He's going beyond the call of duty
Salt Lake City PD detective Noah Stallion is missing one thing: a soul mate. He doesn't expect to find her at his fifteenth high school reunion. But reconnecting with Catherine Moore—his childhood crush, and now a beautiful and savvy businesswoman—brings back an onslaught of memories. And brings on a weekend of unending passion when they give in to their sizzling attraction. The guy voted Most Likely to Marry a Supermodel awakens a lot more than lust in Catherine, and saying goodbye is the hardest thing she's ever had to do. Then pleasure and business collide when Noah reenters her life. With an obsessive stalker targeting the high-flying CEO just as she's preparing to take her aircraft-leasing company public, Catherine is extremely vulnerable. But Noah can't let the best thing that ever happened to both of them get away—no matter what the risk…
What a refreshing, lively, and entertaining love story.
The connection between Noah and Cat is like a live wire, scorching hot, and at the same time so tender and sweet. They are equal in their partnership and relationship, they protect and take care of each other, the trust and loyalty is there without too much drama and questions. They accept each other the way they are, and there's nothing they wouldn't do for each other. The business Cat is running is successful beyond dreams, and Noah's input, aid, and work in the company is valuable, and appreciated. The dangers and threats towards Cat are soon gone, when Noah comes on board. As well as Noah fits into Cat's world, Cat fits with the big family Noah has, and the reunion in Paris is fun and exciting. This story just put in a good mood, made me smile. The story is well written, the heat level is high through the story, but fits well in the settings ~ Four Spoons
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Awakening naked on the beach, Caleb Hunter knows his name, knows that someone tried to kill him, and yet nothing about his life before, not who he was, or what he was, or how he came to be where he was. And almost most disturbing of all, he has no idea why the desire he feels for Meg seems so new and yet so familiar. As handsome and desirable as the dark stranger is that she finds on the beach near her home, Meg still doesn't understand why she's not only not afraid of him, but drawn to him, trusts him enough to bring him into her home, to give herself to him when it's so contrary to her nature. Loneliness, pure and simple? The need to comfort and draw comfort? Or is it something else? Something dark and infinitely dangerous that draws the two of them together?
The blurb and the beginning of the story intrigued me greatly. I thought the set up was original, the amnesia interesting, and the way Meg and Gale were reading each others thoughts curious. The peculiar connection Galeb and Meg has, familiar, though they were strangers to each other was alluring. But then the story just lost my interest, when I'm finding other things to do after 10 minutes of reading, is not a great sign, but when I realized I didn't care if Matt was alive or not, who Galeb was, and whatever happens to the pervert cop, it was just downhill from there. But I read it through, and the ending - well, it was just too bizarre for me, but I'm sure there are plenty of paranormal fans who will love this story.
The author's writing was beautiful, almost poetic in style. There are plenty of twists and turns in the plot, surprises that no one expects. All I can say is, you have to judge for yourself. From me ~ Two Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
That Thing You Do
Whispering Bay # 1 By: Maria Geraci Releasing April 28th, 2015 TKA Distribution
Allie Grant doesn’t believe in second chances. She does, however, believe in the power of a permanent paycheck. So when a tipster reports that the soon-to-be demolished senior center in her hometown is haunted, Allie hightails it to Whispering Bay to get the scoop that could secure her dream job at Florida! magazine. What she finds, though, is far scarier than any ghost. Cue her ex-boyfriend, sexy construction foreman Tom Donalan.
When Tom catches Allie poking around his construction site, he quickly realizes his former high school flame is just as feisty as ever. And, heaven help him, her irresistible, mile-high legs still take his breath away. But Tom isn’t about to delay the building’s demolition because of a silly ghost story. With neither of the stubborn exes backing down from their opposing positions, sparks fly. And, underneath the surface, the fire of their old attraction burns as hot as ever. When strange things start happening with increasing frequency around town, even a tough skeptic like Tom is tested. The question is, can Allie and Tom stop fighting long enough to get to the bottom of Whispering Bay’s ghost problem—and the more important matter of mending their broken hearts? Review:
This story touched my heart. It is filled with small town atmosphere, family connections, second chances, teenage angst, and love in all forms. And it all started with a ghost story.
Allie is trying to settle down in life, and reach her next life goal, full time job with benefits, after all, thirty is right here. She is sassy, and smart, loyal and kind, long legged beauty, journalist, waitress, and in trouble: she needs this article to get the full time job. Tom is all around a good man. He is successful in his career, he is a great father, kind man with a big heart, and hot as all get out. The connection between Tom and Allie is bittersweet. The history they have is heartbreaking, and now the sexual tension is so tight, you can feel it in the air. They seem like the couple you want to cheer on, to do anything to make it work out. The story is filled with compelling characters. I loved that they were so real, they had problems, nothing was perfect, but their life was like it is, some great things, with some failures, some heartbreak, some happiness, overall satisfying lives of the chances given to you. This tender story made me smile, it made me sigh, and it gave me some tears, and the tale will surely stay with me for a time ~ Five Spoons! Meet the author:
Maria Geraci writes contemporary romance and women’s fiction with a happy ending. The Portland Book Review called her novel, The Boyfriend of the Month Club, “immensely sexy, immensely satisfying and humorous.” Her fourth novel, A Girl Like You, was nominated for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA ® award. She lives in north Florida with her family, which includes a very needy chihuahua, an extremely needy dachshund and a not-so-needy cat (guess which one she likes best?). You can reach at her www.mariageraci.com.
Author Links: Website |Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Chad Anders doesn’t know why mousy Cynthia Henley trips all over her tongue when she’s around him. Nor does he understand his undeniable attraction to this good girl. Wild and sexy is his type, like the dream-girl he caught a glimpse of years earlier he’s never forgotten.
Cynthia’s superpower is invisibility, especially with men. It’s better for everyone that way. Besides, she’s got a cat. She’s okay. But when playboy-rancher Chad hires her, she’s got a chance to shine. Professionally, at least. Until she learns of his fascination with a mysterious dream-girl, who was actually nothing more than a shy teenager on an ill-advised dare all those years ago. Cynthia knows she’s no man’s dream-girl and never will be. But there’s magic at the ball. Princesses glow in the starlight, princes appear out of nowhere, and, sometimes, they look a lot like cowboys…
Inspirational, motivating story.
Yes, Cynthia was the Cinderella of the family, with two sparkling stepsisters, who outshines her in any situation and moment. Chad was used to getting out shined by his famous brother. Together they organize an event for the charity, and as the preparations are on the way, both of their siblings let them down. But Cynthia is determined to pull it together, she needs it, for her company. The fun, flirting and games go on, showing the true and the real connection between Chad and Cynthia. The events in the story can be a bit heartbreaking at times, but what Chad and Cynthia have, can't be overlooked. And not only Cynthia shows all that she can do it, as situations unfold she prevail herself. The story is touching and should be dedicated to all who has been signed out by someone else, cause this story shows, so beautifully, that everyone is different, all have weaknesses, but also strengths, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and that despite whatever life gives you, go after your dreams, cause you can do it! Really, I was expecting a fun, light, quick read, and I got such a meaningful, lovely, and like said, inspiring tale, it took my breath away. ~ Five Spoons
Where There’s A Will…
Sexy attorney Ryder Ford always knows exactly what he wants and how to get it. But Addison Wells, his gorgeous secretary, is one woman he wants but can’t have. Or can he? One scorching, unforgettable kiss under the mistletoe is all that either have allowed. Addison is focused on her studies and becoming a lawyer herself and she plans to leave the dust of Whiskey River behind. Unless… There’s A Way… Addison has mastered ignoring her hotter than sin boss until one stormy day when a threatening tornado forces them to find shelter from the storm. Despite the fact that Addison is weeks from moving to another city, she finds herself breaking her own “no office romance” rule. She’s not meant to settle down—but how can she resist someone as persuasive and tempting as Ryder? She’s determined that he should be her going away present but will Ryder let her go that easily?
A cheerful story, a perfect mix of laughter and romance.
Ryder and Addison's attraction to each other is hot, so hot that other around have noticed it. I loved the way the other lawyers were accepting their feelings for each other. There's a lot of banter in the storm shelter, while Addison and Ryder hide from the tropical storm. But they also share some of their family history, and stories from their childhood. Ryder's protectiveness is adorable. The honesty he demands and shares with Addison is admirable, he doesn't let her hide behind her fears and concerns. Their first date is just swoon worthy! A lovely prologue to the new series, that I will be looking forward to! ~ Four Spoons!
Love is a dirty word and passion has no place in the world of high-profile litigation.
Sparks fly when attorney Kathy Brooks agrees to represent novelist Charles Morgan, Jr. in a high-profile suit against a powerful government defense contractor. But when Charles’ hidden agenda threatens to expose the government’s dirty little secrets, what started out as the case of a lifetime could cost Kathy her heart, her career and even her life. Charles doesn’t just want to win the lawsuit. He wants to destroy the company responsible for his wife’s death. His enemies, however, will stop at nothing to make the case go away – and that includes blackmail, kidnapping, and murder. As the body count rises and the stakes get higher, Charles and Kathy will have to decide just how much they’re willing to sacrifice for the win. To get justice, they’ll have to put it all out on the line - including each other - and it still might not be enough.
Legal thriller, that captured my mind.
Kathy is a lawyer, who knows her stuff, is not afraid to go into the fight, and after the bad guys. Charles is after revenge, and ready to do anything, and make sacrifices to achieve it, even when those sacrifices affect other people's lives. The attraction between them is immediate, and at first I found it a bit awkward, since Charles's wife and unborn child had been recently killed. Also the emotional depth to the characters was a bit lacking, it was not easy to relate to them, or to their relationship. But as the story goes on, the connection comes clear and the characters grow on you. The beginning of the story is filled with legal aspects of the case. At first it felt a little overwhelming with all the legal 'talk', but when I finally got into the story, it flew by, and it was hard to put down. The story is unique in the point, that those we usually see as the heroes, where now the bad guys, with a lot of power and possibilities to destroy both Kathy and Charles. It was an intriguing legal struggle, where all the alphabet agencies were involved, lives were in danger, and love affair can be the worst thing to happen to your career ~ Four Spoons
Eight years ago, university student Ian Stuart fell in love with his sweet, beautiful classmate and he’s never forgotten her. Sofie loved Ian with all her heart in return, but she didn’t trust him with one little detail about her life she’d neglected to share.
She was a princess, and they could never be together in the outside world. Now Crown Princess Sofia is in danger. An insurgent faction in her country has targeted the royal family, and while Sofia is visiting the United States, she is forced to go into hiding. Assigned to protect her is none other than FBI Special Agent Ian Stuart. Once again Ian and Sofie are in an impossible situation, fighting their feelings for one another, while trying to stay safe. Will their love for each other prove to be the most dangerous game of all?
A royal forbidden romance, mixed with action and tension. A modern day fairy tale.
The connection between Ian and Sofie is real and raw, true love. But her family and country stood between them, until they needed Ian's help to keep Sofie safe. Even though the situation is fragile, Sofie's life in danger, the feelings from the past come back, the connection is still there like they have never been apart. The reunion is rather sweet, and tender. Ian's protective strike is strong, he is willing to do anything to keep Sofie safe and happy. I absolutely adored when they get together, and they both state their intentions, by saying 'I choose you', cause that is the true commitment, choosing each other every day. The action in the story is in the background, even though the tension and the danger is constantly present. But that bit of a stress from the possible attack, and not knowing who to trust, gave the story extra spice. Lovely, sweet, entertaining and a quick read for a rainy night ~ Four Spoons
Hair stylist Lindsey Ballard hates answering questions about her family’s country music roots in Nashville. She’s been avoiding music producer, Myles Emery, at all costs, who’s trying to write a book on her famous relative. But he can’t get to her today. It’s her wedding day. Or so she thought…
When Lindsey suddenly needs to call off the ceremony to Atlanta’s popular mayoral candidate, she makes her getaway with the persuasive producer, all the while trying to ignore the chemistry between them that had never existed with her ex. Myles Emery has his own reasons for needing the truth about a country music legend–secrets the Ballard family keeps closely guarded. But when he happens to catch Lindsey running out on her wedding, he knows his luck is about to change. Too bad Myles wants Lindsey on first sight and the attraction is making it complicated to stay on task. “Uncovering her secrets” begins to take on a whole new, delectable meaning…
This was a fun, light hearted story, with family drama, lots of relationships ending, and very much dated to today's world with references and the use of the social media and internet news.
At the beginning of the story, you can actually feel the panic of the breathless bride-not-to-be. The runaway part was heartfelt, and humorous. There's an obvious physical attraction between Lindsey and Myles, they are hot for each other, and the love scenes are burning the pages. But I didn't really feel any other connection between them, and even the ending left lots of things open between them. The drama in Lindey's family was painful, the mother's constant rejection, and the problems between the sisters seemed to be carried a bit too long time. Overall the story was fun read on a sunny day in the park, entertaining and lively ~ Three Spoons
Wedding fever has hit the little town of Marietta...
Piper Tierney is busy wrapping up the school year and planning the music for Marietta’s Wedding Of The Century. She does not need one of her parents’ backpacking hippies under foot. Except the guy they let stay in their house is so much more than the California couch-surfer he resembles. Before she knows it, she’s making time to make time, even though he’s only in town for a couple of weeks. Taking a break from working on his doctorate in political science, Sebastian Bloom wants to reassure himself his sister isn’t making another mistake with her upcoming wedding to a Marietta rancher. He’s definitely not looking for a bride for himself. Marriage and family are a trap. But Piper is cute, funny, and wants to move on from her ex. They agree to a no strings affair, but will they wind up tying the knot?
"Hi, my name is A-R and I'm addicted to Marietta, Montana..." Ever since I started to read the books by Tule Publishing, and found the place called Marietta in Montana, I keep on going back there, like it was my own hometown. The characters are intertwined with and from different series, and you never have to say goodbye to them, since they keep popping up in different stories, in different series.
This story, His Blushing Pride, took my breath away. Piper has a large birthmark on her face, that made her growing up years difficult, because of the teasing and mobbing. It didn't help, that her father was the music teacher at the local high school, and mother was overly protective of her, because of the loss of son by car accident. Now Piper is a grown woman, music teacher herself at the high school, but still virgin, and no prospects of even dates around. Until Sebastian Bloom rides to town, staying at her parents house. He has seen the world, traveled all over, smart, educated, and sinfully handsome, just 'panty-melting' hot. It was suppose to be a fling. A hot fling. And a lot of the story centers around Pipers innocence, her learning all about the sensual world and possibilities. And it is hot, the chemistry is scorching, the connection real. And the heartbreak at the end, when Sebastian leaves the town, was devastating. The pain, when they run into each other again, was palpable. The story has a great lesson, on many different ways, about casual hookups, and how they rarely work. But Piper and Sebastian, after the desolation of their springtime fling, have a dire face off, that had me in tears. This novella has a lot of story packed into it, romance that makes you think, big meddling families, and Marietta, Montana small town feeling... ~ Four Spoons
Lady Sarah’s Sinful Desires
Secrets at Thorncliff Manor # 1 By: Sophie Barnes Releasing April 28, 2015 Avon
Welcome to Thorncliff Manor, where London's elite mix, mingle, and may even find their heart's desire...
There are thousands of things Christopher, Viscount Spencer, would rather do than hunt for a bride, especially since experience has taught him that women are not to be trusted. Then he finds the intriguing Lady Sarah scrambling around in Thorncliff's conservatory and he is instantly charmed by her passionate nature. But why is she so intent on avoiding him? Lady Sarah would make the perfect bride for a peer—if not for a tarnished past that she's hiding from the ton. A stay at Thorncliff Manor was meant to help her plan for her future, not fall in love. Yet Christopher's kisses are irresistible, his gallantry enticing. When her secret stands to be revealed, will the truth ruin their dreams of happiness?
Christopher had no doubt about it. If there was one quality his sister didn’t have in short supply, it was tenacity, which was why he was surprised when she dropped the subject completely to say, “I still can’t believe Mama and Papa convinced Richard to join us.”
Christopher curled his fingers into a fist. “He had little choice in the matter. Oakland will be overrun by workmen the entire summer, and I daresay they’ll be busy if Mama’s plan to redecorate the entire place in the Greek style is to be fulfilled according to schedule.” “Even so, you must admit that it’s surprising,” Laura said. Christopher chose not to comment. Contemplating his younger brother’s service to the Crown made him uncomfortable. As Richard’s older brother, he’d always felt a certain responsibility—a need to protect him—but the war against Napoleon had left Christopher with nothing but a distinct sense of failure. Reaching inside his jacket pocket, he pulled out his own pocket watch to assess the time. It was one minute after two in the afternoon. He waited a minute before brushing his thumb across the watch face three times. “There’s no point in that, you know,” Rachel said. “Good fortune is derived from hard work and common sense, not from silly rituals.” Although her comment was to be expected, it still annoyed Christopher. “I believe in luck, Rachel, and if that means adopting a few oddities, then so be it.” Turning away from her, he determined to savor the gentle sway of the carriage as they tumbled along, thankful that his sister chose not to comment any further. The truth of it was that his superstitious nature embarrassed him, for he knew it defied all logic and reason, yet he couldn’t seem to avoid the feeling that awful things would happen unless he took certain measures to prevent them. He sighed. The hold it had on him had only increased after passing a tree with two ravens in it in 1815. That year, he’d not only been unlucky in love but his brother had also been captured by the French. “Do you think Chloe will ever remarry?” Laura asked suddenly, referring to their widowed sister and consequently drawing Christopher out of his reverie. “Probably not, all things considered,” Rachel muttered. It occurred to Christopher that Rachel might be prettier if she didn’t insist on pulling her hair so tightly back. Her sisters ought to offer their assistance, for they all looked pretty with their soft curls framing their faces, but Christopher knew that to suggest such a thing would only invite argument. Rachel had some very stubborn ideas—none of which were likely to get her married. “It’s a good thing her husband died in that duel, or I would have run him through myself,” Fiona stated. Christopher frowned. He wasn’t sure if he ought to be proud of his sister’s thirst for blood or terrified. Hell, he wished he’d had the opportunity to challenge the late Lord Newbury himself after discovering the man’s numerous affairs. In the end it had been the unhappy husband of Newbury’s latest paramour who’d seen to the man’s demise. “One can only hope that if she does remarry, it will be to a man who de- serves her,” he said. Laura’s eyes lit up. “Perhaps she’ll meet an eligible gentleman at Thorncliff!” She leaned forward, her gaze fixed on her brother. “There might even be a young lady there to—” “You’d better not finish that sentence if you know what’s good for you,” Christopher warned. “There’s no need for you to be so touchy,” Laura told him primly as she straightened and raised her chin a notch. “I only want what’s best for you.” Christopher groaned. His mother and father had told him the exact same thing. Repeatedly. It was the reason he’d avoided sharing a carriage with them to Thorncliff. The last thing he needed was to be trapped with them for six hours while they took turns suggesting potential brides to him. As the eldest son and heir to the Oakland title, he knew he’d eventually marry. He just wanted to wait until he was ready—perhaps enjoy another Season of blissful bachelorhood in the arms of that little opera singer he’d had his eye on. He certainly had no desire to repeat the mistake he’d made five years earlier. “If I may offer a suggestion, dear sister—restrict your romantic musings to the heroes and heroines in those wildly creative novels you’re writing and keep me out of it.” “But—” “No buts,” he told her firmly. “I won’t allow you to play matchmaker for me.” Folding her arms across her chest, Laura stared back at Christopher, glowering. He knew she was struggling to hold her tongue, and he admired her effort. Truly he did. But there was no telling how long her self-restraint would last. Deciding to steer her attention away from him completely, he said, “All things considered, I think it would be more prudent if I were to find husbands for each of you.” “W-h-a-t?” The outburst came from Rachel, which wasn’t the least bit surprising. Christopher knew her entire world revolved around math and science. Settling down and starting a family was probably the furthest thing from her mind. “You’re not getting any younger,” he said, indelicately addressing the subject their mother had broached so often that it had turned into a regular sermon. “I’m only eighteen,” Fiona said with marked indignation. “Hardly an old maid yet.” “True,” Christopher agreed, patting her hand in a gesture he hoped would soothe her. “I admit that your situation is not as urgent as Rachel’s or Emily’s, who, if I may remind you, are three and twenty and two and twenty, respectively.” “It’s good to know that when age is of concern, everyone in this family can be quite precise indeed,” Rachel said, her eyes flashing as she pressed her lips together in a firm line.
Born in Denmark, Sophie Barnes spent her youth traveling with her parents to wonderful places all around the world. She's lived in five different countries, on three different continents, and speaks Danish, English, French, Spanish and Romanian. She has studied design in Paris and New York and has a bachelor's degree from Parsons. But, most impressive of all, she's been married to the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
While living in Africa, Sophie turned to her lifelong passion: writing. When she's not busy dreaming up her next romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, cooking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading. She currently lives on the East Coast. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/02/lady-sarahs-sinful-desires-secrets-at.html
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23149157-lady-sarah-s-sinful-desires?ac=1 Goodreads Series Link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/136344-secrets-at-thorncliff-manor
Twisted
Lost # 2 By: Cynthia Eden Releasing April 28th, 2015 Avon
In the second seductive Lost novel from New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden, an obsessed Last Option Search Team agent goes looking for trouble—and finds her in the Big Easy.
Dean Bannon comes to New Orleans for one reason only: to track down a missing sixteen-year-old girl. That’s before he meets the drop-dead gorgeous con artist who makes him want to lose his legendary control. With her past, Emma Castille doesn’t claim to be psychic. She just notices things other people don’t. Like the fear in a runaway’s eyes-or the pain in an ex-FBI agent’s heart. Her chemistry with Dean is blistering, but Emma follows her passion . . . not someone else’s orders. Then a madman breaks into Emma’s home and leaves a twisted message: “You’re next.” Now Dean refuses to let her out of his sight until he pries every last secret from her full, sexy lips. And suddenly Emma’s aching to give him everything he wants. Review:
Emotional, sensual, action packed thrill ride, that pulled me right in from the first words.
The story has such an eerie, scary, and a bit creepy start, and that tone holds through the book. The atmosphere is SO intense, when the past demons of the characters, as well as the current evil in the city, are running on their heels. The connection between Emma and Dean is fierce, it's so immediate, it feels like they have known each other forever. The mistrust and doubt between them at the beginning clouds the view of each other, but the attraction has such a strong pull, they seem to be helpless against it. Emma is a refreshing character to get to know, her ability to read people, the way she pays attention, is amazing, admirable. She is bold, saucy, and sassy, a person who has learned to rely only to herself, for a very good reason. Dean is smart, dark, and protective, with secrets of his own. With Emma, he is letting his control go, and learning about dreams of a future, he never even thought about before. The madness and evil are constantly present in the story. Part of the tale is told from the villain's point of view, his hateful, heinous thoughts giving me the chills. The fear he creates around him was nearly suffocating at times. The LOST team is stuck, in what seems like an ongoing nightmare, a hell, a tangled web of dead bodies, motives, and the victims are just piling up. Yet with the brilliant writing from the author, I found myself bursting into a laughter out loud, with the subtle humorist slip from a character at unexpected places and times. Absolutely brilliant, gloomy, sensual story, that I wanted to inhale at one sitting ~ Five Spoons! Meet the author:
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 two-time finalist for the RITA® award (she was a finalist both in the romantic suspense category and in the paranormal romance category). Since she began writing full-time in 2005, Cynthia has written over thirty novels and novellas. Cynthia lives along the Alabama Gulf Coast. She loves romance novels, horror movies, and chocolate. Her favorite hobbies include hiking in the mountains (searching for waterfalls) and spelunking.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Going Rogue
Ribbons and Rogues # 1 By: Jessica Jefferson Releasing May 6, 2015 Soul Mate Publishing _
The ribbon means you have it all – beauty, wealth, power ... everything but love.
Miss Meredith Castle leaves behind everything she knows to join her great aunt in London and become leader of the infamous girls’ club, The Ribbons. She’s willing to make whatever sacrifices necessary to redeem her ailing mother, even if that means leaving her childhood love behind to scale London’s social ladder. When Derek Weston’s best friend receives the offer of a lifetime, he encourages her to take it. Unwilling to let her go completely, he chases after her, only to find the sweet girl he loved replaced by a spoiled debutante. A broken man, he leaves London to start a new life at sea. Five years later, Meredith realizes her reign as Queen of the Ball is about to come to an end, if she doesn’t do something to fix her tarnished reputation. Pairing up with the Season’s newest wallflower seems like the perfect plan, until she finds out her demure friend is being pursued by the very man she thought she’d never see again. Only, Derek Weston isn’t who he used to be. He’s inherited a Scottish title and grown into an arrogant man she barely recognizes; yet in her heart, she knows she still loves him. Torn between her past and an uncertain future, can she find a way back to the life she used to have and the boy who once adored her?
“You couldn’t love me.” Meredith’s shoulders fell. “You haven’t seen me for over a year—too much has changed. It’s too late.”
“A year means nothing when I’ve known you for a lifetime,” he argued. “A year is a lifetime.” She shook her head. “I’m not the person I used to be.” “Of course you are. After you come home—” “Middlebury is no longer my home and I can’t go back. There’s nothing for me there.” “Except me?” He’d meant it as a bold declaration of his intentions. But his confidence was wavering and he knew the words were as much a question as they were anything else. “Don’t you see—I can’t marry you.” Her words cut like a knife. “I’ve a real chance here. Aunt Cynthia thinks I can be a duchess. An actual duchess! Can you imagine? Think of all I can do for my mother.” “I had no idea you held such lofty aspirations,” he said quietly, the ring tucked tightly within his fist. She looked down. “You said it yourself once—I deserve more than what life in the village has to offer me. How can I settle for being the wife of an officer when I have a real chance at a title?” He dropped the ring on the floor, the weight of it finally too much to bear. “Somewhere along the way you seem to have forgotten what’s truly important, Mere.” “And what’s that?” “Love, friendship, loyalty…” She shook her head. “My mother followed love and look where that got her. She has nothing now but a crumbling house and stacks of bills. It takes far more than love to make a life—it takes a fortune.” And then he knew. This shell of a woman was certainly not his Meredith. His Meredith would never be so callous—so ruthless. It was her eyes, hair, and smile—but not her spirit. The girl he loved was nowhere to be found in the woman in front of him. Derek cleared his throat. “You’ve changed.” She looked at him. “We’re just too different now. I had hoped that it would be easy, that you’d just forget about me over time. Why do you think I stopped writing all those months ago?” It was the final blow to their friendship. Meredith hadn’t been as busy with her lessons as he’d thought. He knew the truth now—perhaps he’d known it all along. She hadn’t been too busy to write, she’d been too busy for him. She’d been trying to end their friendship amicably by simply ignoring the fact it had ever existed. “I shouldn’t have come here,” he said quietly. “Probably not.” She wrapped her arms around her middle, just as she had when she was younger. His heart ached for the memory. He needed to leave, to be as far from this place as he could get. But there was one thing he couldn’t leave without. Taking her by the arms, he pulled her close, and kissed her fiercely. She didn’t resist. She returned his kiss with just as much emotion, her arms snaking their way up his chest. Before she’d left, he’d stolen a brief kiss. The chaste exchange hadn’t lasted but a second, both of them so inexperienced. But he’d spent nights dreaming about it, imagining all he’d do differently given the opportunity again. Now, she kissed him with a skill that he didn’t bother to question. He knew someone else had taught her, but he didn’t care. He wanted her to remember him, remember this moment. He kissed her with every intention of scarring a memory into her consciousness so that after this, every kiss she’d ever receive would pale in comparison to his. He poured every ounce of himself into it—every feeling he’d ever hidden, all the love he’d ever felt for her. His tongue plunged deeper, exploring the secret places inside her mouth. This kiss was the requiem for what was to become his past. When he felt her knees start to buckle, he knew it was time. Derek pulled away. His gaze locked briefly with hers. Her eyes were heavy with desire and her lips were red and swollen from the pleasurable assault. He said nothing. Instead, he walked straight for the door— ready to leave the place where his vision for the future had been shattered into thousands of irreparable shards. And he’d be damned before he tried to pick them up. Meet the author:
Jessica Jefferson makes her home in Almost-Chicago with her husband, nine and three year old girls, guinea pigs, and English bulldog Pete. When she's not busy trying to find middle-ground between being a modern career woman and Suzy-Homemaker, she loves to watch "Real Housewives of [insert city here]" and performing unnecessary improvements to her home and property.
Jessica writes Regency-era historical romance with a modern twist, infused with humor. She always tries to create endearingly flawed heroes and one of a kind heroines that you'll want to continue knowing long after you read the last page. Author Links: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Wedding fever has hit the little town of Marietta…
Lisa Renee loves weddings. As owner of Marietta’s bridal salon, Lisa takes charge when a celebrity wedding rolls into town and does what she does best: hosting the fairy tale wedding her clients dream of. But the celebrity’s badly behaving bridesmaids shatter Lisa’s poise, excitement, and hopes of putting Marietta and her boutique on the map. The only place she can find peace is on the pediatric ward of the local hospital where she volunteers, a place that holds more meaning to her than anyone knows. Leave it to the handsome and charming new doctor to change all of that… Dr. Adam Brady is enjoying his new job and anonymity at Marietta’s hospital, but he hasn’t been able to focus entirely since the gorgeous business owner and hard-working volunteer piqued his interest. As he spends more time with her, sparks fly, and he realizes that he’s not the only one in Marietta with secrets… Sweet romance in the town of Marietta, Montana. It is always lovely to visit the town, and 'meet' with the old friends from there. This story is the first one in the wedding series, and it certainly puts the reader in the mood for romance and weddings. There was extra spice to the story with the celebrity wedding preparations (what happen to the couple, and the wedding?? I really wanted to know...) and the problems with Lisa's sister, that didn't come into a complete conclusion as well. I loved the volunteering Lisa was doing at the hospital. Also the drama and danger that came with Adam's complete surrender to his job, and dedication to help all, no matter the situation, gave more depth to the story, even though it brought a few wrinkles in the fragile and new relationship. The romance between Adam and Lisa is not easy. The attraction and connection is there, but like everyone else, they have history, and past, that they rather keep to themselves. But despite the many events that put waves on the romance between the doctor and wedding gown shop owner, love wins. Clearly through the story comes the message how important honesty, openness, and trust is in any relationship. A lovely novella, perfect for a rainy spring evening ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
RACE AGAINST TIME
The last thing Krista Curry expected to find in a soccer stadium was a time bomb. When she alerts explosives expert Cash Dixon, she becomes a local hero. But the attention could expose her real name—and the infamous past she fought to escape. Cash promises Krista protection from the bomber's retaliation. Yet she hesitates to trust him as she sees his suspicion about her grow with every question she dodges. She can't expect Cash to continue to safeguard her unless she tells him the truth. Now Cash must decide if she's an innocent woman or guilty accomplice. But the clock is ticking down—and the real bomber is still on the loose… First Responders: Brave men and women alert and ready for danger and love.
Another action packed story from the Love Inspired Suspense line of books. I'm liking this line more and more each month, these stories are full of crime solving heroes and heroines, faith and love.
This story brings the action on from the first page, nothing to bring up the tense mood like a countdown with a bomb. And the intense feeling stays throughout the story, with so twists in the plot, surprises coming up, the tale moves at a fast pace. There is not only the fear from the bomber, Krista is hiding some major secrets from her past, and the danger of the media outing her past is constantly present in Krista's mind, bring the old nightmares into the present. While hunting for the truth, the bomber, and keeping Krista and Otto safe, Cash is also faced with his past, the sorrow, pain and failures of it. In the midst of all the chaos, the search for peace, balance, and trust in God is so real, and well set into the story. This gripping tale is full of life and energy, crime scene after crime scene creating more confusion and tension. The relationship forming between Krista and Cash is delicate and sweet temptation for Cash, who is trying to stay professional, despite his feelings for Krista. This series of the First Responders is one that I will keep an eye on in the future ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
IN THIS THRILLING CONCLUSION TO THE ADAIR AFFAIRS BY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR ELLE JAMES, THE LONG-LOST ADAIR HEIR IS FINALLY REVEALED!
Thanks to a DNA test, ranch hand Noah Scott discovers he's heir to a billion-dollar fortune. Now an Adair, Noah must come to grips with his true identity and the shocking murder of his real father. Then he discovers that the one woman he thought he could trust was spying on him for his siblings, and he cuts Rachel Blackstone out of his life. But his father's killer has never been caught… With all those close to Noah targets—including Rachel—Noah needs to set a dangerous trap…using himself as ultimate bait.
Fast paced, constant action mixed with a romance on an emotional roll-a-coaster, and meddling family makes this a fantastic ending for the Adair Affairs series.
Noah and Rachel have become friends, while Noah has been giving her riding lessons. Now that Noah finds out he is the missing heir to the Adair family, he feels like the only person he can trust is Rachel. Until he finds out, Rachel has been spying on him the whole time, for his siblings. That sets off the events, that include many murder attempts, accidents, and constant danger to the lives of those close to Noah. The story moves fast, and kept the interest, it was hard to put down. There's so much action, surprises, twists in the plot, that I was hanging on to every word. The romance between Noah and Rachel is fragile. Noah is struggling with his feelings, since he knows, Rachel lied to him. Trust is hard to build again, but as he is putting everything else in his life on the hold, to protect Rachel's life, it is hard not to fall deeper and deeper for her. Together they are seamless team, they have the same interests, enjoy each others company, and the connection and electricity between them is sizzling. With all the loose ends tied up, and questions finding answers, this ending to the series brings the family finally all together in the action packed conclusion, where we are reminded that life is too short and unpredictable to hide our feelings, and hold onto grudges ~ Four Spoons |