It Must Be Fate by Lacey Wolfe

Sometimes the future lies in the past…

Sandy Collins hasn’t thought about him in years, not since he broke her heart and broke off their engagement. She’s built a great nursing career for herself, and most of all, she’s happy. Until she ruined it by walking into that staff meeting…

After the passing of his grandmother, Daniel and his daughter Keri have moved back to town and taken up residence in her house. Things are looking up after several rough years, but on the first day of work at his new job as a pediatrician, Daniel gets an unexpected surprise—in the form of a nurse he’s never been able to forget.

As much as she tries to fight it, Sandy can’t deny the attraction. Daniel makes it clear that he’s sorry and wants another shot, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes. But the last thing Sandy wants is to relive the misery from the past. But how can she resist when it seems as though fate is stepping in?

Excerpt:

Grabbing her purse, Sandy tossed in her phone and keys and climbed out of the car. Her breath caught from the sight of him. Daniel was waiting for her by the door. She could tell he’d come from the office in his pressed khakis and light blue button-down shirt. His green eyes lit up when he saw her.

She took a deep breath and stared across the parking lot. She smiled at him, but couldn’t find the words to say hello. His gaze swept over her body as he opened the door with a gentlemanly smile. She couldn’t help but be glad he seemed to appreciate what he saw. As she entered the restaurant, she wondered if he was checking out her ass.

After they were seated, a waiter arrived, placing a bow of chips and salsa on the table. After they gave their drink order, she finally started to relax. Which hadn’t been easy. It had been so long since she’d actually talked to him, other than telling him she didn’t want to. Her stomach was in knots.

“Thank you for meeting me.” Daniel grabbed a chip.

“You’re right. We do need to talk. I’m not sure how long we’ll work together, but for the time being I guess we should be friendly.” Sandy took a chip as well. “Besides, the past is the past. Let’s leave it there.”

“For the most part, we can.”

“This is the one and only time I’ll talk about it. So whatever it is that’s been eating you up, get it out now. Because reminiscing over a broken engagement isn’t my idea of a good time.”

“Mine either.”

The waiter reappeared and asked if they were ready to order. “You go ahead. Oh, wait.” He winked and her heart fluttered. “Let me guess, you’re going to get a taco salad with shredded chicken. No guacamole or sour cream, with extra cheese if possible.”

The waiter glanced at her, but she stared across at Daniel wondering how he had remembered her order after all these years. 

“Ma’am?” The waiter held his pen to his notepad.

“Uh, yeah. What he said.”

“And for you?” He turned his focus to Daniel, scribbling her order down.

She took a deep breath, hoping her heart would calm down.

“The beef fajitas with extra onions.” He handed the menu back to the waiter.

Sandy took a sip of her drink and returned to the chips and salsa. She kept her focus on the red tablecloth. Looking at Daniel right now would be hard. She needed time to wrap her head around the way he was making her feel. All these old emotions were creeping in. Somehow she had to push them back where they belonged.

Buy Links:  Amazon  Nook   All Romance





About the Author:

Lacey Wolfe has always had a passion for words, whether it’s getting lost in a book or writing her own. From the time she was a child she would slip away to write short stories about people she knew and fantasies she wished would happen. It has always been her dream to be a published author and with her two children now of school age, she finally has the time to work on making her dream come true.

Lacey lives in Georgia with her husband, son and daughter, their six cats and one black lab who rules the house.

Author Links:    Site     Twitter    Facebook

Best Fake Day by Tracey Rogers

Faking it never felt so good.

Wedding photographer and romance lover Izzy Latham dreams of finding her own happily-ever-after. When her former teenage crush arrives at her doorstep, looking sexier than ever, and asks to marry her, it should be her dream come true, right? Wrong. It turns out he doesn't want to actually marry her—he only wants to pretend to marry her.

Marriage hater Jack Carter will do anything to close his latest business deal, including finding a wife. The only person who can help him is his childhood friend, Izzy. Except Izzy isn't a little girl anymore. She's definitely all woman, and there's an attraction between them that's hard to ignore.

Jack has to convince Izzy to fake it, but the problem is that she hates to lie. However, she can't deny her feelings for him either. So when Jack makes her an offer she can't refuse, she reluctantly agrees to help him out.

Faking it is the easy part. But what happens when fake starts to feel so real?

Content Warning: contains sensual sex and occasional strong language

Excerpt:

"Let me work off the money," Izzy said.

She felt Jack's gaze rake over her body, watched the clench of his jaw. "And how are you planning to work it off, Isabel?" he almost growled. "Is that what all of this is about?" he asked as his hand made an indicating sweep over her body. "Dress to impress so you can pay me in kind?"

"Oh God, no," she spluttered. "This is me showing you I'm not the weak, naïve girl I used to be and I won't be pushed around!"

The hard glint in his eyes softened slightly. "You were never weak. Naïve…" He trailed off. "So how exactly were you planning to pay me back?"

"Working here for you for free until I pay you back. I could collect glasses, work the bar, or clean."

"And you have experience in any of those roles?"

"No. But I could learn."

"But what about the house repairs?"

She shrugged. "I could do that during the daytime and work here at night. Then when I'm earning again from my day job I'll pay you back."

"And what exactly is your day job?"

"I'm a photographer. I could even do that here. Take photographs of the patrons and sell them for you."

"You work freelance?”

"I have my own business." She hesitated before elaborating. "As a wedding photographer," she said quickly, hoping he wouldn't snag the teasing opportunity.

Too late. The corner of his mouth quirked until it bloomed until a grin. "A wedding photographer. How appropriate. I knew playing dress-up with your mother's veil and having teddy bears as your guests would have an influence on you one day."

"You mean like wanting to have a traditional wedding where the groom doesn't have to bribe the bride? Yeah, my childhood messed me up real bad," she said with sarcasm.

"You're not working here, Izzy. And this conversation is over."

"No, it's not. I'm giving you a solution to paying off what I owe. I'll work off the amount Ellie paid for our debts and the rest you get from her. So when do I start?"

"You are not working here."

"Why?"

"Do you really want to have some guy groping you as you serve drinks? Or a group of guys? I run a tight ship and look out for my staff, but sometimes it happens."

"I can look after myself. I have been groped before, you know. I can deal with it."

He slid his chair closer, bending his legs so hers surrounded him without touching, but close, very close. He looked up at her under dark lashes. "So if some guy puts a hand on your leg you wouldn’t mind?"

She shook her head.

"And if that hand strayed beneath your dress?" he asked as his hand reached out to graze the sensitive skin of her inner thigh, making her shudder.

She shook her head slowly, earning a dark look. Of course she would mind. But this was Jack.

He stood abruptly, stepping into the v of her thighs. "And if a guy tried to kiss you?"

"I have been kissed before, remember?" she said, inwardly cringing at how breathless she sounded.

"I remember being a boy kissing you as a girl. If I were to kiss you now I wouldn’t be holding back and I wouldn’t be kissing you as a boy—I’d be kissing you as a man."

"Then do it," she demanded.

Buy Links:    Beachwalk Press   Amazon     Barnes & Noble 



About the Author:

A devourer of books from an early age, I spent much of my childhood stepping into wardrobes, searching for that magical snowy world where conversing with animals would be expected. When I wasn't searching for those worlds, I wrote about them instead. My first step into the world of romance was when I stole sneak peeks into my nana's books. I'm still in that world and refuse to leave.

I live in Staffordshire, UK, with my husband and three wonderful children. An avid reader and writer of romance, I strongly believe that words make the world go around.

Author Links:   Site   Twitter   Facebook 

Excerpt:

Steve and Angie

He confidently rang the doorbell and enjoyed the second shocked look on Angie’s face in as many days.

He immediately handed her the rose.

She sucked in her breath.  “You remembered,” she stood aside so he could enter.

“You bet darlin’” He made his way into the kitchen.  “I always said I would bring you a rose and a chocolate malt when you opened your store.  And I brought you something else.”  He handed her the sack.  “I figured you’d be ready for another one of these by now.”

“Oh Steve….” Angie put her hand over her mouth.  “I can’t believe it….Thank you.”  She pecked his cheek and took the malt and the art materials from him.  “I’ve not had a malt in a long time,” she took a sip and smiled.  She turned and set the rose on the table.

“I’ve got another surprise.  I’ve taken the job at the country club, starting Monday.  I’ll be working double shifts for a while, but it should only last through Labor Day.  I should have enough saved by then, and I can cut back my hours to explore my options and see what else is out there.”  Steve stepped closer to her and reached for her hand.  “And for something else…come outside with me for a minute.”  He tugged at her, and pulling her outside to the car.  “Voila,” Steve threw out his arm and gestured dramatically.  “Behold my new ride.”

“You bought a car?” she gasped.  “Oh my!  I guess you are serious about turning your life around.”

“Hell yes, sweetheart.  Especially if it means that beautiful look in those green eyes.” Steve tugged her back to the foyer of her condo, away from public scrutiny and pulled her into his arms.  His kiss was brief and gentle, but it sent fresh shock waves of desire coursing through his body, and saw Angie’s blush as she pulled him inside the condo.

“Have you had lunch?  I made a pasta salad last night…”

“Angie, you’re the only meal I need right now.”  His lips descended on hers once more, and his fingers went to the buttons on her white shirt.  His lips traveled to her ear as he spread the blouse open and lovingly cupped her breasts.  “If you’d rather we used your bed, Ange…lead me upstairs, honey, or else I’m going to love you on the floor.” 


Brad and Emma

“I like the view from here too,” he said.          

Emma swung around and sauntered over to him, positioning herself so his face was upside down to hers and kissed his chin, then his lips.  He reached above his head and tugged her shirt loose from her jeans so it floated over his head.  He scooped her breasts free of the white cups, feeling the nipples tighten in his palms.  Emma moved to straddle him, and tugged her shirt and bra over her head.  Brad’s teeth fastened one of her nipples as he growled at her, flipping her over on her back.  His hands went to her belt buckle, and soon had her jeans and underwear around her knees.  He slid backwards off the bed to tug off her boots, and then proceeded to nuzzle behind her knees, causing her to squirm.         

“That tickles,” she complained.  “Stop…”

He increased the pressure of his mouth slightly and moved upwards to her smooth thighs.  Emma sighed and parted her legs wider.  Brad gently spread her pink petals and found her button, licking it lightly.  Her breath expelled in a rush, and he dragged his tongue lower, hearing her whimper.  Her hips bucked in invitation; he slid two fingers into her moist entrance and felt her body tighten around them.  Her breathing increased; he continued to lap at her clit, even sucking it lightly.  She shrieked and convulsed around his fingers.

“Brad….please.…oh Brad.…” she gasped, her hands reaching for him.  “I need you….”

He threw off his shirt and unfastened his own jeans, sliding them hurriedly down.  He crawled up her body and with one motion, rammed his member home, causing another high-pitched shriek. Her arms clutched his neck, her legs locked around his waist, and it was the sweetest thing in the world to empty himself inside of her, hearing her cry his name as she exploded with him.

His cell phone was ringing when they came to, and reluctantly, Brad left the comforts of Emma’s young body and answered it, moving to sit at the desk.  He watched Emma silently creep into the other room, and soon return to the bed, pulling the covers back and sliding under.

Brad finally clicked his phone shut.  “That was my boss,” he said.  “He received Gavin’s fax, and everything looks to be in order.”  He strode to the bed and laughed when he saw her burrowed in.  “Can I get in there too?”

“Who are all your other messages from?” she asked as he slid in beside her.

Brad wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close.  “My assistants called; my boss called….seems I forgot to check in yesterday.  I wonder why?”  He tilted her face and planted a light kiss on her nose.  “Could be I was distracted.”

“I wouldn’t know about that; some of us actually work for a living,”

“I’m on a mini-vacation,” he protested.  “How well do you know Denver?”

“Well enough.  I can find the airport, the downtown area, and one of the better malls.  Why, what do you want to do?”

“I’m doing it.  And I can’t wait to go back to your ranch.”

She sat up and looked at him.  “Brad,” she shoved her loose tendrils of hair back.  “What if I said I don’t want you on my ranch?”
                                                                                 ~~~~~~

Like what you're reading?  Buy it at

http://www.amazon.com/Wild-at-Heart-ebook/dp/B00D1CENGQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369754073&sr=8-1&keywords=wild+at+heart+kenzie+michaels

Again, thank you sooooo much for having me today! Don’t forget to leave your contact information in your comment!  I’ll be announcing the winner on Friday, Jan 17th.

I'm excited to share a wonderful book and great author. Harlie is here today to share her top ten books of all time and share her book blurb and excerpt. Don't forget to enter the giveaway! 

Harlie Williams Top Ten Books of all time (in no particular order)

1.       The Hunt for Red October by Tom Clancy – Jack Ryan is my ultimate book boyfriend.  *sigh*

2.      Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell – It is my mother’s favorite book and the first romance that I ever read.  Plus, I love anything southern.

3.      Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood – This book brought me back to the romance genre and introduced me to my second ultimate book boyfriend, Noah Clayborne.  Plus, nothing beats the Buchanan’s either in her contemporary or historicals.

4.      Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown – It still puts my 8 year old son to sleep.  Plus, me too.

5.      The Death and Life of Superman by Roger Stern – I’m a HUGE comic book fan and Superman is one of my faves.  I cried when I read this book and it still haunts me today.

6.      The Mercenary by Cherry Adair – This was my first Harlequin Blaze book to read and it started the entire TFLAC series from Ms. Adair.  And yes, I have met her and she signed it for me.  And no, I will never let it leave the house again.

7.      Lucky by Sandra Brown – Oh my, people had sex in books.  LOL!  And yes, my mother gave it to me read when she was done. 

8.      A Time to Kill by John Grisham – No one does legal thrillers better. 

9.      Anything by James Patterson – but I had to pick, “Sunday’s at Tiffany’s” and of course, Alex Cross.

10.  Spenser and Jess Stone books from Robert B. Parker – Love, love Spenser and Jess!  Great crime fiction.

Surprised at my list?  You really shouldn’t be because as much as I love romance books, my tastes really run the gambit when it comes to my reading.  I’m at home reading a spy thriller and then curling up with a crime novel or a romance. 

Also, my book boyfriends surprise people, too.  Again, Jack Ryan is the ultimate boyfriend.  Sexy, loyal and will do anything for his family and his country. 

So what are your all-time favorite books? 


Great list Harlie. Most of them are not one's I've read before. You just gave me a whole new group to check out!

The Couple by Harlie Williams

A Contemporary Romance

20 pages, 3 flames, spicy

Blurb:

A woman has one thing on her mind tonight…sex. Dirty, sweaty, kinky sex with a cowboy. With her man gone more than he is at home, she needs the release.

After being away for two weeks, a cowboy goes looking for someone to play with for the night. Being away is part of the job but not having someone to come home to is hurting his soul. Feeling disconnected in his love life, the red head will be perfect.

Once they meet, can one night of pure passion led to more than just a one night stand for either of them? Communication is the key to every relationship. Can these two find a way to connect emotionally or are they destined for heartache.

Buy Links:  

Muse It Up Publishing: https://museituppublishing.com/bookstore2/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=636&category_id=69&manufacturer_id=295&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=1

Amazon:   http://www.amazon.com/The-Couple-ebook/dp/B00ATHPGJO/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1362078104&sr=1-1&keywords=the+couple+harlie+williams

Barnes & Noble:  http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-couple-harlie-williams/1114142543?ean=2940044216150&itm=1&USRI=the+couple+by+Harlie+Williams&

All Romance ebooks:  https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thecouple-1025984-172.html

Bookstrand:   http://www.bookstrand.com/the-couple

Excerpt (PG-13 for language)

“What’s a girl like you doing at a bar like this?” he asked.

Her voice was a purr, like a cat well satisfied with its stolen pitcher of cream. “I’m looking for someone special.”

Hoping that she meant him he asked, “Did you find him yet?”

“Maybe.” The glint in her eye told him he was definitely in the running.  However, I’m not looking to hook up with just any old cowboy.  He must be able to go the full eight seconds and come back for more.”  She eyed him from head to toe.  “Think you can handle that?”

Oh, I can most definitely handle you sweetheart.

Not wanting to seem too eager he replied, “I’m not sure but I’m willing to try.”

“Do or do not.  There is no try.”  He struggled not to let his grin escape.  The fact that she was trying to seduce him made his dick twitch.

“Let’s just say I’m looking to burn off some pent up frustration. A little excess energy.  And I’ve got plenty to burn.”

The way she shivered at his words, he knew he almost had her.  He winked as she licked her crimson lips and blew out a small breath.  Damn what this woman is doing to him. 

He pushed her knees apart with his left leg and was rewarded with the amazing scent of her arousal.  The knowledge she was wet for him had him close to going off in his jeans. 

Houston, we have lift-off!

“Why don’t you have a seat cowboy and we’ll talk about it.”

She gasped when he shocked her with a brush of his lips against hers; fighting with everything he had not to deepen the kiss. 

Patience, patience.

He would play her game for the moment but sooner or later, she would be his.  Tied up and begging for more. 

He asked her, “Now about that eight second ride?”

Author Bio:

When she is not trying to be Super Blogger and reviewing for her own site, Harlie is a stay at home with a 3rd grade son that keeps her busy with all of his stuff.  Married for 9 years to her own hero and still madly in love with him, she wouldn’t change a thing about her life.  Okay, maybe living in Ireland or New Zealand but those are just pipe dreams. 

A certifiable sports nut, she craves college football (OU Sooners and Texas A&M Aggies), Baseball (Texas Rangers and Houston Astros), Dallas Stars hockey and Houston Texans football.  After working for the Dallas Stars Hockey Club for 5 years and naming her son after Brian Leetch you’d think she write a hockey story.  Nope, been there, done that and the t-shirt is a rag.  She prefers just to watch the game now.  Less stress.

Harlie loves to hear from readers and other authors.  You can find her on Facebook most days.  Unless, she’s sitting in the carpool line.  The bane of her existence.

Author links:

Author site:  www.harliewilliams.com

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/marika67

Facebook Page:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Harlie-Williams-Writer/224885394212458

Pinterest:  http://pinterest.com/marikaweber25

Goodreads:  http://www.goodreads.com/BriansMom

Linkedin:  http://www.linkedin.com/pub/marika-weber/36/a20/a63

An Archangel's Promise by Jess Buffett

Will the enemy be powerful enough to break an archangel’s promise?

For the last ten years, Gabriella Richards has struggled with the pain of losing the only man she’s ever loved. From out of nowhere he returns to throw her life into chaos, and it isn’t without consequences.

Hunter Bailey had always known he was different, but nothing could have prepared him for the truth. As the son of an archangel, he has been on the run for years from those who seek to wipe out his kind—the Nephilim. With a destiny unknown even to himself, nothing will stop him from returning to claim the woman he loves and the happily-ever-after he was promised.

Gabriella finally has the love of her life back, but at what cost? And will the enemy be able to break an archangel’s promise?

Content Warning: strong language, graphic sex

Excerpt:

Gabriella started moving forward. Nolan tried pulling her back, but nothing could keep her still. The need she felt coursing through her, urging her to the man on the other side of the room, was just too strong, powerful, and consuming. She barely acknowledged the throng of people surrounding her as she made her way across the floor, her eyes transfixed on her destination.

Her destination being the tall, strong, and commanding form of her childhood best friend. His dark, almost black, hair still fell into his sapphire eyes, and his lips looked just as soft and supple as they had been the last time she had seen him. When she stopped mere inches from him, Gabriella held her breath, unable to believe Hunter really stood in front of her.

The small quirk of his lips at her indecision answered her question. Oh, this was her Hunter all right.

Hunter's hand came up to cup the back of her neck, drawing her those few inches closer. Shocked at their sudden closeness, Gabriella only had enough time to suck in a breath before his other arm came around her, pulling her against his hard chest, his mouth taking hers in a kiss filled with possession and a hunger that had her opening up for more.

The kiss was fearless, robbing her of thought. Gabriella's body melted under his mastery, becoming pliant, molding into his as if they'd done this a million times before. She felt a thrill run through her as the familiarity of the man's embrace drew her in deeper. This was her Hunter. Oh God. Hunter's hand roaming up and down her back created such delicious sparks of electricity along her spine. She'd never felt so hungry, so needy.

Pulling back, needing to breathe and to see his face, Gabriella felt tears pool in her eyes. "You're real."

Hunter smiled down at her, his eyes softening as his large hands cupped her face. "Yeah, Gabby. It's me."

How was it possible? Hunter was standing right in front of her, kissing her. It was all so surreal. She caressed her fingers over his tanned face, taking it all in. His features, once boyish, were different. They were replaced with a strong jawline and an essence of confidence and maturity. Gabriella noticed that his eyes, though still the same startling sapphire, now held flecks of azure and shards of cobalt that made them seem fiercer somehow.

Still the same, but so different as well.

"I missed you." The deep rumble of his voice made her weak in the knees and dampen between her legs. It was such a strong reaction it startled her out of her haze.

He had been gone so long.

Too long.

What the hell was she doing?

Wrenching herself out of his arms, Gabriella gazed up at him, at the boy who had left her broken and alone. The longer she stared into his eyes, the more furious she became with both him and herself. Why on earth was she kissing him? And how dare he show up like this, acting like he had all the right in the world to be there.

Raising her hand, she delivered a blow straight across his handsome face. Hunter had clearly not been expecting that reaction because he staggered back, his shock evident as his eyes widened and his hand covered the abused cheek.

"What was that for?"

"Really? You have no idea why I would want to slap you?" she seethed. "You disappeared, Hunter. You left when you swore you never would. I thought you were dead."

His face softened, which just served to irritate her more. "I know my leaving like that must have hurt, but surely you can give me a chance to explain."

Unbelievable. The bastard thought she actually had to give him a chance. She didn't owe him a damn thing.

"No, Hunter. I don't have to give you anything." Spinning on her heels, she headed for the doors leading to the stairway. Screw waiting for the lift. The sooner she got out of there the better.

"So that's it. You won't give me anything?" Hunter called out behind her.

Pausing at the doorway, she turned to see him still standing in the spot she had left him. She smiled sadly. "You know, if you had shown up a few years ago, I probably would have given you anything you asked for." Her face hardened, and she narrowed a glare on him. "But I was weaker then. I had to become tougher because the pain of losing you was too much to bare. So congratulations, Hunter, you made me a stronger person. You should be proud."

Buy Links:   Beachwalk Press     Amazon      Barnes & Noble

 

About the Author:

Jess Buffett was born and raised in New South Wales, Australia. She married her high school sweetheart and they live on the Central Coast with their two children.

Jess is a hopeless romantic who loves stories about true love with a happy ending—which is probably a good thing given what she writes. She is a huge fan of M/M and M/F romance—anything with hunky men in all their glory, whether they be shifters, angels, vampires, cowboys, or the boy next door. Jess is a firm believer in soul mates, happily-ever-afters, and love at first sight, but that sometimes people need a second or a third meeting for the brain to catch up.

Author Links:  Website   Facebook   Twitter

The Triad of Power: First Quest by Denysé Bridger


On the fantasy world of Foress, the daughter of the world’s last remaining god is challenged to locate one of the ancient swords that were forged as the Triad of Power among the once-powerful gods. Sherindal is a skilled warrior, but a woman with many conflicts in her heart. She has spent her life in the service of her father, the god M’Har, yet it is not she who will wield the most powerful of the swords. Diviner is to be her brother’s destiny, even though she is certain the legacy should be hers. Sherindal carries another of the three ancient weapons, Huntor. The final part of the triad is to be held by the hands of men, and her lover, the Prince of Ember City, is the guardian of Predator.

 
Excerpt:

They’d only slept for minutes when the huge doors of the Prince’s chambers were flung open and the spacious room was invaded by numerous men, all bearing swords.

“Rienn.”

The word was a warning, and Sherindal slithered from the bed when he released her. She scooped up her weapon as she rolled, oblivious to her nakedness. She whirled to face the first rush of the attack. Somewhere through the early morning hours since they’d made love, Rienn had thought to retrieve his breeches, she noted from the corner of her eye. He had managed to gain his weapon, and they fought, back to back.

Sherindal hissed in fury and pain when the second of the men who engaged her slipped past her defense and inflicted a wound near her waist. It was a surface injury and she quickly rewarded him by slicing off his sword hand. Howling in agony, he toppled back, then fled as he recovered his footing several feet away from her.

Rienn had killed two men and was about to run through the third when Sherindal’s voice filled the room, and the blade she wielded, Huntor, rose with her song. The attackers froze momentarily, those two who remained, and she smiled when the weapon cut them down, then drifted back to her outstretched hand, coming to rest in her grasp with near peaceful ease.

“Your blood-thirsty weapon has been sated nicely this morning,” Rienn observed with a tense glance at the gleaming blade.

“Who are they?” she asked, her tone cold as she met his gaze.

“Why would you assume I know?” he retorted instantly. “This is hardly what I would consider an invigorating start to the day!”

“Really?” One eyebrow rose in emphasis of her sardonic tone. “It is one of the more interesting diversions you might have provided, Rienn.” Her laughter was faintly mocking, and not a little bit ironic.

Rienn’s handsome features suffused with rage and he reached for her, gripped her bare arm with fingers that dug into her flesh like steel bands.

“You can be an evil bitch,” he whispered darkly.

Sherindal smiled, and this time it was genuine. She nodded, kissed his chin, the closest she could get to his mouth from her disadvantaged height, then she gasped as a fiery lance reminded her of the slash near her left hip.

“Enough, Rienn,” she said.

He released her, scooped her into his arms, and placed her in the center of the feathered mattress of his bed. He looked closely at the injury, yanked the bell pull, and then went to the heavy wardrobe at the far end of the chamber.

His guards were rushing along the corridor when he returned to the bed and helped Sherindal into one of his linen shirts. She bit her bottom lip against another stab of pain and laughed in macabre amusement when she spotted the duo who entered the room.

“They look rested enough, my love,” she muttered.

Rienn glared at her, then turned an even fiercer visage to the men who should have prevented the assault in his private rooms.

“Get them out of here, then report to Radisan.”

“Radisan will no doubt beat the life out of them, Rienn,” she remarked. “Your brother is overzealous when it comes to punishment. He enjoys watching other people writhe, especially when he is the orchestrator of their anguish.”

“Would you rather I reward them for their lapse?” he snapped. “We could have been killed, Sher!”

“Highly unlikely. Get me my own clothes,” she requested. “I want to dress.”

“You’re not going anywhere,” he warned from his position near the door. As the two guards dragged the last of the fallen men into the hall, he slammed the door into place and speared his lover with a look that frequently froze men in their tracks. Sherindal rose from the bed to retrieve her belongings.

“Why?”

She sighed and began to apply salve from the small medicine kit she carried. When the wound was smeared with the peach-colored cream, she wrapped clean linen around her hips, then continued to dress. Dark brown trousers, forest green tunic, black boots and vest, and lastly the sword, in a sheath that she wore at her back, the glittering hilt visible between her shoulders when she faced the Prince again.

“Rienn,” she said gently. “I would not leave you if it wasn’t necessary. This is something I must do. I have no choice!”

Buy Links:  Amazon 





About the Author:

Canadian born and bred, and a lifelong dreamer, I began writing at an early age and can’t recall a time when I wasn’t creating in some artistic form. My life has had several on-going love affairs that shape much of what I write, the American West, Victorian England, cowboys, a passion for pirates, Greek Gods, and Ancient Egypt. The other endless love affair in my life is Italia and all its magic, beauty, and dazzling culture. That passion spills into all aspects of my life.

My first major fantasy novel is AS FATE DECREES. (Available in bookstores everywhere, and on Amazon’s international sites.) The novel relies heavily on Greek Mythology, and is set in Ancient Greece and modern Athens. If you enjoy a tale of Gods, Destiny, and the battles of an Eternal Champion, this is the book for you! (Less than six months after publication, it was a finalist for the 2008 Aurora Award.) Not surprisingly, there’s a touch of romance throughout, of course!

In the past half dozen years, I’ve signed with over a dozen publishers, and have released books in all lengths and genres, and it’s something I hope to continue to do for many more years. A visit to my website will show the diversity of what is currently available, and the mixing of genres and styles that will be employed in many up-coming projects as well. (All my social site links, etc., are on the About Me page.)

Author Links:  Site     Blog     Facebook     Twitter   

Disappear with Me by L. Dean Pace-Frech

Love is greater than hope or faith, but can Reverend Leander Norris convince a jury that the love he shares with another man is natural?

In 1910, the United Kingdom was in turmoil. King Edward died after only nine years on the throne. The social class system that upheld British society for centuries was being chipped away by social, political, and economic unrest across the Commonwealth. Amidst this backdrop, Reverend Leander Norris is accused of sodomy. After discovering his own self-worth and unconditional love, Leander finds the courage to stand up for what he believes is right and pleads not guilty to the charges. Throughout the trial, Leander’s past is revealed, including the temptations that bring the accusations against him. By the end of the trail, Leander is once again reunited with a romantic interest from the past, but it may be too late to rekindle any love that might remain, given the circumstances of the era and Leander’s likely sentence.

Excerpt:

“Are you not a scholar?” Weeks asked. “Do you not know the Bible that you preach from each Sunday?”

“I know it very well,” Leander answered. “But the Bible has many interpretations. I think you can guess that mine might be a little less than conventional.”

Weeks reclined back in his chair. He made a steeple with his fingers and rested them on his pursed lips.

“You're actually sitting here telling me that, as a man of God, you're all right with buggery and feel you've done nothing wrong?”

“Mr. Weeks, do you realize you keep asking me the same question over again, using different words?”

“As your counsel, I need to be sure that I understand your position, the one you expect me to defend.”

“You sound shocked that I would suggest such a thing. I can't have you defending me if you don't believe it yourself.”

“Reverend, my beliefs about the situation are irrelevant; it doesn't matter what I believe. I need to be able to defend our position in court and hope our defense can refute what the prosecution will present.”

“I have to have conviction in my sermons each Sunday morning. I think you also know you need to have a conviction when defending your clients.”

“And I can assure you that I have that same conviction to make sure that you receive a fair trial. I will do my best—”

“Do your best to what? Go through the motions and make sure that the I's are dotted and the T's are crossed so it looks like I've been given a good defense?”

Weeks didn't answer and that was all the answer that Leander needed. After a moment, Weeks tried to start again. “Look, Revered, I am your assigned counsel for this trial. I am on your side. I want to see you get a fair trial, but you must understand what we're up against is quite overwhelming.”

“I know; I've never done anything the simple way.”

“Sir, you must understand that we are going up against laws that are rooted in two thousand years of Christian tradition and about as many years of British attitude.”

“Mr. Weeks, do you love your wife?”

Weeks let out an impatient sigh. “Of course, but here you go asking intimate questions about me that have no bearing on my defending your case.”

“Humor me, sir. Do you love your wife?”

“Yes, I very much love my wife and family.”

“What if you woke up tomorrow and a constable showed up on your doorstep and arrested you because they said the love you share with your wife was illegal?”

Weeks didn't answer him. Instead, in a quiet voice, he said, “You know you and I are just two people. We're not going to change these laws overnight.”

Buy Links:   Musa Publishing     Amazon    Barnes and Noble,

 

About the Author:

With inspiration from historical tourism sites, the love of reading, and a desire to write a novel, L. Dean Pace-Frech started crafting his debut novel, A Place to Call Their Own, in 2008. After four years of writing and polishing the manuscript, he submitted it for publication and Musa Publishing offered him a contract in early 2013. Disappear With Me is his second novel.

Dean lives in Kansas City, Missouri with his partner, Thomas, and their two cats. They are involved in their church and enjoy watching movies, outdoor activities in the warmer weather and spending time together with friends and family. In addition to writing, Dean enjoys reading and patio gardening.

Prior to novels, Dean did some technical writing in his career. He plans to write a sequel to both A Place to Call Their Own and Disappear with Me, but is taking some time away from those characters and worlds to work on a third novel, The Higher Law.

Thank you for stopping by today! Join the conversation: use #disappearwithme to talk about the novel on social media. I love to connect!

   Author links:    Blog    Facebook    Twitter    Goodreads

Healing Hearts

By Liz Crowe

Blurb: Jay Longmire had it all--a successful business, a beautiful wife, two loving children. But one normal Sunday evening in Ann Arbor everything was ripped from his arms at knifepoint. He has retreated to Traverse City to hide from the world, nursing his physical and emotional wounds and trying to cope with mind-numbing guilt over his inability to protect his family.

Abby Powers serves him coffee he never drinks and has become obsessed with the movie-star handsome but melancholy man. And the anticipation of his appearance every day takes her mind off her own messy life.

What begins as a near desperate physical connection out of the blue develops into a friendship that has the potential to heal two damaged hearts. But Jay is terrified to love again. While Abby's fierce independence forces them both to acknowledge the deeper relationship they both desire, but that remains just out of reach.

Two wounded souls meet at a coffee shop and find a way to heal each other. The horror of Jay’s loss was heartbreaking. He deserves a happily ever after. Abby has an empathetic side but she’s also strong and determined to reach her dreams.

I loved the interaction between the characters. Ms. Crowe draws you into their lives and makes you cheer for their happiness. All of Ms. Crowe’s stories remind you about what’s important in life and show “real” people…people you’re friends with or wish to know. While this story has it’s dark moments, the message of healing is very clear. A recommended read for lovers of stories with heart and heat!

Betrothal

By Jenna Jaxon

Blurb: Lady Alyse de Courcy has fallen in love with Lord Braeton, a nobleman in King Edward III’s court and a man to whom she has barely spoken. Fate, however, has decreed her betrothal to his best friend, Sir Geoffrey Longford—a handsome and imposing knight, yet hardly the man she wants to wed.

When Sir Geoffrey is bound in betrothal by his father, he could not have expected the beautiful stranger to win his heart the moment they meet. Nevertheless, the fascinating Lady Alyse has done exactly that, and his feelings for her only grow as he learns more of her gentle yet spirited nature. But Alyse’s infatuation with his friend casts doubt on whether she can ever return his regard and their wedding day is fast approaching…

Will he have time enough to win her love?

Review:

Arranged marriages were a part of the Middle Ages, but it didn’t stop young women from wishing for a love match. Lady Alyse has her heart set on a certain knight but her father has arranged a marriage with another.

Ms. Jaxon’s story draws you immediately into the time period. Her writing evokes the smells, sounds and feelings of the past. I felt like I was experiencing the story along with the characters.

Alyse is a witty woman who is feisty and loyal. She’s someone I would like to be friends with. Sir Geoffrey is a hot knight who has a jealous streak a mile wide. Even with that failing, he’d be the man I’d fall for. Something about the strong-minded, sexy knight that drew me in.

Betrothal is a serial novella which ends on a cliffhanger. Having gotten a sneak peek as the second installment, I have to share how excited I am to keep reading about Alyse. It seems like Alyse is in for some more challenges and I can’t wait to revisit her world.

I highly recommend Betrothal and am looking forward to Ms. Jaxon’s next book, Betrayal. 

The Brides of Black Mountain (Shiloh's Song and Mending Fences)

By D’Ann Lindun

Blurb: All Shiloh Jamieson dreams of is a chance to make it in the country music business. Unfortunately, her mother—a bitter failure in the biz—stands in Shiloh’s way. Shiloh’s determined not to repeat her mother’s actions—sleeping her way into the Nashville music scene. That is simply not an option.

Country music superstar Dillon Travers left Nashville’s bright lights behind for Black Mountain, Colorado, craving peace, solitude and to run his rescue horse ranch. His wife’s death has left him disillusioned with the career he once loved.

Can a sassy newcomer and a jaded veteran each find their way together when one desperately wants what the other needs to forget?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Starla Jamieson owns a successful bar and her thriving business enough. She’s never wanted a child of her own because between helping raise her younger brothers and a dozen half-sisters, Starla’s parented plenty. To avoid the motherhood trap, she walked away from the only man she ever wanted. But nobody else has ever been able to fill Trevor Lee’s boots.

Trevor Lee has never forgiven Starla for the lie she told him. He’s also never stopped loving her. His head tells him she’s not the right woman for him because he wants a traditional family… and that’s just not Starla. But his heart can’t forget her.

When the unexpected consequences of a night of passion forces them to examine their past, they have to decide whether to forgive and forget …or to let love slip away again.

Review:

The Brides of Black Mountain is a two story novella that features characters from Ms. Lindun’s popular The Cowboys of Black Mountain series. The two stories tell about two half-sisters, Starla and Shiloh who have to deal with being one of the many by-blows of Clem Jamieson, a man who couldn’t keep his “you know what” in his pants. Both girls question love and loyalty but are so caring and loving towards everyone.

I really connected with Shiloh and Starla. They are hardworking and dedicated. Shiloh reaches for her dreams of music stardom. Starla’s determined not to repeat a mistake she made, no more lies. Each of them deserved their chance at happiness.

In my mind, Dillon was Keith Urban. Hot and hunky with a great voice to boot! Trevor is a man I’d love to get to know better as well. Who doesn’t love a man who is willing to do the right thing!

Ms. Lindun’s books draw the reader in and engage you with the exciting characters and storyline. The Brides of Black Mountain is able to be read as a stand alone but contains many of your favorite characters from her other books. Reading them all will deepen your appreciation of the backstory as you get to visit with old friends.

I recommend The Brides of Black Mountain and all of D’Ann’s Black Mountain books. Her cowboys are sexy and full of character. :)

Betrayal is set to release on January 31, 2014.

Blurb for Betrayal:

After a night of passion with her betrothed, Sir Geoffrey Longford, Lady Alyse de Courcy is eagerly looking forward to her wedding.  But when Geoffrey is forced to marry another, a heartbroken and possibly pregnant Alyse finds herself in her own private hell. She must either gamble with her reputation or marry someone she does not love.

A reputed connoisseur of women, Thomas, Lord Braeton, has dallied with many ladies of King Edward’s court, although he has favored none.  However, as Geoffrey’s best friend, Thomas has sworn to serve and protect Alyse, an oath now sorely tested when he agrees to marry her—in name only—to guard her reputation. Yet, as they grow closer, and Thomas discovers Alyse’s sweet but spirited nature, he comes to desire a marriage in truth.  Can he overcome her memory of Geoffrey or is Thomas doomed to burn with passion for a woman he can never possess?



Excerpt:           

Alyse’s heart lurched at the sight of Thomas. She rose, trembling, and murmured, “Your Highness,” but looked expectantly at Lord Braeton.

His eyes met hers, distant and cool. Puzzled, she turned her attention to the princess, who was herding her other women toward the door to her bedchamber.

“Lady Maurya, Lady Anne, Margaret,” the princess beckoned them. “Lord Braeton would have a moment with Lady Alyse. Would you attend me, please?” Princess Joanna passed Alyse, caressing her arm as she led the confused women through the door.

At the touch, Alyse sought the princess’s eyes.  Fear gripped her heart at the pity she saw there.

“Thomas.” Alyse curtsied quickly then blurted out the fear she had fought almost since Geoffrey had left. “Is my lord well? Have you news for me?” Thanks to Anne and Margaret’s thoughtless comments, she had become convinced Geoffrey had fallen ill with Sir Robert’s ailment and now himself hovered between life and death.

Avoiding her eyes, Thomas answered briefly. “Aye, my lady. When I left him, Geoffrey was well enough.”

While relieved at his words, a shadow still lay on her heart. If Geoffrey was not ill, why had Thomas’s manner changed? What had summoned this aloof stranger? He was withholding something from her.

“And Sir Roland?”

He hesitated, searching her eyes then looking away.  He fisted his hands.  “Sir Roland is…has…”

Alyse could stand it no longer. She crossed to stand directly before Thomas, laid a cold hand upon his arm, and gripped it. “Tell me.”

The fact that there was something he could not bring himself to tell her filled her with terror. He said Geoffrey was well enough when he left. What about now?

Before she could question him further, he drew out a folded piece of parchment, sealed with blue wax and stamped with a signet ring bearing Geoffrey’s family crest. She stared at it.

“Geoffrey bade me place this in your hand and no other, my lady.” Thomas thrust the missive toward her.

Alyse compelled herself to hold her hand out .

He sighed. “He also bade me be at your service, lady, had you need of anything.” He gave the parchment into her hand. As he did so, she looked into his eyes and recognized the same pity she had seen in Princess Joanna’s.

Panic made her arms weak and her fingers numb. She forced her shaking hands to break the seal. Alyse unfolded the letter and slowly read the scratched and blurry words.

* * * *

In her bedchamber, Princess Joanna waited with Maurya, Anne, and Margaret. The women’s faces had changed from puzzlement to fear. Joanna looked from one maid to another, trying to hide her despondency. So many prayers had not been answered today.

Anne finally summoned the courage to ask, “Your Highness, what has happened?” She choked back tears. “I meant no harm, earlier. Indeed,” she crossed herself, “I wish Sir Roland and Sir Geoffrey long life.” She turned stricken eyes toward Joanna and whispered, “Is Sir Geoffrey—”

She got no further before a wrenching wail of anguish shattered the hushed room, as though the very walls echoed the sound. The four women stood rooted to the floor at the almost inhuman shriek of grief.

The sound cut off abruptly, and in the eerie  silence that followed, they heard the soft thud of a body hitting the floor.