Sharon Wray's Blog, page 6

Golden Summer Romantic Reads

Golden Summer (once called Indian Summer) is that gorgeous stretch between the heat of summer and the crispness of fall with warm afternoons, cooler nights, long shadows, and a sense of nostalgia in the air. It’s a season of reflection, second chances, and lingering romance. If you’re craving books that capture that feeling, here are women’s fiction novels that embody the warmth and wistfulness of a Golden Summer.

All book blurbs courtesy of Amazon (I am not an affiliate so there are no affiliate links in this post).

Contemporary women’s fictionSeptember by Rosamund Pilcher

Set in the Scottish Highlands, this novel captures the golden days of late summer as family and friends gather for a birthday celebration. With its themes of love, renewal, and family ties, it feels like a crisp September breeze with sunlight still lingering.

AMAZON BLURB:

A place you will never forget. Rosamunde Pilcher’s Scotland…where the fields flourish with greenery, the bills bloom with purple, and the lochs glitter with the bright blue of the sky.

A time you will never forget. September…when the heather is in full flower, the first chill of autumn cools the air, and the countryside stirs with the hunt, balls, dinner parties, and dance.

contemporary Women’s FictionIndian Summer by Marcia Willett

A gentle, tender novel about friendship, family secrets, and unexpected love, this story is infused with countryside charm and the mellow tones of summer fading into autumn.

AMAZON BLURB:

For renowned actor Sir Mungo, his quiet home village in Devon provides the perfect retreat. Close by are his brother and his wife, and the rural location makes his home the ideal getaway for his old friends in London. Among those is Kit, who comes to stay for the summer, bringing with her a letter from her first and only love, Jake, and a heart in turmoil. Years have passed since they last saw each other, and now he has written to Kit asking to meet again. 

As the summer unfolds, secrets are uncovered that will shatter the sleepy community, and even tear a family apart. But those involved soon realize that the only way to move forward might be to confront the past…

Contemporary women’s FictionLate Summer in the Vineyard by Jo Thomas

Romance, vineyards, and the harvest season in France—this book is a love letter to late summer, full of wine-making traditions, second chances, and the warmth of community.

AMAZON BLURB:

Emmy Bridges has always looked out for others. Now it’s time to put down roots of her own. Working for a wine-maker in France is the opportunity of a lifetime for Emmy. Even if she doesn’t know a thing about wine – beyond what’s on offer at the local supermarket.

There’s plenty to get to grips with in the rustic town of Petit Frère. Emmy’s new work friends need more than a little winning over. Then there’s her infuriatingly brash tutor, Isaac, and the enigmatic Madame Beaumont, tucked away in her vineyard of secrets.

But Emmy will soon realise that in life – just as in wine-making – the best things happen when you let go and trust your instincts. Particularly when there’s romance in the air…

Contemporary Women’s FictionGarden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen

For a magical twist, this enchanting novel is full of late-summer gardens, family bonds, and whimsical touches of romance. It feels like dusk in an orchard, with a hint of magic in the air.

AMAZON BLURB:

The Waverleys have always been a curious family, endowed with peculiar gifts that make them outsiders in their hometown of Bascom, North Carolina. Even their garden has a reputation, famous for its feisty apple tree that bears prophetic fruit, and its edible flowers, imbued with special powers. Generations of Waverleys have tended this garden. Their history is in the soil. But so are their futures.

A successful caterer, Claire Waverley prepares dishes made with her mystical plants—from the nasturtiums that aid in keeping secrets and the pansies that make children thoughtful, to the snapdragons intended to discourage the attentions of her amorous neighbor. Meanwhile, her elderly cousin, Evanelle, is known for distributing unexpected gifts whose uses become uncannily clear. They are the last of the Waverleys—except for Claire’s rebellious sister, Sydney, who fled Bascom the moment she could, abandoning Claire, as their own mother had years before.

When Sydney suddenly returns home with a young daughter of her own, Claire’s quiet life is turned upside down—along with the protective boundary she has so carefully constructed around her heart. Together again in the house where they grew up, Sydney takes stock of all she left behind as Claire struggles to heal the wounds of the past. And soon the sisters realize they must deal with their common legacy—if they are ever to feel at home in Bascom—or with each other.

contemporary women’s fictionThe Summer of Sunshine and Margot by Susan Mallery

A heartwarming romance about two sisters finding love and happiness while navigating life’s twists. Mallery’s signature warmth makes this a breezy read with an undercurrent of late-summer soulfulness.

AMAZON BLURB:

As an etiquette coach, Margot teaches her clients to fit in. But she’s never faced a client like Bianca, an aging movie star who gained fame—and notoriety—through a campaign of shock and awe. Schooling Bianca on the fine art of behaving like a proper diplomat’s wife requires intensive lessons, forcing Margot to move into the monastery turned mansion owned by the actress’s intensely private son. Like his incredible home, Alec’s stony exterior hides secret depths Margot would love to explore. But will he trust her enough to let her in?

Sunshine has always been the good-time sister, abandoning jobs to chase after guys who used her, then threw her away. No more. She refuses to be “that girl” again. This time, she’ll finish college, dedicate herself to her job as a nanny, and she 100 percent will not screw up her life again by falling for the wrong guy. Especially not the tempting single dad who also happens to be her boss.

contemporary women’s fictionThe Summer House by Hannah McKinnon

Second chances, forgiveness, and romance all come together in this story set by the water. It’s perfect for that moment when the days are still warm, but the nights are growing cooler.

AMAZON BLURB:

Flossy Merrill has managed to—somewhat begrudgingly—gather her three ungrateful grown children from their dysfunctional lives for a summer reunion at the family’s Rhode Island beach house. Clementine, her youngest child and a young mother of two small children, has caused Flossy the most worry after enduring a tragically life-altering year. But Samuel and his partner Evan are not far behind in their ability to alarm: their prospective adoption search has just taken a heart-wrenching turn. Only Paige, the eldest of the headstrong Merrill clan, is her usual self: arriving precisely on time with her well-adapted teens. Little does her family know that she, too, is facing personal struggles of her own.

No matter. With her family finally congregated under one seaside roof, Flossy is determined to steer her family back on course even as she prepares to reveal the fate of the summer house that everyone has thus far taken for granted: she’s selling it. The Merrill children are both shocked and outraged and each returns to memories of their childhoods at their once beloved summer house—the house where they have not only grown up, but from which they have grown away. With each lost in their respective heartaches, Clementine, Samuel, and Paige will be forced to reconsider what really matters before they all say goodbye to a house that not only defined their summers, but, ultimately, the ways in which they define themselves. 

contemporary women’s fictionSummer at the Lake by Erica James

Romance, friendship, and new beginnings unfold by the water in this warmhearted novel. It’s a story that feels like the golden hour—hopeful, nostalgic, and luminous.

AMAZON BLURB:

For Floriana, it is the place where the love of her life is getting married to another woman. And she’s been invited to the wedding.

Esme fell in love there for the first time – over sixty years ago. But what happened to the man who stole her heart, and changed the course of her life?

Adam has buried himself in work to distract from his broken heart. A trip to Lake Como might just be the fresh start he needs…

Even in the dazzling summer sun, the past casts a poignant shadow… But can the magic of the Italian lake finally set them all free? 

historical women’s fictionThe Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson

Set in an English village on the brink of World War I, this novel is both romantic and poignant, with late-summer beauty shadowed by change.

AMAZON BLURB:

East Sussex, 1914. It is the end of England’s brief Edwardian summer, and everyone agrees that the weather has never been so beautiful. Hugh Grange, down from his medical studies, is visiting his Aunt Agatha, who lives with her husband in the small, idyllic coastal town of Rye. Agatha’s husband works in the Foreign Office, and she is certain he will ensure that the recent saber rattling over the Balkans won’t come to anything. And Agatha has more immediate concerns; she has just risked her carefully built reputation by pushing for the appointment of a woman to replace the Latin master.

When Beatrice Nash arrives with one trunk and several large crates of books, it is clear she is significantly more freethinking—and attractive—than anyone believes a Latin teacher should be. For her part, mourning the death of her beloved father, who has left her penniless, Beatrice simply wants to be left alone to pursue her teaching and writing.

But just as Beatrice comes alive to the beauty of the Sussex landscape and the colorful characters who populate Rye, the perfect summer is about to end. For despite Agatha’s reassurances, the unimaginable is coming. Soon the limits of progress, and the old ways, will be tested as this small Sussex town and its inhabitants go to war.

contemporary women’s fictionDistant Shores by Kristin Hannah

A poignant women’s fiction novel about love, marriage, and rediscovering yourself in midlife. With its emotional depth, it has the wistfulness of a long Indian summer sunset.

AMAZON BLURB:

Elizabeth and Jackson Shore married young, raised two daughters, and weathered the storms of youth as they built a family. From a distance, their lives look picture perfect. But after the girls leave home, Jack and Elizabeth quietly drift apart. When Jack accepts a wonderful new job, Elizabeth puts her own needs aside to follow him across the country.

Then tragedy turns Elizabeth’s world upside down. In the aftermath, she questions everything about her life—her choices, her marriage, even her long-forgotten dreams. In a daring move that shocks her husband, friends, and daughters, she lets go of the woman she has become—and reaches out for the woman she wants to be.

Women’s FictionThe Forever Summer by Jamie Brenner

A multigenerational story of secrets, family ties, and unexpected connections, set in a Cape Cod beach house. It’s a novel that feels like late-summer sun with a hint of autumn nostalgia.

AMAZON BLURB:

Marin Bishop has always played by the rules, and it’s paid off: at twenty-eight she has a handsome fiancée, a prestigious Manhattan legal career, and the hard-won admiration of her father. But one moment of weakness leaves Marin unemployed and alone, all in a single day.

Then a woman claiming to be Marin’s half-sister shows up, and it’s all Marin can do not to break down completely. Seeking escape, Marin agrees to a road trip to meet the grandmother she never knew she had. As the summer unfolds at her grandmother’s quaint beachside B&B, it becomes clear that the truth of her half-sister is just the beginning of revelations that will change Marin’s life forever. The Forever Summer is a delicious page-turner and a provocative exploration of what happens when our notions of love, truth, and family are put to the ultimate test.

Historical/Fantasy Women’s FictionThe Rose Garden by Susanna Kearsley

A wistful, time-slip novel about grief and love, set in Cornwall. Perfect for readers who love the feeling of golden evenings that stretch a little too long.

AMAZON BLURB:

After the death of her sister, Eva Ward leaves Hollywood and all its celebrities behind to return to the only place she feels she truly belongs, the old house on the coast of Cornwall, England. She’s seeking comfort in memories of childhood summers, but what she finds is mysterious voices and hidden pathways that sweep her not only into the past, but also into the arms of a man who is not of her time.

Soon Eva discovers that the man, Daniel Butler, is very, very real and he draws her into a world of intrigue, treason, and love. Inside the old British house, begins to question her place in the present, she realizes she must decide where she really belongs: in the life she knows or the past she feels so drawn towards.

Save the Date is Almost Gone

I can’t believe how fast the summer has gone. Save the Date, a wedding romance anthology I’m in, came out in June and it leaves forever on October 18th. It seems like I was celebrating a release week, and now there’s only a month left before this anthology disappears. This anthology includes my Kingsmill Courtships series novella A Room with a Groom. It’s the story of Ben Mosby and Sophie Sinclair, an engaged couple who are desperate to make it to their wedding on time. But when they’re forced to face their past, hours before they’re supposed to say their I Do’s, Sophie has to decide if she’s strong enough to save both of them. This novella actually came out last year, in a shorter form, and when I had the opportunity to add words and join this anthology, I took it. So I’m excited to share it again, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I loved writing it!

It’s almost gone!Save the DateA Limited Edition Wedding Romance Collection 

You are cordially invited…

The cake is ordered, the dresses are tailored, and the guests are ready—love is in the air, and it’s time to Save the Date!

From grand celebrations to intimate elopements, Save the Date is filled with heart-warming and swoon-worthy tales of love found, lost, and rediscovered on the road to happily ever after.

Perfect for readers who believe in the magic of love and the romance of weddings, this anthology is your invitation to fall in love, one story at a time.

Authors include:

Kathleen Ryder
Laura M. Baird
Susan Horsnell
Sharon Michalove
Gabbi Grey
VK Holt
Clarice Jayne
Sharon Wray

Freyja Frost
Harper Michaels
Carrie DiRisio
Deaia Sanders
Michelle Moncrieff
Kristine Charles
Alexa Santi
JCC Downing

Available now! ↦Almost Gone!A Room with a Groom

Will these star-crossed lovers make it to the church on time?

Ben Mosby, a former member of an outlaw motorcycle club, has reformed his life. As the sheriff of Kingsmill, VA, he’s determined to keep his small mountain town safe, and he’s given his heart to Sophie Sinclair, the only woman he’s ever loved. But on the eve of their long-awaited wedding, a rival outlaw MC from Ben’s old life roars back, carrying a violent grudge.

Sophie has overcome poverty, homelessness, and an outlaw biker ex-boyfriend. And now that she’s been reunited with Ben, the love of her life, she won’t allow any of that sadness to define her future. She’s even found the perfect wedding dress in a town hours away from Kingsmill. But as they return for their rehearsal dinner, their future is put to the ultimate test. 

With forest fires raging and outlaw bikers chasing them, their journey to the altar becomes a desperate fight for survival. Old demons resurface and alliances are tested. And when they seek refuge in an isolated cabin, surrounded by danger, Sophie must decide if their love is strong enough to douse the flames of their past. If not, she may lose Ben forever. 

Available now! ↦

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler Bars

I can’t believe it’s September, and I’m so grateful for the cooler weather. Today I’m using up the last of the fresh peaches in these Brown Sugar Peach Cobbler Bars. They are perfect for an early fall dessert, but I’ve been known to eat them for breakfast or with my afternoon tea. This recipe isn’t hard, but there are are few steps and more ingredients than my other recipes. Still, they are a delicious way to enjoy the last flavors of summer.

KINGSMILL REHEARSAL DINNER MENU SERIES

Welcome to my Kingsmill Rehearsal Dinner Menu series inspired by the fictional wedding celebration in my new story, A Room with a Groom (from Save the Date Anthology). This blog series brings the charm of small-town Kingsmill to your summer table. 

This love story unfolds in the heart of the Virginia mountains, and features a rehearsal dinner held near the town’s historic 18th-century mill, along the Shenandoah River. For the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing the seasonal recipes from that riverside celebration and today’s recipe is Peach Cobbler Bars.

[image error] PrintBrown Sugar Peach Cobbler BarsCourse DessertKeyword BarsPrep Time 45 minutes minutesCook Time 1 hour hourChilling time 4 hours hoursServings 12Calories 545kcalIngredientsFILLING:1 cup light brown sugar3 Tablespoons cornstarch½ teaspoon ground cinnamon¼ teaspoon ground ginger⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg8 cups pitted, peeled, and diced fresh peaches 8 peaches1 Tablespoon orange zest2 Tablespoons fresh orange juiceCRUST:3 cups flour1 cup quick oats1 cup light brown sugar1½ teaspoons baking powder1 teaspoon Kosher salt1 cup cold unsalted butter cubed1 large egg½ cup sour cream1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract1 cup whipped cream for garnishInstructionsPreheat the oven to 350℉. Line a 13"x9" baking pan with parchment paper. Make the parchment paper longer on the short edges so it overhangs by at least 2" on either end (you will need this overhang to pull the bars out after they are baked). Spray the bottom with baking spray and then coat lightly with flour. Set aside.Peach FillingIn a large bowl, gently stir together the brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Then, very gently, stir in the peaches, orange zest, and orange juice. Stir until well combined and set aside.CrustIn another large bowl, whisk together the flour, oats, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Then, using two knives (or a pastry blender) cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly, the size of small peas. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir the egg/sour cream mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix until combined (but don't over mix). The dough will be crumbly and bit dry, but that's okay. Press 3/4 of the dough into the prepared baking dish. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Reserve the remaining 1/4 part of the dough for the topping.Remove the crust from the oven and spread the peach filling over the hot crust. Sprinkle the remaining uncooked dough over the top and bake for another 45-50 minutes, until lightly browned and filling is bubbly. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool completely. Refrigerate until set overnight (or a minimum of 4 hours).Once the bars are cooled, use the parchment paper to pull the bars out of the pan. Place on a cutting board and cut into bars, small or large, your choice. Serve with a side of whipped cream or ice cream.

September Book Fairs and Reading Events

In a few weeks, I’m being interviewed on the Isn’t it Romantic Book Club! We’ll be discussing my novella A Room with a Groom in the wedding romance anthology Save the Date. The details are below, and I’ve also included a number of other reading events and free books for September. It’s also time to get ready for the annual FALL INTO A BOOK event coming next week!

1The Isn’t it Romantic Book Club Group Monthly Livestream

There’s been a change in the date… The Isn’t It Romantic Book Club Group will be live-streaming Thursday, September 18th at 3 pm EST, while we interview Sharon Wray (me!) and my new Kingsmill Courtships novella A Room with a Groom that is currently for sale in the Save the Date wedding romance anthology. It’ll be live-streamed on our YouTube channel and we hope you’ll join us there!

2The Isn’t it Romantic Book Club Group Fall into a Book Giveaway

It’s time for the The Isn’t It Romantic Book Club Group‘s annual Fall into a Book Giveaway event on Facebook beginning on September 18th! We have over 300 authors joining us this year, and there will be lots of prizes, free books, and tons of swag. We are looking forward to meeting you there!

Free Books for September A Shot Worth Taking by Tracy Brody

FBI Linguist Angela Hoffman is no stranger to high-stakes missions, but her current one raises a new threat. Sent undercover to track a dangerous terrorist, Angela’s past collides with the present when her mission converges with Sergeant First Class Tony Vincenti and his elite Bad Karma Special Ops team. Scarred by past betrayals, along with threats from her past, have made Angela swear off serious relationships. She and Tony posed as lovers in the past. Now, she is forced to confront her lingering attraction to the soldier she can’t allow herself to want.

On Tony’s prior undercover op with Angela, their lives depended on selling themselves as lovers. It also meant sticking to their roles. Now, as they race against time to prevent a terror attack, Tony has more on the line than the mission. He’s determined to prove to Angela that her past won’t stand in the way of their future together.

But when Angela becomes the target of a lethal threat, trust becomes a matter of life and death. As danger close in, Angela must reveal her secrets—and her heart—to Tony, or risk losing everything. Can Tony protect the woman he loves and convince her they’re worth the ultimate gamble?

Heat level: Steamy. Contains sexual content/on the page. Not overly explicit.
Profanity: Moderate (These are military characters)
Contains hunky heroes, a strong female heroine, and a military working dog.

Get it for free now! Someone in the Water by Katie Mettner

Spring Lewis knows death. As a nurse in the ICU, she has experienced more than her fair share of it. The difference is, she is acutely aware not everyone who dies stays in the afterlife.

Vince Roundtree is tired. Tired of living life alone and where his health takes a back seat to his career as a music professor. His nightly walks along the river help clear his head and strengthen his body, but he never expects to find his heart there too.

Spring and Vince find themselves walking a path of forgiveness, understanding, and acceptance, but their rose-colored glasses blind them to the dangerous shadow lurking in the darkness. When Spring breaks her silence about the people in the water, the reaper comes calling, and it will be up to Vince to save her from certain death before time runs out.

Get it for free now! Blind Sided by Gwen Hernandez

A hacker framed for espionage. A sniper hot on her trail. Enemies who can’t resist falling in love.

Framed for divulging state secrets, reformed hacker Valerie Sanchez has no choice but to run. Worse, when the proof of her innocence is destroyed, things turn fatal. She must decide if the sexy special operator who mysteriously turns up to protect her is an ally or the real threat.

Scott Kramer’s job was supposed to be easy. Follow the hot computer geek who stole plans for classified weapons until she meets her buyer, then let law enforcement take over. But when Valerie becomes an assassin’s target, Scott’s gut says she’s innocent. Now, he must risk his life—and his heart—to keep her safe.

Get it for free now! Challenge My Heart by Diane Wiggs

Hotdish isn’t the only thing heating up in Ashwood.

Restaurant owner Bel Holloway’s nana passed down her cat and café to her granddaughter when she died, along with two rules. #1- Don’t share the award-winning recipes. #2- Never share the secret catering client list.

Detective Tanner Malone strolled into Miss Mabel’s thinking this would be a typical attempted smash-and-grab, but it soon becomes apparent that someone wants more than delicious food from the savory café owner.

Bel might be sweet as pie, but is reluctant to share her client list, even if it’s vital to the case. Can Tanner protect her when she starves his investigation for details?

Get it for free now! In Paradise with Someone Like Him by Susanna Eastman

Floral designer Anna is desperate to break the bonds of her loving but smothering family, her boss’s empty promises, and the humiliation of a broken engagement months before the wedding. Except she has no idea how to change her life until she discovers a Caribbean sex club called Fantasy. Fantasy, a luxurious realm shrouded in secrecy, promises anonymous, consensual ecstasy and a chance for Anna to redefine herself. Amidst this newfound-yet-unsettling freedom, Anna encounters Jacob, a handsome man with secrets of his own.  

Jacob, a charismatic billionaire who owns the lavish Caribbean resort hosting Fantasy, has doubts. While his wealth and power have allowed him to create a haven for those seeking clandestine desires and untamed passion, he’s not sure if this is the right direction to take his company. Things become complicated when he meets Anna, a beautiful woman seeking to change her life, and he experiences a connection that challenges the foundation of his controlled, unforgiving world. Although Fantasy requires anonymity, Jacob knows his secrets could ruin his future with Anna. A future he didn’t know he wanted. A future he’s desperate to save, even if he has to break his own rules.

Will Anna and Jacob’s rendezvous of passion and discovery lead them on separate paths? Or will their powerful connection offer them a chance at love that transcends the bounds of Fantasy?

Get it for free now! It’s All in the Hips by Diana Munoz Stewart

Winning the Fit for The World prize money is Yolanda Vasquez’s last chance at saving her family business. But to win it, she’ll have to face show creator Easton Blake––a steamy one-night stand she’s never forgotten––while also taking on the big kids of fitness. One of whom isn’t playing fair.

Yolanda Vasquez

Ten-plus years ago, I spent one glorious night with a hot stranger visiting Puerto Rico. Today, that heartthrob is a global health icon giving away millions on a reality fitness show. I really need that money to rescue my family business, am pretty sure I can win, and mostly sure he won’t remember me.

Easton Blake

I spent a decade building Fit for The World gym franchises, but after a reputation-ruining mistake, my board wants me out. Vowing to repair my image on a groundbreaking reality show is a huge gamble. One that turns dicey when the hottest hookup of my life makes the competition, and the other contestants quickly see her as a threat. Yeah. This can’t be what my board meant by reviving my public persona.

Knowing the disaster any romance would bring, Easton and Yolanda struggle to ignore their flaming-hot chemistry, but when someone schemes to drive Yolanda from the show, they join forces to stop them. Will their undeniable heat catch fire and burn down their worlds before they can eliminate the threat?

Get it for free now! Alaska Wild by Lolo Paige

What happens before that fateful day where Tara and Ryan collide on the Montana fire that leads them both to Alaska, in Alaska Spark? Read their origin story to find out!

Read what happens before Tara and Ryan meet up in Alaska Spark!

Ryan O’Connor’s hotshot fire crew pulls out all the stops to save a trapped family in a Southern California firestorm. But when his crew is unable to reach them in time, Ryan considers the loss a personal failure. He decides to apply and train with the Delta Force of wildland fire—the Alaska Smokejumpers. If Ryan can survive the ball-busting training, his life will be on a new trajectory…one that could lead him to the woman of his dreams. Tara Waters loves being a wildland firefighter and has worked hard to prove herself capable. But when a hunky Missoula smokejumper aims his parachute at Tara, her worlds collide when her father dooms the relationship to fail. The path she then chooses will set a new course..toward a wildfire with searing flames she’s powerless to fight.

Get it for free now! How to Unbreak a Heart by Jennie Marts

Solitary cowboy, Trip Turner walked out on the love of his life twelve years ago, breaking her heart and landing in juvenile detention. Now he’s back in Saddle Creek, Montana, at the dude ranch for wayward teens, where his mentor, John Stone, taught him the rules of how to become a man. But a tragedy has reminded Trip he failed to follow one of those rules. And it could have been the most important one of all.

Bre Wilson had moved on with her life—she has a successful veterinary practice, and she’s put all thoughts of Trip Turner, the boy she’d planned to spend the rest of her life with, behind her. Or so she thought. Because he’s back, and no longer a boy. Now he’s a hot-as-hell man, and she has to spend the next two weeks working by his side without either kissing him or killing him. Trip let Bre go once, he won’t do it again. He has a second chance to fix the mistakes he made all of those years ago, and this time he’s following the rules. He just needs to figure out how to unbreak her heart. 

Get it for free now! Risking Trust by Adrienne Giordano

Michael Taylor is cooler than ice. As CEO of a private security company, his job means protecting those at risk. But now Michael is the one in trouble—he’s the prime suspect in his ex-wife’s murder. To prove his innocence, he needs not just a few good men, but one smart woman.

Get it for free now!

A Christmas Cabin Proposal Cover Reveal

This coming holiday season, I’m collaborating with a wonderful group of authors in another holiday-themed anthology called Snowed in with You. This anthology comes out on November 12, 2025, and I’m so excited to be a part of this project. And today, I want to share the cover and blurb for my story within this anthology. It’s a new novella in my Kingsmill Courtships series called A Christmas Cabin Proposal.

This story is a continuation of the love story between Abe Mosby and Holly Thibodeaux which began in One Night by Firelight, a novella in the Heroes, Holidays, and Hope Vol. 3 Charity Anthology that comes out on December 6th. (Yes, I know. Like I’ve said a million times before, publishing is weird. But all of the proceeds of this upcoming anthology, which takes place on Memorial Day, go to Wounded Warrior Project). Anyway, this new Christmas novella follows Abe and Daphne’s love story when they are unexpectedly snowed in and are forced to face an uncertain future due to their past choices and long-held regrets. This novella has a happily ever after with all of the holiday and Christmas feels, and I hope you love it as much as I loved writing it!

A Christmas Cabin Proposal

They planned on a quiet weekend away. They didn’t plan on forever.

Prima ballerina Daphne Thibodeaux is rebuilding her life one pirouette, one brave choice, and one Nutcracker performance at a time. Meanwhile Abe Mosby, her boyfriend and a former Army Ranger, is launching his dream business in the Virginia mountains and carrying a diamond ring he hopes she’ll agree to wear.

But when a Christmas snowstorm strands them in a remote cabin, long-buried fears and fragile hopes resurface, threatening their future. As firelight flickers and old identities melt away, they must face the past and make a choice: let each other go… or leap into love with their whole hearts.

This novella will be included in the Snowed In With You Holiday Anthology coming 11/12/2025!

This anthology includes the following authors:

Linda G. Hill

Anna Allen

Cynthia Terelst

Michelle Moncrieff

Gracin Sawyer

Emma Lynn Everly

MacKade

Ebony Snow

Sofia Aves

Toni Denise

Deaia Sanders

Kalli Dean

Laura M. Baird

Chelle Pimblott

Skylar M. Cates

Lexi Haven

Clarice Jayne

Chele MacCabe

Bonnie Poirier

Sharon Wray

Snowed in with YouA Contemporary Romance Collection

When the snow falls, sparks fly.

Snowed In With You is a collection of contemporary romance novellas filled with unexpected love and the magic of winter. When blizzards hit and temperatures drop, strangers, friends, and even enemies are forced into close quarters, discovering that sometimes being snowed in is exactly what they need to find their happily ever after.

From secluded cabins to bustling lodges, each story captures the feeling of being snowed in—where the world slows down and love takes center stage.

Perfect for readers who crave romance with a dose of forced proximity, crackling fireplaces, and cozy winter settings, Snowed In With You will warm your heart even on the coldest of nights.

Preorder Snowed in with you here!

Preparing for Fall

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, the nature of emergencies shifts too. While summer often calls us to endure heatwaves, wildfires, or hurricane season, fall ushers in different risks, like power outages, early cold snaps, influenza, or even more fires worsening in the dry transition. Here’s how to thoughtfully pivot your preparedness and deepen your ability to respond with logic instead of panic.

Since September is also National Preparedness Month, it’s the perfect time to evaluate all of your emergency plans. Below I’ve laid out a quick and easy way to get started.

How to Shift Your Preps from Summer Readiness to Autumn Resilience1. Reassess and Replenish Your Emergency Kit

Summer supplies like extra water bottles or cooling aids may need rotation. Take stock and ensure expiry dates are current. Replace or restock essentials like batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable foods. FEMA’s Ready.gov offers guidance on building and maintaining emergency kits, perfect for fall’s new demands.

2. Strengthen Your Home for Cooler Weather

Autumn invites maintenance that protects against winter’s onset. Inspect and weather-strip doors and windows, clean gutters, and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. The Dallas Office of Emergency Management highlights some of this season’s pivotal home prep actions. (I don’t live in Texas, but this is a good resource for anyone)

3. Prepare for Heating and Power Shifts

As temperatures dip, plan for reliable heating options. Test your space heaters, examine chimneys, or inspect your generator to ensure good performance in colder conditions. (Refer to your generator guide for details.) Also, stock safe heating fuel if needed. The CDC’s winter prep page offers excellent home and vehicle readiness tips to keep in mind.

4. Update Your Emergency Communications and Family Plan

Summer disruptions often center on sudden storms or evacuations. As fall approaches, clarify plans for potential electrical grid failures or flu-related self-isolation. Revisit and practice your household’s emergency communication plan. Ready.gov encourages tailoring these plans for changing seasons. And local alert systems—like NOAA’s and your community municipal services—are especially crucial as winter weather or emergencies approach.

5. Restock Medical and Health Essentials

With cooler temperatures comes flu season. Ensure first-aid kits, over-the-counter medications, and hygiene items (like sanitizer and tissues) are replenished. The CDC emphasizes maintaining health in emergencies, something that applies to seasonal shifts as much as to major disasters.

6. Comfort-Boost Your Preps for Fall

Fall may bring cozy evenings, but it can also bring stresses like isolation or extended power outages. Consider adding comfort items like warm blankets, tea, board games, or candles. And don’t forget your favorite snacks!

7. Check Your Insurance & Important Documents

Fall storms or early snow can cause property damage. Review your insurance coverage, especially for flood or land-movement issues, which may not be standard. Keep digital backups of important documents protected and accessible.

Trusted Resources at a Glance: Ready.Gov National Preparedness MonthCDC Disaster GuideCDC Preparing for Winter StormsNOAA for National Weather AlertsDallas Autumn Prep TipsBuilding a Family Home Emergency BinderBuilding a Family Emergency PlanComfort Items for Fall Emergencies Final Thoughts:

As summer cools into fall, your prepping isn’t about starting from scratch. It’s about adaptation. By refreshing supplies, enhancing your health readiness, and focusing on comfort and documentation, you set yourself up for a smoother, more secure transition into fall’s rhythm.

Favorite End of Summer Movies

I know I recently wrote about my favorite romantic summer movies and favorite summer movies with a witchy/Halloween vibe. But now that we’re in September, I’m struggling to let summer go. Why? Because there’s something about the end of summer that carries a sense of magic. Those last golden sunsets, the bittersweet feeling of change in the air, and the fleeting romances that seem to glow brightest just before the season fades.

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It’s no wonder so many films capture this in-between time, when love stories unfold against the backdrop of warm nights giving way to cooler days. Whether it’s a seaside fling, a moment of rediscovery, or the tension of knowing the season won’t last forever, these movies embody the heart-tugging essence of summer’s end.

Some of these movies are older movies, and a few are rom-coms, but all of them are filled with the end-of-summer vibes. Many are family-friendly and some are for adult audiences only. So pop the popcorn and jump in because these films are here to remind you that those end-of-summer feelings can last all year long.

I’ve not included links to the streaming services because the rights to movies are constantly being sold between the services so it’s hard to keep up. All trailers courtesy of YouTube.

 Favorite End of Summer Movies 1. Adventureland (2009)

A coming-of-age romance set against the backdrop of a rundown amusement park during one last summer before adulthood.

2. Moonrise Kingdom (2012)

A whimsical, nostalgic tale of young love and adventure during a single summer on a New England island.

3. Say Anything (1989)

Begins in the final days of high school (summer’s edge), ends with going off to college in England, and explores the fragile sweetness of young love.

4. Endless love (2014)

I prefer the 2014 version to the 1981 film, but both versions center on the intensity of a romance ignited during the summer months.

5. A Little Romance (1979)

Two young teens meet in Paris one summer, capturing the fleeting magic of youthful love.

6. Mystic Pizza (1988)

Small-town coastal vibes with love stories entwined in the last days of carefree youth. And it’s one of my favorites since I’ve been to Mystic, CT and eaten pizza there!

7. Summer of ’42 (1971)

A coming-of-age romance framed in nostalgia for summers past.

8. forgetting sarah marshall (2008)

A breakup, a new romance, and a Hawaiian setting that fits the “last-chance summer” vibe.

9. Nights in rodanthe (2008)

A windswept romance on the coast as summer wanes. With Richard Gere.

10.stealing beauty (1996)

Romantic and lush, set in the Tuscan countryside during a summer of self-discovery.

11. Now and Then (1995)

Nostalgia, friendship, and growing up during one pivotal summer.

12. One Crazy Summer (1986)

A fun, quirky summer comedy with a sweet romance in the mix.

13. Before Sunrise (1995)

A fleeting, deeply romantic connection over one night that captures the impermanence of summer love.

14. The last song (2010)

Set during a transformative summer at the beach, full of love and loss.

15. 500 days of summer (2009)

More metaphorical, but it embodies the bittersweet impermanence of love and changing seasons.

The Hungry {Romance} Writer: Herb Marinated Flank Steak

Another week has come and gone, and we’re that much closer to cooker weather. But since I’m still using the grill to keep the kitchen cool, tonight I’m making my favorite Herb Marinated Flank Steak. This recipe isn’t hard, but it does require at least two hours to marinate in the refrigerator. It goes well with a simple salad or coleslaw, but I love to serve it with my Southern Broccoli Slaw.

KINGSMILL REHEARSAL DINNER MENU SERIES

Welcome to my Kingsmill Rehearsal Dinner Menu series inspired by the fictional wedding celebration in my new story, A Room with a Groom (from Save the Date Anthology). This blog series brings the charm of small-town Kingsmill to your summer table. 

This love story unfolds in the heart of the Virginia mountains, and features a rehearsal dinner held near the town’s historic 18th-century mill, along the Shenandoah River. For the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing the seasonal recipes from that riverside celebration and today’s recipe is Herb Marinated Flank Steak.

[image error] PrintHerb Marinated Flank SteakCourse Main CourseKeyword BeefPrep Time 15 minutes minutesCook Time 10 minutes minutesResting Time 10 minutes minutesServings 6Ingredients2 pounds flank steak¼ cup olive oil3 Tablespoon soy sauce2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce3 cloves garlic minced1 Tablespoon fresh lemon juice1 Tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)1 Tablespoon fresh thyme chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to tasteInstructionsMarinadeUsing a medium sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, Kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper.Put the flank steak in a large resealable plastic bag and add the marinade. Toss the meat and marinade in the bag until the meat is coated and put back into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. Cooking the BeefPreheat the grill with medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade bag and allow it to sit in a shallow dish for 15 minutes before cooking. Then grill the meat for 5 minutes on either side (for medium-rare). Or keep cooking until it hits your favorite temperature.Move the steak to a platter and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Then cut the meat against the grain and serve immediately.

Power When it Matters

A few months ago we discussed building a Family Emergency Binder and a Family Emergency Plan. Then, a few weeks ago, I wrote about what to do in case of power outages , wildfires, heatwaves, tornadoes, and hurricanes. Those posts discuss about how to protect your family from disasters and how to rebuild your life after an emergency. But now we’ve discussed how to prepare for these disasters, let’s talk about one of the biggest issues caused by these events: Power Outages.

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When disaster strikes—be it a summer storm, winter blackout, or unexpected grid failure—a generator can be the difference between chaos and calm. A generator can be your guardian in the dark, but only if you choose carefully, install properly, and use respectfully. Treat it not as an afterthought, but as essential disaster prep: calculated, maintained, and ready. Let’s walk through what every homeowner should know.

How to Prepare, Use, and Select a Generator1. Assess Your Power Needs

Start by making a list of essentials: refrigerator, sump pump, lights, communication devices, heating/cooling systems, medical equipment, etc. Add up their running wattages, and account for starting wattages, typically about three times higher for motorized appliances like refrigerators or fans. Home Depot recommends using up to 90% of your generator’s capacity to avoid overload. Generac suggests adding around 20% extra capacity for flexibility and safety.

Consumer Reports article on choosing a generatorHome Depot article on choosing a generatorBriggs and Stratton article on choosing a generatorReady.gov page on all types of generators and safety fact sheets. 2. Choose the Right Type of Generator

Recognize the major types and their use cases:

Portable Generators: Affordable and mobile, great for temporary power needs This Old House article on how to choose a portable generator.Inverter Generators: Quieter, more fuel-efficient, and produce cleaner power for sensitive electronics Interesting Reddit thread on choosing generators. New York Post article on best generators, including inverter generators.Standby Generators: Permanently installed, fuel-efficient, and automatically engage during outages. Ideal for whole-home coverage but come with higher installation costs and require permits and expert setup Current (June 2025) Houston Chronicle article on choosing standby generators. Short Wikipedia entry about standby generators (not my first choice for a source, but it’s short and basic) 3. Consider Fuel Types and Installation

Your fuel choice (gasoline, propane, or natural gas) depends on availability and convenience:

Natural Gas: Reliable fuel source, requires connection to home gas line, doesn’t require refueling but may be vulnerable if lines are disrupted during a disasterBriggs and Stratton overview of generators (same link as above, but worth a reread)Propane: Cleaner, portable, great if you don’t have natural gas access. However, you’ll need adequate tank storage and monitoring Briggs and Stratton overview of generators (same link as above, but worth a reread)If powering home circuits directly, always have a licensed electrician install a transfer switch or interlock kit. This prevents dangerous backfeeding and protects utility workers and your electronics.Ready.gov page on all types of generators and safety fact sheets. 4. Safety First: Operation Best Practices

Even with the right generator, you must ensure safe operation:

Never operate indoors or in enclosed spaces—dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) can accumulate quickly American Red Cross fact sheet on using generators indoorsConsumer Reports article on generator safelyOSHA fact sheet on generator safetyAlways place the generator outdoors, on a dry surface, under a ventilated canopy—not under eaves or near windows/vents American Red Cross fact sheet on using generators outdoorsBetter Homes & Gardens article on using a generator outdoorsLet it cool completely before refueling to prevent fire risk from spilled fuel Interesting Power Equipment Forum discussion on letting the generator cool downUse heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords with three prongs or plug appliances directly into the generator American Red Cross discussion of extension cordsBig Rapids Pioneer article on extension cordsInstall CO detectors near sleeping areas and central locations to alert you to danger American Red Cross directions on using CO detectorsForensics Detector article on using CO detectors5. Keep It Ready: Maintenance and PrepRun your generator periodically to ensure it’s functional when needed.Store fuel safely, in approved containers, away from living areas and sources of heat Electric Generators Direct article on storing fuel propertyInspect cords and plugs for wear and damage—never use frayed or compromised connections OSHA fact sheet on generator safety Big Rapids Pioneer on checking for damage.Schedule regular maintenance, especially for standby units—most manufacturers or dealers recommend annual servicing Generac article on generator maintenanceBig Rapids Pioneer article on generator maintenanceTrusted Generator Preparedness ResourcesConsumer Reports on calculating wattage and choosing the right size generatorAmerican Red Cross guide for safe generator operations and critical CO cautions Home Depot for wattage examples and usage calculation guidance Generac outlines 10 key considerations when choosing a standby generatorOSHA safety fact sheet detailing shock, fire, and CO hazards for portable generatorsElectric Generators Direct article on how to store fuel safely. Ready.gov page on all types of generators and safety fact sheets.

Sarah Munro’s Sage Massage Oil

Summer is almost over, but the heat will probably continue through October, off and on. And this massage oil, which can also be used as a simple daily body moisturizer, is perfect for this time of year. This combination of sage, spearmint, and lemon grass oils is a great way to soothe dry and irritated skin. I use it after my bath or shower, and I buy my essential oils from Amazon or in my organic grocery store.

For those of you new to this series, Sarah Munro, the heroine in ONE DARK WISH, the second book in the Deadly Force series, is an 18th century historian who inherited a collection of colonial-era herbal and homeopathic remedies. And in this blog space, I’ve been sharing her recipes with you all. I’m adding this recipe to this collection because some studies have shown that sage oil has deodorizing properties, lemon grass oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and spearmint can clarify the skin and can help reduce redness and irritation.

Ingredients:

1 ounce almond oil (or other carrier oil)7 drops sage essential oil6 drops lemon balm essential oil4 drops spearmint essential oil[image error]Directions for Sage Massage OilSterilize a small jar with a tight-fitting lid.Starting with the carrier oil, add all the oils to the jar. Shake and place the jar in a cool, dry cabinet until ready to use..To use: Pour the oil your hands to warm it up and then rub it on your skin in a rhythmic motion.NOTE: This is a 2% strength oil so, if you’re using this on an elderly person or a young child, add another 1 ounce of almond oil to cut the strength by 50%. IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER ABOUT WILD PLANTS, FORAGING , AND MAKING HERBAL REMEDIES:

I am not a medical professional and nothing written on this blog is medical advice. None of my statements have been evaluated by the FDA (I am legally required to give you this disclaimer).

It is important to do your due diligence before foraging, harvesting, and/or consuming any type of medicinal plant.

If you are taking any medications, talk to your doctor about any potential drug interactions.If you are allergic to anything, make sure whatever you are foraging is not in the same family. Example: While dandelions are typically considered safe, those who are allergic to ragweed, latex, daisies, or any other plants in the same or similar families, may not be able to consume dandelion.

Always research potential side effects, dosage recommendations, and how to properly prepare and consume each medicinal plant.

Always make sure you are foraging what you believe to be. Fully prepare and study the anatomy before harvesting wild plants.

Always make sure your kitchen/work area is clean and that all materials are sterilized.

Do not forage plants from areas that have been sprayed within the past 2 years at the very least.

I am not legally or morally responsible for the health of any of my readers. Please do your own research!