Bonds of Love

 Weekenders Romance Watch

 

Author:  Mickie Sherwood

Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Buy: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

  Re-Release

Blurb:
Three days. Two secrets. One love?

Senator Jordan Dupré has kept an adoption secret for years. Now a blackmailer issues an ultimatum: pay up or else. Enter Deacon Burke, her old flame. He's the last person she needs to meddle in her affairs and mess with her heart.

In years past, Jordan kissed, loved, lied to, and left Deke. Even so, instructions left by her deceased husband call him to her aid. He goes and his secret tags along.

Will their secrets complicate the reunion or rekindle their bonds of love?

Note: Formerly Cherished Moments
This novel is rewritten, re-edited, re-titled, and re-covered.

Enchanting Excerpt:
A dark shadow blocked the red sunlight on the inside of her lids. She opened her eyes to a blurry silhouette dressed in black, who then reached downward to grip her arm. His grasp was tight but not harmful. When her sight cleared, she focused on the face that caused her blood pressure to rise.

Deke.

Despite years with no contact, her knees still knocked, and her heart ached.

“Jay. Are you okay?”

The rich, mellow voice was music to her ears, one which she really loved to hear. He slid his hand down her arm and gently clutched her hand. His touch added to her jittery stance, and her stomach lurched.
Again, Jordan closed her eyes and emptied her stomach right at his feet. He offered her a folded white handkerchief, holding it under her nose when she opened her eyes. The affable expression on his face soothed her. His spontaneous grin showed his one imperfection—a slanted bottom tooth. However, his smile was one of perfection to her. She recalled his explanation that the dental flaw was a family trait; one he chose to honor.

“Hi, Deke.” Jordan greeted him as though their last conversation had been eighteen minutes ago, instead of eighteen years. For a moment, she no longer felt like the grown-ass woman she was.
 
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

 

A Kitchen Affair

Weekenders Romance Watch

It's my pleasure to re-introduce a novel I showcased back when BlurbsinBloom posted only blurbs. Now, there's an enchanting excerpt for you to enjoy. A Kitchen Affair "has been updated and now includes recipes from each chapter".

Author: Carol Preflatish
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
When culinary student Jenny Marshall struggles to pay her tuition, she decides to become a Personal Chef to make ends meet. When the most eligible bachelor in town, Derek James, has a crisis, he hires Jenny to cook for his party and there's chemistry from the start. Then, a manager at his company sets her sights on Derek and does everything she can to sabotage the relationship. What lengths will she go to in order to keep Derek and Jenny apart?


Enchanting Excerpt:
Derek drove her to the rear of the bakery where her car was parked. He turned the car off and grabbed her hand to keep her from getting out. "Jenny, I desperately want you in my life and I think you want the same thing. Just tell me what to do to make it happen."

She looked away. "It's a matter of building up trust again. You said you cared for me, but you slept with Colleen. It's going to take some time."

She started to open the door, but he squeezed her hand to stop her. "One more question."

"What's that?"

"I'd like for you to be my date for the dinner party."

"I don't know. I had planned on preparing the food for it during the day and then leave. The servers I hired don't need me there to direct them."

"And, that's why you should be my companion for the night. I want everyone to meet you and I want you to get to know my friends."

"I'll think about it." She pulled her hand away and got out of the car.

Derek quickly jumped out too and ran over to her. He took her into his arms and kissed her. He captured her mouth with hungry urgency. She didn't resist, but instead welcomed him into her mouth. His tongue danced with hers until she finally pulled away.

"Not yet, Derek. I can't." She got into her car and drove away leaving him standing there alone.



Blogs: http://CarolPre.webs.com
http://CarolPre.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/CarolPreflatish
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolPreflatish
 

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

Bridging the Gap

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Charmaine Gordon
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon       



Blurb:
Anna Youngblood and James Chandler have problems. His little daughter overheard his ex say she never wanted kids; Anna must make amends for breaking rules of her tribe; he has a serious concussion and she's pregnant. Can this couple find happiness in River's Edge?


Enchanting Excerpt:
Roscoe steadied his boss, helped him to a bench right there on Main Street. "You're right, Anna. When you're right I won't argue. But give me a day or two and I'll get the boxing gloves on for a real fight." His eyes drooped and shut. Again he'd fallen asleep.

"Shovel him back in the car, please. Let's get the big guy home." Anna called Dr. Brad Cohen.

By the time they'd reached the penthouse, James, awake and in good spirits wondered why his friend, the good Doctor sat outside. "Hey, do you live here?"

"Fat chance. Not until I'm in private practice, maybe. What's up?" The grin on his face didn't match the concerned look he shared with Anna.

Up they went to the penthouse where James made it over to a leather couch and melted into it. Out came the stethoscope, penlight and all the other accoutrement the good doctor brought in his magic bag. "This black bag is an antique handed down from my Gramps to my dad and now me." He patted the worn leather with worship in his blue eyes.

"Verdict?"

"You need more rest. The MRI showed no abnormalities. Good news. But I'll have to keep track of your situation. My educated guess is you work too hard, too fast and need a rest. A tropical island, Anna, your lady love with you, palm trees and coconuts. Sounds so good, I'll come, too. Blood pressure's a bit high but not to worry, I may have the solution." Brad Cohen opened the other bag that had started to wiggle. Like a magician, he pulled out a puppy. "She's a therapy dog, a Beagle like Snoopy in the Charlie Brown cartoons only she's a year and a half old and certified. That's like a college degree for dogs. A lot of hard work and training goes into certification."

The three humans watched the four legged creature sniff all around and suddenly climb up on Jimmy's lap to lay her paws and head against his chest right under his chin. The CEO's rough palms reached up to stroke the smooth coat of multi colors, white, brown, and some black. He searched for Anna with his eyes. She had tears glistening, ready to fall, held in control.


Website: http://authorCharmaineGordon.wordpress.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CharmaineGordon
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/CharJGordon 
Additional: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/533733 
 http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/bridging-the-gap-charmaine-gordon/1121714852

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.

Dream Student

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: J.J. DiBenedetto
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:
Sara Barnes thought everything was totally under control.  All she had to worry about was her final exams, Christmas shopping, applying to medical school – and the cute freshman in the next dorm with a crush on her.  Everything was going according to plan, until she started seeing other people’s dreams.

It’s bad enough that Sara is watching her friends’ most secret fantasies whether she wants to or not.  Much worse are the other dreams, featuring a strange man who commits unspeakable crimes.  Now Sara wonders if she’s the only witness to a serial killer – and the only one who knows where he’s going to strike next.



Enchanting Excerpt:
The truth is, unless I’m completely wrong about him we’re going to go upstairs sooner or later anyway.  It’s just a question of when if it doesn’t happen tonight.
 
But right at this moment, what I decide feels so important.  This is going to sound totally ridiculous, but it feels like something out of a movie.  You know what I mean, that moment when the music softens and the romantic leads are in the spotlight and everything else is forgotten; the whole world stops except for them.

Maybe it’s only my imagination or maybe I’ve got an overly developed sense of the dramatic–a few days ago I would have said it’s definitely that.  But it isn’t.  It’s not just my imagination.  It’s real. It’s exactly what’s happening right now.
 
I don’t know why it’s so important–no, that’s not true.  I do know.  It’s important because it’s exactly what I want and need right now, and maybe I’m lying to myself about love at first sight and everything else.  Maybe I’m just using him to distract myself from the nightmares and not sleeping right, maybe–well, maybe a lot of things.
 
You know what?  I don’t care about maybes, and I don’t care about motives and I don’t care about anything else except that he’s here right now.  He’s looking at me, waiting for me to decide.  Everything else is silent, frozen.  The snowflakes are hanging in midair; the whole world is waiting for my answer.

No pressure, though.  No pressure at all. Yes or no?  Nothing else matters except what I decide.

Yes.


Website: http://www.writingdreams.net
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jjdibenedetto
Author Page: http://viewAuthor.at/JJDiBenedetto

God Whisperer

Weekenders Romance Watch

10% of author royalties will be donated to the American Society for Deaf Children.

Author: Kimberly Troutte

Genre: Mainstream Romance

Buy: Amazon

 Blurb:

A frightened mother on the run…

LONNIE HOGAN has lived and breathed fear for the past eight years. Will the killers find them? She’s ready to run again, or fight for her son’s precious life, but she won’t let anyone take David. 

A desperate man searching for his family…

Few people on St. John, Virgin Islands, know their favorite doctor, MARK NORTON, is a desperate man searching for the life stolen from him. After hours, he surfs the internet for leads gone stone-cold to find his missing family. 

Will sacrifice everything to protect the boy who hears God…

Enchanting Excerpt:

Had they been found?

Holding her breath, she listened. She waited for the bedroom door to scrape open and a dark figure to burst into her room. Her muscle fibers and nerves were ready to propel her body out of bed. She was a live wire. Her senses were on overdrive, ready to yell for help, ready to flee.

Several minutes later she exhaled her relief. No one had gotten in. No one was going to kill them. Tiptoeing down the hall, she went to David's room and gently put her hand on his chest. Her innocent child was fast asleep.

She crawled back into bed. Focusing on the hairline crack in her ceiling, she rehearsed what she'd do if they were caught. Lonnie hated thinking about the scary past showing up on her front porch, but had to prepare. She'd protect David at all costs.

     Mentally, she recited the escape plan she had nicknamed The List:

One: Grab the box hidden under the bed.

Two: Snag the falsified IDs and birth certificate from the sock drawer.

Three: Tuck everything under David's arms and tell him to, "Run to Carrie Beth's!" He'd be confused, but she'd make him understand. She had to.

Four: Run as fast as her legs could carry her unless…she couldn't. If she couldn't get away, she'd stand and fight to save her son. David was the only person who mattered. Only David.

By the time she finished running through her plan she was sobbing into her pillow. The List always made her cry. But not being prepared for the worst was like signing their death warrants.

The worst could be just around the corner. She had to be ready.

Website: http://www.kimberlytroutte.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kimberley-Troutte/207803425918885 

Twitter: https://www.Twitter.com/KTroutte

Cherished Moments - New Release Available Now!

Weekenders Romance Watch

 

Welcome Sneak Peek Sunday! Enjoy this six paragraph snippet.

Author: Mickie Sherwood

Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Topaz Publishing
 

Enchanting Excerpt:

The evening was hot and humid—true South Louisiana weather. Nonetheless, Jordan continued to dance away her troubles. Soon, the denseness of the crowd intensified the temperature. When the tempo of the music slowed, relief rushed over her. This ballad presented the perfect opportunity to sneak off the dance floor. Now she could catch her breath. Jordan strategically mingled at various tables, leaving a few cordial words at each one. With polite gestures, she worked her way from the crowd's core. Beyond the music stage, she spotted a sweet shady spot.

While she imagined herself seated in the space, someone groped her from the rear. Shocked, Jordan jumped. Simultaneously, the person pinned her arms in front of her. Jordan panicked—her body was being held against her will. Movements restricted, her attacker flipped her around with ease. He pressed his face against hers, and then moved his lips backwards until they rested upon her ear.

"Calm down, Senator," he said gruffly.

The sound of the male’s voice made her cringe. “Luther. Are. You. Insane?" In her unflattering position, Jordan tried constantly to escape without garnering attention. However, the fifty-year-old, former boxer was much too strong. He crushed her body against his.

Alcohol oozed from Luther’s pores and irritated her nose. His arms were locked so tight, that she found it difficult to breath. When she finally inhaled, his stale odor filled her lungs.

"What’s this all about, Luther?” She struggled and pushed against him.

 

Blog: http://www.mickiesherwood.com/blog

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MickieSherwood

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/MickieSherwood

 

Enjoy more from Sneak Peek Sunday!

Northern Lights

Weekenders Romance Watch

 

 

Author: Sharon McGregor

Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon

Blurb:

Maddie Smart is at a crossroads. Her job and her relationship have both suddenly ended. On the advice of a friend she flies to a northern fishing lodge to recoup and plan her next move. Here she meets fishermen who don't fish, a policeman who does, a man who says he's seen Sasquatch and a lodge owner who sets her pulses racing.

She finds herself running headlong into danger with no idea of who she can trust. Maddie must face her deepest fear before she can find answers. She also must learn to trust again before she can find her own happy ending.

Enchanting Excerpt:

The tower wasn’t exactly a skyscraper, but was still well above Maddie’s comfort zone where heights were concerned.

She took a deep breath and started up. The steps were open for the first part of the climb, then became a shallow railed stairway before reaching a ledge surrounding the cabin on top. As she came to the last step—afraid to look down—she held her breath and grabbed for the railing to pull herself up on the ledge.

The cabin had openings on each side, but the interior was dark and she was partially blinded by the sun. She couldn’t see any sign of McMillan.

“Hello,” she called out hesitantly, her breath a little shaky from the climb.

Suddenly a figure leapt out at her from the gloom, shoving her against the railing. The rotting wood gave way under her weight and she went flying over the edge. She screamed. Her worst nightmare—falling to her death—was coming true. 

Website: www.sharonmcgregor.com/blog

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NorthernLightsSharonMcGregor?directed_target_id=0

 

Cairo

Victoria Pitts Caine

Liz McCran travels to Cairo, Egypt, in search of Addie and Gary Wright, who were asked to deliver a mysterious envelope, but have vanished. When Liz locates the Wright’s contact, Mr. Moustafa, she receives the first of several riddles.

Rayhan Shenouda agrees to help but his desire is to win Liz’s heart. Following his traditional customs, and much to her surprise, he proposes within days of their meeting.

 

Will the Wright’s be found? Can Rayhan and Liz’s love withstand an inevitable collision of cultures and customs? Or will it all end at the hands of a nomad insurgent named Ahmad?

Cairo