Release Day Blitz: Smoldering Hunger by Donna Grant

Smoldering Hunger

(Dark Kings Series, #8)

His kisses were soul stirring, leaving her gasping and hungry for more. They pulled her from the wasteland of her life viciously and ruthlessly. With just one kiss she was clinging to him, silently begging him to show her all that one brush of his lips had promised.
TEMPTING FATE
Darius is back. Edinburgh thought it had seen the last of this seductive Dragon King, but that was before Darius found something worthwhile. He just can’t stay away from the impossibly beautiful Dr. Sophie Martin—even though he knows that a passion this strong could prove detrimental…for them both.
CRAVING DESIRE
Sophie tried to forget her encounter with smoking-hot Darius to no avail. He’s in her dreams, tempting her. But her association with Darius catches the attention of another, putting her in mortal danger. . .and Darius, who has vowed to protect her, is her only hope. But can she trust the notorious dragon shapeshifter? The only thing she knows for sure is that she cannot resist him…
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Excerpts

 

 SMOLDERING HUNGER Excerpt 2“Sophie?”

She blinked and looked down to find Claire watching her with a worried look in her brown eyes. Sophie shot her a smile, but Claire cocked her blonde head to the side and put a hand on her hip, telling Sophie she wasn’t buying the act for a second.

“Just lost in thought,” Sophie said with a shrug.

Claire raised her brows as she regarded Sophie. “By that look, I’d say it was a man.”

A man? Darius was so much more. His presence seemed to make the earth still, waiting for his order. He commanded without a word, dominated with a look from his dark brown gaze.

Man? No man she’d ever met could be so strong and imposing.

And sexy.

Her mouth went dry thinking of the hard line of his jaw and his lips that were soft and insistent. His eyes could cut coldly, but they could also blaze with a fire so hot that it could melt the sun.

She knew what desire looked like reflected in his chocolate-colored depths. His eyes softened, turned downright sensual as he held her gaze, challenging her to try and look away.

All the while his gorgeous body with rippling muscles brought her higher and higher, giving her ecstasy the likes she’d never known.

And never known she could have.

If she hadn’t been sore the next morning when she woke, she might have thought it all a dream.

“I don’t know who he is, but you need to see him again,” Claire said, breaking into Sophie’s thoughts again. Her smile was wide, a knowing look in her eyes.

Sophie swallowed and smoothed a hand over her hair to make sure the thick length was still in place. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Uh, huh,” Claire said with a wink. “Two weeks ago you walked in here with a flush to your skin and a smile on your lips. You wore the look of a woman who had been rode well. Ever since, you occasionally get that look in your eyes. I’m telling you as your friend, Soph, go see him again. Because if I could find a man who could make me look like that after sex, I’d chain him to my bed.”

This time Sophie’s laugh wasn’t forced. She knew all too well Claire’s issues with men. She was a petite, pretty woman who had a bright smile and infectious laugh, and yet every guy she was interested in preferred someone else. Worse, it was all the wrong sorts of men who were attracted to Claire.

If Sophie thought her years without a date was a long time, Claire wasn’t behind her by far. It was why the two of them had become such good friends.

Sophie leaned down and whispered in Claire’s ear, “The sex was out of this world, but he’s also out of the picture.”

She walked away, leaving Claire with her mouth gaping and questions in her eyes. Sophie inwardly laughed, because it was a rare thing when she got to shock Claire. Normally, it was Claire who astonished her on a daily basis.

Sophie turned the corner and found a man leaning against the wall staring at her. He was drop dead gorgeous in his dark red sweater and jeans.

He wore a small smile about his wide lips as his golden eyes stared at her. His long black hair was pulled back showing off the hard planes of his face.

It unnerved her how he watched her, as if she were something to be studied under a microscope. Sophie pulled her gaze away from him, and stopped dead in her tracks when spotted Darius.

Her heart thumped in her chest and her stomach fell to her feet. She couldn’t decide if she was excited to see him or surprised. Especially after just thinking of him.

The strands of his long, dark blond hair was windblown. Just disheveled enough to make him even sexier. His hair, in addition to the five o’clock shadow of a beard, made her blood race and her hands itch to touch him, to run her hands up his chest and over his thick shoulders once more.

He watched her with his deep brown eyes without a hint of any emotion. While she was reeling from seeing him after so long and her body instantly beginning to throb with need, he felt…nothing.

Sophie knew what kind of disaster lay with Darius. She swore to never go down that path again. As tempting as he was – and good Lord was he tempting – she fortified the walls around her heart.

She walked into her patient’s room without a backward look to Darius. If only it was as easy to erase him from her thoughts as it was to look away.

 

 

 
The Dark Kings Series
 

 

 

 
 
About the Author

Donna Grant is the New York Timesand USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

You can find Donna at
               
   

 

 

Presented By

 

Spotlight Feature: Maya Banks’ Mastered

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Surrender Trilogy and the Breathless Trilogy knows what makes readers hot. Now she turns it up in Mastered, the explosive first book in a new series of a desire too dangerous to resist.
 
What he wants, he takes with no remorse or guilt.
 
She stood out in his club like a gem, unspoiled and untouched. A lamb among wolves, she clearly didn’t belong. Drawn to her innocence he watched as she was surrounded by men who saw what he did—but no one but him could touch her. He summoned her to his private quarters. He sensed her fear. He also recognized the desire in her eyes. And he knew she wouldn’t leave before he possessed her. She had no need to know his secrets. Not until he had her under his complete and utter control.
 
What he wants, she isn’t sure she can give him.
 
The moment he told her want he wanted, she couldn’t resist. Instinct told her to run, but her heart said stay and walk the fine line between pleasure and pain. Though she wasn’t sure she could ever completely surrender, the primal part of her wanted to try, even knowing this man could break her in ways she never imagined. Because once he possessed her, he owned her and it would be too late to turn back. She can only pray that he doesn’t destroy her in the end.
 *****
MayaBanks02_bioAuthor Bio: Maya Banks is the #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over 50 novels. A wife and mother of three, she lives in Texas. Visit her website at www.mayabanks.com.

 

Spotlight Feature: Linda Broday’s Forever His Texas Bride + a giveaway

Forever-His-Texas-Bride---Release-Graphic

Books-n-Kisses is please to welcome Linda Broday to the blog for the first time.  

We are also helping her celebrate her newest release FOREVER HIS TEXAS BRIDE.  

Let’s get to know Linda a little better:

Linda-pubpixThough I now reside in the Texas Panhandle, I grew up in a small town in New Mexico. From an early age, I was lucky enough to discover wealth didn’t exactly pertain to money. Though my parents could barely afford the necessities, they managed to instill deep rooted values and a thirst for books. My favorite memories are the yearly road trips we made to California on Route 66 to visit grandparents. We’d stop at museums, trading posts, ghost towns and anything else that held our interest. I’m sure that’s where my love of history and the Old West was born.

I’ve been a “writer in training” my whole life. As young girls, my sister and I became obsessed with books. Many nights long after the house grew dark and everyone else was asleep, we’d lie beneath our covers and read by flashlight until we either reached the end of the book or our eyes got too heavy to see the words. Books opened up entirely new, exciting worlds that seemed limited only by our imaginations. I never imagined in a hundred years that I could create my own worlds. That undertaking seemed as far-fetched as scaling Mt. Everest. But write I did. It took me five years to finish that first novel and it will never be anything more than fire-starter material. With a small measure of confidence though, I wrote others that found their way onto an editor’s desk and then into bookstores.

Cowboys have always fascinated me so it’s no wonder that I love to write about them and their ladies and the struggles they endure in trying to carve out a small place to call home. It took some awfully tough men and women to settle this great country of ours.

I grew up watching TV westerns and hated that the cowboy always rode into the sunset all by his lonesome. I vowed to write stories that gave the cowboy someone to share his life with besides his trusty horse. I wanted him to marry that pretty woman he fell in love with, not leave her behind. That’s what I’ve endeavored to do and I think in that aspect I’ve succeeded. If I can capture one small portion of his grit and determination, that’s an added bonus. I want to show in my stories people who might’ve lived at one time. They’re ordinary, but they have more guts and more backbone than anyone.

Western romance is my passion. I feel truly blessed. Humble roots and the love of family have become focal points in my stories. I sincerely hope readers enjoy the characters and tales I strive to bring to life on the printed page.

You can learn more about Linda and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Linda Broday’s latest released on December 1st! The final title in the Bachelor of Battle Creek trilogy, Forever His Texas Bride is sure to sweep readers off of their feet. To celebrate her new release, we’ve asked Linda to answer a “Quick Draw” either/or question and to share an excerpt with us!

Wine or beer? A good wine would be my drink of choice, although I rarely imbibe. I prefer a glass of white—something light and a little sweet. And if it’s moscato, better leave the bottle.

*****

Forever His Texas Bride

Bachelors of Battle Creek, #3

9781492602873

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“There’s this thing between us that refuses to die. I’d like nothing better than to be able to…” His words faded. He’d give anything to change people’s views about his race…to be able to make her his wife.

But the world wasn’t that simple. Not for people like them.

All his life, Brett Liberty has straddled two worlds: white and Iroquois. The only place he’s truly at peace is with his wild mustangs. But after he’s arrested for the color of his skin, he discovers Rayna Harper in the cell next to him. Rough and tumble Rayna has known little kindness, but Brett sees the depth of her heart hidden beneath layers of hurt and fear, and he refuses to leave without her.

Fierce and loyal, kind and strong, Rayna is everything Brett has ever wanted. But the world doesn’t look kindly on a love like theirs, and he would rather let her go than bring her pain. Yet when the demons of his past threaten her future, Brett realizes he will do anything to keep Rayna safe…and make her his.

 

An Excerpt:

Rayna sat up, pushed back her cloud of russet hair, and got up from the bunk in Brett’s jail cell. It was then he saw that she wore a heavy pair of men’s brogans. What on earth! The shoes looked as though they might’ve come off a very poor dead man.

Her dirty dress had been mended so many times it looked like a patchwork quilt with none of the squares matching. But she seemed so spirited, so brave.

If society had ever allowed him to take a wife, he’d want someone like her. He hated to think he’d have spent all his life never knowing what it could be like to be happy like his brothers now were. While he waited to die, maybe they could pretend.

Maybe he could know what it was like to be loved.

Until they led him through those doors to a hangman, maybe he could have the bride prejudice had denied him. The bold notion made ripples dance under his skin.

Brett raised to a sitting position, ignoring the pain shooting through his back. “This may sound crazy, but I’m going to ask anyway. Rayna, do you think you could pretend to be my wife? Just until they take me away? No one will ever know but us, so they can’t hurt you.”

Turning, she dropped down beside him. Surprised tears bubbled in her eyes. “No one ever asked me to marry them before.”

“Is that a no?”

“I’d be honored to be your pretend wife,” she whispered, brushing his face with her fingers. “What do we do now?”

“Do you mind if I kiss you?”

“I’d like that…husband.”

Under her bright gaze, he lowered his head. But before their lips touched, the sound of a key grating in the lock made him jerk back. “Quick, go to your cell before they catch you with me.”

Rayna scurried into hers and quietly eased the door shut.

Just then a deputy sauntered in, taking care to keep his distance from Brett’s cell. “You alive, breed?”

Brett glared. “Disappointed?”

The deputy—a squat man who reminded Brett of a possum with little weasel eyes, grunted, shifting his gaze to Rayna. “Give any thought to my offer, woman?”

No one had to spell out what the deputy meant. Brett sought to tamp down his rising anger. He watched Rayna tilt her head at a defiant angle.

“The answer is the same as all the other times.”

The weasel shrugged and went back out. The minute the door locked shut, Rayna slowly walked into Brett’s cell and sat down beside him again. “I wish I could see the sky and smell the fresh air.”

“How long have you been in here?”

“Over a month, I think. With each sunrise I’ve been making a mark on the wall. The one today makes thirty-one. But no matter how much I want out, I’m not doing what that deputy wants,” she whispered. “I’ll never be a fine lady, but even I have my dignity. No one will ever take that.”

Though still hesitant, Brett took her small, dainty hand. Her skin shone white against his. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d touched someone who wasn’t family, but his pretend wife was different somehow. “Always stand on your principles. In the end, we still have to live with ourselves, look at our face in the mirror.”

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Spotlight & Review of Kate Douglas’ Intimate

We are super excited to host Kate Douglas today and help her continue her celebration on her newest release.

intimateblogtour (2)

KateA little about Kate:

Kate Douglas was first published in contemporary romance and then successfully moved to erotic paranormal romance with her long-running Wolf Tales series at Kensington Publishing. In 2010 she was awarded RT Magazine’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her outstanding body of work in erotic romance. Kate continues to write within the world of her sexy shapeshifters with her new Spirit Wild series which follows the second generation of Chanku shapeshifters from Wolf Tales, now published independently. She has her first romantic suspense novella with St. Martin’s Press coming out in May 2015 in the Hot Alphas anthology with Lora Leigh. Kate’s first novel in the series–Intimate–which is set in California’s wine country, is due to release in November 2015.

Learn more about Kate and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter @wolftales | Goodreads | Email  kate@katedouglas.com

*****

intimateTITLE: Intimate
CHARACTERS: Jake & Kaz
AUTHOR: Kate Douglas
PUBLICATION DATE: December 1, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
From bestselling author Kate Douglas comes the first book in a sensational new series set in California wine country—a place where love is always intoxicating…

HER BEAUTY IS POWERFUL.

They call her Kaz. She’s a gorgeous model with a good head for business—until now, at least. Kaz has just been fired from her latest photo shoot for having the wrong tattoo in the wrong place at the wrong time. But a chance encounter with photographer Jake Lowell could make everything right again . . . if Kaz is willing to accept his proposition. What does she have to lose?

HIS DESIRE IS DANGEROUS.

Jake has been searching for the perfect model to pose for a body-jewelry shoot—one that will leave no room for modesty. Is Kaz, who is nothing if not professional, ready to bare it all for a man she is not sure she can trust? It’s an offer that’s too good to refuse . . . and as Kaz finds herself growing more comfortable with Jake, the attraction between them reaches arousing new heights. But while the artist and his subject learn more about each other in the intimacy of wine country, evil lurks in the shadows—and soon it becomes clear that someone else has designs on them.

REVIEW:
This was a great story!!! Ms. Douglas has done an amazing job with this story. I really joyed Jake & Kaz’s story. Both have had some terrible events happen in their past. But those things made them the people they are today.
I will tell you that the story line moves really, really fast in this story. But it was not a forced fast. It felt very natural. Jake and Kaz are just too good together to think otherwise.
I really enjoyed the suspense part of the story too. I might have been a little slow on figuring out who was doing what. But it was a really good right. I am already looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & St. Martin’s Press in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
4 Hearts

Guest Blogger: Samantha Chase talks about her newest release I’ll Be There + a giveaway

Hey, everyone!  It’s Samantha Chase and I am psyched to be here with you today.  This month I am totally celebrating the release of “I’ll Be There” – book six in the Montgomery Brothers series.   I fell in love with this family from the very beginning – and I think some of you have too!  But there has been something special about Zach and Gabriella’s story that is different than any of our other Montgomerys.

From the time “Meant for You” came out (book five), readers instantly began asking about Zach and Gabriella.  We were introduced to them in that book and you really got a sense that there was a story brewing there.  They were snarky and argumentative with one another in a way that you just knew was masking some deep feelings.  And by the end of the book we had the makings of a wounded hero and an under-appreciated heroine.  The best part is that no matter how angry Zach made us, we still believe there’s room for redemption.

And as for Gabriella, I think readers are waiting for her to put her boss in his place!  We want her to stand up for herself and maybe make Zach suffer a little in the process.  Who doesn’t love a heroine who finally realizes her self-worth and makes the hero come begging?  I know I love that!

I think this story – more than any other I’ve written – deals with the complexity of a relationship between two broken people.  It’s more than a personality clash and both Zach and Gabriella have healing to do – both together and apart.

 

I’ll Be There

The Montgomery Brothers #6

9781492615835-300

This Montgomery Has a Head for Business

Working for Zach Montgomery is challenging on many levels-coming from a wealthy and powerful family, he lives by his own rules and doesn’t answer to anyone. But Gabriella Martine has no intention of backing down. She’s used to handling stubborn men, and it doesn’t hurt that Zach is smart, charismatic… and gorgeous.

And a Heart for Adventure

Zach’s perfect world is turned upside down when a climbing accident leaves him broken, angry, and maddeningly dependent. In his slow quest for recovery, Gabriella is always there to help… but as Zach comes to see his beautiful assistant in a new light, he is forced to re-evaluate what it really means to be aman worthy of Gabriella’s love.

Excerpt:

It was now or never.

Shifting again so he had his arms resting on the table, he looked at Gabriella and studied her face. “The truth?” he asked and waited until she nodded. “Okay, Gabs. But remember, you asked. I invited you here tonight because I needed you to realize how sorry I was for the way I’ve treated you. I’ve done some serious soul searching these last few days and I don’t like the man I’ve become. I’m committed to my therapy with Alex and I’m committed to getting back to being the head of Montgomerys. I didn’t want you to come in here on the defensive. I wanted us to just have some time to talk and…get to know each other again.”

She leaned back in her chair and let out a shaky breath. “Wow. Okay.”

That was it? That was all she had to say? “But more than that, Gabriella, I don’t want to do any of it without you. I need you. You are the reason I’ve been able to accomplish all I have with the company. You’re the reason I’ve been successful in just about every aspect of my life for the last five years.” Reaching across the table, Zach took one of Gabriella’s hands in his and just marveled at how soft it was. He always wondered what her skin felt like and now that he knew, he wanted to feel more. “Don’t leave me. Please.”

Her blue eyes filled with tears and she used her free hand to quickly wipe them away before they fell and then studied their hands on the table. “Zach,” she said softly, “we’ve been over this.”

“I know, I know,” he replied just as softly. “I need another chance, Gabriella. I need a chance to make things right.” He looked up, his gaze meeting hers. “I need you.”

Deciding to be bold, he turned her hand over and twined their fingers together and gently squeezed. He was surprised she didn’t pull away and thought maybe—just maybe—they were making progress. “I know I can’t erase the things I’ve said and done, but if you’ll give me one more chance, Gabs, I promise not to screw up. If I do anything to upset you, you can walk away. Hell, you can slap me in the face, kick me in the shin or throw something heavy at me and I’ll take it. I just…I can’t do this without you.”

Her eyes never left their joined hands.

“I don’t want to do this without you,” he said quietly.

“I’m afraid to…believe you.” He barely heard her words, they were uttered so softly.

Everything inside of him clenched with pain. His always confident, ever-efficient assistant was now distrusting and uncertain—because of him. “I don’t know what to say to make you believe me. Tell me. Tell me what I need to do. Anything. Anything you need from me to gain your confidence, and I’ll do it.”

She looked up at him. “It’s not that easy. Every day I walked into the office, I gave you another chance. Every time you berated me or made me feel like I screwed up and I came back, I gave you another chance. From my standpoint, you’ve had two years’ worth of second chances. I think I’ve been more than generous.”

His other hand reached out to cup her hand in both of his. “I know you have and you have no idea how much I appreciated it.” She looked at him with disbelief. “It’s true! I know I never said it but every morning you were there, I was thankful. Every time you walked into my office, I was thankful. Please. I’m begging here, Gabs.”

 

*****

Samantha ChaseAbout Samantha: 

New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well. 

With twenty-three titles currently to her name, she has no plans to slow down.  The success of the Montgomery Brothers series has her working on six new titles in that collection as well as two new exciting series set to start popping up on bookshelves in 2015.  You won’t find her books with the erotica or paranormal titles, all of her works are pure contemporary romances.

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, blogging, playing way too many games of Scrabble on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.

Learn more about Samantha and her books here: Website| Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

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Spotlight feature of Jade Lee’s One Rogue at a Time + a giveaway

One-Rogue-At-A-Time---Release-Graphic

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Jade Lee to the blog today to help her celebrate here newest release  ONE ROGUE AT A TIME.

 

jadesittingUSA Today bestselling author Jade Lee has been crafting love stories since she first picked up a set of paper dolls. Ballgowns and rakish lords caught her attention early (thank you Georgette Heyer), and her fascination with the Regency began. An author of more than 40 romance novels and winner of dozens of reader awards, she brings laughter into the sexy nights of England’s elite. Quirky characters and sexy banter are her hallmarks. Find out more at her website www.JadeLeeAuthor.com, or check out her wild contemporary half at www.KathyLyons.com.

A Word From Jade Lee: Our heroine Bluebell (nickname) wants to go to London to meet her father for the first time. Bram Hallowsby needs a horse so he can escape this blasted northern province. And now the bartering begins…

Learn more about Jade and her books here:  Website| Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

*****

Now let us take a look at ONE ROGUE AT A TIME ( Rakes and Rogues, #2)

9781492605027

 

Pubdate: December 1st, 2015

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USA Today bestselling author Jade Lee continues her saucy, vibrant Rakes and Rogues Regency romance series with a high-society outsider who may have met his match…

A brown-eyed bastard with nothing to lose

As the illegitimate son of a duke, Bramwell Wesley Hallowsby grew up tough, on the fringes of society, learning to hide his hurt and cynicism with charm and Town polish. He’s carved out a place for himself as a mercenary, serving as bodyguard and general strong arm for the peerage. Bram has nothing to lose… and he’s exactly what Maybelle “Bluebell” Ballenger needs.

Meets his match in a blue-eyed beauty with everything to hide

Maybelle needs a mentor to teach her to speak and act like a lady, so she can claim the place in society she was denied. As they team up to take on the ton, Bram knows she’s hiding something even from him. Despite the deception he sees behind those sparkling blue eyes, Bram wants to believe that Maybelle’s love is no lie. But it seems fate has served him up his just desserts in the likes of this determined damsel.

 

Excerpt: 

“That’s a sorry looking nag.”

She knew he was baiting her. Knew that her own estimation put Mina in such a sad category as well. But she felt the wound nonetheless.

“She’s a truer horse than you’ll ever know. Mina and I’ve been friends since she was a foal. She may not look so fine as your London-bred prancers, but she’ll get you where you need to go, be satisfied with the grasses at her feet, and be ready to move in the morning.”

“Nursed by your very own hand…” he said, his eyebrows raised as he called her bluff.

“Not nursed. She came to us much older, though I played with her as a child.”

“Of course you did—”

“And I feed her my right fine carrots. By hand.” Then just to prove the point, she clucked her tongue, and Mina trotted over, mouth eager for the carrot she pulled out of her pocket.

“The carriage needs two horses—”

“You can switch the hitch for one.”

He grimaced, and she knew she had him. He was thinking of the expense and the bother. But if he’d a mind to leave the carriage behind, he’d have given up by now. Which meant he was here for at least a few days while the thing got repaired.

“You should add a coat of paint, you know,” she said as if she’d just thought of it. “It will sell better that way.”

“And what would you know about selling carriages?” he grumbled.

“Not a thing,” she lied. After all, selling was selling. It was all about finding out what people really wanted and giving it to them, even if it was simple compliments and attention.

Which brought her thoughts to him. What exactly did he want? Coin, obviously, but that was the only thing. With his looks, he wasn’t in need of attention. So what did he want that she could sell him? Did he want to feel important?

She turned so that she looked more fully at him, but her profile was still in his view. Her mother said her figure was her best asset, along with her smile. And so she left it on display as spoke.

“May I ask your advice, sir?”

His brows went up in surprise and wariness entered his body. “Of course.”

She flashed her dimple, but kept her expression anxious. It wasn’t hard to do. She was worried. “Lady Linsel said she couldn’t understand me. That I speak—”

“Clarissa makes sure to insult the prettiest woman in the room.”

“Oh sir! Surely she couldn’t mean—”

“I’ll think about the horse, Miss Bluebell,” he interrupted as he took a step back. Clearly, he did not appreciate false modesty. “Good day.” He gave her a shallow bow.

No! She couldn’t lose him now. They hadn’t reached a bargain yet. “But sir, please tell me! Please…” She swallowed. He’d put on his hat. “Teach me.”

He frowned at her. “What?”

“I want t’ speak like a proper lady.”

His head tilted as he studied her. “It’s not how you speak, it’s what you say.”

“No, sir, that’s not true,” she shot back. “I am always respectful, always sweet.”

“All the best courtesans are.”

She blinked, shocked to her core. Had he just called her a whore? An expensive one, but still a woman who spread her legs for money. And said in such a matter-of-fact way that she was shocked. As if it were a foregone conclusion of little import. It was that last that truly bothered her. Most men who insulted her looked for a reaction. He had said it as calmly as if he named a carrot or a tree. And in that moment of frozen surprise, she lost the upper hand.

“You know,” he said as he touched her chin, slowly closing her mouth, “there was a time I would have been completely fooled by you, taken in like all the other peasants in your life. But I am not, Miss Bluebell.” He stepped closer to her, letting his height dwarf her into insignificance. “You are a woman who gets everything she wants. A grasping tart in the most beautiful package I have ever seen.”

Never had anyone complimented and insulted her in the same sentence. And so she reacted purely from the place of a wounded animal.

She punched him square in the jaw, following with another to his gut.

 

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Cyber Monday Extravaganza Event

Welcome to the first annual Cyber Monday Extravaganza!
Are you all ready to One-Click these? To grab those books you’ve been waiting for? Today is the day to do it! As we have some awesome deals to share with you all today!!!
Available for FREE!!!!!
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Bluestone Homecoming 
(Welcome to Bluestone Series, #1)
by M.J. Fredrick

Blurb:

War correspondent Leo Ericson returns to his hometown of Bluestone Lake, Minnesota, when his parents notify him his young son is having trouble fitting in at school. Leo doesn’t know how to be a single parent since the death of his wife, and he certainly has no desire to return to Bluestone. But he needs a place for his son, a place where he’ll be with family, while Leo does his job. He’ll stay long enough to get Max settled, then go back to work.

School counselor Trinity Madison watches Leo struggle with his son, trying to overcome the mental barricade she’s erected against the man who sent his son away when he’s perfectly capable of caring for the child. The situation brings about her own unsettled feelings about giving her child up for adoption when she was young. But as she observes Leo’s difficulties, his sacrifices, she softens toward the man.

While he’s in town, he ends up working with some old friends and Trinity on a committee to revitalize Bluestone. The former resort town is struggling and looking for ways to bring tourists back. Leo finds himself charmed, then smitten with the feisty counselor, but will he still love her when he learns her secret?

Available for purchase at
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An Inner Fire 
(Grayce Walters Series, #1)
by Jacki Delecki

Blurb:

Grayce Walters, animal acupuncturist, harbors a secret. She hides her intuitive gifts from the world until she becomes embroiled in arson on Seattle’s waterfront.

As a key crime witness, Grayce must convince the attractive, logical, by-the-numbers fire investigator, Ewan Davis,that the fire she witnessed is part of a larger criminal conspiracy. Grayce embarks upon a mission to gather proof of the dangerous threat. She enlists the help of her cross-dressing best friend, her street-wise assistant, and Davis’ poodle, to conduct her own investigation.

As her feelings for Davis shift between white hot passion and cold fear, Grayce must risk exposing her secrets to save Davis’ life. Davis must accept things, he can neither see, nor understand to solve the mystery and finally find the love he has stopped believing in.

With nudges from the protective poodle, Grayce and Davis confront shocking betrayal and international crime on the rain soaked streets of Seattle.

Available for purchase at
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Finding Allie 
(Breaking Away Series, #1)
by Meli Raine
 
Blurb: 

** 202 page full-length novel**

Chase Halloway’s father is the president of Atlas, the drug dealing motorcycle gang that terrorizes most of our desert town.
My stepfather turns out to be a rival drug dealer, and I’m pretty sure he killed my mom two years ago.
I’m not supposed to fall in love with Chase. He’s not supposed to know I even exist.
But when he finds me, he can’t let go.
And when I find myself in his arms?
I hold tight. I have to.
Because if I don’t, I might just die.
With or without him.
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Read all three books in the Breaking Away series:
Finding Allie: FREE
Chasing Allie
Keeping Allie
Rescuing the Reluctant Groom (Windy City Romance, # 5)

 

Available for purchase at
 
 
*****
On Sale for 99 Cents
Rescuing the Reluctant Groom
(Windy City Romance Series, # 5)

by Barbara LohrBlurb:

Selena Ruiz wants more than romance. The Chicago midwife demands Seth Kirkpatrick’s commitment and a ring. But after two years? Nada. Is the hot Chicago EMT marriage shy or tongue tied? She’s never been a quitter. No room for that in a migrant worker’s childhood. In this heartwarming multi-cultural love story, Selena fights for the man she loves with every trick in her toolbox, including a trip to Savannah to visit his sister. But it takes an abandoned kitten to loosen Seth’s tongue and open his heart. Secrets abound in this wedding standoff, with everything at stake. Can they heal each other’s past to find their future?

Available for purchase at
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Save The Best For Last
by Bettye Griffin 
 
Blurb: 

The author of the romance classic A LOVE OF HER OWN brings you a new, unforgettable love story, the first in a three-book connected storyline that includes Something Real and concludes with Man of Her Heart.
THE LAW AND THE LADY . . .
Graphic artist Genevieve L’Esperance has got it all together, even by tough New York standards: A thriving career, a spacious Upper East Side condo, even a sort-of boyfriend named Barry. But the one thing she *doesn’t* have is something Americans take for granted . . . and if she’s found out it’ll mean the end of life as she knows it. And now the law is closing in on her . . .
THE LADY AND THE LAWYER . . .
Gen’s friend Barry comes up with a solution and quickly moves her to a rented room uptown while he finalizes arrangements to keep her safe. While Gen is grateful to him, she can’t help feeling that she’s sold out her future. But then Barry’s master plan gets delayed, and when she meets Dexter Gray, the struggling law student who occupies the other room on the floor, things *really* start to get complicated . . .
Available for purchase at
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A Snowy White Christmas

by Josie RivieraBlurb: 

Margaret Snow doesn’t believe in fairy tales, but as a devoted mother she’s determined to give her five-year-old daughter a Christmas filled with heart-warming memories. The once successful swimsuit model in glamorous LA returns to her small, snowy upstate New York town to buy back the foreclosed trailer she once called home. Her menagerie of rescue animals travel with her, including a deaf parrot and a kitten with one eye.

She doesn’t expect to see her former high school sweetheart, the athletic, ever-popular, and decisive Fernando Brandt, nor his dwarf twin brother.
Sparks fly when she realizes that the teenage hockey star is now a successful Realtor who is also interested in her dilapidated trailer for reasons of his own.
But can she resist the handsome, charismatic Prince Charming a second time?
And can she surrender her insecurities and accept the true gift of Christmas, finally feeling worthy of unconditional love?
Available for purchase at
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All He Wants for Christmas
by Elisabeth Naughton, Alexandra Ivy, Cynthia Eden, Katie Reus, Laura Wright, Skye Jordan
 
Blurb:

From six of your favorite New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors… 
 
Here’s to finding spies, cops, rockers, SEALs, professional hockey players and billionaires under the Christmas tree this year! 
MELT FOR ME by Elisabeth Naughton
Yuletide Spirits pub owner Ella McKinley doesn’t do holidays. Not after everything she lost on a cold, snowy night long ago. In fact, she’d be perfectly happy if the calendar jumped from November to January, bypassing December all together. Then rock’s latest “it” guy, Tate Kendrick, rolls into town, and though Ella tries to resist his wicked charm, the heat they once shared flares hotter than ever. When trouble linked to the rock star strikes at her pub, Ella suddenly starts to wonder if the return of her first love is a holiday miracle or nothing more than her nightmare before Christmas.

 

SWEET RAPTURE by Alexandra Ivy
Meg Anderson has returned to her home in Holly, North Carolina after she discovered her relationship with Dylan Cain was nothing more than a lie. The last thing she expects is for Dylan to be her new tenant. Or the realization that he might be the only thing standing between her and a killer…
THE SPY WHO CAME FOR CHRISTMAS by Cynthia Eden
Everyone in town thinks that Jemma White is as sweet as the delicious treats she makes at her chocolate shop—but they’re wrong. Jemma is ready to let her wild side out, and she’s just found the perfect man to make all of her fantasies come true. Grayson Cole is a too-sexy-to-be-true stranger who has escaped to Holly for the holidays. He is her perfect temptation, and Jemma can’t wait to steam up the cold winter nights with him. But when danger from Grayson’s past follows him to town, she realizes that the man she is falling for has been keeping some very dark secrets…secrets that may just get them both killed.
MERRY CHRISTMAS, BABY by Katie Reus
After unexpectedly inheriting a bookstore, Nora and her younger sister settled in Holly, NC, a place where it’s Christmas year-round. As the legal guardian for her sister the past few years, romance has been the last thing on Nora’s mind. But she broke her rules for the town’s golden boy—former SEAL Jackson O’Connor. When Jackson does something stupid and almost loses Nora for good, he realizes just how far he’s willing to go for the woman who’s stolen his heart. But it might take a Christmas miracle to get Nora to give him a second chance.
SINFUL IN SNOW by Laura Wright
Billionaire Back In Town: Gabriel Fox is a ruthless, heartless, soulless grinch. His only goal in coming to Holly, North Carolina is to ruin Carol Cardini’s Christmas. Like she ruined his—and his life—ten years ago. Now that her business is in trouble, he’s finally found the way. But the beautiful owner of Christmas Carol’s Shop and Crafts won’t allow her dream to be destroyed. Not by revenge, and certainly not by the sexiest man she’s ever known. She can, however offer an apology, and a chair at her holiday table. But can a grinch’s cold heart be warmed and healed by the love of a good woman—and the magic of Christmas spirit?
HOME ADVANTAGE by Skye Jordan
NHL super star, Meier Grant, finds himself sidelined for a bum shoulder and sentenced to three weeks recovery—in his hometown of Holly, North Carolina. But an extended family stay isn’t on his holiday wish list, especially when his parents are more interested in capitalizing on his fame than much needed family bonding. So when he learns the high school beauty and so out-of-his-league Faith Nicholas is suddenly single, and even sexier ten years later, home doesn’t seem so bad. Not when it includes spending some quality bonding time with Faith. Meier may have some of the best moves in the league, but will they be enough to win a woman deserving of forever?
Available for purchase at
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Unexpectedly Lucky 
(The Bradford Boys Series, #1)
by Carly Rose
 
Blurb:

Lincoln has a playful and easygoing personality. His friendship with Ryan started in the fifth grade and they’ve shared a shadow ever since.
Ryan is confident, outgoing, and his friendship with Lincoln has always been effortless. Closer than brothers, they’ve stood by each other through thick and thin.
College is separating them for the very first time, and while neither of them looks forward to spending four years apart, it’s all part of their master plan. Now that they’re older, Lincoln and Ryan are both hoping to fulfill their shared dreams: finding someone special to love, living next door, and barbecues with their families.
Then, the unthinkable happens. An alcohol infused night of passion threatens to destroy the future they’d planned to share. Will the emotional fallout drive them apart or will they be lucky enough to find love unexpectedly?
Previously published in Finding Love: Boxed Set of M/M Stories That Celebrate Pride.
Available for purchase at
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Lost & Found

(A Ring in a Cowboy Boxset novella) 

by Amanda McIntrye

Limited Edition releases December 28, 2015 
Blurb:
A failed spring break affair leaves city girl, Anna Worthington and country boy, Cole Tanner convinced that love at first sight isn’t possible. Now, a decade later, fate brings them together on New Years Eve with the challenge that sometimes a second chance is all the heart needs.
Available for purchase at
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Match Me Later
(Chinese Zodiac Romance Series, #2.5)
by Rachael Slate
Blurb: He’s ruled by responsibilityRyden Wentworth doesn’t do casual. But when the fox spirit Naya stalks him at a nightclub and lures him into her bed, she awakens desires he’s long suppressed. She’s fiery, sensual, and powerful enough to fend off his darker side. Yet initiating her means he can only have her for one night, and sharing Naya isn’t something he can reconcile.She’s bred for promiscuity

Naya of the Fox Spirits has chosen the perfect human male to initiate her. Ryden is strong, sexy, and the potent energy rolling off him leaves her craving more. Her destiny lies ahead, yet she can’t forget that tantalizing encounter in her past. She tries to leave him, but staying away from Ryden isn’t just torture, it’s killing her.

One night of passion binds them
Their night together has complicated consequences. Ryden can’t forget Naya, and she can’t live without him. Her race is dying, and Naya must team up with Ryden to fend off enemies preying on her weakened sisters. But the secret he hides has the power to shield the fox spirits from extinction…or to destroy them all.
Available for purchase at
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Soul Warrior 
(The Age of Kali Series, #1)

by Falguni KothariBlurb: 

Twisted myths. Discretion advised.
Fight fate, or succumb to destiny?
In the dark Age of Kali, the Soul Warrior alone stands guard over the Human Realm, protecting its denizens from evil-willed asuras or demons. When a trick of fate appoints him guru to a motley crew of godlings, he agrees to train them as demon hunters against his better judgment. Suddenly, Lord Karna is not only battling the usual asuras with sinister agendas, but also rebellious students and a fault-ridden past.
Spanning the cosmic realms of mythic India, here is a tale of a band of supernatural warriors who come together over a singular purpose: the salvation of Karna’s secret child.
Available for purchase at
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Obsession 
(The Reckless Rockwoods Series, #1)
by Monica Burns
 
Blurb:

WARNING: Contains a sexy, uptight earl with a secret that haunts him, and a heroine determined to have her independence while overcoming the dark pain of her past. Two people trying find their way to each other in Jack the Ripper’s London,where deeply buried passions explode in a world gone mad with terror. 
Helen Rivenall is willing to do anything to escape the brutality of her uncle’s home. But a promise of honest employment in London is a ruse. Drugged and auctioned off in a notorious brothel, she finds herself won by a man who wants nothing from her except her participation in a harmless charade. Left with no choice, she reluctantly agrees, but as their web of lies grows, so does temptation and the realization that sensual pleasures and sin are often one and the same.
Sebastian Rockwood, Earl of Melton is head of the Rockwood clan who are descendants of the Stewarts. Haunted by a dark secret, Sebastian has learned that control is a personal trait to be valued above all others. He’s also learned never to give his heart to anyone. The risk is too great. Yet where Helen is concerned, his prized control is slowly giving way to a need that threatens to consume him, and all too quickly he discovers nothing can protect him from the ultimate obsession—love.
When Helen is kidnapped by a madman, Sebastian realizes the only part of his world that matters is Helen, even if she chooses to love someone else. Set against the backdrop of Jack the Ripper’s diabolical murders, this sensual historical romance is the story of two injured souls struggling to find each other despite the pain of their pasts.
This book is the first in a series of Victorian historical sexy romance books that are filled with suspense, the paranormal, villains, and alpha males who hold sway over the women they love. The Reckless Rockwoods series is a family saga about men and women whose motto is to never refuse a challenge no matter what the reason. Whether it’s scandalous seductions, wild, wanton pleasures, suspenseful intrigue with ghosts or psychics, or tragedy of one sort of the other, each book focuses on a relationship with that love everlasting HEA.

Available for purchase atAmazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes 

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Trapped By Revenge 
(Shelby Nichols Series, #5)
by Colleen HelmeBlurb:

With summer over Shelby is looking forward to having some time to herself while the kids are back in school. A phone call from Uncle Joey ruins her plans, but she manages to take it in stride. After lunch with her friend, she promises to meet with the private investigator who was spying on Uncle Joey, but this simple task turns into a disaster. Not only does she find the P.I. dead, but a slip of paper with her name on it under his lifeless hand implicates her for his murder. Desperate to prove her innocence and find the person who killed him, Shelby begins a frantic search. She enlists the aid of the local mob boss, Uncle Joey, his hit-man, Ramos, and her police detective friend, Dimples, but soon finds that nothing can save her from becoming entangled in a sinister plot. With her life on the line and no way out, she finds herself trapped by revenge, and realizes it will take all her skills to escape. Now she must choose where her loyalties lie, and hope she doesn’t trade something bad, for something even worse.
Available for purchase at
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Ashwood Falls Volume One 
(Ashwood Falls Series, #0.5-2)
by Lia Davis
 
Blurb:

Winter Eve, prequel 
Danica Welsh was born to be the leopard pack healer. An accident involving a drug induced youth left her badly burned and scared—emotionally and physically. All hope of mating and family become a distant dream. When she finally starts to accepts the long, lonely existence ahead of her, a stranger crashes into her life, and her heart.
A Tiger’s Claim, book 1 
As the Alpha’s only daughter Shayna Andrews has always been treated like a rare gem, protected like royalty, and she’s suffocating. Her longing to be independent has driven her to sneak out one evening after dinner. After relishing in being able to run free without an escort, she finds herself face-to-face with the enemy, miles from home, and nearly loses her life until a lone wolf comes to her aid. But when he discovers she wears the enemy’s brand, things will go from bad to worse.
A Mating Dance, book 2 
Senior enforcer, Cameron Nickels has found her perfect mate. Blaine Andrews, leopard Pack Marshal, is strong, dominate, loyal, and passionate. He knows all her strengths and weaknesses—not to mention her pleasure points. Cam’s known Blaine most her life, but she’s always felt like something was missing and her jaguar refuses to fully accept him. Yet, she can’t walk away from him. When architect and sexy mountain lion shifter, Graham Griffin, comes to town to design the new den nursery and school, Cameron finds herself in a mating dance that throws her and her jaguar into flight mode while Blaine must decide if he cannot only share his mate, but welcome another.
Available for purchase at
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War’s Passion 
(Sons of War Series, #1)
by Lia Davis
 
Blurb: 
After losing her parents in a brutal attack from a monster straight out of her nightmares, Gwendolyn Preston tries to pick up the shattered pieces of her life. Along with her best friend, she moves to a small fishing village on the coast of Maine to find a new life away from the nightmares that haunt her. Just when she believes her life could go back to normal, the deliciously dark and handsome Markus Sullivan disrupts her hopes to grieve in peace.
Markus drew the short straw when it came to being the liaison between his father, Ares—God of War—and his brothers. When he discovers that the earth bound demi-gods, known as the descendants, have banded together to start another rebellion against the gods, it becomes his number one priority to stop them.
That is until he meets Gwen, the granddaughter of Aphrodite, and the next target of the descendants. Together, their path is rife with passion and danger. It might take more than the son of War to win this battle…Gwen herself.
Available for purchase at
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A Beary Sweet Holiday 
(Bears of Blackrock Series, #3)

by Lia DavisBlurb: 

The kitchen isn’t the only thing heating up this winter…

 

Tiffany Black, culinary artist and owner of Beary Sweets Café, is determined to make this year’s Winter Solstice celebration one to remember. Especially since it will also be the mating ceremony for her brother, Anthony, and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Connie. She wants everything to be perfect. Unfortunately, you can’t always get what you want. When she falls off a ladder in her café and breaks her ankle, she fears her plans are doomed. Until the sexy bear Healer, Holt, comes to the rescue—stirring up more than just recipes.
Mating has never been at the top of Holt’s to-do list, and he’s known Tiffany all her life. So when the mating urge slams into him after mending her ankle, he’s taken aback—unsure and intrigued at the same time. The girl he watched grow up is now a curvy, sensual woman, and his bear wants to claim her. He wants to claim her.
The stubborn female refuses to follow Healer’s orders and allow her ankle to heal, and she’s hell-bent on catering the winter celebrations. In order to do what needs to be done, she insists that he help her. Since it gives him an excuse to stay by her side, he’s all right with that. As they work side by side to make the Solstice unforgettable, their passions ignite, and things turn utterly delicious. The stubborn female won’t rest to let her ankle heal on it’s own. When she insists he helps her with the catering for the winter celebrations, he has his excuse to stay at her side as much as possible. The kitchen isn’t the only thing heating up this winter.
Available for purchase at
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Paranormal and Loving it!: A Paranormal Romance Box Set
by Allyson Lindt, Sofia Grey, and Sotia Lazu 
 
Blurb:
Three of today’s hottest romance authors come together to bring you this 9 book paranormal box set. Whether wolf shifters make you howl with pleasure, you prefer the wicked bite of a vampire, or the all-powerful hand of a demi-god is more your thing, Paranormal and Loving it! has something to send delicious chills racing through you.
Publisher’s Note: These books, previously only available individually, have been collected into this single box set for a fantastic price.
Operation: Santa’s Elf by Allyson Lindt
Dreaming of a Wolf by Sofia Grey
Unleashed by Sotia Lazu
Courting Mortality by Allyson Lindt
Caging the Wolf by Sofia Grey
Wolf for Christmas by Sotia Lazu
Seducing Destiny by Allyson Lindt
A Very Wolfie Christmas by Sofia Grey
Cherry Pop by Sotia Lazu
Available for purchase at
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If You Believe
by Mya O’Malley
 
Blurb:

Melody considers herself lucky that she has already found love once in a lifetime. Her love story, however, abruptly came to an end; all hope of finding love again disappeared the day she lost Jack.
Jack knows that Melody’s heart is big enough to give love a second chance, the challenge lies in helping her meet just the right man. Not sure if he’s an angel or a ghost, Jack finds himself searching for a man to make Melody feel alive once more. He had no idea how difficult it would be to face his conflicting emotions while finding this man. To top it off, he only has until Christmas Eve at midnight to help Melody fall in love.
Available for purchase at
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French Restitution

by Sara ClaridgeBlurb:

 

She’s chasing stolen money…
Stranded in rural France while on the hunt for her mother’s latest boyfriend and the money he stole only confirms what Madeleine Symthe already knows – love is just an illusion. But when an enigmatic Frenchman with secrets of his own comes to her rescue, Madeleine’s beliefs are tested to the limit.
He’s pursuing her heart…

For wealthy electronics magnate Jean-Luc Delacroix, the captivating Madeleine is a pleasant distraction, but a deeper relationship isn’t part of his agenda. As they close in on the mystery of the embezzler, can Jean-Luc persuade Madeleine that his love is everlasting, even if it means letting her go?

Available for purchase at
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Shards of Ice
by Catherine Mede
 
Blurb: 

Things are heating up on this Ice Planet.
Vyvica Karala, of the D’Authian Guards, had to leave her father behind when the Crown City of Althu was invaded by Ch’ar Barakus. She wants to find her father and is determined to retake the city, with or without the support of the D’Authian Guards.
Kelvaras Mason is a vigilante for hire and has been brought in by the D’Authian Guards to find a leak in their intelligence network. Ch’ar Barakus has also engaged his services; to bring in Vyvica Karala because she has information he needs.
While Vyvica wants to save Elador from Ch’ar, Kelvaras is conflicted in his loyalties. Vyvica and Kelvaras clash from the moment they meet and set the planet ablaze with their conflicts, yet they can’t resist each other.
But both hold dark secrets. If it were known, their lives would be at risk.
Will one of them make the ultimate sacrifice in order for the other to survive?
Available for purchase at
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*****
On Sale for $1.99
 
A Bluestocking Christmas

by Monica BurnsBlurb:

WARNING: An intelligent, well-read hero who uses illicit wordplay to get what he wants meets a librarian resistant to his words of seduction until the ghost of Christmas past comes calling.
Sinful words, wicked pleasures and a ghost all add up to A Bluestocking Christmas with a Dickens of a twist.
As a young man, Simon, Viscount Wycombe learned the painful truth that a tradesman’s daughter is suitable only for liaisons and nothing more. But Ivy Beecham is a far cry from his preconceived notions, and he’s determined to have her. But when she rejects him, it only increases his determination to seduce her into a world of sin and pleasure.
Ivy Beecham knows first-hand that handsome aristocrats like Simon can’t be trusted. But the intellectual scoundrel is hellbent on making her his mistress, using every means at his seductive disposal. When she refuses to give away her heart on Christmas Eve, a ghostly specter shows her in one night why her surrender can be the greatest gift of all.
Available for purchase at
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Hard to Let Go
(Hard Ink Series, #4)
by Laura Kaye
 
Blurb: 

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.
Beckett Murda hates to dwell on the past. But his investigation into the ambush that killed half his Special Forces team and ended his Army career gives him little choice. Just when his team learns how powerful their enemies are, hard-ass Beckett encounters the biggest complication yet—seductive, feisty Katherine Rixey.
A tough, stubborn prosecutor, Kat visits her brothers’ Hard Ink Tattoo following a bad break-up—and finds herself staring down the barrel of a stranger’s gun. Beckett is hard-bodied and sexy as hell, but he’s also the most infuriating man ever. Worse, Kat’s brothers are at war with criminals her office is investigating. When Kat joins the fight, she lands straight in Beckett’s sights—and his arms. Not to mention their enemies’ crosshairs.
Now Beckett and Kat must set aside their differences to work together, because the only thing sweeter than justice is finding love and never letting go.

Available for purchase atAmazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Kobo

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*****
On Sale for $2.99
Merry Random Christmas 
(Random Series, #8)
by Julia Kent
 
Blurb: 
It all started with a game of Truth or Dare…
It’s bad enough I got arrested for prostitution on Christmas Eve. Alleged prostitution, mind you. I didn’t do it. Of course I didn’t. The cops say I offered up a certain sex act for a $5 gasoline gift card, but honey?
My sex acts are worth way, way more.
So when I tried to explain what happened to the person who came and bailed me out of jail, she wasn’t exactly impressed.
Because it was my boyfriend’s mother.
Now, I got two boyfriends, so Murphy’s Law said it had to be the mother I hate the most. And she hates me right back. Even more now that I lost her son.
That’s right. Where in the hell are Joe and Trevor? It’s Christmas Eve, and I keep getting pictures on social media showing Joe and Trevor all oiled up in g-strings that look like candy canes, dancing with a bunch of well-coiffed older women.
I, on the other hand, am wearing Santa pants, flip flops, and smell like jail cell pee.
That game of Truth or Dare turns out to be way more dangerous than anyone expected.
And our savior? It ain’t the baby Jesus. Not the three wise men. No little drummer boy. Not even the donkey that carried the Virgin Mary on its back while she howled for an epidural.
Nope. Can you guess?
That’s right.
Mavis the Chicken.
Can she help us out of this clustercluck?
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Merry Random Christmas is the eighth book in the New York Times bestselling Random series. Join the gang on Christmas Eve as Darla is unfairly arrested, Trevor and Joe are forced to become strippers, and candy canes appear in places where sugar is a bad, bad idea in this crazy, rollicking romp.
Available for purchase at
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Mustangs Baseball Special Edition Boxed Set: Volume One (Mustangs Baseball #1-3)
By by Roz Lee
Blurb: 

 

 

 

USA Today Bestselling Author Roz Lee has combined the prequel novella and the first four full-length novels in the Mustangs Baseball Series in this Special Edition Boxed Set.
Free Agent – (prequel novella – Todd & Brooke) She’s more than he bargained for.
Inside Heat – Book 1 – (Jeff & Megan) It’s all fun and games until someone falls in love.
Going Deep – Book 2 – (Jason & Carrie) Control is the name of the game.
Bases Loaded – Book 3 – (Antonio & Clare) He’s through playing games.
Available for purchase at
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Mustangs Baseball Special Edition Boxed Set: Volume Two (Mustangs Baseball #4-6)
by Roz LeeBlurb: 

USA Today Bestselling author, Roz Lee presents Volume Two of the Mustangs Baseball Special Edition Boxed Set. Set contains three full-length novels plus Seasoned Veteran – a Christmas novella.
Available for a limited time only. Save 25% of list price.
Switch Hitter – Book 4 – He’s at home on both sides of the plate.
Spring Training – Book 5 – It takes discipline to play the game.
Strike Out – Book 6 – She’ll break his game down into a science.
Seasoned Veteran – Christmas Novella – There’s no age limit on falling in love.
Available for purchase at
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Uniform: A Man in Uniform MM Bundle
by Ethan Stone, E.M. Leya, Sara York, Whitley Gray, Brenda Cothern, H.L. Holston, and Eleanor Bruce
 
Blurb: 

 

Meet the men in uniform. These are everyday men who put on a uniform and become our heroes. Through good times and bad, they are there to save the day, sacrificing more than most of us can imagine as they put their lives on hold in service to us.
Love doesn’t wait until life is calm, and sometimes it’s the pressure of the job that throws two men together. Under stress and demand, they find solace in each other, forming bonds that can’t be ignored.
Follow our heroes as they fight not only for what is right and just, but also for their hearts and the men they love.
Recruited by Brenda Cothern 
Michael Knight. No, not that Michael Knight, but undercover Officer Michael Knight in Tampa. Being fed up with the harassment and practical jokes from his co-workers for the last two months, he finally snaps and requests a transfer, little does he know he’s already been recruited by another agency. Lone wolf Aaron Slade was not very happy about being assigned a partner, but he still makes an attempt to introduce himself so Knight won’t be surprised they are working together come Monday morning.
The Last Easy Day by Whitley Gray 
The day Lieutenant Kurt Crandall entered Navy SEAL training, the last person he expected to encounter was the guy who seduced him two nights ago. Despite the risk, Kurt can’t resist JJ’s invitation for a covert fling. Days short of graduation JJ drops out; he shows up eight years later, newly assigned to the SEAL team under Kurt’s command. It doesn’t take long for them to succumb to temptation. A fellow SEAL tries to stir up trouble, but the threat pales when a mission leaves a life hanging in the balance.
Love Undercover by E.M. Leya 
Nick spent the last few years deep undercover, trying to bring down one of the most notorious biker gangs in the country. As the case is coming to a close, one last surprise puts all his hard work at risk.
Tony didn’t think he’d ever see Nick again after they went their separate ways, both choosing their careers over love. Still, he never forgot how good it was between them, and the memories kept him going over the years.
Be it bad luck or fate, the two men are thrown together once more when Nick comes home to find Tony with a gun to his head, and his life in Nick’s hands.
Hand to Hand by H.L. Holston and Eleanor Bruce
Navy medic Gavin Rathman has been attracted to his Lieutenant, Jackson Blackwater, ever since they were put on the same SEAL team. When Jack is shot on a mission in Afghanistan and put on medical leave, Gavin finally has the opportunity to act on those desires.
But when Jack recovers, and Gavin and he are paired up again, will their status as lovers change their working relationship? It could prove to be disastrous. Is it a gamble worth taking?
One More Time by Ethan Stone 
Small town cop Will Jacoby is comfortable in his life until he starts to see his younger neighbor and friend in a different light. Brannon Frost is a handsome young man and Will is confused by his interest. After the death of Brannon’s father Will is no longer able to deny his feelings, even though it could damage his carefully constructed life and career.
Training Buds by Sara York 
Dixon Carter’s world is shattered when he finds his husband cheating, but heading to BUDs training might be the only thing that saves him. Once in California he puts his all into the class and the last thing he’s looking for is someone to love.
Kyle Sauter wants to make his dad proud, and that means never admitting that he is gay. So far, he’s hidden his desires, kept his lust at bay, and has vowed to continue on the path of celibacy.

 

Available for purchase at
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*****
On Sale for $3.99



How to Fall
by Rebecca Brooks 
 
Blurb: 
 
One week of adventure might just lead to love…
Julia Evans has always put others ahead of herself—her high school math students, her troubled best friend, and her ex. But with New Year’s approaching, she buys a round trip ticket to Brazil. For one week, she can put her needs first. She can meet a stranger in the hotel pool at midnight and dance all night on the beach.
Screenwriter Blake Williams has to keep moving before Oz’s latest scandal catches up to him. But the dark-haired beauty with a backpack and an adventurous streak is messing with his plans. He can’t seem to walk away from her. But secrets have a way of coming out, and when the week is up, Julia and Blake will have to decide if they’re jumping into the biggest adventure of all or playing it safe.
Available for purchase at
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Ice Moon 
(Moon Series, #5)
by Lisa Kessler 
 
Blurb: 
 
“Lisa Kessler is an up and coming author to remember!” – Sherrilyn Kenyon #1 NYT Bestselling Author
One touch and she is his…
Jared Ayers works outdoors, embracing a solitary life, hiding from his inner demons. But after so many of his Pack brothers have found their mates, he starts wondering if there might be a mate in his future too. His world turns upside down after he’s hired by the “Ice Queen of Lake Tahoe”. One touch is all it takes. One touch to send the wolf howling within…
A gifted psychic with pyrokinesis, Taryn Goldstone wields fire beyond her control- sometimes with dire consequences. With Jason, she discovers that some flames are meant for passion-and healing. She has enemies who covet her powerful gift, but they are about to learn just how far a wolf will go to protect his mate.
Available for purchase at
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Neverwylde 
(The Rim of the World Series, #2)

by Linda Mooney

 

Blurb: 
Worse than losing his life would be to lose the woman he loves.
Stranded on a half world in an unknown galaxy, seven Terrans and four Seneecians have declared an uneasy truce. But when three more Seneecians arrive at the temple, including their leader thought to be dead, the balance of power suddenly shifts.
The Seneecian D’har immediately assumes command, and he makes it clear the Terrans are now under his jurisdiction. Everyone must obey his rule as he takes full control of their weapons, their lives, and the only female, Kelen. But when Kyber announces that he and Kelen have mated, Kyber is banished from their midsts.
What follows is a harrowing ordeal as Kelen Chambliss fights to be reunited with the Seneecian who has claimed her heart, and Kyber struggles to survive long enough to get her back.
Available for purchase at
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*****

On Sale for $9.99

Home Collection (Home)
by Cardeno C.
 
Blurb: 
7 full-length, free-standing, feel good novels.
Where He Ends & I Begin: For best friends Jake & Nate the question isn’t how they ended up in bed together but how they stay there.
Walk With Me: Serious, responsible Seth longs for sexy, outspoken Eli but must decide if he’s willing to veer from his safe life-plan.
The One Who Saves Me: Boyfriends come & go but best friends are forever has always been Andrew & Caleb’s mantra. Can they be both?
Love at First Sight: David must find the courage to share himself & Jonathan must find the strength to tell the truth.
Home Again: Two men whose love has never faltered relive their most treasured moments in order to secure their future.
Just What the Truth Is: If Ben wants to find love with Micah, he’ll have to own up to the truth of who he is.
He Completes Me: Aaron has waited years for a man who can share his heart and he insists it’s party boy Zach.
Available for purchase at
We hope you have found some books for you to enjoy! 
Let us know which one of the above goodies you grabbed!! 
Presented By

Happy Release Day to Donna Grant and her new Reaper series

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Enjoy sneak peek into the Dark Alpha’s Claim and the world of the Reapers

 *****

Dark Alpha’s Claim 

(Reaper Series, #1)
Dark Alpha's Claim Book Cover
There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I am coming for you…
My whole existence is based on taking what Death wants. Born to eliminate Fae guilty of unforgivable crimes, my reckless, wild nature makes me the perfect assassin to carry out Death’s bidding. I’ve seen more sinister and violent dealings than anyone could ever imagine. But it was the sight of her face that stopped me cold. I’ve never wanted a woman-never mind a human-so badly; never felt my heart, hardened by death, burn brighter and hotter until it burst into flames. She is everything I desire. The kind of woman that compels you to stake your claim on her, to let the world know that she’s yours. A Reaper saving her life will only attract danger, but I vow to protect her at all costs from the Fae that hunt her, and keep safe the woman who has claimed me, body and soul.
Available for purchase at
                  
Excerpt:

Baylon was sitting on the steps outside the library watching the mortals when he saw her. She stood out amongst the humans like a star in the midnight sky.

Her beauty was undeniable, catching the attention of everyone around her – though she didn’t seem to notice. He liked the way her dark blond hair was cut short and trendy with it swept to the side in the front. A pixie cut, he thought he heard a human call it.

The mortal was tall and thin, with every curve just the right size. Her turquoise eyes were large, and there was a hint of innocence about them that drew him again and again.

She wore large earrings that brought more attention to her beautiful oval face. Her brows were thin and arched delicately over her eyes. When she smiled, she dazzled. Her lips were just wide and full enough to be alluring.

He’d laughed when he heard her mumble “jerk” to the man who hadn’t held the door for her.

He knew immediately that she had Fae blood. It wasn’t just her beauty. There was an air about her that was as distinctive as a beacon. And he was happy he found her before the others.

Baylon waited outside the library for another glimpse of her. She walked out a short time later carrying a large book. She was entranced by it. Several people had to walk around her because she wasn’t looking where she was going— she was too intent on reading.

He wanted to see what kind of book was so interesting. When he put himself in her path, he never expected to look down at a tome all about the Fae.

His shock was quickly replaced with a blinding and penetrating desire when they bumped into each other. Then she looked up at him.

He was completely taken by her, tumbling into incredible turquoise eyes.

If he didn’t speak, he was liable to do something stupid—like kiss her. His gaze lowered to her lips, an ache gripping him, begging him to take her. To taste her.

“Sorry,” she said.

Her Scots accent was soft and lilting. Beautiful, just as she was. What was it about this half-Fae that held him enthralled so? “Must be an interesting book.”

Her gaze slowly raked over him, heating his blood to such a degree that he fisted his hands to keep from touching her. Didn’t she realize she was playing with fire?

If her gaze wasn’t so guileless, Baylon would have suspected she was proficient in teasing a man to such a degree. But it was the need in her own eyes that made his cock instantly hard.

“It is.”

He glanced down at the page she was reading. “Fae, huh?”

“Research,” she said breathlessly.

Warning bells went off in Baylon’s head. Research? Did she know she had Fae blood? It was time he found out more about her. Besides, he was going to make sure none of the other Reapers found her.

“Good luck with your research.” He bowed his head and walked around her.

He then stopped and turned to watch her, wondering if she would look back at him. To his exasperation, she didn’t.

About the Author: 

Donna Grant is the New York Timesand USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

You can find Donna at:                       
Presented By

 

Spotlight Feature: Edge of Danger by Katie Reus + an awesome giveaway

EDGE OF DANGER

edge of danger

Deadly Ops #4
November 3, 2015
Amazon | B&N

The new Deadly Ops novel from the New York Times bestselling author of Shattered Duty—in the series that delivers “fast-paced romantic suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat!”*

When an assassin tries to kill undercover DEA agent Tucker Pankov the same week his boss is taken out, Tucker has good reason to be paranoid. And when other members of his elite team are not only targeted, but stripped of top-secret security clearance, Tucker has one shot at discovering who wants them dead—and why. So he kidnaps the only woman he thinks can save them.

Brilliant NSA analyst Karen Stafford doesn’t like being forced into anything, especially by someone she doesn’t trust. Yet after a hijacked US-owned drone starts attacking government installations resulting in mass casualties, Karen has to take Tucker’s side. Now, two unlikely allies must unite to prevent an escalating and unthinkable terrorist conspiracy. But as Tucker and Karen grow intimate, they realize the conspiracy runs deep, and their enemies are closer than anyone realized.

Excerpt: (Copyright © 2015)

At the sound of an engine revving, she glanced over her shoulder. The SUV was pulling out of the spot and heading in her direction. Her heart rate kicked up. She knew she was probably acting crazy but didn’t care. Veering off the sidewalk, she raced through the park where vehicles couldn’t go. As she cleared a cluster of trees without the sound of running feet coming after her, she let out a shaky breath and kept up her pace.

Risking a glance over her shoulder, she nearly stumbled when she saw a man dressed in all black step out from the trees.

That face.

Holy shit. Recognition slammed into her with the intensity of a battering ram. With a scarf around his neck and a knit cap on his head, she couldn’t spot one of the distinguishing features she’d seen in the file she had on him. But she knew he had a jagged scar around his neck and tended to favor shaving his head.

She knew it was him from his icy blue eyes.

Grisha. A murdering psychopath.

Fear took hold, its unforgiving grip squeezing around her chest like a vise, colder than the winter morning air.

Though she wanted to run, she stopped and spun around on the sidewalk, raising her bear spray with a steady hand. No one could withstand this if she shot it in their face, and she just wanted the chance to get away. She certainly wasn’t going to take the guy on in hand-to-hand combat. “Get back!” she shouted, her finger steady on the trigger. She was glad she wasn’t outwardly shaking. She needed to paint a picture of calm even if she was trembling inside.

To her surprise, he held up his hands and almost looked apologetic as he watched her. “I don’t want to hurt you, Karen.”

Holy hell, he knew her name. So this definitely wasn’t random. Because why would this guy be in Baltimore of all places, in the same park she ran by almost every day? Did he know who she worked for? God, he probably wanted to torture her for information. She wasn’t going to stand around and ask him a bunch of questions. The facts that he knew her name and was a violent criminal were enough for her to run for her life.

Whirling around, she raced down the sidewalk, her heart beating out of control, the sound of her blood rushing in her ears so loud she couldn’t tell how close he was behind her.

She wanted to pull out her phone, but she’d strapped it around her ankle so it would be out of her way. She couldn’t risk slowing down. If she could just get somewhere public, maybe she could flag someone for help.

As she moved deeper into the park, she cursed herself for coming this way, but he’d been blocking her exit. As she risked another glance over her shoulder, full-blown panic exploded inside her like fireworks. He was about twenty feet behind her and closing. He moved fast for such a big man, and she knew he wouldn’t stop. The range on her spray was thirty feet, so she could take him. She’d only get one shot at this, so she had to do it right.

His expression was grim and he said something to her, but she couldn’t hear anything above the blood rushing in her ears.

She could keep running, but he was going to reach her soon. And she knew without a doubt she’d lose against him in any sort of physical altercation. She’d seen pictures of what he’d done to someone who’d crossed him. This might be her only chance to get away or at least get help. Drawing in a deep breath, she let out a bloodcurdling scream, hoping someone would hear her as she stopped and turned to spray him.

Still screaming, she had started to press the trigger when a blur of motion out of the corner of her eye made her stumble backward.

A man in similar attire burst from the trees lining the sidewalk. There were two of them!

Pressing the trigger, she started spraying wildly as the newcomer tackled her. She flew back against the sidewalk, her head slamming against it as she lost her grip on the bear spray.

“Don’t hurt her!” Grisha shouted.

But that couldn’t be right. Unless he wanted to be the one to inflict pain. She tried to struggle, but the other man was on top of her and had her in a tight grip. She couldn’t stop gasping, her chest terrifyingly tight. She couldn’t breathe through the panic pressing in on her. Every horrible photo or crime scene she’d ever seen at work crashed in on her at once. She didn’t want to be a fucking statistic! She blinked as everything around her became fuzzy. Stay awake, she ordered herself as the edges of her vision started to fade.

No, no, no. She couldn’t be unconscious around these monsters. But she couldn’t control her breathing. It was too fast, too panicked. Pins and needles erupted in her hands and feet. Her eyeballs felt as if they were bulging. The edges of her vision closed in. Her body refused to listen as darkness swept her under.

Make sure to check out Kelly’s review of Edge of Danger HERE

 

Katie Reus_authorphotoAbout Katie:

Katie Reus is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

For more information on Katie find her here: Sign up for Katie’s newsletter Website | Facebook | Twitter

 

 

 

*****GIVEAWAY TIME*****

​Penguin has giving me permission to give away a complete set of print books of the Deadly Ops series.
That is correct!!!  You will get all 4 books.
This contest is for US Residents only!!!!!
To Enter please leave a comment or question.
Winner will be picked and announce on November 13th

****Giveaway sponsored by Penguin****

Donna Grant’s Dark Kings Playlist Tour: Tristan

Books-n-Kisses is honored to help Donna celebrate the release of Passion Ignites (bk7) by being a part of her Dark Kings Playlist Tour.  

Today we are featuring: Tristan from Fire Rising.

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Before we get to the playlist let’s take a look atTristan’s book

fire rising

Amazon| B&N | Find more order links on Donna’s website

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Tristan, the newest Dragon King, is having a tough time fitting in. Despite his ability to transform into a proud, strong dragon at will, no one knows where he came from or how he became a Dragon King, including himself. When trouble arises in the form of the mob, Tristan is going to have to put aside his questions and band with the other Dragon Kings to protect Dreagan. As if things weren’t complicated enough, he is about to find something worth fighting for more important than the Dragon Kings…

Sammie Miller, pub owner in Oban, has been scorned by her business partner—and former lover. Used as a front for money laundering with the mob, Sammie is in great danger once she realizes what has happened. Barely escaping, she plans to rest at Dreagan for only a day before going back on the run. When Tristan swears to protect her, Sammie thinks his efforts will be in vain—the mob is too powerful, and it will take more than the average man’s devotion to keep her safe. But the closer she gets to Tristan, and the more he learns his secrets, Sammie can’t deny that having a Dragon King who worships you, body and soul, isn’t such a bad thing…

Find Kelly’s review of Fire Rising HERE

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*****

Now, let’s take a look at Tristan’s playlist.  The Killers, Arctic Monkeys, The Rolling Stones, The Black Keys and The Fray what an awesome play list.

To listen to Tristan’s play list click here

TristanPlayList

 

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And did you know that yesterday (11/3/15) Donna released the 7th book in her Dark King series?

Let’s take a look at Thorn & Lexi’s book

PassionIgnites0wkFINAL

Passion Ignites

Dark Kings #7

Passion Ignites Book Cover

Amazon | KindleAmazon UK | Kindle UK B&N | Nook |  iBooksKobo

He consumed her with that kiss, leaving no question that whatever was happening between them was meant to be—that it had always been meant to be…

HE LOVES FOR ETERNITY

Thorn is the bad boy of the Dragon Kings, a gorgeous, reckless warrior whose passions run wild and fury knows no bounds. When he sees the brave, beautiful Lexi being lured into the Dark Fae’s trap, he has no choice but to rescue her from a fate worse than death. But by saving this tempting mortal, he exposes himself to his fiercest enemy—and darkest desires. As the war between Dragons and Fae heats up, so does the passion between Lexi and Thorn. And when love is a battlefield, the heart takes no prisoners…

SHE LIVES FOR VENGEANCE

Lexi is on a mission of justice. Every day, she searches for the monster who murdered her friend. Every night, she hides in the shadows and plots her revenge. But the man she seeks is more dangerous than she ever imagined. He is one of the Dark Fae who preys on human life, who uses his unearthly power to seduce the innocent, and who is setting a trap just for her. Nothing can save Lexi from a creature like this—except the one man who’s been watching her every move.

Check out Kelly’s review of Passion Ignites HERE

 

donna_grant_newDonna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories. She’s the author of more than thirty novels spanning multiple genres of romance including the bestselling Dark King stories, Dark Craving, Night’s Awakening, and Dawn’s Desire.Her acclaimed Dark Warrior and Dark Sword series novels feature a thrilling combination of Druids, primeval gods, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible.

 

 

 

 

Check out all of the Dark Kings books on Donna’s website 

Dark Kings Series Collage

 

*****GIVEAWAY TIME*****

St. Martins Press has giving me the okay to giveaway

two paperback copies of FIRE RISING and two paperback copies of PASSION IGNITES!!!

4 Books!!! 4 Winners!!!!

To enter please fill out the Rafflecopter below.

 

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Guest blogger: Lynnette Austin + a giveaway

Best Laid Wedding Plans graphic

Misty Bottoms Character Profiles
Full Name: James Donald Belcher
Nickname: Jimmy Don
Occupation: Sheriff
Physical description: Five-feet-eleven, brown hair and eyes, and a good twenty pounds too heavy. He dresses in full uniform and a wide-brimmed trooper’s hat.
Age: 42

Describe yourself in 100 words or less:

People tend to think of me as a donut-eatin’, coffee-drinkin’ stereotype of a small-town sheriff. They might add that I’m a little on the lazy side. Don’t let any of that fool you. I’ve got my finger on the pulse of both Misty Bottoms and its citizens.

Jenni Beth Beaumont’s moving back, intent on turning the town into some kind of fancy wedding destination. I don’t doubt that she can do it. That girl’s got more drive than a Chevy pickup. I can handle the change. A lot of the townsfolk forget I have a degree in criminal justice as well as my police academy training. I know my job, and I take it very seriously.

What is your favorite thing about living in Misty Bottoms? Where in Misty Bottoms can you most often be found?

The folks here are good, up-standing citizens. I don’t go to work in the morning worrying about bank robberies or hostage situations. Once in a while, one of the teens might paper somebody’s house or, on a Saturday night, someone has a little too much at Duffy’s Pub and I have to give him a ride home. For the most part, though, we have a quiet little town. Never boring, though. Big difference there.

I hang out at Dee-Ann’s Diner quite a bit. Not because I like to eat, although her pies are some of the best you’ll ever taste, but because it keeps me plugged in with what’s happening. I hear a heck of a lot more there than I do riding around in my cruiser.

When not working, how do you spend your time?

I enjoy woodworking, so I spend a lot of time in my shop with my pal Virgil. Right now, we’re crafting a coffee table for his son and daughter-in-law. When my wife replaced our fridge, I hauled the old one out there and bought a new flat screen TV. Virgil had a couple old chairs he dragged in. We’ve got ourselves a pretty good little place to catch the games.

If money was no object and you had 3 weeks of vacation, what would you do with your time?

I haven’t seen my older brother Owen in more years than I care to think about. He’s living up in Sitka, Alaska. If I had the time and money, that’s where I’d head. My wife’s been bugging me to do that ever since she watched Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock in that movie, The Proposal. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told her they didn’t actually film the movie there, that they did it somewhere in Massachusetts. But will she listen? Heck, no. It would be nice, though, to see Owen again.

Describe your dream wedding: 

Seriously? My dream wedding? To be honest, I’d let the flowers and all that up to my wife. I’ve learned that it’s easiest just to go along. You know what I would like, though? I saw a picture on the internet of a couple who had their cake made from Krispy Kreme donuts. Now that would be somethin’ I could get behind.

*****

Best Laid Wedding Plans coverThe Best Laid Wedding Plans
Author: Lynnette Austin
Series: Magnolia Brides, Book 1
ISBN: 9781492617976
Release date: November 3, 2015
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Imprint: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Order here: Amazon | B&N | Indiebound |Apple

Summary:
SOME DREAMS ARE WORTH WHATEVER IT TAKES

Jenni Beth Beaumont left her broken heart behind when she took her dream job in Savannah. But after her brother’s death, Jenni Beth returns home to help mend her parents’ hearts as well as restore their beautiful but crumbling antebellum mansion. New dreams take shape as Jenni Beth sets to work replacing floors and fixing pipes to convert the family homestead into the perfect wedding destination. However, some folks in their small Southern town are determined to see her fail.

Cole Bryson was once the love of Jenni Beth’s life, but the charming architectural salvager has plans of his own for the Beaumont family home. As the two butt heads,

old turmoil is brought to the surface and Cole and Jenni Beth will have to work through some painful memories and tough realities before they can set their pasts aside and have a second chance at their own happily ever after.

Excerpt

Her experienced gaze scrutinized the scene, took in both the setting and the people, alert for any problems. The arbor, with its draping of wisteria, had turned out beautifully and smelled like heaven itself. The bride’s family, the groom’s family—both wore expressions of happiness mixed with a touch of relief.

Jenni Beth’s eyes drifted to the flower girl. Daniella was antsy, her little fingers busily plucking the lace from the basket that held rose petals. And what in the world was Ricky, the ring bearer, doing to his shoelaces? Her eyes narrowed. Had he tied them together? Oh, boy.

As the sun set, the minister announced the newly joined Mr. and Mrs. Talbot, and Jenni Beth clapped with the rest of the guests while checking to make sure the walkway remained clear. The music began on cue, and the happy couple started down the aisle, hands laced, smiles bright.

When the ring bearer tripped, the best man scooped him onto one shoulder, diverting a minor catastrophe. She’d have to remember to thank him for the quick thinking.

If the reception went as smoothly, she could congratulate herself on a job well done.

While the bride and groom funneled their guests through the receiving line, Jenni Beth bolted to a separate section of the garden to make sure the cake, the bubbly, and the band were in place. She did a last-minute check on table settings, place cards, candles—the list was never ending.

The music started, the bridal party wended their way to the area, and the celebration began.

As the evening wore on, Jenni Beth relaxed.

A familiar voice whispered in her ear. “Dance with me.”

Cole Bryson. She hadn’t seen his name on the guest list.

Shivers raced down her spine, and her heart stuttered. It had been too long, not long enough. “No.”

She wouldn’t turn around, wouldn’t meet those mesmerizing eyes.

His hands settled on her bare arms, and she nearly jumped. As the work-roughened hands moved over her skin, her stomach started a little dance of its own.

“I’m working, Cole.”

“Nothin’ needs doin’ right now. Come on, sugar.”

Knowing she shouldn’t, she turned to face him. Mistake. She always had found him irresistible, and that hadn’t changed. He’d perfected that slow Southern drawl, had the sound of a true gentleman. But the twinkle in his eyes gave him away. Revealed the bad boy tucked not far below the surface.

Right now, dressed in a dark suit and tie, the man looked like every woman’s dream. He appeared smooth and debonair, but beneath lay the wild.

He took her hand, and, God forgive her, she followed him, weak-kneed onto the portable dance floor, telling herself she didn’t want to, that she only did it to keep peace. Knowing she lied.

A full moon shone overhead and candlelight flickered. When he drew her into his arms and pulled her close, she sighed. One hand held hers, the other settled south of her waist.

“You smell good, Jenni Beth. You always do.”

His voice, low and husky, sent goosebumps racing up and down her arms. Despite herself, she rested her head against his chest, seduced by the strong, steady beat of his heart, the illusion he could make everything and anything all right.

 

Lynnette Austin photoAuthor Bio

The luxury of staying home when the weather turns nasty, of working in PJs and bare feet, and the fact that daydreaming is not only permissible but encouraged, are a few of the reasons middle school teacher Lynnette Austin gave up the classroom to write full-time. Lynnette grew up in Pennsylvania’s Alleghany Mountains, moved to Upstate New York, then to the Rockies in Wyoming. Presently she and her husband divide their time between Southwest Florida’s beaches and Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. A finalist in RWA’s Golden Heart Contest, PASIC’s Book of Your Heart Contest, and Georgia Romance Writers’ Maggie Contest, she’s published five books as Lynnette Hallberg. She’s currently writing as Lynnette Austin. Having grown up in a small town, that’s where her heart takes her—to those quirky small towns where everybody knows everybody…and all their business, for better or worse.

Learn more about Lynette here:  WebsiteFacebookTwitterPinterestGoodreads

 

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Spotlight Feature of Cynthia Eden’s Shattered

Shattered Release Day Blitz Banner

*****

Shattered

LOST Series, book #3

Blurb:
In New York Times bestselling author Cynthia Eden’s latest novel featuring the Last Option Search Team (LOST), one agent is forced to face her past as she uncovers secrets about the man who may be the key to her future.
Criminal psychologist Dr. Sarah Jacobs is all too familiar with the kind of bad boys who belong behind bars. But the dark, dangerous man she meets in the New Orleans underworld is a new kind of ruthless, and all too irresistible.
Jax Fontaine doesn’t claim to be a good guy, but he’s loyal to his own code and brutally honest about what he wants. He and Sarah may be worlds apart, but when they’re skin to skin, nothing matters but the heat between them.
And when a deranged killer targets Sarah, Jax will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
 Available for purchase at
                  
 *****
 Excerpt

 

His blue gaze sharpened on her. “Are you afraid of me?”

“Aren’t most people?” she dodged. Most smart people?

“Yes, but they have a reason to fear me.” His knuckles fell away from her. “You don’t. I wouldn’t ever hurt you.”

Right. Like she was just supposed to take him at his word. Once Jax had been drawn into LOST’s investigation, Sarah had made it a top priority to learn as much about him as she could. Only it turned out that there wasn’t a whole lot to discover. Most of his past was cloaked, little more than rumors and smoke. Sure, she’d seen his criminal record, but that had been all juvie stuff. The guy had been good at covering his tracks once he’d become legal.

He’d been on the streets since he was a teenager. Somehow, he’d clawed his way—quite literally—out of the gutter and become a force to be reckoned with in the area. He owned several businesses and had connections that stretched across the county. And the local police were sure that he was a criminal. They just hadn’t been able to pin any serious crimes on him.

It’s hard because he has money and power. And he’s smart. She could see the intelligence in his eyes. The cunning. He won’t make mistakes easily.

“I love it when your mind starts spinning,” he murmured, his voice a deep rumble. “Tell me, Dr. Jacobs, are you profiling me right now?”

Her hands lifted and she shoved against his chest. He backed up, not because she’d been uber strong and knocked him back, but because … dammit, she suspected he moved for her.

To make her feel in control.

But he likes power.

And, hell, she was profiling him. “I don’t understand the point of this little meeting. Stopping a woman in the elevator is hardly an appropriate pick-up routine—”

He laughed. His laughter actually sounded real. Warm and rough, and it rolled right over her.

“How is anything about us appropriate?” Jax asked. That man’s voice—so deep and rumbly—it was like pure sex. She was pretty sure, like one hundred percent so, that he normally had women tossing their panties at him on sight.

She wasn’t one of those women. Or, rather, she was trying not to be one of those women.

 

 

The Lost Series Now Available

 (Book #1)
Available for purchase at
               

 

(Book #2)

Available for purchase at
               

 



About the Author: 
USA Today Best-selling author Cynthia Eden has written over twenty-five novels and novellas. She was named as a 2013 RITA® finalist for her paranormal romance, ANGEL IN CHAINS, and, in 2011, Cynthia Eden was a RITA finalist for her romantic suspense, DEADLY FEAR.
Cynthia is a southern girl who loves horror movies, chocolate, and happy endings.  She has always wanted to write (don’t most authors say that?), and particularly enjoys creating stories about monsters–vampires, werewolves, and even the real-life monsters that populate her romantic suspense stories.
 
Cynthia’s foreign sales for her books include translations to Japan, Germany, Thailand, Greece, and Brazil.
(Back in the day…) Cynthia graduated summa cum laude from the University of South Alabama where she studied Sociology (because people interest her) and Communication (because she likes to write about said people).  Cynthia has worked as a college admissions counselor, a teacher, and as an editor. But now, Cynthia is thrilled to be spending her days making up stories.
You can find Cynthia here:             

 

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