and lemons, this book will tickle your fancy.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own  

Author Bio
Isabella May lives in (mostly) sunny Andalusia, Spain with her husband, daughter and son, creatively inspired by the mountains and the sea. She grew up in Somerset on Glastonbury's ley lines and loves to feature her quirky English hometown in her stories.
After a degree in Modern Languages and European Studies at UWE, Bristol (and a year working abroad in Bordeaux and Stuttgart), Isabella bagged an extremely jammy and fascinating job in children's publishing... selling foreign rights for novelty, board, pop-up and non-fiction books all over the world; in every language from Icelandic to Korean, Bahasa Indonesian to Papiamento!
All of which has fuelled her curiosity and love of international food and travel - both feature extensively in her romcoms.
Isabella is also a Level 4 Pranic Healer and a stillbirth mum.

Social Media Links
www.isabellamayauthor.com
Twitter - @IsabellaMayBks
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/IsabellaMayAuthor/
Instagram - @isabella_may_author

Blog Tour: Let's Not Be Friends by Phoebe MacLeod

Perfect for fans of Jo Watson, Mhairi McFarlane and Portia MacIntosh.

City girl Sophie has married the prince (or landed gentry - close enough), moved to his pile (which is more accurate a description than she’d anticipated) and is set to live happily ever after - until she finds the other half of her perfect life in the stables with the stable girl, and they’re definitely not grooming the horses.

Shocked and appalled, Sophie’s no happier to learn that she’s supposed to 'just get on with it'. After all, according to her mother-in-law, she got the title . . . they even overlooked her family’s ‘new money’ status.

What a lovely family she’s married into! But what’s a girl to do when she’s still in love? Make it work or leg it as fast as she can? Either way, the mother-in-law will not be coming to tea!

What readers are saying about Phoebe MacLeod:

'A perfect love story'

'Humorous, light and romantic!'

'I absolutely loved it. Heart-warming, just perfect!'

 'I loved every minute reading this book, light hearted and fun, finished in a day!'

'I smiled so much'

'What a wonderful book'

'Fantastic'

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3KelOne

Review

Less of a romance and more of the best revenge being living well, this is a charming book about Sophie putting her life back together after she catches her devoted husband banging the stable girl and his mother admits they only accepted her as a daughter in law for her inheritance. While a HFN is part of her happy ending, it's not the central theme of the plot.

It can be hard to empathise with Sophie due to her privileged upbringing and indulgent parents, but she's genuinely kind and hard working, and at least somewhat aware of her privilege. I also love that she enjoys and is good at her job, and it's central to her reclaiming her life instead of a slog. 

I adored the scenes where she got to tell her ex off; they were super satisfying and more numerous than you'd think. The book also focuses on Sophie's many female friendships and generally women are only portrayed in a negative light when they set themselves up in competition to other women. 

This is a satisfying post-divorce romp with tons of female friendships, low angst, and a heap of fun. 

Disclaimer: I received this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio 

Phoebe MacLeod is the author of several popular laugh-out-loud romantic comedies. She mainly sets her books in her home county of Kent and her first new title for Boldwood will be published in November 2022. They will also be republishing her existing titles from August this year.

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhoebeMacleodAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/macleod_phoebe
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoebemacleod21/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/PhoebeMacLeodNews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/phoebe-macleod

Blog Tour: It Could Happen by Melissa Baldwin

I don't like change. That's fine, because I, Tori Hayes, am quite content with my single status and fulfilling sales career. I'll make an exception and step out of my comfort zone to be a part of my college bestie's wedding party. Anything for a friend, you know?

But this—this is not what I thought it would be. Suddenly, I'm thrown into drama that only a Southern belle bride and her friends can stir up. The secrets, the lies, the deception—it's more than I can take. Not to mention that groomsman Tyler, who seems to know exactly how to push my buttons.

I don't like my buttons pushed. Or maybe I do.

Dashing groomsmen aside, why do I keep finding myself in the middle of all this madness? I want to support Caroline and give her the perfect day, but things are getting messy and fast. Is there going to be a happy ending amid all this chaos?

It could happen …

USA Today bestselling author Melissa Baldwin presents a brand new romantic comedy about friendship and finding love when you least expect it.

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3wALswP

Review

I had so much fun reading this book! It's full of drama and shenanigans in the best way, because you know everything is going to be alright in the end. In a nice twist, the bride (and her mom) are the opposite of bridezillas, but her wedding party has tension from the get-go. The friend group seem like a powder keg and this wedding is the spark ready to blow up in their faces.

Tori is such a fun POV character - her outsider status gives her a unique perspective on the others in the group and she and Tyler have the best banter, even if she takes a startlingly long time to realise it's flirting. She is also facing upheaval at work and the chats with her work bestie provide a nice counterpoint to the slowly-imploding wedding party. I loved how she stood up for herself both personally and professionally!

Grab some popcorn and dig in, because this is the wedding of the century if they can get everyone down the aisle!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio

USA Today bestselling author Melissa Baldwin is a planner-obsessed Disney fan who still watches Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.
She’s a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of twenty-five Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.
When she isn't deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, chauffeuring her daughter, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.

Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormelissabaldwin
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbaldwinauthor/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpbaldwinauthor
Website: http://www.authormelissabaldwin.com/  
Reader Tribe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/573095816362090/ 

Giveaway to Win a $10 Amazon Gift Card (Open INT)
*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.
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Blog Tour: One Last Day of Summer by Shari Low

As a flight to St Lucia leaves the runway, four passengers meet for the first time.

After escaping her controlling husband, Bernadette Manson is taking the first extravagant holiday of her new life. But when her best friend cancels, will she be strong enough to fly solo?

Tadgh Donovan is about to jet off to his destination wedding when he sees a shocking text. Has his bride-to-be written her wedding vows… or already broken them?

Hayley Ford is the wife of a top fertility specialist yet her battle to get pregnant has almost broken her marriage. Can a trip to the sun heal their relationship or should she brace for a crash landing?

Dev Robbins is crossing oceans to track down the woman he fell in love with at first sight. Will it be a one way trip to happy ever after or a return journey to singledom?

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3kKtjX2

Review

This book had me hooked from the very first page! Four strangers, unlucky or unhappy in love, find themselves unexpected seat mates on a nine-hour flight to St Lucia. Over the course of one day they share their lives, their hopes, and their fears - and by the end of the day, everything has changed.

Each of the characters are great in their own distinct way. Bernadette is a nurse, taking a risk for the first time since exiting her abusive marriage. She is loving and stable and the voice of reason of this little bunch. Tadgh is supposed to be getting married but a killer hangover and insistent doubts have soured his mood. Hayley misses the outgoing, carefree woman she used to be but new friends and a change of scenery might help her find herself. Good-natured Dev is trying to write a romcom (a little meta, but I'll allow it) but is stunningly oblivious to the real world around him. Even the side characters add richness and depth to the relationships - new, old, loving or dysfunctional.

Add some free-flowing alcohol (gleefully supplied my my new fave cabin crew Stefan) and the forced intimacy of a long haul flight, and you have an entertaining, clever, and feel good story that kept me up past my bedtime. Beware, it's not without its share of emotional moments - keep an eye out for emotional abuse, fertility problems, and infidelity - but all so well-written and balanced that the payoff is worth the journey. There are tons of clever one-liners and quoteable lines to lighten the mood.

Best enjoyed when wishing you were anywhere but here because if you read this on a plane you might miss a conversation that would change your life!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio
Shari Low is the #1 bestselling author of over 30 novels, including My One Month Marriage and One Summer Sunrise and a collection of parenthood memories called Because Mummy Said So. She lives near Glasgow.

Social Media Links
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/sharilowbooks
Twitter https://twitter.com/sharilow
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sharilowbooks/
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/ShariLownews
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/shari-low

Blog Tour: Girl on the Run and Girl having a Ball by Rhoda Baxter (with international giveaway!)

Girl On The Run

 After a humiliating split from her celebrity ex, Jane is hiding from the spotlight. She’s moved city, moved jobs and changed her hair. She wants to disappear and finish her training as a patent attorney.
Marshall has worked hard for years and nomination to the partnership is tantalisingly close. He must avoid scandal at any cost.

When they meet, their attraction is impossible to ignore. Neither wants a fuss, but with the paparazzi following Jane and an office trouble maker determined to sabotage their relationship, they can’t escape unscathed.

Girl on the Run is the first in a series of standalone contemporary romances. Ideal for fans of Mhairi McFarlane or Sue Moorcroft.

Purchase Link - www.books2read.com/u/mlKGaZ 

Only 99p until 20th November

Review

In a refreshing twist on the rockstar romance, the rockstar is the ex and the heroine gets the grovel! This was a light and enjoyable romance about two normal people navigating the trials of everyday life while falling in love at the most inconvenient time. Marshall is a bit of a stickler with his younger sister but he is hard-working and has such a good heart. It's no surprise that the office is in love with him! I really admire Jane's tenacity at starting afresh and her determination, even after having her world upended. I did find her a little naive and overly trusting, you'd think she'd be better at picking out insincerity.

Speaking of insincerity, I found it really interesting how the events at Jane and Marsh's workplace reflect recent events in law firms locally. It made it realistic but not necessarily the most satisfying. I did like the rest of the staff, especially Jim, whose advice to Marsh and communications with his own wife Louise carried much of the humour.

It's worth noting that this is a semi-epistolary novel, with lots of plot-relevant communication occuring via email or text. This is quite a useful way to give readers context while maintaining the POVs, but takes a while to get used to.

Overall, I enjoyed this read and would recommend it to fans of contemporary romance who prefer it more sweet than steamy and more funny than angsty (though it does have it moments of both of the latters!). Best enjoyed on your day off so you can feel smug at all these characters stressing about work.

Girl Having A Ball

Twenty two year old Stevie needs to prove to everyone that she’s a grown up. So she throws herself into her dream of becoming an event planner by agreeing to organise a fundraising ball in Oxford. Add a rambling house, a committee that can’t agree and budget that’s far too small, Stevie thinks things can’t get worse. Until her childhood crush, her big brother’s old housemate, turns up.

Tom is working hard to be the success his mother wants him to be. When he realises that the ball his mum and her friends are organising will be run by his friend’s baby sister ‘poor, needy Stevie’, he steps in to avoid disaster. But Stevie is no longer a teenager, she’s a disturbingly attractive young woman … and she’s not about to let anyone get in her way.

Shortlisted for the 2017 Romantic Comedy Award from the Romantic Novelists’ Association, Girl Having a Ball is the second standalone novel in Rhoda Baxter’s Smart Girls series. Ideal for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Sue Moorcroft.

Purchase Link - https://books2read.com/GHAB

Review 

Less funny but more compelling than the first book in the series, I enjoyed the character arcs both Stevie and Tom experienced - Stevie in standing on her own two feet, and Tom learning that a successful career isn't all it's cracked up to be. I especially liked Stevie having to deal with teenagers and realising how awful she must have been at the same age.

Despite the short time frame, I believed in their relationship due to their history and a lot of quality time during ball preparations. I love that it showed Stevie's creative abilities and everyone working together to get the job done - Tom's niece Alice provides a nice foil to the youth everyone sees in Stevie and she says some truths that the adults are too polite to mention. There's a few plot threads that felt a little glossed over as Stevie and Marsh's sibling relationship took over the B plot, but I liked how the story overall ended up at a satisfying and logical conclusion.

Best enjoyed in your favourite dancing shoes, come and spend some time behind the scenes of the hottest party in Oxford!

Disclaimer: I received these books from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio 

Rhoda Baxter writes romantic comedies about people who make her laugh. A microbiologist by training, Rhoda loves all things science geeky. She also loves cake, crochet and playing with Lego. You can find out more about her (and get a free book by signing up to her newsletter) on her website. 

Social Media Links
Websites: www.rhodabaxter.com
Twitter: @rhodabaxter
Facebook page: https://en-gb.facebook.com/RhodaBaxterAuthor/
Bookbub profile link: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhoda-baxter

Giveaway to Win e-copies of Girl On The Run, Girl Having A Ball, and Girl in Trouble (Open INT)
*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.
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Blog Tour: Red Velvet by Carla Luna

Faking it has never been so much fun… 

In her ultra-competitive family, April Beckett is used to taking last place. For years, she’s put up with jabs about her modest job and her pathetic love life. Especially after she tried to impress her older sisters with a fake boyfriend in college and failed miserably. But now she has a smoking-hot date for her brother’s wedding, guaranteed to wow them.

Until he bails. Cue total desperation.

Without April’s friendship, Brody Blackwood wouldn’t have survived his last breakup. So, if she needs a plus-one for a family wedding, he’s all in. Even if it means pretending to be her boyfriend. And committing to six days of activities at a wooded resort in Wisconsin. But how hard could a relaxing getaway with your best friend be?

Too bad there’s a grueling 10K race and a cutthroat trivia night to endure. Not to mention a massive secret to protect. But will the biggest secret of all turn out to be that this fake relationship feels more real than April or Brody ever imagined?

Purchase Links
Website: https://www.carlalunabooks.com/red-velvet
Books2Read Link: https://books2read.com/u/m0KQrW

Review

When April's plus-one to her brother's wedding falls through, her best friend Brody steps up to the plate. He's nursing his own broken heart but April was there for him during his own bad break-up and the miserable months that followed. Pretending to be her boyfriend at a destination wedding is the least he can do. April's family might be ultra-competitive and she might have been nursing a crush on him for the last few years, but they can pull this off, right?

Like the namesake cupcakes, Red Velvet is sweet and delicious, full of banter and character growth. I loved both April and Brody, seeing their similarities and differences - April is the short and curvy graphic designer in a family of competitive corporate high-fliers, whereas Brody is the second son of a multimillion dollar business, and both feel like they can never live up to their parents' expectations. They complemented each other so well - April helps Brody realise what he actually wants out of life and he helps her stand up to her overbearing family. Both felt like real people with real problems, and yet I fully believed in their happily ever after.

Family is a strong theme through this book (and likely the whole series) and April's family surely deserve an honourable mention here, especially the decent ones. They might push and prod too far but it comes from a place of love - and this book does a good job at respecting that love while still drawing boundaries. The trivia quiz was possibly my favourite scene and even though the series is about Brody's family, I surely hope Ginger gets her own book (and away from her parents!).

Light, sexy, and entertaining: I'm definitely interested in reading more by this author! Best enjoyed on the couch with a glass of wine.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio
Carla Luna writes contemporary romance with a dollop of humor and a pinch of spice. A former archaeologist, she still dreams of traveling to far-off places and channels that wanderlust into the settings of her stories. When she’s not writing, she works in a spice emporium where she gets paid to discuss food and share her favorite recipes. Her passions include Broadway musicals, baking, whimsical office supplies, and pop culture podcasts. Though she has roots in Los Angeles and Victoria, B.C., she currently resides in Wisconsin with her family and her spoiled Siberian cat.

Social Media Links
Website: www.carlalunabooks.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/casacullen
FB Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/CarlaLunaAuthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlalunacullen/

Blog Tour: the Dating Game by Sandy Barker

‘Hilarious and highly original’ ~ Julie Houston, bestselling author of A Village Affair

Once upon a time, twelve women joined the hottest reality TV show looking for love. Except one had a secret identity . . .

Abby Jones is a serious writer. Or at least she will be, one day. Right now, she spends her time writing recaps of reality television under a secret identity.

When a recap for The Stag – the must-watch dating show – goes viral, her editor thinks she should be on set, writing the drama as it happens. The good news: the next season will be filmed in Sydney. Sun, sea and a glamorous trip abroad, this could be Abby’s big break.

The bad news: the producers don’t just want Abby to write the recaps, they want her to be on the show. Abby can’t think of anything worse than being undercover and followed around by cameras. But her career depends on it, and when she meets gorgeous producer Jack, Abby begins to wonder if this job might not be so bad after all . . .

Review

Abby Jones pays rent by writing snarky recaps of The Stag, a Batchelor-type reality show where multiple women, nicknamed 'Does', vie for the affections of a handsome 'Stag'. When one recap goes viral, Abby is offered (ordered) the chance to go undercover as a Doe on the next season to write her recaps from inside the Manor. Armed with a makeover, a new background, and dossiers on her competition, 'Doe Abby' jets off to Sydney. Unfortunately, it's a lot harder to be clever when the subjects aren't just characters, they're fast becoming friends, and soon Abby is juggling her secret identity, the Stag, her competition, and the attention of one of the producers - as well as getting her recaps in on time!

I seriously enjoyed this book. It's a little slow to start as it introduces Abby and gets her to Sydney, but once she arrives at Stag Manor the book really gets going. This is a story about love, but it's also a story about friendship, as the friendships Abby makes among some of the Does drive the story just as much if not more than the eventual love story. I was a little apprehensive at the start, given Abby's rather catty review of the previous season of the Stag, and yes, some of the Does are written as Fillers or out-and-out Villains, but the majority of them are layered and complex characters with their own voices and motivations (and given the cast list is at the back, reducing some of the Does to stereotypes does help one keep track of who's who). Her mum gets one of the best scenes in the book.

Abby is a hoot and her recaps are entertaining if sometimes confusingly entwined with her inner monologue (I received an ARC so I'm hoping the formatting will make the distinction clearer in the final copy). I enjoyed watching her mature and learn to reconcile her multiple identities (Abigail Jones, would-be journalist; 'Doe Abby', hopeful contestant; Anastasia Blabbergasted, witty recapper) in order to claim her own happy ending.

Laugh-out-loud and deliciously entertaining, this book has all the drama of a so-called reality show but no celebrities were harmed in the making! Best enjoyed with a fruity cocktail while wearing some strappy stilettos

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Purchase Links
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dating-Game-romantic-comedy-Santorini-ebook/dp/B096TBRT6B/
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-dating-game/id1571261358
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Sandy_Barker_The_Dating_Game?id=iwQyEAAAQBAJ
Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-dating-game-sandy-barker/1139650830
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/au/en/ebook/the-dating-game-30

Author Bio
Sandy is a writer, traveller and hopeful romantic with a lengthy bucket list, and many of her travel adventures have found homes in her novels. She’s also an avid reader, a film buff, a wine lover and a coffee snob. She lives in Melbourne Australia with her partner, Ben, who she met while travelling in Greece. Their real-life love story inspired Sandy’s debut novel One Summer in Santorini, the first in the Holiday Romance series with One More Chapter, an imprint of HarperCollins. 

Follow Sandy:
https://twitter.com/sandybarker
https://www.facebook.com/sandybarkerauthor
https://sandybarker.com/
https://www.instagram.com/sandybarkerauthor/

Blog Tour: Uncork My Love by Rich Amooi (with giveaway!)

A sweet romantic comedy set in beautiful Napa Valley!

Ivy needs a miracle and a drink—not necessarily in that order. With a struggling winery, the only hope of keeping her dream alive is snagging a gold medal at the annual wine competition. She’s determined to win, but she can do it without the help of Ted Jacobs, aka Mr. Know-it-All.

Ted wants to catch lightning in a bottle and create the world’s greatest wine, but he’s smart enough to know he can’t do it alone. When he heads to Napa to keep his grandma from ending up in jail (don’t ask), he meets Ivy. She’s as complex and intoxicating as his award-winning cabernet, but as stubborn as the mule next door when she stomps on his offer to collaborate.

Ted knows it’s risky to mix business with pleasure, but if Ivy would only listen, they might just be the toast of the town.

Purchase Links
UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Uncork-My-Love-Rich-Amooi-ebook/dp/B08WRGDY48
US  - https://www.amazon.com/Uncork-My-Love-Rich-Amooi-ebook/dp/B08WRGDY48

Review

I gotta say, after reading this book I want a glass of wine, and I'm not even a big wine drinker! Wine-making is described in such lush detail, the budding romance almost sneaks up on you.

Ted and Ivy are rival winemakers, forced into proximity by meddling grandmothers and united in their desire to make the perfect wine. Ivy's betrayal at the hands of her ex has closed her heart to all newcomers but Ted manages to wrangle his way in there, almost against his will. For his part, Ted just wants to buy a vine and go home, until his growing awareness of Ivy reminds him there is more to life than wine (if only barely).

Their terrible first impressions are hilarious, as is Ted's inability to keep his shirt clean. It was a joy to watch their interactions grow from acrimonious to accepting to affectionate. I must say that Ted frustrated me, especially at first, with his arrogance and insistence on giving advice. He definitely learns better (for which I'm very grateful), but I'm still not sure how much of it sticks and I'm sure it will be a work in progress for him to learn when his opinion isn't wanted or needed. Ivy also had her moments of frustration, but they felt a lot more understandable and I loved her character arc throughout the book.

However the stars of the show must surely be their grandmothers. Loretta and Sherry clearly love their respective grandchildren but have way too much fun making trouble. Loretta in particular steals every scene she's in.

For an enjoyable romp through Napa Valley, grab a glass of wine and this book!

Disclaimer: I receiver a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio

Rich Amooi is a Taleflick Discovery Winner, Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Recipient, Holt Medallion Finalist, and the Amazon Bestselling author of 16 romantic comedies, including It's Not PMS, It's You, Dying to Meet You, There's Something About a Cowboy, and Madam Love, Actually. 

A former radio personality and wedding DJ, Rich now writes romantic comedies full-time in San Diego, California, and is happily married to a kiss monster imported from Spain. Rich believes in public displays of affection, silliness, infinite possibilities, donuts, gratitude, laughter, and happily ever after.

Social Media Links
Author website: www.richamooi.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/author.richamooi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richamooi.author
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RichAmooi
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/richamooi

Giveaway to Win a $25 Amazon Gift Card (Open INT)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

*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.

Blog Tour: Love and Ohana Drama by Melissa Baldwin

Love and Ohana Drama is a romantic comedy that explores the challenges of family dynamics and reminds readers that there is always hope for a second chance. Sometimes the most challenging situations bring the most happiness . . .

Twenty-something Cora Fletcher is a book-loving public relations executive who lives with her overly Zen best friend and attention-loving cat. Newly single and focusing on her exciting career, she feels like she’s in a good place. She's even been invited on an all-expenses-paid Hawaiian vacation! The only catch—it’s a family reunion . . . and her family can be a lot to handle.

Cora vows to not let that get in the way, but even before the family has boarded the plane, the ohana drama begins. As usual, there's the sister-in-law who is bent on causing friction, the self-centered cousins, and the aunt who loves to party a bit too much. Her mother has filled the itinerary with endless activities, and she's even invited Cora’s ex-boyfriend in an attempt to get them back together.

Although she feels overwhelmed, Cora gets a blast from her past that could impact her life forever. This is one welcome reunion she did not expect . . .

Will Cora make it through a week of family togetherness? And will she be able to say aloha to someone she thought was out of her life forever?

Puchase Links
UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07YQDMSRC  
US – https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YQDMSRC

Review

Cora can't stand her family. They are so stressful, she almost backs out of the Hawaii-based family reunion - and when she arrives at the airport, she finds her ex was also invited because her mom still wants him to be part of the family. Can her holiday survive the Fletcher family drama, and when an old crush resurfaces, will Cora take a chance on love?

This was a sweet and sunny trip to Honolulu full of leis and trips to the beach. Yes, it's an idealised view of Hawaii, available only to wealthy tourists, but everyone could do with a luxury escape. Trust me, it will give you a serious case of travel envy. I had a holiday booked to Hawaii last year and I'm still sad it didn't eventuate.

Cora was a delightful relateable character with her love of reading and sense of isolation from her own family. I wished her every happiness and cheered when she enforced her boundaries, though there was a moment when she texted her mom during the flight to Hawaii (illegal but also impossible) that had me rolling my eyes.

I'm such a sucker for family feels. There's a large cast, almost all of them Fletchers, but the book doesn't feel overstuffed because while each are dramatic, they fit into the overall story and don't have an extended character arc of their own. I loved how everyone who went to the reunion ended the story a little better than they were before and I liked them all a little better than I did before. Even Brynn.

This is a happy book and I think it'll make you happy too.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own.

Author Bio

Melissa Baldwin is a planner-obsessed Disney fan who still watches Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital. 

She’s a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of nineteen Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.

When she isn't deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, chauffeuring her daughter, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.

Social Media Links
Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Baldwin/e/B012M1S100?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1579551179&sr=8-1
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/authormelissabaldwin/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mbaldwinauthor/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/mpbaldwinauthor
BookBub - https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-baldwin
Website - http://www.authormelissabaldwin.com

Giveaway to Win a $20 Amazon Gift Card (Open INT)
*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.

Blog Tour: The Saturday Morning Park Run by Jules Wake

This is the story of two women.
One old, one young.
One looking for new adventures. One looking for a purpose.
Both needing a friend.
And this is how, along with two little girls in need of a family, a gorgeous stranger, and a scruffy dog, they bring the whole community together every Saturday morning for love, laughter and a little bit of running…(well, power walking).
Some people come into your life when you need them the most.

Pre-order Links:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Peony-Place-Jules-Wake-ebook/dp/B07K2MGMN9/
https://www.amazon.com/Peony-Place-Jules-Wake-ebook/dp/B07K2MGMN9/

Review

A fabulous story about found family, community, and the joy of little things.

When Claire quite literally runs into fellow high-flier Ashwin, the sparks are immediate and intense. Fast forward one month, and it's a completely different story. Ghosted by Ash, sent home from work with stress, and manipulated into caring for her nieces, a despondent Cliare has no idea that the only place to go is up.

I absolutely loved how this story really focussed on Claire realising her life was uncomfortable and unsustainable, and subsequently learning how to pick battles and set boundaries. Her identity, once bound up in her job, becomes multi-faceted. She honestly finds a new lease on life.

Despite the focus on Claire, the romance with Ash is both believable and charming. He is supportive and caring, but very much an individual with his own character arc, and when he screws up, owns it. In fact, all of the supporting characters - feisty old Hilda, and Claire's nieces Poppy and Ava - get growth and have their own story to tell. The only character I didn't like was their mother and I dare anyone who reads the book to disagree.

The prose is light and fun, the challenges entertaining but not insurmountable. If you want a feel-good found family with romance and dare I say it, running, please give this book a go.

Five stars.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio 

Jules Wake announced at the age of ten that she planned to be a writer. Along the way she was diverted by the glamorous world of PR and worked on many luxury brands and not so luxury brands. This proved fabulous training for writing novels as it provided her with the opportunity to hone her writing and creative skills penning copy on a vast range of subjects from pig farming and watches, sunglasses and skincare through to beer and stationery. 

She writes best-selling warm-hearted contemporary fiction for One More Chapter as Jules Wake and under her pen name Julie Caplin, she writes the Romantic Escapes series.

Between them, the two Js have written fourteen novels, The Saturday Morning Park Run being the latest.

Social Media Links
Twitter @Juleswake
https://www.facebook.com/juleswakewrites/
Instagram: juleswakeauthor

Blog Tour: A Good Demon is Hard to Find by Kate Moseman

Sometimes, a date from hell is just what you need...

When Erin thoughtlessly lays a curse on Mark, her cheating ex-husband, she doesn’t expect a well-dressed Great Earl of Hell to show up in her kitchen to fulfill the curse (and make damn good coffee while he’s at it).

Andromalius specializes in wickedness and revenge. He’s ready, willing, and able to rain down hell on Erin’s ex—but when Mark announces a hasty new marriage, Erin needs more than just revenge.
She needs a date to the wedding.

Fans of Good Omens, Lucifer, and The Good Place will love this wickedly funny paranormal romantic comedy!

Purchase Link http://mybook.to/agooddemon

Review

At last, a rom-com that is actually funny! I have a friend who is often (rightly) upset at books billed as rom-coms with a mere smattering of humour. Happily, this is not one of those. This is an irreverent laugh-out-loud light read about a woman who accidentally summons a demon.

Erin's awful ex-husband wants her to stop going to the church he still attends with his new partner - which, if there was any justice, HE would be politely asked to move on from. Fed up beyond belief, Erin curses him and ends up with a demon in her kitchen. Andromalius (Andy for short) is witty, handsome, and very bored after millenia of doing pretty much nothing. A spot of light revenge seems like just the thing.

I definitely enjoyed reading this book and seeing Erin get back on her feet. There was a ton of banter and some nice female friendship. I do however feel it wrapped up very quickly once feelings were realised which came off as almost abrupt. While I appreciate the lack of angst, there were a few problems that were mentioned, glossed over, and quickly forgotten in favour of a happy ending, things that might be a teeny bit important to that ending, like 'gender', and 'immortality'.

Yeah.

There was a fun subplot between two of the supporting characters that is probably leading to another book. I'm keen to read it, but would like that one to be a bit longer and answer a few of those questions that were left hanging, instead of rushing to the end.

Four stars

I received a copy of this book from Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own

Author Bio
Kate Moseman is a writer, photographer, and recipe developer who lives in Florida with her family and enjoys going to theme parks as frequently as possible.
 
Social Media Links
https://www.katemoseman.com
https://www.facebook.com/katemosemanauthor/
https://twitter.com/KateMoseman
https://www.instagram.com/katemoseman/
https://www.pinterest.com/katemosemanauthor/

Blog Tour: The Gin Lover's Guide to Dating by Nina Kaye (with giveaway!)

When life gives you lemons... add a splash of ginTwo parts sparkling comedy. One dose of romantic tension. Mix well with a second chance, a splash of mystery, and garnish with a twist of fate...

When Liv's high-flying career goes off the rails, she finds herself working at a glitzy new gin bar to pay the bills. Yes, she's got a knack for reading the customers, she's finally got time to have some fun, and she might have just found some real friends - but it's just until she gets her life back on track, right?

But between humiliating encounters with her old workmates, one very hot bartender, and a lot of soul searching to do, Liv's life is even more muddled than a Blackberry Bramble...

Can Liv face up to her past, seize her future, and mix her own recipe for happiness?

A hilarious, feel-good romantic comedy for fans of Mhairi McFarlane and Sophie Ranald

Review

This light-hearted rom-com is just begging to be made into a movie. It hits all of the classic beats - an unceremonious tumble from grace, a new life situation that might just be better than the first, personal growth with the aid of friends, old and new, and more than a hint of romance.

Surprisingly, it doesn't stop there. While Liv's initial misfortunes aren't her fault, she makes a few decisions later that you know are totally going to come back to bite her. It had me yelling at my screen in the way that is usually reserved for splitting up in horror movies. Even so, there are a few twists and turns that keep you (or at least me) guessing until the very end. I don't want to spoil anything, but I can tell you that not only is there a happy ending, all of Liv's decisions have realistic consequences and the plot threads are wrapped up in a satisfying manner.

The gin thread is also nicely woven in - from Liv's new job to her start-up blog, the little drips of it here and there have me just dying for a drink. For a fizzy little rom-com with a twist or two, pick up this book - best paired with your drink of choice.

Four stars

Now available at Amazon (US); Amazon (CA), Amazon (UK), or anywhere else you get your ebooks

Giveaway