Welcome back to the Cade-Loveland extended family! Their 100+ year-old feud is finally over, the water rights dispute settled, and now they can live peacefully, right? Oh… if only it were that simple… Lots of drama still ahead for these strong, faithful and hardworking ranchers in the sixth book of my Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, a raw, complicated second chance love story with a dramatic plot twist you won’t forget!
“A Rancher to Remember by Karen Rock is a great book to get sucked into. Cassidy and Daryl have a great love story, one that can bring a person to tears. I am giving this book a five-star rating and recommending it to everyone that reads clean romances. I adored this story.”
“A Rancher to Remember boasts bursts of white-knuckle action, two hurting kids, and a potential second-chance romance soaked in grief and regrets. . . . If you enjoy steamy kisses, good folks, and healthy doses of conflict (and reconciliation) in your stories, A Rancher to Remember fits the bill! There’s never a dull moment with the Cade and Loveland crew and this is yet another entertaining addition to this series.”
Why had she come back to Carbondale?
It was a mystery Cassidy desperately wished to solve, not just for herself but for a grieving Daryl. She wanted to help her sister’s family pick up the pieces—an altruistic wish, nothing more. So why did her eyes follow handsome Daryl, then? “I know what a big heart your mama had.” Cassidy rubbed Emma’s arm. “How could she help but love you?”
Cassidy had come to love them as her own these past few weeks.
“Oh, I just love this series! . . . Daryl and Cassidy seemed so perfect for each other in some ways, yet polar opposites in others. I truly wasn’t sure how the author was going to pull this happily-ever-after off, but she did! I enjoyed reading this story from the first page to the last!”
“A Rancher to Remember was a heartbreaking read of love lost and found and of letting go even when it is too soon. . . . This story brings out a lot of emotions and it really digs deep to bring out the hopefulness and longing of what good could come out of this tragic outcome for this family. You might just want to have a few tissues ready.”
“I love how there are moments when each of the main characters react with extreme anger because that is how grief works. It doesn’t matter who you’re mad at; you’re just mad because the loss you experienced isn’t fair. Grief is hard work, and I think the author does a great job of showing us just how real these characters’ emotions are. The way that the story plays out is very believable as is the romance between the main characters. I really think you will love this book as well as the others in the Rocky Mountain Cowboys series.”
Daryl grinned and extended a hand to Cassidy. “Shall we?”
“I guess we must,” she said breathlessly as he swept her into his arms and slowly danced her around the crowded floor.
She smelled so good. He closed his eyes and breathed in the sweet scent rising from her neck. The way her small hand wrapped around his, the other resting on his shoulder, stirred his blood. His heart lifted. His spirit soared.
Euphoria.
“With her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series, Karen Rock has become one of my favorite authors in the Harlequin Heartwarming line of clean romances. . . . The characters and back stories of these two families are intricately woven and their “happily ever afters” are not easily won. Aside from the obvious cowboy attraction, what I like most is their humanness – weakness, pride, and misunderstandings, tempered with caring, sacrifice, kindness and love. . . . I recommend A Rancher to Remember, as well as the whole series, to all who enjoy a clean romance with character depth.”
“The reader is immediately swept up into Karen Rock’s romance, A Rancher to Remember, as Cassidy Fulton risks her life to expose corruption in the Philippines, and the intrigue continues as she struggles to attain the missing sections of her memory after returning to her hometown of Carbondale, Colorado.”
“Whenever I am re-visiting either the Cade’s or the Loveland’s, it doesn’t take long to notice how well-versed Ms Rock has become in writing these stories! Each new installment is an extension of the whole series. . . . This time round, I thought it was fitting we were swinging by the Loveland ranch. . . you might need to brace yourself to transition through a new set of adversities or incidents that might push your beloved characters to the edge of what they can personally handle. All with the joy of knowing that in the end, Rock will give her characters a fitting sense of resolution and will give us, the reader, a wicked good read!”
“A Rancher to Remember has everything you want and expect from a second chance romance. There’s grief, pain, restoration, romance (of course), kissing (swoon), and so much more. Both Cassidy and Daryl certainly have their flaws, but to be honest that just makes the story even better.”
“An emotional journey of forgiveness and redemption! With her signature way of wrapping a group of characters around our heart, Karen Rock brings us the next book in her Rocky Mountain Cowboys series. . . . Loved the raw emotions brought to the surface with this cast of characters!”
“I lovey lovey love this series! . . . It was a roller coaster of emotions and wow, did things end in a dramatic way! This book and it’s characters were completely different than any of the other books. It felt fresh and exciting. I loved it!”
“I really enjoyed the book. . . . I have enjoyed all the books in the series. I look forward to reading the next book. . .”
A couple of hours later, after finishing their witness statements, Daryl and Cassidy strode from the sheriff’s office.
“Thank you, Daryl,” she said once they hopped in his truck. “You saved my life.”
He cupped the side of her face, leaned close and brushed her lips with a heart-stopping kiss so brief she could have imagined it. Dreamed it. Maybe she had. If so, she didn’t want to wake from this adrenaline-fueled moment. Or lose it.
“This story had great characters (Cades and Loveland families), clean romance, funny, and some sad tragic life events that the characters had to work thru with faith and diligence.
I highly recommend this book and hope to read more from this series and author.”
“This book was truly heartwarming as we follow the two main characters as they work through their own issues individually and together. Noah and Emma (Daryl and Leanne’s kids) were just precious and the icing on the cake- there were so many adorable and lovely scenes with the two of them. I love the personal and romantic journeys in this book and highly recommend as a story of beautiful second-chance romance.”
“Y’all, Rock blew me away with this book. . . . A Rancher to Remember surprised me in the best kind of way with Rock’s ability to deliver solid stories with tough issues, family ties that are almost unbreakable, and lots of heated kisses for the romantic in her readers.”
“A Rancher to Remember is a story full of heart. Family, betrayal, second chances… It’s got a few surprises and plenty of great moments, and I enjoyed it all. “
“. . . this one does not disappoint. I loved Daryl and Cassidy’s story. I thought they were so sweet and fun together. I found their chemistry was undeniable. I had no problem to stay focused on the book and keep reading. I had it read from cover to cover in one day. . . . Great book!”
A Rancher to RememberBy Karen Rock
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
April 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming
They can’t change the past…
but they can choose their future
Globe-trotting journalist Cassidy Fulton is back in Carbondale, Colorado. Only she can’t remember why—or the accident that killed her estranged sister. Helping her piece together this mystery is her brother-in-law and former fiancé, Daryl Loveland. Overcoming their grief seems impossible. Yet one thing is clear: Cassidy can’t imagine her life without Daryl or her adorable niece and nephew. But can the ranch ever really be her home?
Award-winning author Karen Rock is both sweet and spicy—at least when it comes to her writing! The author of both YA and adult contemporary books writes sexy suspense novels and small-town romances for Harlequin and Kensington publishing. A strong believer in Happily-Ever-After, Karen loves creating unforgettable stories that leave her readers with a smile. When she’s not writing, Karen is an avid reader who also loves cooking her grandmother’s Italian recipes, baking and having the Adirondack Park wilderness as her backyard, where she lives with her husband, daughter, dog and cat who keep her life interesting and complete. Learn more about her at http://www.karenrock.com or follow her on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/karenrock5.
– 1 winner will receive signed, print copies of the first five books in the Rocky Mountain Cowboys series (Christmas at Cade Ranch, Falling for a Cowboy, Bad Boy Rancher, A Cowboy’s Pride & Winning the Cowboy’s Heart) – US Only
– Ends April 10, 2019
What is your motivation behind The Certain Hope? Why did you want to write it?
The Certain Hope is the third book in the standalone hope-themed series. Book three highlights thirty-something love, which can be as precarious as younger love. By that age, we’ve weathered numerous life storms. Living life can, and often does, alter our opinions, circumstances and outlook.
The doorbell chimed what she termed his signature ring: one long peal, followed by two shorter ones. Saying goodbye might ruin her. Hair patted into place, she opened the door with an unsteady hand.
Andy leaned on the rail, watching the door fling open. The six men who worked with him stood at his side. Silence reigned. They stood there, grinning at her.
Tara couldn’t resist returning the smiles. Their noisy camaraderie while they worked would be missed.
The house needed only a minor overhaul. He was the man for the task if he was able to buy the place. Luke enjoyed restoring old houses. Especially one he hoped to make his own. As he’d climbed the steps, he was assessing the fair market value.
Then Tara had opened the door.
Luke had fallen in love on sight.
“So you prefer dating a man who works at McDonald’s?” Marcie asked.
Mindy laughed until she coughed.
Giggles erupted around the table.
“Tara would if his name was Andy,” Mindy finally said.
Tara batted dream-filled eyes. “I love a man I’ll never see again.” She paused, eyeing Mindy. “Honest enough for you?”
Tara’s hopeful nonchalance intrigued Luke more than it ever had. He’d finally found his sassy, laidback lady that would love him. She was a snappy work of art he couldn’t resist. Her projected innocence snagged him the first time they met.
Things are moving in the right direction. How do I bring my lovely lady along for the journey?
Before long, Olivia took a much-needed breath. The lull in the conversation reminded him about the other people in the room. He leaned his mouth close to Tara’s ear while speaking in a stage voice.
“The Certain Hope is a story of love at first sight and I really enjoyed it. . . . This was a unique story that showed the positives and negatives of falling in love so quickly and throws in a few surprise twists as well. This was my first book by author Jackson and I look forward to more of her stories.”
“Your sad eyes don’t sway me.” Her hip butted him out the way. “It’s too late to show remorse. You set me up.”
Luke raised three fingers. “Scout’s honor. I had no expectations either way. The choice was always yours.” His voice softened as his gaze caressed her face. “Beautiful as always.”
Tara steeled herself against the compliment. Real facts deserved more than a passing remark that missed the point.
“Overall, I did enjoy the story. For me, Luke’s personality caused me to want to keep reading, because I wanted to find out what happens with the two. . . . And I feel Ms. Jackson does an excellent job of weaving the issues together so the plot runs so smooth. This is the second book I’ve read from Ms. Jackson, and I enjoy her writing. So I encourage you to check out The Certain Hope as well as other books by this author.”
“…there are stories of love-at-first-sight marriages that are going strong, so even if it’s not your reality, it is entertaining. And may also serve as a cautionary tale to not jump into anything too quickly, especially if the people you trust are conflicted about your decision. And through it all, I was cheering for Tara’s happily-ever-after.”
“Should you read it? YES! I still recommend it, especially if you love a good romance. I am actually really interested in reading some of the authors other works as I did enjoy it overall.”
The vase received a place of honor above the fireplace while the open chocolate box tempted them on the cocktail table. A faint disinfectant scent lingered in the air. Luke always found a faultless house when he visited. It was the perfect backdrop for his prim and proper miss. “Are you a true neat freak, or will stuff drop on my head if I open a closet door? I vote neat freak.”
“We’re simpatico. Guests can eat off your floors.” Tara nestled into the arm Luke draped around her shoulder. “Mmm. I like sitting close to you. How was your day?”
“It’s over. I’d rather discuss us.”
This family has a fixation with that woman. “I’m a free man. I can date whomever I choose.”
“The grapevine says she’ll arrive in St. Louis on Friday. A month earlier than planned. Guess she didn’t accept your answer.”
Luke chuckled. “Now she knows that proposing to a disinterested man has consequences. Besides, holding false expectations is a character flaw I hate.”
“. . . an entertaining read if you enjoy romance. . . . better suited to those who like Insta-love, since that’s basically the premise of the relationship. It’s a Lifetime movie in print.”
Tara joined the line of cars headed from the park. Her haggard brain was ready for a nap. Approximately fifty buses stood between her car and the road home. She drummed her fingers on the steering wheel, instead of succumbing to what she really desired to do. Her mind hankered to blow the horn until reaching Kingshighway. Sort of a celebration cheer and “get out of the way” rant combined in one.
The relaxing evening she imagined with Luke fueled her determination to hurry home. Next on the agenda was a marvelous dinner. The legwork was prepared that morning. She only had to pop the casserole into the oven and prepare a salad.
“The Certain Hope is a story of hope, love and faith. . . . I am giving The Certain Hope five plus stars. I recommend it for readers who love a beautifully, well written and clean stories. I believe it is a must read and I highly recommend it. I would love to read more like this one by EC Jackson in the future.”
While drying dishes, Tara jumped as soap suds hit her face. She spun around when Luke laughed, right before lobbing another soap ball at her. She ducked. Only trickles of water dusted her hair.
Her reflexes immediately kicked in. The water pitcher was in her hand before thinking better of her next move. The shock on Luke’s face stilled her hand. He was soaked. Water slid from his hair, and over his body, until it streamed across the floor.
“Oops! Blame yourself and not me,” she yelled, charging past him.
The Certain Hope
(Hope Series #3)
By E. C. Jackson
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 318 Pages
December 5th 2018
Love at first sight. It’s every girl’s dream. But Tara Simpkins is finding out it’s not as easy as it seems. Is this truly the man God sent to be her husband, or is she just desperate to escape her loneliness? The recent loss of both parents has left her reeling, and close friends don’t think she’s in any position to make major life decisions. She and her new-found love are convinced they can live happily ever after in the home of their dreams. His family thinks he’s moving way too fast and might disappoint the kind-hearted woman he’s fallen head over heels for. And then there’s Leah. Leah is supposed to be part of his past, but what if she decides she’s his future? Tara’s match made in Heaven may be over before it truly begins.
Other Books in the Series
About the Author
…Pajama Party is adapted from a play I wrote many years ago. I hope you enjoy the peek inside the lives of nine girls who stole my heart. My prayer is that they steal your heart as well.
— E. C.
“…the concept was great. What if we all had taken the initiative and time to evaluate our friendships and had the courage to change them for the better when we were young? . . . When the story is over, readers of all ages will be challenged to examine friendships and determine whether they are uplifting or harmful.”
“Real issues are discussed and dealt with, but all is done within the context of the Bible and a Christian worldview. For that fact alone, I am eternally grateful. . . . this is a book that would definitely appeal to teenage girls, especially those from around 13-16. . . . the most important thing about the book is its message which came across quite clearly.”
Karen left the room and plodded up the stairs. She stopped outside her parents’ bedroom at the far end of the hall. Quickly knocking on the double door, she entered the room without an invitation.
“I’m home, Mom. Diane is changing clothes in the guest bedroom.”
Annette Duncan replaced the telephone receiver on the hook before looking up. “Good. I just talked to your grandmother. She sends her love and good wishes for your party tonight.”
Her friend leaned against her. “You know that Lisa constantly picks on me. Tonight, I’ll be stuck in this room while everyone laughs at her jokes. I think about her insults long after they stop.”
“That won’t happen this time. Lisa’s already promised to behave herself tonight.”
Surprise sprang into Diane’s eyes as she pulled away from Karen. “Oh no!” She moved across the room until she stood inside the doorway. “Why did you discuss me with Lisa? Everyone will think I cry to you for help.”
Speechless, Karen searched for the right words. She’d never seen Diane upset before. Was telling Lisa to behave herself the wrong thing to do? I was trying to make it go easier for Diane…
“If you have a teenage girl, this book would be a great read for her. Though it’s a great read for any age, teenage girls will be able to relate to what is going on with this crowd! The book is fun, entertaining, and just what you think it would be with this many girls in one house together! The characters are realistic, I felt as though I was in that house with them! I want to encourage you to check out this book for yourself, as well as any teenage girl you may know.”
Oh well. Too late to tune out now. I might as well listen. Karen watched the girls lug their sleepover gear to the steps. For once, their nonstop chatter had been abandoned. But having their hands filled with stuff failed to explain their subdued behavior. Unless …
Joann broke the silence after she reached the steps. The five-six, raven-haired, blue-eyed beauty towered over the other girls. “I don’t see Angela’s or Linda’s cars. Good. I’m glad we’re the first ones here.”
“Too bad, we’re not. Diane Meredith went home with Karen after school today,” said Lisa.
Her pouty speech concerned Karen. She pressed her forehead onto the glass as she remembered her promise to Diane. Lisa was still upset about seeing Diane and Karen walking home together after school. She acted awful whenever she became angry.
“Within the first couple chapters, I was hooked. I found this quick story to be inspiring with an element of faith, hope and the power of forgiveness. . . . I recommend it, especially for preteen and young teenage readers. They would definitely relate with the characters and what they are going through. Many readers would learn some very important lessons.”
“I didn’t know that. At first, Karen seemed snooty when I met her. She’s cool. But her friends act weird. Today they were complaining because she only invited three of them tonight. Why did she include you and me but leave them out? Have they always been buddies?”
“Of the girls invited, four of us started kindergarten together. Angela was in second grade. Joann, Kathy, and Diane came to Jefferson Middle in sixth grade. The rest of the group came in seventh grade. Why are you frowning?”
“It’s because you all grew up together but barely talk to each other. I’ve only seen Diane with Karen. Their group is hard to figure out. I used to think they hated each other until I saw them away from school. I’ve spotted them around town, but Karen is never with them.”
“Well, you know how Lisa and Diane react to each other, but Lisa’s argument with Evette surprised me. I know,” she said when Sandy did a double take. “The entire scene was unbelievable to watch. There’s more to Evette than we suspected.”
Angela raised her eyebrows. “Did Evette and Lisa argue about something specific? What set it off?”
“I told you she was a paradox.” Karen looked at her as if that comment answered the question.
“Yeah, I had to look up the word to refresh my memory. It isn’t a word that I use every day. I don’t see how the definition fits Evette.”
In your new book; PAJAMA PARTY: THE STORY, can you tell my Book Nerd community a little about it.
With a guest list certain to create conflicts and plenty of drama, the pajama party served a higher purpose than the hostess ever imagined. All Karen wanted was an opportunity to live the life she had enjoyed before seventh grade. Was it an achievable ambition? Maybe. That was the year she abandoned many true friends for some artificial ones. She’s now older and wiser, but she also has a new host of problems she’d never imagined.
Eight other girls embark on the same roller-coaster ride. From the time of their arrival, preconceived notions, false assumptions, selfishness, and self-doubt surface with each interaction. Do the girls know one another as well as each one believes? Or will they learn secrets and uncover unknown truths, even about themselves?
The stakes are high as the teens face a variety of challenges throughout the night.
Although it was freezing outside, Karen wanted to move the conversation onto the front porch. She hated that the girls were huddled in the foyer. Her mother and sister sat on the top step. They’d listened to every word so far. Annette stared at her. She probably thought about what had happened to Karen last May.
Stop worrying about me, Mom. I’m fine. That will never happen to me again.
Pajama Party: The Story
By E. C. Jackson
YA Christian Contemporary
Paperback & ebook, 213 Pages
August 26th 2017 by E. C. Jackson
Most sleepovers are simple. Food, fun, and pillow fights. But sixteen-year-old Karen Duncan has bigger plans for her slumber party. Family troubles have changed her over the past year, and she’s no longer the petty, selfish girl she used to be. Now she’s ready to shake things up with her friends. The guest list comes as a surprise to some and a slap in the face to others. This popular girl has invited some not-so-popular guests. Even more shocking, she’s left out some of the girls she’s hung out with since middle school.
Diane and Evette are outsiders, nervous about being stuck in a house with the same girls who tease them at school. Kathy, Lisa, and Joann come to the party with the confidence of the in-crowd, but they’re masking inner-turmoil that is bound to surface. Sandy and Angela are usually the voices of reason…usually. And then there’s Linda, the friend that got away. She may not ever forgive the girls who abandoned her years ago. Karen hopes to change her mind.
Her agenda is ambitious, and it could spell disaster. But Karen is convinced God will use this party to spark a new beginning for everyone involved. This companion book to A Living Hope gives us the inspired story Sadie Cummings wrote for the girls of Shiatown.
About the Author
will find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, and the giveaway below:
Find SECRET LIFE: Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo
Follow the Author: Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Instagram│BookBub│Newsletter
Courtside Crush
By Kayla Tirrell
February 12th 2019
So much for senior year being the best part of high school.
It all started when I caught my boyfriend cheating on me.
I did what any girl would do—I got revenge. Of course, it didn’t stop there. Thanks to a condemning video, I also got eight weeks of community service and athletic probation right before basketball season is supposed to start. (There goes my spot as captain!)
Thankfully, there’s a guy at Marlowe Junction’s Helping Hands who makes passing the time more enjoyable. He’s gorgeous, funny, and a huge basketball fan.
Too bad he’s also my brother’s biggest enemy…
Courtside Crush is a modern-day retelling of Romeo and Juliet, perfect for anyone who likes their sweet romance with a dash of drama. It is the first book in the Varsity Girlfriends series.
Kayla has loved to read as long as she can remember. While she started out reading spooky stories that had her hiding under her covers, she now prefers stories with a bit more kissing.
When she gets a chance to watch TV, she enjoys cheesy sci-fi and superhero shows.
Most days, you’ll catch her burning dinner in an attempt to cook while reading just one more chapter.
Kayla lives in the sunshine state with her husband and three boys.
February 12th: Maggie Dallen – Love at First Fight
February 13th: Robin Daniels – Perfectly You
February 14th: Bria Quinlan – Secret Girlfriend & Secret Life
February 15th: Kayla Tirrell – Courtside Crush
Perfectly You
By Robin Daniels
September 1, 2017
Ivy Nixon is the student body Vice President at Franklin High School. Each year, the school holds a date auction to raise funds for the senior class graduation party, and this year, Ivy’s in charge. Planning the event is a huge task and Ivy is determined to prove she can get the job done right. Unfortunately, she’s still one participant short and her deadline is looming.
Andy Walker, her cute but socially reclusive art class table mate, is her last resort. He may not be popular, but he’s funny, talented, and full of surprises. With a makeover and some major social marketing, Ivy is sure he could fetch a decent price at the auction.
Andy reluctantly agrees to help, but the more time Ivy spends with him, the more her feelings shift from professional to romantic in nature. To top it off, she’s done her marketing so well, that other girls are starting to notice Andy too. Come auction time, will Ivy be able to let him go to the highest bidder? Or will she find a way to keep him for herself…
February 12th: Maggie Dallen – Love at First Fight
February 13th: Robin Daniels – Perfectly You
February 14th: Bria Quinlan – Secret Girlfriend & Secret Life
February 15th: Kayla Tirrell – Courtside Crush
Love at First Fight
By Maggie Dallen
January 13th 2019
Band Geek vs Quarterback…
One humiliating photo, a stupid prank, and a hashtag that goes viral. That’s how my senior year goes from predictable to absurd in a heartbeat. This year is supposed to be easy. I’ve finally scored first chair in band, my college applications are done, and all my friends and I have to do is survive one more year of high school before our real lives can begin. Instead, I find myself in trouble with the principal, humiliated in front of the entire school, and fighting with my neighbor—AKA star quarterback, Prince Charming, and nicest guy on the planet.
And that’s just on the first day back at school. Trust me, it only gets worse from there. As #GeeksGoneWild trends on social media, my friends and I are the targets of an online witch hunt. But they’ve picked on the wrong people and retaliation is severe. As the tension escalates, it soon becomes clear that someone needs to step up and put an end to this nonsense. If that means playing nice with the quarterback, I guess that’s what I have to do. Now if someone could please tell my heart that this new friendship is just for show. And the kisses…oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don’t mean a thing.
February 12th: Maggie Dallen – Love at First Fight
February 13th: Robin Daniels – Perfectly You
February 14th: Bria Quinlan – Secret Girlfriend & Secret Life
February 15th: Kayla Tirrell – Courtside Crush
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:
Launch – Note from the Author
Don’t forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven’t already…
An Alaskan Proposal
(Northern Lights #4)
By Beth Carpenter
Contemporary Romance
Can he teach her survival skills—
without endangering his heart?
When Sabrina Bell taps Leith Jordan for a crash course in conquering the great Alaskan outdoors, he figures he’s on safe ground. They’re polar opposites and his spectacular home state’s just a pit stop for the hotshot fashionista. So no one’s more surprised than Leith when he starts falling for her. Now he’s a man with a plan: get Sabrina to fall in love with Alaska…and, hopefully, with him.
when Beth Carpenter was a little girl, she read everything she could get her hands on, and entertained herself on the school bus by making up stories in her head. Not a lot has changed. She’s still consuming books like M&Ms, and spends her days creating happily-ever-afters for her imaginary friends.
Ends January 30, 2019
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I am *so* thrilled to be kicking off the Stuck (Stitch Trilogy, Book 3) tour! We’ve got lots of awesome stops planned with exclusive Stitch Trilogy content you won’t find anywhere else, plus a big giveaway to celebrate the arrival of the long-awaited conclusion of the series!…
A Tale of Three Book Covers
Even a writer has to admit that (as the saying goes!) a picture is worth a thousand words. It comes as no surprise, then, that *almost* as much thought must go into cover design as into the book itself.
When designing the covers for the Stitch Trilogy books, I had several goals in mind:
Captivate: Of course, a cover needs to get readers interested, and one of the best ways to do that is to make it pretty!
Signal: The cover’s job is also, naturally, to give readers some clues as to what is in the story by referencing the genres and major plot points.
Unify: And, finally, knowing that this was going to be a multi-book series, I needed to come up with a consistent theme that would tie each cover together.
So how did I accomplish all this? By driving my cover designer crazy, of course! 🙂 …
2.) Tell us about the rest of the series.
Over the course of the trilogy, you join our protagonists as they uncover the sordid truth and dark history of their society, Paragon, a place set in a world much like our own but with some important (and chilling) differences. In fact, some members of this society are so blinded to the truth that they don’t even realize they are, in fact, living in Paragon… which is something you get to experience firsthand in Book 1. (Trying not to give away too many spoilers here!) In Book 2, we learn more about how this world came about, and in Book 3, the main characters struggle against nearly insurmountable odds to try to bring those responsible to justice. And of course, there’s some romance along the way!
Playlist: Music to Go with Stuck (Stitch Trilogy, Book 3)
It’s no secret that I love words (I am, after all, a writer). But sometimes, nothing captures a feeling *quite* like a song. So without further ado, here is a selection of hand-picked songs to go with several of the most pivotal chapters of Stuck (Stitch Trilogy, Book 3):…
Not a Bear
“But how can we continue to keep this from everyone?” Janie interjected. “It’s not right. They deserve to know!” she hissed.
Alessa shrugged in defeat.
Yes, she thought, just like Isaac deserves to know that his brother might still be alive – but she couldn’t bring herself to say anything about that, either, knowing the guilt would eat him alive. She at least had to be sure first. She had to know it was really Joe.
” I really liked the first two books in this series, and I waited 5 years between book 2 and this one. There was one point I know that I even reached out to the author to find out if this one was coming soon, because I needed to know what would happen next. . . . There was just so much going on in this book! . . . if you haven’t started the series yet, you are the lucky one to get to start with all three of them out now. You can sit down and read them all, back to back, and get all the feelings that will come with a good series.”
“I’ve waited a long time to read this last book in the Stitch Trilogy. I loved this series from the first book. It was so unique and had so many twists and turns that kept you reading. Guess what? Things haven’t changed in this third book: It’s still has so many unique things in the story line and the the twists just keep on coming. . . . If you like the Dystopian and Sci-Fi genres, you need to put the Stitch Trilogy on your To-Read list immediately.”
“There’s plenty of action, intrigue and betrayal. But there’s also bravery, romance and hope. . . . A perfect finale to a series that fueled my imagination and captured my heart.”
“This premise for a science fiction novel is so unique, and that truly drew me in. . . . I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a new upper YA or NA science fiction trilogy with a strong female main character.”
Happy Pills
“Seriously, Alex?”
Deion chuckled and shook his head at the sight of his best friend – shirtless, sweat gleaming off his abs – precisely positioned so that anyone passing by the construction site would get an eyeful of his chiseled physique.
“First of all, it’s only 50 degrees out –”
“58,” Alex argued, heaving another stone on top of the wall he was building for this set of Paragon’s latest drama. “That’s almost in the sixties.” He paused to swipe a dusty, rippling forearm across his brow, brushing the fringe of straight black hair from his striking, angular eyes, which were narrowed against the sun.
“It’s been a privilege to follow along with Samantha Durante since this trilogy first started! I felt a little woeful as I started to read Stuck, only because I knew that this was the end of my time with these characters. After completely falling in love with the last book, I knew that this finale was going to be a rough read for me either way. It’s the end of an era, really. It’s been fun! . . . If you haven’t started this trilogy yet, you’re in for such a treat. I envy you. I really do.
Is there anything you would like people to take away from your book?
There are SO MANY things I’d like people to take away from the Stitch Trilogy! First, that things aren’t black and white. Just like real life, no one in my books is infallible, and anyone can make a mistake that can really hurt other people – and this can happen on a small or very large scale, even with the noblest of intentions. Second, that anyone can make a difference. It would be easy for anyone living in that world (or any world!) to feel insignificant and powerless, but the characters work really hard and work together to make things better, and they manage to do so even against odds that seem insurmountable. Third, that inclusivity and diversity of thought are good things, especially when it comes to leadership – otherwise you’re almost certain to further exploit already marginalized groups, and foster a lot of ill-will. And finally, that love conquers all. At the end of the day, even (perhaps, especially) when the world has gone to hell, all we have is each other. Be selfless. Be brave. Be kind.
“Stuck is a phenomenal completion to a wonderfully complex, challenging, and heartfelt adventure. My heart jumped for joy when I found myself finally reading the last chapters of this brilliantly original and deeply captivating journey full of heart, hope, and love. . . . I have been looking forward to this elusive ending, and I found myself completely and totally satisfied in every way a story can offer. . . . Samantha Durante has once again left me in awe of the depth of her brilliant creativity and boundless heart.”
Quiz: Where Do You Rank in Paragon Society?
Over the course of the Stitch Trilogy, we’ve gotten to know several different groups within the society of Paragon, from plucky rebels and manipulated citizens to mastermind Engineers and bloodthirsty Stuck. Where do you fall amongst these ranks? Take this quick quiz to find out!…
1. What made you decide to be a writer?
I don’t know if it was a *decision* so much as a compulsion! I’ve always loved to write, ever since I was a kid. I got away from it for a few years in college and afterwards, but even as a software engineer, I managed to“sneak” writing into my job. So when it came time for a major life change (moving back across the country to be near my family), I knew it was a good time to see if I could shift gears and get back to doing what I’d always loved.
“If you love having your emotions ramped up to a fever pitch, if you love white knuckled reading, if you love apocalyptic/dystopian novels and are looking for an original storyline, you may want to grab the Stitch trilogy.”
Style in Dystopia: 3 Ways to Style a Jumpsuit
Dystopian societies aren’t often known for their embrace of individuality and free-thinking… which unfortunately means their fashion trends tend to lean towards the sterile and conformist, at best.
But don’t let that post-apocalyptic thinking get you down! As the characters of the Stitch Trilogy show, there are lots of ways you can buck the trend and give that old standard-issue jumpsuit a fresh spin…
Stuck
(Stitch Trilogy #3)
By Samantha Durante
YA Dystopian, SciFi
Paperback & ebook, 306 Pages
December 15, 2018
3, 2, 1… BOOM.
Things are finally looking up for the Resistance. Sure, Alessa is still processing the revelation that the best friend she’d presumed dead is miraculously alive, though far from well… And her boyfriend is being manipulated under threat of blackmail. But her quest for justice against those behind the systematic extermination of the world population is so close to victory she can taste it.
And then in a matter of seconds, everything Alessa believes in is shaken to the core. Months of preparation are obliterated. The people she cares for most are lost.
But Alessa is still standing. And Paragon must pay.
The odds are grim, but unexpected allies surface in the most unlikely of places: A new pair of citizens still under the colony’s rule who notice something amiss in the latest drama. An old adversary who realizes the error of her ways. And a veritable army of inhuman power and terrible strength, with an insatiable thirst for vengeance. The trustworthiness of each of these factions is yet to be proven, but without many other options, Alessa may have to take what she can get. Especially since the Engineers, never to be outdone, also have a few more tricks up their sleeves…
The long-awaited final installment in the riveting Stitch Trilogy, Stuck will have readers gripping their seats as Alessa and a handful of intrepid survivors usher their harrowing journey to a close, risking everything as they endeavor – once and for all – to set things right.
Other Books in the Series
Samantha lives in Westchester County, New York with four of the five loves of her life – her husband, son, younger daughter, and cat – and carries her fifth love, her stillborn daughter, in her heart. An avid reader herself, Samantha’s dream is to bring the same delight to readers that other authors have brought to her life. In addition to penning novels and writing candidly about grief, she is also a sometimes freelance writer/consultant – though more often than not these days she’s on full-time mom duty! A former software engineer, Samantha said goodbye to the corporate world in 2010 to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams and lifelong love of writing. Learn more at www.samanthadurante.com.
Dream Of Me This Christmas Eve
(Star Light ~ Star Bright #4)
By L.A. Sartor
Contemporary Romance, Christmas
ebook, 127 Pages
December 1st 2018
Boulder, Colorado, attorney Maximillian Henderson III is in a bind. His new law office won’t open on schedule unless he finds immediate help to finalize his building’s renovation.
Award-winning designer Caroline Young is visiting Boulder for a family wedding and has promised to stay through Christmas. Meeting Max at the wedding and hearing his problem, she accepts his plea for help. But if she can make him see past his own nose, she could make it even better.
Creating a new design only works if she commits to staying longer. By doing so, she puts her heart and her treasured independence at risk.
Max is aware her life and business are in California, and a long-term relationship is impractical. Still she adds vibrancy to his plain black and white world, and his dream of her on Christmas Eve convinces him to try.
On Christmas Day, Caro reveals that she must return home for a vital meeting, breaking her promise and his heart.
Max has new plans for his office but no Caro. Can he convince her to return to him and find a way to meld their lives?
Excerpt
Other Books in the Series
About the Author
I started writing as a child, really. A few things happened on the way to becoming a published author … a junior high school teacher who told me I couldn’t write because I didn’t want to study … urk … grammar. I went to college, moved a few times, came home and found the love of my life (that is another novel worthy story, but for later), and got married.
We were super busy with our respective careers, mine a custom jewelry business with my mom, who was also teaching metalsmithing at the time, and my husband a crazy law career. We had two fur babies, Fudge (and briefly her brother Smudge, but sadly he didn’t live very long) and Two. Our cats would sleep with us and when they’d stretch out to their full length, we’d end up sleeping on the edge of the mattress.
I have always been a voracious reader and one night after throwing a particularly bad book at the wall (even putting a small ding in said wall), I realized that I could do better. I told my husband, and he said go for it. I called Mom and she revealed the junior high teacher story and she told I’d been writing all the time up to that point.
That blew me away. I didn’t remember any of it. But I started writing again, nearly the next day, pen and paper, learning, making mistakes, winning contests, nearly getting an agent, becoming disenchanted with the publishing industry and moving away from novel writing to screenwriting, getting a contract for a script and doing really well in screenwriting contests.
But none of that was making me much money. After numerous scary robbery drills I wanted to move away from my bank job (yes, this is many years later and a lot of stuff in between) and write full time for the green stuff.
My husband told me repeatedly that independent publishing was becoming a valid way to publish a novel and people were making big dollars. I didn’t believe him even after he showed me several Wall Street Journal articles. I thought indie meant vanity press.
I couldn’t have been more wrong.
I started pursuing this direction seriously, retired from the bank and hit the keyboard, learned a litany of new things and published my first novel. My second book became a bestseller, and while I’m not rolling in dough, I’m absolutely on the right course in my life.
So if you have a dream, pursue it as hard as you can. Life can get in the way, but never give up.
Please come visit me at www.lasartor.com, see my books, some pictures, some screenplays and sign up for my mailing list. I have a gift I’ve specifically created for my new email subscribers. And remember, you can email me at [email protected].
