Empi Baryeh's Blog, page 6
March 2, 2020
Book Review: The Birthday Bid by Suzette D. Harrison | #DistinguishedGentlemenSeries
The Birthday Bid: Distinguished Gentlemen Series by Suzette D. HarrisonIt’s blackmail, blindfolds, and her fortieth birthday. How else would beauty influencer, Senaé Dawson, wind up at a bachelor auction? Whisked away without a say, her besties treat her to a birthday bid at an auction featuring decadent Black men. Inevitably infected by the hype, Senaé’s excitement hits hyper drive until the blindfold’s removed from her eyes. She’s dumbstruck to discover she’s just “bought” her ex-husband.
Lexington “Lex” Ryde turned his love for cars into a multi-million dollar private transportation business serving Black Hollywood’s A-list. His line of work taught Lex to be prepared at a moment’s notice. But seeing his ex-wife face-to-face for the first time in twenty years leaves him feeling as if “sucker-punched by Tyson and Holyfield.” Thanks to their problematic past, neither is pleased with this bachelor auction “ridiculousness”, or the instant flare of hot, sexual attraction erupting between them. But being Mama Peaches’ first foster child, Lex can’t renege. He's stuck with the auction results...and the unpleasant truth that he's still in love with his ex.
Take the ride with Senaé and Lex! They’ll confront a painful past, consider their present, and encounter an unwanted admirer who must be dealt with.
My Review
As a fortieth birthday gift, Sanae's well-meaning best friends drag her to a bachelor auction, intending to get their friend laid. As fate would have it, the bachelor they win turns out to be her ex husband, Lex Ryde. Neither of them is pleased, as there's too much pain in their past. Unfortunately, there are no returns and no refunds for the auction.
From the moment they meet, it is clear Sanae and Lex have unfinished business. The chemistry between them is raw. This story about second chance love was very sweet. It was refreshing to see two characters own up for their respective roles in how things went down in their previous relationship instead of holding on to their grudges. They'd clearly matured and were willing to do what it took to get what (who) they wanted. I enjoyed their journey to rediscover--and rediscover (ahem) they did. Both Lex and Sanae were likable and relatable. I particularly liked the hero's principled nature and his unwavering support for his woman's success.
Sanae's best friends, Lovie, Dove (confusing, cos I always read it as Lovey Dovey) and Ima, were a hoot. I hope Ms Harrison plans on writing their stories.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
View all my reviews
February 28, 2020
Book Review: The Rival Bid by Reese Ryan | #DistinguishedGentlemenSeries
The Rival Bid by Reese RyanShe’ll fight for what she wants...even if she has to make a deal with the devil.
Camilla Anthony painstakingly restores older Chicagoland homes to their former glory. So when the opportunity arises to acquire an abandoned block of homes and a school in her neighborhood of Southlake Park, she’s ready to take on the challenge. But she'll need the help of her former crush and frequent real estate rival.
Mekkai Arrington builds luxury homes in urban communities. Increasingly, he and preservationist Camilla Anthony clash over gentrification. But when Kai reluctantly agrees to participate in a charity bachelor auction, Camilla vies for him and wins. She proposes an alliance that will benefit both of their companies while salvaging a historic neighborhood in their childhood community. But will the fiery passion that erupts between them during their beach getaway blow up their deal?
MY REVIEW
Camilla and Mekkai are childhood friends who could have been more, but a rift between their fathers tears them apart. Years later, as rivals in the construction industry, they both have their eye on the same project, but neither wants to share. Although Camilla warms to the idea, Mekkai stands his ground. The only way to get his attention is to buy a date with him at the bachelor auction.
I loved how Camilla took the necessary step to advance her business. Forced to work together, their attraction, which has lain dormant all this time has a chance to bloom. They have to navigate some past secrets and family drama to get to their happy ending. All worth it. Camilla and Kai were perfect for each other. Their union brought healing and happiness.
If you're looking for a sweet romance, I recommend this enemies-to-lovers story.
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars
View all my reviews
February 20, 2020
February 18, 2020
Prah, Constantine and Baryeh Reviews: Let it Shine by Alyssa Cole
Hello, Folks! Welcome to the first Prah, Constantine and Baryeh Review for 2020. It's the month of love, yes, but more importantly, it's Black History Month, which makes the book we read even more significant - Let It Shine by Alyssa Cole.
Here's the blurb:
Sofronia Wallis knows that proper Black women don’t court trouble by upending the status quo, but it’s 1961 and the Civil Rights movement is in full swing. Sofie’s spent half her life being prim, proper, and reserved—as if that could bring her mother back—but the nonviolent protests happening across the South bring out her inner agitator.
Ivan Friedman has devoted his life to boxing, loving the finesse of a well-delivered punch and the penance of receiving one. His family escaped from Europe before the horrors of WWII, and Ivan decides to help fight injustice in their new country, even if it goes against all his instincts as a fighter.
When Ivan and Sofie meet, they realize that their pasts are intertwined and—with the sparks that fly between them—perhaps their futures will be too. With everything in their society lined up against them, will Sofie and Ivan be able to beat the odds? Or will their chance at love be destroyed by the tumultuous times they live in?
**Let It Shine originally appeared in The Brightest Day: A Juneteenth Historical Romance Anthology. This version features the original story, as well as a bonus short story, No Valley Low.***
My Review
Let it Shine is a short, fast read about a forbidden love in 1961 between a Black woman and a Jew. It was time when such a relationship was illegal. I enjoyed this super sweet romance which started out as a childhood friendship when Sofie's mother used to work for Ivan's family. Through their eyes, we catch a glimpse of some of the realities of the Civil Right Era. I haven't read many books set in 1960s USA, and this was educational.
What I enjoyed most about this story was the narration. I've read a few Alyssa Cole books, but this is the one that made me pause and think, "Alyssa can write!"
I recommend this book anytime, but especially now during Black History Month.
***
Don't forget to head over to check out reviews by Prah and Constantine.
Here's the blurb:
Sofronia Wallis knows that proper Black women don’t court trouble by upending the status quo, but it’s 1961 and the Civil Rights movement is in full swing. Sofie’s spent half her life being prim, proper, and reserved—as if that could bring her mother back—but the nonviolent protests happening across the South bring out her inner agitator.Ivan Friedman has devoted his life to boxing, loving the finesse of a well-delivered punch and the penance of receiving one. His family escaped from Europe before the horrors of WWII, and Ivan decides to help fight injustice in their new country, even if it goes against all his instincts as a fighter.
When Ivan and Sofie meet, they realize that their pasts are intertwined and—with the sparks that fly between them—perhaps their futures will be too. With everything in their society lined up against them, will Sofie and Ivan be able to beat the odds? Or will their chance at love be destroyed by the tumultuous times they live in?
**Let It Shine originally appeared in The Brightest Day: A Juneteenth Historical Romance Anthology. This version features the original story, as well as a bonus short story, No Valley Low.***
My Review
Let it Shine is a short, fast read about a forbidden love in 1961 between a Black woman and a Jew. It was time when such a relationship was illegal. I enjoyed this super sweet romance which started out as a childhood friendship when Sofie's mother used to work for Ivan's family. Through their eyes, we catch a glimpse of some of the realities of the Civil Right Era. I haven't read many books set in 1960s USA, and this was educational.
What I enjoyed most about this story was the narration. I've read a few Alyssa Cole books, but this is the one that made me pause and think, "Alyssa can write!"
I recommend this book anytime, but especially now during Black History Month.
***
Don't forget to head over to check out reviews by Prah and Constantine.
February 12, 2020
BOOK SALE: Journey To Love Sale From Suzette Riddick | #99cents #ValentineSale
JOURNEY TO LOVE SALE FROM SUZETTE RIDDICK
This Valentine's Day take a journey through the lives of five couples as they discover and get reacquainted with love.
A Special Summer
Summer Jackson is inexperienced when it comes to love. That’s until she meets wealthy playboy, Nicholas ‘Nick’ Stiles, who teaches her everything she’s been missing. The only problem is, Nick isn’t the settling down kind. Devastation rocks Summer when Nick walks away, leaving her to pick up the shattered pieces of her life.
Months later, Nick reappears and is in for a massive shock. A love that once was pure is plagued by betrayal, deceit and heartbreak. Will Summer and Nick find true love again?
This is a revised version formerly written under a different pen name with new content.
Mended Hearts
Jason Carr and Lezlie Sharpe have overcome devastating relationships, and are now on a journey to building a forever love… or so they think.
When social worker Lezlie Sharpe is accused of the unthinkable, instead of trusting in Jason’s love, she runs away. Realizing she made a mistake and can’t live without him, she begs for his forgiveness. But, is it too late?
Will Jason be able to get over Lezlie walking out on their love? Or will he be there to help her pick up the pieces?
It's My Turn
Forced to exist in a loveless marriage, Beatrice Warrington was powerless to stand up to her husband. So instead, she takes her anger and frustration out on those closest to her. After years of treating her loved ones horribly, she finds herself alienated, desperate and alone. Terrified, she reaches out to the only man who’s capable of helping her out of the mess she’s created. And she will soon discover he will help her in ways she never imagined.
Charles Allen never expected the likes of Beatrice Warrington to land on his doorstep. For years he despised her because of her devious ways, so helping her was not an option. But a crazy thing happened. Against his better judgment, he agrees to come to her rescue. Little did he know, rescuing her would be the best thing to ever happen to him.
Caliente Nights
Nursery school teacher Jeanette Adams is struggling to keep her family owned business afloat. Working days at the school and nights as a department store clerk is taking its toll physically on Jeanette. When things couldn’t get any worse, she finds herself in a situation that will further burden her financially after she crashes into a luxury vehicle. Romance is the last thing on her mind; that is until she comes face to face with the owner, undeniably sexy, Alonzo Castro.
Professional athlete Alonzo Castro has had it with gold-digging women. All he wants is to meet a woman who isn’t interested in his status or bank account. Beautiful, car-wrecking, Jeanette Adams is the breath of fresh air he’s been craving. Determined to make Jeanette his, Alonzo pursues the sassy teacher despite his parents' desire for him to marry within their nationality.
As the couple’s relationship is thriving their love is tested when Alonzo doesn’t come clean about his past. When his secret is outed by a trusted friend will Jeanette be able to forgive him?
Losing The Bid
Parading in front of a room full of women is not Adrian Collins’ idea of a good time. The last thing he wants to do is fly to Chicago for a bachelor auction. But, how can he refuse to help the woman who nurtured him after his mother abandoned him when he was a toddler? Going back to the site of his deepest wounds is where he’ll meet his destiny, Daphne Turner. Adrian is disappointed when Daphne slips through his fingers after losing the bid to an old flame from his past.
Reeling from the death of her uncle, Daphne accepts her best friend’s offer to attend a fundraiser in the windy city. Good cause or not, the idea of spending hard-earned money on a date is ludicrous. That is, until she locks eyes with ruggedly-handsome bachelor number twelve. Unfortunately, the night doesn't end as Daphne hoped. In the company of a sexy stranger to chase her blues away.
Fate intervenes when Adrian and Daphne’s paths intertwine. However, Adrian's past threatens to rob them of a life of happiness. Will Daphne's love be enough to heal his wounded soul?
AVAILABLE ON AMAZONA SPECIAL SUMMER | CALIENTE NIGHTS | MENDED HEARTS | LOSING THE BID | IT’S MY TURNABOUT SUZETTE RIDDICK
Suzette Riddick is a wife, mother and nurse practitioner who enjoys writing about flawed characters on a quest for love. She is an Amazon Best-Selling Author and was a featured in USA Today ~ Happy Ever After. A native of Philadelphia, PA, Suzette loves to travel, read, and is addicted to Chanel parfum.CONNECT WITH SUZETTEAUTHOR SITE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
This Valentine's Day take a journey through the lives of five couples as they discover and get reacquainted with love.
A Special Summer
Summer Jackson is inexperienced when it comes to love. That’s until she meets wealthy playboy, Nicholas ‘Nick’ Stiles, who teaches her everything she’s been missing. The only problem is, Nick isn’t the settling down kind. Devastation rocks Summer when Nick walks away, leaving her to pick up the shattered pieces of her life.Months later, Nick reappears and is in for a massive shock. A love that once was pure is plagued by betrayal, deceit and heartbreak. Will Summer and Nick find true love again?
This is a revised version formerly written under a different pen name with new content.
Mended Hearts
Jason Carr and Lezlie Sharpe have overcome devastating relationships, and are now on a journey to building a forever love… or so they think.When social worker Lezlie Sharpe is accused of the unthinkable, instead of trusting in Jason’s love, she runs away. Realizing she made a mistake and can’t live without him, she begs for his forgiveness. But, is it too late?
Will Jason be able to get over Lezlie walking out on their love? Or will he be there to help her pick up the pieces?
It's My Turn
Forced to exist in a loveless marriage, Beatrice Warrington was powerless to stand up to her husband. So instead, she takes her anger and frustration out on those closest to her. After years of treating her loved ones horribly, she finds herself alienated, desperate and alone. Terrified, she reaches out to the only man who’s capable of helping her out of the mess she’s created. And she will soon discover he will help her in ways she never imagined.Charles Allen never expected the likes of Beatrice Warrington to land on his doorstep. For years he despised her because of her devious ways, so helping her was not an option. But a crazy thing happened. Against his better judgment, he agrees to come to her rescue. Little did he know, rescuing her would be the best thing to ever happen to him.
Caliente Nights
Nursery school teacher Jeanette Adams is struggling to keep her family owned business afloat. Working days at the school and nights as a department store clerk is taking its toll physically on Jeanette. When things couldn’t get any worse, she finds herself in a situation that will further burden her financially after she crashes into a luxury vehicle. Romance is the last thing on her mind; that is until she comes face to face with the owner, undeniably sexy, Alonzo Castro.Professional athlete Alonzo Castro has had it with gold-digging women. All he wants is to meet a woman who isn’t interested in his status or bank account. Beautiful, car-wrecking, Jeanette Adams is the breath of fresh air he’s been craving. Determined to make Jeanette his, Alonzo pursues the sassy teacher despite his parents' desire for him to marry within their nationality.
As the couple’s relationship is thriving their love is tested when Alonzo doesn’t come clean about his past. When his secret is outed by a trusted friend will Jeanette be able to forgive him?
Losing The Bid
Parading in front of a room full of women is not Adrian Collins’ idea of a good time. The last thing he wants to do is fly to Chicago for a bachelor auction. But, how can he refuse to help the woman who nurtured him after his mother abandoned him when he was a toddler? Going back to the site of his deepest wounds is where he’ll meet his destiny, Daphne Turner. Adrian is disappointed when Daphne slips through his fingers after losing the bid to an old flame from his past.Reeling from the death of her uncle, Daphne accepts her best friend’s offer to attend a fundraiser in the windy city. Good cause or not, the idea of spending hard-earned money on a date is ludicrous. That is, until she locks eyes with ruggedly-handsome bachelor number twelve. Unfortunately, the night doesn't end as Daphne hoped. In the company of a sexy stranger to chase her blues away.
Fate intervenes when Adrian and Daphne’s paths intertwine. However, Adrian's past threatens to rob them of a life of happiness. Will Daphne's love be enough to heal his wounded soul?
AVAILABLE ON AMAZONA SPECIAL SUMMER | CALIENTE NIGHTS | MENDED HEARTS | LOSING THE BID | IT’S MY TURNABOUT SUZETTE RIDDICK
Suzette Riddick is a wife, mother and nurse practitioner who enjoys writing about flawed characters on a quest for love. She is an Amazon Best-Selling Author and was a featured in USA Today ~ Happy Ever After. A native of Philadelphia, PA, Suzette loves to travel, read, and is addicted to Chanel parfum.CONNECT WITH SUZETTEAUTHOR SITE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
New Release: Be My Valentine, Volume Two | #ValentineRomance #RomanceAnthology
BE MY VALENTINE, VOLUME TWO
A LOVE AFRICA PRESS COLLECTION
Life is beautiful especially when you're in love.
Dive into these hand-picked contemporary romance novellas and fall in love this Valentine's Day.
Featured stories:
The Curse of Valentine by Glory Abah
She will be loved by Zee Monodee
When Love Happens by Rosemary Okafor
Until Morning by Mukami NgariTHE CURSE OF VALENTINE by Glory AbahJane fell in love in January, to a man she glimpses every evening after work on the way home. Not bold enough to talk to him, she’s content with just staring at her daily fix from afar.Until one stupid February day when he approaches, starts a conversation and she bolts.
Because February is the worst month in the history of months. And she’s cursed. Cursed to be dumped and left broken-hearted on Valentine Day.
Can she break the curse of Valentine and keep the man she loves?
SHE WILL BE LOVED by Zee MonodeeThis Valentine’s Day, the music scene’s hottest artist, DJ Den, is set to perform his worldwide smash hit in Mauritius. Jaeden Kang—the man from Shetland behind the stage name—is looking forward to a break and some inspiration before his tour gobbles him up again.
Tanzanian medical doctor Zenobia Hashemi is visiting her brother on the island when her path crosses that of Jaeden and they’re off to a rocky start.
Neither of them ‘does’ love … but life has other plans for them during this trip!
WHEN LOVE HAPPENS by Rosemary OkaforMorgan is ruthless and plays dirty to protect his billion-dollar conglomerate. However, he holds a dark secret that could destroy him if exposed. His relationships with women are about pleasure alone until one weekend with the beautiful Eno leaves him ready to risk everything for her.
Eno was a young journalist when she witnessed Morgan murder his wife. Six years later, she’s ready to do anything to make him pay for his crime. Until she falls for his charms. Now she’s torn between destroying the proud billionaire and allowing herself to fall in-love with him.
UNTIL MORNING by Mukami NgariFollowing a devastating relationship breakup, Zawadi is out on a girls’ night out with friends when she meets a sexy stranger with a deep soulful voice created for baby-making music, the handsome face and hot body of a potential cult leader and who rides a motorbike like a speed demon. He becomes her first one-night stand.
Soon she discovers the sexy stranger is her new investor, Gerald. Things deteriorate when he pretends he’s never met her and then she discovers his unfathomable secret.Will love win this Valentine season?
AVAILABLE ONAMAZON (US) | AMAZON (UK) | SMASHWORDS | OKADABOOKS | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE | KOBO
ADD ON GOODREADSABOUT THE AUTHORSGLORY ABAHGlory Abah is a die-hard romantic whose head has always been in the clouds. She started reading books from a very young age and finally, decided to pen down the love stories she fantasizes about. She lives in Nigeria and loves to hear from her readers.
You can reach her at (cue social media handles and email address)
Join her mail list to have first access to free stories, book releases, discounts and many more exciting offers, including a FREE book. Click the link ( http://eepurl.com/dnpV-r)
ZEE MONODEEOf Indian heritage & a 2x breast cancer survivor, Zee lives in paradise (aka Mauritius!) with her long-suffering husband, their smart-mouth teenage son, and their tabby cat who thinks herself a fearsome feline from the nearby African Serengeti plains. When she isn’t in her kitchen rolling out chapattis or baking cakes while singing along to the latest pop hit topping the charts, she can be found reading or catching up on her numerous TV show addictions. In her day job, she is an editor who helps other authors like her hone their works and craft.AUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM
ROSEMARY OKAFORBorn in Nigeria in 1987, Rosemary Okafor graduated from Rivers State University and has since been employed as a broadcaster, news writer, radio script writer, stage play writer and a shop keeper. She writes short romance and other genres on social media for her followers. This would be her first official published prose. When she is not writing, she is busy as an online marketer, a wife and a mother.FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
MUKAMI NGARIMukami Ngari is from Nairobi, Kenya. She is the author of the critically acclaimed novel, Pharaoh’s Bed. She enjoys telling sweet passionate romance and women fiction stories set in Africa. When she is not writing or reading, she enjoys practicing yoga and watching supernatural T. V shows. Follow her on her social media account to connect with her and to find out about new releases. FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
A LOVE AFRICA PRESS COLLECTION
Life is beautiful especially when you're in love.Dive into these hand-picked contemporary romance novellas and fall in love this Valentine's Day.
Featured stories:
The Curse of Valentine by Glory Abah
She will be loved by Zee Monodee
When Love Happens by Rosemary Okafor
Until Morning by Mukami NgariTHE CURSE OF VALENTINE by Glory AbahJane fell in love in January, to a man she glimpses every evening after work on the way home. Not bold enough to talk to him, she’s content with just staring at her daily fix from afar.Until one stupid February day when he approaches, starts a conversation and she bolts.
Because February is the worst month in the history of months. And she’s cursed. Cursed to be dumped and left broken-hearted on Valentine Day.
Can she break the curse of Valentine and keep the man she loves?
SHE WILL BE LOVED by Zee MonodeeThis Valentine’s Day, the music scene’s hottest artist, DJ Den, is set to perform his worldwide smash hit in Mauritius. Jaeden Kang—the man from Shetland behind the stage name—is looking forward to a break and some inspiration before his tour gobbles him up again.
Tanzanian medical doctor Zenobia Hashemi is visiting her brother on the island when her path crosses that of Jaeden and they’re off to a rocky start.
Neither of them ‘does’ love … but life has other plans for them during this trip!
WHEN LOVE HAPPENS by Rosemary OkaforMorgan is ruthless and plays dirty to protect his billion-dollar conglomerate. However, he holds a dark secret that could destroy him if exposed. His relationships with women are about pleasure alone until one weekend with the beautiful Eno leaves him ready to risk everything for her.
Eno was a young journalist when she witnessed Morgan murder his wife. Six years later, she’s ready to do anything to make him pay for his crime. Until she falls for his charms. Now she’s torn between destroying the proud billionaire and allowing herself to fall in-love with him.
UNTIL MORNING by Mukami NgariFollowing a devastating relationship breakup, Zawadi is out on a girls’ night out with friends when she meets a sexy stranger with a deep soulful voice created for baby-making music, the handsome face and hot body of a potential cult leader and who rides a motorbike like a speed demon. He becomes her first one-night stand.
Soon she discovers the sexy stranger is her new investor, Gerald. Things deteriorate when he pretends he’s never met her and then she discovers his unfathomable secret.Will love win this Valentine season?
AVAILABLE ONAMAZON (US) | AMAZON (UK) | SMASHWORDS | OKADABOOKS | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE | KOBO
ADD ON GOODREADSABOUT THE AUTHORSGLORY ABAHGlory Abah is a die-hard romantic whose head has always been in the clouds. She started reading books from a very young age and finally, decided to pen down the love stories she fantasizes about. She lives in Nigeria and loves to hear from her readers.
You can reach her at (cue social media handles and email address)
Join her mail list to have first access to free stories, book releases, discounts and many more exciting offers, including a FREE book. Click the link ( http://eepurl.com/dnpV-r)
ZEE MONODEEOf Indian heritage & a 2x breast cancer survivor, Zee lives in paradise (aka Mauritius!) with her long-suffering husband, their smart-mouth teenage son, and their tabby cat who thinks herself a fearsome feline from the nearby African Serengeti plains. When she isn’t in her kitchen rolling out chapattis or baking cakes while singing along to the latest pop hit topping the charts, she can be found reading or catching up on her numerous TV show addictions. In her day job, she is an editor who helps other authors like her hone their works and craft.AUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM
ROSEMARY OKAFORBorn in Nigeria in 1987, Rosemary Okafor graduated from Rivers State University and has since been employed as a broadcaster, news writer, radio script writer, stage play writer and a shop keeper. She writes short romance and other genres on social media for her followers. This would be her first official published prose. When she is not writing, she is busy as an online marketer, a wife and a mother.FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
MUKAMI NGARIMukami Ngari is from Nairobi, Kenya. She is the author of the critically acclaimed novel, Pharaoh’s Bed. She enjoys telling sweet passionate romance and women fiction stories set in Africa. When she is not writing or reading, she enjoys practicing yoga and watching supernatural T. V shows. Follow her on her social media account to connect with her and to find out about new releases. FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
February 11, 2020
New Release: Most Eligible Bachelor is here | #BillionaireRomance #ValentineRomance
MOST ELIGIBLE BACHELOR BY EMPI BARYEH
Can their one-night stand turn into something more?
Magazine columnist Chantelle Sah doesn’t celebrate Valentine’s Day—not since her fiancé’s betrayal three years ago. After botching her first assignment as a feature writer, she’s more than willing to put in a hard day’s work this Valentine’s Day; even if it means going on a date with gorgeous construction Tycoon, Lord McKenzie, and opening herself to an onslaught of all things love.
When Lord—his given name, not a title—sets his sights on Chantelle, it isn’t just work he has on his mind. But even he couldn’t have predicted the magnetic attraction between them when they meet, nor the evening ending with more than an interview. Now he has to convince Chantelle that their one-night stand wasn’t a mistake.
AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | OKADABOOKS | ADDITIONAL RETAILERS
ADD ON GOODREADSEXCERPT
Her interest in writing started around the age of thirteen after she stumbled upon a YA story her sister had started and abandoned. The story fascinated her so much that, when she discovered it was unfinished, she set out to complete it. Somehow the rest of the story began to take shape in her mind and she's been writing ever since.
She lives in Accra, Ghana, with her husband and their two lovely kids.CONNECT WITH EMPIAUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
Can their one-night stand turn into something more?
Magazine columnist Chantelle Sah doesn’t celebrate Valentine’s Day—not since her fiancé’s betrayal three years ago. After botching her first assignment as a feature writer, she’s more than willing to put in a hard day’s work this Valentine’s Day; even if it means going on a date with gorgeous construction Tycoon, Lord McKenzie, and opening herself to an onslaught of all things love.When Lord—his given name, not a title—sets his sights on Chantelle, it isn’t just work he has on his mind. But even he couldn’t have predicted the magnetic attraction between them when they meet, nor the evening ending with more than an interview. Now he has to convince Chantelle that their one-night stand wasn’t a mistake.
AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | OKADABOOKS | ADDITIONAL RETAILERS
ADD ON GOODREADSEXCERPT
The kiss intensified, the urgency of their unified desires racing through them. His hands swept down her body to cup her butt. Instinctively, she curved her arms around his nape rendering support as he lifted her, bringing her feminine mound up to meet the thick length of his arousal. She moaned, shivered. The mermaid cut of her evening gown halted her attempt to wrap her legs around his waist. With a whimper of frustration, she pulled back.
“Stupid dress,” she mumbled.
The sound of his deep chuckle did nothing to lessen the sexual energy gripping them.
“If we were dancing right now, would you let me lead you through a death drop?” he asked, still holding her against his arousal and not releasing her from his gaze. “Without hesitation?”
She quirked her brows, but his earnest expression made her realise his question wasn’t about an obsession with the dance move. He wanted to know if she trusted him.
“Yes,” she answered.
“Do you believe I won’t let anything happen tonight that you’re not ready for?”
She nodded.
He eased her back to her feet. “Lift up your dress.”ENTER TO WIN$25 Amazon Gift CardCLICK HEREa Rafflecopter giveaway ABOUT EMPI BARYEHEmpi Baryeh is the award-winning author of Most Eligible Bachelor (Book of the year, 2017 Ufere Awards). She works fulltime as a university administrator and spend her spare time writing sweet and sensual African, multicultural and interracial romance, and women's fiction.
Her interest in writing started around the age of thirteen after she stumbled upon a YA story her sister had started and abandoned. The story fascinated her so much that, when she discovered it was unfinished, she set out to complete it. Somehow the rest of the story began to take shape in her mind and she's been writing ever since.
She lives in Accra, Ghana, with her husband and their two lovely kids.CONNECT WITH EMPIAUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | PINTEREST | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
February 7, 2020
SPOTLIGHT: Sweet Briar Sweethearts series by Kathy Douglass
HOW TO STEAL THE LAWMAN'S HEART
Forgiveness starts with a stolen kiss…
Chief of police Trent Knight had it all until an accident took his wife and he was left alone to raise two beautiful girls. Now the person he always blamed for his loss is back in town, and all bets are off. But soon his anger toward Carmen Shields gives way to a very different emotion — awareness of Carmen as a woman. On one hand, it feels like a betrayal of his late wife’s memory. On the other, it could be his second chance at life — and Carmen’s shot at redemption. Maybe she can go home again — with the help of a certain lawman.AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARLEQUIN | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE
THE WAITRESS’S SECRET
Today’s Special: The Undercover Heiress!
On the run after a bad breakup, wealthy city girl Arden Wexford ends up stranded in small town Sweet Briar. When hunky chef Brandon Danielson comes to her rescue, offering shelter and a waitressing job until her car is fixed, she reluctantly accepts. But, wanting Brandon to like her for her, not for her money, she doesn’t mention her rich roots. The closer they get, the harder it is to untell the lie.
Brandon came here to start over. Things were’t as they seemed with his ex-fiancee, and he got burned! But is it out of the frying pan, into the fire for Brandon as things heat up with a very special waitress?AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE | HARLEQUIN | KOBO | GOOGLE
THE RANCHER AND THE CITY GIRL
From sworn enemies to soul mates? Wall Street hotshot Camille Parker is the last person rancher Jericho Jones expects to find on his doorstep. Ever since his late wife’s best friend interfered in his marriage, she’s persona non grata in Jericho’s book. But the situation is literally life-and-death for this damsel in distress, and he opens his home to her. The problem is, he opens his heart, too.
Camille has no choice but to seek help from her worst enemy. And as she lets her guard down in close quarters, unexpected feelings surge for him. But what will happen if Camille’s life goes back to normal and the city girl no longer needs to shelter in the reticent rancher’s arms?AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARLEQUIN | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE
WINNING CHARLOTTE BACK
When the man who left her at the altar moves in next door…
This could not be happening. Charlotte Shields had left both that heartbreaking day and this heartbreaking man behind. But here he is. Even worse, their mutual attraction is back to betray her. Especially as Dr. Rick Tyler works hard to make amends. He’s got to make this move to Sweet Briar work to give his son a second chance. Will he get a second chance with Charlotte in the bargain?AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARLEQUIN | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE
THE RANCHER’S RETURN
“That’s all you have to say? You’re back now?”
Ten years ago, the love of Raven Reynolds’s life disappeared without a trace. Now Donovan Cordero is back, standing on her doorstep. Along the way, Raven had the rancher’s child—though he didn’t know she was pregnant! Now her prayers have been answered, but happily-ever-after feels further away than ever. Because how can she rebuild a life with her child’s father if she’s engaged to another man?AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARLEQUIN | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE
A BABY BETWEEN FRIENDS
They pretended to be lovers.
But there’s nothing make-believe about the baby on the way.
When Joni Danielson recruits her best friend, Sweet Briar mayor Lex Devlin, to be her fake boyfriend for a wedding, it’s a no-brainer. But their staged kisses lead to real passion—and heartbreak when Lex pulls away. Now Joni’s in a bigger bind: she’s pregnant. Can she and Lex once again fake it till they make it—to a real relationship?AVAILABLE ONAMAZON | BARNES & NOBLE | HARLEQUIN | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLEABOUT KATHY DOUGLASS
Kathy is a born reader who as a child always had her nose in a book. That love of reading grew with her. She often would finish one book and immediately pick up another. She went from reading Bobbsey Twins to long, lush romance novels. One day she stumbled upon the Shining by Stephen King and was hooked. She turned her back on romance and became a serious Stephen King fan, reading every word he wrote. When she caught herself checking under the bed and looking in the closet for monsters or worse, she knew it was time to put down the horror stories and pick up the romance novels.Her return to romance novels was short lived. She'd started law school and soon her reading was limited to legal opinions. Then one happy day her younger sister handed her a Harlequin romance. They were just what the doctor ordered. The books were short enough to read in a week and still get her required reading done. Best of all she knew there would be a happy ending and she wouldn't have to search her room before she went to bed each night.
When her first child was born, she stopped practicing law to become a stay at home mom. Her second child followed nineteen months later. With two little ones in the house, reading suddenly became limited to Dr. Seuss and other children's books. Any free time was spent trying to catch up on sleep or laundry.
All too soon her kids were attending pre-school two hours a day. She spent those few precious renewing her relationship with romance novels. After a while she felt the urge to write a book of her own and she began writing the stories she wanted to read. She spent many years writing some really terrible books and learning her craft. In 2016, Kathy sold to Harlequin. Her first book, How to Steal the Lawman's Heart, was released in February, 2017. Several others soon followed with more to come.CONNECT WITH KATHY DOUGLASSAUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
January 30, 2020
January 15, 2020
New Release: Love and HipLife by Nana Prah | #LoveandHipLife #NanaPrah #HonMagPR
LOVE AND HIPLIFE BY NANA PRAH
Lamisi Imoro will do anything to complete her PhD before the extension is up. It doesn’t matter who dies, leaves her high and dry, or hates her guts, she’s on fire. But, her supervisor wants to prove just how much he’d love to see her fail by throwing obstacles to thwart her from reaching her goal. Desperate for help and nowhere else to turn, she’s forced to ask for the assistance of the hiplife artist who once saved her from a nasty fall. She finds that their scorching attraction is a problem and is determined to tamp her rising emotions because nothing will stop her from getting what she set out to accomplish.Blaise Ayoma is on the verge of taking African Francophone countries by storm with his new style of music. Learning how to sing in French without butchering the beautiful language is harder than he thought. Multi-linguist, Lamisi is the key to his success. When his presence in her life puts her in danger, will he end the budding relationship in order to keep her safe?
AVAILABLE ONAMAZON US | AMAZON UK | OKADABOOKS | BARNES & NOBLE | APPLE | KOBO | SMASHWORDS
ADD ON GOODREADSABOUT NANA PRAH
Nana Prah first discovered romance in a book from her eighth-grade summer reading list and has been obsessed with it ever since. Her fascination with love inspired her to write in her favorite genre where happily-ever-after is the rule. She is a published author of contemporary, multicultural romances. Her books are sweet with a touch of spice. When she’s not writing she’s reading, over-indulging in chocolate, and enjoying life with friends and family.CONNECT WITH NANAAUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | NEWSLETTER | GOODREADS | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE
