Mary E. Thompson's Blog, page 3

New Girl in Town

It’s never easy being the new person. In a small town where everyone knows everyone, you stick out like a sore thumb. It also means everyone is curious about you, and if you don’t want to get too close, that’s definitely not good.

Sara is running, constantly. She doesn’t like staying put for longer than a few months, so she packs up and moves to a new place, finding seasonal work wherever she ends up. Bereton is just the latest stop on a long road of stops. She has no interest in settling down, not even if the town is perfect, her job is fun, and she meets not one, but two cute guys in her first few days.

Sara’s the kind of person who likes to curl up with a book, because books don’t judge her. She’s happy with the way things are. At least, she tells herself she is. Sara’s searching for something, but she doesn’t know what it is. What she does know is she’ll never find it.

All’s Fair In Love And Wine is available June 25. Preorder today!

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Excerpt from All’s Fair In Love And Wine

Sara stopped short when she walked into the tasting room. Leo was talking to Peter. Both of them, together. The look in Leo’s eyes said he knew everything. 

She wasn’t sure how she felt about that. 

“Hi,” she said cheerfully, hoping both men bought it. 

“Hey!” Peter said with his trademark grin. His eyes lit up like they always did, and he hopped off his stool and went to her. “I didn’t know you were going to come here. I already ate. But this is good. You can meet Leo. He’s awesome. You two will get along great.” 

Peter turned and grinned at his buddy, the friend he’d been telling her about for weeks. If he only knew just how well she knew Leo, he wouldn’t be introducing them. 

“Uh, I already know Leo.” 

“You do?” Peter asked. His eyebrows drew together, confusion plain on his handsome face. 

Sara nodded. “Yeah, I—” 

“She came in here a few weeks ago for a tasting. It’s nice to see you again. Have you gone through all the wine you bought?” Leo said smoothly, holding her gaze. 

Sara’s heart sank. He didn’t want his best friend to know about them. About her. She was his dirty little secret. 

“This guy is a spectacular salesman. How much wine did he talk you into buying?” Peter asked. His grin was back. He shook his head at his friend, laughing like he was in on the joke. 

But the joke was Sara. She never saw people for who they were, just took them at face value. And ended up hurt for it.

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A little extra romance?

When 50 Shades of Grey came out, my husband encouraged me to buy it. He heard ‘good things’ about it, and said I should pick it up.

It didn’t quite have the effect he hoped for, but it made me think about reading. There are those books that keep you up all night because you’re worried that your significant other is really plotting your murder and if you go to sleep, you won’t wake up again. Yep, read one of those this week. Then there are those about struggles people have gone through (real or fiction, still serious struggles). Those make you think and appreciate everything you have.

And then there are romances.

When their eyes meet and her pulse races.

When they kiss for the first time and her lips tingle.

When a kiss leads to a lot more and…

Mission accomplished.

Hubby didn’t get what he bargained for when I read 50 Shades, but romance is very, very good for your sex life. It just has to be the right romance. Maybe you need something sweet. A story about childhood best friends falling in love. Or something a little funny with a friends or enemies to lovers story. Or something with an element of danger that makes you snuggle up close to him.

If you like the last one, Pilar and Jack could be the right couple for you. Her brother is kidnapped by her ex, and Jack’s there to protect her. Even though both of them know getting involved is a bad idea, neither can resist the thread that pulls them together. She’s his job, but one he’s more than willing to…do.

Tell us below if you like a little danger with your romance!



Click to buy First

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From First

“Jesus. You two need to break it up. This is a job, Jack. Not your personal fuck time. And that’s my damn couch, dude.” Howler whimpered. “I’m taking the dog out. When I get back in, please…don’t be naked on my couch.” 

Jack nodded and waited until the door slid closed behind Slade, then groaned. “You’re going to kill me.” 

Pilar giggled. “I’m sore, but I want you again.” 

Jack pulled back and looked at her. “Shower?” 

She grinned. “It’s economical. Saves time and water.” 

“Yeah, we’re saving the earth.” 

“Exactly,” she said.

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First…date?

A first date is a lot of pressure. You’re getting to know someone with the hope that you can find love. Even if you don’t go into it thinking long term, any date has the potential to turn into your last first date.

When I started dating my husband, I was fresh out of college and we were both broke. We went to dinner and a movie. Not very original, but we had a chance to get to know each other a little better over dinner, then the pressure was off during the movie. And we bonded over the fact that we ended up at the worst movie in history.

Last week we celebrated our 15th anniversary. He’s the first man I ever truly loved, and someone I can’t imagine not having in my life. And it was pretty fitting that First came out the same week as we were celebrating. Obviously, it’s been a long time since I went on a first date, though!

Jack and Pilar never got their first date. They met at a parade (which would have been a pretty fun first date), and went from first meet to moving in together in a few hours. Talk about moving fast!

Getting to know someone, especially if you didn’t know each other well before your first date, is a tall order. A first date should be fun. Something where you can get to know the other person. Some of my favorite dates have been ones where we get a little competitive – mini golf or go-kart racing or arcades. It’s a chance to show each other how you handle pressure, and how you handle losing (I’m not very good at either!). It also gives you the chance to play and tease and have some fun.

I had Jack and Pilar meet at a parade because it made sense for them. It showed that they’re both fun, lighthearted people who could laugh and be silly and have fun. Obviously, things didn’t exactly go as planned, but it was a great start for them. Who wouldn’t want to meet someone at a parade where you throw sausages and hit each other with pussy willows? Sounds fun, right?

What did you do on your best (or worst) first date?



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From First

Pilar took a deep breath and set her hand between his legs, connecting with the soft cushion. Before she could think about it, she pushed back and swung her top leg over his, balancing on one knee and the other foot. 

She looked up at him to make sure she didn’t wake him up and gasped, nearly falling back to the couch. 

“Nice moves,” he said. His voice was all rough and raspy like men’s voices were first thing in the morning. 

It was more than a little sexy, and coupled with the erection now very visible since she’d dragged the blanket off him, she was in serious trouble. “I was trying not to wake you.” 

“I’m already up,” he said, his gaze not leaving hers.

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She has the right amount of sass

I love a woman who’s going to fight back. One who won’t just sit back and let life happen to her. We all need a friend like that. Someone who will inspire us, drive us, encourage us.

Meet Pilar

She’s the kind of woman I want to be when I grow up. She’s smart and funny and compassionate. She’s a fighter and a lover and she doesn’t give up. She definitely has her moments, moments of self-doubt and paralyzing fear. But you know, shit’s going down in her world and she’s entitled to those emotions!

I frequently connect more to my heroines than I do my heroes. Not because they aren’t fabulous, but because I feel like she’s a new friend. As an adult, it’s tough to make new friends, but Pilar is my newest. She’s someone I’d sit down with in real life and enjoy a glass of wine with. Or a tequila, because she’s fun like that, too.

Get to know Pilar on April 30!

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From First

***The following excerpt is definitely Not Suitable for Work!***

“What the fuck?” Slade again. 

Jack finally opened an eye and saw Slade standing over them, phone in his hand. “Dude! Are you taking a picture?” Jack dragged the blanket up to cover Pilar. Her breasts were pressed against his chest, but nothing covered them above the waist. 

“I…No. Fuck, Jack. What did you do?” 

She kissed his chest. “I think that’s pretty obvious.” 

Jack snorted and kissed the top of her head. 

“Jesus. Are you two drunk? Or high?” 

“Tired,” Pilar said, pulling the blanket tight around her shoulders. “Didn’t get much sleep.” 

Jack grinned and palmed her ass. His hand was under the blanket so Slade couldn’t see. He knew there was a reason he was supposed to stay away from her, probably a hundred, but sometime during the night he stopped caring. All that mattered was Pilar and being what she needed. 

She moaned softly and wriggled closer to him. Her hand slid between them and wrapped around his cock. 

He saw stars.

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He’s like a lava cake

Jack Farrell is the kind of man you don’t have to work hard to like. He’s funny and sweet and oh, so very hot.

He’s like a lava cake.

I have to admit, I’ve been testing out mug cake recipes lately. A whole recipe just invites me to eat the whole thing, which is great and all, but then I feel sick. So a mug cake is perfect. And then I found lava mug cakes.

O. M. Yum.

But I digress, because this is about Jack, not the amazing lava mug cakes I found on Pinterest (you’re welcome).

Jack’s always been the smart ass of the group. We don’t know much about him because he’s the kind of guy who makes a joke and stirs the pot then walks away. He doesn’t get in deep, and he refuses to fall in love. Won’t even consider it.

Those are always the best ones to watch fall. Like a tree in the forest, he’s going down hard. (Oh, so many dirty jokes Jack is dying to say right now.)

Jack has his wounds. He has a few scars from his past. But he’s a good guy. He will always make you smile, and he’ll have you turned inside out so fast you won’t know what hit you.

Don’t worry, it’s just Jack. The lava cake man who burns hot, is sweet enough for a tooth ache, and will have you begging for more the minute you’re done.

Watch out, ladies. Jack’s coming April 30!

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From First

Jack grabbed her arm and yanked her back to him. Surprise tilted her off balance and she fell against him, her hand pressed against his bare chest. “We’re not done, Pilar.” 

“We’re not?” she asked. The gold flecks shined again. 

Jack shook his head and slowly lowered his head. She stared up at him as he came closer. The second their lips touched, her eyes fluttered closed. He thrust his tongue between her lips for a kiss that tortured both of them.

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Have you met Alvin?

Seven questions with Alvin Stone…

Name: Alvin Stone
Age: 38
Occupation: Bartender

What was your first tattoo?

Alvin: The band on my bicep. It reminded me I’m strong.

We can all tell you’re strong by looking at you. What would you say is your biggest strength?

A: Knowing when people need to talk. It’s a skill you pick up being behind the bar.

Do you have any weaknesses?

A: (Laughs) Absolutely. My biggest one is my friend’s kid, David. He’s an awesome little dude.

You said he’s your biggest one. Do you have more?

A: Definitely. A curvy woman will always bring me to my knees. Especially if she has a smart mouth and a killer smile.

Do you know any like that?

A: Nope.

Sounds like there’s more to that one, but we’ll ask a different question. What do you avoid more than anything in the world?

A: A second date.

Really? Why is that?

A: Is that question seven? (Smirks)

Uh, no. It’s a continuation of question six.

A: Trying to sneak an extra one in. I’ll allow it. Women get attached. I’m not built for forever. Not with a woman. I love kids, but having one means having his mother around, and I know better than to think I could deal with that forever.

If the right woman came along, would you want a family?

A: (Nods) Yeah. I’ve always wanted a family, but it’s not in the cards for me. It sucks, but what can you do.

There’s someone out there for you. You’ll find her.

A: (Smiles) Maybe. She’s gotta be pretty damn special to put up with me, though.

Read the rest of Alvin’s story now!

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Devil vs. Angel is here!

There are some books I write that I love. That from the very first word, I knew it was a book that was going to grab me and pull me along. Devil vs. Angel was not that book!

That’s not what you want to hear, but I’m all about telling the truth here, so I’m admitting it. I never really hit a stretch of time with this book where I could sit down and sink my teeth into it. Through writing and editing, I was pulled in so many different directions, I barely knew which way was up. I’d prefer to write a book, then go back and edit it later. That definitely didn’t happen the way I hoped!

In the end, I love this book. It was one I had to fight for, to make it something I was proud of, and I am. Alvin and Briella were sweet, and Kyle was so much fun to write. I guess all those snow days my kids had paid off with a little inspiration coming out on the page!

Sometimes I think these books are better, because I had to work for them. I had to analyze every word and think about every page. I hate it when I’m going through it, but once it’s over, I know it’s a damn good book because I worked hard to make sure it is. I hope you agree!

Excerpt from Devil vs. Angel

“Alvin,” she breathed, her eyes going wide as her chest rose and fell rapidly. 

I skimmed my hand up and down her back and turned her so she was shielded from the road if anyone drove by. I settled my hand on the small of her back and pressed her closer, letting her feel exactly how much I wanted her. 

With our gazes locked, I leaned in slowly, savoring every flutter of her breath, every hitch in her chest, every pulse of her need. Her eyelids eased shut, then blinked open. She wanted to watch this as much as I did. 

Our lips finally brushed. Still, we watched each other. Her eyes were bright and beautiful, staring into mine as I licked my way into her mouth. Her hands slid up my chest and found their way around my neck. She opened for me, her tentative tongue stroking alongside mine. 

I stepped closer, unable to resist pressing against her. She sucked in a sharp breath and her eyes fluttered closed once more. She pried them open, catching my gaze again. I pulsed my tongue into her mouth, then swept it around and stroked slowly against hers. Her entire body trembled. 

Her nails sank into my shoulders, urging me on. I had to touch her. To feel her soft skin under my fingertips. I was still cognizant of where we were, but there was a part of me that didn’t give a shit. This woman made me lose my mind. I had a singular purpose, and it centered around what she needed.

Available Today!

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Sweet and Tempting

When I first planned out the Opposites Attract series, I imagined Alvin with someone else. I’m not sure who, but that wasn’t the way things were supposed to go. But when I met Briella, I knew those two were going to end up together.

He’s always loved kids, but he has a big issue with their moms. Alvin’s the kind of guy who doesn’t want to be told what to do, ever. But Briella isn’t that woman. She’s the kind of woman who makes him laugh and forget that she’s someone he shouldn’t be interested in.

Briella’s had more than her share of disappointments in life. On the heels on her divorce, she has no interest in getting involved with a new guy. She has her guy. He’s seven and the most important man in her life.

Somewhere along the line, they become friends, but it isn’t enough. Of course, before we get there, things get a little tempting.

Excerpt from Devil vs. Angel

Briella had her back to me, but Kyle was smiling up at me. I high-fived him and invited him in, then caught Bri’s eye. Her brown eyes were wary as they took me in. She scanned me head to toe, making me stand up straighter in an effort to pass whatever test I was taking. 

While she looked, I did, too. She wore tan shorts that ended just above her knees. Tan sandals tied up her ankles and did crazy things to her legs, which I was picturing around my waist again. Her soft pink top made her olive skin glow. It hugged her breasts, and I was done for. 

Jesus. I’d never had that kind of reaction to Briella. I’d known her forever, but all of a sudden, she wasn’t Ada’s friend. She was just Briella. All grown up and sexy. And I was in trouble because she was also still broken from her marriage ending. 

I had to get my shit in line. This was about Kyle, and making both their lives easier, not me getting laid. 

“Can I come in, too?” she asked softly. 

I shook my head to clear it and stepped back. “Of course. Sorry.” 

She stepped inside, and that was when I realized she was carrying something. It smelled sweet and almost as tempting as her.

Available March 5



Preorder today!

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Movies that Make you Fall in Love

I love movies. Almost as much as I love books. Sometimes more, but there’s a time and place for both. It’s really disappointing to me that more romantic comedies don’t come to theaters, but I’m so excited to see Isn’t It Romantic. It looks hilarious! I haven’t seen it yet, but I have caught a few great romances lately that I wanted to share with you.

Romancing The Stone – yes, it’s an older movie. From 1984. But that doesn’t make it any less great. I saw it when I was young, but was recently reminded of it and had to watch it again. If you’re a PassionFlix subscriber, they have it!

The Kissing Booth – a Netflix original that will make you sigh and cry and laugh right along with the characters. Really cute movie with plenty of teenage hormones and lots of drama.

Dumplin’ – another Netflix original. It’s more women’s fiction than pure romance, but there’s a touch of romance in there. And for every curvy girl out there, you’ll want to be friends with Dumplin’.

Valentine’s Day – I mean, come on. It’s Valentine’s Day.

Sliding Doors – my favorite movie of all time. If you’re single and hating this week, this might be the movie for you. I always watch it when I’m wondering how things are going to work out. It’s a great movie, in my personal opinion of course!

What’s your favorite romance movie?

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Best Free Gifts for Valentine’s Day

This May will be my 15th anniversary. My husband and I have been together almost 17 years. And in all that time, I don’t think we’ve ever exchanged gifts for Valentine’s Day.

Some people would be pissed, but for us, it wasn’t that big of a deal. We also don’t do much for each other for Christmas or our birthdays. And that’s okay with us because we get each other little things through the year. Like the ice cream (my favorite) he bought me and hid in the freezer without telling me it was there. Or when he got me candy because he was thinking of me. Or when he picked up a book he knew I wanted.

Some of the best gifts don’t cost us anything. Those gifts are the ones that I love the most. The ones that come every day or once in a while, but that mean the most.

My Five Favorite Free Gifts

Say I love you. This is definitely my favorite, but it doesn’t take anything to do. We say it many times a day, but when it comes with a kiss and a hug and a moment for just the two of us, it’s a little extra special. And it’s nice to hear, even if it hasn’t been that long.

Share some adult time. Let’s be honest, men have a tendency to think with a certain part of their anatomy. Haven’t you heard they think about sex ten times a minute? Or something like that. If he’s thinking about it all the time, then he probably wants it. Put the kids to bed a little early and close (and lock) the bedroom door and have a little alone time. You’ll both enjoy it!

Cook dinner together. I don’t like to cook. I never have. Hubby is the cook in our house. He loves it, and that makes me happy. But the nights he’s cooking and in the kitchen for a while, I like to help him, or just stand there and talk to him. We put on a movie for the kids (especially if we’re having pancakes for dinner) and let them watch while we get a little while to talk and laugh and cook dinner together. Those are my favorite nights.

Make him something. When my kids have birthday parties, most of the time, they make a card for their friends. My son draws a picture of the recipient and wishes them a happy birthday. My daughter tends to cover hers with stickers. But when their friends get a card that was handmade and one of a kind, it’s special. Why not do that for him (or her)? Make him a card or coupons for future favors or write him a letter telling him all the things you love about him. Hell, if you’re an artist, paint him a picture or knit him some socks. The possibilities are endless, and it’ll mean more knowing you did something special just for him.

Watch a movie together. Maybe that’s not such a big deal, but it’s a Thursday night. You probably work tomorrow, so cuddling on the couch might not be something you do every Thursday. Pick out a movie neither of you have seen and curl up together to watch it.

None of this is groundbreaking, but that’s why it’s so special. These are things you can do every day to tell him you love him. And hopefully he’ll return the favor and do some of these things for you, too!

How are you spending Valentine’s Day?

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