Archives for March 2017

** FRIDAY FAVORITES with Catherine Lanigan **

 

Join me every Friday to see my spotlight on one of my favorite authors who will be sharing a few of their favorite things!

 


 

 

Featured today is Harlequin Heartwarming author CATHERINE LANIGAN!  Thanks for joining me and sharing some of your favorites Catherine!

 

 

Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of over forty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, and more.  Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs.  Her Vietnam war-based  novel, The Christmas Star,  won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine  and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference. 

Currently, she has published six novels in the Shores of Indian Lake series for Harlequin Heartwarming:  Love Shadows, Heart’s Desire, A Fine Year for Love, Katia’s Promise and Fear of Falling.  Sophie’s Path pubs July, 2016.   She has recently contracted for three more in the series: Protecting the Single Mom, (April, 2017) Family of his Own (July, 2017)  Mica’s Baby (December, 2017). 

The HALLMARK CHANNEL has contracted to film the first in the Indian Lake series as a television movie, HEART’S DESIRE. Air date TBA.


CONNECT WITH CATHERINE:

Website   |   Twitter   |   Facebook   |   Goodreads   |   Amazon

 


 

My favorite color is … pink. No, aqua. No pink. No aqua.

My favorite place to read is … in bed. On the sofa. In the car. In an airplane.

My favorite snack is … grapes and nuts.

My favorite type of music is … torchy love songs…to Debussey.

My favorite hot beverage is … coffee.

My favorite type of flower is … alive…I love them all and grow most of them!

My favorite time of day is … anytime the sun is on a horizon. Sunrise and Sunset.

My favorite candy is … Turtles…made in my hometown by our confectionary.

My favorite hobby is … flower arranging.

My favorite place to vacation is … visiting friends in warmer climates than the one in which I live.

 


 

Look for Catherine’s latest release, PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM, releasing tomorrow!

 


PRE-ORDER LINKS:

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PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM
Shores of Indian Lake

 

Getting involved shouldn’t be this dangerous… 

Cate Sullivan is no damsel in distress. She’s kept herself and her son safe for six long years. Built a good life in Indian Lake. But now that her drug-dealing ex-husband is moving his operation here, that life is about to explode. 

Her instincts tell her to trust Detective Trent Davis. That he’s more than just a handsome cop doing his duty. The former Green Beret has even formed a fast bond with her son. But there’s something he’s not telling her. Some darkness that keeps him from giving in to the feelings she knows are growing between them. Cate trusts Trent to keep her safe, but the real question is whether he’ll trust himself with her heart.

 


 

Previously in the series …



 


 

Coming in July 2017 in the series …

 


PRE-ORDER LINKS:

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FAMILY OF HIS OWN
Shores of Indian Lake

He’s ready to settle down…with or without her 

Scott Abbott has always loved Isabelle Hawks. And he’s always been her rock. Patient, dependable, strong. But lately, she’s been acting like that rock is weighing her down. With her art career taking off, Isabelle has been spending less and less time in Indian Lake…and with him. Scott isn’t even sure what they are to each other anymore. They might be friends with a history, but it sure doesn’t feel like a future. Maybe it’s time for Scott to set her free and focus on his own dreams. A real home. A family. All the things he had hoped to share with her…

* Review * HER BABY, HIS LOVE by Lynne Marshall

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * HER BABY, HIS LOVE by Lynne MarshallHer Baby, His Love by Lynne Marshall
Published by Tule Publishing on March 27, 2017
Buy on Amazon
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four-stars

All Taylor Clark ever wanted was a normal life and a traditional family, but so far she’s had neither. Soon after discovering that her boyfriend was secretly engaged and she moves to Charity, Montana for a fresh start, she realizes she’s pregnant. As her new friendly and sexy landlord helps her settle in, they become friends, although Taylor has to keep reminding herself to keep her distance. The last thing she needs is to start something new.

As an ex-con, Joe Collins knows a little something about fresh starts. Despite his determination to keep his head down, he can’t ignore Taylor’s natural beauty or obvious vulnerability. In short time, a tentative friendship blooms along with something more precious—trust.

When Taylor’s ex comes to town, he threatens everything that Joe and Taylor have built together. Joe steps up to care for and protect her, even though he risks losing more than the woman he loves.


A sweet story of redemption. Finding a reason to trust again after a lifetime of disappointment leads to a new chance on life for Taylor, and Joe finds a way to forgive himself for past mistakes by becoming a good and honest man. They’re an adorable couple … and it’s a pleasure watching them find their way to each other.

Taylor Clark is looking for a fresh start after finding out that yet another man has let her down in life, so she moves to Charity, Montana. From the start, she’s attracted to the property manager of the house she’s renting, but she’s not ready to let another man into her life again … and when she shockingly realizes she’s pregnant with her ex’s baby, it just complicates the situation even more!

Joe Collins is attracted to Taylor as well, but he leads a different type of life here in this small town, and he’s not sure about adding a relationship to the mix. They agree to be friends and tell each other their secrets, but along the way they continue to rely on each other and grow closer. Taylor is able to overcome the fact that Joe is an ex-con, and Joe is willing to step up and care for her more than anyone ever has.

When her ex shows up in town making waves, will their fledgling relationship be over, or will they find a way to get their happily-ever-after?

four-stars

* Review * DEFENSIVE ZONE by Catherine Gayle

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * DEFENSIVE ZONE by Catherine GayleDefensive Zone by Catherine Gayle
Series: Portland Storm #15
Published by Night Shift Publishing on March 23, 2017
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four-stars

Portland Storm defenseman Cody “Harry” Williams owes his coach everything—especially for bailing him out of trouble in the past. How does he want Cody to repay him? By keeping his hands to himself around the coach’s sensual and mischievous daughter. All signs point to this task being easier said than done…

Up-and-coming fashion designer Dani Weber always gets what she wants—and she wants Cody Williams. Cody’s sexy, geeky-chic bowties and hard-to-get attitude only make her want him more, and now Cody’s resistance is fading…and fast.

One call is all it would take to land Cody on the trading block, ending their flirtation before it gains any traction. Cody is squarely in the Defensive Zone, but the only way for the two of them to obtain what they really want is to go on the offensive—together.


Relentlessly pursued … and loving every minute of it! Dani isn’t going to take no for an answer, and the way she pushes Cody’s buttons, he doesn’t really want her to. We caught a glimpse of them in a previous book and it was fun to get their story now!

Portland Storm defenseman Cody “Harry” Williams is all about control. He needs his hockey career to go smoothly so he can take care of his family as needed. When the coach’s daughter starts making waves in her pursuit of him … just after her dad had to bail him out of trouble … he’s trying his very best to keep her at arms length so her dad doesn’t trade him.

On the cusp of getting a fashion designing career of the ground, Dani Weber is happy to be back home in Portland again … and close to Harry. She wants him … more than just about anything ever … and she’s really getting irritated that he won’t give in and give her what she wants! She’ll keep her father under control … if only she can get Cody into her bed!

four-stars

* Blog Tour / Book Review * CRAZY FOR YOU by Rachel Lacey

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * CRAZY FOR YOU by Rachel LaceyCrazy for You by Rachel Lacey
Series: Risking It All #2
Published by Forever on March 28, 2017
Buy on Amazon
Goodreads
five-stars

SHE'S TAKING A WALK ON HIS WILD SIDE

Emma Rush can't remember a time when she didn't have a thing for Ryan Blake. Haven's resident bad boy is just so freakin' hot-with tattoos, a motorcycle, and enough rough-around-the-edges sexiness to melt all her self-control. Now that Emma's over being a "good girl," she needs a little help being naughty . . . and she knows just where to start.

Before Emma's brother enlisted in the military, he made Ryan promise that he would protect her from everything--including himself. When her brother doesn't come home, Ryan needs to turn his screwed-up life around to honor his pledge. But he knows he's still not the right kind of guy for someone as sweet as Emma. Only he can't stop wanting to be with her. Wanting her. Falling in love with a good girl may be the craziest risk this bad boy can take . . .


An adorably hot couple, a group of friends and lots of laughs! Rachel Lacey has slayed the friends to lovers trope with this latest installment in her Risking It All series. I love this group of friends in general, but Emma and Ryan together just tore up the pages! STEAMY! Can’t wait for more out of Haven, NC!

Good girl Emma Rush has a hankering for a bad boy … and she knows just where to find one!

Ryan Blake is a bad boy personified! The sexy swagger, the no commitment attitude, the motorcycle, the tattoos … HOT! He came back to Haven, NC a few months ago to open up an outdoor sporting facility with his buddies Ethan and Mark. They are having the time of their lives getting this thing up and running, but being around Emma again after all these years is sweet torture! He was best friends with her brother back in high school and when he went off to join the military, he promised him he’d take care of her for him … that might have been a dozen years ago, and her brother might have never made it home, but Ryan still feels the weight of that promise to his core. He might want to get his hands on the sexy doll she’s become, but he can’t do that to his friend … it would be wrong … wouldn’t it??

 

 

 

Crazy for You
Risking It All #2

By: Rachel Lacey

Releasing: March 28, 2017
Forever

 

BLURB:

“Rachel Lacey is a sure-fire star.” — Lori Wilde, New York Times bestselling author

SHE’S TAKING A WALK ON HIS WILD SIDE

Emma Rush can’t remember a time when she didn’t have a thing for Ryan Blake. Haven’s resident bad boy is just so freakin’ hot-with tattoos, a motorcycle, and enough rough-around-the-edges sexiness to melt all her self-control. Now that Emma’s over being a “good girl,” she needs a little help being naughty . . . and she knows just where to start.

Before Emma’s brother enlisted in the military, he made Ryan promise that he would protect her from everything–including himself. When her brother doesn’t come home, Ryan needs to turn his screwed-up life around to honor his pledge. But he knows he’s still not the right kind of guy for someone as sweet as Emma. Only he can’t stop wanting to be with her. Wanting her. Falling in love with a good girl may be the craziest risk this bad boy can take . . .

 

Link to Follow Tour:  http://tastybooktours.com/tours-master/2016/12/27/crazy-for-you-risking-it-all-2-by-rachel-lacey

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30842422-crazy-for-you

Goodreads Series Link https://www.goodreads.com/series/180210-risking-it-all

 

Buy Links:      AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO

 

EXCERPT:

Whoa. Emma closed her eyes and let out a shriek as Ryan guided the motorcycle onto Main Street and picked up speed. The cold wind whipped her face, taking her breath away. Beneath her, the engine rumbled and roared like a wild thing. Holy sh*t. She was on the back of Ryan Blake’s bike, and it was amazing.

The wind bit through her thin, knit gloves, hitting her fingers with an icy blast. Actually, every part of her was freezing, but she didn’t care. She wrapped her arms more firmly around Ryan’s waist, anchoring herself to him so she didn’t tumble off the back of the bike, and somehow her hands slipped beneath his jacket. Ahh. That was better. Toasty warm, and also…her hands were on his T-shirt. Even through her gloves, she felt the hard contour of his abs, and nope, she wasn’t cold now.

And this was absolutely freaking amazing.

She hung on tight as he guided them over Haven’s twisting mountain roads, deserted at this hour. Overhead the moon shone like a beacon, illuminating the night in its soft, silvery glow. The roar of the engine and the slap of the wind against her face shocked her senses. It was thrilling, invigorating, so completely different from riding inside a car.

She’d never have done this if Mandy hadn’t dared her, and now she felt like her eyes were open for the first time in years. This was what she needed. Somewhere along the way, as she sat at the bar talking to Ryan, she’d realized she was having fun, really having fun. And she wanted more. She wanted it all, every last wild and crazy fantasy.

All too soon, her building came into view. Ryan cut the engine and guided them quietly into the driveway, coming to a stop behind her silver Toyota RAV4. He turned his head to look at her, so sexy in his helmet and riding glasses. “So how was it?”

“Even better than I thought it would be.” She gulped for air. His lips were way too close to hers, and she was still a little bit drunk on beer and a whole lot drunk on her first motorcycle ride. Mandy’s words echoed in her ears. Bonus points if you kiss him. Just stand up a bit, lean over his shoulder, and…

Emma leaned forward, her chest sliding up his back as she tipped her face to his. Holy hell, she had completely lost her mind, but she was going for it. Every nerve in her body went haywire.

Clunk. Her helmet smacked into his, drawing her up an inch short of his lips.

 

AUTHOR INFO:

Rachel Lacey is a contemporary romance author and semi-reformed travel junkie. She’s been climbed by a monkey on a mountain in Japan, gone scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, and camped out overnight in New York City for a chance to be an extra in a movie. These days, the majority of her adventures take place on the pages of the books she writes. She lives in warm and sunny North Carolina with her husband, son, and a variety of rescue pets.

Author Links:   WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

 

 

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five-stars

* Blog Tour / Book Review * HARD TO HOLD by Arell Rivers

* Blog Tour / Book Review * HARD TO HOLD by Arell RiversHard to Hold by Arell Rivers
Series: The Hold Series #2
Published by Tarnished Halo Publishing LLC on December 16, 2016
Buy on Amazon
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four-stars

Cheer for Rose Morgan—strong, determined and driven—a brilliant publicist who thought she had finally overcome her tragic past when, once again, her life is turned upside down. Rose and Cole’s passionate love story continues in this second full-length novel in The Hold series.

Distraught by news of Cole’s unexpected marriage, Rose Morgan tries to pick up the pieces of her life, only to be confronted by Cole at every turn. With her PR career in serious jeopardy, Rose can’t escape his orbit and is forced to continue working on his account. Under snowballing pressure, she seeks solace from unlikely sources.

Reeling from the disastrous fallout after his drunken night in Las Vegas, rock star Cole Manchester is a tormented man. He reaches out to Rose, the one woman who has always fixed his mistakes, only to realize that he might have pushed her away forever. Now, he’ll do whatever it takes to get her back.

Rose and Cole each must face their deepest fears if their love is to survive. But Cole’s stalker is becoming increasingly unhinged … and dangerous. In the end, Rose and Cole must decide if some things are just too Hard to Hold.


The continuation of Rose and Cole’s story is an exciting read! The story builds on the same characters as the first book with a few new faces mixed in. It too ends on a cliffhanger, and we are left anticipating the third and final installment!

Publicist Rose Morgan is distraught when it appears her boyfriend married someone else! Yes, she had doubts and gave him reason to be upset, but to go off and marry someone else? She can’t believe he’d do this to her!

Rock star Cole Manchester swears he didn’t marry anyone! Yes, he got drunk and went off with this woman who he later figured out was his stalker, but he wasn’t crazy enough to marry her … was he?

Rose’s job is on the line as she tries to fix this mess of Cole’s image. Can she believe him when he swears he didn’t do anything with this woman or is he only further lying to her? As the stalker becomes more enraged, will the bodyguards be able to keep them safe?

 

 

 

Hard to Hold

by Arell Rivers
The Hold Series
Publication Date: December 16, 2016
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

 

Hard to Hold – Excerpt

… I grab my purse and yank the door open. Of course, one of my nails breaks in the effort, but I’m beyond caring. I just need to escape. I rush past the cubicles toward the elevator. I’m sure no one even noticed that I left, except maybe Kim, who probably feels triumphant.

A heavy hand lands on my arm, abruptly halting my progress toward the lobby and freedom. A deep male voice growls in my ear. “I said stop.”

When I look up, angry green eyes bore down into me. Cole glances around and pulls us into an unoccupied office.

“Rose.”

I reply through gritted teeth, “Cole.”

“We need to talk.”

“This isn’t the time or the place.”

“I don’t give a fuck.” He runs a hand through his hair. His eyes now register hurt and anger in equal measure. My defenses start to lower, so I work double-time to shore them back up. “Ro, this is killing me.”

“You don’t think it’s killing me, too?” Refusing to look back into his eyes, I feign a sudden fascination with my hand, rubbing my broken nail over my index finger. Polish has chipped off that nail, too.

“The photos. Mom. Us. It’s too much.”

“Kim can provide an objective eye. Let her help you.”

He takes hold of my shoulders. “Fuck, I can’t do that. Everything is so out of whack. I need you.”

Refusing to look at him, I close my eyes. Which only intensifies my awareness of him. The heat emanating from his body, the way his fingers tighten and loosen on my shoulders. His musky scent. I could step forward and be in his embrace. It would comfort both of us. But no, he has to go through those photos. I need him to focus on the task at hand.

“Can you please help me with the photos? Nothing more. I just. Can’t. Think.” His large frame shudders.

Julie was a wonderful woman. Those photographs show her love for him. I can’t let him go through this alone.

“Yes,” I whisper, surprising us both.

He wraps me in his embrace. Being surrounded by his arms is heaven. I inhale his intoxicating scent, allowing myself to enjoy being here, my face pressed against his chest, his chin on top of my head.

A few moments pass. I need to stop this. We’re not a couple anymore. The words “Mrs. Starr Manchester” flash before my closed eyes.

 

 

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Kobo | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Succumb to Cole Manchester—talented, witty, charming, sexy and oh-so flawed—a womanizing rock star whose shallow life is transformed when he experiences love for the first time.

From the outside, Cole Manchester seems to have it all: looks, fame, money, awards and women. When tragedy strikes, he realizes how hollow his life is, and opens the door to the one thing he’s never considered … finding love. He’s inexplicably drawn to the quiet wallflower who works on his team, a line he knows he shouldn’t cross.

After devastating heartbreaks, all Rose Morgan wants is to blend into the woodwork. Working at her dream job as a publicist, she’s safely hiding in plain sight. Until her client, the sexy Cole Manchester, notices her. Rose must ignore her desires in order to protect her bruised heart … and keep her prized career.

Cole needs Rose to teach him how to love. Rose needs Cole to teach her how to trust. Together, they form a bond ignited by passion but fueled by insecurities. When her mother’s interference collides with his fan’s twisted plot, Cole and Rose may find themselves with No One To Hold.

Hard to Hold (Book #2 in The Hold Series)
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Kobo | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Cheer for Rose Morgan—strong, determined and driven—a brilliant publicist who thought she had finally overcome her tragic past when, once again, her life is turned upside down. Rose and Cole’s passionate love story continues in this second full-length novel in The Hold Series.

Distraught by news of Cole’s unexpected marriage, Rose Morgan tries to pick up the pieces of her life, only to be confronted by Cole at every turn. With her PR career in serious jeopardy, Rose can’t escape his orbit and is forced to continue working on his account. Under snowballing pressure, she seeks solace from unlikely sources.

Reeling from the disastrous fallout after his drunken night in Las Vegas, rock star Cole Manchester is a tormented man. He reaches out to Rose, the one woman who has always fixed his mistakes, only to realize that he might have pushed her away forever. Now, he’ll do whatever it takes to get her back.

Rose and Cole each must face their deepest fears if their love is to survive. But Cole’s stalker is becoming increasingly unhinged … and dangerous. In the end, Rose and Cole must decide if some things are just too Hard to Hold.

To Have and to Hold (Book #3 in The Hold Series)
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon AU | Kobo | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

Rally around Cole Manchester and Rose Morgan: the rock star and his publicist are about to face their most perilous trials yet. Cole and Rose’s passionate love story culminates in this third full-length novel in The Hold Series.

Back in the spotlight for his world tour, Cole Manchester performs hit after hit before delighted fans. However, his heart remains firmly in Los Angeles with Rose, whose condition remains critical following their terrible car wreck.

After lying unconscious for weeks, Rose Morgan awakens to find herself professionally and personally adrift. Her scrambled memories have convinced her Cole is dangerous, compelling her to shut him out and face an uncertain future on her own.

With nothing left to lose, Cole’s crazed stalker executes her final desperate act. After an explosive finale, who will survive her deadly rampage?

Destinies will be altered. Intentions stripped bare. Rose and Cole must face all of their remaining demons if their love is to survive. In the trilogy’s thrilling conclusion, they’ll discover if they truly have each other forever To Have and To Hold.

About Arell Rivers

For as long as I can remember, I have been lost in a book. During my senior year in college, I picked up a Danielle Steel novel … and instantly was hooked on romance.

I started writing my first novel, No One to Hold, because the characters were screaming at me to do so. The story started coming out in my dreams and attacking me in the shower, so I took to the computer to shut them up. But they kept talking.

Born and raised in New Jersey, I have what some may call a “checkered past.” Prior to discovering my passion for writing romance, I practiced law, was a wedding and event planner and even dabbled in marketing. I live with a very supportive husband and two mischievous cats. When not in my writing cave, I can be found making dinner in the crock pot, working out with Shaun T or hitting the beach.

I hope you enjoy my stories about driven men, strong women and the passions that ignite!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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four-stars

* Blog Tour / Release Blast * FOREVER MINE by Erin Nicholas

Title: FOREVER MINE
Author: Erin Nicholas
Series: Opposites Attract, #2

On Sale: March 28, 2017
Publisher: Forever
Mass Market: $7.99 USD
eBook: $3.99 USD

Add to Goodreads

 

The second book in New York Times bestselling author Erin Nicholas’s series about three geeky girls and the hunky guys who fall for them.

Maya Goodwin doesn’t believe in holding back. Ever. As a cop, she never hesitated to throw herself into harm’s way to save someone. Even after an injury on the job forces her to retire, she’s not afraid to keep risking it all to get the life she wants. With a new career teaching martial arts to kids already underway, she’s looking forward to the future – and taking a chance on the unbelievably hot Dr. Alex Nolan.

Maya – daring and spontaneous – is the exact opposite of what Alex always thought he wanted. But when a nine-year-old daughter he never knew existed shows up on his doorstep, Maya is the one who helps them hold it together. With love on the line, will the guy who’s always played it safe be willing to take the biggest risk of all?

 


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EXCERPT
:

Alex laughed. He liked Maya. The thought hit him directly in the gut.

Maya smiled brightly, and he admitted that he was intensely attracted too. Now fast attraction—that he’d experienced before. But it had been a long time since even that had happened.

“I’m Dr. Alex Nolan. I’m on staff at Boston Children’s Hospital. I’m on their website if you want to look me up.”

Maya suddenly frowned. “I can’t believe I didn’t think of that.”

“Of what?”

“Googling pediatricians and finding out who you are after the mall the other day,” Maya said.

Alex raised an eyebrow. “Wouldn’t that be a little creepy?”

“Probably,” she agreed. “Maybe that’s why I didn’t do it.”

He laughed. “Well, to further decrease the creep factor, I do have a kid,” he said. “A daughter. Charlotte. We call her Charli. She’ll be ten next month. She’s very into superheroes, GR, and swords, and I know nothing about any of that. I liked the demonstration at the mall and thought I’d come check out your studio.”

“So you’re wanting to sign her up,” Maya said with a nod. “Okay, not creepy at all.”

“Uh…” Alex knew this was going to sound strange. “Actually I want to take the class myself.”

Maya frowned. “These classes won’t teach you about superheroes exactly,” she said. “They are kind of a combination of stage fighting and martial arts and self-esteem workshops.”

“I know.” He’d been on the website. Which is how he’d found out more about the studio. And where he’d stared at Maya’s photo before going in to look up more about her on the internet. Which was how he found out that her classes had won some local awards, she’d been a brilliant cop—who had not, incidentally, been fired for beating someone up—and that she regularly blogged about superheroes and their fandom and the psychology of that fandom. He’d bookmarked her page immediately.

“And the things you do in class sounds like the perfect bonding activity for Charli and me. I’ll take the class and then go home and teach her.”

Maya looked puzzled. “Why not just bring her to class?”

“She…” He swallowed. Charli would love Maya. Hell, if she saw Maya with those pointy-weapon-things, she’d want to be Maya.

But Alex had only seen Maya twice, and he’d already witnessed her get hit with a Bo staff, punched in the ribs, and cut with some kind of sharp hand weapon. Which reminded him that she’d been bleeding.

He looked down, but the bleeding had already slowed or stopped. Which was what happened when a person with normal blood got cut. But Charli didn’t have normal blood. She didn’t bleed faster, but she would bleed longer—because of the genetic mutation he had passed on to her.

He’d told her mother that Charli should be able to try whatever she wanted. But he’d also told her he’d keep Charli safe. If Charli took classes here, he would have to fill Maya and her staff in on the hemophilia and precautions and treatment…

“She has some special needs,” he said, cringing a little as he said it, knowing that Maya might easily jump to conclusions that were not at all correct. But it didn’t matter what she thought. This was the right thing for Charli.

But Maya didn’t even blink. “Okay,” she said. “I understand. Maybe…” But she trailed off while watching him thoughtfully without completing the sentence.

“Maybe what?” he asked.

“Maybe I could teach you and your daughter a private Super You class.”

He was surprised at her offer, but more—he was tempted. Which meant he had to say no. The timing for meeting a gorgeous, intriguing woman couldn’t have been worse. “I think a class with lots of other people, especially kids, would be better.”

“Why?”

Maya was direct. He liked that. And he could return the favor. “Because you look just as good in workout pants as you do in leather.”

Her eyes widened in surprise just a beat before her smile widened. “And that’s a problem?”

“It is when I’m trying to give all of my extra time and attention to my daughter.”

She studied him for a moment. “Okay,” she finally said with a nod. “And once you see the class, if you change your mind, she’s always welcome.”

Alex relaxed. “Thanks.”

“You’re not going to feel funny taking a class with a bunch of kids?”

“I love kids,” he told her.

“What about the tights and cape?”

“Tights and cape?” Alex repeated.

“The costume,” she said with a nod.

“Thought the participants all helped create their own character,” he said, realizing she was messing with him.

“They do.”

“Well, there’s no way in hell I would create a character that would wear tights.”

Maya’s gaze wandered over him, head to toe, before she said, Too bad.”

 

THE OPPOSITES ATTRACT SERIES

COMPLETELY YOURS, #1

FOREVER MINE, #2


Series Page on Goodreads

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Erin Nicholas is the author of sexy contemporary romances. Her stories have been described as toe-curling, enchanting, steamy and fun. She loves to write about reluctant heroes, imperfect heroines and happily ever afters. She lives in the Midwest with her husband who only wants to read the sex scenes in her books, her kids who will never read the sex scenes in her books, and family and friends who say they’re shocked by the sex scenes in her books (yeah, right!).

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* Review * SO WRONG IT MUST BE RIGHT by Nicole Helm

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Review * SO WRONG IT MUST BE RIGHT by Nicole HelmSo Wrong It Must Be Right by Nicole Helm
Series: Gallagher & Ivy
Published by Lyrical Press on March 21, 201
Buy on Amazon
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three-half-stars

It’s all fun and games until fantasy gets real . . .

At twenty-seven, Dinah Gallagher thought she’d have it all figured out. Instead, she’s having mind-blowing online sex with a man she knows nothing about and fighting for her rightful place in the family business. Part of that battle means expanding their century-old restaurant by getting the stubborn urban farmer next door to sell them his lot.

But Carter Trask is tired of being pushed around—especially by rich families like the Gallaghers. All he has left is the little farm he’s scratched out of his grandmother’s yard. At least he can blow off steam with the anonymous woman he’s been emailing for the past eight months, who makes his every sexual fantasy come alive—even if it’s only online.

When Dinah suddenly realizes that Carter’s gardens look just like some of her mystery man’s photos, she can’t resist trying to turn her dreams into reality. Against his better judgment, Carter joins in the game. But in real life, passion has a way of becoming very complicated, very quickly. And sometimes the wrong choice can turn out to be oh so right . . .


An online hook-up starts to feel all too real with this pair of secret lovers! The premise of the book was fun … who wouldn’t freak out when figuring out that the person they were having an online fling with was actually standing right in front of them! … but it fell a bit flat. I liked the characters and could even have enjoyed a relationship between them, but I felt like the story drug on a bit and too much emphasis went into the family instead of into the relationship building. Still a good read, it just didn’t blow me away.

Dinah Gallagher has spent her life working towards taking over her family business. It’s her heart and soul and she breathes Gallagher’s Tap Room, so when she needs to get the adjoining land out from under the guy living there in order to get one up on her Uncle and get her rightful job, that’s what she’s going to do!

Urban farmer Carter Trask has lost a lot in his life and he’s finally happy with his little nook in the world, happily growing his produce and surviving on the land left over from his grandmother. The neighbor has been trying to buy the land, but he has no interest … no matter how much they want it. When Dinah comes over and tries to sweeten the deal, he again has no interest … until she puts two and two together and let’s him know that she’s the secret “D” that he “C” has been emailing and heating up the keyboard with for months now!

When their online fling turns real, will these battling neighbors be able to call or truce?

three-half-stars

* Blog Tour / Release Blitz * CRAZY FOR YOU by Rachel Lacey

Title: CRAZY FOR YOU
Author: Rachel Lacey
Series: Risking It All, #2

 

On Sale: March 28, 2017
Publisher: Forever
Mass Market: $7.99 USD
eBook: $6.99 USD

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The second book in Rachel Lacey’s irresistible contemporary romance series about three foster brothers who return to their hometown to open an extreme sports business, perfect for fans of Kristan Higgins, Rachel Gibson, and Jill Shalvis!

 

SHE’S TAKING A WALK ON HIS WILD SIDE

Emma Rush can’t remember a time when she didn’t have a thing for Ryan Blake. Haven’s resident bad boy is just so freakin’ hot-with tattoos, a motorcycle, and enough rough-around-the-edges sexiness to melt all her self-control. Now that Emma’s over being a “good girl,” she needs a little help being naughty . . . and she knows just where to start.

Before Emma’s brother enlisted in the military, he made Ryan promise that he would protect her from everything–including himself. When her brother doesn’t come home, Ryan needs to turn his screwed-up life around to honor his pledge. But he knows he’s still not the right kind of guy for someone as sweet as Emma. Only he can’t stop wanting to be with her. Wanting her. Falling in love with a good girl may be the craziest risk this bad boy can take . . .

 

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EXCERPT:

Ryan Blake held a bottle of Maker’s 46 in his right hand, a tumbler in his left. With a flick of his wrist, he tossed the bottle. It flipped once before landing back in his grip, top down, ready to pour. He filled the tumbler, set a napkin on

the bar, and placed it in front of the brunette on the other side. “Bourbon, neat.”

“You’re good.” She picked up the glass and tipped it in his direction. “Not what I was expecting in this little bar in the middle of nowhere.”

“I try,” he said with the friendly, semi-flirtatious smile he always used on single ladies seated at his bar. She wasn’t wrong. The usual clientele at The Drunken Bear had little use for fancy liquor or bartending tricks, but the trio in front of him were tourists looking for a good time, and he’d see that they had one.

“You were just about to tell me about this tattoo.” She placed her hand on his biceps, fingering the eagle he’d had inked there after he flew this coop ten years ago.

“That’s right.” He shifted backward so that her hand slipped to the countertop. He encouraged flirting—it led to better tips and made the night more interesting—but this chick was getting a bit too friendly, considering the diamond band on her left ring finger. “This one was for spreading my wings. Thought I’d fly far away, and yet, here I am back in Haven.”

“You’re from here then?” one of the other women asked, shamelessly ogling the tattoos on his arms while giving him an eyeful of cleavage.

“Born and raised. Moved around a lot, but I can’t seem to shake this place. It’s in my blood.” Once upon a time, he’d been hell bent on getting as far away from this sleepy North Carolina mountain town as possible. Spent the better part of a decade drifting from place to place, taking with him only what he could carry on his bike. Funny how things came full circle. He picked up an empty pilsner glass another patron had left behind.

“Ryan?”

He turned at the familiar voice to find Emma Rush stand- ing there, one hip propped against the bar, and he damn near dropped the glass. Emma’s trademark ponytail and jog- ging pants were nowhere in sight. Tonight, her blond hair cascaded over her shoulders in shiny waves, her blue eyes sparkled at him from behind a tasteful—yet sexy—amount of makeup, and her red top was tucked into a pair of jeans that fit her like a glove. He swallowed past the sudden dry- ness in his throat. “Hey, Em. What brings you out tonight?” “Girls’ night,” she said with a smile, gesturing to her friend Mandy, who stood by the door talking on her cell phone. Emma slid onto an empty barstool. “I wasn’t expect-

ing to see you.”

“I’m still here a few nights a week.” His new business

venture—Off-the-Grid Adventures, an extreme outdoor sporting facility he’d opened with his good buddies Ethan Hunter and Mark Dalton six months ago—was finally bring- ing in enough income that he soon wouldn’t need to bartend to pay his rent. “What can I get you?”

“Untapped amber ale, please.” She watched while he filled a frosted mug. “Thanks.”

“My pleasure.”

She lifted the mug to her lips and took a long drink. “Damn, that’s good,” she said with a happy sigh, setting it on the bar.

“Always been more of a pilsner guy myself.” He tried not to stare as she licked froth from her upper lip.

“Hi, Ryan.” Mandy stepped up to the bar beside Emma. He leaned back, tearing his gaze from Emma’s lips. “Hi.”

Emma turned to her friend with a smile. “Ready to get a table?”

“Yep,” Mandy said. “Have fun, ladies.”

“We will.” With a wave, Emma walked off after her friend, and damn, those jeans cupped her ass like perfection. No doubt about it, Emma looked hot tonight. And his thoughts were way out of line. He’d promised Derek he’d look out for his little sister, not drool all over her.

“Your girlfriend?” the brunette at the bar asked, eyebrows raised as she sipped her bourbon.

Ryan cleared his throat and dragged his eyes away from Emma. “Just a friend.”

“Mm-hmm.” The brunette gave him a look that said she didn’t believe him.

He turned to check on his patrons at the other end of the bar, but his attention was once again diverted by Emma— or rather, the preppy-looking businessman she was talking to now. Ryan couldn’t make out their conversation, but the guy wore an irritatingly smug smile, and Emma didn’t look at all happy to have bumped into him.

Ryan moved down the bar, chatting and pouring drinks as he went, all the while keeping an eye on Emma. She was deep in conversation with the businessman, although the guy seemed to be doing most of the talking. Emma smiled and nodded. She glanced up and met Ryan’s gaze, rolling her eyes at him with a smile while her companion kept on talk- ing.

Next thing Ryan knew, the guy had slung an arm around her shoulders, gesturing wildly with his free hand while Emma subtly edged away from him.

Ryan was around the bar and across the room before he’d even realized what he was doing. “Everything okay over here?”

Emma shrugged out from under the guy’s arm, but her smile wasn’t nearly as warm or genuine as the one she’d given Ryan a few moments ago. “Yep.”

“We’re fine,” Obnoxious Dude answered. “Who are you?”

“Ryan Blake. And you are?” “Tristan Farrell.”

“Tristan and I are . . . old friends,” Emma said.

By old friends, Ryan assumed she meant former flames. And since she clearly wasn’t enjoying his company, it was time for Tristan to leave. Ryan crossed his arms over his chest and stared him down, waiting for the loser to get the message. It didn’t take long.

Tristan backed up, his eyes darting toward the front door. “Well, it was great seeing you, Emma. Take care.”

“You, too.” She watched as Tristan left the bar then turned to Ryan. “Forgot how much I dislike that guy.”

“He hassling you?”

Her eyes rounded. “No! Just talking my ear off, really.

Sorry to distract you from your duties at the bar.”

“No problem.” Keeping an eye on his patrons was part of the job, although he was probably feeling more protective of Emma right now than the situation called for.

“Right, well . . . looks like my table is ready.” She waved over her shoulder as she walked away.

Ryan headed back behind the bar, turning his attention to the trio of tourists and their mostly empty cocktails. “Any of you ladies ready for a fresh drink?”

As it turned out, they all were. While he mixed their cock- tails, he allowed his gaze to roam over to Emma’s table. She was deep in conversation with her friends Gabby, Carly, and Mandy, all of whom he knew, none of whom made his gut tighten the way it did every time he looked at Emma tonight.

He had no idea where this had come from, but he had to get over it, pronto. Emma wasn’t interested in a player like him, and even if she were, she was off limits. He’d made a promise to her brother when Derek went off to war, and Ryan had no intention of breaking it.

 

THE RISKING IT ALL SERIES

ROCK WITH YOU, #.5
RUN TO YOU, #1
CRAZY FOR YOU, #2
CAN’T FORGET YOU, #3

Series Page on Goodreads

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Rachel Lacey is a contemporary romance author and semi-reformed travel junkie. She’s been climbed by a monkey on a mountain in Japan, gone scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, and camped out overnight in New York City for a chance to be an extra in a movie. These days, the majority of her adventures take place on the pages of the books she writes. She lives in warm and sunny North Carolina with her husband, son, and a variety of rescue pets.

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* Blog Tour / Book Review * PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM by Catherine Lanigan

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

* Blog Tour / Book Review * PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM by Catherine LaniganProtecting the Single Mom by Catherine Lanigan
Series: Shores of Indian Lake
Published by Harlequin Heartwarming on April 1, 2017
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four-stars

Getting involved shouldn't be this dangerous…

Cate Sullivan is no damsel in distress. She's kept herself and her son safe for six long years. Built a good life in Indian Lake. But now that her drug-dealing ex-husband is moving his operation here, that life is about to explode.

Her instincts tell her to trust Detective Trent Davis. That he's more than just a handsome cop doing his duty. The former Green Beret has even formed a fast bond with her son. But there's something he's not telling her. Some darkness that keeps him from giving in to the feelings she knows are growing between them. Cate trusts Trent to keep her safe, but the real question is whether he'll trust himself with her heart.


When danger rears it’s ugly head, a mother will do anything to protect! We are quickly drawn in to the story of a woman on the run who thought she could finally relax and enjoy life again … only to have her maniac of an ex show back up to terrorize her. A cast of great characters, many of whom we’ve gotten to know in past books in the series, makes a solid story.

Detective Trent Davis has been working hard to shut down the drug infiltration that has been happening in his small town of Indian Lake. They almost catch their guy, but he slips away at the last minute. Imagine Trent’s surprise when he finds out that the guy has a connection to one of his very own residents … one who has been keeping secrets!

Cate Sullivan fled her old life more than 6 years ago and settled in at Indian Lake to raise her son. They’ve been enjoying a good life with close friends and neighbors in a genuinely good town … and now her drug-dealing ex-husband has found them. She will do anything to keep her son safe … but can she bring herself to trust someone else with the job of protecting him? Trent seems like a good guy, and she can’t deny there’s something special about him when their eyes meet … but he almost seems haunted. What could he possibly be hiding? Can she trust her heart to what-if’s?

 

 

 

Protecting the Single Mom
(Shores of Indian Lake #7)
Catherine Lanigan

Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
April 1st 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming


Getting involved shouldn’t be this dangerous…

Cate Sullivan is no damsel in distress. She’s kept herself and her son safe for six long years. Built a good life in Indian Lake. But now that her drug-dealing ex-husband is moving his operation here, that life is about to explode.

Her instincts tell her to trust Detective Trent Davis. That he’s more than just a handsome cop doing his duty. The former Green Beret has even formed a fast bond with her son. But there’s something he’s not telling her. Some darkness that keeps him from giving in to the feelings she knows are growing between them. Cate trusts Trent to keep her safe, but the real question is whether he’ll trust himself with her heart.

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Advanced Review for Protecting the Single Mom

This is an exceptional romantic fiction novel that inspires women to achieve their dreams and warms the hearts of the romantics. It is a beautifully well-written story with a clean context. It is suitable for anybody who loves a good romance and yearns to be inspired to make a change in their circumstances. – Susan Sewell for Readers’ Favorite

 

Other Books in the Series


 

About the Author

Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of forty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, and more. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into dozens of languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available in E-books on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com, Apple Store, Mobi and Kobo. Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her Vietnam war-based novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference.

Lanigan is the author of a trilogy of non- fiction books regarding angelic intervention in human life: Angel Watch, Divine Nudges and Angel Tales published by HCI and Cedar Fort. Skyhorse published Lanigan’s “how-to” book on writing: Writing the Great American Romance Novel. Lanigan was tasked by the NotMYkid Foundation to write a non-fiction book addressing teen addictions. Ms. Lanigan’s first Young Adult adventure novel, The Adventures of Lillie and Zane: The Golden Flute, was published by Cedar Fort.

Currently, she has published seven novels in the Shores of Indian Lake series for Harlequin Heartwarming: Love ShadowsHeart’s DesireA Fine Year for LoveKatia’s Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie’s Path. Protecting the Single Mom pubs April, 2016. She has recently contracted for two more in the series: Wedding for Isabelle and A Bride for Mica.

As a cancer survivor, Ms. Lanigan is a frequent speaker at literary functions and book conventions as well as inspiring audiences with her real stories of angelic intervention from her Angel Tales series of books. She is an outspoken advocate for domestic violence and abuse and was honored by The National Domestic Violence Hotline in Washington, D.C. (THE EVOLVING WOMAN). She has been a guest on numerous radio programs including “Coast to Coast” and on television interview and talk show programs as well as blogs, podcasts and online radio interview programs.

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Tour Schedule


March 26th: Launch

March 27th: Thoughts of a Blonde & Katie’s Clean Book Collection

March 28th: Rockin’ Book Reviews & Book Lover in Florida

March 29th: Rainy Day Reviews & Zerina Blossom’s Books

March 30th: Hearts & Scribbles & Harlie’s Books

April 2nd: Hardcover Feedback & Reading Is My SuperPower

April 3rd: Mel’s Shelves & Kati’s Bookaholic Rambling Reviews

April 4th: underneath the covers & Wishful Endings

April 5th: The Silver Dagger ScriptoriumHeidi Reads… & Singing Librarian Books

April 6th: Nicole’s Book Musings & Becky on Books

April 7th: Grand Finale

 

Tour Giveaway

 

 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)

 1 winner will receive a tote bag and three Shores of Indian Lake books: Katia’s Promise, Fear of Falling and Sophie’s Path (US only)

– Ends April 11th

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four-stars

* Blog Tour / Release Blitz * MEANT FOR YOU by Michelle Major

 

Will a ploy to impress old high school classmates turn into a second chance at love for Jenny and Owen? Find out in MEANT FOR YOU by Michelle Major.

 

Synopsis:

Single mom Jenny Castelli has a temper to match her red hair. When the former mean girls of her high school insult her son, Jenny fires off a big lie—that she’s engaged to a rich, handsome guy and is bringing him to their ten-year reunion. Now she needs to find the perfect fake fiancé for one night. And only one man fits the bill.

Geek turned tech entrepreneur Owen Dalton already had his heart broken by Jenny Castelli. Still, he finds himself agreeing to her proposition—even as he struggles to remember that the chemistry sparking between them isn’t real. But when Jenny’s ex makes a play for custody and Owen is forced to deal with the family who always treated him as “second best,” their arrangement suddenly becomes very personal. And that lie they’ve been telling everyone? It isn’t nearly as big as the one they’ve been telling themselves.

Pre-order at:  Amazon

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About Michelle Major:

Michelle Major grew up in Ohio but dreamed of living in the mountains. More than twenty years ago, she pointed her car west and settled in Colorado. Today her home includes her husband, their two children, several furry pets, and a couple of well-behaved reptiles. She’s grateful to have found her passion for writing stories with happy endings

Connect with Michelle: Newsletter | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon

 

 

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