Lily Graison's Blog, page 8

Friday First Kiss #104 :: Phoebe’s Promise by Kay P. Dawson (Historical Western Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

Phoebe’s Promise by Kay P. Dawson

“Colton, I think you should know what some of the people are saying. They think you are making bad decisions because of me.”  She swallowed hard as he kept his eyes on hers. She felt like she couldn’t speak above a whisper. “They’re questioning my reputation.”

He still hadn’t moved, one hand holding hers and the other with his thumb gently making circles that left her skin tingling on her cheek. His blue eyes stared into hers. The only indication that he’d even heard her was the clenching she could see in his jaw below the stubble that covered it.

Before she had time to react, he was leaning toward her and she felt his lips on hers. His hand went back and pulled her head closer. She could feel his hand tangle in her hair, caressing the soft curls that fell down past her shoulders.

His lips gently moved on hers, and she felt like the world around her was spinning. As soon as it had started, he sat back and let his hands fall. Standing up, he walked away before turning back to her.

She watched as he stood wrestling with what to say. He took his hat off and ran his hands through his thick black hair. “I’m sorry, Phoebe. I shouldn’t have done that.”

She still hadn’t quite caught her breath, her chest still heaving with the emotions of what had just happened.

“I promise your reputation will be completely safe with me. I will make sure the others don’t ever see anything to question otherwise.”  He pushed his hat back on his head. “Now, you better get in and make sure Grace is sleeping. You need your rest so we can get on the trail early.”

With that, he turned and walked away. She watched his retreating back until he was lost in the darkness of the night. Putting her fingers to her lips that were still tingling, she couldn’t move.

She knew he had promised to protect her reputation, but after what just happened, she wasn’t sure that’s what she even wanted.

 

 

 

Phoebe’s Promise by Kay P. Dawson

In order to keep a promise she made to her dying mother, Phoebe sets off with her younger sister to head across the country on a wagon train bound for Oregon. Dressed as a boy, all she has to do is find the captain of the outfit and convince him to take them along.



When Colton sees the young boy in front of him, he knows instantly it’s a woman – and he has no choice but to take them along. Their wagon is packed and ready to go.



The weeks ahead will bring many challenges, heartbreak and hardships. Does Phoebe have the strength to get them safely to Oregon? And, can she learn to trust Colton to help when it’s needed?

 

 

Get This Book

 

About KayP. Dawson

I am a stay at home mom, who loves to read and write clean historical romance. I enjoy thinking back to a simpler time, a time when men and women were true heroes. I also believe that a good romance can be told without needing to know all of the details;)

All of my stories will tell of people who find true love, and who find their happy ever after. Sometimes the road might be rocky, but that makes it all worthwhile!

You can find Kay online at the following links.

Website | Facebook | Fan Group | Newsletter | Amazon Author Page 

 

 

The post Friday First Kiss #104 :: Phoebe’s Promise by Kay P. Dawson (Historical Western Romance) appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #103 :: Christmas in Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels (Historical Western Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

Christmas in Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels

Brandon thought his heart stopped. Adam wasn’t Gabby’s. That explained why she was unprepared to travel with him. All his talk about orphanages had probably stopped her from telling him the truth. He had assumed Gabby was a widow and he hadn’t given her a chance to explain.

Pastor Don continued, “Is there a family willing to take little Adam in and raise him as their own?”

Not once voice was heard. Brandon looked around the church. Not one family was discussing it among themselves. He could understand why Logan and Elli wouldn’t be interested. She was with child, and some of the women thought she might be expecting two babies. Ethan and Sophia sat near them, a couple who wanted children, but they weren’t even talking to each other about it.

Brandon was confused. What’s going on? Can’t they see how perfect the boy is?

It continued with every couple he looked at. Nobody was discussing it.

Emma James spoke up. “What about marriage, Pastor? If she married, she could keep him. She said she wants the boy to have a father as well as a mother.”

The Pastor looked around the room. “Is there anyone willing to step up and marry Miss Wells, and take Adam as his own son?”

Again, nobody moved a muscle or spoke up. Axel wouldn’t even look in Brandon’s direction. He sat there cleaning his fingernails, not paying attention to the entire proceeding.

“What in the world is wrong with everyone?” Brandon yelled and stood up. “Can’t you see they’re already a family? She’s beautiful and a wonderful mother. She can cook and sew. I’ve seen some of the things she’s sewn for the baby. He’s the most perfect little boy I’ve seen. Who wouldn’t want both of them?”

The entire church turned to him at his outburst. Brandon crowded his way out of his pew. He practically ran to where Gabby stood.

On one knee, Brandon said, “Marry me, Gabby. I’ll give Adam the home he deserves.”

Tears filled Gabby’s eyes. She hesitated and shook her head slowly, no.

Brandon was in shock. She wouldn’t marry him. Not even to give Adam a home. He loved her, and she said no.

Losing her isn’t an option! He quickly and stood to face the congregation.

“Pa, get your shotgun. We spent four days alone in a cabin during the blizzard. That’s right, four days and nights, just the three of us. They took the cot and I slept on the floor. The details don’t matter. Pa, get moving. Get the gun and make her marry me.” Brandon’s Pa wasn’t moving and it looked like his Ma was trying not to smile.

“Sheriff, did you hear me? Four days alone in the same room? Eunice, Faye, Pastor Don, anyone? Someone is in here is armed and I know it. I demand someone get their gun out and uphold her reputation! I love this woman, and to protect her honor, she needs to marry me!”

The only one that moved was Gabby.

“You…you love me?” she asked.

“Of course I do, woman. I’ve loved you since I saw you holding the shotgun on me in the cabin, but I was too stubborn to admit it.” Brandon turned to Pastor Don, “Pastor, can you please get someone to force her to marry me? I can’t live my life without her at my side.”

“Yes,” said Gabby quietly.

“Yes, what?” Brandon asked her, still looking for anyone to help him.

“Yes, I’ll marry you.” Gabby said, with tears in her eyes.

“Yeth, yeth, yeth,” Adam repeated.

The women of the church relaxed. They were all looking at each other and smiling. This wasn’t their first plan that worked and it certainly wouldn’t be the last.

Brandon took them both in his arms. “I love you, Gabby. You and Adam are the best Christmas presents I could ever receive.”

“I love you, too, Brandon. Adam and I are blessed that it was you that found us in that cabin.”

“Well, if we’re all in agreement, I think we can go ahead and perform a wedding this Christmas Eve.” Pastor Don announced.

Brandon and Gabby nodded. His parents and Aunt Eunice gathered around them as the pastor said the needed words to make them a family. Marion Taylor held her new grandson proudly during the vows.

With a gentle kiss, Brandon and Gabby were now husband and wife.

Christmas in Trace Hollow by C.J. Samuels

Gabby Wells has spent her entire eighteen years living atop a mountain with her father. After she buries him, she knows her only option is to travel down the mountain to live with her Aunt Eunice. She finds a baby on her way down, whose parents had obviously died tragically. With the child, she finds shelter from a blizzard in a cabin on the side of the mountain.

Brandon Taylor is on a mission for the sheriff in Trace Hollow, checking on the homesteaders around the area. When a sudden storm comes up, he has to take shelter in his family’s hunting cabin, on the side of the mountain. When he finds a beautiful young lady, a stranger to him, in the cabin along with her son, he tells himself repeatedly he can’t marry her. When they reach her aunt’s house, and the other men come sniffing around her, his feelings become more apparent to him. Can he find the courage to marry the beautiful Gabby? Or will he let her be married off to one of the other young men in town?

Get This Book

 

 

 

About C.J. Samuels

CJ Samuels was born and raised in rural Ohio. After more than twenty years working in service at an auto dealership, she picked up the proverbial pen and began writing, thanks to a lot of encouragement from her family and friends.

CJ always has a pot of coffee on, and a welcoming chair, for anyone who needs to talk. CJ was the daughter of the local preacher and had three kids of her own. From attorney, to finished construction builder, to a Marine – CJ’s kids are her pride and joy. CJ has many “adopted” extra family members, including eleven grandchildren that she claims as her own.

CJ is a born and bred Buckeye fan. She has three rescue dogs, an English bulldog named Sammie, a chi-weenie named Lucy, and a beagle mix named Lucky.

In each of her books, you will find stories from her family history. In her eyes, family is most important.

Find CJ at the following link.

Facebook

 

The post Friday First Kiss #103 :: Christmas in Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels (Historical Western Romance) appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Turkey Trot Blog Hop – Nov. 22 – 24, 2016

 

Welcome to the Turkey Trot Blog Hop! This hop is hosted by Parchment & Plume  and will run November 22nd – 24th.

Since Thanksgiving is in a few days I thought I’d share one of my favorite dessert recipes. This isn’t your typical Thanksgiving pie or a complicated cake, it’s a simple Chocolate pudding dessert that I only make on special occasions with lots of people around…..otherwise, I’ll eat the entire thing in one sitting!

This Chocolate Lasagna recipe is a favorite in our house. If you’re looking for something quick and easy, try this. You won’t be sorry!

Just looking at that makes my mouth water!

What you’ll need

1 package regular Oreo cookies – about 36 cookies (Don’t use Double Stuffed, even though its tempting!)

6 Tablespoon of melted butter

8 ounce softened cream cheese

1/4 cup granulated sugar

2 Tablespoons cold milk

12-ounce tub Cool Whip, divided

2 of the 3.9-ounce packages Chocolate Instant Pudding

3 1/4 cups cold milk

1 1/2 cups mini chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS

The Crust

Begin by crushing the Oreo cookies. I used my food processor for this, but you can also place them in a large ziplock bag and crush them. When your Oreos have turned into fine crumbs, transfer the Oreo crumbs to a large bowl. Stir in the 6 tablespoons of melted butter and use a fork to mix. When the butter is distributed, transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Press the crumbs into the bottom of the pan and place the pan in the refrigerator while you work on the other layers.

The Fillings

Filling #1 – Mix the cream cheese with a mixer until light and fluffy. Add 2 Tablespoons of milk and sugar and mix well. Stir in 1 and 1/4 cups Cool Whip.

Filling #2 – In another bowl, combine chocolate instant pudding with 3 and 1/4 cups cold milk. Whisk for several minutes until the pudding starts to thicken.

Now Assemble

Grab your pan with the oreo crust you made and spread all of the cream cheese mixture over the crust. Once you have that layer down, spread the chocolate pudding over the cream cheese layer. Allow the dessert to rest for about 5 minutes so that the pudding can firm up further. (I usually put it in the refrigerator while I start cleaning up my mess)

Garnish

Finish off the dessert by spreading the remaining Cool Whip over the top. Sprinkle mini chocolate chips evenly over the entire thing. Place in the freezer for 1 hour if you’re impatient like me, or the refrigerator for 4 hours before serving.

THEN eat until you’re in a chocolate induced coma.

Okay, that last bit wasn’t in the original recipe but it should be. Just remember, calories don’t count on special occasions and Holidays so enjoy! *cough*

Now for the other goodies in this post…..the giveaways!!

There are two prizes being offered for this hop. Please read the directions carefully to enter each drawing.

The 1st prize for this giveaway is “winner’s choice” of any eBook in my Willow Creek Series.

There will be 2 winner’s selected for this giveaway.

Travel back to the 1800′s and tangle with ornery town marshals, Indians and schoolmarms who are anything but docile. Willow Creek may be a sleepy little frontier town but the characters who live there are as untamed as the land itself!

 

How To Enter This Giveaway

1. Sign up for my Monthly Newsletter using the form below.

2. Mark the Rafflecopter form confirming your newsletter subscription.

3. If you’d like extra chances to win, feel free to do the additional tasks.

Subscribe to Lily’s Monthly Newsletter
* indicates required
Email *




Name *

'+msg+'

';

var input_id = '#mc_embed_signup';
var f = $(input_id);
if (ftypes[index]=='address'){
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]+'-addr1';
f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0);
} else if (ftypes[index]=='date'){
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index]+'-month';
f = $(input_id).parent().parent().get(0);
} else {
input_id = '#mce-'+fnames[index];
f = $().parent(input_id).get(0);
}
if (f){
$(f).append(html);
$(input_id).focus();
} else {
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg);
}
}
} catch(e){
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').show();
$('#mce-'+resp.result+'-response').html(msg);
}
}
}
// ]]>

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The second prize in this giveaway is being sponsored by Parchment & Plum, who is offering a $50.00 Amazon  gift card. To enter this giveaway, you must comment below.

 

Thanks for dropping by and Good Luck!

For more prizes, and more chances to win, click on any of the following blogs.

The post Turkey Trot Blog Hop – Nov. 22 – 24, 2016 appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #102 :: The Wagon by Morgan Dawson (Historical Western Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

The Wagon by Morgan Dawson

“Thank you. Thank you for helping me during the storm, for buying me the fabric even though you didn’t need to, and thank you for letting me pour my heart out to you about everything I’ve been holding in.”

Robert has a sly grin on his face. “I am pretty great.” He raises an eyebrow.

I reply with a scowl, and my own lifted eyebrow.

He laughs. “But I suppose we can both be great.” Robert leans in and places a short kiss on my lips, then pulls back with a smile. My eyes are wide in shock, and my lips are left tingling.

“Well, we better be getting you home to your sisters then.” Robert clears his throat as he takes my hand to help me up onto my seat.

“Um… yes, let’s do that.” I nervously laugh as he hops up to the seat next to me, taking the horses reins in his hands.

 

 

 

The Wagon by Morgan Dawson

After tragedy strikes her family, 18-year old Darlene is left caring for her four younger sisters, facing hardships and struggles that threaten to take everything away from her. After discovering that she has only a few weeks to get the crop off the field to save the family farm, she has to make decisions that will affect them all.



With help from a man she meets along the way, she works to do whatever she can to save her family. She learns to trust, and she finds a strength she never knew she had.



Could she possibly find love during the most difficult time of her life? And, can she save her family from losing everything they have fought so hard to get?

 

 

Get This Book

 

 

 

 

About Morgan Dawson

Morgan Dawson is the 13-year-old daughter of author Kay P. Dawson.  Morgan has always been an avid reader, and has a passion for writing.  She decided she wanted to write in the same era as her mom, historical western, and decided to try writing a series based on a family of 5 young girls.

You can find Morgan online at the following links.

Webpage | Facebook 

 

 

The post Friday First Kiss #102 :: The Wagon by Morgan Dawson (Historical Western Romance) appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #101 :: Christmas Kiss from the Sheriff by Kathryn Albright (Sweet Western Historical Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

Christmas Kiss from the Sheriff by Kathryn Albright

Craig’s gaze narrowed. “That’s not what I mean. What happened that you traveled all the way from Boston to California…and I suspect…alone? That’s unusual for a woman. Even more so for a woman who obviously had money. What did your family have to say about it?”

He was figuring out too much. If she wasn’t careful he would eventually add things up and realize she wasn’t who she said she was, but she should tell him something to appease his curiosity. Perhaps then he would leave her past alone.

“Mother died when I was very young. A carriage accident. I don’t remember her. My father raised me on his own…with a few servants.”

“And tutors.”

“He died recently. It was his heart,” she answered the question that appeared immediately on his handsome face.

Craig frowned. “How long after his death did you leave?”

“A month later.”

“Didn’t give you much time to put his things in order.”

She could hear the question in his voice. “I couldn’t bear the quiet. I was so close to Father. He supported me in everything I wanted to do.”

Craig’s brow raised.

It didn’t take a scholar to recognize the look he gave her. “I was, perhaps, a bit spoiled. We discussed his law cases. He challenged me to think for myself and thought I’d make a good lawyer. I was in my second year of law school at the university when he died.”

They turned from the main road of town and headed down the lane to the boardinghouse.

“They let women in?”

“There were two other women in my class.”

“Why didn’t you stay and finish?”

“When my father died, I had to start afresh—somewhere totally different. I’d been writing for years to Elizabeth. She wrote to me and poured her heart out in her letters as her world was falling apart. She is the sister I always wanted. When my father died, all I could think of was seeing her.” She looked down at the ground. “That’s when I packed a bag, closed up the house and left Boston.”

“No relatives? No one tried to stop you?”

“No.” Thank goodness they were nearing the boardinghouse and the twilight shadows hid her face from his scrutiny. She’d told him the truth…just not all of it.

He stopped before Molly’s fence and whipped the lead strap around the top railing. Then he walked her up to the door. Molly’s parlor lantern spilled light outside and onto the small porch.

“Do you ever think about going back?”

“And leave Clear Springs?” she teased at first, and then grew serious. “I may move somewhere new. But no, I won’t ever go back.” She knew full well what waited for her in Boston—a jail cell.

“Maybe someday you will finish law school.”

That would make her too easy to track down. Women lawyers were few and far between. No…that dream had ended abruptly and was best left in the past. “Someday never comes.” She pasted on a smile to take the sting out of her own words. “Good evening, Craig. Thank you for…everything.”

When she turned to go inside, Craig stepped forward. “Wait.”

“What?”

“You answered a few questions I had.” He searched her face as though still trying to figure out more. His face was inches from her own. She breathed in the scent of leather and horse that always hovered around him. The brown stubble on his jaw caught her attention. So rough…and yet the ends gleamed gold.

“It’s getting late. Molly will have supper waiting.” She didn’t want him to know more…see more…because if he did, he might see that she was coming to care for him even though she oughtn’t. He was too smart.

With his hand to her waist, he pulled her close.

She stiffened. “Craig? What are you doing?”

He gazed at her, his blue eyes intense. “Be still.”

She knew that look. It thrilled her…and yet she couldn’t let him kiss her. “Craig… No. Remember,” she said desperately fighting the tug inside her that drew her closer to him. “I promised Mr. Tanner? You…should…unhand me.” Her words were a bare whisper and she couldn’t help but stare at his lips. They looked soft…and inviting.

“I plan to.” He lowered his mouth to hers, touching her lips lightly, tentatively with his. His warm breath tickled her face.

Just the lightest butterfly touch and she calmed, suspended somewhere between Boston and Clear Springs, wrong and right, despair and hope.

Inch by inch his fingers walked around to encircle her waist and then, holding her gently secure, he slanted his mouth over hers and deepened the kiss.

She melted.

Her lips tingled under his, the sensation spreading and rippling through her entire body and into her toes. Her heartbeat quickened. This shouldn’t be happening. She knew this shouldn’t be happening. She even clenched her hands into fists on his chest to push him away, but then found herself stopping just short of doing that and instead, grasping his leather vest, unwilling to let go. Oh, my…

He took his time ending the kiss.

His gaze pinned her in place even though she knew she should take her leave. For an earth-shattering moment as they looked at each other, time seemed to stop.

Then he released her. “Good night, Gemma.”

He strode down Molly’s path, mounted his horse and rode away.

It was then she remembered to breathe.

 

 

 

Christmas Kiss from the Sheriff by Kathryn Albright

A Christmas to remember! 

Clear Springs’ new schoolteacher, Gemma Starling, feels as if she’s been given a fresh start. So long as no one discovers her dark secret—she once shot a man in self-defense!

Sheriff Craig Parker has forsworn love, but delightful Miss Starling intrigues him. And when events at the school turn dangerous, Craig won’t let her face it alone. Gemma might just be the one woman he could ever love, but will the secret she’s hiding tear them apart or bring them together by Christmas?

 

 

Get This Book

AMAZON   

HARLEQUIN

BARNES & NOBLE

 

 

About Kathryn Albright

 

Kathryn Albright grew up in San Diego where she sets many of her sweet western historical romances. As a finalist in the distinguished RWA Golden Heart® and a recipient of the HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, her stories celebrate courage and hope with a dash of adventure. She lives with her family in the rural Midwest now where she practices the elusive skill of gardening. So far zucchinis and tomatoes are her only claim to horticultural fame.

You can find Kathryn online at the following links.

Kathryn’s Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Amazon Author Page |  Goodreads

 

 

The post Friday First Kiss #101 :: Christmas Kiss from the Sheriff by Kathryn Albright (Sweet Western Historical Romance) appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #100 :: The Bluebird by Kristy McCaffrey (Historical Western Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

The Bluebird by Kristy McCaffrey

Jake closed the trapdoor above him and descended the ladder. In the pitch black, he felt his way along the wooden slats until his feet hit the dirt. Pedro remained in the cabin—the crazy coot insisted he had important items to gather, and he didn’t want Jake present when he did it.

Where’s Molly?

And where was the light? Pedro had said there were candles and lucifers in the tunnel. Jake hesitated, the air in the tunnel thick.

A whimper came from his right.

“Molly?”

He barely heard her response. In the dark, he held a hand out for the tunnel wall, his fingers meeting moist earth. His feet bumped into something soft. He leaned down and pulled her to stand. Beneath his hands, she shook like a frightened animal.

“What’s wrong?”

All he heard was gasping.

Jake had seen this before—an uncontrollable panic in men when faced with life or death situations. There was no reasoning when the brain crumbled from the terror. The shoot-out had knocked the balance out of her.

He tried to calm her, rubbing his hands up and down her arms then cupping the side of her face while he leaned his forehead to hers. “It’ll be fine. I won’t let anything happen to you.”

But his words had little effect on her.

Guided by instinct, he sought to calm her with touch since they could see nothing in the complete darkness of the tunnel.

He leaned forward and kissed her.

She went still. He held his lips to hers, letting the contact slowly ease her fear, but when she stiffened, his misgivings began to rise. He’d been certain she’d felt the same spark between them that he had.

He’d been wrong.

He began to pull away.

She shifted toward him and joined her mouth to his, her lips hungry and searching and desperate. Jake didn’t hold back, drinking her in, and the world fell away as he deepened the contact, aware only of the softness of her lips.

Desire flared, fierce and intense, and he held her closer. With the force of a sandstorm, longing swept through him and nearly knocked him to his knees.

My God. He’d had no idea that behind his fascination with her lay this.

He had the oddest feeling that it had always been her.

Light poured over them and Molly jumped, her eyes wide as she stared at him.

“Run, you idiotas!” Pedro yelled.

Copyright © 2016 K. McCaffrey LLC

 

 

 

The Bluebird by Kristy McCaffrey

Book Five in the Wings Of The West Series – Can Be Read As A Stan Alone

Molly Rose Simms departs the Arizona Territory, eager for adventure, and travels to Colorado to visit her brother. Robert left two years ago to make his fortune in the booming silver town of Creede, and now Molly Rose hopes to convince him to accompany her to San Francisco, New York City, or even Europe. But Robert is nowhere to be found. All Molly Rose finds is his partner, a mysterious man known as The Jackal.

Jake McKenna has traveled the bustling streets of Istanbul, exotic ports in China, and the deserts of Morocco. His restless desire to explore has been the only constant in his life. When his search for the elusive and mythical Bluebird mining claim lands him a new partner, he must decide how far he’ll go to protect the stunning young woman who’s clearly in over her head. A home and hearth has never been on The Jackal’s agenda, but Molly Rose Simms is about to change his world in every conceivable way.

Please note: Contains mild violence and a sensuous love scene.

Now Available

Read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited or .99¢ for a limited time.

Get This Book

 

 

About Kristy McCaffrey

 

Kristy McCaffrey has been writing since she was very young, but it wasn’t until she was a stay-at-home mom that she considered becoming published. She’s the author of several historical western romances, all set in the American southwest. She lives in the Arizona desert with her husband, two chocolate labs, and whichever of their four teenaged children happen to be in residence. She loves to travel and frequently blogs about her adventures.

You can find Kristy online at the following links.

 Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter | Amazon Author Page

 

 

The post Friday First Kiss #100 :: The Bluebird by Kristy McCaffrey (Historical Western Romance) appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Who wants a werewolf book-boyfriend?

 

GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED – CONGRATULATIONS SANDY HORNER!

I can’t believe this year is nearly over. It always seems to sneak up on me for some reason. As I do every year, I’ve been going through my prize closet and trying to organize and get ride of older things and I have an over abundance of certain books so, I’m giving a couple away!

Once upon a time I wrote about things other than cowboys. A few of those things were werewolves, vampires and demons. The books I’m giving away today have it all. A yummy shape-shifting alpha hero, a vampire more tempting for the heroine than he should be and a whole lot of scary!

One winner will receive signed copies of both books, The Calling and The Gathering in paperback.

In a world where the supernatural isn’t supposed to exist, the creatures of myth are slowly brought into the light. As the preternatural Breeds make their presence known, will humans now become an endangered species?

How To Enter This Giveaway

This giveaway is for my newsletter subscribers. If you’re already signed up, fill in the required info on the rafflecopter form below and click enter. If not, enter your information in the subscribe box, check your email to confirm, then come back and hit enter on the rafflecopter form.

#mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; }
/* Add your own MailChimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block.
We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */



Subscribe to our mailing list

RULES

You MUST use a valid email address when signing up as this is the only contact information I’ll use to inform you if you win. Bad email addresses will be discarded and another winner will be selected in your place.
Winners will be announced on Tuesday, November 2nd here on the blog.
Giveaway is open to everyone where giveaways are permitted.
If you’d like extra chances to win, feel free to do any of the additional tasks.

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Who wants a werewolf book-boyfriend? appeared first on USA Today Bestselling Author Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #94 :: Elli – Mail Order Brides of Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels (Western Historical Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

Elli – Mail Order Brides of Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels

Logan was sweating and Elli felt her face blush from nerves. She hadn’t kissed a man before. She looked up at Logan.

“You may now kiss the bride.”

Logan only hesitated for a second. Then he decided to listen to every bit of advice he’d previously collected from the married men. He grabbed his new wife in his arms and dipped her into the biggest kiss the church had ever seen.

The men started laughing. Emma looked pleased. The teenage boys, who had been bored up to this point, were elbowing each other and leaning forward to get a better look. The Trace sisters, Bobbie and Jan, were trying to look distraught but it wasn’t working. They looked like they were enjoying the show.

Pastor Don cleared his throat. Twice. Uncle George finally tapped Logan’s shoulder and it was over. Elli stood up straight, but was more than a little flushed.

The church family clapped again. It seemed the whole town was happy for them, and they would be talking for weeks about that kiss.

Elli looked around the church one last time at her new group of family and friends. She looked out the windows at her new home. She thought she saw a bedraggled man outside. And, she was positive she had just seen a large, white goose.

 

 

 

Elli – Mail Order Brides of Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels

Winchester, Ohio — Elli Gray wants a family to call her own. Her life at the orphanage is coming to an end. The pastor and his wife have a solution. Elli agrees to travel to Trace Hollow as a mail-order bride to a man they have picked. Elli dreams of being a good wife but will her temper get in the way of that?

Trace Hollow, Montana – Sheriff Logan James wants a wife but he’s too busy to find one. His pastor’s wife has connections in Ohio and chooses a bride for him. Logan is looking for an agreeable woman who can bring order into his chaotic life.

Throw in a few bank robbers, an election for mayor, and a sheriff-stalking goose named Herbie and Trace Hollow will never be the same.

Elli will release Friday, September 16, 2016

 

About CJ Samuels

CJ Samuels was born and raised in rural Ohio. After more than twenty years working in service at an auto dealership, she picked up the proverbial pen and began writing, thanks to a lot of encouragement from her family and friends.

CJ always has a pot of coffee on, and a welcoming chair, for anyone who needs to talk. CJ was the daughter of the local preacher and had three kids of her own. From attorney, to finished construction builder, to a Marine – CJ’s kids are her pride and joy. CJ has many “adopted” extra family members, including eleven grandchildren that she claims as her own.

CJ is a born and bred Buckeye fan. She has three rescue dogs, an English bulldog named Sammie, a chi-weenie named Lucy, and a beagle mix named Lucky.

In each of her books, you will find stories from her family history. In her eyes, family is most important.

Find CJ at the following link.

Facebook

The post Friday First Kiss #94 :: Elli – Mail Order Brides of Trace Hollow by CJ Samuels (Western Historical Romance) appeared first on USA TODAY Best Selling Romance Author, Lily Graison.

Angels & Outlaws Reader Group

Did you know I have a special reader group over on facebook? It’s a place for fans to hang out, get exclusive sneak peeks at upcoming books and participate in group only giveaways. This is also where you can ask me questions about  books, give input when I need a bit of help and be the first in line for ARC copies of new releases.

Want to come hang out with me? Then head over to LILY’S ANGELS & OUTLAWS READER GROUP and join!

I hope to see you there,

Lily

The post Angels & Outlaws Reader Group appeared first on USA TODAY Best Selling Romance Author, Lily Graison.

Friday First Kiss #93 :: Wicked: Jade Butterfly by Lily Graison (Contemporary “Rock Star” Romance)

The moment I crack open a new book, I always rush through the beginning, the budding relationship between the hero and heroine, and anticipate that spontaneous moment when one of them makes their move. The First Kiss. The first turning point in every story.

Every week here on the blog, I’ll be sharing First Kisses from my books and those of other authors.

 

This week’s Friday First Kiss comes from,

 Wicked: Jade Butterfly by Lily Graison

(This book is rated Spicy Hot and contains very strong language and explicit sexual situations)

The guys were still watching and he wanted to kick their asses. By the look on their faces, they loved this. His humiliation was the price of their glee.

Looking back over at Jessi, he ran a hand through his hair, wondering what to do now. The card was burning a hole in his pocket and he knew he couldn’t actually read that damn thing to her and not die of embarrassment.

But did he really have a choice? It was either her or someone else and a complete stranger would be worse. He knew that from experience. Maybe he didn’t need to read it. He smiled as an idea came to him.

“I’m in need of a favor,” Christian said. “Care to help me out?”

“If I can.”

Jessi smiled at him again and he forgot to breathe. How could any man look at this woman and not want her? She probably has a boyfriend, he told himself, taking in her features. The plump fullness of her lips, the small uplifted nose, and her soft tawny brown eyes reminded him of a Hollywood starlet. She definitely has a boyfriend. No one that gorgeous is single.

She shifted on her feet again and he knew she was getting ready to leave. The small hint of fear some girls got when he was speaking to them was shining brightly in her eyes. He wasn’t sure if it was him or something else causing it but if he was going to do this, it had to be quick.

He swallowed the humiliation his friends had thrown at him and cleared his throat again. “The guys have this game they like to play and I’m the unlucky participant of their fun tonight. I’ll spare you the horrible details so if you have a few minutes, just pretend I said the most outrageous thing you’ve ever heard.”

She raised an eyebrow at him and glanced across the club. He followed her gaze and groaned when the guys waved back at them.

“So, what’s the game?” she asked.

“It’s a pick-up game.”

“A pick-up game?”

“Yes,” he said. “They have a deck of cards with the most humiliating pick-up lines known to man. They get to pick the card and I have to find someone to say it to.”

“And you picked me to hit on?”

He grinned when she flashed him a devastating smile. It lit her entire face and made her eyes sparkle. It also made his already racing pulse nearly choke him as his blood pounded through his veins.

He pulled the card from his pocket and discreetly handed it to her so the guys wouldn’t see. When she looked down at it, reading the line, her soft, feminine giggle nearly brought him to his knees. It danced along his spine and caused visions of her wrapped in silk to caress his thoughts. For the first time ever, he wanted that damn card to actually do what it was supposed to. Entice someone to follow him back to his room.

When she glanced up at him, he sucked in a quiet breath. The clubs colored lights reflected off her hair and cast a halo of blues and greens around her. Her eyes sparkled in the light and a rosy hue tinted her cheeks. Beautiful didn’t even begin to describe her. She was the most glorious thing he’d ever seen.

“So, you’re supposed to read me the card and. what, exactly?”

He blushed. He felt it like a living thing crawl over his features and steal what little air he had in his lungs.

“Well,” he said. He swallowed the sudden lump in his throat and glanced over his shoulder. The guys were still watching him. When he faced Jessi, he noticed her staring at the guys as well. “Um, normally. I mean, when I read the card, whoever I’ve read it to, usually laughs. and then invites herself back to my hotel.”

“Really?” Jessi said. She smiled and leaned her hip on the bar. “And how many girls have you seduced with one of these lame cards?”

“Me personally?” He grinned and felt his face burn hotter. “None. I don’t play this game unless I’m forced.”

“And why don’t I believe you?”

“Because Luke’s reputation rubs off on the rest of us?”

She laughed. “You’re probably right.” Glancing back down at the card, she read it again, smiling before handing it back to him. “Well, your still being watched,” she said, glancing over his shoulder to where the guys sat. “I guess you better do your duty and read this to me.”

He stared at her in shock, watching an amused twinkle shine brightly in her eyes before taking the card and reading it again himself. He cringed. She wanted him to read this to her? Out loud? He’d rather be tied to an anthill butt ass naked and covered in honey than read this card to her.

When she took a step closer to him and the scent of wild orchids filled the air, he suppressed a moan and licked his lips.

She smiled up at him, silently encouraging him. “They’re just words, Christian,” she said. “Read me the card. I promise not to bite.”

Something in her eyes told him she wanted him to read the card. She was watching him too intently. Eager anticipation shined in her eyes and he knew in that moment, he’d do anything the girl wanted no matter what the outcome.

Swallowing the nerves choking him, he glanced at the card and lifted his gaze to her face. “Fuck me if I’m wrong, but don’t you want to kiss me?”

The tinkling laughter he’d heard earlier enveloped him in a blanket of warmth as he stared at her. The heat traveling his limbs intensified the moment she closed the distance between them and raised one arm, wrapping it around his neck.

She molded her body against his, her soft curves fitting against him like plush velvet. Her fingers caught in his hair, forcing his head down. When she took his mouth against her own, he stopped breathing.

At the first taste of her, his senses exploded. The warmth of her mouth, the gentle slide of her lips against his own and he was undone. Fire licked through his veins, stole every thought other than the way she felt against him and his entire body hardened in seconds.

He reached for her, pulling her to him as her tongue probed his lips. He tilted his head and opened for her with a moan of pleasure. At first contact with the heat of her mouth, his hold on her tightened, his arms wrapping around the soft curve of her waist. His hands flattened on her bare back and the heat scorched his palms.

The thrust and parry of open-mouthed kisses dulled everything around him but her. The music in the club was over run with the sound of his blood rushing through his veins. The scent of sweating bodies washed away as wild orchids overpowered his senses. The sweet taste of the fruity drink she’d had earlier filled his mouth and he couldn’t get enough. He drank in her kiss, pulling her to him until nothing remained but her.

 

 

 

Wicked: Jade Butterfly by Lily Graison

Christian Palmer, bass player for the band Wicked, isn’t your typical rocker. Much to his band mate’s amusement, he’s quiet, shy and looks like your average boy next door–but that’s all about to change. An encounter with a girl he can’t seem to forget calls for drastic measures and with the help of his friends, Christian goes from dud to stud in hopes to wow the girl of his dreams.

Jessi McClure has led a fairytale life. She has a job she loves, friends she can count on and couldn’t want for anything else. Until she meets, and photographs, an unlikely rock star. Running into him again was just dumb luck, but when their paths keep crossing, she can’t help but notice the change this shy, gorgeous guy has taken on and is drawn to him even more.

When fate keeps stepping in and hands you something you didn’t realize you wanted, do you throw the chance away or hold on with both hands? Will Jessi get more than she bargained for when the man she thought she knew turns out to be so much more? And can Christian hold on to the girl of his dreams when a misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart?

(Wicked: Jade Butterfly is book 3 in the Wicked Series but can be read as a stand alone story)

BUY THE EBOOK:

 

About Lily Graison

USA TODAY  bestselling author Lily Graison writes historical western romances and dabbles in contemporary and paranormal romance. First published in 2005, Lily has written over a dozen romance novels that range from sweet to spicy.

She lives in Hickory, North Carolina with her husband, a gaggle of high-strung Yorkies and more cats than she can count. On occasion, she can be found at her sewing machine creating 1800’s period clothing or participating in area living history events.

When not portraying a southern belle, you can find her at a nearby store feeding her obsession for all things resembling office supplies.

To see the dresses Lily has created, visit her Pinterest page.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | Google+  | Instagram

The post Friday First Kiss #93 :: Wicked: Jade Butterfly by Lily Graison (Contemporary “Rock Star” Romance) appeared first on USA TODAY Best Selling Romance Author, Lily Graison.