On Tour with Prism Book Tours
Welcome to the Book Blitz for
The Rancher’s Twins
By Carol Ross
Learn more about the start of this new Harlequin Heartwarming seriesread an
excerpt from this first book, sign up to review them all, and enter the giveaway below…

Note from the Author

Funny how the waning twilight of life shines so brightly on one’s mistakes. Nearing his eightieth birthday, family patriarch Elias Blackwell can only hope it’s not too late to rectify a few of his. Namely, his relationships with his five grandsons, Jonathon, Ethan, Ben, Tyler, and Chance. With both the operation of the Blackwell Family Ranch and the boys’ upbringing entrusted to him after the tragic death of his son and daughter-in-law, he made a mess of both. Now the boys are scattered to the winds and the family legacy is in jeopardy. Bringing his family back together is going to take every bit of the ingenuity, shrewdness, and tenacity Elias is known for. And, yes, maybe it’ll even take a bit of deception to instigate the Return of the Blackwell Brothers.


Each subsequent book in the series will release as follows:
The Rancher’s Twins by Carol Ross, August 1st
The Rancher’s Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb, September 1st
The Rancher’s Redemption by Melinda Curtis, October 1st
The Rancher’s Fake Fiancée by Amy Vastine, November 1st
The Rancher’s Homecoming by Anna J. Stewart, December 1st
In book one, The Rancher’s Twins, single father and rancher Jon Blackwell needs help. His five-year-old twin girls are out of control, it’s calving season, and his grandfather is MIA. Hiring a real nanny, a professional childcare worker from an accredited agency with years of experience, turns out to be the best decision ever. Lydia is amazing. She adores the girls. The girls love her. Even as Jon wonders if she’s too good to be true, he finds himself smitten, too. What he doesn’t know is that Lydia isn’t a professional at all. She’s on the run and using the ranch to hide out. Just when Jon begins to believe that life might actually be as sweet as Lydia’s smile, her past shows up and threatens to destroy them all.
― Carol


The Rancher’s Twins

(Return of the Blackwell Brothers #1)
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She’s not the country nanny he advertised for

But she could be perfect for him…

Jon Blackwell needs a woman ready to tackle the duties of a cattle ranch and two lively, take-no-prisoners twin girls. But ever since Lydia Newbury showed up at his six-generation Montana spread, the frazzled single father is rethinking, well, everything. The Philadelphia dazzler is a marvel. What he doesn’t know is the secret that has Lydia on the run…

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Excerpt

THAT WAS THE moment Lydia realized that she’d talked herself into a corner. She didn’t want to lie to him. Of course, she was sort of lying to him by being here as it was. But that was different. She’d had no idea that she’d fall in love—with him, his girls, the ranch, Falcon Creek. “I just kind of fell into it. All the jobs and experiences I’ve had seemed to point me in this direction. When my friend saw the position available, he encouraged me to take it.” That felt good, truthful. “And I’m so glad I did. It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“But…how is that possible?”

“What do you mean?”

“Stuck out here in the middle of nowhere taking care of someone else’s kids? This is the life you want?”

Lydia stared back at him, hoping her heart wasn’t showing in her eyes. “Um…” She turned and held her arms out in front of her. “This isn’t exactly nowhere. Pretty sure it’s the most beautiful place on earth.”

“I’m not trying to put you on the spot here, it’s just that I’m wondering why.”

In that moment, she wished she could tell him everything. But what would he think of her? There wasn’t a situation in the world that would cause Jon Blackwell to run from his problems the way she’d always run from hers. Maybe, she could tell him a little, though. Tanner’s warnings surfaced but she brushed them away. She’d keep things vague.

“Well, Jon, I’ve made some mistakes. I haven’t had great luck with relationships.” With a little grimace, she went on, “There’s no luck involved. It’s more that I get involved with the wrong guys. The last one was a real piece of work. I had a difficult time getting out of the relationship.” Gripping the rock she’d gathered, she continued, “That’s part of the reason that I took this job, to get away from him. I needed to get out of Philadelphia.”

Jon’s eyes homed in on her like a laser beam. “Lydia, did some guy…? What are you talking about? If someone hurt you, I’d like to know about it.”

Lydia’s heart fluttered helplessly in her chest. She couldn’t help but wonder how it would feel to have a man protect her for once, or at least to not want to hurt her. And not just any man, but this man, who was strong and smart and good. Too good, maybe, because he ended up with a woman who took advantage of that goodness. She ignored the little voice that reminded her that she was currently doing the same.

But she didn’t want to be. She wanted to protect him, too, from the wiles of Ava and Marilee. She wanted to help him in every way that she could—take care of his girls, support him on the ranch and keep him from working too hard. She wanted to be his partner. And love them all in the way they deserved.

“Um…he didn’t hurt me physically.” Lydia had often thought he wanted to. She suspected he’d been abusive in other relationships. “But he could be rough and the threat of more was always there. Verbal abuse, yes. I worked for him so that made it all worse.” She sighed. It was so difficult to explain without explaining. “At the end, I lived in constant fear.”

Lydia watched his mouth flatten out to a thin, angry line. “You deserve so much better.”

“Thank you. I know I want better.”

“What do you want?” His voice was low and deep and somehow made her want to cry a little.

You, her heart answered immediately. It hurt that she couldn’t say it, so she looked out at the view again. Doing her best to lighten the moment, she tossed the rock from the cliff and answered in a teasing tone, “Oh, I don’t know. Not much really. Just love, safety, security… And someday…maybe my own horse.”

Her attempt at levity didn’t work.

Jon looked out toward the horizon. He was still and appeared calm. But Lydia knew him better now. Tension radiated from him and she knew it wasn’t anger. Her breath stalled as her pulse began to pound fast and hard. His expression was pure Rancher Blackwell—grave and solemn and almost unreadable. Almost, because she could see the vulnerability there. She knew he had feelings for her, too. The attraction between them had been simmering hotly since he’d kissed her on Easter. What she hadn’t known was what those feelings entailed or how strong they were. But now she did. And at that moment, all of the reasons why they couldn’t be together flew out of her head. Which left only her heart, aching and craving his love. Just say it, she silently pleaded. Because no matter what happened long-term she wanted to hear the words at least once in her life from a person she wanted to hear them from.

He faced her again, his gray-blue gaze ensnaring hers. Her heart jumped into her throat. “What if I told you that I want those things, too? And what if I told you that I didn’t ever want to let you go, not even when the girls leave for college?”

Review Opportunities

Interested in reviewing the series? Sign up for each book by clicking on its cover.

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Carol Ross grew up in small town America right between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, in a place where you can go deep sea fishing in the morning and then hit the ski slopes the same afternoon. The daughter of what is now known as free range parents, she developed a love of the outdoors at a very early age. As a writer, Carol loves to breathe the life she has lived into the characters she creates, grateful for the “research material” that every questionable decision, adrenaline-charged misstep, and near-death experience has provided.

Blitz Giveaway

– 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card and a copy of THE RANCHER’S TWINS (print to US/CAN and ebook to international)
– 3 winners will each receive a copy of THE RANCHER’S TWINS (print to US/CAN and ebook to international)

– Ends August 5th

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On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Bachelor Remedy
By Carol Ross
We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:
Launch – Note from the Author

Welcome, welcome! I’m so excited to once again be on tour with Prism Book Tours. Bachelor Remedy is the fifth book in my Seasons of Alaska series. The hero, Tag James, has made a guest appearance in every previous book. In addition to his reluctant status in Rankins as the town’s Most Eligible Bachelor, he also has the distinction of being my Character Most Requested to Get His Own Story. Tag is everyone’s favorite – in his world and mine! When I set out to find a heroine to win his heart I knew she’d have to be really special – and a little unexpected. I think Ally is his perfect match, even if they do get off to a rather, er, muddy start. I hope you enjoy Tag and Ally’s story!

Ally my best,
Carol

It’s All About the Romance – Excerpt

“What I’m saying is that I can’t let you win.”

Sliding her gaze toward the hand still on her shoulder, she said, “Thanks for the warning. Better be careful, though. All this looking out for me and I’ll wonder about your intentions.”

He went hands up, palms out, eyes wide, like she’d just caught him robbing a bank. “No, no. I don’t… I’m not thinking about you…like that. I promise.”

An invisible pain hit her in the chest, so sudden and powerful that she brought a hand up and placed it there. She glanced away, forcing a smile that felt brittle enough to crack her face. How could she have been so stupid? He could have any woman he wanted. Why in the world would he consider…whatever it was she’d been thinking?

Inside The Mind of an Avid Reader – Review

“You do have to pay attention to what you are reading. If you are a reader that skims as they read you may miss some great details of this book. Tag and Ally both are familiar with the medical field but Ally likes to stay true to her roots as well. They mesh so well together. This is an excellent read.”

underneath the covers – Interview

5) What inspired this book?

In a general sense, the main character, Tag James, was overdue for an HEA. He’s made an appearance in every previous Seasons of Alaska book. Readers seem to love him almost as much as I do, and I’ve received the most requests for him to get his own story. So there’s that.

When it came to setting him up with the right woman, I knew I needed a strong conflict. Ideally, one that had them at odds externally and internally, so that he couldn’t easily brush her off. Tag is a pilot who owns an air transport company that does emergency medical evacuations. Since health and alternative medicine is sort of a hobby of mine, it seemed like a good place for them to butt heads. I think it worked out beautifully and I hope readers do, too!

Remembrancy – Review

“The combination of combustive chemistry, tormented tension, an ex-girlfriend set on getting her man back, and an abundance of opinionated family members make this book a great read.”

Paulette’s Papers – Excerpt

He went with “Yes, I am. That’s exactly what I’m going to say. Except it’s I… I shouldn’t have—”

She interrupted, “You mean I shouldn’t have? I kissed you.”

“No, I mean, I know you did. But I shouldn’t have let you.”

“Let me? You seemed to enjoy it. In fact, you kinda took over there at the end. Which is no surprise. You’re used to being in control, huh? To having things go your way?”

“No! I mean, yes, of course, I enjoyed…kissing you. Obviously. But we shouldn’t have. And we’re not going to do it again. I should have, I mean I shouldn’t have…and, yes, I like being in control of…certain things. But what does that have to do with this? I don’t even know what I’m saying…” Words lost, thoughts jumbled, he scraped a restless hand along the bench beside him.

Becky on Books – Interview

What are you working on right now? What can readers look for from you in the next year?

I’m currently working on Book 6 in my Seasons of Alaska series. This is Iris and Flynn’s story. And all I’m going to say about it is that Flynn is not having an easy time taking their relationship out the friend zone!

My next book comes out in August and I could not be more excited about it! The Rancher’s Twins is the first in a five-book, multi-author continuity series called Return of the Blackwell Brothers.

Here’s my pitch: When their grandfather goes AWOL five hot rancher brothers are called home to help on the family ranch. They’re bucking family issues, wrangling their personal demons and getting all tangled up in love! (Sorry, I couldn’t resist – it’s my first rancher book.)

It’s been such an incredible experience to work on this project with my four best author friends – Cari Lynn Webb, Melinda Curtis, Amy Vastine, and Anna J. Stewart. The books will be released one per month, August through December.

E-Romance News – Excerpt

She froze.

So did he. Then he sighed because what he wanted to do was pull her close and wrap his arms around her.

“Look, Ally, I’m the one who is let down. I like you, obviously. I’ve already told you that. And I’m beyond flattered that you would even entertain the thought of being interested in me.”

She stepped toward him, right into his comfort zone, and his pulse took off like a helicopter rotor at full speed.

“How could any woman not be interested in you?” Her voice was all soft, like she was about to tell him a secret, and his blood went hot as he remembered what happened last time she’d gotten this close…

The Power of Words – Review

Bachelor Remedy is a sweet romance, as one would expect from the Heartwarming line, but there’s an unexpected complexity and depth in this story that I loved. Carol Ross is an excellent writer and her words flow smoothly across the page with wisdom and emotion. Family members from previous books in this series are involved, but this story easily stands alone.

…Bachelor Remedy is a wonderfully entertaining read. Highly recommended.”

Rockin’ Book Reviews – Reviews

“This was a delightful tale of adventure, intrigue and romance….

This is a fast-paced tale of the rescue services we often take for granted, set within the majestic land of Alaska.

The story was very well-written, captivating the reader’s interest most of the time.” – LAWonder10

“Such a good story. I really like the relationships with Tag and his family and extended family.
The characters are well-developed and easy to feel their emotions. They all have distinctive personalities. I found myself really liking all of them…

I would highly recommend this book to other readers.” – Vickie

I Am A Reader – Excerpt

“James. Tag James,” he supplied.

“Tag, huh?” Reaching out, Rita gave his shoulder a playful nudge. “You’re it.”

Wait… What? Was this woman hitting on him while Ally was sitting right here?

Rita thrust her ID in Ally’s general direction with a flat “Thanks, hon.” Eager blue eyes remained fastened on Tag. “Is this little cutie your daughter?”

Ally slid a hand across the table, threaded her fingers through Tag’s and pitched her voice to sweet. “Wife, actually. Thank you, Rita, for your meticulous and painstaking commitment to the law. You’re a credit to your profession.”

“Oh…” Rita drawled, her pale cheeks turning nearly as pink as her lip gloss. “Um…you’re welcome. Are you guys ready to order?”

Janice’s Book Reviews – Review

Ally and Tag make a really great couple but he is just not sure of the age difference. Love how he flies patients to other hospitals or from the site they got injured… I enjoyed all the characters of the book but I believe Ally was my favorite.”

Locks, Hooks and Books – Excerpt

She realized she was staring when he asked, “Is something wrong? Am I too early? I know I’m not late.”

“Um, no. I was just admiring your…you, to be honest. Your eyes change colors, sometimes green, sometimes brown. You’re so…”

Right before her, his eyes darkened, and he made a sound, part chuckle, part incomprehensible mutter while grasping the back of his neck in that way he did when he was uncomfortable. He took a step toward her. Her heart jumped toward him. She wondered if he was going to kiss her. That would be a nice change, since she’d been the one making all the moves up to this point. Which was funny, now that she thought about it, because she’d never kissed anyone first. Ever.

Until him.

Harlie’s Books – Excerpt & Review

“Noted,” she replied calmly. “My turn.”

“What?”

Ally almost laughed at his look of utter confusion. “You said we were establishing ground rules. You gave me yours. If this works the way I think it does, then it’s my turn to outline my rules?”

Narrowing his gaze, he studied her like he was puzzling out this detail. His eyes burned into hers, and she couldn’t tell if they were green or brown. Inexplicably, the back of her neck began to tingle.

“Ms. Ross writes a true winner in the line and of course, I’m one of their biggest cheerleaders. They are heartwarming, funny, relevant with romance abound. Ms. Ross delivers a winner!”

Nicole’s Book Musings – Excerpt

Ally felt the back of her neck prickle. Her gaze swept across the sea of people and quickly latched onto Tag’s. His knowing grin paired with a quirk of one brow suggested he’d been waiting for her to catch sight of him. A furnace blast of heat radiated from her core all the way out through her skin. She returned the smile, and the next thing she knew they were moving toward each other.

“Hey,” he said, stopping in front of her. “Nice of you to come today.”

Among the Reads – Review

“I think my favorite part of the story was the basketball game at Tag’s family gathering. It had some great laugh out loud moments in it.

Bachelor Remedy is a great book to pick up for a nice romantic read.”

Two Points of Interest – Review

“I enjoyed the fact that this book had a character of Native American descent. . . . I did enjoy Carol’s writing style and look forward to reading other books by her.”

Heidi Reads… – Excerpt

“Are you…serious with this?” Slipping an arm behind him to grip the back of the bench, she inched toward him, studying his reaction. “Do you really not…?”

She scooted closer. Desire and terror looked to be at war on his face. He stared at her lips and leaned away from her at the same time. She would have laughed if it wasn’t so exasperating.

“Not what?” The question sounded strained. He swallowed, his Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat.

Ally planned every beat of her next move because she wanted to catch him off guard, wanted to see the heat flare in his eyes, wanted to elicit a reaction without giving him time to think.

Hardcover Feedback – Review

Bachelor Remedy was a fun read, that kept me up late trying to finish.

I loved the setting and think the cover perfectly captures this book…

If you enjoy clean contemporary romance novels, I think you’d like reading Bachelor Remedy.

Reading Is My SuperPower – Review

Bachelor Remedy by Carol Ross has a vivid setting, engaging characters, and an electric chemistry between the protagonists. The small town feel adds to its charm, and lots of twists and turns keep reader interest high. While Tag and Ally may appear to be opposites in many ways, they actually have a lot in common where it really matters. There is still plenty to be said for the whole ‘opposites attract’ theory, however, and their witty banter and sizzling romantic tension prove why. A sweet story with just enough spice to be swoony!”

Teatime and Books – Excerpt

“Did you or did you not see a woman who you interpreted as too young for this job and then decided that you’d teach her a thing or two? You, with your wisdom honed from years of experience, would come to the aid of an inexperienced, newbie female colleague?”

“No!” That he was not doing. “Nope. No way. Don’t even try that on me.”

“Don’t try what on you?”

“There’s no misogyny or ageism or sexism or racism or any other ‘ism’ going on here. I have four sisters and a boatload of female cousins, all of whom are younger than me. Each one is equally as smart and capable as I am, more so in many, many ways. This isn’t about any of that. This is about your workplace attitude, your approach and your lack of respect. After your behavior yesterday, I would have come in here today if you were an eighty-six-year-old man wearing a honey badger suit.”

Deal Sharing Aunt – Review

“I wanted these two characters to be alone, away from their lives, and just fall in love. However they had obstacles in their way. I would love to find out how they are living 10 years down the road. I am giving this book a 5/5.”

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway below and also check out the special post and exclusive giveaway at Harlequin Junkie on April 25th!
Bachelor Remedy
(Seasons of Alaska #5)
by Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
April 1st 2018 by Harlequin Superromance

She’s the most unconventional woman he’ll ever meet…

and the cure for a perennial bachelor?

Raised by her healer grandfather, former army medic Ally Mowak knows her alternative approach to traditional medicine puts her at odds with most of her Alaskan town. That includes Tag James, the rugged transport pilot with the sprawling family and political ambitions. Ally couldn’t be more wrong for the aspiring senator. Then why does everything feel so right when they’re together?

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Other Books in the Series

About the Author

USA Today bestselling author Carol Ross grew up in small town America right between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, in a place where you can go deep sea fishing in the morning and then hit the ski slopes the same afternoon. The daughter of what is now known as free range parents, she developed a love of the outdoors at a very early age. As a writer, Carol loves to breathe the life she has lived into the characters she creates, grateful for the “research material” that every questionable decision, adrenaline-charged misstep, and near-death experience has provided.

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of Summer at the Shore (signed copy to US and Canada, ebook to international)

– 2 winners will receive a $5 Amazon e-gift card and an e-book of Summer at the Shore (open internationally)
– Ends April 25th

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On tour with Prism Book Tours.

TODAY’S FREE SHORT STORY:

Her Thanksgiving Soldier by Leigh Riker

After ten years of war, black-ops soldier Caleb Henderson must decide whether to stay in the military – it’s all he knows – or to come home. Daisy McCall just might be his answer, but she doesn’t want to love another man in uniform.

Read it HERE!

Award-winning author Leigh Riker began her career with short stories then novels, and she still loves to write romance. When not writing, or thinking about writing, she likes to read, watch movies (funny or sad), dig in the garden, travel, and play the piano – with gusto if not finesse. At home in the Southeast she is (of course) working on a new novel.

Guest post about my story:
In my first Harlequin Heartwarming title, If I Loved You (July 2014), Molly Darling is already a two-time loser in romance when her ex-fiancé shows up at her door. Molly might not be tempted to try again with Brig Collier, a tough black-ops soldier, but he’s not alone. Brig has brought a baby, orphaned by war, with him, and adorable little Laila needs a home. Who knew a matchmaker could come in such a tiny package?
That book, in which one of Brig’s buddies appeared briefly via his emails from the battlefield about Laila, turned out to be the prequel to this new short story. Now, Caleb Henderson must decide whether to stay at war or come home at last. His decision wouldn’t be as hard if not for Daisy McCall, the director of a rehab center, who over Thanksgiving works her way into his heart. But Daisy, who has lost before, doesn’t want to love another man in uniform. Does she?
From the start, Caleb seemed to need his own story—and now he has it. I hope you enjoy reading “Her Thanksgiving Soldier.” I loved writing it.
Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

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Other Heartwarming Titles by this Author

If I Loved YouIf I Loved You

She deserves a man she can count on

Eight years ago Brigham Collier broke their engagement, and Molly Darling’s heart, when he put the military first. Now Molly is a childless widow, and the returning soldier’s back in town – with the most adorable baby she’s ever seen. He needs help looking after Laila, left in his care by a fallen teammate. But time is running out. Who will keep Laila when duty calls again?

Molly can’t turn her back on an orphan, but Laila reawakens her longing for a family of her own. And her feelings for Brig. If he shared her dream – instead of living for the next dangerous mission – she might dare say yes to him again. But he’ll never leave his post, and she won’t trust him with her heart a second time.

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TOUR SCHEDULE

We’ll be highlighting 13 FREE short stories by beloved Harlequin Heartwarming authors that will be available from Harlequin during November via their site. Not only that, but all Heartwarming print titles are 30% OFF during November from Harlequin as well! Use code HEART1115.

Don’t miss any of these FREE novellas! Stop by each of the tour stops each day:

11/2: Snow Day Baby by Amy Vastine
Singing Librarian Books, The Power of Words, & Katie’s Clean Book Collection


11/4: Wedding at Turkey Run by Liz Flaherty
My Love for Reading Keeps Growing, Babs Book Bistro, & Heidi Reads…

11/6: Her Thanksgiving Soldier by Leigh Riker
Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima, Mel’s Shelves, & Brooke Blogs

11/9: Mr. Right All Along by Jen Snow
Katie’s Clean Book CollectionMin Reads and Reviews, & Love thy Shelf

11/11: Falling for the Cowboy by Sophia Sasson
Kindle and Me, The Power of Words, & Colorimetry

11/13: The Marriage Gift by Tara Taylor Quinn
deal sharing aunt, Babs Book Bistro, & Brooke Blogs

11/16: Heart of a Hero by Pamela Tracy
Writing Pearls, Wishful Endings, & Waiting For Wentworth

11/18: Thankful for You by Karen Rock
Christian Chick’s Thoughts, Getting Your Read On, & Love, Laughter, Friendship

11/20: Autumn at Jasper Lake by Carol Ross
Reading Is My SuperPower, I Am A Reader, & Colorimetry

11/23: The Firefighterís Promise by Kate James
Canadian Book Addict, Mel’s Shelves, & Beck Valley Books

11/24: Wedding of His Dreams by Cari Lynn Webb
Bookworm Lisa, Kindle and Me, & Zerina Blossom’s Books

11/25: The Sweetheart Tree by Rula Sinara
The Written Adventure, Reading Is My SuperPower, & Writing Pearl

11/26: Married by Thanksgiving by Melinda Curtis
Heidi Reads…,  Love, Laughter, Friendship, & Singing Librarian Books 

11/29: Grand Finale

11/30: Facebook Party

Join us for

A Heartwarming Thanksgiving

We’ll be highlighting 13 FREE short stories by beloved Harlequin Heartwarming authors that will be available from Harlequin during November via their site. Join the fun by stopping by any or all of the tour stops, stopping by the Facebook Party (with additional giveaways), and entering the fabulous giveaways! We hope you find something to warm your heart and help you get into the holiday spirit!

GIVEAWAYS

Goodreads Giveaway

13 Harlequin Heartwarming Books
Enter on Goodreads HERE.

Pinterest Giveaway

 

Pin one or both of the above images to spread the word and enter to win this adorably festive Thanksgiving Table Set:

Pinterest Prize includes: four reversible, quilted placemats, four matching napkins, hand-painted matching napkin rings, matching table runner, matching quilted hot pad/trivet, floral centerpiece in pot, and hand-crafted pilgrim pair.

– Enter via the Rafflecopter below

– Open to US only

– Ends December 4th

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Tour Giveaway

Grand Prize: Harlequin Heartwarming Year Subscription (Provided by Harlequin and to US/CAN only)
$40 VISA card (US only)
13-Book Heartwarming Prize Pack: The Best Laid Plans, Back to McGuffy’s, If I Loved You, Love, Lies & Mistletoe, First Comes Marriage, Once Upon A Marriage, Small Town Secrets, Winter Wedding Bells, If Not For A Bee, When The Right One Comes Along, Wedding of His Dreams, After The Silence, and A Memory Away (print copies if US, ebooks if international)
8-Book Prize Pack: The Best Laid Plans, If I Loved You, Love, Lies & Mistletoe, First Comes Marriage, Once Upon A Marriage, Winter Wedding Bells, If Not For A Bee, and After The Silence (print copies if US, ebooks if international)

Ends December 4th

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On tour with Prism Book Tours.

If Not for a BeeIf Not for a Bee
(Seasons of Alaska #3)
by Carol Ross
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 206 Pages

October 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

You can’t always play it safe

With four sons dependent on her, Janie Everett needs to keep her life uncomplicated. Now famous scientist Aidan Hollings is disrupting her orderly world, starting with the rescue of a…bumblebee.

Aidan is only passing through her Alaska wilderness town, and wasn’t planning to bond with her two older boys. Or become so attracted to the widowed journalist. His globe-trotting days may be be over if he’s able to show Janie that they can share the adventure of a lifetime–together.

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Also in the Series


Mountains Apart
(Seasons of Alaska #1)
Amazon – Barnes & Noble – Harlequin – Kobo – Google Play

A Case for Forgiveness
(Seasons of Alaska #2)
Amazon – Barnes & Noble – Harlequin – Kobo – Google Play

Carol Ross lives with her husband and one loveable miscreant of a dachshund in a small town in Washington close to both the ocean and the mountains. She adores the Pacific Northwest because it provides her with endless opportunities for the activities she lovesóhiking, running, skiing, and spending time outdoors. Although she enjoys reading in many genres, she writes what she loves the mostóromance, especially light-hearted stories about the fun, flirty, and often-tumultuous path toward a happily ever after. For a complete list of her books, social media links, giveaways, and other fun stuff stop by and visit her new website: carolrossauthor.com.

Website – Goodreads – Facebook – Twitter – Pinterest


What’s Your Bee Story?

Yellow jacket/party crasher/watermelon stealer

There are certain critters that in spite of their diminutive stature, never fail to strike fear in the hearts of even the bravest among us – snakes, spiders, rats, bats. I’ve even seen people get the

heebie-jeebies over cockroaches and ants. But I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything that induces sheer terror quite the way a bee does.

Around here we whisper the word “barbecue” because the dreaded yellow jackets know this word,
assume they’re invited, and will immediately go and tell their friends. They are among the smallest and yet most vicious of party crashers—darting around unafraid, brazenly stealing watermelon and lurking around soda cans. They will sting at the slightest provocation.
Yet any bee, any flying creature that even resembles a bee will generate this kind of reaction. Think about it. You’re at a summer cook out and a bee flies by. What happens? People lose their freaking minds, and quite often their dignity and composure as well. The bee doesn’t even have to be seen. Just hearing that tiny word “bee” infused with the right tinge of panic will elicit chaos.

The grumpy bald-faced hornet, otherwise known as “my nemesis.”

I’ve seen big, strong, completely rational men run screaming like babies. I’ve seen graceful, composed women gyrate around like the worst So You Think You Can Dance audition imaginable. Brave Aunt Betty uses her corn on the cob to whack at the bee with one hand while wielding her paper plate like a shield. Uncle Stan abandons both Aunt Betty and his potato salad and sprints toward the house. Chairs are overturned, drinks are spilled, plates of cherished dessert are sacrificed.  My stepdaughter will literally drop whatever is in her hands—phone, food, purse, expensive glassware, whatever, it doesn’t matter, and disappear like Speedy Gonzales. The

only person unaffected is Grandma Vera who snores softly throughout the pandemonium in her deluxe patio recliner.

The lovely and graceful, ever-busy, honeybee

Now I know what you’re all thinking. Bee stings hurt. They do. I know this. I’ve had too many to count. As a child I was blackberry picking with my best friend’s family and fell over a fallen log right into a nest of bald-faced hornets. In case any of you aren’t familiar with this type of wasp, it’s particularly aggressive and lightning fast. I’ll never forget my terror—or the pain. Luckily, my friend’s dad was picking nearby and knew immediately (by my screams no doubt) what had happened. He scooped me up and sprinted down the hill like an Olympic hurdler, scaling downed logs and pulling

bees off of me the whole way. I still consider it a miracle that I was only stung thirteen times. He suffered several stings as well. Bless his heart.
Sweet, determined, diligent bumblebee

I have a newfound respect for these industrious creatures after writing If Not for a Beeespecially the hardworking honey and the noble bumble.  In this book, scientist Aidan Hollings is in

Alaska to study the native bee populations. My research led me to so many fascinating places. Even though most of what I learned didn’t make it into the book, I feel like I know these insects so much better. The crucial role these insects play in pollination can’t be overstated. I am determined to do my part to advocate for them, to protect them, to educate to the best of my ability. Where yellow jackets are concerned, however, I will continue to whisper.

Many times when I’ve mentioned the title, If Not for a Bee, I’ve been treated to a bee story – some funny, some fraught with dramatic close calls, and still others rather traumatic (especially for those allergy sufferers like my husband.) I know many of you reading this have a similar story (or two) to share. I’d love to hear your bee story.

(I feel compelled to point out that I’ve used the word “bee” here to encompass all manner of flying, stinging, bee-looking insects. There are notable differences between bees and wasps, but that’s material for another post.)

Tour Schedule

10/11: Launch
10/12: Katie’s Clean Book Collection & Zerina Blossom’s Books
10/13: Thoughts of a Blonde & The Power of Words
10/14:  Christy’s Cozy Corners, underneath the covers, & Teatime and Books
10/15: Letters from Annie (Douglass) Lima & deal sharing aunt
10/16: Singing Librarian Books & Chill Reviews
10/18: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

– Grand Prize: $50 Amazon Gift Card & copy of If Not for a Bee (open internationally, print book to US winner, ebook to international winner)
– US Prize Pack: bee coffee mug, bee charm necklace, 17.6 ounce jar of honey, honey dipper, box of organic tea, and signed copy of If Not for a Bee (US only)
– Ends October 23rd

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Grab Our Button!


The authors over at Harlequin Heartwarming are hosting a fabulous giveaway this month! Be sure to enter and comment over on their blog on each day’s post for extra entries. Here’s all the info:
After the long, harsh winter most of us endured, what better way to celebrate spring—and our April and May Heartwarming releases—than with an exciting new giveaway? As with any celebration, the more the merrier, and we hope you will join us.

First, here are the beautiful covers of the April and May books . . .

And here’s what we have planned to warm your heart and chase away any lingering winter blahs. All eight Heartwarming authors with April and May releases have teamed up to offer two prize packs of four books each. We will also give away one grand prize consisting of all eight books and a stunning mix of “ever-blooming” spring garden flowers, for use indoors or out. These are gifts you can enjoy time and again, as you can read our books over and over, and the flowers won’t fade when winter threatens, since they’re steel, painted in bright colors.


Our first prize pack contains:


The Truth About Hope by Kate James
Katia’s Promise by Catherine Lanigan
Raising the Stakes by Karen Rock
A Case for Forgiveness by Carol Ross

These books are certain to provide hours of springtime reading pleasure!









Our second prize pack contains:


The Long Road Home by Lynn Patrick
Man of His Word by Cynthia Reese
Fighting for Keeps by Jennifer Snow
Firefly Nights by Cynthia Thomason

Another set of four wonderful stories you will surely enjoy!

Finally, our grand prize winner will receive all eight books, along with an “ever-blooming” spring garden, consisting of a bouquet of 13 white daisies, two periwinkle blue alliums and a set of 13 black-eyed Susans, a retail value of over $150 US, before shipping.
Photos and “ever-blooming” flowers from Gardener’s Supply Company (http://www.gardeners.com/)

Now if that isn’t enough, we have a bonus book for each prize pack. Harlequin MIRA and Harlequin Intrigue author Elizabeth Heiter will include one of her recent releases—winner’s choice—in each of the prize packs.

There are three exciting prize packs waiting to be won. The contest runs until April 25th. Enter as often as you like. Post a comment right here on our blog for two entries, visit our Facebook pages, follow us on Twitter, and tweet about the contest once a day while it’s running! And check back here on April 26th to see if you are a lucky winner!

Happy spring . . . and happy reading!


(Please note, prize packs can only be shipped to a continental US or Canadian address. International winners will receive the books only, in e-book format.)

Photos and “ever-blooming” flowers from Gardener’s Supply Company (http://www.gardeners.com/)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Must reside in the US/CAN for print copies; if outside these countries ebooks only will be sent from the prize packs. You must be at least 13 years old to enter and if under 18 must have adult or guardian permission. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Google or any other entity other than the authors involved. Void where prohibited by law.