Title: Fangsters
Author: Jo-Ann Carson
Genre: Fantasy Romance/Witches, Warlocks, & Vampires
Release Date: April 4, 2023
Cover Credit: Rebecca at Dream2Media

Gangsters with bite.
I should have known better than to sign a deal with a blood-sucking blackmailer. But what choice did I have? He knows my deepest, darkest secret. Our unholy covenant, written in blood, states I must establish an academy for delinquent vampires within thirty days, or he’ll expose me.
I’ve never taught vampires, or delinquents, or teenagers for that matter, but I will risk everything I have, and do anything I can to set up this dream-team school for the undead. On the plus side, I have a PhD in Education and am a talented witch capable of all sorts of sorcery. Getting my brooms in a row, I’ve already started writing lessons on the seven undeadly sins. What could go wrong?
Onyx, a drop-dead-gorgeous night stalker with an extensive knowledge of blood sorcery, has offered his assistance, but you know what they say about deals that appear too good to be true. Should I accept a sidekick with fangs or go it alone?
Meanwhile, trouble is brewing in the small Pacific Northwest town of Mystic Keep where I live. Someone is killing witches. While I expect many bumps in the night await me, I swear no bloody mess will deter me from my goal—to get the academy for naughty vampires functioning on time. Will I succeed, or will I be exposed? Or worse, will I be murdered?
My name is Rebel Black, and this is my story.
Fangsters, the novel, is the first book in Fangsters, an urban fantasy with bite series, set in the Mystic Keep world. A fast-paced thriller, and slow burn romance, it features powerful witches, stubborn warlocks, and sexy vampires, and can easily be read as a standalone.

That night, I awoke to the sound of a man’s voice echoing through my sister’s guest room. “I have an offer you can’t refuse.” 

“In the middle of the night?” I rubbed my eyes and scowled at the figure looming over my bed. 

“That’s … the least of your problems.” Moonlight flowed through the open window, backlighting his tall body—six feet of deliciously lean, hard muscle.

As I sat up, the cool air in the room made me shiver. My heart felt as if a massive hand squeezed the living daylights out of it. The coppery smell of human blood hung in the air. All my witch senses spelled one thing—vampire! 

Wasn’t my life complicated enough? I reached for my glasses sitting on the side table to get a better look at the intruder. “Alessandro?”

“Hmm.”

I scoffed. “It’s late. Whatever you have to say, put it in a message. I’ll read it in the morning.”

“It’s too important.” 

I fought an eyeroll. Why did vamps always take themselves so seriously? Everything was life or death to them. “Okay. Hit me. What is it?”

“They tell me you’re an exceptional teacher.” 

What? “I would never call myself exceptional at anything. But I do have a PhD in Education Theory, and yeah, I know stuff.” 

“And you’re between jobs,” he said.

“Not exactly. I’m here—”

“Taking a break from your life. Yes, I get that. I heard you had some man trouble and came to your sisters for solace, but that doesn’t concern me. Any guy stupid enough to hurt you is an idiot.” 

He really could be a nice bloodsucker.

Alessandro paused a moment before he said, “My point is that if you want to stay here, near your sisters, you need a job.” His dark eyes drilled into me as if they were laser beams searching for my soul.

“I suppose.” 

“This is how we can help each other.” He pointed to me and then to himself, as if I was a moron.

“You want to give me a job?” I blinked.

“Yes.”

“I can’t work for you.” 

The night stalker smirked.

“Seriously. Why would I want to work for you?”

His brows met in the middle. “Why not?”

“Let me count the ways. Becoming a vampire’s day-person does not appeal to me, no matter how much you pay. And besides that, you cause a lot of trouble in my family.”

“I do not,” he said.

“You do so. I think it’s a miracle Sanjay hasn’t challenged you to a duel.” 

He shrugged. “I’m an honest vampire. I can’t help it if I’m in love with his wife. But you have to know that on several occasions I have saved the lives of your loved ones.”

I nodded. “True. And I appreciate that. You’ve always been my favorite predator. But Alessandro …”

“Hear me out.” He grumbled, and I squirmed as the grave sound of his voice echoed inside my rib cage. 

The vampire ran a hand through his mane of thick brown hair, and gazed towards the window, no doubt catching night sounds I could not hear. A dangerous blood-sucker in my bedroom! One never knew what to expect in the small town of Mystic Keep, which had become a haven for supernaturals thanks to my family. But, I didn’t expect him to come calling. 

Alessandro, the night stalker was the picture of masculine perfection with fangs and a smoldering sensuality. He was a drop-dead handsome guy unlike any other, and in a weird way, he was also my brother. 

He turned back to face me. “You are my last hope.”

Oh, hex! I rubbed the spot between my eyes. “I know you wouldn’t come to me if it wasn’t important.” 

“Trust me. It is.”

“Okay. Tell me exactly what’s bothering you, and I promise to help you if I can.”

“Good. It’s settled then.” A slight smile lightened his hard features.

“Uh. What’s settled?”

“You’ll open a school.”

I choked. “What?”

“For troubled teens.”

“Are you out of your mind? I don’t teach teenagers.”

“Vampires. Only vampires.” He said as if that made things better.

I squeezed my eyes shut, hoping when I opened them again, he might not be there—and all this would just be a bad dream.

“You are a gifted enchantress, Rebel Black. Who better to run an academy for my young?”

“Your young?” I felt my eyes cross. 

“Yes. You see, I have a problem … actually, I’ve had it for a couple hundred years now. I can’t watch a young person die, not when I can help them live.”

I pursed my lips. “Go on.”

“So, over the years … I’ve saved a few.”

“How many is a few?” I asked.

The predator skipped a beat. “I sired them and did my best to nurture their introduction into the world of the undead.”

“That’s kind of you.” After you drank all their blood.

“Becoming a vampire is not easy.” He placed a cold hand on my thigh, chilling me to the bone. “I need your help.”

“Running an academy for the fanged?” He had to be kidding. It had to be a prank. “Did my sisters put you up to this?”

He leaned closer, and the scent of exotic blood rituals hit my system. “I am deadly serious.” He made another low, gravelly predator sound. Goosebumps rose all along my arms. “The thing is, I know how to be a vampire. I do it well. Better than all the rest.” 

“Uh-huh.”

“But I don’t know how to teach a course on civility. And some of my children are … let us say, difficult.”

“Listen, Alessandro. I’m a witch, not a miracle worker.”

He continued as if I hadn’t said a word. “Most young people I sire mature nicely and find their own way.”

“But some don’t. Yeah, I get that,” I said. 

“I knew you would understand.”

“They act out,” I added.

“In many, many ways,” he said. “Unbelievably frightening ways.”

“Sounds to me like you need a jail warden, not a teacher.”

“Is there a difference?” he asked, and he looked so earnest I wanted to laugh. 

“Uh, yeah.”

“I purchased the Zamboni estate just east of town.” 

“The old bordello?” I had heard of it.

He nodded. “It’s a nice piece of land with serviceable buildings. My crew will create dormitories and classrooms. My children will have only the best. I’m thinking Italian tile and marble.”

“It sounds like you’ve thought this through.”

“I have. I’ve been thinking about this for over a century, but the right teacher never appeared.” He squeezed my thigh with his enormous hand, and I felt like a turkey wishbone. “Until now.”

“I don’t know, Alessandro.”

“You will use your magic to confine them and your knowledge of pedagogy to educate them. I know in my ancient bones that you are the one.”

“You want me … to imprison naughty vampires?” 

He continued talking—again as if I hadn’t said a word. “I’ll send the first three immediately.”

“You’re thinking a change in their environment might help them behave.”

“Yessss. It will. And proper instruction from you will be a bonus. Like a cherry on a sundae.” 

I removed his hand from my leg. “Alessandro, I’m not a cherry, and I don’t know the first thing about how to be a vampire. I cannot help them.”

“I beg to differ.”

He would. I folded my arms across my chest, trying to look more … more something.

“I’ve thought about this,” he said. “They need a smattering of the humanities and enough knowledge of science to understand what’s going on in the world. Music education is also a must. They should learn that there is more to life than blood.”

“Did I hear you say …”

“I want my young to be rounded people of the world.”

“With sharp teeth.”

He grinned. “I always thought you were the fun sister.”

I groaned. “Sorry, I can’t help you. As much as the thought of turning children towards an enlightened life intrigues me, I’m not interested in your project.”

“Is it because they’re different?” A lock of his chocolatey-rich brown hair fell over his eyes. The Italian stallion could not look more endearing. 

I brushed his hair away from his face. “I believe every child deserves an education.” I held up my index finger before he could say more. “But not from me.”

Alessandro huffed. “When I asked you for this one, little favor, I had hoped we could come to an agreement based on logic and good will.”

“I don’t.” I swallowed. “Agree.”

The night stalker grumbled. “Then, my dear, that brings us to the part of the offer you can’t refuse.”

“Oh, I can refuse, Alessandro. I assure you of that. I will not be bullied. I am Rebel Black.” 

The sucker’s grin widened from ear to ear. “You cannot refuse me, young enchantress.”

I summoned my magic from within. Flaming balls of fire appeared in my hands. I didn’t want to hurt him, but I had to be prepared to protect myself. He was a vampire, after all.

“I wouldn’t do that if I was you.” He waved a finger in my face.

“Why not?”

“Because I know your secret.”

~A little bit of magic~
Jo-Ann Carson is an award-winning author who loves the magic of storytelling. She writes evocative settings, strong characters, and fast-paced plots. Her current project is Fangsters, a six book, urban fantasy series featuring a witch blackmailed into running an academy for delinquent, teenage vampires.
To date, Jo-Ann Carson has published 31 stories. Her latest series are: Fangsters, the Dial Witch Trilogy, The Perfect Brew Trilogy, the Ghost & Abby Mysteries, and the Gambling Ghosts Novellas.A firm believer in the magic of our everyday lives, Jo-Ann loves watching sunrises, walking the beaches with her poodle near her home in the Pacific Northwest, and reading books by a crackling wood fire. You can find more about her on her website.
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Title: Untied
Series: St. Jude Book 3
Author: M Jameson
Genre: Dark Enemies-to-Lovers Romance
Release Date: March 21, 2023
Cover Design: M Jameson
In the dark and dangerous world of St. Jude’s elite, Jenson Cooper is the epitome of power and wealth, a fantasy for men and women alike.
But behind his good looks and suave exterior lies deviant secrets that have kept him emotionally detached and elusive.
When he is forced to marry the daughter of his enemy, Jenson sees it as just another business transaction.
But when he meets the beautiful and headstrong Amara Patel, his carefully constructed world is thrown into chaos.
Amara is everything he never expected. She’s passionate, caring, and unafraid to challenge him.
As their undeniable and often volatile chemistry threatens to consume them, Jenson’s dark past is never far away.
But keeping Amara at a distance is near impossible.
The more he tries to push her away, the more he falls under her spell.
With the stakes climbing and his heart on the line,
Jenson must decide whether to risk it all for love knowing his secrets could destroy everything.
In a tale of forbidden love, power, and secrets, “Untied” will feed your darkest desires.
** TW to be taken seriously. This is a dark romance with mature and disturbing themes that may not be to everyone’s liking. This is fiction. Pass if you have any issues with reading:
MMF
FF
MM
Menage
S and C Abuse (not by a MC to a MC)
Physical Violence .
Miscarriage (not MC or graphic)
 


M Jameson enjoys writing steamy, taboo, and forbidden stories. Sometimes dark, sometimes angsty, but sexiness and HEA (albeit not conventional) guaranteed. Jameson loves to delve into the hard topics and pushing the limits, so if you’re looking for escapism and like your boundaries crushed, she’s your go-to.
 
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 ★✩★ COVER REVEAL ★✩★

THE BRAZILIAN

Men of the World Book 9

By J.O MANTEL

Genre: MM Romance

Cover Designer: Dana @Designs by Dana

Release Date: July 18

Hosted by DS Book Promotions

 

 



 

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Blurb:

Twelve countries. Twelve men. Twelve million dollars!

 

When Deacon Brady signed up for this whole bachelor gig, he knew he’d be sailing around the world, but he had no idea just how close the sharks would be circling.

 

Just when he’s in the homestretch of his journey on the hit reality show, Deacon meets bachelor number nine, Jośe. And things are not at all what they seem with the sexy Brazilian. From Copacabana beaches to Carnival feathers, things are hotter south of the equator.

 

In serious hot water, Deacon finds himself in way too deep, when Jośe’s secret is exposed. He has twelve million reasons to get out of trouble.

 

With time and luck not on his side, Deacon desperately looks for a way out. Hoping to avoid the media and negative publicity, Dante takes matters into his own hands.

 

But at what cost?

 

Can Deacon and Dante find a way out of trouble, or is this where it all ends for the dynamic duo?

 

Rio De Janeiro — Brazil.

 

 



 

About J.O Mantel

J.O Mantel was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia. As a child, J.O loved reading and his favourite authors included, Roald Dahl, Robin Klein, and Morris Gleitzman. Always an avid reader as a child, J.O had a vivid imagination, like most children. It wasn’t until 2016, that he realised his love for creative writing, and released his first novel, First Crush in the Dark Falkon Series that same year. In January 2020, he began his first MM book, The Australian, part of the Men Of The World Series. When J.O isn’t hidden behind his laptop or iPad, he works in a busy retail environment of Customer Service and management. J.O lives a quiet life on a rural property in Melbourne’s Northern Suburbs.

 



 

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Second Chance Forever

Book 1 Second Chance Series

By Rebecca Barber

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Blurb:

After losing the love of his life, Hayden Lawrence became a self-proclaimed bachelor, married to his job as one of Chicago’s finest.

 

Unable to move on, his focus turns to righting the wrongs no matter the costs. The last thing he’s looking for is love, but when fate steps in, everything changes.

 

He’s convinced Skye holds the key to unlocking the mystery haunting him, but more importantly, could she save Hayden from himself?

 

Second Chance Forever is complete standalone from best-selling author Rebecca Barber.

 

If you like angsty rollercoasters, heartbreakingly beautiful moments and tales of redemption then you’ll love Rebecca Barber’s enchanting Second Chance Series..


About Rebecca Barber:

Rebecca is a clumsy, introverted, bubble bath loving, chocoholic who’d rather read a book than go shopping. And don’t even mention shoe shopping!

Rebecca is a lucky girl – one of four kids to schoolteacher parents. Wife to a football obsessed husband. Aunt to the most crazy/adorable little girls. And sister to two very determined sisters and one easy going brother.

Rebecca lives in Canberra Australia and spends way too many hours a day working the day job.

She is a book whore who can easily (and happily) read a book from start to finish in one sitting and spends her spare time writing.


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Title: To be a Fae Legend
Author: Tricia Copeland
Genre: YA fantasy
Publication Date: April 25, 2023
Cover Design: Shower of Schmidt Designs
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:
Titania may be the only one capable of ending the evil stalking the fae, but staying alive long enough to do it may prove her biggest challenge yet.

Hidden deep in fae lore lies a legend. It holds that there will be One granted the power to end all evil. Titania has come to realize she may be the prophesied One.

An omen of three evils and being wooed by a pack of hungry suitors are only a few of Queen Titania’s stresses. Everything is piling up, and she’s determined to rise to each challenge.

She must harness the gifts bestowed upon her, but time is ticking away, and the best she can manage are a few sparks. Now, there’s a race against time as she’s tasked with choosing a husband while trying to save the world from certain doom.

To Be a Fae Legend, the third book of the Realm Chronicles series, is a treacherous journey into Lower Earth. Enter if you dare risk confrontation with nightmare-ish beasts and dark spirits of the deep.

If you like valiant heroines, you’ll love Tricia Copeland’s electrifying fantasy.

Look for To Be a Fae Legend to spiral into a magical world today!

Tricia Copeland believes in finding magic. She thinks magic infuses every aspect of our lives, whether it is the magic of falling in love, discovering a new passion, a beautiful sunset, or a book that transports us to another world. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles from contemporary romance and fantasy, to dystopian fiction at www.triciacopeland.com.

Title: Of Blood and Destiny (Broken Bonds, #3)
Author: Raven More
Genre: PNR, Fantasy Romance
Cover Designer: Wynter Designs
Publication Date: Mar. 21st, 2023
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:

Life on a war-ravaged Earth is a dying experience. Finally, after years of tyranny, the rebellion rises. Once I rescue my fiancé Ryker Valant, I, and the rebel general, will fight to free our people. In a war where alliances shift and friends betray one another, will the final battle prove the truth of the prophecy the queen has so feared—her death—or will I lose everyone I love?

USA Today bestselling author of sci-fi & romance under other secret identities can deny the call to other worlds no longer. Come escape with me.

 

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Title: THE HAUNTED LOST ROSE

Author: C.L. Bauer

Blurb

Some secrets should stay hidden. If they come to light, darkness could weaken even the strongest of families.

Real estate agent Charlotte O’Donohue never looks forward to Mondays. Usually, a couple cups of coffee will fix her mood, but today an unexpected voice directs her to a dead body. She’s going to need a bigger cup, and it better be caffeinated!

When the dead body happens to be your client, the scandal could jeopardize her brother’s business, but Charlotte is more worried about a mysterious stranger who decides she’s the number one suspect. He seems familiar and dangerous. He knows she has a secret, and Charlotte will do anything to keep the truth from him. How could he possibly understand that she can hear the dead?

Ghostly whispers from a spirit who haunts the large Kansas City mansion warns of more danger to come for Charlotte, her family, and for the stranger. But as Charlotte discovers a key to one mystery, another one appears…one that could reveal more than a murderer but a long-forbidden love.

The haunted and the living seem to be conspiring against the spunky real estate agent, throwing her into a love of her own that shakes her to the core.

When long hidden secrets expose lost loves, two intertwined families are placed in jeopardy in Charlotte’s Voices of Mystery.

Publication Date: March 17, 2023
ASIN: B0BSVM9H5T
ISBN:
Language: English
Length: 252 pages
Genre: Paranormal Cozy Mystery/Romance
Buy Link:  https://mybook.to/HauntedLostRose
Other Stores: https://books2read.com/u/3Joj5E/


Want to delve into more of Ms. Bauer’s work? Check out her completed Lily List Mystery Series, or sign-up for her newsletter here.
Want to keep up to date on what C.L. Bauer is doing? Follow her on AmazonBookbub, and Goodreads.

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About the Author:

Kansas City, Missouri native C.L. Bauer is the author of three series in mystery genres. Originally a reporter, Bauer worked through jobs in marketing and advertising, to eventually take over the reins of her family’s century old business, Clara’s Flowers. Many of the stories used in her books are based on true events from years in the wedding and event flower world.

You can reach C.L. Bauer on all social mediums, Goodreads, and through her website, www.clbauer.com. You can check out her flower designs at http://www.clarasflowers.com Info Quick Find: Blogger Run Giveaway: For those that selected giveaway on the form, you’re authorized to giveaway one e-copy of The Haunted Lost Rose by Clara Bauer to one of your blog readers. This is a giveaway outside of the Rafflecopter, just for your readers.

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EXCERPT

​Sean gave me a brief hug, and Paddy waved to me as he watched me exit the house. I noticed that the rose was still on the mantle. I quickly pulled out my phone and shot a photo. No one would even notice if I took the flower, but my brothers would kill me if I moved evidence. As it was, I was already leaving with an item that might be related to the murder. Maybe it was an additional house key? Or maybe someone had dropped it years ago in that old window seat, and it didn’t mean anything to anyone? But the voice didn’t want me to tell. My thoughts raced as I battled with the secret. I shut my eyes and made my final decision. I was leaving the house with it. I pulled my coat closer to me as I walked down the sidewalk. I slowed my steps after my first slip. The snow was slick to walk on. I carefully passed more and more police, news reporters, camera crews, and others before I arrived at my car.
As I began to slide uncontrollably toward my door, a black gloved hand held me up.
“Whoops,” I yelled. “Thank you so much.” The gentleman was holding me up in his arms, and I felt as though I was at his mercy for some reason.
“You’re welcome.” His voice was low. I heard some sort of an accent, but I just wasn’t sure what it was. I looked up slowly to gaze into the prettiest brown eyes. They were the color of my favorite candy bar. They were large, offering a girl enough room to get lost in them on a rainy day. Heck, on any kind of day. His dark hair was wavy, windblown, and had hints of a white hair here and there. Mmm, I never was that fond of salt and pepper hair, but just these little touches looked good, well looked great on him.
He was still holding me up, when I stiffened and reached out my hand to my car door.
“Here, let me get you to the door.” He slowly pushed me closer and made sure I had safely made it inside the vehicle. “Have a good day, Ms–”
“O’Donohue, Charlotte.”
He smiled. His smile could very well melt every snowflake on my coat. In fact, I was warm all over. “Ah, O’Donohue, as in every O’Donohue in this blessed city?”
I nodded. I just didn’t have the ability to speak right now as he smiled again.
“And I suppose you all know everything about everyone just like a large Irish family should?”
I cleared my throat. Come on, get a hold of yourself. “We wouldn’t be Irish if we didn’t. We all know secrets, but we just tell only one person.”
He nodded knowingly. “And that person tells another, and before you know it, everyone in the world knows everything?”
I nodded again and smiled like some goofy teenager. “It seems as though you’ve caught on.”
“I’ve only been here a short time, but I catch on very quickly.” He looked toward the house and pointed. “I need to go in there.”
“Then I need to warn you that there are a couple of those O’Donohue men in there.”
“I bet I can guess which ones. One of them called me. It was nice to save you.”
Save me? Right, from the fall. He began to shut my door, but I braced my arm against it. “I didn’t get your name.”
He shook his head shyly, and smiled again. He seemingly thought that could distract me. “No, you didn’t. Sorry, occupational hazard. Be careful out there.” He closed my door very unceremoniously.
I watched him pull his coat’s lapels up around his neck. He shoved his hands inside his pockets and began to walk toward the house. He turned around once to look back at me. I smiled like an idiot just in case he could see that far. Then he disappeared into the structure. I also saw a curtain move in one of the windows on the third floor. Then I saw another curtain flowing freely on the second floor, but I also saw a shape, a dark form. The curtain was pulled back and then fluttered back into place. It was nothing, probably just a draft, wasn’t it? I was only lying to myself. I knew what I saw. The spirit haunting that house was very concerned with the man who was entering the old Taylor Club, but I was more intrigued by the stranger.
I bit my lip. “Who was that?”

Title: Broken Armor

Series: Broken Hearts of Harbor’s Head
Author: Brooke Burton
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: March 20, 2023
Cover Design: EmCat Designs

When Grayson Mitchell is assigned to watch over Gina until she testifies against the man who killed her father, he figures it’ll be an easy job. What he didn’t expect were the challenges he’d face guarding this hot, quick-tempered hellcat who sets his blood on fire. But as they spend more time together, they form an unbreakable friendship which has her leaning on him in ways he’s never experienced before. When the threat passes and they give in to their attraction, they indulge in one incredible night of passion. But the following morning, Gina throws up walls that nearly destroy their friendship, as well as any potential to be together.
Thanks to losing everyone she’s ever loved, Gina was forged in the fires of Hell to become who she is today. But she’d turn back time in a heartbeat to spare herself the trauma of losing the people she loved. On the outside, she appeared a confident woman in charge of her own destiny. The truth was each day was a step forward into a bleak life of complete isolation. One of her own choosing.
When her father’s murderer escapes from prison, duty throws them back together again. It doesn’t take long before the sparks between them burn hotter than fireworks. Can Grayson protect Gina from the threat at hand, as well as his desire for her? Even more, can Gina let go of the past and let Grayson in, knowing that her love may well be his death sentence?
This is a standalone, 3-chili pepper spice read (on a scale of 1-5) with mild swearing and a guaranteed HEA!
“Gina?”

Looking up Gina saw Iain Henderson, their lifelong neighbor, make his way across the backyard and over to the wooden fence that divided their properties. She’d babysat his daughters from time to time when she was in high school. After she moved away, they stayed in touch on occasion. A couple of times, when she’d come back to the area, he’d asked her to babysit. She always agreed, happy to be out of her mother’s house, if only for a night. Iain had been a single dad for the entire time she’d known him, and sometimes when he was lonely, it coincided with her lonely periods as well. They’d hooked up a couple of times over the years. He’d actually been the first man she’d been with after—

Stop.

“Hey, Iain.” She waved, but it already felt forced as more unwelcome memories threatened to flood her brain. He’d put his seductive face on as he cockily walked over and casually draped his forearm across the fence. While Iain was great to look at and kept himself up for his age, he was no lion trying to woo a mate. He was more of a raccoon looking for food because it was a life’s necessity, having a peek inside the nearest trash barrel because it was available.

“Hey you,” he responded back. “Visiting your folks?”

“Unfortunately.” The word slid out of her mouth way too easily.

Iain laughed, not unfamiliar with the tensions in her family. “Listen, if you feel like getting away, I’m right next door. You’re always welcome to come over and visit.”

Yeah, she already knew what he meant by visiting.

“Sorry, I can’t.” She wasn’t sure what was more appealing at the moment. Meaningless sex with a friend or trite conversation with her family.

Really, it was a toss-up.

Gina heard the patio door open and turned to see Grayson approaching. Only Grayson didn’t look at ease. The last time she saw him like this was when he’d interrupted Owen asking her out. His eyes were fixed on Iain, and he looked like…well, a lion stalking his prey. Turning back to Iain, Gina almost burst out laughing at the wide-eyed look on his face as he took a step back from the fence.

“Hey, babe,” Grayson said in a dark, husky voice as he slid his hands over her hips from behind. She wore a cami-style tank top, the thin material allowing her to feel every last sensation of him behind her. Dropping a mind-boggling kiss on her bare shoulder, Gina felt her eyes go wide, and her knees practically knock together. “Who’s your friend?”

Gina took a moment to swallow and try to remember who this guy across the fence was. “T-that’s Iain. An old friend.”

Gina felt Grayson’s head nod next to her own in acknowledgment as he pulled her tighter to his chest and wrapped his arms around her like he was claiming her for his own.

“Hey,” Iain acknowledged. “Look, Gina, I’ve gotta run. I’ll catch up with you later.”

She didn’t have a chance to respond before Iain was retreating back into the safety of his house.

Leaving her out on the patio, alone, enveloped in Grayson.

“What are you doing?” she whispered tersely, all while trying to discreetly swallow the lump in her throat. “Could you be more obvious?”

She felt his deep chuckle vibrate through his chest to her back. “Had to be. Otherwise, that guy’d be over here right now humping your leg.”

“Maybe I wanted him over here humping my leg. Did you ever think of that?” She spun around to face him, realizing the error of her ways as her breasts brushed against his chest.

And by the way his eyes darkened, she guessed he’d realized it too.

Grayson had the audacity to smile at her, settling his hands against her lower back. “Well, if a quick and unsatisfying roll in the hay is what you’re after…” He paused, smirking. “Never mind, I’ll never be able to help you with that.”

Gina’s eyes grew at his boldness, as well as his… promise? Images flashed through Gina’s mind of every dish on that patio table crashing to the cement beneath it, her on top of it with Grayson on top of her, ravishing her. Her mouth suddenly dry, she licked her lips and tried to get them to form words again. “What makes you think I’d want that?”

Grayson pulled her in so close his lips were practically feathering against the outside of her ear. “If you didn’t want it, I’d respect that. But if our situation was different, I have no doubt everything about us would be explosive.” His words puffed warmly against her ear, causing her to shiver and hold on tighter to the biceps she hadn’t realized she was clutching.

“Grayson, what do you like better, mashed potatoes or corn? Oh!” Gina’s mother said, realizing she’d walked in on a tender moment.

Course it didn’t stop her.

“I have both. You know what? Maybe I’ll just make both.”

Copyright © 2023, Brooke Burton. All rights reserved
Brooke writes 3/5 medium spice, mildly sweary, contemporary romance. A tortured artist who began writing plays in the 3rd grade, she lost her muse as a teen and struggled for years to write again. Finally, after being inspired by some old friends during the pandemic, her writing came to fruition again in what became her first published novel.
Inspired by strong women who have very little tolerance for bull, she enjoys exploring equality in relationships with broken characters who clearly have made past mistakes. Don’t we all?
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Title: Flirting with the Stranger
Series: Harbor Highlands Series
Author: Gia Stevens
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Tropes: Strangers to Lovers, One Night Stand, Reverse Age Gap, Dirty Talking Hero, Boss/Employee
Release Date: March 20, 2023
 
 
 
 
 
 
A spicy boss/employee, reverse age gap novel by romantic comedy author Gia Stevens…
 
Have you ever mistaken a guy for a stripper and had a scorching hot one-night stand with him only to find out he’s your new boss? No? Just me?
 
The first time I met Van, I was instantly drawn to his charismatic smile and stunning good looks as I shoved dollar bills into his waistband.
 
The second time I saw Van, he walked into my bakery as the new owner and boss. That time, I kept my dollars to myself.
 
But there’s a problem, owning a bakery wasn’t his choice and all he wants is to sell. Somehow, I need to persuade him to keep the business, so I can keep my dream job. When he admits he doesn’t know the difference between “frosting” and “icing,” I realize I have my work cut out for me.
 
With each passing day, our chemistry ignites like a chocolate flambé. But it’s a distraction I don’t need. I know from experience that when I wish for everything, I end up with nothing.
 
Van’s young and irresponsible, he can’t possibly know anything about running a bakery or falling in love. But he’s determined to prove me wrong.
 
It turns out he has a few cupcakes up his sleeve that just might satisfy my sweet tooth.
 
Flirting with the Stranger is a reverse age gap, strangers to lovers, boss/employee romantic comedy with a hero who has a real sweet tooth for something besides cupcakes. Be prepared to laugh-out-loud one minute and swoon the next in this steamy standalone romantic comedy. Each book in the Harbor Highlands Series is set in the same world and a guaranteed happily ever after.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

“Finally, you’re here.”

“Oh. Um.” Play it cool, Van. Don’t let the hot girl get you tongue tied. “Of course, where else would I be?” I flash her a dimpled smile.

“No, seriously. You’re an hour late. The least you could’ve done was call. We have a group of girls who are ready to see you take your clothes off. Let’s go.” Her dainty fingers wrap around my wrist. The warm contact sends a current of electricity coursing through my body as she tugs me up the stairs.

“Wait.” I plant my feet. “What are you talking about? Take my clothes off? I think I deserve dinner before I get naked.” I flash her a seductive smile. 

“Dinner? Are you kidding? We weren’t told we had to feed you.” She drops my hand and rests it on her hip. “Look, we have a thousand dollars for you plus tips, if you’re good, to take your clothes off and shake your ass while we all ooh and ahh over your ripped abs. You have ripped abs, right?” She lifts the hem of my shirt, exposing my hard six pack. “Oh yes, that’ll do.” Her gaze lingers on my exposed stomach for a few extra seconds before she reluctantly drops the fabric. “So, are you coming or am I calling your boss to tell him you won’t do your job?”

Fuck. She thinks I’m a stripper for her party. But it pays a thousand dollars plus tips. Since I’m jobless, I could use the cash. I wager the battle in my head for a split second and, fuck it. First time for everything. “Lead the way.” 

She spins around and climbs the stairs, the shimmering sequins on the ass of her dress hypnotizing as her hips sway back and forth. As the giggles and laughter grow louder, I second guess myself. I’ve never done this before. I mean, I’ve gotten naked before, just never with more than one girl watching.

“Our entertainment has arrived!” the bombshell announces to her friends.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gia Stevens resides in the up north of Minnesota. She lives for the warm, sunny days of summer and dreads the bitter cold of winter. A romantic comedy junkie at heart, she knew she wanted her own stories to encompass those same feelings.

When she’s not busy writing your next book boyfriend, Gia can be found playing in her vegetable garden, watching reruns of The OC and Gossip Girl, or curled up with a good book.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Title: Tempt
Series: Brooklet Dreams Series
Author: CA Harms
Genre: Childhood Crush, Second Chance Romance (standalone)
Release Date: March 14, 2023
Cover Design: Melissa Gill Designs

 
A sullen girl with an untold story…
Eyes so blue I swear it’s like looking at the turquoise waters of the Greek Isles.
Those are the first memories I have of Kyra.
For years I stood on the sidelines, watching and waiting for my perfect chance.
Wanting her so badly, consumes my every thought.
There are so many things I thought I knew. But the truth is… I don’t know the real Kyra.
But what I do know is that I will stop at nothing to know her. I am mesmerized by her beauty, captured by her smile, and warmed by the love she has for her Gran.
Her laughter is addictive and her touch, soothes every single doubt I’ve ever had. Kyra is the one I want, the one I’ve always wanted.
She tempted me with just one glimpse of her mesmerizing eyes and now, I crave more.
I have every intention of showing her how amazing we can be together.
Because she became mine a long time ago, I felt it the first time I saw her captivating eyes.
It’s time I go after the one I’ve wanted. The one that I’ve dreamed of…
The one temptation I’ve never been able to shake.
CLICK HERE to enter on CA Harm’s Facebook Page
 
CLICK HERE to enter in The Charmed Girls – FB Group
 
 
 

C.A. Harms is an avid romance and mystery reader. She’s always had a love for books, getting lost in writing and storytelling even as a young girl. She enjoys happy endings and HEA love stories.
 
She lives in Illinois and enjoys spending time with her husband and two children. She holds an addiction for Starbucks White Chocolate Mocha’s and KitKat when she should really be focusing on water and maybe a fruit or two to make herself feel less guilty, but that feeling quickly passes…thankfully.
 
She is easy going, fun, and although she may seem like one of the quiet ones at first, you just wait until she gets to know you better…that quietness changes, fast.
 
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