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 Vow for Christmas

Weekenders Romance Watch

Spinster Mail-Order Brides Series Book 7

Author:  Linda Carroll-Bradd
Genre:  Historical romance
Buy: Amazon
 

Blurb:
Against his better judgment, Chad Rutherford advertises for a mail-order bride to take care of his household. As a widower, he’s had his great love and she died, so now he only wants companionship. But vivacious new wife Vika brings light and laugher back into his life until he’s ready to consider more for their relationship. Then a stranger threatens to rip away everything.

Enchanting Excerpt:
Mister Rutherford straightened. “We’d best collect your luggage. Come along, children.” He urged them forward.
 
She was left staring at the back of the three people who looked like a self-contained unit. Did room exist for her in any of their hearts? Shoulders drooping, she trudged behind them, wishing for a strong arm to lean on. On the platform near the freight car rested the trunk holding all her clothes, accessories, and valuables. Next to it were two wooden crates packed with kitchen items, linens, blankets, and her mother’s porcelain tea set. On top of the crates sat the wicker basket holding her beloved pet.
 
The baggage clerk lifted a hand. “Ah, Miss Vika. She’s been whimpering the last few miles.” He lowered the basket to the platform and worked to loosen the rope knot.
 
“Thank you, Mister Frederick, for all your good attention.” She reached into her reticule and pulled out a dime for his tip. Maybe extravagant but the clerk took good care of her Biscuit. Then she leaned down to drop her carpetbag before lifting the lid with one hand and slipping the other into the slim opening to grab Biscuit’s collar. “Calm down. I’m here.” Once she was sure the dog wouldn’t escape, she slid in her other hand to grab the leather leash and clipped it on. With a shove, she flicked back the lid.
 
Biscuit jumped out then shook herself before running her nose along the platform boards.
 
“What in blue blazes is that thing?” Frowning, Mister Rutherford pointed.
 
“She’s my dog, Biscuit.” Vika hurried to the platform edge and let her pet run down the four steps to the dirt to take care of her needs.
 
“You wrote nothing about bringing a pet.” He scoffed and waved a hand in the air. “And a scrawny dog, at that.”
 
After a moment, Biscuit hopped back to the platform then trotted toward the children, tail wagging like a flag in a stiff wind.
 
Her stomach rolled.
 
Both children looked at the dog then glanced at their father’s frown.
 
Would the presence of this surprise pet invalidate their agreement? Tiredness swamped her. “You never wrote that I couldna.” Needing the comfort of a warm being who loved her, she scooped up the dog, hugged Biscuit to her bosom, and kissed her furry head between her pointed ears. “Actually, you never wrote much of anything.”




Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.carrollbradd
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/lindacarroll-bradd
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-carroll-bradd

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

 

Chasing Adventure

Weekenders Romance Watch

Entertainers of the West Series Book 8

Author:  Linda Carroll-Bradd
Genre:  Historical Romance
Buy: Amazon 
 

Blurb:
Dime novelist, Thora Alviss, travels to Montana Territory seeking an ex-US marshal, Harte Renwyck, for an interview, knowing he has knowledge to make her characters better. Harte shies from publicity about his past life, especially about the tragedy related to his last arrest. Thora’s thirst for a good story is stronger than her ability to remain out of danger, and Harte comes to the rescue time and again. Will Thora give up and return east, or will she learn the survival skills she’s been writing about? Can Harte look past his resentment and see the adventurous woman close at hand?

Enchanting Excerpt:
“I admit to being a bit travel weary and the assistance is much appreciated. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.” Nodding, she walked up the steps.

Lofty praise for being neighborly. When was the last time he’d had such pretty words aimed in his direction? Moving with the speed of Mercury, Harte vaulted the steps and rounded the corner of the depot office. A small mountain of luggage comprised of a portmanteau, two valises, two carpetbags, and a satchel squatted beside a wooden bench. His boots skidded to a stop. Looked like he’d be the one making multiple trips.
 
“Oh, dear.” She let out a sigh. “In New York City, the porter used a push cart, and the quantity didn’t pose such a problem.” She dashed forward and grabbed the satchel, lifting the long strap over her head so it rested on her opposite hip. Then she leaned over and reached for a carpetbag.
 
Not wanting her to strain anything, Harte moved to her side. “I offered, although I didn’t know you had so many pieces. But I’ll manage. Somehow.” For a man accustomed to traveling light, he couldn’t imagine what she packed inside all these cases.
 
Cheeks blushing, she straightened and turned her head, her neck stiff. “Deputy, I am a healthy woman perfectly capable of assisting with the transport of my own belongings.”
 
“Duly noted, miss.” His words came out more clipped than he intended. Years of dealing with criminals had stolen his ability for idle talk. Setting his jaw, Harte hoisted the portmanteau to balance on his left shoulder then stooped to grab the handles of the matching carpetbags. “If you lift the valise, I can stretch my fingers around the handle.” Barely, but for his pride’s sake, he needed to make the offer.
 
Bending over, she lifted both valises. “I’ve got them. Now, if you’ll indicate the direction, we’ll be on our way.”
 
The corner of the leather case dug into his shoulder, and his right hand already ached from the weight. “Head toward the brick building down a ways on the opposite side of the street. The boardinghouse is past the mercantile.” He trudged down the steps, each move jolting his shoulder muscles. The lady’s rigid posture and swishing bustle informed him she still resented his thoughtless remark. Not exactly how he envisioned his morning walk through Sweetwater Springs. Chivalry, my backside.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.carrollbradd
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/author/lindacarroll-bradd
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/linda-carroll-bradd

Prancing Around with Sleeping Beauty

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Stacy Juba
Genre: Chick Lit
Buy: Amazon | B&N | iBooks


Blurb:
Dance instructor Rory Callahan likes to play it safe. When she meets Kyle, he’s impulsive, persistent, and her exact opposite. He’s keeping Rory on her toes more than twenty years of dance teachers ever had. Unfortunately, he’s the grandson of her family’s archrival and she doesn’t want to disappoint them. After all, her parents imagine her as a proper princess - hence her namesake Aurora, AKA Sleeping Beauty.  Rory’s also dealing with a boyfriend who’s perfect for her, an obnoxious boss, and desperate dance moms. Kyle wants to change her whole life, but Rory doesn’t like the stakes. After all, princesses are the ones who get happy endings. . .aren’t they?


Enchanting Excerpt:
High above the crowded beach, an airplane skimmed the cloudless blue sky, its hum a distant whine over the thunderous surf. Behind it trailed a banner with red block letters. Cupping her hand over her brow, Rory Callahan squinted in the glaring sunlight.
 
WILL YOU MARRY ME, RORY?
 
She gasped, and her bare feet pressed into the gritty sand. Rory gripped the sides of her sunken beach chair. Her boyfriend, Dr. Brad Walker, a general surgery medical resident at Mountain View Medical Center, occupied the second chair, engrossed in a sports magazine, oblivious to the romantic gesture—or pretending he was oblivious.
 
Rory had accompanied him to the Jersey Shore for his parents’ thirtieth anniversary party. When Brad suggested a morning at the beach before driving back to the Catskills, she never expected a marriage proposal. Her stomach clenched, the semi-queasy reaction surprising her.
 
After all, she had wanted this—well, maybe not this, not yet—but Rory had wanted a declaration of love from the guy her mother worshipped and that her annoying big brother insisted “wasn’t that into her.” Obviously Brad was into her. This proved his willingness to make their relationship work. She would show her brother, and her friends, too. Rory knew her roommates worried that Brad didn’t carve out enough time for her, but unlike Dylan, the girls minded their own business.
 
All brides-to-be probably felt jittery during the proposal. She choked down the very normal mound in her throat, reached over, and touched Brad’s hand. “I had no idea you were planning this. Yes. I’ll . . . I’ll marry you.”
 
Brad dropped the magazine onto his nearby flip-flops as if sand fleas had nested inside the pages. His chiseled face had blanched whiter than his pale chest, arms, and legs. Summer was almost over, and Rory would bet this was the first time he’d worn the charcoal print swim trunks she bought him. “What? What the hell are you talking about?”


Website: http://stacyjuba.com/blog/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stacyjuba
Facebook Group - Storybook Valley Sweethearts: https://www.facebook.com/groups/StorybookValley/

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

 

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
 

At the Mercy of Her Pleasure

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Kayelle Allen
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy:
Amazon | B&N | Print

Blurb:
Hired to steal back a prototype taken by the imperial armada, Senth Antonello retrieves it, but his brother is kidnapped to force Senth to surrender the device.

Now he has to rescue his brother, outsmart the armada, and keep the item out of imperial hands. All doable, except for one small problem. He must do it in the company of NarrAy Jorlan, a genetically altered woman whose pheromones could enhance the mission or crumble it into dust with a single siren kiss.

He's a thief. She's a soldier. Do opposites attract? Oh, mercy!


Enchanting Excerpt:
In this scene, NarrAy discovers Senth locked inside a robotic suitcase, and helps him out. She cannot imagine how he got locked in, and is certain someone tried to kill him. She hasn't realized yet how crazy Senth gets when bored.

NarrAy helped Senth to the bed. "Who did this to you? What happened? I'm calling security."

"No!" He clutched her arm. "NarrAy. Sorry." He gasped for breath. "My fault."

"What happened?" She picked up a booklet from the desk and used it to fan him. "Are you all right?"

He grunted and turned on his side, doubled over.
 
"I'm calling sick bay. You --"

"No! NarrAy." He shook his head and took a deeper breath. "My fault. I was trying...test. See if...if..." He tightened his grip on her arm as he looked away from her. "So stupid."

"I don't understand, Senth. What happened?"

"I was bored, so I…" He pushed his face against the bed, avoiding her gaze. "I break into bagbots all the time. I thought I'd try breaking out of one."

"You did what?" She sank to the floor beside the bed at eye level with him. "Senth, you could've been killed!"

"Once the doors closed, the bot kept trying to compact itself."

All at once she glimpsed the future she'd have with Senth if she pursued him. Her wild missions paled compared to the thought of a life full of stunts like this one. Finding him locked inside some bagbot or cabinet or safe. Having him risk his freedom for the sake of a few rare coins or an old locket like the one he'd stolen for her. Thievery commonplace in her life? Her parents would never, ever approve.

Which was why she had to give that future a chance.

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

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
 

Fooling Around with Cinderella

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Stacy Juba
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon


Blurb:
What happens when the glass slippers pinch Cinderella's toes? When Jaine Andersen proposes a new marketing role to the local amusement park, general manager Dylan Callahan charms her into filling Cinderella’s glass slippers for the summer. Her reign transforms Jaine’s ordinary life into chaos that would bewilder a fairy godmother. Secretly dating her bad boy boss, running wedding errands for her ungrateful sisters, and defending herself from the park’s resident villain means Jaine needs lots more than a comfy pair of shoes to restore order in her kingdom. First in the Storybook Valley series, a blend of sweet romance, chick lit, and fairy tale fun.
 

Enchanting Excerpt:
Jaine Andersen couldn’t stop staring at the framed poster of Cinderella outside the castle. Cylindrical towers and turrets ascended into the sapphire sky, lofty mountains rising in the background. Her hand poised in an elegant wave, Cinderella beamed toward the camera. Ornate script flowed across the right side of the glossy photograph.

Follow your heart, dream big, and you will find the magic.
“Okay, Jaine, time to find the magic,” she mumbled, shifting in her seat.
“Interesting. What magic are you hoping to find?” a masculine voice asked behind her.
The kind that erases someone’s memory and lets you start over? Nice going, Jaine.

Squirming, Jaine clutched the black leather portfolio case in her lap as Dylan Callahan closed his office door. He sat down at a battered desk strewn with papers, her eyes tracking his every movement. Forget Cinderella’s stirring quote. Now Jaine couldn’t tear her gaze off the hot guy conducting her interview. The blond hair ruffled across his forehead made him resemble a Venice Beach surfer, not the general manager of a family theme park.

Winter sports seemed his thing though, considering the posters flanking Cinderella. In one, a skier whipped down a powdery slope while the other showed a snowboarder in mid-air. Inspirational words stretched across the bottom of each print: Goal-Setting for the skier and Persistence for the snowboarder.

To nail this interview, Jaine needed to demonstrate her prowess in both areas. And show that she wasn’t some weirdo who talked to herself.

She recovered her voice. “Actually, I’m hoping to help your company find some marketing magic. Uh, thank you for inviting me in.” Jaine toed her navy blue dress shoes into the industrial carpet, hoping he didn’t notice her fidgeting. When the receptionist had escorted her into the office to wait, she hadn’t expected such a good-looking man to join her.

Focus, Jaine. Focus.

Website: http://stacyjuba.com/blog/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stacyjuba
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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/ 

 

Fiona's Knight of Dreams

Weekenders Romance Watch

Author: Sharon McGregor
Genre: Mainstream Romance
Buy: Amazon
 

Blurb:
Timber ladies are looking for a wife for their new single minister.  But then Charles meets Fiona, the lovely accident-prone and outspoken part-time librarian. She is holding out for a knight on a white charger to carry her away from small town life. Fiona and Charles are thrown together as they begin to solve an old mystery which has turned up in a library book. Will Fiona's white knight show up to sweep her away? Will Charles run out of invitations for cream cakes and lemon slice? Fiona might  discover the sound of hoof-beats when she least expects it.


Enchanting Excerpt:
No sooner had Charles Redpath entered her thoughts than he entered the library.

"Finished your books already?  You must be a fast reader."

"Well, I discovered I'd already read the Perry Mason and the book on Revelation was a little too much on the dry side."

"Funny, I thought Revelation was the one preachers used to scare the congregations. I never thought of it as dry. But then any book of sermons might take a little work to get through. I mean if you have to listen to one on Sunday mornings, why would you.." she broke off and put her hand to her mouth to stop any more words escaping. “I’m sorry, I didn't mean…"

"Oh I know what you meant." She looked up expecting to see an expression of censure or hurt or disapproval, but instead Fiona could swear his eyes were twinkling, very nice brown eyes with a definite twinkle. Now why did she think that?

"Sunday sermons are an occasional requisite for spiritual guidance," he said, “but a little can go a long way. On the other hand, mine sometimes have a certain soporific value."

"Not if you're preaching them on Revelation," she retorted.

"Good. Your smile is back." He held out the book of sermons, "Actually I wanted to show you something in this one."

She looked at the book suspiciously. Was she wrong in her evaluation? Was he going to start giving her a private lesson in the scripture?

He shook the book and two envelopes fluttered out to the counter. "I found these in the book and I wonder if we should try to return them to the owner."


Web page/Blog: http://www.sharonmcgregor.com/blog
Facebook: https://goo.gl/hUSNUp
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sharonmcgr

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

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.

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
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