Cowboys for Christmas
The Rancher's Christmas Baby by Arlene James The quiet holiday season Dixon Lyons had planned is abruptly derailed when his long-absent mother appears at his doorstep with a baby and stunning beauty Fawn Ambor. Soon Fawn's generous heart and endearing belief in the strength of family and forgiveness have him wondering if this might just be the Christmas he needs. Christmas Eve Cowboy by Lois Richer Dr. Elizabeth Kendall moved to Snowflake, Montana, wanting nothing more than a fresh start for herself and her daughter, Zoey. But when handsome local rancher Brett Carlisle convinces Elizabeth to lead the kids' Christmas Eve choir, she discovers the idyllic town has a lot more in store for her—and her heart—than she ever imagined.
Two sweet Christmas stories in one, delivering the cheer of Christmas with strong messages of forgiveness and trusting God with the side of romance and family matters.
In The Rancher's Christmas Baby by Arlene James Dixon Lyons struggles with his childhood issues of abandonment. Facing his mother again, after years of separation, he has to look at the past, his childhood, with the eyes of a grown man. Leaning on God's guidance, he seeks for peace for his mind and finds room in his heart for much more than he expected. The adorable romance developing between Dixon and Fawn, the relationship between Dixon and his baby sister, and the Christmas activities bring the lighter side to the poignant story of grace and mercy Dixon and his parents have to experience to be able to move on with their lives. Christmas Eve Cowboy by Lois Richer is the story of Dr. Elizabeth Kendall and rancher Brett Carlisle who both are starting a new face in their lives. The Christmas spirit is high in Snowflake Montana, and it radiates from each page of the story. Both Elizabeth and Brett have to learn to trust in God in a new, comprehensive way. Elizabeth was mentally abused and berated by her ex-husband, leaving scars in her mind and soul. She has to find her inner strength again and to realize, she is enough. Brett put his dreams aside to help his father years ago. Now there is a new chance to seek the fulfillment of those dreams and goals, yet his heart is troubled by his father's health and having to leave Snowflake behind, especially now that Elizabeth and her daughter has begun such a big part of his life, capturing his heart, and making a home there. Can they trust in God's guidance, will they be able to fulfill their dreams and still walk in His plans for their lives? A thought-provoking tale that made an impact, for sure. Both stories deliver a strong message of faith in the Lord while sharing an abundance of Christmas joy and jubilee, putting the family in the focus and sharing stories of delightful, sweet romance. ~ Four Spoons
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The news they're after isn't fake--it's deadly
For top security expert Parker Lawton, the anonymous threat is explosive. Return the gold stolen during his intelligence unit's last Iraq mission--or they'll each be hunted down. And when one of his men is killed just before meeting investigative reporter Rebecca Wallace, he must take her under his "protection." But her persistence in getting the real story is even more dangerous--and irresistible. For a dashing war hero, Parker is the most guilty-acting innocent man Becca has ever seen. Still, working with him is the only way to stay ahead of a ruthless enemy. And as her instincts and Parker's skills hone in on the truth, trusting the desire simmering between them could be their only chance--or the last move they'll ever make.
Jumping right into a middle of the series was not a problem. I enjoyed the mystery and action with the side of a romance in this vastly entertaining story that kept me captivated.
I loved the tone of the story, the characters were charismatic and attractive, the plot was filled with energy, driving forward, keeping me on my toes. I think anyone who loves the works of Linda Howard would love these stories, they have that same kind of tone, the ambiance, the vitality that pulled me into romantic suspense in the first place. Rebecca Wallace is a strong heroine. She is independent, capable, and tough as nails. She can kick your butt and make you reveal your secrets at the same time. I loved her attitude, that she knew what she wanted and was not afraid to go after it. She does not hold a grudge, she is reasonable, smart, and beautiful. Parker Lawton had me swooning, oh my goodness. He is sexy! He has wealth but he doesn't flaunt it. He is tough, strong, and powerful, yet there is humbleness, respect, and kindness in him that draw me in. He is the perfect mix of a good guy turning into a bad boy. Some of his actions could seem unacceptable, yet there are reasons for his behavior, there are excuses, and there is that charm that can overpower all the rest. I loved the spark and bond between Rebecca and Parker, so evident and palpable even though their romance is on the backburner while the action, solving the mystery of murders and blackmail, and staying alive take the main heat in the tale. Glamour and charm, back-alley murders, kidnappings, constant danger and fear for their lives, this fast-paced action thriller with its splendid characters held my attention. I finally get to use the word: unputdownable! Made me want to read the rest of the series, as well. ~ Five Spoons
DEBRA WEBB is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 140 novels, including reader favorites the Shades of Death, the Faces of Evil and the Colby Agency series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. Recently Debra was awarded the distinguished Centennial Award for having achieved publication of her 100th novel.
With more than four million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
As a USA Today bestselling author of award-winning romantic suspense, paranormal romance, and urban fantasy adventures I love to write action-packed stories with a twist! I'm also a coffee addict, domestic zookeeper, wife, and proud mother of two. My newest release: Timeless Vision, the first Knight Traveler novel. Look for my debut with Harlequin Romantic Suspense coming in the fall of 2016 and watch for more of the books I write with Debra Webb in the Dangerous Protector trilogy as well as those we write for Harelquin Intrigue.
Visit Regan at WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST
For this lawman, it's do or die in Riker County
Bound to protect and serve, sheriff Billy Reed has tried to let his career be enough. But he could never forget Mara Copeland, the woman who left without a goodbye and hurt him without warning. Now she's back with criminals on her trail and a child in her arms. His child. Mara didn't trust the future she and Billy could've had. He's a lawman and she was born into a world of ruthless criminals. Still, he's the man she can turn to. He'll do anything to protect their daughter, but will love be reason enough to forgive Mara and bring their family back together? The Protectors of Riker County
A fierce and sharp story with dynamic characters, potent emotions, forceful suspense with deadly action, and an energetic, twisty plot that had me glued to my kindle, hanging on to each word!
Sheriff Billy Reed is a charismatic leader, he is stern yet fair, he is supportive, kind, considerate man. He has the loyalty of his deputies, and with a strong, solid hand keeps the town on the right path. Mara Copeland has lived her life in the shadow of her father's sins and crimes. She has a heart of gold, she only wants what is best for her loved ones and she is willing to risk her life to save a fellow man or give up her happiness if that means the other's success. No, she is no doormat, she truly is a strong, capable woman, just that noble, humble, and kind. The spark between Mara and Billy is like fireworks. The bond they had before she ran away is as strong as ever. The attraction is combustible, barely can they hold it in control. Billy's reaction to the child she never told him about, is mature and reasonable. The big, burly sheriff fawning over a baby-girl is definitely a swoon-worthy moment, melting my heart and making me smile. The danger lurking around Mara, the threats, the attacks, and the mystery of the hidden stash is sneaky, devious, and deadly. Mara has to face her past demons to be able to save herself and her child, to be able to leave the past behind and find a future where they all can live harmoniously. If only they manage to solve the puzzle in time if only she can keep herself alive long enough for Billy to rescue her. An entertaining, intense, and engaging story with a great balance between the mystery and passion. While Mara and Billy are being distracted by their churning emotions and old feelings coming to the surface, the malicious intentions of the culprits creep into the town making havoc, putting their lives at risk and dangering any and all hopes their had for the future. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Tyler Anne Snell spends her days plotting murders, creating mysteries, and weaving sexual tension, romance, and can't-live-without-you love throughout each. When she isn't writing romantic suspense she's reading urban fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and falling even more in love with Netflix.
Tyler lives in South Alabama with her same-named husband, their mini lions, and a burning desire to meet Kurt Russell. Visit her: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER |
Death of the Kona Man
Aloha Lagoon Mysteries Book 9
by Catherine Bruns
Genre: Cozy Mystery
From USA Today bestselling author Catherine Bruns comes the next deadly delicious Carrie Jorgenson adventure in paradise...
Carrie Jorgenson is living the dream in Hawaii. She has a steady job as a waitress at the Loco Moco Café, a hot new love interest in her manager, and the curtain’s about to rise on her role in a local theater production. But when she's asked to deliver food to a guest at the Aloha Lagoon resort—who then drops dead!—her dreams quickly become the stuff of nightmares.
World renowned food critic Randolph Cremshaw has no shortage of enemies. He's rude, patronizing, and famous for his one-star reviews. After the coffee Carrie delivers is discovered to have been poisoned, she and the café quickly rise to the top of the suspects list. A jealous co-worker, thefts at the restaurant, and a performance that threatens to blow up in Carrie's face only make things worse. With an already full plate, Carrie is also forced into making a decision that may change everything for her. But this all pales in comparison when she comes face to face with Randolph's killer and what might be the final curtain call…of her life.
Recipes included!
**Suggested to Read Death of the Big Kahuna first!**
Vivian and I started to read the article silently to ourselves. It was entitled, "You'd Have to Be Loco to Eat Here," by Randolph Cremshaw.
Okay, this was not going to end well. As my faithful readers know, Hawaii was my home for several years. I enjoy the tropical climate and always stay at the elegant Aloha Lagoon Resort whenever I return to the beautiful island of Kauai. I don't typically review cafés, but a recent visit to the Loco Moco, which wears the name "loco" well, has forced my hand. The history of this restaurant itself is an interesting one, to say the least. The place was originally owned by George Kama, who then sold it to Maya and Sampson Akamu. The couple was killed shortly afterward in a car accident, and their son Hale ran the place solo for about twenty years. Hale himself was murdered a couple of months ago, inside the actual restaurant. Now if that wasn't enough to make you never want to look at a plate of their pork hash again, this is what I have to say about my recent dining experience at the hole-in-the wall establishment: Pass. That's all. Service—Three stars. The server was attractive and pleasant but totally inept. I have my doubts that she could manage to walk and chew gum at the same time. Beverages—One star. When I am served coffee in the beautiful state of Hawaii, it should not be in the form of mud, but a beverage that consists of freshly ground Kona beans. Eventually I did receive the latter after complaint, but the experience was already ruined for me. A bitter disappointment—yes, pun intended. Cleanliness—Two stars. The best I can say is that the table wasn't sticky, and the server was nice enough not to place her gum underneath it. Quality of food—Zero stars. That moment when you ask for ketchup but receive Tabasco sauce instead…well, what else is there left to say, except that I left the place in burning anger. Yes, another pun for you. Average these ratings together and you come up with 1 ½ stars, or in my opinion a complete failure, so don't waste your time and hard-earned money here. Look elsewhere. Skip the Loco Moco Café. You'll thank me for it later. Vivian covered her mouth with one hand as she finished reading, and I sucked in some air. This would no doubt be very damaging to the café. I silently fumed about the line that stated the server couldn't walk and chew gum at the same time. Excuse me? I never chewed gum while I was working. What a jerk. "How are Terry and Ava taking this?" I wondered if Keanu knew as well. Poncho pressed his lips together tightly. "Not well. You just missed the latest episode of Terry's screaming. I think Ava has managed to calm him down for the moment. The one thing they seem very curious about is how Tabasco sauce ended up in the ketchup holder." He glanced piteously at both of us. "I didn't do it," Vivian said quickly. I shook my head back. "I filled some the other day, but I'm positive it was ketchup." I distinctly remembered pouring the contents from the large container into the holders. Poncho muttered something indistinguishable under his breath. "Anna filled a few the other day as well. Terry just called his royal highness—Cremshaw. Would you believe the man had the gall to tell Terry that he might remove the post from his blog if we would deliver breakfast and dinner to his room today? I am in the process of placing the breakfast items on a rolling cart. Carrie, he asked that it be delivered by the girl with the soulful dark eyes who waited on him the other day." A giant knot formed in the pit of my stomach. Great. Ava and Terry were probably upstairs right now throwing me under the bus for the ketchup incident. How I wished Keanu was here. I'd asked him what had happened after they'd found us kissing—nothing, he'd assured me, and left it at that. "Lovely." What was up with this guy anyhow? He didn't like me but commented that I had soulful eyes? Was he a pervert in disguise? I didn't want to go to his room alone. "Do I really have to wait on that creep again? I thought that food critics weren't allowed to say such nasty things. "Can't he be sued for slander because of the remarks he made about the Akamus?" Mercifully, he hadn't identified me by name. Poncho did a palms-up. "Ava and Terry are only concerned with giving the man whatever he wants right now. He is a freelance food critic and contributes to the most popular cooking magazine in the world. In short, he gets away with murder, and there's nothing we can do about it." Vivian snickered as she helped us load the food onto the cart. "I bet he's got more than a few people that would like to murder him." Poncho snorted. "It is tempting, ho'aloha. Believe me."
About Aloha Lagoon:
**Books can be read in any order and they're from multiple authors!**
There's trouble in paradise...
Welcome to Aloha Lagoon, one of Hawaii's hidden treasures. A little bit of tropical paradise nestled along the coast of Kauai, this resort town boasts luxurious accommodation, friendly island atmosphere...and only a slightly higher than normal murder rate. While mysterious circumstances may be the norm on our corner of the island, we're certain that our staff and Lagoon natives will make your stay in Aloha Lagoon one you will never forget! visit us at www.alohalagoonmysteries.com
The Aloha Lagoon Mysteries:
Ukulele Murder (book #1)
Murder on the Aloha Express (book #2)
Deadly Wipeout (book #3)
Deadly Bubbles in the Wine (book #4)
Mele Kalikimaka Murder (book #5)
Death of the Big Kahuna (book #6)
Ukulele Deadly (book #7)
Bikinis & Bloodshed (book #8)
Death of the Kona Man (book #9)
Catherine is the USA Today best selling author of the Cookies & Chance mysteries. She lives in New York with her very patient husband, three sons, and assorted cats and dogs. Catherine has a B.A. in English and is a former newspaper reporter and press release writer. She also writes the Cindy York and the Aloha Lagoon (Carrie Jorgenson) mysteries. Her next Cookies & Chance mystery, Silenced by Sugar, releases in January 2018.
Defending Hannah
Delta Force Defenders Book 1
by Jennifer Becker
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Ben “Midas” Gates is the leader of his Delta Force team and is leading a mission to shut down a known terrorist working out of Panama and rescue hostages. When he arrives he discovers the mission is anything but easy and becomes even more complicated because he knows one of the hostages. It was a woman he had been in love with growing up and ran away from thirteen years ago.
The mission isn’t a complete failure but the team discovers someone set them up to fail and they don’t take failure as an option. With the aid of Hannah who has inside information on their terrorist and who may know who set them up, Ben does all in his power not to fall for the only woman he has ever loved.
I grew up with a love of reading and writing. I wrote my first story at the age of 12 and my first book at 16. I love reading anything romance and I have a deep love for history. All my stories are about people who come from all different walks of life but all want to love and be loved.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts and a giveaway!
In Mystery, Montana, a white-hot hunk fights fire with passion...
Though he's ridiculously handsome and notoriously funny, it's Colter Fitzgerald's firefighting skills that are most needed by Whitney Barstow--at first. She's been traumatized by fire and terrified that the arsonist sabotaging Dunrovin Ranch is a madman from her past. She's also fearful that harm will come to any man she loves, so denies her attraction to Colter. Then why is she jealous of another woman's hands all over him? On the eve of the ranch's Christmas festival, Colter wants no one but Whitney, body, soul and darkest secrets. But there's still an arsonist to stop...before what makes the season bright is Dunrovin in flames. Mystery Christmas
With mystery, threats, humor, and passion the story pulled me in, and I was enthralled until the early morning hours and 'the end'.
Mr. Taken has a new, different kind of tone to it compared to the previous stories, obviously colored by the hero and heroine's personalities and sizzling chemistry between them. The sarcastic, yet well-meant banter between them had me chuckling, the fervor of their feelings fanning my face. Colter Fitzgerald and Whitney Barstow have a definite spark between them, and they have much more in common than one would think at the first glance. Colter has a great sense of humor, he is a caretaker and protector. He is not shy about his attraction and growing feeling towards Whitney, he just wishes he knew if he can truly trust her with her skittish behavior regarding the recent events at the farm. Because it is obvious Whitney is holding secrets that could put all of them in danger. Whitney ran away from Kentucky to hide from her abusive, stalking ex who tried to kill her. She is secretive and avoiding close relationships with everyone. The lose of her family connection and beloved horses keep her away from the barn and people, yet her whole being is craving for healing and peace of mind. She does her best to deny her attraction to Colter, yet the repeated moments of jealousy and envy tells another tale. The story fits well into the ongoing series, and there was a natural flow to it that made it easy to follow and enjoy. The catty behavior between Sarah and Whitney was a surprise, in that hilarious, "I can't look away oh my goodness what is going on" - way. The mystery with the attempts to sabotage the farm builds up the suspense and tension. The investigation is churning a lot of feelings, bringing strain and stress to the relationships all around. A touch of Christmas spirit and sort of a community miracle is witnessed in the attempt to save the farm, as all come together to celebrate the Yule. Little did they know this would give an ample opportunity to anyone wanting to harm the town or the Fitzgeralds. A delightfully intense story filled with engaging romance and gripping mystery ~ Four Spoons
Danica Winters is an Amazon bestselling author who has won multiple awards for writing books that grip readers with their ability to drive emotion through suspense and occasionally a touch of magic. Most recently, Danica was the winner of the Paranormal Romance Guild’s Paranormal Romantic Suspense Book of the Year Award and Chanticleer Media’s Paranormal Book of the Year for her novel Montana Mustangs.
When she’s not working, she can be found in the wilds of Montana testing her patience while she tries to understand the allure of various crafts (quilting, pottery, and painting are not her thing). She always believes the cup is neither half full nor half empty, but it better be filled with wine. Website | Facebook | Twitter |
He was a man on a mission, one that included a beautiful woman and a little girl he'd die defending...
What a serious case of mistaken identity. Ashton Fitzgerald is no unassuming handyman but a highly trained sharpshooter intent on protecting Summer Worrall and her baby daughter. The Omega SWAT member has a debt to pay and he isn't about to let Summer out of his sights. For someone else has set their own sights on the lovely widow. Her unexpected relationship with Ashton has put Summer and her child straight into a madman's line of fire. Suddenly a mission to make amends becomes Ashton's quest to defend this little family with his very life. Omega Sector: Under Siege
They say don't judge the book by its cover, but OH MY GOODNESS, if this is not the best cover ever! And the book does deliver what the cover promises. Daddy Defender is filled with riveting, knuckle-biting suspense and action intertwined with adorable, sweet, and swoon-worthy scenes.
Ashton Fitzgerald is fun, kind, protective, and good with his hands. His growing feelings towards Summer Worrall and her cute little daughter are a well-known secret within Omega. Yet the convoluted history between Ashton's job and Summer's past keeps him from being open and honest with her, keeping the walls in place between them and their feelings towards each other hidden. Because Ashton has brought Summer's feelings to the surface again, emotions that have been deeply buried since her husband was killed. The connection and chemistry between Ashton and Summer are obvious and palpable, as is the connection Ashton has to Summer's daughter. These three form an inseparable unit, that nothing can destroy, no matter how much they try. The whole cast of characters are charming, likable, and attractive, the kind of people you want to hang out with, to get to know better. I found them entertaining and enjoyable, wishing there would have been a bit more insight to Ashton and Summer's personalities, as they were fumbling with their emotions and future possibilities. Maybe I just couldn't get enough of them... The continues threat and deadly force attacks towards the Omega team, Ashton, and Summer keeps the strain and stress high, gripping the attention and escalating the terror and angst. It is obvious the culprits do not care if there is collateral damage, as long as they manage to cripple the Omega, and ultimately destroy it because revenge is the game they like to play. Even though the story is brought to a satisfying conclusion, there is a sort of a cliffhanger, as the mastermind behind the desire to end the existence of Omega Sector is still at large, and the story will - apparently - continue through the series. A mesmerizing and sharp story with vivid images, dynamic characters, and powerful suspense and action combined with dreamy, lovely, and delectable romance and the cutest little girl with her hero in the middle of the battle... ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Janie Crouch loves to read – almost exclusively romance – and has been doing so since middle school. She cut her teeth on Harlequin (Mills & Boon) Romances when she lived in Wales, UK as a preteen, then moved on to a passion for romantic suspense as an adult. Her favorite authors include: Linda Howard, Nora Roberts, and Elizabeth Lowell.
Janie recently relocated with her husband and four children to Germany (due to her husband's job as support for the U.S. Military), after living in Virginia for nearly 20 years. When she’s not listening to the voices in her head (and even when she is), she enjoys traveling, long-distance running, movie-watching, knitting and adventure (obstacle) racing. Janie completed an Ironman Triathlon in 2014. Most of all, she loves to laugh and smile and count her blessings. And her blessings are many. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Fiancé For The Night
by Melissa McClone Genre Contemporary Romance; Sweet/Clean Romance Publisher Cardinal Press, LL Publication Date October 17, 2017
She needs a fiancé—for only one night.
Cassandra Daniels’ parents refuse to accept that she doesn’t need a boyfriend to be happy. To stop their meddling and matchmaking, Cassandra creates a fictional fiancé, a man who sounds so unlike their carefree and unconventional daughter that her mom and dad want to meet him for dinner, immediately. No problem. San Francisco is a big city. Finding a fiancé won’t be that hard. All Troy McKnight wants is a beer after a long day at work. But when a pretty blonde asks him to dinner and wants him to pretend to be her fiancé, Troy agrees to help. Playing make-believe could be fun, especially since he gets a free meal, and he’ll have a great story to tell. When one lie leads to another, however, the fake engagement spirals into real wedding plans. Cassandra and Troy must stop the madness and put an end to their charade. But what if her fiancé for the night is the perfect husband for life? ** This second edition has been rewritten and updated. 8000 words have also been added. **
About Melissa McCloneUSA Today bestselling author, Melissa McClone has published over forty novels with Harlequin and Tule Publishing Group and been nominated for Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award. With a degree in mechanical engineering from Stanford University, Melissa worked for a major airline where she traveled the globe and met her husband. But analyzing jet engine performance couldn’t compete with her love of writing happily ever afters. Her first full-time writing endeavor was her first sale when she was pregnant with her first child! When she isn’t writing, you can usually find her driving her minivan to/from her children’s swim practices and other activities. Melissa lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, three children, two spoiled Norwegian Elkhounds, and cats who think they rule the house. They do! Melissa’s Links
It’s Christmastime in the quaint island town of Cloud Bay, where love is always in season...
Will has believed in love at first sight since the day he first laid eyes on Mina Harper five years ago. There was only one problem: She was happily married. Then, when Mina’s husband was killed by a drunk driver, Will figured she’d want nothing to do with a guy who owns a whiskey distillery. So he’s kept his feelings locked away, knowing that not even a Christmas miracle would be enough to melt Mina’s heart. . . Mina believes her days of true love are behind her. Since losing her husband she’s kept to herself, content to do her own painting and stay out of the limelight that comes with her famous family. But when, after a freak accident, Will comes to her rescue, Mina can’t quite get him out of her mind. As curiosity turns into a fling during Cloud Bay’s first Christmas Festival, she finds it harder to convince herself that her feelings for Will are just mistletoe-inspired. Could Mina be ready to lay the past to rest and finally admit that what she really wants for Christmas—and forever—is Will?
When do the holidays official start for you?
After my mom's birthday which is early December! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Getting together with my family and friends and just having a good time with the people I love. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Making the plum pudding with my mum and watching Carols by Candlelight which is broadcast on TV here in Oz on Christmas Eve. What's your favorite holiday movie? Die Hard Do you have a favorite holiday book? The Father Christmas Letters by J.R.R Tolkien. Gorgeous illustrations and funny! They're letters he wrote to his kids (as Father Christmas) each year, telling the stories of what had been happening at the North Pole that year. What's your all-time favorite holiday song? O Holy Night because I love the melody. What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? I do Christmas in summer here in Oz so that makes it swimming or otherwise avoiding the heat. But in winter I have a weird liking for walking in the cold, as long as I can thaw out with a good book afterward. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? Both my current cats I gave myself for Christmas but that probably doesn't count. I got a membership to the local zoo which was fun as I like to wander around there. Other than that, like a true bookworm, every year I love getting books. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? Nothing big but I'm sure I'll come up with a list of books and art supplies that would be great to get. Any resolutions or goals for next year? Both to write more and to have more time for non-writing things. Maybe I need a clone for Christmas?
Emma Douglas would love to live in a world where professional napping was a thing. But until then, she thinks writing books is a pretty awesome alternative. When not writing about imaginary people, she can be found reading, doing something crafty, binge-watching TV, playing her latest song crush on repeat, or singing badly in her car. She lives in Melbourne, Australia in a tiny house stuffed full of books, too many craft supplies and two cats who take up more space than you would expect. Find out more about Emma at www.emmadouglasbooks.com.
The best gift of all is the one you share with someone else. . .
From the moment he strode through the iron gate and into the offices of Two Love Lane on a crisp December day, it was obvious that Deacon Banks was something different. He wasn’t a Charleston native, not with that adorable Yankee accent. And unlike the usual client at the elegant matchmaking agency, he had no interest in finding a woman to marry—just a few no-strings dates while he was in town. Macy Frost takes her professional services very seriously—how could she not, when she’s rumored to be a direct descendant of Cupid? Tech entrepreneur Deacon says he’s just trying to make his social-climbing aunt happy by being seen out and about with a few prominent beauties, but Macy insists she can make her client fall in love…for real. And Deacon can’t help but think she might be right. As charming as the palmetto trees and magnificent harbor may be, it’s the beautiful, breath-of-fresh-air Macy who’s become Deacon’s favorite part of the scenery. But can the hopelessly romantic Southern belle stop trying to fix him up and just let Cupid do his work on her own heart?
When do the holidays official start for you?
Thanksgiving Day, as soon as I turn on the TV to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade! Can't miss the Rockettes segment, ever! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Inhaling the delicious scent of the Christmas tree, seeing the twinkling lights, hanging out with the family and our friends. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? I always make frosted sugar cookies, and I always try to watch as many Christmas movies as I can. I also try to go to the Holiday Boat Parade in Charleston harbor! What's your favorite holiday movie? It's a Wonderful Life; I never get tired of it! Do you have a favorite holiday book? Definitely How the Grinch Stole Christmas.... What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Away in the Manger sung by Julie Andrews--the UK version of the melody What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? baking bread, using my crockpot, reading cozy books, buying myself winter clothes, going to parties, eating holiday cookies What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? My favorite gift is having my family all together in one place. Nothing matters more. Sometimes we can't all be together, so I cherish the Christmases that we can celebrate under one roof. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? Yes, having my own little family together again--the last two years some of us have been overseas. But if I have to mention something from the store, I'd love to have some canvases and paint and painting lessons! Any resolutions or goals for next year? Yes, to slow down and get centered, to really look around each day and marvel at this beautiful world filled with people who all want to love and be loved. I refuse to let the haters in. Oh, and I have to keep dancing to my Alexa, haha!!
Kieran Kramer, author of the Impossible Bachelors series, was born in Washington, D.C. to an Air Force pilot father and actress/singer mother. She grew up mainly on Johns Island, a rural sea island near Charleston, South Carolina, where she helped build her family’s log home.
Having worked for the CIA and as journalist for The Charlotte Observer, Kieran is now a stay-at-home mom. She once won $34,000 on Wheel of Fortune, and also won on Family Feud. She’s been married to her naval officer husband, Chuck, for twenty-one years, and they have three children. Tis the season to fall in love! These five bestselling authors bring you great tiding of highlanders and romances this holiday season! A HIGHLANDER'S HOPE by Terri Brisbin A village harlot who would never dream she could have a different life meets a Highlander who visits for the holidays and brings with him an offer and hope. A HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS WAGER by Lecia Cornwall When a snowstorm forces a charming lass hiding a broken heart to take shelter in a castle with three fine Highland lairds just days before Christmas, there’s a game afoot—who will be the first to win a kiss and maybe her heart. A SCOT FOR CHRISTMAS by Bronwen Evans She's ready to embrace her life and future as a spinster, he's trying to have one last hurrah before he gives into his family's wishes and proposes marriage to his neighbor, but fate has other ideas when the lady and the Scot meet at a holiday house party in the wilds of Scotland. LEFTOVER MISTLETOE by Lavinia Kent What happens when a highlander finds himself stranded, maybe kidnapped, with an English lady around Christmas... maybe the mistletoe will help answer that question. SWEET HOME HIGHLAND CHRISTMAS by May McGoldrick An encounter between an English officer and a desperate aunt trying to keep custody of her young niece leads to a little magic during the holidays. Terri Brisbin When do the holidays official start for you? Thanksgiving! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Family! And now watching the grandkids celebrating! Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Our traditions have changed a bit as my sons married and grandkids began arriving. The one thing we still do is gather to decorate the Christmas tree at our house. What's your favorite holiday movie? Christmas Vacation and Elf Do you have a favorite holiday book? I just love reading holiday romance anthologies! What's your all-time favorite holiday song? A Christmas Wrapping by the Waitresses What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? I love walking in my neighborhood after a new snow. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? My favorite gift was when I arranged a surprise family trip to Disney World for Christmas! It was hard but I succeed! Do you have any items on your wish list this year? None yet but there will be! Any resolutions or goals for next year? It's been a really difficult 2017 so my resolution for 2018 is to make sure my loved ones know they are...loved. Lecia Cornwall When do the holidays official start for you?We officially call it Christmas the day of the Toronto Santa Claus Parade, which is in late November. We watch the parade on TV, have our first toast of eggnog, and enjoy the season's first batch of Very Special Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies. Then on the closest Saturday to December 13--that's my husband's birthday--we go out as a family to get our Christmas tree (we still have a real tree) and put it up. What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Family and food. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Christmas baking is a huge tradition for us. I make Very Special Christmas Chocolate Chip cookies, Quiche for Christmas breakfast, and Kulach (Ukrainian Christmas bread). What's your favorite holiday movie? Hard Question! The Bishop's Wife, perhaps, though Love Actually, White Christmas, and Polar Express are very close seconds (or thirds and fourths). Do you have a favorite holiday book? I have a small collection of Christmas books that my mother used to put out as decorations every year. When I was little, I loved the one about old fashioned Victorian Christmases, and I adored the gorgeous illustrations in a children's book called Once In Royal David's City. My mother also had a book of poetry and stories called 1000 Beautiful Things, which includes a story called The Other Wise Man by Henry Van Dyke. I'm not sure if it's the memory of my mother reading that story to me or the story itself I loved, but I still have the battered book, and treasure it. What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Another tough question! "Merry Christmas, Darling" by The Carpenters, "J-I-N-G-L-E Bells" by Frank Sinatra, and anything from Loreena McKennitt's album To Drive The Cold Winter Away. What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? I love planning for the holidays, and being outdoors, that includes walking with my dog through the fall colours along the Bow River, baking and cooking for Thanksgiving (in mid-October in Canada), decorating the front porch for Halloween, raking leaves and putting the garden to bed for the winter, and stringing up the outdoor Christmas lights on one of the last nice fall weekends before it gets too cold (we don't turn them on until December 1, which was one of my father's rules). My now-grown kids still make ice luminaria for Christmas and New Year's Eve whenever it's cold enough outside to freeze a bucket of water (Try this, readers, they're gorgeous, and a little bit of Christmas magic in the dark. Fill a bucket with water. It freezes overnight, but the centre of the ice block stays liquid. Take the ice block out of the bucket, chip a hole in the top, pour out the water, and set the luminaria outside with a tea light candle inside). What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? When I was first married, my in-laws gave us airline tickets so we could fly to Calgary to spend Christmas together as a family. Christmas with my own family growing up was usually very stressful, but my in-laws filled Christmas with love, laughter, warmth, and fun. Although my children are grown (aged 23 and 26), I've been fortunate enough to have them home for Christmas every year, and to me that's the best Christmas gift of all. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? New books are always welcome or maybe just an extra shelf for my massive (and ever growing) to-be-read pile! There's also the traditional Miss America answer to this question--a wish for world peace--but doesn't it just seem more important than ever this year? Any resolutions or goals for next year? I always set goals in categories: personal, career, home/family, and new things I want to try. I'm usually good about achieving the career and family goals, but not so good at the personal or new ones. I already know that next year will be full of huge new challenges and opportunities for me, so at the moment my goal is to find my way through whatever comes with as much grace and balance as possible. Bronwen Evans When do the holidays official start for you? Mid December What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Guilt free reading and being with my family. Even an author needs down time. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Besides putting up my Christmas tree? I always make a pavlova with kiwi fruit for our Christmas day dessert. Remember it's summer in New Zealand. What's your favorite holiday movie? I have three - Love Actually (one of my favourite movies of all time) and Die Hard and Lethal Weapon. I love action movies. Do you have a favorite holiday book? No, but I will say one Christmas a friend kept telling me to read JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood as I had never read it. So I decided to read book 1. Well, over the Christmas break I read all 12 in a row! What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Mary's Boy Child by Boney M What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? Well, it's summer in New Zealand at Christmas, and I love simply getting out my Kindle, pulling up my lounger, and lying by my pool reading a great romance book. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? I love giving, who doesn't. So I usually give anonymous gifts to my friends children. I knew one child was saving for a present but would be short, so I sent him a card with money in it from Santa. Seeing his joy was priceless. My most memorable gift was when I was 7 and I got my first puppy. I'll never forget seeing his little nose poking over the edge of the box and hearing his little barks. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? Not really. I have a book wish list and at least everyone knows I'm easy to buy for. Any resolutions or goals for next year? I haven't thought about it yet, but I usually just wish for my family to be happy and healthy. May McGoldrick When do the holidays official start for you? The holiday season has no start or end in our house. We are a multi-cultural and multi-denominational family. One holiday hands off the fun to the next...and the next...and the next...And then we start again! Our full name is 'May Your Holidays be Endless McGoldrick'! (You can call us 'Festive' for short.) What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Family get-togethers Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Before Christmas, we have a 'Gingerbread House Night.' I always think simple...graham crackers, candies, some frosting for the roof of a quaint little cottage. My competitive and mildly cutthroat family members, however, build the Golden Gate Bridge, the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel Tower, the White House... What's your favorite holiday movie? Love, Actually Do you have a favorite holiday book? The Night Before Christmas What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Christmas is All Around You (Bill Nighy via The Troggs) What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? Pick your own peaches. Pick your own apples. Pick your own pumpkin. Cut your own Christmas tree. And reading. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? For all the years our sons were young, we hid Christmas gifts all over the house. Assembly and wrapping took place after the boys were asleep on Christmas Eve. I remember the year when I used the last bit of wrapping paper while congratulating myself on my precision and planning. What I didn't know was that Jim had yet to wrap my gifts. The next day, we all lined up on the stairs and then raced down to see what Santa left for everyone. The most charming gift was sitting under the tree. A large black trash bag containing Nikoo's gifts...tied up with a bow. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? A cottage on the beach in Southern California. Jim says, "Keep writing." Any resolutions or goals for next year? Smile every day. Write every day. Make others happy.
With shades of It’s a Wonderful Life, one man must face his past to find his future this Christmas.
In the last year, George's life has drastically changed. The formerly homeless veteran now has a job he likes, a family in the residents of Darling, VT, and for the first time in years, a home. But while his present is good, he's still haunted by the past, a past that appears shortly before Christmas when the older sister of his brother-in-arms hunts him down and finds him in Darling, working at the Ladybug Garden Center. Amy’s looking for closure for her family after her brother's death in the Middle East, but the serious man she finds working in Vermont doesn’t resemble the soldier she remembers from years before. This man is hardened and yet somehow fragile, too, and in her desire to find out what really happened to her brother, she learns more about George than she ever expected. With a little Christmas magic and the whole town supporting them, can these two bruised hearts make a future together?
When do the holidays official start for you?
December 1 - or the weekend just preceding it. That's when we get out the decorations and go crazy. What's your favorite thing about the holidays? THE MOVIES. I love sitting with my kids (who are of the nearly-adult variety) and watching holiday movies with a glass of wine or hot cocoa. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Tons! There are certain things we bake. We have a whole bunch of Christmas Eve traditions, including a barbecue (steak!), putting presents under the tree, going for a drive to see the lights, and watching The Polar Express. And even at their age, they still ask me to read 'Twas the Night Before Christmas. What's your favorite holiday movie? I have too many - my fave depends on my mood. Top contenders: Christmas Vacation, Christmas with the Kranks, White Christmas, Love Actually, The Polar Express. Do you have a favorite holiday book? Hmmm. I don't tend to re-read holiday themed books, but I'll confess that I have a soft spot for any (all) of the Christmas books in the Chesapeake Shores series. Those O'Briens... :) What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Nat King Cole's version of The Christmas Song. Simplicity and nostalgia all rolled into one smooth voice. What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? Cozy nights with a glass of wine and a book. LOL! Seriously though, I miss living near the Rockies, because the skiing there spoiled me for anywhere else. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? One year my sister put together a recipe book with our mom's fave recipes over the years. She added some of her own, too, but if I want something that Mom used to make back in the eighties? It's in that book! Do you have any items on your wish list this year? Yes! Yoga socks, books, and a kindle. Any resolutions or goals for next year? Do better. :)
A busy wife and mother of three (two daughters plus the family dog), Donna Alward believes hers is the best job in the world: a combination of stay-at-home mom and romance novelist.
Donna loves being back on the East Coast of Canada after nearly twelve years in Alberta where her romance career began, writing about cowboys and the west. She is the author of Somebody Like You, Somebody's Baby, and Someone to Love.
Sydney Ragsdale is divorced, but her husband is still calling the shots. In an attempt to shake free from his hold, she and her daughter, RayAnne, head for tiny Hopewell, North Carolina to the only asset her ex has no control over – a decaying farmhouse that once belonged to her grandparents. She finds solace at The Book Bea, the bookstore she’d loved as a child during her summer stays.
Kevin MacAlea, Mac to his friends, is the local high school history teacher and baseball coach. Father of a twelve-year-old son, he’s Hopewell, North Carolina’s most sought after bachelor. His young bride abandoned him and his son just before Christmas and has never come back. It has left his son bitter about Christmas which is hard for Mac who loves the magic of the season. He’s been the Santa here in Hopewell since the year Seth was born. When a catastrophe forces The Book Bea to close before the end of the year, everyone in the small town is feeling the loss. While Sydney is already off-balance by the bad news, her ex-husband breaks a promise to their daughter that sends Ray Anne running away. As Sydney tries to figure out what her next steps are she discovers all of the answers are right here in Hopewell.
When do the holidays official start for you?
I used to believe I was an "after Thanksgiving" gal when it came to gearing up for the holidays, however, the last two years I've had Christmas books come out in October so I'm totally amped up extra early. Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas starts in late October too, and I’ll be tuned into those movies no matter when they start. So, Merry Christmas with a pumpkin and turkey feather on top! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? The smell of pine from a fresh cut tree throughout the house, and getting more intense every time I vacuum up the needles. Warm aromatic afternoons of baking. Crafting homemade gifts. Fellowship. Christmas movies and cocoa. Glossy gift wrap, and wire ribbon that makes a simple shoelace bow look pretty on a package. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? Baking cookies. Old family favorites, and a few new recipes which always results in at least one complete #fail. What's your favorite holiday movie? My favorite all-time holiday movie is the original Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is still my very, very favorite. I’m not embarrassed to admit that I still tear up when the Abominable Snowman bonks poor Rudolph on the head. Thank goodness for good ol’ Hermie the wanna-be dentist! Do you have a favorite holiday book? I love all those special sized hardcover holiday books. I have a shelf dedicated to them. One that I really love is by Debbie Macomber -- THERE'S SOMETHING ABOUT CHRISTMAS. The beautiful gold cover perfectly envelopes the warm story inside. What's your all-time favorite holiday song? Silent Night. What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? Bundling up and stargazing on a chilly night. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? Homemade gifts. Always! Among them, an old Singer sewing machine with the metal frame turned into a table, a handcrafted snack jar made out of wood with a mason jar, loop potholders, and homemade Christmas ornaments. A girl can never have too many ornaments, right? Do you have any items on your wish list this year? I don't have any tangible items on my wish list. Making happy memories is all I wish for this year. Any resolutions or goals for next year? To live a healthier lifestyle, and figure out how to do that while integrating more book events into my schedule so I can meet more of the dear readers who’ve blessed me with spending their free time reading my books. Thanks, y’all.
USA Today bestselling author NANCY NAIGLE whips up small-town love stories with a dash of suspense and a whole lot of heart. Now happily retired, she devotes her time to writing, antiquing, and the occasional spa day with friends. A native of Virginia Beach, she currently calls North Carolina home. Nancy is the author of Christmas Joy.
New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant returns to Texas, where a small-town legend just might find the greatest gift of all. . .
’Tis the season for ex-Navy SEAL Clayton East to come home for the holidays—even if the mood at home is anything but festive. His father is ill. The East Ranch is in financial trouble. And now it’s on Clayton, the prodigal son, to make sure his family doesn’t lose everything. Headstrong Abby Harper is like a mother to her younger brothers, who she’s helped raise since she was a teenager. Keeping them in line is no small task while she’s also working toward her college degree. And now that one of her brothers has been arrested for stealing cattle at the East Ranch, Abby is at her wits’ end. But there is a silver lining: Clayton East. He believes in second chances, and is willing to give one to her brother this Christmas. Letting beautiful Abby—and the inescapable longing in his heart—off the hook, however, is a whole ’nother story. Could it be that the woman of this local hero’s dreams has been back at home all along?
When do the holidays official start for you?
I'd say October 1st, because I get ready for Halloween. Then November 1st to get ready for Thanksgiving, but it day after Thanksgiving, it's all Christmas! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? The decorations. I love to see it all! Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? We spend Christmas Eve at my parents where there is a bunch of finger foods. Then Christmas Day everyone comes to my house where we have gumbo (Cajun tradition). Then we head to the movies about about 2. What's your favorite holiday movie? It's a toss up between White Christmas and Love Actually and Christmas Vacation. We watch them every year. Do you have a favorite holiday book? No. I'm an equal opportunist for holiday books. :) What's your all-time favorite holiday song? White Christmas What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? Around me we have the Texas Renaissance Festival, which is the largest in the US. It always begins at the end of September and runs until Thanksgiving weekend. It always signals the begin of fall for us. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? I received my long-haired Chihuahua for Christmas. She was unexpected, but so amazing! Do you have any items on your wish list this year? Walls. The flood from Hurricane Harvey took everything, but I'd like walls and doors for privacy again. lol Any resolutions or goals for next year? I try to make some improvement each year. For 2017 it was balance. I'm not sure what 2018 will be yet. I might still need to work on balancing everything.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Donna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories. She’s written more than thirty novels spanning multiple genres of romance including the bestselling Dark King stories, Dark Craving, Night’s Awakening, and Dawn’s Desire. Her acclaimed series, Dark Warriors, feature a thrilling combination of Druids, primeval gods, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible.
She lives with her two children, a dog, and four cats in Texas.
A wallflower determined to fulfill a dying promise, the rogue she jilted years ago, and an orphaned baby are all brought together amidst the magic of Christmas in this new novella from Manda Collins.
Miss Merry Parks makes a deathbed promise to a schoolfriend that her infant daughter will be taken to her absent father. There’s only one problem—to find the baby’s father, she’ll have to consult his cousin, Viscount Wrotham, the man she jilted five years ago. The man she couldn’t forget. Alex Ponsonby, Viscount Wrotham, is stunned to find Merry Parks—looking more lovely than ever--on his doorstep with an infant in her arms. His shock soon turns to dismay when he learns his own cousin William is the man who abandoned his wife and child. As head of the family he’s duty bound to see right is done. But he can't let this opportunity pass. He’ll take Merry and the baby to his cousin, but he’ll woo her back in the process. Merry agrees to travel with Alex and the baby to Wrotham Castle, where the entire Ponsonby family has gathered for Christmas, but her plans to see the baby settled then leave are ruined by a snowstorm. After five years apart, Alex and Merry will spend the week getting reacquainted. Perhaps it’s the spirit of the holiday, or the magic of the season, but there could be something else in the air this Yuletide…A Christmas Reunion.
When do the holidays official start for you?
The first frosty morning when there's a nip in the air and I can feel that winter is on the way. I love that feeling! What's your favorite thing about the holidays? Getting together with family and friends is the best. We don't necessarily see one another all that much during the year, but we all make time during the holidays. Are there any holiday traditions you do every year without fail? I listen to carols sung by the King's College Choir every year and spend at least one day boiling cloves and spices on the stove to get the house smelling like Christmas. What's your favorite holiday movie? The Thin Man starring Myrna Loy and William Powell as Nick and Nora Charles. (Of course MY favorite holiday movie has witty repartee and murder in it!) Do you have a favorite holiday book? That would be Christmas Angel by Jo Beverley. It's one of her early Company of Rogues books and I love the way Lucien and Beth and her children become a family over the course of the story. What's your all-time favorite holiday song? The Holly and the Ivy. What's your favorite activity during fall or winter? I'm not really the outdoor type (though I have been known to go outdoors) so I like to snuggle up inside with a cup of hot chocolate and read. Or knit. What's your favorite gift you've ever received or given? My grandmother gave me the gift of the love of reading. It's the best thing I've ever been given. Do you have any items on your wish list this year? I'm at an age now where the things I wish for aren't material (though obviously there are some that I'd like--a new car, for instance) but stuff like health and for my family to be safe and happy. I wouldn't turn down a pretty scarf, though! Any resolutions or goals for next year? Just to keep writing books that my audience enjoys reading!
Manda Collins is the author of the Studies in Scandal series, The Lords of Anarchy series, The Ugly Duckling series and the Wicked Widows series as well as several other Regency-set romances. She spent her teen years wishing she’d been born a couple of centuries earlier, preferably in the English countryside. Time travel being what it is, she resigned herself to life with electricity and indoor plumbing, and read lots of books. When she’s not writing, she’s helping other people use books, as an academic librarian.
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ONE LAST GIFT BY NANCY STOPPER
They can’t forget their shared history, but when they see each other again after ten years, can they put the past behind them? Will the Christmas spirit help Jack and Casey find their way back to each other?
A poignant and touching story about life, love, family, losses, and forgiveness during Christmas time in Oak Grove. Even though this is a book five in the series, it is a standalone novel, only loosely connected to the first four books in the series.
Jack and Casey were young and in love ten years ago until the loss of their baby draws them apart. A successful businessman, Jack has avoided his hometown ever since he left to look for a new beginning, without the hole in his heart the sorrow of losing his child had created. He asked for Casey to go with him, but Casey could not think about leaving her Oak Grove, the town she loved. Ten years of life and living without seeing Casey has been okay for Jack until his father's heart attack forces him to come home and face his past. There is a lot of story and churning emotions fit into the novella. Jack is a good man, he has created a new business and work-filled life away from home. He is successful, responsible, and capable, providing jobs and making a livelihood. He sees his past mistakes and is willing to work on the issues, the hurt, and the healing that is required. Casey is a lovely young woman, who has done her best to overcome the past, the pain, and the loss. She has a new focus in life, she has her place in the town, she is making a good living, with a job she loves, she has her son and she is willing to fight the world to keep him safe and happy. I love how the author, with each story, is willing to dig deep, go to those places in mind and heart that the characters rather would hide, and out the aching feels and fears they hide buried inside. Jack and Casey have to have the tough and difficult conversations with each other. There have to be the airing of the wounds of their hearts for them to heal, and they have to be willing to do the challenging thing, forgiving and learning to move on, to make compromises and sacrifices, to put each other, and the family, first when building up the future. A tender and warm story, a tale of big emotions and passion for life, with Christmassy feels and scenery, the magic of the time for peace and love in the air ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
He made a promise he intends to keep
Harmony Savitt is off-limits for navy SEAL Kyle Bracken. Not only is she his best friend's little sister, she's also a single mother and the widow of a fellow SEAL killed in action. This soldier needs to keep his distance. But something between them has changed... Despite the new complicated feelings he has for Harmony, when his family comes under attack, there's no one Kyle trusts more than her to help him get answers. When that threat extends to her and her daughter, though, he vows to protect them...even if it means putting his own heart on the line.
The story leads with charming characters who captivated my heart and were likable, the kind of people you want to spend your time with.
Kyle Bracken and Harmony Savitt had known each other all their lives, they grew up together, they were best friends, they had a unique, special connection that reached to Harmony's daughter as well. This homecoming for Kyle has a different tune than before, and suddenly the burning feelings between the best friends, Harmony and Kyle, are taking over and the desire they feel for each other is something either can deny. The story has a mysterious atmosphere from all the secrets the cast of characters is holding. With the loving, warm family connection between everyone, the amount of unrevealed information was staggering. Add to that the mysterious, suspenseful events that are escalating and turning into life and death situations, and the tension ascend. There are a lot of elements in the story that all demand the reader's attention. I liked the plot, the premises to the story, I found the characters enjoyable to be around. The author's writing style is a bit wordy. She can verbose about a mundane event for so long that I found my thoughts scattering several times. I know some enjoy the poetic kind of storytelling, so this is just my personal little quirk. A whirlwind of escalating events, a mix of love and desire with old friends and family, small town living, odd, puzzling mysteries, sabotage, and danger create a good, entertaining story ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Clean Romance
Expectant Amish Widows, Book 1 Published: February 2016
Newly widowed Amish woman, Anita Graber, has returned to live with her brother and his family in Lancaster County.
As an expectant widow, she is quite surprised when everyone from the bishop's wife to her brother decides that her baby needs a father. Anita endures many embarrassing moments as she's forced into one awkward situation after another. Even though another man is the last thing on her mind, she finds a friend in her sister-in-law's brother, Simon. Anita wonders why everyone has rejected Simon as a suitable match for her. Will Anita finally convince everyone that she and her baby are happy on their own? Could the man that no one sees her with, be the very man who eventually captures her heart? On Sale for $0.99
Samantha Price is a best selling author who knew she wanted to become a writer at the age of seven, while her grandmother read to her Peter Rabbit in the sun room. Though the adventures of Peter and his sisters Flopsy, Mopsy, and Cotton-tail started Samantha on her creative journey, it is now her love of Amish culture that inspires her to write. Her writing is clean and wholesome, with more than a dash of sweetness. Though she has penned over one hundred and twenty Amish Romance and Amish Mystery books, Samantha is just as in love today with exploring the spiritual and emotional journeys of her characters as she was the day she first put pen to paper. Samantha lives in a quaint Victorian cottage with three rambunctious dogs.
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Darien Avery followed Caitlyn Sinclair from England to Australia, memories of their intense love affair fresh in his mind. When they arrive he quickly learns he isn't the only man in this new country who's infatuated with the breathtaking, blonde-haired beauty.
Women are turning up dead, victims to the worst kinds of depraved acts—women who fit Caitlyn's description—and every clue to the murderer leads back to Darien's family. Frantic to save Caitlyn's life, he sends her up north to her family, hoping to free her from the murderer's grasp. But she never makes it there. When he receives word that her dead body has been found, his heart breaks and he throws himself into a life of debauchery and sin as punishment for failing to save the woman he loves. When yet another murder occurs, Darien believes he will be accused of the crime, so he flees. He finds himself in Jarvisfield—the same town where Caitlyn's family lives. But he soon learns that the murderer who has been butchering blonde-haired, green-eyed women has followed him there. He's in for even more of a shock when he discovers that his beloved Caitlyn is not dead, and has in fact, been living in Jarvisfield for months. This time he will protect her. However, Caitlyn is having none of it. She believes Darien has betrayed her, and she won't fall for him again. No longer is she his lustful lover, but rather a lady of chastity, determined to live an independent life—one without Darien. Content Warning: contains sex, strong language, and some violence
“My sister has told me often that lust isn’t a becoming feature of any woman. We should only indulge ourselves in chastity and nothing else.”
Having refastened his trousers, he righted his shirt before reaching out to her, his fingers softly grazing her arm. “What will you tell your sister about us?” he asked. She shrugged. “Probably that chastity is nowhere near as satisfying as lust.” “I’m serious,” he said from behind her, his breath hot against her neck. “Will you tell her the truth about our relationship?” She stopped what she was doing and took a step away from him, a sudden slight uneasiness filling her. “It’s not really the note one pens to their sister, now is it?” “So what do we do?” he asked. “We can’t continue sneaking around as we did back in England.” She was silent for a while, wondering on his words. He was right. This place wasn’t England, nor could they expect to carry on as such. Slowly, she turned back to face him. “We return to the hall.” Darien followed Caitlyn back to the ballroom, puzzled by the strange emotions settling in the air between them. Each walking discretely out from behind the velvet curtain, they stepped in the direction of the crowd of revellers scattered around the hall, some dancing, some indulging in the supplied refreshments, others still trying to escape the heat of the room. Upon arriving at the edge of the crowd, she went to turn away from him but he reached out to her, stopping her. He could take no more of this. “You’d just walk away from me?” he asked, confused by what was happening. “After what just transpired between us, what we did, you’d leave me as if—” “As if we’re little more than casual acquaintances,” she cut him off. “You’re engaged to my sister, Darien, not to me.” “That was not of my choosing. You are of my choosing though,” he told her yet again. Taking a deep breath, he tried to control his growing frustration with this woman. “You didn’t seem to care much about either of our engagements a few moments ago when you were writhing in passion in my arms.” “But the world didn’t see that,” she replied, diverting her gaze away from him. “That is a transgression only we two shall bear witness to.” Reaching out to her, his fingers stroked the soft skin of her upper arm gently. “What if I don’t care if we’re seen together or what will be said about it? What if I told you I hoped some rumour of our affair would find its way back to your father and he might allow me to break my engagement to Martha and insist I marry you instead?” She pulled away from him, stepping back to create a small space between them. “In case you’ve forgotten, I’m not one of the girls you rent out in that whorehouse you run. I can’t be bought and sold or bargained with to suit your will,” she said in a tart tone, turning on her heel to leave. “That wasn’t what I meant,” he said as he reached out to her. “Caitlyn, wait.” But she wouldn’t listen to him. She instead walked away and back into the crowd of dancers and other guests.
Faye Hall's passion driven, mystery filled books are set in small townships of North Queensland, Australia during the late 1800's.
Each of her novels bring something symbolically Australian to her readers, from Aboriginal herbal remedies, to certain gemstones naturally only found in this part of the world. Each of her books tell of a passionate connection between the hero and heroine, surrounded and threatened by deceit, scandal, theft and sometimes even murder. These romances swerve from the traditional romances as Faye aims to give her readers so much more intrigue, whilst also revealing the hidden histories of rural townships of North Queensland. Faye finds her inspiration from the histories of not only the township she grew up in, but the many surrounding it. She also bases most of her characters on people she has met in her life. Faye was able to live her own passion driven romance, marrying the love of her life after a whirlwind romance in 2013. Together they are raising their 9 children in a remote country town in northern Queensland, Australia. website | blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Tumblr | Pinterest | Instagram | Flipagram | Youtube
Bear's Shadow
Vendetta Series Book 2
by Desiree L. Scott
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Nikki Calhoun is on the run, fueled by terror of the shadowy world she had married into. Desperate to survive and nowhere to hide, Nikki turns to the wolf shifter pack of her childhood but it’s hard for her to trust anyone, even the people closest to her.
Enforcer and bear-shifter Bret Axel receives a call from his cousin who manages his Portland nightclub about suspicious activity. After obtaining the approval of his Alpha, he travels to Portland. Two nights later, screams of a woman shatter the silence of the dock and with the help of his cousin, they save her from being killed.
A twisted tale of hunter and prey, two worlds collide as Bret falls for the human and then struggles to convince her that they are meant to be together. It’s up to him and the Crescent Ice Pack to get to the bottom of the brutal acts of one man. Will Nikki survive the wrath of her estranged husband or will the murky world of Edward Calhoun destroy her and any who try to help?
I have been writing since I was sixteen years old and love to write both horror and romantic suspense. I think there have been many influences within my life that has set me on the path that I can not help but walk. A few of those names consist of Karen Rose, Lisa Gardener, Nora Roberts, Cynthia Eden, Catherine Anderson, Laura Griffin, Andrea Kane, and Lisa Jackson, just to name a few. This list by no means defines by own writing but they have indeed influenced my desire to live outside of my own world and to create the thrill of my dreams. I live on 40 + acres in the SHOW ME state with my six year old daughter, with the wonderful addition of four dogs and a handful of chickens. The weather is unpredictable, but the surrounding beauty of the country helps my creativity as I sit on my top deck with my laptop and coffee close by.
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She won't stop until she finds the truth
Caroline Bennett is not looking for a summer romance. As a police officer at Starlight Point amusement park, she's got more important things to worry about, like solving a cold case involving a girl's mysterious death thirty years ago. Construction engineer Matt Dunbar is one of the few people who'll talk about the incident, but even he's not eager to dig up the past. Matt's working on a new state-of-the-art roller coaster--a project that could make or break his career--yet he still finds time for Caroline. As the end of summer approaches, her investigation implicates Matt's company, and she has to choose: justice or the funny, charming man she's falling for.
This was an interesting story with unique premises that enthralled my mind. The amusement park backdrop was something I have not run into before, and it created interesting possibilities and connections.
Both the main characters, Caroline Bennett and Matt Dunbar are young, goal oriented, focused, and determined people. They were easy to like, and I was invested to see them work for their relationship, to find the common ground, learn to make compromises, to make their relationship work and balance the busy lives they lived. The story takes it time to develop throughout the summer, so there was ample time to build a solid foundation for a lasting connection. Unfortunately, Caroline is obsessed with the events of the past and uses most of the time they have together with Matt to investigate and interrogate him, to try to lure him to spill secrets he must hold, things she is convinced he must be aware of. This investigative obsession started to get tiresome as the summer unfolds. I kept reading, hoping that Caroline would show interest towards Matt, that she would focus on him and be discovering something with him, instead of always, each time they meet, pulling the conversation back to the past. With this mistrust and suspicion as the 'foundation' of their connection, it was not easy to believe there was a chance for them to build a durable, solid connection. A challenging story, with an investigation into the past that can fumble any future possibilities to the families involved. ~ Three Spoons |