Susan's Review of A Crime of Fashion by Nancy Robards Thompson

When a murder mystery-themed fashion show is struck by a real murder, there are enough suspects to line the runway.

Bridal boutique owner and cozy mystery writer Maddie Bell and her daughter, Jenna, are hard at work planning Hemlock, North Carolina’s, annual 4th of July charity fashion show. When the show’s hometown star, bestselling mystery author Kellen Corsi, turns up dead, the mother-daughter pair find themselves playing detective...again.

Kellen’s death, which has been staged to mimic a murder from the book that launched her career, leaves the whole town reeling. The violence feels shockingly personal—Kellen was a founding member of the local writing group, Hemlock Homicide Heroines, before success swept her away to the big city.

Soon, it becomes clear not everyone was thrilled with Kellen’s success. As suspects multiply faster than designer knockoffs, Maddie and Jenna are determined to figure out who was resentful enough to kill over it.

Do you like cozy mysteries? I do! I am so glad that one of my favorite authors-Nancy Robards Thompson is writing cozies!

I am loving Nancy Robards Thompson’s Wedding Bell Mysteries! A Crime of Fashion is the second book in the series. The fast-paced novel features bridal boutique owner and mystery writer Maddie Bell and her event planner daughter Jenna. I loved the fun Mother-Daughter vibe in the novel, the hint of romance between Maddie and Jackson and the small town setting in Hemlock, North Carolina.

Maddie and her Jenna are co-chairing a charity event with a murder mystery theme. Bestselling author Kellan Corsi is the celebrity guest star in this year’s Successful You Fashion Showcase. Before she became a best-selling author, Kellan was a member of Maddie’s writers group; the Hemlock Homicide Heroines (HHH). Loved that the fashion show gave the group of writers a chance to reconnect. Kellan is the most successful member of the group. Her first book was a best seller and is being made into a movie—and several members of the HHH are extremely jealous of her success. So, is it really a big surprise when Kellan is murdered during cocktail hour?

The characters is the novel are fabulous! I loved Olivia—she was quite the diva and my prime suspect during the murder investigation! Olivia accused Kellan of plagiarism and that caused a lot of hard feelings in the group. The relationship between MJ and Olivia was interesting. Loved the conversations between MJ and the HHH members. MJ is a mother hen and was always the first to defend Olivia. The small town setting was an important in the story line as most of the characters were connected.

The clever plotting in A Crime of Fashion kept me guessing until the last page! I loved figuring out the clues and learning more about Kellan and the HHH members. Loved that this book focused a bit more on Maddie’s sleuthing abilities and her feelings toward Jackson. Maddie was determined to figure out the identity of the killer! I could imagine the stylish Maddie hopping through a window to snoop through a suspect’s office without wrinkling or smudging her outfit! The scenes when Maddie and Jenna visited Kellan’s hotel room at night was perfectly written with just the right amount of suspense. Maddie and Jenna’s relationship is tested little bit when Maddie tells Jenna about her date with Jackson. Jenna’s reaction is spot on and significant to the romantic angle of the story.

In an effort to keep my review spoiler free—I am not going to reveal the name of Kellan’s killer. I enjoyed how the story unfolded and the great plot twists and turns held my interest. Maddie and Jackson’s romance added to the storyline –it was relatable and very sweet—in keeping with the cozy mystery genre. It's back to watching more Hallmark mystery shows for me as I was not able to figure out the identity of Kellan’s killer!!

If you are looking for a fabulous, fashionable whodunit with a great mother-daughter detective team, two adorable corgis and a group of envious writers—grab a copy of A Crime of Fashion! I can’t wait for the next book in the Wedding bells series—The Taming of the Shoe which will be available in 2021!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased on Amazon

Interview: A CRIME OF FASHION – Book Two in The Wedding Bell Mysteries

Susan: This is such a great series! What inspired you to write cozy mysteries?

Nancy: Thank you, Susan! I’m having such fun with The Wedding Bell Mysteries series. I’ve written more than forty romance and women’s fiction novels, but a while back I found myself drawn into The Hannah Swensen Mysteries (written by Joanne Fluke) on the Hallmark Movies and Mysteries channel. I couldn’t get enough of Hannah and her town of Lake Eden, Minnesota. I loved the setting, the quirky characters, and the fact that the plots kept me guessing. As any reader would do, I picked up the books and quickly devoured all twenty-five in the series. What does a writer do when she’s reached the end of her favorite series? You got it! She plots her own. I liken The Wedding Bell Mysteries to Gilmore Girls meets Murder She Wrote. Gilmore Girls because the heroines, Maddie Bell and Jenna Bell are mother and daughter. Murder She Wrote because Maddie writes cozy mysteries when she’s not running her bridal shop, Blissful Beginnings Bridal Boutique.

Susan:What are your favorite elements in a cozy mystery? What do you like to include in your books?
Nancy: I love puzzles and brainteasers, so the “who-done-it” element of a cozy mystery really appeals to me. I also love small town dynamics that create a sense of community, and a cast of lovable and quirky characters that start to feel like friends and family. Those elements draw me into the cozy series I enjoy reading, and it’s only natural that I include them in my own.

Susan: Love the fun Mother- Daughter relationship between Maddie and Jenna. Loved the scene when they were in Kellan’s hotel room. Did you have a favorite Maddie -Jenna scene In this book?

Nancy: Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed that scene. It was fun to write. I liked that one, and I also enjoyed Maddie and Jackson’s “date,” and the scene at the bee farm.

Susan: A Crime of Fashion focused on Maddie’s writing group. Do you belong to an author critique group?

Nancy: I do and they are life savers! They are some of my very best friends. We “meet” via the magic of technology because we live all over the country. One of my best writing buddies lives in the UK. I’ve known most of these women for a long time. There’s a tremendous amount of trust that goes into sharing your pre-published work with anyone. Not just for the reasons at the center of the A CRIME OF FASHION plot (I won’t say too much because I don’t want to give anything away), but it’s also important that critique partners share the same sensibilities. Writing is so subjective that if a person doesn’t understand where you’re going with a story, they could do more harm than good and at the very least, it’s a waste of time for both of you. But a critique at it’s best is when writers are helping each other make their stories stronger.

Susan: I loved that Maddie’s friendship with Jackson has blossomed into a romance. Was that fun to write/explore?

Nancy: It’s a lot of fun! There are some interesting twist and turns ahead as I hinted in at the end of A CRIME OF FASHION. The next book in the series, THE TAMING OF THE SHOE, will be out next year. That story will explore their relationship even more.

Susan: I know how much you love corgis. Are there any in this series?
Nancy: Every chance I get, I put a corgi -- or two -- in my books! This one is no exception. Maddie has two corgis – a girl names Agatha Christie and a boy named Sherlock Homes. Aggie and Homie, respectively. To me, just as a home isn’t a home without a corgi, a story feels like it’s missing some warmth without one…or several.

Susan: How can readers reach you?

Nancy: Thanks so much for having me on the blog today! I love to hear from readers! They can contact me and sign up for my newsletter HERE!

They can reach me on Facebook HERE and HERE.
I’m on Instagram and Twitter.

Susan"s Review of Slay Bells Ring By Nancy Robarts Thompson

It’s one thing to write a mystery, but when your daughter is the suspect — you solve it.

Wedding planner Jenna Bell doesn’t panic when the groom is a no-show to the ceremony – even though he is her former high school sweetheart and this wedding is the small town’s event of the year. However, when he turns up dead and she is falsely accused… well, yeah, now it’s the time to panic.
Jenna’s mother, Maddie, puts her cozy mystery writing skills to use to try to clear her daughter’s name, stepping on by-the-book Chief of Police Jackson Bradley’s toes in the process. No matter how enticing he finds her, he doesn’t want this writer-turned-amateur-sleuth interfering with his murder investigation.
With nearly all of Hemlock, North Carolina, picking sides and the town’s own Gossip Brigade churning out the rumors, Maddie discovers the mystery isn’t very cozy when it hits this close to home.



<

Slay Bells Ring is the first book in Nancy Robarts Thompson’s new cozy mystery series. The novel features Maddie Bell and her daughter Jenna. The close relationship between Maddie and Jenna drew me into this fast- paced mystery which is set in Hemlock, North Carolina.

Jenna Bell has returned home to start an event planning business. She shares an office with her Mom who runs a bridal shop. Loved that Maddie wrote cozy mysteries and had a crush on the town’s new police chief. Loved the mother- daughter conversations which showed how much they cared for each other. The author’s dialogue between Maddie and Jenna is spot on; at times their conversations are laugh out loud funny, caring and thoughtful in nature—all of the elements of a real mother daughter relationship.

Slay Bells Rings has all of the elements of a novel that I adore. It is set in a small town, filled with fun characters (think Gossip brigade!), entertaining dialogue, friendship, love. Slay Bells Ring has a bridezilla, a reluctant groom, two corgis, a missing Rolex and a murder!I have been a fan of Nancy Robarts Thompson books for several years. I love the characters and the small town settings in her novels. Am so glad she decided to write a cozy mystery and can’t wait to see if Maddie and Chief Bradley go out on a date, if Jenna and Ian have a friends to lovers relationship, and to learn more about Val and Alicia.

To keep my review spoiler free, I am not going to reveal who was murdered or whodunit. I loved how they story played out. Each detail, each fact added to the big reveal. Nancy Robards Thompson does a fabulous job balancing the intrigue and keeps the reader in suspense. I will admit that I did not figure out the identity the killer.

If you are looking for a fun, enjoyable read filled with fabulous characters-pick up Slay Bells Ring!

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book Purchased on Amazon

Susan's Review of A Fortunate Arrangement by Nancy Robards Thompson

Felicity Schafer throws her boss, Austin Fortune, a curveball when she hands in her resignation. She’s worked hard to earn her MBA and wants to move into a new role. She’s been crushing on Austin for years and feels it’s time to move on with her life professionally and personally.

Austin is a workaholic who depends on Felicity for everything from his morning coffee to ordering his dinner. Austin has immersed himself in his job at Fortune Investments since his bitter divorce and considers Felicity as a friend.

The chemistry between the two characters sizzled from the first page of the novel. Loved their conversations and Austin’s reaction to Felicity leaving the firm. I was so happy that Felicity’s friend Maia gave her a makeover- haircut and highlights and updated makeup palette. The makeover gave Felicity confidence and Austin took a step back and noticed the changes. She agrees to go out on a date with a friend of Maia’s and Austin is forced to recognize that he has feelings for Felicity.

Nancy Robards Thompson has written another fabulous addition to The Fortunes series- the characters and their office romance are relatable. The author does a great job with the perception piece of the office romance and balances the characters feelings and emotions perfectly. After his first marriage, Austin does not believe in love. Loved reading how his feelings toward Felicity changed. I adored the secondary characters of Maia (fairy godmother # 1) and Savannah (fairy godmother #2). Loved the novel’s conclusion and the epilogue made me cry!

If you like a story with a bit of Cinderella magic, a fairy godmother or two, a swoon worthy dance at a ball, you will love this book. I highly recommend A Fortune Arrangement and can’t wait for the author’s next book.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily reviewing it.

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Susan's Review of Maddie Fortune's Perfect Man by Nancy Robarts Thompson

THERE'S TROUBLE AFOOT AMONG THE HOUSTON FORTUNES..
Maddie Fortunado, heir apparent to her father's real estate business, is stunned to learn that she'll have to fight for the job she'd assumed was hers! Even worse? Her rival is none other than Zach McCarter, her secret crush. Only a makeover can transform "Maddie" into "Madeleine," who can compete against her charismatic coworker. But when Zach meets Maddie 2.0, business is suddenly the last thing on either of their minds

Nancy Robards Thompson has added an unique twist to the secret crush romance in her new novel Maddie Fortune’s Perfect Man. I loved the relatable characters, the rivalry between the two main characters and the strong family bonds in this story.

Maddie Fortune has spent her days, evenings and weekends working at her family’s business, Fortunato Real Estate. She is shocked when her father makes her compete for the position she assumed was hers all along. Maddie’s competitor for the head of Fortunato Real Estate is Zach McCarter—her long term crush.

I loved that Maddie took the challenge seriously but, took a step back and realized that by devoting her herself to work she was missing out on life. Ms. Thompson’s smart dialogue between Maddie and her sister Schuyler drew me into the story. In typical sister fashion, Schuyler is able to draw Maddie out of her work persona and get her sister to admit that she’s interested in Zach. Schuyler decides Maddie needs a total make over. Loved the chapter when the sisters go shopping. Maddie comes home with a new hairstyle, designer clothes and a makeover! The new looks give Maddie the confidence that she needs to pursue her work and personal goals.

Zach McCarter is a complex character. His story unfolded bit by bit as the two week contest neared its deadline. Zach is completive by nature and he will go to any length to convince buyer to list with him. Adored that he rented a truck, wore jeans and a Stetson hat to land a ranch listing and that Maddie caught him in his “costume.”

The competition between hard working Maddie and smooth talking Zach showcases Ms. Thompson’s descriptive writing style and her fabulous dialogue. The author’s use of the sister vibe throughout the story endears Maddie (and Schuyler) to the reader Loved that the author introduced the tell me one more thing about you theme early in the story. This enabled Maddie and Zach to share and confide in each other. As the competition reaches the finish line, how will Zach react when Maddie asks him one more thing?

Looking forward to Ms Thompson’s next novel—love her characters and their journeys !

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

ARC provided by the author

Susan's Review of The Cowboy Who Got Away by Nancy Robards Thompson -Celebration, TX series

Hunky bull rider Jude Campbell seems to have the world by the proverbial horns. But when the world champion returns to Celebration for his high school reunion, he's confronted by the ghosts he'd worked so hard to forget. Not to mention the high school love who got away... Bridezilla wrangler Juliette Lowell is as gorgeous and genuine as she was as Jude's homecoming queen. And the spark between them burns as bright as ever. But Jules still smarts from Jude's betrayal years before. And as successful as he seems, Jude's struggling with the prospect of hanging up his spurs. But with his queen, Juliette, by his side, maybe this homecoming will take once and for all

Every inch of him needed her. Even if he hadn't been conscious of it before, he wanted to hold her like this, feel her just like this, from the moment he saw her standing there talking to herself in the middle of Lucy's barn. The desire had grown as they'd sat in the Redbird and reminisced and laughed like old friends and now it was so great it had rendered him half out of his mind.

Even so, he hadn't planned on seducing her--or has she seduced him? That was the thing about them. They tended to spontaneously combust when they were around each other. Sometimes it was difficult to discern where one of them stopped and the other began.

How had they gone so long without each other?

High school reunions bring up lots of memories and the 10-year reunion is often considered a milestone; as people are conscious of their marital, career and financial status. The Cowboy Who Got Away explores these themes as Juliette Lowell and Jude Campbell are given a second chance at love when Jude arrives in Celebration just in time for their 10th reunion.

Juliette has appeared in several of Nancy Robards Thompson’s Celebration books and I was thrilled to read her story. As a popular wedding consultant, she creates magical weddings for her clients. However, Juliette has dealt with one too many demanding bridezilla and is growing tired of travelling that her job entails. Jude Campbell overhears Juliette talking to herself in her office at the Campbell Wedding Barn after a client (bridezilla!!) meeting and asks about the situation. Juliette is surprised to see her high school boyfriend after ten years. Jude has left the bull riding circuit because he has suffered a concussion; he’s spending time at home and looking to rekindle his relationship with Juliette.

Nancy Robards Thompson perfectly balances the present attraction between Jude and Juliette with the couple’s need to sort through their past break up. As a reader, I could relate to Juliette. Her relationship with Jude meant everything to her and it took her a long time to get over him. Can she trust him? The author is spot on with the emotional poignant conversations between the couple. Jude opens up to Juliette about his relationship with his father, self-doubts and current career situation. Will he choose love or his career?

Several contemporary themes are woven in this tender, sexy story. Jude was very open about the concussions that he suffered while pursuing the bull riding championship. The concussion protocol is something all athletes should adhere to. Ms. Thompson did a fantastic job bringing this element into the storyline. Loved that Jude and Juliette danced to Blake Shelton’s Mine Would Be You at the reunion. The dance scene was superbly written and each one of the author’s words described the love that Jude and Juliette shared as well as the heartache they felt. Jude over hears that Juliette has been offered a job based in London; this leads to a huge misunderstanding between them. Can Jude and Juliette work through this situation?

I loved the conclusion of the novel—it’s full of love, understanding and a teensy piece of irony which I loved! And it works perfectly for this couple!

Reviewed By Susan Gorman

Book provided by the author.

National bestselling author Nancy Robards Thompson lives and writes in Florida, but her imagination transports her all over the world. She’s worked a myriad of jobs including television show stand-in; production and extras casting for movies; and several mind-numbing jobs in the fashion industry and public relations. She earned a degree in journalism only to realize reporting “just the facts” bored her silly. Much more content to report to her muse, Nancy has found Nirvana doing what she loves most – writing contemporary and historical romance and women’s fiction full-time. After hanging up her press pass, this two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart struck gold in July 2002 when she won the award. Since then, she’s gone on to sell more than 30 books, which critics have deemed, “…funny, smart and observant.”

A Bride, A Barn, and A Baby by Nancy Robards Thompson

And the prince wore spurs

A bourbon-tinged evening turns into a night of spur-jangling passion. And wrapped in the arms of hunky cowboy Zane Phillips, Lucy Campbell feels like her dreams have come true all at once! But she knows Zane needs a chance to let their move from friends to lovers sink in. That is, until reality knocks...and Lucy discovers she's pregnant.

This wasn't how Zane imagined daddyhood would happen. And with pretty Lucy...his best friend's little sister! He wants to do right by her and the baby, but Lucy wants the fairy tale, not a marriage of obligation. And while this simple cowboy isn't sure he can measure up as her Prince Charming, the real magic is that he's had her heart all along...

REVIEW

A Bride, A Barn and A Baby by Nancy Robards Thompson is a heartfelt addition to the Celebration, Texas series. The novel features Lucy Campbell and Zane Phillips and explores the true meaning of the word love. The couple were featured in Ms. Thompson’s The Cowboy’s Runaway Bride and I have been patiently waiting for their story!

Wedding planner Lucy Campbell has had a crush on cowboy Zane Campbell for years. Zane is aware of Lucy’s feelings but doesn’t return them- he sees Lucy as a friend. Grieving for his mother, Zane is going through her belongings when Lucy shows up unannounced with dinner and movies. The couple has one too many bourbon- on- the- rocks leading to an unexpected passion- filled evening. The next day Zane gives Lucy the ‘Let’s stay friends” reason why they can’t pursue a relationship.

Six weeks later, Lucy finds out the she is pregnant. Nancy Thompson’s compassionate voice shines during this highly emotional chapter. Lucy wants the fairy tale romance and happily ever after with Zane but, knows in her heart that it not going to happen. Lucy tells Zane that they are going to be parents shortly before he leaves on an important job interview in Florida. Zane returns and announces to Lucy that he’s decided that they are getting married. Lucy understands that it’s a proposal based on obligation, not love, and turns him down.

The conversations between Lucy and Zane are emotional and honest. The author weaves in Zane’s relationship with both of his parents enabling the reader to understand Zane’s perspective and the depth of his grief. Ms. Thompson delicately balances Lucy’s love for Zane and her desire not to trap him into marriage throughout the story.

I loved that Zane listened to Lucy and begins to care for her. One of my favorite scenes in the book is when Zane buys paint for the baby’s nursery.

After the kiss, Zane had presented her with two gallons of paint—not just any paint, but the perfect shade of yellow for their baby’s nursery. In some ways, this gesture made her even more inclined to entertain the thought of marrying him. It made her really ponder—what exactly was the meaning of love? How was the best way to declare love? Anyone could say those three little words. He could’ve very well told her exactly what she wanted to hear and she would’ve fallen for it. Because she had already fallen for him.

Zane and Lucy explore the meaning of love in this emotional opposites attract romance. Zane is in the process of accepting the loss of his mother, dealing with the sudden appearance of his father and becoming a parent. Zane communicates his love through actions, not words while Lucy expresses her feelings out loud and is all about the romance. The novel’s conclusion has several surprises for the couple and made me cry!

GREAT ENDING NRT!

A Bride, A Barn, and A Baby is a fabulous small town romance infused with family, friends and love. If you enjoy novels by Emily March, Debbie Mason and Donna Alward—you will love is new novel by Nancy Robards Thompson

Reviewed by Susan Gorman
ARC provided by Author

5 Stars!

★★★★★

Susan's Review of Fortune's Surprise Engagement

MY BIG FAKE BOYFRIEND

Olivia Fortune Robinson has done some crazy things in her life, but this has to be one of the craziest. She has just propositioned sexy Alejandro Mendoza to be her pretend boyfriend for a week. What's even crazier? He said yes!

They're doing it all for Sophie—or so they think. Liv's cynical view of marriage accidentally convinced her little sister to call off her own wedding, and Liv has to fix things and quick. What better way than to "fall in love" herself? Tall, dark and alpha, Alejandro doesn't seem to mind having Liv on his arm—or in his bed. But when the two commitment-phobes suddenly become faux fiancés, Liv's traitorous heart starts to fall for real… Is Alejandro's far behind?

Susan's Review

What's the worst thing that could happen at a bachelorette party?

A teary bride- to-be running away from her party and calling off her wedding?

A tipsy bridesmaid who doesn’t believe in love propositioning her sisters’ brother-in-law?



Nancy Robards Thompson’s Fortune’s Surprise Engagement is wonderful story of two career focused people who have no time or desire for romance. Or do they?

Olivia Fortune Robinson has organized a fabulous weekend bachelorette party for her sister Sophie and her future sister-in-law Dana at the plush Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas. She has thought of everything—dinner at the hotel’s elegant dining room, massages and poolside mimosas—except she forgot to keep her opinions of love and marriage to herself. A tipsy Olivia gives a candid answer to why love and marriage aren’t for her. Olivia’s response upsets Sophie so much that she leaves the party in tears.

Alejandro Mendoza’s brothers have married into the Fortune Robinson family. He is in the process of purchasing a vineyard near Austin and is staying at the Driskill. Alejandro watches Sophie and her sisters Zoe and Rachel leave the bar. He decides to keep Olivia company at her table. I loved the instant connection between the couple. In between drinks, Olivia fantasizes about a fling with handsome, sexy Alejandro; while Alejandro is surprised to find himself flirting with the attractive Olivia. They share a passionate kiss and Alejandro returns the tipsy Olivia to her hotel room.

Sophie’s reaction to Olivia’s feelings about true love and the resulting chain of events make for a fast-paced entertaining read. The conversations between Zoe, Rachel, Sophie and Olivia are emotional, honest and funny. Enjoyed how the sisters banded together to help Olivia convince Sophie that she believed in love. The scenes where a desperate Olivia propositions Alejandro to be her pretend boyfriend for the week was hilarious and superbly written! I loved this couple and their connection—it worked for me! Loved Alejandro's grand gesture at the rehearsal dinner and how it took Olivia by surprise!

The attraction between Alejandro and Olivia is real—will their relationship fizzle out after the brides say I do?

Reviewed by Susan Gorman
Book provided by Nancy Robards Thompson
Photo of Celeste taken by Susan Gorman
Engaged graphic by G.Cochrane

About the Author

Award winning author Nancy Robards Thompson lives and writes in Florida, but her imagination transports her all over the world. She’s worked a myriad of jobs including television show stand-in; production and extras casting for movies; and several mind-numbing jobs in the fashion industry and public relations. She earned a degree in journalism only to realize reporting “just the facts” bored her silly. Much more content to report to her muse, Nancy has found Nirvana doing what she loves most – writing contemporary and historical womens fiction full-time. After hanging up her press pass, this two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s Golden Heart struck gold in July 2002 when she won the award. Since then, she’s gone on to sell 30 books, which critics have deemed, “…funny, smart and observant.”

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads

The Cowboy’s Runaway Bride by Nancy Robards Thompson

Excerpt:

With one last forward thrust, Chelsea tumbled inside. As she twisted to break her fall, the bathroom light flicked on. Chelsea screamed as she registered the huge man hulking in the threshold. 

Based on the racket he’d heard Ethan Campbell thought he might have cornered a couple of raccoons that had fallen down the chimney or gotten into Juliette Lowell’s house through an open window. The last thing he expected was to catch a tall, gorgeous blond breaking and entering.

Review:

The Cowboy’s Runaway Bride by Nancy Robards Thompson is a fast-paced, opposites attract romance set in the small town of Celebration, Texas. I love the Celebration series—the small town atmosphere, sense of community and unique characters appeal to me.

Lady Chelsea Ashford Alden has been betrayed by her boyfriend. He sold a very private tape of the couple and the ensuing scandal has forced her to leave Great Britain. Chelsea decides to visit her friend Juliette Lowell in Celebration, Texas until the scandal dies down. Ethan Campbell has put romance on the back burner and has focused on his ranch and horse breeding program since the death of his parents and his divorce. I emphasized with Chelsea’s predicament, felt compassion for Ethan’s decisions and enjoyed the instant attraction between the couple!

Ms. Thompson does a fabulous job with the dialogue in this novel. She is spot on with the British slang and verbiage that Chelsea uses in conversation. The conversations between Chelsea and Ethan are honest and at times very poignant. Loved how the author weaved the contemporary trends of the media’s obsession with royalty, cellphones, Facebook photo postings and the barn theme wedding trends into the storyline. These details added authenticity to the story. 

The conclusion to Ethan and Chelsea’s story is well paced and moving. I loved that when Chelsea’s big secret is revealed, the author stays true to her characters. That important choice made for a fabulous romantic read.

Reviewed by: Susan Gorman

ARC, Graphic images and video provide by the Author 

Photo of Celeste taken by Susan Gorman

Scandalous Billionaires - Book Blitz

Scandalous Billionaires
Eve Gaddy, Katherine Garbera, Kathleen O’Brien, Mimi Wells, Nancy Robards Thompson
Publication date: May 3rd 2016
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Escape to Italy’s fabled Amalfi Coast with five USA Today Bestselling and award-winning authors for a limited time at a special price – only $0.99!
The exclusive Isola del Sole is a billionaires’ playground. Intrigue, adrenaline, and deception rule the day for the wealthy De Luca brothers and their closest friends—but only the right women can ignite their passions during the hot Amalfi nights…

The Billionaire’s Temptation
Rocco De Luca lives and loves in the fast lane. Filling in for his older brother for a few weeks sounds… well, boring. Until he meets Steffi Harlan, who’s in charge of keeping the playboy out of trouble. Except Steffi isn’t immune to Rocco’s charms.
They burn up the nights they spend together… But can they both survive love in the fast lane?  

The Billionaire’s Deception
Shel Myerson, wildly successful TV mogul, has no privacy thanks to a recent and ugly public breakup. What he doesn’t expect is to be mistaken as an employee by Janine Pike, the one person in Europe who also doesn’t have any idea who he is.
Shel and Janine discover their chemistry is combustible–but will their budding relationship survive the heat once the press catches on? 

The Billionaire’s Betrayal
Matteo De Luca’s single focus is rebuilding his hotel empire, and he’s close to achieving his goal, but there’s a sexy distraction standing in his way. Helena Von Lienz knows it’s finally time to let go. But what she finds are some unexpected truths about her late hubby, and a strong sensual shared desire with Matteo.
Will mixing business with pleasure be the end, or just the beginning, for Matteo and Helena?

The Billionaire’s Secret
When Sophie Smith’s dearest friend asks her to be her stand in at an Amalfi resort, Sophie won’t let her down. Turns out, she get used to this life, especially handsome gardener Declan Muldoon who’s more thrilling than any of the billionaires around.
But Sophie’s not the only one pretending. Declan is actually the black sheep of a very wealthy family, a man in need of an heiress. An heiress exactly like who Sophie is pretending to be…

The Billionaire’s Charade
Summer St. Croix hates weddings. But when she meets hot-as-sin Luke Vanetti, he promises to give her a reason to like them. It’s all sexy fun and games until Summer realizes that Luke is none other than her new boss. And her first assignment is posing as his fiance.
Playing the happy couple is hard enough during the day, but the nights might turn the charade into more than just a job for both of them.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / GooglePlay

Grab your copy for only 99 cents!

—

GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Hosted by:

Click the title to read an excerpt from each story!

The Billionaire’s Temptation by Katherine Garbera

The Billionaire’s Deception by Mimi Wells

The Billionaire’s Betrayal by Nancy Robards Thompson

The Billionaire’s Secret by Kathleen O’Brien

The Billionaire’s Charade by Eve Gaddy

Celebration Christmas by Nancy Robards Thompson

A Celebration Christmas by Nancy Robards Thompson is a wonderful holiday read! The book has great characters, romance and a unique message about the gift of love.

Cullen Dunlevy had never begged for anything in his adult life, but right now he was desperate."I'll pay you triple your salary if you will stay for two more hours, Angie," he said. "And you don't need to clean up after the kids."

"Dr. Dunlevy, there isn't enough money in the world to make me stay." Unmoved, the housekeeper brushed past him. She paused at the top of the stairs. "Call me when you find a home for them."

A home for them? They're kids, not stray animals.

Cullen glanced down at ten-year old Megan Thomas. All the color drained from her already pale cheeks. Then his gaze founds it's way back to the hall-bath toilet, which was overflowing with some kind of expanding blue goop that seemed to be growing exponentially. The prank had been the final straw, the reason for Angie's noon phone call to Cullen at the hospital , informing him that he had exactly one hour to get home because she was fed up and leaving.

Lily Palmer arrives at Cullen Dunlevy's home as Angie, his former housekeeper is running out the front door. Angie advises Lily to "Run while you can. Run and save yourself." Lily is a second grade teacher who needs a part time job during the holiday school break. As Cullen interviews Lily for the nanny position, she takes in her surroundings. The home is designer perfect, stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops, large couch and huge flat screen TV. Lily notices that there are no holiday decorations and Cullen has not bought a Christmas tree. Although the Dunlevy house appears to be perfect at first glance, it's missing the spirit of Christmas.

Nancy Robards Thompson creates a fabulous holiday story. The four Thomas children are orphans; their parents were killed in a car accident and they have no relatives. Cullen has agreed to take them for the month of December while his attorney searches for a home for them. Cullen is dedicated doctor--- he's all business -- a Grinch--until Lily takes charge of his household. Lily gets the children in the holiday spirit, they bake cookies, decorate and buy a tree. 

Loved how the author wove in Lily's tradition of baking stollen bread with her grandmother to the story. To keep the children busy,  Lily taught them how to bake cookies and stollen bread. In the true spirit of Christmas, the children decided to bake stollen, sell it at the holiday market and donate the profits to a children's charity.

The romance between Lily and Cullen hits a few roadblocks as they come to terms with their feelings while caring for four active children. Well meaning friends, an ex wife and an ex fiancé  all play a part in this charming holiday adventure. Out of the blue, Cullen and Lily are gifted tickets to the annual Jingle Bell Ball. Will Cullen remember his date with Lily? Does Lily have a chance with Cullen? Read A Celebration Christmas to see if some Christmas magic occurs at the holiday dance! 

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Copy of the book provided by the author.

His Texas Christmas Bride ~~ Nancy Robards Thompson

I love reading  Nancy Robards Thompson's holiday stories. His Texas Christmas Bride is a fast paced story which takes place in the small town of Celebration, Texas. The novel has multi - faceted characters, a unique storyline and a meaningful holiday message. 

Becca Flannigan is waiting in the Emergency Room at Celebration Memorial Hospital to see a doctor. She is three months pregnant and is suffering from food poisoning. Becca is surprised that the attending physician is Dr. Nick Ciotti whom she hasn't seen in about three months.  She remembers many details about the handsome doctor including his two unusual tattoos. Nick reads Becca's chart and quickly figures out that Becca's baby might be their baby.

"It's going  to be okay," he said. "Let's just take this one step at a time. I promise I will do everything in my power to make sure you don't have to worry about anything."

His words were soothing, and she stayed in his arms until she had regained her composure. She  pulled back a little to wipe her eyes, but first she looked up at him. His gaze snared hers, and then he was looking at her mouth , and she was leaning into him.

When he took her chin in his hand and drew her closer, she felt his warm, mint-scented breath so near that every feeling---every dream and desire she'd had since the first moment she'd set eyes on him that night at the hospital ---played out before her eyes. Since then, since learning she was pregnant , since finding him again, one of the things she tried not to think about was the way his arms would feel around her, protective and strong. This way his lips would taste.... That taste was so uniquely Nick.

Then his kissed her.

Love the chemistry between the hero and heroine in novel. Becca is warm, friendly, open and honest. She owns her own home and has a corgi. (Yes, a corgi!) Becca tells Nick that she won't force him to be a part of his childs life. This simple statement sets the tone for the novel. Nick is a workaholic and his commitment to his  job cost him his first marriage. Nick finds it difficult to talk about his feelings and is not close to his family. I liked that the couple were different and didn't agree on everything. Nick supported Becca when she told her family about the pregnancy. He was there for her. Becca encourages Nick to reconnect with his father. She believes talking with his father with help Nick let go of his past. 

The secondary characters complement the main characters and add to the story's authenticity. Loved Becca and Nick's date at Kate's house for the Sunday football game and the Flannigan family Thanksgiving dinner.The author did a fabulous job with the girlfriend chat while the men were watching the game. The overwhelming family dinner conversation was spot on down to the last detail with Becca's mother assuring everyone that Nick and Becca would be married very, very soon.

The author incorporates several fall and winter local traditions in the novel. Nick asks Becca to show him something which is typical of Celebration, Texas. Becca's choice of the Friday night football game surprises Nick. It's the perfect choice as it it allows him to experience first hand a small town at its best. He's able to watch the football game, eat hamburgers and french fries and meet Becca's family and friends on his own terms.  The author uses symbolism in the scenes where the couple attends the town's annual tree lighting ceremony and a wedding as a couple. 

 Nancy Robards Thompson weaves a heartwarming story which deals with forgiveness and acceptance on several levels. There  were several unexpected twists in the storyline and the novel held my interest. Loved the ending-- it was perfectly written for this couple.  Grab a cup of tea and spend an afternoon with His Texas Christmas Bride! It's the perfect novel to read during the holiday season.

Reviewed By: Susan Gorman

Book provided by Nancy Robards Thompson

Photo: Susan Gorman

The Billionaire's Betrayal -- Amalfi Night Billionaires Book 3--NancyRobards Thompson

Smooth. He was very smooth.

The man was used to getting what he wanted, but he was smart, cloaking his iron fist in a soft velvet glove. He was promising no business talk, but really, what else would he want?

As Lena lifted the glass to her lips and sipped the effervescent nectar, the vision of her naked body tangled with Matteo's danced through her mind, nearly taking her breath away and making her choke on the champagne. For a split second she fought the urge to run because he wasn't interested in her. He wanted the chance to subversively work on her and potentially wear her down to sell back her shares.

Since she planned to hold on to her shares of dei Fiori Enterprises, she needed to find out how Matteo De Luca operated..

In business, that was.

Lena Von Lienz has returned to Venice to attend the opening of an art gallery and to get answers to questions regarding the details of her husband's death. Anton Von Lienz, his friend Enzo De Luca and their female companions were killed in a car crash. Lena loved her husband and is haunted by the thoughts that he might have been unfaithful to her. Enzo's son, Matteo De Luca  and Lena shared a steamy kiss at the funeral services eighteen months ago. Matteo has spent the past year rebuilding his familys business and thinking about that passionate kiss. 

The Billionaire's Betrayal is the third book in the Amalfi Night Billionaires series and can be read as a stand alone.  The story has complex characters, a lush and romantic setting and provides a peek into the world  of the rich and famous. Matteo has been attracted to Lena for years. He didn't act on his feelings  because she was married to his father's friend. Lena owns 15% of dei FIori Hotels which Matteo is determined to purchase from her. Can Matteo charm Lena? Will she sell the shares to him?

Matteo arranges a private dinner for two on the rooftop of Lena's hotel. He thinks of everything-- champagne, flowers and a gourmet meal  The couple is able to talk and take in the stunning view of Venice as they share dinner. The attraction between Lena and Matteo builds as the story progresses. Is Lena falling for the charming Matteo?

The last two chapters of the book are well paced and full of romance and intrigue. To keep Lena safe, Matteo takes her to his family's private estate where she meets his Nona. Their conversation provides Lena and the reader with insight into Matteo's character and his determination to rebuild his family fortune. There are a few interesting twists in the storyline which were very surprising and kept me reading. I enjoyed that the author Nancy Robards Thompson provides subtle clues as to the storyline in the next book and at the same time wrote a fabulous conclusion to her own story. 

Reviewed by Susan Gorman

Book purchased by the reviewer on Amazon.