Blog Tour & Giveaway: Brokedown Cowboy by Maisey Yates

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Welcome to the tour for Brokedown Cowboy by Maisey Yates! Brokedown Cowboy is the second book in the Copper Ridge trilogy, a sexy new contemporary romance series featuring a small-town setting and gorgeous cowboys finding love unexpectedly.

BrokedownCowboy_Cover
Brokedown Cowboy by Maisey Yates

 

Title: Brokedown Cowboy
Author: Maisey Yates
Genre: Romance
Age: Adult
ISBN #: 9780373788422
Publisher: Harlequin
Imprint: HQN
Series: Copper Ridge Series, #2
Publication date: June 2015 (Official on sale date: 5/26/2015)
Format: Mass Market Paperback
Pages: 368
Price: $7.99

 

There are lines best friends shouldn’t cross, but in Copper Ridge, Oregon, the temptation might be too much…If practice makes perfect, Connor Garrett should be world champion of being alone. Since losing his wife he’s concentrated exclusively on his family’s ranch. Until Felicity Foster needs a place to stay and Connor invites her to move in temporarily. That’s what friends do. What friends don’t do? Start fantasizing about each other in their underwear. Or out of it…Since high school, Liss has kept her raging crush in check. But helping Connor rebuild his life only reinforces how much she longs to be a part of it. One explosive encounter, and she’ll discover that getting what you always wanted can feel better than you ever dreamed…




ABOUT THE AUTHOR
USA Today Bestselling author Maisey Yates lives in rural Oregon with her three children and her husband, whose chiseled jaw and arresting features continue to make her swoon. She feels the epic trek she takes several times a day from her office to her coffee maker is a true example of her pioneer spirit.In 2009, at the age of twenty-three Maisey sold her first book. Since then it’s been a whirlwind of sexy alpha males and happily ever afters, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Maisey divides her writing time between dark, passionate category romances  set just about everywhere on earth and light sexy contemporary romances set practically in her back yard. She believes that she clearly has the best job in the world.
AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Twitter @maiseyyates | Facebook | Goodreads



 

OTHER BOOKS IN THE SERIES
PART TIME COWBOY – Book # 1
PartTimeCowboy_Cover
BAD NEWS COWBOY – Book # 3
Bad News Cowboy

 

Jennifer’s Review of Brokedown Cowboy


Review (4 Stars):  I love stories where best friends turn into lovers and have the relationship that they have been waiting for.  Liss and Connor were two people who had given up on love because they experienced pain and loss in their past.  Liss moves in with Connor temporarily when she is forced to move suddenly and the sparks begin to fly once they spend time with one another in close quarters.  Liss was the perfect match for Connor because she pushed him to continue living when he was happy just to stay in his house and drink himself into oblivion every night. She made him feel things that he thought he would never feel again after the death of his wife and brought him back from the brink.  It was touching watching Connor come back to the man he used to be because of the love of one special woman.
Ms. Yates has always done a wonderful job on creating love stories that will definitely touch your heart. Liss and Connor’s story is the second installment in the Copper Ridge series and I was captivated watching them find their way to each other after all these years.  I missed Eli and Sadie’s story but I’m looking forward to catching up with them and the next book in this delightful new series.


GIVEAWAY

 

The publisher will be giving away paperbacks of Part Time Cowboy, the first book in the series  to the 5 winners of the below Rafflecopter.  The giveaway ends June 23rd.

 

This event was organized by CBB Book Promotions.

Kissin’ the week of June 1st-6th Goodbye

06.01.15

Audio Book Lovin’ Presents: Deborah Harkness’ All Souls Trilogy

Kimberly reviews Yield To Me by Sarah Castille

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Bushel Full of Murder by Paige Shelton

06.02.15

Audio Book Lovin’ Presents:  Guest blog by Jennifer Lyon + a giveaway

Sheldon interviews Roland about Alyssa the heroine from A Sorceress of His Own + a giveaway

Kelly reviews A Sorceress Of His Own by Dianne Duvall

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Ripped From The Pages by Kate Carlisle

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Once Pure by Cecy Robson

06.03.15

Audio Book Lovin’ presents: Lori Foster’s Love Undercover Series + a giveaway

Book Blitz:  Katee Robert’s The Marriage Contract

Spotlight Feature: Gena Showalter’s The Hotter You Burn 

Kelly reviews Spiraled by Kendra Elliot

Death by Coffee by Alex Erickson

06.04.15

Audio Book Lovin’ Presents:  Our interview with Kendra Elliot + a giveaway

Kelly reviews Moon Thrall by Donna Grant

06.05.15

Audio Book Lovin’ Presents: Dannika Dark’s ‘The Mageri’ and ‘The Seven’ series’

Kelly’s review of Nalini Singh’s Slave to Sensation

Kelly reviews Caress Of Pleasure by Julie Kenner

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Bodice of Evidence by Nancy J. Parra

06.06.15

SINsational Saturday Series

Gena Showalter’s The Original Heartbreakers series 

SINSational Saturday Series: Gena Showalter’s The Original Heartbreakers Series

The One You Want

The Original Heartbreakers 0.5

Heartbreaker 05

New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter introduces the Original Heartbreakers—about sexy bad boys each meeting their match—with a special prequel novella!

In small-town Oklahoma, reputation is everything, and Kenna Starr will do anything to overcome hers. The supposed bad girl is determined to walk the straight and narrow, a seemingly impossible task when Tall, Dark and Sexy shows up…

Rich and powerful, Dane Michaelson is every woman’s dream. When he returns to Strawberry Valley after a sixteen-year absence, he is unprepared for the redheaded girl he’s never been able to forget. She’s all woman now—and he’s never wanted anyone more. But to have her, he’ll have to break through her defenses… and surrender his own.

*****

The Closer You Come

The Original Heartbreakers #1

Heartbreaker 1

New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter introduces the Original Heartbreakers, where three not-quite-reformed bad boys are about to meet the women who will bring them to their knees.

Just released from prison, Jase Hollister has a dark and twisted past. And now, he has only one goal: stay out of trouble. Strawberry Valley, Oklahoma, sounds like the perfect place for him and his two brothers-by-circumstance to settle down and live a nice, simple life. But model citizen isn’t exactly this rugged bachelor’s default setting—especially when it comes to a certain hot-blooded Southern beauty…

Brook Lynn Dillon has always been responsible. Not that it’s done her much good. The down-on-her-luck waitress is broke, single and fun-deprived. Until Jase comes along. He is dangerous, stunningly protective, breathtakingly sexy and as tempting as sin, and the passion sizzling between them is undeniable. But can it melt her resistance? After all, the right kind of trouble might be just what they both need.

*****

The Hotter You Burn

The Original Heartbreakers #2

Release day July 28, 2015

Heartbreaker 2

New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter is back with another sizzling Original Heartbreakers story about an irresistible charmer about to meet his match…

Beck Ockley lives by a single rule: one and done. The millionaire playboy knows the pain of loss and will do anything to avoid another. He moved to the small town of Strawberry Valley, Oklahoma, expecting more of the same—time with the only two friends he trusts, work…and lots of pleasure. What he never could have predicted was that a vulnerable Southern beauty would sneak past his defenses.

Harlow Glass is determined to rebuild her life. The reformed bully has lost everyone and thing she loved, and paid the ultimate price for her checkered past. Now she wants commitment, the only thing Beck refuses to give. As their chemistry blazes white-hot, he’ll either have to break her heart…or surrender his own.

*****

The Harder You Fall

The Original Heartbreakers #3

Release day November 24, 2015

Heartbreaker 3

From New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter comes another scorching Original Heartbreakers tale featuring an aloof bad boy and the rowdy Southern belle who rocks his world…

Millionaire video-game creator Lincoln West has a dark and tragic past. The sought-after bachelor lives by a rigid schedule and a single rule—one relationship per year, lasting no more than two months. No exceptions. He moved to small town Strawberry Valley, Oklahoma, with his brothers-by-circumstance hoping to escape the worst of his memories—until a brash beauty dredges up long-buried emotions.

A reformed party girl, Jessie Kay Dillon is determined to walk the straight and narrow. But her love-hate sizzle with West is just too irresistible. They can’t be near each other without tearing off their clothes, but the last thing she needs is to be his next two-month dump. Can she be the one exception? Because as any former girl-gone-wild knows: rules are made to be broken.

*

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Bodice of Evidence by Nancy J. Parra

9780425270363

Blog Interview with Pepper Pomeroy

What new thing would you try? Scuba diving

What would make you say no? Sky diving

What do you get too much of? Chicago winter storms

And not enough? Sunshine

What fear have you conquered?Going into business for myself

Not Quite Yet? Failure

What are you getting better at? Sleuthing

What are you getting worse at? Time management

What would you pay good money for? A top of the line home office

What wouldn’t you take even if it were free? A vacation with my ex-boyfriend

Do you have a career highlight? Helping Warren plan my sister’s proposal

And low point? Turning down $10,000 for a proposal that wasn’t right.

What are you endlessly curious about? Relationships and falling in love

And zero interest in? Jogging

What do you empathize with? Wanting to make a proposal perfect

What do you have no sympathy for? Killers

What is worth the wait? Love

What do you have no patience for? People who don’t believe in romance

What’s always cool? True love

What’s never cool? Murder

About the Author:

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Nancy J Parra AKA Nancy Coco is the author of 19 published novels which include three mystery series: The Gluten-free Baker’s Treat Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), The Candy Coated Mysteries (Kensington), and The Perfect Proposal Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime).  Her writing has been called witty and her protagonists plucky by reviewers around the world.  Nancy is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America and writes for the Killer Character Blog on the 8th of every month.  Nancy loves to hear from readers. Find her at www.nancyjparra.com

 

 

9780425270363Pepper’s new wedding proposal planning business, Perfect Proposals, seems like a perfect fit. If only shopping for her sister Felicity’s bridal gown could be so simple.

After a long day of lace, tulle, and tears, Pepper, Felicity, and their mother pull it together to try one last bridal boutique. Maybe they’ll be surprised. And indeed they are—when they enter a deserted shop and soon discover the owner of the boutique slain in the alley out back.

Distressed by their proximity to the crime, Pepper vows to unveil the killer. As difficult as it is to draw a pattern from the clues, it’s still easier than finding Felicity’s perfect wedding gown. But as the killer begins to feel hemmed in, Pepper may be the one brought to her knees…

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Bodice of Evidence

Review (4 Stars):  Pepper is such a firecracker and you can’t help but adore her spunky personality in these mysteries.  Pepper is in the planning stages of her sister’s wedding and they are having trouble finding the perfect wedding dress for Felicity.  At one of their bridal appointments, Pepper finds the body of the bridal boutique owner and has another mystery on her hands.  Now she must find a killer as well as help Felicity find the perfect dress or this dream wedding may be permanently postponed.

Bodice of Evidence is a delightful addition to such a fun new series and I love spending time with Pepper.  In this mystery, she has taken on the task of helping her sister find the “perfect” wedding dress and is having difficulties making what her sister envisions become a reality.  I remember the madness involved in planning your wedding and wanting everything to be perfect.

Ms. Parra does a great job with these characters and shows the humor involved with these festivities and not just the chaos.  The mystery was well-written and enjoyable and I love how Pepper’s new relationship with Gage is progressing nicely so we may see wedding bells in her future as well.  I love this series and I think readers will too once they actually get spend time with Pepper.  Can’t wait to read the next one in the series.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Bodice of Evidence. This giveaway is for US Residents only.  To be entered in the drawing by June 13th, please leave me a comment below:

To celebrate the upcoming release of Shards of Hope here is another look at Kelly’s review of Slave to Sensation (book 1)

Berkley has repackaged Slave to Sensation to help celebrate the upcoming release of Ms. Signh’s 14th book in the Psy-Changeling series SHARDS OF HOPE (Berkley Hardcover; June 2, 2015).  So to help I am re-posting my review of Slave to Sensation along with the new cover.   Enjoy.   And keep reading to the end Berkley is doing an awesome giveaway.

25578836TITLE: Slave to Sensation
SERIES #: Psy-Changeling #1
CHARACTERS: Lucas Hunter & Sascha Duncan
AUTHOR: Nalini Singh
NARRATOR: Angela Dawe
PUBLICATION DATE: September 5, 2006
AUDIO RELEASE DATE: April 26, 2011
RUN TIME: 9 hours & 39 minutes

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N | Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Dive into a world torn apart by a powerful race with phenomenal powers of the mind—and none of the heart…

In a world that denies emotions, where the ruling Psy punish any sign of desire, Sascha Duncan must conceal the feelings that brand her as flawed. To reveal them would be to sentence herself to the horror of “rehabilitation”— the complete psychic erasure of everything she ever was….

Both human and animal, Lucas Hunter is a Changeling hungry for the very sensations the Psy disdain. After centuries of uneasy co-existence, these two races are now on the verge of war over the brutal murders of several Changeling women. Lucas is determined to find the Psy killer who butchered his packmate, and Sascha is his ticket into their closely guarded society. But he soon discovers that this ice-cold Psy is very capable of passion—and that the animal in him is fascinated by her. Caught between their conflicting worlds, Lucas and Sascha must remain bound to their identities—or sacrifice everything for a taste of darkest temptation

REVIEW: 4 Hearts
This was my second read/listen to this book. But I decided that I really wanted to tackle Nalini’s Psy-Changeling series. This first book was really good. Lots of world building, history and foundation that needs to be laid for us to understand this world. But the story between Lucas & Sascha really heats up the pages. Anyone that can have those types of dreams is okay in my book 🙂
I really loved Lucas’ character. As Alpha of his pack he has to be strong. But Lucas was strong even before he was alpha. Although he was a little broken too. I hope that we get to see glimpses of these two in future books.
I loved Sascha, even if at times I wanted to shake the Psy out of her. But if she was not Psy and struggling with her emotions the story would not be as good.

The narrator Angela Dawe did a really good job with the reading of this book. This was my first book I have listened to narrated by Angela. My only complaint was that the splicing between chapters was way too fast. But I do plan on listening to the second book in this series on audible too.

Disclaimer:
This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Audio Book Lovin’ Presents: Dannika Dark’s ‘The Mageri’ and ‘The Seven’ series’

Dannika has created a world with unique characters and abilities. While both series are PNR, they each are a blend of genre. The Mageri Series blends genre with Urban Fantasy and Contemporary. Viviana has said several times, The Seven Series, reads like a Contemporary, with PNR elements.
As for the audio books, Nicole has brought another dimension to the story! I could go on and on, but I’ll let you learn more about the each of the series by scrolling down and listening to the samples below! There’s a surprise as well! And don’t forget to enter the giveaway!!! 
THE MAGERI SERIES

Sterling

The Mageri Series #1

Zoë Merrick lived an ordinary life until the night she was brutally attacked. She narrowly escapes death, rescued by Adam Razor, an ex-soldier who offers her friendship and a place to stay. But something else is different. Zoë is unable to control an unexplainable energy coursing through her body.

Justus De Gradi is a man who can teach her that control. She meets him by chance – a man who’s handsome, arrogant, and not entirely human. He reveals that she’s a Mage – an immortal made of light, not magic. Zoë must now make a choice: Rebuild her life in the human world with the man who saved her, or live with Justus and learn how to use her extraordinary gifts. Justus has sworn an oath to protect her life, but can he guard her from the one man who has a right to claim it?

Zoë learns the price of freedom…and the value of loyalty.

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Twist

The Mageri Series #2

Months after moving to the mysterious city of Cognito, Silver is developing her gifts as a Mage and learning how to live under new laws. She is forced to give up her old life and live in secret among the humans. There is finally hope of leading an ordinary life . . .

Until Logan Cross walks into it.

Their chance meeting leads her close to discovering the identity of the nameless Mage who once stole her light and discovered the unique power she possesses. That knowledge poses an unimaginable threat to Silver, fueling the search to find out who he is before he finds her.

Lives are at stake. Truths are revealed. And an unexpected passion ignites.

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Impulse

The Mageri Series #3

Almost one year ago, a Mage attacked Silver and changed the course of her destiny.

Immortals exist, and now she is one of them.

Within the dark and supernatural city of Cognito, Silver is living under the watchful eye of her Ghuardian and dating her mortal enemy. Neither man can protect her from a dark secret, one buried within the contents of a box. As rival factions struggle to gain control, she finds herself in the middle of a centuries-old feud that threatens to drive a wedge between her and Logan Cross, the man who intends to seduce her.

In an explosive turn of events, one life is saved and another is forever altered. Can Silver trust those around her, or are they hiding a dark secret of their own?

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Gravity

The Mageri Series #4

When a choice is made, it will forever alter the course of our destiny. It cannot be undone, for fate is a river changing direction and carving away the bed of our hearts like everlasting fractures.

A difficult past has left Silver broken, but she is learning to trust again through Logan Cross, a Chitah who has convinced her that a dangerous man can change. Their conviction for each other will be put to the ultimate test when an old nemesis reappears and flips her world upside down. Will Logan be able to tame the animal within, or will he succumb to his impulsive nature?

The ongoing investigation into Breed experiments unveils a shocking secret about Silver’s past. Standing at a fork in the road, Silver is forced to make a decision. Each comes with consequence, and there is no turning back.

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Shine

The Mageri Series #5

Love is infinite.

Hate is absolute.

In the short span of a year, Silver has gone from becoming a Mage to discovering the truth about her unique genetics. Logan Cross went from her mortal enemy to her immortal lover, but a threat is fast approaching like an inevitable storm. Attacks are underway against the Mageri and one man is behind it—an elusive foe who is an unstoppable force. Nero is not Silver’s only concern as someone close to her is arrested for treason. In the midst of chaos, Silver discovers she cannot protect everyone from the wrath of fate, including her own Ghuardian.

Justus finally opens his heart, but an unexpected turn of events could darken his soul forever. Secrets are revealed that will leave you reeling from one twist after the next. Would you sacrifice everything for love?

Destiny has set sail and once she alters her course, no one’s life will ever be the same in this explosive conclusion to the Mageri Series.

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

 

THE SEVEN SERIES
Seven Years

It’s been seven years since Lexi Knight lost her brother in a tragic accident. On the anniversary of his death, her brother’s best friend shows up unexpectedly – a man she hasn’t seen since the funeral. He is no longer the boy Lexi once knew, but a dangerous-looking man with tattoos and dark secrets. He broke her trust and abandoned her family, yet what he reveals makes it impossible to stay angry. Lexi has been secretly infatuated with Austin since childhood, so finding out he’s a Shifter just makes him sexier. Dammit.

Austin Cole has returned to the city where he grew up, and just in time. He’s lived a hard life these past seven years, and the shadows of his past are threatening to destroy Lexi’s family. It’s time that she learned the truth about her brother, but there is a shocking twist that Austin never saw coming. Now he must protect her family when her mother and sister wind up in mortal danger. Will Lexi learn to accept the truth about who he is, and can Austin salvage a relationship from the ruins of their past?

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Six Month

Seven Series #2

April Frost is a compassionate young woman with a steady job and ambitious goals. But the harder she runs away from her past, the more it threatens to destroy her. When three strangers enter her life, April is forced to face her demons and it’s a battle she may not win.

Private investigators in the Breed world are men who take risks, and Reno Cole is no exception. As a Shifter, he’s expected to control his inner animal. But lately his wolf has been venturing dangerously close to the city, and he’s about to discover why. When Reno is reintroduced to a family friend, the attraction is immediate. April captivates him with her secretive eyes and resilient spirit. She’s also in trouble, and despite the fact she’s a human, Reno can’t turn his back on her.

April is caught between two worlds: One that threatens to bury her dreams and another that could fulfill them. Can she trust the wolf at her door and find the courage to overcome her demons?
Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor

Five Weeks

Seven Series #3

Destiny will find you.

Izzy has always loved the freedom and adventure of life on the road, but she’s recently decided to settle down—as much as a rogue wolf can. When her boyfriend gets her a job working at a hot Shifter bar, she runs into the last person on earth she expected to see again.

Jericho isn’t the famous rock star he once was, though he still plays in a local band and loves to party. Beautiful women come and go, but music is his only passion—until a sassy redhead named Isabelle Monroe shows up unexpectedly.

Fate reunites two former friends living with one foot in the present and the other in the past. But will they have a future when one of them is forced to choose between life and death? Old habits die hard, and sometimes the toughest addictions to shake are the ones that control our hearts.

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Four Days

Seven Series #4

Ivy believes every life must have balance, and during the past year, she’s found harmony living with the Weston pack. When an evil spirit from her past threatens her wolf, it sets off a chain reaction of events that alters the course of her destiny.

Lorenzo Church is a powerful, wealthy Packmaster who rules his pack through intimidation and order. He has vowed to never love a woman because love can destroy an empire. But chaos is fast approaching in the form of a Shifter named Ivy–a Native American, like him, who has invaded his dreams since the moment they met. She is spirited, wise, and unattainable.

In an unexpected turn of events, Ivy must choose whether or not to let go of the one person she has always loved. Lorenzo discovers the root of her courage but will never win her as his mate unless he learns to listen to his heart.

Destiny will find you

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

Three Hours

Seven Series #5

Naya James is a confident woman who also happens to be an exotic dancer. She doesn’t care if people judge her, just so long as they don’t disrespect her. Life has been good, but when two dancers from her club are kidnapped, Naya risks everything to uncover the truth.

Wheeler is the black sheep of the family, evident from his extensive tattoo collection to his dark personality. Nothing like his twin brother, Ben, who can do no wrong. Wheeler’s pack loyalty is put to the test when Austin orders him to act as a bodyguard for a woman he’s despised for years—one who presses his buttons every chance she gets.

A dark secret unravels, uniting two enemies and threatening to fracture the brotherhood of the pack. A tortured soul, a violent past, a fiery romance, and a shocking twist that will leave you breathless.

Destiny will find you

Purchase at Amazon | Audible | Tantor 

 

And now for the cover reveal for 
“Two Minutes (Book #6)”
 

 

Two Minutes
(The Seven Series, #6)
by Dannika Dark
 
Blurb: 
After years of living abroad, Maizy returns home to the only family she’s ever known—a
pack of wolves. When she confronts her childhood watchdog to see where they stand, his
resentment leaves her uncertain about where she really belongs.
Behind Denver’s charming smile is a tragic past—one that’s made his wolf savage and
unpredictable. Only Maizy has been able to tame that darkness, and when they’re reunited after many years apart, he no longer sees a child he once protected. She’s captivating and intelligent—a woman with the world at her fingertips and two suitors offering more than he ever could.
Torn between two worlds, Maizy must choose how her fairy tale ends. Tragedy, murder, passion, and imprisonment all collide with a heart-stopping twist.
Destiny will find you.
Release Date:
August 18, 2015
Available for pre-order at
   

 

About the Author
This is the segment where you learn a little more about who I am, so here’s what I can tell you:  I drink copious amounts of vitamin water placed precariously close to my laptop while writing. These are two healthy habits I have no intention of breaking. I’m a transplant living in the south, but I was born in the 70’s to a military dad who moved us around the world.
When I’m not writing (which is all the time), I’m hunting down Indie music, watching movies, reading, eating Tex-Mex, discovering new ways to humiliate myself bowling, and burning up my laptop battery on the Internet. I have a relaxed, easy-going personality and don’t like drama. I live with a cat who thinks she is a dog, or a goat (she eats plastic, so I’m not sure which).
Throughout my life, I’ve had insomnia. Counting sheep never worked and eventually I would imagine those sheep were the sole source of food after an apocalyptic battle where only thousands survived. I made up stories in a futile attempt to bore myself to sleep. The problem was, I got so wrapped up in my “head stories” that I would continue them through the following nights, changing it up each time to make it more exciting. Eventually, I started writing my ideas down – creating short stories, and then I discovered my love for poetry.
It’s almost embarrassing how many spiral notebooks and stacks of paper I have of poetry and lyrics.
Another passion: digital art. I design all my book covers, marketing, and series art. I’m a very visual person and pursued photography as an avid hobby for many years.
I am not a YA author (I feel like I have to state this only because I’ve had a few people ask), but I think it’s wonderful there are so many books available to teens in Urban Fantasy and Paranormal.
I am finally doing what I have always wanted to do: giving my characters a pulse through writing full time. I focus on adult urban fantasy romance, but I don’t like labels and I enjoy blending genres to break out of the confines of predictability.
But it’s what I love to do.
Danni
You can stalk, I mean find Dannika here:
            
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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audio Book Lovin’ Presents: Our interview with Kendra Elliot + a giveaway

Viviana from Enchantress of Books and I are super excited to have the very talented Kendra Elliot on our blogs today to talk about her wonderful Suspense Romance books on audio.  

Audio Book Lovin Banner

Kendra, what do you love/like about audio books?

My favorite thing is that it widens my reach. I reach more readers/listeners by being available in audio. I hear from people who physically cannot read a book and they’re very grateful that I’m available in audio. For my own preferences, I don’t like to listen to them…I can’t stand being read to out loud. Even when my husband tries to read me a snippet from a magazine, I say, “Just let me look at it!”

Tell us what involvement do you have in getting your novels turned into audiobooks?

My publisher does everything. I just cheer them on.

How is your narrator selected for your novels?

Book one in the Mason Callahan series
Book one in the Mason Callahan series

Good question! Over ten novels and novellas, I’ve had multiple narrators. I know on my Callahan & McLane series, they’ve made it a priority to use the same duo for narration, but I’m not sure of my publisher’s selection process on the others.

What information/guidance do you provide to the narrator?

The duo that does my Callahan series reaches out to me each time before they start and asks if I have any guidance. I usually don’t. They have confirmed how to pronounce a few of the Pacific Northwest locations like Willamette. It’s not willa-met.

I am so glad they asked you that.  I just listened to another story and the pronounced Willamette wrong.  If you are from Oregon you will understand.  

Kendra's debut novel.  Book one in the Bone Secret series.
Kendra’s debut novel. Book one in the Bone Secret series.

Do you listen to your audiobooks after they are finished?  Why or why not.

NOOOO! When my debut novel came out, I thought it’d be cool to listen to the audio sample on Amazon. I lasted it through two sentences. Those are my words! I don’t know how to explain it…it was too odd. It’s probably similar to how my brother felt when he tried to read one of my books. He said he could hear my voice talking in his head, and he simply couldn’t continue.

If you have one book in your backlist that is not already on audio, which novel would you want to be turned into an audio book.

I started to list VEILED, one of my novellas. But I just double checked on Amazon and it is available in audio. I love my publisher. They’ve made it a priority to get everything I’ve written into audio.

If you could pick one person (male or female) to narrator your life who would it be and why?

Novella #1 in the Rouge River series.
Novella #1 in the Rouge River series.

How about Morgan Freeman? I could listen to him read the phone book.

For anyone who has not listened to an audiobook before.  What would you tell them to try to convince them

to listen?

I firmly believe everyone should try it. Clearly it’s not for me, but I have friends who are huge readers  and absolutely love audio too. They listen while working out or during their commutes. You might be missing out on something fabulous.

 

 

 

Here are a couple samples of Kendra’s books:


Order Vanished here: Amazon | Audible | BrillanceAudio

*****


HERE Order Hidden here:  Amazon | Audible | BrillianceAudio 

*****

 

Order Her Father’s Grave here: Amazon | Audible 

 

Kendra Elliot-4621-Color-Lg.horiz.cropA little about Kendra:

As a kid, I read and read and read. Laura Ingalls, Nancy Drew, and Trixie Belden were my close companions, and I was never without a book in hand. Today, mysteries are my primary reading genre. I enjoy Lee Child, Karen Rose, Robert Crais, and Tami Hoag. But I also love a sweeping historical novel by Diana Gabaldon or a contemporary romance by Rachel Gibson.

I decided to try my hand at writing a novel after I read a newspaper article about NaNoWriMo. Heck, I can do that. I sat down and wrote a contemporary romance but kept tripping over dead bodies in each chapter. I got the hint and my stories evolved into romantic suspense.

I joined my local Romance Writers of America chapter, the Rose City Romance Writers, and found a fabulous community dedicated to educating its members about writing and publishing. Book purchases are tax deductable?? I also belong to International Thriller Writers and the Kiss of Death Chapter of RWA.

In 2010, my manuscript, Stronger Than Bone (HIDDEN), was a finalist in RWA’s prestigious Golden Heart® contest. My third book, BURIED, won the Daphne Du Maurier award for romantic suspense and was nominated for the 2014 International Thriller Writers’s award for Best Paperback Original and Romantic Times Magazine’s best Romantic Suspense of 2013.

I grew up in the lush Pacific Northwest and still live there with my husband, three daughters, two cats, and a Pomeranian. I am fascinated with forensics, refuse to eat anything green, and love a good Mai Tai on the beach on Kauai.

Learn more about Kendra and her books here: WebsiteFacebookTwitterGoodreads

And make sure to check out all of Kendra’s books on audio HERE

 

 

Kendra’s Giveaway

I’ll give a CD or MP3 file of the winner’s choice of any of three of my novels in audio.

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*****  11351457_10206765468964836_1041234886582456808_n   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audio Book Lovin’ presents: Lori Foster’s Love Undercover Series + a giveaway

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Love Undercover #1

When Detective Logan Riske goes undercover to find Pepper Yates, a potential link to his best friend’s unsolved murder, he vows to gain her cooperation by any means necessary. But the elusive beauty is more suspicious—and in far more danger—than he expected. And the last thing Logan needs is to start caring for her…Pepper has spent years dodging the corrupt club owner who will stop at nothing to keep her silenced. She can trust no one, not even the handsome new “construction worker” who’s moved in next door. The heat between them is undeniable. But will surrendering to passion bring her the safety she so desires—or will her feelings for Logan draw them both into a killer’s crosshairs?
Purchase here:  Amazon | Audible |RecordedBooks

*****

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Love Undercover #2

A cop’s craving to know more about the woman next door could prove fatal in the steamy new novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster.As the person responsible for taking down a brutal human trafficker, Alice Appleton fears retaliation at every turn. No one knows about her past, which is exactly how she prefers it…until the sexy cop next door comes knocking.Detective Reese Bareden thinks he knows what makes women tick, but his ever-elusive neighbor keeps him guessing like no other. Is his goal to unmask Alice’s secrets? Or protect her from a dangerous new threat? One thing is certain: their chemistry is a time bomb waiting to explode. And with no one to trust but each other, Reese and Alice are soon drawn into a deadly maze of corruption, intrigue and desire-and into the line of fire.

Purchase here:  Amazon | Audible | RecordedBooks

*****

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Love Undercover #3

An alpha hero’s attraction to the one woman he can’t have could draw him into a killer’s snare in the sizzling new novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster Charismatic bar owner Rowdy Yates isn’t the kind of man women say no to. So when he approaches waitress Avery Mullins, he fully expects to get her number. However, the elusive beauty has her reasons for keeping her distance—including a past that might come back to haunt them both.Avery spends her nights working for tips… and trying to forget the secret Rowdy is determined to unearth. But when history threatens to repeat itself, Avery grows to rely on Rowdy’s protective presence. As the sparks between them ignite, she will be forced to choose between the security she’s finally found… and the passion she’s always wanted.

Purchase here:  Amazon | Audible | RecordedBooks

*****

514xGJM-KPL._SL300_Dash of Peril

Love Undercover #4

A no-nonsense female cop reluctantly teams up with the one man who makes her lose control in a deliciously sensual new novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster…To bring down a sleazy abduction ring, Lieutenant Margaret “Margo” Peterson has set herself up as bait. But recruiting Dashiel Riske as her unofficial partner is a whole other kind of danger. Dash is 6’4″ of laid-back masculine charm, a man who loves life – and women – to the limit. Until Margo is threatened, and he reveals a dark side that may just match her own….Beneath Margo’s tough facade is a slow-burning sexiness that drives Dash crazy. The only way to finish this case is to work together side by side…skin to skin. And as their mission takes a lethal turn, he’ll have to prove he’s all the man she needs – in all the ways that matter.

Purchase here:  Amazon | AudibleRecordedBooks

 

To Enter Lori’s giveaway please fill out the following from.

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And don’t forget to enter our giveaway

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: Death By Coffee by Alex Erickson

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DEATH BY COFFEE

When Krissy Hancock and her best friend Vicki decide to open a bookstore café in their new town of Pine Hills, they decide to call it “Death by Coffee,” after Krissy’s father’s most famous mystery novel. Little do they know how well the name fits…

On their very first day of business, Brendon Lawyer huffily takes his coffee…to the grave. It seems he had a severe allergy to peanuts…but how could there have been nuts in his coffee? And who stole his emergency allergy medication?

Fortunately, Krissy’s love of puzzles and mysteries leads her not only to Officer Paul Dalton, but also to many of her new neighbors, who aren’t terribly upset that the book is closed on Brendon. But one of them is a killer, and Krissy needs to read between the lies if she wants to save her new store—and live to see how this story ends…

Amazon/B&N

About the Author:

ALEXAlex Erickson has always wanted to write, even at a young, impressionable age. He’s always had an interest in the motive behind murder, which has led him down his current path. He’s always ready with a witty—at least in his opinion—quip, and tries to keep every conversation light and friendly. Alex lives in Ohio with his family and resident felines, who provide endless amounts of inspiration.

Facebook/Twitter

 

Jennifer’s Review of Death By Coffee

Review (3.75 Stars):  I adored Krissy and Vicki in Death by Coffee and I loved the idea of a having a bookstore café be the focal point of this mystery.  Krissy had just opened her bookstore café when one of their customers ends up dead from anaphylactic reaction to peanuts and the emergency medication that could have saved his life is now missing.  Rumors are saying that Krissy’s café may be responsible for his death and now Krissy must figure out the clues to find the real killer before her dream business is closed for good.

Death By Coffee was a delightful fast-paced mystery and I loved all the quirky characters that helped to make this story more enjoyable.  I instantly connected with Krissy, who loves puzzles and thought she was the perfect heroine to solve this mystery. I love finding new authors and I am excited to read the next book in the series by Mr. Erickson.

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Spotlight: The Hotter you Burn by Gena Showalter

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to share with your Gena Showalter’s upcoming release of THE HOTTER YOU BURN.  We had a chance to ask Gena a question about The Hotter you Burn.  Enjoy!!!!

BnK: Harlow has many regrets about her past—do you have a regret about your high school experience?

GS: Oh, man, do I! If I could go back, I’d tell myself it’s not how pretty the guy is that matters, it’s how he treats me. I’d tell myself to be nicer to the people I love. They’re going to help me through some very tough times. I’d tell myself to stop freaking driving like I’m part of a race. Better I’m late than dead. I’d tell myself to spend more time with my uncle and grandparents. I’m not going to have much time with them. And after I told myself all that, I’d probably slap myself. Just because!

BnK: How has your writing grown over the course of your career? 

GS:  I’ve learned the books aren’t about me and the things that I want but about the characters and the things they need, and that, to find the right person, they have to become the right person.

THE HOTTER YOU BURN

The Original Heartbreakers #2

Scheduled release day July 28, 2015

The Hotter you Burn

Preorder here: Amazon | B&N |

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Gena Showalter returns with THE HOTTER YOU BURN (HQN Books, August 2015, $7.99 U.S./$8.99 CAN.), the second book in her new Original Heartbreakers series. Featuring the trademark wit, humor and compelling voice that Gena’s readers have come to expect, each book in the series focuses on one of three unrepentant bad boys and the women who make them change their ways forever.

Beck Ockley lives by a single dating rule: one and done. The millionaire playboy knows the pain of loss and will do anything to avoid another. And now that he’s moved to the small town of Strawberry Valley, Oklahoma, Beck expects only three things—time with the only two friends he trusts, work…and lots of pleasure. What he never could have predicted was that a vulnerable Southern beauty would sneak past his defenses.

Harlow Glass is determined to rebuild her life. The reformed bully has lost everyone and everything she loved, and she’s paid the ultimate price for her checkered past. Now she wants  commitment, the only thing Beck refuses to give. As their chemistry blazes white-hot, he’ll either have to break her heart…or surrender his own.

 

Excerpt 2:

 “I’d like to hire you to paint my portrait.”

Harlow almost bounced out of her seat, but caught herself with a single thought. Can’t appear too hasty. “Okay,” she said, playing with the edge of a piece of paper. “If you insist. And if the price is right.” She’d drawn countless images of Beck, but the thought of painting him to scale and seeing him in full color intoxicated her. She could play with different shades of gold, brown and bronze, and even a wealth of greens to get the emerald flecks hidden so deeply in his eyes just right.

Maybe Kimberly had nailed it. Maybe Harlow had stared at Beck for reasons that had nothing to do with the job.

“Name a figure.” He slowly, leisurely, walked back to the couch and eased down, the whiskey in hand. “Whatever it is, lollipop, I’ll pay it.”

The new endearment startled her, considering he hadn’t used one these past three weeks. The fact that he’d gone with lollipop, something sweet and edible he’d never called the others…

I’m special to him.

Oh, no, no, no. Red alert! Red alert! That was the true danger of him. Somehow, he made everyone feel special.

“That’s a daring thing to say,” she stated quietly.

“But true nonetheless.”

She placed her elbows on the desk and leaned forward. “Very well. The price is…” Inspiration struck, and she smiled evilly. “You can’t have sex for a week.”

His eyes narrowed to tiny slits, but he appeared far from angry. “Why do you care about my sex life?”

“I care about you, and I think abstinence will help build character.”

He didn’t miss a beat. “You care? Very well, I accept.” No time to celebrate. “With two caveats,” he added. “The week won’t start until the painting is done.” He smiled now, and it was a wicked one. “Also, I want the painting to be a nude.”

Her breath caught in her throat, only to exit on a gust. “I…you…excuse me?”

“A nude. Meaning I won’t be wearing any clothing. If you want to strip down, that’ll be okay too.”

This was punishment for daring to impede his sex life, wasn’t it? “I’ve never actually painted or even drawn what you’re suggesting, and I’m not sure I have the skill.” Or if she would survive.

“I have complete faith in your ability. And as an artist, a professional, I’ll expect you to view me strictly through objective eyes. You can do that, can’t you?”

“Of course,” she said. She could absolutely, one hundred percent view him through objective eyes…if he wore a cloak of invisibility. But even then it would be iffy. “Why do you want a nude?” she demanded, hoping to shame him into retracting his request.

“Maybe I enjoy the thought of disrobing for you.” His voice had gone low and husky, a caress of unfettered temptation, making her shiver. “Maybe I like the thought of your eyes on my bare skin and your hands forming the shapes of my body.”

She gulped. Having only ever dealt with boys, never with men, she had no idea how to respond to so blatant a statement.

“Or,” he said, his voice returning to its normal fun, flirty tone. “Maybe I’m narcissistic and want to immortalize every inch of myself. How is one to know?”

How indeed. “When would you like to start?”

“Tonight.”

I’m going to hate myself for reminding him of this, but… “What about your date? I can’t—won’t—hurt Kimberly.”

“I think we both know she was about to cancel on me. Which makes me wonder what the two of you were discussing.”

Shifting uncomfortably, she said, “I will never betray a confidence.”

“I could change your mind, but I won’t. I admire your mindset.” His gaze dropped to the pulse fluttering in her neck. “I’ll arrive at seven, and I’ll bring dinner.”

“Yes. I’d like that.” A lot. And it wasn’t the thought of food that made her heart race, but the thought of having him in her space. Alone…naked. Within reach.

She sucked in a breath. Oh…crap. The worst had happened, hadn’t it?

Kimberly had figured it out, but Harlow had done her best to deny it until the truth practically vibrated in her bones. How had she ever fooled herself into thinking she could fall for West…when she’d already fallen for Beck?

“What’s wrong, dove?” he asked gently. He came around the desk and sat at the edge, turning her chair to trap her between his legs. “You were twinkles one moment, sullen the next.”

He always read her so well, while she always struggled to make sense of his moods. Life wasn’t fair. “It’s nothing I want to discuss right now,” she said, refusing to lie to him. But she had to talk to someone about this.

Who? She had no confidants, and any secrets she revealed to others could be used as a weapon against her. A game of “humiliate Harlow for sport.”

“What will it take to get you to trust me, hmm?”

Was he serious? “Beck, for the past three weeks you’ve treated me like I’m a carrier of cholera. Why do you want my trust?”

“You’re my friend.”

But I want to be more. “Yes,” she said, and cleared her throat. “You’re right. I am.”

“So talk to me like a friend. Share your past with me. Tell me what changed you in high school.”

Her mouth went dry. Always they circled back to this. “Forget I agreed to be your friend. We’re enemies.”

“You’ll tell me what’s easy, but nothing that’s hard.”

“I don’t like to think about what changed me. It hurts.”

“Pain fades. Rip off the bandage and give the wound a chance to heal.”

“No.” If she told him, she’d have to show him. If she showed him, he’d never want her again. And right now he wanted her. He had to. The way he was looking at her…

He leaned down until his nose almost brushed against hers. “One day, Harlow, you’ll open up to me.”

“One day,” she whispered. “Maybe. But probably not.”

He cupped her nape, the heat of him making her gasp. “Definitely. And in more ways than one. I’ll make sure of it.”

 

Gena Author Photo 1A little about Gena: 

Gena Showalter is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author whose works have appeared in Cosmopolitan and Seventeen magazines, as well as Entertainment Weekly. Her novel Red Handed has been optioned by Sony Television. Critics have called her books “sizzling page-turners” and “utterly spellbinding stories,” while Showalter herself has been called “a star on the rise.” Her mix of humor, danger and wickedly hot sex provides wildly sensual page-turners sure to enthrall.

You can learn more about Gena here:  Website| Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Gift Idea’s for the Book Lover #34

Books-n-Kisses and I, Viviana, Enchantress of Books are celebrating Audio Book Month (June)  by hosting a month long series called Audio Book Lovin’!! I thought it be fun to see if I could find some items around that theme! I did!! I found some awesome and cute items for this week’s “Gift Idea For The Book Lover”!  






Cupcake Headphones — Made to Order
$50.00 (plus S&H)
 
NEW COLORS ARE AVAILABLE: Frosting: Almond (light tan color), Accents: Purple!
 
Super cute headphones with carefully piped whipped cream and sparkly cabochons throughout. CUTE!! They come packaged in an extremely cute cake box! These extremely popular headphones are made by Sony and have adjustable bands and ear caps. They also all come with a lace liner (though some photos don’t show it, I always add a lace cupcake liner!)
 
Color refers to the frosting color, ie, Vanilla, Chocolate, etc. Style refers to the color of the little trinkets that are on the cupcake frosting. If you don’t see the color combo you want, please select “OTHER” and message me with your choice. If you order with the OTHER option and don’t message me with your color choice within 3 days, I will choose a color combo at random.
 
*****
Headphone Stand / Display with High Quality Pattern Faux Leather. Some styles came with decorative metal studs.
$19.99 (Plus S&H)
* 2 Shinny Metal Knobs on the back to wind the cable.
* 9″Height, 5″ Base Width, 2.5″ Thick
* Fits All Sizes of headphones
The Apropos Faux Leather Headphone stand is a one of the kind ultimate headphone stand that provides you with a prominent place to keep your headphones in their best condition and in the most fashionable style. A solid and wide foot gives great stability for your headphones.The foot is furthermore fitted with a non-woven mat to provide better grip, as well as stopping any furniture or surfaces from potential scratches. The metal knobs are a functional element to allow you to wind the cable as tight or loose as you please. This headphone stand is not just a great resting piece for your favorite headphones but also is a great decoration piece on your desk.
*****
Guitar iPhone / Cellphone Dust Plug- Universal Anti-Dust Plug For Headphone Jack- Cellphone/ iPhone Accessories
$4.50 (Plus S&H)

Great gift for Father’s Day! A super cool steampunk guitar Cell Phone/iPhone Headphone anti-Dust Plug! Universal headphone jack plug which fits all standard headphone jack ports including cellphones and handheld gaming systems such as Nintendo 3DS and PS Vita! Other available guitar jewelry and accessories shown in last photo.

A fun way to add a little style to your phone or game and protect your headphone jack from dust. A unique and inexpensive gift!
Descriptions:
(1) Sterling Silver Ox finish Guitar Dust Plug
-GUITAR- brass stamping plated in a thick sterling silver finish with anti-tarnish; measures approximately 1 1/8″ long x 1/2″ wide (27mm x 12mm)
*****
Baby Crochet DJ Headphones Music Beanie Hat
$34.00 (Plus S&H)

 

This hat was handmade with soft heather gray yarn with cute 3D black headphones on the sides and a headphone strap across the top. Your little one will love having a cozy, cute hat to keep them in style and showing off their musical side.
A unique hat for photo shoots, baby shower gifts, and for your own little one!!!
*Also shown is Aruba Sea with Plum Headphones*
Choose Any color hat and sizes:
Newborn
0 to 3 months – up to 14″ head circumference
3 to 6 months – 14-16″ head circumference
Just let me know size and colors at checkout and feel free to contact me with any questions.

 

*****
The HEADPHONES Mean I don’t Want to Talk – button, magnet, or bottle opener 3 sizes to choose from
By PortlandButtonWorks
$1.25+ (Plus S&H)
At the coffee shop or on a bus or train to write or read or just get to work without having to talk to anyone? Do you ALWAYS end up having someone interrupt your social cues (laptop, headphones, book) and talk to you anyway? How about adding another one?
This design is available in multiple sizes (1″, 1.25″, 2.25″) and multiple items (pinback buttons, magnets, and bottle openers) please see photos and choose accordingly from the options.
All artwork is laser printed on 100% post consumer recycled paper. Each item is affixed to a card, wrapped in recycled tissue paper, and tucked into a small paper bag for extra padding before bring placed in an envelope for shipping.
I also make custom 1″, 1.25″, & 2.25″ buttons if you would like buttons of your own images, please see my listings in the section for Custom buttons for pricing.
*****
Headphones Urban DJ Skinny Tie- Lime Green
$28.00 (Plus S&H)

 

Get your hip-hop on with this stand out tie. This original design was drawn with an ultra fine point Sharpie marker before being translated to print. Every tie is hand screen-printed with love using reclaim ink in our low-impact print shop.
Tie measures 2″ wide & made from 100% polyester.
1% of sales from this, and every item in our shop, benefit Evergreen Design Co; a 501c3 nonprofit organization that educates on, promotes & provides means to a sustainable lifestyle through a focus on design.

If items are no longer available, please contact the seller to request further information. 

 




Click here to see more gift ideas!!
Visit us every Wednesdays for more awesome gift/present ideas for you or the 
Book Lover in your life!!! 
 


Book Blitz: Katee Robert’s The Marriage Contract

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The Marriage Contract

The O’Malleys: Book 1

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June 2, 2015

Amazon | B&N | iBook | GooglePlay | Kobo | BAM

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katee Robert begins a smoking hot new series about the O’Malley family-wealthy, powerful, dangerous and seething with scandal.
Teague O’Malley hates pretty much everything associated with his family’s name. And when his father orders him to marry Callista Sheridan to create a “business” alliance, Teague’s ready to tell his dad exactly where he can stuff his millions. But then Teague actually meets his new fiancée, sees the bruises on her neck and the fight still left in her big blue eyes, and vows he will do everything in his power to protect her.

Everyone knows the O’Malleys have a dangerous reputation. But Callie wasn’t aware just what that meant until she saw Teague, the embodiment of lethal grace and coiled power. His slightest touch sizzles through her. But the closer they get, the more trouble they’re in. Because Callie’s keeping a dark secret-and what Teague doesn’t know could get him killed.

 

An Excerpt:

She was so wrapped up in her misery, she didn’t realize she was no longer alone until a rough male voice cut through her spiraling thoughts. “Want a smoke?”

Callie opened her eyes to a man offering her an opened pack of cigarettes. He was attractive in a brutish sort of way, his jaw square, cheekbones to kill for, and shoulders filling out his expensive suit in a way that didn’t look the least bit comfortable.

“I don’t smoke.”

“Now’s as good a time to start as any.” He shook one out and handed it to her, and then lit the one dangling between his lips. “I hear we’re going to be married.”

This was Teague O’Malley? She tensed, but he seemed content to stand in this dark alley with her and share his cigarettes. Now that she knew what to look for, she recognized the same coloring that his father and older brother had—sun-darkened skin and near-black hair. His dark eyes weren’t as cold as Seamus’s, but that didn’t comfort her in the least. All it meant was that he was a better liar than his father was. “What do you think about that?”

He shrugged. “It doesn’t really matter what either of us thinks, does it?”

“No, I suppose it doesn’t.”

She wanted to know why he’d followed her out here—if there was something he’d wanted to say that couldn’t be said in front of both their combined families—but he seemed content to enjoy his cigarette in silence. Maybe he’d needed the respite as much as she had?

All too soon, it’d be time to step back into the chaos and let the events neither of them could stop begin, but right now they were just two strangers, sharing a moment of silence.

Can we really be strangers if we’re already engaged?

She pushed the thought away, determined to enjoy this stolen moment in time before reality set back in. By the time she finished her cigarette, her hands had almost stopped shaking. She crushed the remaining bit under the toe of her sky-high heels and turned for the door.

Only to find her way blocked by Teague.

He was taller up close, well over six feet, and broader as well. The man looked like a bruiser, which was fitting because it was exactly what he was. He stared down at her with beautiful dark eyes, and her demand that he get out of her way died in her throat. While she was debating her options, he reached up, quick as a snake, and snagged the silk scarf around her neck. She made a grab at it, but it was too late.

Teague took a step closer, and then another, backing her against the wall, his eyes narrowing at her neck. “Show me.”

“Leave me alone.” Was that her voice, weak and wavering? She took a shuddering breath, all her hard won calm disappearing. “Get out of my way.”

He kept going as if he hadn’t heard her, stopping less than an arm’s reach away. God, he seemed big this close up—bigger than Brendan, bigger than her brother had been. He cupped her chin, his grip painless but completely unmovable, and tilted her head back to bare her neck. “Who hurt you?” There was a promise of violence in every line of his body.

“No one.”

“Now, I may not be the smartest man in the world, Callista, but I know what the imprint of a man’s hands on a woman’s neck looks like.” His thumb moved, tracing the line of Brendan’s fingers that she could still feel digging into her skin. Teague’s touch didn’t hurt, though. It felt…almost good.

She swallowed, the move pressing her throat more firmly against his thumb. “It won’t happen again.”

“You’re right. Because I’m going to kill the bastard.” He kept stroking her skin, his touch doing strange things to parts of her body that weren’t anywhere near her neck. “Tell me his name.”

She wouldn’t, even if the man who’d hurt her wasn’t already dead. Even in their messed-up world, murder was a last resort—something to be avoided at all costs—not something you did for a woman you barely knew. “No.”

“Your father hasn’t been keeping what’s his safe.” Another stroke, this one closer to her jawline. “That’s his mistake—one I won’t be making as well. His name, Callista.”

She’d never considered herself one to crack under pressure, but this man put his hands on her and spoke in that quiet, confident way that promised violence to anyone who touched her, and she was dangerously close to losing control. Which kind of control was up for grabs, so she went with the least likely to reveal her secret.

She kissed him, her heels giving her enough height that she barely had to go up on her toes. Her lips brushed his and for one interminable second she was sure neither of them took a breath.

That was all it took.

He let go of her throat to cup the back of her head, and then she was in the middle of the single most devastating kiss of her life. His tongue stroked hers, claiming her mouth—her body—as his own. His hands stayed in place even as he continued the assault on her mouth, his touch headier than the nicotine. She arched against him, tilting her head to allow him better access, and he growled in approval.

Whatever she’d expected from this kiss, it certainly hadn’t been desire. Though desire was too tame a word. She’d felt desire before, and this wasn’t it. This was…need. All-consuming need that devoured everything in its path, leaving only destruction in its wake.

 

Katee RobertAbout the author:

Katee Robert learned to tell stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her favorites then were the rather epic adventures of The Three Bears, but at age twelve she discovered romance novels and never looked back. Though she dabbled in writing, life got in the way-as it often does-and she spent a few years traveling, living in both Philadelphia and Germany. In between traveling and raising her two wee ones, she had the crazy idea that she’d like to write a book and try to get published. Her first novel was an epic fantasy that, God willing, will never see the light of day. From there, she dabbled in YA and horror, before finally finding romance. Because, really, who wouldn’t want to write entire books about the smoking-hot relationships between two people? She now spends her time-when not lost in Far Reach worlds-playing imaginary games with her wee ones, writing, ogling men, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

Social Media Links:

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