E-book deals from Avon Romance!

Hi, everyone! I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season! 

In case you need some time to relax from all of the festivities, Avon has a lot of great deals on e-books, priced $2.99 and under! Check out this page for all of the sale titles:  

Avon Sale

I have my eye on a few titles myself, here are just a few that may find their way to my e-reader!

"The Cowboy and the Angel" by T.J. Kline only .99 cents!

"Someone to Watch Over Me" by Lisa Kleypas $1.99

"Make it Right" by Megan Erickson only .99 cents!

"Covering Kendall" by Julie Brannagh only .99 cents! (The entire Love and Football series is on sale!)

Check out the rest of the titles on sale here. There's something for every romance fan!

Sunday Shout Out 58

Recently, I introduced a new feature here at In the Hammock on Sundays. It's called "Sunday Shout Out" and it's a place where I can give a special shout out to those publishers and authors who have sent me books over the week, as well as those bloggers who have hosted contests that I've won! I'll also be giving shout outs to any other cool books, blogs or bookish news that I've spotted during the week.

For Review

 "Illusionarium" by Heather Dixon

 "I Loved a Rogue" by Katharine Ashe

 "Lady Sarah's Sinful Desires" by Sophie Barnes

 

 

 "The Duke and the Lady in Red" by Lorraine Heath

 "Mayhem" by Jamie Shaw

 

"A Matchmaker's Christmas" by Donna Lea Simpson

 

What books did you receive this week?

Waiting on Wednesday 260

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine, and it is a way to show off the books you can't wait to be released!!

This week I chose: 

"Illusionarium"

by Heather Dixon
Greenwillow
Release Date:  May 19, 2015

From the author of Entwined, a brilliantly conceived adventure through an alternate London. This sweeping, cinematic tale of an apprentice scientist desperate to save his family—and his world—is The Night Circus meets Pixar.

Through richly developed parallel worlds, vivid action, a healthy dose of humor, and gorgeous writing, Heather Dixon spins a story that is breathtaking and wholly original.

Everything about this sounds fascinating! Love the gorgeous cover, too!

What are you waiting for this week???

Giveaway and Special Deals from Pocket!

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL PRICE DEALS
FROM YOUR FRIENDS AT GALLERY BOOKS & POCKET STAR PUBLICITY!

All pricing is for ebook format!

HOT COP BOX SET: GOOD GIRL GONE BAD, SKIN & JADED by Karin Tabke (on-sale: Dec. 29th, 2014)

Strip clubs, kidnappings, the mafia, and undercover missions—it’s all here in the first three books in national bestselling author Karin Tabke’s sizzling Hot Cops series!
PROMOTIONAL PRICE OF $2.99 for all 3 books ▫ Starting December 30th!

DECEPTIVE INNOCENCE by Kyra Davis (on-sale: June 24th, 2014)

Book 1of the Pure Sin series from New York Times bestseller Kyra Davis! A woman bent on revenge falls for the son of a powerful, dangerous family and he has secrets of his own, darker than she ever imagined.
PROMOTIONAL PRICE OF $1.99 ▫ Now until January 11th, 2015!

HUNTED by Karen Robards (on-sale: December 10th, 2013)

A reckless former detective and a hostage negotiator join forces unexpectedly in the latest pulse-pounding romantic suspense novel from New York Times, USA TODAY, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author Karen Robards!
PROMOTIONAL PRICE OF $2.99 ▫ Now until January 11th, 2015!

 

TIM CRATCHIT’S CHRISTMAS CAROL by Jim Piecuch (on-sale: November 17th, 2014)

Tiny Tim is all grown up in this continuation of Charles Dickens’s beloved holiday classic A Christmas Carol, and this time, a certain ghost shows him the true meaning of Christmas cheer!
HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99!

Amazon

A HOLIDAY GAMBLE by Jane Feather (on-sale: November 17th, 2014)

A viscount stranded on a stormy night. The beautiful heiress who takes him in. Warm up with this delightfully romantic short story set in Regency-era England, from New York Times bestselling author Jane Feather!

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99!

Amazon

I’M DREAMING OF AN UNDEAD CHRISTMAS by Molly Harper (on-sale: November 17th, 2014)

Experience the vampire world for the holidays through the eyes of Gigi Scanlon in this e-novella prequel to The Dangers of Dating a Rebound Vampire from beloved paranormal romance author Molly Harper!

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99

Amazon

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MIRACLE by Christine Feehan (on-sale: November 7th, 2014)

No Christmas will ever be the same after Cole and Maia meet on a snowy western ranch… Find out why in #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan’s romantic holiday e-novella!

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99!

Amazon

WHEN SPARKS FLY by Sabrina Jeffries (on-sale November 17th, 2014)

When an intrepid heiress finds herself away from home for the holidays—in the manor of a dark and handsome baron, no less—romance sizzles in this holiday enovella, originally published in Snowy Night with a Stranger, from New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries.

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99!

Amazon

HOLIDAYS WITH THE WALKER BROTHERS by Nicole Edwards (on-sale May 16th, 2014)

You are personally invited to spend the holidays with the Walker brothers and their families. As with any other time of the year, the seven brothers know how to heat things up while stirring up trouble, and between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, they don’t hold back.

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $3.99!

Amazon

 

THE PERFECT GIFT by Dani-Lyn Alexander (on-sale November 17th, 2014)

It’s the season of second chances in this heartwarming, contemporary holiday romance where two single parents find each other—and another chance at love—in the most unexpected of places!

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $0.99!
 Amazon

THE CHRISTMAS TRAIN by Rexanne Becnel (on-sale November 17th, 2014)

An estranged father and daughter meet for the first time at Christmas in this touching holiday story that will tug at your heart, from USA TODAY bestselling author Rexanne Becnel.

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $1.99! 

Amazon

SCARY MOMMY’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS by Jill Smokler (on-sale November 17th, 2014)
From New York Times bestselling author and acclaimed “Scary Mommy” blogger Jill Smokler comes a funny and practical guide filled with essays, recipes, and tried-and-true tips sure to get any parent through the holiday season—without losing your marbles.

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $2.99!

HAVE YOURSELF A NAUGHTY LITTLE SANTA by Karin Tabke (on-sale October 2008)

What’s in your stocking? Bestselling author Karin Tabke knows you like your men naughty… and naughtier.

HOLIDAY PRICE OF $2.99!

Amazon

BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE by Jennifer Probst,  Emma Chase, Kristen Proby, Melody Anne, and Kate Meader (on-sale October 28th, 2014)

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling indie authors Jennifer Probst, Emma Chase, Kristen Proby, Melody Anne, and debut author Kate Meader come together to write a sizzling romance anthology.

Outside it may be frosty, so turn the heat way up with these stories of desire!

Amazon

To celebrate these great deals, Pocket Books is offering a paperback copy of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" to a lucky reader of In the Hammock!

GIVEAWAY RULES: The publisher has generously provided a paperback copy of "Baby, It's Cold Outside" for a lucky reader of my blog!

All you have to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below.

• US and CAN only
• Books will be mailed out by the publisher
• Must be 18 or over 

• Ends Dec 28

Thanks to everyone for entering! Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Daily Painting" Review

"Daily Painting"
by Carol Marine

Publisher: Watson-Guptill
Release Date: Nov 4, 2014
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

Summary from Goodreads:

A unique system for jump-starting artistic creativity, encouraging experimentation and growth, and increasing sales for artists of all levels, from novices to professionals.

Too many artists find themselves in a frustrating rut: unable to sell paintings hanging in galleries, bogged down by projects they can't finish "or "abandon, and using any excuse to avoid working in the studio. Author Carol Marine was herself suffering from painter's block--until she discovered "daily painting." The idea is simple: do art (usually small) often (how often is up to the individual) and, if you desire, post it and sell it online. Today Marine is among the best and most celebrated daily painters, and the curator of the popular online gallery dailypaintworks.com. In her debut, "Daily Painting," Marine reveals the tips and tricks that helped her and other daily painters pick up the paintbrush and start creating beautiful, bountiful, marketable work.

My Review:

This book is both informative and very inspiring! The author encourages artists of all skill levels to practice their art every day (it's ok if you miss a day!) to become better at their craft, and also break free from a rut.

The artwork in the book is amazing! The book features mini masterpieces by the author as well as many other daily painters. It's fascinating that each piece of art in the book was created, from start to finish, in one day. One way that the author is able to achieve this is by producing many small works, normally 6x6.

This book contains both practical advice on painting, with great information on supplies and techniques.  It's not just an instructional book though, it also includes motivation to create every day and break free from a rut. I really enjoyed the section at the end where other daily artists chimed in with ways that they lose their artist's block.

Bottom Line:
This book is great motivator for any artist to get painting today!



Buy from Random House


Disclosure: "I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review."

Sunday Shout Out 57

Recently, I introduced a new feature here at In the Hammock on Sundays. It's called "Sunday Shout Out" and it's a place where I can give a special shout out to those publishers and authors who have sent me books over the week, as well as those bloggers who have hosted contests that I've won! I'll also be giving shout outs to any other cool books, blogs or bookish news that I've spotted during the week.

For Review

 "Crouching Tiger, Forbidden Vampire" by Kerrelyn Sparks

 "Daily Painting" by Carol Marine

What books did you receive this week?

"An Heiress for All Seasons" Review

"An Heiress for All Seasons"
by Sophie Jordan
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Release Date: Nov 4, 2014
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

When a holiday blizzard brings together a pair of reluctant lovers, the result threatens their reputations … and may cost them their hearts.

Feisty and independent American heiress Violet Howard swears she'll never wed a crusty British aristocrat. Will, the Earl of Merlton, is determined to salvage his family's fortune without succumbing to a marriage of convenience.

But when a snowstorm leaves Violet and Will stranded and alone, their sudden chemistry will challenge good intentions. Seized by a desire that burns through the night, they'll toss reservations aside in favor of the heat found in each other's arms.

Will their passion survive the storm? Will they realize they've found a love to last them through all seasons?

My Review:

My favorite thing about this book is that it's advertised as a Christmas novella, and it actually is very Christmas-y! All the snowy scenes are just perfect! It makes you want to snuggle up in front of the fire with a blanket and pretend you're at a holiday house party, too!

That being said, I didn't love the romance in this one. On one hand, I loved that Will was totally into Violet and let everyone know how interested he was. He didn't hide his feelings at all. It was so cute to see the meddling mamas so proud of their successful match-making. On the other hand, when Violet and Will were alone together, he came on way to strong for my liking. He was almost creepy and always seemed to be invading her space.

Another problem that I had with the story was that it was too short! I personally love novellas, especially holiday novellas, so I'm used to a shorter story and I think it can be done really well! But this story needed more time to really get to know the reasons why they loved each other. The ending was a little too abrupt, and I couldn't believe it was over already!


Main Characters: 3/5
Supporting Characters: 3/5
Setting: 5/5
Romance: 4/5
Uniqueness: 3/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 4/5

Bottom Line: This is a short, fun holiday read. Plenty of snow, but not quite enough substance.

Disclosure: I received an e-copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

"Steampunk: Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol" Review

"Steampunk: Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol"
by Charles Dickens, Illustrated by Zdenko Basic
Publisher: Running Press Kids
Release Date: Sept 23, 2014
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars

Find on goodreads.com.
Summary from Running Press:

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol tells the time-honored tale of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge, whose encounters with the ghosts of Jacob Marley, Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Yet to Come lead him to examine his bitter existence. Haunting steampunk illustrations by acclaimed artist Zdenko Basic accompany the original story, transforming this Christmas classic like never before. Images of steam-powered machinery, a chilling industrial London, and ornate mechanical gears come together as Scrooge travels through his life on Christmas Eve night.
Additionally, Charles Dickens’ celebrated short stores, “The Story of the Goblins Who Stole a Sexton” and “A Christmas Tree” are included and paired with equally enchanting steampunk illustrations. Those of us who cherish each holiday with Dickens in our hearts—the man who has linked the Christmas spirit with love, forgiveness, and charity—will treasure this rare collector’s edition for this Christmas and many to come.

My Review:

I've read a few of the Steampunk versions of classics illustrated by Zdenko Basic, and I think this book may be my favorite one. The Dickens story just translates so well into a steampunk world, and the supernatual elements are so well depicted in a fun and eye-catching way. Of course, it helps that I already love this classic story!

I love the way that Ebenezer is depicted in a 'normal' way, while the three ghosts, Marley, and other characters that Ebenezer meets are depicted in a more cartoon-like way. Their features digitally exaggerated, they have huge smiles, and it just adds to the fun, over-the-top dreamlike feeling of the story.

Two other short stories by Dickens are also included as a lovely bonus!



Bottom Line: This would be a lovely gift to fans of both the classic Dickens story and lovers of the steampunk genre itself.

Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

"What a Wallflower Wants" Review

"What a Wallflower Wants"
by Maya Rodale
Publisher: Avon
Release Date: Sept 30, 2014
Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4 of 5 Stars

Summary from goodreads.com:

In the third novel in Maya Rodale's charming Wallflower series, London's Least Likely to Be Caught in a Compromising Position finds temptation in a devilishly handsome stranger . . .

Miss Prudence Merryweather Payton has a secret.

Everyone knows that she's the only graduate from her finishing school to remain unwed on her fourth season—but no one knows why. With her romantic illusions shattered after being compromised against her will, Prudence accepts a proposal even though her betrothed is not exactly a knight in shining armor. When he cowardly pushes her out of their stagecoach to divert a highwayman, she vows never to trust another man again.

John Roark, Viscount Castleton, is nobody's hero.

He's a blue-eyed charmer with a mysterious past and ambitious plans for his future—that do not include a wife. When he finds himself stranded at a country inn with a captivating young woman, a delicate dance of seduction ensues. He knows he should keep his distance. And he definitely shouldn't start falling in love with her.

When Prudence's dark past comes back to haunt her, John must protect her—even though he risks revealing his own secrets that could destroy his future.

My Review:

This historical romance is a lot different than most books in the genre, and I feel it deals with a really difficult issue in a sensitive way. Some horrifying things have happened to Prudence, causing lasting scars, and perhaps turning her into the 'wallflower' she is at the start of the novel. It was so inspiring to see her journey from all the pain of her past until she can begin to let love in.

John is one awesome guy. He is just so NICE. I loved that his character was never corny or over the top in his kindness either. He just WAS nice. It was so believable, and also wonderful to read how much he helped Prudence work through her pain and scars. I thought the twist with his character was fantastic and unexpected, too.

This review is a bit difficult to write without giving too much away, but I will say that this isn't a book for a faint-hearted reader. However, there was fair warning when the difficult flashback scene is coming so an especially sensitive reader (like me) can skip over this particular scene if they choose (like I did).

Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 4/5
Setting: 4/5
Romance: 5/5
Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 4/5
Writing: 5/5

Bottom Line: This book has themes that are difficult to read but the author handles the issues with large helpings of hope and love. Hopefully, reading the story through Prudence and John's eyes can help other people who have dealt with similar issues to cope and heal.

Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Sunday Shout Out 56

Recently, I introduced a new feature here at In the Hammock on Sundays. It's called "Sunday Shout Out" and it's a place where I can give a special shout out to those publishers and authors who have sent me books over the week, as well as those bloggers who have hosted contests that I've won! I'll also be giving shout outs to any other cool books, blogs or bookish news that I've spotted during the week.

This is a huge list, but I didn't get all of these books this week, don't worry!! I'm catching up on the last couple of months of Sunday Shout Outs!!

For Review

 "Adventure Time Crafts" by Princess Bonnibel Bubblegum and Chelsea Bloxsom

 see my review here! 

 "Of Silk and Steam" by Bec McMaster

"An Affair Downstairs" by Sherri Browning

"The Diabolical Miss Hyde" by Viola Carr

 

"Diary of an Accidental Wallflower" by Jennifer McQuiston

In Your Wildest Scottish Dreams" by Karen Ranney

"Catch a Falling Heiress" by Laura Lee Guhrke

 

"Say Yes to the Marquess" by Tessa Dare

"All That Burns" by Ryan Graudin

"It Started with a Scandal" by Julie Anne Long

 

"An Heiress for All Seasons" by Sophie Jordan

 

"Letting Go" by Molly McAdams

 

"The Tempting of Thomas Carrick" by Stephanie Laurens

 

"Taking Fire" by Lindsay McKenna

 

"First Time in Forever" by Sarah Morgan

"The Girls of Mischief Bay" by Susan Mallery

"Silverblind" by Tina Connolly

"HitRECord on TV: Season One" by Joseph Gordon-Levitt

While you're here, don't forget to enter the contest to win a huge prize pack of books and more from Harlequin!!

Huge Harlequin Holiday Prize Pack! Ends Dec 10

What books did you receive this week?