Tag: romance

New release! Dare to Hope by Madison Michael

Dare to Hope
Double Dare Romance Series (Book 1)
By Madison Michael
 
♥♥GiveAway♥♥
Maddy is offering a few great prizes. Please use the Rafflecopter below to enter! You may enter each day for a chance to win so be sure to follow along with us on the New Release Tour.
 

About Dare to Hope: 

She’s Betting on Love and the Stakes are High

 The “Crazy Eights,” eight women who have been friends for 30 years, have a powerful connection yet rarely see each other. At a pivotal time in their lives, they create a way to remedy this predicament, an audacious dare contrived to bring them together for weddings – each participant must get married within twelve months. The stakes are high. Win the bet and lose your heart; or lose the bet and perform a personally mortifying task.

 In the first of their stories, we meet Eliana, beautiful and brilliant, but starting over, focused on her career, not on some foolhardy dare. Longing for a family but recently divorced and on her own, Eliana sets her sights on a new job, a new home and accepting her single, childless status. Independent and determined, she has no idea that in less than six months she will both win and lose her heart’s desire.

 Jeremy Klein, genius engineer and inventor, is also making life changes. He’s sold his startup to a major medical device company, becoming President and CEO, and a billionaire before he is forty. Although he’s gun-shy about the dating game, Jeremy knows it’s time to apply his smarts, sex appeal and new-found success to finding true love.

 When Eliana meets Jeremy, they bond quickly. The couple has so much in common and a chemistry that sizzles. Winning Eliana feels like a fantasy come true to Jeremy. Their attraction is immediate and electrifying, and a one-night stand morphs into planning a future. But plans change. On track to wedded bliss, baby and all, Jeremy and Eliana are derailed by accusations that threaten their relationship, Eliana’s career and Jeremy’s future as CEO.

 Spies, lies, allegations and misunderstandings abound, threatening to destroy their happiness. That is, until those “Crazy Eights” get involved, scheming and manipulating to win Eliana her happily ever after. Can a group of determined friends help Eliana and Jeremy hold onto love?

 In the tradition of The Beguiling Bachelor Series, Madison Michael creates a romance series about independent and sassy women, sexy and successful men, true love, and lasting friendships.

 Genre: Steamy Contemporary Romance

 Buy Links:

An Excerpt from Dare to Hope:

His grin was devastating up close – wide and welcoming, with a hint of naughtiness and the promise of shared pleasures. But it was his eyes, deep coffee brown and fringed with long dark lashes that were his best feature; piercing, intelligent and inquisitive eyes, trained on her.
Please, God, Eliana prayed quickly, do not let this man be the new sales manager. It would be lamentable if she had to keep him at arm’s length. He was the first man Eliana had felt drawn to since Nico. If she was honest with herself, he was the first man she had ever felt this attracted to so immediately. It was enough to make her believe in love at first sight or fate.
“Hi,” he stepped closer, ignoring the empty stool beside her to halt just inside her personal space. Usually, Eliana would have reflexively backed up, but she savored his closeness, the power emanating from his presence. Even in this stuffy bar, he smelled good – fresh, like soap and good whiskey. And up close, his eyes were more magical – a hint of gold dancing in their depths.
“Hi,” she responded on a breath, letting the single word hang there for a moment before adding “You aren’t in sales, are you?”
“Nope.” If he thought it was a strange conversation starter, he kept it to himself. “Engineering and design, although I have dabbled in sales. I could be in sales for you,” he offered in a voice smooth as brandy, redolent with sexual promise and a hint of curiosity. She laughed at his offer. “Are you in sales?”
“Yes, I am. I was thinking of what a crime it would be if you turned out to be my new boss. I’m meeting him tomorrow.”
“Jeremy,” he responded, extending his hand to shake hers. “Not in sales. Is your boss named Jeremy?”
“Thankfully, not.” Eliana extended her hand, savoring the moment as Jeremy wrapped his long fingers around hers. She noticed there was no wedding band as she admired the strength and length of his fingers, the fine hairs on the back of his hand, and his grip – warm and dry. His skin was soft over fine bone and healthy muscle. Everything about him captivated her. “Eliana.”
Jeremy seemed in no hurry to release her hand, but after several beats too long for politeness, Eliana pulled hers from his. “Is this seat taken?” he asked, already sitting down, not thinking twice about it. “Or perhaps that table against the wall? I am anxious to learn why you don’t know who you work with, Eliana.”
Eliana laughed and watched as Jeremy’s breath stopped. His every emotion was transparent, especially the desire flaming in his eyes right now. A passion she reciprocated. Wholeheartedly. She couldn’t remember such an instantaneous attraction. But with Jeremy, she felt electricity and lust move through her entire body, just from the touch of his hand and the sound of her name spoken in his rich baritone.
“Eliana,” he rolled the word around his mouth as if tasting a fine wine. “What a lovely name.” Eliana panties dampened. He was just saying words, but their underlying promise was undeniable. She wanted to be alone with him. She wanted to be naked with him. And all she knew was his first name.
Eliana nodded toward the table, questioning her sanity. She was sure about what this man wanted, but after only minutes, her body governed her head. Jeremy spoke briefly with the bartender, passed him a fifty like it was a single, and motioned for her to lead the way to the empty table. Before they had settled in their chairs, both had fresh drinks. Earlier, the bartender had responded to her beauty with decent service and half-hearted flirting, but he reacted with alacrity to the big tip.
“So, spill,” Jeremy directed, leaning forward on his elbows and putting his mouth dangerously close to hers. Just a few inches, Eliana imagined, and they could be kissing. “I am dying to hear your story. I want to know absolutely everything about you.” The way he lingered on the word ‘everything’ made Eliana wetter still. Oh man, she was in way over her head.
 ~♥~♥~♥~♥~
 

Meet Madison Michael:

Madison Michael loves to binge news, movies, books, Oreos and romance – reading romance novels, writing romantic stories, watching Rom-Coms over and over. Maddy has spent her self-isolation fretting about the health of her friends and neighbors and catching up on TV programs from ten years ago. Hunkered down with her cat, Gracie, and a Zoom life-line to the world, she is wondering how people date and social distance, how much junk food she can consume in a day and why Gracie only wants to play when Maddy needs to work.

 Oh, and Madison is also hard at work on the rest of the Double Dare Romance series. Watch for more of the series in Autumn and Winter, 2020.

Madison’s Social Links:

All Caught up on Madison’s Books?
The Beguiling Bachelor Series – 
Four Successful, Sexy Men meet their matches – and how!
The B&B Billionaire Books – Second Chance at Love stories set in small town America
Standalone Stories – from Sweet Time Travel to Sexy May-September Romance
(available only when you sign up to be an Insider)

New! Pre-order Dare to Hope by Madison Michael

Dare to Hope
Double Dare Romance Series (Book 1)
By Madison Michael
 
♥♥GiveAway♥♥
Maddy is offering a few lucky readers the chance to win an ebook of Dare to Hope from ibooks or another ebook format. Please use the Rafflecopter below to enter! You may enter each day for a chance to win so be sure to follow along with us on the Pre-Order Tour.
 
♥♥Pre-Order Details ♥♥
 
Dare to Hope is now available for Pre-Order on B&N, Apple Books or Kobo. After it’s release it will only be available on Amazon, so Hurry! Go Pre-Order your copy if you prefer these formats for reading.

About Dare to Hope: 

She’s Betting on Love and the Stakes are High

 The “Crazy Eights,” eight women who have been friends for 30 years, have a powerful connection yet rarely see each other. At a pivotal time in their lives, they create a way to remedy this predicament, an audacious dare contrived to bring them together for weddings – each participant must get married within twelve months. The stakes are high. Win the bet and lose your heart; or lose the bet and perform a personally mortifying task.

 In the first of their stories, we meet Eliana, beautiful and brilliant, but starting over, focused on her career, not on some foolhardy dare. Longing for a family but recently divorced and on her own, Eliana sets her sights on a new job, a new home and accepting her single, childless status. Independent and determined, she has no idea that in less than six months she will both win and lose her heart’s desire.

 Jeremy Klein, genius engineer and inventor, is also making life changes. He’s sold his startup to a major medical device company, becoming President and CEO, and a billionaire before he is forty. Although he’s gun-shy about the dating game, Jeremy knows it’s time to apply his smarts, sex appeal and new-found success to finding true love.

 When Eliana meets Jeremy, they bond quickly. The couple has so much in common and a chemistry that sizzles. Winning Eliana feels like a fantasy come true to Jeremy. Their attraction is immediate and electrifying, and a one-night stand morphs into planning a future. But plans change. On track to wedded bliss, baby and all, Jeremy and Eliana are derailed by accusations that threaten their relationship, Eliana’s career and Jeremy’s future as CEO.

 Spies, lies, allegations and misunderstandings abound, threatening to destroy their happiness. That is, until those “Crazy Eights” get involved, scheming and manipulating to win Eliana her happily ever after. Can a group of determined friends help Eliana and Jeremy hold onto love?

 In the tradition of The Beguiling Bachelor Series, Madison Michael creates a romance series about independent and sassy women, sexy and successful men, true love, and lasting friendships.

 Genre: Steamy Contemporary Romance

 Buy Links:


 ~♥~♥~♥~♥~

An Excerpt from Dare to Hope:

His grin was devastating up close – wide and welcoming, with a hint of naughtiness and the promise of shared pleasures. But it was his eyes, deep coffee brown and fringed with long dark lashes that were his best feature; piercing, intelligent and inquisitive eyes, trained on her.
Please, God, Eliana prayed quickly, do not let this man be the new sales manager. It would be lamentable if she had to keep him at arm’s length. He was the first man Eliana had felt drawn to since Nico. If she was honest with herself, he was the first man she had ever felt this attracted to so immediately. It was enough to make her believe in love at first sight or fate.
“Hi,” he stepped closer, ignoring the empty stool beside her to halt just inside her personal space. Usually, Eliana would have reflexively backed up, but she savored his closeness, the power emanating from his presence. Even in this stuffy bar, he smelled good – fresh, like soap and good whiskey. And up close, his eyes were more magical – a hint of gold dancing in their depths.
“Hi,” she responded on a breath, letting the single word hang there for a moment before adding “You aren’t in sales, are you?”
“Nope.” If he thought it was a strange conversation starter, he kept it to himself. “Engineering and design, although I have dabbled in sales. I could be in sales for you,” he offered in a voice smooth as brandy, redolent with sexual promise and a hint of curiosity. She laughed at his offer. “Are you in sales?”
“Yes, I am. I was thinking of what a crime it would be if you turned out to be my new boss. I’m meeting him tomorrow.”
“Jeremy,” he responded, extending his hand to shake hers. “Not in sales. Is your boss named Jeremy?”
“Thankfully, not.” Eliana extended her hand, savoring the moment as Jeremy wrapped his long fingers around hers. She noticed there was no wedding band as she admired the strength and length of his fingers, the fine hairs on the back of his hand, and his grip – warm and dry. His skin was soft over fine bone and healthy muscle. Everything about him captivated her. “Eliana.”
Jeremy seemed in no hurry to release her hand, but after several beats too long for politeness, Eliana pulled hers from his. “Is this seat taken?” he asked, already sitting down, not thinking twice about it. “Or perhaps that table against the wall? I am anxious to learn why you don’t know who you work with, Eliana.”
Eliana laughed and watched as Jeremy’s breath stopped. His every emotion was transparent, especially the desire flaming in his eyes right now. A passion she reciprocated. Wholeheartedly. She couldn’t remember such an instantaneous attraction. But with Jeremy, she felt electricity and lust move through her entire body, just from the touch of his hand and the sound of her name spoken in his rich baritone.
“Eliana,” he rolled the word around his mouth as if tasting a fine wine. “What a lovely name.” Eliana panties dampened. He was just saying words, but their underlying promise was undeniable. She wanted to be alone with him. She wanted to be naked with him. And all she knew was his first name.
Eliana nodded toward the table, questioning her sanity. She was sure about what this man wanted, but after only minutes, her body governed her head. Jeremy spoke briefly with the bartender, passed him a fifty like it was a single, and motioned for her to lead the way to the empty table. Before they had settled in their chairs, both had fresh drinks. Earlier, the bartender had responded to her beauty with decent service and half-hearted flirting, but he reacted with alacrity to the big tip.
“So, spill,” Jeremy directed, leaning forward on his elbows and putting his mouth dangerously close to hers. Just a few inches, Eliana imagined, and they could be kissing. “I am dying to hear your story. I want to know absolutely everything about you.” The way he lingered on the word ‘everything’ made Eliana wetter still. Oh man, she was in way over her head.
 ~♥~♥~♥~♥~
 

Meet Madison Michael:

Madison Michael loves to binge news, movies, books, Oreos and romance – reading romance novels, writing romantic stories, watching Rom-Coms over and over. Maddy has spent her self-isolation fretting about the health of her friends and neighbors and catching up on TV programs from ten years ago. Hunkered down with her cat, Gracie, and a Zoom life-line to the world, she is wondering how people date and social distance, how much junk food she can consume in a day and why Gracie only wants to play when Maddy needs to work.

 Oh, and Madison is also hard at work on the rest of the Double Dare Romance series. Watch for more of the series in Autumn and Winter, 2020.

Madison’s Social Links:

All Caught up on Madison’s Books?

The Beguiling Bachelor Series – 
Four Successful, Sexy Men meet their matches – and how!
The B&B Billionaire Books – Second Chance at Love stories set in small town America
Standalone Stories – from Sweet Time Travel to Sexy May-September Romance
(available only when you sign up to be an Insider)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

New! Second chances–for people and pets! Gayle Irwin

Finding Love at Compassion Ranch by Gayle IrwinShe crouches then pounces upon the enticing mouse like her cousin the bobcat. His tail swishes as he stares and then stalks the feather on the floor like his larger brother the tiger. Domestic cats, like their wild relatives, enjoy the hunt and chase. They entertain their human companions, bringing smiles and laughter. Their purrs soothe stress, and their company delights days.

June is Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month, and in my recently-released book, Finding Love at Compassion Ranch, my main character, Erin, adopts two cats. This clean, contemporary romance is a second-chance story, for the human couple and for the animals featured in the book. Here’s an taste:

That afternoon, as Erin played with the cats, she focused again on the two yellow tabby brothers, Ricky and Rocket. The more she engaged with them, the more certain she was that her daughter would enjoy these kitties. She watched Rocket refocus his attention on a sunbeam dancing across the nearby wall. She laughed as the tabby leaped, as if trying to catch the light. Another sunray on the floor captured his interest, and the cat began zooming around the room. With her cell phone, Erin snapped several pictures of Ricky playing with a catnip mouse and others of Rocket pouncing on rays of sunlight. A few moments later she texted the photos to Brittany along with this message: “I think I’ve found the purr-fect cats for you! Two brothers, about two years old. Playful, fun, and friendly. We already know they get along, they are healthy, and they like people. What do you think? Want me to adopt them for you?”

As she waved a feather toy in front of the tabbies’ faces, Brittany responded with a text: “YES! I already love them. Do they get along with Winston?”

Erin responded, “I’ll plan a sleep-over to find out. Potential adopters can do that here, just like at Best Friends Animal Society.”

“Super!” came Brittany’s response. “Let me know how everyone does.”

Two cats share my house. I adopted them when they were 10 weeks old; they will be 15 years old in August. Murphy and Bailey are sisters, although to look at them you couldn’t think so. Murphy is a long-haired black and white (often called ‘tuxedo’), and Bailey is a short-haired tortoiseshell (black, orange, and white). Their mother was a medium-haired, cream-colored Persian-looking cat. Only two of the six in the litter looked alike, and they were black and gray tabby cats. I’ve been a cat person since I was a child. My first was a calico who followed me home after school when I was nine years old. I named her Precious and she was my companion for more than 10 years.

Buy links:
Amazon ebook
Amazon print
Barnes and Noble
Kobo

Bailey and Murphy catsI weave pet rescue and adoption into my romance stories because that topic is something I’m passionate about. The second book in the series, Finding Love at Compassion Ranch, sees my main character, Erin, volunteering at Compassion Ranch, a sanctuary for former research animals. The fictional sanctuary is based on a real facility called Kindness Ranch. In the book, Erin reconnects with a man she knew in high school when she shows up to volunteer. Both she and Mike, my primary male character, have lost their spouses. Sparks ignite, especially after Erin helps Mike save the life of an ewe and her lamb. However, Erin wonders if she gives her heart to Mike, will she be betraying her late husband and her two grown children?

Pick up your copy of Finding Love at Compassion Ranch, available as an e-book through Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Amazon, and available in print format through Amazon. You can also obtain my first book in this Pet Rescue Romance series, Rescue Road, in which the character of Erin is introduced, through the same outlets.

I encourage you to support your local animal shelter, humane society, or pet rescue organization. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), each year nearly 3.2 million cats and kittens enter animal shelters and humane societies across the United States. Sadly,Rescue cats more than 850,000 are euthanized due to illness, owners not claiming their lost/stray animals, and overcrowding due to lack of adoptions and reclaims. Whether through adoption, fostering, donations of supplies or money, or volunteering, these groups need our help to help the animals they serve.

When people purchase my books, I donate a percentage of sales to pet rescue organizations. I also volunteer for a few groups. In fact, the two cats in my story, Ricky and Rocket, are based on two cats I met at a rescue. Their picture is above.

Happy reading!

Blurb:

A ranch like no other …

Erin Christiansen is still adjusting to life as a widow. She seeks additional healing by volunteering at Compassion Ranch, a sanctuary for former research animals. Upon arrival at the majestic and unique northwestern Wyoming ranch, she meets Mike, a man she knew in high school, whose compassion for animals and people might be the balm Erin needs.

Retired veterinarian Mike Jacobs is no stranger to loss. Five years after the accidental death of his wife, he now serves as ranch manager of Compassion Ranch. He not only fixes fence and provides tours, but he applies his veterinary skills and his heart for animals to his work. Upon recognizing Erin from high school, he can barely believe his first love will spend a few weeks at the sanctuary.

Can Erin and Mike span the years since they have seen each other or do they, like many of the rescued animals, have wounds that run too deep to trust and love again?

Yellowstone Lake
Much of the story takes place here, at Yellowstone Lake

Excerpt:

That evening before sunset, Mike secured wire to a wooden post a few feet from the barn. More fencing to his left helped create a new corral, the project he’d been working on all day. He didn’t hear Erin walk up until she called out, “Hi, there, busy guy!”

He stopped his work and looked at her. Her large smile brought one to his face.

“Hi, yourself.”

Mike noticed Winston beside her. He squatted down and said, “Hey there, fella. How are you and those cats doing?”

Winston, his tail wagging, sauntered up to Mike, and the ranch manager patted the little dog’s head.

“They’ve done very well,” Erin responded as she walked closer. “A few hisses and growls by the cats at first, but with Winston’s gentle, sweet personality, the Ricky and Rocket adjusted pretty quickly. Winston learned about cats while at Rhiann’s sanctuary, so he knows not to push the limit.

They all took about a thirty-minute nap on the couch before supper. I think Brittany’s going to be quite happy with the boys.”

As Mike drew to his full six-foot-one height, he noticed Erin held a cloth bag in her hand.

“You don’t have the cats in there, do you?” he asked in a teasing voice as he pointed to the sack.

She laughed slightly and held up the bag. “I think you’d hear a lot of fussing. No, silly. I brought your supper. I’ve been hearing the pounding of nails all afternoon and saw you putting those posts in the ground earlier. I figured you could use a break.”

She opened the container, which held two sandwiches, a small bag of potato chips, and a covered glass pitcher of lemonade. Her kindness startled him. Not that Erin wasn’t thoughtful, but in the midst of her own busy day, settling in two cats, the thought that she would notice he hadn’t taken a break in several hours touched his heart.

“Thank you, Erin. I appreciate your thoughtfulness,” he said in a sincere voice.

She smiled and handed Mike the bag. He reached for the lemonade first and poured a cup from the small thermos. After consuming the tart liquid, he said, “Ah! That hits the spot.” He smiled. “I knew you were a good woman, Erin, I just didn’t realize how much of an angel until now.”

Author Bio:

Gayle IrwinGayle M. Irwin is an award-winning author and freelance writer, being recognized by Wyoming Writers, Inc., and the Wyoming Press Association for several of her works. She is a contributor to seven Chicken Soup for the Soul books and the author of many inspirational pet books and stories for both children and adults. Her first novel, a clean, contemporary pet rescue romance titled Rescue Road, released November 8, 2019; the second book in that series she calls Pet Rescue Romance is titled Finding Love at Compassion Ranch – the book released in May 2020. Gayle subtly weaves important life lessons within the lines and pages of her stories, including the importance of pet rescue and adoption. An animal advocate, she volunteers for various dog rescue and humane society organizations and donates a percentage of all book sales to such groups. Gayle resides in Wyoming with her husband and their adopted animals. Learn more about the author, her writing endeavors, including a weekly blog, and her pets, and receive free stories and resources by visiting her website: www.gaylemirwinauthor.com.

Naughty teacher! #MFRWHooks

Only a Good Man Will DoThis is a blog hop. Be sure to check the link at the bottom to see posts from other authors!
Blurb:
Seriously ambitious man seeks woman to encourage his goals, support his (hopeful) position as Headmaster of Westover Academy, and be purer than Caesar’s wife. Good luck with that!

Daniel Goodman is a man on a mission. He aims to become headmaster of Westover Academy. For that he needs a particular, special woman to help him set high standards. Into his cut and dried life of moral and upright behavior, comes Eve Star, formerly one of Europe’s foremost exotic dancers. Her life is anything but cut and dried, black and white. Daniel is drawn to her like a kid to chocolate. Nothing good can come of this attraction. Or can it? He is after all, a good man.

Buy link:
Amazon KU: https://amzn.to/2q7ovi4

MFRW Book Hooks

Excerpt:
Daniel stood. “Shall we talk in the kitchen?” The woman sighed, but led the way.

“I feel so awful for that boy,” she started, lifting the coffee pot and raising her brows at Daniel.

“No, thanks.” Daniel leaned against the counter and stared at the woman. With only the light over the stove casting a glow, her hair shone like an auburn halo. Her head bowed to blow on the hot liquid in her cup. Full, round breasts rose and fell with each breath, tempting him to touch. Her narrow waist and curvy hips were pure sin and there wasn’t anything he wanted to do more than press her against him and explore every curve. He’d never get the chance, considering how tangled she was with Michael Haynes and The Bare Moose.

“Feeling awful. Is that how you happened to put both him and yourself at risk by becoming involved with him?”

Her head snapped up, and eyes he’d fantasized glazed with lust a brief moment ago now flared with fire. “We’re not involved. He said it, we’re friends. My—” she stopped, looked away, took a breath, looked back, “—my son, Timmy, and I were in the park by the river one Sunday last June. I was painting. Michael stopped to talk. We saw him several times in the park after that. I didn’t see any harm.”

“Didn’t see any harm? The boy’s infatuated with you, couldn’t you tell? Besides, The Bare Moose is a long way from the river.” Fifteen miles from the park, light years from Westover Academy.

She lifted one shoulder and let it drop. “One Sunday I took a picnic and Michael joined us. He always seemed so alone. When he asked if I knew how to cook pot roast and I said of course, he looked … I don’t know, wistful. So I asked if his parents would mind if he came to my house for supper the following week, and he assured me they wouldn’t. I didn’t think it was all that wrong. Until the school year started, I didn’t know he attended Westover and he hasn’t visited here since then. He’s never been inside the tavern, and I certainly don’t give him alcohol.” Her eyes flashed again. “I promise you, we don’t engage in anything racier than passing the mashed potatoes or cutting hair.”

Daniel frowned. “Cutting hair?”

“Yes. I thought he looked a little shaggy one day, so I cut his hair. Look, he plays with Timmy and tells me jokes and stories. I teach him art. We’re company for each other. There’s nothing more to it.”

Daniel hadn’t gotten past Eve’s cutting Michael’s hair. He could feel her fingers raking through his own hair, skimming his scalp, skating the tips of his ears. His cock rose, hard and throbbing, not caring that he and Eve were strangers and that impressionable children were mere feet away.

“So, you were a dancer?” She blushed, and the certainty of what caused the blush made his dick ache even more. He’d bet the tassels on his mom’s old pasties that he knew exactly what kind of “dancer” Eve Star was.

Evening Star. He could picture what her costume looked like. Battery-powered star headdress to illuminate her path to the center pole, silver lamé cape sailing behind like the tail of a comet, shimmering bra, panties and high, high heels that showed off her sexy-as-hell legs. He’d bet she made every man in the room salivate and want to become an astronomer so they could examine her heavenly body up close. Just like Daniel wanted to do right then. The kitchen counter was just the right height to…

He shook his head to clear the image of taking her on her spotless kitchen counter.

“Dancing’s behind me. I run the tavern now.”

At least she can do that with her clothes on.

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New! Don’t Forget the Dog: Linda O’Connor

I’m so excited to celebrate my latest release!

DOn't Forget the Dog by Linda O'Connor

Don’t Forget the Dog (Dr. Brogan Corkie Matchmaking Doctor, Book 2)
Medical Romantic Comedy
Sweet Romance

Read about the first in Linda’s series, Don’t Drop the Baby!

Blurb:
Dr. Brogan Corkie is happily semi-retired from medicine and now has time for other hobbies. Her passion for food is second only to her skill at matchmaking!

Blaine McKinnon, owner and executive chef of an upscale restaurant in Mapleton, has an adorable Old English sheepdog named Tacos. Brogan is roped into dog-sitting Tacos at Blaine’s house. The upside is the spectacular kitchen at her disposal.

Dr. Sabrina Langfield, a newly minted doctor, is in a bind when her mom, Rue, falls and fractures her wrist. Brogan offers to help and does double-duty looking after Tacos and Rue.

Blaine and Sabrina were high school sweethearts but parted ways when Blaine pushed Sabrina to pursue a career. Sabrina hasn’t seen him since, but Rue is a huge fan and frequents his restaurant. Rue’s biggest regret is her part in Sabrina and Blaine’s break-up, and with Brogan’s help, she’s determined to get them back together. It might not be that easy – Sabrina is wary of Tacos and, more pressing, she’s decided to move a four-hour flight away to do five more years of training in emergency medicine.

Will meddlesome matchmaking, Blaine’s persuasiveness, and – don’t forget the dog – Tacos’ sweet nature be enough to convince Sabrina to stay?

Excerpt:
Rue stepped inside. She brushed a hand down Blaine’s arm and then opened her arms for a hug. “You’re so sweet to welcome me into your home.” She squeezed him tight with her left arm. Her casted arm fell to her side.

“Not even a question.” Blaine closed his eyes briefly as Rue held him. “I was sorry to hear about your accident.”

“A bit of a busted wing, but no worries, I’ll fly again.” Tacos nudged against them and Rue broke contact. She held out her hand for Tacos to sniff and then rubbed him behind the ears. “Look how you’ve grown, Tacos. Do you remember me? Still so cute.” She bent and put her face in Tacos’s fur when Tacos tried to lick her.

Blaine turned to Sabrina. “Are you going to hover on the doorstep or come inside? You’re letting all the heat out.”

Sabrina stamped her feet to knock the snow off her brown suede boots and then stepped inside and shut the door, avoiding eye contact with him. She brushed at the snow on her tailored wool coat.

Blaine watched her with a half smile on his face. “Looks like you missed a snowflake.”

Sabrina’s jaw clenched. She held out a bag. “My mom’s things.”

He raised an eyebrow. Rue reached around him and took the bag. “Thanks heaps, dear.”

Tacos skipped over to sniff Sabrina.

Sabrina took a step back to avoid him. “Don’t forget to take your pain pills regularly today, Mom. Don’t wait for the pain to become intolerable. And get some rest.”

Blaine pulled Tacos away from Sabrina and interjected. “Rue, have you met Brogan Corkie? Brogan, Rue Langfield.”

Brogan stepped forward. “Hello. I’m pleased to meet you.”

“Sorry, I should have introduced you,” Sabrina mumbled. She loosened the belt and undid the top buttons of her coat. Underneath she wore a crisp white blouse and a navy blue pencil skirt.

Rue held out her hand to shake and then smiled crookedly and waved it instead. “I’m delighted to meet you, too. Sabrina told me that you work with her at the clinic.”

Blaine’s head swivelled between them. “Is that so?”

Brogan smiled. “I do, or rather I did. I’m semi-retired now, so I’m not there as often.” She turned back to Rue. “My new passion is cooking, and I’m hoping you like to eat.”

Rue removed her knitted wrap and matching cap and tossed them on a chair. The loose-fitting caftan she had on flowed to her ankles and covered her cast in a tie-dye rainbow of colours. Her dark hair, with wisps of grey, fell in a long braid down her back. “I love to eat. We should get along famously.”

Brogan smiled. “Have you seen Blaine’s kitchen? It’s to die for.”

“Show me.” Rue put her arm around Brogan’s waist as they walked down the hall. Tacos trotted happily beside them. “You’re not one of those New Age, plant-based, vegan, health food nuts, are you?” Rue asked as they moved out of earshot.

Sabrina didn’t catch Brogan’s answer, but she winced when their laughter filled the air.

Blaine leaned against the wall. “I take it you’re still a plant-based, vegan, health food nut.”

Sabrina raised her chin. “There’s nothing wrong with choosing foods wisely to optimize health, despite what my mother thinks – or you, for that matter.”

He stepped closer and brushed at the snow melting on her neat ponytail. He could smell the perfume she wore. It took him back eleven years, and he almost lost his train of thought. “Eating for pleasure is just as important.”
Sabrina stiffened at his touch. Her back was ramrod straight. “Proper nutrition gives you the energy to enjoy what gives you pleasure.”

Her message and her body language read prim and proper, but her husky voice was pure sex. His body responded, and he leaned closer. “What gives you pleasure these days?”

She stopped him with a pointed finger jabbed into his chest and raised her chin. “Shouldn’t the question be who is giving me pleasure?”

Blaine jerked back, her words stopping him more effectively than a slap. He’d been fairly confident she hadn’t been dating anyone. He had a front seat window to the ticker tape of her life through Sabrina’s mom, who was a regular at Fire and Ice. There hadn’t even been a whisper of Sabrina dating, and even though two people couldn’t be any more different, Sabrina and her mom were still tight. There was no way Mrs. L wouldn’t know. He glanced at Sabrina’s left hand. No ring. She was baiting him, but he couldn’t deny the relief that coursed through him. He narrowed his eyes at her sublime expression and had to ask. “Who is giving you pleasure?”

Sabrina smiled slowly, her emerald eyes silently mocking him. “I would say that’s none of your business.”

She buttoned her coat. “I’ll pick my mom up after work at six.” She opened the door. “See ya.” She pulled the door shut behind her.

Blaine stood in the foyer and, with a shake of his head, smiled reluctantly. Round one to Sabrina. She was still sassy, sexy, and smart – exactly why he loved her. Game on.

Buy link:
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Linda:
Linda O'ConnorAward-winning author Linda O’Connor started writing romantic comedies when she needed a creative outlet other than subtly rearranging the displays at a local home décor store. Her books have enjoyed bestseller status. When not writing, she’s a physician at an Urgent Care Clinic. She shares her medical knowledge in fast-paced, well-written, sexy romances – with an unexpected twist. Her favourite prescription to write? Laugh every day. Love every minute.

Website https://www.lindaoconnor.net
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Unsuitable for a Lord–but very suitable for us! Cathleen Ross

An Unsuitable Lady for a Lord by Cathleen Ross

An Unsuitable Lady for a Lord
Series: Scottish Lords and Ladies Series
Author: Cathleen Ross
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Release date: 13 April 2020
Genre: Regency
Pages: 192  52,000 words

Blurb:
Lord Aaron Lyle has one hell of a choice: a bankrupt dukedom, or marriage to some simpering society miss so his spendthrift father can get his hands on her huge dowry. He won’t do it. He has a reputation to maintain, and besides, he’d rather run naked through the streets of London than marry anyone at all. Surely, there must be a third option.

Then Lady Crystal Wilding walks into his life, a bluestocking, full of subversive thoughts, who hates the notion of marriage even more than he does. He is intrigued…and suddenly he has an idea. He invites the totally unsuitable lady home on the pretext of presenting her as a possible match…but in truth, Aaron has something far more pleasurable in mind. For her part, Lady Crystal has her own reasons for going along with his harebrained scheme.

Imagine their shock when his highly proper family loves her and starts planning the wedding. Good lord. Now what?

Excerpt: (Heat Rating) Medium

Buy links:
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Excerpt:
Edinburgh, 1811 Friday evening

When the wild Scottish wind swept Lady Crystal Wilding’s straw bonnet from her head, she didn’t expect it to fly, complete with ostrich feathers, right into the hands of the most compelling gentleman she’d ever seen.

He leaped with masculine grace, snatched the offending black hat from the air, and, on seeing its owner, bowed deeply. His thick, dark hair and perfectly trimmed sideburns had not been mussed by the leap, and the first thing she noticed was the amusement in his midnight blue eyes. He was exquisitely attired in a double-breasted black tailcoat, tan breeches, and black leather shoes. His cream silk cravat was tied superbly in a complicated pattern only a highly paid servant could manage. A hint of his brocade waistcoat showed under his well-tailored tailcoat.

“Lord Lyle at your service, Miss…”

“Lady Crystal Wilding.”

She strode a few feet over to him, bobbed a curtsy, and caught his compelling blue-eyed gaze for a second too long. She usually regarded powerful lords with some contempt… but something about this man grabbed her attention and wouldn’t let go.

She deliberately shook it off. She really needed to refocus and not allow herself to be distracted. “Thank you for saving this miscreant of a hat, my lord. I dinnae ken how it came loose.”

He fluffed the elaborate plumed creation before placing it in her hands and giving her a wicked smile. “Perhaps it was trying to return to its former avian owner.”

A ripple of laughter left her lips, and he joined her, his stern, noble face softening with enjoyment. Up close, he smelled of fine wool and the delicious scent of lime.

Just then, Hilda, Crystal’s maid, approached her. “I’m sorry, my lady. I should have tied the hat better.”

“No matter. You may go, Hilda. Take the hackney cab back to Old Town. I can see Sir Walter Scott is waiting for me at his front door,” she said. She was looking forward to meeting the famous poet and author.

“Aye, my lady.” Hilda curtsied and left her.

“So, you’re attending Sir Walter’s soiree? I heard there is a right harridan of a speaker tonight,” Lord Lyle confided, leaning close to her. “Let me escort you to the door.” He held out his arm for her.

She took it and walked with him down North Castle Street, conscious of how well built he was, with broad shoulders, narrow hips, and long legs.

“A harridan, you say?” she mused, biding her time. “She sounds right frightening. Does she come with horns?” He laughed again, and she noticed how his intense blue eyes warmed to her humor. He had a dimple in one cheek when he smiled, which was rather appealing, despite his cutting words.

“She’s a bluestocking, I’m told. One of those dreadful mannish creatures, no doubt with a mustache, who’ll probably bore us. Certainly, she’ll not be a bonny lass like you.”

He found her beautiful? Well, her heart certainly beat faster when he was close, but it irritated her that he thought a woman should be comely if he was expected to listen to her. She turned to him, raised her eyebrows, and looked him up and down as they approached Sir Walter’s gate. “Why are you attending the salon if you’re not interested in this boring, frightening orator?”

“The whisky is excellent, and Sir Walter is a dear friend,” he said with a wink.

Sir Walter Scott held on to the rail and limped down his front stairs to greet them. “Lord Lyle, I see you’ve already met our charming presenter, Lady Crystal Wilding.”

Lord Lyle blanched, his handsome face becoming all angles and planes, making his blade of a nose appear sharper under his high cheekbones. “Our speaker, you say?”

Crystal calmly rubbed above her upper lip, where her mustache would be if she were the harridan he had expected. “Aye, the lord has made my acquaintance and entertained me with his views. I look forward to sharing some of mine, for I’m sure he’ll eat up my words.”

Or learn to eat his own.

Meet Cathleen Ross:

NA: How did you come up with the idea for your book?
CR: I said to my editor that I was going on a trip to Scotland and she asked would I like to write a Regency with a Blue Stocking heroine.

For my research, I read the Vindication of the Rights of Women by Mary Wollstonecraft because I wanted to understand how women thought and felt at that time. I also read The Last Highlander by Sarah Frazer so I could understand the history behind the rebellion. It gave me a feel for the mentality of the Highland people in 1745. The kicker was that when I was doing my research, I realized I was related to some of the main players – The Frazer lord and the Ross lord.

I’m descended from a Scottish Frazer Lady , the sister of the lord who married a Ross—that side fought for the Rebellion—and another Ross Lord, which I’m directly descended from, fought for the English. So, I’m writing about my ancestors.

A lot of little things I put in are about Ross lords. They were a wild lot. One of them cut off the king’s enemies’ heads and presented the heads to the king. That’s how he became an earl. Nice lot I come from.

I used my research to fashion my heroine. My heroine is very strong minded and refuses to accept her place in society. She also has a strong social conscience. From the reviews of Goodreads I can see my readers have enjoyed the humor and the heroine’s strength and ideas.

NA: What was your job before you started writing full time?
CR: I used to be an Assistant Principal of an Adult English College and later a writing teacher for another college but I always wanted to write romance.

NA: What do your family and friends think about your writing?
CR: My friends and family are used to me being a writer as I’ve been published for many years. The first book I sold was an erotic best seller and I sold it to Random House. No one in the family talked about it and some friends were shocked. I was happily married and my husband used to tell everyone I wrote all about him, which made everyone laugh.

NA: What has surprised you about being an author?
CR: One of my big surprises was for winning an award for my first and only science fiction romance about an apocalypse. Although my editor asked me for another, I didn’t want to go back into that world. It was too stressful and now we’re all living it anyway.

NA: Do you outline books ahead of time or are you more of a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer?|
CR: I have to outline for my Entangled editor. She then sends the story idea up the chain for approval. I sign a contract and then start work on the book. For my other books, which I self-publish, when I’m not contracted, I write into the mist.

NA: What has been one of your most rewarding experiences as an author?
CR: Being able to earn money from a passion, having good reviews and emails from readers.

NA: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
CR:  I like walking because I have to sit so much for my job.

NA: What are you working on now?
CR: I always have a few projects going. I’m writing a Scottish Highlander book set just after the Battle of Culloden. The hero, although he is Scottish, fights for the English side because he wants to get his confiscated Scottish estate back from a treacherous old lord.  He refuses to marry the heroine even though she begs him, so she is then forced to marry the old lord.  Her husband, the treacherous old lord, is killed at Culloden, so technically she owns the hero’s estate and she can’t forgive him for rejecting her and leaving her to make his fortune, or for his fighting for the English.

I’ve just finished a book set in 1920s about the Theosophists. They are far more fascinating than the name suggests. That’s with my agent at the moment.

Hello, Cathleen…

Cathleen RossCathleen Ross is a quirky writer who lives on Sydney Harbor with her husband, daughter and very loved dog, Denzel. As an English teacher and editor, she has always surrounded herself with books. When she’s not giving psychic predictions for her family and friends, she’s writing romances where her heroines always get their man. She’s a multi-award-winning author who regularly hits the Amazon best-seller lists.

You can find Cathleen here on https://www.facebook.com/cathleen.ross.3

It’s here! The Proposition by Jan Selbourne

The Proposition by Jan SelbourneUpdated and with new cover art, Jan Selbourne’s The Proposition has just been re-released! If you haven’t read it, you’re missing out on some great historical fiction! Congratulations, Jan!

I read The Proposition a while ago and really enjoyed it. But when I re-read it last week..it blew me away! I don’t know how Jan does it, but I swear, you feel you’re right there with the characters. Her attention to detail is that good! Mystery, murder, mayhem, romance–it’s all here, and you can have it for yourself!

The Proposition by Jan Selbourne

Blurb:

They met on the eve of a battle. One enlisted to avoid prison, the other enlisted to avoid the money lenders. On the bloodied fields of France, Harry Connelly collapses beside the corpse of Andrew Conroy. It is a risk, a hanging offence—and his only hope for a future. Harry swaps identity discs.

Now as Andrew, he is just another face in post-war London until a letter arrives with a proposition. Accepting is out of the question, refusing pushes him into a nightmare of greed, blackmail and murder. To survive he must live this lie without a mistake. Then he falls for Lacey and her secrets. Will the truth set them free or embroil them even further in the webs of deceit that surround them?

Buy link: Amazon KU

The Proposition by Jan Selbourne

Excerpt:

“Excuse me, call of nature.” Elliott left the room.

The niggling coil of unease had been growing and now, as Andrew watched the dining room door close behind Elliot, his instincts were jabbing at him. His host had been charming and hospitable. Last night, after a delicious dinner at Browns Hotel, they’d touched on their family connection, unsure of what to say without offending the other.

Elliot had twirled his glass between his fingers. “My grandparents made a lot of money from the textile industry, my father sold seventy percent of those businesses and invested in other profitable enterprises. To put it simply, he was a very astute, successful businessman, but I’m afraid he was not a good husband and father. He cared little for us and it distresses me that he cared even less for you and your mother.”

Today, Elliot had proudly introduced him to his pride and joy, a dark grey Austin-20hp and they’d motored smoothly out of London and onto the soft Essex countryside. When they’d stopped at Thaxted’s Swan Inn for lunch, Elliot had commented, “Every spare acre in Essex has been growing vegetables, doing their bit for the war effort and rationing.”

When they continued on to Saffron Walden, he’d pointed to his left, “Railway station, a branch line from Audley End. Made a big difference to this town.”  They’d stopped briefly in High Street, then through the marketplace, bumping over cobblestones to a wider road and finally stopping at the entrance of a large Victorian house. He’d been shown to his room overlooking  the rear of the house with its garden rows of vegetables. Elliot had apologised again, business to attend to and please make himself at home.

Not used to the substantial meals, he’d slept until five pm. At seven pm, he’d joined Elliot in the dining room where silver serving dishes containing roast beef, baked potatoes and green vegetables sat on spirit warmers.

“Very informal this evening,” Elliot had said breezily. “I asked my daily help to prepare something easy for us, so please, help yourself.”

The only time his host’s friendliness disappeared was when the daily help tapped on the door to tell him she’d answered the phone and left the message on the phone pad.

Something was very wrong, or perhaps he was too jumpy from living on this tight rope of lies. The door opened again.

“Much more comfortable,” Elliot grinned and sat down. “More wine?”

“No thank you, I might not be able to climb the stairs, but I must thank you for another very pleasant evening.”

Elliot’s grin disappeared. “It’s time to discuss the business proposition which will give us both what we want.”

“I confess I was intrigued when I received your letter,” Andrew replied guardedly.

“You will perform a service and if that service is completed satisfactorily, I will pay you three hundred pounds and pay your outstanding debts.”

Andrew went perfectly still. “Perform a service?”

“You will impregnate the woman I married.”

The Proposition by Jan Selbourne

Jan SelbourneJan Selbourne was born and educated in Melbourne, Australia and her love of literature and history began as soon as she learned to read and hold a pen. After graduating from a Melbourne Business College her career began in the dusty world of ledgers and accounting, working in Victoria, Queensland and the United Kingdom. On the point of retiring, she changed course to work as secretary of a large NSW historical society. Now retired Jan is enjoying her love of travelling and literature. She has two children, a stray live in cat and lives near Maitland, New South Wales.

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Reading this book is no Deadly Gamble! Lorelei Confer

Welcome, Lorelei and Deadly Gamble!

Deadly Gamble by Lorelei Confer

Deadly Gamble by Lorelei Confer

Blurb:

Investigative attorney, Dalton Emberling, hired to find the best friend of a sexy, rival attorney, Elyse Young, uncovers a sinister plot of human trafficking….thrusting them into danger they can only survive as allies.

After they receive resistance from the local police department, suspicions grow.

Will their new relationship, built on trust, be enough or will the evil they face consume them? Will they thrive or die?

Buy links:

Available now on preorder exclusive to Amazon for $.99 in KU and $9.99 in paperback. Release date: April 7.

Amazon KU

**Special Notice!**
Come and join the release party on Facebook, April 7! Have fun, meet some new authors and find new books–including more about Deadly Gamble and the rest of the series!

Meet Lorelei:

NA: How did you come up with the idea for your book?
LC: The first book in the Deadly series, Deadly Deception, came to me in a dream, where I was being chased. We’ve all had those, but in this dream I was held prisoner, slapped, and told I was being sold to “Boss” who like girls with big jugs. As soon as the dream woke me up, I wrote everything down that I could remember and still wasn’t aware of what it all meant.

This was in 2006 before Human Sex Trafficking was in the news every single day. A week or so later there was an article in my local paper detailing a sting the local Task Force for Human Trafficking had implemented at a large house they had surveilled for some time. They’d had numerous arrests and saved the lives of a number of young women who had been held captive. It was like a brothel, but the women never left, just a continuous string of men going in and coming out. The article also stated if for any questions or tips, etc. contact James McBride, Detective on the Task Force. So, I contacted him.

NA: What sort of research did you do to write this book?
LC: I met with the Detective on the local Task Force of Human Trafficking and told him the scenario of my book, he agreed with every point I made; this was real and could actually happen. He answered every question I asked and invited me to the monthly meeting of the Task Force which was comprised of numerous officers from local municipalities, county, and state, and explained how they all worked together.

I also did a lot of research online at the Human Trafficking website. I learned what to look for if someone is being held against their will, what to do, how not to be trafficked, and most importantly how to always be aware of your surroundings; the who, what, why, and when someone is in your personal space. I also read countless stories from victims, that most are never reported. I learned so much I couldn’t include in just one book; hence the series began.

I felt the need to put a message in every book I wrote, that if I could only help one person, it would be worth my time and effort. I’m constantly learning about new tactics the traffickers are using, and what the communities and out country are doing to protect possible victims.

In Deadly Homecoming, I introduced Truckers Against Traffickers. Yes, it’s a real organization. Many large trucking companies have their drivers trained to be on the lookout for possible victims or suspicious activities. They’ve saved many lives already.

NA: What is the main thing you want readers to take away from your book? LC: The message to always be aware; aware of strangers (men and women) who want to be your friend and really get to know them, don’t take them at their word; be aware of parking lots without security, be aware of vehicles parked around your car when you’re ready to get in it at the end of the day, be aware of what’s on your windshield and do not get out of your car to investigate on your own, instead call the police, and know how to defend yourself should someone attempt to abduct you.

NA: Do you have a day job? What was your job before you started writing full time?
LC: I spent 30 years in the financial arena as Controller/CFO of primarily manufacturing companies as well as private accounting. I retired in 2005, but I’ve journaled every day for most of my life.

NA: What started you on the path to writing?
LC: Journaling; it was a way to get the “angst” out.

NA: What do your friends and family think about your being a writer?
LC: They love it and my books and just like so many of my readers, they want to know when the next book is coming out. lol

NA: Do you outline books ahead of time or are you more of a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer?
LC: I’m a by-the-seat-of-your-pants writer but about halfway through I make a list to check off that I want to make sure I included. Things I thought about after the scene was written, etc.

NA: What has been one of your most rewarding experiences as an author? LC: Talking to my readers who tell me they loved my books and want more.

NA: Do you have quirky writing habits?
LC: I write better in the middle of the night. If I can’t sleep and my mind is overloaded with scenes or personal issues, I get up and start writing. For some reason it’s so much easier to focus on someone else’s problems than my own. lol

NA: Which kind of scenes are the hardest for you to write? Action, dialogue, sex?
LC: Action for sure. I have to actually go through the scene many times and make sure I have enough reaction to an action.

NA: Why did you choose the shirt you have on?
LC: Sorry, still in my nightgown and it was on top when I opened my drawer.

NA: First thought when the alarm goes off in the in the morning?
LC: No alarm just wake up, usually with a list of things running around in my head. One, what to make for dinner, is prominent.

NA: What errand/chore do you despise the most? Housework, cleaning, etc. LC: Fortunately, my husband loves to do laundry, wash pots and pans, and he even cleans windows. And enjoys it.

NA: What are you working on now?
LC: I have five releases this year. Two in the Deadly series, two in the Saddle Creek series and A Cowboy’s Sweet Spot in the anthology, Romances on the Range. The Saddle Creek series is a great series and I enjoy writing about cowboys and Jackson Hole, WY. So far, I have 4 books out, working on the Sheriff’s story, who is in every book so far as well as another Christmas book.

NA: What’s your most favorite and least favorite to do of the writing process?
LC: The writing and initial idea/plotting process if my absolute favorite. Once I have that all down I feel like I’m done, but then there is all the promo (my least favorite) that is continual, every single day. I just want to write.

Author Bio:
Lorelei ConferLorelei Confer lives on a peninsula in the mid-west coast of Florida with her high school sweetheart, now husband, and AJ, her longhaired Chihuahua.

In the fourth grade, she wrote her first story—something about getting a shot at the doctors—that was produced by the teacher for parents and students in an assembly. When she was older, she spilled her guts in a journal every night and wrote long newsy love letters to Viet Nam.

She is a multi-published author of romantic suspense with two series: The Deadly series and the Saddle Creek series. She also has written numerous novellas and short stories.

She loves to hear from her readers so if you want to stay “in the know” visit her website, sign up for her newsletters and contact her.

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The Women of the Risking Love Series by Callie Carmen

The woman of Risking Love by Callie CarmenRecently, I read an article by One Love Foundation titled, 5 Requirements for a Strong Friendship.

The first was “trust.” I had to agree wholeheartedly.
The six friends in my Risking Love series had that in spades. They have kept personal secrets for each other that one normally wouldn’t utter outside one’s family. From alcoholism to abuse. Being stalked or loving someone that belongs to another. And so much more.

The second was “equality.” While each of the friends in my stories are intelligent, kind women with strong personalities, they treat each other with respect. No one person in the group dominates the rest of the women. They may ask advice of each other, but no one ever demands that they should do it a certain way, their way.

The third was “compassion.” It doesn’t matter which one of the six friends they go to for help they are received with open arms. Sometimes they talk things out as a group and other times they seek the love and advice from just one of their friends. They have cried, laughed, and genuinely cared for each other’s precious hearts together.

The fourth was “honesty.” Sometimes honesty hurts, like what happens between Bella and Violet in the novel, Joseph. Or when one of them gets pregnant and the only one they can tell is their friend. The women of the Risking Love series have remained close even when honesty tugs at their friendship.

The fifth was “Independence.” Each of the Risking Love women is independent. They lean on each other, but they have other friends or family important to them too. Like when Violet was given a surprise party, and the room was full of friends that the girls were meeting for the first time. Or when Carlie got married, and the hall had an overflowing number of friends and family. It was important to me to keep these women’s independence of each other. They have a healthy and loving relationship with each other. But they also have a separate life that includes other friends and family.

These six women have a strong foundation of trust, equality, compassion, honesty, and independence with each other. Their friendship is healthy and should stand the test of time.

Anthony by Callie Carmen

ANTHONY (Risking Love book four)
By Callie Carmen
Published by Black Velvet Seductions
The ebook of Anthony is on pre-order sale for 99c until the publication date of April 1.

Anthony by Callie CarmenIn ANTHONY, my latest novel, Tessa would need all the help she could get from her friends to win the heart of Tony Telesco. And even they may not be enough to help convince him that Tessa is nothing like his selfish, demanding ex-wife. Tony wanted nothing to do with a rich, spoiled, daddy’s girl like Tessa. Would Tess and her friends be able to convince Anthony that she was not as she seemed?

RISKING LOVE NOVELS
Take a risk on the new Risking Love series. These steamy stories will have you laughing, crying, and your heart racing.
Read each one as a standalone or better yet as a series.

Book 1 PATRICK
Jaq had no interest in a serious relationship because life at an early age had taught her that men weren’t to be trusted. But she met Patrick who soon had her thinking about risking her heart. For Patrick the time for Jaq dating other men had ended. He wanted her all to himself. But would she stay if she knew the secrets of his past? Patrick wasn’t the only man who wanted Jaq, and the other man was willing to kill to have her.

Book 2 NICOLAS
Carlie planned to finish at the top of her class, get a corporate job, and work her way up the ladder. She refused to risk having a life of poverty ever again. Within her plans, there was no room for a relationship. So she had sworn off men; especially the good Dr. Nicolas Antonis.
Nicolas had other plans. They included her becoming his.
As if Nicolas wasn’t a big enough distraction; Carlie had to worry about her roommate’s, abusive ex-boyfriend, coming for her too.

Book 3 JOSEPH
Violet had experienced a lot of loss in her life. She wasn’t sure if she could ever trust love again. That was until she fell for Joseph. The problem was he belonged to her friend, Bella. Could Violet risk her friendship over a man? If she did break that friendship, would it destroy her relationship with her closest girlfriends forever?

If Violet risked her heart again and had a night of uncontrolled passion, would he abandon her like the others she had loved? Or would Joseph be her salvation?

Book 4 ANTHONY
Tessa seemed to have it all, her father’s fortune, men falling at her feet, and a fairly new but successful business. Secretly, all she longed for was her mother’s hug once more, her heartbroken widowed father acknowledging her existence, and the love of Tony.
Recently divorced, from a selfish, demanding ex-wife, Tony Telesco wanted nothing to do with a rich, spoiled, daddy’s girl like Tessa. Would she be able to convince him that she was not as she seemed?

Book Five JOSHUA: Coming Soon

Anthony by Callie Carmen

Callie also has two other romance stories. Her first published story is in the Craving Loyalty Anthology and is a mobster romance titled, The Enemy I Know published by Crave Publishing.

The other is the Mystic Desire Supernatural Anthology published by Black Velvet Seductions.  Her story is titled Dream Catcher.  The other stories shared in this wonderful paranormal novel are written by a group of talent authors that have all become friends.

Anthony by Callie Carmen

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CALLIE CARMEN
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The first FALSE: False Memory by Meli Raine

False Memory by Meli RainesFREE First in Series throughout February.

She’s faking her amnesia to fool a very real killer.

It all started with the bereavement flowers with my name on them.

Not the best way to wake up, right? I work in a flower shop. I know a funeral arrangement when I see one.

I know a killer when I see one, too. And one is standing in my hospital room right now, straight behind the man who saved my life.

I can’t tell anyone the truth, because that’s the fastest way to really die. So I do the next best thing. I “lose” my memory.

I fake my amnesia.

Pretending not to remember a brutal attempted murder has its perks. The killer is backing down, spending less time around me, loosening the noose.

The less I claim to recall, the more my rescuer, Duff, works to help me “remember.” I hate lying to him.

But he doesn’t understand that my memory is dangerous. To me. And to him.

Fooling everyone isn’t easy. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done.

Except it’s starting to look like I’ve been fooling myself.

In more ways than one.

The False Trilogy includes False Hope and False Start.

Buy Links:

Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/false-memory/id1387687477
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/false-memory-false-1
Nook: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/false-memory-meli-raine/1132505173?ean=2940161244715
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Meli_Raine_False_Memory_False_1?id=MnuiDwAAQBAJ
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/False-Memory-1-Meli-Raine-ebook/dp/B07V9Y48KQ/
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.com/False-Memory-1-Meli-Raine-ebook/dp/B07V9Y48KQ/
Amazon AU: https://www.amazon.com.au/False-Memory-1-Meli-Raine-ebook/dp/B07V9Y48KQ/
Amazon CA: https://www.amazon.ca/False-Memory-1-Meli-Raine-ebook/dp/B07V9Y48KQ/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40405827-false-memory
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/books/false-memory-by-meli-raine

Audio narrated by Sebastian York and Andi Arndt available on Audible Escape.

Audible: https://www.amazon.com/False-Memory-Book-1/dp/B07VXRJLP8/
Amazon Audio: https://www.amazon.com/False-Memory-Book-1/dp/B07VXRJLP8/
iTunes: https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/false-memory-false-book-1-unabridged/id1475182605

False Memory by Meli Raines

Excerpt:
Blink.

I open my eyes. It’s light.

“Can you believe it, Lily?” a woman says to me. “It looks like Bosworth is going to win! When people ask you who the president is, you’re going to have to remember the new one. President Harwell Bosworth. Of course, we won’t know for sure until late tonight, but I’ll keep you posted. I’ll keep you posted, sweetie,” she says as she adjusts the IV in my right arm, the one that burns whenever they start a new bag of medicine.

“When the doctor asks you who the president is, you’ll have the right answer. I know you will. I don’t care how long you’ve been like this. The doctors are wrong. Plenty of people have come out of this after more than a year. I know you’re going to be one of them. My Lily is a fighter.”

She squeezes my hand.

I almost squeeze back. Almost. So close.

I look to the left. A dark man. No–dark clothes. Dark hair. Pale skin peeking out under it all. Someone has something on my head and tape pulls at the corner of my eye. Blinking is harder. It hurts, like someone weakened the tender skin under my eyes. I close my eyes.

Open them.

“Hey there, Lily,” a nurse says. I try to look over at her but can’t. Eyes hurt.

Close eyes.

Open them.

The man.

Oh, God, I know that man.

False Memory by Meli RainesAuthor Bio:

Meli Raine writes romantic suspense with hot bikers, intense undercover DEA agents, bad boys turned good, and Special Ops heroes — and the women who love them. Meli rode her first motorcycle when she was five years old, but she played in the ocean long before that. She lives in New England with her family.

Social Media Links:

Website: http://meliraine.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meliraine
Twitter: https://twitter.com/meliraineauthor
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/meli-raine
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13536295.Meli_Raine
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/beV0gf

Reviews and Endorsements for Meli Raine Books:

“The first book in the False trilogy is a psychological thriller worthy of Hitchcock, keeping you guessing until the very end.” — Apple Books Editors

“…intrigue and dark humor on display in this thriller…”

While the immediate—and more compelling—tension in Raine’s (A Shameless Little Bet, 2018, etc.) heart-pumping series opener comes from Lily’s constant proximity to her would-be killer, the action takes place against a backdrop of secret government scandals. The “screwed-up D.C.-insider scandal,” as it is clumsily summarized early on, is pleasingly twisty…

Fortunately, Lily’s voice is captivating, wry, and tough enough to sell this thriller. The novel ends with a cliffhanger that startles, if only because readers will have become so attached to Lily. — Kirkus Reviews

“Fresh, riveting, and thrumming with emotion and romantic suspense, False Memory is absolutely unputdownable. You need this book!” – New York Times bestselling author Meghan March

“I accidentally lost a day to this trilogy! It is unputdownable. Apparently I’m on a dark-and-twisty binge, and this book is addictive.” — USA Today bestselling author Sarina Bowen (review for Harmless series)

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