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Hearts and Kisses: 12 Contemporary Valentine Novels and Novellas Boxed Set

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***USA Today Bestseller***

Hearts & Kisses -

Just in time for Valentine's Day, twelve New York Times, USA Today, National bestselling and award-winning authors deliver a dozen contemporary romance novels and novellas packed with drama, suspense, love and laughter. From the Highlands of Scotland to the Hollywood hills, twelve strong heroines meet twelve hot heroes in tales that span the globe. Whether you crave big-city adventure or small-town romance, second chance stories, or sexy single dads...this outstanding collection holds something special for you. Come be our Valentine, and snuggle up with these sweet and steamy romances, perfect for reading on a chilly winter's eve. Happy ever afters guaranteed.

Heart Tamer (Heartthrob Series Novella) by Sophia Knightly, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. Fashion designer Kate Hayes must somehow convince her estranged ex-husband, Alec MacLeod, to agree to an unusual request. In this fiery second chance at love, whose heart will be tamed?

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. Carrie St. John is done with wedding disasters. Third time's the charm? A jilted bride and a ditched bachelor cut a "fake fiancé" deal.

The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour, USA Today and National bestselling author. Confirmed bachelor, Miguel, forces his dead brother's gorgeous, headstrong surrogate to marry him so he can take her and her twins to Chile to cheer his ailing mamita.

Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis, USA Today and National bestselling, award-winning author. The Gordon's marriage has been an emotional rollercoaster, but Jack has the solution-lock them inside a safe room for a cool-down, which turns out to be hot.

Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano, USA Today bestselling author. Sexy single dad Derek learned the hard way to never trust a beautiful woman. So although he is indebted to Lainey for thwarting a kidnapping attempt on his daughter, he isn't about to offer her his heart on a silver platter!

Valentine Babies by Mona Risk, USA Today and National bestselling author. Getting involved with fearless reporter, Roxanne, involves more complications than Dr. Greg has ever faced in the OR.

The Army Doctor's Valentine's Baby by Helen Scott Taylor, USA Today and National bestselling author. An abandoned baby brings two lonely army doctors together.

The Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Thatcher, USA Today and National bestselling author. Kenzie's vacation in St. Thomas heats up when her high school sweetheart and rock star heartthrob Chaz appears. If only he wasn't there for his wedding.
 
Love Struck by Patrice Wilton, USA Today bestselling author. With the "love bug myth" and discovery of gold, Serendipity Falls is no longer safe. Can Samantha and Kyle find a way to end this madness, or will they too be swept away by love?

Ambrosia by the Sea by Traci Hall, National bestselling and award-winning author. After a bitter betrayal by her late husband, self-taught chef Celia Langdon moves to the sea, where dive shop owner Dax Smith dares her to heal from the heart.

Reading Between the Lines by Anna J Stewart, National bestselling author. When Ethan Sutherland was in high school, he'd go to any lengths to hide his secret, including betraying the one girl who tried to help him. Now he's back in town and hoping Cassidy Wells finds it in her heart to forgive him.

Kindle Edition

First published February 10, 2015

29 people are currently reading
269 people want to read

About the author

Sophia Knightly

29 books494 followers
New York Times & USA Today bestselling author, Sophia Knightly cooks up hot romance and delicious humor in her sexy contemporary romances that pair hot, alpha heroes with strong, smart women and throw them on a challenging emotional journey. Traditionally published by St. Martin's Press, Kensington, and Samhain Publishing, her popular Tropical Heat Series and Heartthrob Series have consistently been on multiple best selling lists.

Sophia loves writing books that end with a sigh and a smile. In addition to traveling, foodie adventures, and the arts in all forms, one of her favorite pastimes is simply watching people--especially those in love!

She is also a beauty blogger on YouTube at www.youtube/sophiaknightly

Write to her at: sophiaknightly@gmail.com
Follow her on Twitter @SophiaKnightly
"Like" her Facebook author page at: www.facebook.com/sophiaknightly
Visit her website at: http://www.sophiaknightly.net
Sign up for her New Release & Giveaways Newsletter at:
http://sophiaknightly.net/newsletter-...


Book Trailers:

WILD FOR YOU Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/XtVlFBdaHvs
SOLD ON YOU Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/X20NbJElrvM
GRILL ME, BABY Book Trailer: http://youtu.be/6Y07iUPt3rg

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Teresa.
122 reviews19 followers
February 11, 2015
In Heart Tamer by Sophia Knightly, Kate wants her ex husband Alec to help her obtain her dream but, will he?

A great, sweet read!

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird is a cute read about Carrie and Mike. Both dumped on the same night they create a plan. Mike will be here pretend fiancé in front of her family. Carrie will be his pretend fiancée at his reunion. What could go wrong? Or even better what could go right?

The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour is story with twists and turns. Sheri acted as a surrogate for her best friend and her husband. Unfortunately, a few days after she gives birth the couple are both killed in an accident. Miguel is mourning his brother and sister-in-laws death when he realizes the babies Sheri gave birth to need to go back to his native home in Chili. Can two strangers thrown together by tragedy find a way to exist together and raise twins?

Breaking the Rules by Melanie Curtis is the story of Viv and Jack who are heading toward divorce but one elaborate plan puts them together for the night. When they have no where to go can two people make amends and find their way back to each other?

Take Me Away by Donna Fasano is the story of Lainey and Derek would meet because of Lainey saving Derek's daughter from being kidnapped. As their relationship develops they face numerous obstacles. Lainey only wants to help but it seems each attempt to help ends in disaster. Can they find a way to work out all the obstacles to find their happy ending?
Profile Image for Gale.
1,974 reviews22 followers
February 4, 2015
When I started Hearts & Kisses, I expected an anthology of 12 novellas…instead, I had 12 stories, people! It is a great collection and has some feel-good stories. I enjoyed some more than others but all in all, worth the money and a great buy. Three books that stood out for me were Reading Between the Lines by Anna J. Stewart: Poignant and sad and uplifting and funny. It’s about discovery from within and forgiveness for yourself and others. It is about real problems that you see all the time. Great story! The Surrogate’s Secret by Mimi Barbour: twisty/turny story of what really could happen to you in your everyday life and how it affects people around you. So touching. The Army Doctor’s Valentine Baby by Helen Scott Taylor: Awwwwwwwwwwww! Two very sweet people who “find” each other when an abandoned baby is left outside their base of operation. (I’ve read other books in this series that are great as well.) This anthology delivers a ton of reading for a small price and I highly recommend. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I had already pre-ordered so was very happy that it was such a wonderful read.
Profile Image for Carol.
1,643 reviews67 followers
February 10, 2015
Get ready for Valentine’s Day with this box set of 12
Contemporary Novels & Novella’s. It contains 12
different novels by 12 different authors. The set provides
great characters, interesting situations, surprises and good
reading. I have put my reviews on each authors book site on
Amazon &Goodreads as I read.
The authors & books are as follows:

Heart Tamer(Heartthrob Series Novella)by Sophia Knightly
The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird
The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour
Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis
Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano
Valentine Babies by Mona Risk
The Army Doctor's Valentine's Baby by Helen Scott Taylor
The Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Thatcher
Love Struck by Patrice Wilton
Ambrosia by the Sea by Traci Hall
Reading Between the Lines by Anna J Stewart
No Perfect Destiny by Jackie Weger

Enjoy your read.
Thank you to the author for the eBook. My opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Njkinny (Njkinny's Blog).
758 reviews187 followers
February 11, 2015
http://www.njkinnysblog.com/2015/02/r...

If someone tells you that you are getting 12 novels by 12 bestselling and some of your favourite authors for just 99c or Rs. 60, what will you say?
Like me, you will also think that it is a prank and wont quite believe it.
I also didn't, at first, but then when I saw the amazing sale by myself, I was pleasantly surprised.

Just in time for the Valentine's Day, Hearts & Kisses packs twelve lovely romances in one boxset and I am so happy that I had the chance to read these super interesting stories before the release date of this boxset!

While I already know and have loved stories written by three of these 12 contributing authors, Jackie Weger, Mimi Barbour and Donna Fasano, others were a welcome new introduction to me. I am so happy to have read and loved stories by Sophia Knightly, Ginny Baird, Mel Curtis, Mona Risk, Helen Scott Taylor, Ari Thaycher, Patrice Wilton, Traci Hall and Anna J. Stewart.

The stories are varied in terms of settings, characters and storylines which adds more appeal to this already awesome and must-have boxset. The romances are realistic, the characters approachable and very real and the narration style very simple and engrossing.

I had a great time relaxing with these books, a cup of tea and my dog by my side. Sizzling, engaging, heartwarming and feel-good novels, this boxset is a great way to get acquainted with some great authors and also re-visit some of our already loved ones.

Super shiny 5 stars to Hearts & Kisses and strongly recommended to all book lovers. Grab these must-read romances all in one boxset at a very low rate of just 99c/Rs. 60 which is a great Valentine gift too as well as a must-have on your book shelf. I am excited to have new additions to my list of loved authors and will be checking out the other books by these 12 bestselling writers.

I received an ARC copy of the boxset from the authors and the tour organizers and I am very thankful to them. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.
Profile Image for Isha Coleman.
9,063 reviews173 followers
February 9, 2015
I received an ARC of Hearts and Kisses for an honest review. This is a box set of books about love written by a compilation of authors. Like most box sets of books --there are some stories that you love and others you do not. Some of the books this set contained I already owned and others I discovered through the set I was gifted. All of the stories in this set are entertaining and worth a look.
Profile Image for Pam Spalding-paterakis.
48 reviews6 followers
February 7, 2015
Got to read prior to going on sale for an honest review. This had some re-reads for me and loved reading them again. between all of them I managed to laugh, cry, get so angry I wanted to smack the characters! All are filled with love and HEA's. Perfect Valentine Day gift for those special females in your life.
Profile Image for Anna.
429 reviews6 followers
February 10, 2015

Book 1: Heart Tamer by Sophia Knightly

Kate has returned to Scotland for her ex- sister in laws wedding. As the dress designer and best friend of the bride she was happy to be there. But nervous to see Alec, her ex who she still loves.
Alec wonders why Kate showed up after all these years. He still loves her and vows to never lose her again, but will she stay this time? When she tells him she wants to have his baby, he knows he will do whatever it takes to keep her. But will she be able to trust her heart to him again?

Book 2: The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird

Carrie is supposed to be getting married tomorrow. But her fiance just dumped her on the eve of their wedding for someone else. Mike is supposed to be engaged now. But she just laughed in his face. While trying to find the ring she threw in the pool, he finds another, and spots the woman who threw it. Wonder what she did to the poor guy. But as they find out more about each other, they hatch a plan for him to play her fiance for her family. But he wants it for real. Will this time be for real?

Book 3: The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour

Sheri has two beautiful twins to call her own. As surrogate to her best friend and her husband, she was supposed to have only been auntie until tragedy struck and they were killed right before the babies were born. When the babies rightful uncle Miguel comes to see them, he informs her he plans to get custody and take them back to his home country and raise them with his mother. But problems arise and they have to get married to each other. Secrets abound on the parentage of the babies and love blooms between Sheri and Miguel, can she trust that its not only for the babies?

Book 4: Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis

Jack is an NBA basketball team owner who has just won the title. But he has done some things behind his wife's back that have shattered her trust in him. With their marriage ending, Jack has one last chance to win Vivian back. Locking them in a safe room overnight, he tries to convince her they are meant to be. Vivian has only ever wanted one thing. For Jack to love her. But she doesn't think he does.Throughout the night she finds out things about Jack that she never knew only proving to her he never loved or trusted her. Jack loves her but doesn't know how to prove it to her. Can Jack prove to Vivian his love and win her trust? Can Vivian forgive Jack and reunite with the man she loves?

Book 5: Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano

Lainey saves a little girl from being kidnapped at the beach. And from there her life is changed completely. As a result of that day, she is interred into a very rich man's will. The son, not trusting her motives questions her at every turn. But as they work closely together, they are drawn together. When something happens that endangers his daughter, will he be able to forgive Lainey and build a life with her?

Book 6: Valentine Babies by Mona Risk

Roxanne has just received the worst news of her life. Pregnant and noone knows. And the father of her baby has just been killed. But she has to put on a good face for her sister's wedding. Greg is mesmorized by Roxanne. When she passes out at the wedding, he takes her to his room and examines her since he's a Dr. When she finally tells him the truth, he plans to take care of her for the next few days. But the more they are together, the more they fall for each other. Can he really love another man's baby?

Book 7: The Army Doctor's Valentine's Baby by Helen Scott Taylor

Naomi Gray dreams of traveling the world. That is why she joined to army. But being posted in cold and dreary Scotland, she wants a different post. Being in the medical field, she can go where she is needed. But when a newborn is left at the post on Christmas Day, she has to take care of her. When her Commanding officer is called into help, the sparks fly between them. Each secretly wanting the other for a while but never acting on it. When they take the baby to his home though, they really become close as a family with her. When she is placed in foster care and Naomi leaves for another post, can their love lastand can they get thier girl back?

Book 8: The Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Hatcher

Kenzi and her best friends are on vacation just relaxing in paradise on the beach. When her friend finds out Chaz Marino is on the island, and for his wedding, she says nothing. Never revealing her relationship before he became famous, why should she now. Until he sees her and speaks to her. Chaz never really forgot about Kenzi. They just went seperate ways but never stopped loving each other. When his fiance leaves him high and dry, he has another chance with the on who got away. Can they finally make it work between them?

Book 9: Love Struck by Patrice Wilton

As the home to cupid, Serendipity has become the place to fall in love. But the finding of gold has also brought unsavory men to town. And the women are ferocious anymore. Resorting to almost anything to get their man. When Kyle used to love his town, but he cant stand to see what's happened to it. As a single man he is prime beef this time of year. Samantha has come to town to start her business with her brothers. Definitely not looking for another man. Her ex was a royal pain! Now all she wants is security for her and her son. What she hadn't counted on was Kyle and her attraction to him. Will they become the next two bitten by the love bug and living happily ever after?

Book 10: Ambrosia by the Sea by Traci Hall

Celia has been betrayed by her husband in the worst way. Not only did he cheat on her but he died too while with his lover. So selling everything she has and moving to Florida, she plans to open a cafe. To discover who she really is and maybe finally be happy. Dax is drawn to Celia from the first meeting and offers any help he can give. Running his dive shop, he can leave and work when he has too. But as unforseen problems arise with both of them, can she take a chance on Dax and he on her?

Book 11: Reading Between the Lines by Anna J. Stewart

Cass was always the introvert in school and remains so as an adult. Always keeping to herself and never letting anyone help. Who can she rely on but herself. Even the boy who said he loved her betrayed her. Ethan was a fool in school. And he ruined the best thing that he had going gor him. Now that he's back, he is going to at least explain why he did what he did and hope she can forgive him. But he wants more. He wants her forever. Can Ethan make her see that he still loves her and with fight for her?

Profile Image for Jill Johns.
335 reviews
March 20, 2015
I was lucky enough to be chosen as an advanced reader of this collection and as such was able to receive it for free. However, it is well worth the money for this collection of 12 books

I started reading this collection around January 29th but work full time and spend time with family, so I have completed 7 of the 12 books, and am about half way with the 8th book. A couple of the novels I've read either based upon a separate purchase or in a different series, but even those are worth the 2nd or 3rd time read.

Heart Tamer by Sophia Knightly - The setting starts out in Scotland with a wedding and continues in NY then back to Scotland for a wedding. The descriptions of the setting and the areas were very graphic, bringing the settings to life. The story line of loving someone and lost and courage to go after your hearts’ desire will have you cheering / crying / yelling at the hero and Heroine throughout the story. But love is triumphant.

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird – This was a humorous story with both the bride and groom being left multiple times before the wedding while at a resort. They cook up a scheme to save face at each of their pending activities and of course fall in love. The family and friends all see it first as love can be blind but wow what a fun book to read. I’d love to find a love like this, (not with the heartbreak of being dumped but a second chance at soulmate kind of love)

The Surrogate’s Secret by Mimi Barbour – This is the third time I’ve come across this book. I really enjoyed reading it every time. Children are a big part of love and how you might love the adults around them. There is plenty of action in this book and a few surprises.

Breaking the rules by Mel Curtis – The Setting is Hollywood with all the glitz / glamor and falseness. How do people survive when one focuses on business too much, the other is looking for the attention needed from the love of her life after growing up deprived of love due to business and add in male pride. A must read to see how true love can overcome and forgive and ultimately win in this “beautiful” setting.

Take Me I’m yours by Donna Fasano – Can a dad who is burned learn to trust again? Can a single mom who lost her husband to cancer gain and keep the trust of an embittered man who doesn’t trust with her simple life lesson she has learned early in life? A great read of how a previous generation who learned life lessons too late tries to right their wrong with the next of the family generations when the patriarch spends a day with the single mom and the actions that follow. Another good read, if you really get into the stories you might need a Kleenex or two, and the single dad better be glad he’s fictional otherwise a few “Gibb” smacks would be coming his way.

Valentine Babies by Mona Risk – Sorry about how actions can change lives in a moment, how love and forgiveness can create a lifetime of hope for men, women, babies, and grandparents. How something created in a time of war can still find a way to bridge peace between “enemies” even if the action wouldn’t normally create that reaction. How do you forgive yourself or accept forgiveness from others for rash acts, let love take care of it, see how in this story.

The Army Doctor’s Valentine’s Baby by Helen Scott Taylor – This is my second reading of this novel. I thoroughly enjoyed the 2nd read and picked up on parts I didn’t see the first time. This is a story about how love can change your life and your dreams. The abandoned baby changes the heart of the abandoned Army doctor whose goal in life and reason for entering the army is to travel the world. Meanwhile the baby also brings to light that love is still right when found even if you are the commanding officer and local Scottish highlander community leader. How can a castle feel like a home when the family in what should / could have been happy homes was desperately unhappy?

The Rock Star’s wedding by Ari Thatcher – Here is another novella I didn’t want to put down. In this novel, we find two people who separated due to careers one to become an amazing Rock star with all of the love of lime line that comes with it and one a computer wizard an introvert that doesn’t mind having fun but loves the background. They end up at the same vacation place with the rock star scheduled to be married to a cheating starlet not to our Heroine. Read on to see if two friends can overcome their individual differences to become more than they were before. Is there a wedding of soul mates coming? Read and see what happens when true love is present along with some great friends.

There are 4 more books to go, I’ll update later.
170 reviews3 followers
February 17, 2015
I was given an advanced copy of this boxed set of 12 novels and novellas to review and give my honest opinion. I have read 10 of the 12 stories, but have reviewed some of my favorites. I enjoyed all the characters I met in each story—the heroes, the heroines and secondary characters. I also thoroughly enjoyed the plot in each story. These stories take place in different parts of the United States, as well as other countries. My only negative thoughts concern bad language and that the main characters in most of the stories sleep together prior to marriage.

The Surrogate’s Secret by Mimi Barbour

I loved this story! Sheri O’Connor was the surrogate mother for her best friend Mary-Anne and her husband Felipe. A few days after the twins (Rafael & Carrie-Ann) were born, Mary-Anne and Felipe are killed in a car accident. Sheri struggles to support herself and the babies until Felipe’s brother, Miguel, shows up and wants to take the twins back to Chile to be with his mother, who is in poor health. Sheri refuses, but is forced to accept Miguel’s offer of marriage for the medical treatment Rafael needs. When Rafael is well enough, they travel to Miguel’s home. Sheri and Miguel find love and a happily-ever-after, but have to work through several misunderstandings before they can admit their feelings to each other.

No Perfect Destiny by Jackie Weger

This story takes place on Galveston Island, Texas. Leah Spencer is a hard-working mom with 7-year-old Nelson and 5-year-old Sally to support. She has a not-so-terrific job for a mean, stingy boss (Mr. Peabody), but at least it’s a job. That is, until she is accused of stealing from the company and refuses to take a lie detector test. This is when she meets Leo Garvey, the police detective investigating the theft. What makes this situation so bad is that Leah was accused of theft before, and even though she was innocent, a lie detector test said she was guilty. I enjoyed Mrs. Peabody, amazed how such a nice person could be married to such a mean person as her husband. The money and the thief are found, but I was completed surprised as to who it was. The story was great and I enjoyed it completely except for some pre-marital sex.

Take Me, I’m Yours by Donna Fasano

Great story for several reasons! Lainey Adams stops 5-year-old Abbie from being kidnapped. Abbie’s grandfather (wealthy and owner of a large company) is so grateful he convinces her to take a check for $25,000 as a reward. However, when Abbie’s dad (Derek Mitchell) finds out, he’s furious and convinces Lainey to return the check. They meet again later and become reluctant partners in Derek’s company. Derek has charge of running the company and Lainey is in charge of the day care center she starts and runs for the company’s employees. Love blossoms, but there are surprises for both of them. As expected, these surprises put a wedge between Derek and Lainey for awhile. I would recommend this story, which does not include pre-marital sex.

Valentine Babies by Mona Risk

A wonderful story with our hero and heroine, Roxanne Ramsay, a reporter, and Greg Hayes, an OB/GYN doctor. They meet when they are part of Roxanne’s sister’s wedding. They are attracted to each other almost from the first moment their eyes meet, but there is a complication. Then Roxanne’s job is a problem because she has to return to Iraq to do interviews and Greg has a phobia about flying. He can’t even think about flying without having an anxiety attack. However, when Roxanne needs medical help only Greg can provide, strings are pulled and Greg overcomes his phobia to get to her. I’m sure you will love this story as much as I did. From the descriptions, you can picture the conditions Roxanne and her friends face in Iraq.

The Army Doctor’s Valentine’s Baby by Helen Scott Taylor

Capt. Naomi Gray is stationed in Scotland, but wants a transfer to a more interesting part of the world. As they say, be careful what you wish for. It’s Christmas and almost everyone is gone until after New Year’s. Naomi takes charge of an abandoned newborn baby girl found by the trash cans. She accepts the offer of her boss, Col. Duncan Mackenzie, to take the baby (they name Holly) to his home (a castle) until they can get Social Services involved. They both come to love Holly and each other, but Naomi gets her transfer—to Africa—and Holly is put into a foster home. Read how their separation is resolved to everyone’s satisfaction and a very happy ending.

If you don’t like a lot of bad language, I would not recommend Ambrosia by the Sea or The Rock Star’s Wedding.
413 reviews6 followers
February 10, 2015
Note: I received a free copy for an honest review.

This is a fantastic collection of stories from an amazing group of authors. These are leading authors on their own, so to be able to read them in a collection like this is worth the price alone! Unfortunately, I ran out of time to finish all of the stories before I was expected to post this review, but I have every intention of continuing to read the remainder. I will try to update my review accordingly.

Heart Tamer (Heartthrob Series Novella) by Sophia Knightly
This is a sweet second chance novella.
Kate is a NY fashion designer who married and divorced Alec about 8 years prior. The book opens when she's attending Alec's sister's wedding in Scotland. Alec is a Scottish lawyer / crime investigator.

Without giving anything away, the book delves into the reasons of their separation. Once they reconnect at the wedding, neither can deny their passion and love for the other. It's simply a matter of if they can overcome what divided them in the past.

I found this to be a touching, emotional tale that felt realistic. My main complaint is that I wish the ending was more fleshed out. It felt a bit rushed.

The romance is pg-13
language is pg

My rating: 4.5 stars

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird
This story opens with Carrie St. John having just been dumped by her fiancee and Mike Davis having just been rejected by his girlfriend. They meet when Mike fishes Carries ring out of the swimming pool after she had just thrown it in. He was in the pool looking for the ring he had just offered to his girlfriend.

OK, for starters, this is a typical boy meets girl, quick attraction, HEA story. But, that's what I like to read! The twist is that they each second guess their emotions since they are both coming out of a failed relationship. They question if they are even capable of having a successful relationship. Luckily, Carrie has her grandmother and Mike has his father to help them along the way.

This is not a complicated story with suspense or angst and frankly, I liked it that way. Sometimes, I want to read about two people simply figuring it out - that they really do love each other!

The romance is pg-13
Language is pg-13 - some curse words used

my rating - 5

Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis
Reading this story took me by surprise. It's a much grittier storyline and carries a lot of pain and bitterness within it. It's about a couple who, in their heart of hearts, are in love with each other. But, a breakdown in communication and other factors has divided them to the brink of divorce. Therefore, in a last ditch effort to save his marriage, the husband makes a dramatic decision to lock the two of them in his office for 12 hours. The result of those hours will determine the future or failure of their marriage.

The writing was very good, but it was much more graphic and the language too raw for my liking. I have read other material by this author and liked it much better than this offering. However, if you don't mind strong language and sexual situations, you will likely enjoy it much better than I did.

Romance & Language - R rated. There was heavy use of profanity, sexual innuendos, and the romance was rough /not gentle.

my rating - 3 stars.

Take Me, I’m Yours by Donna Fasano
This story takes on some weighty topics of child safety and custody and I think the author covers the topic delicately.

Lainey is a widow with a young son and Derek is a powerful business man with a young, preschool aged daughter. Over the course of the story, Lainey becomes intertwined with Derek, his daughter, his father, and his past that has come to haunt him. Told predominantly from her viewpoint, she lovingly helps Derek confront and heal from his past mistakes. At times, I was fearful of what might happen next, but things wrap up to a very nice HEA.

I appreciated Lainey's honesty and forthright manner. She never shirked her duty and remained true to her conscience.

Romance & Language - PG

My rating - 4 stars
Profile Image for Sheri.
2,116 reviews
February 14, 2015
Hearts and Kisses: 12 Contemporary Valentine Novels and Novellas Boxed Set
by Sophia Knightly

I don't usually read boxed sets, but I was asked to read/review in exchange for an honest review. The books looked interesting so I decided to give it a try. I do recommend Hearts and Kisses: 12 Contemporary Valentine Novels and Novellas Boxed Set to those who love romance stories. I feel romance lovers will enjoy these stories.

Heart Tamer (Heartthrob Series Novella) by Sophia Knightly (5 stars)
Fashion designer Kate must convince her estranged ex-husband (Alec) to agree to an unusual request. Original, fresh a nice read.

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird (4 stars)
A jilted bride and a ditched bachelor make a "fake fiancé" deal. A fun read. I liked the plot and the characters. Quite enjoyable.

The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour (4 stars)
Bachelor, Miguel, forces his dead brother's, surrogate to marry him so he can take her and her twins to Chile. Interesting and original, a good read.

Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis (3 stars)
The Gordon's marriage has been in trouble for some time. Jack has the solution. Lock them inside a safe room. Original, but a bit too much sex for me. The plot was good, it kept me reading to see how it all turns out.

Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano (4 stars)
Single dad Derek learned the hard way to never trust a beautiful woman. He is indebted to Lainey for stopping a kidnapping attempt on his daughter. Will the two become a couple? Original, =compelling, a good read.

Valentine Babies by Mona Risk (3 stars)
Dr. Greg Gets involved with reporter, Roxanne. Their relationship becomes more complex than he expected. Another original story, interesting enough to keep me reading.

The Army Doctor's Valentine's Baby by Helen Scott Taylor (5 Stars)
An abandoned baby brings two lonely army doctors together. Very unique story line. Heart-felt. I enjoyed this read.

The Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Thatcher (3 stars)
Kenzie vacations in St. Thomas, she reunites with her high school sweetheart and rock star Chaz. It gets complicated for Kenzie. The plot is different, I wanted to see how it all unfolds.

Love Struck by Patrice Wilton (4 stars)
Serendipity Falls is no longer safe, with the discovery of gold. Samantha and Kyle try to end this craziness. Will the let love bring them together? Another new, fresh story. I liked Samantha and Kyle. A nice read.

Ambrosia by the Sea by Traci Hall
After a bitter betrayal by her late husband, self-taught chef Celia Langdon moves to the sea, where dive shop owner Dax Smith dares her to heal from the heart. Review to follow: I have this book in my TBR list and will be reading it next.

Reading Between the Lines by Anna J Stewart (5 stars)
When Ethan Sutherland was in high school, he'd do anything to hide his secret. He is back in town and hopes Cassidy will forgive him for betraying him many years ago. Original story line. I like how the story unfolds. An enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Patsy Sauls.
89 reviews
February 16, 2015
A great treat just in time for Valentine’s Day. I was lucky enough to receive this set as an ARC this weekend for an honest review. Where can you go wrong with 12 books for less than a dollar? I love anything Sophia Knightly writes so I had already fallen in love with Heart Tamer. Just this book is worth the set. Several authors in this set I had hear about but hadn’t had a chance to read. So I have enjoyed discovering some new authors. I find theses book sets a great way to discover new authors. I have purchased several and always found a new author to read. (In fact that is how I first discovered Sophia Knightly).
The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird is a fun read about two people dumped by their ex's who discover true love. I loved how the novel started with Mike looking in the water for his ring and discovers Carries ring.
The Surrogate’s Secret by Mimi Barbour defiantly had a twist. I loved how Sheri and Miguel discovered love.
Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis is a continuation of her Hollywood Rules series. After reading about Jack and Viv, I will have to read the other books in the series. The other character where hinted at but I now need to know their stories. Jack and Viv are locking into a safe room to try and reconnect instead of divorce. (I now have to read about Cora the friend to both Jack and Viv).
Take Me I’m Yours by Donna Fasano starts with Lainey saving a young girl from abduction. She is offered a monetary reward by the grandfather of the girl but the father has other ideas. Derek the father of the girl demands the money back. He has his own issues with women. But the grandfather knows best, he makes sure after his death that these two get together so Lainey can help Derek open his heart to love.
Valentine’s Bride by Mona Risk is the second in her Holiday Babies Series. Roxanne is attending her sister’s wedding. No one knows that she is pregnant and has just found out the baby’s father has been killed. She feels guilty because she wasn’t really in love with the father and argued with him before his death. Greg is a doctor who meets her at the wedding and because her support.
The Army Doctor’s Valentine Baby by Helen Scott Taylor is set in Scotland. A baby is left in the cold outside of a hospital. Naomi is one on duty and saves the baby. Her commanding officer offers to help. They discover they have always been attracted to each other and the baby just bonds them together.
I’ve just started the Rocks Star’s Wedding by Ari Thatcher and can’t wait to see the rock star and the computer programmer get together again. I still have four more in the series to read. This would be a great set to have when traveling, because you can’t get enough romance. I highly recommend getting this set you will not be disappointed and you will discover a new author or two.
Profile Image for Jimnlori.
1,013 reviews47 followers
February 11, 2015
This Valentine's Day collection of twelve novels and novellas is great. They are all contemporary romances. So far I've read the first seven stories in the collection.
In Heart Tamer (Heartthrob Series Novella)by Sophia Knightly Kate Hayes and her ex-husband haven't seen each other for years, but when he catches sight of her at his sister's wedding without any knowledge or warning he almost lost it then and there. Kate had a request for her ex, but he along with her heart wasn't going to make it easy.
The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird- Carrie just can't seem to get it right as far as weddings go. Jilted for the second time she doesn't know how to tell her family again so she makes a deal with a ditched bachelor to be her "fake fiance" just until she can work up the nerve.
The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour- Miguel forces his dead brother's surrogate to marry him so that he can take their twins to his home in Chile to help cheer up his mother suffering after the loss of her son and daughter in-law, but he has no idea the secret that Sheri is keeping from him.
In Breaking The Rules by Mel Curtis Jack will do anything to get his wife back. He was at his wits end and no matter what he couldn't figure out how to make their marriage work. He loved her, but no matter what he did, it always seemed to be the wrong thing. This time he wasn't giving her an option. He was going to do it his way. She was going to be trapped with him in his safe room and wouldn't be able to go anywhere. They would have to work it out.
Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano is about a single dad Derek who has learned the hard way not to trust women, but Lainey comes into his life and changes everything. Trusting her with his daughter is one thing, but trusting her with is heart is a totally different matter.
In Valentine Babies by Mona Risk Dr. Greg can't seem to keep his eyes or hands off Roxanne. She is beautiful and career minded. In fact her job as a reporter that takes her to war torn countries scares him to death. He has never had to face those kinds of complications as a doctor before until he gets involved with Roxanne.
In The Army Doctor's Valentine's Baby by Helen Scott Taylor Naomi and Duncan have up until this point ignored their feeling for one another, but finding and taking care of an abandoned baby has changed all of that.

I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the stories in this collection.

I was given an ARC for an honest review. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.
Profile Image for Candy Laine.
Author 7 books8 followers
February 10, 2015
Good value for money. There are some great authors here and the romances are lovely.

Heart Tamer by Sophia Knightly, When Kate asks her estranged ex-husband, Alec MacLeod, to agree to be the father of her baby, she has no idea how things will play out. It has taken her a great deal of courage to make the offer, only to be refused. However when she decides to walk out of his life, Alec has other ideas and they include more than merely siring a child together.

The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird, Carrie St. John is devastated when her fiancé decides to leave her for another woman less than a month before the wedding. What’s worse is that they were supposed to be at a romantic getaway at the time he walked out on her. Mike Davis really wants to marry and settle down, but none of the long line of women he has proposed to thinks that way. When he finds Carrie’s engagement ring at the bottom of the pool, a new story is born.

The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour, When Sherri agrees to become a surrogate to her best friend and husband, she has no idea that she will be giving birth to the twins on her own while burying the couple in the same week. The babies have become the center of her existence, but their uncle, Miguel, wants to take her and her twins to Chile to cheer his ailing mamita. Since she would never agree he uses baby Raphael’s surgery as a bargaining chip to get her to marry him. How will they survive a marriage that may never have taken place? Specially when love comes calling.

Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano, Derek loved his beautiful wife, but she used him. Now he has trust issues and while Lainey saved his daughter, he can’t possibly offer her his love in return! Or can he?

Love Struck by Patrice Wilton, Kyle is fed up of the way his small town has changed. He wants things to go back to normal, but then Samantha would not be in town. In a town known for marriages and HEAs can Kyle find the courage to love Samantha?

No Perfect Destiny by Jackie Weger, The story deals with Leah who has had her previous life snatched away from her thanks to an incorrect accusation leveled against her by her own Mother- in-law and ex husband. Now she faces another charge at her new work place
Profile Image for Jennifer Schultheis.
1,316 reviews6 followers
February 12, 2015
Hearts and Kisses is filled with 12 entertaining reads perfect for Valentine's Day. 12 books in one set for an amazingly low price, is seriously a readers dream. All 12 books are worth the read and each will entertain you in their own way. My two favorites out this collection are from Mel Curtis and Anna J. Stewart.

Breaking the Rules by Mel Curtis is a cute novella that makes you believe in second chances and makes you realize how important trust is. Vivian and Jack are a married, soon to be divorced couple, who have had issues for years. Jack decides they need a cooling down period, so he locks them in a safe room overnight. The characters were fun, and I couldn't wait to see what was going to happen throughout the story. The romance was strong and the story is well written.

Reading Between the Lines from Anna J. Stewart was a pleasant surprise. Since this is a novella, it is a quick read, but don't let that detour you. This book is such a fun and entertaining read, that will leave you wanting to know everything about the people in Lantano Valley. I thoroughly enjoyed the story line and was excited to be introduced to this author's intriguing characters. I could have gone on reading about Cassidy and Ethan for awhile. They were two characters who really clicked for me. I really loved how this author made these characters seem real. The hero in this book isn't perfect and he doesn't want to be. He made a mistake in the past and sets out to right the wrong he did to Cassidy. I just loved Cassidy and Ethan together but I really liked the secondary characters as well. This author did a great job with this book and I can't wait to see what's next.
Profile Image for Linda.
681 reviews34 followers
February 10, 2015
I originally read and reviewed Ms. Fasano’s Take Me, I Yours for BigAl’s Books and Pals book blog. Here is most of my review for this book. I am looking forward to reading other stories in this bundle.

Ms. Fasano has a talent for telling stories, and I swear she uses magic. This story hits the ground running with a kidnapping attempt on the beach of a four year-old girl who has gotten away from her grandfather. This author has a way to capture her characters and make them real people and puts them into situations they must work through, and she does it in a totally believable way. Lainey is a smart woman and stays true to her character no matter what it costs. Regardless of what happens, she keeps her integrity.

Derek is taken with Lainey, but because of his pride he has some issues to work through. He has a hard edge because of his history with Abbie’s mother, and the tension was almost unbearable for me. He is a smart man and has a big heart, but I was afraid the odds were too big to get past all of his issues. I was on an emotional rollercoaster. Perhaps I am just a little emotionally vulnerable right now, but I was so afraid I was not going to get my Happily Ever After in this story.

One of the delights in this story are the kids, Lainey’s son, Brian, and Derek’s daughter, Abbie, were perfectly written. I love the way they interacted with the adults in this story. How the author conveys the interactions of her characters through their actions and dialogue is plain magic. Donna Fasano has yet to disappoint me; this is an intelligent heartwarming story.

**Originally written for "Books and Pals" book blog. May have received a free review copy.**
238 reviews14 followers
February 10, 2015
Hearts and Kisses is definitely a collection that is worth buying. 12 romantic novels and novellas for the price of $0.99 is way too good. Even if you have read 1 or 2 of the stories before (like I have), it is still worth buying. These stories make you laugh and cry and are definitely perfect for Valentine's Day.

All the stories are great but just like to highlight a few of my favorites:

1) Love Struck by Patrice Wilton
If you have read the previous books in the Serendipity Falls series and enjoyed them, be sure not to miss this one. This story is part of the series and it sort of closes the "love bug" mystery. It is really funny and shows once again that love happens even when you least expect it to.

2) The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour
A very interesting story about a guy who forces his dead brother's gorgeous, headstrong surrogate to marry him so he can take her and her twins to Chile to cheer his ailing mum. The story has some unexpected twists and I found it really interesting. And it drives through the fact that there shouldn't be any secrets in a marriage.

3) The Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Thatcher
This is my first book by Ari Thatcher and I enjoyed it very much. It was a funny, sweet and romantic story and I am definitely looking forward to reading more of her books.
Profile Image for Patricia.
838 reviews
March 2, 2015
THE BIG, HUGE HEART CARVED IN THE SAND, THE DESK, THE TREE-TRUNK..
This is a collection of tissue-exploiting love stories by authors who clearly understand their craft, not only in terms of wordsmithing, but also in terms of knowledge of the human condition. The characters waltz, drift, walk, run, parade.... through the stories on their way to happily ever after in reckless abandonment, carefully choreographed, gently swaying, movement sometimes with a rebel yell, and sometimes with a strangled yelp, or everything in between.
And THAT is one thing that an anthology can be : a triumphant exploration of a genre to showcase the talents of multiple authors.
In this case, the genre is romance, and the exploration is certainly triumphant. Each of these stories has some nuggets of joy. Some contain villains, and several appear to be heading to one ending, only to change direction very suddenly ( and completely) to yield a much more poignant moment, with a lot more happiness.
I received an ARC of this anthology in return for a review of one of the stories. I recommend them all, and by extension, their authors. It is highly unlikely, of course, that I would end up with an ARC from an author I don't follow...
Profile Image for Laura.
2,557 reviews
February 10, 2015
Great Boxed Set, Grab This Set Fast!
This is a great boxed set! You get 12, YES 12 contemporary valentine novels and novellas in this boxed set by some of the best authors. I love several of these authors in this set especially Sophia Knightly. I also have new favorites after reading this set. These books will make you laugh, cry, and cheer for the characters. All of the books end with a HEA and are perfect reads for Valentine’s Day.
Sophia’s book Heart Tamer is a wonderful sweet read I love Alec and Kate's story! Kate and Alec have been divorced for years, but Kate wants something from Alec, so she comes to his sister’s wedding to talk to Alec about her plan. When they meet again, their love is just as fierce as it was when they were married. I think that Sophia did a fabulous job with this book. I can't wait until the next book in this series comes out! If you love a good romance with a hunky Scottish guy who wears a kilt, then you need to read this book, along with the other books in this series.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
Profile Image for Laura.
3,205 reviews348 followers
July 16, 2015
I would have paid 99 cents for each of these stories and gotten great value for my money, so to get this entire set for under a dollar was a no brainer.
It includes stories of good lengths from authors I have enjoyed in the past and introduced me to new (to me) authors that I will for sure be looking to read more from in their future.

Love and romance come in many many forms and this set covers a wide variety.
It shares about exes, do they deserve a second chance, and ones that got away before there was a good first chance.
It covers familial love and parental love, right place, wrong person.
Love is a negotiation and love requires playing ball.
Misunderstanding and secrets cause obstacles no matter the relationship.
Love in times of war, abandoned babies and children that feel abandoned still as adults.
We even learn about love and loyalty as it relates to land and homesteads.
Starting over in a new place to heal.
The priciples of stewardship, that we are caretakers for future generations.

Rock stars and sports players, computer geeks, military personnel, single parents, this set covers so many situations and personality types!
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,276 reviews53 followers
February 10, 2015
Awesome box set with 12 romances, perfect for Valentine's Day or any Romantic.

Heat Tamer: A great story about second chances. Kate and Alec let pride get in the way before, but his sister's wedding has given them an opportunity fort a second chance. Kate has a big request she wants to ask Alec, will go along with or does he have some stipulations of his own. Will they learn from past mistakes or is history going to repeat itself?

The Sometime Bride: Carrie and Mike are not having much luck it the love department. Both jilted by their loves now find themselves in a pickle they decide to make a fake fiance bargain, but what happens when it no longer feels like pretend?

The Surrogate's Secret: I really loved this one. When two people believe that love and happiness are not in the cards for them find most precious gift of love. Miguel convinces Sheri to marry him and bring his precious niece and nephew to Chile. Soon sparks really start flying between the two. You know what they say when you assume too bad Miguel forgets that. Plus Sheri is keeping a pretty big secret from Miguel.

*will add more as I read the rest of this great box set*
Profile Image for Crystal.
496 reviews31 followers
February 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this anthology. It had several authors that I have read before and I found some new authors that I want to read more of. I had a few favorites but I enjoyed all the stories. One of the stories that I really enjoyed was Love Struck by Patricia Wilton. It was such a nice light, romantic read about two people falling in love who didn't think they wanted to be in love. I fell in love with Kyle and Samantha and Serendipity Falls. This is the third and final book in this series. It can definitely be read as a stand-alone. After reading it though I am anxious to read the other two and revisit Serendipity Falls.

I really enjoyed Heart Tamer by Sophia Knightly and The Sometime Bride by Ginny Baird also. Both were sweet romances and the characters were well written. I felt that I was reading a story about friends.

I just highlighted a few of the stories that I really enjoyed but the whole collection is very good and I definitely recommend it.
2,130 reviews46 followers
February 17, 2015
Hearts and Kisses is a great collection that celebrates love and happily ever after. I enjoyed the variety. These contemporary stories are set in a wide variety of locations and each contains memorable characters and plenty of romance. The heroes are handsome and determined to win their ladies. The heroines are not to be taken likely. They are feisty and loving. I enjoyed all twelve stories. Ginny Baird made me sigh with The Sometime Bride. When Carrie is jilted by an unfaithful lover, she finds the man of her dreams in the swimming pool. Mike is a true romantic. What a keeper. I love Miguel in The Surrogate's Secret by Mimi Barbour, as he falls in love with Sheri and her twins. He wants them to become a family but misunderstandings and secrets keep them apart. This boxed set is perfect. It's filled with great stories written by talented authors. I could go on and on but I'll just say that Hearts and Kisses is a keeper.
Profile Image for NancyK.
115 reviews9 followers
February 15, 2015
Probable Keeper. The Army Doctor's Valentine Baby by Helen Scott Taylor was why I got this anthology and why I will probably keep it. It completes the Army Doctor series for me and I enjoyed this short story. I found it interesting how the hero and heroine got together when they were working together in the army hospital in Scotland. I also enjoyed the Rock Star's Wedding by Ari Thatcher. Usually second chance romances annoy me, why didn't they get together the first time? And this story had a touch of that, I felt the hero let her go a little too easily the first time around. They did address that and work through that reasonably well. The Love Stuck story by Patrice Wilton continues the Serendipity Falls story line. It may have advanced the series but the love bug stalkers, both male and female were a little over the top.
Profile Image for Britney.
768 reviews12 followers
February 14, 2015
Hearts and Kisses is a great collection of love stories! These best-selling and award-winning authors have shared twelve romances that are filled with love and laughter, hope and heartache, and so much more! I love boxed sets because of the varied settings and storylines. I begin each new story anxious to find out who I will meet and where I will travel. I am happy to say I met some great characters and traveled the world in Hearts and Kisses! Before reading this collection, I had only enjoyed a few of these authors. Now, I have found several more authors to enjoy!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts expressed in this review are given in honesty and without compensation.
Profile Image for Shannon Binegar-Foster.
2,878 reviews19 followers
February 10, 2015
I really enjoyed every book in this set. I think one of my favorites in this set is The Surrogate's Secret. I already had read The Sometime Bride as well as Love Struck but I read them both again and loved them just as much the second time around. After reading Breaking the Rules I purchased remaining books in the series by Mel Curtis with the exception of Amber Rules which I already had. I also purchased the rest of the Army Doctor's series by Helen Scott Taylor that I didn't already have as well as Heart Melter by Sophia Knightly. I hope you enjoy this set as much as I did. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review, which in now way influenced my opinion.
Profile Image for Sassy Southern Book Blog.
5,443 reviews274 followers
February 10, 2015
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

Hearts and Kisses boxset by various authors is full of short stories of love. This a perfect box set to have for Valentines Day. I really enjoyed reading all the story and I have definitely found some new authors to follow. The stories take place from different parts of the world. My favorite was Take Me, I'm Yours by Donna Fasano. This is a must read for romance book lovers. If you love reading romance stories this boxset is for you! I don't want to give to much away about the stories so I will just stop my review with this is one of the best box set out there.
Profile Image for Lela.
366 reviews9 followers
February 11, 2015
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

To start with, this collection of romance novels by a variety of award winning authors is only 99 cents so you can not go wrong with that! Some of these authors were brand new to me and I really enjoyed their work and will read something from them again. Each story has its own spark of romance and adventure. Some even have love and loss. A few even stand out in my mind still like the stories from Mimi Barbour, Mel Curtis, and Donna Fasano. I love when I can walk away from a collection of romance books like these and still have stories in my mind!
Profile Image for Katrina Epperson.
615 reviews
February 11, 2015
A wonderful collection of romance stories by 12 amazing authors. This collection is the perfect read for Valentine Day. Unfortunately I have only read four of the books so far, but definitely plan to finish reading the others. Each author brings friendship, romance, trust and humor to each story. Settings are vividly detailed, plot that flow effortlessly and lovable characters. Each story takes you to a different locale and you might find yourself in the United States, Paris, Scotland or even Baghdad. I would recommend this collection to anyone who loves a good romance.
Profile Image for Joan Mueller.
331 reviews7 followers
February 11, 2015
This set is a wonderful mix of new chances at love for characters who have had challenges in their lives. Each individual novel and novella weaves a mix of hope, inspiration, and pure determination into a truly heartfelt story that speaks to you. I found myself talking to the characters and cheering them on. What was an interesting theme in some of the novels was the connection of flowers to love. Steamy scenes enhanced character visualization portraying a real world perspective. I would highly recommend this set.
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