May 28, 2015 by Tina Williams

NEW RELEASE ~ Closely Guarded Secret, by Natalie Money (includes excerpt and giveaway)

Contemporary Romance

Many might envy Alixandra Quinn. She rubs shoulders with the rich and famous at glitzy society balls and fund-raisers as a photographer for a popular magazine. But, do the envious notice Ali always goes home alone? She has cut herself off from personal relationships and emotional entanglements. It’s a strategy to cope with her past, and for ten years, her strategy has worked.

That is, until she meets Bryce Steede, a young and bold Silicon Valley entrepreneur. When Ali becomes the center of his attention, suddenly her world gets turned upside-down. She may have convinced herself that life is fine the way it is, but he is determined to break down her carefully constructed walls, free her mind and body, and show her pleasures that she couldn’t have imagined.

As Ali navigates through this uncharted journey of self-discovery, she must find the balance between her head and her heart. Is Bryce just another heartache waiting to happen? Will a secret from her past come back to haunt her? Or will Ali make peace with her past and find true happiness . . .

I awaken with a jolt, thinking I’ve fallen out of my seat. As usual, when I fly, I end up scrunched all the way down on the seat as far as I can go. If I wasn’t wearing my seatbelt, I’d be on the floor. Did we hit something? Confused, I sit up, trying to assess the situation only to notice we’re in some awful turbulence. Angry, dark, purple to black rain clouds surround us. My heart starts pounding in my chest. The plane rocks side to side, bouncing us all over the sky. I pull out my earbuds hoping to hear the Captain’s voice saying everything’s okay.

Bryce pries my hand off the armrest and interlocks our fingers. I look over at him, my eyes wide with terror. He’s talking to me, trying to give me reassurance. The only thing going through my mind right now is how afraid I am.

“Shhh, it’s going to be okay, Ali.” He has such a soothing voice when he’s not being an ass. I try to say something, but I can’t speak. Nothing will come out of my mouth.

“Focus on me.” His thumb strokes the back of my hand. It’s serene and has an instant calming effect on me until we hit another pocket of air. Images of the Captain fighting for dominance over the weather and control of the plane against the storm flash through my mind. I know he’s doing all he can so we don’t spiral downward.

Other passengers cry out in panic. My head jerks back toward the window. I can barely breathe. I don’t want him to see me like this – raw emotions, so vulnerable. Weak.

He places his hand on my face, turning it towards him. “Don’t cry. I’ve got you. Just keep looking at me, okay?” He’s trying to calm me but the only thing I can do is nod. I tighten my grip on his hand and he lets me know it’s all right.

My heart is beating so fast, so hard, I can feel it in my ears and can hear each beat. Tears roll down my face and he gently wipes them away with his thumb. In this moment, as much as I despise him, I’m glad he’s here with me.

“I need you to take deep breaths. Can you do that? Do what I do, okay?” I watch his mouth and listen. We hit another pocket of air, but not as violent as the others. My eyes grow wider as more tears stream down my face.

“I’m here. I’m not going to let anything happen to you. Keep looking at me. Ali, I need you to focus on me and listen. Breathe with me.” All the while, he’s still stroking my hand.

When my breathing gets under control, he leans over the armrest wrapping me in a blanket of calm in the comfort of his arms. I collapse into him. My cries are silent as he holds me and strokes my hair. He inhales deeply, gripping me tighter.

Natalie Money is a former corporate travel agent, a wife, and a cat wrangler. As far back as she can recall, she has always loved to people watch and make up stories about their lives. After many years of creating and getting to know the characters and their stories in her mind, she has finally decided to bring them to life on paper in her first novel, Closely Guarded Secret.

With her husbands job, they’re known to relocate often, so when people ask where she lives, she describes herself as a World Citizen.

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May 28, 2015 by Tina Williams

BLOG TOUR ~ Suit Yourself (Men of London), by Susan Mac Nicol (includes excerpt and giveaway)

Erotic M/M Romance

Adult/18+ Read

Goodreads Boroughs Publishing

Scarred both physically and emotionally after a motorcycle accident, twenty-five year old ex fashion model and porn star Oliver Brown is about to be stripped bare by flamboyant twink Leslie Scott—and they’ll rebuild love from the bottom up.

BARING THE BEAST

Twenty-five year old Oliver Brown is addicted. Two years ago, he was at the height of his career as “Nicky Starr,” fashion model, porn actor, partier without peer. Then came the accident. Hiding his scars, both emotional and physical, he’s gone into hiding. But fine clothing is some solace. A new suit by Debussy? Better even than a ride on his motorcycle Hulk or all the things he used to give and take on camera.

Enter Leslie Scott, the flamboyant, dark-haired, heel-and-tiny-short-wearing twink sent to deliver Oliver’s newest fix. A firecracker, Leslie is dapper, generous, in touch with his feminine side but all man, and as gorgeous as any garment ever made. He makes Oliver dream of ending his reclusion, of recapturing a future forever denied him. But for that to happen, Leslie would have to strip him to the bone. Only then will they rebuild life from the bottom up.

Excerpt

Oliver’s arrived home horny and needs to relieve the tension…

The film, titled The War Whore, started and Oliver wondered if he was a narcissist watching his own movie. However, he wanted to see Adam in action, imagine it was Leslie above him, see those cobalt blue eyes staring into his as he fucked him. His cock rose and Oliver sighed in satisfaction as his hands got busy. There was something to be said about living alone and having the privacy to jack off in your own living room using the lube that was scattered around the place.

Through lazy eyes, he watched himself lying on a medieval divan, dressed in an opened leather waistcoat, chest hair showing. He remembered that those pants had been the most uncomfortable leather ones he’d ever worn. They were opened to show his cock upright and purpled, already glistening and definitely ready for the slave who stood in front of him. Adam smiled invitingly on screen and dropped his tunic to reveal an impressive dick and a slim, muscled body. He also had a backside that you could bounce coins off. The man’s arse had been bite-worthy, and Oliver’s mouth filled with saliva as he imagined what Leslie’s would be like. From what he’d seen today, the man had a tight, bubble arse and Oliver really wanted in.

Languid strokes to his cock made his pulse race; his mouth opened and his heavy breaths echoed in the room. He watched the events playing out on screen, as Adam straddled him and then rammed down on his cock with a fierce battle cry and began to bounce up and down like a yo-yo. Oliver closed his eyes and imagined that scene, but with Leslie in the slave role. Black bangs over blue eyes framed a face that was pale and delicate, yet with the strength of a man’s jaw and square cheekbones that made no mistake about the gender of the person currently riding Oliver’s cock.

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Trailer

Want to find out more about the book and the characters? Head down to visit his website and have a truly visual sexperience. Meet Nicky in all his glory and see what he has to say about the porn industry, love, and life in general. This is a website intended for over eighteens only and if you are easily offended, we suggest you stay away.

http://www.nickystarr.co.uk/

MEN OF LONDON SERIES PREVIOUS BOOKS

One of London’s up-and-coming chefs, Eddie Tripp has just the right recipe to drive tragedy from the mind of Gideon Kent—and leave him senseless with desire. THE MEN OF LONDONFrom Soho to Norwich, there’s no escaping love.A TASTE OF FOREVERAn award-winning chef with his own restaurant and an inexhaustible passion, Gideon Kent once had everything. Then came tragedy. It stole more than Gideon’s home. He hasn’t cooked since.Until Eddie Tripp. Fun-loving and vivacious, the Norfolk redhead’s a real up-and-comer in Gideon’s kitchen—and other places. Slim where Gideon’s broad, easy-going where Gideon is growly, he and Gideon seem polar opposites, and yet Eddie conjures flavors that would tempt anyone with a taste for perfection. The sauce of love is already simmering, and this pair is about to dine on the most delicious dish they’ve ever prepared. Because Eddie’s been Gideon’s missing ingredient all along.

getBook.at/LoveYouSenseless

The murder of a shared friend leads a high-profile investigator and a psychic into a mystery involving lies, blackmail, BDSM—and into each other’s arms.

THE MEN OF LONDON

From Charing Cross to Waterloo, there’s no escaping love.

SEEING THROUGH…

28-year-old Draven Samuels has a tragic past, but as an investigator with a high-profile London company he now gets what he wants. Tough, sarcastic, and sceptical, he has no patience for lies and even less for people who waste his time. Even if they’re as beautiful as the wild and dark-haired Taylor Abelard. Especially when they’re talking over the body of a murder victim.

THE DARKNESS

Psychic Taylor Abelard is used to people calling him a freak. He can see past events and feel the ghostly vibrations of people close to him who’ve passed on. It’s why he doesn’t get too close to the living. But this time, against his better judgment, despite Draven’s mocking rejoinders, Taylor will get closer than ever before. The mystery of a dead friend will lead the two men down a dark and seedy trail of blackmail and lies. Add in the heartbreak of a family tragedy, and events lead them straight into each other’s arms. By the end of this night, all their demons will have risen—and been banished with the dawn.

getBook.at/SIGHTANDSINNERS

Susan Mac Nicol is a self confessed bookaholic, an avid watcher of videos of sexy pole dancing men, self confessed geek and nerd and in love with her Smartphone. This little treasure is called ‘the boyfriend’ by her long suffering husband, who says if it vibrated, there’d be no need for him. Susan hasn’t had the heart to tell him there’s an app for that…

She is never happier than when sitting in the confines of her living room/study/on a cold station platform scribbling down words and making two men fall in love. She is a romantic at heart and believes that everything happens (for the most part) for a reason. She likes to think of herself as a ‘half full’ kinda gal, although sometimes that philosophy is sorely tested.

Lover of walks in the forest, theatre productions, dabbling her toes in the cold North Sea and the vibrant city of London where you can experience all four seasons in a day , she is a hater of pantomime (so please don’t tar and feather her), duplicitous people, bigotry and self righteous idiots.

In an ideal world, Susan Mac Nicol would be Queen of England and banish all the bad people to the Never Never Lands of Wherever -Who Cares. As that’s never going to happen, she contents herself with writing her HEA stories and pretending, that just for a little while, good things happen to good

people.

www.susanmacnicol.com

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May 27, 2015 by Tina Williams

RELEASE BLITZ ~ Tin, by KS Thomas (includes excerpt, book trailer and giveaway)

TIN

AUTHOR: K.S. Thomas

GENRE: Contemporary Romance

PUBLICATION DATE: May 27, 2015

COVER DESIGN: Regina Wamba with Mae I Design

CONTENT WARNING: Adult content! (Language, situations…sex – yikes!)

Men and I are done. Whatever entertaining notions I enjoy while screwing around with the random guys that cross my path, are exactly that. Entertaining.

I don’t want more. I’m not capable of more. More would mean feeling. Would entail wanting. Desiring. And a slew of other emotions I haven’t experienced in over three years. And it’s not due to any stupid naïve intention of trying to keep my heart from breaking, nor is it as a result of having it broken by some poor slob who should have known better.

I can’t feel. I don’t have a heart. Period. And it’s going to take more than following some magic yellow brick road to get me a new one. Even if that road does lead straight to Riker ~The only soul on earth who’s as close to being dead as I am… and brings me as close to being alive as I’ll ever be.

It’s been a week. One whole goddamn week. Every day I tell myself she’ll turn up before the sun does. Then, when she doesn’t, I go to work, convinced I’ll find her here when I get back. I don’t know why I tell myself such bullshit. I’ve never been much for denial in the past. For some reason this time I just can’t get a fucking grip on things. I knew it could happen. Actually, I was pretty damn sure she would bolt as soon as I told her everything. I don’t even know why I knew that, other than she’s a creature of flight who lives in constant fear of being the cause of someone else’s pain.

Ironic, really. Considering how much she’s fucking hurting me by being gone. Only she can’t see that. Or maybe she does. I don’t know. I just know she believes staying will hurt me more than leaving. She’s fucked up in the head that way. Fucked up in the heart. Fucked up to her very core. And if I ever find the bastard who fucked her up, I’ll kill him.

Her flight for California departs in less than five days. I’m guessing Kirsten will show up on day six to collect all of the stuff Quinn couldn’t carry on foot when she left here in the middle of the night. I had half a mind to offer her a ride, but she seemed hell-bent on sneaking out, so eventually, I just faked sleep to make it easier on her. But it’s been a motherfucking week. And I’m done faking sleep and making shit easier for her. If she wants out, I’m going to make her tell me. To my face. And then I’m going to convince her she’s wrong.

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Unhurt ~ Lost Avalon ~ Save The Date

I Call Him Brady ~ Salty ~ Drive

Blood Bound ~ Lucky In Love ~ Getting Lucky

Country Girls ~ This Christmas ~ It’s Kinda My Thing

Secret Hudson ~ I Think About You ~ Bittersweet

Dog Lover who likes her pastries full of cream and sugar….oh…and I write some 😉

Aside from being an author, I am also a mom to a beautiful 5 year old little girl. I tell everyone I named her after my great-grandmother (because that’s the mature answer), but really, I named her after my favorite princess – just so happens I got lucky and they had the same name…If I wasn’t a writer, I would work on a horse ranch – I’m an animal lover (in addition to dogs, horses are at the top of my list). I wear flip-flops pretty much everywhere I go. I would rather stay awake until 5 am than get up at 5 am (years of bar tending have left their mark), if I can, I’m going to the beach AND I will always be nice to people who bring me chocolate…or coffee…if you bring me both, I’ll probably love you forever.A gypsy at heart, I write the way I live, following the story wherever it may lead, always ready to start the next one. This is clearly reflected in my body of work which to date includes everything from Children’s Lit to Thrillers.

I happily reside in sunny Florida (for now) and always enjoy hearing from fellow readers!!

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May 26, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Interviewing Wade (Executive Decisions #4), by Grace Marshall

Contemporary Romance

Sexy and Compelling!

Book Blurb

The Executive Decision Trilogy may be over, but the story continues in this addictively sexy fourth instalment by the best-selling Grace Marshall. Ambitious reporter Carla Flannery has been waiting to make her name – and when she gets the chance to interview Wade Crittenden, the mysterious genius behind Pneuma, Inc, she can’t believe her luck. However, Carla has made a lot of enemies in her work, and when Wade discovers she’s being stalked, he is determined to keep her safe, spurred on by his confusing feelings towards her. As situations turn deadly and dark secrets threaten to reveal themselves, lives and hearts are on the line as the interview starts to reveal far more about them than either ever expected …

Intense, Passionate and Suspenseful *****

Just wow! This is the first book that I have read by Grace Marshall and it is a downright sexy and compelling read, with an unlikely hero and a feisty heroine and plenty of suspense, which kept me on the edge of my seat.

The book, which can be read as a stand-alone, is the fourth instalment of the Executive Decisions Trilogy. I have not read the trilogy, but after reading this I am planning on rectifying this oversight very shortly!

There are just so many words to describe this read: fast-paced; intense; humorous; psychological; dark and sexy, to name just a few! I loved the characters of Wade and Carla and their journey as they open up to each other and work to avert the danger that Carla is in from her stalker.

Wade is at first glance one of the most unlikely heroes ever – the geek genius and recluse behind the success of the high tech security firm he works for – but hell, he is damn sexy! The heroine, Carla, a journalist, is determined to interview him, to reveal the man behind the mask and I really enjoyed how she gets right under his skin to secure her goal. The couple rub each other up the wrong way but the sexual tension and the chemistry between them is electrifying and there are plenty of hot scenes, some of which have some dark elements. I was enthralled throughout and eager to find out if Wade would open his heart and reveal his true self to Carla. The war he wages with himself: his desire to avoid close companionship versus the growing attraction between him and Carla, as he seeks to protect her from her stalker, is at the core of the novel.

Carla is a super heroine. She is brave and feisty and although she knows exactly what buttons to press to get Wade riled she also knows when to give him his space. Yet how can she cope with his mercurial behaviour, which sees him pull her towards him only to then reject her? Is he the right man for her? There is much to sort out in their relationship that is if Carla survives her stalker…. I was biting my nails at the end with fear and apprehension as the plot unfolded towards its gripping finale.

A must read for fans of romance and romantic suspense. I loved it!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note a copy of this novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

May 26, 2015 by Tina Williams

NEW RELEASE ~ Innocence (Innocence series #1), by Holly J. Gill, plus author interview and excerpt

Contemporary Romance

We are delighted to welcome Holly J Gill to our blog. Holly has just released Innocence, book 1 in a sweet contemporary romance series, and is sharing with us some information about the novel, including an excerpt. Holly has also agreed tell us a little about herself and share some of her experiences of being a writer. Scroll down to learn more about this heart felt romance and to read the interview. Tina and Caroline ❤

Thank you so much for hosting me on your site, wine and chocolates at the ready! I am delighted to be sharing the Innocence Series with you. I am truly excited by this contemporary sweet romance series being a different genre for me as I normally write erotica.

The series comes as:

Innocence

Innocence of Love

Breaking Innocence

Return To Innocence

Innocence Blurb

Book 1

Calvin Edwards has everything he could dream about— perfect lifestyle, running the family real-estate company back in London. He takes a holiday up north to visit his parents only to find a young pregnant woman attempting to take her life. Wishing to help, Calvin becomes a friend to her, only fears he’s out of his depth. Just when he thinks he can do this his past resurfaces, sending his life crashing.

Kacey is pregnant and her life is out of control with nowhere left to go. She descends on her mum for one last chance for help, only to have the door slammed in her face. At her wits end, she is alone, scared, and helpless until Calvin comes along. He becomes a dear friend giving her kindness, something she thought no longer existed in the world. Only she finds what she’d pushed to the back of her mind through selfish pain is back. Her past with all its mistakes has come back to life!

Excerpt: Calvin Edwards

“What the heck has she been telling you? Honestly, that girl wouldn’t know the word truth if it hit her in the face. She is after money, no doubt to take back to her drug dealing boyfriend.”

Calvin stepped forward needing to correct the evil woman. “She finished it, and she isn’t with him. Instead, she is scared and looking for someone to love her, but clearly the word ‘love’ means nothing to you. What mother,” he said, marching forward pointing his finger in her face, “would allow their daughter at her most vulnerable state to walk the streets, how can you not care? No shame? She is frightened and yet, she is the one holding the grudge with you…yet you have turned it onto her. She is broken, has no one and nowhere to go and yet you…you…” He gritted his teeth.

“Calvin,” he heard his mother’s voice from behind as she touched his left shoulder. “Step back.”

“No,” he growled. “She,” he said, pointing to Rosalind, “what she has done. I saved your daughter. I,” he said, thumping his chest, “I stopped your daughter from jumping off the bridge. I saved her. I was the one who coaxed her down,” he screamed.

Tears ran down his cheeks and could feel his mum holding onto his shoulder for comfort. He had to do it. He had to make her see how weak her daughter was and her mental state.

Rosalind widened her eyes, glaring at him.

“Yes, I saved her, I stopped her,” he said lowering his voice in heartache. “All she needed was someone to reach out to and help her take care of herself. She has nothing…nothing. You imagine feeling that lonely,” he said, glaring deep into her eyes through the tears.

“I have spent a few days listening to your daughter, trying to help her, guide her, get her the help she needs, but as my good friend keeps telling me! She isn’t my problem, but I have made her my problem. I want to help her, and no, it’s not just because she’s expecting your grandchild,” he snarled. Calvin didn’t want anyone assuming that, but they would, of course they would, and he’d be the first to admit when he saw her bump, he had to do what he could to get her down from the bridge.

“Calvin,” his mum muttered.

“No, Mum,” he said, turning his head to glare at her. He watched his mum gulp. “Even you would admit you were fooled into the real reason why she left the village.” He turned his head back to meet Rosalind’s eyes. “Weren’t we?”

Rosalind still looked gormless, frowning like she had no idea what he was talking about.

“Don’t you care your daughter was about to jump into the river and take her and the baby’s life?” he sneered.

She stared at him, shocked, like she had no idea what was going on with her daughter, puzzlement across her face and her eyes roamed all over the room, like the walls would give her answers.

“I’m sorry.”

He shuddered.

“Sorry! Is that all you can say. Sorry,” his voice rose. “Well, you’re saying it to the wrong person, but then why would you wish to waste your breath on your daughter, when she is the one who has disgraced you. I mean heaven forbid she would turn out to be the little angel you had wished for, but noooo, she had to get herself knocked up, didn’t she?” he roared.

Author Holly J. Gill

A wife and a mum to three grown up children, and lives in the UK. Holly J. Gill is a romance writer, her main genre being erotic, romance and has recently been exploring new channels, paranormal and contemporary. Holly has been writing since being a young girl, having characters talking to her, and longing to get their stories written. Finally, her dream came true two years ago, when getting her first contract with Secret Cravings Publishing for her Desires series. In Holly’s spare time she loves spending quality time with her family, seeing friends for lunches and sharing her new potential ideas for books. She enjoys listening to music, watching movies and travelling around England visiting the beautiful countryside.

Writing is where Holly’s heart is…

Where to find Holly

Facebook author page: Erotic Holly: Romance Holly: Twitter:

Google + Goodreads Pinterest Tsu

Where to find Holly’s books

SCP Amazon UK Amazon US Smashwords All Romance Barnes and Noble

Interview with Holly J. Gill

Hi Holly. Thank you for being with us today. Can you tell us a little about yourself?

I am a wife, mother to three grownups my youngest being 17 and I’m a nana to twins a girl and boy. I live in England in a town called Grimsby where I work during the day as a care assistant looking after clients with Dementia. I have been writing since the day I could pick up a pen, and written many stories over the years. It was 2007 I got my first signed contract from Secret Cravings Publishing for my erotic series Desires. In the last few recent years I have been switching genres having written paranormal and currently been writing sweet romance which is what Innocence is. Spare time, I love reading, listening to music, watching movies, spending time with my family, having tea and cakes with friends, and I adore camping with my husband touring the stunning countryside of England with the most idyllic and picturesque landscapes, stately homes and castles are also a must. I adore quiet, nothing better.

Please tell us about Innocence, your latest release and what inspired you to write it?

Gosh Innocence, it’s really kind of strange how I was inspired by the series. It all started with the novel I wrote previous to Innocence a spiritual fantasy, I adored the location and I just had to reuse it again. The main theme was the river Derwent that runs through the land let alone the hall that stands on the plot captured my heart, and after visiting the location and seeing how perfect and tranquil the area was it was a must. And before I could stop myself Innocence was being written.

How much research did you have to carry out for this book?

Lots of research for Innocence, spending hours making sure I got the information correct. I also used personal and my daughters experiences.

What is your writing process like? To what extent do you plan and how much do you just let the plot and the characters speak for themselves?

I never plot, I never make notes I just allow the characters to take over my mind and they lead me in their direction. What I do enjoy about my process is I might think the characters are taking me one way and then go in another direction.

Are any of the characters in your novels based on people you know?

These characters no, but its some of their experiences yes.

What is the best thing about being an author? What do you find the most challenging?

Losing myself in the characters the scenery, being there, vision, eyes, nose, ears and taste, taking myself from my troubles and escaping, only sometimes their adventures aren’t always that pleasant, and I feel my heart collapsing. The most challenging for me has to be when I’m being disturbed while in my writing cave, I like quiet, I like to hear the characters talking to me and feeding their story. Starting a book can be challenging making sure you entice the reader immediately; I have read so many books over the years where they just didn’t grab me and the book was soon placed down. Keeping the reader’s attention, making sure they remain drawn into the novel, give them cliff-hangers at the end of each chapter, keep the reader wanting to turn the vital page.

What type of books do you like to read? Have you any favourite authors?

I like romance with a touch of sauciness… I love Lily Harlem, she is just an amazing person and a fabulous writer of erotic fiction. At the moment I am enjoying J.M. Maurer series called ‘Emerging from Darkness’ I love her style of writing, and the way she has me gripped.

Can you tell us about what you working on at the moment?

At the moment I have been working on re-reads and edits on book 2 in the Innocence series called Innocence Of Love, coming out in September. I like to be ahead of schedule.

Have you any advice to give to aspiring authors?

Don’t give up! Write a little every day! Prepare yourself, with promoting, as my goodness it’s a hard industry to break.

And finally, have you a message for readers?

I just hope you all enjoy reading Innocence, and that it has the same effect on your hearts and souls as it did mine.

Thank you so much for giving up your time to answer these questions for us. We wish you best of luck with Innocence and your future work.

Tina and Caroline ❤

*****************************

May 23, 2015 by Tina Williams

COVER REVEAL ~ Baubles and Beads (A Copper River Romance) ~ includes excerpt

Della Street Jones is everyone’s ‘good little girl’ and is tired of the label. Munk Riley is the skinny little thief she shared her lunch with until the family left the Copper Basin. Riley, caught by the Jones family, is given a chance to redeem himself and earns a diesel mechanic certification. All Munk wants is to marry Della and have all the things denied him growing up the only child of an alcoholic mother.

Taking a job without telling her, causes a blow out between them. Embarrassed, Della takes a live-in position at a remote lodge. She finds something that causes her to send an SOS to her family to get her out. Munk will do anything to get her back where she belongs. But does Della belong where everyone else thinks she does? Can they get out without waking the man who controls the underbelly of Alaska?

A tiny little twitch upward at the corners of her mouth at that statement made him groan. “Just this once in my life I want to have something start right. I want it to go the way it’s supposed to. I want a preacher to say the words over us, then he’ll tell us to kiss and I can take you home and make love to my wife all night long.”

Letting go of her arms, Munk watched as she crossed both arms over her chest. “It’s because of your mother. That’s the reason you want to wait?”

Running both hands through his hair, he looked down at his shoes. “Partially, I guess. Ya, I’ve screwed other girls. I didn’t think I had a hope in hell of winding up with you. After I figured out there might be a chance, I haven’t been with another woman. I want it to be right. I want us to be shiny and bright like that bracelet is now, not like it’s going to be when it tarnishes.”

Her bare feet shuffled closer to him and Munk found his head pillowed against her chest. “I’m so sorry, love. I didn’t understand. We’ll do it your way. I don’t want you to ever feel that way again.”

Without thinking about it, his arms went around her. “What way?” he whispered.

“Like you don’t matter. Like you’re not good enough.” Long, delicate fingers combed through his hair. The scent of her rose into his nostrils and he was almost in heaven. “You are a good man and I love you, Munro Lowell Riley. I love everything about you. But, can we at least get married as soon as this miserable job is over? Please?”

Pulling slightly backward, he looked up to find her face turned toward him. “If you get out of this dive. If we go to Palmer on your day off, we can get the damn license and swear to God, the day after I’m away from here we can get married. You can stay in the cabin and set the whole thing up. Have it at the Great grans’ place. I don’t care who you invite, but the minute the ceremony is over, we’re gone.”

“But how are we going to get out of here? You don’t have your truck, do you?”

“I’ll get us out of here. Let me handle that. How about you tell me what brought this sex thing on? We’ve never had this come up before.”

Della held his head in both hands and kissed him sweetly on the lips, then the forehead, before tugging him against her chest. “I had a dream. I had to go take a shower after it was over.”

Breaking away from her, he stood and pushed her hair behind her ears. “You mean like a wet dream. You got hot for me?”

Cheeks flooding with color, Della nodded. “Yes. And I got tired of being everybody’s good little girl. I asked Sandy about it and she told me guys like blowjobs.”

The color in her cheeks deepened. “She said I was asking the wrong person ’cause she’s into girls. And Sandy said I was a hottie.”

“She didn’t do anything, did she?”

“No. She said she wasn’t a cheat and she has a partner at home. But she said a threesome might be fun.”

The look on Della’s face was so serious, Munk had a hard time holding in a laugh. “Okay, as long as she keeps her hands to herself, we’re good.”

Taking her wrists in his hands, Munk slowly backed Della toward the bed. “What did you do in the shower, Della? How did you fix it?”

Although born in New Orleans, I am proud to call myself an Alaskan. I have lived here since 1977. I have seen -40 degrees, hauled water, made bear bacon and I live in a cabin. I have used a fishwheel to catch salmon coming up the Copper River. I was my second husband’s chief mechanic’s helper and roadie. I have cut firewood on shares. I worked as a cocktail waitress during pipeline days in a small lodge on the Richardson Highway.

My second husband, a Scot from Glasgow, was the love of my life. When I write Scots dialect, I personally experienced hearing it from my in laws. When my husband got on the phone to Scotland, after 5 seconds I could barely understand a word.

We moved to Wasilla to get warm. It barely drops past -25 degrees here in the winter. I became a paralegal and worked for over 26 years for the same firm.

Alaska is my home. I never thought I would love it so much, I never want to leave. The beauty of Alaska is a draw I cannot resist. I love the people and the history. I have been captured by a place I came to under duress. Life does play some interesting tricks on one. My love and I were not apart more than 24 hours for 20 plus years. I never wanted to be anywhere but with him. He was a man to run the river with and was my biggest fan.

Next Saturday Cherime will be hosting a Release Party. There will be author takeovers, games, pics, prizes and much more. Join today and enjoy a taste of Alaska as much as Cherime does.

You can enter one of the giveaways now. Follow this link to find out how to win this gorgeous pendant.

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MoB Promos

magicofbookspromo@gmail.com

May 22, 2015 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW ~ Hold Me Until Midnight (Grayson Brothers, book 1), by Christina Phillips

Erotic Contemporary Romance – Coming 9th June!

18+/Adult Read

I was delighted to receive an ARC from the publishers and took great pleasure in reviewing Hold Me Until Midnight, the first book in Christina Phillips’ Grayson Brothers series. I just loved the chemistry between Jackson and Scarlett, the hero and heroine, and the book is a scorching and smexy start to the series! I’m so looking forward to reading about the other Grayson brothers and what is in store for them! Scroll down to read the blurb and review and connect with Christina. Tina ❤

Book Blurb

Scarlett Ashford needs a date for her father’s wedding. Only she doesn’t just need a guy in a suit—she needs a bodyguard. The only problem is that Jackson Grayson is big and gorgeous and way too sexy. So much so that Scarlett’s tempted to let this hot bad boy ruin her oh-so-good reputation…

Jackson doesn’t do relationships and he certainly doesn’t sleep with clients. Yet he can’t fight their inconvenient attraction, or how badly he wants Scarlett’s warm and wicked curves against his body. He wants her. Now. Even if it’s just for one night, and even if walking away the next morning isn’t as easy as he thought.

Besides, one hot and incredibly intense night between a bad boy and a pampered princess could never turn into something real…could it?

My Review *****

Another scorching erotic contemporary romance from Christina Phillips! I just loved reading about what happened when ‘bad boy’ Jackson and socialite Scarlett fall hard for each other.

In an attempt to ward off potential scheming and matchmaking from her stepmother-to-be, Scarlett hires the larger than life Jackson (major hottie alert!) from a security firm to masquerade as her date at her father’s wedding. Yet as soon as Jackson and Scarlett set eyes on each other sparks fly and passion ignites in an erotic romance that combines sexual tension and scorching scenes with a lot of heart. The inner dialogue of this couple and their ensuing banter as they circle around each other and try and hide their emotions is vastly entertaining and absolutely priceless!

Scarlett is basically a ‘good girl’ and hiring Jackson is the most daring thing she has ever done. She doesn’t do one night stands or even ‘friends with benefits.’ I loved the fact that meeting Jackson challenges all her preconceived ideas about what a good girl should do and it was hugely entertaining to watch her unravel…

Jackson, a man with a dark past, does not do relationships. Not only that but he and his brothers, who run a well-respected security firm, have a golden rule – never to compromise their professional relationship with a client. Yet how can Jackson reconcile this with the intsa-lust he feels for Scarlett, especially when it appears she feels the same? I was desperate to find out what happens when morning comes and whether bodyguard and client go their separate ways and into their very different worlds for good.

I, like Scarlett, immediately fell for Jackson’s considerable charms and enjoyed his brand of caring but dominant alpha male. Scarlett is sweet and sassy and his perfect match. There is plenty of character and plot development amidst the hot scenes as their lives begin to intertwine, the love stakes increase and barriers to a possible HEA appear.

To summarise: This is another fast-paced, romantic read from Christina Phillips with many sizzling scenes, ranging from cheeky to romantic and downright sexy. Recommended to readers of erotic romance who like a sweet and hot story of how two people from opposite sides of the tracks unexpectedly come together against all the odds!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the publishers via NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Buy Links

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Amazon US

Author Links

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May 21, 2015 by Caroline Barker

Review Round-Up – May ’15

Dear readers, Welcome to May’s Review Round-Up! We have plenty of romance reads for you, whether they be contemporary, historical, erotic or humour. Not to mention the paranormal fantasies and mysteries.

I have been a little quiet on the blog-front recently seeing my daughter through her SAT’s exams, and being busy with decorating the house. But, I have enjoyed Christine S. Feldman‘s hilarious romcom, Winging It, Jamie Drew‘s (aka Tim O’Rourke) November Lake: Teenage Detective books 1 & 2, and I am currently reading the amazing C.J. Pinard‘s dark paranormal, SOUL REDEMPTION (Rebel Riders #2)! Meanwhile, Tina has been busy at the Vestry with settlement papers and writing some text for the Staffordshire Archives Roadshow which will take place at Tamworth Library on 4th July. She has also been involved in proposals for Tamworth Literature Festival, in which we are both hoping to be a part of. All this at the same time as reviewing some great romances, from Skye Warren‘s Loving the Beast, to Lily Harlem’s Toy Boy, and erotic sci-fi time travel series When in Rome by Jessica Nyman. How does she find the time to make rhubarb wine too?!

We hope that you enjoy the selection of books, as well as the reviews we provide. As always, please click on the book titles and author for our main feature review plus more….

We hope that you have a super Bank Holiday weekend 🙂

Caroline & Tina ❤

Pose 1 Pose for a Billionaire (Billionaire Encounter books 1-3) by Lucee Lovett, contemporary erotic romance (reviewed by Tina Williams)

Books 1-3 comprise of ‘When the Rent is Due, What Do You Do?‘, ‘There’s No Room for Mistakes, When You…‘ and ‘Secrets and Lies & Everything in Between‘.

Blurb (book 1): What choice does a young girl have, when she’s a twenty-two year old high school dropout? She has a deadbeat dad who has run off with his latest whore. Then her mother gets locked up for dealing drugs, leaving her with an eight-year-old to care for. Now, the rent is due and Mia Blackman, has no job, no money and very few options. She is forced to use the only asset she has when she poses for enigmatic, enticing, billionaire, Roman Evans. This changes Mia’s life in more ways than one.

November Lake: Teenage Detective (The November Lake Mysteries books 1 & 2) by Jamie Drew, YA crime/mystery (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb (book 1): When 18-year-old police recruit, November Lake, joins training college, her curiosity and desire to solve mysteries soon has her investigating a series of creepy and chilling crimes.

With the help of her friend and colleague, Kale Creed, November is soon caught up in a dark world of strange and inexplicable mysteries, each with a deadly twist.

Three novella length mysteries in one book:

The Dead Girl In The Room

The Kidnapping at Blackwater Farm

The Menacing Stranger

Blurb (book 2): When police recruits November Lake and Kale Creed are ordered to stay away from each other by Sergeant Black, they can’t help but be drawn back together again.

Working side by side, November and Kale solve four more grisly and chilling mysteries. The first deals with deceit, the second betrayal, the third revenge and the fourth the greatest mystery of all – love.

Four novella length mysteries in one book:

The Reappearing Knife

The Death at Hook Inn

Splitfoot & The Dead Girl

The Mystery of November Lake & Kale Creed

Wherewolves by John Vamvas & Olga Montes, YA horror/thriller/paranormal (reviewed by Caroline)

Synopsis: Using a fun, explosive style, full of new slang and fresh dialogue, WHEREWOLVES is the story of a group of high school seniors, most “military brats”, who are headed for an army-type survival weekend.

The underdogs, Jeffrey and Doris, do not want to go as they fear for their safety among the disdain and cruelty of the popular students. Sergeant Tim O’Sullivan, their teacher, as well as their dysfunctional parents pressure them into going, but it is an unforgivable act by their peers that propels the pair to go. Likewise, Elie, a student resented because of his Arab roots, is even more determined to prove himself this weekend. In the background, a news report cautions of a wanted couple with alleged super-human strength supposedly brought on by a new drug on the streets.

In the woods, the students hike, hunt, camp, and soon act in unity as the forest brings them closer together. But does it? O’Sullivan leaves them alone for the night. The students bond, chant, tell campfire tales, and quickly lose their fears and inhibitions. HOO-AH! Though sexual tensions are high, it soon turns to violence and everything quickly turns sour.

When the kids start disappearing one after the other, the remaining begin to unwittingly “act like the natives” carving spears, ready to face whatever is out there. What has gotten into them?

Amid blood-curdling growls and gruesome deaths, the story’s underlying layers are revealed. We see how misconceptions, prejudice, greed, fear, and hatred bring out the worst and best in them.

WHEREWOLVES is a thought-provoking, intense, action-packed ride loaded with plot twists that will keep you guessing:

What is out there? Can it really be werewolves?

Under the Mayhaw Tree by Charlotte Boyett-Compo, contemporary romance suspense (reviewed by Tina)

Keynote:

Living under a cloud of tragedy for which he’s assumed blame, Drew Dunne has known hell for the past sixteen years. Then he meets Allison Bennett. But in the small town of Colquitt, Georgia, evil lurks around every corner and capturing happiness has an incredibly high price.

Synopsis:

SWEET VICTORY

Small-town football star Drew Dunne sacrificed everything for friendship and guilt. He’s spent most of his life unloved and unwanted. A kind touch, a gentle smile, an encouraging word are all wisps of memory from before the accident. For him there is only family, duty, loyalty. And longing. Until he meets Allison.When Allison Bennett looks in the mirror, she sees a woman whose life has gone from bad to worse. At the mercy of an abusive husband, sweet tenderness is something she can only dream about…until she finds it in the arms of Drew Dunne.Not every sacrifice is worthwhile, not every promise is worth keeping, and events in a small Georgia town will test this pair to the very depths of their souls, but at the end of the journey is the truth that—if you’re willing to pay the price—true love can conquer all. Drew Dunne will finally be with the woman he loves. Or die trying.

When in Rome (An Unexpected Vacation & The Emperor’s Dungeon, books 1 & 2) by Jessica Nyman, erotic sci-fi fantasy (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb (An Unexpected Vacation, #1): A young and geeky college girl wins a trip to Rome and while visiting the ancient ruins, she gets transported two thousand years back by a mysterious magic artifact. She is immediately seized by the city guards and brought before the most notorious emperor Rome had ever known. She’s in for a big surprise and some hot, steamy, action beyond her wildest dreams.

When In Rome Vol 1: An Unexpected Vacation is the first part of an erotic romance serial short stories exploring the lifestyle of ancient Rome from the eyes of a twenty first century college girl. Approximately 7000 words.

Blurb (The Emperor’s Dungeon, #2): Our heroine meets a mysterious witch who agrees to help her go back to ancient Rome. However the locket’s magic effects last for a limited time and she comes back to the 21st century when it expires. Will she be able to solve the mystery of the locket and stay in ancient Rome for good? Will she break and tell her secret when the emperor ties her up in heavy chains and ‘interrogates’ her in the dungeon?

When In Rome Vol 2: The Emperor’s Dungeon is the second part of an erotic romance serial short stories exploring ancient Rome from the eyes of a twenty first century college girl. Approximately 5000 words.

Loving the Beast: A Beauty Epilogue by Skye Warren, erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: The sexy journey began in Beauty Touched the Beast and continued in the Beauty series. Now read the breathtaking conclusion in this epilogue novella…

Since their forbidden beginning, Erin and Blake’s relationship has been marked by deep sensuality and intense emotion. Each challenge only makes them stronger, and Blake is ready to take his new fiancee to meet his family.

Home holds secrets for them both. A dark legacy threatens everything they’ve worked to build. When old debt comes between them, both Blake and Erin must fight to protect each other–and their love.

Books in the Beauty series:
1. Beauty Touched the Beast
2. Beneath the Beauty
3. Broken Beauty
4. Beauty Becomes You

And now the sexy ever after… Loving the Beast: A Beauty Epilogue

Third Debt (Indebted #4) by Pepper Winters, dark erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: “She healed me. She broke me. I set her free. But we are in this together. We will end this together. The rules of this ancient game can’t be broken.”

Nila Weaver no longer recognises herself. She’s left her lover, her courage, and her promise. Two debts down. Too many to go.

Jethro Hawk no longer recognises himself. He’s embraced what he always ran from, and now faces punishment far greater than he feared.

It’s almost time. It’s demanding to be paid.

The Third Debt will be the ultimate test…

To Tame the Wind (Prequel to Agents of the Crown Trilogy, #1) by Regan Walker, historical romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Paris 1782… AN INNOCENT IS TAKEN

All Claire Donet knew was the world inside the convent walls in Saint-Denis. She had no idea her beloved papa was a pirate. But when he seized Simon Powell’s schooner, the English privateer decided to take the one thing his enemy held most dear.… her.

A BATTLE IS JOINED

The waters between France and England roil with the clashes of Claire’s father and her captor as the last year of the American Revolution rages on the sea, spies lurk in Paris and Claire’s passion for the English captain rises.This is the prequel to the Agents of the Crown trilogy but can be read as a stand alone.

The Duke’s Bedeviled Bride (Royal Pains #2) by Nina Mason, erotic historical romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: The tawdry tale of the Duke and Duchess of Dunwoody continues…

Maggie Armstrong, the long-lost illegitimate daughter of the heir presumptive to the throne, is bedeviled by her husband’s limited definition of fidelity. After observing him in a ménage à trois at the court of King Charles II, she is determined to bring him around to her way of thinking—by any means necessary. Robert doesn’t mind being punished for his transgressions. Rather, he enjoys being whipped, especially by his beloved bride. Unfortunately, her heart might not belong to him alone. His younger brother, who he’d sent abroad to clear the way for himself, is coming home sooner than expected, and Maggie’s feelings for Hugh may not be as dead as her husband had hoped.Both duke and duchess soon learn, to their peril, Hugh Armstrong is not the honorable man they’d been led to believe. Insanely jealous of his brother’s situation, Hugh will stop at nothing to strip Robert of all he holds dear—including his life.But the real danger for Robert and Maggie is not the villainous Marquess, but the growing friction betwixt Catholics and Protestants in Restoration Era Great Britain.Can their love survive the trials that await them?

Toy Boy by Lily Harlem, erotic cougar romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Getting something unexpected can be a shock, but it can also be a wonderful treat, if you allow yourself to indulge, that is.

Kay is bubbling with excitement. She’s booked a sailing holiday of a lifetime in Greece with a man she’s fallen for hook, line and sinker. They met on the Internet. She’s from Oxford, he’s from Washington State. She’s a business lecturer, he runs his own successful business.

They’re perfect for each other, and she can’t wait to meet him and spend time in and out of his bed, allowing him to seduce her for real and not just with softly spoken words over the telephone.

But when she arrives in the idyllic port of Fiscardo, she’s in for a shock. There’s a reason Sullivan’s photographs were grainy, and it’s not because he’s sporting a potbelly or balding as she’d suspected. It’s because he’s over a decade younger than her and could rival any Greek god in the looks department. What’s more, his sex appeal and lust for her is off the scale.

Should Kay take what she can with her ‘toy boy’ and have some fun in the sun or hop on the first plane back to England? It’s a tricky decision for a woman who believed she couldn’t be surprised by life anymore.

Werewolves of Shade (Beautiful Immortals #5) by Tim O’Rourke, paranormal fantasy (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: From Tim O’Rourke #1 bestselling author of ‘The Kiera Hudson Series’ comes ‘Werewolves of Shade’ a werewolf romance with a twist.

When the entire population of Shade go missing, investigative reporter Mila Watson knows this could be the big break she has been waiting for. Setting off into the mountains to the village of Shade, Mila soon learns that the village isn’t as deserted as she first believed it to be and that creatures lurk in the shades…

‘Werewolves of Shade’ (Part Five)

Note: This ends in a cliff-hanger. Part six will be published within the next few weeks.

For readers 16+

The Girl In Between (The Girl In Between #1) by Laekan Zea Kemp, YA/NA+ up paranormal fantasy (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Bryn Reyes is a real life sleeping beauty. Afflicted with Klein-Levin Syndrome, she suffers episodes of prolonged sleep that steal weeks, and sometimes even months, from her life. But unlike most KLS patients, she doesn’t spend each episode in a catatonic state or wake up with no recollection of the time she’s missed. Instead, Bryn spends half her life in an alternate reality made up of her memories. For Bryn, the past is a place, until one day a boy she’s never met before washes up on the illusory beach of her dreams with no memory of who he is.

But the appearance of this strange boy isn’t the only thing that’s changed. Bryn’s symptoms are worsening, her body weakening as she’s plagued by hallucinations even while awake. Her only hope of finding a cure is to undergo experimental treatment created by a German specialist. But when Dr. Banz reveals that he knows more about her strange symptoms than he originally let on, Bryn learns that the boy in her head might actually be the key to understanding what’s happening to her, and worse, that if she doesn’t find out his identity before it’s too late, they both may not survive.

Winging It (short story) by Christine S. Feldman, comedy/humour, contemporary romance (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Up until now, straitlaced Simon Kirkendale has done an admirable job of keeping his high society mother’s demands for grandbabies at bay, but lately she’s kicked things into high gear. So he isn’t too disappointed to delay her latest matchmaking attempt when a pretty stranger hops into the backseat of his car en route to one of his mother’s dinner parties and tells him to drive. A car-jacking? Nope. More like a bird on the run, but this particular bird happens to be a parrot who has slipped its cage, and Simon’s new acquaintance desperately needs to get it back before she loses sight of it altogether.

Ever the nice guy—and okay, maybe also a little intrigued by the colorful Miss Juleen Pruitt’s sudden appearance in his car—Simon hits the gas pedal and obliges only to find himself unwittingly dragged into a wild goose chase around town for a bird who seems to be determined to either get itself killed or the two people trying to catch it. Simon’s money is on the latter.

But it turns out that a little disruption and chaos in his life might just be what Simon needs most—especially if it comes in the form of Juleen.

If he can just manage to survive meeting her…

May 20, 2015 by Caroline Barker

Release-day Review Winging It (short story) by Christine S. Feldman

Released today is a fantastic, short read by Christine S. Feldman (Heavenly Bites novellas)! If you’re looking for a quirky, fun read to put a smile on your face and make you laugh out loud, then you’ll love Winging It. It is certainly a memorable read!

Title: Winging It

Author: Christine S. Feldman

Genre: Comedy/humour, contemporary romance

Date released: May 20th, 2015

Length: 63 pages

But it turns out that a little disruption and chaos in his life might just be what Simon needs most—especially if it comes in the form of Juleen.

If he can just manage to survive meeting her…

REVIEW

Christine S. Feldman’s ‘Winging It’ is everything it is cracked up to be. A short contemporary that leaves the reader smiling after providing fun, quirkiness, and excitement, not to mention the romance! I found myself laughing at certain scenes between the main characters, Simon and Juleen, as the author tells of their escapades in trying to capture Juleen’s grandfather’s parrot, Frankie!

This fast-paced, light-hearted story is extremely refreshing and original. The reader will love the unpredictable run of events as Simon and Juleen try to chase down Frankie in Simon’s car after Juleen jumps in and asks unknown Simon to put his foot down, and then later on foot as they race through a park after a bird in flight.

It is due to Simon’s chivalry and good-mannered upbringing that he goes along with Juleen and tries to help once he finds out the exact true nature of her ‘carjacking’. Only, after being bored with his mother’s vision of what his future bride should be like, he becomes fascinated with Juleen, and her quirkiness. After all, she is interesting and has some energy about her that is different.

Juleen is the chaos in the ever-so-organised life of Simon. His routine leans on the tedious side of the fence, whilst Juleen appears wild and free spirited. Opposites attract in this exciting, little read. And Simon can’t help but be drawn to her.

However, in the back of his mind he knows that his mother is expecting him to turn up for dinner and hoping to entertain a blind date with a woman of her choosing. His good manners and courtesy, not to mention the guilt trip his mother plays on him, all add up and make him feel obliged to meet this latest blind date. Will he be amazed and fall for his date, or is Juleen still playing on his mind?

If you’re looking for an uplifting, laugh-out-loud fast read Winging It is definitely for you! It really stands out from many other rom-com reads in a very punchy and vibrant way. And, it will leave you wanting more!

An ARC copy was provided by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Winging It by Christine S. Feldman is available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

You can find our review of Christine S. Feldman’s festive novella Pastels & Jingle Bells (a Heavenly Bites novella #1) on our blog by clicking on the title. We will also be reviewing the author’s All’s Fair in Love and Weddings very soon too!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

May 20, 2015 by Caroline Barker

Cover Reveal Blitz Coffee Is Murder (McKinley Mystery Series, ep 9) by Carolyn Arnold

Title: Coffee is Murder (Episode 9 of the McKinley Mystery Series)

Author: Carolyn Arnold

Genre: Cozy mystery, private investigator

Release date: May 27th, 2015

Length: 155 pages

Blurb: A cup a day won’t kill you, but a few might.

Their first case as private investigators have Sean, Sara, and Jimmy neck-deep in coffee beans trying to find a killer. With their client certain that her mother was poisoned through her coffee of the month club, it has them setting out to Williamsburg, Virginia. But instead of approaching matters from the traditional standpoint, Sean and Sara brew a robust plot and stir Jimmy into the blend, all to get close to their top suspect and grind out the truth.

Going undercover at Tasty Beans, the coffee company, the three of them work to expose the culprit before anyone else dies.

Available from:

Amazon: http://ow.ly/JIUWj

Amazon UK: http://ow.ly/JIWE1

Barnes & Noble: http://ow.ly/JJcvw

iTunes: http://ow.ly/JIV9C

Kobo: http://ow.ly/JIV5m

THE MCKINLEY MYSTERY SERIES ventures outside of the typical crime genre, lending itself to the cozy variety with no foul language or graphic violence. The series combines romance, mystery, humor, and adventure for a lighthearted, easy read. Each episode is a standalone read, meaning it’s not necessary to have read previous instalments.

About the author:

CAROLYN ARNOLD is the international bestselling and award-winning author of the Madison Knight, Brandon Fisher, and McKinley Mystery series. She is the only author, in her genre, with POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT.^TM

Carolyn was born in a small town, but that doesn’t keep her from dreaming big. And on par with her large dreams is her overactive imagination that conjures up killers and cases to solve. She currently lives in a city near Toronto with her husband and two beagles, Max and Chelsea. She is also a member of Crime Writers of Canada.

Website: https://carolynarnold.net

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Carolyn_Arnold

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolynArnold

Excerpt

Chapter 1

A Moment of Appreciation

FOR SARA, COFFEE WAS ONE of life’s greatest—and simplest—pleasures. Every time she took a draw of freshly brewed java, her eyelids automatically lowered in appreciation of the robust flavor. Somehow, when drinking it, life seemed less complicated, or maybe it was just how it coated the palate and calmed her nerves despite what some scientific studies might say.

She was in her home office, seated behind her desk, staring at the blinking cursor on her monitor, but it wasn’t because she had writer’s block. Her wrists needed a break. Better yet, she needed to indulge in this cup.

Leaning back in her chair, she swiveled from side to side and closed her eyes, savoring the aroma of the dark beans. While they were ground at the time she pressed the button, the only way to get it any fresher was picking the beans off the plants in Brazil. With their money, she supposed it was an option.

She let herself get caught up with the thought. It might not be a bad idea. As her daydreaming grew in scale, she laughed. She wasn’t going to board a plane to South America for a cup of coffee, even though it might be the best she’d ever had. She wasn’t that obsessed—was she?

Sean knocked, but entered without awaiting a reply. He held on to a glass of orange juice and she admired his self-restraint. For some reason, his body required only one coffee a day when he first woke up. Otherwise, he moved on to juice or water.

If Sean had his way, Sara would drink only one, but coffee was a habit she wasn’t willing to break. Maybe she was an addict, although, that word carried such a negative connotation. She wasn’t an alcoholic simply because she enjoyed an evening beverage, so her coffee indulgence shouldn’t be considered an addiction. Even her thoughts betrayed her. Indulgence.

“Good morning, darling.” Sean kissed her forehead and then her lips. “I hope I’m not interrupting.” He glanced at the screen. “I guess I’m not.”

She smirked at him, realizing only a chapter number was showing. “I’m just taking a small break. I can’t always be typing, you know. I’m not a machine.”

“The way you’ve been holed up in here lately, I’m starting to wonder.”

She pouted. “Are you feeling lonely?”

“A little bit like a writer’s widower actually.”

“Well, let me make it up to you.” She stood, cupped his face with her hands, and kissed his mouth.

When they parted, any pleasure she derived from the coffee had diluted. It was replaced by the need to hold her husband.

“Hmm. Not bad,” he said.

“Excuse me?”

“You have coffee breath. I have orange juice breath. Still, the kiss, not bad.”

She narrowed her eyes and was about to say something when the phone on her desk rang.

Sean answered. “Hello…yes, Helen…all right, make the appointment for two hours from now.”

As she listened to her husband speak, she had a good idea what this was about. There was a job.