A stolen boy
A haunted soldier A cornered con woman… Rafe Angelito thought he was done with the demons from his past—until his son is kidnapped. Blackmailed into abducting an American heiress, the legionnaire soon finds himself trapped in paradise with a fiery, daring beauty who's nothing he expects…and everything he desires. But when he uncovers her own dark secret, Rafe realizes he's made a critical mistake—one that could cost him everything. Playing body double for a spoiled socialite was supposed to be Holly Ryan's ticket to freedom. But when she's snatched off her yacht by a tall, dark and dangerous stranger, the not-quite-reformed con artist will make a desperate play to turn her captor from enemy to ally, by any means necessary. Yet as scorching days melt into sultry nights, Holly is drawn to the mysterious capitaine, with his unexpected sense of honor and his searing touch. When they're double-crossed, they'll have to risk trusting each other in ways they never imagined…because in this deadly game of deception, it's their lives—and hearts—on the line.
Two lost souls, fighting for a chance to survive, in the midst of fast paced, brutal action and heart-stopping suspense.
I am still gasping for a breath. What an amazing suspense story, filled with gruesome, cruel action, close combat, kidnappings, human trafficking, destinies that make you want to cry out loud, with the heartbreaking doom. The twist in the plot kept coming, the events escalating, the mistakes made by characters having disastrous consequences. Everything in the story is moving fast, also the attraction between Holly and Rafe. The lies they tell to each other, to survive the situation, starts to unveil, and a fragile trust is formed in-between them. But to survive, they have to keep a clear head, and the fighting mode, or everything is lost. I loved the characters, they had survived, so far, the unthinkable, both of them. But they had not only survived, but soared to a new level, fought away from their past, and made a better chance with the future for themselves. Now everything was in peril. Yes, the feelings between them develop fast, it is fiery, and passionate as they come together, the danger around them fueling them on. The beautiful tropical scenery around them captured my mind, and lulled me into a false security of the peaceful, yet ardent, moments between Rafe and Holly. There were moments, especially with young Theo, that broke my heart, and I felt like I was right there, facing the unthinkable actions, they were forced to perform. I fell in love with the story, with the characters, the rapid action, got emotionally involved with the story, and prayed for hope, for a brighter future for all of them. What a whirlwind experience this story is, one not to be missed by any romantic suspense fans! ~ Five Spoons!
As a journalist, Brynn Kelly once spent her days chasing stranger-than-fiction news reports. Now she spends them writing larger-than-life novels, in a happy bubble of fiendish plots and delicious words. Brynn has a journalism degree, and has won several prestigious writing and journalism awards, including the Valerie Parv Award and Pacific Hearts Award. Her debut novel, Deception Island, was a Golden Heart finalist. She’s also a bestselling non-fiction author, in her native New Zealand.
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Silent Hearts
Hamilton Stables #3 By: Melissa West Releasing Date May 10, 2016 Lyrical Shine
The Hamilton brothers have horse racing in their blood, and their sprawling Kentucky farm is the family’s pride and joy. But they’ve got plenty of passion to spare…
Nick Hamilton has always known he’d take the reins of the family business when his father died, but that doesn’t make it any easier when the time comes. Especially with his two siblings tempted by a shrewd offer from a huge corporation to buy Hamilton Industries. Needing advice, Nick turns to his sensible childhood friend, Becca Stark—and finds her suddenly grown-up beauty ignites brand-new confusion, and crystal clear desire… Becca has loved Nick for as far back as she can remember, but she decided long ago that telling him would be a mistake. Stubborn, strong Nick doesn’t see her as anything but the tomboy she used to be—or does he? As she helps him untangle his feelings about the ranch’s future, the familiar bond between them heats into an explosive attraction—and the kind of love that just might take the lead…
Becca closed the freezer and then, missing its wonder, she fanned herself with her tank top. “It’s time I reconsider a move up north, but then snow and driving in snow.”
“Yeah, that’d be pretty dangerous with your track record.” She continued to fan herself. “What? It was one mailbox, not the whole street.” “Two mailboxes.” “All right, fine. Two. But I bought them replacements.” She grabbed a flyer from her stack of mail, folded it in half, and used it as a makeshift fan. “Ahhh.” “What are you, menopausal or something?” She pointed at him. “Watch your mouth, boy.” He laughed, the sound so glorious she almost closed her eyes again so she could bask in it, but then that would be all sorts of awkward, and Becca tried to maintain her cool around her best friend. Even if right now she was anything but cool in every sense of the word. “Now spill it.” Becca pulled out a bottle of water and leaned a hip against the counter. “You could at least drink with me.” “It's five thirty. I like to keep my alcoholic tendencies for nighttime hours.” “It's P.M. That stands for nighttime.” “Wow. Is that what that Ivy League education of yours taught you? 'Cause you might want to ask for a refund. At least a partial, right? Because night starts with an N, not a P, and time starts with a T, not an M. And, in fact, P.M. stands for post meridiem, so you can send me that money they give you for the refund.” “All right.” Nick pulled out his wallet, counted out several bills, and tossed them onto the counter. “Now go turn on the damn A/C. It's hot in here.” With a loud, long, and drawn-out sigh, Becca pushed the money back toward him. “You know I'm not taking that.” “Well, I'm not taking it back, so take it or burn it.” He shrugged. “It's nothing to me.” “See that right there? That's why you can't get a solid date. No girl wants a guy who burns money. I mean seriously. Not only is that six shades of insane, but hello, fire hazard, right?” He cracked a smile and she grinned back, lost in those amazing blue eyes, crystal clear even through his glasses. Years and years around him and she still couldn't pinpoint the exact shade. They were sky blue with flecks of navy and turquoise. They were perfect...he was perfect. And now she'd drifted into lala land again.
Melissa West writes heartfelt Southern romance and teen sci-fi romance, all with lots of kissing. Because who doesn't like kissing? She lives outside of Atlanta, GA, with her husband and two daughters and spends most of her time writing, reading, or fueling her coffee addiction.
For sneak peeks at upcoming works, prizes, and more, join Mel's Madhouse: https://www.facebook.com/groups/MelsMadhouse Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GR
Conveniently Wed
Marriage for any reason but love was once unthinkable to Maryland councilman Henry Nash. But when an innocent encounter with a criminal puts Henry's reputation in jeopardy, he'll make any sacrifice to maintain custody of his orphaned nieces. And an alliance with a powerful politician's daughter could secure the little girls' futures. As long as gentle Rebekah Van der Geld never hears the rumors surrounding her new groom. Refusing her father's choice of husband wasn't an option for dutiful Rebekah. But Henry's kindness is a happy revelation, and she's quickly falling for his adorable nieces. so she allows herself to hope this unconventional arrangement could become much more. But can it survive a shattering revelation that puts their new family in danger?
Can an arranged, political marriage turn out to be a blessing from God?
In war-torn Baltimore, the emotions are high, everyone still in the survival mode, even though the war had declared ended, the battles are ongoing on the emotional and political level. Rebekah has grown up in a loveless home, with no affection, but harsh punishments. She is struggling not to see her husband the same as her father. It seems that the events make it impossible for her to trust Henry, fear and resentment uppermost in her mind. Henry admires his new wife, even finds her attractive. But it does take drastic measures, before Henry and Rebekah learn to communicate, to hear each other, instead of fear the possible consequences of their actions. The story has a heavy focus on the political turmoil the country, and Baltimore is in, and how it could reflect on Henry and Rebekah. I personally enjoy more the side of the development of the characters and the relationship, and found the beginning of the story little on the heavy side. But as the events unfold, and the focus at the last quarter of the book turns into the personal and spiritual growth, as well as the development of the relationship and the feelings Henry and Rebekah have for each other, and the little family unit they have formed, the tale is moving, triumphant, and adoringly tender. From the hands of an abusing father, to an arranged marriage, Rebekah has to learn to trust, to have faith, and find her own voice, and place, to be able to learn to have hope, and to love, to build the kind of life, and future, she always dreamed of. ~ Three Spoons
In New York Times bestselling author Elle James's latest, one woman finds she's unsafe in her own home—and in her heart…
Real estate whiz Jillian Taylor thinks heroes and haunted houses are bogus. But when a series of strange events leaves her in danger, Stealth Ops Specialist Chance McCall is quick to the scene. Jillian can't resist the chemistry brewing between her and the sexy agent. But as she and Chance deconstruct her nightmares, someone becomes more desperate to keep those secrets from surfacing. Chance knows there's more going on at the derelict Victorian manor than just ghosts—just as he knows there's something about the blonde beauty he can't resist. If only he could help decipher the meaning of Jillian's tortured dreams…and keep her safe in his arms forever.
Haunted mystery, life threatening incidents, while the best man and maid of honor find themselves falling hard, and fast, despite the odds against them.
I liked the setting of the story, the aery, murky, mysterious house, a place people believed was haunted. The mystery behind the dangerous attempts towards Jillian's life bring tension, and fear. The odd disappearance of the young girl long time ago seems somehow being connected to the current events. The town seems charming, the folks there protective of each other, and in two camps, when it comes to the house Jillian is making to be her home. The suspense does feel a little predictable, it didn't take me long to figure the whole mystery out, but it was still entertaining to read. The attraction between Jillian and Chance is instant, yet believable. I liked them together, they are compatible, good together, they not only make a great investigative team, they have a tune in-between them, that is enjoyable, likable, and compelling. I like it when the conflict between the couple isn't something they are self creating, but more of an outside element, or set of circumstances. I think this is one of those stories, that could have greatly benefited from an epilogue, a little more rounded ending to bring fuller closure to the tale. Mystical history of a house, puzzling, perilous events, adventurous, attractive couple, trying to solve the enigma, and keep each other at the arm's length, because the relationship is the last thing either of them are looking for right now - great entertainment! ~ Four Spoons
THE PROTECTOR'S MISSION
Honoring a promise to a fallen comrade, former army medic David Evans heads to Arizona to check up on the soldier's sister. But as his train pulls into Desert Valley, David witnesses a drug run gone wrong and narrowly avoids the bullets flying his way. And when the police show up, he discovers the investigating officer is the woman he's supposed to look after. With a fiercely protective K-9 partner and a new badge, Whitney Godwin insists she can take care of herself and her infant daughter. But the criminals want both David and Whitney permanently silenced, so David will stop at nothing to protect the family he yearns to join. Rookie K-9 Unit: These lawmen solve the toughest cases with the help of their brave canine partners
A love story, that seems like kismet delivered by her late brother, in a midst of a small town crime spree, with all the odds against the rookies of the K-9 unit.
I loved how Whitney and David got together, there's just something utterly beautiful, romantic, and serendipitous about how they met. And even though the connection between them is strong, the attraction is there, and they genuinely like each other, the road to be together isn't easy, automatic, or without obstacles. The faith both Whitney and David has in God, and the trust they have, for Him to guide them, in the moment of need and danger, is reassuring. Even though I think this book can be read as a stand alone, there's ongoing investigations of several crimes, that started in the previous book, book one of the series, and I believe will be going on until the end of the series. There's fast paced action, crimes committed, drug cartel on a loose, and lives are in danger, as David helps Whitney to solve the case. It was tense, chaotic, and fearful, since it seems both David and Whitney are targeted especially by the criminals. The crimes that started in this tale, are solved within the book, but the previously happened murders are still open cases. Interesting concept, and great cast of characters, with multiple authors, that are carrying the series, and doing a stellar job with it. The circumstances within the small town, the police station, the K-9 unit, and the rookies themselves, are all intriguing matters in the series, and holds the interest high, I can't wait for the next book in the series ~ Four Spoons
Power Play
Pilots Hockey #2 By: Sophia Henry Released February 16th, 2016 Flirt
In Sophia Henry’s blistering follow-up to Delayed Penalty, hailed as “sexy, fun, and full of angst” by L. P. Dover, a good girl and a hockey hunk face off against expectations—and this match is guaranteed to see plenty of action.
Beneath her innocent facade, Gabriella Bertucci has her reasons to be standoffish with guys. Especially guys like Landon Taylor, a star defenseman on the minor-league Detroit Pilots and the object of a serious crush since he first walked into her family’s market. But when Landon comes through for her in a moment of crisis, Gaby starts to wonder if there might be more to Landon than hard muscles and fast skates. Landon isn’t afraid of telling Gaby that he’s got it for her bad. The problem is, she seems unwilling to believe it. And though Landon enjoys his reputation as a cool-headed athlete, he hates losing—both on the rink and off. It’s his competitiveness that makes him so damn good at what he does . . . but it also makes him just a little bit complicated. One minute Gaby’s tempted to give in; the next, she’s getting cold feet. How can she trust a guy who’s destined for bigger and better things to stick around? Then again, when Landon pulls her close with those powerful arms, the only thing that matters is right now.
I circled the room in slow motion. If it was possible to be completely creeped out and in awe at the same time, that was how I felt. The graffiti scared me. A gang member could walk in, paint cans drawn, at any minute. Then again, I’m pretty sure Mafia guys walked in to Bertucci Produce on a regular basis, so I guess danger could be anywhere.
“What are you thinking?” Landon asked. He climbed onto a step at the bottom of one of the columns, wrapped one arm around it, and hung off. Like someone familiar with stripper poles. “You don’t want to know.” I shook my head, laughing off my thoughts. Landon grabbed the column with his extended arm and jumped down. “I do. You’re really quiet. I can’t tell if you’re freaked out or what?” “A little freaked out. This place is creepy on the inside. But cool. Creepy cool.” I snapped a few more shots of the interior, trying to get the daylight streaming through the windows. I wanted to capture the haunted feel; a halo, a shadow, something. “Creepy cool. Haunted. Abandoned. I just described our whole fucking life as Detroiters, eh?” A bitter laugh escaped him. “I know, right? I don’t know one person without a painful story.” “What’s yours?” “Hmm?” I lowered the camera. “What’s your story? I see a shy girl from a successful family.” “Success comes with hard work.” “I never said it didn’t.” “My story? Arson. Murder. Most recently theft.” I ticked off the tragedies that my family had gone through, and those were only the ones that affected me directly. It sounded like a suspense novel. “Holy shit, Gaby.” “I should be in jail, right?” I smiled to lighten the mood. “But this is Detroit.” “Wanna talk about it?” A beam of sunlight bounced off a piece of broken glass in the debris covering the floor, creating a prism across one of the large columns. Sunshine and rainbows and murder and arson. Life. And death.
Sophia Henry, a proud Detroit native, fell in love with reading, writing, and hockey all before she became a teenager. She did not, however, fall in love with snow. So after graduating with an English degree from Central Michigan University, she moved to North Carolina, where she spends her time writing books featuring hockey-playing heroes, chasing her two high-energy sons, watching her beloved Detroit Red Wings, and rocking out at concerts with her husband.
Author Link: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
IN THE LINE OF FIRE
Navy chaplain Angela Gallagher wants to put the past behind her, but she's still haunted by the wartime death of her assistant. So when his brother claims he's in danger and pleads for her to use her family's private detective company's resources to help him stay alive, she can't turn him down. But someone will stop at nothing—even murder—to keep her from revealing their secrets. She'll have to depend on a military colleague to keep her head above water. Dr. Dan Blackwell was in the field with her when her assistant died, and he's determined to keep her safe. Can they sift through the web of lies to find the truth without losing their lives? Pacific Coast Private Eyes: Sisters fighting crime
I was blown away with this story, the message is strong, the story explosive, and filled with mystery and drama, individual destinies, and the horrible pain and fatigue, many returning service personnel feels and lives with.
The story is so well written, I inhaled it, as it kept flowing of the pages. I loved every turn and twist the plot took, and there were plenty. Angela and Dan had that one perfect moment in time, a basketball game, of all things, before their lives took a turn, and was never the same again. Now, on a mission, working together to solve the mysteries, I loved the teamwork they were able to accomplish, and the connection they had with each other. Even the sort of mentoring with each other, they took upon themselves, amongst the explosive, non stop, fearful action. They both had deep wounds from their military service time. The things they had seen, experienced, and lived through, the nightmares, flashbacks, the PDST especially Angela had, it was so well written, I nearly felt the pain and torment they felt. Dan's support and guidance, when Angela admits, she has lost her connection to God, and the ensuing words, of how He never leaves us, His patience with us, were comforting to read. The lessons of forgiveness, to ourselves, and to another was exemplary, a teaching I want to remember myself. The story has nail-biting suspense, filled with mystery, danger, and fear, as there's the doubt, that you can't trust no one, not even those, you should run to, at the time of trouble. The human tragedies are touching, the lives and destinies, all makes you take a pause. The budding romance, the feelings Angela and Dan are developing towards each other are not only sweet, but also healing. This story is just all around an amazing tale of God's guidance, His faithfulness, forgiveness, and plan for us, and how it all works out, when it comes to our lives, while at the same time delivering thrilling suspense and action in an intriguing tale ~ Five Spoons
Love of the Game
Stardust, Texas #3 By: Lori Wilde Releasing April 26, 2016 Avon
A sexy sports superstar discovers his body isn’t the only thing that needs healing in this newest Stardust, Texas novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Wilde…
With major league good looks and talent, Dallas Gunslingers relief pitcher Axel Richmond was living the good life. Even if the roar of the crowd could never distract him from the loss of his young son. But now with an injured shoulder and his career on the line, Axel is stuck recuperating at a ranch in Stardust, Texas . . . striking out only with his gorgeous physical therapist. Kasha Carlyle has one week to get Axel back in action or she can kiss her much-needed job with the Gunslingers goodbye. And any chance to seek custody of the orphaned half-sister she never knew existed. She quickly learns that Axel’s guarded heart also needs healing . . . requiring all kinds of sneaky plays and sexy moves in extra innings.
Sweet and magical story about love, life, family, and living to the fullest.
Kasha and Axel communicate more with one long look, than most people during an hour long conversation. The connection is palpable between them, the passion ardent, and every moment they spent together, draws them closer to each other. Even the magical hope chest seems to agree with their destiny. But Kasha has wounds from her childhood, deep issues with emotions. She does all she can, to keep them under control, to hold on to that restraint, and not let her feelings free. That causes her to come off as distant, controlling, and remote, making it hard to connect with her, and relate to her. Axel has the patience to take the time, and make the effort, to get to know her. In the process, they learn to trust each other, and share their painful secrets with each other, as they grow, and heal from the deep wounds of their past. The story has subplots with Emma, Kasha's sister, and Dylan, Axel's son. I felt that both of these issues got a rushed solution, as the story, the journey Axel and Kasha were on, moved on. I was conflicted as I finished the book, surprised by some of the solutions, taken back by some of the decisions, the turns the plot took. But such is life, even in tales, it doesn't always go the road you would have chosen. Kasha and Axel both carry bags from their past, that they haven't fully processed, and let go. As they work on Axel's physical healing, they embark a journey, where they visit the past, trek through the difficult emotions and events, hike over the mountains of hindrance to move on, and Kasha conquer the fears of deep feelings, emotions felt freely, and let passion to guide her life ~ Three Spoons and a teaspoon on the side
It starts like this: an unexpected spark, instant attraction, the jolting jab of oh-so-you-feel-this-too? Flash fire in the belly. A corkscrew twist in the center of the chest. A physical ache that punches low and heavy and spreads out hard and fast through muscles and tendons, blood and bone.
Heady. Erotic. Thrilling. Physical therapist Kasha Carlyle had felt it before, this hot flare, runaway-mine-train-express that stirred fear in the dark recesses of her mind. She’d resisted it then. Resisted it now. But this? This here? This was something more. Stronger. Bolder. Scarier. Coal black eyes melted her resistance, seared it to ash. In that stopwatch moment when her gaze struck, and stuck to the steely stare of the Dallas Gunslingers’ most valuable pitcher, Axel Richmond. He’d just completed a physical therapy session with his trainer, Paul Hernandez, and he was sitting on a bench wearing nothing but red workout pants, his bare chest on display. Every glistening muscle was finely etched. Not a drop of fat on him. He was a splendid specimen of adult male in top physical shape, life and passion oozing from his pores. The only thing that seemed out of place was the black tattoo over his heart that spelled out “Dylan.” One look and everything and everyone blended and blurred as white-hot need transported them into their own little world far from the sports medicine facility in North Dallas, where baseball coaches, managers, administrators, and sports medicine specialists surrounded them. For a split second. Then pure panic set it. It was Tuesday, May seventeenth, and the second week of Kasha’s three-month probationary period at her new job working with injured major league baseball players. And she was already falling in lust. No. No. This simply would not do. Keeping her job was essential. Now that she had Emma to consider, she urgently needed the bump in salary to pay off the student loans that had gotten her through her PhD. Not to mention the excellent health insurance coverage. Finding out about Emma had changed everything. Quickly, Kasha peeled her gaze from Axel’s and studied the insignia on the wall above his head—the blue and green Gunslingers crossed dueling pistols logo—but she didn’t see a darn thing. Purposefully, she slowed her breathing, and forced herself to listen to the conversation. “I wish we had better news,” Dr. Tad Harrison, the lead physician on the team, said to Axel. Dr. Harrison had been the one to hire Kasha, and the one to caution her that only thirty percent of probationary employees made it past the first three months. “It takes a special breed to work with these ballplayers. They’re long on arrogance and stubbornness and always think they know best.” “I have a lot of patience,” she’d said because it was true. “I heard they call you the Exorcist in your current job,” Dr. Harrison had said. “Why is that?” She couldn’t keep from smiling. “My colleagues say I have a talent for taming difficult clients.” “And do you?” “I consider physical therapy a calling.” She folded her hands in her lap, and said without a hint of ego. “I was born for this work.” Dr. Harrison stroked his chin. “That’s what Rowdy said too.” Rowdy Blanton was the field manager for the Gunslingers. He was also Kasha’s brother-in-law, married to her younger adoptive sister, Breeanne, and he’d recommended her for the job. “If I hire you,” Dr. Harrison had continued. “It will be on your own merits, not your relationship to Rowdy. He got you this interview, but that’s as far as nepotism goes.” “As it should.” Kasha bobbed her head. The uncertainty of the job was why she hadn’t yet rented an apartment in Dallas. Every day, she made the one hundred and thirty-five mile, one-way trek to the stadium from her hometown of Stardust. While she was optimistic, she was also practical. She’d learned that fate could derail even the best intentions and you had to be ready to flow whichever way the current took you. For the next three months, until she solidified the job, she would keep making that drive. For Emma. Her thoughts took off in a hundred different directions at once. Stalled. Spun. Gathered momentum like an encroaching hurricane. Realizing her mind had wandered, she forcefully shut down the unproductive thoughts and directed her attention back to the patient. Axel Richmond. One more look and Kasha was on fire and she hated it. The last thing she wanted right now was to meet a guy, especially this guy. Whose stark dark hair was drenched in the heady sheen of sweat. He was as sexy as ten kinds of sin, and twice as handsome, and he was studying her through heavily lidded eyes as if she was the most fascinating creature he’d seen in years. Um . . . yes . . . that’s why her mind had wandered. To keep from dealing with the feelings his hot-to-trot gaze churned inside her. She let out such a long sigh that everyone in the room swiveled to stare. She kept her face blank and examined her fingernails, pretending she’d discovered a ragged cuticle. From the moment Axel had strolled into the therapy room with his pro-athlete swagger and princely sense of entitlement, she’d been mesmerized. Spellbound by the way his fitted T-shirt hugged his intricately muscled body. Then he’d stripped off the shirt, giving her an even more arresting view. A thick head of lush brown hair curled around his ears, and those powerful thighs strained at the seams of his workout pants. Whew.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Lori Wilde has sold seventy-eight works of fiction to four major New York Publishing houses.
Her first NYT bestseller, the third book in her Twilight, Texas series, The First Love Cookie Club has been optioned for a television movie. The town of Granbury, Texas, upon which her fictional town of Twilight, Texas is loosely based, honors Lori with an annual Twilight, Texas weekend each Christmas. A popular writing instructor, Lori is a two time RITA finalist and has four times been nominated for Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice Award. She's won the Colorado Award of Excellence, the Wisconsin Write Touch Award, The Golden Quill, the Lories, and The More than Magic. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads |Pinterest
Cara McCord had a new lease on life. After hearing the news that she was cancer free, the Texas beauty was ready to move forward and live life to the fullest…starting with losing her virginity. There was only one problem, though—the gorgeous blonde’s heart beat for one cowboy alone, and he was someone she knew she could never have.
Trace Briggs found the woman of his dreams when he was nine years old. For years he’d been forced to be a spectator on the sidelines of her life. But now circumstances had changed. The sexy, chiseled cowboy knew the time had come to claim the woman he’d loved since she was in pigtails. Convincing Cara would take all of his heart, and Trace was ready to put it all on the line. Will Cara finally allow herself to truly live…and love?
Poignant, sweet, emotional story, that left me reeling and in tears, desperately needing a moment to recover, like a great story does.
I love Melanie Shawn's stories, there's an amazing mix of real, raw life, deep feelings, and the kind prefect happily-ever-after-kind-of-love, that only is in fairy tales, and it is all bound together in such a way, that you connect with your mind and emotions to the tales and characters, that you feel like you know them, are part of their lives, and they are the people you want to do life with. So when one of these tales comes to an end, I am in desperate need of that moment, hugging my Kindle, and marking down when the next installment comes out. I don't remember when I have been so emotionally touched, as I was at the end of this story. I don't want to give anything out, but know that Trace and Cara have one of a kind connection. They have loved each other since their childhood, the friendship that has formed over their lifetime is special, and deep, the fact that Cara has got a new chance with life makes it more, in every possible way. I loved how Trace was with her, caring, protecting, loving Cara, just wanting to see her smile, laugh, to be happy. They have some obstacles, they have to overcome, but together they have more determination, stubbornness, and will than most small towns. But it is not only the love story that made the tale so swoon worthy, it is also the friends, that are there for you, willing to go the extra mile for you, and even make you momentarily uncomfortable, if it means happiness in the long run. And the family, that even though not perfect, still has each other's back, understands each other, support each other, and open their arms to you, when needed. When loving each other is as natural as breathing, when you have waited your lifetime to finally declare your feelings, and you are willing to ride the bumpy ride, to see, if future together is a possibility for you two - A breathtaking, tear trekking, ardent, and heartfelt story ~ Five Spoons
Good Girl
By: Lauren Layne Releasing May 17, 2016 Loveswept
In this steamy novel from the USA Today bestselling author of Blurred Lines, country music’s favorite good girl hides away from the world—and finds herself bunking with a guy who makes her want to be a little bad.
Jenny Dawson moved to Nashville to write music, not get famous. But when her latest record goes double platinum, Jenny’s suddenly one of the town’s biggest stars—and the center of a tabloid scandal connecting her with a pop star she’s barely even met. With paparazzi tracking her every move, Jenny flees to a remote mansion in Louisiana to write her next album. The only hiccup is the unexpected presence of a brooding young caretaker named Noah, whose foul mouth and snap judgments lead to constant bickering—and serious heat. Noah really should tell Jenny that he’s Preston Noah Maxwell Walcott, the owner of the estate where the feisty country singer has made her spoiled self at home. But the charade gives Noah a much-needed break from his own troubles, and before long, their verbal sparring is indistinguishable from foreplay. But as sizzling nights give way to quiet pillow talk, Noah begins to realize that Jenny’s almost as complicated as he is. To fit into each other’s lives, they’ll need the courage to face their problems together—before the outside world catches up to them.
Noah
“What time did you say this chick was arriving?” Finn asks around his cigarette. “Tomorrow morning,” I say, rapping my toe against a funny-looking floorboard and wincing when it buckles. “Huh.” Finn exhales and looks out the window. I know that tone. “What?” “Seems she might have gotten here early,” he says, a second before the quiet afternoon erupts with the sound of my dog losing his mind, mingled with the shrill piercing yap of a much smaller dog. “Seriously?” Finn shrugs and nods. “There’s a girl outside.” “Shit,” I mutter as I head toward the stairs, dodging the two broken ones. Ranger’s about as good a dog as they come, wouldn’t hurt a fly. But he’s a big dog with a big bark, and one serious weakness: gleefully humping smaller dogs. He’s a rescue, and though he was fixed after they brought him in, he’d already gone through canine puberty, or whatever. He’s still got the fierce urge to hump, although it’s more habit than hormones. I exit out the front door just in time to see my big brown Lab leap forward, his clumsy paws finding the shoulders of a blond girl who lets out a shriek, holding a cat above her head like that scene from The Lion King. “Ranger, no! Down.” I run forward, my hand finding the collar of my dog and yanking him backward as I search the ground to find the source of the small-dog barks still piercing the air. Then I register that the sound is coming from above, and realize . . . The cotton ball isn’t a cat. That orange piece of fluff is a dog, and Ranger is apparently in love. “What the heck is wrong with your dog?” the girl says as she slowly lowers the puffball from over her head, cradling the hideous little monster against her chest as it continues its high-pitched bloody-murder yips. “At least my dog is actually a dog,” I say, staring in horror at the pointy face of a canine that could fit in one of my hands. “I’ve seen dust bunnies bigger than that thing.” “Dolly’s a Pomeranian,” she says, setting a hand on top of the monster’s head. “She’s supposed to be this tiny.” “Well, Ranger’s a Lab. He’s supposed to be this normal.” “He attacked me,” she says, giving Ranger a wary look as his tongue hangs out the side of his mouth, his eyes locked lovingly on Dolly. “He didn’t want you, he wanted the . . . dog,” I say, forcing myself to acknowledge that the creature in her hands might be part of the canine family. “For what, dinner?” I don’t respond, because now that the crisis is averted, I’ve managed to shift my attention from the dogs to the girl, and . . . Holy shit. I’m not sure I’ve ever been sucker-punched by equal waves of lust and disdain before. Jenny Dawson is hot as hell. I knew that going in, but up close she’s even more mouthwatering. Her white skirt is short and tight, her legs long and toned. She’s wearing some billowing pink top, so I can’t get a good look at what’s happening there, but it doesn’t really matter. I’ve always been a legs man, and I can’t stop looking. The legs are a 10. The face is a 10. And the long blond hair spilling over one shoulder definitely begs to be spread over a man’s pillow. My pillow. And yet even as my cock says yes, my brain is saying hell no. Gorgeous as she is, she screams diva from the pink toenails to the sky-high stiletto sandals and all the way up to the carefully made-up face. I just turned my entire life upside down trying to get away from a woman exactly like this one, so this is definitely a look, don’t touch situation. But I’m looking. I’m definitely looking.
Lauren Layne is the USA Today Bestselling author of more than a dozen contemporary romance novels.
Prior to becoming an author, Lauren worked in e-commerce and web-marketing. A year after moving from Seattle to NYC to pursue a writing career, she had a fabulous agent and multiple New York publishing deals. Lauren currently lives in Manhattan with her husband and plus-sized Pomeranian. When not writing, you'll likely find her running (rarely), reading (sometimes), or at happy hour (often). Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Secret Baby Scandal
Bayou Billionaires #4 By: Joanne Rock Releasing May 1 (eBook) May 10 (Paperback) Harlequin Desire
His proposition: pretend they’re a couple to end a scandal. But she has secrets of her own…
Tatiana Doucet has dealt with sexy, arrogant athletes most of her life. But Jean-Pierre Reynaud is a whole different animal—in bed and on the field. Unbeknownst to him, their one amazing night produced a son. Now her family’s biggest football rival is back, offering a seductive wager she can’t refuse. Jean-Pierre despises the media. When rumors fly, he knows a fake relationship is the perfect diversion for the tabloids—and Tatiana’s unbridled passion is the perfect diversion for Jean-Pierre. But when she drops a baby bombshell, the scandal will rock them both!
Son?
Jean-Pierre had taken hits from the toughest, strongest, meanest players in the NFL. Afterward, as he lay in the grass with his ears ringing and his vision blurred, he would struggle to snap out of the slow-motion fog that felt kind of like being underwater. That was exactly how he felt walking into Tatiana’s apartment, her words slowly permeating his consciousness along with the cry of an infant. Dazed, confused and trying to stand up straight despite the floor shifting under his feet, Jean-Pierre stood in her foyer and waited for her to return from wherever she’d disappeared. “Mr. Reynaud?” An older woman in a simple gray dress stepped into the living area to his right. “Miss Doucet asked if you wouldn’t mind joining her in the family room. It’s just past the staircase on the left.” She pointed the way and then went about her business, picking up a few things in the living room. A bright blue blanket. A baby bottle. Seeing that bottle was like the second hit when you were already down. At the same time, it was enough to make the mental fog evaporate and get his feet moving. Fast. He needed answers now. Hell, he needed answers months ago. Tatiana had done a whole lot more than throw his career into a tailspin tonight with her unguarded remark to a member of the press. She’d been hiding the biggest possible secret that was going to bind their lives together forever. “Tatiana?” Her name was a sharp bark on his lips as he entered the spacious suite overlooking Central Park. Framed playbills lined the walls along with photos of Tatiana and her family. Tatiana with her father at her graduation from Columbia. The Doucets outside of a downtown skyscraper with the brass name plaque of her prestigious law firm. Every picture was a reminder of the life he might have had with her if her family hadn’t turned her against him. A blaze crackled in a fireplace on the far side of the living area. And beside it, in that warm glow of flickering light, he spotted her on the dark leather love seat, cradling a tiny bundle of blankets to her breast. Tatiana’s dark brown curls shielded her body as much as the blanket, the firelight making the skin of one shoulder glow where she’d unfastened her dress to feed the baby. Her baby. His…son. Something shifted inside Jean-Pierre, his whole world tipping on its axis as everything changed irreversibly.
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
A fresh start—that's all Devorah McGuire wants. As a former Marine and current Ranger with the US Forest Service, she's grown accustomed to keeping others safe. But when the unthinkable happens, she can only hope that a transfer to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, will allow her to put the past behind her for good.
Dev's mentor at Grand Tetons National Park is fellow canine handler and horseman Sloan Rankin. He shows Dev the spectacular trails, never knowing the terror that stalks her every move. Despite her lingering fear, Dev feels an attraction for Sloan as wild as their surroundings. With Sloan, Dev can envision a new life—a real home. Unless a vengeful man fresh out of prison succeeds in finishing what he started…
Sloan and Dev prove, that it is possible to learn to love, and trust, again, even though life has shown her less attractive side to them on several occasions in the past.
Sloan and Dev are solid together, the connection is immediate, they are drawn to each other, and attracted to each other, but first, they take their time, become friends, confidant, and get to know each other, before they act upon anything. I liked that. Sloan is so understanding, tender, and gentle with Dev. He understands where she comes from, and supports her every step to find a new beginning. Dev has lots to overcome, the pain from her childhood, the stalker that was after her at the previous job, she has to learn to trust her judgement, people around her, and herself in that regard. Both Dev and Sloan are likable characters, they are easy to relate to, their lives are interesting and hold the interest of the reader. The suspense of the tale is in the background mostly, the danger is present, but controlled, or so they think. The fear and malice hikes up towards the end, bring some intense and vicious moments to the story. The story is filled with details, some of them have no impact to the plot, just showing the life of the characters, like what cake they ate at dinner, how much they ate it, how much was left of it, and how they hoped to take the leftovers with them. There's also some repetition with these details, sometimes even in the same scene. Of course, these help to show a wider picture of the life the characters are living, their situation and level of comfort with each other. Some people like it, enjoy those details in their stories, and by all means, that's great. For me, it felt like fluff, fillers, that take my mind of the story, I lose my focus, and interest, and my mind start to wonder. Because of this, it took me awhile, to get to finish this book, I just had a hard time keeping my interest in the story. ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Of Flame and Promise
Weird Girls #6 By: Cecy Robson Released January 12, 2016 Loveswept
Perfect for fans of Keri Arthur and Bella Forrest, this short novel kicks off a sizzling new series in the award-winning Weird Girls saga as Celia’s sister Taran fights to have it all: independence, hot romance, and enough firepower to torch an army of blood-thirsty supernaturals.
Cursed by a spell meant to destroy them, Taran Wird and her sisters instead developed unique magical talents. With the power of fire and lightning literally at her fingertips, Taran doesn’t fear much. Demons, vamps, whatever—bring ’em on! Only one thing terrifies her: commitment. Taran is crazy about her boyfriend, Gemini, a sexy were with the incredible ability to split into two separate wolves. But after watching her sister go through heartbreak with the pack’s Alpha, Taran knows not to count on happily ever after—despite Gemini’s desire to claim her as his mate. Reluctantly, she agrees to meet his very traditional and conservative parents. Taran’s a badass with a mouth to match, and Gemini loves her for it. She’s just not positive these attributes will please Mom and Dad. Unsurprisingly, every attempt by Taran to bond with Gemini’s folks proves disastrous. But in the end, Taran finds that winning them over means unleashing her powers . . . and proving that this foul-mouthed fire-starter is a force to be reckoned with.
I’d woken only about an hour ago, Gemini’s warm, naked body curled against mine firing a need that required some serious quenching. So I buried my face in his lap to stir him from sleep.
Most women would have just said good morning, or nudged their partners ever so lovingly. But I wasn’t most women. Yeah, and you’re welcome, baby. Gemini slowed his deep thrusts, grunting hard as he finished, his face scrunched in what appeared to be pain. But that wasn’t pain, was it? Nope, not at all. He was simply reacting to how good it felt to join his body with mine. I nibbled my way along his neck, leaving marks that faded from one bite to the next until I reached his earlobe and tugged. “Mornin’, sexy,” I whispered. He growled something I didn’t quite understand. I didn’t speak a word of wolf, yet that deep snarl was as good as the dirty talk we’d exchanged during sex. I laughed. Okay, maybe it wasn’t as good as those naughty words. Yet a growl from a werewolf in his human form was a rare kind of hot few women would know. I continued to straddle Gemini as he effortlessly carried us from the center of the room, where we’d made love standing up, and back to our bed. The gentle way in which he kissed me was in direct contrast to our wicked sex, and to the male most saw. My lover was the second in command of the Tahoe region’s Squaw Valley Den Pack—intelligent, fierce, capable of crushing skulls, quietly confident, and with fighting skills few weres possessed. Not to mention he was hotter than the power I generated with my magic. All large anatomical parts and good looks aside, Gemini was . . . kind. When you trash-talked, and entered a room like you owned it like I did, it attracted a certain caliber of men. The kind that made me grateful I could protect myself with fire and lightning. Men could be cruel, and dangerous. I knew that better than most. But unlike those men I’ve known in my past, I trusted Gemini.
Cecy (pronounced Sessy) Robson is the new adult and contemporary romance author of the Shattered Past series, the O’Brien Family novels and upcoming Carolina Beach novels, as well as the award-winning author of the Weird Girls urban fantasy romance series. A 2016 double nominated RITA® finalist for Once Pure and Once Kissed, Cecy is a recovering Jersey girl living in the South who enjoys carbs way too much, and exercise way too little. Gifted and cursed with an overactive imagination, you can typically find her on her laptop silencing the yappy characters in her head by telling their stories.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
The Misbehaved
By: Jessica Jayne Releasing May 10, 2016 Totally Bound
Natalea Jones has had a rough life. An absentee father. A gambling addicted mother, who seems to show up only when she needs something—preferably money. Natalea survives her childhood and teenage years because of her best friend, Drake Harte, and his family. Even though she’s been in love with Drake for years, she refuses to let her lust come in the way of their friendship. Life without Drake is not possible and sex would certainly complicate things.
Drake Harte is not only known as the most eligible bachelor and firefighter in Gamble Park, Florida, but he’s also known for sexing the ladies and leaving them. Only he knows the reason he can’t make a commitment to the women throwing themselves at him—he’s in love with his best friend. It’s time he either goes for it or moves on. After Natalea and Drake share a night of passion, an unexpected event occurs that proves to both of them that life—and love—are too precious.
Or what? Was his firecracker of a best friend challenging him? He may have gotten off his twenty-four-hour shift at the firehouse mere minutes ago, but he was always ready to rumble with Natalea. Her honey-colored eyes gleamed with the familiar twinkle she had every single time they provoked each other. She loved it as much as he did.
Damn! He loved everything about her. She was a whole lot wrapped up in a five-foot-three package. She was beautiful—beautiful in a way that wasn’t cover model, but real. Sweet. Caring. Honest. Strong. Stronger than anyone he knew. Her life hadn’t been easy. He exhaled a laugh before dropping the towel and placing his hands on the bar top. Having spent as much time as he had in The Misbehaved, he knew exactly how much space he had to clear before he’d be on the ground on the other side. He pushed off with his feet on the stool rungs and slammed it to the ground with a bang as he propelled himself over. He landed with a thud on the black rubber floor mat. Heads swiveled in their direction. Natalea yelped and dropped the towel. She spun on her heels and dashed to get away from him. He swung his arm around her waist and jerked her flush against him. The feel of her softness against the rigid planes of his body made a groan bubble up in his chest. He bit it off. He hoisted her over his shoulder and wandered out onto the floor. Her lush breasts pressed against him and made his cock twitch to life in his jeans. Her legs flailed in the air, her black work boots thudding against his abdomen. She may have been small, but she was mighty. He’d give her that. As the thought entered his mind, her teeth sank into his lower back muscles through his T-shirt. “Ow,” he cried, surprised by her bite. “Watch it, baby girl. You know better than to walk this tough-girl path with me. It never ends well for you.” She grunted and groaned at his words. Several of the male patrons hooted and hollered. “Nice legs,” one of the guys standing by the pool table shouted. A few whistles followed and Drake realized what the fuss was about. Her already scant jean shorts had ridden up her legs, exposing all of her thighs, maybe more. Despite the crowd being predominantly female, the few males made themselves quite vocal. A wave of possessiveness flowed over him. He didn’t like that the guys were gawking at her ass poised in the air, and at her tan, muscular legs draped over his shoulder. Legs he’d fantasized about encircling his hips as he buried himself inside her. That fantasy had recurred on numerous occasions over the last decade. Yes, he pined after his best friend. Had for years. Whenever she was around, he popped a perpetual boner. He also needed to protect her, which pretty much ruined any chance she had for a relationship with anyone else. No one—and he meant no one—was good enough for her. © Jessica Jayne
Jessica Jayne is a born and raised small-town Ohio girl who moved to the Sunshine State after graduating from college. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English. What college major could possibly be better than one that makes you read novels and write about them! Now she is thrilled to be able to share all the hot stories floating around in her head.
Jessica loves to travel and travel often! She shares her love of travel with her husband and children. She’s a huge sports fan, especially football. She loves the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Ohio State Buckeyes! She’s a wine-making (and wine-tasting) aficionado. She loves all music. And nothing is better than sunset at the beach! In the journey of life, she also married a wonderful man and had three beautiful (and sometimes crazy) children. Life is always an adventure! Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Naked Truth
By: M.D. Saperstein Released April 18, 2016 Self Published
Violet
I knew at a very young age that I wasn't normal. I may look normal. I may act normal. But I am not normal, not in the head at least. Wait, that sounds bad. When I started kindergarten, I was able to pick out all 50 states on a map. By first grade, I knew all of the names of all of the students and teachers in my entire school. My dad and I always watched football on TV together. When I turned seven, he took me to my first Miami Dolphins game. I started calling the plays even before they were made. And by the time I was 10, I could tell you what happened on any day of my life without thought. I had total recall, no hesitation, no conscious thought. I’m not autistic. I’m not a savant or a genius. It’s more than a case of photographic memory. In fact, I don’t memorize anything. I have Hyperthymesia. Plain and simple: If I live it, hear it, or see it – I remember it. No exceptions. Pike I knew at a very young age that I wanted to be a cop. Not just any cop, but a detective. Chasing bad guys and taking down mobsters. But like my good buddy, Mick, says, “You can’t always get want you want.” So instead of arresting criminals and keeping the streets safe, I am dancing in a dingy club, making a living shaking my ass and pulling dollar bills out of my crack. Not the life I grew up wanting to lead. Not what I expected or hoped for myself. But maybe if I wait it out. If I hang tight, it will all be worth it in the end. I will get what I came for and move on. I will earn my future and pave my own way. What is that he says? “If you try sometimes…you get what you need.” From your lips to God’s ears, Mick. **STANDALONE. No Cliffhanger! Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is recommended for readers over the age of 18.**
I turn to get into my car and I can feel Jordan at my back. He’s so close, I can feel his body heat. It’s clear that he doesn’t want this night to end as much as I don’t. I’m dying for him to kiss me dirty, but I know when the time is right it’s going to be magical. I slide into the driver’s seat and he leans in for one last kiss. This time on my cheek. He’s getting closer! He stands back up and starts to back away, hands in surrender.
“You better go before I lose control. I’m barely holding on here, Violet.” I smile. Just his admission is enough. But then I see his hand trying to discreetly adjust himself, and now I know my earlier thoughts were correct. I’m scandalized and pleased at the same time. Knowing - seeing proof - that he is turned on because of me, lights my body on fire, and my panties are suddenly very wet. “Goo…Good night!” I say one last time, stumbling over my words and too embarrassed by my body’s reaction to make eye contact. I really need to go before I do or say something stupid. “Soon, sweetheart,” is the last thing I hear from his lips, and I spend the night wondering what exactly he is promising.
Hi! My name is M.D. Saperstein. I am currently a stay at home mom with my two gorgeous kids. I wasn't always a full time mom, though. After graduating from the University of Florida - Go Gators! - I attended law school at Stetson University. I spent the next 10 years practicing law. I also spent some time counseling mental health patients in an outpatient psychiatric hospital. But, until having my own children, my most rewarding job by far was licensing families to receive abused and neglected foster children.
So, that brings us to today. In my spare time, while my children were napping, I started editing novels for other authors. The more I edited, the more ready I felt to write my own. I just needed a new and exciting story line. Once Hey There, Delilah was conceived, the ball starting rolling very quickly. I hooked up with fellow author Andria Large, and we decided to tackle it together. Best decision ever! I spend most of my free time with my husband and children. But when I get some "me" time, I love to read. Mostly romance and erotica, but I don't discriminate - a good book is a good book, no matter the genre. Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads | Instagram |