Sage Nestler's Blog, page 38
June 13, 2017
Box Review: Tokyo Trove – June 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I am sorry it has been a few days since I have posted! It is packing time for my subscription boxes – Literary Vacation Club and Hedren’s Chest – so things are a bit hectic. But I wanted to share with you another great subscription box that is designed for Kawaii lovers! This box is called Tokyo Trove, and it brings you authentic Japanese collectibles as well as apparel and snack items. I LOVE Kawaii items, so I about squealed when I opened this box. I hope you enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
[image error]
DELIVERING THE JAPANESE GOODS YOU CRAVE!
WHAT’S INSIDE?
5-7 ITEMS PER BOX
UNIQUE MONTHLY SHIRT
YUMMY SNACKS
FREE SHIPPING
Plan Options:
Tokyo Trove Basic: $23/month + FREE SHIPPING*
Doesn’t include t-shirt
Tokyo Trove Premium: $30/month + FREE SHIPPING*
Includes all of the above
Whalewatch: $35/month + FREE SHIPPING*
Includes environmentally friendly items
10% of proceeds go to the Pacific Whale Foundation
*International shipping is available through here.
[image error]
I received the Tokyo Trove Premium to review, and I couldn’t wait to try out this fun, Japan-inspired box!
[image error]
Tokyo Trove comes in a small, turquoise box with the logo stamped on the front of it! I like how compact the box is.
[image error]
The contents of the box come tightly packed so that none of the items shift around during shipping. The only thing that I wish this box came with is an insert card because I would have liked to know more about the items.
[image error]
The first item that I pulled out of the box is this adorable Vaporeon Pokemon plush! I am a huge Pokemon lover, so I squealed when I saw this plush. It is very high quality, and I am in love with it!
[image error]
The next item is also based on Pokemon! It is a sticker that represents the Exeggutor Pokemon. This sticker is adorable, and I love it! Anything from Pokemon is a win with me.
The next item is this cute cat pin! I love the kawaii style of the pen, and it writes really well. I am such a cat lady, so this pen is very fitting.
[image error]
The next item is this small pack of Japanese candies! They taste sweet and milky, almost like caramel, and I think they are delicious. I love how cute Japanese candy is, so I enjoyed trying this snack out.
[image error]
The next item is also a snack, and it is a stick of Japanese jerky! This jerky was delicious, and it had such a rich flavor.
[image error]
The last item is a Japanese t-shirt with a fish that is holding up a gun. I have seen this art on other products, and I think that it is cute! I really like the Japanese style.
[image error]
Final Thought: Tokyo Trove is an adorable box for those who love Japanese products! I enjoyed each item in the box, and they are all useful to me. However, I would have liked to have seen an insert list so that I could learn more about the items that were sent. But other than that, Tokyo Trove is a great box for lovers of Japanese culture!
June 10, 2017
Box Review: Bombs and Bubbles – June 2017
Hello, Everyone!
I hope you are having a wonderful weekend 
June 9, 2017
Box Review: Sherbert Box – May 2017
I want to share with you a box that is based in the UK called Sherbert Box! This box brings you unique stationary each month based on a different theme. All of the stationery is hand designed by the artist of Sherbert Box, Claire, and I just love her designs! This is a great box for those who love independent art like I do.
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
Love stationery? Love getting happy post?
The SherbetBox is sent out to our lovely subscribers each month, packed with stationery exclusively designed by illustrator Claire Keay. Each box has a different theme and the contents are always a surprise so it’s just like buying a little present for yourself each month!
Plans:
$17.83(14 pounds)/month + shipping*
*Shipping Is FREE In The UK – Rest Of World Is $6.31(4.95 Pounds)
May’s theme was “Wanderlust” so I couldn’t wait to try this box!
Sherbert Box comes in a small, letter size box. I love how compact the packaging is! The box is sealed with a sticker that has the Sherbert Box hashtag on it.
Since this box came at the end of May, it came with a June calendar page! I love how this calendar page is specifically designed for the box to go with the “Wanderlust” theme. The illustrations are adorable!
The next items came in a small gift bag. They included some travel inspired washi tape, an eraser, and a small paper suitcase with map pins in it! I love the careful detailing on the paper suitcase. I also love putting pins on a map to mark where I have traveled to, so the pins will be put to great use. The vintage feel of the washi tape is also my favorite!
The next items are greeting cards that have travel designs on them! The artwork is so cute, and I can’t wait to mail these. I love how all three cards represent a different form of travel.
The next item is a notebook that is designed with travel illustrations! I love how cute the artwork is. The inside of the notebook is dotted like graph paper. I love using this type of paper for artwork, so I have already started to use the notebook!
The next items are an art print, a set of stationary paper, and some stickers! I love the art on the art print and how it represents May’s theme. The simple design of the stationary is very classy, and the stickers are so well made!
Final Thought: Sherbert Box is a great stationary box! I love how all of the items are made specifically by Claire Keay, the designer, so you can’t find them anywhere else. It is neat how each month comes with a different theme so you can build up a variety of stationary! If you love to write letters or decorate your planner or journal, then Sherbert Box is a great box to bring you goodies for your craft!
June 8, 2017
Box Review: The Bookworm Box – April 2017
I am in love with The Bookworm Box because all of the funding from their box goes to charity. They also support women who love to read romance by sending them high-quality romance novels! I think that the love and passion that goes into this box is amazing, and I hope that you will agree.
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
[image error]
Good deeds, great reads.
GET A MONTHLY SUBSCRIPTION BOX WITH 2 AUTOGRAPHED BOOKS, A BOOKWORM ITEM, PLUS FUN BOOK SWAG!
The Bookworm Box was created by Colleen Hoover, a published author. She is also the CEO of the box! Colleen Hoover created The Bookworm Box to give back to society after she became an author.
Plans:
$39.99/month + shipping*
*Shipping is calculated
[image error]
I received the April 2017 The Bookworm Box to review, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this box!
[image error]
The Bookworm Box comes in a purple box with the adorable logo on the top!
[image error]
Upon opening the box, you are greeted with a letter from the owner of the box – Colleen Hoover! The letter focuses on changes that are coming to the box, as well as a charitable update. I love how all of the profit from this box goes to charity.
The first item included in the box is a tea towel with The Bookworm Box’s logo on it! I have to admit, it took me a long time to figure out what this was since it was just simple canvas. But once I found out that it is a tea towel, I was excited to put it in my kitchen!
The next item is a pen with The Bookworm Box’s logo on it! I can never have enough pens, so I will be putting this to great use.
The last accessory is a magnet featuring The Bookworm Box’s logo. I love the worm in the logo, so I can’t wait to put this on my fridge!
This box also came with bonus bookmarks featuring romance authors and their books! There is also a postcard featuring the “Smart Girls Read Books” movement. I am a big fan of this movement to remove the stigma from women who love to read romance novels, so I love that The Bookworm Box supports it.
The first book included in the April box is Emerge by S.E. Hall. This novel is a new adult romance, and it is signed by the author!
Here Is The Synopsis:
“You never have to be without me, Laney, never.”
He lied…my everything I ever knew, trusted, wanted…I am, in fact, without him.
On my own and out of my shell, I learn new things about life, friendship, and…myself.
Like what you’ve always known may not be what you’ve always wanted.
Dane Kendrick awakened things within me that I never knew existed, unraveling and uncovering the real Laney Jo Walker.
I’m a NEW adult…so is my story.
Emerge sounds like an intense romance novel, and I can’t wait to read it! New adult romances are some of my favorites.
The last item in the box is the book Tapping the Billionaire by Max Monroe! This novel is a humorous romance, and I can’t wait to read it. It looks so different from any other romance novel I have read! And of course, it is signed by the author.
Here Is The Synopsis:
A secret duo of romance authors team up under the New York Times & USA Today Bestselling pseudonym Max Monroe to bring you a sexy, laugh-out-loud new series. Are you ready to meet the Billionaire Bad Boys?
Blind dates? Online dating profiles? Been there, done that.
Georgia Cummings has zero luck with dating, and the era of the internet is not her friend.
No matter how fast she runs, how many corners she turns, she can’t find her way out of this weird, alternate universe where men think d*ck pics are a replacement for small talk and getting to know a girl. One more crotch selfie and she might write men off for good…
But why can’t she stop fantasizing about him?
Kline Brooks is the quintessential billionaire bad boy—dark, styled, short hair, muscles for days, and a panty-dropping smile.
Except—he isn’t.
As his employee, he won’t touch her with a ten-foot pole.
But she won’t touch him either.
Too bad their hormones missed the memo.
Disclaimer:
If you’re the type of woman who prefers crotch selfies to small talk, this book isn’t for you.
If you enjoy random men you’ve never met filling up your inbox with dirty words and p*rn—for reasons focused more towards diddling your donut than laughing at the absurdity—this book isn’t for you.
If you HATE laughing, this book isn’t for you.
If you want your male leads to grunt, thrust like jack rabbits, and have one-track minds that prefer a nice pair of t*ts to brains every hour of every day for the rest of forever, well, then, this book still isn’t for you.
But.
If you enjoy a good swoon, a hearty laugh, witty banter, and some hot as f*@% f*@%ing, then consider Georgia Cummings your Girl Friday and Kline Brooks your next irresistible book boyfriend.
[image error]
Final Thought: The Bookworm Box is a great box to give back to society, while also satisfying your romance novel fix! Even though some of the bonus items can be repeats due to the random nature of the box, The Bookworm Box is a great way to receive signed romance novels that you are sure to love. I love the mission of this box, and I highly suggest it! If you are like me and need a little sexy time now and then, The Bookworm Box has got you covered 
Box Review: Enchanted Book Box – May 2017
I have come across another awesome book subscription that I want to share with you. This box is called Enchanted Book Box and they send out young adult books with other fun bookish goodies! Their May box was themed “Game of Thrones”, and I couldn’t be more excited about what they included in the box. Please enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
Your Enchanted Book box awaits!
A monthly themed YA box that delivers bookish items right to your door! A perfect box for any YA book lover!
Plans:
$38.00/month + shipping*
*Shipping is calculated – International shipping is available, but contact for rates
May’s theme was “Game of Thrones”!
As a huge fan of Game of Thrones, I couldn’t wait to receive this box! Game of Thrones is life.
[image error]
Enchanted Book Box comes in an adorable white box with the logo on the top! I love how ethereal the box design is. It goes well with the concept of the box!
Upon opening the box, the first thing that you see is a Game of Thrones style letter with a wax seal! The wax seal has the Stark House Sigil imprinted into it. I love this little detail!
[image error]
Here is a closer look at the gorgeous wax seal!
[image error]
The letter itself lists everything included in the box. This is such a unique way to design the content card for this box! I love how the owner of the box kept with the Game of Thrones theme through even the smallest details. The quote at the beginning of the letter is one of my favorites and something I live by.
The quote says:
“Never forget what you are, for surely the world will not. Make it your strength. Then it can never be your weakness. Armour yourself in it, and it will never be used to hurt you.”
The first item on the list is the chosen book of the month! This month’s book choice is Royal Bastards by Andrew Shvarts.
Here is the synopsis:
Being a bastard blows. Tilla would know. Her father, Lord Kent of the Western Province, loved her as a child, but cast her aside as soon as he had trueborn children.
At sixteen, Tilla spends her days exploring long-forgotten tunnels beneath the castle with her stablehand half brother, Jax, and her nights drinking with the servants, passing out on Jax’s floor while her castle bedroom collects dust. Tilla secretly longs to sit by her father’s side, enjoying feasts with the rest of the family. Instead, she sits with the other bastards, like Miles of House Hampstedt , an awkward scholar who’s been in love with Tilla since they were children.
Then, at a feast honoring the visiting princess Lyriana, the royal shocks everyone by choosing to sit at the Bastards’ Table. Before she knows it, Tilla is leading the sheltered princess on a late-night escapade. Along with Jax, Miles, and fellow bastard Zell, a Zitochi warrior from the north, they stumble upon a crime they were never meant to witness.
Rebellion is brewing in the west, and a brutal coup leaves Lyriana’s uncle, the Royal Archmagus, dead–with Lyriana next on the list. The group flees for their lives, relentlessly pursued by murderous mercenaries; their own parents have put a price on their heads to prevent the king and his powerful Royal Mages from discovering their treachery.
The bastards band together, realizing they alone have the power to prevent a civil war that will tear their kingdom apart-if they can warn the king in time. And if they can survive the journey . . .
Based on the synopsis, I think that this is a great book to pair with the Game of Thrones box! I am very excited to read it.
[image error]
The next item is a Mother of Dragons bookmark from Jessicascissorhands on Etsy! This bookmark is beautiful and I love the watercolor design of it. It is based on my favorite Game of Thrones character, Daenerys, and I will be putting it to great use!
[image error]
The next item is this Game of Thrones tea from LoSkeeverAmmiccante! I am obsessed with tea, so I was so excited to receive this tea in the box. It smells delicious!
[image error]
The next item is this Sansa’s Lemon Cakes Lip Balm by NerdieNifties! This lip balm is extremely moisturizing, and I love how it smells like lemon meringue pie. It also has such a neat connection to Game of Thrones!
[image error] [image error]
The next item is this King’s Landing candle by Flickering Tales Candles! The candle smells spicy with a hint of the ocean, and I love it. It sets the perfect scene for Game of Thrones!
[image error]
The next item is my favorite item in the box! It is an authentic Quellon Greyjoy Half-Penny from Shire Post Mint. This coin looks like it came right out of Game of Thrones, and I love the description that goes with it. It really makes the story come to life!
[image error] [image error]
The next item is a Collector Card from Mystic Moon Media! I received Daenerys, my favorite character, so I was very excited. The artwork is beautiful, and I have already put it on my bookshelf!
[image error]
The next item is a Game of Thrones Coloring Book by Sweetgeek on Etsy! This coloring book is compact, and I love how it highlights different characters from the series.
[image error]
Here is an example of Jon Snow from the coloring book! I love the quote that is on his page.
[image error]
The next item is this pin from Geektastic Creations! The pin reads “that’s what I do. I drink and I know things”. This quote is reminiscent of Tyrion Lannister, one of my other favorite characters, so I was so happy to see that he was included!
[image error]
The last item is this “Dracarys” bookmark from Paperback Paramour! The term “Dracarys” is what Daenerys uses to encourage her dragons to breathe fire.
[image error]
Here is the back of the bookmark! I think that the artwork is beautiful.
[image error]
Final Thought: Enchanted Book Box is fantastic! Even though it is more expensive than other book boxes, it comes with so much more. They really put a lot of effort into making this Game of Thrones box magical, and I adore everything that was included. This is one of the best YA boxes that I have tried, and I highly recommend it! The passion that goes into the box really shows. Go ahead and give Enchanted Book Box a try! You won’t be disappointed.
[image error]
Box Review: Bawdy Bookworms – Spring 2017
Hello, Everyone!
Today, I am going to share with you a very unique book subscription called Bawdy Bookworms that has a sexy twist to it!
But due to the adult nature of this post, please DO NOT proceed to read if you are under 18. Ages 18+ ONLY!
I am super excited about this box, and I hope that you will love it as much as I do. Bawdy Bookworms comes with a romance/erotica novel as well as fun adult accessories. If you are like me and need a sexy night in now and then, then Bawdy Bookworms is a can’t miss. Enjoy!
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
*Ages 18+ ONLY*
Each month, you’ll receive a specially curated package with a smokin’ hot book plus a few sexy surprises.
And yes, sometimes batteries are included. All in discreet packaging, of course. That’s not all. Bawdy Bookworms is also a virtual book club that will offer our subscribers access to a private forum. What’s the fun in reading sexy stories if we don’t have anyone to discuss it with?
Plans:
$34.95/every 3 months + shipping*
One – time boxes are available for those who don’t want to commit to a subscription!
*Shipping is calculated. US (starts at $6) and Canada (starts at $15) ONLY.
The spring box’s theme is “Turn Up the Heat”!
I was so excited to receive Bawdy Bookworms because I love a bit of sexy time with my reading! Bawdy Bookworms is all about helping women be proud of their sexuality, and I am all for that.
Bawdy Bookworms comes in discrete packaging, which I appreciate! They really care about their subscribers’ discretion.
Upon opening the box, I love seeing how simple and sexy the packaging is! Opening this box is like walking into a classy, erotic store without the awkwardness. For those who are uncomfortable going to adult stores, Bawdy Bookworms has got you covered!
After pulling back the tissue paper, the first thing that you see is the content card! I love when the card is displayed first so that you know what is included in the box.
The chosen book for the spring box is Delicious by Shayla Black! From what I can tell, this book is out of print. That makes the book that much more valuable to receive!
Here is the synopsis:
Luc’s entire future is planned out-but there is one very sexy obstacle in his path: Alyssa, a strip club owner with whom Luc recently shared one night of wild abandon. It left Luc terrified by his loss of selfcontrol-and Alyssa desperate for more. But Luc is not the only man desperate to have Alyssa…and that’s just one of her secrets-secrets as dark and mysterious and delicious as her fantasies.
I am so excited to receive this book because I had not heard of it before receiving this box.
The owner of the box, Kim, added a note to subscribers on the content card as to why she chose Delicious as the book! I love the personal touch of the letter, and it makes me more excited to read the book knowing that Kim loved it. Bawdy Bookworms is perfect for those who have a hard time navigating the romance/erotica genre so that they can have books hand chosen for them.
Since Delicious is set in Louisiana, Kim included coffee and a creamy praline from Louisiana to go with the book! Kim is from Louisiana herself, so I love that she connected her personal story to the box. I have already eaten the praline, and it was delicious! I am also a coffee fanatic, so I can’t wait to try this coffee out. There is nothing better than drinking a cup of hot coffee while reading a great book!
The first sexy item is this vibrating lipstick! I LOVE the pink and black color, and the fact that it is the size of a real lipstick. When the cap is on, you can’t tell that it isn’t real which makes it discreet enough to carry around with you. I have to say *ah-hem* that I have already “tried” this lipstick vibrator out, and I give it an A+++ 
June 7, 2017
Book Review: Illumicrate – May 2017 (2nd Quarter)
Hello, Everyone!
I am excited to share with you another book subscription called Illumicrate! This subscription ships out four times a year, and they are UK based. Shipping within the UK is FREE but they also ship internationally! I love all of the publisher exclusives you receive in this box, and it really has brightened up my reading life. I even received an ARC in this cbox! I hope you enjoy 
June 6, 2017
Book Review: Sheets and Secrets by Liv Moore
Author: Liv Moore
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
Ellie has realized becoming a stay at home writer has proven to be more challenging than rewarding. Living on the outskirts of the city with no potential job on the horizon, Ellie is left with too much time on her hands and not enough money. When a spot opens up at the strip club down the street where her roommate works, she jumps at the opportunity. Plus, she is in desperate need of some writing inspiration.
What could possibly go wrong?
Kason has dated the wrong type of women his entire life. Being a cop, he’s seen what goes on in the background of the clubs. After what happened years ago, he swore he would never get involved with a stripper ever again.
Until he meets Ellie.
Will Ellie be able to keep Kason and her job a secret? Will Kason run away from his past, or accept it and let Ellie in?
Will danger find them tangled between their sheets and secrets?
*Sheets and Secrets is a STANDALONE novella with some violence, suspense, sexual conduct, and language. As always, an HEA. Ages 18+ only.
Review:
Sheets and Secrets is a debut romance novella by author Liv Moore. At only 138 pages, I was excited to read this quick and dirty story. The synopsis of the book also promised danger, and I love a bit of risk paired with my romance!
Ellie is a stay at home writer who finds herself broke and barely making ends meet. After moving in with a stripper who was looking for a roommate on Craig’s List, she becomes exposed to the stripping lifestyle. Once an opening at her roommate’s club opens up, Ellie takes a risk by becoming a stripper. It is through this job that she meets ex-cop Kason and they become romantically involved.
Moore creates a hot and heavy romance that is never dull and brings a sense of excitement to the reader. The suspense that she adds to Kason and Ellie’s romance adds just the right amount of risk, and it forces the reader to connect with Kason and Ellie.
Despite the unusual plot concerning a romance between a stripper and an ex-cop, Moore was able to add substance to her characters. At the end of the novella, I didn’t think of Karon or Ellie in terms of their professions, and I wanted to see their romance bloom further. My only critique would be to go back and correct the grammar throughout this novella as I caught many mistakes that sidetracked me from the story. But other than that, Sheets and Secrets is a good first romance from a blossoming author!
[image error]
BOOK REVIEWS: Book Review Request Form
ALL OTHER INQUIRIES: peachykeenreviews@gmail.com
June 5, 2017
Box Review: Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss – May 2017
Hello, Everyone!
It is time for another unboxing of Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss! I love how this box brings you new novels in the romance, mystery, and suspense genres. Every book they send is unique and different from the others in the box, and it gives you a full month of books to read! I highly suggest it for those of you who like to keep up to date with new novels in these genres.
Much love,
Ashley
[image error]
When you sign up for Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss, every month you will receive a box full of new print books, eBooks, and a Fresh Fiction keepsake. Fresh Fiction focuses on genre fiction, romance in particular. There will be the occasional mystery, erotica, and paranormal as well.
Plan Options:
Month to Month ($25.95/month+FREE shipping in the US – Discount worldwide shipping is available)
3 Month Pre-Pay ($74.85/3 Months+FREE shipping the US – Discount worldwide shipping is available)
I am a huge fan of Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss, so I was so excited when this box landed on my doorstep!
[image error]
The pink design with the iconic logo on the top makes this box pop! I love seeing its cheery presence at my door. The box instantly brightens my mood.
[image error]
Upon opening the box, you are greeted with the June content card! I love the Romance Blooming in June idea. You can never go wrong with a good summer romance!
[image error]
The first item in the box is this pack of Viter Energy Caffeinated Breath Mints. I had never seen these before receiving them in the box, so I was excited to try them out! They are very strong and they do give you a great burst of energy. I like how these breath mints are a comedic pairing with the romance novels in the box!
[image error]
This month’s box features the publisher Forever!
[image error]
Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss likes to focus on certain publishers or authors each month, so this month’s choices from Forever are highlighted on the insert card. Each box received one of these books with a letter from the author!
[image error]
In addition to hard copies of novels, Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss brings you ebooks! This month, the ebooks I received are:
Why the River Runs by JoAnna Grace
Some call this river a taker of souls, a reaper. Sanguine is the Spanish word for blood and God knows plenty has been spilled in its murky depths. As Tina floats on her back, she couldn’t help but feel it’s more of an artery, giving life to its limbs.
Not everyone would agree.
Tough as nails, Tina Foster, doesn’t have time for a relationship. She’s far too busy running her family construction company. Tina’s take charge attitude may intimidate some, but to others, she’s a rock, a woman with a plan. Taming a heart this strong will take a man up for a challenge, and so far, there haven’t been too many contenders worthy of her time.
Bo Galloway is returning to Riverview after a rough few years. He’s home to take care of his grandmother and prays for a chance at redemption and a fresh start. Untrusting of most women, he doesn’t know what to think of his new boss. He definitely didn’t expect to admire Tina Foster. Bo’s only shot at getting Tina to notice him is to be as strong as she is.
Just like the waters of the Sanguine, Bo and Tina must find their flow. Will the waters sweep away their only chance at true love, or nourish a relationship as steady as the river itself?
Lexie by Kimberly Dean
Desire is a double-edged dance.
Lexie Underhill works her tail off in hopes of winning her adoptive father’s approval. It’s never enough. The stinging proof? He’s brought in a reorganization expert. As if the prospect of losing her job in the family business isn’t enough, Cameron Rowe’s sexy, intimidating presence makes her palms sweat.
When Lexie’s face appears on a scandalous freeway billboard, her protestations of innocence go unheard. With orders to save the family name—or else—she marches into the bar the billboard was advertising and comes face-to-face with an identical twin sister. Roxie is wild and free, everything Lexie isn’t. Before the night is out, she welcomes the chance to explore her own sensuality.
As she dances wantonly on the bar, suddenly Cam is there, kissing her as if he has the right. The sizzle between them breaks out in four-alarm desire, but Lexie has recalibrated her life plan. And the equation doesn’t factor in Cam—until she’s sure where his loyalties lie. With her…or her father’s company.
A Suitable Affair by Erica Taylor
Despite being beautiful and wealthy, Lady Susanna Macalister’s marriage prospects are rather lacking. Unwilling to let an opportunity pass her by, she decides a loveless marriage is better than spinsterhood, as it will allow her to continue her charities.
The life of Ian Carlisle, the Earl of Westcott, has been overshadowed by darkness and guilt for the past decade. Having abandoned his family when he was eighteen, Ian’s position within a secret division of the government has provided him an escape from the guilt he feels over the death of his sister.
When the Earl’s horse almost tramples Susanna in the middle of Hyde Park, Ian embraces the chance encounter as a possibility for redemption, for Susanna’s soon-to-be fiancé is the man Ian holds responsible for the death of his sister. Can this damaged lord hope to absolve the guilt he feels for failing his beloved sister by saving this vibrant, and unsuspecting lady from a similar fate? And will this charity-minded well-bred lady, who is not the perfectly bound book as Ian assumes, be willing to take a chance on the unstable earl when something more dignified and permanent is well within reach?
I always love bringing ebooks with me on my Kindle when I travel, so I can’t wait to sink my teeth into these picks!
[image error]
The main book that I received is Lethal Lies by Rebecca Zanetti! The book also came with a letter from the author, which I LOVE!
Here is the synopsis:
A deadly secret can’t stay buried forever . . .
Revenge. It’s the only thing that will help Anya Best sleep at night. The serial killer who murdered her sister is on the loose, and Anya will stop at nothing to put him behind bars, even use herself as bait to lure him out of hiding. But she can’t do this alone.
Private investigator Heath Jones’s job is to bring bastards to justice. This time it’s personal. He knew the Copper Killer’s latest victim so when her sister asks for his help, he’s all in. But when Anya uses the media to taunt the killer, she exposes Heath’s identity, putting them both in jeopardy. Now, secrets buried long ago are coming to light and the forces determined to destroy him are watching Heath’s every move, waiting to exact their own revenge. And they’ll use anything and anyone to get to Heath.
With twists and turns that will take your breath away, LETHAL LIES is sexy, action-packed suspense at its very best from New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti.
[image error]
The next book is In the Cowboy’s Arms by Vicki Lewis Thompson. This is a Harlequin Special Edition novel, and I can’t wait to read it! Cowboy romances are always my favorite, so I love that Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss included this novel this month.
Here is the synopsis:
Return to Thunder Mountain
Matt Forrest was born to be an actor but grew up a cowboy. That’s why, when things go haywire after he shoots his first Hollywood movie, he retreats to Thunder Mountain Ranch. Because it’s home—where his parents and foster brothers can help Matt find what he really wants out of life. So when someone he wants follows him to Wyoming, things get very interesting!
PR agent Geena Lysander isn’t about to lose one of her best new clients—so she goes after him! And, yes, it’s complicated…because she is attracted to Matt, and not just for his movie-star looks. As she gets to know the man behind the cowboy, their professional relationship becomes passionately personal. Could Matt’s next big role be as Geena’s leading man?
[image error]
The next item is an ARC (advanced reading copy) of A Stardance Summer by Emily March! I am an avid collector of ARC’s so I was very excited to read this book. I think it is cool that Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss is able to send readers books before they are released to everyone else!
Here is the synopsis:
Return to the beloved small town of Eternity Springs in the newest installment of Emily March’s New York Times bestselling series with A Stardance Summer.
Sometimes the end of one road
Brick Callahan enjoys every minute of chaos at his campground, Stardance Ranch, especially after the Tornado Alleycats arrive for an extended summer stay. The members of the all-female glamorous camping club are primarily seniors―active and adventurous, friendly and fun. But when he discovers Liliana Howe frolicking with the glamping grannies in a late night skinny-dipping session, he fears he’s in for a summer of trouble. Because his best friend’s kid sister has grown up to be drop-dead gorgeous.
. . .is the start of another
Betrayed by those she trusted, Lili decides she’s put her career first for too long. She sells her practical sedan, buys a travel trailer, and heads to Eternity Springs for a summer of rest, relaxation, and reassessment as the newest member of the Alleycats. The last person she expects to find running an RV resort is her high school crush. Their undeniable mutual attraction is a reminder that life is full of surprises. But when the past comes calling, will their summer romance stand the test of time?
[image error]
Here is the next book in the box. I am an avid reader of old west novels, so I was so excited to see that Trusting Grace by Maggie Brendan was included in this box!
Here is the synopsis:
All of her life, Grace Bidwell has longed for a loving husband and children, but now the chances of her dreams coming true are looking slim. Widowed and caring for her elderly father, she struggles to maintain her late husband’s ranch, until she places an ad for a hired hand.
Robert Frasier arrives in town with three pitiful, bedraggled children who have nothing but the tattered clothes on their backs and a load of hurt, pride, and anger. Believing this is divine intervention in her life, Grace welcomes them with open arms. As feelings grow between her and Robert, Grace will have to convince him that she is a woman who can be trusted with his heart.
Readers will be swept away into 1860s Montana’s lush Gallatin Valley, nestled among towering mountains and proud pines, in this emotional conclusion to the Virtues and Vices of the Old West series.
The last book included is The Darkest Corner by Liliana Hart! I love how different this book is from the others. All of the books are so diverse, and it gives the reader a variety of choices to read.
Here is the synopsis:
New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Liliana Hart’s first book in her suspenseful Gravediggers series, featuring an elite group of mysterious men who might be dead to the world, but are also tasked with saving it—and no one can ever know.
The Gravediggers aren’t exactly what they seem. They’re the most elite of the world’s fighting forces—and all they have in common is that they’ve been betrayed by the countries they’ve died for. Because they are dead. To their country, their military, and their families.
Sometimes the dead do rise…
Deacon Tucker is a dead man walking. A former black ops agent, he was disavowed and stripped of all honor before being recruited as a Gravedigger. But his honor and good name no longer matter, because no one knows he’s alive, and he’ll never get the recognition he deserves. His mission is simple: save the world or die trying. And for God’s sake, don’t ever fall in love. That’s a rule punishable by death. The kind of death a man can’t be brought back from.
Tess Sherman is the only mortician in Last Stop, Texas. She has no idea how Deacon Tucker ended up in her funeral home, but she’ll eat her hat if he’s only a funeral home assistant. Deacon is dangerous, deadly, and gorgeous. And she knows her attraction to him can only end in heartache.
Deacon is on a mission to stop the most fatal terror attack the world has ever known—what’s known as The Day of Destiny—a terrorist’s dream. But when he discovers Tess has skills he can use to stop them, he has to decide if he can trust her with secrets worth dying for. And, most important, he has to decide if he can trust her with his heart.
Final Thought: Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss is a great box to bring you new romance, mystery and assorted books in various genres. The book choices are always diverse, and I love how the box brings you enough books to fill up your month! If you are a fan of new romance, suspense, and mystery novels, then Fresh Fiction Box Not to Miss really IS a box that you cannot miss!
[image error]
*NOTE: Peachy Keen Reviews received this box to review.
Book Review: Sin and Cider by K. Reese
Title: Sin and Cider
Author: K. Reese
Rating: 3/5
Synopsis:
MacIntosh
Feeling discontent in the big city and hoping to find what’s missing in her life, MacIntosh Layne decides to go back to her roots. Ready for a refresh, she heads home to her family’s orchard in Tennessee for the summer. What she doesn’t count on rediscovering is her attraction to her brother’s charming best friend, Lawson Westbrook. The main star in her dreams growing up, he’s the perfect blend of Southern gentleman and sex in a flannel—rugged, successful, and more handsome than ever.
Lawson
Lawson can’t believe Mac Layne is all grown up. No longer the gangly teen who went away to college, she’s all woman now and he’s eager to get reacquainted on a carnal level. As they continue to cross paths and their mutual attraction intensifies, he makes an enticing proposal.
A Choice Must be Made
Will Mac give in to the sinful temptation of the temporary arrangement Law is offering? Or will they find something sweeter than the cider they’ve been brewing together?
Review:
Sin and Cider is a classic romance based on a girl (MacIntosh) returning to her hometown and becoming reacquainted with a past love interest (Lawson). Lawson, in this scenario, sees how MacIntosh has grown and he begins to show interest in her. While I appreciate this trope, I don’t like how it makes MacIntosh only seem desirable once she has filled out and physically grown. This turns Lawson into a chauvinistic male character while using MacIntosh’s naivety against her. However, I did love the setting of Sin and Cider since it was set in the south, and southern gentlemen are my weakness.
Despite the classic roles of the characters, K. Reese has a way of making the reader fall in love with her characters. Reese created characters that stood out in her plot, and she made the classic “old flame” stereotype her own. I enjoyed the spice that the main character, MacIntosh, had to offer, and Lawson brought a fine bout of eye candy to the table with simplistic charm. The southern summer setting of Tennesse brings the reader a taste of classic summer romance, and I felt refreshed after finishing the novel. Sin and Cider brings the right amount of classic romance stunts to entice the reader while introducing the reader to a new setting and a memorable cast of characters. Reese does well with character development, and I enjoyed watching MacIntosh and Lawson grow throughout the novel. Both characters contributed to the evolution of the other, and I can’t get either of them out of my mind.
Sin and Cider is an excellent summer romance to kick off your summer reading, and I highly suggest the southern charm that it brings! You won’t be able to get this classic love story out of your head.


