Al Stone's Blog, page 2

Book Blitz & Giveaway - A Willowcroft Cozy Mystery Series by Fran Heap

Murder, Mystery & Mothers(A Willowcroft Cozy Mystery, #1)Author: Fran HeapGenre: Adult Cozy Mystery
Book Description:“You’d better leave town or else”.
After a devastating betrayal mystery writer Tammy Rumbelow flees LA for a charming blue cottage in Willowcroft, Michigan. But when a yellowed letter in the attic reveals an unsolved 70-year-old locked room murder in her living room, her peace is shattered.
Determined to start fresh, Tammy enlists the help of a ragtag group of locals:
Bookstore owner Olivia Huddlestone offers a sanctuary for clandestine conversations and genealogical sleuthing among her shelves.
Eccentric Mrs. Hazel Temperance mines her knitting circle for gossip.
Retired detective “Wally” has contacts at the sheriff’s department.
Tech whiz kid Xander Simmons hasn’t met a computer he didn’t like—or a website he can’t hack.
And a stray cat with a nose for clues…
As threatening letters appear and break-ins escalate around town, Tammy must prove to herself—and her inner critic—that she’s capable of solving a murder, or will that be two?
Perfect for fans of multi-generational mysteries filled with quirky characters like Only Murders in the Building and crime-solving writers like Castle.
Buy Links:Amazon | UK
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - The Road to Gretna by Suleena Bibra

The Road to Gretna(Road to Romance, #1)Author: Suleena BibraPublication Date: June 3rd, 2025Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Book Description:What better way to escape reality than going on a reality show that combines The Amazing Race, Love Island, and Pride and Prejudice?
Naomi Richmond is hoping an ocean is far enough away from her overbearing father. She’s chosen London and built a life there with a job she only dislikes about a quarter of the time.
Nate Williams is perfectly happy where he is, and his dissatisfaction with his job is so low it can’t be quantified numerically. Unfortunately, his boss (and Naomi’s father) is asking him to do something that might make him start to hate Mondays: convince Naomi to come home.
Nate arrives in London at the same time Naomi receives an offer that intrigues her as much as Nate does: be on a reality dating show, where the contestants will pretend to be Regency aristocrats eloping to the famed Gretna Green. Nate is sure it’s his job to stop this, but instead, he ends up on the show with her. Now Naomi is trying to make a name for herself while Nate is trying to make sure she doesn’t do anything to embarrass her father, and they’re both trying to fight the attraction they feel for each other. On camera.
Tune in whenever you find this book and watch Nate and Naomi find themselves and each other, on The Road to Gretna!
Buy Links:Amazon | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Wicked Ambition: The Lost Treasure by Patti O'Shea

Wicked Ambition: The Lost Treasure(The Paladin League, #7)Author: Patti O’SheaPublication Date: July 21st, 2025Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance / Suspense
Book Description:Ayla Desmond never takes risks, but when she senses her twin is in trouble, she boards a plane to Puerto Jardin—a country teetering on the edge of chaos. As a Public Relations specialist at the Paladin League, she’s used to spin, not bullets. But this mission plunges her into a deadly game where trust is scarce and danger is everywhere.
Special Forces Sgt. Oziah “Wizard” West is the king of one-night stands, but he hasn’t been able to forget the last woman he hooked up with, a mysterious blonde who slipped away from his hotel room. When he spots her in Puerto Jardin, he knows there will be trouble. Oz rushes to her side, determined to keep her safe.
Ayla wants nothing to do with Oz. He’s a mistake she’d rather forget, but circumstances force them together. Surrounded by mercenaries and stalked by mobsters who believe she holds the key to a hidden treasure, she has no choice but to rely on the enigmatic stranger who ignited her passion. As danger escalates, so do their feelings, and then a positive pregnancy test changes everything.
Now, Oz risks not only his heart but also his life to protect Ayla and their unborn child. Can they survive the treacherous game they’re caught in, or will their love become the ultimate casualty?
Wicked Ambition is a stand-alone romance with a HEA. There are references to events that happened in earlier books, but it’s not necessary to read them to enjoy this story.
Indulge in a protective Special Forces hero and a heroine who is a fish-out-of-water, but will do whatever it takes to save her sister. This romantic suspense story features a one-night stand, an unexpected pregnancy, and a second chance romance.
Buy Links:Amazon | UK
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Running Hott by Serena Bell

Running Hott(Hott Springs Eternal, #4)Author: Serena BellPublication Date: July 14th, 2025Genre: Adult Comedy / Contemporary Romance
Book Description:A jilted bride. A jaded divorce lawyer. A full tank of gas. What could go wrong?
Rhys: As a cutthroat New York City divorce lawyer, it’s my job to end marriages. Lifetime commitment? It’s for the birds. I do everything in my power to avoid it…until my grandfather’s will says that to save our family’s land, I have to become a wedding planner.
Worse, my first client is Eden Becker. She’s the sunshine-y disaster whose ex-husband I represented a few years ago in their divorce. Eden’s first marriage was a nightmare, so why does she think another one is a good idea?
Turns out, I’m not wrong. Her jerkwad fiancé jilts her, and as her wedding planner, I’m also her getaway vehicle. Now we’re on the road together—and all my complicated feelings about this beautiful, naive optimist are in the car, too. Along with a wild attraction I’ve been fighting since we first faced off across a conference table.
If this road trip goes on too much longer, I’m going to do something I’ll regret forever.
Like fall in love.
A spicy, grumpy-sunshine, jilted bride, enemies to lovers, standalone road trip romantic comedy set in the beloved small town of Rush Creek.
Buy Links:Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo
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BOOK REVIEW: The Parting Mirror by C.C. Crimefighter

The Parting Mirror Author: C.C. Crimefighter
Illustrator: QBN Studios
Publication Date: 7 December 2021
Genre: Children's Picture Book / Reflective Poetry

Book Description:
Do you want to know something clever?
If you take a mirror, and face it towards another,
instead of looking back and forth, the mirrors go on forever! 
It's true!
And if you stand between those mirrors, you go on forever too!
I think that's a clue...Don't you.
Buy Links:
Amazon US | UK


SUMMARY
The Parting Mirror by C.C. Crimefighter is a beautifully illustrated picture book that invites readers of all ages, from children to teenagers, to embark on a journey of self-discovery. Through lyrical poetry and enchanting artwork, the story dares its audience to look into a mirror and question the nature of their own reflection. The book gently explores the idea that the person we see in the mirror might not always be who we think we are, prompting readers to reflect on their true selves. While its format and rhyme are accessible to younger children, the themes of identity, self-awareness and introspection offer depth and resonance for older readers as well. The story touches on some darker, more mature ideas but always maintains a sense of hope and wonder, making it suitable for a wide age range.
MY THOUGHTS
When I first picked up The Parting Mirror, I was immediately drawn to the magical illustrations, expecting them to be the highlight. However, I soon found that the poetry and prose were just as captivating—breathtaking, in fact. The book’s central message is both thought-provoking and uplifting, encouraging readers, whether young or older, to look within and consider who they truly are. I was particularly impressed by how the book balances accessibility for younger readers with more complex themes that older children and teens can appreciate. It’s rare to find a picture book that speaks so effectively across such a broad age range. The story is not dark in a frightening way, but it does touch on some mature subjects, making it one of the more sophisticated picture books I’ve read. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised and deeply satisfied. The Parting Mirror is a book that invites repeated reading and reflection.
VERDICT

Rating: 5 StarsSource: Own copy

Book Blitz & Giveaway - The 21-Day Boyfriend Audiobook by A. S. Kelly

The 21-Day BoyfriendAuthor: A.S. KellyPublication Date: May 21, 2025 (Audiobook)Genre: Adult Comedy / Contemporary / LGBTQ+ / Romance
Book Description:Eric O’Shea needs to make a decision. The annual event his family forces him to attend is just around the corner, and he doesn’t have a date.
Eric never needs help when it comes to finding men. But this time is different – his ex and his new boyfriend will be there, and Eric can’t just bring along one of his usual flings.
His only hope seems to be him: the best friend of his best friend, who he never wanted to meet.
Sean Quinn is a calm, collected, and cultured man; someone who would rather stay at home and read a book than waste his time chasing a date with no future.
Sean isn’t in a rush to find the perfect man, and he certainly doesn’t intend to go out with Eric: his best friend’s other best friend, who he’s avoided meeting for years.
But Sean has a flaw: he can’t say no to anyone, especially not when it comes to his friend Jake, who has a habit of worming his way into other people’s lives.
But it’s just one date, after all: pure fiction. It’s a shame, then, that when Eric needs Sean for another favour, he can’t turn his back. It’s a shame that just when Sean is beginning to understand that Eric isn’t what he seems, he can’t seem to stop before he gets hurt.
Twenty-one days: that’s the agreement.Twenty-one days of grazing hands, furtive glances, and unexpected kisses.Twenty-one days where anything goes; except falling in love.
Buy Links:Amazon US | UK | Audible | Apple | Kobo | Google Play
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - The Captain's Crush by Freda Ann

The Captain’s Crush(A Bliss Cay Novella, #6)Author: Freda AnnPublication Date: June 13th, 2025Genre: Sweet & Clean Romance/Christian Romance/Contemporary Romance
Book Description:Amelia Marks met her first love, Lewis, on summer vacation twenty-six years ago as a teenager, but their future goals kept them apart once they left Bliss Cay.
Now a successful middle-aged widow, and mother to a teenage daughter, her career brings her back to the island, the same place where she met Lewis. After he pulls her over in his police car, she’s stunned when he insists they’ve never met.
Flat out mad that he’s making her feel like a complete stranger, considering the summer they shared together, Amelia is determined to leave her feelings for him in the past. That was before Amelia discovers she’s now his new boss at the Bliss Cay Police Department and his name is not Lewis, it’s Jesse, who shares a striking resemblance to the boy who stole her heart all those years ago.
This mid-life love story is about heartbreak, family bonds, and some unexpected new beginnings with a happily ever after ending.
(All books in this series are ‘standalone’ beach town love stories with new main characters in each book.)
Only 99c for a limited time!
Buy Links:Amazon | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Wistful Whispers by Kaylene Winter

Wistful Whispers(Charming Irish, #3)Author: Kaylene WinterPublication Date: June 9th, 2025Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Book Description:Wistful Whispers is an irresistible battle of the wills where surrendering to forbidden temptation could cost them everything.
I never promised forever.A good time? Absolutely.Heartbreak? Only if they got too attached.
My reputation as a quiet playboy precedes me—women talk, and my ‘talents’ follow me wherever I go. But I’ve always been upfront. No commitments. No expectations. No complications.
Marcella Delgado is nothing but complications. Brilliant. Fierce. Eight years older. And the attorney trying to take down my boss in a malpractice case. She should hate me on sight—hell, she does. But that doesn’t stop the heat between us from igniting the moment we meet.
She’s heard the stories about me firsthand, right there in the depositions. She knows exactly what I’m good at, and even though she fights it, I can see the temptation in her eyes.
One night. One line crossed.Now my future’s unraveling—and she might be the only thing I don’t want to let go.
For the first time, I want it all.
And I’ll fight like hell to be the man she can’t leave behind.
Buy Links:Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Falling for the CEO: A Billionaire Romance Collection

Falling for the CEO: A Billionaire Romance Collection Anna Zaires, Brenna Aubrey, Evelyn Austin, Lee Savino, Misha Bell, Renee Rose, Tasha Boyd, Theodora Taylor Publication Date: June 5th, 2025Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Book Description:Boardroom chemistry meets bedroom passion! When ordinary women step into a billionaire’s world of luxury and power, sparks fly and hearts race. Indulge in 8 COMPLETE novels of steamy workplace romances where ambition, wealth, and magnetic attraction collide. This exclusive collection of swoon-worthy stories delivers all the drama, passion, and heart-melting moments you crave—available for a LIMITED TIME only!
Wall Street Titan by Anna Zaires
One high-end matchmaker, one dating app, one mix-up that changes everything… Opposites may attract, but can this last? 
Holt: Her Ruthless Scion by Theodora Taylor
Born into one of the wealthiest families in the world, Holt Calson had everything—except me, and what Calsons want, Calsons get. For one blazing summer, we had it all, until…
Billionaire Grump by Misha Bell
A hilariously disastrous elevator ride brings them together. Will their insecurities tear them apart?
Accidental Tryst by Tasha Boyd
Restaurant blogger Emmy accidentally switches cellphones in a busy airport with a grumpy, sexy CEO on the verge of the biggest business deal of his life. Insults and then sparks fly! Can their explosive chemistry translate to real life?
The Director by Renee Rose
After discovering her secret pregnancy, a bratva boss kidnaps a lawyer pregnant with his child.
Royally Bad by Lee Savino
Billionaire. Playboy. Prince. My new boss. Theo Kensington the most eligible—or ineligible—bachelor in the entire world. So what he’s starred in a sex tape…or three?    I’m the fixer hired to clean up his image, but this bad boy is more interested in misbehaving…with me.
At Any Price by Brenna Aubrey
Blogger Mia Strong cashes in on her online popularity by selling her virginity to the highest bidder — with no strings attached. But when sexy CEO Adam Drake wins the prize, all bets are off…
The Mistress Contract by Evelyn Austin
Powerful billionaire Evan will stop at nothing to convince college student Madeline to sign a contract to be his possession. But the longer they’re involved, the more entangled they become…
Buy Links:Amazon US | UK | Barnes & Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Google Play
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Book Blitz & Giveaway - Sarah by Shanna Hatfield

SarahAuthor: Shanna HatfieldPublication Date: May 22nd, 2025Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Book Description:She desires his heart.He longs for her love. Can they find common ground when he returns forever altered by the war.
In a world turned upside down by World War I, all Sarah Richards desires is to love Brett Rawlings and build a future together. After graduating high school a year early, she’s ready to dive into her dreams of college and a home filled with laughter and love. But one impulsive decision threatens all her aspirations—as well as her relationship with Brett.
As the war rages on and men head off to fight, sixteen-year-old Brett reluctantly follows his twin brother, Ben, sneaking off to France to join the American Expeditionary Forces. As the months pass, Ben thrives amidst the chaos of battle, while Brett finds himself haunted by the girl he left behind and the uncertainty of his own heart. When Ben reveals a life-altering secret, the bond between the brothers is shattered, forcing Brett to grapple with betrayal as he faces the brutal realities of war.
Brett returns home a changed man, burdened with memories too heavy to bear, yet yearning to mend the fractures of the past. Will Sarah still be waiting for him, or have time and truth forged an unbridgeable chasm between them?
Find out in this heartfelt historical romance that weaves a tale of hope, grace, forgiveness, and sweet, enduring love.
Buy Links: Amazon US  | UK
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