Friday, November 29, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Rest in Pieces (Barbie: The Vampire Hunter #1)" by Lucinda Dark

Rest in Pieces 
(Barbie: 
The Vampire Hunter #1)
by Lucinda Dark

Publication date:
November 25th, 2019
Genres: New Adult, Paranormal, Romance, Urban Fantasy
Ashes to Ashes. Dust to Dust. If vampires kill your entire family, vengeance is a must. 
I can’t say my parents never warned me about vampires. I just never believed them. Not—that is—until six months ago when vampires broke into my home and killed my family. Thanks to all the skills my parents taught me, I managed to escape but I couldn’t save them. 
Two vampires down and the rest of the world to go. 
My bid for revenge is going to have to wait, though, because until I turn 18, I’m being placed in the loving care of Elizabeth and Jonathan McKnight—godparents I didn’t even know existed. The clock is ticking until I can get back to my goal of eradicating the vampire race. But something is amiss at my new high school. According to my parents, vampires can’t walk in daylight. So, why then, does Torin Priest? If he’s not a vampire, then what is he? Because unlike the obnoxious asshole, Maverick McKnight, who sees me as some sort of bloodsucking leech on his wealthy family, Torin Priest is most certainly not human. 
To stake or not to stake, that is the question.

Excerpt:

Maverick pointed his finger right in my face. “I’m watching you, Barbie,” he spat my name like a curse. “If you try to steal from them, you’ll be out the door so goddamn fast, you’ll have burns on your ass from being kicked to the curb.”
“For your information, Maverick,” I said, using the same tone he’d used with my name, “I’m not here to find a new fucking family. I’m here because the government put me here. Comprende, dumbass? As a minor, I don’t have much of a fucking choice.”
“Choice or not.” He shook his head and fixed me with an outright glare. “You will not fuck with me. You will not fuck with my parents. You will stay the hell out of my way and out of my fucking business. Do you comprende?”
“Duly noted,” I replied dryly. “And since we’re on the topic of discussion, let’s make a deal—you and I.” Before he could agree or not on any sort of deal, I continued. “You stay out of my fucking way and I won’t kick your ass. And trust me, pretty boy, I may look smaller than you, but I would have you begging in a matter of seconds. If you don’t like me now, wait until I unleash my inner bitch. Therefore, if you wish to remain breathing, I suggest you back off,” I growled. “And in case you can’t understand that, understand this”—I stopped and leaned forward, moving into his space until I could smell a hint of his spicy cologne—“thou shalt not try me. Do so at your own peril.” He eyed me with no small amount of cold-blooded hatred. I didn’t give much of a shit. I moved back once more and jerked the door handle. “Now unlock the fucking door, Deputy Maverick, or you’ll see just what my inner bitch can do.”



Author Bio:
Lucinda Dark is the Fantasy based pen name for USA Today Bestselling Author, Lucy Smoke. 
A writer of various genres, Lucy is a young adventurer with a lust for good characterization and unique protagonists. 
You can contact her or view her catalog via her website at www.Lucysmoke.com or join her newsletter to keep up to date on all the latest releases! 

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Wednesday, November 27, 2019

BLOG TOUR & BOOK REVIEW for "Break the Rules (Loveless Brothers, #3)" by Roxie Noir

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Some lines shouldn’t be crossed.

Some rules shouldn’t be broken.

June is one of them, and I know it.


Break the Rules, an all-new hilarious,
brother’s best friend romance
from Roxie Noir, is available now!

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~ SUMMARY ~

As a forest ranger, I believe in the simple life. I prefer cabins to apartments, trails to freeways, and trees to people. My life is orderly, predictable, and quiet.
Until it’s hit by a woman I never saw coming  Hurricane June.
She’s fierce. She’s feisty. She has a laugh like the first day of spring, and she’s so pretty that I can’t breathe when I look at her. June will only be in town for a few months — just while job-hunting. She won’t last until winter, but how can I resist?
Except I have to. She’s my best, oldest, and most loyal friend’s baby sister.
Betraying him would be the worst thing I’ve ever done. Not betraying him might be the hardest.
Especially once we start working together on a secret project. All this spending time together, sneaking around at night, and lying to her brother about what we’re doing sure feels like more than friendship.
June might break my heart. Her brother might break my nose.
But I guess some things were made to be broken.

~ BOOK REVIEW for Break the Rules ~

*****(5) out of 5 Stars!

This is another delightful tale in the Loveless Brothers series!  Levi has been one of my favorite characters since the first book; a position that was even more solidified in the last installment (coincidentally - or not! - in a scene involving June).  He's the quietest of the bunch, laid back, easy-going, methodical, purposeful.  And he's absolutely head-over-heels in love with June!  So much so that he often finds himself lost for words around her.  Which just adds to his whole silent and broody persona.  

He was the odd one out, because no one but me had a crush on Levi...  
But then again, Levi was... weird.  
In a school that emptied out the first day of deer hunting season every year, he was a vegetarian.  He carried a book everywhere he went...

June has had a crush on Levi for as long as she can remember.  He has been (rather unexplainably) her older brother's best friend for years, so she's been around him much of her life.  Still, he makes her nervous, and she's never sure what he's thinking.  Which is too bad, really, because they probably could have gotten together much sooner, if they'd been privy to each others' thoughts.  Other than the biggest obstacle, which is her over protective big brother Silas.

I remind myself of Silas, drinking beers at my brothers' brewery, telling us how June's ex showed up at her window with a boombox, proposed, and wouldn't leave when June asked him to.  I remind myself that he claimed he knew how to hide a body so well no one would ever find it, and he's probably right. 
Some lines simply shouldn't be crossed.  Some rules simply shouldn't be broken.
June is one of them, and I know it. 

For about forty percent of the book, Levi and June are still fighting their attraction to one another, telling themselves that it is one-sided, that a relationship between them couldn't work for various reasons.  But at the same time, they are working together on a secret project (which gives us something else to get caught up in and focus on when they are being extremeley frustrating), and they are really getting to know each other and becoming true friends.  It was lovely to see the relationship that developed between them before they had any romantic interactions.  I adored how much Levi wanted to protect June; his stealing the pen for her was probably my favorite scene in the whole book.  Although the whole nightcap situation was pretty great too.  (On a side note, I love that the whole "ma'am" scene from the last novel was brought up!  I just wish that Levi had actually discussed it with June.  LOL!)

"I knew it," he finally says...  "You remember that time at the Mountain Grind when you two were talking about a wireless router?"
"She was annoyed that my house didn't have wifi," I explain.
"I've never seen you look at anyone like that," he says.  "I should have known then.  God, it was obvious."

As usual, the author's writing is smooth and sensual, the dialogue witty and fun, the love scenes hot and steamy.  The secondary characters are all a delight, from the rest of the extended Loveless clan to Levi's adopted dog.  It was great to catch up with the other brothers, especially the couples from the first too books, not to mention Rusty!  I really enjoyed the addition of June's parents, especially her mom, who definitely did not have the wool pulled over her eyes about what was going on.  I did not at all enjoy the section towards the end where most of the angst and drama comes in to play.  I thought both Levi and June acted like idiots and I just wanted to smack some sense into both of them.  Luckily, they both did finally come to their senses at least.

"Have fun," my mom says.  "And be safe!"
..."Is this a trap?" I ask...
"Nope," she says.  "You're grown, just don't come home pregnant."
Then she looks up at me.
"Or do, I'd love grandchildren and your brother sure doesn't seem to be getting me any," she says thoughtfully.

I believe there are two more books in this series (one for each of the remaining brothers who still need to find their HEA) and I can't wait to read both of them!  This is definitely a book and a series that I recommend for lovers of contemporary romance.

I received a free eBook copy of this title from Social Butterfly PR, 
and have willingly provided an honest review.

BTR - AN

Download your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/BreakRules
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2qIsINl
Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2kSC9qu

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Excerpt:

I like this side of Levi. It’s a side I’ve only ever seen glimpses of before in the past two weeks — sweet, slightly goofy, teasing and funny, different from the serious, quiet man I thought he was. It’s a strange revelation, but a good one, even if I wish I liked it less.

"One minute,” I tell him, and pull back from the window.

I shut it. I pull the curtains closed. I wonder what I’m doing and why on earth Levi has shown up beneath my bedroom window at twelve-thirty in the morning. I wish that the sight of him down there had made me feel differently, that I was indifferent and vaguely curious instead of suddenly buzzing and feeling like I’m being lifted aloft by several large birds.

I tiptoe down the stairs and through the living room, still wondering. I haven’t heard from him at all since we ate pizza in the back of his truck two nights ago, and I wish that didn’t bother me. I wish I thought less about him sitting there, as night fell, laughing and showing me his cell phone or telling me that he’s an alien.

I wish I thought less about him, period.

When I get outside, Levi’s leaning against his truck, his shoulder-length hair out of its usual knot.

 I’m not sure I remember seeing him with his hair down before. He looks different. Relaxed. Like himself.

“I named the dog,” he says as I walk up to him.

 I don’t know what I was expecting him to say, but that wasn’t it.

“You do know that the last time a man came to my window, I called my brother to get rid of him,” I say. “I’m sure he told you about that.”

“He certainly did,” Levi said. “And if I were in my right mind, it might have deterred me.”

“You’re in your wrong mind, then?” I ask, tilting my head slightly, keeping my voice down.

“You didn’t ask what I named the dog,” he says.

“Did you come here at twelve-thirty in the morning to tell me you named your dog?” I ask.

Levi smiles, holds out one hand. I step forward and take it, his skin warm and he enfolds my fingers in his.

“No,” he says. “I came here to say that I think you should come back to my place for a nightcap.”

“A nightcap?”

“Yes,” he says. “I’d like to take you home, fix you a drink, and seduce you, and I’d like to do it without thinking even once of your brother.”


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About Roxie

I love writing sexy, alpha men and the headstrong women they fall for.

My weaknesses include: beards, whiskey, nice abs with treasure trails, 
sarcasm, cats, prowess in the kitchen, prowess in the bedroom, 
forearm tattoos, and gummi bears.

I live in California with my very own sexy, bearded, 
whiskey-loving husband and two hell-raising cats.

Connect with Roxie
Join her reader group The Roxettes: http://bit.ly/2K5fRLU
Stay up to date with Roxie by joining her mailing list: http://bit.ly/2SVTlb7

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

BOOK REVIEW for "Spark (Boosted Hearts, #3.5)" by Sherilee Gray


SUMMARY

Dex Colton has had enough. Being a Marine no longer on active duty and in desperate need of job was one thing. Living in a new city and working for his estranged family is another. But his brother about to marry his ex girlfriend? At Christmas, the very worst time of the year? Hell no. The only gift he wants right now is for the world to leave him alone. 
Until the day he visits a hole in the wall bar and sees... her.

It took more courage than she thought possible, but Hattie Sutton finally left behind a career she never wanted, and parents intent on squashing her every dream. Now she's in a brand new city, with a cute apartment and her dream job as a graphic designer. Absolutely nothing is going to distract her from her new path... certainly not the sexiest man-mountain she'd ever laid eyes on. Or one sizzling hot night in his arms.

Both are sure they'll never see each other again. But neither factored in a little Christmas magic... or the meddling Colton family...

Spark is a sexy Christmas novella.

~ BOOK REVIEW for Spark ~

****(4) out of 5 Stars!

This was a short-ish tale with a pretty big story.  In it we meet Dex, a long-lost (unkown) cousin of the Coltons from the original Boosted Hearts trilogy.  He is a big, rough looking, hunk of a man, who reminds me a lot of Hugh, and who is even more of a sweetheart.  He ends up in the Colton family trajectory mostly because he doesn't have anywhere else to go.  Plus, they offered him a job and a place to stay, so it's a pretty good deal.  But what he hadn't counted on was them making him a part of their clan so readily, and for him to fall under their spell so easily.  He also definitely did not plan on Hattie.

Hattie hadn't planned on meeting anyone anytime soon either, certainly not someone that she is instantly attracted to like Dex.  Sadly, she is all kinds of broken, and does quite a bit to cause Dex a lot of additional and unnecessary pain.  There were several times that I just wanted to smack her.  While I did feel some sympathy for her and what she'd dealt with from her own family, it still didn't excuse her behavior.  She acted more like a spoiled teenager than someone who was in her mid-20's and had been working as a lawyer.  And I just wanted to tell her family where to shove it.

This story has a lot of sweetness, heat, angst, drama, and passion, 
all rolled up in a tight little package and topped with some (at least attempted) holiday cheer.
Definitely a good choice for just sitting by the fire, sipping some hot cocoa and soaking it all in. 

Plus, we get the added bonus of getting small but significant glimpses into the happily-ever-afters of the original three couples (and related extras) from the Boosted Hearts books!


I received a free eBook copy of this title from the author,
and have willingly provided an honest review.

Monday, November 25, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Tasting Her Christmas Cookies" by Alina Jacobs

Tasting Her 
Christmas Cookies
by
Alina Jacobs
Publication date:
November 19th, 2019
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Romance

Winter is coming—and unfortunately it’s bringing Christmas with it.
I loathe the holiday. I hate holiday parties, fragrant decorations, and hokey movies. If I had my way it would be winter all year round and never Christmas.
Nothing burns like the cold—except a hot oven.
That’s right; against my better judgment I agreed to let The Great Christmas Bake-Off film in my tower.
And St. Nick help me but I even agreed to be a judge.  
Holly 
Christmas is like the perfect sugar cookie—it slowly melts in your mouth, sweetening every taste bud, making you wish it could last forever.
I love Christmas. I love the cheerful music, the fun sweaters, and the holiday lights. Most of all I love Christmas Cookies.
A begrudging bake-off judge, I refuse to let grouchy billionaire Owen Frost hate Christmas. The man is overworked, his employees are uninspired, and his life is seriously lacking in Yuletide cheer. I want to stuff his stocking with sugary goodness to put him in a very festive mood.
So I dressed up as a sexy elf and gave Owen a taste of something extra special. You should have seen his eyes roll back in his head when he bit into the perfect sugar cookie!
I can’t let Owen Frost be a distraction. Things are insane enough without a sexy billionaire.
My baking subscription service is in the death throes.
My Christmas-ruining step sister is trying to sabotage me in the bake-off.
I’m being stalked by elves on the shelf come to life.
Ok that last one is a little weird, but welcome to my disaster of a life.
I need to win The Great Christmas Bake-Off to pay of my debts and launch my baking career. Sleeping with one of the judges is going to ruin my chance for a merry Christmas. Owen with his washboard abs and big Christmas package is a bad idea. It’s best to keep that all wrapped under the tree.
But when he said in that deep, sexy voice, “Can I have another taste of your Christmas cookies?” Well, let’s just say I’m unwrapping one particular Christmas present early! 
Tasting Her Christmas Cookies is a standalone holiday romantic comedy. If you love Christmas desserts, like to laugh out loud at holiday innuendoes, and want Santa to put a tall, good-looking guy under your tree, then pick up this full-length, steamy romance novel! There are no cliffhangers but there is a very happy (Christmas!) ever after!

Excerpt:

“We are having a Christmas bath scene in the near future,” I said to the camera, “with holiday bath bombs and themed cocktails. But unfortunately, it won’t be tonight. The bake-off starts tomorrow, baking fans!”
I looked longingly at the bathtub. Then, making sure the phone was definitely not recording, because I did not need to be that kind of Instagrammer, I took a quick shower. I seriously could not get over how huge the bathroom was. I could live in it. With a toaster and a mini fridge, I would totally be good.
After wrapping myself in the robe, I tied a T-shirt around my hair. I had frizzy hair on a good day; keeping my curls manageable was a perpetual struggle. I applied a gingerbread-cookie-scented moisturizer while my videos uploaded. Because I was busy scrolling through my phone and answering comments as I came out of the bathroom, I didn’t notice the half-naked man until he swore.
I looked up and screamed.
“Help! Help! Stalker!” I shrieked and ineffectively pointed at the stranger. Between the rippling muscles, the washboard abs, and an ass I could bounce a quarter on, I hoped he wasn’t actually here to hurt me, because he could do some damage. Pointing and shrieking wasn’t going to stop him. Fortunately, he looked more shocked and horrified than angry and violent.
“Stop screaming!” he bellowed. A freezing breeze blew into the room. It was as if the man had brought the rage of winter into the master suite with him. He looked like it, too, with his ice-blue eyes and silver-white hair. “This is my penthouse. You are not authorized to be here. That makes you the stalker!”
I stopped screaming. It clearly wasn’t helping anything. I also couldn’t help but notice that the bathroom wasn’t the only thing that was huge in the room. With him wearing nothing but boxer briefs, I could tell Santa had brought the handsome man a very large Christmas package indeed. The breeze blew in from the balcony, swirling the strange man’s clean and masculine scent around the room. I forced myself to ignore it.
“Get out of my house,” Big Christmas Package said flatly.
“You get out!” I shrieked. “I’m a bake-off contestant. This isn’t your room!”
“What the—” he grabbed his clothes, tugging on his pants. “The Great Christmas Bake-Off? I cannot have Christmas invading every element of my life. This is ridiculous. Christmas is ridiculous. It’s such a stupid, childish holiday.” He punctuated his words by snatching up articles of clothing.
“Hey now!” I said, hands on my hips, fear subsiding. “Christmas is never ridiculous. It’s the best holiday ever. And if you can’t see that, well then, you’re just a grinch, aren’t you?”
He advanced on me. I was suddenly very aware of how large he was. Christmas package notwithstanding, this dude was tall, broad shouldered, with rippling muscles. He could probably split me in two.
Yes, please.
“You’re some stupid little baker who never outgrew the childish fantasy of Christmas,” he sneered.
My nose was inches away from his chest. He glowered down at me. I was too angry to be aware of his half-naked body. Okay, maybe I was like fifteen percent aware. But the majority of my energy was focused on being offended on behalf of Christmas.
“Don’t insult baking,” I said, giving him my best “I want to speak to the manager vibe,” though it was ruined by the fact that I had to crane my neck up to see him and that I was completely naked under the robe. “And never insult Christmas!”
His nostrils flared slightly.
“Men like you constantly belittle the work that women do to keep cultural traditions like Christmas alive,” I continued, poking him in the chest.
“We decorate homes to make them cozy.”
Poke.
“We cook holiday dinners and bake festive desserts.”
Poke.
“We host parties that bring families and friends together.”
Before I could poke him again, he grabbed my hand in his much-larger one. Then, realizing what he’d done, he quickly released it.
“I will not stand for your bad attitude!” I declared.
He glared down at me, strong jaw clenched, eyes cold as a frozen lake. “I can’t even believe this,” he finally snarled. He grabbed his briefcase and stormed out, still shirtless.
“Oh my God!” Fiona exclaimed, wide-eyed, as she ran into the room. She hugged me then pushed me to sit on the bed. “Are you okay? Who was that? Why was he in here? Someone call the police!”
“I knew it! You’re trying to steal my boyfriend,” Amber yelled at me, rushing into the room. “That’s Owen Frost, and he’s mine!”


Author Bio:
If you like steamy romantic comedies with a creative streak, then I'm your girl! 
Architect by day, writer by night, I love matcha green tea, chocolate, and books! So many books... 
Sign up for my mailing list to get the free novella, AFTER HIS PEONIES, along with special bonus content, giveaways, and more!: http://alinajacobs.com/mailinglist.html.


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Sunday, November 24, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "The Dirty Dozen: MC Edition"


The Dirty Dozen: 
MC Edition
Publication date:
November 23rd, 2019
Genres: Adult, Fairy Tales, Paranormal, Romance
11 Authors ~ 12 Novellas ~ 12 Hot Bikers 
Ever wonder what it’s like to take a walk on the wild side? 
Find out as these eleven authors show you as they take you on a journey through their MC Worlds. 
See what it’s like to be thrust into the dangerous world of an MC, where brotherhood and loyalty are more than just words. 
These eleven authors will have you captivated and wishing to wear one of their MC patches with each word you read. 
Participating Authors: 
Wraith – Kathleen Kelly
(noun) ~ a ghost or ghostlike image of someone, especially one seen shortly before or after their death. 
Desired – Natasha Thomas

His entire life had always been about three things; his club, his brothers, and his family. Until he met her. 
Royally Taken – Elle Boon

He’s the protector. Sometimes he walked a fine line between right and wrong, but make no mistake, when shit goes south, he’s the one you’d want to have your back. 
Sloth – Kay Maree

1%er, pain, blood, nothing but another nightmare followed by numbness, and the deep dark hole I don’t think I could pull myself out of again. 
Havoc’s Temptation – Lauren Firminger

Just when they thought the dust was starting to settle, Havoc brings a long lost secret to the surface. 
Charon MC – Khloe Wren

Blade is forced to learn a lesson when the price for exacting his vengeance becomes higher than he’d ever imagined it would be. 
Danger – Penny Blush

I am the President of Knights Fury MC; my life has been threatened. I don’t know who to trust. There’s a traitor in my club. Now I need to put my trust in a stranger to help save my club and my life. 
Diesel’s Choice – Lauren Firminger

Would a second chance be too much for me to give him though?
He handed me my heart back in pieces once. Would I survive round 2? 
Viper – Gemma Arlington

One girl in search of her father.
One guy willing to help.
One interesting and eventful night of passion. 
Slade – VR Baucke

Tova – Hades Horsemen Club Princess, forbidden temptation, and rule breaker.
Slade – Hades Horsemen VP, hot as sin, loyal to the bone, and has finally met his match. 
Tank – Ember Raine-Winters

Can Tank save Nadia against all odds, or will new revelations take her away? 
Executioner – Sammy King

An executioner who was forced to grow up with hate in his soul.
An innocent girl whose life isn’t what she believed.

 

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Saturday, November 23, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Mambo (Sultry Nights, #5)" by Melanie Munton


Mambo
(Sultry Nights, #5)
by Melanie Munton

Publication date:
November 19th, 2019
Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense
Mambo (n): a spicy, sensual dance with a high energy level, sometimes described as raunchy; characterized by a free and spontaneous style 
Sophie Fuentes didn’t get her family out of Miami. Now, el diablo has the most precious thing in the world to her. She has to put all of her trust in DEA agent Max Romano–trust that has been severely tested–in order to keep those she loves alive. But it’s not easy when the bullets start flying and cars start exploding. 
Max has already risked his life to protect Sophie, and he’ll risk it over and over again until she’s safe. This all started because he couldn’t keep his hands off her, and it will end because he’s too obsessed to ever let her go. Her enemies are now his enemies. And taking them down is nothing short of a life or death scenario. 
But those enemies also have no idea what lengths he’ll go to in order to protect the woman he can’t live without.

Whether he actually lives through it or not.

Excerpt:

Max

“Strip.”
The order comes out in a no-nonsense tone. I’m not playing around anymore. I want to see every inch of her naked body moving for me.
“Take off your clothes while you dance for me. Show me what I’m about to enjoy. Show me what’s mine, baby.”
She smiles coyly and kicks off her sandals first.
I scoff. “Smartass.”
She laughs as she reaches for her top. The cream-colored blouse could almost be considered demure compared to some of the dresses I’ve seen her in. But the skintight dark jeans she’s wearing are anything but demure. They hug her sweetheart of an ass so tight I can see the dimples of her rounded cheeks. And there’s a rip in the denim so high up on her thigh it’s almost indecent.
The top lands on the floor.
Her bra is the same color, cream with lace detailing. It looks like something a bride would wear on her wedding night. Don’t think about that. You’ll start getting all kinds of ideas. She certainly doesn’t need a wire bra or any kind of support because her natural tits defy gravity.
I need my hands on those. Then my mouth.
The jeans come off next. Goddamn, the panties match.
They’re satin and mesh, all wrapped up in a creamy little package that I want to take between my teeth and rip the fuck off. Especially since they’re covering up an even better package underneath. The contrast of that light cream material against her caramel skin has me practically drooling. She’s like some type of white chocolate/caramel dessert. Like…tiramisu? No, it’s not quite creamy enough. And cheesecake is almost too bland for Sophie’s rich flavor.
Crème brûlée.
Sophie is fucking crème brûlée.
She’s got that top layer of caramelized sugar that’s sweet but contrasts with the texture of the rich and smooth vanilla bean custard below. Her top sugar layer is the wall she erects around her heart that bars the rest of the world from seeing her true self. But once you’re able to work your way past that, you’re treated to the most succulent, addictive flavor you’ll ever taste.
And I have every intention of gorging myself on that flavor tonight.


Author Bio:
Traveler. Reader. Beach-goer. St. Louis Cardinals fan. Pasta-obsessed. North Carolina resident. Sarcastic. Bit of a nerd.

Author of the Cruz Brothers, Possession and Politics, and Timid Souls series, Melanie loves all things romance, comedies and suspense in particular because it’s boring to only stick to one sub-genre! From light-hearted comedies to sexy thrillers, she likes to mix it up, but loves her some strong alpha males and sassy heroines.

Go visit Melanie’s website and sign up for her newsletter to stay updated on release dates, teasers, and other details for all of her projects! 

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Thursday, November 21, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Avoiding the Abyss (The Abyss Trilogy, #1)" by A.C. Ward

Avoiding the Abyss 
(The Abyss Trilogy, #1)
by A.C. Ward
Publication date:
November 19th, 2019
Genres: Dystopian,
Fantasy, Young Adult
Aubrey has always been told she isn’t special.

If only that had remained true. 
Aubrey grew up as part of the rebel movement, protected but lonely. All she wants is her mother’s love, but without an ability she’s worthless in her mother’s eyes. 
When she’s captured by the government, Aubrey sees an opportunity to prove her worth. Instead, she realizes that her mother has been withholding many truths. Aubrey experiences an acceptance outside of the rebels that her heart has yearned for, and a discovery. She has an immunity that has never been seen before. 
But Aubrey isn’t immune, she’s absorbing powers as the key to the Abyss—a portal into the demon realm. Her mother finally sees purpose in her daughter and hopes to use it for her cause. Aubrey isn’t as certain. If she doesn’t gain control of her ability, she’ll open the gateway to hell and destroy everyone she’s come to care about. Including herself. 
The first installment in the Abyss trilogy, a coming of age YA dystopian fantasy. Perfect for fans of dystopian worlds, apocalyptic prophesies, and demon lore. 
Download now to find out if Aubrey will succeed in Avoiding the Abyss
The Complete Trilogy:


Excerpt:

It wasn’t the first time her mother had punched her in the face, and Aubrey doubted it would be the last. The most frustrating part was that she saw the punch coming. Not because it was slow—her mother, the paragon of the rebels, didn’t do slow—but because it was her typical move. Aubrey had fallen for the same thing in prior training sessions. She had learned tactics to avoid it, blocking the punch or turning to the side or even ducking, but indecision led to her freezing up.
Her mother’s controlled swing hit Aubrey in the jaw. She tasted blood. Trying her best to ignore it, Aubrey kept her feet moving, managing to pull back in time to evade the second swing. She had never been able to keep up with her mother but wanted to put up a good enough fight to avoid being a complete disappointment. Again.
Sparring matches were one of the few times Aubrey interacted with her mother. It had become a form of communication between them. The way her mother’s green eyes hardened to stone, the deep crease that formed between her brows, the firming of her lips as they turned down in displeasure, Aubrey could read them all. Her mother treated only her that way. A ball of tension twisted in her stomach, the pain of it worse than a connected blow could ever be.
Aubrey swung out at her mother, the punch a surprise even to herself, and sloppy. Her mother caught it in her own fist, the crease between her brows deepening. She used Aubrey’s own momentum against her, pulling her into the next blow. Aubrey tried in vain to turn it into a glancing blow, but the force of the impact snapped her head back. Dots danced in front of her eyes as Aubrey fell. Her mother released her grip to let her.
There were ways to fall to keep in the fight. Aubrey tried to get her body to do it, to roll back to her feet, but she flopped onto the rock ground instead with a sickening thud. She blinked, and the dots whirled, creating arcs of white light. Her mother stepped forward into the glow, pressing her advantage, and behind her an image formed.
Aubrey blinked but the figure remained. It was a man, and it was not. The scowl on his face was even fiercer than her mother’s. When he crossed his arms, Aubrey thought she saw three pairs of limbs folding over his bare ridged chest. He towered above her mother at an impossible height.
Aubrey lost her breath even before her mother’s kick connected with her side. What little air was left whooshed out of her lungs and she squeezed her eyes shut, giving in to the pain. The next kick popped them open wide again. Behind her mother, the figure was gone, burst like the figment of imagination he must have been.
The third kick had her body screaming in protest. Aubrey tried to roll away, to not just sit there and be beaten. Her mother was intent on her prey. The next blow to Aubrey’s side drained the last of her resistance. She curled in on herself, covered her head as best she could, and waited for the punishment to be over.
“Myra,” a voice interjected, warm and unhurried like the man it had come from.
Aubrey’s arms tightened even further around herself, wondering just how much of her shame he had witnessed.
Her mother paused, looking back over her shoulder to where he stood.
“They are asking for you, mi alma,” Tony said, the smile on his face one he reserved for Aubrey’s mother.
Myra frowned at him, her typical response to the pet name. “I’ve told you not to call me that.” She turned back to her daughter, her stance rigid. “Not good enough.”
Aubrey let the words pierce her, forcing her grip on herself to loosen. “I know.”
“You’re already at a disadvantage with no powers. You should be putting every effort into becoming useful in the one area where you have any chance.” Her mother stepped back and picked up a towel to wipe her face, though it wasn’t needed. Myra hadn’t even broken a sweat.
Aubrey’s own sweat ran in rivulets through her short-cropped hair. She used her trembling arms to push herself to a sitting position.
Myra tossed the towel, streaked with red dirt, into her lap. “This performance was even worse than last time.”
Aubrey tensed as her mother stepped toward her, half expecting another kick.
Myra crouched, forcing her daughter to meet her sharp eyes. “You’re becoming even more of a waste of time. If it gets any worse, we’ll end these sessions.” She stood again, turning her back on Aubrey.
Tony moved to the side of the entrance as she passed through, staring after her silently. When she was out of sight, he let out a heavy sigh and glanced at Aubrey where she was still frozen in place. “Happy fifteenth birthday, nena,” he said. Then he left to chase after her mother.
Aubrey stared at the rocky ground beneath her. Her hands curled into fists, the urge to hit something coming too late. She slammed them down hard enough to raise the dirt in plumes of red dust.


Author Bio:
Amanda Ward is a little worried that her internet search history is on some sort of watch list. For Death Daydreams, she researched serial killers, hidden rooms, death, suicide, and third-story falls. Her next work in process is only making it worse. 
Amanda lives with her husband, daughter, and various pets - dog, cat, gecko, fish, and tarantula. When she's not writing she's watching Netflix or rereading her favorite manga. She'd love to hear from her fans. You can contact her at wardabooks@gmail.com. 
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Wednesday, November 20, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "The Rule" by Maggie Cole

The Rule 
by Maggie Cole
Publication date: November 3rd, 2019
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
She’s got one rule: no dating clients. Too bad he doesn’t follow the rules. 
When Liv White meets billionaire Tom Marko, she’s about to take over his companies—but he wants her over him…and under him. (And everything in between.) It doesn’t hurt that Tom’s handsome, a basketball star with a body to match, and just the right kind of fierce.
What’s a whip-smart businesswoman to do?
Tom gives Liv an ultimatum: the deal’s off unless they use his Colorado mountain home for their next meeting. Despite her rule, Liv agrees. The truth is, she doesn’t know if she can resist Tom’s presence—or the feel of his hands on her. 
Just as the hunger between them becomes impossible to ignore, Tom’s past comes crashing back. The two are thrust into danger, and Tom and Liv must fight to keep their lives—and each other. 
THE RULE is the first installment of the All In series. At 95,000 words, this sizzling novel features a love-at-first sight romance and a guaranteed HEA.

Excerpt:

Olivia White was fifteen minutes early. It was a trait that got my attention and one that gave me fifteen extra minutes of blue balls.
She walked in and glanced around the conference room before she gazed up toward where I stood. Her blue eyes pierced directly at me, and I took a step back. I didn’t want her to know I was there and forgot for a moment that she couldn’t see me through the blackout glass.
“I need a few minutes to get set up. Will that be all right?” she asked one of my assistants.
Her sweet voice alone made the hairs on my neck stand up.
“Sure. The adapter is right in the table. Do you need anything else?”
She smiled kindly at him. “I think I’m good. Thanks, Paul.”
Paul left the room, and she turned back toward me.
Olivia licked, then slowly bit her perfectly pink, lower lip, and surveyed the room.
My dick pulsed as I wondered what it would be like to feel those plump lips on my own? What would her tongue taste like? Her mouth was a mouth meant to kiss for hours. No doubt, after you got done kissing her, you still wouldn’t want to stop.
I took another step, so I was as close to the glass as possible.
She walked to the front of the room and glanced up toward the blackout glass again. Did she sense I was here?
Her perfect, pert breasts rose and fell as she took a deep breath, walked back to the table, grabbed her bag, and pulled out her laptop. She plugged it into the adapter, so her presentation would pop up on the big screen.
Instead of sitting down, she leaned over and typed quickly on the keyboard. Her body hovered over the table, as her dress inched up the back of her thighs.
My mouth went dry. Her thighs were flawless. They looked silky smooth and volts shot up my spine. I could almost feel them squeezing my neck.
When her presentation popped up on the screen, she stood up straight and began to flatten her dress against her body. A flawless french manicure graced what resembled soft hands, and they glided over her stomach. She ran them over the curve of her waist. Then, almost as if just to tease me, she pushed them behind her and ran them over her butt and thighs.
My cock stood at full attention and visions of what she would look like naked flooded my mind. What would her hands feel like on my skin? Would she grip my hair in desperation to fly?
I eyed all of her. Her body was perfect. It would flawlessly fit against mine.
She sat and swiveled toward me, then crossed her legs. Her forearm pressed on the table, as she leaned comfortably back into the chair, and drummed her fingers on the table. Not nervously—more out of boredom.
I gazed down at her, as my pulse increased. My eyes went to her legs, bare between her short heels and the fitted dress that clung to her curves, and I felt my body become stiffer. As she continued to tap on the table, I thought about how those fingers would feel digging into my back.
She reached up and tucked a rogue strand back into her bun. I wanted to release that messy bun, run my fingers through the cascade of her hair, and tug it so I could feast on her long, luscious neck that was made for lips to brush against. What would she sound and feel like vibrating against my mouth?
My staff walked into the room and snapped me out of my thoughts. She stood up, turned her long and lean frame toward them, shook their hands, and exchanged hellos before she quickly took charge.
I stood mesmerized, as close to the glass as possible and listened to her present while hanging on her every word.
Olivia White didn’t just ooze sexy. No, she screamed intelligence and confidence as she presented out-of-the-box yet practical ideas and asked questions along the way. It dawned on me that she was bold but not cocky. There was no doubt that she knew her craft well, but I sensed that she had no idea how beautiful, smart, or sexy she really was.
That turned me on further.
I had seen her online, read about her in the papers, and watched her clean up her clients’ messes in press conferences. Her self-assurance told me that she was always in control. I wondered how it would feel to have her under me, shaking and losing all inhibition, whimpering and calling my name from those succulent lips, and begging me to send her to a new high.
My blood had raced through my veins from far away. Being this close to her, unleashed an entirely new level of desire.
And I cursed myself. I needed to stop these thoughts. My company required Olivia White’s expertise, and there was no way I would risk putting her in danger. She deserved more than someone with my screwed-up past. I couldn’t and wouldn’t allow myself to indulge in pursuing her.
No, I needed to stay away. Anything with her wouldn’t be superficial, and there was no way I could give myself the gratification. She was exceptional, a rare treasure, and I refused to expose her to my shameful past.


Author Bio:
Maggie Cole is the pen name of a multi-faceted woman. She's an entrepreneur at heart and loves writing contemporary steamy romance novels. Her books will make you feel lots of different emotions. Sometimes you'll laugh, sometimes you'll cry, sometimes you'll have little flutters racing through your veins...and that's Maggie's biggest wish for you when you read her novels. 
She's a wife, mother, and lives in the sunshine, where she can often be found staring off into space while creating new scenes in her mind. 
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Tuesday, November 19, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Pinky Promises" by Deana Birch

Pinky Promises 
by Deana Birch
Publication date:
November 18th, 2019
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
When her long-distance teaching buddy goes on maternity leave, New York City native Leyla Harraq, temporarily transplants to a sleepy beach town on the West Coast to manage her friend’s Hot Yoga studio. But the yogini’s brash spunk leads to an immediate social gaffe when she insults her new landlord, carpenter Adam Fields, and must backpedal to save face. 
Watching her hottie landlord wallow in solitary confinement after a brutal break-up will never do. Motivated by her own need for physical contact, Leyla happily offers herself as the perfect rebound. She’ll be gone in a couple of months, no one has to know, and she can wipe his ex right out of his mind… and body. After all, if anyone knows how to turn up the heat, it’s her. 
But when the studio owner realizes she can’t return to teaching full-time and asks Leyla to stay, the fish-out-of-water must make a choice. Can she abandon her commitment-free lifestyle for small town drama and a chance at love with a hunky hammer wielding man?
Goodreads / Amazon

~BOOK REVIEW for Pinky Promises~

*****(5) out of 5 Stars!

I have read several books lately with delightful couples, but Leyla and Adam really take the cake.  Separately, they are amazingly enjoyable; but together they are simply adoreable!

I was at first a wee bit reluctant to read this book, considering that one of the two love interests was already in a relationship with another woman when it began.  But that situation is quickly resolved (and later further explained) in a way that let him keep his Good Guy card intact.  And Adam was pretty much an all around great guy, the kind that any woman would be lucky to date.  

Leyla was completely different from anything he had ever experienced, from her New York accent to her brutal honesty.  She was a quirky, down-to-earth, genuinely nice person, and just the breath of fresh air that Adam hadn't even known that he needed.  

The pinky promises don't come in to play until about forty percent through the story, but they are a darling and very important part of the overall story.  Which primarily centers around how these two deserving people find each other, then navigate the often perilous but always worth it, joys and pitfalls of a new, intense, meaningful, and ultimately rewarding relationship.  

I received a free eBook copy of this title from NetGalley, 
and have willingly provided an honest review.

Excerpt:

She bent over. Again. And I stared. Again. And possibly drooled. What the hell was wrong with me? I’d been dating my girlfriend for ten years and never once thought of another girl in a totally inappropriate and downright lusty way.
Plus, I was her damn landlord. There had to be some kind of weird power thing making my dirty mind even worse. When the hell had I turned into Creepy McGoogly-Eyes? I shook my head like a confused dog and headed through my glass door into the open kitchen.
“Chicken okay for you?” I asked over my shoulder. That was the other thing. Why had I asked her to dinner? Maybe it was because I couldn’t figure her out. New York sass one minute and stupefaction the next. Yeah, that was it. Not her bendy little butt, coal-black hair or insanely charming accent.
“Chicken is perfect. Thank you so much for your hospitality; I really didn’t expect it.” Leyla’s soft smile revealed a small dimple in her chin. She tapped the counter a couple of times and surveyed the room before meeting me at the fridge. “What can I do to help?”
Damn, she was short. She didn’t even have to hunch down to look in at the shelves. And I didn’t fail to notice her offer. Whenever Holly came over, which was most nights when she wasn’t traveling for work, she would find excuse after excuse not to chip in. Either she’d just gotten her nails done or was too tired or would just blink and say, “I do love it when you spoil me, babe. You don’t mind if I chill, work was a bitch.” It had just seemed like something I’d accepted in our relationship. I’d often wondered how much she would do if we ever had kids. And if I was honest, it was one of the things holding me back from buying a ring.
“Give me something to chop.” Leyla held open her hands. “Or I can just rummage around and make a salad out of whatever I find.”
I pulled out the marinated chicken breast from the bottom drawer and met her olive eyes on the way back to standing. “Go for it. There’s a head of lettuce and vegetables in the second drawer. You want a beer?”
“You trying to get me drunk?” A small, sarcastic snarl wrinkled her face.
I yanked my head back, and she cringed.
“Fuck. I’m sorry. Oh, Christ, now I said fuck. And Christ. I’m so sorry.” Rapid blinks were followed by one long one and a sharp exhale from her nose. “I think I have a little bit of fish-out-of-water syndrome. I’m sorry if I offended you with my language or implied…”
She really was quite the little pickle. I couldn’t help but chuckle. “Is that a yes or a no?”
“Maybe it will help me stop committing social faux pas. A beer would be great, thanks.” Leyla pulled out two red peppers and an onion and set them on the counter. I stepped out of the doorway, opened the cooler, grabbed a longneck, and wiped the ice water it dripped onto a nearby dish towel.
A quick hiss escaped the bottle as I twisted the cap and brought it back to the kitchen. I slid the beer across the counter, where Leyla was already busy chopping vegetables.
“Just for the record, I don’t consider the swearing a problem. The gawker comment, yes,” I deadpanned.
Her face fell as she reached for the beer. The bottle hovered below her lips and her eyes went wide. “I—”
“Relax. I’m fucking with you.” And dear God, it was more fun than I’d had in a long time. She was easier to wind up than a toy from the dollar store.
She set the beer down and crossed her arms. Her eyes narrowed, but a glimmer of something, maybe mischief, betrayed what she probably wanted to read as anger.
“You were kinda staring at my ass.”
Her ass was kinda staring back as far as I was concerned, sending all kinds of voodoo messages that had somehow convinced me to check it out every chance I got. But no way was I confessing to that.
“Sorry. But no. I told you. I was just trying to figure out how you’d made yourself into a human pretzel.” Human pretzel in ridiculously revealing shorts.
Her slightly pouty lips plumped out and Leyla rolled her eyes. “Whatever, Mr. My Girlfriend is in Vegas.” She turned back to the vegetables, took a swig of the beer, and went back to work.




Author Bio: 
Born and raised in the Midwest, Contemporary Romance and Erotica writer, Deana Birch, now lives with her family in Europe. She can be found teaching yoga, ruining her children’s French homework, cleaning up dog vomit, writing her next book, or reading someone else’s. 



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#PinkyPromises

Monday, November 18, 2019

BOOK BLITZ for "Unravel You (Cole Brothers, #1)" by Diana A. Hicks

Unravel You 
(Cole Brothers, #1)
by Diana A. Hicks

Publication date:
November 18th, 2019
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
UNRAVEL YOU is the enthralling sequel to LOVE OVER LATTES and can be read as a standalone. It is also book one in the Cole Brothers series, a new family saga, binge reading experience: 5 brothers, 5 full-length novels in 5 months. 
College graduate Valentina never expected to fall for the hot as hell and intimidating Derek Cole when she accepted his offer to rent his property. 
From cottage to mansion, Valentina is certain she doesn’t deserve the fairytale unfolding. But Derek gets what he wants… and he wants her. 
He’s “the one” for her, but before she says I do, she has to survive a month long trip to his family’s estate in Atlanta. Gaining approval from four brothers and an over-protective mother might just be her hardest test yet. 
For billionaire Derek Cole, this homecoming is a chance to mend the damage he caused when he walked away from the family business. 
Just when they think they have a handle on their happily ever after… their past and future collide. 
Note: This is a steamy romance with explicit sensual scenes, happily ever after, no cheating, and no cliffhanger. Can be read as a standalone. 
Praise for LOVE OVER LATTES:

“Hicks’ first installment of her Desert Monsoon series is confident and assured with strong storytelling, nuanced characters, and a dynamic blend of romance and suspense…A sexy and irresistible tale for fans of contemporary romance.” – Kirkus Reviews 
Don’t miss out on this suspenseful and seductive series:
Unravel You, Book 1 (Derek and Valentina) – 11/18/2019

Provoke You, Book 2 (Matt and Ela) – 12/16/2019

Escape You, Book 3 (Tyler and Mia) – 1/13/2020

Unleash You, Book 4 (Wesley and Anabelle) – 2/10/2020

Defy You, Book 5 (Zack and Rebecca) – 3/9/2020
Only 99¢ for a limited time!

Excerpt:

“You had a plan when you walked into my office five minutes ago. What was it?” He gripped the edge of the armrest with both hands, crossing his legs at his ankles. The tiny flame in my chest grew bigger and spread down to my core.
“I had no plan.” I admitted because the extent of my thoughts when he texted was to come in here and have sex. All I could think of was touching him and feeling his weight on me again. But now I was a little pissed. He could’ve been more explicit. Like, hey, I’m just here to work, bring me the report. No sex. Get your mind out of the gutter. He could also wipe that knowing smile off his face. “What makes you think I had a plan?” I crossed my arms over my chest to cover my hardened nipples.
He rubbed the side of his face. “The thigh-high stockings. You know how they drive me wild. Even if I can’t see them, I know that’s the only kind you own.”
If that was true, why was he still five feet away from me? Why had he not ripped my clothes off already and had his way with me on the couch?
“I have a meeting to go to.” I bolted to the door. Before I could open it, his large hand pressed against it, effectively blocking me from leaving.
“I don’t think so.” His voice was deep and so full of meaning. He walked me back to the living area until my butt hit the back of the sofa. “You had a plan. Show me.” He gripped my waist and shifted so he was the one caged in.
I could go, or I could stay and get what I came here for. I slipped my hands inside his suit jacket and pushed it off his shoulders. His dark gaze stayed on me as I removed his dress shirt. A low moan like a hiss escaped his lips when I ran my hands down his muscled chest. His pecs were harder than I remembered. It seemed Derek’s hard body was directly proportional to the amount of stress he had at work. The more they pinned on him, the more time he spent in his boxing ring. These past three weeks must have been hell for him.
“Now you.” His voice sounded strained.
Self-control was Derek’s superpower. I gave up all pretenses and removed my blazer and silky top quickly. My skin felt hot from needing him so much. His lips parted when I finally let my skirt pool at my feet.
He cradled my face and kissed me hard. “Fuck. Valentina. You came to work wearing that underneath?” His mouth was warm, and he tasted of cinnamon gum. I melted into him, fumbling with his belt.
“The door.” I panted in between kisses.
“I locked it.” He gripped my ass and wrapped my legs around his waist as he strode around the sofa and sat with me straddling him. “Valentina. How do you do it? How do you make me forget about everything?” He freed me from my bra and sucked on my aching nipples, switching back and forth until I couldn’t wait anymore.
“I need you now,” I whispered in his ear.
I didn’t care that my voice was laced with desperate desire. He cupped my butt cheeks and lifted me enough to give him room to lie flat on the cushions with his head on the decorative pillow. My thighs rubbed his sides as I rested on top of him, topless and without a clue what to do next.
My confusion must have registered on my face because he placed both hands behind his head and grinned at me. His biceps bulged on either side of him.
“Your show.”
“What?”
He bucked under me to get comfortable, as if he were getting ready to watch a movie or something. The grin that twitched his lip was both infuriating and such a turn-on.
“You want me inside you. Do it.”



Author Bio:
Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy contemporary romance with a touch of suspense. Book two in her Desert Monsoon series, LOVE OVER LOGIC, won the 2019 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner in the Romance – Suspense genre. 
When Diana is not writing, she enjoys kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases. 
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