Books & Spoons Tour Event for MAKING CHRISTMAS & WHAT HAPPENS AT MIDNIGHT by Laura Chapman8/11/2016
Making Christmas & What Happens at Midnight
By: Laura Chapman Releasing November 8, 2016 Self-Published
While settling into a new career in a new community, Ivy is determined not to let the holiday season pass her by. Enter the grownup advent calendar: twenty-four days of festivities to celebrate Christmas. What begins as a bit of fun turns into a mission to spread cheer when she meets Everett.
After learning about his bad Christmas attitude, she invites him to join her quest. Despite his initial reservations, Everett quickly gets caught up in the spirit of the calendar. But when new feelings surface and are impossible to ignore, Everett’s inner curmudgeon threatens to put a damper on the whole experience. This holiday novella from Laura Chapman brings the warmth of the holiday season to life.
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Romantic comedy junkie Natalie lives out those fantasies in real life three New Year's Eves in a row when fate throws her together with the same handsome stranger.
A heartbreaking turn of events leaves her swearing off of love, forevers, and the holidays (bah humbug). That is until the mystery man from her past reappears years later. Over a holiday season, Natalie struggles to reconcile the whimsical notions of her past with the practical sensibilities she has worked so hard to develop. With the countdown to a new year looming, she must decide whether or not she is willing to give happily ever after another shot. In this holiday novella by Laura Chapman, celebrate the holiday season with a love story about second, and fifth, chances and learning to trust your heart.
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From Making Christmas
“About my project,” she begins. “I’ve always loved the holiday season. Everything from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve then Christmas and New Year’s Eve—it’s a magical time. Plus, I was born on Christmas, so the holidays are extra special. But the past few years I’ve been so busy with work and . . . stuff . . . that I kind of lost track of them. It was always more important to focus on getting the next big ad campaign out than stopping to smell the sugar plums.” “Ad campaigns? You’re in advertising?” “No—not anymore.” She taps her fingers on the edge of the counter. “I left my old agency earlier this year to start an Internet-based company with my friend. We moved to Lincoln in October because it’s a welcoming place for startups. Anyways, the past few years the holidays have gone by in a hazy, chaotic blur. I want to make sure it doesn’t happen again this year. I’m going to stop and smell those sugar plums.” I almost ask what sugar plums smell like but go with a question that makes more sense. “So you’re celebrating the holidays with a Christmas coffee?” “Today,” she agrees. “Then tomorrow I’ll have another festive activity waiting for me.” She digs into her purse and removes a piece of red card stock. It’s covered with tiny green paper pockets, each neatly printed with a number counting up to twenty-four. Twenty-four. “It looks like an advent calendar.” Just like the ones my grandma gave my sister and me every Christmas until we graduated college. Her eyes light up. “That’s exactly what it is. This is my grown-up advent calendar. I saw one on Pinterest—though, they had twenty-four bottles of wine lined up in a rack to drink every day of December leading up to Christmas. I like wine, but I’m not a big fan of all the varieties, which would defeat the purpose of drinking twenty-four different wines. It also didn’t seem like the best way to celebrate the season. Do you connect binge-drinking wine with Christmas?” “No. But maybe some people do?” “I suppose, which is kind of sad. But I probably shouldn’t judge what works for other people.” She shakes her head. “Anyway, over Thanksgiving I started thinking about what I wanted to do this holiday season. Books I wanted to read. Movies I wanted to watch. Experiences I wanted to have. So I made a list. Using the list, I created a calendar with each of the items reserved for a different day. I wrote everything down on different pieces of paper. I folded them up and randomly scheduled them throughout the month. That way, I’ll be surprised every day.” “You made a random schedule? How will you know if you have time or the materials you need to do it?” “I’ll make the time.” She turns to the counter when the barista arrives with three cups. Over her shoulder, she asks, “Do you want to try gingerbread or eggnog?” I don’t know. “Eggnog.” I guess. She hands me one of the cups and takes the other two. “Actually, I do know what I’ll be doing one day because I had to buy tickets. I want to see The Nutcracker—I haven’t been since I was a little girl. But everything else will be a surprise.” I’m listening to her explanation so closely I don’t even realize we’ve stepped out of the coffee shop until the cold bites my face. She has certainly shaken up my morning routine. “Do you really think a Christmas to-do list will suddenly make the holidays better?” “I do.” She grins when I shake my head. “Do you doubt it will?” “I don’t know.” I lift a shoulder. “It seems like a stressful way to spend the month. And for what? An overly commercialized holiday that only racks up charges on our credit cards while people are starving and struggling in the world. All the while, people miss their deadlines and pile more work on your desk because you’re the single guy in the office and they have to get to their kids’ Christmas programs or go bake cookies at their mother-in-law’s house. Christmas was fun when we were kids, but as adults, it kind of sucks.” I shake my head again. “No offense to you and your plan, but most years I want to get through the month of December with as little fanfare as possible.” “Interesting.” She says nothing else but studies my face again for a couple of seconds. I nearly squirm under the intensity of her gaze. “Well, I hope you enjoy the coffee. Merry Christmas.”
Laura Chapman is the author of First & Goal, Going for Two, Three & Out, and The Marrying Type. A native Nebraskan, she loves football, Netflix marathons, and her cats, Jane and Bingley. Connect with her online on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube and on her website at www.laurachapmanbooks.com.
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A pretend engagement suddenly becomes very real…and dangerous
When Tahra Edwards sees a suspicious knapsack near a school yard, she leaps into action…and saves children from a bomb. But upon awakening in a hospital, Tahra discovers she's lost her memory—including any recollection of the handsome military captain who says he's her fiancé. A charming alpha hero who seems to be hiding something… As a high-level bodyguard, Marek Zale knows that a ruthless terrorist organization will stop at nothing to silence Tahra—his ex-girlfriend—permanently. To protect her, he must be by her side around the clock. And though he may not be telling her the truth about their engagement, their love for each other was always true…as is the danger threatening them both!
An artfully crafted tale about building trust and accepting and respecting cultural differences, located in a restive little kingdom in Europe, who is suffering from repeated terror attacks while welcoming the flow of refugees.
Even though the topic of the tale is highly political, and the environment of the story is in the heart of the power of the country, the case is presented without political influence or sides, which made the story even more enjoyable. The circumstances are dire when Marek and Tahra meet again after their previously broken engagement. The country is in an uproar and in mourning because of the repeated deadly attacks, and the only place safe to Tahra to be is close to Marek, who would protect her with his life. The connection between them is fragile yet obvious. They have to work to find the trust again and they have to work to get to know each other again because of the amnesia. Tahra has to learn the countries customs and culture again, learn to understand it to be able to accept it and respect it. I enjoyed how this process was presented, Marek and Tahra had to make an effort to find their tune again. The passion, adoration and love are certain, but could they make it work with their cultural differences, would Tahra learn to trust Marek again, was the feelings they have for each other enough to make 'forever and a day' reality to them? The suspense in the story builds up as the progress in the investigation to the attacks proceeds. The complexity of the hierarchy of the crown and the history and the culture of the country are well explained in details. The intense crescendo to the suspense is filled with high energy and deadly force. When two worlds with cultural differences stumble into each other, to find a common ground, acceptance, and respect isn't always easy or smooth. Marek and Tahra both has to make compromises and allowances to make their relationship function and to make the danger they both find themselves in ease and disappear. An engaging, thought-provoking, intriguing tale with many nuances from family values, to friends in high place, glamor, and prestige, to the basic instincts of love and protect with everything you have. ~ Four Spoons
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Award-winning author Amelia Autin is an inveterate reader who can’t bear to put a good book down…or part with it.
She’s a long-time member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), and served three years as its treasurer. Amelia resides with her Ph.D. engineer husband in quiet Vail, Arizona, where they can see the stars at night and have a “million dollar view” of the Rincon Mountains from their back yard. Connect with the author: Website Twitter
One Snowy Night
Heartbreaker Bay #2.5 By: Jill Shalvis Releasing November 8, 2016 Avon Impulse
It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.
Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south. They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last. Christmas Eve had the nerve to show up just like it did every year: way too quickly and with ridiculous fanfare. The nerve. Rory Andrews stood in the courtyard of the Pacific Pier Building in San Francisco, surrounded by sparkly holiday lights and enough garlands to give the place its own ozone, and told herself things could be worse. She just wasn’t sure how. It was the unknown, she decided. Because this year, unlike the past six, she’d be spending Christmas with her family, a thought that caused a swarm of butterflies to take flight in her belly. Not an uncommon feeling since she’d turned twenty-three a few months back and decided it was time to become a person she could be proud of if it killed her. And given the guy leaning against one of the lamp poles clearly waiting for her, arms crossed, frown in place, it just might. Max Stranton. At his side sat Carl, his huge, eternally hungry, adorable Doberman. “No,” she said, not to Carl but to Carl’s owner. Who was not lovable. “No way.” As always when their gazes locked, Max’s was a disconcerting mix of heat and . . . something else that she couldn’t quite figure out, as he was good at hiding when he wanted to be. She never quite knew how to take the heat because it seemed reluctant. He was attracted to her but didn’t want to be. Ditto. He made her knees wobble. And also a couple of other inner reactions that shouldn’t be happening in public. “Merry Christmas to you too, Rory,” he said, and damn. It wasn’t just his eyes. His voice was rough and sexy, and for that matter, so was the rest of him. He worked for an investigations and security firm in the building. Basically he and the rest of his team were fixers and finders for hire. To say that Max was good at his job was an understatement. He stood there looking like sex on a stick with a duffle bag slung over a broad shoulder, his dark hair two weeks past needing a cut, and the icy wind of an incoming storm plastering his clothes to a body that could be registered as a lethal weapon. “What are you doing here?” she asked calmly even if her heart was anything but, pounding all the way up to her throat and ears because she knew. She knew exactly why he was here. “I don’t need a ride home.” A flash of wry humor slid in with all that sizzling heat. “Because you’d rather take two buses and a train than get into my truck with me?” he asked. Well yes, actually.
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New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental.
Look for Jill's latest, SWEET LITTLE LIES on shelves and e-readers now, and get all her bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold. Visit Jill's website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
In the newest Coltons of Texas romance, a woman framed for a heinous crime falls for the man who must bring her safely home
Wrongfully accused of masterminding her adoptive father's disappearance, Piper Colton needs answers. So she leaves the family ranch behind to embark on a dangerous mission…but she's not alone for long. Her brother enlists the help of Cord Maxwell—a local bounty hunter—to ensure his sister's safe return. But Cord has an agenda of his own, and it's not just to avoid falling for the Colton beauty! He promises to help her in exchange if she'll help him track down his runaway niece—and stay with him. It's an offer she cannot resist and a powerful attraction she cannot deny…
A puzzling murder mystery to be solved, the real culprit to be caught, and family drama to be dissolved all at the same time is not too tall order for the bounty hunter Cord Maxwell. If only his aging friend wouldn't get seriously ill, he could solve the financial problems his having, find his niece and not fall for his childhood crush who happens to be in his guest room hiding from the world, he could get his work done.
Piper and Cord have a great chemistry and their connection goes way back to their childhood at the Colton ranch. Either of their childhood memories isn't all that sweet, except those shy moments they had with each other. The relationship between them is natural and easy, they boast with honesty and deliver it as well. I liked both them, the calm of their relationship was serene. The Coltons I find rather high-handed and highly annoying. I understand that in some parts of the world the class system is still alive and in practice, but I have a hard time understanding or even accepting it in the western world. Each for its own, of course, but I didn't care for their attitude. The story is good, there's little excitement about it. The mysteries are solved with few steps, the ones that are solved. The family problems with Cord were gone with a snap, the Coltons are, of corse, a different matter. Piper and Cord find a tune and their way as long as they stay focused on each other and not listening to the outside influences. It is a good, nice story, a low-key tale with little romance, little mystery, drama, living and loving, all in a small town Texas ~ Three Spoons
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A PROTECTOR FOR HER CHILD
Days away from testifying in a bank robbery and murder case, witness Kari Danville's safe house is breached, forcing her to run for her life. Scared, alone and pregnant, her only hope for survival rests in the protection of FBI agent Marc Callahan. With everyone in uniform a suspect, Marc goes rogue to keep her alive. Deep in hiding as the holidays approach, the vulnerable mother-to-be proves a dangerous distraction. But Marc can't lose another witness on his watch. As the Christmastime trial draws near, the killer stalks ever closer. And Marc must find a way to shield Kari—and her unborn baby—long enough for justice to be served.
A perfect mix of danger, action, suspense, romance, and struggles with faith and forgiveness in an exhilarating and inspiring tale that left me astound.
The intense suspense and fierce action start with a high speed from the first page and it doesn't slow down for a minute. The puzzle they have to solve to stay alive is missing some of the key pieces, and to top it off, the good guys might not be such a good guys after all. Even though the number of suspects is limited, the main culprit takes their time to be revealed, and I am ready to admit I had no idea whom of them it could have been. I loved the tightness of the bond between the brothers. They dropped everything they had going on in their own lives and careers to support and protect one of their own. Kari and Marc have an undeniable connection. They are drawn to each other, and no matter how it might not be appropriate in their situation, or even safe, the feelings between them grow and it is nearly palpable how the root of their emotions to each other take the hold. And it was so heartening and adorable how they find comfort and safety in each other's arms. This story delivers on all fronts, the suspense is sharp and perilous with high tempo, the romance is delightful and charming, the struggles and growth they experience in their faith while running for their lives is real and encouraging, as it comes clear that to move on from the past hurt, there has to be forgiveness all around. The vicious and savage ending just highlights the edgy jitters of the tale, can't wait for more in this new series! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
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Her Christmas past becomes her Christmas present!
When Dr. Emma Matthews was entrusted with the guardianship of her best friend's daughter, she promised that every Christmas would be special… But this Christmas Eve, Jack Reynolds—her old flame and Lily's uncle—has walked back into their lives. Both Emma and Jack still bear the scars of this time last year. But now Jack wants to start again — being there for his adorable niece, picking up where he and Emma left off, and giving them all the family Christmas they deserve!
If you are expecting a light and fluffy Christmas tale with lots of family fun over the holidays, you might want to keep looking, because in this category length novel the author managed to deliver an amazing tale that delivers a punch right to the heart.
The first half of the story is a tribute to all the emergency personnel who without complaining spends their holidays at work, saving lives, performing miracles, and giving more of themselves than most know. The details from the hectic unit at work are vivid, painting the picture of these everyday heroes at work, doing what they love while missing their families. And while this was an important part of the plot - Emma and Jack meeting again - it was a gentle, well-immersed reminder of the sacrifices the emergency and medical employees make, especially at Christmas time. The reunion between Emma and Jack is emotional. The loss they both suffered the previous year is still fresh in their minds. The ghosts from Jack's childhood, the tragic adolescence, losing his mother and then twin brother and sister in law, all has affected him greatly, convincing him to be unable to love, to make that kind of connection that could end with the sorrow of losing the other. I loved how open and honest both Emma and Jack were with each other. Their past connection wasn't damaged by the time apart. The allure and attraction were still there, yet it was a deep friendship that makes them find a way to communicate with each other again. The drama and tragedy aren't over in their lives. The intensity of the story, the turmoil of the feelings, the deep darkness Jack feels around him, the loss, the love, the moments of joy, it all wrapped around me, and I felt the despair, the hope, the contentment, the satisfaction. The emotional connection I had to this story was strong and unique, it squeezed my heart, captured my mind, and will stay with me for awhile. A tale filled with miracles just in time for Christmas ~ Five Spoons
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Sale Blitz for DRIVEN TO TEMPTATION by Melia Alexander & TEMPTING MR. WRONG by Kerri Carpenter4/11/2016
Driven to Temptation
Driven to Love #1 By: Melia Alexander Released June 13, 2016 Entangled Lovestruck
She’s a gorgeous distraction he can’t afford…or ignore.
Aidan Ross might be an engineering genius, but people skills? Not this soldier’s forte. Thankfully, a trusted friend is accompanying him to a make-or-break tradeshow…but then a bubbly redhead hops into his truck, claiming to be his new road trip buddy. She’s a gorgeous distraction he can’t afford. Or ignore. Delaney Harper comes from a family of engineers—maleengineers. With several impressive projects under her belt, she’s on a mission to prove she can hang with the big boys, too. But cracking the sexy, closed-off CEO is tougher than she expects…and hotter than she could have imagined. With the tempting woman disrupting his carefully planned schedule, Aidan can’t focus on the road, much less their upcoming presentation. The future of his company is riding on this trip, and if they’re to land a huge account, he has to keep his head—and his heart—in the game…
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Melia Alexander is the author of sassy, sexy, fun contemporary romances, but is also fortunate to spend her week days at The Male Observation Lab (a.k.a. her job at a construction company) where she gets to observe guys in their natural habitat. Though they often behave like typical alpha males, in many instances she's seen through their personas to the heart of who they really are - the heroes of their own stories.
A native of Guam, Melia traded in warm, tropical breezes for the rainy Pacific Northwest. She's an avid reader who also loves romantic comedies - preferably with a glass of CabSauv and a box of chocolates nearby. In her free time, she's busy conquering her CrossFit fears: ring dips, muscle snatches, and the dreaded 800 meter run. Her family appreciates her attempts at cooking and cleaning, although she spends it mostly daydreaming about her characters, which sometimes results in a burnt meal and a half-cleaned house. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Tempting Mr. Wrong
Wrong Man Series #2 By: Kerri Carpenter Released June 13, 2016 Entangled Lovestruck
A little temptation never hurt anyone…
Lance Townsend craves freedom after years living a structured existence in the Army. But just as he’s about to start on his bucket list, Lance receives an unexpected request: check in on his goddaughter. The problem? The adorable little girl’s aunt is the one woman he’s never been able to forget. Carly Quigley can’t believe her brother’s best friend, the man who jilted her years ago, is at her door. He claims her brother asked him to check in on her niece and their fixer-upper, but all either of them can focus on is their undeniable attraction. Carly knows Lance is counting down the hours to leave, which makes him the wrong man for her. Unfortunately, the wrong man has become oh-so-tempting. Each book in the Wrong Man series is a standalone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order. Series Order: Book one: Kissing Mr. Wrong Book two: Tempting Mr. Wrong
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Kerri Carpenter began writing in her grandmother's kitchen at the age of seven in a small town outside of Pittsburgh, PA. A life-long fan of reading, she got lost in the worlds of The Baby-sitters Club and Sweet Valley High. She also assumed that everyone had characters and plots forming in their heads at all times.
Once she turned to romance novels, she couldn't get enough of books with happy endings, so she started writing her own. Now, Kerri writes contemporary romances, usually set in small towns. She enjoys reading, cooking, watching movies, taking Zumba classes, rooting for Pittsburgh sports teams, and anything sparkly. Kerri lives in Northern Virginia with her adorable (and mischievous) poodle mix, Harry. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads Wild Boys After Dark & Bad Boys After Dark Wild Billionaires After Dark/Bad Billionaires After Dark By: Melissa Foster World Literary Press Everything's naughtier after dark... Meet the Wild and Bad boys, hot, wealthy, and loaded with sinful pleasure. WILD BOYS AFTER DARK: HEATH (Book 2) - FREE Indulge your inner vixen with these sexy billionaires! Meet the Wild Boys... Four fiercely loyal, sinfully sexy, uber alpha brothers, about to fall head over heels for their leading ladies. Everything's naughtier after dark... No last names. No strings. No ties. Except of the silk variety. Dr. Heath Wild and Allyson Jenner only wanted a simple tryst. But Heath couldn't live with just one night, just one taste, of Ally--and Ally couldn't escape the memory of his hands on her skin, the way he looked at her like she was his obsession, or his seduction, which had pushed her to the edge and had made her want to do things she never had before. One night leads to one tantalizing phone call. Can one phone call lead to forever? FREE FOR A LIMITED TIME Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks | Google Play WILD BOYS AFTER DARK: LOGAN (Book 1) - $1.99 SALE Stella “Stormy” Knight is an expert at hiding—her feelings, her past, and her identity. Sometimes all that hiding takes its toll, and she needs to come out from under that heavy suit of armor and cut loose—but it never takes her long to put it right back on and disappear without a trace. Navy SEAL vet turned private investigator Logan Wild is relentless in his pursuit to discover the truth for his clients. He works hard, plays even harder, and always walks away unscathed and untethered. Until he meets mysterious and sexy-as-hell Stormy, who leaves him craving more than a one-night stand. Passion ignites, secrets are shared, and their deep connection is impossible to ignore. But in order to have a future, Logan must uncover Stormy’s dark past—and when he does, he’ll hold her fate in his hands. Dive in for Only $1.99 Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks | Google Play Additional Titles in the Series Wild Boys After Dark: Jackson (Book #3) Wild Boys After Dark: Cooper (Book #4) BAD BOYS AFTER DARK : DYLAN (Book 2) – Releasing Dec 21st, 2012 Everything's naughtier after dark... Sinfully sexy bar owner Dylan Bad has a thing for needy women. He's a savior, a knight in shining armor, and his mighty talented sword has no trouble bringing damsels in distress to their knees. Enter Tiffany Winters, a gorgeous cutthroat sports agent who looks like sex on legs, f**ks like she's passion personified, and wouldn't let a man help her if she were dangling from a ledge and he was her only hope. One night and too much tequila might change their lives forever. The question is, will either one survive? Pre-Order Today Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks | Google Play Additional Titles in the Series Bad Boys After Dark: Mick (Book #1) Bad Boys After Dark: Carson (Book #3) Bad Boys After Dark: Brett (Book #4) Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance, and women's fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa's emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, perfect beach reads, and always family oriented. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Rules for a Rogue
Romancing the Rules #1 By: Christy Carlyle Releasing November 1, 2016 Avon Impulse
Kit Ruthven's Rules (for Rogues)
#1 Love freely but guard your heart, no matter how tempting the invader. #2 Embrace temptation, indulge your sensual impulses, and never apologize. #3 Scorn rules and do as you please. You are a rogue, after all. Following the rules never brought anything but misery for Christopher “Kit” Ruthven. After rebelling against his controlling father and leaving the family’s Ruthven Rules etiquette book empire behind, Kit has been breaking every one imaginable for the past six years. He’s enjoyed London’s sensual pleasures and secured his reputation as a Rogue, but he’s failed to achieve success. When he inherits his father’s publishing business, Kit is forced back into the life he never wanted. Worse, he must face Ophelia Marsden, the woman he jilted but never forgot. After losing her father and refusing a loveless marriage proposal, Ophelia has learned to rely on herself. To maintain the family home and support her younger brother, she tutors young girls in deportment and decorum. But her pupils would be scandalized if they knew their imminently proper teacher was also the author of a guidebook encouraging ladies to embrace their independence and overthrow outdated notions of etiquette like the Ruthven Rules. As Kit rediscovers the life, and the woman, he left behind, Ophelia must choose between the practicalities she never truly believed in, or the love she’s never been able to extinguish.
Before Ophelia could gather her sister and head back to the kitchen, a knock sounded at the front door. Juliet clutched her notebook to her chest and bolted back into the library.
Slipping Guidelines behind her back with one hand, Ophelia grasped the doorknob with the other. She schooled her features into a pleasant expression in case it was Mrs. Raybourn or, heaven forbid, Mr. Raybourn, in need of more reassurance their girls weren’t on the high road to ruin because of the book no one knew she’d written. When she pulled the door open, all the breath whooshed from her body. Their visitor wasn’t any member of the Raybourn family. “Kit Ruthven.” “You remember me, then?” He grinned as he loomed on the threshold, his shoulders nearly as wide as the frame. Eyes bright and intense, he took her in from head to toe, and then let his gaze settle on her mouth. When he finally looked into her eyes, the cocksure tilt of his grin had softened. She read a wariness in his gaze that matched her own. She’d spent years trying to forget those dark, deep-set eyes. “I remember you.” Her book slipped, skidding across her backside and clattering to the floor as her throat tightened on sentiments she’d been waiting years to express. None of them would come. Not a single word. Instead, in outright rebellion, her whole body did its best to melt into a boneless puddle. Gritting her teeth, Phee fought the urge to swoon or, worse, rush into his long, muscled arms. “I’m relieved to hear it.” He had the audacity to kick his grin into a smile, a rakish slash that cut deep divots into his clean-shaven cheeks. Then he took a step through her door. “I worried that—” “No.” She lifted a hand to stop him. Looking at the man was difficult enough. Hearing his voice—deeper now but achingly familiar—was too much. If he came closer, she might give in to some rogue impulse. And that wouldn’t do. That wouldn’t do at all. Ophelia swallowed hard. She needed a moment to gather her wits. To rebuild her walls. “You dropped something.” He moved toward her, so close his sleeve brushed hers. She lowered her hand to avoid touching him and jerked back when he bent to retrieve her book, watching as he turned the volume to read its title. “Miss Gilroy’s Guidelines for Young Ladies. How intriguing. Looks as though Ruthven Publishing has some competition.” Seeing him again was worse than she’d imagined. And she had imagined this moment aplenty. Far too many times. Not just on her infrequent jaunts to London but most days since they’d parted. The man had lingered in her thoughts, despite every effort to expel him. Taking a shaky breath, she braced herself and faced him. He’d always been tall. When they were children, she’d looked up to him. Literally. But he’d never used his size to bully others. More often he’d born teasing about his physique. Ungainly, his father had called him, and Kit repeated the word when referring to himself. Now he offered no apologetic hunch in his stance. He didn’t cross his arms to narrow his body. More than embracing his size, he wielded his generous dimensions with a virile grace that made Phee’s mouth water. He stood with his long legs planted wide, shoulders thrown back. His chest was so broad that she itched to touch it. Stop being a ninny, she chided herself. The most essential observation was that he did not look like a man who’d pined for her. Not a hint of guilt shadowed his gaze. He thrust his hands behind his back, and the buttons above his waistcoat strained against the fabric on either side, as if the muscles beneath were too sizable to contain. Phee’s gaze riveted to the spot, waiting to see which would win—the pearly buttons or the dove gray fabric. When sense finally wound its way into her boggled mind, she glanced up into gilded brown eyes. He was the winner, judging by the satisfied smirk cresting his mouth. Kit stood too near, close enough for her to smell his scent. A familiar green, like fresh-cut grass, but mingled now with an aromatic spice. Each breath held his spice scent heightened by the warmth of his body. The heat of him radiated against her chest. His eyes were too intense, too hungry. He perused her brazenly, studying the hem of her outdated gown before his gaze roved up her legs, paused at her waist, lingered on her bosom, and caught for a moment on her lips. Finally, he met her eyes, and his mouth flicked up in a shameless grin. She looked anywhere but at his eyes. On his neck, she noted the scar from a childhood adventure in the blackberry briar. Then she got stuck admiring his hair. Apparently his scandalous London lifestyle—if the rumors she’d heard were true—called for allowing his jet black hair to grow long and ripple in careless waves. Strands licked at his neck, curled up near his shoulders. Time had been truly unfair. The years hadn’t weathered Kit at all. If anything, his features were sharper and more appealing. His Roman nose contrasted with the sensual fullness of his lips and those high Ruthven cheekbones. And his eyes. Gold and amber and chocolate hues chased each other around a pinwheel, all shadowed by enviably thick ebony lashes. One theater reviewer had written of the “power of his penetrating gaze.” Ophelia only knew he’d once been able to see straight to her heart. Retreating from his magnetic pull, she dipped her head and stared at his polished black boots, the neatly tailored cuffs of his trousers. Black as pitch, his clothing reminded her why he was here. He’d come to the village to bury his father. He was no doubt as eager to return to London as she was to close her eyes and make the too tempting sight of him disappear. But why had he come to her home? “My condolences to you and your sisters,” she offered, and almost added Mr. Ruthven. That’s what everyone in the village would call him now, and they would expect him to live up to the name. Just as his father had. “You didn’t attend the funeral.” “Would your father have wished me to?” They both knew Kit’s father had never welcomed her presence in his life. She didn’t bother mentioning that Ruthven’s rule book explicitly instructed ladies to avoid funerals. He shrugged. “I only know what I wished.” There it was. The heart of all that had passed between them spelled out in six words. Kit had never doubted what he wanted—freedom, fame as a playwright, financial success on his own terms. Unfortunately, she’d never made it high enough on his list. “Forgive me for missing your father’s funeral. I promise to call on your sisters soon.” Ophelia slid the door toward him, forcing him to retreat as she eased it closed. “Thank you for your visit.” Pushing his sizable booted foot forward, he wedged it between the door and its frame. “I don’t think we can count this as a visit until you invite me in.”
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Fueled by Pacific Northwest coffee and inspired by multiple viewings of every British costume drama she can get her hands on, Christy Carlyle writes sensual historical romance set in the Victorian era. She loves heroes who struggle against all odds and heroines who are ahead of their time. A former teacher with a degree in history, she finds there’s nothing better than being able to combine her love of the past with a die-hard belief in happy endings.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
Drowned Sorrow
by Vanessa Morgan Genre: Suspense, Thriller, Mystery
Megan Blackwood has just lost her son in an accident. Now she has come to Moonlight Creek with her teenage daughter, Jenna, hoping that a change of scenery might help to put their lives back together.
But something odd is happening in Moonlight Creek. When rain falls over the village, its inhabitants commit grisly murders, leaving the village deserted again with the first rays of sunshine. Beneath the lake's surface, something watches... and waits... Waits to reveal a tragic past drowned in mystery and fear. One that doesn't bode well for visitors. By the time Megan realizes that her daughter's life is in danger, it may already be too late
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Vanessa Morgan is an author, screenwriter, and blogger. Two of her works, The Strangers Outside and A Good Man, have been turned into films. Her short film script Next to Her is currently in pre-production.
When she's not working on her latest book, you can find her reading, watching horror movies, digging through flea markets, or photographing felines for her blog Traveling Cats. She lives in Belgium. Goodreads Amazon Twitter Facebook Newsletter
There's no place like Marietta, Montana for the holidays, and retired Marine Lane Scott has finally, reluctantly, returned home...
...only to run into a sweet and sexy woman from his past, Felicity Danvers, who is running away from her Christmas loving momma. Lane canât resist playing the hero and sweeping Felicity out of town. He vows heâll do everything he can to make this holiday special for her. And as Christmas approaches, they discover that their love can conquer and overcome any obstacleâbut can they both trust that itâs not just Christmas magic bringing them together?
A Marietta Christmas story that went directly to my heart and made an impact with the relatable characters and peril of the every day, and every mind, issues we have to face.
Because no matter how incredible the physical connection is between two people, the minds have to connect as well. And then there are the awkward, uncomfortable moments of uncertainty and how fast and how far and what is the other one thinking... And the whole growing and developing to be a couple, a unit that works between Felicity and Lane was done so well, the insecurities were endearing, the questions revealing, and the fears and walls start to crumble at the same time as they fall fast, deep, and for ever. The whole fumble into lust and then learning to treasure and adore each other, accept the other with all the falls and fails and never give up was adorable, delightful and sexy. I smiled, sighed and even had a tear while reading because life is sometimes a mess like it was for Felicity and to see her conquer her fears from the past made me want to cheer out loud. I really connected with these characters and wanted the story to continue as I read the book in one sitting, not wanting to let go but to stay in the moment to make sure they both were in and building the foundation that their future could be build on. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
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Katherine Garbera is the USA Today best-selling author of more than 75 books for Harlequin Desire, Harlequin Blaze, Harper Impulse, Tule Publishing and Kensington Brava. Her books have been featured in magazines such as REDBOOK (11/98)and have even been featured on the large JumboTron in Times Square, and excerpted in COSMO (7/10). She has been nominated for RT Book Club's career achievement awards in Series Fantasy and Series Adventure.
A Florida native who grew up to travel the globe, Katherine makes her home in the Midlands of the UK with her husband, two children and a very spoiled miniature Dachshund. Connect with the author: Website Twitter Facebook
The Scott Brothers series
Book 1: A Cowboy for Christmas Book 2: The Cowboy's Reluctant Bride Book 3: Her Summer Cowboy Book 4: Cowboy, It's Cold Outside Book 5: Her Christmas Cowboy
Homeland Security agent Luke Archer returns home to Texas on a dangerous mission—a hands-on fight against a terrorist organization that has infiltrated the United States—yet it’s a chance encounter with his high-school sweetheart that really gets his blood pumping. Luke considers himself a lone wolf who doesn’t need a woman in his life. But as memories of their sweet, innocent affair stir him body and soul, Luke starts to wonder whether he should give love another chance.
A high-powered attorney, Bella Shaw has never forgotton how Luke left her behind in Austin to chase his dreams. But when she’s being totally honest with herself, Bella can’t deny that Luke is the one man she ever truly wanted. Though he tells her that the terrorists are using her land, she’s more worried about defending her heart from the advances of the sinfully sexy lawman. Still, Bella is willing to trust him again—if Agent Archer proves he’s worthy.
Luke Archer is the youngest of the brothers, and I have highly anticipated reading his story in this exciting series.
And the heat was high between Luke and Bella. The high school lovers reunited were on fire, their chemistry was great, and the connection immediate even after all the years they had been apart. There was a third party, Ed, that was in the picture at the beginning, but then suddenly he wasn't an issue. I would have liked to see that resolved before Luke and Bella moved forward. I loved how Granny got some screen time as well and we got to know more about her past and the wild days of her youth. The suspense was intense, the topic popular and very much part of today's politics. And that's where the story fell for me, the political opinions that were repeated several times. They had a debate on the matter and constantly brought the immigration issues up and it felt unnecessary. It didn't add to the plot, yet took away much from the enjoyment of the story. Everyone reading the book knows that a homeland security officer will enforce the law, his personal opinions and mostly how he came forward with his opinion was unattractive. How he talked about the people crossing the border not being humans would have made me walk away from him and fast. Also, there were some statements of green card holders that I would like to fact check. Immigration is a sensitive subject matter in today's world and in my opinion the author took a risk to bring it up as it was. But when it was assumed that "the whole world was watching" when Texas college American football was on national television in the USA, I realized that 'the world' where the characters were operating in was rather limited and small. The romance between Bella and Luke was enticing and sexy. I liked how the past didn't bring too much angst into their relationship. I also appreciated that Judge humbled himself and apologized for his actions in the past. It was a great, happy ending for the family and the series. Towards the end of the book, it was more about action instead of building up the case, and that made the pages fly and bring intensity and interest into the tale. I really wish the author didn't have the need to bring their political opinions into their work so dominantly, taking away so much of the enjoyment of the tale. ~ Two Spoons
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Kathy Clark has always been a storyteller. She completed her first novel when she was four years old and self-published it the same year. The Little Black Horse That Ran Away was self-illustrated and sold out of its first printing. Thanks Mom!
Since then, a total of twenty-three novels published by Dell, Crown, and Harlequin happened. With her husband Bob Wernly as a co-writer, they published (both traditionally and epub) an additional fourteen novels. Nine of these fourteen books were self-published in the romantic suspense, young adult and erotic romance genres. The remaining five published by Random House LLC as the Denver Heroes and Austin Heroes, released in 2015 and throughout 2016. The author team are currently developing a new contemporary romance series (with a suspense backdrop) titled Breathless. High altitude, high stakes, and high romance, the series will begin in 2017 with the first book, Fools Gold . The series is set in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Their young adult genre series, Time Shifters, is a time travel romance-mystery series. The fifth book in the award winning series, Not My Life releases 10.18.16. Finally, their new adult romantic suspense series, Scandals, currently has the first three books released. With two people developing ideas, plotting, researching, writing and editing, Kathy and Bob are both busy and productive. To be perfectly honest, Kathy and Bob would rather be riding horses, sitting on a sandy beach, watching movies or plays, and playing a round of golf every few days. But the voices in their heads insist on coming out, so they keep writing. Website Twitter FaceBooks
Someone like You
Oxford #3 By: Lauren Layne Releasing December 6, 2016 Loveswept
Lincoln Mathis doesn’t hide his reputation as Manhattan’s ultimate playboy. In fact, he cultivates it. But behind every flirtatious smile, each provocative quip, there’s a secret that Lincoln’s hiding from even his closest friends—a tragedy from his past that holds his heart quietly captive. Lincoln knows what he wants: someone like Daisy Sinclair, the sassy, off-limits bridesmaid he can’t take his eyes off at his best friend’s wedding. He also knows that she’s everything he can never have.
After a devastating divorce, Daisy doesn’t need anyone to warn her off the charming best man at her sister’s wedding. One look at the breathtakingly hot Lincoln Mathis and she knows that he’s exactly the type of man she should avoid. But when Daisy stumbles upon Lincoln’s secret, she realizes there’s more to the charming playboy than meets the eye. And suddenly Daisy and Lincoln find their lives helplessly entwined in a journey that will either heal their damaged souls . . . or destroy them forever. Advance praise for Someone Like You “Fun and flirty, sassy and steamy, with a deep emotional pull that will keep you turning the pages.”—Kelly Jamieson, author of Top Shelf “An unsung hero with a story that touched my heart. Emotional and gripping. A top favorite of 2016 for me.”--New York Times bestselling author Melanie Moreland
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Lauren Layne is the USA Today bestselling author of more than a dozen romantic comedies. She lives in New York City with her husband (who was her high school sweetheart--cute, right?!) and plus-sized Pomeranian.
In 2011, she ditched her corporate career in Seattle to pursue a full-time writing career in Manhattan, and never looked back. In her ideal world, every stiletto-wearing, Kate Spade wielding woman would carry a Kindle stocked with Lauren Layne books. For a list of all her works, please be sure to check out her official website! Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram
Quincy Ryan was just handed custody of a son he didn’t know existed. He knows how to be an architect, not a dad, so he looks to his own father for guidance, but that means moving with Pops to Marietta, Montana. Quincy knows he has to get over his shock and give Atlas the Christmas he deserves, but how? He needs a miracle.
Nicki Darren, failed actress, will take any job as Christmas approaches, even babysitting for a withdrawn, workaholic, single father. She lost her mom as a child, too, and hasn’t had a real Christmas since, so she identifies with four-year-old Atlas. An advent calendar of activities soon has Nicki pulling Quincy out of the house to get a tree and ice skate with his son. She wants Quincy to open his heart to Atlas, but begins to fall for the Ryan men herself. It makes the countdown to her last day, Christmas Eve, bittersweet. If only the miracle he is looking for included her…
Oh my, I am still in awe of all the feelings and emotional upheaval the author created without a negative spill or angst-filled tale. Instead, His Christmas Miracle is heartwarming, touching, delightful story, that fills you with Christmas cheer, that longing that builds up through the advent till Christmas Eve arrives, there is love, yearning, and joy, there's children, family and friends, and sorrow and awkward moments, everything that most families and Christmases have.
One of the highlights of the story was to see Quincy grow to be a dad, a wonderful dad nonetheless. His relationship with Atlas was a tear-streaker, as much from the joy watching them find each other and falling in love as father and son as from Atlas mourning for his mom. Nicki was a ray of sunshine, perky, happy and full of love. She and Quincy were the opposite of each other but in a way that when together they were complete. I loved every moment of this story, I inhaled it on one sitting with tissues close by. This story will be one of those I want to revisit again and it will stay with me for awhile. As much as I read, it is impossible to remember each story I read, but every year few gets close to the heart so that they make an impression and stay. The speech problems of Quincy and Atlas, their introverted personality, their big hearts and sweet minds sneaked into my heart like they did to Nicki, and took hold. If you ever wonder how to make most out of the December and Advent time, the build up for the Christmas, this story with the event Advent calendar has ideas that don't only sound fun things to do but will bring the people doing closer to each other, and underline the meaning of Christmas. A wistful and wondrous story of family, loss and love, Christmas time, and of a brilliant idea for an Advent calendar that makes the love bloom and flourish bringing joy to everyone's hearts. ~ Five Spoons
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A USA Today Bestselling author, Dani Collins began writing in high school, spending more than two decades writing and submitting before she got The Call.
After a brilliant debut in the UK with No Longer Forbidden, a Mills & Boon Modern Book Of The Month in January 2013, Dani Collins saw her first Harlequin Presents, Proof Of Their Sin, win that year’s Reviewer’s Choice for First Series romance by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Dani has gone on to sell more than two dozen sexy, witty, vibrant romances to a variety of worldwide publishers including Harlequin Mills & Boon in London, Tule Publishing in California, and Champagne Books in Alberta Canada. Dani has even published some indie books out of her office in rural British Columbia where she lives with her high school sweetheart. While Dani’s settings span from glitzy Greek islands to small town Montana to imaginary medieval worlds, she always delivers alpha heroes squaring off with spirited heroines with passion and humor. Try before you buy! Join Dani’s newsletter and receive Cruel Summer, a short story ebook written exclusively for her subscribers. Get Dani’s Free eBook Get in touch with the author: WEBSITE TWITTER FACEBOOK
The Billionaire Next Door
Billionaire Bad Boys #2 By: Jessica Lemmon Releasing October 25, 2016 Forever
Can't Buy Me Love
It's Tag Crane's job to be the life of the party. Traveling from one exotic locale to another is just part of running the luxurious Crane Hotel empire. But even paradise isn't perfect. Devising a new business strategy is keeping Tag up at night-and so is the Great Dane barking at all hours in the apartment below his. To muzzle the problem, Tag charges downstairs . . . right into the most beautiful, blond distraction he's ever seen. Dog-sitting by day, bartending by night. It's not exactly the life Rachel Foster dreamed of. But when Tag Crane rushes in, all mountain-man shoulders and obscenely sexy smile, needing her help for the Crane Hotels, it's a fantasy come true. What's the harm in a fun no-strings fling? Only a fool would give her heart to a billionaire player like Tag-until suddenly the one man who can't be caught is the one flirting with forever . . “This is so much colder than a cab,” Rachel said through chattering teeth. The bar was probably fifteen blocks from the apartment. What was she thinking agreeing to walk? She couldn’t feel her nose. “But cleaner,” Tag said. She was currently taking two steps for every one of his, given his gait was longer than hers, even at a leisurely pace. “I do better when it’s a nice, even seventy degrees.” She buried her chin in her scarf as she watched her boots cut through the gathering snow. “I guess it’ll be a few more months until we see milder temps.” God. She was hopeless. Walking down the sidewalk next to a gorgeous guy and talking about the weather. But Tag didn’t balk. “I like extremes,” he said, as if this was perfectly acceptable conversation. “If it’s hot, I like it really hot. If it’s cold, there’d better be snow or it’s a waste. I like the ocean because you can’t see the end of it. If I’m in a forest, I prefer one filled with massive sequoias.” “Because you can relate to them,” she teased. “Giant.” He turned his head and smiled and she admired straight, white teeth surrounded by a golden brown beard. He’d pulled his hair down and the light brown waves fell haphazardly over his black coat. Which was so sexy she couldn’t think. Especially since there were snowflakes in the strands. Not that she could blame them. Nestled warmly in those locks wasn’t a bad place to imagine being. Again, she wondered at her attraction to him. Though he did kind of look like Thor, and while she wasn’t a die-hard comic book fan, she could appreciate the actor in the movie. “How tall are you?” she asked, mostly to stop her inane train of thought. The more she was around him, the less she understood her basal reaction to him. “Just under six-six. You’re what? Five-five?” “Yeah. How’d you do that?” He shrugged and looked ahead, but she didn’t doubt how he’d done it. He’d likely honed his carnival skills and was stellar at guessing weight and height. It wasn’t hard to imagine him using his intuition to figure out a woman’s weak points so he could attack where she was most sensitive. He’d probably had a ton of practice. Was that where her concern was coming from? That he’d find her weak spots and use them against her? That’s what Shaun had done, she thought with a token amount of bitterness. “How’d I do what?” A puff of air came from his lips, buried in his beard. She’d never liked facial hair. Until now, apparently. “How’d you guess my height?” she shot back, feeling peeved more with herself than him. Lack of sleep, or maybe too much, she wasn’t really sure what to blame her reaction on now. “How’d you know I was a businesswoman before? I’m a great bartender, by the way. I was a bartender for longer than I worked in marketing.” She pushed her hands deeper into her pockets, lamenting not bringing her gloves with her. Her hands were freezing. “Just observant. I’m good with people,” he said. She absorbed that for a few seconds. “What exactly do you do in Guest and Restaurant Services?” She air-quoted those words, which brought her bare hands from her pockets. He noticed. “Where are your gloves? Do you realize it’s February in Chicago?” “I forgot them.” Tag stopped walking, a deep sigh working its way from his wide chest as he tugged off his gloves. “I’m fine.” But he wasn’t listening. Once he’d had his baseball-mitt sized gloves off, he lifted her smaller, freezing hands to his mouth, cupping them in his palms, and blew on them to warm her fingers. He did this the way he did everything else. Slowly. Intentionally. And looking right at her. He brushed his lips over her knuckles as a drove of chills shot down her spine and legs. She became fascinated by how soft his beard felt against her freezing skin, and then those chills were replaced with heat. Pooling in her belly, between her thighs, and infusing her face with color. “Thanks,” she muttered when he let her go. She stuffed her hands into his gloves—they were warm, and after his personal attention, so was she. They finished their walk to Crane Tower, and once they were in the lobby, she put that together with Crane Hotels. “You’re pretty brand loyal aren’t you?” “Honey, you have no idea.”
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A former job-hopper, Jessica Lemmon resides in Ohio with her husband and rescue dog. She holds a degree in graphic design currently gathering dust in an impressive frame. When she’s not writing super-sexy heroes, she can be found cooking, drawing, drinking coffee (okay, wine), and eating potato chips. She firmly believes God gifts us with talents for a purpose, and with His help, you can create the life you want.
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