Tag Archives: romance

A Masterpiece – Veil Of Shadows Omnibus by M R Pritchard @M_R_Pritchard @booksirens

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Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Angels, demons, ghosts,the walking dead…I am so all over the Veil of Shadows series. So many elements that I love. Combine some Walking Dead, some Lucifer, some Supernatural, some Charmed and I am in Heaven…Hell…and everywhere between. I didn’t realize I had Sparrow Man sitting on my ereader until I went to write a review for the first book of the Veil of Shadows Omnibus by M R Pritchard. It has been patiently waiting to be read since 4.7.16 and after reading it, I was sorry I had waited so long. The good thing about waiting, is now I have the entire series. No waiting to find out the final solution and you will need the entire series to get it.

Sparrow Man

“I was alone. Waiting for my fiance to get home -” “His name is Jim?”

Meg sets out to find him…alone. Every step is dangerous and she is ill equipped to handle it on her own. It’s a good thing she comes across Sparrow. Is it be chance or fate? She thinks he’s crazy. Obsessive about collecting feathers. About Jim, I didn’t see that coming at all. About Meg, I knew something was up with her. After all, she is the star of the show, so she has to special in some way. About Sparrow, his identity slowly came to me, but I didn’t grasp the full story. As Meg finds out her history and lineage, the full betrayal brings her to her knees. I am super pissed off for her and I would love to be there and help her kick some demon ass. The familiarity with The Walking Dead, Supernatural and Lucifer made reading Sparrow Man wicked good and easy to visualize the action. Sparrow Man laid the foundation for the entire series, which needs to be read in order. It did end in a good place with no cliffhanger. I will be devouring Nightingale Girl, Book II, ASAP.

Nightingale Girl

It didn’t take long for me to become enamored with Nightingale Girl. She is outgoing, vivacious, gets around on roller skates, and is locked in the dungeon by her father. She is a bit off, as is Sparrow, her brother. They are under a curse and the only way to lift it is for one of them to serve their time as a Hellion. Their father was a coward and refused to go, so it falls to Sparrow. I feel Nightingale and Meg will be good friends and Nightingale begs her to bring her to Hell with her and Sparrow while he serves his time. It’s so bright in Heaven that Meg goes around with sunglasses. She carries a machete that Lucifer gave her, created in the bowels of Hell and will only cut for her. It made me think of Michonne in The Walking Dead and Mazekeen in Lucifer. She is half dark and half light, trying to figure out where she really belongs. I think the car situation is funny. Hell gets jeeps and Heaven gets Cadillacs. Meg and Sparrow’s relationship in Hell makes me think of Phoebe and Cole in Charmed with some vampiric moments thrown in. Oh, and Noah…I love the ghostie guy. Danger is all around and when it’s time for Meg and Nightingale to leave, Sparrow must stay behind. We end with:

“Monsters aren’t so bad.” Good ol’ Nightingale is here, haunting my dreams…”He’s your monster now, Meg.”

Scarecrow

Scarecrow picks up where Nightingale Girl left off, so the series needs to be read in order. Meg is being hunted. Not just by demons and angels, but she is on the America’s Most Wanted list. Enter her lawyer, Reuben. She doesn’t know it yet, but she gets more than she bargained for with Reuben. She travels from Heaven to Hell to the Earthly plane and back again. Sparrow wants her to return to Hell to be with him, but I don’t blame her for being hesitant. Sooner or later, she will have to choose between the dark and the light, good and evil. The zombies are rising, choices will be made…AND, WOW, that ending. I sure didn’t see it coming….and I LOVE IT.

Raven King

Meg reminds me so much of Michonne (The Walking Dead) and Mazekeen (Lucifer) as she swings her machete, lopping off heads of the walking dead and demons, battling good and evil, inside and out. She must find Sparrow to restore the balance across the planes, as the dead run rampant through Heaven and Hell. The Hellions and Angels body count rises. I am saddened at the loss of some wonderful characters, but sometimes they gotta go for the good of the story. Isn’t that right M? I love how Meg orbs around the planes in a ‘Charmed’ fashion. Meg had been alone for so long, her heartache is a new feeling for her. Vibrun is a brutal, savage ruler. Power mad, greedy. If you stand by his side, be very careful. He is like a rabid dog, liable to bite the hand that feeds him. Where is God, as all this is going on? The ending…OMG!!!!!!

Nightjar

We pick up where we left off. Meg poofed and brought blood and the smell of death back to Hell with her. Skeele had been at her side when she was broken and bloody before, and he’d be by her side again. Hell needed her. She brought light to Hell’s darkness. Thrush, Noah & Nightingale’s baby, are the the heart of Nightjar. We have some lighthearted, laughable moments, and I love when an author gives us those feel good moments when a story is so heavy. Teari’s sorrow is deep and I love that, though she is an angel, she is Meg’s friend and Meg has not given up on healing her wounded body. Everyone knows that Hellions lie, but Angels are just as proficient at lies and deceit. Gabriel, her father, will make a choice…and we have another jaw dropping ending…AND I LOVE IT!

Night Owl

Skeele has been by Meg’s side, sticking like glue. He may be a bit grumpy, but whatever she needs, he is there. She doesn’t know how he feels, but his insecurity makes him feel unworthy. He doesn’t know the secret she harbors. He makes himself weak, loosing weight because he feels she needs the blood and he starves himself so she can have what she needs.

I have pledged my life to her, he thought, why does she despise me? I make her physically ill. She can’t even look at me.

I chuckle here, chuckle there. I’m loving Jed and Shay. I love that they want a dog. I love that they sit around the table eating dinner in Hell, like a Lifetime Christmas movie.

Why is she running? No, no, no. But, this adventure ended up being so much fun…for me.

He should stay so I don’t wind up fucking a log in the backyard.

Meg had me cracking up. There is so much I want to share, but I don’t want to spoil anything. I am reveling in Meg’s story. She is finally accepting her role.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Veil of Shadows!!!!!!!! The world she created is filled with adventure, romance, danger, love, Heaven meets Hell, the walking dead roam above and below, and fate and destiny are woven into a spellbinding fantasy. Does god have a plan?

I am awed by M R Pritchard’s writing and she is definitely at the top of my must read list! This is the second mind blowing series of hers that I have read! The Phoenix Project was the first.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

AMAZON SYNOPSIS

Some people are cursed. Or in Meg’s case, damned. She’s on the run, harboring a deadly secret. Sparrow, an unexpected travel companion, knows she’s hiding something more profound. Unimpressed by tales of her sinful past, he hungers for the truth, especially about the day she killed those seven men.

Meg finds, the Seven Kingdoms of Heaven are far from wonderful. Meg’s promise to never leave is tested as Sparrow’s behavior grows strange, yet again. As the daughter of an Archangel and the Devil’s own spawn, Meg knows paradise comes with complications. Love, however, has the power to change even a world-weary country girl, even if it means losing her mind.

There is no rest for the wicked. Meg’s determination to forge her own path leads her to the Earthen plane, where she battles personal demons and seeks a new life. But the absence of Sparrow is a heavy burden, and Nightingale haunts her dreams. To make matters worse, an unknown hand keeps unleashing zombies nearby, forcing Meg to confront her heritage.

The relentless monsters of her world show no mercy. Without wings and Sparrow by her side, Meg struggles to find her place in her realm. She hatches a plan to rescue Sparrow, but it spirals into disaster.

Haunted by Sparrow’s shocking betrayal, Meg faces a breaking point. Caring for an amputee Angel and two refugees from the Earthen plane adds to her mounting pressure. With King Gabriel imprisoned and a kidnapped baby Thrush in her care, time is running out to prevent Thrush from sharing the Nightjar’s fate.

Revenge and redemption collide, forcing Meg to confront her inner demons and desires. Will her quest for vengeance consume her, or can she find the strength to protect those she holds dear? In a race against time and her own turbulent emotions, Meg’s choices will determine the fate of those she loves.

As Meg grapples with the heartbeat in her womb and the constant threat to her friends, she decides it’s best to disappear. Fleeing to the Earthen plane to hide and plan her next move, she encounters mysterious assistance amid thunderstorms and insatiable hungers. Will Meg destroy the one man who would follow her through hell and high water?

Discover a world where love battles darkness, destinies entwine, and wickedness knows no rest in this thrilling dark fantasy romance omnibus.

ABOUT M R PRITCHARD (from Amazon)

M. R. Pritchard is a two-time Kindle Scout winning author, her short story “Glitch” has been featured in the 2017 winter edition of THE FIRST LINE literary journal, and her short story “Moon Lord” has been featured in Chronicle Worlds: Half Way Home (Part of the Future Chronicles). M. R. Pritchard holds degrees in Biochemistry and Nursing. She is a northern New Yorker transplanted to the Gulf Coast of Florida who enjoys coffee, mint chocolate, cloudy days, and reading on the lanai.

Visit her website MRPritchard.com and sign up for her newsletter. You’ll get a monthly newsletter with updates, day to day shenanigans, and book deals.

MY M R PRITCHARD REVIEWS

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Giveaway – Vacancy by Linda Kage @XpressoTours @lindakage

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Vacancy
Linda Kage
Publication date: December 13th 2023
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

HOW DO YOU RENT A ROOM FROM A GHOST WITHOUT EVEN KNOWING IT?

This year was supposed to be different because Oaklynn had a plan.

Stop partying.
Stay away from guys.
Focus on classes.
Graduate!

All she needed to do was find a place to stay near campus, and she’d be set. But when she finds the perfect room to rent, it brings the mysterious Damien into her life.

Her friend tries to warn her that he’s dangerous. He has secrets and darkness in his eyes. But the only danger Oaklynn can tell that he poses is to her attention. He’s all she can think about. Except, he’s hiding something, and when the truth comes out that her new roommate was murdered…a decade ago…nothing will ever be the same again.

So yeah, this year will definitely be different.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

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EXCERPT:

Completely out of my depth with this guy, I picked up one of the pillows from his bed and hugged it to my chest, trying to muffle the impact he was having on me. But his smell rippled up from the fabric, and my body went into a state of hypersensitivity.

“So…” I said, drawing in a deep breath and trying to sound casual, even though every part of me was trembling with arousal.

Damien left the doorway to take a single, cautious step in my direction. “Did I pass inspection?”

I shrugged, still trying to play it cool. “For the time being.” Then, I took a step forward as well, holding my breath the entire time in anticipation.

Shaking his head, he eased closer. “I still can’t believe you’re standing in my room right now.”
Taking my turn, I shifted an inch toward him. “Why not?”

“I don’t know.” His whiskey eyes searched mine as if reading all my secret desires. “I kind of thought I may never see you again.”

I paused and tipped my head curiously. “But you’re my landlord.”

Lifting one shoulder, he narrowed the gap until there was only about two feet separating us. “I’ve had lots of tenants that I only met once and never saw again. And I didn’t want you to be one of those. I picked up my phone half a dozen times to text, but I didn’t know if it was okay to do that after…”

When he lifted his eyebrows in question, silently asking if it would’ve been okay, I merely sent him a mysterious smile. “What would you have said if you’d texted?”

His lips twitched, finding amusement. “Probably only that I wanted to see you again.”

Catching my breath, I squeezed the pillow against me tighter. “Say it now,” I commanded.

Damien’s eyes turned predatory. Moving in until only the pillow separated us, he whispered, “I want to see you again.”

“Okay,” I whispered back.


Author Bio:

Linda writes romance fiction from YA to adult, contemporary to fantasy. Most Kage stories lean more toward the lighter, sillier side with a couple meaningful moments thrown in. Focuses more on entertainment value and emotional impact.
Published since 2010. Went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children’s literature from The Institute of Children’s Literature. Then graduated with a Bachelors in Arts, English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.

Now she lives with hubby, two daughters, cat Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas, USA. Farm girl. Parents were dairy farmers. Was youngest of eight. Big family. Day job as a cataloging library assistant.

Harry Potter House Gryffindor, Patronus White Stallion, character match Hagrid. Supernatural Team Dean. Game of Thrones Team Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister. The Walking Dead Team Daryl. Outlander Team Jamie Fraser. Teen Wolf Team Stiles. Avenger Team Thor…or Hulk (can’t decide). Justice League Team Flash. Arrow Team Stephen Amell. Stranger Things obsessed. Heard Laurel, not Yanny.

Started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club. Then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now all over the place with her romance reading tastes.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook Page / Facebook Group / Twitter / Instagram


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Christmas Thrills – Dashing Through The Fear by Amanda Siegrist @amanda_siegrist

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Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Welcome to Sleighville. Where you are sure to have a holly, jolly time.

Sure, the title for Dashing Through The Fear by Amanda Siegrist gave me that shivery feeling of trepidation, but the cover added the extra ‘dash’. Not just with the content, that gave me a warm, cozy feeling, mixed with fear, but the font was a perfect fit.

I do love small towns, where everyone knows your business. Some of the time it adds a fun element to the story, other times it gives a character others to turn to in times of trouble…and ‘Eve’ will need all the help she can get. First, with a place to live, then a job.

She, literally, runs into Griffith and she will find it hard to avoid him, since he lives next door and is the chief of police of Sleighville. Who would imagine a hunkalicious guy like him would have a pet like Walter., but they are a great fit. Walter is a cat with one eye and half a front paw. Critters add a little something extra to every story, for me.

No one knew why the rental property had such a high turnover rate. Hmmmm…

Eve’s job search is a success, getting hired at Noel’s Cafe. She had worked in a bakery before, so I have a feeling this, along with other things, will be a perfect fit.

Mystery, suspense, thrillers like Dashing Through The Fear by Amanda Siegrist is predictable, but she always manages to create characters that wiggle their way into your heart and a surprise or two along the way. Gaslighting and psychological warfare are only two of things that Eve will have to deal with. There is also the past that she so desperately tried to leave behind. I love how she, eventually, solves the problem. Very nice, Amanda.

I love that we have two mysteries going on at the same time and I didn’t realize it…until Amanda Siegrist showed me, though it was right in front of my face. That’s always a good sign of a well written story., keeping me so busy reading, I forget to try and solve the crime. Actually, those two mysteries apply to Eve, while Griffin has his own issues that hit very close to home. I love that miscommunication never reared it’s ugly head. Will they come together, healing each other? Of course. It wouldn’t be a great romance if they didn’t. I don’t feel like I’m spoiling anything, because it’s pretty easy to figure out in romance novels…unless we don’t have a happy ending and Amanda doesn’t write those. LOL

A fun note – I was reading along…and there was my name, Sherry. It’s always fun to see my name in a novel, even if I am only a minor character. 🙂

Normally, a story like Dashing Through The Fear by Amanda Siegrist is predictable, and, yes, some of it was, but there is a sense that something is coming. It’s just a matter of what and when, keeping a sense of trepidation lurking throughout the pages. Thanks, Amanda, for another very entertaining story.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

From USA Today bestselling author Amanda Siegrist comes a brand new series. An intense holiday romantic suspense that will make you swoon and hold you on the edge-of-your-seat until the very end.

Welcome to Sleighville. Where you are sure to have a holly, jolly time.

Running is her only option. He made sure of that. Where better to run to than the last place he’d ever think to look for her. Sleighville. A small, quaint town that celebrates Christmas—every. Single. Day. Just the thought makes her want to puke, but she’s out of options. Nothing prepared her for small-town camaraderie. Everyone knowing everyone and everything. Where she lives, where she works, and worst of all…they know something is off. That she’s not who she claims to be.

Griffin isn’t sure what to make of his new neighbor, but one thing he does he can’t resist a puzzle. She’s skittish, wary, and one of the most beautiful women he’s ever met. It’s not hard to fall for her, which is bad. He has no doubt she’s hiding something—or hiding from something. If only she’d let him in, trust him with her secrets. No amount of Christmas cheer is going to sway her his way, but patience and time might. Problem is, he fears he doesn’t have much time. She’s one step away from running. No doubt not her first time, but he’ll do whatever it takes to make sure she stays right where she is. In his town, and in his arms.

  • Genre: Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
  • 236 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Expected publication December 12, 2023
  • Series: A Sleighville Novel, Book I

ABOUT AMANDA SIEGRIST

Amanda Siegrist

Love! Gimme some love and heaps of romance. I have a sappy heart that just loves two people meeting, going through the cycles of a relationship, and ultimately, falling in love. Give me a good book like that and I’m a happy camper:)

I write contemporary and romantic suspense, but I am partial to suspense. I just love a good mystery.

Besides writing, I love baking, crafts, and baseball…oh, and meeting new people. *smiles*

Website  /  Twitter  /  Facebook / Instagram

MY AMANDA SIEGRIST REVIEWS

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Review – Falling For Mr Wright by Olivia Boothe @TheOliviaBoothe

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Amazon / Kindle Unlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

This one is for the girls who still believe in modern fairytales and in a prince who not only spoils you rotten, but knows where to find the spot….

And I smiled. This is the opening to Falling for Mr Wright by Olivia Boothe. Does it make YOU smile?

I do not actively seek out contemporary romance novels, but when it is by a favorite author of mine, I will give it a go. Good writing is good writing and able to draw me into the book, as Olivia Boothe did with Falling For Mr Wright.

Sara works for the Rebecca Fitzgerald Dance Company. Why she isn’t a dancer herself, is a story I am not in a position to tell, but we all have baggage, don’t we? Her boss is a dragon, and I don’t mean the paranormal kind. She is mean, cruel. Everything about the workplace makes me want to tell her it’s time to move on.

When her favorite coffee shop is closed, she is forced to go the next closest one. There’s no way she can go to work without a coffee for her boss. That’s where Tom met Coffee Girl and he couldn’t get her out of his mind.

I definitely got the Pretty woman vibe. Vivian and Kit. Edward and Phillip. I loved their cat and mouse game, at times wondering who is the pursued and who is the pursuer. Their need to control their emotions had me smiling. We all know, the heart wants what the heart wants. Sure we have some baggage and guilt, and all that angst, but I believe love will win out.

Tom was so blindingly beautiful, my retinas stung.

“I’ll tell you what the problem is. Your hoo-ha has cobwebs.”

And that is what I mean by some great writing. I loved the description and dialogue.

Recommended for adults and you can get the list of warnings on her website. Also, Falling For Mr Wright was written under another title, Wicked Dance, I had never read it, so it wasn’t an issue for me. There will be two books in the series and seeing I enjoyed this one so much, I can hardly wait to get my hands on the next one. Hmmmm, I wonder what couple it will be.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Protective alpha billionaire meets shy contemporary dancer in this spicy, slow-burn, billionaire who spoils, touch her and you perish, contemporary romance.

After my high school sweetheart up and leaves me one day without a single explanation, I vow never to let myself love another man. I’ve managed to keep that promise for the last four years—that is, until I inadvertently fall into the arms of New York City’s most eligible bachelor, and now my whole world is flipped upside down. Tom Wright is everything I don’t need in my life, but stars above, he’s everything I never knew I wanted. The man is intoxicating, and I can’t seem to resist the way he looks at me or the way his touch makes me feel alive again. But one dark secret could ruin everything, and I don’t know if I’m prepared to endure that kind of pain all over again.

My life is pretty simple. I work hard and I party even harder. I own New York City’s most reputable real estate agency, catering to the filthy rich and notoriously famous. There’s no shortage of beautiful women willing to share my bed, though everyone knows I have one golden rule: No commitments. Ever. But when Sara Hart unexpectedly falls into my life, something about her timid smile and gorgeous brown eyes makes me want to throw the damn rule book out the window. Every time she’s near, my blood spikes with a raging fire I can’t contain. So, when my shadowed past resurfaces, unearthing ghosts I’d rather remain buried, I’m forced to make a decision that may cost me the only woman I’ve ever truly loved. And that’s a price I’m not ready to pay.

Intended for mature audiences 18 years+ Please check author’s website for a comprehensive list of content warnings.

Previously published as Wicked Dance, Falling For Mr. Wright is the 1st book in Olivia Boothe’s popular steamy contemporary romance duet. This new edition sports a new title, glow-up cover, fresh edits, re-imagined scenes, and additional chapters in the MMCs POV.

  • Genre: Contemporary, Literary, Romance
  • 432 pages, Kindle Edition
  • Published October 4, 2023 by Three Brothers Press

ABOUT OLIVIA BOOTHE

REAL LOVE AS IT IS. MESSY, COMPLICATED & SINFULLY ADDICTIVE.

Born in Colombia and raised in New Jersey since the age of eight, Olivia always dreamed of becoming a story teller.

If you enjoy deadly-hot romance novels with deep, layered plots, she’s your gal. Because it’s not just about the first kiss and the happily ever after, it’s about everything in between.

In addition to writing contemporary and paranormal romance, Olivia is currently working on an adult contemporary fantasy.

Fun Facts: When not locked away in her writing tower at the wee hours of the night, Olivia works a government 9-5 job and manages a house full of males (a husband, three sons, and a doggo named Hunter). On occasion, she summons her tribe for a night of wine and shenanigans. Dark chocolate is her kryptonite, she hates/loves to ugly cry during movies, and is a die-hard Bon Jovi fan.

Don’t forget to subscribe to her newsletter to receive exclusive news and updates such as book releases, giveaways, sales, events, sneak peeks and bonus material for upcoming projects.

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Giveaway – Good Elf Gone Wrong by Alina Jacobs @XpressoTours @AlinaJWrites

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Good Elf Gone Wrong
Alina Jacobs
Publication date: November 14th 2023
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

When you catch your fiancé cheating on you with your sister on Christmas Eve, the elf hat comes off.
I’ve always been the good girl—the anti Scrooge—the one who sacrifices for her guests, bakes cookies for her neighbors, and stays late after a party to clean up.
I don’t mind. I like being on the nice list.

I kept smiling when I caught my fiancé coming down my sister’s chimney on Christmas Eve.
I gave polite congratulations when they got engaged on Christmas morning.
And I even offered to help decorate for their holiday wedding despite the fact that was supposed to be my dream wedding.

But when my sister cuts up our great-grandmother’s one-hundred-year-old wedding dress and turns it into a skank show, even though that was the dress I was going to wear on my wedding day?
Well, this elf is torching down the North Pole.

And what better way to get revenge than giving those cheaters a taste of their own medicine?
This good elf is bringing the bad boy home for Christmas.
Hudson is a six-foot-five, coldhearted, tattooed bad elf with a perpetual sneer and washboard abs.
He’s exactly my sister’s type.
And he’s going to help me nuke her wedding from orbit on the night before Christmas.

What he is not supposed to do is grab my ass in the kitchen while I bake gingerbread.
Or crawl in my bed half naked.
And he’s definitely not supposed to smirk and tell me to commit to our fake relationship right before he goes down on me.

Guess there’s a reason the good elves stay far away from the bad.

Good elves of Christmas unite! We’re ogling the tattooed chests of shirtless bad boys, baking massive amounts of cookies, drinking all the wine, and trying to survive recently divorced grandmothers who have a pathological obsession with our love lives. This standalone holiday romantic comedy has all the Christmas cheer you can fit in your stocking and a happily ever after, guaranteed!

Goodreads / Amazon

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EXCERPT:

Knitting clutched in my hands, I turned to the bad boy sitting next to me.

“Do … um …” I cleared my throat. “Do you have a girlfriend?”

His finger paused on the page he was turning. He fixed those pale-silver eyes on me, a dusty gray like the winter sky.

“No. Why? Are you offering?”

“Sort of. See, I kind of need to break up my sister and her boyfriend. She’s dating my ex. He’s a jerk. It’s complicated. But I need you to be my boyfriend so I can ruin her wedding. I don’t know if you do that type of work?”

I smiled hopefully.

The book closed with a loud thud.

He looked angry.

“Er, never mind,” I squeaked and held up my knitting. “I’ll get started on those baby socks. Forget I said anything.”

But he didn’t go back to his book.

“So you want a fake boyfriend.”

“Um, yeah. I mean that was the plan. But plans change …”

Those ghostly eyes still locked on mine, he leaned over, his huge body crowding my space.

I scrunched against the window.

“You sure you can handle it?” he asked in a deep, gravelly voice. He smelled like leather and the winter wind.

No. No, I don’t think I can.

I swallowed. The empty Advent calendar was digging into my side.

“Yes,” I squawked.

“Prove it,” he said, his breath cool on my cheek.

He twisted out of his jacket, the ridges of muscle under the tight gray T-shirt flexing and rippling as he shrugged off the garment.

“Give me a hand job.” The baritone voice deepened. “I have my jacket on my lap. No one will know. Just go for it.”

My eyes were about as big and round as Pugnog’s and ready to pop out of my head.

“Unzip my fly,” he breathed against my mouth, “and stroke my cock.”

My stomach was flip-flopping. The air between us was supercharged, and my skin felt tight and prickly.

“I-I can’t,” I stammered.

He huffed out a laugh, smirked, and pulled his jacket back on, the leather creaking.

“Thought so.” He sat back in his seat and opened up his book. “You’re weak. You have an elaborate revenge plan all mapped out, yet you clearly can’t handle having a fake boyfriend.”


Author Bio:

If you like steamy romantic comedies with a creative streak, then I’m your girl!

Architect by day, writer by night, I love matcha green tea, chocolate, and books! So many books…

Sign up for my mailing list to get the free novella, AFTER HIS PEONIES, along with special bonus content, giveaways, and more!

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub


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The Spotlight Is On Love And Reservations by Dee Rollings @XpressoTours

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Love and Reservations
Dee Rollings
(The Pacifica Series, #2)
Publication date: May 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

He’s her enemy… and her roommate.

Blake Thomas has no patience for weddings. As the general manager of a popular Santa Barbara resort, she sees far too many love-struck couples pass through her doors. She’d rather curl up with a book or go geocaching than try to find “the one”.

After an underhanded trick leaves Blake virtually homeless, she’s forced to move in with the one man she’d rather keep firmly tucked away in her past.

Sal is a talented chef with a big bank balance and an even bigger ego. He promises to take Blake in while she navigates the real estate market – on one condition – she’s got to pretend to be his girlfriend to impress his estranged parents.

Caught up in a tumultuous fake relationship and determined to avoid reawakening painful memories, Blake decides to focus on everything else she’s balancing: renovations at work, her best friend’s wedding, and an offer for a major promotion.

But as long-buried sparks begin to ignite beneath the surface, Blake and Sal begin to realize that their scheme is becoming all too real. However, Sal is hiding more secrets than she ever imagined…

Can Blake heal from her past and find the courage to open her heart? Or will her cynicism and distrust keep her from taking a chance at true love?

The second novel in The Pacifica Series, Love and Reservations will have your heart fluttering from beginning to end.

Add to Goodreads / Pre-order


Author Bio:

Dee Rollings was born and raised in the big city, but her heart lives in the forest. She does her best writing on the porch of her tiny house in the woods when she’s not wrangling her kid and her dogs or having one-sided conversations with chipmunks. She has a gorgeous husband who resembles Paul Bunyan, builds the best campfires, and makes all her dreams come true.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram


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Giveaway – The Wicked Knight by by Diana A Hicks @diana_hicks @xpressotours

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Wicked Knight 2
Diana A. Hicks
(Knight Duet, #2)
Publication date: November 7th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Maxim Belov is Papa’s favorite son.

Like his father, Maxim is ruthless and always gets what he wants. He wants me.

He doesn’t even care that our families are mortal enemies,
or that I’ve never seen his face.

Because of him, I’m forced into a marriage with a stranger.

On our wedding night, when I finally come face to face with my worst enemy, my entire life is turned upside down.

Authors Note: Wicked Knight is book two in the Knight Duet, set in The Society World. And it’s best enjoyed if you read book one first.

Goodreads / Amazon


Author Bio:

Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.

When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook Page / Facebook Group / Twitter / Instagram / TikTok / Amazon / Bookbub


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  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
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Giveaway – Babies In Twinkle Falls by Freda Ann @XpressoTours

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Babies in Twinkle Falls
Freda Ann
(Twinkle Falls, #4)
Publication date: November 28th 2023
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Kylee Croft finds herself pregnant and alone as an only child of her deceased parents. Her father died soon after her birth, and her mother recently passed. With her grandparents also deceased, all that’s left of the family she’d known were photos…or so she thought.

Uncovering the biggest secret of her mother’s life, Kylee leaves the idyllic town of Chantilly, France for Twinkle Falls, Vermont in hopes of finding the family she never knew existed.

Soon after arriving, she becomes friends with her handsome co-worker, Trace Holberg, a single dad raising twin boys by himself.

As Kylee and Trace’s relationship grows, she forges a friendship with Bridgette Dupont, the woman who gave her a job when she desperately needed one. She’s the same woman Kylee believes to be the sister she never knew about, and the daughter of a father who’s very much alive.

Will Bridgette and her father accept the news Kylee believes to be the truth, or will her hopes and dreams of a new family be shattered?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

(Kylee and Bridgette)

“I think all of this could be a product of your imagination working overtime.”

“It’s not made up, Bridgette, I swear. Mummy gave me the first photo years ago, and it’s the only one I had of my father until—”

“Quit saying that!” She huffs, “I don’t even know for sure if the man in that picture is my father. Though, let’s say it is. There’s no possible way you could be his daughter.”

“Why? Am I not good enough to be a Dupont?”

“That’s not what I meant, and you know it.”

“Do I? We’re total opposites, Bridgette. You’re a successful baker who went to some prestigious culinary school, and I’m a struggling, knocked-up girl who takes any job she can to make ends meet.”

“Stop that. It sounds like you’re trying to play on my sympathy so I’ll change my mind about that photo.”

“Believe what you want.” I wince when my lower abdomen tightens. Reflexively rubbing it, I continue, “Like I said, she never talked about him. Mummy said they were only together a short time; however, he was in the Navy, and he died when I was just a baby.”

“There you go…that proves my father cannot be yours, because mine is very much alive.”

Still massaging my aching belly, I propose, “Well, maybe she lied about that part for some reason, I don’t know. Was your father ever in the Navy?”

“That means nothing—a lot of men have been in the Navy.”

“That sounds like a yes if you ask me.”

“Well, I didn’t ask you.” Her eyes flutter when she turns and takes a few steps.

“You’re avoiding the question.”

She turns back around. “He was, though only for a short time. I’ll have you know, my parents have been happily married for thirty-nine years, so there’s no way anything like you’re insinuating ever could’ve happened.”


Author Bio:

Freda was born in southern New Jersey but grew up in Florida. She has loved writing her entire life. After retiring from a career in law enforcement, she knew it was time to fulfill her lifelong dream of being a published author.

She’s the author of The Hawaii Series, proudly named from her love of the beautiful Hawaiian Islands. It’s a three-book series with all of them written as standalone books.

Freda loves her large family, horses, dogs, cat, and close friends. She hosts monthly family dinners at her home in the country, which she shares with her husband.

She loves baking (she owned and operated a cupcake business for years), cooking, yoga, crocheting, nature and traveling with the love of her life.

What helps her write? Music makes her happy! If music doesn’t give her the right motivation, she puts on a romantic movie, usually from the Hallmark Channel, which she can’t get enough of!

Freda speaks her mind and pushes perfection to its limit. She strives to be her best, most positive self she can be in life. With time, determination, and practice, she believes anything is possible.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest


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Giveaway – Fallen Raven Duet by Diana A Hicks @XpressoTours @diana_hicks

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Fallen Raven Duet
Diana A. Hicks
Publication date: July 24th 2023
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Now a 2023 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Romance – Contemporary genre!

“Diana A. Hicks painted a slow-burn romance balanced on the dark edge of danger…Fallen Raven will capture the minds of readers who enjoy Mafia political romances with plenty of action to entertain them.” – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer

Both books in the Fallen Raven Duet included in one bundle.
Fallen Raven, Book One

Seventeen-year-old Aurora Vitali didn’t have the best life in Las Vegas, but it was a place to call home. When her father scores a win after so many fails, he abruptly moves the whole family to the Upper East Side in New York City. Aurora is quickly seduced by the glitz and glamour of her new world, where designer clothes, limos, and beach parties are the norm.

Her first day at their elite school, she meets Enzo Alfera, one of the royals. He’s rich, gorgeous, and so dangerous. The magnetic pull she feels when he’s near is absolutely irresistible. She’s warned to stay away, and that’s exactly what she plans to do. Except every time their paths cross, neither one of them can deny their powerful attraction.

Going against their parents’ wishes, they give into their burning desires. He’s dark and cunning. She’s sweet and innocent. Together, they are explosive.

But their parents have plans of their own. The choices they make to get ahead threaten to pull Aurora and Enzo apart. Now the star-crossed lovers have to decide if their forbidden love is worth going against everything and everyone.

Enzo knows what he wants. And he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep Aurora for himself. If he fails, it could destroy them both.

Fallen Raven, Book Two
I should’ve stayed dead.
I should’ve run when he challenged the winning bid.
I should’ve said no to his contract.

But the ruthless Don Enzo Alfera gets what he wants.
He wants revenge.
More than anything, he wants me.

A Note from Diana: Fallen Raven Duet is a standalone romance, featuring Enzo and Aurora, and is part of the Crime Society World. No cliffhangers. Complete Story. This modern day Romeo and Juliet retelling is about never letting go. Check TW
This book features:
He falls first
Star-Crossed lovers
Angst, family feud
Forbidden love

Goodreads / Amazon


EXCERPT

“You’re bleeding, Maxim. Let me look.” He gestured for Maxim to sit.

Maxim raised his hand and stopped Anatoli in his tracks. “No. Let my wife tend to my wounds.”

“Ooo-kay.” Anatoli looked as confused as I was.

“Leave us.” Maxim braced his good arm on his knees and released a breath.

“Everything you need is in the bathroom,” Anatoli said to me then turned to leave. He paused when he spotted the unhinged door. “I’ll get someone to fix that.”

“Thanks.” I smiled at him.

The wife in me wanted to tell my husband to go to hell. But the doctor in me was already thinking of all the things that could go wrong if I didn’t check on Maxim. He was tired because his body was working overtime, trying to heal itself. But also, because he just cracked open a heavy wooden door with his foot.

Cursing under my breath, I strode to the bathroom and got all the essentials to wash out his wounds. When I returned, Maxim hadn’t moved an inch.

“We should rinse your wounds twice a day, then cover them. They’ll heal faster that way.” I approached him tentatively, the way one would do with a wild animal because that was exactly what he was. My gaze swept from the splint and stained gauze to the blood seeping through his white dress shirt in two different places. “I need to take a look first.”

He nodded. With a sigh, he undid all the buttons, then sat back to let me help him with it. I pulled the fabric up then pushed it over his shoulders. The soft hair on his chest bristled the skin on my arms and chest. To my surprise, the gentle exchange eased my nerves.

“Getting out of bed today was a bad idea.” I picked at the gauze and removed it.

“I had things to attend to.”

“Right. You had that illegal wedding to go to.” I shot back.

“Yes.” He chuckled. “I did.”

“This shouldn’t hurt. It’s just water.” I squeezed the squirt bottle and rinsed his entire shoulder.

Even if fear wasn’t a big part of the equation anymore, I still couldn’t get myself to look at him. Not even when he cocked his head to look at me. His hot breath left a warm trail that ran from my cheek all the way down to my hip. He gripped his thigh with long fingers as his inspection of me continued.

“Little late for that, don’t you think?” I sneered.

“What’s that?”

“Buyer’s remorse.”

“I didn’t pay for you.” He took a lock of my hair. “Your hair is shorter.”

“I cut it after…” I’d cut it shortly after Luca left, but Maxim didn’t need to know that. I swallowed and bit my tongue for offering him intimate details of my life. “You were spying on me.”

“Not for long.” He squeezed his eyes shut. “Your scent reminds me of something. But I can’t remember what?”

“Probably your dungeon. I’ve showered six times since I left and I can’t seem to scrub the stench off me.” I shuffled back. “I need you to get up to get the other two sutures.”

Slowly, as if he were trying not to scream in pain, he rose to his feet. When I stepped into his circle, he bent down to whisper in my ear, “You smell fine to me.”

The jittery energy intensified and magnified my senses. I could feel the air between us shifting, his breath on my neck, and the sandalwood scent on his skin. Though I kept my head down, I could feel his eyes on me, regarding me with curiosity. He was the wounded one. But he watched me so intently, it reminded me of a predator spying on his prey.

“Stop messing with your splint. Or your nose will not heal properly.” I pointed at the blood fingerprints on it.

“It itches.” He grunted. “How long before I can take it off.”

“How long has it been. It usually takes about two weeks.” I squirted his side.

He flinched, reaching for my wrist. I froze, keeping my gaze on the stitches and the blood running down his side. And because my brain hates me, I thought of our impending wedding night. Though by now, I was sure that would not happen today. The man could barely move without wincing. As formidable as he was, and though he acted like a beast, he was still human.

His fingers slid up my arm. “This one hurts the most.”

“I bet. There was a lot of debris to clear out. I had to dig deep.” I freed my hand. “It is healing fine. I can give you something for the pain.”

“Fuck.” He made to touch his wound then stuffed his hand in the pocket of his trousers. “I don’t know if I should risk taking more drugs from you. Will you poison me this time?”

In his defense, I had considered the option. “Not tonight.”

He scoffed. “If Anatoli hadn’t come to his senses, I’d still be unconscious.”

So Anatoli was the one who foiled our plans. Coward. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I shrugged. “Maybe you too will come to your senses soon.”

I strode to the bathroom and rummaged through the medical kit Anatoli had left for me. I went through a bunch of bottles until I found a strong pain killer. Something to knock Maxim out for the night. And every night after that, until I found a way out of this place.

“For the pain.” I offered him two pills and a glass of water.

“Am I so ugly, you can’t even look at me?” He took the meds and knocked them back. “My senses are fine, by the way.”

“Right. Because kidnapping a woman for revenge is the epitome of mental health.” I turned to leave.

He wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me toward him. “You have no idea what your family is capable of.”

“You’re wrong. I know exactly what they can do.” I jerked to free myself, but he held me tighter. I was no match for his strength. I exhaled. “One day my love will find me. He will make sure you pay.”

“Your love?” He let out a dark chuckle.

“Yes.” I panted a breath. “And when he does, he will chop you up and feed you to your dogs.”

“He sounds violent.”

Luca was an erudite, a distinguished professor despite all my efforts to corrupt him. He wasn’t a brute like Maxim, punching his way through doors. But regardless of their extreme opposites, Luca would find a way to save me. I knew he would. I just had to hang on a little longer.

“He will come for me. You can be sure of that.”

“The only thing I can be sure of, princess, is that it’s time for bed. And since Prince Charming isn’t here, I guess I would have to do.”

Author Bio:

Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.

When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook Page / Facebook Group / Twitter / Instagram / TikTok / Amazon / Bookbub


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Giveaway – Once Upon A Charming Bookshop by Heatherly Bell @XpressoTours

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Once Upon a Charming Bookshop
Heatherly Bell
(Charming, Texas, #6)
Published by: Harlequin Special Edition
Publication date: November 28th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

Time to rewrite their story?

He’d always simply been her best friend. But when Noah Cahill moved back to town, bookstore owner Twyla Thompson knew something was different. Was it holiday memories of the loss they’d both shared or Noah’s surprising decision to reignite a dangerous career? Their solid friendship had been through so much, yet now Twyla grew breathless every time Noah was near. Why wasn’t Noah—handsome, fun, but never one to cross the line—showing any signs of stopping?

From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.

Charming, Texas

Book 1: Winning Mr. Charming
Book 2: The Charming Checklist
Book 3: A Charming Christmas Arrangement
Book 4: A Charming Single Dad
Book 5: A Charming Doorstep Baby
Book 6: Once Upon a Charming Bookshop

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

Then with little warning other than the sudden shine in his eyes, he hauled her by the neck to him and kissed her, square on the lips. It was a deep and long kiss that didn’t seem to have a beginning. Nor did it have an end. He pulled her tight and they were hip to hip, belly to belly. Even through the shock of the totally unexpected, she kissed him back. She sunk her fingers into his hair and kissed him with everything she had in her. With every last inch of longing wrapped up in her, saved over the years and packed away where the raw intensity of the emotion couldn’t destroy her.

She fisted his shirt. She ran her hands up and down his back, feeling the muscles tense and bunch.

It was over just as quickly and then they were both panting, staring at each other.

“I’m sorry.” Noah took a step back, leaving a healthy distance between them. “Yeah, I shouldn’t have done that. That’s wrong.”

Wrong?

“It’s okay,” she stammered because she didn’t know what else to say in the moment.

Yes, it was wonderful, please kiss me again, because I think maybe I’ve always loved you?

“It’s just…that was wrong of me. I don’t feel that way about you.”

Oh, God. There went her heart, pierced and sliced into tiny bits.

I don’t feel that way about you.

No, he was right. This was wrong. And if he had regrets then damn it, so did she.

“Me, neither. I don’t feel that way about you.”

“I know.”

The certainty in his voice broke her heart a little. How could he be so sure she wasn’t straight out lying, trying to save her pride?

She chewed on her lower lip. “So, let’s just forget it. Pretend the kiss never happened.”

“But…we’re okay?”

Worry and regret filled those dark puppy dog eyes. Not long ago, she would have understood. But now she knew what it was like to be kissed by Noah and her heart shattered to think it would never happen again.

“We’re okay. You’re probably right, huh? Bad idea.”

“Yeah, I just don’t want to…you know…” He ran a hand through his hair, looking desperately vulnerable, like a man searching for a lifeline.

And what kind of friend would she be not to throw one to him?

“It was just, well, okay, maybe we’re both lonely. And it’s after midnight. I…got um, confused.” She had no idea what she was saying but it sounded good, and he seemed to be receptive.

“Yeah, so did I.”

“And I’ve got a date tomorrow night so that could be awkward.”

Now she’d lied to her best friend, but she’d also kissed him within an inch of his life, so either way she was in brand new territory here.

He quirked a brow. “You have a date? Who is he?”

“Some guy.”

“Some guy? Does ‘some guy’ have a name?”

“Of course he has a name, Noah. He’s some guy I just met.” She crossed her arms. “Weren’t you leaving?”

He scowled. “Yeah. I have an early day tomorrow.”

“Bye.” She closed the door before he could say another word.

Now she was going to have to find herself a date.


Author Bio:

Bestselling author Heatherly Bell was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama but lost her accent by the time she was two. After leaving Alabama, Heatherly lived with her family in Puerto Rico and Maryland before being transplanted kicking and screaming to the California Bay Area. She now loves it here, she swears. Except the traffic.

Over 200,000 copies of Heatherly’s books have been sold, many of them translated into two languages.

Heatherly also writes sweet and wholesome books under the pen name of Maria Michaels. She is represented by Elaine Spencer of The Knight Agency.

Luke’s unwavering loyalty to Lexi and her family gives this sweet romance unexpected integrity …Readers looking for a tender romance that leans more toward the emotional than the physical will find this very satisfying.” ~ Publishers Weekly/Booklife review on Country Gold.

“Heatherly Bell writes romance that will capture your heart.” ~ Marina Adair, New York Times bestselling author.

“What a thoroughly delightful story. I adored it.” ~ Lori Wilde, New York Times bestselling author on Lucky Cowboy.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram


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