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7 Most Ideal Ways to Plan Your Honeymoon: a guest post by Rebecca Siggers

January 8, 2020January 6, 2020 Marie Lavender

7 Most Ideal Ways to Plan Your Honeymoon

There is no better way to spend quality time with your spouse than going on your honeymoon. It is also the only place where you get to reboot and refresh yourself after the stress you have had the past couple of days. You should, however, keep in mind that the only way you will have a great time on your honeymoon is if you plan it well. Here are the seven most ideal approaches to prepare for your honeymoon.

Start planning early

The only way you are going to have an incredible experience is if you start planning your honeymoon months before the due date. That trick is going to help you put everything in place. You also get to have plenty of time making choices and changing reservations if you wish. Saving for your honeymoon also requires you and your spouse to start early. The best honeymoon is one where money doesn’t limit you. It should be something extraordinary that makes you forget about everything else and instead enjoy every moment. That can only happen if you plan early.

Communicate with people

Communication is not the only key to your relationship, but also one of the best ways to ensure you have a remarkable honeymoon. One of the main tips to plan for your honeymoon and make it memorable is to communicate. Don’t book a hotel and assume that you are going to get it all in place. Inform the management that you are newlyweds, confirm what you think might be missing, and ensure they have everything you have on your checklist. Some hotels tend to reserve special rooms for newlyweds to enhance your experience.

Confirm you have your travel documents ready

You might have been too busy planning your wedding that you forget to renew your passport and other travel documents. It is thus essential that you have every travel document ready. These include a travel visa as well as passports. Some countries require you to have certain vaccines before you enter. So do all the research and obtain documents to show you have got the required vaccines. Without travel documents, you may miss your honeymoon, or you may have to go to a local destination. So don’t ruin your honeymoon simply because you did not confirm if you have all the right travel documents.

Watch out for special bonuses

Most companies tend to offer exclusive bonuses to newlyweds. That is why you need to communicate, as indicated earlier. You should also take advantage of planning earlier and start looking out for special bonuses. These may be free drinks if you spend a certain amount at the restaurant or free dessert for couples on their honeymoon. Something about special bonuses is that they always help you stay within your spending margin while having a great experience.

Opt for privacy and not popularity

There are so many fancy places where you can go for your honeymoon and have a great time. But then you need to ask yourself, is the destination private? If yes, then you should proceed. An excellent honeymoon does not require a popular place crawling with people from all walks of life. It instead requires a private and calm place. Somewhere romantic with delicious foods, mouthwatering desserts, and incredible drinks such as Andre champagne. The location should also be quiet with outstanding services. You don’t want to ruin your honeymoon by going to a popular but crowded place where people don’t give you room to enjoy the company of one another.

Come up with an itinerary

The easiest and hardest thing to do is to develop a perfect schedule. You need to come up with a schedule which you are going to stick to. Know which places you plan to visit and for how long. You need to balance between adventure and relaxation for you to have a super lovely honeymoon. The itinerary is also going to ensure that you do or visit every place you have in mind. For as long as you are on your honeymoon, you need to be time conscious.

Pack accordingly

Not everyone knows how to pack efficiently. Your honeymoon doesn’t require you to pack too much, but just enough to ensure you have something suitable for every occasion. You need to ensure that you pack light so that you don’t have a hard time maneuvering the streets in your destination. It is one of the ideal ways to plan for your honeymoon. Know the weather on the other end, and use it to plan your outfits.

Those are so far some of the ideal ways to prepare for your honeymoon. This information will help you make the right decision and end up with a memorable honeymoon. Remember to confirm and compare everything from the means of transport you want to use to the hotel you are planning to stay. Doing so will ensure you have no regrets whatsoever.

Such great tips!

Thank you, Rebecca, for this useful article, offering some advice on how to effectively plan a honeymoon… ♥♥♥

Guest Blogger Bio

Rebecca Siggers is a working Designer and passionate writer. She enjoys writing about the latest fashion tips and lifestyle trends all around the globe. Through her writing, she hopes to influence as many people as possible to help out.

Links

Twitter: https://twitter.com/siggers_rebecca

Other Articles by Rebecca: https://mystoryonline.org/7-style-tips-for-gentlemen-over-thirty/
https://aloha.com/blogs/nourish/6-organic-and-healthy-road-trip-snacks
https://www.teachworkoutlove.com/8-best-vacation-spots-for-military-families/
https://www.confettitravelcafe.com/7-must-visit-new-zealand-attractions/
https://greatlifezone.com/why-traveling-makes-you-a-better-person/
https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/08/6-fashion-tips-for-a-mans-first-date-a-guest-post-by-rebecca-siggers/

http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/2019/12/top-ten-amazing-gifting-ideas-for-new-year-2020-guest-post-article-by-rebecca-siggers.html

http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/2019/12/seven-things-to-gift-for-housewarming-guest-post-article-by-rebecca-siggers.html

Thanks again! We hope to see you back on ILRB sometime.

As always, happy reading, everyone! 😉 Have a great week!

Action & Adventure, annual, Authors, Blogging, Books, dark romance, Drama, Event, Faith, Fantasy, feature, Gothic, Historical, Holiday, LGBT, Love, Message, New Beginnings, Paranormal/Urban Fantasy, Poetry, Readers, reflections, Reviews, Romance, romantic ideas, Second Chances, Special Feature, Stories, Time Travel, Writers, Writing

Flashbacks of 2019 and Looking Ahead to 2020 – A Chance for Renewal…and Reincarnation?

December 31, 2019December 5, 2019 Marie Lavender

Hi, readers! I hope you’re having a wonderful New Year celebration! 😀 Such a crazy busy year, right?

Anyway, let’s get down to discussing why we’re here. If you’re a loyal follower, then you know I do a New Year’s Eve post every year.

When our clocks and calendars reset, and we switch to another digit or two once a year, it becomes a time of renewal. A chance to look back on the ups and downs – our experiences throughout the year – and to digest the opportunity of starting over. Finally, it’s a clean slate, though our memories will always be with us, and thereby color the past and present in numerous ways.

For some reason, this ‘reset’, so to speak, always makes me think about the idea of reincarnation.

Due to some parts of my personality, I’ve actually wondered in the past if I would’ve fared better as a Victorian woman (LOL). Whether or not this concept jives with your belief system, in a way, we reinvent ourselves each year – reincarnate – shucking the cocoons we’ve been in just to face our metamorphoses with new wings and horizons. The reset is often cathartic.

To honor this notion, I’ve decide to take a moment and list some reincarnation romances I found on Amazon. Afterwards, I’ll give you an overview of all the I Love Romance Blog posts from 2019, divided by respective category. Just in case you missed any of them! 😉

Without further ado, let’s check out some romance books with a reincarnation theme…

Wow, they all look awesome! Let’s see what happened this year, too.

Listed below are the links to all of our posts from 2019.

Character/Author Interviews

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/19/exclusive-interview-with-author-lisa-doughty-and-look-at-historical-romance-ella-and-the-experiment/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/26/exclusive-interview-with-author-faye-hall-and-look-at-historical-romance-wrath-and-mercy/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/28/a-character-interview-with-josh-from-think-of-me-plus-a-chat-with-author-kat-schuessler/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/05/a-character-interview-with-selene-from-selfs-blossom-plus-chat-with-author-david-russell/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/12/character-interview-with-abigail-from-lady-saves-the-duke-plus-a-chat-with-author-annabelle-anders/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/exclusive-interview-with-author-scarlett-holloway-plus-a-look-at-mc-romantic-suspense-policy-of-truth/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/19/character-interview-with-dylan-from-lyrical-embrace-plus-a-chat-with-author-amber-daulton/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/21/exclusive-interview-with-author-kimberly-stuart-plus-look-at-contemporary-romance-sugar/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/28/exclusive-interview-with-author-kaitlynzq-and-a-look-at-romance-audiobook-legend-of-song-de-light/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/02/exclusive-interview-with-author-nicolina-martin-plus-look-at-mafia-romance-suspense-heat/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/09/exclusive-interview-with-author-sheri-langer-plus-look-at-contemporary-romance-love-lines/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/25/exclusive-interview-with-author-kathryn-troy-plus-a-look-at-time-travel-fantasy-romance-curse-of-the-amber/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/02/character-interview-with-miranda-from-the-end-of-hatred-plus-a-chat-with-author-rebecca-hefner/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/09/exclusive-interview-with-author-isabelle-moss-plus-a-look-at-adult-literary-romance-fantasy-eros-and-the-magician/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/11/exclusive-interview-with-author-sierra-n-terry-and-look-at-fantasy-romance-beneath-the-surface/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/23/exclusive-interview-with-author-dana-littlejohn-and-look-at-multicultural-erotic-romance-tri-romance/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/25/exclusive-interview-with-author-jamie-schulz-and-look-at-dystopian-western-romance-suspense-jakes-redemption/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/09/19/exclusive-interview-with-author-barbara-wallace-and-look-at-contemporary-vacation-romance-one-night-in-provence/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/09/24/exclusive-interview-with-author-chris-ann-yim-and-look-at-military-romance-liaison-in-lyudinovo/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/15/exclusive-interview-with-author-maggie-blackbird-and-look-at-multicultural-romance-sanctified-matawapit-family-series-book-three/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/07/exclusive-interview-with-author-angela-ford-and-look-at-new-adult-sweet-western-romance-series-the-healing-hearts-ranch/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/12/exclusive-interview-with-author-linda-diane-wattley-and-look-at-inspirational-military-romance-a-love-story-to-remember/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/14/exclusive-interview-with-author-xina-marie-uhl-and-look-at-western-romantic-comedy-lady-law-and-the-texas-derangers/

New Release/Book Features

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/07/new-release-feature-meant-to-be-kept-by-author-amelia-foster/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/02/book-feature-texas-maverick-by-authors-sable-hunter-and-ryan-oleary/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/04/new-release-feature-the-impalers-wife-by-author-autumn-bardot/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/09/book-feature-loving-justice-by-author-sable-hunter/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/23/new-release-feature-redeemed-by-author-maggie-blackbird/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/30/release-blitz-driving-reigns-by-bella-jeanisse-presented-by-words-turn-me-on/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/16/free-book-feature-the-hitmans-mistake-by-author-sally-brandle/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/06/cover-reveal-feature-dopey-women-by-author-laura-barnard/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/08/01/book-feature-the-reluctant-husband-by-author-eliot-grayson/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/17/cover-reveals-miracle-express-series-holiday-historical-romance-books-by-authors-rebecca-lovell-and-dawn-brower/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/26/new-release-feature-with-q-and-a-clean-contemporary-romance-rescue-road-by-author-gayle-m-irwin/

Film/Music Features

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/24/special-music-feature-plus-q-and-a-christopher-ferguson/

Blog Tours

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/21/blog-tour-feature-indigo-knights-series-by-a-j-downey/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/26/blog-tour-feature-multicultural-romance-expecting-tys-baby-by-empi-baryeh/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/25/blog-tour-feature-georgian-romance-wicked-wager-by-beverley-oakley/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/07/blog-tour-feature-multicultural-romance-the-destiny-series-by-gloria-silk/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/06/cover-reveal-feature-dopey-women-by-author-laura-barnard/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/18/blog-tour-feature-lovecontu-song-de-light-lovecontu-audio-set-by-kaitlynzq/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/08/01/book-feature-the-reluctant-husband-by-author-eliot-grayson/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/17/cover-reveals-miracle-express-series-holiday-historical-romance-books-by-authors-rebecca-lovell-and-dawn-brower/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/22/blog-tour-feature-with-q-and-a-adult-romantic-adventure-passion-punch-by-tricia-leedom-and-kindle-fire-giveaway/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/21/blog-tour-feature-adult-fantasy-romance-sealers-game-by-kathy-coleman/

Blog Awards

http://blog.feedspot.com/romance_book_blogs/ – TOP 100 Romance Blogs (#45)

http://blog.feedspot.com/novel_blogs/ – TOP 100 Novel Blogs (#67)

Personal Book News/Reviews

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/06/chance-to-win-a-free-historical-romance-boxed-set/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/vote-for-this-cover-please/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/27/two-great-reviews/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/08/heiresses-in-love-trilogy-by-marie-lavender%f0%9f%92%95-spotlight-exclusive-ebook-bundle-giveaway-%f0%9f%92%95-historical-romance/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/03/win-a-copy-of-blue-vision-and-other-books/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/12/03/a-sci-fi-romance-you-just-cant-miss/

Giveaways

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/21/blog-tour-feature-indigo-knights-series-by-a-j-downey/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/06/chance-to-win-a-free-historical-romance-boxed-set/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/26/blog-tour-feature-multicultural-romance-expecting-tys-baby-by-empi-baryeh/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/25/blog-tour-feature-georgian-romance-wicked-wager-by-beverley-oakley/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/07/blog-tour-feature-multicultural-romance-the-destiny-series-by-gloria-silk/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/16/free-book-feature-the-hitmans-mistake-by-author-sally-brandle/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/06/cover-reveal-feature-dopey-women-by-author-laura-barnard/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/08/heiresses-in-love-trilogy-by-marie-lavender%f0%9f%92%95-spotlight-exclusive-ebook-bundle-giveaway-%f0%9f%92%95-historical-romance/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/18/blog-tour-feature-lovecontu-song-de-light-lovecontu-audio-set-by-kaitlynzq/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/03/win-a-copy-of-blue-vision-and-other-books/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/22/blog-tour-feature-with-q-and-a-adult-romantic-adventure-passion-punch-by-tricia-leedom-and-kindle-fire-giveaway/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/21/blog-tour-feature-adult-fantasy-romance-sealers-game-by-kathy-coleman/

Blog Hops & Personal Romantic Thought Posts

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/romance-novel-memories-plus-a-reader-poll/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/09/12/20-questions-book-tag/

Guest Posts

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/05/top-valentines-day-traditions-around-the-world-a-guest-post-by-dating-connections/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/11/five-ideal-settings-for-a-marriage-proposal-a-guest-post-by-sarah-jacobs/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/20/we-all-have-dreams-a-guest-post-by-author-sheri-langer/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/16/love-at-first-sight-a-guest-post-by-author-holly-bargo/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/30/top-10-dating-tips-for-the-modern-woman-a-guest-post-by-author-kai-nicole/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/03/ten-effective-conversation-starters-for-couples-guest-post-by-dr-b-anne-hancock/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/10/29/stunning-tips-to-consider-before-dating-a-guest-post-by-maggie-holmes/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/08/6-fashion-tips-for-a-mans-first-date-a-guest-post-by-rebecca-siggers/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/11/19/planning-a-wedding-the-right-way-a-guest-post-by-dora-potter/

My Romance Articles

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/14/a-to-z-of-romance-a-valentines-romance-blogger-post-by-marie-lavender/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/16/big-myths-that-should-be-dispelled-about-romance-novels-a-romance-blogger-post-by-marie-lavender/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/15/how-shopping-correlates-with-dating-and-relationships-a-romance-blogger-post-by-marie-lavender/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/08/06/my-top-six-dream-wedding-locations-a-romance-blogger-post-by-marie-lavender/

What Does Romance Mean to Me? Series Feature

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/07/18/special-feature-what-does-romance-mean-to-me-by-lynn-chantale/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/09/26/special-feature-what-does-romance-mean-to-me-by-the-smut-report/

Heroes & Heroines Series Feature

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/07/heroes-heroines-special-feature-character-erica-timberly-from-lyrical-embrace-by-amber-daulton/

Poetry

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/03/national-poetry-month-feature-miles-of-our-memories-a-poem/

And, of course, we can’t forget our book reviews from 2019! Check them out, in case you missed these awesome book titles! 😉

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/01/16/book-review-beneath-this-mask-by-meghan-march/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/01/23/book-review-aloha-baby-by-ann-omasta/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/01/30/book-review-legends-of-lust-by-autumn-bardot/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/06/book-review-valentine-in-venice-by-kaya-quinsey/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/13/book-review-boardroom-bedroom-by-gemma-snow/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/22/book-review-dear-heart-by-linda-lingle/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/02/27/book-review-take-my-heart-by-j-j-sorel/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/10/book-review-the-key-of-f-by-jennifer-haskin/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/14/book-review-undercover-siren-by-ellen-mint/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/20/book-review-jakes-redemption-by-jamie-schulz/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/03/21/recommended-read-book-review-break-my-chains-by-nicolina-martin/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/04/04/book-review-the-homecoming-bayou-shifters-book-1-by-tammy-tate/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/05/18/book-review-the-impalers-wife-by-autumn-bardot/

https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/23/book-review-unglorious-war-by-maxine-flam/

I have so much gratitude for author Kevin Ethan, due to the excellent book review work he did for a while there on this romance blog. He was always so pleasant to me. Let’s all wish him a swift and successful recovery during this rough time he’s going through…

Well, I hope we’ve given readers some new novels to find, as well as fascinating romantic posts to glance over.

Many thanks to all the participating authors and guest content writers! ♥♥♥ You’ve helped to expand ILRB into what it is today. 😀

On a final note, I’d like to extend an invitation to both writers and readers to contribute to our guest book reviews (see our blog policy for more information). My current book reviews are closed, as I need to time to work my way down the list, but I will get to them. So…if you’d like to do a shout out with a brief commentary on a book you loved, please email me and I’ll get your guest book review scheduled. Use the subject heading ‘Interest in Writing A Guest Book Review on ILRB’. There’s no need to be shy at all! 😀 I can just put your first name on the post, if you prefer. These guest book reviews will be published on the blog in a first come, first served fashion. Additionally, as a thank you, I’ll add the book title to ‘Our Fave Reads’ page on ILRB for more exposure to romance readers. 🙂

Doesn’t sound like a bad deal, right? And, of course, we’re open to new ‘What Does Romance Mean to Me’ posts. You do not need to have written or published a book to participate!

In the meantime, I’m always willing to help out with book features, new release features, author and character interviews, and other types of posts to promote your work.

I hope you have a wonderful, successful new year, and it leaves you healthy and content! 😉

Happy reading, as always, and Happy New Year, everyone! 🎉

Anxiety, article, Blogging, Contemporary, Engagement, Event, family, feature, Guest Writer, Hope, Love, Message, Planning an Event, Readers, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas, stress, tips, Traditions, Wedding

Planning A Wedding – The Right Way: a guest post by Dora Potter

November 19, 2019November 17, 2019 Marie Lavender

Planning A Wedding

– The Right Way

It would not be wrong to say that a wedding changes your life completely. We cannot live the same breath as we used to before our wedding. That is why the wedding day is probably the most essential in a person’s life. It is very crucial to keep this day memorable so that we always remember this day in the right words.

To do that, we have to plan our wedding in such a way that people love it, and at the same time, your wallet is not hurt.

Hence, get ready to prepare a wedding bouquet as we will show you step by step how to plan a perfect wedding. Make sure you read the full article.

STEPS TO PLAN YOUR WEDDING DAY:

The wedding should be the biggest party that you are ever going to throw. Hence, here we will help you out in planning your biggest day. Please read all the steps. The steps are…

Plan a budget.

Sit with your elder ones & set a wedding budget. Make a particular figure that you can spend on your wedding. While planning a budget, don’t be a miser as well as don’t waste money on useless things. Plan a balanced budget and make your day the most memorable day of your life.

Get unique ideas.

This step can make your wedding a unique one. Search on the internet and find out the ways through which you can plan your wedding. You can get inspiration from weddings on any known celebrities. You can also plan your wedding by getting ideas from Instagram or any other social media.

Create a guest list.

Now again, this point is essential. You should know who and what type of people are coming to your wedding. If you know how many people are coming only, then you will be able to select a suitable venue as well as prepare a proper meal. Without knowing the number of people coming, your wedding will be ruined completely. Hence, create a list and invite only those who are mentioned in that list.

Select a venue.

After you have prepared a balanced budget, you will know what type of venue you should choose. Choose a venue according to the number of people you have invited. While selecting a venue, make sure you pick dates that are suitable for every guest. It is recommended to choose dates which are of holidays because on such days everyone is available. You can find many venues easily online.

Create a wedding website.

It seems odd, but this is the best way to keep your relatives and guests in touch. When you have a wedding website, you will be able to put all the information on that website. The information can be timing, venue, dress code, et cetera. In this way, you will not have to call each guest to inform him/her about the changes that you made in initial plans, but you can put that on your website, and your guest will know about it.

Book vendors.

Vendors are the ones who manage your whole wedding ceremony. It is good to book as many vendors as possible. These vendors will help you out in any way possible. On average, people usually book thirteen to fifteen vendors for each ceremony. Vendors are professionals in their field, and they will make your wedding day a perfect day.

Purchase attire.

For men, don’t rush while selecting perfect attire. Give yourself time to choose what is best for the best day. Make sure you look better than any other guy on your wedding day. You need to be the MVP of that day & your attire is the only thing that will make you MVP. Hence, make sure to spend the right amount of time in this step.

Finalize the meal.

Whether it is lunch or dinner, decide this as soon as possible. Make a rough list of meals and show them to catering agencies. The number of meals should be according to the number of guests.

Plan your honeymoon.

Don’t wait till the wedding ends, or you will never be able to plan your honeymoon. Set up your honeymoon with the wedding plan. It is good to go on a honeymoon right after the wedding. Plan your honeymoon destinations, reserve hotels, and book tickets.

Enjoy Pre-Wedding events.

There are many events that you can enjoy before the primary wedding day. In our culture, we usually celebrate a bridal shower, bachelor party, and many more. Make sure you attend all of these events as a guest of honor.

Get the marriage license.

Now, this is the most crucial step in the whole guide. If you want to marry legally, then attend to the matter of a marriage license. Every country and every state has different laws in this regard. Make sure to read all these laws before applying for the marriage license. In some states, a marriage license takes some time. So, ask for it before planning venues and everything.

Get married!

After all this hard work, enjoy your day and get married. Make your day a memorable day for all. Do everything in your power to make your wedding day the best day of your life.

Keep so many surprises for your partner on the wedding day to impress her. On the wedding day, make sure to kiss your partner in such a way that you never did before.

CONCLUSION

For many people, a wedding day comes only once in life. Live this day and forget everything about the past and future. After you have married, love your partner with the love she deserves. Do everything in your power to keep her happy.

Give her surprises, give her gifts, help her in her work, and be there when she needs you to be there. Be a partner that she wants you to be. In any unwanted situation, understand her feelings and don’t get angry.

If you do all of these, your life will be the happiest.

Such great tips!

Thank you, Dora, for this useful article, offering some advice on how to plan a wedding… ♥♥♥

Guest Blogger Bio

Dora Potter is from Singapore. She is a wedding planner with exceptional qualities, professionally handling various problems for the success of her projects. Dora ensures to satisfy her customers with her amazing and creative planning skills.

Links

Website: https://www.secretflorists.com/

Thanks again! We hope to see you back on ILRB sometime.

As always, happy reading, everyone! 😉 Have a great week!

Authors, Blogging, Book News, Books, characters, Event, Faith, feature, Fiction, Hope, inspirational romance, Interview, Love, Military Romance, Readers, Romance, Writers, Writing, Writing Tips

Exclusive Interview with author Linda Diane Wattley, plus a look at inspirational military romance, A LOVE STORY TO REMEMBER!

November 12, 2019November 12, 2019 Marie Lavender

Hi, readers! I am pleased to announce a very special post today on ILRB. We’re doing something a little different. This is our twentieth official author interview on this romance blog! I know in the past, we did character interviews then switched over to the author’s take on it, but this approach is a bit unusual.

We have a real treat for you, readers. Today we get to speak one-on-one with a talented author. Please join me in welcoming Linda Diane Wattley to ILRB! 😀

Marie Lavender: Hello, Linda. Please have a seat.

Author Linda Diane Wattley: Hi, Marie!

Marie: Hey, such a pleasure to have you here!

I’m going to throw in some standard questions first.

Obviously, we know your occupation as an author, but some writers have other jobs as well. Do you have another occupation? Do you believe you’re any good at it? Do you like what you do?

I know I’m overloading you with questions, but we’re really interested in finding out more about you…

Linda: I am an Assistant Manager at a union-based company that services membership support to our field staff. I am a talk show host who enjoys interviewing people who have a heartfelt truth they would like to share with the world.

Great! ♥

So, tell us…what is your family like?

Linda: My family is a small nucleus but filled with a lot of love and loyalty. My mother is 82 years old and so filled with life. My two sons, Marcus and Robert, make me a proud mother as they have a heart for children and their future. Currently they are unified as football coaches who are not coaching them on the football field but the realities of life as well. I am a widow hoping to marry again one day. But in the meantime, I enjoy my beautiful, lovely grandchildren, Jaelynn, Myla, Marcus, Mara and one on the way. Also, two brothers of whom l love dearly.

Marie: Wow, so many!

Let’s try something else, okay?

If it doesn’t bother you at all, can you let us know what your childhood home looked like?

Linda: I remember a beautiful white house that my mother kept perfectly clean.

Marie: All right.

Do you have any hobbies, Linda? What do you enjoy doing?

Linda: I enjoy listening to music, especially music from the 70’s. I enjoy reading and writing. Family time means a lot to me. Walking in the park is another favorite. Meditation and Yoga is a practice I hope to improve. Love watching music and going to my sons’ football games.

Marie: Nice! 😀

So, what is your greatest dream?

Linda: My greatest dream is to be so free I don’t have a worry in the world!

Marie: Sounds like a plan!

Let’s try another question.

What kind of person do you wish you could be? What is stopping you?

Linda: A healthy and rich person. For now, I can say I am healthy, but I could do better with fitness. Now being rich, I just don’t know how to make it happen. If my book becomes a movie, that would be great.

Marie: I know, right? 😉

So, who was your first love?

Linda: My first love was not the guys I met in school, but the one I met in the United States Army. He was the man in my life who taught me what love looks like. He married me and gave me two amazing sons. Robert D. Wattley III is my heartthrob.

Marie: Aww! ♥♥♥

With the next question, I hope I’m not prying too much, but we are curious…

What’s the most terrible thing that ever happened to you?

Linda: Becoming a widow at the age of 27 with two sons to bring up.

Marie: Oh, goodness, I’m so sorry you went through all of that! 😥

Let’s move on to another topic, shall we?

[Linda nods.]

What was your dream growing up? Did you achieve that dream? If so, in what ways was it not what you expected? If you never achieved the dream, why not?

Linda: At first, I wanted to be a schoolteacher. Then I wanted to be a psychologist, but all that changed once I had children. I guess I lost myself while tending to my children. Eventually, after realizing the power of words, I wanted to be an author who aided in the healing process of heart and soul.

Marie: Wow! 😀

Who is your role model, Linda?

Linda: I do not have a role model, but I can say my sons have taught and showed me many things that make me a better person.

Marie: Great!

Well, let’s try something else.

Is there someone you pretend to like but really dislike?

Linda: Interesting question! (Laughs.) None I can recall.

Marie: Okay.

What is your deepest desire?

Linda: Great health!

Marie: (Nods.) Can’t blame you for wanting that! And, of course, you deserve it! ♥

Let’s go for a different approach now.

Just curious here, but what is your greatest fear?

Linda: Death.

Marie: That’s an understandable fear. 😕 It is odd sometimes to realize how very short life is.

Let’s switch gears for a second.

If you were trapped on a deserted island, what five essentials would you need with you? They don’t have to be practical.

Linda: Blanket, iPad, phone, food and water.

Marie: They all sound good to me! 😀

Okay, readers, let’s get the author’s perspective on one of her characters.

We’ve heard rumors about the heroine of your story, Leona Tillard. Quite an interesting character. Can you tell us a little about her?

Linda: Leona Tillard is the main character, who shares her journey from being a little girl to becoming a young woman. While growing up, she didn’t see happy adults so she was not in a hurry to grow up, but she does and discovers a world of love and self-awareness that comes with a price that she must grow to understand. Joining the United States Army marked the beginning of how her past experiences affected her understanding of normality and love.

Marie: All right.

And what are Leona’s greatest strengths?

Linda: Leona’s greatest strengths are her ability to seek understanding of life, trust God, honesty and compassion.

Marie: Nice!

Any weaknesses of which we should be aware?

Linda: She does not trust people and she is naïve.

Marie: (Nods.)

Let’s try something fun, shall we?

What are Leona’s favorite foods?

Linda: Cookies, ice cream, chicken, greens and hamburgers.

Marie: (Chuckles.) All great on their own, of course, but I would never combine them. 😉

How about another question?

What’s a positive quality that your character is unaware that he or she has?

Linda: Leona is gifted with intuition and healing others mentally and physically. She is incredibly determined to understand others as well as herself.

Marie: How admirable!

Will readers like or dislike this character, and why?

Linda: I believe readers will love Leona because she is not a negative person. Though she was dealt a tough hand, she moves forward and she reveals our human need to understand self, love and life. She refuses to be a victim.

Marie: Happy to hear it! 😀

Now that we have a real taste of Leona, we have a few questions for you as well as the author, about the writing process of your book.

What first gave you the idea for A Love Story to Remember?

Linda: I came up with that title based on the loves Leona experiences from birth to becoming a woman. The male roles in this story are real and reveal how men love women who have suffered unjustly in life. It also reveals God’s love for us behind the scenes.

Marie: Nice! It’s fascinating how the muse works, huh? 😉

Let’s try something else.

What is your writing style like, Linda? Are you a pantster or a plotter?

Linda: I am more of a plotter; I believe in having a bottom line and supporting it.

Marie: Okay.

So, I’m throwing this one in for our aspiring writers. Did you come across any specific challenges in writing A Love Story to Remember, or in publishing it? What would you do differently the next time?

Linda: I read this book at least twenty times, and every time I read it, I found errors. I had help with editing, but all errors did not go away even then. If you can get a great editor, get one because no one likes to read books with errors. As far as publishing, I knew I wanted a publishing company that listens. The publishers were great.

Marie: That’s great advice! And believe me, I feel your pain. I learned it the hard way years ago, and was even inspired to write an article on my alternate blog about the importance of editing.

Well, it was a total pleasure having you here on the I Love Romance Blog! And how apropos is that, considering what a great tale A Love Story to Remember appears to be… ♥

Let’s learn more about this book.

Title: A Love Story to Remember

Genre: Military Romance, Inspirational Romance

Publication date: September 15, 2019

Here is the blurb:

A Love Story to Remember reveals the intrinsic realities of our need to love and be loved. There is something about hearing the words, ‘I love you’ that enriches our lives even though its meaning is endless. Leona Tillard, a soldier of the United States Army, woke up one day drowning in the sea of love. ‘I love you’ ruled her life.

She knows God loves her, but she does not know who He has chosen for her to love. Sometimes God speaks through others to reveal answers we seek. Are you chosen to reveal her true love?

Linda is giving us a peek at the story…

“I can’t take any more chances. I don’t want to feel anymore. Don’t you understand? I’m cursed. Stay away from me,” I cried as I ran down the trail into the darkness.

“Leona. Where are you? This isn’t funny, you’re scaring me.”

Tony finally caught up with me. When he did, I placed my arms around his neck and kissed him.

“Whoa, Leona!”

Seeing Tony calm down from my touch reminded me how powerful touch can be.

“I love you, Tony.”

“You don’t have to say that.”

“Yes, I do.”

When we got back to the house, Tony turned off the car and got in a comfortable position and tilted the steering wheel. He looked like a different person than the young man who came to pick me up. I wondered if I looked different as well.

“You’re beautiful, Leona. I just wish you would see it. Let me make you feel good.”

“I don’t think I’m ready for sex yet.”

“That’s not what I’m talking about. I want to touch your heart and mind first, and then your body. I want you to feel me every time you breathe. I want my presence in your life to be the source of your strength, faith, hope, love and certainty. I want your heart and everything in it.”

“You sound like God, you know?” I smiled.

He laughed.

“How did we get on this subject, Leona?”

“You started it,” I said as I laid my head on his shoulder.

Tony and I found each other again. This time it seemed like we had God with us. Talking about God so freely reminded me of the freedom I shared with my first crush, Andrew.

Tony and I spent a lot of time together. He became my healer. I was ready to rejoin my life in the Army. I had one week left before I was due to arrive at Fort Sill, and I wanted to take Tony with me. Even though I was enjoying him, I couldn’t wait to get back into my life as a soldier.

The day I was set to leave, Tony came over and had dinner with us. My mom made the best roast, but it wasn’t enough to kill the sadness hanging over the room. Tony wasn’t himself, and his silence was beginning to make us uncomfortable, so I took him by the hand and pulled him outside to the porch.

“What’s the matter?”

“Nothing, I do have quiet moments, you know,” Tony answered defensively.

“Talk to me, Tony.”

Tony turned away from me and began walking toward his car.

“Sorry, Leona, I got to go. Have a safe trip.”

“Just like that, you’re walking out on me! Why? Be man enough to tell me why!” I yelled as I walked toward his car.

“I will never have you, Leona,” he said mournfully.

I shook my head in confusion. “What are you talking about?”

“Did you know you talk in your sleep? I thought it was no big deal at first. But then one night, no two nights, you cuddled up with me on the couch and called me Doug! Leona, I can’t compete with a ghost!”

I let out a sigh. “Don’t do this, Tony. My parents are waiting for us. Can we talk about this later?”

Tony shut the car door and walked back up on the porch.

“I would like us to at least make it through dinner,” I said.

After dinner, my dad and Tony watched a football game while Mom and I cleared the table and washed dishes. When we finished washing dishes, Tony and I decided to go out for a while alone. As soon as we got in the car, we both apologized to each other at the same time.

“No, wait; let me say this before we go any farther. I may have said Doug’s name in my sleep, but it doesn’t mean I don’t have room in my heart for you. I was traumatized, Tony. Sudden death is no joke.”

“I know. I guess I was a little jealous.”

“I have a surprise for you. At least, I hope it is a surprise. I wanted our last night together to be special.”

We rode in silence, listening to one of Tony’s jazz list of music. We pulled up in front of a hotel and Tony parked the car, got out, and came over to my side to help me out. With his hand in mine, we walked into the hotel. We didn’t have to check in because he already had the key to our room. I didn’t know how I felt about this. All I knew was he and I were about to be alone. When he opened the door, the candlelight and roses all over the room overwhelmed me. There were rose petals strewn all over the bed. Before I could say anything, Tony picked me up and threw me in the middle of the fragrant pile.

Intense! Can’t wait to find out what happens next. 😀

Purchase Links:

Universal Reader link: https://books2read.com/u/mqD5av

Publisher link: https://www.penitpublications.com/product-page/wattley-linda-a-love-story-to-remember

What are people saying about A Love Story to Remember?

“This book shows us how previous generations can affect later ones. Family issues, trauma, abuse, and mental health can affect us all. Overcoming our past is a part of the human struggle. Very engaging read.” – Earl Hall Studio, Amazon

“A Love Story to Remember by Linda Diane Wattley is a fictional love story about life, the need for love, redemption, and personal internal survival. The author draws from her own experiences as a veteran in the United States Army. Even in this fictional account, Linda demonstrates the inner strength to overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and find a path to recovery.

I encourage you to read all of Linda’s books and engage with her through her online television show, ‘The Truth Will Set You Free’ by TLBTV. This platform and the Liberty Beacon Project has proven to be a powerful beacon of light. Linda is available for speaking engagements, book signings and interviews.

I endorse this book and all of Linda’s endeavors to help PTSD survivors.” – Theodocia McLean, Book Marketing Global Network

Looks fantastic! 😉

We’ll be sure to get a copy of this military inspirational romance! ♥♥♥

About Linda Diane Wattley

LINDA DIANE WATTLEY is a veteran of the United States Army. She is an advocate for sufferers of PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and for those who have suffered from all forms of victimization to include domestic violence and sexual abuse. Her message is all about getting to the best truths that allows victims to be set free. Linda does this by sharing her gifts and talents that God gave her. One being an author of several books that lead readers to go deep within themselves to find their own inner strength and voice.

Linda was also a contributing columnist with the Frost Illustrated Newspaper in Fort Wayne, Indiana titled, “THE BEST WILL SHOW THEMSELVES” for over twelve years where she shared truths that stirred hearts and minds of readers in spiritual matters.

Today, she has opened a platform for others to share their truths with the world. Her online television show, THE TRUTH WILL SET YOU FREE by TLBTV and the Liberty Beacon Project has proven to be a powerful beacon of light.

Her current book, A LOVE STORY TO REMEMBER is a uniquely written book sharing the journey to love after a dysfunctional past. It shows how men love and have their own spiritual understanding of life. Understanding someone with PTSD in relationships brings out the best in you in numerous ways. This love story will have you wondering who the man God has chosen for the main character, Leona Tillard. Will you choose him after reading her story?

Linda Diane Wattley lives to do God’s Will. She is available for book signings, speaking engagements and interviews.

Books:

And, if you want to know how to connect with the fascinating Linda Diane Wattley, here are some author links…

Website: https://sites.google.com/site/lindadianewattley1/home

Show: http://www.tlbtv.com/category/the-truth-will-set-you-free/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lindadianewattley/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/universalove
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Linda-Diane-Wattley/e/B00JNTEYK6/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14441999.Linda_Diane_Wattley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindawattley/

Once again, I want to thank Linda Diane Wattley, the brilliant author of this military romance with an inspirational romance theme, for stopping by! It was a pleasure to have you here! Readers, check out her work! ♥

Authors, Blogging, Book News, Books, characters, Contemporary, Drama, Event, Faith, family, feature, Hope, Interview, Love, New Adult, Readers, Romance, sweet romance, western, Writers, Writing, Young Adult

Exclusive Interview with author Angela Ford, plus a look at new adult sweet western romance series, THE HEALING HEARTS RANCH!

November 7, 2019November 4, 2019 Marie Lavender

Hi, readers! I am pleased to announce a very special post today on ILRB. We’re doing something a little different. This is our nineteenth official author interview on this romance blog! I know in the past, we did character interviews then switched over to the author’s take on it, but this approach is a bit unusual.

We have a real treat for you, readers. Today we get to speak one-on-one with a talented author. Please join me in welcoming Angela Ford to ILRB! 😀

Marie Lavender: Hello, Angela. Please have a seat.

Author Angela Ford: Hi, Marie!

Marie: Hey, such a pleasure to have you here!

I’m going to throw in some standard questions first.

Obviously, we know your occupation as an author, but some writers have other jobs as well. Do you have another occupation? Do you believe you’re any good at it? Do you like what you do?

I know I’m overloading you with questions, but we’re really interested in finding out more about you…

Angela: Numbers by day…Words by night! I work in Accounting during the day and when evening sets in, words come from my heart. I write romance – happily-ever-afters – sometimes sweet…sometimes spicy…sometimes suspenseful.

Great! 😀

So, tell us…what is your family like?

Angela: Loving…supportive and big…strength in numbers! I have six siblings. I’m the second youngest.

Marie: Wow, so many!

Let’s try something else, okay?

If it doesn’t bother you at all, can you let us know what your childhood home looked like?

Angela: Warm and welcoming. A modest three-bedroom bungalow until Dad finished the basement, with an extra bedroom! But back then it felt bigger…must have been all the love in it!

Marie: Nice… 😉

Do you have any hobbies, Angela? What do you enjoy doing?

Angela: Reading…walking…and chasing that sunset! I love crafts, but it’s not one of my better talents. (Laughs.) I do collect seashells while walking the beach and chasing that sunset! Lately I’ve been autographing those seashells and sending them to my readers as a keepsake…remind me to send you one!

Marie: Oh, that would be fantastic! Love the beach! 😀

So, what is your greatest dream?

Angela: I’m living it! Writing from the heart and sharing with my readers 🙂

Marie: Sounds like a plan. ♥

Let’s try another question.

What kind of person do you wish you could be? What is stopping you?

Angela: I like who I am…a kind soul. My mom taught me to treat others the way I want to be treated. Live simply…love generously.

Marie: All right.

Who was your first love?

Angela: My mom. The first to give me warmth and love…the first voice I heard…and the first to show me what love really means.

Marie: Aww! ♥

With the next question, I hope I’m not prying too much, but we are curious…

What’s the most terrible thing that ever happened to you?

Angela: I focus on the positives in life…they keep me a strong and kind soul.

Marie: Okay.

Let’s move on to another topic, shall we?

[Maggie nods.]

What was your dream growing up? Did you achieve that dream? If so, in what ways was it not what you expected? If you never achieved the dream, why not?

Angela: I’ve always wanted to write…it’s always been in my heart. I have achieved this with over 50 published works and my readers make my heart smile every time we connect.

Marie: Awesome! 😀

Who is your role model, Angela?

Angela: I have two! My parents. They’ve loved, taught, guided and supported me through the years. They’re also my ‘fairytale’ couple and inspire the true love in my romance writing.

Marie: I know what you mean. My parents are a good match, too. 😉

Well, let’s try something else.

Is there someone you pretend to like but really dislike?

Angela: No, not one soul. There may be some whose behaviors I don’t agree with, but that’s what makes us all individuals and unique.

Marie: True!

What is your deepest desire?

Angela: I hope to meet my soul mate in this universe someday and have my own happily-ever-after.

Marie: (Nods.) And, of course, you deserve it! ♥

Let’s go for a different approach now.

Just curious here, but what is your greatest fear?

Angela: The time that will, unfortunately, come without my parents.

Marie: I know. Mine are getting on in age. It is odd sometimes to realize how very short life is.😕

Let’s switch gears for a second.

If you were trapped on a deserted island, what five essentials would you need with you? They don’t have to be practical.

Angela: Well…if there’s basic food, shelter, safety, and those I love are okay…then I’d pick my laptop (so I can write!), wine, chocolate, music…and Kenny Chesney…a girl can dream!

Marie: (Chuckles.) 😀

Okay, readers, let’s get the author’s perspective on one of her characters.

We’ve heard rumors about the heroine of your story, Raine Willows. Quite an interesting character. Can you tell us a little about her?

Angela: Raine is in her mid-twenties as the story begins. She’s a social worker, living the city-life until she receives news of her grandfather’s passing and returns to the farm she lived on with her Gramps. Coming home brings her peace and helps her find the love in her heart, through the wise words left by her Gramp’s letter.

Marie: All right.

And what are Raine’s greatest strengths?

Angela: She’s a strong, caring, gentle soul with self-driven, hard-working ethics.

Marie: Nice!

Any weaknesses of which we should be aware?

Angela: Forgetting who she was and the love she has to offer.

Marie: (Nods.) It is tough to open your heart again once it’s been bruised.

Let’s try something fun, shall we?

What are Raine’s favorite foods?

Angela: She loves and lives for bacon! Also loves pancakes and the dinners Luke makes…he’s the boy-next-door, her childhood best friend and the one who her heart belongs to. At the end of each book, I share a recipe of one of Raine’s favorites..

Marie: Cool!

And bacon with pancakes…yes, please! 😉

How about another question?

What’s a positive quality that your character is unaware that he or she has?

Angela: Once she’s returned home to the farm and reads her Gramps’s letter…she begins to realize the love in her heart is plenty to share and help other’s hearts heal.

Marie: How admirable!

Will readers like or dislike this character, and why?

Angela: They’ll love Raine…she’s a good soul, down-to-earth, caring individual. She’s had her struggles and heartaches to which we can relate to; and her giving, kind heart that keeps us loving her.

Marie: Happy to hear it! 😀

Now that we have a real taste of Raine, we have a few questions for you as well as the author, about the writing process of your book.

What first gave you the idea for The Letter Left?

Angela: My daughter requested a YA series…one for her age group. One of the sweet romance genre, and most important…a story based around the love of horses and healing hearts.

Marie: It’s fascinating how the muse works, huh? 😀

Let’s try something else.

What is your writing style like, Angela? Are you a pantster or a plotter?

Angela: I consider myself a planster! I plot to a certain point…then I just write!

Marie: Me too! 😉

So, I’m throwing this one in for our aspiring writers. Did you come across any specific challenges in writing The Letter Left or publishing it? What would you do differently the next time?

Angela: The Letter Left was my 25^th published single title and even with the experience I’ve gained along the way, I continue to challenge myself to improve my writing and my research to make it realistic. A story, we as readers, can relate to as we enjoy the journey. And I will continue to do so with the next story! And to continue to write from my heart, loving what I do!

Marie: Sounds like a plan!

Well, it was a total pleasure having you here on the I Love Romance Blog! And how apropos is that, considering what a great story The Letter Left appears to be… ♥

Let’s learn more about this series.

Title: The Letter Left (book one of The Healing Hearts Ranch)

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Western, New Adult, Sweet Romance, Family Saga

Publication date: July 29, 2019

Here is the blurb:

A story of remembrance, a gift, and a love rediscovered through healing hearts.
Angela Ford takes a different direction this time to bring you a new adult series. A story centered around family, horses, true love, and finding your way from the wise words left to you.
Jack Willows was a great man. He always put others first. He’d taught his granddaughter to do the same. Raine Willows left her grandfather’s farm at eighteen to find her way in life. Seven years later, his death brings her back to the farm and her first love–the boy next door.
An empowering story of healing through horses. A farm that introduced her to the boy next door–Luke Daniels. The one she could never forget, no matter how many years and miles came between them. Grief reunites them, horses help heal their hearts, and gives them an idea to help others. An idea that had been her grandfather’s dream for her. The letter he left, changed the direction of her life and her heart.

Angela is giving us a peek at the story…

Raine found Luke in the kitchen cleaning up the breakfast he’d prepared for her. A slight touch of guilt for his gesture crossed her. “Hey.”

Luke kept washing the dishes in the sink. “Just wanted to clean up my mess before I left.”

His tone pulled at her heartstrings. Guilt set in a little deeper. “I’m sorry, too. I didn’t mean to be unappreciative of your nice gesture of breakfast. I was just – shocked to find you here.”

Luke reached for the dishtowel and turned to face her as he dried his hands. “But making light of the situation only came across as me being an ass.” He chuckled. “For that, I’m really sorry.” He walked closer to her. “Jack didn’t want you to know about the farm because he knew you’d keep him here, give up your job in the city and take care of him.”

Raine nodded. “And that, he clearly didn’t want.” She would have done it. She would have done anything for Jack Willows.

Luke leaned against the counter. “He loved you, Raine. More than anything. He knew you loved him and would have taken care of him.”

Raine stood quiet for a moment. She knew Luke was right. She was as stubborn as her grandfather. “But why didn’t he mention you were here? Why are you here, Luke?”

Luke took a deep breath. “Jack is”—he corrected himself—“was a great man. After my father passed, I came back to save the farm, but my dad had let it go along with himself. Jack heard about it and asked if I’d do him a favor.” Luke smiled at Raine.“Who wouldn’t do a favor for Jack Willows?”

Raine nodded in agreement and Luke continued with the reason he’d been there. “Jack wanted to leave the farm to you, Raine; but he didn’t want you to turn down the offer at the hospital to care for him. He told me he always wanted you to find your own way in life.” Luke paused with a smile, “But he also said the farm was a big part of you, and when the day came, you’d know what to do.”

Luke turned and opened a drawer. He pulled out two envelopes. One he opened and showed it to Raine. A letter in her grandfather’s handwriting, dated almost two years ago. It was an agreement signed by him and it reiterated what Luke had just told her. Raine looked at Luke and then pointed to the other envelope in his hand. “What’s that?”

Luke moved closer and handed her the envelope. “Jack wanted me to give this to you after his death.”

Raine felt the moisture build in her eyes. With trembling fingers, she took it from Luke’s hand. She stood for a moment in silence. She didn’t know if she could read the last words from her grandfather.

Luke pulled a chair out from the table and motioned for Raine to take a seat. “I’ll give you some time to read that in private.”

Raine smiled. “Thank you.” She appreciated the respect he offered while she read her grandfather’s letter. He nodded and placed the letter opener on the table and made his way up the back staircase.

Raine reached for the opener and let it slide across the sealed letter. Slowly, she opened the neatly folder paper to find her grandfather’s writing. As she read the words he’d left her with, a solemn tear fell down her cheek. The lump in her throat gave her the sensation it would not be a single tear, but she fought hard against the urge to cry. She needed to relax her tangled thoughts to read his words to her.

Intense! Can’t wait to find out what happens next. 😀

Purchase Links:

Universal Reader link: https://books2read.com/u/b6kq6p

Publisher link: http://bookstogonow.com/books/the-letter-left/

Add it to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46643279-the-letter-left

What are people saying about The Letter Left?

“What a beautiful second chance romance, a story with mixed emotions of memories, loss, and new beginnings. It is a story of dreams, healing, and renewed sweet romance. The story is a sweet, clean, heartfelt romance with a great cast of characters and interaction. It is the first of several in this new series, The Healing Hearts Ranch. ‘One day at a time.’” – Redrabbit, Amazon

“Family love. Separation. Death. Patience. Dreams. This story has everything, absolutely loved it. Sweet, thoughtful and also a tear jerker. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!” – Melissa, Amazon

“I REALLY LOVE THE LETTER LEFT. IT IS A VERY EMOTIONAL AND POWERFUL READ WHICH WILL MAKE YOU CRY AND LAUGH. THIS IS A WELL WRITTEN STORY WITH CHARACTERS THAT FELT VERY REAL IN EXPRESSING THEIR EMOTIONS AND GRIEF. THE STORYLINE IS VERY BELIEVABLE AND SO ARE ALL THE CHARACTERS. I THINK THIS IS SOME OF ANGELA FORD’S BEST WRITING. I ENJOYed THE STORY OF HORSES HELPING PEOPLE HEAL I THINK ALL ANIMALS CAN BRING COMFORT TO PEOPLE WHEN THEY NEED IT. THE LETTER LEFT IS A MUST READ. AUTHOR ANGELA FORD NEVER DISAPPOINTS WITH HER WRITING AND STORIES. SHE IS A MUST READ AUTHOR AND IS ONE OF MY FAVORITES.” – Victoria Zumbrum, Amazon

Looks fantastic! 😉

Let’s switch to the sequel…

Title: Harvest Homecoming (book two of The Healing Hearts Ranch)

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Western, New Adult, Sweet Romance, Family Saga

Publication date: September 29, 2019

Here is the blurb:

An empowering story centered around family, horses, love and loss, friendship and betrayal, and finding your way from the wise words left to you. The wholesome family saga continues on a ranch in the Montana mountains in the small town of Crystal Creek.

The lazy-hazy days of summer give way to shorter days and endless views of vibrant colors during the town’s harvest festivities. Crystal Creek High kicks off the season’s opening game while seniors, Cassidy and Kaitlyn prepare for the horse show, a cheating boyfriend, and saddle up for a promposal to the homecoming dance.

Love is in the air as the festivities begin. Equine therapist, Dr. Pam Whitfield, arrives at the ranch on the day of Raine and Luke’s engagement party and meets a local farmer in attendance. Jackson Knox makes an impact and she remembers his name like its been engraved on her heart. With the first guests arriving shortly after the festivities, Trainer Kelly Brannan must deal with a past romantic issue which may affect the opening of the Healing Hearts Ranch and her job.

Angela is giving us a peek at this story as well…

Purchase Links:

Universal Reader link: https://books2read.com/u/mKxqgB

Publisher link: http://bookstogonow.com/books/harvest-homecoming/

Add it to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48152900-harvest-a-homecoming

What are people saying about Harvest Homecoming?

“Crystal Creek felt like home. The Healing Hearts Ranch book series are sweet, wholesome stories that could be read by teenagers as well as adults. The story is a sweet, clean, heartfelt romance with a great cast of characters and interaction. They are full of real-life emotions, young love, new beginnings, old friends, town traditions, and friendships. While this is a saga, the story is well-written and could be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend that you read the first book, The Letter Left, that sets up this series.” – Redrabbit, Amazon

“Sweet, clean and delightful! I really enjoyed Angela Ford’s Harvest Homecoming, her second story in ‘The Healing Hearts Ranch’ series. We get to meet new characters that are charming and lovable. It’s a captivating story focused around family, horses, hope and second chance. It’s also sweet, clean and refreshing! If you love horses, you will easily connect with this new series!” – Nicole Laverdure, Amazon

“This was a cute fall read that continues from one of this author’s other books. It has a homey, family feel to it and brings all the loves of fall together!” – Cara C., Amazon

Wow, love these book covers!

We’ll be sure to get a copy of this sweet, new adult modern western romance series, with an occasional YA twist! ♥♥♥

Healing Hearts Ranch – An empowering series centered around family, horses, love and loss, friendship and betrayal, and finding your way from the wise words left.

About Angela Ford

Angela resides in Nova Scotia – Canada’s Ocean Playground. Inspired by sunsets, the ocean, her family, and books! She is never without a book, whether she’s reading or writing. Angela is a bestselling and award-winning author who has been in the Amazon top fifty, Readers’ Choice Awards and ScreenCraft. She has over 50 published works in paperback, eBook, audiobook, and foreign translation. An Award of Distinction sparked the idea for her first book Closure, which hit Bestselling Action & Adventure, Women’s fiction. In between mysteries, Angela writes short contemporary romance. She loves to connect with her readers!

Books:

And, if you want to know how to connect with the fascinating Angela Ford, here are some author links…

Website/Blog: http://www.angelafordauthor.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/writerangelaford

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AngelaFord67

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Angela-Ford/e/B00EAYZBYM/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7213399.Angela_Ford

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/angela-ford

Newsletter Sign-up: https://bit.ly/2C8DdeI

Publisher: http://bookstogonow.com/tb-author/angela-ford/

Once again, I want to thank Angela Ford, the brilliant author of this new adult, sweet contemporary western romance series, with the backdrop of a family saga, for stopping by! It was a pleasure to have you here! Readers, check out her work! ♥

Blogging, Contemporary, Drama, Event, Faith, Guest Writer, Interview, Love, Message, music, new release, Readers, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas, score, Writers

Special Music Feature and Q&A: Christopher Ferguson

October 24, 2019October 20, 2019 Marie Lavender

Hi, readers! I am beyond pleased to announce a very special post today on ILRB. Here is a great new music release by writer and musician Christopher Ferguson. Please help me in welcoming him back to this romance blog! 😉

Christopher Ferguson is giving look at his romance album, With Love, today.

Great cover!

This is the info on With Love:

With Love is a project started by the musician/composer, Chris Ferguson of Northern Alabama. Begun originally as a small collection of love songs, the project has grown and become a campaign to offer support for other charitable organizations that offer music, performance and educational services to schools and local communities. The current roster of charities that With Love supports is listed on the webpage http://www.wearewithlove.com. The website also includes original writings that have been featured on NPR, and original songs published on Reverbnation.com.

Currently featured on Reverbnation, the song “Beautiful Tears Will Fall” has 7.3 million listeners worldwide and With Love is ranked #1 locally (Northern Alabama), #1 regionally (Southeast U.S.), #1 nationally (U.S.) and #1 globally on Reverbnation. With a focus on hope, compassion and thoughtful self-reflection, the songs and stories from With Love offer a way for everyone to think of our life experiences as a part of a shared journey.

We also have a real treat for you, readers. Today we get to speak with the musician and composer.

Marie Lavender: Hello, Chris. Please have a seat.

Christopher Ferguson: Hi, Marie! Great to see you again.

Marie: It’s such a pleasure to have you here! Please tell us a little about With Love. What brought you to create it, and what is your origin story?

Chris: I met a musician that changed everything that I knew. His name is Tim Noah. I started playing bass for him at his concerts and I saw that what he offered was not just music. It was much more than that. He started a live performance theater and invited anyone and everyone to participate. Young and old, experienced musicians and pure beginners, everyone is welcome to share their talent and message. It created a community that cares for one another. His efforts have been recognized with six Emmy awards. It’s really quite amazing.

Marie: Nice! 🙂

So…you are a musician, but you are also a writer. Tell us something about that.

Chris: There is an organization in Northern Alabama called The Huntsville Literary Association (HLA). It has about 200 members, which includes professional writers, university English professors, poets, and novelists. Harper Lee (To Kill A Mockingbird) and Billy Collins (Poet Laureate of United States, 2001-2003) have been members. I was invited to become a member because of a story I wrote that was broadcast on NPR about a 75 mile wilderness hike I took. The Poetry Group of the HLA intrigued me and I joined that group. We meet every month and present new works that we read aloud and everyone offers feedback. It has helped me to write more meaningful messages in the form of poetry that I then turn into songs. The HLA has also helped me to become a better short story writer as well, which I write for NPR.

Marie: Wow, isn’t it fascinating how the muse works? And such a great resource for you to develop your writing. Sounds like fun.

Any new works we should know about?

Chris: Well, I like to read the New York Times. Recently, I saw a story about a girl that lived in Sarajevo during the Serbian War in 1993. It was a really touching story. She was in high school and had been asked to go to the prom by her boyfriend. But the war interrupted that and she never got to go. Her family moved away from Serbia and she never saw her boyfriend again. Until twenty years later, when she got a text message from a mystery phone number. It was her high school sweetheart asking her to go to the prom…again. The story really touched me.

So, I wrote a piece called “A Simple Thing” that presents the story in a narrative and song form. The song features Keith Taylor (piano), and Ingrid Marie (vocal) and myself on upright bass. It was produced by Phil Williams. I really love what he did for the production, a great, artistic result.

Marie: So cool! Your music and writing resonates with the ILRB audience. It’s great when someone finds us because of a link that was included on another website like With Love.

Chris: Yes, I have been surprised at how the romance novel audience has embraced With Love. It just shows that there are some really passionate people interested in what the I Love Romance Blog offers. Such a cool and fun collaboration.

Marie: Aww, thanks! Can you tell our readers where and how to find your music and writing?

Chris: Sure, a new website was created for With Love earlier this year.

Of course, With Love has a Facebook page too.

And the website used for publishing music is called Reverbnation.

Marie: Thank you so much for letting us know more about your music and your story. I am sure that our readers will find something they can enjoy and share with others. Best of luck!

Chris: Thank you, Marie. It is always great to talk with you, and the I Love Romance Blog is really what we all need right now, I read it often!

Marie: Awesome! ♥♥♥

Readers, check out one of the songs, “Beautiful Tears Will Fall”, here!

Also, here’s Christopher’s new release and single on Reverbnation called “A Simple Thing”, featuring Ingrid Marie on vocal, Keith Taylor (Dean of Music, Univ of Alabama, Huntsville) on piano, and Chris on acoustic bass, produced by Phil Williams. Plus a live verson on YouTube! 😉

Wow! Thank you for telling us about your album! It looks wonderful! 😀

Readers, don’t forget to check this album out at ReverbNation. You’re sure to be moved by these songs!

Writer/Musician Bio

My name is Christopher Ferguson. I am primarily a musician/composer (….a bass guy) and have also been writing for NPR for the last couple of years, as well (mainly just short stories that I narrate and that get broadcast on our local NPR station here in Alabama).

I call my brand of music “With Love”. The music is piano, bass and vocal. It is intentionally not loud or aggressive. I am writing gentle songs, that are soft and require the attention of a listener, with the intent of giving them something to use to reflect upon their own thoughts and feelings of love.

Link

Website: http://www.wearewithlove.com

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

ReverbNation: https://www.reverbnation.com/fergusonandwithlove/songs

Thanks again, Christopher! We hope to see you back on ILRB sometime, perhaps with your next musical release.

Happy listening, everyone! 🙂

Blogging, Contemporary, Dating Tips, Event, Guest Writer, Hope, Love, Lovers Like Us, Message, Readers, reflections, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas

Ten Effective Conversation-Starters for Couples: a guest post by Dr. B. Anne Hancock

October 3, 2019September 27, 2019 Marie Lavender

10 Effective Conversation-Starters for Couples

Communication is an essential ingredient in any relationship. For couples, rich conversation makes their relationship delicious. It’s what builds connection and creates intimacy. For couples who’ve been together for a while keeping conversations fresh and interesting can take some effort.

If you want to keep your conversations fresh and avoid telling each other the same stories, one effective solution is to try conversation-starters. By asking a few new questions, you’ll learn there’s always more to discover in the person you love.

Here are several ideas for opening a dialogue that reignites curiosity, affection and interaction:

What’s your earliest childhood memory?

Most couples didn’t get to share childhood together, so there’s a wealth of experience just waiting to be tapped for conversation. Asking your partner about an early memory means you get to find out what left an imprint and why. You also gain insight into a part of his or her world that helped shape who your significant other is today.

What do you remember most from our early days of dating?

Here’s a question that can take you both back to your budding love — that place where your connection began.

Even better, as you listen to your partner recall happy memories, it may surprise you with what’s remembered, not to mention help stir up fresh affection for you both.

What’s one of your favorite memories from our wedding day?

Recalling milestones in your relationship is a great way to discuss the happy moments you’ve shared. If you’re married, your wedding day is especially meaningful. Ask your spouse what stands out about that memory and enjoy it from another perspective.

If you were given the chance to relive one day of your life, what would it be and why?

Maybe your better half would want to revisit a major milestone such as graduation, the birth of a child or your wedding day. Perhaps he or she would like to relive a day with a parent or grandparent who passed away or even an event from high school or college. You’ll never know until you ask.

Do you have any dreams you wish you could pursue? Are there ways I could help you try them?

Most adults have abandoned dreams still lurking somewhere inside them. Do you know what dream your partner longs to pursue? It could be something outlandish and surprising and you’ll get to be playful and imagine together. Or, it could be practical, such as taking a class, and you can be the encouraging voice to help your partner get right on it.

When was the last time you felt appreciated?

People don’t always verbalize their feelings unprompted. By asking your partner about what has encouraged and affirmed him or her, you may be surprised at what you hear. You’ll also learn how you can offer up additional support.

When was the last time you felt sad?

Likewise, if your partner lets you in and tells you what’s been hurtful and discouraging, you’ll get a sense of what’s truly important. What prompts tears? What feels significant enough to change a mood? By asking…and listening, you get a chance to learn.

If you could turn back the clock ten years, what would you tell your younger self?

This question offers your significant other a chance to assess and evaluate a decade of life, giving you a window into his or her regrets and wisdom gained. This can also start a conversation about moving forward with new information and insight.

Say you won an all-expense paid trip to anywhere in the world, and you can’t consult me before picking the destination. Where would you go?

Find out what travel destinations are on your partner’s dream list. Couples who have spent a long time together will often be so used to asking each other about preferences that it’s easy to miss what each one likes. Let your partner know you care about what he or she wants.

If you had to pick three people, who would you say you most admire?

There’s a lot to be said for admiration. The people you highly regard are often the people you imitate — intentionally or not. Ask your partner who he or she looks up to and why. You’ll discover what qualities he or she values.

The 10 ideas listed are merely the beginning for prompting meaningful conversations with your partner. Be curious. Ask questions. Invite discussion and keep learning. Continuing to discover each other is what helps your relationship feel alive and exciting year after year.

Wow! These are such great tips!

Thank you, Anne, for this illuminating article… ♥♥♥

Guest Blogger Bio

Anne Hancock, PsyD, is a prominent relationship therapist and founder of Wellness Counseling Center. A licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Hancock specializes in working with couples and families. She has a doctorate in Psychology and a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. Hancock always works from a wellness-oriented, non-pathologizing point of view — which means no blame, no shame. In addition to couples counseling services, Hancock also conducts personalized two-and-a-half-day couples intensives.

Links

Website: https://thewellnesscounselingcenter.com/

Blog: https://thewellnesscounselingcenter.com/articles/

Professional Background: https://thewellnesscounselingcenter.com/team/anne-hancock/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/banne.hancock

https://www.facebook.com/pages/B-Anne-Hancock-PsyD/436325916561152

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WellnessCNSLNG

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annehancockpsyd

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnesscounselingcenter/

Thanks again! We hope to see you back on ILRB sometime.

As always, happy reading, everyone! 😉 Have a great weekend!

Blogging, Books, Contemporary, Dating Tips, Event, feature, Fiction, Guest Writer, Hope, Love, Message, Readers, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas, Special Feature, Stories, Writing

Special Feature: What Does Romance Mean to Me? by The Smut Report

September 26, 2019September 21, 2019 Marie Lavender

Hi, readers! I am beyond pleased to announce a very special post today on the I Love Romance Blog. In recent years, I asked both authors and romance readers to come to me with their responses to this big question: “What Does Romance Mean to Me?” I was genuinely interested in what made us all tick, what continued to draw us to the genre. Why do we love “love” so much? I wanted to dig deep to the heart of each person. And I’ve gotten some incredible feedback.

Without further ado, let’s turn the mic over to blogger The Smut Report, a female team with a few things to say about the question at hand.

What Does Romance Mean to Us?

At The Smut Report, we read a lot of romance novels. Like, a LOT of romance novels. And let’s be real – there’s a stereotype floating around that people who read romance novels have a skewed idea of romance and relationships. Obviously, we must be delusional spinsters or miserable sex-starved moms who expect men to read us poetry and/or fight monsters and/or know exactly what we want at all times.

Romance is also super oversimplified. There are pivotal life events like birth and death that, when addressed in literature, are considered really “deep” and vulnerable and raw. This non-genre fiction is lauded for its thoughtfulness and meaning. There’s a whole sub-genre dedicated to “coming of age” and all the inner turmoil that comes with that — but a genre whose sole purpose is to unpack the delicious, unsettling, sloppy moments leading up to individuals falling in love? That’s for unsatisfied housewives.

Falling in love transforms individual people into something new, something with overlap and grey area and messiness. And strength. In romance we see people coming together to form a stronger whole, yet we also see how having the support of a loving partner can provide a wellspring of strength to an individual.

But before that can happen, all the messy feelings and social and personal obstacles must be resolved. There are new debates in the romance community every day about whether it’s romance if there’s no happy ending, if there’s no sex, if there’s this, or that, or the other thing. These arguments reflect this messy, sexy, grey area that exists in our lives when we love. This genre, maybe more than any other genre, asks us to be honest about what a satisfying life looks like. And it acknowledges that the answer is different for different people.

Even though the three of us have somewhat divergent tastes (Erin likes heroes who ooze power, Holly prefers her books on the sexy side, Ingrid sometimes skips the sex scenes so she can get back to the witty banter), there are a few things that we all love in a romance novel. Far from creating unrealistic ideas of what romance is, the best romance novels feature satisfying portrayals of emotional connection. It makes us ask what pleasure looks like for YOU, what commitment looks like for YOU. You know, that extra spark that brings out the swooning romantic in the most jaded of us. (That would be Holly, in case you were wondering.)

Romance can be just a fun, sexy romp or a swashbuckling adventure, but it can also bring you closer to yourself. It’s a safe way to examine romance in your own life–your likes, your dislikes, what you want to feel and how you want to be loved. You know it when you read it.

Flower photo created by tirachard – http://www.freepik.com

We recently went to an author talk in which Sarah MacLean said she loves the increased use of dirty talk in romance because it’s “ongoing consent”. How amazing is that? That there are authors looking for ways to make love scenes more clear, more unfettered, by making sure the consent is obvious AND beautifully done. This stuff matters.

Romance is a largely inclusive genre – and that’s important. The authors who write these books are constantly bursting open doors and welcoming more people in. It matters to have characters that look like real people and who love like real people do. Race, gender identity, sexual orientation–it’s all discussed in the romance literature written every day. Possibly there are not really people in love with shifters, we acknowledge (if there are, Erin would like to hear from you). But in all seriousness, there are so many different combinations of who loves whom (and how many love together) out in the world that it’s appropriate and necessary for such love to be reflected in our literature.

And where reality fails us, we have the opportunity to explore the notion of romance in the “other” in paranormal, sci-fi, and other sub-genres of romance. The authors who are opening these doors and windows for us readers are also readers themselves, and we support each other. Romance creates community, even if we never speak directly to one another.

In short, romance means a lot to us. It’s been a source of comfort and connection for us for decades. It’s made us think about things in different ways. It makes us test ourselves. It’s made us uncomfortable and angry and happy. We have literally cried and literally laughed so loudly that we’ve scared pets and woken sleeping children.

Romance brings us joy. It’s as simple as that.

Lovely! I couldn’t have said it better myself… 😉

Thanks for stopping by with your fascinating guest post! Great to have you here! ♥

Guest Bio

The Smut Report is the brainchild of Erin, Holly, and Ingrid, three thirty-somethings who have been swapping smut books for twenty years. They’ve read a lot of smut and love the genre. They want to share their love of smut with people who already love to read romance, but also with people who are curious about the genre, yet are a little bit scared to dive right in. So, in order to further their goal of sharing the wonderful, witty, and downright weird corners of the world of smut with everyone they know, they started a blog, where they can chat about romance novels to their hearts’ content.

Links

Website/Blog: https://smutreport.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/smutreport

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/91403885-smut-report

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smutreport/

Wait, we’re not quite finished!

So, I put the question to you as a reader today as well. What does the word ‘romance’ really mean for you? Is romance a driving force in your life? How have your beliefs about romantic relationships informed your own relationships? Perhaps seeing other couples (parents or friends) were some kind of influence. By reading romance novels, does that help to reaffirm things for you?

If you’d like to participate in this special feature, please contact me at marieannlavender@gmail.com and I’ll schedule a spot for you. As you can tell from the schedule on the right hand side of the page, we usually get booked fast, but don’t hesitate to join in! You do not need to be a freelance writer or author, or even from a romantic themed organization. We want to hear from anyone. We’d love to get your take on how you feel about romance, and why you keep reading our books! ♥♥♥

Thanks again, The Smut Report, for giving us your take on what romance (and the book genre) has come to mean to you, plus some food for thought. Awesome! 😀

Readers, stay tuned for our next guest post when Dr. Anne Hancock visits ILRB on October 3rd! Yay! 🙂

Have a great weekend, everyone!

Authors, Blogging, Contemporary, Dating Tips, Engagement, Event, Hope, Love, Lovers Like Us, Marie Lavender, Message, Readers, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas, Traditions, travel, Wedding

My TOP 6 Dream Wedding Locations: a romance blogger post by multi-genre author Marie Lavender

August 6, 2019September 30, 2019 Marie Lavender

My TOP 6 Dream Wedding Locations

Ever since I got engaged to my soul mate a few years ago, I’ve thought about the perfect locations for a wedding.

My fiancé and I have entertained big and small celebrations, anything from local to international ceremonies. And yes, most options tend to depend on the size of your wedding budget and the number of guests you intend on having.

Now, even though I’m a dreamer by nature, I am also a realist. That must be the Libra in me, weighing both sides! LOL. But in real life, I am much more likely to see the glass as half empty than remotely full. Lately, though, I have begun to see the benefits of taking an optimistic approach with some facets of life. Why not dream a little after all? What could it hurt?

So if money was no issue, where might I choose for my wedding location? Well, I can’t pick one right now, but I will try to narrow down the regions a bit.

England

My familiarity with British TV shows and movies has always led to a fascination with areas ‘across the pond’, so to speak.

A. London

Museum of the Moon

Located inside the Natural History Museum, this is a very modern event space which is only available from May to September. Looks like a cool place to hold a wedding reception, right? 😉

Sky Garden

With its stunning panoramic views, a wedding there is bound to be an unforgettable event.

One Marylbone

If you’re looking for an elegant place for a wedding and reception, this seems like a good choice.

Porchester Hall

This modern event space with different rooms is rather versatile, suitable for any type of occasion.

The Penthouse – Brick Lane

This private event space at a bowling alley might not seem like a great idea at first, but if you’re set on a casual yet intimate atmosphere, and aim to treat your guests to a lot of fun, it’s just perfect!

For London and its surrounding regions, Canvas Events is a great source for reserving a venue. You can even book Kensington Palace!

Wild, right? 😀

B. Castles/Manors

I have a weakness for historical romance novels, and I’ve always wanted to visit all the lovely castles in Europe. Let’s look at some fancy venues in England.

Hedsor House – a country house with an Italianate style on the Buckingham-Berskshire border, and set amongst 100 acres of historic parkland.
Hengrave Hall – a Tudor style mansion complete with great halls and elegant chambers in the Suffolk countryside.
Chiceley Hall – a Georgian country mansion, decked out in the Baroque style with 48 rooms, a restaurant and a bar.
Clevedon Hall – a huge wedding venue in Somerset, situated on seventeen acres and boasting 25 luxurious bedroom suites.

C. Hotels

Dumbleton Hall Hotel – a 19^th century Cotswald stone manor house with nineteen acres of gardens and a private lake.
The Grand Hotel – located at Tynemouth, close to the beach with a clifftop overlook. It has quite a history, having been originally built as a home for the Duchess of Northumberland.
Matfen Hall Hotel – a 19^th century country mansion in Northumberland, located on 300 acres of parkland. They recently added a newly refurbished wedding space.
The Lodore Falls Hotel – situated on the shores of Derwentwater in Borrowdale, Cumbria in Lake District National Park. The site has 40 acres of tranquil land with a waterfall and a lakeshore.

These are all great choices! Here are some other venues to discover in England.

Ireland

I have always been drawn to Irish mythology and Celtic music. So when I found out about two years ago that my great-grandfather was a full-blooded Irishman, it didn’t come as too much of a surprise that Ireland has been one of my top bucket list locations.

A. The Cliffs of Moher

Despite my fear of heights, this vista, which spans about eight miles across the Irish coast, is just too amazing to pass up! So, why wouldn’t it be an interesting locale for a wedding?

Hotel Doolin – Located in County Clare on the West Coast of Ireland and famous for its traditional Irish music, this contemporary hotel has spacious, modern rooms.

Let’s explore some other great wedding venues in Ireland.

B. Drenagh Estate – a 19th-century house, complete with a tree-lined driveway and richly wooded grounds.

C. Ballyfin – Set at the foot of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the center of Ireland, Ballyfin is an exclusive luxury five star hotel, situated on 614 private acres of parkland with a 28 acre lake.

D. Dunluce Castle – This medieval castle is on a cliff overlooking the sea in Northern Ireland, and is arguably one of the best and most memorable castles in the country, despite its state of ruins. It isn’t surprising that visitors go for the dramatic views, and yes, some choose to have a wedding ceremony there.

E. Huntington Castle – a 17^th century house situated on more than 160 acres of gardens, woodland and farmland. And you might even spot the occasional peacock or rooster!

F. Baily Lighthouse – On cliffs extending into Dublin Bay from Howth, this is one of Ireland’s most photographed lighthouses on the eastern coastline. The cliff walk/path appears to be stunning and quite a romantic adventure. It’s no wonder some have chosen to set their wedding locales in clear view of the lighthouse!

G. Ashford Castle (explore more wedding photos on the site here) – A medieval castle which was transformed into a five star luxury hotel, situated on 350 acres of parkland, this castle has always appealed to me. I’ve been getting their brochures for years, and I can’t deny the pull I have to it!

H. Adare Manor – Set on 840 acres, this neo-Gothic architectural masterpiece, once the family seat of the Earls of Dunraven, has been transformed into a five star hotel and golf resort. Such stunning views!

I. Castlemartyr Resort –The resort consists of a grand 17th century country manor house that sits adjacent to the ruins of an 800 year old castle. The five star hotel includes a 10 treatment room Spa and a luxurious golf course. With open meadows, manicured lawns and formal gardens, as well as a 24,400 square foot wellness, spa and fitness center, guests truly will want for nothing more.

J. Castle Leslie – One of the finest castle luxury estates in Ireland, set on 1000 private acres of rolling hills, parkland and lakes to explore…why wouldn’t this be an idyllic countryside, just perfect for a dream wedding?

K. Castle Durrow – an 18^th century country house in the Irish midlands – just an hour from Dublin – which was transformed into a luxury castle hotel. Looking over the wedding gallery on the site, the location has such picturesque gardens, and it’s easy to see why couples have chosen this site again and again.

Stunning! Here’s hoping that I make it to Ireland someday! Fingers crossed! 😉

Disover this link with more information on wedding locations in Ireland.

New Zealand

From bustling cities to dramatic mountainscapes to forests to scenic waterways, this country appears to have it all. At least everything you could want for a destination wedding. Here are some options, just to name a few.

A. The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – Set on 6000 acres near Matauri Bay, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean. Situated atop a cliff and overlooking three pristine private beaches, alongside offering the amenities of a serene spa and a golf course, as well as a hotel restaurant, numerous local activities, and spacious suites to stay in, you just can’t go wrong!

B. Huka Lodge – Regarded as one of the top luxury lodges in New Zealand, surrounded by seventeen acres of countryside on the banks of the Waikato River, the Huka Lodge features an outdoor swimming pool, a tennis court, free airport transportation and a hot tub. It has air-conditioned suites with a private terrace and lovely river views. It’s only a 10-minute walk to the famous Huka Falls. Sounds like a great place to visit!

C. Blanket Bay – Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Wakatipu on a 10,000 acre high country farm with quintessential South Island lake and mountain views, Blanket Bay Lodge offers guests a relaxing hot tub and rooms with stunning views. The staff at this luxury lodge in a majestic mountain setting can arrange mountain bike tours, jet boating and Milford Sound tours. What a perfect wedding or honeymoon retreat, right?

D. Annandale Coastal Farm Escape and Luxury Villa – In one of the world’s most spectacular coastal locations, this is a rare 4000-acre sheep and cattle farm which also offers exclusive use of four multi award winning luxury villas.

Here is a list of other options in New Zealand.

Turks and Caicos

With such clear blue beauty, what couldn’t be better than this view during a wedding ceremony? ♥♥♥

Here are some locales for a destination wedding. I won’t go into much detail with each site from now on, as I think I’m starting to sound like a travel agent. LOL. I figure you can decide for yourself where you’d like to base your dream wedding, and if any of the pictures appeal to you.

A. East Bay Resort

B. Blue Haven Resort and Marina

C. Beach House

D. The Regent Palms

USA

Why not go for something more local? I have always dreamed of living by the ocean, so I wouldn’t mind a beach wedding in the U.S. either! 😉

Especially if it’s a little easier to get to, here in my homeland. Hmm…let’s see what’s possible.

A. Florida

These are some venues in this beautiful, sunny locale.

Hollywood Beach – Marriott

Panama City Beach – Legacy By the Sea

Barefoot Hide A Way Grill

Miramar Beach – Sol Mate (vacation rental home which is sometimes used for a wedding venue)

Destin – Emerald Grande

Fort Walton Beach – Holiday Inn Resort

For more information on Florida venues, click here.

B. California

Muir Beach – Pelican Inn

Santa Cruz – Santa Cruz Dream Inn

Monterey – Monterey Tides Hotel

Laguna Beach – Surf & Sand

Santa Monica – Shutters on the Beach

Ventura – Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach

Santa Barbara – Rincon Beach Club

Redondo Beach – Chart House

For more California sites, click here.

C. Maine

Bar Harbor – Harborside Hotel

Bar Harbor Inn

French’s Point

For more places in Maine to have your dream wedding, go here…

D. Hawaii

Koloa – The Beach House

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Lahaina – Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

Montage Kapalua Bay

Kapolei – Paradise Cove

For more places to have a wedding in Hawaii, click here.

E. Georgia

St. Simons Island

The King and Prince Beach and Golf Resort

The Golden Isles

Jekyll Island – Villas by the Sea Resort & Conference Center

Tybee Island – Hotel Tybee

For more wedding venues in Georgia, click here.

F. North Carolina

Manteo – The Outer Banks of North Carolina

Nags Head – Jennette’s Pier

Ocean Isle Beach – Oceanfront Weddings of N.C.

Duck – Sanderling Resort

Wilmington – Southern Beach House

Havelock – Neuse Breeze

Kitty Hawk – Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks

For more locations in North Carolina, explore this link.

G. Massachusetts

South Yarmouth – Red Jacket Beach Resort & Spa

Mashpee – The Club at New Seabury & The Popponesset Inn

Provincetown – The Provincetown Inn

Dennisport – The Sea View

Corsair & Cross Rip Oceanfront Resort

Hyannis – Cape Codder Resort and Spa

North Falmouth – Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Nantucket – Galley Beach

Westcliff

Check out some more locations here for Massachusetts venues. And this is a link to additional sites in the U.S.

France

Oops, I almost forgot! Can’t overlook France. It’s breathtaking!

So…I’ve always wanted to visit Paris for a vacation, but if I was going for a wedding venue? Nah, I’d probably pick something more natural or unique. Perhaps a villa, castle, a vineyard, or even some lavender fields.

Provence – Chateau de Tourreau

Château d’Alphéran

Bastide St Mathieu

Loire Valley – Chateau de Jalesnes

La Chatellerie

Château de Chissay

Here is a link which includes more options in France.

Wow, lots of choices to go over!

Well, I hope I covered everything. Maybe this post sparked your own ideas for a dream wedding, huh?

So after all this, what place have we as a couple chosen for the big day? That will most likely depend on the date of the wedding and our budget for the event. Okay, so maybe I didn’t narrow them down all that much. I like to have some variety! 😉

I just hope this helped you in your own search. I’ll keep you informed of our decision, however…

As always, happy reading, and have a beautiful summer! 🙂

Host Blogger Bio

Multi-genre author of Victorian maritime romance/family saga, Heiresses in Love, and 20 other books. Reached the Top 10 Authors list on AuthorsDB.com for the last 4 years. Featured interview in the January 2018 issue of Womelle Magazine. BLOOD INSTINCTS reached TOP 10 status in the Romance category of the 2018 P&E Readers’ Poll. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART reached the semi-finalist round in the 2018 AuthorsDB Book Cover Contest. Voted TOP BLOGGER for 2018 on the Romance Lives Forever Blog. TOP 20 Authors of 2018 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART was nominated and made it past the first round in the 2018 Author Academy Awards. UPON YOUR LOVE and THE MISSING PIECE placed in the TOP 10 on the 2017 P&E Readers’ Poll. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART was nominated for the 2017 Reader’s Choice Awards. The I Love Romance Blog became a finalist in StartDating DK’s Romance Blog Awards of 2017. ILRB landed on Feedspot’s 2017 TOP 100 Novel Blogs and TOP 100 Romance Blogs. DIRECTIONS OF THE HEART placed in the TOP 10 Books of 2017 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. TOP 20 Authors of 2017 on Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews blog. Mystery Blogger Award for 2017. A to Z Blog Challenge Survivor in 2016. March 2016 Empress of the Universe title – winner of the “Broken Heart” themed contest and the “I Love You” themed contest on Poetry Universe. SECOND CHANCE HEART and A LITTLE MAGICK placed in the TOP 10 on the 2015 P&E Readers’ Poll. Nominated in the TRR Readers’ Choice Awards for Winter 2015. Poetry winner of the 2015 PnPAuthors Contest. The Versatile Blogger Award for 2015. Honorable Mention in the 2014 BTS Red Carpet Book Awards. Finalist and Runner-up in the 2014 MARSocial’s Author of the Year Competition. Honorable mention in the January 2014 Reader’s Choice Award. Liebster Blogger Award for 2013, 2014 and 2016. 2013 and 2014 Amazon Bestseller Ranking for UPON YOUR RETURN. Winner of the Great One Liners Contest on the Directory of Published Authors.

Marie Lavender lives in the Midwest with her family and two cats. She has been writing for a little over twenty-five years. She has more works in progress than she can count on two hands. Since 2010, Marie has published 22 books in the genres of historical romance, contemporary romance, romantic suspense, paranormal romance, dramatic fiction, fantasy, science fiction, mystery/thriller, literary fiction and poetry. She writes adult fiction, as well as occasional stories for children, and has recently started some young adult fiction. She has also contributed to several anthologies. Her current published series are The Heiresses in Love Series, The Eternal Hearts Series, The Magick Series, The Code of Endhivar Series and The Blood at First Sight Series.

Links:

Official Website: http://marielavender.com/

Blogs: https://iloveromanceblog.wordpress.com/
http://marielavender.blogspot.com/

http://marielavenderbooks.blogspot.com/
Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/marie.lavender.58
https://www.facebook.com/MarieAnnLavender
https://twitter.com/marielavender1
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marie-lavender/27/187/10a

https://www.instagram.com/marielavender1/

Amazon author page: https://amzn.to/2yFx62c
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6938764.Marie_Lavender
http://authorsdb.com/authors-directory/1578-marie-lavender

http://marielavender1.allauthor.com/

Creative Universal Reading List Link: https://books2read.com/rl/marielavendersbooks

http://www.pw.org/content/marie_lavender
http://manicreaders.com/marielavender/

Publisher: http://www.solsticeempire.com/products.aspx?categoryid=262

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJu8HjRVYCFOqcIoX6ZxdqQ/videos

Sign up for Marie’s Newsletter: http://bit.ly/1g3wO13

Follow her on BookBub for new release updates: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/marie-lavender

Have a lovely rest of your week, readers! 🙂

Authors, Blogging, Book News, Books, Contemporary, Dating Tips, Event, Guest Writer, Hope, Love, Message, Readers, reflections, Relationships, Romance, romantic ideas, Singles, Traditions, Writers, Writing

Top 10 Dating Tips for the Modern Woman: a guest post by author Kai Nicole

July 30, 2019July 27, 2019 Marie Lavender

Top 10 Dating Tips for the Modern Woman

by Kai Nicole

Let’s face it, dating in this digital era is getting a bit crazy. We are in a cultural shift where women have a lot more money and freedom than they used to have, all while traditionalism is still desired by many. So, how are modern women to navigate the madness? Here are 10 tips to help the single women out there:

Be Whole

Do not date with the expectation that there is someone else outside of you who will complete you. You are a complete person, and you should date like one. If you don’t feel fully complete then dating should not be your priority. You should take the time to focus on yourself becoming whole and happy.

Happy women always have a better dating life.

Be Open

One of the biggest reasons women are disappointed with their dating experiences is because they have so many expectations that cannot be met. In order to have better dating experiences, you have to be open. That means no expectations! Let the dates flow and enjoy the moment!

Stop “Husband Shopping”

“If you are one of these women who is searching for a husband, you are not dating, you are shopping. You are looking for a guy who fits some requirements you have created in your mind – a fantasy. Stop doing that. If you want to date, you need to understand the reality. Dating is taking time to get to know someone. That’s it. You give your time and in turn a man gives his time to you so that you both get to know each other.” – Date Like A Woman

Only accept dates from men who are genuinely interested in you

How can you tell that a man is genuinely interested? He will risk rejection. Ladies, if a man risks nothing, especially public rejection, he really isn’t that interested in you, period. You are just some woman to pass the time with. When a man is REALLY interested in you, he is going to make sure you know it even at the risk of being embarrassed. Because in his mind you are worth it. The men who risk something to ask you out, those are the men you should date. They are genuinely interested.

Date In Your Circle

When it comes to dating, there are many types of circles/leagues. However, your dating experiences are best when you date within your leagues/circles. I talk about dating circles more in-depth in my book. If you want to know what circles you are in, you should take a look at your own life. Chances are you spend time with those who are most similar to you. The men who are most similar to the folks you hang around are the men who are in your circles.

Why are dating experiences with men in your circle better? Because you have more in common and will have more to share and talk about.

Avoid online dating and dating men who only send you DMs

As I like to say, “shoot your shot in public so I know it’s real.” Men who only date online or shoot their shot in DMs lack either true interest in the woman or their ability to talk to women is lacking in some way. When a man is not genuinely interested in a woman, the dating experience is always subpar.

While online dating and DMs have made it easier for men to access women, especially men who are scared to speak to women in person, the increased access to women means there is a decreased chance of genuine interest. Of course, many people love to fight me on this point, stating that they either met their spouses online or know someone who has met a spouse online. Whenever this happens, I simply point out that the success rate for online dating is 5%. That means 95% (that’s ninety-five percent) of the time online dating does not work. On top of that, the online dating business is worth $2 billion dollars. Online dating sites make more money if they keep you single. So, if you are okay with that, then please, by all means, keep dating online.

Be more than a pretty package

Focus less on how you look and more on who you are as a person when you date. “You must be more than just a pretty face. If you aren’t interesting, men are not going to be interested in you. You must be more than just a ‘wrapping.’ You have to give your date more than just an appearance. You have to give your date something to get to know.”’ – Date Like A Woman

Date more than one man at a time

If you are not in a relationship, you’re single. Act like it. DATE!

Learn to let go

If a date doesn’t go the way you want it to, don’t sweat it. Letting go and moving on when things aren’t “right” is one of the key components to a great dating life.

Created by katemangostar – http://www.freepik.com

Remember, this is dating, not a relationship! If one guy isn’t for you, date a different one!

Buy Date Like A Woman!

Get Date Like A Woman, the BEST dating guide for women, if you really want a better dating life!

Want to read more dating blogs? Check out DateLikeAWoman.com’s Blog. Be sure to also check out Kai’s personal blog at FlyMommy.net! And, don’t forget to buy the best dating book for women, Date Like A Woman!

Too right! Thank you, Kai, for giving us your impression of how to navigate dating in this modern age.

Well, readers, shall we take a look at the book on which her philosophy is based? Sounds like a plan! 😀

Great cover! 🙂

Here’s the blurb for Date Like a Woman:

Date Like A Woman (DLAW) is for the 21st century woman who is ready for a new narrative about dating, romance, sex and life! DLAW helps women move from fear to freedom. It offers practical dating advice, teaching women to navigate through the often challenging and daunting dating world, while countering the sexist, stereotypical and, frankly, stupid “instructions” spewed at women by self-professed male “dating experts.”

DLAW puts the FUN back into dating while also providing no-nonsense guidance that empowers and encourages women who have grown weary, been disappointed, and are still holding on to outmoded and unrealistic expectations about their dating choices. DLAW reminds women of their worth, helping them understand that they do not need to fit some antiquated model of being “accepted” or “chosen” by men.

For women who are so ready to sever the cord – quickly, forcefully and permanently – that has kept them bound by dangerous dogma and silly, sexist “thought leaders,” DLAW offers fresh, funny advice for discovering themselves, deciding what they really want, and enjoying dating!

Purchase Links:

Universal Amazon link: https://bookgoodies.com/a/0692864350

Add it to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36164605-date-like-a-woman

♥♥♥ Ooh…love it! This looks like such a helpful read!

Thanks for stopping by with your fascinating guest post, Kai! Awesome to have you here! ♥

Author Bio

Published author, blogger and attorney Kai Nicole has emerged as an exciting and unique voice on dating and relationships. A graduate of Harvard University and Howard University School of Law, Kai’s professional experiences encompass diverse fields including legal, tech, and entertainment. She is a mother, world traveler, foodie, and lifestyle enthusiast.

Website: www.datelikeawoman.com

Blogs: http://www.datelikeawoman.com/blog/

http://www.flymommy.net/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DateLikeAWoman

Amazon Author Page: https://amzn.to/2GvUlOr

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17136325.Kai_Nicole

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/datelikeawoman/

Publisher: www.flaimahmy.co

Thanks again, Kai! We hope to see you back on ILRB sometime.

Happy reading, everyone!🙂

November 21st – Kathy Coleman’s blog tour feature

November 26th – Gayle M. Irwin’s new release feature/Q&A spotlight

December – January – HOLIDAY HIATUS

2020

January 8th – Rebecca Siggers’ guest post

January 20th – 27th – MEGA POST-CHRISTMAS WINTER RETREAT GIVEAWAY (on Writing in the Modern Age)

January 28th – Lorrain Allen’s author interview

January 30th – Janice Tremayne’s character interview

February 4th – Rebecca Siggers’ guest post

February 6th – Kate Hill

February 11th – Rebecca Siggers’ guest post

February 13th – Angela Worley’s guest post

February 18th – Melanie A. Smith’s blog tour feature

February 20th – Bonnie McCune’s guest post

February 25th – Kaya Quinsey’s author interview

February 27th – Nina Brooks’ book feature

March 3rd – Melanie Brodie’s blog tour feature

March 5th – Erica Taylor

March 6th – end of the month –> hiatus for Marie’s rom com book release (March 10th)

April 7th – open guest spot

April 9th – open guest spot

April 1th – open guest spot

April 16th – open guest spot

ILRB Published Reviews (Past to Present)

2014

Feb 26th: Divine Evil by Nora Roberts

Feb 27th: Surrender to a Wicked Spy by Celeste Bradley

June 26th: The King by J.R. Ward

July 18th: Second Chances – Sammy’s Story by Annie Edmonds

2015

July 18th: The Discreet Gentleman Series by Kris Tualla

2016

April 2nd: Blood Brothers by Nora Roberts

April 4th: Courting the Countess by Barbara Pierce

April 5th: Devil’s Embrace/Devil’s Daughter by Catherine Coulter

April 6th: Elsewhere by Linda Lee Williams

April 7th: Face the Fire by Nora Roberts

April 9th: Heart of Gold by J.R. Ward

April 12th: Jewels of the Sun by Nora Roberts

April 13th: The Key Trilogy by Nora Roberts

April 14th: Lover Unleashed by J.R. Ward

April 15th: The Scale by Mika Jolie

April 16th: No Longer a Stranger by Joan Johnston

April 18th: One Illicit Night by Sophia James

April 23rd: Unhallowed Ground by Heather Graham

April 25th: To Tempt A Scotsman by Victoria Dahl

April 27th: Weather the Storm by Jean Ferris

2019

Kevin’s Romance Reviews

Jan 16th: Beneath This Mask by Meghan March

Jan 23rd: Aloha, Baby! by Ann Omasta

Jan 30th: Legends of Lust by Autumn Bardot

Feb 6th: Valentine in Venice by Kaya Quinsey

Feb 13th: Boardroom, Bedroom by Gemma Snow

Feb 22nd: Dear Heart by Linda Lingle

Feb 27th: Take My Heart by J.J. Sorel

March 10th: The Key of F by Jennifer Haskin

March 14th: Undercover Siren by Ellen Mint

March 20th: Jake’s Redemption by Jamie Schulz

April 4th: The Homecoming by Tammy Tate

April 18th – KEVIN’S BOOK REVIEW HIATUS – See Review Policy for More Details…

Marie’s Romance Reviews

March 21st: Break My Chains by Nicolina Martin

May 18th: The Impaler’s Wife by Autumn Bardot

June 23rd: Unglorious War by Maxine Flam

Marie’s Current Reading List (the ones for ILRB are marked with an asterisk)

Blood Games by Chloe Neill

*Kurt Seyt & Shura by Nermin Bezmen (progress: 23%)

Immortal by J.R. Ward

*The Eyre Liszt by Trisha Messmer

*Shore Love by Gary Robert Muschla

The Savior by J.R. Ward

*Abigail’s Window by Susan Lynn Solomon

*The Price to Be Paid by Alice J Miller

Close to You by Janet Dailey

*The End of Hatred by Rebecca Hefner

Fast Courting by Barbara Delinsky

*Reva’s River by Virginia Babcock

Fear the Dark by Kay Hooper

*The Reluctant Courtship of Jack Allan by Dayle King Searle

The Manning Sisters by Debbie Macomber

*Jillian’s Song by Susan A. Buchanan

*Love-Lines by Sheri Langer

*The Hitman’s Mistake by Sally Brandle

Somebody to Love by Kristan Higgins

*The Reluctant Husband by Eliot Grayson

*A Debutante in Disguise by Eleanor Webster

*Serenity: A Dark Romance by Skye Bailey

*Bad Babygirl: The Con Artist by Zoe Blake

*One Night in Provence by Barbara Wallace

*The Unwelcome Stranger by Valerie Cullers

*Marriage Training by Golden Angel

*Mindgames by Jasmine Gold

*Captivated by Clio by Tanisha D. Jones

*Shakespeare Burning by Charisse Moritz

*Bound in Flame by Katherine Kayne

*Harden Fields Series boxed set by Christal Mosley

*The Me Too Girl by Lance and James Morcan

*The Girl in the Scarlet Chair by Janice Tremayne

(more coming soon)

7 Most Ideal Ways to Plan Your Honeymoon

Start planning early

Communicate with people

Confirm you have your travel documents ready

Watch out for special bonuses

Opt for privacy and not popularity

Come up with an itinerary

Pack accordingly

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Planning A Wedding

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