Karen Docter's Blog, page 195

Karen’s Killer Book Bench “Top Ten List”: Why The Earl is After The Girl (Ways of Love, Book 1) by Tabetha Waite

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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WHY THE EARL IS AFTER THE GIRL

Ways of Love, Book 1

By TABETHA WAITE

Blurb

Sometimes love finds a way…

Miss Athena Hawthorne certainly hadn’t been looking for romance on that rainy day in London when her very existence crumbled before her. When she feels that life couldn’t get any worse, she stumbles into the very man that has the power to turn her unfortunate circumstances around.


When you least expect it… 


Orion Ashcroft, the Earl of Rockford, offers Athena the chance to gain her vengeance by granting her a respectable position as a governess. What she doesn’t know is that he is plotting his own revenge against her. He believes that she is responsible for the theft of a priceless, family heirloom and he is determined to see it restored – no matter the cost.

WHY THE EARL IS AFTER THE GIRL

Ways of Love, Book 1

By TABETHA WAITE

~ Top Ten Historical Romance Reads ~

1) “Midnight Bride” by Kathleen Drymon

2) “ A Rose in Winter” by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss

3) “Dream Castle” by Andrea Kane

4) “Romancing the Duke” by Tessa Dare

5) “The Charm School” by Susan Wiggs

6) “Seduced” by Pamela Britton

7) “Noble Intentions” by Katie MacAlister

8) “My Only Love” by Katherine Sutcliffe

9) “The Abduction of Julia” by Karen Hawkins

10) “The Courtship Dance” by Candace Camp

Of course I have many favorite authors like Sabrina Jeffries, Victoria Alexander, Elizabeth Boyle, Sarah MacLean, Julianne MacLean and Sophie Jordan to name but a few!

Meet Author Tabetha Waite. ..

Tabetha grew up in a small town with big dreams of seeing her name in print ever since her fourth grade teacher said she liked reading her stories. Starting out putting pen to paper before graduating to an antique typewriter, she used to sit at the kitchen table and invent all manner of stories from fantasy to mystery. It wasn’t until Tabetha was in high school did her grandmother mention reading the old Gothics of the sixties, along with the more modern Harlequins.

Once she opened these pages, Tabetha decided that romance was the genre for her. Combining her love of history, she started writing novels set in the American Civil War time period, but after learning of the Bronte sisters and Jane Austen, she fell in love with the beauty of England. “Why the Earl is After the Girl” is her debut novel and a dream come true. She is already busy writing the next book in her “Ways of Love” series, though she always makes time to respond to readers! 

Tabetha lives in the Midwest with her husband and two daughters, and when she’s not writing, she’s working part time at the local community college as a lunch lady.

~~~

Links to Tabetha’s website, blog, books, etc.

Goodreads: 

https://www.goodreads.com/ book/show/31123966-why-the- earl-is-after-the-girl

Etopia Press:

http://www.etopiapress.com/ why-the-earl-is-after-the- girl/


Amazon:

http://amzn.to/2i9eKKh

Barnes & Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/ w/why-the-earl-is-after-the- girl-tabetha-waite/1124098192? ean=2940156883134


Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/ en-us/ebook/why-the-earl-is- after-the-girl


Google Books:

https://books.google.com.ph/ books?id=OkKrDAAAQBAJ&dq=why+ the+earl+is+after+the+girl


Apple iBooks:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/ book/why-the-earl-is-after- the-girl/id1134400038?mt=11



Website:

http://authortabethawaite. wixsite.com/romance


Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ TotallyTabetha/


Twitter:

http://www.twitter.com/ TotallyTabetha


Instagram:

http://www.instagram.com/ tabethawaite


LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ tabetha-waite-743290126


Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/ tabethaw


Manic Readers:

http://www.manicreaders.com/ TabethaWaite/


The Romance Reviews:

http://www.theromancereviews. com/interview.php?location= 22700


Serious Reading:

http://seriousreading.com/ author-interviews/7259- interview-with-tabetha-waite- author-of-why-the-earl-is- after-the-girl.html

~~~

Thanks, Tabetha, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Giveaway Date: January 9 – 20, 2017

Prize:

1 winner – $20 Amazon Gift Card + FREE eBook copy of Why The Earl Is After The Girl

Contest Link:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/ rafl/display/efa91ca02/?

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Unexpected Love by Selena Rivera

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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UNEXPECTED LOVE

By SELENA RIVERA

Blurb

When Kaylee decided to look for her natural mother, little did she know she was also going to find the love of her life, her soul mate, in the most unique and unusual place. It could not have been predicted. It was the beginning of an emotional storm that will rock her world. Will the past come back and haunt her, a past she didn’t know existed? Will this new life and love be at stake? Will she lose the man of her dreams?

UNEXPECTED LOVE

By SELENA RIVERA

Excerpt

I take the letter out of its envelope and start reading it out loud:

“My Dear Kaylee,

So many years have passed by without having you in my life. There isn’t one day that I don’t regret the day I gave you up for adoption. You see, your father’s family is very wealthy, and they started threatening me when they found out I was pregnant. I felt like I didn’t have a choice. Your dad’s name was Adriano Pacino. He was Italian and in the Mafia. I didn’t know it at the time. Your father and I fell madly in love with each-other; we were so young. Then one day, when I told your father I was pregnant, the threats from your grandfather started. I had to make sure nothing was going to happen to you. I gave you up for adoption for your own safety.  During my pregnancy your dad and I saw each-other secretly until one day your dad didn’t show up and I knew it was too late. The day you were born, your dad’s sister came and see me and told me that your dad had died. I was crushed because I had lost your father, I loved him so much and then I had to give you up too. I hope this letter will get to you safe and sound. If you are reading this letter, it’s because I’m no longer with you. I want you to know the day that the adoption agency called me to tell me that my daughter was looking for me was the best day of my life. Any time we could spend together would be tremendously wonderful. I love you and always have my daughter. I hope you can find forgiveness and understanding in your heart for all those years that I wasn’t there for you when you needed me the most. The medallion that you will find in this letter belonged to your father. It has both our initials and your name wrapped in a heart. The minute we found out you were going to be a girl we knew we wanted to name you Kaylee.

Your father gave it to me for you.

I love you my sweetheart and always will, forever.

You’re loving mother,

Kate”

Meet Author Selena Rivera. ..

Selena Rivera lives in Montreal, Quebec, Canada . A self-proclaimed “Country Girl” at heart, she loves country music. She also likes to sing and dance and has an interest in astronomy. By day, she is a busy secretary since 16. Her life struggles have pushed her to fight for her dreams. She’s an artistic person and has been writing since the age of 12. Above all she wants to share her world with everybody.

~~~

Links to Selena’s website, blog, books, etc.

FB PAGE : www.facebook.com/selenarebeccaauthor
Twitter : www.twitter.com/selenarivera89
Instagram: authorselenarivera

Purchase links(currently on sale worldwide for 99 cents):

US: https://www.amazon.com/Unexpected-Love-Selena-Rivera-ebook/dp/B0198KJA94
UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unexpected-Love-Selena-Rivera-ebook/dp/B0198KJA94

~~~

Thanks, Selena, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Sweet Southern Hearts (Willow Hill #3) by Susan Schild

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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SWEET SOUTHERN HEARTS

Willow Hill #3

By SUSAN SCHILD

Blurb

Susan Schild welcomes you back to the offbeat Southern town of Willow Hill, North Carolina, for a humorous, heartwarming story of new beginnings, do-overs, and self-discovery…  

When it comes to marriage, third time’s the charm for Linny Taylor. She’s thrilled to be on her honeymoon with Jack Avery, Willow Hill’s handsome veterinarian. But just like the hair-raising white water rafting trip Jack persuades her to take, newlywed life has plenty of dips and bumps.

Jack’s twelve-year-old son is resisting all Linny’s efforts to be the perfect stepmother, while her own mother, Dottie, begs her to tag along on the first week of a free-wheeling RV adventure. Who knew women “of a certain age” could drum up so much trouble? No sooner is Linny sighing with relief at being back home than she’s helping her frazzled sister with a new baby…and dealing with an unexpected legacy from her late ex. Life is fuller—and richer—than she ever imagined, but if there’s one thing Linny’s learned by now, it’s that there’s always room for another sweet surprise…

“This charming and well observed novel about finding the courage to love after loss will make you smile as well as cry more than a few happy tears.  Be prepared for a story of true tenderness, humor, and sometimes nail biting tension. Sweet Southern Hearts delivers all this and more.” –Holly Chamberlin, author of Summer with my Sisters

SWEET SOUTHERN HEARTS

Willow Hill #3

By SUSAN SCHILD

Excerpt

Linny’s heartbeat galloped under her life jacket as they shot down the rapids of the Ocasoula River. Eyes wide, she watched as their orange raft careened toward a jagged boulder, bumped it hard, and spun them toward a patch of choppy water. As the water rushed around the three of them—Linny, her new husband Jack, and their beautiful, Ms. Outward Bound–type goddess of a river guide—they dug deep and paddled hard, straining to pull through the eddy. With a whoosh, they were pulled backward down the roaring, foaming river. Linny shot Jack a panicky glance, but he was grinning exultantly and looking like he was having the time of his life. With the flick of a braid and a pirate’s smile, the guide thrust her paddle into the rapids, turned the raft around, and steered them downstream toward calmer water. Too soon to relax, though. Linny saw more rough waters ahead and tensed.

Be a shame to lose a third husband, she thought crazily and paddled harder.

The nimble-footed photographer from the outdoor center jogged along a path on the riverbank, snapping away as their raft rocketed toward the Turbinator, the Class III rapid that roiled ahead in the home stretch of the river trip. The photographer’s ponytail bounced as he raced ahead of them, taking shots as their raft bucked, dove, and finally glided through the rain-swollen Ocasoula.

Soon, a shivering Linny stood at the takeout, hugging herself and rubbing her arms. She’d been splashed thoroughly and didn’t want to think about how cold the water would have been if they’d flipped over. Though it was late June, the guide told them the water temperature was only in the midfifties. Linny found herself grinning like a fool as she waited for Jack to come back from the truck with his wallet to pay for their pictures. She’d been terrified, but she’d had a blast.

A white water rafting trip might not be high on most women’s lists of a must-do on a honeymoon, but when Linny had seen how Jack’s eyes sparkled as he reminisced about a rafting trip he’d taken when he was in his twenties, she’d said, “Let’s do it!” in an enthusiastic, practically perky voice she’d hardly recognized. In this new and complicated marriage, being a good sport and flexible as Gumby were going to ease the way. Though rafting wasn’t her thing, Jack had cheerfully gone on the vineyard tour with her yesterday and, on the drive up to the mountains, had tagged along, not looking bored, as she’d poked through vintage aprons and yellow Nancy Drew books at an antique store.

“Here you go, ma’am.” The young man held out his camera and scratched one mesh- sandaled foot with the other as he watched her view the shots he’d taken.

In perfect clarity, the fellow had caught them at the moment she and Jack got sling-shot skyward in their raft after diving down into the roiling water of that last rapid. Linny peered more closely at the picture. The photographer had captured the Carolina blue sky day, the Day-Glo orange of the raft, the lithe young goddess at the helm, and her and Jack—the glowing, sun-drenched newlyweds. Twice coming down that river they’d almost flipped and been swept into the churning waters. Linny’s teeth had chattered and she’d buzzed with adrenaline and fear, but she looked alive and exhilarated as she beamed at Jack, pure joy in her eyes. With powerful arms, he was digging away with his paddle, helping power them through. But Linny spotted two details that made her eyes well up: Jacks’ new gold band glinting in the sunlight and the look he’d given her just as the photographer had taken the shot was one of wonder and delight. He looked like he was thinking, How did I get this lucky?

“You did a great job.” Linny smiled at the young photographer.

“Thanks.” The young man blushed and pulled down the brim of his cap. He pointed to the visitors’ center. “Just give me a minute to load the pictures and you can pick the ones you want.”

“Thanks. We’ll be over as soon as my husband gets back,” she said.

He raised a hand and loped off.

Linny loved saying my husband. She’d probably said it too many times over the three days of this honeymoon. My husband and I are from Willow Hill. My husband is a veterinarian. My husband likes unsweetened tea. Linny smiled at herself. Yup, she was being obnoxious, but she didn’t care. She was so dang happy that she couldn’t stop. Well, at least for a while.

At age thirty-nine and with her streak of bad luck with husbands, the odds of her and Jack finding each other and falling in love weren’t great. Linny sent up a quick prayer of pure gratefulness. After her beloved first husband, Andy, had died of a brown recluse spider bite while cleaning out a shed for Linny—an item on the too-long honey-do lists she always kept for him—she’d been lost for so many years and thought she’d never be happy again. Then Buck the charmer came along. She should have known a golden boy driving a vintage Caddy wouldn’t be good husband material, but she’d married him anyway. He’d turned out to be trouble, but just as she was considering divorcing him, he’d up and died on her. When his aneurism blew while he was in bed with a woman named Kandi, he’d left her broke.

Linny had sworn she’d steer clear of men or die trying, and then she’d met Jack. Technically, she’d accidentally hit him in the head with a bourbon bottle while recycling at the dump. She smiled and shook her head, remembering. Most women would pretty up that how-we-met story, but Linny told people the unvarnished version. Maybe she just wanted to spread the word that second chances, fresh starts, and true love were all still possible, even at her ages. The happily ever after you yearn for just might not look the way you thought it would.

So, a few days ago in a backyard ceremony, Linny had married Jack. A small-town vet with a twelve-year-old son and an exquisite ex-wife who was just a little too chummy with him for Linny’s taste, Jack came with complications. But so had she. And today she was buoyant and happy.

Meet Author Susan Schild. ..

Susan Schild writes wholesome and sunny Southern fiction. She likes stories about charming men, missing money, adventuresome women, sweet dogs, and happily ever afters at any age.

Susan is a wife and a stepmother. She enjoys rummaging through thrift store for treasures like four dollar cashmere sweaters and amateur watercolor paintings. She likes taking walks with her Lab mix, Tucker, and his buddies. She and her family live in North Carolina.

Susan has used her professional background as a psychotherapist and a management consultant to add authenticity to her characters.

SWEET SOUTHERN HEARTS, the final book in the Willow Hill series, will be released in January of 2017. Readers can look forward to more adventures, new beaus, sinister ministers, lovebirds over fifty, a road trip for Mama and her pals, and maybe even an “I Do”…or two.

You can follow Susan on Facebook, Twitter and on her website or subscribe to her quarterly newsletter for inside scoop, sneak peeks and giveaways.

~~~

Links to Susan’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow Tour:

http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/10/28/sweet-southern-hearts-willow-hill-3-by-susan-schil d

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31817909-sweet-southern-hearts  

Buy Links:     Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo

Author Links:   Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

~~~

Thanks, Susan, for sharing your book with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Karen’s Killer Book Bench DOUBLE **Release Blast**: Properly Groomed (Wedding Favors #3) by Boone Brux & Dear Jane (Animal Attraction #1) by Marissa Clarke

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

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PROPERLY GROOMED

Wedding Favors #3

By BOONE BRUX

Blurb

Playing house just got real…

When Joya Bennett wakes up after her brother’s wedding, half-naked and lying next to her lifelong crush, she’s mortified. OMG, did she try to jump his bones? Worse, did she succeed? Intending to lay low and housesit for her brother until the embarrassment fades, she sneaks away before he wakes up.

What she didn’t plan on is having company.

Lincoln Fisher doesn’t do relationships, but if he did, his friend’s little sister would be the one to tie him down. Good thing Joya had one too many drinks during the reception or he’d have crossed a line. Her brother would kill him if he found out all the places Linc wanted to kiss the sexy, auburn-haired beauty.

And now they’re stuck in the same house. For two weeks.

She’s off-limits. And he needs to keep it that way, even if the heat building between them is hot enough to blow off the roof…

Each book in the Wedding Favors series is a stand-alone, full-length story that can be enjoyed out of order.



Book #1 Bridesmaid Blues

Book #2 Random Acts of Marriage

Book #3 Properly Groomed

PROPERLY GROOMED

Wedding Favors #3

By BOONE BRUX

Excerpt

“Are you sure there isn’t somewhere else you can stay?” She paused, then added, “For everybody’s sake.”

He pivoted to face her, a lazy grin curling his mouth. “Is this about last night?”

“No.” It was totally about last night and whether she should be embarrassed or relieved. “Why would you think this was about last night? Nothing happened…right?”

“You don’t remember?”

Mortified, she shook her head.

He closed the distance between them to a couple of inches and stroked his finger along her jaw. “Now that’s a shame.”

All the saliva in her mouth dried up and her breath hovered in her throat as his azure gaze caressed her face. He smelled like an autumn harvest and minty toothpaste, with a dash of cinnamon thrown into the mix. If lust had a smell, it would be Lincoln.

Before she could reply, he turned toward the front door and walked inside, Chester trotting alongside him. Damn it, he’d breached her barricade with no more than a steamy look.

Meet Author Boone Brux. ..

Amazon Best Selling Author Boone Brux’s stories range from high fantasy to humorous paranormal.

Having lived all over the world, and finally settling in the icy region of Alaska, she’s always looking for the next adventure. It’s not unusual to find Boone traversing the remotest parts of the Alaskan bush, gathering information for her stories. No person or escapade is off limits when it comes to weaving real life experiences into her books or blogs.

Join Boone’s V.I.P. Club and be first to hear about new releases, events, free read, contests and giveaways, and so much more. Sign up for her newsletter and stay informed.

~~~

Links to Boone’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow:

http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/12/10/properly-groomed-by-boone-brux-dear-jane-by-marissa-clarke

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33519967-properly-groomed?from_search=true

 Buy Links:   AMAZON | B & N | ITUNES | KOBO

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

~~

DEAR JANE

Animal Attraction #1

By MARISSA CLARKE

Blurb

Jane Dixon is a dating disaster. Flammable tablecloths and broken arms are just a typical evening for her unlucky companions. No wonder Jane never gets past a first date. But luckily her co-worker and new bff says he’s got loads of friends who’d date her more than once. If only she could stop thinking about how much fun he was to hang out with. And she’d never dropped a bucket of ice on his junk. Win.

All attorney Eric Blackwell has to do to make junior partner is not screw anything up for six weeks, which seems like a slam dunk until he finds himself matchmaker to the office “One Date Wonder” aka the boss’s daughter. It’s hard to stay focused when setting up the hottest girl he’s ever met with everyone but himself. Maybe he could just set her up with all the wrong men, and keep his hands off his new friend… Yeah. His promotion is toast.

DEAR JANE

Animal Attraction #1

By MARISSA CLARKE

Excerpt

After dropping off his briefcase in his office, Eric made his way to the end of the hallway and knocked on Jane’s door, flowers in hand.

He felt ridiculous. Sort of like he had before his prom in high school, only Jane wasn’t going to dance with him and the flowers were from someone else. Still, this was a chance to actually speak to her and that was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. He was about to make her day with a clearly expensive bouquet of flowers from another man. His chest tightened. So did his grip on the vase. He was beginning to think pathetic wasn’t a strong enough descriptor.

“Come in,” she called.

When he opened the door, she didn’t look up from her computer screen, clearly engrossed in whatever she was reading. Brow furrowed, she tapped the end of a pen on the side of her monitor. Holy shit, she was beautiful—intensely focused with the sun from the wall of windows making her hair shine like gold. He’d never been this close to her before and found himself a little overwhelmed, which was ridiculous. He was head of an entire team at one of the most prestigious law firms in New York City. Nothing should overwhelm him. Get it together, Blackwell.

When she finally looked up, her eyes widened and she pushed to her feet behind the huge, shiny desk. “I’m sorry. I thought you were Marcie dropping something off.”

“Well, I am… Not Marcie, but dropping something off.” Great. Just great. He groaned inwardly at how ridiculous his first words ever spoken to this woman were.

Her large blue eyes flitted from his face to the flowers and back again.

“These are for you,” he said, awkwardly holding them out.

“Oh…um…” She circled her desk, moving closer. “Wow. Thanks.”

“I’m Eric Blackwell.” He cleared his throat. “From Mergers and Acquisitions.”

She smiled, flashing straight, white teeth. “Yeah, I know.”

She knew? His heart hammered harder, which seemed impossible. He cleared his throat again. “Marcie was swamped and asked me to deliver these for her.”

“Oh…” She glanced at the flowers, her smile fading slightly.

“Yeah, she had a bunch of stuff come in at once, and I was already heading this way, so…”

She nodded. “That was nice of you. Thanks.” With her hair pulled into a knot on the back of her head, her eyes looked huge.

Eric placed the vase on her desk, taking a deep breath. Shit. She even smelled good. Maybe it was the flowers. “These are nice. You must have an admirer.” And his morbid curiosity wanted to know who it was so he could direct his irrational jealousy appropriately. He pulled the envelope from the arrangement and handed it to her, hoping not only to extend his time this close to her but also get some intel.

He gritted his teeth as she pulled out the card. This level of interest was incontestable proof that he was working way too hard and playing way too little. Since his break up with Shannon almost a year ago, he’d done nothing but work. No wonder being this close to a woman was the highlight of his day. He had to fix this. Quick.

No. He needed to hold tight until after he made junior partner. That had been his goal from the start. It was important he get that promotion. The money would be nice, but really, it was all about the security, something he never had growing up.

Jane’s face clouded as she studied the card. “Who does this kind of thing? What kind of…” She waved a hand in an exasperated motion. “What kind of jerk uses a romantic gesture as a way to deliver a message like this. Really?”

And here he’d thought dropping off the flowers would associate him with something positive in her mind. Today sucked.

“I thought I’d gotten a date right for once, you know what I mean?”

Nope. Not a clue. How could a woman like this—obviously smart since she worked at one of the premier law firms in NYC, and gorgeous on top of that—get anything wrong on a date? Eric had an overwhelming urge to hunt down and beat the shit out of the prick who sent those flowers.

When she turned, her eyes brimmed with tears. Not the stream down your face kind, but controlled and held in. Oh God, not tears. They made him feel helpless and “holdy.” That’s what his mother had called it. His solution for tears was to hug, which he absolutely under no circumstances could do to Jane Dixon. The image of holding her soft body against his harder one, made him… well, harder. He clasped his hands behind his back to keep from taking Jane in his arms. “I’m sorry. I…”

She blinked, pushing the tears back before they could fully form. “No, I’m sorry. You were just doing something nice for Marcie. You had no idea you’d been thrown in the room with the One-date Wonder.”

“Maybe I should—” He stepped backward toward the door.

She threw her hands up. “Seriously, how I can screw it up every time? Every. Single. Time.” She paced to the edge of her desk. “Do you know that I haven’t had a second date since I graduated law school?”

His day had just gone from pathetic to surreal. All he could do was shake his head.

She paced to the potted plant in the corner and then back to her desk. “Oh yeah. Loads of first dates. Never a second. And you know what?”

Hopefully that was rhetorical, because no way in hell could he possibly guess what would come out of her mouth next.

“I’m so done. I’m never going to find a guy to ask me out twice. I should swear off men forever. Men suck. Dating sucks.” She took a shuddering breath. “I suck.” And then one of the tears she’d held back this whole time escaped—only one—as she stood perfectly still and silent.

As if on auto-pilot, he crossed to her and folded her in his arms like he’d done with his mother so many times in his life. This wasn’t anything like those hugs, though, and his body made that fact painfully clear as she circled her arms around his waist under his jacket and leaned her cheek against his chest. And it was definitely her and not the flowers that smelled good.

After a few seconds, Eric’s heart hammered so hard he was certain Jane could hear it. There wouldn’t be enough lifeboats in the world to save Operation Smooth Sailing if he continued to rub his hands up and down his boss’s daughter’s back. Reluctantly, he loosened his grip, pulled away to create some space between them, and gave her shoulder an awkward, platonic pat.

“Sorry.” She straightened his lapel and brushed it, stepping back to arm’s length. “I…” She took a deep breath. “…got a little emotional on you there.”

Eric remained frozen in place, only a couple of feet from her, completely clueless what to do or say. He needed a how-to manual for this kind of thing.

She leaned against her desk, facing him. “I’m so frustrated.”

Ditto.

“I mean, why can’t a guy just go out on a date without an agenda or strategy? And why are women held to a different standard?”

Rhetorical. Please let that be rhetorical. He tried to look somewhere else, but couldn’t draw his gaze away from her hands as she fiddled with the necklace that disappeared into her cleavage behind her silk blouse.

“If a guy spills ice water in his date’s lap, she wouldn’t hold it against him forever. She wouldn’t send him flowers with a Dear John letter attached. Am I right?”

Ice water in his lap might be just the ticket right now, Eric decided, finally pulling his gaze away from the freckle on her neck peeking out from under her silk collar. “No. Uh… I mean, yes. Yes, you’re right.” Right in so many ways it made him dizzy. Coming to her office had been a mistake. It had to be the ten months of abstinence in combination with the ridiculous hours he’d been putting in leading up to this merger, and the stress of blowing his promotion this close to his annual review that had him in this state.

“I guess I’m just scared I’ll never find a guy who’ll go out with me more than once. It’s kind of a joke in my family. My three brothers are married and I can’t even get a second date.”

“Maybe it’s just that you’re going out with the wrong guys. I know lots of men who would give anything to go out with someone like you.”

“You do?” Her eyebrows rose, her expression hopeful.

“Sure.” He could think of one in particular, but sadly there was that non-fraternization clause he’d signed when he was hired.

“Ohmygod, you’re the best, Eric!” She held out her hand. “You’re on.”

What the hell? He accepted her extended hand, and she gave it a vigorous handshake.

“I’m free on Fridays after seven.” She scribbled on a Post-It note on her desk. “Give one of your friends my number, and we’ll set up a time.”

He took the slip of paper. “O—kay.”

She smiled. It was a huge smile that lit up her entire face, like the sun coming out. “Great. You’re the best. Really, you are.”

Oh yeah. He was the best for sure. The best at mucking everything up. He finally had Jane’s phone number and now he was tasked with finding another man to give it to. Perfect.

“Oh. And I have another favor to ask.”

Maybe this could turn around.

She held up a finger and wagged it. “No lawyers. I will never date one. Ever. I’d rather stay single the rest of my life.”

Nope. No turning this disaster around.

Numb, and not exactly sure how he’d gone from up-and-coming attorney to flower delivery boy to Jane Dixon’s personal dating service, Eric shuffled out the door and down the hallway to the safety of his office. This time, he closed the door.

Meet Author Marissa Clarke. ..

Marissa Clarke is a multi-award-winning, RITA® nominated author of romance for adults and teens. She lives in Texas, where everything is bigger, especially the mosquitoes. When not writing, she wrangles her rowdy pack of three teens, husband, and a Cairn terrier named Annabel, who rules the house (and Marissa’s heart) with an iron paw.

Marissa Clarke is a pseudonym. Her real name is Mary Lindsey and she also writes young adult novels for Penguin USA.

To receive updates and insider information on Marissa’s upcoming books, subscribe to her newsletter.

~~~

Links to Marissa’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow:

http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/12/10/properly-groomed-by-boone-brux-dear-jane-by-marissa-clarke

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33298986-dear-jane

Book Trailer for DEAR JANE:

https://youtu.be/o_p1LnPsX9M

Buy Links:    AMAZON | B & N | ITUNES | KOBO

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

~~~

Thanks, Boone and Marissa, for sharing your books with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read these books!

a Rafflecopter giveaway



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations Week 12-05-16, 12-12-16, 12-26-16 & 01-02-17 Blog Giveaway Winners!

 CONGRATULATIONS WEEK

12-05-16, 12-12-16, 12-26-16 & 01-02-17

BLOG GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Leeann Betts…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Leeann is giving away a print (US Only) or ebook copy (Winner’s choice) of BROKE, BUSTED, AND DISGUSTED to one lucky reader who comments on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Thank you, Leeann, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: EILEEN ABERMAN-WELLS !

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Reana Malori & Michel Prince…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Michel is giving away an ebook copy of UNWRAPPING A MARRIAGE to one lucky reader who comments on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Thank you, Michel, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: KATHLEEN BYLSMA!

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Eileen Dreyer…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Eileen is giving away an ebook copy of PERCHANCE TO DREAM to one lucky reader who comments on her Killer Book Bench blog. Thank you, Eileen, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: LORI!

~~~



Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Eileen Dreyer…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Eileen is giving away an ebook copy of A ROSE FOR MAGGIE to one lucky reader who comments on her Killer Book Bench blog. Thank you, Eileen, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: CINDY MARLEY !

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Jennifer L. Roche ETAL…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Jennifer is giving away an ebook copy of DETOURS IN OUR DESTINATIONS to one lucky reader who comments on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Thank you, Jennifer, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: TAMMY HALL!

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Adele Hewett Veal…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Adele is giving away an ebook copy of SHADOW IN THE MIRROR to two lucky readers who comment on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Thank you, Adele, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: BN100!

~~~

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!!!

Don’t miss the SEASON OF SURVIVAL BOX SET:

3 Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Series Starters

By Bestselling Authors Kim Cresswell, K.L. Docter & Rachel Kent

*** NEW Release Price Special ***

*** ONLY $.99 ***

See what you’re getting in this collection of three full-length novels…

REFLECTION (A Whitney Steel Novel – Book One) by Kim Cresswell

Blurb: Lunch with the ex-husband is not always a fun thing especially when bullets start flying and reporter Whitney Steel finds herself in the middle of a human cloning story that will rock the world…providing she lives long enough to get her byline.

“A deeply emotional romantic suspense that starts bold and holds you captive to the very end.” –New York Times Bestseller, Dianna Love

KILLING SECRETS (A Thorne’s Thorn Novel – Book One) by K. L. Docter

Blurb: Some secrets are better left dead. Too bad the Angel Killer’s digging them up. Rachel James’ ex-husband is released from prison determined to reclaim her and her traumatized child, his key to the James fortune. Patrick Thorne isn’t interested in helping another of his parents’ charity cases, especially after losing his unborn son and wife to suicide. Only trust will untangle the secrets that dominate their lives, free a child of her silent prison, and save them both from a killer who stands too close.

“This romantic suspense is full of wonderful secrets, twists, turns and has an evil serial killing villain. The kind of killer we see on the TV show CRIMINAL MINDS.”–RT Book Reviews, Bernadette Cychner

BROKEN PIECES (Bits & Pieces – Book One) by Rachel Kent

Tara Jacobs had her life completely planned. She truly did have it all after a lifetime of struggles. Unfortunately, her stepbrother arrives in town and threatens to ruin her well-laid plans with some blackmail. Tara stops at almost nothing to keep her skeletons from tumbling out of the closet.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2fwCWdl

Kobo: goo.gl/K86bZJ

iTunes: https://goo.gl/j3hlrt

Goodreads:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32764369-season-of-survival-box-set

*The Season of Survival Box Set contains adult situations, language and violence. Each story can be read as a stand alone. This is a reissue of the Seasons of Thrills Box Set.*

HAPPY READING!

~~~

All giveaway winners chosen by random.org from reader comments with the exception of Rafflecopter giveaways which are determined and announced offsite by publisher/authors. Thank you!

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s: Chicken Noodle Soup

It’s time for Karen’s Killer Fixin’s! Over the years, I’ve filled two 4-inch, 3-ring binders with my own creations as well as recipes my family and friends were willing to share with me. I simply love to cook and want to share that love with my readers. So every Friday, I share one recipe I think you and your family might enjoy. It might be a main course recipe. A cookie or baked item. Candy. Salads. Whatever strikes my eye and fancy…which today is CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP!

I don’t know about you but I make a lot of soups during the winter months. It’s great comfort food when you’re fighting off the cold and so easy to throw together in one pot. I have been known to make chicken noodle soup completely from scratch but, sometimes, it’s great to do a quickie version. That is the version I wanted to share with you today.

I hope you enjoy today’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 292 recipes and counting with this posting. Hope you find some recipes you like. If this is your first visit, please check out past blogs for more Killer Fixin’s. In the right hand column menu, you can even look up past recipes by type. i.e. Desserts, Breads, Beef, Chicken, Soups, Author Specials, etc.

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP

[Makes 10-1/2 cups]

1 pkg. chicken broth (32 oz.)

4 cups water

1 T. olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

2 stalks celery, thinly sliced

2 medium carrots, thinly sliced

1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken breast halves

3 cups medium egg noodles, uncooked

1 cup frozen peas, thawed

Pepper

In covered 3-quart saucepan, heat broth and water over high heat. Meanwhile, in 5-6 quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook 5 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally. Add celery, carrots, hot broth mixture, and 1/8 tsp. pepper, cover saucepot and heat to boiling over high heat. While vegetables are cooking, cut chicken into 3/4 –inch pieces. Uncover saucepan and stir in noodles; cover and cook 3 minutes. Stir in peas and chicken; cover and heat to boiling, 3-4 minutes.

Happy Eating!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Shadow in the Mirror by Adele Hewett Veal

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

SHADOW IN THE MIRROR

By ADELE HEWETT VEAL

Blurb

Leslee Cramer suffers from multiple personality disorder, the result of childhood abuse. Because of this illness, she has been known to find herself suddenly in strange places with no understanding of how she got there, having lost time along the way. But when she wakes up in a strange bed with a strange man who claims to be her husband, she knows something drastic has changed.

It turns out that Lee—Leslee’s alter ego—has been in control for ten years. During that time, she married and had two children, only to have her escapades terrify the kids and alienate her husband, Kevin. Les, at sea in a life she doesn’t recognize, turns to her longtime friend, Veronica Moore, and her doctor, Alex Whitfield, for their help, Along with her doctor, Alex Whitfield, Veronica is one of the few people who are aware of Les’ disorder. With their help Les must find the strength to hold onto her true identity and to recover the family that she is on the brink of losing.

Shadow in the Mirror reaches beneath the surface of one woman’s life and peers into the mirrored image of her soul to tell a story of love and forgiveness.  

SHADOW IN THE MIRROR

By ADELE HEWETT VEAL

Excerpt

“We’ve talked about all this! You agreed to sign the divorce papers and go, or I was going to call the police and tell them everything. I have all the evidence I need to put you away for a long time. Hell, for what you were planning. I could have you put away for life.

I thought, if you’d go away, it would be so much better than having the children see their mother taken away by police. I gave you the benefit of the doubt, Lee. I did what you asked me to do. I set up the meeting. Dave got the papers ready, and all you had to do was sign them and go away. And what happens? You have a car accident. How convenient! You don’t fool me, Lee. I know your tactics, and this is one of them. I’m sick of your games, and I’m sick of you! Your best bet is to stay the hell out of my face tonight. Since you have it made up in your mind to stay for the party. Stay. But you have a choice, either leave on your own tonight, or I’m calling the police first thing in the morning to tell them everything I know. So, if I were you, I’d start packin’.” The thunder in his voice seemed to shake the whole house.

Les, couldn’t listen to anymore. She bounded from the chair and stormed over to him. Tears of outrage spilling over onto her cheeks again. She was furious! So, this is the reason Lee decided to disappear? The rage, confusion, chaos, and the pain in her head all stormed from her voice.

“You look at my face, Kevin Jenison and listen to me very carefully. Lee Cramer is an evil, spiteful, despicable bitch who has devastated my life and yours, and now you tell me she hurt my children? I want her gone just as badly as you do. That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you! Ten years ago you asked me not to give up on you. Now, I’m asking for the same courtesy. Can’t you see me, Kevin?” She wiped her hand over her face. “Look past this and see me for God sake. I’m not Lee! That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you. I live with a disorder called DID. I’m NOT Lee!” Les shouted at the top of her lungs. She rushed passed him, pulled the doors open and ran as far away from him as she could run.

Meet Author Adele Hewett Veal. .. 

Adele Hewett Veal was born in Akron, Ohio and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1999. A life-long storyteller, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business with a concentration in communication. She has previously produced a CD of theatrical poetry entitled, From a Whisper to a Touch, an inspirational moment with Adele Hewett. She has also written, songs, stage plays, and a series of children’s books. Adele has three children and seven grandchildren.

~~~

Links to Adele’s website, blog, books, etc.

Adele’s book is available on her personal website, www.adelehewett.com, or at most online bookstores such as, amzn.to/29RPMwi , http://bookstore.iuniverse.com, www.amazon.com, and www.bn.com.

Shadow in the Mirror Amazon:

http://amzn.to/2iyEtwS

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Adele is giving away an ebook copy of SHADOW IN THE MIRROR to two lucky readers who comment on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Good luck!

Thanks, Adele, for sharing your books with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Shadow in the Mirror by Adele Hewitt Veal

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

SHADOW IN THE MIRROR

By ADELE HEWITT VEAL

Blurb

Leslee Cramer suffers from multiple personality disorder, the result of childhood abuse. Because of this illness, she has been known to find herself suddenly in strange places with no understanding of how she got there, having lost time along the way. But when she wakes up in a strange bed with a strange man who claims to be her husband, she knows something drastic has changed.

It turns out that Lee—Leslee’s alter ego—has been in control for ten years. During that time, she married and had two children, only to have her escapades terrify the kids and alienate her husband, Kevin. Les, at sea in a life she doesn’t recognize, turns to her longtime friend, Veronica Moore, and her doctor, Alex Whitfield, for their help, Along with her doctor, Alex Whitfield, Veronica is one of the few people who are aware of Les’ disorder. With their help Les must find the strength to hold onto her true identity and to recover the family that she is on the brink of losing.

Shadow in the Mirror reaches beneath the surface of one woman’s life and peers into the mirrored image of her soul to tell a story of love and forgiveness.  

SHADOW IN THE MIRROR

By ADELE HEWITT VEAL

Excerpt

“We’ve talked about all this! You agreed to sign the divorce papers and go, or I was going to call the police and tell them everything. I have all the evidence I need to put you away for a long time. Hell, for what you were planning. I could have you put away for life.

I thought, if you’d go away, it would be so much better than having the children see their mother taken away by police. I gave you the benefit of the doubt, Lee. I did what you asked me to do. I set up the meeting. Dave got the papers ready, and all you had to do was sign them and go away. And what happens? You have a car accident. How convenient! You don’t fool me, Lee. I know your tactics, and this is one of them. I’m sick of your games, and I’m sick of you! Your best bet is to stay the hell out of my face tonight. Since you have it made up in your mind to stay for the party. Stay. But you have a choice, either leave on your own tonight, or I’m calling the police first thing in the morning to tell them everything I know. So, if I were you, I’d start packin’.” The thunder in his voice seemed to shake the whole house.

Les, couldn’t listen to anymore. She bounded from the chair and stormed over to him. Tears of outrage spilling over onto her cheeks again. She was furious! So, this is the reason Lee decided to disappear? The rage, confusion, chaos, and the pain in her head all stormed from her voice.

“You look at my face, Kevin Jenison and listen to me very carefully. Lee Cramer is an evil, spiteful, despicable bitch who has devastated my life and yours, and now you tell me she hurt my children? I want her gone just as badly as you do. That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you! Ten years ago you asked me not to give up on you. Now, I’m asking for the same courtesy. Can’t you see me, Kevin?” She wiped her hand over her face. “Look past this and see me for God sake. I’m not Lee! That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you. I live with a disorder called DID. I’m NOT Lee!” Les shouted at the top of her lungs. She rushed passed him, pulled the doors open and ran as far away from him as she could run.

Meet Author Adele Hewitt Veal. .. 

Adele Hewett Veal was born in Akron, Ohio and relocated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1999. A life-long storyteller, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business with a concentration in communication. She has previously produced a CD of theatrical poetry entitled, From a Whisper to a Touch, an inspirational moment with Adele Hewett. She has also written, songs, stage plays, and a series of children’s books. Adele has three children and seven grandchildren.

~~~

Links to Adele’s website, blog, books, etc.

Adele’s book is available on her personal website, www.adelehewett.com, or at most online bookstores such as, amzn.to/29RPMwi , http://bookstore.iuniverse.com, www.amazon.com, and www.bn.com.

Shadow in the Mirror Amazon:

http://amzn.to/2iyEtwS

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Adele is giving away an ebook copy of SHADOW IN THE MIRROR to two lucky readers who comment on her Author Peek Interview or Killer Book Bench blogs. Good luck!

Thanks, Adele, for sharing your books with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: In Your Arms (For Your Love #2) by Shannyn Schroeder

 KAREN’S KILLER BOOK BENCH: Welcome to Karen’s Killer Book Bench where readers can discover talented new authors and take a peek inside their wonderful books. This is not an age-filtered site so all book peeks are PG-13 or better. Come back and visit often. Happy reading!

~~

IN YOUR ARMS

For Your Love #2

By SHANNYN SCHROEDER

Blurb

A KNIGHT IN SHINING LEATHER…

Sean O’Malley has never tried to hide who he is. He shows it in the motorcycle thrumming between the legs of his tight jeans…the shaggy hair that falls in his gorgeous eyes…the wicked gleam in his smile when he asks Emma out for a drink. Sean is a rebel, a bad boy, and a ton of fun: exactly the kind of guy she’s sworn off forever.

Emma isn’t just the prim kindergarten teacher she appears to be. And somehow Sean can tell. As soon as he pulls up to her overheated car he knows that a fast bike and a cold beer will fix her rotten day better than compliments or a bubble bath. Her straitlaced exterior and her wild heart light him up. But Emma wants to escape her past and settle down—and if her desk jockey dates don’t understand where she comes from, at least she doesn’t worry about them bringing her back.

One weekend of intense connection can’t change the paths Sean and Emma have chosen. But with a little space to be themselves together, maybe the rest of the world can wait…

IN YOUR ARMS

For Your Love #2

By SHANNYN SCHROEDER

Meet the Hero (In Your Arms) – Sean O’Malley

I love the O’Malleys. From the first moment I wrote about them in my O’Learys series, I fell for them. And Sean is one of my favorites. Everyone describes him as a live-and-let-live kind of guy who happens to be quick with his fists. And that really sums up who he is.

Sean is all about enjoying life. He works as a mechanic because he likes working on cars. It’s not a stepping-stone to some other career. He plays hockey every chance he gets and rides his motorcycle until the weather prohibits it. He does whatever he wants, pretty much no matter what. When he has a chance to enjoy a long motorcycle ride due to some unexpected awesome weather, he goes, even though it costs him his job. He knows he won’t have a problem getting a new one.

Sean loves his family and likes having them around. It’s part of why he continues to live at home. He can afford to live in his own place, but he chooses not to. He’s very protective of everyone he cares about, and that’s the reason he’s usually so quick to use his fists.

Part of why Sean refuses to be more than an “overgrown boy” is because he grew up watching his older brother Jimmy take care of everyone. Jimmy is ultra-responsible and Sean doesn’t want to live with that kind of burden.

When he meets Emma, he starts to want a relationship with her and doesn’t understand how he could fall for a woman who is a female version of Jimmy. She expects him to be something he can’t be, but for her he’s willing to try.

IN YOUR ARMS

For Your Love #2

By SHANNYN SCHROEDER

Excerpt

They climbed back on the motorcycle and left the parking lot. Sean drove them into a quiet residential neighborhood of single-family homes. Not an apartment in sight. Her radar immediately pinged. This was not a guy who had his shit together enough to own a house.

She could write a book on how to pick up the man-boy. Sean parked and she shoved the thought away. This was about the weekend. About her getting what she wanted—no, needed—for the moment. Then she’d go back to her real life and look for what she should have. What she really wanted. At least find a guy who was adult enough to not live at home with mom.

Sean held her hand and pulled her to the back of the building. When he moved toward basement steps, she pulled from his grasp. “Where are we going?”

“My place.” He hitched his chin in the direction of the door. “My room’s in the basement.”

“What are you? Twelve?”

“My brother Tommy and I have it set up as our own place.”

She sighed. “Do you at least have your own bedroom? Or am I supposed to screw you with an audience?”

He laughed and reached for her hip. His voice dropped into the sexy range. “While I share a lot of things with my brother, a woman isn’t one.”

Then he turned and pushed her toward the steps leading upstairs. “We can have a drink upstairs first so you can see I’m not a crazy guy looking to lock you in my basement.”

She laughed a little at that. For a bad boy, Sean was pretty adept at reading things. He opened the back door and flicked on the light, flooding the kitchen. As he locked up, she saw how beat up his hand was. His knuckles were red and swollen.

She winced. “You should ice your hand.”

Sean reached into the refrigerator and handed her a bottle of beer. With his own bottle in one hand, he grabbed a bag of frozen green beans with the other. Emma took his beer from him and opened it.

He flexed his hand and looked at it as if he hadn’t noticed before. “No big deal.”

But it was a big deal. She’d been in similar situations too many times to recall. Her mom had taught her to smile and laugh it off, but Emma had never been able to do that. It rattled her every time. Memories of the guy pressing against her, trapping her, washed over her now. From deep in her bones, she felt every part of her start to tremble. To cover it, she gulped some beer.

She gripped the bottle tightly as she set it on the table and took a seat across from Sean. He watched her closely. “You sure that guy didn’t do anything to you? I mean, other than get in your face?”

She shook her head and didn’t like the way the room started to spin, so she answered, “No.”

“You look really upset.”

“I’m fine. Are we going downstairs or what?” Right now, she’d give almost anything to forget this day. She pushed off the table, wobblier than she’d thought she was.

Sean stood, still eyeing her, and tossed his vegetables back in the freezer. She finished her beer and suddenly realized the goldfish crackers she’d eaten in her car were the closest thing she’d had to dinner. No wonder the alcohol had hit so hard. Sean grabbed her hand and led her downstairs.

The basement was mostly unfinished. Concrete floor and walls. A washer and dryer sat against one side. Sean pulled her toward the back of the basement. Actually, the front of the house. There, crudely constructed walls divided the space.

He pointed toward the corner. “That’s the bathroom. Tommy’s room is next to it. This one’s mine,” he added with his hand on the doorknob.

She snickered. “This is your idea of having it set up like an apartment?”

“It’s better than a mattress on the floor or sleeping on the living room couch.”

The last remark hit home because that was exactly where she’d found Nicky more often than she cared to consider. So at least Sean was a step up from her loser brother.

Meet Author Shannyn Schroeder. ..

Shannyn Schroeder is the author of the O’Leary series, contemporary romances centered around a large Irish-American family in Chicago and the Hot & Nerdy series about 3 nerdy friends finding love. Her new series (For Your Love) will release this summer with the first title Under Your Skin. When she’s not wrangling her three kids or writing, she watches a ton of TV and loves to bake cookies.

~~~

Links to Shannyn’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow Tour:

http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/10/in-your-arms-for-your-love-2-by-shannynhtml

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30037290-in-your-arms

Goodreads Series Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/series/180591-for-your-love

Buy Links:     Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

~~~

Thanks, Shannyn, for sharing your books with us!

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations JANUARY 2017 Blog Subscriber Giveaway Winner!!

Time to announce the JANUARY 2017 #WINNER of my Monthly Blog Subscriber Giveaway, where special readers can win a read or coffee – two of my favorite things—on me!!!

And the winner is…

DLMCTL-LABELLE…

Congratulations! You have won a $5 gift card from Amazon or Starbucks (your choice)! I’ll contact you privately to arrange for delivery of your gift.

Dear Readers,

If you missed this month’s giveaway, you can still subscribe to my blog at http://www.karendocter.com/ to get my blogs delivered straight to your email and be entered EACH MONTH into a random drawing for #FREE $5 gift card. On the first of each month, I’ll draw one name at www.random.org from all of my subscribers to receive the card.

More wonderful perks to subscribing to my blog? The blogs, when they appear in your Inbox, are pretty and easy to read. You can discover new authors, recipes and reader fun…and many of the authors sponsor GIVEAWAYS just for commenting!

If you’re only in the mood to receive my Special Release Alerts, you can subscribe to my mailing list instead. This is NOT a newsletter, but the occasional Karen/K.L. Docter news release.

Thanks for joining me on Karen’s Killer Book Bench!!

Karen/K.L.

To avoid SPAM filters, I’m announcing this random giveaway on the blog so that all current subscribers will know who won. If your name is announced and you don’t hear from me and can’t find an email in your SPAM folder, please contact me at kldocter@yahoo.com. Thank you!
Winners selected by random.org.