Debra L. Martin's Blog, page 63

Interview with Amanda McKinney, JAGGER

Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series?
The Steele Shadows series was an unplanned spin-off from the Berry Springs Series. I like to think of it as Berry Springs’ steamer, darker, grittier, bad-boy brother. The series was created when I finally submitted to the unrelenting voice in my head telling me to write something more intense, more emotional, and more alpha. With blind faith, I wrote Cabin 1, which became my first #1 bestseller. The character in Jagger (Steele Shadows Investigations) is introduced in Cabin 1 and carried throughout the series. Jagger is a sexy, small-town murder mystery about two very different strangers—former Navy SEAL turned homicide detective, and the quiet, mysterious Sunny Harper—who come together to solve a murder, not realizing they are about to engage in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a ruthless killer. It’s got it all—hot romance, murder, mystery, and even a bit of small-town folklore and witchery!
Do you have a favorite character?
Sunny, hands-down. I’d have her give me target-shooting and Krav Maga lessons, then we’d settle in on her dock with a bottle of vodka and gluten free pizza.
Are you currently under a traditional publishing contract for future books or do you have manuscripts that you will self-publish? Are you doing both?
My first book, Lethal Legacy, was traditionally published. All others are self-published. For a control freak like myself, I couldn’t ignore the pull of being able to control every aspect of my story and career. I was made for self-publishing.
What is your writing process? Do you listen to music or do you like silence?
I’m someone who loves schedules, plans, and consistency. Spontaneity scares the crap out of me. So I keep myself on a tight schedule packed with deadlines. I write every day, no matter what. I find that this helps keep the same tone through the book, and keeps my creative juices flowing. There’s nothing more frustrating than opening my computer and staring at the screen for thirty minutes trying to figure out what my next word should be. Writing every day helps to avoid that. I also have a daily word goal, and I’m pretty hard-core about meeting it. I’ve been known to set my alarm for 3 a.m. to get in some writing time before the kids wake. Thanks to this restless nature, I can usually write book a book in a few months.
Do you outline your story or just go where your muse takes you?
When I begin a new project, the first thing I do is write a detailed outline—bulleted, of course. Although the story develops as I go, I try to stick to that outline as much as possible. I’ve realized that if I don’t, the story becomes scattered, filled with major plot holes. And no one likes a massive plot hole.
Did you hire an editor to review your manuscript before publishing?
Absolutely. My book goes through two editors, then a group of Beta readers, and one last final read-through by myself before getting published. And even then, the occasional typo or plot misstep sneaks through! It’s something I’ve had to accept as real life. I fix it and move on.
Besides Amazon, are there any other sites where your books are for sale?
My books are currently exclusive to Amazon. I’ve expanded into audiobooks this year and am very excited about that! You can get them at Amazon, Audible, and iTunes.
Do you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book and writing your next book?
I’m not going to lie – it’s tough, especially as my career grows, which I’m very thankful for. I never really understood when someone asked for more hours in the day. I do now. The marketing, social media, and business management part to being a self-published author is as time consuming as writing the book itself. Then, there are the kiddos, the husband, the house, the chores, errands, meals, laundry, prek activities, my own self-care (daily workouts to keep me sane, and that whole showering thing, etc), the list goes on. Phew! Luckily, I’m someone who does well with a lot on their plate, but I couldn’t do it all if I didn’t love my day job. I wake up excited to get to work. What a blessing! I never take that for granted.
What advice would you give a new author just entering into the self-publishing arena?
My advice is WRITE THE FREAKING BOOK. That doesn’t cost a penny! Get your story out on paper, or Word, whatever. Then, focus on everything else. Start by doing your research. Educate yourself. There are countless blogs and advice columns about how to put out a book on a shoestring budget. I did. Spend your money on a good editor and proofreader, then focus on social media (free!), and build from there. Marketing and advertising is essential, but as with any new business, you have to start somewhere. I strongly recommend Vellum to format your books. It’s a one-time fee and replaces the hefty cost that formatters charge. I could go on about this topic forever, but I’ll close with this: The most valuable thing I contributed to my business was not money, it was my tireless determination to make it work.
What’s next for you?
2020 is going to be a big year for the McKinney Machine! I’m continuing Steel Shadows Investigations with Jagger’s brother’s story, Ryder, coming this fall. I am so excited to continue these character’s stories! The books will have everything you’d expect in a McKinney novel—hot romance, alpha males, strong females, fast-paced suspense and mystery, but will be standalone novels. No cliffhangers! The best way to keep up to date on my new releases is to sign up for my newsletter on my website.


Jagger: Steele Shadows Investigations
Amanda McKinney
Publication date: June 18th 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Secrets, lies, deceit… A former Navy SEAL turned homicide detective has met his match in this new *standalone* addition to the number #1 Bestselling Steele Shadows Series…

He found her covered in blood.
She promises she’s innocent.
The question is… Can he trust her?

Feared just as much on the streets as at a crime scene, Homicide Detective Max Jagger has dedicated his life to one thing—speaking for the dead. Everyone and everything else be damned, including his own demons. During one of the most oppressive heat waves to hit the small, southern town of Berry Springs, the former Navy SEAL is called to a scene where a real estate heiress is found standing over a dead body, holding the murder weapon. The local cops immediately dub it a slam-dunk case, but if Jagg has learned anything from his days running special ops, it’s that nothing is as it seems… including this suspect.

Despite her name, Sunny Harper is as beguiling as a fallen angel. Clever, cunning, completely unwilling to cooperate, and, perhaps his least favorite quality—mind-numbingly intoxicating. When evidence from the scene suggests an accomplice, Jagg begins to believe that Sunny is both innocent and in danger, despite the towns’ uproar to lock her up. Torn between his growing feelings for his suspect, he takes Sunny to a secluded lake house where he discovers there’s much more behind those enchanting green eyes… including secrets that could take them both under.

With his career on the line and the clock ticking, Jagg must decide if he can trust Sunny… before they both get burned.

Goodreads / Amazon

Author Bio:
Amanda McKinney is the #1 bestselling and multi-award-winning author of more than ten steamy romantic suspense and mystery novels. She wrote her debut novel, LETHAL LEGACY, in 2017 after walking away from her career to become a writer and stay-at-home mom.

Set in small, southern towns, Amanda’s books are page-turning murder mysteries packed with steamy romance. Her books include the HOT new bestselling series, STEELE SHADOWS SECURITY, the multi-award-winning BERRY SPRINGS series and BLACK ROSE MYSTERIES.

Text AMANDABOOKS to 66866 to receive Amanda’s newsletter and get the latest on new releases, promos, and freebies.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Bookbub

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#SALE .99 LOVE & KISSES ROMANCE COLLECTION by Debra Elizabeth

ON SALE FOR ONLY .99Amazon link:
 
https://www.amazon.com/Kisses-Romance...
5 Sweet Romances - Fall in love with *swoon-worthy* heroes in this collection of short stories and novellas.

AN UNEXPECTED LOVE
Dianna Regent thought she was living a charmed life with her boyfriend of seven years. That is, until he walked out of her life without a backward glance. Nursing her wounds, she goes on vacation to St. Thomas, hoping to heal her broken heart. Ian Waters has never been in love. When a favor for a friend takes him to St. Thomas, the last thing he thinks about is finding the woman of his dreams. Can these two fragile souls come together to find their own happily ever after?

LOVE BY CHANCE
When Alysa Stevens receives an invitation to attend the social event of the season, a Masquerade Ball, she thinks it's the perfect time to finally kick back and enjoy herself. After all, no one knows who she really is. The invitation came to her business persona, Mr. Al Richardson, but is that ploy about to backfire? At the ball, she's immediately swept off her feet by a sexy stranger dressed as the Musketeer d'Artagnan. He sets her heart on fire, but he leaves abruptly without ever revealing his name. Will Alysa be able to track down the most handsome man she's ever met without a single clue to his identity?

SUMMER OF LOVE
June 25 was supposed to be the best day of Jessica Blackstone's life, but a family accident sends her perfect life into a tailspin. Trying to cope with the tragedy, she retreats to the family beach cottage for some much needed solace. John Smith has been burnt by love, and is not interested in another relationship, that is, until he meets the beautiful and fragile Jessica. Can these two lost souls find love and heal their fractured hearts?

SECOND CHANCES: An Over 40 Romance
Caroline Fleming had a perfect life--a loving husband, 2 great kids, a beautiful mansion to live in--or so she thought. When her husband of 20-plus years announces he wants a divorce, Caroline's perfect world crumbles in an instant. She retreats to the beach house to clear her head. She swears off men, that is, until she meets a sexy stranger running on the beach.

Matt Sylvan was left at the altar 5 years ago and has no intention to marry. He's satisfied with his life as a photographer and saves all his love and attention for his two dogs, Jake and Cooper. While running on the beach one evening, Jake jumps on a beautiful woman and Matt begins to rethink his aversion to dating.

Can these two souls find a second chance at love and heal their broken hearts?

WAITING FOR LOVE
Shelley Morrison loves her life as a single working woman, but has no one to share it with. She left her heart back in high school—with the captain of the football team. Scott Harris was living the dream as an NFL player until an injury ended his career. A chance meeting with Shelly—a girl from high school who'd never bought into the hero worship thing—may be just what he needs, but can she accept the man he is today?


Reviewer comments:

5 stars -
My favorite thing to do is sit with a hot cup of tea and READ. Love and Kisses Romance Collection offered me 5 love stories and I enjoyed them all. The characters feel real... like people I could have as friends. Amazon customer

5 stars - 
I loved every moment of these stories. They made me wish there was more to all of them! Keep up the great work. Amazon customer



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#Review: HOW TO STEAL A THIEF'S HEART by Bree Wolf

5 of 5 stars  Miss Caroline Hawkins has developed a wall flower persona in order to appeal to the ladies of the ton for donations for her orphanage. If she remains invisible with her dour dresses and oversized spectacles, she doesn't draw the attention of any gentleman seeking her hand in marriage. She relishes her independence until Pierce Byrne, Baron Markham, *sees* beyond her wall flower identity. Pierce has his own secrets, but Caroline intrigues him from the beginning. The more he learns about her, the more he craves her company. Can they both open up about their secrets and let their attraction to each other bloom?
Ms. Wolf has woven a delightful and intriguing story. I really enjoyed both Caroline and Pierce's characters especially their passion for helping those less fortunate in society. It was interesting to see how they revealed the villain especially when the villain almost turned it around to accuse Pierce of theft. The pages flew by as I was captivated by the story.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.

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#Excerpt: HUNTER by A.M. Salinger

Hunter
A.M. Salinger
Publication date: June 22nd 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance

Can a business rival bring one of Twilight Falls’ most notorious bad boys to his knees?

Twilight Falls’ resident bad boy Hunter Thomson knows he hasn’t quite lived up to his reputation of late and is determined to have some fun while on a rare night out in L.A. But after a torrid encounter with a captivating stranger results in one of the best sexual experiences of his life, Hunter flees to his hometown, scared by his intense feelings and convinced he is about to commit the same mistake he once made in the past.

Theo Miller can’t get the gorgeous man he hooked up with one night in L.A. out of his mind. When he moves to Twilight Falls for the opening of his new store, he is shocked to discover than his business rival is none other than the stranger who ran away from him and their fiery connection.

Sparks fly as the two men engage in a game of cat and mouse. But when an accident makes Theo dependent on Hunter, the game becomes something neither men could have anticipated.

Will Hunter finally overcome his deep-seated fears and succumb to Theo’s passionate attention? And can Theo win the heart of the one man he wants to belong to?

Join Hunter and Theo in this hot and sweet third installment in Twilight Falls, the new series by the author of the bestselling, contemporary romance series Nights.

Goodreads / Amazon—
EXCERPT:The music thumped in Hunter Thomson’s ears and throbbed pleasantly against his skin. He drummed a hand lightly against his arm as he waited for his order, his fingers matching the beat of the pop song blaring from the club’s speakers. He flashed a smile at the girl who brought him his beer, turned, and leaned his back against the bar.His gaze roamed the dance floor a few feet from where he stood. It was packed with hot, writhing men. A dry smile curved his lips as he brought the bottle to his mouth and took a sip of the cold beverage.Well, hot writhing men is what I came here for.His eyes found the couple on the far left of the sunken stage. Hunter’s smile turned into a full-blown grin.Irritation danced briefly on Tristan Hart’s face when he met Hunter’s amused stare. The man working up a sweat against Tristan seemed oblivious to their exchange; Dan Flynn was already on his fourth drink and focused on his mission for the night. Which was apparently to get in Tristan’s pants and ride him till the cows came home.Hunter could tell from the subtle way Tristan was avoiding full body contact with Dan that he wasn’t interested. He knew Tristan would never have accepted Dan’s invitation had he known the guy would start hitting on him the moment they walked through the doors of the hottest new gay club in L.A. The fact that Dan had told him to bring a friend to the opening night had evidently lured Tristan into thinking his client wasn’t interested in him.Hunter could hardly blame the poor man.With his quiet brown eyes, rugged good looks, and muscular, tattooed body, Tristan was a picture of understated masculinity. Not only was he hot, his ability to fix any motorbike and sports cars that landed in his garage made him one of the most sought-after mechanics in the state. It also regularly brought a line of men and women to his door who wanted to get his hands on more than just their hoods.All evidence pointed to the fact that Tristan’s latest client was one such man. Unfortunately for Dan, the sexy mechanic made it a rule never to mix business with pleasure.Had Hunter not known Tristan since they were practically in diapers, he might have been tempted to have a taste of the guy himself.Except we’re both tops, so that would definitely not have worked out.Hunter let his gaze wander over the crowded club. It wasn’t everyday he came to L.A. for a night on the town and he was determined to make the most of it.Having two of his close friends recently get shacked up had made him antsy. It had also been a few months since he’d hooked up with anyone and he very much wanted to come somewhere other than his own hand tonight.Besides, I have a reputation to keep up. I can’t be Twilight Falls’ most notorious bad boy when I haven’t seen any action other than my own fingers lately. A man caught Hunter’s interest a moment later. Blond, blue eyes. A body that showed he liked to work out. The stranger’s mouth curved up as he studied Hunter from where he stood amidst a large group, his expression telling Hunter he liked what he was seeing too. Hunter’s lips tilted in an answering smile.Someone stepped in his line of sight.Hunter shifted to try and catch the blond’s attention. The man blocking his view moved too.Irritation darted through Hunter.The guy looming over him was wearing neatly pressed cream chinos, a navy shirt with a red-rimmed collar that matched his two tone dress shoes, and a dark blue blazer. The top three buttons of the shirt were open, exposing an expanse of toned, tanned flesh.“Can I get through?”Hunter blinked.The man’s voice was like whisky poured over rough velvet.He looked up and met a pair of arresting hazel eyes set in a chiseled face blessed by the gods.The man arched an elegant eyebrow, his expression patient and seemingly heedless of the interested stares he was drawing. He had a good couple of inches on Hunter’s own six foot-two.“The bar?” the stranger added slowly, as if addressing a dimwit.Hunter flushed and stepped away from the counter. “Er, sure.”The man’s cologne filled Hunter’s nose as he slipped past and took his place. He smelled of pine and evergreens, like the forests of Twilight Falls.Hunter stared at the stranger’s wide back. It was clear from his charismatic appearance and expensive clothes that he was loaded.A hand landed on Hunter’s shoulder, startling him. He looked around.It was the blond he’d been eyeing up.“Hey,” the guy said warmly.“Hey, yourself,” Hunter replied with a smile, firmly squashing his burgeoning interest for the man at the bar.He’s not my type, anyway.The blond indicated the sunken stage. “Wanna dance?”A teasing grin lit up Hunter’s. “I gotta warn you. I have killer moves. Think you can keep up?”The blond chuckled. He leaned in and whispered hotly in Hunter’s left ear.“I’ve got some killer moves on my own.”Hunter’s dick perked with interest as the blond’s breath washed across his skin. The guy took his hand and led him to the dance floor.Three songs and another beer later and Hunter was feeling buzzed. He and the blond had definite sexual chemistry; he could tell he would be coming in the guy’s hand, mouth, or ass tonight.“Wanna go somewhere quieter?”Hunter followed the blond’s gaze.He was looking at a dimly-lit corridor leading to the restrooms.Hunter masked a frown. He’d hoped they’d be going back to the hotel he and Tristan had booked for the night. A quickie in a public toilet wasn’t really his thing.“It’s not what you’re thinking,” the blond said mysteriously, as if he’d guessed Hunter’s thoughts.Hunter arched an eyebrow. “It’s not?”The blond grabbed his arm. “Come on.”Hunter scanned the club for Tristan as he headed for the restrooms with the blond. He found his best friend with his inebriated client at the bar on the other side of the floor.Tristan caught his eyes. “Everything okay?” he mouthed.Hunter nodded and gave him a reassuring wave.The club’s washrooms were stark and clean. They were also thankfully empty bar a handful of men.One of them was the blond’s friend, a guy with dark hair and eyes.“You brought him,” the man said with a grin.A sinking feeling blossomed in the pit of Hunter’s stomach at his expression.“What’s going on?” Hunter asked the blond guardedly.Blondie smiled at him, his face relaxed despite Hunter’s cool tone.“We thought you’d be a good fit for us.”Hunter suppressed a grimace. Great. He studied the dark-haired guy. “Are you his partner?”“I am.”“I’m sorry, but I’m not into threesomes,” Hunter said gruffly.Blondie trailed a teasing hand down Hunter’s chest all the way to the buckle of his jeans and beyond. “Are you sure? ‘Cause you look pretty turned on to me.”Hunter grabbed Blondie’s wrist as he stroked his way back up his erection.“I was, when I thought it’d be just you.”The door to the restrooms opened. Hunter swallowed a curse when he saw the guy who entered.It was Hazel Eyes from the bar.The man stopped and looked at them curiously. “Am I interrupting?”Hunter recovered his senses first. “No, you aren’t.” He turned to Blondie and his partner. “Like I said, I’m not interested.”Blondie pouted. “That’s a shame. I was really looking forward to having a sex sandwich with you.”Hunter stared, not certain he’d heard right. “Excuse me?”Hazel Eyes turned away and started washing his hands at the sink, but not before Hunter caught the sparkle of amusement in his gaze.“You know, where one of us fucks your mouth while the other pounds your ass,” Blondie explained blithely.Hunter’s jaw dropped open. He caught a glimpse of Hazel Eyes’s reflection in the mirror above the row of sinks. The guy’s lips were pinched tight and his shoulders were shaking slightly. Outrage shot through Hunter.Is that asshole laughing at me?!“I’m sorry to disappoint you,” he told Blondie and his partner icily once he’d regained his composure, “again. But I’m a top, so nobody is going anywhere near my ass.”Blondie’s eyes widened. “Oh, wow.” He paused, a moue twisting his mouth. “Are you sure? ‘Cause you kinda give off a bottom feel.”“Positive,” Hunter growled.“Oh well, your loss, I suppose,” Blondie murmured. “Come on, Jeff, let’s get out of here.”Hunter watched wordlessly as the pair exited the restrooms. He blew out a sigh, raked a hand through his hair, and headed for the door.“You sure you should be going out like that?”

Author Bio:
Ava Marie Salinger is the pen name of an Amazon bestselling author who has always wanted to write scorching hot contemporary romance. In 2018, she finally decided to venture to the steamy side. NIGHTS is the first of several sizzling series featuring sweet, sexy men with dark pasts and a whole lot of love to give to the ones brave enough to fight for their hearts. When she’s not dreaming up hotties to write about, you’ll find Ava creating kickass music playlists to write to, spying on the wildlife in her garden, drooling over gadgets, and eating Chinese.

Want to be the first to know about Ava’s new releases and get access to exclusive content, sneak previews, sales, and giveaways? Then sign up to her Reader Group here and join her VIP Facebook Fan Group here.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Bookbub / Pinterest / Amazon / Book and Main Bites

GIVEAWAY!
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#Spotlight: THE CHALICE AND THE CROWN by Kassandra Flamouri

The Chalice and the Crown by Kassandra Flamouri Genre: YA Fantasy 
Driven, talented, and determined to live up to her family's fame, Sasha Nikolayeva is ballet’s crown princess. But just when Sasha lands her most prestigious role yet, she falls prey to a host of disturbing neurological symptoms that threaten to end her career and her very life. As her mind and body deteriorate, Sasha spirals into a nightmare world where beauty and cruelty exist in the same breath and villains rule from the shadows.
In the glittering, sharp-edged City of Roses, Sasha is no princess. She’s a thrall, a slave. Thousands like her suffer in cursed silence while citizens enjoy the splendor of the City, blissfully unaware that their servants are anything more than living dolls enchanted to do their bidding. But the City's slavers know the truth, and they are always watching. One misstep could cost Sasha her life—or her soul.
Even as she endures the violence and indignity of captivity, Sasha can't help being drawn to the beauty of her nightmare world and the underground rebels who offer her friendship, shelter, even love. Before Sasha can break her chains for good, she'll need choose between the life waiting for her at home and the countless lives she could save if she stays. To choose a nightmare over her real life, her future, would be madness...but maybe a little madness is just what it takes to change the fate of a city built on lies. 
Dreams and reality perform a captivating pas de deux in this tale of legacy and longing. A lyrical and original fantasy that, like its heroine, has the soul of a dancer. 
- Adi Rule, author of STRANGE SWEET SONG 
Goodreads * Amazon

In retrospect, I probably should have realized a lot earlier that I was meant to be a writer. Even as early as kindergarten, I struggled to pay attention in class because the outside world was just not as interesting as what was going on in my head. By that time, I had already made my storytelling debut ("Squirm the Worm," delivered at age three) and had spent countless hours playing make-believe with my 284 stuffed animals, every one of whom had a name and detailed backstory.
Though I quickly learned to pay attention (or at least look like I was paying attention) during school hours, I retained a tendency to daydream and a love of stories. When I left high school to attend the Sunderman Conservatory at Gettysburg College, I learned to translate both emotional and programatic content into music. Now, as an exam prep and college essay tutor, I have the time and flexibility to really dig into fiction again. My work has appeared online and in print in such venues as Timeless Tales Magazine and Quantum Fairy Tales. 
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#SALE.99 LOVE & KISSES ROMANCE COLLECTION by Debra Elizabeth

5 Sweet Romances - Fall in love with *swoon-worthy* heroes in this collection of short stories and novellas.
Amazon link: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014GAVMGK

AN UNEXPECTED LOVE
Dianna Regent thought she was living a charmed life with her boyfriend of seven years. That is, until he walked out of her life without a backward glance. Nursing her wounds, she goes on vacation to St. Thomas, hoping to heal her broken heart. Ian Waters has never been in love. When a favor for a friend takes him to St. Thomas, the last thing he thinks about is finding the woman of his dreams. Can these two fragile souls come together to find their own happily ever after?

LOVE BY CHANCE
When Alysa Stevens receives an invitation to attend the social event of the season, a Masquerade Ball, she thinks it's the perfect time to finally kick back and enjoy herself. After all, no one knows who she really is. The invitation came to her business persona, Mr. Al Richardson, but is that ploy about to backfire? At the ball, she's immediately swept off her feet by a sexy stranger dressed as the Musketeer d'Artagnan. He sets her heart on fire, but he leaves abruptly without ever revealing his name. Will Alysa be able to track down the most handsome man she's ever met without a single clue to his identity?

SUMMER OF LOVE
June 25 was supposed to be the best day of Jessica Blackstone's life, but a family accident sends her perfect life into a tailspin. Trying to cope with the tragedy, she retreats to the family beach cottage for some much needed solace. John Smith has been burnt by love, and is not interested in another relationship, that is, until he meets the beautiful and fragile Jessica. Can these two lost souls find love and heal their fractured hearts?

SECOND CHANCES: An Over 40 Romance
Caroline Fleming had a perfect life--a loving husband, 2 great kids, a beautiful mansion to live in--or so she thought. When her husband of 20-plus years announces he wants a divorce, Caroline's perfect world crumbles in an instant. She retreats to the beach house to clear her head. She swears off men, that is, until she meets a sexy stranger running on the beach.

Matt Sylvan was left at the altar 5 years ago and has no intention to marry. He's satisfied with his life as a photographer and saves all his love and attention for his two dogs, Jake and Cooper. While running on the beach one evening, Jake jumps on a beautiful woman and Matt begins to rethink his aversion to dating.

Can these two souls find a second chance at love and heal their broken hearts?

WAITING FOR LOVE
Shelley Morrison loves her life as a single working woman, but has no one to share it with. She left her heart back in high school--with the captain of the football team. Scott Harris was living the dream as an NFL player until an injury ended his career. A chance meeting with Shelly--a girl from high school who'd never bought into the hero worship thing--may be just what he needs, but can she accept the man he is today?
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#Excerpt: TASTE MY WRATH by Debbie Cassidy

Taste My Wrath
Debbie Cassidy
(The Iron Fae #1)
Publication date: June 18th 2020
Genres: Adult, Urban Fantasy

A dead earth, a handful of survivors, and a game that could wipe out humanity.

I was one of the few humans to be saved by the shining ones. Powerful beings who came from the stars just in time to stop the annihilation of mankind.
But they’ve been here before.

Earth was once their home and humanity has another name for them. Fae.
Now we live in iron cities paying for haven as workers and conscripted warriors.
We owe them after all.
Until they ask too much.

The Regency Tournament is about to begin. A test of prowess for the shining ones to determine which House will rule their people for the next century.

And we humans? We’re the prey.
But I didn’t survive earths almost destruction to be hunted like a beast.

If I’m going to go down, then I’ll be taking these pointy eared wankers with me.
And I have an advantage. A shadow companion—protective but tough. My mentor has trained me in the art of survival. With his smooth dulcet tones in my head, and his shadowy form at my back, I’ll no longer be prey.

And when I hunt the shining ones, they won’t even see me coming.

An Urban Fantasy Romance adventure. Experience the magic of the Fae set against a Post-Apocalyptic back drop in a dystopian world.

Goodreads / Amazon—

Author Bio:
Debbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden.

Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head - in a totally non psychotic way of course. She writes Urban Fantasy, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.

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#Excerpt: STORM CALLED by Susan Copperfield

Storm Called
Susan Copperfield
(Royal States #1)
Publication date: February 26th 2019
Genres: Adult, Urban Fantasy

In the Royal States of America, magic rules all, but life—and love—always finds a way.

Latent horse empath. Dishwasher. Closet chef.
Future king.

When food poisoning sweeps through Dallas, Patrick Laycal doesn’t expect a princess to show up at his door asking for his help.
Her one, simple request dumps him in the middle of a Royal mess—one that could cost him far more than just his life.

Storm Called features characters first introduced in Null & Void, the first of the Royal States novels.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play—
EXCERPT:It was shit luck I was on shift the day the Texan Royals decided they had a hankering for overcooked fries and burgers so sopping with grease I wouldn’t have fed them to a pig. I was fortunate; I washed dishes, so I wouldn’t meet any of them, not in my worn jeans and flannel shirt. They wouldn’t even know I existed, and I liked it that way.
The rest of the staff faced off against the king and queen of Texas, who were rumored to be volatile on a good day.
I didn’t want to learn what it was like to be struck by lightning. I also didn’t want to find out if they really made low-talent freaks with horse affinities, like me, disappear. My talent had been registered early, at age eight, but it had refused to develop into anything worthwhile, which came as no surprise to me.
My parents couldn’t afford a horse. I couldn’t afford the college I attended, let alone a horse. I’d heard the same story all my life: talents needed to be used to develop.
I wasn’t a null, but I’d never grow beyond my current caste. I could live with that. As long as I didn’t mind washing dishes for the rest of my life, I’d always be able to find a job. If push came to shove, I could join the family trade. Everyone needed a janitor. My mother even enjoyed working as a maid.
She believed a clean home was a happy home.
“Pat,” my boss bellowed.
Jerking my head up, I turned away from my work to face him. “Sir?”
“Take twenty for dinner.”
The next time I searched for work, I’d make certain I got a proper thirty-minute break—and I’d remember to pack my lunch every single day on the off-chance royalty might show up wanting bad food for dinner. With the kitchen already in a state of chaos from the unexpected guests, there’d be no leftovers for the staff, leaving me to make the hike down the street to grab something at the convenience store to take the edge off. For a rare change, I appreciated my high odds of food poisoning.
To dodge the royals, I left out the back door, navigated around the garbage littering the alley, and made my escape to the main street. Two minutes later, I reached my destination.
It, too, had a royal infestation, and the Crowned Heir of Texas glared at a bag of chips. Had I been the subject of her scrutiny, I would’ve run for the hills without looking back. Looking back lost races when every second mattered. In the news, the blonde-haired woman scowled often. I couldn’t tell if the lack of selection or indecisiveness bothered her.
It didn’t matter. A smart man avoided trouble, so I headed for the refrigerated shelves to pick a sandwich and roll the dice. Movement in the corner of my eye startled me from my search.
The Texan princess stalked me, her expression one of unwavering determination. “Excuse me?”
“What ya need?” I blurted, and my face grew hot as my accent betrayed me as someone from a lower caste.
She either didn’t notice or care. “What’s good here?”
I frowned, considering the selection of sandwiches. To my dismay, only one lacked eggs or mayonnaise, the top culprits of unexpected digestive distress following the poor choice of acquiring dinner from a convenience store. I grabbed the pulled pork sandwich from the shelf and offered it to her. “If by good you mean edible, your best bet is to take one labelled as made today and hope for the best. This is the one you want.”
I picked the second-best option, and while labelled as from today, it doubled down on the eggs and mayo with some cheese and questionable chunks of chicken. By the end of my shift, I’d regret having eaten anything. I nodded in an effort to be polite and fled while I could. To escape faster, I left the cashier my change to avoid humiliating myself in front of Princess Jessica Dunhaven, the future queen of Texas.


 Author Bio:

Susan Copperfield is the royal romance, urban fantasy loving alter ego of award-winning & USA Today bestselling novelist RJ Blain.

Under the super not-so-secret identity of Susan, the Royal States of America is explored, where the work of sixteen founding royal families preserved the United States from destruction and civil war when magic swept over the world.

In the Royal States, life, love, and magic always finds a way.

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#NEW Release: THE DUKE'S FORBIDDEN LOVE by Debra Elizabeth

Blurb:
Miss Amelia Beckwith should be over the moon with happiness when the Earl of Lincoln proposes. Unfortunately, the handsome earl is not who he appears to be in public.  She is desperate to escape Lincoln’s cruelty and has only one option left to leave the nightmare behind—RUN.
Racing back to his estate during a horrific thunderstorm, James Harlow, the Duke of Warwick, spots a young woman walking along the road when a bolt of lightning startles her. She tumbles down the ravine and lays like a broken doll at the bottom. Warwick rescues her and with the help of his staff nurses her back to health. There’s only one problem—the woman who has captivated his heart has lost her memory and cannot tell him who she is or where she comes from. Can he find out the identity of this delicate beauty before fate steps in and ruins everything he loves?
Amazon buy link for ONLY .99:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0892SBDTC

Grab a copy before the price updates to $2.99. 

All the books in the Age of Innocence series can be found here:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B074CCLG93
Excerpt:
Richard Blackwood, the Earl of Lincoln, exited his carriage and walked up the stairs to the Beckwith townhome. It was extremely early for a morning call, but he wanted this business over with. The sooner he got the marriage contract signed, the sooner he could marry Lady Amelia and get his heir on her. He had not liked her little show of defiance last night on the balcony and would make sure she understood that that kind of behavior would not be tolerated in the future. He didn’t care for the chit, but she was the prettiest this Season, and he wanted to ensure that his future son and heir had the best chance of being handsome like his father. He cared not for daughters and would visit the marriage bed only until he had his heir and a spare.He lifted the knocker and let it bang down. A somber-looking butler opened the door. “My lord, you are expected. This way, please.”Lincoln followed him down the hall to the baron’s study. Before they reached the door, a hysterical scream pierced the air. “What the bloody hell was that?”The butler turned a shade of white and hurried toward the stairs with the earl hard on his heels. They bounded up the stairs to the family level and were met by the baroness, screaming outside a bedchamber.The baron was trying to calm his wife but wasn’t having any luck. “Grace, calm yourself. This is not helping the situation.”“What is the meaning of this?” Lincoln demanded, taking in the sight of the hysterical baroness and her husband.“She’s gone, she’s gone,” wailed the baroness, throwing herself in her husband’s arms. “My darling girl must be kidnapped.”Lincoln had a sinking feeling that he would not like what the answer he was about to receive. “Who’s gone?”“Lincoln, I’m afraid Amelia’s missing,” Dudley said, taking a step away from his distraught wife.Lincoln looked between the baron and his wife, trying to parse out the story. “What do you mean missing? Perhaps she is out walking.”Dudley shook his head. “Her maid is here. Amelia would not go out without Dolly. She is a very responsible young woman and I am afraid I agree with my wife’s assertion that Amelia has been taken against her will.”Richard strode into the bedchamber. His hands began clenching and unclenching as his fury built. “Where is the maid? I wish to question her.”A timid-looking maid stepped forward. “I’m Dolly, my lord,” she said with a curtsey.“What makes you think Miss Beckwith is missing?” he ground out between clenched teeth. He was having a difficult time controlling his anger at this hitch in his perfect plan, but until he had all the facts, he would keep himself in check.The maid flinched at his tone. “Her bed is cold, my lord, and none of her dresses or personal items are missing.”Richard pushed past the maid, wanting to see the chit’s room for himself. He took in the scene. Everything seemed to be in order, with no dresses strewn about to indicate a hurried packing of her things. There was also no sign of a struggle, and that led him to believe that, more than likely, Amelia had left of her own volition. “Is there a valise missing?”Dolly shook her head. “No, my lord. Her valise is still in the armoire.”Richard pushed aside the dresses. The maid was correct—in the corner sat a valise. If Amelia had run, why wouldn’t she pack a few essentials? Then the truth slammed into his gut. Amelia was much more clever than he had anticipated and hadn’t wanted to leave any clues behind when she fled the townhome. “Dudley, I’ll talk to you in your study,” Richard said, striding from the room.“Of course,” the baron said, disentangling his wife from his arm. “I’ll return shortly,” he whispered to her, then directed Dolly to help his wife to her bedchamber.When Dudley entered his study, Lincoln was pacing like a caged lion. He didn’t get a word out before the earl grabbed his cravat and tightened it in his fist. “What nonsense is this? Where’s your daughter?”<!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Arial; panose-1:2 11 6 4 2 2 2 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;}</style> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sf0of1SCV..." imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="203" data-original-width="270" height="150" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9sf0of1SCV..." width="200" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-family: "arial";"><style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Arial; panose-1:2 11 6 4 2 2 2 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;}size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;}</style> </span></div><br /><style><!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Arial; panose-1:2 11 6 4 2 2 2 2 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} a:link, span.MsoHyperlink {mso-style-noshow:yes; color:blue; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;} a:visited, span.MsoHyperlinkFollowed {mso-style-noshow:yes; color:purple; text-decoration:underline; text-underline:single;}size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;}</style><br /><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/TwoEnd..." height="1" width="1" alt=""/>

#Review: MY FAVORITE DUKE by Bianca Blythe

3 of 5 stars
Lucas, the Duke of Ainsworth, wants everyone to believe he's a bumbling botanist when in fact he's actually do work for the Home Office. While on a mission that goes wrong he meets Lady Juliet and is intrigued by her, but she's engaged to the Duke of Sherwood. Lucas continues to investigate a counterfeiting ring and he doesn't like where it leads. Can Lucas convince Juliet that he is the better man?
Ms. Blythe introduced Juliet in the first book with a few small scenes and I was wondering why to include a non-essential character. Now we have Juliet's story. I didn't like this book as much as the first one especially with some of Juliet's antics of going off on wild goose chases regarding her absentee duke. It was out of character and very modern for a regency young lady. I liked Lucas much more and especially his back story and connection to Sherwood. I'm looking forward to reading the next story in the series.
I've voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.

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