Delaney Diamond's Blog, page 11

Listening party for Princess of Estoria

In anticipation of the audiobook release of Princess of Estoria in the Royal Brides series, I’m having a listening party! This romance novel was inspired by the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan. Book 1, Princess of Zamibia, is still in production, but since Princess of Estoria is available, I’m going to share audio excerpts with you in my Readers Lounge before the release of the audiobook, and I have a teaser sample for you right now.

This scene takes place after Andres flies Angela to Miami for dinner, and then he tells her he won’t be able to see her again for another month. She’s already concerned about spending time with him–a prince!–and having to be apart from him for so long upsets her. Listen below.

Date: Thursday, March 3rd at 7:00 pm ET

Join the Lounge: https://bit.ly/3sRgyh5

Quiz: How well do you know the Johnson family?

Today’s blog post is a brain teaser to kick off the week!

I’ve completed three family series: the Hawthorne family, the Johnson family, and the Brooks family. The Johnson Family is my most popular family series thus far. How well do you know them? 

Take the quiz below and then let me know how you did in the comments. Good luck!

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Use the share icons below to share the quiz with a friend. And tell us how you did in the comments!

4 Keys to a happy marriage and a happily ever after

Happy Valentine’s Day! 

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, I wanted to find out what is the secret to a happy marriage? As a romance author, I write stories where the hero and heroine not only get together, it’s expected that they’ll marry and live happily ever after in some sort of union—typically marriage. That’s all well and good for romantic fiction, but how do couples achieve their happily ever in real life?

I asked people on my Facebook fan page to give me their best advice on how they’ve managed to have a happy marriage. I had only one requirement—the person giving the advice must have been married for at least five years. Here’s some of what they said has been key to their marital bliss.

Communication

No surprise that communication was one of the most popular responses, so I decided to list it first. Spouses should feel comfortable talking to each other about their wants, needs, dreams, and fantasies, and by communicating with your spouse, you make sure you’re on the same page about various aspects of your relationship. Gn P said communication is the key to her marriage lasting 33 years, and Elizabeth R said, “Communication is key, you have to figure out how to talk to each other and how to listen to each other.” So talking and listening is very important to a marriage’s longevity.

Honesty

The word honesty came up a number of times as well and is important for building trust in relationships. Lying or keeping secrets can create a rift that’s difficult to overcome. It’s hard to have your partner’s back if you can’t trust them, and it’s hard to be vulnerable with someone you don’t trust. If you’re not being open and honest with your spouse—the person you’re sharing your life with—that’s a huge problem.

Spend time together—alone

If I had to guess, I’d say this is an often overlooked aspect of marriage. It’s so easy to get caught up with daily life—bills, work, family issues, etc. Several of the married couples stressed spending time together was important, and it makes sense. Alone time keeps the romance alive and helps couples connect. Author Synithia Williams suggested that it’s perfectly fine to take trips without the kids, and Karen B-W said “go on dates!” Time alone can keep a marriage fresh and exciting, and as an added bonus, children in the family will see an example of what a healthy relationship should look like.

Friendship

According to the married couples, friendship coupled with mutual respect is a winning combination for a happily ever after. Tai-isha J said her marriage works because they were friends first, and author Eliana West said, “My husband is my best friend, he is the person who, at the end of the day I want to share my successes with and who I look to for comfort when I fail, and I try to be that person for him.” Enough said.

Honorable Mentions

–   Keep others out your business

–   Never leave the house without a kiss goodbye

–   Pray together

Thank you

A big thank you to everyone who shared their advice! Here’s how long they’ve been married:

Noreen S, 59 years

Evelyn V, 42 years

Charlotte B, 38 years

Sherryl S, 35 years

Gn P, 33 years

Eliana West, 30 years

Paquita H, 23 years

Angela S, 23 years

Damali T, 20 years

Tara L-H, 20 years

Elizabeth R, 19 years

Karen B-W, 17 years

Synithia Williams, 16 years

Tai-isha J, 6 years

____

Do you agree with this list for a happily ever after in marriage? What other advice would you add?

Blog tour & giveaway for Ethan

This is a busy week for Ethan! I’m having a book chat on Thursday, February 10, where I’ll talk about the novel and answer reader questions. Also, all week long Ethan is on tour (February 7-11), getting shown some love by dozens of bloggers and instagrammers, thanks to Xpresso Book Tours.

To participate in the book chat, join the Readers Lounge.For a chance to win the $25 gift card during the blog tour, simply enter using the Rafflecopter link or its widget below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The post Blog tour & giveaway for Ethan appeared first on Delaney Diamond.

5 Romantic movies for your next watch party

Romantic movies are having a bit of a renaissance in Hollywood, thanks, in part, to the phenomenal success of made-for-TV adaptation blockbusters like Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton, B.B. Easton’s 44 Chapters About 4 Men, and Robyn Carr’s Virgin series. 

Nowadays, romance lovers have plenty of choices to get our romance fix, but I’ve compiled a short list of the more popular new and upcoming releases. I don’t normally watch much TV, or movies for that matter, but I do plan to butter up some popcorn for the films below.

BRAZEN Movie PosterBrazen

Starring: Alyssa Milano and Sam Page

Trailer: https://youtu.be/WJPSSL2lSjU 

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Available on Netflix

Based on the novel Brazen Virtue by Nora Roberts. Mystery writer Grace Miller is famous for her instinct for solving crimes. When her sister is murdered, she is forced to use all of her talents in an attempt to capture the culprit.

THE LOST CITY Movie PosterThe Lost City

Starring: Sandra Bullock; Channing Tatum; Daniel Radcliffe; Da’Vine Joy Randolph; Brad Pitt

Trailer: https://youtu.be/nfKO9rYDmE8  

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Available in theaters and on Paramount+

Brilliant, but reclusive author Loretta Sage (Sandra Bullock) has spent her career writing about exotic places in her popular romance-adventure novels featuring handsome cover model Alan (Channing Tatum), who has dedicated his life to embodying the hero character, “Dash.” While on tour promoting her new book with Alan, Loretta is kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire (Daniel Radcliffe) who hopes that she can lead him to the ancient lost city’s treasure from her latest story. Wanting to prove that he can be a hero in real life and not just on the pages of her books, Alan sets off to rescue her. Thrust into an epic jungle adventure, the unlikely pair will need to work together to survive the elements and find the ancient treasure before it’s lost forever. 

MARRY ME Movie PosterMarry Me

Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, and MALUMA

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Ebv9_rNb5Ig

Release Date: Valentine’s Day 2022

Available in theaters and on Paramount+

Lopez stars as musical superstar Kat Valdez and Owen Wilson as Charlie Gilbert, a math teacher—total strangers who agree to marry and then get to know each other. An unlikely romance about two different people searching for something real in a world where value is based on likes and followers, Marry Me is a modern love story about celebrity, marriage, and social media.

BOOK OF LOVE Movie PosterBook of Love

Starring: Sam Claflin, Verónica Echegui, and Fernando Becerril

Trailer: https://youtu.be/GCJQzPjyxys 

Release Date: February 14, 2022

Available on Amazon Prime Video

Uptight English writer Henry discovers that his dull, failing novel has become a smashing success in Mexico, where Spanish translator Maria has rewritten it into a spicy erotic read.  Opposites attract as the two travel through Mexico on a book tour in Book of Love.

I WANT YOU BACK Movie PosterI Want You Back

Starring: Charlie Day, Jenny Slate, Scott Eastwood

Trailer: https://youtu.be/AJ_Zry9KLb8  

Release Date: February 4, 2022

Available on Amazon Prime Video

Peter and Emma are total strangers. When they meet, they realize they were both dumped on the same weekend. Their commiseration turns into a mission when they see that each of their ex-partners have happily moved on to new romances. They team up to sabotage their exes’ new relationships and win them back for good.

That’s enough to keep me busy over a long weekend. What about you? Do you plan to watch any of the above movies? Tell me about others in the comments!

5 Romantic Movies for Your Next Watch Party

Romantic movies are having a bit of a renaissance in Hollywood, thanks, in part, to the phenomenal success of made-for-TV adaptation blockbusters like Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton, B.B. Easton’s 44 Chapters About 4 Men, and Robyn Carr’s Virgin series. 

Nowadays, romance lovers have plenty of choices to get our romance fix, but I’ve compiled a short list of the more popular new and upcoming releases. I don’t normally watch much TV, or movies for that matter, but I do plan to butter up some popcorn for the films below.

BRAZEN Movie PosterBrazen

Starring: Alyssa Milano and Sam Page

Trailer: https://youtu.be/WJPSSL2lSjU 

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Available on Netflix

Based on the novel Brazen Virtue by Nora Roberts. Mystery writer Grace Miller is famous for her instinct for solving crimes. When her sister is murdered, she is forced to use all of her talents in an attempt to capture the culprit.

THE LOST CITY Movie PosterThe Lost City

Starring: Sandra Bullock; Channing Tatum; Daniel Radcliffe; Da’Vine Joy Randolph; Brad Pitt

Trailer: https://youtu.be/nfKO9rYDmE8  

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Available in theaters and on Paramount+

Brilliant, but reclusive author Loretta Sage (Sandra Bullock) has spent her career writing about exotic places in her popular romance-adventure novels featuring handsome cover model Alan (Channing Tatum), who has dedicated his life to embodying the hero character, “Dash.” While on tour promoting her new book with Alan, Loretta is kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire (Daniel Radcliffe) who hopes that she can lead him to the ancient lost city’s treasure from her latest story. Wanting to prove that he can be a hero in real life and not just on the pages of her books, Alan sets off to rescue her. Thrust into an epic jungle adventure, the unlikely pair will need to work together to survive the elements and find the ancient treasure before it’s lost forever. 

MARRY ME Movie PosterMarry Me

Starring: Jennifer Lopez, Owen Wilson, and MALUMA

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Ebv9_rNb5Ig

Release Date: Valentine’s Day 2022

Available in theaters and on Paramount+

Lopez stars as musical superstar Kat Valdez and Owen Wilson as Charlie Gilbert, a math teacher—total strangers who agree to marry and then get to know each other. An unlikely romance about two different people searching for something real in a world where value is based on likes and followers, Marry Me is a modern love story about celebrity, marriage, and social media.

BOOK OF LOVE Movie PosterBook of Love

Starring: Sam Claflin, Verónica Echegui, and Fernando Becerril

Trailer: https://youtu.be/GCJQzPjyxys 

Release Date: February 14, 2022

Available on Amazon Prime Video

Uptight English writer Henry discovers that his dull, failing novel has become a smashing success in Mexico, where Spanish translator Maria has rewritten it into a spicy erotic read.  Opposites attract as the two travel through Mexico on a book tour in Book of Love.

I WANT YOU BACK Movie PosterI Want You Back

Starring: Charlie Day, Jenny Slate, Scott Eastwood

Trailer: https://youtu.be/AJ_Zry9KLb8  

Release Date: February 4, 2022

Available on Amazon Prime Video

Peter and Emma are total strangers. When they meet, they realize they were both dumped on the same weekend. Their commiseration turns into a mission when they see that each of their ex-partners have happily moved on to new romances. They team up to sabotage their exes’ new relationships and win them back for good.

That’s enough to keep me busy over a long weekend. What about you? Do you plan to watch any of the above movies? Tell me about others in the comments!

The post 5 Romantic Movies for Your Next Watch Party appeared first on Delaney Diamond.

How do I keep my man from cheating?

Hello!

I have a treat for you. Lindsay the Sexy Diva is giving out advice on my blog today. If you don’t know who she is, she is a podcaster, author, radio host, and the heroine of my novel Wild Thoughts (Brooks Family #4). Her road to happily ever after was a bit bumpy after she and Malik Brooks pretended to be engaged. He’s an introvert, she’s an extrovert. He was celibate, she was… not. Of course they end up falling for each other!

Lindsay will stop by my blog once a month to share dating, relationship, and sex advice. She likes to tell it like it is, so be prepared for frank but helpful counsel. The following excerpt is from her podcast. Check out her response below.

______

Lindsay brought her mouth close to the microphone.“Hey girlfriends, I received this email late last night, and it’s a tough one.

Dear Lindsay, eighteen months ago I ended a relationship that sapped me of my self-esteem. My ex was a serial cheater, and after constantly forgiving him, I made the hard decision to walk away. Three months ago I met a man who has been great, so far. He’s attentive, funny, and I believe he really cares about me. The problem is, I’m worried he’s going to cheat like my ex. I can’t go through the same pain I did before and really want this relationship to work. What can I do to make sure my new man doesn’t cheat? Signed, Anxious in Sacramento.

Many of us have been cheated on, including me, and we all know it’s very painful. Cheating can cause depression, low self-esteem, shame, and even cause us to question what we could have done differently—wrongly placing the blame on ourselves instead of the cheater!

Anxious in Sacramento, you seem to be placing some blame on yourself, and I need to set you straight.

There is nothing you can do to keep a man from cheating if that’s what he wants to do. Let me say that again–there is nothing you can do. You can’t spend 24 hours a day with him, and even if you did, I promise you a determined cheater will find a 25th hour to slip away and cheat. Can I get an Amen?

It’s not your job to keep him from cheating. That implies you bear some responsibility for any infidelity, and you do not. Your new man has free will, just like your ex, and I suspect you did all kinds of things to try to keep your ex in line too, didn’t you? You said he was a serial cheater, so after the first time you probably changed your clothes or your hair to appear more attractive. Maybe you stopped “nagging.” Then he cheated again, so you made more changes. But he cheated again.

What does that tell you? Like I said, there is nothing you can do to keep a man from cheating on you. That’s not your burden to bear! Once you accept you can’t control your man’s behavior, and you’re not responsible for his behavior in any way, the anxiety you feel will start to dissipate. But don’t be afraid to talk to someone about your pain and insecurity—a close friend, a counselor, or a therapist—could help you sort out your feelings.

Regarding your new man, treat him like an individual, and not like he’s Ex-Boyfriend 2.0. Spend time enjoying the freshness of this relationship. Focus on what you like about him, what attracted you to him, and why you gave him your number in the first place.

Prioritize the joy in your relationship. Plan a day where you visit a part of the city neither of you have visited before, and explore it together. Volunteer together or take a class and learn something new, like a new language, how to roller skate, or simply bake a cake from scratch. New relationships can be exciting and fun, and you’ll miss out on the fun if your mind is stuck in that previous relationship.

Finally, don’t allow your ex to rob anymore joy from your life. He’s caused you enough pain. I know it’s not easy to let go of the past, but you can do it, and baby, you deserve to be happy.

Until next time, girlfriends. This is Lindsay the Sexy Diva, reminding you that a healthy relationship begins with you. Be the best you can be, in and out of the bedroom. Goodnight.”

______

What do you think about Lindsay’s advice? What else would you add?

The post How do I keep my man from cheating? appeared first on Delaney Diamond.

The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 4

Ethan releases tomorrow, so this is the last chapter in the Ethan prequel. Hope you enjoyed getting to know Skye and Ethan before the book release on Friday!

“Welcome,” Ethan said, opening the door to the suite. 

Skye stepped through the door ahead of him and into the posh room. Designed to look like an apartment, the room contained plush cream carpet, a dining area, comfortable-looking sofas arranged around a glass table, and across from them, two large windows presented the Atlanta nighttime skyline in all its glory. 

The buildings reached toward the sky in the darkness, all of them illuminated by squares of light on each floor. 

“Mind if I take off my shoes?” Skye asked over her shoulder.

“Not at all. Make yourself at home. Get comfortable.” 

Ethan’s eyes swept her body down to her feet, and she felt his gaze like a touch on her bare back where the dress dipped to right above her bottom. She removed her heels and came close to sighing, wiggling her toes in the soft threads of the carpet. 

She strolled to the window. “You weren’t kidding. This is a marvelous view.”

She turned away from the window and watched Ethan make his way to the small bar. Behind the glossy surface, three shelves were stocked with all types of liquor choices. 

“Can I fix you a drink?” he asked. 

“Water is fine. I’ve had enough to drink for the evening.”

Besides, she needed to keep a clear head. She suspected she could easily lose her common sense with this man. 

Ethan poured them both a glass of water and handed one to her.

“Thank you.” Skye sipped the chilled water. “Do you live here?”

He shook his head. “I have a house outside the city. I sometimes spend the night here when I don’t want to go all the way home. It’s especially convenient if I work late and tell my driver he doesn’t have to pick me up. Then I just come here to sleep.”

“You have a driver? Must be nice.” He must be extremely well off. Perhaps wealthier than she initially thought. 

He chuckled. “Yes, it is.”   

Skye’s gaze sauntered around the spacious room. She figured the door at the far end led to a bedroom, but what captured her attention was the black piano. 

“Explain that.” She pointed. “Don’t tell me you play.” 

“You sound surprised. What if I told you I do?”

“You play the piano?” 

“It’s not for show, I can tell you that.” He leaned on one arm against the bar. “I started playing my freshman year of high school and took two years of piano before I stopped.” 

Her eyes widened. “No way.” 

If true, this was a side of him she hadn’t expected. 

Ethan shrugged. “Blame teenage hormones. The private school I attended offered classical piano classes as an elective. I signed up for the class because a girl I liked took piano, and I wanted to be near her.”

Skye let out a short laugh and shook her head. “How many times have teenaged boys used similar tactics to be near a girl or impress her?”

“Too many.” Ethan drained his glass and set it on the bar top. “I ended up enjoying the class.”

“Did you get the girl?” Skye asked, a teasing lift to her eyebrow.

“What do you think?” 

If he looked anything in high school like he did now, he didn’t need that class to win his crush. Ethan had great bone structure, making his symmetrical face sexy and appealing, and his dark-mahogany skin was smooth-looking and blemish-free. 

“I think you got the girl,” she answered. 

“I did,” he confirmed. “Our “relationship” didn’t last more than a school year, but after we broke up, I continued to take classes until I moved on to other electives.”

“As an adult, you decided you wanted to continue playing?” 

“I don’t get to play much, but I have a piano here and at the house for when I’m in the mood. I practice because I don’t want to lose the skill.” 

Skye’s attention bounced between him and the piano. “You know you have to play for me, right?”

“Why? You don’t believe I play? You need me to prove I’m telling the truth?”

 “I’m a little doubtful,” she admitted with a grin.

His face turned grim with mock gravity. “Prepare to be impressed.”

“Oh boy, you’re serious now, aren’t you?” Skye stifled a laugh at the back of her hand.

Smooth as you please, Ethan removed his jacket and tie, folding and placing them on the sofa. The little strip tease turned her on and gave a better view of his physique. She admired his lean hips and how his wide chest funneled into a vee from the waist up. She watched with bated breath as he rolled back the cuffs of his shirt and strolled over to the piano bench, exuding confidence.

The man was just sexy, and she became aroused. If he could really play, she might come on the spot.  

Ethan sat on the bench and straightened his shoulders. He held up his hands and wiggled his fingers. Skye chuckled at his theatrics and then ambled over to the piano. She found Ethan fascinating. 

On the one hand, he was a wealthy investor giving off an unyielding, arrogant air. On the other hand, he was generous to staff, kind to her, and to her surprise, had a good sense of humor. He was a study in contrasts. 

Ethan lifted the keyboard cover and, after a brief moment, began to play. His fingers ran across the keys in a recognizable tune—Beethoven’s “Fur Elise.” Her mouth fell open. 

Using excellent form, Ethan played the entire song without flaw, performing like a professional. When he finished, he lifted his gaze to her. 

“Well…?” Nothing but cockiness in that single-word question. 

“Wow. I. Am. Impressed.” And turned on, she added in her head. 

Skye moved to the other side of the bench and sat beside Ethan. 

“Don’t tell me you play too…?” he said. 

She laughed. “My mom wrote jingles and composed music for plays. I grew up in a house filled with music, and though I don’t have any formal training, I learned to play because of her.” 

She flipped the sheet music to Mozart’s “Piano Sonata No. 11 in A Major, K 331: III. Alla Turca.” “Let’s see if you can follow my lead.” 

She started playing, fingers moving rapidly over the keys. Ethan jumped in, and after a brief stumble, they played together as if they’d been practicing for weeks. 

The bouncy tune and the overall excitement of playing rejuvenated Skye and made her feel alive. Laughing, she bumped shoulders with Ethan and grinned when he bumped hers back. 

When the song ended, she threw her hands up and fell against him, giggling. “That was fun! We make a great team.” 

Ethan’s warm hand rested on the back of her neck, and his intense dark gaze locked with hers. “Yes, we do.” 

Silence filled the room, and Skye’s pulse quickened. 

“I love your laugh,” Ethan said.

His thumb moved back and forth across the top of her spine. 

When he leaned in, she had time to react. She could have pulled back. She could have turned her head and said no or lifted a hand against his chest to stop him. She did none of those things. 

Instead, she closed the gap between them and welcomed the kiss. When their mouths touched, her heart exploded in her chest, racing and beating fast. Ethan’s hand tightened on her nape and held her firm so he could push his tongue between her lips and deepen the kiss. Heat jettisoned between her thighs, her nipples hardening and fingers curling into a fist on the bench next to her thigh. Her nails dug into her palms as her chest heaved from the coming excitement.

Ethan pulled her onto his lap with ease so she straddled him. Not once did he release her lips, masterfully taking her higher as their mouths moved hungrily over each other. She’d imagined what his mouth would feel like and taste like, but the reality was much better than the mediocrity conjured by her mind. Ethan’s kisses were blissfully good and his mouth the right balance of firm and soft. 

Her hands snaked up the back of his broad neck and into the short, coily hair on his head. He peeled the dress off her shoulder and, tipping her head back, she let feverish passion overtake her—a feeling she hadn’t experienced in a long time. 

One of his hands slid up her thigh, pushing her dress higher so he could cup her ass and drag her tighter against his groin. The impact of his hardness against her soft core made heat flood between her legs. Ethan squeezed her ass while his teeth nipped gently at her sensitive throat. Their breathing was harsh and inelegant in the room, a testament to the craving they both experienced and longed to assuage.  

Ethan buried his mouth in the curve of her neck, and her lips parted on a hoarse moan. Thighs on either side of his waist, Skye flattened her breasts into his hard chest to relieve the ache in her nipples. 

“How about we take this back to the bedroom?” His deep voice was nothing more than a husky whisper. 

Skye nodded her agreement.

Cradling her bottom in his large hands, Ethan stood with her in his arms. She was lightheaded from desire, and her heart thudded with the speed of an out-of-control locomotive. But she was not so lightheaded that she didn’t know exactly what she was doing. She wanted Ethan and grasped the back of his head as she kissed the corners of his mouth and swiped his tongue with hers—all of these acts signaling the acuteness of her desire and that she was all in.

Ethan marched them through the door she saw earlier. The room was dark, with the only light coming through the parted curtains from the buildings around the hotel.  

Ethan placed Skye on her feet beside the bed and then lifted the gold dress over her head. She stood before him in nothing but a black thong—bare-breasted and ready for him to make love to her.

“You’re a beautiful woman, Skye.” He placed a soft kiss on top of each of her breasts. But then he lifted his gaze and looked into her eyes. “Do you remember what I said in the bar?”

She nodded. “I haven’t forgotten. You told me you’re the kind of man I should avoid.” 

“That’s right.” He searched her eyes for the answer to his unspoken question.

“You also told me you don’t play games. Neither do I, Ethan. I enjoyed my time with you tonight—the dinner, the conversation.” She hooked a finger in the waistband of his trousers and pulled him closer. They were mere inches apart now. “I don’t have any expectations, except to continue our good time.”

She gave the answer he’d wanted to hear because heat sparked in his eyes, and his mouth covered hers in a fierce kiss. They fell onto the bed, their mouths sliding over other each in an amorous caress. 

Skye yanked his shirt from his waistband and smoothed her palms over the muscles in his back. She groaned her satisfaction as his fit body pressed her into the mattress. 

Ethan rained kisses over her breasts and sucked on her sensitive nipples. Writhing under the consuming heat of hunger, Skye caressed Ethan’s head as he slowly moved lower—licking the underside of her breasts and then kissing his way to her navel.  

She had no idea what would happen after tonight. Ethan had made no promises and, in fact, had issued a warning. 

But this was hot. It was passionate. It was exciting. 

She would enjoy herself tonight and let tomorrow worry about itself.

__________

Ethan arrives on January 28, 2022.

Buy links: Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | BN | Apple | Kobo | Google Play

Join my Readers Lounge to participate in the release party on January 28 and the book chat on February 10.

The post The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 4 appeared first on Delaney Diamond.

The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 3

I’m writing a prequel to Ethan, which takes place seven years before the novel so you can see how Ethan and Skye met. I’m dropping a chapter every morning until the release on Friday. Enjoy!

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

With dinner choices completed and glasses of wine before them, Ethan relaxed in the chair and decided to learn more about Skye. “So tell me, what do you do when you’re not being stood up on a Friday night by an idiot named Joshua?”

She let out the cutest laugh, a sparkle in her brown eyes as she watched him across the table. “Instead of being angry, I guess I should be concerned. He could have had an accident or be deathly ill.”

“He better be for standing you up,” Ethan said. “But we both know neither happened, or there would have at least been a reservation at the front.”

“True,” she said, nodding slowly. “Well, when I’m not being stood up, I’m working. I started a new job recently, at a community learning center in Decatur. I love it. It’s rewarding work. We offer after school care for kids, providing snacks and organizing tutors to help them with their homework. I look forward to going to work every day.” 

Her eyes lit up and color bloomed in her cheeks as she talked about her work with the children.

“Not many people can say they enjoy their work to such a degree.”

“I know I’m lucky, believe me. I plan to work there for as long as they’ll have me. So, how did you come to own The Rose Hotel?”

Ethan chuckled. “Long story.”

“We have time before our meals arrive.” Skye rested her chin on the heel of her hand and gave him her undivided attention. 

The warmth in her eyes drew him in, and because she seemed interested, he proceeded. “I’ll give you the abridged version. My father passed away when I was little, and my mother remarried when I was ten, to this Mexican guy I didn’t like at all.”

“Uh, oh.”

“Yeah, I was that kid. He had a funny accent—at least that’s what my kid brain thought—and he wasn’t my dad. Anyway, my stepfather, Benicio, had the patience of Job and eventually, we developed a good relationship. When I graduated from high school, I wanted a car and was certain I was going to get one. Instead, he took me to an abandoned property. The yard was overgrown with weeds and the house looked like crap. It was a shell of a place—boarded up and more or less falling apart.”

He could see his storytelling intrigued her. She hung on every word as he spoke.

“He told me I could have the car, or I could have this place, and he’d help me fix it up. When I turned a profit, I could buy my own car.”

“You chose the house,” Skye said, lifting her white wine.

“Not at first. Remember, I was eighteen.”

She paused with the glass almost to her lips and laughed. The sound was like a punch in the gut. It filled his ears with an almost musical quality, and for two seconds he forgot the rest of the story, having to shake off the haze before he continued.

“Anyway, we went to the dealership, and he was about to plunk down twelve grand for a used car, whereas that rundown place he could get for ten grand. Much as I wanted a car, which I’d been dreaming about since I turned sixteen, something told me I should get the property. So, we left the dealership without the car.  

“Benicio gave me the deed to the property and a loan to fix it up. I had to do a lot of the work myself, hired friends to help me, and consulted my stepfather from time to time. By the end of the summer, I had a two-bedroom, one bath house rented out and earning income. Ever since then, I’ve been fascinated by real estate.”

Skye’s eyebrows lifted higher. “Amazing.”

“As for this hotel, a while back, I heard the owners were teetering on the edge of bankruptcy and bought the place at a discount. Renovated it and reopened under its new name—The Rose Hotel. Named after my mother. The rest is history.”

“I want a hotel named after me,” Skye teased, with a sexy pout. 

Ethan smiled, imagining the many ways he could indulge in the pleasures of that mouth. 

“My mother deserved it. Things were rough after my father passed, and she worked hard for us.”

“You said ‘us.’ How many siblings do you have?”

Ethan shifted in the chair, relaxing as the conversation continued. “There were three of us before my mother married Benicio—me and two younger sisters. Benicio had three sons.”

“Three and three, like the Brady Bunch.” 

He’d heard similar comments many times before. “Something like that. There are seven of us now. My mother and Benicio had a son. Do you have any siblings?” He sipped his wine. 

Her mood shifted right away, and her eyes saddened. “My parents passed away when I was seventeen. Car accident. I was their only child and very spoiled.”

“I’m sorry,” Ethan said.

He had a sudden need to return the smile to her face and put the sparkle back in her eyes. 

“Thank you,” she whispered. 

The moment passed, and their conversation continued. He learned she wasn’t a morning person and had an aversion to snakes and lizards. He shared he was an early morning person and had a severe shellfish allergy. 

He talked way more about himself than usual. After a bitter divorce, he’d become cynical about relationships. Putting monogamy on the back burner, he changed women often and didn’t allow a single one of them to get too close, never allowing them to venture deeper than the surface. 

But Skye was… different, somehow. She not only intrigued him, she drew him in. She was easy to talk to, and he didn’t mind opening up to her in a way he didn’t usually when he first met a woman. 

Their food arrived. A grilled pork chop with a curry ginger rub and apple slaw for her, and a ribeye, potatoes, and steamed vegetables for him.

After a couple of bites, Skye nodded her head. “This is delicious. Juicy and very flavorful.” She cut off another piece of meat.

“The chefs here are excellent. Matter of fact, save room for dessert. We have an extensive dessert menu.”

She looked up with interest. “Tell me you have cheesecake. That’s my favorite dessert.” 

“You’ll love our cheesecake. It’s the best in the city.” 

“The best?” She quirked an eyebrow, a playful gleam in her eyes. “That’s quite a bold statement.”

“It’s the truth,” Ethan said. 

“I’ll be the judge of that.” 

He didn’t say another word, knowing the pastry chef he’d hired away from the Ritz-Carlton created such delicious desserts, her reputation was part of the reason they remained booked solid on the weekends. 

After the meal, Ethan passed on dessert, opting for a cup of coffee only. Skye ordered a New York cheesecake with cherry topping. He watched her slice into the rich dessert and place a forkful in her mouth. Then he waited, right hand on the table, fingers curled into the handle of his cup. 

Her eyes crossed. “Oh. My. Goodness. Okay, this might be the best cheesecake I’ve ever eaten.” She took another bite and swallowed it with a groan of contentment. Nodding vigorously, she added, “Yes, definitely the best.” 

Ethan spread the fingers of his left hand, as if to say, I told you so. “I never lie.”

She laughed a little. “Never?” 

“Let’s just say I avoid lying at all costs and hate being lied to,” he said, voice grim. The confession chilled the fuzzy warm feeling he’d savored during the meal. 

Skye tilted her head to the side, studying him. “Someone you cared about lied to you, and there were terrible consequences.” She made a statement, but Ethan heard the underlying need for confirmation. 

His jaw clenched. He would not be sharing ancient history with her. He signaled for the waitress to bring the check, and she hurried over and then left them alone again. 

Ethan stuffed bills into the leather portfolio, while Skye scraped the last of the cheesecake from her plate. 

“They make you pay even though you’re the boss?” She placed her fork on the plate and dabbed her mouth with the white cloth napkin. 

Her gaze met his uncertainly across the table, and he realized with a pang that he’d created tension between them by his refusal to address her comment.  

To get the night back on track, he offered a smile and lifted the black case to draw the attention of the server. “The meal is free, but the service is not. I still have to take care of my people.” 

“Thank you, Mr. Connor,” the waitress said, taking the portfolio. “Is there anything else I can get for you and your guest?”

“That will be all. Thank you.” 

“I wish you both a good evening.” The young woman left them alone.

Skye smiled at him. “Everything was delicious. The meal, the to-die-for cheesecake. Thank you very much. You turned around my horrible night, and this view makes it even nicer.” She turned her gaze to the street below. 

“There’s an even better view in my suite upstairs.” 

“Excuse me?”

Crossing one leg over the other, Ethan maintained eye contact. “You heard me.” 

Silence blanketed the table, and anticipation knotted at the base of his spine as he waited for her to come up with a response. 

“Was that an invitation?” she asked, voice soft—but not hesitant. She was flirting with him. 

He sat forward, leaning closer. “Yes. Only if you’re interested in continuing our conversation in a quieter setting—and, of course, if you’d like to see that magnificent view.” 

“What makes you so sure I’ll join you?” She seemed genuinely curious to know what had prompted his invitation. 

“Unless I’ve grown terrible at reading signals, I’d say there is a mutual attraction here.”

“A mutual attraction doesn’t mean I want to join you in your suite.” 

“No, it doesn’t. But you will,” Ethan said.

Skye laughed and shook her head. Then, as if she’d come to a decision, she heaved out a breath and licked her lips. Ethan followed the movement of her pink tongue. 

“I’m not going to sleep with you,” she said. 

“Okay,” he replied, unperturbed by her statement. 

Now that she’d agreed to join him, he promised himself that before the night was over, his tongue would trace the same path her tongue had traveled over her lovely mouth. His teeth would tug on her lush lower lip. And his hands would explore her curves in detail. 

“Ready to see the view?” Ethan asked, pushing back his chair.

“Yes, I’m ready.” 

They both stood and made their way to the exit.

___________

Ethan arrives on January 28, 2022.

Buy links: Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | BN | Apple | Kobo | Google Play

Join my Readers Lounge to participate in the release party on January 28 and the book chat on February 10.

The post The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 3 appeared first on Delaney Diamond.

The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 2

I’m writing a prequel to Ethan, which takes place seven years before the novel so you can see how Ethan and Skye met. I’ll drop a chapter every morning until the release on Friday. Enjoy!

Photo by Adrien Olichon on Unsplash

Skye knew Ethan was watching—could feel his eyes as she moved across the floor. For his benefit, she added a little more swing to her hips as she placed one foot in front of the other and slipped through the glass doors.

For some reason, she wanted this man’s attention. Well, in all honesty, she knew the reason. He was handsome. No, calling him handsome didn’t fit. He was way too… striking for such a tame word. He had mahogany-brown skin, a square jaw, and a voice that made her wonder what he would sound like if his voice was nothing but a hot whisper in her ear.

Too bad he’d made it plain he wasn’t looking for anything serious.

Skye entered the bathroom, where classic jazz oozed through the speakers and marble countertops gleamed under the recessed lights. She checked her makeup and refreshed her lipstick, her thoughts drawn again to the man at the bar.

She laughed, shaking her head at how rude she’d been to him at first. That was all Joshua’s fault for putting her in a bad mood.

“Well, Joshua,” she said to her reflection, “if you’re not interested in meeting me tonight, I guess I’ll be my own date and have dinner by myself.” She didn’t mind dining alone, and the food here was notoriously excellent.

After a quick assessment of the back of her dress—yes, her butt looked amazing—she exited the bathroom and took the stairs to the second floor. She strolled to the hostess stand of The Petal Room, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, and waited her turn while other guests were served.

Finally, it was her turn.

“Good evening. I’m here for dinner. You should have a reservation under Joshua James at eight o’clock. I’m a few minutes late.”

The Petal Room was a popular spot for Atlanta residents who wanted fine dining and a quiet ambience. Having done her research, she knew the restaurant was typically packed on the weekends, and reservations were hard to come by. Joshua insisted he had made a reservation weeks before, so she was confident that though she’d be dining alone, there was a table waiting for her.

Two young women and a man worked behind the large podium, which housed a computer screen displaying the dining room and the reservations for the night.

“Did you say the reservation was for eight, ma’am?” A woman with the name tag Cheryl, asked. She was Asian, with long black hair falling past her armpits in a body wave.

“Yes, and I’m late, but I was waiting downstairs for my date. Unfortunately, he didn’t show up, and I can’t reach him by phone. I’d still like to take advantage of the table, however.”

Cheryl’s eyebrows drew together as she stared at the screen. “Could the reservation have been on another night?” she asked cautiously.

Skye craned her neck forward, trying to see the screen but unable to. “No, absolutely not. We agreed on tonight. Unless he made a mistake and scheduled dinner for tomorrow night?” She hoped this fool hadn’t screwed up the dates.

“Let me check.”

Skye kept her gaze on the young woman, noting how her eyes scrolled down the options. Unease filtered into her belly the longer the search took.

Seeing the frowning consternation on the hostess’s face, she asked, “Nothing?” Though she tried to remain optimistic.

“I don’t see a reservation, but let me speak to the senior hostess and find out if she knows something I don’t.”

“Wouldn’t it be on the screen? Could he have canceled the reservation?” Skye asked. This night couldn’t possibly get any worse.

“I doubt that, ma’am. Even if he did, we would have it notated in the system. I don’t see where there was ever a reservation made in the name of Joshua James. Is it possible it could have been in another name?”

“I can’t believe this. If he didn’t make the reservation…” Skye did her best to put a friendly smile on her face. “Check under my name. Skye Thorpe. I was really looking forward to eating here. That would at least made tonight not so terrible.”

“Of course.” Cheryl nodded vigorously and continued her search. Finally, she looked at Skye and shook her head regretfully. “I’m so sorry, but I don’t see a reservation for James or Thorpe, and I tried spelling your name with an E and without an E.”

“This must be a mistake. Maybe someone forgot to take the reservation. Are there any cancellations? Maybe I can take someone else’s table.” She grimaced at the desperation in her voice, but she simply wanted to salvage what was left of an already rotten night.

“We had one cancellation tonight, but guests on the waiting list have already taken that table. If you like, you can sit at the bar and—”

“I do not want to sit at the bar.” Skye fixed a tight smile on her face. “I had plans to eat in the dining room, and that’s where I want to eat. Is there a manager here? Maybe they can come up with a solution for me.”

She shouldn’t be so worked up about a reservation, but she had looked forward to eating here for a while, and to be deprived of the one treat she’d allowed herself in weeks—due to no fault of her own—seemed unconscionable.

“Problem?”

The smooth, low voice came from behind her, and when Skye cast a glance over her right shoulder, she caught her breath. It was the man from downstairs—Ethan. Seated at the bar, she hadn’t experienced the full effect of his height—several inches above six feet. Rather nice, considering she felt like an Amazon in these five-inch heels.

“Nothing for you to concern yourself about,” she said. Though, oddly, his presence added a sense of calm to her frayed nerves. He had a certain take-charge energy.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Connor. Miss Thorpe says she had a reservation, but we can’t find it.”

Cheryl appeared to be genuinely distressed.

“I’m not trying to upset you,” Skye said, feeling guilty. “I just assumed that my date, Mr. James, had made the reservation, but now I’m not sure. Which means he never had any intention of coming tonight at all, and he just didn’t mention it to me.” She fiddled with her wristlet, utterly humiliated by the turn of events. “I had hoped to have a nice dinner, but I see that’s not in the cards.”

“Maybe I can help,” Ethan said smoothly. “If you still want to have a nice dinner.”

Skye shot him a benevolent smile. “Let me tell you a secret. Unless you have a reservation, you’re not getting a table here tonight. They’re completely booked. She already checked.”

Amusement filled his dark eyes and tugged at the corners of his full, enticing lips. “I have a table.”

“Your usual table is ready, Mr. Connor,” Cheryl said.

Something about the hostess’s deference gave Skye pause. She looked between them, sensing this man must be very important. “What am I missing here?”

He smiled. She didn’t think it was possible, but he looked even sexier when his expression softened. Her skin heated and the sudden tug of attraction pulled at her loins. Her gaze ran over him quickly, studying the savage beauty of his face and the glovelike fit of his suit. What does Mr. Ethan Connor look like under that suit? she wondered. She imagined him with the mouth-watering physique of a muscular chest, firm biceps, and long, powerful legs. Almost immediately, she took a deep breath to clear away the dirty thoughts that threatened to drag her mind into the gutter.

“This is my hotel,” Ethan said. “I also have an ownership interest in the restaurant. As I mentioned, I have a table available, if you’d still like to have dinner and wouldn’t mind joining me instead of dining alone.”

Skye felt her eyes expand. “This is your hotel and restaurant?”

“That’s correct.” The smile tipped the corners of his mouth higher.

Skye covered her lips with her hand. “Oh, my goodness. You never said a word.”

“It didn’t come up. So, about dinner, would you care to join me?”

He extended an elbow, and after an embarrassed laugh, Skye hooked her arm around his.

“I would love to join you. Thank you,” she said, glad her voice wasn’t shaking the way her insides were.

Just as she suspected, firm muscle pushed against her forearm beneath the expensive jacket, and her skin tingled from the excitement of their touching.

The scent of his cologne invaded her nostrils—something sort of minty and fresh—and she had the overwhelming urge to lean into him. What the heck was wrong with her?

They walked through the crowded dining room to a table way in the back, next to a window overlooking the street one story below. Typical weekend traffic caused cars to crawl while pedestrians hustled to their next destination.

The hostess placed two menus in front of them and disappeared. Ethan didn’t look at his. He kept his eyes on her.

Skye met his gaze. “I owe you an apology. In the bar…”

He shook his head. “You don’t owe me an apology. I have no doubt men bother you all the time, trying to buy you drinks and do much more.”

“Sometimes,” she murmured.

“Your date sounds like quite the character.”

“Joshua. Believe me, if I never see him again, it’ll be too soon.”

He chuckled. Once again, his softened features caused a sensual pull in her loins.

She smiled—genuinely smiled in relief. Her mood had improved, and she was ready to enjoy her meal. “So, what do you recommend?”

“Everything is wonderful here.”

She laughed, feeling light-hearted and flirtatious. “That’s a very biased opinion, yet I’m sure you have a favorite.”

“I do. But before we get started, I have one question for you.” He leaned closer, eyes narrowing slightly.

“What’s that?”

His gaze dipped to her lips for only a fraction of a second, but in that brief moment, she experienced a series of warm sensations. Not only on her lips, but in the pit of her stomach too. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been so enthralled by a man. So excited. So attracted.

“What’s your name?” Ethan asked.

Her heart rate accelerated, as if she were on the road to an exciting adventure.

“Skye. Skye Thorpe.”

___________

Ethan arrives on January 28, 2022.

Buy links: Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | BN | Apple | Kobo | Google Play

Join my Readers Lounge to participate in the release party on January 28 and the book chat on February 10.

The post The Prequel to Ethan: Chapter 2 appeared first on Delaney Diamond.