Mardi Gras Magic

Weekenders Romance Watch

A single day could mean the start of something new. . .

Author: Mickie Sherwood
Genre: AA Romance Novella
Price: $0.99 New Release/$0.00 Kindle Unlimited
Buy: Amazon 

Blurb:
Stood Up – What do you do when you’re jilted by your fiancé?
Stand Up – How supportive are you of your best friend’s treachery?
Step Up – When is it time to move forward?

Sienna Gaudet’s determined not to let her ex ruin a good time.
Kirk Ratcliff secretly yearns for a chance with his best friend’s ex.

Why would either succeed?

Mardi Gras Magic

Enchanting Excerpt:
Crowds jammed the streets of the French Quarter. Sienna looked over the jubilant masses from her balcony. Capturing the early morning excitement digitally wasn’t the same as a live-eye view, but the videos would open up a never seen world to some who visited her online magazine. She smiled as she swung to re-enter her suite, stopping short at the feeling of being watched.

Unconsciously, she pulled the silky robe tighter around her curvy figure.

“Of course, everyone’s watching everyone else. Why should I be exempt?”

Still, she couldn’t shake the sensation. Using the zoom lens allowed her to search toward the unnerving vibe. She panned the camera slowly, suddenly reversing for a doubletake. Sienna zoomed in. “Oh, jeez.”

There he stood. Down the way and across the street on an adjacent balcony. Coffee mug in hand, half-lathered face, and a snowy towel draped over his shoulder. “Just what I need.” She snapped a shot anyway.

Sienna lowered her camera. The idea he remained focused on her with no evidence of remorse irked her. He took a drink. Then, he had the nerve to salute with his cup. A salute he cut short at the appearance of the pretty young thing at his side.

“Hmph.” She dismissed him by simply going into the room.

How does Sienna Gaudet extinguish an old flame?

With Kirk Ratcliff, her new spark!

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MickieSherwood
Blog: https://www.mickiesherwood.com/blog
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/MickieSherwood
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/Louisiana_Lady

99Cents Halloween Special - Azure Blackstone Holidays Series

Weekenders Romance Watch

It's a cold, dark Halloween night in New Orleans.

Will Frank get a trick or a treat?

Sweet Treat Reads

Author: Mickie Sherwood
Genre: AA Romance
Price: $0.99 Special - Limited Time Offer
Buy: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Azure Blackstone Holidays Series is a compilation of three sweet romance short reads.

Set in New Orleans, the stories follow the whirlwind romance between carjacking survivor Azure Blackstone and rescuer Frank Hickman over Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

Halloween - Book One - Azure Apparition (The Meet)
It's a cold, dark Halloween night in New Orleans. Will Frank get a trick or a treat?

Thanksgiving - Book Two - Azure's Premonition - (The Date)
Winter's in the air. But the chill Azure feels isn't from the weather.

Christmas - Book Three - Azure & Frank (The Gift of Love)
Will Frank's gift of love be enough to save Azure's Christmas spirit...and their romance?

Halloween - Book One - Azure Apparition (The Meet)

Blurb:
Hardnosed construction worker, Frank Hickman, has got to be hallucinating. Is the shimmering beauty in bed beside him a figment of his imagination? Or some warped Halloween prank pulled on him by his boys?

Azure Blackstone has been carjacked. Will Frank's realization come too late to save her?

Enchanting Excerpt:
He slept for what seemed like hours before his system hauled him out of bed. It was just as expected when he raised his head from the commode. Why a man in his forties put himself through the punishment to fit in was beyond him. He knew his stomach would be roiling for days.

Frank stepped over to the sink to revive himself with a splash of cool water. Brushing and gargling got rid of the sour taste in his mouth. The water was so refreshing he lingered until he felt good enough to stumble back to bed. His rugged brown features reflected green around the gills when he looked in the mirror. Beyond that sight, he saw a glow from the bedroom behind him.

Knuckling his eyes didn't clear his vision.

Whirling around, he thought he was mistaken, for everything looked all right now. However, another look in the mirror had him doubting his eyes, again. The aura magnified until the entire room behind him glowed red. This confirmed for Frank that he had overdone it. He decided the best way to dissolve his drunken stupor was to enter the room on the attack.

What confronted him stopped him dead in his tracks.

Will Frank get a trick or a treat?

Twitter: www.twitter.com/MickieSherwood
Blog: www.mickiesherwood.com/blog
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/MickieSherwood
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/Louisiana_Lady

 

Sweet Caroline

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Becky Lower
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
Caroline Stuart never returned to Lobster Cove after an embarrassing summer night when she was fifteen. But her cousin’s marriage was an event she couldn’t miss. Imagine her surprise when she discovers her partner in the bridal party is Grant Jackson, the same boy who humiliated her years ago. She still hates him. Yet, he still excites her.

Grant had more than the usual problems fitting in as a teenager, being the only boy of mixed heritage in the school. And he’d somehow alienated the one girl he desperately wanted to impress. With Caroline’s return to Lobster Cove, he finally has an opportunity to make amends, if only she’ll listen. If only she’ll let go of the past.

Enchanting Excerpt:
Abbey laughed as the other two bridesmaids stood at the window, giggling. “Come take a look at the groomsmen.” She hustled Caroline to the window.

Four men stood outside, handsome in their dark gray, three-piece suits.

“No tuxedos?” Caroline craned her neck to see the men.

“As Penny said, nothing conventional here today.” Abbey pointed to one of the men. “Allow me to point out my Charlie, the one with the light brown hair.”

“And whose fine backside am I staring at?” Caroline gestured to the man facing away and leaning over to straighten his pants leg.

“I’m glad you approve. That’s your groomsman.” Abbey laughed.

At that precise moment, the man straightened and glanced at the window.

Mocha skin, piercing, unexpected blue eyes, and curly black hair. Caroline caught her breath and put a hand on her suddenly nervous stomach. “Grant? Please tell me he’s not Grant.”

“I’m surprised you even remember him, Caro.” Abbey glanced at Caroline with widening eyes and gave her a playful swat on the arm. “Del picked his groomsmen, and Grant was the only one tall enough to pair with you. I hope you don’t mind.”

Caroline pivoted away from the window, her mind buzzing and her panic rising as she recalled the last time she’d seen Grant. “Yes, I do mind, but we’re too late to change things around. For Penny and Del’s sake, I’ll be cordial. But once today is over I hope never to see him again.”

Website: http://www.beckylowerauthor.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/becky.lower
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BeckyLower1

 

Custom Fit

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Lexi Miles
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon
 

Blurb:
Sunni is one of the most sought after style consultants and is put off when her boss calls her into her office, as if Sunni’s a newbie, and gives her an emergency assignment.  Sunni’s protest comes to a halt when she realizes that she got the assignment of a lifetime: dressing the ultra-sexy singer/actor Striker Clint.  The only rule, to avoid termination, no romantic involvement with clients.  But Striker is not just any client, Sunni has had it bad for him since she laid eyes on him in one of his earlier films.  Are some rules made to be broken?

Enchanting Excerpt:
After she received clearance, having been searched and her phone scanned for live feeds, Sunni had been allowed to finally work.  Sunni sprung into professional mode.  With quick confident strides she made her way over to Striker and the team of people that buzzed around him.  Most people would look for a manager or handler to handle the introductions, but that was not Sunni’s style.  She was direct.  She always felt that it was warmer to meet her client personally, and then to handle the other details afterward.

She extended her hand, and chirped spunkily as he took it, “Hi, I will be handling all of your needs over the holidays.

A sizzling grin twisted to life on Striker’s face, she melted, as he returned, “Is that right?  All of my needs.”

She blushed, her mind wanted to go flirtatious and even sexual so very badly, but she kept it on task.

She warmly returned, “Well not all of your needs.  I am just going to be taking your clothes on and off.”  Instantly she snapped her mouth closed.

Oh, crap.  She thought inside.  This was about to go off the tracks if she did not buckle down.  It was time to regroup. 

Sure, in all fairness, she had fantasized about him from a far and had thought about saying many wildly suggestive things to him, but this was not the time nor the place.  And another huge fact—one that mattered big time—she was a professional.  She told herself to get it together.  She nodded.  Although the redness of embarrassment was now burning to the surface of her skin, she was again ready to speak.

“I am guessing.  You know that I meant I was your style consultant.”

“Yes,” he chuckled, so sexily it was criminal.


Website: www.leximilesauthor.com
Amazon Author
Page: https://www.amazon.com/Lexi-Miles/e/B0196OSLBU
Twitter: www.twitter.com/leximilesbooks

The Lady Is a Mayor

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Fran Thomas
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
Protesters, clashing viewpoints, economic crisis. No, not the presidential campaign. Here's a lighter look at political goings on in a sort-of fictional small town. When the mayor of Calusa flees town in the middle of the night, Geneva Price finds herself in charge and trying to hold it all together. Seth Connor, a swoon-worthy hotel developer (with good hair), might be the answer to her prayers, in more ways than one. But first she has to arrange a truce between the ecologists and the economists. Just a typical day in Florida.


Enchanting Excerpt:
Geneva rose and beckoned to Seth.

“We have a special guest this morning. I’d like to introduce Seth Connor who has an exciting idea to tell us about.”

Seth’s hazel eyes scanned the room until the latest round of whispers had subsided.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” he began. “How would you like to see a stylish new hotel in Calusa?”

General pandemonium struck.

“We don’t need a new hotel.”

“That would give my grandkids a place to stay besides with me when they come to visit.”

“You’ll destroy the peace and quiet.”

“It’s too peaceful here anyway.”

“Now we’ll never get the bike path finished.”

Geneva searched the table for something to bang to regain control. Patsy passed a gavel over her shoulder. “Here, try this.”

Geneva tapped softly at first, then with increasing vigor until people took notice and their seats once more. Meanwhile, Seth looked mystified at the outburst.

“Let’s hear the man out before we start to debate,” Geneva said, briskly nodding to Seth to continue.

“My company, Connor Development, plans to build a five story hotel of more than one hundred thousand square feet.”

Additional pandemonium ensued only slightly less vociferous than before.

“Where do you plan to put a building that size, young feller?”

“This town is no place for a blasted skyscraper.”

“Civilization was bound to catch up with us sooner or later.”

“All those tourists’ll bring a lot of cash to town.”

“All those tourists’ll need recreation like a bike path’d give ‘em.”

Geneva banged her gavel again. By the time Seth finished his presentation fifteen minutes later, he’d been interrupted two more times. After he gathered his papers and sat down, Geneva looked at her fellow council members.

“Anything else we need to discuss this morning?”

“I’m all discussed out,” Lou said. “I move we adjourn until nine tomorrow morning for a closed session to review Seth’s proposal.”

“I second,” Doc said.

“Meeting adjourned,” Geneva said with one last tap of her gavel.


Blog: http://www.FrancesOThomas.com
Blog: http://www.RusticatingintheTropics.com
 

My Zombie Boyfriend

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: T. Strange
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Torquerebooks

Blurb:
Edward Grey is a medical student by day, necromancer by night. He lives alone with the first zombie he ever raised, his childhood cat, Boo. Edward’s life is simple: studying medicine, training his necromantic powers with his mentor, Mariel, and having weekly dinners with his parents. When he finds a very attractive corpse in a park and brings it home to reanimate, he accidentally creates a sassy, free-willed zombie who believes Edward is the one who murdered him.

Enchanting Excerpt:
“Kit, have you thought about going to a hairdresser just to have your hair washed?” I wasn’t sure if a hairdresser would do that, but it seemed like something that would appeal to him.

His eyes gleamed covetously. “What a great idea! We can go together. Which salon do you go to? I’ll book us an appointment right away.”

At least he was trying to include me. With a sense of impending doom, I told him the truth. “I don’t go to a salon. I cut my hair myself. I have one of those clippers…” I trailed off, watching his horrified expression. It was as though I had told him I sometimes ate kittens with Tabasco sauce.

“Not anymore,” he told me, his tone firm and final. “I’ll just make us appointments, shall I?”

“Okay,” I said, meekly. My mom is always telling me I’m too passive. I always agree with her, which I suppose sort of proves her point. My father is the same way with her. She has a very forceful personality, not unlike Kit, and I don’t want to hear anything about Freud.

***

My haircut was spectacularly uneventful and left me looking exactly the way I did when I cut it myself, only smelling strange and sixty dollars poorer. I had spent less than that buying my clippers, which promised to give me years of haircuts.

I didn’t let the hairdresser style my hair. I didn’t want Kit to get any expectations about my appearance.

Kit, of course, was another matter entirely. Every hairdresser in the shop came over to admire and fondle his hair. None of them seemed to find it odd that he only wanted a rinse. Especially because Kit was being charged sixty dollars for the privilege of having strangers wash his hair.

Blog: http://tqstrange.blogspot.ca
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TqStrange
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTStrange/

Red Tulip

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Victoria Adams
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

A contemporary romance with a little twist of mystery.

 

Blurb: 
Darcy O'Calahann, a junior gardener from a small mid-western town, is trying to make her way in the big city.

Shamus McRae is a wealthy bachelor with a mysterious family past.

Are Darcy's eyes playing tricks on her? Is she losing her mind? Or is there really a Red Tulip tying her and Shamus together?

Enchanting Excerpt:

"When was the last time you were offered the gift of a red tulip?"

I turned to see who spoke while I wondered if he was addressing me. A man sat on a park bench, dressed in a dark suit, with a bowler hat, holding a cane and his head bowed. I shifted to continue along the path when his face lifted and I found myself gaping at two glowing green eyes.

"When was the last time you were offered the gift of a red tulip?"

I blinked, trying to look away from those mesmerising orbs. "Uh, never. I mean, no one has ever offered me a tulip."

"A red tulip."

"Okay, no one has ever offered me a red tulip." Uneasiness slithered through me. "Nice chatting with you."

Smiling, I scurried down the path leading away from the park bench and towards the gardener's shed. With Jacobs being sick today, I had to hurry to get the last of the flower beds cleaned and prepared for spring plantings. The past winter had been bitter. It seemed tree branches and mouse damage wreaked havoc on every one of the one hundred and sixteen different flowerbeds.

I slipped my key into the lock, opened the shed door, stepped inside and shut it behind me. Closing my eyes, I allowed myself a moment to indulge in the beauty of his eyes. Emerald green. As brilliant as the gems locked among the diamonds at Tiffany's. Not that I shop there. Couldn't possibly afford anything on a junior gardener's salary, but I do fantasize when wandering the aisles.

What would it be like to be with a man like that? For those few moments in his presence, I was unable to think. My breath caught in my lungs. My palms were slick with beads of sweat. I shook my head, opened my eyes, and tugged the ever-present hair tie off my wrist. "Get over yourself, Darcy. A man like that wants a super model who can slink around on eight-inch heels. Not someone who digs in the dirt all day."

Blog: http://victoriaadams.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/victoriaadams.romancewriter
Facebook Book page: http://www.facebook.com/CirclesTrilogy?ref=hl
Twitter: http://twitter.com/_VictoriaAdams

A Romance for Christmas

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Kayelle Allen
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


 
Blurb:
A sweet feel good holiday romance showcasing love, loss, and the spirit of giving.

It's Christmas Eve, and the end of a year in which everything Dara loves has been lost. Everything but her little girl and a fierce determination to survive. When a cop brings Christmas to her door, he brings another gift she never expected to get.

 
Enchanting Excerpt:
"Mommy?" Christine's young voice broke in on her thoughts.

Dara put down the romance she'd been re-reading, the favorite she'd had since she was sixteen. She'd sold all her others at a yard sale the previous week. "What is it, sweetie?"

"Why don't we has a real tree for Chribmas?"

"Why don't we 'have'," she corrected. "Come sit by me." Dara patted the couch and tucked her chenille robe closer around her.

One arm around Matilda, her cloth doll, Christine climbed up and cuddled.
Matilda's going to need stuffing before long. Her head flopped forward, face against her flat chest. When did the lace on her dress get so ragged? Dara smoothed the doll's dress. "Remember when Daddy went home to heaven before Christmas last year?"

Christine knuckled her eyes and yawned. "I 'member."

"And then Mommy got hurt in the car accident and couldn't go to work?"

"Uh huh."

Dara took a deep breath. "Well, it meant there was no money for a real tree this year. But I'm sure Santa will still bring you presents." Gifts Dara bought by selling her entire collection of romance novels at a yard sale at her friend Sherilyn's house. "And we drew a tree, right?" She pointed at the crayon-bright drawing taped to the wall. Construction paper ornaments decorated each branch.

"But it doesn't smell like a Chribmas tree."

Dara hugged her. "I know, baby. I know."

"How will Santa leave his presents?" Christine pulled away and got on her knees. "He can't put them under the tree, Mommy."

"Oh, honey!" She ruffled her daughter's hair, swallowing the lump in her throat. "Santa will find a way." She leaned forward and kissed her little girl. "We should get you in bed so he can come. He can't leave presents while you're awake."


Blog: https://kayelleallen.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kayelleallen
Facebook: https://facebook.com/kayelleallen.author
 

Planting the Seeds of Love

Weekenders Romance Watch

A Novella

Author: N.N. Light
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon
 


Blurb:
Torn between two men, Sally must follow her heart and decide if love will lead her to the city or the countryside.

Sally Rayton returns to the family farm to settle her grandfather's estate and return to her life in the city with her boyfriend, Trevor Mattson.

Her childhood friend, Jack, convinces her to transform the farm into a brewery. Sally works side-by-side with Jack while Trevor is hundreds of miles away in the city. The more time she spends with Jack, the stronger her feelings are for him.

When Trevor shows up to propose to Sally right before Christmas and finds her in Jack's embrace, she must make the biggest choice of her life: true love.



Enchanting Excerpt:
Jack looked where she pointed.

"Sally..." he began.

"Yes?"

"Are you planning on selling it when the farm's made a profit?"

Sally sighed.

He turned her body around, his gaze penetrating hers.

"I don't know," she whispered. "I know Grandpa wanted me to keep it in the family." She furrowed her brow. "I'm not a country girl; my heart belongs to the city."

"Hey, it's okay." He moved a step closer. "Farming is hard work and you have to love it to make it successful." He put a hand on her shoulder. "Don't beat yourself up for following your heart."

Sally winced.

"What?"

"Jack, I'm not sure what my heart wants. Part of me loves being here, carrying on the family name."

"But..." Jack raised an eyebrow warily.

"But I have a life in the city. I've almost finished my degree --"

"You have Trevor," Jack interrupted her. He shook his head.

"What's wrong with that? Yes, I have a life and a boyfriend in the city. I've told you a thousand times my dream is to open my own sidewalk cafe." She folded her arms over her chest. "Don't you want me to be happy, Jack?" Her voice sounded hurt, even to her own ears.

He closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead.

"This isn't going how I wanted it to." He glanced up at her. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to imply anything. It's just --"

"What?" Sally cocked her head to one side.

The telephone rang inside.

"Sh**, I have to go answer it. I'll be right back." She ran into the house.

"Hello?"

"Hi beautiful." Trevor.


Blog: http://princessofthelight.wordpress.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/nnlight
Independent Author Network: http://www.independentauthornetwork.com/n-n-light.html

Sympathy Dance

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Sue McConnell
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
Can Wyatt prove himself and win the girl of his dreams? A tender western romance proving that the course of love never runs smoothly.


Enchanting Excerpt:
"You could have said no." Cheyanne looked up at him with a pout on her pretty coral lips.

He looked down at her but quickly diverted his eyes when he couldn't ignore her cleavage peeking out of her silk top. He had never noticed how busty she was before. He swallowed hard and prayed she couldn't hear his heart pound.

She blinked her long lashes and he nearly groaned. These feelings weren't supposed to be happening. He had only agreed to come with Cheyanne because her big brother had laid it on thick begging Wyatt to take her to the dance. She had just returned home before the holidays and didn't have a date to the Red Reef annual New Year's Eve dance. Jess wanted to enjoy it with his bombshell girlfriend but if Cheyanne didn't have a date, his mother would have hounded Jess to take Cheyanne until his father grew sick of it and demanded the same. So Wyatt in a weak moment had agreed.

"I could have stayed home with Windswept." Cheyanne swept a wispy curl from her eyes.

Her hair smelled like vanilla and was pulled into a loose bun that let tendrils of curls frame her face making her big dark chocolate eyes pop. "Your horse? Am I that bad of a date that you'd rather be home with your horse?" He covered his heart. "I'm hurt."

She grinned. "There's the Wyatt I know and love. For a minute there I thought I was going to have to carry the whole night."

"Sorry." Was she wishing she hadn't come? "You could have said no."


Website: http://suemcconnell.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SueMcConnellauthor
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/sue44mc/ 

 

Templet's Tasty Tails

Weekenders Romance Watch

My brand new release is available now!

 

Author: Mickie Sherwood
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
Web Designer Erika Washington's contract with her childhood best friend covers all possibilities about her pregnancy. But, one unpredictable event redirects her future. As a donor-surrogate, what does one do when fate changes the plan and claims the lives of the intended parents? If you're selfless, strong-willed Erika Washington, you mount a defense to keep your baby.

Entrepreneur Booker Templet, owner of Templet's Tasty Tails, secretly agrees to help his first cousin. However, unfortunate circumstances change the course of his life. After he learns the identity of the other donor, Booker plans to be a part of his child's life. No matter what.

Will Erika and Booker battle over custody of the baby? Will their horrible loss help them find consolation in each other's arms? Or will fate intervene yet again?


Enchanting Excerpt:
"Listen to me." He caught up to her in the back yard. "Maybe I have no right to feel this way. But I feel like a lion, ferocious and protective of you."

She paced under the moss-draped shade tree. On her turnaround, Booker caressed her shoulders. When she refused to look at him, he used his thumb to lift her chin.

"You have wheedled your way into my blood, Erika." He touched his forehead to hers. "All without your knowledge."

"We've been through this, Booker." Erika resisted the pull of his male magnetism. "To you, I'm the means to an end. You want this baby."

"I do. I've already admitted that. What I've begun to dream is"—he palmed her cheeks—"you'll let me work on making this a package deal."

"That's insulting." Erika clamped her mouth shut.

Booker closed in as he made what she defined as lust to her with his eyes. The kiss started up from her chin. The moment he touched his lips to hers, incredible images sprang into Erika's mind. A blazing fire erupted within.

"We're in public." She moaned against his mouth.

"There should be no mistaking my intentions, Erika." Booker breathed the words. "I'm so into you. No pun intended."

Check out the "make believe" cast of Templet's Tasty Tails on my Pinterest board. What do you think?

Website: http://www.mickiesherwood.com/blog/posts
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/MickieSherwood
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/Louisiana_Lady
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mickiesherwood/templets-tasty-tails-storyboard/

Playing with Fire

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Nan O'Berry
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
Sometimes a man can get burnt playing with fire. Patrick Sullivan can't get enough of newcomer Mitzi Stancil after her kitchen catches fire and he comes to her rescue. A onetime Broadway gypsy, Mitzi has returned, just like Dorothy Gayle, to find home.

When the musical director of the Founder's Day pageant is called out of town, Mayor Moore recruits Mitzi to 'save the play'. But will her budding romance go up in flames when Ezra Brooks makes a play for her? Can the town bring these two lovers back together when a misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart?


Enchanting Excerpt:
Mitzi could only nod. She knew if he stayed much longer their caresses might lead to more and, despite her feelings, she wasn't sure either of them were ready for such a commitment so soon. "You want to take this pizza back to the firehouse? I've got no refrigeration."

"Sure," he replied, his voice a bit stronger. "You keep the wine in the O'Neil's fridge. I don't think I should take that to the station."

"Okay."

They cleaned up their mess, depositing the remains of the plates in the trash. Mitzi waited while he closed the doors and cut off the light. She walked him to his truck.

"Mitzi?"

"Yes?"

"There's something going on between us, isn't there?"

She nodded. "Yes, there is, Sully."

"Would it be too much for me to ask you not to see anyone else until we figure it out?"

"No," she smiled. "I had already decided that on my own. You see, Sully, I'm a one guy type of woman. I figure it's the same for you, or, at least, I hope it is."

"It is." He took hold of her arms and pulled her into his embrace. Then, placing a finger beneath her chin, he turned her gaze to meet his. "I can't put a name to it yet, Mitzi Stancil, but I want to see more of you. Being away from you until Saturday may just kill me."

"Then I'll have stop by or wave in passing," she whispered as he kissed her one last time before getting into the cab of his truck.
Mitzi's heart twisted as he backed away. The one thing that kept her from running after him was the knowledge Saturday wasn't that far away.


Website: http://oberrynan.wix.com/nanoberryauthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nan.oberry.3
Blog: http://obe-romancingtheblog.blogspot.com/

A Dose of Danger

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Kim McMahill
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
When researcher Grace Talbot and her team discover a possible solution for weight loss they become targets of a group dedicated to controlling the multi-billion dollar a year diet-product industry. Her unsanctioned testing methods bring tragedy to the family ranch, and the attention of the local sheriff's deputy. With her colleagues either dead, missing, or on the run she soon realizes she must trust the deputy with her life, but can she trust him with her heart?



Enchanting Excerpt:
"You already have more than a full-time career. This situation will most likely be long-term, so I need to get into a rhythm with the chores and my job, and not get too dependent upon your kindness and nice muscles," she added with a shy smile.

"So you like my muscles?"

"Don't let it go to your head, Deputy. Remember I work with a bunch of researchers, PhDs, and marketing executives."

He laughed as he turned and walked out the door.

Grace stood on the porch and watched until the truck's taillights disappeared over the rise.

Just my luck, I may have met "Mr. Right," and the timing couldn't be more wrong.


Website: http://KimMcMahill.com
Blog: http://KimMcMahill.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimmcmahill

Heat Lightning and the Summer Fire Box Set

Weekenders Romance Watch

It's my pleasure to present BlurbsinBloom's first Guest Post. Join me in welcoming author Joan Reeves.

Author: Joan Reeves

Genre: Mainstream Romance

Buy: http://amzn.to/1Dv2jy3

Earlier this year, I was invited to be one of the authors for a Contemporary Romance Box Set called Summer Fire. I was a lot little concerned about the company I would be keeping in this box set because the names I saw first--NYTimes and USAToday bestselling authors--were noted for their scorching-hot romance novels.

Gulp. That’s not me. Sure, I write some sexy stuff, but nothing like those ladies. I signed on anyway because all of the 20 other authors are really nice women, and they’re consummate professionals who know how to tell riveting stories. I’m glad I did this because I think everyone needs to step outside the old comfort zone occasionally. After all, growth can’t occur inside the narrow dimensions of a comfort zone.

Happy Ending

To my delight, the end result is a contemporary romance collection ranging from sweet romance to the aforesaid steamy stories. Summer Fire has sweet, suspenseful, sexy, funny, steamy, and everything in between! There truly is something for every reader at the amazingly low price of only 99cents. You may just find a new author you’ll love--or maybe even a new genre.

My entry in the Summer Fire Romance Collection?

Heat Lightning, Romantic Suspense

Her husband found her, claimed her, rescued her. Desire flashes like heat lightning on a summer night between David and Tessa. She knows his touch, but when she looks at him, he is a stranger to her. Not a flicker of memory is left of him or their life together. Everything and everyone she knew is lost to her since she awakened from a coma. All she has left are questions. Who is she? Why does David seem to hate her even as he pulls her into his arms? What is he hiding? How can she trust him when her gut says, “Trust no one”?

Excerpt from Heat Lightning

Holding Back

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Helen Pollard
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

 
Blurb:
Laura Matheson is a natural at avoiding romance, so when she's drawn to mystery guest Daniel Stone while helping out at her friends' hotel in Portugal, she assumes all she needs is a little extra willpower.

Daniel is at the hotel on business. The demands of work and a manipulative ex-girlfriend mean he doesn't have the time or energy for romance, but Laura is a distraction he finds hard to ignore.

As they negotiate a minefield of misunderstandings and mutual attraction, will they both continue to hold back? Or will they finally allow love into their lives?



Enchanting Excerpt:
Laura's mind raced as her footsteps slowed. What on earth was he doing here? The unlikely hope he might be passing by—perhaps he'd called in for directions to somewhere else?—was immediately scotched as he lifted his luggage from the car. Reminded of their encounters at the airport, she could have squirmed with embarrassment at how out of character she'd acted, making mistakes and being so snappy about them.

Well, he wouldn't see her like that again. If Daniel Stone was a guest here—and it seemed there was no escaping from it—then she must make him welcome. For goodness' sake, she was used to dealing with awkward situations every day at school!

He turned at the sound of her footsteps. Forcing a calmness into her voice that didn't extend to her stomach, she stepped forward and held out her hand.

"Mr. Stone? Welcome to the Quinta Maria."

Closing the car, he straightened up to his full six-foot-something and reached out to shake hands. For one brief, glorious moment, Laura thought he might not recognise her now that she was spruced up a little, but any hope of that disappeared as his eyes narrowed in sudden recognition and his hand dropped to his side as though it had been burned.

"It seems you have the advantage over me, knowing my name," he said. "Since you're determined to turn up like a bad penny wherever I go, perhaps you could enlighten me with yours?"


Website/Blog: http://helenpollardwrites.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/pages/Helen-Pollard/372986142839624
Twitter: http://twitter.com/helenpollard147

 

Marked In Mexico

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Kim McMahill
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
When hostages are taken at one of Mexico’s most popular Mayan ruins an idyllic Caribbean vacation turns deadly. The kidnappers believe the abduction will be a simple way to negotiate the release of a colleague from a Texas prison, but matters become complicated and the stakes much higher when they realize one of their hostages is the daughter of a powerful U.S. Senator and another is an ex-Army Ranger who has no intention of playing by the rules.



Enchanting Excerpt:
Under any other circumstance the words, “kill another person,” at the end of a sentence would have terrified her, but the way Jack said it only made her heart ache. He had killed before, but it clearly hadn’t been easy and he obviously hadn’t gotten over it.

Jessica took his hands in hers and turned them over. They were large and rough. He’d carried no weapon, so he could have killed the man with his bare hands.

Whenever he touched her, he was so gentle she just couldn’t believe it was possible. He had done nothing but try to protect Megan and her, but there was clearly much more to Jack than he had shared. She wasn’t sure she wanted to know the rest of his story, but felt the need to truly understand his pain.


Website: http://KimMcMahill.com
Blog: http://KimMcMahill.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kimmcmahill


*Blurb originally appeared in 2012 when BlurbsinBloom showcased only blurbs.

Losing Who

Weekenders Romance Watch

Book 3 in the Loving Who series

Author: Cynthianna
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Mojocastle Press



Blurb:
Cici Connors is losing her mind—or is she? Alien time traveler John Smith vows to return her memories, but will his sci-fi con only attract an invasion of Earth by artificially intelligent life forms?
 

Enchanting Excerpt:
(A telepathic conversation between John and Cici, wherein he tries to explain why he had to blank her memories.)


The time lines…They got a bit muddy. We had to undo them and start afresh in order to keep the universe from exploding. You’re sensitive to how the time lines flow, Cici, but you’re not one of us who can step totally out of time and look at them objectively. So, you’ve got to trust me on this point—you know me from before, and I’ve come back for you against the wishes of my own kind.

Some of what he was relating to her mind made sense. Cici had felt these past few days as if she’d been yanked out of time and thrust back into it at another spot against her will. She sensed that the clock had been turned back and that she was reliving the same days again, only this time with a slightly different cast of characters in a completely different situation. You’re risking your own safety to be with me? she wondered.

I am. I’m risking your safety, too. That’s why I wanted to confess as soon as you seemed able to deal with this knowledge. If you want me out of your time line, I’ll go, Cici. But before I go, I wanted you to know that it wasn’t my idea to leave you behind in the first place.

You want to be with me? Cici felt tears burning beneath her eyelids, but she couldn’t find either her eyes or her tissue to wipe them away.
My kind doesn’t know what romance or love means really, but I think I’ve learned more about it since we met. It’s why I came back for you.

Damn… You’ve wrecked my cynicism. She felt the warmth of a sun upon her cheek like a kiss of an angel. Anything is possible, isn’t it, John Smith?

She heard a soft chuckle then, It is when you love someone, Cici Connors. Love makes all things possible.


Website: http://www.cynthianna.com
Blog: http://momsday.blogspot.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cynthianna.CelineChatillon
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/celinechatillon_cynthianna 

False Hope

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Marianne Rice
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
Mason Tucker prefers solitude and the company of his laptop, but when vivacious Emma Fulton begs for his computer expertise in tracking down family secrets, he agrees in order to keep an eye on the feisty brunette, as trouble seems to follow her wherever she goes.


Enchanting Excerpt:
“I thought you and Cole were a thing and I s-s-sabotaged it.”

Realization hit her like an airbag to a face. She touched her cheek and nearly collapsed.

“He told me you two aren’t … that you’re friends and not in a, uh, romantic relationship.”

She moved closer to the couch and glared at him. “Let me get this straight. You thought Cole and I were an item, but you slept with me anyway then pushed me away because you felt guilty, but just found out your brother and I are not an item and are now coming to apologize?”

Ick, when she said it out loud it sounded tacky and terrible, but her heart interpreted it differently. Kind of sweet. Paige must be wearing off on her, romanticizing a twisted love triangle. Still, she wasn’t about to let him off the hook so easily.

“You’ve apologized, so now what?” Lord bless him, but the man looked completely shocked. She bet he hadn’t thought that far.

“I… I don’t know.”

Never one to complicate matters—Emma inwardly rolled her eyes and snorted at herself—she knew she had to make the next move.

“Do you like me?”

“Of course.”

“Do you think I’m pretty?”

Mason raised an eyebrow and stood up. “No.”

She gasped.

“I think you’re beautiful.”

She melted. “Oh.”

“Do you like me?” he asked.

“I did. And then I didn’t. But I think I do now.”

“Oh. Do you think I’m pretty?” he smirked.

“No.” She waited a beat. “I think you’re so damn hot.” They stood toe to toe, waiting for the other person to make the first move.

Kissing shouldn’t have been so anticipating. But it was. And it was well worth the wait.



Website: http://www.mariannerice.weebly.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MarianneRiceaut
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mariannericeaut
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/mariannerice

Life and Love in Vivid Color

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Rhonda Jackson Joseph
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon



Blurb:
Enjoy these colorful characters as they experience life and love, in vivid color. Walk with Rosalind Davis as she realizes love later in life is a relief. Come with Eva Grant while she and Santos help one another heal. Laugh at Melanie Durst pretending her way into everlasting love. Root for Daria and Maurice James as their loving marriage takes a hit from tragedy. Wish for Tisha Randall to get what she wants from Brian, when he comes into her store. Urge Aliyah and Andre to build happy ever after from their childhood friendship. Warm in the sunshine that Jasmine brings for Lemond when she smiles.


Enchanting Excerpt:
Bad idea. Terrible. Rosalind Davis kicked herself inside for attending the speed dating event that called itself "Mature Mingles". She'd had no idea when she'd signed up that "mature" actually meant "looking for a caregiver with benefits or a spouse who would become a caregiver".

She should have known that trying to make a romantic connection at her age would be difficult. Rosalind had only just decided she even wanted companionship and there she was, in a huge mess.

Her lips were exhausted from the effort she had to put into the tight, polite smile. Ring, buzzer. I'm ready to go.

She sighed in relief and closed her eyes. Only one more to go. She should have indicated that she was interested in meeting females, too. That way she might have at least gotten a good tennis partner out of the deal.

"I'm not trying to get married." The words tumbled from her mouth before the last man could take the seat across from her.

He sat down and held her gaze. "That's a relief. I don't usually propose until the first real date."

Rosalind flicked her gaze over the ID tag the man wore.

"Sorry."

"No apology necessary. I'm Darren."

"Rosalind."

"I'm glad this is the last stop tonight." He continued to look directly at her.

She felt the heat rise in her face at his intense gaze. "Me, too."

"I'm glad for your beautiful mouth."

"Excuse me?" Rosalind straightened in her chair and glared. She would get a bold pervert for the last contact of the night.

"I only meant that if you had to paste that little fake smile on one more time, your lips might crack and fall off."

The indignant anger leapt out of her and Rosalind laughed, the first genuine chuckle she'd emitted that evening.

"In that case, thank you. You're right."

He shrugged. "It would be such a shame to lose it. You might need your mouth later on. To eat or laugh or something."

She confirmed his observation with another giggle. He joined in, and she noticed how he laughed from his depths, and his smile completely reached his eyes.

"Nice to meet you, Darren."

"The pleasure is all mine." Darren held his hand across the table and Rosalind grabbed it. He firmly shook and then released her.

A part of her wanted him to hold onto her a bit longer.


Twitter: https://twitter.com/rjacksonjoseph
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rhonda-Jackson-Joseph-WriterEditor/113607275401945
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1077543.Rhonda_Jackson_Joseph

Whispers in the Dark

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Kris Bock
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
Kylie Hafford craves adventure when she heads to the remote Puebloan ruins of Lost Valley, Colorado, to excavate. Romance isn’t in her plans, but she soon meets two sexy men: Danesh looks like a warrior from the Pueblo’s ancient past, and Sean is a charming, playful tourist. The summer heats up as Kylie uncovers mysteries, secrets, and terrors in the night. She’ll need all her strength and wits to survive—and to save the man she’s come to love.

Enchanting Excerpt:
“Don’t you read signs?”

I blinked at the apparition. “Uh....”

He gestured back at the main path. “The signs at every turn saying ‘Stay on the path’? The notice at the entrance telling you to leave artifacts alone? I could have you arrested and fined.”

Oh. I felt color flooding my cheeks. My pounding heart refused to slow yet, and the rush of adrenaline turned my arms and legs to jelly, but I rose steadily enough. I tried to ignore the heat in my face and the queasy feeling of panic in my stomach, which hadn’t yet accepted the message that I wasn’t in danger. “I’m Kylie Hafford,” I said coolly. “The archaeologist. Are you Danesh?”

I saw a satisfying flash of surprise and then guilt. Or maybe I had just imagined it, as his face settled immediately into a neutral mask. “Yes, I’m Danesh.” He hesitated before adding stiffly, “It’s nice to meet you.”

“The pleasure’s all mine.”

He must have caught my irony, because he almost smiled—I think. He said, “I’m sorry I startled you. I wasn’t expecting you yet, and....” He shrugged. “I’ve been noticing scuff marks in the ground, off the trail where tourists aren’t supposed to go. I figured someone was poking around, maybe looking for treasure.”

“And you assumed I was your treasure hunter?”



Website: http://www.krisbock.com/
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/krisbock
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kris-Bock-Author-Page/174350342612332