Wednesday, September 30, 2020

Snowball's Christmas by Kristen McKanagh ~ Excerpt & Giveaway

 

Snowball’s Christmas
Kristen McKanagh
Published by: Kensington
Publication date: September 29th 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

The Purrfect holiday awaits…

Snowball–an aptly named bundle of feline fluff–is thankful to be spending her first Christmas in the comfort of Weber Haus, the Victorian B&B run by Miss Tilly. Emily Diemer, who cooks for the guests, dotes on Snowball, but she’s not thrilled about another new arrival at the B&B: Miss Tilly’s nephew, Lukas. Which is odd, because Snowball’s animal instincts tell her that Lukas and Emily should definitely be friends.

Everything Emily needs is in this quaint community–including, she hopes, the chance to open her own bakery one day. She doesn’t think much of Lukas for leaving his aging aunt to struggle while he jets around the world taking photographs. But now that he’s here, helping to spruce up the property and getting mixed up in Snowball’s antics, she begins to soften a little. Until she learns what he has planned…

Lukas is going to sell Weber Haus so that Miss Tilly can retire. But Snowball is certain that this B&B, and these people, are supposed to be her forever home. Somehow she has to get these stubborn humans to see things through the wisdom of a cat’s eye and a kitten’s loyal, loving heart…

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo / Google Play

EXCERPT:

At her car, her good mood took a back seat to frustration. The fob on her key chain was dying, which meant it didn’t always let her in right away. After four or five clicks, she finally gave a grr of annoyance and opened the door with the key.

“Wait.”

No mistaking the deep voice of the man from the parking lot. No way could he be talking to her, though, so she went to get in.

“Emily.”

He is talking to me.

Surprise tinged with more delight than she’d let herself acknowledge had her pausing to look over her shoulder. “How did you know my name?” she called as he jogged down the last few steps.

He waved back up at the slope. “That man called your name earlier.”

And he’d paid attention? Wow. A blush warmed the skin of her cheeks, making the sting of the cold air against her bite more. “Listen, I’m flattered and everything, but I’m running late.”

He paused on a word, mouth open, then his eyes crinkled as he grinned. “I’m not asking you out.”

Oh. Disappointment dropped over her like snow falling off branches on her head. Kerfloop. Followed swiftly by embarrassment. The heat crept back up her cheeks, but for a much less fun reason. “Okay . . . What can I help you with?”

“Actually, I’m here to help you.”

Help her? With what? She raised her eyebrows in question.

“I believe you’ve picked up a small passenger in your purse.”

“My—” Realization rushed in with all the subtlety of a blizzard, and she closed her eyes in resigned horror. “There’s a kitten in my purse. Isn’t there?”

She opened her eyes in time to catch the full impact of her stranger’s full-bodied laugh, his eyes alight with humor. “Does this happen to you often?” he asked.

“Only since this one arrived on our doorstep.” More gently than she’d been handling it until now, she swung her purse around and opened it wide. Sure enough, two blue eyes stared back at her with all the innocence of angels.

“Snowball. You’ve got to stop this,” she admonished as she lifted the small kitten out. Cuddling the ball of fluff against her chest, she lifted her gaze to her helpful stranger. Right in time to see him with a camera up to his eye. A soft click sounded as he snapped a picture.

“Uh— No, thanks.” She lifted a hand to block any more.

“I’m only getting the cat in the shot. I promise.”

Zero for two. First, he wasn’t chasing her down because he was interested, and now he only wanted pictures of the cat. My ego is going to need some chocolate therapy if this keeps up.

Author Bio:

Sweet contemporary and Amish romance author Kristen McKanagh grew up consuming books and exploring the world through her writing. She attempted to find a practical career by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing) and an MBA. However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it. Kristen also writes award-winning steamy contemporary romance as Kadie Scott, and award-winning paranormal and YA fantasy romance as Abigail Owen. No matter the genre, she loves to write happily-ever-afters that shine with home, heart, and humor. Kristen currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own swoon-worthy hero husband and their two children, who are growing up way too fast.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Newsletter / Bookbub


GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is not a Stuck In Books giveaway.  Stuck In Books is not responsible for selecting the winner or delivering the prize.


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Waiting On Wednesday ~ 9/30/20


This is our version of Waiting on Wednesday but with more cuddles, books we can't wait to cuddle for various reasons.

What are we waiting on this week?  THIS!


There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I’m coming for you…

Reborn to serve, I have never once questioned Death’s directives. Until my mission leads me to a Halfling who stirs things within me that I’ve never felt before. Sorcha’s past intrigues me, but not as much as the gorgeous and stubborn Halfling herself. Though the Others are no more, our enemies still lurk around every corner. I can feel it. But for her, I will battle whatever comes my way—be it present dangers or ghosts of the past. 


Available November 16th 

Why am I waiting?  I have really enjoyed this world through 3 different series'.  I have such hope for one particular reaper.  It may be too soon for his book but a girl can hope.  Have you read this series or one of the spin offs?

What about you?  Have a book your waiting for?  Leave us a comment.










Tuesday, September 29, 2020

Stuck In Books Featured Releases & Giveaway

 


From Simon Schuster Books for Young Readers...



Perfect for fans of Dragons Love Tacos and Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great, this wildly funny and imaginative picture book celebrates the value of differences as a grumpy goblin gets to know his new unicorn neighbors.

It’s an undeniable fact that unicorns are the worst!

Magic is serious business, but all unicorns do is frolic around, have tea parties, and leave glitter all over the place! They’re nothing like goblins—practical and hard-working, who can put magic to good use! Unicorns aren’t helpful at all.

Or are they?




This is such a cute story.  I read it to my grandsons and they were both watching the pictures with complete attention.  It's a story about an elf who's not a fan of the unicorn neighbors.  All that glitter.  What good were they?  Until the dragon shows up and the elf discovers that the pointy horn on a unicorn is perfect for getting rid of the dragon.  The unicorns turn into the best neighbors ever.  It's a sweet story and my grandsons loved it.


From Avon books...


Desire knows no reason...
When Lady Delilah Chambers finds herself stranded at a country inn on a rain-swept evening, she’s forced to fend off a group of ruffians with the help of a handsome gentleman. Irresistibly drawn to each other, Leela and the stranger spend one reckless night in each others’ arms—and then go their separate ways. But the very next day Leela receives the shock of her life when she meets the duke who is set on wedding her beloved stepdaughter.

When it finds two destined hearts...

One night isn’t enough with a woman as fierce, fiery, and brilliant as Leela. Elliot Townsend, Duke of Huntington, cannot believe his good fortune when their chance encounter leads to an unforgettable evening of passion. Yet Hunt’s luck runs out when he is introduced to his prospective mother-in-law. Dowagers aren’t supposed to look like this...

Leela and Hunt are determined to keep each other at arm’s length, which should be easy enough for two intelligent adults with reputations to uphold. The problem is all logic is lost when it comes to a passion that refuses to be ignored.




For almost a century, Ildaria Garcia has been on the run, a trouble magnet with a knack for taking down bad guys. Lately, her vigilante tendencies have drawn unwelcome attention to her fellow Immortals. Forced to relocate, Ildaria is supposed to lay low in a new town. Instead, she quickly entangles herself with six and a half feet of muscular, tattooed trouble.

Joshua James Simpson Guiscard, aka G.G., knows a lot about Immortals—enough to make him wary. Yet from the moment Ildaria walks into his club, he feels desire stronger than anything he’s known. Accepting the fact that they might be life mates is disconcerting. But when her past catches up to them, G.G. faces a choice—confront his demons at last, or lose a passion that’s hot as hell.


From Sourcebook Casablanca...



Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...

Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...


As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.

Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.

Spend every Christmas with an unforgettable shifter hero


INT as long as you can accept an Amazon Gift Card



a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Duplicate Bride by Ginny Baird ~ Now Available & Excerpt

 

Today we have the release day blitz for Ginny Baird’s THE DUPLICATE BRIDE! Check it out and be sure to order yours today!

Title: The Duplicate Bride

Author: Ginny Baird

Genre: Contemporary Romance

About The Duplicate Bride:

Saying “I do” has never been this much fun in this charming new romance from New York Times bestselling author Ginny Baird.   Hope Webb can’t believe her twin sister, Jackie, is begging her to swap places and play fiancée at Jackie’s pre-wedding festivities. Sure, it’s only a business-deal sort of marriage, but Hope is a carb-loving teacher who enjoys curling up with a good book. Jackie is a workaholic whose idea of a good time is a brisk five-mile run at the crack of dawn. The two sisters couldn’t be more opposite.   Now Hope is stuck in the middle of a warm, tight-knit family she can’t help but adore and a groom who turns out to be entirely wonderful...for her.   Hotel magnate Brent Albright knows something is off about his fiancée, but he doesn’t care. Gone is the driven woman with similar career goals, and in her place is someone warm and funny who not only charms his family but him as well. She’s doing everything she can to avoid him, but that’s probably just nerves. Two people about to wed couldn’t know each other less.   Now Brent is determined to woo his fiancée, for real this time, because the more he gets to know her, the more his sweet fiancée turns out to be entirely wonderful...for him.   And that’s when things start to get really complicated...    

Order Your Copy Today:

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

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

Elsa gave a short laugh, trying to downplay the situation. “Believe it or not, Margaret here thought you’d prioritize that wedding over this one.” She rolled her eyes like the idea was absurd, and Hope wanted to melt through the floor.

Jackie needed to show up and fix this.

“Now we know that’s not true, hmm?” Elsa grinned at Hope. “Here you are!”

There she is.” A dark-haired guy in a black polo shirt and khakis ambled down the drive.

Hope nearly swallowed her tongue. Brent Albright was gorgeous as a teen, but as a man? She couldn’t breathe. In addition to the rugged-yet-refined-man thing he now had going, he walked with an easy stride that implied he was in command of his completely flawless body.

His smile, though...that’s what stole her breath away.

“Hello, sweetheart,” he said, gently nudging past Grandmother Margaret.

Hope’s breath hitched when she saw his unbelievably hot mouth dropping down toward hers. Wait. Was he going to kiss her?

“Brent!” she gasped, abruptly turning away. She could not kiss her sister’s fiancé.

No matter how exciting that had momentarily seemed.

He stumbled forward, his lips landing awkwardly on her cheek while his hands grasped her shoulders. Hope’s world turned upside down, and her heart thundered as the pressure of his kiss lingered, his scent washing over her. He smelled like sand and sea and pine...and she had to resist wrapping her arms around his neck and yanking him into the car. She broke into a sweat. This is not happening. I am not attracted to Jackie’s future husband! This was so incredibly twisted.

Not as twisted as Brent thinking she was Jackie, though. Shouldn’t he have some gut-level instinct about the woman he loved and was about to marry? “Sorry about the display.” His whisper tickled her ear, and tingles raced down her spine.

Not good. Not good at all.

He shot a glance over his shoulder, meant for only her, and Hope got his meaning. They were playing the loving couple for his grandmother’s benefit. But why was it an act anyway?

She had to tell them she wasn’t Jackie now. Now, before it was too late. Her sister must not have gotten in touch with Brent, but Hope could explain things.

“In truth, I’m...er, not...” She tried to speak, but she got caught up in Brent’s heady stare. He had very dark eyes, maybe the darkest she’d ever seen. And, ooh, how they sparkled in the sunshine. “What I mean is...”

Desperate to regain her footing, she wrenched herself free of Brent’s gaze and turned to Elsa, who sat beside her in the passenger seat.

Brent’s mom’s immediate acceptance of her—no, Jackie—made her heart pound harder.

Elsa was trying so hard to be warm and welcoming, despite that fact that Hope had nearly flattened her in the driveway like a blueberry pancake.

Hope was at a total loss over what to do.

She’d told Jackie that this was impossible.

That she would no way in a million years impersonate her.

It was unethical and wrong.

And yet, she’d been helplessly cornered and suddenly had nowhere to turn...

About Ginny Baird:

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

Connect Ginny Baird:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Amazon

Teaser Tuesday ~ 9/29/20


This is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading.



To participate you:
* Grab your current read
* BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS!
(Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
* Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!






From Sourcebook Casablanca...



Meet the shifters of the Red Wolf pack...

Close quarters make for a cozy Christmas...


As Christmas approaches, red wolf shifter Brooke Cerise unexpectedly inherits an antique shop in Portland, Oregon. But when a missing reindeer calf turns up on her property, she becomes embroiled in a kidnapping case and the primary suspect of far-too-intriguing shifter Detective Josh Wilding.

Josh doesn't intend to fall for the mysterious new woman in town, but Brooke gets under his skin from the moment they meet, and he can't help his instinct to protect her. These red wolves are both on the hunt for love, but there's a mystery to solve before they can enjoy their holiday happy-ever-after.

Spend every Christmas with an unforgettable shifter hero


Now Available from Sourcebook Casablanca


Teaser...


"You know, when you're like this, it's because you're interested in the woman but you don't want to show that you are.  How many years are going to go by before you give another she-wolf a chance?"  (Kindle location 493)

Hehe.  Doesn't look like Josh stands a chance.  

Have you read this author?


That's our teaser this week.  What about you?  Have a teaser?  Leave us a comment.




Monday, September 28, 2020

Angelbound Quasi Redux by Christina Bauer ~ Excerpt & Giveaway

 

Quasi Redux
Christina Bauer
(Angelbound Origins, #8)
Published by: Monster House Books
Publication date: September 29th 2020
Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Young Adult

“Myla is a magnificent heroine, fierce and outspoken, hilarious and mischievous … And did I mention that her demon tail is sentient? Best. Sidekick. Ever.” – The Nocturnal Library

Myla Lewis has her life back. Wife. Mother. Queen. Great Scala. Queen of the Thrax. Yay! Then one day, Myla runs across a supernatural waterfall that makes her igni screech like crazy. Our heroine speaks the fateful words, “Some days, I wish I weren’t the Great Scala.”

The waterfall grants her wish.

A moment later, Myla is back at Purgatory High. No husband. No child. No powers beyond her old quasi days. And without Myla around as the Great Scala, all quasis now live under Armageddon’s rule. That sucks. Hard. So Myla sneaks into Antrum—she simply must find Lincoln and figure this out. Once she arrives, two problems arise.

First, her husband doesn’t know her. At all.

Second, Lincoln is married to someone else.

Fuuuuuuu…

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo


Excerpt

QUASI REDUX Selection - Junk Punch

  

I step past the trio of thrax guards writhing on the ground.

Meh. They’ll live. Plus, it serves them right for trying to tackle me.

My best friend, Cissy, stares at the same scene. “This isn’t right,” she snaps. “Before you said and I quote, when we break into Antrum, there will be no fighting.”

“True, but that wasn’t a real battle. I just tripped those guards by mistake.”

Cissy rolls her eyes. “Myla, you punched that guy in the nuts.”

I give an eye roll right back. “Same difference. He’s down, isn’t he?”

Cissy shoots another nervous look at the guards, who remain passed out on the ground. Except for the junk-punch guy. He’s awake, just not moving yet.

Cissy narrows her eyes. “And why are we here again?”

“Because at this time of day, Lincoln will be training the young lords. I can catch up with him, easy peasy.”

Cissy nibbles her thumbnail. “And he’s your husband.”

“In another reality, yeah.”

“But he won’t know you here.”

“No.” My tail arcs over my shoulder. The arrowhead end points right at my face. I’ve seen this move before. “I know, bud. Cis is acting strangely.” I refocus on my friend. “I feel like we’ve covered all this before. Why do you keep asking the same questions?”

Cissy shifts her weight from foot to foot. “Just give me the plan one more time.”

“I’ll talk to my guy and all our troubles will end.” Cissy still looks skeptical, so I continue. “Lincoln is a rock. I haven’t changed; he hasn’t changed. Sure, there’s probably some spell on his memories and—just like you—he won’t know me right away.”

“I don’t remember you at all.”

“Doesn’t matter. Once I explain things, Lincoln will believe me. Then together, we’ll fix this mess.”

“So you say.” Cissy throws up her hands. “How can I be sure?”

“Here’s the deal. When it comes to me, you always have a healthy dose of skepticism, but I bulldoze you into things anyway. Come on, let’s go before the guards get mobile.”

And as I suspected, that speech works perfectly. Without another word, Cissy follows me as I step off to find Lincoln.


Author Bio:

Christina Bauer knows how to tell stories about kick-ass women. In her best selling Angelbound series, the heroine is a part-demon girl who loves to fight in Purgatory’s Arena and falls in love with a part-angel prince. This young adult best seller has driven more than 500,000 ebook downloads and 9,000 reviews on Goodreads and retailers. The first three books in the series are now available as audiobooks on Audible and iTunes.
Bauer has also told the story of the Women’s March on Washington by leading PR efforts for the Massachusetts Chapter. Her pre-event press release—the only one sent out on a major wire service—resulted in more than 19,000 global impressions and redistribution by over 350 different media entities including the Associated Press.

Christina graduated from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School with BA’s in English along with Television, Radio, and Film Production. She lives in Newton, MA with her husband, son, and semi-insane golden retriever, Ruby.

Blog / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / LinkedIn / Website


GIVEAWAY!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

This is not a Stuck In Books giveaway.  Stuck In Books is not responsible for selecting the winner or delivering the prize.


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Sunday, September 27, 2020

Stacking Our Shelves ~ 9/27/20


Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.  Make sure to checkout her post with links to all the other participates.

Click covers for Goodreads links



For review...




Thanks goes to...

MIRA (Harlequin Books)
Sourcebooks Casablanca 
Berkley


That's what's new on our shelves this week.  What about you?  Leave us a comment.









Saturday, September 26, 2020

Let's Chat... 10 Books I Want to Read by the End of 2020


Here I am again with a new post series idea that I'll do...whenever I get the urge. This one isn't anything super special--basically just a discussion post with whatever topic strikes my fancy. And I made a mediocre graphic to go with it because of course. 

It hit me this week that we are...kind of getting close to the end of the year. Which is exciting to me because I love the end of the year (winter! Christmas!) but also wild to me because this year has been such a blur. And I started to think about books I've read...and books I want to pick up.

You see where I'm going with this?

I'm not the first one to ever make a post like this--I'm certain people do these posts every year (heck I've likely done at least one like this before), but I digress. In no particular order, here's 10 books I want to read by the end of 2020...

*click on covers for Goodreads links*

Branded by Fire by Nalini Singh



I've been meaning to continue this series for the longest time. The first few books were FANTASTIC, so there's really no reason for me to not love this one too. I just have to, you know, pick it up and read it.


A Song of Wraiths & Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown



I LOVE the premise of this book. The only reason I haven't read it yet is because it's fantasy and I need to be in just the right mood to get into it. Ideally with fall and winter right around the corner, the cozy seasons will put me in a fantasy mood...because I really want to pick this one up and love it!


My Big Fat Fake Engagement by Lauren Landish



This one looks fun and fluffy, which is right up my alley right now. Then again, the fake relationship trope is always up my alley. I read the sample recently and I'm definitely interested. I'll probably pick this one up sooner rather than later!


The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw



Another thing I'm always here for: witches. And we're on our way into the witchy season, yes? I'm aiming to get to this one in October...fingers crossed!


House of Earth and Blood by Sarah J. Maas



I kind of need to read this sooner than later because my friend Steph has been telling me I need to read it for months now. This one has fallen into the same category as ASOWAR though--it's fantasy (and freaking huge) and I need to be in the right mood for it. Cozy fantasy reading weather will hopefully help...


The Raven King by Maggie Stiefvater



Ah, like Branded by Fire this is another book that always ends up on my list of books I need to read. I don't know what my hang up is with this one. The Raven Cycle is one of my favorite series ever. It's a series ender, but there's still more to come with the Dreamer series. I think I just need to sit down with this book one day and binge it. I'm going to love it, there's no doubt about that.


These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong



I just got this book in the mail this week and I! Am! So! Excited! Y'all. It's a retelling of Romeo & Juliet set in 1920s Shanghai with a blood feud between rival gangs! Sounds violent and delightful and I cannot wait to pick it up.


We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal



I own two copies of this book and still have somehow not read it yet? I think it's because I know I'll get so invested and have many feelings but then have to wait for the sequel. So I suppose it's good I'll be reading sometime between now and the end of the year because book 2, We Free the Stars (gaaah I love that title) releases in January!


The Corsair's Captive by Ruby Dixon



I've got to be realistic--of course there's Ruby Dixon on this list. I'd be a liar otherwise. For the past year-ish I've been working my way through her backlist. And her frontlist. Just...all of her books, really. She writes some top notch romance and it's been a great comfort to me. I'll likely pick this one up soon.


The Boyfriend Project by Farrah Rochon



I've seen so many glowing reviews for this book, and I'm excited to fall in love with it myself. Goodness knows I love a good romance, and this one sounds glorious!


That's what I hope to read by the end of this year (..well, some of it anyway, hah). Now let's chat! What do you think of my list? What do you hope to read??

Friday, September 25, 2020

The Duplicate Bride by Ginny Baird ~ Excerpt

 

Today we have the excerpt tour for Ginny Baird’s THE DUPLICATE BRIDE! Check it out and be sure to pre-order yours today!

Title: The Duplicate Bride

Author: Ginny Baird

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: September 29th

About The Duplicate Bride:

Saying “I do” has never been this much fun in this charming new romance from New York Times bestselling author Ginny Baird.   Hope Webb can’t believe her twin sister, Jackie, is begging her to swap places and play fiancée at Jackie’s pre-wedding festivities. Sure, it’s only a business-deal sort of marriage, but Hope is a carb-loving teacher who enjoys curling up with a good book. Jackie is a workaholic whose idea of a good time is a brisk five-mile run at the crack of dawn. The two sisters couldn’t be more opposite.   Now Hope is stuck in the middle of a warm, tight-knit family she can’t help but adore and a groom who turns out to be entirely wonderful...for her.   Hotel magnate Brent Albright knows something is off about his fiancée, but he doesn’t care. Gone is the driven woman with similar career goals, and in her place is someone warm and funny who not only charms his family but him as well. She’s doing everything she can to avoid him, but that’s probably just nerves. Two people about to wed couldn’t know each other less.   Now Brent is determined to woo his fiancée, for real this time, because the more he gets to know her, the more his sweet fiancée turns out to be entirely wonderful...for him.   And that’s when things start to get really complicated...    

Pre-Order Your Copy Today:

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

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

“No, Jackie, just no. You can forget about it!” She lowered her voice, remembering she was outdoors and that Iris was within earshot. “I am not playing you. Okay? Not during your own wedding week.” Iris looked up from trimming her begonia hedge. “Everything all right, child?” “Oh, yeah! Fine! It’s just my sister. Nervous bride.” She waved Iris’s concern aside and hissed quietly into the mouthpiece, “Are you out of your ever-lovin’ mind?” “No. I’m thinking plenty clearly. Thanks.” Hope tightened her grip on her phone, unable to believe what her twenty-eight-year-old twin was suggesting. Jackie had to have majorly lost it to suggest a plan like that. Hope had to find a way to talk her down from this ledge. “I’m sure if you explain things to Brent,” she said, “he’ll understand.” “It’s not Brent I’m worried about,” Jackie rasped quietly. “It’s his grandmother.” She dropped her voice a notch further. She was probably in a public place. “I didn’t tell you this before because it’s embarrassing, but I don’t think the woman likes me.” “You’ve met her?” Jackie hadn’t mentioned this. “When?” “She and her husband live in Boston. Brent and I had lunch with them, and well...she gave me the eye.” “Which eye?” The eye. You know, where it looks like someone’s peering straight through you? She kind of squinted at me, appraising-like, and asked how long I’d been in love with her grandson.” Hope gasped. “What did you say?” Forever. What else could I say? Brent took my hand and told his grandparents we’re a great match. I mean, we’ve talked it out and have plenty of good reasons for being together, so we are. His grandfather toasted us with his congratulations then, but Granny just dabbed her lips with her napkin and mumbled something about rushed nuptials and haste making waste.” “Well, that was unnecessary,” Hope snapped, affronted on her sister’s behalf. Even if the engagement had been short, Brent’s grandmother could have at least been gracious about it. “I know. The family’s already doubting me, and nobody’s giving me a fair chance. Here’s the thing— Brent’s grandma is like the queen in that family. So, if she doesn’t like me, then maybe the others won’t, either.” “I’m sure they’ll all love you once they get to know you,” Hope said. Jackie was so outgoing and fun. Meanwhile, Hope was on the quieter side—except for when she was commanding high-energy students. She was a rock star at getting preteens to behave in the classroom, which was one reason she loved her job. The other was summer vacations— when she wasn’t being coerced into teaching summer school. “If I arrive late to my own wedding week, Grandmother Margaret’s going to pounce,” Jackie persisted. “She already hinted that she thought I was unreliable and might not make it.” She adopted a high falsetto, imitating the older woman. “With your very busy schedule, are you sure you can squeeze in one more wedding?  

About Ginny Baird:

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

Connect Ginny Baird:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bookbub | Amazon

Sleeping With Shadows by Rachel Hailey ~ Excerpt & Giveaway

 

Sleeping With Shadows
Rachel Hailey
Published by: FyreSyde Publishing
Publication date: September 22nd 2020
Genres: Adult, Paranormal, Romance

Once The King of Nightmares, Ashe lost everything when he was betrayed. Released from prison, he’s got one goal: Stay Free. To make that happen he’ll have to rescue the girl who stole his crown while saving the court he’d rather see burn. But he can’t do it alone. He needs Callie.

Abused, neglected, and finally shunned by The Court of Light, Callie is done with court politics. It’s just too damned bad Ashe doesn’t care. He’s arrogant, manipulative, and dangerous. Everything she’s been taught to fear. It would be so easy to hate him, but the sadness in his gaze calls to her heart, and his touch awakens her own darkness. She has never wanted anyone more.

Callie is Ashe’s darkest desire, but to earn his freedom and prevent the destruction of humanity, she must embrace the destiny that will keep them apart. But is the safety of the world worth losing the kind of love he’s only dreamed of?

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT:

THE SOFT KNOCK STAYED HER HAND. SHE LOOKED AT THE ALARM clock blinking in her palm as if the sound had somehow come from the object.

Before she could respond, the door swung open. The light from the hall illuminated Ashe. Callie’s mouth ran dry.

His shirt off, jeans unbuttoned and riding low on his hips, he looked like an advertisement for lust. Her eyes roamed over his perfect chest, following the swirling tattoos that curled down deliciously defined abs and continued under the denim waistband.

Her pulse jumped as he came toward her. Only then did she remember she was naked, not that she cared. She dropped the alarm clock, it bounced from the bed to the floor.

She ignored it. She only had eyes for Ashe. She bit her bottom lip as anticipation zinged through her body.

“Can’t sleep,” Ashe stated, his deep husky voice made her heart beat faster.

“No,” she whispered, still poised on her knees in the middle of the bed.

“You?” He stalked further into her room, as graceful as a hunting cat, and ten times more sensual than any human.

This would be amazing.

He stopped at the edge of the mattress and folded his hands behind his back.

“Not so much,” he replied.

“Need help?”

“That’s my line,” he said but didn’t move from his spot.

She laughed softly. “Then come help me.” She crooked her finger at him and watched with appreciation as his chest moved, sending muscles rippling.

“Lay down.” The strain in his voice was so erotic. Excitement building, she did as he bid. “Close your eyes.”

She should have expected him to be demanding. She grinned, loving it. Her sheet landed over her body before his hands deftly moved around her form, tucking her in so the sheet hugged the curves of her body.

His hands lingered, sending goosebumps cascading across her skin. The bed dipped as he leaned over her.

Callie moved her head so she could watch behind slitted eyes as he hovered.

“We have to sleep.”

Sleep was the last thing on her mind.

He brushed his fingertips across her lips, making her shiver. As his index finger lingered against her bottom lip, her mouth fell open, and she captured the digit between her teeth. He hissed in pleasure. Emboldened by the sound, she closed her lips around his finger and swirled her tongue around the tip. She tasted victory as she heard his breath speed.

She nipped him playfully before letting go. He growled, causing her to giggle.

“We really need to sleep.” Ashe’s eyes were glowing, and she could feel the beat of his magic. “You said that already.”

“I know.” Ashe leaned closer, his lips parted.

“Kiss me,” Callie whispered.

“That would be a bad idea.” His eyes seemed to grow brighter.

Author Bio:

Rachel Hailey was born and raised in the South. She's all about that nerd life and in between writing she's dedicated herself to raising the next generation of nerds.If she's not online or staring at a book she can usually be found at the local game store rolling dice, shuffling cards, or planning her next cosplay.

Her childhood was most prominently shaped by the works of R.L. Stine, Stephen King, Anne Rice and the Brothers Grimm.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram


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Thursday, September 24, 2020

Romancing The Holidays - A First Coast Romance Writers Anthology ~ Excerpt & Giveaway

 

Romancing the Holidays: A First Coast Romance Writers Holiday Anthology
Publication date: September 22nd 2020
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

A dozen ways to fall in love at the holidays…

Come celebrate the holidays with these dozen unique romances, ranging from sweet to steamy and all ending with a happily-ever-after. This anthology of short stories, written by multi-award-winning authors, including New York Times best-selling author, Alyssa Day, will transport you from Labor Day and Halloween antics to Christmas and Valentine romantics. Its stories will whisk you away into contemporary, historical, and paranormal worlds where love prevails. So, savor the authors featured in this enchanting book and bet your heart on some romantic cheer while you enjoy these twelve ways to fall in love.

Proceeds from this novel benefit First Coast Romance Writers, a non-profit chapter of Romance Writers of America that helps writers hone their craft and expand their knowledge of the publishing industry. A portion of the proceeds are also donated to FeedAmerica.org.

Goodreads / Amazon

SNEAK PEEKS:

“Faking it for the Holidays” by Lia Davis:

Julius probably shouldn’t be as happy as he was about his parents going on a cruise the week of Christmas. But he was. For the first time since he met his best friend and future wife—although she didn’t know that yet—he would be able to spend a normal, quiet, holiday season with Tara.

Just the two of them.

Was it wrong that he wanted to spend Christmas with his best friend, alone?

They didn’t have to listen to his parents, especially his mom, go on and on about how they should get married and give her beautiful grandbabies. It was embarrassing and made things awkward between them for the whole trip to Oregon to spend Christmas with his parents.

Tara had always been fantastic about his crazy family, which made her even more perfect for him. She never complained. She fit right in with them and humored his mom when she started in about the future of their lives and how they weren’t getting any younger.

The whole thing made him hesitate to ask Tara to marry him. He didn’t want her to think he was pressured into proposing, which he wasn’t. He loved her from the moment they met as kids.

He wanted to show her how much he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her, without the pressure of his family lurking and watching them. Yessir, this year was going to be different.

He had Tara to himself.

His cell rang and he snatched it up from the kitchen counter where he was prepping movie-night snacks for him and Tara. It was their usual Saturday night “date” to make fun of bad movies. Not looking at the screen and thinking it was Tara, he said, “You better not be backing out on tonight.”

There was a long few moments of silence. Jules’ heart dropped to his feet. She wasn’t coming over. He’d spent all week gathering the courage to finally tell her how he felt. That he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her and not as just her best friend. He wanted more. “Tara?”

“Oh, no silly. It’s your mother. Don’t you check the caller ID?”

Damn. “Mom. How are you? Are you on the ship?”

She let out a disappointing sigh. “Sadly, no. The cruise was canceled last minute. That means we’re staying home for Christmas. You’re coming, right?”

“An Elf’s Challenge” by Vickey Wollan

“Why are you being so nice to me?” She stared straight at him and lifted her chin. Angelina was determined not to be the first one to blink. Then, she noticed he hadn’t blinked either.

“I can do this all day. Remember, sawdust in my eyes regularly – no biggie.” Zack raised his lids and brought his nose inches from hers. “You had me at operational efficiency. I’m hoping you’ll return the favor, let me into the Paint Drying Zone.” He winked.

Angelina’s mouth went dry. No amount of soda could fix it. “Of course!” Oh, dear. What did I just do? What will my father think of me bringing a dust-covered woodworker into the paint shop?


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