Posts Tagged ‘contemporary romance’



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La Bella Luna

by Nicole Sharp

 

Publication date: March 19th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Can you really reject a surprise last-minute, all-expense paid trip to Italy from your sister? For Diana, a sensible CPA in Atlanta, you most certainly can.

But within the last week, Diana turned forty-five, got engaged, purchased a wedding cake and agreed to join her fiancé in another state where his current work project has been extended for several months.

Diana’s younger sister, Harper, uses these uncharacteristic life changes as proof that Diana definitely can meet her in Italy. Besides, Harper’s already cleared the trip with Diana’s boss and fiancé. So begrudgingly, Diana agrees to go.

Little did she know that her whole world would be turned upside down the second she stepped foot on Italian soil.

As Diana falls deeper into Italy’s culture, countryside and cuisine, she reconnects with the ghosts of her past and reignites passions she thought had long been extinguished – proving that life and love are full of phases.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Navigating the tight space, Diana found a small table in the back of the café, where she could see people exiting into the arrival area.

She wasn’t sure where the thought or even the motivation came from, but she pulled out her phone, chose the camera app, held up the cup and took a selfie.

She carefully put the cup down and looked at the picture; actually thought about deleting it, but then on a whim, posted it to her account that Harper insisted she needed to set up for this trip. And why the hell not?

“Pisa, Italy. First espresso,” she wrote and posted the picture.

She took a few sips, closing her eyes to savor the bitter hot loveliness.

Finally, a message from Harper came in, demanding Diana call her right away. This was why she’d activated an international calling plan for her phone.

Diana excitedly grinned when Harper picked up on the first ring and exclaimed. “You must be nearby!”

“Well …” Harper drew out the word, “Lu, you have the itinerary, right?”

“Yes, I printed it off before I left and it’s on my phone. Where are you?”

“Happy engagement!” Harper sang.

“Harper …” Diana laughed and looked around the part of the airport she could see, as if her younger sister would appear at any moment.

“Look, if I told you the truth you wouldn’t have gone, and you needed to go; Hell, if anyone needs a vacation it’s you.”

“Harper,” Diana’s heart began to thump wildly in her chest, “where are you?”

In almost a whisper, Harper answered, “New York.”

Diana turned so no one could see her anger. She cupped a hand over the receiver of her phone. “What the hell do you mean you’re in New York?”

“I couldn’t afford to pay for both of us. But I wanted you to have something different … I wanted to get you out of the house before you got married. I wanted you to see … more, something bigger, something inspiring before you got married.”

“Harper,” Diana choked out in disbelief.

“I wanted to get you out of your fucking comfort zone,” Harper admitted, with all the loving passion she could.

Diana was certainly out of her comfort zone now, that was for sure, and she’d be damned if she was going to stay in a foreign country by herself. “I’m not staying here alone,” she hissed. “You got me into this Harper, you need to get me a return ticket and get me out of this. Now.”

“No.”

“Then I need to go, I need to figure out how to get home.”

“No. Please. You have ten days paid vacation in Italy. Do you know how many people dream of something like that?”

“Harper.” Diana’s throat was closing with the urge to cry.

“Luna, if you can’t figure out how to do this for yourself, then do this for me.“ Harper’s voice hitched with the same emotion. “Please Lu, you deserve something like this. You deserve to see something beautiful. You deserve to … sit in a Piazza in a world-famous café and sip an espresso. You deserve to be moved to tears by a painting.“ It was Harper who was crying now. “Jesus, Diana, you deserve to stand in the middle of Rome and be inspired. I understand this is the scariest thing anyone has ever asked you to do, I get that it’s a scary ass thing that I am asking you to do, but please … please, if you can’t do this for yourself, then do it for me.”

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About Author Nicole Sharp:

Legend has it that Nicole Sharp was born to hippies during an ice storm in Stone Mountain, Georgia. While confirmation of said events cannot be agreed upon, one fact is for certain, it was a Tuesday.

By age twelve, Nicole was sure of two things: 1) She wanted to be a writer and 2) She wanted to travel. She begged her parents to allow her to voyage alone to exotic lands. They permitted her to go from California to Boise, Idaho to visit a great-grandmother.

After muddling through the college years, Nicole graduated with a Bachelors in History (think Greeks and Romans). Why didn’t she major in English if she wanted to be a writer? There were better stories in history class.

Nicole is Italian. According to Ancestry.com it’s a rather low percentage, but she feels that she is at least 51% Italian. When she returned to the homeland, she fell in love with the Italian cappuccino, so much so that she studied the language until she was fluent; thus she could order the magical elixir herself: Posso avere un cappuccino, per favore!

Nicole’s first concert was to see the bluegrass group The Seldom Scene when she was a fifteen-year-old, thanks to her parent’s bluegrass phase. However, she never admits it, and instead tells everyone that They Might Be Giants, whom she saw in college, was her real first concert.

Her first car was a yellow Chevy Celebrity and her favorite job was working as a docent in a museum in an old mining town in Colorado. She has written extensively about both.

Visit NicoleSharpWrites.com for more entertainment.

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The legacy continues….

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Relentless

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Death Dwellers MC Legacy Generation Book 3

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by Kathryn C. Kelly

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Genre: Contemporary MC Romance

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In the gripping sequel to “Restless,” Christopher “Outlaw” Caldwell’s transformation into a devoted family man is put to the ultimate test. Once feared for his ruthlessness, he finds himself drifting further away from his notorious MC leader persona as he navigates the aftermath of his youngest child’s turbulent entrance into the world.

As Jo experiences a new set of challenges, he only spirals further, affecting everyone around him. Most especially his wife, Megan, who struggles to traverse her grief as she enters a new stage in her life while dealing with a hard-headed bully.

Amidst this chaos, CJ, Outlaw and Meggie’s son, struggles to hold everything together as his parents falter. He has a hard time recognizing his developing feelings for a girl who isn’t Harley Banks, causing further complications in his already tumultuous life.
Meanwhile, Bash still lurks, and as his reign of terror continues, the kids of the MC learn what it means to be a Death Dweller.

In this gritty and emotionally charged sequel, “Relentless” delves deeper into the complexities of family, loyalty, and the harsh realities of life within the MC world. Will Outlaw’s transformation be enough to protect those he loves, or will the past catch up with him, threatening to tear everything apart?

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Restless

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Death Dwellers MC Legacy Generation Book 2

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In the gripping second installment of the Death Dweller MC’s Legacy Series, “Restless,” CJ Caldwell finds

himself facing more challenges and heartbreak than ever before. Still grappling with a devastating family

tragedy, CJ is now also dealing with the fractured relationship between him and his once-best friend,

Harley. Her erratic behavior has not only destroyed their friendship, but it also threatens to unravel other

important relationships in CJ’s life.

 

As CJ’s parents struggle with their own personal issues, the weight of responsibility falls heavily on CJ’s young shoulders. He must step up and take care of his siblings while navigating the complex dynamics of a broken family. But little does he know, danger lurks in the shadows, ready to pounce when he least expects it.

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Reckless

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Death Dwellers MC Legacy Generation Book 1

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Sixteen-year-old CJ Caldwell struggles to live up to the reputation of his legendary father, Outlaw. He

dreams of joining the Death Dwellers, but he’s expected to finish high school and go to college before he

can even be considered.

 

To make matters worse, the only girl he wants, Harley Banks, has rejected him, breaking his heart. Little does he know, she’s breaking her own heart too. CJ must navigate the challenges of becoming a man, coping with heartbreak, and saving his cousin Ryan from dangerous influences.

In this gripping coming-of-age tale, CJ learns that being reckless can have serious consequences, and that sometimes, the hardest thing to do is the right thing.

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Christopher headed to the bathroom, regretting he couldn’t enjoy The Work Song by Hozier. It piped into the bathroom too, but he wasn’t sure how much time he had to clean up before Megan returned. He refused to waste even a minute to return to the bedroom and turn the volume up.

A few minutes into the steaming hot water raining over his head and chest and washing away his first round of soap, arms wrapped around his waist and a small, soft body pressed into his back.

He stilled and squeezed his eyes shut, his entire being suddenly sizzling. For days, he’d been afraid to even imagine feeling her touch. No matter what, they always found their way back into each other’s arms and resumed their very healthy sex life.

But for a brief moment in time, his world had collapsed. Megan’s chances of survival had been slim, and he’d believed their daughter dead.

“Christopher,” Megan said, placing tiny kisses along his back and setting his blood on fire. Her little hand wrapped around his big dick, and he jerked, on the verge of coming.

Instead, he twisted around, dislodging her fingers, and lifted her into his arms, slanting his mouth over hers, sliding his tongue between her lips.

“Christopher,” she breathed again, threading her fingers through his hair, as ravenous for his kisses as he was for hers.

Their lips met softly, then crashed together hungrily, varying between soft and tender to deep and fervent in an endless loop of love, desire, and tenderness.

Time stood still, but warmth and excitement flooded him, awakening every nerve ending and igniting a spark that exposed his soul and exploded in his brain.

The world, the bullshit, the fear and trauma of the last few weeks, faded into nothingness. All that mattered was her, them, and the solace and affirmation he found in her arms.

He adored her, and he would unto eternity, beyond his dying breath.

“I love you, Megan,” he said hoarsely. “You my everything, baby.”

She thumbed his lips, offering him a soft, sweet smile. “And I worship you, Christopher. Without you, my life has no meaning. I don’t know how to begin to show you my gratitude for being a wonderful husband and an amazing father. You’re the best of the best, and the day I met you was the luckiest day of my life.”

He kissed her again, his heart beating in harmony with hers. “I ain’t too sure where I’d be without you. You keep me on my fuckin’ toes. You stormed into my life, and I knew if I didn’t change for you, I would lose you. You changed me and my entire world.”

Sadness touched her gorgeous face and her lips trembled.

“What, baby?”

“Nothing,” she said quietly, then pasted a smile on her face, leaned forward and kissed him again. “I love you.”

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A Shocking Death: Kaleb Paul Andrew

WARNING: Contains spoilers

 

Because I didn’t expect to write any books beyond Misled, I never anticipated what might happen to the characters who survived until the end. To me, they rode off into the sunset and lived happily ever after.

When I decided to extend the Death Dweller world beyond that one book, ideas began to form about other characters. When the heroine’s mother was introduced at the end of Misled (book one), the idea that she might find her own Prince Charming didn’t occur to me. However, when she ran across Kaleb Paul Andrews, K-P, I was tickled pink. Not only could she find someone, but I would have an older hero and heroine. At the end of Misappropriate (book two), I began a rough outline for the upcoming books in the series and announced the heroes and heroines for each.

Then. Tragedy.

Book three.

Misunderstood.

Even as the miserably violent Logan Donovan haunted my story, I didn’t expect the outcome. When K-P turned up missing, leaving Dinah alone and exposed, I didn’t anticipate his fate.

At this point, dear reader, you might be thinking that I, as the writer, controlled the arc of the story and the destiny of the characters. Perhaps, if I was a plotter, I would agreed. But I am a pantser. I fly by the seat of my pants and use my brain as a conduit for their stories. It is weird and strange. Yet, it is the truth. So, when the words announcing K-P’s death flew from my brain to my fingers and onto the screen, I stopped and stared, absolutely horrified.

Gone was the hell he’d give his daughter’s love interest. Gone was Dinah’s chance at happiness. And, gone was one of the more honorable characters from the off-page generation of Death Dwellers.

Even now, with ten years separating me from writing the original book and my plans to rewrite some parts of it as I did Misled and Misappropriate, I wish things were different. One of the best things about the Bridge Series is that I get to explore K-P’s backstory during the interludes. I wish he and I had made different choices. I wish it wasn’t canon that Logan perished in the original series so he would’ve been done away with in one of the interludes.

K-P is one of the few characters that I got rid of that I truly mourned. His death remains shocking.

So, I ask you: if you’re a writer, can you identify with me? If you’re a reader, what character death in a book you’ve read has shocked you the most?

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In her dreams, Kathryn C. Kelly is a flirtatious biker babe with the rumble of a hog between her legs and a

shirtless bad boy wrapped in her arms. Kathryn and her bad ass biker boy spend their evenings tossing

back great scotch (Chivas Regal) and fighting over who is better at Cards against Humanity (she is,

obviously.)


In her reality, Kathryn is a native New Orleanian who has survived Hurricane Katrina and breast


cancer. Now she’s hoping to survive three lively girls. While not playing Wonder Mom, Kathryn can be

found putting all those dreams into the pages of her next Death Dwellers Motorcycle Club novel.

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A Blessing and a Curse

by Anna Campbell

 

Publication date: October 31st 2023
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Blessing Savage barely remembers who she was before the unexpected death of her father, Pastor Savage. These days she clings desperately to the party girl persona she’s created for her second year of college, living with a new group of friends, joining their sorority, and partying non-stop. There’s only one thing that can kill her perpetual buzz, and his name is Camden Holbrook, the boy she’s pined for for nearly a decade.

Camden credits Blessing’s father for saving him when he was a child, giving him a place to stay when his mother abandoned him and setting him back on the right track. So when Pastor Savage asked a promise of Camden before dying – to look out for Blessing – he made a vow and meant it. Protecting Blessing has always come easily. Loving her has not. Not for someone who’s learned time and time again that love and loss are intricately interwoven.

After years of Camden keeping her at arm’s length, the last thing Blessing wants is him barging into her life. But new Blessing refuses to let Cam play knight-in-shining-armor, not when she knows – from one starry summer’s night slip-up – how he really feels about her. This time around, Blessing’s intent on pushing Camden’s limits, and she’s got some sexy new tricks up her sleeve to take him past them. Then maybe he’ll admit the truth of his feelings. Maybe the person who’s always known her best can help her find a way back to herself. Maybe she can prove to Camden that love doesn’t always destroy a person. Sometimes, it’s the only thing that can start putting them back together.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Homecoming (Now)

 

We follow her lead through the throng of people and around one large, chunky pile of pink-tinted vomit – eww – back toward the legitimate Homecoming festivities. We’re walking away from the tents, and suddenly Campbell is running toward them, eyes flashing with mischief, waving at us.

“Oh hey, girls!” she calls. “Look who I found at the game!”

The crowd parts, and I stop in my tracks.

So much for Camden not being at Homecoming.

There he stands, looking like a member of the student body, in sneakers, jeans, and a hoodie, except, of course, way hotter. There’s another guy with him – shorter, with red hair, eyes looking like they’re about to pop out of his head as the scores of scantily clad sorority girls walk past, occasionally bumping into him.

Camden looks me over from head to toe, my braided pigtails tied with red ribbons, the school shirt that’s been cut and tied so it sticks to my torso like body paint, the tiny shorts. His eyes flash with something – disapproval, frustration, want… maybe all of the above. Maybe none of the above. Then he forces his eyes away from me, though I see them jumping, trying to betray him and return.

Bella squeals. “Camden! Yay! What are you doing here?”

Campbell winds her arm around his bicep. I stare at it – it reminds me of a snake – and I really, really don’t like it there. “So I went back inside to get a slice of pizza, and guess who was right in front of me in line? I told him he had to come back with me, that that’s where the real party is.” She points to the other kid. “This is his friend. Jace, right?”

Jace nods like a happy puppy.

Camden clears this throat. “Couple of the other guys we work with are here, too.” He glances back toward the stadium. “The guy we’re working for gave us the tickets. I mean, obviously we don’t go here, but everyone said it was going to be a good game.” He carefully extracts his arm from Campbell’s grasp and stares at the ground.

I follow suit, feeling like a horrible person.

Remembering what I’d said to him when I discovered him working on campus, about how he didn’t really belong there. Now he feels the need to explain his presence, like he’s embarrassed about being at Homecoming. And suddenly, more than anything, I want to be the girl who gave him the Nike bag again, the girl who assured him of his worth rather than stripped him of it.

Campbell’s damn voice interrupts my thoughts. “Camden said he used to play football.”

Bella chews her lower lip and narrows her eyes. “I’ll bet. You lookin’ for a wide receiver these days, Camden?”

I look away, biting my cheek to keep from laughing. These girls are shameless. Good thing Camden’s well-versed in girls throwing themselves at him. I stop feeling bad for him. He can handle himself.

“Oh my gawd,” Alyssa shoves Bella. “Anyway, party’s over for us. We have to meet Maggie.” She pushes onto the balls of her toes. “We’re all going to get tattoos!” she tells Campbell.

I wince, anticipating the reaction before I even see it, or hear it.

And yup, there it is. Camden, suddenly right in front of me like a member of the King’s Guard, blocking our collective path. “Umm, Blessing’s not getting a tattoo.”

I snort. Because 1) Camden just told everyone what I was or wasn’t going to do and 2) he talked about me in the third person, like I wasn’t standing right there.

And suddenly? That girl who was caught between old Blessing and new Blessing? Jumps straight over to Team New Blessing.

My hands go to my hips. I toss my pigtails. “Yes, I am.”

“No, I don’t think you are.”

“I don’t care what you think. You don’t have jurisdiction over my body.”

That one really lights a spark. His eyes flash, and he takes a step closer. “Party’s over is right. It’s all good fun when you want to take your shots, and make your quippy little comments, but you’re not running off and getting a tattoo right now.”

I stab my index finger into his chest, right over his heart, right where I imagine its location to be. My voice is low and ferocious. “Really? You think you can fucking etch my father’s words into your skin and stand there and tell me I can’t do the same?”

Campbell lets out a low whistle. Alyssa grabs Campbell’s arm and gives her a tug, pulling her a few feet away. Bella’s watching the exchange with wide eyes, but catches on to their movement and joins them. “Yeah, I’m gonna just…”

Cam lowers his head toward mine, maybe an attempt to keep this a private conversation, but it ends with our foreheads practically touching, his eyes a mix of furious and pleading. “How far are you going to take this, huh? You’re going to do permanent damage to yourself?”

I glance pointedly at his forearm, at his tattoo. “Is that what we’re calling it these days?”

“You know what I fucking mean. A year from now, two years, whatever, you’re going to be in a different place. Hopefully. And I’m just trying to stop you from making a decision you might wish you’d made differently then.”

“It’s a tattoo, Camden. I’m not selling my soul to the devil.” I take a step back. Cross my arms over my chest. “You can’t physically stop me. You won’t go that far.”

I dare you…

He looks at me for a long time, assessing. Then he steps back. “Okay.” He nods, slowly. Then he calls to Alyssa, eyes on me. “What studio are you going to?”

“Wizard’s World.”

Camden groans, mutters something under his breath like “of course you are.”

“I’d recommend Stone’s Throw.” He’s still watching my face. “Blessing’s made up her mind, and I feel better about the safety measures there.”

I’ve made up my mind?

Shit. I swallow hard, hoping he doesn’t notice.

“In fact…” Now Camden’s digging around in his pocket. “You’ve all been drinking. How are you getting there?”

“Uber,” Bella answers.

He extracts his keys from his pocket. Throws me a challenging smirk. “If everyone’s minds are made up… I’ll drive you myself.”

Fuck. My. Life.

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About Author Anna Campbell:

Spend more time with Anna Campbell and her stories on Instagram: @annacampbellstories

Anna Campbell has traditionally published several stories for teens over the years under a different pen name. Anna Campbell stories are mature YA/NA angsty stories about beatiful broken people who love hard and still believe in happy endings.

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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Their Shattered Hearts

by Angie Cole

 

 

 

(Cardinal Creek)
Publication date: March 1st 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

A story of love, loss, and redemption unfolds in the rustic charm of Cardinal Creek, Texas. Will Deluca, a stoic firefighter and ranch owner, bears the weight of his wife’s untimely demise. His world once filled with warmth, now echoes with the silent grief of his two children and the unyielding Texas plains.

Enter Anna Samuels, a heart that’s seen its share of sorrow. Leaving Missouri’s memories behind, she hopes to find solace and new beginnings in the small Texas town. As a dedicated palliative care nurse, she embarks on a mission to bring comfort to families grappling with illness. Destiny leads her to Rockin’ D Ranch, where her path crosses with Will, a man whose rugged charm and piercing blue eyes hide a world of pain.

Amidst the rolling hills of Cardinal Creek, Will and Anna find their lives intricately entwined, linked by a forgotten encounter from their youth. Anna’s arrival sparks a glimmer of hope in Will’s heart, inspiring him to fulfill a promise to his late wife: to create a sanctuary for children with autism. Together, they begin to weave dreams of a brighter future.

But shadows linger in the corners of their newfound happiness. Anna grapples with a dark secret that threatens to destroy the life she has built in Cardinal Creek. As Will confronts his own fears, he risks losing the one person who could help him heal. In the face of adversity, will they find the strength to conquer their demons and embrace a second chance at love?

In Their Shattered Hearts fate, passion, and dark secrets collide. Join Will and Anna as they journey through the complexities of the heart, learning that sometimes, the path to happiness is paved with the courage to face the ghosts of the past.

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CHARACTER QUOTES:

Will Deluca: “Every star in the Texas sky reminds me of what I’ve lost… and what I still hope to find.”

Anna Samuels: “Healing others is my calling, but healing my own heart? That’s a journey I didn’t expect to take.”

Will Deluca: “They say time heals all wounds, but here in Cardinal Creek, it’s love that does the healing.”

Anna Samuels: “In every patient’s smile, I see a piece of my grandfather’s legacy… and a part of my heart healing.”

Will Deluca: “I never thought I’d find love again. Turns out, it was waiting for me in the last place I expected.”

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About Author Angie Cole:

My journey as a romance author is deeply rooted in my personal experiences of love, loss, and resilience. The profound impact of the losses I have endured, including the passing of my grandparents and my parents, has shaped my perspective on life and love.

My own love story is one of healing and finding joy after heartache, and it mirrors the themes I explore in my novels.

As a survivor of grief and a believer in the power of love, I channel my experiences into crafting stories that resonate with the complexities and triumphs of the human heart. My writing is a testament to the idea that love can emerge from the most unexpected places, offering hope and healing. The one thing that can be learned from grief is that it’s a very personal experience and isn’t the same for every person.

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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Seven Perfect Days

by Francesca Vespa

 

Publication date: February 17th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

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Sometimes your friends break your heart the most.

Maggie Lomax dodged the most painful moment of her life, but her eccentric best friend Alexandra isn’t going to let her get away that easy. High School might finally be over, but they still need to clean up the mess left behind.

Things look grim, until Maggie meets Adam Moon, a handsome foreign student and sweet, kind soul who’s just as messed up as her. The only problem is he disappeared, and nobody knows what happened to him.

An unusual offer from an old school acquaintance to travel abroad may be a chance for Maggie to move on. New sights, new sounds and new adventures may be just what she needs, but the past has a way of catching up with her, and so does Alexandra. Maggie may find her guy, but it could be at the worst possible time.

This contemporary romantic black comedy travels the world, hopping islands, traversing continents, sailing oceans. It tells a big tale from small intimate ones. The story is set on the sails of courage, flying a flag to joy and friendship, heartbreak and love.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

It was my cousin who did it.

Well, kind of.

I mean, he really did it, but he’s not really my cousin. He’s actually my father’s cousin’s daughter’s husband; Zayn. I also have two other cousins called Zain, but they had nothing to do with it. Probably.

I was over at my uncle’s house, and I snuck out for a smoke. Big house, big garden, big dinner party, so nobody noticed. That’s where I saw Zayn in the library with the gun. I only saw it for a moment before he wrapped it up. I thought if a guy like that had a gun, he was definitely going to use it for something later on.

He didn’t see me, thank goodness. I probably should have said something to somebody, but who would listen to me? I am the Devil, after all, and Satan is the father of lies. The only person who talked to me was my brother, and if I said anything to that idiot, he’d probably be dead now. So yeah, I got out of town, and went on vacation.

That’s why it annoys me that I get the blame. If they were planning this whole thing then, how can I be the cause of all the trouble now?

The point is that you may be right when you say life can go real nuts sometimes.

 

About Author Francesca Vespa:

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Francesca Vespa studied linguistics. She is neurodivergent, lives in South Australia with two incredible children, as well as cat named Simon and a dog named Diesel. Seven Perfect Days is her debut novel.

 

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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One summer. Three separate love stories. And summer doesn’t last forever.

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Summer Stay

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Montana Beach Book 1

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by D. Allen

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Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

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Jessie moved back to picturesque Montana Beach after a heartbreaking split with her ex. She’s since thrown herself into her grandparent’s inn, which has been struggling financially thanks to the town having seen better days. With few options available, Jessie considers accepting a developer’s offer to buy Montana Manor, seeing it as a way to save her family’s legacy, until she learns that he wants to tear it down.

Meanwhile, Mason’s tired of working at his father’s advertising firm in New York City, although his father wants him to become his replacement. Unsure if that’s the course he wants his life to take, Mason escapes to Montana Beach and the only inn in town to consider the proposal. But after he meets Jessie, he seems to gain only another reason not to take up his father’s offer.

When Mason offers to help Jessie launch a campaign to save Montana Manor, the two quickly find themselves relying more and more on each other. But summer doesn’t last forever, and Mason’s stay is coming to an end.

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The best part of waking up at five in the morning is getting out on the beach for my run before the other joggers, walkers, or scavengers get out here and get in my way. Often times I don’t even play music, preferring instead to listen to the waves crash along the shore. It helps me relax and prepare for the day ahead of me. The only thing on my mind is the sand under my feet and my breathing as I run my usual two-mile stretch.

It’s not an easy run, that’s for sure. The traction I get in the sand is quite different from what I used to get on the treadmill when I lived in the city. But the extra exertion is what I need to make this precious time count. There aren’t any gyms in Montana Beach. There isn’t much of anything, really.

When I reach the end of the beach where it starts to get marshy, I see that the sun is sitting just on the horizon over the Atlantic Ocean. As I turn around to head back to Montana Manor, my long shadow stretches inland, interrupted only when I pass under the pier.

Grandma Ethel is sitting on the back patio with a cup of coffee watching the sunrise as I come up. I’m sweaty but energized.

“Enjoy your run, Jessie Girl?” she asks.

I nod. “The sunrise is really beautiful today.”

She smiles. “It always is.”

Knowing that I’m short on time, I tell Grandma, “I’ll be back down soon to help you with breakfast. Just going to run up and take a shower real quick.”

“Take your time, dear. I’m content right here.”

Racing up the steps to the attic apartment I share with her, I head straight for the bathroom and hop in the shower.

This is the same routine I do every day. Up with the sun, run on the beach, quick shower, and then start breakfast for the guests. It’s the same routine I’ve had for most of my life. My grandparents built Montana Manor when they first got married and have been running the small inn ever since.

It’s the only place for overnight accommodations in town since the Montana Motel closed down several years ago. Well, it’s the only one if you don’t count the many rental houses that sit throughout the small village now that a lot of the permanent residents have moved away.

Like Montana Beach, the Manor isn’t perfect. It could use a new roof, updated fixtures, and I’m sure the wiring isn’t up to code. But it’s home.

Braiding my wet hair, I make my way back down to the kitchen where Grandma is already frying up some eggs. I grab a pan, throw some bacon on it, and fire up the burner next to her.

“How many do we have this morning?” I ask.

“Only the Harmons. Janet said they’re early-risers, so I expect them to come down anytime now.”

“How long are they staying?”

“Until tomorrow night, although they still have to pay the rest of their bill. They mentioned something about paying today, but I told them they can wait until they check out, too.”

“Okay.” I wish Grandma wouldn’t tell people that. They’re our only guests and it’s the middle of June, which should be the start of our busy season, but we haven’t seen an uptick in guests yet. When I was a little girl the Manor used to be filled with guests from May into October. Now we’re lucky if we can fill up in July.

Grandma reaches around me to grab two plates and flips the eggs onto each of them with a spatula. “Now, if they do pay today, I want you to run to the bank to deposit some of it. The rest will have to go toward groceries.”

“Did we get another reservation?” I toss the bacon onto a plate and dab away as much of the grease as I can with a paper towel.

“One couple, yes. They’re arriving tomorrow. I think they may be honeymooners.”

“What makes you say that?” I ask.

Grandma picks the bacon from the paper towel and arranges it on the plate while I pop some bread in the toaster.

“Their reservation came through as the Newmans, but her credit card was under a different last name.”

“Then they probably are.”

There isn’t a lot to do in Montana Beach, but we still get a lot of honeymooners. I guess the quiet beach town is a lure to many newlyweds. Still, most of the guests we used to get are now more interested in the many activities up on North Beach, which is highly-commercialized nowadays.

The toaster pops and we hear footsteps on the stairs.

“I’ll get them started with drinks,” Grandma tells me. She pulls a pitcher and a Tupperware of fruit out of the fridge and sets it on a tray with two glasses. “Can you cut this up, please?”

“I’m on it.”

“Thank you, dear.”

When she disappears into the dining room to greet them, I pop open the Tupperware and start cutting the fresh pineapple and cantaloupe into cubes.

“They want to eat out on the patio,” Grandma tells me when she comes back in. She sets the plates on the now-empty tray.

“I can’t blame them.”

“Neither can I. Now hurry up with that fruit, dear, their food is getting cold.”

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Summer Job

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Montana Beach Book 2

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When Robyn was promoted to manager of the Montana Beach Pier amusement park, she helped save it from near extinction. But her employees are still having a hard time adjusting to her new leadership role. With her father gone and only a few friends in Montana Beach, the stress at work carries over to the rest of her life. That is, until her newest employee steps through the door.

Jaden’s just looking for a summer job until he can find something more stable in the fall. Montana Beach might be a slower pace than his hometown, but his new boss and the romance that sparks between them makes the sleepy little town exciting.

When a coworker discovers their relationship, he threatens to reveal their secret, which could put their jobs and the future of the Pier at risk.

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My alarm wakes me at six in the morning. It’s the first day of work this season at the Montana Beach Pier amusement park. Or just the Pier, as everyone calls it. I don’t have to be at work for another five hours, but I want to squeeze in some painting time before the day gets started.

With my eyes slits from the cruel bathroom light, I brush my teeth before hopping in the shower, readjusting to my familiar routine from last summer.

I wish I could say I’m excited about starting the season again. I mean, I guess I am, but that’s more to see the families stroll through the gates again. The kids are always so excited and they usually don’t know which ride to try first. And then, by the afternoon, they’re so hyped up on sugar and their parents are so drained from the sun that it makes for hilarious entertainment, even though I’m technically working.

But the door won’t open to guests for another week. In the meantime, my employees and I have to get everything up to snuff for opening day. Which means they’ll be cleaning up the rides after the maintenance guys check to make sure they’re running okay and I’ll be stuck in the office doing paperwork and getting our marketing materials together.

I step out of the shower, wrap a towel around myself, and walk into the second bedroom I use as part walk-in closet, part art studio. I don’t have too many clothes, but I do have more than the tiny closet in my bedroom would allow. Still, there’s enough space for my art supplies too. And all the paintings that are waiting to be sold. The perks of living alone, I guess. Anyway, I’m going to miss spending all day to paint the landscapes from around town, but I’ll squeeze in time to keep painting when I can.

As I pick out clothes to wear, I try to remember everything I have to do when I go in today. I made a couple trips to the Pier office last week to start getting some paperwork started. I also hired two new people: a cleaner and a concession person, bringing our total number of employees up to fifteen. Including me. Not a lot, but it works.

Actually, I have another interview today. If he seems sane enough, I think I’ll make him a ride operator. Out of the two other new employees, one is barely old enough to work, meaning I don’t feel comfortable putting him in charge of a ride for kids under ten, and the other doesn’t seem to even want a job, so I stuck her as a cleaner.

It seems mean, but that position is the easiest to make up for if we lose someone midseason. The guy I’m interviewing today might even spend half his shifts cleaning. We don’t have the budget to hire too many designated cleaners, so everyone has to chip in.

Once I’m showered and dressed, I return to the spare bedroom and really look at my work in progress. It’s starting to come together. I squeeze out some paint, dab in a brush, and get to work.

Usually I like to paint in the midst of my inspiration. Plein air, as it’s called in the art world. It helps me really get in touch with my surroundings, but since I don’t have a lot of time now that I’m working, I have to make do with a photo hanging on the wall above the canvas.

I work for a couple hours, filling out the canvas with more colors, bringing to life the sunrise scene that fills me with so many happy memories. Before I know it, it’s just after ten and I rush to clean up my paints in the bathroom sink that’s stained with colors from previous paintings; a work in progress itself.

Once I’m all cleaned up, I grab my bag and my keys and walk down to Atlantic Street, where there’s a tiny little coffee shop on the corner with First Street.

“You’re here early,” Nancy says from behind the counter. “Your usual?”

“Yes, please,” I respond. “It’s my first day back at the Pier.”

“Is it that time of year already?” She fills a to-go cup with a dark roast blend.

“Sure is. Creeps up faster each year.”

“And passes by just as quickly!” She chuckles, passing me my order. “Here you go, dear.”

I take the cup from her and hand her my card. “Maybe next year we’ll be able to expand the season a bit, but I still need to whip my employees into shape. I’ve got a few new ones this year.”

“I’m sure you’ll be able to, honey. I’ll have to bring my granddaughters down if I have time this year.”

“Oh yeah! That would be fun!” I take my card back and slip it in my wallet. Slinging my bag back on my shoulder, I head to the door. “Thanks, Nancy. Have a good day!”

“You too, dear!”

My assistant manager, Peggy, is already in the office when I get to work. She’s never early, so I must be a few minutes late. She has her feet up on the desk and is filing her nails while she snaps her gum.

“Sorry I’m late,” I mutter. She probably doesn’t care.

“Oh, you actually came back this year.”

“I just knew it would make your day.” I boot up the computer and take a sip of my coffee.

“I see you still haven’t found a real job,” she says.

“And neither have you,” I say as polite as I can.

This is our relationship each summer. Verbally jabbing each other under the veil of a joke. I think she might want me to quit, but it’s not like the owners would make her manager. They live up in North Beach and own several attractions up there. This tiny little pier all the way down in Montana Beach isn’t on their radar too much, but they’re still funding our operations, so that’s good. I can imagine the attractions up north are making a lot more money than we are, though.

If they’re forced to hire a new manager for the Pier, it might be easier for them to just close it. That’s where it was heading before I started. I trimmed the budget, beefed up policies, and started advertising to the right audience. In the three years that I’ve had the position, the annual number of visitors has gone up by thirty percent.

Of course, in the process of turning this place around, I had to lay a few people off, argue with the  remaining employees about my new policies, and took on the reputation of bitch. Collateral damage for saving a small town business.

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Summer Nights

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Montana Beach Book 3

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On the surface Adrian has it all: he’s the owner of the Nine—the only source of nightlife in Montana Beach—and he has his boyfriend Malcolm. The only problem is: Malcolm’s married. Although he promises to leave his wife, Adrian still wonders if he’ll always be “the other lover,” and whether that’s enough for him.

Tyler has watched his best friend pursue his relationship with a married man knowing that it won’t end well. He knows that he could treat Adrian better, but he’s never expressed his feelings to anyone, let alone Adrian.

After Adrian and Tyler share a special evening together, Tyler sees a future for them, but Adrian is still loyal to Malcolm.

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It’s nearly four in the morning, but the digital clock on the nightstand has my full attention. I watch as the blinking light counts each passing second, wondering how long I’ll get to lay here with Malcolm before he gets the phone call.

I pray that it doesn’t come. Every night I pray, but his phone inevitably rings. Even though I’m still wrapped in his arms, I can’t help but think about him leaving.

I suck in a shuddering breath and close my eyes. Maybe tonight my prayers will be answered and we’ll wake up in the morning together. This is the latest he’s stayed in a while. Usually he’s out the door shortly after we finish, which makes it nearly impossible to get to sleep.

That’s the worst part about loving him. The loneliness that follows his exit. He always tries to move quietly, telling me to go back to sleep when I get up to walk him out, but it’s no use. I’m always left feeling empty. Alone. Sad.

I focus on his steady breaths, letting it soothe me so I can fall asleep, but the sudden burst of his ringtone makes me jump. Malcolm stirs. He pulls away from me and reaches for his phone on the opposite nightstand.

I know the drill. Stay silent and still. He’s never come right out and told me to, but it’s kind of obvious that he wants privacy since he leaves the room every time it’s a phone call.

“Hello?” He says once he’s at the door.

I close my eyes and pretend that the call never came. That he’s still lying beside me. But his voice carries from the living room and I know this is really happening.

“I was tired, so I pulled over to take a nap.”

I stare at the clock again, watching more seconds pass by.

“I’m about forty minutes out,” he says.

It’s quiet. My heart races in fear that I was heard somehow.

“No, just tired,” he finally says. “Like I just said. Go back to sleep. I’ll be home soon.”

I close my eyes and try to think of something else to ease the heartache. I know what’s coming.

“Love you, too.”

It’s like a physical pain in my chest.

Malcolm comes back in when he’s off the phone and shakes me gently. “Hey, I have to get going.”

“Yeah, I heard,” I mutter. I keep my eyes on the clock. 3:52. That has to be a record.

“I’m sorry, babe, but I have to keep up appearances.” He rubs my arm. “At least for a little while longer.”

“I know.”

He pauses, then asks, “Remember what I promised you?”

I don’t say anything. It almost seems like it’ll never happen at this point.

“Hey.” He nudges me until I roll over to look up at him. “Someday soon it’ll just be me and you. You’re the one I want to be with. I love you.”

Hearing him say it helps make me feel a little better. “I love you, too.”

He kisses my forehead and then disappears into the bathroom.

Despite my best efforts, I retreat to my negative thoughts. I love him and he says he loves me, but a part of me also thinks that if he truly loved me that this would be an easy choice for him.

I’m always wrestling with myself, wondering if I’m a bad person or just a man in love. I’m not the one deciding to betray a commitment. I’ve made my commitment. To him.

Malcolm’s the one who’s married.

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**Support the Kickstarter event!**

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https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dnpublishing/montana-beach-sweet-romance-hardcover-editions?ref=dn6gcc

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D. Allen is the author of small town romance, including the Montana Beach series and the Small Town Christmas series.

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Winter Wonderland Romance

by Shanna Hatfield

 

(Winter Wishes, #3)
Publication date: January 25th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

She never wanted to return to her hometown.
He needed an escape from his family.
When a chance meeting brings them together, will their attraction keep them from drifting apart?

Doctor Olivia Burton never intended to return to her hometown of Pinehill. After graduating high school, she set off on a new path, eager to leave her past behind. However, years later, an unexpected phone call from her mentor pulls her back to Pinehill to take over a thriving medical practice as the town’s primary physician. Determined to avoid the local gossip mill, Olivia attempts to keep a low profile as she settles back into the community.

Alex Adams is desperate for an escape from his well-meaning but suffocating family. After a life-altering explosion ended his military career, he finds himself plagued with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Surrounded by his loud and overbearing family only intensifies his struggles. Seeking respite, he retreats to his aunt’s mountain cabin in Pinehill, desperate for peace and quiet.

When a chance encounter brings Alex and Olivia together, the sparks begin to fly. Olivia, cautious and hesitant to let anyone into her guarded heart, begins to question if it’s time to leave her past behind and embrace the possibility of a winter wonderland romance. Alex, yearning for connection and understanding, finds himself drawn to Olivia’s warmth and kindness.

As they spend more time together, will Olivia and Alex discover that love, much like freshly fallen snow, has a way of blanketing everything in a layer of beauty?

Uncover the joys that come with new beginnings, the transformative power of love, and the magic that can be found in the simplest moments in this sweet, wholesome, and tender romance.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

When no one answered, she stepped inside and reached for the light switch she knew was on the wall.

“Alex? I’m not leaving until I make sure you’re okay, so you might as well answer me.”

She cocked an ear and heard water running. He wouldn’t try to drown himself, would he? Olivia tossed off her coat, set the ice cream and cookies on the counter in the kitchen, and was just headed down the hall to the master suite when a light flicked on and Alex stood there wearing nothing but a towel.

The wise thing for her to do would have been to spin around and give him his privacy. However, she was too worried about him and still too keyed up from what had happened to listen to the voice telling her to retreat.

She walked the rest of the way into the room, fisted her hands on her hips, and studied him from the top of his head where water droplets clung to the tips of his hair, down his stoic face, past that delectable cleft in his chin, and along the impressive muscles in his arms, chest, and abs. The physician in her categorized his scars, making note of several burn marks and one spot on his side that looked like a gunshot wound. She walked around him, convinced the corresponding wound on his back was the exit point.

What terrors had this man survived?

Her admiration for him climbed several notches. Alex was a survivor, whether he realized it or not.

“Hi,” she said softly, walking back around to face him. His nearly naked state left her feeling wave after wave of things better left alone, but despite how much it unsettled her, she wasn’t quite ready to return to the kitchen.

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About Author Shanna Hatfield:

USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield writes sweet romances rich with relatable characters, small town settings that feel like home, humor, and hope.

Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

When this farm girl isn’t writing or indulging in rich, decadent chocolate, Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller. She also experiments with recipes, snaps photos of her adorable nephew, and caters to the whims of a cranky cat named Drooley.

To learn more about Shanna or the books she writes, visit her website http://shannahatfield.com or find out more about her here: linktr.ee/ShannaHatfield

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An Heir Made in Hawaii

by Emmy Grayson

 

Published by: Harlequin Presents
Publication date: December 26th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Tough negotiations turn to tempestuous nights in this surprise-baby romance by Emmy Grayson.

Claiming his baby…
after one hot Hawaiian night!

Anika Pierce refuses to have her family hotel swallowed into tycoon Nicholas Lassard’s property portfolio, despite his offers. Their heated negotiations in Hawaii lead them to his penthouse. One electrifying encounter won’t change Anika’s mind…but discovering she’s pregnant might!

Nicholas never planned to be a father. Yet, on hearing Anika’s bombshell, he vows to give his child the happy upbringing he never had—which means winning over the woman who challenges him at every turn. Except to do that, he must admit that their connection runs far deeper than their scorching passion…

From Harlequin Presents: Escape to exotic locations where passion knows no bounds.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

She missed home, missed the crispness of fall sliding into winter as snow danced down from the Alps and dusted the town and the adjoining lake. Lake Bled was becoming better known as a travel destination, although it had held on to its small-town European charm.

But Hawaii had rekindled a wanderlust she hadn’t felt in years. She hadn’t even known she’d needed to get away from Slovenia until she had stepped out of Kauai’s airport into tropical heat that had slid across her skin like a lover’s caress. Palm trees had provided shade, mountains covered in velvety green instead of snow had stood proudly against a turquoise sky and, perhaps her favorite part of all, were the chickens that had run about with carefree glee.

Determined to relax before she walked back up for the conference’s opening session, she lay back on her towel. Slowly, she focused on relaxing her body, tension seeping out of her muscles as the sun gently wiped away her worries and lulled her into a dreamlike state. Schedules and overdue bills and marketing plans slipped away. For once her mind was completely, blissfully clear of everything except where she was.

The word drifted through her mind again—heaven—and she let out a sigh of contentment.

“Be a shame to burn that beautiful skin.”

She froze as the deep, gravelly voice rolled over her, each of the words pronounced with emphasis and tinted with his rasping accent. The rigidity returned, invading her body and tensing her limbs into tightly coiled springs as her pulse kicked up a notch.

Because he’s annoying as hell, she reassured herself.

A shadow fell over her, blocking the sun. Reluctantly, she opened her eyes and blinked.

“I was wrong.”

Nicholas loomed over her, white smile flashing against tan skin that said he had recently been traveling, or more likely partying, abroad.

“About what?”

“I’m not in heaven. I’m in hell.”

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About Author Emmy Grayson:

Emmy’s interest in romance can be traced back to her love of Nancy Drew books, when she tried to solve the mysteries of her favorite detective while rereading the romantic chapters with Ned Nickerson. Fast-forward a few years when she discovered a worn copy of “A Rose in Winter” by Kathleen Woodiwiss on her mother’s bookshelf, and she was hooked. Over 20 years later, Harlequin Presents made her dream come true by offering her a contract for her first book.

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The Vet’s Shelter Surprise

by Elle Douglas

 

Published by: Harlequin Special Edition
Publication date: October 24th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance

An unlikely volunteer…

Saving more than the shelter!

When Georgia O’Neill bursts into the Sunset County Animal Shelter, wary veterinarian Mel Carter doesn’t know what’s hit her. But soon, Georgia’s California rays of sunshine are lighting up even the darkest parts of Mel’s heart, still raw after a heart-wrenching betrayal. Still, PR pro Georgia is set only on rehabbing her image while cleaning out her beloved aunt’s cottage. Mel’s life in rural Canada can’t possibly compete with LA glamour…can it?

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

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Alright. Follow me,” Mel said, leading Georgia down the bright hallway toward the back room. Time to see how she’d do with their resident reptiles. “Right in here,” she said, motioning to the open door at the end of the hall. “After you.”

Heels clicking against the linoleum, Georgia breezed by, leaving the floral scent of her shampoo in her wake and causing Mel to take a deep breath before following her into the room. How was it that something as inane as hair soap could make her heartbeat rev up to double time, and make her palms sweat like a cold glass of lemonade on a hot day? It really had been too long.

Mel surveyed Georgia’s reactions as she walked between the reptile tanks, silently peering into each one with a curious expression.

“Who’s this one? What’s his name?” she asked, pointing to the iguana.

“That’s Sherbet. And she’s a she,” Mel said.

“Okay. Cute. And who’s this?” Georgia pointed to the turtle.

“That’s Pixie. Careful with that one. She almost took my finger off last time I fed her,” she said. She followed Georgia to the gecko tank. “Lollipop is the brown-and-white one, and Gummy Bear is the yellow one.” She waited for Georgia to approach the final tank, which housed a ball python snake named Slinky. Slinky was mellow and gentle, as well as nonvenomous, but Mel knew very few people who liked being in the presence of his sort. Time to see how much Georgia really wanted to volunteer at the shelter.

To Mel’s surprise, Georgia scanned the tank and tapped quietly on the glass. “A snake,” she said matter-of-factly.

“Slinky,” said Mel. Georgia was full of surprises, she was starting to realize. “Most people don’t want to go near him with a ten-foot pole.”

“I lived outside the desert for a few years as a kid. Place was teeming with snakes,” she said. “Okay, next stop?” Her sparkling hazel eyes ratcheted up Mel’s heartbeat from double time to a full-on Ginger Rogers tap dance.

Next stop was the bunny room. Mel was doomed.

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Author Elle Douglas:

Elle Douglas writes small-town contemporary romance for lovers of warm, feel-good stories that are on the sweeter side. Elle’s novels feature strong, relatable characters living in tight-knit communities, with a backdrop of stunning Canadian wilderness.

Elle is a lover of 90’s alternative music, a wannabe chef specializing in comfort food and a sometimes reluctant but usually dedicated gym-goer who lives in Toronto with her romance muse partner and their cat Lucy (or Lucifer, depending on the day). Between writing romance novels and working as a high school guidance counsellor, Elle works exclusively in helping others find their happily-ever-afters.

She is a graduate of TMU’s Radio and Television Arts program, OISE at U of T, and the U of T Creative Writing program, and is a member of Toronto Romance Writers, Romance Writers of America and Georgia Romance Writers.

Visit her website at elledouglas.com or find her on Instagram at @elledouglaswriter

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A Match Made in Ireland

by E.D. Hackett

 

Publication date: September 23rd 2023
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

A semester abroad was exactly what she needed, but falling in love with her roommate was not part of the lesson plan.

When Rory, a driven American seeking a much-needed break from her hectic life, lands in Ireland for a semester abroad, she never imagines sharing her space with Jaime, the charming yet irksome redhead from her flight. A twist of fate entwines their paths, forcing them to live under one roof for four months.

Despite his laid-back demeanor clashing with her meticulous nature, Rory finds herself irresistibly drawn to Jaime’s infectious Irish charm and tight-knit family bonds. As they traverse the breathtaking landscapes of Ireland, Rory relies on Jaime’s wisdom to navigate the challenges of their travels. It doesn’t take long for her to fall for the enchanting Irish experience he offers, which extends far beyond the usual tourist trails.

But as the end of the semester draws near, Rory is faced with a heart-wrenching decision. Will she leave a piece of her heart in Ireland, or was Jaime merely a dream meant to be left behind?

Immerse yourself in E.D. Hackett’s A Match Made in Ireland for a delightful romantic comedy that delves into the magic of Ireland, the beauty of unforeseen bonds, and the transformative power of self-discovery. Buckle up for a journey filled with laughter, tears, and love that you won’t want to miss!

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It was him. The man from the plane sat on the bed, staring at a drawing pad on his lap. The spiky red hair, the smattering of freckles, and the creased eyes triggered a series of flashbacks that ran through my mind: the lack of spatial awareness, the soda down my leg, and the stolen dinner roll.

I pulled the covers over my head, my heart racing and the pit in my stomach digging into my pelvis like a concrete boulder. I dragged the duvet below my eyes and squinted, trying not to be obvious. Am I dreaming? Ha! Maybe I’m having a nightmare. The same red hair, now tousled from sleep, rested against the wall. I pushed the blanket down to my shoulders and said, “Hello, again.”

He looked up from his drawing pad and tilted his head to the left, tapping his pencil against his scruffy chin. “I remember you. From the plane.”

I tried to smile, but my lips refused to rise. I pushed my body against the back wall and pulled the sheet closer to my armpits. “What are you doing here, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“I could ask you the same thing. I live here.”

My eyes bulged and I scrambled to a seated position. “You can’t live here. You’re a guy. This is an apartment with women. Foreign exchange students. A bunch of Americans.” I spoke slowly, as if that would make him understand.

Jaime chuckled and looked down again. “Yes, I am aware, but this is my apartment now. I forgot to renew my housing paperwork last semester, and they gave my room away. This was all that was left. They told me I was living with Rory, Zoey, and Marissa. I take it you’re Rory?”

I nodded.

“I thought you were an Irish lad.”

I swallowed loudly, the saliva crawling down the back of my throat. Reaching across my bed to my nightstand, I downed a bottle of water. Cloudiness from the alcohol still in my system slowed down my brain’s processing ability, and I struggled to understand his words. “You can’t live here,” I said again.

“I wish I didn’t. Living with a bunch of Americans during my last year of college is the last thing I want to do, but it’s that or be homeless so I’ll suck it up.” He returned to his drawing and spoke to his paper. “Nice to meet you, Rory.” His amber eyes looked over, scanning my top half. “Fun time last night?”

My brain beat against my forehead, and I massaged my temples. “Yeah. Sorry if I woke you.”

“No worries. I spent the night with my old flatmates. They live downstairs, and I came up here to crash. I didn’t even hear you come in.”

I grabbed the hooded sweatshirt sitting at the end of my bed, and pulled it over my body. “Are you sure they said there was nowhere else? I mean, I don’t know, Jaime. You’re a guy, a stranger, really, and I have a boyfriend. I don’t think he will be too excited when I tell him my roommate’s an Irish guy.”

His liquid gold eyes looked me up and down. “I asked to be moved and they put me on a waiting list if some other American no-shows, but I want my old flat and my old flatmates. Unless they can squeeze me back in there, I’m staying here. So, there it is. An Irish bloke and an American lass living together. That’ll make a good story for the grandkids. Promise, you won’t even know I’m here.”

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Author E.D. Hackett:

E.D Hackett is a Speech-language pathologist by day and a writer by night. She writes novels that investigate layers of self-expectations, family dynamics, self-love and self-acceptance. She hopes that her novels create a safe and cozy environment for her readers to fall into and explore.

She writes women’s fiction novels with one foot in romance. And every story has a happy ever after.

She lives in New England but in her heart, she feels that she belongs in Ireland. She reads women’s women’s fiction and romantic comedies, prefers books to movies, ice cream to cake, and fall to spring.

Please visit https://www.linktr.ee/edhackett for more information! You can also find her on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Goodreads.

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