Archive for the ‘Contemporary Romance’ Category

Right into a nest of vipers……. Tabou by Beckett Riley

Posted: September 5, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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Tabou
Rachel Rossano
(Beckett Riley)
Publication date: September 1st 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Trapped between societal boundaries, siblings Tom and Theia Edwards thought they knew all about the family business they just inherited from their father. When the true nature of his dealings are revealed, they are thrust into the savage world of drug smuggling for a Mexican cartel.

Forced to continue the work their father once did or suffer the consequences of having their darkest secret exposed, they embark on a journey that will reel them into a nest of vipers full of deceit and betrayal at every turn. But underestimating the forbidden and unbreakable bond between Tom and Theia can prove to be just as deadly to anyone standing in their way.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Get the fuck out of my house,” he spat, blocking Theia from Tenoch’s view.

“That’s no way to speak to your guests, gringo. We just stopped by to say hello and discuss some… unfinished business. But first, I want to meet that lovely little creature hiding behind you,” he said, the corners of his mouth ticking upwards into a punchable cheshire grin. “Come here, mamita, let me have a good look at you.”

Before Tom had a chance to take one step in Tenoch’s direction, one of

the guns on Jake was now pointed directly at him. “What do you want?” he

demanded, looking back at Theia who had tears streaming down her face.

“Well, Tom, we seem to have a couple of problems. One: you are refusing to

continue a particular service your papi used to provide. And two: you know

what I do, and that doesn’t sit well with me. But no worries, I found a solution

now since I know what you… do,” he said, eyeing Theia with his cocky grin still plastered on his face.

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Author Beckett Riley:

Beckett Riley resides in the sunshine state where she writes in between taking care of a four-year-old daughter, three dogs, six chickens, a grumpy barn cat, and a husband (sometimes in that order according to him). She loves writing erotic stories as much as she enjoys reading them. Dark romance and happily ever afters with hot, possessive, guys bring tears of joy to her eyes so please excuse the alpha males roaming her pages, they know not what they do.

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Sleigh Bells On Bread Loaf Mountain by Lindy Miller

Posted: September 2, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, Holidays
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Sleigh Bells on Bread Loaf Mountain
Lindy Miller
Published by: Rosewind Books
Publication date: December 7th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

Screenplay by the writer of Rescuing Madison and
A Lesson in Romance (Hallmark), and the forthcoming Aloha with Love.

Christmas isn’t fashion editor Roxanne Hudson’s style, but when she finds herself snowed in with a handsome stranger, she might just discover the magic of the season after all.

Roxanne Hudson does not like the holidays. They come with too many family obligations that take her away from work as a rising fashion editor in New York City. But this Christmas might be Grandma Myrtle’s last, and Roxanne’s parents want her to spend the holiday at the family cabin in the Green Mountains. With her boyfriend out of the country for a photo shoot, Roxanne decides to brave the long commute—and the wilderness—to spend Christmas in Vermont.

After an uncomfortable call from her boyfriend starts the trip off badly, Roxanne is blindsided by a blizzard on the snowy mountain road, where the last thing she hears before losing consciousness is sleigh bells. When she’s rescued by Mark Foster, a handsome park ranger who’s the exact opposite of everything she always thought she wanted, Roxanne seeks her grandmother’s wisdom and discovers an uncanny connection that could be a sign of what her life is really meant to be.

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Author Lindy Miller

Lindy Miller is an entrepreneur, award-winning professor, and publishing professional. In 2011, Miller was part of the executive leadership team that founded Radiant Advisors, a data and business intelligence research and advisory firm, where Miller developed and launched the company’s editorial and research divisions, and later its data visualization practice, for clients that included 21st Century Fox Films, Fox Networks, Warner Bros., and Disney. She is the author of numerous papers and two textbooks under the name of Lindy Ryan, The Visual Imperative: Creating a Culture of Visual Discovery (Elsevier) and Visual Data Storytelling with Tableau (Pearson) Miller holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration: Entrepreneurship and Strategy, and a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership and a Doctorate in Education, Organizational Leadership.

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An Officer And The Vet ~ A Bliss Cay Novella by Freda Ann

Posted: August 13, 2021 in comedy, Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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An Officer and The Vet
Freda Ann
(A Bliss Cay Novella, #4)
Publication date: August 2nd 2021
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

College sweethearts, Sam and Isla, were crazy in love and looked forward to a life together. That was until his father died suddenly in a tragic accident.

The news sent Sam into a tailspin causing him to spiral out of control. After telling Isla, the woman he hoped to marry, he never wanted to see her again, he hit rock bottom.

Pulling his life together more than a year later, he realizes nothing will ever be the same without his one true love…Isla. Finally locating where she moved to for Vet school, he shows up to beg her forgiveness only to find her kissing her soon to be husband.

Twelve years later, Sergeant Sam Wolfe’s police K-9, Blue, was shot on-duty and suffers from PTSD. Unbeknownst to Sam, his Lieutenant arranged for Isla, the best trauma Vet in Florida, to take over Blue’s care while Sam is on vacation with his son in Bliss Cay.

When they see each other again, neither are prepared for what the summer holds. As Isla helps Blue through his physical and emotional traumas, her and Sam’s worlds collide as skeletons are unearthed changing their lives forever.

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Only 99¢ for a limited time!

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Enjoy this glimpse inside:

“This is Dr. Jensen.” I answer the call that my office manager and best friend put on hold for me.

“Dr. Jensen, this is Lieutenant Vasquez with Colton P.D. I oversee our K-9 Unit. A month ago one of our dogs was shot on-duty and he’s still recovering from the shoulder injury, both mentally and physically.”

“Ah, yes, that was Blue, wasn’t it?”

“Yes, it was.”

“What can I help you with, Lieutenant?”

“Well, Blue and his handler, Sergeant Sam Wolfe, will be staying in Bliss Cay this summer for a much needed vacation. Since Blue is still under the care of our local Vet for his injury and PTSD, he’ll need to continue his course of treatment while there. Dr. Jensen, you came highly recommended, and I’m hoping you’ll take point with his care while in Bliss.”

It’s not often I’m speechless, but this is one of those times. Sam Wolfe is coming to Bliss and his boss wants me to take over his dog’s care…for two long months? I’m supposed to be in the same tiny room with my past all summer?

“Dr. Jensen, you still there? Hello?”

“I—I’m here. Sorry, one of my patients got loose.”

“Would you rather call me back?”

“No, no, it’s fine. I got her.” I say, closing my eyes and shaking my head after lying to the police. It was only a little white lie, right? Get it together, Isla.

“So, what do you say? Will you help a police dog in need?”

How can I say no when he puts it like that? Plus…it’s Sam’s dog. “I’ll do it.” I blurt out before changing my mind.

“Wonderful! We really appreciate your assistance. I have to tell you, Blue’s had a pretty rough time the last month, not to mention Sergeant Wolfe. Since the shooting, the two have been inseparable.”

“Really, it’s no problem at all. It’s my job and I’m happy to help in any way I can. So, uh, when will Sergeant Wolfe and Blue be arriving in Bliss?”

“They’ll be there Sunday—and if it’s okay, Sam will stop by your office on Monday to meet you and go over a treatment schedule that works for everyone.”

“So—Sergeant Wolfe doesn’t know I’ll be caring for Blue while they’re here?” I don’t know why I even asked that, it’s unlikely he knows my married name.

“Well, he knows of you, but I wanted to get your approval before I told him you agreed to take Blue on as a patient. I know he’ll be relieved since I mentioned your credentials. He loves that dog as much as he loves his son.”

Son? Sam has a kid? My pulse accelerates at the realization. Clearing my throat, I ask, “I assume his family will be joining him for the summer?” Thump-thump, thump-thump, my heart pounds in my chest. He’s your past Isla.

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Author Freda Ann

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

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

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

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

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

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

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

 

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The Secret Ingredient ~A Hot In The Kitchen Series by Kilby Blades

Posted: July 30, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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The Secret Ingredient
Hot In the Kitchen Book 1
by Kilby Blades
Genre: Contemporary Romance
*** 2021 Romance Writers of America Vivian Award Finalist ***
From USA Today bestselling author Kilby Blades, the first in the Hot in the Kitchen series…
TV chef Cella journeys to an idyllic seaside town to write an Italian cookbook. She’s also mourning a failed restaurant project, dodging her predatory agent, and finding respite from soul-crushing fame. When she learns that her next-door neighbor, hot doctor Max, is the nephew of a late, famed Italian restaurateur, she convinces him to teach her authentic touches that will help her write the book.
This is a mixed blessing for guilt-ridden Max, who botched his own attempt to become a chef–a failure that’s left his aunt’s gorgeous restaurant sitting empty for years. No one has challenged Cella when it comes to her cooking in ages. Max’s fiery disposition sparks her intuition and reminds her how to feel the food.
But the heat between Max and Cella may be hotter than the flames on the stove. Max’s gentlemanly nature and Cella’s professionalism stop being enough to keep them apart. With Max’s vacation ending and Cella slated to return to L.A., how will they ever say goodbye?
“Blades delivers a saucy romance full of lovely characters who complement each other like a fine wine does a good meal, blending an inviting, homey locale with scrumptious descriptions of Italian cuisine. Romance-inclined foodies will love this contemporary.”
– Publisher’s Weekly
“The Secret Ingredient was a slow-burn, highly developed, and impeccably detailed romance novel.”
– T. Rosado, Goodreads
“I absolutely loved this book. The writing was excellent and the characters well developed. But the thing that made me keep reading was how flawlessly the author told the story.”
– Karen, Amazon reviewer
“By the time I finished this book I felt as tho[ugh] I had taken a trip to Italy. It’s not set there and I’ve never been there but the atmosphere created by this author was absorbing and real.”
– L_iam, Amazon reviewer
Awards and Accolades for The Secret Ingredient
2021 Finalist. The RWA Vivian Award
2020 Finalist: The HOLT Medallion
2019 Quarterfinalist: Publisher’s Weekly BookLife Prize for Fiction
2020 Finalist: National Readers Choice Award
2020 Finalist: New England Reader’s Choice Award
2019 Winner: I Heart Indie Contest
2018 Winner: Unpublished Stiletto Contest
2018 Finalist: Sexy Scribbles Contest
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Kilby Blades is a USA Today Bestselling author of Romance and Women’s Fiction. Her debut novel, Snapdragon, was a HOLT Medallion finalist, a Publisher’s Weekly BookLife Prize Semi-Finalist, and an IPPY Award medalist. Kilby was honored with an RSJ Emma Award for Best Debut Author in 2018, and has been lauded by critics for “easing feminism and equality into her novels” (IndieReader) and “writing characters who complement each other like a fine wine does a good meal” (Publisher’s Weekly).
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To Hold A Rancher’s Hand by Kadi James

Posted: July 28, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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To Hold A Rancher’s Hand
Kadi James
Publication date: July 27th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Synopsis

Rafe is a volunteer fireman who is sworn to protect his ranch and town. Gail has just lost everything to the devastating fire that destroyed her home. Will these two be able to heal their scars and find new love and happiness?

After the trauma of war, rancher Rafe comes home to help his community as a volunteer fireman while trying to find balance in civilian life. He must carry the mantle of his family, who have been Guardians of Coyote Valley for generations. Now its up to Gabe to protect the town from the fires that ravage the national forests around Coyote Valley. But as he gives his all to the community, he often forgets to take care of his own heart.

Loner Gail has just lost everything to the devastating fire that destroyed her home. When the handsome rancher who saved her offers to let her stay at his place, it seems like the perfect solution. Until she remembers she doesn’t really like living with people. It’s why she was living up on top of the mountain in the first place.

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“You’ve been back a couple years.” Javier sipped his coffee as he gazed pensively at his former ward. “I think you’ve got a better handle on it than you let on. But it’s alright. I’d rather you take it at your pace and maybe think about settling down.”

“Settle down?” Rafe couldn’t stifle his laughter. “With what? All I ever see are the sheep and dogs.”

“Well, you’re always pent up in this house.” Javier motioned to encompass the kitchen and the rest of Rafe’s home.

“I spend fifteen hours a day working out on the ranch.” Rafe chided, sliding his breakfast onto the plate. “I’d hardly call that pent up in the house. You know I’ve never had much luck with women.”

“It’s only because you don’t actually ask any of them out,” Javier said with a chuckle.

“I just haven’t met a woman who, well, a woman who made sense to me.” Gabriel took a big bite of his toast and egg.

“Maybe you need to rethink how you make sense to other people.” Javier stood up to wash out his coffee mug. “Maybe it’s the way you’re looking at it.”

“I’ve never even had a girlfriend,” Rafe said. “That is as awkward as they come.”

“Well, it’s hard to have a girlfriend when you’re in the military. But I was married when I was 21. You know you need a support system to get you through some of these things in life that you’re going to face.” Javier placed his cup in the drying rack.

“I can’t imagine facing worse than I have.” Rafe took another bite.

“I pray you don’t,” Javier said. “But whatever you face, a wife sure helps with that. Martha is the only reason I was able to make it through when your parents died. Here I was all of a sudden responsible for a whole ranch and a small, grieving child.”

“Well, I don’t have a child to take care of.” Rafe shrugged as he finished his breakfast.

“No. You’re going to have a hundred children to take care of as soon as these ewes start lambing.” Javier laughed and drained his coffee.

Rafe was just rinsing his plate when a loud static sound filled the air. A dispatcher’s voice called out over the radio. “Report of a half-acre in the grass, moderate rate of spread. Coyote Valley vegetation fire…Cow Mountain Road near mile post 12.38. Command 8. Tactical 2. First at scene will establish roadway IC. Stand by for check back on command 8.”

Gabriel and Javier exchanged a look. “That’s on North Ridge.” Gabriel left his plate in the sink and headed to the entry hall to grab his gear.

“All volunteers report to base,” the dispatcher continued. “Fire house 13 we have a report of a blaze starting up on Cow Mountain we need all hands to the fire department please including the volunteers we need as much help as we possibly can get. There’s a fire on Cow Mountain heading south.”

Javier squinted out the window and the trees swaying in the wind. “There are a few houses up on North Ridge. It’ll get to those first.”

“People living up there, still?” Rafe hoisted his web gear onto his shoulder and slung his boots and helmet up in his other hand.

“Yeah, I think there are about five houses up there,” Javier said, pulling out his phone and preparing a group text. “I’ll get the guys together.”

“I’ll head to the houses. It’s probably near where the fire started.” Rafe nodded to Javier who pulled the door open for him. “It’s not like there was a lightning storm going on.”

“You get what you need to get done,” Javier said. “I’ll send the boys up the mountain as soon as I can.”

“We’re going to need all the hands we can get,” Rafe threw his gear in the back of the truck and tipped his hat to Javier. “If the wind is blowing south, the fire will be headed straight to us.”


Author Kadi James

Kadi James was raised on a ranch in Northern California riding horses, writing stories, and waiting for true love to happen. Her passion for storytelling took her around the world to experience global cultures, history, and mythology, always looking for the similarities rather than the differences. After years overseas, country roads brought her back home again and she returned to California, her family, and the ranch where she grew up. Today she writes Sweet Ranch Romance that touches reader’s hearts by reminding them of the simple things that really matter in life; family, kindness, and always…love.

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Queen Of Second Chances by D.M. Barr ~ Excerpt and Giveaway

Posted: July 7, 2021 in Chick Lit, Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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The Queen of Second Chances by D.M. Barr Banner

The Queen of Second Chances
by D.M. Barr
July 1-31, 2021 Tour

 

Synopsis:
The Queen of Second Chances by D.M. Barr

Carra’s memoir-writing class teaches seniors to resolve the regrets of their past. But to win over elder attorney Jay, will she follow her own advice?

Carraway (Carra) Quinn is a free-spirited English major confronting an unreceptive job market. Desperate for cash, she reluctantly agrees to her realtor stepmother’s marketing scheme: infiltrate a local senior center as a recreational aide, ingratiate herself with the members, and convince them to sell their homes.

Jay Prentiss is a straitlaced, overprotective elder attorney whose beloved but mentally fragile Nana attends that center.

More creative than mercenary, Carra convinces Jay to finance innovations to the Center’s antiquated programming. Her ingenuity injects new enthusiasm among the seniors, inspiring them to confront and reverse the regrets of their past. An unlikely romance develops.

But when Carra’s memoir-writing class prompts Jay’s Nana to skip town in search of a lost love, the two take off on a cross-country, soul-searching chase that will either deepen their relationship or tear them apart forever.

Reviews:

Charming, funny, and heartwarming, The Queen of Second Chances is not just a love story where two people discover each other, it is a story of self-discovery. Like all good romances, this one starts with the two main characters loathing each other before slowly realizing that they are perfect together. But before either Jay or Carra can come to that realization, they have to work through their personal shortcomings. Carra feels like a failure and is unable to get past her mother’s desertion of her as a child. Jay, while his helping people who desperately need rescuing demonstrates his fundamental goodness, puts a little too much emphasis on wealth and status. Helping a group of seniors find fulfillment is the catalyst that allows both the main characters to embrace changing their own lives and then ultimately embrace each other. A joy to read, The Queen of Second Chances is the perfect mood lifter in these stressful times.

– S. Lee Manning, author of the critically acclaimed thriller, Trojan Horse
FIVE STARS!

The Queen of Second Chances by D.M. Barr is a beautifully written story of two lost souls brought together by fate. Carra was such a wonderful character, her warmth and kindness towards others were admirable. She also put others’ needs before her own safety and this was highlighted during the car scene outside the Garrison house. She was perfectly matched to Jay. Although he seemed to enjoy a materialistic lifestyle, I feel he had a really good heart and when he met Carra, he found the missing piece in his life. My absolute favorite character was Helen; she was extremely insightful and wise even though she was suffering from the onset of dementia. Her words of wisdom throughout were poignant and powerful, especially her views on looking back in life: “It’s more important to heed the present because that’s what it is, a gift. Nothing lasts long in this life, which is why every moment matters. You can’t take anything or anyone for granted.” I found the relationship between Jay and Carra developed gradually and the dialogue exchanges between them were very realistic. I loved the twist towards the end concerning Jay’s background and the nail-biting ending was brilliant. I feel there are so many underlying messages throughout too. For example, live for the moment, never be afraid to chase your dreams, and forgive yourself for mistakes you have made in your past. I highly recommend this novel.

– Lesley Jones, for Readers’ Favorite
FIVE STARS!

The Queen of Second Chances by D.M. Barr is a lovely, deftly written romantic comedy that fans of the genre will love.

– Edith Wairimu for Readers’ Favorite

 

Genre: Contemporary Sweet Romance, Romcom, Chicklit
Published by: Champagne Book Group
Publication Date: June 7th 2021
Number of Pages: 204
ISBN: 2940165375545 (ASIN B094GFWG3K)
Purchase Links: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads

 

Read an excerpt:

Chapter One

I couldn’t take my eyes off the man. He came barreling into the recreational center at SALAD—Seniors Awaiting Lunch and Dinner, Rock Canyon’s answer to Meals on Wheels—as I sat in the outer office, awaiting my job interview. He was tall, but not too tall. His expensive suit barely concealed an athletic physique that fell just shy of a slavish devotion to muscle mass. Early thirties, I estimated, and monied. Honey-blond curly hair, blue eyes, high cheekbones, chiseled features, gold-rimmed glasses, and of course, dimples. Why did there always have to be dimples? They were my kryptonite, rendering me powerless to resist.

I nicknamed him Adonis, Donny for short, lest anyone accuse me of being pretentious. He was the stuff of every girl’s dreams, especially if that girl was as masochistic as yours truly. Men like that didn’t fall for ordinary girls like me, gals more Cocoa Puff than Coco Chanel, more likely to run their pantyhose than strut the runway. I leaned back on the leather couch, laid down my half-completed application, and prepared to enjoy the view. Then he opened his mouth, and the attraction withered like a popped balloon.

“I want to speak to Judith. Now. Is she here?” The sharpness of his voice put Ginsu knives to shame. It was jagged enough to slash open memories of my mother’s own barely contained temper when refereeing sibling disputes between Nikki and me. Well, at least until she prematurely retired her whistle and skipped town for good.

The attendant working the main desk looked fresh out of nursing school and had obviously missed the lecture on dealing with difficult clients. She sputtered, held up both hands in surrender, and retreated into the administration office, reemerging with an older woman whose guff-be-gone demeanor softened as she got closer. Her name tag read, “Judith Ferester,” the woman scheduled to conduct my interview. She took one look at Donny, sighed as if to say, Here we go again, and plastered on her requisite customer service smile.

“Mr. Prentiss, to what do we owe the honor of this visit?” she asked in a tone sweet enough to make my teeth hurt.

“Judith, I thought we had this discussion before. I trust you to take care of my nana, but day after day, I discover goings-on that are utterly unacceptable. Maybe we shouldn’t have added the senior center, just limited SALAD to meal delivery. Last week you served chips and a roll at lunch? That’s too many carbs. This week, I find someone is duping her out of her pocket change. No one is going to take advantage of her good nature, not under my watch.”

I half-expected him to spit on the ground. Was such venom contagious? I didn’t want my prospective employer in a foul mood when she reviewed my application. I really, really needed this job.

“Mr. Prentiss,” Judith answered, her patronizing smile frozen in place, “I assure you that your championing of our senior center was well founded. The reason your nana isn’t complaining is that she receives the utmost care. She is one of our dearest visitors. Everyone loves her.”

“Tell me then, what is this?” Donny—scratch that, Mr. Prentiss—drew a scrap of paper from his pocket and flung it onto the counter. I leaned forward to make out the object of his disdain. Then, thinking better of it, I relaxed and watched as this melodrama played itself out.

Judith glanced down at the paper. “This? It’s a scoresheet. They play gin for ten cents a hand. We monitor everything that goes on here; your grandmother is not being conned out of her life savings. You have my word.”

Prentiss shook his head so vigorously his gold-rimmed glasses worked their way down to the tip of his perfect nose. He pushed them back with obvious annoyance. Even when he was acting like a jerk, his dimples were captivating. Would they be even more alluring if he smiled? Did he smile…like, ever?

“It’s not the amount that worries me. It’s the act itself. Many seniors here are memory impaired. How can you condone gambling between people who aren’t coherent? Could you please keep a closer eye on things? Otherwise, I’m afraid I’ll have to take my nana—and my support—to the center I’ve heard about across the river.”

Without waiting for Judith’s response, Prentiss departed as brusquely as he’d arrived. Ah, the entitlement of the rich. Walk over everyone, then storm off. He never even noticed my presence. Just as well, considering my purpose for being there. Even if I wasn’t sorry to see the back end of his temper, his rear end was pleasant enough to watch as he exited, I noted with a guilty shudder.

Judith shook her head, rolled her eyes, and let out a huff. Then she noticed me. “I’m so sorry you had to overhear that. I’m the director here. How can I help you?”

“I’m Carraway Quinn. Everyone calls me Carra. I have an appointment for the recreational aide position.”

Judith typed a few keystrokes into the main desk’s computer. “Ah yes, Ms. Quinn. Carraway, like the seed?”

“Something like that,” I said with a smile.

They always guessed, but no one got it right. Some man would, one day. That’s what my mother said a million years ago, when she still lived within earshot. One man would figure it out, and that’s how I’d know he was the one for me. Not that it mattered right now. I had bigger problems than finding a new boyfriend.

“Tell me, would I have to deal with people like that all day?” I tilted my head in the direction of Prentiss’s contrail.

“What can I say? He loves his nana.” Judith shrugged, staring at the door. “Though I’ve never seen him lash out like that before. He’s usually so calm.” She quickly shifted into public relations mode. “Jay Prentiss is one of our biggest contributors. It’s only because of his generosity that we have this senior center and can afford to hire a recreational aide.” She beckoned me into the inner office. “Shall we proceed?”

I followed, but I had my doubts. I belonged in the editorial office of a magazine or on a book tour for my perennially unfinished novel, not at a senior center. This job was my stepmother’s idea, not mine. Calling it an idea was being generous; it was more like a scheme, and the elderly deserved better than someone sent here to deceive them. I was the embodiment of what Jay Prentiss worried about most.

The interview lasted less than ten minutes, as if Judith was going through the formalities but had already decided to hire me. I was to start my orientation the following day. I shook her hand and thanked her, all the while wishing I were anywhere else.

Afterward, I wandered into the recreation area, where I’d be spending most of my time. The room was dingy, teeming with doleful seniors watching television, playing cards, or staring off into space. A few complained among themselves about a jigsaw puzzle they were unable to finish because the last pieces were missing. I wondered how many had lost their spouses and came to the center out of loneliness, their children too busy with their own lives to visit. It was a heartbreaking thought.

Jay Prentiss was complaining about carbs and gambling when he should have been concentrating on ennui. The seniors’ dismal expressions told me they were visiting SALAD more out of desperation than opportunity. It was clear they needed an injection of enthusiasm, not some aide looking to unsettle their lives. It came down to my conscience. Could it triumph against my stepmother’s directives and my plummeting bank account?

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Excerpt from The Queen of Second Chances by D.M. Barr. Copyright © 2021 by D.M. Barr. Reproduced with permission from D.M. Barr. All rights reserved.

 

Author Bio:

D.M. Barr

By day, a mild-mannered salesperson, wife, mother, rescuer of senior shelter dogs, competitive trivia player and author groupie, happily living just north of New York City. By night, an author of sex, suspense and satire.

My background includes stints in travel marketing, travel journalism, meeting planning, public relations and real estate. I was, for a long and happy time, an award-winning magazine writer and editor. Then kids happened. And I needed to actually make money. Now they’re off doing whatever it is they do (of which I have no idea since they won’t friend me on Facebook) and I can spend my spare time weaving tales of debauchery and whatever else tickles my fancy.

The main thing to remember about my work is that I am NOT one of my characters. For example, as a real estate broker, I’ve never played Bondage Bingo in one of my empty listings or offed anyone at my local diet clinic. And I haven’t run away from home in fear that my husband was planning to off me.

But that’s not to say that I haven’t wanted to…

Find Our Author Online:

DMBarr.com
Goodreads
BookBub – @DMBarr
Twitter – @AuthorDMBarr
Facebook – @AuthorDMBarr
Instagram – @AuthorDMBarr

 

Giveaway:

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Clere’s Restaurant by Pamela Ackerson

Posted: July 7, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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Clere’s Restaurant
A Compilation of Short Stories
by Pamela Ackerson
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Who knows what will happen next at Clere’s Restaurant!
Sunday at 7
Jason Donovan has a secret.
The Clere’s Restaurant’s drama has been unfolding in front of his eyes. If he can see it, so can the restaurant’s other guests. But there’s something the servers aren’t telling him, and he will get to the bottom of it.
Kat couldn’t get out of the restaurant fast enough. Funny how things work out…she never thought she’d meet someone like Jason.
Secrets, lies, affairs, and deceit are served with a smile at Clere’s Restaurant…
With a Side of Love
When Sarah Melton decided to move to Florida to be closer to her sisters, she had no idea she’d be served a plateful of drama.
She’d always been told that a restaurant was a good place to find subject matter for the soap operas…well, that was an understatement!
Who would’ve thought a joke would end up being so real?
Winds from the Past
Larriane arrived in Florida with hope, a new job, and a new identity.
A hurricane came barreling towards her sanctuary. Alone in the world, she’d been taken in by the Clere’s Restaurant clan and felt welcome.
What was she thinking? She should’ve known that you can’t run away from your past.
The Throuple with Love
Surprises are quite pleasant when least expected.
Betty was in love with Bruce, but she had to keep the relationship at bay. She wanted the solid happily-ever-after but couldn’t waver from what her heart needed. It was Trouble with a Three in front.
Love should have no boundaries. Could she have her cake and eat it, too?
The Best Catch of His Life
Cassie had to learn everything the hard way. She’d made one too many stupid mistakes, and now had a hard time looking in the mirror and liking what she was seeing. She felt like one of those soap opera tragedies where she was burned to a crisp and had to rise again as a whole new person.
She was a survivor. She was determined to get her happily-ever-after…if only she could forgive herself.
**Only .99 cents July 2nd – 8th!!**
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Vella, My Love

Seriously, Amazon and their Imagination Crews are fantastic. I’ve seen authors, for years, do episodic stories on their websites. Moreover, a few big name authors were doing it on various platforms where the chapters were purchased individually.

When I first started writing, and being published, it was with short stories. I was sixteen when my first short story was submitted to a writing contest. To my ultimate surprise, I took first place, along with a nice little bundle, which was set aside for college.

That put a writing ember under the seat of my pants and I began writing non-fiction articles, and fiction short reads. It was fantastic!

Back then (yes, I’m carbon dating myself), everything was written long hand and I didn’t know how to type. My parents paid someone to type the stories, articles, and edit the pieces before submitting to various publications. (Silly me. At the time, I had no idea they had to pay someone to do that.)

Along came the typing classes, and a whopping 20 words per minute.

What a wonderful surprise when I received an electric typewriter as a gift!

Terrific! I could now do 30 words per minute.

There was nothing to hold me back.

Fast-forward…

To the here and now. I’ve always found short stories, and quick reads to have a special place in my heart.

Yes, I have full-length books. Several:

Native American Time Travel

Private Investigator Time Travel

WW2 Historical Fiction

WW2 Non-fiction

I co-wrote a memoir

And etc.

Short reads and short stories went out the window many years ago when the publishing industry changed.

Now it’s coming back! Yay!

So, tell me. Do you like the idea of episodic stories?

Would you prefer stand-alone short stories and short reads?

Or, do you like a little of “all of the above”?

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Sunday at 7
Clere’s Restaurant Book 1
Jason Donovan has a secret.
The Clere’s Restaurant’s drama has been unfolding in front of his eyes. If he can see it, so can the restaurant’s other guests. But there’s something the servers aren’t telling him, and he will get to the bottom of it.
Kat couldn’t get out of the restaurant fast enough. Funny how things work out…she never thought she’d meet someone like Jason.
Secrets, lies, affairs, and deceit are served with a smile at Clere’s Restaurant…
**Get it FREE July 1st & 2nd!!**
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Pamela Ackerson’s storytelling all began with her younger brother, creating wonderful children’s stories on vacation trips to keep him occupied. Later, she started writing poems and short stories as a teen.
Born and raised in Newport, RI where history is a way of life, Pam lives on the Space Coast of Florida where you are encourage to reach for the stars. She’s just a hop, skip, and jump from Orlando and Disney World, where imagination and fantasy abounds. She has three children, all girls, three grandchildren, and a wonderful husband who puts up with her writer quirks.
Pam may have majored in child psychology with a minor in English, but her distinguished choice of careers never made fruition. Instead, life led her to working in restaurants, interior decorating, owning an advertising business, content editor for a publishing house, teaching and owning a ballroom dance studio, and real estate investments. She is a practicing herbalist and has been involved in the use of natural treatment with raw herbs for over thirty years. As her day job, she currently works as the V.P. of Marketing and Advertising for the book review magazine, Affaire de Coeur.
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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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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Adrift by Isabel Jolie ~ Excerpt and Giveaway

Posted: June 8, 2021 in Adult Fiction, Contemporary Romance, giveaways
Tags: ,
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Adrift
Isabel Jolie
(Haven Island)
Publication date: June 8th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

I can be your dream girl…for a price…

Ever heard of Only Fans? It’s not my ideal job, but it pays the bills.
It’s even made me somewhat of a celebrity. My subscribers love my provocative shots, and I’m oh-so-good at teasing them.
Then he shows up in my small town and complicates everything.
See, Mr. Green-Eyed Gazillionaire is so far out of my league it’s ridiculous. We’re polar opposites.
That doesn’t change the fact that even though I’m a fantasy to most men, I only want to be his reality.
But nothing real can ever happen between us. Logically, I know that.
Too bad logic and I have never had anything but a passing acquaintance.
Because now, if I’m not careful, I’m afraid this sexy billionaire will smash my poor, pathetic heart into oblivion…

A delicious hot billionaire romance featuring two polar opposites adrift on a resort island with a small-town atmosphere, right of the coast of North Carolina.

This is a steamy contemporary romance with a happily ever after, no cliffhanger, and no cheating.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play

 

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Did you hang up on me?” Shock enveloped his words.

“Yeah.” Get over it.

“Don’t do that. If I say something that offends you, tell me. But don’t end the call. I had a shitty day. I called you because I was reaching out as a friend.”

“Yeah, do you ask all your friends what they’re wearing when you call them? Does Tate give you a good rundown?”

“Fine. I might…I don’t know. That was bad flirting. I got it. I won’t do it again.”

I sipped my wine, waiting for an actual apology.

“How’d your meeting with the bank go?”

My emotions shimmied around uncontrollably. “Not well. I’ve decided that on my next loan application I need to take a different approach to describe my current business.”

“What did they say about it?”

“It wasn’t a they. It was a he. And…” I trailed off, unsure about what to admit.

“Did he come on to you?” he asked. I thought I picked up on a mixture of anger and disbelief. The desire to hang up on him evaporated.

“In a totally professional way. Maybe I was reading into it.” It was probably all in my head. He really didn’t do anything wrong. Some might say he was being nice.

“Tell me what he said.”

“He said I wasn’t likely to get a loan without experience running a restaurant, but he was willing to help me work on my business plan—if I met him at a hotel bar.” I held my breath for Gabe’s reaction, curious. He could say that was normal and how things were done in the business world. In Wilmington, I’d seen business executives hovering around the bar. I’d been in the exact Holiday Inn bar he mentioned once.

Gabe muttered something I couldn’t quite pick up. “Look, the restaurant sector isn’t an area I know. But let me make some phone calls. I’ll have an industry expert consult with you.”

“That’s—”

“Poppy, this is how it’s done. You learn from those with more experience and knowledge. I could tell you something off the top of my head that needs improvement in your presentation, but my feedback won’t be as useful as an industry expert. And what the banker said, about the lack of experience, that could be a legitimate obstacle. Does the chef you are partnering with have any ownership or management experience?”

“No.” I’d fluffed his experience up. Clay was currently the line cook at Jules. But he liked healthy food. And my plan was for more of a wine bar, a place for vacationing adults to come and hang out in a relaxing atmosphere, even after dinner.

“Let me make some calls.”

“How much would a consultant cost?”

“Consider it a favor for hanging out with me and letting me crash on your sofa.”

“Gabe, I don’t want to be indebted to you. How much?”

“Won’t cost a thing. I’ll call in some favors. It’ll be an initial consultation, and you can decide how you want to take it from there.”

“Thank you.”

He sighed. “No problem.”

“Why’d you have a shit day?”

“Ah, just another day in the business world.” Shrill beeps and a robotic voice sounded through the phone. “Premise is secure.”

“Are you just getting home now?”

“Yeah. I had dinner with brokers.”

I checked the time. After ten. “You sound tired.”

“I am. I wake at four a.m. This is a late-night for me. Especially given it’s only Monday.”

“Four a.m.? That’s inhuman.”

He chuckled. I sensed he spoke while walking and talking, maybe even preparing for bed.

“I suppose I should let you go so you can get a good night’s sleep.”

“I’ll have my assistant email over a consultant’s name. And, Poppy?”

“Yeah?”

“That banker was an ass. And I didn’t mean to be.”

~~~~~

 

Author Isabel Jolie

Isabel Jolie, or Izzy to her friends, is an Amazon bestselling indie author with an unquenchable thirst for a good, sexy love story. Izzy’s heart pumps faster for stories with strong heroines, down-to-earth realism, and an unexpected twist.

When she’s not writing or reading, she can often be found with a glass of wine in hand relaxing with her husband, daughters, and good friends lakeside.

Izzy fills her Instagram feed with funnies, inspirational “brain candy”, and anything that meshes with her mood of the day. #mood.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

 

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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Country In Bliss ~ A Bliss Cay Novella by Freda Ann

Posted: May 20, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
Tags: ,
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Country in Bliss
Freda Ann
(A Bliss Cay Novella, #3)
Publication date: May 19th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

After country singer, Blaze Shore, almost cold-cocks Cali Rose with his car door, she hopes to never see the arrogant stranger again. But when she finds herself face to face with the up and coming heartthrob, the wrong kind of sparks fly.

Blaze agrees to take on the role of big brother to Angel, a boy he mentors. He wants to give the struggling kid the best summer vacation of his life. On day two in Bliss, he realizes it may be more difficult than he imagined.

Cali’s daughter, Becca, wants to hang out with the only kid staying nearby. The problem is he lives with Blaze, the man who likes nothing more than getting under Cali’s skin.

Can two kids and a dog find a way to help Blaze and Cali look beyond haunting memories of the past, as well as their first impressions of one another? Or will this summer turn into the worst one ever?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

99¢ on Amazon and FREE on other retailers for a limited time only!

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EXCERPT:

With my disguise in place and feeling like I might explode, I throw the car door open—only for it to stop halfway. It must’ve hit something. I squeeze through the opening while trying to push it further as I see some blonde with large sunglasses gawking at me.

“What’s your problem?” Raising my brows, I stare back at her wondering if my disguise didn’t work. Hopefully she’ll take the hint to leave me alone because I’m not in the mood to sign autographs.

“Excuse me?” Fluttering her eyes, she shuts her mouth and raises her brows. “You’re asking me what my problem is when you’re the one who hit me with your car door? What’s your problem? You barely missed my face!” She props her hands on her hips, shaking her head.

“Why are you walking so close to my car then? You people need to give me a break.”

“You people? What the heck does that mean?”

“Duh, people like you who want something from me. Just give it a rest, okay?”

“Are you on drugs or something?” She pulls her glasses off, looking me in the eyes.

This woman is getting on my last nerve. “Don’t try to play dumb with me lady. I’m not falling for it.”

She squints at me. “Have you lost your mind, or are you rude by nature?”

“You can quit trying to be coy, I’m not interested!”

“Trust me buddy, I wouldn’t be interested in you if you were the last man on earth.” Eyeing the woman, Shane walks around to my door, in an attempt to diffuse the situation before I slam it shut.

“Unbelievable!” she yells before storming off.

Author Freda Ann:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Pinterest

 

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The Bourbon Books by Allison Martine ~ Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted: February 19, 2021 in Contemporary Romance, giveaways
Tags: ,
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Dibs
The Bourbon Books #1
by Allison Martine
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Now a 2020 Kindle Book Awards FINALIST-Romance.
Not tonight, Olivia.
Olivia’s ex-husband shut her down so many times before the cheating bastard left her that Olivia lost count. She didn’t realize she’d also lost the ability to banter, interpret body language, or accept that a man could find her desirable. None of that should matter when she leaves for a two-week training for her new job with the Ranchers, an outdoorsy nonprofit, but when her co-worker adds ‘halter top’ and ‘bikini’ to the official pack list, she has no idea what to expect on this trip.
It certainly wasn’t a perky blonde roommate who thinks their training is like spring break, but with a paycheck. It wasn’t the after-hours hot tub. It absolutely wasn’t the man with a rumble for a laugh who shows up on her flight and introduces himself as the colleague she didn’t know would be her companion for the next two weeks.
When blondie calls dibs on that same colleague, Olivia just wants to stay out of her way, but her colleague has ideas of his own. Ideas which involve Olivia, the hot tub, and shared sips of bourbon.
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Since September
The Bourbon Books #2
Most brides dream of planning every last detail of their wedding. Not Olivia Markham. She’d been down the aisle once already and regretted that decision, along with every other judgment call connected with her unfaithful ex. But she also never planned on falling for Adam Burkhardt, who proposed sooner than anyone could have guessed.
So when Adam suggests letting their mothers suss out the particulars for their big day, Olivia agrees, hoping it will assuage their mothers’ trepidation towards their upcoming union. She even relents to having a bachelorette weekend, for the sake of her friends.
Olivia shall endure more nuptial nonsense and play bride once again.
They should have eloped.
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Move On, Melinda
The Bourbon Books #3
There are worse things than being a bridesmaid at your best friend’s wedding. Hitting on the groom? Ancient history. Hitting on the best man? Regrettable but forgettable. Getting pawned off on some random guy who came as his mom’s date? Could be worse. But more happened the night of the Burkhardt wedding than Melinda is ready to admit.
Now, Melinda is determined to move forward and leave all that behind.
She just has to survive the Ranchers’ All Staff Retreat, carpooling with her meddling boss, the fresh-from-their honeymoon newlyweds, and a certain unexpected passenger she’d hoped to avoid for the weekend—and the memories he stirs up.
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Allison Martine is a multi-genre novelist, focusing on literary science fiction, contemporary romance, and women’s fiction. Her debut novel, dibs, was declared a Finalist for Romance in the 2020 Kindle Book Awards, and Readers’ Choice: Category Leader for Romance.
She also writes literary science fiction under the pen name A.M. Hubbard.
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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!
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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.

I am an Amazon Affiliate. Product images are linked.

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