Laura Roberts's Blog, page 8

Sacramento Love is live: Enter to win a Sacramento Prize Pack!

Today is launch day for Sacramento Love, which means that I’m giving away a super cool Sacramento Prize Pack to celebrate!

What’s in the prize pack?



A paperback copy of Sacramento Love ;A handmade beehive candle by Sacramento candle-maker Zamera Textiles -OR- handmade Fool’s Gold soap by Sacramento soap-maker Kitchen Witch (winner’s choice!);An 8-pack of Kruffles from local favorite Kobasic’s Candies;A mermaid pen and notebook; andA custom map of Sacramento, with of the locations of all of the book’s meet-cutes highlighted in gold!

Some visuals, to feast your eyes…

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Ready to win?

Click here to enter, or use the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This contest is open to anyone with a U.S. address. No purchase is necessary to enter the contest, although those who purchase a copy of the book (just 99¢ at Amazon and Smashwords) will receive one additional entry per purchase. Please be sure to follow the instructions on the Rafflecopter page to verify your bonus entries!

Thanks for entering, and good luck!

5 Things I Love About Sacramento

In anticipation of my new release, Sacramento Love, today I’m bringing you five of the things I love most about Sacramento. Are you ready? Then let’s dive in!

#5: The American River Parkway



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With 32 miles of paved pathway that runs along the American River, the Parkway is designed to host walkers and joggers, bicyclists and even horseback riders in harmony. You can also access many of Sacramento’s public parks from the parkway, making it an ideal way to see the city when you want to break free from your car.

#4: Rick’s Dessert Diner



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If you love dessert (and who doesn’t?) then you’ve got to try Rick’s Dessert Diner. Pies, cakes, ice cream sundaes, milkshakes and more, all in a fab pink and red retro diner! Come for the dessert, stay for the nostalgia. Find Rick’s at 2401 J Street in downtown Sacramento or @ricksdessertdiner on Instagram!

#3: Tower Bridge



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Some cities have recognizable skylines full of famous buildings. Sacramento has the unmistakable golden-hued Tower Bridge. It may not be the world’s biggest, but it’s colorful and unique, and it connects downtown Sacramento with West Sacramento.

BONUS: You can also spot the Ziggurat (that pyramid-shaped building, lit up in orange) behind the bridge in this photo.

#2: Evangeline’s Costume Mansion



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Definitely the best shop in Old Town, Evangeline’s is a year-round costume depot for all of your dress-up needs. The first floor of the mansion features a novelty shop full of gag gifts and jokester fun, while the second and third floors are complete costume wonderland. Whether you’re looking for Halloween items before they hit the “normie” stores, or just love to embrace your imagination, you’ve got to check out Evangeline’s funhouse. You can find them at 113 K Street in Old Sacramento or @evangelinescostumemansion on Instagram!

#1: State Capitol Building & Museum



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Like most state capitals, Sacramento features a legislative Capitol Building where state governmental activities are conducted – and many protests either kick off or end up. Whether you love or hate politics, it’s all kind of unavoidable here, so be sure to visit the Capitol and its museum to learn more about our state’s history, where all our representatives work, and how you can get involved.

BONUS: The Capitol grounds are also well worth a visit, with various gardens including the World Peace Rose Garden.

The Capitol is located at 1315 10th Street in downtown Sacramento. You can’t miss it!

Want more Sacramento Love?

A short series of love notes to the city of Sacramento, Sacramento Love features 26 fictional meet-cute romances—each sparked somewhere within California’s state capital. Follow along as our cast of local characters meet one another in diners, dive bars, coffee shops, restaurants, parks, and at some of Sacramento’s most beloved landmarks from the American River Parkway to the mysterious Ziggurat. Lift your spirits with the joy of meeting someone new, a little romance, and a lot of Sacramento Love!

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Buy @ Amazon



Buy @ Smashwords

Sacramento Love is almost here!

I’ve got two important announcements, so let me cut right to the chase:

FIRST: The Buttontapper mailing list on Substack has been retired, and I’ve started a new MailChimp mailing list—which you should sign up for now, even if you think you’re already on it.

To make a long and boring story short: Substack developed an incredible spam problem, and they deleted my entire list, so I’m starting over from scratch. (Yes, I hate them. No, please don’t bother yelling at them; they aren’t worth the energy.)

SECOND, AND MUCH MORE IMPORTANTLY: My new book, Sacramento Love, is launching soon! September 14th is the big day, so mark your calendars—or better yet, preorder your copy today from Amazon or Smashwords. It’s available for just 99¢ for a limited time, so get it while it’s hot!

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Preorder @ Amazon



Preorder @ Smashwords

I’m counting down to launch day on Instagram with 10 Things I Love About Sacramento, to help you get to know more about the city I currently call home. Join me @LauraRobertsRomance every day from September 2 to September 13 to learn about some of the landmarks, hot spots, and hidden treasures that make Sacramento the perfect place to fall in love!

Thanks for reading, and I look forward to sharing more Sacramento Love with you soon.

Scandalous Secrets: Love, lies, and politics from Synithia Williams

Can they do what’s right… without betraying their hearts?

Senatorial candidate Byron Robidoux always does the right thing. And, after years of focus and dedication, his life and campaign are going exactly to plan—until a blackmailer jeopardizes everything. No one is supposed to know that thirteen years ago, Byron told a lie to protect a college friend. And now that lie could destroy his career… and threaten the woman he never stopped loving.

Zoe Hammond hardly recognizes the refined and handsome politician Byron has become. The last time she saw him, he was the friend who saved her life by claiming to be the father of her unborn baby. For that, she’d do anything for him. Except Byron’s world of wealth, reputation and deceit isn’t a place where Zoe or her daughter belong. But when a menace from the past comes calling again, staying with Byron is best for them all. And, as the searing attraction between them builds, they soon realize some things are worth fighting for… especially love.

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Buy on Amazon



Add to Goodreads



Enter to WIN!




About Synithia Williams



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Synithia Williams has loved romance novels since reading her first one at the age of 13. It was only natural that she would one day write her own romance. When she isn’t writing, Synithia works on water quality issues in the Midlands of South Carolina while taking care of her supportive husband and two sons. You can learn more about Synithia by visiting her website, www.synithiawilliams.com.

Connect with Synithia

WEBSITE: https://www.synithiawilliams.com
FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/synithiarwilliams
TWITTER: https://www.twitter.com/synithiaw
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/SynithiaW

Hello Fall! Final 12 Weeks of Summer Romance #giveaway

Hello, and welcome to the FINAL week of my 12 Weeks of Summer Romance Giveaway series! This is the last giveaway of the summer, so let’s get right into it.

This week I’m giving away a romantic suspense book that’s sure to get your blood pumping: Entangled Pursuits by Brenda Jackson.

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About the Book

When danger arrives, real men take action.

Detective Andrew Logan hears that Detective Antonia Oliver is back in town. It’s been four years since they were involved in a hot, heavy, and steamy affair. Andrew’s life gets complicated when Toni is assigned as his new partner. Paired together, they try hard to ignore the sexual chemistry that’s stronger than ever between them.

One homicide investigation turns deadly and Toni’s life is in danger. Andrew goes into action, determined to protect the woman he’s trying his damnedest not to fall in love with.

Can’t wait? Buy now!




The Giveaway

TO ENTER:

Click here or follow the Rafflecopter instructions below!

Happy Hump Day: The penultimate summer romance #giveaway!

Hello, and welcome to Week 11 of my 12 Weeks of Summer Romance Giveaway series! This is the penultimate giveaway, so it’s time to get sexy.

This week I’m giving away an erotic romance that’s full of Black love: Fans Only by B. Love.

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About the Book

Merrick and Aries are longtime friends, however, they don’t always see eye to eye. During a heated group discussion, the opposite sex pairs debate if people can maintain healthy relationships in the sex worker industry, because of the popularity of Only Fans. To settle their opposing views, they agree to create an account together and make some easy, quick money along the way.

With dreams neither Merrick nor Aries can afford to loom, they outline the deal — engage in a public, sexual relationship until they’ve both met their financial goals. The proposal seems full of gain and worthy of the exposure… as if anything is ever that easy.

Great sex and big checks become twisted feelings, and time only further betrays the performing lovers. When one of them has the chance to be with the person they’ve lusted after for years, the plan and their friendship is put to the test.

The Giveaway

TO ENTER:

Click here or follow the Rafflecopter instructions below!

Happy Bookstore Romance Day!

Happy Bookstore Romance Day! If you haven’t heard, today’s the day to celebrate romance-supporting indie bookstores, and lots of events are happening online throughout the day.

As a small indie press, Buttontapper Press are celebrating as well! Here are three ways you can join us:

We’ve got a new mailing list ! Join it so you’ll get all our latest and greatest news, book deals, and special sales for subscribers only.Our next title, Sacramento Love , is coming soon. September 14th, to be exact! It’s currently available for pre-order at Smashwords for just 99¢, so be sure to grab your copy to lock in that early-bird pricing.In addition to our regularly scheduled 12 Weeks of Summer Romance giveaways, today we’re giving away a Contemporary Romance Prize Pack featuring my three favorite romance novels of 2020 (so far)!



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What’s in the prize pack?

Great question!

I’m including:

Girl Gone Viral by Alisha RaiReal Men Knit by Kwana Jackson, andTake A Hint, Dani Brown by Talia Hibbert

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If you like what you see, you can enter our Rafflecopter giveaway using this link!

As always, thank you so much for reading, good luck, and Happy Bookstore Romance Day!

Ready for a ROYAL giveaway?

Hello, and welcome to Week 10 of my ongoing 12 Weeks of Summer Romance Giveaway series!

This week I’m giving away a super-sized bundle of Black romance novels PLUS two novellas: the full Reluctant Royals series by Alyssa Cole.

About the Books



A PRINCESS IN THEORY



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Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales… or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.

Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.

The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?

A DUKE BY DEFAULT



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New York City socialite and perpetual hot mess Portia Hobbs is tired of disappointing her family, friends, and—most importantly—herself. An apprenticeship with a struggling swordmaker in Scotland is a chance to use her expertise and discover what she’s capable of. Turns out she excels at aggravating her gruff silver fox boss… when she’s not having inappropriate fantasies about his sexy Scottish burr.

Tavish McKenzie doesn’t need a rich, spoiled American telling him how to run his armory… even if she is infuriatingly good at it. Tav tries to rebuff his apprentice—and his attraction to her—but when Portia accidentally discovers that he’s the secret son of a duke, rough-around-the-edges Tav becomes her newest makeover project.

Forging metal into weapons and armor is one thing, but when desire burns out of control and the media spotlight gets too hot to bear, can a commoner turned duke and his posh apprentice find lasting love?

ONCE GHOSTED, TWICE SHY (novella)



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While her boss the prince was busy wooing his betrothed, Likotsi had her own love affair after swiping right on a dating app. But her romance had ended in heartbreak, and now, back in NYC again, she’s determined to rediscover her joy—so of course she runs into the woman who broke her heart.

When Likotsi and Fabiola meet again on a stalled subway train months later, Fab asks for just one cup of tea. Likotsi, hoping to know why she was unceremoniously dumped, agrees. Tea and food soon leads to them exploring the city together, and their past, with Fab slowly revealing why she let Likotsi go, and both of them wondering if they can turn this second chance into a happily ever after.

CAN’T ESCAPE LOVE (novella)



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Regina Hobbs is nerdy by nature, businesswoman by nurture. She’s finally taking her pop culture-centered media enterprise, Girls with Glasses, to the next level, but the stress is forcing her to face a familiar supervillain: insomnia. The only thing that helps her sleep when things get this bad is the deep, soothing voice of puzzle-obsessed live streamer Gustave Nguyen. The problem? His archive has been deleted.

Gus has been tasked with creating an escape room themed around a romance anime… except he knows nothing about romance or anime. Then mega-nerd and anime expert Reggie comes calling, and they make a trade: his voice for her knowledge. But when their online friendship has IRL chemistry, will they be able to escape love?

A PRINCE ON PAPER



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Nya Jerami fled Thesolo for the glitz and glamour of NYC but discovered that her Prince Charming only exists in her virtual dating games. When Nya returns home for a royal wedding, she accidentally finds herself up close and personal—in bed—with the real-life celebrity prince who she loves to hate.

For Johan von Braustein, the red-headed step-prince of Liechtienbourg, acting as paparazzi bait is a ruse that protects his brother—the heir to the throne—and his own heart. When a royal referendum threatens his brother’s future, a fake engagement is the perfect way to keep the cameras on him.

Nya and Johan both have good reasons to avoid love, but as desires are laid bare behind palace doors, they must decide if their fake romance will lead to a happily-ever-after.

The Giveaway

TO ENTER:

Click here or follow the Rafflecopter instructions below!

Happy Romance Awareness Month!

Hello, and welcome to Week 9 of my ongoing 12 Weeks of Summer Romance Giveaway series!

This week I’m giving away a Black romance that focuses on a family full of fine Black men: Impromptu Seduction (In the Heart of a Valentine, Book 8) by Stephanie Nicole Norris.

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About the Book

Raised as a debutante, ladylike, and reserved, London Jones has stepped into unknown territory. From the moment her life collided with a man who should’ve been off-limits, a bachelor with a hot reputation—staying out of his way was the sensible thing to do. However, she finds herself caught in a tangled web of passionate fervor whenever he comes near. So much so that her ability to place a barrier between them becomes a futile battle. The heart wants what it wants, and London’s heart yearns for him.

Borboleta…

She was the impetus of his desire. The only one who captured his eye for more than a moment and beckoned his soul to blend in beautiful bliss with hers. For software engineer Kyle Valentine, his attempt to hold back the hedonism that struck whenever they were together threatened to be his undoing. His heart yearned to connect with London’s soul, and soon he finds himself questioning if he’s worthy of her love. But now that he’s gotten next to London, determination becomes the motto for his pursuit and his ultimate will to hold on to her, forever.

The Giveaway

TO ENTER:

Click here or follow the Rafflecopter instructions below.

Ready for another giveaway?

Hello, and welcome to Week 8 of my ongoing 12 Weeks of Summer Romance Giveaway series!

This week I’m giving away a Black romance that debuted in May and which I’ve *finally* been able to sit down and read: REAL MEN KNIT by Kwana Jackson.

About the Book

When their foster-turned-adoptive mother suddenly dies, four brothers struggle to keep open the doors of her beloved Harlem knitting shop.

Jesse Strong is known for two things: his devotion to his adoptive mom, Mama Joy, and his reputation for breaking hearts. When Mama Joy unexpectedly passes away, he and his brothers have different plans for what to do with Strong Knits, their neighborhood knitting store. Jesse wants to keep the store open. His brothers want to tie off loose ends and close shop…

Part-time shop employee Kerry Fuller has kept her crush on Jesse a secret. When she overhears his impassioned plea to his brothers to keep the knitting shop open, she volunteers to help. Unlike Jesse, Kerry knows the “knitty-gritty” of the business, and together they make plans to reinvent Strong Knits for a new generation.

But the more time they spend together, the stronger the chemistry builds between them. Kerry, knowing Jesse’s history, doesn’t believe their relationship can last longer than she can knit one, purl two. But Jesse is determined to prove to her that he can be the man for her forever and always. After all, real men knit.

The Giveaway

TO ENTER:

Click here or follow the Rafflecopter instructions below.