Nikki Lynn Barrett's Blog

Sleeping Angel Prologue & Chapter One

The wait is almost over!

Sleeping Angel (Soul Connection, #2) is releasing March 26th! This can be read as a stand alone, but characters from Peaceful Slumber DO make an appearance.

This is a paranormal romantic suspense novel.



















Blurb: 


Logan

Everyone thinks I tried to kill her on purpose.
Sure, she's part of the reason my sister is dead.
I'm angry, I won't lie.
But I never meant to hit Angel.
On the anniversary of my sister's death, I felt so much pain until I couldn't.
I made the worst mistake of my life.
The fate of my future lies in her hands, 
and I have to come to terms with everything I've done.


Angel

From one life altering event to another.
I'm the girl always in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Haunted by the past, uncertain of the future.
I dreamed of becoming someone else and erasing my existence.
Now my wish is about to come true.
Not only can I not escape my own nightmare
I'm now living someone else's.
The one man who understands the guilt I feel
'is the same man who put me in this position in the first place.



Prologue
2016Logan
   “Here we are, lovely ladies,” I say to my fifteen year old sister, Andi, and her three best friends. “First stop, the beach.” I climb out of the car and open the door for Andi, holding out a hand. She loves it when I do this. She always tells me I set the bar too high for what a good guy is and how she'll never find anyone who will be as much of a gentleman as her big brother. I'm not always this way, but I love to play it up for Andi and the girls.
     My sister's eyes light up. Just the effect I hoped for. “Happy birthday, Andi. I hope fifteen is even more amazing for you. In half a year, we'll work on your driving.” We're not certain she'll be able to drive, but it won't stop me from taking her out on the back roads to give her lessons, anyway.

      Andi was born deaf, and with that, she's never strengthened her vocal chords, so she's mute. I've never once heard her voice, but my sister, she speaks to my heart. 
        Her grin widens, and she signs her response. “I love you, Logan.”

      “Will you wait for me until I'm eighteen?” Andi's best friend, Liza, teases.

      I ruffle her hair. “You'll be famous by the time you're eighteen. You won't even remember ol' what's his name when you're the second biggest star.”

      Liza gasps. “Second biggest star?”

      “That's right. First place always belongs to my sister. Andi's always my number one.”

      Her eyes flash with amusement and understanding. “Like seriously, give my jackass brother pointers. I am falling hard for you, Logan McVey.”

      I'm pretty sure she's only partially joking, but I'm not going to lead any of Andi's friends on. Even if I didn't currently have a girlfriend, I'd never make a move on one of them.

      Andi hugs me again, then signs to her friends. “Told you he's the best.”

      “I might not be the best after spending the weekend with the three of you,” I tease, “especially with the all night laughs. What if you keep me awake? I'm a grouch when I don't sleep. Betcha Andi won't tell you that. And you'd better not get any notions in your mind about practicing makeovers on me.”

      “What are you, the big, mean monster in the middle of the night?” Janelle shoots back at me with a smile on her face.

      I raise my hands and wiggle my fingers. “Might be. Rawr.”

      The girls run toward the ocean, screaming, except for Andi. She beams at me, squinting in the sunlight. “Thank you for this weekend,” she signs quickly, but I know exactly what she's saying. It hasn't been an easy year. Andi started high school, and there are a lot of assholes who pick on her because she's deaf and doesn't speak. Sometimes, she comes home frustrated and in tears, and I take it upon myself to be the one to cheer her up. That means late night adapted movies, root beer floats, and pillow fights.

      My little sister is everything. My whole world. I love this girl, and I know once she finds herself, she's going to shine. Until then, I'll do everything in my power to bring good days and rainbows in her life.

      Andi's my inspiration. She’s the reason I'm going into the field of teaching. Every time I feel like I've lost my way, she finds me and sets me straight again.

      Where would I be without Andi? I don't want to find out. Ever.

      Tapping my camera bag, I sling an arm around my sister and make sure I look at her so she can read my lips before speaking. “You're welcome, Princess Andi. Now come on. We've got pictures to get. Gonna attempt my photography skills for the star of the weekend.”

      Andi wants to have a photo shoot, but doesn't want to deal with strangers she doesn't know trying to get her in the right position for the photos, so I promised her I'd do my best.

      She grins like the Cheshire cat. I adore the happy smile on her face. I haven't seen it in a while. If I can bring her some excitement for a few days, then I'm going all out. A trip to the beach, Disneyland, Universal Studios … yeah, I'm going full on spoiling, but I don't give a shit.

      Mom and Dad were unable to get the weekend free, so I said I'd take full responsibility for the girls so that Andi could have a memorable birthday.

      Andi sprints toward her friends, her long, raven hair blowing in the breeze. As the sun sinks lower on the horizon, we spend the next hour posing and running through the waves as they crash on the shore, then we find a place and grab dinner.

      Late that night, before I say goodnight to the girls, since I'm staying by myself in the room next door, I wrap Andi in a hug. “I love seeing you smile,” I sign to her when I let go. “I need you to promise me something.”

      She eyes me, raising a brow in response. She doesn't have to sign for me to know she's waiting. “If anyone threatens you, bullies you, or hurts you again, you tell me. You tell me exactly who they are, because I will ruin them. I've been terrified this year, Andi. You aren't yourself.”

      A tear slides down her cheek. “I'm sorry.” She rubs her fist in a circle against her chest. “I don't want to bug everyone all the time. I just want to be normal, not feel like I'm tattling every day because some jackass said something mean.”
         It's a hell of a lot more than mean words, and I know it. Andi can't hide that from me. I rest my hands on her shoulders. “But it's becoming too common. I don't want you to feel like you have to get used to it. I love you, Andi. I want the best for you.”

      “I know you do,” she mouths in silence, “but I don't want you to get in trouble, either. You have a temper sometimes.”

      I let out a laugh. She doesn't know the half of it, but I'll never stop when it comes to making sure bullies know to stop fucking with my sister. “Maybe I do, but when it comes to you, I'll fight. I'll always fight.”

      “I don't want fights. I want happiness. There isn't enough of that in the world lately.” “Then be happy, Princess. I'll be on my best behavior, but you have to work with me here, too. I don't want to hear how many times someone's been a jerk to you. You don't deserve it.”

      She throws her arms around me, and I hug my sister tight. If anything happened to her, I'd be a wreck.

      Sometimes, I'm scared to death she's going to get sick and tired of the pain one day. She's become somewhat reclusive and sullen. Mom and Dad have the same worry.

      I'm the only one who's able to reach her, but even I know she's not being completely honest. How can I get it all out of her so I know what we're facing?

      I'll fight for her. Always. I make a silent vow to watch over her. To protect her. I won't make a move against anyone who's nasty to her unless she asks, but my sister will be treated with the respect she deserves. And damn anyone who goes against that. They'll feel my wrath.
*****
Eight months later
      Staring at the last email from my now ex-girlfriend, a sigh blows past my lips.

      What went wrong? All of a sudden, she stops talking to me. Completely blows me off. We've been together for over a year. I don't even understand.

      Then I happened to spot her with someone else.        Another man.
      Making out in public, of all things.
      She'd looked right at me without a damn regret, and then kissed him again.
      This happened a week ago, and I'm still wrapping my mind around the situation.         The doorbell rings. Why does my damn apartment have to have a doorbell? As if I want to know someone's on the other side of the door trying to reach me.

      I take the pillow and shove it over my face, letting out a grunt of frustration. Then I climb out of bed and stomp toward the door. I don't feel like having company.

      “Who is it?” I snap, then yank the door open. My stance softens.
      My sister steps inside. “I'm here to keep you company and cheer you up. You're always trying to bring out the smiles in me, so it's my turn.”

      Andi's presence melts my heart. I don't want company, damn it, but no way in hell am I turning my sister away.

      “Thank you, Princess,” I say before hugging her close to me, not wanting to let go.

      “She didn't deserve you.” Andi narrows her eyes when she steps away. “Only an idiot would let you go.”

      “Don't tell your friends I'm newly single,” I tease. “They'll be lining up again, and I'm not ready for that.”

      Andi laughs, then signs, “I won't tell. I'm good at keeping secrets.”

      I know that she is, all too well.

      I wish she could hear her laugh. It's heartwarming. Andi doesn't know her worth. One day, I'll find a way to show my sister everything she's meant to see.

      “Want to take some frustration out on the court?”

      Raising a brow, I can't help but grin. “You up for that?”

      “I've been practicing, butt head.” Andi shoves at me playfully.

      “You best bring your stuff, little sis,” I say before heading to the closet to grab my basketball, glad that she chose to come over. I've never reached out to Andi when I've been hurting, and she came to me, knowing more than I did about needing someone.

      There's always that someone. The one person to bring out a smile in you, even when you don't feel like it. The person to cheer you up when the world beats you down. The one person you can share a laugh with over anything, at anytime, and you feel like it's all right.

      Andi is, and always has been, that someone for me.

      My sister is my best friend. We have six years between us, but it doesn't matter. She's the sun in my dim universe, and I haven't shown her that much lately. Having a girlfriend and suddenly being single made me open my eyes. I've neglected my time with Andi without realizing it, which means I haven't been good at keeping an eye on her. That leaves me sick at heart. What the hell have I missed?

      “Hey.” I tap her on the shoulder so she turns and looks at me on the way to the basketball court. “I'm sorry I've ignored you so much lately.”

      Her expression turns into a frown. She puts her hands together and flies through the signs. “You haven't.”

      “You sure? I feel like I let you slide down to second place.”

      “I can't always be your first place, Logan. You deserve happiness, and I know you had it for a while. I liked that you opened your heart to someone. I'm just sorry she ripped it out and gave it back to you with little answer as to why.”

       “You bring me a happiness I can't express in words.”

      “Will you still say that when I beat your ass out on the court?” She grins.

      “Language, young lady.” I wag a finger at her.

      Andi laughs again. I'm pretty much the only person she laughs out loud for. She's told me as much. It means everything when she's comfortable enough to share something with me that no one else gets. I point to the basketball court. “Last one there's a rotten egg!”

      Andi plays a damn good game, but I win. Still, we had a damn good time. I take her back to the apartment, and we both cook dinner. While it's simmering on the stove, we catch up. School, life, everything.

      Except I have this horrible feeling Andi is keeping something from me, and as much as I prod and poke, she's not budging.

      There's not much I can do but let her know I'm always here for her. She'll talk when she's ready.
*****
Two months later


    The frantic call comes in at six o'clock on a Saturday. Mom is in hysterics, and I barely understand a thing she's saying.

      “Whoa. Mom, calm down,” I plead. “Talk to me slowly. What's going on?” I've been in my apartment most of the day, studying. I need to get back on track after the last couple months, so this test has put a lot of weight on my shoulders. The school year is nearly at an end, and this isn't the only final I have to deal with.
         “Andi. S-she hasn't come home. I thought maybe she was with a friend and forgot to tell me, but I've been calling every single one and no one has seen her since lunchtime.”

      The hairs on the back of my neck stand at attention. “What? Why didn't you call me right away? I could have been out looking for her! I'm coming over right now!”
        I don't give her time to reply. I hang up, grab my keys, and toss a shirt on. I'm pretty sure it hasn't been washed in three days, but I'm determined to get to my parents' house and find my sister ASAP. The last two months have hit me harder than I ever expected. I kept telling myself I'd do better the next day. Keep my promises, stay sane, and not think about all the screw-ups.

      Except I haven't.

       There are nights I'd find myself drinking more than usual.

      Andi would come by several times a week, and on those nights, I'd stay sober. If she knew I was feeling miserable and lonely, she didn't say.

      But I should have asked. I should have been more on top of everything, including the bullying situation.

      Because tonight, while searching for Andi, I'm learning that I have been a complete asshole.
      Her situation at school is far worse than I imagined.         How do some of her friends know more about this shit than I do?
      Back at my parents' by nine with no luck, I pace the living room while my mother makes another call.
      Police show up, and they take our statements.
       My gut is sick with worry. With anger. Fear. Disgust.
      “I'm sorry,” I mutter to Mom and Dad after the cops leave.
      “For what?” Mom looks at me funny.
      “I've been so wrapped up in myself and my pity me post break-up that I haven't been giving Andi the attention she deserves.”
      “Logan...” Mom sighs. “As close as you two are, you both have your own lives. I admit, I've been worried about you, too, especially since you picked up a drinking habit, but you have nothing to be sorry for.”
*****
Three months later


      Hours turn to days.
      Days turn to weeks.
      Andi hasn't come home.
      Every single day, I go back and sit in her room, pick up her favorite comfort items, sift through her stuff, hoping for a diary where she confessed all of her teenage secrets.
      There are none.
      No signs of her.
      Did she run away to start all over again? Is she dead? Safe?
      Does someone have her?\
      Does she think about all of the good days we had?
      Does she know how much I love her?
      Sometimes I catch myself asking did she, but fuck that. I refuse to give up hope. I will not speak of her in the past tense.         My sister has to come home.
      Shejust has to.
      A few of my friends have been around, getting me through, but the drinking, it's not any better. I can't help it. Can't stop it. I've been drowning my misery in a stiff drink. The loneliness from several losses in the last few months have taken a toll.

      I clutch Andi's favorite blanket in my hands as I sit on her bed once again. She's had this thing since she was about five or so. It's pink and hideous, but it's her must have to be able to sleep.

      I don't even give a shit this time. I let myself go. Tears fall. “I'm sorry, Princess. I failed you. Come home, okay? We'll play on the courts, or we can go to the movies and see all the chick flicks you want. I need you, Andi.” Wrapping myself up in her blanket, I stand and take another look at her room. The same thing I've been doing for months: waiting, waiting, and waiting some more, hoping we hear news of her whereabouts. We don't know if she's alive, if she's in the state ... nothing.

     No trace. No sign. No leads.

      Picking up one of the photos on her desk, I smile through my tears. It's one of us at the ocean on her fifteenth birthday. Her smile is etched in my memory. I never realized how much we look alike until this photo. We've both got the same raven black hair. The same blue-green eyes. She's seven inches shorter than me. Anyone can immediately tell we're related.

      Will I ever see that smile again?
      “Logan.”

      I barely hear her, but when Mom comes in and sits next to me, the devastation is in her eyes. I can't hold it in.

      “No...” I whisper, afraid of what she's going to tell me. I don't want concrete proof. I can't take it. The looks are enough. Don't let the words come. I want to be wrong. I want to be wrong!

      “Angel McCready just came forward. She provided information that now has two boys in custody. I don't know much else at this point.” She looks away, about to break. “Other than...” 
        “Andi...” I croak, not ready for this.

      “She's … she's not coming home, Logan. She was murdered.”

      I'll never forget the words. The pain. The way my world fell apart on the day my worst fears came true.

      I lost my sister. I failed her. I couldn't protect her like I always promised I'd do.
*****
       I'm not going to be able to sit through this trial much longer. Several days in, and I'm already fueled by anger.
      Those assholes.
      Sick fucks.        Guys I thought were my friends are the biggest enemies of them all. Gabe Holden and Seth Layle are fucking murderers.

      Having to sit and listen to Seth talk about how he dated my sister, and when she tried to break it off with him, he stalked and tormented her until the end.

      Until they killed her.

      The night Angel saw something was the night Andi first tried to break things off. It was why Seth was angry. Why she didn't fear him completely, which went fairly unnoticed to Angel.

      But she'd seen enough and hadn't done a damn thing.

      Had Angel stepped in, maybe things would be different. Andi might still be here, instead of having to properly bury her just days after Angel's information brought on the arrest.

      My hands ball into fists as the sentencing comes in.
      Life in prison.\
      Seth looks at me, and the fucktard smirks. I shoot to my feet as the courtroom erupts in chaos.
      “Don't, Logan.” Mom grabs my hand. Her eyes are red. Mascara runs down her cheeks. Dad is next to her, but since this whole thing, they've separated. I don't know if there's any chance of reconciling. He barely speaks to her, or to me.
      “But he...” I start.
      Mom's expression doesn't change.
      Seth and Gabe are already out of the courtroom.         And then Angel approaches me.        “Logan.” She reaches out to touch my hand. “I'm so sorry.” Her bright blue eyes are bloodshot, and I know she's been crying.

      Rage fills me again. “You could have saved her, had you paid attention. You're selfish! How dare you come apologize to me! I'll show you sorry!”        “Please, I-” She speaks again, completely shaken and flustered.         “Leave me the hell alone!” I roar. All eyes are on me now.       I don't remember much else. Blinded by grief, anger, and revenge, I know that I'm going to spend a long time not only hating those assholes, but Angel McCready, too.
      Nothing can bring Andi back to me.
      I hate them, and I hate myself.




Chapter 1
2019Logan
      Routines are usually a good thing. Except for mine.
      Every anniversary, birthday, holiday, or other significant occasion, I'm in the same place, doing the same thing. I know it's wrong, I know I should be somewhere else, but I end up in the same place, doing the same thing.

       It's like being on autopilot. I can't make myself change it.
      First stop, the cemetery. I hate this place, but it brings me closer to her.
      Regret follows me every step of the way.          I can't let go. Not after two years.
       I blame myself, but even more, I blame her. Angel McCready.
      Her name is a lie. No, I don't mean she's faking it. She's no angel.        I watch her, day after day. She probably knows it. I don't give a shit. I want to see what she's doing. How can she go on with her life normally?
      She's a killer.
      Angel didn't kill anyone by her own hand, but her silence did.
      Some days, I want her to die. I shouldn't admit this, people would think I'm a sick dickwad, but I wish she'd suffer, the way my sister did.
      Both of my parents warned me I should never have gone to the trial. I was too close to Andi, and hearing the words from her killers stole anything remotely decent left in my already battered soul. I've gone through grief counseling. I've talked to people. Not about the real deep stuff, but enough to satisfy my parents.

      It all comes down to guilt.
     I can blame Angel all I want, and I do, but part of it lies on me. I brought those fuckers into my sister's life.
     I didn't know.
      How was I to know they'd been tormenting her? How was I to know that Seth had a thing for her, they'd dated, but Andi wanted to end things? How was I to know Seth refused to take no for an answer?

      I'd tried to get Andi to talk so many times, but I should have tried harder, no matter what. And I didn't.

       Seth was supposed to be my friend.         He'd looked me in the damn eye all the time.
      Behind my back, he made my sister's life hell until he drowned her. Held her underwater until she took her last breath.

       And he'd smiled at me right before they took him away.
      All I wanted to do was kill him right then and there.         Stopping before her headstone, I trace the lettering of her name. “I miss you, Andi. You would have been eighteen today. You were supposed to graduate high school. I should have been a better brother to you. I hung out with the kids I thought were cool, got stupid with them, and look how it turned out. You're gone.” I slump against the headstone.
     Holding the picture of my sister in my hand, I stare at it. She had so much life left in her. She'd still been the life of the family.

       Now gone, my parents can't stand the sight of each other and have moved on.
      I wanted to go to school, become a teacher, and get the hell out of Payson. I wanted to help Andi with her college courses and help her achieve her dream of becoming a chef.

      We made a damn great team.
      That all changed the fateful, heartbreaking day she disappeared, then again when I learned she'd never come home.

      I'm still here, labeled as the town drunk. At twenty-four years old.

      “I would have driven the limo for you and your friends to attend prom. I probably would have scared the shit out of your date, but he'd know not to mess with my sister.” I choke back a cry. “Damn it, Andi, it's not fair!”

      I lay the flowers down. Tulips. Her favorite. They'll wither and die in this late August heat, but I'll replace them when that happens.


      “I wish you'd talked to me. You should have known you always could, no matter what. Happy birthday, Princess. I miss you. I miss you so damn much.”

       I  could make tonight different. No drinking. No going to The Lounge, where Angel's brother Russ still works as he slowly pays his way through college, doing exactly what the hell I'd planned to do. Except as I drive off after saying goodbye to Andi, The Lounge is exactly where I end up.

      Same stool. Same drink. Vodka. Straight up.

      It doesn't help that Russ is there, serving me. His eyes are full of sympathy as he greets me. “Hey, man.”

       “Same as always, please, and no comments.” I slam my fist against the bar top, startling him. The anger rages a war tonight. The pain and emptiness follows suit.

      Russ shrugs and brings me two of what I want.

       After downing the first one, the liquid burns my throat. I wish it would burn out the pain still living inside me.
      Time for the second.
       And another.
       And another.          I don't know how many I've had, but after a while, I get what I've been craving. The feeling of misery surrounds me. Sounds are muffled. I'm drunk, and fuck, I'm crying. Sobbing to the bartender about my life, and it isn't even Russ. 
         I think I just smashed the glass, crushed in between my shaky fingers. I see red, there's people rushing toward me with napkins and bandages, but I want nothing to do with it.

       Then I leave.
       When I get to my car and reach into my pocket, it dawns on me that my keys aren't in there. Fuck, Russ must have known and snatched them.
       Whatever. I'm not going back inside right now for them.
       I stumble down the street, pissed at the world. A walk will do me some good.          I don't know how I managed it without getting hit or falling, but the next thing I know, I'm standing in front of Angel's house.

       She's having a damn party.
       On the night of what would have been my sister's eighteenth birthday.
      How the fuck could she?
      How?         Rage consumes me, and I rush inside, ignoring the shouts from people.
      "What the hell is going on in here?” I slur. The bass from the music is too much. Overstimulating. I can't control the anxious state of mind hitting me hardcore.          “Logan? You're drunk, man,” someone says.
       “Ya think?” My vision blurs, and I swear I'm seeing things. The guy in front of me looks like Link, the hero from the Legend of Zelda. I blink several times. Nope, still there. I rub my eyes and hope for the best. 
         “It's Scott,” the guy says. “Maybe it's best we get you out of here, huh?”

        “How could she have a party tonight? Angel's a cold hearted bitch!”
       A hand lands on my shoulder. “Let me take you home, Logan. You don't need this, and neither does Angel.”

      “Fuck her!” I shout.
       It gets eerily quiet in here.
       “Sleep it off, Logan.” Ah, there's Russ. “You should have been cut off long before.”          “Then ya shoulda done your job, jackass,” I snarl at him. “What do you know, huh? You ever suffer a loss?”



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Musicians on Tour Facebook Page hop

Join the fun as 15 authors bring you character interviews with their musicians! Hop over to each page, read the interview, learn about new characters (or if you've read them before, get to know them on a musical level), and win some prizes!

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Nikki Lynn Barrett- http:www.facebook.com/nikkilynnbarrettauthor

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Chapter Reveal: Peaceful Slumber

PEACEFUL SLUMBERpart of the Mystic Passions boxset
by Nikki Lynn BarrettGenre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense

ScottI was somewhat normal once.Until I died.It was only for a few minutes, but ever since then, I can see ghosts.The first time I see her is in the cemetery, wearing a blood stained wedding dress. No one else knows she exists.I have no idea how to help her or why I chose to, but she's here now.The one person who makes me feel alive for the first time in ages is a spirit trapped in her own version of hell with no recollection of her life or death.

ZeldaIt sounds like the start of a horror novel or something.I'm the amnesiac ghost bride who wakes up with no memory of my life or death. Only one person can see me.With no clues as to who I am or how I wound up in this predicament, Scott is my only chance of helping to unlock my memories. It's not easy. He's sarcastic and jaded.But he's the only link I have to the living world.



Prologue
I remember nothing.

A cold blanket of fog surrounds me as I sit up from the hard surface I must have been sleeping on, wearing a wedding gown, once white, now stained in red. My mind races a mile a minute, scrambling to retrieve a memory of what happened, like a dog scampering for his ball, but I come up empty.

Who the hell am I?

Where am I?

What happened to me?

Why is no one here?

Another thing that catches my attention right away is the fact that I look like death, but I feel nothing. Based on the condition of the wedding dress, whatever happened must have been brutal.

Nothing at all. No aches. No pains.

Okay, fine. Maybe the blood isn't mine, but that means it's someone else's, and I have no idea who, what, when....

I'm repeating myself.

Rather easy to do when I am trying to piece together the missing fragments that make up my life.

I stand with ease and interpret my surroundings. It's dark and foggy. Cold winds snap in my face. Shivers slam my body relentlessly. Maybe that's shock, though. How can I feel a chill when there's pretty much no other feeling?

Not that I expect an answer, but I call out, “Someone help me!” My voice brings no recognition. Not even a spark of who I am.

Panic settles over me.

My mind is blank. Empty.

How do I not have any memories? Did I fall? Crash? Hit my head? There's no pain, but that doesn't mean anything. Maybe shock has taken away the ability to feel pain. But I'm cold. So that's something.

Next step, check my body for wounds. My hands travel up and down my torso, searching for any tender spots or any blood seeping from an open injury. There's nothing. Absolutely nothing. This isn't promising. It doesn't calm my chaotic mind.

Before I go into a full blown panic meltdown, I stop and listen. There are voices. People talking. This is my chance!

“Hey! Can anyone hear me?” I scream into the foggy abyss.

No one responds, at least, not to me. The talking continues. Someone is sobbing hysterically, and it's most definitely not me.

I can't see them, and I don't think they can see me. Still, I scream and cry, running frantically until I can find someone.

I shouldn't be able to move this easily. I shouldn't feel nothing. Not with blood on my dress. One would think I rolled around in a pool of it. This isn't a few drops, I look like I bathed in it.

There's a crowd of people huddled together, surrounding something. And they're crying. Bowed heads, gut wrenching sobs.

I'm in a graveyard.

In front of the crowd of people is a coffin.

Is that me in there? Am I dead? Is that why I'm here?

I run … well, I don't even know if I'm running, because hell, I don't know if I'm alive, to the crowd. I'm like an animal ready to pounce at the first sight of a person.

“Somebody! Please tell me you can see me!” I scream, waving my hands.

No one turns my way. No one flinches. It's as if I'm invisible, which I think is becoming more and more likely. Because I'm dead. I have to be. It's the only explanation I can come up with, not that it's an option I'm happy to think about. I don't know who I am. How did I get here? Why does it seem like my memories are wiped clean?

How did I die?

Chapter 1
Scott

Why do people say rest in peace to the dead? They don't rest in peace. How do I know? Because I can fucking see ghosts. The ghosts who seek me out aren't at peace. It takes time and a willing human to help them find that peace. I'm not willing, but they don't leave me alone. I've never been a big people person, and I'm sure as hell not a 'ghost' person, but does that stop them? Nope. Not in the least.

It hasn't always been this way. Only in the past three years have I been able to see the dead.


I blame it on the fact that I died once. For ten minutes, until doctors managed to resuscitate my sorry ass.

Today is the day we're burying my uncle Floyd. It's cloudy, and a slight drizzle is spraying us with a light mist.

There are ghosts everywhere.

I've learned to ignore them, for the most part. They find me no matter where I go. I can't even take a shit without a ghost appearing, frantic for help because they eventually know I can see them. That stupid split second where I let my weakness show, and they descend upon me like a vulture chasing its prey.

Not only have I come back from the dead, but the dead want me. Sure, fine. Why not? No one else does. Not for me, anyway. My parents ignore me until they see fit to have their son at all of their important events. Other than that, I'm an outcast. Pretty much used to it. They throw money at me and tell me to have a good day.

I thought when I died and had my life flash before my eyes, it would change. It did for a little while. Then they went back to normal. Work, work, work. At least, for Dad, that was the case. Mom did her little parties and women's charities and pretended like she gave a shit about all of it.

She goes to the bar and screws the bartender. Dad pretends not to notice.

Want to know how they gain sympathy?

By using me.

“My son Scott has a hard time of it. I think he's gone a little crazy.” I heard my mother tell someone this a few months ago. I'll never confront her on it. What the hell is the point?

Living with this shit is crappy, but it is what it is. One day soon, I'll blow out of town and make a new life. Maybe I'll even be famous and my parents will come begging for my forgiveness.

Doubtful.

Aunt Sara steps forward and places a rose on Uncle Floyd's casket. She's sobbing hard. Together for thirty-nine years, his sudden death is devastating on all of us. Floyd was the only one who gave a rat's ass about me. We always did stuff together. He gave me my first cigar, and we got drunk together once when I was seventeen.

It dawns on me then. Why don't I see his spirit?

I finally look around, knowing all too well these other spirits are gonna have a field day with this. I'm not about to make myself look crazy in front of family and friends. Not today, of all days.

Shudders ripple through my body. Damn, some of these deaths were gruesome. Not only can I see the ghosts, but I see them in their death form.

Blood. Torn skin. I won't go on. The visuals churn acid in my stomach. Gotta give credit to doctors. I couldn't do it. I'm not even good with scary movies. They make me want to hurl.

Trying to stay casual, I scan the cemetery for any signs of my uncle. There are none. Disappointment settles in the core of my soul. I have this 'gift' of being able to see spirits, but the one I would actually love to see, I don't get to.

There's a young woman in a blood stained wedding dress, and she's waving her hands frantically. Why this one grabs my attention over all the others is beyond me, but she does. I can't tear my eyes away from her.

She notices that I see her, and relief floods her eyes.

Before she can get to me, a hand lands on my shoulder. “You all right, son?” Dad's concern is almost genuinely touching. Too bad I call bullshit. It's all for show.

“You know the answer to that,” I snap as I jerk my shoulder away. Too much crap within the last few years has left me jaded. It can't even be denied.

Dad gives me a cold look, like he can't even believe I got upset at him. Instead of arguing, he pivots and storms off. What does he expect? Seriously!

Whatever. Let them go off. I came in my own car, and I don't have to answer to anyone.

The woman spirit is still there, frozen in the same place. I only have eyes for her. Her mouth opens in shock as I strut toward her. “Y-You can see me?”

Ah, a first timer. She has no idea where she is or what's happened. Confusion taunts her pretty green eyes.

“Wish I couldn't, but yes.”

She frowns. “Does that mean I'm dead? No one else can see me.”

“Fraid so.” No point in beating around the bush.

“That funeral over there isn't mine, is it?” she whispers.

“No. It's for my uncle.” Back at the grave site, most of my family has already left. The empty spot and the coffin ready to be lowered in the ground breaks me a little more inside. At least Uncle Floyd lived a damn good life. I loved his stories. If my aunt knew half the shit he did even while married, she'd have a stroke.

The more I think about it, the more it seems the ghosts who come to me have unfinished business. That show Ghost Whisperer comes to mind, except it's been recent for me to be able to see them.

“Why can you see me?”

Ha! I've only been asking that question since the first ghost. “You tell me.”She narrows her eyes. “You're not very nice.”

“I'm not nice? That's my uncle buried over there, and I'm talking to a ghost. Wanna try that again?” Frustration pumps through my body.

“At least you aren't dead! I don't even know who I am!” she shoots back.

Touche. Despite my irritation, Ghost Bride makes a valid point.

“You put things into perspective for me there,” I admit, scratching at the back of my neck. The rain doesn't hold off. Too much more of this and I'll have to leave. What's stopping me from doing so already? Why does this one ghost gravitate toward me above all others today? “You don't remember anything about who you are and how you died?”

She shakes her head. “I woke up in a foggy abyss. I don't feel pain, even though it looks like I died in a horrible way. I wonder where my husband or husband-to-be is.”

My gaze flits to her left hand. No ring. Hmm. Interesting. “You don't even have an engagement ring on your hand.”

She gasps and raises her hand. “You're right. So maybe I ran from him.”

“A paranormal version of runaway bride? Hmm.” The words tumble from my lips before I can even think about how callous I'm being.

“Ugh. You're not one to hold back, are you?” Ghost Bride mutters in disgust.

“I'm talking to a ghost. Do you expect me to be a perfect gentleman?” I retort.

“I guess not,” she relents.

“You're going to follow me if I leave, aren't you?” Most of them do. Why bother asking?

“I- I don't know. Can I even do that?”

Newbie ghost problems. “Wouldn't be the first. I can't speak from a ghost perspective, but they never leave me alone.”

“Have you always been able to see us?”

There we go. The loaded question. Man, spirits are damn talkative. “Nope. Just a couple years.”

Wait for it....

Holy hell. She's silent. Ghost Bride doesn't ask me why it's only been recent.

I'm impressed.

My next words surprise me. Damn, I'm a sucker. “I don't want to get drenched, but I'm not about to leave you here alone and confused. You can go home with me, and we'll figure out who you are and how to get you to wherever it is you need to go.”

Her eyes light up. “Thank you, thank you, thank you!” And then she tries to hug me. Ghost Bride's hands go right through me. I'm used to it, but she isn't.

She gasps, stepping back. “Okay, that's weird.”

“Right, so...let's go.” I gesture to the parking lot, which is fairly empty now.

“Umm...” Ghost Bride hesitates. “How exactly do I do this?”

Another sigh escapes me. Newbie ghost problems, and it's like I have the answers. Why do I do this to myself?



Interested in reading this book when the entire boxset releases in July?


BE IN THE KNOW



No matter where she goes, USA Today Bestselling author Nikki Lynn Barrett hears voices in her head. Instead of calling her crazy and locking her up, her family realizes it's just a product of being an author and allows her to write the stories so that the voices shut up.

But they don't. And probably never will. There's no need to lock her up, Nikki knows she'll never escape the voices, not until each and every last story is written. And for every story she writes, about ten or more ideas pop up.

When she isn't slaving away at her computer writing books that will probably make you cry and keep you in suspense, Nikki plots to take over the world one book at a time. What? It's a sickness. One she can't escape!

Books aren't her only addiction, though. Nikki can be found making up parodies to drive her son crazy, and bantering back and forth with her husband, who somehow manages to steal her away from the fictional world she lives in all the time.

Nikki lives in Arizona with her husband and son, where she can be found using every creativity outlet she can find through music, photography, handcrafted things, and random interests that she may pick up from time to time.

If you want to learn more about the author who makes people cry for a living, check out her website.

Amazon ✯ FaceBook ✯ Facebook: Nikki's Book Nook ✯ Facebook: Nikki's Book Stormers ✯ Twitter ✯ Goodreads ✯ Blog

​

$3,000 Big Romance Author Spring Giveaway

Attention all awesome people! This month is a cool time to be a reader. 101 of your favorite authors contributed to one massive giveaway! Giveaway rules are listed on the rafflecopter. International peeps can play! Got any questions? Feel free to ask. There are 100 ways to enter for a maximum possible 500+ entries per person. The giveaway lasts the entire month of April, so come back every day and hammer away at a few more entries until you're all done! ONE PERSON WILL WIN $3,000 USD! That's the biggest giveaway I've seen recently! Tell your buds! Don't miss out. You'll kick yourself if you miss this one.


                                                                  a Rafflecopter giveaway


Terms & conditions are listed on the rafflecopter. Read it for full details. The winner will be chosen on May 1, 2016 and contacted via the email address they used to enter. CHECK YOUR EMAIL! The winner's name will also be posted on the rafflecopter widget above. Participating Romance Authors: 101 different authors came together to make this giveaway possible. If you've been looking for a new book boyfriend, or you're literally famished between your fave author's releases, check out some of my peeps! They write in various hot romance genres including contemporary romance, new adult romance, erotic romance, steamy romance, urban fantasy romance, dystopian romance, historical romance, futuristic/ sci-fi/ fantasy romance, Teen/ YA romance, inspirational romance and time travel romance! [caption id="attachment_356" align="aligncenter" width="689"] Big Romance Author $3,000 Spring Giveaway April 1-30th, 2016[/caption]

  H.M. Ward
Kim Golden
Drew Jordan
Christi Caldwell
Scarlett Metal
Chris Almeida & Cecilia Aubrey
Heidi McLaughlin
Jenny Gardiner
Stacey Joy Netzel
Merry Farmer
Mallory Crowe
Julia Kent
Jean Oram
Vella Day
Meli Raine
Sherri Hayes
Jayne Rylon
Sarah M. Cradit
Erica Ridley
Christine Zolendz
Beverly Preston
Marquita Valentine
Melissa Storm
Dana Marton
Amy Bartol
Michelle Fox
Magan Vernon
Ainsley Booth
Venessa Kimball
Sidney Bristol
K.M. Scott
C.C.Wood
J.M. Miller
Zara Keane
Eliza Knight
L.P. Dover
Sadie Haller
Patricia McLinn
Suzanne Rock
Katherine Lowry Logan
Erin Richards
Tori Scott
Danielle Stewart
P.T. Michelle
Suzan Tisdale
T.M. Franklin
Evelyn Adams
S.E. Hall
Lauren Hawkeye
Josie Bordeaux
Melanie Marchande
Raci Ames
Catherine Gayle
Sam Cheever
J.M Cole
Brooke Blaine
Ella Frank
Allison Bell
Cristin Harber
Jacki Delecki
Tawdra Kandle
Sydney Logan
Laura Kaye
Laura Kamoie
Evie Harper
P.J. Fiala
Taylor Law
Pamela DuMond
D.L. Roan
Jenni Moen
LG Castillo
Rachel Schurig
Nina Levine
Rachel Hanna
Cheryl Bradshaw
Jessica Scott
Beth Yarnall
J.T. Geissinger
Stacey Mosteller
Kylie Gilmore
Maryann Jordan
Cari Quinn
Lauren Royal
Renea Mason
Christine Bell
Felicia Tatum
Fabio Bueno
RaShelle Workman
Nana Malone
Annika Martin
Sophia Knightly
Nikki Lynn Barrett
Marian Tee
Sarah Castille
Allyn Lesley
Ambrielle Kirk
Jami Davenport
Bonnie R. Paulson
Laura Stapleton
Kennedy Layne

Cover Reveal! Fallen Idol

Title: Fallen Idol Series: Love and Music in TexasBook number: 4Genre: Contemporary romantic suspense Release Date: March 31, 2015


Blurb: 

What goes up must come down... 
Kyra Sanders had a promising career in country music in her teen years. She gained popularity and fame, riding high atop the the charts. Then one deadly accident changed things, sending her spiraling downward to the point she went into a hiatus from music. 
Six years later, Kyra's making her return to the music scene. With an album in the works and a new song on the radio, her career is back on track, until a call from Texas with news of an accident forces her to halt her plans. 
Matt Greer is working through the aftermath of his ex-wife's abandonment when she chose to leave him and their fourteen year old son to pursue her own musical dreams. He's had enough of troubled musicians and the havoc they bring to his life. Kyra surprises him in a good way, but it doesn't mean he wants anything to do with a singer who comes to town with trouble on her trail. 
It's hard to avoid each other in a small town, especially when their families are close. Matt should stay away from the woman who could lead danger right to their town, and it's possible she already has, but he can't help how drawn he becomes to her. 
The sparks ignite, but danger lurks in the distance, only getting closer as time goes on. For two people who want different things out of life, it's possible to find healing together...

This is the fourth book in the Love and Music in Texas series, but each book can be read as a stand alone. 

Preorder on Amazon for a special Intro price of 99 cents. Fallen Idol will go up to regular price of $3.99 one week after release. 

http://www.amazon.com/Fallen-Idol-Love-Music-Texas-ebook/dp/B00T6TC27U


Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21405402-fallen-idol

Fallen Idol stands on its on, but you can get can begin the series with Baby Stetson. It's currently free on all outlets.  
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Stetson-Music-Texas-ebook/dp/B00BWIE1GI
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/baby-stetson-nikki-lynn-barrett/1121029972?ean=2940151680325
http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/baby-stetson


https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id957161714


About the Author:


I'm an avid lover of books. I've been writing as far back as I can remember, completing my first "book" by fifth grade in one of those one subject spiral notebooks. I have a passion for music, photography, jewelry and all things creative. I live in Arizona with my husband and son, but dream of being somewhere much colder and stormier. For now, I'll have to live that life through my characters and stick it out with the summer heat.
Places to find me on the web:
wwww.nikkilynnbarrett.com

FaceBook
https://www.facebook.com/NikkiLynnBarrettauthor?ref_type=bookmark

Facebook Chat group: Nikki's Book Nook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NikkisBookNook/

Nikki's Book Stormers: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NikkisBookStormers/

Twitter: @Stormgoddess925

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6583655.Nikki_Lynn_Barrett


Email: nikkilynnbarrett@yahoo.com
I love to hear from readers!

Romance Adventures Blog Hop

Welcome to the Romance Adventures Blog hop!


The title is fitting, and I think I'll use this time to debut my newest book. Some may have seen me refer to a story that at one point before I had a title I dubbed "The Asshole redemption story."

Let me just say, this is my most nerve wracking book yet. It was a challenge to write. It was also a story I never imagined I WOULD write.

If you've been following my Christmas stories, which started with The Secret Santa Wishing Well, and the follow up On The 12th Date of Christmas, you'll know this character, the 'hero' of the new story which I've titled 'Tis The Season For Forgiving.

I don't have the final cover yet, but this is the already paid for cover photo that I'll share.




Last year when I released On the 12th Date of Christmas, I had a reviewer who loved the book. There was a last line in her review that completely threw me for a loop.

Why? Let me share that line with you.


PPS is it wrong that i want Eric to fix himself up and try and win back Petra

I showed that review to my husband. He looked at me and said something along the lines of "Now that would be interesting."

Never in a million years did I think someone would want a story for Eric. He wasn't a likable character. If you've read even one of these stories, you'll know that.

So I contemplated. I posted on FB a question last year about the biggest assholes in books and what stories they were. I pondered and pondered. I had a conversation with the reviewer and she told me why she felt he already had one redeeming quality already.

I kept thinking about this all year. With the books being holiday stories, I'd have to follow along the same lines. I went on to write other books.  I was going to write another one of the characters stories before I even thought about Eric and Petra. It took my husband a lot of convincing me to challenge myself and write a story for Eric.  My husband and I even sat down and watched American History X. He told me it was a good movie for me to watch if I'm thinking about redeeming this character.

So I watched the movie, not expecting much.

Holy crap I was surprised by that outcome. Sure, it's a movie, it's fictional, but it COULD happen. Horrible people can learn to change. It's not unheard of.

People may be tentative, heck, I was!

But I wrote Eric's story.

I struggled. It took me awhile to get in the groove. I've been quiet about it and not really telling many people who this new story was about. Yep, you can tell I'm nervous, right?

The story is done and in revisions, and surprisingly, going well. My husband took a look at it and said it's a good story. He was surprised at one of the angles I took in it, but I felt it worked.

So there's my adventure. I even have a blurb, but I'm warning you, it's a mess and hasn't been fixed yet. However, I thought I'd share it anyway to give you a sense of this story.




Changes are in the air...

Eric Jensen doesn't need the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future to know he's made his fair share of mistakes.  The reminders haunt him every day of his life, but a terrible loss becomes an eye opener this holiday season. A heartbreaking question from a young boy pushes Eric to do some serious soul searching and helps him strive to be better.

Forgiving is the key...

Petra Cavannaugh spent the past two years growing as a person. She left her ex boyfriend and struggled to make it on her own as a single mother.  When Eric shows up at her doorstep one night just needing to see her, she wonders if he's finally becoming the man she always wished he'd be. They've been down this road too many times.

The best gift could be a second chance...

As Eric shows a side to Petra she's never seen, the two grow closer. But is forgiveness enough to take a chance on love? Eric must learn to forgive himself, and Petra has to learn to put her trust in the new Eric and not let everyone else decide for her.

This holiday could bring so much more if they open their hearts once and for all.




Excerpt:  (Note: This is still in edits. Please excuse any mistakes not caught yet)


He noticed her and his gaze moved down to the skates. His eyes went wide. “You're asking for trouble.” He warned.
“Don't I always?” She quipped, not giving it much thought. Sitting on the edge of the seat, Petra handed him the skates. “Come on. Try it.”
“You're serious.”
“I'm serious. Come on.” She prodded.
With a shake of his head, Eric reached for the skates. Score for her!  He scooted down to the edge of the bench, took off his shoes and put the skates on, still leveling her with a wary look.
“When was the last time you had fun, Eric?”
He snorted. “Fun?”
“Yes. Fun. You know, laughing, smiling. Not always so serious.” She tried to recall the last time this man really smiled. There had to be a time at least once, right?
“I don't do fun.” He shrugged.
“Well that might be your problem. Live a little.” At the last words, she immediately regretted them. He'd just lost a friend. Someone he'd met through the anger management group he'd joined two years ago. Petra didn't know much about Adrian but she did know Eric respected and cared about him.
Eric didn't respond, but at least he finished lacing up the skates. He gripped the rail and tentatively stepped out on the ice. Petra followed him and held out a hand.
“You've never skated, have you?” She asked softly. The terror on his face almost made her want to laugh. In normal circumstances, she might. But with Eric she decided not to. The man was actually afraid of the ice!
“Nope.” His small one or two word answers were better than yelling, which was what he used to do. Progress. She'd take it. He grasped for her hand, as he stumbled a little.
“I've got you.” Petra kept a firm hold on him. “Well start off slow.”
“Can't say I didn't warn you. We're both in trouble if we end up with broken bones.” Eric grumbled.
Petra laughed. “I'm not easily breakable.” She shot back.
“I've learned that.” Eric's reply could mean so many things, but he didn't elaborate. “Where's Kinley?”
She pointed over at their daughter, still with Desiree, Ben, and Jacob's brother in law's kids.
Eric had a death grip on her hand.
“Come on, let's get a little speed going.” Petra stopped when he pulled her back by staying still.
“You said we'd start off slow!” He protested.
This time, she couldn't help it. Petra laughed. “I hate to be the one to tell you this, but you can't complain about starting off slow if you're not moving at all.”
He turned around, then faced her again. “Everyone's watching.”



Thanks for reading! Check out the other participating blogs, and I hope you'll add this book to your TBR pile on Goodreads!




















1. Liza O'Connor 2. Daryl Devore 3. Jennifer Lowery 4. Andrea R Cooper 5. Melissa Keir 6. Karen Lopp 7. Aine P Massie 8. Gaeille Vanderspek 9. Joceline Farrah 10. Jenna Jaxon 11. Gina Danna 12. Melissa Kendall 13. Sharon Cullen 14. D'Ann Lindun 15. Nikki Lynn Barrett 16. Tricia L. Quinnies 17. Lisa Kumar 18. Georgia Lyn Hunter 19. Sheri Fredricks 20. Susan Sheehey 21. Aleah Barley 22. Stacey Brutger 23. Bobbi Romans

Release Blast: A Masterpiece Unraveled.

                                        Release Blast: A Masterpiece Unraveled (The Masterpiece Trilogy #2)
                                                      By Nikki Lynn Barrett



Blurb:


As love blossoms, twenty year old secrets threaten it all...

Becca and Hunter have always tried to make sense of a tragedy, but they never fully asked why. Why were they on the same plane? Where were they going or coming from? Recent events force them to find out everything they can about the plane crash and the events that led them there.

Becca's always been strong. She's always found a safety net in Hunter, the man who saved her as a child and always stuck by her, giving her reason to go on when no one else gave her a chance. Now she fights to keep her strength going, but her fears begin to get the better of her. The facade she tries to hold up threatens to crack.

Hunter is learning to fight his demons and put them to rest, but he can't help but worry about Becca and the future they've just begun to build. She's become the withdrawn person he'd been for the past few years and he doesn't know how to help, unless he finds the answers they both are desperate to know.

They've always battled every storm together, but a new storm could sweep in and blow the foundation right out from under them...

The second installment of the Masterpiece trilogy is full of twists, turns, and secrets that come unburied...


WARNING: This story is not a standalone. This is the second in a trilogy that follow the same characters. A Masterpiece Of Our Love should be read first.

Excerpt:



He found the house matching the address and pulled up in front of it. A simple, yet elegant two story Victorian style home. Steps led up to the large front porch. The yard had so much well kept green grass. He sniffed the air. Smells like it had recently been cut.

Hunter didn't notice at first, not until he made it halfway up the walkway, but a man sat on the porch in a wicker chair. The man climbed to his feet slowly and stared at Hunter.

Recognition?

"It's like I've seen a ghost." Joe moved to the front of the porch, holding the banister. "Charles Beckman's boy, all grown up. You look so much like your father did at this age. I never thought I'd see you again. It's been what, twenty years? You're in your thirties now?"

"Thirty two," Hunter replied. Joe was real, and he remembered him! Shit! Wow. Now how much did he remember about what happened? As much as he wanted to ask him the truth now, he wanted to know this man he'd called Uncle even more. "I didn't remember about you until recently. A lot of my memories before the accident are skewed or not there."

"I wanted to come see you after you were found." Joe walked with a limp.

"Why didn't you?" He figured he knew the answer.

"I don't know. I wasn't in the position to take you in. I thought the past was better left there. Not a day goes by that I haven't thought of your parents and you. How are you? Where are you living now? You say you only now remembered me?" Joe gestured to the chairs a few feet away.

"I've been having triggers that bring back memories I couldn't recall before." Hunter took up his invitation, settling in the chair next to the one Joe sat in before. "Doctors say PTSD."

Joe scowled. "I'm sorry. I've seen the affects of it on people many times in my life." If he was worried about Hunter bringing up the past things he'd done, Joe didn't show it yet. "Married? Kids?"

"I was married. I have a child with my ex-wife." Hunter pulled his wallet from his pocket and took out pictures of Sienna. "My daughter. She's three." He handed the photo to Joe. His hand was shaky.

"Your dad and mom would have been proud grandparents. They would have doted on her. What's her name?"

"Sienna." Thinking of his parents as proud grandparents hit Hunter with a floodgate of emotions. "I called you Uncle Joe, didn't I?" he blurted. Well damn! He hadn't meant to put it out there quite like that.

Joe's eyes lit up. "You did. My wife and I never had children. We wanted them so bad, but life wasn't ready to make us parents. You were the closest thing I had."

So why didn't you come find me?

Hunter wanted so badly to ask, but for once, he didn't blurt out his thoughts.

"You really don't have many memories before-" Joe couldn't even bring up the crash.

"No, I don't. I hate it because so much has happened, and I don't even have anything from my mom and dad to hold on to other than memories. I don't even remember what happened to the house or where we lived, for that matter." Did he live in Maryland after all before everything?

"I've got things for you then. Photos, and a few items. I was the one who cleaned the house. I kept things, some of them even yours."

Hunter sat up straighter. "You took care of my house? Where did I live before?"

Which meant if there'd been any trace of what they were doing before the plane ride, Joe could have and probably did get rid of it. How convenient.

He'd sure made the right call to come here.

"You lived in Maryland, not far from Baltimore. Since you found me, you probably know now your dad was a lawyer. Best damn partner I ever had."

Maryland. He wondered if going there one day would bring back a memory. "I got my love of basketball from him," Hunter recalled.

Joe laughed. "Actually, you both found your love of the game through me. Your dad couldn't be bothered with it before, but we used to go to games and he grew into it. Wasn't a bad player, either. We took you to games from an early age. I was real proud when you picked up the love of it. Do you play any more?"

Hunter shook his head. "Not like I wanted to. It was just one of those things I let go of. I played here and there, but the love I had for it died the night I lost my family." Regret weighed on his heart.

"Come inside. I have some home videos and albums to show you." Joe struggled to climb to his feet. Hunter aided him. "I don't know what brought you to me today, but I've missed you, Hunter."



This book is the second in the Masterpiece Trilogy. A Masterpiece Of Our Love is the first book and is currently on sale for 99 cents! This is the beginning of Hunter and Becca's story.
























Blurb:


Two Lives Torn by tragedy.

Eight-year-old Becca and twelve-year-old Hunter cling to each other and life after surviving a plane crash which stole their families.

Two Souls Seeking Love.

Each year, from the time she was old enough to travel on her own, Becca met up with Hunter on the island that altered their lives forever.

Until he stopped showing.

Her constant. Her link to the past. Gone in the blink of an eye.

Two Lives Bound by Secret.

Suffering more heartbreak, Hunter returns to the one place he’s always sought comfort, the island where he and Becca met. It was the place that stole from him, and in the same instance gave to him. He hasn't been back or spoken to Becca in four years.

Though he’s sure she must hate him for disappearing, Hunter discovers the girl gone, now a woman in her place. Hunter is determined to prove to Becca he isn’t the same twelve-year-old boy of yesteryear.

But someone isn't happy about their reunion...

Strange things begin happening. Letters start showing up in their hotel rooms and at home with cryptic messages.

Two Broken Hearts Heal as One.

With the mystery unsolved, Hunter convinces Becca to spend the remainder of the summer back home with him, both for safety and to give them a chance to discover the adults they’ve now become.

Will love get a chance to blossom, or will the past come back and tear the masterpiece of their love apart once and for all?


Amazon     Barnes & Noble


Excerpt:


"Guess what I found?" Hunter carried a sweater and a pair of sweatpants in his hands. "You'll be nice and warm in no time." He handed them to her.

Becca pointed to his head. She wished her words would just come out already.

"You don't want to change into dry clothes first?" He raised a brow, then winced. "Damn that hurts. Okay fine, you win. I will probably curse and go stark crazy, so bear with me please?"

She may not have been able to find her voice to speak, but a quiet laugh escaped her throat. At least, that's what she thought it was.

Hunter crossed his arms over his bare chest. "Are you laughing at me?" Amusement danced in his gorgeous eyes. "That's so messed up! There is a little devilish side to you after all. I like it," he teased.

Becca smirked and pointed at the first aid kit. She wondered if he remembered any of the sign language, back from when she'd been mute and unable to communicate all those years ago. But so far, he'd been able to understand what she needed. The very first time he came to visit her, he'd learned it so they could talk. She remembered that day well on her aunt's back porch when Hunter sat beside her. He asked if she remembered him. She nearly cried that he'd taken the time to understand sign language for her.

"All right little devil, have at it. Just don't get offended for any swear words I may use." He cracked a smile. She loved that he could still have a sense of humor. It showed that even though he had some injuries, he was the same old silly Hunter she knew. She pointed down at the floor, wanting him to kneel before her. Again, he cued in right away and lowered to his knees.

Becca opened up the first aid kit and searched for what she needed. As she pulled out a large bandage, cotton swabs and the small bottle of peroxide to clean the wound, Hunter hissed. She flicked her gaze back to him.

"Call it psychological warfare. I'm anticipating that it's going to sting like you wouldn't believe. I know, I know, I'm being a baby and I should just shut up." Hunter raised his hands. "Think you can do that one handed? I might need you to hold mine with the other."

Becca grinned and held out her hand. She wished her voice would work with her so she could tell him how cute he was being. She couldn't be too sure if he was putting on an act to make her laugh or if he really was bothered by what she had to do. Regardless, she felt needed. Important. Something she longed for. When his shaky fingers curled over hers, a ripple of electricity zipped through her.

Now those were strange, random thoughts.

"Your hand is so cold. Not that mine is any better," Hunter said softly. "I know, I'm stalling. I should just man up and take it, huh? You won't tell anyone about my weak side there, will you?" He chuckled.

She slid him a knowing grin and put a finger to her lips, then ran the finger across them as if to say 'My lips are sealed'.

"I knew I could count on you."


About The Author:






I'm an avid lover of books. I've been writing as far back as I can remember, completing my first "book" by fifth grade in one of those one subject spiral notebooks. I have a passion for music, photography, jewelry and all things creative. I live in Arizona with my husband and son, but dream of being somewhere much colder and stormier. For now, I'll have to live that life through my characters and stick it out with the summer heat.Places to find me on the web:
wwww.nikkilynnbarrett.comFaceBook
https://www.facebook.com/NikkiLynnBarrettauthorFacebook Chat group: Nikki's Book Nook:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NikkisBookNook/Nikki's Book Stormers:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/NikkisBookStormers/Twitter: @Stormgoddess925Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6583655.Nikki_Lynn_BarrettEmail: nikkilynnbarrett@yahoo.com
I love to hear from readers!

Home For The Holidays Hop!

http://www.theromancetroupe.com/p/home-for-holidays-blog-hop.html


Welcome everyone, to the Home for the Holidays Hop! Yes, it really is that time again!  Hard to believe, considering it feels like we are still in summer or fall...well, at least in Phoenix. We hit 90 today! Eww. (I hate the heat)

First off, a couple things. When commenting, please leave an email address in your comment! This will give you an entry to the grand prize and easy access to email you if you've won! Click on the above link to check out the other stops and for a complete list of prizes....and there are PLENTY of them!

One thing about the holidays is that there's always so much food!  It's so hard not to indulge just a bit...or a lot! I love the mouthwatering taste of a spiral cut ham...juicy, tasty...or a turkey...buttered corn, mashed potatoes. For a drink, a nice glass of eggnog. One thing I love, and it's such a simple thing, is cucumber salad. Yes, you heard me right. Call me strange, that's all right. Nothing I haven't heard before.  But for the life of me, i can't perfect the recipe to my taste at all! My mom, or my Oma makes the best ones.  I mean, how hard can simple sliced cucumbers, water, vinegar, sugar and salt  be?

haha. Do you really have to answer that?

Start off by cutting up the cucumbers to thin slices.  Pour some sugar on top and then let it set for awhile. A few hours. The sugar ends up creating a sweet juice type thing and then you have to perfect the amount of water and vinegar just right. That's where my problem lies. :) Still, I enjoy it and will eventually ONE day get it to where i'm happy.



Now the holidays aren't just about food, presents and spending....though the commercialization sometimes makes some forget about that.  I've been known to be a little jaded during the holidays and that's why I started writing a holiday story last year. Well now, that story just recently had an addition, a sequel of sorts with the same characters. I've been told these stories are a great reminder of what the holiday season is about, and that's just the message I wanted to send.






It started with this book. A special wish from a little boy set in motion a chain of events that changed his life, and his mom's.

I'm going to be hosting a small giveaway here on my blog. One lucky commenter will win an e copy of this book, my debut.

Below is the blurb:



The magic of Christmas has been lost to Jacob Winston. At the suggestion of his ill sister, Jacob takes a job as a Secret Santa at the mall, hoping to restore his Christmas spirit. Even that doesn't seem to work, until a special little boy ambles up to make a very special wish...
Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex-husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter's existence and doesn't provide for the son he does. This Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last, until her son Ben's kind actions lead a stranger to them.
Ah, but it's Christmas time and the magic has begun.
When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, their feelings grow stronger and stronger.
With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life. Now, if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past.
Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true- for everyone after all.




And most recently, like...last week, I released the second book with the character, though the focus is on someone else. Robin is a secondary character in The Secret Santa Wishing Well, and in On the 12th Date of Christmas, gets her own story.



After being mugged, Robin Sorenson is left shaken and her spirit in humanity is broken. Worse, she's not sure how to deal with the new anxieties or who to confide in, since she's always preached to pick oneself up and move on. Yeah, she's been the go to girl when anyone's had problems. Christmas is coming, and her belief in magic and miracles has faded.

Then Jonas comes back.

Jonas Aimes made a mistake when he walked away from Robin a year earlier. A big one. He'd loved her, always had and still does, but his desire to please his aging and strict parents took precedence. Back from the overseas internship they'd struggled to get him in, he plans on winning Robin back. What he didn't count on was discovering the shell of the vivacious woman he'd loved.

Broken.

Remembering her love of Christmas, Jonas pulls the holiday heartstrings. What? All is fair and love and war, right?

Twelve days, Twelve Dates.

Robin is speechless when Jonas not only refuses to leave her alone, but dares her to accept his cheesy holiday-themed challenge. Twelve dates to give him a chance to prove that he loves her and is never leaving her again.

But in the season known for miracles, can Robin find the magic needed to open her heart and faith once more ... or will she forever wonder about the ghost of the Christmas past that could have been?




How do you win Secret Santa, you ask? Or maybe you don't but I'll tell you anyway. How about visit me on my Facebook page? Then just tell me there what you love most about the holidays.

https://www.facebook.com/NikkiLynnBarrettauthor


OR: Add my books on Goodreads! Just let me know in the comments on the blog :)
https://www.goodreads.com/author/dashboard


Good luck in the hop y'all! Hope you have fun, find some new authors, some recipes and maybe even win!


-Nikki Lynn

On the 12th Date of Christmas Cover Reveal

On The 12thDate of Christmas Cover RevealBy Nikki Lynn BarrettContemporary holiday romanceExpected release date: November 8, 2013

Blurb:

After being mugged, Robin Sorenson is left shaken and her spirit in humanity broken. Worse, she’s not sure how to deal with the new anxieties or who to confide in since she’s always preached to pick oneself up and move on. Yeah, she’s been the go to girl when anyone’s had problems.
Christmas is coming, and her belief in magic and miracles has faded. 

Then Jonas comes back.

Jonas Aimes made a mistake. A big one, when he walked away from Robin a year earlier. He’d loved her, always had and still does, but his desire to please his aging and strict parents took precedence. Back from the overseas internship they’d struggled to get him in, he plans on winning Robin back. What he didn’t count on was discovering the shell of the vivacious woman he’d loved.

Broken.

Remembering her love of Christmas, Jonas pulls the holiday heartstrings. What? All is fair and love and war. Right?

Twelve days, Twelve Dates.

Robin is speechless when Jonas not only refuses to leave her alone, but dares her to accept his cheesy holiday themed challenge. Twelve dates to give him a chance to prove he loves her and is never leaving her again.

But in the season known for miracles can Robin find the magic needed to open her heart and faith once more...or will she forever wonder about the ghost of the Christmas past that could have been?
Goodreads Link: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18483703-on-the-12th-date-of-christmas


Excerpt 
He took her hand in his as he reached for the keys with his other hand. “Why are we at a closed ice skating rink, Jonas?” He heard the wonder in her voice.“Because we're going skating, silly.” He shot a smile at her. “How did you-”“Hey. I'm in with Santa now, remember? I can't divulge all my secrets.” Her soft laughter and a squeeze to his hand warmed his heart, despite the icy chill around him. “I haven't been ice skating in years.”“Hmm. Out of practice? So if we were to race, I'd have a chance?” Jonas fingered the edge of her scarf, twirling the fringed ends with two fingers. “Oh please, you don't skate.” Robin scoffed. “Do you?”He laughed. “I love how you were so certain, then all of a sudden you had to question it. Maybe we should go in, lace up and I'll show you some moves.” “This I have to see!” Robin raised a perfectly arched brow. “Let's get to it, little lady.” Jonas closed and locked the door behind him. The lights buzzed as they came on, lighting up the place. With a flick of a few switches, everything would be ready for them soon. He hadn't been in here for quite some time, let alone when it was empty. This would be fun. He couldn't wait to get out on that ice. Hopefully, he wouldn't be leaving here with any sprained parts. He wasn't about to let on to Robin that he was very rusty at this. He stifled a laugh. Anticipation shot through his veins. He'd take this challenge. Robin was the first to get on the ice. As he finished lacing up, Jonas watched her gracefully move around. She went slow and steady at first, obviously testing out her balance. She did a small spin and as he caught sight of her face, he noticed the way her eyes lit up and her smile reached them. It would take more than these fun moments to show her who he'd become, and they would get to that. Communication definitely was a key. There were so many things unsaid, and while he knew they had to be spoken, he wondered how much of it would ruin the moments they shared.Doesn't matter. It all has to be done. The good and the bad. “Are you stalling?” She teased, making another loop. She seemed at ease. Jonas pointed to himself in mock horror. “You did not just accuse me of stalling.” “Oh, but I did. So come on out here and strut your stuff, before I accuse you of all talk and no action.” Another loop, faster this time. That woman taunted him. Jonas growled and tightened the last of the laces and eased himself onto the ice. “All talk and no action, huh? Watch this.” Gathering momentum and hoping for no epic fails, Jonas sped across the rink. Okay so far, so good. A little wobbly, but this wasn't as hard as he imagined. Then he got stupid, turned his head to flash her a smile and came crashing into the wall. “Ooph!” he shouted, landing on his ass. Robin covered her mouth with her hand. She tried her hardest not to let the laugh out, and failing miserably. She skated over to him and held a hand out. “It's not that funny.” He grumbled, rubbing his sore backside. The corners of his lips twitched. He couldn't keep the smile away. “Not a bad start, until you got cocky.” She teased. She helped him to his feet and he towered over her. He slid his arms around her waist and pulled her closer. “Your fault for showing off.” He teased, leaning in closer. He wanted to kiss her senseless and steal her breath away. That would get her to quit laughing at his attempts at being cool when it came to skating. “I think not. I won't take the blame for this one.” She said quietly. He cupped her face, loving the way she smiled at him. He ran a finger along her jaw, loving the sensations he felt while having her near. “Then take the blame for this.” Jonas closed the gap between them and kissed her.

Though it's not a series, and On the 12thDate of Christmas is a standalone book, Robin makes her first appearance in The Secret Santa Wishing Well. Readers have been asking for her story and of course, more of Cheyenne, Jacob and the kids.  

The Secret Santa Wishing Well Blurb:
The magic of Christmas has been lost to Jacob Winston. At the suggestion of his ill sister, Jacob takes a job as a Secret Santa at the mall, hoping to restore his Christmas spirit. Even that doesn’t seem to work, until a special little boy ambles up to make a very special wish... Cheyenne Jensen is struggling to raise her two kids without the help of her ex-husband who refuses to acknowledge his daughter’s existence and doesn’t provide for the son he does. This Christmas is shaping up to be as heartbreaking as the last, until her son Ben’s kind actions lead a stranger to them. Ah, but it’s Christmas time and the magic has begun. When Jacob and Cheyenne meet, neither can deny their immediate attraction to one another. As situations arise that require they spend more time together, their feelings grow stronger and stronger. With Christmas fast approaching, the pair learn what matters most in life. Now, if only they could ditch the ghost of Christmases past. Maybe this holiday will bring some wishes come true- for everyone after all.
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18308875-the-secret-santa-wishing-well
Giveaway: 3 e-copies of The Secret Santa Wishing Well



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