Blog Tour: Rumor Has It by Jill Shalvis + GIVEAWAY!

Rumor Has It (Animal Magnetism, #4) by Jill Shalvis
Published: November 5, 2013 by Berkley
Source: From the publisher - thank you!

He’ll help unleash the new woman in her…

Special Ops soldier Griffin Reid doesn’t exactly have happy memories of growing up in Sunshine, Idaho. He’s only come back to recover from a war injury, and while he refuses to admit he’s in a weakened state, he finds comfort in the last person he’d expect.

Kate Evans teaches fourth grade science in Sunshine, the place she’s always called home. Dreaming of graduate school and a happily-ever-after, she’s desperate to break out of the monotony of Sunshine. Luckily, a certain sexy man has just come back into her life.

To Griffin, Kate as always been his little sister’s friend, but now he’s finding her to be so much more. As both attempt to forge their paths, they must decide if their passionate connection can turn into something lasting… [goodreads]

Kate has always been the caretaker in her family, looking after her dad while making sure her teenage sister is on the right track and little brother Tommy has taken a bath and eaten a proper breakfast.  She's put everyone else in her life before her own, and in return Kate's happiness has taken back seat.  But when her best friend Holly's wedding brings sexy Griffin back to town, happiness has its way of creeping up on her.

Kate and Griffin share a past of childhood memories.  As the sister's best friend, Kate has always been in the shadows when it comes to Griffin.  But now that Griffin is home from the military, due to an accident that has left him with a head injury, Kate decides its time to step out from beneath the shadows.  Griffin is home for his sister's wedding and has no plans of staying longer than two weeks, especially since he was hell bent on leaving Sunshine, Idaho and getting as far away from his critical father and their family ranch.  But one look at the all grown up Kate and his plans are wiped clean.

There is an instant attraction between Kate and Griffin.  They both know its impossible to deny the chemistry between them, and only natural to act on it instead.  What occurs as just a one night of fun quickly becomes more than just fun and causes both Kate and Griffin to reevaluate their future plans.  As two people who always put others before themselves, they learn to let go and allow someone else to take care of them.

As a devoted fan to Shalvis's Lucky Harbor series, it was interesting to venture into another fictional town by the same author.  There's a familiarity in this author's craft that's just deep enough to satisfy any reader.  The romance is always the focus of Shalvis's stories, but she never lets it take center stage without a supporting plot and definite characters to back it up.

As part of the official blog tour for RUMOR HAS IT, author Jill Shalvis has stopped by the blog today for a little Q&A.  Get to know more about this favorite author of mine & don't forget to enter the giveaway below!

Jill Shalvis is the bestselling author of over four dozen romance novels, including her upcoming sexy contemporary romance RUMOR HAS IT, book four in the Animal Magnetism series set in the small town of Sunshine, Idaho. Jill is known for stories that are sexy, fun and full of heart. The 4-time Rita nominee and 3-time National Readers Choice winner makes her home near Lake Tahoe. Visit her website at www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and daily blog.

Q: Can you tell our readers a little bit about the Animal Magnetism (Sunshine, Idaho) series, and where your inspiration came from?

A: I’ve always wanted to write a series where I could incorporate cute animals. Cute animals and sexy heroes together, who can resist that. So I came up with a series about a set of wildly alpha brothers running an animal center in Sunshine, Idaho at the base of the Bitteroot Mountains.


Q: What is your favorite thing about writing this series? The sexy men, the heroines, or the animals?

A: All of the above, but okay, let me admit the truth – the combination of hot guys and adorable animals is pretty much irresistible for me.


Q: What do you think makes romance readers and the romance community so strong?

A: I think what makes the romance community so strong is that romance readers are awesome. They’re loyal and dedicated and always so willing to help support our community by talking about the books and making it okay to read whatever you want, may that be straight contemporary, romantic suspense, erotica, whatever. I love that. As far as having a strong presence, that is an accidental cause of working alone most of the days out of the year. Reaching out to romance readers and writers via social media is just a really great way to not always be alone.


Q: Are contemporaries your favorite genre to read as well as to write? If so, can you give our readers some of your favorite recommendations?

A: Yes, though I love to read everything, across all genres. Heck, I’m happy reading the back of a cereal box. But as for my recommendations in the contemporary genre, you can’t go wrong with Robyn Carr, Kristan Higgins, Carly Phillips, Susan Mallery, Lori Foster, Rachel Gibson…


Q: Do you think reading romance makes us expect more from our own romantic partners? What effect do you think romance has on those that read it?

A: We’re writing fiction. Not nonfiction. But made up stories, fantasies really. I’m not writing “How To Have A Hot Romance.” Or “How To Train Your Significant Other Into Being A Perfect Mate.” I’m writing a fictional tale. I think our readers are sharp, and are well aware and capable of knowing the difference between a pat Happily Ever After and real life. If I can provide someone with a fantasy, a little escape from her reality, then I am considering it a job well done.


Q: You write so many wonderful contemporaries, how do you keep each novel fresh and exciting?

A: Keeping it fresh is a constant battle, and I struggle with that daily. I just love writing, and this genre, and work hard to do the job so I can keep doing it and pleasing readers. Also, I find that stalking neighbors and friends, and being extremely nosy about their personal lives and conflicts is very helpful.


Q: What’s your advice for a first-time pet owner?

1. Read up on your pet, on the specific breed.
2. Be patient.
3. Be patient.
4. Be patient.
5. Oh, and if there’s training issues? Chances are it’s you, so revisit #1.


Q: The interactions shared between you and Alpha Man always entertain; what is a recent “He Said, She Said” between you and Alpha Man that we may not have heard yet?
Me:
What are you eating?
Him (mouth full):
Nothing
Me:
It smells like Oreos.
Him:
…
Me:
Are you … eating Oreos? I thought we were out of cookies!!
Him:
There’s only four left.
Me:
I need two.
Him:
I’ll give you one.
Me:
No! You can’t eat just one cookie!!! There’s a rule!!!
Him:
Show me the book where this rule lives.
Me:
I’LL WRITE YOU THE $%#!#$!@ book, give me a second cookie and no one gets hurt!
Him:
Is it possible that you need something to go with that cookie?
Me:
Milk?
Him:
I was thinking Midol…

Q: Your friendship with Kristan Higgins and your friendly battle for “Man Wars” has become infamous. Why do you two connect so well?

A: I think our chemistry translates well because it’s genuine. You can’t fake a real friendship. We connect on lots of levels, such as competing for readers (kiddin!), and because we’re both raising aliens—er, teenagers.


Q: What’s next for Jill Shalvis?

A: If you read RUMOR HAS IT, you may notice a new vet is working at Belle Haven. Dr. Wyatt Stone. He and his two sisters, Darcy and Zoe, are each going to get their own story next year.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

OPEN TO US RESIDENTS ONLY!

MUST BE 18 YEARS OLD TO ENTER!

GIVEAWAY ENDS ON 11/15/13 @ 12AM EST

GOOD LUCK!

Forever and a Day (Lucky Harbor, #6) by Jill Shalvis

Forever and a Day (Lucky Harbor, #6) by Jill Shalvis
Published: July 31, 2012 by Grand Central
Source: Purchased ebook from B&N

LOVE CAN HAPPEN IN A HEARTBEAT.

Grace never thought she’d be starting her life over from scratch. Losing everything has landed her in Lucky Harbor, working as a dog walker for overwhelmed ER doctor Josh Scott. But the day his nanny fails to show up, Grace goes from caring for Josh’s loveable mutt to caring for his rambunctious kids. Soon Grace is playing house with the sexy single dad…

With so many people depending on him, Josh has no time for anything outside of his clinic and family–until Grace arrives in town. Now this brainy blonde is turning his life inside out and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “good bedside manner.” Josh and Grace don’t know if what they have can last. But in a town like Lucky Harbor, a lifetime of love starts with just one day… [goodreads]

WELCOME BACK TO LUCKY HARBOR! This is what I kept telling myself over and over again as I dove into this sixth installment of Jill Shalvis' Lucky Harbor series.  I discovered these amazing adult contemporary novels last year and went on a book binge, reading one through five back to back.  Then something happened (life maybe? other books?) and I set this book, number six, aside.  It felt like the PERFECT time to revisit Lucky Harbor and fall in love with this town all over again.

This story is my new favorite in the series, for multiple reasons -- but at the top of that list? The romance between Grace and Josh.  It felt so REAL.  I identified with their struggles; Grace not finding her own "path" in life until much further down the road, and Josh having to grow up and take on responsibilities much too soon.  What appears to be two people at polar opposites, being forced together by something out of their control, results in some HOT steamy tension that definitely delivers in the end.

Grace is in Lucky Harbor temporarily, while she finds a job -- the job she was suppose to be doing according to her parents -- but in the meantime helps around town, doing anything to pay the bills.  Josh is a single dad, working the double shift in the ER and at his father's local practice.  These two meet and realize they both have something they can offer the other.  What begins as just a business arrangement, quickly turns into some hot, heavy, steamy FUN!  But how long can the fun last? Feelings begin to grow, and that's when things can get messy.

What should have just been a temporary employment turns into a home for Grace, and a family for Josh.  I loved witnessing as their relationship made that shift.  One minute they're attempting to keep it purely physical, and then these softer, more emotional moments, move in that really tug at your heart.  Jill Shalvis is a master at crafting this even balance between the two and it's why I keep coming back to Lucky Harbor time and time again.

If I haven't convinced you in the past to pick up this series, I hope my review for FOREVER AND A DAY will make that happen!  If you're a new-comer to the series and don't have the time to invest in her previous five novels, but want to read this one -- that's OK! You totally can. It won't spoil anything. Each story is their own; however, there are reoccurring characters who make appearances, so it's fun to see what they've been up to.  Oh Lucky Harbor, how I wish you were a town I could visit... for FOREVER AND A DAY.

Waiting On: It Had to Be You by Jill Shalvis

It Had to Be You (Lucky Harbor, #7) by Jill Shalvis
To be published: May 28, 2013 by Grand Central Publishing

Ali Winters is not having a good day. Her boyfriend left her, everyone in town thinks she's a thief, and now she's about to be kicked out of her home. Her only shot at keeping a roof over her head and clearing her name is to beg for help from a police detective who's as sexy as he is stern....

After a high-profile case goes wrong, Luke Hanover returns to his hometown for some peace and quiet. Instead he finds a bombshell brunette in a heap of trouble. As he helps Ali put her world back together, the pieces of Luke's own life finally seem to fall into place. Is this the start of a sizzling fling? Or are Luke and Ali on the brink of something big in a little town called Lucky Harbor? [goodreads]

A new story set in Lucky Harbor?! YES PLEASE! If you know me and this blog, then you know I am so excited to read a continuation in this series.  Love these books & LOVE Jill Shalvis!


"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Small Town Christmas by Jill Shalvis, Hope Ramsay & Katie Lane

Small Town Christmas by Jill Shalvis, Hope Ramsay & Katie Lane
(part of the series: Lucky Harbor #2.5, Last Chance #3.5, Deep in the Heart of Texas #2.5)
Published: November 1, 2011 by Forever
Received: Purchased e-book from B&N

Three heartwarming holiday stories
to prove that love is the greatest gift of all

Kissing Santa Claus
NASCAR driver Logan Perrish returns to Lucky Harbor, Washington, with love in his heart and a ring in his pocket. But can Sandy Jansen forget the past and give him a second chance? Or will Logan be spending another Christmas alone?

I'll Be Home for Christmas
After ignoring the advice of Miz Miriam Randall, local matchmaker, Annie Roberts expects another hum drum holiday in Last Chance, South Carolina. But when a stray cat arrives in the arms of Army sergeant Matt Jasper, a calico named Holly just may be the best matchmaker of all.

O Little Town of Bramble
All Ethan Miller wants for Christmas is to celebrate in Bramble, Texas, with family and friends. But when his childhood neighbor, Samantha Henderson, comes home for the holiday, Ethan realizes that the girl-next-door could be the girl of his dreams. [goodreads]

To continue with my Christmastime reading, I recently picked up this three short stories in one titled Small Town Christmas. Since I'm a fan of Jill Shalvis, of course I had to read another story by her, and with it I got a bonus of two other stories from authors I had not read before. If you're looking for quick, easy-going adult contemporary story set around Christmastime then I highly recommend picking up this e-book!

The first story is titled, Kissing Santa Claus. Jill Shalvis brought back a familiar character who had a secondary role in one of her previous stories told in the Lucky Harbor series. I was thrilled to be back in this lovely town, discovering two characters who's flames had not quite burned out. Logan and Sandy were hot! hot! hot! Though the time frame is definitely a quick one, you don't feel rushed at all. Shalvis gives us enough back story to understand the tension and appreciate the smoldering outcome. I was definitely pleased with this story and adore anything set in Lucky Harbor!

The second story, I'll Be Home for Christmas was a nice balance of what it means to find a home for the holidays and the importance of sharing it with the ones you love. Of course this story came with an unforgettable small town, filled with a cast of colorful characters. It definitely left me wanting to know more about this series, Last Chance, and the stories that have come from within. The sincerity in this Christmas story warmed my heart and reminded me how important love can be during the holidays.

The final story in this Christmas e-book is O Little Town of Bramble, set in west Texas. This story is about two characters who shared a past growing up, and are now reunited in the town of Bramble for the holidays.  Sam is the small-town girl next door who wanted to get out of Bramble and make something of herself.  After obtaining her degree in veterinarian science, she's come home to mend old wounds, but finds surprises she wasn't expecting.  Ethan grew up as a farm boy, looking after animals has always been his passion, but when Sam resurfaces in town his passion ignites elsewhere.  I enjoyed this small town setting of west Texas and joyful characters who inhabited it.  It was definitely a nice addition to this collection of Christmas short stories.

Hopefully readers will find something in each of these holiday stories.  Whether you're in need of a feel-good holiday tale, or something with a bit more romance, I definitely recommend adding this e-book to your holiday reading time.

Under the Mistletoe (Lucky Harbor #6.5) by Jill Shalvis

Under the Mistletoe (Lucky Harbor #6.5) by Jill Shalvis
Published: December 4, 2012 by Grand Central Publishing
Received: Purchased e-book from B&N

JUST ONE MORE KISS

There's no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts-and asking for forgiveness.

Nick grew up without a family of his own so he's overwhelmed by the love that Mia receives from all her relatives, gathered together to celebrate the season. Under their watchful eyes, Nick finds earning back her trust the hardest thing he's ever had to do. If he succeeds, he will receive the greatest gift of all, Mia's love for a lifetime. [goodreads]

A Christmas story set in my favorite town of Lucky Harbor?! What a sweet early Christmas present to myself this was! As someone who has just recently discovered this series, I was very pleased to find out that Jill Shalvis had written a short story set in Lucky Harbor to be released just before the holidays. I am starting to discover that I love to read contemporary novels during this time of year that are focused around Christmas. I just wish I had picked them up sooner!

The lovely thing about this series is you don't necessarily have to read them in order. Yes, there are reoccurring characters, but each book focuses on a new story. This one just so happens to be about Mia, a key character we met in book two during Tara and Ford's story. Picking up this novel was like coming home to a family I hadn't seen in awhile, but missed oh so much. I loved having a glimpse into the lives of so many characters, seeing how their relationships evolved and what each one was up to.

The town of Lucky Harbor always captured my interest, but in this particular story the setting truly emerged from the pages. I adore Christmas decorations and the festivities that surround them. Lucky Harbor did not miss out on the beauty of decorating for the holidays. After meeting Mia in a previous story, this one focuses on her life 5 years down the road. She's matured a bit, and with that maturity comes heart ache unfortunately. She's ventured back home to Lucky Harbor for the holidays, bringing with her a broken heart.

The source of her broken heart stems from Nick; the guy who was too scared to commit into accompanying Mia home for the holidays. It may have taken him a few minutes too long to figure out what a mistake he's made, but eventually he finds himself in Lucky Harbor, attempting to win back the girl who captured his heart.

Jill Shalvis has given us another dose of unforgettable moments, set in the lovely seaside town of Lucky Harbor. If you're looking for a quick, light romance to tide you over this Christmas, I definitely recommend grabbing this short story e-book.

At Last (Lucky Harbor, #5) by Jill Shalvis

At Last (Lucky Harbor, #5) by Jill Shalvis
Published: June 26, 2012 by Forever
Received: Purchased e-book via B&N

HER LOVE HAS COME ALONG . . .
Amy Michaels loves her new life in Lucky Harbor. A waitress in the local diner, she's looking forward to her first weekend hike through the mountains. But when a wrong turn takes her off the trail, she finds herself up close and personal with forest ranger Matt Bowers. And even though she's tempted to kiss that sexy smile right off his face, she won't make the mistake of getting involved with the town heartthrob.

A former cop whose life went south, Matt doesn't let anyone get too close. But something about the feisty beauty caught his eye the moment he first saw her in the diner. After a hot night under a starry sky, Matt can't deny their attraction-or the fact that for the first time in a long time, he feels the stirrings of something more. Now it's up to Matt to help Amy see that, no matter what is in their past, together they can build a future in Lucky Harbor. [goodreads]

I'm on a roll here, people.  My addiction to the Lucky Harbor series continues with Amy and Matt's story in At Last.  I feel like Jill Shalvis has given us a formula of what to expect in her novels, and even though some parts may be easy to figure out, there are still moments that take me by surprise.  The steaminess does not let up in this one.  If anything, her novels just keep getting hotter and hotter as they progress.  She is able to write with such passion, yet giving it a nice balance of realism too.  And let's not forget that extra dash of cute and quirky that she throws in each story, too.  Put all of that together and you have yourself a perfect Contemporary Romance.

Amy is somewhat new to Lucky Harbor.  Not many people know her past; just that she's now the waitress at the local diner.  Her strong personality may put some people off, but underneath that is someone you can rely on.  Amy has found friendship with Mallory and Grace, and the three of them have formed an alliance.  Together they're on a mission to make each others lives be the best they can be.  What Mallory and Grace see in Amy's future is a man to sweep her off her feet, settle that strong personality of hers, and show her how to be vulnerable.  Their solution?  Matt Bowers, the town's forest ranger.

Matt has his own hang-ups, though.  He wants Amy. It's obvious, but he isn't quite sure if he's ready to do the love thing.  What he doesn't realize is that even though Amy says it's just physical what they have, somewhere deep inside her heart is saying something else.  What would a delicious romance be without that irresistible tension?  Oh these two were steamy!  I kept waiting for that moment when their physical connection wouldn't be enough.  Eventually their pasts would catch up to them, forcing them to deal with their emotions.

As I've said with the last four novels, Jill Shalvis has done it again.  She's created a story which made it so difficult to put down.  I feel so comfortable with her writing now, it's as though I'm visiting an old friend each time I start a new book of her's.  I just can't get enough! 

Lucky in Love (Lucky Harbor, #4) by Jill Shalvis

Lucky in Love (Lucky Harbor, #4) by Jill Shalvis
Published: May 22, 2012 by Forever
Received: Purchased ebook via B&N

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she's expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she'd like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison?

The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he's only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he's gone . . .

For the first time in his life, Ty can't bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn't, including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all . . . anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor. [goodreads]

In the fourth installment of Lucky Harbor, we're introduced to a new batch of characters.  They aren't completely new, though.  Jill Shalvis has a way of sprinkling them in the background of previous books, so that our minds have seen glimpses of them, but their stories have yet to be told.  The previous three books were centered around the sisters that run the B&B.  The fourth book introduces us to Mallory, the town's nurse; along with Amy, the waitress at the diner and Grace, the new girl who hasn't quite found her footing in Lucky Harbor yet.  These three women set up the foundation for some steamy, yet addicting story lines to be told.  Just like the rest, I found it hard to walk away from this novel until I finished.

Mallory is the "good girl".  She's always done everything right by following the rules.  It's what this town has expected of her.  But enough is enough and she wants a chance at something that may be wrong for her.  This chance comes in a tall, sexy package by the name of Ty.  He's in town temporarily, recuperating after his intense job turned his life upside down.  These two characters collide one night (literally) and from there sparks are flying.  What begins as a one time thing slowly evolves into something much deeper.  Mallory is soon caught between wanting to keep up her new-found bad side, and the good girl she knows deep down still exists.

I don't know how Jill Shalvis does it, but she's won me over with a new set of characters.  I fell in love with the town of Lucky Harbor and each new book introduces a new plot to get tangled up in.  The passion just keeps getting more intense in each new book as well.  I am curious to find out what's in store for Amy and Grace's stories that I have yet to read.  I have a feeling they'll win me over just as Lucky in Love has done, for the fourth time.

Head Over Heels (Lucky Harbor, #3) by Jill Shalvis

Head Over Heels (Lucky Harbor, #3) by Jill Shalvis
Published: December 1, 2011 by Forever
Received: Purchased ebook via B&N

Breaking rules and breaking hearts

Free-spirited Chloe lives life on the edge. Unlike her soon-to-be married sisters, she isn't ready to settle into a quiet life running their family's newly renovated inn. But soon her love of trouble--and trouble with love-draws the attention of the very stern, very sexy sheriff who'd like nothing better than to tame her wild ways.

Suddenly Chloe can't take a misstep without the sheriff hot on her heels. His rugged swagger and his enigmatic smile are enough to make a girl beg to be handcuffed. For the first time, instead of avoiding the law, Chloe dreams of surrender. Can this rebel find a way to keep the peace with the straitlaced sheriff? Or will Chloe's colorful past keep her from a love that lasts . . . and the safe haven she truly wants in a town called Lucky Harbor? [goodreads]

The third installment in the Lucky Harbor series is centered around Chloe, the youngest of the three sisters.  She's been painted as the "wild child" in the first two books.  With her free spirited nature and live life on the edge personality, it's going to take a lot to settle this girl down.  Never planting roots while growing up has caused her to never get too close to anyone.  Sure she cares about her two older sisters, and yes she has a want to stay in Lucky Harbor and run the B&B with them, but she's always had an out -- something to escape too when things got too serious.

This time though, that something serious is Lucky Harbor's town sheriff, Sawyer.  He hasn't exactly grown up safe and easy either.  He's had a bit of a wild past, too.  However, he's attempting to turn over a new leaf and ground himself.  Just when he thinks he can get by without anyone else either, Chloe makes that impossible for him.  These two characters had an instant chemistry from book one.  Even though their story didn't emerge until this book, you had a feeling something was brewing there.  Their connection was an instant flame.  HOT! HOT! HOT!  From the looks they gave each other, to the wild moments shared alone, I was constantly fanning myself.  Their relationship has most definitely been my favorite to read about so far.

Once again Jill Shalvis has given us two rich characters with individual voices demanding to be heard.  Underneath all the fiery passion is a story with deeper contexts.  I saw the frightened girl who kept herself hidden behind that strong facade; the girl who longed to feel content and solid with her life.  I also noticed that guy who attempted to put on a steel face, but really he was a man exhausted from the weight he carried around on his shoulders.  These two characters attempted to be polar opposites, but truly it was obvious their connection brought them back time and time again.

This book held so much of what I love in a contemporary adult romance.  It's proven how much I am enjoying this series, as the books just keep getting better and better.  If I haven't sold you yet from my previous two reviews, then perhaps this book will put you over the edge and cause you to dive in to Lucky Harbor... Head Over Heels.

The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor, #2) by Jill Shalvis

The Sweetest Thing (Lucky Harbor, #2) by Jill Shalvis
Published: April 1, 2011 by Forever
Received: Purchased e-book from B&N

Two Men Are One Too Many . . .

Tara has a thousand good reasons not to return to the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington. Yet with her life doing a major crash-and-burn, anywhere away from her unfulfilled dreams and sexy ex-husband will do. As Tara helps her two sisters get their newly renovated inn up and running, she finally has a chance to get things under control and come up with a new plan for her life.

But a certain tanned, green-eyed sailor has his own ideas, such as keeping Tara hot, bothered . . . and in his bed. And when her ex wants Tara back, three is a crowd she can't control-especially when her deepest secret reappears out of the blue. Now Tara must confront her past and discover what she really wants. If she's lucky, she might just find that everything her heart desires is right here in Lucky Harbor. [goodreads]

The second book in this series takes place in the same quaint seaside town of Lucky Harbor, but this time the story revolves around Tara: the uptight, control freak sister.  She's made the decision to stick around and help her sisters get the Inn started, that their deceased mother has left behind for them.  Though she vows to only stay long enough to get things comfortable for everyone, there's a slight edge of hesitance.  Something is pulling her to stay longer, and it's certainly not the Inn.

Ford holds a piece of her past.  They met when they were seventeen, and what started as a hot summer quickly went up in flames.  The two of them never dealt with the consequences of their past.  Instead, Tara took off running and Ford let her go.  It's what the two of them do best.  Now they are forced to deal with their past, and ultimately end up rekindling an old flame that never truly burned out.

I loved the dynamic of this story.  Yes, there was tons of heat and passion, but there was also this emotional story revolving around so many of the characters.  It put a spin on the story and allowed you to connect with it in a whole new way.  I had already fallen in love with the town of Lucky Harbor and all its inhabitants in the first book, but this one allowed me time to really get to know individual characters.  Both Tara and Ford were constantly pulling away, only to jerk themselves right back into each others arms.  Their connection and chemistry was certainly present through out.

This series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine among Adult Contemporary Romances.  I love the balance between humor and passion, yet so easily sliding in something with more substance when you least expect it.  The flow of Jill Shalvis' writing is so easy to get lost in.  I devoured this book in no time and am desperate to move on to the third book ASAP!  I've dropped anchor and plan to stay in Lucky Harbor for a bit longer.

Simply Irresistible (Lucky Harbor, #1) by Jill Shalvis

Simply Irresistible (Lucky Harbor, #1) by Jill Shalvis
Published: October 1, 2010 by Forever
Received: Purchased e-book via B&N

Maddie Moore's whole life needs a makeover.

In one fell swoop, Maddie loses her boyfriend (her decision) and her job (so not her decision). But rather than drowning her sorrows in bags of potato chips, Maddie leaves L.A. to claim the inheritance left by her free-spirited mother--a ramshackle inn nestled in the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington.

Starting over won't be easy. Yet Maddie sees the potential for a new home and a new career--if only she can convince her two half-sisters to join her in the adventure. But convincing Tara and Chloe will be difficult because the inn needs a big makeover too.

The contractor Maddie hires is a tall, dark-haired hottie whose eyes--and mouth--are making it hard for her to remember that she's sworn off men. Even harder will be Maddie's struggles to overcome the past, though she's about to discover that there's no better place to call home than Lucky Harbor. [goodreads]

I have been on a quest to find the perfect Adult Romance for myself. Nothing too cheesy, and nothing too embarrassing (let's be real -- Ginger covers her eyes and gets red cheeks when certain body parts are given silly names).  Thanks to my good friend Jess for recommending this book to me, I've found just the right mix of passion and depth within this contemporary adult romance.  She knows my tastes all too well.

The first thing that captured my attention with this particular story was the setting.  I could totally visualize the small beach side town of Lucky Harbor.  It reminded me of such places that I see in movies.  With the fall/winter season approaching quickly, I welcomed the change of season in my reading material as well.  Though Texas never sees snow like the Pacific Northwest, I still enjoy experiencing it through vividly told stories such as this one.

The other dynamic of this story which really won me over is the story line.  I love the idea of starting over when you feel as though you've hit rock bottom.  I mean, what could possibly go wrong?  Well, lots of things in Maddie's case.  But there's always that silver lining somewhere and I really connected with Maddie, her sisters, and the various people in Lucky Harbor who continuously searched for it.

And then there was the passion.  Oh my.  Maddie meets Jax within the first few pages; however, their tension builds for quite some time after that.  It's not just about the physical connection though, there's something richer, deeper there, and as the reader you instantly feel it.  Experiencing their encounters one after the other was a treat for me to read about.  Yes, there were moments when I blushed like crazy, but there were also more sweet, mature moments that I could identify with.

I know that there are several books in this series, and have been told they follow various characters and their stories.  I've already picked up the second book and plan to make my way through all of them, eventually.  I have a desire to read more contemporary romance novels, but they have to be the perfect fit for me.  The Lucky Harbor series by Jill Shalvis definitely captured my interest!