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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: On The Line by Victoria Denault – Hometown Players Series- Book 5

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On the Line by Victoria Denault
Publication Date: December 6th, 2016
Publisher: Forever Yours
Genre: Contemporary Romance

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Synopsis:

He had total control of his game–until she changed all the rules . . .
As one of the best players in the NHL and the “golden boy” of the league, Avery Westwood knows he has to keep his cool–on and off the ice. His whole life is a carefully constructed image of perfection for the media and his brand sponsors. Of course, that means he can never let his true feelings show. But when it comes to the sexy sister of his former teammate, Avery might be willing to make an exception . . . even if it means breaking all his own rules.

As far as Stephanie Deveau is concerned, having a thing for Avery is the equivalent of psychological napalm. Très bad idea. Then he moves in next door, all sexy smiles and a deliciously hot body that she can’t resist. Something’s happening between them–it’s intense, a little (a lot) out of control, and real. Only Avery doesn’t know everything about Stephanie’s past. And the one exception to his rule might just be the one girl who could destroy his career.

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Purchase Links:

Amazon US / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes / Kobo / Google

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5Star

Michel’s Review

I have become a huge Victoria Denault fan.  Her Hometown Players series has won my heart!  The combination of sports ( hockey ), romance, and emotional angst makes this series a must read.  The strong dynamic characters from all walks of life with different personalities and experiences makes this series work.  Victoria’s gift for creating a great story is the icing on the cake.

Each book in the Hometown Series can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order.  I would highly recommend reading them in order because the reader gets to know all of the characters better.

Going into this book I wasn’t quite sure if I was going to like Avery Westwood.  Readers briefly met Avery, the team captian, in previous books.  Avery came across as very self serving individual rather than a captain dedicated to the game and the team members.  He has been conditioned from early childhood to be an all star player to gain promotional and business opportunities that come with being a professional athlete.  His focus on his professional career makes him a bit stand offish as a team member.  He’s created an image but lost the real man beneath the fake smiles and great hockey performances.  Stephanie Deveau has been the only person to look beneath the surface and see the man he’s hiding.

Stephanie Deveau has worked very hard to get her life to where it is today.  Her past struggles have left scars.  When she met Avery Westwood, the captain of her brother’s hockey team, she secretly crushes on him. She knows a relationship with him would be impossible because her past secrets could ruin his image.  She’s willing to settle for a lasting friendship.

Avery signed with the San Diego Saints NHL team.  His move to San Diego has put him closer to Stephanie.  He finally has taken control of his life and has the freedom to make his own choices rather than being controlled.  He’s elated and high on life.  He can finally pursue the things he really wants out of life.  He wants Stephanie!

Stephanie and Avery were meant to be together.  Can Avery handle Stephanie’s secrets from the past? Can Avery handle a black mark on his image?  Can Avery take control of his life and keep Stephanie by his side? Can he let go of the image and be the man he truly wants to be?

Victoria Denault did a wonderful job with this book.  She wrote the book from duo points of view and layed the groundwork for this couples budding friendship to a passionate romance.  On The Line is another winner for Victoria Denault.

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About the Author:

Victoria Denault loves long walks on the beach, cinnamon dolce lattes and writing angst-filled romance. Before focusing on writing novels, Victoria was a journalist and a stand-up comic. She’s also an avid hockey fan who cheers more than one team and has a thing for play-off beards. Victoria grew up in Montreal, Canada but has lived in many major cities across North America. She spent her childhood summers in Maine and adult summers in Spain. She’s now happily settled in Los Angeles with her husband and their two chubby Chihuahuas.

Connect with Victoria:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorvictoriadenault/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BooksbyVictoria
Amazon: http://amzn.to/29PrTFH

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Nico by Sarah Castille – Ruin & Revenge Series – Book 1

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Nico

Ruin & Revenge Series – Book 1

By Sarah Castille

Release Date: December 6, 2016

Pre Order: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Google Play

Synopsis

Las Vegas Mafia boss Nico Toscani is used to getting what he wants, whether it is having the City of Sin under his rule or a beautiful woman in his bed. But when he meets his match in the gorgeous, headstrong Mia Cordano, the daughter of a rival crime lord, all bets are off . . . Sexy computer hacker Mia struggles to break free of her ruthless father’s Mafia ties . . . but she can’t resist the powerful and seductive Nico, who will stop at nothing to possess her. With their families locked in a brutal war for control of the city, Mia and Nico enter into a forbidden game. Will they surrender to the passion that burns between them and risk tearing apart their families? Or will Nico be forced to betray the only woman who sets his blood on fire?

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Excerpt

He sensed her before he saw her. The soft thud of her boots, whispers in the air, the intoxicating scent of her perfume. Not wanting to ruin the moment, he kept his eyes averted until he finished his call. When he finally looked up, he saw an angel, dressed as the devil, to tempt him beyond original sin.

“Hello, Mr. Mob Boss.”

Hunger like he’d never known before took over him at the sound of her voice—husky and throaty in a way that made him think about pushing her to places where they would both lose their self-control.

She tapped her foot, and his gaze dropped to her boots. Cristo! She rocked her sexy punk clothes like no other woman he’d met, and more than anything he wanted to get under her skin. He wanted to know what made her tick, what music she listened to, what she liked to eat, and whether her apartment was as offbeat as her clothes. He wanted to know what it was about her that made a powerful Toscani capo with an empire to run want to spend the evening in a pool hall waiting for her to appear.

“Mia.” Her name on his lips was a sensual treat. “You’re lucky I’m a patient man.”

She snorted a laugh. “You are not a patient man. A patient man would have waited to bump into me on the street or at a wedding or a funeral, of which I expect there will be many after people see you here with me. An impatient man lays siege until he gets what he wants.”

“Do I get what I want?” He leaned forward and licked his lips, his entire being focused on her. An entire SWAT team could have run into the building throwing grenades and shooting machine guns, and he would have been totally unable to drag his gaze away.

“Depends what it is.”

“How about you in my bed?” He wasn’t usually so direct with the women he was trying to seduce, but playing it safe wasn’t going to work with a strong woman like Mia. He had to prove himself worthy and he could only do that by taking risk. Although he tried to convince himself he had come to honor a debt, the reality was he couldn’t stay away.

“You’ve wasted one of your three wishes. Try again.”

Nico frowned. “I thought I was forgiven.”

“Because I accepted a ride from you, and you fixed my car? Because I gave you a little thank-you kiss? Gratitude for a kind deed doesn’t equal forgiveness. And forgiveness doesn’t equal sex.”

Sex.

His assessing gaze drifted down her body, taking in the quick flutter of the pulse in her neck, the slight flush on her cheeks, and the bead of her nipples pressed against her thin tank top. He felt the impact of her desire deep in his groin. Fuck. Thirty seconds with her and he was perilously close to losing his self-control. Again.

“Are you done checking me out, Mr. Mob Boss?”

Cristo. Every word from her mouth went straight to his cock. Women didn’t talk to Nico with amused disdain. They didn’t accept his gifts and walk away. They didn’t make him wait three hours in a pool hall for the honor of their presence.

“You are a beautiful woman,” he said honestly. “You deserve a man who knows how to please a woman in bed.”

Her lips tipped at the corners, and she walked without hesitation between his parted legs sending all the wrong messages to the right part of his body. “And that would be you?”

“Yes.”

Heat sizzled in the air between them, and she dropped her gaze but, not before he saw the truth in her eyes. Yes, she wanted him. But she was going to make him work damn hard for the privilege of finding out what she hid beneath those badass punk clothes.

Boldly, he smoothed his hand up her thigh to curve around her hip. Pulling her closer, he gestured her down, pressed his lips to her ear. “You are wet for me, bella. Hot. I hear your need in the quickness of your breath, see it the flush in your cheeks, your nipples tight and begging for my touch, and if I stroked you, gently rubbed my thumb over your clit, you would come for me, and you would scream my name.”

Her breath hitched, ever so softly, and then she pulled away. “Save the sweet words for the women who are awed by your mobster charm.”

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5Star

Tracey’s Review

“I’m not afraid of girls with guns, bella. They either don’t know how to shoot or they don’t have what it takes to pull the trigger.
“Then you’ve never met a woman like me.”
“No, but I’m looking forward to our acquaintance.”

Nico Toscani is all about control. Casino owner, made man, member of the Cosa Nostra, he’s a man of many faces, and is used to calling the shots. Having decided long ago that the life of a mafia princess was not for her, Mia Cordano happily left behind a world where she was not in control to make her own way, and she’s not about to answer to anyone now, not even an ultra-sexy mob boss.

As a fan of the mobster read, I can happily say that author Sarah Castille has nailed it with NICO, the first book in her new Ruin & Revenge series. It’s everything dark, sexy, and dangerous, full of characters with as much to lose as to gain, and a storyline that just doesn’t quit, and I could not put it down.

As the bastard son of a former capo in the Las Vegas arm of the Sicilian mob, Nico Toscani has had to work harder than others to prove himself. But he’s finally at a place where he is a man of means, a man to be obeyed. When Mia Cordano walks in to his casino, though, able to take care of herself, and not at all interested in doing as she’s told, life as he’s known it changes.

Cosa Nostra came before blood family, and blood family came before the man. With his succession hanging in the balance and an agreement with the Sicilian Scozzaris to be honored, Nico had no place chasing after a beautiful, sexy hacker in crazy boots and punk clothes with dubious taste in music, who made him so damn hard when she refused to do his bidding, he couldn’t think straight.

These two drive each other crazy from the first minute that they reenter each others’ worlds, and it’s all sizzle and heat and all kinds of sexy. Even knowing that there is no way that their respective families, sworn enemies, will allow them to be together, Nico and Mia cannot stay away from each other. The magnetic pull between them keeps them coming together again and again, even as chaos erupts around them, and the players in each family stake their claims on the territory of Las Vegas.

I’m no stranger to Sarah and her hot as heck men, but Nico is a delicious departure, and I enjoyed him very much. Mia, too, is a breath of fresh air, every single punk rock hacker chick bit of her, and watching her hold her own and rock Nico’s world is fantastic.

There is action aplenty, dark, bloody, and fast-paced, along with so much passion, angst, and betrayal in this book. My take? NICO is 4.5 gritty, sexy, breathtaking stars, and I can’t wait to see what Sarah does in her next book, LUCA. Ruin & Revenge is a series to take note of, because these books are going to grab you, draw you in, and not let go, and you’ll love every minute of it.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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sarah castilleNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Sarah Castille, writes contemporary erotic romance and romantic suspense featuring blazingly hot alpha males and the women who tame them. A recovering lawyer and caffeine addict, she worked and travelled abroad before trading in her briefcase and stilettos for a handful of magic beans and a home in shadow of the Rocky Mountains.

Sarah loves to connect with readers. Sign up for her newsletter to hear about new releases:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Hit The Spot by J. Daniels – Dirty Deeds Series – Book 2

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Hit The Spot

Dirty Deeds Series – Book 2

By J. Daniels

hit-the-spot-ebook-coverIs this love or just a game?

Tori Rivera thinks Jamie McCade is rude, arrogant, and worst of all . . . the sexiest man she’s ever laid eyes on. His reputation as a player is almost as legendary as his surfing skills. No matter how her body heats up when he’s around, she’s determined not to be another meaningless hookup.

Jamie McCade always gets what he wants. The sickest wave. The hottest women. And Tori, with her long legs and smart mouth, is definitely the hottest one. He knows Tori wants him-hell, most women do-but she won’t admit it. After months of chasing and one unforgettable kiss, it’s time for Jamie to raise the stakes.

Jamie promises that soon Tori won’t just want him in her bed, she’ll be begging for it-and he might be right. Somehow he’s found the spot in her heart that makes her open up like never before. But with all she knows about his past, can she really trust what’s happening between them? Is Jamie playing for keeps or just playing to win?

This book can be read as a stand-alone.

Book 1–Four Letter Word

 

 

 

AMAZON US | AMAZON UK | AMAZON AU | B&N | KOBO | KOBO UK | iBOOKS

iBOOKS UK | iBOOKS AU | Audio

 

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EXCERPT

 

Hammerjacks was dimly lit and packed with bodies, some dancing together and others crowding the bar, waiting to get served. I started scanning the room as I came up beside Tori, who was doing the same even though she had no idea who she was looking for.

I saw Quinn almost instantly. She wasn’t hard to spot.

The bright pink spiked-out hair helped with that.

“There,” I said, pointing in the direction of the bar where my sister was sitting on a stool, head turned away from the group of shitheads swarming her.

She was alone. That pissed me off.

She was here, in town visiting, and she was looking for ass. That pissed me off, too.

Not much I could do about the second thing, I understood it, but she was gonna hear my feelings toward the other whether she wanted to hear them or not.

“What’s her name again?” Tori asked as we made our way over.

“Quinn,” I said.

She nodded, face serious. Then she tucked stray pieces of hair behind her ears and smoothed out the rest of her pony, pulled the one sleeve of her shirt down so it exposed her shoulder and bra strap, straightened her spine, tipped her chin up, and put on a smile before rushing ahead.

“Hey, sweetie. Sorry I’m late,” Tori chirped, squeezing in between my sister and the shitheads as if they weren’t standing there. She grabbed Quinn’s face, bent down, and kissed her cheek. “I missed you. Did you miss me?” she asked, bringing both hands to Quinn’s neck and holding there while standing between her bent knees.

Tori was smiling and playing the part, leaning close and making it seem like they were really together, or at least really feeling each other. My sister was blinking up at Tori, looking baffled but also looking like she was wanting to buy everything Legs was selling.

I wasn’t surprised. Quinn shared my taste in women. And I definitely had a taste for Legs.

“Whoa, are you two…damn. Is this your girl?” one of the shitheads asked from behind Tori, pointing at the back of her.

“Jesus,” another one chimed in, looking his fill. “What are the chances of me watchin’ you two go at it? This is fuckin’ hot.”

I stepped up then, not liking the tone of this guy and the shit coming out of his mouth, and wanting to make my presence known.

He saw me approach and shot me a hard look, asking, “You gotta problem?”

“Jamie.”

Teeth clenched and fists forming, I looked to Quinn, not taking the bait he was throwing out.

She was watching me, eyes serious and mouth tight, subtly shaking her head in warning ’cause she knew I couldn’t be fighting or doing anything that could draw negative attention. Then she turned her attention onto Tori when she twisted and slid into Quinn’s lap.

“Fishing in the wrong pond, boys,” Tori informed them, sweeping her gaze over the three while putting her arm around Quinn’s shoulders and pressing close. “Get lost. We’re not interested.” Then she turned all of her attention onto my sister and amped up her game, giggling as she kept her face close to hers and running her fingers through her hair, smiling, whispering, really flirting and looking into it, all while blocking the view of the shitheads so they couldn’t watch.

And everything Legs was doing, my sister was eating up.

Wrapping her arms around Tori and holding on to her, smiling back, laughing, looking like she was falling in love and thinking this was real and something sustainable.

I was starting to regret incorporating Tori into this plan. She was a little too good at her game. Straight up. Maybe the best at it.

I was also starting to get mildly jealous watching my sister getting attention from the one woman who was hell-bent on ignoring my ass.

“Man, whatever,” the one guy said, grabbing his beer and looking to his friends. “Come on. I’m not wastin’ my time on lesbian pussy.”

His friends murmured their agreement, mentioned something about hitting up Roy’s, a bar down the street, then grabbed their beers and stepped away.

When they were out of earshot, I shifted my eyes to Legs, telling her, “Think you sold it. You can get off my sister now.”

Tori smiled proudly, lifting her shoulders with a little dance. Then she looked to Quinn, keeping the smile, and said, “Hey, I’m Tori. Your brother dragged me here, so I figured I’d offer my assistance instead of letting him handle it, since he can’t fight and all.”

“Can fight, just shouldn’t,” I corrected her. I jerked my chin. “Hop off.”

Quinn moved her hands up Tori’s back and licked her lips. “Wicked plan,” my sister told her. “I was totally into that.”

“I think it got the point across,” Tori replied. “I really like your hair, by the way.” She ran her fingers through it again. “The color looks great on you.”

“Really?”

“Absolutely. It really makes your eyes pop.”

“I was thinking about going purple…”

“Have you tried bleaching the roots and just painting the color on the ends? I think that would look amazing with purple.”

Jesus.

“Legs,” I barked.

Both of their heads whipped around and faced my direction.

“You feelin’ like gettin’ up so we can get the fuck outta here?” I asked, thinking only about the food back at her place I was wanting to eat and not about how comfortable my sister’s hands looked gripping on to Tori’s body.

“She’s fine,” Quinn offered, keeping her hands locked around Legs. “Really. She doesn’t have to move.”

I shot a glare at Quinn, communicating how I felt about that suggestion, then shifted that glare to Tori.

“I was getting up. Relax. We were just talking,” she huffed, moving off Quinn’s lap and coming to stand beside me. “You’re welcome, by the way,” she murmured.

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5Star

Michel’s Review

This is my second book by J. Daniels and I can easily see why readers love her books.  She has made my must read author list.

Hit The Spot is the second book in the Dirty Deeds series.  Each book can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order.  Either way the reading experience is a pure delight.

Jamie McCade is a persistent, dirty mouthed, professional surfing champion.  He has a reputation with the ladies that he has rightfully earned.  He uses his charm to get the ladies in bed and makes no apologies for his actions.  He didn’t become a world surfing champion because of his charm.  He is a champion because he is persistent, dedicated, and refuses to lose at anything.  He is very dedicated to his family and friends. He would do anything for them.  He has set his sights on Tori Riveria, the woman with legs a mile long and an extreme dislike for him.  He’s determined to win her over.  He’s a patient man and he always wins.

Tori Rivera is a woman that knows what she wants.  After a bad relationship with a married man she is very wary of men in general.  She doesn’t want a certified player that has no respect for relationships and love.  The next man she becomes involved with has to be dedicated, sincere, and must respect her.  Jamie McCade is not that man.  She detests him.  She also secretly swoons over him, which in turn makes her angry with herself.

Nine months of a delightful game of cat and mouse takes Jamie and Tori in unchartered waters.  The creative verbal sparring and the sizzling sex does more than burn the sheets, it burns down the house.  Both Tori and Jamie have more at stake than scorched sheets, their hearts are at stake.  Beneath the surface, they both have big hearts that were meant for each other.

Hit The Spot by J. Daniels was a pure delight to read.  I loved Tori and Jamie.  I would highly recommend this book.

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logo-rectangle-1-2400-x-1025J.Daniels is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Sweet Addiction series, the Alabama Summer series, and the Dirty Deeds series.

She would rather bake than cook, she listens to music entirely too loud, and loves writing stories her children will never read. Her husband and children are her greatest loves, with cupcakes coming in at a close second.

J grew up in Baltimore and resides in Maryland with her family.

Sign up to receive her newsletter and get special offers and exclusive release info: http://authorjdaniels.com/newsletter/

Twitter | Instagram | Website | Facebook | Amazon Author Page |Goodreads | Reader’s Group

 

 

Blog Tour + Excerpt: After We Fall by Melanie Harlow

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After We Fall

By Melanie Harlow

Release Date: November 28, 2016

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes

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Synopsis

Jack Valentini isn’t my type.

Sexy, brooding cowboys are fine in the movies, but in real life, I prefer a suit and tie. Proper manners. A close shave.

Jack might be gorgeous, but he’s also scruffy, rugged, and rude. He wants nothing to do with a “rich city girl” like me, and he isn’t afraid to say so.

But I’ve got a PR job to do for his family’s farm, so he’s stuck with me for ten days, and I’m stuck with him. His glares. His moods. His tight jeans. His muscles.

His huge, hard muscles.

Pretty soon there’s a whole different kind of tension between us, the kind that has me misbehaving in barns, trees, and pickup trucks. I’ve never done anything so out of character—but it feels too good to stop.

And the more I learn about the grieving ex-Army sergeant, the better I understand him. Losing his wife three years ago left him broken and bitter and blaming himself. He doesn’t think he deserves a second chance at happiness.

But he’s wrong.

I don’t need to be his first love. If only he’d let me be his last.

 

“Second chances are not given to make things right, but are given to prove that we could be even better after we fall.” —Unknown

 

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Excerpt

“Wow,” she said, shutting the screen door behind her. “That was close. Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome.” I crossed my arms, wishing I’d thought to grab a shirt. “Want to tell me what you were doing out there?”

Her cheeks colored. “Um, I was taking a run.”

“Up a tree?”

She laughed nervously. “No. Well, I didn’t start out in a tree. That happened later.”

I cocked my head, unable to resist giving her a hard time. Not so sure of yourself now, are you, Barbie?  “Oh yeah?”

“Yes. See, I left the cottage I’m renting without using the bathroom by mistake,” she began, twisting her fingers together, “and I was planning on running a loop around the farm, but it’s bigger than I thought.”

“Ah. So you were looking for a bathroom in the woods?”

“Well, yes.” She swallowed. “Sort of. But then I heard a splash and saw you…” Her cheeks were practically purple now.

I played dumb. “Saw me what?”

“Saw you naked, OK?” she blurted, throwing her hands up. “I admit it—I saw you naked.”

I had no hangups about nudity, but I was damn serious about my privacy, and about people sneaking up on me. But her embarrassment was funny. The two times I’d seen her before, she’d been so polished and poised. It felt good to put her in her place a little. “So you climbed a tree for a better view, is that it?”

Bowing her head, she dragged the toe of one shoe across the wood planks of the porch floor. “Something like that.” Then she looked up at me. Took a breath. “I’m really sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. I was—I mean, I got—I couldn’t—” She sighed, briefly closing her eyes. “I have no excuse. Will you accept my apology?”

She was prettier without makeup, I decided. And the way she wore her hair off her face emphasized the wideness of her eyes, the angle of her cheekbones, the arch of her brows. Her lips didn’t need all that glossy crap, either. They were a perfect rosy pink, and I wondered if they’d feel as soft as they looked.

Fuck. I hadn’t kissed anyone in three years.

Clearing my throat, I took a step back. “Yeah. It’s fine.” Now get out of here. 

She didn’t move. “So you’re not going to fire me?”

“I never hired you.”

“I know. But I really want this job. I think I can help, Jack. I know I can.”

“Suit yourself. I want nothing to do with it.” My name on her lips was trouble. Needing some distance from her, I started walking toward the dock to get my shoes and socks, but she followed me. God, she was a pest. It reminded me of the way Steph used to tag along after the boys when we were kids, wanting to get in our games.

“Are you going to be like this the entire time I’m here?” she asked.

“Like what?”

“Moody and uncooperative?”

“Probably.”

“Why? Do you hate me that much?”

“I don’t hate anybody. I just don’t see why we should pay some city girl who’s never set foot on a farm to advise us.” We reached the dock, and I leaned down to get my stuff.

“I’m not even asking to be paid, so piss off!” she shouted, her voice carrying on the water.

I straightened. “Oh, you’re working for free?”

“Yes!”

“Then you’re an idiot. Or so rich you don’t need the money.”

“I’m not an idiot,” she said through clenched teeth.

“So you’re rich, then.” I don’t know why I was being such an asshole. But for some reason, I did not want to let her see another side of me, or see another side to her. “I should have guessed.”

She crossed her arms. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means you look like you’ve led a charmed life. Like you’ve had everything you’ve ever wanted handed to you. Like you’ve never gotten your hands dirty.”

“So get them dirty.”

I almost fell off the dock. “What?”

“Get them dirty. Teach me about working this farm. I want to learn.”

Was she serious? The last thing I needed was to drag her ass around all day, explaining things. Or stare at her ass all day, imagining things. But one look at her defiant face and I shook my head. “Why do I feel like if I say no, you’ll just keep bothering me?”

She smiled and clasped her hands behind her back, rocking forward on her toes. “Because I will. I don’t like being told no.”

“Of course you don’t.” Jesus, she was trouble. A bad apple—smooth and shiny on the outside, spoiled rotten on the inside. But for no good reason, I found myself giving in. “Fine. Go change your clothes.”

chance

 

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About the Author:

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Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like VEEP, Game of Thrones, House of Cards, and Homeland. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, the FRENCHED series, and the sexy historical SPEAK EASY duet, set in the 1920s. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.


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Holiday Release Blitz: Dashing Through the Snow by M. Leighton – A Sexy, Snowy Christmas Tale

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live-ppNeed some fun to brighten up the holidays? Need some heat to warm up the cold nights? Well,this is just the thing. DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW, a sexy, snowy Christmas story by M. Leighton is LIVE!

Dashing Through The Snow

 A Sexy, Snowy Christmas Tale

By M. Leighton

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

A dash of perfect for the holidays!

Dilyn Hart hates Christmas, so when her boss (and ex-boyfriend) hands her an assignment to interview champion snowboarder and gorgeous playboy extraordinaire, Dash Grainger, on Christmas Eve, she takes it. There are several things she doesn’t plan for—a surly driver, a chalet in the middle of nowhere, a freak snowstorm—but the biggest surprise of all is Dash himself.

Dash Grainger lives for the high, and so far in his twenty-six years, he’s never met anyone or anything he loves more. Nothing has ever thrilled him as much as slick snow, cold air, and breakneck speed.

Until he meets Dilyn.

But one perfect night doesn’t mean clear, blue skies the next day. Some storms can’t be weathered.

Christmas might just be one of them.

 

 

5Holiday

Tracey’s Review

Christmas is no time of joy for reporter Dilyn Hart, so when she catches a story that will take her away from the hustle and bustle of holiday time, she’s all in. Off to Colorado she goes, ready to go head to head with snowboarding’s golden boy, Dash Grainger. Who knew what 24 hours, a whopper of a snowstorm, and s’mores like Dilyn’s never had them could bring?

If Michelle Leighton writes it, it’s a foregone conclusion that it’ll be at the top of my reading list. I’m a fan of everything that she does, but her sexy, light-hearted reads really make me smile, so I knew that DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW was going to be a win for me. No disappointment here, because I loved, loved, loved this sexy, sassy little book, and zipped right through it like it was my favorite chocolate.

Dilyn and Dash have an immediate connection, and, while I scoff at insta-love with the best of them, I was all in here. Because the heat, y’all, the absolute sizzle sparking between the two of them was practically jumping off the page. You know, the kind that sort of makes you blush, giggle, and look over your shoulder to see who’s around while you fan yourself? Yeah, that. Miss Michelle writes love scenes like nobody’s business, and, man, was she ever on point here.

Beyond the, you know, sexy times, Dilyn and Dash immediately share something that is really special. Dash is definitely much more than Dilyn was expecting, and the reality of him is eye-opening. They bring out things in each other and just round each other out in ways that they didn’t expect. Fast? Yes, but totally believable, and I loved every minute of it.

I mean, I just had no idea he’d be this…this…much. This gorgeous. This charismatic. This charming and fun and sexy and…That he’d have this way of stealing time and reason, and making me feel so much in such a short period of time.

Although Dilyn may have started out a humbug, she’ll never look at Christmas the same way again, and what a wonderful thing. Thank you, Michelle, for 5 stars worth of love, laughter, sizzle, and pop. What a nice present for this holiday season.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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FB: http://smarturl.it/MLeightonFBPage

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Blog Tour + Excerpt + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: A Veil Of Vines by Tillie Cole

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412ja0z1nylA Veil Of Vines
By Tillie Cole 
Synopsis 
To most people, princes, princesses, counts and dukes are found only in the pages of the most famous of fairytales. Crowns, priceless jewels and gilded thrones belong only in childhood dreams.
But for some, these frivolous fancies are truth.
For some, they are real life.
On Manhattan’s Upper East Side, people have always treated me as someone special. All because of my ancestral name and legacy. All because of a connection I share to our home country’s most important family of all.
I am Caresa Acardi, the Duchessa di Parma. A blue blood of Italy. I was born to marry well. And now the marriage date is set.
I am to marry into House Savona. The family that would have been the royals had Italy not abolished the monarchy in 1946. But to the aristocrats of my home, the abolition means nothing at all.
The Savonas still hold power where it counts most.
In our tight-knit world of money, status and masked balls, they are everything and more.
And I am soon to become one of them.
I am soon to become Prince Zeno Savona’s wife…
… or at least I was, until I met Achille.
And everything changed.
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Caresa

As my papa’s G5 began its descent, I looked out of the window beside me and waited for the plane to break through the clouds. I held my breath, body tense, then suddenly the burnt-orange remnants of daylight flooded the plane, bathing the interior with a soft, golden glow. I inhaled deeply. Italia.
Fields and fields of green and yellow created a patchwork quilt below, rolling hills and crystal-blue lakes stretching as far the eye could see. I smiled as a sense of warmth ran through me.
It was the most beautiful place on earth.
Sitting back in my wide cream leather chair, I closed my eyes and tried to prepare myself for what was coming. I was flying to Florence airport, from where I would be swiftly taken to the Palazzo Savona estate just outside of the city.
I would meet Prince Zeno.
I had met him twice before—once when I was four, of which I had no memory, and again when I was ten. The interaction we’d had as children had been brief. If I was being honest, I had found Zeno to be arrogant and rude. He had been thirteen at the time and not at all interested in meeting a ten-year-old girl from America.
Neither of us had known at the time that that our betrothal had been agreed upon two years prior. It turned out that the trip my papa had taken to Umbria when I was eight was to secure a forever-bond between the Savonas and the Acardis. King Santo and my father had planned for their only children to marry. They were already joined in business; Zeno’s arranged marriage to me would also strengthen both families’ place in society.
I thought back on my New York farewell of nine hours ago and sighed. My parents had driven me to the private hangar and said their goodbyes. My mama cried—her only child was leaving her for a new life. My papa, although sad to see me go, beamed at me with the utmost pride. He had held me close and whispered, “I have never been more proud of you than I am right now, Caresa. Savona Wines’ stock has plummeted since Santo’s death. This union will reassure all the shareholders that our business is still strong. That we are still a stable company with Zeno at the helm.”
I had given him a tight smile and boarded the plane with a promise that they would see me before the wedding. And that had been that.
I was to marry Zeno, and I hadn’t protested even once. I imagined to most modern-day women living in New York, the process of arranged marriages sounded positively medieval, even barbaric. For a blue blood, it was simply a part of life.
King Santo Savona died two months ago. The shareholders of his many Italian vineyards, the stakeholders in Savona Wines, had expected his son, Zeno, to immediately step up and take charge. Instead, Zeno had plunged himself into the party scene even harder than before—and that was quite a feat. Within weeks my papa had flown out to Umbria to see what could be done.
The answer: our imminent union.

 

 

 

 

 

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5Star+
 Michel’s Review

A Veil of Vines by Tillie Cole is a must read.  I could not put this book down.  It was a beautiful romance that blossomed in a world where neither of them fit.

A Veil of Vines is heaped with Italian traditions and royal hierarchy.  Although Italy no longer recognizes the royal family as a ruling class, they are still prominent in the traditional customs of the Italian people.

Duchess Caresa Acardi has come to Italy to marry the heir to the Italian throne.  By blood she is bound to the life long traditions of the people of Italy.  She is to become their queen.  Being raised in America has altered her views of love and marriage.  Tradition and the family winery are at stake.  In order to save the winery, the royal family has to show solidity and stability.  The soon to be king has a notorious playboy reputation.  He is a spoiled prince living off his family legacy. She is conflicted about her upcoming marriage to a man that she met briefly as a child.  Her love for her family and their deeply tied roots is the only reasoning she can abide by.  Once she arrives in Italy she finds that her heart may not be tied to the future king but is tied to the land itself.

Achille is the winemaker for the royal winery.  His deep ties to the land and his innate sense of taste has made his wines beyond excellent.  He will always be tied to the land.  It’s his life force until he meets Caresa, his future queen.

Achille and Caresa were meant to be together.  They are true soulmates.  Their blood ties will never allow them to together.  Achille has secrets that will always keep him bound to the land.  The royal family also has secrets that will keep Achille tied to their land and their winery.

I won’t say much more except Tillie Cole did a phenomenal job writing this book.  The beautiful descriptions brings the reader to Italy.  This emotional story is more than a royal romance.  It is a book of deep abiding love for tradition and love for the land.  It is a special  love story that truly shows what matters most in the heart.

I highly recommend A Veil Of Vines by Tillie Cole.

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Giveaway

 

One winner gets a Signed Copy of A Veil of Vines + Limited-Edition The Future Mrs. Marchesi T-Shirt

Enter HERE

_____________________________________________________________

img_1648Tillie Cole hails from a small town in the North-East of England. She grew up on a farm with her English mother, Scottish father and older sister and a multitude of rescue animals. As soon as she could, Tillie left her rural roots for the bright lights of the big city.

After graduating from Newcastle University with a BA Hons in Religious Studies, Tillie followed her Professional Rugby player husband around the world for a decade, becoming a teacher in between and thoroughly enjoyed teaching High School students Social Studies before putting pen to paper, and finishing her first novel.

Tillie has now settled in Austin, Texas, where she is finally able to sit down and write, throwing herself into fantasy worlds and the fabulous minds of her characters.

Tillie is both an independent and traditionally published author, and writes many genres including: Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance, Young Adult and New Adult novels.

When she is not writing, Tillie enjoys nothing more than curling up on her couch watching movies, drinking far too much coffee, while convincing herself that she really doesn’t need that extra square of chocolate.

 

Release Boost + Excerpt + Review + Giveaway: What If It’s Right by J B Heller

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Title: What If It’s Right?
Author: JB Heller
Genre: Comedic Contemporary Romance
Release Date: November 26, 2016

 

Blurb

 

WESTON
I have a problem. A big freaking problem.
Her name is Tory Dixon.
I’ve been in love with her since I was 17.
The problem you ask?
She’s kinda my best friends mum.
VICTORIA
I have a six foot, three inches tall, 22 year-old, problem.
His name is Weston Banks.
I’ve been pretending he doesn’t have feelings for me for the last six years.
You see, fourteen years ago, I became my nephews guardian.
And Weston, well, he’s my nephews best friend.
Which makes him ten years my junior and oh so deliciously complicated.
Purchase Links
 
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

 

Excerpt

 

When I opened the front door and came face to face with Finn’s bare arse I screamed, “What the hell Finn!” I turned my back on him and faced the closed door, “What are you doing? Put some damn pants on.”

“Ah, can you give us a minute?” Finn’s voice sounded small and embarrassed.

“Yep, you betcha. Call out when you’re decent, we are going to be having a serious conversation as soon as clothes are back in play.” Then I re-opened the front door and stepped back out on to the porch.

A minute or two later I heard Finn call out, “Decent.” And I turned the handle and let myself back in.

My jaw dropped when I saw Nixie sitting on the couch beside Finn. Her face as beat red as his. “Wha— Ah— I’m so confused.” I stuttered. “I wish I hadn’t seen what I clearly just saw, but I’m happy to see you, Nixie.”

Her shoulders relaxed in relief, and she gave me a small finger wave, “It’s good to see you too Tory. Sorry about—” her hand gestured between the two of them, “this,” she finished.

“Me too,” I muttered.

Finn was smiling brightly, and I glared at him as I plonked down on the couch that I had not just seen him having sex on. “You’re paying to have that couch cleaned.” I told him. “I watch Netflix on that couch!” I whined. “Couldn’t you have taken it to your bedroom? I mean seriously, what made you think the couch was a good place for you two to be bumping uglies?”

Nixie’s eyes bounced between Finn and myself with a puzzled expression on her pretty face.

I stood up, “You know what, don’t answer that, I can’t deal with this today. I’m exhausted. I just got an awesome tattoo, by the way. Just so you know. I was going to surprise you with it, but you don’t get to see the awesomeness until later now.”

“You what?” Finn asked.

I held my hand up in his face, “Talk to the hand ‘cause the face ain’t listening. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to go scrub my eyeballs with bleach if you don’t mind.” I told him as I walked down the hallway. Every time I closed my damn eyes I could see Finn thrusting into Nixie and I wanted to hurl.

My day couldn’t possibly get any worse. Talking sex and babies with Weston, then seeing Finn’s arse as he pumped into his ex-girlfriend on my Netflix couch. I needed a huge glass of wine and a scalding hot bath to wash it all away.

 

4 Star
Tracey’s Review

Wow, talk about unrequited love! Weston Banks has been waiting what seems like forever for the woman of his dreams, Tori Banks. She’s literally right next door, and he knows that she feels the same way. Problem? She’s his best friends mom. Tori Banks wishes that her heart would just shut up. She knows that the feelings that she has for Wes, her son Finn’s bestie, can’t be good, but, darn it, they sure are persistent. What’s a lady to do?

I’m not gonna lie, I read the blurb for WHAT IF IT’S RIGHT by author J.B. Heller, and I was already all in. I’m a fan of the May-December trope, and this sounded like a great example. I can happily say that I was not disappointed, because J.B. has written a novel that is, by turn, humorous, emotional, and sexy, and that satisfies on every front.

Tori Banks’ life changes dramatically in an instant, and thrusts her into the role of ‘mum’ to her young nephew, Finn. Flying by the seat of her pants, Tori manages to create a normal, happy life for the two of them, one that includes moving in next door to Wes Banks and his mother. Finn and Wes are friends from the very first, and the two spend pretty much every minute together. When Wes starts making, erm, those sorts of comments towards Tori, she chalks it up to his naturally flirtatious and snarky nature, but, as time goes on, it becomes clear that there’s more to it. And, if she’s honest, Tori can’t say that the feelings that Wes inspires in her are totally motherly. I see trouble ahead, folks…

The ‘yuck’ factor might be strong for those not into the scenario of an older woman and younger man, and there is a touch of the forbidden in WHAT IF IT’S RIGHT. Neither Tori nor Wes want to hurt Finn or Wes’ mother, but they can’t help the way that they feel. Tori makes a valiant effort to stand strong, too. But J.B. has done a good job of writing this story in a way that is neither inappropriate or beyond the pale of acceptable, and does so with characters that are likable and funny, and a storyline that rolls right along, drawing you right in.

WHAT IF IT’S RIGHT is a book that, happily, lived up to my expectations, and made for a mostly lighthearted and sexy, sometimes emotional, read. It’s an easy 4 stars for me, and I look forward to reading more books by J.B. Heller in future.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

Author Bio

JB Heller is an average Aussie housewife in her late 20’s with a wicked sexy imagination. She and her super sexy husband are the parents of three minions, two Great Danes and a Cat who thinks she’s a person.

She spends her days running around after her wildling children and jotting down stories in her flower embossed leather notebook (She is very particular about her stationary.). She’s a self-confessed Stationary Junky who’s constantly on the lookout for more.

Most day’s JB can be found glued to her laptop, taking advantage of school hours- writing as fast as she can while she can. Or trolling Pinterest for her next potential muse. And when she needs a break from the voices in her head she indulges in her favourite past time, reading.

Want to know more about JB? Check her out, you’ll be guaranteed a good laugh if nothing else.

Author Links
WEBSITE
AMAZON
FACEBOOK

 

Giveaway
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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Downed by Jen Frederick – Gridiron Series – Book 3

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Downed

Gridiron Series – Book 3

By Jen Frederick

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK / Amazon CA 

Synopsis

He’s the guy no one likes…

Despite winning two national championships, JR “Ace” Anderson was sent packing from his old school after losing the trust of his coach. At Southern U, he has a second chance to prove that his college legacy isn’t endless debauchery and selfishness. But his reputation precedes him, and his teammates offer a chilly welcome in the locker room. The one person who is willing to accept him is the very woman he should stay away from—his new coach’s daughter.

She’s the girl everyone loves…

Bryant Johnson’s only goal in life is to make others happy, even at her own expense. One look at her father’s new star quarterback, and she knows that Ace is her next project. With a reputation for being a “jerk whisperer”, Bryant has spent her last three years at college reforming sorry behavior and turning bad boys into the best boyfriends ever. In Ace, though, she’s met with surly resistance and a sizzling attraction she doesn’t expect. Fixing this wounded warrior will be her biggest challenge yet. Not falling for him will be even harder.

Between her big heart and his damaged one, a battle is ensuing. In this game of love, every defense will crumble.

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5Star+

Michel’s Review

Downed by Jen Frederick is the book fans of the Gridiron series have been waiting for.  JR “Ace” Anderson has been a prominent player in the first two books of the Gridiron series.  He’s one of those characters that readers either hate or love, depending upon the situation at hand.  The one thing that stands out is no one really knows who Ace really is.  He doesn’t allow anyone close enough to see below the surface.  His choices seem self serving at most times, but they are not for the assumed reasons readers are led to believe.  Readers got to see a vulnerable side to Ace in Jockblocked and they also got to see his egotistical side in full mode.

Ace Anderson was run out of his old school, Western U.  It wasn’t because of his performance as a quarterback on the field.  He delivered two championships for the team. It was because the coach hated him with a passion for dating his daughter.  It didn’t matter that his daughter was a willing participant or that she was just as wild as Ace.  Ace committed the worst sin a player could commit.  The coach’s vendetta not only hurt Ace’s pride but also his potential for playing his senior year of college.  Ace was being forced to give up his position as quarterback to a future freshman hotshot for another offensive position or sit the bench.  This vendetta not only cost him the respect of his teammates but also added to the divide with his best friend Lucy Washington.  The only choice he could make was transferring to Southern U for his senior year of college.

New beginnings aren’t always what they are cracked up to be.  He is having trouble bonding with his new team. On the field they are a solid unit but off the field he is the odd man out.  They have heard the rumors of his past experiences. They are going to make him earn their respect.  Ace is going to have to change his ways if he wants to become a true member of the team.  Bryant Johnson knows a project when she sees one.  Ace Anderson needs her help and he needs it fast if they are going to become a championship team.

Bryant Johnson is the coach’s daughter.  A big red flag for Ace Anderson.  His past experiences have left him charred.  Here at Southern U attitudes are quite different.  His teammates and his coach are encouraging him to date Bryant.

Bryant is known for her dating projects.  Her objective to make her boyfriends better men. She prepares them to be better boyfriends, better teammates, and better individuals.  After she fixes her project she moves onto the next one.  Ace Anderson is proving to be much more difficult than she thought.  Her intentions for Ace are changing as she gets to know the man beneath the surface.  He still needs a lot of work but he is a keeper.

Bryant is known for her generous heart and selfless giving.  She takes care of others.  Who takes care of her? Ace sees the vulnerable woman beneath the shiny surface.  That’s the woman that has his heart.  This time he wants to win the girl’s heart.  He wants to take care of her and share his life.

Jen Frederick scored big with Downed.  This book was a true game changer for Ace Anderson.  Ace won more than his third college championship.  He won my heart.

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Author Bio:

 

jen frederick bioJen Frederick lives with her husband, child, and one rambunctious dog. She’s been reading stories all her life but never imagined writing one of her own. Jen loves to hear from readers so drop her a line at jensfrederick@gmail.com

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

 

 

 

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New Release + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Fire In You by Jennifer L. Armentrout writing as J. Lynn- Wait For You Series – Book 6

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Some are born with fire in them.

✮✮✮SECOND CHANCES, HOPE, &RED-HOT CHEMISTRY…FIRE IN YOU, the final book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Wait For You World is here! Don’t Miss Brock and Jillian’s passionate and richly moving story in this standalone contemporary romance! And check out each stop on the FIRE IN YOU Review & Excerpt Tour taking place November 29-December 10!✮✮✮

Let the FIRE IN YOU burn and grab your copy today!

 

 

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About FIRE IN YOU:

From the # 1 New York Times and International bestselling author comes a richly moving story about heartbreak and guilt, second chances and hope. Full of familiar, fan-favorite characters and no two people more deserving of a happy ending, Fire In You will burn bright beyond the last page…

Jillian Lima’s whole world was destroyed in a span of a few hours. The same night her childhood love, Brock ‘the Beast’ Mitchell, broke her heart, her life was irrevocably altered by the hand of a stranger with a gun. It takes six years to slowly glue together the shattered pieces of her life, but Jillian is finally ready to stop existing in a past full of pain and regret. She takes a job at her father’s martial arts Academy and she’s going out on her first date since a failed relationship that was more yuck than yum. Jillian is determined to start living.

She just never expected Brock to be a part of her life again. But he’s firmly back in her life before she knows it, and not only is he older, he’s impossibly more handsome, more teasing and more everything. And when he sees Jillian, he’s no longer capable of thinking of her as the little girl who was his shadow growing up or the daughter of the man who gave him a second chance at life. He sees the woman who’d always been there for him, the one person who believed in him no matter what.

Brock knows she’s the one he should’ve made his, and what begins as a tentative friendship quickly turns to red-hot chemistry that sparks a flame that burns brighter than lust. Falling for Brock again risks more than her heart, because when the sorrow-filled and guilt-ridden past resurfaces, and a web of lies threatens to rip them apart, the fallout could lay waste to everything they’ve fought to build together, and destroy the dreams of those they care most about.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

 

 

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Excerpt

Brock dropped his hand and walked inside, his head turning as his gaze swept over me. I closed the door.

“Nice socks,” he commented. “You know, it’s like you’re recognizing two seasons right now—summer and winter.”

I glanced down at myself. Oh crap! I’d forgotten I was wearing cotton sleep shorts paired with knee-high socks. And these were short shorts. Grateful that I was wearing a long cardigan over the shirt, I self-consciously tugged on the hem of my shorts while he looked around the apartment. I saw he had a little brown bag dangling from his fingertips.

“So,” I said, fiddling with the sleeves on my cardigan, “what did you bring me?”

“Oh, so now you’re curious about what’s in the bag?”

Crossing my arms, I stared at him while I hoped it wasn’t obvious that I wasn’t wearing a bra, because I could feel my nipples pressing against the shirt I wore.

Brock chuckled as he lifted the bag and reached inside, pulling out a small white carton. He then turned, spying the small kitchen. “So, how long have you lived here?”

“Um, I don’t know.” I watched him walk over to the island and place the carton and bag on it. “I think I moved in here about four years ago.”

“Nice place.” His gaze strayed to the stack of books on the other end of the island, and a fond smile appeared as he started to open the carton. “It’s safe here?”

“Yeah. There have never been any problems here.” I crept closer. “Most of the people who live here are married or work in D.C and commute.” My gaze dropped to his back. Did he ever get the large phoenix tattoo colored and filled in? I bet he did and it looked amazing. Then again, his back with all those ropey muscles always looked amazing. “So, where…where do you live now?”

“I bought a house outside of Shepherdstown,” he told me. “Got an amazing view of the river. You need to see it.”

I stopped walking, thinking his fiancée might not be too keen on that. Then again, I doubted she would see me as a threat.

Brock turned sideways, sliding the carton toward where I stood. I glanced over, and I stopped thinking when I saw what he’d brought.

“Glazed doughnuts,” Brock said. “Just glazed. Nothing weird hidden inside them. I know how much you used to hate biting into something and having no idea it’s filled with cream or fruit. They’re fresh, too. Picked them up at the bakery in Shepherdstown that makes them all day.”

I did hate biting into any food and having something unexpectedly squirt into my mouth. It was freaking gross, but I wasn’t focused on that aversion.

Sitting atop wax paper really were large glazed doughnuts.

It was so simple. Just glazed doughnuts. Nothing fancy or spectacular. But he remembered, and I didn’t know why that meant anything to me. I was sure serial killers remembered things about their victims, but I felt some of the tension easing out of my stiff muscles as I blinked back sudden hot tears.

Gah, I was so over-emotional. It was just doughnuts. “Thank you.” I cleared my throat. “That’s really nice.”

His gaze flew to mine, and I hastily lowered my chin, walking past him into the kitchen. “Jillian—”

“You’re eating one if I am,” I said, snatching several sheets off the paper-towel roll. God, I was such a damn mess, but I…I missed this—missed having someone in my life who knew me inside and out, because no one, no one knew me like Brock had. I turned around only when I was sure I didn’t look like I was seconds from exploding into tears, and went to the island, placing the towels on the counter. “I mean, I’m not going to eat three gigantic doughnuts.”

“Since when?”

A strangled laugh escaped me. “Well, I’m not seventeen anymore.”

“I can see that.”

A fine shiver coursed over my skin as I looked up. There was an intense, almost predatory glint to his stare, one I didn’t understand. And it suddenly struck me, really hit me, that after six years, Brock Mitchell was standing in my apartment, in my world, and I would never in a hundred years have expected this.

But there he was, larger than life itself, turning what was a roomy apartment into something that now felt entirely too small. He was one hundred percent grown man who was not just breathtaking to behold, but a walking legend in the world of mixed martial arts. More than that, though, he was a man who overcame such a terrible childhood, beating statistics and naysayers. Demolishing everyone’s doubt as he rose through the ranks, suffering a career-threatening injury to come back and win it all, over and over.

Brock had fire in him.

He always had.

 

TRAILER: https://youtu.be/fDn7F_mJuok

5Star+

Michel’s Review

The Wait For You Series by Jennifer L. Armentrout ( aka J. Lynn) is one of my favorite new adult romance series.  Each book has a very unique story with dynamic characters that are ordinary people dealing with life.  This series takes the reader on the journey of real life.  The journey starts in college and progresses into their adult lives establishing careers and families.  Each book features a different couple in different phases of life dealing with different situations.  All the characters are tied together through family and friendships.  The reader not only gets to experience the featured couples lives but also gets more of the couples featured in previous books.  That also includes the precious pet turtles from their college days.  Every time I open a new book in the Wait For You series it’s like attending a reunion.

Fire In You was an even more special reading experience for me because of some of the content.  A few years ago I attended a J. R. Ward release event in Cincinnati for the latest Black Dagger Brotherhood novel.  These release events have become a yearly ritual for me and my girls.  It’s our girls weekend, our escape from the world.  This particular event was even more special than the ones before because Laura Kaye and Jennifer Armentrout attended the event and sat right near us.  Talk about a fan girl dream come true.  I met two of my favorite authors in a more intimate setting.  Afterwards our group of girls went to dinner with Laura and Jennifer.  I was lucky enough to sit at the same table with these lovely ladies and get to know them personally.  As I read the Fire In You, there were many moments from that day and those conversations that came to life in Jillian’s personality.  She is a side a Jennifer coming to life on the pages.  I love her just as much as I do Jennifer.

Jillian LIma and Brock “the Beast” Mitchell have a long history.  Jillian’s family embraced Brock as their own when he was a young troubled boy.  Jillian developed an unrequited crush on Brock.  As the years progressed and they grew into adults, their friendship became deeply bonded until one night changed it all and made them strangers.

Jillian had finally gained the courage to tell Brock how she felt about him.  Brock was oblivious to Jillian’s feelings.  They were supposed to have a dinner date but Brock changed the plan.  Instead of going to dinner, they went to a bar.  Brock more or less ignored Jillian and flirted with another woman, who later became his fiance.  Rather than suffer more humiliation, Jillian left the bar alone.  In the parking lot she was held up and shot.  That night changed both of their lives and severed their friendship.

Six years later Jillian is still struggling with the aftermath of that night.  She still carries both mental and physical scars from that night.  Those scars have kept her from living her life.  She has chosen to hide away in a non descript office job, a limited social life, and a non existent love life.  She hides away in her apartment with her cat and her books.  After six years she is ready to start living her life once again.  The first step is take her place in the family business and become a manager of one of their gyms.  The second step is to begin socializing with her friends more.  The third step is to begin dating again.  It’s time for Jillian to live her life.

Brock Mitchell once again throws another hitch in Jillian’s life.  After six years, he’s back. He’s her new boss at the gym.  He’s interfering with her dating life.  He’s inserting himself in her social life and becoming a part of her social circle.  He’s determined to rebuild their friendship, but this time he wants more.  He wants her love, the love he carelessly threw away.

This time around Jillian gets to make the choices.  She has gotten over the starry eyed crush she once had.  She gets to choose what kind of relationship she has with Brock.

Jennifer Armentrout once again delivered an emotional story that kept me glued to the pages.  It was truly an amazing reading experience.

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author-photo-jla_j-lynnAbout Jennifer L. Armentrout:

# 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. She spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV. Jennifer has won numerous awards, including the 2013 Reviewers Choice Award for Wait for You, the 2015 Editor’s Pick for Fall With Me, and the 2014/2015 Moerser-Jugendbuch- Jury award for Obsidian. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA.

She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

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New Holiday Release + Review: Christmas Candy by Celia Aaron

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Christmas Candy
A Holiday Romance Novella
By Celia Aaron
 
 
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Synopsis 
A Christmas novella where everyone gets their just desserts.
Olive had a major crush on Hank in high school. She was the too-smart, slightly chubby girl who gawked as Hank ran track and made all the cheerleaders swoon. After high school, the two went their separate ways. Olive opened a yoga studio and swore off sweets while Hank traveled the world. No problem, right? At least there wasn’t a problem until Hank moved back to town and opened a candy shop across the street from Olive’s studio. Now, Olive will do everything she can to shut her old crush down. But Hank has other plans, and all of them end with an Olive sundae.
Author’s Note: Christmas Candy ends at 25%. As a special holiday treat, The Hard and Dirty Holidays (a set that includes A Stepbrother for Christmas, Bad Boy Valentine, Bad Boy Valentine Wedding, and F*ck of the Irish) is included at the end of this sweet tale for a limited time. Happy Holidays from Celia Aaron! 
 
 
 
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“Can you call that number again, dear?” Mrs. Carmichael adjusts her enormous bifocals. “I couldn’t hear it over my cats. They meow something terrible when they’re hungry.”
I glance around at the cat-free common room. “Sure. I-14.”

 

“Thank you.” She stares at her upside down bingo card.

 

“I wanted to ask you something last night, but I couldn’t quite work up the nerve.” His fingers linger against mine again as he hands me the next ball.

 

“What?” My voice comes out breathy as I call out the number. We should have had a bingo by now, but I’ve learned everything takes a little longer at the senior center.

 

 

He leans over, his warm breath tickling my ear. “I was wondering what your favorite candy is.”

 

 

Goosebumps break out along my neck and arms as I snatch the ball from his hands and announce the next number.

 

 

“I don’t like candy.” I glance at him. He’s watching me, eating me up with his eyes. Problem is, I can’t say the sensation is unpleasant. Quite the opposite.
“Come on. Everyone likes candy.”

 

 

“I don’t.” His nearness is throwing me off, and I stutter out the next number.

 

“You sure? I saw the way you looked at my candy apple.”

 

 

I huff out a breath. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

 

 

He moves closer, our arms touching. “Don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone.” His conciliatory whisper has my heart stutter-stepping. “You look beautiful, by the way.”

 

 

I can’t focus on the numbers, not when he’s winding me up like a clock. It doesn’t help that this is the most distracted I’ve been over a man since … Since senior year when I stared at him running track instead of doing my homework. I’ve fallen into the same hole with the same guy, and I can’t seem to get myself free.

 

 

“Candy apples.” I keep my voice low.

 

 

“What?” God, his voice in my ear sends shivers shooting down my spine.

 

 

“I like candy apples the best.”

 

 

“I’d like to see you eat one of my candy apples. Extra caramel for you.” He hands me the next ball, his index finger skating along mine. “Something sweet on your tongue.”

 

 

My body goes up in flames as our eyes meet, and I call out, “O-69.”

 

 

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3.5Holiday
Michel’s Review
Nothing is sweeter than Christmas Candy.  This was the perfect title for this Christmas novella by Celia Aaron.  A red hot sexy candy maker serving up sinfully decadent delights to a driven and disciplined Yoga master.  They are burning up the calories, finding their zen, and making new holiday traditions.  First they have to battle insecurities, competitive business practices, and old high school misconceptions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this holiday treat.  It was a novella packed with everything readers expect in the romance genre.
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Celia Aaron is the self-publishing pseudonym of a published romance and erotica author. She loves to write stories with hot heroes and heroines that are twisty and often dark. Thanks for reading.
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