One night. Two SEAL brothers. Endless sexy possibilities!
All Out by Tawny Weber Navy SEAL Zane Bennett can't walk away from a challenge. He's determined to win a bet with his brother--until he collides with the luscious Vivian Harris. Their attraction is immediate and searingly hot, but Zane can't bring himself to bow out of the bet. Now the game is really on...and Zane is embroiled in a wicked matchup he can't resist! All In by Beth Andrews Of the Bad Boy Bennett twins, Navy SEAL Xander is always the gentleman. That is, until he's challenged to go against his brother for a date with Quinn Oswald--the girl Xander's wanted since high school! It takes only one kiss for Quinn and Xander's deliciously sexy chemistry to explode. But how much is Xander willing to gamble...before he goes all in?
Alluring and sexy threat in form of two novellas telling the stories of the Bad Boy Bennett twins falling in lust, like, and love while on a leave at home to attend the ten-year high school reunion.
The co-operation between the stories was done in a stellar way. Each conversation and event that is overlapping is cleverly done, told from the opposite point of view, and yet getting the same feels about the characters, the events, and the feelings roaming in the air. I liked the brothers Zane and Xander. Even though their competitive nature allows then to participate in the rather immature competitions and challenges, the stories do show how they have matured and grown during their time in the SEALs. The ladies they fall for are the perfect partners for the brothers, their life situations making it feasible to see a future for them. Both of the stories are scorching hot yet rather sweet and adorable at the same time. The little sister of a friend and high school crush storylines focus mainly on the growing attraction and feelings with a little dash of angst and emotional upheaval. Greatly entertaining, delightfully enticing, and deliciously irresistible summer stories that surely will keep you warm if the weather is not co-operating with the calendar! ~ Four Spoons!
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Betrayed by his fiancée and his best friend, Chase Garrett heads out on the road with the American Extreme Bull Riders Association, determined to ride hard and keep a wall around his heart.
But during a competition, three-year-old Riley Barrett bursts through that barrier when he throws himself into Chase’s arms, insisting Chase is his daddy. And Chase’s walls collapse further when he meets Riley’s mother–beautiful, vulnerable, sexy Maddy. A widow for only a year, Maddy Barrett is stunned by her son Riley’s outlandish assertion that Chase is his father. She tries desperately to convince Riley that his father has not come home to them. When Chase and Maddy join forces to help her son, she finds herself falling fast for the sexy, hard-working bull rider—wishing he truly could be the man for Riley, and the man for her.
I adored this story, I simply loved it. I guess you just give me big-hearted cowboys and little boys who idolize them and women who swoon over them and I am sold, sealed and delivered. Well, it wasn't quite that simple deal actually, because the author weaved a tale that touched the emotions, from tears to smiles to laughing out loud and swooning, head over heels falling for the characters and feeling their emotions.
From the very start, in the prologue, the feelings start to rumble and I was immediately drawn to Chase Garrett, feeling his pain and cheering him on to a better and brighter future. And then the first chapter just broke my heart because of the little Riley. The fear was palpable, the tension is high, the confusion tangible in the air. And the intensity of the beginning holds through the tale. Every single emotion is underlined and felt deeply. Yet the story is not all angst, drama, and family troubles. There are moments of joy, passion, humor, and charm. There are conflicts that are real and reasonable, but there are also adoration and attraction, love and passion, an unwavering family bond, and the love between a man and a son-of-heart. This was a story that I ended up inhaling in one sitting. The intensity, depth, and vigor held my interest and I could not think to put it down until the very end. A lovely story, indeed! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
THE PERFECT CANDIDATE
Single mom and aspiring perfectionist Becca Johnston is determined to be the next mayor of Cupid's Bow, Texas. She can't afford distractions like her new tenant, rugged rodeo champ Sawyer McCall. Having a good man around the house means so much to her young son, and Becca is definitely enjoying the handsome cowboy's attention. But the election is too important to risk scandalous town gossip. Sawyer only planned on staying in Cupid's Bow long enough to help with the upcoming centennial celebration, but with Becca and her son, he's finally found home. When she treats him like he's a dirty little secret, hiding him from her voters and her son, Sawyer is crushed. How can he convince her that love is the one thing she can't control?
Oh, what a fun and sweet story, that had me smiling like a loon. A true feel-good tale from a small town including a hot cowboy, family drama, political aspirations, and romance that will knock your socks off!
Becca Johnston, the town's favorite OCD control-freak has a lot on her plate. A single mom with no help from her disappeared ex, she is trying to juggle all the 'normal stress', added a few extra things, like running for the small town mayor and organizing town events. She is an alpha female who loves, or needs, to be in charge. And I admired her spunk, her energy, her drive, and laughed about the OCD, because, hey, that's adorable! She learns to laugh at her own quirks as well, she doesn't take herself too seriously and can be flexible when needed. And Sawyer McCall surely had her number. They got each other, Sawyer and Becca. From the first moment, their eyes met, the connection and attraction were there. But there was more than that to it. They sincerely liked each other, had each other's backs, and most importantly, they understood the other. Sawyer and Becca's son bonded as well, and the little yet dynamic unit was born. The friendship and trust came solid and fast, while the passion and attraction were burning hot. A charmingly cute and delightfully sexy story where two alphas meet and mate. It is fun and entertaining, the feelings are running deep, the conflict between them is not earth shattering or something that can't be fixed, I laughed, and smiled and hooted out loud at the end because of the cute twist. A perfect summer read for all cowboy loving readers! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Camouflage
by Kathleen Maree
Genre: Romantic Suspense
On the surface, Giselle Duzido could be called many things.
Sassy, determined and breathtakingly beautiful.
But one thing that would never come to tongue, is broken and fragile; because she’s learned to keep that part of herself locked up tight. The veneer she chooses you to see - has it all. Her designer brand is on the rise from her original base in Sydney, to two more stores in Los Angeles and New York; a part of a world she has always fit into seamlessly.
Career-wise? She’s flourishing. Social status? Almost famous!
But scratch just beneath her surface and there it is, eating away at her insides. But at some point, doesn't Sel deserve to have the happily ever after?
She may look just like another twenty-something woman, searching for that earth-shattering love…
But it's all just a camouflage.
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From the earliest age I was a born storyteller. Ask my parents and they will tell you I had a gift for making a simple event seem like an elaborate one. Purposely? No. Innocently? Yes. It was my imaginary world that initially led me to believe I wanted to be an actor. All of that role playing and living in fantasy... it was an obvious direction for me. However, becoming quite uncomfortable with the limelight quickly saw that dream diminish. Over the years I turned my world of fantasy into stories, and eventually began writing them down. Before I knew it, 'Cut' had been completed. When I am not busy writing my next story, I am a working mum, housewife and sometimes hockey wag :) In other words, probably some kind of circus act who specialises in juggling ;) I hope you enjoy my blog, where I will be posting thoughts, other books I am currently reading and even sneak peeks of my novels. I encourage any feedback, comments or direct messages via my contact page should anyone wish to get in touch. I am so thrilled to be sharing my journey and hope you enjoy my stories as much as I enjoy writing them. Dream often. Believe always.
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A four man unit brushes up against Mason and his 'Keepers' unit. Sparks fly from the beginning as not one of the men are looking for romance. But there's no choice - cupid has a soft spot for SEALS and he's lined his sights up on Devlin next. :) The right place at the right time… or the very wrong place… As part of a group helping to training Iraq soldiers, Devin is doing additional training on how to use the latest drones. But when a murder is committed on the base and suspicion is thrown on the drone’s designer, he can’t stop himself from helping her. When they return stateside, another employee in the same company is murdered. Once again suspicion falls on the designer. And as tension climbs, Devin wonders who will be next… Bristol didn’t want to take her latest drone models to Iraq, but she was behind schedule and her bosses were pushing. Then disaster strikes, and she’s the one everyone blames. She loses her research and her best friend, and now she’s determined to find out who did this… no matter how dangerous it is. The killer isn’t done. He got what he wanted but there’s more that he needs… and he’ll kill to get it. After all, it wouldn’t be the first time…
Dale Mayer is a prolific multi-published writer. She’s best known for her Psychic Vision Series. Besides her romantic suspense/thrillers, Dale also writes paranormal romance and crossover young adult books in different genres.
To go with her fiction, she writes nonfiction in many different fields with books available on resume writing, companion gardening and the US mortgage system. She has recently published her Career Essentials Series . All her books are available in print and digital format. Connect with her at http://dalemayer.com or on social media at:
Monday, May 1
Book featured at I'm Shelf-ish Tuesday, May 2 Book featured at A Title Wave Wednesday, May 3 Book featured at My Life One Story at a Time Book featured at Nicole's Book Musings Thursday, May 4 Book featured at Eskiemama Reads and Dragon Lady Reads Friday, May 5 Book reviewed at Babs Book Bistro Monday, May 8 Book featured at Warrior Woman Winmill Tuesday, May 9 Book reviewed at A Fold in the Spine Wednesday, May 10 Book reviewed at The Book Junkie Reads Thursday, May 11 Book reviewed at Bibliophile Ramblings Book featured at Yah Gotta Read This Friday, May 12 Book featured at Books and Spoons
ESCAPE CLAWS
by Linda Reilly
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Pub Date: 12/26/17
Here, killer, killer, killer . . .
For the first time in sixteen years, Lara Caphart has returned to her hometown of Whisker Jog, New Hampshire. She wants to reconnect with her estranged Aunt Fran, who’s having some difficulty looking after herself—and her eleven cats. Taking care of a clowder of kitties is easy, but keeping Fran from being harassed by local bully Theo Barnes is hard. The wealthy builder has his sights set on Fran’s property, and is determined to make her an offer she doesn’t dare refuse.
Then Lara spots a blue-eyed ragdoll cat that she swears is the reincarnation of her beloved Blue, her childhood pet. Pursuing the feline to the edge of Fran’s yard, she stumbles upon the body of Theo Barnes, clearly a victim of foul play. To get her and Fran off the suspect list, Lara finds herself following the cat’s clues in search of a killer. Is Blue’s ghost really trying to help her solve a murder, or has Lara inhaled too much catnip?
Raised in a sleepy town in the Berkshires, Linda Reilly has spent the bulk of her career in the field of real estate closings and title examination. It wasn’t until 1995 that her first short mystery, “Out of Luck,” was accepted for publication by Woman’s World Magazine. Since then she’s had more than forty short stories published, including a sprinkling of romances. She is also the author of Some Enchanted Murder, and the Deep Fried Mystery series, featuring fry cook Talia Marby. Linda lives in New Hampshire with her husband, who affectionately calls her “Nose in a book.” Visit her on the web at lindasreilly.com.
Meet the men of Manning Grove, three small-town cops and brothers, who meet the women who will change the rest of their lives. This is Matt’s story…
As a former Marine, Matt Bryson has dealt with PTSD ever since coming home from the Middle East. He finds himself fortunate to be able to return to his job as a cop at the local police department with his brothers Max and Marc. Dr. Carly Stephens works hard as an obstetrician at the local hospital, struggling to pay off her medical school loans, financially support her elderly parents, and save money to adopt a baby. Unable to have children, she still longs for one of her very own. Instantly attracted to the Dictator Doctor, Matt finds Carly easily brings him to his knees both emotionally and physically. What starts out only as a convenient sexual relationship turns into a whole lot more when dealing with their pasts and their future. Especially since Matt doesn’t ever want children. Matt and Carly find themselves on a passionate and emotional journey that can either bring them together or rip them apart. Note: This book can be read as a stand-alone and has an HEA ending. Due to the sensual and explicit sexual nature of the story, it is intended only for readers 18+. Trigger warning: this book includes a main character who is dealing with PTSD.
This was a new author to me, and I jumped into the last book in the series, but that didn't take away anything from the enjoyment of the story, it truly is a standalone novel.
I enjoyed Matt and Carly together. They connected immediately, the chemistry was hot, and Carly seemed to understand the needs, fears, and desires Matt had and suffered from because of the PSTD. Matt Bryson was lost inside his head with the memories from the war. His mind was playing tricks and the symptoms were getting worse. I liked him as a character, his humbleness, his desire to help and serve, his need to do the right thing, I could not help but admire him. Matt living through the episodes with the PSTD were realistic, intense, and scary. The emotions were high, and my heart was breaking for him and his pain. Dr. Carly Stephens was also admirable character. She works hard, trying to help her parents, and she only hopes for one thing: to be a mom one day. She had deep wounds in her soul, brokenness, not even time could heal. The Bryson family is abrasive and crazy when dealing with each other. At first, it was humorous, but it got old rather fast. The language in the story is rough and even though there is obvious bond and caring between the family members, the way they show it and communicate is scratchy. But that was obviously done on purpose, and maybe just the style the author was aiming for, as the writing was done with the same tone. Despite the focus on the physical relationship between Matt and Carly, the raw emotions between them, the understanding of each other's wounds and hurt, the bond between them was touching and poignant, winning my heart. I was offered the book to read as a contemporary romance story, but I would categorize this as erotica. The rather easy solutions to the devastating problems and pain the protagonist carry indicate that the physical aspects of the relationship were in the spotlight. Undeterred by the biting and raw writing style, this story had a potential to be much more, if not some too easy solutions and choices with the development of the relationship between Matt and Carly. A great story with deep emotions, an abundance of passion, and scorching heat. ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Betting the Bad Boy
Behind the Bar #3 By: Stefanie London Releasing May 8, 2017 Entangled Lovestruck
Self-confessed perfectionist Paige Thomas isn’t used to failing. But when a critical error in romantic judgment sends all her big city career dreams crashing down, she scrambles to find a job--any job—to make ends meet.
Noah Reid may as well have “trust issues” tattooed on his forehead. Being raised in the foster system didn’t give him a positive outlook on relationships, but now he’s looking after his best friend’s bar for one month, and he can’t do it alone. Things get steamy when Noah hires Paige, but she’s determined not to repeat her mistakes and she bets Noah that she can keep her hands to herself while they’re working together. Too bad for her, Noah is an expert at breaking the rules…
She held the blindfold while trying to ignore the flutter of excitement in her stomach. Her fingers toyed with the elasticated band meant to hold the mask in place.
“Both partners are going to get a turn at being blindfolded,” Libby said from the front of the room. “Between yourselves, pick who’s going to go first.” Noah looked down at her, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He ran a hand along his jaw, catching the reddish-gold bristles of his burgeoning beard. For a moment, Paige was totally captured with the idea of how the bristles might feel on her skin. Would they be smooth or rough? Would she shriek if he brushed them along her inner thigh? “What do you say, new girl?” He cocked his head. “Would you rather do the blindfolding or be blindfolded?” At that point she would have been happy to go all in— blindfolded, tied up, and held down. Holy crap, would you listen to yourself? This is a work function, not a goddamn re-creation of Fifty Shades. “Blindfolded,” she squeaked, thrusting the mask into his hands and spinning so quickly that she almost lost her footing. “You know, I’ve never done this before.” His hand steadied her, the reassuring warmth of his touch seeping into her skin. Her bones felt like jelly. “Blindfolded someone?” she asked, cringing at how shaky her voice sounded. “Ah, no. I meant the taste test.” He chuckled as he slipped the mask over her eyes. Heat rushed up to Paige’s cheeks. Of course he meant the taste test. What an idiot she was. Just because her brain was earning an R-rating tonight didn’t mean his was, too. She fought back a tremor as he brushed some loose hairs from her neck so he could adjust the strap on the mask. Everything went dark, and Paige gripped the edge of the table for support. Warm breath whispered over her ear, and she could tell he’d leaned in a little closer. The scent of coffee and faded cologne tempted her to turn her head toward the source. “I’ve definitely blindfolded someone before, but it wasn’t for a taste test.” Her breath hitched, and she was grateful that she’d had the presence of mind to hold on to something. “Oh.” He chuckled. “Yeah, that’s what she said.” Holy. Freaking. Shit.
Stefanie London is the USA Today bestselling author of over ten contemporary romances with humour, heat and heart. Growing up, Stefanie came from a family of women who loved to read. Thus, it was no surprise Stefanie was the sort of student who would read her English books before the semester started. After sneaking several literature subjects into her ‘very practical’ Business degree, she got a job in Communications. When writing emails and newsletters didn’t fulfil her creative urges, she turned to fiction and was finally able to write the stories that kept her mind busy at night.
Originally from Australia, she now lives in Toronto with her very own hero and is currently in the process of doing her best to travel the world. She frequently indulges in her passions for good coffee, lipstick, romance novels and zombie movies. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
A CORNER IN GLORY LAND
by Janie DeVos
Genre: Fiction, Historical Fiction
Pub Date: 12/19/17
In turn-of-the-century Florida, a family comes of age, and a daughter finds her destiny entwined with a land as full of promise as it is danger.
The steamy, sweltering banks of Florida’s Ocklawaha River don’t look much like Glory Land to young Eve Stewart, despite her father’s proclamation. But it’s here that Eve, her three siblings, and their parents will settle in July, 1875. Within a few years, Eve’s father, Hap, has made good on his assurances. They have a large, weathered clapboard house and a comfortable life, thanks to Hap’s job on a steamboat.
Eve and her twin sister, Ivy, are blossoming into young women. Yet as Ivy grows more involved in medicine making under the tutelage of a neighboring black woman, her path leads away from the family.
Eve, an aspiring writer, loves her home though she longs to see the wider world beyond its swamps and shores. But when she discovers a secret Ivy’s been keeping, Eve must decide between protecting the family name or saving her sister. With the help of a half-Creek Indian tracker, Max Harjo, Eve sets out to find Ivy, beginning a journey that will dare her to follow her ambitions and her passion wherever they lead.
Janie DeVos is a native of Coral Gables, Florida. She attended Florida State University, then worked in the advertising industry for over a decade, including radio, cable television, public relations and advertising firms. Though her career changed over the years, one thing didn’t—her love of writing. She is an award-winning children's author. Beneath a Thousand Apple Trees is her adult debut. Learn more at janiedevos.com.
The Magnate's Marriage Merger
The McNeill Magnates #2 By: Joanne Rock Releasing May 9, 2017 Harlequin Desire
The matchmaker meets her match…in one very persistent tycoon!
Secretive matchmaker to the rich and famous, Lydia Whitney prefers to stay behind the scenes. But after one mistake, rich resort developer Ian McNeill is hot on her trail, and he’s more attractive—and persistent—than ever before. Ian can’t believe it when he figures out who’s messing with his family: a woman who has deceived—and seduced—him before. What’s her agenda? And why can’t he resist her? He’ll get the answers to all his questions, if Lydia agrees to his convenient marriage proposal. But once she’s in his arms again, will he let her go?
I really enjoy Joanne Rock's writing style and her voice as she tells the story. The tales flow fluently off the pages, there are emotional tension and the jitters of falling in love, the passion is scorching hot, and even the billionaires and magnates have human faults and weaknesses they have to overcome to be able to find their happily forever after.
Ian McNeill, the peacemaker of the brothers, found out that the matchmaker causing trouble to their family is his former lover, a hot fling that ended too soon with hurt and heartbreak. I liked Ian, he was controlling yet there was gentleness in him. He was fair, protective, and able to admit his mistakes. He had charm and charisma that draw me in and Lydia Whitney, as well, obviously. Lydia was headstrong and had learned the hard way that she had to survive on her own and watch her back constantly. She tends to see more of the problems than solutions, she is cautious to trust or rely on others. To solve their current problems with family, inheritance, and press, they make a twelve-month pack for marriage. He will protect her from a lawsuit, lets her use his name for her business enhancement, and to use his contacts to make money for her charity. He will fulfill his grandfather's will's conditions by being married for a year. But the old desires and feelings emerge and soon nothing feels or seems fake or pretend. They have the allure, the attraction, and interest, there are passion and deep feelings taking root, but there is also a failure to communicate, to have faith in them as a couple, and confidence in the future of their relationship. Delightfully angsty with stormy feelings and lots of lust and adoration. The physical attraction is backed with devotion and warmth, the old hurts are healed with compassion and affection. A fun and touching read at the same time! ~ Four Spoons
She was a woman of habit and that would serve him well now. He hoped. He remembered how much she had enjoyed swimming first thing in the morning when they were working together in the islands of Tahiti. He’d accused her of being a mermaid with her daily need to return to the sea, but even when he’d been bleary-eyed from working late the night before, he never missed a chance to swim with her. For safety purposes, he’d told her, and not just because he enjoyed the occasional chance to slide a hand beneath her bikini top or wind the wet rope of her hair around his hand and angle her sea-salty lips for his kiss.
When the elevator sounded its dull chime, he slowly looked up. The doors opened and Lydia strode into view. His gaze fell on her long, shapely legs, the hem of her black mesh tunic revealing a hint of thigh. “Ian?” Her voice tugged his attention higher, pulling his focus to her green eyes and creamy skin devoid of makeup. With her hair scraped back into a ponytail, she looked every inch the part of his earthy, warmhearted lover from last summer. He had to remember that she hadn’t been the woman he thought, that he’d been wrong about her, or he might have swept her up into his arms and ridden the elevator back up to her hotel room to remind her how good they were together in at least one respect. Sex. Raw, sensual, mind-blowing sex. His pulse ramped up at the steamy memories, so much so that he had to shut down those thoughts and focus on the present or his plan would be doomed before he even started. “Hope you don’t mind if I join you.” Ian tucked his phone back into the pocket of the cargo shorts he’d slid on over his swim trunks. She halted in front of him abruptly. Then, eyes sliding to the desk attendant, she stepped closer. Probably she did it to minimize the chance of being overheard. Ian liked the opportunity to breathe in the scent of her—the lavender fragrance of the detergent she washed her clothes in and a subtle perfume more complex than that. “What on earth are you doing here?” She glanced over her shoulder. “You realize most of the consultants working on the Foxfire are staying in this hotel? What will they say if someone sees us together at this hour?” “They’ll think we had a whole lot more fun last night than they did.” Last night, he’d paced the floor of his penthouse suite for far too long, thinking through every aspect of a contract marriage and what details he should include in the paperwork. In the end, she would sign. But she wasn’t going to like him forcing her hand, and that bothered him more than it should have. “And that doesn’t concern you? I happen to enjoy a hard-earned reputation as a professional.” Her clipped words and the high color in her cheeks told him he’d gotten under her skin in record time. “If you don’t want anyone to see us together, we might as well hit the beach. Take refuge in the water.” His hand itched to touch her. To rest on the small of her back and steer her out the door, across the street and onto the soft sand. But he had to be careful not to push or she could dig her heels in about his suggestion and delay the whole thing. Now that he’d made up his mind and seen the benefits of a union between the two of them, he couldn’t think of one damn reason why he should delay. After narrowing her green eyes at him for an instant, she pivoted on her wedge sandals and strode toward the exit. He caught up to her in two long steps, holding the door wide for her before as they headed out onto Ocean Drive, which was strangely quiet in the predawn dark. There were more joggers on the beach than bathers; a few runners kicked up sand as they pounded past them. “It’ll be quieter down here.” He pointed out a stretch of the shore where no beach loungers had been set up yet, a spot free from any hotel guests. In fact, he’d claimed the location for them earlier when he’d ordered a cabana and sunrise breakfast. Lydia apparently didn’t notice his preparations, however, instead appearing too absorbed in her frustrated march toward the water, her feet churning through the sand at breakneck pace. The horizon was starting to smudge from inky black to purple as she reached the shoreline and kicked off her shoes. Then she yanked the black mesh cover-up off and over her head. Mesmerized by her silhouette as his eyes adjusted to the light, Ian watched as she ran into the surf and made a shallow dive under an oncoming wave… She was a woman of habit and that would serve him well now. He hoped. He remembered how much she had enjoyed swimming first thing in the morning when they were working together in the islands of Tahiti. He’d accused her of being a mermaid with her daily need to return to the sea, but even when he’d been bleary-eyed from working late the night before, he never missed a chance to swim with her. For safety purposes, he’d told her, and not just because he enjoyed the occasional chance to slide a hand beneath her bikini top or wind the wet rope of her hair around his hand and angle her sea-salty lips for his kiss.
Four-time RITA nominee Joanne Rock has never met a romance sub-genre she didn't like. The author of over eighty books enjoys writing a wide range of stories, most recently focusing on sexy contemporaries and small town family sagas. An optimist by nature and perpetual seeker of silver linings, Joanne finds romance fits her life outlook perfectly--love is worth fighting for. A frequent speaker at regional and national writing conferences she enjoys giving back to the writing community that nurtured and inspired her early career. She has a Masters degree in Literature from the University of Louisville but credits her fiction writing skills to her intensive study with friend and fellow author Catherine Mann. 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
Rafflecopter Giveaway (Prize 1: a Lily Pulitzer weekly calendar, makeup bag, scented soap, nail polish set and romance by Maisey Yates and Joanne Rock ( 1 winner - US Only). And Prize 2: $10 Amazon GC and digital download of The Magnate’s Mail -Order Bride by Joanne Rock (1 winner, open INTL))
BENEATH THE NIGHT
by Jen Colly
Pub date: 4/25/2017
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Sometimes survival means surrendering everything . . .
Lord Navarre Casteel wakes from a long sleep to find the vampire city he rules forever changed and his future in the hands of a mysterious beauty who offers her life for his. Fiery-haired Cat survives his feeding, fueling Navarre’s body and mind—as well as his suspicion that she is one of the Forbidden—a lethal mix of vampire and human blood. Yet that doesn’t stop the throb of Navarre’s desire, the feeling that she is destined to be his mate, to hell with consequences. . . .
A solitary fighter sworn to protect the children in her charge, Cat never expects to feel so much for Navarre in the face of his savage feeding. Which is why his offer of protection is nearly her undoing. For how can she let down her guard when she has always walked alone? But Cat has never faced an enemy like the one she faces now, never felt such a powerful need to surrender to the force of love . . .
Chapter 1
Peace. He didn’t care for the word, didn’t believe in its existence. The concept seemed possible, and certainly desired, but he’d yet to witness it in his own life. Even when Balinese had been under Lord Navarre’s rule, the city prospering and harmonious, Devlin Savard had not been at peace. Savard glanced over his shoulder for the second time tonight. Something had him on edge. He scanned the tree line at his back. Nothing. From where he stood, high on a hillside, the impressive château below him seemed somehow benign. Yet it concealed the entrance to Balinese, a vast underground city of vampires. The forest surrounding the château took it a step further, cloaking the stone structure from any who might wander near. Winter was well on the way, and though snow had yet to fall, it would come soon enough. The château had been sealed and prepped months ago, and only in the last few weeks had the chill of the night permeated the ground and seeped into the city below. Savard cocked his head slightly. A low ripple of energy in the air sent his senses on high alert, rousing survival instincts that had refused to fade over time. Someone, or something, approached. He curled his fingers around the hilt of his sword, but then the shift in energy became substantial and settled at his right side. Heavy, like waves on the ocean. Then, though the air around him was already cold, a chilled patch of air pushed toward him. “Report,” Savard commanded. Keir dropped out of his invisible Spirit form and appeared at Savard’s right. “You’re damn hard to sneak up on,” Keir said, and then suddenly thinking better of his words, he raised his hands in mock surrender. “Not that I was sneaking.” Savard nodded, but said nothing. It was best others didn’t know how Savard’s talents worked, especially when he knew of no other who possessed a similar gift. In Spirit, Keir moved with a certain high-energy fluidity, something Savard had yet to encounter in another vampire, and was easily recognizable. Finally glancing at the man who had joined him, Savard asked, “What did you find?” “Nothing,” Keir said, supremely confident in his own abilities. Savard simply nodded. “I give you the same answer every night. Seven years of nothing. You’re not paying me to say ‘nothing’ to you every night.” Keir scratched his chin, the goatee darkening his already sinister look. “You bought my loyalty.” “Have I?” Keir cracked a grin. “Yeah, you have.” “Perhaps.” Savard looked over his shoulder, once again peering deep into the forest, but still finding nothing amiss. “One day your answer will change.” “And when it does?” “Then everything will change,” Savard said, his tone even, expectant. Savard would have been a fool to not at least attempt to buy Keir’s loyalty, and so far it had paid off. The man was an ace in his pocket. While Savard’s own ability to travel in Spirit was extensive, Keir’s was unsurpassed.
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Jen Colly is the rare case of an author who rebelled against reading assignments throughout her school years. Now she prefers reading books in a series, which has led her to writing her first paranormal romance series: The Cities Below. She will write about anything that catches her fancy, though truth be told, her weaknesses are pirates and vampires. She lives in Ohio with her supportive husband, two kids, one big fluffy dog, and four rescued cats.
White Water Passion
by Dawn Luedecke
Genre: Historical Romance, Western
Release Date: November 14, 2017
The Montana Territory is one of the last outposts of the American West—where adventure as grand as the wide-open plains is around every corner, and passion as wild as the land itself beats in every heart . . .
Elizabeth Sanders isn’t afraid of anything, except what will happen to her beloved town if the Big Mountain Lumber Mill is destroyed. When she overhears a plot to do just that, she vows to put a stop to it, even if it means dressing as a young lumberjack to expose the saboteur. There’s only one problem with her plan—her brother’s handsome friend and fellow logger Garrett Jones, who arouses a desire within her soul as fierce as the river rapids.
When Garrett discovers that the odd new lad on the crew is in fact Beth, he’s shocked. A logging camp is no place for a young woman—especially the spirited beauty he’s admired for so long. Keeping her safe is easier said than done, however, as the attraction between them flares into true passion. As the danger mounts, Beth and Garrett must work together to survive the last log run down the wild rapids and claim any chance of saving the mill—and their chance at a future . . .
A country girl born and bred, Dawn Luedecke has spent most of her life surrounded by horses, country folk, and the wild terrain of Nevada, Idaho and Montana. She enjoys writing historical and contemporary romance and spends as much time as she can working on her current manuscript. For more information visit dawnluedeckebooks.com.
We are thrilled to share the gorgeous, brand new look for Lexxie Couper's amazing Heart of Fame series! To celebrate, we're sharing all of the details, plus an exclusive peek into the feature song, Whispers in the Night! Lexxie is not only sharing the lyrics with us today, but she's even singing it for us! (Talk about brave, right?!) Get to know the Heart of Fame titles and enjoy Lexxie's video below! About LOVE'S RHYTHM:Lauren is the one that got away. Lured by the promise of fame, Nick Blackthorne turned his back on the possibility of a regular life and love to focus on his career. No one would ever guess kindergarten teacher Lauren Robbins was once involved with the lead singer of a rock band. Their romance was the stuff of love songs, and it took her fifteen years to get over him. When Nick turns up at her door, the heartbreak and years fall away, but not everything can be erased with apologies and soul-shattering passion.*** About MUSCLE FOR HIRE:Former SAS commando and personal bodyguard, Aslin Rhodes is a now a military consultant on a movie, where an American martial arts expert no taller than his chin promptly puts him on his arse. Rowan Hemsworth is determined to protect herself and those she loves, but nothing prepared her for the British mountain of muscle who makes her knees go uncharacteristically weak.When Aslin becomes convinced that Rowan—and not her celebrity brother—is the target, things get tricky. Rowan doesn’t believe she needs his protection, and keeping her close becomes his top priority. And there’s nowhere closer than right in his arms. *** About GUARDED DESIRES:Chris Huntley is on the fast track to becoming the next big action star and thinks he’s ready for anything. He’s never been attracted to a man before, but his new bodyguard, Liev Reynolds, is not any regular man. Liev is comfortable with his bisexuality, but his attraction to Chris is anything but comfortable. His professional ethics as a bodyguard means he can’t act on the attraction. There’s also the long trail of broken-hearted women Chris has left in his wake… Being up close and personal makes things difficult, and this happy ever after is going to be hard-won.*** About STEADY BEAT:Keeping the beat with a pair of drumsticks helps Noah focus. Without that focus, his ADHD makes life a little chaotic. Peppa has the voice of an angel. If only she didn’t have pesky stage fright and the distracting off-the-charts chemistry with the drummer of the band she’s auditioning for. With Peppa in his arms, Noah finds a strange kind of serenity, but when his wild past catches up with him, he could lose it all, including the smoky-voiced angel he’s falling for—the one woman who keeps his mind and his heart staying on rhythm.*** About LEAD ME ON:Samuel Gibson has been called brooding, arrogant, and narcissistic. He’s never wanted anyone to think anything different, until he meets prickly Lily Pearce and starts to wonder if it’s time to correct some of the misconceptions trailing behind him. After watching her brother ruined by the world of rock and roll, Lily has no love for the music scene or anyone in it. So her unwanted attraction to the personification of everything she hates about that lifestyle—Samuel Gibson—drives her crazy. But glimpses of the Sam beneath the reputation make her start to wonder if there’s more to the man.*** About BLAME IT ON THE BASS:Corbin Smith knows he needs to do something drastic to help his partner out of the grief he’s been lost to. Witnessing the chemistry still present between Levi and his old high school flame, Corbin is surprised by a jolt of arousal and the beginning of an idea. Nothing unsettles Sonja Stone, not even her body’s powerful reaction to Levi after all these years. But when Levi’s lover approaches them, eyes smoldering with hunger, his suggestion shakes Sonja to the core. Their union is explosively perfect, but something is holding Levi back from sealing their emotional connection.*** About GETTING PLAYED:Natalie Thorton doesn’t have room in her schedule for relationships. She knows everyone who’s anyone in Australia’s music industry, which is why Jaxon Campbell is sure she can help his band find a perfect new lead singer. Trouble is, the last time he saw her, he broke her heart. Natalie doesn’t want to feel anything when Jaxon strides into her office after all these years, but she does. And if he’s going to ask something from her, well, she wants something from him. Orgasms. Lots of them. How can Jax say no? But just who’s playing who?*** About BLACKTHORNE:Josh Blackthorne never planned to follow in his father’s rock-star footsteps. But music is in his genes, and he was born into this world of fame. Finding someone who isn’t fazed by all that is unique, but the novelty of being liked by Caitlin Reynolds quickly turns to something more. Josh makes Caitlin laugh, something she hasn’t done in a while. He’s also freaking hot. But as much a she wants to melt into his arms, there’s a ghost hanging over her head—a ghost who turns out to be not-so-legally dead after all…*** And now for what we've all been waiting for! Sit back and enjoy the fabulous Lexxie Couper, singing her very own original song, Whispers in the Night! Lyrics: “There’s something so very broken Inside my soul And only you can mend it, but you’re not mine any more.
This life of mine is empty Since I walked away Taking paths I haven’t seen Looking for roads I’ve left behind Searching for an answer That was always there Needing to feel something Beyond this pain.
And I want to beg but I can’t find the words And I want to cry but I can’t find the tears And all that’s left is the shadow of your heart and the ghost of your smile And the whispers in the night.” Nearly half a million people were killed in the Nazi occupation of Italy during World War II. But among those staggering losses, an incredible number of the most persecuted—some 40,000 Italian Jews—made it out of the war alive. Some survived the death camps. Others evaded arrest. Still others fled, some of them aided by the efforts of everyday Italians who risked their lives to save their fellow countrymen. So many lives and so much sacrifice—and still, so little has been written about what happened in Italy that historians now call it “The Forgotten Front” of WWII. But all that is about to change. Based on the true story of the unlikeliest of heroes, BENEATH A SCARLET SKY is #1 New York Times bestselling author Mark Sullivan’s riveting new tale of extraordinary courage and tragic star-crossed love during the Nazi occupation of Italy. It follows 17-year-old, real-life hero Pino Lella as he helps lead countless Jews out of northern Italy along an underground railroad through the Alps. The saga continues when Pino is then recruited to become a spy for the Italian Resistance. Working undercover as a driver for the head of the Nazi High Command in Italy, Pino gains access to some of the most powerful men in Germany but also witnesses the atrocities of the war firsthand. When he first heard snippets of Pino Lella’s story at a dinner party more than 10 years ago, Mark Sullivan was unable to shake the image of an Italian teenager leading refugees to safety across perilous mountain ridges, and he became determined to tell the tale of this anonymous, unsung hero. For nine years, Sullivan immersed himself in research. When he finally located Pino in Italy, Mark was able to conduct a series of interviews with the now 79-year-old, in which Pino recounted in painstaking detail the most fraught and eventful years of his life. Because of these incredible interviews, BENEATH A SCARLET SKY is more than just a novel based on true events—it is a piece of history, and Pino’s own memories have given this book its realism, its heart, and its shattering sense of loss and tragedy. It is truly a tale unlike any other—a story of courage and intrigue, love and redemption—and one that can finally be shared. At the age of 17, Giuseppe “Pino” Lella helped Jews escape the Nazis in northern Italy, guiding them from a Catholic boys school north of Lake Como, up and over the Alps, and into neutral Switzerland. The following summer, he became a spy inside the German High Command, risking everything to serve the Italian Resistance and suffering mightily for it long after the war ended. BENEATH A SCARLET SKY is the untold story of the most inspiring and heartbreaking years of Pino Lella’s life.
Based on the true story of a forgotten hero during one of history’s darkest hours.
Pino Lella wants nothing to do with the war or the Nazis. He’s a normal Italian teenager—obsessed with music, food, and girls—but his days of innocence are numbered. When his family home in Milan is destroyed by Allied bombs, Pino joins an underground railroad helping Jews escape over the Alps, and falls for Anna, a beautiful widow six years his senior. In an attempt to protect him, Pino’s parents force him to enlist as a German soldier—a move they think will keep him out of combat. But after Pino is injured, he is recruited at the tender age of eighteen to become the personal driver for Adolf Hitler’s left hand in Italy, General Hans Leyers, one of the Third Reich’s most mysterious and powerful commanders. Now, with the opportunity to spy for the Allies inside the German High Command, Pino endures the horrors of the war and the Nazi occupation by fighting in secret, his courage bolstered by his love for Anna and for the life he dreams they will one day share.
A remarkable story of courage, dedication, love, and determination to survive, that left me once again in awe of the quiet heroism that was demonstrated during the direst times in the European history.
As much as I have read about the second World War in Europe and the devastating events that occurred, I hadn't even realized how the Italian viewpoint to the war was often missing. To see the desolation and ruin the war left in Italy itself and to the minds of the Italians, by the eyes of Pino Lella, was an honor and humbling experience. As a story based on real people and true historical events, the author has built a well-organized timeline that was easy to follow. I got lost in the story with the images painted in my mind by the author's words. The feelings are strong, the emotional connection to the tale impossible to ignore. The decisions people had to make during the war were not black and white, you had to do what was needed to survive. Reading Pino Lella's story was like watching the hand of destiny, or God, work in every step he took during the war. If you have ever looked into the eyes of a person who witnessed the atrocity of the war, you might get a hint of the pain those people have to live with. Here we get a rare and raw look at the destruction the WWII left behind. As I was reading the story hours went by that I wasn't aware of nothing else but Pino's life. The admiration I have for him, and people like him, who fought the insanity by risking their own lives left me in amaze. Yes, the writing was rough at times, and yes, the book could have used a little better editing. Yet the contents of the story and knowing it was based on true events, true heroism, a real terrorizing fear and constant threat to the lives of everyone involved made the technical issues of the story irrelevant. The love Pino had for his family, friends, and especially for Anna was boundless, and it became the force to aid the survival. The meaning of life was to live just a moment longer, to see the loved ones again. The loss, the pain, the tragedy of the war, the guilt of survival and decisions made when life was on the line left a permanent mark on everyone, as the author demonstrates in the completion of the tale. There are things that have happen in our history that we should never forget. Thank you for giving us the story Pino Lella, a young man with a fearless courage and noble spirit, who is an inspiration and example of bravery still needed today. ~ Five Spoons Mark Sullivan is the acclaimed author of eighteen novels, including the #1 New York Times bestselling Private series, which he writes with James Patterson. Mark has received numerous awards for his writing, including the WHSmith Fresh Talent Award, and his works have been named a New York Times Notable Book and a Los Angeles Times Best Book of the Year. He grew up in Medfield, Massachusetts, and graduated from Hamilton College with a B.A. in English before working as a Peace Corps volunteer in Niger, West Africa. Upon his return to the United States, he earned a graduate degree from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and began a career in investigative journalism. An avid skier and adventurer, he lives with his wife in Bozeman, Montana, where he remains grateful for the miracle of every moment.
Bayside Desires
Bayside Summers #1 by: Melissa Foster Releasing May 9, 2017 World Literary Press
As the co-owner of Bayside Resorts, Rick Savage has a fabulous job working with his best friends and brother, and a thriving business in Washington, DC, which he’ll be returning to at the end of the summer. Spending time with his family is great, but being back on Cape Cod has unearthed painful memories. When sweet, smart, and overly cautious Desiree Cleary moves in next door, Rick is drawn to the sexy preschool teacher, and she just might prove to be the perfect distraction.
Running an art gallery was not in preschool teacher Desiree Cleary’s plans, but after being tricked into coming to her impetuous, unreliable mother’s aid, she’s stuck spending the summer with the badass half sister she barely knows and a misbehaving dog. If that’s not frustrating enough, she can’t escape the sparks igniting with her strikingly handsome and pushy neighbor, Rick, who makes all her warning bells go off. Passion ignites as Desiree and Rick spend long summer nights sharing heartfelt confessions and steamy kisses. For the first time in years Rick is enjoying life again instead of hiding behind mounds of work miles away from his family. Desiree has touched him in a way that makes him want to slow down. Only slowing down means dealing with his demons, and he isn’t sure who he’ll be when he comes out the other side. Oh shit. Rick Savage beached his craft, threw his life vest onto the sand, and ran after the woman he’d soaked. He’d been so captivated by the curvaceous blonde that when she’d started to leave, his first instinct had been to stop her. He’d clearly lost his mind. He knew better than to come that close to the jetty or to fishtail near people. “I’m so sorry,” he said, jogging over as she stepped off the rocks and onto the beach. She turned, mouth gaping, strands of wet hair stuck to her cheeks, forehead, and shoulders. The most beautiful green eyes stared back at him in shock and horror. He felt like a total ass. “I’m sorry. I saw you watching me, and—” There was absolutely no excuse for what he’d done, so he went with the truth, no matter how bad it sounded. “I wanted to meet you before you took off.” “I wasn’t watching you.” Her eyes darted around them, as if someone else might hear her lying. He cocked a brow. “Okay, maybe I was for a second. But you were stalking me.” She swiped at her sundress, which clung to her incredibly sexy body like a second skin. He tried not to leer, but damn… Forcing his eyes up, he said, “I wasn’t stalking you—” Her deadpan stare stopped him from telling his own lie. “Okay, fine,” he said with a laugh. “I was. You caught me. I’m sorry.” “Does this usually work for you? Drenching unsuspecting women?” she said with a hint of annoyance, and a smile, as she shook the water from her arms. “Not that I’m an expert on being hit on, but it doesn’t seem like the best way to go about it.” “I’m sure you get hit on all the time, but this wasn’t planned. It was a stupid mistake. It’s actually illegal to go that fast near the jetty, so you can have me arrested if you’d like. I wasn’t thinking. I was—” She arched a brow, a slight smirk playing across her beautiful face as she tossed his mannerism right back at him. He felt himself smiling. Man, this woman was as sweet as she was spunky. “What can I say? If you weren’t so hot…” “So, it’s my fault?” She rolled her eyes. “You really do kind of suck at picking up women.” The caveman in him grunted, and he squared his shoulders. “I don’t suck at it. I’m actually really good at it. A pro. A master. A champion.” She laughed. “Sorry, but…” She waved at her wet clothes. “Evidence proves otherwise.” And I’m about to prove that evidence wrong. “Let me buy you a sweatshirt and something warm to drink at Mac’s so you don’t freeze.” Mac’s was a walk-up restaurant by the Wellfleet Pier, a five-minute drive by car. Less by Jet Ski. Her eyes rolled over his face, as if she were considering it. He’d never had anything close to a poker face, which meant she saw his remorse and his attraction. At six two, two thirty, he was a big dude, and he kept in prime shape with running and water sports. He was used to women ogling him and practically doing cartwheels to get his attention. She drew in a deep breath, her eyes dropping to his bare chest, and she bit her plump lower lip. “Sexy” didn’t begin to describe the dichotomy of sweet and sultry this woman possessed. But she wasn’t doing cartwheels. In fact, those hungry eyes shifted away from him. “It’s okay,” she said. “I was getting ready to leave anyway.” She was blowing him off? There was no way he was letting her leave without doing something to make up for this debacle. Okay, maybe he also wanted to strip away those wet clothes and warm her up. But that was beside the point. “Are you staying at a cottage on the beach? I can give you a ride on my Jet Ski.” “As tempting as that sounds, since I’ve never been on one, I have my car.” She pointed to the parking lot with the hand that held her phone, and her smile faded. “Oh, shoot. My phone got wet.” “I can take care of that.” He took it from her and wiped it on his shorts. She watched his hands, his biceps, his pecs, his shorts, with laser focus. His fish wasn’t off the line yet. “It should be okay now. Want me to put my number in your contacts? In case you change your mind about that drink?” That brought a curious smile. He noticed the cutest dimple beside her mouth when she smiled. “Does that usually work?” “No idea. I haven’t had to use that line before.” He stepped closer, unable to resist brushing a lock of hair that was stuck to her cheek away from her face so he could see her better. Their eyes connected, and the temperature spiked. She must have felt it, too, because she was licking her lips like a hungry tigress. In the next breath, her eyes darted nervously around the beach. Christ, now she looked sweet and innocent. How did she do that in the blink of an eye? Rick was only at the Cape for a few more weeks, working on renovations at the resort before returning to his real life, and design-build business, in Washington, DC. The thoughts running through his mind were not sweet and innocent. He should let his apology ride, get on his Jet Ski, and drive away. But she had his rapt attention, and he was unable to walk away. “You don’t have to use my number,” he said. “But you never know. Maybe when you’re lying in bed tonight, unable to stop thinking about me, you’ll wish you had it.” Her cheeks flushed, and those sparkling green eyes moved over his face and down his chest again, lingering long enough to send a stroke of heat to his core. “Why not?” she said, surprising the hell out of him. “Go ahead and put your number in my phone…?” “Rick.” He entered his contact information and handed it back, curling his fingers over hers and holding them for a beat. Her eyes flicked up, dark and alluring. “I’m Desiree,” she said a little breathlessly. Oh yeah, you feel it, too.
Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.
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