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Sleeping with Elvis
Pepper Langley, an unemployed preschool teacher with a fear of flying and boating, hopes a vacation to remote Key Lime Island will bolster her confidence and salvage her relationship with her rogue boyfriend. From tiny Nowhere, Arkansas, she scrimped all year to afford the lavish trip, but a deadly storm changes everything.
Gorgeous Elvis impersonator Ty Townsend flees to Key Lime Island between gigs. During this hiatus, he reevaluates his profession after twice forgetting the King's lyrics. He craves the isle's solitude--far away from social media haters--where he shares beach life with a cursing parrot. The last thing on his mind is a woman, especially one who isn't supposed to be there.
Will their secrets tear them apart or will they find happiness on the sand and stage?
Gorgeous Elvis impersonator Ty Townsend flees to Key Lime Island between gigs. During this hiatus, he reevaluates his profession after twice forgetting the King's lyrics. He craves the isle's solitude--far away from social media haters--where he shares beach life with a cursing parrot. The last thing on his mind is a woman, especially one who isn't supposed to be there.
Will their secrets tear them apart or will they find happiness on the sand and stage?
290 pages, Paperback
Published August 26, 2016
44 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
About the author
Beth Carter
42 books172 followersFormerly a bank VP and hospital marketer, Beth Carter shed her suits and heels at mid-life to pen novels, nonfiction books, and children's picture books. The author doesn't miss the 8 o'clock meetings, nor heels, whatsoever.
Author of the popular six-book Coconuts series beginning with THURSDAYS AT COCONUTS, Carter has also penned standalone novels including BRIDE SWAP, BRIDE GAMES (Book 2), SLEEPING WITH ELVIS, MIRACLE ON AISLE TWO, and THE CHRISTMAS FIB.
During Covid, the author created THE QUARANTINE COOKBOOK which benefitted charity and features nearly 200 delicious recipes. This cookbook received a gold medal from the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards. Carter is also the author of I WROTE A BOOK. NOW WHAT? for beginning and aspiring authors, which received a bronze medal in 2021.
In addition, Carter writes kids' books and can't think of anything more important than encouraging reading from a young age. She is the recipient of multiple awards including gold, silver, and bronze medals in the 2020 & 2021 Reader's Favorite Awards, a coveted RONE Award for best Women's Fiction/Chick Lit for THURSDAYS AT COCONUTS and was named Best Debut Author in 2015 by BTS Books. Carter has also received multiple Raven Awards.
The author writes from Missouri and Florida. She loves dancing, board games, shopping, some reality TV, observing nature, reading, pickleball, and of course, storytelling. Follow her at www.bethcarter.com or find her on Facebook, X, or IG where she spends far too much time. Join her private group, Beth's Book Babes, on FB!
Author of the popular six-book Coconuts series beginning with THURSDAYS AT COCONUTS, Carter has also penned standalone novels including BRIDE SWAP, BRIDE GAMES (Book 2), SLEEPING WITH ELVIS, MIRACLE ON AISLE TWO, and THE CHRISTMAS FIB.
During Covid, the author created THE QUARANTINE COOKBOOK which benefitted charity and features nearly 200 delicious recipes. This cookbook received a gold medal from the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards. Carter is also the author of I WROTE A BOOK. NOW WHAT? for beginning and aspiring authors, which received a bronze medal in 2021.
In addition, Carter writes kids' books and can't think of anything more important than encouraging reading from a young age. She is the recipient of multiple awards including gold, silver, and bronze medals in the 2020 & 2021 Reader's Favorite Awards, a coveted RONE Award for best Women's Fiction/Chick Lit for THURSDAYS AT COCONUTS and was named Best Debut Author in 2015 by BTS Books. Carter has also received multiple Raven Awards.
The author writes from Missouri and Florida. She loves dancing, board games, shopping, some reality TV, observing nature, reading, pickleball, and of course, storytelling. Follow her at www.bethcarter.com or find her on Facebook, X, or IG where she spends far too much time. Join her private group, Beth's Book Babes, on FB!
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
August 11, 2016
As an Elvis fan and an avid reader, I loved this story. It was playful and fun from the very beginning. This book had everything I like, romance, suspense, adventure and a happy ending. What a delight.
December 2, 2017
First time Beth Carter reader here and consider me converted! Sleeping with Elvis is just what the doctor ordered. This guy's been in a bit of a reading slump, but Carter pulled me right out with this easy going, fast-paced, laugh-out-loud read! Who would've thought a vacation to a Key Lime paradise would end in such commotion. Enter our female MC Pepper who's long overdue for a vacation... and a new boyfriend. When their vacation together ends up on the rocks (quite literally), she's lost in paradise without a paddle to keep her afloat. It's all up to her new mancrush Ty, who looks far too much like a certain King to be an accident, to pull her out of her funk and keep her on the straight and narrow. When life thrusts Pepper into the realm of Ty, music, Key Lime Island, and a foul-mouthed Parrot, anything can happen! An emotional roller coaster from beginning to end, Carter does a great job in keeping with the tone of the novel while still keeping our story well-within the navigational beacons with quick quips and eloquent prose. With such a fun setting, it was no wonder I enjoyed this quick read. Hailing from the Ozarks myself, it was a joy to see a glimpse into the mind of an author who knows the territory! The transition from Floridian Paradise to Missouri Backcountry was flawless! While this may have been a one-shot story into the lives of Pepper and Ty, I'd love to see more of this universe from Carter. I know I'll definitely be checking out more of her contemporary romance stories ASAP. Add this one to your TBR folks, you're in for a real treat! Carter definitely hits home and does it 'Her Way' with Sleeping with Elvis!
June 11, 2019
I read this book after reading another book by the author. I was expecting a light, maybe comedic, story. Something to just pass the time. I was surprised with so much more.
I was surprised with the storyline of a young woman in an abusive relationship. I was astonished to find a character that I could relate to. I was in an abusive relationship for many years, some of those years involved me being a domestic violence liaison. I knew about the circle of violence and the reasons why one should leave. I, oddly, never felt that I was anywhere in there. What was going on at home didn’t resemble the circle. I started reading books that had DV as a theme. I was looking for me. I finally found someone who resembled me a bit. I really understood Pepper. I was excited to see a character that represented women like me and didn’t downplay it or sugarcoat it or make her a superhero. Pepper was flawed and she was caught in the web that guys like Derek cast so well. Before you start thinking this is a triggering, dramatic story, let me assure you it is not. Only one instance of physical violence was mentioned and Pepper was questioning whether or not she should mention it. I often downplayed my injuries, sometimes outright lying about them. Most of Pepper’s abuse was emotional/mental. Balancing that was Pepper’s thoughts about leaving and a vacation coming up. She had to face some fears with that, too. She meets a few men who help her in her journey to escape. I adored George. The story had dramatic times but also had fun times. Saylor was absolutely a favorite character and I think everyone wants Ty.
A lot of times, when reading books that have DV as part of the story, I have to stop and read something else, color, watch a movie, listen to music or hike. I just need breaks to breathe and soothe myself. I didn’t need that with this book. Whenever I had to put it down, I was itching to get back to it. I wished I had blocked out time to read it with no interruptions. I was hooked by flawed but courageous Pepper. I understood her weak moments. I knew why she was hesitant and easily led to believe appearances. I cheered every time she was fearless or faking it. This book that I chose just because I enjoy Elvis and I liked the author’s book Babies at Coconuts, became a story that touched me deeper than I expected. I recommend the book and hope you take the chance on reading it. If you are uncertain, ask your library to get it or borrow it through KU.
I was surprised with the storyline of a young woman in an abusive relationship. I was astonished to find a character that I could relate to. I was in an abusive relationship for many years, some of those years involved me being a domestic violence liaison. I knew about the circle of violence and the reasons why one should leave. I, oddly, never felt that I was anywhere in there. What was going on at home didn’t resemble the circle. I started reading books that had DV as a theme. I was looking for me. I finally found someone who resembled me a bit. I really understood Pepper. I was excited to see a character that represented women like me and didn’t downplay it or sugarcoat it or make her a superhero. Pepper was flawed and she was caught in the web that guys like Derek cast so well. Before you start thinking this is a triggering, dramatic story, let me assure you it is not. Only one instance of physical violence was mentioned and Pepper was questioning whether or not she should mention it. I often downplayed my injuries, sometimes outright lying about them. Most of Pepper’s abuse was emotional/mental. Balancing that was Pepper’s thoughts about leaving and a vacation coming up. She had to face some fears with that, too. She meets a few men who help her in her journey to escape. I adored George. The story had dramatic times but also had fun times. Saylor was absolutely a favorite character and I think everyone wants Ty.
A lot of times, when reading books that have DV as part of the story, I have to stop and read something else, color, watch a movie, listen to music or hike. I just need breaks to breathe and soothe myself. I didn’t need that with this book. Whenever I had to put it down, I was itching to get back to it. I wished I had blocked out time to read it with no interruptions. I was hooked by flawed but courageous Pepper. I understood her weak moments. I knew why she was hesitant and easily led to believe appearances. I cheered every time she was fearless or faking it. This book that I chose just because I enjoy Elvis and I liked the author’s book Babies at Coconuts, became a story that touched me deeper than I expected. I recommend the book and hope you take the chance on reading it. If you are uncertain, ask your library to get it or borrow it through KU.
February 15, 2018
Lovely way to end my Valentine’s Day by finishing this ! First I’ll add that this is any Elvis fans MUST READ! I’ll add that I’m not an Elvis fan by definition BUT with that said it was quite a delightful refreshing read ! Let it be known that this author was new to me & I solely purchased this book because of the Title, amazing cover & because it was signed by author available for sale from a Fl gallery. I thought the setting was spectacular & that Beth did a wonderful job with her visuals . Initially I’d hoped the EX Derek wouldn’t be in the storyline as much since we had a sexy Elvis in a budding beach romance but I can appreciate his appearance because his relationship with Pepper had influenced Peppers entire behavior in the story . Finally I’ve got to say that while I usually tend to enjoy more intensely heated graphic Romances , I was able to appreciate this for what it had to offer because of the creative way the author brought these two together despite all their ill timed interruptions for intimacy... but then again .. that’s how their story played out ! I’d love a mini novella follow up about them in a newsletter one day! :)
July 18, 2017
A parrot, a shipwreck, and an unusual romance. What more do you need? :)
(Caveat: I am a big Elvis fan and this book is made for Elvis fans! :) )
I won this book in a contest and it's hands down one of the best books I've read this year! :) Beth Carter's writing is smooth and enjoyable and envelops you into the unusual romance of the likeable and relatable main character. You feel her understandable fear, worry, and appropriate apprehension to the various situations she finds herself in, and yet, Beth Carter does a great job at making the more flightful flights of fantasy seem plausible, and to be honest, enviable. I was totally absorbed in this story. A perfect beach read for 3-4 hours. Don't forget the sunscreen mid-way; it's that good! 5 Stars! (P.S.: I love the Elvis trivia; a must read for Elvis fans! :) )
(Caveat: I am a big Elvis fan and this book is made for Elvis fans! :) )
I won this book in a contest and it's hands down one of the best books I've read this year! :) Beth Carter's writing is smooth and enjoyable and envelops you into the unusual romance of the likeable and relatable main character. You feel her understandable fear, worry, and appropriate apprehension to the various situations she finds herself in, and yet, Beth Carter does a great job at making the more flightful flights of fantasy seem plausible, and to be honest, enviable. I was totally absorbed in this story. A perfect beach read for 3-4 hours. Don't forget the sunscreen mid-way; it's that good! 5 Stars! (P.S.: I love the Elvis trivia; a must read for Elvis fans! :) )
November 29, 2016
Get some chocolate and a glass of wine and dive into Sleeping With Elvis.
I bought this book at a conference and I am so glad I did.
A delightful frothy beach read, but don’t wait for summer. Beth Carter’s written a beach that you can enjoy right now. Key Lime Island has sugar-white sand, tropical weather and a slew of townsfolk you can love. Plus a sweet heroine, a hunky Elvis impersonator, and a grey parrot that had me in stitches. And best of all for me, they end up in Branson, Missouri, a place I’ve always wanted to go because a friend of mine has a theatre there. And she mentions it! And one of these days I am going to see Jim Stafford in person again. Thank you for a lovely read, Beth Carter. Keep them coming.
I bought this book at a conference and I am so glad I did.
A delightful frothy beach read, but don’t wait for summer. Beth Carter’s written a beach that you can enjoy right now. Key Lime Island has sugar-white sand, tropical weather and a slew of townsfolk you can love. Plus a sweet heroine, a hunky Elvis impersonator, and a grey parrot that had me in stitches. And best of all for me, they end up in Branson, Missouri, a place I’ve always wanted to go because a friend of mine has a theatre there. And she mentions it! And one of these days I am going to see Jim Stafford in person again. Thank you for a lovely read, Beth Carter. Keep them coming.
August 15, 2017
This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
July 17, 2017
Fit For A King
If you start with a likable but broken woman and an instantly hated boyfriend and an Elvis impersonator, you got something. Add a talk-dirty-to-me bird and you got a real rocker on your hands. Funny in all the right places, well-told, and compelling. A truly entertaining read.
If you start with a likable but broken woman and an instantly hated boyfriend and an Elvis impersonator, you got something. Add a talk-dirty-to-me bird and you got a real rocker on your hands. Funny in all the right places, well-told, and compelling. A truly entertaining read.
September 1, 2017
A really great summer "read"! Beth Carter's characters are real, even Elvis! The plot points, characters, and setting details had me feeling Key Lime Island's salt and sand and Branson's down-homey excitement. Hated to finish. May read again. Can't wait to read THURSDAYS AT COCONUTS!
August 23, 2016
Excellent
Great read couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read more from Beth Carter. Hopefully there will be a sequel.
Great read couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read more from Beth Carter. Hopefully there will be a sequel.
June 20, 2017
Beth did an amazing job with this one! Witty and so sweet. I couldn't put it down. I fell in love with Ty right along with Pepper.. Will be reading again soon!
August 9, 2018
Fun, warm, witty and with a saucy parrot to boot! Author, Beth Carter, had me from the first page. When Pepper an Derek set their sites on a much needed vacation on Key Lime island, there is anything but romance in Pepper's plan. After scrimping and saving all year, Pepper is on the fence about facing her fears to fly and boat her way to vacation bliss. Her loser boyfriend doesn't help her feel secure and actually feeds her anxiety with his bad behavior. The recently out of work preschool teacher has nothing to stay in Nowhere, Arkansas for and could really enjoy a little sand and sun. After arriving in Paradise with the one ball and chain that you can't wait for her to break free of, she finally goes ashore by herself to explore. What she finds is handsome, Ty, and he is trying to break free of a different nuisance. Pepper is the breath of fresh air he desperately needs. I love that this is not a formula romance. The author introduces characters that have real problems and make real mistakes. Though the book is a fun beach read, I hope it will send a message to women in terrible relationships that there is a way out, even if they don't get to sleep with Elvis. Cute, charming and funny, I look forward to reading more from this author.
December 22, 2017
Average
I got too frustrated with Pepper's character. She keeps putting off breaking up with loser Derek. Then when she has a great guy, Ty, in the palm of her hand she thinks Derek deserves to be herd?! Then she runs away from Ty because of a story that comes out that he got a porn star pregnant before she even met him. The writer made it sound like he cheated on Pepper. Not a great or believable story.
I got too frustrated with Pepper's character. She keeps putting off breaking up with loser Derek. Then when she has a great guy, Ty, in the palm of her hand she thinks Derek deserves to be herd?! Then she runs away from Ty because of a story that comes out that he got a porn star pregnant before she even met him. The writer made it sound like he cheated on Pepper. Not a great or believable story.
July 15, 2022
read this on holiday. wish it hd more sex😞😞😞😞 especially between ty and derek and them pepper and frank😳😈. quite frankly, i think ty shouldve had a questionable relationship with his parrot. it wouldve made his character more interesting and the story a little more…. risqué😈🔥😛. otherwise, this book is pretty good, i read due to my love of elvis and also my name is pauline like peppers mother so when he sang to her mother i cried bcs i love him also🤤😳🔥
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2020
Sleeping with Elvis is a fun fast dread with some definite suspense mixed in. The characters are easily identifiable.
I love Beth Carter and the way she tells a story. You really can’t go wrong reading anything written be her
I definitely recommend this book. It has a fantastic ending!
I love Beth Carter and the way she tells a story. You really can’t go wrong reading anything written be her
I definitely recommend this book. It has a fantastic ending!
October 31, 2016
Uncaged Book Reviews:
So Pepper is meant to be going on holiday with her boyfriend Derek. Who is a jerk in every way possible. There both going to Key Lime Island But the only way to get there is a boat ride and then a plane ride. Two things Pepper is scared of forced to go nevertheless. It isn’t smooth sailing and some unexpected tragedies hit. But on the plus side there is some fun holiday times to enjoy. A swearing Parrot and let’s throw in an Elvis singer to mix things up.
This book has some sad moments but a lot of funny and heartwarming moments. Plus it’s a perfect read for on holiday or just a beach read. I really enjoyed this book and wouldn’t mind visiting the Key Lime Island myself.
So Pepper is meant to be going on holiday with her boyfriend Derek. Who is a jerk in every way possible. There both going to Key Lime Island But the only way to get there is a boat ride and then a plane ride. Two things Pepper is scared of forced to go nevertheless. It isn’t smooth sailing and some unexpected tragedies hit. But on the plus side there is some fun holiday times to enjoy. A swearing Parrot and let’s throw in an Elvis singer to mix things up.
This book has some sad moments but a lot of funny and heartwarming moments. Plus it’s a perfect read for on holiday or just a beach read. I really enjoyed this book and wouldn’t mind visiting the Key Lime Island myself.
November 18, 2016
Elvis fans will be attracted to this book and may well feel that they’ve been to a show themselves by the end, as the author is obviously not short on knowledge of the star.
Read full review in the 2016 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2016 November issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 24, 2017
Excellent read
I couldn't put this story down. A quick read and wonderful story! I can't wait to read more from this author.
I couldn't put this story down. A quick read and wonderful story! I can't wait to read more from this author.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews