Serving Trouble
Second Shot #1 By: Sara Jane Stone Releasing March 8, 2016 Avon Impulse
The first sexy contemporary romance in Sara Jane Stone’s brand new Second Shot series!
Five years ago, Josie Fairmore left timber country in search of a bright future. Now she’s back home with a mountain of debt and reeling from a loss that haunts her. Desperate for a job, she turns to the one man she wishes she could avoid. The man who rocked her world one wild night and then walked right out of it. Former Marine Noah Tager is managing his dad’s bar and holding tight to the feeling that his time overseas led to failure. The members of his small town think he’s a war hero, but after everything he’s witnessed, Noah doesn’t want a pat on the back. The only thing he desires is a second chance with his best friend’s little sister. Josie’s determined to hold onto her heart and not repeat her mistakes, but when danger arrives on Noah’s doorstep and takes aim at Josie, they just might discover that sometimes love is worth the risk.
“I drove to the wrong bar.”
Josie Fairmore stared up at the unlit sign towering above the nearly vacant parking lot, her cell phone pressed to her ear. Nothing changed in Forever, Oregon. Everything from the people to the names of the bars remained the same. The triplets, who had to be over a hundred now, still owned The Three Sisters Café downtown. Every car and truck she’d sped past had the high school football team’s flag mounted on the roof or featured on the bumper. And her father was still the chief of police. Nothing changed. That was why she’d left for college and never looked back. Until now. She’d blown past the Forever town line ten minutes ago. She’d driven straight to the place that promised a rescue from her current hell. And she’d parked under the sign, which appeared determined to prove her wrong. “Josephine Fairmore, it is ten-thirty in the morning,” Daphne said, her tone oddly stern for the owner of a strip club situated outside the town limits. “The fact that you’re at a bar might be your first mistake.” Damn. If the owner of The Lost Kitten was her voice of reason, Josie was screwed. “When did they take the “country” out of Big Buck’s Country Bar?” Josie stared at the letters above the entrance to the town’s oldest bar. She twirled the key to her red Mini that looked out of place beside the lone monster truck in the lot. She should probably take the car back to the city. The Mini didn’t belong in the land of four wheelers, pick-ups, and logging trucks. The red car would miss the parking garage. But I can’t afford the parking garage anymore. I can’t even pay my rent. Or my bills . . . “Big Buck gave in three years ago,” Daphne explained, drawing Josie’s attention back to the bar parking lot. “He decided to take Noah’s advice and get rid of the mechanical bull. He wanted to attract the college crowd.” “He got rid of the bull before I went to college.” And before his son left to join the United States Marine Corps. She should know. She’d ridden the bull at his going away party. With Noah. And then she’d ridden Noah. “Well, Buck made a few more changes,” Daphne said. “He added a new sound system and—” “He changed the name. I guess that explains why Noah came home.” She glanced at the dark, quiet bar. The hours posted by the door read Open from noon until the cows come home (or 3am, whichever comes first!). “He served for five years and did two tours in Afghanistan. Stop by The Three Sisters and you’ll get an earful about his heroics,” Daphne said. “But from what I’ve heard, Noah didn’t want to sign up for another five. Not after his grandmother died last year.” “You’ve seen him?” Josie looked down at her cowboy boots. She hadn’t worn them since that night in Noah’s barn. She’d thought they’d help her land the job at the “country” bar. But now she wished she’d worn her converse, maybe a pair of heels. “Yes.” “At The Lost Kitten?” Why, after all this time, after she never responded to his apologetic letter, would she care if Noah spent his free time watching women strip off their clothes? One wild, stupid, naked night cut short by her big brother didn’t offer a reason for jealousy. But the fact that I told him I love him? That might. “No. I bumped into him at the café.” Daphne hesitated. “He didn’t smile. Not once.” “PTSD?” she asked quietly. She couldn’t imagine walking into a war zone and leaving without long, lasting trauma. The things he probably saw . . . “Maybe,” Daphne said. “But he’s not jumpy. He just seems pissed off at the world. Elvira was behind the counter that day. She tried to thank him for serving our country after he ordered a burger. He set a ten on the counter and walked out before his food arrived.” “He left his manners in the middle east.” Josie stared at the door to Big Buck’s. “Might hurt my chances for getting a job.” “I think your lack of waitressing or bartending experience will be the nail in the coffin. But if Noah turns you down, you can work here.” “I’d rather keep my shirt on while I work,” Josie said dryly. And he won’t turn me down. He promised to help me. But that was before he turned into a surly former marine. “You’d make more without it,” Daphne said. “Or you can tell the hospital, the collection agency—whoever’s coming after you—the truth. You’re broke.” “I did. They gave me a payment plan and I need to stick to it.” She headed for the door. “I ignored those bills for months. Besides what kind of mother doesn’t pay her child’s medical bills?” The kind who buried her son twenty-seven days after he was born. Daphne didn’t say the words, but Josie knew she was thinking them. Her best friend was the only person in Forever who knew the truth about why she was desperate for a paycheck. If only Daphne had inherited a restaurant or a bookstore—a place with fully clothed employees. “He has to agree,” Josie added. “I need that money.” “I know.” Daphne sighed. “And I need to get to work. I have a staff of topless waitresses and dancers who depend on me for their paycheck. Good luck, Josie.” “Thanks.” She ended the call and slipped her phone into the bag slung over her shoulder alongside her wallet and resume. She drew a deep breath. But a churning feeling started in her belly, foreboding, threatening. She knew this feeling and she didn’t like it. Something bad always followed. Her boyfriend headed for the door convinced he was too young for a baby . . . Her water broke too early . . . She tried the door. Locked, dammit. Ignoring the warning bells in her head telling her to run to her best friend’s club and offer to serve a topless breakfast, she raised her hand and knocked. “Hang on a sec,” a deep voice called from the other side. She remembered that sound and could hear the echo of his words from five long years ago, before he’d joined the marines and before she’d gone to college hoping for a brighter future—and found more heartache. Call, email, or send a letter. Hell, send a carrier pigeon. I don’t care how you get in touch, or where I am, if you need me, I’ll find a way to help. He’d meant every word. But people changed. They hardened. They took hits and got back up leaving their heart beaten and wrecked on the ground. She glanced down as if the bloody pieces of her broken heart would appear at her feet. Nope. Nothing but cement and her boots. She’d left her heart behind in Portland, dead and buried thank you very much. The door opened. She looked up and . . . Oh my . . .wow . . . She’d gained five pounds—well, more than that, but she’d lost the rest. She’d cried for weeks, tears running down her cheeks while she slept, and flooding her eyes when she woke. And it had aged her. There were lines on her face that made her look a lot older than twenty-three. But Noah . . . He’d gained five pounds of pure muscle. His tight black t-shirt clung to his biceps. Dark green cargo pants hung low on his hips. And his face . . . On the drive, she’d tried to trick herself into believing he was just a friend she’d slept with one wild night. She’d made a fool of herself, losing her heart to him that night. Never again. She’d made a promise to her broken, battered heart and she planned to keep it. She would not fall for Noah this time. But oh the temptation . . . His short blond hair still looked as if he’d just run his hands through it. Stubble, the same color as his hair, covered his jaw. He’d forgotten to shave, or just didn’t give a damn. But his familiar blue eyes left her ready to pass out at his feet from lack of oxygen. He stared at her, wariness radiating from those blue depths. Five years ago, he’d smiled at her and it had touched his eyes. Not now. “Josie?” His brow knitted as if he’d had to search his memory for her name. His grip tightened on the door. Was he debating whether to slam it in her face and pretend his mind had been playing tricks on him? “Hi Noah.” She placed her right boot in the doorway, determined to follow him inside if he tried to shut her out. “You’re back,” he said as if putting together the pieces of a puzzle. But still no hint of the warm, welcoming smile he’d worn with an easy-going grace five years ago. “I guess you didn’t get the carrier pigeon,” she said, forcing a smile. Please let him remember. “But I need your help.” Review:
The story takes off emotionally, with lust, angst, and sorrow painted on every page from the start. High emotions are the trademark of the tale, as Noah and Josie face each other again, after five years.
Those years seemed to have been rough for both of them, they carry so much pain inside of them, just trying to survive. Josie, heartbroken, up to her neck in debt, is looking for a safe haven, a place where she can heal, and pay off her debt. Noah, marine, now at home running his father's bar, taking care of everyone, trying to convince the town he is a jerk. But the hero, the good guy, savior complex behavior is with every single thing he does. The 'I'm not a hero, I'm a jerk' sentence gets a lot of use, as he is proving the opposite every single time. The cast of characters have chemistry, and they fit well together, they all help to mold the story, providing insights to Noah and Josie, and their past. The romance between them sizzling hot, the connection is believable, and the heat is high. This is a spinoff from a previous series, and you might get the feeling, at first, that you walked into a movie in the middle of the flick. But things fast fall into the place, and the story quickly flows off the pages. There's danger, and fear, with the AWOL marine Caroline, her pain is more than I can imagine, and hearing about her experience, and the events in the military were frighteningly real. Deep emotions, friends who always have your back, little bit of danger, a lot of past pain mixed with kittens, barns, beer, and pies ~ Four Spoons
After several years on the other side of the publishing industry, Sara Jane Stone bid goodbye to her sales career to pursue her dream-writing romance novels. Sara Jane currently resides in Brooklyn, New York with her very supportive real-life hero, two lively young children and a lazy Burmese cat. Join Sara Jane’s newsletter to receive new release information, news about contests, giveaways, and more! Visit www.sarajanestone.com and look for her newsletter entry form.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
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Broken Politics
By: Janae Keyes Releasing March 7, 2016 Kindle Direct
"I didn't quite understand any of this. I wasn't a fan of his. I despised his administration and everything it stood for, but yet I wanted him in the worst way."
Kayla is stuck in a rut writing puff pieces for a magazine that she doesn’t even like and is far from being a political reporter for a publication with actual substance. Until then she writes a political blog that blasts the current administration and their policies. She can feel her big break coming soon when she gets the chance to do a piece on the President. President Matthew Von Hansen is the youngest president to date and the first single president in the last 130 years. He’s found himself in the seat of power, but with no real power. He wants to make a difference, but that can be hard when being forced to stay within party lines. Matthew is everything that Kayla despises about Washington or so she originally thinks. Sparks fly and love is on the horizon, but can these two find their way around broken politics?
The door to the other room opened and Victor walked out with Matthew behind him. Victor didn’t even acknowledge me before he left the residence. I looked at Matthew who stood there looking pleased with himself. I knew what he’d just done and it pissed me off. I then stood.
“Are you going somewhere?” he asked me at once. “Yeah I’m leaving.” I said as I picked up my bag. “Seriously because I just vetoed that bill?” he questioned. “Exactly you are an asshole.” I spat at him. I wasn’t going to hold my emotions back. He then laughed out loud. I walked to him and pointed my finger in his face. “You know that you just crushed so many hopes and dreams.” “I did, but they will thank me in the end when this bill is rewritten, but for now it’s been denied.” He said in an overly confident tone. “God you are just impossible.” I said before I turned around, but he quickly grabbed my arm and spun me to him. His face was right in front of mine. No more than a centimeter kept us apart. I could feel his warm breath on my face and his lips right there. “But the fact that I’m impossible makes you like me more, admit it.” He said in barely a whisper his lips brushing against mine. I didn’t want to say anything. “Not admitting anything.” I hissed feeling his hand let go of my arm, but instantly now on my waist. He slowly pulled my body just closer with his hand firmly on my waist. “I’ve been trying to keep my distance from you. You piss me off, but I can’t help, but like it.” He said. I bit my lip slightly. He smirked at me. I took a shallow breath and before I could finish letting my breath go he crushed his lips to mine.
Janae was born and raised in the California Bay Area.
She grew up a very creative only child and has been writing for as long as she can remember. When Janae isn't chasing around her active toddler she is working on ideas and working to improve her craft. Janae is currently living in a suburb of Brussels, Belgium with her husband and daughter. Author Links: Website | Facebook | GoodReads | Twitter
Love isn't part of the job…
A tough-as-nails cop, Chantel Harris faces whatever life throws at her, and then some. As part of Santa Raquel's High Risk team — created by the town's women's shelter, The Lemonade Stand — she goes undercover to expose one of the community's elite as an abuser. Looking the part is easy, but gaining acceptance into upper society circles is a different matter. That's where gorgeous and successful lawyer Colin Fairbanks comes in. But Colin is so much more than Chantel could have dreamed. Wanting him is dangerous. Falling for him could ruin everything…
This was a more event based story, than emotional one. Even though the issues of the book are serious, from domestic abuse to date rape, and police cover up for criminals and crimes, it wasn't an overly emotional tale.
Chantel has passion for her job, she is giving everything she has, her time, energy, and resources, to catch the criminals. Now going undercover, for the first time, she feels a little out of her depth, but is determined to make it work, and get the job done. She has seen a lot during her life, even a couple people falling in love, but trusting someone so completely, to surrender to your emotions that way, wasn't something Chantel planned to do herself. Ever. Colin, the rich rainmaker lawyer, running his family's legacy, the law firm, and looking after his sister, are all he lives for. The occasional dating, and charity work withstanding, he is all about making deals, and getting new clients. And protect his sister, no matter what. To trust someone, that is asking too much, to fall in love, not for him. So when these two meet, while Chantel is undercover, sparks fly, and a connection is made, that takes them both by surprise. They fumble around each other, not sure what is happening, and soon they can't help but fall for each other. But will they have a future, since everything they are building in between themselves is based on lies and deceit? Looking for evidence for domestic violence, Chantel runs into much bigger case she, and her team, ever imagined. The antics they go into, to catch the perpetrator, with evidence and witnesses, puts lives in danger, and Chantel into a situation she promised herself, she would never be in. The story is engaging, it is curious how Chantel lives on the edge of her true personality, and her undercover image, how she deals with the high society, the glamour and finesse of the pretend world she is in. I like the characters, the supporting cast gave a lot to the plot. There's constant referrals to the past events, several times the same events from the past are told, that have nothing to do with this story. To tell once, to show character development, is perfect, no need to repeat. With unexpected events towards the end, the story takes a surprise ending, making it gratifying and fulfilling ending for all. ~ Four Spoons
Winning the Widow's Heart
Turning her farm into a Pony Express station is the only way for recently widowed Rebecca Young to provide for her seven adopted sons and her young daughter. It also means contending with new station manager Seth Armstrong as he trains her boys to be riders. But Rebecca soon sees he has her children's best interests at heart—and perhaps hers, too… Seth plans on staying long enough to teach the boys how to survive the trail, before continuing on to search for his lost mail-order bride. But now, as he works so closely with Rebecca and her children, he's glimpsing the possibility of a different future. Could changing course bring this cowboy the chance of true love and fatherhood he never expected? Saddles and Spurs: Daring Pony Express riders risk all for duty—and for love
A warm and fun story, about the start of the Pony Express, and a family of heart.
It was easy to admire Rebecca, her heart is pure gold, as she, and her husband, took in as many orphan boys as they could. At age twelve, when the state considered them grown men, Rebecca and John had taken inn the boys, to give them a loving home, and time to grow up to be men. Now John is dead, and her boys are some of the first Pony Express riders, to earn a living, while still living at the ranch. How this unit is truly functioning as a family, was a beautiful thing. The boys can act their age, and have fun and banter with their brothers, but at the same time, are filled with the sense of responsibility and duty, love and respect to their ma, Rebecca. The story tells about the trials and triumphs the family has, as they are setting up the Pony Express station. So many dangers the riders are facing, so many problems that could arise, and the feeling of success, to manage to exceed the expectations. The new manager, Seth, soon starts to feel like part of the unit, the boys respect him, and Rebecca is learning to trust him. Even more serious and deeper feelings come into the picture. Rebecca's home is filled with people, there's a place for anyone needing a shelter, with open arms, they take the old widow in, and even rescue a young slave. A heartfelt tale, with lots of history, everyday family life back in the day filled with love, faith, and a drizzle of danger ~ Four Spoons
When single mom Trisha Cahill fled her deadly ex, she never expected to feel safe again.
Yet Dusty Crawford is the protector she's always yearned for. She can't deny her attraction to the rugged cowboy, but how can she start a new beginning with evil lurking in her past? Dusty has been intrigued by Trisha since she and her infant son arrived in Bitterroot, Oklahoma. When her life is threatened by a stalker, he won't hesitate to act as guardian. Trisha may be running from more than her bloody past, but Dusty will go to extremes to keep the vulnerable beauty safe.
The story wraps up my mind with small town charm, as an adorable, yet nervous cowboy, wants to ask the girl for a date. From there it proceeds to be the sweetest, most loving, darling story of love, overcoming your past demons, a little Duke, and danger mixed into the bundle.
I have enjoyed this series from the start, and it seems to just get better with every story. The characters in the book are lovable, lovely, and real. The dates Dusty and Trisha have are filled with the wonder of falling in love, finding your soulmate, and someone to laugh with. The passion they have for each other is absorbing, but yet they want to wait for the perfect moment, to fulfill their need for each other. They share the past pain and, the horror they have experienced, they support each other, and are there for each other when needed. These two made me smile from ear to ear. And then Cooper, the little John 'the Duke' Wayne wannabe! His three and half year old enthusiasm and joy for life, cowboys, and Dusty stole my heart. There's a couple of moments when he is imitating the Duke, that had me laughing out loud. Cooper and Dusty together were so perfect, like made for each other. The cowboy who has never known the love of a father, pours into this little man everything he ever dreamed of having, while growing up. But the story is not all sweet and lovely, there are dangerous elements, events that put many lives in danger, a deadly obsession, that could put a stop for the future Trisha, Dusty, and Cooper are dreaming about. Alluring tale, that I read in one sitting, just couldn't stop reading until the end. I adore the characters, the magic they had between them, and the danger that loomed around them. ~ Five Spoons
An American in Scotland
MacIain #3 By: Karen Ranney Releasing February 23, 2016 Avon
New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney returns with the third heart-stirring novel in her latest series, a tale of deceit, desperate measures, and delirious desire
Rose MacIain is a beautiful woman with a secret. Desperate and at her wits' end, she crafts a fake identity for herself, one that Duncan MacIain will be unable to resist. But she doesn't realize that posing as the widow of the handsome Scotsman's cousin is more dangerous than she knew. And when a simmering attraction rises up between them, she begins to regret the whole charade. Duncan is determined to resist the tempting Rose, no matter how much he admires her arresting beauty and headstrong spirit. When he agrees to accompany her on her quest, their desire for each other only burns hotter. The journey tests his resolve as their close quarters fuel the fire that crackles between them. When the truth comes to light, these two stubborn people must put away their pride and along the way discover that their dreams of love are all they need.
She had debated finding lodgings before calling on the MacIains. But the carriage driver said he might be able to help her in that regard, so she needn’t worry. The only thing that concerned her was her dwindling resources.
He must agree. He simply must. If it didn’t, she was faced with having expended the funds on the voyage with no results to show for it. Even worse, she would have wasted the time it took to come to Scotland. No, that wasn’t the way to think about the situation. First of all, surely Mr. MacIain would recognize her as a long-lost relative. After all, the three branches of the MacIains had originated from the same family. She knew that because Bruce was forever repeating the MacIain family tree. He was absurdly proud of the fact that he had been descended from Highland warriors. Her own family history was not so illustrious. Her great-grandfather had nearly starved in Ireland and found passage to the New World and a new life. Evidently, being an Irish laborer held no esteem. But her great-grandfather worked hard, put away his money so that his son had a small inheritance when he died, a habit that set his descendants on the road to prosperity. Good fortune, however, had a way of turning on its head. She knew that only too well. She also remembered her great-grandfather’s words, repeated by her father often enough: “Opportunity must be met with effort.” That’s exactly what she was doing in Scotland. She had made the effort, because Mr. MacIain had provided the opportunity. She steadied herself before the door, adjusted the string of her reticule, fiddled with the bow of her bonnet. She fluffed out her skirts and peered down to check if there was dust on her shoes. Perhaps she should have found accommodations first and prepared herself better for this meeting. She should have washed her face, at the very least, put on a little pomade because her lips felt chapped. But she was very much afraid that if she had seen a bed, she would’ve fallen atop it and not awakened for a few days, at least. Before she rested, however, she had to meet with Duncan MacIain. He must agree. He simply must. She dared herself to grab the knocker and let it fall, hearing the echo of the sound inside the house. She had envisioned the man she was about to meet so often, especially after having read his letters to Bruce. He would be a distinguished individual, perhaps the age of her father if he’d lived. He’d be a sober and responsible person who would immediately feel the bonds of family. He would agree to her terms not only because they were fair, but because she represented the American MacIains. She didn’t mind if he was avuncular with her, if he lectured her as to the dangers of her trip here. He would, perhaps, put her in the care of his wife, who would cluck over her like a mother hen, ask all sorts of questions about her journey and issue her own share of warnings. How long had it been since she’d been cosseted? Never by her mother since she’d died at her birth. Her father had done so, but he’d died years before. She shook her head at herself, let the knocker fall again, and arranged her face into an amenable expression. She had quite a bit of experience at that. She could smile through almost anything, and had.
USA Today and New York Times bestselling author, Karen Ranney began writing when she was five. Her first published work was The Maple Leaf, read over the school intercom when she was in the first grade. In addition to wanting to be a violinist (her parents had a special violin crafted for her when she was seven), she wanted to be a lawyer, a teacher, and, most of all, a writer. Though the violin was discarded early, she still admits to a fascination with the law, and she volunteers as a teacher whenever needed. Writing, however, has remained the overwhelming love of her life.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Innocence & Betrayal
Hidden Truths #2 By: Brittney Sahin Releasing March 1, 2016 Self-Published
Reserved biochemist Ava Daniels has spent the last six months working on a top secret assignment for Homeland Security. One morning, after a night of finally letting loose, she discovers her lab empty and her boss missing. Interrogated by the very organization she works for, followed by unknowns, and attacked, Ava finds herself in search of answers as the clock winds down.
Aiden O’Connor, Irish born and raised, attempted to put his past behind him when he opened a bar in the heart of Boston. Until one night, when Ava Daniels shows up asking for help. She is like no other woman he has ever met—breathtakingly beautiful, brilliant, and in terrible danger. Once he learns the true nature of her problem, Aiden realizes she is the key to unlock his past . . . and perhaps to get a second chance. Innocence & Betrayal, Book 2 of the Hidden Truths series, is a stand-alone novel that features appearances from some of your favorite characters in Book 1: Silenced Memories. Hidden Truths is a new romantic suspense series, which features ex-Marines in these stand-alone novels--no cliffhangers. To avoid spoilers though, it is recommended that the books be read in order, as characters make cameo appearances in other novels. Each book in the series is riddled with mystery and romance, as lies and corruption are unraveled to reveal the truth.
“But maybe I need the protection.” Ava swallowed as his eyes glinted at her.
Aiden steadied a hand under her chin, tilting her head up to face him. “I have to be honest. I don’t give a damn about Henry. I don’t know the man. But I don’t like the idea of something happening to you.” “And why is that?” She couldn’t breathe. His mere presence had captured all the oxygen in the room. “Call me crazy, but I’ve got a weakness for a damsel in distress.” There was a hint of a smile in his eyes as his thumb brushed over her lips. “Who are you?” she whispered. He took a step back; his hand dropped. “I own the pub, you know.” “And before that?” He opened his mouth for a brief moment before snapping it closed. “You should get some rest. We’ll brainstorm a plan in the morning.” She looked down at the bed and back at Aiden. “Um.” “No worries, love. I’ve got the couch.” The hideous blue couch beneath the window didn’t look comfortable at all, but she didn’t argue, because she knew she’d never be able to sleep if they shared the same bed. “I wish I had some clothes.” She pressed her hand against the side of her jeans. Her thighs ached from being constricted all day. Her eyes widened as Aiden removed his white T-shirt from over his head. “It’s long enough to cover your arse. And more comfortable than your jeans, I’m sure.” Ava’s gaze was glued to his hard, rippling flesh, no matter how much she knew she should look away. The memory of his body, fighting at the gym, flashed into her mind, and she finally pulled her eyes up to meet his. Without realizing it, her fingers reached to touch the scar on his brow. “Is that from boxing?” His hand caught her wrist and he removed her touch. “Something like that. Now get some shut eye.” “What will you sleep in?” she asked before heading to the bathroom to change. He’d already seen her in her “knickers,” as he would call them, but that didn’t mean she was going to parade around nude. “Boxers, if that’s okay? But I’ll wait ’til the lights are out to drop my pants.” She turned around to find a smirk on his lips and a twinkle in his eyes; no doubt connected to a mischievous thought. “I think it’s only fair that I get to see you undressed, since you’ve seen me basically naked.” Where had that come from? Had her twin sister just leaped inside her head and taken control? “I don’t exactly play fair.” Aiden quirked an eyebrow. A genuine smile on her own lips caught her off guard. And then she shut the bathroom door. Review:
The nightmarish start for the tale, the panic, fear, and utter chaos drew me into the story from the first page.
And from there on the story took off, being filled with conspiracy, black ops personnel, cover-ups gone crazy, failed undercover work, terrorist plots, chemical weapons, murder, kidnaps, and near escapes. Yes, it is filled with action and theories of the possible reasons why everything is coming down at the moment, and how, oddly, everything is connected to each other in one or other way. The turmoil never really comes into order, no one seems to know whom they can trust, who is behind all that is going down, and why is it happening right now. The characters are fun, a little over the top, Michael Maddox seems to rule the world as we know it, there's absolutely nothing Aiden can't do, even sing like a rock star, Ava's twin sister is a famous underwear model, and all the male characters picture her in lingerie, when they first meet Ava. The attraction between Aiden and Ava is palpable, they can't keep their hands off each other, even when it's obvious, Aiden is not truthful about his past, and who he really is. Lots of action, mystery and disarray through the story, mixed with attraction and steamy, lust filled moments, while Ava and Aiden are in hiding to save their lives. Pure conspiracy entertainment ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Brittney Sahin began writing at an early age, with the dream to be a published author before the age of 18. Although academic pursuits (and, later, a teaching career) interrupted her aspirations, she never stopped writing--never stopped imagining.
It wasn't until her students encouraged her to follow her dreams that Brittney said goodbye to Upstate New York in order to start a new adventure in the place she was raised: Charlotte, North Carolina. Here, she decided to take her students' advice and begin to write again. In 2015, she published her first novel, Silenced Memories. When she is not working on upcoming novels, she spends time with her family. She is a proud mother of a spunky toddler and a lover of suspense novels, coffee, and the outdoors. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Didn’t You Promise
Bad for You #2 By: Amber A. Bardan Releasing June 13th, 2016 Carina Press
He always keeps his promises.
Angelina has sacrificed everything to be with the man she loves. Forced to abandon her family, and even her own identity, Angelina depends on Haithem as never before. With no more secrets between them, Haithem has become the source of all her needs. Sexually. Emotionally. But not even Haithem can hide forever. While they're sneaking across borders, avoiding persecution from everyone who would see Haithem dead and his prototype stolen, the media fascination surrounding Angelina's disappearance continues to mount. For Angelina, it's a brutal reminder of what she's left behind and the pain she's caused to those who believe her dead or held against her will. To Haithem, it's a warning: he stands to lose the one person left in his life he loves beyond measure. The hunt won't be called off until his enemies have destroyed him, his life's work and everyone involved—including Angelina. He has only one choice. He's promised to protect her. And Haithem always keeps his promises.
After spending years imagining fictional adventures, Amber Bardan finally found a way to turn daydreaming into a productive habit. She now spends her time in a coffee-fueled adrenaline haze, writing romance with a thriller edge.
She lives with her husband and children in semi-rural Australia, where if she peers outside at the right moment she might just see a kangaroo bounce by. Amber is an award winning writer, Amazon Bestselling Author, and member of Romance Writers of Australia, Melbourne Romance Writers Guild, and Writers Victoria. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
A Promise Can Follow You To the Grave…
Claire Templeton is drawn to the majestic beauty of the California Redwoods in the hopes of capturing an unexplained phenomenon on camera. What she doesn’t expect is to run into her first love, Jed Lafferty, the boy she worshipped as a child, the man she’s never been able to forget. Carefree, fun-loving Jed doesn’t believe in fate, preferring to make his own luck. But when he runs into the little girl who used to follow him like a shadow, now an irresistible woman, he can’t help feeling the odds are turning in his favor. Letting Claire walk out of his life the first time might be his single biggest regret. But when strange gifts and cards left for Claire turn sinister, it’s clear someone else from her past isn’t ready to let go . . .
To run into the biggest crush of your younger days, and to find out, he is single, hotter than ever, and a nice guy, and you both are going to be in the same location for a few days - sounds like fun, right?! But then, you run into your ex, and not only one, but another, and... Things get rather uncomfortable and awkward after a while.
And to make matters even worse, it seems one of the old flames is still holding on a torch for you, and rather odd, stalker way, leaving you messages and gifts that makes the situation not only creepy, but dangerous as well. Even though the story has a disturbing mystery to be solved, mostly the tale has a focus on Jed and Claire, and their life goals, future desires, and possibility make a relationship work between them. The give and take is fascinating, and the topics and concerns they have are very much life like. The sacrifices that one has to make when in a committed relationship, career, fun, and stable living, all things people in their adult years ponder on. As they try to get Claire's job assignment fulfilled, the mystery of the stalker resolved, and are hiking and enjoying the California redwood forests, they talk about life, get to know each other again, and fall for each other. But is it enough, when their future goals are so different? I found the story fascinating on many levels. I enjoyed the characters, their honesty, openness, and candor. The California coast the author painted in my mind was intriguing in its beauty, the small town with its folks humorous and inviting. The romance felt real and down to earth, and the conflicts they faced actual and legitimate. The mystery was tense, fearsome, and chilling. The Bigfoot and the Bigfoot believers gave something to smile about. I definitely recommend this book, and the author's easily flowing way to tell an alluring tale ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Compromised
Alpha Ops #5 By: Emmy Curtis Releasing March 1, 2016 Forever Yours
It was supposed to be the happiest day of her life. But when her wedding erupts in gunfire, Sadie Walker realizes this is not the life she wants-her fiancé's work with Delta Force will always cast a shadow over their relationship.
After leaving the hard-muscled hero at the altar, she thinks she'll never see him again . . . until a chance encounter reveals that he still has a strong grip on her heart. On a covert assignment overseas, Simon Tennant is shocked when he spots Sadie with another man. Jealousy flares, as does an irresistible urge to keep her protected. Amid a dangerous game of international espionage, he'll have to convince Sadie just how perfect they've always been together. This time, nothing will take precedence over winning her back, no matter the cost to his cover-or his life . . .
“We might not be friends, Sadie. But we are something.”
She moved her head so that Simon let go of her chin. “You used to tell me that I was your everything. Your port in a storm. Your sanctuary when you came back from a mission. Did you ever wonder what you were to me? You were the man who always disappeared. The man who was there, but only until your phone rang. I loved you, but you were a ghost to me. Is that the ‘something’ you mean?” “Sadie.” He looked devastated, and she cursed herself for saying those things. As true as they were, she hadn’t wanted to explore their relationship right then. Nor ever if truth be told. “But that’s all just history, isn’t it?” she said, trying to sound flip. He leaned in. She knew he meant to kiss her, and she wanted to move, wanted to slap his face and run. That’s what she should have done. Instead she allowed her mouth to open slightly as her eyes fluttered closed. Just one kiss. A safe, goodbye kiss…and then all rational thought escaped her. His tongue touched hers and her senses and nerve endings came alive. He felt like home. A dark, impenetrable, warm and sexy home. Her heartbeat raced and butterflies heralded the coming of spring in her stomach. He still wanted her. She still wanted him. She didn’t care about anything else. She held his face as she stood and climbed astride his thighs, still kissing him. His hands went to her breasts, running the backs of his hands over the swell above her neckline. And then he found the zipper of the dress, and pulled it down to her waist. He yanked her toward him and put his mouth around her nipples, through her bra. As he sucked and bit she arched her back, aching for him to make her feel more. And more. She grabbed his short hair and rammed her mouth against his. She wanted to hurt him, to be hurt by him, to bruise her mouth, so she’d be sure him being here wasn’t some crazy illusion. But mostly so he’d regret lying to her and leaving her. His dick strained against his cargo pants, and she ground herself against it, moving her hips so that she could feel the whole length of him. “Stop,” he whispered, out of breath. “Not like this. I don’t want to hurt you.” “Now you decide you don’t want to hurt me?” she whispered back. His hand splayed against her throat, dragging his fingers slowly from her chin to her bra. His mouth followed, slow and firm. She wanted to protest, but his tongue snaked a hot trail over her pulse points making her heart race. She’d protest in a minute. “You’ve changed so much,” he murmured against her throat. She was about to respond when he found his way under her skirt to her panties. He slipped under them as if he was trained in stealth. Which, come to think of it, he was. REVIEW:
When a joyfully expected wedding day, turns into a death, bloodbath and destruction, all it leaves behind is pain, sorrow, and resentment.
But the author doesn't dwell on the angst of the separation, but moves on in time for a year, in Athens, and things are very different for Sadie, as they used to be. She did more than cut her hair to get over the breakup. She joined her daddy's firm, the CIA, as an operative. And Simon can't believe his eyes, when she sees her again after a year, in Athens of all the places, and she is talking to a known terrorist. This story was fun, amusing, and sultry action adventure. Athens is the first assignment Sadie is on after graduating from the Farm, and her frantic and anxious determination to do a great job makes her clumsy and hilarious at times. She desperately tries to fit in, and uses bad manners and language to be allied to the scene at the CIA cover up. Meeting Simon again wasn't something she planned, and soon it seems their assignments are allied, but of course this isn't something they can share with each other. So they lie, deceive, accuse each other of betrayal, and uses sex as a power tool, to try and get a handle on the situation, on each other, and on the old feelings that seems to be coming back to the surface. The story moves at a fast pace, the action, suspense is constant, the terrorist, obviously are planning for something, Simon and Sadie's cases collide, and are ready to explode the whole political scene in Athens. Lively, entertaining, and steamy romantic action adventure, filled with brash, cheeky characters, filled with unexpected collisions, and lovers who has to face their life's priorities, and gets a second chance to make the right decisions to make the romance last ~ Four Spoons
Emmy Curtis is an editor and a romance writer. An ex-pat Brit, she quells her homesickness with Cadbury Flakes and Fray Bentos pies. She's lived in London, Paris and New York, and has settled for the time being, in North Carolina. When not writing, Emmy loves to travel with her military husband and take long walks with their Lab. All things considered, her life is chock full of hoot, just a little bit of nanny. And if you get that reference...well, she already considers you kin.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
His Secretary's Surprise Fiancé
Bayou Billionaires #2 By: Joanne Rock Releasing March 1st (Digital), March 8th (Print) Harlequin Desire
Her boss wants her in his office—and as his bride!
Adelaide Thibodeaux grew up with Dempsey Reynaud, and she's worked for him for years. But when the billionaire football coach springs a surprise engagement to keep her from resigning, it's a low blow. Just as she's ready to strike out on her own, she's stuck in a fake relationship with her boss, biding her time… But soon Adelaide faces a second blow: she's actually falling for the man! Can a relationship founded on a lie become the real deal? Or will they fumble before the end zone—and stay in the friend zone?
“You can’t leave now.” He didn’t have time to hash this out. And he would damn well have his way.
“I’m going after the press conference. I told you I would come back for the pre-season, and now it’s done.” Frowning, she twisted the bracelet round and round on her wrist. “I shouldn’t have returned this year at all, especially if this ends up causing hard feelings between us. But I can send your next assistant all my files.” How kind. He clamped his mouth shut against the scathing responses that simmered, close to boiling over. He deserved better from her and she knew it. But if she was going to see him through the press conference, he still had forty minutes to change her mind. Forty minutes to figure out a way to force her hand. A way to make her stay by his side through the season. All he needed was the right play call. “In that case, I appreciate the heads-up,” he said, planting his hands on her waist and shuffling her away from the door. “But I’d better get this press conference started now.” Her eyes widened as he touched her, but she stepped aside, hectic color rising in her cheeks even though they’d always been just friends. He’d protected that friendship because it was special. She was special. He’d never wanted to sacrifice that relationship to something as fickle as attraction even though there’d definitely been moments over the years when he’d been tempted. But logic and reason—and respect for Adelaide—had always won out in the past. Then again, he’d never touched her the way he had today and it was messing with his head. Seeing that awareness on her face now, feeling the answering kick of it in his blood, made him wonder if-- “Of course we need to get to the conference.” She grabbed her earpiece and shoved it into place as she bit her lip. “Let’s go.” He held the door for her, watching as she hurried up the hallway ahead of him, the subtle sway of her hips making his hands itch for a better feel of her. No doubt about it, she was going to be angry with him. In time, she would see he had her best interests at heart. But he had the perfect plan to keep her close and the ideal venue—a captive audience full of media members—to execute it. As much as he regretted hurting a friend, he also knew she would understand at a gut level if she knew him half as well as he thought she did. His game was on the line. And this was for the win.
Three-time RITA nominee Joanne Rock has never met a romance sub-genre she didn't like. The author of over seventy novels enjoys writing contemporary romance and medieval historicals alike, recently exploring Young Adult romance under a pseudonym. An optimist by nature and perpetual seeker of silver linings, Joanne finds romance–in all its forms-- fits her life outlook perfectly. When she's not writing, Joanne enjoys travel, especially to see her favorite sports teams play with her former sports editor husband and three athletic-minded sons.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Bidding on the Billionaire
Seattle Bachelors #1 By: J.M. Stewart Releasing March 1, 2016 Forever Yours
Safety. Anonymity. Invisibility.
Those are just a few advantages of Internet “dating.” Even better, as far as Hannah Miller is concerned, is the fact that she can shed all inhibitions without worrying about what he thinks of her figure or her face. “He” is bikerboy357, the man who knows what Hannah likes, and wants her—every night—as much as she wants him. When he asks to meet, Hannah hesitates. But the temptation is too strong. And after one look into his sultry green eyes, there’s no turning back. Cade MacKenzie’s never met a woman who’s wasn’t blinded by his billion-dollar net worth, but “H” knows neither his face nor his name. Her words are so smart, sweet, and scorchingly sexy that Cade’s willing to gamble she’ll be just as amazing in person. And she is. But even as every delicious encounter makes Cade want Hannah more, what he wants most is her trust. It’s something all his money can’t buy. And now, Cade will do anything to earn it.
Hannah forced a laugh to cover the unease gripping her by the throat.
Apparently, her laugh sounded as phony as it felt for Cade’s smile fell. Gaze somber, he lifted his left hand, stroking his thumb over her chin. “You okay?” She wanted to laugh it off, but she’d lied to him enough. The second time around, she gave him a more honest smile, though it still wobbled a bit. “I’m nervous.” His fingers tightened in hers. “Mmm. Me, too.” The quiet tone of his voice caught her, filling her with questions. “May I ask why? You don’t look it.” Cade pushed the door open fully and pulled her inside the suite. She barely registered the click of the door falling shut before his large, warm hands slid into her hair. A bare breath later, he pressed her back against an adjacent wall. “Because I’ve been dying to do this.” He covered her mouth with his, and any thought of being nervous flew right out the window. The kiss on the street had been sweet, a taste, passion withheld. The kiss of two people trying each other out for the first time. This one was a hot brand. It promised pleasure lay in her future. His tongue traced the seam of her lips, a question and a tease in one hot stroke. When she opened on a soft sigh, he plunged inside, his tongue dueling with hers. Goose bumps chased each other over the surface of her skin. If his kiss alone weren’t enough to overwhelm her senses, his hands moved, stroking over her. Down her sides, over her hips to her butt, only to stroke back up her stomach and skimming the underside of her breasts. His body surrounded her, blocking out everything but him, and Hannah let herself get lost. She sought him out, as well, feeling over his firm pecs to his flat abdomen. She yearned to discover the hard muscle and warm skin beneath the fabric of his shirt. Yearned to discover all those luscious places that would drive him mad, make him gasp and groan. She wanted to remember every tiny detail for when he eventually went back to San Diego and she lay alone in the dark, craving exactly this. “I’ve been dying to get my hands on you.” He murmured against her skin as his lips skimmed across her jaw and down her neck. “Do you know how torturous it is to be so turned on by someone you can’t even see? You have a way with words, Miss Miller.” His use of her name had a shiver running over the surface of her skin. She yearned to hear him call her name in the grip of an orgasm. Her hips pushed forward, seeking contact with his body. When the softness of her belly brushed the hard bulge in his pants, she couldn’t contain a moan. He nipped at her bottom lip, then pulled back and took her hand. “Come on. Before I fuck you against this wall.”
J.M Stewart is a coffee and chocolate addict who lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, two sons and two very spoiled dogs.
She’s a hopeless romantic who believes everybody should have their happily ever after and has been devouring romance novels for as long as she can remember. Writing that has become her obsession. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Confessions in the Dark
By: Jeanette Grey Releasing March 1, 2016 Forever
Whispers in the night lead to sweet surrender . . . but what will the dawn bring?
Anger. Guilt. Sorrow. They've strangled Cole for years-and now they've literally damaged him. With his knee out of commission, Cole knows the road to recovery will be nothing but long and irritating . . . until his beautiful and determined neighbor offers to help him in return for a favor. But soon Cole finds himself offering her so much more. Their unexpected passion lays Cole bare, body and soul. And leaves him wondering how he'll walk away before he ruins her life, too. Gruff, secretive, and coiled with tension that begs for release, Cole is too intriguing for Serena to resist. The English accent and brooding brown eyes don't hurt, either. Their nights are beyond compare-yet the truths Cole confesses in his darkest moments reveal a heart bruised almost beyond repair. But Serena's seen the kindness and support he shows when she needs it most. Armed with a bottomless well of patience and devotion, she'll show Cole just how good it can be to let someone in . . .
One last time, she spoke his name, only for him to hurl the carton at the wall. He whirled around, and the fridge door slammed shut with a clatter, the whole thing rocking, something inside it falling over. With a crash, the eggs hit the ground, but she couldn't see them.
All she could see was this man, and the bands of control with which he was trying so damn hard to keep himself together. And failing. His ragged inhalation was a hairline fracture to her ribs. His fist hit the front of the fridge, and then his foot, and there was another, wetter, angry sound of pain inside his lungs. She was moving before she could think. She stepped around the mess he'd made, right up to him. Those broad, strong shoulders still radiated distance, still told her with everything he had in him to stay away, but the hurt in his bones spoke louder. And that was something she could never ignore. With a hand on his arm, she tugged him around, and he resisted, clumsy with the crutches and as stubborn as the day they'd met. But she managed to get a hand on his face, to touch the stubbled line of his jaw, thumb brushing up against the corner of his mouth. He let out a sound that might have been punched out of him, and her own eyes went blurry as she pulled at him to look at her. His gaze was glass and steel, both ready to break and impossibly hard. A skittering pang throbbed through her chest. "I'm sorry," she said. "I'm so sorry." For his loss and for asking. For everything. Something in his expression cracked. This time, when she tried to draw him in, there was no resistance. One of his crutches tumbled to the ground, an arm going around her waist. He pressed his face into her hair and let out a breath against her ear, damp and shuddering, and she felt it like an ache inside her heart. Closing her eyes, she curled her hand around the back of his neck. There was something so raw about him. Like he'd never said those words before, maybe not even to himself. Like years had passed since he'd been held. So she tucked him closer. Wrapped him up and took his weight. Took his confessions. And tried to give him back all she had in return. Jeanette Grey started out with degrees in physics and painting, which she dutifully applied to stunted careers in teaching, technical support, and advertising. When she isn't writing, Jeanette enjoys making pottery, playing board games, and spending time with her husband and her pet frog. She lives, loves, and writes in upstate New York. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads |