Saturday, July 31, 2021

B@@K REVEAL: Written For You by Robin Bielman

Written For You
Robin Bielman
Published by: Entangled: Amara
Publication date: August 23rd 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Cam Radcliffe is on a deadline to write his next blockbuster action film, but all he can think about lately is writing romance. The inspiration? His best friend, Reese. 

They’ve known each other for years, but suddenly working in the same office has given him a whole new appreciation of her. Reese is driving him wild in the best possible way, and Cam only hopes it isn’t obvious. If she knew, he’s certain their friendship would reach The End. 

So, of course, Reese figures it out. But the awkward, negative response he expected is nothing like the reality—like they’re living their own romcom. 

A romcom that’s giving him the worst case of writer’s block at the absolute worst time in his career. Especially when the secret Reese has been forced to keep comes out…and threatens to ruin everything. 

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Author Bio:

Robin Bielman is the USA Today bestselling author of over twenty novels. When not attached to her laptop, she loves to read, go to the beach, frequent coffee shops (and by frequent she means daily but she's trying to break the habit), and spend time with her family and friends.

Her fondness for swoon-worthy heroes who flirt and stumble upon the girl they can't live without jumpstarts most of her story ideas. She writes with a steady stream of caffeine nearby (see above) and the best dog on the planet, Harry, by her side. She also dreams of traveling to faraway places and loves to connect with readers. Keep in touch on social! xoxo

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BOOK BLITZ: A Vampire's Sin by Marie-Claude Bourque #GIVEAWAY

A Vampire’s Sin
Marie-Claude Bourque
(The Order of the Black Oak – Vampires, #2)
Publication date: July 27th 2021
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

A VAMPIRE’S SIN: A Slow-Burn Urban Fantasy Romance

Meet the Order of the Black Oak: a powerful order of modern-day warriors fighting evil to protect the ones they love.

Son of an ancient vampire and a legendary French witch, Mont-Royal Immortal Magnovald St-Amand has lived for so long that nothing matters except his ruling over the Montreal’s sultry nightlife. But when he chooses to help an ambitious real estate tycoon rescue her kid sister from a pack of daemons, he finds deep yearnings in his soul that he thought were buried forever.

If you love loyal tough guys with hearts, satisfying slow-burn paranormal romance and safe Happily Ever Afters, the Black Oak World is for you.

***** Fantastic series of action, magic and awesome romance. You will fall in love with the characters and feel you are right with them.

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EXCERPT:

She’d come to the club to talk to him countless times in the last three months, but today was different. Today, her quest was personal.

The one she was coming to see was the most infuriating man of her acquaintances—as if nothing serious ever touched him. Keeping her persona at the highest level of professionalism was the best way to approach him.

And there he was.

She watched him work at his usual corner booth beside the bar.

Magnovald St-Amand. Owner of this trendy Montreal nightspot, his actual wealth a secret, even to her. No doubt its origin tethering between both sides of the law, some legitimate and some probably criminal.

And this time—even though it killed her to have to do this—it was the latter she had come for.

Mag, as they called him, was pouring over a pile of ledgers spread across the table and punching numbers on a printing calculator, his demeanor unusually focused on the menial task.

A nudge of respect rose with a flutter in her stomach to see him work on his own accounts.

Such a contradiction. Nothing in his laid-back facade indicated a thriving business owner. As always, his dark hair brushed his neck, the curls a little too long above the plain black t-shirt emphasizing the defined broadness of his shoulders and arms. His skin—a tad too pale to be healthy—contrasted gently with the sculpted cheekbones and dark determined brows.

And as she watched him check his calculations, she knew she had mere seconds before needing to brace herself from his immense charm.

Once his dark gaze hit her, when his lips curled into that constant amused expression he had every time they met, she would have to fight hard her attraction for the man who was nothing like her.

His life was far from the world she came from. His was late evenings and sensual pleasures. Dubious connections all over the city and the lording over its luxurious nightlife.

Hers was pondered and orderly. Charity balls and business bureaus. A continuous quest to keep her tight hold on the Montreal’s real estate power.

As she looked at him now with a slight weight lodged in her chest, in those few seconds before he would become aware of her presence, she couldn’t help but wonder if there was perhaps a possible place where they might be alike.

But that small hopeful moment was soon over.

He knew she was here.

Magnovald St-Amand slowly lifted his head. With a profound inhale, she took hold of herself as the dark undercurrent of his gaze seized her and threatened her very soul.

Author Bio:

Marie-Claude Bourque is a Montreal-born Seattle-based author of gothic paranormal romance and the winner of the American Title V award with her first novel ANCIENT WHISPERS.

Her writing features modern-day fantasy skillfully weaved into infinitely romantic supernatural stories between smart strong women and complex passionate heroes.

Happily Ever After always absolutely guaranteed!


 

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Friday, July 30, 2021

B@@K REVEAL: Blood Slave by CEE BEE #GIVEAWAY

Blood Slave
CEE BEE
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

I’m not a screw up. I just have issues with anger. And shopping. Maybe some gambling.

Fine. I’m a hot mess.

And I’m not the only one in my family with impulse control issues, either. After all, that’s how my father ended up owing big money to the Russian mob—Dad simply couldn’t resist taking some cash that wasn’t his (and saddling me with his debts). To make matters worse, my little sister, Sasha, falls sick as hell with a mysterious blood disease. As a result, I’ll do almost anything for extra cash, from running surveillance gigs to competing in wet bikini contests. Shoot me now.

At last, the chance for some mega cash arrives. Cue the angelic choir! It’s a job with Caelin Vass, the so-called king of Empire Investments. Vass is Scottish royalty, smoking hot, and a manipulative tyrant to anyone on his staff. Rumor is, he’s also a powerful vampire who seduces twenty-somethings like me, turning us regular humans into blood slaves who’ll do anything for his bite.

Yeah, right. Vampires. Like I believe in that B-S.

All of which is why I commit to a short-term surveillance gig with Vass. As we gamblers say, you can’t skip easy money. I’ll get my cash, pay off all debts, and run for the hills. And if the Scotsman ever tries to get bitey for some reason, then he’ll learn I can take care of myself in a big way.

The more I think about it, the more I’m certain that my plan is bulletproof. That is, unless vampires are real…

Not a fan of the serialized format? BLOOD SLAVE will also be released as an ebook in December, 2021.

Vampires of the Daemonverse
1. Blood Slave – See it on Kindle Vella
2. Blood Lust
3. Blood Thirst
4. Blood Guilt
5. Blood Line

Live today on Kindle Vella


Author Bio:

You may know me as Christina Bauer, author of more than 35 books including the popular Angelbound series. Normally, I focus on young adult epic fantasy, but some older readers want steamy scenes where the door doesn’t shut, if you get my meaning. So I’m thrilled to announce my new alter ego, CEE BEE (in all capital letters because why not?) I can’t wait to share this new adventure with you!

Be the first to know about new releases from CEE BEE by signing up for her newsletter: https://tinyurl.com/CEEBEE-news

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B@@K REVEAL: Huntsman by Cambria Hebert

Huntsman
Cambria Hebert
(House of Misfits, #3)
Publication date: August 13th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Fairy Tales, Retelling, Romance

Once upon a time…
A boy is sired with poison in his veins. He cannot outrun the venom in his blood, so he escapes from those who put it there. Secreting away his darkest tendencies, he grows to become a friend, brother, bartender…
Huntsman.

A man who becomes exactly what he ran from, a villain of his own making.

A villain who falls in love with the one woman he is told to steer clear of.
Enchanted by a girl with hair as brilliant as the sun and innocence as potent as his corruption.

A girl locked away in a tower and told she will never walk again.
This boy doesn’t want to be the villain in her story. For once, he desires to be a hero.
Regrettably, his past creeps in like thick, winding fog, reaching wickedly for the one he loves the most. A hero is no match for the rotten tree from which he fell.
Once a huntsman, always a huntsman.
Poisoning guaranteed.

**Huntsman is a contemporary romance novel – a modern retelling of the fairy tale Tangled. It is recommended that you read Ivory White (House of Misfits #1) before diving into Huntsman. This book does not have a cliff hanger and has a HEA.

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Author Bio:

Cambria Hebert is an award winning, bestselling novelist of more than twenty books. She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair.

Besides writing, Cambria loves a caramel latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching movies. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chorkie (the real boss of the house).

Cambria has written within the young adult and new adult genres, penning many paranormal and contemporary titles. Her favorite genre to read and write is romantic suspense. A few of her most recognized titles are: The Hashtag Series, Text, Torch, and Tattoo.

Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.

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BOOK BLITZ: To Hold a Rancher's Hand by Kadi James #GIVEAWAY

To Hold A Rancher’s Hand
Kadi James
Publication date: July 27th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Rafe is a volunteer fireman who is sworn to protect his ranch and town. Gail has just lost everything to the devastating fire that destroyed her home. Will these two be able to heal their scars and find new love and happiness?

After the trauma of war, rancher Rafe comes home to help his community as a volunteer fireman while trying to find balance in civilian life. He must carry the mantle of his family, who have been Guardians of Coyote Valley for generations. Now its up to Gabe to protect the town from the fires that ravage the national forests around Coyote Valley. But as he gives his all to the community, he often forgets to take care of his own heart.

Loner Gail has just lost everything to the devastating fire that destroyed her home. When the handsome rancher who saved her offers to let her stay at his place, it seems like the perfect solution. Until she remembers she doesn’t really like living with people. It’s why she was living up on top of the mountain in the first place.

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EXCERPT:

“You’ve been back a couple years.” Javier sipped his coffee as he gazed pensively at his former ward. “I think you’ve got a better handle on it than you let on. But it’s alright. I’d rather you take it at your pace and maybe think about settling down.”

“Settle down?” Rafe couldn’t stifle his laughter. “With what? All I ever see are the sheep and dogs.”

“Well, you’re always pent up in this house.” Javier motioned to encompass the kitchen and the rest of Rafe’s home.

“I spend fifteen hours a day working out on the ranch.” Rafe chided, sliding his breakfast onto the plate. “I’d hardly call that pent up in the house. You know I’ve never had much luck with women.”

“It’s only because you don’t actually ask any of them out,” Javier said with a chuckle.

“I just haven’t met a woman who, well, a woman who made sense to me.” Gabriel took a big bite of his toast and egg.

“Maybe you need to rethink how you make sense to other people.” Javier stood up to wash out his coffee mug. “Maybe it’s the way you’re looking at it.”

“I’ve never even had a girlfriend,” Rafe said. “That is as awkward as they come.”

“Well, it’s hard to have a girlfriend when you’re in the military. But I was married when I was 21. You know you need a support system to get you through some of these things in life that you’re going to face.” Javier placed his cup in the drying rack.

“I can’t imagine facing worse than I have.” Rafe took another bite.

“I pray you don’t,” Javier said. “But whatever you face, a wife sure helps with that. Martha is the only reason I was able to make it through when your parents died. Here I was all of a sudden responsible for a whole ranch and a small, grieving child.”

“Well, I don’t have a child to take care of.” Rafe shrugged as he finished his breakfast.

“No. You’re going to have a hundred children to take care of as soon as these ewes start lambing.” Javier laughed and drained his coffee.

Rafe was just rinsing his plate when a loud static sound filled the air. A dispatcher’s voice called out over the radio. “Report of a half-acre in the grass, moderate rate of spread. Coyote Valley vegetation fire…Cow Mountain Road near mile post 12.38. Command 8. Tactical 2. First at scene will establish roadway IC. Stand by for check back on command 8.”

Gabriel and Javier exchanged a look. “That’s on North Ridge.” Gabriel left his plate in the sink and headed to the entry hall to grab his gear.

“All volunteers report to base,” the dispatcher continued. “Fire house 13 we have a report of a blaze starting up on Cow Mountain we need all hands to the fire department please including the volunteers we need as much help as we possibly can get. There’s a fire on Cow Mountain heading south.”

Javier squinted out the window and the trees swaying in the wind. “There are a few houses up on North Ridge. It’ll get to those first.”

“People living up there, still?” Rafe hoisted his web gear onto his shoulder and slung his boots and helmet up in his other hand.

“Yeah, I think there are about five houses up there,” Javier said, pulling out his phone and preparing a group text. “I’ll get the guys together.”

“I’ll head to the houses. It’s probably near where the fire started.” Rafe nodded to Javier who pulled the door open for him. “It’s not like there was a lightning storm going on.”

“You get what you need to get done,” Javier said. “I’ll send the boys up the mountain as soon as I can.”

“We’re going to need all the hands we can get,” Rafe threw his gear in the back of the truck and tipped his hat to Javier. “If the wind is blowing south, the fire will be headed straight to us.”

Author Bio:

Kadi James was raised on a ranch in Northern California riding horses, writing stories, and waiting for true love to happen. Her passion for storytelling took her around the world to experience global cultures, history, and mythology, always looking for the similarities rather than the differences. After years overseas, country roads brought her back home again and she returned to California, her family, and the ranch where she grew up. Today she writes Sweet Ranch Romance that touches reader's hearts by reminding them of the simple things that really matter in life; family, kindness, and always...love.

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Thursday, July 29, 2021

B@@K REVEAL: Truly Inn Love by Amelia Foster #PreORDER

Truly Inn Love
Amelia Foster
Published by: August 26th 2021
Publication date: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Life choices separated them, but fate proves they are truly in love.

Inheriting the Willow Falls Inn from their aunt and uncle was a gift the Alden sisters couldn’t pass up. With each sibling facing upheaval in their personal and professional lives, eldest sister Gavynn sees returning to the place they called home as the fresh start they all need. But the century old Victorian picks their return to show its age with broken pipes and a mess that makes Gavynn question her choices. But the real chaos comes in the form of the handyman dispatched to rescue them.

Cade Donaldson was finding a new kind of normal after his father’s heart attack. The family construction business flourished under Cade’s management while the older Donaldson recuperated and his routine gave him much needed predictability and comfort. That is until the girl who left Cade without so much as a goodbye came crashing back into his life without warning.

The adolescent bond they formed lingers under the surface, but ghosts they each battle threaten the new future hanging just within reach.

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Pre-order for only 99 cents!


Author Bio:

A simple girl born in the South, raised along the Eastern seaboard, now in the wintry North who loves books, coffee, and fluffy cuddles from all the fur babies whether they are hers or not.

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B@@K REVEAL: Filthy Elites Boxset by Sam Mariano, Angel Lawson, Michelle Hercules, Shantel Tessier, Lucy Smoke, May Sage, Eva Chance, Lexi Archer and Gemma Weir

Filthy Elites
Sam Mariano, Angel Lawson, Michelle Hercules, Shantel Tessier, Lucy Smoke, May Sage, Eva Chance, Lexi Archer and Gemma Weir
Publication date: April 28th 2022
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Filthy Elites is a collection of scorching hot, full-length, standalone enemies to lovers romance by Sam Mariano, Angel Lawson, Michelle Hercules, Shantel Tessier, Lucy Smoke, May Sage, Eva Chance, Lexi Archer and Gemma Weir.

In these standalone novels, you’ll reconnect with your favorite protagonists from related series and discover more wonderfully imperfect, messed-up, kick-ass new adult characters.

From stepbrothers to mafia lords and rich elites who take everything for granted, they have one thing in common: their love interests hate their guts. But they’re kings and queens, and they’ll fight tooth and nails for what’s theirs.

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BOOK BLITZ: Damaged Gods by JA Huss (w/a KC Cross) #GIVEAWAY

Damaged Gods
JA Huss writing as KC Cross
Publication date: July 27th 2021
Genres: Paranormal/Monster Romance

When I answered an ad for a caretaker at Saint Mark’s Sanctuary I thought I’d be dusting chandeliers and polishing floors. I didn’t expect to be tricked into a curse, going in debt to a monster, and being forced to take a self-paced “Let’s Learn Magic” course so I can fix a two-thousand-year-old problem.

And that monster?
Not your ordinary, everyday beast.
He has hooves, and horns, and fur on his legs.
But ya know where he doesn’t have fur?
Yep. There.
Which is fine.
Except he doesn’t wear pants.

Nothing at Saint Mark’s is exactly what it seems.
The entire inside is magic, the hallways upstairs are nothing but parties from the past, and the super-hot guy who lives in the dungeon?
Yeah.
Not human.

My name is Pie and all I want is to be a normal girl with an average life.
I refuse to get stuck in this curse.
I refuse to learn magic to break it.
And there is no way in hell I will fall in love with a monster.

Famous.
Last.
Words.

DAMAGED GODS is a fun paranormal monster romance about a girl named Pie who accidentally stumbles into a monster’s 2000-year-old curse only to find she’s exactly where she’s supposed to be.

Goodreads / Amazon / Audible

EXCERPT:

“If this kills me—”

“If this kills you, you should thank me. Since you’re immortal. That means your curse would be broken.”

Well. She’s got a point there. I put the test tube up to my lips, almost pass out from the horrible smell, then down it in one gulp. It hits my stomach with a burn.

“The burn passes,” Pie says hurriedly. And she puts her hand on my arm, either faking compassion or really meaning it.

Her touch is warm too. And something about it does make me feel better. Soon, the burn is gone and in its place is a tingling feeling in my hands. Then a buzzing in my head.

“Did you get to the buzzing yet?” she asks. I nod. “Good. You’re almost there. Now, while we’re waiting for it to work, let’s talk about this job.”

“No.” I put up a hand. “Not now.”

“Yes. I need a job. Just a part-time one. The Honey Bean is looking for a waitress. I need that, Pell. And I will use all my money to buy what we need and then I won’t have to go into debt.”

“You don’t get it. That won’t work. The harder you fight the curse, the more it works against you. The less magic money you use, the more the curse will force you to use it. Bad things will happen. And that will force you to work harder to…” I pause, not really wanting to say the last bit.

“Harder to what?” she presses.

“Please me. The harder you’ll have to work to please me with the debt book stuff.”

She points a finger in my face. “I will not be blowing you. Just… FYI.”

I cannot hide my laugh. “Good to know. And for the record, Pie, you’re not my type.”

She lifts her chin up in indignation like I just insulted her. “I’m not your type?”

“Nope.”

“What kind of type do you like? Bull girls?”

“I’m not a bull.”

“A satyr chimera girl?”

“There are no female satyr chimeras. We’re all men.”

“Then what is your type?” And now she’s annoyed.

I shrug. “I’ve always been partial to the nymphs.”

“Nymphs.” She crinkles her nose like the thought of nymphs is distasteful. “Water fairies?”

“Not fairies. Nymphs. You know. Willowy girls with evil intentions lurking in the forest.”

She laughs. A real laugh. “You like bad girls?”

“I do.”

“I’m not bad enough for you?”

“Not even close.”

Author Bio:

JA Huss is a New York Times Bestselling author and has been on the USA Today Bestseller's list 21 times. She writes characters with heart, plots with twists, and perfect endings. Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world. Her book Eighteen was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie Award in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Her audiobook, Mr. Perfect, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017. Taking Turns was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Total Exposure was nominated for a RITA Award in 2019.

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Wednesday, July 28, 2021

B@@K REVEAL: The Inn at Summer Island by Rachel Magee

The Inn at Summer Island
Rachel Magee
Published by: Entangled: Amara
Publication date: August 23rd 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Millie Leclair is a mess, complete with a dead-end career and a flat-lining love life. So when she inherits her great aunt’s oceanfront B&B in a resort town in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, she doesn’t hesitate to pack up her car and set off on a new adventure. It’ll be fun.

Of course, life seldom goes according to plan. The B&B is barely habitable for one person, let alone ready to open for business. With dwindling funds, Millie has no choice but to roll up her sleeves and tackle the repairs by herself. Yeah, so much fun.

Ex-pro golfer Braxton Channing thought being a full-time single parent kept him on his toes. That was before he spotted his new neighbor teetering on her rooftop—which is only the beginning of her long list of renovations for the old house—and he added keeping her safe to his to-do list.

But Millie is determined to dive headfirst into repairs regardless of the risk, and suddenly, battling with his daughter over brushing her teeth seems easier than winning an argument with Millie. She’s exasperating. And oddly delightful. And most definitely shouldn’t be let anywhere near a tall ladder.

For a guy who’s sworn off romantic relationships, why does he suddenly want to be the one who gets the privilege of watching Millie conquer not just the B&B but his heart as well?

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Author Bio:

Rachel wrote her first novel when she was twelve and entered it into a contest for young author/illustrators. Unfortunately, the judges weren't impressed with her stick figures. So she dropped the dream of becoming a world famous illustrator and stuck to spinning stories. When she's not busy working on her latest book, she loves to travel with her family and friends. By far, her favorite destination is the beach, which tends to work its way into most of her stories. Between vacations, you can find her at home in The Woodlands, TX with her wonderful husband, their two adventurous kids and a couple of spirited pets, all of whom share Rachel's love of the ocean. Well, except the cat and dog. They're both afraid of water. Find out more about what Rachel has been up to at rachelmageebooks.com.

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BOOK BLITZ: The Stolen Husband by Loretta Lost #GIVEAWAY

The Stolen Husband
Loretta Lost
(Marriage Mistake Thrillers, #2)
Publication date: July 22nd 2021
Genres: Adult, Thriller

My husband was stolen. While I was in a coma.

But I’m okay. I swear. Am I a little salty? Sure.
Have I fantasized about revenge? Absolutely. Made plans to get him back? Naturally. Have I stabbed a voodoo doll while crying my eyes out? Just a little bit.

But I am a strong, independent badass, and I am choosing to let go and move on. I got attached to my new guy a little too fast to soothe my wounds, but Lukas is amazing. Younger, hotter, obsessed with the gym, and his body shows it. He’s all I need to forget about my stupid ex-husband.

But when I start getting cryptic messages on social media to stay away from him… and creepy letters shoved under my front door? Cars following me late at night? I am starting to regret diving in so fast…

I may have bitten off more than I can chew. But I would rather be the predator than the prey…

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT:

Now I wish I hadn’t worn the heels.

“Lukas!” I call out hoarsely, afraid for him.

As I run through the narrow, twisty cobblestoned streets in six-inch stilettos, my legs begin to ache again and remind me that I’m still not in great health. As swarms of people surround me, it gets even worse as my heart rate doubles, pounding so rapidly that my chest hurts. I can feel it in my ears, and it’s making me dizzy. I feel like I’m going to pass out. I try to breathe.

People are brushing past me and touching me, coming from every direction. Spinning me around until I’m lost and don’t know where I am. I haven’t been this close to so many strangers without masks since before I got sick with Covid. And even way before that, I was mostly being careful… I only had a few, select indiscretions that I thought would be safe.

But this all happened to me because I trusted people, and got close to people. The wrong people. And now I’m in a crowd of strangers breathing on me, and I don’t know any of them, and… I’m alone.

“Lukas!” I call out again, desperately. I run in a different direction, trying to find some sign of him.

What if I never see him again? Wouldn’t that be a cruel trick for fate to play on me? To give me just a little taste of happiness, a sampler plate like the tapas appetizers, and then just tear it away completely?

Wouldn’t that be just my luck? Of course.

Nothing else seems to go right for me lately. I should have known that the moment I agree to marry a guy, he’s bound to get kidnapped and murdered immediately when we try to go out to dinner. Why did we post our location on social media? Why were we so stupid?

All these thoughts are getting to me. Worrying if Lukas is okay. Running around the restaurant in heels. I feel so useless. I find a spot where some grass is growing, and let my body sink to the ground. The grass is cool and wet underneath my legs, and that’s a bit comforting, as my body was kind of overheating. I reach down and undo the straps of my high heels to slip them off my aching feet.

I just hope he’s okay. I really couldn’t take it right now if anything happened to him. I need him a lot more than I realized. Just the prospect of losing him is making me feel so sick and afraid—I guess this shows me how much I actually do love him.

I am sitting here on the street corner in my red dress, like an abandoned kitten, watching the people pass me by on the sidewalk. I’m not sure what to do. Should I call the police? And what do I tell them? Would they even do anything to help? Or do they have to wait a certain period of time before they can start searching?

Author Bio:

Loretta Lost is a USA Today bestselling author who writes stories about survivors. She is the author of the CLARITY series and Sophie Shields novels. She lives in Toronto, Canada with adorable cats, and she hopes to find a good boyfriend who isn't fictional before all her hair turns grey.

Follow @loretta.lost on Instagram, @LorettaLost on Twitter, or connect on Facebook: www.facebook.com/LorettaLost

You can also subscribe to Loretta's mailing list for updates and a free book: www.eepurl.com/O0WTL

Fun fact: The author's real name is Nadia-- she chose her pen name because her sister's name is Loretta, and her sister is lost.


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BOOK BLITZ: The Shadow Queen by K. Rea #GIVEAWAY

The Shadow Queen
K. Rea
(The Wolfrik Trilogy, #2)
Publication date: July 22nd 2021
Genres: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Urban Fantasy

A SMOLDERING COURT.
A DIVIDED PEOPLE.
A WARNING FROM THE GODDESS.

With the Court of Shadows in ruins, Evelyn Wolfrik has one goal – to rebuild.
After an encounter with the God of the Forest himself and a summons from the Court of Light, Evelyn’s future seems anything but certain.

Leaving the forests, her pack, and fledgling Court behind, Evelyn travels to the white mountains of the Court of Light. Deep in the mountains, navigating not only a frigid court but also challenges and trials she never could have foreseen, she risks losing more than just her crown.

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT:

Gryphons in the Night

I snuck up the mountainside as quickly and quietly as I could. The rocks beneath my feet slid, the goats noticed. The ones awake went on alert as I ran towards them, weaving through the coverage. They darted. The sleepy one, though, was slow. Its instincts kicked in, and it ran for open ground away from me. I herded it up the mountainside to the snow in its panic. It floundered in the snow as I stalked it. The goat recognized me as a predator; its bleats became screeches on the wind as I lunged.

With the goat’s neck in my jaws, the screeches I heard grew louder, to an unbearable volume. I snapped the goat’s neck as a roar erupted around me, and the screech kept going. They did not belong to the goat. I pulled my prey free from the snow and ran with it down the mountain to a boulder I had seen earlier.

A shadow crossed over me as a gryphon collided with Ares; both creatures were engulfed in Ares’s cloud of flame. Training in the woods, watching Aiden and Ares tussle, did nothing to prepare me for the violence I now witnessed. The goat carcass slowed me down, but we needed the food, and I knew I needed to get out of Ares’ way. I’d only be a distraction on the ground. A second shadow passed over me, more screeches echoed through the mountain. I reached the boulder and dropped the damned goat in the shadow of the large stone before peeking back around the rock.

There in the fading light, Ares fought in his dragon form, swooping and diving between two gryphons. Their lion bodies were dark, like their avian heads and wings, a silhouette against the darkening sky. Their beaks were sharp and screeching, yet Ares didn’t hesitate or run. He maneuvered around them as if it was all a choreographed dance; to him, maybe it was. The ribbon of light from the protective barrier grew brighter in the growing darkness.

A rake of Ares’ claws along the gryphon rendered its wings useless. As it fell from the sky, its cries rattled the mountains. It was disorienting enough that Ares did not focus back on the other gryphon until it was too late. As if time had stopped, I watched, frozen, as the gryphon launched itself at Ares’ back and ripped his wings to shreds in the same fashion Ares had done to his companion. Ares’s roar of anguish struck a chord deep in my soul. Still in my wolf form, I scrambled to the top of the boulder, and I launched myself into the air.

Author Bio:

K. Rea is a part-time romance writer and full-time mom. When she isn't writing or playing with her daughter, she's reading and crafting. She lives with her husband and family in Florida.

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Tuesday, July 27, 2021

BOOK BLITZ: Wrath by Marteeka Karland #GIVEAWAY

 

Wrath
Marteeka Karland
(Black Reign MC, #2)
Publication date: July 23rd 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Wrath: When El Diablo sends me to infiltrate the DA’s office and find out who’s involved in the corruption there, I’m all over it. Being a lawyer, I’m singularly suited to El Diablo’s purpose, and I know the system inside and out. I am also adept at blending in, even with my muscles and tatts. We’ve known since Justice from Salvation’s Bane took a prison sentence he didn’t deserve that someone from the DA’s office was in the back pocket of the wrong people. Those wrong people are in the form of a rival MC who rule their territory with an iron fist and are trying to encroach on Salvation’s Bane as well as Black Reign.

Then I meet a sexy little platinum-haired escort and all bets are off. I’m attracted to her like I’ve never been to another woman, and it’s messing with the Zen-like calm I’m famous for. If I can’t pull myself together enough to complete this job, I’ll fail my club and, more importantly, my mentor, the club president, El Diablo. That’s something even this unholy attraction can’t cause. But what’s a man to do when all that stands in the way of the happiness of a sexy single mom and her feisty but vulnerable daughter is club business, and a few Saint Bernard puppies?

Celeste: I’m in a financial jam of the worst kind. I need to make enough money to pay for my daughter Holly’s medical bills. The sheer volume of money I need is overwhelming. Working doesn’t touch it, and no one wants to hire me full-time because of the cost of insurance. The only way to finish Holly’s leukemia treatments is for me to keep up the payments to the hospital and clinic. If I can’t, then Holly’s chances of remission may only be a lost dream. Out of options, I accept an offer to be an escort. Not only that, but I soon find myself working for a motorcycle club as a “cam girl,” doing live sex shows. Glamorous? Not at all. But it’s more money than I can make working three jobs. Imagine my surprise when the man who paid for my services as an escort turns up in the control room of my first cam show. He’s sexy as sin, and much more than he appears to be. He’s also got me completely under his spell. Which sucks because he’s quite possibly the rudest jackass I’ve ever had the displeasure of meeting.

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EXCERPT:

“Well, my friend,” Gray continued. “If you want to make money, I guarantee you, you’ve come to the right place. Lawson, Hughsman, and Gray can make you a lot of money.” He emphasized “a lot” and gave me a knowing look. “With money comes power. With power comes perks.” He gestured toward a long table with pretty much any kind of quality drug or liquor a man could want. There were Cuban cigars, Legacy rum, some kind of expensive absinthe, and, of course, heroin, cocaine, and various other mind-altering substances.

As if that whole line had been a setup, a door opened just beyond the well-stocked table and several very beautiful, very sophisticated women entered. “See what I mean?” Gray looked positively gleeful, actually rubbing his hands together as he eyed each woman like a kid in a candy store. “Yours to enjoy, Vincent. Take your pick. There’s nothing they won’t do. Live out your nastiest fantasies with as many of them as you like for as long as you like.” He clapped my shoulder. “These are just a very few of the perks you can enjoy as one of us.”

Normally, I’d have smiled politely and passed, but one woman caught my eye in a huge way. She was ethereal in her beauty. Long, platinum-blonde hair, flawlessly pale skin. She’d dressed in red, naturally. Some skimpy little number I couldn’t even register. All I saw was the woman. Short and slight, she had rounded hips but was very slender. Her legs were perfectly formed. Just the right amount of muscle to grip a man tight during sex. She looked out of place among the other women. It wasn’t something I could put my finger on, but she just didn’t fit.

Nervous. She looked nervous. Where the other women smiled and sought out a partner, this girl seemed unsure of herself. She smiled politely when she had to, but she didn’t have that shark-like quality the others did. If she was looking for the wealthiest man of the bunch — and when did an escort not do that? — she wasn’t doing a good job. In fact, she seemed to avoid eye contact whenever she could. Lord knew more than one of the men in the room tried to get her attention. She was easily the most beautiful woman in that room. Instead, she wandered around, looking at the artwork on the walls. She avoided the table with the alcohol and drugs.

My very first thought the second I could see her from head to toe was that if I fucked her the way I wanted, I might break her delicate frame. My next thought was, “I can be gentle.” It was a Goddamned lie, but I told myself that anyway.

“Ahh, I see one of them has caught your eye? Which one?”

I glanced at Gray, standing next to me. He leaned forward in anticipation. Did he have his eye on the little blonde, too? “Where do you get these girls?” I knew, of course, but I wanted to hear what he had to say.

He shrugged. “Most are from a high-end escort service out of Miami. One or two are local, I think. All of them were vetted and screened medically. All disease-free and with an IUD, verified by our physician.”

I gulped down the rest of the scotch in the lowball glass I held. Without saying anything else to Gray, I approached the young woman before anyone else had a chance.

“Come with me.” I wasn’t big on words and, really, if she was a paid escort there was no need for them.

Her eyes widened, and there was the slightest quiver to her bottom lip before she lowered her eyes and ducked her head slightly. Hmm… A little more demure than I’d like, but I could work with it. I took her hand, and I’ll be Goddamned if she didn’t tremble. My gaze snapped to hers.

“You OK?” I was a bastard, and I wanted this girl, but the farther away we got from the other women with their cloying perfumes and the more her unique clean, fresh scent wrapped itself around me, the more she wrapped herself around my insides. It was like discovering a new life form. I was eager, excited, and just plain in awe of her. She looked like a fuckin’ angel.

“Of course,” she said softly. “Where are we going?”

“To be alone,” I said gruffly, my grip on her hand tightening.

Author Bio:

Romance author by night, emergency room tech/clerk by day, Marteeka Karland works really hard to drive everyone in her life completely and totally nuts. She has been creating stories from her warped imagination since she was in the third grade. Her love of writing blossomed throughout her teenage years until it developed into the totally unorthodox and irreverent style her English teachers tried so hard to rid her of. Now, she breathes life into faeries, space hunters, werewolves, vampires, shapeshifters, and a few just plane ole ordinary people. She loves to see the awkward, self-conscious band geek get the captain of the football team and make him beg for it.

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Monday, July 26, 2021

BOOK BLITZ: All I've Wanted All I've Needed by A.E. Valdez #GIVEAWAY

All I’ve Wanted All I’ve Needed
A.E. Valdez
Publication date: July 23rd 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Harlow Shaw feels naïve for believing in happily ever afters but she craves a love that lights her up.

She thought she had it all with her boyfriend. Until his promising baseball career overshadows their relationship and he asks her a life changing question. It causes her to wonder if what they have is all she ever truly wanted.

Harlow is yearning for more than the curated life she is living.

A trip to Bali, a move to Seattle, and a “burned” cup of coffee lead her to a friendship she didn’t know she needed and a love so deep she can feel it in her bones.

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EXCERPT:

Harlow

I should’ve known something was up when a race red Ferrari pulled up to my house. Hendrix has always been flashy, from his material items to his personality. He commands the spaces he occupies. Hendrix is a man used to going after, and getting, anything and anyone he wants.

Except me. I’m the girl to tell him, “No.”

My response stuns him, and he asks, “It’s a no then?”

Slowly, he rises from the kneeling position he adopted mere seconds ago to ask me this life changing question.

“You deserve better than me,” I say as tears sting my eyes. I’m aware people are staring now. I thought we were in for an intimate night, sitting at a candle-lit table scattered with rose petals, tucked away at the back of the restaurant. But there’s nothing intimate about prying eyes focused on us, watching me refuse my boyfriend’s proposal.

He sits back down in his seat and reaches across the table for my hand. “You’re my beginning and end, Harlow. All I want is you.”

I can’t bring myself to meet his gaze. Staring into his honey brown eyes will only make this harder.

He watches me in silence, probably trying to figure out why I would say no to his proposal. We’ve been together for two years and things were going great. We’re often the couple people describe as “relationship goals.” But despite seeming picture perfect, I can’t shake the feeling that this isn’t lasting love.

“Don’t you ever feel like we’re just settling, Hendrix? As though we’re together because we’re comfortable, not because we’re in love with one another?” My eyes still haven’t met his. I didn’t want to have to sift through this with him tonight. I hadn’t expected him to propose to me. I for damn sure didn’t expect him to do it in a public place.

Still not letting go of my hand, he asks, “Are you saying you’re no longer in love with me?”


Author Bio:

A.E. Valdez discovered her passion for writing when she was given a journal by her 5th grade teacher and has been creating poetry, works of fiction, and gaming narratives ever since. As a child, she wanted to read more stories with people that looked like her.

She loves all things romance, from heartbreak to happily ever afters. She pours her own heart and soul into the stories she brings to life. Causing readers to fall in, and sometimes out, of love alongside her characters.

Amanda currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and their two sons. Most days you can find her sipping on an iced latte while she writes or enjoying time with her family.

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