Blind Date with a Book Event with Jennifer Blackwood

Jennifer Blackwood is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

Feature and Giveaway: Falling for the Fake Fiance by Jennifer Blackwood

Jill Michaels prides herself on one thing: being independent. That is until her daughter gets into an elite school, and she needs money more than ever. It seems her fairy godmother—aka her deceased Grammy—has granted that wish in the form of one-fourth of her estate. The only catch? She must be married by her thirtieth birthday. In two months.

Aaron Collins is fresh out of the army and back in town to help his father's failing business. When he runs into Jill at a hotel where she's attending a single's mixer, he makes sure she doesn't make it past his room and into another guy's arms. When he hears about her predicament, he has a plan: they'll get married and keep it a secret. And maybe have a little sexy fun until he leave towns for his new job.

But letting go of the woman of his dreams may be harder than Aaron could have ever imagined.

Purchase: | Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo |

My Favorite Things Event with Jennifer Blackwood

Jennifer Blackwood is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

ARC Review: The Rule Maker by Jennifer Blackwood

I really enjoyed the first book in the Rule Breakers series by Jennifer Blackwood and I was looking forward to reading the next in the series, The Rule Maker. Each book is a standalone story that is easily read on its own. While I did enjoy this one at times, I liked The Rule Book better than The Rule Maker. This story was a light and easy read, if a bit predictable. 

Zoey is thrilled to get another project doing work for Jason Covington. But when she finds out that instead of working with Jason directly she will be working with his brother Ryder, she is anything but thrilled. Zoey and Ryder had a one night stand, with him leaving the next day without so much as a backwards glance. But after a horrible snowboarding accident, he has agreed to help his brother out. While things don't start of the best, Zoey and Ryder quickly find themselves drawn to each other once again. 

I have to say that part of what kept me from really loving this book was Zoey and Ryder. Both had moments of immaturity that had me questioning their ages. They would do, say or think childish things and that had me struggling here. Maybe this is an age thing myself, but the older I get the less tolerance I have for it. These characters are out of college and should be acting as adults, and yet at times they didn't appear that way at all. I felt like Zoey was too hung up on her rules at times, and having read the first book she seemed a bit too like Lainey. I also wish things had been different in regard to their one night stand. That kind of soured me on the relationship from the start, especially since some is left unclear and Ryder's intentions make it hard to get behind him as a hero. These two had obvious chemistry and a growing connection, but I just found it hard to relate to them or feel fully invested with everything we were given.

I think that this one was a good read, but it wasn't one that I would remember long term. Zoey and Ryder had chemistry, but I felt like their relationship took quite a bit of time to happen and started on a sour note with the way Ryder never intended to see her again. He knew her and the type of girl she was, and he had never planned on pursuing her at all. By the time he came around I wasn't fully able to believe it and then things were wrapped up a bit to easy and cheesy for me. While I appreciate a sweet ending, this one was a bit too much for me. I think that a lot of readers will really enjoy this one, but for me it was just okay and wasn't my favorite of what I have read from Jennifer Blackwood.

**ARC Provided by Publisher**

Purchase: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N | iTunes | 

Naughty New Year Event with Jennifer Blackwood

Jennifer Blackwood is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

ARC Review: Landing the Air Marshal by Jennifer Blackwood

I really enjoyed Landing the Air Marshal by Jennifer Blackwood. From the moment I started this book, I was hooked. Jennifer Blackwood has a way with words and I couldn't put this one down. If you are looking for a great contemporary story that will keep you entertained from start to finish, look no further.

Heading to NY to scout a location for her company's newest project, flying is a necessary evil for Abby. But when sexy stranger Gabe sits down next to her, Abby knows that even though he is a nice distraction to look at, he is a distraction that she can't afford. Gabe can't help but feel drawn to Abby, but he also prides himself on remaining professional, even if he is off duty when he meets Abby. But what starts out as one night together quickly turns into more when the weather prevents them from going their separate ways. But can these two possibly find more together when they live on opposite sides of the country and have so little in common?

I really liked Gage and Abby. They had great chemistry from the start, and you could feel the sparks flying right from the minute they met. I loved them together and thought that they were really good for one another. I will let you know ahead of time that there is definitely a case of insta-love here, and I know that can be tricky for some readers. But I felt like it worked here for these two, and there was enough emotion and sweetness mixed in with the sexy times that it felt natural to me.  

Overall, this was a light and easy fun read. I enjoyed the story a lot, and it was fast paced, keeping me flipping pages until I had finished the entire book in one sitting. I definitely recommend it if you are looking for a romance that has a bit of everything. Jennifer Blackwood is a great writer, and Landing the Air Marshal was everything I have come to expect from her. Highly enjoyable story, and I cannot wait to see what she writes next!

**ARC Provided by Publisher**

Purchase: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N | iTunes | 

Feature and Giveaway: Landing the Air Marshal by Jennifer Blackwood

It was meant to be a one-night stand. One wicked night with an irresistibly sexy passenger. That’s all Air Marshal Gage Michaels can afford–his career comes before everything else. Too bad the snowpocalpyse of the century has different plans for him and Abby Winters. Before the night’s over, they find themselves snowed in at the most luxurious hotel in the city.Abby’s scouting job of a NYC penthouse should be quick, simple, and definitely shouldn’t include a sexy-as-hell man messing up the 3000 count sheets that will be featured in her company’s next blockbuster hit. Not when she’s up for a promotion that could skyrocket her entire career in the film industry. Still, she can’t refuse what the weather gods so obviously want her to have. She’ll give in, just this once.

Leaving is tougher than either of them could have imagined. But they’re two people who have nothing in common, living on opposite coasts. There’s no way they can ever be together. Right?

Purchase: | Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo |

ARC Review: The Rule Book by Jennifer Blackwood

I knew I had to read this book when I first saw the blurb! Between the blurb and the cover, it was like this book was just calling my name. As soon as I started reading though, I knew that The Rule Book by Jennifer Blackwood was going to be more than just a pretty cover and clever blurb. I had a really great time reading this one, and it was just one of those books that you find yourself lost in while the world sort of slips away around you. 

When Lainey Taylor takes a job at Starr Media, she finds herself with a rule book filled with things that absolutely aren't allowed. Among those though are don't call your boss the Antichrist and definitely don't fall for him no matter how hot he may be. But the more Lainey gets to know Brogan Starr, the more she finds herself struggling to follow his many rules. But with Lainey needing to help support her sick mom she knows that she needs to do whatever it takes to keep her job, even if that means fighting the growing connection between her and Brogan.

I liked Brogan and Lainey a lot. They had so much chemistry right away, and I really enjoyed their banter. This story was witty and funny, and I loved the interactions between these two. Brogan had a ton of rules and at first he was sort of hard to warm up to, but as the story continued I really liked seeing how he and Lainey got to know one another and grew closer. I liked Lainey and I really admired her taking care of her mother. You could tell how close they were and I liked that family was so important to her. While I liked these two, I will say that I did wish that there had more steam. There was a lot of chemistry and tension, yet there wasn't a lot of follow through. 

The other thing that I will say is that while this one was witty and funny, there were times that it came off a bit choppy. It sort of took me out of the story and romance a bit, even though I did enjoy most of it. I think that this book is one that NA and Contemporary fans will enjoy though, and if you are enjoy rom-coms, this is definitely one worth checking out. I know I will read more from Jennifer Blackwood in the future, and I look forward to seeing what she writes next.

**ARC Provided by Publisher**

Purchase: | Amazon | Kindle | B&N | iTunes | 

May Embrace Release Blast with Jennifer Blackwood and Shae Ross

Welcome to the endless possibilities of New Adult fiction. Let us Embrace you with swoon-worthy heroes, butt-kicking heroines, contemporary issues, intrigue, fantasy, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, paranormal adventures, and everything in between. All entangled with a heavy dose of romance, be it sexy or sweet. Let Embrace usher you from the halls of high school graduation and into the wide open world beyond... To find out more about their titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books you’ll be coveting next, visit the Entangled website, follow them on Twitter, LIKE their Facebook page, and check them out on Instagram.

Today I'm happy to be featuring Embrace's May releases:

The Rule Book by Jennifer Blackwood

Jennifer Blackwood is an English teacher and contemporary romance author. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

Starr Media Second-Assistant Survival Guide

1. Don't call your hot boss the antichrist to his face.

2. Don't stare at hot boss's, um, package or his full sleeve of tattoos. (No. Really. Stop!)

3. Don't get on the malicious first assistant's bad side.

4. Don't forget to memorize the 300-page employee manual.

5. If you value your cashmere, steer clear of boss’s dog.

6. Boss’s dimples are lust-inducing. Do. Not. Give. In.

7. “The elevator ate your clothes” is not a valid excuse for showing up to important meetings half dressed.

8. Don't break seven of the rules within the first week of employment if you, ya know, are in dire need of money to support your sick mom.

9. Whatever you do, don’t fall for the boss. See rule eight about sick mom.

10. Never forget the rules.

Purchase: | Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo |

Rush by Shae Ross

Shae Ross was born and raised in Ferndale, Michigan. After graduating high school, Ms. Ross attended Michigan State University and continued her education at Detroit College of Law. Prior to 2014, she spent the majority of her career practicing corporate law, running a successful business and engaged in entrepreneurial ventures.

After having one too many stressful days at the office, Ms. Ross began to consider pursuing her lifelong dream of writing. Armed with an English degree, an interest in historical settings and a huge collection of romance novels, Ms. Ross put pen to paper and began converting the characters in her head to ink. She soon found herself happily immersed in a new working world that included heroes and heroines, agents and editors, and a multitude of secondary characters.

Ms. Ross’ debut novel, PRETTY SMART GIRLS – LACE UP released in January of 2015. The second book in the series, PRETTY SMART GIRLS – FEARLESS will release August 18th of 2015. She currently writes in the new adult and contemporary romance genres and lives with her husband and three children in Holt, Michigan.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

College Quarterback Preston Rush is living the dream. He’s leading his team to the National Championship and days away from earning a ‘first round draft pick’ label. When he meets Little Bo Peep at a Halloween party, he thinks he’s scored big. Instead, he wakes up in a jail cell with the corseted beauty. Because of him, she’s in trouble and when he discovers her true identity, he realizes, his nightmare is just beginning.

The always shooting-for-perfection Priscilla Winslow can’t believe her good deed has cost her a soccer career. Even though she knows it isn’t Preston’s fault, she can’t forgive him for the disaster that is her life. She just wishes her damn body would get the message. Every time she sees him, it’s all she can do not to kiss him.

When everything crashes down around him, Preston will have to decide if doing the right thing is worth losing it all.

Purchase: | Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo |

RFTC I've Got a Secret Event with Author Jennifer Blackwood

Jennifer Blackwood is an English teacher and contemporary romance author. She lives in Oregon with her husband, son, and poorly behaved black lab puppy. When not chasing after her toddler, you can find her binging on episodes of Gilmore Girls and Supernatural, and locking herself in her office to write.

| Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |

ARC Review: '90s Playlist by Brighton Walsh, Lorelie Brown, Amy Jo Cousins, Audra North, Rebecca Grace Allen and Jennifer Blackwood

I'm not too big on anthologies because of the length of the stories. I really wanted to give this one a shot though after reading which authors were a part of this one though. I have to say that these felt even shorter than most stories in anthologies though since there were six here. I really loved the '90s concept though, as I am a huge fan of all things '90s. It was great to see some things here that I hadn't thought about in forever, and I really enjoyed seeing all the different music referenced here. I will admit that I definitely had to listen to some of them as I read these. 

My Strongest Weakness-Brighton Walsh

Mason is the typical All-American Jock and Tia is his exact opposite, the goth girl. Yet despite their differences, they find themselves drawn together in a way they aren't with anyone else. They live by a set of rules to keep others from finding out what is going on between them, but before long real feelings are starting to develop and Tia wants more. But is Mason willing to risk everything by letting others see how he really feels about her? 

I really liked this short story from Brighton Walsh. I always enjoy her books, and she proved to me what a talented writer she was here with this one being so quick of a read. I was really surprised with the amount of depth and feeling she was able to show here between Mason and Tia, and I really felt like these two were it for each other. They were really sexy together, and I liked seeing them get to know one another better too. My only complaint here is that even though this was really great for being so short, I would have loved more. This opposites attract story was romantic and emotional, and I enjoyed it a lot. 

Creep-Lorelie Brown

Roni and Tom meet when Tom shows up at the shop where Roni works looking for his brother Corey. Roni knows Corey as her drug dealer Skittles, and is reluctant to give information to Tom. She is attracted to Tom though, and gives him some information on where he might run into Corey/Skittles. The attraction between Roni and Tom is instant, and she finds herself drawn to him.   

This one was flat out confusing, and it didn't really go anywhere or explain anything. It made no sense to me and ended right where the story seemed to start. I have no idea if this story is continued anywhere by Lorelie Brown, or if this is all there is. The whole thing with Roni and Tom didn't work for me, and I didn't feel like they had any connection at all. It was too instant, and honestly just seemed out of nowhere. The situation with Tom and Corey/Skittles was never briefly and partially explained, but it was never resolved. If this one hadn't been so short, I would have ended up not finishing. I also hated how casual the use of drugs was here, and the fact that pretty much everyone seemed to be okay with it. This one was a miss for me. 

The Belle vs. The BDOC-Amy Jo Cousins

Shelby wants Florence, but Florence is convinced that Shelby is straight. So Shelby sets out to make Florence notice her and finally realize that she is also a lesbian. But what starts out as Shelby putting together a team to beat Florence on trivia night quickly escalates, and soon Shelby and Florence are not only competing at trivia. But can Shelby show Florence that she wants more than to just beat her?

This was one that I just couldn't connect with at all. I don't read a lot of F/F stories, but I don't have anything against them. For me though, I wasn't really feeling the connection between Florence and Shelby here. Florence was super judgmental, and flat out awful to Shelby at times. I didn't understand why Shelby would continue to want her after everything. I just didn't really care for the characters or the story here, and this was another case of it being just short enough that I was able to finish. 

Worthwhile-Audra North 

Just as Jill begins a semester abroad, the boyfriend she traveled there for dumps her. Two weeks into her semester and she is ready to return home, but she stumbles into the arms of sexy Stuart. As Jill and Stuart get to know one another, sparks begin to fly and soon Jill is glad that she decided to stay. But is Jill ready to move on with Stuart, or is she still hung up on her recent ex? 

I really liked Jill and Stuart. They were great together, and Stuart was such a good guy. This story was short, but really sweet and I enjoyed it a lot. Stuart and Jill's connection was quick, but it felt very real and believable to me. I loved how cute they were together, and this was definitely one of my favorites of the entire anthology. I would have loved for these two to have been given a full story though, as I was really curious to see where things would go from here for them. I also found myself wishing that we had been given Stuart's POV, as I would have loved to have seen what was going on in his head. 

Smells Like Teen Spirit-Rebecca Grace Allen 

Rory is working a dead end job in the town where she graduated college. One night she meets James, a sexy singer about to graduate from the same college she went to. They instantly hit it off, but Rory is scared to allow herself to feel anything for him after all that she has been through with her parents. She has always felt lonely and abandoned, but James makes her want more. Can Rory and James have something together or will it be over before it ever really begins? 

I liked James and Rory. These two were super hot together, and the chemistry between them was explosive. I thought that they also had a great connection though, and I enjoyed seeing them get to know one another. Rory loved poetry and James loved music, and they seemed to always be able to relate to one another and discuss their passions. James and Rory's connection felt real to me, but it was a bit rushed. I did feel as though these two were meant for each other though, and I would have liked to have seen a bit more down the road for them after where things left off here. 

Little Red Thong-Jennifer Blackwood

As Emily, her brother Drew, her best friend and her brother's best friend Chase set out on a spring break cruise, they each set out to win a game of spring break bingo. There are several things that they must each accomplish in order to win, but with each of them being competitive they will do whatever it takes to win. Chase has always liked Emily, but he knows that he needs to stay away from her as the sister of his best friend. Emily finds herself drawn to Chase though, and is interested to see where things could go between them. But will Chase risk his friendship with Drew in order to see what he could finally have with Emily?

I love stories about heroines falling for their brother's best friend, so I couldn't wait to read this one. It was really good, and I liked the characters a lot. I loved that Chase had grown up with Emily and Drew, so they had a lot of history together. That made this super short story about them seem real and believable to me in a way that it might not have been had they just met. Because they already had a connection, it didn't feel rushed. Chase and Emily were cute together and they had a lot of chemistry. My only complaint here is the same as most of the stories in this anthology, in that I wanted more. I would have loved to have seen what happened after the cruise was over and they returned to their lives at home. I didn't doubt that they could handle the distance, yet it would have been nice to see. 

Overall 

Overall, this was a good anthology and I really enjoyed four of the six stories here. I wish that those had been longer though, and that was my biggest complaint for them. There were two of the stories here that just didn't do it for me though, and I probably wouldn't have finished those if it wasn't for how short they were. I would still recommend this anthology for the other stories though, and I will definitely be checking out other works by those authors.

**ARC Provided by Xpresso Book Tours**

Purchase: | Amazon | iTunes |