Clean Romance for Christmas and Giveaway: Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

His Hometown Yuletide Vow

(Pacific Cove Romance #1)

By Carol Ross

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 249 Pages

November 30, 2021 by Harlequin Heartwarming

All he wants for Christmas

Is a second chance…

Derrick Bright’s baseball career may be over, but his brother’s is just starting—until a scandal threatens to end things. PR specialist Anne McGrath hasn’t spoken to Derrick since he left her eleven years ago. But she agrees to help for his brother’s sake. Escaping the press in Pacific Cove allows them to reconnect. Will she accept Derrick’s vow and make his Christmas dreams finally come true?

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Excerpt

“I didn’t even know you were participating in the auction until I saw the program tonight. Before I could find you myself, a friend introduced me to Todd, and Todd asked if I’d be willing to meet you...” Derrick’s mouth pulled up on one side like he was trying not to smile. He was all boyish innocence and every bit as appealing as Anne remembered as he added, “He, uh, he actually asked me if I’d flirt with you a little.”

Anne choked out a surprised laugh. “Thank you for sparing us both that awkwardness.”

Grinning, he assured her, “It wouldn’t be awkward for me.” His gaze traveled down and settled on a spot. “You have a little smudge of something on your dress. Let me guess—ice cream?”

She frowned. A combination of embarrassment and discomfort blazed through her. How dare he draw on their former intimacy like this?

Glancing down, she tugged clumsily on her wrap and thought up a lie. “No, it’s, um...oil.”

“Oil?” he repeated skeptically.

“Yep.” She shrugged and stared him down. “Moonlighting on the oil rig.”

He started to smile, to call her out, but then seemed to pick up on her back-off signal. He cleared his throat and composed his features. “How have you been, Anne?”

“For all eleven of the years it’s been since I’ve seen you?” She heard the clear edge in her voice. There was a chance she hadn’t gotten over this quite as well as she’d believed. But you know what? What he’d done had been really...hurtful, and perhaps she was still a tad angry. Now that she thought about it, there was no rule stating she had to make this reunion easy on him. 

 

Excerpted from His Hometown Yuletide Vow by Carol Ross, Copyright © 2021 by Carol Ross. Published by Harlequin Heartwarming.

About the Author

USA Today and national bestselling author Carol Ross grew up in small-town America right between the Pacific Ocean and the Cascade Mountains, in a place where you can go deep sea fishing in the morning and then hit the ski slopes the same afternoon. The daughter of free-range parents, she developed a love of adventure and the outdoors at a very early age. She’s grateful for the “research material” that every questionable decision, adrenaline-charged misstep, and near-death experience has provided.

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Tour Schedule
(Posts go live on the day they're scheduled.)

December 7th: Launch

December 8th: Nancy Campbell Allen - The Matchmaker's Lonely Heart

December 9th: Rachael Anderson - Five Kisses

December 10th: Sarah M. Eden - The Merchant and the Rogue

December 11th: Arlem Hawks - Georgana's Secret

December 12th: Jess Heileman - The Nabob's Daughter 

December 13th: Krista Jensen - Miracle Creek Christmas

December 14th: Jen Geigle Johnson - A Christmas Kiss

December 15th: Josi S. Kilpack - Love and Lavender

December 16th: Carla Laureano - Discovered by Love series

December 17th: Sarah L. McConkie - Meet Me Under the Kissing Bough

December 18th: Carol Ross - His Hometown Yuletide Vow

December 19th: Nichole Van - Brotherhood of the Black Tartan series

December 20th: Anneka R. Walker - Brides and Brothers

December 21st: Camron Wright - Christmas by Accident

December 22nd: Julie Wright - A Captain for Caroline Gray

December 23rd: Grand Finale

 

Tour Giveaway

One winner will receive a $75 (USD) Amazon E-Gift Card

Open internationally
Ends December 29, 2021

ENTER HERE

Book Blitz and Giveaway: Montana Match by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Montana Match

(The Blackwell Sisters #4)

By Carol Ross

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

November 1, 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Thanksgiving in Montana

Is about family—and love!

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for Fiona Harrison to turn her life around. And she is sure finding a suitable husband will please her newfound family in Montana. When a dating app sends her every dud in town, handsome bartender Simon Clarke offers to be her matchmaker. If only Simon fit her criteria… Learning the truth about the twinkle-eyed charmer could change everything—but for better or worse?

USA TODAY Bestselling Author

The Blackwell Sisters

Book 1: Montana Welcome by Melinda Curtis

Book 2: Montana Wishes by Amy Vastine

Book 3: Montana Dreams by Anna J. Stewart

Book 4: Montana Match by Carol Ross

Book 5: Montana Wedding by Cari Lynn Webb

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IndieBound | Walmart | Apple Books | Google Play | Kobo

Excerpt

Fiona groaned. “Now I have to go back to dating.”

That moment, Simon recognized later, was his undoing. Specifically, that sound, the heart-wrenching sound of Fiona’s sadness, weariness and despair. It dug right into him and precipitated his final descent into foolishness. That, and the idea of watching her continue to waste time on these mismatched “matches” via her bogus family-influenced profile. What if she grew so tired of the process that she gave up and settled on someone? He couldn’t handle it if she ended up with some guy even weirder than Drew or as domineering as Gary. If she was going to go through with this husband search, she deserved one worthy of her. He needed to make sure of that.

“No, Fiona, you don’t.”

“Unfortunately, I do,” she countered.

“You don’t even like this internet dating stuff.”

Fiona gazed quickly and impatiently skyward before focusing back on him. “That’s not exactly news, Simon. I’ve already told you I don’t. On paper, however, it should work.” She executed a theatrical air punch and forced a smile, and added, “It will work. Trying to stay optimistic here, but it’s getting difficult. I’m beginning to think I’m the problem.”

“You are most definitely not the problem.”

“Yeah? Well, so far... Never mind, I hate being negative. Ugh. Did you hear that? I just did it again. I’m usually not a negative person, but since I’ve moved to Montana things have not worked out like I thought they would and...” Her eyes widened as if surprised by her comment. “You know what? You don’t need to hear this. I’ll figure it out. I always do.”

“Maybe I can help.”

“That is highly unlikely.”

“Neg-a-tive,” he crooned in a singsong voice. “We’re not doing negative anymore, remember?”

“Right.” Twitching and extra cute, her mouth barely resisted a smile.

“I have a dating proposition for you.”

“Very funny,” she returned drily.

“I’m not talking about me,” he said. Just gathering the words felt painful, but he forged on, “Shut down your dating profile, and I’ll find you a guy.”

Her eyebrows darted up as her mouth opened and then snapped shut, leaving an expression that reflected the pure bizarreness of the suggestion. “You are going to find me a guy?”

“I know a lot of people around here.” Ned and Val knew even more. He would enlist their advice, he decided, growing more encouraged by his suggestion. “Let me be your matchmaker.”

“Why would you do that?”

“Because I care about you. I can’t stand to see you on these dates, disappointed over and over again.” If that gave away more of his feelings than was wise, he didn’t care.

When she didn’t answer, he posed it another way. “How is my setting you up with a guy I think you’ll like, and who I think is worthy of you, any different than your family helping you fill out your profile to attract a certain type of guy?”

“Are you saying that you think you can do a better job of finding me a potential husband than my own family?”

“Well, I know you and I know the guys. So...” He shrugged one shoulder dramatically. “What do you have to lose? I’ll be leaving in a few weeks anyway. If it doesn’t work, you reactivate your profile and go back to doing it your way.”

About the Author

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

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | BookBub

Blitz Giveaway

One winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and an ebook of Montana Match

One winner will receive an ebook of Montana Match

Open internationally

Ends November 6, 2020

ENTER HERE

Book Blitz and Giveaway: Second Chance for the Single Dad by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Second Chance for the Single Dad
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
March 1st 2020 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She’ll save him a dance…

…if he follows his heart.

Dance teacher Camile Wynn has a new student. Reclusive Rhys McGrath is learning to waltz so he can take his orphaned niece to a father-daughter dance. Camile is surprised by her connection with him, but there’s a generous heart behind Rhys’s awkward exterior. When she learns Rhys could lose custody of his niece, Camile goes behind his back to help him…but will her lies end up hurting him instead?

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Excerpt

Two lessons, one dance, Camile reminded herself. Get in, get out, done.

“Good! You got this. Again,” she said.

Rhys repeated the movement.

“Now, this time, don’t stop. Just keep box stepping, and I’ll do it with you.” They performed the movements together with Camile counting and snapping her fingers.

Still moving, she danced around in a half circle until she was facing him, mirroring his steps. “Excellent. And there you have it. Now you’re going to try it with me.”

He stopped in his tracks, brow lines back in full force.

Facing him, Camile patted her left shoulder and instructed, “Right hand here.” He complied, and she ignored how nice the heat of his hand felt as it seeped through the thin fabric of her tank top. “Left arm up.” He obeyed. Silently, she admitted there was something vaguely satisfying about barking orders at him. But this action, the press of his palm against hers, the feel of the work-roughened texture of his skin, her hand enfolded in his, was slightly more difficult to ignore. She told herself it was just the shock of it all, being here with him. Dancing.

“Ah,” he said, tilting his chin toward the floor again. “Now I see why you’re wearing heels.”

“Is that your way of insulting my height?” she joked, breaking her own rule before she could stop herself.

He brought his gaze back up and locked it on to hers, and Camile was a little taken aback by the intensity she saw there. “No. Absolutely not. Why would that be insulting? I’m sorry if you took it that way.”

“Um, it’s—it’s fine,” she stammered. “I was joking. I know I’m short. It would be difficult to forget as the only short person in a family of very tall people. You know, recessive genes or whatever.”

“That would not be the case,” he said. “Height is polygenic. And there are other variables. It’s more quantitative than that. So the term recessive doesn’t apply when it comes to height.”

Camile squinted up at him, trying to decide if he was serious. When he didn’t blink, she said, “I know. At least three genes are involved and like six alleles, right?” Genetics had been one of her favorite premed courses. “Plus, there are nutritional and environmental factors. I wasn’t being literal. I was exaggerating for effect. Making fun of the fact that I drew the short straw in my family.” She added a wink.

Gaze narrowed in on her, he shook his head a couple of times very slowly as if thinking carefully about how to respond.

Embarrassed by her lame joke, she clarified, “That was a bad pun. Sorry.”

When he spoke, his eyes traveled over her while his mouth hinted at a smile. “No, you’re wrong. It was not a bad pun. It was a very good pun. But there’s nothing inferior about your genetic fate. Quite the contrary. Height is also a very subjective preference as far as attractiveness goes. Studies have shown that shorter women with discernible curves are the most symmetrically pleasing. I happen to agree with the consensus.”

Camile stared into his earnest blue eyes and felt her lips part. What the...? Her neck went hot as she tried to wrap her brain around this moment. Obviously, the man was brilliant in a way that resulted in a unique perspective. But the part that had her speechless was the fact that he’d just given her a really lovely compliment. Like, spellbindingly good. And he seemed sincere. Granted, the delivery wasn’t the smoothest, but the meaning was there. It also caught her off guard and made her feel warm in even more surprising ways. Ways she shouldn’t feel. Not with Rhys McGrath, date absconder, social snob and possibly worse, if any of the rumors were true.

About the Author

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

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | BookBub

Blitz Giveaway

One winner will receive a $25 Amazon e-Gift Card and a copy of Second Chance for the Single Dad (signed print copy if US/CAN, ebook if international)

Ends March 6, 2020

ENTER HERE

Review: Keeping Her Close: A Clean Romance by Carol Ross

Keeping Her Close: A Clean Romance by Carol Ross

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blurb: 

Hired to protect her

…unable to resist her
The job sounds simple: teach a businessman’s daughter how to stay safe. But former navy SEAL turned bodyguard Kyle Frasier has a personal motive, too. Harper Jansen is his late best friend’s fiancée. Loyalty demands he protect her, not that Harper looks in need of rescuing. In fact, it’s Kyle who needs help—balancing duty with his desire to build a life with the one woman he shouldn’t want…



My Review: 

Keeping Her Close is the third installment from A Pacific Cove Romance series by Carol Ross. This is the first book I have read by Carol Ross. She has earned herself a new fan. I loved this sweet and heartwarming romance. I enjoyed getting to know Harper and Kyle. They were so entertaining together. I found myself laughing at some scenes.
I am giving Keeping Her Close five plus stars. I would love other books in A Pacific Cove Romance series.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.


View all my reviews

Book Blitz and Giveaway: Keeping Her Close by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Release Blitz for

Keeping Her Close

By Carol Ross

Keeping Her Close
(Pacific Cove #3)
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
October 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Hired to protect her

…unable to resist her

The job sounds simple: teach a businessman’s daughter how to stay safe. But former navy SEAL turned bodyguard Kyle Frasier has a personal motive, too. Harper Jansen is his late best friend’s fiancée. Loyalty demands he protect her, not that Harper looks in need of rescuing. In fact, it’s Kyle who needs help—balancing duty with his desire to build a life with the one woman he shouldn’t want…

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Excerpt

“So…” she drawled. “How are we going to do this? Lecture and then lab? Or do you have like a personal security textbook, Stay Safe 101? Just to warn you, I’m awful at pop quizzes. After the first one, I will resent you for the entire semester and not perform to my highest capability.”

Kyle sat back in his seat, seeming to relax a bit as he pondered her tongue-in-cheek questions. And probably her. Had he been nervous that she wouldn’t agree to hire him? That thought was rather endearing. It made him seem both human and normal, and it gave her confidence in her decision.

But only briefly because his expression went stony again. Like granite. Hard, scary granite.

Leaning forward, he placed his forearms on his thighs and tented his fingers. “It’s all lab, Harper. One hundred percent hands-on. And we’re going to start by getting you in shape. Calisthenics for one hour every morning at 4:30 a.m., followed by a five-mile run on the beach.” Tipping his head, he added, “But not your typical run. Every other day, we’ll add an obstacle course to simulate tactical evasion. And three days a week, we’ll have what I like to call target practice.”

What. The. Whatty-what? Harper opened her mouth, shut it and finally managed to stutter, “Um, target what? I don’t know how to… I mean, I don’t—”

He straightened, interrupting her with a stop-sign hand. “Relax, it’s not what you think. You won’t be doing any shooting. I’ll be shooting at you with a paintball gun while you try to dodge it. The less paint on your person, the more lunch you earn. Positive reinforcement can be helpful in specific, isolated training situations.”

Harper knew she was gaping. Was he out of his mind? Had the word normal actually crossed her mind in conjunction with this lunatic? He was as messed up as Owen. More, possibly. She was still trying to decide how to proceed when his face broke into a wide smile, or at least she hoped it was a smile. The whole time he’d been here she’d yet to see it, so she couldn’t be sure. She kept still, waiting, in case she was misinterpreting the gesture. Maybe he was wincing or had something stuck in his teeth.

Finally, he said, “Harper, I’m joking. I do have some basic protocol that we’ll cover. Your dad wants you to become an expert with your security system. But otherwise, we’ll just plan on doing this situationally, taking it one day at a time. Does that work for you?”

Huh. She had not seen that coming. But she also liked it. A grin crept over her, and she laughed. He joined her, and Harper was momentarily mesmerized by the deep, rich sound. The smile that lingered transformed him. Harper met his gaze and warmth spread through her chest, making her head a little light, her thoughts a bit fuzzy. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d laughed like this, felt so at ease.

That thought was sobering in itself, melting her laughter away. Because this situation was anything but easy; she officially had herself a bodyguard.

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

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

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│BookBub

Blitz Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card and a copy of of Keeping Her Close (ebook if outside the US, signed print if in the US)

- 2 additional winners will receive a copy of Keeping Her Close (ebook if outside the US, signed print if in the US)

Ends October 5, 2019

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Reivew: In the Doctor's Arms by Carol Ross

In the Doctor's Arms by Carol Ross

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blurb:

Can he stop the one who got away—

from getting away again?

Everyone in her Alaskan town hopes Iris James is back for good. Including Dr. Flynn Ramsey, who stole her heart when they were awkward teenagers. She realizes he’s planning an encore, but a prestigious job in Washington, DC, is calling to her. Only, ever since their kiss at her brother’s wedding, Iris isn’t sure about anything. Except her reignited feelings for Flynn… 



My Review:

In the Doctor’s Arms is the sixth installment from Carol Ross’s series, Seasons of Alaska. I have not read the previous books in the series and did not feel lost by not reading them. So, in my opinion, this book can be read as a stand alone. However, I would love to go and read them to see what had happened prior.
I enjoyed In the Doctor’s Arms. Iris and Flynn’s story is so sweet and heartwarming. I loved their chemistry together. I found myself giggling at some scenes. There was an element of suspense added to the plot that really made me want to find out what would happen on the following pages. I had no problem reading this book in one sitting.
I am giving In the Doctor’s Arms four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who love a well written clean and sweet romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.


View all my reviews

Book Blitz and Giveaway: In the Doctor's Arms by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Release Blitz for

In the Doctor's Arms

By Carol Ross

In the Doctor's Arms
(Seasons of Alaska #6)
By Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
March 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Can he stop the one who got away—

from getting away again?

Everyone in her Alaskan town hopes Iris James is back for good. Including Dr. Flynn Ramsey, who stole her heart when they were awkward teenagers. She realizes he’s planning an encore, but a prestigious job in Washington, DC, is calling to her. Only, ever since their kiss at her brother’s wedding, Iris isn’t sure about anything. Except her reignited feelings for Flynn…

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Excerpt

With Flynn’s hand branding Iris’s bare back, he led her to the dance floor. Gentle notes of a popular love song filled the air, so Flynn gathered her in his embrace and made dancing seem as easy as everything else he did. The satisfied smile playing on his lips caused Iris’s heart to execute a slow cartwheel inside her chest. She should be used to this, to him, by now.

Lowering her voice to a whisper, she said, “Thank you for that. I owe you one. It was probably a little over-the-top, but I appreciate your dramatic flair. I’m sure they’re still talking about it.”

He dipped his head, and whispered near her ear, “I could not possibly care any less than I do about Faith or Ashley. And I only care about Todd in that I don’t want you singing any duets with him.”

“I hadn’t planned to but...” Her throat went dry because his hand had returned to her back, where his thumb caressed the skin along the edge of her dress. “What are you doing?”

“Dancing. Is there something going on between you and Cricket?”

“What?” she answered, alarmed by the subject change. Did he know about the flying lessons? She wasn’t ready for anyone to know about that yet. “Like what? What do you mean by ‘something’?”

Eyes narrowed and assessing, he clarified, “Are you two romantically involved?”

“Oh.” She laughed, and then paused to process the question. She didn’t want to tell him the truth, but she also didn’t want him thinking that. “That’s not what’s going on,” she said, and then realized that she’d inferred that something was.

“What is going on, then?”

“Nothing. I mean, he is helping me with something. But we’re just friends. He’s practically like a brother to me, you know that.”

“I do, I was just confirming it before I did something.”

“What?”

Tightening his hold, he twirled her around. She said, “Oh, I get it. They’re still watching, right?”

Flynn chuckled softly, shifting his focus to meet her gaze again. His brown eyes seemed to burn into hers. “No, I don’t think you do get it,” he murmured. “But then again, I didn’t really get it, either.”

“Get what? Flynn, what are you...?” Her question trailed off because he was staring at her mouth. The heat from her cheeks was apparently burning through to her brain because she could not think straight. Much less talk.

“Maybe this will help.”

Then his mouth brushed against hers in the sweetest, most perfect caress. Flynn was kissing her? Yes, he sure was, and his lips were velvety soft and completely perfect, and she couldn’t—she wouldn’t—think past that. Instead, she kissed him back, pressing her mouth more firmly to his. One hand came up to grip his shoulder. Before she could do more than that, his soft lips were gone.

“Iris,” he whispered, “I’m...” He closed his eyes and rested his forehead against hers for a second before slipping a hand around the back of her neck. He pressed a gentle kiss against her forehead and tucked her in close again. “Give me a second.”

Iris focused on trying to move air in and out of her lungs, but with her cheek pressed against his chest, every breath was Flynn-scented with hints of spicy soap and cedar boughs. Flynn had just kissed her. What did that mean? What did she do now? Panic welled inside of her because it couldn’t mean anything.

A chuckle vibrated through him. “That should give everyone something to talk about, huh?”

Of course, she realized, he’d kissed her for her, to help her. Thank goodness, he’d broken it off before she’d said, or done, something truly embarrassing. Her cheeks ignited with heat as she imagined herself clinging to him like a spider monkey on the dance floor.

Other Books in the Series

About the Author

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

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│BookBub

Blitz Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card and an ebook of In the Doctor's Arms (open internationally)

- 2 additional winners will receive a copy of In the Doctor's Arms (ebook if outside the US, signed print if in the US)

Ends March 5, 2019

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Review: Defending Christmas by Carol Ross

Blurb (from Amazon):

Defending Christmas is Book 2 in the Christmas Wedding series and part of the 12 Days of Heartwarming Christmas - a 2018 clean romance anthology from some of your favorite Harlequin Heartwarming romance authors.

Christmas Town’s city attorney Lincoln Vasser suspects the multi-million-dollar lawsuit threatening the town is a fraud, but he needs help proving it. Private Investigator Jax Marshall comes highly recommended, but when Lincoln hires her he can’t quite figure out why. Her laid-back attitude, questionable work ethic, and apparent unconcern for the urgency of the case rub him the wrong way. It doesn't make sense for him to be attracted to her.

Jax Marshall knows that taking a case for the arrogant Lincoln Vasser is a mistake. But when he makes her an offer much more tempting than money, she agrees. She soon wishes she hadn’t. The guy is demanding and uptight, and, worst of all, he keeps trying to tell her how to do her job! He's almost completely unlikable. Almost.

One thing they can agree on is that happy ever afters are strictly for fairytales and Christmas Town myths. Finding a way to work together is difficult enough, admitting that they’re falling in love is going to take an extra little nudge from that very Christmas Town magic they don’t believe in.

My Review: 

Defending Christmas is a delightful and sweet read. It is a quick story that I had read in no time. It is full of adventure, mystery, and romance. I loved the interaction between Jax and Lincoln. It was fun when they were together. There were a few true to life emotional scenes that tugged at my heart. 

I give Defending Christmas five stars. I recommend for readers to add this magical tale to their Christmas reading list. 

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Review: The Rancher's Twins by Carol Ross

Blurb (from Goodreads):

She's not the country nanny he advertised for

But she could be perfect for him...

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



Review: 

The Rancher’s Twins starts an all new series, Return of the Blackwell Brothers. It, also, my first experience with Carol Ross’ books. She does not disappoint. I will definitely be looking for more by her in the future. 

In this installment of the series, a reader is introduced to a handsome rancher and single father of two precious little girls, Jon Blackwell. He needs a nanny for his girls. But his idea of a nanny did not involve someone like Lydia Newbury. At first, I would have to argue with him. I was not sure what to think of her, but she quickly grew on me. She is surrounded with a little bit of mystery that gave the story some suspense. What could she be hiding? 

I liked The Rancher’s Twins and recommend it for readers who are looking for a good, sweet and heartwarming read. 

Five plus stars. 

I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

Book Blitz and Giveaway: The Rancher's Twins by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Welcome to the Book Blitz for

The Rancher's Twins

By Carol Ross

Learn more about the start of this new Harlequin Heartwarming series, read an
excerpt from this first book, sign up to review them all, and enter the giveaway below...

Note from the Author

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

Each subsequent book in the series will release as follows:

The Rancher's Twins by Carol Ross, August 1st
The Rancher's Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb, September 1st

The Rancher's Redemption by Melinda Curtis, October 1st

The Rancher's Fake Fiancée by Amy Vastine, November 1st

The Rancher's Homecoming by Anna J. Stewart, December 1st

In book one, The Rancher’s Twins, single father and rancher Jon Blackwell needs help. His five-year-old twin girls are out of control, it’s calving season, and his grandfather is MIA. Hiring a real nanny, a professional childcare worker from an accredited agency with years of experience, turns out to be the best decision ever. Lydia is amazing. She adores the girls. The girls love her. Even as Jon wonders if she’s too good to be true, he finds himself smitten, too. What he doesn’t know is that Lydia isn’t a professional at all. She’s on the run and using the ranch to hide out. Just when Jon begins to believe that life might actually be as sweet as Lydia’s smile, her past shows up and threatens to destroy them all.

― Carol

The Rancher's Twins

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

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

She’s not the country nanny he advertised for

But she could be perfect for him…

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

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Excerpt

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

“But...how is that possible?”

“What do you mean?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Thank you. I know I want better.”

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

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

Her attempt at levity didn’t work.

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

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

Review Opportunities

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

About the Author

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

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Blitz Giveaway

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

- Ends August 5th

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Grand Finale Blitz and Giveaway: Bachelor Remedy by Carol Ross

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Bachelor Remedy

By Carol Ross

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops

you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

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

Ally my best,
Carol

It's All About the Romance - Excerpt

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

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

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

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

Inside The Mind of an Avid Reader - Review

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

underneath the covers - Interview

5) What inspired this book?

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

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

Remembrancy - Review

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

Paulette's Papers - Excerpt

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

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

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

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

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

Becky on Books - Interview

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

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

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

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

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

E-Romance News - Excerpt

She froze.

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

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

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

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

The Power of Words - Review

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

...Bachelor Remedy is a wonderfully entertaining read. Highly recommended."

Rockin' Book Reviews - Reviews

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

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

The story was very well-written, captivating the reader's interest most of the time." - LAWonder10

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

I would highly recommend this book to other readers." - Vickie

I Am A Reader - Excerpt

“James. Tag James,” he supplied.

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

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

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

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

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

Janice's Book Reviews - Review

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

Locks, Hooks and Books - Excerpt

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

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

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

Until him.

Harlie's Books - Excerpt & Review

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

“What?”

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

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

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

Nicole's Book Musings - Excerpt

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

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

Among the Reads - Review

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

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

Two Points of Interest - Review

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

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

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

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

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

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

Hardcover Feedback - Review

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

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

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

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

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

Teatime and Books - Excerpt

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

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

“Don’t try what on you?”

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

Deal Sharing Aunt - Review

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

Don't forget to enter the giveaway below and also check out the special post and exclusive giveaway at Harlequin Junkie on April 25th!

Bachelor Remedy

(Seasons of Alaska #5)
by Carol Ross
Contemporary Romance

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

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

and the cure for a perennial bachelor?

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

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Other Books in the Series

About the Author

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

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│BookBub

Tour Giveaway

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

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

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