Rush
By: Gina Gordon Releasing May 12, 2015 Loveswept
In this edgy, sizzling romance for fans of Monica Murphy and Abbi Glines, a bad boy shows a straitlaced law student how to slow down and savor the good things.
Everly Parker is about to graduate from law school, always busy, and can’t stop rushing through life. Her late grandmother left her a bucket list of meaningful, can’t-miss experiences, but she hasn’t completed a single one. Then searing-hot Max Levin bursts into her world. As a casting director for a porn production company, Max is loaded, cocky, and all wrong for Everly. Still, she’s tempted enough to cross the first item off her list: Go out with someone you’d never give the time of day. Inheriting a porn empire isn’t every guy’s dream (well, actually, it probably is), but Max isn’t complaining. It’s just that until he meets Everly, he has no idea what he’s been missing. As the pressure mounts to take over the family business, Max can’t help wondering what would happen if he chose Everly instead. So far, his life has been a wild ride, but only Everly promises the greatest rush of all: love.
“Some of us find it easier to live than others.” I made sure to use air quotes to get my point across. “You probably get everything you want, don’t you?” I picked up the pen that sat on the table next to my laptop and tapped it against the fake wood. “Expensive cars. Expensive drinks. Women.”
Offense burned in his gaze. I saw it there for a split second before a smirk curved at the side of his lips and he leaned back, settling his torso against the bench. “You think I’m just an asshole in a suit.” In the first two minutes of our introduction, maybe. Now I wasn’t so sure, but I didn’t need to tell him that. I smiled and shrugged. “At least it’s an expensive suit.” I expected him to laugh at my joke, but he didn’t. Instead he reached across the table. “What’s this?” He pulled the bucket list from between the pages of my textbook. “The color matches your eyes.” “Give that back.” I swiped my hand at his, but he pulled the sheet of paper away too quickly. Panic seized my brain and body. “What is this?” I breathed heavily. Being a lawyer was a search for the truth, for justice—I found it hard to lie. Under any circumstance. And I wasn’t going to start now. “It’s a bucket list.” “A bucket list?” His eyes worked from side to side as he read the items. “Are you dying?” he asked. “No!” The response was little louder than I’d anticipated, but it was an awful question. His face scrunched up in confusion. “Then what are you doing with a bucket list?” I swiped again and this time I connected. I grabbed the paper out of his grip. “It’s none of your business.” There were a lot of personal things on that list. Things I didn’t want a total stranger knowing I hadn’t done, like have a really good laugh. “Have you completed any of the items?” “If you haven’t noticed . . .” I pointed to the table with all my studying accessories. “I’m a little busy.” Just then a smile spread across his face. God, he needed to stop doing that. “What if I offered to help you cross off one of those items tomorrow?” I cocked my head. This should be good. “Go out with me tomorrow night.” He lifted his hand and traced a check mark in the air as he said, “Item number one . . . check.” “What?” My eyes scanned the list. Although I had it memorized, I needed to double check. Go out with someone you wouldn’t give the time of day. “You’re . . . crazy.” No he wasn’t. He was exactly right. Loosen up, girlie. You only been given one life. Live it. I tensed at the sound of Gram’s voice in my head. Just then my favorite server came by to collect my empty cup. I was barely acknowledged. She couldn’t tear her gaze away from my guest. I felt jealousy tighten in my stomach, a feeling I was not used to. Maybe she wasn’t my favorite waitress anymore. More important than the loss of my best barista, was his statement. Had I judged him wrong? He didn’t acknowledge the server. Instead, his eyes stayed perfectly fixed on me. I swallowed hard. I wasn’t blind to his presence either—the masculine lines of his face, his totally kissable lips. Heat bloomed inside my body, in places I hadn’t properly acknowledged in a very long time. Was I wrong for wanting to feel the softness of his lips against mine, against my skin, against every inch of my body? The sexual attraction to him was nothing I’d ever felt before—beginning as a slow ache between my thighs upon first sight and now an outright burn. Down, girl. I fisted my hands on my lap, under the table and out of sight. I couldn’t let him see just what kind of effect he had on me. He reached over and grabbed the list again. “Go out with someone you wouldn’t give the time of day.” He grinned. “I believe that’s me.” He seemed way to happy to be not my type. But I couldn’t go out with him. Could I? He leaned across the table and my nipples hardened at his infiltration of my personal space. “I bet you do everything you’re supposed to.” He cocked his head to the left. “Don’t you?” As a matter of fact, I did. But damn him for thinking he knew me. He dipped his head as if making a point to shield his forthcoming words from others. I swallowed hard. “You may not think I’m nice. You may not think I’m sexy. But as for completing your life . . .” His piercing gaze met mine and I knew that with only a little more coaxing, I could be another one of his anonymous panty donors. “How do you know if you don’t give it a try?” I scoffed. “I’ve never tried bull testicles, but I know they can’t be good.” The grin never left his face as he pulled away. “Then it’s settled.” He slapped his palm on the table. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow night at ten. I’ll get your address from Jade.” He pointed behind him. “It was nice meeting you, Everly Parker.” He extracted himself from the booth. “I can’t . . . wait . . .” I reached out as if to grab him, but my hand fisted around air. Like a ghost, he had waltzed in and out of my life, somehow managing to shake my focus. I’ve had my head down and nose in a book for the last three years and nothing has distracted me—except Max Levin. The blinders I’ve had in place to keep out the rest of the world had somehow been knocked off and I had no idea what to do with myself. I sucked in a large breath. I admired his retreating form, especially that tight backside, which I wanted to feel against my palms. The farther away he got, the harder my body ached to touch him. I looked up to the ceiling. I wasn’t one for believing in the supernatural, or even fate. I believed you made your own fate. But I couldn’t shake the feeling that Max Levin had been sent to help me with my bucket list problem.
Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/02/rush-by-gina-gordon.html
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23166903-rush Meet the author Gina Gordon
When her dream of becoming a mafia princess didn’t pan out, Gina Gordon went after her second dream: becoming a writer. And she hasn’t looked back. A self-proclaimed happily-ever-after junkie and cupcake connoisseur, Gordon loves spinning contemporary tales of knee-bending first kisses, unconditional love, and super-hot sex. She lives in Milton, Ontario, with her husband and their lovable dog.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
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Take control…
When militant Colombian guerrillas kidnap her clients, EXtreme Adventures travel agent Jenna Collins will do anything to rescue them…including hiring the Navy SEAL she’s struggled to forget. Mack may take orders from her father, but Jenna’s determined to convince the sexy SEAL to work with her. And to stick around this time. Protect the girl… Navy SEAL Mack Riley will take a jungle rescue in hostile territory over close contact with the admiral’s daughter who loved him and left him. But when Jenna forces her way onto the rescue team, the admiral’s orders to protect Jenna at all costs has Mack sticking to her as close as body armor. In the heat of battle, love has a way of breaching the strongest of defenses…
The action is fierce, bloody and brutal. It made my heart beat faster, and bite my nails. It's non-stop once it starts, the situations are not getting better, or more peaceful, quite the opposite. There's no safe place to be found, no one is beyond the danger zone. Absolutely hair-raising situation after another.
The team of SEALs, hired by Jenna, are true brothers. They banter, joke and play when they can. But they are also prepared to protect each other no matter what, have each others back, and ready to run into a deadly situation to save their brothers. The repartee is fun, made me smile and chuckle several times, their enthusiasm is endless, energy contagious. Jenna and Mack has a burning hot connection, yet the love they have for each other is palpable. The history between them comes out through the story by their memories, and it's evident, they have some misunderstandings between them. Jenna is stubborn to the core. Because of her need to stay in control, and the stubbornness, she makes several questionable, dangerous decisions, that were frustrating at times. The story is entertaining and fun military action packed thrill ride. There's no angst or blues to mention. After the action started it captured my mind, and I had to keep reading until the end, just to see what happened, and the ending did not disappoint. ~ Four Spoons!
When aspiring-writer Mallory Reynolds packed up for New York City, she ditched more than her quiet hometown of Magnolia Bay—she left her high-school sweetheart, Josh Loveless, behind. But when the big city didn’t deliver big contracts on her novels, she turned to writing erotica under the pen name Farrah Ivory to spare her family any embarrassment. Soon, her scandalously-sexy series, The Lost Diaries of Scarlet, is a break-out hit. Just as Mallory begins to enjoy her sweet success, her publisher leaks her true identity and a media firestorm ensues. Exposed, she decides there’s nowhere to hide—except for home.
For Josh Loveless, getting over Mallory Reynolds hasn’t been easy, but he’s done his best to move on. For starters, he’s turned his love of the outdoors and rock-climbing into his own business. And just as things are starting to settle for him, he learns Mallory’s coming home to ride out her scandal, and suddenly his world is turned upside down again… Can Mallory convince her friends and family that she’s still the same good-hearted girl they knew? And more importantly, can Josh trust the woman she’s become, and give her a second chance to rewrite their love story with a happy ending?
The author's foreword said this story is all about hot summer sun, fun, and second chances, and that was so true.
I really liked both Josh and Mallory. The feelings they had for each other were genuine, and real. Their dreams of their future were ambitious, and they went after those dreams with everything they had. Unfortunately, those dreams took them apart for five years. But now they might have a second chance with each other, if they were just brave enough to embrace it. I loved how they did not spend a long time to hide their feelings, trying to hold on into their foolish pride, and keep away from each other. Also the advice Josh's brother gave him 'fight for her this time' nearly made me cheer out loud. The small town mentality and attitude with Mallory's books was amusing, how everyone knows everything about each other at the Bay never changing. It was an entertaining story, with lots of reunions, likable characters, and hot summer sun. But there was also little heartbreak, and growing up, developing as a person, and accepting the fact that we don't always stay the same, and we are not supposed to either. I think this is another novella that would have benefited from an epilogue with a look to the future, but I did enjoy it as it is, as well ~ Four Spoons!
The Cowboy's Reunion
Seeking redemption from his troubled past, cowboy Lee Bannister returns to his Montana hometown. He's not looking for love—just to prove he's not the same reckless guy who broke Abby Newton's heart and destroyed her family. But when Abby, a magazine photographer, is assigned to cover the story of his family ranch's 150th anniversary, old feelings start to resurface. He knows Abby will never forgive him. But as they spend more time together, they begin to discover the lies that kept them apart…and that some reunions are meant to last forever.
A powerful story about forgiveness; receiving forgiveness, and asking for it.
Lee and Abby have one of the most difficult histories between their families. Now, after years of exile, they are both visiting in their hometown, and seeing each other again is unavoidable in the small town. Both are heavily relying on their faith, they don't take these meetings lightly. I adored and admired the communication between them, they talked about the serious issues between them, they opened up and listened to each other. They find a way, despite all the history between them, to trust and to forgive, and to love. The road is not easy, or automatic. There's a lot of pain, angst, and sorrow they have to get through. The many family dynamics play into the story. The farm life, and the wonderful heritage they have in the land and traditions. They uncertain future in their chosen professions weigh in as well. I felt this story to my heart. I don't know anyone who wouldn't benefit from the message of the story, how we all need forgiveness in our imperfections. My absolute favorite line in the book "Love seems to find its own way through the complications" - what comfort and contentment in that sentence. ~ Four Spoons and a teaspoon on the side Ten Novels by Ten New York Times Bestselling Authors From the hot big city heroes that make us melt, to the sassy small town heroines that make us smile, this limited edition collection has something for everyone. Ten sexy and sweet full-length novels—a wide mix of fun, heart-tugging, addictively romantic love stories—each handpicked by an all-star gathering of ten of today’s most popular contemporary romance authors. -- Ten NYT Bestselling Authors -- Ten full-length, standalone novels (no cliffhangers) spanning 2,000+ pages -- Over 97% off retail for the individual books sold separately (a forty dollar savings!) -- Only available until June (So snag your copy today) THIS BOXED SET INCLUDES: BELLA ANDRE – Can’t Help Falling in Love (The Sullivans) MELISSA FOSTER – Seaside Dreams (Seaside Summers) LAUREN BLAKELY – Trophy Husband (Caught Up in Love) VIOLET DUKE – Love, Tussles, and Takedowns (Cactus Creek) SAWYER BENNETT – On the Rocks (The Last Call) CARLY PHILLIPS – Dare to Desire (Dare to Love) ERIN NICHOLAS – Out of Bounds (Boys of Fall) MELANIE SHAWN – Actually Love (Crossroads) JESSIE EVANS – Diamonds and Dust (Lonesome Point Texas) CRISTA MCHUGH – Falling for the Wingman (The Kelly Brothers)
BELLA ANDRE -- Can't Help Falling in Love (The Sullivans)
He can't make the mistake of falling for another fire victim. She can't love-and lose-another man with a dangerous job. Gabe Sullivan & Megan Harris have every reason to stay apart...but they can't help falling in love.
MELISSA FOSTER -- Seaside Dreams (Seaside Summers)
Bella Abbascia has quit her job, put her house on the market, and sworn off relationships while she builds a new life in her favorite place on earth, Wellfleet, Massachusetts. That is, until good-time Bella's prank takes a bad turn and a sinfully sexy police officer Caden Grant appears on the scene. After fourteen years of focusing solely on his son, Caden cannot resist the intense attraction he feels toward beautiful Bella, but starting over proves more difficult than either of them imagined. Can true love really conquer all?
LAUREN BLAKELY -- Trophy Husband (Caught Up in Love)
Sometimes you can't help falling in love, even when you try to do the opposite... McKenna embarks on a playful, ironic quest for a trophy husband after her ex has ditched her, but along the way she meets someone who rocks her world. And she'll have to choose between protecting her heart from hurt, or letting go of her fears of a new beginning. VIOLET DUKE -- Love, Tussles, and Takedowns (Cactus Creek) After his combat injuries retire him from the military career he wasn't ready to give up, battle-scarred Hudson Reyes now spends his new life as a movie industry fight scene and weapons specialist simply doing what he knows best: surviving. Until he meets her. The sweet, angel-faced wrecking ball to his good intentions--antique arms authenticator and martial arts maven, Liana Lin. Even though she's everything he's told himself he can't have, sure as sin, if one woman could sneak past the barbed wires he's wrapped around his heart, it'd be her. Now if only they could stop sparring long enough to find out...
SAWYER BENNETT -- On the Rocks (The Last Call)
He left to travel the world for fame and glory, but only after spurning Gabby Ward and crushing her young heart. Now Hunter Markham has come back home to the salty breeze of the North Carolina Outer Banks and looking at the all-grown-up Gabby in a whole new way. Still bitter over his rebuff years before, Gabby is content to stay far away from him and his dangerously charming ways, but when Hunter presents an offer to her that she simply can't refuse, she has to battle her ever growing attraction to the man that first taught her about heartbreak. CARLY PHILLIPS -- Dare to Desire (Dare to Love) Quarterback Alex Dare, had it all--an all-star football career and his choice of willing women--until injury forces him into early retirement. Social worker Madison Evans grew up in foster homes and knows what it means to have-not. She isn't impressed by Alex Dare's wealth or charm. Not since she fell hard for him once before, only to discover she was just one of his too-easy conquests. This time around Madison refuses to succumb. But Alex wants Madison. And if there is one thing Alex does well, it's to get what he wants. Can he convince Madison to take a risk and dare to love?
ERIN NICHOLAS -- Out of Bounds (Boys of Fall)
Wild child Jackson Brady doesn't think twice about returning home to help out when his beloved high school football coach gets sick. Jackson's done a lot of growing up in the past twelve years and this is an opportunity to atone for his past sins. But to get back into everyone's good graces, he needs to prove he's changed. Sweet, well-respected Annabelle Hartington is the key. If she'll give him a second chance, everyone will know he's a new man. Surprisingly, he's not the only one who's changed and it turns out nothing stirs his inner bad boy like the *former* goody-two-shoes. MELANIE SHAWN -- Actually Love (Crossroads) Real or fake... As VP of public relations for SPC, the beautiful and talented Jessie Sloan knew the difference. The order and control she had in her life was real. Love was fake and she didn't have time for fake. Win or lose... Sexy, sculpted boxing champ Zach Courtland has had his share of losses in life, but inside the ring, he knew nothing but wins. He was used to taking and landing punches, but little did he know that he was about to get the knockout of his life.
CRISTA MCHUGH -- Falling for the Wingman (The Kelly Brothers)
Air Force pilot Caleb Kelly has come back home with one mission in mind--to propose to the woman whose letters and lucky charm helped him survive his deployment in Afghanistan. But when he finds their apartment empty with a note saying she's left him, he arrives at her mother's house in rural Alabama too find Kourtney is about to marry another man. Her little sister, Alex, convinces him that the best way to get Kourtney back is to make her think he's fallen for someone new--her. But when a fake romance becomes all too real, Alex's deception may leave them both grounded. Excerpts:
CAN'T HELP FALLING IN LOVE
by Bella Andre Gabe Sullivan’s captain, Todd, stepped into the room. “How’re you feeling, Gabe?” “Good, Captain.” He moved to sit up straighter on the bed and Todd shook his head. “You’re fine just like that. I know your skull must hurt like hell.” He nodded back to the doorway. “Are you ready to see Ms. Harris and her daughter, Summer?” No, he thought, he’d be better off never seeing those eyes again. He’d thought about Megan and her daughter one too many times for comfort. Not just because he was reviewing the rescue, trying to look for what he could have done differently, to have gotten them out faster and more safely—but because he hadn’t been able to forget her strength, how hard she’d fought to stay conscious, and what a fighter she’d been every single second of the harrowing journey from her burning apartment. Still, he understood that fire victims often felt compelled to say thank you to the men who had saved them. Especially in a case like this, where they’d just barely held death at bay. “Sure.” He began to nod, but a sharp shooting pain stopped him halfway into the movement. Catching his grimace, Todd said, “I’ll ask Megan and her daughter to come back later.” Her name fit her, Gabe had found himself thinking one too many times. Megan was pretty and strong all at the same time. It would be better to think of her as Ms. Harris. Although, he had to wonder, was there a husband? And if so, where had he been during the fire and why wasn’t he here with them now? “No,” he said, “it’ll be better if I see them now.” She’d say thank you, he’d tell her he was happy to see her and her daughter doing so well, and that would be that. No more being haunted by her eyes, by the surprising strength she’d shown him as she’d crawled on the floor of her apartment and down the stairs. A couple of minutes later, Todd walked back in with the mother and daughter. Ignoring the pain in his head, Gabe sat up higher and forced a smile on his face. And then, his eyes locked with Megan’s and his smile froze in place. My God, he found himself thinking before he could shove the thought away, she’s beautiful. The last time he’d seen her face it had been through a thick haze of dark smoke and the knowledge that one wrong move meant their lives were over. Her eyes were just as big and pretty, her limbs looked as lean and strong as they had when he’d been helping to move her along the floor, but now he could see the softness in her, the sweet curves of her breasts and hips in her T-shirt and jeans. He couldn’t stop staring at the startling green of her eyes, the silky dark hair falling across her shoulders, and the way her pretty young daughter was a carbon copy of her, the only difference their hair color, one dark, one light. She seemed just as stunned as he and for a long moment, the two of them just stared at each other in silence until her daughter ran over to him and threw her arms around him. * * * * * * * * * * * DARE TO DESIRE BY CARLY PHILLIPS He slid his hand around the back of her neck, tilting her head up so she had to meet his gaze. His expression was one of determination. “I want another chance.” Want filled her every pore. “Alex—” He shook his head. “I’m not giving up.” She parted her lips—to disagree, she hoped—and he took full advantage, sealing his mouth over hers, stealing her arguments along with her breath. His tongue tangled with hers, and any rational thought fled in the wake of his kiss. She’d dreamed of tasting him one more time, and he didn’t disappoint. He took over the same way he always had, overpowering. Demanding. And she gave in to him as if she were meant to be his. His tongue gliding in and out, his mouth mating with hers, he gripped the back of her head in his hand, holding her firmly as he devoured her like he was starving and she was his ultimate meal. She squirmed, needing to get closer, and each movement brought her pelvis in line with his but not close enough. Using his foot, he kicked her leg wider and settled himself between her thighs, backing her up against the car. His hips nestled into hers, his solid erection hard and unyielding against her pulsing core. She was hot and ready and wanting him. And God, he felt good. She arched, and he rocked his hips, enflaming her need further. She moaned at the sensual assault on her and the intense sensations rocking her body. He nipped her lower lip and immediately soothed the sting with his tongue. “Remember that, Angel? How good we are together?” * * * * * * * * * * * LOVE, TUSSLES, AND TAKEDOWNS BY VIOLET DUKE She felt his eyes on her before she saw him. Hudson. Her body recognized the intensity of that stare as if it were hardwired to her directly. The guys were all but forgotten now. Hell, the whole room faded away like white noise as she watched Hudson climb into the ring. Lia enjoyed watching him move. There was nothing hurried about his motions; he always seemed relaxed and confident, efficient and ready. He wasn’t intimidating in that built-like-a-fridge way her friends who’d played football in college were. Rather, he was leaner. But infinitely harder. More etched out of wood than molded out of clay. As such, running into his chest was literally like running into a wall. A hard, sexy wall lined with bricks. “You’re killing me.” His voice simmered, soft and low, with a lazy smile curving his lips to show his words were more compliment than complaint. It took just one glance at the throbbing pulse in the muscular column of his neck for Lia to know he wasn’t nearly as unaffected as he sounded. Then all analysis of the man scattered when he went and peeled his shirt up over his head, sending those granite-etched muscles of his back rippling and expanding. His eyes tangled with hers as he toed off his shoes and immediately, Lia felt a surge of adrenaline override any female reaction she’d normally have to the sight. Because the man was doing something so much better than flirting. He was inviting her to play. No gloves. No strike pads. With a slow grin, she snagged her teeth around the Velcro bindings on her MMA gloves and started stripping off the boxing tape underneath as well. This was exactly the kind of sparring she’d been craving for weeks now. * * * * * * * * * * * ACTUALLY LOVE BY MELANIE SHAWN Jessie felt like her entire body was one raw, exposed erotic nerve that Zach’s words had just caressed. Her heart jolted and her pulse pounded with excitement. She wanted to do everything Zach had just mapped out. They just needed to get some ground rules in place first. “That’s what I wanted to talk about.” There was no way she could know what Zach had expected her to say, but she didn’t think that was it because he looked truly stunned by her admission. Always one to seize the moment, Jessie took advantage of this momentary shift of power to forge ahead. “I think we should do this. Just get it out of our systems.” With each word she spoke, she felt bolder and more empowered. This was happening on her terms. Jessie wasn’t just going to be an overwhelmed damsel. She was going to actively participate. “My attraction to you has been affecting my job, and that’s unacceptable. So I propose that we have sex. Tonight. Then tomorrow, everything goes back to normal. I think we should have a one-night stand, if you will, to alleviate the unbearable sexual tension that has built up between us.” Zach’s eyes were searching hers. She couldn’t tell if he thought she was crazy or onto something. Only one way to find out. “What do you think?” She swallowed tightly as the clothes he held in his hands dropped to the floor in a thud. Her heart pounded wildly in her chest. Adrenaline mixed with arousal coursed through her, and it was a heady combination. She could feel her legs shaking beneath her, and she knew that Zach wouldn’t have to lick her all over her body to achieve his objective. Jessie was almost certain that the second his tongue touched her flesh it would shoot her into the orgasmic hemisphere. “I think we’re on the same page. My version just sounded sexier.” The arrogance in his tone should have irritated her, but it didn’t. He was right. His version sounded a whole lot sexier. She was going to concede his point when she felt his large hands slide against her cheeks and frame the sides of her face. A delicious shudder infused her body. Needing to steady herself, she reached out, and as she placed her hands on his lean hips, his muscles jumped beneath her touch. Jessie closed her eyes and let herself feel the smoothness of his skin beneath her fingertips. Zach was hot, literally, to the touch. Heat radiated off the smooth skin of his sculpted body. Her fingers spread as she began exploring him, grazing over the hard planes of his abdomen. As she did, his towel slipped from his body. Zach’s warm breath fanned against her mouth a moment before his lips touched hers. His soft, firm lips kissed hers with authority and demand, sending a wave of passion flowing through her. First he concentrated his attention on her lower lip, then her upper, building a desire for more to rise up inside of her like a tsunami. Without hesitation, she parted her lips in an open invitation. His soft, velvety tongue swept inside her mouth. Jessie’s knees buckled beneath her at the seductive invasion. Her hands moved to his shoulders for support as his hands moved over her backside down to her thighs. Zach effortlessly lifted Jessie off the ground, her legs automatically wrapped around his waist as her arms encircled his neck. She whimpered with need as her core pressed against his rock-hard length. Through the damp fabric that covered her aching center, she could feel Zach’s erection pulsing with need which sent shockwaves of pleasure rioting through her. The sting of strong fingers dug into Jessie’s hips as Zach’s kisses swallowed her moans. Urgency consumed her as she rolled her hips against his engorged flesh. Her arms and legs clutched around Zach even tighter. She wanted to get closer to him. She needed to feel more of him. Fear bubbled up inside of her that more with Zach would never be enough. That her need for him was a bottomless pit deep in her soul. That desperate feeling just made her hold on to him even tighter and kiss him even deeper. Meet the authors:
Having sold more than 3 million books, NYT, USA Today & Publisher's Weekly Bestselling author BELLA ANDRE's novels have been #1 bestsellers all over the world. The Washington Post has called her "One of the top digital writers in America."
NYT & USA Today Bestselling and Award-Winning author MELISSA FOSTER writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance, romantic suspense, thrillers, and historical fiction. A former professor of English Education, VIOLET DUKE is a NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author of contemporary romance whose novels have been Top 10 bestsellers in the US and internationally. LAUREN BLAKELY writes sexy contemporary romance novels with heat, heart, and humor, and she has had 7 books on the NYT Bestseller list and 11 on the USA Today Bestseller list. NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author CARLY PHILLIPS has had a successful 15 year career with various New York publishing houses, publishing over 40 sexy contemporary romance novels. SAWYER BENNETT is the NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author of several contemporary romances including the Off Series, Legal Affairs Series, Last Call Series, and Cold Fury series. NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author ERIN NICHOLAS is the author of sexy contemporary romances. Her stories have been described as toe-curling, enchanting, steamy and fun. MELANIE SHAWN is the NYT & USA Today Bestselling writing team of sister duo Melanie and Shawna who have joined forces to create a world where true love and happily ever after always has a sexy twist! NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author, JESSIE EVANS, gave up a career as an international woman of mystery to write the sexy, contemporary romances she loves to read. She's married to the man of her dreams in a cottage in the jungle. CRISTA MCHUGH is a NYT & USA Today Bestselling Author of fantasy and romance with heroines who are smart, sexy, and anything but ordinary. She currently lives in the Audi-filled suburbs of Seattle with her husband and two children.
Give and Take
Stories from Beauville #1 By: Tigris Eden Releasing May 19th, 2015 Kat’s Kreative Ideas
Compromise is a word Annabelle Macon knows well. Sacrifices at home, in college and with her career, have all given her the tools to be the person she is. Now it seems she must also make concessions for her long-time love, Jackson Storme.
Six months into their relationship, and he’s already making unrealistic demands. With distance putting that much more of a strain on their relationship, how are the two ever going to manage? Old insecurities have a way of resurfacing, making Anna feel less than suitable for someone like Jackson. She’s worked hard to get to where she is now. Her life and her work are clashing, making matters worse. Bringing a whole new meaning to work/life balance. But Anna knows that with a little give and take everything will fall into place, regardless of the obstacles that may stand in her way.
Mom was on the porch watering her plants when we pulled up. She adores Jackson with every bone in her body.
“Ah, my sweet baby girl. Momma’s so glad you’re home.” She pulls me into her arms, hugging me tightly. “How’s my Anna?” Pearl Macon always calls me her baby girl. It is a comfort that makes me feel extra loved. “I’m good mama, how about you?” “Oh, you know me. Surviving. You’re Sheriff’s been moping around town. When you’re not around, he’s a surly one. Even tried to give your momma a ticket for speeding.” I mock gasp and turn to wink at Jackson who is still stuck in a rut. My mother looks over my shoulder and steps out of our hug so she can go to him. “Get over here and give mama Pearl some lovin’.” “Ma’am,” Jackson says, pulling her into a hug. It was mechanical. He’s rocked by the whole airport situation and I have no idea how to make it right. I am at a total lost. “I made some sun tea. Ya’ll come on inside and sit a bit. Then I’ll let you two go and break some walls down.” “Momma!” I scold. She’s never held back words and feels the need to over share, or in our case, insinuate we only want to have sex.
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Meet the author:
One of Tigris’ fondest memories, was in the sixth grade, when her teacher read her story, “The Case of The Missing Pepperoni”, out loud to the class. It was then she decided she wanted to be a writer when she grew up. But like all childhood dreams, reality has a way of crashing in and disrupting plans. But her imagination and the voices inside her head never stopped talking. Every dream she could remember was jotted down in her dream journals.
When she’s not writing Tigris marvel’s at life’s gifts. She likes to take pictures of beautiful things. She openly admits that what she may find beautiful another person might not, and she’s perfectly okay with that. She enjoys her music and doesn’t leave home without it. Long pillow conversations with LL about nonsensical things, and hanging out with her boys, when they deem her “cool enough.” Tigris is a military brat who’s done her fair share of traveling, thanks to her Army father. She’s married to the infamous LL and has three boys. She currently resides in Houston and is actively seeking a book-buddy for the end of the world. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
The lost cowboy…
Thunder Mountain Ranch was the only place cowboy Cade Gallagher had ever called home. But after he and Lexi Simmons broke each other's hearts, he left it behind, along with his foster family. Since then, Cade has drifted, looking for something—anything—to call home. Until a call from Lexi changes everything… Cade has been gone too long. His foster mother is hospitalized, and the ranch is in deep financial trouble. Yet even as his world crumbles, Cade's hunger for Lexi is almost as tangible as the taste of her lips and the way her body fits deliciously against his. It's bittersweet surrender. But Lexi isn't the girl she used to be, and she's determined to have the hot cowboy in her bed only if she keeps him out of her heart
There were so many elements I love about this story.
The ranch where they fostered the troubled boys, the love, care and guidance they have received at the Thunder Mountain Ranch was touching and admirable. The results were still showing in a way the former foster children rushed to the bedside at the hospital, respected the parents, and wanted to whatever they could for their benefit. Cade is a true horse whisperer, how he treated the horse, and Ringo, the cat, was a true witness to his character. Cade and Lexi have electricity, attraction, and the connection that was sizzling. They were so adorable, sexy, and charming together. I enjoyed the fact that they didn't go twenty rounds around each other, denying their feelings, but acted on them. The decision Cade makes towards the end was respectable, and admirable, even more so, considering the burning hot relationship they had. I am aware of the category length requirements, but the ending seemed a bit rushed, so much time and events were just skimmed over. But overall I enjoyed the story, and I am looking forward to more installments in this series. ~ Four Spoons
Wedding fever has hit the little town of Marietta…
And Kaitlin Shuller’s groom of her dreams is marrying someone else… her sister. Worst day ever. Her heart is broken, and all her carefully laid plans destroyed. Enter Beckett Larson, her older brother’s best friend and a very good bad decision. Beckett has spent his life trying to outrun his bad reputation, but everyone already thinks the worst of him, so when Kaitlin offers herself to him — virginity and all— he just can’t say no. But one night together has permanent consequences, and this time Beckett knows he can’t outrun his bad boy reputation. He’s determined to make Kaitlin his bride…even if he has to seduce her down the aisle.
The story takes off with the Kaitlin's obsession towards her sister's fiance. She has planned her whole life just to accommodate him, even though he has never done anything to encourage it. Sounded like.. A rather desperate situation.
Beckett has admired Kaitlin from afar for a long time, but never believed she could be his in any form. When Kaitlin decides to try to seduce him after the wedding, he accepts the chance, and the possibility to build something with her. All Beckett ever wanted, was to be accepted and loved. With no doubt, questions, or mistrust. He is easy to like, even with the bad boy reputation, his kindness, caring, and values are in the right place. Kaitlin is not so easy to like at all. She acts childishly, is a complete control freak, plans everything, and if not part of the plan, it is a mistake. She is afraid of life, living, and not pleasing everyone around her. She does come around a bit at the end, but it wasn't really enough for me. I think an epilogue would have been a great addition to this story. Luke, the brother, was just a jerk. There's no way around it. And there wasn't really any redemption for him. Life is not always what we expect it to be, the happiness is not necessarily found where we want it to be found. But that doesn't mean we should be afraid to embrace life with an open heart. Something Kaitlin had to learn, I'm just not 100% convinced, she learned her lesson ~ Three Spoons
Captured By You
Until You Find Me # 2 By: Amber Hart Releasing May 19, 2015 Loveswept: Flirt
In the passionate, gut-wrenching sequel to Amber Hart’s Until You Find Me, Raven and Jospin must fight for each other in a world where love is never safe—and power is deadly.
Raven, a college girl from Michigan, came to the jungles of Cameroon searching for closure. Falling for Jospin, a handsome, charismatic hunter with dark secrets of his own, was never part of the plan. But despite their differences, their attraction is addictive, as exhilarating and wild as the rain forest itself—and also as dangerous. For the sake of both their lives, their heated affair must remain a secret. Raven wants justice for her conservationist father’s death; to help her, Jospin must turn his back on his own father and the only life he has ever known. Together they risk being hunted by a band of ruthless poachers, but they take the chance anyway, working to bring down their enemies between each stolen kiss. But when one slip puts Raven’s life at stake, Jospin knows he must act. He has captured Raven’s heart—now can he set her free
I’m not used to being weak—maybe that’s the problem. Because the truth is that loving Raven makes me weak. No, that’s not right. Loving Raven in the jungle makes me weak. Yes, that’s the difference. She would never be accepted as my mate, because I was pruned to be alpha, and an American habitat worker would never do. She would be seen as vulnerable, as my weak spot. She doesn’t know this jungle. It’s not her home. I would have to pick a mate who comes from the land I’m protecting. It’s just the way things are.
But you’re not lined up to be alpha anymore. I’ve never loved someone enough to give up my whole life before. Maybe somewhere else, in a city with busy streets that don’t care, Raven and I could be accepted. Just a regular couple doing ordinary things. I don’t even know what constitutes normal outside these trees. That’s why I know the thought is absurd. I belong here. I need to find a way back to my tribe. Maybe I can rescue Raven and send her back home, out of this jungle, before I find them. I haven’t decided what to do with Clovis yet. I can’t kill him, not after he saved Raven’s life. He’s protecting her while I can’t, that much I know. I knew the second I looked into his eyes—hearing my father’s footsteps in the distance, coming for us— that he would keep her alive long enough for me to come for her. It makes me sick to think about what he’s said to the pack. Maybe that she’s his. That would be acceptable, since Clovis is not in line to be alpha. My stomach knots. The more I think about it, the more I realize that I will never be accepted back into my tribe, no matter what I do. Saving Raven stole that chance. The realization knocks the breath out of me. Pain like the deepest knife. I never wanted to leave them. I have to now. I’ll go somewhere else, outside this immediate territory. Somewhere people won’t know me as the heir to a poaching empire. A pocket of the rain forest where I can start over. Build a home and make weapons and live off the land. It’s all I’m good for now. If Raven doesn’t want to go home, I could bring her with me. Start a life. Or maybe not. She doesn’t love the forest like I do. She only came as a favor, to find answers about her father’s death. What happens now that she has them? Maybe we have an expiration date, Raven and I. Maybe she’ll leave this forest and I will have given up everything for a girl who was never really mine. Or maybe she’ll stay. Maybe she’ll learn the whisper of the trees and the ways of the animals. The possibilities are killing me. I maneuver down the tree until I’m out of the clouds and I can see into the forest underneath an awning of green leaves. I scan the forest floor. I check for danger: tribe members, other poachers, spies. There’s nothing. So I follow the bark all the way down the tree until my feet hit dirt. And then I run. I don’t have the luxury of time. Just a fast-paced run until my lungs feel stretched and my heart feels hollow. Until I forget everything but breathing. Meet the author:
Amber Hart is the author of Before You and Until You Find Me. She grew up in Orlando, Florida, and Atlanta, Georgia, and now resides on the Florida coastline with her family. When not reading, she can be found writing, daydreaming, or dipping her toes in the sand.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad—an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has the team captain packing his bags for greener pastures, but saying good-bye to the woman who’d captured his heart is easier said than done…
After being wounded in combat, Brandon Theroux lives every day like it’s his last. He never could have imagined that the sleek mechanics of his prosthetic leg would open so many doors, including minor celebrity status as a fitness model and a well-earned reputation as a rakish playboy. The only door it hasn’t opened is the one to Harper Johnson’s bedroom. Harper has too much self-respect to join the ranks of Brandon’s “carpe diem” conquests, but when she needs someone to keep the peace in the tavern she owns, Brandon offers his help—as long as she agrees to a very tempting trade. It isn’t long before the two realize that a deal struck between friends who can’t keep their hands off each other has the potential to be a whole lot hotter than either of them is prepared to handle…
I have to admit, I struggled with this book. To my surprise, I didn't like the ex-military, hockey playing hero. I thought Brandon was arrogant, full of himself, and not a very kind person. But I couldn't connect with Harper either, she seemed to be hiding from life, a bit bitchy with her attitude, and just not easy to relate to. The attraction between them seemed animalistic, and raw. But they didn't have a connection. And when they finally acted on this attraction, they admitted, it was the worst sexual experience in their lives. So they decided, they would be friends. I was nearly half way through this story, and I sat there, thinking, this is the most unromantic romance story I have ever read. And then the story had a twist, changing it, changing direction of it, and my opinion of it, and of the characters.
Suddenly, I was able to connect with them, they showed heart, care, kindness, support, and understanding of each other. They stood by each other in the darkest moment of Harper's life. The way Brandon was there for her - amazing. They cultivated, worked on, and developed a beautiful friendship, that turned them into soul mates, best friends, and soon they were each others rising sun and smile, their everything. But there were still things keeping them apart, making the last part of the story beautifully agonizing, as they both did some soul searching, and figured out what they want out of their lives. I am so glad, I stuck it out, didn't give up on Brandon and Harper, and read the story to the end, that ended up being rather inspirational, refining, uplifting, beautiful, and very unique ~ Four Spoons
Posing as a married couple to save the world was easy compared to the very real feelings between them...
As Bob and Lisa Sinclair, Omega Sector agents Evan Karcz and Juliet Branson were a formidable couple--until a brutal attack left Juliet traumatized. But with a powerful crime boss selling military secrets, the safety of millions depends on the undercover operatives. It's up to Evan to rehabilitate Juliet...and not fail her as he did on the mission that still haunts him. Evan's strategy is to be near Juliet night and day to practice posing as a loving couple. But soon he realizes there's a sizzling passion between them. And it's being threatened by forces stronger than they ever realized. With a killer stalking Lisa Sinclair, her "husband" knows he'd risk his cover--and his life--to protect her. Review:
Vivid and intense action mixed with red-hot romance, that left me breathless and there might have been some tears.
I could sense the darkness and despair of Juliet, the emotions shadowing and tormenting her, after the past opp ending terribly. The self-doubt, angst, and fear constantly present with her. Evan's guilt and regret are palpable, with the feelings of failure, and responsibility of the attack towards Juliet. It doesn't take long, when the new operation starts, that the intensity and danger of the work Omega Sector does, step in. The action is thrilling, the threats to their lives real, and the risk of exposure constant. Not only do they have to deal with the dangerous opp at hand, but the monsters of Juliet's past were taunting her with threatening emails, bringing even more jeopardy to the already tense situation. The unity, support, teamwork and protectiveness of the family is a delight. I loved visiting with the siblings from the previous books in the series. The connection between Evan and Juliet is beautiful, tender, and fragile. The trust, devotion, kindness and care are adorable, the zeal and fervor of their passion unmistakable. I loved to see the development in Juliet, as she leaves the nightmares of her past, and finds her inner agent again, one step at the time. The story has a beautifully crafted plot, where all the pieces of the puzzle fit into the place at the end, with elements that keeps the reader guessing. The tension in the story is built up brilliantly, and the attraction and passion between Evan and Juliet is constant smoldering fire, that burst into flames at the right moments. The images of the event are vividly painted, lively in the mind of a reader. The final climax of the story took my breath away, and yes, there were tears in my eyes. Can't wait for the next installment of the series, Dylan's story, thankfully out already next month. All the stories in the Omega Sector are easily read as stand alone novels, but I think you will get more out of the story, if you have read the previous ones. Untraceable is another home run from Janie Crouch, truly recommend for all romantic suspense fans ~ Five Spoons!! Meet the author:
Janie Crouch is an author for Harlequin Intrigue. Her debut novel PRIMAL INSTINCT was nominated for a 2014 Reviewer's Choice Award by RT (Romantic Times) Magazine. Her Omega Sector series is available now!
Janie loves to read – almost exclusively romance – and has been doing so since middle school. She learned to love Harlequin (Mills & Boon) Romances when she lived in Wales, UK as a preteen, then moved on to a passion for romantic suspense as an adult. Her favorite authors include: Linda Howard, Nora Roberts, and Elizabeth Lowell. Janie recently relocated with her hubby and four kids to Germany (due to her husband's job for support of the U.S. Military), after living in Virginia for nearly 20 years. When she’s not listening to the voices in her head (and even when she is), she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, movie-watching, knitting and adventure (obstacle) racing. Janie completed an Ironman Triathlon in 2014. Most of all she loves to laugh and joke and count her blessings. And they are many. Author links: Goodreads Amazon Facebook Twitter Webpage
How to unravel your straightlaced lover…
Gabe Nelson would be a great district attorney, but his public image is too boring to get voters' attention. Tattoo artist Devin Padilla can help him show off his fun, sexy side, but she needs something in return—his legal expertise to track down her missing brother. She's not Gabe's type, but they can't keep their hands off each other, whether it's good for his image or not. At first, Devin thinks she got the easy end of the bargain. Gabe's the sexiest stuffed shirt in Manhattan, and his kisses practically set her on fire. But every deal has its fine print. As their relationship goes from business to pleasure, Devin realizes this one won't cost her soul…it'll just steal her heart. Review
Gabe might be a bit straight-laced, but he is also thoughtful, kind, caring, protective, hot man in a suit and glasses! If that is not swoon worthy, nothing is.
Devin is survivor, in all sense of the word. She can take care of herself, she can talk to and relate to people, she's sassy, and smart, with a big heart, and lots of piercings and tattoos. The connection they have is fragile, and sizzling hot. But Gabe wants more than just a physical relationship, and the way he goes to romance Devin, is truly adorable. Devin is supposed to loosen up Gabe for the election, but soon she realizes, that there's not much that needs changing. The story has lots of great, smart, and entertaining dialog, that moves the story nicely along, and made me laugh out loud several times, and smile for the rest of the time. There's several sub-plots in the tale, that gives the story more layers, that brings Devin and Gabe closer together, and shows how much they have in common. Witty, lively and enjoyable story with rather high heat level ~ Four Spoons!
Memories of rescuing her fueled his dreams. Seeing her again fueled his desire.
Far from the mountains of Afghanistan, Abby Stewart found solace in the wild country of western Colorado. But after finishing one war, she was caught in another. In securing the crime scene, Lieutenant Michael Dance was more surprised to see Abby than the dead body. How could he forget her face after caring for her wounds and saving her life? And yet she didn't remember him at all. That wouldn't stop him from embarking on a high stakes investigation leading to much worse than murder. And if it helped jog Abby's memory and soften her toward him, he wouldn't leave her side until she was safe once more Review:
The ease and lively beginning of the story, while Abby is collecting plants for her science project, soon turns into tension and fear, when suspicious characters invade her peaceful place at the national park. With Abby's memories and flashbacks of the war, the tension rises even more.
It is a captivating start for the book, as the plot thickens, and the beauty and peace of the national park, turns into a dangerous crime scene. Abby and Michael have a unique connection, since he saved her life in Afghanistan, even though Abby has no recollection of it. Michael, a former PJ, is a true hero. He is intense, protective, committed to his job to hold the law, and help the people. He is easy to like, and admire. His attraction, and connection, to Abby is immediate, and he is not hiding it. Abby is still getting used to her life after the injury in the war. The scar on her face changed all her future plans, and she seems a bit bitter about it. She is high strung, stubborn, and short tempered at first, and it took a while to warm up to her. The story moves on smoothly, as the danger comes close to Abby repeatedly. While lost in the forest, doing their best to stay alive, and hidden from the criminals, Michael and Abby take care of the baby trusted with them, and learn more about each other, learn to trust each other, and survive in a primitive way. The story is alluring, and kept me up late reading it. I still had some questions at the end of the book, but this being the book I in a new series, maybe the answers are more forthcoming in future installments of the series. But for the Guardian ~ Four Spoons!
Witches Be Burned
Magic & Mayhem # 2 By: Stacey Kennedy Releasing May 19th, 2015 Loveswept
In Stacey Kennedy’s steamy paranormal romance novel, a rookie guardian sworn to combat the undead risks life and love in a world of violence, witchcraft, and seduction.
Nexi Jones has lost her family, she’s been stripped of her guardian duties, and she’s still learning the ins and outs of white magic. At least she has Kyden, the smoldering hot elite guardian who’s been there for her every step of the way. But just as Nexi completes her training, tragedy strikes the Otherworld when a fellow guardian is murdered by a group of rogue vampires. Ready or not, she and Kyden trek into the Earthworld to hunt down a killer—and Nexi alone will be put to the ultimate test. Although Kyden knows that Nexi must fight her own battles, his guardian instincts are raging as he struggles to keep her close. The ruthlessness of these vampires is like nothing he’s ever seen. And at their helm is the Black Witch Astoria, a demon with one burning desire: to shed Nexi’s blood in the name of vengeance. What troubles Kyden even more, though, is the warlock who covets Nexi’s heart. Let the devil do his worst . . . all Kyden can do is love and protect Nexi until his last breath.
His eyes blazed, red-hot. “You could die.”
“You’re right, I could, and so could you.” She softened her voice, hoping to improve his mood. “There’s always the possibility of that, but I can’t live in fear.” A pause. Then, “You make me live in fear.” The haunted look crossing his face flooded her with a coldness that neither Kyden nor the warm bathwater could ease. Lazarus had created this—and she wished she would’ve made his death more painful, or at least longer than the few seconds it took her to kill him with her magic. “I can’t stay in the Otherworld forever and do nothing,” she admitted to him, hoping honesty would help him understand her position. “It feels good to finally get back out there—to be doing something other than mourning everyone I lost. Just as you take pride in working for the Council, so do I.” The line between his brows deepened, the refusal right there on his lips, but she added for good measure, “I need you to support me, not grumble at me.” More silence. Then, “I dislike these human conversations you subject me to. It’s ridiculous.” She shrugged, not knowing what else to do. What could she say? She had been raised human. In the Otherworld, she’d noticed that some of the men were still stuck in the middle ages. They liked beating their chests and protecting what was theirs or mine, as they called it. Well, Nexi lived in modern times, and she would make damn sure no one forgot that fact. Her adoptive mortal parents hadn’t raised her to sit down and shut up, they’d raised her to stand up and fight. Kyden stared at her. Right through her. Right into the depths of her soul. “That’s what you need of me? To support you?” “Yes, that’s what I want.” Then she threw on the big finale that would push him past his domineering ways. “That’s what would make me happy.” With his eyes instantly amused, he snorted a laugh. “You are too damn smart for your own good. You know this, right?” At her shameless grin and nod, he added, “Promise me this: If we fight, we fight together as we did tonight. Don’t be a hero. Don’t save someone else to the point that it puts you in grave danger. Promise me that will you think of your life before anyone else’s.” She rolled her eyes, fully understanding—she often acted to save the ones she loved before she saved herself. But she was a guardian and she loved people, and that included being a brash fool at times in the fight against evil. “I promise I won’t put myself in unnecessary danger.” His features went all stormy in the way they did when he was in Elite Guardian mode. “That’s not good enough.” “Okay,” she said, rethinking, and quickly added, “I promise not to think I’m invincible. Plus, I won’t go jumping into a dangerous case on my own and will wait for backup. Better?” “Yes,” he replied with a nod, shifting himself beneath her and sending the bubbles popping around them. “That will do.” It took only a split second to realize that the position he was getting himself into would take her to places that didn’t involve talking. All the tension vanished from his expression in a millisecond and his grin turned downright sinful, making her ache between her thighs. The warmth of the water around her embraced her as he trailed his hands along her back and said, “Now, enough talking about how the fact that I want to keep you safe is a bad thing. Come here. I must punish you.” Meet the author
Stacey Kennedy is the USA Today bestselling author of the Club Sin series. Growing up, Stacey’s mind wandered the path less traveled, and that path most often led to love. She has always broken rules and she continues to feed off emotion—always staying true to her heart. Those traits are now the bones of her stories. She lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who puts any of the heroes in her books to shame, and their two young children. If she’s not on Mom duty or plugging away at a new story, you’ll find Stacey camping in the summer, hibernating in the winter, and obsessing over Penny Dreadful, Game of Thrones, and Sons of Anarchy.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
For Your Love
Blessings # 6 By: Beverly Jenkins Releasing April 28th, 2015 William Morrow
NAACP nominee and bestselling author Beverly Jenkins returns to Henry Adams, Kansas-an unforgettable place that anyone would want to call home-with a story of family, friends, and the powerful forces from our past that can irrevocably shape our future.
Mayor Trent July and his wife Lily are enjoying life as newlyweds and embracing the challenges and joys that come with being adoptive parents to two wonderful boys. But being a father has inevitably forced him to think about his own birth mother. Raised by his grandmother Tamar—and in many ways the good people of Henry Adams—Trent was blessed with a childhood full of love. But now he can’t help wondering what happened to the scared teenage girl who gave birth to him. And questions that he’s never voiced are now begging to be answered: Who was she? Is she still alive? Why didn’t she want him? Trent has always believed no good comes from dwelling on the past, especially when you have a loving family, a strong community, and folks who depend on him. But when the past comes to Henry Adams, Trent has no choice but to face it—and the woman who left him behind. The truth will shake his very being and everything he thought he knew about life, love, and the bonds that hold families together…yet can also tear them apart. Review
What a story of celebration of life, love and family! I was totally submerged in the story, and couldn't get enough of this small town and the lively characters living there.
Trent and Lily seems to have the perfect family. Yes, there are ups and downs as in any family unit, but they dealt with all that life gives with lots of love, acceptance, and support for each other. And so behaves the whole town, that seems to be founded on love, and family values. A town where everyone is taken care of, protected, and accepted as they are. They know all about each others business, and are not shy to step in, and meddle when they think it is necessary. There's not a one secret in town, they know everything there is to know about each other. They celebrate and embrace the different cultures they represent, and are not afraid to ask questions for better understanding. They seem to have specialized adopting, foster care children, and giving them a loving, stable homes. The heartbreak and tears that came from some of the meetings with the biological parents was touching. The way the whole town was operated was admirable. Their women are strong, and celebrated, their men are supportive, proud of them, and loving. The bonds of brotherhood in the family are tender and somehow fragile. The growing pains of the children familiar and wistful. Don't get me wrong, there's drama and trouble in this little town in Kansas as well. And when the high school rivals meet after 45 years, the drama turns out into a bit of a circus, that made me shake my head and laugh. This story is written with love, respect, and warmth, celebrating life and all that is good in it. It encourages us to be more and give more to others around us. It has heartbreak and tears, but also healing, and smiles. Amazing tale, all around ~ Five Spoons Meet the author:
Ms. Jenkins is the nation's premier writer of African American historical romance fiction and specializes in 19th century African American life. She has over thirty published novels to date.
She has received numerous awards, including: five Waldenbooks/Borders Group Best Sellers Awards; two Career Achievement Awards and a Pioneer Award from Romantic Times Magazine; a Golden Pen Award from the Black Writer's Guild, and in 1999 was named one of the Top Fifty Favorite African-American writers of the 20th Century by AABLC, the nation's largest on-line African-American book club. She has also been featured in many national publications, including the Wall Street Journal, People Magazine, Dallas Morning News and Vibe Magazine. She has lectured and given talks at such prestigious universities as Oberlin University, the University of Illinois, and Princeton. She speaks widely on both romance and 19th century African-American history and was the 2014 featured speaker for the W.W. Law Lecture Series sponsored by the Savannah Black Heritage Festival. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Goodreads |