A Rivalry of Hearts (Fae Flings and Corset Strings, #1)

by Tessonja Odette

I lift my chin, retrieve the crooked book, and place it neatly on top of the stack. “Author of smut and drivel.”

That’s how he greets me? No formal introduction? No, Sorry I made an ass of myself with that poor first impression. I never should have insulted your life’s work by calling it smut and drivel. Let’s start over?

“No, Mr. Haywood, I’m not your competition. We don’t write in the same genre. We don’t share the same readers. But for some asinine reason, we’ve been forced to share this tour. What was supposed to be my tour. You’re lucky to be involved at all, so I suggest you get down from your high horse and thank me for being late and bestowing upon you the honor of being in my company.”

Get it!

His cheeks must ache after donning such a contrived expression without end.

Fourteen Ways to Die in Faerwyvae: Arrogant Fae Poet Edition.

Love it

“This?” He frowns and takes a drag from the cigarillo he holds between two fingers. “Water. I don’t imbibe anymore. I’m a working man now. Responsible.” He says it with very little enthusiasm, then throws back a swallow of his benign beverage with the gusto of a man who must have once imbibed a great deal.

I’m more sober than I’ve ever been, and my hair looks fantastic. I’ve already restyled it four times all without the aid of a mirror because I can tell, just by the weight of the pins securing my tresses to the left side of my head above my ear, that I’ve just started a fashion trend. William keeps glancing at me from across the table where he chats with Arwen, so I know I’ve increased my allure.

Totally the thoughts of someone who is, indeed, inebriated

“I won’t keep you here,” I whisper, “but please come back to me if you find it in your heart to want to work this out. I know you’re hurt, and I understand why. I know this fight feels fucking horrible, but please, Edwina. Please don’t let this end what we’ve begun.”