Kissing Her Crush
Sugar City #2 By: Ophelia London Releasing November 9, 2015 Entangled Bliss He’s sweet trouble... Natalie Holden wants three things: To be the best chocolate chemist in Hershey, Pennsylvania, to prove her chocolate recipe can help teenage depression, and to get over gorgeous Luke Elliott, the guy she’s had a crush on since birth. Unfortunately, he’s the microbiologist set to debunk her chocolate study. And, of course, he looks more delicious than ever! Luke Elliott is still bitter over his divorce. Work is his passion now, and landing a huge promotion is just what he needs. What he doesn’t need is a crackpot trying to prove that chocolate cures depression. The last thing he expects is for the crackpot to be Natalie Holden—his “what if” girl from high school—or that she’d still tempt the hell out of him. They may not see eye-to-eye on her project, but they can’t deny the explosive chemistry that keeps pulling them together. Even when it risks their jobs and the very different futures they both want…
This story is all sugar and spice, and might make you want to eat some chocolate..
The chemistry between Luke and Natalie is sizzling. They have the history from their high school days, even though those memories are not nearly as clear to Luke as they are to Natalie. Now within the first meeting, the sparks are flying. But to find out, that he is the enemy, the one who has the power to stop her research, makes things awkward. And the ethical matters of them get involved while working together, well that's another matter all together. But when left in each own company, the spark fires, and I mean literally takes on fire. They almost set a forest fire with a makeout session. And brake amusement park equipment. The banter is non stop, it is fun, entertaining, and flirty. But there's not just the sexual chemistry that is off the charts, they also have a deeper connection, feelings that are difficult to handle, but create some of the sweetest moments between them, like when Luke is taking care of her after he poison her. Yes, you really need to read the story! The teen age depression that the research is based around of, and Natalie's brother's illness are handled with dignity and respect. Lots of information comes forward as a natural part of the story, that might be eye opening. I didn't understand much about the research itself, and how they could prove what they were after, in such a short time, in only in a lab. That was left a little blurry in my mind, but really, not the point in the story so lets just move on. Even with their jobs in jeopardy, Luke and Natalie's strong connection keeps bringing them into each other's arms. The story goes from laugh out loud funny, to serious matters of teenage depression, warms out hearts and makes you smile, and hum that song "Sugar" ~ Four Spoons
“Natalie.”
“I don’t want to talk about it.” “Let me just say—” “Luke, don’t.” Tiny tears clung to her lashes, gutting him again. “I don’t want your pity—I couldn’t stand it. Not after…” She stopped like she couldn’t say the next word. “Not after everything.” “Pity?” he repeated, wanting desperately to understand, but falling short like he always did with her. She turned to him, looking pale and so unhappy. “I know that’s how you feel, and I know what you’re thinking.” She knew what he was thinking? He didn’t know what he was thinking, or what he was feeling. When he looked at this woman in the short dress and rubber boots, her hair blowing in the breeze around her tear-streaked face, he tried to pinpoint his feelings, name them. But there were so many he couldn’t grab hold of a single one. All he knew for sure was he admired the hell out of her. No, it wasn’t admiration he felt. It was something else, something that made his heart pound when he looked at her, when he thought about her kindness, her stubborn determination, the way everything she did made him want a bigger life than even he’d planned, while driving him absolutely out of his head…his screwed-up head that wasn’t ready for a relationship. Or was it? “You have no idea what I’m thinking,” he said. “No idea what I’m feeling—about you.” He walked to her, reached out and touched her cheek. “But we both need to find out.”
USA Today bestselling author Ophelia London was born and raised among the redwood trees in beautiful northern California. Once she was fully educated, she decided to settle in Florida, but her car broke down in Texas and she’s lived in Dallas ever since. A cupcake and treadmill aficionado (obviously those things are connected), she spends her time watching arthouse movies and impossibly trashy TV, while living vicariously through the characters she writes. Ophelia is the author of AIMEE & THE HEARTTHROB; DEFINITELY, MAYBE IN LOVE; the Abby Road series; Perfect Kisses series; Sugar City series; and the brand new cozy mystery CHALK LINES & LIPSTICK. Visit all her books HERE, but don’t call when The Vampire Diaries (or Dawson’s Creek) is on. #paceylove
Author Links Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
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Guarding Sophie
Love and Football #5.5 By: Julie Brannagh Releasing November 10, 2015 Avon Impulse
Hearts beat and sparks fly when two people find shelter in each other
Seattle Sharks wide receiver Kyle Carlson needs to escape and Noel, Washington, is the perfect place for him to do it and figure out his next step. He likes the seclusion and predictability of the small town…until the biggest surprise of his life turns up in the local grocery store. Sophie Hayes has her own reasons for disappearing without a trace and moving to Noel. This mountain town makes her feel safe for the first time in a long time. But her quiet routine is threatened when Kyle walks back into her life. Growing up in the same Florida town, she always had a little thing for the sexy football player. This tie to her old life, though, could mean she has to run again, even if her heart wants to stay. When the reason she fled shows up in Noel, Kyle and Sophie, with a little extra help from his teammates, must decide to stay and fight for the life, and love, they’ve found together.
A sweet story about high school friends meeting again after ten years, and finding a new kind connection in between them.
The characters are delightful and charming. They are really easy to like and relate to, and even the biggest football players are so down to earth, not to mention care for each other. Truly a family. The author paints a clear picture of the events, elements, and surroundings. It is easy to set yourself into the story, and let it flow on. Kyle and Sophie had a crush on each other in high school, but life happened, and for ten years, they hadn't seen each other. Now, when they both are in hiding for different reasons, they find the refuge and comfort within each other. The attraction they had for each other grows into something much more, something solid and lasting. The elements of danger from Sophie's ex, Peter, gives another dimension to the story. The domestic abuse is handled with respect to the victim. Even though the story is short in length, you can see the characters grow and develop, Kyle with his ungrateful family, and Sophie comes to a place where she can face her attacker. I enjoyed the story, it is easy to submerge into the world of the tale, and forget the rest of the world with its worries, so if you are looking for a little sweet escape, this would be a perfect story for that ~ Four Spoons
Kyle Carlson wore sunglasses, but they were no match for the brilliance of Noel, Washington’s late-spring sunshine. Noel was a mountain pass and a ninety-minute drive away from his life in Seattle. The small town was the perfect place to get lost for a while.
He shielded his eyes with one hand as the real estate agent and interior decorator he’d hired drifted into view. The real estate agent held out a shiny new set of house keys to him. “It’s all yours, Kyle. Congratulations.” “Thanks,” he said. “Everything’s ready to go?” “Of course,” the decorator said. “You wanted simple but comfortable and earth tones. I hope you’ll love it. If you have questions or need anything else, please give me a call right away.” She dug into what Kyle knew was an expensive designer handbag and extended her brightly-patterned business card to him. “Thank you for the business and enjoy.” “Take a look inside,” the real estate agent said. “I think you’ll love it.” “I’ll do that,” Kyle said. “Thanks again.” The real estate agent and interior designer shook hands with him and got into their car. He raised a hand in farewell as they followed the winding, narrow road back to downtown Noel, I-90 and civilization as quickly as possible. Kyle longed for privacy like other people wanted drugs or alcohol. He hadn’t always been so anti-social. The past seven years of dealing with scores of family members, “friends” and others who thought he was their personal ATM machine since he was drafted into the NFL had finally taken its toll. He realized that his profession didn’t really lend itself to anonymity. Maybe he should have become a plumber or an auto mechanic instead of the starting wide receiver for the world champion Seattle Sharks. If he’d had a more unobtrusive life, he’d go to work from seven to four or so, go home, put his feet up, have a beer and quit worrying about the problems that came when one was lucky enough to earn a staggering income for catching a football six months a year. Kyle walked up the front path and climbed two stairs to the A-line’s wraparound front porch. The front door of his new cabin was hardwood inlaid with baguettes of beveled, leaded glass. Two stories featured floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over a view of blue skies, puffy white clouds, and endless evergreens. Instead of the rustic, unfinished structure most people would imagine when hearing the word “cabin”, his new place was as luxurious as the stylish Seattle hotel he’d just checked out of. It was also the perfect place to hide out for a couple of months. He stepped over the threshold of the cabin he’d spent a shocking amount of money on and took a deep breath. Sun-warmed, lemon-scented air surrounded him. The front door shut behind him as he glanced around. The floors were hardwood. The furnishings were earth tones, man-sized, with a few brightly colored accents to draw the eye. A gas fireplace with a stone surround dominated most of one wall in the living room. A long staircase led to a loft that overlooked the first story and three bedrooms. He’d thought long and hard about the extra two bedrooms before buying the place. If he had nowhere for anyone else to sleep, they’d be a lot less likely to visit, which worked for him. He let out a contented sigh as he realized the only sound was his breathing. He’d bought the house in the name of a trust his family and friends knew nothing about. He’d moved out of his huge house in Newcastle two days ago and used the proceeds from its sale to fund the house he was currently standing in and a one-bedroom condo in a Bellevue high rise, also in the name of the trust. It was his choice who found out where he was and what he was doing from now on. He’d have almost two months of solitude before training camp started. He couldn’t wait. Reprinted Courtesy of HarperCollinsPublishers
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. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
The gun-shy cowboy…
A cowboy's scars can last a lifetime. Ty Slater's cheerfulness is a carefully constructed armor. After losing his parents in a tragic accident, he was fostered at Thunder Mountain Ranch. Although he's learned how to survive, he hides a broken heart. He knows love leads to loss, so he's vowed never to fall in love… Unfortunately, Ty's attraction to Whitney Yates is nothing short of a maelstrom, a desire that threatens his resolve. When she's stranded at Thunder Mountain for Christmas, Ty realizes he'd better find Whitney's flaw, and fast—because his lust is too damn close to love. This red-hot cowboy is ready to bolt…unless Whitney shows him that some rides are definitely worth the risk.
These two heats up the house for thanksgiving! WOW!
This is a steamy story, the story of two people who both have experienced a great loss in their lives, that have shaped up the people they are today. But both of them have a very different way to approach life and the grief, and no matter their feelings, this will eventually affect their relationship as well. I loved the series when it first started, with the foster boys, their brotherhood and all for one attitude, with their love for Rosie and Herb, and tuna casserole, bringing them all together. A good part of the previous stories in the series were dedicated to the way they were all working on to save the ranch and built up the academy. This story is just a love story between Ty and Whitney, with lots of heat and sexy fun. Some of the brothers still show up, and of course Rosie and Herb, but I kind of missed the tune of the earlier series. But regardless, the story is good, it is great entertainment, and surely will keep you warm this holiday, there's no doubt about that ~ Four Spoons
I’ll Be There
Montgomery Brothers #6 By: Samantha Chase Releasing December 1, 2015 Sourcebooks Casablanca
Book #6 in New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Samantha Chase's popular Montgomery series
This Montgomery Has a Head for Business Working for Zach Montgomery is challenging on many levels-coming from a wealthy and powerful family, he lives by his own rules and doesn't answer to anyone. But Gabriella Martine has no intention of backing down. She's used to handling stubborn men, and it doesn't hurt that Zach is smart, charismatic...and gorgeous. And a Heart for Adventure Zach's perfect world is turned upside down when a climbing accident leaves him broken, angry, and maddeningly dependent. In his slow quest for recovery, Gabriella is always there to help...but as Zach comes to see his beautiful assistant in a new light, he is forced to re-evaluate what it really means to be a man worthy of Gabriella's love.
Shock.
Then more shock. And then…aah…Gabriella melted into Zach. After all they had been through together, after everything they had talked about tonight, this was so not the way she envisioned their time together ending. But she was completely on board with it. For years she had dreamed about what it would be like for Zach Montgomery to kiss her and now that he was, she needed to stop talking to herself and start enjoying it! Zach must have realized she was on board because his second crutch fell to the floor as his arms banded around her waist. Everything inside Gabriella melted at the heated contact. He was hard where she was soft and they just…fit. Her hands tentatively stroked their way up his muscular arms and then paused on his shoulders. It felt…naughty…to be touching her boss like this. Wait…not her boss. Zach. She was touching Zach. Get your head out of the office, girl! A low hum emanated from Zach and she let her hands slowly glide up the strong column of his throat—and stopped and lingered on his now clean-shaven jaw—and up into his hair. It was longer than he’d ever worn it but it was thick and silky and her fingers just sort of gently grasped and tugged to hold him to her. If possible, Zach moved in even closer and Gabriella was thoroughly pressed from head to toe between him and the wall. His lips were devouring her but his arms stayed as they were—tightly banded and holding her close as if he was afraid she’d get away. Not likely. Right now, there wasn’t another place on the planet she wanted to be. Which was a bit ironic considering that less than a minute ago she wanted to be anyplace but here! Funny how fast things could change. She struggled between needing to take a breath and never letting Zach’s lips leave hers again. As if reading her mind, he began to trail kisses along her cheek and her jaw. He nipped at her earlobe and then stopped to simply inhale her. “Do you have any idea how long I’ve wanted to do this?” he growled lowly against her ear. “Hopefully as long as I’ve wanted you to,” she openly admitted as she rubbed herself against him. He chuckled softly. “The first time you walked through my door, I wanted to touch you. Kiss you.” His tongue lightly traveled down the side of her neck to her collarbone. “Make love to you.” Gabriella trembled at his words. How was it possible she didn’t notice that? How had he kept it a secret for so long? And why? It was on the tip of her tongue to ask him, but he raised his head and gave her a very sexy grin before reclaiming her lips. There was no shock this time, just anticipation. Zach’s admission had pretty much done it all for her, she was putty in his hands. She wanted to move, to get to a place where her back wasn’t pressed against a wall. But again, she didn’t want to stop what Zach was doing long enough to even say anything. Her nails raked his scalp and she felt the growl vibrate through him. She pushed her breasts more firmly against him, and felt his erection nudge her belly. The wall was just fine.
New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan's Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40's to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.
When she's not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina. Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
His Most Wanted
The River Rogues #2 By: Sandra Jones Releasing November 17, 2015 Samhain It’ll take more than a badge to get her to confess her secrets. Kit Wainwright only meant to stop the thief making off with his beloved uncle’s ashes. He wants to hang up his gun, become a law-abiding citizen and leave his violent past behind. But the mayor takes notice of his sharpshooting skills, slaps a badge on his chest and puts him in charge of cleaning up this lawless town. Starting with tracking down the notorious Velvet Grace. Bordello owner Cora Reilly never meant to become a crusader. But after shooting the last corrupt sheriff in self-defense, she’s spent the last few months turning her hastily donned disguise into a local legend to defend the girls in her town from riff-raff. There’s no way Cora can trust the handsome new sheriff. Yet Kit’s kisses leave her wanting to open her arms—and her bedroom—to soothe his grief. Even if it brings him too close to the truth that could send her to the gallows. Warning: Contains a reluctant sheriff with a keen eye for a moving target, and a take-no-crap madam who isn’t about to let him get close. Okay, maybe just a little bit closer. Just this once…
The gun, still warm from shooting the sheriff, fit just right against Cora Lynn Reilly’s
ribs, wedged beneath her breasts between her corset and her blouse. Her heart thundered like a cannonball as she looked for a way to exit the room that wouldn’t require going near the body on the floor, but unfortunately, there wasn’t one. The sound of the blast would likely bring someone upstairs to check on the man, and she couldn’t be caught alone with him. Balancing on her toes to miss the blood spreading across the boards, she stepped over the first booted leg, her skirt spanning Bill Sidlow’s bloated thighs. She lifted her hem to avoid dragging her petticoat across the man’s torso, now damp and crimson, and set her left foot down with care between his side and his spread-eagle arm. Don’t look, don’t look. But morbid curiosity got the better of her. She had to be absolutely certain the bastard was dead, so she glanced down at Sidlow’s face. His sightless eyes stared back at her, familiar enough to make a frisson of terror run down her spine again after he’d cornered her against his apartment wall with demands of sex. “Shoulda known better,” she scolded beneath her breath. But whether she’d directed her words at the sheriff or herself, she wasn’t sure. He gave no response, his flaccid mouth and sagging jowls glistened with spittle—no different than in life, she supposed. When he’d visited the club earlier that night, he’d pulled her aside to invite her here to his place for a private word, and even then his breath against her ear had been wet and disgusting. She’d assumed he wanted to talk about business away from the girls and their customers, because if he’d wanted to make any advances of a sexual nature, where better than the Willows, the popular social club she owned on the Row? But she’d been wrong. The sheriff had wanted more than to talk. He’d wanted to take, and that was something Cora wouldn’t allow. Now, one mistake and a bullet later, she had to get out of his apartment fast before anyone found her here. Tearing her stare away from the sheriff ’s corpse, she set her body in motion for the door, but the sudden tread of boots on the stairs outside stopped her in her tracks. “Sheriff? Was that your gun I heard?” Mrs. Murphy, wife of the boarding house owner, called from a short distance below. Cora’s pulse raced. She scanned the room again. There was a window, but she didn’t recall seeing a way down. She was certain no one else had seen her enter the building. She couldn’t let Mrs. Murphy find her now, for who would believe a bordello madam who’d shot the sheriff with her pearl-handled pistol in his own bedroom? No way would she allow anyone to hang her for the likes of Bill Sidlow. She’d never shot anyone else in her life and hadn’t even taken her gun out of its case before tonight. The only reason she’d brought the weapon was in case she was accosted by one of the drunks in the streets outside. Besides, her girls needed her. Especially now that there would be no one to keep the town’s worst ruffians from their doorstep, and God knew, Fort McNamara had its share of those. She swept another glance around the room for something she could cloak herself in. The bed was stripped to the sheet, but a long blue velvet drapery hung above the lone window. It would have to do. A knock sounded at the door. “Sheriff? You all right?” Mrs. Murphy asked again. Cora vaulted over the body and yanked the heavy fabric from the rod. Returning to the door, she swirled the drape around her head and shoulders until she’d fully cocooned herself, then she waited for a chance to escape. The door metal rattled. When Mrs. Murphy peeked in, Cora threw her weight against the wood panel, knocking the woman outside off balance, and then barreled past. She descended the stairs, running as fast as she could in the tight wind of her drapery cloak. As she reached the front door of the boarding house, she heard the woman’s shriek of horror at discovering her boarder’s remains. “Murder! Help, the sheriff ’s been murdered!” Bursting outside into the darkened street, she kept to the shadows, holding the fabric closed at her neck as she dodged drunken cowboys looking for good times. She averted her face, praying no one would recognize her until she made it back to the bordello. One thing she knew for certain, after this night, she had better get used to carrying her pistol.
Sandra Jones is a multi-published author of historical romances. A former bookseller and librarian, she's always had her nose in a book.
When not researching or writing her next novel, she enjoys being with family, reading, cooking for her husband, and watching British TV. At home in the South, her house overlooks a river and a farm, where most days you can find her working to the sounds of wildlife and cattle. Sandra loves to hear from her readers. Visit her website at www.SandraJonesRomance.com Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
He wanted justice. For his family. For her.
Elite tracker Kino Cosen is hunting for the drug lord who murdered his father. After a decade of searching, he's finally got the Viper in his sight—until a woman gets in the way. Now Kino has a new lead. Aid worker Lea Atlaha has seen the Viper face-to-face…and lived. But now Lea's a target. And while Kino thinks he's protecting her because she can help him get justice for his father, he soon realises that she's not just another witness. As the Viper moves in for the kill, Kino has to choose between his need for vengeance, the traditions of his tribe and the woman he has grown to love.
A captivating story about the Apache trackers called Shadow Wolves, working on the US border. The drug smuggling, illegal aliens, watering stations all brought interesting, anew point of views and insights to the currently very popular themes.
The history and customs of the Apache Indians was fascinating, all from justice, family, and marriage the information was engrossing, and give more insights and respect of the nation often overlooked. The story has alluring characters, and everyone was a suspect, you really couldn't trust no one. The connection between the brothers is unique, the care, love, and respect honorable Kino and Lea have a fragile connection, the differences they have between their ideology is setting them apart. The surprisingly similar faith with their parents has made the make a path opposite of each other. Slowly the trust builds between them, carefully the feelings grow between them, and the attraction they have had for each other since the first moment they saw each other, soon fully blooms, and can't be denied anymore. The constant danger, the threat to Lea's life, and Kino's hunt for his father's killer, the Apache culture, and the budding romance all gives the story intensity, energy, and depth. The charming brothers, with their amazing ability for tracking, allure the reader's mind, and this will be an interesting, powerful series to be followed ~ Four Spoons
His Christmas Wish
Ever since he accidentally outed Santa as a fraud, guest news anchor Duke Rodriguez is getting his first taste of bad press. Worse yet, the former baseball star is striking out with sexy decorator Macy Cuomo. To prove he's no grinch, he offers to work for free during her busiest weekend. A vibrant, down-to-earth single mom, Macy makes Duke want to leave the limelight behind and focus on making all of her sensual fantasies come true. Despite his festive faux pas, Macy has to admit there's a good reason Duke is every hot-blooded woman's secret crush—hers included. Behind the famously gorgeous physique is a smart, charismatic man who lights her up like a Christmas tree with just one sizzling kiss. Opposites definitely attract, but when celebrity drama comes calling, will their budding love survive the holiday season?
A different angle to look and celebrate the festivities of the season.
Duke comes of the Dominican Republic, a former baseball star, now reporting the news, and surrounded by beautiful women, gets struck by the lighting when he meets Macy, the single mother, who's made a name for herself as the holiday law decorator. I liked how much history the author gives the readers about the characters, as well as about the traditions and habits of the cultures they come from. It all was well inserted into the story, and so made it interesting. The was Macy's teenage daughter communicates on twitter was amusing, the use of social media very much today. Duke and Macy were both attractive, charming characters, easy to like, and entertaining to read about. The lust between them obvious, and the first meeting hilarious because of it. I just never caught up on the chemistry between them, everything seemed very much temporary, more like a game or a challenge, I just didn't feel anything deeper between them. Also, how Duke let his ex run all over the place, without making a stand, made me raise my eyebrows. I get why he did it, but still, get a control of your life, man. Act like the Duke! When I hear the name Duke the first thought I will have is John Wayne, the most alpha male in history, and that's a lot to live up to. Overall the story was entertaining, the small town people's reaction to the baseball star amusing, and lots of seasonal parties with high drama to indulge ~ Three Spoons
It is said that the past always returns to haunt you. Yet some forgotten pasts have whispered names and a debt for collection. Dangerous curiosities stir a hidden darkness, one that patiently waits to seize control.
Within the layers of a divine game the boundaries of reality change. Ancient creatures once again resurface from their slumber, and beings which should dwell only within Darrienia threaten to pierce the veil to the waking world. Darkness has a way of masking that which would otherwise be seen, and the God Night, orchestrator of this peril, is a master of such distortion. Nothing is ever as it seems, especially when every action is gently influenced to unlock an unimaginable terror as he guides those chosen to his true ambition. Their actions rousing something far older, and more dangerous, than the threat they first perceived. Its awakening would herald the end and beginning of all. Will they discover the truth in time? Or will those who should be heroes, become nothing more than the pawns of evil? Excerpt:
Eiji’s form broke the water’s surface, from beneath him sprung the gasping figure of Daniel.
“Go!” he screamed in Acha’s direction as he began desperately to swim towards the plains, dragging Daniel behind him. The waters swelled and bulged, the surface debris began to rise in pursuit as something emerged from the deadly waters. The entangled debris pulsed and lurched, as from beneath it emerged the fleshless skull of a creature so foul it could still the breath. Its hooked nose almost a sight to hone in on its targeted prey. The water-weathered muscle, intermingled with bone, was covered in the bog’s scum and moss as the beast within wore the coating of its nest like a skin. Its long fingers and refined claws spanning easily the length of its forearm, visible only as its long limbs broke through the water. The balding chunks of white hair which splayed from the creature’s skull moved quickly with its rapid movements as it traversed the thick water with ease, unhindered by the masses of moving detritus attached to its back. It was unclear if this tangled mass was a living extension of the hag-like creature, or something animated by her touch. Acha’s panicked steps seemed to sink deeper, her pace restricted by the surrounding water as she fought desperately to follow the footholds, concerns of drowning no longer at the forefront of her mind, pushed aside by the horror they now faced. Eiji gasped for breath, his gaze fixed firmly on the pursuing monstrosity, glancing only towards the land to ensure he remained on course. More movement swelled from beneath the surface as Eiji called upon the tangled bramble below to ensnare it, slowing its pace, if just for a moment. The water behind him began to part, he turned, swinging Daniel to rest upon his back as he found his footing on the sodden terrain, water crashed behind him as he focused all his energy, all his skills, on manipulating the creature’s natural environment to aid his escape. The ground becoming firmer, heated, beneath his steps. The creature, accepting their imminent escape, turned its focus to the one remaining still within its domain. Eiji, reaching the land, dropped Daniel to the ground as the creature sped across the waters towards the former board-walk. Acha’s steps froze as the blur of rapid movement sped towards her, she released a scream. A wave of water rose up slamming the creature to one side. “Move!” Eiji yelled forcing another crashing wave before the creature’s path. It howled as the jagged splints of wood pierced its unyielding form. More bramble rose tying to restrain it as wave upon wave of water disrupted its path. Roots broke through the surface, weaving a solid path beneath Acha’s feet as she sprinted, clawing her way to the safety of the solid plain. She collapsed on the grassy fields as Eiji sunk to his knees gasping for breath, his vision once more focused over the bog. The now still water reflecting just the smallest glint of light as the soothing spread of coloured heather painted the landscape. The scene was so still, so tranquil they could have been simply observing a freshly painted canvas, still stood upon the artist’s easel. “Daniel, are you all right?” Acha now crouched over him examining his injuries, it was as she had feared, they were serious. The events of just moments ago seemed surreal against the calmness of their surroundings. Daniel gasped in pain as he lay on his back, paralysed, as the growing patch of blood quickly began to stain his torn linen shirt. “The town of Kerõs isn’t far. I was t’meet Elly near there, keep an eye on him, I’ll get help.” The urgency in Eiji’s voice was unmistakable as he looked at the three enormous, gaping slash marks across Daniel’s chest. The wounds seemed to pulsate as they bled heavily, if they didn’t stop the bleeding soon it would be fatal. The double edged blade of shock was their only ally, if not for it slowing his blood flow things would already be far worse. “Keep pressure on it.” he called as he began his sprint. He hesitated for a moment removing his dagger from his boot and throwing it in Acha’s direction, it was not wise to leave them unarmed. She grabbed it quickly tucking it into her belt carefully. “Please hurry.” Acha whispered, pressing the cleaner parts of her cloak against Daniel’s wounds.
K.J. Simmill is a British author with books released in both the fantasy and non-fiction genres. It is her intention to ensure each book she writes will donate a percentage of her royalties to a good cause.
She is a qualified Usui Reiki master, with certifications in various fields of holistic therapy. inclusive of aromatherapy, crystal healing, colour therapy, ethereal Reiki, Indian head massage, Shaman power Reiki, sound therapy, and massage therapy. She has also spent many years researching various practices of magic and herbal medicine.. When she is not writing, she is an avid reader and a passionate gamer. Website I Twitter I Facebook I LinkedIn
Falling for Her Enemy
Still Harbor #2 By: Victoria James Releasing November 9, 2015 Entangled Bliss She’s falling for the one man who could destroy everything… Alex McAllister always dreamed of a life filled with the laughter and love of a family, but being abandoned at a young age left her wary of letting anyone in. Now that she’s settled in Still Harbor, Alex struggles between keeping her distance and the magnetic pull of the handsome stranger who claims he’s the biological father of her adopted daughter. Hayden Brooks never wanted to be a father. Long hours spent building his family’s real estate empire suits him just fine. But when he discovers an ex put the baby he unknowingly fathered up for adoption, his world crumbles. He tracks the child to Still Harbor with the intention of bringing her home—and comes face to face with his daughter’s stunning adoptive mother. The paternity test is in. And Hayden’s about to make the most shocking decision of his life, just in time for Christmas…
A sweet, heartwarming story about family of heart, magical Christmas time, and finding the forever kind of love.
The story has some difficult issues handled in a beautiful matter. Alex was neglected child, whose mother walked out on her. She had adopted Casey, loved and cared for her, giving Casey the tools to be the beautiful, smart, trusting, loving girl that she is. She was on her five year plan to save money for the bakery she wanted to own one day. All was well in her world. Until Hayden walked into their lives. Hayden lost his loving mother at young age, and grew up with his dad, on the CEO's office or on the construction side. One day he was told that he had fathered a little girl several years ago, the result of a one night stand during a difficult week in his life. The emotions run high in the story, and that is to be expected, after all, a little girl's life is on the stand here. With the insecurities Alex has, coming from her childhood, it is understandable that she doesn't feel hospitable towards Hayden. But there are so many moments in the story that brought a huge smile on my face. There's a conversation about an ugly Christmas tree, that was just a delight, the career goals Casey has had me laughing out loud. The relationship Casey and Hayden form is so tender and dear, they have such a special connection. The connection between Alex and Hayden is special as well, I loved how uncomfortable Hayden was with all the 'feelings'. But he was falling, and he was falling hard. The passion between them hot, even though there are no explicit scenes in the story. Strong, charming and loving characters, families formed by love instead of blood, romance that makes you sigh, snow storms and Christmas cookies, all makes to one enjoyable, touching, and entertaining tale ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Victoria James is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance.
Victoria always knew she wanted to be a writer and in grade five, she penned her first story, bound it (with staples and a cardboard cover) and did all the illustrations herself. Luckily, this book will never see the light of day again. In high school she fell in love with historical romance and then contemporary romance. After graduating University with an English Literature degree, Victoria pursued a degree in Interior Design and then opened her own business. After her first child, Victoria knew it was time to fulfill her dream of writing romantic fiction. Victoria is a hopeless romantic who is living her dream, penning happily-ever-after's for her characters in between managing kids and the family business. Writing on a laptop in the middle of the country in a rambling old Victorian house would be ideal, but she's quite content living in suburbia with her husband, their two young children, and very bad cat. Sign up for Victoria's Newsletter to stay up to date on upcoming releases and exclusive giveaways, follow her blog for daily antics and insight into her daily life, and get to know her on twitter and Facebook. She loves hearing from readers! Author Links: Website|Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
NOVEMBER 19TH - Books & Spoons Review for
KISSING HER CRUSH by Ophelia London
Lights. Camera.
And a whole lotta action… Globe-trotting fashion photographer Ivy Nelson is home to help her family out of a jam. When she donates her services to a charity calendar, the last thing she expects is hunky firefighter—and object of all her hottest fantasies—Cade Hardesty to walk through the door. Cade is ready to get naked for a good cause, and the heat Ivy feels is anything but professional. When a sexy dare turns into a scorching kiss, they can't help but give in to their desires. But Cade wants Ivy in his bed for more than one night. Can the hometown firefighter convince the photographer that her wanderlust should lead her into his arms for good, or will one of them run before they both get burned?
There's a lot of light hearted banter, smoking hot firefighters, and meddling family members in the fun tale.
I liked the story, the way it was written, and the characters were charming, likable, and easy to relate to. Ivy had had her weight issues before, and went through a lot in the small town with mobbing and bullying. Cade had his issues with his parents and dyslexia. There wasn't much originality in the plot - the firefighter calendar shoot for charity, best friend's twin sister, crush since childhood, staying in her house because of an accident, fake relationship turning into more, lot of the elements are well used in the romance novels, but the voice and tune of the tale are fresh, entertaining. There are some majorly swoon worthy moments with the romance, and the sexy scenes are smoking hot, well written, and more about the feelings than step by step action. I loved that. If you like sexy firefighters, romance that makes you sigh, and laugh while reading, you will enjoy this story every moment ~ Four Spoons
Tangled Pursuit
Delos #2 By: Lindsay McKenna Releasing: November 11th, 2015 Blue Turtle Publishing
Navy SEAL Chief Wyatt Lockwood is fascinated by Marine sniper Captain Talia Culver.
But she wants nothing to do with him after learning of his reputation as a heartbreaker. The cocky Texan refuses to take the hint and keeps placing himself in Tal’s path. When she agrees to help him tend to needy families in an Afghan village, she learns there’s more to this SEAL than meets the eye. But is she strong enough to risk having her heart broken again? Wyatt can’t stay away from the beautiful, surly Marine. Tal is fascinating—and frustrating—and he is determined to crack through her tough exterior and get to know the soft woman he knows lurks beneath the surface. When he joins Tal on a sniper mission in the Afghan mountains, their bond continues to grow. But the mission takes a dangerous turn. Has he lost his chance with Tal forever? Exclusive Excerpt:
“Then a deluge of rain struck full force behind the hail. It was coming so fast and hard that Wyatt couldn’t see a foot outside the hide. He heard gurgling and looked to see water pouring in from upslope.
“Let’s get out of here,” Tal ordered him, yelling above the din. “Time to move!” He grabbed the M4 and fastened it over his chest harness. “Roger that,” he growled, shifting to his hands and knees. He saw Tal slide up and out of the rear of the hide, heading up to that ridge a hundred feet above them. And then Wyatt heard a horrendous cracking sound that vibrated through the air around them, throwing him onto his back, slamming him into the side of the hide. He heard Tal cry out. The whole earth shook around him as he scrambled to get to his knees and hands. Water poured into the hide like a tsunami, drenching him as he struggled to get up. There were more cracking sounds, like wood being snapped in two by an unseen giant directly above the hide in the pounding rain. Sonofabitch! He grunted and threw himself toward the rear of the now water-filled hide. “Wyatt!” Tal cried, flattening onto her stomach at the edge of the hide, throwing her hand out toward him. The water swirled angrily around him, jerking his boots from beneath him as it rose swiftly up to his neck. Wyatt cursed, lunging for her outstretched hand. He saw the terror in Tal’s eyes, her mouth contorted in a soundless cry as she stretched toward him. If he didn’t reach her hand, he was going to drown! Wyatt grabbed on to Tal’s hand, surprised at her strength as she hauled back, dragging him toward her. Water rushed over his face, and he held his breath, closed his eyes, and pushed with the toes of his boots into the rocks under his feet. His head popped up out of the rushing, angry water now swirling within the hide before it raced down the side of the mountain. Spitting out muddy water, his eyesight blurred by it, he felt Tal hauling him out of there. God, she was strong!
Lindsay McKenna lives her life as a risk taker, and it shines through the books she loves to write: romance, adventure and suspense. She started writing at age thirteen and continues to hone her writing skills to this day. She sold her first romance novel in 1981. The rest is history.
Because she went into the military, this experience became the backbone of her writing—she is credited with writing the first military romance novel (Captive of Fate, 1983, Silhouette Special Edition) and has created a thriving sub-genre within the romance field! As a New York Times Best Selling author, she has sold 23 million books and in 32 foreign languages in her career thus far. Her many experiences in the U.S. Navy are backdrop for her understanding of the military in general, and also her very successful Morgan’s Mercenaries, which is an ongoing series in Silhouette to this day! Forty-five books strong! Lindsay has gone Indie in 2015 and has created a new family saga on par with Morgan’s Mercenaries It is known as the DELOS SERIES. There will be paperback and eBooks created under Blue Turtle Publishing, her company for her fans. Readers who love Morgan and his family are bound to fall in love with the Culver family. Delos is romantic suspense, which Lindsay is well known for. It took her five years to create and bring DELOS to her readers. It was worth the wait, but we’ll let you decide that. Lindsay loves to hear from her readers and loves to know what they’d like to see her write next. Stay up with the latest on the Delos Series here. Please visit her Web site at www.lindsaymckenna.com. And be sure to sign up for her free quarterly newsletter. It contains exclusive content found nowhere else on the Net. Plus, giveaways and other surprises, to her loyal and faithful subscribers! Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Compatible? Check. Chemistry? Check. Love? Check…mate!
When Carter Bravo decides it's time to settle down this Christmas, the once-burned, no-strings-attached hunk chooses the one woman who isn't looking to be swept off her feet. Not only does his business partner and best buddy, Paige Kettleman, say yes—the chemistry sizzling between them is further proof that she's his ideal mate. Carter's no-nonsense proposition isn't exactly the romantic proposal Paige dreamed about under the mistletoe. After five years of building a business and sharing confidences, her dearest friend still has no idea how she really feels about him. If he did, he'd go running for the Colorado hills. Unless Paige can show Carter how to turn a test-run engagement into the real thing: a holiday wedding with all the trimmings—including love!
Oh, I loved this story! There's so much emotion in it, happiness, joy, passion, even hurt and pain. But love wins.
The relationship between Carter and Paige has been so well balanced, or so it seems. They are best friends, business partners, and they raised together Paige's younger sister after their parents died. But the whole town knows something these two are not aware of - they are not only perfect for each other, they are in love with each other. The banter and charm these two have in between themselves put a smile on my face. And when they stumble into this awkward arrangement of an engagement, it is fun and entertaining to watch them try to figure it all out, admit the feelings they have for each other, stop the games they have been playing, and bring all the hidden feelings out and open to each other. Hot and steamy, yet sweet and loving, Carter and Paige find new aspects in each other, falls even harder for each other, and finds out, they just can't function without the other in their lives. There's difficult family situations, all knowing younger siblings, best friends completely enamored with each other. The story is filled with high emotions and passion, Christmas magic, and adorable dogs. I loved it! ~ Five Spoons
New York Times bestselling author Brenda Jackson’s last Westmoreland bachelor is a navy SEAL on a mission to protect the woman who got away…
After five years, navy SEAL Brisbane Westmoreland is back home on his ranch and ready to reclaim the woman he left behind. But when he tracks her to Dallas, he’s in for a shock. Crystal Newsome isn’t ready to forgive Bane for saying he loved her then vanishing from her life. Only now the beautiful chemist needs his protection. As their own irresistible chemistry takes over once again, can Bane keep Crystal safe and convince her they can have the second chance they both deserve?
Bane and Crystal fell in love at the rebellious young adult years, and were obsessed with each other's company, to the point that their families felt the need to separate them. But on Crystal's 18th birthday, Bane and Crystal got secretly married, promising they would hold on to their love and commitment, until they could be together again.
Five years later, with no communication between them than one phone call early on, Bane is ready to build a life together with Crystal. His SEAL career is going well, and he feels like he has something to offer to Crystal, a focused, mature man, with future goals. Crystal had lost hope that Bane would ever come to find her, as the years went by. In Bane's absence, Crystal sets her focus on school, and is ready to get her PhD in just a few short months. Even though there seems to be some trouble, and odd interest, in the research she is conducting for her PhD, that has scared Crystal. She is ready to go hiding from the trouble, when out of the blue, after five years, Bane shows up at her doorsteps, ready to be her husband. I liked that Bane and Crystal didn't immediately fall into each other's arms, at least permanently. Five years without communication is a long time, and especially with age and situation they had been, people change. They got to know each other again, filled the gap in between the years of separation, and worked on the hurt and pain the separation had cost them. The threat Crystal's research has cost, comes to knocking as well, and soon they are fleeing across the States, escaping the menace, with the help of Bane's connections. The fear and danger intensify their feelings, and brings them closer together, opening up a highway directly to each other's hearts. A great and entertaining mix a bittersweet, steamy, second chance romance, danger and action, and family's support. Lots of romance and passionate moments as Bane and Crystal get acquainted again, while on the run. ~ Four Spoons
A New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling and award-winning author of more than seventy-five romance titles, Brenda is a recent retiree who divides her time between family, writing and traveling with her husband.
Website I Facebook I Twitter Books & Spoons with Tasty Book Tours Cover Reveal: SECOND FIRST CHANCES by Elliot Saint James10/11/2015
Second First Chances
By: Elliott Saint James Releasing January 8, 2016 Self-Published Cover Designer: Najla Qamber Designs
A heart warming story about love, loss and second first chances.
Moving to New York City might have been the biggest mistake Emerson Richards ever made, but she's determined to show everyone - namely, her parents - that it's the best one too. Emmy isn't giving up, and if that means she has to bus tables to make ends meet, or deal with rude New Yorkers, then so be it. Then Emmy lands an office job at one of New York's top engineering firms. Everything seems to be going according to plan - until she's forced to work with Ryan West, an architectural genius. And the man she's been literally running into all over the city. Gorgeous, quiet and arrogant are three words Emmy could use to sum up the mysterious Mr West. Yet as their strange relationship begins to turn into something more than she can handle, Emmy is forced to take a hard look at her life and figure out who she is.
Elliot Saint James is a twenty something Australian moonlighting as a university student. She has a penchant for Nora Ephron films and sexy romances. When she's not writing, she's usually reading or abusing her Netflix privileges.
Her debut novel, Second First Chances, will be publishing in January 2016. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Shattered
LOST #3 By: Cynthia Eden Releasing October 27, 2015 Avon
In New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden's latest novel featuring the Last Option Search Team (LOST), one agent is forced to face her past as she uncovers secrets about the man who may be the key to her future.
Criminal psychologist Dr. Sarah Jacobs is all too familiar with the kind of bad boys who belong behind bars. But the dark, dangerous man she meets in the New Orleans underworld is a new kind of ruthless, and all too irresistible. Jax Fontaine doesn't claim to be a good guy, but he's loyal to his own code and brutally honest about what he wants. He and Sarah may be worlds apart, but when they're skin to skin, nothing matters but the heat between them. And when a deranged killer targets Sarah, Jax will do whatever it takes to keep her safe. Excerpt
“No judgment,” he murmured. “There’s no anger in your eyes, no rage or disgust at me for being a cold bastard. No pity for the kid I was who got beaten in a dirty alley and left to die.”
“Don’t be too sure you understand what I feel.” “Why not? I actually think I understand you very, very well.” Sarah backed up a step. A faint smile curved his lips. “It was there from the first time I saw you. That instant connection. Doesn’t happen often. Actually, it’s never happened to me before. I looked up, saw you, and thought—” Sarah pretty much ran for the door. But he caught her. His hands wrapped around her and Jax pulled her back against his body. His hold wasn’t hard or rough. Oddly, it was infinitely tender. “Do you know what I saw when I looked in your eyes?” he whispered into her ear. Sarah shook her head. “You were hurting. Trying to hide your pain, but I could still see it. I looked at you and thought—I never want her to hurt again.” Tears stung her eyes. “You don’t know me. Or what I’ve done.” Jax thought his past was bad? It was nothing compared to hers. She still had nightmares that had her waking in the night, choking for breath, and begging for help. Help that hadn’t come. Not in time. “Tell me why you came to see me tonight, Sarah.” She sucked in a quick breath and decided to go with the truth. “Because I didn’t want to lie in bed and be afraid. Because I didn’t want to think about the past or the future.” Because she’d felt that insane connection between them, too. The first time she’d seen him, she’d looked into his eyes and thought— He can handle all my darkness. He won’t ever be afraid of what I tell him. Because his gaze had told her that he’d already looked into hell … and hadn’t given a damn about the demons there. He turned her in his arms. She made herself look up and into his eyes. He was so warm and strong against her. And he made her … want. Yearn for things that she’d denied herself for so very long. Because she hadn’t wanted anyone to get close. She hadn’t trusted anyone with all her secrets. She didn’t trust him, either. She’d be a fool to do that. But—she did want him. And every instinct Sarah possessed screamed at her that Jax Fontaine could give her the sensual oblivion she craved. A few hours to forget. A few hours to just pretend that I’m not the freak in the room. The monster that everyone else fears. “What do you want from me?” Jax asked her. Just a night. She’d be leaving New Orleans soon, flying out on a plane and heading back to her little house in the suburbs of Atlanta. They wouldn’t see each other again. So no one else would know about what happened tonight. Just her. Just him. Review
Another brilliant story from Cynthia Eden, that will take your mind into a wild, dark, and dangerous ride through New Orleans.
The intensity of the storytelling takes you right into the dark world of crime and infraction, where no one is to be trusted. The feeling of being watched, hunted, is eerie and palpable, it makes your skin crawl while reading. The action is constant and breathtaking, it is violent, bloody, even gory at times, as the LOST, and the police, seems to one step behind the culprit, like he has inside information. The passion between Sarah and Jax is hot, frantic, and fervent, the lust they have for each other is nearly combustible. The connection between them is amazing. As they open up to each other, and slowly built a fragile trust, they find the one person who could finally understand the darkness inside them, the shadows they have always carried within them. The story has so many twists and turns in the plot, it keeps you constantly guessing where it is heading next. The tale is intense like few others, captivating the mind of the reader. I was completely swept away with the story, seeing the streets of New Orleans, sensing the danger, and the deepening feelings between Jax and Sarah. Truly a thrilling, heart-stopping and stunning story, where the deepest, darkest secrets of the mind come to light, and danger is behind every corner. Be prepared for a spine-tingling ride ~ Five Spoons
Award-winning author Cynthia Eden writes dark tales of paranormal romance and romantic suspense.
She is a New York Times, USA Today, Digital Book World, and IndieReader best-seller. Cynthia is also a three-time finalist for the prestigious RITA® award. Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over fifty novels and novellas. Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies including hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |