Release Tour – TBR Book Blog

Release Tour ~ When Stars Fall ~ by ~ W. Million

When I got my first big break, I was thrilled to be co-starring with Wyatt Burgess and thought I could handle life with him. But, when his best friend overdoses outside a nightclub, Wyatt spirals deeper into his addictions. After ten years of heartache, I’m content with the life I created and the last thing I expected was to see Wyatt on TV, telling the world his biggest regret is losing me. Readers who love second-chance romances will consume When Stars Fall by Wendy Million, a forced proximity, celebrity romance.

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He’s the most famous movie star in the world, and now he’s on my doorstep begging for a second chance.

When I got my first big break, I was thrilled to be co-starring with the Wyatt Burgess–former childhood star, charismatic, sexy as hell–and heavily dependent on drugs and alcohol.

I thought I could handle life with him, and I did for a while. But after his best friend overdosed outside a nightclub, he spiraled deeper into his addictions. Desperate, I gave him an ultimatum: the lifestyle or me.

After ten years of heartache, I’ve carved out a life that makes me feel stable and content. The last thing I expect is Wyatt Burgess on my television screen, telling the whole world his biggest regret is losing me.

Now he’s standing in front of me, forcing me to choose between the comfortable life I’ve created and the passionate whirlwind that allowing him back into my life could bring.

But I wasn’t one hundred percent honest when I left, and I fear he’ll never forgive me.

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Excerpt

Wyatt

Present Day

I’m sweating. Profusely. It’s disgusting. I tug at the collar of my freshly pressed shirt and loosen my tie. I’ll tighten it before I go on set.

Leaning forward on the couch, I grab my water from the coffee table. Bottles of alcohol line the bar to the right. A sign encourages everyone to help themselves. There is nothing worse than wanting a drink, being surrounded by alcohol, and not being able to have any. I need to be sober for this interview. Ellie will see it.

I grab some candy off the table and pop it into my mouth, chewing slowly. The greenroom is a weird shade of lime. Whenever I’m in a green waiting area, I’m always disappointed. We’re in a creative business—lime isn’t creative; it’s just hard on my eyes. Jackson Billows, the host of the late-night program, probably thinks the color is hilarious.

I wiggle my back along the too-stiff couch. Maybe I’ve been doing this whole scene too long. Few things in the entertainment business surprise me anymore. Of course, having this big a stage, a platform for my announcement, is helpful. Surprises may be few and far between for me personally, but I can still deliver a couple.

“You’re on in five, Mr. Burgess.” A dark-haired man pops his head into the room.

I nod. Say nothing. Check my phone again. The few people who understand my plan are reluctantly on board. A last-minute Break a leg text rolls in. I turn off my ringer, readjust my tie and collar. My suit jacket is stifling, but she used to like me suited and booted. Every advantage is necessary. I’m about to blow up her life.

For ten years, Ellie has been coordinating her projects and schedule to avoid me. We’ve developed an unspoken agreement to keep each other and Isaac, my best friend, out of the press. The weight of his death has remained ours to carry.

Jackson enters from the hidden side door. “You all right, buddy?” He perches on a chair across from me.

“Sweating like a pig.”

“It’s been ten years, man. This will be great television, don’t get me wrong, but Ellie is going to eat your nuts for breakfast tomorrow.”

“I picked you for a reason, Jack. Don’t let me down.” I drain the rest of my water and wish the liquid was something much stronger.

“We could have booked you both on the show. Left you here in the greenroom to sort out your issues in private.” Jackson stands.

“She’d have canceled. Whenever she’s gotten wind I’m in the area, her cavalry rides to the rescue. I even flew to Bermuda and not one person—not one,” I say, holding up a finger, “would tell me where she lived.”

“What makes you think she’s going to take any notice of you this time?” he asks.

“She’ll have no choice.” Certainty washes over me, and I point to my phone. “Finally got her address. I’m headed to the airport as soon as we’re done.”

“Ten years and you’re just going to show up on her doorstep? Do you need the public spectacle first?”

He has a point, but if I go without the spectacle, she’ll slam the door in my face. “I’m trying to make it impossible for her to say no.”

“I hope that doesn’t make it hard for her to say yes later.” Jack arches his eyebrows.

Truthfully, I haven’t thought that far in advance. All I’ve done is organize Operation Get Her to Talk to Me. The rest will fall into place. A long time ago, I was her kryptonite. God knows she’s always been mine.

The doors split as we walk toward the set. Jack heads to the stage and I stand in the wings, waiting to make my entrance.

By midnight tonight, she’ll realize I’m done with our unspoken truce.

I’m coming for you, Ellie.

Jackson gives his rambling introduction, then I strut onto the set. The crowd goes wild, and I drop into my seat. I adjust my jacket and wave to the audience as the screams die down.

Jackson’s right about one thing: Ellie will not take this well.

About Wendy Million

Wendy Million is an award-winning author whose contemporary romances about strong women and troubled men have captivated her loyal readers. She is the author of the contemporary second-chance romances, When Stars Fall and Miss Matched. Writing as W. Million, she is the author of the Bellerive Royals series, the Tucker Billionaires series, and the Little Falls series. When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those).

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Release Tour ~ Retribution ~ by ~ Wendy Million

As an undercover FBI agent, Kimi is no stranger to life-threatening situations. So when her latest assignment leads to one of Boston’s biggest crime families, she’s confident she can handle the pressure. But as she becomes embroiled in the lives of Finn and Lorcan Donaghey, Kimi realizes she might not be able to separate her job from her heart so easily this time. Readers who enjoy romantic suspense and mafia romances will want to sink their teeth into Retribution by Wendy Million, an enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity romance.

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As an undercover FBI agent, Kimi is no stranger to life-threatening situations. When her newest assignment leads to the Donaghey brothers, one of Boston’s biggest crime families, Kimi is confident she can handle the pressure.

But as she becomes embroiled in the lives of Finn and Lorcan, she realizes she might not be able to separate her job as Kim from the heart of Kimi quite so easily this time.

On the cusp of a mob war, Kimi must decide who to believe and who to save. Sometimes doing the right thing means doing something very wrong.

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Excerpt

Get it together, Kim. Get your head in the game, Kimi. Deep breaths.

The door opens without a knock. Why didn’t I lock it?

“Kim?” Lorcan’s words have the lilting quality that warms my body.

With the wall for support, I try to rise, but my legs almost give out. He rushes to my side and wraps a strong, sturdy arm around my waist.

“What the hell?” He examines my face, confusion and annoyance warring in him.

“I’m not feeling well.”

Concern overtakes the other emotions, filling his hazel eyes, and his lips purse. “We’ll reschedule.”

“No.” I shake my head. “I just need a minute.” Easing away from him, I tug down my jacket and straighten my shirt. My hands are raw, red.

“Kim.” His voice is pitched low. “I’m not putting you in that room if you’re feeling rough.” The bright color of my hands catches his attention, and he snatches one to examine. “What’d you do?”

“The soap.” With my head, I gesture to the sink.

He watches me, curiosity tinged with anger dancing across his face. “Did my deartháir mor do something to you earlier?”

I tug my hand from his larger ones. “No, no. I’m fine. I must have eaten something that didn’t agree with me. It came on suddenly, but I’m fine now. I can do this. I’ll be fine.” Even as I say it, my hand shakes when I yank again on the bottom of my jacket.

“That room is full of men who could kill us. It’s not the time for false bravado. Could you shoot a gun right now?” His voice is an urgent whisper.

“No.”

“No?”

“No.” Under my lashes, I can’t meet his gaze.

He sighs. While he looks at me, his hands clench into fists and then relax over and over. “Come out when you’re feeling better, or I’ll have someone come get you when we’re done. You hear shots, you get the hell outta here. Exit out to your left. You understand me?”

“Yeah, yeah.”

I don’t glance up until the door clicks closed behind him. At the sink, I press my hands into the sides of the vanity and stare at myself. Any credibility I’ve built the last few weeks is being destroyed the longer I’m in here. My black eyes peer back at me in a face that appears sun-kissed. I yank my hair out of the ponytail and redo it, trying to blank out my mind.

Chad. My Chad in that photo.

When I focus on my hands, Chad’s sticky hair coats them, blood seeping between my fingers as I scream for help in a deserted street. My chest aches at the memory. With my eyes closed, I swallow, and my throat is scratchy. I pushed these memories down so far I didn’t think they’d ever resurface.

It’s been twenty years. Might as well be yesterday.

I will get answers. When he died, I was too young; I didn’t understand. Seeing his picture on the wall is like having a window pried open in a hot, stuffy room.

I’m not closing it again.

War might be inevitable.

If the O’Malleys killed Chad, I’ll be the one firing the first shot.

About Wendy Million

When not writing, Wendy enjoys spending time in or around the water. She lives in Ontario, Canada with two beautiful daughters, two cute pooches, and one handsome husband (who is grateful she doesn’t need two of those).

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Release Tour ~ Rose Moon ~ by ~ Heidi Adams

On the outside, Karter appears to have the perfect life, but no one knows about the debilitating episodes that invade his mind and body. The only place he’s ever felt at ease is at his grandfather’s house, where he meets the mysterious Ella. As Karter and Ella get to know one another, they find themselves connected on a deeper level that neither understands. Readers who enjoy forbidden romances will devour Rose Moon by Heidi Adams, a steamy paranormal romantasy.

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What secrets do we keep to protect the one we love? What lies do we tell, and what are we willing to sacrifice?

Karter Quint has the perfect life: star athlete, gifted pianist, straight A-student, handsome and charismatic, he seems fated for success. What nobody knows is that he has battled debilitating episodes during which a strange force invades his mind and body. The only place where Karter truly feels at ease is at his grandfather’s house on the water in Cliff Island, Maine. There, he meets a mysterious girl named Ella and has an instant obsession. He learns that she is a Meridian, or mermaid. Karter and Ella find themselves connected on a higher level—a level that neither understands.

They begin a heated and intense romance constrained by their limiting circumstances. However, loving Ella comes at a cost. Karter must take extreme measures of secrecy to protect her, straining relationships with his family and friends well into his adult life.

Rose Moon is an emotional and epic love story, and the first in a paranormal romance series, that will keep you guessing until the very end.

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Excerpt

We relocate to the outdoor sofa, and she reclines against my chest. The little time we have left is bittersweet, and finally, the time is up. A wave of pain ripples through me as I glance at my phone. It’s 11:30 p.m.

I want the weight of her body against me forever. Closing my eyes, I tighten my arms around her, breathing in her scent. Her arms reach overhead and grasp the back of my neck.

We both hold on to this unparalleled moment.

“It’s time,” I say to her quietly.

She doesn’t move. I blink back the sting in my eyes. Her chest heaves under my arms, then she slowly sits up.

Tears spill out the corners of her eyes as she faces me.

“Soon we’ll be able to hear each other’s thoughts.” I wipe a tear off her cheek, holding mine in.

“I am sorry I cannot stay like this.”

“You never need to be sorry for who you are. I fell in love with you. I wish I could be with you in there.” I shift my eyes to the water, and my legs are heavy as I stand.

We surveyed the area a few days ago and determined a shallow spot along the rocks would make a safe and easy transition into the bay. I smile reassuringly as I hold her hand while we walk down the set of stairs and onto the grass. Flashlights guide us on our journey down the trail to the rocky water’s edge. I’m grateful that at this moment we can’t feel each other’s emotions or hear each other’s thoughts. My smile is my mask to the pain that has turned to numbness inside.

We continue to walk cautiously down the narrow trail, flashlights cutting through the darkness. Our bodies brush against the leaves that reach out like fingers to touch us. When we reach the water’s edge, I close my eyes and clench my jaw. Fighting the tightness in my throat, I turn to her. She stands before me, tears streaking her cheeks.

She’s baring her soul, like she always has, like we both have. So why am I hiding my true feelings? If I deny the pain, is it still real? Can it still rip me apart? But this is real, and this is raw…and this is us. I need to feel the elation and the devastation. I want to drink us straight, no chaser. My bottom lip quivers, and my vision blurs. Before I can reach for her, her body slams into mine.

We’re enveloped in each other’s arms, and neither one of us can breathe through our sobs. I’m lanced with layers of pain, not just of her last moments with me as a human but the uncertainty of what is to come.

My lips seize hers, despite their quivering, tasting the salt of her tears. This is our last kiss before our mental connection returns, so I hold nothing back. My kiss is raw, fervent, hiding nothing but holding on to everything.

At last, we separate and place our flashlights on the water’s edge. Ella slips out of her clothing. There won’t ever be a time when her naked body doesn’t take my breath away.

I step backward along the shallow rocky coastline, and my fingers curl around hers, guiding her into the water as we both wince at the cold. I submerge myself in a seated position and lay her in my arms. Our eyes never waver from one another’s.

I gently grip the smooth skin of her legs as rippling sensations course along my side and fingers. The smoothness is replaced with the texture of a thousand pearls as her scales form. The pearls connect, sealing together the space between her inner thighs down to her ankles and flowing into the fins of her tail.

A surge of electricity jolts through me as our mental connection clicks into place. I close my eyes to focus on this familiar yet spinning sensation. I fight off the rising pressure in my temples, clearing my mind. A smile stretches across my face as I open my eyes. It’s good to have our connection back.

“I missed that,” I say.

“I did too.”

I scan her body. “Do you feel back to normal?”

“I do.”

Her magnetism pulls at my core. “I need to get used to this again.” I test my lips against hers, feeling their softness and the movements of her mouth, chasing out the pressure in my head.

“It’s going to be lonely not sleeping next to you,” she says.

“I know. I’m even going to miss you taking all the covers and pushing me to a little sliver on the side of the bed.”

“Me, too.” She laughs, but there’s sadness in it. “When will I see you again?”

“Tomorrow, and almost every night for the rest of the summer.”

I don’t say before I leave.

Basking in each other’s presence, sometimes speaking, sometimes not, it’s time for me to let her go. This time when I release her, a piece of me goes with her.

About Heidi Adams

Hi! My name is Heidi Adams, and I write wherever my characters guide me, which is mostly romance! A little paranormal/fantasy, a little contemporary, sometimes even a little dark. My characters take me on journeys that push me to the edge of my emotions with toe-curling passion, heart-pounding suspense that will leave you on the edge of your seat, and a ride full of twists and turns…but passion and love are always the driving force behind my characters and the heart of their stories. I love LOVE! And when I write, I escape into a world that love conquers all, even in the darkest of hours.

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Release Tour ~ Make My Heart Malt ~ by ~ Gia Stevens

Ten years is a long time to be infatuated with your former best friend, especially when she’s dating your brother. So, when a wedding invitation with his name embossed on the front comes in the mail, it feels like a fastball to the heart. But when I discover my unrequited crush isn’t the blushing bride, all bets are off because I’m ready to take my shot and this time, I’m playing for keeps. Readers who enjoy hate-to-lovers and unrequited romances will consume Make My Heart Malt by Gia Stevens, a standalone sports romance.

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Amazon → https://geni.us/MMHM_Amazon

Apple Books → https://geni.us/MMHM_AppleBooks

Kobo → https://geni.us/MMHM_Kobo

Barnes & Noble → https://geni.us/MMHM_Nook

Google Play → https://geni.us/MMHMGooglePlay

A sizzling hate to lovers, unrequited crush, standalone sports romance by romantic comedy author Gia Stevens…

Dessa should have been mine… until my brother kissed her first.

Ten years is a long time to be infatuated with your former best friend, especially when she’s dating your brother. So, when I receive a wedding invitation with his name embossed on the front, it feels like a fastball to the heart. But it turns out, my unrequited crush isn’t the blushing bride after all.

Now’s my only chance to make amends for my past mistakes and give her the kiss I’ve desperately been holding onto. Unfortunately, she thwarts my efforts with each drink she throws at me.

When we find ourselves locked in a storage room, we’re forced to hash out the real reason I left town—and it wasn’t for baseball. Turns out, there’s a fine line between anger and passion and it doesn’t take long for her to scream my name.

Even after hitting third base, she still hates me. However, I’m determined to prove I’m not the man who ghosted her all those years ago. This time I’m not walking away.

My last game ended in a devastating miss—costing us the world championship, but this is one game I refuse to lose.

Because when it comes to Dessa… I’m playing for keeps.

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Excerpt

He lifts the glass to eye level, inspecting the drink. “So, what’s this one called?” He takes a sip.

My tongue peeks out, wetting my lips. “Sex on the Couch.”

He chokes on the drink. A small giggle escapes me as I pass him a napkin.

“There’s a little hint of sweetness that caught me off guard.” He holds his thumb and index finger in front of him centimeters apart.

“It’s the agave nectar.” I busy myself with making another drink before he can finish the last one. I roll the rim of the glass in pink sugar. Once it’s finished, I slide it across the counter.

“What’s this one?”

“This one is called Asshole.”

He squints at the pink liquid. “I don’t get it.”

I bite my lips together to hide my laughter. “You slide your tongue around the rim and then toss it back.”

His gaze jerks to mine. A slow smile plays on his lips. “Got it.”

A hint of desire dances in his irises. Either that, or the alcohol is causing me to hallucinate. His tongue peeks out as he swipes it around the edge of the glass. With hooded eyes he wraps his lips around the rim, watching me the entire time before tipping back the shot glass. His Adam’s apple bobs up and down as he swallows. Why’s it so hot? I tug at the collar of my sweatshirt. When did it get so tight? I should hate him, not want to jump over the counter and ride his face like a jockey at the Kentucky Derby. I pour the rest from the shaker in a glass and swallow the last gulp. It’s a desperate attempt to bring my body temperature back to normal, which I’m almost positive is caused by the dirty thoughts playing through my head. Either way, I need a distraction from Garrett. Or myself.

Vodka. Vodka is a good distraction. With the bottle in hand, I pour two shots into a shaker to make a new drink. Garrett’s eyes are on me the entire time from the other side of the counter. My heart races as he tracks my every move. When it’s finished, I slide it over to him. He studies the glass, then lifts his gaze to mine.

“Are you trying to get me drunk?”

“You’re a lot more manageable when you’re passed out.”

He barks out a laugh, then swallows the pink liquid, and I do the same.

After he’s finished, his tongue runs over his bottom lip, and I can’t help shifting my weight, rubbing my thighs together.

“What’s that one called?” he asks.

“Get Me Naked,” I whisper softly.

His normally green irises darken to a hunter green, almost black, and his nostrils flare. I can only imagine he’s having the same thoughts as I am. It looks like he wants to jump over the counter and maul me like a ravenous grizzly bear.

“Say the words, Dessa. Don’t mask them behind drink names.”

Is he reading my thoughts? The glass slips out of my hand and shatters on the linoleum floor. Shards of glass scatter across the floor.

“Shit.” I bend down and grab the large pieces, placing them in my palm.

The stool scrapes across the wood floor as Garrett races around the end of the island to help. He holds out his hand for me to put what I’ve collected in his palm. While he throws the pieces into the trash, I get the broom from the tall storage pantry and sweep the rest. When I’m finished, I return the broom to the closet and close the door. I whirl around and immediately collide with Garrett’s very strong and muscular chest.

“I’m sorry.” My words are barely a whisper as my fingers brush over the cotton fabric covering his pecs. Without saying anything, his fingers rest on my waist as he leans around me to throw a piece of glass into the garbage. When he returns to his full height, he doesn’t move. His gaze wanders from my eyes to my mouth. I part my lips, wetting the bottom one with my tongue. He inches closer, his grip on me growing tighter. My breathing grows shallow. There’s so much electricity flowing between us it could power the entire state. His fingers flex on my waist.

“Garrett,” his name is a cross between a whisper and a plea.

His hand reaches up and cups my cheek as my chest heaves with every passing second. Then his mouth crashes onto mine in a fervent, desperate kiss. With a hand on my hip, he spins me around and without breaking the seal of his lips on mine, he lifts me onto the counter with no effort. My knees instinctively spread to allow room for his body to nestle in between.

He pulls away and runs the tip of his nose over mine. “Tell me you want this.”

About Gia Stevens

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

When she’s not busy writing your next book boyfriend, Gia can be found binge watching TV shows that aired five years ago, taking pictures of her cat, or curled up with a steamy romance novel.

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Release Tour ~ Bound by the Goddess ~ by ~ Selina Bevan

A witch, three mysterious men, and a Soul Bond from The Morrigan herself. Their intensifying bond destabilises her magic, threatening to expose the hidden world of magic. Can they control their magic and passion before they make the front page of the tabloids? If you love destined lovers and paranormal romance, then you’ll devour Bound by the Goddess by Selina Bevan, an opposites attract, bad boy hero, fated love, why choose romance with no crossing swords.

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When the Goddess of War and Witchcraft decides to play matchmaker, you know things are gonna get messy.

I was used to my fire magic causing trouble, but three mysterious strangers ignited something in me I’d never felt before. An eternal Soul Bond gifted by the Morrigan herself, tying me to Knox, Finlay and Rhydian forever.

As witches, keeping magic hidden from humans is key. But there’s nothing subtle about these three men, or the way they make me feel. Soon our passion and powers are spiralling out of control.

We have to master the depth of the Bond before we lose each other… or end up on the front page of the tabloids. ’Cause one thing’s for sure — when the Morrigan wants to stir up chaos, she doesn’t do it by half measures.

This witch has her work cut out for her. But with three irresistible heroes by my side? Bring on the madness.

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Excerpt

I couldn’t miss the way they clamoured to be near her. Knox’s spacial awareness had totally evaporated at the bar. Had I not been my typical paranoid self, he would have driven Edin to orgasm with an audience and regretted it when it backfired on him.

If I lost control like that, it would get me and them killed.

Maybe if I maintained my distance, I wouldn’t get lost in the desperate need to touch her.

Finlay slid a palm beneath her shirt, making her shiver and her head loll back to bare the delicate line of her throat.

Ripe for the biting. Marking. Claiming.

I jerked my gaze away, stomach twisting. Fucking stupid, to let it get to me. I’d seen them with plenty of women over the years. This shouldn’t have been any different.

But watching them touch Edin, tasting her gasps and swallowing her sighs… it gutted me in ways I couldn’t explain. Couldn’t reason.

“Rhydian…” A husky rasp, full of too much sin for my blackened soul to hear.

My head snapped up. Edin watched me from beneath lowered lashes, amber eyes glowing in the dim light. Seeing right through me, down to the howling beast rattling its cage.

Knox lifted his head from her neck, teeth flashing white against kiss-swollen lips. “What’s wrong, Rhyd? Too scared for a taste?”

I should walk away. Retreat to the chilly isolation that kept me sharp. Focused. Sane.

But my feet might as well have been welded to the floor. Trapped by the heated promise in Edin’s eyes, the sway of her body as Finlay thumbed circles into the skin above her hip.

Knox smirked, his gaze flitting between me and Edin. “Fair warning,” he stage-whispered to her, “he’s the grumpy one.” He jerked his chin toward me.

She glanced my way, eyes dancing with mirth, but also concern. “I’m sure I can win him over.”

“You might be waiting a while. He rarely cracks a smile.” Knox heaved a dramatic sigh. “Alas, we bear the burden bravely.”

“Left to your own devices, you’d have burned down the city or started a war by now.” The words slipped out before I could catch them.

Edin laughed again, the sound sliding under my skin as she cocked her head, studying me. I felt pinned in place by her gaze, netted by invisible strings.

Knox blinked in surprise, glancing between us before his grin turned sharper. Plotting, no doubt. I shouldn’t have encouraged him.

“Hidden depths.” Edin’s smile eased the tense lines around her mouth, travelling all the way to her eyes. No longer braced for attack but leaning into Knox’s side, at home in a way I hadn’t expected. “A grumpy exterior masking a secret softie.”

“Soft is one thing he’s not.” Knox slid a sly glance my way. “Isn’t that right, Rhyd?”

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About Selina Bevan

Selina Bevan is a British paranormal romance author who writes delicious heroes and captivating worlds, delving deep into the magic and love, with witches, deities, and a spectrum of supernatural beings finding their soulmates in the most unexpected places. She is a chai tea addict who loves a good gig and finding new alt-rock music when mindlessly scrolling Instagram at night. Selina writes MF and RH/Why Choose romances with strong-willed but flawed British heroines. Also writing as Morgana Bevan.

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Release Tour ~ Rival Hearts ~ by ~ W. Million

Grady Castillo isn’t the biggest fan of Mayor Maggie Sullivan and when he sees she’s up for reelection, he can’t help but throw a wrench into her plans. However, as the race heats up and unwanted feelings arise, Grady begins to realize there’s more to Maggie than meets the eye. Readers who love small-town romances will devour Rival Hearts by W. Million, a slow-burn, friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance.

“I had a ball going through this one as your writing is so free-flowing and easy to get into. I could definitely feel the angst between Grady and Maggie, and loved it when all of their secrets began to finally spill out! I found myself thinking of the story even when I was done working for the day… These two will certainly latch onto your heart!” – Proof Positive Editing Services

“Maggie is a shoo-in to be reelected as mayor of Little Falls until her ex-lover Grady comes back to town, sparking a rivalry that’s just as personal as it is political. Scandalous secrets and lies are revealed that bring to light the pair’s complicated past in this romantic story of love, loyalty, and redemption.” Brittany M., Proofreader, Red Adept Editing

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Coveting my brother’s girlfriend is one thing, but acting on it is a step too far. It’s too bad it’s a step I’ve already taken.

The first time I met Maggie Sullivan, she was my brother’s guest at Sunday dinner. That should have been enough to keep me away. It wasn’t.

The night I lost control and gave into my passion was also the night of my brother’s arrest for selling drugs—a business I was sure Maggie must have had a hand in.

Overwhelmed with guilt, I seized a chance to try out for Center Stage, a televised singing competition. Winning changed my life.

Now, years later, I’ve returned to Little Falls to reconnect with my family, and Maggie Sullivan has somehow managed to become mayor.

With only twenty-four hours until she’s reelected uncontested, I decide to throw a wrench into her perfect life.

When the race heats up, and old, unwanted feelings surface, I start to realize that Maggie might not fit the box I’ve shoved her into all these years.

Soon, I’m wondering if I want to steal the election, or if the real victory lies in winning Maggie’s heart.

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Excerpt

My body was a traitor. I’d spent the last hour staring at the center of his chest instead of his stupid chiseled face, not giving him the satisfaction of making eye contact. What would I see in Grady’s eyes when I glanced up? Twelve years ago, we’d been this close, closer, and those eyes stole a piece of my soul. I couldn’t afford to give any more away.

With a deep breath, I stepped back and stared at him. He was stupidly tall and broad. I couldn’t remember exactly how tall. Six foot five, maybe? Enough to hurt my neck if I was too close, barefoot, and looked up for too long. I squared my shoulders and gave him a sugary smile. “You must be thirsty.” My tone was so sweet it dripped syrup. “All that singing would be hell on your voice. No need to speak.” I held up a hand in the direction of his face. “I wouldn’t want you to strain your precious vocal cords.”

Grady’s brown eyes scanned me, and I tried to decipher the emotion behind them. Amusement and something else I couldn’t place. He chuckled and raised his bottle of water. “No need to worry, Maggie May. I don’t make a living off my voice anymore, so I can let it get as rough as it needs to be.”

The familiar timbre sent an unexpected jolt through me. I hadn’t heard his voice in person since that night. Goose bumps rose on my arms, and I yanked my sweater tighter. “My middle name isn’t May.”

His lips quirked up, unrepentant, and he didn’t respond. Someone tried to get his attention. He shook his head and gave them an apologetic smile, gesturing toward me. “We’re catching up.” The crowd around him thinned back.

“No, we’re not,” I muttered.

His lips quirked again, but he didn’t say anything.

“You’re back in town, then? Trying to make something of your life?” I jutted out my chin and crossed my arms. Any sense of playing nice disappeared. The goose bumps on my skin were from disgust, nothing else. I hated him.

He scanned the crowded bar. “Seems to be a few people who think I’ve already made something of myself.” He shrugged. “But they’re probably easily impressed—give them a glossy surface and they’ll root for anyone.” He directed his pointed gaze at me and sipped his bottle of water. “I heard you’d graduated from ruining one man’s life to taking down a whole town. Little Falls still standing, or have you demolished it as well?”

His mother lived in Little Falls on the opposite side of town to my family. Penny Castillo had put my sign on her lawn during the previous election. Of all the conflicts I had helped to settle over the last four years as mayor, none of them caused my blood to boil like Grady was doing right now. He knew nothing about anything.

Leaning forward on my toes, I said, “I’ve spent the last four years looking after the people you abandoned while you chased fame and fortune.” I raised my eyebrows in a challenge. I’d been the one to help Penny Castillo fix her garage when a windstorm had taken off half the roof; I’d been the one who picked up Trent from jail when he was finally released; I’d been the one to find his brother a job a few towns over when no one else wanted to hire him. What had Grady done? Won a singing contest and disappeared.

“Only four years?” His intensity drilled into me. “What was Trent’s sentence again?”

I hated the heat creeping into my face.

Rage.

The heat was from rage and not humiliation. “It’ll be me looking after them for another four years twenty-four hours from now.”

“What are you talking about?” His sharp gaze turned curious, thoughtful.

My jaw ached from holding back the diatribe threatening to explode out. “I’m running uncontested for another term as mayor of Little Falls.”

Grady pinched the bridge of his nose and then looked toward the ceiling. “Uncontested?”

“That’s right. Uncontested,” Lila said, appearing out of nowhere to throw her arm around my shoulders. Her words were slurred, but I was so glad for the backup, her level of drunkenness didn’t matter. “It’s because she’s the best fucking mayor in any town anywhere.”

Throwing back his head, Grady laughed. “In any town anywhere?”

With a frown, Lila used one finger and pressed it into his broad chest. “Yes! God. Why do you have to be such a hot prick?”

I clamped my hand over Lila’s mouth. In the morning, Lila would regret those words. “She meant the prick part. The hot part is the Jell-O shots talking. Everyone in this bar is hot to her right now.”

“What makes you so sure no one is going to run against you at the last minute?” Grady’s eyebrows lifted, and he raised his bottle to his lips again.

Lila laughed through my hand and removed it from her face. “Because they’d have to own property in town, get enough supporters or file as an independent, and they’d have to think they could beat Maggie. No one is that dumb or that desperate.” Considering how drunk Lila appeared to be, I was impressed with how smoothly her little speech spilled out of her. “And,” Lila added, holding up her finger, “we know everyone who fits the criteria, and they’re not running.” She cocked an eyebrow at Grady and flicked out a hip. “Maggie’s got it in the bag.”

On instinct, I wanted to correct Lila, but the expression on Grady’s face made me hold my tongue. Technically, Lila wasn’t wrong, but I didn’t like the way Grady’s gaze turned calculating as it dragged across us. He chuckled to himself, and a hint of amusement lit his face.

A Hispanic woman I didn’t recognize appeared at the edge of our circle. “Sorry to bother you, Mr. Castillo. But we were hoping to get a selfie and an autograph? You’re like the biggest celebrity around here.”

“Sure.” Grady half turned toward his fan. The smile on his face had faded at the request. “Ladies.” Grady pointed his water bottle at us. “I’ll be seeing you around. I bought some prime real estate in Little Falls. Looks like we’ll be neighbors.”

About W. Million

Million is an award-winning author whose contemporary romances about strong women and troubled men have captivated her loyal readers. She is the author of the Bellerive Royals series and the Tucker Family Billionaires series. Writing as Wendy Million, she is the author of the contemporary second chance romances, When Stars Fall and Miss Matched.

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Release Tour ~ Whiskey Kisses ~ by ~ Rochelle Allison

When an injury prevents Tristan from fighting in the ring, his family puts him in charge of taking over Doyle Whiskey. It’s the perfect opportunity for him until the owner’s daughter, Evie, stumbles back into his life. Time may have changed them both, but when Tristan discovers Evie’s life is in danger, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her, even if it means marriage. Readers who enjoy marriage-of-convenience romances will devour Whiskey Kisses by Rochelle Allison, a steamy friends-to-lovers, mafia romance.

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Caught between family loyalty and their affection for one another…

Tristan

I always get my way.

Fighting is my life. In the ring, on the street, there’s no problem that can’t be solved with my fists.

When an injury puts me on the sidelines, my family sends me down South on business. They want me to take over Doyle Whiskey, a job they claim is perfect for me.

And it is, until the owner’s daughter stumbles back into my life.

Evie’s not the shy, awkward girl I knew as a kid. She’s beautiful and fierce, and she doesn’t need me.

Until she does.

Just because I can’t step into the ring, it doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten how to fight. Especially for a girl like Evie.

Evie

Our marriage might be a sham, but our friendship isn’t.

When my father’s debts land him in hot water, there’s a lot more than just money on the line. My freedom is at risk, and if I don’t figure something out, I could end up married off as payment.

But then Tristan shows up to take over our distillery. He’s as gorgeous as ever, but he’s not the sweet, mischievous boy I crushed on as a kid. He makes deals and takes what he wants and when he sees that I’m in danger, he takes me, too. In marriage.

I know he’s protecting his own interests by protecting me, but it doesn’t matter. I’ve wanted him my whole life, and I’ll do whatever it takes to protect him right back.

Because the queen’s the most powerful piece on the board.

Whiskey Kisses is a steamy, dark, Irish mob romance. Marriage of convenience, m/f, friends-to-lovers, forced proximity.

It’s the second book of the Gangland Hearts trilogy, which should be read in order. Recommended for mature audiences

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Excerpt

“I didn’t fuck you last night because you were on another planet. Not because I didn’t want you.”

“You don’t have to explain yourself,” she says, her face still turned away. “You were being decent, and I appreciate it.”

“Obviously, I do have to explain myself because you took off this morning.”

“It’s fine, Tristan,” she says primly. “I know I’m not your type.”

“Bold of you to assume that you know my type.”

Her eyes narrow slightly. “Maribelle was.”

“I was fifteen,” I say with a scoff. “Every girl was my type back then.”

She shakes her head the tiniest bit. “Not me.”

“Not when you were twelve, no. But things are a little different now,” I say, pushing my semi into the cradle of her hips a little to show her what I mean.

Evie sucks in a sharp breath, her eyes finally meeting mine.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I roll to her side, giving her some room, but I don’t go far. Instead, I draw my fingertips up and down her thigh, watching her pupils dilate as goosebumps pebble across her petal-soft skin. “Why’d I have to find out from your skanky sister?”

A soft breath huffs past her parted lips. “Because I didn’t want you to know. You never should’ve found out at all.”

“Did you think I’d turn you down?” I ask quietly, unable to look away from those lips. I trail my fingers up the inside of her thigh, wondering if her other lips are the same shade of pink.

“I knew you would,” she says, breathing shallowly.

“But I told you, when we were going to get the marriage license, that we could …” I trail off, letting her fill in the blanks with her imagination.

“Be friends with benefits.” She grabs my arm as my fingers creep beneath the hem of her shorts, closing her eyes briefly before she focuses on me. “And I’m not into that.”

I can’t help the suggestive grin that takes over my face. “Don’t knock it till you try it.”

She wrinkles her nose, her grip tightening on my arm. “Be serious, Tristan.”

I bite back a smile. I prefer this Evie to the self-pitying one for sure. “You don’t want to catch feelings. But it’s too late because it sounds like you’ve had them for a while.” I hover over her for a second before brushing my lips over hers. Gazing into her eyes, I see everything she’s tried to hide from me bloom in full color. Dipping down, I give her another whisper of a kiss, catching my teeth on her bottom lip as I pull away.

She draws a shaky breath when I reach her panties. “Tristan,” she whispers, her throat working as she swallows.

I run my knuckles over the warm center of her, touching her softly on the outside as we look at each other. When her breathing stutters and her eyes start to go glassy, I slip beneath the fabric and kiss her again, slowly circling my tongue around the inside of her mouth as my fingers circle the entrance to her pussy.

With a small moan, she gives in, sliding her fingers into my hair.

“I’m not going to hurt you.” I keep my touch surface level, rubbing up and down her soft, wet slit with my fingers. “Quite the opposite, in fact. I’m gonna make you feel so good you’re going to wish you’d told the truth a lot sooner.”

Her eyelids flutter shut, her mouth dropping into a perfect O. Desire burns through me like a hot, consuming fire and I lick into her mouth again, sucking her tongue and swallowing all the little sounds she’s making. When my thumb sweeps her clit, her hips jerk, moving to meet my hand. Sensing that she’s close, I touch her a little harder, and she kisses me hungrily, grabbing at my hair as she comes. Her roughness, her responsiveness—shit, I’m so hard it hurts. I’m not even inside her, but she’s pulling me in like a riptide.

“You still want to keep this platonic?” I whisper, kissing her ear. “Because I don’t.”

“I don’t know what I want,” she says after a moment, her voice shaky. She releases me from her death-grip, her arms lax around me. “And I don’t know what you want from me. From this.”

No more teasing, then. Dropping a kiss onto her throat, I pull my hand out of her shorts and bring her up so she’s sitting across from me. Post-orgasm Evie is a stunner, with her rosy cheeks and swollen lips.

“I want you to be honest with me, for one thing,” I say. “Even when it’s hard. I promise I’ll do the same.”

She nods haltingly, her eyes watchful like she’s waiting for the other shoe to drop.

“I also want to see if you blush all over.”

She bites down on her lip, trying not to smile.

“I wanna know if you used to have dirty dreams about me, and if you did, I wanna act them out,” I add, smirking.

“God,” she says with a pained laugh, covering her face.

I release her hair from its messy, grass-studded bun, watching it fall around her shoulders. “We’re already married, Evie,” I say, leaning in to kiss her again. “We might as well have fun.

About Rochelle Allison

Born and raised on the sunny beaches of the US Virgin Islands, Rochelle Allison has been living in her imagination since she was a little girl. Nowadays, Rochelle lives just outside of Atlanta with her one true love and their kids. When she’s not making up stories, she can be found reading, hiking, swimming, playing Wordle or taking pictures. She can almost always be found with a book…and chocolate.

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Release Tour ~ Bridesmaid to Bride ~ by ~ Terra Weiss

A pact between best friends and one stress-relieving tryst that turns into two…three…whatever. It’s a wedding—who’s counting? I don’t want it to end, but I’m supposed to land the powerful New York attorney hand-selected by my father. I think I’m in love with the wrong guy. Sweet mother—now what? Readers who enjoy reads with golden retriever heroes will love Bridesmaid to Bride by Terra Weiss, a steamy, friends to lovers, forbidden romance, romantic comedy.

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So one tiny tryst with your BFF turns into two…three…whatever.

It’s a wedding—who’s counting?

It’s my twin sister’s live, televised circus…I mean wedding, and my BFF, West Quinn and I make a pact: I help him become next season’s reality dating TV star, and he helps me land the rich, powerful, and connected suit my father’s hand-selected.

Easy, right?

Actually, it is. West and I make a great team, as always—he’a a brilliant techie with an off-the-wall sense of humor. We sneak away for one tiny stress-relieving tryst…that turns into two…that turns into a craze. Hello, mind-blowing!

But it’s all in good fun. Dad would have a second heart attack if I ended up with West and not the New York attorney poised to join me in taking over my family’s firm.

Ugh—I don’t want this pact to end, and it’s not just about the help. West accepts me. Is always there for me. Encourages me to follow my passion for baking.

Oh, God. I think I’m in love with the wrong guy! It’s too late, not to mention that West and I can never happen.

Sweet mother—now what?

*Bridesmaid to Bride is a witty, heartfelt interconnected stand-alone romcom with adult language and steamy, open-door chemistry that will have you rooting for a happily-ever-after.

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Excerpt

I head past the bathrooms and up the stairs, finding Eva on the top deck of the yacht, the ocean breeze playing with her dark curls. She’s staring out at the vast water, her arms wrapped around herself like she’s holding in the world’s weight.

“Hey,” I say softly, coming to stand beside her.

“Hey.” She doesn’t look at me. “You didn’t have to come.”

“I know.” My mind flips through the Rolodex of Eva’s favorite topics, and when I land on one, my eyes move skyward when I say, “You might know this, but it takes millions of years for a star’s light to reach our eyes. Gazing at the night sky is like looking really far back in time.”

“I didn’t know that, actually.” Her gaze drifts up. “So, what we’re admiring is the ghosts of stars?”

“Exactly.”

“The universe’s time capsule,” we say in unison. Then we both call out, “Jinx,” and then, “Double jinx,” at the same time. When that happens, which it does often, Eva gets to punch my shoulder, not too hard, which she does.

I pretend it hurts more than it does, grabbing my shoulder and stepping back, and she busts up. I don’t know why, but this always makes her laugh.

Then her face turns serious as she looks back up at the sky. “Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?” She sighs. “Okay, I’ve got one. The sun is the closest star to Earth, but do you know how long it’d take for us to travel there by plane?”

“Long enough to need some serious in-flight entertainment.”

She smiles, a twinkle appearing in her eyes. “Definitely.”

We stare above, and everything quiets except the lap of ocean waves and the hum of the yacht’s motor. I know the answer, but that’s no fun. So I finally say, “Five years?”

“Close. Try nineteen years.”

I make my eyes go wide. “Nineteen? Seriously?”

She playfully smacks my shoulder. “You knew the answer.”

“Caught me.” I smile adoringly at her. I should know I can’t pull stuff like that with her.

I catch a glimpse of a dark spot in the ocean that looks like a portal to another world. “Makes you appreciate those same-day Amazon deliveries, huh?”

“Totally.” She bumps into my side playfully. “But imagine the frequent flier miles.”

We stand, catching our breath, and her eyes move over the water.

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About Terra Weiss

Terra Weiss is a romcom author with a knack for witty banter and gift for capturing authentic family dynamics. Readers love how her stories steer away from typical romcom cookie-cutter formulas and show how real-life people find real-life love.

When Terra’s not spilling the tea on what happens in the big and small towns that live in her heart, you’ll find her with her spunky daughter, mad scientist husband, wacky and wonderful mother, and the two six-pound dogs that run her house. She enjoys jogging at a snail’s pace, reading from her iPhone, and piling bright orange mountains of squeezy cheese on her crackers.

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Release Tour ~ Rebound ~ by ~ Evelyn Sola

Layla Jackson wasn’t looking for love or marriage, especially not with notorious playboy and single dad, Seth Wakowski. But when people in Seth’s life tell him it’s time he settle down and clean up his act, there’s only one person Seth can think of for the job. Can Seth win Layla over and prove there’s more to him than meets the eye? Readers who enjoy marriage-of-convenience romances will devour Rebound by Evelyn Sola, a steamy diverse romance.

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Catching feelings in a marriage of convenience is REALLY inconvenient.

Layla Jackson isn’t looking for marriage or her own happily ever after. At least not at this point in her life and especially not with notorious playboy and single dad, Seth Wakowski.

He may be a baller on the court, but off- he’s immature and the total opposite of the kind of guy she would ever want to be involved with.

Seth’s baby girl? Now that’s a totally different story. Layla and Jasmine adore each other.

But when people in Seth’s life tell him it’s time he settle down and clean up his act, there’s only one person he can think of for the job.

If only he can show her there’s more to him than meets the eye.

Despite her judgmental attitude toward Seth, she can’t deny the electrical charge each time their eyes lock. Or the desire that runs through her each time they touch.

Can Seth win Layla over and prove that their marriage won’t be just another rebound? He knows he’s playing for keeps, but will he be able to convince her of that?

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Excerpt

He follows me while I busy myself fluffing the pillows on the couch.

“Marriage is serious. It shouldn’t be treated as a transaction,” I admonish.

“Everything is a transaction, Layla. Look at me,” he orders, but I don’t move. “Come on.” He takes my shoulders and turns me to look at him again. “I have money, and you need it to help your grandma. You have something I want.” I gasp at his crassness. “Not that,” he chuckles. “We can help each other. My daughter likes you, and I want to give her the kind of family I never had.”

I break away from his touch, but I don’t move away. “That’s not how marriage is supposed to work. And I’m only twenty-two. I’m not ready to raise a child.” Then I try to shove him, only he doesn’t budge.

“A marriage works however we want it to work. Come on. Let’s sit down and figure it out.” He pulls out a chair for me at the table. Like a zombie, I sit.

“You’re a whore,” I say. “I’m not going to ever be with someone who sleeps with everybody. Community dick is not my goal. Am I supposed to sit at home caring for your child while you’re out having orgies with fangirls? And what about your away games? Who knows what you’ll get into on the road.”

He sits down across from me but pulls his chair as close to me as possible without touching me.

“The thing is, I’m not a whore.”

“You have a reputation for sleeping with anyone and anything. Women have come out and said they’ve had threesomes or orgies with you.” I look around and whisper, “Jasmine is here only because of some rando you took to your hotel room. You slept with her nanny for goodness sake.”

“All of that is true except for the nanny. She got in my bed and took that picture. I never touched her, and I never wanted to.”

I twist my mouth, not believing a word he just said.

“The other things you said are true, but I’m not a whore. I never lied to anyone. I never made promises. Everyone I was with knew it was only for a night or two and that nothing would come of it. I never mistreated or took advantage of anyone. I had sex with people who wanted to have sex with me. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

“So, you’re community dick but honest about it? Are you going to tell me every time you cheat on me? That is not appealing.” I try to stand but he’s too close for me to move. “Unlike you, I’m looking for a relationship with someone who cares about me. I’m looking for love, not some quid pro quo arrangement.”

“I never cheated on anyone because I’ve never been in a relationship. I won’t cheat on you. I promise,” he says.

That takes the wind out of my sails. I look into his green eyes, and he’s not smirking. He’s not even smiling. I look away.

“You won’t cheat on me? Does that mean you expect us to—” The word gets stuck in my throat, “fuck?”

“We’ll be married. A real marriage because I get horny.”

“Eww,” I say.

“What? You don’t get horny?”

“That is none of your business,” I say with my nose in the air.

“You help me raise Jasmine. It was hard last season. Each time I left her, she had a meltdown. Sometimes I’m gone for days or a week. I have no family to help me. I’m all alone.” Part of me feels for him. Alone is one thing I’ve never been. I’ve had both parents, Donna, and my grandma. Not to mention June Bug is always in my business. I have about a dozen other cousins, friends, and extended family members. I can’t imagine being in his shoes. If I was a single mother, I’d have a village to help me.

But he’s not your problem. He’s not your friend or your family.

“You don’t even like me,” I remind him.

“Yes, I do. You’re very pretty. You’re smart and hardworking. You’re good to my daughter, and you have a nice ass. You’re the one who has always had a problem with me. And you’re nice to everyone but me.”

“None of those reasons are enough for us to get married, and stop looking at my ass before I give you a black eye.”

About Evelyn Sola

A Boston native, wife, mother, and wine enthusiast. If she’s not writing, thinking about writing, you will find Evelyn with a book in her hands. While a new publisher, she’s been writing for years, and she will continue to write for many years to come.

Evelyn is obsessed with assertive and confident men who will stop at nothing to get their woman. Her stories are filled with love, passion, and humor.

She currently lives in Chicago, IL with her husband and two daughters.

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Release Tour ~ Love Is Ale You Need ~ by ~ Gia Stevens

After becoming a single mom, I vowed never to date a guy in a suit again until the charismatic and charming, Trey Wilson entered my life. I put him in the friend zone instantly, however, the more time we spend together, the more the lines between friends and benefits blur. I know I should end things before we get too deep, but when the white stick shows two pink lines, my world is once again turned upside down. Fans of Meghan Quinn and Tessa Bailey will devour Love Is Ale You Need by Gia Stevens, a steamy friends-to-lovers, surprise pregnancy, romance.

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Amazon → https://amzn.to/3tfypC6

Apple Books → https://bit.ly/3RhBuvt

Kobo → https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/love-is-ale-you-need

Barnes & Noble → https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1144028259

A steamy friends with benefits, surprise pregnancy standalone novel by romantic comedy author Gia Stevens…

We went from fling to friend-zone. Now I have to tell him he’s going to be a dad.

After my ex-husband left, I became a single mom and vowed never to date a guy in a suit again.

Then Trey Wilson entered my life. The guy who lives in suits. He’s charismatic, good-looking, and charming AF.

Everything that can make any woman swoon, including me.

What started as a one-night fling turned into a mid-morning office quickie, followed by an afternoon rendezvous in my kitchen. Which ultimately led to the purchase of a new table.

After I told him we can only be friends, he’s determined to be my best friend. The more time we spend together, the boundary between friends and benefits blur.

Deep down, I know he’s exactly like the others. Once they get what they want, they’re out the door, leaving me to pick up the pieces of my broken heart. Been there. Done that. And I have a daughter to prove it.

So the moment emotions get involved, I quickly suppress them and do what I know is right.

I end whatever this is.

Except now I can’t do that when the white stick shows two pink lines.

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Excerpt

I peer up at him. “Are benefits still on the table?”

He turns toward me. The pad of his thumb caresses the apple of my cheek. His hand continues to glide across my skin until his fingers thread through my hair. His large palm warms my cheek. “No.”

My stomach falls. It was inevitable this would have to end, but I was hoping it wasn’t tonight.

With his other hand he grips my chin, forcing me to meet his gaze. “I don’t want benefits. You’re worth more than just benefits. But I’ll take whatever you give me.”

A slow smile spreads over my lips. “Can we go to your house?”

“Absolutely.”

He opens the passenger door and I slide in. While he rounds the hood, I click my seatbelt into place. We’ve had sex before, but the butterflies are fluttering faster this time. Maybe because it’s not a spontaneous, spur of the moment thing. Instead, I have the entire drive to his house to think about it. Trey climbs in and starts his SUV. He glances over at me while reaching his hand over the center console and intertwining his fingers with mine. It’s the simplest gesture, but one that calms my erratic heartbeat.

The short ride to his house is silent, but the way his thumb brushes over the back of my hand says everything I need to know right now. I want Trey.

His neighborhood is a far cry from my tiny apartment complex. Enormous houses with even bigger lawns line the streets. A pang of guilt hits me as this is something I’ll never be able to give Abby. A neighborhood filled with other kids to run around and play with. Or a backyard to build a fort or play kickball in.

As we approach a navy blue split-level house, he turns left and pulls into the sunken attached garage. I yank myself out of my thoughts. No pity parties tonight. There’s only room for one party, and that’s between my legs.

The garage door closes, and we both step out, but before we reach the door to the house, my heels that I never put back on slip from my fingers, dropping to the floor with a clatter. Trey twists around and I throw myself into his arms, slamming my lips to his. Without breaking our connection, he twists us around and cages me against the front fender. A shiver runs down my spine as he threads his fingers through my hair, cupping my head as he deepens the kiss. I wrap my arms around his waist and tug him to me, wanting to feel all of him. A low moan escapes his throat.

He pulls away, but his lips linger on mine. “Did I tell you this is the best friendship I’ve ever had?”

About Gia Stevens

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