S. Massery is a dark romance author who loves injecting a good dose of suspense into her stories. She lives in Western Massachusetts with her dog, Alice.
Before adventuring into the world of writing, she went to college in Boston and held a wide variety of jobs–including working on a dude ranch in Wyoming (a personal highlight). She has a love affair with coffee and chocolate. When S. Massery isn’t writing, she can be found devouring books, playing outside with her dog, or trying to make people smile.
By Fate I Conquer, a highly-anticipated dark mafia standalone romance from USA Today bestselling author Cora Reilly is live now!
Amo Do you believe in love at first sight? In a love so strong and bright, it ignites you even in your darkest hours? Do you believe that somewhere in this world there’s someone who’s destined to be your other half? Your soulmate? I didn’t. Until I met her. Greta Falcone. Protected mafia princess from the madmen of Las Vegas, she’s forbidden to me.
Greta My love for my family and my animals was all I needed. I never thought I’d fall in love. Until I met him. Amo Vitiello. Future Capo of the Famiglia. Cruel and cold. The smiles that he has only for me quiet the chaos in my head. What if you find your soulmate at the wrong time? I knew the cruelest men, and yet nothing could ever be crueler than fate itself.
About Cora Cora Reilly is the author of the Born in Blood Mafia Series, The Camorra Chronicles and many other books, most of them featuring dangerously sexy bad boys. Before she found her passion in romance books, she was a traditionally published author of young adult literature. Cora lives in Germany with a cute but crazy Bearded Collie, as well as the cute but crazy man at her side. When she doesn’t spend her days dreaming up sexy books, she plans her next travel adventure or cooks too spicy dishes from all over the world. Despite her law degree, Cora prefers to talk books to laws any day.
When there is Love at Sea, can a pretend romance turn into something more? When Adrienne Hart finds herself the only uncoupled member of her friends on a love cruise, finding a fake boyfriend is the answer to her current dilemma. In a similar situation, Aris McElfry thinks agreeing to be a gorgeous woman’s fake fiance will either be a genius move or a total ship show. Fans of romantic comedies will adore TOTAL SHIP SHOW by Susan Renee, a sexy fake relationship romance.
My old college friends decided we need to take a group cruise, significant others included. There’s just one small hiccup…I’m woefully single. I ask a friend to come with me to pose as my boyfriend, but he backs out on me at the last minute. What’s a girl to do on a cruise as a single person? Wait…what? It’s a lover’s cruise? Oooh ship! No way am I spending the week with my friends as the only single in the group. I’ve got to find myself a hot, fake boyfriend, or better yet, a fake fiancé for the week. It can’t be that hard. There have to be plenty of single men on the ship. One of them is bound to say yes. I’ll just board the ship as early as possible and hope I bump into someone worthy. Okay, yeah. This could work. It’ll either be a genius move… Or a total ship show.
Total Ship Show is a fake romance rom-com, part of the Love at Sea multi-author series. Get ready to set sail through the Caribbean on Festival Cruises’ most alluring voyage with eight of your favorite authors – happily ever after guaranteed!
Experience everything the Love at Sea series has to offer. From speed dating to masquerades, guests are sure to enjoy the hot days and steamy nights. Explore hidden waterfalls, swim with dolphins, and watch as eight couples find their forever on the open ocean.
“Okay, I lied, alright? Yes. I’m a single girl on this lovey dovey cruise because my wingman of a friend back home fell in love with some girl and thought it uncouth to come away with me for a week. I mean, can you even imagine the nerve of him?” I scoff trying to play off the fact I’m a single loser on a love cruise.
Hottie McBlue-eyes shakes his head as if I’m telling the most unbelievable tale. “What kind of asshole is a wingman for his female friend and falls in love with another girl instead of the one right in front of him?”
Maybe it’s the Corona, but I immediately feel my cheeks blush. “Okay, first of all, I’m going to take that as a compliment, so thank you very much. And secondly, ew no. Joaquin and I have only ever been just friends. Honestly, I thought he was gay for years, but turns out he’s not.” I shrug. “I’m just sooo not his type which is totally fine. I’m happy he’s happy…even if that puts me here alone…and in need of a good lie to tell my friends.”
“Oh, so you’re not really here alone. You have your friends.”
“Well yes and no. My old sorority sisters planned this couples’ trip. So, they’re all bringing their significant others. I just uhh…I haven’t told them that my significant other bailed.”
“Meh, it won’t be so bad. Maybe you’ll find some hot guy aboard to pal around with. “
A snort escapes me. “Yeah. Maybe I’ll meet and fall in love with some hot doctor and live happily ever after, right? I mean stranger things have happened in this crazy world, right?”
Hottie McBlue-eyes chokes on his sip and coughs a few times. “Stranger things have definitely happened, I’m sure.”
I offer my hand to my airport friend. “I’m Adrienne, by the way. I don’t think I ever told you that, and while referring to me as Dildo Girl is pretty damn funny, I figured after holding my pink sparkly dick in your hands, you deserve to know my name.”
Laughing he takes his hand in mine. “Pleasure to meet you, Adrienne. That’s a beautiful name by the way. I’m Aris McElfry.”
“Nice to meet you Aris. I didn’t see you on the plane with anyone either. Are you telling me you’re also here alone?”
“Well, as a matter of fact—”
“Shit. It can’t be.”
What is he doing here?
“What?” Aris watches me, alarmed by my outburst.
I plaster a neutral smile on my face and murmur through my teeth.
“Shit. Shit. Shit.”
Are they seriously together?
My heart beats faster inside my chest and there’s a sickening feeling in the pit of my stomach.
“What? What’s wrong?”
I slowly turn toward Aris and give him the biggest puppy dog eyes I can muster while speaking as softly and quickly as I can. “Look, I know you don’t really know me, and I don’t know you, but you were kind enough to hold my sparkly dick in your hands and that has to say something for the kind of man that you are, right? So, if you would be willing to do me one more hella-huge favor I would be in your debt for like…my whole life…or this whole cruise…whichever comes first and right now my whole life could come first and anyway I promise to leave you alone after this and—”
“Anything.” He interrupts, holding my gaze. “Name it.”
I gulp down my fear and my pride and swiftly blurt out my request with a shaky voice. “I need a boyfriend. Like, right here. Right now. Because the man walking toward us in the yellow shirt is my ex and I had no idea he was going to be here, now I’m horrified I might have to spend this entire trip with him gloating that I’m here alone and he’s obviously not. And to add fuel to that already burning inferno, the girl with him is one of my friends and I had no idea the two of them were a thing and now if I have to tell him I’m alone, I may as well walk off this fucking ship right n—”
Before I can finish my sentence, Aris’s arm slides around my waist and he pulls me into his chest.
Hooooly God, he smells good.
“Stop talking,” he whispers against my mouth. “I get it.” The energy swiftly changes between us and oh, my God it’s hard to breathe. “I’m going to kiss you, alright? Like, really fucking kiss you so that douche sees that you belong to someone else now. Smile at me and tell me quick, is that okay?”
About Susan Renee
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.
Get ready to set sail through the Caribbean on Festival Cruises’ most alluring voyage with eight of your favorite authors – happily ever after guaranteed!
Experience everything the Love at Sea series has to offer. From speed dating to masquerades, guests are sure to enjoy the hot days and steamy nights. Explore hidden waterfalls, swim with dolphins, and watch as eight couples find their forever on the open ocean.
Each story features a brand new couple and a fun trope from our amazing line up of authors including: Kate Stacy, HM Thomas, Mari Sol, S.A. Clayton, T.L. Anderson, Karigan Hale, Susan Renee, and A.M. Williams.
This promotional event is brought to you by TheIndie Pen PR
#1 New York Times bestselling author of The Selection series Kiera Cass is back with her most epic novel yet—a sweeping enemies-to-lovers standalone romance.
“Love has a sound. It sounds like a thousand heartbeats happening at the same time.”
Princess Annika has lived a life of comfort—but no amount of luxuries can change the fact that her life isn’t her own to control. The king, once her loving father, has gone cold, and Annika will soon be forced into a loveless marriage for political gain.
Miles away, small comforts are few and far between for Lennox. He has devoted his life to the Dahrainian army, hoping to one day help them reclaim the throne that was stolen from them. For Lennox, the idea of love is merely a distraction—nothing will stand in the way of fighting for his people.
But when love, against all odds, finds them both, they are bound by its call. They can’t possibly be together—but the irresistible thrum of a thousand heartbeats won’t let them stay apart.
Kiera Cass brings her signature sparkling romance to this beautiful story of star-crossed lovers and long-held secrets.
“Love doesn’t look like anything.” “Love has a sound. It sounds like a thousand heartbeats happening at the same time. It sounds like the rush of a waterfall or the still of the world at daybreak. You can hear it at night, lulling you to sleep, and, in the middle of your darkesst days, it breaks through like a laugh.”
“It had been fascinating to watch how love chipped the jagged edges from someone, made them sharper in some ways and softer in others. It left me, for the first time, awed by the prospect. Love is complicated. Compicated, but so unexpectedly beautiful.”
“It was so easy. I understood now why anyone dared to let someone else have control over their heart. She could do whatever she wanted. She could throw my heart back into that hurricane, and I would thank her for it. I was hers. I was Annika’s. And there was nothing to be done about it.”
I have been a fan of Kiera Cass’ books for quite some time. She captured my heart with the Selection series and stole it once again with A Thousand Heartbeats.
From the moment my eyes caught the cover of A Thousand Heartbeats, I knew I had to read this book. I mean how could you possibly go wrong with the enemies-to-lovers trope in a fantasy setting? And let me tell you, this book does not disappoint. I was sucked into Lennox and Annika’s story from the very first page. Despite being from two very different backgrounds, Annika and Lennox’s background was very similar. Both of them were broken by the direction their lives took, but their sense of duty kept pushing them along. Lennox and Annika are destined to be enemies but for these two fate has other plans. And so begins an unforgettable, fantastical story of love against all odds and the duty their lives have thrust upon them…
A Thousand Heartbeats is a fantastic read from beginning to end. I loved the plot and the rich scenery. I loved the characters, flaws, and all. I will be the first to admit that this book does start out a bit slow but, honestly, that is to be expected with a fantasy novel. But I promise the pace does pick up around the 40% mark.
As far as characters go, I absolutely adored Annika and Lennox. Annika might have been a princess, but don’t let her status fool you. There is so much more to this girl than meets the eye and she is so much stronger than people give her credit for. And Lennox, 100% had my heart from the beginning. There was just something about him that intrigued me. I loved his sense of duty and how he was desperately trying to right a wrong. Together, these two were destined to be enemies and I love watching their relationship grow and change throughout the story.
In the end, A Thousand Heartbeats was everything I was hoping it would be. I thoroughly enjoyed getting lost in this story. If you’re looking for a Young Adult Fantasy novel with an enemies-to-lovers/starcrossed lovers vibe, you won’t want to miss A Thousand Heartbeats.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
The Broadway Series is relaunching with new titles and gorgeous new covers! Allie York brings you five steamy, suspenseful romance reads with everything from single parents and secret admirers, to surprise babies and more – all in one heartwarming series.
Chance Blurb
Jovie
Between running a successful business and attempting to pen a best-selling novel, I don’t have the time or energy for the kind or romance I love to write about.
So, I let it fall to the wayside.
The thing is, life has a funny way of delivering what you need when you least expect it. And trust me, I was not expecting a poodle to be the one delivering a sexy Brit into my world.
Ewan
A tragic accident left me with time for only one woman in my life – my little sister, Amelia. Raising a teenager is enough work without adding in the hassle that comes with relationships.
But when my disobedient dog, Clark, crashes into a sexy dog trainer and practically bows at her feet, the attraction is immediate.
The chemistry between us is hard to fight and Jovie fits comfortably in my life with Amelia.
It’s all or nothing when someone else decides they want to change the game. Someone deadly, who has their sights set on what’s mine.
This is my first book by Allie York and it certainly won’t be my last!
Between running her own business and attempting to write a best-selling novel, Jovie doesn’t have time for love. But when a chance encounter with a disobedient dog has Ewan crashing into her life, Jovie’s left wanting things she never anticipated.
I was pulled into Jovie and Ewan’s story from the very first page. The sparks between the two of them were instant and I loved the push and pull. Neither one of them was looking for a relationship, but fate had plans of its own. The road to happily ever after certainly wasn’t an easy one for these two. Jovie’s crazed client certainly stirred up trouble, keeping things interesting and leaving me on the edge of my seat as the story played out.
This series is off to one heck of a start and I can’t wait to see what adventure is in store for us next in the Broadway series.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Change Blurb
Lydia
Raising Ollie alone hasn’t been an easy task but there was no other option. Thirteen years ago, I let his father walk away – without knowing the truth.
I always thought it was for the best. Maintaining the secret about Ollie’s true parentage seems like the right thing to do.
But a chance run in with Jacob stirs up all the emotions I thought I’d left in the past and sends my world crashing down around us.
I’m forced to come clean and share my son with a man I never thought I’d see again.
I didn’t think we’d have forever…
Jacob
My life is nothing like I planned.
As if the death of my mother wasn’t enough, I managed to lose my wife and the roof over my head in one fell swoop. But, my ex’s infidelity isn’t the end of the lies. Returning to my hometown brings a whole new set of obstacles, including a son I never knew I had.
While Lydia’s world is tumbling, I’m realizing this could be my chance at the family I never knew I was missing.
Everything threatens to tear us apart.
I’m fighting for my family, while Lydia is battling her heart.
It’s a vicious game of tug-of-war because life and emotions are never simple. But, we could have had forever, can I convince her we could have it again?
“All the stuff I never knew I wanted was locked away in that house…”
Oh, man! I thought the first book in this series kept me on my toes, but boy was I in for a real treat with the second book in this series.
Book 2 follows the story of Jacob and Lydia. Their relationship starts off with a bit of an unconventional start. It was supposed to be a summer of fun. No promises. No falling in love. But, life had other plans in store for these two. When Jacob leaves for the job of his dreams, Lydia’s world gets turned upside down in the most unexpected way. It will be 12 years before these two former flames are reunited and once Jacob discovers what he’s missed out on, he’s a man on a mission who will do anything to get Lydia back.
I absolutely loved Jacob and Lydia’s story. It was consuming and entertaining at the same time. It checked off some of my favorite tropes: taboo/forbidden elements, second-chance romance, and surprise baby. The characters were relatable and intriguing. The plot was well-paced and kept me sucked in the entire time. I adored Jacob and Lydia as a couple. Sure they had their imperfections and didn’t always communicate best, but I think that’s what made them so real and relatable. Their road to happily ever after was filled with many obstacles for them to overcome and I thoroughly enjoyed their journey.
Another great read from Allie York. I can’t wait to start book 3.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Chase Blurb
Harriet
In less than a week, I’ve found myself homeless and alone.
What else is a girl to do when life keeps kicking me down? The only thing I know how.
Start over.
With a couple of bags and a scrap of paper, I put myself on a bus and set off across the country to the one friend I know I can turn to.
I had no intention of falling in love.
Then I found a notebook.
Briggs
I’ve always been the underdog. Coming into this world four minutes behind my twin brother Beck has never bothered me. Being burned, both literally and figuratively by Beck is a different story though.
With a failed engagement, a sick mother and a party-boy brother, most of my life is a blur.
Until I see her.
But lots of words and a dark cloud from her past threaten to tear it all apart.
Will she be able to see past the secrets to find who truly admirers her?
This is the third book in the Broadway Series but can be read and enjoyed as a standalone novel. Book 3 follows the story of Harriet and Briggs. Harriet will capture readers’ hearts instantly with her tough life and free spirit. Everything that could go wrong for Harriet does, and just when she thinks life is going to give her a break, it throws more obstacles her way. Briggs’ life has been anything but easy. He always seems to be in competition with his unworthy brother. I couldn’t help but root for Briggs to find some form of happiness.
Overall, I thought this book was an enjoyable read. I liked Briggs and Harriet together. I thought they had wonderful chemistry and they definitely had me rooting for them. I loved that their story kept me on my toes not only in the romance department, but it also had its fair share of mystery and intrigue. All in all a great addition to this series.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Choose Blurb
Cori
Single mom, fearless, perpetually loveless.
With an ex-husband in prison and a feisty daughter to raise on my own, there was no time for anything else.
Sure, I may have needed a lot of things, but a man was not one of them. In fact, a man was the reason for every bit of misery in my life.
But, when a new girl joins my daughter Axel’s ballet class, with the company of her tall, tatted, sexy and very single dad, my ideas about men start to shift. Getting to know Griffin and his daughter, Celia, makes it harder to ignore not trying my hand at love again.
If only my head and my heart can see that we are worth it.
Griffin
Single dad, inked, badass.
Believe me when I tell you, no one was more surprised than me to find out that I had a kid – a daughter. Five years old when some social worker dropped her in my lap. My life was literally flipped upside down. Instead of late nights with loose women, I found myself home in time for bedtime stories and a house filled with more pink stuff than I could ever imagine.
With my priorities now firmly shifted from fun to family, falling for Cori is easy. Especially when her own daughter, Axel, breaks through Celia’s hard shell.
Now if I could just convince Griffin that one family together is better than two apart.
I’ve got my work cut out for me since we’re all a little tattered & bruised.
Book 4 is by far and away my favorite book in this series so far. From the moment you meet Cori and Griffin, you will be immediately captivated by their story. Cori is a single mom with her own share of baggage, just trying to do the best for her daughter. Finding love was the last thing on her mind until Griffin walked into her life. Griffin is best known for his playboy ways, but when he finds out he’s got a daughter he never knew about, he does a complete 360. He would move heaven and earth for his daughter. This former playboy is in for quite the journey and when he sets his sights on Cori, all bets are off.
I absolutely loved Cori and Griffin’s story. I knew one day, Griffin would meet a girl who would turn his world upside down and I am so happy that day has finally come. Cori and Griffin had some insane chemistry that just oozed off of the pages. Both of them had their own share of baggage and obstacles to overcome, but their journey was so worth it. I loved every second of this story from the plot to the romance to the twist that kept me on my toes. My only complaint is that this story came to an end.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Cherish Blurb
Meredith
Okay, maybe running away from my family and moving cross country with my boyfriend was a bad idea. A really bad idea.
For two years I let a man dull my shine and to leave me beaten and broken until I couldn’t take any more.
With a new life growing inside me, I know it’s time for me to go back home, even if my family never forgives me for the hurt I have caused.
The last thing I’m looking for is for someone to save, especially when I’m trying to save myself.
But something about Beck pulls me in.
Beck
I’m a horrible person. I know it and so does everyone else.
Everyday it gets harder to dull the pain and forget the past.
After waking up in a seedy hotel with a woman I don’t even recognize, I’m sure my life isn’t even worth it any more.
I’m just about to end it all when my salvation stumbles into my lap.
Meredith has every reason to push me away. But, I’m determined to prove to her (and myself) that I am the better man.
I can’t believe I’ve finally reached the end of the Broadway Series! It’s been such a fun and wild ride and book 5 doesn’t disappoint.
Meredith returns home after a long two years away when life has thrown her more than she can handle. The last thing she expected was to fall, literally into the hands of another man. Meredith’s life is more complicated than anyone could imagine and when Beck enters the picture, it’s game over. Will Beck turn out to be the knight in shining armor Meredith never saw coming? There’s only one way to find out…
Now I’ll be honest, getting to know Beck from the previous stories, I wasn’t 100% sure about him or whether or not his character could be redeemed, and boy was I glad to be proven wrong. I loved seeing Beck’s world get knocked off its axis. Not only did meeting Meredith change his ways for the better, but it also opened his eyes to a future he never knew he wanted. Meredith certainly wasn’t without her faults. She had her own past and mistakes to make up for and despite the warnings, she heard about Beck, the moment she met him it was like all the stars aligned and I was excited to see how their story would play out.
All in all, I think book 5 is an excellent addition to this series. This story was well-written and entertaining. I thought Meredith and Beck made the perfect match and loved their instant chemistry. Their story was filled with its share of ups and downs, but the journey was worth it in the end. I’m so glad that this author decided to write Beck’s story.
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Excerpt from Chance, book one in The Broadway Series
Copyright 2022 Allie York
We hadn’t even made it to the mailbox before the leash was pulled from my hand and the hard plastic was bouncing behind him as he bolted down the street. I growled a series of curses worthy of making a sailor blush and took off in a run after him, screaming his name. Once I caught him, his slow painful death was inevitable. I would kill him and relish every second of it. I lost sight of him as I rounded a corner and skidded to a halt, nearly tripping over a crack in the sidewalk. I spotted him as he ran full-force into someone walking their dog and panicked. It wouldn’t be the first person my idiot dog leveled on a walk.
I took off as fast as I could, yelling at him, only to find the woman holding his leash with a very pissed off expression. I let her place the leash in my hand, doubling over to catch my breath and being assaulted by my own stupid animal. Her sheepdog stood still by her side in statuesque annoyance. I apologized, asking if he had knocked her over, to which she responded with a curt, “No.” The woman held out a card. Fantastic. My horrid beast had run into a dog trainer. A very lovely dog trainer.
About Allie York
I’m a mom, wife, and dog groomer by day. At night I write contemporary romance. I love funny dog videos, I read naughty books, and drink too much coffee.
Over a year – that’s how long he’s been gone now. Not knowing if he’s alive or dead, Willow has suffered through the hardest time of her life. With no ending in sight, it almost feels like she’ll never breathe again. Jagger saved her, gave up his life for hers, and left her alone and broken. Then, without warning, the gang left her, too. Leaving her with nothing. No one. That is until they decided to show up again, out of the blue. They want to help. They’re giving her hope. Can she get Jagger back? Is she willing to risk her life for him? Is she willing to give it all up to save him? She’s not the same person she was a year ago, things have changed, she has changed. But she still holds a piece of him close, a piece of him he hasn’t yet met. Their son. Can she risk both of them, to save the man she loves? Come on this wild conclusion to the Dark Brother series and fall in love all over again!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Bella Jewel is a self published, USA Today bestselling author. She’s been publishing since 2013. Her first release was a contemporary romance, Hell’s Knights which topped the charts upon release. Since that time, she has published over twenty-five novels, gaining a bestseller status on numerous platforms. She lives in North Queensland with her fiancé and four beautiful kids. Bella has been writing since she was just shy of fifteen years old. In Summer 2013 she was offered an ebook deal through Montlake Romance for her bestselling modern day pirate series, Enslaved By The Ocean. In 2016 she signed a three book deal with St Martin’s Press, and another three just a year later. She plans to expand her writing career, planning many new releases for the future.
TEMPT, an all-new steamy small town, one-night-stand, age gap romance featuring a plus-sized heroine and a hot single dad from USA Today and #1 Amazon Bestselling Author Melanie Harlow, is now available!
You’ve heard the story about the wedding planner who falls for the groom? Well, this is the one where she falls for his father. And that groom? He’s my ex.
I didn’t realize who the gruff, gorgeous older man was the night he rescued me from a creep in a Manhattan hotel bar. All I knew was that a hot, bearded stranger with a protective streak showed up right when I needed a reminder that real gentlemen still exist.
(Although he left his manners behind after asking me up to his room.)
It was the hottest night of my life, but I never thought I’d see the former Navy SEAL again.
Imagine my surprise at the rehearsal dinner one week later, when my sexy one-night stand is introduced as the father of the groom. Even more surprising? That temptation we felt in New York was no fluke.
In public, we pretend there’s nothing between us.
In private, we can’t keep our hands off each other.
The situation is beyond complicated. Zach never even knew he’d fathered a child until recently, and he wants to earn his son’s trust and respect. As for me, I’m looking for a man who wants to start a family, and Zach has made it clear he’s not that man. He’s fifteen years older, newly divorced, and he lives across the country.
But no matter how many times we draw the line, we keep crossing it.
Nothing so wrong should ever feel so right.
Grab your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!
I was just lifting the glass to my lips when I noticed someone sitting around the curve of the bar to the left. He was broad through the chest and shoulders, wore a black dress shirt with the cuffs rolled up, and sat alone. His hair and beard were short and dark. Our eyes met and my body grew warm. His bone structure was beautiful—his face looked like it was chiseled from granite. He held my gaze for a moment then looked away, and I did as well, focusing on the first cold sips of my martini.
But in seconds, my eyes were drawn to him again, and I noticed the hand holding his glass—wide palm, long, solid fingers, thick wrist. I indulged in a brief and magnificent fantasy that involved those hands in my hair, his beard against my cheek, that brawny chest bare and warm above me. Was it hairy? I’d bet yes. He looked like a man’s man. My nipples tingled inside the bustier I wore beneath my dress.
Once more he caught me staring, and I realized too late that I was actually biting my lip.
Gawd.
The guy next to me whistled loudly and yelled at the bartender, “Hey! Can I get another round down here?”
The bartender, who was busy making other drinks, didn’t even look over. I didn’t blame him.
“The service is so shitty in this place,” he said. “You need a pair of tits to get any attention.” He glanced at my chest. “Yours are fantastic, by the way.”
Horrified, I picked up my glass and finished my drink in a couple swallows. I should have thrown it in his face, but it would have been a waste of a good martini. Setting the empty glass down, I reached into my bag for my credit card.
“Hey, don’t rush off.” The asshole leaned closer. He wore a white shirt and blue blazer, and he reeked of cologne. “We’re just getting to know each other.”
“Not interested,” I said, trying to catch the bartender’s eye so I could get my check and leave.
“Why not? I’m alone, you’re alone.” He covered my hand with his. That’s when I noticed he wore a wedding band.
I snatched my hand away and slid off my stool, putting it between us. “I’m not alone.”
“Oh no?” He laughed and glanced around. “Looks like it to me.”
I finally caught the bartender’s eye, and he came right over. “Can I get you something?”
“I’ll cash out,” I said quickly.
The bartender glanced at the asshole. “Everything okay?”
“Everything’s fine, I was just waiting for someone, but he couldn’t make it, so I—”
“Sorry I’m late.” A hand circled my wrist.
Startled, I spun around and saw a black shirt. Wide shoulders. Dark eyes.
The hot stranger and I exchanged a look of understanding before he leaned in and kissed my cheek. His beard was softer than I’d imagined.
“Forgive me?” His voice, by contrast, was deep and gravelly.
“Of—of course,” I stammered, my heart pounding. I couldn’t stop staring—the guy was gorgeous. A little older than I’d thought—there was silver in his hair and beard—but those dark eyes, that deep voice, and the possessive grip on my wrist? The whole package made my knees go weak.
He looked over my head at the bartender. “She’s with me.”
“Dude, she’s not with you,” argued the jerk in the blazer. “You were over there by yourself a minute ago. I saw you.”
Dropping my wrist, the stranger turned to him and growled, “You should go.”
The jerk slid off his barstool and put one palm up. “Listen, I don’t want any trouble. I just thought—”
“It’s fuckin’ obvious what you thought.” The stranger’s words were laced with fury, but he kept his volume low. Somehow it was even scarier than if he’d yelled. “Now get the fuck out of here, and don’t even look in her direction as you walk out, or you’ll be trying to do it with two broken legs.”
The jerk stood up taller, like he might be thinking of protesting, but he looked like a gerbil facing off against a Doberman. Then he adjusted his lapels and moved toward the exit without even glancing my way.
The stranger watched him go with hooded, hawklike eyes before looking down at me again. “You okay?”
“Yes.” But I was struggling to catch my breath.
“Can I bring you two another round?” the bartender asked.
The stranger looked at me. “Would you like another drink?”
I took a breath, willing myself to be brave. “Only if you’ll stay and have one with me.”
He hesitated, rubbing one hand along his jaw. “Okay. Sure.”
“Another martini for the lady and a Glenlivet on the rocks, coming right up,” said the bartender.
I perched on my barstool again, crossing my legs. “Thanks for coming to my rescue.”
“You’re welcome.” He sat down next to me. “I hope I didn’t insult you.”
“Insult me?”
“I didn’t mean to imply you couldn’t handle that jackass on your own.”
“Oh! Well, maybe I could have.” I laughed a little. “But I liked your way better.”
One side of his mouth twitched, setting off a thousand butterflies in my stomach.
“This round is on me,” I said as our drinks appeared.
He shook his head. “Not a chance.”
“But I’d like to repay you for standing up for me.”
“No payment necessary. Any gentleman would have done it.”
“Gentleman, huh?” I tilted my head and gave him a playful smile. I was a pretty good flirt when I wanted to be. “So you’re saying I’m safe with you?”
He didn’t answer right away, and I sat up a little taller in my seat. Slightly arched my back. But his eyes stayed put on mine. “You’re safe with me.”
About Melanie Harlow USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like Ted, Lasso, Schitt’s Creek, and Fleabag. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.
Melanie is the author of the BELLAMY CREEK series, the CLOVERLEIGH FARMS series, the ONE & ONLY series, AFTER WE FALL series, the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, and the FRENCHED series. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.
Join us for the cover reveal of This Pucking Ship, the next book in the Love at Sea Series. Keep reading for more details about this sexy, sports romance.
What started as a one-night stand has become an entire week stuck at sea. Can these two unlikely lovers figure things out or will one of them jump off this pucking ship?
Maureen
Taking a job working in the gym on a cruise ship seemed like a good plan, especially after being dumped and fired from my last job, thanks to my cheating ex.
What I wasn’t counting on was running into the hockey superstar I had a one-night stand with.
Now I’m stuck trying to avoid the chemistry between us despite his relentless pursuit before I find myself put out to sea.
I just need to survive this cruise with my head down and avoid the drama.
Dylan
Being a guest on a lover’s cruise wasn’t my idea of a dream vacation.
But running into the woman I can’t get out of my head? Now, that’s a dream come true.
I swore I wasn’t interested in a relationship, but the sparks between us make it hard for me to resist. Except she’s more worried about protecting her job aboard the ship than me.
Maybe it’s for the best if we go our separate ways especially once we’re off this pucking ship.
But back on land a unique opportunity to help Maureen secure her dream job presents itself. I’ll stop at nothing to make it happen because as much as she needs this job, I need her and this position will give us both what we want.
This Pucking Ship is a sports romance with a slightly forbidden twist, part of the Love at Sea multi-author series. Get ready to set sail through the Caribbean on Festival Cruises’ most alluring voyage with eight of your favorite authors – happily ever after guaranteed!
Experience everything the Love at Sea series has to offer. From speed dating to masquerades, guests are sure to enjoy the hot days and steamy nights. Explore hidden waterfalls, swim with dolphins, and watch as eight couples find their forever on the open ocean.
A.M. Williams is just a simple girl from the south that found herself living in Germany for six years, and now in Florida. When she’s not annoying her cat or reading, she’s spending time with her husband and planning trips to the beach, which is now only an hour away. She’s a total beach bum and would spend every day there if she could. She loves Cheerwine, sweet tea, and North Carolina (eastern style) BBQ as well as crisp, German white wine at any time of day.
Get ready to set sail through the Caribbean on Festival Cruises’ most alluring voyage with eight of your favorite authors – happily ever after guaranteed!
Experience everything the Love at Sea series has to offer. From speed dating to masquerades, guests are sure to enjoy the hot days and steamy nights. Explore hidden waterfalls, swim with dolphins, and watch as eight couples find their forever on the open ocean.
Each story features a brand new couple and a fun trope from our amazing line up of authors including: Kate Stacy, HM Thomas, Mari Sol, S.A. Clayton, T.L. Anderson, Karigan Hale, Susan Renee, and A.M. Williams.
This promotional event is brought to you by TheIndie Pen PR
You’ve heard the story about the wedding planner who falls for the groom? Well, this is the one where she falls for his father. And that groom? He’s my ex.
TEMPT, an all-new scorching hot age gap, forbidden, small town romance, featuring a plus-sized heroine and her ex’s irresistible dad from USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow, is now available!
I didn’t realize who the gruff, gorgeous older man was the night he rescued me from a creep in a Manhattan hotel bar. All I knew was that a hot, bearded stranger with a protective streak showed up right when I needed a reminder that real gentlemen still exist.
(Although he left his manners behind after asking me up to his room.)
It was the hottest night of my life, but I never thought I’d see the former Navy SEAL again.
Imagine my surprise at the rehearsal dinner one week later, when my sexy one-night stand is introduced as the father of the groom. Even more surprising? That temptation we felt in New York was no fluke.
In public, we pretend there’s nothing between us.
In private, we can’t keep our hands off each other.
The situation is beyond complicated. Zach never even knew he’d fathered a child until recently, and he wants to earn his son’s trust and respect. As for me, I’m looking for a man who wants to start a family, and Zach has made it clear he’s not that man. He’s fifteen years older, newly divorced, and he lives across the country.
But no matter how many times we draw the line, we keep crossing it.
About Melanie Harlow USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like Ted, Lasso, Schitt’s Creek, and Fleabag. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.
Melanie is the author of the BELLAMY CREEK series, the CLOVERLEIGH FARMS series, the ONE & ONLY series, AFTER WE FALL series, the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, and the FRENCHED series. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.
A sexy, dirty talking alpha. The beautiful, sweet, and fiery Bella. Her boss. A contract that forces him to marry. An arrangement that will change them forever. Meet Tyler Hawk…
Tyler Hawk is a man with secrets and a dark past. A man who has known tragedy and betrayal. He wants for little, but what he wants is more power, a legacy that is his own, and not his father’s. There are obstacles in his way, one of which is the scandal his father left behind and a will with certain demands.
Behind the scenes he is a man on edge, and only one woman sees the truth hidden beneath his strong will and dominant rule. Bella is somehow demanding and submissive, fiery and yet sweet. She can give him everything he wants, she just doesn’t know it, not yet, but she will. If she’ll just say yes and sign on the dotted line.
“You’re going to have to share your room with me, sweetheart,” he says, and he doesn’t allow me time to object or even savor that endearment, not that objection is on my mind. I’m thinking of nothing but his mouth and hands on my body and this time, mine on his.
He opens the door and enters the room, maneuvering me along with him. The door slams shut behind us, and he’s already kissing me again. This time when his fingers find my hair, he gives the long strands an erotic tug and drags my gaze to his. “Control in all things, Bella. It’s who I am. It’s what I need, not a want.”
“And as you remember,” I say, my fingers curling on his chest, “I don’t like what I can’t control, which I guess actually means I like control, too.”
“And you have it with me,” he promises. “Always. All you have to say is no, and we find what feels like a yes to you. You asked if I trust you. I’m asking you now, if you trust me.”
I consider the complexity of the question. Do I trust him to listen when I say no? Yes. Do I trust him not to break my heart? I’m pretty sure that’s signed, sealed, and delivered, so, no. Do I trust him to make tonight all about pleasure? The kind of pleasure I’ll remember long after he is married off to his future fiancée. Yes. That’s a brutal yes because of where this is headed, which is nowhere but right here, right now, but one I can’t walk away from, either. “Yes,” I say. “I trust you.”
“I don’t think you do, Bella,” he murmurs, and the way he uses my name—it’s as if he wants me to know I’m not just sex to him. Or maybe I just want to believe that—even need to believe that—to be here with him, to be this intimate with him. Because I’m still me. I’m still not the “sex is sex” kind of girl, even if he aspires to change that in me. “But I want you to trust me so damn badly it’s insane,” he adds roughly, an edge of frustration in him, as if this statement somehow contradicts the control he so values.
It shakes me just how much I’m pleased that I’ve tormented him in some way, as if it’s selfish of me. I know this, but Lord also knows I’m tormented over this marriage agreement he’s obviously accepted. And if I think too hard about it, I will run. I will leave.
I don’t want to leave.
I press to my toes, desperate for his mouth and body, for that oblivion he’s shown me once that I crave once again.
His grip tightens gently round my hair, the act both arousing and brutal, as he denies me his mouth. “I’m going to make you trust me, Bella,” he declares, and then, thank you Lord, his mouth slants over my mouth, his tongue caressing my tongue. And it’s a toe-curling, deep, drugging kiss that leaves me breathless when his lips part mine. “Undress, baby,” he orders. “I want to watch.”
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones writes dark, edgy fiction including the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series and the upcoming, crime thriller The Poet. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland and Bad Mom’s) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned a multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women’s Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine. She lives in Colorado with her husband, a cat that talks too much, and a Golden Retriever who is afraid of trash bags.
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