Today I am thrilled to welcome Monica James to my blog.

Having recently read Dirty Dix (A Hard Love Romance Book 1) and Wicked Dix (A Hard Love Romance Book 2) I just had to ask if she would consider an interview. I was over the moon when she agreed!

For those who don’t know already, could you tell us about yourself and your books please?

Well, I’m a humbled girl from Australia, who is incredibly grateful to be doing an interview with someone halfway across the world. I’m a little wacky at times, and talk incessantly when nervous. I’m obsessed with lip gloss, cats, and chucks!

Life inspires me to write. I love being able to tell a story, and share my vision with anyone who reads my work.

I’m the author of the: I SURRENDER SERIES which was published in 2013. It is self published. I have also written the SOMETHING LIKE NORMAL SERIES, which is published by Limitless Publishing. And my latest series: A HARD LOVE ROMANCE series is published by BOOKOUTURE.

Foreign Right have also been acquired worldwide by:

Hebrew rights sold to: Kinneret Zmora

German rights sold to: Heyne, Random House

French rights sold to: Hugo & Cie

Portuguese rights sold to: Planeta

Where did/do you get your ideas from?

From living. I know it sounds ridiculous, but reading, watching, listening, and feeling are my biggest inspiration.

Are any of your characters based (however loosely) on anyone you know?

Not at all. But in saying that, I hate to admit it, but with every character I write, there is in fact a piece of me in them. It may be minuscule, but I must be able to relate to my characters to be able to articulate their voice. In no way am I saying that my characters are based on me—that would get boring fast!—but each character holds a small part of me in their DNA. So, for those of who have read DIRTY DIX, are you wondering which parts of me are ingrained into Dixon and Juliet? I can promise you, I am not a raging she-devil or a promiscuous manwh@re!

How do you pick your character’s names?

Easy—they’re names I would call my children (or pets!)

Can you share your writing process with us, in a nutshell?

I don’t have a process per se, but I do like to write while listening to music, as music in most circumstances helps me get into a certain frame of mind and allows me to get lost in my writing.

I feel so blessed because 99% of the time I can write anytime, anyplace, anywhere.

Writing each book varies tremendously. Getting the story down usually only takes me a few weeks, but the reworking and overanalysing is my problem. Seriously, I am my own worst critic.

Do you have a favourite author?

This is such a hard question. It does vary, depending on what mood I’m in, but my go to authors are Anne Rice and William Shakespeare.

Were you a big reader as a child?

YES!! And I still am. I was, and I guess still am, addicted to Dr. Seuss.

When did you start to write?

When I was about 12— I entered a writing competition and won! The piece was on the first rock concert I ever attended.

What are you working on right now?

I actually am working on two different manuscripts at the moment. My agent has my new project, which I hope you’ll all love. And I might be working on a character you’ve all grown to love…watch this space!

When can we look forward to a new release?

I really hope mid/late year. I’m just about to hit the USA to celebrate the release of my new series, and will be in The UK in July! I will also fit in a tour of my stomping ground in August, and then back to Europe later in the year! What a mouthful!

How can readers keep in touch with you?

Author Links

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/authormonicajames

Twitter:https://twitter.com/monicajames81

Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/MonicaJames

Website:http://monicajamesbooks.blogspot.com.au/

Pinterest:http://www.pinterest.com/monicajames81/

Thanks so much for having me. It was fun xo

Thank you so much for joining me, Monica. I really hope Dr Dixon Mathews will be back sometime soon! It’s great to hear you’ll be visiting us in the UK soon also 🙂 I hope you’re having a fabulous time in America!

If you haven’t read them already, you really should add The Hard Love Romance series to your list. I can’t recommend them highly enough!

Dirty Dix

If you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review HERE

Wicked Dix

My review for Wicked Dix can be found HERE

I will now be adding Monica’s entire back catalogue to my TBR list! You can also do the same by visiting her Amazon author page HERE

Many thanks again to Monica for joining me on my blog.

Purchased/downloaded….

 Flowers For The Dead

“A chillingly drawn serial killer. Will have you looking over your shoulder and under your bed… Original, gripping, with a deep psychological impact,” Sunday Mirror

“Enthralling, tense and moving,” Real People magazine

ADAM WILL DO ANYTHING TO MAKE YOU HAPPY. EVEN IF IT KILLS YOU.
Adam Bourne is a serial killer who thinks he is a saviour. When he murders young women and cuts off their lips, he believes he has done it to make them happy.
How did he become warped from the sensitive four-year-old who adored his gran and the fairy tales she read to him? What turned him into a monster who stalks his victims? And what is he trying to say with the bouquets he sends?
When he meets Laura Weir, Adam weaves a fairy tale romance around them. A tale she has no idea she is part of. As he hatches his twisted plan for their fairy tale ending, can anyone stop him before he creates the ultimate sacrifice to love?

 Sins Of The Father 

The past returns to haunt Nick Randall when a celebrity biographer claims to have evidence of his late father’s involvement in a terrible crime. If it comes out, the tabloids will have a field day: Eddie Randall was a popular comedy actor in the 1960s. Nick goes in search of the truth and unexpectedly finds it impacts on a major insurance scam he is investigating. Then his estranged wife is found dead – and Nick realises that an unknown enemy is stalking him…

The acclaimed first thriller from author David Harrison, aka TOM BALE, author of SEE HOW THEY RUN

 A Perception Of Sin 

A Perception of Sin begins in modern-day London
with a suicide bomb attack aboard an underground train.
During the subsequent forensic investigation,
DNA taken from one of the victims will reveal a terrible secret.

This book traverses the horrors of Bergen-Belsen,
suicide and violent death as it explores the idea that
a true sense of sin is intrinsic to a moral existence,
yet is often malleable and slippery to grasp.

 Coast To Coast 

Best friends Angela and Min are separated when Min’s family moves away to the other side of the country. Sending cheery letters to help them through, they write about all the changes the move has created.

How will Min settle into life in a new town without Angela on the doorstep? Can Angela motivate herself to follow her dreams without the promise of cake? Who is the mysterious Monty? Just what is scaly leg?

This is a funny look at a lasting friendship that withstands the ups and downs of life, chickens, dogs and less than perfect families, from one coast to another.

Added to my Wish List….

Have you read any of the above?

Happy Publication  Day to Monica James and Bookouture! 🙂

Publisher: Bookouture (24th March 2016)

5/5*

OH MY WORD!

Having finished Wicked Dix (A Hard Love Romance Book 2) this morning, two words spring to mind… emotionally exhausting (in a good way, of course!).

Having read Dirty Dix (A Hard love Romance Book 1) earlier this month (if you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review HERE) I fell a little bit in love with Dr. Dixon Mathews and I couldn’t wait to read Book 2. As with Dirty Dix I was totally engrossed from the first page. I saw one reviewer describe it as captivating and it truly is. From the moment I woke up this morning I did absolutely nothing but sit in bed, with a coffee, reading this book. I just had to finish it! I am now suffering from a major book hangover!

I don’t want to say too much regarding the plot as I don’t want to spoil it for anyone, especially if you haven’t read Book 1 yet, as this picks up where that one finished. Needless to say I have loved it.

The relationship between Dixon and Madison reminds me of my own, in a way. I count my blessings daily. I’m lucky enough to have a husband I’m besotted with and who loves me the same way even after 16 years together (13 married). We haven’t had any of their drama though, thankfully! I totally believe there is one person for everyone, one person we could never live happily without. What is meant to be will be.

I think I actually forgot that these are fictional characters, as I was reading, as their emotions are so real. Of course, things are rarely straight forward where love is concerned, but I don’t think I’ve ever wanted two people to make things work more than these two. There were tears streaming down my face whilst reading this. I won’t tell you if they were tears of happiness or sadness, you’ll just have to read it for yourself, but it actually made my heart ache at times.

I also loved many of the other characters in this book, as with book 1. The friendship Dixon shares with Hunter and Finch is brilliant. Their banter still made me laugh out loud.

I also enjoyed Dixon’s relationship with his Father and with his work colleagues.

There are some pretty steamy scenes within this story, so if you like a bit of the raunchy stuff you won’t be disappointed, but this book is so much more than that. It is full of passion, love, friendship, family and heartache. I can’t recommend it highly enough (but read Book 1 first).

I am happy to say I am now a massive fan of Monica James’ 🙂

Many thanks to Bookouture and Monica James for my kindle copy via Netgalley.

You can buy your copy HERE 

Description:

I’ve always been a bad boy, with a very wicked reputation.

But then I met Madison – sweet, vulnerable, innocent Madison. She makes me feel as if there is hope for me. As if I could be a good man. I need her more than I need air to breathe.

There’s just one problem: Juliet. She’s a temptress who won’t take no for an answer. If I resist her, she’ll use our dirty secret to ruin everything with Madison. I don’t want to lose Madison, but can I really change?

This is my chance to prove that I can. But it’s going to be one hell of a ride. Are you ready?

Seriously sexy and totally addictive, Wicked Dix is the second in the Hard Love Romance series. Find out how it all began…Dirty Dix OUT NOW.

Read what everyone is saying about Wicked Dix:

‘Wow wow wow … even better than the first book … brilliantly done … I love this author, love this series and can’t wait to see what comes next.’ Fiona’s Book Reviews

‘Brilliant … a complete pageturner and had me gripped from start to finish and on the edge of my seat. Ultimately it was a gorgeous love story.’ Lozza’s Book Corner

‘A rollercoaster that will make you happy one minute, shatter your heart the next … I can not wait for more!’ Steph and Chris’s Book Review

‘How did Monica James manage to create a character that I absolutely loved, but also hated in equal measures? This book kept me up all night. Parts of it were painful to read. The urge to reach into the page and slap Dixon was strong. But through it all I knew Monica would not let me down. This is more than a rollercoaster of a book. It’s a standing in the open doors of an aeroplane waiting to jump kind of book. It’s a kick in the gut, cry your eyes out at times book.’ Emmbooks

‘I really loved both Dixon and Madison and was rooting for them … Fantastic series! It’s sexy, sweet, angsty, and funny … Awesome!’ Books Need TLC

‘I was captivated.’ Diva’s Book Blog

‘I love Dixon Matthews!! … I loved the ending and all those twists and turns … This is a great series for lovers of erotic romance and Monica James has created a brilliant “loveable rogue” character in Dixon Matthews. You know you ought to hate him … you just can’t help but cheer him on! … A highly recommended 5*.’ My Chestnut Reading Tree

‘A rollercoaster ride. I held my breath, my heart started beating in my ears, my neck got really really hot and I thought I would faint with anticipation!’ Sheila’s Book Corner

If you haven’t already, you really MUST read Dirty Dix first. You can buy your copy HERE

Publisher: Bookouture (8th April 2016)

5/5*

First of all, many thanks to Marcie 😉 Mel Sherratt and Bookouture for my ARC of The Second Chance Shoe Shop.

I make no secret of the fact that I am a massive fan of Mel’s / Marcie’s. I have genuinely loved everything she has written and I’m always very excited to read her new releases. I feel blessed to be able to read them prior to publication. I’ve been lucky enough to meet Mel a few times now and we chat fairly regularly via email, Facebook, Twitter etc. I like to think we are friends 🙂

If you still haven’t read any of Mel’s or Marcie’s books, you really should. You will love them!

Anyway, it took me all of my time not to start reading this immediately, but I was determined to save it for my weekend away in Northumberland and what a wonderful weekend it has been. Not only have I enjoyed the quality time with my husband and babies, but I have had the pleasure of getting to know Riley, Sadie, Esther, Dan, Cooper, Ash and the rest of the gang. What a lovely friendship they share. Riley, Sadie and Dan also work together at Chandler’s shoe shop. Having a job you love is a blessing and getting on well with those you work with is priceless. The shop isn’t doing so well though so, with Riley’s lead they embark on a social media campaign (even involving a flash mob dance) in an attempt to bring the customers in. Local journalist, Kim Nash 🙂 and photographer, Ethan, are on hand to help. All goes well initially, but nothing is ever that straight forward.

Riley hasn’t had much luck in love. After a long term relationship ended she thinks she might have finally met ‘the one’ in Nicholas, but he leaves her heart-broken too. When she meets Ethan and acknowledges there is a spark between them, she is reluctant to trust. Would he be worth the risk?

Sadie is grieving for her husband, Ross. He died a few months previously, of cancer. Her 6 year old daughter, Esther, helps to keep her going along with her job and her friends. She doesn’t know where she would be without them, but being a widow at 35 is not easy and worrying about the possibility of the shop closing doesn’t help. She’s happy to help with whatever it takes to keep it open. She can’t imagine working anywhere else.

Dan feels the same way. They are all so close and having to find another job would be hard. His love life isn’t great either and his friends mean the world to him. They need to keep the shop open!

I loved the banter between the group of friends. Their stories are very real and as with all friendships they have their ups and downs. All of the main characters are very likeable which helped to make this book a joy to read. I think I would get on with them in real life 🙂

Cooper’s friendship with Sadie is heart-warming. He is a lovely character.

It was funny, for me, reading about Paul and Christine (Sadie’s in-laws) as we have close friends (married) called Paul and Christine.

Dan made me laugh!

I even warmed to Suzanne in the end.

I was willing them all to succeed in keeping the shop open and for them to find the happiness they are craving.

All in all, this is a lovely story. I was hooked from the start and didn’t want to put it down, but as much as I wanted to keep reading, I didn’t want it to end either. Having said that, the ending is beautiful! It did make me cry.

I’m sure a lot of people will relate to these characters and their stories.

I recommend to everyone who loves a bit of romance, true friendship, a bit of a giggle and shoes!

#shoelove

Many thanks to Mel Sherratt (Marcie Steele) and Bookouture again for my ARC.

Proud as always to be part of Team Sherratt 🙂

You can pre-order your copy of The Second Chance Shoe Shop HERE

Description:

‘The Second Chance Shoe Shop is that rarest of treats, a story filled with warm and wonderful characters who feel like your best friends from the first page.’ Tilly Tennant

All Riley Flynn wants is to meet someone who makes her happy. But attracting the right kind of man is not easy, and with her heart still hurting from her last break-up, Riley believes she’ll never find love again.

A year ago, Sadie Stewart’s whole world was shattered when her husband, Ross, died. She has struggled to keep herself together for the sake of their young daughter, but with the anniversary of his death approaching, Sadie finds herself overwhelmed by grief.

Sadie and Riley work at Chandlers shoe shop, in the charming town of Hedworth. But when Chandlers is threatened with closure, the friends are confronted with the loss of not only their jobs, but also their support network – the glue that holds them together when they are close to breaking.

As they put together a plan to save their beloved shop, Sadie realises that she might just be learning to live again. Could it be that new beginnings are just round the corner? The campaign also finds Riley unexpectedly crossing paths with charming photographer, Ethan. Maybe her second chance at love is right under her feet …

A delightfully romantic tale of love, friendship and putting your best foot forward, for fans of Carole Matthews and Amanda Prowse.

Marcie Steele’s Amazon author page

About the author:

I’m Mel Sherratt but I also write under the name of Marcie Steele. I’m a romantic at heart and have always wanted to write about characters who were not necessarily involved in the darker side of life. Coffee, cakes and friends are three of my favourite things, hence Stirred with Love for my first book writing as Marcie Steele. My second, That’s What Friends are For, was published in December 2015 and my new book, The Second Chance Shoe Shop will be out on 8 April 2016.

As Mel, I write crime thrillers, psychological suspense and fiction with a punch – or grit-lit, as I call it. Shortlisted for the prestigious CWA (Crime Writer’s Association) Dagger in Library Award 2014, my inspiration comes from authors such as Mandasue Heller, Lynda la Plante, Mandasue Heller and Elizabeth Haynes. Since 2012, all eight of my crime novels have been bestsellers, each one climbing into the kindle UK top 20 and I’ve had several number ones.

I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter. You can find out more at my website http://www.melsherratt.co.uk or I’m on Twitter at @writermels

Happy Publication Day to T A Williams!

Publisher: Carina; 1 edition (21st March 2016)

A sparkling romantic comedy guaranteed to beat the winter blues, What Happens in the Alps… is one story you don’t want miss in 2016!

Up in the magical, snow-kissed mountains…

Two years ago, Annie Brewer’s life was turned upside down when her adrenaline-junkie husband died in a tragic climbing accident. So she’s hoping that moving to the beautiful village of Santorso in the Italian Alps will finally put her life back on track!

…anything can happen!

She might be going into business with her oldest friend – notorious lady-charmer Matt Brown – but men are definitely out of the question for Annie! That is, until she bumps into tall, dark and delicious Alessandro Lago on the ski slopes…and spontaneously says ‘Yes’ to a date!

It must be the crisp, mountain air but suddenly, anything seems possible. The only trouble is, chivalrous Matt is looking more gorgeous than ever…

You can purchase your copy HERE 

If you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review HERE

Praise for T. A. Williams

‘T. A. Williams has that gorgeous way of writing a feel good story and something which will easily make you smile…he’s absolutely backed up that men can write chick-lit.’ ─ Reviewed The Book (TOP 1000 Amazon Reviewer)

‘When Alice met Danny is maybe the first book in this genre I have read that is written by a man, and T. A. Williams has done a splendid job!’ ─ Rachale’s Reads

‘I have read others of the author’s books and have loved them equally. I wanted to jet off to join them and I bet you will too…Great characters, a fun and enjoyable read that will leave you with a big smile on your face.’ ─ Jilllovestoread

‘I had my doubts as to whether a ‘bloke’ would get it! To get beneath the skin of a woman and process how she’d feel in various scenario’s. Let’s just say I don’t have any longer – Trevor you nailed it.’ ─ Crooksonbooks

Biography

From Netgalley….

 Wicked Dix

I’ve always been a bad boy, with a very wicked reputation.

But then I met Madison – sweet, vulnerable, innocent Madison. She makes me feel as if there is hope for me. As if I could be a good man. I need her more than I need air to breathe.

There’s just one problem: Juliet. She’s a temptress who won’t take no for an answer. If I resist her, she’ll use our dirty secret to ruin everything with Madison. I don’t want to lose Madison, but can I really change?

This is my chance to prove that I can. But it’s going to be one hell of a ride. Are you ready?

Seriously sexy and totally addictive, Wicked Dix is the second in the Hard Love Romance series. Find out how it all began…Dirty Dix OUT NOW.

 The Second Chance Shoe Shop

‘The Second Chance Shoe Shop is that rarest of treats, a story filled with warm and wonderful characters who feel like your best friends from the first page.’ Tilly Tennant

All Riley Flynn wants is to meet someone who makes her happy. But attracting the right kind of man is not easy, and with her heart still hurting from her last break-up, Riley believes she’ll never find love again.

A year ago, Sadie Stewart’s whole world was shattered when her husband, Ross, died. She has struggled to keep herself together for the sake of their young daughter, but with the anniversary of his death approaching, Sadie finds herself overwhelmed by grief.

Sadie and Riley work at Chandlers shoe shop, in the charming town of Hedworth. But when Chandlers is threatened with closure, the friends are confronted with the loss of not only their jobs, but also their support network – the glue that holds them together when they are close to breaking.

As they put together a plan to save their beloved shop, Sadie realises that she might just be learning to live again. Could it be that new beginnings are just round the corner? The campaign also finds Riley unexpectedly crossing paths with charming photographer, Ethan. Maybe her second chance at love is right under her feet …

A delightfully romantic tale of love, friendship and putting your best foot forward, for fans of Carole Matthews and Amanda Prowse.

 Heat It Up (Apparently I requested this from Netgalley, but I must have done it in my sleep sometime as it’s not a book I’ve heard of before! Oh well, it’s on my shelf now so I’ll give it a go.)

Some games are hotter off the ice…

Sofia Phillips feels cursed. Her father cheated on her mother, her boyfriend cheated on her―she’s done with dating. A summer work-exchange program in Finland is the perfect escape. But instead of gaining experience as an athletic trainer, she’s cleaning toilets. Awesome. The trip is a disaster, and even better, she meets Kyle Bennett. In the sauna. Naked.

Sexy hockey player Kyle was the star right wing for an NHL team. But after an accident killed his wife and left him injured, Kyle has appreciated the “therapeutic” benefits of booze and puck bunnies. Now in Finland for the summer, he’s coaching in an elite hockey-training camp for teens. When Sofia’s grandmother decides to set her up with a nice Finnish man, Sofia recruits Kyle as her make-believe boyfriend. Neither expects their first kiss to sizzle. And neither expects, while stranded on an island during a storm, to have a scorching night of passion.

But as their charade, and then their attraction, develops into something deeper, the past comes back, threatening to destroy them. They must decide if their feelings for each other are strong enough to survive―or it will be game over.

Purchased/Downloaded….

 Nowhere to Run

A chilling and action-packed crime novel

Sarah Harmon’s life has been complicated. Very complicated, for a nineteen- year old just leaving high school. But as she steps out on a clear autumn day to run the nearby cliff trails, she’s ready to put the past behind her and move on.

She has a secret one-way plane ticket to a new life, and a plan, waiting.

But time for Sarah has run out. For she’s about to cross paths with someone more twisted than the path she’s running.

Inspector Susan Kovalsky, not long on the job and fleeing her own city demons, has her hands full.

The town of Lion’s Bay might appear picture post-card perfect, nestled on the stunning clear waters of Georgian Bay, but there’s a lot going on under its shiny surface. It seems the more stones she turns over, the more secrets she unearths, and the more ripples she creates.

Will she ever discover who wanted this beautiful young woman dead?

After all, the suspects are in no short supply. How about all the people who lost their savings trusting her father?

Could one of them have sought revenge? What about her fiancé, Tommy Logan, son of a prominent local family? Did he learn of her plans to flee?

And what about Tommy’s strange cousin Trudy? There’s something not right about her at all. And Tommy’s mother sees the way her husband looks at their future daughter-in-law.

But is it just a coincidence that Sarah’s future father-in-law’s first wife died on the very same cliffs?

With eerie similarities to the death of a local young girl years earlier, a murder that has gone unsolved, Inspector Kovalsky’s suspicions deepen.

Reports that the lovely Sarah had a bit of a wild side unnerve our detective as she begins to solve the crime.

With more turns than the roads that carve through the rocky cliffs of this northern town, Nowhere to Run will keep your heart racing until the very last page.

Added to my Wish List….

Published (Kindle edition) – 1st April 2016.

Publisher – Blackbird Digital Books

4/5

When the publisher contacted me via Twitter regarding an ARC of this novella, I was more than intrigued to give it a go. I don’t often read Novellas, but I certainly will in future.

Homecoming is a beautifully written love story with a difference. One I’m sure would have held my interest just as easily had it been written as full length novel.

Rosie loves Tom, she always has and always will. All she’s ever wanted is to know he loves her too. I can’t say too much without spoiling it for those who haven’t read it yet, but this is such a touching story which I’m sure will be enjoyed by all who read it. A story which will certainly stay with me.

I will be adding Tanya Bullock’s other books to my TBR list.

Many thanks to Blackbird Digital Books for my ARC.

You can pre-order the Kindle edition of Homecoming HERE

The paperback edition of Homecoming was released on 26th November 2015. You can purchase a paperback copy HERE

Book description:

All that mattered to Rosie, all that had ever really mattered, was that she loved Tom and he loved her

Rosie and Tom belong together.
For too long, war and its devastating aftermath have kept them apart.
Now that Tom has finally returned home, Rosie hopes that they will be able to put the past behind them.
But when a mysterious sequence of events unfolds, their love is put to the test once more.
With a shocking secret hanging heavily over their relationship…
With circumstances conspiring against them at every turn…
Rosie and Tom find themselves caught up in the biggest battle of their lives.
Will their demons ultimately consume them?
Or will love conquer all in the end?

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT HOMECOMING

‘One of the most touching romantic tales I’ve read in a long time … a wonderful surprise; a twist on a well-loved genre that will delight and tug at the heart strings.’ — Shelley Wilson, Author

‘Homecoming…is unique which is truly difficult to find in modern fiction … For originality and excellent character development and for living up to the hype, I rate this novella as 5 out of 5 stars.’ — Amie Gaudet, Amie’s Book Reviews

‘Love weaves through it in colourful strands, radiating out from the funny, plucky heroine to those around her … A beautiful and satisfying read.’ — Sandra Peachey, Author

‘This author has a real gift for word craft. Homecoming is a uniquely told love story … a lovely, lovely read.’ — T.S Harvey, Author

‘A novella that falls far from the mainstream love stories we find ourselves consuming these days. Being someone who truly appreciates beautiful writing, it wasn’t hard for me to complete this book in one sitting.’ — Nihaad Gamieldien, Read and Seek

‘Just read the book until it reaches your heart … every page you turn, there is something new but very unusual.’ — Laura Prime

‘This is the type of story that makes you feel a certain way after you read it. For me, it was a bittersweet longing … a lovely story told in an interesting way.’ — Kerrie Irish

About the Author

Today I am thrilled to share this gorgeous cover!

How could you not want to read this book!?

The Second Chance Shoe Shop will be published on 8th April 2016 by Bookouture .

You can pre-order your copy HERE

‘The Second Chance Shoe Shop is that rarest of treats, a story filled with warm and wonderful characters who feel like your best friends from the first page.’ Tilly Tennant

All Riley Flynn wants is to meet someone who makes her happy. But attracting the right kind of man is not easy, and with her heart still hurting from her last break-up, Riley believes she’ll never find love again.

A year ago, Sadie Stewart’s whole world was shattered when her husband, Ross, died. She has struggled to keep herself together for the sake of their young daughter, but with the anniversary of his death approaching, Sadie finds herself overwhelmed by grief.

Sadie and Riley work at Chandlers shoe shop, in the charming town of Hedworth. But when Chandlers is threatened with closure, the friends are confronted with the loss of not only their jobs, but also their support network – the glue that holds them together when they are close to breaking.

As they put together a plan to save their beloved shop, Sadie realises that she might just be learning to live again. Could it be that new beginnings are just round the corner? The campaign also finds Riley unexpectedly crossing paths with charming photographer, Ethan. Maybe her second chance at love is right under her feet …

A delightfully romantic tale of love, friendship and putting your best foot forward, for fans of Carole Matthews and Amanda Prowse.

Praise for Marcie Steele:

‘Wonderfully warm, with characters every woman can relate to, reading Marcie Steele’s Stirred With Love will remind you of chatting over coffee with three of your closest girlfriends. A fantastic read about overcoming life’s obstacles with friendship and love.’ Talli Roland

‘A squidgy cinnamon bun of a book – not too sweet but a perfect pick me up. ’ Reading Room with a View

‘Hooks you immediately, and you feel as if you’re reading about your friends … well written, character rich, heartwarming. An easy 5 stars.’ Bibliophile Book Club

‘I simply adored this book! What an absolutely delightful novel that exceeded all my expectations and left me wanting more … This is chick-lit at it’s best.’ Booklover Catlady Reviews

About the author….

I’m Mel Sherratt but I also write under the name of Marcie Steele. I’m a romantic at heart and have always wanted to write about characters who were not necessarily involved in the darker side of life. Coffee, cakes and friends are three of my favourite things, hence Stirred with Love for my first book writing as Marcie Steele. My second, That’s What Friends are For, will be published in December 2015.

As Mel, I write crime thrillers, psychological suspense and fiction with a punch – or grit-lit, as I call it. Shortlisted for the prestigious CWA (Crime Writer’s Association) Dagger in Library Award 2014, my inspiration comes from authors such as Mandasue Heller, Lynda la Plante, Mandasue Heller and Elizabeth Haynes. Since 2012, all seven of my crime novels have been bestsellers, each one climbing into the kindle UK top 20 and I’ve had several number ones.

I live in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, with my husband and terrier, Dexter. You can find out more at my website http://www.melsherratt.co.uk or I’m on Twitter at @writermels

If you haven’t already, you really should check out the other titles by Marcie Steele. You can see her author page on Amazon HERE . I highly recommend them both!

I also highly recommend Mel’s other books. You can view them all HERE . Treat yourself, you won’t regret it!

Proud to be part of Team Sherratt 🙂

Publisher: Bookouture (8th October 2015)

5/5*

First of all, thanks to Bookouture for approving my request via Netgalley and for awarding me auto-approval for their titles. I am over the moon!

This is not the sort of book I would generally read, but I thought I’d give it a go as it has so many great reviews and with Bookouture as the publisher I knew it would have to be good. They have such fabulous authors on their books.

Dirty Dix had me totally hooked from the beginning.

Dr. Dixon Mathews (Psychiatrist) is a very charismatic character. A bad boy, obviously, but there’s more to him than that. He’s hurt. He was engaged, but was betrayed in the worst way possible, so he’s gone a bit wild. I’m sure many men (and women) have sought comfort and escapism in the arms of a stranger (or many in this case!) when dumped by the person they thought was the love of their life. He also has family issues which some will relate to.

This book is very raunchy so it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but it does have a good story to it. I was immediately drawn to Dixon. He’s a very likeable character, despite his antics. He has a vulnerable and sensitive side which is highlighted when he meets Madison. I liked how their relationship progressed although I did want to bang their heads together on numerous occasions! Madison’s back story is heart-breaking and I was really hoping things would work out for them both. Of course, nothing was ever going to be straight forward with Juliet on the scene. She is not a likeable character at all.

I also loved the banter between Dixon and his two best friends, Hunter and Finch. There are laugh out loud moments when they are together. Brilliant!

Overall, I’m glad I went out of my comfort zone and read something I wouldn’t normally choose. I read it within two days, so I think that says it all really!

This is the first book I’ve read by Monica James, but it won’t be the last. Book 2 has been downloaded!

Many thanks again to Bookouture, the author and Netgalley for my kindle copy.

You can purchase your copy HERE

Description –

I knew she was bad news when she walked into my office, but I just couldn’t help myself…

Filthy, sexy and full of surprises, Juliet is so hot she has me on fire. I’ve met my match and I can’t help going back for more.

Then there’s Madison… she’s sweet, funny and awakens in me a fierce need to protect her.

But I don’t do relationships. I don’t usually do the same woman twice.

Juliet and Madison: Two very different women have got me completely hooked.

Who will I choose?

I know who I should choose, but I never said I was the hero of this story, or even the good guy. And besides, who wants to be good, when it feels so good being bad?

My tale isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re game, strap yourself in and expect the unexpected. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…

What reviewers are saying….

Achingly sexy and highly addictive, Dirty Dix, the first in the Hard Love Romance series, will have you hooked. Wicked Dix coming soon…

Note: Previously published as ‘Addicted to Sin’.

‘Wickedly sexy, provocative and daring with the right dose of the quintessential bad boy…’ Heidi McLaughlin

‘Monica James is a master of story telling that holds you captive with memorable story lines, intriguing characters, steamy scenes and unexpected twists and turns. You will devour every word she offers. I am officially addicted to Dixon Mathews.‘ Rachel Brookes

‘A captivating, witty, and sexy read. Monica James has written an intoxicating novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat and thirsting for more when it’s all over.‘ Justine Elvira

‘Monica James has created another character that I couldn’t get enough of. Dr Dixon Mathews’ kept me addicted until the very last page.’ Lisa Edward

‘I am addicted to three things: carbs, books, and Monica James. I devoured this!‘ CJ Roberts

Read what everyone is saying about Monica James:

‘WOW!! I am completely speechless. EMOTIONAL. SUPERB. BRILLIANT. Yes one of the best books I have ever read. I do not give many 5+ stars, but this is on that list.’ Just Booked

‘OH MY EFFING GOSH… I. Cant. Even. Describe. What… No Way… Mind-Blown… That was me sitting on my couch in shock after reading this book. Monica James is literally going to give me a heart attack and I FREAKIN LOVE HER for it HAHA!!’ All is Read

‘Monica James is just straight brilliant.’ A Diary of a Book Addict

‘Monica James will steal your heart.’ The Reading Vixens

‘I was a mess of emotions reading this. I laughed and cried. It was an amazing read. I can’t wait to read more stories by Monica. If they are anything like this one I know I will love them.’ Summer’s Book Blog

‘Monica, Monica, Monica, if you didn’t live an ocean away, I would come to your house and demand you tell me the rest of this story…cause I don’t want to wait to see what happens.’ Ilsa Madden-Mills

‘I am left mouth hanging open, heart beating so fast…’ Addicted Souls Book Blog

‘I am convinced Ms. James has a little piece of the devil in her.’ Mommy’s Late Night Book-Up

‘James gave the right amount of angst to leave a girl like me just a bit thirsty for more.’ Reality Bites

From Netgalley:

Publication date – 21st March 2016 (Carina)

Description:

A sparkling romantic comedy guaranteed to beat the winter blues, What Happens in the Alps… is one story you don’t want miss in 2016!

UP IN THE MAGICAL, SNOW-KISSED MOUNTAINS…

Two years ago, Annie Brewer’s life was turned upside down when her adrenaline-junkie husband died in a tragic climbing accident. So she’s hoping that moving to the beautiful village of Santorso in the Italian Alps will finally put her life back on track!

…ANYTHING CAN HAPPEN!

She might be going into business with her oldest friend – notorious lady-charmer Matt Brown – but men are definitely out of the question for Annie! That is, until she bumps into tall, dark and delicious Alessandro Lago on the ski slopes…and spontaneously says ‘Yes’ to a date!

It must be the crisp, mountain air but suddenly, anything seems possible. The only trouble is, chivalrous Matt is looking more gorgeous than ever…

I have since finished this. If you haven’t already and would like to, you can read my review HERE

Publication date – 5th May 2016 (Penguin)

Description:

She can forgive. They can’t forget.

After ten years in the Huntsville State Penitentiary, Jasper Curtis returns home to live with his sister and her two daughters. Lizzie does not know who she’s letting into her home: the brother she grew up loving or the monster he became.

Teenage Katie distrusts this strange man in their home but eleven-year-old Joanne is just intrigued by her new uncle.

Jasper says he’s all done with trouble, but in a forgotten prairie town that knows no forgiveness, it does not take long for trouble to arrive at their door …

Publication date – 8th October 2015 (Bookouture)

Description:

I knew she was bad news when she walked into my office, but I just couldn’t help myself…

Filthy, sexy and full of surprises, Juliet is so hot she has me on fire. I’ve met my match and I can’t help going back for more.

Then there’s Madison… she’s sweet, funny and awakens in me a fierce need to protect her.

But I don’t do relationships. I don’t usually do the same woman twice.

Juliet and Madison: Two very different women have got me completely hooked.

Who will I choose?

I know who I should choose, but I never said I was the hero of this story, or even the good guy. And besides, who wants to be good, when it feels so good being bad?

My tale isn’t for the faint-hearted. If you’re game, strap yourself in and expect the unexpected. But don’t say I didn’t warn you…

Publication date: 21st April 2016 (The Borough Press)

Description –

The island is quiet now.

On a remote Scottish island, five children are the only ones left. Since the Last Adult died, sensible Elizabeth has been the group leader, testing for a radio signal, playing teacher and keeping an eye on Alex, the littlest, whose insulin can only last so long.

There is ‘shopping’ to do in the houses they haven’t yet searched and wrong smells to avoid. For eight-year-old Rona each day brings fresh hope that someone will come back for them, tempered by the reality of their dwindling supplies.

With no adults to rebel against, squabbles threaten the fragile family they have formed. And when brothers Calum Ian and Duncan attempt to thwart Elizabeth’s leadership, it prompts a chain of events that will endanger Alex’s life and test them all in unimaginable ways.

Reminiscent of The Lord of the Flies and The Cement Garden, The Last of Us is a powerful and heartbreaking novel of aftershock, courage and survival.

Publication date: 2nd June 2016 (Penguin)

Description –

A brother chosen. A brother left behind. And a family where you’d least expect to find one.

Leon is nine, and has a perfect baby brother called Jake. They have gone to live with Maureen, who has fuzzy red hair like a halo, and a belly like Father Christmas. But the adults are speaking in low voices, and wearing Pretend faces. They are threatening to give Jake to strangers. Since Jake is white and Leon is not.

As Leon struggles to cope with his anger, certain things can still make him smile – like Curly Wurlys, riding his bike fast downhill, burying his hands deep in the soil, hanging out with Tufty (who reminds him of his dad), and stealing enough coins so that one day he can rescue Jake and his mum.

Evoking a Britain of the early eighties, My Name is Leon is a heart-breaking story of love, identity and learning to overcome unbearable loss. Of the fierce bond between siblings. And how – just when we least expect it – we manage to find our way home.

From the author:

Publication date – 1st September 2014 (Wings ePress)

Description:

DCI Peter Hatherall is called in to investigate a shooting on the Earl of Ditchburn’s country estate. The Earl’s activities have angered animal rights and environmental groups but subsequent deaths suggest Elmsgrove Racehorse Yard is the target. There is more at stake than a horse race and time is running out for Hatherall to solve the case before the culprit kills again.

Ordered/downloaded:

Added to my Wish List (mainly based on recommendations from fellow bloggers):