The Marshall Area Fine Arts Council (MAFAC) recently opened/rebranded Books on Third, a gift shop that sells awesome artwork, jewelry, and BOOKS by local and regional authors. I was honored to be one of the authors invited to attend the grand opening. I went through the store’s stock of my book, Rumpled, at the event and got to leave a new stack for the store’s inventory. As a stay-at-home mom who fits all my writing into nooks and crannies (mostly journaling and book reviews since those forms cope most easily with the interruptions of a toddler waking from his nap), it’s always so reaffirming to spend some time immersed in my “writing self.” Thank you, MAFAC, for granting me the opportunity to be seen as a writer first for a couple hours last week!

 

Photos below.

 

 

This was my treat for being the end of this school term. And what a treat it was!

I recommend these fantastic books - to see my reviews for them, look below on the blog or use the search dialog box.

After wasting 10 years in a one-sided marriage to which she sacrificed her education and youth, Rachel finally has the opportunity to make a career for herself, to stand on her own two feet and make her own life. But with 3 boys under the age of 8, she needs someone to help take care of them for the summer. With the help of some innocent meddling on the part of her friend Carol, who enlists her son John to watch her boys, Rachel has the ideal opportunity to fulfill her dreams. But the history between her and John, and her own insecurities get in the way. Because she was the who pushed him to leave all those years ago.

John was forced to leave his hometown by his father, to pursue a career in football, dashing the hopes of the townsfolk of a star athlete belonging to Lake Bliss. But the dream was never his own and when it didn't become a reality, he finally followed his own path, moving from town to town, living his own adventures and creating recreational centers for the children of those towns.

Now back in Lake Bliss after all these years has awoken memories and feelings he had for Rachel. She needs his help with her kids and he needs her help to restore the faith and trust of the townspeople in him as he sets up his recreational centre. Can they mutually benefit from this and come out of this deal hurt-free or will their feelings complicate their already complicated lives. Get yourself a copy of this book and find out because I'm not telling. ;-D

Free copy provided in exchange for an honest review

John and Rachel's story starts back in high school.  They were certain it was love even then.  They were destined for greater things.  At least, he was.  His father talked her into breaking up with him and sending off to football greatness.

 

Now, both divorced and back in Lake Bliss, they find the attraction is still alive.  Sparks literally fly around them when they are in the same room.  He asks her to let him be her nanny.  Her three sons love this idea too.  Can she keep her hands off him if she is his employer?

 

His mom is one of her dearest friends and thinks this is the best solution for both of them.  John has never stopped loving her.  He has no clue even today, why she sent him away.  She wants to tell him but it has been so long. Would it even matter?

 

When her ex returns and wants her back - can she choose the right man for her future and her kids?  Such an engaging story that keeps you interested.  My only complaint was the abrupt sort of ending.  Full of surprises though!  This is the 2nd book in the Lake Bliss series. I give it a 4/5 Kitty's Paws UP!

 

 

***This ARC copy was given Free from Netgalley.com and the publisher for review purposes.  My honest opinion does not reflect Netgalley, nor its affiliates.