MATRONLY DUTIES
by Melissa Kendall
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query howard books. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query howard books. Sort by date Show all posts
Saturday, November 19, 2016
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Catch a Falling Star by Beth K. Vogt | Review & Giveaway
Today and tomorrow I'm turning my blog over to Beth K. Vogt, with a review of "Catch a Falling Star!!"ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from May 15 - June 4, 2013 | Giveaway ends on June 3, 2013 | "Catch a Falling Star" Author Chat Party is on June 4, 2013]
- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 310; Kindle Edition - File Size: 758 KB | Expected Release Date: May 7, 2013 | Publisher: Howard Books | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group/NetGalley"Catch a Falling Star" by Beth K. Vogt
Okay, I apologize it must but the pregnancy brain going on but I can't seem to phrase this novel into my usual Book Summary so here is the Author's Book Description to give you a better understanding of what this book is about...
Author's Book Description : What does a girl do when life doesn’t go according to her plan? At thirty-six, Kendall Haynes has seen some of her dreams come true. She’s a family physician helping kids with severe allergies and asthma achieve more fulfilling lives—a childhood struggle she knows all too well. But are Kendall’s dreams of having it all—a career, a husband, children—nothing more than a childhood fantasy? God says He knows the plans He has for her—why can’t Kendall figure them out and be content with her life?
Griffin Walker prefers flying solo—both as an Air Force pilot and in his personal life. But a wrong choice and health problems pulled him out of the cockpit. His attempts to get out of “flying a desk” are complicated by his parents’ death—making Griffin the reluctant guardian of his sixteen-year-old brother, Ian. How did his life get so off course? Can he get his life back on track…or has there been a divine plan all along?
"Catch a Falling Star" reminds readers that romance isn’t just for twenty-somethings and that sometimes letting go of your “wish I may, wish I might” dreams is the only way to embrace everything God has waiting for you.
My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars!! This inspirational heartwarming novel hooked me from the beginning with Kendall's dreams for her future to the budding romance she falls into! Kendall deals with a lot in this novel from her romantic life getting a boost to her career getting an unexpected hit from the sidelines. Yet she handles everything with such grace that you can't help but root for her, especially when it comes to her relationships with Griffin & Ian. It's all very sweet!
I recommend this novel to anyone who likes contemporary Christian romances!
Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest - Novel: Catch a Falling Star | In Others’ Words: Second (Novel, That Is) | In Others’ Words: Second (Novel, That Is) | In Others’ Words: Fairy Tales | Behind the Book: An imaginary character interviews a real-live author | Behind the Book: Griffin Walker of Catch a Falling Star hijacks my blog | Behind the Book: Ian Walker of Catch a Falling Star Hijacks My Blog | Behind the Book: Evie Shaw of Catch a Falling Star Hijacks My Blog (Sort of) | Behind the Book: Catch a Falling Star Book Dedication Part 1 (Vlog) | Behind the Book: Catch a Falling Star Book Dedication (Vlog) Part 2 | Release Day: Catch a Falling Star | Behind the Book: (Still) Waiting for Someday — Guest Post by Amy Drown
Author's Book Interview(s) :
Book Teaser(s) :
As he tugged on his gloves and pulled the collar of his blue uniform jacket up around his neck, Griffin watched a red Jeep pass him on the highway, then ease over to the shoulder and back up. Offering a quick prayer of thanks that "real Jeeps never leave another Jeep stranded," Griffin stepped back out into the cold night air and moved toward the Good Samaritan.For more information on this book and/or any other books by Beth, then please check out her website.
The door to the Jeep CJ5 opened and a diminutive form bundled in a long coat stepped onto the silver nerf bar and then onto the gravel shoulder. A woman---but still a Jeep person. When Griffin recognized Dr. Kendall Haynes in the glare of the passing headlights, he almost turned around, sprinted back to his Jeep, climbed inside, and locked the door.
"Hi. I'm Kendall. Can I---you!"
The look on the woman's face was so comical---her mouth forming a perfect O, her eyes widening as if Griffin pulled a gun on her---that Griffin burst out laughing.
"Good evening, Dr. Haynes."
"Colonel Walker." ~ within Chapter 5
About the Author :
Beth K. Vogt is a non-fiction author and editor who said she’d never write fiction. She’s the wife of an Air Force physician (now in solo practice) who said she’d never marry a doctor—or anyone in the military. She’s a mom of four who said she’d never have kids. Beth has discovered that God’s best often waits behind the doors marked “Never.” She writes contemporary romance because she believes there’s more to happily ever after than the fairy tales tell us.Beth is also a leader in helping women realize a satisfying life doesn’t require perfection.
With 30 years of active duty as a mom—experiencing everything from positive pregnancy tests to the mother of the groom dance—Beth helps moms:
- Avoid the crippling effects of pursuing perfection
- Increase their ability to say “No” to idealistic expectations and time demands
- Extend more grace and compassion to themselves and their families
Beth is a national speaker and author of "Baby Changes Everything: Embracing and Preparing Motherhood after 35." Her message provides women with a “whole family” perspective to recognize how a late-in-life pregnancy affects other relationships.
If you’re a Mommy-Come-Lately®, Beth will help you love late-in-life motherhood!
An encourager at heart, Beth has more than 20 years experience teaching women at retreats, churches and other events, including the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers International) Convention and the Hearts at Home national and regional conferences. From 2007 through September 2011, she edited "Connections," the leadership magazine for MOPS International. She was a consulting editor for "MomSense magazine" and wrote a bimonthly column for "MomsNEXT," MOPS’ ezine for moms of school-age children.
Beth earned a journalism degree from San Jose State University. Her publishing credits include: "MomSense," "Discipleship Journal," "Virtue," "The Christian Communicator," and Crosswalk.com. She is also a contributor to "Chicken Soup for the Soul: A Tribute to Moms" and "The Mommy Diaries."
Beth met her husband Rob when he knocked her down at a karate studio. They’ve been married for 34 years. They have four children, ranging in ages from 30, 27, 25 and – thanks to a funny thing happening on their way to the empty nest—a 12-year-old. The Vogt Team, which now includes a “daughter-in-love” and two “sons-in-love,” enjoys hiking and camping in Colorado.
Giveaways!! :
One “lucky” winner will receive :
- A $200 Visa Cash Card (Perfect for a weekend stay at a hotel or B&B!)
- A copy of "Catch a Falling Star" and "Wish You Were Here" by Beth Vogt (Swoon-worthy!)
To Enter : Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 3rd. Winner will be announced at the "Catch a Falling Star" Author Chat Party on June 4th. Connect with Beth for an evening of book chat, trivia, laughter, and more! Beth will also share an exclusive look at her next book and give away books and other fun prizes throughout the evening.
Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP TODAY. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 4th!
ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!
Find Beth K. Vogt :
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Kick-Start Your Summer With These 10 FREE Must-Reads… | Spreading the Word & Blog Tour
AHH, SUMMER. IT'S FINALLY HERE. HOT DAYS, TALL GLASSES OF LEMONADE, AND THE PERFECT TIME TO DIVE INTO A GOOD BOOK...FOR FREE!
Kick-Start Your Summer With These 10 FREE Must-Read Contemporary Novels From Some Amazing Authors!
Ready to feed your e-reader?
[The Lust List: Devon Stone Series, Book 1] by Mira Bailee
Author's Book Description :
- Olivia Margot didn’t struggle through college just to serve Hollywood’s elite. But student loans won’t pay themselves, and a gorgeous Stone brother just insisted she cater an event at his family’s mansion.
Devon Stone—sexy, black sheep of Stone Record Label fame—has always been a mischievous tabloid favorite. Now that he’s on The Lust List, it’s that much harder to keep out of trouble. And that’s exactly what he is: Trouble.
Olivia’s always been a good girl. And this bad boy is more risk than she can handle.
The responsible Olivia would keep her head down and do her job. But there’s something about Devon—and the intensifying electricity between them—that makes Olivia completely forget who she is.
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[Fairhope Series, Book 1] by Sarra Cannon
Author's Book Description :
- One night can change everything…
Two years ago, Leigh Anne Davis shocked everyone in tiny Fairhope, Georgia when she broke up with her wealthy boyfriend to attend an Ivy League university a thousand miles away. At school, she finds a happiness and independence she’s never known.
Until one terrifying night takes it all away from her.
With no place else to go, Leigh Anne heads home to reclaim her old life. A life she worked so hard to escape. On the outside, she seems like the same girl everyone has always known. But deep inside, she’s hiding a terrible secret.
That’s when she meets Knox Warner, a troubled newcomer to Fairhope. His eyes have the same haunted look she sees every day in the mirror, and when she’s near him, the rest of the world fades away. But being with Knox would mean disappointing everyone all over again. If she wants to save what’s left of her old life, she has no choice but to say goodbye to him forever.
Only, the trouble with goodbye is that sometimes it’s about courage and sometimes it’s about fear. And sometimes you’re too broken to know the difference until it’s too late.
"The Trouble With Goodbye" is my first New Adult Contemporary Romance, and is a story extremely close to my heart. As a victim of sexual assault, this novel was both difficult to write and very freeing. It’s an emotional journey, and I hope Leigh Anne’s story speaks to you the way it did to me.
**Due to heavy subject matter and sexual content, this book is appropriate for readers ages 17+**
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[Going to the Dogs Series, Book 1] by Zoe Dawson
Author's Book Description :
- Jack has some ‘splainin’ to do!
That’s right! Callie Lassiter’s normally well-behaved Great Dane Jack has run off and done the wild thing with the neighbor’s dog. It must be puppy love! It’s doubly embarrassing since she’s a professional dog trainer. Of course, the neighbor would have to be hot, hot nightclub owner bad boy Owen McKay, just the kind of man Callie is determined to avoid.
Owen’s comfortable with his playboy status and the hype in the media. But the ground moves beneath his feet when he gets an eyeful of the girl next door. The Dog Whisperer never looked this good! How can he convince this wholesome honey that his player days are behind him? Maybe Jill, his Great Dane can help him with this dilemma now that she’s pregnant and Callie’s dog is to blame.
Is this bad boy a bad bet?
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[The University Park Series, Book 1] by C. M. Doporto
Author's Book Description :
- College senior, Lexi Thompson, finds herself in a relationship to be wed to the university’s star baseball pitcher, Collin Norris. Collin’s damn hot, but his lack of spark has Lexi thinking twice before she says ‘I Do’. When she’s forced to tutor bad boy football quarterback, Raven Davenport, she soon discovers all the things she’s missing in her relationship with Collin. Will she succumb to the temptations enticing her, or will Collin be able to convince his sweet, innocent fiancée that his love for her is genuine despite his lack of affection?
Recommended Age: 18+ for language and sexual situations
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[Moore Crossing Series, Book 1] by Laura Howard
Author's Book Description :
- Kate and Noah thought they had the kind of love that could last through anything. Until their world crumbled out from beneath them.
After months of separation, the tragic death of Jack, Kate's twin and Noah's best friend, throws them back together. As they try to heal from the horrific loss, will they be able to overcome old wounds or are they destined to live separately forever?
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
My Previous Mention(s) of Ms. Howard's Books/Characters : Blog Tour - The Forgotten Ones by Laura Howard | Spreading the Word & Giveaway
[Clayton Falls Series, Book 1] by Alyssa Rose Ivy
Author's Book Description :
- When you're lost, sometimes the only place you can go is home.
Broken over the death of her fiancé, Molly leaves law school to return to her childhood home in North Carolina. Expecting to lay low until she can figure out what else to do with her life, she finds herself in the arms of her high school sweetheart, the boy who represents everything from the past she tried to leave behind.
Looking for an escape, she instead finds a way back to the girl she almost forgot existed and a future she never dreamed possible.
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[Friends & Lovers Series, Book 1] by Bethany Lopez
Author's Book Description :
- In a small town, it's hard to recover from being dumped by your high school sweetheart. That's just what Briana has to do after Colin leaves her to follow his dreams. She focuses her energy into her friendships and the pursuit of her own goal of becoming a chef. Just when she finally feels like she's on the right path, he comes back to town.
Colin knew breaking up with Briana before leaving for college was the right thing to do. He was determined to leave small-town life behind forever, and that included his high school girlfriend. But when a sports injury puts him on the sidelines, he's forced to return home. Seeing Briana again brings back a lot of memories, and Colin wonders if he made the right decision. It doesn't take long for him to realize he wants her back, and this time, he wants to make it last.
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
My Previous Review(s) for Ms. Lopez : Indelible
My Previous Mention(s) of Ms. Lopez's Books/Characters : The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2013 | Welcome to Small Business Saturday/Week | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014
[Coldcreek Series, Book 1] by Jennifer Snyder
Author's Book Description :
- Blaire Hayes enjoys a quiet life, spending her days as a CNA at the local nursing home and nights studying for exams. She prefers things to be as uncomplicated as possible — but when her friends drag her to a party and she bumps into her high school crush, the path of Blaire’s life veers in an entirely different direction than what she had planned for herself.
Jason Bryant created a nice life away from his hometown, putting distance between himself and the suffocating sadness of his father’s death. But when he finds out his grandfather’s health is deteriorating, he decides he must return home. Partying was not on his agenda while in town, but it’s how he bumps into Blaire Hayes—the girl he’d always thought of in high school as an unobtainable pass.
Together the two learn there are moments in life that hold within them all the power to break you…
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
My Previous Mention(s) of Ms. Snyder's Books/Characters : Author Meet & Greet @ Clark Public Library
[Blue Phoenix Series, Book 1] by Lisa Swallow
Author's Book Description :
- Sky changed her life for a man once, and she has no intention of doing it again – even if he is a six foot, tattooed rock god who makes a mean bacon sandwich.
Sky Davis is fed up of boyfriend Grant taking her for granted and when she comes home to find him wearing a girl, Sky suspects the relationship is over. She takes an unscheduled holiday and leaves the life (and guy) she hates behind.
Rock star Dylan Morgan is struggling with fame and infamy, sick of his life being controlled by other people. Dylan cuts his hair and walks away from his role as lead singer of Blue Phoenix, leaving chaos and speculation behind.
Outside the English seaside town of Broadbeach their cars and worlds collide.
Sky decides Dylan is an arrogant guy with too many tattoos, and Dylan is amused by the smart-mouthed girl with no idea who he is. Dylan and Sky soon discover they’ve travelled to Broadbeach for the same reason – to escape from reality back to a place with happy childhood memories.
Losing themselves in a world where they know nothing about each other, Sky and Dylan begin a summer romance that soon heats up their rainy English summer.
Fantasies can’t last forever and when reality crashes the party, Sky isn’t sure she wants to be more than his ‘summer Sky’ but Dylan doesn’t want to let her go.
Returning to the real world and public scrutiny isn’t their only problem. Blue Phoenix bass player, Jem Jones, has a reason for wanting Sky out of Dylan’s life, and is determined to come between them. Some things won’t stay hidden, even when they’re paid to ‘go away’.
Summer Sky is a contemporary romance where occasionally more than the bacon sizzles. This is the first in the new ‘Blue Phoenix’ series of rock star romances.
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
[Paper Heart Series, Book 1] by Magan Vernon
Author's Book Description :
- Getting into my top choice sorority? Done.
Dating one of the hottest guys in the biggest fraternity? Done.
Failing out of College? Oops...
When Libby Gentry's parents receive the letter that she's failed out of school, Libby is forced to pack her Prada bag and head to work for her great aunt in rural Louisiana.
Nothing about tiny Elsbury, Louisiana entices her until she locks eyes with the southern charmer, Blaine Crabtree.
Libby is used to getting what she wants and Blaine is no exception, but as the two grow closer, bigger problems arise.
Libby doesn't know how much more pain her already paper-thin heart can take and when new opportunities in Chicago pop up she is presented with a difficult situation: wait for her redneck Romeo, or move on.
This book is available to order on :
** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
Be sure to spread the word about these Must-Read #FREE Novels!
Wednesday, October 28, 2020
2019 100+ Reading Challenge
Check out my previous challenges :
So ... I had a computer malfunction and lost ALL of my ORIGINAL 2019 book reviews in this book list. When it first happened I felt terrible but I have plans to reread a majority of these novels again (probably) and because of this so you might see those novels mentioned multiple times on this blog or within this website/blog's book index. CLICK HERE to find out more about this catastrophe.
Alrighty ... here's my personal challenge .. or more of a record of how many books I have read in 2019. Here we go:
* If you would like to know what I think about the books I didn't share my ratings or reviews with you about, than leave a comment about which one you want info on and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
Jessica's When & Where am I Wednesdays :
If you can't see/watch the above video series then click here to watch it.
Jessica's Regular & Reread Book Reviews :
If you can't see/watch the above video series then click here to watch it.
If you want to assist Jess (owner of this blog), here's what you can do :
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So ... I had a computer malfunction and lost ALL of my ORIGINAL 2019 book reviews in this book list. When it first happened I felt terrible but I have plans to reread a majority of these novels again (probably) and because of this so you might see those novels mentioned multiple times on this blog or within this website/blog's book index. CLICK HERE to find out more about this catastrophe.
Alrighty ... here's my personal challenge .. or more of a record of how many books I have read in 2019. Here we go:
- -- January 2019 --
- "His Secret Child" [Rescue River Series, Book 2] by Lee Tobin McClain
- "Claiming Mia" [Dot Com Wolves Series, Book 1] by Alisa Woods
- "The Governess Game" [Girl Meets Duke Series, Book 2] by Tessa Dare
- "Vampire King: Cinderella" [Adult Fairy Tales Series, Book 1] by Joanna Mazurkiewicz
- "An Improper Encounter" [The Macalisters Series, Book 3] by Erica Taylor
- "The Body Checker" [Players on Ice Series, Book 3] by Cathryn Fox
- "A Taste of Shifter Geekdom" [Vanguard Elite Series, Book 2] by Annie Nicholas
- "The Bear's Secret Surrogate" [Bears With Money Series, Book 2] by Amy Star
- "Bella and the Beast" [Cinderella Sisterhood Series, Book 4] by Olivia Drake
- "Accidental Family" [Bachelors of Aspen Valley Series, Book 2] by Lisa Bingham -- February 2019 --
- "Howl Sassy" [Animal in Me Series, Book 4] by Tamara Hoffa
- "I Dream of Dragons" [Boston Dragons Series, Book 1] by Ashlyn Chase
- "Dragons' Jewel" [Nightflame Dragons Series, Book 1] by Milly Taiden
- "How to Wed a Warrior" [Broadswords and Ballrooms Series, Book 2] by Christy English -- March 2019 --
- "Winter's Gift" [Bistro La Bohème Series, Book 1] by Alix Nichols
- "Second Chance Hearts" [Sand Hill Series, Book 2] by Billi Tiner
- "Dragon Warrior" [Dragon Clan Series, Book 2] by Diana Green
- "Surprise Delivery" by R. R. Banks
- "The CEO Daddy Next Door" by Karen Booth
- "Governess Gone Rogue" [Dear Lady Truelove Series, Book 3] by Laura Lee Guhrke -- April 2019 --
- "Crossing The Line" [Atlanta Edge Series, Book 1] by Carla Swafford
- "Demon Princess" [Demon Kingdom Fairy Tales Series, Book 1] by Kassandra Lynn
- "Demon King" [Demon Kingdom Fairy Tales Series, Book 2] by Kassandra Lynn
- "Demon Queen" [Demon Kingdom Fairy Tales Series, Book 3] by Kassandra Lynn
- "The Untamed Earl" [Playful Brides Series, Book 5] by Valerie Bowman
- "On the Accidental Wings of Dragons" [The Dragons of Eternity Series, Book 1] by Julie Wetzel
- "The Baby Project" [Kingston Family Series, Book 3] by Miranda Liasson
- "Rock Me" [Ross Siblings Series, Book 2] by Cherrie Lynn
- "My Sister’s Husband" [Forbidden Fun Series, Book 3] by Cassandra Dee
- "How to Wrangle a Cowboy" [Cowboys of Decker Ranch Series, Book 3] by Joanne Kennedy
- "The Governess and Mr. Granville" [The Parson's Daughters Series, Book 2] by Abby Gaines
- "Coach Daddy" [Dark Daddies Series, Book 3] by B. B. Hamel
- "Bunny Misfit" [The Misfits Series, Book 3] by Eve Langlais
- "Embrace the Night" [The Blood Rose Series, Book 5] by Caris Roane
- "A Cougar Among Wolves" [Black Hills Wolves Series, Book 45] by Kali Willows
- "You're Lion to Me" [Paranormal Dating Agency Series, Book 20] by Milly Taiden
- "One Night of Surrender" [Wicked Dukes Club Series, Book 2] by Darcy Burke -- May 2019 --
- "Cinderella and the Billionaire" by Marion Lennox
- "Hot Lap" [Arkadia Fast Series, Book 2] by Leslie Scott
- "The Greek's Pregnant Cinderella" [Cinderella Seductions Series, Book 2] by Michelle Smart
- "The Nanny's Secret Baby" [Redemption Ranch Series, Book 4] by Lee Tobin McClain
- "A Duke Most Desirable" by Lucinda Nelson
- "Cold Heart, Warm Cowboy" [Cold River Ranch Series, Book 2] by Caitlin Crews
- "Mending the Duke" [Smithfield Market Regency Romance Series, Book 3] by Rose Pearson
- "Four Daddies’ Secret Twins" by Daniella Wright
- "Adorkable" by Cookie O'Gorman
- "Cowboy in Wolf's Clothing" [Seven Range Shifters Series, Book 2] by Kait Ballenger
- "Fearless Desires" [Immortal Love Series, Book 1] by Stacey Espino
- "One Fine Duke" [School for Dukes Series, Book 3] by Lenora Bell
- "Full Measures" [Flight & Glory Series, Book 1] by Rebecca Yarros -- June 2019 --
- "Catnip" [Age of Night Series, Book 3] by May Sage
- "The Duke Is But a Dream" [Debutante Diaries Series, Book 2] by Anna Bennett
- "Trinity" [de La Vega Cats Series, Book 1] by Lauren Dane
- "Highland Captive" [The Sons of Gregor MacLeod Series, Book 4] by Alyson McLayne
- "Shelter from the Storm" [North Country Amish Series, Book 2] by Patricia Davids
- "Untamed Delights" [The Phoenix Pack Series, Book 8] by Suzanne Wright
- "Stolen Desire" [Planet of Desire Series, Book 3] by Robin Lovett
- "Bear's Fake Marriage" [Bear Lake Protectors Series, Book 2] by Maia Starr
- "The Maid's Spanish Secret" [The Montero Baby Scandals Series, Book 2] by Dani Collins
- "The (Secret) Baby" [Truth & Secret Series, Book 2] by Leddy Harper
- "Minding the Amish Baby" [Amish Country Courtships Series, Book 3] by Carrie Lighte
- "From Governess to Countess" [Matches Made in Scandal Series, Book 1] by Marguerite Kaye -- July 2019 --
- "Mistaken Identity" [Regency House Party: Somerstone Series, Book 3] by Mindy Burbidge Strunk
- "His Suitable Amish Wife" [Women of Lancaster County Series, Book 5] by Rebecca Kertz
- "Cramming Her Candy Bag" by Farrah Paige
- "The Man with the Lion Tattoo" by Aurora Diamond
- "Eye of the Eagle" [Hotel LaBelle Series, Book 3] by Sharon Buchbinder
- "The Virtuoso" [Windham Series, Book 3] & [Duke's Obsession Series, Book 3] by Grace Burrowes
- "Every Angelic Moment" [Hyena Heat Series, Book 7] by R. E. Butler
- "Hunted by the Dragon Duke" [Council Of Black Dragons Series, Book 2] by Mina Carter
- "Full Contact" by Cassie Cole -- August 2019 --
- "Nathan's Heart" [Brotherhood of Bandits Series, Book 1] by Minx Malone
- "The Pretend Princess: A Lindzee's Royal Secrets Romance" [The Book Club Series, Book 15] by Lindzee Armstrong
- "One Bride for the Football Team" by Jess Bentley
- "Hanna And The Hot Hockey Gods" by Dizzy Hooper
- "Rescued by the Perfect Cowboy" [The Mountain Monroes Series, Book 3] by Melinda Curtis
- "His Christmas Family/A Merry Wyoming Christmas" by Brenda Minton & Jill Kemerer
- "Going Deep" [Fire & Ice Romance Series, Book 1] by Kylie Parker
- "Guarding the Countess" [The Scandal Sheet Series, Book 5] by Jess Michaels
- "Carter" [Bachelors and Babies Series, Book 3] by Cynthia Woolf
- "The Bad Twin" by Avery Scott
- "Bear Naked Truth" [Southern Shifters Series, Book 7] by Eliza Gayle
- "Teaching His Ward" by Noël Cades
- "Saving Miss Grace" [Mayfair Menage Series, Book 4] by Viola Morne
- "The Brick Wall" [Redtails Hockey Series, Book 1] by Stephanie Julian
- "Bad Teacher" [Unprofessional Bad Boys Series, Book 1] by Clarissa Wild
- "My Dragon Masters" [Sanctuary, Texas Series, Book 2] by Krystal Shannan
- "Breaking the Habit" [Breaking Series, Book 4] by Ember Leigh
- "The Amish Widower's Twins" [Amish Spinster Club Series, Book 4] by Jo Ann Brown -- September 2019 --
- "Ice Hard" [New York Nighthawks Series, Book 2] by Tracy Goodwin
- "The Merman's Kiss" [Mates for Monsters Series, Book 1] by Tamsin Ley
- "Triple Sext" [Accidental Stepbrother Series, Book 4] by Stephanie Brother
- "Her College Roommates" by Veronica Wade
- "One Crazy Wolf" [Southern Shifters Series, Book 9] by Eliza Gayle
- "Omega's Choice" [Black Ridge Wolf Pack Series, Book 1] by Lilli Carlisle
- "Perfect Chemistry" [Kinky Chronicles Series, Book 1] by Jodi Redford
- "This Earl of Mine" [Bow Street Bachelors Series, Book 1] by Kate Bateman
- "Triplet Time" [Triplets Series, Book 1] by Stephanie Brother
- "Hometown Healing" by Jennifer Slattery
- "Ian" [Say Yes Series, Book 1] by Amelia Mae
- "The Accidental Daddy" by Meredith Webber
- "Forever My Duke" [Unlikely Duchesses Series, Book 2] by Olivia Drake -- October 2019 --
- "The Earl's Christmas Pearl" [Duke's Daughters Series, Book 4.5] by Megan Frampton
- "Seven Soulmates" [Haremworld Series, Book 4] by Kelli Callahan
- "Courting the Countess" [Courting Series, Book 1] by Donna Hatch
- "A Foolish Wager" [The Spinsters Guild Series, Book 4] by Rose Pearson
- "The Beast of Beswick" [Everleigh Sisters Series, Book 1] by Amalie Howard
- "The Bookworm Crush" by Lisa Brown Roberts
- "Her Rock Star Friends" by Amanda Horton
- "The More the Merrier" by Linda Byler
- "The Amish Marriage Bargain" by Marie E. Bast
- "Much Ado about a Widow" [The Widows' Club Series, Book 4] by Jenna Jaxon -- November 2019 --
- "Jessie's Harem" by Mandy Rosko
- "Our Little Secrets" [Montana Romance Series, Book 1] by Merry Farmer
- "Backfired Magic" [Mates & Magic Series, Book 3] by Jade Alters
- "Alaskan Holiday" by Debbie Macomber -- December 2019 --
- "My True Love Gave to Me" [The Marvelous Munroes Series, Book 1] by Regina Scott
- "It's A Vampire Christmas" [Vampire Lords Series, Book 1] by Lia Davis
- "Quadruple Sext" [Accidental Stepbrother Series, Book 5] by Stephanie Brother
- "The Red Hot Earl" [Love is All Around Series, Book 1] by Darcy Burke
- "A Cougar’s Fantasy" [Master of the Cats Series, Book 7] by Trinity Blacio
- "Courting the Alphas" by River Ramsey
- "Dragon's Nanny" [West Coast Water Dragons Series, Book 1] by Kayla Wolf
- "The Duke and I" [Saints and Sinners Series, Book 1] by Heather Boyd
- "Mating Their Omega" [Waxing Crescent Series, Book 4] by Jasmine Mills
- "Moving In" by Chloe Kincaid
- "The Earl's Secret Treasure" by Nicole Renee
* If you would like to know what I think about the books I didn't share my ratings or reviews with you about, than leave a comment about which one you want info on and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
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Wednesday, January 1, 2014
Blog Tour - The Forgotten Ones by Laura Howard | Spreading the Word & Giveaway
Title : "The Forgotten Ones"Author : Laura Howard
Genre : New Adult Fantasy
Series : The Danaan Trilogy #1
Published : April 28, 2013
Allison O'Malley's plan is to go to grad school so she can get a good job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She has carefully closed herself off from everything else, including a relationship with Ethan, who she's been in love with for as long as she can remember.
What is definitely not part of the plan is the return of her long-lost father, who claims he can bring Allison's mother back from the dark place her mind has gone. Allison doesn't trust her father, so why would she believe his stories about a long forgotten Irish people, the Tuatha de Danaan? But truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother's sanity.
Amazon | B&N
Laura Howard lives in New Hampshire with her husband and four children. Her obsession with books began at the age of 6 when she got her first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other girly novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. Books took a backseat to diapers when she had her first child. It wasn’t until the release of a little novel called Twilight, 8 years later, that she rediscovered her love of fiction. Soon after, her own characters began to make themselves known. The Forgotten Ones is her first published novel.
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Sunday, December 18, 2011
Guest Post :: 3rd Annual Pearl Girls™ 12 Pearls of Christmas by Deborah Raney
Enjoy these Christmas "Pearls of Wisdom" from some of today's most beloved writer's (Tricia Goyer, Suzanne Woods Fisher, Shellie Rushing Tomlinson, Sibella Giorello and more)! Please follow the series through Christmas day as each contributor shares heartfelt stories of how God has touched a life during this most wonderful time of the year.AND just for fun ... there's also a giveaway! Fill out this simple {form} and enter for a chance to win a beautiful pearl necklace and earring set ($450 value). Contest runs 12/14 - 12/25 and the winner will on 1/1. Contest is only open to US and Canadian residents. You may enter once per day.
If you are unfamiliar with Pearl Girls™, please visit www.pearlgirls.info and see what we're all about. In short, we exist to support the work of charities that help women and children in the US and around the globe. Consider purchasing a copy of Pearl Girls: Encountering Grit, Experiencing Grace or one of the Pearl Girls products (all GREAT gifts!) to help support Pearl Girls.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are. **
"The Snowflake Party" by Deborah Raney
The first snow of winter hasn’t fallen yet, but in our kitchen tonight we’re doing a pretty good imitation. The whole family is circled around the huge old oak table. The snip, snip, snip of scissors is background music as tiny scraps of white paper float down, making our floor look like a giant brownie sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Tonight has turned out to be the night for our annual Snowflake Party, a tradition that began when our children were toddlers. There has never been a date blocked out in red on our calendar, but one day we wake up and the brisk autumn air has turned bitter cold. Naked tree branches trace their stark calligraphy on a dull grey sky and we need a taste of the joyful promises of Christmas and snow. It’s the perfect time for a party.
On such a day, one of the kids will fly in the back door, fresh home from school, and declare “Hey, Mom! Tonight would be a good night for the Snowflake Party!” First we round up every pair of scissors in the house. This is one time when sharing is not a virtue. While the kids search for scissors, I cut white paper into squares and fold them caddy-corner multiple times. The resulting triangles are artfully arranged in a basket, awaiting the beginning of the party.
Later, while the supper dishes dry on the counter, I recruit a volunteer to help me stir up a big pot of hot cocoa. For the next hour it will warm on the back burner, tantalizing us with its aroma.
Now the fun begins with careful cutting and snipping, shaping plain white paper into intricate works of art. Each snowflake we create seems as unique and spectacular as the genuine variety created by God himself. As each masterpiece is unfolded, collective oohs and aahs go up.
When the last dregs of our creative juices are drained, Dad oversees the vacuum patrol while I pour cocoa into generous mugs. We spread our handiwork on the floor around us and sit, quietly admiring our work while we dunk marshmallows and sip rich chocolate.
With empty mugs piled up in the sink, it’s time for the judging to begin. There will be awards for ‘prettiest’, ‘most unusual’, and as many other categories as we need for everyone to be a winner. Dad is the judge because he studied art in college. He also usually wins one of the top prizes––because he studied art in college.
Snowflakes deemed runners-up might be pasted in scrapbooks or hung on the refrigerator. A few even “melt” into the trash that very night. But the winners are taped proudly to the picture windows in the living room for passersby to enjoy while they long for the day when genuine snowflakes will color the world clean and white.
Our oldest daughter went away to college last September. She called just after Thanksgiving to tell me that her dorm window was covered with snowflakes. No, not the real thing, but the ones she remembers from her childhood––paper ones that she spent an entire evening cutting and snipping while sipping hot cocoa.
That’s the neat thing about traditions: They go with us no matter how far from home we travel.
DEBORAH RANEY's first novel, A Vow to Cherish, inspired the World Wide Pictures film of the same title. Her books have since won the RITA Award, ACFW Carol Award, HOLT Medallion, National Readers' Choice Award, Silver Angel, and have twice been Christy Award finalists. After All, third in her Hanover Falls Novels series will release next spring from Howard/Simon & Schuster. Deb and her husband, Ken Raney, enjoy small-town life in Kansas. Their four children are grown now and having snowflake parties with their own children––and they all live much too far away. Visit Deb on the web at www.deborahraney.com.
12 Pearls of Christmas - Guest Posts : Margaret McSweeney | Suzanne Woods Fisher | Sibella Giorello | Sandy Ralya | Elizabeth Musser | Deborah Raney | Shellie Tomlinson | Tricia Goyer | Susan May Warren | Tracey Eyster | Debora M. Coty | Robin Dance | Rachel Hauck
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Tuesday, August 2, 2016
Entangled Indulgence High Striker Booth at Entangled Publishing's Summer Carnival | Blog Tour, Guest Post, Spreading the Word & GC Giveaway
Welcome to the Indulgence High Striker Booth! Indulgence is all about rich and powerful alpha heroes, so who better to conquer the high striker than our amazing Indulgence authors?! Sherilee Gray, Carmen Falcone, Miranda Liasson, Alexia Adams, Robin Covington, and Naima Simone each wrote an original scene featuring new or existing characters and the high striker at a summer carnival. We hope you enjoy them, and don’t forget to enter the giveaway below! [Blog Tour will run from August 2 – 14, 2016 & Giveaway will run until August 15, 2016]
“Earth to Sarah?”Sarah tore her eyes away from the nauseating sight of her ex all but eating his new girlfriend’s face off, and turned back to Kate, who was waving the mallet handle in front of her face.
“It’s your turn.”
“Why are we doing this again?”
“To release some of that psychotic rage boiling inside you.”
“I’m fine.” Sarah looked back at the spectacle on the other side of the fairground. Yep, David was still kissing that evil cow he’d cheated with, the same girl who had bullied and tormented her mercilessly in high school. Okay, so maybe there was a little rage.
She grabbed the mallet out of her friends hand and walked up to the High Striker, imagining David’s face staring up at her. Oh yeah, she was going to smash that smarmy, lying, cheating face. Lifting the mallet over her head, she gritted her teeth, and with a growl, smashed it down with every bit of her strength. The mallet wasn’t that heavy, and when it bounced back, it sort of just… slipped from her fingers, sailing high over her shoulder.
Spinning around, she watched in horror as it headed straight for a group of people gathered by the hotdog stand. She opened her mouth to call a warning…
A hand shot out of nowhere, snatching the mallet out of the air.
Sarah sagged in relief as her gaze travelled to the owner of that hand—to the suit clad, extremely broad, insanely tall body it was attached to—then higher.
Holy Mary mother of God.
He was gorgeous. She swallowed hard, frozen in place when dark-as-night eyes locked on hers. Then he started walking, no, prowling toward her.
Stopping in front of her, he held out the mallet. “Yours I believe?”
She nodded like a bobble head, unable to take her eyes off him, or make her freaking mouth work. The man wasn’t just good looking, he was beautiful, but in an uber manly, Jason Momoa—if Jason Momoa had short hair and shaved—kind of way.
His mouth curled up, eyes traveling over her face, lingering on her lips. He tilted his head to the side, to where her ex-boyfriend had been standing a short time ago. “He didn’t deserve you.”
“I-I know.” Words!
He grinned. “How about you and I give him a taste of his own medicine?”
“Oh, so close.” Violet Harrison made the appropriate aaw shucks noises as the guy in a black leather jacket, white T-shirt, dark blue, cuffed jeans, and Danny Zuko gelled pompadour handed her a wooden-handled mallet. “For two dollars, you can have three more tries.”“Danny” glanced up at the High Striker with its blinking bulbs and bell sitting at the top of the sixteen foot tower. The bell he hadn’t managed to ring with six swings of the mallet. Much to the chagrin of the “Sandy” that hung by his side, who eyed the rack of stuffed animals beside Vi with avarice, her teased blonde hair practically quivering in irritation.
“No. I’ll pass.”
“Next time then.” Vi smiled. “If you change your mind, you know where to find us.”
He nodded, wrapped his arm around his girlfriend and strode off. Probably to try his luck—and prove his strength and manhood—at the ducks shooting gallery. Turning, she quickly deposited the four dollars in the chained, metal cash box.
Sue her, but she loved this time of year. Every June, the Andreas Corporation, the company she created marketing campaigns for, hosted its annual summer carnival fundraiser. Each year the theme changed; this time it was Grease. Which, Vi supposed, was an improvement over last summer’s Circus Freaks theme. The fairgrounds had been full of bearded ladies, conjoined twins, and half men-half beasts. The screams of terrified younger children still assaulted her ears. She grinned, twisting the lock on the cash box. Epic fail. Funny as hell, though.
“Hello, Violet.”
Vi froze, one hand stuffed into the black apron around her waist that contained carnival tickets. Silently, she bit off a curse. She didn’t need to turn around to identify who stood behind her. And it wasn’t because he was the only person, besides her mother, who insisted on calling her by her full name. No, even if he’d called her “Vi” like everyone else, his voice would’ve been a dead giveaway.
That dark, honeyed, I-can-corrupt-you-and-make-you-like-it voice. That voice was gluttony, greed, and lust given syllables and sound. Satan assuredly possessed that silken, tempter’s voice.
Which was apropos given Leo Andreas was the devil incarnate.
Slowly, she turned around. And met the golden, hazel eyes that reminded her of the animal that shared his name. That lion’s stare studied her from the top of her curly, auburn beehive, down her throat and double strand of pearls, over her white shirt, grey jacket and straight A-line skirt, and lower to the sturdy black pumps.
“Nice outfit.” He arched a dark blond eyebrow, and she fought the urge to find out if the damn thing was detachable. But ripping off the facial hair of one’s employer was, at best, frowned upon. At worse, cause to be fired. Or have criminal charges filed against her.
But as her best friend’s older brother, Leo—with his hated eyebrow arch—had been tormenting her for years. Surely a jury of her peers would understand and sympathize with her.
“What?” She shrugged. “Everyone can’t be Frenchy or Rizzo or bad girl Sandy. Besides, there wouldn’t have been a Rydell High without Principal McGee.”
Deliberately, she treated him to the same visual inspection. Loose, golden waves that framed his stark cheekbones, almost too lush mouth, and hard, uncompromising jaw. A white, short-sleeved, V-neck shirt and black pants clothed a wide set of shoulders, solid chest, lean waist, and long, muscled legs. A dull, insistent, inconvenient pulse of heat throbbed low in her belly. Just once it would be nice if she could look at him without her heart stuttering or that damn lust playing Twister with her insides.
Just once it would be nice if she could be as immune to him as he obviously was to her.
“So what’re you doing over here? Lost?” With exaggerated movements, she glanced from side to side and around him. “I don’t see one of your usual brainiac supermodels hanging around, so you can’t be here to flex and test your strength.”
He stepped forward. Then closer. And closer still. Until mere inches of air separated their chests and thighs. “How much?” he murmured, leaning over and effortlessly plucking the mallet off the stand.
“Three swings for two dollars.” Move back, damn it, her mind screamed. But shock and the intoxicating, woodsy scent of his aftershave glued her feet to the ground. “One hit gets you a prize.”
“Is that all?”
She snorted, thankful she could still sound unaffected when she was anything but…unaffected. “You have to do it first, sport. Men are always bragging about how they can ring the bell. Any bell for that matter. Yawn.”
That lion’s gaze dropped to her mouth. She sucked in a breath, that pulse of heat between her legs flickering into a dancing flame.
“This mouth is trouble. I’ve told you that often enough over the years,” he said, his low, sin-and-sex voice deepening. His thumb brushed across her bottom lip in a firm caress that had her fighting not to nip his finger. Not to finally have a taste of his skin on her tongue. “I’ve also imagined doing a lot of things to teach it a lesson.”
What the…
She blinked. A backdraft of lust swirled through her with the power of a windstorm, blowing away all conscious thought except for two words: Teach. Me.
“So that’s my prize when I win your game.” When, she noted. Not if. His hand dropped from her face, but his gaze lifted to hers, trapping her. Refusing to release her. “A lesson for every strike I make. Do you agree?”
Do I agree? Do I look crazy?
Hell no.
“Yes.”
“A carnival party. Is this a joke?” Henri Fortier hissed out. Even if he had screamed, he doubted anyone would hear him. Sounds from machinery grinding and spinning blended with guests laughing and yelling. And the smell of popcorn and hot dogs assaulted his senses. Henri blinked at the flashy colors. Earlier that day, he’d been on his yacht in the French Riviera. Now he marched into the spacious gardens of the Californian mansion he once coveted. Well, still coveted. The one the she-devil Olivia Greystone didn’t want to sell, but would have to if her mountains of debt were anything to go by.
Merde. When he’d told her father on his deathbed he’d watch over Olivia, he had been a sentimental fool—two adjectives none of his close friends would use to describe him.
He passed the cotton candy stand, scanning the area. It must have cost a fortune to bring the jugglers who kept a small crowd hypnotized. People lined up to take a turn on the small Ferris Wheel. He’d seen Vegas Casinos less overwhelming. He kept skimming the area until his gaze found her.
Olivia.
He swallowed. Hard. His entire body halted, even his heart skipped a beat or two.
Smooth waves of blonde hair fell down her strapless red dress. She talked to someone, and he admired her curvy figure and kissable ass for one sinful second. Curling and uncurling his fingers, he sucked in a breath and erased the distance between them.
She laughed. He’d always hated how good her infectious chuckle made him feel. Then she held a glittery hammer and pounded it down the base. The red arrow shot on the sale, but it didn’t get close to the top. Olivia’s life was in shambles and she chose to play higher strike? Was she crazier than he imagined?
“Olivia,” he called her. “I’m glad you find this funny.”
She turned to him with a close-lipped smile. Her eyes still held the azure spark he remembered. “Henri.” She gave the hammer to the attendant, and smoothed her hands over her dress.
“You don’t seem surprised to see me,” he said. When was the last time he’d dealt with her in person? One, two years?
“No, I’m not.”
Henri nodded. Someone else grabbed the hammer and slammed the base, bringing a small group of friends into a frenzied cheer. He didn’t move, his eyes on hers, his spine locked into place. “What’s your angle this time, Olivia? Besides throwing this ridiculous party and having Jessica email me?” Besides wasting away the remaining dollars your father left. Mon Dieu I did a terrible job watching her like he asked. Instead, I avoided her. And let her destroy her fortune.
“I have a proposition for you.”
“What makes you think I’ll agree?”
She licked her lips. “Wanna bet?
Jessa raised the hammer high above her head. Other carnival goers laughed and screamed their excitement, oblivious to the fact that her life had become collateral damage.She slammed the mallet on the plate. Thanks for destroying everything, Dad. The ringer on the High Striker game didn’t even go halfway up the scale.
“Sorry, miss,” the carnie said. “For two dollars more I’ll give you another shot.”
“Please aunty, I know I can hit it,” Tyson, her six-year-old nephew, pipped up before she could answer. “I was so close before.”
Jessa shoved her hand into her pocket, not sure she had another two dollars.
“Allow me,” a deep masculine voice said from behind her. Two words, spoken in an accent she couldn’t identify, and her ovaries went into hyper drive. Just what she needed on the day her life fell apart, to be attracted to some nut job at the fair. He reached around her and handed the game’s attendant a bill that sure as hell looked more like a hundred than a two.
She swiveled around but even with her high heels she had to look up, way up, into the face of their benefactor. His turquoise eyes returned her gaze with an intensity that made her want to take a step back. Except Jessa Carmichael never backed down from a challenge.
And what a challenge. In addition to his incredible eyes, his square jaw was covered in light stubble matching his jet-black hair. But his lips were the highlight of his face. They were currently quirked up in a sardonic smile but she was pretty sure there was a better use for them—like trailing kisses from her ear down her neck and into the valley between her breasts.
Sucking in a lungful of air to quell the rising heat, she was about to thank him when his gaze dropped to her chest. The lips she’d admired a second ago parted as if he were about to take up the invitation her eyes had undoubtedly broadcast.
“Thanks, mister,” Tyson said as he pulled the hammer from Jessa’s hands. Kids, right, probably not the best time to be mesmerized by a pair of lips and amazing eyes, not to mention a chest broad enough to hold a place setting for two that included a salad fork and butter knife.
“I…” Jessa began but Mr. Sexy Lips put his hand on her arm. Desire shot from where he touched her to pool between her thighs.
Get a grip, girl, he’s probably a Fed here to interrogate you. But no government worker she’d ever met wore an Ermenegildo Zegna shirt and sported a watch that cost more than a family car.
Tyson swung the hammer and the ringer shot up and struck the bell, setting off a winner’s alarm. Her nephew danced, whopped with joy, and then launched himself at her. Not to be left out of the celebration, his twin sister Emily hugged her as well. God, she’d do anything to protect these two from the shit storm about to ravage her family.
While Tyson chose his prize with Emily’s assistance, Jessa turned to the mystery man who had paid for the extra game to thank him. His gaze caressed her face and she forgot how to use her tongue.
“Aunty Jessa, look what I got for Mummy. Now she won’t be sad.” Tyson showed her a giant panda bear, almost as big as he was. It wasn’t likely that a stuffed toy would make up for Tyson’s father and grandfather being arrested and all the family’s assets frozen pending an investigation by the SEC.
“That’s great, sweetie. Why don’t we take it to her right now?” Jessa’s feet were killing her, she was out of money, and the man standing two feet away made her want to run—or throw herself in his arms—she wasn’t sure which.
Tyson seemed torn between wanting to stay longer at the carnival and going home to cheer up his mother. While he wrestled with the impossible decision, Jessa sneaked a peek at the tower of masculinity who stood with his arms across his chest. Strong arms, his muscles bulging under the shirt he wore, the sleeves of which he’d rolled up to reveal forearms dusted with dark hair. Against her will, her eyes checked for a ring on his left hand. Bare. At least she hadn’t been lusting after a married man.
“Thank you for paying…and whatever else you did…” The game hadn’t suddenly become easier to play by accident.
He uncrossed his arms, lifted her hand and kissed her knuckles. Who did that these days? Was she hallucinating from all the recent stress? No, the touch of his lips on her skin, the way his eyes caressed her fractured soul, were definitely real. And thrilling.
“You can thank me properly later,” he said. His voice vibrated against her skin, sending tingles up her arm, along her side, eventually rippling the pool of desire building with each second he stood close.
“Later? I don’t even know your name.”
“Milan Rakitić. But as of next week, you may call me ‘husband’ or ‘my love’, either works for me.”
Before she could respond, he turned and strode away.
“Hey big guy. You wanna try to ring my bell for charity?”Bear Holt paused, looking over his shoulder when the hot girl manning the High Striker game pointed her finger at him and crooked in the universal sign for “get your ass over here”. She couldn’t mean him. All week his MC club had been in this little town just west of nowhere Oklahoma and no one had given them the time of day.
They’d given them a wide berth but that was whole different story.
But right now, this little slip of girl dressed in the latest style from some catalog that catered to the “country club and G&T” crowd was looking right at him with a smile that was…wicked. Damn. He resisted the urge to reach down and adjust his dick, a move that would get the steely-eyed matrons manning the “guess my age” booth over here with shotguns and pitchforks.
“What’s the matter? You don’t think you can do it?” the young woman asked, her eyes traveling up and down his six foot five-inch frame. She knew he could do it, he was built like a tank. She was…flirting with him.
Never a big enough idiot to pass up an invitation when he saw it, Bear eased away from his friends and through the crowd to stand in front of her.
“Do I look like I can’t ring your bell?” He teased, liking the way her skin flushed a bit at his words. What he loved was the little catch in her breathing when he smiled down at her.
Damn. She was so pretty. Short and curvy with dark brown hair, green eyes and a few, delicious freckles scattered across her nose. He wanted to lean down and kiss her and see if she tasted as sweet as she looked.
“I know you can,” she laughed, running her tongue along her bottom lip. “I thought so when I saw you at the diner the other night.”
“Huh?” He took a step back, as if the action would clear up his confusion.
“In the diner. With your friends.” She cocked her head at him, squinting as she tried to think up something to trigger his memory. “I was wearing my scrubs from work.”
Oh yeah. He remembered her. He’d taken one look at her across the small restaurant and been unable to stop staring. His friends had given him all kinds of shit for it but he didn’t care. Not when she’d looked back. An ill-timed phone call and she’d been gone when he returned. He’d been left with nothing but a cup of lukewarm coffee and disappointment.
“You left without saying goodbye,” he said.
“I said hello now,” she answered.
“Yes. You did.” He looked up the tall game, gauging just how far up the bell was and how hard he’d have to hit it. He could do it. No problem. Bear returned his gaze to his little nurse. “You wanna tell me your name before I ring your bell?”
She smiled, really just a teasing twist of her lips as she pretended to think about his request. He liked that about her, she was fun. She probably laughed a lot and he needed more of that in his life. “It’s Leighanne. Leighanne Colson.”
He liked her name too.
“Okay Leighanne, how much?” He pulled out his wallet.
“A dollar per swing…” she paused when he handed over a ten-dollar bill. “You think you’re going to need ten swings?”
“Nope. I’ll get it in one, the rest is for a kiss,” Bear grabbed the handle of the large hammer, testing the weight as he rolled his shoulders in preparation.
“A kiss? The kissing booth is just beyond the cotton candy booth,” Leighanne said as she slid the money into a pocket.
He shrugged. “It’s all for the charity, right? Once I ring your bell, let’s just pretend we’re in the kissing booth.”
“That’s not how it works,” she said, her tone sounding more “yes, please” than “hell, no”.
“It does now.” He didn’t wait for her agreement, he could see it in her eyes. She’d called him over for a reason and he wasn’t going to waste this chance. Bear heaved up the hammer and positioned his body behind the game, rolling his shoulders to loosen up the muscles. Taking a couple of experimental swings, he took a deep breath and brought the hammer down on the pad and watched as the metal piece flew up into the air and made loud, clanging contact with the brass bell at the top.
It was loud. So loud that people in the area jumped a little and then clapped, light laughter filling the air and mingling with the sounds of crowds and piped in country music. He nodded to those who congratulated him, setting down the hammer on the grass next to the game.
“I rang your bell,” Bear stated the obvious, sliding in close that she had to look up to make eye contact. He ventured out one hand, hooking a finger in one of her belt loops and pulling her just shy of full-body contact with him. She sucked in a quick breath and let it out, her breasts pressing against his chest, the contact causing him to shiver.
“You did.”
“I want to claim my prize.”
Her lips curled in a hint of smile as her fingertips brushed against his forearm. “Are you asking?”
“No. I’m not.”
He leaned down and took her mouth, all plans to be gentle forgotten when she opened to him immediately and he sunk into her wet heat. She tasted sweet, of mint gum and lemonade and of something he couldn’t imagine living without. Her tongue played with his own, her teeth taking as many opportunities as he did to add a hint of sharp need to their first kiss.
The first…but he somehow knew it wouldn’t be the last.
“But I want that one, Aunt Alexis.” The tow-headed little girl ran up to the carnival booth next to the High Striker game, where teddy bears in every color of the rainbow lined the wooden shelves.“Gabby, come back here,” Alex said, readjusting the popcorn and slushies Gabby had already conned her into buying. It wasn’t an easy task with her right arm in a cast.
Gabby had a thing for bunnies, so it wasn’t surprising she was staring, mesmerized, at a massive pink one, plump and plush, nearly as big as she was.
The employee behind the counter manning the game gave her a nod. He wore a red and white vertically striped shirt, black pants, and a straw hat and glasses. A bit nerdy, but he smiled kindly. Alex smiled back. “She loves bunnies,” she said apologetically, nudging Gabby by the shoulders and trying to steer her away.
There was no way she could play the High Striker game, no matter how much she might want to for Gabby, who just got out of the hospital last week after a month-long stay for heart surgery. She was okay, thank God, just underweight and weak. All the more reason for Alex to want to indulge and give her the time of her life at the annual Frugle employee picnic, where they’d set up an entire carnival for the employees and their families.
But right now, she had to get Gabby away from the striker game. Alex was only three weeks out from her wrist break. She’d gone jogging with a blind date. By the third mile, she was pretty winded, but keeping up appearances—until she tripped over a rock and went flying.
Yeah, she’ d broken her arm trying to impress Mr. Muscle, who didn’t even go into the ER with her. He’d dropped her off at the sliding doors.
That had been her dating luck lately.
Alex tugged gently at Gabby’s elbow, but the child suddenly seemed to grow roots. Being from a family of six, Alex was mostly unfazed. She knew the tricks of the trade. “Oh, look, Gabs, cotton candy next door! C’mon, let’s hurry before they sell out.”
“Step right up, gents,” Mr. High Striker Guy called out. “Try your hand at a game of strength for the lovely ladies.”
“Oh, no, please, it’s okay,” she said apologetically to the guy who was trying to attract customers, or trying to attract some guy who would help her out. But she didn’t want charity. “Really.”
“Please, please, please, Aunt Alex. Please.” Blue eyes the size of the local swimming pool pleaded. Alex sighed. It had been a mistake to allow Gabby to run over to the stuffed animals in the first place.
Distraction. Yes, that’s what she’d try. Gabby’s attention span was about the size of a dime anyway. Alex pointed across the way. “C’mon, let’s go play Go Fish. I hear they’re giving out real goldfish.” Yeah, her sister would certainly thank her if they brought one of those home. Or three. But still, if it took Gabby’s mind off the bunny…
The Striker guy was looking at her a little funny. He was looking at Gabby even more oddly. He pulled out his cell and made a call.
Okay, Striker Guy was giving her the creeps. “C’mon, Gabs. I’ll buy you some ice cream,” she bribed. She almost said Please she wanted out of there so badly. After all, she was running out of food bribes.
When Alex turned around, a man was standing in front of the game—her boss. Well, not exactly her boss, but the man she reported to every day, Colin Blakely. The VP of Frugle, a high-techie search-engine company that had hired her in the PR department a month ago. Except the CEO was a mystery—to just about everyone.
“Hey, Alex,” Colin said, glancing at the guy behind the counter and frowning.
“You know each other?” Striker Guy asked.
“Yeah,” Colin said. “Alex is the PR person we hired to give y—er, the CEO a new reputation. “
“Is that right?” Striker Guy said.
“Well, I’ve actually never met “The Boss,” Alex said, making little air quotes with her fingers.
“Oh, I’m sure you’ll meet him soon,” Striker Guy said.
“I’m not so sure,” Alex said. “He’s very reclusive.”
“Maybe he’s just busy,” he said.
“There are a lot of rumors going around about him,” Alex said.
“Like what?” he asked.
“The three most talked about are agoraphobia, Asperger’s, and facial scarring.”
He laughed. “Well, I’ve heard he’s very social and quite handsome.”
She’d heard that too. And she actually knew the truth—Ryan Nichols’ wife and young daughter had died in a tragic car accident two years ago. The news had been magically extracted from all the major search engines, but she’d found it…in an plain old newspaper in the public library. The benefits of being a former librarian. He’d returned to work soon afterward but as a broken man. Someone who ran the company behind the scenes but never showed his face.
Striker Guy had a nice smile, even though his nerdy glasses obscured a lot of his face. “Colin, for God’s sakes, give it a try for the lady.”
He certainly was on familiar terms with the VP of the company.
“I twisted my shoulder playing baseball yesterday,” Colin said. “I think you’re going to have to come out here yourself.”
“Isn’t that against the rules?” Striker Guy asked.
“Funny, I thought you made the rules,” Colin said with a chuckle. More joking around.
What was going on here?
“Allow me to try.”
Striker Guy was suddenly standing next to her. Alex gasped despite herself because he was so…tall. She met his eyes—they were a warm brown behind the glasses, the awful nerdy glasses that he’d already pushed up with his nose twice. Plus he smelled good, like expensive cologne, woodsy and spicy.
She didn’t have time to say no; Gabby was squealing with delight, egging him on, begging for him to smack the puck into oblivion.
He picked up the mallet and brought it down hard on the metal lever. And at that moment, Alex saw that Clark Kent had a bod. A gorgeous bod. Muscles rippled though his athletic shirt. His thighs flexed below his shorts hem. And oh, his legs. Lean, muscular, tanned. Clark had been hiding some impressive assets behind the counter, hadn’t he?
The puck shot up, but didn’t hit the top. He readjusted his shirt and his glasses, which had gone askew. Actually, he tore the glasses completely off and handed them to Alex. “Will you hold these?”
Alex blinked. Because the man had amazing eyes! Brown, stunning eyes, with dark wavy hair and golden skin, like he was Greek or Italian or something. She lost all words. Somehow, she managed to hold out her hand to retrieve the horrible glasses.
For a moment, he stared at her. The corner of his full mouth tipped up in the slightest smile. “I’m going to try again,” he said.
“Here you go, boss,” Colin said, handing him the mallet.
Boss? Colin was calling him boss? Alex glanced at Colin but he was focused on his friend, who was winding up to strike like he meant business.
“Go, Mr. Ryan, go!” Gabby said, clapping her little hands.
He gripped the mallet again, but he turned his attention to her. “What else do they say about—Mr. Nichols?”
“That it’s difficult to get into his inner circle. And the employees fear that it’s just as difficult for their concerns to get heard as well.” She paused for a moment.
“I review employee comments every day.”
“Me too, but no one is sure if Mr. Nichols does. Since no one sees him, no one is certain what exactly he does. And that misconception tends to stick.”
“What else?”
She shrugged. “That he keeps to himself. That he’s a fanatical exerciser. That he’s fussy with his food and he doesn’t date. Oh, and that he really is a recluse.”
“He’s not a recluse,” he said so low she almost didn’t hear. Clearly she’d hit a sore spot.
What a strange man. He focused that intense gaze on the striker surface, winding up and coming down hard on the metal thing with double his effort.
The puck shot up, the bell dinged.
“It rang! It rang!” Gabby shouted, throwing herself around the stranger’s knees.
Alex ran to peel her niece away, fearing that this he would be repelled by the impulsive display of affection. But he smiled. Reached down and patted Gabby’s head. Flashed her another one of those amazing smiles.
Colin went behind the counter and got the bunny, which Gabby immediately lunged for and held on to with all her might. It really was bigger than she was.
“Thank you for your kindness, Mr. Nichols,” Alex said. “I won’t forget it. Neither will Gabby.”
His brow raised at the mention of his name. “How did you know?”
She shrugged. “I used to be a librarian. I’m used to digging below the surface for things. But don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.” She turned to collect Gabby and leave.
“Wait,” he said, touching her elbow. She swore she felt his touch into her shoulder, her chest, her stomach, everywhere.
“I’ve been hanging out here today, seeing if everyone was enjoying themselves. I didn’t mean to be deceptive. Forgive me.”
He was an odd one. But oh, those eyes were so soft and warm, so melted-chocolaty, and they were looking at her like she was ice cream. “Well, you did make one little girl really happy.”
“Let me make it up to you.”
“You don’t owe me anything.”
“No, I insist.”
“Okay, but I have…conditions.”
“Conditions?”
“Yes. I’d like to have a formal meeting with my employer.”
“Done. What else?”
“I need some help getting the rabbit in the car, considering I only have one arm.”
“No problem.”
“And one last request.”
“What’s that?”
“Will you win me that little blue teddy bear on the top shelf?” She smiled a little, so he’d know she was kidding.
“I’ll make you a deal. If I hit the bell again, you get the stuffed animal and I get a date.”
[Axle Alley Vipers Series, Book 3] by Sherilee Gray
Author's Book Description :
- He's driving her crazy...
Piper West is finally on her own, and it's time to get crazy. Except that her overprotective big bro has enlisted his ex-cop best friend to keep an eye on his baby sister. With every move monitored and reported back, Piper's life has gone from "going crazy" to "being driven crazy." But a searing-hot kiss with her sexy and scarred watchdog is just the game-changer she needs...
Cole Black owes Piper's brother big-time, but there's nothing easy about his new assignment. Piper is all feisty sexiness and curves meant to tempt a man beyond reason, and Cole can't stop himself. Now he's caught up in a hunger like nothing he's ever known, and he can't get enough...
Even if Piper's the one girl he's not allowed to have.
This book is available to order on :
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[Bachelor Auction Series, Book 2] by Naima Simone
Author's Book Description :
- He promised to stay away…but some promises are made to be broken.
Plain-Jane computer programmer Khloe Richardson needs a date—one to make the prince of her dreams jealous. Maybe then he’ll finally see her as a desirable swan and not the ugly duckling in the second office from the left.
But when she bids on a bachelor at a charity auction, the man she wins is millionaire Niall Hunter—who once made intense, passionate love to her and then left without a word. She’s determined not to let her guard down again—among other things—around the infamous Irish lothario.
Niall never imagined his penance for one hot-as-hell night with his best friend’s little sister would be transforming her from a shy wallflower to a sultry siren. Helping her attract another man is torture…especially when he promised his friend he’d stay away. Plus, she wants forever, and he’s not a forever kind of guy. But Niall can’t stop wanting her. Can’t stop touching her. Can’t stop, period. And damn if he can remember why he has to…
This book is available to order on :
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[Time to Misbehave Series, Book 2] by Carmen Falcone
Author's Book Description :
- When fantasy becomes reality…
The last thing nanny Alice Sommers needs is to be caught skinny-dipping by her sexy, cranky-pants boss—in his pool. Her sister owes a crap-load of money to a slimy loan shark and Alice really needs this job if she has any hope of saving her family. Fortunately, her boss is richer than sin and needs her just as much.
Art dealer Lorenzo Baldi will lose his prestigious career if his anarchist father’s paintings are revealed to the art world. He’s determined to persuade the paintings’ eccentric owner to sell them to him, even if to pull it off, he’ll have to blackmail his daughter’s nanny—a woman with the sexy curves of a Botticelli masterpiece—into being his fake fiancé.
The gorgeous island of Capri inspires some major misbehaving. But even as the loan shark breathes down Alice’s neck and the paintings move closer to the art scene, Lorenzo drops one more bomb that will change everything.
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by Alexia Adams
Author's Book Description :
- She slipped aboard his yacht, but can he keep her out of his heart?
Egyptian heiress Rania Ghalli is desperate to free her political prisoner uncle before it’s too late. Hoping to make it to North Africa, she stows away on the yacht of Greek millionaire Demetri Christodoulou. But when Egyptian agents board the boat, she can either jump overboard…or claim she’s Demetri’s new bride.
Tired of being no more than the bastard disgrace to the Christodoulou name, Demetri intends to build a luxury resort below his grandfather’s house so the old man has no choice but to acknowledge that Demetri has made something of himself. But first, he needs a wife to complete the land purchase.
With Rania now at his mercy, a plan comes together. He’ll play along, protecting her and helping to free her uncle, but in exchange, he demands a real marriage. But keeping the vivacious heiress out of his heart will be a lot harder than keeping her on his ship…
This book is available to order on :
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[Boys are Back in Town Series, Book 2] by Robin Covington
Author's Book Description :
- Finalist in the short contemporary category of the Booksellers Best Awards!
Some women are bad. Some women are a bad idea. The best ones are both…
As a Black Ops assassin, “Lucky” Landon has had more than his fair share of close calls. Now he’s turned in his sniper rifle for the simple life of his small hometown. So the last thing he ever expected was to end up at gunpoint. Or that the woman holding the gun would be his best friend’s little sister and Lucky’s on-again/off-again lover.
Taylor Elliott is Trouble, and she likes it that way. And seeing Lucky again? Well, he’s been her dirty little secret for the past few years and everyone knows that secrets in a small town are almost impossible to keep. But Taylor has bigger problems on her plate. Like the local mob boss who wants her dead.
And right now the only thing standing between Trouble and disaster is a hottie named Lucky…
This book is available to order on :
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[Kingston Family Series, Book 1] by Miranda Liasson
Author's Book Description :
- When the other shoe drops, she’ll steal his heart…
Maddie Kingston just walked away from everything in order to take over her family’s struggling shoe business. And she’s in some serious trouble. The majority of the company’s shares have been bought out by none other than Maddie’s ex-boyfriend, self-made billionaire Nick Holter. Now Maddie needs his help…even if it means buying Nick from a charity bachelor auction.
After the Kingstons destroyed his grandfather’s career, Nick vowed to take over their company. He’s inches from victory when he finds himself bought and paid for…by his sexy ex-girlfriend who’s hell-bent on saving her family’s company. Between their families’ feud and their own unfinished business, tempers—and emotions—run hot. Too hot.
Because kissing with the enemy is a guaranteed shoe-in for trouble…
This book is available to order on :
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About the Authors :
Sherilee Gray’s always had a big (some may say warped) imagination, and as a kid scared herself conjuring up horror stories full of ghosts and other terrifying creatures. As she got older the stories changed quite a bit, but they were always there. Still, she never dreamed of actually writing down any of those wonderful imaginary people or places. Not until many years later when her sister introduced her to the wondrous world of romance novels, and her very large book collection.She’s pleased to say, she still has the big imagination… only now her characters are chasing their happily ever after.
Sherilee Gray is a kiwi girl and lives in beautiful New Zealand with her husband and their two children. When she isn't writing sexy, edgy contemporary romance or fueling her voracious book addiction, she can be found dreaming of far off places with a mug of tea in one hand and a bar of Cadburys Rocky Road chocolate in the other.
Naima Simone's love of romance was first stirred by Johanna Lindsey and Linda Howard many years ago. Though her first attempt at writing a romance novel at age 11 never saw the light of day, her love of romance and writing has endured. Now, she spends her time creating stories of unique men and women who experience the dizzying heights of passion and the tender heat of love.She is wife to Superman--or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent--and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States.
Carmen Falcone learned at an early age that fantasizing about fictional characters beats doing math homework any day. Brazilian by birth and traveler by nature, she moved to Central Texas after college and met her broody Swiss husband—living proof that opposites attract. She found in writing her deepest passion and the best excuse to avoid the healthy lifestyle everyone keeps talking about. When she’s not lost in the world of romance, she enjoys spending time with her two kids, being walked by her three crazy pugs, reading, catching up with friends, and chatting with random people in the checkout line.
Alexia Adams used to travel the world, meeting new people, experiencing new sights and tastes. She’s lived in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, England, and France, as well as spending three months in Panama and two months in Russia. When life demanded that she stay rooted in one place, she took to vicarious voyages through the characters she created in her romance novels. Her stories reflect her love of travel and feature locations as diverse as the wind-swept prairies of Canada to the hot and humid jungles of Guyana.
A USAToday bestseller, Robin Covington loves to explore the theme of fooling around and falling in love in her books. Her stories burn up the sheets. . .one page at a time. When she's not writing she's collecting tasty man candy, indulging in a little comic book geek love, hoarding red nail polish and stalking Chris Evans.A 2016 RITA® Award nominee, Robin's books have won the Golden Leaf Award and finaled in the Romantic Times Reviewer's Choice, the Book Seller's Best and the National Reader's Choice Awards.
She lives in Maryland with her handsome husband, her two brilliant children (they get it from her, of course!), and her beloved furbabies, Dutch and Dixie Joan Wilder (Yes - THE Joan Wilder)
My Previous Review(s) for Robin Covington : The Prince's Runaway Lover
My Previous Mention(s) of Robin Covington's Books/Characters : Second Sentence Saturday: The Prince’s Runaway Lover
Miranda Liasson loves to write stories about courageous but flawed characters who find love despite themselves, because there's nothing like a great love story. And if there are a few laughs along the way, even better! She won the 2013 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart Award for Series Romance and also writes contemporary romance for Montlake Publishing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband, three kids, and office mates Maggie, a yellow lab, and Posey, a rescue cat with attitude. Miranda loves to hear from readers!Check out all of their Book Previews :
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- Carmen Falcone - Website
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- Robin Covington - Website & Blog
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- Amazon.com Page
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