Spotlight – Fitting the Financier

15 Friday Dec 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

Tags

Candy Cane Key, Fitting the Financier, Man of the Month Club, Robecca Austin

In this small town romance, a woman must find a way to keep her home, resist the charms of her best friend’s father while dodging a nosey neighbor and avoid being caught under mistletoes. Readers who love rags to riches romance will enjoy Fitting the Financier by Robecca Austin, a steamy, small town, billionaire, age gap, IR romance.

Fitting the Financier

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: December

by Robecca Austin

Blurb:

She’s made for me.

The perfect combination of sassy, sweet, and sexy, with generous thighs to cushion my heartache. She’s also my daughter’s best friend, forbidden.

Despite my daughter’s wishes, I have no plans to visit the small town or partake in the festivities of mistletoes and pumpkin spice lattes this Christmas. For good reason. One look into her best friend’s stormy gray eyes and I’ll want no one except her to fill the void in my life.

But when Naomi needs my protection, how can I say no?

She thinks I’m helping her out of charity, but she’s wrong. I can crush bullies, and using that power is the distraction I need to break my desires for her.

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

“You’re staring.” He passes me a pouch.

“Am I?” The peanuts are warm in my hand. The scent of caramelized sugar tickles my nose.

“Now you’re flushing. If I didn’t know better I’d say you’re having naughty thoughts about the side of my digits.”

I choke on a nut. My eyes water. “I think the reference is to shoe sizes.” I make a point to glance at his snickers.

“Twelves, baby.” He wiggles a brow.

This time I chomp on the nut before it goes anywhere near my throat. “I was thinking your hands belong to a mechanic not a person working in city hall.”

“Give me half a chance and I can show you what these hands are good for.”

“Travis…” I flush, not because I’m a prude, but because despite the lovely evening, Charity’s dad is at the edge of my thoughts. I blame Charity for mentioning him, for convincing him to visit Candy Cane. Most of all, I blame myself for falling for a man who didn’t know I existed beyond being his daughter’s best friend.

“Get your head out of the gutter,” Travis says with a smile that I wished set my heart on fire. “I noticed you didn’t have any Christmas decorations up yet. Any later and the entire town will write to the big man himself.” He glances around him, then whispers. “Or worse, put a complaint in with the city.”

I groan. He’s only half joking. Candy Cane had a Chrsitmas committee of four grandmothers that took their positions as seriously as the mayor. There hasn’t been a change in membership since Carter was president and unless one died, their word is law when it comes to Christmas.

“I’ve just been—”

“Hey, no need to explain.”

But I want to. Want to share my good news with someone other than Charity. “I recently received good news that will help my business.”

“That’s amazing.”

“And nerve racking but it’s an opportunity to grow.”

“You’re not trying to let me down easily, are you?” He searched my face.

I shook my head. “No.” This is my chance to have a fresh beginning all around. It is definitely time I put a stop to this madness I feel for Nathan and get a hold of my love life. I realize that I went about my dating life the wrong way. Pushing Travis away or engrossing myself in work isn’t the answer to forgetting Nathan Dawan. Dating is. Nights like tonight are. We are at the end of the path. The end of a beautiful evening. “Sorry it took so long to make tonight happen.”

He paused, taking my hand. I stared at our hands. This was nice in a gentle, reassuring sort of way. My middle didn’t flutter from the mere thought of him and his name didn’t have my pulse racing. “You’re worth the wait Naomi Waters.”

We’re caught in a loop of staring into each other’s eyes. I will myself to relax, drown in the blue sea staring back at me but all I see are Nathan’s dark intense eyes that mimic the howling winds of a category four hurricane.

Travis leans in and my stomach flutters. The feeling is so unexpected that my eyes widen instead of closing in anticipation of our first kiss and I gasp. He tosses his peanuts aside to cup my cheek. My lips part to tell him to wait…that I’m not ready, but no words escape.

Not a single one.

The distance closes between us and I slam my eyes such, too afraid he’ll see my thoughts for another man in my eyes. The first kiss I’d shamelessly envisioned having with him.

“You really shouldn’t litter,” came an icy tone.

Shit. Shit. I’m even hearing his voice. Squeezing my eyes tighter, I pucker my lips like a tenth grader and concentrate on what is about to happen.

“Naomi!” Nathan growls, the sound bouncing behind my eyelids. I try harder to block him out. He’s only in your imagination.

I count to five and wait.

*****

Author Info:

Robecca Austin is the author of happy ever after romance stories. She enjoys crafting tales of sassy heroines and alpha heroes that have a soft center.

She writes historical romance and billionaire romance stories.

You can find her outside enjoying nature and lots of sunshine when there are no bugs. When she’s not writing her next novel, she’s busy battling Cystic Fibrosis and hugging family. She lives and works in Canada.

*****

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR.

Spotlight – Coming Down Her Chimney

01 Friday Dec 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Tags

Candy Cane Key, Coming Down Her Chimney, Imani Jay, Man of the Month Club

Kareem spent his teen years fighting his growing desires for his sister’s best friend, Amy. Now, he’s taking part in a charity bachelor auction and his sister wins the bid… for her bestie. Readers who love holiday romances with bachelor auctions will enjoy Coming Down Her Chimney by Imani Jay, a steamy, small town, sister’s best friend, second chance romance.

Coming Down Her Chimney

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: December

by Imani Jay

Blurb:

Amy
My bestie dragged me to the lovely beach town where her parents retired. What she failed to mention is her brother, superstar basketball player (and my lifelong crush…), Kareem, is also here…

Kareem
I spent my teens fighting my growing desires for my sister’s best friend. And seeing Amy again after all this time? She looks even better. And she’s still the sweet, funny, smart girl I could never forget…

What happens when Kareem takes part in the local Charity Bachelor Auction and his sister wins the bid… for her bestie.

Tag along for a safe, steamy, second chance romance with no cheating, no cliffhanger and a guaranteed HEA!

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

I push open the heavy glass door of our office building, the cold, San Francisco December air hitting my cheeks. I hurry inside, my heels clicking on the polished marble floors. As I make my way past the rows of cubicles, I catch a glimpse of myself in the dark computer screens – my curly hair bouncing around my shoulders, my brown eyes peering out from under thick lashes.

I plop down at my desk, setting my coffee, purse and laptop bag down. I boot up my computer, the screen lighting up. Numbers, always numbers. Sometimes I dream in debits and credits.

As I open up the latest expense reports, my mind drifts to the coming holidays. While my coworkers chat about their ski trips and what parties they’ll attend, I’ll be spending Christmas in the real cold with my sister and her family in Virginia. The thought of the frigid winter depresses me. I crave sunshine on my skin, sand between my toes. But my traitor parents left the city for a Caribbean cruise, so it’s whether a solo holiday in my apartment or family time on the East Coast.

I’m interrupted from my daydream by the ringing of my phone. I smile when I see the name flash on the screen.

“Hey Lisa!” I answer.

My best friend’s bubbly voice comes through the receiver. “Ami! How’s my favorite girl?”

We chat about life, work. As always, her law firm is keeping her busy. Then Lisa asks me about my holiday plans, and I sigh.

“Pfff, my parents went on their cruise. So it’s Virginia with my sister or just me, takeout, and Netflix. I’ll live vicariously through your tropical vacation pictures.”

Lisa gasps. “Oh my god! I can’t believe I didn’t think to invite you sooner. Come down to my parents’ beach house with us!”

My eyes go wide. THE beach house? In Florida? That sounds like a dream. But imposing on their family holiday…

“Are you sure that’s okay?” I ask hesitantly.

Lisa scoffs. “Of course! You know Mom and Dad love you. And I could really use my bestie to help with all the holiday activities’ organization.”

I chew on my bottom lip, considering. A warm beach vacation with Lisa and her awesome family does sound amazing. Way better than sitting alone in my apartment or going to freeze my butt at Marie’s.

“Alright, I’m in!” I finally say. Lisa squeals in excitement. And as we discuss travel plans, I can’t keep the grin off my face. No snow for me this Christmas – I’m heading for sunshine and sand!

Lisa fills me in on the details – I’ll fly into Tampa next week and drive down to the Keys to meet them.

“And we can talk about you and my brother,” she teases.

I feel my cheeks heat. Lisa laughs.

I suck my teeth. “Girl, leave me alone.”

Truth is, I’ve had the biggest crush on Kareem Mason forever. The first time Lisa invited me to her house back when we were in high school and became inseparable. But he’s always been older, cooler, waaayyy out of my league. And now, he’s a successful, rich and famous basketball player. I’m just me – no way he’d ever look at me as more than his little sister’s best friend.

The thought of him makes my pulse quicken. I push that to the far corners my mind.

“I’m just looking forward to sunshine and piña coladas,” I say breezily.

“Uh huh, sure,” Lisa teases. “Well, I better get back to it. I have no intention of taking any work with me, and

I hope you do the same. Get ready for the best holiday ever, bestie!”

We say our goodbyes and I set the phone down, shaking my head with amusement. A week lounging on the beach sounds like heaven.

I start mentally packing my bikinis and sunscreen, daydreaming about crystal blue waves.

*****

Author Info:

Imani loves reading romances with curvy queens who find their HEA with alpha hunks, so that’s what she writes! If you enjoy sweet and spicy stories filled with fun, heat and all the feels, you’re in the right place!

*****

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR.

Spotlight – Hot Stuff

15 Wednesday Nov 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Tags

Ashton Brooks, Candy Cane Key, Hot Stuff, Man of the Month Club

This man of the month has it all, but his world goes up in smoke when a saucy out-of-town woman crashes into his life. If only she would let him capture her heart. Readers who love Sweet on Wilde by Fabiola Francisco and Something That Could Last by Ashley Cade will enjoy Hot Stuff by Ashton Brooks, a steamy, small town, enemies-to-lovers, cinnamon roll hero, thriller, found family romance.

Hot Stuff

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: November

by Ashton Brooks

Blurb:

This man of the month has it all. His own pizza restaurant, a family of five loving sisters and a mother who dotes on him, best friends he can always count on, and he’s one of the town’s most eligible bachelors. Watch as his world goes up in smoke when a saucy out-of-town woman crashes into his life. If only she would let him capture her heart.

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

“CalSone Day?” I read the banner that is currently being hung up outside our family restaurant in preparation for the big celebration that is a week away.

“Joseph, it’s Cal-Zone. With a Z!” I yell up at him, and watch his body sway slightly on the ladder. He looks over it and checks his phone.

“That is a Z,” he shouts back and waves his hand over the sign.

“It’s a fucking S.” I growl back. “Hold on.” I leave him and head into the restaurant to find my backup. Thank god all five of my sisters are in today so they can back me up. Our mother is in the kitchen preparing for the big event, so I won’t bug her, but the rest of them are needed.

“Rosie, I need you all,” I whistle at her from behind the register, waving her outside. The look she shoots me is as sharp as daggers, but I know it’s only because I dared call her in such a manner. She must see the frustration on my face though, because her scowl quickly turns to concern.

I hear her yell for the others and I let the door shut while I keep an eye on Joseph. He’s mumbling to himself, words I can’t hear, but the redness on his cheeks shows he must have realized he’s wrong.

“What the heck, Rome?” My oldest sister, Romi, flings her hands up in the air. She’s scowling at me, and I meet her raised brows with my own. The rest of them follow out and stand amongst each other.

“What happened?” Rumer asks, and I love that, as usual, she remains the calmest in the chaos. She’s the second oldest child and she has always been the peacekeeper.

“I don’t know, he flipped a lid inside and said we all had to be out here,” Rosie lifts her shoulders. She is the youngest in our family so I can’t help but smile at her, even though she isn’t helping me.

“The sign,” I point up at it and all five sets of dark eyes, the one trait we all share, jump to where the hanging red tarp is.

“Cal..Sone Day,” Reagan reads, and I see her brow furrow. “With an S?”

“Ahh, fuck,” Remi, the sister closest to me in age, laughs, “Joseph, what the hell did you do?” She is the wildest of my sisters, and she cusses about as much as I do, much to our mother’s dismay.

“It says Calsone Day!” He yells down at all of us.

“Calzone is spelt with a Z, Joseph,” Romi snaps back, her big- sister voice coming out. She sounds scarily like our mother when she does that, and Joseph is speechless.

“Baby,” Joseph calls to her, “My phone says S. I’ll change it, I’ll change it.” He throws his hands in the air and starts taking down the sign.

I wait him out, my hands on my hips, standing next to Romi. Joseph is her new fiancé, and he’s been trying to help out around the restaurant, but he still gets on my nerves.

“Quit scowling at him,” She whispers next to me and nudges her elbow into my side.

I grunt from the impact and turn to her with a smirk, “It’s not my fault the guy can’t spell Calzone right. And he wants to work here? Take over a share?”

“He doesn’t want a share,” She sighs and stomps her foot, something all the women in my family are known for, “He just wants to be part of the business with us. I would think that is what you all would want. We need the extra hands. Rumer’s baby is due in a month, and her shift will need to be picked up.”

“Romi,” I slide my arm around her shoulders, “It will be fine. And leave Joseph to me. He needs to learn just like Tommy did for Rumer. And now look, he’s the best meat guy in the town.”

“I know you mean well Rome, but we both know that Joseph will never be good enough in your eyes. You hold grudges like no one else, and the fact that he ran over your bike tire when you were ten still makes you mad,” She argues, and I see the turmoil in her eyes.

“It was a great bike,” I shrug my shoulders.

“Roman!”

“I’m kidding,” I give her a squeeze, “I will try and take it easier on him. Once he fixes the damn sign.”

Romi huffs, shaking her head, but I do see a small smile on her lips. She heads back into the restaurant, and my gaze finds its way back to Joseph, who is rolling up the sign and tapping away on his phone.

“Are we good?”

His eyes shoot up to mine, “I ordered a new one, with rush delivery. It will get here before Wednesday.”

“Great. We can hang it up right as everyone is walking in,” I grunt and shake my head. Joseph grabs his bag and his ladder, and scurries to his work truck. I watch him drive away and try to remember to breathe in and out.

Calzone Day needs to be perfect. It’s a staple holiday at Mohagen’s, and has been since my grandfather first built it here in Candy Cane Key. My father, Rebel, inherited it from him, and when he married mother, they took it over. Their wedding reception was hosted here, all six of us were raised in these kitchens, and took afternoon naps in the booth. The sign needs to be perfect. We can’t not have Calzone Day.

*****

Author Info:

Ashton Brooks is an author with a variety of stories that are in Contemporary Romance and New Adult romance. Her writing style is suspenseful and sometimes leads to heart-wrenching conclusions. With a background in forensic psychology she really goes for those investigative, dark and twisty feels. And of course, lots of love!
Brooks enjoys reading as much as writing. Television shows such as Criminal Minds, Scandal, and One Tree Hill are her go-to binge worthy series. She loves spending time with her friends and family with a good glass of beer or wine. If she isn’t reading or writing, Brooks is Pinteresting future home projects for her wonderful husband to accomplish.

*****

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR.

Spotlight – Mister Write

01 Wednesday Nov 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Tags

Candy Cane Key, Elyse Kelly, Man of the Month Club, Mister Write

A sexy, but growly author gets annoyed at his quirky landlord’s attempts to cure him of his writer’s block, but the more time he spends with her, the more her personality seeps into his story. Will his book have a happy ending? Or will his surly attitude run off his gorgeous new muse? Fans of Hope Ford, Kat Baxter, and Mia Brody will love Mister Write by Elyse Kelly, a steamy, small town, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, instalove romance.

Mister Write

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: November

by Elyse Kelly

Blurb:

He’s moody, she’s perky, and he might wind up punched in the face…

When a sexy but growly author finds himself chasing away his cheery, quirky, and maddeningly adorable landlord, he’s annoyed at her attempts to cure him of his writer’s block. But as Nate spends time with the charming beauty, more and more of Teddie’s alluring personality seeps into the pages of his manuscript.

Will his book have a happy ending? Or will his surly attitude run off his gorgeous new muse?

MISTER WRITE is a stand-alone, super sexy, grumpy/sunshine, beach romance with a HEA! So get yourself a fan because you’ll definitely need to cool down after reading this spicy, fast-paced, instalove book!

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

“And the hits keep coming,” I say as I answer the call.

Peter gives me a faux-offended look. “I’m just checking in on my dear little brother! For all we know, your Tracey—”

“Teddie,” I answer before I can stop myself. I immediately regret opening my mouth when Peter gives me a mischievous grin.

“Right,” he drawls. “Tawney—”

I suck on my teeth. “Pete. Petey. Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater…”

He snorts and raises an eyebrow. “I thought you were never going to call me that again.”

“Well, you’re intentionally goading me.”

His grin quirks up at the sides. “I’d call it more of a test. You failed, by the way.”

“What? How could I fail?” I blurt out before relaxing back into my seat. “I mean, I don’t know what you’re testing, but I’m good at taking tests. I’m quite intelligent.”

Peter shakes his head in amusement. “And yet you fall for my tricks every time. I can’t lie, though. I rather enjoy it.”

I’m getting annoyed that he’s beating around the bush. “What was the test?”

“Well, I thought I’d check and see how you’re getting on with… Teddie.” I narrow my eyes at him, and he rolls his before adding, “Yeah, I knew her name. And the fact that you corrected me means you know it too.”

I lift an eyebrow. “Of course, I know it. We’ve been together for five days, fourteen hours, and twenty-seven minutes. Give or take.”

“So, you’d say your routine has been shaken up? And how does that make you feel?”

“Don’t lose sight of your qualifications, Peter. You’re a pencil pusher, not a therapist.”

He shrugs. “My plan is working. I don’t care what you say. You obviously like her since you’ve felt bothered enough to remember her name. She might be just what you need.”

I grunt and lean back in my chair, far enough to crack my back. “What I need is peace and quiet. What I need is time alone. But what I get is Teddie.”

“What do you mean?” Peter cocks his head to the side like a dog trying to understand his owner’s gibberish.

“She’s everywhere, all the time! Whenever I leave my room, she’s in the kitchen baking cookies or cakes or whatever the fuck she’s making for the day.”

Peter gives a low whistle. “Sounds rough.”

I glare at him, trying to think of other things I find annoying about Teddie. “She’s always… humming or singing.”

“Yikes. Can’t carry a tune?”

I throw my hands up. “No! Always on-key with perfect pitch, which makes it even worse! She’s like an angelic little songbird.”

Peter gives me a sarcastic look through the screen. “Ah, yes, that must be fucking horrible.”

“And she’s practically sunshine in a sundress. I’m losing my goddamn mind.” I run my fingers through my hair as if to showcase the point. “I know this is all some sort of cover, like she has a nefarious plot to snuff me out before I can leave a bad review or something.”

Peter shakes his head at me. “Oh, my sweet, naïve little brother… You’re in a mess—that’s for sure. Let me tell you what’s actually going to happen.” He leans in closer, so I mimic his movements. “You’re going to fall in love with this woman and stay in Christmas Key forever.”

“It’s Candy Cane Key,” I reply robotically before realizing what he said and sputtering. “That’s never going to happen!”

*****

Author Info:

Hi, I’m Elyse!

I’m just a true southern girl, reading and writing books, asking you to love me! My books are extra steamy, contemporary romances, all with HEAs and no cliffhangers! They’re short, smutty, and tastefully trashy.

If you love over-protective, sexy, alpha book boyfriends who make you swoon and reach for your favorite… bookmark, then you’ve come to the right place.

When I’m not writing books or doing bookish things, I’m probably listening to music, designing smutty stickers, adding to my spectacular band t-shirt collection, or learning how to do something new like arm-knitting because I’m neurodivergent AF! And yes, I really do know how to knit with my arms.

*****

Spotlight – Gettin’ Figgy

15 Sunday Oct 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Tags

Candy Cane Key, Gail Haris, Gettin' Figgy, Man of the Month Club

Readers who enjoy romance with flirty bartenders and holiday towns will love Gettin’ 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 didn’t expect to find herself toe to toe with her handsome neighbor on a holiday called Sweetest Day… and all because of a fig.

Gettin’ 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, ‘Gettin’ Figgy,’ they just might discover each other’s 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. Can’t wait to see you there!

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

Thanasis doesn’t look amused. “You know kids live on this street. Stringing the lights to look like Santa is peeing off the side of the house isn’t appropriate. And having my elves holding a body bag with the rest of my Christmas decorations in it is borderline disturbing.”

I can’t help it. I snort with laughter. Thanasis’ eyes soften and I notice a slight twitch at the corner of his mouth. “I wanted us to become friends. To make peace.”

Doubtful. But I’ll play along. “Fine. Let’s be friends.”

“Too late. You don’t mess with a man’s yard.” I scoff, Thanasis continues. “I want you to remember you started this.”

Started what? “Nothing has started. It’s finished. Consider that as me getting even for last night.”

“What happened last night?”

“You were being obscene.” 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 it’s enough to have me squeezing my thighs together.

“And you’re being childish by vandalizing my property.”

“Is it vandalizing if it’s an improvement? When you think about it, I did you a favor. Consider it my gift to you for Sweetest Day.”

“You definitely spiced up the neighborhood. I’ll see you for our playdate.”

I loathe the fact that he looks so sexy when he winks. I wonder if I can teach the dogs to pee on him.

*****

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 coffee…especially the coffee. Don’t give up on coffee and books.

*****

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR.

Spotlight – In Tune

06 Friday Oct 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour

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Tags

Candy Cane Key, In Tune, Jade Royal, Man of the Month Club

A grumpy single father is making his first album in three years and he doesn’t need any distractions. Especially not from the nanny he hired to care for his daughter while he works. Readers who enjoy romance short, steamy reads will love In Tune by Jade Royal, a small town, grumpy/sunshine, billionaire romance.

In Tune

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: October

by Jade Royal

Blurb:

Single father musician hires a nanny to help him care for his daughter while he makes his first album in three years. He doesn’t need any distractions. Not even from the patient woman willing to put up with his grumpy behavior.

This is a grumpy sunshine story.

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

About the series:

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. Can’t wait to see you there!

*****

Author Info:

When the voices begin to speak, Jade Royal sits down in her lab to tell the tale. Each story unfolds when she listens to her instincts, bringing the words to life. Jade has always expressed her creative nature artistically, especially by writing. She refers to herself as “Slave to the Pen” because it’s difficult for her to resist the call to write.

Jade resides in Cincinnati, Ohio where she was born and raised. Always traveling, she looks for the next adventure in everything she does. Coffee is always part of her plan with shenanigans thrown in the mix and music of all genres blasting from her playlists. Jade Royal has never met a stranger and once you’re part of her pack, she holds on tight keeping those in her fold protected.

Jade Royal is the author of the “Limits of Love Series”. The series focuses on love, romance, and the eroticism of the two combined. She writes interracial romance in lots of sub-genres including; BDSM Romance, Paranormal Romance, Suspenseful Romance, and more. She also dabbles in non-romance genres of Thriller and Suspense.

As an author, Jade pulls her readers in to experience raw stories that readers can relate to on various levels. The emotional roller coaster bestowed will hopefully make her readers stalk her words and indulge in her realm of fun.

Queen of her world, Jade Royal pushes the envelope of ideal, bringing you something a little different than you’re used to. To explore her domain, follow her on her website and social media avenues.

*****

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR.

Spotlight – Uptown Girl

15 Friday Sep 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Tags

Candy Cane Key, Emma Bray, Man of the Month Club, Uptown Girl

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.

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

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 – 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 – a crooked, teasing grin that makes my heart skip a beat – 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.

*****

Author Info:

USA Today bestselling author Emma Bray writes intense, steamy romances with possessive alpha males who’ll stop at nothing to claim the women they want. Emma’s instalove stories are filled with heat, passion and happily ever afters. Get a free book when you sign up here: http://www.authoremmabray.com

*****

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Spotlight – Beards & Babies

01 Friday Sep 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Beards & Babies, Candy Cane Key, Heather Lauren, Man of the Month Club

I haven’t seen Soren Mathews in ten years, but he draws me right back under his spell. We spend one stormy night together living out our teenage fantasies and in the morning, he’s gone again, leaving me to think about him and the secret I’m keeping. Readers who enjoy romance with childhood crushes and one night stands will love Beards & Babies by Heather Lauren, a steamy, small town, brother’s best friend, beach romance.

Beards & Babies

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: September

by Heather Lauren

Blurb:

The bare naked buns of my brother’s best friend greet me in Florida.

I haven’t seen Soren Mathews since the most embarrassing night of my life. Now ten years older, he’s all grizzly man. With a sexy beard and new scars, he draws me right back under his spell.

For one night the storm keeps us under the same roof and we finally live out all our teenage fantasies and secret desires. But the sea calls him the next morning and he’s gone.

I try to move forward with a new life in Candy Cane Key, but I can’t stop thinking about him. I can’t seem to eat and all I want to do is sleep. I’m restless and lost until he comes back and by then we’ve both got secrets we’ve been keeping.

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*****

Excerpt:

The place is quiet and never fails to bring a strong since of comfort every time I walk through the doors. I kick out of my shoes and wet sweater and make my way for the master shower. The house is huge and technically has four master bedrooms and three smaller bedrooms. My family bought it back in the nineties with their best friends and our two families have been vacationing here ever since.

Bonnie and Carl Mathews and of course, Soren.

A man who haunts my wet dreams to this very fucking day but couldn’t be more off limits. After a terribly embarrassing incident when I was eighteen, I’ve avoided my childhood crush completely.

Until right this second.

I think a squeak comes out of my mouth or maybe its a moan. Either way my feet are firmly fused to the floor as I stare shocked and honestly in awe of the gorgeous man in front of me.

“Robin!” He shouts in obvious surprise.

Suddenly I regret avoiding this moment for so long. Seeing him. Not just his amazing body. Holy hell the man was chiseled. No, seeing him instantly feels like a balm to my ever spiraling anxiety. After a fast sweep down where my eyeballs absolutely do not belong, I lock eyes with his deep brown ones.

“Hey.” I say like an idiot. It’s just so good to see him.

I nervous laugh but turn around quickly, closing the door behind me.

Oh holy hell Bateman.

That man is cut. Muscles on every inch of him. Decorated in black ink and he has the sexy v thing I thought only existed in magazines.

And that cock! Is it normal to swoon over a man’s cock. No, but I’m the weird girl I don’t really do normal. I melt against the back of the bathroom door sighing with a heavy breath at the thought of that monster. Its thick and long and it looks so soft and inviting. His body has changed so much since I last saw him, and I imagine what the black details look like on his hips. Does the tribal ink span his thighs? His ass?

As I’m daydreaming against the door, soaked to the bone and starting to feel the chill, I’m startled by the water turning off. It hasn’t been more than a minute…right?

I push off the door and hurry down the hall to my room. The lights are all on and I’m surprised to find a bag already on the bed. Walking in I see the Star Wars pins I got him the Christmas before we stopped talking. The sight makes me smile and I wonder again why his bags in here. This is my room. It’s always my room.

“Hey sorry, I wasn’t expecting you.”

“You don’t need to be. I’m sorry for barging in, I couldn’t hear the shower over the pelting rain.” I say pointing up at the ceiling trying my best to look at his face as he stands in the doorway, a crisp white towel hanging lose on his hips. Tattoo covered hips.

“I’ll just grab my bag.”

“Ok.” I say, but the question burns and after fifteen years why hold back anything.

“Did you want to sleep in here?”

*****

Author Info:

Heather is a Polly Pocket-size mom of three with a burly hubby and hairy husky. They live in sunny Arizona where she writes steamy contemporary romance and romantic comedies. Her books feature beefy cinnamon roll heroes (often bearded), dirty talking alphas, and adorkable, strong heroines full of sass. Each one guarantees, good laughs and epic Happily Ever Afters.

Spotlight – Son of a Peach

15 Tuesday Aug 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Candy Cane Key, Claire Hastings, Man of the Month Club, Son of a Peach

Peaches, Beaches, and a whole lot of misunderstanding…this hero has his work cut out for him! The local chocolatier is his exact opposite and someone he should stay away from, but he can’t. There’s no harm in a little fling, right? Readers who enjoy instalove and fun in the sun romance will love Son of a Peach by Claire Hastings, a steamy, small town, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine romance.

Son of a Peach

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: August

by Claire Hastings

Blurb:

Peaches are my life.

I’m talking about the sweet, fuzzy fruit that represents my home state of Georgia—not the emoji that most people use for a different peach. If you know what I mean…

When there’s the chance to show off my peaches at a Christmas-themed island for the Peach on the Beach festival, it’s a no-brainer.

Then I arrive in Candy Cane Key.

Turns out, they aren’t celebrating my favorite fruit. Nope. This event is about that other type of peach.

To make matters worse, I can’t stop thinking about the event organizer, the local chocolatier—Tizzy. And that’s exactly what she’s worked my insides into.

The strawberry blonde wild child is my exact opposite in every way. Someone I know I should stay away from. Yet, I can’t.

There’s no harm in a little fling, right?

Son of a Peach is an opposites attract, insta-love, fun in the sun novella about an uptight horticulturist and a happy-go-lucky chocolatier with a guaranteed HEA.

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

“See, not so hard.”

Maybe this isn’t, but my dick…

“It’s not dirt,” I say, repeating the motions, “but I can see how this would be fun.”

“Dirt is not more fun than chocolate.”

I stop dead, chocolate fork held in midair, Oreo precariously perched on it. She cannot be serious. Then again, of course this free spirit of a woman would think that.

“Dirt is basis for all life. From dirt you came and to dirt you shall return,” I paraphrase. I can practically hear the preacher back home from Hickory Hills Baptist rolling his eyes for getting that piece of scripture wrong. The meaning is still there though.

“Maybe, but…chocolate gives life meaning,” she counters.

“Does it though?”

Dipping her finger into the bowl, she scoops out some of the melted goodness before running her finger along her lips, then sucks all the chocolate off. My dick surges and I swallow hard, wishing that were me she was licking.

Fuck, I need to get it together…

“It does. Besides, doing this with dirt is less fun.”

I don’t have time to ask, “doing what.” Tizzy’s too quick with the spatula, flicking it at me, sending chocolate flying. It’s warm as it hits my skin, catching me off guard. I scoff, unable to believe she just did that. Well, two can play this game.

Grabbing the fork, I mimic her movements, splattering chocolate across her face. Tizzy gasps, her smile wide. She clearly was not expecting me to retaliate. I laugh, enjoying her reaction and the playful fight that ensues. Back and forth we go, each one flinging bits of chocolate at each other. I can’t remember the last time I did anything like this. Certainly not with food. Mud, maybe. Mud fights were plentiful as children. Anton and I never passed up a chance to enjoy a good puddle. But it’s been years since we did that. Since I really let loose and played. And then I met Tizzy.

It’s time to up the ante though, the little splatter from the kitchen instruments no longer having the same effect. So I do what any man would do. I go big.

I dip my whole hand into the chocolate bowl, scooping up as much as I can. I hear Tizzy’s breath hitch, like she knows what’s coming. She doesn’t move though, the impish look on her face turning even more devilish the closer I get to her. I’ve wanted to lick this chocolate off her since the moment she spread it on her lips. Time to create my chance.

Only, physics has a different idea.

Stepping forward to close the distance between us, I slip. My legs wobble underneath me and I lunge forward, trying to keep my balance, and fall into Tizzy. The momentum sends us backward into the counter, which thankfully stops us from hitting the ground.

A second later, both of us trying to catch our breath, I pull back slightly, noticing the placement of my chocolate-covered hand.

Smack-dab on Tizzy’s boob.

*****

Author Info:

Claire Hastings is a walking, talking awkward moment. She loves Diet Coke, gummi bears, the beach, and books (obvs). When not reading she can usually be found hanging with friends at a soccer match or grabbing food (although she probably still has a book in her purse). She and her husband live in Atlanta.

*****

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Spotlight – Book Me, Baby

02 Wednesday Aug 2023

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Book Me Baby, Candy Cane Key, Man of the Month Club, Tamrin Banks

What happens when the uptight town sheriff arrests the town librarian? Nothing but fireworks! Until a new man shows up in town and the sheriff wants to stake his claim. Readers who enjoy instalove and humor will love Book Me, Baby by Tamrin Banks, a steamy, small town, enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, age gap romance.

Book Me, Baby

Candy Cane Key

Man of the Month: August

by Tamrin Banks

Blurb:

Hartley Hanover

Oooh! I hate that man! Booker Sloan is the most uptight, arrogant, annoying man I’ve ever met! He even has the nerve to arrest me for not filing a permit. A permit! And when it turns out that I did file it, it just got lost in the shuffle….does he apologize? Heck no! He proceeds to tell me all the things I do wrong every single day of my life! I’m surprised he doesn’t yell at me for breathing!

But when I’m alone at night…why do I keep thinking about him? Why does the occasional sadness on his face make me want to fix whatever’s wrong in his universe? Why can’t he stay out of my dreams and keep those dang handcuffs to himself?

Booker Sloan

I know I messed up and I should apologize. I shouldn’t have acted the way I did. But something about that dang, sweet woman just has me so screwed up that every time I open my mouth the worst things come out!

It’s not her. It’s me. And I know it. But I feel like if I give her one little inch, the gorgeous woman will take every piece of me I have left. I’m barely hanging on and if I have to push her away to protect myself? Well, that’s just how it’s got to be.

So why does it bother me so much when a new man in town shows a little interest in the petite, sunny woman who’s got me tied up in knots? She’s not encouraging him. In fact it seems like she’s running away from him.

So how come I still want to punch his grinning mouth and grind him into dust under my boot heels and then haul her over my shoulder and make sure she understands that she’s mine?

Add to Goodreads Here!

Buy Now or Read FREE with KindleUnlimited!

*****

Excerpt:

Laughing, I reach over and hug little Edward Reese. He hugs me back hard. He is just the sweetest boy.

“Now, I know that you’ve been waiting for this book!” I pull it from behind my back. “Surprise! It came in early and I made sure to set it aside for you!”

“You are the best, Miss Hanover!” His huge, gap-toothed smile makes my heart light.

He hasn’t had an easy time of it lately. His dad got hurt while driving home from work last month and broke his leg so the whole family has had to pitch in to help. Even nine year old boys. So he hasn’t been able to spend as much time in the library as he usually does and he loves to read.

“You just get it back to me when you’re done. Doesn’t matter how long. I’ll take care of it.”

His little round cheeks flush and his freckles disappear in a wash of red. “Thank you so much, Miss Hanover. I can’t wait to read it!” He dances off and his mom smiles at me, watching his light steps before she turns back to me.

“We really appreciate you doing this, Miss Hanover. We’re all working really hard. And Sam is worried about him.” She nods her head at Edward.

I can’t even speak, my throat tight with my own tears. But I clear my throat and say, “I’m glad. I hope that this helps him relax a little bit.”

“It will. Thank you.” She moves off and I turn back, groaning when I’m faced with the last person I want to see.

“Sheriff? How nice to see you.”

His arctic blue eyes glare at the setup on the sidewalk. “I talked to you about this last month with the Christmas in July to-do. You cannot block the sidewalk like this. And did you get a permit this time?”

I nod my head and sigh. “Yes, I did. Last month when you had your hissy fit.”

He stands up straight and pushes his broad shoulders back and I feel that little pull in my belly that I absolutely hate! Why the fuck do I have to react like this around this man?

I mean, sure he’s hot. His light brown hair is thick and gleams in the sunlight. But it’s so tamed that it almost doesn’t look real. His body is tall and tanned, muscles upon muscles to drool over. I jerk my brain back in line.

No, not drool over. Dread. You dread seeing this man. He smiles at me and I growl under my breath.

“Can I see it?”

“I don’t have it on me.” He nods his tawny head at me. “I’ll be back then.”

He steps away and I see him on his little radio talking to someone and I roll my eyes and turn to Mrs. Cassidy, discussing the latest thriller that she just read that I recommended to her.

“I loved it, Miss Hanover! So good! Do you have any more like that?”

I’m nodding at her when I feel a big hand grab my wrist and pull it backwards. My mouth falls open when I see that the Sheriff has a hold of my wrist.

“What the heck are you doing? Get off of me!” I try and pull away and he grits hit teeth, his firm jaw tensing.

“Stop resisting.”

“What are you doing, Sheriff?” Mrs. Cassidy’s mouth is hanging open and she’s glaring at him like he’s mugging me.

“I’m arresting her for disturbing the peace, not having a license for a demonstration and now resisting arrest.”

“You must be joking,” I huff, staring at him.

“Nope.” He grabs my other hand and pulls it behind my back, clicking the handcuffs on my wrists. The cold steel against my skin makes me shiver and freeze in my tracks.

His blue eyes look me up and down and I swear there’s some kind of emotion there that I don’t understand. I don’t think I want to understand it.

I just want him to get away from me and leave me alone. And take his handcuffs and shove them where the damn sun doesn’t shine!

*****

Author Info:

I’m a mother of three who works for a school district as a cafeteria aide but I’ve also had a lot of different hats over the years. Divorced single mom fresh out of the military working nights in a plastics factory all the way to teaching cardio kickboxing and zumba at the YMCA.

I’ve been married to my honey bunny for 22 years now. He’s absolutely the best and tries to keep me in check as much as possible because I am a crazy person that stacks too much on her plate and then does it all no matter what. Even if it drives everyone nuts!

I love the kind of romances where you know what you’re getting. I don’t like happily for now. That just feels like cheating to me. I also don’t like love triangles. I’m an easy girl and I like my books like I like my men…lol! Uncomplicated. So if you’re reading my books, you know that no matter what, there’s a happily ever after!

*****

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