Book Review – The Gritty Truth

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Melissa Foster, The Whiskeys series, The Gritty Truth

With over 75% 5 Star reviews on Goodreads, I’m not really sure what I can tell you except that you really need to read this book.

*****

A fun, sexy, and emotionally riveting new standalone romance by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster.

THE GRITTY TRUTH is the perfect love story for those who enjoy fiercely loyal and insanely sexy alpha heroes, smart, sassy heroines, strong family bonds, bikers, babies, and more!

Recovering drug addict Quincy Gritt has fought his demons. He’s confessed to his crimes and conquered his addictions. He’s finally ready to go after sweet, sexy Roni, the gorgeous brunette who won a date with him in a charity auction five months ago and has been putting him off, and driving him wild, ever since

Dancer Veronica “Roni” Wescott worked hard to escape the seedy area where she was raised and followed her dreams to Julliard, only to have them shattered in the blink of an eye. She fought hard and regained her footing, but then the rug was pulled out from under her again when the grandmother who raised her passed away, leaving Roni feeling adrift in a world she knows very little about outside of dance. And then there’s Charlie Hunnam–lookalike Quincy Gritt—the man whose late-night texts pulled her through her grief and have been setting her heart aflutter for months.

Quincy pulls out all the stops, determined to prove that their friendship is only the beginning of what’s destined to be so much more. Romantic nights lead to smoldering passion and a deep connection too strong to be denied. But when Quincy’s past comes back to haunt him, can he and Roni accept their new gritty truth, or will Quincy spiral back into the darkness and lose the future he fought so hard to have?

The Whiskeys are perfect beach reads with depth of story, strong family ties, and a wealth of emotions. Small town love stories with happily ever afters guaranteed.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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Also coming to audio!

*****

I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

Review:

Those who have read the series already know that Quincy Gritt has lived a pretty messed up life but has worked hard to get clean & make a healthy, satisfying life for himself, one that he can be proud of. He’s managed to stay clean and surround himself with a group of friends and family that will be there whatever may come, and after meeting Roni he knows that he’s just missing that last connection.

While Roni never dealt with an addiction, her life so far hasn’t been the easiest either. She grew up in a rough neighborhood but with the love of her grandmother and a talent for dance, she found a way to get out. Then a terrible accident changed everything. Back home and teaching dance classes, she’s working to find what her future might bring and Quincy is there to tempt her with possibilities. But is she willing to take him on knowing his background?

These two together are just the best. Quincy has such an appealing openness to his thoughts and feelings because of his recovery. It’s refreshing and helps to draw in Roni, whose history has left her missing a lot of the social opportunities that most of us take for granted. Years spent concentrating almost exclusively on dancing means she missed out on parties, dating, and teenage rights of passage. But Quincy is just the person to open up those possibilities and show Roni what she can have with the right partner.

Sweetness, honesty, and support are front and center in Foster’s newest and she delivers them all in spades.

*****

For more hot Whiskey love, check out Melissa’s other Whiskey novels.
TRU BLUE
TRULY MADLY WHISKEY
DRIVING WHISKEY WILD
WICKED WHISKEY LOVE
MAD ABOUT MOON
TAMING MY WHISKEY
THE GRITTY TRUTH
IN FOR A PENNY (A WHISKEY NOVELLA) releasing 9th December!
And don’t miss RIVER OF LOVE, the first story in which the Whiskeys were introduced!

“Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!”– New York Times Bestseller Lauren Blakely

“You can always rely on Melissa Foster to deliver a story that’s fresh, emotional and entertaining. Make sure you have all night, because once you start you won’t want to stop reading. Every book’s a winner!”– NYT Bestselling Author Brenda Novak

“Melissa Foster writes worlds that draw you in, with strong heroes and brave heroines surrounded by a community that makes you want to crawl right on through the page and live there.”– New York Times bestselling author Julia Kent

In TRU BLUE…

There’s nothing Truman Gritt won’t do to protect his family–Including spending years in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. When he’s finally released, the life he knew is turned upside down by his mother’s overdose, and Truman steps in to raise the children she’s left behind. Truman’s hard, he’s secretive, and he’s trying to save a brother who’s even more broken than he is. He’s never needed help in his life, and when beautiful Gemma Wright tries to step in, he’s less than accepting. But Gemma has a way of slithering into people’s lives and eventually she pierces through his ironclad heart. When Truman’s dark past collides with his future, his loyalties will be tested, and he’ll be faced with his toughest decision yet.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In TRULY, MADLY, WHISKEY…

Eight months is a long damn time to have the hots for a woman who keeps a guy at arm’s length. But Crystal Moon is no ordinary woman. She’s a sinfully sexy, sass-mouthed badass, and the subject of Bear Whiskey’s midnight fantasies. She’s also one of his closest friends.

Just when Crystal thinks she has her life under control, scorching-hot, possessive, aggressive, and fiercely loyal Bear pushes all her sexual buttons, relentless in his pursuit to make her his.

The more Bear pushes, the hotter their passion burns, unearthing memories for Crystal that are best kept buried. But there’s no stopping the collision of her past and present, catapulting the two lovers down an emotionally charged road that has them questioning all they thought they knew about themselves.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In DRIVING WHISKEY WILD…

Special Forces veteran and Dark Knights Motorcycle Club member Bullet Whiskey lives to protect his family, their bar, and the residents of his small hometown. He’s rough, unapologetic, and haunted by a secret, painful past. He’s also a master at keeping people away, and when his sister hires gorgeous and sweet Finlay Wilson to help expand their biker bar, he knows just how to get rid of her.

After losing her boyfriend and her father, Finlay moves back to her hometown to be closer to the little family she has left. She needs her temporary job at Whiskey Bro’s to get her catering business off the ground, and she’s determined not to let the gruff, arrogant mountain of a man Bullet Whiskey scare her off.

Finlay is everything Bullet has never wanted. She’s afraid of his dog, afraid of motorcycles, and sweet enough to give him cavities, but as she weaves her way into the hearts of everyone around him, he’s powerless to resist her charms. Passion ignites, but trust doesn’t come easily, and when their pasts collide, Bullet finds out the true meaning of protecting those he loves.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In WICKED WHISKEY LOVE…

After escaping abusive parents and, later, an abusive relationship, Sarah Beckley has spent a lifetime watching snakes shed their skin. With two small children to care for and another on the way, she’s finally found a home in Peaceful Harbor with the brother she hasn’t seen in more than a decade. She’s still searching for her sister, but life is good. If only she could stop thinking about the sinfully sexy doctor/biker who has taken to her children like a loving uncle–and to her like a hungry man.

Trust doesn’t come easily for Sarah, but Bones Whiskey is patient and protective, amazing with her children, and he looks at her like she is the only woman he could ever want–and more. With two little ones underfoot, Sarah expects him to move on quickly, yet with every tender kiss and each trying moment with the children, Bones surprises her. But will the fiercely loyal biker stick around when Sarah’s worst secret is revealed, or will he shed his skin, too?

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In MAD ABOUT MOON…

Can true love strike twice in one lifetime?

Josie Beckley refuses to believe there is a limit on happiness. A decade after she escaped her abusive parents and lost touch with her siblings, the death of her husband leaves her and her son homeless. But Josie has never been one to wallow in sadness, and when she takes a chance on reconnecting with her siblings, a sinfully handsome bright light from her past shows up and offers to help her find a way out of the darkness.

Most people wouldn’t see Jed Moon as someone to look up to. He’s been in and out of jail and has lived a less-than-stellar lifestyle. But years ago one woman saw through his bullshit, and he’s never forgotten her. Now she’s back in his life, and as a prospect for the Dark Knights motorcycle club, Jed promises to keep an eye on the sassy, sexy single mother who has never stopped lighting his fantasies on fire.

Jed and Josie’s combustible connection is stronger than ever. Having Josie and her son in his life brings out all of Jed’s protective instincts-and visions of a future he never imagined having. But when a shocking revelation knocks the insatiable lovers to their knees, it forces them to make choices that could change their lives forever.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In TAMING MY WHISKEY…

Being the princess of the Dark Knights motorcycle club doesn’t come with a white knight or a fairy-tale castle, and that’s okay, because Dixie Whiskey has never needed a man to slay her dragons or make her whole. Even so, after watching each of her brothers fall in love, she’d sure like a shot at her own happily ever after. But with the Dark Knights watching over her and the only man she’s ever wanted out of reach, she’s not holding her breath.

As the launch of Silver-Stone Cycles’ biggest line approaches, Jace Stone is left needing a favor from the one woman who holds the power to take him to his knees. He knows when it comes to sinfully gorgeous and sharp-tongued Dixie Whiskey, he must stay on his toes and keep his walls firmly in place. But Jace needs her for his business—and Jace Stone always gets what he wants.

When the tall, gruff, and darkly handsome biker presents an opportunity that any other woman might see as the chance of a lifetime, Dixie turns him down flat. But Jace is determined, and he pulls out all the stops—sending Dixie’s overprotective brothers up in arms. Rebellious Dixie takes a stand—going after the freedom, and the man, she’s always wanted. One scorching kiss leads to an undeniable connection, but Jace isn’t looking to be tied down, and Dixie refuses to play second fiddle. Can two untameable hearts find forever love in each other’s arms?

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   KOBO   Apple   GPlay   Paperback

Releasing 9th December!
IN FOR A PENNY

Friendships and family abound during a week of love, laughter, and happily ever afters.

Catch up with your favorite characters and enjoy Bones and Sarah’s wedding while falling in love with the newest Whiskey-world couple, Penny Wilson and Scott Beckley in this Whiskey series novella.

When everything you want is right in front of you, but it’s still out of reach…

Penny Wilson has a successful business, more friends than a girl could ask for, and a boyfriend she’s madly and passionately in love with. Scott Beckley is honest, loyal, hands down the best lover on the planet, and absolutely gaga over his nieces and nephews. Scott’s a keeper…as long as Penny doesn’t ever want to hear those three magical words that would take their relationship to the next level. Scott escaped abusive parents at seventeen and was forced to find his way alone in the world. Even though it’s been more than a decade and he’s reunited with his estranged sisters and built a good life in Peaceful Harbor, Maryland, he’s still tortured by his past. Penny knows he loves her with everything he has, but for a girl who wants a family and a guy who is afraid of having one, love might not be enough.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   KOBO   Apple   GPlay   Paperback

*****

Author Info:
Melissa Foster is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance and new adult romance lovers who enjoy reading about loyal, wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines with complex relatable issues.

Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name Addison Cole.

Melissa enjoys chatting with readers and book clubs. Send her an email invitation to your next event!

Never miss a brand new release, special promotions or inside gossip again by simply signing up to receive your newsletter from Melissa.

Find Melissa on the following sites….
Website   Facebook   Twitter   Instgram   Pinterest   Goodreads   Bookbub   Amazon Author Page

Click to get your FREE Love in Bloom Series Reading Order

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*****

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Spotlight – After Hours Redemption

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After Hours Redemption, Kianna Alexander

Their red-hot reunion is off the charts!

*****

After Hours Redemption

by Kianna Alexander

Blurb:

They made passionate music together. Has this heartbreaker changed his tune?

Songwriter Eden Voss had the perfect man—sexy, charming, talented and hers. Until record executive Blaine Woodson broke her heart to save his fledging label. Now music’s bad boy is back, begging for her songwriting skills in his studio…and her lovemaking skills after hours. Eden vows to keep things strictly business this time. But there is nothing professional about the heat still between them…

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/after-hours-redemption-kianna-alexander/1136616631?ean=9781335209429

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/After-Hours-Redemption-404-Sound/dp/1335209425

Google: https://books.google.ca/books/about/After_Hours_Redemption.html?id=CmdrzQEACAAJ&redir_esc=y

Indie Bound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781335209429

Harlequin: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781488063213_after-hours-redemption.html

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52513414-after-hours-redemption

*****

Excerpt:

“Mind telling me why you insisted on coming here?” He eyed her curiously.

She tugged him along by the hand, around the circular path leading to the Clara Meer Dock. When they came to a stop, she pointed. “This is why I wanted to come here.”

He looked out, his eyes scanning the dark, glassy surface of Lake Clara Meer. “I’m guessing you come here often?”

She nodded. “This is my thinking spot. Whenever I’m working on lyrics and I can’t quite get it right, I come here. I spread my blanket out on the grass, sit down with my notepad and work it out.”

He looked at her skeptically. “So, did we come here to work?”

“Nah.” She shook her head. “It’s Saturday night, after all. I brought you here to talk.”

He frowned. “I’m still confused.”

She started walking over to the grassy patch overlooking the water and the dock and spread out the blanket there. “Something about this place always seems to bring me clarity. It’s a little slice of heaven, right in the middle of the city. It’s bound to inspire some pretty deep conversation between us.” She sat down, careful not to let her dress ride up till heaven and earth were filled with her glory. Then she patted the empty spot next to her.

He hesitated, standing there on the concrete path, looking a bit baffled.

“You scared, Blaine?” She faked a pout, sticking her lip out as she teased him. “Of little old me?”

He rolled his eyes, but his smile was evident as he joined her on the blanket. “You’re too much, Eden.”

“So, we’re basically alone now.” Or at least as close to alone as we’re gonna get without me crawling into your lap. She watched him, taking in his moon-dappled handsomeness. The dim lighting seemed to enhance his features, especially the golden flecks in his dark eyes. He was temptation in the flesh; her body craved him even though her mind knew better than to get lost in him again. The question was, how much longer would she be able to lead with logic? “What do you want to talk about?”

He cleared his throat. “If I’m being honest…”

“Please do,” she encouraged.

“I want to talk about kissing you again.” His deep baritone had each word dripping with sensual energy.

Warmth raced through her body, and she felt it pool in her cheeks, her chest and a bit farther south. “Blaine.” She meant it as chastisement, but it came out sounding far sultrier than she’d intended.

He shrugged. “Can’t blame a brotha for shooting his shot.”

“I guess not.” She chuckled, from both amusement and nerves. “I don’t know if we should lead with talking about kissing, though.”

“Why not?” He gave her a wicked look. “Did you enjoy the kiss?”

She swallowed and needing a respite from the intensity of his gaze, she looked down at her lap. Her dress had crept up her to mid-thigh, so she tugged the end a bit. “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it. But that’s beside the point.”

“If you say so.”

She shook her head. Same old Blaine. Always charming, never reflective. “There’s too much in our past that you’re not considering, Blaine. We can’t just ignore our history.”

“Who said I’m ignoring it?” He traced a finger along her lower leg, trailing from her knee to the top of her sandal-encased foot. “What I know about you, our ‘history’ as you call it, is precisely why I want you.”

She drew a deep breath. Was he misremembering? Or was he really so clueless that he didn’t understand where she was coming from? “You know your decision to cut Ainsley and me from the group effectively ended both of our singing careers, right? Not to mention how much it hurt me personally. You have to realize the impact of that.”

*****

Author Info:

Like any good Southern belle, Kianna Alexander wears many hats: loving wife, doting mama, advice-dispensing sister, and gabbing girlfriend. She’s a voracious reader, an amateur seamstress and occasional painter in oils. Chocolate, American history, sweet tea, and Idris Elba are a few of her favorite things. A native of the TarHeel state, Kianna still lives there with her husband, two kids, and a collection of well-loved vintage 80’s Barbie dolls.

Website: http://authorkiannaalexander.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiannaalexanderwrites/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KiannaWrites

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

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3029237.Kianna_Alexander

*****

Spotlight – The Last Rule of Makeups

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Breakup Bash series, Nina Crespo, The Last Rule of Makeups

Early readers are loving Crespo’s newest book. Get your copy to find out why!

*****

The Last Rule of Makeups

Breakup Bash series

by Nina Crespo

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

Cori Ross is thanking her lucky stars. Sure, her long-time boyfriend just dumped her, but that’s a good thing. In her rush to find Mr. Right, she realizes she almost settled for Mr. Just Okay. And that’s definitely not okay. So, tonight, she’s out with her friends at the Breakup Bash—a private party for women celebrating their break-ups—and she’s actually celebrating. Still, it was too close a call. So she makes a deal with herself—no guys for six months.

Unfortunately, just as she’s leaving the club, she runs into her old boyfriend, Grey Latham—the guy she’d always wanted to be Mr. Right. Great. What a time to swear off guys. Maybe she needs to change the deal—no relationships for six months. There’s no reason why she can’t have a fling, right? Because Grey still holds the title of the best sex she’s ever had.

There’s no way this could go wrong. Grey is on his way to international DJ fame—he’s only in town for a short time, and then he’ll be gone again. No harm in burning up the sheets while it lasts.

Too bad neither expected what happened next…

Get Your Copy:

Amazon | Apple | B&N | Kobo | Google+

Catch up on the Series:

The First Rule of Hook-Ups

Rules of a Rebound

*****

Excerpt:

She leaned back against the wall. “Yes. Please tell me my shoe isn’t ripped.”

As he placed her foot on his thigh, the area near the top of her shoe throbbed. “You’re not bleeding. That’s what’s important. The top of your shoe is just scuffed.” The glide of his palm down her calf left a trail of tingles that traveled to her toes, momentarily distracting her from the pain. “We can go upstairs to the table Damien reserved for his guests in the VIP section. I can get some ice from the bar to cut back on the swelling. Do you think you can make it up the stairs or do you need me to carry you?”

“You mean the VIP table you’re sharing with the blonde and the woman who was giving me the stink-eye? No, thank you.” She took her foot from his thigh.

He stood. “Damien made sure the table was large enough for us and anyone else we wanted to bring.” He lightly grasped her shoulders. “You’re with me, and I couldn’t care less how Emery feels about it. I just want to make sure you’re okay.”

Cori let the pleasure of knowing he cared about what happened to her over everything else seep through the cracks in her confidence that had appeared after her breakup with Kevin.

The way he’d walked out on her, as if she’d meant nothing to him, had left her swinging on an emotional pendulum from feeling fragile to angry. And it was so damn exhausting.

“So.” Grey looked at her from eye level. “Tell me what you want to do. Are you coming with me?”

Coming with him? Her mind went rogue with images of them between the sheets and how the first glide in of his cock used to make her tremble with need. The way he’d rolled his hips, thrusting into her slowly, deeply, then faster and faster, and—

No. That’s not what he meant. She closed her eyes, wiping away the image, but desire remained.

Those few minutes of dancing with Grey had been amazing, and so were her memories of them in bed. Would having sex with him still be that good? Not that she wanted to relive the past. What was the Breakup Bash motto? Get over one man and move on to a better one? And at the moment, Grey definitely qualified as better, and being with him fit right into her no-relationships plan. And exploring every inch of him until morning would make her very, very happy.

Cori opened her eyes. Ignoring slight pinpricks of pain in her foot, she rose to her toes and slid her arms up Grey’s chest and around his neck.

As she leaned into him, he slid his hands to her back and widened his stance. “Have you made a decision?”

“Almost.”

*****

Author Info:

Nina Crespo lives in Florida where she indulges in her favorite passions — the beach, a good glass of wine, date night with her own real-life hero and dancing.

Her lifelong addiction to romance began in her teens while on a “borrowing spree” in her older sister’s bedroom where she discovered her first romance novel.

Let Nina’s sensual contemporary stories and steamy paranormal tales feed your own addiction for love, romance, and happily ever after.

Stay connected with Nina on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or through her newsletter.

Connect with Nina

Instagram | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Bookbub

*****

Giveaway:

$10 Amazon Giftcard & Signed copies of Breakup Bash Book 1 & 2

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/4cf78adb913/

*****

Spotlight – The Opposite of Falling

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Jillian Liota, The Opposite of Falling

This has got to be one of my favorite covers that I’ve seen lately. If the inside is anything like the outside, it’s gonna be fabulous!

*****

The Opposite of Falling

by Jillian Liota

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

BRIAR MITCHELL is home in Cedar Point – single, broke and unemployed. Back in the town she tried so hard not to get stuck in. A job at the local grocery will have to do until she figures out what’s next, even if it means working for her teenage crush. Not that he noticed her back then.

ANDY MARSHALL has always loved the small town life. Things might be rough at the moment – the family business is struggling and his dad’s health has taken a turn – but he’s trudging forward. What he doesn’t see coming is the attraction he feels towards his newest employee.

Choosing to explore their instant chemistry, Briar and Andy embark on a no-strings ride they hope will provide a few things they each desperately need. Sweet friendship, sexy fun, and a chance to escape from a life that isn’t going according to plan.

But in the face of a town disaster, they start to realize that maybe there’s something more between them. Something with a depth they weren’t expecting. Something that feels a lot like falling in love.

Get Your Copy Today!

*****

Excerpt:

I scrub my hands over my face, wondering what the hell is wrong with me, wishing I’d kept my damn eyes to myself. Now I’m worried I’ve made her uncomfortable on her first day by staring at her mouth, at those light pink lips I’m starting to wonder more about…

How they taste.

How soft they feel.

What they’ll look like wrapped around my…

I let my head fall back, my eyes closed as I try to think of other things. Baseball stats and naked grandmothers, right? Isn’t that what’s supposed to help?

God, I haven’t had to do this in years. It feels ridiculous to be sitting in my office trying to get rid of the hardness that’s growing in my pants at the thought of Briar on her knees. What am I, a teenager? Getting turned on at just the thought of a beautiful woman?

And it’s not just any woman. It’s Briar Mitchell.

Boyd’s sister. My new employee.

But now that the door has been opened, I’m unable to close it, and my mind begins to ramble through the weeds. Thinking about her thick hair and beautiful eyes, the small swell on her chest and those slender hips that lead to legs that are a mile long.

Maybe most guys wouldn’t blink at allowing a momentary daydream like the ones that keep popping into my mind about Briar, but I’ve never made a habit of spending too much time dwelling on women I know aren’t for me.

I know what I want in life. I want to find someone to settle down with. Someone to have a family with. Here, in Cedar Point. Briar is not that woman, and the fact that I can’t seem to get that through my head is just…it’s infuriating.

But damn if the idea of something short and sweet with Briar isn’t enough to get the heat climbing up my neck, making me wonder whether having a little bit of fun couldn’t be something to enjoy, at least while she’s in town.

Though even thinking that kind of thing about my new employee would have my dad finally sitting up and barking at me.

Huh. Maybe if I tell him about my sudden interest in Briar, he’ll be pissed enough to get out of this funk he’s been in.

That actually makes me laugh a little bit, and I finally manage to shake out my tense shoulders and turn my attention to the work in front of me.

I take all of my thoughts of Briar—the friendly ones and the dirty ones in kind—and place them firmly on the to handle later shelf in my mind.

It will still be there to ponder when the day is done.

*****

Author Info:

Jillian Liota is a new author writing contemporary romance and new adult fiction. She lives in Kailua, Hawaii with her amazing husband, 2 cats, and 3-legged pup. 

She is the author of the new adult romance novel The Keeper, which focuses on a female college soccer goalie, as well as the follow up novella, Keep Away. Her newest release, Like You Mean It, is in the contemporary romance genre and has a more mature voice, as it follows a pregnant mother finding love in a new town. The next novel in the Like You Series, Like You Want It, will be published in Spring 2019

She has a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs, and she is passionate about all things improvement, development and organization.

She’s also a big fan of taking walks with her husband and dog Maia, reading romance (obviously), watching a handful of horrible reality TV shows, and exploring the island she calls home. Check out her Contact page for more information on how to connect.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Email

*****

Spotlight – Her Sweet Temptation

Tags

Her Sweet Temptation, Nina Crespo

When good things come in bad-boy packages.

*****

Her Sweet Temptation

by Nina Crespo

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

She vows to find the right kind of guy but a tempting stranger challenges everything…

“Bad Choices” should have been Rina Tillbridge’s middle name and it’s time to turn over a new leaf. But when stuntman Scott Halsey struts onto her property for his latest film, her impulsive alter ego threatens to make a comeback. The quintessential thrill-seeking stuntman has no designs on commitment. So why are all his red flags igniting white-hot passion…and inspiring dreams of a Hollywood ending?

Amazon | Amazon Paperback | Apple Books | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | Google | Author Website | Bookshop.org | Walmart | Target | Indiebound.org | Books A Million | Harlequin

*****

Excerpt:

“Tears that wouldn’t fall stung in her eyes.

The front passenger side door opened and Scott stood there. When had he gotten out of the driver’s seat? He held out his hand.

She took it and as soon as she got out, he enfolded her in his arms.

Scott’s long exhale blew over her temple as he tightened his hold. Solid strength seeped into her. “Thank you for telling me.”

Rina held her breath, waiting, but he didn’t say it. Scott hadn’t said the word she’d forced herself to nod or smile through even though it felt like a dagger in her heart. Sorry for your loss. Sorry this happened to you. Sorry, we have to operate on your leg again. Sorry, the funeral already happened. Sorry, Xavier’s family doesn’t wish to speak with you. Sorry…

She looked up into Scott’s unwavering gaze and tears escaped from her eyes. In the short time they’d known each other, he always knew what she needed to hear and how to show up for her. Even now, as she looked in his eyes, she could see that he knew.

“Scott covered her mouth with his and the loss of the past started to recede in the firm pressure of his lips. The way he boldly swept in when she opened to him conveyed what she needed to feel. Alive. And what she strived so hard to be. Authentic in who she was now and not governed by her past.

She’d confronted her worst memory, and for the first time, she felt as if she hadn’t looked into the void alone. Scott had done it with her and he wasn’t shying away or treating her differently. What they felt for each other hadn’t changed.

As Scott eased back, he stroked her cheek, searching her eyes.

Rina already knew the answer to the question in his. She was absolutely sure what she wanted. To let go and focus on now. She just wanted to enjoy being with him.

*****

Author Info:

Nina Crespo lives in Florida where she indulges in her favorite passions — the beach, a good glass of wine, date night with her own real-life hero and dancing.

Her lifelong addiction to romance began in her teens while on a “borrowing spree” in her older sister’s bedroom where she discovered her first romance novel.

Let Nina’s sensual contemporary stories and steamy paranormal tales feed your own addiction for love, romance, and happily ever after.

Stay connected with Nina on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest or through her newsletter.

Instagram | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Bookbub

*****

Giveaway:

2 Signed Copy of THE COWBOY’S CLAIM (US Only)

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/4cf78adb910/

*****

Spotlight – Home for the Baby’s Sake

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Christine Rimmer, Home for the Baby's Sake

Home for the Baby’s Sake

by Christine Rimmer

Blurb:

He’d do anything for his son…including returning to the town he left behind.

Valentine Bay’s the perfect place for real estate developer Roman Marek to raise his infant son. But when he snaps up the charming local theater, he doesn’t bargain for tempestuous director Hailey Bravo. Hailey won’t let Roman wreck the thing she holds most dear—and she’s certainly gotten under Roman’s notoriously thick skin. As the duo spar and sparks fly, Roman’s surprised to find that Hailey’s the perfect missing piece for his family. But how can he convince her that this partnership’s for keeps?

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/home-for-the-babys-sake-christine-rimmer/1136387506?ean=9781335894847

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Home-Babys-Mills-Bravos-Valentine-ebook/dp/B0876JM6HG

Google: https://books.google.ca/books/about/Home_for_the_Baby_s_Sake.html?id=kevODwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y

Indie Bound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781335894847

Harlequin: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781488070112_home-for-the-babys-sake.html

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51183107-home-for-the-baby-s-sake

*****

Excerpt:

When she arrived at the fish place on Ocean Road, Roman was waiting outside for her, leaning against a sleek black sports car—the famous one made in Italy, with doors that opened upward, like wings.

“This car,” she said, shaking her head, trailing a finger along the gleaming hood. “You’d better write the arts council a check, Roman Marek.”

He put his hand to his broad, hard chest, right over his heart. “You have my solemn word on that.”

They went inside. The food was excellent, as always, and being with Roman was easy and fun. Even the silences were comfortable. He said he’d moved back to town from Las Vegas and bought a house on Treasure Cove Circle. Hailey knew the house. It was a mansion nestled in its own private oceanfront reserve, surrounded by beautiful old-growth forest, overlooking a secluded stretch of beach.

“I want to see you again,” he said as he walked her back out to her car. She gave him her number and when he gathered her close, she didn’t resist.

The kiss was just right, a tender, sweet getting-to-know-you kind of kiss. His lips felt so good brushing against her own, and excitement sizzled through her. They both pulled back slowly and just stood there at the driver’s door of her Kia Sportage, grinning at each other for a long string of lovely seconds.

“See you soon,” he said as he pulled open the driver’s door for her.

She climbed in and he shut the door. Then he stood there, the afternoon sun gleaming on his dark brown hair, as she backed from the parking space and drove away.

For the rest of the day, Hailey felt like the living, breathing representation of some old romantic song. She walked on air and danced on clouds. She’d met a guy she wanted to see again. That hadn’t happened since Nathan.

She couldn’t stop smiling as she sat at the kitchen table in the family cottage she shared with Harper and worked on her plans for the Christmas show—which desperately needed an actual name. Later in the afternoon, she was back at the theater, greeting the parents as they dropped off their children for Fall Revue rehearsals.

It was the usual circus, corralling all the kids, giving them instructions that they immediately forgot. There was some pushing and one of the little girls cried. Hailey consoled and coaxed and loved every minute of it—she always did. But somehow, more so today.

Because she kind of had butterflies over Roman Marek, and for three long years she’d honestly believed that all her butterflies had shriveled up and died.

*****

Author Info:

A New York Times bestselling author, Christine Rimmer has written over ninety contemporary romances for Harlequin Books. Christine has won the Romantic Times BOOKreviews Reviewers Choice Award and has been nominated six times for the RITA Award. She lives in Oregon with her family. Visit Christine at http://www.christinerimmer.com.

Website: https://www.christinerimmer.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinerimmerauthor/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RimmerChristine

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinerimmerauthor?ref=hl

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21949.Christine_Rimmer

*****

 

Spotlight – Alaskan Christmas Redemption

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Alaskan Christmas Redemption, Belle Calhoune

Alaskan Christmas Redemption

by Belle Calhoune

Blurb:

Some secrets are meant to be shared.

Before he gives his heart…

he’ll have to forgive himself.

Returning to Owl Creek after years away, Braden North’s determined to help his best friend, Piper Miller, save her failing diner. But as they work to revitalize her business, Braden’s convinced he must hide the truth about a tragedy from their past…or risk losing Piper for good. If he can find the courage, might telling her everything make this Christmas a time for healing and forgiveness?

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/alaskan-christmas-redemption-belle-calhoune/1136624444?ean=9781335488459

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Alaskan-Christmas-Redemption-Home-Creek/dp/1335488456

Google: https://books.google.ca/books/about/Alaskan_Christmas_Redemption.html?id=N_LrDwAAQBAJ&redir_esc=y

Indie Bound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781335488459

Harlequin: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781335553935_alaskan-christmas-redemption.html

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52515535-alaskan-christmas-redemption

*****

Excerpt:

Braden watched as Piper’s eyes widened with surprise. The shock on her face made him want to laugh out loud, but he knew the situation was far from humorous. The Snowy Owl Diner was at stake, and although he’d agreed to provide his assistance, he wasn’t sure if Piper even believed it could be saved. From this point forward, she would have to tell him everything about her situation. He would have to look over the books with a fine-tooth comb. If he was truly going to help her, he needed to understand exactly what she was facing. The good, the bad and the ugly.

“A-are you serious?” she asked, sputtering.

“Completely,” he said, a smile twitching at the corners of his mouth. “Whatever you need is what I’ll do.”

She pressed a hand to her chest. “You will? Really? You were so decisive last night. What made you change your mind?”

Braden paused before answering. “Because I owe you, Piper.”

“For what?” she asked, confusion radiating from her eyes.

Telling her the truth wasn’t an option. She wouldn’t want to know why he would forever be indebted to her. “For a million different things. You’ve always being in my corner. How could I say no to you when you’ve always said yes to me? No matter what trouble I got into or the problems I laid at your feet, you always jumped in to help me. There’s no way I could do any less for you.”

Tears slid down Piper’s face, and she made no attempt to wipe them away. She bowed her head, and he could see her lips moving. When she raised her head back up, Braden saw pure happiness emanating from her eyes.

“Thank you, Braden. I’m so grateful that you changed your mind. I know it’s complicated, but in my heart I truly feel that I was meant to carry on Daddy’s legacy. I just can’t imagine my life without this place in it. I’m willing to do just about anything to save it.”

Braden couldn’t envision Piper losing ownership of the restaurant either. It would be agonizing for her. Not to mention Trudy and Hank. They were all invested in it. The townsfolk would be both saddened and upset. Piper would be the subject of endless gossip about the circumstances of her losing ownership of the Snowy Owl. She wouldn’t be able to bear it if the townsfolk discovered that the diner had been struggling since before her father’s death.

He knew Jack’s reputation was important to Piper. People would sympathize with her as well, but he knew she would be inconsolable. If there was even a small chance of them reversing things, he wanted to give it his all. It would be his penance for shaving years off Jack’s life. If it hadn’t been for him, Jack might be here today, doing everything he could to boost the restaurant and spreading his effortless charm throughout the establishment.

“We should meet up so you can give me an opportunity to look over the books and all of your monthly bills along with revenue. That’ll at least give me a snapshot of what’s been going on.”

Piper made a sad face. “Sure thing. I hope you see something in there that I missed, but I crunched the numbers over and over again. It’s not looking good.”

“We have to look at all your options. You might need a lawyer or a consultant.”

She shook her head. “I don’t have money for an attorney. It’s a lack of money that’s gotten me into this situation in the first place.” Piper let out a frustrated groan.

“Why don’t we meet this evening to try and sort some of this out?” he suggested. From what he’d initially gathered, they had only a short window of time to get things dealt with before everything imploded. That needed to be prevented at all costs.

“That sounds good. Come by after I close up,” she told him. “I have to get back out there, but I’m so thrilled you changed your mind about helping me.” She flashed him a smile. “In case you didn’t realize it, I’m super grateful.”

*****

Author Info:

Belle Calhoune lives in Connecticut with her college sweetheart husband and two daughters. After a thirteen year career as a Federal Investigator, she chose to pursue a writing career. An avid lover of romance novels since she was a teen, she enjoys writing love stories and reading them. She loves spending summers in beautiful Cape Cod and traveling to new places. A dog lover, she has a mini poodle and a chocolate lab. More than anything, she believes in happily ever afters.

Website: https://bellecalhoune.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellecalhoune/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BelleCalhoune

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Author-Belle-Calhoune-280681912035512/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6862710.Belle_Calhoune

*****

Spotlight – The Duplicate Bride

Tags

Ginny Baird, The Duplicate Bride

Let’s end the week with a wedding … kinda

*****

The Duplicate Bride

by Ginny Baird

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 Blurb:

Saying “I do” has never been this much fun in this charming new romance from New York Times bestselling author Ginny Baird.

Hope Webb can’t believe her twin sister, Jackie, is begging her to swap places and play fiancée at Jackie’s pre-wedding festivities. Sure, it’s only a business-deal sort of marriage, but Hope is a carb-loving teacher who enjoys curling up with a good book. Jackie is a workaholic whose idea of a good time is a brisk five-mile run at the crack of dawn. The two sisters couldn’t be more opposite.

Now Hope is stuck in the middle of a warm, tight-knit family she can’t help but adore and a groom who turns out to be entirely wonderful…for her.

Hotel magnate Brent Albright knows something is off about his fiancée, but he doesn’t care. Gone is the driven woman with similar career goals, and in her place is someone warm and funny who not only charms his family but him as well. She’s doing everything she can to avoid him, but that’s probably just nerves. Two people about to wed couldn’t know each other less.

Now Brent is determined to woo his fiancée, for real this time, because the more he gets to know her, the more his sweet fiancée turns out to be entirely wonderful…for him.

And that’s when things start to get really complicated…  

Amazon | B&N | Apple | Google | Kobo | Target | Walmart 

*****

Author Info:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Ginny Baird writes sweet contemporary romance with a dash of humor and a whole lot of heart. She’s published more than twenty-five novels and novellas, both with traditional presses and independently, and has several exciting projects in the works. When she’s not writing, Ginny enjoys cooking, walking, and spending time with her family.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Amazon

*****