Archive for the ‘Contemporary Romance’ Category

Peek Inside And Giveaway ~ Designs On Love by Tomi Tabb

Posted: August 29, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
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Designs on Love

by Tomi Tabb

 

(Friends of the Unexpected Royals, #1)
Publication date: August 30th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Min grew up with dreams of becoming a professional ballerina, but fate had other plans for her.
Fresh out of the London School of Fashion, she’s set her sights on one goal: earning an internship at one of the most exclusive fashion houses in the country—the Clarissa Lee Atelier.

When a series of unfortunate events leads to an unexpected meet-cute with a tall, dark, and handsome royal guard, Min’s plans are suddenly turned upside down.

She never expected to end up with a date with a soldier named Sam instead of applying for her internship.

Despite the setback, it’s not long before Min is offered her shot at a dream design commission. This is everything she’s been working toward. Devoting all her time and energy to it should be a no brainer, except she’s started to fall for Sam, who’s also laser focused on advancing in the army while taking care of his sisters.

As they navigate their growing feelings for each other, Min finds herself at a crossroads. With their careers on the line, can Min and Sam find the time to get their happily ever after?

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

We spend about an hour and a half wandering around the small space until we’re back to where we started. From the landing overlooking the main entrance, I take a few extra moments to soak in all that we’ve seen. I feel like I’m inside a Barbie Dream House.

“Do you think you have enough inspiration to finish putting your portfolio together?” Liz asks, leaning against the stairwell railing.

“Actually, I have a small confession to make.” Heat sears through my cheeks.

Liz turns and studies me for a moment, her lips thin. “Min, don’t tell me . . . Have you scrapped everything you had and started again?”

I look away, bobbing my head up and down.

“Gah, you’re such a perfectionist.” She sighs. “I suppose that’s why we get on so well.”

“I think from what I’ve seen here today, I have enough ideas floating around my head to get started on a new collection.”

“And to finish it?”

“I’ll go to my usual place.”

“The National Portrait Gallery?” she asks.

“Uh-huh.”

We begin descending the stairs, staying to the right.

“Are you going to be able to finish before the deadline for the Clarissa Lee internship? It’s only two weeks away.”

I wave her off. “I have plenty of time. I can get it done.”

Liz mutters something under her breath that sounds like, “I hope so.”

“I will, I promise.”

Reaching into her pocket, she retrieves her phone. “I’ll set another reminder to myself to check in on you next week and the week after.”

“You’re the best. Have I ever told you that?”

She grins. “Yes, but not often enough.”

“Come on, let’s stop by the cafe and grab a tea before we head out. My treat.”

“How can I say no to that?”

We exit the exhibit to the main museum and walk toward the gift shop. A banner advertises a few exhibits coming to the museum later this spring. Liz grabs my sleeve and stops me in my tracks.

“Oy, Min, look, there’s an exhibit for the fiftieth anniversary of the Westminster Ballet in February. That looks like it’s right up your alley. Do you want to stop and book tickets for it while we’re here?”

I swallow hard as my stomach muscles clench. It’s been four years since I was fired from the LABT. I should be able to look at a dumb ol’ tutu and not become so emotional about it. But I can’t. Artum managed to ruin the one thing I loved. I may have moved to London, started a new career, and a new life, but I still can’t seem to let go of the past.

“No, I . . . I can’t,” I sputter.

Liz has never pushed me to talk about the past, but she knows that I used to dance professionally. As she reads my body language, her face softens. “Tea, then.”

Like a mother hen tucking me under her wing, she steers me toward the cafe and changes the subject. “Did I tell you that I have a few ideas for decorating my new flat? I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.”

“OK,” I croak.

Liz starts on about her bedroom, but my mind is still stuck on Artum. Will I ever be free from him?

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About Author Tomi Tabb:

Tomi is a sweet romance author who enjoys writing feel-good stories with a heart.

Her first published novel, “Dancing With a Royal,” made its debut in 2020.

Outside of her day job, and attending grad school, Tomi enjoys figure skating and hunting for new pumpkin flavored foods. Her current favorite item is pumpkin spice Milano cookies.

Become a part of Tomi’s Treasured Community of readers by joining her newsletter or visiting her official website.

Website / Goodreads / TikTok / Instagram

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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.

Peek Inside And Giveaway ~ Breaking The Ice by Whitney Dineen

Posted: August 24, 2024 in comedy, Contemporary Romance, giveaways
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Breaking the Ice

by Whitney Dineen

 

(Love on Thin Ice, #1)
Publication date: August 22nd 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance, Sports

What do an entitled billionaire and small-town ice-skating coach have in common?

Ellie
My life is not turning out like I thought it would.

My mom’s arthritis has gotten so bad that I had to move in with her. I’m making ends meet by giving ice skating lessons at the arena in Maple Falls. I’d be in serious trouble had the Harts not given me that job.

Which makes it impossible to say no when they ask me to let Troy’s obnoxious billionaire brother stay in the cabin on my mom’s property during the charity hockey event they’re running.

Zach
First the tabloids call me out for being a cheapskate and then Yolanda Simms takes to national television to tell everyone what a vicious heartbreaker I am?

Yeah, my life has been better.

My brother thinks I can fix my bad press by coming to Maple Falls and donating big to his new charity endeavor. Too bad he didn’t mention the woman who owns the cottage I’ll be staying at hates me with a passion.

He also didn’t mention she’s everything I’ve ever looked for in a woman…

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Zach

I’ve learned a lot of things from being a billionaire in my thirties, but so far, the most essential is that you can’t have thin skin. Everyone wants a piece of you and when you’re not giving them the time or attention they think they deserve, they set out to tear you down. Case in point, Yolanda Simms, the entertainment reporter for KBIZ and the most annoyingly fame-seeking woman it has ever been my displeasure to know.

Yolanda and I went out three times, which is a record for me as I barely have a minute for myself. Given my busy schedule, you might be wondering why I would spend my precious free time with such a person. When I first asked her out, I didn’t see her for who she truly was. I may have also had a hidden agenda.

I’d recently been called out by a national tabloid for not putting my money where my mouth was. As in, they didn’t think I donated enough to charity. And while supposedly no press is bad press, I really don’t like people thinking of me the way I was being portrayed.

I figured if I wined and dined Yolanda—who had previously flirted with me outrageously every time she saw me—she might spread the word that I was a decent guy. Self-serving? Yes. But I’m not the villain the press would have you think I am, and I wanted a chance to prove it.

Unfortunately, Yolanda got ahead of herself regarding our friendship and decided to announce on air that she and I were in an exclusive and committed relationship. As we had never so much as kissed, I took exception to her declaration.

“Zachary!” my assistant Anabelle yells out. Before I can ask her what she wants, she says, “Your brother is on line three.”

I have five brothers, so I ask, “Which one?”

Instead of answering, I overhear her tell someone else, “Mr. Hart has no comment on Ms. Simms’ allegations.” Great, another day fending off the aftermath of Yolanda’s interview on The View. She told Whoopi Goldberg I was an egomaniacal alpha-male.

I hesitantly reach over to the landline on my desk. “This is Zach.”

“Hey, big bro,” my younger twin says. In my mind’s eye, I see his lopsided grin, which, even though we’re fraternal twins, is remarkably like my own. MacElroy, aka Mac, is four minutes younger than me and has four times the personality. “It’s starting to look like you’re wading through a herd of cows in a rainy field.”

“What does that even mean, Mac?” My brother recently bought a sustainable farm in Oregon and his metaphors have taken on a rural sort of charm.

“Where there are cows there are cow pies. Need I explain that a rainy field full of heifers is full of wet …”

“Manure. Got it.” Gross.

“Why don’t you set the world straight and tell them the majority of your charitable donations are given anonymously?” he wants to know. The man definitely cuts to the chase.

“You do know the definition of anonymous, don’t you?” I condescendingly inquire.

“Yes, Zach. What I don’t know is why you don’t just come clean about what a good guy you are.”

“Because if I bragged about doing good deeds, they wouldn’t feel like good deeds,” I tell him for the hundredth time.

Shifting in my chair, I stare out of my home office window onto Wilshire Boulevard below. You’d think all the short skirts and tanned legs would be one of the benefits of living in Southern California. Yet no matter how good the view is, wealthy Beverly Hills women are not my type. They’re simply too high maintenance, not to mention too self-involved.

“I’m just saying…”

“Let it go, Mac.” Removing my feet from the edge of my giant mahogany desk, I ask, “Did you call for any other reason than to bust my butt about Yolanda? Because if not, I have work to do.”

“What are you buying today?” he wants to know. “Another office building? A high-rise? Malibu?” While I like to have a diversified financial portfolio, as a real estate developer, I am obviously partial to buying property.

“I’m giving a speech at Pepperdine,” I tell him. Tongue in cheek, I add, “I call it ‘One House, New House, Big House, You House.’”

“Ah yes, a nod to your childhood love of Dr. Seuss.” Releasing an exaggerated yawn, he asks, “Has anyone ever told you that you’re becoming kind of boring?”

“You tell me that at least twice a week,” I remind him. “Now, why are you calling?”

Instead of putting me out of my misery, he wants to know, “When was the last time you strapped on a pair of skates and played a game?”

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About Author Whitney Dineen:

Whitney loves to laugh, play with her kids, bake, and eat french fries — not always in that order.

Whitney is a multi-award-winning author of romcoms, non-fiction humor, and middle reader fiction. Basically, she writes whatever the voices in her head tell her to.

She lives in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, Jimmy, where they raise children, chickens, and organic vegetables.

Gold Medal winner at the International Readers’ Favorite Awards, 2017.

Silver medal winner at the International Readers’ Favorite Awards, 2015, 2016.

Finalist RONE Awards, 2016.

Finalist at the IRFA 2016, 2017.

Finalist at the Book Excellence Awards, 2017

Finalist Top Shelf Indie Book Awards, 2017

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Twitter

 

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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.

Peek Inside And Giveaway ~ Tide Together by Melanie Summers

Posted: August 24, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
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Tide Together

by Melanie Summers

 

(Paradise Bay, #7)
Publication date: August 22nd 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

What happens when a stressed-out bridesmaid and a laidback pilot are stranded alone together on a sun-kissed Caribbean island?

Paige Chadwick is having the worst day of her life. Her tyrant boss has made her three days late for her sister’s destination wedding trip, and now she’s stuck on the wrong Caribbean island with the wedding just hours away.

Enter Mac Gamble, a brooding yet irresistibly attractive pilot, who reluctantly agrees to get her to the church on time.

When a fast-moving storm leaves them stranded on a deserted island, they’re forced to rely on each other to survive. As they navigate their new surroundings, tempers flare and an undeniable attraction grows.

Amidst the stunning sunsets and white sand beaches, Paige starts to see that underneath Mac’s gruff exterior is a heart of gold.

Can these two opposites find a love as deep as the ocean, or will their differences stir up a hurricane of heartbreak?

Tide Together is a STAND-ALONE hilarious and heartwarming, banter-filled tale of two complete opposites stranded together in a tropical paradise.

WHAT TO EXPECT:
Opposites attract
Stranded together on a tropical island
Forced proximity/only one bed
Fish out of water
Deliciously witty banter
A whole lot of tension, plenty of steam, and a hint of spice

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

I plunk myself on my suitcase and give in to despair. Sobs pour from my chest. I’m the worst sister of all time. Tiffany is never going to forgive me. It’s not as if this is the first time I’ve flaked on her. The truth is, since Guy offered me the job, I haven’t been there for her at all. I wouldn’t forgive me either.

I’m crying so hard, I don’t even register the sound of a plane until it lands in the water nearby. I watch as it slows and turns, then glides to the far side of the dock. It’s bright yellow and a little rickety. In my normal life, I’d never step foot on that thing, but it’s my only chance.

I stand, load up my arms, and drag my suitcase as I run toward the plane, waving my makeup case at the pilot while the propellers slow to a stop. The door opens, and a tall, built guy in jeans and a white t-shirt hops out.

“Hey! Hi, there!” I holler.

He ignores me in favor of locking the door.

“Hello, Mr. Pilot Man! I need your help!” Mr. Pilot Man? WTF, Paige?

His body stiffens, then he turns to me with an irritated look on his face. Even though he’s wearing aviators, his set jaw is making it clear that he’s annoyed. Why am I so annoying when I panic?

I stop right in front of him, panting. “Hi! Sorry. I need to get to Azure Island right away.” Pant. Pant. How embarrassing. Chadwicks don’t pant. Especially not in front of insanely hot men.

He sniffs, then says, “All done for the day. Check back with me tomorrow. Or better yet, check with someone else.” Looking me up and down, he adds, “You look high-maintenance. I don’t do high-maintenance.”

Wow. What a jerk. “First of all, the last thing I am is high-maintenance. And second, I’m not asking you to do me. I’m asking you to give me a ride.” Although, my lady bits wouldn’t mind negotiating the type of ride I’d be getting.

He grins down at me, and it’s not a particularly friendly grin at that. There’s something about it that causes a shiver to run down my spine. Pointing to my makeup kit, he says, “What’s in there?”

Lifting my chin, I say, “None of your business.”

“If I’m not mistaken, it’s filled with all sorts of creams and paints and powders you don’t need. Any woman with that much makeup is high-maintenance.”

Well, that was certainly rude. Except for the part about me not needing makeup. “That’s a pretty big assumption. What if there’s no makeup in here at all? Maybe I have a chronic illness and I need dozens of medications every day to keep me alive?”

“Do you?”

“Are you always this nosy?”

“You do realize you need something from me, and not the other way around, right?”

“Fine. It’s makeup,” I say. “But it’s for my job, not because I care about this kind of thing. And I work sixteen hours a day. I don’t have time to be high-maintenance.”

He pockets his keys and turns away from me, calling over his shoulder, “Where do you work? Inside a tanning booth?”

What a jackass! I stand, frozen in place while he strolls toward the parking lot. My brain seems to have seized up and I can’t quite think of a response. He’s arrogant, rude, know-it-all-y, and just plain awful. But he’s also my very last chance. So instead of running up behind him and pushing him into the ocean (which is super tempting at the moment), I leave my suitcase on the dock and follow him like a puppy. “Wait! It’s just a very short ride, I promise you! Are you familiar with Azure Island? It’s only five minutes away. You can still catch almost the whole soccer game!”

“It’s seventeen minutes from here, and I have no interest in football, but I still can’t help you out.” He continues striding toward one of the few remaining vehicles here—a shiny motorcycle.

“Can’t or won’t?”

“Take your pick. The result’s the same.” When he reaches the bike, he mounts it with one quick move, then starts it up. Well, that was ridiculously slick. Why on earth do I find this awful man so attractive? I mean, yes, he’s tall, he’s got thick chestnut brown hair that I want to run my fingers through, and he’s devilishly handsome. Sure, he’s built like a tank. All muscles on his muscles. But still. Rude.

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About Author Melanie Summers:

Melanie Summers also writes steamy romance as MJ Summers.

Melanie made a name for herself with her debut novel, Break in Two, a contemporary romance that cracked the Top 10 Paid on Amazon in both the UK and Canada, and the top 50 Paid in the USA. Her highly acclaimed Full Hearts Series was picked up by both Piatkus Entice (a division of Hachette UK) and HarperCollins Canada. Her first three books have been translated into Czech and Slovak by EuroMedia. Since 2013, she has written and published three novellas, and eight novels (of which seven have been published). She has sold over a quarter of a million books around the globe.

In her previous life (i.e. before having children), Melanie got her Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta, then went on to work in the soul-sucking customer service industry for a large cellular network provider that shall remain nameless (unless you write her personally – then she’ll dish). On her days off, she took courses and studied to become a Chartered Mediator. That designation landed her a job at the R.C.M.P. as the Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator for ‘K’ Division. Having had enough of mediating arguments between gun-toting police officers, she decided it was much safer to have children so she could continue her study of conflict in a weapon-free environment (and one which doesn’t require makeup and/or nylons).

Melanie resides in Edmonton with her husband, three young children, and their adorable but neurotic one-eyed dog. When she’s not writing novels, Melanie loves reading (obviously), snuggling up on the couch with her family for movie night (which would not be complete without lots of popcorn and milkshakes), and long walks in the woods near her house. She also spends a lot more time thinking about doing yoga than actually doing yoga, which is why most of her photos are taken ‘from above’. She also loves shutting down restaurants with her girlfriends. Well, not literally shutting them down, like calling the health inspector or something–more like just staying until they turn the lights off.

She is represented by Suzanne Brandreth of The Cooke Agency International.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

 

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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.

Forever To Fall by Libby Kay ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: August 23, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
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Welcome to Buckeye Falls, where second chances mend broken hearts for
these childhood sweethearts. Wedding bells are ringing, but the sister of the groom
is conflicted.

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Forever to Fall

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Buckeye Falls Book 5

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by Libby Kay

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Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

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Welcome to Buckeye Falls, where second chances mend broken
hearts for these childhood sweethearts. Wedding bells are ringing,
but the sister of the groom is conflicted.

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Fifteen years ago,
Mallory Lawson “married” her childhood sweetheart, Beckett, in a
pretend wedding on his family’s apple farm. She treasures not only
the memories, but the ring he put on her finger. The trouble now, her
brother, Evan, wants to put that family heirloom on his fiancée’s
finger. Mallory adores CeCe, but she struggles to get past her
girlhood fantasies of Beckett swooping back into her life with a
certain ruby ring…

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Beckett Fox is at a
crossroads. After losing his grandfather, he’s listless and fearful
of coming back to the family farm. There are too many memories, and
most of them are tied to the love of his life, Mallory. He doesn’t
even know if she remembers that fateful day when they were kids,
playing make- believe under the apple trees, but he does. Now he’s
back to help his buddy get married, and he hopes to find peace on the
family farm, with Mallory by his side…

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When the wedding
planning kicks into high gear, Beckett and Mallory are thrust
together as maid of honor and best man. The more time they spend
together, the harder it is to ignore the sparks between them. Beckett
fears Evan won’t support him dating Mallory, so the pair date in
secret. But true love won’t stay hidden forever…

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Best-selling author
Libby Kay’s Buckeye Falls Series reminds readers of small-town life
where everyone knows each other. Fans of Sharon Sala’s Blessings,
Georgia series and Susan Mallery’s Fool’s Gold series will fall
in love with Buckeye Falls and the childhood sweethearts who are
tired of hiding their feelings. Come for the wedding and stay for the
whole series.

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Amazon
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* Goodreads

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How was Beckett so calm right now? Not only was the world ending outside, but they were

casually eating like they hadn’t just made out like teenagers. God, that kiss. It was hungry and filled

with years of tension and longing. That couldn’t all have been one-sided, right? He instigated, so

clearly he was into her.

Didn’t he feel this? Was that kiss the result of too much pain meds and the adrenaline of the day?

Why wasn’t he spiraling down the rabbit hole like she was? Pulling her briefly from her musings, she

felt the warmth of his hand in hers.

Beckett held her hand as he shoveled his second helping of chili fries into his mouth. His thumb

gently caressed over her knuckles while he ate like he had been on a deserted island for centuries.

And to think, just ten minutes before he was devouring her like that.

She watched him, willing him to say something perfect, something romantic to prove he felt this

connection between them. Instead, he turned to her and asked, “Are you going to eat that ranch

dressing?”

Mallory couldn’t help it, she burst out laughing. The last weeks’ worth of muddled emotions

spilled out of her in hysterical laughter. Beckett’s grasp on her hand loosened and she pulled free to

dab at her eyes with a crumpled napkin.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, clearly alarmed by her outburst. His mouth hung open so wide, she

could have shoved the entire bottle of ranch dressing inside.

 

Mallory propelled the chair back with a clatter, striding to the sink for a glass of cold water. After

chugging half the contents in one go, she let out a long exhale and leaned back on the counter. Once

again, he asked, “What’s wrong, Mal?”

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**Don’t miss the rest of the Buckeye Falls books! **

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 Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her
husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading romance novels
of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish her soul.
Contemporary or Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily
ever after—she’s in love! When not surrounded by books, Libby can
be found baking in her kitchen, binging true crime shows, or on the
road with her husband, traveling as far as their bank account will
allow.

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Libby cohosts the
Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend
romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers.
Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!

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Website
* Facebook *
Instagram *
Bookbub *
Amazon *
Goodreads

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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.

Rescue The Night by Christine DePetrillo ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: August 22, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , ,
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 Touching Spencer—even for a millisecond—did things to my body.

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Wild things I could barely control.

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Rescue the Night

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A Hartley’s Nest Romance Book 1

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by Christine DePetrillo

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Genre: Small-Town Contemporary Romance

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Touching Spencer—even for a
millisecond—did things to my body. Wild things I could barely
control.

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I hate dentists. Except for Dr. Spencer Holland. It’s hard
to hate him when he smiles at me, and those adorable crinkles appear
at the corners of his big, brown eyes. I’m nervous as hell when
he’s aiming sharp dental tools at me, but I’m also imagining how
his lips would feel against mine. How his arms would feel wrapped
around me. How our bodies would fit together perfectly.

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I can’t actually have this sexy dentist though because he’s my
brother’s best friend and totally off limits. Actually, Spencer is
friends with all of my brothers—all five of them.

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Oh, did I forget to mention I have five brothers?
Five brothers who circle like me like a pack of protective wolves.
Yeah, so anyway . . .

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I’ve managed to hide my attraction
to Spencer for fourteen years ever since he came to my rescue on my
prom night. Lately ignoring my feelings for him, however, is a
full-time job. One I’m failing at. Epically.

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And there are these . . . moments when I almost believe
Spencer wants me too. But that couldn’t be.

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Could it?

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I’m tired of being underwhelmed by every
relationship I attempt with other guys. None of them measure up to
Spencer, and it’s time I did something to make him mine.

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Just don’t tell my brothers.

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Rescue the Night is a small-town, brother’s-best-friend, steamy, contemporary romance.

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Amazon
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* Books2Read *
Bookbub
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Merlin rose to all fours, stretched, and followed Spencer through the living and dining rooms to the sliding doors at the back of the cabin. The dog shot outside as soon as the door opened while I waffled between staying where I was by the front door and wandering toward Spencer. Of course I’d wandered through his home before. I’d been in every room except one.

The bedroom.

Magnetism won out and I snaked my way through the living room, pausing by the couch so I didn’t seem too eager to be beside Spencer. I peeked down the hall toward his bedroom. Would I finally get to see it? Tonight?

He turned when a floorboard creaked under my foot and I froze.

“Why do I feel as if I’m sneaking up on you right now?” I asked.

Spencer lowered his head and slid his hands into the pockets of his jeans. “Why do I feel as if I don’t know how to act around you right now?”

“Because we’re on a date?” I shrugged. “This is a different scenario for us.” I took a few steps closer so only the dining room table was between us now. “We’re both worried about what happens if this goes badly. We’re afraid of my brothers finding out.”

He winced at that last concern. “They might murder me.”

I waved a hand. “They hardly murder anyone anymore.”

That earned a little grin from Spencer so I rounded the table to stand in front of him. He kept his hands in his pockets and I kept mine clasped behind me, both of us not sure what touching each other would do.

“What if we pretend we haven’t known each other since we were kids?” I suggested. “And that you’re not Logan’s best friend, and none of my brothers even exist?”

“It’s just us tonight.” Spencer nodded. “Okay.”

“All right. So we’ll behave as we would on a regular first date with someone.”

“We can try.” His gaze swept over me again. “But, honestly, none of my first dates have ever interested me as much as you do, Vanessa.”

Damn. How could I follow my own advice when he fired me up again?

“I’m not that interesting,” I said.

Spencer’s lips tilted up. “Bullshit.”

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 Christine DePetrillo can often be found hugging trees,
conversing with dragonflies, and walking barefoot through sun-warmed
soil. She finds joy in listening to the wind, bathing in moonlight,
and breathing in the fragrances of things that bloom. If she had her
way, the sky would be the only roof over her head.

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Her love of nature seeps into every story she tells. As does her
obsession with bearded mountain men who build, often smell like
sawdust, and know how to cherish the women they love. Today she
writes tales meant to make you laugh, maybe make you sweat, and
definitely make you believe in the power of love.

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She lives in Vermont with her husband and many woodland creatures who
defend her fiercely from all evils.

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Website
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Peek Inside And Giveaway ~ Mr. Absolutely Not! by Alina Jacabs

Posted: August 14, 2024 in comedy, Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , ,
4

 

Mr. Absolutely Not!

by Alina Jacobs

 

(The Seattle Svenssons, #1)
Publication date: August 6th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Armed with comfy pants, overpriced coffee, and a highly anxious emotional-support corgi, I prepare to face him.
Corporate boss.
Villain.

I step into his office. His perfect mouth twists into a sneer.
There is no heart of gold beneath that suit, just a big black pit. He’s a shark in the frothy waters of high-stakes finance.
He might be the quintessential asshole CEO, causing all in his path to quake in fear, but he’s never had to face down a basic bitch in her thirties.

I am exactly like the other girls—I adore Starbucks, greige home decor, and making snarky jokes with my bestie. I’ve even inherited a stalker from an ill-advised singles party.
Yeah, the stalker is… a problem, one I’m hoping will just go away if I ignore it.

I can’t ignore him, though.
He’s all broad shoulders and snide comments, picking apart everything about me as he circles me, going for the kill.
He would never fire me, though. There’s no fun in that. He wants me to quit, to have a mental breakdown.
Well, he can get in line behind my crazy gold-digging sister, my guilt-tripping mother, and the aforementioned stalker.

He pins me with his gaze.
I brace myself, waiting for the verbal blow to come…
Instead, he says, “I need a date tonight, and unfortunately, it has to be you.”

This is a full-length, enemies-to-lovers romantic comedy, complete with smokin’ hot-but-morally gray heroes, a smidge of suspense, and of course the perfect happily ever after!

Goodreads / Amazon

~~~~~

Enjoy this peek inside:

After a cold shower, I wrap a towel around my waist as I step out then lather up to shave. I’m just rinsing off the straight razor when something slimy and rough runs against my leg.

I strangle a curse as the pudgy corgi stumbles back, tripping over the bath mat.

“Mandy!” I bellow, wrenching open the slightly open door. “Mandy!”

“Scram,” I tell the animal. “Out.”

It runs under the vanity and stares at me.

Dammit.

“Mandy!”

Her footsteps are soft over the carpet as she hurries to the bathroom.

“Salinger? Salinger, what the—” The door opens a crack.

“Eep!” She jumps back out of view behind the door.

“Your dog, that’s what.”

The animal lets out a whine.

“Oh, Pepper, come. Come!”

The dog ignores her.

“Get in here now and get that animal.”

Mandy makes that squeaking nose again. The corgi sneezes.

“I can’t. You’re not wearing any clothes.” She’s still hiding behind the door.

“Mandy…” Warning laces my voice.

The door creaks open. Mandy, hand over her eyes, takes a hesitant step inside.

“It’s under the vanity.” I point.

Mandy walks into a wall.

“Oof.” Groping around with her free hand, she begs, “Pepper, come on. You know you can’t be in here. We talked about this, remember?” Her hip bangs into the side of the vanity. “Ow!”

“A few feet to the left.” I run some product through my hair. I’m not one of those men who rolls out of bed, washes their hair once a week with dish soap, and calls it a day. It takes time to look like someone you would trust with billions of dollars.

“Pepper!” Mandy’s voice is pleading. “Pepper, please just get out of there.”

“Christ.” Grabbing the robe that hangs on the back of the door, I shrug it on, sidestepping her as she walks straight into the glass door of the shower.

“Uncover your eyes.” I tie the belt.

“Nuh-uh.”

“Mandy.”

Her fingers spread slightly, and her brown eyes peer at me.

“I’m wearing a robe. Get your animal. This is absurd.”

Mandy’s still peering through her fingers, and she gropes under the vanity, trying to grab the dog. It. Does. Not. Want. To. Leave.

It makes a wheezing sound as she finally drags it by its back feet out from under the vanity.

“I’m so sorry about that, Salinger.”

Mandy’s corgi side-eyes me as Mandy tries to scoop it up with one arm.

“You see me every day,” I remind the dog.

Its lip curls up.

“Mandy.” I point to her dog.

“She went out before I brought her up.” Mandy sounds out of breath.

“No. It looks crazy.”

The whites of the dog’s eyes are showing, and her ears are laid back against her head.

“That’s just how she is,” Mandy says.

“She’s not going to freak out at the charity function. Is she? Do you have medication for her or anything?”

Kneeling down in front of the dog, Mandy whispers, “Let’s try and keep it together. I’ll take you to Olive Garden for a personal plate of pasta, no garlic. But not ’til after the event because I know you’ll get an upset tummy.”

“This is going to be a fucking disaster,” I say to the ceiling. “And where is my date?”

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About Author Alina Jacobs:

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

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

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

http://alinajacobs.com/mailinglist.html

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Bookbub / Instagram

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

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For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Her Fake Boyfriend by Heatherly Bell ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: July 25, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: ,
5

 

Her Fake Boyfriend

by Heatherly Bell

 

(Charming, Texas, #7)
Published by: Harlequin Special Edition
Publication date: July 23rd 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Her Prince Charming…

In a make-believe fairy tale?

Talented divorce attorney and town newcomer Michelle LaCroix needs roots in Charming to make partner, according to her old-fashioned boss. And that means a boyfriend! Problem is, she’s got to produce her beau in the flesh. Enter the town’s most eligible bachelor, former professional athlete Finn Sheridan, who’s only too happy to play pretend with his best friend’s ex—for a price. To his surprise, the more he’s thrown together with Michelle, the more he’s intrigued by a woman who’s far more than her ice-queen exterior. But with Finn’s trust still shattered by a brutal divorce, the make-believe match is just a fun diversion…until it becomes all too real!

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

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

~~~~~

Enjoy this peek inside:

“There you are, Boo!” Michelle ran over and threw her arms around him.

Finn seemed to freeze in place, his arms remaining where they’d been at his side. “Huh?”

“Please,” she hissed in his ear. “Go along with this and I’ll make it worth your while.”

“Go along with what?”

“Long story, I’ll explain later. For now, pretend you’re my boyfriend.”

Hands on her waist, he set her back a step, eyes narrowed. “Have you been drinking?”

“No. I wish! Listen, there’s someone here I need to impress.”

“With me?” He quirked a brow.

“Well, you’ll do.”

He scowled. “I’m not interested in pretending. I know you’re a lawyer and this is your life but the rest of us don’t lie to people daily. Excuse me.”

He tried to step aside but she grabbed him by the lapels of his navy peacoat and planted a kiss on him. Nothing too crazy as she wasn’t big on PDA especially when she actually knew people were watching. Arthur hadn’t taken his eyes off them since she ran over here. Still, Finn’s lack of resistance surprised her. So did the buzz through her body. Finn was not a terrible kisser, as it turned out. And dear Lord he smelled good.

When she broke the kiss Finn was staring at her with mossy green eyes. It was a look that said he thought she should be committed to the nearest mental hospital, and the idea made him a little sad.

Well, she could work with that.

About Author Heatherly Bell:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

 

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Stranded And Seduced by Emmy Grayson ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: July 24, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: ,
5



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Stranded and Seduced

by Emmy Grayson

 

 

(The Diamond Club, #8)
Publication date: July 23rd 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

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In this red-hot forced-proximity romance from Emmy Grayson, if they can’t escape one another, what chance do they have of resisting one another?

He doesn’t want his inheritance…
but he does want her!

Griffith Lykaois has rejected his family’s billion-dollar legacy. It’s a fitting punishment for his guilt over his father’s death. Only, estate lawyer Rosalind Sutton won’t quit. Amid a raging storm, the infuriatingly alluring woman is on his remote château doorstep determined he claim his inheritance.

Rosalind needs Griffith’s signature; the career she put her life on hold for depends on it. But stranded alone with the brooding tycoon, there’s no way innocent Rosalind can escape her response to their intoxicating clashes… The question is, does Rosalind even want to?

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

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

DEAR READER

Dear Reader,

When I was invited to be a part of the Diamond Club series with Harlequin Presents, I was thrilled. When I learned that my romance was going to be inspired by Beauty & the Beast, I nearly shrieked. This fairy tale is one of my favorites, and the first movie I ever saw in theaters (well, a third of it—my father had to take me out because I kept screaming at the wolves!).

Writing Griffith and Rosalind’s love story, set against the backdrop of the Normandy coast, was a dream come true. Recreating the Beast’s castle, and adding a major dash of spice to a tale as old as time, was so much fun. I loved researching French chateaus, especially the Château de Gudanes in southern France. This restored home was not only a physical inspiration but a personal wonder as I learned how much restoration the castle has undergone in recent years. It was a treat describing the French retreat Griffith and Rosalind find themselves trapped in as they finally succumb to the attraction simmering between them.

I hope you enjoy reading their love story. Have a wonderful summer, and happy reading!

Love, Emmy

—

Enjoy this peek inside:

Griffith Lykaois traced a finger over the scar that cut through his right eyebrow, skimmed the corner of his eye, and sliced over his cheek. Another scar stretched from the side of his mouth down to his chin, surprisingly smooth to the touch. Still a visible angry red slash even when he combed his beard to cover it. As he sat in the leather high-back chair by the balcony doors, a glass of whiskey within reach, he could picture his ghoulish visage in his mind as if he was looking in a mirror. The past eleven months had faded the scars to dull pink. But time hadn’t dimmed the memory of the first time he’d seen himself. Stitches crisscrossing the fresh wounds. Eyes bloodshot and unfocused from the medication they’d pumped into him.

“Monstrous.”

 

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.

When Emmy isn’t writing or reading, she’s chasing around her two kids, feeding her menagerie of fur babies or carving out a little time on her front porch with her firefighter hubby.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

 

GIVEAWAY!

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To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Cover Reveal And Giveaway ~ Forever To Fall by Libby Kay

Posted: July 23, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Cover Reveal, Giveaway Hop
Tags: ,
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 Welcome to Buckeye Falls, where second chances mend broken hearts for
these childhood sweethearts. Wedding bells are ringing, but the sister of the groom
is conflicted.

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Forever to Fall

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Buckeye Falls Book 5

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by Libby Kay

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Genre: Sweet Contemporary Romance

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Welcome to Buckeye Falls, where second chances mend broken
hearts for these childhood sweethearts.
Wedding bells are ringing, but the sister of the groom is conflicted.

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Fifteen years ago, Mallory Lawson “married” her childhood sweetheart, Beckett, in a
pretend wedding on his family’s apple farm. She treasures not only the memories, but the ring he put
on her finger. The trouble now, her brother, Evan, wants to put that family heirloom on his fiancée’s
finger. Mallory adores CeCe, but she struggles to get past her girlhood fantasies of Beckett swooping back
into her life with a certain ruby ring…

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Beckett Fox is at a
crossroads. After losing his grandfather, he’s listless and fearful
of coming back to the family farm. There are too many memories, and
most of them are tied to the love of his life, Mallory. He doesn’t
even know if she remembers that fateful day when they were kids,
playing make-believe under the apple trees, but he does. Now he’s
back to help his buddy get married, and he hopes to find peace on the
family farm, with Mallory by his side…

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When the wedding planning kicks into high gear, Beckett and Mallory are thrust
together as maid of honor and best man.
The more time they spend together, the harder it is to ignore the
sparks between them. Beckett fears
Evan won’t support him dating Mallory, so the pair date in secret.
But true love won’t stay hidden forever…

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Best-selling author Libby Kay’s Buckeye Falls Series reminds readers of small-town life
where everyone knows each other.
Fans of Sharon Sala’s Blessings, Georgia series and Susan Mallery’s
Fool’s Gold series will fall in love with Buckeye Falls and the
childhood sweethearts who are tired of hiding their feelings. Come
for the wedding and stay for the whole series.

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**Releases Aug 20th – PreOrder Now!**

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Amazon
* Apple
* B&N
* Kobo
* Bookbub
* Goodreads

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 Libby Kay lives in the city in the heart of the Midwest with her
husband. When she’s not writing, Libby loves reading
romance novels of any kind. Stories of people falling in love nourish
her soul.

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Contemporary or
Regency, sweet or hot, as long as there is a happily ever after—she’s
in love!

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When not surrounded
by books, Libby can be found baking in her kitchen, binging true
crime shows, or on the road with her husband, traveling as far as
their bank account will allow.

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Libby cohosts the
Romance Roundup podcast with Liz Donatelli where they recommend
romance books and interview authors, influencers, and publishers.
Check it out for your weekly dose of romance!

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Website
* Facebook *
Instagram *
Bookbub *
Amazon *
Goodreads

.

.

 

Follow the reveal HERE for special content and a giveaway!

.

 

a Rafflecopter 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.

Truth And Dare by Ann M. Trader ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: July 16, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: ,
35

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Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for Truth And Dare organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Author Ann M. Trader will award a randomly drawn winner a $20 Amazon or B&N Gift Card. on’t forget to enter!

And you can click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

Truth And Dare

by Ann M. Trader

 

 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis

A bright and talented environmental engineer, Goldie Vreeland understands facts and figures, but Max Corda, her secret office obsession, remains a puzzle. On the eve of a business trip to a coastal island, fate intervenes, pairing her with her sexy crush. As she thinks about sharing the same space with Max for a week, her world veers dangerously off course.

Fueled by success as engineer and president of his family’s firm, recently divorced Max needs to jumpstart his life. When his father unexpectedly assigns him to Goldie’s project, his closely guarded attraction to her comes front and center. Thoughts of spending a week alone with this beautiful intelligent woman make his internal compass glitch.

Romance stirs with the island breeze, so simple when they’re hundreds of miles away from normal. But as Goldie and Max return to reality, will they discover real love is more than a game?

Enjoy this peek inside:

A trio of knocks interrupted my thoughts, and I glanced at my watch. Right on time. My shoes—timeless black Italian leather pumps worth every dollar I doled out on them—clicked on the parquet tile as I approached the door…and opened it to him.

Max’s muscular frame filled the doorway, a mesmerizing vision, sexy as hell and completely effortless on his part. He had the lean, sculpted torso and long legs of a runway model, but none of the cushy edges. I leaned on the door, imagining his physique was every tailored suit’s dream. Every woman’s, too. I swallowed a tiny sigh, convinced God must’ve cashed in all His chips when He created Max Corda.

I straightened, holding my purse in my hands. “Hi.”

“Hello,” Max said, smiling.

I caught myself gazing at his lips a little too long, and looked away, praying I wasn’t wearing a blush to match my heated cheeks.

“You look lovely.” He crossed his arms, the move accentuating the breadth of his chest. “I know we’re here on business.” His gaze skimmed up and down my body. “But when you come to the door looking like this, Shembery’s integrated water management strategies are the last thing on my mind.”

My breath hitched, awestruck his thoughts mirrored mine. I’d studied Max to distraction for seventeen weeks, four days—no, make that three—and I liked him. Very much.

About Author Ann M. Trader:

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I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring recipes on the lighter side of southern comfort foods. I’m a member of Heart of Carolina Romance Writers, and I love relaxing on my back porch to read and write. These days I take walks around my neighborhood, but when I was sixteen, I hiked the Grand Canyon with a group of friends. I love watching television dramas (in no special order): Palm Royale, The Buccaneers, The Bear, Mary and George, Emily in Paris, Outlander, Shrinking, Shogun, Bridgerton, Outer Banks, Stranger Things, The Crown, and Peaky Blinders and reading a great romance book.

Author Links: Website / Amazon / BookBub / Facebook / Goodreads / Twitter

Purchase Link: Amazon

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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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