One look…
That was all it took for Gabe Maguire to realize something was missing in his life. After beating cancer and returning to the cage to claim victory in the octagon, Gabe was ready to settle into his life in Hope Falls as a firefighter. The sexy MMA champion was grateful to be alive but still felt like he was just going through the motions until he laid eyes on her. One promise… That was what Adriana Hale was determined to keep. As a young, single mother raising her twin girls and her late cousin’s son, Adriana was willing to sacrifice anything for her kids, including her heart. One night… That was what brought them together, but could it also be what would tear them apart. After realizing a connection that will change everything, will Adriana and Gabe find the happiness and love they both deserve or will fate have other plans for them? **Intended for 18+
Oh my goodness! Can there be a more perfect man than Gabe Maguire?! He is kind, sincere, goofy, spills off bad poetry, his great with kids, he is a nurturer, caretaker, protector, and build like a Greek God and his game is foreplay... He is not a shy person when it comes to his feelings towards Adriana Hale and her kids. He is all in, and he wants everyone to know it. I mean, he is the dream, the ideal man that is impossible not to love.
Adriana is the match for Gabe. She is brave, strong, capable woman, who has created a great life for herself and her kids. She is the heroine that is easy to look up to and appreciate everything she does. She is willing to fight for her kids, to keep them safe and happy, that is the main thing in her life, a responsibility and a pleasure she never forgets or wants to put aside. She is a completely dedicated mom, an entrepreneur with over thirty employees, a superwoman indeed. And the chemistry between Gabe and Adriana is sizzling, the connection between them is immediate yet it is genuine, sound, and true. With the situation they are in, the feelings sit fast and deep into their hearts and minds. The link between them is tight, it reaches their souls as well as their bodies. They had me smiling, swooning, and sighing, reading about Gabe, Adriana, and the kids had all my emotions involved. The story is about survival in the biggest test that life can through at your way, it is about finding your soul mate at the least expected time with the least expected person, it is about forming the connection, falling in love, letting your mind go, and trusting that the person is there to catch you when you fall. It is about being a parent, and everything it involves, it is about family, about that place where you belong. It is a touching, adorable, heartbreaking, and healing story about love, family and coming home. Prepare for tears, tears from the hardships all the way to the happiest moments in life. There are tears of loss and tears of healing, with lots of smiles and even belly laughs in between because life is unpredictable, filled with surprises no one can expect. The smoothly flowing tale will capture your mind, the characters will make you fall in love with them, and you will be living each moment, right there, with them, with your emotions churning and the anticipation high. Just the typical visit to Hope Falls, if you ask me, cause I am in love with the series where each story is fresh and anew ~ Five Spoons!
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Contemporary Romance, Women’s Fiction
The Dock Series, Book 1
Date Published: July 2016
Do any of us truly know the people we love and trust?
Keegan Henderson married the love of her life—twice.
And divorced him—twice.
An intelligent and high-spirited thirty-four-year-old, Keegan finds herself once again living with her parents while juggling her duties as a mother to her preteen son and discovering who she is as a newly single woman.
Her ex-husband, Will, a state police investigator working undercover, is a man with a past. His buried secrets are catching up with him, forcing their way into his present, and as a result, he chooses to deceive those he loves in order to protect them.
On her journey to moving on, Keegan has a chance meeting with Jack Grady, a local firefighter, and their attraction to each other is one that neither can deny. But Jack also has baggage of his own that is proving to be too much for Keegan to handle.
As their vulnerabilities are exposed, a series of unexpected events occurs, shattering lives along the way.
Other Books in the Dock Series:
The Dock Series, Book 2
Published: April 2017
Keegan and Jack find their way back to each other and start a new life together as man and wife, thinking that all their pain from the past is behind them.
Keegan tries to build a future with Jack but is distracted by the many unanswered questions that she still has about her ex-husband, Will Henderson’s death. A state police investigator, Will was shot and killed at the hand of his childhood friend and drug dealer Troy Martin while working undercover. To help find the answers she seeks, Keegan decides to write the book, Ultimate Cost. Keegan’s book reunites her with a former boyfriend who provides new opportunities that she never before envisioned for herself.
In the meantime, a woman from Jack’s past reenters his life, only for him to discover that she has been harboring a secret ever since their breakup eighteen years ago.
Keegan’s and Jack’s happiness is put in jeopardy as their heartaches of yesterday continue to haunt their dreams for tomorrow.
About the Author
S.T. Heller was born and raised in Maryland. She now lives on a lake in southern Pennsylvania with her husband and dog. Retired from a local school system, she has two children and five grandchildren. Along with enjoying fun times on the lake with family and friends, her other pastimes include quilting and making pottery. She loves the sound of her grandchildren’s laughter, daydreaming on a beach by the water’s edge, getting lost in a good book, and floating on the lake at sunset.
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Contemporary Romance, Military Romance
Date Published: October 12, 2017
Publisher: EmKo Media
On Sale for $.99 until October 13, 2017!!!
He was a nameless guy in a bar--a man Grace couldn't get out of her head...
A week later, she came home to find him sweaty and shirtless with a tape measure in hand, remodeling her loft. As a Parker-King, she's not allowed to want someone like Noah Dalton. She's sick of her life, though. Sick of the rules of being a Parker-King. She wants something more, even if it isn't forever. Somewhere in history there was that one time where hot, no-strings-attached sex didn't end badly, right? Finding comfort in the arms of a former SEAL is easy, not falling for one . . . not so much.
Noah left the military and moved to New York for one reason: his daughter. Not for some uptight businesswoman--a Manhattan elitist. So when Grace offers him the kind of relationship that no hot-blooded man can turn down, he should say no. And when her seemingly put-together life spins out of control, and his instincts to protect and save kick in, he should turn away. But he doesn't.
Can two people from different worlds really live in the moment, knowing they're on borrowed time, or is someone bound to get hurt?
Excerpt
A splash of light shines beneath the door at the end of the hall. I swear I didn’t leave anything on this morning.
I touch the knob, a slight tremble moving down my arm and to my hand as I think back to the hotel in Greece.
My stomach tightens and burns, and my pulse skates to a faster speed. I slowly twist the handle, but my mind is protesting, begging me to run. My body is stiff and my muscles taut.
Run!
I should’ve run that night in Athens. Why’d I open that door? Why am I opening this one?
I inhale a deep breath, holding it—and it’s like the air in the room cocoons me and I can’t exhale.
I’m expecting the worst. Athens, part two. Another incident.
But once the door is wide-open, I see a man crouched over a wooden beam on the floor, a tape measurer in hand. The guy’s shirtless. His tanned, muscled back has a slight sheen of sweat down his spine.
He’s got to be part of the new remodel team I hired last weekend.
I bring a hand to my chest and try to calm down. To get my mind off Greece and back in New York.
“Who the hell are you?”
He’s a carpenter, right? I just want confirmation.
My hand goes inside my purse, and I search for my phone just in case I need to call the cops.
The man releases his tape measure and it retracts and snaps, falling with a thud to the floor. He slowly lifts his hands as if he can actually see me and I have a gun on him.
He rises to his feet. “Sorry. I work for Bella. She gave me the key.” He turns toward me.
My lungs deflate as if they’ve been poked with a needle, and I’m losing oxygen fast. It’s not because of Athens.
It’s because it’s…him.
Military Guy. Unless I’m wrong about him being military.
I’m never wrong.
“You.” His brows pull together and his hands fall to his sides.
I remove my hand from my purse and drop the bag to the floor. I’m more comfortable now that I know the shirtless guy isn’t some psychopath but in fact a construction worker.
But it’s the hot guy from the bar, which is still pretty damn bad.
“You’re Grace? I wasn’t expecting—”
“And what were you expecting?” I fold my arms and remain standing just inside the living area. He’s near the wall of windows overlooking the city on the other side of the room.
“I guess I pictured Grace as someone twice your age with a lot of cats.” A sheepish grin sweeps across his face.
I open my palms and glance to the left then right. “Do you see any cats?”
His smile deepens.
“And does my name sound old?” Maybe it does. The hyphen doesn’t help.
“Well, I don’t think that anymore. Now looking at you—Grace fits.”
I’m not sure what that’s supposed to mean, and I don’t bother to ask. I blink and try to figure out what the hell is going on.
“Are you stalking me?” I ask instead, though I know this must be crazy stupid luck that he’s now remodeling my loft. Of the millions of people in the city…
About the Author
Brittney Sahin began writing at an early age, with the dream to be a published author before the age of 18. Although academic pursuits (and, later, a teaching career) interrupted her aspirations, she never stopped writing--never stopped imagining.
It wasn't until her students encouraged her to follow her dreams that Brittney said goodbye to Upstate New York in order to start a new adventure in the place she was raised: Charlotte, North Carolina. Here, she decided to take her students' advice and begin to write again.
In 2015, she published her first novel, Silenced Memories (The Safe Bet). When she is not working on upcoming novels, she spends time with her family. She is a proud mother of two boys, and a lover of suspense novels, coffee, and the outdoors.
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On Sale for $.99 until October 13, 2017!!!
Necessary Roughness by Julie Brannagh
standalone Adult Contemporary Romance Avon Impulse Publication Date October 10, 2017
Tanner Cole’s football career was over in less than thirty seconds one Sunday afternoon. After a lifetime playing the sport he loves he’s been forced into an early retirement. Between figuring out his plan for the rest of his life and dealing with the pain of his injuries, this grouchy hottie isn’t in the mood for the perky physical therapist who makes him in ache in more than one place.
Jordan Mueller doesn’t have time for a sulky ex-NFL player, even one who looks like Tanner. She’s done with falling for the bad boy without a heart. When she’s forced out of her apartment and offered an opportunity too good to pass up, she agrees to move in with Tanner. She’s only there to speed up his recovery. No funny business, even if her body is telling her otherwise. As Tanner and Jordan spend more and more time together, they begin to see each other in a new light that threatens to change everything. But when the ghosts of girlfriends past reappear, Tanner must decide if he’s willing to put everything on the line for a shot at a future with Jordan.
Tanner Cole grabbed the remote off the couch cushions and clicked through the two hundred or so channels on his satellite TV. Daytime TV sucked. Even worse: it sucked yesterday, the day before, and the day before that too. But it wasn’t like he had a lot of choices for entertainment right now. His knee was slowly healing, but mostly, he wanted to be left alone while he tried to figure out how he was going to deal with the rest of his life.
He was a professional football player. Well, he used to be. He’d torn both his ACL and MCL and broken his tibia after planting his cleats on some shitty turf in Washington, DC, during the last two minutes of a fucking blowout he shouldn’t have been playing in in the first place. His coach had practically begged him to sit on the bench that afternoon and spend a few minutes powering down some Gatorade while his backup took the risk of injury instead. In the coach’s defense, “practically begging” meant he glanced over at Tanner and said, “why don’t you have a seat, and we’ll finish this one for you?” But Tanner had insisted that cold afternoon in Washington. He’d played anyway. And his career was ended because of a freak hit by a rookie who thought he was making his mark by permanently sidelining one of the best left tackles in the league. Winners didn’t sit on the bench. Winners went out there and dominated, in football and in life. He remembered every buzzword and cliché-laden locker-room speech he’d heard in his career, typically when he was lying away at three AM and wishing he had that thirty seconds or so before his injury back again. He’d wanted to make the decision when it was time to hang it up. That was taken away from him. He wasn’t happy about it. People (specifically his ex-girlfriend) were not as willing to put up with his various personality flaws when he wasn’t headline news anymore. He could tick off those shortcomings on his fingers, and he’d done so more than once while alone in the predawn hours. According to his ex, Star, he was too overbearing, too competitive, too impatient, and too insensitive. She didn’t seem to care about his faults when he was ordering $150 bottles of champagne at the club or buying her a little somethin’ somethin’ at the jeweler’s or the latest designer shoes and bags. He’d wanted to believe their breakup was all her fault, but being alone for a few months brought some clarity. He was as much to blame for the end of their relationship. He’d have to man up at some point and make an apology. Before he met with the surgeon who was putting his knee back together, Tanner had been told by the team’s doctor that he wasn’t going to play football again. “With your age and these types of injuries, you’re not going to be able to pass any team’s physical, even after rehab. I know this isn’t how you wanted things to end,” the doctor said. “No, it isn’t,” Tanner said. “Look at it this way: it’s a great chance to get on with the rest of your life.” Tanner knew the guy was just doing his job, but he was already sick of people telling him to look on the bright side. He’d be damned lucky if he walked with a limp. Right now, he’d be happy if he could get off the couch and walk to the mailbox without a walker.
USA Today bestselling author Julie Brannagh has been writing since she was old enough to hold a pencil. She lives in a small town near Seattle, where she once served as a city council member and owned a yarn shop. She shares her home with a wonderful husband, two uncivilized Maine Coons and a rambunctious chocolate Lab. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, or armchair-quarterbacking her favorite NFL team from the comfort of the family room couch. Julie is a Golden Heart finalist and the author of contemporary sports romances.
AUTHOR LINKS Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon
A shy soul and an adventurous heart. As the holidays approach, can they find happiness together?
Maria Anne Davis was on her way to an exciting career as a chef in Dallas, until a terrible car accident left her blind. Ever resilient, Maria has reinvented her life on her own terms, starting a business out of her home kitchen, selling her jams and jellies to the local grocery. Maria loves romance novels, and despite her bold spirit, she fears she’ll never have a big love affair like ones her heroines experience. That is, until she realizes how much she cares about the quiet Wes Whitman, the owner of the grocery. Wes can’t keep Maria’s wildly popular jam on his shelves—just like he can’t keep the fierce, beautiful Maria out of his thoughts. But how could a firecracker like Maria come to love a shy, nervous man like him? Maybe all they need is a grand affair. Wes needs to convince Maria that some affairs last forever, though—just in time for Christmas.
A magical and marvelous Christmas novella about making your dreams come true, finding your home, braving to open your heart for the love and opportunities already in front of you.
With the author's beautiful, nearly poetic style of writing, the wintery scenes of our beloved Ransom Canyon open up and the magic of the season is palpable in the air. Maria Anne Davis is a character from the previous book in the series and deserving all the happiness in the world. She has spunk, courage, and determination beyond measure. The tragic accident the blinded her is not going to rule her life. She has a quirky sense of humor, she loves to read romance novels, and dreams about the kind of wild love affair she has read about. Wes Whitman is a kind soul, with a generous heart. He never dared to hope to find a soul mate or to have a love affair, yet he has been content with his life as it is until Maria walks into his office and kisses him. Oh, how I loved these two shy, bashful people finding the courage to ask what they want in life and go for it without reservations. They share their dreams and deepest wishes with each other, holding on to each moment together like it is the last one. Yet sometimes life is superior to daydreams and wishes, sometimes the wildest hopes and deepest desires do come true. A beautiful and alluring story that had me smiling and sighing throughout with sheer joy and bliss for the characters. A delightful Christmas novella surely to entertain and make you feel all warm inside. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Breaking the Cowboy's Rules
Wildhorse Ranch Brothers Book 1
by Leslie North
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Ranch owner, Trevor Wild, loves nothing more than spending his day in the saddle riding in the Texas sun. He’s passionate about being the latest generation of Wild man to breed quarter horses on Wildhorse Ranch. But in the aftermath of inheriting a bad business deal the Ranch is in serious financial trouble, and this serious cowboy needs to look outside the box to save his family’s pride and joy.
Glamping guru, Sabrina Hearthstone, is the best of the best at what she does, and she could very well be Trevor’s saving grace. The blonde beauty arrives at Wildhorse Ranch ready to get the job done. She’s all business when it comes to bringing a little luxury to the leather and dirt clad Ranch. But soon she’ll realize that to renovate the Ranch for Glamping she may have to renovate it’s cowboy too.
Sabrina is tempting on a whole lot of levels for Trevor--when he gives into both her touch, and the 1,000 thread count bed sheets, he finds that she soothes his soul. However, Sabrina’s world is a difficult thing for the hardened cowboy to accept. Trevor will have to learn to accept Sabrina and her changes to his world, not only to save Wildhorse Ranch, but to save a love he never expected to find.
"Huh?" Sabrina glanced up to take him in again, and dropped the side of the log she was holding. Trevor grimaced and set his end down, also. The way his mouth tended to frown naturally—and only deepen when he was annoyed or working—distinguished him from his more approachable twin brother.
"No…I mean, wow. You really aren't, are you?" Now that Sabrina had halted operations, Trevor straightened to regard her in turn. The way she looked him over, with eyes as wide and summer-blue as the Texas sky, made him acutely aware of just how closely they stood. "No. I really am not," he agreed. He wondered how much Trent let her get away with while he was gone. Sabrina Hearthstone had a face as pretty as an angel's—pair that with her ridiculously tight, stone-washed designer jeans, and he doubted his brother had been willing to deny her much. She was the living, breathing lyric of a country song standing before him—the worshipped, vaunted city girl—and for the first time, Trevor contemplated how much trouble he might be in having her on his property. At least they had managed to agree on one important detail so far: he wasn't his brother Trent. While the Sheriff of Lockhart Bend might be willing to let certain behaviors slide, Trevor expected a rigid adherence to his rules. If she already found him more serious, more commanding, than his twin brother, then it might make his job a hell of a lot easier. "So, you must be Trevor," Sabrina deduced. "The owner. Unless you're triplets I wasn't aware of," she appeared to mutter to herself. She extended a slender hand to him, and Trevor removed one of his gloves before taking it in his own. He wondered what his callouses must feel like rubbing against her soft skin. She didn't draw back immediately, which he also found curious. They held the handshake a few seconds longer than strictly necessary before Sabrina withdrew and flushed a little. "Sorry I mistook you for your brother," she apologized. "I guess I didn't realize you'd be back today." "I keep to a schedule," Trevor stated. "Which is something you're throwing off already, Miss Hearthstone." He nodded toward the scraps she had accumulated on the porch. "I’m tossing that wood out in the quarterly clear-out.” She stared at him blankly. “That's tomorrow. You want to keep any of it for arts and crafts, I expect you to go through it all today." "Excuse me, Mr. Wild, but this isn't for arts and crafts," Sabrina protested. She gestured toward her woodpile selections. "This is upcycling! I'm going to make good use of this stuff. If we want to attract customers and garner favorable reviews, then we're going to need to liven up the living spaces with a few rustic decorations." Upcycling. Great. Another made-up word. Trevor hooked his thumbs in his belt and didn't budge an inch, predicting his silence would be enough to settle the matter. Generally speaking, it was. Today, however, his natural powers of intimidation appeared to be diminished after the long drive. Sabrina had her hands on her hips, her dark pink lips pursed in challenge. For the life of him he couldn't decide if her expression was meant to convey a fight or invite a kiss. "And it's going to take me longer than a day to figure out what I can and can't use here," she clarified. "You signed a contract," he said. "And part of that contract clearly states you agree to adhere to the ranch's schedule." And my rules, he was going to add, before Sabrina interrupted him unexpectedly. "How about time for coffee?" she said. She turned away from him to start up the front steps to the porch, before throwing offhand over her shoulder: "I assume there's room in the ranch's schedule for that?" The offer sounded like a tactical maneuver rather than a true invitation, but he followed her up the steps to the bunkhouse despite his suspicion. He couldn’t help noticing the sequins studded around the back pockets of her jeans. The detail--and only that detail—drew his attention to Sabrina's pert hindquarters. She sure could fill a pair of impractical pants. The denim might as well have been painted onto those shapely, athletic legs of hers. He doubted she could fully bend over in them but would have been willing to be proved wrong. "You were at a conference, right? How did it go?" Sabrina smiled perkily as she took the bunkhouse pot off the burner and poured them each a mug of coffee. Trevor hovered in the doorway, studying her change in expression and still wondering if he was being taken for a ride. He would have thought then that she certainly had the cheerful demeanor to be successful in her chosen profession…if he didn't still have doubts that her chosen profession actually existed. "It went fine." The impromptu conference had given him a lot to chew on, and he felt cautiously optimistic about the future of Wildhorse's breeding program for the first time since he had taken a chance and hired an adventure coordinator. If he was being honest with himself, he didn't like the fact that he had to call on Trent to help Sabrina move in. Trevor was the ranch owner, and he would have rather seen to the matter himself—but his meeting with the other breeders in the area couldn't be put on hold. He accepted the mug of coffee Sabrina handed him and settled back against the porch railing. The blonde leaned against the outside of the bunkhouse, crossing her legs and folding her arms, pursing her kissable lips and blowing steam off her own mug. "I got in touch with your company originally because the ranch needs another source of income," he began. "Obviously." She flexed a grin to let him know she was on the same page. "But I'm not giving up the quarter horse breeding program. It's what we've done here for three generations, since my grandad's day. It's the heart and soul of this ranch, and it's what Wildhorse is known for." Trevor scowled, hoping to stamp his next point home. "So, I don't want our programs intersecting, Miss Hearthstone. You see to coordinating the campers and keep them out of my hair, and I go about my business as usual, including paying your company’s fee." "Fine, Mr. Wild. Just so long as you understand what I most certainly won't be doing is keeping our campers out of the stables," Sabrina fired back. "You can't expect anyone to have even a half-baked glamping experience—nor can you expect them to spread positive word-of-mouth and leave us glowing reviews—if our customers aren't even allowed to experience the horses. You tell me what barns to stay out of, and I will—but judging by the tour Trent gave me, there's plenty of stable space for all of us. Besides," Sabrina continued as she smiled once more, "contrary to what you may think, I've been around horses before. I happen to know that most ranch animals enjoy the extra attention and go on to live happy, more fulfilled lives as a result. You wouldn't deny your horses that, would you?" Trevor didn't like that she was pushing for such a huge compromise already, but now seemed like the perfect time to segue into what he really wanted to talk about: rules. He withdrew a folded set of documents from the inner pocket of his jacket and passed them to her. "Then you stick to the schedule I've laid out for you," he said. He allowed himself a moment to privately relish the look of horror that crossed her face. He had guessed from the start that she was the type of woman to flout the rules, but he intended to put an end to that behavior before it had even begun. He sipped his coffee and watched as Sabrina riffled through the multi-page document. "This is…why are there checklists?" she asked incredulously. She rattled the pages at him. "Do you actually expect me to fill these out and turn them back in to you?"
Leslie North is the USA Today Bestselling pen name for a critically-acclaimed author of women’s contemporary romance and fiction. The anonymity gives her the perfect opportunity to paint with her full artistic palette, especially in the romance and erotic fantasy genres.
The truth of the matter is she loves her fictional persona, Leslie North, more than her normal, day-to-day persona! Her bestselling books focus on strong characters and particularly women who aren’t afraid to challenge an alpha male. Inspired after years of travel, her stories are set all over the world, from the tough streets of Russia to the beautiful beaches of the middle east.
Leslie fell in love with romance when she first picked up a scrappy, dog-eared romance book from her local library. She began writing soon after and the rest, as they say, was history. She now lives in a cozy cottage on the British coast and enjoys taking long walks with her two Dalmatians, George and Fergie.
She LOVES reader feedback, and if you have any comments, don’t hesitate to contact her!
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
MISTLETOE MEMORY LOSS
Assaulted a week before a high-profile drug trafficking trial, assistant district attorney Madison Callahan narrowly escapes death…but suffers amnesia. Now, when she can't recall the identity of her attacker, everyone is suspect—except the handsome policeman who saved her. Officer Noah Sinclair will do anything to bring the mob-connected drug trafficker to justice, including providing personal protection to Madison—the sister of the partner he nearly got killed. But helping her regain her memory may end their unlikely alliance because once she remembers him, Noah might be the last man she'll want to rely on. As the trial looms and with the assailant dead set on ensuring that Madison doesn't survive to see Christmas, it'll take everything Noah's got to keep Madison alive.
With the riveting, mortal action the story snatched my attention immediately, and it was impossible to put the book down until the very satisfying and sweet ending to the compelling story.
I love how the author mixes the three elements in the story, the suspense, the romance, and faith in God the characters live by. The tale has a natural flow, all the details are well bound together, fitting with each other like pieces of a puzzle. Officer Noah Sinclair lives with guilt and regrets. He is capable, take charge police officer, yet he has a tender soul that easily assumes the liability and responsibility when things go wrong. He has passion and dedication to his work but will go to great lengths to avoid personal relationships to avoid hurt and disappointment. I liked Noah, he is sincere, kind, considerate man earnestly looking for peace of mind. He struggles with his remorse and with his faith making him human and easy to relate to. Assistant district attorney Madison Callahan is in danger of her life and suffering from a temporary amnesia after an attack. With threats, assaults, and attempts to her life coming at her continuously, the only time she feels safe and secure is with Noah. Madison is a fun, determined, and capable woman. She knows who she is, what she is able to, and what she has to offer. Her guiding light in life is her unwavering faith in God and she is not ashamed to show it. Her direct approach with everything in life was endearing and challenging at the same time. She is the type of woman most of us aim to be and I liked her immensely. To balance the need to stay safe, to stay alive, and continue the prosecution of the dangerous drug dealer and the investigation of the recent attacks, Noah and Madison go into hiding, giving them ample time to get to know each other better and find a unique, treasured connection and bond, counsel each other with the matters of life, loss, and faith, doubts and uncertainties they feel and face. I found their conversations to be encouraging and inspirational, the wisdom they shared with each other easy to apply to life in general. The story leads with enthralling and lethal action and threats, with the constant risk of menace and peril. Yet the sweet, adorable, and heartwarming romance edges in and takes the point before long. The characters faith in God and in His guidance, helps them navigate the hazardous risks and deception they face while fighting for justice and for their lives. Loved every moment of it! ~ Five Spoons
In Italy, the best attractions are always off the beaten path . . .
Mamie Weber doesn’t know why she survived that terrible car accident five years ago. Physically, she has only a slight reminder—but emotionally, the pain is still fresh. Deep down she knows her husband would have wanted her to embrace life again. Now she has an opportunity to do just that, spending two weeks in Tuscany reviewing a tour company for her employer’s popular travel guide series. The warmth of the sun, the centuries-old art, a villa on the Umbrian border—it could be just the adventure she needs. But with adventure comes the unexpected . . . like discovering that her entire tour group is made up of aging ex-hippies reminiscing about their Woodstock days. Or finding herself drawn to the guide, Julian, who is secretly haunted by a tragedy of his own, and seems to disapprove any time she tries something remotely risky—like an impromptu scooter ride with a local man. As they explore the hilltop towns of Tuscany, Mamie knows that when this blissful excursion is over, she’ll have to return to reality. But when you let yourself wander, life can take some interesting detours . . .
A lovely, picturesque journey through Tuscany that brings together two lost souls in need of a change in life who find out that some of the best, most life filled adventures could be those that does not challenge you physically yet still scares you immensely.
When this book was first introduced to me, the blurb that accompanied the invitation reminded me of a movie 'Under the Tuscan Sun'. That movie touched my heart and was an inspirational experience to me, so I was eager to read this book to see if it could be as riveting and thought-provoking, even life-changing as the movie was to me. The pleasant flow of the story with expressive writing makes it enjoyable to read the sweet story that is appropriate for all ages. The scenery from the tour in Italy opened up in my mind's eyes, and the beautiful, colorful landscapes were vividly clear in my mind. To visit Italy again, even via the story, was such a pleasure. The views, the attractions, the people, the lifestyle, the food, the smells, the chaos of traffic, and the joie de vivre of the locals filled my senses making me smile. The cast of characters on this journey were jovial, genuine, and true individuals. They seemed to have left their worries behind, and were just enjoying the moment, the company and everything the trip would offer them. Mamie Weber was escaping her past, the grief of losing her family and trying to learn to embrace life again, to challenge herself both physically and mentally, to be out there, be vulnerable, to be brave, and to learn to trust again, not only others but herself as well. Julian is in mourning as well. His regrets from his past, adventure-filled life are hunting his sleep and mind. He leans on his new job's rules and regulations to have control in his life, a control that Mamie challenges with her own attempts to live fully again. The journey is a sweet, delightful ride, filled with emotions from bliss and glee to angst and tears. The biggest challenge both Mamie and Julian have to face is their past and the fears that spring from the memories. After such an enjoyable expedition with the unique characters, the abrupt ending felt odd, leaving me wanting more in a sense of conclusion. A pilgrimage to find your true self again, to learn to trust and embrace life fully, while enjoying the gorgeous scenery of Tuscany. An entertaining and charming tale with a smooth, easygoing flow ~ Four Spoons
Sharon Struth believes you’re never too old to pursue a dream. The Hourglass, her debut novel, is a finalist in the National Readers' Choice Awards for Best first Book, and her Blue Moon Lake Novels include the bestseller, Share the Moon.
When she’s not working, she and her husband happily sip their way through the scenic towns of the Connecticut Wine Trail, travel the world, and enjoy spending time with their precious pets and two grown daughters. She writes from the friendliest place she’s ever lived, Bethel, Connecticut. For more information, including where to find her published essays, please visit sharonstruth.com or visit her blog, Musings from the Middle Ages & More at www.sharonstruth.wordpress.com. Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter GIVEAWAYSilver Dagger Book Tours for LADY ELEANOR’S SEVENTH SUITOR (The Sutherlands Series) by Anna Bradley10/10/2017
LADY ELEANOR’S SEVENTH SUITOR
The Sutherlands Series Book 1
by Anna Bradley
Genre: Historical Romance
Pub Date: 9/5/2017
Two sought-after sisters, a slew of suitors—and a vow to hold out for true love. How many proposals will it take to get to “I do”—especially when the stakes are high . . .
There have been six suitors so far, all vying for the attention—and generous dowry—of the beautiful, elusive Eleanor Sutherland. What does this woman really want? Who has what it takes to melt the heart of the so-called Lady Ice? These are the questions Camden West keeps asking himself. But rather than wait for answers, Cam takes matters into his own hands . . . for he has a secret weapon.
Cam knows that Ellie’s sister, Charlotte, harbors a scandalous secret—one that could bring ruin to the Sutherland name. If Ellie marries him, Cam promises to keep mum. But is she willing to sacrifice her own happiness for her sister’s reputation?
To Ellie’s surprise, it becomes clear that Cam doesn’t need her money, nor is he interested in her status. Soon, what begins as a sham engagement transforms into something deeper, and more passionate, than Ellie could have imagined. Is it possible that all Cam truly wanted was her? And is that reason enough to say yes—or is handsome Cam hiding something else? Even for a lady in love, only the truth will do . . .
London, 1815
Chapter One Lady Eleanor Sutherland clutched her fan and studied the young lord before her, a polite smile frozen on her face, her heart sinking into her slippers. Lord Tidmarsh had placed a wager on her in the betting book at White’s. Ellie didn’t want to believe it of him, but she’d seen this performance— the shifty eyes and twitchy fingers, the sheen of nervous sweat on his upper lip, the hint of a smirk on his lower one—too many times to deny the truth. Yes, his lordship was definitely in the throes of a violent, and feigned, passion. She knew a sham suitor when she saw one. Lord Tidmarsh was her third this season. Several weeks ago she’d rejected her fifth marriage offer—one offer too many, she now realized, for the gentlemen of the ton to overlook. Since then it had become quite the fashionable game for them to attempt to pry some sign of affection from her. They teased for dances, begged for smiles. A few of the bolder ones had even written sonnets to her sparkling dark eyes. My heart flies, my soul cries, and so forth. It was enough to make one shudder for the fate of the rhyming couplet. Alas, whoever had said a single sonnet could drive love entirely away had the right of it. It wasn’t a romantic sentiment, perhaps, but true for all that. The same could be said of wagers. Ellie had her own page in the betting book at White’s. A smile from her would earn her swain a sovereign, a walk on the terrace was worth five guineas, and as for the higher denominations . . . well, perhaps the less said about that the better, though she did wonder what value they’d placed on her virtue. As for her love . . . It must be worthless indeed, for not one of the gentlemen seemed at all interested in securing it. “Won’t you favor me with a smile, my lady?” Lord Tidmarsh dragged a gloved hand across his damp forehead. “You know I exist only for your smiles.” Poor Lord Tidmarsh might be able to produce a bit of perspiration, but she couldn’t see any other signs of impending manhood. Not a single whisker shaded his smooth upper lip. She’d have settled for the merest hint of fuzz, even—anything to indicate a hair had tried to hatch there. “Will you consent to one more dance this evening? Please, Lady Eleanor.” She sighed. It had come to this, then. She’d be compelled to rebuff a mere lad this time. The ton already called her Lady Frost behind her back, and once she sent young Lord Tidmarsh on his way, she was sure to be saddled with a far worse nickname. Icy Ellie, perhaps, or the Artic Queen? But the sooner she put an end to this scene, the better. “I beg you’ll excuse me, my lord. I’ve already danced twice with you this evening. If we dance together again, the ton will gossip, and—” “Would that be so terrible?” He arranged his lips into a perfect schoolboy pout. She pasted a smile onto her face. “Now, Lord Tidmarsh, you know very well a third dance will encourage Lady Foster’s guests to assume we have an understanding. We wouldn’t want that, would we?” “But we could have an understanding, even now. It’s the very thing I want.” He pressed her fingers against his bony chest, his face twisted with a passable imitation of passionate despair. Eleanor tried to withdraw her hand, but he hung on with such determination her arm began to slip out of her glove. Well, how absurd. She would have her hand back, even if it meant he ended with her limp glove clutched to his chest. “I’ll run mad if you refuse me, Lady Eleanor. Indeed I will!” Eleanor’s cheeks heated with embarrassment. Must all of her pretend suitors fall into wild hysterics? Next he’d fall to his knees, beat his chest, and tear his hair out from the roots. Another tragic hero, right here in the middle of the Foster’s ballroom. She supposed it was more amusing if he fell into fits. Whichever lord had sent him to torment her would want to see the thing done with a dramatic flourish. No doubt Lord Ponsonby, Mr. Fitzwilliam, or another of her rejected suitors was watching the entire performance from a shadowy corner of the ballroom. Eleanor straightened her spine. Well, there was no help for it. Lady Frost would have to make an appearance. A pang of guilt pierced her chest for Lord Tidmarsh’s tender young heart, but if he had any true affection for her, it was a flimsy thing, at best. She fixed him with a steady gaze, and after a moment his blue eyes darted guiltily away. Ah. Just as she’d thought. A dare, or a wager. “I must insist you release me.” He clutched at her fingers. “But Lady Eleanor, I swear—” “At once, my lord.” He studied her for a moment, no doubt hunting for some tenderness in her eyes, some hint of breathlessness, some softening of her lips. Eleanor gazed back at him, her face expressionless. He dropped her hand and stepped back. “Very well. I wish you a pleasant evening, madam.” It was far more likely he wished her to the devil, just like the rest of them, but it wouldn’t do to say so. “How kind you are, my lord.” He folded his lanky frame into a stiff bow, turned on his heel, and disappeared into the crowd. Eleanor watched him go, her chin raised as she fought the urge to let her shoulders slump in defeat. Just as she’d suspected. Flimsy.
Don’t miss the second title in The Sutherland’s series, coming October 2017!
LADY CHARLOTTE’S FIRST LOVE
Pub Date: 10/3/2017
From spirited young woman to reckless widow, the beautiful Marchioness of Hadley remains a force to be reckoned with. But beneath her antics lies a broken heart . . .
Since her husband’s tragic death, Lady Charlotte Hadley has embarked on a path of careless behavior and dangerous hijinks from which no one can divert her . . . until suddenly, her first—and only—true love reenters her world. Their fiery romance was so scandalous Charlotte had no choice but to marry another, more suitable man. Surely now they are both free to pick up where they left off . . .
Julian West has returned to London a hero after making a name for himself in battle at Waterloo. Every woman is vying for his attention—except the one who stole his heart. No matter, Julian has other obligations. But when Charlotte’s sister, Eleanor, charges him with protecting the widow from ruin, what ensues is another kind of battle—one that leads a chase from London’s bars and brothels to the finest country estate as Julian and Charlotte untangle a host of secrets, regrets, and misunderstandings. For could it be that the love they’ve forced themselves to forget is exactly what they need to remember? . . .
Don’t miss the third title in The Sutherland’s series, coming November 2017!
TWELFTH NIGHT WITH THE EARL
Pub Date: 10/3/2017
When a headstrong beauty clashes with the man she once loved, she’s determined that the spirit of Christmas will open his mind, heal his heart, and perhaps give them a reason to celebrate—for many seasons to come . . .
As far as Ethan Fortescue is concerned, his family’s seat in Cornwall is only a source of torment, one that he’s managed to avoid for two years. Now that he’s the Earl of Devon however, he can close the door on his haunted past by locking up the cursed place for good. But upon arriving at Cleves Court, he is shocked to find the house aglow with Christmas celebrations, filled with music and laughter. And right at the center of the holiday madness is the infuriating—and eternally tempting—Theodosia Sheridan . . .
Thea has always loved the town of Cleves, especially at the holidays. As a girl, she also loved Ethan with all her heart. It’s painful to see how his brother’s tragic death has embittered him. Still, she will do anything to make sure the town thrives—even if it means going to battle with Ethan to save Cleves Court. Now she has only until Twelfth Night to make a Christmas miracle happen—by proving that his childhood home can be a source of love and wonder. But before long, she finds herself wondering if she’s trying to save the house—or its handsome master…
Anna Bradley is the author of The Sutherland Scandals novels. A Maine native, she now lives near Portland, OR, where people are delightful and weird and love to read. She teaches writing and lives with her husband, two children, a variety of spoiled pets, and shelves full of books. Visit her website at annabradley.net.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts and a giveaway!
Her secret Christmas wish
Dr. Grace Forbes's dramatic first day in Manhattan Mercy ER is unforgettable—especially when she runs into her old flame, ER chief Charles Davenport, again! That spark is still there between them but they're different people now—after losing his wife, Charles is a single dad to adorable twin boys, while Grace has survived cancer but lost her dream of having children. Yet, as the weather gets colder, she is drawn into the warmth of his family—could he make her Christmas wish come true?
An emotional and heartwarming tale of finding your place in the world, following your destiny, and finding your true north.
I absolutely adore the connection between Dr. Grace Forbes and ER chief Dr. Charles Davenport. They met in medical school, the spark was evident between them even then, but life happened just when they had a chance to build something lasting, and they were drifted apart. But they get a second chance with the connection and possibilities if life just would not interfere again. I admire that Charles did not dilute the bond, the spark, the meaning Grace had for him, even when he had a chance for it several times. He stood up for his feelings, he messes up, sure, no one is perfect, but he is willing to go the extra mile to prove his love, his level of commitment, and the depth of his feelings. That's what I love about reading romance novels about mentally mature people, they don't hide their feelings and intentions. Charles' twin boys would melt anyone's heart, and they sure won me over. The boys and Houston gave some humorous moments to the tale, kept me smiling like a loon. The medical knowledge the author has is beyond reproach. She knows what she is talking about, she shares her knowledge with intense scenes where life and death are in the balance, yet using language that didn't go over my head while reading the story. The hectic life at the ER sounds realistic and practical. A poignant and touching story of two soul mates getting a second chance to build a relationship despite all the life's challenges - the hectic life of the ER, the losses in life, and life-altering illnesses, even the relentlessly hunting paparazzis. ~ Four Spoons
**All books are standalone and have a sexy version and a “sweet” (clean) version!!
Accounting For Love
Long Valley Romances 1
by Erin Wright
Genre: Contemporary Western Romance
Is she the answer to his dreams … or the person who will be forced to destroy them?
He’s a farmer, dammit, not a bookkeeper
When Stetson Miller inherits his father’s farm in Idaho, he’s too focused on crops and yields to pay attention to the financial side of things. The next thing he knows, he’s got a stack of unpaid bills, the bank is threatening to foreclose … and the auditor who’s come to examine his accounts is the sexiest thing he’s ever laid eyes on.
But she’s a city girl, just like the last one who left him at the altar. He’ll guard his heart – but he can’t help wanting her.
She’s checking him out … in more ways than one
Jennifer Kendall doesn’t mind a tough job, but the handsome Stetson is trouble of a different kind. When he isn’t making her mad, he’s filling her head with all sorts of forbidden fantasies.
The sparks between them fly even faster when the road washes out and Jennifer has to spend the night on the farm. But passion alone won’t pay the bills. Can Jennifer find a way for Stetson to save his farm?
And if she can’t, will he ever forgive her?
Accounting for Love is the first novel in the Long Valley world, although all books in the Long Valley world can be read as standalones. It has some strong language, and oh my, sexy times. If you would prefer the sweet version, it is also available on Amazon. Either way, enjoy!
“How the hell am I supposed to organize this crap?” Stetson groaned, shoving his hand through his hair. The back of his neck was burning hot with anger.
Spending time in the small room always made Stetson uncomfortable. Sometimes, he was simply annoyed by the boring work that was done in the office. Other times, sitting in the room would flat-out anger him. Memories would flood his mind, reminding him of his father’s death. Consequently, he spent as little time in the office as possible. Real farming happened in the fields, dammit. He shuffled papers from one stack to another and back again. The small office was closer to being a closet than it was an office, but his father had kept the little room spotless. Stetson, on the other hand, had let that organization disappear in the months since his father’s death. Small drawers labeled “Cattle Receipts” and “Parts Receipts,” among other expenses, were only half closed. Thin yellow and pink papers fanned out from the overstuffed drawers like the back end of a turkey. “When that jerk gets here, I’m gonna give him a piece of my mind!” he ranted. “I’m really gonna let him have it. That stupid bastard isn’t gonna come in here and take everything. I’ll shove his teeth down his throat first,” Stetson muttered. “I’ll take him outside and beat the living hell outta him. I’ll—” From behind him, Carmelita cleared her throat. Stetson turned slowly in the beat-up office chair. Standing just outside the office door was his housekeeper/cook, and she looked pissed. The short Hispanic woman had worked for the Miller family longer than Stetson had been alive. Technically she was an employee, but after so much time and dedication, she was family, and she knew it. Carmelita folded her arms across her chest and glared daggers at him. Carmelita didn’t allow foul language in her house. Stetson’s name may be on the deed, but as long as Carmelita ran things, her house was run by her rules. Carmelita had helped raise him and his brothers. Before his mother had died, Carmelita had always filled the role of grandmother, but after Mom was gone, she made sure the boys, especially Stetson, didn’t go hog-wild on her. She was astute enough to never try to replace his mother, but she did help fill in the gaps. Behind his formidable housekeeper stood…a woman? Younger than he’d expected and much more…female than he’d expected. She was a head taller than Carmelita, and if he hadn’t already decided to hate her, his first reaction would have been to get his hands on her in an entirely different way. Or at least do everything in his power to get his hands on her number. His face turned an even deeper shade of red, and he stared at the duo for just a moment. Dammit, any chance he may have of endearing himself to the…female auditor was gone. Why’d they have to go and send a woman, anyway? Any hopes of landing a nice right-hook on the auditor’s face had just disappeared. Stetson’s anger toward the bank grew even more. This was a dirty trick to send a woman. He knew they figured sending a woman would cut down on the yelling and fighting. He wanted to yell at the auditor. He wanted to tell a pencil-necked asshole just what he thought of this audit, but instead that slimy bank was using the underhanded trick of sending a woman. They hoped that he wouldn’t be the kind of man who would yell and rage at a woman. They were right, dammit. Giving up hope of winning over (or at least punching) the bank employee, he decided to ignore the warning look Carmelita was sending him. Screw them all. There was nothing that would entice him to be nice to the bank, no matter what shapely form the bank came in. “Hi,” the woman said, extending her hand toward him. “I’m Jennifer—” She stopped abruptly, Stetson noted with pride. Probably because he was looking down at her hand with all the respect he might give a rotting fish. Good. “I know who you are and why you’re here,” Stetson said flatly. “Let’s get some things straight. First, you’re not staying here. This is not a guest house; you can get a room in town. Second, this is my home, and I’ll not have it invaded by…” he waved his hand in the air, “bank people. You can use the office and the bathroom. The rest of the house and farm is off limits.” Really warming up to the task of putting this woman in her place, he continued, “Third, I’m not paying for the privilege of having my farm stolen from me. If you have to make a phone call, you’ll do it on your own dime. Use your own damn phone, not mine. Fourth, Carmelita serves lunch at noon each day. Because I’m a good host, I’ll let you eat one sandwich with a glass of water, but that’s it. Finally, you’re gonna start at 8 and be gone by 5 every day. No exceptions.” Drawing in a deep breath, he crossed his arms and glared at down her. Damn, it felt good to order the bank around. About time they got a taste of their own medicine.
Blizzard of Love
A country boy who hates Christmas for a reason, dammit …
When Luke Nash runs into Stetson Miller down at the feed store, he never expects his friend to strong-arm him into spending Christmas at the Miller farm. Luke has no patience for Christmas cheer or Yuletide song. And the rugged cowboy definitely has no desire to kiss a girl under the mistletoe. No matter how infuriatingly pretty she might be.
A city girl who loves Christmas …
Bonnie Patterson adores Christmas, so when her best friend Jennifer invites her to spend Christmas at the Miller farm, she jumps at the chance. When she sets out for the snowy country town, she has visions dancing in her head of cozy nights by a crackling fire, not of a hot cowboy with an ice-cold heart.
The Storm of the Century…
Instead of a peaceful holiday in the country, Bonnie gets stranded at the Miller farm by a blizzard. Even worse, she’s snowed-in with Luke, an arrogant, impossible, but damn sexy cowboy.
When the fly sparks, will two people who are oh-so-different find their own Christmas miracle?
Blizzard of Love is the second novella in the Long Valley world, although all books in the Long Valley world can be read as standalones. Blizzard of Love is a sweeter romance with minimal sex and mild language … If you would prefer the completely clean version, it is also available on this storefront. Either way, enjoy!
Luke pulled up in front of the old Miller farmhouse, the Christmas lights that were lining the roofline sparkling in the snow covering the landscape. It looked so festive, so Christmassy and shit.
So unlike his own house. Sticks jumped down from the bed of the truck, his stocky Labrador body navigating the snowdrifts with ease. Luke and Stick’s noses wiggled in the crisp night air, breathing in the smell of…was that pot roast? God, it’s gonna be nice to eat Carmelita’s cooking this weekend. I might end up as fat as Stetson when she’s done with me! Oh, but it’ll be worth it. He knocked once and then, brushing his feet on the welcome mat, pushed open the front door. “I’m here,” he called out. Sticks shook the snow off his fur and then trotted in behind him. “Hello!” Carmelita came bustling into the entryway, the delicious pot roast and…something else trailing in behind her, like the world’s best smelling perfume. Is that cinnamon rolls? I’m pretty sure it’s cinnamon rolls. His stomach rumbled its agreement. “Oh, you poor thing,” Carmelita said in her heavily accented English, taking his jacket and hanging it up in the hall closet. “Dinner will be done soon. You go upstairs and I will tell Stetson and Jennifer you are here.” She bustled off before he could answer, and so he headed up the stairs and down to the far guest bedroom. It was a little less…girly and shit than the other one, so it was the one he usually chose when he spent the night at the Miller’s house. He lay down on the bed for a few minutes, closing his eyes and turning the idea of doing absolutely nothing for an entire weekend over and over again in his mind. This was something he hadn’t done in years. Was he even capable of doing nothing for an entire weekend? He didn’t know. Dammit, am I really only 26 years old? I sound like an old man. Time to stop wallowing in my geriatric ways and get moving. He decided to take a quick detour to the bathroom before heading downstairs, but when he slid the pocket door open, he saw something that he was pretty sure he’d never, ever forget: A half-naked woman, jeans down around her knees, and the most sexy pair of red lace underwear on that he’d ever seen. It was only then that he registered a screaming noise, and realized it was because of him. She was screaming at him. A whole lot of not-very-nice words.
Arrested By Love
Long Valley Romances 3
He’s a fighter, not a lover …
Two years ago, Wyatt Miller lost his family to a drunk driver. His heart broken, he slowly put the pieces of his shattered life back together. Running his thousand-acre ranch from dawn till dusk helps him forget about his broken heart. When he stops a drunk from getting behind the wheel one night, he ends up in a bloody fight … and then behind bars.
She keeps men in line, but has a soft heart …
Abby Connelly takes her work at the Long Valley Jail seriously. She has no dreams of marriage, children, or white-picket fences. All she wants is to do her job and please the only family she has left, her father. But the moment rugged and wounded Wyatt Miller walks into her jail, Abby realizes her heart might just have a change of plans …
But small towns have a way of holding onto big grudges. Wyatt and Abby have an uphill fight to overcome the bad blood between the Miller and Connelly families.
Because redemption never comes easy …
Arrested by Love is the third novel in the Long Valley world, although all books in the Long Valley world can be read as standalones. It has some strong language, and oh my, sexy times. If you would prefer the sweet version, it is also available on Amazon. Either way, enjoy!
Wyatt Miller wandered down the snack aisle of the Mr. Petrol’s at 11:30 at night. Nothing like trying to find dinner in the aisles of a convenience store. Did onion rings and beef jerky count as a balanced diet? He could consider the onion rings to be his vegetables, and the beef jerky to be his protein.
He grimaced. Some days, living in a small town really sucked, where the grocery store prided themselves on being “open late” – all the way until nine at night. He pulled Lay’s Salt & Vinegar off the display. Look, more vegetables. He wasn’t sure a dietician would approve, but then again, there was almost nothing in this convenience store that a dietician would approve of. He really should just drive to Franklin and go grocery shopping there, but that was 30 minutes away and he just didn’t feel like it. When he died, his headstone was going to read, “Too lazy to drive to Franklin; died of a heart attack from eating junk food from Mr. Petrol’s.” Just then, a vehicle pulled up outside. Well, “pulled up” made it sound like the driver was in control of their actions, but as Wyatt watched, his bag of chips forgotten in his hands, he saw the Jeep stop just in time to keep from crashing through the front windows of the convenience store. Oh shit. He knew that Jeep. There was only one orange camo Jeep in the valley. The driver’s side door swung open and out swaggered Richard. Wyatt couldn’t tell if Richard was swaggering because he was so arrogant and full of himself – always a possibility – or because he was drunk – definitely another possibility. Wyatt reminded himself to breathe in, and then out. And then repeat it all over again. He couldn’t react the way he wanted to – a punch to the face – so he needed to just stay calm. That’s what everyone would tell him, anyway. He knew that. It was a matter of remembering that. And doing that. No matter how good a punch to Richard’s face would feel. Richard stumbled into the store and from two aisles over, Wyatt could smell the fumes rolling off him. Drunk it was. Richard managed to make his way over to the beer case without taking out an end-cap display, nothing short of a miracle really, and snagged a 24-pack of Budweiser. A 24-pack? Really? When you’re already this wasted? Wyatt was having a hard time breathing again and he realized that he’d smashed the bag of chips in his hands into a tiny ball, chips spilling onto the floor from the busted seams of the bag. Richard didn’t seem to notice the noise, though, swinging the 24-pack up onto the counter and swiping his debit card moments later. Breathe in, breathe out. Wyatt was hoping that at any moment, the cashier would stop him. Surely, he’d realize that giving Richard more beer at this point was a truly awful idea. Right? Richard took his beer and began stumbling towards the door. The cashier wasn’t going to stop him. Wyatt could feel the rage begin to boil up inside of him. “Why did you sell him that beer?!” The words burst out of Wyatt like gunfire. He couldn’t stop himself from asking any more than he could stop himself from breathing. “Dude, do you know who that is?” the cashier responded with a shrug. “Of course I know who that is,” Wyatt ground out. “Well, my probation is almost up. Just a month more and I’m out of the system. I’m not pissing off the judge’s son.” That was it. Wyatt threw the mangled bag of chips to the floor and sprinted for the door. He wasn’t about to stand by and let Richard take someone’s life because he happened to share genetic material with the only judge in town. Oh hell no. He burst out the front door of Mr. Petrol’s. Richard had finally managed to get his key into the ignition and turn it. Wyatt grabbed the door handle and yanked it open. “Whaddya want, killer?” Richard slurred, blearily focusing his eyes on Wyatt. “Hello, brother. Nice to see you again.” Wyatt pulled back his fist and planted it squarely in the middle of Dick’s nose.
Overdue for Love
Long Valley Romances 6
Can true love prevail against prejudice and deceit?
After a bitter betrayal, Dawson Blackhorse won’t allow anyone to run roughshod over his heart again … especially not the woman he was once foolish enough to trust.
The rodeo circuit gave Dawson an escape after his racist boss ran him off. Hank Bartell made it clear no man who was part-Navajo, would buy his ranch or court his daughter. In a single moment, the man destroyed every one of Dawson’s dreams.
But when the rodeo brings him to the tiny mountain town of Sawyer, Idaho, he comes face to face with everything he lost.
For nine years, Chloe Bartell hasn’t been able to forget the man who abandoned her. Especially not when she looks into the eyes of their son.
The quiet life Chloe leads in the small town of Sawyer is shattered the day Dawson comes to compete in the rodeo. He’s everything she remembers and more. Gorgeous. Muscular. Six foot and change of sexy cowboy. She watches helplessly as he comes face to face with the son he never knew he had. Dawson demands answers but Chloe is determined to keep her distance. When sparks fly, the fire they ignite threatens to burn down the walls she’s built around her broken heart.
Will the pain and loss of their past drive them apart for good? Or can they forgive each other and build a new life, a life they always dreamed of…
Overdue for Love is the sixth novella in the Long Valley world, although all books in the Long Valley world can be read as standalones. It has some strong language, and oh my, sexy times. If you would prefer the sweet version, please check out the other listing for this book. Either way, enjoy!
Dawson Blackhorse watched through narrowed eyes as Chloe Bartell sashayed toward the doors of the stable. He pretended not to notice the way she paused in the open doorway, giving him a deliberate look, and wiggled, a display that was emphasized by the short, tight denim shorts that barely encased her supple cheeks. Dawson was schooled at keeping his expression blank, but he couldn’t keep his groin from tightening at the sight. Thankfully, he was standing in a horse stall that blocked her view of him from the waist down. He allowed himself a faint twitch of his lips at her annoyed expression as she flounced off.
As she stormed away, her ass cheeks bouncing as she went, he allowed himself to drink his fill of her lush frame. The sun sparkled off the long fall of blonde hair nearly touching her waist, along with the light copper hue of her skin, burnished to a warm sheen by the Arizona sun in which Chloe had languished all summer. Being the only child of a very rich father meant a whole lot of spare time to spend out in the sun in tiny bikinis and oversized sunglasses. Dawson had been able to spend a…considerable amount of time admiring that particular clothing combination. With a curse, he turned back to the stall and began mucking it out again. If he dared to touch her, that’d be the end of his job and his chance to own the Bartell Ranch. Dawson paused for a moment and used a handkerchief to wipe the sweat from his brow, not sure if it was mucking the stalls or staring at Chloe that had caused him to sweat more. He had to do something about Chloe before he gave into temptation. That would cost him everything. She was only twenty – a baby, really – and had always been sheltered by her doting and stupidly rich father. She was naïve and just had no idea what the world was really like. Could she understand how much it meant to him to own the ranch? Could she understand that he might want her but that sure as hell didn’t mean he could act on it? Hank had hired Dawson to work the ranch, and had even allowed him to work toward buying it someday, but he was under no illusion the other man would welcome a part-Navajo ranch hand into the Bartell family tree, anymore than he’d welcome in a one-eyed, snaggletoothed possum. Nope, Dawson had to keep his hands to himself, no matter how much she wiggled her ass at him. With a curse that’d burn the hair off a hog, he turned back to the stall and began heaving the straw and manure into the wheelbarrow with a little more force than was necessary. If he couldn’t screw himself into a stupor, he could work himself into one. For now, that’d have to do. * * * The day passed in a blur of heat and manual labor, and it was a relief to finish around dinnertime. The heat of the Sonoran sun beat down on his shoulders as he made his way to the bunkhouse to grab a shower. It felt good to wash the sweat off and put on clean clothes before making his way to the main house, where Martha would have enough food to feed an army, or at least six hungry ranch hands. With Hank’s wife long gone, Martha had taken over the duties of feeding the ranch hands and the Bartell family, along with keeping up on the housework in the home. She refused to clean the bunkhouse, though, which Dawson couldn’t blame her for. Going in there on a warm summer’s day when no one had bothered to do laundry for a week… The smell could get a little on the overwhelming side. He found three of the other men seated when he entered, and the remaining ranch hands trickled in soon after. Hank and Chloe were last. That was no surprise. Thank heavens Hank didn’t make them wait for Chloe to show up before he allowed the ranch hands to eat. Either she wanted to make an entrance every night, or she had no idea how to read a watch. Her hair – curled and hair sprayed within an inch of its life – and makeup so thick astronauts were checking it out, made it damn obvious she was no stranger to primping. Dawson was sure she’d look a sight better without all that junk smeared on her face and products plastered in her hair, but he wasn’t about to tell her that. She was too gorgeous by half, and he didn’t want to give her the idea that he was paying attention to her appearance. He wasn’t sure how many more seduction attempts he could survive. Not that she needed encouragement to keep them going. When she took the seat across from him, she made sure she bent forward enough to guarantee he knew she wasn’t wearing a bra under that skimpy tank top. His eyes cut sharply to the right and he made a point of looking at Martha as she bustled in from the kitchen with a big basket of biscuits. He could not stare at her. Or her magnificent chest. As Dawson ate, he pretended to be totally ignorant about Chloe’s stares, or the fact that she was constantly shifting positions to better display her cleavage. He was mostly successful, even when she slid her bare foot across his leg. His boots barred her from slipping her foot inside his jeans, but she was undeterred. His hand jerked and he focused on not spilling his coffee as her foot crept higher. He cleared his throat, loudly, and shot her a warning look. Apparently, it was her turn to ignore him, because she looked away, but her foot kept moving upward. He put a hand under the table to intercept her foot, reaching for it a scant second after her foot reached its goal. He jumped, sloshing coffee everywhere. With a muttered curse, Dawson slid back his chair, using a napkin to mop up the spill. “Sorry, Martha,” he said as the housekeeper came to his rescue, dishtowel in hand. She shrugged. “Just step back, son. Let me do my job.” She was gruff but had a soft spot for all her “boys,” as she called the workers. Though Martha looked nothing like his Navajo grandmother, who’d died three years ago, she reminded him of her in personality. Dawson backed away, his gaze settling on Chloe. She appeared the very picture of innocence. He barely restrained himself from rolling his eyes. Somehow, he finished dinner, aware of Chloe and Hank both watching him. The homemade strawberry cake stuck in his throat, and he gave up after three bites. “Thanks, Martha. Great dinner.” She waved off the compliments as the other men echoed Dawson. A scrape of the chairs and then he was falling into step with the others as they headed for the bunkhouse. “Dawson?” His stomach curled with dread when Hank spoke his name. He had no reason to be concerned, but he had a feeling Hank wanted to discuss more than tomorrow’s chores. Pausing, he turned on his heel. “Yeah, Hank?” “Come into my den, will you?” The invitation was an order, and they both knew it. Dammit.
USA Today Bestselling author Erin Wright has worked every job under the sun, including library director, barista, teacher, website designer, and ranch hand helping brand cattle, before settling into the career she’s always dreamed about: Author.
She still loves coffee, doesn’t love the smell of cow flesh burning, and is quite happily ensconced with her handsome hubby in a small, charming town in rural Idaho.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
69 MILLION THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU by Kira Archer
After personal assistant Kiersten Abbott wins sixty-nine million dollars in the lotto, she suddenly has more than enough money to quit her impossibly demanding job. But where’s the fun in that? She decides to stay and exact a little revenge on her insufferable ass of a boss. Billionaire Cole Harrington quickly figures out something’s afoot with his usually agreeable personal assistant. When he finds out about the office pool betting on how long it’ll take him to fire her, he decides to spice things up and see how far he can push her until she quits. The game is on, with everyone waiting to see who will crack first. But the bet sparks a new dynamic between them, and soon they realize they just might have crossed that fine line between hate and love.
THE BILLIONAIRE’S HOLIDAY ENGAGEMENT by Jenna Bayley-Burke
Venture capitalist Cameron Price is a workaholic and great at his job, but his boss is convinced Cam needs a more balanced life. A wife on his arm would prove Cam’s the right man to take over the company. When a gorgeous caterer cooks up the perfect event and catches Cam’s eye, he proposes an innovative arrangement they’ll both benefit from. Lauren Brody knows Cam’s plan is crazy, but pretending to be his fiancée will allow her access to networking at events she’d never get into otherwise. It could be just the break she needs to get her catering business on the map and book the kind of clients she’s always dreamed of cooking for. If she can convince Mr. Buttoned Up Tight to have some unscheduled fun along the way, theirs could be a perfect arrangement.
HIS CONVENIENT HUSBAND by Robin Covington
NFL football player Isaiah Blackwell lost his husband three years ago and is raising their teen son alone. He lives his life as quietly as his job allows, playing ball to support his family but trying not to draw unwanted attention. His quiet life is shaken up when a mutual friend introduces him to Victor, a visiting principal ballet dancer who is everything Isaiah is not. Brash, loud, and gender fluid Victor Aleksandrov has applied for political asylum to avoid returning to Russia, where gay men are targeted and persecuted. He’s been outspoken about gay rights in his home country, and if he doesn’t get asylum, going back to Russia is a death sentence. Their one-night stand turns into a tentative friendship, a relationship they both agree is temporary…until Victor’s denied asylum. Isaiah can’t offer Victor a happily ever after, but he can propose something that’ll keep Victor in the US and safe. . .marriage He just doesn’t expect his new husband to dance away with his heart.
CATCHING THE PLAYER by Diane Alberts
Kassidy Thomas decided to stop hiding behind her past, and start living, but she didn’t quite bet on that start including her singing a horrible song in front of the handsomest bachelor in the NFL, Wyatt Hamilton. She also doesn’t think he’d then consequently ask her out on a date, but turns out when you’re actually living life…crazy things happen. He needs to win… Wyatt Hamilton is a player in every sense of the word. Married to the game, he has no interest in relationships, love, or even second nights with the same woman. But from the second the girl-next-door beauty Kassidy knocks on his door to deliver a singing telegram, nothing goes as planned. He can’t stop thinking about her, and keeps showing up on her doorstep for more. That is, until the unthinkable happens… And all bets are off.
He puts the hot...
Christian Watson, a former SAS officer and current BKI operator, never thought he would return to England after a terrible turn of events forced him to abandon his homeland. But now he's back on British soil where old enemies are determined to do him in. Fighting for his life is pretty much SOP for Christian. Doing it with the beautiful, bossy Emily Scott in tow is another matter entirely. In hot pursuit. Emily lost her coveted job at the CIA because of a colleague turned rogue, and now she has just one rule when it comes to men: they're for recreational purposes only. But when she and Christian are thrust into very close quarters while evading two mysterious men who want Christian dead, she can't help but question all her ideas about love and life lived on the edge. Battling the bad guys is hard enough, battling her feelings for Christian just might prove impossible.
I have followed the Black Knights Inc. series since the beginning - before I was even blogging - and over the time I have completely fallen in love with the gang and the author's style of writing.
With the gang, you can always count on them having your back, going to the extreme lengths to keep you safe and alive, while they picker, argue, mess with your head through every step of it. The author obviously is familiar with the slang, the dialects, and accents. They are all part of the different characters in the series, partly defining them and their past. She writes over the top emotions and expressions, and though I usually prefer digging deeper than going over the top, Ms. Walker manages to do both when it comes to the expressions and emotions of the characters. The feelings are raw and real, and the way they display them at times peculiar yet genuine. Hot Pursuit is the book eleven in the series, and the world the current characters live in is rather far removed from the beginning of the series. Christian Watson and Emily Scott have been bickering and flirting for three books now, so to get the full impact of their developing relationship, I would start from earlier. The chemistry between Christian and Emily is scorching hot, they are so perfect for each other, if only they dared to take the step forward. They both have secrets they would rather hide for the rest of their lives but to make the new connection to work between them, they peddle the secrets for favors and thus get to know each other deeply and intimately. As usual, there is a secondary couple developing in the story and this time it is male/male couple Ace and Rusty. I like the chemistry between them, they are obviously attracted to each other, yet the fact that Rusty is not willing to come out and be openly gay keeps Ace from getting into a relationship with him. There's more focus on the relationship drama and progress than suspense and action in this book. The burst of attacks and threats are short, intense, and deadly. The first part of the tale is very familiar since it is happening parallel to the previous book as the team split and had to escape from the Great Brittain separately. It is known that this exhilarating, thrilling, and humorous romantic suspense series is coming to the end, what I am curious about is if there is a book or two still in the works, will Angel find his match in the mysterious lady who was introduced at the end, and will Rusty and Ace find a peaceful co-existence or will their ways depart as the Black Knights Inc. closes its doors. The heat factor is high, the emotions all over the map, the danger is constant and lethal, the bad language as natural to the characters as breathing, yet the stories are delightfully adorable, just don't tell the Boss I called him that... ~ Four Spoons
Wanted: Convenient Wife
When preacher Hugh Arness advertises for a marriage of convenience, the single father's not expecting Annie Marshall to apply. She's too vivacious--and far too pretty. Yet Annie connects with his withdrawn young son, Evan, and he agrees to a trial period--which her grandfather will chaperone--until Christmas. By then he'll have found a candidate who doesn't make him long for more than he feels worthy of... Security and her own home...Annie wants both, without the heartache love brings. Soon she's earning little Evan's trust, eager to show his papa that their partnership can work. She knows that Hugh needs tenderness, too. And maybe this Christmas could mark the end of their practical arrangement...and the start of a true union and real family.
This story made a big impact on me. Not only is it beautifully written with some heartbreaking issues like mental and physical child abuse, but the main characters and their faith in God is such a central, natural part of their lives, and it is openly, honestly, and unashamedly brought forward in every aspect of their lives. I loved it, it is an encouraging and inspiring example how to live your life when faith in God is your guiding light.
Hugh Arness is a kindhearted and a good man. Yes, he is the preacher, so one might expect that, but I think his character would have been the same no matter what his profession was. He loves the Lord and his son, that is palpable. All his life he has struggled with inadequacy, thanks to his mother's own problems. He is not looking for love, he has learned the hard way that hoping to be loved leads only for disappointments. He finds Annie Marshall way too attractive and lively and young to accept her proposal of marriage of convenience. Annie is determined to start her own life yet to avoid love and romantic relationships to escape from more heartbreak. To marry the preacher and take care of his son, that would be enough for Annie for the rest of her life. If only her stubborn, meddling family would allow her to move on. Annie's heart is gold, she is sweet, smart, considerate, and kind. She radiates of life, goodness, and love, it was impossible not to smile when she walks into a room. There is so much to love about this story I ended up inhaling it at one sitting, unable to put it down until the end. The characters are by no means 'perfect', they struggle with their faith and with their convictions, with their own character fails. Yet there is healing, there is growth, there is maturing, and most of all, there is love. The abuse Hugh's son has experienced, and his healing and learning to trust again touched my heart. The care and patience they show to him, space and time they give to him so he could feel safe and secure again delivered some emotion filled scenes. Montana Bride by Christmas is a beautiful story on many levels, it is an exemplary tale of God's love, guidance, and living in faith and growing as a Christian. It is a beautiful story of the healing powers of the love of a family, the feelings of belonging, being accepted, being enough, being loved. It is an adorable story of falling in love despite all circumstances, against your will and better knowledge. The most delightfully charming ending to this absolutely lovely little family makes me still smile just thinking about it. ~ Five Spoons!
A Chance This Christmas
by Joanne Rock October 5, 2017 Tule Publishing
Growing up in the Christmas-crazed theme town of Yuletide was fun for fashion designer Rachel Chambers until a family scandal made her unwelcome. Eight years later, she’s home for a friend’s wedding and trying to go incognito… until her old flame spots her.
Snowboarder Gavin Blake wants to make things right with Rachel, and smoothing her way back in Yuletide seems like the best way to do just that. Making Rachel his date for a week of pre-wedding parties is sure to bring them closer. Except he underestimated how long a small town can carry a grudge--or how much the memory of a long-ago kiss could tempt him all over again. As the wedding approaches, Rachel remembers all she loved about her close-knit, Christmas-loving neighbors. But even if she can win over the town again, will she be able to convince her footloose, mogul-shredding wedding date that they can find happiness beyond the holidays?
For a second, she blinked up at him, blue eyes wide. She still had that sweet, girl-next-door appeal. But there had always been an edge to her, too. A wicked gleam behind the innocence. A twinkle of mischief.
She edged past him. “Hi. Sorry I don’t have time to visit. I need to see a friend.” Fumbling her keys with her red mittens, she dropped them in the snow. “No problem.” He moved to help her retrieve them, hearing the brush-off in her tone. “I’m glad to see you back in town.” “If that’s true—and I doubt it—then that makes you the only person besides my mother who would ever admit it.” She sounded breathless and agitated. Irritated. The last time he’d spoken to her, she’d been breathless for much better reasons. At least at the start of the day. His fingers closed around her keys where they’d fallen behind the Cadillac front tire. Gavin turned toward her, the two of them still crouched side by side in the snow. “I’ve always regretted the way we parted, Rachel. For what it’s worth, I’m sorry about what happened.” He reached for her hand in the shadowy darkness lit mostly by the empty Christmas carousel spinning around nearby. He held her wrist and deposited the keys into her mitten. “Sorry for what? That my father thought it would be a great idea to bankrupt the town? That he timed it to happen while everyone was distracted by my ex-boyfriend proposing in skywriting? Or that my embarrassment over making out with you caused me to flee and look as guilty as my crooked dad?” She yanked her wrist away from him and shot to her feet, already sifting through the set to find the door key. Her breathing sounded labored, like she’d just finished a snowboard run at full speed. “I felt bad about all those things, Rach. But I’m sorry I acted like an ass and clammed up when Luke came along.” He shook his head, uncomfortable with the memory. “I had no right to hang you out to dry like that.” Key in the door, she let go of the fob. The thick metal elf icon banged against the door. Her shoulders rose and fell with her breathing. “It’s been eight years.” She sighed out the number. Or tried to. It came out as more of a wheeze. “If Luke hasn’t put it behind him, he’s not as much of a grown-up as we all gave him credit for.” Good to know his actions hadn’t kept her up at night. But he wasn’t letting himself off the hook yet. “Are you okay?” He held a hand out to her, cupping her shoulder through her dark coat. “I’m fine.” She shook her head, her face illuminated by the blue and yellow lights of one of the animals on the carousel as it spun past. “Just a tree allergy, I think.” “In thirty-degree weather?” He frowned. “I might actually be allergic to the whole town.” She pulled an inhaler out of her pocket and took a quick puff. “I’m sure it’s not as bad as all that. I’ve been hoping I’d see you again ever since I bought Jingle Elf’s house.” He didn’t move his hand right away, enjoying the feel of her. They’d been friends for a long time before things fell apart. When she’d been Luke’s girlfriend, he’d been respectful of that, giving her a wide berth because he’d always felt a bit more than friendly toward her. But with his training schedule, he’d been wary of jumping into a relationship even as a teen. He shouldn’t have been surprised when she started dating Luke. Then, after his friends had split, he should have known it was only a matter of time before the chemistry simmered to the surface. “I never would have guessed you’d want to be a part of the madness that is Yuletide.” She shivered lightly. “I’ve been back in town for a day and Katie Garrett is already threatening to have me thrown out on my ear.” “I’ve always loved it here. You know that.” Gavin remembered a time when her father had been a mentor to him, giving the local teens all a role in helping the Christmas town take shape in the early years. “And it’s past time you reminded the old guard you have just as much of a right to be here as any of them.” He noticed a few of the town board members in the next row, wearing their tree-lighting finery and the light-up necklaces that said “Yuletide.” “Although, unless you’re prepared to do that right now, maybe you should let me drive you where you want to go.” Glancing over her shoulder, Rachel pulled her hat lower. “That’s okay. I’m going in to Lake Placid. I can take Mom’s car.” “You realize there isn’t a more recognizable vehicle in town outside of St. Nick’s sleigh?” He kept his voice down, unwilling to end this unlikely reunion with the intrusion of a bunch of the town founders who’d grown cynical since the Chris Chambers’ embezzlement. “That Cadillac is going to announce your presence pretty quickly.” Rachel glanced back and forth between him and the car. “I don’t know.” Insulted that he didn’t look like the better option, he tugged the keys free from the door. “The Rachel Chambers I once knew had a sense of adventure.” He held out his hand, waiting. And yes, hoping. “And look where that got me?” she whispered, but took his hand just the same. “I’m a pariah in my own town.” Leading her toward his truck a few spaces on, he made sure they stayed out of the reflected carousel lights. “Not if I have anything to say about it.” Unlocking the passenger door, he helped her up into the old F150 he’d bought when he purchased the house. He hurried to the driver’s side and slid behind the wheel before she changed her mind. “Oh really? I’m not sure you’re going to be much help salvaging my reputation.” He really shouldn’t get involved. He knew that. Championing Rachel in this town would be bad for the business he wanted to open. It could hurt his chances of accomplishing a whole laundry list of things he wanted to tackle in town, starting with a fundraiser he needed the town council to approve. But he owed her, didn’t he? “That’s where you’re wrong.” A plan came together in his mind—a way to make up to her the wrong that he’d done all those years ago. “I’m a local sports hero these days.” He wasn’t bragging. People placed a whole lot of emphasis on sports. “I’ve got some standing in town.” “I don’t think that’s going to help me. I might just tarnish your Olympic halo.” She rubbed a knuckle along the passenger window, as if she could clear the icy layer on the outside. They sat in the cold truck while he waited for the defroster to kick in enough to clear the windows. He knew she had a valid point. “I kept my mouth shut eight years ago when I should have defended you to everyone. At the time, I thought maybe you hadn’t been honest with me, and that maybe you really were still with Luke.” Gavin had felt like he’d betrayed his friend, and the guilt had made him say things he later regretted. “I know better now, thanks to making amends with Luke. And I’d like to help you feel welcome in Yuletide again.” “You don’t have to do any such thing.” She turned toward him, a hand on his arm. “I’m not going to stay in town long anyhow.” He could see the hint of vulnerability in her pretty eyes. Was she leaving because things were uncomfortable for her here? He couldn’t abide that. Not when he’d been a part of the reason she’d felt ostracized. He knew exactly how to fix it. Besides, he realized he was in no hurry for her to leave. It’d been too long since he had seen her. “I happen to know Kiersten Garrett really wants you at her wedding.” He’d been over to dinner at Luke’s and Kiersten had shared as much. Rachel’s jaw dropped. “I— Well. Just because Kiersten wants me there doesn’t mean I need to put up with grief from everyone in town.” He jumped into trouble with both feet. It came with the territory on the mountain every day, and he wasn’t going to shy away from a risk now, with someone who used to be important to him. “Consider the town quieted when you go to the bridal welcome dinner as my date.”
Christmas is the time for miracles, new beginnings, good tidings, and joy. The town of Yuletide seems to have forgotten what it used to stand for, with its year around Christmas celebration. Instead of generosity, kindness, and team spirits, everyone pulling together, there are a lot of negative undercurrents, greed, and unforgiveness, and false accusations.
After eight long years, Rachel Chambers finally comes back home to Yuletide to face her past. One kiss at the wrong time as a young girl and it seems like the whole town turns against her, taking upon herself her father's sins as well as the blame of humiliating the town favorite son. Rachel has spunk, courage, kindness, and strength to a great measure. And she is going to need it all to face the town and their allegations. But most of all, she is going to need it when facing Gavin Blake again. Gavin is about eight years late, but now more than before he is fighting for Rachel, standing next to her as she faces the town and her former boyfriend Luke. I liked the spark and chemistry between Rachel and Gavin. The connection between them was magical, and the emotions churning between them were delightful. Rachel and Gavin obviously belong together, it was adorable to see them trying to find their way to each other again, after all the turbulent years between them. While I rejoiced about the connection between Gavin and Rachel, I struggled with the rest of the story. The negativity of the town that they still carried after eight years, the fact that Rachel even felt like she had to beg for forgiveness from Luke, while it was him who cost all the trouble, didn't sit with me well. I felt like that was such a big part of the story, but the resolution wasn't really there, Luke was getting married to someone else yet so focused on Rachel, the past, and all the negativity. Second chances and forgiveness, learning to move on, accepting your responsibility of the past, and finding a happiness for your future - there's a lot of simmering under the joyful Christmas celebration in the town of Yuletide, and each and everyone has to take a moment and evaluate their lives as Rachel and Gavin are fumbling towards their new beginnings while trying to amend the old wounds. ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Four-time RITA nominee Joanne Rock has never met a romance sub-genre she didn't like. The author of over eighty books enjoys writing a wide range of stories, most recently focusing on sexy contemporaries and small town family sagas. An optimist by nature and perpetual seeker of silver linings, Joanne finds romance fits her life outlook perfectly--love is worth fighting for. A frequent speaker at regional and national writing conferences she enjoys giving back to the writing community that nurtured and inspired her early career. She has a Masters degree in Literature from the University of Louisville but credits her fiction writing skills to her intensive study with friend and fellow author Catherine Mann. When she's not writing, Joanne enjoys travel, especially to see her favorite sports teams play with her former sports editor husband and three athletic-minded sons.
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