TBR Book Blog

New Release ~ Friend Zoned ~ by ~ Evelyn Sola

Fresh off of a messy divorce, Jeannie Dubois isn’t looking for anything more than friendship, and Aiden Walsh is more than happy to fill that role. But when these two friends become lovers, things quickly turn complicated. Can Aiden prove to Jeannie that they’re meant to be more than friends or will she send him back to the friend zone? Readers who enjoy spicy romances will devour Friend Zoned by Evelyn Sola, a steamy friends-to-lovers romance.

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A self-proclaimed bachelor, content on his own. A runaway bride, searching for her freedom.

They may seem like they’ve got nothing in common, but the tiniest sparks make the biggest flames.

Delaney Lewis is desperate for her freedom. From her controlling mother and the man she left standing at the altar.

Her best friend is more than happy to help her escape and sets Delaney up at her soon to be brother-in-law’s house while he’s out of town, confident that when David comes home—he’ll do whatever it takes to keep Delaney safe from her crazy family.

David Sutton finds the surprise of a lifetime when he discovers a woman sleeping soundly in his bed. When she explains how she ended up there, David’s heart and mind slowly open, leading to a permanent place to stay, a job, and best of all, a new outlook.

The woman who was much like a stranger before, slowly becomes his friend…with a few intimate perks and before they know it, real sparks start to fly.

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Excerpt

“Jeannie,” Vickie, the bride, says. She’s so beautiful with the happy newly married glow. “Have you met Colt’s coach, Aiden?”
Shocked by the question, I look around the room and hope my mother will come save me, but she’s too busy talking and laughing to bother noticing me. I clear my throat and offer him my hand. His large palm practically envelops it. When he lifts my knuckles to his lips and kisses them, I almost combust into flames. It’s been almost two years since I felt a man’s lips on any part of me. That must be why my body is short circuiting right now. But if I have a few more drinks, I’m going to drag him into a dark corner and have my way with him. I clear my throat and yank my hand away.
“So, you ah, coach football?” I ask, unsure of what else I could possibly ask. I try to think of any information my mother has given me. She says Mr. Colt is a football player. Vickie giggles and Colt groans.
“Basketball,” Aiden corrects.
“Are you sure?” I ask. “My mom said you’re a football player,” I say to Colt.
Vickie tries to hide her laugh but fails.
“I’m going to have a talk with Myra,” Colt says, but he’s being playful, so I’m not completely mortified by my faux pas.
“Yeah, and I’m pretty sure I coach basketball, not football,” Aidan says.
“Oh.” I wave my hand. “I don’t watch either.” I turn back to my chair, certain that they think I’m an idiot and will leave me alone now.
“More of a reader, I see,” Aiden responds. “What book has you so engrossed?”
My eyes dart to the table in search of my book. I thank a higher power that it’s safely inside my purse. No need to let these newlyweds and the sexy one know that my life is a train wreck. “Nothing you would find particularly interesting.” I clear my throat, but when I turn to look at Aiden, he’s looking directly at me.
“Try me,” he says. I take a step toward the table, grab my purse and shove it under my chair. No way in hell he’ll see this book.

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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New Release ~ Friend Zoned ~ by ~ Evelyn Sola

Blurb

They say the best things come when you least expect it.

Burned by her ex-husband and a messy divorce, Jeannie Dubois isn’t looking for anything more than a good friend. Besides, she’s still dealing with the ex-husband who can’t seem to let her go.

Insert NBA coach, Aiden Walsh. Sure, he wants so much more than friendship with the beautiful woman he met at a wedding, but he’s sure he can play the part and he’s good at biding his time. So, for now, he’ll fill any role she wants.

But when these two friends become lovers, things quickly turn complicated when Jeannie finds out Aiden is so much more than just Manhattan’s favorite coach.

Can Aiden prove to Jeannie that they’re meant to be so much more, or will she send him back to the friend zone?

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Excerpt

The moment I get inside the mansion, I’m greeted by a server holding a tray of drinks. There are several different cocktails, but I grab a glass of red wine and move further into the home, noticing the white chairs set out for the wedding in the formal living room. I take off my coat, and someone takes it, handing me a ticket to retrieve it later. I look around and spot the mother and daughter. They’re on the other side of the room, and Jeannie is helping her mother with her coat before shrugging off her own.

I was right. She’s tall and lean, with nice hips, a firm ass, and a perfect set of breasts. That’s a woman’s body. She’s wearing a black shirt under a black blazer and a black skirt that reaches her knees. Her legs are visibly toned under thick black stockings and she’s wearing ballet flats that don’t seem to go with the outfit. Someone is making a statement that she’s here under protest.

The outfit can’t be described as anything other than plain and matronly, but on her body, it’s sexy as sin. Especially the bottom half with her hips and ass that sit in the skirt just right. My eyes travel up and land on her breasts. I was right. They’re perfect. Not too big or too small. Perfect to fit in the palm of my hand. She looks up at the exact moment that I lick my lips, and our eyes lock. It’s brief, but something in the room sizzles, and I feel my heart rate pick up for the first time in years. At least outside of a workout.

She looks away, and the moment is lost. Even from a distance, I can tell she’s clearing her throat and doing her best to appear comfortable. A server comes by, and she grabs a colorful cocktail. She takes a sip and must approve because her full lips curl into a small smile until her mother swipes the drink from her and drinks it.

She puts a finger in Jeannie’s face and waves it. “You have to drive me. No drinking.” Jeannie flags down the server and grabs another. “That won’t be for hours. If I have to be here, I’m drinking. Don’t make me fight you again.” She makes a fist, and so does her mother. They knock them together once. “Keep it up and you’ll be taking the bus home,” Jeannie warns.

Her mother waves her off. “I have work to do. I’m going to find you a nice, young man.” She leans closer to Jeannie’s ear, and I take a few steps toward them so I can hear. “Mr. Colt knows a lot of young black men. Did I mention they are rich?” she adds again.

Jeannie looks around and rolls her eyes. “Well, then go do the Lord’s work, Mom.”

“I have to because you’ve given up.” Her mom grabs another drink from a server and says, “I’m having so much fun.”
The older woman limps away, and Jeannie seems to exhale in relief at her departure. She looks around and our eyes lock again, but she blushes and breaks the stare much too quickly. She moves to the back row of white chairs and takes a seat. She rummages through her purse, and I expect her to pull out her phone, but she surprises me. She pulls out a book. I can’t see the title or cover from here, but my interest is piqued yet again. She opens it, flips through a few pages, and looks down. I know the exact moment when she tunes everything out and focuses on the words in her book, and I make it my mission to find out what she’s reading before she leaves here tonight.

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About Evelyn Sola

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.

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR

New Release ~ Gingerbread Man ~ by ~ Karla Doyle

Honey Golding is the sweetest little thing Cal has ever laid eyes on. His much-younger new employee is off-limits, but his sweet tooth might overrule his common sense… and his willpower. Readers who love a side of laughter with their romance will enjoy Gingerbread Man by Karla Doyle, a steamy, small town, grumpy/sunshine, boss/employee, age gap romance.

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A town that celebrates Christmas year-round is the perfect place for a newly divorced, six-foot-four ginger-haired baker to open his new business, The Ginger Bread Man. Too bad he doesn’t share the community’s love of everything ho-ho-ho. Fake it until you make it, right? Or hire someone who has enough holiday spirit that nobody notices your lack thereof. Enter Honey Golding, the sweetest little thing Cal has ever laid eyes on. His much-younger new employee is off-limits, but his sweet tooth might overrule his common sense… and his willpower.

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Excerpt

“Your hours say you’re open until six,” the brunette says when I unlock and open the door. “So I thought I had plenty of time to catch you.” “I close when everything’s sold.” Little Miss Sunshine doesn’t flinch at my grumpy tone. She just stares up at me with the prettiest green eyes I’ve ever seen. “You don’t have anything left to sell? By quarter after four?” “No.” An apology would be appropriate here, I know. Not my style. Hence why I need a customer service elf. “Come by in the morning if you don’t want to be disappointed.” Shit, even I can do better than that. I huff a miserable-sounding sigh. “I tell you what—I’ll put something aside for you, and you can pick it up whenever you get here. The door will probably be locked, but I’ll wait for you. Best I can do. So. What were you hoping to get today?” “A job.” No tapping on the glass this time. She pushes past me to reach in and pull my makeshift sign from the inside of the window, then hands it to me. “This job. You won’t find anyone better. What time should I be here tomorrow?” I grunt a laugh. Even smile a little. She’s spunky, confident, and yeah, very easy on the eyes. Too easy, considering she’s gotta be in her early-twenties, and I’m knocking on forty’s door. My attraction is irrelevant. She’s applying for a job, not a date. Right now, she’s my top candidate, simply because of her personality. But this is my business, and despite feeling like the stupidest man alive for being blindsided back in Cali, I’m not foolish enough to hire anyone on impulse. Not even the irresistible brunette. “Got a resume?” I hook a nod toward the cash counter. “I’ll add it to the pile and look it over later.” When she’s not standing in my personal space, looking and smelling like a sweet treat I could sink into. My second head doesn’t get to do the hiring. She breaks eye contact only long enough to pull a sheet of sunshiny-yellow paper from her bag. Despite my comment about reviewing it later, I scan the page after she hands it to me. “No bakery experience,” I say, pointing out the only fault I find. Her genuine smile doesn’t waver, not even for a moment. “Don’t worry. I’ll have your buns and baguettes figured out in no time.” If she knew how much my baguette liked the sound of that, she’d snatch her application from my hand and never come back. “I’ll be in touch—” I glance at the paper again, as if I didn’t already have her name and number committed to memory. “Ms. Golding.” “It’s Miss, and call me Honey.” Another grunted laugh slips out. “Hoping to sweeten me up so I give you the job, Miss Golding?” “I always put Honora on formal or professional documents, but everyone in town calls me Honey.” Shit. I’ve got big feet and an even bigger mouth to shove them in. She raises one eyebrow over eyes the color of moss and shiny as sea glass. “Don’t worry, boss, I’m not offended. What time should I be here in the morning?” “I haven’t offered you the job.” A smile forces its way past my resting grump face as I accept the hand she extended, awareness rising to riotous levels throughout my body the instant we make skin-to-skin contact. “You will,” she says, holding my hand and my gaze. “I’m exactly what you need.” She’s right. I know it with every cell of my being. Trouble is, I think she’s exactly what I need in more ways than I can have her.

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About Karla Doyle

After studying fashion design in college, Karla worked in the clothing industry for over two decades. In 2011, she caught the writing bug, received a scholarship to attend the Romance Writers of America conference in New York City, and hasn’t looked back. A small-town girl with some big-city experience, Karla resides in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, with her husband and two young-adult kids. When she’s not writing the sexy stories swirling around in her head, you can find her spending time with family, playing online Scrabble, or cuddled up with a romance novel and her beloved pets. Karla loves interacting with readers. Connect with her online or send her an email. She’d love to hear from you!

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New Release ~ Handfast ~ by ~ Tricia T. LaRochelle

Three years after their freshman year from hell, Sara not only graduates from college, but her relationship with Scott is stronger than ever. Just when she thinks the craziness from her past is over, a mysterious stranger shows up, knocking her world off its axis. Will this man prove to be another devastating blow to her already complicated life? Readers who love Tattered Stars by Catherine Cowles will enjoy Revive by Tricia T. LaRochelle, a new adult romantic suspense.

“LaRochelle writes like a pro and delivers a profoundly entertaining romance story with genuinely flawed characters and a deftly handled plot with explosive moments.” —The Book Commentary

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Blurb:

Three years after her freshman year from hell, Sara graduates college a stronger and more well-balanced woman. Her relationship with Scott is strong, their future together bright. If only her parents could be there to join in the celebration.

Just when she thinks the craziness of the past is finally over—and for good—a mysterious stranger shows up at her graduation, turning Sara’s world upside down. This man may just be the answer to her prayers or another devastating blow to her already traumatic life.

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Excerpt

I’d never seen Scott so nervous. I’d seen him upset, angry, worried, and shocked—heck, I’d even seen him depressed—but never nervous. Not fun nervous, anyway.

He sucked in a breath and began. “Before I met you, I had no idea what being in love was like. I thought I knew, but I didn’t have a clue. Being with you has taught me so much these past few years. Not only are you the most gorgeous creature I have ever laid eyes on …” He smirked, his eyes dancing with erotic thoughts, something I saw whenever he was “in the mood,” which was pretty much all the time. “And sexy as hell, but you are braver than anyone I’ve ever known.” A shadow fell over his face. “On top of that, and even after all you have been through, you still have the biggest heart. Being with you makes me want to be a better person.” He shook his head and exhaled. “I find myself imagining things that I never thought I’d ever want.”

“Like what?” The words tumbled out of my mouth like a five-year-old with no self-control.
The corners of his luscious lips twitched upward. “Well, for starters … a house … with kids … a dog. The thought of you mothering my children someday makes me believe that dreams can come true.” He looked down for a moment and shook his head again before pinning my gaze with his vibrant blue eyes. “I realize you’re too good for me. And I also know that I don’t deserve you, but fuck if that’s going to stop me from asking you the most important question of my life.” He inched closer, his irises locking me in place, his voice low and imploring. “After we graduate next spring, Sara Browne, will you do me the honor of being my wife?”

My eyes welling with tears, I leaned forward and fell into his big, burly arms, his musky scent welcoming and his lips tapping tiny kisses against my head and cheek. “Of course, I will. I can’t imagine anyone else as my husband or the father of my children. So, yes, yes, yes,” I said, giddy and slightly dizzy from the emotions swirling through my head, my heart, and every cell of my body.

About Tricia T. LaRochelle

Since she was a little girl, Tricia T. LaRochelle has been obsessed with tragic love stories. No beach reads for her. Bring on the grit with a double side of turmoil. She likes to feel the character’s anguish as they fight to overcome obstacles to be together. Growing up in central Vermont, she has seen her share of tragedy but remains a hopeful romantic. She now lives in Central Virginia where she continues to foster the possibilities of how love can conquer all.

Flickering Heart is the first book in the Sara Browne Series. Stay tuned for updates and announcements on Instagram, and Twitter, or sign up for her email list at TriciaLaRochelle.com.

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Cover Reveal ~ Resurgence ~ by ~ Shelby Gunter

Join us for the cover reveal of Resurgence by Shelby Gunter. Readers who love military romance will sink their teeth into this steamy, age gap, romantic suspense. Keep scrolling for more details about this amazing cover.

Title: Resurgence

Author: Shelby Gunter

Release Date: 06/16/2023

Genres: Romantic Suspense

Trope: Age Gap, Military, Emotional Scars/Dark Past

Soldiers of fortune. Hired guns. Mercenaries. We’re the ones who go into enemy territory when no one else will. It’s dangerous, it’s secretive, and we’re good at it. It takes a certain skill set to do my job, and distractions get in the way of doing it well. And meeting Thia Ames has become the biggest distraction of all. But when Thia is put up for auction on the black market, my team is tasked with her protection. She is my mission, and protecting her should be my sole focus. But the shadows that lurk behind her bright smile hint at a dark past that calls to the hero in me. I can’t afford to get involved. Not only am I almost twenty years older than her, but acting on my emotions could very well get us both killed. Her life hangs in the balance. I couldn’t save her before, but this time, I’ll do whatever it takes… or die trying.

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About Shelby Gunter

Shelby is a Romantic Suspense author who loves writing plot twists you’ll never see coming. Shelby and her husband call Kansas City their home base but enjoy traveling as far and as often as possible. She loves all things related to coffee, wine, and books, and it’s rare you will see her without one of those items in hand.

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New Release ~ Morsel Enemies ~ by ~ Alexia Chase

Ava and Miles try to outwit each other as they battle for the same land. Ava’s determined to claim the land for her boss and get out of town, but there’s something charming about the town… and Miles. Readers who enjoy the Man of the Month Club collection will devour Morsel Enemies by Alexia Chase, a steamy, small town, enemies-to-lovers, beach romance.

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Are you ready to meet your next Man of the Month? Chocolate chips, year-round Christmas decorations, crystal-clear waters, and smoldering nights under the stars. What more could you ask for? Ava’s boss, Jax, wants the same land Miles wants, and she’s there to make sure Jax gets it and escape Hell Town, Florida, as fast as she can. Miles loves the land and will stop at nothing to get rid of the interloper. Until Miles and the town charm her. Or is it all a lie? Morsel Enemies from Alexia Chase is a small-town, enemies-to-lovers romance about Candy Cane Key’s favorite Scuba Diving Charter owner and a woman who hates frizzy hair, bugs, and sunshine. Sparks will ignite this National Chocolate Chip Day as these two try to outwit each other. It’s going to be a hell of a ride.

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Excerpt

Who has Christmas all year round? In the Florida Keys? These people need their heads examined. God, it’s hot. I fan the neckline of my top to let in some much-needed coolness, except nothing but sweltering air is swooshing around. From inside my black handbag clutch, my cell phone rings. I let go of the handle for my luggage. Portia. My teeth grind together as I answer, “Yes?” “Did you make it okay?” “Yes. If you call standing in the middle of a machine shed, miles from civilization with my hair frizzing, a mosquito trying to drain me of all my blood, and no way to get to the Lansing Estates, okay.” “About that….” Portia trails off as my armpits break into a sweat, making the silk fabric hug my skin. “What?” “The estate isn’t exactly an estate. The relatives who inherited the land that Jax wants to buy haven’t had anyone living in the house since their father went into a nursing home four years ago.” “Great.” I turn my attention to the grinning receptionist, who’s now alone as the pilot readies the plane to return to the mainland. Go now. Get back on the plane. Stop. It’s just a few days. A week at the most, and you’ll be back in civilization. Robert marches across the cement floor and engulfs the hand of another man. Is that blood? I wrinkle my nose and watch their exchange. The man is tall and tan with dark hair, and while I can’t see his eyes, I’m guessing they’re a startling shade of blue. Because why wouldn’t they be? He might be good-looking, but his clothes are disheveled and filthy. They’re either coated in blood or something worse. I shift away from them. I don’t want to know what that something else is. I spin on my heel as I listen to my sister ramble about the land. The view. The ocean. The wildlife. And every other disgusting thing about the outside. Give me a 5-star restaurant and some upscale shopping, please. “You’re just going to love this town. It’s amazing. I wish I wasn’t bedridden. I’d love to go back there again.” My sister and her husband came to Candy Cane Keys for Christmas, and she apparently came home with a little present, all of her own. My future niece or nephew. “Who has a town with Christmas decorations all year? What’s wrong with these people?” “Excuse me?” A deep baritone voice growls behind me. I twirl around, smacking the good-looking guy in the knee with my luggage. “Shit,” he grunts and jerks backward. “Watch what you’re doing?” His eyes narrow into slits as he eyes me up and down. “Don’t sneak up on people; you won’t get hit.” “Ava, what’s going on?” “Some local bumpkin is yelling at me for hurting him with my luggage when he was the one that smacked into me.” “Say, excuse me.” The man crosses his arms over his chest. And lord, there’s a lot of it. His eyes are a stark blue like the ocean. Just as I expected. I sniff. And he smells like the ocean – salt, beach wood, and rotting fish. I hate the ocean.

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About Alexia Chase

Alexia Chase is a steamy contemporary romance author who specializes in visual stories set in an interconnected world. If you love stepping into a place that feels like home where familiar people, places, and things welcome you with open arms, then you’re in the right place. Ms. Chase pens everything from short stories to novels with heroes from bartenders to billionaires. What can you find between the pages? Heavy doses of snark, sinful fun, smut, and happily ever afters. Come inside. They’re waiting for you. Where can you find Ms. Chase when she’s not writing? Ms. Chase lives in a small community outside of Kansas City, Missouri. She spends her free time with her husband, three children, and two dogs and loves to spin stories in her head. She’s an avid learner and never far from her computer. Just ask her children. They have plenty to say about her excessive computer usage. **** I love short stories, and I love Alexia Chase. **** **** Oh, my I love these short hot and sexy books by Alexia. **** **** Funny, sweet, and steamy. Alexia Chase did an awesome job with this novel. **** **** Ms. Chase has written an engaging, steamy, funny, angst driven, and entertaining. **** **** Sexy, funny, sweet and all the feels. **** Quick. Dirty. Sweet. Alexia Chase

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Cover Reveal ~ Friend Zoned ~ by ~ Evelyn Sola

We are so excited to share the cover reveal of Friend Zoned by Evelyn Sola. Fans who enjoy diverse contemporary romances will sink their teeth into this steamy, friends to lovers romance. Keep scrolling for more details about this sexy cover.

Title: Friend Zoned

Author: Evelyn Sola

Release Date: 06/02/2023

Genres: Contemporary Romance

Page Count: 126,000 words

Trope: Friends to Lovers, Sports Romance

They say the best things come when you least expect it.

Burned by her ex-husband and a messy divorce, Jeannie Dubois isn’t looking for anything more than a good friend. Besides, she’s still dealing with the ex-husband who can’t seem to let her go.

But when these two friends become lovers, things quickly turn complicated when Jeannie finds out Aiden is so much more than just Manhattan’s favorite coach.

Can Aiden prove to Jeannie that they’re meant to be so much more, or will she send him back to the friend zone?

Pre-Order on Amazon

Add to Goodreads Here!

About Evelyn Sola

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.

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR

New Release ~ Sooner or Gator ~ by ~ Mae Harden

Jackson was there on the worst night of Harper’s life, and every day since. He’s everything she wants and needs, but is it worth blowing up their carefully balanced lives? Fans of Pippa Grant, Max Monroe, and Penny Reid will devour Sooner or Gator by Mae Harden, a steamy, small town, friends-to-lovers, roommates-to-lovers, forced proximity, beach romance.

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JACKSON “What do you need?” That night was supposed to change everything… and it did. Just not in the way I had hoped. I was there on the worst night of Harper’s life. The night her world came crashing down, bringing with it the crushing responsibility of raising her own sister when she was still practically a kid herself. For seven years, I’ve been exactly what she asked for. I’ve been biding my time, but nothing stays the same—even on an island where it’s perpetually Christmas—and time is officially up. HARPER “A friend.” The love of my life sleeps ten feet away from me, just on the other side of that wall. He doesn’t know how I feel about him, of course. That would just be crazy. Jackson has always been my rock, which is exactly why he can never know how desperately I want him. Sure, every grin he throws in my direction sets off a storm surge down below and makes my heart race like sandpipers on the beach, but that’s not an excuse to blow up our carefully balanced lives… right?

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Excerpt

I’m on the verge of asking Haley why she bought more wine glasses when we have a perfectly good set in the cabinet, but as she hands me one, I realize they’re only mostly stemless. “You know most people use bottle toppers to save their wine, right?” I laugh, eyeing the stubby stem with its rubber gasket before pushing it into the opening of what is now, quite clearly, a bottle not meant for sharing. Experimentally, I tip it sideways and watch an inch of deep burgundy liquid pool in the bottom of the glass. “Bottle toppers, much like bookmarks, are for quitters,” Haley says with a mischievous grin. “Besides, aren’t you always harping on about how important it is to finish what you start?” She looks extremely proud of herself as she tips back a hearty glug of cheap Cabernet. “But, more importantly, you’re both wrong. Trailer Park Shark is the one with Tara Reid, but it was the douche-canoe developer who flooded the trailer park, and I’m ninety-nine percent sure she’s the S.B.T.S.” “Back up.” Tizzy raises a hand like she’s about to ask the teacher for a bathroom pass. “You know I can’t with your movie shorthand.” “Sole Big Tittied Survivor,” Haley sighs heavily. “Okay, but that’s not exactly a common abbreviation,” Tizzy replies, copying Hayley’s sigh as dramatically as she can possibly manage. Some people have incredible memories for languages or history, but no one can match Haley when it comes to movies that came out decades before she was even born. The windows and doors are open to let in the spring air, and over the cacophony of tree frogs croaking and crickets chirping away outside, I hear car tires crunch on the gravel drive. Craning my neck as far as I dare, I spot a familiar, black jeep. It’s more rust than paint thanks to the salty Florida air, but as its tires come to a halt in their well-worn spots, I can’t help grinning. In the fading light of the orange sky, the profile of my other best friend, Jackson Beauregard, is clearly visible as he climbs out and grabs his things. Tizzy quirks an eyebrow at me as I straighten Haley goes on. “…and the poor-man’s Tommy Lee Jones, a.k.a. Robert Davi did not appear in Trailer Park Shark. He was, however, in the 2011 classic Swamp Shark where he starred opposite a busty blonde played by the O.G. Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and I swear to God, if one of you so much as whispers the name Sarah Michelle Gellar…” My little sister waits for one of us to match her encyclopedic knowledge, but we all know it’s not going to happen. “Kristy Swanson! Come on! Okay, extra credit points: Robert Davi was one of three villains in which beloved 80s adventure movie?” Tizzy and I stare blankly at each other while simultaneously tipping our bottles toward the sky. “The Goonies,” a deep voice supplies from just outside. “Come on, kid. Give us a hard one next time.” Grinning, I tip my head backward over the couch just in time to see Jackson coming through the screen door. “‘Bout time,” I sass. “We were about to start without you.” “No, you weren’t.” Jackson laughs, shaking his head as he drops his keys in the bowl where they always go. He hangs his backpack on its hook and drops onto the couch next to me, making me bounce as all six-and-a-half feet of him bottoms out the springs. “Well… we had considered it.” “What are we watching this week?” Jackson asks, changing the subject with about as much subtlety as a Horatio roller skating down Main Street in his favorite candy cane hot pants. “Swamp Shark,” Haley votes. “Literal flying sharks too much for you tonight?” Jackson chuckles. “Maybe once I’ve polished this off…” Haley replies, raising her wine and its extra classy attachment in a toast. “But Kristy Swanson with a shotgun?” She lets out an exaggerated whistle. “I’m always in the mood for that.” I snort. I can’t help it. “Yeah, who doesn’t love a busty blonde armed to the teeth?” Jackson twists the top off a beer and shrugs dispassionately as he stares down at it. “I could take ‘em or leave ‘em, honestly.” Tizzy leans over, her expression conspiratorial and eyes sparkling with mischief. Oh, fuck. Here we go, I groan inwardly. “And which part of that is uninspiring to you, Jackson? The ‘blonde’ bit or the ‘armed to the teeth’ bit? Because we know you don’t have issues with the ‘busty’ bit.” “Fucking bluetooth speakers,” Jackson mutters, suddenly finding the label of his beer bottle utterly fascinating, but Haley is all ears. “Wait… what happened? What’d I miss?” “Nothing,” I say quickly, feeling my own face burn with embarrassment, even though I was just an innocent bystander in all this. “Jackson forgot to disconnect the living room speakers from his phone last night… didn’t he?” Tizzy tilts her head, locking her eyes on six-and-a-half feet worth of blushing man. Jackson clears his throat and gets to his feet. “Anyone want a glass of water?” Without waiting for an answer, he disappears, no doubt to let Tizzy get this out of her system. “Tizz…” I start.I know what she’s getting at and it’s nothing new. “Come on, Harper. Brunette roommate gets lonely and crawls into bed? You still seriously think that had nothing to do with you?” “Of course, I do.” Admittedly, it would be easier if he was into something less… can porn be wholesome? Tizzy would like everyone to believe Jackson and I are star crossed lovers, destined to fall for each other in some kind of epic love story that spans decades and generations and all of time and space. I think Tizzy needs a new vibrator and a subscription to Passionflix, but I’m only a wimple away from making my vow of celibacy official, so what do I know?

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About Mae Harden

Mae Harden has a thing for spicy books, hilarious meet-cutes, mouthy women, and the kind of men who will pull your hair in bed, but run a bath for you after… if you’ve been a good girl, of course. Smut-com, rom-cum, or whatever you want to call them, Mae likes her books funny, filthy, and full of feels. Mae lives in Virginia with her smokin’ hot husband, two kids who delight in giving out hugs and gray hairs, and a collection of fur babies that probably qualifies her as a zoo keeper. IF she had free time, she’d use it to bake, water the remaining houseplants, and do crafty shit, all while listening to true-crime podcasts.

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Series Spotlight ~ Resurgence ~ by ~ Shelby Gunter

The perfect combination of steamy romance and suspense that will keep you guessing until the very end. The Shadow series is a high-stakes, dark romance series with independent women who can take care of themselves, and strong men who aren’t afraid to let the ladies lead. Fans of Brittney Sahin’s The Stealth Ops Series and Brynne Asher’s The Killers will love The Shadow series by Shelby Gunter, a steamy, action-packed, romantic suspense series.

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Reckoning by Shelby Gunter The Shadow Series: Book 1

Vigilantes. Black widows. Femmes fatales. We’ve gone by many names, but our goal has remained the same: exact justice for those whom the system has failed. Myself included. Except I’m not looking for justice. I’ve sacrificed many things to find the men who murdered the love of my life. Friendships, careers, relationships… all left behind in the name of revenge. That is, until I’m given a second chance at love, and I have to make a choice: Share my secrets with the former Navy SEAL who understands me better than anyone, or continue on my path alone. The thing about my SEAL is, he won’t let me go it alone. And the closer I get to my day of reckoning, the more I’ll need his help to make it out alive.

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Relentless by Shelby Gunter The Shadow Series: Book 2

Programmer. Coder. Hacker. I uncover secrets no one wants me to find. Celebrities, international fugitives, even my neighbors. No one is off limits. All I need is a name and a location, and the dirty things they try to hide will suddenly come to light. My biggest fault? Believing I don’t need help, despite all the evidence to the contrary. And the one person capable of aiding me turns my body to Jell-O. I don’t want to rely on Isaac Hayes to help me solve this puzzle. But the pieces don’t fit together, and we’re running out of time. If I can’t set my pride aside and allow Isaac to help me, the ghosts of my past will take more from me than just my life.

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Resurgence by Shelby Gunter The Shadow Series: Book 3 Cover Reveal: May 19, 2023 Release Date: June 16, 2023

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This was such a bad idea. I shouldn’t have impulsively booked a flight after my talk with R.J. I shouldn’t have told Bittie what I was doing or listened when she emphatically encouraged me to fly to New York. I shouldn’t have gotten her address from the file Isaac sent me when I landed. Let’s just label all the decisions I’ve made in the last twenty-four hours as things I shouldn’t have done. Fuck, I have to go inside. I can’t continue standing outside her building like a creeper, and I also can’t stomach the idea of getting back on a plane without seeing her. Taking a fortifying breath, I walk inside her apartment and start for the elevators. “Excuse me, sir. Can I help you?” I snap my head up, surprised someone is talking to me. “Oh, uh… I’m here to see a friend.” I point at the elevator like an idiot. Obviously, this guy knows how I’m going to get up to Hailey’s apartment. “I’m sorry, sir. Guests aren’t allowed to go up unless they’re with the resident or on an approved list. What’s your name?” Shit. Well, maybe this is a good thing. If she doesn’t want to see me, I won’t have to hear it directly from her or worry about looking stoic while she smashes my heart into a million pieces. God, I’m pathetic. “Dax Pierce. I’m probably not on Hailey’s list, so maybe just call her? She’s not expecting me.” He nods his head and picks up his phone. I tap my fingers against my thigh and adjust my duffle bag over my shoulder. What if she’s not even home? She could be out on a date with some other schmuck who’s falling just as hard for her as I did. No, she’s been texting me constantly since she left. That would be shitty if she went on a date with another guy while she’s been flirting with me. I don’t believe Hailey would do something like that. “Good evening, Miss Adler. I have a Dax Pierce here, who is asking to come up.” He listens for a second before saying, “Okay, I’ll send him up.” Elation has my chest puffing out, and I head directly to the elevator without waiting on the desk guy. I push the up button, but nothing happens, and it’s then I realize I need a key card to work the elevator. Now everything makes sense. The desk guy comes striding up to me, holding a grey key fob that he taps against the pad above the elevator button. The doors open with a ding, and I step in. “Thanks,” I say before I press the number for Hailey’s floor. The desk guy doesn’t respond as he turns around to walk back to his desk. I don’t even care. My excitement is almost palpable at this point. When the elevator opens on her floor, I turn left down the hallway, then take the corner until I see Hailey standing outside her apartment. She looks gorgeous in her gym shorts and cutoff shirt, and the little smirk on her face does something to me. My eyes trace down her legs until they stop on a huge bruise on her thigh that makes me frown. How the hell did that happen?

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About Shelby Gunter

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Release Tour ~ Wed Like Wildfire ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Wedding planner, Cassie Winters can’t wait to find her own happily ever after, and when she meets wedding hater, Theo Abbot, she realizes she’s got her work cut out for her. Theo’s grumpy, set in his ways, and determined to never fall in love again, but the more time they spend together, the more Cassie begins to wonder if she can change Theo’s position on love. Fans of Claire Kingsley and Kaylee Ryan will adore WED LIKE WILDFIRE by Lauren Helms, a steamy, grumpy sunshine romance.

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Once upon a time, there was a grumpy CEO who met a wedding planner who never stopped smiling…

Cassie
You could say that I live and breathe weddings and love, and as a wedding planner, a happily ever after is the main event. So when I learn that Theo Abbot absolutely hates weddings, that should be my clue to run for the hills as fast as my sexy little black stilettos will take me.

But I digress.

I’m on the hunt for my own epic love story, one T-Swift herself could write a song about. Which means unavailable and seemingly uninterested CEOs are off limits. Even if the man oozes sex appeal and his grumpiness turns me to mush.

A little flirting never hurt anyone.

Theo
Cassie Winters shines so bright I need a pair of Ray-bans to look directly at her. Problem is, once I’ve set my eyes on her, I can’t seem to look away. The woman is a walking, talking promotion for all things love and happiness.

Hand me an antacid.

Counting, on one hand, the amount of times I’ve failed in my life, leaves me knowing I won’t ever do “love” again. I’m set in my ways and not even this sexy little spitfire could sweet talk me out of my decision to never get married.

Yet it only took one drink to derail that plan.

But, things aren’t always as they seem and when real life gets in the way of this fairy tale, we’re both forced to take a hard look at what we truly want.

Are we both ready to wed or is this a wildfire that’s about to burn out?

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Excerpt

I hear my sister and Mateo agree with her, and the woman continues.

“I mean, just look at the stage. It features more than fifty hand-painted scenic backdrops. It’s just absolutely remarkable.”

Despite the fact that I could get lost in this woman’s voice, I don’t appreciate that she barking up the wrong tree trying to sell this space to my sister.

I come to a stop behind the three of them, my attendance going unnoticed. I resist the urge to clap for her performance, but interrupt her words with my own instead.

“Well done, sounds like you could sell religion to the damn Pope.” Harsh, but I don’t like when people think they can take advantage of us just because we have money.

Both my sister and the woman startle. Mateo snorts. I glance at Nora and the glare I’m getting could cut ice, but I’ve survived the look before. I nod a hello at Mateo before sliding my gaze to the best damn saleswoman in the world.

Taking in the woman standing in front of me, no goddamn joke, my heart skips a fucking beat. I draw my hand out of my pocket and slowly rub my chest absentmindedly.

The woman is utterly exquisite. Her soft blond hair is braided in a way that is messy but perfectly styled and falls over her shoulder with strands of soft gold framing her face. A face that at first glance looks flawless. I’m unable to continue my perusal as I’m stopped in my tracks by two sparkling blue eyes staring back at me. Taking in all of her, I see that the smirk she wears tells me she’s not about to let me get away with what I’ve just said.

“No doubt you are correct, Mr. Abbot. However, I wouldn’t attempt something so outrageous.” Her eyes gleam. “I was just telling Nora and Mateo some very well-known facts about this beautiful cathedral.” She glances up and waves her hand around as if to encompass the whole space.

“Theo, this is Cassie Winters, our wedding planner. It’s nice of you to join us,” Nora bites out in a pleasantly terse tone. She walks up to me and kisses my cheek. As she pulls away, she whispers, “Be nice.”

I ignore her and focus on the wedding planner. Cassie.

“Well, I’m just confused as to why we are even here, Ms. Winters. Or is it Mrs.?” I ask.

She doesn’t miss a beat. “Ms. Thank you. And we are here because the couple getting married”—she gestures to Nora and Mateo—“wanted a tour.” Her tone straddles the line of condescending and courteous. And it’s sexy as fuck.

Nora punches me lightly in the side, typical sister shit. “Yes, I asked if we could check out the cathedral as well as some other places. We’ve already ruled some out due to availability, but this place has an opening twelve months from now,” she informs me as she walks back over to Mateo, lacing her fingers through his. His eyes flash as he looks down at her.

“I thought you didn’t want to wait a year,” I say, my eyes darting back at Cassie. She stands there, smiling with fucking stars in her eyes at Nora and Mateo.

“True, but places book up quickly, and I wasted too much time floundering before hiring Cassie,” Nora says.

I nod. Makes sense. I take a second to look around this place. I want to vomit, it’s so extra. We may have grown up with silver spoons in our mouths, but we didn’t grow up around such fancy-ass stuff such as weddings in the Scottish Rite Cathedral.

“Why the grumpy face?” Cassie’s beautiful voice breaks me out of my stupor.

“Oh, no, that’s his normal face,” Nora tells her.

“I don’t understand why you picked this place. It’s a church…”

“Are you not religious, Mr. Abbot?” Cassie interrupts.

“I’m not sure why that matters to you,” I snap.

Her eyes widen a tad at the venom in my tone. “You said it’s a church.”

“You didn’t let me finish, Ms. Winters. I was saying, it’s a church that was built in the ’20s and this place fits, like what? Twelve hundred people? Do you even know that many people, Nora?” I stuff my hands in my pockets out of frustration.

“No,” Nora offers shakily.

“Mr. Abbot, the theater space is only one of the locations available for a ceremony. This was our first stop. I wanted them to get the full tour,” Cassie says and I so badly want to ask her to call me Theo, but I don’t know if I’ll like the way she says my name more than the way she calls me Mr. Abbot.

I grunt, not having time for this argument. “Okay, then let’s look at a more accommodating space.”

“You know what, I think this place has lost its magic for me,” Nora grumbles. “Let’s check out that last place on my list. I know Theo has a busy schedule.”

“If you are sure, we can head over to INDUSTRY then,” Cassie says as she follows Nora and Mateo toward the exit.

I’m not into games. I’m not going to ask Nora if she’s sure or apologize for raining on her parade with this place. It’s not a good fit for her. She knows it. I know it. And this ridiculous wedding planner needs to learn it if she wants to keep my sister as a client.

Cassie walks by me, her shoulder nearly brushing mine, and my senses are immediately taken over by a soft smell of amber and vanilla.

“I’m so happy that you were able to join us today,” she says softly. I look down at her. She’s a few inches shorter, and the sparkle in her eyes is mischievous.

Clenching my jaw, I don’t reply as she walks on by, but the urge to wrap my hand around her arm and pull her back to me is strong.

I think what gets under my skin the most is that she has yet to drop the smile this whole time. Is it stuck on her face? Is this a Botox gone wrong? She doesn’t look like the type of woman to be obsessed with Botox, but what the fuck do I know?

I close my eyes for a minute to gain my wits.

One, two, three…

About Lauren Helms

Lauren Helms is a romance author her nerdy and flirty contemporary words. Lauren has forever been an avid reader from the beginning. After starting a book review website, that catapulted her fully into the book world, she knew that something was missing. While working for a video game strategy guide publisher, she decided to mix what she knew best–video games and romance. She decided to take the plunge and write her first novel, Level Me Up. Several published novels later, Lauren created a PR company, Indie Pen PR, to help other authors promote their books.

Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three young kid nerds who will hopefully grow up to share the love of things that united Lauren and her husband on their own happily ever after.

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