Posts Tagged ‘romance’

A Buckeye Falls Christmas By Libby Kay ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 22, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways, Holidays
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Will it be a Christmas to remember, or will their
holiday get plowed away?

 

A Buckeye Falls Christmas

A Buckeye Falls Novel

by Libby Kay

Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance

On the first day of Christmas, Buckeye Falls gave to me…

A snow storm…

Uninvited dinner guests…

A Christmas pageant…

And a friends’ reunion dinner to warm your heart.

It’s been ten years since five couples found love in this charming small Ohio
town. Families and careers have grown, but the love remains the same.

Max is hosting Christmas at the diner, a final sendoff before the beloved
hangout gets a facelift. But the risk of a snow storm and a few uninvited
guests threaten everyone’s plans. Will it be a Christmas to remember, or will
their holiday get plowed away?

Revisit your favorite couples in this holiday novella, which includes favorite
recipes from the series. Warning: this story will make you hungry and may cause
uncontrollable swoons.

Amazon
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Ginny kissed Max’s cheek, tasting his tears on her lips. “Max, honey. This rarely happens. C’mon, Henry’s going to be the lead in the Christmas pageant. He’s a tough kid, just like his father.” She punctuated her statement with another kiss.

Max coughed and wiped his eyes with the back of his hand. “Oh yeah, I’m a real macho man.”

“Yeah, because you know they’re my type.” Ginny theatrically rolled her eyes.

“I shudder to think of what your type is,” Max said, gesturing at his current state. His eyes were red, he was covered in dirt and dog kibble, and he probably could stand another few hours of sleep.

Ginny leaned back, tapping her chin. “Well, let’s see. I like a man who can take care of me and my children. Someone who can cook, like really well. And it would be nice if he was a small business owner and took care of my father like his own. Oh, and if he’s also best friends with my best friends, that would be perfect.” Ginny huffed and pulled herself to her feet. “Looks like that’s a pretty tall order.”

Max snatched Ginny’s hand and pulled her onto his lap. “Okay, Mrs. Sanchez. Point made.” He kissed his wife, relishing in the fact they were still together after all these years. Life wasn’t always perfect, but it was from where he sat. “I need to get to the diner and start working on the menu for Christmas.”

Ginny kissed him one more time before pulling back. “And I’m needed in the office.”

“Love you, Gin.”

“Love you more.”

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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.

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

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Portals Of Science And Magic By Liz Cain ~ Series Spotlight And Giveaway

Posted: December 22, 2024 in giveaways, Romance, urban fantasy
Tags: , , ,
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A heart-pounding adventure, and a conflict that could
shatter worlds.

When science and magic collide so do two realms that were
never meant to meet. When a connection is created between the human and fae
kingdoms, both races must learn to work together to restore the balance.

A Kingdom of Water and Destiny

Portals of Science and Magic Book 4

By Liz Cain

Genre: Urban Fantasy Adventure Romance

Destinies combined. A goddess freed. The possible end of
two worlds lies at their feet.

war that began thousands of years ago is brewing once more. Sacrifices made by
the ancients, and millennia of planning, all comes down to a group of
‘outcasts’ amongst the fae. The fate of the worlds lies with a lower fae
treated as less than simply for being born, twins raised by humans, and a
prince. If the fae refuse to follow them, then their world will perish. A life
of a seer is in the shadows, not interfering with those you love. But Silene
has spent decades preparing for a war that could destroy the world she loves.
Her power has taken a toll, and with the end in sight, she musters her
remaining strength to help her friends and family survive.

Silene will give up everything to ensure the fae world is saved. Even if in the
end it costs her everything.

Amazon
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A Kingdom of Fire and Delight

Portals of Science and Magic Book 3

A lost fae princess. A family united. A world on the
brink of war.

Rebecca works with her colleague to fix the equipment that
can send all the fae home. While Alexy searches for the lost princess, the two
worlds are soon to be torn apart, and something doesn’t feel right. Will Kaval
have to leave behind the love he’s found?

When the dark fae finally break into the lab, all chances of escape to the fae
realm hangs on the brink of collapse. Rebecca and Kaval must fight to survive,
there is little hope they will make it out alive.

Rebecca must dig deeper than ever before to find the strength to save herself,
and the fae she loves. Even if she is only human.

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

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A Kingdom of Earth and Devotion

Portals of Science and Magic Book 2

Forgotten on Earth . A chance to return home. A love she
never expected.

Abandoned on Earth for over a century, Alexy has yearned for
a chance to return home. However, her duty to safeguard the fae world’s secrets
kept her tethered to Earth. Everything changes when she unexpectedly befriends
Rebecca, the co-worker of a brilliant physicist who is on the verge of
unraveling the secrets of interdimensional portals.

An accident transports a fae from Alexy’s homeland to Earth,
endangering his kingdom’s very existence. Alexy must help her friends return
him before his kingdom falls. As unimaginable powers surge through her, Alexy
grapples with the truth she has concealed from her friends. With betrayal and
peril lurking in every shadow, she finds herself standing at a crossroads.

To preserve everything she holds dear and expose her true self, or doom the two
realms. She must decide.

Amazon * Bookbub * Goodreads

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A Kingdom of Air and Duty

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Portals of Science and Magic Book 1

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A scientist’s assistant. A
portal to a new world. A strange male she never should have met.

Venture into the unknown with
Rebecca, the brilliant assistant to renowned physicist Howard Bristol, as they
open a portal to the fae realm. When the portal explodes and leaves behind a
mystery creature, Rebecca must shelter this unusual being, known as Kaval.

In a race against time, Kaval and Rebecca desperately seek a way to send him
back before he attracts dangerous attention. As a malevolent presence hunts the
newcomer, threatening their every move, Rebecca finds herself entangled in a
battle not only against their adversaries but also against the irresistible
pull of this enigmatic stranger. Journey through a spellbinding urban fantasy
where the lines between science and magic blur, and the power of friendship and
love become the ultimate weapons against the encroaching darkness.

Prepare to be swept away by an epic tale of two beings who should never have
met.

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Liz Cain is an urban fantasy writer and NHS frontline staff.
She was born in East Yorkshire in the UK and grew up near the sea with her
parents and two sisters. She moved to the midlands, which was much too far
south for her, graduating from Leicester University with a degree in Physics
and going on to complete an MSc in Medical and Radiation Physics. She has
worked in the NHS since 2008 as a Nuclear Medicine Clinical Scientist, helping
with cancer treatment and diagnosis.

She has traveled at every opportunity from Thailand and
Australia to touring national parks in North America. Liz has done lots of
crazy things for charity, including skydiving, running, swimming, and even
cutting off her hair. While out on adventures she finds herself weaving
intricate tales in her head which one day she had to write down.

Liz has loved reading her whole life, growing up with Anne
McCaffrey, Mary Stewart, and Terry Goodkind. Becoming an author happened by
chance when she jumped at the opportunity to help a friend tell a story that
deserved to be told. It inspired her to follow her lifelong dream and now she
has published books with her coauthor Anne K. Whelan in the fantasy romance and
paranormal romance genre, finally taking that last step and publishing by
herself in 2023.

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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.

Brian And Mina’s Holiday Hits By Kitty Thomas ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 19, 2024 in comedy, Excerpt, giveaways, Romance
Tags: , , ,
0

 

Brian and Mina’s Holiday Hits

by Kitty Thomas

 

 

Publication date: December 18th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Dark Romance, Romance

“Be honest with me, Brian. Are we going on a cross-country killing spree?”

“I’d hardly call it a spree.”

Brian Sloane is a pure psychopathic monster… to everyone but Mina.

She was looking for a good man to scratch a particular itch but instead ended up bought by the violent enforcer of a submissive training house.

Against all odds, the villain became her hero. She was the light to his dark until the lights went out, and the darkness inside her came out to play.

Now they’re both killers, chasing the blood lust, running toward their demons, each hit job more dangerous than the last. From a twisted Easter hunt, to an explosive Fourth of July, from a deadly masquerade ball, to an even deadlier Krampus run, culminating in the Do or Die Valentine’s Day Kill that will either seal their doom or their happily ever after.

Do killers even deserve a happy ending?

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

It’s after dark when we arrive at the Windsor Estate. The heavily guarded iron gate extends around Drake Windsor’s massive property which seems to go on for miles. I grip Brian’s arm and lean in to whisper in his ear as we walk along the well-lit path up to the front door.

“What about weapons?” I whisper.

“No weapons,” he says. “They’ll pat us down and send us all through a metal detector inside.”

“Then how in the f**k are we going to do this? Are you planning to kill him with your bare hands?”

Brian shrugs. “I could. He’s too refined to get his own hands dirty. He’s old money.”

“What does he do? Besides hiring assassins to kill all his enemies.” You’d think Brian would have listed this man’s profession on the murder wall.

“Oil magnate.”

“Is that even still a thing?”

“Apparently,” he says.

“I thought you’d tell me he was in the tech industry.”

Brian laughs. “I said old money.”

“Fossil fuel. Checks out.” Dinosaurs are for sure old.

I stop talking as we get closer to the house. It’s so big, even the word mansion doesn’t quite cover it. The security detail are all big burly guys wearing suits and electronic ear pieces. They give us both a once over, their eyes staying on me a bit longer than is actually necessary.

The first one pats Brian down, and then goes for me, but Brian closes a tight grip over the man’s wrist.

His voice is low and calm when he speaks. “Elvin, I swear to every power living and dead that if you touch her, you will not survive to see your daughter’s first Christmas.”

The guard swallows hard. “I have orders…”

“You have metal detectors. You and I both know that’s the real security. This pat down business is just security theater—a display of Windsor’s power and nothing more. You think about whether it’s worth your life to participate in this charade.”

He nods. “Go on in, Mr. Sloan.” Then he nods at me, “Ma’am.”

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About Author Kitty Thomas:

KITTY THOMAS writes dark stories that play with power and have unconventional HEAs. She began publishing in early 2010 with her bestselling COMFORT FOOD and is considered one of the original authors of the dark romance subgenre.

To find out FIRST when a new book comes out, subscribe to Kitty’s New Release List: KITTYTHOMAS.COM

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Take Me Home For Christmas By Tracy Solheim ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 15, 2024 in Excerpt
Tags: , ,
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Take Me Home for Christmas

by Tracy Solheim

 

(Chances Inlet Contemporary Romance, #5)
Publication date: December 12th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

In the quaint coastal town of Chances Inlet, Christmas is a time for rekindling lost connections . . .

Elinor “Elle” McAlister is on the brink of a big-time promotion that will finally put her on equal footing with her overachieving siblings. The catch? She has to babysit a notoriously prickly war reporter who’s late delivering his memoir. As if that weren’t enough, her editor banishes them both to Elle’s hometown on the Carolina coast to get the job done. Spending the holidays in Chances Inlet might have been fine—if only she hadn’t wrecked the most important relationship in her life during her visit last Christmas.

Deputy Sheriff Hayden Lovell has known Elle was his person ever since she swiped his purple crayon back in kindergarten. Through every twist and setback, her steady friendship has been his anchor, especially after he returned from combat with wounds that run deep. But everything changed last New Year’s Eve when Elle surprised him with a kiss, stirring feelings he didn’t realize he had. Now that she’s back in town and keeping her distance, Hayden wonders if that moment meant as much to her as it did to him.

Chances Inlet has a knack for bringing people together. With Christmas around the corner, can Elle and Hayden rewrite their story before the holiday spirit fades? Join them in a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and the magic of second chances in a town that knows how to celebrate Christmas like no other.

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Do you know who Everett West is?” Madelaine asked.

Everyone with access to a television knew who Everett West was. He’d been a globe-trotting war reporter for the past thirty-five years.

“He’s writing his memoir,” Elle responded. “We are serializing it in the magazine. The number of readers downloading the chapters has quadrupled over the past three months.”

Helen beamed at her. “Impressive. You know your stats about other aspects of the magazine besides your own.”

“The serialization is meant to whet the appetite of readers in hopes of getting them to order the book when we release it in July,” Madelaine explained.

“The problem we have,” Helen added, “is that Everett hasn’t quite finished the manuscript despite signing a contract stipulating he would complete it by the first of this month.”

“Oh.” Elle looked between the two women, still unsure what this had to do with her.

Helen shook her head. “Mm. Men aren’t always good at keeping their promises as I’m sure you are aware, Elinor.”

Whoa!

Was Helen apologizing for her worm of a grandson?

Madelaine leaned forward in her chair. “We need Everett to finish this book by the end of the year, or the magazine will run out of material to serialize.”

“And we won’t have any way to fulfill those preorders,” Elle added.

“Exactly!” Helen slapped her palm on the table.

Elle continued to gaze at the two women, trying to divine some sort of explanation as to why they were telling her this. “That’s a serious problem for the entire company.”

“Everett doesn’t seem to be able to focus on the manuscript here in New York.” Madelaine sighed. “Too many distractions.”

“Too many cronies to go out drinking with, you mean,” Helen muttered.

If Madelaine agreed with her boss’ sentiments, she was too professional to show it. “We need him to go someplace quiet, someplace with a lot slower pace and fewer diversions so he can buckle down and get the job done.”

The man had reported from deep below the ocean inside a Polaris submarine, while rumbling along in a tank in Iraq, and even while embedded in the Afghan desert with special forces. Surely, he didn’t need a convent to finish his memoir? He already knew the ending, after all.

“Do you need me to research some potential places?” Elle asked.

“No, no, dear girl.” Helen waved a hand. “In fact, Jeremy gave me the most brilliant idea earlier this week when we met for dinner. He was reminiscing wistfully about the wonderful times he spent when you two visited your mother’s inn in North Carolina.”

Elle tried not to bristle. Why would Jeremy be “reminiscing wistfully” about the Tide Me Over Inn? He only visited there twice. Now that she thought about it, both times he found something to complain about—from the inn to Chances Inlet. He’d found the whole town to be “provincial.”

“My mother’s inn? You want Mr. West to go there to finish his book?”

Both women nodded.

“Um, sure. I’m happy to check with her to see what openings she has. Christmas time is usually as popular as the summer months in Chances Inlet, though. I can research some backup inns just in case.”

Please, Mom, don’t let your inn be full.

“No need.” Helen grinned. “I’ve already spoken with your mother. She’s arranged a suite for Everett through the end of the year.”

“Oh.” Elle was surprised her mom hadn’t said something to her. “That’s great. Do you need me to make any other arrangements for him?”

“Everything is all taken care of.” Helen stood. “You’ll both be flying out first thing tomorrow. Everett has less than five weeks to finish his damn book. I’m counting on you, Elinor, to see that he does. If it comes down to it, chain him to a chair. Stand over him twenty-four hours a day. Whatever it takes.” She gave Elle’s shoulder a gentle squeeze as she walked past. “I know you’re up to the task.”

The publisher was out of the room before Elle realized the impact of her words.

“Wait. What?” she whispered. “No, no, no.”

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About Author Tracy Solheim:

USA Today bestselling author Tracy Solheim writes books with shirtless men on the cover. Some of them are actually best-sellers. The books, not the men. When she’s not writing, she’s practicing her curling. . . bottles of wine, that is. She’s been known to cook dinner but no more than two nights in a row. Most days, she’d rather be reading, which to her is just necessary research. She lives in the suburbs of Atlanta with her husband and a neurotic Labrador retriever. Her two adult children visit but not often enough. (See the note above about cooking.) Check out her romantic suspense series featuring the Men of the Secret Service–shirtless, of course! See what she’s up to at www.tracysolheim.com

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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.

A Christmas Dream By Shanna Hatfield ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 14, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , ,
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A Christmas Dream

by Shanna Hatfield

 

 

(Hudson House Holiday, #1)
Publication date: November 14th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

He came to build the house of his dreams, but found a home for his heart.

After an extensive search for the ideal location to build a house he’s spent years designing, Brant Hudson knows he’s found the perfect site the moment he sets foot on the land near Silver Bluff, Oregon. However, frustrating delays leave him laboring alongside the very crew he hired to finish the house in time for Christmas. His work leads the woman who catches his eye to believe he’s a carpenter rather than the owner of the grand manor.

Holland Drake grew up on a farm, but she aspires to secure a position as a housemaid at Hudson House. While delivering lunch to her brother at the worksite, the door opens to a job when Holland encounters a strikingly handsome carpenter whose charm captivates her. Soon, Holland discovers the enchanting man is none other than the owner of the house and her new employer.

As the holiday season arrives amid a flurry of excitement and possibilities, Holland and Brant face choices that could change their lives forever. Will fear hold them back from stepping into the future together, or will their Christmas dreams of love come true?

A Christmas Dream is the first book in the Hudson House Holiday series of wholesome, heartwarming Christmas romances full of the joy of the season.

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

Another thirty minutes passed, during which time Brant envisioned thick slices of smoky ham encased between fluffy biscuits hot from the oven as he worked. He was just about to suggest to Remington they take a break for the noon meal when a woman as pretty as any Brant had ever encountered breezed into the room carrying a large basket covered with a blue-checkered cloth.

“Denver! I thought I’d never find you in this colossus of a house. I saw Colin outside, and he said you were in the library, but so much has changed since the last time I was in here, I thought I might wander around lost until you starved to death.” The woman’s gaze shifted from the carpenter on the second floor, taking in Brant and Remington as they hastily stood. “Oh, hello.”

Denver scrambled down the ladder where he’d been working on the trim at the top of a bookcase. Brant was surprised he didn’t fall and break his neck the way he skipped the last four rungs, using just his hands on the sides of the ladder to slide to the floor. It was a trick Brant intended to have Denver teach him another day.

“Holland, I didn’t know you were coming today. I would have met you outside.” Denver glanced nervously from the young woman to Brant, and then back to the fetching female as he raced down the spiral staircase.

The woman shrugged. “We wanted to surprise you.”

Did Denver have a wife and children awaiting him at home in Silver Bluff? In the three years of Hudson House’s construction, Brant had gotten to know the names of every worker and thought he had a thorough mental list of those who were married and those who were not. How had he overlooked Denver’s family? Especially when the man had such an attractive wife?

Shiny brown hair she wore pulled back from her face, fastened with a ribbon at the nape of her graceful neck, fell in glorious waves to her waist. Freckles splattered a narrow, upturned nose. Her bottom lip, fuller than the top, rested in a natural pout that was most alluring. Her brown eyes snapped with intelligence and interest when they landed on Brant again. Her features were delicate and decidedly feminine, and she owned such a happy countenance, it made Brant want to smile just being in the same room with her.

Denver Drake was a most fortunate man if the woman holding a basket from which delicious aromas emanated was, indeed, his wife.

“Who might this be, Denver?” Brant asked, taking a step closer to the couple, curious and oddly interested in the answer.

“Holland Drake,” Denver said, taking the basket from the woman and giving her a slight nudge forward.

A wave of disappointment washed over Brant. So, she was married to Denver.

“My sister,” Denver continued.

The desire to raise his fist and cheer was almost more than Brant could contain, but he managed to tamp down his victorious feeling and school his features into what he hoped was a welcoming expression. The lovely woman was not married, at least not to Denver.

“Miss Drake,” Brant said, closing the distance between them and taking her hand in his. He raised her slender fingers to his mouth, pressing a kiss to the back of her hand while holding her gaze.

Her eyes widened slightly, though he could see curiosity lingering there, and she quickly pulled her hand away. “I haven’t seen you working around the house before. Are you new?”

It was on the tip of Brant’s tongue to tell her the truth. To say he was the one who would eventually live in the house that had once been a dream scattered across multiple sheets of paper. Instead, he decided he wanted to get to know this woman, not as the owner of a fancy home, but as one of the many men helping to build it.

“I’m not new, but help was needed in the library today.” That wasn’t a lie, but the stark truth. He and Remington would likely contribute countless hours of physical labor if the house was to get finished by his own self-imposed deadline prior to his sister’s holiday arrival.

“Mister …” Denver started to speak up, but Brant gave him a brief shake of his head along with a warning look. The young man swallowed hard and nodded once in understanding. “Mr. Hudson is hoping to be able to use the library soon. It will also serve as his office, and he’d like it to be the first room completely finished. That’s why we’re all working so hard to make that happen.”

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About Author Shanna Hatfield:

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

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

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

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

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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 ~ It’s Mother-Pucking Christmas By Alina Jacobs

Posted: December 12, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , , ,
1

It’s Mother-Pucking Christmas!

by Alina Jacobs

 

Publication date: November 21st 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

When your grandmother stalks the star hockey player on the rival team because “You need a husband, Dakota—you’re not getting any younger!” it’s Christmas crazy on ice.

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It is not, however, the start of our great love story.
I don’t date guys on that team.
He doesn’t do casual, drunken hookups, which is all the captain of the Icebreakers is getting from moi.

I give him the finger and tell him I hope he loses his teeth out there.
He smirks and wins the game because both this Christmas season and this hockey season are a fucking scam.

Then my younger, much dumber brother informs me that he owes his bookie a bunch of money and really needs the Icebreakers to lose their next game, and could I pretty please be an amazing big sis and date their captain then break his heart so he’ll suck and lose the game—otherwise little bro will get killed, or worse, our mom will find out.

As much as I eye roll my overly large, overly loud family, I’d do anything for them.
Including date the captain of the Icebreakers.

Barf.
Ryder is a Boy Scout. He doesn’t swear. He uses words like ma’am and sir. On our date, he opens my door, pulls out my chair, and helps me with my coat. He even volunteers at the local animal shelter and loves handmade sweaters.
No, it is not cute! Three warm, gooey cinnamon rolls dressed up as a six-five, hot AF hockey player are not my type.
At all.
Nope.

Santa better bring me something nice this Christmas for all my pain and suffering!

In bed though?
Let’s just say sleeping with the captain of the Icebreakers… is not going to be a problem.

Goodreads / Amazon

~~~~~

Enjoy this peek inside:

“You’re stalking my client,” Hudson yelled at the old woman, who was completely unfazed by his anger.

My teammates’ eyes bugged out like the pugs’, then they all collapsed, howling with laughter, at my feet. Even Coach snickered into his gloves.

“You’re the Crusher?” My mouth dropped open. “You’re the one who’s been stalking me for the last five months?”

“Stalker? Pshaw!” Granny Murray was offended. “I’m not stalking anyone.”

“You’re going to be arrested.” Hudson bore down on the woman.

“Don’t arrest my grandmother,” Dakota snapped at him.

“She’s stalking him.” Hudson made a knife hand in my direction. “Do you know how much goddamn money this woman has cost me?”

“I’m not stalking. I’m leaving him presents and nice notes,” Granny Murray shouted.

Hudson slapped a hand to his forehead. “Notes? They’re fucking pornographic.”

“Now see here.” Granny Murray wagged her finger at the tall man. “I’m just trying to rile him up for Dakota.”

“You frightened him, Gran,” Gracie scolded.

“Oh my god.” Erik gasped at my feet, holding his side. “College Boy is afraid of a little old lady.”

I sputtered, “Shut your mouth, Canada.”

“Are you going to ‘oh heck’ him?” Pete snickered.

“Sonny, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. You seem like a nice boy.” The old woman patted me on the arm.

Hudson slapped her hand away.

“As an apology present”—she grabbed Dakota and pushed her toward me—“I will let you have sex with my granddaughter. She puts out, and her boobs are real.” She squeezed Dakota’s chest.

“Oh, uh…” I rocked back on my skates. “That’s very kind of you, ma’am, but no. No thank you.”

Dakota had the nerve to look offended.

My teammates’ mouths dropped open, then they laid into me.

“Who the hell are you?”

“Fucking Boy Scout.”

“Come on, Ryder!”

“Jesus Christ, College Boy.”

“Dude!”

“Shame! Shame to the family. Shame to the team…” Rick slapped his glove.

“I’m not having relations with her,” I stammered. “I don’t even know her.”

Dakota raised an eyebrow.

Pete muscled up to Dakota. “I’ll take the apology present, beautiful. I have a very nice hotel suite—hot tub, big bed. Expense account.”

“No! No expense accounts,” Coach barked.

Erik shoved Pete aside. “How about a two-for-one deal?”

Dakota looked interested. The pretty brunette put her finger to her lips like she was seriously thinking about it.

I sucker punched Erik.

“Hey!” Coach slapped the back of my head.

I didn’t even feel it.

“You’re not sleeping with her. Certainly not both of you, ingrates,” I snarled.

“Ooh, College Boy is mad!” Rick giggled.

“All of you, shut the fuck up!” Coach yelled. “Shaddap!”

I sniffed.

“Ryder, you’re kind of a prude.” Coach turned on me. “Dial it back. You’re almost thirty, for Chrissake, and for someone who says he wants a family, you’re about as effective as a panda in that department.”

Mike applauded.

“But they’re trying to… you know… with a fan. That’s against the rules,” I argued.

Coach sighed loudly.

“Oh.” Dakota piped up. “I am definitely not a fan. In fact, I hate your team. Arctic Avengers all the way. I’d never date the captain of the motherfucking Icebreakers. I will, however, sleep with you all.” She blew me and my teammates a kiss.

“Fuck that!” My friends refused. “We’re not traitors.”

“Dammit, Dakota!” Granny Murray scolded, “All that work down the toilet.”

“Definitely snatching defeat out of the jaws of victory,” Gracie said.

Dakota scowled.

“Well, that is how the Arctic Avengers do it.” I sneered at her.

Dakota gave me the finger. “I hope you lose all your teeth out there.”

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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

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One Night Stands And Lesson Plans by M. Jane LaDow ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 9, 2024 in Excerpt, giveaways, Romance
Tags: ,
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Welcome to my stop on the virtual book tour for One Night Stands And Lesson Plans organized by Goddess Fish Promotions.

Author M. Jayne LaDow will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B&N Gift Card to a randomly drawn winner. Don’t forget to enter!

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

One Night Stands And Lesson Plans

by M. Jane LaDow

 

 

Genre: Romance

Synopsis

In the close-knit town of Marchfield, where gossip spreads faster than a teenager’s texts, English teacher Audrey Fremont and Algebra instructor Oz Taylor find themselves at the center of a scandal—and a romance neither saw coming.

A few too many drinks at Happy Hour and a glimpse of his infuriatingly sexy shoulders lead to a one-night stand that should have ended there—but didn’t. Relentlessly organized and a bit of a perfectionist, Audrey is horrified to discover that Oz is one of her new coworkers. Yet, stolen glances in the hallway, moments in the copy room, and snarky banter make keeping it “no strings attached” nearly impossible to maintain.

With meddling friends and nosy colleagues already placing bets on their romance, Audrey and Oz can’t ignore the chemistry simmering between them. But just when Audrey thinks she’s got everything under control, a surprise confession from Oz leaves her questioning everything she thought she knew about love.

In a town where everyone’s watching, Audrey and Oz must decide: will they keep playing it safe, or risk their hearts on a love that could change everything?

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 Enjoy this peek inside:

The wind turned, and the warm night air chilled. Clicking open the locks on my car, I tried to get in and drive away. Slowly, I turned to scan the area for Oz. He stood by his truck, watching me with his hands in his pockets. His eyes were dark, and I could feel the heat of his stare.

I should have waved goodbye, hopped into Green Lightning, and headed home. I should have taken a cold shower and written in my journal all the reasons why we should Never Ever, Get Back Together. Thanks, Taylor Swift.

I should woman up.

But there he was, giving me sexy, smoldering eyes as he leaned against his truck. He looked like a modern-day cowboy, all hard and rugged after a day on the ranch. I have always had a thing for cowboys. They were hard, tough, weather and work-worn on the outside but warm and loyal on the inside.

The logical side of my brain warned me to stay away, but he’d lassoed me with an invisible rope. I stepped toward him and watched his eyes widen, and his chest rise as he drew in a deep breath. It was all the encouragement I needed to close the space between us.

I stood inches from him, staring into his eyes, searching for a sign. His mouth hitched up on the right side, and I felt myself rise up on my toes, my hands on his wide shoulders, and kiss him.

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About Author M. Jane LaDow:

M. Jayne LaDow is a playwright and author who leapt into writing romance after spending thirty-three years wrangling middle school English students. Her rom-coms are hilariously inspired by her years in education, where she was regularly pied in the face, sang classroom karaoke, and dressed up like characters from novels. She resides with her very patient husband, two brilliant yet snarky children, three cuddly rescue cats, a toe-biting tortoise, and a bearded dragon who judges her life choices from his terrarium.

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Like It’s Christmas By Diana A. Hicks ~ Spotlight And Giveaway

Posted: December 9, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , ,
8

 

Like It’s Christmas

by Diana A. Hicks

 

(Winterstorm Village, #1)
Publication date: October 29th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Historical, Romance

At Winterstorm Village, a record-breaking blizzard always ends in a wedding before the season is over. This year promises to bring the mother of all snowstorms, and the residents couldn’t be more excited to see who’s next to tie the knot…

Rhett Parker hates Christmas. When the Mayor of Winterstorm has an unfortunate accident and ends up in a coma, Rhett is left hanging with the proverbial Santa Gift Bag. To make matters worse, the only one who can help him save their money-making tourist season is his office nemesis, Ms. Christmas cheer in a bottle, Parker Cruz.

Parker Cruz, the Mayor’s daughter, is determined to save Christmas now that her dad isn’t there to make it all happen. The only person standing in her way is the town’s Scrooge, the newly appointed Mayor, Rhett Parker.

She’s willing to do whatever it takes to make good on her promise to her dad. So, when a series of unlucky events strike, and the residents start talking about canceling Christmas, Parker does the unthinkable. She agrees to a fake date with her new boss.

Love is always in the air during the holidays at Winterstorm Village. So what if this year it’s all pretend? Or is it?

Goodreads / Amazon

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Jesus, a date?” Rhett reached over and yanked the pen out of my hand.

“Hey.” I turned to glare at him.

“You need to slow down.” He tossed the pen over his shoulder. “What are you going to do when people want us to kiss?”

“Why would they even ask? That would be creepy. Relax, it’ll never come to that. At most, we’ll have to hold hands.” I stopped to inhale and give him a chance to catch up.

He rubbed the creases on his forehead as he paced to the fireplace and back. Every time, he glanced up at me, his intense gaze would settle on mine. He was really considering all the angles. How about that? We actually made a good team. I was the idea instigator. He was the executor.

“Proximity.” He finally said.

“What does that mean?”

“Can you handle it?” He cocked his head.

“What?”

He prowled toward me as his eyes darkened. Was he mad now? No, that wasn’t it. Rhett was doing the smoldering thing on me. Shit, I swallowed to ease my dry throat. Okay, I could do this. I was a professional. He stopped a mere two inches from me. We’d never been this close before. Oddly enough, I wasn’t repulsed by it. It was nice.

“I’m not nauseous.” I lifted my head to look at him. “You?”

He jaw clenched, then released, his gaze never leaving mine.. “It’s doable.” He nodded then reached behind me.

I glanced over my shoulder and followed his line of sight. “What are you doing?” I asked when he pressed the intercom button.

“Lila, can I see you in my office, please.” He released the button and turned to me. “Getting the ball rolling.”

“Lila is Mrs. Birdwhistle’s God daughter. She’ll be Lila’s first call. And then…”

“And then, the whole town will know.” He brought his hand up to my waist. “Last call to back out, Cruz. It’s now or never.”

“Never.” I placed my hand on his chest just as he leaned in to press his forehead to mine.

My heart drummed so hard, I swore I heard its echo against the walls. Once Lila barged in on us, we would have to follow through on our lie, all the way to New Year’s eve. How hard could it be?

“Omigod.” Lila dropped her iPad. “I’m sorry.” She bent down to retrieve it then fell to her knees while trying to reach for her Mac pen. “I’m sorry. I didn’t meant to…um, the door was opened.”

“It’s fine. I was just leaving.” I tentatively stepped away from Rhett. I hadn’t considered how much touching we needed to do to convey our message. As it was, it already felt like I’d been in Rhett’s arms for a very long time.

For his part, Rhett slowly released my waist and let his fingers skim the length of my arm until they landed in my palm. Our bodies moved with such synchronicity, I didn’t have time to react to the goosebumps fluttering my skin or jerk away from him. I just stood there, spellbound.

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About Author Diana A. Hicks:

Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.

When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / X / TikTok

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Made To Last By A. S. Kelly ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 7, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: ,
15

 

Made To Last

by A.S. Kelly

 

(Love At Last, #5)
Publication date: December 4th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Allow me to introduce myself.
My name is Tommy O’Doherty, and I’m madly in love.

Too blunt, you say? Seriously, why lie?
Everyone seems to know about it already. The gossip about my major crush on my best friend’s neighbour has spread like wildfire.
And I have to admit, I didn’t do anything to stop it.

Not everyone is as good at pretending to be a playboy—even if the most they can handle is a PlayStation—like my weird colleagues and messy friends. Not everyone can keep it together when they meet the sweetest, most sensitive, and most wonderful creature on Earth.

Too bad she doesn’t see herself that way. Too bad she doesn’t believe my words, my kisses, my caresses, or my romantic gestures. Too bad she’s not ready to believe that what we have is real and that I’m not just her backup boyfriend, but the man who truly wants to be with her.

Even though I keep telling her that we are made to last, I’m starting to think she will never believe me unless I am willing to show her in a dramatic and obviously questionable way that I’m serious and that there is no better man for her than me.

Each book in the Love At Last Series is standalone:

– Last Call
– About Last Night
– One Last Kiss
– The Last One
– Made To Last

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks

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Enjoy this peek inside:

I walk into her place and shut the door, but I linger in the doorway as Ivy heads to the kitchen. She returns two minutes later with a vase full of flowers. She places them on the coffee table next to the couch and then looks at me.
“Did you really say you’re into me?”
“Totally. I said I’m totally into you.”
Ivy bites her full red lip, her eyes bright, emotional, and surprised. The perfume she’s wearing wafts through the air, making me lose my lucidity for a moment, and…
And she’s already messed up my head.
You know that, right?
All I need is that twinkle in her eye, that slight flush on her face as she realises I can’t take my eyes off her. All I need is that anxious breath that seems to be a reflection of my own. All I need is this silence, filled with images to capture and moments to write about. All I need is to know that she wanted this as much as I wanted it.
I don’t know how long it takes to realise that the person in front of you is the one you want next to you. I’m already there.
Am I completely insane, or am I unexpectedly wise?
Only time will tell.

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About Author A. S. Kelly:

A. S. Kelly writes Rom-Com, Romantic Fiction and Family Saga.
Avid reader, hopeless romantic, lover of yoga, knitting and home baking.
She was born in Italy but lives in Ireland with her husband, two children and a cat named Oscar.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / X / Bookbub / Newsletter

 

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For a list of my reviews go HERE.

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New Beginnings In Twinkle Falls By Freda Ann ~ Peek Inside And Giveaway

Posted: December 7, 2024 in Contemporary Romance, Excerpt, giveaways
Tags: , ,
10

New Beginnings in Twinkle Falls

by Freda Ann

 

(A Twinkle Falls Novel)
Publication date: December 12th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

A sweet, inspirational, small town romance with holiday cheer and a happy ending.

Kylee Croft is a single mom to the sweetest little girl anyone could ask for. Growing up in Paris, the most romantic city in the world, to Kylee it felt like a rite of passage to one day marry the man of her dreams.

Now living in Twinkle Falls, she appreciates the ease of small town life and how people look out for one another, though getting to know the sister and father she never knew existed is the icing on the cake.

Trace Holburg was one happy man after marrying his first love seven years ago. Soon after, his family felt complete with the birth of their twins. But he received a rude awakening when his soon to be ex-wife left him and the boys for a life of alcoholism. After the divorce and getting sole custody of his boys, he swore he’d never marry again.

Kylee has been dating Trace for over a year but worries the man she’s fallen madly in love with is pulling away from her. To complicate things even more her daughter’s biological father shows up in Twinkle Falls.

Can this couple make peace with their past and find a future together, or does their fate lie elsewhere?

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks

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Enjoy this peek inside:

“Man, I suck at this,” I blurt out, while on a jog around the perimeter of the Fall Fair with Jesse. We started hanging out years ago after our sisters became BFFs.

“O-kayyy…” He elongates the word, briefly cutting his eyes in my direction. “Do you care to elaborate?”

“Ugh, at romancing a woman. It’s like I forgot how to do it, since I haven’t dated for years. Before Kylee, Roxanne was the only woman I’d ever loved. Actually, now that I think about it, I’m sure Roxanne put the moves on me first. Which means, I have no game. Dang, I’m doomed.”

“I assume you’re talking about romancing Kylee? Tell me what happened before I give my opinion on the situation.

Shaking my head as we run past a seven-foot scarecrow and two smaller ones along the jogging trail, I try explaining. “It’s bad; really bad,” I huff. “One minute, we were sipping wine and cuddling on the sofa after an amazing French meal she made, and the next, something completely different than what I had planned to say came pouring out of my mouth.”

“Oh, gosh, what’d you say?”

“I said something like… if it’s not clear that I want us to have a future together and to, uh, share a house so we can do more stuff like this—”

“Stop!” We quit running as Jesse steps to the side of the trail. “You’re right, you do suck at this.” He chuckles. “That’s the worst thing I’ve ever heard a guy say to the woman he loves. What was her response?”

“It wasn’t great. She didn’t say anything at first, so I added, unless it’s not something you want. Finally, she grabbed my hand and said she’d love for us to live in the same house, but then she looked confused after she said it.”

“Man, I can definitely see why. You need to watch some romance movies or something because you’re right, you have zero game with the woman you want to spend the rest of your life with.”

“Geez, thanks for the vote of confidence, buddy,” I quip. As we resume running, I’m suddenly feeling worse than I did before.”

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About Author Freda Ann:

Freda Ann is fondly known for her sweet/clean, HEA RomComs. Her loyal fans and reviewers have compared several of her books to Hallmark movies. Many have hit #1 in multiple categories after release.

She writes relatable, faith and family based love stories which include kids and adorable dogs. Her writing style appeals to people of all ages. Her books will take you on an emotional journey with likable characters, and dreamy settings you’ll wish you could visit.

After retiring from a career in the law enforcement field, Freda feels blessed to be able to write and self-publish her stories for everyone to read. She adores her large family, 5 children and 9 grandchildren, and hosts monthly family gatherings.

To hear about new releases, please follow her on Amazon and also on Goodreads.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / X

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

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