BEAUTY AND THE…MAN WHO'LL NEVER LET HER GO
On paper, this should have been the perfect arrangement. Elise Bravo needed a job, desperately. And soldier turned thriller writer Jed Walsh burned through—almost literally, it turned out—assistants like hellfire through brimstone. Turned out he had some…unusual work habits to go along with his giant talent and ego. He threw knives to relax. He cleaned his guns as he acted out scenes. And more than anything, he hated cats… Enter Elise, crack typist, master plotter and perfect for the live-in job in every way but one…two if you count Mr. Wiggles, her furry companion. For though Jed had sworn he would never get "involved" with a woman who worked for him, it took only a day or two with the perfectly professional, pencil skirt–wearing Bravo beauty to realize that he needed to keep Elise—in his bed, in his house and in his life. And the first step was building Mr. Wiggles a catio—because maybe there was more than one way for Jed to make Elise his.
An adorable story, with characters that brought light and spice to the basic romance storyline, and a cat that stole my heart.
I liked both Elise and Jed, they had their quirky and demanding personalities, either of them an easy person to be around. Yet they had endearing traits in their personalities, that won me over. Jed was such a caveman at times, I was shaking my head thinking you didn't just say/do that. There were couple times that his forceful behavior actually bothered me for a minute until he redeemed himself with further actions. But Jed has a heart of gold, such a good intensions. He is generous, kind, and sexy as one can be under all the gruff. Elise, I gather she used to be a 'mean girl' in her teenage years. That was not the name she was called in the book, but I made a conclusion. She is very determined and strong person, that for a great match to Jed. And I loved them together, the chemistry was amazing, they work together so effortlessly, and were able to open up and trust the other. I felt the story lead heavily with the main characters, so their development, growth, finding their way with life and in the relationship was excellent and evident. There's galore of secondary characters in the story, but when there are over 40 books in the series, that is to be expected. The book can be easily read as a stand-alone, even though there are several references to the previous couples in the series. And Wigs, the cat, yes, he stole my heart completely, moreover him and Jed together. The captivating and compelling cast of characters, that are easy to relate to and enjoy their company, give this classic romance story plot spice and fire. ~ Four Spoons
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The return of the wife he thought was lost and a baby he never knew existed will make this a Christmas to remember…
Captain Connor McGinnis has seen a ghost. Staring at a surveillance photo of a Kaziri immigrant, there can be no mistaking that the starkly beautiful—and visibly pregnant—woman in a head scarf is his wife, Risa. The woman he presumed was dead after her plane crashed into the ocean. Risa McGinnis, relocated by the CIA when they learned of a price on her head, has settled into the guise of a widowed immigrant. Confronting Connor again resurrects sweet memories and a burning passion. But until this unknown enemy is captured, Risa must focus more on Connor's protection than on their attraction. After all, the strength of her marriage—and the safety of her baby—depends on it…
A breathtaking thrill ride, with conspiracy theories, espionage, cover-up blowing on your face, and a baby on its way all happening to a lady who was supposedly dead.
There was so much happening in this story it could have been overwhelming yet it all fit into the tale smoothly, the clues opening up like a ball of wool unraveling. The tension was high through the story, if not from the suspense and ever-present danger and the fear for their lives, then from the fact of Risa's resurrection from death, and the baby to be born any day now. I expected that the cover up for Risa's death would have had more center role in the story, that it would have been dealt with more details, more process, more in-depth. But both, or all characters seemed to accept the fact that Risa was alive rather easily, without too much angst and arguments. Of course, they didn't have much time to panic about anything since there were cruel culprits on their heels, ready to devastating annihilation to get what they wanted - Risa's death. There were times when the action was so fierce, I was holding my breath, waiting to see what happens. The spy world and government security agencies were a tangled web, trust was a rare commodity, anything goes to hide your own identity, and death was the ultimate sacrifice. It seems there's a lot of background information from the previous series that all comes together here and now. I felt like I was missing some information, even thought a lot was revealed when it came to the inter-agency relationships and operations. No, that's wrong, all we needed to know was there, just at times I started to wonder the story behind the secondary characters and their loved ones. And since everyone in this story was on 'need-to-know' basis... The romance was heartachingly bitter-sweet, yet filled with hope and a wishful prospect of better tomorrows. I believe this will be an exhilarating and dramatic series, where anything can be expected when it comes to operations and force of action. Can't wait for more! ~ Four Spoons
The Wallflower Weddings Series
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone, Daring Miss Danvers, Winning Miss Wakefield and Finding Miss McFarland Books #0.5 - 3 By: Vivienne Lorret Avon
Tempting Mr. Weatherstone
Penelope Rutledge longs for passion, but only with the man of her dreams: the brilliant, dashing Ethan Weatherstone. If only her longtime neighbor would open his eyes and realize how much she loves him. If only they weren’t best friends with so much at stake. Penelope knows her future - and their friendship - is in her hands, but is she willing to take the biggest risk of all on the man she loves? If it were up to Ethan, life and love would be as predictable as the figures in his ledgers - certainly nothing like the adventures Penelope longs for. Yet his childhood friend has grown into a beautiful, feisty woman blissfully unaware of the danger she causes when near. Ethan knows he must save Penelope-and her reputation...but can he save himself from the temptation of her lips?
Ethan moved the quill off to the side, hovering over the blotter so the ink wouldn’t spot the ledger. He regarded Pen with a speculative lift of his brow. Had there ever been a time when she allowed him to ignore her?
As if unaware of this simple fact, she stared back at him, waiting for a response. He obliged her, repeating her ridiculous statement back to her, verbatim—all accept for the bit about the natives. “You are going to hire a coach to take you as far away from here as possible. Quite possibly, you will never return. You might find yourself on the continent or on some sailing vessel—Though I might add that finding yourself in another place suggests a shock of some sort. In other words, a complete lack of planning.” She let out a huff and crossed her slender arms, the action causing her woolen shawl to bunch over her breasts. “Oh, why do I even bother?” “Haven’t the faintest.” This time, Penelope glared at him, her nose wrinkling in a way that drew his attention to her freckles. He liked her freckles. They were balanced and orderly—four on the left and four on the right. It was ironic that eight such sensible freckles could be on someone so lacking in sensibility.
Daring Miss Danvers
It’s all fun and games...until someone falls in love. Oliver Goswick, Viscount Rathburn, needs money and soon. With time ticking away and his inheritance held hostage until he’s properly wed, Rathburn’s slim options point to just one solution: a mock courtship. In need of the perfect bride, he knows of only one candidate: his best friend’s wallflower sister. The plan seems flawless; except for just one thing...he can’t help falling in love with her. Poised, polished Emma Danvers knows nothing good can come of Rathburn’s scheme. Spending the next two months engaged in a mock courtship is not what she’d imagined for her final season. Yet, charmed by his roguish ways and the inexplicable hammering he causes in her heart, she accepts his challenge. For Emma, keeping the secret seems easy when it was just a game... but as Rathburn begins to see past her reserved exterior to the passionate woman within, the risk of losing her heart becomes all too real.
Winning Miss Wakefield
She’s got nothing left to lose… With her fiancé suddenly engaged to another and her reputation in tatters, Merribeth Wakefield needs a bold plan to reclaim her life. She must be brave. Confident. She must… kiss a rake? The suggestion is ludicrous! Yet, when Merribeth finds herself alone with the dark and brooding Lord Knightswold, suddenly the plan doesn’t seem so farfetched. So she does something she never thought she’d do—she kisses him. But he has everything to gain… The Marquess of Knightswold—Bane to most—has no use for the affections of women. Well, none lasting longer than a single night. A plot for revenge weighs heavy on his mind, leaving no room for romance. So, when a shy, witty miss borrows a kiss from him in a darkened room, everything he thought he knew about innocent debutants vanishes along with her. Yet when a twist of fate brings Merribeth within Bane’s grasp, he’ll have to resist her charms—or risk losing everything—for the sake of his heart.
Finding Miss McFarland
Delaney McFarland is on the hunt for a husband—preferably one who needs her embarrassingly large dowry more than a dutiful wife. After the unspeakable incident at her debut, Delaney knows marrying for love is off the table, but a marriage of convenience—one that leaves her free to live the life she chooses—is the next best thing, never mind what that arrogant, devilishly handsome Mr. Croft thinks. Delaney plans to marry for money … or not at all. Ever since the fiery redhead burst into his life—in a most memorable way—Griffin Croft hasn't been able to get Miss McFarland out of his mind. Now, with the maddening woman determined to hand over her fortune to a rake, Griffin knows he must step in. He must help her. He must not kiss her. But when Griffin's noble intentions flee in a moment of unexpected passion, his true course becomes clear: tame Delaney's wild heart and save her from a fate worse than death … a life without love.
USA Today bestselling author, VIVIENNE LORRET loves romance novels, her pink laptop, her husband, and her two sons (not necessarily in that order … but there are days). Transforming copious amounts of tea into words, she is an Avon Impulse author of works including: Tempting Mr. Weatherstone, The Wallflower Wedding Series, The Rakes of Fallow Hall Series, The Duke’s Christmas Wish, and the Season’s Original Series.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Q: Vivienne, where had you gotten the idea for the Wallflower Weddings Series? Strangely enough, the Wallflower Wedding Series began as an afterthought. I wrote a Christmas novella (Tempting Mr. Weatherstone) and submitted it to an Avon “call for submissions.” When the novella was well received, my editor at the time suggested that I create a spin-off. I was so excited about the opportunity! Since Ethan and Penelope’s story lacked unmarried sub characters, however, I had my work cut out for me. But then inspiration struck! I remembered that, in Tempting, Penelope enjoyed embroidery. So I gave her a circle of friends who shared that interest. Adding in a few details here and there… and voila, the Wallflower Wedding Series was born. Q: Which title or couple was the easiest to write and which gave you the most trouble? Hmm… This is a tough question. Each story had its share of smooth sailing, as well as bumpy roads. I practically held my breath the whole time while writing Emma and Oliver’s slow, burgeoning love. I was as eager for them to realize it as, I imagine, they were. I blushed when Merribeth “borrowed” that kiss from the deliciously naughty Bane. And I laughed (horrible of me, I know) during Delaney’s incident at her debut, all over Griffin’s shoes. What gave me the most trouble for each book was reaching the end and knowing that I had to say goodbye. I suppose that’s why I proposed the Rakes of Fallow Hall Series, so that I could check up on them. In fact, I’ll tell you a secret. I even added a mention of Bane in my upcoming novel, WHEN A MARQUESS LOVES A WOMAN. Q: Which heroine do you feel most closely relates to your personality? Out of the Wallflowers, I’d have to say that I relate to Delaney McFarland. Sadly, we’re both socially awkward. In fact, the beginning of her story—the incident at her debut—is one of my own fears. Thankfully, I have never cast up my accounts in public (and knock on wood that it never happens), but there’s always that fear when facing a crowd. I guess you could say that writers have secret ways of facing our fears by forcing our characters to live them out. It’s good for us, but not-so-good for our characters. On the bright side, I think Delaney handled the incident with a strength of character that even surprised me. Q: What is one of the most interesting things that you have learned from researching for your historicals? I just love research! Discovering little historical tidbits feeds my inner nerd. I can’t begin to tell you how tired my family is of hearing “Guess what I learned today?” So much eye rolling! But one thing, in particular, I found fascinating came from an 1800s play (the title of which I have presently forgotten). The main character went into a taproom and ordered his food and drink “hot and hot.” Instantly, I wondered what that meant. Did he want hot ale, too? Was this a popular figure of speech? Inquiring minds… I searched online and found nothing. I went to the library database and found nothing. Then I asked my friend and local research librarian, but she didn’t know either. She came up with the same results that I had. However, she had a secret weapon that I didn’t have—connections. She knew a food historian. This “hot and hot” became such a puzzle for all of us that, after compiling research, the food historian blogged about her findings. So cool! In the end, she found that asking for your food and drink to come “hot and hot,” meant that you wanted everything when it was ready. No waiting. In other words, bring the ale now. And if the broth is done, then bring it to me, as well, while the kitchen prepares my leg o’ mutton, aspic and eggs. Um… yum? Or, to put it in a modern context… If you make pancakes in a skillet, one by one, then instead of waiting to compile a short stack for your family, you’d serve each steaming flapjack—butter melting, syrup oozing—one at a time, and fork at the ready. So, the next time you’re at IHOP, pound your fist on the table hard enough to jangle the silverware, and tell the server that you want your rasher of bacon, scrambled eggs and each fluffy pancake “hot and hot”… because you’re worth it. ; ) Q: What is your favorite part of writing historical romances? All of it. I love the rules of society (and breaking them). I love the layers of clothing, and how even removing a glove can be racy. I love the fact that they didn’t have immediate knowledge of a potential scandal. There’s so much that can be done with slow-moving information. And on the flip-side, so much can happen when news or rumors spread like wildfire. It’s fun playing with the differences. Also, as I mentioned before, I love the research and discovering new-to-me tidbits of history. I often like to imagine how my current character would have reacted to the latest scientific invention, or how they felt about their changing world. Q: What are you currently working on? I’m currently working on a proposal for a potential new series. At this time, I can’t go into detail, but I can tell you that I’m having a lot of fun with this new set of characters. Also in the works, is a novella that will finish the Season’s Original Series and answer some important questions, such as: · Will the evil Miss Leeds and Miss Ashbury get what’s coming to them? · Will the Fates smile upon the overlooked but handsome Viscount Ellery? · Will Gemma Desmond escape ruination after her father’s misdeeds? Are you curious, too? Thank you for having me here today! I wake up each morning, incredibly thankful that I’ve had the opportunity to write these stories. But even more than that, I feel immensely blessed to have readers who have enjoyed them. Warm wishes and happy reading! Vivienne
MISSING MEMORIES
When a John Doe washes up on the shores of Calico Bay, no one knows who he is—including him. But one thing's instantly clear to deputy sheriff Audrey Martin: the man's marked for murder. And she's the only one who can protect him from the assassins who lurk at every turn. The arrival of a team of men claiming he's Canadian Border Services officer Nathanial Longhorn only further complicates the matter. As his memories slowly start drifting back, Nathanial's determined to work with Audrey to uncover who wants him dead and why. But he's tangled in something that threatens to submerge them both. And unless Audrey can help him figure out what, this Christmas might be their last.
I love it when I get a story in my hands, that pulls me in from the first page, and makes me forget everything else I was supposed to do while I'm flipping the pages as fast as I can. Identity Unknown was that to me, and I enjoyed every moment of it.
The suspense and action are explosive in the story. The constant fear and danger in the air, lift the tension high, and the amnesia makes it so intense, it is nearly tangible. The fact that there are very few whom Audrey and Nathanial can trust tightens the bind in-between them. Audrey has a bit of a chip on her shoulder about being a female in the force, for a good reason. As the story unfolds, her power struggles with Nathanial turns nearly comical, they both see the humor in the situations, when it is appropriate. I liked them together, the connection was special, the attraction was evident, but most of all, they were able to share their faith in God together, praying together and for each other, relying on Him to guide and protect when facing the danger. The feelings between them were instantaneous and only grew as the time passed. The epilog making a perfect ending, giving more believability to the instant feelings they had. The secondary characters, many known from the previous books in the series, rest family, and friends, were likable and enjoyable. The unknown threat, the constant menace, the uneasiness of the amnesia, the delightful romance, with bits of humor, and lots of faith made this story delightful and entertaining, impossible to put down ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
BLUE SATIN SASHES
Favorite Things Trilogy #2
Millenia Black
Releasing November 28th, 2016
From the #1 bestselling author of The Great Pretender comes the highly anticipated second book in the captivating Favorite Things TrilogyâBlue Satin Sashes is a searing story of passion, desperation and vengeanceâ¦
What happens when you fall in love with someone else?
Paris, France. Corporate brand designer Michael Frost knows heâs found a once in a lifetime love in professional illustrator Priscilla Bauer, the granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood iconâbut Michael must now cross an ocean of regrets to repair damage inflicted by his heartbroken high school sweetheart Amber Holland, whose increasingly extreme attempts at sabotage may know no boundsâ¦
How will she win? How will she lose?
Brave the razor-sharp edges of an intensely hot love triangle as Michael and Priscilla discover the depths of Amberâs passion ultimately rivals their own.
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RAINDROPS ON ROSES
Favorite Things Trilogy #1
Millenia Black
Released Nov 18th, 2014
What happens when his ex just won't let go?
Mayfair Island, Florida. Grief-stricken after the sudden loss of her beloved grandmother, an enduring but reclusive Hollywood icon, young Priscilla Bauer finds herself adrift and looking to find solace in the arms of her vast inheritance, when she meets the kind and considerate corporate brand designer, Michael Frostâa drop dead gorgeous beacon of light in her all too dark night. Falling hard and falling fast, Priscilla has no idea sheâs stepped into dangerous territory...someone else has already branded Michael Frost her very ownâwith no intention of letting him go! Love. Loss. Jealousy. Vengeance. Passions are high but bitter vengeance gets even higher in this razor-sharp love triangle you won't forget! With Raindrops on Roses, the captivating Favorite Things Trilogy takes flight!
Praise for Millenia Black
"Intensely intriguing and deeply riveting, Black's latest is a first-rate page-turner that will draw you in from the very beginning and never let go." âSheri Melnick, RT Book Reviews "Ms. Black is a talented writer, and I can't wait to read many more of her books..." âCarol Ann Culbert Johnson, MyShelf.com "Millenia Black is a mistress at neatly laying out each part of the story, like building an elaborate building that forms a fascinating whole. She clearly and succinctly draws verbal pictures of each character and their interrelationships with each other. It is masterful..." âJeri Neal, The Romance Reader's Connection
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No one does family and relationship drama quite like bestselling author Millenia Black! Heralded as a double life and relationship expert, she's been a featured guest on radio shows across the country, discussing the 7 Smoke Signals Your Man is Living a Double Life.
Millenia lives in Florida where she's currently unmarried and has never dated anyone living a double life...
She thinks.
Young Adult Contemporary Date Published: July 14, 2016
When is the price too high, even for true love?
4Ever Girl, Book Two in the Stratford High Series, inspired by Shakespeare’s controversial comedy, The Merchant of Venice. Benji Merchant, has only one desire – to take the beautiful and spirited, Portia Belmont, to their senior prom. But first, Benji must win her heart. He enlists the help of his twin sister, Toni Merchant, in a wild scheme to impress Portia. Toni has reservations, especially when she learns that her brother’s plan involves the elusive tattoo artist, Shiloh Lender. Shiloh agrees to help Benji, but only if Toni concedes to Shiloh’s unbelievable terms. Will Toni accept the challenge and support her brother in his quest for Portia’s love? Or will Toni refuse Shiloh’s conditions and let her brother down? TONI MERCHANT Benji had found a prime parking spot right in front of the Venetian D’Lights Tattoo Emporium. No big surprise, though, considering that it was four o’clock on a Thursday. Who got inked on a mid-week afternoon? I stood on the sidewalk and studied the mural painted on the front glass window of our town’s only tattoo parlor. An almost life-size gondolier was poised on the rear of a gondola, his mouth open as though he were singing. In the background, the painted lights of Venice seemed to be flickering with life. The artistic details were surreal, from the intricate arches on the canal bridge to the tiniest wrinkles on the gondolier’s hands. And the colors! The vivid red of his shirt, the murky blue-green of the water, the pearly white of the marble columns on the buildings. On a block full of auto part stores and used car lots, this mural sparkled with energy. It drew me into the scene like a kind of Italian siren song.
“Oh, now it makes sense.” Benji’s voice broke the enchantment. I was once again on the sidewalk, watching him point to some lettering stenciled on the glass in the lower right-hand corner of the window.
Owner, Dominique Lender. Benji nodded. “Shiloh’s mom is the D in the D’Lights.” “So glad you figured that out.” I grabbed him by the hood of his hoodie. “Let’s get this over with. You first.” I opened the front door and pushed him inside. A guitar strummed and then a deep tenor’s voice belted out, “O Sole Mio.” Shiloh sat at a rectangular folding table near a pair of red leather couches, penciling something in a well-worn sketchbook. He looked up. “Benj—” Shiloh froze when his eyes fell on me. I stepped inside, letting the door close behind me. As soon as the latch caught, the singing stopped. “What was that?” “Has to be the doorbell,” Benji said. “Beats a foghorn.” He and Shiloh both grinned. “Inside joke?” I asked. They nodded. “Don’t bother to explain.” I stood for a moment, trying to take in this eclectic shop. The emporium resembled a beauty salon with three stations, each with a black leather swivel chair that had extension arms, probably used by patrons to rest their limbs during the tattoo process. Each station had a three-tiered steel cart on wheels, the cart shelves covered with small bottles of ink, some in bright neon colors. There were boxes of disposable gloves, disposable face masks, needles, cotton pads, spray bottles, assorted tubes of lotions. Inking machines, the size and shape of sci-fi ray guns, were scattered about the counters in front of the swivel chairs. A medicinal smell hung in the air like the faint odor of rubbing alcohol. Airbrushed artwork of mythological beasts and fanciful flying creatures decorated the canary- yellow walls. The floor was tiled in a retro black-and-white-checkered pattern that resembled a 50’s diner. “Nice.” I glanced back at Shiloh. “Very chic.” And absolutely nothing like I’d expected. Shiloh came around the table and pulled out a chair for me. “Thank you,” he whispered in my ear, his feathery voice so close to the nape of my neck, it sent shivers down my spine. I sat, scooting my chair closer to the table to put a little distance between us. “Sal never does that for you.” Benji nodded toward my chair. “He does too make me shiv—” I froze, realizing too late that Benji meant Sal had never pulled out a chair for me. “What?” My brother looked confused. I shot a glance at Shiloh. He was grinning like he knew exactly what I’d meant. There came a whoosh from somewhere in the back of the shop. I snapped away from Shiloh, grateful for the interruption, just as a purple velvet curtain parted. The lights were off back there, but I could make out the shadowy figure of a woman stepping forward. She held something in her arms. The “something” barked and squirmed and then jumped to the floor. “Jessie!” Shiloh called as a black, brown, and white beagle raced straight for him, her long ears flopping up and down like two furry flags. She resembled a hound dog, but more petite, with short legs and thick nails that clacked against the tile floor. Shiloh scooped her up, and she licked his face with enthusiastic affection. I looked back toward the curtain. The mysterious shadow walked toward us, the lighting in the shop brightening as she approached. Benji let out a gasp. “Yeah,” Shiloh said. “Mom has that effect on people.” Dominique Lender looked like an exotic beauty from a James Bond movie. Tall and lean but in a healthy, athletic way, she had a more-than-generous rack, the kind that any female at Stratford—teachers included—would have shaved their heads to possess. And although I knew she had to be about the same age as our mom, Shiloh’s mother looked years younger. An over- abundance of wavy, ink-black hair cascaded down around her apple-round cheeks. She had plump lips like Angelina Jolie’s and eyes that were almost as dark as her inky hair. Mrs. Lender would have been nearly perfect, except for the tattoos on the bronze skin of her slender arms. “These are your friends?” Her sultry voice was laced with an Italian accent. She placed a hand on Shiloh’s shoulder, displaying her long nails, painted a matte black that complemented her hair. Normally, I hated that Goth look, but on Mrs. Lender, it worked. Well. Shiloh motioned toward my brother. “This is Benji Merchant, and this ...” He turned to me, and a rush of connection surged down my limbs as though we’d been unexpectedly plugged into each other. I could almost feel the current radiating from his huge, sable-brown eyes. Shiloh wasn’t that homely guy he’d painted himself to be the first time we’d met. He was unusual and exotic like his exquisite mother. Benji cleared his throat. Shiloh jerked. “Ah, yes. This is Benji’s twin sister, Toni. With an ‘I,’” he added, smiling. I had rehearsed my own smile for today. The plan was to give Shiloh a sweet little grin that would persuade him to help Benji with his car. But the smile I returned now wasn’t the one I’d practiced in our bathroom mirror. This smile felt deeper, wider. And far more real. I inhaled and looked away. What was happening here? I had come today only because I’d made a promise to my brother. Nothing else. Nothing more. “Nice to meet you, Mrs. Lender.” Benji’s greeting came out as a squeak. He was drooling over her, no doubt about it. The whole situation was weird, but at least it reassured me of one thing. My brother had good taste in women. “I like your shop,” I said to her. At the sound of my voice, Jessie hopped off of Shiloh, slipped under the table, and scampered onto my lap. She stood on me, her small paws resting on my shoulders, and licked my face with her cold, wet tongue. I couldn’t help but giggle. Our squat-legged bulldog could never pull off a stunt like that. “Ah,” said Mrs. Lender. “Our Jessie has a new friend.” “I. I don’t know about that,” I stammered as Jessie’s kisses turned to sniffs up and down my neck. “She must smell Enzo.” Benji sat next to me and petted Jessie’s furry white head. “Enzo?” Mrs. Lender’s face lit up. “You have an Italian friend?” “No. Well, yes. Sort of. Enzo’s our English bulldog. But he’s named after our Italian- American grandfather, Lorenzo.” Mrs. Lender nodded. “Now I see. Toni is short for Antoinette, no?” “My grandmother,” I said. “How’d you know?” “Tony is a man’s name. Not for you.” She gently pushed a wayward strand of my hair from my face. “But Antoinette! That is an imperial name. Perfect for a beauty such as you.” “Yeah, sis. You remember what happened to Marie Antoinette.” Benji made a cutting sign across his throat. “Oh no!” cried Mrs. Lender. “Nothing so terrible for our Antoinette. She will have a long, wonderful life.” Her face tensed. She looked almost frightened. “Your Enzo? He is not dangerous? This bull dog?” Benji whipped out his cell, called up a photo of Enzo, and showed her the picture. Mrs. Lender laughed in relief. “What a little barrel! He is darling.” She looked up at me. “You must bring this Enzo for a visit. Our Jessie would like him very much.” “That’s a great idea! Isn’t it, sis?” Benji elbowed me so hard, I smacked forward into the table. Jessie barked in retaliation. “Toni would be happy to bring Enzo over for a play date. Any time.” “Che magnifico!” Mrs. Lender clapped. “My son will be glad.” “Mom!” Shiloh exclaimed. “You will not love their visit?” she asked him. “Well, sure.” A tell-tale flush crawled up Shiloh’s pasty-pale neck. “See. I always know what is best for my boy. You children have fun. I will go check on my husband.” Mrs. Lender started for the front door. “I really like the mural.” I motioned toward the outside window. “It is bellissimo. He did such beautiful work.” “Who did?” I asked. “My baby.” She blew a kiss to her son. “You?” I gasped at Shiloh. “Painted that?” “Told ya, sis,” Benji said. “Shiloh’s the best.” “You weren’t kidding.” I’d said it under my breath, but Shiloh must have heard because he broke into a smug little grin. Mrs. Lender opened the front door. A guitar strummed and then a deep voice boomed, “O Sole Mio.” She gave us a backward wave. “Ciao.” She slipped outside. “So.” Shiloh closed his sketchbook with a crisp smack. “What brings you guys here today? Not that I’m unhappy to see you. Just curious.” “We. Well, um ...” Benji nodded to me. “You tell him, sis.” Jessie settled down onto my lap and closed her eyes. I stroked her neck and back, and she let out a whimper of contentment. “We were hoping you could help us, Shiloh. I hear you’ve been giving Benj here some lessons on how to impress Portia Belmont.” “Just a few pointers.” Shiloh’s cheeks flushed again, turning his face from a pale pink to robust crimson. “I’m not an expert or anything.” I bit back a smirk. Expert. Ha! I bet he’s never even kissed a girl. I snuck a peek at his lips. They weren’t as plush as his mother’s, but they were nice. Kissable, even. If a girl had that inclination. I shifted Jessie on my lap. “Apparently, Portia has a thing for cars with airbrushed artwork. We were wondering if you could maybe, possibly—” “Could you detail the Charger for me?” Benji cut in. “I’ll pay you. A little every week. I’m taking extra shifts at the Striker Pin. You can have all my overtime.” I glared at him. Thought I was here to do the asking? If you wanted to do this, then why drag me along? “It has to be something totally original,” Benji went on, ignoring me. “No skulls or Kingdom of Power crap. Oh, and you can’t tell Portia. I want it to be a surprise.” Shiloh stood and took Jessie from me. He cradled the beagle in his arms, stroking her ears as he spoke. “Portia comes by the shop a lot. Does she know your car?” “I don’t think so. No.” Benji shook his head. “Good. Then I’ll work on the project alone, but if she sees me and wants to help—” “Then let her!” my brother interrupted. “It’ll give me an excuse to see her if I maybe come by the body shop to say, hang out with you. And my car. But still, don’t tell her—” “Yeah, yeah, I get it. Big secret. And don’t worry about the design. I’m gonna create something that’ll blow you and her away.” “Awesome!” Benji was breathing hard now. I walked over to the first swivel chair and hopped onto the black leather seat to watch the show. “I’ll do everything we discussed ...” Shiloh sounded hesitant. “But, not for you.” He sauntered over to me. “For her.” “Toni?” my brother croaked. “She doesn’t need her stupid Kia detailed.” “Hey!” I said. “My baby’s not stupid.” “She’s no Charger!” Benji returned. “Whoa! No fighting, you two. I’m not talking about Toni’s car. I’ll do the work on the Charger. For. A. Price.” Shiloh pronounced those last three words in a flat, deliberate cadence that made me shudder. “Name it!” Benji seemed completely oblivious to the mood change in the room. “Whatever it is, I’ll pay.” Shiloh shook his head. “Not you.” He stared right at me with a strange, unreadable expression on his face. “Her.” “Me?” I grasped the leather-covered handles of my chair. “Why do you want my money?” “Oh, no.” Shiloh stroked Jessie so calmly, the dog fell asleep in his arms. “Not money.” That shudder chilled to a frightening shiver. I gripped the handles even harder. “C’mon. Just name your price,” Benji said again. “Toni will pay it.” Shiloh set Jessie onto one of the red couches and then hopped onto the swivel chair beside me. He spun around a few times and then stopped abruptly, facing me. “Is this true, Toni? You’ll pay my price?” “I. I—” I looked back at Benji. You promised, his eyes pleaded. You swore you’d help me. “I’ll tell you what I want for my work on the Charger.” I stiffened and slowly turned back to face Shiloh. “I want Toni to go to our senior prom. With me.” “What?” Benji and I both cried. “What about Sal?” I asked. “Yeah,” said Benji. “You know they’re dating. Toni’s gonna go with—” “Me,” Shiloh finished. “We can double date with you and Portia.” He smiled, and I knew that he had passed mischievous and gone straight to hell. “She’ll fall all over you when she sees what I’ve done with your car.” “You aren’t considering his terms?” But the lovesick expression on my brother’s face told me that the mere mention of Portia had driven him out of my corner and into Shiloh’s. “Maybe Sal would understand.” Benji shrugged. “Hey, he doesn’t even like dances.” I jumped down and headed for the door. “I’m done here.” “Wait!” Benji yelled. He turned to Shiloh. “Can’t you consider something else? Maybe Toni can help you clean—” “The prom. With me. I’ll even spring for the tickets to the dinner-dance at Avon Banquets. Agree to my very generous terms and you’ll have your car, Benji.” Shiloh stood and walked toward my brother. “You won’t be disappointed in my work. I promise you that. So, do we have a deal?” He stuck out his hand. Benji stared at his outstretched arm. “This is just a friendly little agreement amongst friends.” “Friendly?” I nearly spat. “Listen, Toni,” Shiloh said, in a nauseatingly cheery voice. “I want to dance with you at the prom. Is that so horrible?” My fists clenched in response. I glared at my brother. You’re going to change your mind? Please, Benji begged of me. Please. I sighed. “We double to prom. Shiloh gets his one dance, and I’ve fulfilled my part of this bargain.” “Agreed,” said Shiloh. “Unless you want to dance some more.” “Fat chance,” I said, not even trying to disguise my disgust. My brother, still unaware or unconcerned about the tension in the room, let out a whoop. “You’re the best sister in the world.” He seized Shiloh’s hand and shook it furiously. “Okay, buddy. You have a deal.” I grabbed the doorknob, anxious to leave Shiloh and his damn emporium behind. “There’s an addendum to this contract,” Shiloh said. “A forfeiture clause.” “Oh, yeah?” I smirked at him. “Go on. I dare you. What could be worse than breaking my boyfriend’s heart on the biggest night of our lives?” “Maybe this will be worse.” Shiloh returned my smirk. “If you fail me on prom night, I ... READ 4EVER GIRL TO FIND OUT MORE!
Marian Cheatham is a full-time writer of YA novels and screenplays, part-time everything else - spouse, homemaker, volunteer, and animal guardian of five pets. In her free time, she loves to read, walk, garden, and travel. Not necessarily in that order. She and her husband work hard (and have fun) ticking off items on their Bucket List.
Her YA series, Stratford High, revolves around modern retellings of Shakespeare’s plays. Ruined, Book One, is inspired by the Bard’s classic romance, Much Ado About Nothing. 4Ever Girl, Book Two, is inspired by Shakespeare’s controversial comedy, The Merchant of Venice. Marian’s debut YA, Eastland, is based on the real-life story of the 1915 Eastland boat disaster in Chicago. Facebook l Twitter l Goodreads
The prodigal son of Copper Ridge, Oregon, has finally come home
The man who ruined Rebecca Bear's life just strolled back into it with one heck of an offer. Years ago, Gage West's recklessness left Rebecca scarred inside and out. Now he wants to make amends by gifting her the building that houses her souvenir store. Rebecca won't take Gage's charity, but she's willing to make a deal with the sexy, reclusive cowboy. Yet keeping her enemy close is growing dangerously appealing… He's the wild West brother, the bad seed of Copper Ridge. That's why Gage needs the absolution Rebecca offers. He just didn't expect to need her. After years of regretting his past, he knows where his future lies—with this strong, irresistible woman who could make a black sheep come home to stay…
Anger, hate, bitterness are all such unattractive emotions, they muddle your mind, they tarnish your soul, they make a mark on you. Rebecca is filled with these feelings, it seems that is what drives her, gives her energy, makes her move forward, gives a place to hide. Her life was shaped by the accident, it changed everything for her, still affects her, it still is visible in her body. Her mother used it, and the payoff, as an excuse to leave them, that changed her life even more. His father made the payoff, making the whole accident a secret. It's been 17 years. Rebecca hated Gage with everything that was in her, enough to wanting to kill him.
Gage was such a troubled man, it was obvious that the events in his teenage years, the accident, and his father, shaped him as well. And he tries to stand so tall and careless, but with every action and every decision he shows how much he truly did care, how much he wanted to fix the past, to be able to move on, to be able to be, to be able to breathe. He has all these thoughts and emotions inside of him that he has absolutely no frame of reference how to deal with them, and he seems lost. Hate, bitterness, anger, and fear were all palpable in the air, the tension immensely high, the air filled with negative thoughts, so much so it felt like I was drowning in them at times, overwhelming to take it all in. And from that rock bottom place, the author turns the story to a beautiful tale about redemption, forgiveness, learning to let go of all the protective walls, and learning to love. The story goes deep, it is rough, raw, and hurtful, because we often have break down completely, to be able to build up again. And it is easier to accept that someone else has forgiven you than forgive yourself. There's nothing light and fluffy about this story. I was very frustrated at the beginning since I felt Gage was dealt a rotten hand. He was a teenage boy who made a mistake, the accident was that, an accident. What happens after the accident was choices adults made themselves and had nothing to do with Gage. Why all the hate and anger towards him? But it was the process that Rebecca had to go through. And the character development in this story is superb, on both Rebecca and Gage, and even secondary characters. How they both come to the place, where they can open up, forgive themselves, and move on from there is an uphill battle, beautifully done, so touching, and even sensual. This story shook me to the core and got me emotionally involved. I was furious to it at times, yet smiling at other times. I felt for the characters struggles, yet was irritated by their immaturity. The journey Rebecca and Gage took, I was right there with them, with every bump in the road, the uphills, the thrilling curves, and the occasional smooth riding. A beautifully written story, at times nearly poetic, about redemption, forgiveness, learning to trust and the meaning of love. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon at the side I’m not really a gourmet cook. My food isn’t fancy, but it is tasty! I’m also not big on following exact recipes, but I’m going to do my best here. You will need: 1 pound of chicken breasts (boneless and skinless) 1 package corn tortillas 1 can tomato sauce 2 cans enchilada sauce (I prefer Rosarita) Shredded cheese (as much as you want) 1 can black olives (sliced) Boil chicken until cooked, shred, set aside. First preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Warm up some oil (canola, olive, whatever you prefer) in a small pan on the stove. Dip your corn tortillas in the oil. This is to warm them up and make it so they don’t split, you don’t want to fry them! Set them on a plate or cookie sheet lined with paper towels to help get rid of some of the excess oil. Take one tortilla, put in a line of shredded chicken, then a little cheese over that. Roll the tortilla and place in a glass baking dish (9x13 is ideal). Then repeat until your pan is full. Pour your canned sauces into a bowl and mix them, then pour them over the top of your rolled, filled tortillas. Sprinkle with cheese, add olives and bake about 20 minutes, or until the enchiladas are bubbling. And there you have one of my favorite meals to eat, on deadline or any time!
New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Maisey Yates lives in rural Oregon with her three children and her husband, whose chiseled jaw and arresting features continue to make her swoon. She feels the epic trek she takes several times a day from her office to her coffee maker is a true example of her pioneer spirit. In 2009, at the age of twenty-three Maisey sold her first book.
Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard. She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world. Website | Facebook | Twitter
By Jane Hinchey
Genre: Sci-fi Romance
Struggling to discover her role in a terrifying new world where everything has changed, she must decide who she can trust.
Sierra Walker has been missing for 30 years. Her family thought she was dead, only when Sierra turns up, she hasn’t aged a day. But Earth has changed drastically. Biological warfare has decimated the planet. Her home town of Redmeadows exists under a bio dome, and to survive in Redmeadows, you must be micro-chipped. No chip? Then it’s off to quarantine for you. And no-one has returned from quarantine. Ever. Running from the law, fighting her forbidden attraction to Alrik, the tall, dark and handsome alien who rescued her, unsure of where her brothers’ loyalties lay, and mourning the death of her mother, can Sierra also keep the secret she’s been desperately trying to hide? The one that could be her salvation, or her doom. Aussie author, Jane Hinchey, brings you Returned, the first in the Acarnania Warriors series of alien warrior romance. It’s a sci-fi, dystopian romantic suspense that features gripping supernatural drama, surprising twists, dynamic characters, and heart-pounding romance. Contains hot romance and sizzling sex scenes, suitable for 18+ only. Read Returned today to satisfy your craving for a fast-paced paranormal tale.
Aussie Author Jane Hinchey writes sexy, snarky, badass, paranormal romances, so if you're into dark sexy vampires, hot shifters, sexy aliens, jaw dropping demons, sinful angels... she's the author for you.
I dislike writing bio's in the third person - so I'm bucking trends and making waves. I was born in the UK, raised in Australia - we're what you call 'ten pound poms'. I was two when we left England for the sunny shores of Adelaide, South Australia. For the first five years we lived in a place called Nunjikompita. Tiny place. Population six. Okay, that's an exaggeration...more like one hundred. And we had no television. Hence my love of reading and making up stories. I love cats. It doesn't mean I want a cat figurine for every birthday/Christmas (this means you, Mum). I have two cats, Maxx the asshole cat, and Morgan, the not very bright cat. I also have a turtle, he's very quiet and doesn't like to be cuddled. Author links: Amazon I Facebook I Twitter I Goodreads
Fallon McQueen needs a date to her ex-husbandâs wedding...yesterday.
CRAZY FOR YOU
A Christmas in Starlight Hill Novella
Heatherly Bell
Releasing November 15th, 2016
And then she meets...Santa Claus. Jack Cooper was simply trying to do a good deed and now he has a hot, but batshit crazy blonde asking him to be her date to a destination wedding. But if Jack is going to help, they're going to do it his way.
Exclusive Pre-Order
Heatherly Bell writes humor, heat and heart contemporary romances with sexy Alpha every day heroes. She promises readers love, laughter, and a happily ever after.
When early onset stage fright crushed dreams of Rock and Roll Hall of Fame status, Heatherly tackled writing in 2004. A steady stream of teenagers (hers) and their angst impeded her progress, but she sold her first book in 2013. Now the people and voices that occupy her head refuse to leave. She no longer sings unless you count randomly bursting into song to annoy her children (and the dogs).
Her second passion is crime, and Heatherly maintains she could be a detective and a criminal's worst nightmare. She watches Dateline every Friday night, and has solved many local cases, including the case of the Late Teenager and the case of the Missing Keys (recurring).
She lives in northern California with her family, including two beagles, one who can say 'hello' and the other who can feel a pea through several pillows.
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Bury the Living
The Revolutionary Series #1 By: Jodi McIsaac Releasing September 6, 2016 47North /Amazon
Rebellion has always been in the O’Reilly family’s blood. So when faced with the tragic death of her brother during Northern Ireland’s infamous Troubles, a teenage Nora joined the IRA to fight for her country’s freedom. Now, more than a decade later, Nora is haunted by both her past and vivid dreams of a man she has never met.
When she is given a relic belonging to Brigid of Kildare, patron saint of Ireland, the mystical artifact transports her back eighty years—to the height of Ireland’s brutal civil war. There she meets the alluring stranger from her dreams, who has his own secrets—and agenda. Taken out of her own time, Nora has the chance to alter the fortunes of Ireland and maybe even save the ones she loves. In this captivating and adventurous novel from Jodi McIsaac, history belongs to those with the courage to change it
Belfast, 1990
When she was fifteen years old, a simple knock on the door changed Nora o’Reilly’s life—again. The knock was hard and impatient, like the people in her neighbor- hood. Nora ignored it. Maybe, just this once, her mother would rouse herself off the sofa. But no. Her mother hadn’t answered the door since the day Nora’s father had done so and been thanked for his trouble with a bullet through the eye. Nora’s small red footprints had tracked across the beige linoleum. The saint Brigid’s cross that had hung over the doorway for as long as Nora could remember had failed in its promise to protect them. Ten years had passed, and now the linoleum was more gray than beige. Nora slipped to the front window and peered out. it was the middle of the afternoon; she’d only just arrived home from school. There’d been no warning of a raid—no banging of dustbin lids on the sidewalks to announce that the peelers had dared venture into andersonstown. Two men she didn’t recognize stood on her doorstep. They must be looking for Eamon. Nora opened the door a crack. The first man jammed his black boot into the opening. Ballix. adrenaline flooded her body. She shoved the door against his foot, berating her stupidity. What had she been thinking? What if these men were Prods, come to finish off the rest of them? “Relax, kid. We just want to talk.” The man forced the door open farther. “You Nora o’Reilly?” “Depends on who’s asking. Who’re you?” He had bottlebrush hair and wore a brown leather bomber jacket. He looked old enough to be her father, only her father had been wiry, and this man looked like a rugby fullback. His companion had a thin, sharp face and kept looking over his shoulder. “Doesn’t matter. We’ve been told to fetch you.” “Fetch me where?” Nora tried to push the door closed again, her mind lurching. Whoever these men were, she wasn’t going anywhere with them. “The commanding officer of West Battalion has a few questions about your extracurricular activities. C’mon now. Let’s go without a fight.” Nora’s fear turned to dread. “Like hell i’m going with youse.” she stamped on his foot, but he responded by putting his shoulder to the door and sending it flying. Nora staggered backward, colliding with the coatrack. Shite, shite, shite. She scrabbled to her feet. She’d almost rather be caught by the Brits. The Provisional iRa didn’t tolerate petty crime in their area, and they certainly didn’t believe in such luxuries as courts and trials. “Ma! Ma!” she screamed. Her mother would know these men; Nora’s father had been a PiRa member from the beginning. Her mother came padding into the hall, still in her dressing gown, weaving slightly, a glass of whiskey clutched in her hand. “Paddy sullivan, what is the meaning of this?” “sorry, Mrs. o’Reilly, but o’connor wants to see her. Seems she’s been selling drugs up at the school.” Think, Nora, think. she grappled for an explanation, a plausible denial, anything that would get her out of this. But panic clogged her brain, and all she could think was I’m fucked. She didn’t know her mother could move so fast. Suddenly they were nose to nose. “Oh, aye? Is that true?” Mrs. o’Reilly demanded. “No, it’s a load of shite!” Nora protested. “You watch your language. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, what am i going to do with you? What would your poor father say?” Her mother shook her head, then turned back to the PiRa men. “Whatever she’s done, we’ll take care of it here, so we will. Youse all head out, now.” “Sorry, Mrs. o’Reilly, but we’ve got our orders.” Paddy nodded to his companion, who brushed past Nora and her mother and pounded up the stairs toward the bedrooms. “Oi! Houl on! Youse said you just wanted to talk!” Nora shouted after him. Mrs. o’Reilly looked like she was about to follow, but Paddy laid a hand on her arm. “Just let him do his job,” he said. “Ma, I’ve done nothing wrong! I swear it!” a faint sheen broke out on her forehead, and the blood drained from her fair skin. The sound of drawers being emptied and furniture being overturned traveled down the stairs. Mrs. o’Reilly sank down into a kitchen chair and took a large gulp of whiskey. she set the glass down with a clunk and put her head in her hands. “Ach, Nora, i’ve tried my best with you, sure i have. Where is Eamon?” “He went out with the lads,” Nora mumbled. she glanced toward the door. “Don’t you be thinking of doing a runner,” Paddy warned. He wrapped his meaty hand around Nora’s up- per arm. “I’m not! But youse wait until Eamon gets home. He’ll sort youse out all right.” “She’s quite the lip on her, hasn’t she?” Paddy said to the slumped form of her mother. Loud footsteps on the stairs made them all look up. Paddy’s friend tossed him a clear plastic jar of tiny white pills. “Oh, aye, what’s this, then?” Paddy asked. “It’s not mine! I don’t know where you got it,” Nora said. “I got it from your room,” the other man said with a sneer. “Unless you’re telling us your ma or your brother put it there?” “Don’t be an eejit,” Nora spat. “Nora! Are you trying to get yourself killed?” Mrs. o’Reilly said, locking her watery gaze on her daughter. “Do you think i don’t have enough trouble as it is? Answer the man! Is this yours? What’s in that bottle?” “I don’t know. I said they’re not mine. Headache pills, prob’ly.” “Oh, aye?” Paddy said, his grin widening. “With wee happy faces stamped on them? Looks like a fine stash o’ Molly to me.” “It’s not,” Nora said. She stared at the floor, letting her lank red hair fall forward to hide her face. “Right, we’ll be off, then,” said Paddy. “We’ll bring her back after.” “Where are youse taking her?” Mrs. o’Reilly asked. “Can’t say. She’ll not be hurt. But o’connor wants to talk to her himself, so he does.” “Then tell him he should come here!” Nora said. They ignored her. Mrs. o’Reilly groaned. “Maybe he can talk some sense into her. But sure and you’ll be bringing her back here as soon as he’s asked his questions.” “Aye,” Paddy said. “Don’t you worry. No one’ll be hurting Jimmy’s daughter.” “Ma! You’re not letting them take me?” Nora’s brown eyes widened with panic. “They’ll knee me, so they will!” she’d seen it once, a man with both kneecaps shot through. She could still hear his screams, see the blood running down his legs. But then again, he’d been lucky not to get a bullet in the head, like her father. “You and I both know they’ll not give us a choice, now, don’t we? Go on with the lads, and answer their questions,” her mother answered, pulling herself unsteadily to her feet. “Mind you be polite. Maybe you’ll listen to Mick O’connor more than you do your own mother.” With a nod to Mrs. O’Reilly, Paddy and his friend each took hold of one of Nora’s scrawny arms and dragged her out the front door toward a waiting van. “Someone help! I’m being kidnapped!” Nora yelled, craning her head frantically in search of a savior. Neighbors peeked out from behind curtains, and two boys stopped their game of football down the street to stare. No one came forward. “Shut yer gub!” Paddy said, giving her a rough shove into the van. “I told yer ma we wouldn’t hurt you for your da’s sake, but if you make it hard for us, all bets are off.” “Eamon!” she yelled, clinging to the door, hoping her brother was somewhere nearby. He’d stand up to the Provos. He’d protect her. “Eamon!”
Jodi McIsaac is the author of several novels, including A Cure for Madness and the Thin Veil Series. She grew up in New Brunswick, on Canada’s east coast. After abandoning her Olympic speed skating dream, she wrote speeches for a politician, volunteered in a refugee camp, waited tables in Belfast, earned a couple of university degrees, and started a boutique copywriting agency. She loves running, geek culture, and whiskey.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Embrace Me
Chasing Fire #3.5 By: Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers Releasing September 20, 2016 Intermix
Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair's heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.
Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy... It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way... Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle... Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he's determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own...
Hudson emerged from the water and caught Allie around the waist as she popped up. He took her mouth and thrust his tongue between her lips, their kiss flavored with the salt of the sea. Her arms looped behind his neck and her fingers teased the hair at his nape. He pulled her closer and she made a soft moan as she went lax against his body. She was his wife, his best friend, his lover, and his most valued treasure. She was the one who gave him strength in his most vulnerable of times, and who silenced the memories that haunted his mind. She had, in a sense, freed him from the darkness. They had freed each other.
Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers.
Siren…or Sinner?
With her long blond hair and flowy skirts, Rhys Glover's new neighbor is the sexiest woman he's ever seen. He quickly learns she's also free-spirited and impulsive—the total opposite of his own personality. They should be like oil and water. Instead, the chemistry between them is like oxygen and flame. But when Rhys's next assignment for Cobalt & Dane security leads him right back to Wren, Rhys begins to walk a very fine line between ethics and desire. He believes he can trust Wren, but can he trust himself when he's with her? And if she is keeping her own dangerous secrets, will he be able to walk away?
I fell for Rhys and Wren from the start, while they were trying to navigate through the lustful haze they were in for each other. The story started with such an enthralling way, it was easy to immerse in it, and get lost in the deceit and abuse involved with the art gallery, not to mention the sensual and ardent doting Rhys and Wren were involved in.
They were steaming hot, so enamored with each other, it was adorable and charming. Of course, there was more to them, and to their relationship than the physical attraction. But the secrets Wren was holding was about to change everything and put any possibility of any kind of future together in peril. Both Rhys and Wren are honest, kind-hearted, caring people. They both have had their hurts and trials in the past, and are careful whom they trust, and to whom they open up to, share their secrets with. Both of them have their quirks, that in my opinion made them even more lovable, but it seemed not everyone agreed. It bothered me a bit how everyone, even her closest friends, was so adamant to say Wren never thought what she did, was impulsive, and hasty, when she was actually just trying to help them, take care of their problems. Yes, maybe she didn't use the best methods, but she did have a heart of gold. It wasn't a major issue to me, but it came up frequently, and I wanted to stand up for her and defend her. Yes, that is how emotionally involved I got with the tale. The mystery at the gallery, the abuse, the connection with Rhys to it all, it was done well, it was intense, and big part of the plot. The way the different layers of that drama was peeled off, one by one, gave a kick to the story, spiced it up. There's a lot of food and cooking involved in the story as Wren and Rhys get to know each other, and a scene with chocolate that is delicious, if I may say so. A delightfully sensual story with characters that were likable and easy to relate to, mixed with elements of menace and peril and deceit in the art world, are the makings of an engaging and lively story ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Her past…or her future?
It's taken Amy Finley ten years, but she's finally ready to return to her hometown of Heartache, Tennessee, and face the past. She just never expected that would include reuniting with her high school sweetheart and now town sheriff, Sam Reyes. Or that Sam's latest case would lead right back to the darkest chapter in her life. The attraction between Amy and Sam is definitely still there, not to mention that she's sure she could quickly grow to love his cute baby son. But can he forgive her for keeping her secrets? Can she forgive herself?
There's a lot going on at Heartache, Tennessee, as the readers walk right into the events from the previous books in the series. Even though the is strongly part of a series, the book can be read as a stand-alone, like I did, and still enjoy it. The past events are recapped with satisfying detail, to be able to follow the storyline. The major events in the town are not all resolved here, there's no cliffhanger, but definitely left many openings for the series to continue.
Sam and Amy were easy to like, the honesty and openness they had with each other were refreshing. There wasn't any unnecessary angst or drama between them, from the start they said what they meant, and asked for information when curious, no games, no pretend. With the fragile situation from the past, there was tension and worry, but it was over driven or overplayed in any form. Even though other's seemed to think Sam and Amy both could be a little difficult or intimidating, with each other, there was no doubt, just acceptance, understanding, and caring. Even with Aidan, his mom, and babysitters, their open acceptance restorative, healing, and admirable. The crimes committed in the Heartache were on everyone's mind, the frustration and urge to nail the culprits was palpable. That crime aspect and the role of Sam and Amy in it gave the story more depth and juice. The secondary storyline with the teenagers was as if echoing Amy and Sam's past, so delicate yet so cloying. Coming home is not always easy, being with your family can be turbulent. The storyline kept coming around to the importance of a family, whether it is a family by blood or by choice. It looked at parenthood from many different angles, none of them perfect, without a fail, yet most of them at the end loving and protective. I loved following the development of the tale, the characters finding their voice and place within the community, the first love getting another, adorable chance, and some kind of momentary peace found within the city limits, for now at least, since it was hinted of that more turbulence was on its way ~ Four Spoons
USA TODAY bestselling author Regan Black thrills us with this adrenaline-fueled romance in her new series, Escape Club Heroes!
The stalker shadowing lawyer Julia Cooper's every move is vowing to ruin her life—unless she discloses information about a major criminal case. For discreet help, she turns to the shadowy Escape Club, where investigative brainpower and brawn are for hire. Mitch Galway, a firefighter on leave, becomes Julia's round-the-clock bodyguard. All sculpted biceps, sexy bravado and conflicted past, Mitch works overtime to uncover the identity of the person hunting her. But as they track the creep getting way too close, Julia must share more of herself with the intriguing man protecting her…which puts them both high on a lunatic's hit list.
A thrilling story, that had me on the edge. I really enjoyed the storyline, the firefighter and lawyer working together, fighting for justice, trying to find the clues, while staying alive, and that seemed so overwhelming and difficult, many would have crumbled under the pressure. But not Julia and Mitch.
The clues they needed to solve the identity of the stalker were nearly non-existent, yet they managed to move forward, in a believable way. The mystery of the stalker, the fear, and danger he exposed on Julie and Mitch, was escalating and fully absorbing. The tension and threat are so well done, I was completely absorbed in their world, with my heart raising and shoulders tense. Julie and Mitch has a great chemistry. Even though at the first sight they don't appear to have anything in common, but it turns out they are very much alike, when it comes to their heart, mind, values, and passions in life. They both are caring, deeply feeling individuals, with short tempers, and need to be in the middle of the action. Julie's childhood is something she would rather forget completely, yet it seems the issues still play a role on how she reacts to others and her nervousness to open up, her fear of rejection high. Mitch's family was a delight, not overly sweet or supportive, but realistic, loving and there when you truly needed them. I enjoyed this story immensely, it had the suspense built up well, the menace constant and deadly, the danger palpable. The attraction between Julie and Mitch was instant but grew deeper with time, giving it credibility, making their budding feelings tangible, giving a few swoon worthy moments towards the end. A fine work of romantic suspense, setting up the stage for the new series I will look forward to ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
In Search of a Groom
After a life of drudgery on her family's farm, Cassie Lynn Vickers relishes her freedom working in town as a paid companion for feisty Mrs. Flanagan. When her father suddenly demands she come home, she has no choice. Unless she can find a husband. If only she could convince handsome town newcomer Riley Walker to marry her… Riley is on the run. He's desperate to keep his niece and nephew safe from his crooked half brother. But a delay in Turnabout, Texas, shows him everything he didn't know he was missing: home, family—and Cassie Lynn. Can he find a way to become her Prince Charming…and build a real family with the children and Cassie Lynn?
It was so easy to immerse myself into the world of Turnabout, Texas. I found myself reading the story where ever I went, since I couldn't put it down. There's something sweet, innocent, and hopeful about the story. The west is still young, people are working hard, most of them have respect for others, and the kindness overflows.
Both Cassie Lynn and Riley have a deep faith in God, believing that He will provide and guide them. In times of trouble, as well when in peace, with a thankful heart they prayed to the Lord. The relationship between Cassie Lynn and Riley seems to be taking time, when in reality, it was just a few days. But they had their time to get to know each other. I enjoyed how their feelings grew, got deeper with time, and the sweet moments with just the two of them were adorable. How the tension, danger, and fear was built through the tale was clever. It gave another dimension to the story and more into the plot. Genuine, sincere, and endearing story, with life and love, and guiding faith ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side |