Free, free, FREE! Torn Hearts follows Mia and Jensen's story in the beginning. Like many of our own stories, theirs is not complete. Their story will continue in Paper Hearts releasing September 10th! Start Mia & Jensen’s Story for FREE at the following retailers: Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1LRDlye Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1I9jPby iBooks: http://apple.co/1I2ldPy Goodreads Link: http://bit.ly/1DMjMnZ Blurb I met a boy once. He made my heart go into a frenzy every time he looked at me, and my knees go weak whenever he touched me. Our love was so beautiful that even its demise was bittersweet. I met a girl once. Her world, full of possibilities, made me feel like even I had a chance at being someone. She believed in me. She loved me. We were so secure, that even our breaking point seemed hazy. Until we reached it. Author Information Claire Contreras graduated with her BA in Psychology from Florida International University. She lives in Miami, Florida with her husband, two little boys, and three dogs.
Her favorite past times are: daydreaming, writing, and reading. She has been described as a random, sarcastic, crazy girl with no filter. Life is short, and it’s more bitter than sweet, so she tries to smile as often as her face allows. She enjoys stories with happy endings, because life is full of way too many unhappy ones. Stalk Her: Website | Facebook | Twitter
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Title: Cruel BoundariesAuthor: Michelle HorstGenre: Dark RomanceRelease Date: July 30th, 2015He’s my cousin and I love to hate him. He bullies me. He tries to break me every chance he gets I remind him constantly that he’s adopted. It’s the only weapon I have against him. Authors Note and WARNING: Cruel Boundaries is a work of fiction intended for adult readers above 18. It contains dark and sensitive subject matter that may make readers uncomfortable. Contains explicit language and descriptions of sexual situations. *** Standalone *** *** No Cliffhanger *** *** HEA *** This book is not for everyone. Please only read it if you can handle the subject matter and are able to keep an open mind whilst reading. If you want a perfect love story, this is not it.Michelle Horst is thirty seven years old and is from the land of milk and honey. She's been in love with reading from an early age. She has a passion for other cultures, but she has an ultimate soft spot for nature and animals. She first tried her hand at writing in early 2009 and as the first words started to form into a book, she knew she was hooked. Dreams spilled onto pages, and that was the beginning of a wonderful journey. One filled with joy. One filled with passion and heart stopping moments. But most of all, it's filled with such pride and peace as a story comes to life, and characters fill your life, living in the very walls of your mind, living in the minds of your readers. There is nothing as satisfying as that. Thank you for each and every story you share with me. Sunshine Smiles from around the world and back,Michelle ;). FACEBOOK | TWITTER | WEBSITE | GOODREADS | AMAZONSign up for Michelle's Newsletter
Title: How My Heart Breaks
Series: Try Again #3
Author: Stephanie Smith
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Cover Design: Hang Le from By Hang Le Designs
Release Date: September 3, 2015
Blurb
Is love really enough to put the past where it belongs? Lana Washington chooses to hide. She hides from life. Hides from her abusive ex-husband. From the fact that everyone she loves eventually she loses, but when Lana’s house catches fire she is forced out of the predictable comfort her life has become. Jake Weston had led a simple life, ever since he was called home from war for a family emergency four years ago, leaving only him and Hallie. Then one phone call throws his neatly-pieced world upside down. Jake wasn’t supposed to be there. This wasn’t his problem. But as soon as those piercing green eyes focused in on him, he knew he was done for. Can Jake hold onto his secret, all the while still holding onto Lana? Will Lana be able to let go of the past and the hurt that binds her to her lonely existence? Or will one small white lie ruin it all?
Author Bio
Loving mushy romance, books, movies and music since she was young, and constantly daydreaming up stories and plots, Stephanie decided to put them on paper. Living in South Australia with her own alpha male and two princesses she spends her days reading, writing and playing with the girls out on their property.
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Title: Indecent Cravings: Part Two
Series: Indecent Cravings #2
Author: S.K. Cross
Genre: Erotic Romance
Release Date: July 30, 2015
Blurb
Abigail's fun and dirty conversion to her sexy alter-ego Jayd continues in Part Two of the hot new steamy series INDECENT CRAVINGS WARNING: This is NOT a story for prudes. Abigail settles into her new life in Miami with a restaurant job on the beach, all the while keeping an eye out for the mysterious Lukas Thorn. When a rich old woman invites her to a decadent party and makes a generous offer, Abigail is swept into a hot and filthy world of kinky fun. Soon she finds herself under the tutelage of the "Director", competing against two other girls to gain admission to Lukas Thorn's submission school. Sparks fly, passions grow, and dark glimpses into Lukas Thorn's tortured soul are revealed as Abigail tries to get a foothold into his world of joyous debauchery. DO NOT READ IF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING OFFENDS YOU: Dirty talk, floggers, riding crops, anal sex, strap-on dildos, heavy ropes, threesomes, foursomes, moresomes, tongues in places they probably shouldn't go, sensory deprivation, public humiliation, girl-on-girl, girl-on-guy, guy-on-two-girls, two-girls-on-girl, well-endowed M2F transsexual-on-girl, well-endowed M2F transsexual-on-guy, tease and denial contests, dominatrixes, and sex swings...all consensual and in the spirit of fun and personal growth. (Not all of these appear in this book but will be explored over the course of the series... and more!) You have been warned. THEMES EXPLORED: Overcoming personal challenges, discovering one's purpose in life, inspiring people to live their own lives on their own terms, and refusing to allow others to control how you think. Mature content. 18+ ONLY. Book 2 of a multiple-part continuing series.
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Excerpt
A shadow blocks some of the light behind me. I turn.
I’m glad I had some of that drink, because I nearly have a heart attack at the sight of Lukas Thorn.
Everything disappears. The sunset, the cavernous apartment, the low hum of the conversations, the music. My entire world centers on the man I’ve been trying to find for two weeks.
Right here.
And not just here, but standing directly in front of me again.
I try not to squeal in delight.
If I thought he was a god among men before, I’m only more convinced now.
He’s in a black flowing shirt, one of many flowing shirts in his collection apparently. Taut thick chest muscles press it outward anyway, sinewy neck muscles leading to broad shoulders. Broader than before. Like he had some added on since the last time I saw him.
But no, that’s ridiculous. I’m just seeing them from a new angle. So close. So close I could almost stick my tongue out and . . .
“Jayden Raye, Jayd for short,” says Lorena, “I’d like you to meet Director Lukas Thorn. Oh, but that’s right. I forgot. You two have already met. I believe Lukas saved your life at Bogart that night a couple of weeks ago.”
I’m not sure if it’s just me or if it’s both Lukas and me, but we just stare at each other. He wears a half-smile, the perfect stubble still in place over the tanned skin and flawless square chin that burned itself into my memory on the plane here.
His hair is especially “just-fucked” tonight, waves of brownish-black darkness with those delightful wispy ends that I just want to bite.
His expression is relaxed but incredulous as he stares into me, his sapphire eyes searing a sensuous pathway into my soul. He looks at me like he knows me, like he’s known me for a thousand years.
Yeah, glad I waited. Fuck Karissa and Jaxon. Fuck Javier. Fuck those shitheads who hit on me. This is what I want! This man right here! Wherever he is, I’m home.
“What the fuck, Lorena?” says Lukas Thorn, not breaking his stare into my eyes.
His words knock me out of my spell. I turn to look at Lorena’s shocked expression.
“Excuse me?” she says.
“This is a joke, Lorena. What are you up to?”
She folds her arms and throws him an evil questioning stare. “I don’t like your tone, Lukas.” Her voice has gone three octaves lower than usual.
He chuckles, then returns his gaze to me. He looks me up and down like he’s buying a horse.
“No thanks, Lorena,” he says as he turns to walk away. “I’m not going to fall for it again.”
At that, he turns and drifts across the room. Everyone notices him, like he’s the center of all magnetism in the universe.
I’m frozen in place, unable to move. I’m not sure what I’m feeling.
Did he just reject me like I think he just did? Like a piece of meat?
“Don’t let him get to you,” Lorena says. “It’s just his nature. He likes you.”
I take another sip of my drink, watching his broad shoulders under that muscular neck as he joins a group of well-dressed women at a tall round table on the other end of the balcony. He motions a naked attendant over. His is flawlessly blonde.
Bitch.
“He likes me?” I say. “That’s not how someone reacts when they like you. Wait, oh wait. Is it him? Is he the one you want to ‘sell’ me to?”
“No, of course not, dear. And there’s no selling. That’s an awful term. He’s just the director of my academy. It is very strange that he reacted that way. Wait, you don’t know him, do you? Did you meet him before the restaurant?”
My head spins. I don’t know how to answer. I don’t want to tell her about the plane. Apparently, she doesn’t know about it. The less people who know, the better.
Suddenly, my inner diva fires up inside. I never know when she’s going to show up. Yeah baby, hello! I down the rest of my drink . . . hoo-hah! . . . and place it on a nearby table.
“If you would excuse me for a moment, Lorena,” I say.
“Of course,” she says.
I march across the room toward that flowing untucked shirt and glistening hair. I plant myself behind him and to the left, making eye contact with the three bitches who are laughing at whatever he’s saying. My heart beats out of my chest as I wait.
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I never thought that, at 40, this would be my life. Mourning the loss of the man I vowed to love for life was hard enough. Online dating, starting a business, and falling in love was never the plan.
Victoria Bennett has been blessed with a loving husband, a wonderful son and amazing friends. Always the organized planner, Victoria was thrown life's curve ball when she found herself a widow and single mom before 40. After mourning the loss of her husband and rejoining her friends and family in her once simple life, Victoria finds herself venturing into the world of online dating with little success.
After hanging up her keyboard and focusing on new experiences and hobbies, Victoria is as surprised as everyone else when her favorite pastime leads to a new career and passion for life. When a friendship turns to romance, her life is once again thrown for a loop. Like everything new in her life she takes on the relationship with gusto, and a series of mishaps.
Victoria soon learns that sometimes the life you've planned isn't the life you lead. It is still your life, just your life rewritten.
“I’m sorry, what?”
I had to have heard him wrong, right? There is no way this guy is serious. And yet, by the look on his face, I’m pretty sure he is.
This is the worst date ever.
“I said I would love to take you back to your house and pleasure your feet,” he says with more than a hint of disdain.
Well, hell. I had heard him correctly. He said pleasure and feet. Together. On purpose. Oh, I’m going to pleasure my feet all right, by sticking my stiletto up his ass. This guy is nuts if he thinks I’m taking him back to my house so he can get his rocks off by messing with my feet. I get it; I am wearing some pretty hot shoes. I thought they were ridiculous at first, but my sister, Charlotte, insisted they were a must have for my new life. I still don’t know why I need a new life, but I listened, and if I’m completely honest, I love them. Peep-toe, leopard-print, five-inch stilettos that make me feel like I can hold my own in this crazy world. They give me the power I need for moments like this.
“You know, Phillip, I don’t think I’m really there.”
I’m not likely to ever actually be there. Sadly for Phillip, I lack a poker face and imagine my eyes have fluttered a minimum of ten times while I purse my lips and inhale through my nose and out through my mouth.
Looking across the table, I am greeted with a furrowed brow and a look I can’t quite put my finger on, but I know it isn’t welcoming. Shit. I’d hoped to at least leave this date with a friend.
Andrea Johnston spent her childhood with her nose in a book and a pen to paper. An avid people watcher, her mind is full of stories that yearn to be told. A fan of angsty romance with a happy ending, super sexy erotica and a good mystery, Andrea can always be found with her Kindle nearby fully charged.
Andrea lives in Idaho with her family and two dogs. When she isn’t spending time with her partner in crime aka her husband, she can be found binge watching all things Bravo and enjoying a cocktail. Nothing makes her happier than the laughter of her children, a good book, her feet in the water, and cocktail in hand all at the same time.
Title: For A Reason
Author: T.N. Cole
Release Date: Sept 3, 2015
She loved me.
I failed her.
She loves me.
I'll break her.
Tristan Westdyke seems to have it all: he's handsome, athletic, smart, and admired. What people don't see beyond the façade, though, is the pain and guilt eating away at his soul. Blaming himself for the loss of another person, Tristan trudges through life not allowing himself to feel.
But when the beautiful and energetic Katelyn Sharp barrels into his life, Tristan is helpless to resist emotions long buried. A connection slowly grows between the two, yet secrets and deceit threaten to shatter the fragile trust and love they’ve found.
Can two people who have been hurt and betrayed open their hearts up once more? Can both accept that all may have happened For a Reason?
I reached up and pushed Kate’s hair out of her face. It was pulled to one side, but it had long fallen out of the updo it was in when the sight of her first took my breath away tonight. I lightly traced my fingers over the bandage covering the right side of her forehead and I hovered over the outline of some of the bruises and scratches. I watched my fingers, and I felt her watching me—waiting for me to tell her something. I wanted so badly to trace her lips on my exploration of her face—to feel her breath on my fingertips. But, I forced myself to pull back. “Don’t look at me like that,” I finally whispered.
“Like what?” she frowned.
“Don’t look at me like I saved you. I’m the reason this happened to you. You’re looking at me like you’re so happy that I’m here. Those guys shouldn’t have slipped something in your drink, or whatever they did. If I were paying attention, they wouldn’t have almost made off with you. I did this to you, and don’t you fucking forget it.” I stopped to take a deep, shuddering breath and buried my face in my hands.
“Funny,” Kate said coldly as she leaned forward. “I didn’t peg you as the victim type.”
I reared back. “What?”
“You heard me,” she snapped. “I was the one who had something slipped in my drink. And apparently, I was the one who was almost kidnapped. But I wasn’t. Because you stopped them from taking me. You brought me here. I’m safe. So, quit the pity party on yourself.”
My hands had fallen from my face during her tirade to meet her now angry glare. I didn’t know if I was supposed to be madat what she was saying or not, but I didn’t have the time to figure it out because she wasn’t done yet. “Do you know how Aimee knew to go get you from the waiting room? I begged her to go get you because, somehow, I knew you would be there. I knew you were the one who saved me from whatever caused me to end up in the freaking hospital. So, none of this is your fault. Yes, we shouldn’t have separated, but that’s on both of us. But, it’s not my fault or your fault that some asshole roofied me, capisce?”
She was breathing heavily by the end of her rant. She slowly fell back against the pillows, closing her eyes. I watched her as she got her breathing under control, knowing I had to choose my next words carefully. I didn’t want to upset her more, and I knew that everything she said was true. “Hey. Kate.” I threaded my fingers through hers and waited until she slowly opened her eyes to peek at me. “You’re right. You’re absolutely right. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to upset you more; it’s just... You were so gorgeous tonight. I wanted you to stay by me, but I couldn’t ask you for that. And all of a sudden, I couldn’t find you, and then you were almost kidnapped, and I couldn’t get you to open your eyes. I couldn’t see your beautiful brown eyes,” I was so quiet; I knew she had to be straining to hear me. I didn’t want her to know how helpless I had felt. How I felt like I had failed and lost all over again. And how my feelings for her were getting too intense and they were scaring me.
She tightened her grip on my hand. “I heard you, you know. Through the haze, you said ‘Katelyn, please’. And that’s how I knew something was wrong. So, I fought to wake up. You brought me back.”
I closed my eyes, fighting off the onslaught of emotion threatening to take over me. If only I had been able to save Mel like I was able to save Kate. I didn’t know what else to say. I was exhausted and I knew she had to be in even worse shape than I was. “You should get some rest, Kate. We can talk in the morning. I’ll be here. I’m not going to leave you.”
T.N. Cole spends her time seeking new adventures, determined to make her life a memorable story. A recent graduate with a bachelor in biology, T.N. is headed to graduate school at Texas Tech to pursue her long time dream of becoming a pharmacist. When she's not reading, writing, or studying, you'll find her trying to stay out of trouble or planning her ultimate dream of traveling the world.
Release Blitz Title: Because of Summer Author: Elle Vaughn Genre: Contemporary Romance Release Date: July 29, 2015 SYNOPSIS: Taylor is a cocky Miami bartender with something to prove. Working at The Tide with her best friend Kade, she boosts her ego by seducing all the straight girls that Kade is interested in. After promising him that for the sake of their friendship she'll quit her little game, he meets the girl who he thinks could be the love of his life. But Taylor also feels immediately drawn to her. Diem, a free spirited Bohemian girl, is like no one Taylor's met before. But having sworn to Kade that she wouldn't try anything, she’s going to uphold her promise and be a good friend. But as her attraction to Diem grows deeper, Taylor finds it harder and harder to hide it. Diem is spending her summer break in Florida. Crashing at her friend Katie's place, she's positive this summer will prove to be her most exciting yet. It starts off without a hitch when she meets a gorgeous and charismatic man named Kade who sweeps her off her feet. Diem is beyond infatuated with him, but after having just broken up with her long term boyfriend, she wants to take things slow. As Diem struggles with her feelings for Kade, she befriends his best friend. Diem is intrigued by Taylor and wants to get to know her better. Although, Diem can tell that Taylor is attracted to her, Diem just doesn't share her feelings. As the two grow closer, Diem brings out a side of Taylor that she has never let loose before. Diem makes Taylor feel more carefree than ever before, while Diem is sent reeling on a whirlwind path of self discovery. Despite Diem's wavering feelings, Kade never gives up on making her his. Diem must decide between the man who’s perfect for her or the woman she can‘t imagine herself without. EXCERPT: After the line thinned out, Kade went back to walking the floor and checking on tables. Seeing Samantha had irritated me but it wasn’t what was on my mind. Diem had called me multiple times and yet I was too much of a pussy to answer. What was I so afraid of? I wanted to talk to her so badly, but I knew if I did that all the wrong words would come out of my mouth. I’d tell her how much I loved the feel of her in my arms and how soft her skin was or how good her hair smelled. I wasn’t even positive why she was calling me so much. I wondered if maybe she was mad about what happened. Maybe she wanted to tell me off. But what if she didn’t? What if she liked our kiss, too? She seemed to enjoy it at the time. But maybe she was having second thoughts about it now. What if she enjoyed kissing me? What did that mean? I groaned and snatched up a new bottle of tequila from beneath the counter. I couldn’t do that to Kade. He’d been my best friend since I moved out to Miami and has been by my side through every shitty moment in my life thereafter. Every fucked up thing my mom said to me, every time my dad let me down. Even through all the shitty things I did to him. He stood by me. I couldn’t fuck all that up now. Even if it was for her. Kade’s feelings for her were strong and I had to respect that. But it was hard to imagine that anyone could have stronger feelings for her than me. Add to Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25784488-because-of-summer?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr BUY LINK: http://amzn.to/1SJWnqo AUTHOR BIO:
Elle Vaughn is a total book junkie - especially romance novels. She always dreamed of writing but it wasn't until later in life with the encouragement of her friends and family that she made the leap and wrote her first novella, Taming Anna, the first book in the Anna and Quinton series. After writing Taming Anna, Elle followed it up with Chasing Anna. Lover of the Colorado outdoors, Elle loves running, biking, and hiking. And when she's not watching trashy reality TV, she can be found chasing around her toddler, gardening and attempting to cook for her family! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElleVaughnAuthor Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7361406.Elle_Vaughn?from_search=true Twitter: https://twitter.com/_ElleVaughn Title: A Tempting Ruin Author: Kristin Vayden Genre: Regency Series: Greenford Waters Legacy Publisher: Blue Tulip Publishing Release Date: July 28thHe might be a gentleman by title, but he was a rogue at heart... Beatrix Lamont is in hiding. Sequestered at Lady Southridge's country estate, she assumes the identity of a lady's companion: never once expecting her past would catch up with her. It does, however, in the vexing and seducting form of Lord Neville. Determined and far too charming for his own good--after all who simply demands a woman marry him? Not a gentleman. Lucky for Lord Neville, being a gentleman has never been an option, especially when it comes to Beatrix, the woman would try the patient of a saint, and every encounter with her leaves his body yearning for more. Caught between wanting her for himself and needing to protect her from dangers that lurk in the shadows of both their pasts, he must eventually make a choice. Become the gentleman he's never been--or play the seducer she brings out in him, and hope in the end she'll forgive him for using her to catch a killer.***This is an Interconnected Standalone*** Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo | Smashwords “Good afternoon.” Lord Neville’s voice broke through the serene silence of the orangery, startling Beatrix and causing her heart to practically take flight. Quickly she spun to face the man speaking, a hand covering her heart as she willed the racing cadence to abate. His grey eyes took her in with a calculating glint as he lazily stood from his perch on the alcove bench. There was nothing for it; he knew. It was useless to pretend otherwise. “Hello, Lord Neville. Were the theatrics to your liking?” Beatrix asked with a saucy lilt to her tone as she watched him close the distance. He clapped slowly, drawing out the gesture. “It might have fooled me…” he replied offhandedly as he shrugged. “But?” Beatrix asked. “It was your hands.” “Pardon?” Beatrix asked, confused as she lifted her hands and inspected them. “When you’re nervous, you tend to touch your fingertips to your thumb in succession. It’s a telling habit.” “I do?” Beatrix asked as she studied her hands once more then turned her gaze to the man before her. “Yes.” “How did you know—“ “The library.” Beatrix caught her breath then released it slowly, but she could tell by the spark in his gaze that he hadn’t missed her reaction. Damn the man. The library… it was nothing. Rather, it should have been nothing. “Oh.” She tried to recover. His amused chuckle caused her to narrow her eyes, but, rather than show any remorse, his grin grew. Becoming more devastatingly alluring by the moment. Heaven help her, but she was helpless against the man. She shouldn’t be. There had been just a few stolen moments shared… nothing lasting. Nothing that should create such a draw. But it was there, nonetheless. “You’re doing it again.” He glanced down to her fingers then met her gaze once more. Sure enough, she felt her fingers pause as she realized he was indeed correct. How was it that she had never noticed that about herself, yet he, a… well, not a total stranger… had memorized such a nuance? “Be that as it may…” Beatrix straightened her shoulders and took a few steps to the left, avoiding his direct approach. “…what is it that you want?” she asked in a clipped tone. “The truth,” he replied softly, tilting his head. “Concerning?” Beatrix asked, taking another side step toward a leafy orange tree. “Concerning why you’re here, of course.” “I would think it’s obvious,” Beatrix replied loftily as she wound around the orange tree’s trunk, keeping an eye on the approaching lord. Lord Neville clicked his tongue and shook his head, all the while sending her a mischievous grin that melted her insides. “Miss Lamont, we both know that I’m after far more than the obvious… or, in this case… what you wish for me to believe. I’ll warn you that I’m not so easily deterred.” “Oh, is that so?” Beatrix sent him an arch look. “It would seem that you are quite… easily startled,” she shot back. His gaze narrowed as he paused in his approach. “What made you create such an assumption?” “Why, the library of course.” She bit back a grin at the irritated flash in his gaze upon turning the tables back on him. “The library? Tell me, Miss Lamont, was that before or after I compromised you?” he asked with a dark grin. “You — oh! You know very well that—“ “That if any matron of society had stumbled into our cozy little interlude you would have been ruined… which was why I walked away. Walked… not ran… as you just implied.” Beatrix bit her lip and glanced away, hating that he was right and had used her shortsighted attempt at victory to turn her own wit against her. Miserable man. “You did leave… the next day, that is,” she reminded him, watching his expression as it was fixed upon her. “I did,” he replied then took another step toward her. She placed the tree between them but peeked around the trunk. “Why?” she asked, unable to meet his regard as she spoke. “Why?” he repeated softly. Beatrix swallowed her cursed pride and glanced up, compelled by her curiosity to be brave. “Why did you leave so abruptly?” “For being so expertly compromised—“ “Oh bother.” Beatrix rolled her eyes and stepped away, irritated, and gave her back to the lord. “It was a kiss—“ “Perhaps for you…” Lord Neville’s hand grasped hers and halted her recession. Just as she remembered, his hand was warm, enveloping hers completely. A shiver of delighted expectation ripped through her as she slowly turned to face him. Blinking, she waited as his gaze roamed her features and settled on her lips. “As I was saying… for being so expertly compromised…” Amusement danced in his expression. “…you’re truly innocent. I do believe I will have to remedy that,” he whispered as he leaned in and brushed a whisper of a kiss across her jaw. It was as if a thousand butterflies took wing in her belly as she caught the masculine scent of his skin so close to hers. She should reprimand him for taking such liberties… But she rather liked that he was. He withdrew and studied her, as if asking if he should continue. Reaching up, Beatrix stroked his jaw, memorizing the texture of his slight stubble as it tugged at the fabric of her glove. Without hesitation, he pulled her in, meeting her mouth in a kiss that was as intense as it was powerful. Strong arms enveloped her, drawing her into the lee of his commanding presence. His kiss demanded she return the passion, and, without a thought, she kissed him back, instinctively. His flavor was familiar and igniting, comforting and compelling all at once. The soft scent of the orange grove swirled around her, adding to the magic of the moment. His teeth tugged at her lower lip as he pressed against her, reminding her of the power in his arms. Reaching up, she allowed her fingers the delight of exploring the planes and ridges of his shoulders, adding to the attraction already smoldering within. His fingers traced up her arms, teasing the ribbon at her neckline then lacing behind her head as if removing himself from a sweet temptation. His kiss gentled as he continued to playfully nip at her lips. Beatrix held him close, losing herself in the moment, committing every nuance to memory as she traced his lower lip with her tongue as he lingered. “Come away with me,” he whispered against her mouth. “No,” she replied, nipping his lip impishly. Surely he hadn’t asked in earnest. He pulled her in tighter with a slightly irritated growl before he lowered his head to trail kisses down her neck. “Yes.” “No… you’re mad.” Beatrix spoke far too breathlessly to be taken seriously. His tongue tickled her neck as he whispered, “I prefer persuasive.” “I’d say incessant,” she shot back as she leaned away to meet his gaze. He grinned then reached up to tug on a curl that had fallen near her face. “Incessantly persuasive.” “Fair… but you must know that I cannot go anywhere with you. I’m here with Lady Southridge, and I cannot leave.” “Why?” His grin faded. “It is all but apparent that you were not abducted, as I was led to believe, and, according to my deductions from reason, it is only logical that the duke was at least somehow aware that Lady Southridge took you away. Dear heavens…” He took a step back. “…please tell me she has not deluded herself into thinking she’s your protection!” “I have no idea to what you are referring—“ “You indeed do, so do not insult my intelligence with so weak a lie.” He spoke in clipped tones. Beatrix folded her hands in front of herself and stepped away. “I’m afraid I cannot give to you that which you ask.” “Then I’m afraid I have no other option,” Lord Neville replied and started toward her. “Wh-what do you think you’re doing?” Beatrix asked, not sure how to interpret the determined gleam in his eye. “What I should have done in the library months ago,” he mumbled. Beatrix backed up till she felt the cool stone wall at her back. At his knowing grin, she narrowed her eyes and turned to run. But he was too quick. In one motion, he swept her into his arms and proceeded to walk toward the orangery’s exit. “What are you doing?” Beatrix demanded as she struggled in his arms. One foot was able to get a proper kick to his person, and he grunted in response. “Miss Lamont, I’ll be quite upset if you ruin this jacket,” he replied with far too much control. Irritated by his composed attitude, Beatrix gave another kick just to spite him. “You’ll pay for that later,” he promised. “We shall see about that. Now, let me down! I demand it!” she shrieked as she bucked in his arms again. “What exactly are you planning to do? Waltz up to Breckridge House and knock on the door?” “Waltzing would prove to be difficult at this point… however, walking up to the front door will suffice.” “Why?” “I believe that was my question… to which you fully refused to answer… therefore requiring me to resort to my more assertive measures.” “This is not assertive. This is asinine!” Beatrix glared then gasped as she had a brilliant idea. Without hesitation, she reached up and mussed his hair, causing the dark chocolate curls to go from tame to wild as they erratically stuck from his head. “What—? Did you truly—?” He all but dropped her and ran his fingers through his hair. Beatrix wasted no time and sprinted as fast as her slippered feet could carry her across the grass toward Breckridge House. The sound of Lord Neville pursuing her was enough incentive to give one final burst of speed that would have surely gotten her to the safety of the servants’ entrance, if not for the root of a tree that seemed to spring out of the earth. One moment she was running, cursing her corset as she gasped for breath; the next moment she was flat on her back, unable to breathe at all. Hands at her throat, she tried to gasp, but no air entered her starving lungs. “Damn it all,” Lord Neville swore then hauled her up and, with one hand, felt for the laces of her corset. And the world faded to grey. **** Neville ground out a low oath as he felt the hoyden in his arms go limp. To be honest, in his efforts to restrain her, he hadn’t acted in the most gentlemanly fashion, but that was the way it was with Miss Lamont. He lost his bloody mind around her; all rational thought evaporated like water on a hot stone. He felt for the offending corset then reached down and withdrew a knife from his boot. With one motion, he carefully slid the knife’s edge along the back of her gown, damning himself with each snap of the laces, till the garment hung loosely, exposing the creamy white skin at her back. Glancing away from the temptation, he laid her gently on her back, taking a deep breath when he noticed the soft rise and fall of her chest, signifying the life-giving intake of oxygen. It was hard enough to get the breath knocked out of oneself, let alone while wearing a corset. Another reason to thank the good Lord he was a man. Though he had to give her credit for the speed at which she ran; it was impressive to gain that kind of velocity in skirts. He studied her face, tempted to count the smattering of freckles on her nose, the kind that simply highlighted the softness of her skin. They were a reflection of the caramel tones of her eyes; eyes that were just starting to flutter open. Long lashes blinked as her gaze grew in focus. Damn, but she was beautiful. It was no wonder he lost all reason around her. But it wasn’t her outer beauty that has so captivated him… it was her wit, her inability to take him seriously. Ever since the incident with Mary — heavens above, how he wanted to forget it all — everyone in the ton had done one of two things: feared him or ignored him. Neither of which were boons as far he was concerned. But Miss Lamont, Beatrix, as he thought of her… When everyone else had given him a wide berth, she’d elbowed him in the ribs; when everyone else had deferred to him, she’d put him in his place. In the library at Greenford Waters, it had taken him all but a few seconds to know she was different, that she was, in a word, perfect — for him at least. But, of course that hadn’t given him license to kiss her like he had, regardless of how much he’d wanted to continue kissing her… amongst other things. But that was before, when he’d assumed he’d have time to pay her court, to clear the mystery surrounding his name before approaching the duke with his suit for her hand. Then she had been taken, or so he’d thought, and all the other details had seemed trivial. So here he stood — sat, rather — in the middle of the English countryside with Miss Beatrix flat on her back, gasping as she filled her lungs with air and completely unlaced… without one ounce of pleasure to be had by either of them! How was it possible? Irony at its best. He could do nothing but laugh as he considered the situation. “Why, in heaven’s name, are you laughing?” she ground out between breaths. Her brown eyes were stormy and angry, yet all he felt was a deepening of his attraction, a delight at finding some new nuance about her. “It is of no consequence,” he replied, choking back his mirth as he stood. “I doubt that,” she said a bit easier since her breath was now less labored. She made a movement to sit up, her eyes widening like tea saucers as she reached back to feel her, well… back. “You— How—? I cannot believe—“ “I assure you it was all in efforts to save your life, not ravish you… though I must say the idea does have some merit—“ Her growl cut off his words. “If I could stand, I’d slap that grin right off your handsome face. “Oh, so you think I’m handsome? I always fancied I was quite dashing in grey.” “I loathe you.” “Ah, I’m quite fond of you myself.” He shrugged. “But considering your current state of well… undress, I do think we ought find you a way to remain decent. Wouldn’t want to offend my tender gentlemanly sensibilities.” “You are impossible.” “Not entirely.” “Yes, entirely, completely and unequivocally.” She lay back down and closed her eyes. “What exactly happened to me?” He glanced up as a few servants exited the nearby door and gasped as they saw them then rushed back inside. By his estimation, he had about two minutes before Lady Southridge found them. Which would play into his plan quite nicely… better than his original plan in fact. He took a seat beside Beatrix and patted her hand patronizingly, loving the leap of annoyance in her expression as he did so. “You were overwhelmed with my kissing prowess and fainted in my arms. But don’t worry…” He leaned in. “…your secret is safe with me.” “Liar… I distinctly remember running from you.” “Odd.” He shrugged. “And tripping…” “You are quite clumsy,” he added with a grin. “Am not! Of all my sisters, I’m the most graceful,” she replied with a pout. “Not high praise for your sisters, I’m afraid.” He tugged at his cravat. Surely, the neck cloth was beyond repair, so he tugged at the offense and removed it completely. It would add to the story. “Do not do that! You can’t just remove your neck cloth!” Beatrix scolded in a whisper as she glanced about from her position on her back. “No, no — this won’t do. I must— You must— Turn around!” she demanded as she sat up, holding the back of her dress together as she did so. “Why can I not remove it? After all, I’m still far more presentable than you, my dear,” he shot back as he stood and reached out to help her stand. “Are you stable?” he asked gently as she placed all her weight on her feet. “Yes, no thanks to you,” she spoke with derision. “I do believe I saved your life. A little more gratitude would be appreciated.” “For the last time, I was running from you! You are the reason I’m even in this state!” She took a tentative step and then hissed. “You’re injured. Let me help.” He reached for her. “No, you have helped quite enough,” she bit out and backed away, but her ankle must have been weakened from the fall, and she began to stumble. Lord Neville reached out, grasped her waist, and pulled her in, supporting her. His gloved hands touched the soft skin of her exposed back. Bloody gloves, always in the way! Lilac and rose clung to her skin, and he inhaled deeply, committing the scent to memory. What had started in the library many months ago was about to be finished in only a few seconds, if he had any say in it. Kristin’s inspiration for the romance she writes comes from her tall, dark and handsome husband with killer blue eyes. With five children to chase, she is never at a loss for someone to kiss, something to cook or some mess to clean but she loves every moment of it! She loves to make soap, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and gluten free muffins. Life is full of blessings and she praises God for the blessed and abundant life He’s given her.FACEBOOK | TWITTER | TUMBLR | GOODREADS | AMAZONSign up for Kristin’s Newsletter Enter to win a KINDLE FIRE a Signed paperback of What the Duke Wants a Signed paperback To Tempt an Earl And a 10.00 Gift card to Amazon or BN
Today we’re revealing the cover of Kyla Linde’s The Affiliate! I am so excited about this fantastic YA fantasy!! Title: The Affiliate (Ascension, 1) Author: K. A. Linde Release Day: September 15th Genre: YA Fantasy About The Affiliate: On the day of her Presenting, in front of the entire Byern Court, seventeen-year-old Cyrene Strohm's lifelong plans come to fruition when she's chosen as an Affiliate to the Queen. Or so she thinks. When Cyrene receives a mysterious letter and an unreadable book, she finds nothing is as it seems. Thrust into a world of dangerous political intrigue and deadly magic, Cyrene's position only grows more treacherous when she finds herself drawn to the one man she can never have... King Edric himself. Cyrene must decide if love is truly worth the price of freedom. Find out in this first book in USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde’s new Ascension series. Add on Goodreads Pre-Order Now: Amazon | Itunes Exclusive Excerpt: “Do you enjoy the view?” King Edric asked. “The rains have made the gardens bloom, and it warms my heart to see it so.” “It is good to know that the gardener approves of the work.” Cyrene laughed lightly. “I have not gardened in a month’s time. I fear I can no longer call myself a gardener.” She remembered when she had told the king of her interest in gardening at the last feast day almost a week ago. After that dance, Queen Kaliana added a list of plants to her assignment, forcing her to reread every page she had already dredged through for information. It had wasted two entire days. “Perhaps I could change that,” he offered. He directed her down the staircase and into the courtyard below lit solely by the setting sun in the distance. Her stomach churned at the thought of him offering assistance to any of her needs. It was like what she had read in her children’s books of the tales of Leifs, and how one request would be necessitated by a much larger sacrifice. Her biggest sacrifice at the present moment was time. She wanted nothing more than to finish her work on agriculture and prove that she could get moved somewhere that involved traveling…and adventure. “On the contrary, My King, I am fully enthralled in my Affiliate duties, and believe that gardening would only distract me from my work.” “You cannot spare one afternoon to spend in my gardens?” His blue-gray eyes searched her face. “If you have half the green thumb you suggest, then it would be delightful to have you on the grounds.” She swallowed. “I really have much work to accomplish before we go on Processional.” “I could speak to the Queen and request it be lessened,” he whispered into the evening air. “No!” It was the first time he had ever admitted to discussing her with the Queen. Hearing him admit it aloud made her voice come out strangled. Cyrene missed her footing on the pebble path and stumbled forward a pace. Edric steadied her. He turned his body to face her in the middle of the garden, and her breath caught at the sight of him in the setting sun. “You do not wish me to speak to the Queen?” “I spoke out of turn. Please forgive me.” “I cannot forgive that which I do not understand. Did the Queen somehow offend you?” Cyrene shook her head. “I fear that the Queen does not…like me.” Edric laughed softly, taking one of her hands in his own. “Oh Cyrene, I believe that the Queen likes no one but herself.” Cyrene found that she, too, could laugh at his comment. “Now, tell me what the Queen has done to make you believe that she dislikes you.” “It’s nothing, my King.” She turned her face away from his. She couldn’t possibly tell him the real reason. “Enough to infuriate you, which is enough for me.” When she looked back up into his blue-gray eyes she felt that same magnetic pull between them. Somehow she had not realized how close they were standing. His hand felt warm against her bare skin. His body only a few inches away from her. His breath hot on her face. Her heart contracted in her chest, and she forced herself to respond. “She speaks of…of your interference, as if…as if you…” Time stretched between them, and she thought for a split second he might move even closer to her. She was rooted in place, captivated by his gaze. “Yes?” His other hand drifted to her waist, and she was suddenly on fire. Their breath mingled together as she murmured, “As if you favor me.” “And do you think that?” “I…” “Yes?” he asked, stepping closer. “I think you have your queen,” she breathed. About K. A. Linde: USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde is the author of The Affiliate, the first book in the Ascension Series. As a military brat, she traveled the world with her family, imaginary friends, and ever-increasing supply of books. She has spent much of her life dreaming up new worlds and characters and forcing them into uncomfortable, usually life-threatening scenarios. After graduating from the University of Georgia with a masters degree in political science, she began spending every waking hour putting those characters onto paper. When not writing, she spends her time dancing, collecting paperbacks in the hopes of filling a Beauty and the Beast style library one day, traveling to visit her friends who live all over the country, and still reading anything she can get her hands on. She currently resides in North Carolina with her husband and two puppies, Lucy and Riker, where she is hard at work on her next novel. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest Enter KA’s fantastic giveaway!! a Rafflecopter giveaway
Title: The Bliss Series Boxed Set
The Whole Damn Harem
Series: Bliss #1-5
Author: BJ Harvey
Release Date: June 30, 2015
Blurb
All five books in the international bestselling Bliss erotic romantic comedy series by BJ Harvey together in one super-sized boxed set. The books are interconnected standalones focusing on a group of twenty-somethings’ in Chicago. Think Sex in the City meets Friends with a side of drama, a lot of crazy humor, and romantic scenes that'll have you swooning one minute and fanning yourself the next. Includes; Temporary Bliss (Bliss #1) - Winner 'Best Humor Romance' 2014 Indie Romance Convention A woman who has sworn off relationships but not off sex – with ‘three friends with benefits’ no less – meets a man who wants to be everything she needs. True Bliss (Bliss #2) A woman wanting her fairytale ending goes online in her search for Mr Right, only to find that he’s been right under her nose all along. Blissful Surrender (Bliss #3) An ice queen cop comes face to face with the only man she’s ever loved and finds that with age comes maturity, and skill. Permanent Bliss (Bliss #3.5) The wedding nobody ever thought would happen between the two most suited Bliss characters (with all of the others along for the ride) Finding Bliss (Bliss #4) The dirty doctor finally meets his match having watch all of his friends settle down. He sets out to show the world there is more to him than his famous “WD” nickname and reputation.
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Author Bio
BJ Harvey is the International Bestselling Author of the Bliss Series. She writes contemporary romance, romantic comedy, and romantic suspense.
An avid music fan, you will always find her with headphones on while writing, and the speakers blaring the rest of the time. She’s a wife, a mom to two beautiful girls, and when she’s not writing – she’s reading. BJ resides with her family in what she considers the best country in the world—New Zealand. She describes her writing as a little swoon, a lot of heat, a bit of drama and a whole lot of love.
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