From the New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster comes a funny, sexy romantic comedy featuring a twice-divorced, stressed-out romance writer who finds out that sometimes true love can be a hot mess.
Who buys a cottage in a New England fishing village on a whim? A stressed-out, twice-divorced romance writer and single mother looking for a fresh start, thatβs who. Despite what my besties say about my three-year dry spell, Iβm not looking for a man. Or drama. Or sex. Iβve got enough on my plate with writerβs block and a daughter who refuses to grow up. Community. Thatβs what I need. Unfortunately, it seems the universe has other ideas. Either Chatemup, Massachusetts, has a serious shortage of single women, or Iβve become a hot mess magnet for the male species.
At least Iβve found one funny, good-hearted friend: fish peddler Declan Miller, my brainstorming adventure buddy who stirs my creative juices. Iβm his Writer Girl. Heβs my Dimple Dude. Just scruffy, granite-chested, deep-voiced, ex-military brawn who happens to beβoh, Nicole, what are you doing to yourself?βstoking a long-neglected fire without even trying.
A self-confessed hot mess, divorced single dad Declan is too old for relationship games. Not interested. Same here. So why do I keep thinking about him? Preferably naked. Because Iβm a hot mess, too? At least heβs inspiring me to write. If only real life were like one of my novels. At least then Iβd have a better idea of how this was going to end.
Hot Mess Summer is published by Montlake Romance and will be available in paperback and audio formats at all book retailers, and exclusively in digital format for Kindle and Kindle apps. Download a free Kindle reading app here: http://bit.ly/FreeKindle_App1
I am always so happy to get my hands on a new book by Melissa Foster. Her characters are invariably engaging and her writing can turn something simple into a story that draws you in & won’t let go. The fact that this one focuses on an older hero and heroine, a couple that are grown but not done growing, is refreshing. And I was delighted by their journey from being new friends into more.
Both Declan and Nicole are moving into a new phase of their lives – figuring out where they fit with their friends and family, and learning what they want for themselves going forward. The way they do this together, going on delightful adventures, getting closer, and growing as people is just a fun read.
There’s very little drama and angst here, instead it’s a story about self discovery filled with delightful characters, humor, and small town charm. Oh, and a good amount of heat, of course.
*****
Author Info:
Melissa Foster is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissaβs emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family orientedβperfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.
Merrick has the perfect life: a husband, a baby, and a great future ahead of him. Until all that is ripped away, and heβs left alone with his daughter. After two years, he knows itβs time to move on. To find a new life for him and Willow. It comes in the shape of a derelict mill house nestled in the hills above a Devon seaside town.
Drew
When Drew loses the chance to buy and restore the house heβs loved all his life, the last thing he wants to do is renovate it for the mysterious new resident. But something about Merrick Green intrigues him, and he feels compelled to lift the heaviness surrounding him. The fact that Merrickβs daughter seems to have taken an instant infatuation with Drew makes it easier.
As the two men become friends, Merrick battles with his attraction to Drew. How can he be interested in the ruggedly handsome when heβs still in love with Josh?
Letting go of the past is hard, but with Drew by his side, he finds a way forward.
Life After Loveis a sweet small-town, opposites-attract, hurt/comfort romance with low angst and a sweet little girl that everyone falls in love with.
Warning: The book deals with the loss of a loved one.
As I approach my truck, a man is looking at it. No, heβs taking a photograph. βCan I help you?β I put my toolbox into the open flat bed.
The man blushes and takes a step back. βOh, is this your truck? Iβm sorry. I wanted to get a photo of your contact details. Iβm looking for a building contractor.β
He must be the latest resident in our small beachside town. The new owner of the Mill House. Heβs incredibly good looking. Iβd say around my age, thirty-five. About the same height as me at five eleven and has eyes the colour of soft, faded denim. His hair is short at the sides, but with honey-blond curls on top, which I envy. My hair is straight and long enough to tie up. I should get it cut. The amount of dust, plaster and sawdust is a bloody nightmare to wash out every night.
I pull a notebook out of the side pocket on my shorts and the pencil from behind my ear. βIβm sure I can do that for you. What sort of work?β
βUm, itβs pretty much everything. The house is a bit of a wreck. Iβd hoped to do some of it myself, but I know thatβs out of my abilities. I donβt know if itβs something youβre interested in doing?β
I get the feeling the guy is overloaded with things that need immediate action and has got himself lost in the process. βWhy donβt you show me? Iβve got nothing else planned for the day.β
He lets out a sigh. βThat would be so good. Itβs Mill House. Do you know it?β
I smile. My suspicions this is the new guy were right. βI do. I was born and bred in this town. I can follow you there if youβd like?β
βOkay, thank you so much. See you in a few.β
I wait until heβs in his car, then start the engine on mine. His smart, new, not-cheap-at-all BMW is something else for the gossips to talk about. Handsome, single, and seemingly rich. Melanie will be waving her knickers on a pole in front of him in the blink of her false eyelashes.
The drive takes ten minutes, winding through the town and up parallel to the river that runs down to the sea. The Mill House still has the original water wheel. Although the river has been diverted away from the property, itβs still an impressive feature of the house.
He turns to me. βThis is my daughter, Willow. Iβm Merrick Green.β
βIβm Drew Roberts, but you probably guessed that from the signage.β
βOh, yes, well, itβs nice to meet you.β Heβs flustered as he juggles the sleeping toddler to shake my hand.
He gestures with his head. βWelcome to my home. Or what will be my home. Come on in.β
I follow him up the stone steps to the solid oak door.
He pushes the door open. βItβs a bit of a mess. Please be careful where you walk.β
βThanks for the heads-up.β I step in, holding back my smile. I used to come here a lot when I was a kid. Itβs not as bad as I remembered.
I wait in the hallway as he places the sleeping child on a sheet partly covering an old mulberry velvet sofa that has been here forever.
βI havenβt been in here for years,β I say when Merrick walks back out.
Surprise flashes in his eyes. βYou know the house?β
I chuckle. βEveryone whoβs grown up here has played around in this house. Not that we were supposed to, but kids will be kids. School-leaving parties took place here, and teenagers just wanting to hang out would come here. Itβs about time someone came and loved it again. Itβs a good place to live and raise a family, Merrick.β
A flash of pain rocks over his face, and he closes his eyes as he takes a deep breath.
βHey, are you okay? Iβm sorry if I said the wrong thing.β
βNo, itβs fine. Can I get you a drink? Iβve got some bottled water or some juice. Then we can walk around, and Iβll show you what needs your attention as soon as you can.β
βIβm good, and is it just the urgent work you want me to do, or are you looking for a quote for all the renovations? Who else have you spoken to?β
βNo one else. Iβve only been here a couple of days.β
βYouβre not staying in the house now, are you? I donβt think itβs safe.β
He looks at the cracked walls and sagging ceilings and chuckles. βNo, Iβm staying in a hotel for now. But if you could give me a quote for the initial work, we can discuss the rest of the work when I have the plans back.β
I scratch my chin. βYouβre putting a lot of faith into a man youβve just met.β
βI asked around. You were the first name mentioned. Plus, you look like a decent guy.β Finally, he gives me a small smile.
βWhen does your wife arrive?β
*****
Review:
I’m amused that the things I liked the most about this story are the things that have it getting some lower * reviews. I mean I get that everyone has their own preferences (there’re lots of romances that are loved that I didn’t even finish) but it’s just funny that those are specifically what is called out π
Life After Love is definitely slow burn and low angst, with very little conflict between the two main characters. Instead it’s about Merrick finally starting to get over the death of his husband and choosing to move on with his life. Meeting, and falling in love, with Drew is definitely not something he expected but maybe something he needed. (The little encouragements from Josh are touching and the push that he needs at the right time.)
I enjoyed both Drew and Merrick as characters. They are good-hearted and sweet together, making me pull for them from the first page. Merrick has a lot he needs to face, just getting up was hard for a long time after Josh died, but a change of scenery and new friends are definitely helping. Drew shows a lot of patience and understanding as he gets to know Merrick and his daughter (who is just the sweetest). It’s easy to see why Merrick opens up to him and gives him his trust & eventually his heart.
The supporting characters are good for Merrick as well. From Drew’s meddling sister and her friend, to Luke and Benny at the cafe, everyone is welcoming to the little family and there for both Drew & Merrick when they need it. Definitely need to see more of Merrick’s sister and best friend. Both are good eggs, full of heart and support. And I’m hoping that Harper gives us more of Josh’s brother. We didn’t get to know him well but he seemed like a stand up guy who’s hurting as well. Drew’s friend definitely needs a resolution … ok, so there’s a lot of opportunity here. I hope you have big plans Harper!
This is a new author for me and obviously I’m looking forward to finding out what’s in store for us next.
*****
Author Info:
Just in case you donβt know me. Iβm a simple soul that puts all my hopelessly romantic thoughts down on my computer. Iβm usually in the living roomβtyping awayβwith my wayward Great Dane, Siddiqi, next to me on the sofa.
Iβm a hopeless romantic, always falling in love with my men, determined to make sure they get the happy-ever-after they deserve, even if they do have to work hard for it.
I live in a tiny village in Lincolnshire, UK, with my husband and dog, who are forever patient with me when I forget the time, and the dinner!
Readers who enjoy romance with flirty bartenders and holiday towns will love Gettinβ Figgy by Gail Haris, a steamy, small town, neighbors to lovers, opposites attract romance.
Gettin’ Figgy
Candy Cane Key
Man of the Month: October
by Gail Haris
Blurb:
Are you ready to meet your next Man of the Month?
What happens when you drop a Halloween fanatic on a Christmas themed island in the Florida Keys?
Rose didnβt expect to find herself toe to toe with her handsome neighbor on a holiday called Sweetest Dayβ¦ and all because of a fig.
Gettinβ Figgy from Gail Haris is a small-town, opposites attract romance about Candy Cane Key’s charming Greek restaurant and bar owner, Thanasis Diakos, and his wickedly attractive neighbor, Rose Verbeck.
While Rose is convinced Than-ass-is a complete Jack, but not Frost, he sees her as the ultimate thorn in his side. However after a few signature drinks, ‘Gettinβ Figgy,’ they just might discover each otherβs sweet side.
The Man of the Month Club is a steamy small-town collection featuring a new hottie (or two!) every month. In 2023, escape to Candy Cane Key, Florida, and celebrate ALL the holidays with your favorite group of romance authors and their delicious paradise men. Canβt wait to see you there!
Thanasis doesnβt look amused. βYou know kids live on this street. Stringing the lights to look like Santa is peeing off the side of the house isnβt appropriate. And having my elves holding a body bag with the rest of my Christmas decorations in it is borderline disturbing.β
I canβt help it. I snort with laughter. Thanasisβ eyes soften and I notice a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth. βI wanted us to become friends. To make peace.β
Doubtful. But Iβll play along. βFine. Letβs be friends.β
βToo late. You donβt mess with a manβs yard.β I scoff,Β Thanasis continues. βI want you to remember you started this.β
Started what? βNothing has started. Itβs finished. Consider that as me getting even for last night.β
βWhat happened last night?β
βYou were being obscene.β I hate the way my eyes drift to his lips. His perfect teeth are on display with his sexy knowing smile. His tongue snakes out only a bit to wet his lips, but itβs enough to have me squeezing my thighs together.
βAnd youβre being childish by vandalizing my property.β
βIs it vandalizing if itβs an improvement? When you think about it, I did you a favor. Consider it my gift to you for Sweetest Day.β
βYou definitely spiced up the neighborhood. Iβll see you for our playdate.β
I loathe the fact that he looks so sexy when he winks. I wonder if I can teach the dogs to pee on him.
Copyright 2023 Gail Haris
*****
Author Info:
Gail Haris loves blending romance out of life’s everyday chaos. Stories filled with humor, steam, and moments of sweetness, along with suspense and twists.
Fueled by coffee and with a wild imagination, she writes in a variety of genres, including romantic comedy, romantic suspense, and new adult/coming of age romance.
Always laughing too loud and thriving on awkward situations, Gail enjoys traveling, binging series, and trying out new recipes (that sounds better than just eating).
Gail believes whole heartedly to never stop believing in love, dreams, and yourself. And coffeeβ¦especially the coffee. Donβt give up on coffee and books.Β
I loved my life. Sleeping around. No commitments. But my mother kept prying into my love life, wanting to see me happily settled down.
The remedy seemed to magically reveal itself when I stumbled onto Travis, my childhood best friend, on a dating app. When we were in elementary school, we promised to marry each other if we were still single at thirty.
Reconnecting, I proposed we give the pact a real shot. To my surprise, Travis agrees. Somewhere in the midst of planning our wedding, the unthinkable happens. Our feelings for each other become⦠real.
As the day of our fake marriage grows near, how do I tell Travis I want the real thing and for him to be mine forever?
I gave him a little smile. βI wouldnβt want to make my future mother-in-law uncomfortable, especially not so early in our engagement. And I donβt want to get you in trouble. Heaven knows we did enough of that as kids, right?βΒ
He inhaled a deep breath and let it out slowly, grinning. βThanks for understanding.β
βThatβs what partners are for, right?β
His voice was soft when he spoke. βYeah. Thank you.β
βAnytime.β Silence stretched between us, nervous tension, the air crackling. My heart thumped and thudded. I was sure he could hear it. The tension in my stomach fluttered and roiled, urging me to act.
I swallowed my nerves and leaned close, putting my hand up to cup his face, pulling him close very gently, and we met in the middle with a tender kiss.
The way our lips touched was so tentative. Travisβs sharp inhale was loud in my ears, as was the soft little noise of surprise he made when our tongues met. My entire body was alight, every nerve ending firing at the same time. Travisβs hand found my bicep and gripped me, holding on for dear life as we kissed so slowly. I couldnβt remember a kiss ever being that intense, even the hurried, sexy ones, and I never wanted it to end.
Travis broke the kiss just as gently and carefully as it had started. He backed away, loosening his grip on my arm, and slid back. βWow,β he whispered. βThat wasβ¦β
I nodded. βYeah.β
βI think Iβm going to like this arrangement,β he said, grinning slowly.
I couldnβt stop myself from laughing a little breathlessly. βMe too.β
*****
Author Info:
Riley Long is an author of gay romances novels spanning many genres from contemporary to paranormal. They live a quiet life in Virginia, with their husband, son, and two very silly pit bulls.
They spend their evenings writing, reading, and watching bad television (or not so bad television).
For fun, Riley participates in NaNoWriMo, GISH, and reads with her book club, the BAMFs.
They like things with silly acronyms.
Riley can tell you two different stories about getting covered in dairy products for a hug.
Join us this Halloween for the exclusive Once Upon a Halloween Night bash in the New Orleans Warehouse District for an evening of fun, costumes, and romance. The Indie Pen PR and Beyond the Bookshelf Publishing are excited to kick off spooky season with seven brand-new, fun, and sexy novellas from Lauren Helms, Kate Stacy, Mel Walker, Susan Renee, Kartina Marie, Courtney W. Dixon, and Louise Lennox.
Once Upon a Halloween Night
by Lauren Helms, Kate Stacy, Mel Walker, Susan Renee, Katrina Marie, Courtney W. Dixon, Louise Lennox
Blurb:
Congratulations!
Youβve been invited to attend the exclusive Once Upon A Halloween Night bash.
This year, join us in New Orleans Warehouse District on Halloween Night for an evening of fun, costumes and⦠romance?
Wait. What?
Thatβs right.
The Indie Pen PR and Beyond the Bookshelf Publishing is proud to host Lauren Helms, Kate Stacy, Mel Walker, Susan Renee, Kartina Marie, Courtney W. Dixon, and Louise Lennox – in this fun Halloween romance anthology.
So, throw on your best costume and get ready to sit back and enjoy seven brand new novellas to celebrate spooky season with a romantic twist.
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Dating in Disguise by Lauren Helms
She sets the drink down and turns to me. βYou must love Robin Hood if youβre willing to invest.β
βRobin Hood and I have a lot in common, actually.β I inform her.
Her nose scrunches. βOh really? How so?β
βWell, for starters, I’m a master archer”
βNope. I donβt believe it.β She giggles.
βI am. Really. I learned at summer camp when I was twelve. Hooked ever since.β I tell her almost defensively.
βAh, okay then. What else do you have in common?β
βIβm glad you asked. See, I’m also a master of disguise.β
Her eyes widen playfully, βOh my. I can see that. Is this even your real face?β
I lean my head back and smirk at her. βEverything about me is real, baby. Truth is, I’m not worried about disguising myself tonight, so what you see is what you get.β
βIβve heard that heβs also a charmer. A ladiesβ man. Obviously, that checks out.β She grins.
I nod. βI was born a charmer. Itβs in my blood.β
βRight.β She nods in understanding, laughter dancing all over her face. βSo what you’re saying is that you are the embodiment of Robin Hood.β
βOh, I like that. The embodiment of Robin Hood.β I snap my fingers. Sheβs brilliant and beautiful.
Her brows furrow, βDoes that make you an outlaw then?β
βNah, I mean, if stealing from the rich and giving to the poor is considered breaking the law…β
She huffs out a laugh. βStealing is totally considered breaking the law.β
I shrug, βMeh, maybe, but I’ve got a heart of gold, so that’s all that matters.β
βI suppose thatβs true.β She reaches for her drink and sips it, keeping eye contact with me over the glass. Sheβs flirty and Iβm digging it, but sheβs not getting all touchy-feely with me, so Iβm a little unsure of where this is going.
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Haunted Melodies, Kate Stacy
βCome with me,β I say, grabbing hold of her hand.
Remiβs laughter rings through the night air as I lead her between the cathedral and museum, slipping into one of the alcoves there. The joy in her voice mirrors the twinkling stars in the sky, and her eyes sparkle with a mix of amusement and excitement. Fuck, sheβs beautiful.
Carefree looks incredible on her.
Shrouded in shadows, I watch Remi as her laughter subsides into a contented sigh. She looks at me and smiles, so I kiss her again, pressing her body against the hard stone behind her.
I canβt get enough.
The way she tastes.
The feel of her body against mine.
βLuke,β she murmurs breathlessly against my lips.
I trail kisses along her jaw, groaning when she tips her head back, giving me access to more of her soft, silky skin.
βLuke,β she says again, and I want to hear her say it a thousand times more. βWe canβt do this here.β
βAfraid of things that go bump in the night?β I murmur, smiling as I kiss down the column of her throat.
She sucks in a breath.
“No. Just charges for indecent exposure, public lewdness, orβ”
Chuckling, I take her mouth with mine, kissing her deeply.
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Love on the Halloween Dance Floor by Mel Walker
βYou promise to wait for me?β She asks the question, already knowing the answer. At a concert in Detroit that had technical issues with the lighting and sound equipment, Aaliyah spent nearly an hour reaming out the organizer. She came out an hour later and was shocked to see me waiting for her. I committed to her that day that I would never leave a venue without her.
βThe rest of my life if I have to.β The words slip from my heart to my lips without thinking. My chest thumps heavily with my misstep. She twists to read in my eyes the meaning of my words.
Lights bounce off her glasses, and I fail in my attempt to read hers. An explosion of cheers erupts in front of me, and I look up to investigate. Ali is bowing at the front of the stage. The performance has ended.
The house lights rise in the theatre, and Poppy leads the girls back to their families. Whistles and cheers continue to float in the air.
A warm set of lips land on my cheek. I hold my breath and record this moment, stored alongside a treasure trove of protected memories.
Aaliyahβs lips linger for a heartbeat longer than normal, a hesitation I pick up on because when it comes to her, I notice everything. βReally good work today. Congrats. See you in ten.β
βHere, let me β¦β I take her hand to help her out of the pit. I chew on my tongue to distract myself from the spark that shoots through my body.
βSuch a gentleman. Someday, some lucky woman will β¦β She doesnβt complete the sentence. The words hang like a challenge.
A challenge Iβve yet to answer.
My eyes linger on Aaliyah as she navigates the narrow aisle. She moves with a purposeful stride, a woman on a mission. My eye refuses to look away until she disappears out the exit. Only then do I take a breath. Only then do I realize I hadnβt.
Like I said, I got it bad.
She has work to do. But Iβll wait. Iβll always wait for her. I whisper the words I donβt have the courage to say to her face. The words I pray may come true someday. βSomeday. Someday that lucky woman will be you.βΒ
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Ghosted by Susan Renee
βHow do you make it so easy to breathe, Scarlett?β Oliver asks me, his forehead pressed to mine.
βBecause I donβt expect you to be someone youβre not, Oliver. Youβre free with me. Zero expectations. Consider me your safe space.β
βIβm finding myself overwhelmingly attracted to you,β he says. βAnd Iβm sorry if thatβs too much. Maybe Rowena was right. Iβm not good at hiding my feelings.β
βItβs perfectly fine to have feelings. I have them too.β I bring my hands to his cheeks. βI wasnβt sure how this day was going to go, but somehow, youβve managed to make every moment perfect. You let me take the lead instead of treating me like your personal arm candy. Youβve asked about my feelings. My desires. What I want for myself and for my future. Do you know how long itβs been since a man has asked how I feel? Hell, I could marry you right now and have no remorse given what I was about to walk into.β
βIβm really fucking glad you didnβt marry him.β
βMe too.β
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Hurricanes & Halloween by Katrina Marie
βMy bad.β He doesnβt look sorry at all. The wide grin heβs sporting as he watches the people still staring at us says heβs pretty proud of himself. I donβt blame him, though. He never would have had the confidence to do that at eighteen. Now, in our mid-thirties, heβs sure of what he wants. Even if that person lives hours away from him, and has no idea how we are going to make this work.
βItβs all good.β I lean my head on his shoulder. βIβd say it was more than worth it.β
We sit in silence as the DJ continues to play music downstairs. There are still a couple of hours until this thing ends. And as much as I want to ditch the rest of the party and head straight to our hotel room, I know we should stay a little longer. Especially since our tickets were essentially free. I know the payoff will be fine with Kelly, though. This was her moment to play fairy godmother. Her way of making my wildest dreams come true.
βWant to see what else this party has to offer?β Patrick squeezes my knee. It might be my imagination, but I think his hand moved further up my leg. Thereβs a good chance heβs having the same thoughts I am. Both of us are too polite to voice them aloud.
βSure.β I stand and he does the same. Grabbing my drink, I hook a finger into his belt loop. Not so accidentally grabbing his butt in the process.
βYou keep doing that and Iβll carry you out of here.β
The drinks are working their way through my system because what falls from my lips next is something Iβd never say. βDonβt make promises you canβt keep.β
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Masked Love by Courtney W. Dixon
Greyson sat back in the seat and stared out the window. We were almost there despite the heavy traffic. βHow did we meet?β he asked.
βHmm, how about at my favorite coffee shop? You spilled coffee on me.β
He waved a hand at me. βUgh. Please. That trope has been done to death.β
I huffed a laugh. Seriously, I was going to give him wine more often. βAnd what would you suggest?β
βLetβs keep it relatively realistic and almost the truth since it will be easier to remember the lie.β
βGood at lying, are we?β
He smirked and leaned closer to me. βDid you just make a joke?β
βI never joke.β Which was also a lie.
βAnyway! Letβs say I applied to Nomadology, and you found me so hot and irresistible that I swept you off your feet, and you refused to hire me so you could date me.β
For the first time since I could remember, I barked out a laugh and enjoyed watching him blush.
βWhat? It could happen.β
~
Excerpt- Copyright 2023 Hot Hex on a Platter by Louise Lennox
At this point, I have tunnel vision. Iβm focused on taking out the piece of shit who had the nerve to violate my woman. No one touches or hurts whatβs mine and gets away with it.
I maneuver around him while he continues cursing and swinging, matching his speed and intensity as he advances closer to me with every step. As he reaches out with both arms to grab me, I take a chance, knowing I need to knock his big ass out and get this over with.
I hit him with a powerful uppercut that sends him sprawling onto the ground below.
He lies there motionless as I stare down at him with disgust; the power of my punch had been enough to knock him out cold, and between that and his intoxication, heβll be down for a while.
Tessa rushes over to me, her face filled with worry as she glances at the manβs condition and grimaces.
βThank You. But I had him under control. The violence wasnβt necessary.β
Her voice has a bite of annoyance, but the relief on her face is evident. She didnβt want to admit it, but she liked being rescued, but Iβll gladly admit that saving her has made my dick impossibly hard. I want to love. Protect, and fuck her until she passes out in equal measure.
Maybe there was a chance of staying out of her life if I hadnβt seen her in the flesh. However, now that sheβs within armβs reach, I know Iβll never let her go.
Her sister steps over the unconscious man, who is now snoring loudly and shakes her head. The man she was with was long gone. βTessa, are you kidding me? You couldnβt control him, and I swear if I had known he was that disrespectful, I would have never dragged you up here.β
Tears well up in her sisterβs eyes. βIβm sorry; I should have listened to you.β
Yeah, she should have.
Tessa gives her a sweet smile and pulls her into a hug. βItβs OK; you didnβt know how bad he could be because I never told you how he harassed me in high school. I was too ashamed and thought I was leading him on or something.β
βThis fool harassed you in high school?β I roar. βHe doesnβt deserve to breathe the same air as you.β
Both women look at me like Iβm crazy, but I donβt care. The idea of him hurting my sweet girl in any way makes me want to wake him up to knock him out again.
Tessa looks at me warily. βUmm, thank you, I guess.β
She looks back at Foolio lying on the ground and ponders something before returning to me. I hate the look of worry on her face, and all I want to do is kiss every stress line away.
βLook, Marcus, itβs been a long night. Weβre heading home, and you should probably get home before he wakes up. He will be furious, and Iβd hate seeing you get into trouble on my account.β
I frown. βIβm not scared of him. Didnβt you see me lay his ass out?β
She rolls her eyes. βYes, Action Jackson, we all saw you, but do you even know who you knocked out?β
Exasperated, I step closer and breathe her in. She smells like cherries and doesnβt flinch away like she did with the man lying on the ground. Instead, she subconsciously steps closer to me.
Thatβs because sheβs mine.
I brush the back of my knuckles over her arm. βNo, sweetheart, I donβt know, and I donβt care.β
Her sister Selene snorts and speaks up. βWell, you should care Romeo because heβs Richard Harris, the Chief of Police. What do you have to say now?β
I give her an incredulous look but say nothing.
This canβt be life.
*****
Author Info:
Lauren Helms is a romance author her nerdy and flirty contemporary words. Lauren has forever been an avid reader from the beginning. After starting a book review website, that catapulted her fully into the book world, she knew that something was missing. While working for a video game strategy guide publisher, she decided to mix what she knew best–video games and romance. She decided to take the plunge and write her first novel, Level Me Up. Several published novels later, Lauren created PR company, Indie Pen PR, to help other authors promote their books.
Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three young kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.
Author of emotionally-gripping, contemporary romance, Kate Stacyβs novels feature sassy heroines, swoony heroes, life, love, friendship, and all the angst. When sheβs not writing or spending time with her family and friends in small-town North Carolina, Kate can most likely be found nose deep in her Kindle. She stays up too late, swears too much, and loves too hard.
Mel Walker has been writing fiction most of his adult life. Specializing in Short Stories and Contemporary fiction and Romance Novels. A native New Yorker and life-long frustrated NY Mets fan. He loves to write about ordinary people placed in difficult situations, especially as it relates to their closest relationships.
Mel Walker is a rare bird, the male romance author. Specializing in heartfelt small town romance, he enjoys telling compelling romances with all the feels. A native New Yorkers and life-long frustrated NY Mets fan, he enjoys long walks, bike rides and taking in the energy of the city.
Susan Renee wants to live in a world where paint doesn’t smell, Hogwarts is open twenty-four/seven, and everything is covered in glitter. An indie romance author, Susan has written about everything from tacos to tow-trucks, loves writing romantic comedies but also enjoys creating an emotional angsty story from time to time. She lives in Ohio with her husband, kids, two dogs and a cat. Susan holds a Bachelor and Masters Degree in Music Education and a self-awarded Doctorate in Sass and Sarcasm. She enjoys laughing at memes, speaking in GIFs and spending an entire day jumping down the TikTok rabbit hole. When she’s not writing or playing the role of Mom, her favorite activity is doing the Care Bear stare with her closest friends.
Katrina Marie lives in the Dallas area with her husband, two children, bonus child, grandchild, and fur babies. She is a lover of all things geeky and nerdy. When sheβs not writing you can find her at her childrenβs sporting events, curled up reading a book, or binge watching her favorite shows.
Courtney W. Dixon loves to write steamy romance, but in each story, she gives her character’s challenges and struggles. She writes m/f and m/m stories within one series to add a variety to her characters. And she writes her characters as having flaws, imperfections, and who don’t always do the right thing. Humans are never perfect, and make a lot of mistakes in their lives. In the end, she tries to help them grow to be better as they achieve their HEAs.
You can find Courtney working in Central Texas with her husband, two boys, and two crazy dogs, none of whom know how to knock on a door while she’s working.
Contemporary romance Author Louise Lennox is a hopeful romantic writing steamy romances full of heart and healing.
A Spelman College and Georgetown University graduate, Louise provides women with diverse and meaningful representation in romance novel pages. Not seeing enough women like herself headlining positive love stories, she launched #HappyBlackRomance; a community of readers and writers committed to the creation and sharing of positive romance stories featuring Black heroines.
Louise Lennox plots highlight the joys of Black relationships across the diaspora; pushing readers from all cultural backgrounds to admire them for their strength and downright sexiness. In her novels sparks always fly; the sex amazes; and the characters always leave the world better than they found it through their love.
When sheβs not writing, Louise is enjoying her work as a school leader, wife, and mother of the two cutest dragons to ever walk the earth!
To learn more about #HappyBlackRomance and to score a free book or two, check out her website http://www.lovelouiselennox.com.
Art evaluator Miles Tate is finally about to start living his dreamβ¦ that is if he can get the funding in place to open his own art gallery in New York. But when an unexpected turn of events finds every one of Milesβ perfectly-planned dreams turned upside-down, itβs time to escape Manhattan and reluctantly take up a well-paid job in the tiny seaside town of Hopeβs Bluff, Georgia. For Miles, itβs his only chance to make some money, claw back what little dignity he has left, and figure out what the hell to do with his life.
But evaluating the art collection of a deceased estate isnβt made easy by the grandson of the dearly departed in question. Indeed, the young man who calls himself Rainbow is a hot-tempered, hotter-than-hell artist whose secrets run deep and passions run raw. He is talented, troubled, tempestuous and deaf… and possibly the one person who can save Miles from his own heartache.
Can Miles finish the job heβs been paid to doβ¦ or will two opposites find that they have more in common than they first imagined? Can the pair of them find the strength in each other to rebuild their livesβ¦ or will the traumas of their pasts drive them both away? Will Miles turn his back on the handsome, hurt, artistic genius heβs stumbled uponβ¦ or will he finally find true love in the arms of a Boy Called Rainbow?
Instead, I tried to compose myself, watching as he squeezed paint onto the palette and began mixing colors together.
An intense focus overcame his handsome features, his brow creasing, eyebrows dancing in deep concentration as he conjured up tones and textures until he was happy with the colors heβd created. Then he began to paint. He lathered the brush and took to the canvas like a man at the whim of a spirited muse. He made strokes both large and small. His eyes looked from my reclining body to the canvas and back again. Occasionally he switched tools, biting the brush between his teeth as he grabbed a spatula and slathered thick gobs of paint onto the canvas, before switching back to his brush. At times he abandoned the tools altogether, using his strong hands, his dextrous fingers, to smear and dab the paint before wiping his hands on his chest and abs, unwittingly turning his torso into an artwork of its own.
The vision of this beautiful, naked artist at workβ the sight of his talent unfurling from his hands, his creative genius spilling onto the canvasβ made me want him more desperately than ever before. My cock ached. My lungs burned as I tried to calm my heaving chest. I clenched my fists and he noticed, gesturing for me to loosen my hands and relax my fingers. I did as I was told, counting down the seconds until the painting was done.
As soon as he was finished, he stepped backβ his cock still hard, his brow beaded with sweat, his belly panting with the physical efforts of his creativityβ and looked from the canvas to me and back again once more.
He added several feathery brushstrokes to complete his work.
Then, after putting down the brush and palette, he took the canvas and spun it around for me to see.
I hadnβt really looked at myselfβ I mean, really looked at myselfβ in years. Practically the only reason I looked in the mirror at all in the mornings was to tie my bowtie and make sure my hair didnβt look like a birdβs nest. I suppose after being run out of home all those years ago, I didnβt really see much reason to look too long into the eyes of a man who could be so easily rejected by those who were supposed to love him the most.
But as I looked at the portrait of myself that Rainbow had so masterfully conceivedβ his eyes capturing a vision of myself I had never dreamed of, his hands so skilfully sowing the seeds of his creativityβ I saw something in myself that I hadnβt seen in a long, long timeβ¦ if ever.
The dazzling colors made me bold.
The rough strokes and fearless use of textures made me defiant.
The rawness of my naked body made me brave.
I saw a confidence in myself I almost didnβt recognize.
I saw uniqueness.
I saw beauty.
And all I could wonder wasβ had Rainbow used his paints to create my portraitβ¦ or unravel my mask of insecurity?
I stood from the chaise lounge and walked slowly up to Rainbowβs work of art, my eyes fixed, my heart spellbound.
βThis is me?β At first the words came out as a question, but as he gave me the painting and I took it in my hands, the question mark vanished. βThis is me.β
*****
Review:
The villains in the story were a bit … over the top. Rainbow’s brother might as well be twirling his mustache and cackling (he does stroke his goatee, does that count?). The family has an almost fanatical hatred of Rainbow and Franklin is set on taking everything away from him now that their grandmother has died. It’s a little much and might come across as cartoonish for some but it is a vehicle to bring the mains together and team up with some of the more quirky townsfolk.
I do wish we’d gotten Rainbow’s perspective, get an idea of his feelings about his family as well as his feelings towards Miles. I think that he’d have a unique voice and also it would help readers feel like he’s participating fully in what happens. But being a single POV we have to infer a lot and it’s a bit of a missed opportunity.
I do like Miles. He’s a little frumpy in his personality but he’s got a good heart. The effort he puts into his relationship with Rainbow, to helping him and understanding him, is sweet. It may be a little fast, especially with how his last relationship imploded, but if you go into it knowing there’s a bit of insta-love I think it’ll be more enjoyable.
With quirky characters, outrageously vile villains, and a touch of magic thanks to Rainbow’s grandmother, A Boy Called Rainbow isn’t going to be for everyone. But I think that it’ll definitely be a hit with the right audience.
*****
Author Info:
Robin Knight is the author of gay fiction novels, novellas, and short stories, ranging in genre from gay adventure, gay romance, gay suspense, and gay comedies.
The heroes of Robin’s books love to spend their time jumping off the page, stumbling through misadventures, and falling in love.
Robin has worked in advertising, politics, journalism, and event management, but nothing is as fun as telling stories.
A rich heiress down on her luck and a brooding mechanic from the wrong side of the tracks make sparks fly. Readers who enjoy small town romance will love Uptown Girl by Emma Bray, a steamy, opposites attract, beach romance.
Uptown Girl
Man of the Month: September
Candy Cane Key series
by Emma Bray
Blurb:
Are you ready to meet your next Man of the Month?
A rich girl down on her luck and a brooding mechanic make sparks fly in this small-town, opposites attract beach romance about a rich heiress and a guy from the wrong side of the tracks.
The MAN OF THE MONTH CLUB is a steamy small-town collection featuring a new hottie (or two!) every month. In 2023, escape to Candy Kane Key, Florida, and celebrate ALL the holidays with your favorite group of romance authors and their delicious mountain men. Canβt wait to see you there!
The purr of my pink Cadillac’s engine fills the air as I pull into the garage, echoing off the walls and sending a shiver down my spine. I’ve been through hell and back lately, but one look at this place tells me I’m in good hands.
“Hey there,” a deep voice calls out, snapping me from my thoughts. The rugged mechanic approaches me, his hands wiping on a greasy rag. The sight of him makes my heart race, and I find myself struggling to maintain my composure.
The sight of his thick arms pumping up and down as he wipes the oil from his hands to his sleeves has my heart beating out of my chest. I can feel my body flush with desire as I watch him, a nervous smile spreading across my face.
I can see his lips moving, but his words are drowned out by the sound of my heart pounding in my ears. He’s beautiful, in a rugged sort of way. His chest is huge and muscled, and his arms are thick. His dirty, ripped jeans fit him perfectly, and I wonder if they’re going to burst at the seams. His black work shirt is unbuttoned, revealing a chiseled, ripped torso. His arms are sculpted, leading to a bulge in his jeans. He’s the most handsome man I’ve ever seen.
“Welcome to Wolf’s Garage. I’m Billy. What can I do for you?”
“Hi, I’m Claire,” I stammer, my cheeks flushing with heat. “I, uh, think my car needs an oil change.”
As soon as our eyes meet, I feel the connection. My lingering gaze alights on his rugged features β the stubble lining his strong jaw, the gentle curve of his full lips, the intensity in those blue eyes that seem to see straight through me. And when Billy smiles at me β a crooked, teasing grin that makes my heart skip a beat β I know without a doubt that this attraction is mutual.
“Your car’s a real beauty,” he says, nodding towards my pink Cadillac as he leans against the side of it. “You don’t come across many like her these days.”
“Thank you,” I reply, my voice barely above a whisper. The air between us is electric, charged with an energy I can’t quite put my finger on, and I find myself wondering just how much of it is simply a product of my overactive imagination.
“Mind if I have a look under the hood?” he asks, his gaze never leaving mine.
Copyright 2023 Emma Bray
*****
Author Info:
USA Today bestselling author Emma Bray writes intense, steamy romances with possessive alpha males whoβll stop at nothing to claim the women they want. Emmaβs instalove stories are filled with heat, passion and happily ever afters. Get a free book when you sign up here: http://www.authoremmabray.com
People and pets find their forever homes in this charming small-town romance from Babette de Jongh featuring:
*A single mom doing her best *Her young son who needs a helping hand *An animal trainer who might be the answer to their troubles *A bustling animal rescue where everyone gets a second chance *The magic of humans who know how to communicate with animals
Coming Home to Magnolia BayΒ
Welcome to Magnolia Bay Book 3
by Babette De Jongh
Genre: Small Town Contemporary Romance
Blurb:
Sara Prescottβs eight-year-old son Max wants a dog. But their apartment doesnβt allow pets, and the divorced single mom canβt afford the certified seizure-alert dog Max needs. Instead, she and Max volunteer at the Furever Love Animal Shelter. Max forms a special bond with Jett, a big black bully breed and three-time loser who keeps getting dumped.
Animal Trainer Justin Reed comes back home to Magnolia Bay and visits the shelter to find a dog actor for a TV series set in nearby New Orleans. Justin chooses Jett, but the shelterβs director rejects his application because Jett needs a finally-forever home, not a job with an end date. The shelterβs resident animal communicator proposes a win-win. Justin can use Jett as an animal actor if he also trains Jett as a service dog for Max.
Sara and Justin have no business indulging their mutual attraction. Sara is focused on her son, and Justin will be leaving soon. But Max and Jett have other ideasβ¦
βClose your eyes,β Reva said in an Iβm-about-to-hypnotize-you tone. βAllow the seat to support your body. Relax into it.β
Justin sighed, releasing a little of the tension heβd been holding on to. Maybe if the telepathy thing didnβt work, sheβd let him take a nap.
βPut your focus on your breath, on the sound of your breathing, on the feeling of the air moving into your body and filling your lungs.β
The sound of the carβs tires receded, and he found that it wasnβt so hard after all to focus on his breathing.
βNow, imagine that your body is an empty straw, and that your breath is moving through you, coming up from the soles of your feet when you inhaleβ¦then moving back down through your body from the top of your head when you exhale.β
She paused while he took a few slow breaths. βHowβre you doing?β
βMmm.β He might fall asleep if she didnβt hurry up with the animal telepathy bit.
βImagine what it would look like if you were sitting in a quiet room with Jett. Imagine it like itβs a movie scene youβre remembering. Youβre sitting in a soft, comfortable chair, and you see Jett walk up and sit in front of you. Imagine him giving you his attention as if heβs waiting for your next command.β She waited a few beats. βCan you imagine it?β
βYes.β But he couldnβt believe that imagining scenes in his mind had anything to do with animal communication.
βGood. Hold on to that scene in your mind. In a minute, youβre going to ask Jett a question. He might answer with words, or you might imagine a visual image like a snapshot or a short movie clip. Or he might send emotions or even the memory of a taste or a smell. Are you ready?β
βYes.β But even as he said the word, anxiety skittered through him. What if he couldnβt do it?
Even more disturbing, what if he could?
βAsk Jett to let you know where he is.β
Justinβs anxiety intensified. The visual image of Jett and him sitting together in a room had fled his mind, leaving nothing but darkness. Strange swirls of color and light bloomed behind his closed eyelids. βI donβt see anything. Just color and light and swirls of energy.β
βYouβre trying to see with your eyes. Thatβs not the way telepathic images come through. Itβll feel more like dreaming or like remembering something that happened a long time ago. Like remembering a place youβve been or the way someoneβs voice sounded.β
He quit focusing on the swirling energy behind his eyelids and tried to recapture the visual of him and Jett sitting together. A flash of somethingβlike a word he was trying to remember but couldnβtβcaught his attention but faded before he could catch it. He made a sound of frustration.
βThatβs okay,β Reva said in a calm, quiet voice. βJust start over.β
Once again, he brought that image to mind, of Jett sitting in front of him, waiting for instruction on what to do next. The snapshot morphed into a movie clipβ¦ Justin imagined Jett coming closer and propping his chin on Justinβs knee. Justin manipulated the scenario by reaching out and stroking Jettβs head. He imagined himself leaning forward and asking the question again. βWhere are you?β
Water. The word popped into Justinβs mind, immediate and clear. Then he remembered going to the river with his parents when he was very small. He remembered being afraid to step into the muddy waves. Afraid that heβd be swept away.
His father had been so angry, so dismissive of Justinβs fears. Heβd picked Justin up by the arms and thrown him backward into the cold water. It had hit him like a smack on the backside, then shot up his nose and down his throat when he went under. Anxiety swamped him, and he sat up, shaking his head to dispel the vivid memory. βThis isnβt working.β
*****
Catch up with the rest of the series:
Warm Nights in Magnolia Bay
Welcome to Magnolia Bay Book 1
Welcome to Magnolia Bay where: *The animals interfere in their owners’ love lives *Everyone (humans and animals alike) has an opinion about everything *The neighbor is as infuriating as he is gorgeous *And a sprinkle of hope is just the right thing to have you believing in love again
Abby Curtis lands on her Aunt Reva’s doorstep at Bayside Barn with nowhere to go but up. Learning animal communication from her aunt while taking care of the motley assortment of rescue animals on the farm is an important part of Abby’s healing process. She is eager to begin a new life on her own, but she isn’t prepared for the magnetism between her and her handsome, stubborn and distracting new neighbor.
Quinn Lockhart snapped up the foreclosed estate next door determined to renovate and flip the beautiful bayou property. It’s all part of a plan to make a financial comeback and reconnect with his estranged son. Definitely not part of the plan is the noisy petting zoo next door dragging down his property value. But getting rid of it becomes more difficult when he falls for the lovely and passionate Abby and bonds with an abandoned wolf dog who’s mournfully waiting for his family to return. For humans and animals alike, it will take all the courage they can muster to learn to love again. But that’s a journey worth takingβwith a little help from their furry friends.
You’ll fall in love right along with Abby as animals and humans alike find unexpected ways to connect, nurture each other, and thrive.
Babette de Jongh brings you a bright and hopeful romance filled with: *People and animals who get a second chance *A community that makes everyone feel at home *Friends-to-lovers romance that proves everyone deserves a forever home
Struggling widow Heather Gabriel takes a job at Magnolia Bay’s Animal Shelter to provide for her family. She isn’t ready to be anything more than colleagues with Adrian Crawford, the shelter’s new business consultant. But the shelter’s animal communication expert Reva Curtis knows there’s more attraction between Heather and Adrian than they let on, and she’s determined to bring them together. With the help of Heather’s three children and all the animals at Bayside Barn, Heather and Adrian soon realize they can have a future togetherβ¦if they can let go of the past.
Small town romance will never look the same once you’ve traveled to Magnolia Bay!
“Charmingβ¦a satisfying blend of romance and animal cameos.”βDEBBIE BURNS, bestselling author of the Rescue Me series
“Babette de Jongh’s books are crafted with heart and humor, roaring heat and cuddly love.”βJOANN SKY, author of the Biggest Little Love Story series
**Celebrate National Black Dog Day on Oct 1 with Hear Them Speak!**
Hear Them SpeakΒ
A Twelve-Week Course in Telepathic Animal Communication
by Babette de Jongh
Genre: Nonfiction, Pets, Animal Communication
Would you like to know what your animal companion is really thinking? If you’re holding this book, the ability is literally within your grasp. Hear Them Speak is an engaging and easy-to-follow twelve week course that guides you through the process of discovering your own superpowers of telepathic animal communication. With real-life examples to increase understanding and tasks to help you practice your emerging skills, animal communicator Babette de Jongh walks you through every step of the journey to claim your innate ability to hear them speak.Β
Babette de Jongh is a telepathic animal communicator, energy healer, Reiki Master, and award-winning romance writer who has taught ballet, yoga, elementary school, and animal communication. Whether it involves a happy-ending romance, a way of self-nurturing, or help in understanding our companions, the cohesive thread that ties all these things together is a desire to save the world, one happy ending at a time.
Babetteβs first romance novel, Angel Falls, won two Readersβ Choice awards. In Hear Them Speak, Babette helps humans better understand their animal companions. In Welcome to Magnolia Bay, a romance series from Sourcebooks Casablanca, a telepathic animal communicator conspires with the human charactersβ animal companions to help everyoneβhumans and animalsβfind forever love.
All this is only the beginning for a late bloomer who is just getting started. To find out more about Babette, everything she does, and everything sheβs up to these days, please visit her website at http://www.BabettedeJongh.com.
The hometown hockey hero and his best friendβs brotherβ¦
Vinnie
Hockey is in my blood. I learned to skate before I learned how to ride a bike. Iβve been on a wild ride, playing at the highest level for some of the biggest and best teams in the league. But now itβs over, and Iβm not sure what to do with myself.
So I’m going home to Elmwood.
But Iβll tell you what Iβm not gonna doβIβm not going to coach my buddyβs junior hockey league. No chance. I donβt know how to deal with kids, and besides, the other coachβwho happens to be my best friendβs brotherβhates me. With reason.
That may be old news, yet something tells me weβre going to have to deal with the past.
And that’s almost as scary as coaching teens.
Nolan
No, I donβt hate Vinnie, but he drives me nuts.
Heβs cocky, goofy, selfish, and yeahβ¦after all these years, Iβm still attracted to him. But Iβm a responsible adult now. I run my familyβs business, and with the help of my ex, Iβve made Elmwood Diner into a New England institution.
So maybe my life isn’t particularly exciting at the moment, and maybe Vinnie isnβt the worst. Nonetheless, I have no desire to rekindle a friendship with the hockey hero who no doubt will be on the first flight out of town the second he gets bored or gets a better offer.
And Iβm not coaching with him. No way.
Ughβ¦
I canβt believe Iβm doing this again.
You, Again is an MM bisexual, best friendβs brother, frenemies to lovers romance featuring old friends, a new quest, and a little hockey HEA!
Vinnie set a twenty on the table and stood. βThanks for the coffee.β
βItβs on the house,β I insisted, pushing the money toward him.
βNo, no. I support local businesses. Keep the change.β
His over-the-top wink practically begged me to roll my eyes, but I had more to say. We had to clear the airβ¦at least a little.
βUmβ¦hey, even if you donβt make it through summer, your presence alone is good for business for the whole town. βNHL Hero Comes Homeβ and all that bullshit. If you donβt mind the attention, and Iβm assuming you donβtβcome help out at the rink. Itβs easy and fun. You wonβt regret it.β
Vinnie rubbed his scruffy jaw thoughtfully. βOkay. Iβll do it.β
I smiled tentatively and raised my hand for a high five. βGreat.β
βBut only if youβre my assistant.β
βWhat?β I pulled my hand away before he could slap it, furrowing my brow. βNo way. Gavin is perfectly capable ofββ
βNope. It has to be you.β
I frowned. βWhy?β
β βCauseβ¦β Vinnie blew out an exasperated breath. βI want to fix this. Me and you. And I canβt do that if you ignore me.β
And just like that, the invisible wall between us shook in its foundation.
βWeβre fine,β I bluffed.
Vinnie arched a brow. βYouβre mad at me. I know why, and I get it. We donβt have to go into it now, but at the very least, we should call a truce βcause if weβre working with impressionable teens, you really oughtta be nice to me, Moore.β
My mouth opened in a perfect O. βIβve been perfectly civil to you. More civil than you deserve, Kiminski.β
βSee? That wasnβt nice,β he teasingly scolded. βI canβt believe Iβm the voice of reason here.β
I fixed him with a bored sardonic stare. βYou are never the voice of reason.β
βI kind of am now.β
βNo, you arenβt.β
βYes, I am.β
βNo, youβoh, my God.β I pointed at the door. βGood-bye, Vinnie.β
He snickered, flashing a lopsided devil-may-care grin my way. βWait up. Letβs seal the deal on this truce.β
βOh, brother.β
βIβm serious. Letβs shake hands, hug it out, kiss and make up, or all of the above.β
I regarded his outstretched hand suspiciously and cautiously slid my palm against his. βFine. Truce.β
βSee, that didnβt sound friendly. You ruined it. Gimme a hug,β he demanded, pulling me into a bear hug, squeezing me hard enough to crack a rib.
I let out an oomph of surprise and tried to wriggle out of his hold. He took the hint and loosened his grip. I knew it was all in good fun or at least meant to playfully rile me up, but when he bent to kiss my cheek, I turned my head just as he swooped in and bam! Our lips collided in an actual, honest-to-God kiss.
A fucking kiss.
I couldnβt speak for Vinnie, but I was too shocked to move.
Weβd been here before.
Sure, it had been almost twenty years ago, but I was positive neither of us was looking for a repeat. I certainly wasnβt. Any second now, heβd back up, swipe his hand across his mouth and make some ridiculous joke to right the balance. But he didnβt.
He softened his lips and molded them to mine, tilting his chin as if testing a new angle. And suddenly, this felt real.
Oh, no.
Ohβ¦no.
I pushed out of his arms, sucking in a gulp of air.
Holy shit.
My heart beat like a drum, and my mouth was bone dry.
βI thinkβI think weβre good now,β I rasped.
Vinnieβs shell-shocked expression gave way to something unreadable. He scratched his nape and stepped aside.
βYeah. Uhβ¦what time is practice?β
βThursday at three.β
He nodded and tried a smile that never reached his eyes. βCool. See ya, Nol.β
I froze in place as the door swung shut behind him, willing my heartbeat to calm the fuck down.
Did that happen?
It wasnβt real. I knew that, but he didnβt pull away. He lingered, he pressed closer, heβ¦he kissed me.
Reality check: Vinnie was a notorious prankster. He was always doing something to push boundariesβmake you laugh, make you mad, make you stop taking life so damned seriously. Silly was his fallback language. If lighthearted pranks and teasing kept some uncomfortable parts of the past at bay, I was all for it.
But I was still confused. Very confused.
*****
Review:
I’m going to say straight up that I’m pretty sure the reason I didn’t like this one as much as the other books by Lane Hayes that I’ve read is … me. I just didn’t like Vinnie as a character. He’s one of those overgrown guy’s guys that just irritates me to no end. He’s in his late 30s, still giving people noogies, playing practical jokes, and acts the class clown. Not that I’m against people having fun but that’s not my idea of fun and that colored my reading of the book. I get that he’s got a lot of issues – from his mother’s death to his father’s absentee parenting to coming to grips with his future and sexuality. But I just couldn’t let the rest go to really invest in him. When he was more serious, though, I definitely could see the appeal.
On the other hand, I loved Nolan. He’s a pillar of the community and his family, a fabulously loving & supportive uncle, and once he gets over the way things ended between them he’s there for Vinnie too. Even knowing it most likely means another broken heart.
I always enjoy Hayes’s writing — she gives readers robust characters (even when they aren’t my type), compelling stories, and satisfying HEAs. And I’m definitely excited to see what happens next – the little teaser with JC has me impatient to see him and Riley together. This one character being not my favorite in no way reflects on Hayes and her skills, it’s just a me thing.
*****
Author Info:
Lane Hayes loves a good romance! An avid reader from an early age, she has always been drawn to well-told love story with beautifully written characters.Β She loves wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband and her fabulous pup, George.
The ice is my happy place. My sanctuary. The source of my happiest memories, and the promise of my future. Itβs also the reason Iβm living a lie.
As a kid you donβt think about the sacrifices youβll have to make for your dreams. After all, dreams are supposed to be happy, so all you see is the finish line, not what youβll have to give up to get there.
I surrendered a carefree childhood to hours upon hours of grueling practices. Abandoned life with my family in favor of a boarding school that would hone my skills to perfection. But my biggest sacrifice, the one I couldnβt predict Iβd have to make as a little boy, is denying who I am.
To the world Iβm the top rookie in this yearβs NHL draft. The most promising defender the league has seen in years. For years thatβs all I wanted to be, and now that Iβm hereβ¦
I knew my career would intersect with my personal life at some point, I just didnβt expect it to happen before I played my first pro game.
Thatβs why he is so dangerous. My lifelong dream is within reach, and now thereβs another I want to pursue. If only it werenβt such bad pucking timing.
βWhatβs your address?β I change the subject, pulling my phone from my pocket to open my contacts. βI need to get an Uber back to my car.β
βUh, uh. No address until I get your phone number.β He smiles triumphantly around a mouthful of coffee.
βDidnβt Tripp already give you my information so you could deliver me home last night? Which you clearly didnβt do.β I make a show of looking at the room around me.
Niko rubs the bridge of his nose. βHe gave me your address, which I lost while I was trying to copy it in the Uber app, so no.β
βTypical jock.β I canβt stop the corner of my lip from ticking up as I shake my head.
βDonβt avoid the subject,β he barks. βPhone number, or youβre walking. And stop pretending you donβt like jocks.β
βI donβt.β
βYou like me.β
βI tolerate you.β I drink my coffee to disguise what Iβm pretty sure is a grin.
βYou tolerate hockey. You like me. That smile youβre trying to hide says so.β He crosses his arms in front of his broad chest with a proud smirk.
I look at him from under hooded eyes. βStill not fucking you, Nikolas.β Flirting yes, fucking no.
βYetβ¦ Alexander.β His blue eyes seem to promise thereβs a distinction.
Jesus heβs going to give me a semi.
βAddress.β I tap the screen of my cell.
βPhone number.β
βAddress first.β
βSame time.β He slides his phone toward me and picks mine up, arching a sly brow as he waits for me to meet his challenge.
βFine.β We each tap at the screens, entering the information, and the moment my phone is back in my hand it starts to vibrate.
βJust checking.β He flashes me those coy dimples.
*****
Review:
Xander, still a little burned by a relationship gone bad, is comfortable in his life and pretty much only looking for a good time. Meeting a hottie at the bar for a night of great sex and a definite connection … not his usual but he’ll never see him again. Well, not until Xander finds him in his dad’s backyard and discovers that his one night stand is the newest member of his dad’s hockey team.
Niko is new to town and thrilled to see Xander again. But things are complicated – not only does he play for Xander’s dad but he’s also not exactly looking to broadcast his sexuality the first year of his NHL career. But that connection is still there and one night of great sex turns into more. Can they figure out how to balance their needs and wants?
I loved Niko’s teammates. They are a hoot and help support him as he figures out how to be a pro player, to settle into his new life. And Xander’s friend Tripp is definitely a highlight, with how he supports them in his own way and how he unabashedly enjoys life.
I enjoyed the start of Lenard’s Colorado Bulldogs series. There’s some drama, but not too much. Lots of steam, but there can never be too much. A grumpy/sunshine mix that can go bad but is a delight when done right (which it was). And entertaining secondary characters that are just begging for their own stories. A good mix of humor and heat, Bad Pucking Timing is a fun first book and I’m all for finding out what’s coming up next!
*****
Author Info:
Michele is a tomboy who writes contemporary romance (usually sports themed) that is both sweet and steamy. Her goal is to make you fan your face as you wipe a tear from your eye. Her books are part of a series but there are no cliffhangers so each can be read as a standalone. When she isn’t reading or writing she enjoys the outdoors, something that pops up in her books from time to time.
Romantic Reads and Such 