Karen Docter's Blog, page 220

February 24, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: See You At Sunset by V.K. Sykes

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!

SEE YOU AT SUNSET

Seashell Bay #3

BY V.K. SYKES

Blurb

DEEPER THAN ANY OCEAN . . .

All Holly Tyler wants is a fantastic career, a not-too-committed relationship, and a city where there are no painful memories. Instead, she’s called back to her hometown of Seashell Bay to help with her family’s struggling general store. It’s a town where everyone knows everyone, and where one man could sink Holly’s careful plans.

Deputy Sheriff Micah Lancaster has wanted Holly for as long as he can remember. He knows she has a life on the mainland-and a boyfriend-and that there’s no real future with her. But now Holly is back and the attraction still flickers between them, a promise of something more. Their desire is stronger than any undertow . . . and once it pulls them under, it won’t let go.

SEE YOU AT SUNSET

Seashell Bay #3

BY V.K. SYKES

All Micah could think about was Holly. When she stepped off the boat, tall and elegant and more beautiful than ever, he’d wanted nothing more than to sweep her into his arms and carry her off, as if they were in some goofy romantic movie. Of course, what he’d wanted to do to her next was considerably more X-rated, so playing it cool had taken some doing.

He had to admit though that she’d looked a little worn out, which was hardly surprising given the circumstances. Her deep brown eyes had lacked their usual sparkle, and that made him even more determined to find something he could do to help both her and her aunts. He knew how much Holly had appreciated the things he’d done for her last summer, and the pleasure of her company had made it more than worth it to him. Helping her out was no chore.

Not that he hadn’t been frustrated on more than one occasion, having to throttle back his lust to manageable levels. But the last thing he wanted to do was screw up their friendship, so he’d done what he had to do.

Before he could call it a day, Micah still had work to do, retrieving an Easter Island statue that Daisy Whipple had lifted from Peggy Fogg’s front yard. Daisy, the island’s seventy-year-old kleptomaniac, remained the object of bemused tolerance and even grudging affection, at least from the old-timers. Micah had long ago lost count of the number of times he’d had to recover some item she’d stolen. Not that she was a break-in artist. No, she simply plucked whatever she fancied from people’s yards when they weren’t around, or sometimes even when they were. That was always good for a laugh, although some of the newer residents weren’t really down with the joke.

Micah spotted the statue as soon as he stepped out of his Chevy Tahoe. The two-and-a-half-foot-high gray resin sculpture now occupied pride of place in one of Daisy’s raised garden plots, butted up next to her tomato vines. She probably put it in that strategic spot in the vain hope that it might frighten marauding deer away from her vegetables. It was sure ugly enough, but in his experience, nothing deterred the deer short of an electrified fence.

Micah picked up the little statue, brushed some dirt and a curled-up worm off the bottom, and deposited it in the trunk of the cruiser.

“Do you think it’s right to just up and take whatever you want, Micah Lancaster?” Daisy shouted from her half-open screen door. Short and round with steel-gray hair tied back in a ponytail, Daisy wore a cardigan over her dress in spite of the warm day. “How many times have I told you that you can’t just waltz right in and steal my property?”

“Actually, ma’am, it’s Peggy Fogg’s property,” Micah said politely. “She paid good money for it.”

“Her property? Well, so she says,” Daisy grumbled.

“I’ll ask Peggy to show me a bill of sale before I let her have it,” Micah said. Sure I will.

Daisy made a loud sniffing noise. “Well, you’d best see that you do.”

Micah and Daisy had gone through this routine so many times that they didn’t need a script. He tipped his hat to her and went to get back in the cruiser.

“Are you in such an all-fired hurry that you can’t take time for a glass of lemonade, Deputy?” she called after him.

Micah smiled as he turned to face her. “Well, you do make the best lemonade in Maine, Daisy.”

She nodded and then trundled into the house, returning moments later with a tall, iced glass of lemonade. They sat together on her creaky porch swing and talked about the weather and the deer problem for ten minutes before Micah decided he’d better get moving.

After thanking Daisy for her hospitality, he got into his car and headed back down the semi-overgrown path to Island Road, braking when he heard a rattling roar approach from his right. About a second later, a familiar golf cart buzzed by on the main road.

Rocket Roy Mayo—at it again.

Micah heaved a sigh and bumped up onto the road, turning on the cruiser’s light bar. He flipped the siren on too, since Roy never bothered to look in his rearview mirror. Then again, he knew the siren might have no effect, since the old guy tended to shun his hearing aids, and the straining cart motor made as much noise as the average jetliner. Fortunately, about a hundred yards down the road, Roy figured it out and stomped on the brakes. The cart screeched to a stop and ended up with two wheels on the sloped grass verge.

Micah put on his hat and pulled his sunglasses down. He strolled up to the cart and bent down a little to look at Roy. “Hell, Roy, is Miss Annie dying? Because that’s the only good excuse I can think of for driving this thing like some idiot teenager.”

Miss Annie was Roy’s live-in girlfriend and the widowed matriarch of the Doyle clan. She and Roy seemed to have found a crotchety sort of happiness in each other’s company.

Roy peered up with startling blue eyes that made Micah think of the North Atlantic in winter. Tall and wiry, he looked at least ten years younger than his chronological age. “Well, there’s no excuse for harassing a ninety-year-old man either, Lancaster. Not when the only thing I could hit on this goat track is a deer, and the island would be a damn sight better off without both me and the varmint if I did.”

“Roy, I have it on good authority that you’re ninety-two. But never mind, because you could definitely pass for ninety.”

The old dude bared his teeth or, more accurately, his dentures. “Ha, ha. I’ve always said you’d make a better comedian than a cop, and you’re not even funny.”

Micah laughed. “Be that as it may, here’s the deal, Rocket Man. No more free rides. One more speeding offense and I’ll have to finally confiscate your keys.”

Roy gave him a pretty credible sneer. “Just try it, sonny, because I’ll sue your ass off. And you know what else? I’ll file an age discrimination complaint with the government too. Just watch me.”

Both of them knew the exchange was mostly in fun. Despite some locals griping about Roy’s driving habits, the old guy wasn’t much of a threat to life and limb. While Roy often drove the cart too fast, he remained an efficient driver who slowed to a crawl whenever he neared the school or the busy areas around the ferry dock.

“Nothing like a litigious old codger to ruin my day,” Micah said with an exaggerated sigh.

“There you go again. Ageism, plain and simple,” Roy retorted.

Meet the Author V.K. Sykes …

V.K. Sykes is really two people – Vanessa Kelly and Randy Sykes, a husband and wife team who write USA Today Bestselling contemporary romance and also romantic suspense. Randy excels at plot and characterization, but tends to fall down on the job when it comes to that pesky old thing called emotion. That’s where Vanessa steps in. She usually writes the sex scenes too, since Randy is a bit uncomfortable when it comes to that sort of stuff. Vanessa also writes award-winning Regency-set historical romance for Kensington Zebra under her own name. You can check out Vanessa’s bestselling historical romances at www.vanessakellyauthor.com

~~~

Links to V.K.’s website, blog, books, etc.

Link to Follow Tour:

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/11/see-you-at-sunset-seashell-bay-3-by-vk.html

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25711951-see-you-at-sunset

Goodreads Series Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/series/129828-seashell-bay

Amazon: See You at Sunset (Seashell Bay)

B&N:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/see-you-at-sunset-v-k-sykes/1122087702?ean=9781455552597

Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/books/d...

_See_You_at_Sunset?id=7CDVCQAAQBAJ

iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/see-you-at-sunset/id1003350471?mt=11

Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/see-you-at-sunset

Author Links: Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Website

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Published on February 24, 2016 23:05

February 23, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Banished Love by Ramona Flightner

BANISHED LOVE

Banished Saga, Book 1

BY RAMONA FLIGHTNER

Blurb

I’m suffocating under the weight of others’ expectations. If I have to sit through one more afternoon tea, listening to my simpering stepmother extoll the benefits of traditional roles for women, I fear I’ll scream, “The world is changing. It’s 1900!”

I want more from life than she can imagine.

If she knew of my interest in Gabriel, she’d have a fit of the vapors. She’d bemoan his humble beginnings and lack of wealth rather than recognize his integrity or his loyalty to his brothers. If she saw how he stares at me, as though I’m a puzzle he’s trying to solve, she’d lock me in my room. He fascinates me, as no one has since that awful day.

How can we surmount society’s prejudices and allow our love to grow?

BANISHED LOVE

Banished Saga, Book 1

BY RAMONA FLIGHTNER

EXCERPT

“It is a rather cold day out. If we could warm up with a cup of tea first, then depart, would that be acceptable?” I asked. I sat down in the rocking chair, noting Savannah’s assessing look at the perfectly dimensioned chair built for me. I began to rock gently, calming my racing heart.

“Yes, of course.” Gabriel turned toward the kettle and gathered the necessary mugs.

“If you don’t mind me saying so, Mr. McLeod, you seem quite domesticated,” Savannah said in a haughty tone.

Gabriel laughed. “Like a favorite pet, Miss Russell?” He glanced toward her with humor. “I always think domestication ruins the better part of the beast.”

“But you wouldn’t want a wild dog in your house,” Savannah protested. “And horses must be tamed.”

Gabriel nodded. “I would hate to think you compared me to a horse or a dog, miss. I hope I have better manners than that?” he asked, raising his eyebrows mockingly toward Savannah. “Though, I agree, horses are most useful for our purpose when tamed, but I wonder if they truly enjoy working for us?” He looked toward me, although he did not push me into the conversation.

He let out a long theatrical sigh. “Domesticated cats, dogs. Domesticated women. Wonderful creatures. Wouldn’t you agree, Miss Sullivan?” He looked toward me wickedly. I had bolted so hard in the rocker at his words I had nearly flown onto the floor. I watched him with wide eyes, wondering why he pushed Savannah so.

Savannah replied, “Now you are offensive, sir.” She vibrated with anger.

“Isn’t that what all young women long to be?” Gabriel asked Savannah, setting down the filled mugs with a clunk. “Domesticated. Demure. Tamed to the needs and ways of their husbands?”

“You know perfectly well you are describing the ideal wife,” Savannah spat out.

“Am I?” he asked, sounding unconvinced. “What do you think, Miss Sullivan?” he turned to me. “Is that what you long to be, a domesticated woman?”

“No!” I blurted out before I could stop myself.

“Rissa!” Savannah scolded me, eyes flashing. She had begun to breathe heavily, and I feared she would faint with her tightly laced corset.

I blushed but met Gabriel’s eyes. “No,” I said. “I have no desire to match that description. Slightly less clumsy, perhaps,” I muttered.

“Yes, I agree,” Gabriel said, causing me to worry he agreed with my assessment about my clumsiness. “Domestication is akin to docility which is an unattractive trait in a woman.” He smiled knowingly at me, and I felt a flash of pleasure.

“Do you speak in earnestness, sir, or are you in jest?” Savannah demanded. When Gabriel merely turned to look at her, she continued. “Men want docile, demure women,” she expounded, as though teaching a rudimentary fact to Gabriel.

“Well, pardon me, ma’am, for not learning my lessons well,” he replied, nodding his head deferentially.

I watched Savannah’s face become flushed red with anger and was worried she would erupt. She generally kept her temper under control, but, when it blew, it was a frightening thing to behold.

“I’d actually like to meet a young woman who can think for herself and doesn’t want only what her father or husband wants.” His quiet statement made my pulse quicken.

Savannah scoffed, “That path leads only to misery.”

“Or tremendous contentment,” Gabriel countered.

Savannah stood, knocking into the table with such force she caused tea to spill out of the mugs. “I will not sit here any longer and listen to your insolent beliefs,” she declared. “Rissa?” She turned toward me expectantly, then headed toward the door.

I looked at Gabriel with remorse, wanting to have spent longer time in his company. “I enjoyed our conversation. Maybe we could continue it one day at the school?” I watched him, hopeful he would agree.

He smiled, releasing a sigh of relief. “I would enjoy that very much, Miss Clarissa.”

I had forgotten how his voice could feel like a caress. I closed my eyes for a moment, having missed hearing his gentle baritone. No matter how much I had enjoyed his letters, I had missed him.

Meet Author Ramona Flightner …

Ramona Flightner is an avid reader, writer, and traveler. By day, she practices the healing arts as a nurse practitioner. Every other moment, she’s researching, reading and writing her next novel. BANISHED LOVE, RECLAIMED LOVE, and UNDAUNTED LOVE are the first novels in her forthcoming Banished Saga.

Ramona is from Missoula, Montana. She currently resides in Boston, Massachusetts. Her favorite pastimes are fly fishing the cool, clear streams of a Montana river, hiking in the mountains, and spending time with family and friends.

~~~

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

My email is: ramona@ramonaflightner.com

My website is: http://www.ramonaflightner.com

Amazon: Banished Love (Banished Saga, Book 1)

Nook:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews/banished-love-ramona-flightner/1118463479?ean=9780986050213

i-Books:

https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/banished-love/id903730734?mt=11

Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/banished-love-banished-saga-book-1

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Ramona is giving away an e-book copy of BANISHED LOVE to EVERY READER who reads her Karen’s Killer Book Bench Blog. Go to any of the links above to download your FREE copy! Thank you, Ramona, for sharing your story with us.

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

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Published on February 23, 2016 23:05

February 22, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Lady Bridget’s Diary by Maya Rodale

LADY BRIDGET’S DIARY

Keeping Up with the Cavendishes #1

BY MAYA RODALE

Blurb

In the first hilarious entry in her brand new series, USA Today bestselling author Maya Rodale re-invents a love story we all know and cherish.

Lord Darcy is the epitome of perfect

Lord Darcy is the quintessential Englishman: wealthy, titled, impossibly proper and horrified that a pack of Americans have inherited one of England’s most respected dukedoms. But his manners, his infamous self-restraint and better judgment fly out the window when he finds himself with the maddening American girl next door.

Lady Bridget is the opposite of perfect

Lady Bridget Cavendish has grand-but thwarted-plans to become a Perfect Lady and take the haute ton by storm. In her diary, Bridget records her disastrous attempts to assimilate in London high society, her adoration of the handsome rogue next door, her loathing of the Dreadful Lord Darcy and some truly scandalous secrets that could ruin them all.

They cannot stand each other-and yet they cannot stay away

It was loathing at first sight for Lady Bridget and Lord Darcy. But their paths keep crossing…and somehow involve kissing. When Lady Bridget’s diary goes missing, both Darcy and Bridget must decide what matters most of all-a sterling reputation or a perfectly imperfect love.

LADY BRIDGET’S DIARY

Keeping Up with the Cavendishes #1

BY MAYA RODALE

EXCERPT

Prologue

Oceans crossed: 1

Sisters who plagued me the entire journey: 2

Brothers who suddenly became a duke: 1

Fearsome duchesses: 1

Lady Bridget’s Diary

London, 1824

Durham Residence

The Ballroom

One would think that having one’s brother inherit a dukedom was a stroke of good fortune that would transform their lives from ho-hum to utterly fantastic. One would think that until one was on a reducing diet, stuffed into a tightly laced corset, and forced to practice walking backward.

“Once again, Lady Bridget,” the duchess said crisply.

She was Lady Bridget Cavendish now. Before she had just been Bridget Cavendish of Duncraven farm in Maryland. But then a letter had arrived one day, with the unexpected news that James was now a duke and they were all to leave everything behind and travel to England, immediately.

“Yes Lady Bridget, once more please,” Amelia said with a smirk.

“Do shut up, Amelia,” Bridget said, under her breath. Younger sisters were quite annoying, on any continent.

“It’s ‘Do shut up, Lady Amelia,’” Claire, the oldest sister, corrected. She found all the formality as ridiculous as the rest of their family, much to the despair of the duchess.

Somewhere about the massive house—probably in the stables, even though the duchess made it perfectly clear dukes were above mucking about in the stables—was her brother, James. Or, as he was now to be known, His Grace, the Duke of Durham. Dukes had many responsibilities, it seemed, but walking backward in a gown with an excessively long train was not one of them.

Before her, with sharp blue eyes and perfectly coiffed blond hair, was Josephine Marie Elizabeth Cavendish, Her Grace, the Duchess of Durham, widow of the previous duke, and aunt to the Cavendish siblings.

One did not call her Josie. Amelia had asked.

“Remind me why we are learning to do something as ridiculous as walk backward?” Claire asked. From a young age, she had spent her free hours devoted to the study of mathematics, otherwise known as Important Work. Bridget’s head ached just to think about it.

“It is for your presentation at court,” the duchess replied. “Which is necessary before your debut in society, which you must do in order to find a husband, which a lady must do, lest she become an impoverished spinster.”

“What if we do not wish for a husband?” Amelia asked.

“What a silly question,” the duchess replied. “Lady Bridget, once again.”

At the duchess’s request, Bridget sank into a curtsy. They had practiced this extensively on Tuesday afternoon. Then, with as much grace as she could muster, Bridget rose and began to elegantly glide backward. Or so she tried; feats of grace did not come easily to her (a point upon which their dancing instructor would absolutely agree). Nothing about being a True Lady did. Bridget had daydreamt through lessons on the order of precedence amongst members of the haute ton, how to properly pour a cup of tea, and all the other lessons on etiquette and deportment they endured morning, noon, and night.

“Now Lady Amelia, it is your turn.”

While the duchess’s attention was focused on her sisters, Bridget took advantage of her distraction to continue walking backward until she had crossed the length of the ballroom, then she continued through the large double doors and halfway down the corridor, at which point she turned, lifted her skirts, and proceeded to the kitchens. Reducing diet, deportment lessons, and True Lady-ness be damned.

Meet the Author, Maya Rodale …

Maya Rodale began reading romance novels in college at her mother’s insistence and it wasn’t long before she was writing her own. Maya is now the author of multiple Regency historical romances. She lives in New York City with her darling dog and a rogue of her own.

~~~

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

Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/12/lady-bridgets-diary-keeping-up-with.html

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25817357-lady-bridget-s-diary

Goodreads Series Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/series/153521-cavendish

Author Links:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Amazon:

Lady Bridget’s Diary (Keeping Up with the Cavendishes)

B&N:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/lady-bridgets-diary-maya-rodale/1121860614

Google Play:

https://play.google.com/store/books/d...

Lady_Bridget_s_Diary?id=QvTyCAAAQBAJ

iTunes:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/lady-bridgets-diary/id991759746?mt=11

Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/lady-bridget-s-diary

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Published on February 22, 2016 23:05

February 21, 2016

Author Peek Interview with Ramona Flightner

**Author Peek** Interview with RAMONA FLIGHTNER

INTRODUCING…Ramona.

Before we get started talking about your writing, tell us a little about yourself, where you’re from, what you do for a living (if you’re not a full-time writer) what hobbies you have, etc. Whatever you’d like to share to introduce yourself.

I’m from Missoula, Montana, although I currently live in Boston, Massachusetts. Due to this, my books take place in both Boston and Montana. There exists a duality of place in my writing as there is in my life. For work, I’m a full time family nurse practitioner and I work at a community health center in Boston. Even though most of my spare time is filled with researching my latest book, writing and editing, I still make time to garden, cook, travel and spend time with family and friends. When I’m home in Montana, I hike and fly fish. There’s nothing like the soothing sounds of a river and the breeze blowing through the trees to calm my soul after time spent in the big city.

 1. What genre(s) do you write and why?

I write historical romance. I love research and imagining how others lived. I also like seeing the similarities and differences in the challenges that people in the past faced, especially women. The role of women has changed dramatically since the early 1900’s when my books are based. I love researching and describing that world.

2. If you were to choose one superpower, what would it be?

I really don’t know a lot about superpowers, but I think there’s one where you can transport yourself from one place to another with ease. I’d like that one.

3. Do you ever get stuck when you’re writing a book? What do you do to get “unstuck”?

I get stuck all the time. I’ll either move to another scene or take a break. Generally, with a change in scenery, a fresh idea comes and whatever had stymied me is forgotten. The most wonderful ideas come when I’m out for a walk, driving, or in the shower!

4. What is your least favorite part of writing?

I’m a complete pantser, which can be a problem when you write books that are 120K+ words. When I write my first draft, I don’t write sequentially, and the hardest part is knitting it all together at the end. I often have to give myself a pep talk to do it, but in the end, it’s fun to see the story come together.

5. If we came to your house for dinner, what would you prepare for us?  

It would depend on the season and my mood. I lived in Spain for a year, and I make delicious Spanish tapas, with my specialty tortilla espanola. I also make a delicious paella.

6. What is your typical day like?

I work five days a week at the clinic, so I generally am up around 5:30 to write, edit or research before I go to work. Then, when I come home in the evening, I repeat the same for an hour or so if I have the energy. On the weekends, I will do “power” writing sessions, sometimes writing or editing for ten or twelve hours if the story is flowing. Those are good days.

7. What is most difficult for you to write? Characters, conflict or emotions? Why?

Those aren’t the hard things for me. The hardest things for me to write are descriptions. I will often postpone describing a room or clothes or a street scene because they are the most challenging for me. I know what I want to say, but expressing it is difficult. Ironically, my readers have told me they love the descriptions I’ve labored over.

8. How likely are the people you meet going to end up in your next book?

Somewhat likely. I doubt you’d be able to recognize yourself, but phrases or situations will be stored away for future use. Everyone I meet and every story I hear is open game for a future story or character trait.

9. Tell us about your hero. Give us one of his strengths and one of his weaknesses.

The hero in Banished Love is Gabriel McLeod. He’s a struggling cabinetmaker who’s hopeful his luck has just turned when he meets Clarissa Sullivan. He helped raise his two younger brothers after they were orphaned as children, ensuring they remained together rather than become separated at an orphanage. One of Gabriel’s greatest strengths is his loyalty. His greatest weakness is pride.

10.Tell us about your next book & when is it being published?    Please provide links to your website, blog, books, etc.

I’m currently editing Book 4 in the Banished Saga. My goal is to publish it sometime this summer, with the most immediate goal determining the title!

~~~~~

Be sure to come back to read more about Ramona and her novel, BANISHED LOVE, on Wednesday’s Karen’s Killer Book Bench. Happy Reading!

~~~

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

My email is: ramona@ramonaflightner.com

My website is: http://www.ramonaflightner.com

Amazon: Banished Love (Banished Saga, Book 1)

Nook:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/reviews/banished-love-ramona-flightner/1118463479?ean=9780986050213

i-Books:

https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/banished-love/id903730734?mt=11

Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/banished-love-banished-saga-book-1

~~~

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

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Published on February 21, 2016 23:05

If You Love Romance, This Is It February $0.99 SALE!!

If You Love Romance, This Is It!!

**February $0.99 SALE**

Cheaper Than a Box of Chocolates

Not One Single Calorie!!

I’m celebrating the launch of my Indie career and 4th anniversary of my contemporary romantic comedy release of SATIN PLEASURES with a month-long $.99 SALE! Now’s your chance to read these stories for only $.99 each.

SATIN PLEASURES by Karen Docter

Contemporary Romantic Comedy

Blurb: Bustiers, Birds, and the Blues…

Dan McDonald walked away from the American dream, a life full of money, glamorous women and power. Now nothing can lure him back into the corporate death trap. Except….

Dan’s scheming aunt snares him into opening a lingerie shop in Tess Emory’s shopping mall. Tess is everything Dan has vowed to avoid…sexy, smart, and obsessed with work.

Tess is determined to make her life a success and right the wrongs of her past, no matter the cost.

They’re both going to discover that true love breaks all their rules.

** RomCon Reader’s Crown finalist ~ Contemporary Category

** Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® finalist ~ Best Short Contemporary Romance

AMAZON: Satin Pleasures

CATCH THAT SANTA by Karen Docter

Contemporary Romantic Comedy

Blurb: When widow, Sara Marks, hears her Grams has gone on the lam from Happy Acres Residence on Christmas Eve – on Santa’s arm, no less — she teams up with sexy stranger, Francisco de la Vega, to chase the couple down with one thing in mind. Keep her Grams from becoming Mrs. Claus. Of course, Francisco’s grandfather is not really Santa Claus, but Grams did run off to Vegas to marry him and she’s obviously not in her right mind.

Sara leaves her seven-month-old baby, Lanie, with a friend and she and Cisco head west in the worst snowstorm in decades, chasing his grandfather’s ’57 Ford Fairlane over the river and through the woods.

Will they catch Santa and his crazy Mrs. Claus before it’s too late? Or will love stop them in their tracks?

(Novelette, approximately 17,000 words/50 pages)

AMAZON: Catch That Santa

SEASON OF THRILLS BOX SET

5 MYSTERY/SUSPENSE/THRILLER NOVELS

By Jerrie Alexander, Kim Cresswell, K.L. Docter, Rachel Kent & Marian Lanouette

Blurb: The SEASON OF THRILLS Box Set contains 5 complete suspense/mystery/thriller novels (1200+ pages) by award-winning and bestselling authors: Jerrie Alexander, Kim Cresswell, K. L. Docter, Rachel Kent, and Marian Lanouette

HELL OR HIGH WATERS by Jerrie Alexander

A woman in danger. A man she loves but can’t trust.

When former SEAL Nate Wolfe learns a woman from his past is in danger, nothing will stop him from protecting her. Not even her.

Dallas Child Protection Services Investigator Kay Taylor doesn’t want or need Nate in her life. But he doesn’t seem to understand the word no. He seems to also have forgotten the brand he left on her heart.

When Kay is taken and sold to a monster, the devil himself couldn’t stop Nate from doing whatever it takes to find her…but will he be in time?

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

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

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.

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.

IF I FAIL (A Jake Carrington Mystery Book One) by Marian Lanouette

Are rules really meant to be broken? Jake Carrington finds out the hard way and the answer is no! Dating Chloe Wagner was a huge mistake, and Jake should have known better—he’s investigating the murder of Chloe’s sister. Now Chloe is the number one suspect in that murder. If she’s convicted, Jake could lose not only his rank, but his career. If that’s not bad enough, he’s got a stalker on his hands, someone who’s threatening his fledgling relationship with the lovely Mia. Things are getting just a little too personal for comfort!

SEASON OF THRILLS Box Set is a value-packed, thrill ride for those who love romantic suspense, procedural suspense, detective mysteries, thrillers, and so much more!

Amazon:

Season of Thrills Box Set: 5 Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Novels by Bestselling Authors

KOBO: bit.ly/1VJAw3R

iTunes: apple.co/1huLmNC

B&N: bit.ly/1NvGZjL

chapters.indigo: bit.ly/1LmlQ9y

HAPPY READING!!

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Published on February 21, 2016 08:43

February 20, 2016

Congratulations Week 02-08-16 Giveaway Winners!

CONGRATULATIONS WEEK

02-08-16

GIVEAWAY WINNERS!!

~~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Jools Sinclair…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Jools will give away an Amazon digital copy of FORTY-FOUR BOX SET BOOKS 1-10 to one lucky reader who comments on today’s **Author Peek** Interview or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog on Wednesday. Thank you, Jools, for sharing your stories with us!

WINNER: ROSE ARBOR!!

~~

Karen’s Killer Book Bench with Helen Hardt…

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Helen will give away a signed paperback copy/US ONLY (International winner ~ ebook only) of SOPHIE’S VOICE to one lucky reader who comments on this Karen’s Killer Book Bench Blog. Thank you, Helen, for sharing your story with us.

WINNER: COLLEEN C.!!

~~~

It’s not too late to #WIN a Texas West handbag and wallet set courtesy of Victoria Vane, author of HELL ON HEELS!

Enter: http://www.karendocter.com/karens-killer-fixins-author-special-with-victoria-vane.html

~~~

EVERYONE’S A WINNER!!!

Don’t miss the SEASON OF THRILLS BOX SET for only $.99 !!

Five (5) full-length suspense/mystery/ thriller novels by Award-winning and Bestselling Authors JERRIE ALEXANDER, KIM CRESSWELL, K.L. DOCTER, RACHEL KENT and MARIAN LANOUETTE!!

Get your copy HERE:

Amazon –

Season of Thrills Box Set: 5 Mystery/Suspense/Thriller Novels by Bestselling Authors

KOBO – bit.ly/1VJAw3R

iTunes – apple.co/1huLmNC

B&N – bit.ly/1NvGZjL

chapters.indigo – bit.ly/1LmlQ9y

~~~

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!

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Published on February 20, 2016 10:01

February 18, 2016

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s Author Special with Kat Martin

Karen’s Killer Fixin’s

**AUTHOR SPECIAL**

with KAT MARTIN!

Welcome to my Friday bonus feature called Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special**!! Today, in lieu of one of my own recipes, I’m going to introduce you to a new author who will share one of her favorite recipes. Not only will you and I occasionally learn how to make something new and delicious, but we’ll get a chance to check out some wonderful authors. Introducing author, KAT MARTIN, and her favorite recipe for CHILLED ASIAN ASPARAGUS!

~~~

INTO THE FURY

A Boss, Inc. Novel

BY KAT MARTIN

Blurb

A bodyguard, a bounty hunter, a P.I.—the men of Brodie Operations Security Service, In. are down for the job…

Sinners, whores, and sluts beware—your time is at hand: a faceless menace is threatening lingerie models on a cross country tour, and Ethan Brodie is there to defend and protect.

Ethan’s learned the hard way that beauty is no substitute for character. So even though Valentine Hart is one of the most breathtaking women he’s ever seen, he’s keeping his hands off and his eyes open. Or that’s what he tells himself.

Then one of the models is murdered, and the closer Ethan gets to the answers, the closer he finds himself to Valentine—and the hotter the pressure feels. There’s more to Val—more to the other girls—than he could have guessed. But one is keeping a secret that could kill them all.

INTO THE FURY

A Boss, Inc. Novel

BY KAT MARTIN

Excerpt

Worry rode Ethan’s shoulders all the way across town. What if the murdered woman had been Valentine? What if she was the killer’s next target? Thinking of Samantha’s beautiful friend lying dead made his stomach burn. He’d promised to protect her. If something happened, what would he say to Sam?

He was in a dark frame of mind when he climbed out of the Jeep and pushed through the door of the Perfect Pup. What the hell was a pampered woman like Valentine doing at a dog grooming parlor on the day of the fashion show?

He scoffed. Probably having ribbons tied on the topknot of some little rat dog. Maybe one of those prissy little lap-poo whatever the hell they were called.

No one was behind the counter in the waiting area, but he could hear feminine laughter at the back of the shop. At the door to one of the shampoo rooms, he spotted Samantha’s mop of nutmeg curls as she shampooed a gigantic white dog. A blond woman worked next to her, both of them up to their elbows in soapy water.

Ethan jolted to a halt as the great beast leaped out of the tub, soap bubbles flying, knocking down the taller woman, who went sprawling on her behind, the wet dog landing on top of her.

She let out a squeal of laughter matched by Samantha’s burst of hilarity. Ethan just stared. Good Christ, it was Valentine Hart.

“Hi, Ethan.” Samantha grinned. “That’s Harry.” Just then the dog gave a mighty shake, sending a barrage water droplets flying.

Sam and Valentine broke into fresh gales of laughter. Valentine’s dimples popped out and Ethan couldn’t stop staring. Her soggy T-shirt clung to a pair of perfect breasts, but it was the joy in her pretty blue eyes that made his chest feel tight.

He reached down to help her up, and she grabbed hold. As he pulled her to her feet, he felt a jolt all the way to his low-topped boots.

“Thanks,” she said, smiling.

Ethan couldn’t stop a smile in return. “You’re just full of surprises, Ms. Hart.” His gaze traveled from her messy ponytail, down her long, jean-clad legs, to a pair of worn sneakers.

Behind him, Samantha snapped Harry onto a leash and the big dog politely sat down.

“I think it’s time I introduced you two,” Sam said. “Ethan, this is Valerie Hartman. Valentine Hart is her stage name. She’s not really a model. I mean, she is, but it’s only temporary. Val’s actually a student at the university. She’s studying to be a veterinarian.”

Feeling like a fool, he turned to the pretty blonde. “I think maybe we should start over. I’m Ethan Brodie.” He stuck out a hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Valerie.”

She shook his hand. “Valerie Hartman. A pleasure, Ethan. You…umm…came here to see me,” she reminded him. “What’s going on?”

The moment of levity was over. He was there to keep her safe. “I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news, Val. Earlier this morning, Delilah Larsen was found murdered in her apartment.”

“Oh, my God.” Her eyes widened as the possibility sank in. “It wasn’t…wasn’t the guy who wrote those notes?”

“There’s a chance it was. That’s why I’m here. From now on, Val, you’re under my protection.”

About Author Kat Martin…

New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin is a graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara where she majored in Anthropology and also studied History. She is married to L.J. Martin, author of western, non-fiction, and suspense novels.

Kat has written more than sixty-five novels. Sixteen million copies of her books are in print and she has been published in twenty foreign countries, including Japan, France, Germany, Argentina, Greece, China, Russia, and Spain.

Born in Bakersfield, California, Kat currently resides in Missoula, Montana, on a small ranch in the beautiful Sapphire mountains.

Her last 10 books have hit the prestigious New York Times bestseller list. AGAINST THE WILD, AGAINST THE SKY, and AGAINST THE TIDE her latest release, took top ten spots.

~~~

Links to Kat’s Website, Books, & Social Media:

WEBSITE: http://www.katmartin.com/

VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6TuRr6l0c0

SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatMartinAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/@katmartinauthor

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25476514-into-the-fury

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: Into the Fury (BOSS, Inc.)

Barnes & Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/into-the-fury-kat-martin/1121860420?ean=9781420139006

Books A Million:

http://www.booksamillion.com/product/9781420139006

Indiebound:

http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781420139006

Kindle:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00X2ENN78/writerspace/

Nook:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/into-the-fury-kat-martin/1121860420?ean=9781420139013

Kobo:

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/into-the-fury

Googleplay:

https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Kat_Martin_Into_the_Fury?id=ndjvCAAAQBAJ

Ibooks:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/into-the-fury/id991670063?mt=11

I hope you enjoy the recipe Kat is sharing with us today on Karen’s Killer Fixin’s. Happy eating!

Karen

P.S. We’re at 246 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.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CHILLED ASIAN ASPARAGUS

Ingredients:

2 pounds fresh asparagus (the skinnier the better)

Marinade:

1 teaspoon finely minced fresh garlic

1 teaspoon finely minced ginger

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 tablespoon sesame oil

fresh ground pepper

Directions:

Put approximately 1 inch of water in a 12-inch skillet and bring water to a boil.
Put 2 inches of water and several large cups of ice cubes into a large bowl. Set aside.
Clean asparagus; break off the ends and rinse in cold water.
Put all marinade ingredients in a small bowl and wisk together until well mixed. Set aside.
Place asparagus in boiling water and let them cook for 2-4 minutes. Asparagus should be crisp (do not over cook!).
After cooking asparagus for 2-4 minutes, immediately drain the hot water and rinse asparagus under cold water.
Transfer the asparagus from skillet to the bowl with water & ice and let the asparagus cool for 10-15 minutes.
Remove the asparagus from ice water and gently wrap in paper towels to remove as much water as possible.
Place asparagus in serving dish and pour marinade over asparagus and gently toss.
Serve within 30 minutes.

Thank you, KAT, for sharing your story and recipe with us.

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Kat will give away a copy (paperback, Kindle or Nook…winner’s choice, US ONLY) of AGAINST THE TIDE to one lucky reader who comments on today’s Karen’s Killer Fixin’s **Author Special** blog. Happy Reading!

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Published on February 18, 2016 23:10

February 17, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Two To Wrangle by Victoria Vane

TWO TO WRANGLE

Hotel Rodeo

BY VICTORIA VANE

Blurb

A COUNTRY BOY…Maybe having a hot and heavy affair with the boss’s daughter wasn’t the smartest move. But Ty Morgan didn’t regret a moment with city girl Monica Brandt…until she left Las Vegas to return to her life in New York. When devastating news sends her running back, Ty can’t help but open his arms. His heart, however, is another matter.

AND A CITY GIRL…Now that Ty has what he’s always wanted—controlling interest in Hotel Rodeo—Monica is certain their time together is at an end—until Ty asks her to come on board as a partner. Maybe it’s just her money he needs, but the chance to stick close to the sexy wrangler sure could make work a whole lot more interesting.

GET READY TO TANGO.. Their partnership doesn’t come without a heap of problems. The two can’t agree on anything—except their iron-hot attraction. As the hotel’s grand opening approaches, the truth is all too clear: Ty and Monica must find a way to mix business with pleasure if they have any shot at dancing off into the sunset together…

TWO TO WRANGLE

Hotel Rodeo

BY VICTORIA VANE

“You’re welcome, Ty,” Monica replied tightly as they exited the hotel.

“I know you meant well, but that was emasculating as hell.”

“For you or for him?” she asked with a laugh. “You came out the clear winner.”

“That’s not the point. I didn’t want or need your interference, Monica,” he grumbled. “I can handle arrogant assholes like that. Been doing it my whole life.”

“So what did you expect me to do? Stand there and let him insult you? The way you two were eyeballing each other, I was beginning to think I might see some blood.”

“I doubt it would have come to that,” he said.

“So it was all just ridiculous male posturing?”

“Pretty much,” he confessed.

“He really does have more money and influence than you, Ty,” Monica said. “He made Forbes Top 100 mogul list just last year. There’s no way you could ever top him in anything related to business, but you are in fact much better endowed. That shut him right down, didn’t it?”

“Sure did. He may never get it up again.” He signaled the limo. “I miss my damned truck.”

“Where are we going?” she asked.

“To the LINQ,” he answered and then murmured something to Frankie before handing her into the car. “I have to say Evan’s presence probably saved the evening.”

“Saved it? How?”

“We might not have even got out the door tonight if he hadn’t been there.”

“Why’s that?” she asked.

“That dress, Monica. All I can think of is peeling it off you—with my teeth.”

“Funny you should say that, I was having similar thoughts about you.”

“Oh yeah?” he rubbed his smooth shaven chin.

“Most definitely,” she purred. “I’ve always had a major thing about power suits. It’s one of the reasons I was so confused about my attraction to you. You don’t exactly dress to impress, Ty. I once tried to picture you in a suit like this, but I have to admit, my imagination didn’t even come close to doing you justice.”

He grinned. “I look that good, huh?”

“Oh yeah, cowboy. If I could move in this dress, I’d straddle you right now.”

“Don’t let that stand in your way, Sugar,” Ty said. “Dresses are real easy to work around.”

“But I thought you said we had some kind of schedule to keep?”

“We do, so I guess I’ll have to ask you to save that item for later. I think we can manage to work it into the agenda. I’ll prioritize it.”

Meet the Author, Victoria Vane …

Victoria Vane is a #1 bestselling award-winning author of smart and sexy romance. Her works range from comedic romps to emotionally compelling erotic romance and have received over twenty awards and nominations including: a 2015 Red Carpet Finalist for Best Contemporary romance (Slow Hand), 2014 RONE Winner for Best Historical Post Medieval Romance (Treacherous Temptations), and Library Journal Best Ebook Romance of 2012 (The Devil DeVere series). Victoria also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee. She currently resides in Palm Coast, Florida with her husband, two sons, a little black dog, and an Arabian horse.

~~~

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

BUY LINKS:

Amazon: Two to Wrangle (Hotel Rodeo)

B&N, Google Play, Kobo

Email: victoria.vane@hotmail.com

Website: www.victoriavane.com

Blog: www.embracingromance.com

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/YVeXrf

Twitter: @authorvictoriav

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1vONQZh

Amazon: http://amzn.to/10QMKT5

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1sccsM4

YOUTUBE: http://bit.ly/1yNtEMP

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Published on February 17, 2016 23:05

February 16, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Alone With You by Michele Callahan

ALONE WITH YOU

Love You Like a Love Song, Book 2

BY MICHELE CALLAHAN

Blurb

Claire Miller fell in love with Jake in the third grade. Life was on the fast track to perfect when he finally moved her out of his ‘friend zone’ their senior year. But one hot night of reckless passion changed things between them forever. Jake rocked her world, but the two young lovers had plans for their lives, and neither she nor Jake were willing to bend. Knowing she could never be what he needs, she let him go, and has missed him every day since. That was seven years ago. Plenty of time for Jake to fall in love with someone new, get married, and move on.

Trouble is, he did none of those things. And now that she’s back in town, seeing him again stirs up all those old feelings. She’s only going to be around for a few weeks, and they both still want different things. No matter how much she wants to be with Jake, she can’t give up the life she’s worked so hard to build. But Jake just won’t be reasonable, and is relentless in his determination to get her back into his life, and his bed.

Jake Walker knew the first time he saw Claire, when he was eight years old, that he wanted to marry her. Neighbors and best friends, he spent a decade by her side, growing up and falling in love with the sweetest, smartest, most incredible girl he’d ever met. Everything was perfect, right up until the day she got on an airplane headed for California and never came home. At seventeen, he watched her walk away. But seven years later, the sight of her hits him like a punch to the gut. She’s more beautiful than ever, and every cell in his body demands that she is “The One.” Her kisses can’t lie, and he knows every time he touches her that the fire still blazes between them.

Lust. Desire. Passion. Jake and Claire can’t resist taking the ride, but nothing has changed. Sometimes, true love isn’t enough. Sometimes, the only thing that can make a stubborn heart face the truth is being left behind…

Alone With You is a scorching hot, contemporary, new adult romance of 55,000 words. The story contains explicit love scenes and offensive language and is intended for an adult audience. Don’t miss your chance to fall in love with the other Walker brothers in Crash and Burn (Jan 2016), Up All Night (Mar 2016) and Make Me Forget (April 2016). For more details visit Michele’s website at michelecallahan.com

ALONE WITH YOU

Love You Like a Love Song, Book 2

BY MICHELE CALLAHAN

Note from Michele: Jake and Claire have been in love since the 3rd grade. But life had other plans and they parted ways after senior year. Claire is back in town for the first time in seven long year. This time, Jake isn’t going to let her get away – and he’s willing to play dirty to win:

“Come on.” Jake pulled her along by the hand to the large, open kitchen. The island in the center was bare except for a knife block and built-in cutting board next to a stainless steel sink where they both washed their hands. The cabinets were a golden oak and the counters a swirl of brown, gray and yellow marble. The room was bright and cheery, just like Mrs. Walker had been.

Claire ran her hand along the smooth marble counter and smiled. “This was always my favorite room. It reminds me of your mom.” Jake’s mother had spent countless hours baking and scolding her boys in this room. The plain wooden table and chairs still held its place of honor on the far side of the kitchen next to a big bay window. Claire had spent many happy hours sitting next to Jake at that table doing homework, struggling with quadratic equations, or spearing helpless insects with needles for a science project.

“Me, too. She practically lived in here.” Jake smiled at her over the top of the coffee pot. He measured out a few heaping spoonfuls of ground coffee into the machine and turned it on. The sharp tang of coffee filled the air as he got two large mugs out of the cabinet. Claire kept her hands occupied by walking over to the pantry and grabbing the sugar. Once she set that down, she opened the drawer and selected two spoons.

She still knew where everything was. The silverware and the wineglasses. The spice rack and the baking sheets. “Everything is still in the same place.”

“Mom didn’t like change.”

Claire chuckled when she saw a stack of unopened mail was still kept in the same basket, on the same corner of the counter. “Neither do you.” He didn’t like change. Jake like comfortable old slippers, worn-out quilts. He didn’t like a new pair of boots until he’d worn them for at least six months, and he’d used the same deodorant and the same cologne since he was thirteen.

“That’s true.” Jake poured two cups of coffee and stepped close to hand one of them to her. “I don’t know how you take your coffee. You didn’t use to drink it.”

Trembling slightly, Claire took the cup and soaked in the warmth of being so close to him. Her toes were cold and the tile floor wasn’t helping her feet warm up. “I’ll do it. Thanks.”

As Jake watched every move, Claire measured two heaping teaspoons of sugar into her mug and topped it off with the half and half Jake handed to her when he was finished with it. She held up the sugar dispenser, but he shook his head.

“No thanks. I’m already sweet enough.”

Claire took a sip of her own coffee and sighed with bliss. Hot coffee. Jake’s kitchen. Jake. This felt like home again, like old times, at least for the moment.

“Come on.” Jake tilted his head toward the family room and Claire followed him into the homey space she knew almost as well as her own home.

Two large couches sat opposite each other with a rectangular table between them. A large fireplace took up half the wall at one end of the room, and a giant television hung from the wall on the other side. Southwestern-style blankets had been hung over the couch backs and the room was decorated with horses in all forms, small statues, hanging on the walls, and woven into the area rug that covered the floor.

In the center of the table stood a lone, empty soda bottle.

“Is that…?” Holy shit. Had he kept it?

“Yes.”

“Oh, no.” Claire took a step back, but too late. Jake closed the double glass doors behind her, shutting them in the room. The windows were hung with one-way sheers and the glass doors were covered with blinds. They would be completely alone. Even if any of his crew came into the house from outside, they wouldn’t be able to get in. Claire knew, because she’d given Jake her virginity on that rug seven years ago.

And just like that night, so long ago, Jake clicked the lock on the door, throwing Claire’s mind into a flashback. Hot bodies writhing on the floor in front of the fireplace. Jake covering her body, taking her innocence as she took his, both of them too overcome with emotion to talk. She closed her eyes to block out the image of the fireplace, but that was the wrong thing to do. The room smelled like leather and…him.

“This was a bad idea.” Claire’s voice rang with panic and there wasn’t a thing she could do about it. Alone. With Jake.

Jake froze. “So, is that your answer? No?”

Claire walked to the couch and sat down. She put her coffee cup on the table, right next to that long-necked soda bottle that had helped her give herself to Jake all those years ago. She stared at the glass bottle for a minute. She still wanted Jake. She’d known being with him was going to hurt. But now, it was time to adjust and get things moving. She could either sit here reminiscing about the past and everything she’d lost…or she could spin that bottle and get Jake naked.

She reached over and laid the bottle down onto its side. With a flick of her wrist she sent it spinning in a perfect circle. “Sit down, Jake.”

“You still remember the rules?” Jake abandoned his post at the door and sank down next to her on the couch, just like the last time.

“West side of the table is me, east side is you.” When the bottle stopped spinning, it was pointing right at her and she actually closed her eyes in anticipation as Jake whispered the question that had cause her heart all the trouble she could handle. Just three words. They weren’t I love you, but these three words were very powerful, and much more dangerous at the moment.

“Truth or dare?”

Meet the Author, Michele Callahan …

M.L. (Michele) Callahan is a sci-fi fanatic and full time writer whose earliest movie memories are of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and light sabers. (Still waiting on Santa to come through on that one.) ML writes sci-fi action adventure as ML Callahan, and contemporary, sci-fi and paranormal romance as Michele Callahan.

~~~

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

Amazon:

Alone With You (Love You Like A Love Song Book 2)

Alone With You – Apple: https://goo.gl/dcgril

Website: michelecallahan.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/michele.callahan.142

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/michelecallahan

SIGN UP FOR ML/MICHELE’S MAILING LISTS FOR LATEST NEWS!

Just copy and paste the following link into your web browser: http://goo.gl/ZS8A6h

~~~

**SPECIAL GIVEAWAY**: Michele will give away signed paperback copies (US. ONLY) of the first two books, CRASH AND BURN and ALONE WITH YOU, to one lucky reader who comments on today’s **Author Peek** Interview or Karen’s Killer Book Bench blog on Wednesday. Thank you, Michele, for sharing your stories with us.

Don’t miss the chance to read this book!

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Published on February 16, 2016 23:05

February 15, 2016

Karen’s Killer Book Bench: Kiss Me in Christmas by Debbie Mason

~~

KISS ME IN CHRISTMAS

Christmas, Colorado #6

BY DEBBIE MASON

Blurb

It’s always been you

Actress Chloe O’Connor has become America’s sweetheart, but back in little Christmas, Colorado, she’s still remembered as a shy, awkward schoolgirl. And there’s no one she dreads (and secretly wants) to see more than her high school crush, Easton McBride. Just one look from the former star quarterback and it’s like she’s instantly transformed from daytime drama queen to tongue-tied teenager. She’s kissed Hollywood actors and famous cover models, so she can certainly play it cool while turning up the heat, right?

After an injury ended his military career, Easton McBride built a good life in the rugged countryside of his hometown. And the last thing he needs is his quiet solitude shattered by a high-maintenance temptress who isn’t anything like the sweet Chloe he misses. While he enjoys the flirtation with this new bold and beautiful woman, he can’t help but wonder whether a kiss could have the power to bring back the small-town girl he’s grown to love.

KISS ME IN CHRISTMAS

Christmas, Colorado #6

BY DEBBIE MASON

EXCERPT

Huh. Easton was kind of surprised Chloe didn’t throw him under the bus. And that made him feel guiltier for the way he’d treated her. Because while she might be a spoiled pain in the ass, he knew she could also be sweet, compassionate, and kind. There was a time, years earlier, that he’d been on the receiving end of her sweetness. Right before she’d played him and ruined his relationship with her sister.

“You’ve never had allergies before . . .” Liz trailed off as she searched her daughter’s face. “Do you have any other symptoms? Tightness in your chest, swelling of your lips and tongue?”

Oh, Jesus, no, she did not just put out the spectre of anaphylactic shock to Chloe. Then again, he supposed he shouldn’t be surprised that she did. Liz had been angsting over Chloe’s health since they brought her home from the hospital with a hole in her heart. If she could have put her little girl in a protective bubble, she probably would have. Something he could relate to. His father was as much a worrier as Liz. But there was one big difference; Easton and his brothers weren’t hypochondriacs. Chloe was. And now her mother had most likely ensured there would be a scene like the one he’d hoped to avoid. Unless . . .

He moved away from the door, shutting it behind him. “She’s fine, Liz.” He put his arm around Chloe and gave her a squeeze. “Aren’t you?”

“I don’t know. I am having a hard time swallowing.” She rubbed her throat as though pushing a football down her long, graceful neck, then smacked her coral lips together a couple of times. “My lips feel tingly. Is my tongue swollen?” At least that’s what he thought she said. It was kind of hard to make out since she stuck her tongue out at the same time she asked.

“Chloe, you’re not allergic to the cat. You–” Easton was working his way to an apology, but she cut him off.

“Are you sure? It feels really thick.”

“Put your tongue back in your mouth. You were crying because I hurt your feelings, not because you’ve developed a sudden allergy to Fluffy.”

Meet the Author, Debbie Mason …

Debbie Mason is the USA Today bestselling author of the Christmas, Colorado series. Her books have been praised for their “likable characters, clever dialogue and juicy plots” (RT Book Reviews). She also writes historical paranormals as Debbie Mazzuca. Her MacLeod series has received several nominations for best paranormal as well as a Holt Medallion Award of Merit. When she isn’t writing or reading, Debbie enjoys spending time with her very own real-life hero, their four wonderful children, an adorable grandbaby, and a yappy Yorkie named Bella.

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

Link to Follow Tour:

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/11/kiss-me-in-christmas-christmas-colorado.html

Goodreads Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25711909-kiss-me-in-christmas

Goodreads Series Link:

https://www.goodreads.com/series/114924-christmas-colorado

Author Links:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Amazon:

Kiss Me in Christmas (Christmas, Colorado)