Welcome to the book blitz for I USED TO BE FUN, a standalone adult contemporary/women’s fiction novel, by Melanie Summers. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis
“Insightful, entertaining, and satisfying. A deliciously dishy look at a typical American family behind closed doors.” ~ USA Today Bestseller Whitney Dineen
“A life-affirming emotional rollercoaster. Perfect for fans of Where’d You Go, Bernadette!” ~ USA Today Bestseller Kate O’KeeffeA richly satisfying family dramedy for any woman who has asked, “Whose life is this?”
Jessica Holloway is miserable. As mom to two ungrateful, almost-grown children and wife to one appreciative-but-needy husband, she has all-but-abandoned the extraordinary—and extraordinarily fun—woman she used to be.
She may be smiling while she volunteers at the school’s dog wash fundraiser, but inside, she’s seething. Having traded her future as a high-powered attorney for motherhood nearly two decades ago, she’s now desperate to reconnect with the woman she once was.
Pushed to her breaking point, Jessica is secretly terrified at what she might do.
Go on strike permanently?
Take the dog and run away to Mexico?
Tell her mother-in-law what she really thinks of her?
Whatever it is, it’s going to be a disaster. Because this time, Jessica will stop at nothing to get her power back – no matter the cost.
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Excerpt #1 She was bored. No, not bored. How can someone so busy be bored? It was more like disconnected—slightly separated from everything and everyone around her. She didn’t see the point of any of it, which seemed ridiculous because on paper, Jess had it all. A healthy, mostly-happy family, a part-time job she didn’t mind going to, financial security, good friends. It was enough that she felt guilty wanting anything more. But that didn’t change the fact that she did want more. She wanted to live. Some other life. One that amazed her or, more accurately, one in which she was amazing. Before she was Jessica Halloway, she was Jessica Saunders. And Jessica Saunders was supposed to be extraordinary. She was going to do something important in this world, like run a Fortune 500 company or be a high-powered attorney. She’d be out in the world making her mark and people would say, ‘There goes Jessica Saunders. Look at her. So determined and talented, not to mention dressed to kill.’ Jessica Saunders had actually settled on going to law school, and had even scored in the top five percent in the country on her LSAT. But then she got married and she and Mike decided he should focus on his career first, since he already had his degree and only needed to sit for the exams to get his Chartered Professional Accountant designation. But then Winnie came along, followed by Noah, and pretty soon, she’d forgotten all about picking up her studies where she’d left off.
That had happened so long ago, she completely forgot that she used to be thrilled by it all. Jess Saunders was one of those enthusiastic, take-life-by-the-horns sort of girls. The life of the party. She’d dance all night, she’d laugh all day. She was witty. Smart. Great at banter. People were drawn to her. She loved everything. Impromptu trip to Mexico? I’ll grab my passport. Sex? Yes, please. Plenty of it. Mountain mud pie with caramel sauce for dessert? Hand me a fork.
Jess missed her. She really, really frigging missed her. She knew that impressive young woman was buried somewhere inside her. She must be there, right? So, where was she?
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Author Melanie Summers
About the Author Melanie Summers also writes steamy romance as MJ Summers.
Melanie made a name for herself with her debut novel, Break in Two, a contemporary romance that cracked the Top 10 Paid on Amazon in both the UK and Canada, and the top 50 Paid in the USA. Her highly acclaimed Full Hearts Series was picked up by both Piatkus Entice (a division of Hachette UK) and HarperCollins Canada. Her first three books have been translated into Czech and Slovak by EuroMedia. Since 2013, she has written and published three novellas, and eight novels (of which seven have been published). She has sold over a quarter of a million books around the globe.
In her previous life (i.e. before having children), Melanie got her Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta, then went on to work in the soul-sucking customer service industry for a large cellular network provider that shall remain nameless (unless you write her personally – then she’ll dish). On her days off, she took courses and studied to become a Chartered Mediator. That designation landed her a job at the R.C.M.P. as the Alternative Dispute Resolution Coordinator for ‘K’ Division. Having had enough of mediating arguments between gun-toting police officers, she decided it was much safer to have children so she could continue her study of conflict in a weapon-free environment (and one which doesn’t require makeup and/or nylons).
Melanie resides in Edmonton with her husband, three young children, and their adorable but neurotic one-eyed dog. When she’s not writing novels, Melanie loves reading (obviously), snuggling up on the couch with her family for movie night (which would not be complete without lots of popcorn and milkshakes), and long walks in the woods near her house. She also spends a lot more time thinking about doing yoga than actually doing yoga, which is why most of her photos are taken ‘from above’. She also loves shutting down restaurants with her girlfriends. Well, not literally shutting them down, like calling the health inspector or something–more like just staying until they turn the lights off.
She is represented by Suzanne Brandreth of The Cooke Agency International.
Welcome to the book blitz for THE SHADOW OF THE APENNINES, a standalone adult contemporary/historical women’s fiction by Kimberly Sullivan. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis An American divorcée. An Italian shepherdess. Separated by a century, united by common dreams.
The sleepy little Abruzzo mountain town of Marsicano seems about as far as Samantha can flee from her failed marriage and disastrous university career. Eager for a fresh start, Samantha begins to set down roots in her Italian mountain hideaway.
At first, the mountain retreat appears idyllic, but an outsider’s clumsy attempts at breaking into the closed mountain community are quickly thwarted when the residents discover Samantha’s snarky blog ridiculing the town and its inhabitants.
Increasingly isolated in her mountain cottage, Samantha discovers the letters and diaries of Elena, a past tenant and a survivor of the 1915 Pescina earthquake. Despite the century that separates the two women, Samantha feels increasingly drawn into Elena’s life, and discovers startling parallels with her own.
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Excerpt #2 LOOKING BACK to when I bought this house, I realize that I was bamboozled by the weather. I should have known better. A fool and her money are easily parted.
It was the kind of day real estate agents would trade their eyeteeth for. The air was still crisp, but the sun shone warmly, laden with promise for the long, lovely days beckoning just around the corner. Snow still capped the mountaintops, yet the grass was green and lush.
We approached a front yard, and I could see the wildflowers sprouting around the edges, forming sporadic beds of color against the imposing grey stone of the house.
Lost in my reveries, I forgot all about the agent beside me. She smiled as she switched off the engine. “Here we are. The lovely little cottage I told you about.”
“A drafty little money pit, to be sure,” said Tom from the backseat, a wide smile carefully plastered on his face as he spoke the words.
I started to regret having invited him along. Worried about understanding everything in Italian, and even more terrified about not understanding the local dialect, I’d asked Tom to join me on my house hunting. Now I was ready to strangle him.
To be fair, Tom had been honest from the outset about his lack of enthusiasm for my plans to purchase property in Abruzzo. He made those views abundantly clear on each house tour. Since the agent didn’t understand a word of English, he masked his caustic comments with a ridiculous smile. The routine was becoming old.
With the benefit of hindsight, perhaps I should have heeded Tom’s warnings. Back then, however, I was in no mood to entertain his negative thoughts. I summarily ignored Tom’s comments, instead concentrating my full attention on the little cottage from the passenger window. I unlocked the door and stepped out, breathing in the invigorating mountain air, the earthy smell of soil and grass freed from winter hibernation under thick layers of snow.
Now I see it was all staged. The agent gave me just enough time to drink in the idyllic scene as she fumbled slowly for the keys in her purse. Timing was crucial. Standing before the old stone house, its cool grey exterior bathed in bright sunlight, I began to imagine it as my own. I envisioned my new life within those walls.
I imagined the garden I would plant, and lounging in a hammock tied between two ancient oaks. I fantasized about finally finishing that book I’d never completed. How could I not be inspired, with the majestic views of the mountains all around?
I wondered who’d lived in the cottage before. Had children played in its big yard? The cottage was set slightly apart from the town, but an easy walk in. That isolation could mean it was particularly cold in the winter. I made a note to examine the heating system and fireplaces within its thick walls.
The agent and Tom stood at the gate as I walked around the entire cottage. Fruit trees were scattered out back. A lovely little garden appeared to have been untended for quite some time. A large table would be perfect there, a spot for gathering with new friends or working.
The cottage was simple, but solid. Like all houses up high in the Apennine Mountains, the windows were small, the walls thick. I’d heard complaints that newer constructions were built cheaply, with thin walls, while these older homes were built to withstand the harsh mountain climate.
Returning to the front of the house where Tom and the agent waited for me, I paused. Scattered white dots punctuated the ankle-high grass. Narcissus flowers. Six delicate white petals surrounded yellow pistils rimmed in a narrow edge of bright pink; its arching stem lent elegance to the dainty bloom.
I knelt down to smell the sweet nectar of the flower, the perfect little wild flower—the metamorphosis of the vain Narcissus, who was unable to part with his handsome reflection in the pond. I spared a thought for poor Echo, who pined away until only her voice remained, after she was unable to win Narcissus’ love.
Had I been much better when Michael’s indifference toward me was laid plainly at my feet? Hadn’t I pined away, hoping for his return? When I think back to the humiliation I endured in my useless attempts to win him back, I cringe with shame.
I looked with fresh eyes on the sun-drenched cottage so far removed from my former life, at the lawn scattered with the symbol of unrequited love. This must be a sign. Perhaps this was the place where I was meant to construct my new life.
I returned to the front yard walkway. The agent smiled at me, holding out the key that caught a glint of sunlight and appeared to burst into a glow of light. Another sign, surely?
“Signora Samantha,” she said, her tongue losing its battle with the difficult “th.” “Shall we look inside?”
The tour was irrelevant. My mind was made up.
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Author Kimberly Sullivan
About the Author Kimberly grew up in the suburbs of Boston and in Saratoga Springs, New York, although she now calls the Harlem neighborhood of New York City home when she’s back in the US. She studied political science and history at Cornell University and earned her MBA, with a concentration in strategy and marketing, from Bocconi University in Milan.
Afflicted with a severe case of Wanderlust, she worked in journalism and government in the US, Czech Republic and Austria, before settling down in Rome, where she works in international development, and writes fiction any chance she gets.
She is a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) and The Historical Novel Society and has published several short stories and two novels: Three Coins and Dark Blue Waves.
After years spent living in Italy with her Italian husband and sons, she’s fluent in speaking with her hands, and she loves setting her stories in her beautiful, adoptive country.
LOVE YOU S’MORE (The Campfire Series #3) by Beth Merlin
Synopsis Having successfully designed the wedding gown of the century, Gigi Goldstein is on top of the world – that is until it all suddenly comes crashing down around her. When the paparazzi captures her and Perry Gillman in a compromising moment the night of the royal wedding, she finds herself entangled in a scandal of global proportion. Convinced her carelessness has ruined every relationship in her life, she’s surprised and moved by her boyfriend, Gideon’s, sudden proposal of marriage and accepts it without a second thought.
Four months later, Gigi’s living at Badgley Hall contemplating an entirely new kind of life, while guilt, regret, and obligation keep calling her back to her old one. Will Gigi stay in South Gloucestershire, marry Gideon, and become the Countess of Harronsby?
Or, will unfinished opportunities and an old flame bring her back across the pond to confront her past and reclaim her future?
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My Review This is the final book in The Campfire Series, and it wraps up Gigi and Perry’s story with a heartfelt bow. Author Beth Merlin brings her dynamic characters back for a final performance, and it’s well worth the wait. After the royal wedding blew up in spectacular fashion, Gigi has retreated to Badgley Hall with Gideon to escape the limelight and regroup. But she soon realizes she doesn’t really fit in Gideon’s world either. As tabloid fodder, she doesn’t feel at home in English society and Gideon’s friends aren’t making things any easier. The longer she practices to be the future Countess of Harronsby, the more she misses designing. It’s in her blood, after all. Gigi has some tough choices to make once again, and this time, it’ll be harder than ever.
Plot The plot moves along at the perfect pace, with plenty of unexpected twists. Because this is Perry and Gigi’s story, I might have known loosely how it would end, but not how it would get us there, and that was the most fun of all. Once again, the author does a masterful job of providing detailed descriptions, bringing her world to full, colorful life.
Characters All of our favorites return, but the addition of some fun, new characters only adds to the vivacity of the cast. Merlin is a master at creating fully fleshed out characters that are people you’d love to hang out with. Even though they inhabit a world none of us could ever hope to be a part of, they remain down-to-earth and relatable in the best possible ways.
What I Loved About LOVE YOU S’MORE 1. Fashion. Once again, we’re deep in the fashion world with vivid descriptions that make the couture jump off the pages.
2. Jamie and Thom. Now the dads to twins, these two got their HEA, and it’s so satisfying.
3. Gigi. She’s more poised now than ever before. She knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it.
4. Perry. He’s the same McDreamy-esque guy both Gigi and I fell in love with way back at Camp Chinooka.
5. Ending. A perfect wrap up to one of the best escape-read series I’ve enjoyed in a long time.
About the Author Beth Merlin has a BA from The George Washington University where she minored in Creative Writing and a JD from New York Law School. She’s a native New Yorker who loves anything Broadway, rom-coms, her daughter Hadley, and a good maxi dress. She was introduced to her husband through a friend she met at sleepaway camp and considers the eight summers she spent there to be some of the most formative of her life. One S’more Summer is Beth’s debut novel.
Welcome to the book blitz for ACCIDENTALLY WORKING CLASS, a standalone adult chick lit/women’s fiction, by Karly Lane. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
Synopsis Socialite Quinn Appleton knows how to live life—at full speed and with no limits. She has the perfect life, an amazing boyfriend, friends by the bucketload and an eye for fashion. Life is good.
The Appletons are a household name, their eponymous biscuit empire having been in the family for over one hundred and fifty years, making them one of the country’s richest families. They are no strangers to controversy either, constantly gracing the covers of gossip magazines, caught in compromising positions at outrageous parties.
But CEO and matriarch Lady Elizabeth Appleton has had enough. Tired of her children and grandchildren not pulling their weight and dragging the once respectable Appleton name through the mud, she decides to cut them all off financially.
With her life in ruins, Quinn is just one Jimmy Choo heel away from living in a cardboard box when Gran gives her an ultimatum: take a job at the company for six months and her trust fund will be reinstated. The catch? She must do it under a false identity and work her way up—no one can know she’s an Appleton.
Surely it can’t be that hard to hold down a lousy job? After all, millions of other people seem to do it. But Quinn is about to learn just how different the world is when you find yourself suddenly working class..
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Excerpt #2 After yet another seemingly endless long day, Quinn kicked off her heels and sank to her bed, massaging her aching feet one at a time. She was desperate for a bath, but an image of the scum rings around the tub at the end of the hall sent a shudder through her. ‘Looks like a hot shower it’ll be,’ she muttered despondently, dragging herself back upright to find her comfiest lounging clothes before heading to the bathroom.
She opened the bathroom door and a wave of steam poured out to greet her. As it cleared, she found herself staring open-mouthed at a man who was shaving, standing naked except for a fluffy white towel wrapped around his hips.
She did a double-take—her fluffy white towel!
‘Hi,’ he said, far more calmly than the situation warranted.
‘That’s my towel!’ she shrieked.
He slowly looked down at the towel in question, which was tucked, somewhat haphazardly, around his lean hips, before glancing back up at her.
‘Yeah, sorry. I forgot to grab mine.’
‘Well, take it off!’
He kinked a lazy eyebrow and gave a slow smile that momentarily distracted her outrage.
‘Well, okay, if that’s what you want,’ he shrugged, putting down the razor and moving his fingers to the corner of the towel, holding it gingerly across his hips.
‘What the hell are you doing?’ she gasped, coming to her senses.
‘Giving your towel back.’
‘Oh my God. You’re naked. I don’t want to see you naked!’ she snapped, then swallowed nervously. I mean, it wouldn’t be the absolute worst view in town, a little voice inside reasoned, before she shook her head swiftly to dislodge the wayward thought. ‘What’s wrong with you?’
‘Just trying to keep you happy.’
She stared at this man before her, half his face freshly shaved, the other half still covered in shaving cream, watching her through slightly amused dark-blue eyes, and found herself close to tears. It really was too much. All she’d wanted was to take a hot shower to try and wash away the frustration of another day working in a stupid job she hated, and now she was standing here, being laughed at by some half-naked stranger wearing her Abyss and Habidecor one hundred percent Egyptian cotton towel!
‘Hey, I’m sorry,’ the stranger said, his demeanour changing instantly. ‘Seriously, I jumped in the shower and forgot my towel. I saw this one and figured I’d be able to duck back to my room and get dressed and replace it before anyone knew it was missing.’
‘Are you freaking crazy? You were going to use my towel—a complete stranger—and then just put it back?’ It was beyond gross.
‘I was planning on washing it first,’ he said, sounding insulted she’d even consider him doing anything less.
‘Oh, well, that’s big of you,’ she snapped, wiping her eyes before sniffing and searching for the box of tissues she’d put in here that morning.
‘We were out of toilet paper,’ he said sheepishly, looking across the room where the tissues sat on the floor beside the toilet.
Quinn’s shoulders slumped in defeat. Just when she figured this day couldn’t get any worse, it just kept proving her wrong.
Without a word, she turned on her heel and walked out of the bathroom.
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Author Karly Lane
About the Author Karly Lane lives on the beautiful Mid North Coast of NSW in Australia. A certified small town girl, she is most happy in a little town where everyone knows who your grand parents were. She writes women’s fiction – everything from romantic suspense to family sagas and life in rural Australia. She has romantic suspense titles published under Karlene Blakemore-Mowle and her latest release, Third Time Lucky is available now.
Welcome to the book blitz for DARK BLUE WAVES, a standalone adult historical time travel romance by Kimberly Sullivan. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway. For a limited time, you can pick up the eBook for just $0.99.
Synopsis When you wake up in Bath, England two hundred years in the past, how far can a love of Jane Austen get you?
Janet Roberts dreams of an academic career in literature, so she can hardly believe her good fortune when she’s accepted into a Jane Austen graduate seminar in Bath, England. Settled in Georgian splendor among her seminar colleagues, Janet and her classmates live, eat and breathe Jane Austen.
An accident interrupts this idyll when Janet regains consciousness in her own room—back in Regency England. For a scholar of nineteenth-century literature, this should be a dream come true.
But Janet quickly learns there’s a world of difference between scholarly knowledge of the written page and maneuvering real life as a reluctant time traveler.
Her burgeoning friendship with Emma Huntington eases her entrée into nineteenth-century society. However, Emma’s brother, the handsome, proud and frustratingly magnetic Sir Edward, is far less welcoming.
While desperately attempting to make sense of her dilemma, Janet treads a thin line between trying to blend into her new world and not being unmasked as the imposter she is. Can she discover the way to return to her twenty-first century life? After working so hard to create a rewarding nineteenth-century life for herself and opening her hart to friendship and love, does she even want to?
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Excerpt #2 In her room, Janet sat at the window seat, watching the people wandering the narrow streets of Bath. She read a few pages of her book before giving in to her exhaustion and crawling into bed. After setting the alarm, she drifted off to a troubled sleep.
A piano played in the distance. Mozart. Voi che sapete. Janet struggled to breathe. Something constricted her chest and waist, yet her feet still carried her forward at a brisk pace, through candle-filled hallways she didn’t recognize. Full-length portraits lined the walls. Thick velvet brushed against her legs as she walked.
An inexplicable sense of relief washed over her when she reached a room. Her hand clasped the doorknob and turned. She slipped inside, closing the door behind her.
Darkness enveloped her. Her heartbeat slowed as she looked up to something familiar. Individual, disjointed images captured her gaze. A billowing pink cloth. An alabaster face, slightly turned. Arms reaching up to the sky. A splattering of green. These flashes seemed to calm her, but she struggled in vain to see the single parts in their entirety.
A movement under the soothing images caught her attention. A chair was positioned before a fireplace. Someone stood. A man, his back toward her. He was tall, dressed in fine, old-fashioned clothes. There was something so familiar about him. Now he was turning and taking long strides across the room to where she stood. Her heart beat faster.
Janet tried in vain to make out his features but quickly gave up. It was as if she were glimpsing him through a fog. She longed to retreat, but her feet remained firmly rooted in place as his confident gait narrowed the distance between them.
Although he was mere inches from her, she could still not distinguish the features of his face. Only the depths of his blue eyes were distinct. As she gazed into them, she felt an unfamiliar fluttering in her stomach. The man slipped a book into her hand. She opened to see shadow words scrawled in thick, black ink. Squinting did not help bring them into focus. He began to speak. She watched his lips move. She heard his voice as if she were under water, not comprehending the individual words. Oddly soothing, but indecipherable.
He reached up and stroked her face before enveloping her in an embrace. Who was this stranger who was overly familiar with her? She knew she should scream and flee, but her thoughts did not control her body. Her legs made no attempt to move from this unknown man.
Inexplicably, she felt safe in his arms, with his heart beating solidly beside hers. Now he was pulling back, stroking her hair, searching her face.
Janet still only saw the shadow version of him, soft and out of focus. She gave up trying to reconstruct his face. His gaze mesmerized her. It seemed so familiar, made her knees feel weak. Those piercing blue eyes kept coming closer and closer to her own face until firm lips brushed against her own. A warmth spread throughout her body. High-pitched yells rang out. Her knees buckled.
A burst of pain exploded at her temple, and she woke with a panicked start. Her eyes flickered around the room in confusion. Deep breaths.
It was nothing. Her hotel room in Bath. A dream. Only a dream.
As her heartbeat slowed and her breathing calmed, she realized it was most likely the jet lag or all the silly talk of romantic literature. Her head throbbed. Willing the pain to stop, she closed her eyes and drifted back to sleep.
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Author Kimberly Sullivan
About the Author Kimberly grew up in the suburbs of Boston and in Saratoga Springs, New York, although she now calls the Harlem neighborhood of New York City home when she’s back in the US. She studied political science and history at Cornell University and earned her MBA, with a concentration in strategy and marketing, from Bocconi University in Milan.
Afflicted with a severe case of Wanderlust, she worked in journalism and government in the US, Czech Republic and Austria, before settling down in Rome, where she works in international development, and writes fiction any chance she gets.
She is a member of the Women’s Fiction Writers Association (WFWA) and The Historical Novel Society and has published several short stories and two novels: Three Coins and Dark Blue Waves.
After years spent living in Italy with her Italian husband and sons, she’s fluent in speaking with her hands, and she loves setting her stories in her beautiful, adoptive country.
Rosewind Books and author Anna Gomez are revealing the cover to EIGHT GOODBYES, a standalone adult contemporary romance/women’s fiction, releasing January 31, 2023. See below for the cover, information on the book, preorder links, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
Synopsis “A heart-wrenching tale of two people destined to be together. Simon and Tessa are fantastically portrayed as star-crossed lovers whose lives are worlds apart. Even those who are not fans of romance will enjoy the relationships, scenery, and beautiful prose of this book. Five stars!” ~San Francisco Book Review
One universe, nine planets, 204 countries, 809 islands and 7 seas, and I had the privilege of meeting you.” –Unknown
When Tessa Talman first meets Simon Fremont, not only is she attracted to him, she’s intrigued by how different their lives are. He’s a dedicated scientist, practical, pragmatic, and grounded. She’s a head-in-the-clouds romance author. As their relationship grows, they meet in places around the world, while continuing to live in different countries.
Though their feelings for each other deepen, their priorities remain the same. Simon is in a hurry to be financially sound and settle down, but Tessa is enjoying her freedom and newfound success. Neither is willing to give in, but as each goodbye gets harder, Tessa begins to wonder whether fame is the path to happiness, or if she has everything she needs in Simon.
Just as Tessa finds the courage to go after her own happily ever after, the unthinkable happens, separating them in ways she never imagined.
To move forward, she must let go of the past and determine once and for all if love is truly more powerful than the pain of goodbye.
“A beautiful story of a woman’s quest to open her heart and let love in. It made me want to travel and fall in love all over again.” ~Willow Aster, USA Today Bestselling Author
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Author Anna Gomez
About the Author Anna Gomez was born in the city of Makati, Philippines and educated abroad. She met and married her best friend who whisked her away to Chicago over twenty years ago. She is Global Chief Financial Officer for Mischief and No Fixed Address, a consolidated group of advertising agencies. Gomez was recently selected for the 2020 HERoes Women Role Model Executives list, which celebrates 100 women who are leading by example and driving change to increase gender diversity in the workplace. Gomez has championed various ERGs for Black and API colleagues as well as resources essential to address challenges of ageism. She has sat on several boards, most recently serving as treasurer for Breathe for Justice and The Jensen Project, both focused on socio-economic issues, particularly violence against women and human trafficking.
Most recently, her novel MOMENTS LIKE THIS, co-authored with Kristoffer Polaha, was optioned for Film/TV. www.AnnaGomezBooks.com
Welcome to the book blitz for DEAR ISOBEL, a standalone adult contemporary women’s fiction by Jinny Alexander. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis Two marriages, a bucket full of dreams and a pile of broken hearts.
She’s not sharing her name. She’s been judged enough.
Once, she had it all: a supportive husband, lovely children, and a prestigious career revitalising failing businesses in the wake of Ireland’s recession.
When her friend Isobel suggested she take on a new job in their tiny rural community, she didn’t expect to fall in love.
Now she has become the other woman, the marriage wrecker, the cheat, and the betrayer.
When the illicit relationship ends, she’s stuck between the ruined affair and a crumbling marriage. Jobless and bereft, she must try to salvage what remains.
Will talking to Isobel help pick up the pieces or shatter their lives forever?
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Excerpt #2 My tears anger her, she does not understand them. Nonetheless, it still catches me unawares, almost an entire week later, when I am the recipient of the emotional outburst bleeping into my inbox to inform me that my own emotional outbursts are unwelcome.
Dear Isobel, Thank you for your emotional outburst to ask me not to have any emotional outbursts. It is good of you, as always, to tell me not to reply, just in case we begin an everlasting text conversation reminding each other not to have emotional outbursts.
Among the many things I cannot comprehend, I cannot comprehend her lack of understanding that this is an emotional time for me, as well as for her. How can she not understand I have lost the family I’ve known for the last four years and that her family have lost me? How can she not understand that for me to leave everything I ever wanted behind me, with the tears I shed on her doorstep, will undoubtedly make me cry and cry and cry? I know I am the cheater and not the cheated, but, at times like this, it still feels as if we have lost the same things, Isobel and me. I can still put myself in her shoes, so why can she no longer fit into mine? Her text is emotional, with misspellings and anger, and I can tell she has been drinking.
Dear Isobel, You should hide your phone before you open wine.
There is an element of hypocrisy I must admit to, as I send this text with the uncomfortable knowledge that I, too, should hide my own wine, along with my phone.
Dear Isobel, It is good of you to keep up this regular contact, approximately once weekly, I believe so far, to remind me not to have any contact with you. I appreciate it.
She clearly doesn’t realise I will think of her weekly even without her reminding me not to think of her. Daily, even. Hourly, in fact. I wonder will there ever come a time when she and Charles do not fill my thoughts in all my waking hours?
Dear Isobel, Why don’t you realise that each time you contact me, it triggers a thousand memories, and I then spend far longer thinking of your husband than I was before your message came through?
Although I was pleased to have seen him, and to have spoken to him, while the girls had their lesson on that dark night, and to have remained calm and civil, I then go to bed thinking of him, and wishing it was not like this. I lie against my own husband—I drape my arms and legs around and across and over him—but it is not him I am thinking of as I fall asleep.
Dear Isobel, Which of us is Charles thinking of as he lies next to you and falls asleep?
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Author Jinny Alexander
About the Author Jinny was first published in Horse and Pony magazine at the age of ten. She’s striving to achieve equal accolade now she’s (allegedly) a grown up. She secured a publishing deal in December 2020 and her first two novels will be released by Creative James Media in 2022.
Jinny teaches English as a foreign language to people all over the world, which gives her an endless source of new inspiration for stories. Her home for now is in rural Ireland, which she shares with her husband and far too many animals. Her two children have grown up and flown the nest – mostly. She quite likes to shut the door on them all and write.
Welcome to the book blitz for THREE COINS, a standalone adult contemporary women’s fiction, by Kimberly Sullivan. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis One Eternal City. Three women. Three wishes. Three coins.
Emma, an American expat living in Rome for twenty years, can’t count on her ex-husband to help out with the kids when things get tough. Dario Rinaldi, famed plastic surgeon to the stars, is too busy gallivanting around Europe with young women to take an interest in his family.
Beautiful Tiffany, born and bred in Iowa, is desperate to get a spot as a dancer on an Italian television show. But is she willing to do whatever it takes to make her dreams of TV stardom come true?
Annarita, from an Italian-American family in Yonkers, teaches English to over-privileged Italians and regularly has her heart trampled by boyfriends all wrong for her. As her mother is always quick to point out, nothing has gone right for her since she moved to Italy. And she isn’t getting any younger, either.
Emma, Tiffany and Annarita all meet up by chance at a 1950s movie night while on a restorative holiday at a beach resort off-season. The triumphs and hardships of these three very different women become intertwined as they form an unlikely friendship and work to better their messy lives.
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Excerpt #2 The doorbell rang. Gently, Tiffany placed the shoes down and made her way to the door. After peering through the peephole, she smiled and flung open the door.
“Ciao bello. Come stai oggi?”
Simone’s eyes examined her from head to toe. Grasping her by the shoulder, he spun her gently around. “Wow, much better after seeing you. Good thing I never have students like you in my classes. Too distracting.”
She tapped him on the chest. “You’re such a tease. You didn’t even see me in my heels. I’ll knock before I go out.”
There was a spark in his hazel eyes. “Where are you going, dressed to kill? Out to break more hearts?”
She sighed. “I wish. I’m going to a party. The producer of a show I’m auditioning for will be there. I have to make a good impression.”
Simone raised an eyebrow. “Dressed like that, how could you not?” He reached for her hand. “It sounds to me like you need a good, home-cooked meal to strengthen you before the attack.”
Tiffany groaned. “Not again. I had to hold my breath to squeeze into this dress. Your cooking will bust the seams.”
“There’s nothing to you, Tiffany. I may not watch those shows, but I am an Italian male. I don’t think skeletal frames are any man’s ideal. Just a little. I promise not to force-feed you.” He smiled, setting off the crinkles around his eyes.
Tiffany could never resist Simone. He was like a big puppy dog. And since they’d been neighbors, he was more like a brother to her than her own brother had ever been. “Okay, you win. Lead the way.”
She allowed herself to be nudged next door. She’d been so many times to this apartment, a mirror image of her own, but so much more grown up. Good quality furniture, overflowing floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a fully equipped kitchen that Simone actually used on a daily basis. When Simone returned from the high school biology classes he taught, he went for a jog, then got to work in the kitchen. Heavenly aromas wafted from under his door every evening when she returned, while Tiffany wondered if she had enough lettuce left over in the fridge for a salad.
“I still haven’t gotten used to cooking for one.” He pulled a hot bakery tray from the oven.
Tiffany waited until he’d turned. “How’s Ramona? Have you spoken to her?” She knew Simone didn’t want to talk about it, while still wanting desperately to talk about it.
He turned his back to her again, placing bread slowly onto a plate. “She likes Chicago. She prefers e-mailing to calling or Skyping, says the sound of my voice makes her nostalgic. Makes her weaken her resolve about our deal.” His shoulders slouched.
Tiffany held back rather than slipping comforting arms around him.
“I hate how she calls it ‘our’ deal, when she’s the one who wanted to go to Chicago, free from all ties. I was willing to wait for her.”
Tiffany heard a sigh, but when Simone turned around he was smiling. She suspected his acting skills were far more developed than her own.
He placed the serving plate on the table with a flourish. “Crusty, homemade French bread, with melted gorgonzola and hazelnuts.”
“You’re freaking kidding me. You even bake your own bread?”
“Ah, ah, ah.” He slapped her hand playfully. “No profanity at this dinner table, Signorina Walker.”
“Oh, please.” Tiffany held up a steaming piece of baguette, smelling the melted gorgonzola. “Your English is so damned perfect and precise. You need to shake it up a bit, make it a bit more colorful.” She grinned. “That’s where I come in.”
“So you see? I lucked out with my choice of neighbor.”
“Ha!” Tiffany swallowed a bite. “Luck’s got nothing to do with it. Where else could we afford to live on two teacher’s salaries? A penthouse on Piazza di Spagna?”
Simone’s face clouded over. “Ramona’s company pays for some luxurious condo.”
He made a face and the word, on his lips, sounded vulgar.
“It overlooks Lake Michigan and the skyline. It has a gym and a twenty-four hour doorman.” He allowed his voice to grow soft. “She’s not coming back.”
Tiffany sighed and placed her hand over Simone’s. His hazel eyes looked so vulnerable. A lock of his thick, dark hair fell over his eyes, and she longed to brush it away. “No, she isn’t, Simone.”
“Yeah, I know.”
His voice sounded heartbreakingly sad. For the second time, Tiffany fought the urge to embrace him. “You need to get over her. There must be some gorgeous colleague at work. Cook her dinner and she’ll swoon.” She stroked his arm. “I can’t think of a better boyfriend than you.”
His gaze met hers. “Ramona didn’t think so. She couldn’t sprint away fast enough.”
“Ramona doesn’t know what she’s missing.”
One side of his mouth twitched up. “Then why aren’t you jumping me when you have the chance? I’m lonely and vulnerable.”
“I would, but I’m vain and shallow. I need a man in show business, with a fancy car and a yacht. Someone who’ll have the contacts to get me on TV.” She shrugged. “A high school biology teacher—no matter how sexy and adept in the kitchen he is—just won’t cut it.”
Simone laughed. “Fair enough. You’re more honest than my girlfriend. I mean, my ex.” He poured wine into her glass. The oven timer went off. “The lasagna is ready.”
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Author Kimberly Sullivan
About the Author I write the women’s fiction stories I love to read, both contemporary and historic tales of women and the rich lives they lead along their journeys of self-discovery. A lifetime admirer and longtime resident of Italy, I’m often guilty of sneaking the bel paese into my stories.
Welcome to the blog tour for BABY BLUE, the second standalone book in the the historical romance series, Corrington Brothers, by Leesa Wright. See below for information on the book and series, preorder links, an exclusive excerpt, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
BABY BLUE (Corrington Brothers Series #2) by Leesa Wright
About the Book – Read for Free with Kindle Unlimited Title: BABY BLUE Series: Corrington Brothers Series, #2 Author: Leesa Wright Release Date: August 1y, 2021
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Links: Goodreads | Amazon| Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Amazon DE | Amazon IT | Amazon FR
Synopsis The saga of the Corrington brothers continues from the heart of San Francisco to Woodstock. Baby Blue takes the reader from the hippy movement through the post-war trials of returning Vietnam veterans.
Captain Donall Corrington: A Naval fighter pilot recovering from the physical and mental wounds from his time as a prisoner of war. Sitting on the dock of the bay, Donall meets Anablue Baker: A quirky flower child, alone and lost in the world. The Daughter of a vengeful admiral who has no problem using her for his gain. Anablue grieves for her twin brother lost to the horrors of war. Torn from the arms of the man she loves, terrified for her life, and to save her lover, Anablue flees to face her future on the run.
Captivated by her sky-blue eyes, nothing will stop Donall from righting the wrong of forbidden love. Returning to his arms the one woman he’s waited a lifetime to find.
Leesa Wright has again brought her love of history to life in this new 20th Century Historical Fiction Romance. Baby Blue is available now.
Come and be swept up in this romantic saga set amidst the tumultuous sixties. When a nation at war cries for peace and star-crossed lovers go on the adventure of a lifetime.
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Excerpt “L Ü’â get out of here. That’s the second time some strange guy walking by has sneered at me,” Elijah said.
“You’ve got military written all over you. We both know they are not nice to our returning troops,” Elyse said, a shimmer of tears in her eyes.
“Yeah,” Elijah gruffly replied. “Any little piss-ant that spits at me will find himself pounded into a puddle.”
Concern in her eyes, “Elijah. Please. They have no clue what our troops go through.”
Elijah nodded his head. “Lets’ go before Bunker falls asleep.”
“Yes, I need to get to class,” Elyse replied.
“Be careful driving home afterward, brat. It’s a long drive.” “I’m sorry you have to adjust your schedule and drive down here so often,” Elyse said.
“Don’t be silly. This is what we both wanted,” Elijah replied.
Kissing his wife goodbye, Elijah watched the swing of Elyse’s hips as she walked down the sidewalk toward the dance studio a few blocks away. Looking at Bunker. “Let’s go pick up your hot mama’s birthday present, then go get some sheet music.”
A plain young woman named Kim was at the cash register as Elijah went into the bookstore. He asked for his French poetry book on order. She called down an aisle to a co-worker, asking where the copy had been placed. Another youthful- sounding woman called back; it was under the register. Paying for his book, he left and headed up the street to the music store.
Once inside the store, Elijah headed for the sheet music section. Flipping through the composers, not looking for anything in particular. An aroma drifted up, and he looked down at Bunker. “Oh no, not here, buddy.” Pulling back the diaper so he could peek inside. Coughing and gagging, he looked around for the head. He didn’t see it, so he went up front. A hippy worked the register, his shoulder-length long brown hair swinging back and forth as he moved his arms to clear the air.
“Dude, your kid stinks,” the hippy said. “Where’s the head?” Elijah asked.
Confused. “What’s a head?” the hippy asked. “The men’s room,” Elijah growled.
“Oh, go through those double doors in the back, the last door on the left.”
Elijah pushed the stroller into the head. Lifting Bunker out of the stroller, holding the baby up. “Next time, save it for mama. And that’s an order.” The baby gurgled and laughed, flopping his chubby little arms while kicking his feet.
“Just so you know. A full diaper is considered insubordination,” Elijah said, smiling as he looked into his son’s amethyst- colored eyes. Looking at the black curls covering Bunkers head.
“You need a haircut soon. But first, let’s figure out how to clean you up.”
He stripped the baby’s cloth diaper and plastic pants off, throwing them both in the trash.
He miraculously cleaned and diapered the tiny tot, lathering him with diaper cream. Holding the baby up. “I have had hundreds of troops under my command. Crawled through mud and swill, I’ve been waist-deep in a leech-filled swamp and lived through the worst possible conditions. And none of those experiences come in any way close to the mess you just made.” The baby gave him a sweet half-smile, and Elijah’s heart melted as it had a thousand times before. “You have your mama’s guilty as charged smile.”
About the Author Leesa makes her home in the Twin Cities metro area with her husband and her two dogs Rosie and Jax.
When she isn’t writing she enjoys gardening, painting, and reading romance novels. She and her husband also enjoy movies, traveling, and entertaining their two grown children along with several beautiful grandchildren.
Leesa’s favorite romance authors are Kathleen Woodwiss, Christine Feehan, and Johanna Lindsey.
The book’s inspiration came one night from a dream about the characters, a song, and the story around them.
Today is release day for BABY BLUE, the second standalone book in her the historical romance series, Corrington Brothers, by Leesa Wright. See below for information on the book and series, preorder links, an exclusive excerpt, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
BABY BLUE (Corrington Brothers Series #2) by Leesa Wright
About the Book – Read for Free with Kindle Unlimited Title: BABY BLUE Series: Corrington Brothers Series, #2 Author: Leesa Wright Release Date: August 1y, 2021
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Links: Goodreads | Amazon| Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Amazon DE | Amazon IT | Amazon FR
Synopsis The saga of the Corrington brothers continues from the heart of San Francisco to Woodstock. Baby Blue takes the reader from the hippy movement through the post-war trials of returning Vietnam veterans.
Captain Donall Corrington: A Naval fighter pilot recovering from the physical and mental wounds from his time as a prisoner of war. Sitting on the dock of the bay, Donall meets Anablue Baker: A quirky flower child, alone and lost in the world. The Daughter of a vengeful admiral who has no problem using her for his gain. Anablue grieves for her twin brother lost to the horrors of war. Torn from the arms of the man she loves, terrified for her life, and to save her lover, Anablue flees to face her future on the run.
Captivated by her sky-blue eyes, nothing will stop Donall from righting the wrong of forbidden love. Returning to his arms the one woman he’s waited a lifetime to find.
Leesa Wright has again brought her love of history to life in this new 20th Century Historical Fiction Romance. Baby Blue is available now.
Come and be swept up in this romantic saga set amidst the tumultuous sixties. When a nation at war cries for peace and star-crossed lovers go on the adventure of a lifetime.
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Excerpt “Where’s the kid?”
“What kid?”
“The little shitty one.” The hippy said.
“I don’t have a kid, shitty or otherwise,” Donall replied. The hippy looked at him, then leaned over the counter to look at the floor.
“Same blue shirt, no kid,” he mumbled. “You’re sure?”
“Yeah, I’m sure,” Donall replied as he picked up a bottle of strawberry oil, opened it, and sniffed the fragrance.
The hippy, a little wild-eyed now. “And the patchouli oil for your old lady?”
“She’s not old, and trust me, she doesn’t need it,” Donall replied.
The hippy scratched his head and gave him a strange look. “That’s exactly what you said before.”
“You okay, man?” Looking at his name tag. “You been sniffing glue on break, Mike?” Donall asked.
“Wow, this is far out, man. Maybe I dropped too much acid last night,” Mike replied.
Donall nodded his head, “Yeah. You might want to consider saving some brain cells, dude.” and he turned to leave.
“Peace out, man, power to the people,” Mike said as he raised his hand and gave him the peace sign.
“Yeah, peace,” Donall replied. Donall noted the red Camaro was gone. He climbed on his bike, revving the engine. He pulled away from the curb. Maybe I should take Anablue on a bike ride this weekend. We’ll see how tomorrow goes.
About the Author Leesa makes her home in the Twin Cities metro area with her husband and her two dogs Rosie and Jax.
When she isn’t writing she enjoys gardening, painting, and reading romance novels. She and her husband also enjoy movies, traveling, and entertaining their two grown children along with several beautiful grandchildren.
Leesa’s favorite romance authors are Kathleen Woodwiss, Christine Feehan, and Johanna Lindsey.
The book’s inspiration came one night from a dream about the characters, a song, and the story around them.
Welcome to the blog tour for BETTER BELIEVE IT, a standalone adult contemporary women’s fiction, by Fern Ronay. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis Jada Marlone’s life appears to be perfect on social media. She has a loving husband, a beautiful child, and a successful career. What she doesn’t post about is the disconnect she feels in her marriage, the difficulties of motherhood, and her strained relationship with her mother.
Resigned to never being truly happy, Jada runs into an ex-boyfriend. While trying to decide whether the coincidence is her second chance at happiness, Jada begins having dreams that feature her dead cousin Gina.
With Gina’s help, Jada starts to uncover the real reasons behind her life decisions. As Jada tries to figure out her future, uncontrollable events threaten her resolve. Will she be able to draw from all she learned from Gina, or will she risk making the same mistakes twice?
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Excerpt #2 I hate my husband.
Mark was a hard-working, successful intellectual-property attorney and a good father to our three-year-old son, Ethan. But every time he opened his mouth, I cringed.
I watched him push Ethan on the swing as I sat on a bench a few yards away. Every time he pulled the swing back, he would say in a high pitch, “Up, up, up.” And when he let go, he would say in a low baritone, “Down, down, downnntown.”
I surveyed my surroundings. All I had access to at the moment was a large, heavy stroller piled high with a bag of supplies, most of which were never used, like the first aid kit, emergency change of clothes, emergency change of underwear, and boxes of juice.
Can I stab myself in the neck with a juice straw? Will it kill me? Will it end this misery?
I assumed I felt that way because I was wasn’t grateful enough. I had only myself to blame. I had to get better at gratitude. My friend Veronica Buccino Blackman was always rattling off all the things she was grateful for, and I could only ever come up with “I’m grateful for chocolate.” Dark. At least 70 percent cacao. The higher, the better. And I was grateful for quiet people on the train. People who talked on their cell phones on the train—or worse, people who tried to make conversation on the train—were the worst people in the world. Quiet people were so underappreciated.
The sun was directly overhead, pulsing hot rays through my skull. I scanned the park for another bench in the shade, but the one to my left was occupied by the mom of twin girls around Ethan’s age and their schnauzer, Popcorn. Popcorn was a park regular. He was cute but a notorious toe licker. Disgusting. My sandaled toes curled in repulsion. The bench to my right was empty, but it didn’t provide all that much shade. Still, I reached for Ethan’s stroller, and as I struggled to move it, his Buddy the Bulldozer remote control fell. Ugh. We were already on our third replacement. Luckily, Ethan didn’t see that as he was going “downnnntown.” I recoiled.
As I pushed the stroller toward the other bench, still in sight line with Mark’s broad shoulders pulling back the swing, he called for me. “Hey, Jada. Jay. Jay!”
I shielded my eyes from the sun. “What?”
“Can you bring over a juice?”
I stepped down on the stroller brake, popped a straw in a juice box, and walked over to the swings.
Ethan took one sip and declared, “No. I want applesauce.”
I walked back to the stroller, retrieved an applesauce, twisted off the cap, and walked back over to the swings.
Ethan took one mouthful and declared, “No. I want to get pushed.”
So I went back to my bench, but not before I got them to smile for a picture. I posted it with the caption, “Another perfect day in the park with my boys!” and a heart emoji. I plopped down on the bench and wondered what wrong turn I’d taken in life to get to this point.
Is this it? Is this happiness? Sitting in a park on a Saturday in the summer, watching kids drip their snot all over the slides and monkey bars? Serving up juice and applesauce? Hating your husband?
“Popcorn!” The frantic scream came from behind me. Popcorn ran as fast as he could right toward me. I wondered what he was gunning so hard for all of a sudden. The nearly full juicebox? Then he ran right past me. The exit?
I stood, stretching my neck toward the wrought iron gates of the park so my eyes could follow Popcorn’s path. Run, Popcorn! Run! I found myself cheering inside. Go, Popcorn! Go! Freedom awaits!
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Author Fern Ronay
About the Author Fern Ronay has lived in NYC, Chicago, and now sunny Los Angeles with her husband, but she will always consider herself a Jersey girl. She is the author of two novels, Better in the Morning and Better Believe It, and is the host of the podcast Signs from the Other Side, as well as a host at the AfterBuzzTV network. Follow Fern on Instagram @FernRonay and check out her free ebook at FernRonay.com.
Author Lessa Wright is revealing the cover to BABY BLUE, the second standalone book in her adult historical romance series, Corrington Brothers, releasing August 17, 2021. See below for the cover, information on the book and series, preorder links, an exclusive excerpt, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
BABY BLUE (Corrington Brothers Series #2) by Leesa Wright
About the Book – Read for Free with Kindle Unlimited Title: BABY BLUE Series: Corrington Brothers Series, #2 Author: Leesa Wright Release Date: August 1y, 2021
Genre: Adult Historical Romance
Links: Goodreads | Amazon| Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Amazon DE | Amazon IT | Amazon FR
Synopsis The saga of the Corrington brothers continues from the heart of San Francisco to Woodstock. Baby Blue takes the reader from the hippy movement through the post-war trials of returning Vietnam veterans.
Captain Donall Corrington: A Naval fighter pilot recovering from the physical and mental wounds from his time as a prisoner of war. Sitting on the dock of the bay, Donall meets Anablue Baker: A quirky flower child, alone and lost in the world. The Daughter of a vengeful admiral who has no problem using her for his gain. Anablue grieves for her twin brother lost to the horrors of war. Torn from the arms of the man she loves, terrified for her life, and to save her lover, Anablue flees to face her future on the run.
Captivated by her sky-blue eyes, nothing will stop Donall from righting the wrong of forbidden love. Returning to his arms the one woman he’s waited a lifetime to find.
Leesa Wright has again brought her love of history to life in this new 20th Century Historical Fiction Romance. Baby Blue is available now.
Come and be swept up in this romantic saga set amidst the tumultuous sixties. When a nation at war cries for peace and star-crossed lovers go on the adventure of a lifetime.
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Excerpt Anablue stood on the dock next to Donall’s sailboat. The string of profanity coming from inside the cabin burnt her ears. A cloud of choking, acrid, diesel exhaust poured from the galley as Donall made an exit coughing, choking while waving his arms to clear the air. He stopped, his loud and descriptive curse dying on his lips.
Her eyes wide and a half-smile on her face. She bit her lip. “Hmmm. Engine trouble?” she ventured. Donall’s frustration was apparent as he snarled, pointing inside the cabin. “That beast. That beast should be taken out, shot, burnt, and sunk to the bottom of the bay.”
“Well. Let me look at it first,” she said.
“You? You want to take a shot at it? A girl.”
“You doubt me?” she asked.
Nodding his head, regarding her with amused skepticism. “Okay Baby blue. Take your best shot.”
Anablue set her things down. Buttoning up her pink painting shirt, she climbed down onto the deck of the boat.
Pulling her hair back and tying it into a messy bun. Taking the wrench from his hand, she walked into the cabin with a sassy “just watch me” swing to her hips.
The engine was tucked under the floorboards of the cabin. Lying next to him on her tummy on the floor, she worked while he handed her the various tools she needed.
“I didn’t know sailboats had engines,” she said. “Kind of odd, don’t you think?”
“I think the previous owner added it. You need one if you end up adrift somewhere. I would hate to have to paddle back to port,” Donall said.
“Oh yeah. That would not be fun.”
“So, tell me how a girl like you knows how to fix an engine?” Donall asked.
“It goes back a while. First, it’s time for a secret.”
Donall chuckled. “Tell away.”
“I’m afraid of horses,” she said. “They’re big and intimidating. Mind you, I lived on a ranch. I never quite mastered the art of horseback riding like my brother and just about everyone else did. For me, just getting on the horse was like a clown show, let alone getting the horse to go where I wanted it to go.
“Your secret is safe with me,” Donall said.
“Anyhow, when I was fourteen I was always tinkering on my Gram’s old tractor, along with old engines in the pole barn. I used it as an excuse not to ride. I was too busy. Eventually, I talked the old mechanic, Bud, into hiring me to work at the gas station in town.”
A wide grin split his face. “A mechanic, you’re a mechanic.”
“Don’t laugh. I started out pumping gas and changing oil. Bud finally let me help him work on cars and trucks. He was getting old, so he retired and sold the gas station. The new owner didn’t want a girl working for him. I lost my job. So, you see I’ve been dealing with sexism for a very long time.”
Donall nodded. “You’re right. I was out of line. I am sorry.”
She nodded her head. “It hurt at the time, but then I was off to “see the world” with a new job.
After a couple of years, Gram got sick and I couldn’t leave her alone, so I had to go home. Even after she died, I never went back. Being a woman mechanic, they didn’t want me back. I was a bit of an embarrassment for them. I am, however, a certified mechanic.”
“How did you manage that?”
“In high school, I took night classes. I stuffed my hair up into a hat and wore my brother’s baggy clothes. They thought I was a boy.”
“They had to be blind. Even covered in grease I can see you’re a girl.”
“My dream when I was growing up was to own that little gas station.”
“And now?” Donall asked.
“I don’t know right now. The funny thing is, dreams change,” Anablue replied.
Donall reached over and ran his finger down her cheekbone to her neck. Snuggling into her, he placed soft kisses on her neck.
“No canoodling the mechanic,” she said, with a shiver.
Donall’s muffled laughter as he nuzzled her neck sent desire coursing through her body. She dropped the wrench and turned to him. He pulled her into his arms as his lips found hers. Tasting, exploring, he plundered her mouth and her neck, moving to the hint of cleavage at the V of her shirt. His hands roamed her body. From the curve of her back to her waist, and up to cup her breasts. She returned his fervent kisses, lost in his touch, an unknown need grew inside of her.
“Eight bells, Anablue.” Capt. Jack’s call brought her out of her passion-filled trance. Sitting up, she traced his lips with her finger leaving a trail of grease.
“You’re a dangerous man, Donall with two L’s.” She rose to her feet and left the cabin.
About the Author Leesa makes her home in the Twin Cities metro area with her husband and her two dogs Rosie and Jax.
When she isn’t writing she enjoys gardening, painting, and reading romance novels. She and her husband also enjoy movies, traveling, and entertaining their two grown children along with several beautiful grandchildren.
Leesa’s favorite romance authors are Kathleen Woodwiss, Christine Feehan, and Johanna Lindsey.
The book’s inspiration came one night from a dream about the characters, a song, and the story around them.
Author Christine Brae is revealing the cover to THE LIGHT IN THE WOUND, the first book in the adult contemporary romance/women’s fiction series, The Light in the Wound, releasing September 1, 2021. See below for the cover, information on the book, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
THE LIGHT IN THE WOUND (The Light in the Wound Series #1) by Christine Brae
About the Book Title: THE LIGHT IN THE WOUND
Author: Christine Brae
Publisher: Vesuvian Books
Release Date: September 1, 2021
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance/Women’s Fiction
Links: Goodreads
Synopsis “The wound is the place where the light enters you.” ~Rumi
Affected by her parents’ highly publicized divorce, Isabel Amarra grows up isolated and alone, vowing to never repeat their mistakes. But when Jesse Cain enters her life, Isabel falls hopelessly in love with him. Every sadness she’s ever felt is washed away by his intensity and passion.
As time goes by and Isabel leaves her teenage years behind, her needs and perspectives change. Then she meets Alex Ailey, who shows her a love that is selfless and freeing.
Despite everything, Isabel fights to stay with Jesse, determined to hold on to what they once had—until she can no longer deny her true feelings.
But if Isabel lets go, can a second love ever be enough to make her forget her first.
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Author Christine Brae
About the Author Christine Brae is a full time career woman who thought she could write a book about her life and then run away as far as possible from it. She never imagined that her words would touch the hearts of so many women with the same story to tell. Her second book, His Wounded Light was released in December, 2013.
Christine’s third book, Insipid, is a standalone that was released in June, 2014, and her fourth book, In This Life, released in January 2016.
When not listening to the voices in her head or spending late nights at the office, Christine can be seen shopping for shoes and purses, running a half marathon or spending time with her husband and three children in Chicago.
Christine is represented by Italia Gandolfo of Gandolfo Helin Literary Management.
Welcome to the book blitz for THE RESTARTING POINT, the first book in the women’s fiction series, Chammont Point, by Marci Bolden, releasing April 27, 2021. See below for information on the book, preorder links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
THE RESTARTING POINT (Chammont Point Series #1) by Marci Bolden
Synopsis Marketing executive and mother of two, Jade Kelly can now add cancer survivor to her list of successes. But while her life looks good on paper, four months out of treatment, Jade realizes she hardly knows her college-age children and she and her husband Nick are little more than housemates.
Determined to start over, Jade schedules a family vacation to a lakefront cabin. When her kids bail and Nick stays home to handle a last minute work crisis, Jade heads to Chammont Point alone, determined to dust herself off and figure out what to do with the rest of her life.
While she’s away, the life she thought she had unravels. Secrets, lies, and old wounds drive Jade into new adventures and new relationships. With the help of family and new found friends, Jade learns starting over sometimes means finding a brand new restarting point.
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Excerpt Jade was thinking anything would be a welcomed distraction when the door swung open.
“Knock, knock,” Darby sang as she poked her head in without actually knocking. Nor did she wait for Jade to invite her in before entering. She held out a plastic container from the grocery store and lifted a bottle of wine. “I thought you might need these. I hope you like mint brownies and red wine.”
Jade had always adored both. However, she’d completely altered her diet after her diagnosis. She’d never been a heavy drinker, but as soon as she’d read that alcohol and junk food increased the risks for the type of cancer she’d had, she’d cut those indulgences from her life. She hadn’t had either in over a year. “You didn’t have to do that.”
After easing her offerings onto the table, Darby faced Jade. “Yes, I did. I am really glad your ankle didn’t get hurt worse. That’s definitely worth brownies and a moderately priced bottle of Malbec.” She grinned. “And…” She opened the door again, reached out, and then spun dramatically. “Look at these.” Darby beamed as she held up two gold-painted crutches covered in gems of varying size, shape, and color. “I dug them out of my closet for you to use as long as needed.”
Jade widened her eyes as she stared in shock. Gaudy was an understatement. The display before Jade was atrocious.
“Wow,” Jade said for lack of any other words. “Thanks.”
“I, too, sprained my ankle once.” Darby set the crutches against the coffee table and within Jade’s reach. “You should never do cartwheels on a stage. While wearing vinyl platform boots. And drinking heavily.”
“Yeah,” Jade said, drawing the word out a bit. She didn’t have to think too hard to see the image Darby had created. “That sounds like it would be a bad idea.”
“Speaking of drinking, let’s get to that wine.” Darby turned toward the table where she’d left the bottle.
“Oh, thanks, but I don’t drink,” Jade said.
Darby stopped, frozen in time for a few beats, and then spun around and cupped her ear as if she hadn’t heard. “I’m sorry, what?”
“I don’t drink. I had… It’s bad for my health. I’ll take a glass of water, though.” Jade could almost see the gears in the other woman’s brain spinning as she processed the information. Jade had almost slipped in the bit about her cancer, but sometimes the words still stuck deep in her chest like a fist not ready to release its hold. The ability to share her struggles as freely as she’d heard others with major illnesses do was not something she’d mastered. She suspected she’d get there, but that was a skill she had to work on.
“You don’t drink? How do you get through the day?”
Jade giggled as Darby stared with obvious confusion. “Slowly.”
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Author Marci Bolden
About the Author
As a teen, Marci Bolden skipped over young adult books and jumped right into reading women’s fiction and romance novels.
Marci lives in the Midwest with her husband, two kiddos, and numerous rescue pets. If she had an ounce of will power, Marci would embrace healthy living but until cupcakes and wine are no longer available at the local grocery store, she’ll put that ambition on hold and appease her guilt by reading self-help books and promising to join a gym “soon.”
USA Today bestselling author, Bethany Lopez, is unveiling the cover to UNWOVEN, a standalone adult contemporary/women’s fiction, releasing January 25, 2021. See below for the cover, information on the book pre-order links, and a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR.
Synopsis USA Today USA Today Bestselling Author Bethany Lopez brings you a gripping emotional tale of how a family’s ties are tested when the unthinkable happens.
It only took an instant. A terrible accident. A life-altering explosion.
That fateful rainy night will forever change the Talbot family. The choices they make in the aftermath will force them to reevaluate their relationships, the paths of their lives, and even themselves.
In the face of so much uncertainty, can they rediscover the family they used to be, or will their ties continue to remain unwoven?
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Author Bethany Lopez
About the Author BethanyLopez is a USA Today Bestselling author of more than thirty books and has been published since 2011. She’s a lover of all things romance, which she incorporates into the books she writes, no matter the genre.
When she isn’t reading or writing, she loves spending time with family and traveling whenever possible.
Bethany can usually be found with a cup of coffee or glass of wine at hand, and will never turn down a cupcake!.
Synopsis Leena Coughlin is simply eye-candy to her husband Steven’s sky-rocketing career. Steven may be a brilliant cardiac surgeon, but the self-absorbed man is more focused on other people’s hearts—and his own pleasure—than on the emotional heart of his family. He’s a God-like man, after all, saving lives every day. And a man like him has needs. More than Leena can provide.
To fend off the growing loneliness of her marriage, Leena strikes up a relationship with a stranger, Michael Casspi, through a letters-to-prisoners program. Michael was also once a cardiac surgeon. He claimed that assisting his dying wife with suicide was an act of mercy. The state called it murder. Can a man imprisoned behind bars fill Leena’s emotional void?
Focused on their own strained relationship, neither Steven nor Leena has noticed the deteriorating mental health of their college-aged daughter, Joy.
Two men. One woman. And a fragile girl teetering on the knife-edge of depression. But when Michael is unexpectedly released from prison, the precarious balance of all their lives will be dramatically altered forever.
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My Review The story is told in four first-person points of view: Leena, Steven, Michael, and Joy. Leena and Steven’s marriage is far from perfect, which is obvious right away from both POVs. The fact that Leena is writing to Michael out of loneliness as he languishes in prison is not a surprise. The opening chapter is Michael’s and it starts with a bang, hooking me almost instantly. As the story unfolds, we find out more about Steven’s extramarital behavior. He seems to love his wife and daughter, though he never has time for them. At least he sees his wife in bed most nights, where he grabs a quickie before going to sleep. But he barely sees his daughter and hasn’t for years. Steven is a famous cardio-thoracic surgeon, in high demand. He believes the material things he provides for his family should be enough. It’s not enough for him, though, because he has a rather active sex life with women who are not his wife. He claims it’s because he needs to blow of steam and doesn’t want to bring his hospital life home, which he views as a safe harbor. But in reality, he likes to do what he considers dirty and depraved things he believes his wife is too good for.
Leena is the long-suffering wife who we all know deserves better. She clearly loves her husband and adores her daughter, yet she’s completely oblivious to everything going on around her. She has no idea her daughter is suffering form mental illness that pushes her to the brink of suicide, nor that her husband has been unfaithful for probably most of their marriage. Shea assumes because he comes home to bang in her in the night, he’s clearly not getting anything on the side.
So much of the story I found problematic, but the author kept me turning the pages, proving she’s an outstanding storyteller. The book could have been a stronger story for me if the author had gotten certain details correct. For instance, Steven, a renowned surgeon, and even Michael for that matter, keep referring to conjoined twins as Siamese twins. That’s not a medical term at all and is actually quite offensive. I cringed every time it was mentioned, which was a lot. There was also a continuity error that yanked me out of the story when Leena is driving her beloved Karmann Ghia through the streets of San Francisco, only to end up in her black Mercedes, which blends in, without ever going home and swapping out cars. There is nothing about a Karmann Ghia that blends in, so this was jarring. And finally, the biggest problem I had was Joy’s mental illness. Throughout the book, everyone, including Joy, blames her father’s lack of presence in her life as the cause of her depression. But this does a disservice to anyone who suffers from mental illness. It is not caused by someone else. The blame game is very dangerous and hurtful, especially to anyone who has lost a loved one to suicide. The thought that if they’d only done more, been more present, etc., they could have prevented it, is a terrible message to send.
Plot The plot centers around Michael’s release from prison, his future beyond his time behind bars, and the relationships between all four main characters. There’s a lot of drama and even more at stake, and the author does a good job of keeping the pacing spot on. As I said, I was riveted to the story and wanted, or rather needed, to find out what happened next, regardless of my issues.
The Characters The characters were all well-developed and deeply flawed. We get deep into each of their points of view, even Steven’s. While it was good to understand what drives a man who has everything to throw it all away for cheap thrills, it didn’t really do much to make me like him, but I think that was never the point. it was an interesting twist I wasn’t expecting, though.
Top Five Things I Enjoyed About A HEART LIFE 1. San Francisco. I loved that my favorite city in the world was the backdrop for these characters. The story is as much a love letter to the City by the Bay as it is anything else.
2. Joy. She was my favorite character. Maybe because I have a daughter the same age or maybe because I could see a lot of my nineteen-year-old sister in her, but she was probably the only truly innocent person in the story.
3. Cliffhangers. Each chapter ended strongly, forcing me to read on. I love when an author can do that.
4. Twists. There were only a few twists that really caught me by surprise, but those are always a treat and I enjoyed them immensely.
5. Storytelling. The author knows how to weave a tale that kept me turning the pages.
Bottom Line A fun, fast read with deeply drawn characters.
Disclaimer I was provided by a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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About the Book – Read for Free with Kindle Unlimited
Title: A HEART LIFE
Author: Patricia Yager Delagrange Genre: Women’s Fiction
Release Date: November 26, 2020 Pages: 293
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Amazon DE | Amazon IT | Amazon FR
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Author Patricia Yager Delagrange
About the Author Fascinated by broken-hearted couples and atypical families, Patricia writes women’s fiction, weaving engaging tales of men and women who create cohesive families where love reigns supreme. She sprinkles her books with intriguing characters who struggle to find balance in life. Whether an unwed teenager, desperate widow, abandoned father, disconnected sisters, or a troubled couple, her characters form relationships impacted by their desire to create a family.
Patricia lives with her husband and two children on the island of Alameda, across the bay from San Francisco, along with three chocolate labs and a rescue terrier mix. When she’s not writing or spending time with her family, Patricia enjoys riding her Friesian horse Maximus, who lives in the Oakland hills with a million dollar view.
Welcome to the book blitz for THE PEOPLE WE MEET ALONG THE WAY, a stand-alone women’s fiction novel, by Beth Rinyu. See below for information on the book, buy links, an exclusive excerpt, and details on her giveaway.
Synopsis Would you be able to grant the same forgiveness that you’re so desperately seeking yourself?
Jillian O’Rourke’s marriage died long before her husband’s tragic accident. Years of battling with infertility and demanding careers melted their once solid relationship. Bearing the burden of guilt over his death, Jillian gets lost in despair and a series of “what-ifs”. But one chance encounter with a stranger, changes everything. Now being faced with newfound knowledge and a painful decision, Jillian must push past her anger, learn to forgive and open her heart in ways she never could’ve imagined. As she comes to grips with the devastation of her past, she learns to embrace the possibility of a future she never thought possible. A bittersweet story of love, forgiveness, and the unexpected destiny that is sometimes handed to us in life from the people we meet along the way.
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Excerpt #2 “I just wish you didn’t hate me so much.” I concentrated on the coffee in my cup as I swirled the wooden stirrer round and round.
“I don’t hate you,” I said, focusing my attention back to him. “I hate what we did. I hate that I let it define who I was for so long, and I hate that I hurt someone I cared about so much because of it. But I don’t hate you—you were just one of the many cracks in my life.”
He creased his forehead. “I don’t understand.”
I gazed at him long and hard, finally fearless of the shame the man staring back at me conjured up inside of me. He held no control over me, and he never had. I stood up and pushed my chair in as he sat there waiting for an explanation. “And I wouldn’t have expected you to. Goodbye, Jonathan.”
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Author Beth Rinyu
About the Author Ever since I can remember, I have always enjoyed Creative Writing. There was always something about being able to travel to a different place or become a different person with just the stroke of a pen – or in today’s world a touch of the keyboard.
My life is not as interesting as my books or the characters in them, but then again whose life is? I’m a mom of twin teenage boys,a crazy Border Collie and a cat with an identity crisis! I guess you can say writing is my form of Calgon!
Thanks for taking the time to learn about my books and me! If you decide to read them (and I hope you do!) please be sure to go on and review it for me – yes, even if you don’t like it!
Welcome to the blog tour for CELEBRATING NAKED , a stand-alone women’s fiction, by Lindsey Issow Averill. See below for information on the book, buy links, and an exclusive teaser excerpt.
Synopsis How do you break a death bed promise to your best friend?
When Sissy came to visit Liz and Cliff Gordon, they weren’t expecting her to stay. But she was pregnant and newly widowed, and more importantly, the Gordons loved her. Together, they and their children formed a family—non-traditional, but extraordinary.
Eighteen years later, cancer takes Sissy, and she leaves behind a legacy so vibrant the family’s grief threatens to break them.
Liz makes a promise: she’ll celebrate Sissy, not mourn her. She won’t let her sorrow show. But her husband, Cliff clings to a secret that brings him both joy and pain. Their son, Michael is lost in his guilt. Their daughter, Clara grapples with coming-of-age without her “second mother.” And Sissy’s son, Artie discovers a love that could cause him to lose everything. They’ve all celebrated Sissy’s life… but can they go on without accepting her death?
Told from six perspectives and set is sun-drenched Santa Fe, New Mexico, Celebrating Naked explores motherly love, romantic love and the love of true friendship. This tale of a family’s heartbreak—reminds us that grief is a byproduct of love.
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Author Lindsey Issow Averill
About the Author Growing up in both conservative, Greenwich, CT and whimsical, Santa Fe, NM, Lindsey is the daughter of a gypsy Queen and a gynecologist. Her childhood was filled with rainbows and cotton candy and she believes that if all children had parents like hers then world peace would be right around the corner.
A woman of many hearts, Lindsey is a filmmaker, an academic, a writer, an activist, a novelist, a sake and sushi lover, a notorious trashy television watcher, an odd beauty secret keeper, an amazing dancer… really, the list is endless. She’s married to a dreamer who calls her pumpkin poop and makes her feel like burping hearts, and she has a son who she fondly calls potato.
In her spare time, Lindsey writes stuff for lots of cool media outlets, like CNN, xojane, Time.com, The Huffington Post, Alternet, Refinery29, and Bustle.
Today is release day for CELEBRATING NAKED , a stand-alone women’s fiction, by Lindsey Issow Averill. See below for information on the book, buy links, and an exclusive teaser excerpt.
Synopsis How do you break a death bed promise to your best friend?
When Sissy came to visit Liz and Cliff Gordon, they weren’t expecting her to stay. But she was pregnant and newly widowed, and more importantly, the Gordons loved her. Together, they and their children formed a family—non-traditional, but extraordinary.
Eighteen years later, cancer takes Sissy, and she leaves behind a legacy so vibrant the family’s grief threatens to break them.
Liz makes a promise: she’ll celebrate Sissy, not mourn her. She won’t let her sorrow show. But her husband, Cliff clings to a secret that brings him both joy and pain. Their son, Michael is lost in his guilt. Their daughter, Clara grapples with coming-of-age without her “second mother.” And Sissy’s son, Artie discovers a love that could cause him to lose everything. They’ve all celebrated Sissy’s life… but can they go on without accepting her death?
Told from six perspectives and set is sun-drenched Santa Fe, New Mexico, Celebrating Naked explores motherly love, romantic love and the love of true friendship. This tale of a family’s heartbreak—reminds us that grief is a byproduct of love.
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Author Lindsey Issow Averill
About the Author Growing up in both conservative, Greenwich, CT and whimsical, Santa Fe, NM, Lindsey is the daughter of a gypsy Queen and a gynecologist. Her childhood was filled with rainbows and cotton candy and she believes that if all children had parents like hers then world peace would be right around the corner.
A woman of many hearts, Lindsey is a filmmaker, an academic, a writer, an activist, a novelist, a sake and sushi lover, a notorious trashy television watcher, an odd beauty secret keeper, an amazing dancer… really, the list is endless. She’s married to a dreamer who calls her pumpkin poop and makes her feel like burping hearts, and she has a son who she fondly calls potato.
In her spare time, Lindsey writes stuff for lots of cool media outlets, like CNN, xojane, Time.com, The Huffington Post, Alternet, Refinery29, and Bustle.
Author Beth Rinyu is revealing the cover to THE PEOPLE WE MEET ALONG THE WAY, a stand-alone women’s fiction novel, releasing September 17, 2020. See below for the cover, information on the book, a link to add it to your Goodreads TBR, and details on her giveaway.
THE PEOPLE WE MEET ALONG THE WAY by Beth Rinyu
About the Book Title: THE PEOPLE WE MEET ALONG THE WAY Author: Beth Rinyu Release Date: September 17, 2020
Genre: Women’s Fiction Cover Designer: Amy Queau at QDesign
Links: Goodreads
Synopsis Would you be able to grant the same forgiveness that you’re so desperately seeking yourself?
Jillian O’Rourke’s marriage died long before her husband’s tragic accident. Years of battling with infertility and demanding careers melted their once solid relationship. Bearing the burden of guilt over his death, Jillian gets lost in despair and a series of “what-ifs”. But one chance encounter with a stranger, changes everything. Now being faced with newfound knowledge and a painful decision, Jillian must push past her anger, learn to forgive and open her heart in ways she never could’ve imagined. As she comes to grips with the devastation of her past, she learns to embrace the possibility of a future she never thought possible. A bittersweet story of love, forgiveness, and the unexpected destiny that is sometimes handed to us in life from the people we meet along the way.
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Author Beth Rinyu
About the Author Ever since I can remember, I have always enjoyed Creative Writing. There was always something about being able to travel to a different place or become a different person with just the stroke of a pen – or in today’s world a touch of the keyboard.
My life is not as interesting as my books or the characters in them, but then again whose life is? I’m a mom of twin teenage boys,a crazy Border Collie and a cat with an identity crisis! I guess you can say writing is my form of Calgon!
Thanks for taking the time to learn about my books and me! If you decide to read them (and I hope you do!) please be sure to go on and review it for me – yes, even if you don’t like it!
