Tina Gayle's Blog, page 44
July 11, 2014
@GoddessFish Presents Dreams of Perfection by @RebeccaHeflin
This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Rebecca will be awarding an author-graphed ebook to two randomly drawn winners via Rafflecopter. Click the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.
What if perfection isn’t truly perfect?
Best-selling romance writer, Darcy Butler, is holding out for perfection in the form of her own carefully-crafted heroes. Once blissfully engaged to be married, Darcy’s post-traumatic commitment phobia is depriving her of the very thing she wants most: her very own happily-ever-after. Now, here she is just six months shy of her thirtieth birthday, and not a Prince Charming in sight.
Successful lawyer, Josh Ryan, is the boy-next-door with a soft spot for the less fortunate, and Darcy’s best friend without benefits. Darcy often comes to him lamenting her love-life, or the lack thereof, whereupon Josh patiently doles out his sage advice. Problem is Josh is in love with Darcy.
But when Darcy finds herself looking into the handsome face of the man who graces the cover of her soon-to-be-released novel, she’s convinced her dreams of perfection have come true. Or have they?
About the Author:
Rebecca Heflin is an award-winning author who has dreamed of writing romantic fiction since she was fifteen and her older sister snuck a copy of Kathleen Woodiwiss' Shanna to her and told her to read it. Rebecca writes women's fiction and contemporary romance. When not passionately pursuing her dream, Rebecca is busy with her day-job as a practicing attorney.Rebecca is a member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), Florida Romance Writers, RWA Contemporary Romance, and Florida Writers Association. She and her mountain-climbing husband live at sea level in sunny Florida.
Awards:
2013 Florida Writers Association Royal Palm Literary Award Finalist (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence Winner (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Virginia Romance Writers Holt Medallion Award of Merit (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Georgia Romance Writers Published Maggie Finalist (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Shooting Star Award (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Gayle Wilson Award of Excellence Finalist (Rescuing Lacey)
2013 Wisconsin Romance Writers Write Touch Readers' Awards Finalist (The Promise of Change)
2011 Royal Palm Literary Awards Finalist (The Promise of Change)
Website: http://www.rebeccaheflin.com/wordpress/
Blog: http://www.rebeccaheflin.com/wordpress/blog/
Twitter: @RebeccaHeflin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaHeflinBooks
a Rafflecopter giveaway
July 10, 2014
Nebraska Site of My EWC Series
When I started my Executive Wives' Club Series, I looked in my own back yard for my setting.
At the time, I was living in Nebraska and was enjoying the unique surroundings.
I liked the beautiful evergreens and had bought a blue spruce for my front yard. Then the first snow came and I could see how one had to fight the elements. In Marketing Exec's Widow, Jen has to deal with ice on her driveway and ends up falling. Luckily, I didn't take any falls but I could see how this could happen. Also, Jen's dog was a joy to write because he reminded me of my dog.
Peach didn't particular like having to do her business in the snow.
Also, I liked the scenery and tried to work it into my books.
I guess all writer's do this. Though I have to say that even though I don't live in Nebraska anymore, I still enjoy writing about the places I visited there.
The last book is coming along nicely...The CEO's Widow. Marianne is facing some challenges but with help from the other executive wives, she'll find the strength to go on. I especially liked the wineries --- I have visited a few in California too.
Here's to great places and authors who write about them. Have a great day, Tina
At the time, I was living in Nebraska and was enjoying the unique surroundings.
I liked the beautiful evergreens and had bought a blue spruce for my front yard. Then the first snow came and I could see how one had to fight the elements. In Marketing Exec's Widow, Jen has to deal with ice on her driveway and ends up falling. Luckily, I didn't take any falls but I could see how this could happen. Also, Jen's dog was a joy to write because he reminded me of my dog.
Peach didn't particular like having to do her business in the snow.
Also, I liked the scenery and tried to work it into my books.
I guess all writer's do this. Though I have to say that even though I don't live in Nebraska anymore, I still enjoy writing about the places I visited there.The last book is coming along nicely...The CEO's Widow. Marianne is facing some challenges but with help from the other executive wives, she'll find the strength to go on. I especially liked the wineries --- I have visited a few in California too.
Here's to great places and authors who write about them. Have a great day, Tina
July 9, 2014
Lady Elinor's Escape a #RockingSummerRomance by Linda McLaughlin #MFRWauthor
Linda McLaughlin
Author bio:
Linda McLaughlin grew up with a love of books and history, so it's only natural she prefers writing historical romance. She loves transporting her readers into the past where her characters learn that, in the journey of life, love is the sweetest reward. Linda also writes steamy to erotic romance under the name Lyndi Lamont, and is one half of the writing team of Lyn O'Farrell.
You can find her online at http://lindalyndi.comBlog: http://lindalyndi.com/reading-room-blog/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaMcLaughlinAuthorTwitter: @Lyndi Lamont https://twitter.com/LyndiLamont
Blurb:
Lady Elinor's Escape by Linda McLaughlin Sweet Regency Romance Lady Elinor Ashworth always longed for adventure, but when she runs away from her abusive aunt, she finds more than she bargained for. Elinor fears her aunt who is irrational and dangerous, threatening Elinor and anyone she associates with. When she encounters an inquisitive gentleman, she accepts his help, but fearing for his safety, hides her identity by pretending to be a seamstress. She resists his every attempt to draw her out, all the while fighting her attraction to him.
There are too many women in barrister Stephen Chaplin's life, but he has never been able to turn his back on a damsel in distress. The younger son of a baronet is a rescuer of troubled females, an unusual vocation fueled guilt over his failure to save the woman he loved from her brutal husband. He cannot help falling in love with his secretive seamstress, but to his dismay, the truth of her background reveals Stephen as the ineligible party.
Buy links:
Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00CHSNEII
Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/lady-elinors-escape/id645217449
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-ladyelinor039sescape-1169382-160.html
BN/Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lady-elinors-escape-linda-mclaughlin/1100559263
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/lady-elinor-s-escape
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/312406
Excerpt:
“Would you like to take a walk? There is a remarkable view of the city from the top of the hill, but do not forget your bonnet. You do not wish to get freckles on that lovely complexion.” He playfully touched the tip of her nose with one finger.
She laughed and donned the straw hat, but left her gloves on the blanket. “I never freckle.”
He moved closer to tie the ribbons under her chin. The brush of his hands on her neck sent shivers through her.
“We do not want your hat to blow off. It can be windy on the hill.”
He stood and held out his hand to help her up. She was acutely aware of the warmth of his bare hand enfolding hers. It was quite improper but also quite pleasant. Fingers linked, they trudged up the hill.
“Oh,” Elinor gasped softly when they reached the top. London lay before her, viewed through a slight haze. Nevertheless, she could see the spires of the city’s many churches. The sheer size and scope of the panorama comforted her. Surely, in such a large city, Aunt Sarah would not find her.
“Worth the walk, is it not?” Stephen Chaplin said as he let go her hand and stood behind her. He put one hand on her shoulder and used the other one to point out various landmarks. “There is St. Paul’s. Do you see the dome?”
“Yes,” she whispered, acutely aware of his closeness. The heat of his body seemed to envelope her and she breathed in his scent, a combination of soap and musk. She had to force herself to concentrate on what he was saying.
“That is the City, and over there,” his arm swept to the right, “is Westminster and Mayfair. And in the distance, you can see the hills of Kent.”
She looked past the city and saw the faint outline of hills. Turning around, she smiled up at him. “It is a lovely view. How can I thank you for such a pleasant day?”
His gaze grew more intense and he leaned toward her. Was he going to kiss her? Should she let him? Of course not, her head answered, but her heart sped up and she leaned toward him.
Then he blinked and abruptly drew back. “There is no need to thank me. It has been my pleasure. Now we had best return. Madame Latour will be wondering what has happened to you.”
Oddly disappointed, Elinor let him lead her back down the hill. For just a second she had thought he might kiss her. Had wanted him to kiss her. She sighed. What was wrong with her? Under the circumstances, it would be beyond the pale for her to lead him on. After all, she would only be in London a short time, just until her father sent for her. She needed to concentrate on getting word to him about her predicament.
Before she lost all sense of the propriety demanded of the daughter of an earl.
Thanks Linda, for sharing,
Tina
Author bio:
Linda McLaughlin grew up with a love of books and history, so it's only natural she prefers writing historical romance. She loves transporting her readers into the past where her characters learn that, in the journey of life, love is the sweetest reward. Linda also writes steamy to erotic romance under the name Lyndi Lamont, and is one half of the writing team of Lyn O'Farrell.
You can find her online at http://lindalyndi.comBlog: http://lindalyndi.com/reading-room-blog/Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LindaMcLaughlinAuthorTwitter: @Lyndi Lamont https://twitter.com/LyndiLamont
Blurb:
Lady Elinor's Escape by Linda McLaughlin Sweet Regency Romance Lady Elinor Ashworth always longed for adventure, but when she runs away from her abusive aunt, she finds more than she bargained for. Elinor fears her aunt who is irrational and dangerous, threatening Elinor and anyone she associates with. When she encounters an inquisitive gentleman, she accepts his help, but fearing for his safety, hides her identity by pretending to be a seamstress. She resists his every attempt to draw her out, all the while fighting her attraction to him.
There are too many women in barrister Stephen Chaplin's life, but he has never been able to turn his back on a damsel in distress. The younger son of a baronet is a rescuer of troubled females, an unusual vocation fueled guilt over his failure to save the woman he loved from her brutal husband. He cannot help falling in love with his secretive seamstress, but to his dismay, the truth of her background reveals Stephen as the ineligible party.
Buy links:
Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00CHSNEII
Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/lady-elinors-escape/id645217449
ARe: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-ladyelinor039sescape-1169382-160.html
BN/Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lady-elinors-escape-linda-mclaughlin/1100559263
Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/lady-elinor-s-escape
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/312406
Excerpt:
“Would you like to take a walk? There is a remarkable view of the city from the top of the hill, but do not forget your bonnet. You do not wish to get freckles on that lovely complexion.” He playfully touched the tip of her nose with one finger.
She laughed and donned the straw hat, but left her gloves on the blanket. “I never freckle.”
He moved closer to tie the ribbons under her chin. The brush of his hands on her neck sent shivers through her.
“We do not want your hat to blow off. It can be windy on the hill.”
He stood and held out his hand to help her up. She was acutely aware of the warmth of his bare hand enfolding hers. It was quite improper but also quite pleasant. Fingers linked, they trudged up the hill.
“Oh,” Elinor gasped softly when they reached the top. London lay before her, viewed through a slight haze. Nevertheless, she could see the spires of the city’s many churches. The sheer size and scope of the panorama comforted her. Surely, in such a large city, Aunt Sarah would not find her.
“Worth the walk, is it not?” Stephen Chaplin said as he let go her hand and stood behind her. He put one hand on her shoulder and used the other one to point out various landmarks. “There is St. Paul’s. Do you see the dome?”
“Yes,” she whispered, acutely aware of his closeness. The heat of his body seemed to envelope her and she breathed in his scent, a combination of soap and musk. She had to force herself to concentrate on what he was saying.
“That is the City, and over there,” his arm swept to the right, “is Westminster and Mayfair. And in the distance, you can see the hills of Kent.”
She looked past the city and saw the faint outline of hills. Turning around, she smiled up at him. “It is a lovely view. How can I thank you for such a pleasant day?”
His gaze grew more intense and he leaned toward her. Was he going to kiss her? Should she let him? Of course not, her head answered, but her heart sped up and she leaned toward him.
Then he blinked and abruptly drew back. “There is no need to thank me. It has been my pleasure. Now we had best return. Madame Latour will be wondering what has happened to you.”
Oddly disappointed, Elinor let him lead her back down the hill. For just a second she had thought he might kiss her. Had wanted him to kiss her. She sighed. What was wrong with her? Under the circumstances, it would be beyond the pale for her to lead him on. After all, she would only be in London a short time, just until her father sent for her. She needed to concentrate on getting word to him about her predicament.
Before she lost all sense of the propriety demanded of the daughter of an earl.
Thanks Linda, for sharing,
Tina
July 8, 2014
Quickie for #MFRWauthor @Will_Zeilinger for a #RockingSummerRomance
5 short Questions - answered by William Zeilinger
Ice Tea or Lemonade?
Lemonade
Lake or ocean?
Ocean
Sandals or Flip flops?
Flip Flops
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?
Back Porch
Ball cap or floppy hat?
Ball Cap
BLURB:
Tiffany Stonebridge is in love with aspiring chef, Richard Grainger. She rocks his world every chance she gets which leads him to max out his plastic on a ring that would light up the night sky. Richard promises her a honeymoon in Tahiti if only to impress Mr. Stonebridge.
With no way to pay for any of this, Richard secretly takes a second job as a nude artist's model. Tiffany and her rich family can never find out or things could get very ugly.
His life gets more complicated when he meets Clarise Simpson, another artist’s model…a naked one. Their friendship goes from zero to bed in a blink. Richard battles his feelings for both women.
Richard’s friend leaves a big old hound dog with and splits. When he misses a couple of Stonebridge family gatherings, her father thinks Richard might be babysitting someone else besides a dog.
Excerpt
Clarise hit him hard on the arm. If I didn't keep one hand on the front door and the other in my pocket, I probably would have decked him. My mother always taught me that restraint took more discipline and strength than muscle... lucky for him."Sure, Ha ha, whatever." I shook my head and went out to my truck. Clarise came running outside, calling my name.She caught up to me as I was getting into my truck."I'm sorry about Brandon. He's such a jerk sometimes.""Don't worry about it." I told her, "I'm sure there's something nice about him...seeya next week." It was considerate of her to be concerned. I closed the door and started the engine. In my mirror, I could see Brandon waiting by the door with his arms folded across his chest. As I shifted the truck into gear, Clarise walked back to him with her arms folded. I didn't want to get in the middle of that. I just hope he didn't think there was something going on between us. Why would he? Everything that was going on was going on inside of me. Tiffany was waiting for me at her place with, what looked like, a pile of literature from every wedding planner and banquet facility in Southern California. She was excited that something tangible was happening on the road to the wedding. I realized this was the most important day of her life, but for both of us it will be - as the old saying goes, the first day of the rest of our lives. What I was beginning to realize was that I didn't know very much about my intended, except she liked to shop and have sex. For most men, the second item would've been enough and the first could've easily been a pain in the wallet. She'd cleared off the coffee table in the family room and arranged the literature in some kind of an order, I suspect, known only to her. "Okay Richie," she looked at me like a first grade teacher on the first day of class. "Here's what I've researched..."I put my hand on hers. "Tiffany, before we go any further with our wedding plans, we need to talk." Her eyes grew very wide and she started to turn pale. "Tiffany! breathe..." I rubbed her back. She gasped and ran to the kitchen, "I need a drink of water." I got up from the loveseat and followed her. She gulped down a full tumbler of ice water and closed her eyes. Just as I began to speak, she held up her hand. "Just a minute Richard - before you say anything else, just answer me this... Are you breaking up with me?"
SHORT BIO:
I’ve been writing for over twelve years. During that time, I took novel writing classes and joined writer’s groups, but what has helps me most are published authors who mentor, encourage, critique and listen to me while I continue to learn my craft. I live in Southern California with my wife and are currently working on a crime novel together. Finding time to write while life happens is a challenge.
Buy Link: http://www.willzeilingerauthor.com
This will link to all purchase sites
Ice Tea or Lemonade?
Lemonade
Lake or ocean?
Ocean
Sandals or Flip flops?
Flip Flops
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?
Back Porch
Ball cap or floppy hat?
Ball Cap
BLURB:
Tiffany Stonebridge is in love with aspiring chef, Richard Grainger. She rocks his world every chance she gets which leads him to max out his plastic on a ring that would light up the night sky. Richard promises her a honeymoon in Tahiti if only to impress Mr. Stonebridge.
With no way to pay for any of this, Richard secretly takes a second job as a nude artist's model. Tiffany and her rich family can never find out or things could get very ugly.
His life gets more complicated when he meets Clarise Simpson, another artist’s model…a naked one. Their friendship goes from zero to bed in a blink. Richard battles his feelings for both women.
Richard’s friend leaves a big old hound dog with and splits. When he misses a couple of Stonebridge family gatherings, her father thinks Richard might be babysitting someone else besides a dog.
Excerpt
Clarise hit him hard on the arm. If I didn't keep one hand on the front door and the other in my pocket, I probably would have decked him. My mother always taught me that restraint took more discipline and strength than muscle... lucky for him."Sure, Ha ha, whatever." I shook my head and went out to my truck. Clarise came running outside, calling my name.She caught up to me as I was getting into my truck."I'm sorry about Brandon. He's such a jerk sometimes.""Don't worry about it." I told her, "I'm sure there's something nice about him...seeya next week." It was considerate of her to be concerned. I closed the door and started the engine. In my mirror, I could see Brandon waiting by the door with his arms folded across his chest. As I shifted the truck into gear, Clarise walked back to him with her arms folded. I didn't want to get in the middle of that. I just hope he didn't think there was something going on between us. Why would he? Everything that was going on was going on inside of me. Tiffany was waiting for me at her place with, what looked like, a pile of literature from every wedding planner and banquet facility in Southern California. She was excited that something tangible was happening on the road to the wedding. I realized this was the most important day of her life, but for both of us it will be - as the old saying goes, the first day of the rest of our lives. What I was beginning to realize was that I didn't know very much about my intended, except she liked to shop and have sex. For most men, the second item would've been enough and the first could've easily been a pain in the wallet. She'd cleared off the coffee table in the family room and arranged the literature in some kind of an order, I suspect, known only to her. "Okay Richie," she looked at me like a first grade teacher on the first day of class. "Here's what I've researched..."I put my hand on hers. "Tiffany, before we go any further with our wedding plans, we need to talk." Her eyes grew very wide and she started to turn pale. "Tiffany! breathe..." I rubbed her back. She gasped and ran to the kitchen, "I need a drink of water." I got up from the loveseat and followed her. She gulped down a full tumbler of ice water and closed her eyes. Just as I began to speak, she held up her hand. "Just a minute Richard - before you say anything else, just answer me this... Are you breaking up with me?"
"What?" I had no idea she was this insecure about our relationship. "No, No. It's nothing like that."
SHORT BIO:
I’ve been writing for over twelve years. During that time, I took novel writing classes and joined writer’s groups, but what has helps me most are published authors who mentor, encourage, critique and listen to me while I continue to learn my craft. I live in Southern California with my wife and are currently working on a crime novel together. Finding time to write while life happens is a challenge.
Buy Link: http://www.willzeilingerauthor.com
This will link to all purchase sites
Social Links: Twitter - @Will_Zeilinger
Facebook - www.facebook.com/wzeilinger
LinkedIn -
Thanks William for sharing the book,
Tina
July 7, 2014
Rock Me, Gently by M.J. Schiller -- #RockingSummerRomance @mjschiller
Like so many others, their romance started in Las Vegas…
He’s a rock star. She’s an ad exec. After almost having a one night affair in Sin City, Josh can’t get Cassie out of his mind. Why had she run out on him?
Like so many others, their romance started with a shot of tequila...
When the Josh Dunningham of Money Back Guaranteed tries to seduce her, Cassie is taken aback. Sure, he’s hot. And he could definitely rock her world. But can she have a fling with a man she doesn’t even know?
Like so many others, their romance turned rocky…
When Cassie returns to Chicago and finds a ten-foot tall Josh Dunningham on a radio station’s banner across from her office, she is tortured by memories of their short time together. When they meet again, things explode—in a bad way—and Josh has to prove himself to Cassie to earn her trust. But will he succeed when outside forces also want to tear them apart? When Cassie receives threatening letters and is attacked in her home, Josh is determined to find out who is behind it. But will the stalker’s encore performance bring an end to their show once and for all?
Excerpt:
She stared into his face, both panting, wide-eyed with their hunger. She seemed to force the words from her mouth. “I need a drink.”
Minutes later, the bartender set the shots on the counter with lime slices and a salt shaker. “No salt.” Cassie said emphatically, and pushed it away. They put their drinks back in unison, staring at each other without saying a word. Before a syllable could be spoken, a fast dance came on and Cassie’s eyes lit up. “I love this song!” She grabbed his arm. “Come on. Let’s dance.”
He tried to keep up, but she shifted emotional gears so fast, she stripped them, leaving him baffled. But before long, he found he was relaxing and enjoying just dancing with her. As the tequila started to affect her, her hips began to move more fluidly. She turned her back to him and reached behind to grab his neck. He bent in, unable to resist nibbling on her ear, but it soon disappeared as she bent her knees, swinging her hips and getting lower and lower to the ground. The hand behind his neck moved to his back, pulling herself closer as she shimmied against him. He groaned, closing his eyes as she vanished between his knees, her hand straying to his butt.
“Cassandra Jo McCallister! What the hell are you doing?”
He opened his eyes with a jolt and saw the redhead, standing in front of him, looking pissed as hell.
ROCK ME, GENTLY LINKSAmazon: http://amzn.com/B00JXL6MZOBarnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rock-me-gently-mj-schiller/1119365745?ean=2940149550845iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id869210019Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/rock-me-gently-1
Author BioMJ is a lunch lady in the heart of Central Illinois. My gosh, can you get more folksy than that? She met her husband at the University of Missouri-Columbia and now she has an nineteen-year-old (how did that happen?) and seventeen year old triplets! She loves to read, karaoke (where she can pretend she is a rock star) and spends WAY too much time on Facebook. She grew up in St. Louis and still has family there.
MJ LINKS
Website: www.mjschillerauthor.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/MJ-Schiller-Romance-Author/286382241460365?ref=hlPinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/mjschiller/Twitter: https://twitter.com/mjschillerTumblr: http://mjschilz.tumblr.com/Instagram: http://instagram.com/mjschillerGoogle + : https://plus.google.com/u/0/110797684036386240402/posts Quickie Questions:
Iced Tea or Lemonade? Definitely lemonade. I’m a sweet hound!
Lake or ocean? Ocean. Love to listen to the waves and jump them, too.
Sandals or Flip flops? Sandals. Bum ankle.
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch? Porch. Sadly I’m scared of ticks and right now I’m battling poison ivy, so definitely porch!
Ball cap or floppy hat? Ball caps are my weapon of choice, especially on days when I’m not wearing makeup. Seems less obvious somehow…
Thanks for having me! This was fun!
July 6, 2014
Tina Tidings - Reworking The Book
I'm currently working on the last book in the Executive Wives' Club series. I had planned to write Marianne's story with her son's, Travis relationship with Lyndsey. I wanted to explore the difference between an older woman dating a younger man while also seeing the development of an older man with a younger woman.
The writing process was not going as I had plan so after failing to meet my writing goals. My husband suggested that I break these two relationships into two shorter stories. I liked the idea so I could offer my readers a cheaper read.
So now, I working on Marianne's story. I'm only finished the first fourth of the book, but still hoping to have it finished by the end of August. Needless to say, I need to get my butt in the chair and write.
I'm enjoying the journey.
If you are interested in the first three books, I've listed them here.
Marketing Exec's Widow 1st Book in Executives' Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Needing to revive her life and jump start her heart, Jennifer Larson is facing the biggest challenge of her life, moving into an unplanned future. While the rest of the Executives Wives' Club continue to mourn their husbands, Jen is tempted into the future by a sexy chiropractor, Hagan Chaney.
But does he love her or her money?
Read First Chapter of "Marketing Exec's Widow" and Reviews
Purchase ebook at Smashwords | B&N | Kobo | APPLE | At Amazon (worldwide link)
IT's Exec's Baby - 2nd Book in Executives' Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Brie Sullivan has a new baby girl and there are a million things to do, but Brie doesn’t have the energy to keep up. Why? She’s still grieving for her husband and suffering from baby blues, but she won’t let that stop her. She’s come up with the answer--find a new husband to be the father of her kids.
Jason Clark has been doing everything he can to help Brie. He loves her but can he accept her proposal of marriage knowing she’s not thinking clearly about the future?
Read First Chapter of "IT's Exec's Baby"
Purchase ebook at:
Smashwords | B&N | Kobo | Apple | At Amazon (worldwide link)
CFO's Affair - 3rd book in the Executive Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Four women... One fatal car wreck... Everyone's lives changed...
Blurb: Sylvia Donovan is emotionally wounded from the unexpected death of her husband and still haunted by their last conversation: his request for a divorce and his confession of love for another woman. Her husband gone, her only daughter off to college, Sylvia faces the challenges of learning to live alone and move on with her life.
Vince Wilshire, enchanted with Sylvia, is more than willing to do what it takes to capture the heart of the hurting and untrusting Sylvia.
Can he help her forget the past and make her believe in love again?
Purchase ebook at: Read First Chapter of "CFO's Affair"Purchase ebook at: Smashwords | Amazon | B&N | Kobo |
Have a great summer and have fun,
Tina
The writing process was not going as I had plan so after failing to meet my writing goals. My husband suggested that I break these two relationships into two shorter stories. I liked the idea so I could offer my readers a cheaper read.
So now, I working on Marianne's story. I'm only finished the first fourth of the book, but still hoping to have it finished by the end of August. Needless to say, I need to get my butt in the chair and write.
I'm enjoying the journey.
If you are interested in the first three books, I've listed them here.
Marketing Exec's Widow 1st Book in Executives' Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Needing to revive her life and jump start her heart, Jennifer Larson is facing the biggest challenge of her life, moving into an unplanned future. While the rest of the Executives Wives' Club continue to mourn their husbands, Jen is tempted into the future by a sexy chiropractor, Hagan Chaney.
But does he love her or her money?
Read First Chapter of "Marketing Exec's Widow" and Reviews
Purchase ebook at Smashwords | B&N | Kobo | APPLE | At Amazon (worldwide link)
IT's Exec's Baby - 2nd Book in Executives' Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Brie Sullivan has a new baby girl and there are a million things to do, but Brie doesn’t have the energy to keep up. Why? She’s still grieving for her husband and suffering from baby blues, but she won’t let that stop her. She’s come up with the answer--find a new husband to be the father of her kids.
Jason Clark has been doing everything he can to help Brie. He loves her but can he accept her proposal of marriage knowing she’s not thinking clearly about the future?
Read First Chapter of "IT's Exec's Baby"
Purchase ebook at:
Smashwords | B&N | Kobo | Apple | At Amazon (worldwide link)
CFO's Affair - 3rd book in the Executive Wives' Club series (strong women fiction elements)
Four women... One fatal car wreck... Everyone's lives changed...
Blurb: Sylvia Donovan is emotionally wounded from the unexpected death of her husband and still haunted by their last conversation: his request for a divorce and his confession of love for another woman. Her husband gone, her only daughter off to college, Sylvia faces the challenges of learning to live alone and move on with her life.
Vince Wilshire, enchanted with Sylvia, is more than willing to do what it takes to capture the heart of the hurting and untrusting Sylvia.
Can he help her forget the past and make her believe in love again?
Purchase ebook at: Read First Chapter of "CFO's Affair"Purchase ebook at: Smashwords | Amazon | B&N | Kobo |
Have a great summer and have fun,
Tina
July 5, 2014
C.V.Madison Joins the #RockingSummerRomance with The Layover @DeAubreyDigest
Let's start with 5 quickie questions -Ice Tea or Lemonade?
Both! I fell in love with Arnold Palmer half and half when we started carrying them at the coffeehouse I worked at. I've been hooked ever since!
Lake or ocean?
Ocean. If I'm swimming with fish, I want the water to be clean. I've never been in a blue water lake.
Sandals or Flip flops?
Flip flops. I can drop my feet in them and go. Sandals take too long to lace up and I always break the straps.
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?
We have a sun porch and I like to sit out there when the weather's nice.
Ball cap or floppy hat?
I have always wanted to be one of those floppy hat wearers. A big straw hat that covers my face in the sun. My problem is, I always look ridiculous. I'm more familiar with ball caps so I can pull all my hair up off the back of my neck.
Blurb: Security expert and avowed city boy Reno Locke drops into a local bar to find a little loving to fill his off hours. Country boy Wilder Henderson swings in to blow off a little steam after winning a rodeo competition. Locke works up the nerve to hit on Wilder and takes him back to his room. He finds out this urban cowboy is just what he was looking for during The Layover.
Excerpt:The bar's newest arrival scanned the tar-darkened decor for a prime seat. Tall and lanky and topped by a black western hat, he was a good head and a half taller than the seated crowd. The wide-brimmed felted hat was the first of his dress to be removed. Sandy blond hair stuck out in wild tufts, resisting the quick comb of his tapered fingers. Smiling, he made a flirty pass toward a woman perched atop a tall chair. He gave a teasing beg of forgiveness for wetting her dress with snow before making his way into the heart of the room. A set of aged spurs fixed to the heel of his black boots jangled as they struck against the scarred wood floor, their tone contrasting the smooth jazz melody. A bolo lay close against the top button of his shirt, the silver Concho sunburst a simple contrast to the bold plaid print of the once-upon-a-time pressed western shirt. Slipping out of a weather-stained insulated workman's coat, he knocked himself clean of melting snowflakes. No longer hidden, a pair of worn jeans hung comfortably on his hips, secured with a wide silver-buckled belt, a piece he spent a good minute fussing over before finally ordering something to drink. Damn. Hello, tall, tan and handsome. Maybe his prospects weren't dead in the water. Locke found a niche for his tongue between his back molars while he watched the newcomer toe up to the bar. The sexy cowboy’s five o'clock shadow scraped the faded collar of his shirt. His shirt pulled tight over his back as he leaned in to speak in the bartender’s ear. Well-defined muscle rolled under the taut cloth running the full length of his spine to the cover of denim over his backside. Aged by use, his jeans clung in near perfection to the curvature of work-refined buttocks. “Holy fuck, that ass...” He wasn't sure he'd said that out loud, but if he had, no one appeared to notice. Although he'd always thought the phrase “ride a cowboy” stupid, he'd just reconsidered in thirty seconds of seriousness. The waitress delivered Locke’s drink as he ogled the new man draped over the bar. Two drinks arrived for the cowboy. The smaller serving was quickly dropped into the larger, letting him down both with a practiced ease. Coming up for breath the blond panted, looking around to those nearby with a come-easy grin. “If that ain't enough to keep the blood going, then best throw me out in the snow now!” He let another whoop go then did a quick follow-up of beer to chase his Boilermaker.The newcomer laughed quietly, maybe about the attention he'd drawn with his coarse demeanor. His drawl was thick, a genuine mark of a kid born and raised in the South. Everything about his composure suggested he’d rubbed elbows with well-to-do’s before and cared not one lick to shadow their rules. Hazel eyes met Locke’s. The modern cowboy took a half step from his claim at the bar and thrust his hand forward. “You come here often?”
Buy Link: http://jupitergardenspress.com/shop/the-layover/
Bio: C.V. Madison is a licensed massage therapist, author and gamer full of shadenfreude pie and Mountain Dew. She pens urban fantasy, horror and steampunk with a side of heavy romance. Her characters are straight, LGBTQIA and some shades not on the spectrum. She has been published in both fiction and non-fiction anthologies. Through the month of November, she can be found in local coffee houses, over caffeinated and armed with her trusty laptop as she strives to bang out 50,000 words in 30 days for National Novel Writer’s Month. She serves as a Municipal Liaison for Columbus, Ohio.Twitter: @DeAubreyDigestFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/cvmadisonWebsite: http://cvmadison.com
Thanks C.V. , for sharing and have a great summer,
Tina
Both! I fell in love with Arnold Palmer half and half when we started carrying them at the coffeehouse I worked at. I've been hooked ever since!
Lake or ocean?
Ocean. If I'm swimming with fish, I want the water to be clean. I've never been in a blue water lake.
Sandals or Flip flops?
Flip flops. I can drop my feet in them and go. Sandals take too long to lace up and I always break the straps.
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?
We have a sun porch and I like to sit out there when the weather's nice.
Ball cap or floppy hat?
I have always wanted to be one of those floppy hat wearers. A big straw hat that covers my face in the sun. My problem is, I always look ridiculous. I'm more familiar with ball caps so I can pull all my hair up off the back of my neck.
Blurb: Security expert and avowed city boy Reno Locke drops into a local bar to find a little loving to fill his off hours. Country boy Wilder Henderson swings in to blow off a little steam after winning a rodeo competition. Locke works up the nerve to hit on Wilder and takes him back to his room. He finds out this urban cowboy is just what he was looking for during The Layover.
Excerpt:The bar's newest arrival scanned the tar-darkened decor for a prime seat. Tall and lanky and topped by a black western hat, he was a good head and a half taller than the seated crowd. The wide-brimmed felted hat was the first of his dress to be removed. Sandy blond hair stuck out in wild tufts, resisting the quick comb of his tapered fingers. Smiling, he made a flirty pass toward a woman perched atop a tall chair. He gave a teasing beg of forgiveness for wetting her dress with snow before making his way into the heart of the room. A set of aged spurs fixed to the heel of his black boots jangled as they struck against the scarred wood floor, their tone contrasting the smooth jazz melody. A bolo lay close against the top button of his shirt, the silver Concho sunburst a simple contrast to the bold plaid print of the once-upon-a-time pressed western shirt. Slipping out of a weather-stained insulated workman's coat, he knocked himself clean of melting snowflakes. No longer hidden, a pair of worn jeans hung comfortably on his hips, secured with a wide silver-buckled belt, a piece he spent a good minute fussing over before finally ordering something to drink. Damn. Hello, tall, tan and handsome. Maybe his prospects weren't dead in the water. Locke found a niche for his tongue between his back molars while he watched the newcomer toe up to the bar. The sexy cowboy’s five o'clock shadow scraped the faded collar of his shirt. His shirt pulled tight over his back as he leaned in to speak in the bartender’s ear. Well-defined muscle rolled under the taut cloth running the full length of his spine to the cover of denim over his backside. Aged by use, his jeans clung in near perfection to the curvature of work-refined buttocks. “Holy fuck, that ass...” He wasn't sure he'd said that out loud, but if he had, no one appeared to notice. Although he'd always thought the phrase “ride a cowboy” stupid, he'd just reconsidered in thirty seconds of seriousness. The waitress delivered Locke’s drink as he ogled the new man draped over the bar. Two drinks arrived for the cowboy. The smaller serving was quickly dropped into the larger, letting him down both with a practiced ease. Coming up for breath the blond panted, looking around to those nearby with a come-easy grin. “If that ain't enough to keep the blood going, then best throw me out in the snow now!” He let another whoop go then did a quick follow-up of beer to chase his Boilermaker.The newcomer laughed quietly, maybe about the attention he'd drawn with his coarse demeanor. His drawl was thick, a genuine mark of a kid born and raised in the South. Everything about his composure suggested he’d rubbed elbows with well-to-do’s before and cared not one lick to shadow their rules. Hazel eyes met Locke’s. The modern cowboy took a half step from his claim at the bar and thrust his hand forward. “You come here often?”
Buy Link: http://jupitergardenspress.com/shop/the-layover/
Bio: C.V. Madison is a licensed massage therapist, author and gamer full of shadenfreude pie and Mountain Dew. She pens urban fantasy, horror and steampunk with a side of heavy romance. Her characters are straight, LGBTQIA and some shades not on the spectrum. She has been published in both fiction and non-fiction anthologies. Through the month of November, she can be found in local coffee houses, over caffeinated and armed with her trusty laptop as she strives to bang out 50,000 words in 30 days for National Novel Writer’s Month. She serves as a Municipal Liaison for Columbus, Ohio.Twitter: @DeAubreyDigestFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/cvmadisonWebsite: http://cvmadison.com
Thanks C.V. , for sharing and have a great summer,
Tina
July 4, 2014
#MFRWauthor Anita Philmar #RockingSummerRomance on the Freedom Hop
"What type of motivation would it take to risk your life for your country?Honor?Justice?A sense of Nationalism?Hope for the future?Other?
Rane put it all on the line to save her country but can she come out of the battle unharmed?
Blurb:
A spy that prefers to work alone, Nick Royster’s assignment is turned upside down when his superiors sends him a personal companion. Not appreciating the need to watch someone else’s back, he attends a dinner of Salsar’s inner group. Only to learn, he has to sacrifice Rane to get the information he needs to end the war.
Rane knows the important of winning. Her family slaughtered by Salsar, this is her homeland and she plans to do whatever it takes to win her peoples’ freedom.
With everything on the line, can these two have any future together or does love and war equal heartache?
Excerpt:
One of his hands slipped lower and toyed with the short hair covering her mound. She rocked her hips to draw his hand lower but he didn’t follow her lead. “I’m here to do whatever you want. My needs according to the companion’s creed are of little consideration.”Nick shook his head. “So I’m the one in charge. You have to follow my lead.” The glare in his blue eyes marked his comment as more of a reference to the assignment than their sexual encounter.Warned he wouldn’t like her on this mission, she stared back at him. Yes, he might like to work alone, but this was her homeland. He might even be close to discovering the location of the purification plant, but he didn’t have intel on Salzar as she did.“Wherever you might go.” She dipped her head and whispered beside his ear. “All the way to hell and back if need be.”He shifted his hands to her waist and rolled her onto her back. The weight of his chest pressed her into the mattress. “You are to follow every one of my directions precisely. I don’t have time to worry and fuss over you.”She stiffened. The innocent statement packed a punch. He effectively tied her hands so she couldn’t do any investigation without his approval.Unhappy about his high-handed attitude, she remembered her part in this farce and cupped her hands around his face. “And what exactly can I do for you at the moment?”He frowned and brushed his lips lightly along her jaw. His whispered word registered seconds before his tongue traced the rim of her ear.“Leave,” bounced around in her head.His pleasure of making love to her body didn’t alter his desire to work this case alone.Undeterred, she played her part and answered for the electronic devices listening to their conversation. “Oh, but I know lots of different positions. Which one would you like to try first?”He lifted his head and stared down into her face. “You are without a doubt a challenge, but luckily I like challenges.”
She smiled.
Find at:Amazon | B&N | Kobo |All Romance
Blurb and
Opening Scene
Remember to leave a comment on her blog for a chance to win an ebook copy of Naked Rebel.http://anitaphilmar.blogspot.com/
Thanks Anita, for sharing,
Tina
July 3, 2014
#RockingSummerRomance by L.A.Remenicky
Some Summertime questions -
Ice Tea or Lemonade?
Actually both! It's called an Arnold Palmer and it is 1/2 Ice Tea and 1/2 Lemonade. Yummy!
Lake or ocean?
Lake - there's nothing better than sitting out on the dock as the sun sets
Sandals or Flip flops? I'm a flip-flop kind of girl. Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?On the porch as long as it's shaded - a fair-skinned redhead and the sun don't mix. Ball cap or floppy hat? Ball cap most of the time.
Author bio:
L.A. Remenicky is a forty-something wife and mother of three fur kids. She has been an avid reader as long as she can remember. She used to disappear with a book when it was time to do dishes or clear the table.
She reads all genres, but her favorites are romance and horror. She started out reading Nancy Drew and quickly graduated to adult romances. Her favorite romance is "Moonraker's Bride" by Madeline Brent.
Her favorite author is Stephen King - She loves how he can weave a story and characters together.
She only started writing recently after thinking about it for years, signing up for NANOWRIMO in 2012 and winning.
span>
Then the killer found them.
Detective Jackson “Jax” McKenna walks into a psychologist’s office and finds that the doctor bears a striking resemblance to his first love, Lainie, who disappeared ten years ago after their disastrous first date ended in violence.
Dr. Elizabeth Parker is really Elaine Wilson, Jax’s Lainie. She’s been in hiding since the night that changed both their lives. Jax discovers the truth when the killer lets Lainie know he’s found her. When Jax and Lainie go on the run to keep Lainie safe, old feelings resurface as the killer threatens their lives. Can Jax save Lainie and help her stay Invisible?
“Dr. Parker? Your four o’clock appointment is here.” Sheila’s announcement made me jump and when I looked at the clock, I realized how much time had passed while I was deep in thought. This was the last appointment of the week, and I was ready for a couple of days off to unwind.
I shuffled the papers on my desk and found the new patient file I’d been reading when Sheila called. The file included official documents from police department internal affairs for a psychological evaluation. I’ve seen several of these orders over the years. It’s protocol whenever an active officer is wounded in the line of duty and is required before they’re allowed to return to work. I reached for the folder and pressed the intercom button. “Sheila, please send him in as soon as he’s filled out the insurance paperwork. Thank you.”
Sheila knew to give me a few extra minutes to allow time to limp to the conversation area to set the stage and sit in my customary spot. I preferred not to begin sessions with the inevitable questions about my own disability. The people who came to see me were in need of my expertise and compassion. It was all about their healing, not mine.
The name on the file folder, J. McKenna, gave me a chill. He was wounded in the line of duty, shot by a bank robbery suspect. Seeing the name reminded me of where I came from and why I was in hiding. I pushed the memories down. I’m not that person anymore. That person doesn’t exist. It wasn’t necessary to touch the locket underneath my sweater as a reminder, but it had become a nervous habit. The locket was the only thing I kept from that life.
The door opened, and Sheila showed my patient in and as my eyes met his, my heart stopped for what seemed like hours. After reading the file, I was afraid of this. How many Jackson McKennas could there be? The hair is shorter, and the face is older, but it’s him, I would know those eyes anywhere. Jackson McKenna. He was my first love and indirectly the reason I have to use a cane to walk farther than across the room.
I cleared my throat and stood, reaching out to shake his hand as I would with any new patient, hoping he didn’t recognize me.
“I’m Dr. Parker. Please make yourself comfortable, Officer McKenna, and we can get started.”
When I realized his right arm was in a sling, I dropped mine back to my side. I picked up my notepad and pen, hoping he didn’t see the way my hands were shaking.
“It’s actually Detective, not Officer.”
He sat on the couch across from me and looked at me with those hazel eyes that have haunted my dreams for ten years, and then he shook his head.
“You remind me of someone I used to know a long time ago.”
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I4FH8Y4
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I4FH8Y4
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/invisible-la-remenicky/1118400613?ean=2940148265498
Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-L-Remenicky/dp/1495218538
Createspace: https://www.createspace.com/4621053
Thanks for stopping by L.A., hope you have an awesome summer,
Tina
Ice Tea or Lemonade?
Actually both! It's called an Arnold Palmer and it is 1/2 Ice Tea and 1/2 Lemonade. Yummy!
Lake or ocean?
Lake - there's nothing better than sitting out on the dock as the sun sets
Sandals or Flip flops? I'm a flip-flop kind of girl. Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch?On the porch as long as it's shaded - a fair-skinned redhead and the sun don't mix. Ball cap or floppy hat? Ball cap most of the time.
Author bio:
L.A. Remenicky is a forty-something wife and mother of three fur kids. She has been an avid reader as long as she can remember. She used to disappear with a book when it was time to do dishes or clear the table.
She reads all genres, but her favorites are romance and horror. She started out reading Nancy Drew and quickly graduated to adult romances. Her favorite romance is "Moonraker's Bride" by Madeline Brent.
Her favorite author is Stephen King - She loves how he can weave a story and characters together.
She only started writing recently after thinking about it for years, signing up for NANOWRIMO in 2012 and winning.
span>
Then the killer found them.
Detective Jackson “Jax” McKenna walks into a psychologist’s office and finds that the doctor bears a striking resemblance to his first love, Lainie, who disappeared ten years ago after their disastrous first date ended in violence.
Dr. Elizabeth Parker is really Elaine Wilson, Jax’s Lainie. She’s been in hiding since the night that changed both their lives. Jax discovers the truth when the killer lets Lainie know he’s found her. When Jax and Lainie go on the run to keep Lainie safe, old feelings resurface as the killer threatens their lives. Can Jax save Lainie and help her stay Invisible?
“Dr. Parker? Your four o’clock appointment is here.” Sheila’s announcement made me jump and when I looked at the clock, I realized how much time had passed while I was deep in thought. This was the last appointment of the week, and I was ready for a couple of days off to unwind.
I shuffled the papers on my desk and found the new patient file I’d been reading when Sheila called. The file included official documents from police department internal affairs for a psychological evaluation. I’ve seen several of these orders over the years. It’s protocol whenever an active officer is wounded in the line of duty and is required before they’re allowed to return to work. I reached for the folder and pressed the intercom button. “Sheila, please send him in as soon as he’s filled out the insurance paperwork. Thank you.”
Sheila knew to give me a few extra minutes to allow time to limp to the conversation area to set the stage and sit in my customary spot. I preferred not to begin sessions with the inevitable questions about my own disability. The people who came to see me were in need of my expertise and compassion. It was all about their healing, not mine.
The name on the file folder, J. McKenna, gave me a chill. He was wounded in the line of duty, shot by a bank robbery suspect. Seeing the name reminded me of where I came from and why I was in hiding. I pushed the memories down. I’m not that person anymore. That person doesn’t exist. It wasn’t necessary to touch the locket underneath my sweater as a reminder, but it had become a nervous habit. The locket was the only thing I kept from that life.
The door opened, and Sheila showed my patient in and as my eyes met his, my heart stopped for what seemed like hours. After reading the file, I was afraid of this. How many Jackson McKennas could there be? The hair is shorter, and the face is older, but it’s him, I would know those eyes anywhere. Jackson McKenna. He was my first love and indirectly the reason I have to use a cane to walk farther than across the room.
I cleared my throat and stood, reaching out to shake his hand as I would with any new patient, hoping he didn’t recognize me.
“I’m Dr. Parker. Please make yourself comfortable, Officer McKenna, and we can get started.”
When I realized his right arm was in a sling, I dropped mine back to my side. I picked up my notepad and pen, hoping he didn’t see the way my hands were shaking.
“It’s actually Detective, not Officer.”
He sat on the couch across from me and looked at me with those hazel eyes that have haunted my dreams for ten years, and then he shook his head.
“You remind me of someone I used to know a long time ago.”
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00I4FH8Y4
Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00I4FH8Y4
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/invisible-la-remenicky/1118400613?ean=2940148265498
Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Invisible-L-Remenicky/dp/1495218538
Createspace: https://www.createspace.com/4621053
Thanks for stopping by L.A., hope you have an awesome summer,
Tina
July 2, 2014
Another #RockingSummerRomance -- Color of Danger by Alexa Verde
Former runaway Mari Del Lobo works hard to save her struggling restaurant and to trust people again. Dallas surgeon Dr. Luke Goodman turns her world upside down with terrifying news. A recent murder has her late brother's - aka the Smiling Killer - signature and MO. When attacks on her escalate, Mari fights her growing attraction to the good doctor as fiercely as she fights for her life. To rescue herself and those she loves, will she be able to stop the murderer before he strikes again? Luke couldn't save his fiancée from the Smiling Killer, but he'll do anything to prevent more murders, even ask help from the serial killer's sister. Finding a kindred tortured soul and the perpetrator's next target in Mari, Luke is determined to protect the stubborn ex-rebel. But Mari would rather face danger than risk the safety of the man she comes to love.
Links:www.alexaverde.comwww.goodreads.com/book/show/22017076-color-of-dangerwww.facebook.com/alexaverdeauthor Buy Link on Amazon:http://tinyurl.com/qc37828
Luke approached the road Mari was taking at ninety degrees. Her motorcycle was dashing between cars. His jaw dropped. Was someone after her?
Saying a quick prayer for her safety, he floored the gas pedal and came to the intersection at full speed.
Ignoring the red light, he turned to the right, wedging himself into traffic before the oncoming car. Angry honking exploded behind him. But he could only concentrate on Mari’s figure that was rapidly disappearing in front of him. With no opening to his left, he passed the car in front of him by driving on the shoulder. Now he had a duet of honking cars. Shrugging it off, he moved to the left, afraid she was running away from somebody. But what if it was her usual way of driving?
He turned on his left blinker, and the car in the passing lane slowed down, letting him in, probably the driver figuring it was safer anyway. He repeated the maneuver several times and arrived at The Café’s parking lot.
Mari’s lanky figure was moving toward the entrance. He jumped out of his car and gave chase. He caught up with her before she reached the door.
“What was it?” He was breathing hard. “Was somebody after you? Or do you like riding between cars?”
“I do.” She turned around.
He clenched his teeth. What was she thinking? “You were putting yourself and other people in danger!”
“But I haven’t done it for an adrenaline rush in forever. And not this time. Somebody tried to run me off the road. I had to get away.”
Cold ran down his back. “How do you know?”
“Something about the way he was trying to hit my motorcycle might have given him away.” Mari placed her hands on her hips, but her lower lip trembled slightly. “The guy was wearing dark glasses, a gray T-shirt, and a cowboy hat. Not much to go on. He was driving a black SUV with tinted windows.”
The same type of car that had rushed out of the hospital parking lot the night before. “Did you get the license plate number?”
Teasing sparks danced in her eyes, and her lip wasn’t trembling anymore. “Nope. I was too busy trying not to be run off the road. I’ll text Aidan about it regardless. By the way, I have doubts now you’re the one threatening me. You couldn’t be in SUV and your car at the same time.”
“Thanks. I think.” He heaved a sigh of relief. “I don’t believe you helped Antonio to kill those girls. And I’m sure you didn’t kill June.”
“Because I was at The Café at the time. You checked my alibi, didn’t you?” She narrowed her eyes.
“That, too. Do you trust me now?”
“I don’t have much choice. We have to find the murderer before he kills somebody else, me included. One more thing. I probably overreacted at home,” Mari said.
Luke opened his arms, and she accepted his embrace. He stroked her short hair, so soft under his fingertips, and her fragile shoulders, and his heart melted. How was it possible that in such a short time she’d become so important to him? Her fight was his fight now.
“I’ll keep you safe,” he whispered.
Mari was still alive, and he’d gained some of her trust back.
Probably just in time. It seemed that with Mari every extra day she lived was already a victory.
Alexa Verde fell in love with writing at age eight when she penned her first poem. After publishing 200 short stories, poems, and articles in the five languages she speaks, Alexa has turned her creative passion to writing novels. Her 2014 debut inspirational romantic suspense, COLOR OF DANGER, is the first in her Secrets of Rios Azules series—set in a fictional small Texas town where rivers and emotions run deep and the richest family in town has a taste for fine food, jewelry, and murder. For news, recipes, giveaways, and more, please visit www.alexaverde.com. Answers to 5 quickie questions:
Ice Tea or Lemonade? Ice Tea
Lake or ocean? Ocean
Sandals or Flipflops? Sandals
Sit in the shadow of a tree or on the front/back porch? Front porch
Ball cap or floppy hat? Floppy hat
Thanks Alexa, for sharing,
Tina
