The last thing advertising art director Lucy Bellamy wants is to go home to the Outback, but duty to family calls. At least there’s one bonus—her first love, sexy cowboy neighbour, Garth Mackenzie, is there and the attraction between them is still explosive. But Lucy has no intention of getting stuck in this two-bit town and she counts down the days until she can go back to her real life.
After an engineering degree and working in the mines of Western Australia, Garth has returned to the Outback and is home to stay. His goal is to settle down, start a family, and work his beloved land with the girl he’s always loved. But if it comes to Lucy choosing between the glamour of the city or making a home with him in the Outback—he’d lose, hands down. 
The small copse of trees where they’d both lost their virginity one warm winter afternoon still stood in the middle of the wheat paddock. For a few weeks afterwards, he’d expected to see her grandfather arriving with a shotgun because they’d used no protection. Condoms weren’t something he’d carried when he’d been fencing back in those teenage years. He grinned; it had been a good lesson for an eighteen-year-old boy.
Those lazy afternoons popped into his head as Lucy stood in the water and waded towards him. Her one piece swimsuit clung lovingly to her curves and he let his gaze sweep her length. Her body was more womanly than when she’d been an athletic teenage and her skin was fairer than it had been when she’d lived out here. But she was still as drop dead gorgeous as ever. As he kissed her cheek and stepped back he became the subject of her intense scrutiny. Her bright blue eyes held his and her low and husky voice sent a shiver down his spine. “Come on over to the farm for a quick visit.” He shook his head.” Thank you, but no, not at the moment. Your grandmother wouldn’t be too happy if I rolled into her kitchen.”
Annie Seaton lives on the edge of the South Pacific Ocean on the east coast of Australia She is fulfilling her lifelong dream of writing and has been delighted to discover that readers love reading her stories as much as she loves writing them. Annie lives with her own hero of many years. Their two children are now grown up and married, and two beautiful grandchildren have arrived. Now they share their home with Toby, the naughtiest dog in the universe, and two white cats. When she is not writing she can be found in her garden or walking on the beach... or most likely on her deck overlooking the ocean, camera in hand as the sun sets. Each winter, Annie and her husband leave the beach to roam the remote areas of Australia for story ideas and research. In 2014 Annie was voted Author of the Year and in 2015 was voted Best Established Author in the AusRomToday.com Readers' Choice Awards. Readers can contact Annie through her website annieseaton.net or find her on Face Book, Twitter and Instagram.
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A Most Unlikely Duke Diamonds In the Rough #1 By: Sophie Barnes Releasing June 27, 2017 Avon Books 
He never thought he’d become a duke, or that the secrets of his past will cost him his greatest love...
Raphe Matthews hasn’t stepped foot in polite circles since a tragedy left his once-noble family impoverished and in debt. The bare-knuckle boxer has spent the last fifteen years eking out an existence for himself and his two sisters. But when a stunning reversal of fortunes lands Raphe the title of Duke of Huntley, he’s determined to make a go of becoming a proper lord, but he’ll need a little help and his captivating neighbor might be just the woman for the job… After her sister’s scandalous match, Lady Gabriella knows the ton’s eyes are on her. Agreeing to tutor the brutish new duke can only lead to ruin. Although she tries to control her irresistible attraction to Raphe, every day she spends with him only deepens her realization that this may be the one man she cannot do without. And as scandal threatens to envelope them both, she must decide if she can risk everything for love with a most unlikely duke. 
London, 1818
Thick clouds darkened to shades of gray as they rolled across the London sky. Beneath them, standing in the middle of the Black Swan courtyard, Raphe Matthews drew back his fist, his muscles bunching tightly together—just long enough for him to assess the angle and speed with which to release all that power. Instinct made it a brief calculation. Less than a second, and then he sent his fist flying. The punch snapped his opponent’s face sideways, producing a spray of spit and blood that painted the air with specks of crimson. A cheer erupted from those who’d come to witness the fight—a motley selection of hardened individuals. This place was not for the weak or the wealthy. It reeked of filth and the daily struggle to survive. This was St. Giles, but it might as well have been the bowels of hell for all the difference it made. “Come on!” someone shouted. Raphe’s other fist met a hard chest with a crunch. His knuckles ached, the force of the punch vibrating through him. “Matthews, Matthews, Matthews . . .” The chant shook the air while Raphe shifted his footing, regaining his balance just in time to accept the blows that followed. He didn’t mind, for it only revealed his opponent’s sudden desperation. Raising his fists to block the attack, Raphe bobbed to the side, turning away, just out of reach. And yet, he was close—so close he could smell the sweat on the other man’s skin, see the fear that shone in his eyes, the beads of moisture clinging to his hair that dripped onto his brow. More shouts flooded the air, drowning him in a cacophony of unintelligible noise. The wave of encouragement shifted, alerting him that support had changed—no longer in his favor. Forcing it into the background, Raphe focused on the man he was meant to beat. Today his name was Calvin Butler. Raphe launched himself forward, surrendering to the rage, and let the punches fly, beating back pain and anger until Calvin Butler lay stretched out on the ground, hands covering his face in surrender. A fleeting second of silence passed, just long enough to be sure of the outcome, and then the spectators sent up a roar in response to Raphe’s victory. Exhausted, he stumbled back, a light drizzle dampening his skin. A coat was draped over his shoulders while Butler was helped to his feet—a sorry sight, with his blackened eye and swollen lip distorting an otherwise handsome face. Turning away, Raphe pushed his way in the direction of the taproom. All he wanted right now was a drink. Fast. “Butler ain’t lookin’ too good,” Raphe’s friend, Benjamin Thompson, said as he came up beside him. A couple of inches shorter than Raphe, his green eyes were a handsome complement to his ginger hair and freckles. He was without a doubt the kindest and most dependable person Raphe knew, besides his own sisters. Together, they made their way to the bar, where Ben promptly called for a server. “Give us a couple o’ pints.”Resting his elbows on the counter, Raphe grunted his response to Ben’s question. “He knew what ‘e was in fer.” Ben nodded. The beer arrived, and both men took a healthy swig. “Ye could ‘ave been gentler, though. The man was done. No need to keep beatin’ at him like that.” Stilling, Raphe slid his gaze toward his friend. “I couldn’t ‘elp it.” The rage had burned its way through him, driving him forward and filling his mind with one singular purpose: The need to win. “I don’t know ‘ow to fight any other way.” “I know,” Ben said softly. No, you don’t. You have no bloody idea. In this, he’d never been completely honest, not even with Ben. “In any case, the blunt’s pretty good—lets me keep a roof over me sisters’ heads.” “Aye, an’ a decent one at that.” Raphe couldn’t argue. He’d visited Ben’s home once—an overcrowded single room that he shared with his parents and five siblings. By comparison, Raphe and his sisters lived like royalty. “Have ye ever thought of gettin’ out of this place? Out of St. Giles?” Ben shrugged his shoulders. “An’ go where?” “Somewhere better. Christ, Ben, anywhere’s betterthan this. Ye’re a likeable man. Ye could probably snatch up a job at one of ’em fancy ‘ouses in Mayfair.” His friend snorted. “An’ ‘ave some nob lookin’ down on me, demandin’ I polish ‘is boots—or worse, empty ‘is chamber pot? I’d rather stay by the docks, thank ye very much. At least there I can take some pride in me work.” “Understood. But the pay there’s never goin’ to afford ye with yer own home. Don’t ye wish to marry one day?” “Sure. But there’s a limit to what I’m willing to do for a bit of blunt, Raphe.” He took another sip of his beer. “I’ll not lose me dignity by workin’ for a class o’ people I can’t abide, nor by lowerin’ meself to doin’ demeanin’ work.” The words speared Raphe to his soul, filling him with shame. “I know,” he muttered with admiration. If only he could be more like him, not wanting anything beyond what life had tossed his way. Perhaps, if he didn’t have his sisters to consider, he wouldn’t care so much.
What is their favorite place to visit? Denmark. It’s where I’m from. My parents have a summerhouse by the beach in the southern part and a house near Copenhagen. I love it there plus I get to see the rest of my family. What are 5 things you must have with you when you write? My laptop, a notebook, my Jane Austen Map of London, various pens in different colors and a hot cup of coffee. Do you have any post-publishing regrets? Yes! In my first book, How Miss Rutherford Got Her Groove Back, Tchaikovsky is mentioned as a current figure. I meant to change him to a different composer since he wasn’t even born at the time when the plot takes place, but I forgot. Really wish I’d seen that during edits. I haven’t used ‘fillers’ since. Can you tell us a little about your book? It’s a fresh spin on Pygmalion featuring a bare-knuckler boxer from the slums of St. Giles who suddenly becomes the Duke of Huntley. Navigating high society can be troublesome – especially with two younger sisters in tow – but thanks to his next door neighbor, the alluring Gabriella Radcliffe, he comes up to scratch while losing his heart in the process. What are some books that you enjoyed recently? I LOVED Julia Quinn’s The Girl With The Make-believe Husband. Right now I’m reading Sarah MacLean’s The Day Of The Duchess. Both authors are auto reads for me. What types of scenes are your most favorite to write? Definitely dialogue. When the characters are interesting and there’s a bit of tension, the dialogue pushes the story forward in a fun and interesting way. Describing what people are doing sometimes gets me while Love scenes are the hardest. Can you tell us about your upcoming book? The sequel to A Most Unlikely Duke is called The Duke Of Her Desire. It releases December 27th and features Raphe’s sister, Amelia, as she struggles to renovate a house on the edge of St. Giles and turn it into a school. Contending with her brother’s friend, the Duke of Coventry who’s been charged with protecting her, leads to a lot of quarreling, tension and high passion. 
Born in Denmark, Sophie Barnes spent her youth traveling with her parents to wonderful places all around the world. She's lived in five different countries, on three different continents, and speaks Danish, English, French, Spanish, and Romanian. But, most impressive of all, she's been married to the same man three times—in three different countries and in three different dresses.
When she's not busy dreaming up her next romance novel, Sophie enjoys spending time with her family, swimming, cooking, gardening, watching romantic comedies and, of course, reading. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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Moments of Clarity Moments Series #2 By: J.B. Heller Releasing June 22, 2017 Self-Published 
Blessed.
That was me. In every way that mattered anyway. I had a close, loving relationship with my parents, my older brother was my hero, and with graduation right around the corner, I was on the verge of turning my love of photography into a career. Then there was Carter, surprisingly he turned out to be the yin to my yang. Where I was alternative, slightly nerdy and a whole lot awkward, Carter was smooth, popular and confidant. Yet somehow, we fit. Or so I thought. With the events of one night, the clarity with which I once saw my life vanished. Leaving me completely unprepared for the reality I would now have to face and the choices that accompanied it. 
Moving his face down in front of mine he looks me right in the eyes, “It’s not Chance, football isn’t my life like it is for most of the guys. I have,” he pauses, deciding how he should finish his sentence, “other interests, too.” Looking away from his mesmerising whisky coloured eyes isn’t even an option. I can see the truth of his words in them, but that’s not all I see, he really is attracted to me. I mean, I’m not ugly or anything, but we don’t run in the same crowds. I’m vintage, retro, alternative, and he’s preppy, superior, elite. When I don’t say anything, he continues, “You’ve been one of those interests for a while now,” he breathes against my parted lips, “When I saw you in the locker room this morning I couldn’t believe my luck.” I swallow, “I’m not really sure what to say to that,” I tell him honestly. I’m flattered and all, but what the hell is happening right now? It doesn’t make an ounce of sense. “Say you won’t pull away when I kiss you this time,” he says softly. My pulse is beating out of control, and my body is humming with need, “Okay,” I agree. No sooner has the word left my mouth and he’s pressing his soft lips against mine, swiping my bottom lips with his tongue and my hands are clinging to his neck, pulling him closer still. Carter takes my hips and lifts me, putting my butt on the edge of the bench I was backed against, then he’s stepping between my parted thighs. It’s different from this morning, he’s not trying to devour me. He’s taking his time, his tongue sliding against mine in slow, sensual glides. When he slowly pulls back, his teeth catch my bottom lip and he gently sucks before releasing it. I’m a panting, turned on, mess, trying to catch my breath after the hottest kiss of my life. And Carter is his usual composed self, grinning at me.
J B Heller is an Aussie Indie Author of Steamy Contemporary and Comedic Romance. She has three wildling children, two giant Great Danes, one permanently terrified cat, five birds of various species (One of whom thinks she’s helping by running across the keyboard repeatedly while JB tries to work. Lucky she’s tiny.), and a gazillion fish. Oh, and we can’t forget the man child she calls her husband.
After years of working in assorted fields including a Butchery, Remedial Therapist Receptionist, Hairdressing, and Checkout Chick Extraordinaire, she finally found her place amongst likeminded people in the writing community. She published her first book in 2013 under the pen name Eliza Brown, and has since evolved into J B Heller with more than 10 titles to her name. On her limited downtime you’ll find her reading, trolling Pinterest for her next muse or online stationery shopping (she has a mild addiction to stationery and she refuses to seek help.). Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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King of Clubs Aces & Eights #2 By: Sandra Owens Releasing June 27, 2017 Montlake Romance 
In the second novel in acclaimed author Sandra Owens’s Aces & Eights series, passions—and tempers—flare as one star-crossed couple gets a second chance at love.
Covert FBI agent Court Gentry loves his brothers, his job, and his Harley-Davidson. Once he loved a girl, too, but when she broke his heart, he put his emotions on lockdown…until she crosses his path again. On vacation six years ago, free-spirited Lauren Montgomery fell hard for Court Gentry. She returned home happier than ever, only to descend into a spiral of abuse by her ex-husband, Stephan. When Stephan threatened to kill any man who touched her, Lauren cut Court from her life—but not from her heart. When Lauren and Court reunite after her friend marries his brother, Court guards himself against the person who made him feel such intense passion and pain. Except the undeniable spark between them is impossible to contain and heating up fast. Six years ago, it was love. Now, it’s just lust. Keeping it merely physical is a foolproof plan…right? When Stephan is released from prison, Lauren can’t outrun her past anymore, and Court vows to protect her. But with Lauren in imminent danger, Court must question his heart and risk his life to save the woman he never stopped loving. 
Court had wanted to let her know he was here, but Madison said if he did, Lauren would just kick him out. According to Madison, Lauren intended to go straight to bed. He tilted his head, listening to the sounds coming from her bedroom. She was moving around, opening and closing drawers. She definitely hadn’t gone straight to bed. What was she up to?
Suspicious, he waited. An hour later, the floorboards in the hallway creaked. A dark-clothed person walked into the kitchen, opened the refrigerator, took out two bottles of water, and stuffed them into the backpack she carried, and then headed for the door. Lauren. Lauren. Lauren. “Going somewhere my little midnight ghost?” She yelped, the backpack falling to the floor with a heavy thud. “Easy, G.G.” He pushed off the sofa. “Court?” She pressed her forehead against the door. “Why are you here?” “Guarding you. Going to be kind of hard to do if you’re not here, don’t you think?” He picked up the backpack. “Where you headed?” “None of your business.” She slipped around him, backed up to the kitchen light switch, and turned it on. “You can leave now.” “Don’t think so.” He frowned at the sight of a gun barrel in the partially unzipped bag. He pulled it out and held up the Glock 26, also known as a Baby Glock, preferred by women because of its smaller size. “You planning on shooting someone?” “Again, none of your business.” He shouldn’t like that fire in those golden brown eyes so much. “I’m making it my business. Do you even know how to shoot this?” When her gaze shifted away, he had his answer. Christ, she was clueless. About everything. How to use the weapon she’d been careless enough to let him find, how to disappear, and she probably didn’t know how to fight off an attack. What to do about that? As he saw it, he had two choices. Either let her go and hope she somehow managed to safely disappear or make her his project. He wasn’t stupid enough to tell her that last part since he doubted there was a woman in the world who’d appreciate being any man’s project. “Are you that afraid of him?” he asked even though he was sure of the answer. “Feeling like a broken record here because again, none of your business. I’d like you to leave now.” She crossed her arms over her chest, probably to show him she meant business. It wasn’t working since she’d managed to push up her breasts so that the material of her T-shirt stretched against them, leaving her nipples outlined. He’d had those beautiful breasts in his mouth, had explored every inch of her body, had known all her sighs of pleasure. He’d once thought she loved him. Until she’d told him in a phone call it was over, not even having the courtesy to tell him to his face. Nor had she given him a reason. Just, “Don’t call me again or try to see me.” That had happened only days after she’d told him she loved him. He’d learned the hard way women couldn’t be trusted, the first lesson on that coming from his mother. The one time he’d forgotten that lesson had been with Lauren. But never again. “What are you looking at?” She lifted one arm, snapping her fingers. “My eyes are up here.” Irritated with himself and her, he kept his gaze on her breasts to prove… What? That he was an ass? “So they are,” he said, lifting his eyes to hers. “Here’s the deal.” “There is no deal, Court. You have no say so over my life. I’ll ask you one more time to leave.” “Or you’ll what? Call the cops?” “Yeah, that’s exactly what I’ll do.” He chuckled, amused that she had no clue she was threatening to call the police on an FBI agent. “Let’s sit, and I’ll tell you the deal.” Ignoring the little growl deep in her throat, he settled on the sofa. “Come on, G.G. Just hear me out.” “Stop calling me that.” “Why? You used to like it.” She’d been his Gorgeous Girl for six days. It must have been the sun and beer and salty air that had tricked him into mistaking lust for love. He had to admit the woman had a lot to do with that, too. All six years had done to her was turn her from a cute college girl with a love of life into a beautiful woman afraid of her own shadow. He could appreciate the physical change in her, but he didn’t like the fear her ex-husband had put in her eyes. And when did she have that husband? Before he met her or after? Or even during? No, he couldn’t believe that she would have given herself to him so freely, showing no sign of guilt during their time together if she’d had a husband waiting in the wings. He wanted answers and he planned to get them. “Lauren, please. Sit and hear me out.” Her cat jumped onto the sofa, climbed onto his lap, and peered up at him with curious blue eyes. “See, even… Hemingway, is it?” At her nod, he said, “Even Hemingway wants to hear what I have to say.” Like a wary crab, she inched sideways to the nearest chair. “You have five minutes.” Little did she know. He had as long as he wanted because she wasn’t going anywhere. She might not like it, but it was for her own good. As an officer of the law, he couldn’t stand by and watch her get herself hurt. From all the signs she’d unknowingly given him, she fully expected bad trouble was headed her way. “I have an offer for you.” 
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A best-selling, award winning author, Sandra Owens lives in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Her family and friends often question her sanity, but have ceased being surprised by what she might get up to next. She’s jumped out of a plane, flown in an aerobatic plane while the pilot performed death-defying stunts, has flown Air Combat (two fighter planes dogfighting, pretending to shoot at each other with laser guns), and rode a Harley motorcycle for years. She regrets nothing.
A member of Romance Writers of America's Honor Roll, Sandra is a 2013 Golden Heart® Finalist for her contemporary romance, CRAZY FOR HER. In addition to her contemporary romantic suspense novels, she writes Regency stories. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER |GOODREADS 
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A LONE STAR LOVER
Callie Reed doesn’t need a man to protect her. An expert sharpshooter and renegade hacker, this Texas-born spitfire’s got the skills and the courage to stand up to any danger―no matter how deadly. But when she becomes the target of a shadowy organization known as the Saints, Callie is forced to team up with the one man she can’t outshoot: the gorgeous, and infuriating, Lone Star legend named Wyatt Loughman… A Delta Force Colonel with a rock-hard body and stone-cold heart, Wyatt has been teasing and tormenting Callie since they were playmates on his family’s ranch. Of course, he’s wildly attracted to the fiery, strong-willed Callie. But he’s always hidden his feelings behind a wall of Texas tough and military cool, even as he’s burning up with desire. Can Wyatt save Callie’s life―without putting her love in the line of fire? 
The cover got my interest, I read the blurb and I was hooked and requested the book on NetGalley. I saw that the book is part of a series, but I didn't care. Well, maybe I should have. Because even though I found this story highly entertaining and engaging, I think this is one of those times that reading the previous books not only helps to keep a track of the different players and elements but most likely would have made this story even more enjoyable to me.
The author's writing is great, the story has a good tempo, timing, and a natural flow that made me get completely lost in the story, with the heartfelt, rather sweet second chance romance and the edgy, deadly, escalating suspense that kept me on my toes. I loved Callie Reed as the heroine, she is capable, she is equal, she knows what she is doing, she is part of the team, and held her own against the savage culprits as well as against her family, everyone who is after them. Wyatt Loughman is a true alpha, protective, strong, steady, and silent, with only one weakness - Callie. I loved them together because of the connection they had, have had for years, and how those feelings they used to have for each other are maturing and developing as they have as individuals. The suspense is a tangible force in the story. Like a snowball effect, it keeps escalating with frequent, violent, brutal one on one combat action scenes until the grand explosive finale. There are several different culprits coming at them, looking for revenge, to take them out, annihilate them. Here is where the information from the previous books would have been a great benefit, I believe. There is a lot going on, a lot of players on the field, sub-plots that some were wrapped up some left open ended. The whole ending, even though coming to a satisfying conclusion as of now, had a feeling that there is more to come. For all the conspiracy lovers, suspense readers, who enjoy a taste of romance mixed with the action scenes, who appreciate a strong sense of family, and the bond of military brotherhood, this series is for you! ~ Four Spoons
The Poseidon team are hard-bodied, fiercely competitive Navy SEALs. But when a sensitive mission goes disastrously wrong, three of the team's finest will have to trust their hearts and instincts to uncover the truth…
Lieutenant Elijah Prescott should be spending his precious leave somewhere with sun, surf and scantily clad women. Instead, he's heading home with two goals in mind. Figure out exactly how his last assignment went to hell and almost killed him—and reconnect with the woman who might offer salvation. Ava Monroe has streamlined her life, eliminating every source of pain—including a marriage touched by tragedy. One glimpse of her ex and those good intentions turn to bad-girl desires. Her strategy: get over Elijah by getting under him again, sating herself until she can finally let go. But as betrayal within the rank of the SEALs turns deadly, there's no denying that her heart and her life are on the line. Elijah is the only man who can protect both… 
An emotional, passionate, and touching romance story with a touch of danger and suspense.
This story has a heartfelt, in-depth look at the sacrifices, challenges, and the instability that military families live with on daily basis, how the service to the country affects those serving and to those who are left behind waiting for the homecoming. The nightmares, flashbacks, and losses the service personal faces and come home with were described with raw honesty as well as the terrors that they carry with them rest of their lives. Oh, there was sweet, hot romance and constantly present danger, even one on one action and palpable fear for their lives, but the mental battle of survival and learning to live with the images of the war as a constant companion in your head as you close your eyes, that is what was on my mind as I finished the story. Elijah Prescott and Ava Monroe's love story started years ago. They had faced the difficulties, the challenges, the troubles, the pressure, and expectations from their families. Yet what ultimately drifted them apart was a devasting loss of life. There's no question about if Elijah and Ava love each other, needs each other, desire each other - that is palpable in the air, a tangible force pulling them together. But the growth, the maturing, learning to accept, to be open, to communicate, to make compromises, to dare to take the risk and the leap of love, that is what they have to learn and figure out if it is worth to betting everything on their love. Call to Engage had the elements that I expected with romance and suspense, but it had so much more as well with the mental and emotional concerns of the protagonists, the anguished battles of their minds and hearts. ~ Four Spoons with the teaspoon on the side
Beware the Ranger In the Long Arms of the Law #1 By: Debra Holt Releasing June 28, 2017 Tule Publishing 
Twelve years ago, Kaitlyn Russell had a dream: living happily ever after with Clay Morgan. Except her grandmother had bigger plans for her beloved granddaughter and they didn’t include life in the small town of McKenna Springs as the wife of a young, poor deputy. Kaitlyn’s heart was broken when Clay and her grandmother convinced her to pursue her second love, Broadway stardom.
Texas Ranger Clay Morgan is a widower with a young son to raise. A dozen years before, he had to make the most difficult decision of his life when he agreed to let go of the only woman he’d ever loved so that she could pursue her dreams. Now, fate and an old woman’s guilty conscience conspire to bring Clay and Kaitlyn back together once more. Will they be able to lay the past to rest and rekindle their love from the ashes? 
“Miss Russell,” he said as he handed back her license. “Can you step out of the car, please?”
“What is the problem, Deputy…Trooper, I mean?” Angie asked as she leaned across the center console to look up at the man who turned his officious smile in her direction. “There’s someone on his way that will let you know what it’s all about. Miss Russell, if you would please…?” His hand went to the door handle. Popping the door’s release, Kaitlyn opened it and stood. Her patience was beginning to grow thin. Not one to leave her friend without support, Angie exited her own side and watched the scene from there, lending her friend her support. “How long is this going to take? I really would like to know what this is about.” Kaitlyn fought to keep her voice controlled. She never liked guessing games. “Well, ma’am, I think you’re about to get some answers.” As he spoke the words, he nodded over her shoulder. They all turned to look. What the—? She was surprised to see a sleek, dark blue helicopter moving swiftly toward them. Kaitlyn raised her hand above her eyes to block the glare of the sun. She tried to make out the markings on the craft, but to no avail. What on earth was going on? “This day is finally getting interesting again,” Angie spoke up. “Do you think they could give us a lift to New Mexico?” “I’m glad you’re finding this amusing because I’m not.” “That’s because you always like to be the one in control,” Angie responded with a slight toss of her head and a knowing grin. “Yes, I do. I admit it. This person better have a quick explanation so we can be back on our way.” The helicopter made a pass overhead then descended and swung back in a wide arc. In a few brief minutes, the pilot had easily set it down a few hundred yards distant on the side of roadway. As the blades began to slow, the passenger side door opened. Another trooper stepped down from the craft. She moved toward them, the other trooper acknowledging her arrival with a slight nod of the head. She nodded to both Kaitlyn and Angie before moving to stand beside her male counterpart. Obviously, this was not the person with the answers for them. “Well, well…hellooo, handsome!” Angie’s comment, spoken in a low voice, made Kaitlyn swing her attention back to see what Angie was talking about or, more precisely, who had elicited such a breathless compliment from her friend. In that moment, the world imploded. Everything she had trusted to not change was shattered. Time came to a screeching halt. She literally froze in place. It would be sometime later when she tried to remember if she even managed a breath of air. Everything waited…waited on the tall male figure who had stepped out of the pilot’s side door and was advancing slowly toward her.
Born and raised in the Lone Star state of Texas, Debra Holt grew up among horses, cowboys, wide open spaces, and real Texas Rangers. Pride in her state and ancestry knows no bounds and it is these heroes and heroines she loves to write about the most. She also draws upon a variety of life experiences including working with abused children, caring for baby animals at a major zoo, and planning high-end weddings (ah, romance!).
Debra's real pride and joys, however, are her son, an aspiring film actor, and a daughter with aspirations to join the Federal Bureau of Investigation. (more story ideas!) When she isn't busy writing about tall Texans and feisty heroines, she can be found cheering on her Texas Tech Red Raiders, or heading off on another cruise adventure. She read her first romance...Janet Dailey's Fiesta San Antonio, over thirty years ago and became hooked on the genre. Writing contemporary western romances, is both her passion and dream come true, and she hopes her books will bring smiles...and sighs... to all who believe in happily-ever-after's. Debra invites you to visit her website. She loves to hear from other aspiring authors or readers via her email. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER |GOODREADS 
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FORBIDDEN KNIGHT
by Diana Cosby
Genre: Historical Romance
Pub Date: 6/6/17
Deep within Scotland, a healer and a warrior join forces to protect Scotland’s future . . .
There is an intruder in the woods near King Robert Bruce’s camp, but when Sir Thomas MacKelloch comes face-to-face with the interloper, he is shocked to discover his assailant is a woman. The fair lady is skilled with a bow and arrow and defiant in her responses. The wary Knight Templar dare not allow her beauty to lower his guard. Irritated by his attraction, he hauls her before his sovereign to expose her nefarious intent.
Outraged Sir Thomas dismissed her claim, Mistress Alesone MacNiven awaits the shock on the arrogant knight’s face when he learns that she has told the truth. But it is she who is shocked, and then horrified, as it is revealed that her father, the king’s mortal enemy, has betrothed her to a powerful noble, a deal that could jeopardize the king’s efforts to unite Scotland. Robert Bruce orders Sir Thomas to escort Alesone to safety. As they embark on a harrowing journey through the Highlands, Alesone tries to ignore her attraction to the intimidating warrior, but as she burns beneath Thomas’s kiss she realizes this fearless knight could steal her heart.
A frustrated exhale sounded behind Lady Alesone.
“Do you always interrogate the people you meet?” Sir Thomas asked. Though tired, Alesone smiled. “Only the interesting ones.” Ice crunched beneath the horse’s hooves as his destrier picked his way through the litter of rock and snow down the incline. At her protector’s silence, she glanced back. In the cloud smeared moonlight his gaze held hers. At the intensity, a shiver swept through her. From their less than cordial start, she’d doubted they’d ever come to a point where she’d look at him more than a man to avoid. Yet, something about Thomas drew her. Drew her? An understatement. In truth, from the way his eyes held hers, his direct manner, and how he moved with predatory stealth left tingles of awareness sliding through her body. He was unlike any man she’d ever met. Off balance by the needs he evoked, she shifted to a safer topic. “I want to apologize.” “You have done naught to apologize for.” “I have. Although praised by our king, I doubted you.” “Lass,” he said, fatigue weighing heavy in his voice, “your belief in me is irrelevant. Once you are safely delivered, never will we see the other again.” She stiffed, hurt that he could dismiss her with such ease when he lingered on her mind. Why? ‘Twas nae like she wanted him to stay. Still, a foolish part of her needed to know. “And when you ride off you will forget me?” she teased. Thomas grunted. “Anyone who drives an arrow paces from my heart I remember.” 
A retired Navy Chief, Diana Cosby is an international bestselling author of Scottish medieval romantic suspense. Books in her award-winning MacGruder Brothers series are translated in five languages. Diana has spoken at the Library of Congress, Lady Jane’s Salon in NYC, and appeared in Woman’s Day, on USA Today’s romance blog, “Happy Ever After,” MSN.com, Atlantic County Women Magazine, and Texoma Living Magazine.
After her career in the Navy, Diana dove into her passion – writing romance novels. With 34 moves behind her, she was anxious to create characters who reflected the amazing cultures and people she’s met throughout the world. With the release of her first two books in her new Scottish medieval The Oath Trilogy, An Oath Taken and An Oath Broken, both which hit bestseller lists in the U.S., Canada, and the United Kingdom, as well as the release of the e Box Set of the MacGruder Brothers series, she is now preparing for the release of the last book in The Oath trilogy, An Oath Sworn on 23 December, 2015!
Diana looks forward to the years of writing ahead and meeting the amazing people who will share this journey.
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Primrose Lane Harmony Harbor #3 By: Debbie Mason Releasing June 27, 2017 Forever 
Love is the best medicine.
Olivia Davenport has finally gotten her life back together. She’s left her painful past behind, started over in a new town, and become Harmony Harbor’s most sought-after event planner. But her past catches up to her when Olivia learns that she’s now guardian of her ex’s young daughter. With her world spinning, Olivia must reconcile her old life with her new one. And she doesn’t have time for her new next door neighbor, no matter how handsome he is. Olivia may act like she’s got everything under control, but Dr. Finn Gallagher knows a person in over her head when he sees one. He’d really like to be the shoulder she leans on, but Olivia makes it clear she doesn’t want his help. Since he’s returned to town, his waiting room has been full of single women feigning illness. Yet the one woman he’s interested in is avoiding him. But with a little help from some matchmaking widows and a precocious little girl, Finn might just win Olivia over. 
It was easy to connect with Olivia, to feel her pain and devastation. She really had experienced more grief and sadness than most ever have to even think about. But she is a survivor, despite all the hurdles life throughs at her way she is succeeding.
Dr. Finn Gallagher certainly doesn't make Olivia's life easier but complicates the matters on all the fronts even more. Finn was a frustrating character, with all his assumptions and quick judgment he takes half truths and bulldozes ahead. It took me a long while to warm up to him as the hero of the story. George is a character that I didn't know if I should have laughed or cried with her antics, obviously being fueled by the confusion of her situation and the resentment she could feel in the air. Primrose Lane is a book three of Harmony Harbor series, and I once again jumped right in the middle of the events, and here it would have been a great benefit to have read the previous books in the series. The Manson and business problems, the rambunctiously loud family, the meddling townfolks, the ghost that scares the kids and saves the day with the cat, the mayhem, the chaos, even the unknown danger lurking around are all makings of part three of the family saga that had me laughing, amazed, and frustrated, as finally exhaling when all is said and done. The story is a roll-a-coaster ride of emotions, events, twists in the plot, and unique characters. So take a deep breath and dive in the fun, emotional, peculiar world of Primrose Lane ~ Four Spoons 
Finn gave his brother a weak smile. Talking about his ex sister-in-law Harper reminded him of his conversation with Celeste Sutherland. Harper came from money and had that same self-important vibe Finn had picked up from George’s grandmother. He scrubbed his hands over his face as his brother pulled into the parking lot at the manor. What if he’d made a mistake? What if Stanley had a valid reason for not informing the Sutherlands that their granddaughter needed a place to live?
“Hey, bro, looks like Stanley got to Olivia first.” Finn shifted in the Jeep to see her talking to the older man beside the silver Audi. He cursed under his breath, and Liam patted his shoulder. “Olivia’s good people. She’ll understand that you meant well. She’s not the type of woman who will sue you for breach of patient-doctor confidentiality. Maybe if she needed the money she would, but we both know that’s not the case. It’s all good.” Finn groaned and leaned against the headrest. Closing his eyes, he went over his conversation with Olivia’s mother-in-law in his head. Was he in breach? He didn’t think so, but because he’d been trying to relay the depth of his concern for Liv and George, maybe he’d said too much. “Okay, prepare yourself, here she comes.” He opened one eye to look at his brother. “How ticked is she?” “Can’t tell. But I suggest you get out of the Jeep. I don’t want blood all over my seats.” “You’re seriously not funny, baby brother.” “I actually wasn’t joking.” Finn bowed his head and reached for the door handle. Before he had a chance to open the door, it was flung open, nearly ripping his arm from the socket. Face flushed, eyes shining, Liv stared at him with her hands pressed to her chest. “You wonderful, amazing, ridiculously gorgeous man, I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay you. Thank you, thank you, thank you,” she said, and grabbed his face. She kissed him enthusiastically, like a sexy, bouncy cheerleader on her first date. And then the kiss slowed and became warm and languid. Her lips moving softly over his, gently exploring as she wound her arms around his neck, those tantalizing curves he’d become aware of in the tide pool pressed against the side of his body. At the sound of someone clearing their throat, he drew back, his breathing ragged. “You got into the Chardonnay again, didn’t you?”
Debbie Mason is the USA Today and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series and the Harmony Harbor series. Her books have been praised for their "likable characters, clever dialogue and juicy plots" (RT Book Reviews).
When she isn't writing or reading, Debbie enjoys spending time with her very own real-life hero, their three wonderful children and son-in-law, two adorable grandbabies, and a yappy Yorkie named Bella. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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Unmistaken Identity Fanboys #1 By: Marie Johnston Releasing June 21, 2017 Self-Published 
Mara Baranski is living the fangirl’s dream, running a comic book shop that supports her and her ailing mother. She is even given the chance to buy the building—for a dollar. That is, until her dear friend and landlord dies before the sale goes through. Now Mara has forty-five days to clear out her shop or convince the resentful son of the old owner to change his mind—if she can only corner him long enough to ask.
Despite being abandoned by his father years ago, Wesley inherited all of his dad’s assets and ambition—but not his gullibility. When the tantalizing woman at his nightclub turns out to be the woman who scammed his lonely father, he seizes the chance for a little revenge. But after using a fake name to get close to his target, Wes is soon coming up with excuses to keep his identity secret a little longer. As the forty-five days count down, Mara’s loyal customers swoop in to help save her store. Even more, her handsome new boyfriend is making her believe in happy endings again. Too bad secret identities only last forever in comic books. 
She had to hunt Wesley Robson down tonight, didn’t want to waste more time on her search. As it was, the night would be too short for decent sleep. Saturday was game day at her comic book shop. Participants showed early and played intensely for hours. Board games, card games, electronic games. She would jump in and play them all, or run around the store helping customers.
It was her favorite day of the week, but still a long one. What did Wesley look like, anyway? She would’ve seen him if she’d been able to go to the funeral. By the time she’d found out about Sam’s sudden death, though, he’d been gone and buried. There had to be a picture of his boy online. Just as she pulled out her phone to do a search, someone settled onto the barstool next to her. “Macallan 12.” The deep voice resonated through her bones. She almost groaned. He had the rumble of a rugged man, a primal mating call in her opinion. Admittedly, her last few dates had put the “boys” in fanboys, not men who knew their way around a woman. She peeked at him from the corner of her eye. Her fingers tightened around the stem of her glass. Holy hotness, Batman! He reminded her of one of her favorite superheroes. Jet-black hair, sky-blue eyes nearly glowing under the club lights, wide shoulders. If he wore a cape and had a large S on his shirt, she’d sit on his face. She’d still consider it, given his charcoal slacks and white-striped shirt, which likely had been cinched by a tie all day. The first two buttons were undone and his sleeves were rolled up. What was that style called? Industrial hot-as-hell businessman. “What’s your poison?” She shot him a surprised glance. He gestured to her already half-empty glass. What had the bartender said it was? “I think it’s named after some rapper.” He chuckled with genuine humor. “Are you here with the bachelorette party?” When hell froze over. “No.” The bartender leaned over the counter to hand him his drink. “The lady said she was looking for the owner.” Stay out of it, dude. Wait, he knew the total package next to her? Maybe the new arrival also knew the owner. “Do you know Mr. Robson?” His eyes crinkled with his smile. Even the man’s teeth were perfect. “Why would you want to find him? I’ve heard he’s an ass.” She rolled her eyes. “Tell me about it.” Hotness savored a long sip of his…whatever a Macallan was. “You’ve gotta tell me what he did to you.” The pink bangs that framed her face dropped into her eyes. She feathered them away. His gaze traced from her hand to her dual ponytails, the plain brown hair streaked with pink. Instead of blond highlights, or lowlights, or whatever stylish women did, she’d chosen pink—because it was fun and girly. One of the few splurges she allowed herself. Her hair often drew attention, not always the flattering kind. But she enjoyed his. “He’s shutting down my store. Tearing down the whole damn building. ‘Upgrading.’” She gave the last word air quotes. His right eye twitched and he stared at her for a heartbeat. Humor drained from his expression and his gaze narrowed slightly. Her heart rate increased at being the object of such scrutiny. She wanted more, but she also felt like she’d done something wrong. Finally, a grin curled his full lips. “That bastard.”
If you had to title your own life what would it be and why? Tales of an Insecure Mom What is their favorite place to visit? Favorite town: Fargo. It’s nothing like the show! We don’t want to admit it, but I’ve heard people talk exactly like the movie. Usually when I go there, all I want to hit up are restaurants. Favorite place: Greasy diners. It brings me great joy to find a place that serves a perfect burger. I’m not talking about a fancy patty seasoned to the gills, with a whole wheat bun, served on a bed of lettuce. I want a plain burger with the grease that soaks into a buttered and toasted white bun and soaks into my mouth when I take the first bite. And nothing but ketchup decorates my burger. Favorite writing place. There’s a Classic Rock coffee shop in town. The place is dark like a bar, but not as loud. Best of all, they have booths. I used to go there and write during preschool until my stomach said no more caffeine. I’m back together with caffeine, and when preschool resumes, my butt will be planted in one of those booths, and I will be happily typing away. What did you enjoy most about writing this book? The little twist about halfway through. I was writing my critique partner about the plot and brought up a “what if…” She said OMG—DO IT!! The twist is subtler that I imagined it, but it’s a major factor in their character arcs. What gave you the most trouble with this story? I entered this manuscript into several contests and many judges felt the hero wasn’t likeable. My editor got her hands on it and said I had to peel him back like an onion. I panicked. I had such a solid picture of him—did I not translate it well? Of course, in my head, he’s clearly a guy torn up by his father’s rejection and riddled with righteous anger over the girl he thought was trying to con his dad. And in the beginning, he was a jacka$$ with devious intentions, so I didn’t want to soften him too much. So, I used a light touch in my edits and my beta readers approved, but I still worry my vision of Wes Robson didn’t translate and readers won’t root for like I do. I’ve started the second book in the series and Wes makes an appearance and I’m just really proud of the character he became. Where did the inspiration for this book come from? I wanted to do my Midwest take on the billionaire bad boy romance. But I don’t travel much anymore, much less to any big cities. I haven’t lived in a city larger than 100K. And what do I know about being rich? So, I ruminated over different story lines and when the comic book shop came to mind—jackpot. I mean, it’s like I’ve prepared for this story my whole life. I’m a fangirl by proxy. My brother’s a Marvel guy and while growing up, I watched Star Trek with him. My husband is a DC guy and out-Treks my brother. Our date nights include superhero movies and I know to never, ever crinkle a comic book. What do you like best about being a writer? What is the most challenging part? As a career, I love the flexibility of being a writer. I’m the hub my family circles around and when I worked full-time and part-time, our chaos was almost unmanageable. As far as the craft, I just love writing, especially when I get into a groove and words are flowing and I don’t have to pop into thesaurus.com constantly. It’s a gigantic challenge finding time to write because it feels like everyone else’s activities come before my work. But in the end, that’s why I do this, to be around for my family. 
Marie Johnston writes paranormal and contemporary romance and has collected several awards in both genres. Before she was a writer, she was a microbiologist. Depending on the situation, she can be oddly unconcerned about germs or weirdly phobic. She’s also a licensed medical technician and has worked as a public health microbiologist and as a lab tech in hospital and clinic labs. Marie’s been a volunteer EMT, a college instructor, a security guard, a phlebotomist, a hotel clerk, and a coffee pourer in a bingo hall. All fodder for a writer!! She has four kids, an old cat, and a puppy that’s bigger than half her kids.
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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Rock Star A Bad Boy Homecoming Romance By: Stacey Kennedy Releasing June 27, 2017 Self-Published 
A high school reunion is about to get down and dirty and a whole lot more complicated in this new erotic romance from USA Today bestselling author Stacey Kennedy.
Veterinarian, Rae Evans expects to attend a dreadful ten-year high school reunion. Instead, she’s confronted by a past she’s never gotten over. The love of her life, Travis Walker, has returned to Catfish Creek, and the now-famous rock star wants only three things: Her. Naked. And screaming his name. Fresh off his last world tour, Travis has returned to town to get a dose of reality. With fame casting a superficial cloud over Travis’s life, he’s scrambling to stay afloat. He needs an anchor, and Rae is that for him. But as he finds himself, he’s determined to remind Rae of the heat that once burned between them. Before they know it, their one hot night is three, and soon, just like ten years ago, Travis holds the strings to Rae’s heart. But Rae’s not that young girl who watched her high school sweetheart race off to become famous. She’s a woman who knows what she wants and realizes when a man needs her. She just has to decide if she should put the past on repeat, or walk away from it forever. 
Travis Walker made women’s panties disappear.
On most nights, anyway. Tonight, sitting on a wooden stool set upon the stage at Catfish Creek High School’s conference center, only one woman was on his mind. His fingers strummed over the strings of the guitar, mouth rested near the microphone, and after he sang the final two lines of the chorus--I wanna kiss you under the moonlight. And love you ‘til the sun comes up--the applause from the crowd reopened his eyes. Sparkling string lights and masquerade masks hung from the ceiling above him, reminding him that he wasn’t surrounded by thousands of his typical screaming and wild fans. In his Texas hometown, he stared out at teachers, old friends, and classmates, all dressed in formal wear and masquerade masks. From his seat in the spotlight, he recalled playing for smaller crowds on this very stage back in high school. Those had been some of the happiest days of his life. Now, fresh off his last world tour, he realized he loved that scene, too. The energy of a smaller crowd, who knew him personally, and a larger crowd, who thought they were in love with him, was so different he couldn’t compare the two, but admittedly, he missed the intimacy that came from a smaller venue. Done with his song, and with the crowd quieting, he slid the guitar strap over his head and handed the instrument back to a member of the band that’d been hired to play at Catfish Creek High School’s ten-year reunion. When he jumped off the stage, he sighed in relief, finding that all the cell phones pointed in his direction were now put away, and the flashing lights were gone. That’s when he set his focus on what mattered tonight: finding her. Rae Evans—the muse behind the song he sang tonight, Moonlight. He scanned the crowd overtop the decorated tables with their gold chairs, but the beauty had escaped him somehow. He recognized Annie Flowers, the librarian, who gave him a little wave, and Christopher Christianson, the principal, who was grabbing a drink from the bar. Travis could have sworn he spotted Rae entering the masquerade ball when he began his song. Desperation now clawed at his chest. Determined to find her, he moved farther into the crowd, just as his cell vibrated in his pocket. Knowing exactly who it’d be, and that he couldn’t ignore the call, he reached for his phone and then frowned at the text from his manager, Scott Price. Awesome job. The video is already up on YouTube. Fans are loving it. The mask was a nice touch. Don’t miss your flight in the a.m. Travis shifted the black masquerade mask around his eyes, and the muscles along his shoulders tightened with the reminder of the weight they carried; of the need for him to always be on point, and the fact that nothing, not even his high school reunion, was sacred anymore. Life had changed dramatically since the last time Travis stepped foot in the conference center. But he didn’t want to think about the shit weighing on him, so he fired off a response--I’ll be on it--then tucked his cell phone back into his pocket. He had tonight to fix everything that was wrong with his life, and he wouldn’t waste it. In the eyes of his manager, Travis had come to the reunion to put on a show and to look real to his fans. But Travis hadn’t come for the publicity; he had come for one very good reason: to find his anchor—the woman who stopped his world from spinning wildly out of control. Lately, in a sea of chaos, he’d finally stopped drowning and saw a way back to the happiness he once had. That happiness had started with Rae, and surely, she was his way to find himself again. One touch. One taste. He wanted to remember what that happiness felt like.
Stacey Kennedy is the USA Today bestselling author of the Dirty Little Secrets and Club Sin series. She writes deeply emotional romances about powerful men and the wild women who tame them. When she’s not writing sensual stories, she spends her time in southwestern Ontario with her real life hero, her husband, their two young children, and her other babies: a mini labradoodle named Jax and a chocolate labrador named Murphy. Stacey is a proud chocolate, television show, Urban Barn, and wine addict. She likes her heroes in her books like she likes her coffee…strong and hot!
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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Every town needs a bad boy, and Wrangler's Creek's has been gone far too long
Getting his high school girlfriend pregnant was just one square in Roman Granger's checkered past, but it changed him forever. When his son's mother skipped town after the birth, Roman decided to do the same, baby Tate in tow, hoping for a fresh start. Now Roman fears his teenage son is following in his wayward footsteps, so he returns home to Wrangler's Creek, aiming to set him straight. It's there he encounters Tate's aunt, Mila Banchini, the good-girl opposite of Roman who's had a crush on him since childhood. The old spark between them undeniably never died, though Roman worries it'll only lead to heartache. But if falling for Mila is such a bad idea, why does everything about holding her feel so right? 
I try not to get all fangirl and start gushing out about Branded As Trouble but I can't guarantee it will not happen. I loved the story, absolutely every brilliant word of it. Delores Fossen's writing is something else. She can capture into one sentence so many emotions and layers of meaning it is delightful to just read the books, not to mention enjoy the stories. There can be so much tragedy and sadness in the meaning of the words and in the story yet it is said and expressed in such a way I could not help but chuckle as I was reading.
The bad boy Roman Granger is used to keep people at the arm's length to avoid emotions. Except for his son and Mila Banchini. Yet his son would rather keep his dad away from his business, and Mila, she has had a crush on him since they were teens. Both Roman and Mila are complex characters, there is much more to them than you might catch on the first look. Their emotions run deep, they love fiercely, they fight for and protect those they care for, and they both adore Roman's son, Tate. I loved the connection between Roman and Mila. There was raw honesty, openness, and deep-rooted emotions. They said what they meant, they did what they wanted, no smoke and mirrors between them. Yet there was passion, humor, and adoration that was striking. There is so much more going on in the story than just romance like there always is at Wrangler's Creek. There are family drama and trouble, there are issues with parenting both teens and toddlers, there is an undercurrent theme with teenage angst and relationship with their parents. All this is well twined into the tale of Roman and Mila finding their way to each other. There is chaos, mayhem, and turbulence in town, in families, and in relationships just like there is in life in general. Yet it is all told with an enjoyable sarcasm and humor, with emotions that captivate and touch your heart, presented by characters that allure and charm you completely, and you end up wishing the story would not end, enchanted by the world they live in. Yes, I absolutely loved it! ~ Five Spoons!
Something Borrowed Lone Star Match # 2 By: Megan Ryder Releasing June 22, 2017 Tule Publishing 
Three Bridesmaids. Three lost loves. One matchmaking bride. With just a week before the wedding, can a bride-to-be reunite her bridesmaids with the ones who got away?
Brigid Anderson is a second year lawyer on a fast track to making partner. With the weight of her siblings' success on her shoulders, Brigid feels like she needs to prove something–to herself and to her parents. Her life is running smoothly and all according to plan...until she meets Grady. Grady Coughlin understands focus and ambition, having taken over his father's contracting business and building it into a successful historic preservation business on his own. After a blind date with Brigid that ends in explosive passion, they embark on a friends with benefits relationship. But as Grady establishes himself in the business world, he decides he wants more and wants it with Brigid. On the eve of her best friend's wedding, with her promotion to partner dangling within reach, Brigid believes Grady isn't the best partner to suit her career ambition. But Grady and her heart don't agree and she must decide if she should stick to the safety of the plan or find the courage to pursue what she really wants. 
She headed for the stairs, knowing that she should be working but was honestly too tired to do any more that night. As she headed up the stairs, Grady invaded her thoughts. Suddenly, memory flooded back and she flung open the bedroom door and hurried in. Her foot kicked something soft.
"Hey, watch where you're going." Grady's voice came from somewhere south of her, on the floor. The unknown pile of stuff on the floor wasn't her luggage but was a makeshift pallet where Grady had already settled for the night. Brigid flicked on the light. "How was I supposed to know you would be camping out right in front of the door?" "There isn't much room anywhere else." He sat up, the sheet falling away, exposing his firm sculpted chest that felt as amazing as it looked. Brigid would know. She had always been obsessed with his chest, tracing the muscles with her eyes and hands when they were in bed together. She closed the door behind her. "I thought you were going to talk to Caroline about this." He yawned and stretched his arms, arching his back. "I tried. She refused, saying there wasn't another bed. I can't stay at the cottage or the surprise will be shot. So, here I lay, stretched out on this poor, hard floor like a forgotten dog." "Oh cripes, Grady. I'd expect such melodrama from Anna, not from you." But she laughed anyway and he grinned in response, the look taking her breath away momentarily. She studied the floor. "That's hard wood, not carpet. You're going to be stiff and sore tomorrow, not able to finish the cottage. We’re both adults and the bed is big enough. Besides you don't have anything I haven't seen or touched before." He stood, wearing only his boxers, his erection tenting the material in front of him. Her mouth went dry and she curled her fingers in her palms in an effort not to reach out and touch. He shook his head. "I think it's a bad idea, Brigid. We're not together and I don't think we should muddy the waters again." She frowned, her only thought focused on touching him, feeling him hard and hot around her, in her. She shivered as the cool air conditioned air touched her heated skin. She bit her lower lip. "Would it really be so bad? I mean, we're not attached to anyone, so what can it hurt?"
Name one thing you won’t leave home without. I never leave home without my ipad mini. I can write on that, take notes on it, and read on it. If I’m stuck in traffic, in a doctor’s office, waiting somewhere, I have something to do. I am not the most patient person but with my ipad, I can occupy myself for hours. I can actually leave my phone at home and be fine but if I leave my ipad, I get twitchy. What are some books that you enjoyed recently? I adored Silver Silence by Nalini Singh. She is one of my go-to authors and I re-read her constantly. I am in the middle of binge reading the Chicagoland vampire series by Chloe Neill and am loving them. I just read an ARC of Jamie Beck’s new book Before I Knew, coming out in August. So good and emotional. And I just read an ARC of Jamie K Schmidt’s Stud coming in July. Sexy and fun, but I loved the characters too. What do you like to do when you aren't writing? What are your favorite types of stories to read? While I enjoy contemporary romance, my guilty pleasure and my go-to reading is paranormal romance and urban fantasy. I can’t get enough of those genres. I have so many authors that I love including Nalini Singh, Ilona Andrews, Chloe Neill (a recent find), Patricia Briggs. Honestly, I could go on and on. Tell us all about your main characters—who are they? What makes them tick? Most importantly, what one thing would they need to have with them if stranded on a desert isle? ;) Brigid is a type-A lawyer, determined to make partner at her law firm as soon as possible. The problem is – is it her dream or her parents’ dream? Brigid comes from a high-achieving family. She defines herself as the “boring piece of cheese in the center of a sandwich of brilliance” and she feels constantly inadequate. So she feels this constant need to prove herself to everyone around her. Grady is the one person she doesn’t have to do that with; he loves her for who she is, can see who she really is and accepts her. But she can’t accept him because he is not the type of person her family would expect. He’s not on her plan. Grady is a contractor who rebuilt his father’s business after his father almost lost it due to an illness. He and his older brother, the groom Matthew, were very close until their parents divorced when Grady was young, with Grady staying with his father. He didn’t see Matthew or his mother again until Matthew reconnected when they were older. His mother had been focused on her status and appearances so when he met Brigid, he thought she was just his mother. He soon learned she wasn’t but her constant choices make him fear that he will always be second in her life, something he just can’t accept. But he keeps trying to get Brigid to pull her head out of her law books and see the world around her and the possibilities, especially him. Since they’re both so different, Brigid would want her cell phone and a signal on a deserted island because she needs to stay connected at all times. What if the office needs her? Grady, on the other hand, is perfectly fine with a six-pack of beer and his tools to build something, shelter or something to mess around with. He’s not fussy. Where did the inspiration for this book come from? This book is part two in a series about a matchmaking bride and the bridesmaids who she is determined to bring together with the ones who got away. It came from thinking about weddings and thinking about blissfully happy brides and how often they want everyone around them to be as happy as they are. I also love reunion stories so I started thinking about wedding romances, bridesmaids and what would it be like to be in a wedding and have the bride decide to play matchmaker. Now, it’s pretty hard to have a full romance in a week but, if you have a bride determined to bring her friends all back together and match them again, well, then you have a series. Trying to write three books all over the same week was a bit of a challenge though. Trying to make each story unique and not repetitive. But each bridesmaid was a strong character and tough in their own right, so I think they’ll keep people reading. How long have you been writing, and what (or who) inspired you to start? I have been writing for more years than I can remember. I always write stories when I was a kid, usually about horses or dogs, then fan fiction when I was older, and then romance in college. I didn’t get serious until the late nineties when I joined Romance Writers of America and my local chapter, which was a God-send, because I met people like me and learned all about writing. I value my friendships that I’ve made as a writer and how I’ve grown as a person through those friendships. What I love about being a writer is the what-if aspect. I’ll hear a news story – any kind – and start spinning a tale off of it. Imagine if this happened, or what if this happened? Many of those ideas don’t go anywhere but sometimes, that little kernel blossoms into something else and you can’t get it out of your mind. What do you like best about being a writer? What is the most challenging part? The best thing about being a writer is all of the great ideas out there. I love thinking of new ideas, the fodder for stories, and the possibilities that exist. I also love the people I’ve met as a writer, both other writers and readers. Seriously, romance readers and writers are the best people in the world. They are so welcoming and positive and supportive. Many of my closest friends I met through writing and I love it. What do you do when you are not writing? I love to knit, so that takes up a lot of time, however, I recently got a puppy, a rescue cocker spaniel. He was six months old when we got him and not training (not even potty trained) so that has been a challenge. So, much of my free time has been taken up training him and trying to convince him that outside is for potty, not inside. But he’s a sweet dog and I love him. Can you tell us about your upcoming book? After Something Borrowed, book 3 will be out – Something New. That will be Anna and Wyatt’s story. Anna and Wyatt had a real volatile history, with Wyatt as the football star and Anna the wanna-be movie-star. Unfortunately, Wyatt had a career ending knee injury and couldn’t achieve his dreams while Anna went on for hers, leaving Wyatt behind. A lot of simmering resentment remains between them, along with guilt. Anna comes off as a real bitch in these books but she might surprise everyone in her story. I loved writing her book and hope readers like her as much as I did. 
Ever since Megan Ryder discovered Jude Deveraux and Judith McNaught while sneaking around the “forbidden” romance section of the library one day after school, she has been voraciously devouring romance novels of all types. Now a romance author in her own right, Megan pens sexy contemporary novels all about family and hot lovin’ with the boy next door. She lives in Connecticut, spending her days as a technical writer and her spare time divided between her addiction to knitting and reading.
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The Day of the Duchess Scandal & Scoundrel #3 By: Sarah MacLean Releasing June 27, 2017 Avon Books 
The one woman he will never forget…
Malcolm Bevingstoke, Duke of Haven, has lived the last three years in self-imposed solitude, paying the price for a mistake he can never reverse and a love he lost forever. The dukedom does not wait, however, and Haven requires an heir, which means he must find himself a wife by summer’s end. There is only one problem—he already has one. The one man she will never forgive… After years in exile, Seraphina, Duchess of Haven, returns to London with a single goal—to reclaim the life she left and find happiness, unencumbered by the man who broke her heart. Haven offers her a deal; Sera can have her freedom, just as soon as she finds her replacement…which requires her to spend the summer in close quarters with the husband she does not want, but somehow cannot resist. A love that neither can deny… The duke has a single summer to woo his wife and convince her that, despite their broken past, he can give her forever, making every day... 
DESERTED DUKE DISAVOWED!
August 19, 1836 House of Lords, Parliament She’d left him two years, seven months ago, exactly. Malcolm Marcus Bevingstoke, Duke of Haven looked to the tiny wooden calendar wheels inlaid into the blotter on his desk in his private office above the House of Lords. August the nineteenth, 1836. The last day of the parliamentary session, filled with pomp and idle. And lingering memory. He spun the wheel with the six embossed upon it. Five. Four. He took a deep breath. Get out. He heard his own words, cold and angry with betrayal, echoing with quiet menace. Don’t ever return. He touched the wheel again. August became July. May. March. January the nineteenth, 1834. The day she left. His fingers moved without thought, finding comfort in the familiar click of the wheels. April the seventeenth, 1833. The way I feel about you . . . Her words now—soft and full of temptation. I’ve never felt anything like this. He hadn’t, either. As though light and breath and hope had flooded the room, filling all the dark spaces. Filling his lungs and heart. And all because of her. Until he’d discovered the truth. The truth, which had mattered so much until it hadn’t mattered at all. Where had she gone? The clock in the corner of the room ticked and tocked, counting the seconds until Haven was due in his seat in the hallowed main chamber of the House of Lords, where men of higher purpose and passion had sat before him for generations. His fingers played the little calendar like a virtuoso, as though they’d done this dance a hundred times before. A thousand. And they had. March the first, 1833. The day they met. So, they let simply anyone become a duke, do they? No deference. Teasing and charm and pure, unadulterated beauty. If you think dukes are bad, imagine what they accept from duchesses? That smile. As though she’d never met another man. As though she’d never wanted to. He’d been hers the moment he’d seen that smile. Before that. Imagine, indeed. And then it had fallen apart. He’d lost everything, and then lost her. Or perhaps it had been the reverse. Or perhaps it was all the same. Would there ever be a time when he stopped thinking of her? Ever a date that did not remind him of her? Of the time that had stretched like an eternity since she’d left? Where had she gone? The clock struck eleven, heavy chimes sounding in the room, echoed by a dozen others sounding down the long, oaken corridor beyond, summoning men of longstanding name to the duty that had been theirs before they drew breath. Haven spun the calendar wheels with force, leaving them as they lay. November the thirty-seventh, 3842. A fine date—one on which he had absolutely no chance of thinking of her.
New York Times, Washington Post & USA Today bestseller Sarah MacLean is the author of historical romance novels that have been translated into more than twenty languages, and winner of back-to-back RITA Awards for best historical romance from the Romance Writers of America.
Sarah is a leading advocate for the romance genre, speaking widely on its place at the nexus of gender and cultural studies. She is the author of a monthly column celebrating the best of the genre for the Washington Post. Her work in support of romance and the women who read it earned her a place on Jezebel.com's Sheroes list of 2014 and led Entertainment Weekly to call her "gracefully furious." A graduate of Smith College & Harvard University, Sarah now lives in New York City with her husband and daughter. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS 
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Love with a Scottish Outlaw Highland Weddings #3 By: Gayle Callen Releasing June 27, 2017 Avon 
Catriona Duff can’t remember who she is. Discovered in the midst of a raging thunderstorm, she has no recollection of how she came to be there or how the guards around her ended up dead. She certainly doesn’t remember that the handsome Highlander who saves her is her family’s sworn enemy. All she does know? She’s starting to fall in love with him.
Duncan Carlyle couldn’t believe his luck when he found Catriona, the daughter of the man who made him an outlaw and forced him from his ancestral home, stranded on the road with nothing to her name--including her memory. Speaking out against Aberfoyle’s evil practices of stealing poor and orphaned children to sell to the highest bidder has cost him everything, but now he has the opportunity to make the man understand the true price of a missing child. But as Duncan begins to know Cat, guilt over his actions wars with his irrepressible desire for her. When Cat discovers the truth of her identity, she decides she can teach the outlawed clan chief a lesson, but in love, there’s more than one way to win. 
Duncan lifted the woman’s upper body into his left arm, cradling her head so that he blocked the rain. He probed near her wound gingerly with his right hand, and she frowned and weakly tried to turn away.
His wariness deepened. There was something about her, a familiarity that echoed inside his head but refused to take shape. “Where am I?” she whispered, her accent English. “What happened?” An English lady in the Highlands? He chose to answer the second question rather than the first. “Ye’ve a nasty wound to your head, mistress. Did ye fall?” She blinked as if she might lose consciousness. “Where am I? What happened?” Now it was his turn to blink, but he remembered that wounds of the head could cause confusion. He knew he had to stop the blood loss. “Mistress, can ye stand?” She opened those eyes again, large and golden, in a delicate face. Her dark hair streamed back from her forehead, her hairline coming to a peak. He recognized her, a flash of memory from Stirling several years ago, when he’d glared his hatred at the Earl of Aberfoyle, a haughty old man on horseback, forcing aside a poor lass heavy with child to make way for him. The earl’s family was seldom in Scotland, so their arrival in the Highlands had caused a stir. Duncan had seen this woman riding just behind, wearing the fine gown and jaunty hat that marked her a noble lady. At least she’d looked distressed at her father’s actions. Catriona Duff was the daughter of Aberfoyle, the chief of the Clan Duff and Duncan’s bitter enemy. Aberfoyle was one of the main reasons that Duncan was an outlaw who had to protect and feed his people while on the run. He lifted his head and looked about, as if the earl and his entire retinue were somewhere nearby, waiting to attack him. “Where are your men?” he demanded. “What happened?” she asked weakly. “Ye’ve hit your head. Where are your men?” “My—men?” Her hand fluttered toward her forehead, but he didn’t allow her to touch the wound. A spasm of pain narrowed her eyes. “I found them . . . dead,” she whispered. “What happened to me?” “I don’t know.” Six weeks after almost being captured, he was still wary of anything unusual in his part of the Highlands. Dead men would prove her story true, but he couldn’t deal with them now. “I—I can’t remember—I can’t remember anything!” Though her cry was feeble, it was full of helplessness and fear. “Ye don’t remember the accident?” “Not . . . the accident, not even . . . my name.” He frowned down at her, wondering at what intrigue she was playing—or what her father had set in motion. He wouldn’t put it past the bastard. She clutched his plaid. “What happened to me?” she cried in despair. “I do not ken. I must clean that wound. Can ye stand? I can pull ye up on my horse.” He rose, lifting her up with him until she could clutch the saddle for support. After mounting, he reached down for her. He would have preferred she ride astride behind him, but she seemed so weak that he ended up cradling her across his thighs. She leaned into him, her head lolling onto his chest, her blood staining his black, red, and yellow plaid. It didn’t take long to reach the rocky overhang he’d used for shelter several other times. Once out of the rain, he searched his saddle pack but found nothing that would do for a clean bandage. He ended up cutting several strips from the end of his shirt with his dirk. The wound seemed clean enough after all the rain, so he wrapped the improvised bandages around her head and hoped they stopped the bleeding. She looked at him helplessly the whole time, and he felt like she was memorizing his features. He studied her, too. Her high cheekbones emphasized the hollows beneath, and her full lips hinted at an expressive mouth. Her pale face was as remote and beautiful as a statue, making her appeal to him on a primitive level that he would never acknowledge. Why was she in the remote Highlands? According to gossip he’d heard long ago, she rarely visited her father’s castles. Was she the advance of a larger party headed right for Duncan’s unsuspecting people? She was so close to his hidden encampment. If he let her go, she could bring men to hunt the area, risking his people—risking the good he was trying to do. He couldn’t release her until he knew all the facts.
If you had to title your own life what would it be and why? “Lucky in Love.” I met my husband a year before we started dating, but once we dated, we married within six months. And I knew that first month that I was in love with him. So any time someone uses love at first sight in a romance novel, I think it could be true, because it happened to me. And we’ve been married 35 years, so it can work! What is your favorite place to visit? It may sound cliché for a historical romance author, but I love England. I’ve visited three times now, and every time I see a different part of the country, I fall in love all over again. Last time, I visited my daughter who was studying for her semester abroad in London. The two of us rented a car and drove north—on the left side of the road!—all the way to Yorkshire. The countryside changes so much, from thatched roofs and abundant gardens, to bleak moors that roll to the horizon. Incredible! Favorite writing place. Even though I’ve written most of my books from a small office on the lower level of my house, my favorite place to write is on my patio. I spent all last summer working outside 4-6 hours every day. My yard is mostly trees, but I have an umbrella to sit beneath when the sun is overhead. I planted begonias and impatiens, which do well in the shade. I put up my feet up, my laptop on a lap desk, and I write, listening to the sound of the bees, the birds, and distant lawn mowers. My neighbor has several bird feeders that spill seeds onto the ground, so sometimes birds, squirrels, bunnies, and chipmunks are all cavorting in the grass together, like my own private show. It’s so peaceful! What are 5 things you must have with you when you write? Ooh, interesting question. I don’t think I’m superstitious about anything in particular, but there are some constants when I’m writing a book. A laptop is number one—a desktop computer can’t easily be moved, so I’ve used a laptop for years so I can set it aside to research, spread out my index cards, etc. And I want to be able to take it with me, too! Next, I always have ice water in a big insulated mug. I have index cards, because that’s how I keep track of all my scenes. I use a purple pen to write on them. And lastly, markers, because I highlight a corner of each index card to keep track of all my plotlines when I lay the cards out: purple for the heroine’s emotional growth, blue for the hero, pink for the romance plot, then green/orange/red for the various plotlines in the book. Yes, I love to organize and plot things out. Can you tell us a little about your book? I was so excited to write LOVE WITH A SCOTTISH OUTLAW, mainly because I finally found a story to fit a plot I’d always wanted to write: amnesia. I opened the book with the heroine, Catriona, waking up in the Scottish Highlands, her head bleeding, not knowing who she is. It was such fun to write! The hero Duncan is the chief of an outlawed clan—and he knows exactly who she is, the daughter of his enemy. While Catriona thinks he is being kind enough to house her while she discovers who she is, Duncan is really holding her captive. And of course, the sparks fly! 
After a detour through fitness instructing and computer programming, Gayle Callen found the life she’d always dreamed of as a romance writer. This USA Today bestselling author has written more than twenty historical romances for Avon Books, and her novels have won the Holt Medallion, the Laurel Wreath Award, the Booksellers’ Best Award, and been translated into eleven different languages. The mother of three grown children, an avid crafter, singer, and outdoor enthusiast, Gayle lives in Central New York with her dog Uma and her husband, Jim the Romance Hero. She also writes contemporary romances as Emma Cane. Discover more at her website.
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