WHO DO YOU LOVE
by J.M. Bronston
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pub. Date: 12/26/2017
Aspiring journalist Eugenia Shaw is thrilled to be doing her first story for Lady Fair magazine, covering New York’s famous Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. The last thing she expects is to fall in love—with a quirky looking Chinese Crested named Sweetie Pie. Or with the fellow dog lover she keeps accidentally-on-purpose running into in Central Park . . .
Unlike Jennie’s judgy live-in boyfriend, Paul is a man who appreciates Sweetie Pie’s unconventional beauty. And the better they get to know each other, the more it feels like he appreciates Jennie too. Soon she can’t help noticing how much happier and more confident she is when they’re together, or how Paul encourages her writing. He’s even inspired her to pitch a brand new story to Lady Fair. But will she be brave enough to rewrite her own next chapter? . . .
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Joan Myra Bronston grew up in New York City, married her college sweetheart, and went with him to Germany for a year while he was in the Army and where she worked as a telex operator and mail clerk. They then moved to Austria where Joan spent five years teaching at an international school. She is the mother of three wonderful girls and the grandmother of a super-wonderful grandson. Joan was also a secretary, social investigator, and psychiatric researcher, before entering law school and eventually becoming a corporate attorney. In addition to her years in Europe, Joan has lived in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and, for 18 years, Salt Lake City. At last, she has closed the circle and returned to her first and most beloved—New York City. Visit her website at jmbronston.com, find her on Facebook, and follow her on Twitter @JMBronston.
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The marriage is fake. The danger is real.
A child is all scientist Hannah Dietrich has left of her late sister...a child possibly kidnapped by the mysterious cult her sister had joined. To discover the truth about Emily's death and find her infant daughter, Hannah turns to BLM Special Agent Walt Riley. Posing as a married couple, they infiltrate the "Family" as devoted followers of the Prophet. But delving into the cult's dark secrets proves harder than expected...while their roles feel disturbingly easy for the fiercely independent Hannah and the no-nonsense lawman. Has their charade become a real relationship? And if they find the infant, how will they escape the Prophet's murderous wrath? The Ranger Brigade: Family Secrets
I just have to mention - that cover! It is so perfect! First of all, he is gorgeous, and secondly, and maybe more importantly, it fits into the story so well! It gives the message of the intensity and fierce danger that is surrounding the tale.
I really enjoyed this story, Undercover Husband has a palpable fear and a constant threat of danger that had me curling my toes and holding my breath. The cult - the Family - that the series is focusing on, it is giving out such strong vibes of peril and menace. That instability, danger, fearsome followers of the leader, it is tangible in the air. Special Agent Walt Riley is the new guy in the Ranger Brigade and with his less recognizable face the perfect candidate to go undercover to find more about the cult, and investigate the missing persons' cases, kidnapped baby, and uncertain circumstances around a death of a young woman. Walt is a solid character, he is capable, cool-headed, smart, savvy, and good with kids. His attraction to Hannah is fast but believable. He has faced a rather devastating heartbreak in his past but is willing to risk it again for the right woman. Hannah Dietrich is a smart career woman who can come off a bit cold at first, but she has a fiery heart for those she loves and is willing to do anything to protect them and care for them. She carries guilt inside her for her past, keeping her distance from the possibilities of romance and love yet the attraction she feels for Walt is unavoidable if she just dares to take the risk. The danger Walt and Hannah are in enhances the bond between them and the feelings they have for each other take root rapidly. A greatly entertaining story with a splendid balance of intense danger and sweet, clean romance. The series has a hook on me, it is rather addictive reading. It keeps the interest to the big picture of the Ranger Brigade investigation of the cult, the Family, yet satisfyingly solving each individual case as they come along. An ideal selection for the summer reading list! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Cindi Myers worked as a newspaper reporter, travel agent and medical clinic manager before turning to writing full time. She's written both historical and contemporary romance, as well as dozens of short stories and nonfiction articles. Cindi thinks writers have the best job in the world.
Former president of San Antonio Romance Authors, Cindi is a member of Romance Writers of America, Novelists Inc., and Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers. She and her husband and their two dogs live in the mountains Southwest of Denver. When she's not caught up in creating new characters and stories, Cindi enjoys reading, quilting, gardening, skiing and hiking. She's also in demand as a speaker, teaching workshops and making presentations to both local and national writing groups. WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER Summer is coming and get ready to sit down and relax with a great new Bliss read. Three new sweet romances to fill your eReader with!
Her Surprise Engagement by Ashlee Mallory
On sale June 19th, 2017
About the book:Soon-to-be Governor Jack Harrison has had a crazy week, but he’s sure nothing can top arriving to find a bathrobe-clad, beautiful stranger in the home he’s staying in for the week. He’s wrong. When things spiral out of control the next morning, Jack makes Daisy an offer she can’t refuse. She’ll pretend to be his fiancée and he’ll help her open the bakery she’s been dreaming about. But in between late-night campfires and days on the lake, Jack finds himself falling for the strong, stubborn woman for real. Find it online:Amazon | B&N | Kobo | GoodreadsSorensen Family Series:
Her Outback Cowboy by Annie Seaton
On Sale June 19, 2017
About the book: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.
Dating the Wrong Mr. Right by Amanda Ashby
On sale June 19th, 2017
About the book:Ben Cooper is doing his best to build his business and help his parents. The last thing he needs is the distraction that is Pepper Watson. She might be prickly every time he’s in her presence, but he sees another side of her. The side that has set aside her dreams to help her sisters. And then there’s the fact that kissing her is pretty much the best thing that’s ever happened to him. He’s putting down roots. She’s running away. It’s going to take more than a wish for these two to find their happily ever after. Sisters of Wishing Bridge Farm Series:
The Stable Vices Affair
The Chandler Affairs Book 1
By G.W. Renshaw
Genre: Paranormal Mystery
Veronica Chandler has worked hard to become a private investigator. At the age of eight she got a baton for Christmas—just like Mummy’s. At 12, she started working at her father’s restaurant so she’d have the money for the investigator’s course. At 16, she became an intern with the Calgary Police Service. And now, at 18, she's the youngest licensed PI in Alberta.
As her ex-boyfriend can attest, she has the skills. As a psychotic killer discovers, she has the will. Now she’s ready to take on the world: To find the lost and expose the faithless.
None of which prepare her for a house that can’t decide whether it’s empty, one or two perverse dwarfs with a bizarre hold over their victims, a kinky pony show, and a secret global organization. Every clue leads to more questions. Four lives depend on Veronica finding the answers.
And then there’s that pesky losing-your-soul thing.
There was sharp pain in my foot as the bat struck it, but my boot absorbed most of it. I wiggled harder. My coat got caught on something, and I strained to get away. Just as he grabbed both of my legs, and hauled me out into the street again, my hand grabbed something hard and cold.
There was no thought of consequences as I came out into the sunlight. Danielle’s gun was heavy in my frozen hands as I raised it to the looming shadow overhead. At that range it would have been almost impossible to miss. As he screamed again I squeezed the trigger. A hole appeared in his chest. He looked surprised. I managed to squeeze off another round as he began to crumple straight down. It reminded me of video of a building being demolished with explosives. Two rounds. Centre of mass. Just like in the simulator. I would have shot him more times if I could have gotten my fingers to work faster. I wasn’t consciously trying for a double tap. The sound of the shots was deafening. Afterwards, all I could hear was a high-pitched whine in my head. My ears were not impressed by all they’d been through in the past few minutes. I couldn’t breathe. Maybe it was the cold. Pain. Cold. Wetness. Silence. Blood. For a blessedly long time I lay there staring at Danielle. Waiting for the monster to rise again from behind her. Slowly, I started noticing other things. People on the sidewalks were running away, or standing with their mouths open. They were probably screaming, but I couldn’t hear anything but that whine.
The Prince and the Puppet Affair
The Chandler Affairs Book 2
Alyssa Blakeway is so submissive it’s a miracle she left her house, let alone asked Veronica to find out if her abusive husband is also cheating on her.
When Veronica finds out who Collin Blakeway is actually going to see, things go from bad to worse to deadly. They also challenge Veronica’s most deeply held beliefs as she discovers that demons and magic are real.
It’s no longer a matter of saving a marriage. Now she has to save the lives of Alyssa, her sister Kali, an unknown woman, and herself. All while avoiding being killed by her sister for acting stupidly.
If an arborist, a coven of Witches, the Vatican, the Freemasons, a Native Elder, and an old bicycle can’t save them, who can?
At that moment, something stabbed me between my shoulder blades.
Stab might be too strong a word, but if the mosquito was big enough that its proboscis had gone through my track suit and jabbed my back, it might be exactly the right word. It felt like I needed to reach the spot between my shoulder blades and pull it out before I passed out from blood loss. Damn, that hurt. How big was that sucker? During that half second of distraction I tripped over a freaking lawn chair. It was one of those cheap ones with nylon webbing and thin aluminum tubing that makes a big racket when it falls over with almost 60 kilograms of startled private investigator tangled in it. That would have been bad enough, but the deck also had a built-in, recessed hot tub. I fell onto the cover. Evidently, Collin didn't approve of rigid pool covers. They probably cost too much for his taste. Instead, he'd bought one of those cheap, floating bubble-wrap things with no structural integrity. Water leaped for joy, and made a big splash as it went everywhere. My top half was soaked, my feet were still tangled in the chair, and my head was underwater. At least the water was warm. I floundered for entirely too long, trying to do a reverse sit-up while my hands scrabbled to find the edge of the tub. I managed to grab it, and push myself out. By now, there was not much point in trying to be stealthy, so I kicked the chair free of my legs. Inside the house, a male voice was bellowing. This was not going as well as I'd hoped. I sprinted up the path to the fence, cooling water trickling from my soaked top down the inside of my trousers. I pushed my way through the tree branches, and jumped for the top of the fence. Despite the adrenaline fuelling my jump, I wasn't even close. I slid down the fence boards, and another branch caught me in the same spot on my back. On my second jump I didn't even get that high. My clothing got caught on a branch, and I was knocked off balance. I fell backward, and rolled down the slope toward the garden. It was a good thing that the glass cold frame broke my fall.
The Kalevala Affair
The Chandler Affairs Book 3
Being shot at and landing in protective custody certainly cramps a PI’s style, so when a group of collectors want Veronica to track down an historical artifact in England, she jumps at the chance. They’ll even handle recovery, so all she has to do is find the item. It’s a piece of cake.
There are a few details that were left out. Everybody is after this thing. Veronica has to dodge bullets meant for another PI, get chased all over Europe by Finnish terrorists, tries not to violate every national park in the world, and has to put up with an English investigator who insists on accompanying her.
Of course, the artifact turns out to be more dangerous than she was led to believe. Veronica has to trust somebody who tried to remove her head, decide the fate of the world, and survive an angry volcano. At least she’s getting paid for it. If she can collect.
On the way back to our hotel we were walking beside a park when Lana shoved me forward. As I stumbled I saw a big man rushing toward us from the direction of the trees. He was holding an impressive-looking knife in a way that told me he wasn’t an amateur with it. He was wearing a ski mask.
Seriously? A ski mask? How cliché. Lana had backed away and was starting her capoeira dance. Since I was on the ground he ignored me for the moment it took him to try to figure out how to attack Lana. That gave me a chance to spin around and drive my foot into the side of his knee. He shifted his attention back to me just in time, slashing the knife downward toward my leg. I felt it catch on my jeans, then my foot connected. His knee buckled with a nasty sound and he grunted. The knife stayed in his hand as he fell. His noise-making didn’t last long as Lana launched herself into the air almost simultaneously and nailed him on his temple with her heel. Her dress billowed out gracefully, and it would have looked spectacular in slow-motion. I don’t think he appreciated the sight before he became extremely unconscious. Lana looked completely unruffled as she held out her hand to help me up. “Are you all right?” “Yeah.” That’s when I noticed some blood on my leg. His knife had been sharp enough that the cut wasn’t hurting yet. Through the slice in the fabric it didn’t seem too bad. She checked his neck for a pulse. “He’s still alive.” I kicked his knife further from his hand. “That’s a relief. I don’t envy him how he’ll feel when he wakes up.” Lana peeled back his mask. “How interesting.” It was our book worm from the Helsinki airport. “What do we do now?” Lana said. “I’m not sure. What’s the emergency number in Finland?” “Try 1-1-2. That’s the European Union emergency number.” I’d just gotten my phone out when a police car coasted to a stop beside us. A young constable got out with a wary eye on us. “Mitä tapahtui?” “I’m sorry, we don’t understand,” Lana said. He switched to English. “What happened?” “This man attacked us with a knife. We defended ourselves.”
The True Love Affair
The Chandler Affairs Book 4
Veronica has just gotten home after solving a minor case in Mexico involving kidnapping, betrayal, bank fraud, and a Colombian drug cartel when an old acquaintance show up to hire her. Somebody has been committing impossible murders all over the world, and Veronica is the only person qualified to stop the killer before the body count soars.
The problems start with her client. Can she trust a demon prince not to send her back to therapy or worse for another year? What, if any, is his hidden agenda? Is anything at all as it seems?
Veronica thought she had a handle on magic and demons, but as soon as she starts investigating it’s obvious that all the rules have changed. She’s playing in the big leagues now, and she’s going to have to move heaven and hell to keep humanity alive. Starting with herself.
Now, if she can only survive dinner with her family, a blind date, a small immigration problem, and working with the federal cabinet, it’s possible that all will be well.
Or at least as well as it can be when you have to deal with insane immortals and a talking cat.
There was almost no light in my room, but by the red glow of the numbers on my alarm clock I could see vague shadows in front of me at the foot of the bed. They looked suspiciously like a pair of feet that were blocking my way to the door. My eyes followed the shadows up the dark mass to a quiet blue flame hovering in midair. It moved, becoming brighter for a moment. There was a sound of someone exhaling, and the pungent burning smell became more intense and caught in my throat. The smell wasn’t tobacco.
It was brimstone. I scurried backward, crab-walking with my butt almost on the floor, until my head hit the night table. The lamp on top teetered and fell to the carpet. I felt the lamp shade brush by my hair as it narrowly missed my head. The crunch of a breaking light bulb was close and immediate. Adrenaline poured through my system again. I chose to interpret it as anger rather than fear. A male voice with a distinctive lisp familiar to a previous generation of movie-goers spoke in the darkness. “Nice reflexes, doll, but you should put something on. You look cold.” I knew that voice. It was far too late for modesty, so I stood up, pushed past the figure, and put on the robe that was hanging on the door. I tied the belt by touch, viciously yanking the ends as I did so. I would have a hell of a time getting it undone later, but that was the least of my worries. I found the wall switch without much trouble and flicked it upward with a satisfying snap. The result was painfully bright, and I couldn’t help blinking several times. It didn’t make any difference to what I saw, which was exactly what I was hoping I wouldn't. Humphrey Bogart, circa 1941, stood in my bedroom, dressed in a well-tailored, three-piece, pin-stripe suit. He’d tossed his fedora over the post at the bottom of my bed. I really liked normal cases. None of them involved Sam Spade showing up in my bedroom at oh dark seventeen. Especially considering what the bastard had done to me the last time we’d met. He waved the sulphurous cigarette at me in greeting, and took another puff. How do you even smoke sulphur? The stench tickled my throat, and I made a great effort not to cough. I'd be damned before I'd let him make me cough. “Put that out. You’ll stink up the whole apartment.” “Whatever you say, toots.” The cigarette vanished as if it had never existed. The smell did not go with it.
G.W. Renshaw lives in Calgary, Alberta with his lovely wife and Romulus the cat. He likes to write stories that range from the unusual to the bizarre.
He has picked up a variety of skills over the years: gunner in the Canadian Forces, practitioner of Iwama-style Aikido, Krav Maga, and Chito Ryu Karate, computer programmer, Linux druid, Search and Rescue manager, caving, rock climbing, and archery. He learned man tracking from Terry Grant (the original ManTracker on TV). He also learned a variety of medieval skills while in the Society for Creative Anachronisms.
G.W. writes when he isn’t maintaining the web site for When Words Collide, being beaten senseless by his young padawan, or working at Mount Royal University, the University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, or the Cumming School of Medicine.
He claims to have a firm grip on reality, but seems unaware that it is slowly turning purple. He will happily watch just about any film with monsters in it.
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RIVER QUEEN ROSE
by Shirley Kennedy
Genre: Historical Romance
Pub. Date: 12/26/2017
The ramshackle River Queen Hotel is home to vagabonds, gamblers, and heathens—and now, to new widow Rose Peterson. The rundown Gold Rush establishment is the only thing her late husband, Emmet, left her. Despite its raucous saloon and ladies of the evening, Rose can see the hotel’s potential. Her late husband’s family claim that sheltered Rose isn’t capable of running the Sacramento inn herself. But she is determined to make a new life for herself and her young daughter, even if it means flying in the face of custom and propriety. She feels as if she hasn’t a friend in the world.
Except, perhaps, one. Decatur “Deke” Fleming, a tall, lanky Australian who once served as Emmet’s farmhand. Pride prevents Deke from revealing his moneyed past; conscience keeps him from confessing his feelings for the still grieving widow. But when Rose is tempted by wealthy civic leader and hotel owner Mason Talbot, Deke may be the only person who can save her—and the one man capable of reviving her bruised and battered heart . . .
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Shirley Kennedy was born and raised in Fresno, California. In her early career as an author, Shirley wrote traditional Regency romances, one for Ballantine, the rest for Signet. Later on, she branched into other genres. She lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, with her older daughter, Dianne, and Brutus and Sparky, her two editorial assistants who love to nap in the sunshine next to her computer while she works on her next book. Please visit Shirley at shirleykennedy.com, or follow her Twitter account @ladyk360, or on Facebook at facebook.com/shirley.kennedy.52.
TRACKING YOU
by Kelly Moran Genre: Contemporary Romance Pub Date: 5/23/17
Love isn't always loud. Sometimes it's silent.
Gabby Cosette has always been dubbed the good girl of quaint Redwood Ridge, Oregon, and being permanently put in the friend zone has left her dating life stagnant. With no prospects in sight, she clings to her friends and resolves to not let loneliness drag her under. So when the town Battleaxes set their matchmaking sights on her, she figures it can't hurt. Yet the guy they think is perfect for her just happens to be not only her boss at the veterinarian clinic, but her best friend. Sure, Flynn O'Grady is attractive and the nicest guy around, but going there with him would topple both of their carefully constructed worlds and there would be no going back. Even if he is starting to make her girly parts zing. Having been born deaf, Flynn has already felt like an outsider most of his life. Aside from his brothers, Gabby is about the only person who's gone out of her way to treat him as more than a handicap. Which is exactly why he's banked his secret attraction for his sweet, beautiful vet tech. Except his meddling family is trying to play Cupid and ruin the best thing to ever happen to him. Without Gabby, his work as a veterinarian, never mind his personal life, wouldn't flow. Determined to ignore the antics, he's secure in the knowledge she's not interested in him romantically. But then a kiss changes everything . . . and he's wondering if taking the ultimate shot at love might be worth the risk.
Tracking You, the story of Gabby Cosette and Flynn O'Grady is a delightful, touching, fun, emotional, and passionate tale about friends for life, family, small town living, and finding the happily forever after with you best friend.
I absolutely adore this series, the fact that Tracking You is as wonderful story as Puppy Love (book one) - filled with deep emotions and charming characters - was no surprise to me, but it still managed to steal my breath away with poignant, stirring storytelling. Flynn O'Grady and Gabby Cosette have been the best friends ever since they first time met, in kindergarten. The connection they have is unique, their lives have twined together into a beautiful, harmonic balance over the years. The attraction they have for each other is better left untouched, there is no need to rock the boat, right?! What I loved the most about Flynn and Gabby is how they never let the other one feel ignored, how they see each other to the core of the other's being, not the disabilities or handicaps, but the person inside. They celebrate that person, they take care of each other, they constantly look out for each other. It's like the other person's happiness is their own, fulfilling their needs, making themselves complete as long as the other is happy. And this symposium is truly working for them. You can imagine the spark, the fireworks they create when they finally dare to act upon the attraction and deeper feelings that have been building up inside them nearly all their lives. And the inferno they fall into when things don't work as they hoped and when the people's discrimination and doubts against handicapped are voiced, when for the first time ever they have to ignore the other to survive the heartbreak. The O'Grady brother's bond is as strong as ever. I love the fun banter between them. They are always there for each other, either to give hell or support, whatever is needed. Flynn's connection to little Hailey is so tender and poignant, it had me in tears. Overall the dialog is delicious, I was constantly anticipating what on earth comes out of their mouth's the next time. Confession - I read the book twice. I just started over when I finished the first time. Honestly, I'm blown away with the connection I feel to this series and to these characters. It is the earnest love, care, and consideration they have for each other, how their enjoy life, living, and loving. How deeply they feel both joy and sadness, and how well those feelings are balanced in the tale. There is a great energy of acceptance and approval within the tight circle of friends and family. If there is one thing a reader can take home from this story it is the fact that we all have handicaps, each of us is disabled in one way or other, but not to focus on those things that might make us less than 'perfect' but celebrate what we are, who we truly are inside. I said at the end of Puppy Love that I was in awe of the story, well folks, that wonderment has not worn off. I am in love and highly anticipating for the series to continue. Can I give more than five spoons for this one?! ~ Five Spoons!
Gabby Cosette smoothed her hand down the simple baby blue sundress she meticulously picked out for this evening and tried not to look too eager. Or throw up. That wouldn’t do either.
From a back booth, she glanced around the only Italian restaurant in Redwood Ridge, comforted by the fact it was still early yet for the dinner rush. The place was a good choice. Right? Not as casual as Shooters—the bar she and her friends frequented—but not as formal as one of the seafood restaurants that dotted their Oregon coastal town. A step above grabbing coffee or a beer, yet it didn’t scream desperation. Was a booth in the back too obvious? Had she overdone it with her makeup? Maybe she should’ve put her hair up instead of down? No, no. She went for light and natural on purpose. The patrons of Redwood Ridge had known her all her life. It wasn’t far out of the realm of ordinary for her to wear a dress and light cosmetics. She was being a basket case. It’s just… Well, she hadn’t had a date in a year. A year! To calm her nerves, she drew in a deep breath and focused on the red checkered tablecloth. A votive candle flickered on the windowsill to her right, the flame reflecting off the tinted glass. The parking lot stretched beyond, where her date’s car was not in one of the available spots. It was silly to get this worked up over a first date, especially with Tom. She’d gone to elementary and high school with him. His parents still lived down the street from hers. Strange how he’d never shown any interest in her romantically, yet out of the blue, he’d asked her out this week. Then again, most everyone in town viewed her as the sweet Cosette girl, everyone’s friend. Thus the no date in a year. It was hard to get a guy to think about kissing her, never mind imagining her naked, when she had platonic all but tattooed on her forehead. The waitress strolled over in her apron, holding a notepad in her hand. “Are you waiting on someone, sweetie pie?” “Yes.” She smiled and grabbed her cell on the table. Tom was five minutes late. “He should be here any minute.” “Ooh. Is it a date?” Mavis planted a hand on her plump waist and grinned, the wrinkles around her eyes growing to crevices. Gabby wasn’t sure how old Mavis was, no one really knew, but she never seemed to age past the state from when Gabby was a child. Gabby opened her mouth to answer, but Tom strode toward her, weaving around tables and plopping in the seat across the booth. “Couldn’t find ya at the bar. I wasn’t expecting a table.” It was still early, and Le Italy didn’t get that crowded even on a Friday night. How hard could it possibly have been to locate her? “Give us a sec,”she told Mavis and waited for her to step away. Tom had blond hair too short for her preference and a thin mouth. His unremarkable brown eyes darted around the restaurant and back to her. He made no attempt to apologize for being late, and it appeared as if he’d just come from work. His jeans and T-shirt were paint-splattered. The hazard of working for his dad’s commercial painting and roofing company. “Thanks for meeting me.” He took off his ball cap and scratched his head. Why did that sound un-date-like? “Um…sure thing. How’s work going?” Her gaze dipped to his hands, no better off than his clothes. Maybe she should’ve picked Shooters after all. Something felt very, very off as her belly twisted. Not with nerves this time. Confused, Gabby’s mind scrolled through their conversation from earlier in the week when he’d brought his dog into the vet clinic where she worked. As he was checking out, he’d anxiously spun around to face her and asked if she could meet him. “Good. Work’s good.” He put his hat back on and glanced outside. “Getting to be warmer out, so the jobs are picking up.” Perhaps he was just nervous, too. Her tension drained a degree. Mavis returned and asked for a drink order. Tom lifted his hand to wave her off. “Nothing for me, thanks. I can’t stay long. Got a poker game with the guys tonight. I need to shower before they show up.” The forced smile Gabby had plastered on her face began to wilt like her mom’s petunias in August. What did he mean he couldn’t stay long? And why would he ask her out and schedule a card game on the same night? Plus, he could shower for his friends, but not her? Mavis divided her gaze between them, a mix of bewilderment and irritation lifting her brows. She tapped her pen to her pad as the silence hung. “Can I get you something?” She focused on Gabby, her tone indicating she should order something. “I’ll have a sweet tea. Thank you.” When the waitress walked away, Gabby looked at Tom. He’d thrown his arm over the back of the booth and had stretched his legs out. The aroma of Eau de Paint Thinner wafted across the table. “So…?” “Right, right.” Tom leaned forward and crossed his arms. “I appreciate you letting me do this in person.” She stilled. “Do what?” Because she was definitely getting the this-is-not-a-date vibe now. A warring shift in contradiction took over her body. Everything inside grew rapidly chilly while her skin heated in what she hoped wasn’t a blush. Her pale complexion always gave away her emotions and she hated that more than she’d hated freshman algebra. Math was evil. He let out a tense laugh, which sounded more like a guffaw, and drew several heads from other diners. “Not exactly a conversation you want to have over the phone or somethin’, ya know?” No. She didn’t know. “Maybe if you just tell me?” He played with the parmesan shaker, not meeting her gaze. “Well, the whole town’s buzzing about Rachel and Jeff’s split.” She frowned, not connecting the dots on his crazy pattern. Her older sister had only dated Jeff for a few weeks which, per Rachel standards, might as well have been marriage. Rachel liked to keep her options—and legs—open. Guilt immediately consumed her for the crass thought, but it didn’t make it any less true. She and Rachel couldn’t be any more different. Rachel was aloof and sexy. Gabby was the girl next door. Men desired Rachel. The only thing they desired from Gabby was a shoulder to cry on after her sister shot them down. She twirled a strand of hair around her finger to keep from fidgeting. “I don’t understand what Rachel and Jeff have to do with…” Unable to finish the sentence—because she had no idea anymore what “this” was—she waved her hand between them. “Well,” he said in an aw-shucks kind of way that made her want to grind her teeth, “now that Rachel’s available, I thought maybe you could put in a good word for me?”
Bestselling author Kelly Moran says she gets her ideas from everyone and everything around her and there’s always a book playing out in her head. No one who knows her bats an eyelash when she talks to herself, and no one is safe from becoming her next fictional character. She is a Catherine Award-Winner, Readers Choice Finalist, Holt Medallion Finalist, and earned one of the 10 Best Reads by USA Today's HEA. She is also a Romance Writers of America member. Her interests include: sappy movies, MLB, NFL, driving others insane, and sleeping when she can. She is a closet caffeine junkie and chocoholic, but don’t tell anyone. She resides in Wisconsin with her husband, three sons, and two dogs. Most of her family lives in the Carolinas, so she spends a lot of time there as well.
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The Rancher's New Family
Rachel Perez needs a handyman to spruce up her in-home day care. So when she "wins" ex-soldier Seth Howell in a bachelor auction, she's glad he can swing a hammer. But when freewheeling Seth suddenly inherits a two-year-old and a sprawling ranch, he's got to grow up fast. Seth admires Rachel's kindness and easy way with kids, so he seeks her help in finding his footing as a father. And single mom Rachel sees how determined Seth is to do right by little Caden. Between his toddler and her teenager, they've got plenty of responsibilities. Finding time for love seems out of the question—but soon they're forging a new family…together.
The Cowboy's Baby Blessing is a delightfully sweet and thought provoking story about parenting, community, learning to set God in the center of your everyday life, and about romance, about falling in love, and finding that soulmate in unexpected moments of your life.
The challenges, the worries, the trials, and triumphs of being blessed with a child are highlighted and laid out so that it is easy to understand what it can take to be a parent, a single parent in particular. The eye-opening thought of the community rallying around the parent facing that task alone, and supporting them and helping them is a message I wish more people got on their hearts. Seth Howell has his life planned out after his career in the military. But life does not always go as we plan it, and Seth faces the biggest challenge of his life by being a parent and running a ranch. I loved watching Seth bond with the baby, how fast the deep roots of his feelings towards that little sunshine took hold, and how he was willing to do anything to make him happy, to take care of him, and provide for him. Rachel Perez is a key person to help Seth to step into the new role in his life as a rancher and father to a toddler. Rachel's faith in God, her willingness to serve the community with kindness and thoughtfulness, and always putting the Lord in the middle of her everyday life catches Seth's attention, as he struggles with his faith in God and God's guidance in his life. Rachel is a true example of a superwoman. She has brought up a beautiful young lady on her own, she runs her own successful business. She is a kind and considerate person, charming and charismatic. The connection between Rachel and Seth is immediate and tangible. They got each other, they understand each other, they compliment each other with their abilities and talents. Yet with everything else going on with their lives at the moment, romance is the last thing they could think about. I liked that Seth was a few years younger than Rachel, yet it was not made into a big issue. A lot of living, loving, and life are fit into the book, the story is enthralling, inspiring, a gentle reminder to always be kind to each other, find forgiveness in your heart, and understanding to your neighbors' demands with life's challenges. ~ Four Spoons
She's become his whole world...and she's under fire
Ever since forensics analyst Shaye Mallory survived a police-station shootout, Detective Cole Walker has felt personally responsible for her wellbeing. Then another shooter takes aim at Shaye. Cole decides the only thing he can do is stay right by her side until he finds the man who wants her dead. Cole knows that he must set aside his attraction to Shaye if he's going to do his job. But as the days--and nights--go on, it becomes harder and harder to resist his feelings. And, as danger moves ever closer to them both, Shaye realizes that her safety might cost her the life of the man she loves.
Imminent and constant danger, explosive moments of deadly action, and the sweetest, adorable romance that had me smiling lured me into the story, and held the interest all through the tale, could not put it down until I was done.
The Lawmen: Bullets and Brawn have won me over. I enjoyed this second installment of the series immensely. The connection Cole Walker has with his brothers of heart, the men who he grew up with in the foster care system, is nothing short of amazing. The loyalty and support they have for each other is admirable, mixed with the banter and teasing, and they are closer than many brothers with blood-tights. Cole is a protector. He is an honest, solid man, with honorable character. He looks after those he cares about, he loves deeply, and he always aims to do his best. Impossible not to admire and love! Shaye Mallory is determined to stand on her own again. A shooting at the parking lot took her courage previously, but only temporarily. She is back, she is determined, a force to be reckoned with, and another incident is not going to put her into hiding again. Cole fell for Shaye with the first sight, two years ago. And the feelings were mutual. And it is really cute and all kinds of adorable that everyone around them is aware of their feelings, the gentle friendship that has formed between them. The attraction is palpable, yet they haven't taken the steps to make their friendship into something more. And now it might be too late. I liked that they had a good, solid foundation, friendship, to build the possible relationship on, making that much more authentic and believable. The suspense is intense, vivid, and fatal. The frustrating lack of clues, the impossible task to find the leads, the fear of losing the battle, losing Shaye, it is tangible in the air. There is a satisfying balance between action, investigation, and romance in the story. It is well written and has a smooth flow in it, alluring the mind, and charming the reader. I can't wait read the book three in the series, I am hooked! Highly recommended series! ~ Five Spoons
ELIZABETH HEITER likes her suspense to feature strong heroines, chilling villains, psychological twists, and a little bit (or a lot!) of romance. Her research has taken her into the minds of serial killers, through murder investigations, and onto the FBI Academy’s shooting range. Her novels have been published in more than a dozen countries and eight languages; they've also been shortlisted for the National Readers' Choice, Daphne Du Maurier and Booksellers' Best awards and won the RT Reviewers' Choice award.
Elizabeth graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in English Literature. She’s a member of International Thriller Writers, Mystery Writers of America and Romance Writers of America. WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
Hot, Deadly Desire
By: Judy H Releasing May 26, 2017 Self-Published
Cinnamon Monroe is a Dallas Police Detective who is relentlessly hunting the sadistic murderer whose latest victim was her best friend, Katie. As she relentlessly tracks the maniac intent upon turning Dallas streets red with innocent blood, the devil continues to be one step ahead of her…maddeningly just out of reach. She’s a cop teetering on the brink with a monumental score to settle, and she won’t be stopped until she brings Katie’s killer to justice—one way or the other.
Dane Nicholson is a successful man with an enviable job, social position and a bright future. However, few know of the horrors his past holds—a past threatening to intrude upon and destroy his carefully crafted existence. The last thing he’s looking for, or can afford right now, is a serious relationship. However, when a chance meeting leads him to Cinnamon, he can’t quell the crippling attraction between them, and it seems neither can she. Danger lurks around every corner, but even that won’t keep him from the beautiful, mysterious woman who might be the best thing that’s ever happened to him—if only he dare take the chance and let her into his dangerous world. Cinnamon has terrible secrets of her own. She’s a woman with a devastating past that has haunted her for thirteen years. For good reasons, she doesn’t trust men; however, upon meeting Dane, unexpected passion sparks, ignites and threatens to burn her alive, causing her to remarkably contemplate lowering her guard and letting Dane into her battered heart. Once she’s bared her soul to him, the unthinkable happens when irrefutable evidence is uncovered which points to Dane being the killer she’s hunting! Has fate pulled the cruelest joke of all by making her fall for the one man she can never have—a sadistic serial killer who butchered her best friend? Can she and Dane survive their hot, deadly desire, or will it incinerate them, leaving nothing but tattered ashes in its wake?
Mysterious, frustrating crimes with absolutely no clues left behind, secretive characters who would rather leave their past unrevealed, and cryptic storytelling with just hints of the truth revealed at the time set an intriguing scene for the tale of sex, murders, and family secrets.
Cinnamon Monroe is a headstrong, stubborn, and determined detective who is willing to play dirty to get what she wants. Her motives to find the killer run deep and personal, her whole life in an emotional upheaval after losing her best friend. Dane Nicholson seems like just another successful man, at the top of his career, with a loving and attentive mother. But the truth is something different, something dark, sinister, and maybe better left unrevealed. The story has a very grim, dark, and gloomy atmosphere throughout. All the characters seem to live with hidden depths to them, things better left unraveled, very mysterious matters. They cross the lines of professionalism and propriety without another thought. The story has graphic sex scenes, it has violent scenes, attacks against women told from the culprit's point of view, it has gloom and murkiness to it. Yet as the story progress towards the end, there comes unexpected lightness to the tale, sudden solutions, maturing characters, even gentle hope, and happiness. A provocative and curious story that delve into the darkness of the human mind ~ Three Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
“Come here often?” she asked, picking up her drink and taking a sip.
“Sometimes.” Serious eyes studied her carefully guarded ones and he inquired, “You? I haven’t seen you here before.” “I’ve been here once or twice,” she noncommittally replied. “I’m glad I saw you tonight.” “Why’s that?” she questioned. Leaning an elbow on the bar top behind her, she unwittingly enticed the man’s intense eyes to dart to the low V of her sleeveless white blouse. She was acutely aware of the tantalizing glimpse of cleavage her movement exposed when his burning eyes lingered on her skin for breath-robbing seconds, before slowly raising to pin her with another intense stare. Jesus. She felt…singed from the heat emanating from his expressive blue eyes. Sitting up straighter, she tried to ignore the blinding blast of lust his proprietary perusal ignited in her. His fingers drummed lightly on the bar top and he answered, “For the same reason you’re glad I’m here.” “Would you care to explain that rather conceited statement?” A perfectly arched eyebrow rose slightly, but the airy quality to her voice ruined the chastising effect she was striving for. “It’s unnecessary.” He nonchalantly shrugged before insisting, “You know what I meant.” “Oh, I do?” He was arrogant, perceptive and sure of himself. He intrigued her, and more importantly made her feel something other than pain or blinding fury. Bingo. With a smirk she challenged, “Really?” “Yes, really.” He took another gulp of his drink and crunched noisily on a piece of ice. Green eyes zeroed in on his slightly smirking mouth, and she insanely wanted to know what it—he—tasted like. She envisioned the decadent pleasure it could give her, sliding, biting and sampling every inch of her too-long deprived body. His expression was wicked when their eyes met again informing her he was somehow aware of her salacious thoughts. “What’s your name?” She sipped her drink to cool herself down, and then amusedly tagged on, “Or is that taboo?” “I’m Dane,” he quickly supplied, treating her to a full-on gorgeous smile that revealed straight white teeth. “And you are?” “Cin.” “As in original sin?” His smile turned absolutely criminal and caused the unfamiliar burning in the pit of her stomach to flame almost out of control. She felt stripped naked before him. He made her smoldering flesh want to combust—made her want to merge with him in every clandestine way possible. Damn. What was it about this man that completely obliterated her sense of decorum? “No, as in short for Cinnamon,” she finally answered his question. “Cinnamon?” He paused before slowly repeating, “Cinnamon.” She grew hotter watching his mouth deliberately form the syllables. She had detested her name since she was old enough to comprehend it. However, the way his deep baritone voice articulated it, the way he caressed every syllable, was enough to make her change her mind. He smiled and approved, “It suits you.” “I never thought so.” “Sure it does.” Dane picked up a piece of ice from his drink and unexpectedly placed it between her full burgundy lips. “Spicy. Hot.” His voice dipped seductively low as he whispered, “Desirable.”
1. Describe yourself in five words or less.
Tenacious, fun, grounded, creative and resilient. 2. Favorite writing place. My back porch. 3. What are 5 things you must have with you when you write? My laptop, a little background noise, something to drink (not the hard stuff, lol; just something to wet my whistle), my cellphone nearby, and a digital recorder (because sometimes my mind thinks faster than I can type). 4. Can you tell us a little about your book? Hot, Deadly Desire is what I like to call an erotic romantic suspense. It’s about a tough, haunted police detective, Cinnamon, tracking a sadistic serial killer who’s just killed her best friend, and the too-good-to-be-true man (Dane), she picks up in a bar. They both agreed to a one-night stand; however, they quickly become entangled in hot steamy desire and heart-pounding danger. 5. Name one thing you won’t leave home without. My phone. 6. Name three things on your desk right now. My laptop, my desktop and my phone. 7. A la Twitter style, please describe your book in 140 characters or less. Cinnamon (a homicide Detective tracking a serial killer) meets Dane (a man who unleashes her hidden desires) but is he the killer she seeks? 8. Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans? Thank you for giving me and Hot, Deadly Desire a chance. I appreciate your support more than I can ever say.
Judy H. is a romantic at heart, but she likes a little mystery and even a bit of danger in her books. She wants her stories filled with hot, heavy passion, blistering sex and flawed characters you like to root for and sometimes hit upside the head!
Her heroines are smart, savvy, and self-sufficient. Her heroes have to be strong, somewhat mysterious, and maybe even a tad dangerous. When her hero and heroine meet, spontaneous combustion occurs. She's a southern girl who enjoys cooking and eating, reading, and of course writing. She keeps a digital recorder by her bedside and in her purse because she never knows when an idea will strike, and she has to be ready to answer the call whenever it comes. Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
Mr. Rook
Rook's Island #1 By: Mimi Jean Pamfiloff Releasing June 13, 2017 Self-Published
He’s Enigmatic, Dangerously Handsome, and COMPLETELY OFF-LIMITS…
The women who vacation on Mr. Rook’s exclusive island are looking for one thing and one thing only: to have their wildest romantic fantasies come to life. Pirates, cowboys, billionaires—there’s nothing Rook’s staff can’t deliver. But when Stephanie Fitzgerald’s sister doesn’t return after her week in paradise, Stephanie will have to pose as a guest in order to dig for answers. Unfortunately, this means she’ll need to get close to the one thing on the island that’s not on the menu: the devastatingly handsome and intimidating Mr. Rook. And he’s not about to give the island’s secrets away.
PROLOGUE
My name is Stephanie Fitzgerald. I am twenty-six years old, London born, New York raised, and I know exactly three things about my current situation. One: I am an imposter riding on this private jet carrying myself and eleven other women to an island “paradise.” Two: I have no clue what I will find when I disembark, because this exclusive resort doesn’t exactly advertise. Three: I will be fired if I don’t return home with concrete information regarding Mr. Rook, the mysterious owner of the island. And when I say I’ll be fired, I really mean that my body will be thrown down a deep dark well by a bad, bad man. Those three things, however, don’t really matter. Only finding my sister does. Because the last place Cici was seen alive is here, “Fantasy Island.” Yep, that’s what some people actually call it. Some even say the show in the ’80s was based on this place. Sure. If your fantasy is to disappear, leaving your family an emotional train wreck, then okay, I concede the point. Regardless, this is where Cici went after winning a mystery dream vacation in the back of some travel magazine, and it’s touted as the real deal. You pay fifty K. They make your wildest fantasies come true. One week in Heaven. Heaven, my ass. As the tires hit the wet landing strip and the plane slows to a crawl, I glance out the tiny oval window to my left, and my breath hitches. Standing among the lush vegetation lining the runway is a tall man with square shoulders. He’s looking right at me, and those eyes—so predatory, so cold—are the only thing I can really see of him. I blink, and he vanishes like a wisp of steam. Fuck. What was that? A hard shiver slams through me as I realize I have no clue what I’ve just gotten myself into. Because I am one of the next happy guests at Mr. Rook’s private island, where “Every woman’s fantasy is our business.” And not everyone comes home from vacation.
MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling romance author. Although she obtained her MBA and worked for more than fifteen years in the corporate world, she believes that it’s never too late to come out of the romance closet and follow your dream. Mimi lives with her Latin Lover hubby, two pirates-in-training (their boys), and the rat terrier duo, Snowflake and Mini Me, in Arizona. She hopes to make you laugh when you need it most and continues to pray daily that leather pants will make a big comeback for men.
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
5 WINNERS
1 Grand prize winner gets: Red Butterfly Sterling Silver Pendant + Signed Copy of Mr. Rook + Magnet and Bookmark 1 Runner up gets: Paradise Coloring Book + Signed Copy of Mr. Rook + Magnet and Bookmark 3 Runners up get: Signed Copy of Mr. Rook + Magnet and Bookmark 5 EXTRA chances to win an iBooks digital copy
The Right Ranger
The Men of At Ease Ranch #3 By: Donna Michaels Releasing June 12, 2017 Entangled Lovestruck
Haley Wagner’s life just got a lot more complicated. As if turning her struggling ranch around isn’t tough enough, she’s forced to call him for help. With his hard eyes and even harder body, Cord is an irritatingly sexy contradiction of hot and cold. How can she possibly hide her embarrassing secret when just looking at Cord is a combustible event?
Former Army Ranger Cord Brannigan has a secret, too. He promised his fallen teammate he’d protect the tempting, fiercely independent Haley from a distance, but now they’re stuck together for three weeks. Alone. Keeping his hands off will take every ounce of control he can muster. And that control is slipping…
Yes, I confess, I am in love with the Men at Ease Ranch, both as a series and as individual characters! And not even because of the hot ranger cowboy thing going on there, even if it does help, but because of what they stand for, because of who they are, what they are doing, and how they are willing to do the hard things, be the leaders, take care of their brothers and sisters in arms even after the service, that is what matters to me.
When you add Donna Michaels' style of writing; the mix of subtle humor and laugh out loud funny things, the smooth flow of the tale with the stories finely balanced with romance, sexy times, conflicts, and angst, and it is no wonder Men at Ease Ranch is a series I eagerly anticipate with new installments. That's enough fangirling for now... Haley Wagner and Cord Brannigan has that spark, that energy, that special connection that binds people together, that draws them to each other. They have had it for years, but there was that little problem of Haley's husband, one of Cord's best friends and ranger buddies. Because Cord is an honorable, honest, kind, and considerate, the fact that his friend has been dead for two years, is still a hindrance to him to pursuit Haley. Haley's heart and self-esteem have been crust before and she is not ready to experience that again anytime soon. But the attraction she feels for Cord isn't something she can hide, even though acting upon it could backfire. Haley is a fierce, strong, and independent woman who has spunk and loyalty. Even if her husband did her wrong, she still protects his secrets to save the image his brothers has of him. I loved Cord and Haley together, they are friends, lovers, and work mates. They see each other in a unique way, that encourages the other to be the best possible version of themselves. The feelings they have for each other are visible, tangible force in the air, and only the secrets they are holding from each other could damage the harmony they have created. I loved the story, the tension, and the symmetry of the relationship. The conflict is earth shattering yet not something that can't be fixed with hard work, communication, and forgiveness. The whole cast and crew have screen time and the characters from the previous books make appearances, yet I do believe this could be enjoyed as a stand alone if you so choose. A not-to-be-missed series that I highly recommend for all steamy romance fans, perfect summer reading! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
As soon as he cut the engine outside the barn, he heard a large crash from inside followed by a slew of curses.
Haley. With his gut knotted tight, he crossed the yard and entered on a sprint. “Haley…Jesus,” he muttered, finding her underneath a pegboard and a pile of tools. Sharp ones. Shit. “Now you show up,” she scoffed. He hoisted the peg board and tossed it aside. “What the hell happened?” “Had a fight with a wall and lost.” A smirk twitched her full lips and gleamed in her whiskey gaze. “That’s not funny.” “Damn straight.” She frowned. “It hurts like a bitch.” He ran a hand through his hair. “How the hell did you manage to knock this over?” “Quite well, actually.” Smartass. He knelt beside her and leveled his gaze on her. “That’s not what I meant, and you know it.” “Did I?” She tipped her chin and narrowed her eyes. “Hard to tell underneath all that accusation and condemnation dripping from your tone. I’m not one of your Rangers, Warlock. That hard stare of yours won’t work on me.” Christ. He didn’t need this shit. She made to get up, pushing a few tools out of the way, and that’s when he noticed the blood dripping down her arm. “Stay still,” he ordered, grasping her unharmed arm to hold her steady. “Let me have a look.” A quick inspection deemed it deep but not stitch-worthy, thank God. He yanked off his shirt and wrapped it around her arm, ignoring her gasp as he tied it tight until he could get her in the house for some proper first aid. But he didn’t want her moving until he examined the rest of her body for injuries. With his training kicking in, he ran his hands over her, noting a small cut on her cheek, another on the back of her hand, and a bruise on her other wrist, no doubt from covering her face. “You okay?” he asked, staring into her dazed eyes. “Are you hurt anywhere else?” She blinked and focused her gaze on his face, then shook her head after she opened her mouth and nothing came out. Christ. His insides twisted when he took in the mash of clippers, hammers, screwdrivers, and pliers scattered around them. She was lucky. So damn lucky. After helping her to her feet, he bent to scoop her in his arms. “W-what are you doing?” She wiggled as he carried her across the yard, trying his damndest not to notice the soft curves brushing his chest. “Taking you inside to fix your arm. Stay still.” Awareness already spread through his body, waking up parts that had no business enjoying the feel of his dead friend’s widow cradled against him. Haley grunted. “I can walk.” “Good to know,” he replied, but continued to hold her as he stepped onto the porch. “Get the door.” With a loud sigh, she reached out and twisted the knob. “Okay, you can put me down now.” “Where’s your first aid kit?” he asked, ignoring her protests. She closed her mouth and stared at him, her eyes twin pools of pissed-off brown. God, she was gorgeous. And damn, he did not need to have his arms full of her hot curves. He muttered an oath. “You can keep quiet all you want, but I’m just going to stand here and hold you until you tell me.” Even if it killed him.
Describe yourself in five words or less.
I love to entertain readers. Name one thing you won’t leave home without. My cellphone. Yep, I’m one of them. But only because I am usually waiting for an email or message from an author, publisher, editor…etc, and need to multitask my personal life errands into my day, too. What types of scenes are your most favorite to write? My favorite scenes to write are the sparring scenes between the hero and heroine. When the hero has met his match, or vice versa . There were several of those scenes in The Right Ranger. Are there certain characters you would like to go back to, or is there a theme or idea you’d love to work with? Yes, there are several characters I’d love to go back to, but shhh…don’t tell my other ones. The two that immediately come to mind are Kit Katt and Pierce DeVein from my humorous paranormal, The Spy Who Fanged Me. They are agents from different departments. She’s a black panther shifter and he’s a vampire and they’re forced to work together to bring down a dangerous gnome. Kit was by far the most fun I ever had writing a heroine. Between her can do attitude, her capabilities, and the fact she has catlike tendencies that get in the way at the most inopportune times, I would love to write another mission for her and her man/vampire. ? Can you tell us about your upcoming book? Right now, I’m writing book 4 in The Men of At Ease Ranch series. This is Vince’s book. He’s been the easygoing happy guy throughout the series, and longs to have a relationship like his buddies have found. But, it’s like they say, be careful what you wish for. He’s discovering that his idea of the ideal significant other is flawed, relationships aren’t always easy, and they come when you least expect it. He is definitely one of my fun characters to write.
Donna Michaels is an award winning, New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of Romaginative fiction. Her hot, humorous, and heartwarming stories include cowboys, men in uniform, and some sexy, primal alphas. With a husband in the military fulltime, and a household of nine, she never runs out of material to write, and has rightfully earned the nickname Lucy…and sometimes Ethel. From short to epic, her books entertain readers across a variety of sub-genres, and one has even being hand drawn into a Japanese translation. Now, if only she could read it.
Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS
Somebody Like You & Nearest Thing to Heaven
Maverick Junction Bks. 1 & 2 By: Lynette Austin Released December 4, 2012 and September 3, 2013 Forever Yours
WHEN A COWBOY MEETS AN HEIRESS…
Cash Hardeman thinks he’ll have all the time in the world to find the right woman...until he discovers he might lose the family ranch if he’s not married by his 30th birthday. So when Boston beauty Annelise blows into town on her Harley, Cash can't help wondering if she's the sexy, leather-clad answer to all his problems. Giving her bodyguards and the paparazzi the slip, heiress Annelise Montjoy comes to Maverick Junction on a mission to help her ailing grandfather. But keeping her identity hidden in the small Texas town is harder than she expected—especially around a tempting cowboy like Cash. He’s the kind of man who makes her want to spill all her secrets. Soon Annelise starts to wonder if she’s finally found the man who can love her for herself rather than her money. But will the secrets they both keep ruin their plans to ride off into the sunset together?
“You’ve got to be kidding me.”
Annelise Montjoy motored her Harley along what appeared to be the town’s main street. This was Maverick Junction? A blue Cadillac, surely old enough to be in a museum, was parked nose-in to the curb. An incredibly ugly dog sat in the front seat. Thank God, this, the final destination of her cross-country trip from Boston, was temporary. It looked like the kind of place you ran away from, not toward. If luck was on her side, she’d be out of here in a couple weeks at the most. And then a store door opened and her breath caught. Go, Texas! Look at that cowboy. So different from any of the men in her life. So…intriguing. She slowed to nearly a standstill and watched as he swiped an arm across his forehead, then dumped a grocery bag in the backseat of the old Caddy. Cracking open a bottle of water, he turned his head in her direction. Her breath hitched as his gaze ran lazily over her, her bike. Then he snagged a Styrofoam cup from inside his car and filled it before setting it on the blistering pavement for the dog waiting patiently beside him. Leaning against the faded fender, he thumbed back his battered Stetson and chugged the rest of the water. Twisting the cap back on, he tossed the bottle into the recycling bin beside the grocer’s door. Annelise pulled her bike into a parking space across the street, deliberately turning her back on the stranger. While his clothes might have been stereotypical cowboy—worn jeans, a faded T-shirt, cowboy boots, and hat—he took everything from simmer to boiling point. The jeans hugged long legs, while the shirt stretched taut across his muscled chest. There was something very alluring about him and that surprised her. He wasn’t the kind of man she was usually drawn to. He shouldn’t appeal to her. He did. Not so much as a breeze stirred. The flag on the post office hung limp, and the cheerful red, white, and blue balloons someone had hung outside a beauty salon drooped listlessly. Unable to stop herself, she peeked in the bike’s rearview mirror. Cowboy was bent over, talking to the dog. Quite a view, but she wasn’t here to admire a fine jean-clad butt. She needed something cold to drink and something light to eat. Then she’d go in search of Dottie Willis and the apartment she’d rented over the Internet. Maverick Junction, Texas. Annelise wished she was driving through, wished she could view it as simply a spot on the map where she’d stopped for lunch one summer day. Well, she’d just have to work fast.
The cowboy and the city girl
Sophie London hates Texas. The longhorns freak her out and the wide-open spaces are more unnerving than a Chicago alleyway at night. But Sophie wouldn’t miss her cousin’s wedding for the world—even if it means returning to Maverick Junction . . . and to the dangerously irresistible Ty Rawlins. A single father of rambunctious triplet boys, Ty knows trouble when he sees it—and Sophie’s got it written all over her. Yet he’s never been able to stop thinking about her, after their one brief meeting. Maybe fate is giving him a second chance. But if Ty wants Sophie to swap her stilettos for cowgirl boots, they’ll each have to face the past—together.
“Ty Rawlins has posted a no trespassing sign. My guess is he’s still in love with his dead wife.”
“There is that possibility.” “Yes, there is.” Sophie swung open the door and marched out, straight into Ty. He put his hands on her arms to steady her. “Sorry,” she mumbled. “Don’t be. My fault. I wasn’t watching where I was going.” “Ask the girl to dance, Ty.” Annelise stood behind them in the narrow hallway. “I—” He raised his hands. “That’s okay.” Sophie moved to skirt around him. “No.” He reached out, caught her hand. The jolt was instantaneous, and she knew he felt it, too, when he momentarily broke contact. “It’s all right. I don’t need to be entertained.” She heard the snap of temper in her voice but couldn’t control it. “Understood.” Ty nodded toward the jukebox. “But here’s the thing. Cash fed the machine enough coins to fill a good-size swimming pool. All those quarters. All that music. Why waste it?” He held out a hand; heat flooded her face. No way to avoid it. If she refused, she’d come off as a prickly snob. He had to think the worst of her anyway. Whatever social graces her mother’d drummed into her seemed to have flown out the window. She had no idea why he’d want to dance with an idiot, but who was she to deny him that dubious honor? “In that case, I’d love to.” She smiled, took his hand, and they walked together to the small center square reserved for dancing. She refused to so much as look at her cousin. Refused, for that matter, to meet any of the eyes in the restaurant watching them speculatively. A slow number came on and Ty turned her to him, put his other arm around her waist, and drew her in. “‘The Keeper of the Stars,’” he said quietly. “Quite a song.” Her heart hammered as Ty very skillfully swept her along to the music. It was different from any dance she’d ever experienced. Night and day from the one she’d shared with Brawley. He’d been fun. Ty? Intense was the only word she could come up with to define the aura surrounding him. Totally unfamiliar with country songs, she listened to the words over the beating of her heart. “It was no accident me finding you…” Her temperature spiked ten degrees. He was right. The words were captivating. Intense, just like him. And, oh, so romantic. His hand holding hers was callused and strong, the one at her waist firm. Hot. Ty did not, in any way, make her think brotherly thoughts. Instead, heat pooled low. Yearnings stirred. Thoughts and desires she’d doubted she’d ever feel. The man was dangerous. She’d do well to remember that. But for now, she’d simply enjoy the moment. The dance drifted into a second, then a third. Sophie vaguely registered others on the dance floor with them, smiled when Annelise and Cash brushed past. Ty stood over a foot taller than her five-three, and her head rested on the strapping cowboy’s chest. She heard the steady beating of his heart and surprised herself by wishing the song could go on forever. She was deathly afraid she wouldn’t say no if this man wanted to park his cowboy boots beneath her bed. For one night, of course. “Sophie?” Ty’s voice whispered against her ear. “Hmmm?” “The music’s stopped.”
Lynnette Austin, a recovering middle school teacher, loves long rides with the top down and the music cranked up, the Gulf of Mexico when a storm is brewing, chocolate frozen custard, anything by Blake Shelton, Chris Young, and Thomas Rhett, and sitting in her local coffee shop reading and enjoying an iced coffee. She and her husband divide their time between Southwest Florida's beaches and Georgia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Having grown up in a small town, that's where her heart takes her—to those quirky small towns where everybody knows everybody...and all their business, for better or worse. Writing for Grand Central and Sourcebooks, she’s published twelve novels and is at work on a new series.
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Simple Affair
The International Boundaries Series Book 1
by C.R. Misty
Genre: Romantic Suspense
This is not about wandering hearts. It's not about desiring to cause trouble. This isn't about insecurity, hate or revenge on a loving partner. This isn't about a loveless marriage or a person with a screwed up moral compass.
Maybe you are confident that your own relationship is strong. Maybe you are each other's world. Maybe you have what others are trying to find. Maybe you know in a heartbeat it can change...
A marriage is put to the test. Jordan is revealing her secrets. They tried this past summer with going through fertility treatment only for it to fail. Her husband Josh has taken a second job to support them. The long hours are starting to put a strain on the relationship and Jordan often finds herself alone. One day she meets Devon online. He is charming, fun and is also a writer. Jordan knows that she likes him but dismisses the thought at first...This is a romance.
Opening
I wonder; how should I start this? I could just make up a bullshit tale of love and romance and being swept off their feet from the hands of their lover, but let’s face it that tale is told a thousand times over. Take what you will with this one, this could be a real story or very much just another made up one. I will let you decide in the end either way I will never confirm it; so here goes. 2014 was the year of change for me. I was making my dreams happen. I had two goals for the New Year, one to become a published author and two to become a mother. The first of my goals happened, right now as I write this I am an author, and the second is still a work in progress I am afraid to say. This was not the end of the story, it was only the beginning and I had no way of seeing this one coming or even preparing for it. Everything that I thought I knew and that I loved would soon come into question. I am not a bad person, but I believe after you read this some of you will hate me for what I did. My name is Jordan Connor. I am thirty one years old and have been married for coming up on seven years to Josh. We have good careers, a nice house and two cars. To everyone we lead a normal happy life. We laugh together, play together, make love twice a week and really have no major worries to throw our world out of balance. Sure we fight, every couple does and it would be weird if we didn’t. When I went into this marriage I knew that starting a family would be difficult. Josh has had a bad hand dealt to him in terms of health and to make a long story short, he will never father a child. At the time being a twenty four year old that was completely in love with her husband to be I had no problem with it. I wanted to enjoy my twenties and focus on myself, my friends, this marriage and concentrate on getting myself established into a great career before even contemplating bringing a child into the mix. So the plan was at thirty, I would seek medical help in order get pregnant. Thirty came and went and I never so much as tried. Why you may ask. Back in 2013, Josh had lost his job and we ran out of money. We needed to wait, so in the time being I did the things that made me happy. I spent time with my mom and dad, spent the weekends at camp with the extended family and did a lot of reading at the beach. Back then I had been thinking about it, writing a story, why not. I had nothing to lose, I could write a better story than this peace of garbage that I am reading now, and so my first attempt at writing began and this new found hobby started a chain of events.
Deeply Bound
The International Boundaries Series Book 2
Romance, success & wealth but at what cost? Deeply Bound is the second book in the International Boundaries Series which follows Jordan, a woman who is on a journey in making her dreams become a reality. Gains in her writing career and personal life are falling into place though not in the traditional manner, she has taken the bull by the horns, and this game of lies that she is playing, will it catch up to her? Can she continue down this path, the rewards are good but at what cost?
My Assumptions
Here we are you the reader and I the storyteller. Since you are reading this, my assumption is that you can see where I am coming from or that this story is like looking at a train wreck where you cannot turn away. Well I promise you this that I have succeeded in gaining everything I wanted with keeping two lovers. One is a secret from the other. Devon gave me a fair chance in getting me pregnant without compromising our lives. I am over the morning sickness faze and I am no longer as tired as I found myself in the beginning. I plan to tell the family soon since I am now passed that delicate stage and I couldn't be happier. I always knew that Josh was in my corner rooting for me. I admit that he struggled with the fact that he couldn't contribute in the way that a husband should to this pregnancy. It took some time and he was always there by my side attending the doctor appointments until finally it worked. He doesn't know that I went to another for help. He has no knowledge of Devon, nobody does and I plan to keep it that way. You already know my thoughts on the matter. You are probably wondering what has gone on in the last three months, let me fill you in. Josh and I are doing great. Our relationship is on good solid ground. It took some work but I am happy to say that we are now enjoying our time that we have together. Josh is still working lots of overtime but in the time that we do have we make the effort not to fight and work on making the effort to do things together. We put our phones down and pay attention to one another. We play video games, watch movies, cook and clean. I have to admit that the sex has become amazing. We try different things, new positions and he has even started going down on me. It had been something that he had stopped doing for years. I love Josh and I know in my heart that he has fallen in love with me all over again. In terms of my career, work is work, what can I say. The department that I work for is currently downsizing its staff, which means they have cut back on the temporary staff. I don't need to worry as my job is secure. I am permanent but with the reduction in staff, the workload has increased significantly. Everyone that I work with is feeling the extra burden and office life has been a challenge. Colleagues, including myself have been unhappy and it is hard to stay positive when being dumped on with crap in every direction. I know that I need to keep my chin up for the months that I have left before I go on maturity leave and I hope when after I return from the leave the atmosphere will be better. I have learned not to dwell on the negative and instead hope for the positive, which is easier said than done. I still haven't caught that break on my published book. It is getting steady viewings, downloads and purchases but I haven't seen that upswing when a book takes off and launches an author into stardom. I am still hopeful that my time will come because I am steadily receiving good reviews from complete strangers, which always does bring a smile to my face when I read them. I believe that things come in time and I trust that good things will come. Devon, my secret is back at his home in Texas doing great. He is one funny guy I tell yah. He wanted to know if I did get pregnant and you already know that I told him. Even though he is just a friend, he couldn't be more thrilled and he is confident that it was his own that made it work. It’s nice to know that I have him in my corner and I am happy to have shared time with such an awesome man. I feel the same with it being his but I won't know for sure until I see the baby because of that small chance that the donor sperm worked. We are still the best of friends and talk pretty well every day and today is no different every time I have something that I am itching to share Devon is the first to know and today is no different.
Something Desired
The International Boundaries Series Book 3
Releases June 20th, 2017!!
Jordan has reached her career goals as an author and dreams come true with the arrival of a sweet baby girl. She realizes that goals are not everything and that gaining one thing causes other things that were good in her life to suffer. The man that at one time would do anything to make her happy now questions their relationship. Her close friend Devon is going through tough times and Jordan is to blame. The attention that her writing career has gained for her attracts unwanted media attention that looms over her, her family and friends. Everything is unraveling...
Nice Guys
Here we are you and me. My words on the page as you take them in, digest them and form your opinions. I am surprised and to be quite honest shocked but in another breath am thankful that you have been with me and taken the time to read a cheater's side of a story, my story. I needed to confide in you. I am a liar and an adulteress and don't deserve the life that I have. I admit that. What's the saying, nice guys always finish last? It seems that way. This world seems to be full of liars and the better you are at it, it seems the more successful you become. Pretend, act and lie. I smile through my teeth to the onlookers, faking my supposed perfect life but I know that you see through it. All of that has gotten me everything that I have wanted, my marriage, my secret lover, my baby and my publishing deal which stemmed from a memoir of lies. I sit here on the sofa and gaze out the window to see the light, cotton like snowflakes fall from the sky here at my home in Canada. It is weeks before Christmas and the baby is due to be born soon. I feel and look huge. My appointments with the doctor have been good. Everything is on track and they believe that this baby will come right on the scheduled time. This past weekend my mom threw a baby shower for me. It wasn't a surprise, I knew that she would. With every woman's first born it seems to be the standard. My mom hosted the party at my new home which was great. My new place is large spacious and the bonus is I got to show everyone my new place. It was actually smart also because at the end of the day there was no need to pack up all the gifts into a car. I could just move everything up to the nursery which I was proud to show off to everyone. I invited the girls from work in addition to my mom and sister, Adrianne inviting my high school friends and the family and it was fantastic to be able to catch up with them. Over the last bit of time I have stayed home for the most part, taking care of myself, modeling the home to my liking, working on my writing and social media. I have been busy but life now is so much more different. There is no need to be up before the sun rises in order to beat traffic on the way to work. There is no office politics that I need to endure. There are no pointless meetings, the kinds that senior management would have just to waste everyone’s time in order to make them feel important. There is no running out of email space because you are receiving fifty a day with huge attachments. No fighting with the shredder and the office printer and no need to have to constantly defend your decisions.
C.R. Misty has been writing novels since 2013 and The International Boundaries Series is her first collection of romance novels. “Something Desired” will be the third book to the series. She’s kind of nerdy but that’s okay cause she owns it and admits that she loves reading, writing and watching a good story. She also writes in sci-fi. Other hobbies are painting, gardening and exploring a new hiking trail. She lives with her ruggedly handsome husband and cute Maltese fur baby in Ottawa, Canada which is a really cold place. (she should move somewhere warmer)
Forbidden Desire
Pirate's Prize #3
by Tina Donahue
Genre: Historical Romance
Pub Date: 12/5/17
In paradise, the only limits to passion lie in your imagination…
After a life filled with hardship, landing on a lush tropical isle is heaven on earth for mariner Heath Garrison. And it comes complete with two angels who bring out the very devil in him. Identical twins Netta and Aimee are guileless and seductive, living and loving without jealousy. Days of longing, nights of carnal bliss make choosing one over the other seem impossible, but hungering for both sisters is taboo.
Aimee and Netta’s devotion to each other helped them survive the vicious pirates who overran their home. Will a virile Englishman come between them now? When their enemies return, determined to vanquish the islanders for good, Heath races to save them along with his countrymen. But survival will bring a choice—between the life Heath has known, and a love that changes all their destinies…
Tina Donahue is an Amazon and international bestselling novelist in erotic, paranormal, contemporary, and historical romance for traditional publishers and indie. Booklist, Publishers Weekly, Romantic Times and numerous online sites have praised her work. Three of her erotic novels (Freeing the Beast, Come and Get Your Love, and Wicked Takeover) were Readers' Choice Award winners. Another three of her erotic novels (Adored; Deep, Dark, Delicious; Lush Velvet Nights) were named finalists in the 2011 EPIC competition. Sensual Stranger, her erotic romance, was chosen Book of the Year 2010 (erotic category) at the French review site, Blue Moon reviews. The Golden Nib Award at Miz Love Loves Books was created specifically for her erotic romance Lush Velvet Nights. Deep, Dark, Delicious received an Award of Merit in the RWA Holt Medallion competition. Take Me Away captured second place in the NEC-RWA contest. And The Yearning was honored with an Award of Merit in the RWA Holt Medallion competition. She’s featured in the 2012 Novel and Writer’s Market. Before penning romances, she worked in Story Direction for a Hollywood production company.
A royal seduction
Crown prince Kristian DeSaunters has been groomed since birth to take his place as leader of his tropical kingdom—with the proper princess by his side. Never one to lose his control, he's stunned by his attraction to the free-spirited American stylist who arrives at the palace in his father's fiancée's entourage. Soon Kris and Landry Norris are sharing an instant sultry attraction that shows no signs of slowing down. Landry couldn't turn down the opportunity of a lifetime to dress the princess-to-be on a private Caribbean island. Falling for Kris is definitely not part of her plan, but the independent LA beauty soon finds herself yearning for a fairy-tale ending of her own. Until someone sets out to sabotage the upcoming nuptials—and Landry becomes the prime suspect. Will Kris and Landry be able to stop a hidden enemy bent on destroying the DeSaunters reign—and save the possibility of a future together?
With the royal flair and every fashionista dream, the author takes the readers to a tropical paradise, where dreams do come true, after some real life compromises and conflicts.
To Marry a Prince is a true modern day fairytale. Landry Norris is a stylist for the few selected customers, and her latest job - to style the future Princess. She is outspoken, independent, a modern-thinking professional woman who knows what she wants, and has her goals outlined. Not one of those goals includes a fling, or a relationship, or a prince. Crown Prince Kristian DeSaunters fell for the stylist, Landry Norris, with the first glance of her picture. He is trying to deal with the engagement of his father, with all the responsibilities he carries, with everything his title brings his way, and all he himself considers as his task to take care of, he has no time for romance, attraction, or a fling, but the pull for Landry is unavoidable. The relationship between the royal siblings is open, warm, and uncomplicated. I liked the family-centered attitude of the characters. This story is pure entertainment, with Royal events, a little danger, a little malice, and lots of love, passion, beauty, and fashion. It made me smile and the tropical scenery was just like from a dream vacation. To Marry a Prince is the first book in the series and sets the stage for the future books to come. Some of the issues happening on the island were not solved in this book, I assume they will ride through the series causing threats and conflicts to the Royal family. Beautifully picturesque mental images in a well written, smoothly flowing love story, a perfect summer read for the fashion loving romance readers! ~ Four Spoons |