The Denim Blue Sea by Joanne DeMaio

I’m delighted today to be participating in author Joanne DeMaio virtual book tour for her latest release, THE DENIM BLUE SEA.

Joanne, a fellow coffee lover, always brings such interesting characters to life in her stories. You can check out a brief synopsis of her latest book on Goodreads and I’m here to share my thoughts on it today.

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Author Joanne DeMaio has a unique writing style that flows rhythmically drawing the reader deeper into the story with the turn of each page. Her latest release, THE DENIM BLUE SEA, is a perfect example of her writing method.

Friends gather at seaside Stony Point of Long Island South for the wedding of denim designer Maris Carrington and architect Jason Barlow. As with most weddings, all does not go smoothly. Maris and Jason are faced with tough choices as they draw closer to their wedding day. Several members of the wedding party are also confronted with their own problems prior to the wedding.

The family and friends come together to help the couple realize their dream. The ups and downs along the way to the alter makes for an even sweeter ending. A long-lost journal enhances the story through adding character depth and insight.

The author’s vivid descriptions and eye for detail places the reader in the middle of the activities. Readers can almost feel the sand under their feet as the story unfolds. An intriguing romance blended with bits of humor, suspense, and inspiration makes this a well-balanced story.

The characters are well-developed, likable and realistic. The mix of different careers and personalities makes for an engaging group that readers can relate to.

THE DENIM BLUE SEA is a feel-good story that will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions. The ride will entertain, inspire and cause you to smile a time or two as you quickly turn the pages to discover what happens.

The Denim Blue Sea by Joanne DeMaio, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2015, ISBN: 978-1505650747, Paperback, 370 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Here’s a bit of background on the author for those who aren’t familiar with her.

Joanne DeMaio is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary fiction. She enjoys writing about friendship, family, love and choices, while setting her stories in New England towns or by the sea. Her fifth novel, The Denim Blue Sea, was recently published. 

Currently at work on her next book, Joanne lives with her family in Connecticut. 

To learn more about the author, visit Joannedemaio.com. She also enjoys hearing from readers on her Facebook Page.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. Do you find seaside communities relaxing and enjoyable? Do you think a wedding by the sea would be nice or would it be problem-riddled?

*This post contains affiliate links.

Secrets of Honor

I’m delighted today to help spread the word about a friend, fellow blogger and author’s new book. You may have seen the cover around blogdom lately as SECRETS OF HONOR by Carol Kilgore was just released.

This fascinating story picks up where the mesmerizing cover leaves off, taking you on an amazing journey you won’t be able to put down. Here are my thoughts:

SECRETS OF HONOR by Carol Kilgore

I’m not sure which keeps you more on the edge holding your breath – the suspense of the situation or the sexual tension. Either way author Carol Kilgore nails it in her latest release, SECRETS OF HONOR.

From the opening lines to the breathtaking finish, Kilgore holds readers captivate with heart pounding action, steamy romance and spine-tingling suspense. She weaves an enthralling tale as she draws you into the setting with her eye for detail and her rich descriptions.

What starts out as a simple op working as a special set of eyes for the presidential security detail takes some terrible turns for Kat Marengo. The not-really-stolen rings she has hidden create a problem, plus the stimulating fantasies she’s having about her boss’s boss, Dave Krizak, concern her. But the secretive life or death note slipped to her by the First Lady really has her on edge.

As Kate and Dave are pulled into the First Lady’s plea for help, they learn a young girl (the daughter of the First Lady’s best friend) has been kidnapped and the First Lady is the key to her release. The more they learn, they more they suspect there are higher stakes and more elaborate plans in the works.

The crisis escalates as more is uncovered and time is running out. As an operative for a covert agency buried in the depths of the Department of Homeland Security, Kat is faced with struggles she never imaged. Will friendship and loyalty be stronger than greed and betrayal?

The characters are well-developed and likable, many sharing traits readers can relate to. The twists and turns keep you wondering what could happened next so don’t be surprised if you’re saying ‘no, no’ at some point. With SECRETS OF HONOR Kilgore puts a whole new spin on what we’re told, when we’re told, how we’re told and why we’re told all in the name of safety and security.

This is a cleaver tale of loyalty, betrayal, and pursuing justice at all cost.

Author Carol Kilgore’s website is http://www.carolkilgore.net/

Secrets of Honor by Carol Kilgore, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1500522032, Paperback, 294 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure – A copy of this book was sent to me by the author as part of her virtual book tour. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review. The thoughts are completely my own and given honestly and freely.

Thanks so much for stopping by today. I hope I’ve enticed you to check out Carol’s new book. Keep an eye open as she is will be on tour with this captivating new book. I couldn’t help but show the entire book cover.

Have you ever wondered if the news we are given about certain major events is all true?

*This post contains affiliate links.

When I Grow Up, If You Were Me and Lived In ….

Teaching youngsters to not only enjoy reading, but learn while doing so is always a good thing. I’m sharing my thoughts on several children’s books that accomplish this task quite well and with ease.

WHEN I GROW UP I WANT TO BE … IN THE U.S. NAVY by Wigu Publishing

This is a charming story of a young boy named Noah who enjoys hearing his Grandpa Ed’s stories of being in the Navy.

When a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier comes into port, Noah is excited to visit it. Noah and his little sister, Marina, tour the ship with their grandfather. He tells them the sailors take an oath to keep the country safe. He explains the various jobs on the ship and the different names items have.

The youngsters talk about the different positions on the ship and what they want to be. They finally decide they can both be on the ship – Noah as a fighter pilot and Marina as the captain of the ship.

Woven throughout the delightful story is detailed information about the Navy, the personal involved on the ship and the duties they perform. The cheerful illustrations of Noah, Marina and Grandpa Ed are blended with actual photos showing the workings of a ship.

This book is educational and entertaining. It shows respect to those serving in the U.S. Navy, while making it easy for youngsters to understand. It combines history with career choices and presents it on a level youngsters can appreciate.

When I Grow Up I Want To Be … in the U.S. Navy by Wigu Publishing, Wigu Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1939973023, Paperback, 58 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN …. By Carole P. Roman

If you are looking for a way to explain different cultures to your youngsters, award-winning author Carole P. Roman has a delightful series that you don’t want to miss.

Each book in the series features a different country, introducing youngsters to the culture and customs of that region.
 
IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … AUSTRALIA takes youngsters Down Under to learn about the county (and continent) of Australia. They learn its location and capital city. They learn the popular names of boys and girls. They also learn of interesting places to visit, what games are played and the major holiday.

This story is presented in simple, easy terms youngsters will be able to follow. The story is fun and educational and brought to life through beautiful illustrations.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … FRANCE takes youngsters on a magical trip to Western Europe to tour Paris. The charming story tells of the activities youngsters would see and participate in while in France. It explores the various differences in the cultures.

The book, also beautifully illustrated, shows diversity, as well as similarity in the youngsters’ activities.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … INDIA whisks youngsters to South Asia and the second most populated country in the world, India. Youngsters learn how people travel and how their money is different. The story explores beautiful monuments and discusses good.

The colorful illustrations enhance the story. Youngsters will learn that no matter where they go in the world, children are basically the same.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … KENYA explores the customs and cultures of a part of Africa. Youngsters learn the names parents are called and the various animals that call that region home.

The story teaches youngsters about how people prepare their meals and enjoy their leisure time. The lovely illustrations will hold youngsters’ attention as they learn the ways of other countries.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … MEXICO carried readers to the southern part of North America. Youngsters will learn of traditions and customs that have long histories.

Beautifully illustrated, the story teaches youngsters interesting facts about the neighboring country. They learn names and favorite places to visit, along with activities everyone enjoys. They learn how the money is different and the alternate name for school.

I YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … NORWAY takes youngsters away to ‘The Land of the Midnight Sun.’ The story teaches the history of their money, explains about the Northern Lights, and tells of a hotel made out of snow and ice.

The colorful illustrations bring the activities to life showing youngsters fun events are enjoyed all over the world. Youngsters will learn bits of history while enjoying the read.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … SOUTH KOREA propels readers to a land in East Asia. This enchanting story will entertain youngsters with history and facts from a culture far away.

The delightful illustrations highlight activities youngsters all over the world enjoy. This fascinating story will explore the diversity of the two cultures, while showing the similarities.

IF YOU WERE ME AND LIVED IN … TURKEY finds readers exploring Western Asia. This charming story gives a bit of history about the country’s location and travel spots tourists would visit.

Richly illustrated, this book will enhance youngsters’ learning experience. This is a great way for youngsters to learn without feeling pressured.

This charming series offers a wonderful way for children to learn and have fun doing it. The series opens up avenues for parents and children to discuss how people of the world are different, but still the same. It’s a fascinating way for youngsters to explore the world. The series is geared toward youngsters ages 3 to 8, but can be enjoyed by all ages.

If You Were Me and Lived In … Australia by Carole P. Roman, A Child’s Introduction to Culture Around the World, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2014, ISBN: 978-1490522395, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … France
ISBN-13: 978-1481032001, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … India
ISBN-13: 978-1484930861, @2014, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Kenya
ISBN-13: 978-1481979917, @2013, Paperback, 30 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Mexico
ISBN-13: 978-1480209626, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Norway
ISBN-13: 978-1481979948, @2013, Paperback, 30 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … South Korea
ISBN-13: 978-1481062343, @2013, Paperback, 28 Pages
If You Were Me and Lived In … Turkey
ISBN-13: 978-1481979849, @2013, Paperback, 26 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - These books were sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copies did not influence my reviews.

Hi everyone and thanks for stopping by today. It’s always a pleasure when I can pass along information on books that will entertain and educate the youngsters in your lives. Hope you’re having a pleasure Saturday. What’s on your reading agenda for today?

*There are affiliate links in this post.

State vs. Lassiter by Paul Levine

Jumping into a series isn’t always easy, but author Paul Levine crafted his latest Jake Lassiter novel, STATE VS. LASSITER, in such a fashion that it’s easy to follow for new or returning fans of this suspenseful series.

Jake Lassiter is a criminal attorney who tends to use the justice system to his advantage when defending a client in Dade County, FL. It seems Lassiter will have to put his talents to use helping his own defense attorney when he’s charged with murder.

When Lassiter is awaken on the beach by an officer, he thinks he’s facing a loitering charge. But things quickly go downhill when he discovers he’s a suspect in the murder of his girlfriend/banker, Pamela Baylins. The previous night Lassiter and Baylins were enjoying dinner out as part of an expensive weekend getaway when they got into a heated argument. Lassiter had received a call informing him his trust accounts had been tampered with. He confronted Baylins, who was overseeing those accounts, resulting in them arguing all the way back to their hotel room. 

Baylins is found dead in their hotel room, strangled with Lassiter’s missing belt. To further complicate things, Baylins apparently sent an email implying Lassiter was the one tampering with the trust accounts. As the evidence against him mounts, Lassiter has to use every tactic he and his lawyer know to get to the bottom of the murder. 

Levine quickly pulls you in as you try to piece together Lassiter’s movements and determine who the killer is and why. The characters are well-developed and realistic. There is the right amount of humor woven throughout to lighten the mood while still keeping you in suspense. 

STATE VS. LASSITER moves at a smooth, quick pace. It’s filled with action and suspense and just even twists to keep you on the edge of your seat. Lassiter is a protagonist you will quickly develop a fondness for with his mixture of witty personality and self-disapproval. As a standalone read, this is a good place to start the series. However, don’t be surprised to find yourself longing to know what earlier escapades Lassiter has gotten himself into and out of.

This is a fun, entertaining read that will be hard to put down.

Author Paul Levine’s website is http://www.paul-levine.com/
 
State vs. Lassiter by Paul Levine, A Jack Lassiter Novel, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, @2013, ISBN: 978-1492184874, Paperback, 284 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure – A digital copy of this book was sent to me by a book promoter in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Thanks for stopping by today. Do you enjoy courtroom thrillers?

DOUBLE MAYHEM by Sam Berretti

As several paths come together in an explosive beginning, you can’t help but be drawn into unable to look away. You have to know more - who are these people, what just happened and why.

Author Sam Berretti has crafted a suspenseful mystery in DOUBLE MAYHEM. The story is well-balanced with colorful characters, witty dialogue and action sprinkled with a touch of humor and a hint of romance.

It all begin when Doris Watson reluctantly goes on a blind date and ends up killing a syndicate hit man. From there Doris’ world is turned upside down and she no longer knows who to trust.

A military brat, Doris enjoys her simple life as a professional engineer creating amazing devices. She’s no trained assassin or spy, just an ordinary woman. She is suddenly embroiled in life-threatening circumstances when she’s asked to take a secret handoff from a Chinese agent who believes she’s someone else. To complicate matters more, she’s been entrusted to care for a mysterious psychic child.

Doris knew the blind date was a bad idea, she just didn’t know how bad.

This is a mesmerizing mystery filled with fast action and realistic characters. The emotions run the gamut from terror to heartwarming, from funny to heartbreaking. There are intriguing twists and turns to keep you guessing. Doris is a heroine you can’t help but like and pull for. She’s smart, strong and independent with just enough flaws to be endearing. 
      
DOUBLE MAYHEM is the first installment in a new Seekers Mystery series that is sure to have a great following. Berretti has created a new female heroine that mystery lovers will be keeping an eye out for.

Double Mayhem by Sam Berretti, Seekers Mystery Series Book One, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2012, ISBN: 978-1480291485, Paperback, 384 Pages (Also available in digital format)

FTC Full Disclosure - A digital copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
Thanks for stopping by today. Hope you’re having a wonderful weekend filled with lots of time to read.

Trust: Betrayed And The Glass Wives

Have you ever thought about how some things are so different, but so similar at the same time?

Well, I have two completely different books to share with you today. At their core, however, the stories are similar in that they focus on family, hope and the search for happiness.

TRUST: BETRAYED by Cristiane Serruya

Sophia, Ethan and Alistair are in the spotlight once again as their lives go forward (and back) in TRUST: BETRAYED, Book Two in the Trust Trilogy by Brazilian author Cristiane Serruya.

Dark secrets continue to plaque each member of the unique trio as their lives unfold from their past deeds. Sophia wants a relationship with Alistair, but can’t seem to find peace within herself and allow herself to move on. Needing redemption and feeling unworthy of love, Alistair tries to push Sophia away. He loves her and wants to save her from his own demons. Ethan, meanwhile, reeling from his loss of Sophia has created his own alternate reality. Still in love with Sophia, he will pay any price to have her back.

Misery, guilt, pain and fear surround these three main characters. They are tormented daily with their problems. The author continues to develop her characters, giving their more depth and expanding their emotions. She has created well-balanced characters that are realistic and easy to like, even with their bad flaws.

TRUST: BETRAYED moves at a steady pace holding the readers interest. There are twists and turns that keep you wondering what could possible happen next. 

While dealing with secrets from the past, the author moves the story back and forth in time. Her smooth transition makes it easy to follow along without getting lost in a time warp. In addition, there are several steamy sex scenes.

The characters draw you in and the writing holds you spellbound until the end. Serruya’s writing has a mesmerizing rhythm, though she writes of dark and complex events. The story will leave readers looking forward to seeing how the trio fares in the next installment.


Author Cristiane Serruya’s website is http://cristianeserruya.com.br/
 
Trust: Betrayed by Cristiane Serruya, Book Two in the Trust Trilogy, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2013, ISBN: 978-1482586473, Paperback, 556 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - An eBook copy of this book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 

THE GLASS WIVES by Amy Sue Nathan

As families split apart forming new units, the idealized notion of a traditional family can change drastically.

The family core is the focus of Amy Sue Nathan’s debut novel, THE GLASS WIVES: A Novel. She explores what makes a family unit and why traditional sometimes has to be altered.

Narrator Joyce Bean does an excellent job bringing these characters to life. Her varied vocalization gives each character their own distinct voice. Bean brings out the various emotions and energy the author has woven throughout the story.

Evie Glass never thought her ex-husband Richard could turn her world upside down again. But when Richard died suddenly in a traffic wreck, she found out how wrong she was. Now she is left to raise their twins on her own.

Richard’s second wife, Nicole, is also left to raise their infant son on her own. She turns to Evie, wanting to create a family unit with her and Richard’s other children.

At first, despite the tragedy of Richard’s death, Evie sees it as a way to free herself and the twins from ever dealing with Nicole and her baby again. She didn’t count on how deeply her children cared for their half brother. And she especially didn’t count on having to seek financial help to keep her home without Richard’s monthly support payments. When Nicole offers to pay rent and move in with her and the kids, Evie dismissed it, but soon realizes she doesn’t have a choice.

Just as things are settling into a familiar routine, Evie discovers Nicole may be up to no good, trying to pull off a scheme behind her back. Evie has to decide if she can trust the woman who had an affair with her husband and destroyed her marriage.

Nathan has created likable characters with realistic problems and emotions. While Evie came off a bit self-centered to me at times, she also had moments of compassion and tenderness for balance. Nathan also weaves in how secrets, even among friends, can sometimes be damaging. In addition, the author gives vivid descriptions and explanations for a Jewish life that add another layer to the story.

THE GLASS WIVES moves at a steady pace and holds the reader/listener’s attention with a few surprising twists and turns along the way.

Author Amy Sue Nathan’s website is http://amysuenathan.com/

The Glass Wives by Amy Sue Nathan, Performed by Joyce Bean, Brilliance Audio, @2013, ISBN: 978-1480514751, Unabridged, 8 Discs, Listening Time: 9 Hours, 6 Minutes

FTC Full Disclosure - This audio book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
Thanks for stopping by today. What interesting book are you reading/listening to today?

Falling For Sarah by Cate Beauman

Author Cate Beauman begins with her protagonist on a joyous high only to have her world shattered in an instant. From there the author takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions before delivering a suitable ending.

Sarah Johnson is a young widow with an infant daughter struggling to pick up the pieces of her life after the death of her husband. Her only contentment is found in raising her beautiful daughter Kylee and her work as a photographer to Hollywood’s A-list. 

Ethan Cooke has been a friend to her and her husband for a long time. When he surprises her with a searing kiss under the moonlight, everything changed.

Even though her husband has been dead for two years, Sarah finds herself struggling with the guilt of betraying his memory after her unexpected attraction to Ethan. However when she begins receiving disturbing notes and blue roses, Sarah has to lean on Ethan. It’s up to him to keep her safe as they battle their own feelings of guilt and attraction.

Beauman weaves a beautiful tale of friendship that grows into a steamy romance and loving relationship. Her characters are likable, well-developed, and realistic. Readers can relate to their pain and suffering, as well as their hopes and dreams.

The story moves at a fast pace holding readers captivate from the first page to the last. Beauman blends humor, loyalty, suspense, romance and friendship for a well-balanced tale. In addition, Beauman develops the new relationship between Sarah and Ethan at a steady speed, not rushing the situation yet not dragging it out. She explores their inner feelings and conflicts of guilt and attraction in a plausible manner.  

FALLING FOR SARAH is an easy read that will be hard to put down. The characters are fun and the plot tantalizing.

Author Cate Beauman’s website is http://www.catebeauman.com
 
Falling For Sarah by Cate Beauman, Book Two in the Bodyguards of L.A. County Series, CreateSpace Independent Publishing, @2012, ISBN: 978-1480086685, Paperback, 384 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - A Kindle copy of this book was sent to me by the author’s publicist in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
Thanks for stopping by today. Some may remember that author Cate Beauman visited with us here at Thoughts on April 23 to talk about this book and shared an excerpt. She plans to return on Monday, June 3, to talk about the next installment in this delightful series and will be offering another giveaway. Be sure to mark your calendars.