Dream On
by Stacey Keith
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Deep in the heart of Texas is a small town where secret wishes have a funny way of coming true . . .
With a nine-year-old daughter, an overdue light bill, and a job slinging burgers while zooming around on roller skates, Cassidy Roby is not living the glamorous life. But Cuervo, Texas, has its charms: quiet streets, loving family, and the down-home familiarity of knowing which of your neighbors are mean as snakes. With Cassidy’s reputation, she knows what will happen if she steps a foot out of line. But how can she help it now that Mason Hannigan’s back in town?
As Cuervo’s high school quarterback ten years ago, Mason was all rock-hard abs and yes-ma’am manners. Now that he’s living the glitz and glory of the NFL, he’s all that plus a couple million bucks. The desire blazing between them is too hot to hide. Cassidy has some experience getting her heart broken by the hometown hero—and having the whole world watch her try to pick up the pieces. Will adding fame, fortune, and paparazzi be a playbook for disaster—or lead to the biggest adventure of her life?
Cassidy stood shivering and barefoot on her porch. No one was up this early except the Perkins boy who weaved along the sidewalk on his bike, pitching newspapers.
But the hush of morning made everything beautiful—the silver mist, the dew-covered grass, the gray light of dawn. And she knew with absolute certainty that this one moment, when her body ached so deliciously and her heart felt so full, would stay with her forever. Behind her, she could hear Mason washing his breakfast dishes in the sink. She’d cooked for him just as though they were any other couple and this were any other morning. There he’d sat grinning up at her from the table, and she was so in love with him, her hands shook when she scraped eggs from the skillet onto his plate. Every piece of toast she buttered was his toast. Every cup of coffee she poured was his coffee. While he ate, she ran her fingers through his thick dark hair and that feeling of delirious happiness moved through her, so intense it felt like pain. Waiting out on the porch, she heard him close the zippers on his rucksack. Last night, the sound of a zipper had driven her crazy with desire. Now, there was no lonelier sound in the world.
Stacey Keith is the award-winning author of the Dreams Come True series (Kensington Books), DREAM ON, SWEET DREAMS and DREAM LOVER, in addition to A WEDDING ON BLUEBIRD WAY with New York Times Bestseller authors Janet Dailey, Lori Wilde and the talented Allyson Charles.
Twice a Golden Heart finalist, Stacey has won a Maggie, two Silver Quills, a Jasmine, a Heart of the Rockies, and over fifteen other first-place finishes in Romance Writers of America contests.
An avid writer of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and short stories, Stacey doesn’t own a television, but reads compulsively—and would, in fact, go stark raving bonkers without books, which are crammed into all corners of the house. She now lives in Civita Castellana, a medieval village in Italy that sits atop a cliff, and spends her days writing in a nearby abandoned 12th century church.
The two things she is most proud of are her ability to cook pasta alla genovese without burning down the kitchen and swearing volubly in Italian with all the appropriate hand gestures.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
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Romantic Suspense
Date Published: September 26, 2017 Publisher: Broadback
She Do Run Run is a fast, double-shot-of-espresso read. Its heart-racing story can be consumed in a few quick hours.
Jenny’s life is shattered when her Special Ops husband is killed. To escape the pain, she falls into a dangerous cycle of random sex and booze, and one night she kills a violent man. She runs off into the unknown, desperate to survive and change her life. That’s when Lieutenant Jon Dowling appears.
Enraged, KC bounced off the bed, faltered, then whirled about to face me. He broke for me, spitting threats and curses, his giant shadow of a body charging. I felt a twist of terror in the pit of my stomach.
I slipped the Luger from my purse easily—feeling the cool, sticky grip. There was no time to shout out a warning. He was coming—a charging, killing animal. I squeezed off two shots. The impact stunned him, jerked him erect. Froze him. I could see his eyes, wide in the bright flash of yellow neon. He heaved out a loud breath, like a snort. “You shot me, you bitch! I’ll kill you! You fuckin’ shot me! I’ll kill you!” He came at me, a big angry bear reaching. I fired two more shots. I watched in horror as he teetered, and stumbled backwards off-balance. He bounced off the wall, face blank, and dropped like a heavy sack. I felt the thud of his body shake the floor under my bare feet. I stood breathing, sweating, heart kicking. I knew he was dead. I didn’t need to check. I mean, I shot him four times, for Chrissake! Did anyone hear the shots? I strained my ears. Dead quiet. Were there people next door? Would someone call the police? Strangely, I felt calm—incredibly calm. Where was the shock? Methodically, I slipped the handgun back into my purse. Then I realized I was naked. I found my clothes, slipped them on, turned the room lights on dim and searched the room, refusing to look at KC, making sure I hadn’t left anything: still had my earrings, watch, phone, purse. Would there be finger prints? Maybe. I knew, from some of Kyle’s police buddies, that prints were hard to find. I hadn’t touched many things. I hadn’t even drunk from a glass or used a towel. What about hair in the bed? A broken nail? No time to search. Impossible anyway. I turned off the lights and slipped out of the motel into a dark humid night. The motel office was 70 feet or so away and, fortunately, I hadn’t stepped inside the office with KC when he registered. I had not been seen. I listened for police sirens. Nothing. Strange. We had come on KC’s motorcycle, leaving my car in the bar’s parking lot. I’d have to walk the five miles or so, and I did, keeping my head low, edging along in the shadows. When I arrived back at the bar, the parking lot was still bloated with motorcycles, trucks and old dinged up cars. I glanced about, saw a couple locked in a kiss near the front door, climbed into my car, cranked the engine and drove away, still feeling oddly calm. Why? I had just killed a man. The police would soon be looking for the killer, of course. The bartender had seen me, and the man who had moved to give me his barstool, had seen me. Would they remember what I looked like? As far as I knew, they were the only ones. No one knew my name or anything else about me. Still, there was no doubt the police would find some evidence. If there was hair in the bed, they’d run a DNA test. This was Florida after all, and Florida cops weren’t stupid, at least not the ones Kyle and I had known. So, what now? I drove, and drove, and kept on driving. I lost track of time and place, my mind soon entranced by the blurring white lines of the road, by the hum of the car engine and the expanding, chilling realization that I’d just killed a man.
About the Author:
I'm a Florida-based writer, who loves all things romantic, with a shot of suspense. I also love to write Time Travel Novels.
When the characters keep me up nights, I feel good about the story.
Contact Links
The Scot’s Secret by Cecelia Mecca
Series Border Series #4 Genre Adult Historical Romance Publisher Independent Publication Date November 14, 2017
A clan’s greatest warrior. An Englishwoman in disguise.
Can their love survive her secret? The Scot When his brother foists an English squire upon him, Alex Kerr is completely disinterested in training the lad—until he discovers that his new recruit is not a lad at all. “Alfred” is a beautiful Englishwoman in disguise, hiding a horrible secret. Determined to uncover the truth about Clara’s past, Alex agrees to take her with him on a journey across the Scottish border into England. Passion flares between them, but as Alex gets closer and closer to discovering Clara’s secret, their future seems ever more uncertain. The Secret For six years, Lady Clara has lived as “Alfred”—a squire who talks little and trusts no one. But everything changes when she agrees to squire for Alex Kerr. Her feelings for him are far from those of master and apprentice. He makes her long to leave her disguise behind. . . except to do so is to risk the lives of everyone she cares about. Will her secret doom the unlikely pair before they have a chance at love?
Cecelia Mecca is the author of medieval romance including the Border Series.
Born and raised in Northeast, Pennsylvania, Cecelia spent fifteen years as an 8th grade ELA teacher and currently works as a curriculum specialist by day, small business owner by night and romance author when most people are sleeping. She has always loved both romance and all things medieval, so when introduced to the likes of Kathleen Woodiwiss and Jude Devereux, it was the start of a 20+ year love affair. Although she began a manuscript in college, it would be a degree in Education/English, two children, a PhD in Curriculum, two jobs and a marketing business later before she resumed the story which became The Thief’s Countess. The Border Series is a labor of love which she’s excited to share with historical romance readers. An unapologetic fantasy geek, she discovered Frodo in middle school and is still awed by Tolkien’s talent. When not reading romance she is learning the fate of Rand al’Thor and waiting anxiously for Winds of Winter. On a typical day, Cecelia is immersed either in the world of Waryn (Border Series) or is scoping out the next epic historical on Netflix
For one navy SEAL, danger and passion are brewing in paradise
Working on a cruise ship was supposed to be the perfect distraction for chef Cady Crenshaw. Instead, it made her the perfect target. Abducted and thrown overboard into foreign waters, she has only one shot at survival…and it comes at the hands of an irresistible ally. Navy SEAL Logan Starke's protective instincts were locked and loaded the moment he met Cady at the ship's bar. When a violent struggle to take down her captors leaves Logan and Cady stranded on a deserted island, he leaps into rescue mode. But the hot sand and the even hotter attraction between them can't be denied…and temptation could be the deadliest threat yet.
A riveting survival story where the hero and heroine don't only have to survive the savage kidnappers but also the unforgiving nature of the stranded island out there in the middle of nowhere.
This story took my breath away and had me on the edge with many dangers and threats the main characters faced during their time on the island. The tension is high as time just goes by and there is no way to escape, no way to find their way back to the civilization, no way to avoid each other and the burning attraction building between Cady and Logan. Chef Cady Crenshaw is a tough and capable heroine who is not afraid to stand up for herself. She has sass and attitude but also sweetness and passion. She can be hard-headed yet there is a tender heart inside her that she guards with the stubborn exterior. Navy SEAL Logan Starke knows more about survival than most. He is cool and calm under pressure, yet he is a passionate, kind, considerate man who takes care and protects those he cares about or are trusted to his care. His biggest challenge on the island is to stay professional and not to touch Cady like his heart, mind, and body are yearning to do. The primitive surroundings make the flaming desire burning between Cady and Logan an intensely sensual game that puts them both on the edge. The heat factor is high, the sexual encounters are voluptuous, the hunger they have for each other just growing with each touch, as the devotion and admiration take root in their hearts. Logan and Cady's fight for survival is a captivating and enthralling story. There are so many elements bringing the intensity to a new level, from the personal conflicts to the physical challenges of the island to the deathly threat of the pirates. I was glued to my kindle as every twist in the story brought a new challenge making it impossible to put the book down. The island and survival enticed me, as well as the budding relationship and the demands the environment put them under. I felt a deep connection to both Logan and Cady, even though I could not comprehend a couple of the tantrums Cady had. A mesmerizing, intriguing, and intense story of endurance and survival in the most challenging circumstances. The allure of the attraction and desire is irresistible, even as the danger and deadly threat hide behind each and every corner ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
A New Life Series
by Samantha Jacobey
Genre: Dark MC Romance, Thriller, Suspense
DARK ROMANTIC THRILLER filled with mystery and suspense,
A New Life Series is a Biker Tale like you've never heard... Tori Farrell is running for her life. Used for what she knows, haunted by what she's done... Bikers, Drug Lords and the FBI all want a piece of her, but she'll do anything to escape and protect the ones she loves. The question is, can you handle the ride? Pick up your copy of this great adventure today - Books 1-7 are on audio individually, with the finale coming soon!! Individual eBooks are $2.99 or FREE on KU and paperbacks for only $9.99 each.
**Captive is on Sale for .99 right now!**
Anyone who knows me could tell you, I am a friendly kind of person, never met a stranger and take up conversations any where at any time. I work hard, and my mind never seems to shut down, as I wake up often in the middle of the night with ideas pouring out and demanding to be dealt with. Of course that means much of my books were written in the middle of the night.
I grew up and still live in the great state of Texas where everything is bigger, where we have warm weather and a central location. I love my state, my town, and my family, which includes my four sons, my significant other, and many friends as well.
I have thoroughly enjoyed writing the books that are currently available and hope you will enjoy reading them just as much. And of course, there will be many more stories to come.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
HIS UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS SURPRISE...
A baby's cry was the last thing former SEAL Gideon Snow expected to hear on an Arizona mountain trail. Nor was he prepared for the sight of the young mother suffering from memory loss. Gideon has plenty of reasons for avoiding people--and his painful past--but two fragile people now depend on him to survive. Can he just fall for the lovely Jane Doe? Jane doesn't deny the pull of the gruff-yet-sweet cowboy who saved her and her baby. He's more than a cowboy hero--Gideon's given them a chance at a new life and love. But Jane knows that any day, her memory might come back. And the woman Gideon is falling in love with might disappear forever...
Deeply emotional and touching story that brings all the feels into the surface. The story made me smile, sigh, and even tear up. I connected with the characters, I rejoiced with them, I mourned with them, I fell in love with them. The realistic characteristics of the hero and heroine were endearing, they had faults just like you and me, yet they had that charisma and charm to pull you into their world, and hold your interest. They had me rooting for them, angry at them, and wanting to hug them close and say it will all be alright.
The former SEAL Gideon Snow is a pickle. He frustrated me to no end at times, but mostly I just wanted to hold a mirror to him and show him what a truly good, solid, kind fellow he was, and help him to understand that what his ex-wife was and wasn't is no true reflection on him. Jane Doe and little Chip won my heart with the bravery, guts, and strength they both showed from the very first scene. Jane's amnesia puts her in a fragile state, yet with Gideon she is safe, she is at peace, she is at home. The three of them together were such a tight unit, so adorable, and so sweet. The problems Gideon and Jane were battling within their lives were realistic and understandably overpowering. I loved that the author didn't take any easy roads to their happily ever after, instead had them take their time to do the work, to make the effort, and find the peace within that made anything else possible. This was a story that touched my heart deeply with the deep emotions and the gutsy twists in the plot. There are moments of despair and raw pain, frustration, and even fear, but there are also moments of joy, jubilee, devotion, and love, and the kind of pure extasy only a great tasting baked goods can deliver. ~ Five Spoons Books & Spoons Release Day Celebration for CHRISTMAS AT THE CANDIED APPLE CAFE by Katherine Garbera10/11/2017
Christmas At The Candied Apple Cafe
by Katherine Garbera HarperCollins HarperImpulse e-book Nov. 10, 2017 paperback Dec. 14, 2017 ISBN: 9780008142537
There's nothing so magical as Christmas in New York...
Santa is coming to New York! Snow is falling, excitement is high and the delicious scent of chocolate drifts along Fifth Avenue – the Candied Apple Café is ready for Christmas! And no one is busier than publicist Iona Summerlin. With so much to do, she doesn’t have time to think about men, dating, or the fact her last boyfriend ditched her for her brother… Relationships are off the menu! Hotel boss Mads Eriksson is not looking forward to the first Christmas since losing his wife. His six-year-old daughter Sofia has lost her belief in Christmas magic along with her mother, and he has no idea what to do. But an unusually festive business meeting at the Candied Apple – and meeting the beautiful Iona – starts to defrost Mads’ frozen heart, and suddenly life seems full of light and sparkle again. If only they dare to believe, maybe all their Christmas dreams will come true!
SETUP:
Mads and Iona have been trying to keep things all business between them but Sofia forces them both to admit there is more between them than a business deal. Singing Christmas carols with her friends, Mads, and Sofia after all the other party guests had left was something … well, really magical. She could see the snow falling beyond the tree through the window that looked over Central Park. Cici and Hoop sat together in a large armchair, Cici cuddling Holly in her arms. Garrett and Hayley were sitting on the floor in front of the tree and Iona and Mads and Sofia were nestled together on the couch. She knew — truly she did — that this wasn’t real. That she and Mads had just become a family without any effort. But a part of her finally admitted it was something she was interested in. Sofia was starting to get sleepy, curling closer to Mads, resting her head on his chest as Leon Redbone’s version of “Winter Wonderland” played in the background. Mads gave her a wry smile. “I think we should go.” “She nodded. “I’ll come with you.” “I was hoping you’d say that.” She glanced over to see that Hayley was watching her with one eyebrow raised. Her friends had been cool about not saying anything about Sofia arriving by herself or Mads kissing her in the kitchen hallway. But she had the feeling tomorrow at work they were going to want all the details. She just smiled at Hayley, who winked at her. “We’re going to head out. Thanks for a wonderful party.” “You’re welcome,” Hoop said as he shifted Cici and baby Holly to the chair and stood up. “I’ll see them out.” “Thanks.” “Iona went over and gave Cici a hug and kissed the sleeping baby on the head before waving bye to Hayley and Garrett. Mads followed her, carrying his daughter, who’d fallen asleep. Iona gathered their coats from Hoop. “My phone is in my pocket,” Mads said. “Will you text Hamlisch we’re ready to go?” She blushed as Hoop watched her reach her hand into Mads’ back pocket to retrieve his phone. She tried to be nonchalant but the gesture felt intimate. Not something acquaintances would do. She took out his phone and handed it to him since it was password-protected. She turned to hug Hoop as Mads texted his driver.” “He reached around her to open the door for Mads. “See you on Saturday.” “Can’t believe I’m going to the ballet,” Hoop said. “But I think it should be fun.” “You’ll love it,” Iona said. He nodded and they left the apartment. Iona hit the button for the down elevator and as they waited Mads looked over at her. There was an intensity in his gaze that she hadn’t noticed in him before. “What?” “I was just thinking about something Sofia had said earlier.” “What was it?” Iona asked, tucking a strand of Sofia’s hair behind her ear. “That she wanted this year to feel different. Gill was sick for three years before she died. Sofia never knew a Christmas that didn’t involve nurses or hospitals.” Iona put her arms around them both and hugged them. She wanted them to be hers. She held them tightly because she wanted to keep them close forever. “We’re going to make this one special for her.” “I hope it’s good for you too,” he said. “Me too,” she admitted, as the elevator doors opened. She caught a glimpse of the three of them walking through the lobby in the mirrored wall behind the reception desk. They looked like a family. Like the one she’d kept tucked away in the back of her mind from the moment that her mom had mentioned a matchmaker. Finding her a husband because it was time for her to have a family of her own. Her own. But that had been her mom’s agenda, trying to force her to not work so hard, not be like her dad. This was different. She hadn’t been looking for Mads or Sofia when they’d come into her life. “You okay?” Mads asked. She realized she’d stopped walking and was staring at her own reflection in the mirror. She nodded because she knew she couldn’t tell him what was on her mind. That at this moment she finally got that she hadn’t been okay in a really long time. She’d used the Candied Apple as her surrogate family. She’d made that little place into the only thing that mattered in her life because there she was safe. She could pour all of her hopes and dreams into the shop and it would never let her down. Never break her heart or let her glimpse something she longed to call her own, only to take it away from her. And she knew… really, she did, that she’d been pretending for too long that the Candied Apple Café would be enough to fill the emptiness left by never getting the approval she needed from her father. She wanted this Christmas wish that she’d been silently whispering for longer than she could remember to come true. She wanted Christmas morning to be special and not because she’d ordered lots of things she wanted and had them wrapped and delivered and put under her tree. But this year she wanted to have something she couldn’t buy. Something that had always been out of her reach and that reflection in the mirror made her hope that this time she could get it. That Mads and Sofia could be hers, not just on Christmas morning but for all the Christmases to come.
In the sweet subtle wind of a Pennsylvania Dutch town, a lost woman and a man of duty will risk their lives to uncover her true identity
The foundation of Amanda Curtis's very existence cracks the moment she discovers the woman she thought was her mother has never given birth. Where she belongs is a question she can't put to rest. But when the clues lead her to a charming yet chilling small town, the threat against her begins to unfold. Trey Addison is a fixture in Echo Falls. The town and the people are his to protect. He was born to take his place in the family legal firm, but now that a stranger desperate to unlock her past is depending on him, he's forced to make an impossible choice. If Trey doesn't protect Amanda, she'll walk straight into a deadly trap. If he helps her expose the secrets that haunt her, the truth could shatter them both.
An entertaining and inspiring story about falling in love and finding the people that make you feel at home while solving an intriguing mystery from the past.
Marta Perry writes stories that cross the lines of several sub-genres. There is suspense, murder mystery, sweet romance, women's lit and Amish stories meddled together in a perfect harmony in Sound of Fear delivering a pleasing story that was easy to get lost in. There was something familiar about the story, a little bit like coming home, a little bit like I have been here before - and I mean beyond the book one in the series. All the characters, even the possible villains, have redeeming characteristics, if they are not all around likable and lovable, people you want to get to know better. Amanda Curtis's life was spiraling out of control with all the new revelations of her parentage and their destinies. She is a fiercely independent, capable, and smart woman. She is lost and feels lonely with all the news shaking the foundation of her life, yet she manages to hold it together, to seek answers, and to be understanding and pleasant while everything she once knew is tumbling down. Trey Addison is comfortable in his own skin and life, he knows who he is, where he comes from, what he wants and how to go about getting it. He is kind, generous, all around a solid, good guy. The sparks are flying in between Trey and Amanda, the attraction is obvious but that does not make them agree on each and every point of the investigation. A research that is raising some disturbing questions causing several dangerous, even life-threatening attacks towards Amanda. The new tidbits of information and the continues threats intensifying the atmosphere keeps the story going while Amanda and Trey get to know each other better, and Amanda has a chance to make acquaintance with her new-found family members. The story has such a smooth storytelling, the flow of the tale pulls you in, and you lose the sense of time and place. I genuinely felt the interest to solve the case, to find the truth, to stop the harassment, and see if Amanda has the guts to go for it and accept all the love offered to her in different forms from different people. Heartwarming romance and thought-provoking destinies mixed with intense suspense and acute danger delivered in a story with lovable, charismatic characters. ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Romance writer Julia Landon knows how to write a happily-ever-after. Creating one for herself is a whole different story. But after a surprising--and surprisingly passionate--kiss under the mistletoe at Harmony Harbor's holiday party last year, Julia thought she might have finally found her very own chance at true love. Until she learns her Mr. Tall, Dark, and Broodingly Handsome has sworn off relationships. Well, if she can't have him in real life, Julia knows just how to get the next best thing....
Aidan's only priority is to be the best single dad ever. And this year, he plans to make the holidays magical for his little girl, Ella Rose. But visions of stolen kisses under the mistletoe keep dancing in his head, and when he finds out Julia has written him into her latest novel, he can't help imagining the possibilities of a future together. Little does he know, though, Julia has been keeping a secret that threatens all their dreams. Luckily, 'tis the season for a little Christmas magic.
“Thanks,” she said to Aidan’s back as he prowled around her apartment, no doubt looking for the source of the smoke. “Um, I think my nachos are on fire.”
She made a face at his muttered, “You have got to be shitting me.” And then went to look up the alarm company’s number on her phone, only to realize she couldn’t access it because her cell was dead. “Duck.” She raced to her desk searching for the alarm company’s business card while muttering to herself, “I need the number. Where would I put the number for the alarm company? Laptop. Of course.” Laptop, no! It was on and open for him to see. She slammed the lid shut at the same time the oven door bang closed. Aidan strode from the kitchen wearing her burnt oven mitt and carrying a charbroiled tray of smoking ash. “It’s usually on the unit,” he said dryly before heading out the door. Which went to prove that the man didn’t miss a thing, even her half-whispered conversation with herself. At the return of his heavy footsteps, she turned her back to her desk, attempting to use her body as a shield. Widening her stance and her arms, she wrapped her fingers around the edge of the desk and leaned back in hopes of concealing any evidence of her book from his all-seeing cop’s eyes. He glanced at her and then did a double take. She thought she heard a muttered, “Jesus,” before he retrieved his phone from her hand and continued across the living room to the window, dodging a basket of laundry, a box of decorations she’d yet to put up on the tree, and a half-eaten bowl of cereal. Wondering what was with the double take, she looked around. She didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. Sure her place was a little messy, but he was a guy. He probably wouldn’t even notice. She thought of something he might notice and looked down. Yep, that was probably the reason for the look. It was obvious she was cold, and her body-hugging black T-shirt read “Santa’s Favorite Ho” with the jolly old elf ho, ho, hoing, paired with black-and-white plaid flannel sleep pants.
| Books-A-Million |
Debbie Mason is the USA Today bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series. Her books have been praised for their "likable characters, clever dialogue and juicy plots" (RT Book Reviews).
She also writes historical paranormals as Debbie Mazzuca. Her MacLeod series has received several nominations for best paranormal as well as a Holt Medallion Award of Merit. When she isn't writing or reading, Debbie enjoys spending time with her very own real-life hero, their four wonderful children, two adorable grandbabies, and a yappy Yorkie named Bella. Website | Facebook | Twitter
When local journalist, Tori Peterson, fails to prevent a child abduction outside her niece’s school, her horror and guilt sparks a vow to do whatever it takes to get little Abby Brady home to her parents.
While Tori battles the vile memories of her own kidnapping as a child, she accepts the help of widowed father, Mark Bolton. As he and Tori join forces with the local police, their attraction and intimacy grows…along with their fears for Abby. Links are uncovered between Abby’s disappearance and Tori’s kidnapping, and Tori is forced to accept the monster who held her captive is back. But this time, Tori is all grown up, and there is no way she will let him hurt another little girl.
Sensing her discomfort, he stopped and leaned against the bureau. God, did he frighten her? Surely not, or she wouldn’t be here. Or did she sense his attraction toward her and would do all she could to deflect it? He didn’t doubt for one minute his eyes gave away his appreciation whenever he looked at her.
He lifted the can to his lips. “So, what have you been thinking about?” She tapped a peach-painted nail on the bureau. “This.” “The bureau?” “Principal White’s bureau.” He frowned. “How did you know it was hers?” “She mentioned you were working on a bureau for her when I was in the school office. I assumed this is it.” “It is.” “Good, because that makes it all the easier for me to give you your first assignment.” “You want me to talk to her.” She smiled, took a few tentative steps closer to him. “Got it in one, Watson.” He smiled, pleased to see genuine mischief shining in her eyes. “I’m Watson?” “Yep.” “So that makes you Holmes. Not sure I like being anyone’s sidekick.” Another couple of steps closer until no more than a couple of feet separated them. She met his eyes and his heart kicked. Her V-neck shirt was just the right side of professional. Yet, the way it revealed her collarbones and hugged her full breasts made him want to reach out and pull her into his arms, kiss her, taste her… “You’re staring, Watson.” He blinked and snapped his gaze from her breasts, rare heat hitting his face. “Sorry. You look nice.” “Thanks.” She raised her eyebrows and nodded toward his chest. “So do you.” He smiled. “Why don’t we go inside? It’s way too hot out here.”
Rachel lives with her husband and two teenage daughters in a small town near Bath in the UK. After having several novels published by small US presses, she secured agent representation in 2011. Since 2013, she has had seven books published by Harlequin Superromance (Templeton Cove Stories) and an eighth coming in Jan 2018. She also has four Victorian romances with eKensington/Lyrical Press.
Rachel is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and Romance Writers of America, and was selected to mentor the Superromance finalist of So You Think You Can Write 2014 contest. When she isn’t writing, you’ll find Rachel with her head in a book or walking the beautiful English countryside with her family. Her dream place to live is Bourton-on-the-Water in South West England. She likes nothing more than connecting and chatting with her readers and fellow romance writers. Rachel would love to hear from you! Links: Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Facebook Street Team - Rachel's Readers | Amazon Author Page | Goodreads
The Rancher's Special Delivery
The "package" is addressed to him, but rancher Sterling Blackwell certainly didn't order a baby! More scandalous still, he and the town's pretty teacher are named as parents. With gossip running wild, only a marriage of convenience can protect little Gracie and their reputations until her real family is found. Heather O'Connor is content to be the spinster schoolmarm of Valentine, Montana…until Gracie's arrival stirs her heart. She can't keep the adorable child without Sterling's help, though she promises not to interfere with his life. But staying aloof from her handsome husband isn't easy with a tiny matchmaker in tow. A mistake brought them together, but love might just make them a family by Christmas…
I love it when a book leaves me in good spirits and smiling, and Ms. Shackelford manages to do that with her stories each and every time!
Mail-Order Christmas Baby does deal with rather serious issues of family dysfunctions and baby abandonment and it definitely isn't all feel-good light fluff, yet it leaves the reader with hope for the better days to come and that message lifted my spirits. Sterling Blackwell and Heather O'Connor find themselves in a predicament many couldn't handle well. I admired their patience, perseverance, and goodwill to look after the precious baby-girl and sacrifices they made for her wellbeing. Heather is a character I easily connected with. She loves order and numbers, enjoys baking and crafts, she is smart, capable, with an independent spirit, she has a kind heart and she is careful to guard it against hurt and pain. Sterling is an alpha male, in charge and commanding, yet his good heart, his kindness, and his generosity are obvious to anyone around him. He is not afraid to take a stand for what he believes is right, he joyfully takes care of the baby and plays with her, and even play the nurse when the need arises. His nightmarish childhood and the verbal abuse from his father still plays a part in his life, both Sterling and Heather need healing from the past pain and wounds to be able to move on. The shyness Sterling and Heather process around each other is endearing, but the connection between them is palpable, their feelings obvious to all around them. I enjoyed the complicated courtship between them, as they try to get to know each other and take care of the baby and the ranch in an all-around difficult situation. Historically, the timeframe of the story is an interesting period, as the country is trying to get back on its feet after the war and trying to build for a better future. The development of technology and the new challenges the people face are well embedded into the tale as it smoothly flows off the pages while paining clear images in the reader's mind of the events occurring. An entertaining and uplifting tale of overcoming obstacles, learning to trust and forgive, opening your heart to the new possibilities offered to you, and daring to face them head-on. A story that will touch your emotions yet will leave you with a smile and faith for the better tomorrows to come ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Wilde In Love by Eloisa James
Wildes of Lindow Castle #1 Adult Historical Romance Avon Books Publication Date October 31, 2017
Lord Alaric Wilde, son of the Duke of Lindow, is the most celebrated man in England, revered for his dangerous adventures and rakish good looks. Arriving home from years abroad, he has no idea of his own celebrity until his boat is met by mobs of screaming ladies. Alaric escapes to his father’s castle, but just as he grasps that he’s not only famous but notorious, he encounters the very private, very witty, Miss Willa Ffynche.
Willa presents the façade of a serene young lady to the world. Her love of books and bawdy jokes is purely for the delight of her intimate friends. She wants nothing to do with a man whose private life is splashed over every newspaper. Alaric has never met a woman he wanted for his own . . . until he meets Willa. He’s never lost a battle. But a spirited woman like Willa isn’t going to make it easy. . . . The first book in Eloisa James’s dazzling new series set in the Georgian period glows with her trademark wit and sexy charm—and introduces a large, eccentric family. Readers will love the Wildes of Lindow Castle! Chapter One June 25, 1778 London There wasn’t a person in all England who’d have believed the boy who grew up to be Lord Alaric Wilde would become famous. Infamous? That was a possibility. His own father had given him that label after Alaric was sent down from Eton at the age of eleven for regaling his classmates with stories of pirates. Piracy wasn’t the problem—the problem was the uncanny way young Alaric had depicted his small-minded Etonian instructors in the guise of drunken sailors. These days he avoided portraying self-righteous Englishmen, but the impulse to observe had never left him. He watched and summarized, whether he was in China or an African jungle. He had always written down what he saw. His Lord Wilde books were a consequence of that impulse to record his observations, a drive that appeared as soon as he learned to write his first sentences. Like everyone else, it had never occurred to him that those books could make him famous. And he didn’t think any differently when he rolled out of his berth on Royal George. All he knew in that moment was that he was finally ready to see his family, all eight siblings, not to mention the duke, duchess, and a stepsister or two. He’d stayed away for years, as if not seeing his eldest brother Horatius’s grave would make his death not true. But it was time to go home. He wanted a cup of tea. A steaming hot bath in a real bathtub. A lungful of smoky London air. Hell, he even missed the peaty smell that hung over Lindow Moss, the bog that stretched for miles to the east of his father’s castle. He was drawing back the curtain over the porthole when the ship’s boy knocked and entered. “There’s a mighty fog, milord, but we’re well up the Thames, and the captain reckons we’ll be at Billingsgate Wharf any minute.” His eyes shone with excitement. Upon on deck, Alaric found Captain Barsley standing in the prow of the Royal George, hands on his hips. Alaric started toward him and stopped, astonished. Through the fog, the dock glimmered like a child’s toy: a blurry mass of pink, purple, and bright blue. It separated into parts as the ship approached. Women. The dock was crowded with women—or, more precisely, ladies, considering all the high plumes and parasols waving in the air. A grin tugged at the corners of Alaric’s mouth as he joined the captain. “What in the devil is going on?” “I expect they’re waiting for a prince or some such foolishness. Those passenger lists they print in the Morning Chronicle are utter rubbish. They’re going to be bloody disappointed when they realize the Royal George hasn’t a drop of royal blood aboard,” the captain grumbled. Alaric, who was related to the crown through his grandfather, gave a shout of laughter. “You have a noble nose, Barsley. Perhaps they’ve discovered a relation you never heard of.” Barsley just grunted. They were close enough now to discern that ladies were crowded as far back as the fish market. They appeared to be bobbing up and down like colored buoys, as they strained to see through the fog. Faint screams suggested excitement, if not hysteria. “This is Bedlam,” Barsley said with disgust. “How are we supposed to disembark in the midst of that?” “Since we’ve come from Moscow, perhaps they think the Russian ambassador is on board,” Alaric said, watching a rowboat set out toward them, manned by a dockworker. “Why in the devil’s name would a flock of women come looking for a Russian?” “Kochubey is a good-looking fellow,” Alaric said, as the boat struck the side of the ship with a thump. “He complained of English ladies besieging him, calling him Adonis, and sneaking into his bedchamber at night.” But the captain wasn’t listening. “What the devil are those women doing on the wharf?” Captain Barsley roared, as the dockworker clambered over the side from the rowboat. “Make way for my gangplank, or I won’t be responsible for the fish having a fine meal!” The man dropped to the deck, eyes round. “It’s true! You’re here!” he blurted out. “Of course I’m here,” the captain snarled. But the man wasn’t looking at Barsley. He was looking at Alaric.
Holiday Wishes by Jill Shalvis
Heartbreaker Bay Contemporary Romance Avon Impulse Publication Date November 7, 2017
It’s Christmastime again in Heartbreaker Bay!
When Sean O’Riley shows up at the Hartford Bed & Breakfast for his older brother’s bachelor weekend, he’s just hoping to make it through the weekend. What he’s not expecting is to come face to face with the woman he lost his virginity to a decade ago—a woman he’s never really forgotten. The last time Lotti Hartford saw Sean, she told him she loved him while he said nothing. Now, ten years later, she’s just looking for a good time. For once, she wants to be the wild and free one, and Sean – the good time guy – is the perfect candidate. But as the weekend continues, Sean realizes that after a lifetime of being the hook-up king, he’s ready to find happily-ever-after, and he wants it with Lotti. But will she open her heart to him again? As Christmas sweeps through the little B&B, he can only hope love and magic are in the air. At the empathetic tone in Sean’s voice, Lotti’s heart and stomach and head all clenched in unison. “What do you mean you can’t give me what I want?” she asked. “All you have to do is walk away.” “Tried that already,” he said. “And it was the biggest mistake of my life.” He brought her hand up to his mouth and met her gaze over their entwined hands. He was looking at her like . . . well, she wasn’t sure what was going on in his head, but her thoughts were racing along with her pulse. “You’re incredible, Lotti. I hope you know that.” Very slowly, clearly giving her time to object, he pulled her into him. Her breath caught at the connection and his eyes heated in response as he slid a hand up her spine and then back down again, pressing her in tight to him from chest to thighs and everywhere in between. His nose was cold at the crook of her neck, but his breath was warm against her skin. She felt his lips press against the sensitive spot just behind her ear and she shivered. “You’re trembling,” he said, his voice low. “Are you cold?” “No,” she whispered. Try the opposite of cold . . . “Nervous?” “No.” Not even close. The way his mouth moved across her skin was making her warm all over. Not that she could articulate that with his body pressed to hers and his fingers dancing over her skin. She was literally quivering as the memories of what it felt like to be touched by him washed over her, as if no time at all had gone by. Yes, she’d let him think that their time together had sucked for her. But it hadn’t. Not even close. That long-ago night he’d evoked feelings and a hunger in her that she’d never forgotten. “I’ve just had a long day,” she said. “I know. I’m going to make it better.” He pressed a kiss at the juncture of her jaw and ear before he made his way to her lips for a slow, hot kiss, his mouth both familiar and yet somehow brand-new. She was so far gone that when he pulled back she protested with a moan, but he held her tight, staring down at her with heated eyes. “Just checking,” he murmured. “Checking what?” “That you want this as badly as I do.”
A Daring Arrangement
by Joanna Shupe Four Hundred #1 Historical Romance Avon Books Publication Date October 31, 2017
Set in New York City’s Gilded Age, Joanna Shupe’s Avon debut introduces an English beauty with a wicked scheme to win the man she loves—and the American scoundrel who ruins her best laid plans…
Lady Honora Parker must get engaged as soon as possible, and only a particular type of man will do. Nora seeks a mate so abhorrent, so completely unacceptable, that her father will reject the match—leaving her free to marry the artist she loves. Who then is the most appalling man in Manhattan? The wealthy, devilishly handsome financier, Julius Hatcher, of course…. Julius is intrigued by Nora’s ruse and decides to play along. But to Nora’s horror, Julius transforms himself into the perfect fiancé, charming the very people she hoped he would offend. It seems Julius has a secret plan all his own—one that will solve a dark mystery from his past, and perhaps turn him into the kind of man Nora could truly love.
Thirty-Seventh Street and Fifth Avenue
New York City February 1890 The pressed tin ceiling was about to cave in on their heads. Lady Honora Parker glanced upward once again, fascinated by what was taking place on the second floor of Sherry’s, one of New York’s most exclusive restaurants. Each raucous thump and horrific crash from above shook the huge gold and crystal chandelier in the main dining room and caused the black-coated waiters to wince. It sounded as if a herd of elephants were up there. From what Nora had seen and heard of the reckless Americans in the last month, she would not be surprised if it were elephants. Nothing seemed off limits here, no idea too big or too wild. Giant houses, like English country estates, lined Fifth Avenue. Imported marble, bright limestone, and shiny gilding blinded from every street corner. Tall buildings stretched high up into the sky. There was a sense of urgency in New York to buy more, build more, do more. It made her long for the dirty, crowded, yet civilized streets of London. “Nora, dear,” her aunt’s gentle voice interrupted her thoughts. “Mr. Van Rensselaer asked you a question.” She turned to the older, heavyset man on her right. Her uncle had arranged the dinner, one of many meetings designed for her to find a “suitable” man. But the idea of marriage to a man old enough to be her father made Nora’s skin crawl. Even her aunt disapproved of Van Rensselaer, saying he was, “a set of heavy eyebrows with a stick up his behind.” It must be said that Nora adored her aunt. More importantly, Nora did not desire a suitable American man, not when a perfectly suitable artist awaited her back in London. Her father hadn’t approved of said artist, unfortunately, which is how she now found herself in America, being trotted around New York like a prized thoroughbred up for auction. That’s the earl’s daughter, they whispered behind her back. Here to find a husband. No, she absolutely would not. Nora had no intention of marrying anyone here. “I apologize,” she replied to the eyebrows. “You were saying?” “Perfectly understandable.” Mr. Van Rensselaer smiled tolerantly at her, as if Nora were some flighty nitwit incapable of following a conversation. Commence additional skin crawling. “I asked if your ladyship missed London.” Yes, I miss Robert terribly. Her heart squeezed in a tight grip, an ache settling in her throat. A young painter, Robert Landon had no money or title to speak of, but she didn’t care. He’d been the first person to see Nora for who she truly was, not just her father’s daughter. He was sweet and romantic and all she desired in this world. After they married, they planned to travel across Europe so Robert could hone his craft. She would keep him company and continue to serve as his “muse,” as he often called her. Her father, the Earl of Stratton, hadn’t approved. He’d been horrified when Robert and Nora were caught together—a scene orchestrated for the earl’s benefit at a dinner party—and from there, things had taken a disastrous turn. Instead of forcing the young lovers to marry, as she’d hoped, her furious father rushed Nora off to his sister in New York. “No one there will have heard of the scandal yet,” he had said. “Your aunt will help you find a proper husband in America. Do not return without one. Now, do not disappoint me, Nora.” Was that not what she’d been doing her entire life, disappointing him? He’d wanted a boy; she’d been born a girl. She had studied, practiced, and tried to be the perfect daughter, and he’d only ignored her. She’d smiled through her debut, eager to make him proud, and he hadn’t bothered to attend any of the balls or dances. Attempts at playing the good daughter, the proper society young woman, had gotten her nothing. Worse, they’d resulted in a trip to a strange city to be dangled in front of every fortune hunter and insufferable snob twice her age. So that proper society young woman was no more. A new Nora had emerged on the cross-Atlantic voyage four weeks ago, one who had decided to take matters into her own hands by concocting an infallible way back to London. The plan was simple. If her father wanted her to find a husband, she’d find the most outrageous man in New York, a fiancé noteworthy and unsuitable enough to land in the papers. An actor? A politician? She hadn’t quite settled on how to achieve it yet . . . but she would. She had to. The news must become public enough to reach the earl’s ear across the Atlantic, horrifying him enough to summon her home. To Robert. Three sets of eyes were staring, so she returned her attention to the conversation at hand. “I do miss it. Certainly not the weather, however.” Aunt Beatrice, Uncle James, and Mr. Van Rensselaer laughed, and conversation droned on until another loud thump sounded from above. Her uncle’s mouth flattened. “I cannot comprehend why that hullabaloo is permitted to continue.” Mr. Van Rensselaer wiped his mouth with the linen serviette. “From what I understand, Mr. Hatcher is up in the ballroom. Some sort of exclusive dinner. This is why your country is superior to ours, Lady Nora, because the undesirables here have no idea how to conduct themselves properly.” By “undesirables,” it was clear he meant men who had earned their wealth, not inherited it as he had. Had he any idea how pompous that made him sound? Though Robert had no money, he was a kind, decent, and loving man with brilliant wit and unshakable morals. That was the perfect man, not one like Mr. Van Rensselaer, who’d visibly sneered at the modest blue silk gown she wore tonight. While it might be conservative compared to the fancier American gowns throughout the dining room, she believed the color showed off her dark chestnut hair and golden-brown eyes. “Mr. Julius Hatcher?” Aunt Bea asked. “The financier?” “Indeed. The man’s a scourge on everything decent and upstanding in this city.” Van Rensselaer cut into his asparagus spears. “Do not worry, though. He doesn’t exactly run in the best circles. In fact, he’s tried numerous times to buy his way into polite society over the years, but they won’t have him.” Though she’d only been in New York a month, Nora had heard of Julius Hatcher. A handsome, brash swell with more money than sense, he threw elaborate parties and associated with a string of high-profile actresses, at least according to the gossip pages. He’d even built a replica of a sixteenth-century French castle on Upper Fifth Avenue—complete with a moat. Though the newspapers touted his exploits with glee, society thought him outrageous and improper. A society he’d apparently tried to buy his way into—and failed. And here her father had disapproved of Robert when there were scoundrels like Julius Hatcher running amok. However was that possibly fair? It would serve the earl right if she brought Hatcher home for—Her brain froze for an instant, stuck on the delicious idea. Oh, indeed, it would serve the earl right. Her father would never approve of Hatcher as a husband, a scoundrel who would bring shame to the venerable Parker name. Surely that would force her father to see Robert in a more favorable light. It would certainly prove that a hardworking, decent man like Robert was good enough to marry the earl’s only daughter. Moreover, the second her father caught wind of her connection to Hatcher and the depravity of his reputation, he would undoubtedly bring her home posthaste. Mr. Hatcher sounded like the answer to her prayers. Another thud sounded from above. This is my chance. She had to find Hatcher and try to convince him to help her. Right now. Immediately. Before she lost this opportunity. She started to push her chair back and a waiter rushed over to assist her. “If you will excuse me, I am feeling a bit overheated.” “Shall I come with you?” her aunt asked as the two gentlemen politely rose as well. “No, please,” she rushed out a little desperately, then tempered her tone. “Enjoy your meal. I’ll put a cool cloth to my neck and return in moments.”
Joanna Shupe has always loved history, ever since she saw her first Schoolhouse Rock cartoon. While in college, Joanna read every romance she could get her hands on and soon started crafting her own racy historical novels.
In 2013, she won Romance Writers of America's prestigious Golden Heart® Award for Best Historical. She now lives in New Jersey with her two spirited daughters and dashing husband. To connect with Joanna, visit JoannaShupe.com. Possum Hollow Series, Book One Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Chick-lit Date Published: October 2017
Jimmie Joe Johnson has spent years living up to his hound dog reputation. If he can’t have the one female he truly wants, then any female will do. When he isn’t off diddlin’ some female, he’s practicing for pool playoffs, determined to get his pool team to Vegas. Not only for bragging rights, but for the free trip to ‘Sin City’ and cash prize that comes along with it.
Baylee Jean Brown has never gotten over her first and only love, Jimmie Joe Johnson. So when she discovers the truth about why he really ended things with her all those years before, she sets out to get her man back. And no other thigh-parting female is going to stand in her way. She just has to find a way to make him take notice of her, considering he’d been avoiding her since that day her spell-threatening aunt (yes, she does come from a long line of witches), threatened to place his man-parts in a jar on her windowsill. Avoiding Baylee Jean Brown in a town the size of Possum Hollow is hard enough, but all of the sudden she’s dressing sexy and aiming all that female heat in his direction. He tries to convince her that she’s better off without him, but how can he expect her to listen to reason when his own heart and body refuse to? Now his man-parts are in a whole different kind of danger. Not because her aunt might still carry through with her threat to pickle them, but because he knows no other woman will ever do. Recent Praise for His Redneck Girl: "Irreverent, bawdy, laugh out loud funny. The most hilarious book I've read in years--maybe ever! In fact, I'm pretty sure this book is the reason the term "ROFLMAO" was invented. If you combined Jeff Foxworthy's humor and Jason Stackhouse's good looks and libido, you'd end up with Jimmie Joe Johnson, one smokin' hot hound dog and one hilarious read!" --New York Times bestselling author C.L. Wilson
“Hey there, Jimmie Joe.” A hand grabbed my ass through my jeans, giving it a firm squeeze.
The cue ball missed the rack completely, bringing about another round of snickers from my teammates. I knew, even without lookin, who that sugar sweet voice and bolder-than-hell hand belonged to. Memories from the past came rushing back. Baylee Jean always knew just how to touch me to drive me wild. I turned to face her. “What the hell...?” My eyes bugged out just like one of them there cartoon characters. And I was pretty sure my mouth was hanging open, too, but I couldn’t say for certain. All my thoughts were centered on the female standing in front of me. My gaze slid down Baylee Jean’s curvy form. Where the hell were her bibs? They hid a lot more flesh than what she was wearing and the last thing I wanted to be at that moment was tempted. “Baylee Jean?” I choked. Smiling, she tucked her hands into the back pockets of the cut-off jean shorts she wore, drawing my gaze back up to the pair of tits ready to burst out of the Bedazzled halter top she had on. Big, round, make-a-man-want-to-nibble-on-them kind of breasts. Her smile widened. “You like? Randi Lynn gave me a few fashion tips.” The words--Hell, yeah! —ricocheted around inside my brain. Instead, all that came out was, “Does your aunt know you’re runnin’ around town dressed like that?” Her smile sagged for all of about two seconds, then it returned full force. She tipped her chin upward. “I’m old enough to dress like I please. And I decided it’s time for a new style.” It had been hard enough avoiding her all these years the way she used to dress. My gaze slid over her again and I bit back a groan. Now, it was gonna be damn near impossible. Bo let out an appreciative whistle. “I like your new style.” The rest of my team, nodding in agreement, stared at Baylee Jean like she was the last beer left in the cooler. “Thanks,” she said and then her gaze slid back to me. “You ain’t said what you think ‘bout my new look, Jimmie Joe.” I was thinking that her breasts would be way too easy to access in that top. And damned if I wasn’t tempted to run my hand up between those tanned thighs and feel the heat I knew existed there. “It looks good on you,” I muttered, trying like hell to tamp down my desire. Her lips parted, drawing my gaze. The tip of her tongue slid out, moving over her lips in a slow, deliberately teasing swipe that had my cock stirring beneath the fly of my jeans. Think of anything but how damn good she looks standing there, I told myself. The only thing guaranteed to come out of my diddling with Baylee Jean Brown was trouble. She reached up to run her fingers back through her long, silky black hair. Not the straight hair I had always seen her with, but hair that had been curled just enough to make it look soft and touchable. “I’ve been dreamin’ ’bout you,” she said with a sexy smile. Damned if her words didn’t send a bolt of sexual hunger straight to my cock. I didn’t wanna hear about her dreams. Didn’t wanna think about her sprawled naked across her sheets period! “Ooh,” Hit Man said with a grin. “Ain’t you a lucky son of a bitch? Havin’ a woman dream about you.” “Most women do,” I replied, shooting a cocky grin to my buddies. Besides, it wasn’t the first time a woman told me she dreamed about me. I couldn’t help that I was the kind of man female fantasies were made of. “Reckon so.” She moved to brush up against me like a cat in heat. “So watcha doin’?” I knew what I wasn’t doing. I wasn’t gonna give in to my thumping cock. And I sure as hell wasn’t accomplishing what I’d come there for—shooting pool. “Gettin’ drunk,” I replied stiffly as I set her away from me. I already had a laundry basket imprint on my ass. I sure as hell didn’t wanna add Callie Rae’s talon marks to my already-tender flesh. “So I can take advantage of you?” she asked, not the least bit deterred in her pursuit. “’Cause I would, you know?” she said, not giving me a chance to reply. And followed that up with another dart of her pink tongue across those glossy lips. Thump. Thump. Hearing her say those things, all grown up and dressed like that was threatening my sanity. With a curse, I tossed the bar stick down on the table and walked back to the bar. “Duffster, you’re up.” “Reckon I ain’t the only one,” he said with a grin as he walked past me. I looked down at the fly of my pants with a groan. “Not gonna take her up on her offer?” T-Bone asked as she reached for her beer. “Hell, no.” I was glad I didn’t have to ask a Magic 8-Ball that question, because I had a gut feeling its response would be--SIGNS POINT TO YES. And there was one big sign doing the pointing right at that moment, just below my favorite GOT BEER belt buckle. The front door swung open and Randi Lynn stepped into the bar. “Well, if it ain’t little Miss Smell-Good,” Skeeter hollered. “Better than smellin’ like a stinky ol’ fish,” she replied with a toss of her long black hair. He sniffed himself with a grin. “You mean my catch-of-the-day cologne ain’t makin’ you wanna strip me naked?” “Only thing I’d be strippin’ you naked for would be a bath.” “You offerin’?” She muttered something under her breath I’d have guessed was a curse or two if she were Baylee Jean. But Randi Lynn’s mouth was about as clean as they come. I reckon their momma had used up all the cursing genes on Baylee Jean. Ignoring Skeeter, who tended to set her off anytime they were near each other, Randi Lynn scanned the room. “Baylee Jean,” she said. “Aunt Callie’s lookin’ for you.” “Shit,” Baylee Jean cursed with a frown. Every bit the girl I remembered. Gotta love a female with a dirty mouth. “She’s drivin’ around town. I cut through the woods to warn you.” “I’ll be right out,” Baylee Jean replied, the frustration clear in her voice. With a nod, her sister turned and disappeared behind the closing door. Baylee Jean’s toe-peeping, red high heels clicked across the cigarette-butt-littered floor as she moved toward the front door. Halfway there, she stopped and turned. I might have had my back to her, but I knew she was looking my way and wanting what she couldn’t have. It was a family gift all us Johnson men had. E.S.P—Extra Sexual Perception. We knew when a woman wanted us. “One of these days, Jimmie Joe,” she said, “you’re gonna be servicin’ me again and only me.” She had no idea how close she was to being serviced right then and there. The second the door closed behind her, air whistled through my teeth. “Holy shit, Jimmie Joe,” Bo said, dragging a hand down over his bushy beard. I reached for my beer, taking several long swallows. Holy shit was right. The button at the top of my fly was about to give in to the pressure beneath it and launch across the smoke-hazed bar. What the hell was going on? Baylee Jean had barely spared me a glance for the past ten years—deservedly so. Now, all of a sudden, she was oozing honey and coming after me like a Bluetick coonhound fixing to tree a coon. My cock twitched. I wanted to be that coon. And despite knowing it was best to keep things the way they had been between Baylee and me, I had to admit I was real tempted to let myself get treed by her. Just once. Maybe then I’d finally be able to get her out of my blood—for good.
Award-winning romance author Lindsey Brookes is a four-time RWA Golden Heart finalist, as well as a past American Title III finalist, and winner of Harlequin's Great American Romance Novel contest. She has written for, Kensington Publishing, Amazon Publishing, and has indie-pubbed several of her young adult and adult contemporary romances. She is represented by Michelle Grajkowski with 3 Seas Literary Agency.
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