R.E. Hargrave's Blog, page 116
January 13, 2021
BOOK BLITZ: Hard Code by Misha Bell #GIVEAWAY
Hard Code
Misha Bell
Publication date: January 12th 2021
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance
My new assignment at work: test out toys. Yup, that kind.
Well, technically, it’s to test the app that controls the toys remotely.
One problem? The showgirl who’s supposed to test the hardware (as in, the actual toys) joins a nunnery.
Another problem? This project is important to my Russian boss, the broody, mouthwateringly sexy Vlad, a.k.a. The Impaler.
There’s only one solution: test both the software and the hardware myself… with his help.
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—
EXCERPT:
Chapter One
“You hired a hooker to test a bunch of sex toys?”
“Use your inside voice!” I hiss at Ava, my face burning as I scan the other Starbucks patrons waiting in line with us. Most have headphones plugged into their ears and are lost inside their phones, but still. What if someone overhears?
She grins mischievously and lowers her voice to the closest thing to a whisper she’s capable of. “Only if you spill all the gory details.”
“Fine. First and foremost, Dominika is not a hooker. She’s a showgirl.”
“Wait.” Ava’s amber eyes glint impishly. “Is this the ‘showgirl’ from the strip club Voldemort dragged you to in Prague? The one who violated the nuns on stage?”
“She was playing the role of a succubus. They weren’t real nuns.”
Her reminder of He Who Must Not Be Named—a.k.a. my ex—only increases my discomfort. I went to that club to prove to Bob that I wasn’t a prude, but he broke up with me anyway.
Ava knows me well, which is why she launches into something guaranteed to distract me. Raising her voice an octave, she says, “I’m surprised the Rockettes aren’t putting on a show like that for Christmas. One of them could penetrate a faux nun with a strap-on, another with a fist—”
“Hush!” My cheeks are hot enough to make an omelet on them. “I needed someone with experience using sex toys, so I hired her, okay?”
“Uh-huh.” Ava steps forward as the line moves. “For your new QA project.”
I cast another furtive glance around us. “Like I said, I’m testing an app for a teledildonics company.”
“Teledildonics,” she repeats, savoring the word. “The prefix tele refers to long distance; the suffix onics means pertaining to, and the root is dildo… as in the thing I’ve been convincing you to try.” Her voice grows louder. “Are we talking about long-distance dildos?”
As I cringe, I make a mental vow: I will get her back for this. She will rue this day.
“Precisely.” I’m proud of how even my voice is. “The app I’ll be testing lets one user control a device being utilized by another user over the internet.”
“Sure. Sure.” She makes her face look serious. “To put that in layman’s terms: a dildo will go into Dominika in Prague, and you will make her come with the app from New York.”
At this point, it’s not just my treacherous cheeks that are red—my ears are too. “It’s called end-to-end testing. It needs to be as close to the way the product is going to be used in the real world as possible.”
“Or rear-end testing.” She waggles her eyebrows suggestively. When I pointedly turn my back to her, she laughs and says, “Isn’t that basically having sex with Dominika? After paying her? How is she not a hooker then?”
The reality is actually worse. Dominika and her boyfriend will be participating in the testing, but I’m not telling Ava this now. Or maybe ever. “Fine. She’s not just a showgirl. Happy now?”
“Hey.” She finally lowers her voice. “I have nothing against the world’s oldest profession. If I hadn’t already wasted years on medical school, and if all the johns were hot and STDs didn’t exist, I’d sign up. At least if it paid well and I wasn’t dating anyone. Especially if I was as orgasm-deprived as you. Come to think of it—”
Thankfully, it’s our turn to order now. She gets enough caffeine to send a rhino bouncing off the walls, and I request my venti chamomile tea in the hopes of calming down before the meeting I’ve been dreading.
We step aside to wait for our drinks, and Ava grins like the Grinch. “So, back to teledildonics.”
Before I can shush her again, he comes in.
I forget what I was about to say. I forget to breathe.
Carved features that remind me equally of Greek gods and angels, eyes the deep blue hue of a lapis lazuli stone, framed by stylish horn-rimmed glasses. Lips that beg to be kissed. Shaggy jet-black hair, with a stray strand that falls in the middle of his face and just begs me to walk over and brush it back—which I’d have to reach high to do because he’s at least a foot taller than me. Despite the warm weather, he’s dressed in a black trench coat with a black shirt underneath, an outfit that accentuates the powerful breadth of his shoulders and—
“Earth to Fanny.” Ava’s voice intrudes into my oxytocin-addled brain.
I spin around before she realizes I was checking out Hottie McDark. Knowing her, she’d push me at him, or nag me into starting a conversation, or do a million other things that would embarrass me straight into a panic attack.
Someone like me and a guy that hot do not mix.
Before she can resume pestering me about teledildonics within possible earshot ofHottie McDark, I preemptively jam my hand into my pocket and pull out one of my most treasured possessions—my phone, a.k.a. Precious. “You have to see the app I created,” I tell Ava and steal a glance behind me.
Did Hottie McDark’s eyebrows lift at the mention of an app?
Nah. Nor, despite appearances, is he looking at me right now. He’s probably studying the menu board directly behind me.
“Okay…” Ava sounds as enthusiastic as I do when she shares a horribly gross story about her residency in the ER. “It lets you cartoon yourself, right?”
“Nope.” I bring up the app and stare proudly at the crisp user interface that I toiled over for months. “It tells you which cartoon character you most resemble.”
“Potato potahto. But I’ll bite. Who do I look like?”
Feeling a little naughty, I position her just right and snap an image with the app. Except I aim the camera at Hottie McDark instead of Ava—and the app promptly brings up a cartoon character: Clark Kent from Superman, the animated series.
I can see that. That strand of hair, the glasses, and the chiseled features do match. The evil genius of this move is that the app also stores the original photo, so I could, should I wish, backward search from the image to, say, his social media profile.
Assuming I wanted to become a stalker, that is.
Before Ava catches on, I aim the camera at her and snap another pic.
“You’re Belle.” I show her the doe-eyed, brown-haired image on the phone. “From Beauty and the Beast.”
“Tale as old as time,” she singsongs. “I guess that’s a compliment. Can I do you?”
“Be our guest.” I thrust the phone into her hands, mostly because I want to see if she can figure out how to use the app without my help.
To my great relief, she figures it out on the fly. This isn’t as good as a grandmother test, but close. I had to teach Ava how to program her universal remote control.
When the app gives her the result, she chuckles. “Snow White. Is it always a Disney Princess?”
“Not always.”
“I bet it’s your easy-to-blush pale cheeks.” She examines me closely. “Or the round face.”
I sneak another peek at Hottie McDark. “I’m just glad it’s not one of the seven dwarves.”
“Oh yeah, put a beard on you, and you’d be a dead ringer for Bashful.”
I cringe. Her voice is the loudest it’s been yet; the guy would have to be deaf not to notice us at this point. “Please keep it down.”
“Sorry.” She hands me my phone back. “Are you going to make any money on this app?”
I glance at the time to make sure I’m not running late before I pocket Precious. “The app is free. I even made it opensource, so anyone can take and use my code however they wish.”
“Is it for that promotion you want, then?”
I shrug. “Not a promotion, a lateral move. The app was to prove to myself that I have what it takes to be a developer. Now I just need to make the people at work believe in me too, or at least value me enough to give me a chance to switch departments.”
In the corner of my eye, I see Hottie McDark placing his order, which means if we don’t get our drinks soon, he’ll be standing close enough for me to smell him.
Or touch.
Or—
“And this smart sex toys project will help?” Ava asks, again speaking too loudly for my comfort.
“Our company owner himself wrote the app. That makes the testing as high profile as it gets.” I strain to hear what the guy is ordering but only make out the word tea—and it’s nice to know there’s another sucker out there willing to pay a huge premium for a bag of dried leaves.
“And said owner is the infamous Vlad the Impaler, right?” She says the name with relish.
“That’s what the rumor mill at the office calls him. I’m sure he’s Mr. Vladimir Chortsky to his face.”
“Or Master,” she says in her best Renfield voice. “And you’re meeting him today? Shouldn’t there be garlic around your neck, or a cross inside your panties?”
I chuckle nervously. “They do say he never sleeps. Or at least he answers emails at any time, day or night.”
Ava makes a swoony face. “Does he glitter?”
“I’ll find out today.” Hottie McDark is now walking our way, so it takes everything I have to keep my cool. “I checked out his code for this app, and it was very elegant and inventive—appropriate for a centuries-old creature of the night. My boss, Sandra, also told me that when he writes something, he doesn’t work with the development team, yet the resulting apps never have any bugs—”
“How not thrilling.” Ava exaggeratingly yawns. “What I want to know is: Has he impaled any female employees?”
Sensual notes of tangerine and bergamot waft into my nostrils.
Someone’s tea or Hottie McDark’s cologne? He’s now right next to me, so close that I don’t dare look at him lest I melt into a puddle. My heart hammers unevenly, and I can feel a new wave of hot color washing into my cheeks.
“Fanny. Ava.” The barista slams our drinks on the counter.
Perfect. Before Ava can further embarrass me in front of Hottie McDark, I snatch my drink, thrust hers into her hand, and drag her out of the Starbucks by her elbow.
“I have to go to work,” I say when we get outside. Right away, the deafening honking of taxis fills my ears. We’re across the street from Battery Park, with the Statue of Liberty visible in the distance.
Ava pecks me on the cheek. “Good luck. And if the Impaler turns you into a vampire, you must do the same to me as soon as you can. I can steal us blood bags from the hospital.”
I sneak a final longing glance at Hottie McDark through the tinted glass. “You better be on your best behavior, or I’ll just make you my blood whore instead.”
She laughs as she walks away, and I sprint to the nearby skyscraper and ride the elevator to my company’s floor.
Exiting, I survey my surroundings. Binary Birch, the plaque on the wall states in a very serious-looking font. The cold utilitarian nature of the modern décor hasn’t changed since I was here for my in-person interviews a few months back. No game rooms or sleeping nooks like they might have at other, hipper software companies—not with the Impaler at the helm.
The people around me are mostly strangers. The company policy is that everyone has the option of working remotely if they wish, so I’ve been working from home and communicating with the office via email, instant messenger, and occasionally, a teleconferencing app.
I pull out Precious and check the time. Ten minutes until I have to brave the Impaler’s office.
Sipping my tea, I jump on the Wi-Fi and check my messages.
Sandra, the QA manager and my direct boss, wants to see me if I have the time.
I head into the maze of cubicles. Since she’s one of the few people I know by sight, I locate her quickly and knock on the glass wall of her cube.
“Hi, Sandra,” I say when she tears her gaze from her screen.
“Oh, hey, Fanny. There you are.” With a prim smile, she stands up and leads us to a small meeting room.
“So,” she says, not meeting my gaze as we sit down across from each other. “I just wanted to double check… You’re okay with the eccentric testing project you’re about to undertake, right?”
“I am,” I state as confidently as I can fake it.
I know why she keeps asking. The last thing the company wants is for me to file a sexual harassment suit over this, or for me to say that I’m not cool with it when I speak to the Impaler, thus making her, my manager, look like an idiot.
“I’m glad,” she says, and we quickly go over the project I’ve just finished testing, an app that works with a wristband fitness tracker.
She smiles when I tell her that I even lost a few pounds thanks to all the walking to test the pedometer functionality.
Then it’s time for the meeting I’ve been dreading, and Sandra leads me to the only non-glass-walled office on the floor.
According to some jokes, the Impaler doesn’t like the light, and according to others, he needs the privacy to make his kills in peace.
“Want me to take that?” Sandra asks, worriedly eyeing my almost empty cup.
“No drinks allowed in there?” I ask.
She darts a nervous glance at the door. “I better take it.”
As I hand her the cup, my previously steady hand begins to tremble.
How scary can our glorious leader be?
“Keep me in the loop.” Sandra opens the door for me.
Feeling like a lamb going to the proverbial slaughter, I shuffle into the Impaler’s lair—and before I can catch sight of the man himself, my manager helpfully closes the door behind me, like a vampire’s minion springing a trap.
Soft music is vibrating the airwaves in here. In the Hall of the Mountain King byEdvard Grieg—a fitting melody to get exsanguinated to.
I catch a whiff of tangerine and bergamot, and my stomach drops.
Can’t be.
I turn around.
Illuminated by the bluish light of a large monitor is the gorgeous face of the stranger I was just drooling over at Starbucks.
Even his tea is here, on his spotlessly clean desk.
“Hello, Ms. Pack,” Vlad the Impaler says with a slight Transylvanian accent. “Good to finally meet you.”
Author Bio:
I love writing humor (often the inappropriate kind), happy endings (both kinds), and characters quirky enough to be called oddballs (because... balls). If you love your romance heavy on the comedy and feel-good vibes, visit mishabell.com and sign up for my newsletter.
Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram
GIVEAWAY!
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BOXSET BLITZ: Happily Ever After: A Contemporary Romance Boxed Set #GIVEAWAY
Happily Ever After: A Contemporary Romance Boxed Set
Publication date: January 12th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
These heroes and heroines are lost without each other … but obstacles stand in their way.
Inside the pages of this steamy, limited edition boxed set created for you by your favorite romance authors, you’ll find sexy, funny, heartwarming, and red hot romance reads, where characters navigate their love through all the twists, turns, and ups and downs required to reach a happily ever after.
Which passionate romance will be your favorite? The enemies turned to trusted lovers or the rock stars who know exactly what they want? Best friends who wish they could be more, forbidden love, or second chance at forever?
No matter what you love – enemies to lovers, second chance romance, a forbidden tale, vacation fling, opposites attract, comedy, or contemporary romance – every story in this limited edition boxed will deliver the satisfying end you crave.
One-click now to discover your new favorite ending with twenty-one happily ever afters guaranteed.
Fans of Abbi Glines, Jill Shalvis, and Lauren Landish will swoon for Happily Ever After.
Authors included in this set are:Piper Rayne, Erin Lee, Mandy Melanson & Elle Ryan, Sophia Henry, Lena Bourne, Selene Drake, Joanne Dannon & Faith Summers, Mallory Fox, Kathryn C. Kelly, Dakota Davies, Evie Wilde, D. R. Love, Mckenna James, Debra Elise, Heather Wynter, Mary E Thompson, Ann C. Orlandi & Riley James, Marie Skye, Olivia Marie, Maria Ann Green, and Aria Rae Blossom
—
SNEAK PEEKS:
My Twist of Fortune (The Greene Family #0.5) by Piper Rayne
Driving up their long driveway through the forest of trees, I realize the worst part about my parents’ remote location is that if someone stops by to see me, I can’t just keep driving until they leave. I’m stuck.
So as my van pulls up to the house and a dark gray truck comes into view, I curse to myself. I already know who it is and my stomach sinks. I calculate my chances of pulling down the driveway and acting as though I didn’t see him, but that’s shot to hell when the driver’s side door opens.
I say one last prayer that Hank has apprentices working under him and it’s one of them in the truck. He must have employees. I’m sure he wouldn’t be too keen on seeing me either.
But just like every other facet of my life lately, this situation doesn’t go my way either. Two long legs attached to work boots hit the pavement as Hank unfolds himself from the truck. He’s bigger than I remember. Taller, broader. There’s scruff along his face that’s darker than his honey-blond hair, which is longer than I’ve ever seen it, as if it’s weeks past a haircut but not so unruly he looks unkempt.
Just like all my friends in Arizona thought all men in Alaska looked like, he’s wearing a flannel shirt, jeans, and brown work boots. He pushes his sunglasses up to rest on top of his head and offers me a wave.
I can only smile. Nausea hits my stomach as I turn off the ignition and slide out of my minivan.
“You didn’t have to come,” I say immediately.
He side-glances me, getting something out of his truck. “Your mom called me this morning.”
“I’m sorry. I told my dad I would get someone else. I’m not even sure…”
He pulls a toolbox out of the back and looks at me. His gaze slithers across my body side to side, up and down, and when his gaze meets mine, the hazel eyes that would pierce me from across the room in high school make me want to sigh. Hank Greene.
“Hey,” he says in an easy way. As if it hasn’t been twenty years since we saw one another face to face.
“Hi.”
He nods. “Welcome back.”
I fidget with my hands and balk when I look down at my feet. I have on my mom’s flowery rain boots, my dad’s too-big flannel pants, and oh my God. I cross my arms over my chest. His chuckle says he wondered when I would figure out how I look.
—
Falling for my Fling by Dakota Davies
“You going to the carnival tomorrow?” I ask.
She grins. “I heard that I’ll have the opportunity to dunk you in the dunk tank.”
“Would you like that?” I ask, the energy inside me surging to life.
She cocks her head in a way that makes her silver earrings flash with light. It’s so sexy that I have to hold in my groan.
“I would,” she says, her eyes sparkling.
“There’s a pie eating contest too. You up for a challenge?” I say, practically vibrating right off the roof because pie and eatingcombined with her scent and the way her body warms the space between us is putting all kinds of dirty thoughts in my head.
“Sounds messy,” she says. The spark in her eyes is still there, but there’s something else there, too, something serious. It’s like looking into the depths of a churning hole, knowing that if you get sucked in, you may never come out.
“It can be,” I reply as the sparks zip between us. “If you do it right.”
Her breath catches, and suddenly, I don’t care about the consequences.
I need to kiss this girl.
Now.
GIVEAWAY!
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January 12, 2021
#RachelReviews: Brigham Vaughn, TS Arthur, & Jennifer Lassalle Edwards
BULLY & EXIT by BRIGHAM VAUGHN
Second Edition Released June 2020; 296 pages
AUDIO BOOK: Narrated by James Edward Jones
It's time to leave college and the closet behind.
Nathan Rhodes has put hockey first for most of his life, but as graduation looms, he has a different goal in mind. He needs to come out and reclaim his first love. If only Caleb will believe him...
Theater geek Caleb Stockwell gave up on love when his boyfriend chose the closet over being with an openly bisexual guy. Now, he hides his heartbreak behind a string of casual hookups. He loves the drama on stage, but he’s done with the drama of Nathan Rhodes. For good.
Nathan is determined to right the wrongs of four years ago, but the clock is ticking.
One month until he and Caleb go their separate ways. One month to take a final shot at winning Caleb's heart back.
Win or lose, everything is on the line.
MY THOUGHTS:
A real life love story
Reviewed in the United States on January 11, 2021
Verified Purchase
A great story of two guys navigating society and themselves to find love. The main plot is fabulous, but I quite enjoyed the entire "world" Brigham created along with her vivid array of characters. Off to get book 2 because I HAVE to read Lowell's story... adore him!
FOUND BY DREW by TS ARTHUR
Released November 2020; 176 pages
Lia Hayes has never had much luck with men, but she’s had her heart broken for the last time. After piecing herself back together, she’s swearing off men. For good. At least she was until she met Drew Swan.
When a girls holiday throws Drew in her path, it’s make or break for her damaged heart. His perfect smile and caring ways tick all the boxes, but can she get past her hurt and let love in again?
Found by Drew is the first in the Puddles of Love series.
MY THOUGHTS:
Great debut romanceReviewed in the United States on December 16, 2020Verified Purchase
An enjoyable read, I devoured Found by Drew in one day. Romance, cheek, a few good one-liners, and a dash of schmexy all come together for a delightful tale of young love and innocent misunderstandings.
by JENNIFER LASSALLE EDWARDS
Released May 2019; 25 pages
When Elodie becomes stuck in a snow storm in a secluded cabin, strange occurrences begin. She's not sure what's real or not, but one thing becomes sure. Dreams are the magic that saves us all.
A short story of magic, fairy tale, and dreams.
MY THOUGHTS:
Perfect weekend readReviewed in the United States on December 27, 2020Verified Purchase
A quick afternoon read, this little tale of wonder will make you smile... and believe in the magic of the season.
BOOK BLITZ: Restless by Kaylene Winter #GIVEAWAY
Restless
Kaylene Winter
(Less Than Zero Rockstar Romance, #0.5)
Publication date: January 15th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
My mistakes nearly cost me everything, including my life.
Carter Pope is a rock superstar on the rise.His band Limelight catapulted him into a world of fame and excess.Meeting his soulmate was not in his plan.Neither was having a son at age 19.When he succumbs to a crippling addiction?It’s all gone in an instant.Now he’ll do anything to redeem himself and reclaim his family.I got off the merry-go-round to protect my son.
Stunning prima ballerina Lianne Rocks is taking the ballet world by storm.Coveted, worshipped, she has her pick of suitors.But she only has eyes for one man.Guitar superhero, Carter Pope.Caught up in a merry-go-round of addiction and fame.She leaves to create a stable life for herself and Zane.Her son, the musical prodigy who really needs his dad.
When Carter gets clean, Lianne reluctantly lets him back into their lives.Only so he can reconnect with his son.Little did she know.A restless soul can always be tamed by true love.
—
EXCERPT:
Prologue
CARTER
Present Day
History never repeats itself.
That’s a motherfucking lie.
It’s also the motherfucking truth.
It all depends on your perspective.
“Holy shit, Carter. It’s like déjà vu.” My best friend Gus Reynolds stood next to me, slack-jawed. “It’s like seeing you play here for the first time all those years ago.”
Gus owned The Mission, Seattle’s most enduring and iconic live music venue. We were watching my son Zane shred through one of the most intricate yet nuanced guitar solos I’d ever heard. Lost in the music, his face contorted with each note. Expressions mirroring the emotions he squeezed out of his instrument.
Bliss.
Rage.
Sorrow.
How I loved my son.
How I’d let him down.
Too many times to count.
Now, Zane’s band, Less Than Zero—or LTZ as they were more affectionately referred to—was poised to steal my band Limelight’s rock-and-roll crown. At least, if I had anything to say about it. “Yeah, they’re good,” I finally answered Gus. Little had changed in the twenty-plus years since Limelight had played the same sticky stage. The club was perpetually dank and dark and smelled of old beer and Pine-Sol.
My neutral observation masked my total and utter excitement. The kids on stage were poised for true greatness. I felt it in my bones. The energy throughout the club was electrified. Intense. Every single person here tonight knew they were witnessing something special.
My son’s mop of dark, unruly hair hid his infectious grin and dark-brown eyes while he bounced all over the stage. A natural performer, he engaged everyone in the crowd. Drew them in. He’d learned from the best—me, but somehow for him it was effortless. At an early age his mother Lianne and I realized he was a musical savant. Tonight, I was in awe, just as I had been from the day and hour he was born.
His other band members were spectacularly talented too. Lead singer Tyson Rainier had been Zane’s best friend from the time he’d moved back in with me at age sixteen. They’d bonded over their love of guitar, but Ty’s voice was like the second coming of Chris Cornell mixed with Geoff Tate and a little Johnny Cash in between. Ty was practically homeless when Zane first brought him over to our house. After hearing him sing just once, I took it upon myself to secretly ensure he had proper training. Like Zane, Ty was a musical unicorn, he’d deserved my investment.
Rounding out the band were bassist Conner McLoughlin and drummer Jace Deveraux, who played the Seattle college circuit for years. They also had my stamp of approval. Solid, hardworking and talented, the duo provided a steady backdrop to showcase the two virtuosos in the band.
Gus handed me a Diet Coke. “What did your management office say?”
“They’re in.” I took a sip, simultaneously wishing it were a beer and lamenting I’d never have a taste of the hoppy beverage ever again. “I’m having this show recorded to send over for final vetting. The social numbers are out of this world. There shouldn’t be a problem.”
A tiny, dark-haired pixie came up behind us. “Dad, let me settle the show on my own tonight. I won’t ever be able to take over this place if you don’t let me handle some of this stuff.”
“Fine, Fiona.” Gus booped his daughter on the nose, causing her to wrinkle it in protest. “If you want to fuck around with Zane’s ego, offer to settle up with Ty.”
I laughed. Fiona rolled her eyes and resumed her position behind the bar.
Zane had become the de facto business manager of the band. Ty was too shy, he really only came alive on stage. Connor was distracted by family stuff. Jace had his hands full with LTZ’s social media. Leaving my son, man of little attention span, to handle the money. Surprisingly, he took the job very seriously. And, like everything else he put his mind to, he knocked it out of the park.
He’d shit a brick to have Fiona in a room alone for ten minutes. She was a few months older, but they’d been playmates since they were born. Throughout high school and into adulthood, Zane had an unrequited crush on the gorgeous girl who was like a daughter to me. She’d been very careful not to lead him on, but he was determined to win her heart.
Luckily, I’d set up a six-month tour for the band. None of these guys needed the distraction of a girlfriend when their career was just getting started.
I was living proof.
LTZ started one of their newer songs, a slow, sultry groove. Ty stood at the front of the stage like he owned it, scanning the crowd. His duct-taped Doc Martin tapped the beat. His eyes fixated on something in the crowd and in an instant, his entire demeanor changed. Almost like he’d been struck by lightning. The expression on his face was dreamy when his eyes locked on someone close to the stage.
I made a move from the back of the club, wanting to see who caught Ty’s eye. Down in front were two young blonde girls, the shorter girl with loads of wild hair seemed to be the object of his fascination. She looked like a deer in headlights when Ty made eye contact with her. Ty was a very good-looking dude, which was another reason he made such a compelling front man. Many girls tried to get his attention, but his focus was on the band. Survival. Getting his life on track. He never took the bait.
Until now.
Moving stealthily closer, I dodged a couple of fans and kept an eye on Ty and the girl throughout the rest of the show. He couldn’t take his eyes off her. She couldn’t take her eyes off him, though she was more demure about it. After the show, I observed Ty approach her and have an awkward interaction. It didn’t surprise me, seeking out a young lady was unprecedented for LTZ’s singer. When he disappeared with her moments later?
Also unprecedented.
Unacceptable.
The last thing any of the guys in LTZ needed were distractions, especially Ty. Connor was already practically married, though I didn’t foresee that relationship lasting long. Jace had no interest in a girlfriend, only a good time. His crush on Fiona aside, my son was a horndog who’d never shown interest in a longer-term relationship.
Which was good.
Over the next few months, the guys were recording their first album then going on tour. With a distribution deal, my management team behind them and social media numbers that grew stronger every day?
LTZ was poised to be the biggest band out of Seattle since Limelight.
Fuck, yeah.
Even though I was barely past forty, I made the guys suffer through my endless old-man lectures about keeping their cocks wrapped up, so I wasn’t worried about mistakes or diseases. Tonight, I was more concerned about my pseudo-son Ty’s fragile heart. After the considerable personal currency—both financial and industry—I’d put into LTZ, there was no way I’d allow the band to be derailed by some girl trying to get her hooks into one of them.
I’d already been there and done that.
With disastrous results.
Motherfucking history would not repeat itself in this case.
Author Bio:
When she was only 15, Kaylene Winter wrote her first rocker romance novel starring a fictionalized version of herself, her friends and their gorgeous rocker boyfriends. After living her own rockstar life as a band manager, music promoter and mover and shaker in Seattle during the early 1990's, Kaylene became a digital media legal strategist helping bring movies, television and music online. Throughout her busy career, Kaylene lost herself in romance novels across all genres inspiring her to realize her life-long dream to be a published author. She lives in Seattle with her amazing husband and dog. She loves to travel, throw lavish dinner parties and support charitable causes supporting arts and animals.
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January 11, 2021
BOOK BLITZ: Submitting to Her Mate: Drake by BJ Wane #GIVEAWAY
Submitting to Her Mate: Drake
BJ Wane
(Cowboy Wolf Series, #3)
Publication date: December 23rd 2020
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense, Western
He swore he would never lose control again. Then she walked in the door.
Roz Kingman believes her ex in-laws threats, and that she is living on borrowed time when she relocates to Idaho. Intending to work off her bucket list while she can, she decides the surly rancher, Drake McCullough, is the perfect man to appease her kinky fantasies, and doesn’t let his obstinance deter her.
Drake’s tortured memories of escaping his two Taliban abusers keep him from getting involved in personal relationships other than his family. The moment he realizes the flirty brunette is his mate, he vows to protect them both by staying clear of her wiles, no matter how much he craves to make her his.
When separate vandalism incidents appear to be direct threats against Roz, there is no way Drake will refuse to protect her, no matter the risk his involvement may pose to losing his shaky control. Will succumbing to each other offer a chance for redemption and freedom, or will the gamble cost them both everything?
DISCLAIMER:
This steamy, contemporary Western romance contains explicit sexual scenes, and elements of mystery, suspense, and power exchange. Please do not buy this book if any of these offend you.
—
EXCERPT:
Unable to resist, Drake swung his gaze to Roz on the dance floor as Cody and Olivia joined them at the bar. She plastered those lush curves of hers against her partner, and it took every ounce of willpower to hold himself in check. But when she leaned up and drew the man’s head down to meet her lips, a dark wave of jealousy he couldn’t suppress propelled him to act.
“Hey, what’s up with you?” Cody snapped as he brushed by him without a word.
Ignoring his brother, and that inner voice cautioning him to think this through, he strode onto the dance floor, snatching Roz’s hand off the other man’s shoulder as she broke off their kiss. He shook with the effort to restrain himself, and to temper his tone as he addressed the man.
“Excuse us, please. I need a word with this patron.” Drake didn’t know him, but, from his quick nod and retreat, he guessed the other guy recognized him as one of the owners of the club. “Thank you.” At least acting civil hadn’t killed him.
Tipping his hat, her dance partner saidbefore walking away.
Drake’s throat tightened to quash the growl rumbling inside his chest, the other man’s suggestive tone riling him almost as much as Roz’s reckless behavior. Didn’t she know the risks involved with coming on to men at a bar? Even in the dim lighting, he could see the now familiar shadow of desperation in her eyes when she nodded and watched the other man walk away. Whatever demons were pushing her couldn’t be worse than putting her trust in the wrong person. Her rash conduct, and whatever was prompting it, worried him as much as the gamble he was about to take.
Drake couldn’t keep up this tug-of-war between them. His volatile, possessive reaction forced him to admit defeat. Praying he wasn’t making a colossal mistake in more ways than one, he ushered her toward the stairs leading to their private office and occasional play space.
“Where are you hauling me?”
Ignoring her disgruntled tone, he didn’t turn around as he crossed the crowded room with her in tow. “Upstairs.”
“Why? What are you going to do?”
The breathless catch in her voice drew him around as they reached the hall leading to the restrooms and back staircase. The light of expectation in her eyes hinted she was more interested in what he had planned than in where.
“Give you another lesson in what you think you want.”
Her face flushed, her lips quirking with the same spark of excitement lighting her eyes. “Oh, goody.”
I’m fucking screwed.
Author Bio:
Jessica lives in Adelaide, South Australia. When she is not writing, you can find her reading, napping or watching excessive amounts of TV. Connect with her on Facebook and Goodreads.Author of sizzling hot romance with a touch of suspense. Long and Short Reviews erotic romance of the month winner for Hannah and the Dom Next Door and gold star recipient for Amy's Redemption. I live in the Midwest with my husband, love dogs and enjoy reading and working puzzles. We have traveled extensively throughout the states, Canada and just once overseas, but I now much prefer being homebody. My favorite genre to read is suspense.Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Bookbub
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BOOK BLITZ: Safe by Jessica Frances #GIVEAWAY
Safe
Jessica Frances
(In Midsummer #5)
Publication date: January 8th 2021
Genres: Adult, LGBTQ+, Mystery, Romance
One big day. One missing groom. One answer. One life-changing event. One life-threatening disaster. Multiple targets.
Conner:
I never pictured myself getting married, but then I met Rocky and knew I found my perfect match. So, why are so many people determined to ruin our happiness? Why can’t we just have some peace and quiet? And why has Rocky disappeared on our wedding day?
Rocky:
I never thought I would get married again, but that was because I never knew what true love really was until Conner. I never had a true partner who was always there for me. And now I can’t wait to be married to him. I can’t wait to start the rest of our lives together. But, just like our entire relationship has had hurdles, why should this event run smoothly for us?
Between sabotage, grabby fans, exes, and an unwanted wedding planner, our wedding is looking more impossible by the minute. However, we’re both determined enough to get down that aisle and say I do. We will be married, and not even a crazed killer will stop us.
I hope. Hell, are we going to survive this wedding?
—
EXCERPT:
“Rocky.” Conner moves onto his knees and faces me, cupping my face. I instantly rest my hands on his hips to prevent him from losing his balance and painfully knocking our heads together. “I love you so much that anyone can come through that door and say they want me, and I won’t even think about the offer for a second. You’re the one I want now, the one I’ll always want. None of my exes even begin to come close to how amazing you are. Henry Prince is someone universally considered to be the full package and even he didn’t compare to you. You’re perfect to me, and I will never want anyone else. You believe that, right?” His tone is pleading, as is his gaze.
I do see what he’s saying. I know how truthful it is. And while I’ve always known Conner would never cheat on me and that he loves me, there is something that clicks into place for me. A final piece that solidifies that we’re so solid that nothing that comes at us during this wedding or after it is going to rock us.
I lean forward and rest our foreheads together, our noses brushing. Then I wrap my arms around him so he’s forced to rest his body over mine. “I believe you, Conner, and I love you so damn much. You’re all I want, too. I cannot wait to call you my husband. Let’s do this tomorrow.”
Conner snorts out a laugh, but when I don’t break into so much as a grin, his smile fades and he pulls back just as much as my arms around him will allow.
“You’re serious? Tomorrow?”
“Yes. I don’t want to wait any longer. And I don’t want the charade that June Fuller is planning to be our day. I want it to be on our own terms. I want you to myself. I don’t want to share you on our wedding day.”
“But … tomorrow is Wednesday!”
“You call Love and, under oath of secrecy, she can come. I’ll call Reed and Bell, and they can come, too. We’ll pull River out of school. Then Bell can take River back to hers, Love can take Ryder back to her parents’ for the night, and we have one night to ourselves.”
“What about work?”
“I’ll get Abby to cover for me. Or, hell, I’ll just call in sick. I’ve got hundreds of those days I’ve never used.”
Conner gasps, but I get the feeling it’s slightly mocking. “You didn’t even call in sick when you were shot!”
“Just marry me tomorrow,” I plead, knowing I can’t bear to wait any longer now that I put it out there.
Author Bio:
Jessica lives in Adelaide, South Australia. When she is not writing, you can find her reading, napping or watching excessive amounts of TV. Connect with her on Facebook and Goodreads.
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January 10, 2021
BOOK BLITZ: Witch Unexpected by Debbie Cassidy #GIVEAWAY
Witch Unexpected
Debbie Cassidy
(The Thirteenth Sign #1)
Publication date: December 29th 2020
Genres: Adult, Romance, Urban Fantasy
An ancient war, a tenuous truce, a delicate balance.
Sounds ominous right?
It is.
The tri-pack collective has existed for centuries—three dire wolf packs bound to the most powerful coven in the world through a single witch born under the thirteenth sign of the zodiac.
Through this covenant they keep an ancient threat unlike any other at bay.
At the next blood moon, I’ll be that witch—bound to the three leaders of the dire wolf packs. Responsible for keeping the peace.
That is If I make it to the blood moon alive, because someone is trying to kill me.
Now the hot-headed wolves are going to have to work together to make sure our inventive little murderer doesn’t succeed.
And me?
Well, I don’t take kindly to being targeted, so whoever’s gunning for me better watch out, because they just became the hunted.
An Urban Fantasy Romance filled with witches, shifters, warlocks, Gargoyles, Ghosts and Vampires.
—
Author Bio:
Debbie Cassidy lives in England, Bedfordshire, with her three kids and very supportive husband. Coffee and chocolate biscuits are her writing fuels of choice, and she is still working on getting that perfect tower of solitude built in her back garden. Obsessed with building new worlds and reading about them, she spends her spare time daydreaming and conversing with the characters in her head - in a totally non psychotic way of course. She writes Urban Fantasy, Fantasy and Reverse Harem Fantasy. All her books contain plenty of action, romance and twisty plots.
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January 9, 2021
BOOK BLITZ: Unplugged by Sigal Ehrlich #GIVEAWAY
Unplugged
Sigal Ehrlich
(Unplugged, #1)
Publication date: March 10th 2017
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
An against-all-odds & forbidden rockstar romance
After surviving the long and excruciating recruitment process, I thought I would end up working for Madonna or the CIA at the very least.Boy, was I wrong.Even in my wildest dreams I couldn’t have imagined what I was in for. What my heart was in for.
I couldn’t have possibly fathomed the lifestyle, the responsibility, how much it would take out of me, the inner battles, and mostly, the emotional whirlwind.I could never have imagined, prepared myself for, or anticipated…Him.
It was supposed to be a job. Just a temporary job. Just a few months. Just a short stop before the journey I was about to take to follow my dream.
It was supposed to be a lot of things…but not this.Little did I know it would be the one event that would shape me, would change me, would bring on such a shift in the balance of my world.Would bring…Him.
Would bring…
Them.Both.Into my life.*UNPLUGGED is the first part in a two-part series; it has a cliffhanger-ish ending.
—
NOW ON KINDLE UNLIMITED!
—
EXCERPT:
I hold one of the monstrous fridge doors open, taking inventory of the profusion of goods on display. I twitch my lips, moving them from side to side, as I muse what can best serve as a natural sedative. I stoop slightly forward for the carton and stop dead. More precisely, I find myself being stopped by an iron grip. Instinctively, I suck in a breath as a firm arm slides to wrap around my waist. A warm, hard body presses against me in tandem to someone’s lips nuzzling me right below my ear. A momentary stupor enfolds me as a few things register concurrently. The prickly feel of the scruff on my neck, and the smell hovering near that is a mixture of part masculine, part alcohol. Heavy alcohol. The most tantalizing fact, though, would have to be that the body pressed against my back is very much naked, as I can distinctively feel every part of the firm torso through my thin, cotton tee.
Still utterly startled, I chance a hesitant glance at the strong arm embracing me. Suntanned and large, it could be easily mistaken for a canvas crowded with colorful, detailed illustrations. The other hand, the one not holding me firmly, is another art creation in the form of a human limb extended toward the OJ carton.
“Open that for me, babe,” a raspy, low voice demands. And I do. The carton is lifted above my shoulder, and right after a pause, it is set in my stunned hand. Lightly moist, cold lips, bordered by a prickly beard, kiss my neck next. “Come back to bed, babe,” says the utterly seductive voice. A light smack on the butt jolts me, and I’m left by myself. My heart is beating in my ears, and my lips part in shock. I swallow hard and slowly turn to see who just groped-spanked me. There’s so much to take in. The lion’s head tattoo covering the right shin, the dark hair messily knotted, the toned arms, the musical notes tattooed on the left shoulder blade. But one thing calls for my full attention. A delectable, as in an award-winning, butt.
Author Bio:
Sigal Ehrlich is a bestselling author of refreshing, fun, and sweet romance books. She loves books, cold weather, and the occasional bubbly drink. Living as an expat for most of her life, Sigal has been lucky enough to visit many exotic places and meet some unique people from all corners of the world, while experiencing the sweet triumphs and travails of trying to acclimate to new "homes." Currently, Sigal calls the Czech Republic home where she lives with her husband and three kids.
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January 8, 2021
B@@K REVEAL: The Dark Throne by Amy Cissell #PreORDER
The Dark Throne
Amy Cissell
(An Eleanor Morgan Novel, #7)
Publication date: February 2nd 2021
Genres: Adult, Urban Fantasy
The Dark Throne is the dramatic conclusion to the Eleanor Morgan series, a contemporary fantasy from USA Today Bestselling Author Amy Cissell.
Eleanor Morgan has come a long way since she found out she’d been born to save the world by destroying it.
She’s opened the gates and restored the flow of magic between the Fae plane and Earth. She found her best friend’s sister and chased down an errant werewolf, all while dodging assassination attempts from her former friend and current nemesis. She even found time to fall in love along the way.
Now, it’s time to fulfill her destiny as the Dragon Queen and fight to take her place on the Dark Throne. But everything Eleanor has worked for is in danger of falling to ashes as the throne’s current occupant, the Raven Queen, unleashes her sinister plan to destroy her only real rival.
Eleanor stands with old friends and new as she fights to unite the Fae kingdoms…but will new secrets destroy her friendships and end her chance to fulfill her destiny? Will her bid for the throne be worth the price she’ll have to pay? Or will her quest meet a tragic end at the brutal hands of the Raven Queen?
THE DARK THRONE is the final book in a 7-book contemporary fantasy series by Amy Cissell, USA Today Bestselling Author of the Oracle Bay series.
Author Bio:
Amy Cissell is a USA Today Bestselling Author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance novels. She lives in Portland, OR with her husband, her haunted house-obsessed daughter, their four cats, and the murder of crows she's conspiring to turn into her vengeful army.
When she's not working or writing, she's sleeping because that's all she has time to do! There are few things Amy loves more than a well-timed pun, a good book, a glass of wine, and time at the Oregon Coast.
Although she reads anything and everything, her first love is fantasy. Eleven-year-old Amy discovered fantasy when she 'borrowed' her father's copy of The Hobbit and an enduring love affair (mostly with dragons) was born.
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BOOK BLITZ: Bossy Brothers: Luke by J.A. Huss #GIVEAWAY
Bossy Brothers: Luke
J.A. Huss
(Bossy Brothers, #7)
Publication date: January 5th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Two hot men seeking a fun, flirty girl with a sense of adventure. You in?
My life changed the day Zach Boston walked into it. And we’ve been inseparable best friends and lovers ever since. But he’s almost seven years younger than me and I remember all too well what my twenties were like – A new adventure every day, non-stop partying every night, and a new girl (or guy) whenever I got bored.
That’s why Zach and I always have a third.
Girls are how we’ve kept it fresh all year.
We’ve gone through dozens of them since we got serious and I’m not saying I don’t enjoy the dynamic of a threesome, because I do.
But when this cute girl with pink hair comes sailing into our lives and upends everything—I don’t know if we’ll survive it.
★★★★★Bossy Brothers: Luke is the final book in the Bossy Brothers series and features a sweet and sexy MMF ménage with two hot, committed men and a pink-haired gossip reporter desperate for a scoop. But when she stumbles into more secrets than she can handle, her boys need to call on all the Boston and Dumas brothers to keep her safe.
—
Grab BOOK ONE, Bossy Brothers Jesse, for FREE!
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—
EXCERPT:
I’m studying the reef below me, trying my best to ignore what’s happening on the other side of the little waterfall lagoon with Luke, Zach, and Bart, but at the same time desperately trying to hear what they are all saying.
Bart is definitely coming on to Zach. And Luke is pissed.
Hell, I’m pissed. Zach is mine. He’s the only reason I’m here. I can deal with Luke. He could turn out to be a big, ol’ sexy bonus, even if he is kind of moody and distant.
But this Bart guy?
No. He was not part of my plan.
Suddenly Luke is below me in the water, his dark hair waving around his face, his finger pointing up.
I stop snorkeling and pull the mouthpiece out, then slide my mask up my face so I can see him better when he pops up in front of me. “What’s up?” I ask.
“We’re going to the party.” Luke nods his head in that direction. “Zach is already over there. With Bart.” He adds a little extra malice to the name Bart.
Luke’s eyes track over to the floating party platform where dozens of people are crowding. We both watch as Luke and Bart come to a stop in the shallows of the sandbar. Bart leaves his Seabob in the water and pushes Zach, making him stumble and laugh as they both wade their way towards the platform.
“Hmm,” I hum. Then I look at Luke. “Are we going to allow this?”
“We?”
“Hey, I wouldn’t be here if he didn’t want me here. And at least I’m on your side. Bart there, he’s just some random rich kid looking to get laid by the first shiny thing that catches his eye. Which would be Zach.”
Luke frowns at me. “You’re no different, Posie. Zach and I are partners. You’re his version of shiny. He’s with me.”
“He’s with Bart, Luke. And like I said, Zach wants me here. So looks like you need a little help in holding onto your man. I’m offering to be that help.”
Wow. I’m not really sure where that came from, but I like it. It’s gonna be a good quote for the article. One of those big ones in the middle of a wall of text. The kind with ginormous quotation marks framing it.
Anyway. Back to reality.
“But,” I continue, “I can just as easily stay on the yacht until we’re ready to go and you can handle things all by yourself, if that’s what you prefer.”
He glances over at Zach again. And Zach is laughing and smiling, like he’s completely unaware of the drama going on over here.
“I like him, Luke.”
Luke’s attention snaps back to me. “So? You’re no one, Posie. Just another girl we picked up in a club. Do you have any idea how many times we’ve done that? Dozens.”
“But I’m still here.”
“For today. Trust me, after we drop you off at home tonight, he’ll forget all about you and just start hunting down another girl.”
“To spice things up? Is he bored with you, Luke? Is this how you keep him?”
I’m pissing this guy off. It’s probably a bad idea. I’m hours away from the mainland, he’s like six-foot-three, almost twice my weight, and he’s my ride home. So it’s a very bad idea to pick this fight with him.
But he needs an ally. And I’m his only option. If I’m gonna position myself as a permanent fixture in Zach Boston’s life I need to jump the hurdle called Luke first.
And this stupid Bart guy is the perfect way to unite us so I can make that leap.
“You have no idea what you’re talking about. Zach and I have a lot more between us than sex. Our families are connected. Our business is connected. There are bigger things on our minds than who we’re sleeping with. This is just Zach being Zach. It’s just a game. But trust me, when it comes time to go home, he leaves with me, Posie.” He pauses. Then points his finger at me. “And I’m on to you.”
I scoff. “Whatever.”
“I see you, Posie. I have seen plenty of girls like you over the past year. You all think Zach is a prize to win. And don’t bother playing dumb. You know his last name is Boston. That’s the only reason you’re here, isn’t it?”
For a moment I panic, thinking Luke knows who I really am. He knows about the contract I have with Buzz Hollywood. He’s figured it out.
But then he says, “You’re looking for status. Money. You want to party with him, and get your picture taken, and use him to get something better. Climb some ladder you don’t have access to. Discard your boring, pathetic life and reinvent yourself a new one.”
“Wow,” I say. “You get mean when you’re jealous.”
“I’m not jealous.”
“Stop it, OK? I’m not here to steal him from you. I just like him. And I like you too. Enough to share. And isn’t that what he and you do? Hm? Share?”
Luke doesn’t react. Like at all. So I keep going.
“If we team up, then Bart doesn’t have a chance. Zach likes you, Zach likes me. He has a life with you—as you pointed out—and I’m the new flavor of the week. One he’s barely had a chance to taste. He wants us. We don’t need to fight over this. Yet.”
I pause to see if he’ll say anything about that. But he holds his words in, so I finish.
“We need to get him out of here. Because Bart over there?” I nod my head towards the crowd. “He lives in Zach’s world. Not ours. He’s one of the ruling class. You don’t need to talk to him to figure that out. He’s dripping with privilege. Just like Zach. They are of the same kind. And maybe Zach does love you, but this is his world, Luke. He’s not Zach, one half of your yacht charter service. He’s a Boston. He belongs here in this exclusive, secret pop-up party for the rich and bored—and we don’t.”
Luke lets out a long breath. Like he was holding it in while I talked. He’s gently waving his arms in the water. And I can feel the slight current his flippers make as we tread water in the middle of this beautiful waterfall cove.
He knows I’m right. Luke has a precarious hold on Zach Boston for now. But for how much longer?
They don’t have much time left by the looks of it. I’m no expert in relationships but I’ve been in enough of them to see the signs of one winding down. The bond between Luke and Zach is based on a lot of things—but it’s not love.
Mutual attraction, sure.
Family ties and all that business junk. Fine.
But that’s not eternal partner type stuff.
So all I have to do is hang around long enough to watch it break and then be there when Zach needs somewhere to turn.
Wow. I’m sorta ruthless when I’m focused.
Who knew?
Author Bio:
JA Huss is a New York Times Bestselling author and has been on the USA Today Bestseller's list 21 times. She writes characters with heart, plots with twists, and perfect endings.
Her books have sold millions of copies all over the world. Her book, Eighteen, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award and an Audie Award in 2016 and 2017 respectively. Her audiobook, Mr. Perfect, was nominated for a Voice Arts Award in 2017. Her audiobook, Taking Turns, was nominated for an Audie Award in 2018. Her book, Total Exposure, was nominated for a RITA Award in 2019.
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