Lauren Helms – TBR Book Blog

Release Tour ~ Twist of Date ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Layla James has always been in the business of love and never mixes business with pleasure, but when Cole Reed walks back into her life, she’s left questioning everything. Can this blast from the past convenience Layla to set her rules aside and take a chance on love? Fans of secret fling romances will love TWIST OF DATE by Lauren Helms, a steamy matchmaker romance.

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Once upon a time, there was a charming restaurant owner and an unsuspecting matchmaker who refused to mix business with pleasure…

Layla
I’ve always been in the business of love. Happily Ever After, Inc. has thrived under my leadership and the hard set of rules that I set for myself. But when a never quite forgotten blast from my past walks into my life, I’m suddenly questioning everything and everyone around me.

Cole Reed is everything I want in a man – handsome, successful, and charming.

There’s just one small hiccup…Cole is Happily Ever After’s latest client, and he’s got his sights on me.

Cole
I’m used to getting what I want and I’ve never left a date unhappy. So when my grandmother insists I need to work with a matchmaker…her lifelong best friend at that…I’m skeptical. Especially when my path crosses with the girl that always seemed to get away.

She’s sexy, smart, and determined – everything I’ve always admired about her. And this time, I refuse to let her get away.

There’s just one small problem…Layla James is my so-called matchmaker’s granddaughter – and the owner of the matchmaking company that’s just taken me on.

It feels like a weird twist of date that’s put the two of us back in each other’s life, but Layla doesn’t quite see it that way.

Can I convince her to break a few rules and take a chance on our own happily ever after?

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Excerpt

“For real, though, a matchmaker? Really, Cole?”

I groan and cover my face with my hand, scrubbing my palm over my eyes then down my cheeks and chin. “Long story short, my grandma asked Ruth to do her a solid and get me settled down. So Ruth went through her song and dance. I think she may have mind ninja’d me into agreeing to be her newest client.”

“Well, shit.” He barks out a laugh.

“Yeah. So I guess I’ll be going on prearranged dates and stuff. I’m not one hundred percent sure what this whole thing involves.”

“I’m here for it, though. This is gonna be one hell of a ride, brother. Entertaining as fuck, I’m sure.” Travis is going to have a blast with this.

“Here’s the crazy thing, though. Ruth’s granddaughter, who actually owns the company, I went to school with her. We had a few business classes at IU and kinda hung out in the same crowd. We were never a thing, but I think we both wanted to be.”

“Oh, snap,” he mutters. “Tell me more.”

“I didn’t know she was related to Ruth, but I saw her today. We chatted a little. I gave her my number. I want to catch up with her.”

“Is she hot?”

I glare at him, his use of the term hot rubbing me the wrong way when it comes to Layla.

He throws his hands up and adds, “What? It’s a legit question. It’s okay if she’s not. You don’t always have to date a ten, man.”

I shake my head, annoyed. “No, Layla is a fucking twelve. She was a solid ten back in college, but she’s even more beautiful now.”

Travis whistles. “Damn, you’ve got it bad.”

“No, I don’t, just wasn’t expecting to run into her today. It’s been ten years.”

Travis hits me with the back of his hand. “Oh, oh, what if Ruth sets you up with her? Can’t you just ask your matchmaker to set you up with people?”

“Honestly, I don’t know. I doubt it works like that, but maybe.” I trail off. Maybe I should ask Ruth about Layla. If she’s single and I’m single, maybe we can finally give it a go.

“Well, I’m team Layla then, man. That’s who I want you to give your first rose to. Oh, and then I’ll be the friend that she gets to meet before you take her home to meet the parents. It’s gonna be an intense ride getting to that final rose ceremony.” He gushes. I see the smirk.

“What the fuck is wrong with you, man? This isn’t a dating show, it’s my life, and I’m not even sure I’m going to go through with it.” I stand from the chair and walk toward the door.

“You’ll do it. Or Dorthy is gonna come hunt you down,” he says from the couch.

He’s not wrong.

“I’ll be back down around six on my way out. You better not be here.” I point at him and give him my best “I’m your boss” glare.

“Oh, hey, if you can fit it into your busy dating schedule”—I roll my eyes at his dig, but he doesn’t miss a beat and continues—“trivia night is coming up at that books and coffee place a few blocks from my apartment. Theme is ’90s Pop Culture. Wanna go and destroy the other teams?”

I chuckle because of our hobbies, the pop culture trivia is the one we both enjoy the most. He is training at becoming a blacksmith, and me, well, I’m a sucker for a good Dungeon and Dragons campaign. But trivia? Put us in a team and we are unstoppable.

“Sure, send me the info and I’ll add it to my calendar.”

“You got it, boss.” He salutes.

“Don’t call me that,” I grumble as I walk out his office door.

“If the shoe fits,” he yells after me. I raise my hand and flip him off, shaking my head at his laugh that follows me down the hallway.

He’s got about two hours before he needs to be kicked out for the night, so I’ve got two hours to get some work done and focus on my task list.

No more thinking about the gorgeous brunette from my past.

At least that’s what I tell myself anyway.

About Lauren Helms

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.

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR

New Release ~ Twist of Date ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Blurb

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Excerpt

“I have so many questions,” I say.

“About?” He chuckles. His hand reaches out like he’s going to touch me again but drops his hand into his pocket.

“You being here in Indy. Meeting with Ruth,” I explain. I won’t share the Googling sleuth Stella just performed.

“Ah, yeah, it’s been a hell of a long time, Lays.” He uses the old nickname like it’s still second nature to him. The reminder of how he insisted on adding the S when we merely acquaintances, friends at best. While we had chemistry, it was never the main factor in the relationship we had. His nickname for me had always baffled me, but I wouldn’t deny that I loved it.

“Ten years,” I say, nearly in a whisper.

A seductive gleam flowers in his eyes as he grins back at me. “You look damn good, Layla.” In my building and meeting with my grandmother.

I smile at his compliment. “So do you, Cole.” He’s wearing is flirty smile, so if I don’t direct him off this flirty path, I’ll regret it later.

“Why [EmL1] [LH2] were you meeting with Ruth?” I try not to sound stern, but I’m not flirting right now.

He lets out a sigh. “She’s apparently my matchmaker now.”

A heavy ball forms deep in my gut. That’s what I was afraid of. She’s going to find him a match, and that will be that. I set my lips in a firm line, switching on my professional mode.

“Well, that’s perfect. Ruth is the best.” My eyes dart away from his face. I can’t continue to look at him. He practically belongs to someone else now.

He doesn’t seem to notice the difference in my demeanor, which is good, but his next words cause me to reinforce the walls.

“I want to catch up. Soon. Can we set a date?”

I gulp before looking back at him, opting to look at his chest rather than his face. He’s wearing a black winter jacket, but it’s unzipped, his dark-colored, green maybe, button-down showing through.

“Oh, yeah, maybe,” I say.

“Let me have your phone. I had to get a new number a few years ago.” He reaches out his hand, his palm face up. I stare at it a moment, then pull out my phone against my better judgment.

I assume he’s entering his number and I’m correct when his own phone pings from somewhere on his person. His grin is huge as he hands my phone back to him.

“Now I’ve got your number.” He reaches out one more time and squeezes my bicep. “I’ve got to run. Potential new distributor meeting.”

I nod, forcing a smile.

Damn, he’s so attractive and all I want to do is snag his hand and pull him over to a table and catch up. But that won’t happen.

“All right. It was good seeing you,” I tell him. Truth.

Then he catches me off guard, pulling me into him for a hug. “So fucking good seeing you, Lays.” I feel his warm breath in my hair before he steps away. “Promise we will catch up soon, yeah?”

I nod, still taking in everything about that hug. His manly, woodsy scent, his warmth, the feel of his body around mine. His chuckle follows him as he leaves. I watch him leave until I can’t see him anymore.

What just happened?

I look down at my hand and see my phone still in it. I swipe open the messages to see what he texted himself.

Me: you’re still so hot, Cole. #perfection

Rereading the message from himself, he replies and my eyebrow rises.

Cole: Damn, Lays, you know how to make a guy blush.

I snort at his bullshit reply with a quick eye roll emoji. Even though he’s probably halfway down the street by now, I can practically hear his laughter.

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About Lauren Helms

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Cover Reveal ~ Twist of Date ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Join us for the cover reveal of Twist of Date by Lauren Helms. Fans who love Friends to Lovers Romances will sink their teeth into this steamy, secret fling, matchmaker romance. Keep scrolling for more details about this sexy cover.

Title: Twist of Date

Author: Lauren Helms

Release Date: 7/14/2023

Genres: Contemporary Romance

Page Count: 66,000 words

Trope: Secret Fling, Matchmaker, Friends to Lovers, A Twist of Forbidden, Bossbabe

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About Lauren Helms

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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

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR

New Release ~ Wed Like Wildfire ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Blurb

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Excerpt

I spot Cassie immediately, in the corner, at a table for four. I wonder if she knows it will just be us. Taking advantage of the fact that she hasn’t noticed my arrival yet, I take a moment to study her. She sits tall, facing the entrance, looking at her phone. She seems to be scrolling through an app as her lips tip up and her eyes glitter as she looks at what’s on her screen. There is an untouched water in front of her, but her menu is closed.

The sheer happiness that radiates off this woman irritates me. I don’t know why, but as I approach the table, what tumbles out of my mouth is unexpected.

“Let me guess, you just took the most epic selfie ever and can’t wait to share it with all your followers?” My tone takes on a mocking tone and immediately I want to take it back. Damn I’m an asshole.

To her credit, she doesn’t even bat an eye at my rudeness. Her face turns up toward me and she smiles. “Well, good afternoon to you too, Mr. Abbot.” She puts her phone down on the table and gestures toward the seat across from her. “Please, have a seat.”

And I do, begrudgingly, because being around this woman causes me to not just be my normal grouchy self, but clearly a prick as well.

As I take my seat, she slides her phone into her bag that sits on the floor next to her chair.

I clear my throat, my attempt to shake myself out of my head. “Nora won’t be joining us. I assume you already know.”

Now this does give her pause. Her brows dip. “No, I didn’t know. She didn’t…” her voice trails as a faint ding from her phone sounds from below. In the few times I’ve seen this woman, I think this is the first time I’ve ever not seen a smile on her face. She studies her smartwatch, clearly reading the message that just came in, her elbows still propped elegantly on the table, as I watch her realize that it will just be us for lunch.

Her creased brows even and she plasters on a smile as she drops her hands to her lap. “Well, her timing could be improved, but you’re correct, she’s not joining us.”

I can’t stop myself before barking out a laugh. She tilts her head, her features dancing with happiness. I shut down my amusement at her words and offer a terse, “Excuse me.”

“No, that was enjoyable to watch. I didn’t know you had it in you, Mr. Abbot.”

I make the decision, in this moment, to put an end to the formalities. “Theo. Please, call me Theo.”

Her grin widens. “All right, Theo,” and just as expected, the sound of my name on her lips fucking gets to me. I shift in my seat as she continues.

“So tell me how I managed to get that laughter out of you moments ago? I get a feeling it’s not a commodity around you.”

“Nora has always waited until the last minute when it comes to communication over things that may cause contention. You’ve known her a short time and already know her tells.” I pick up the menu, though I already know what I will order.

“Ah, yes, well, I read people pretty quickly.” She shifts the menu slightly on the table in front of her, not picking it up.

“Yeah? What’s your read on me?” I don’t know why I ask. Glutton for punishment, I guess.

This time she lets out a laugh. “Let’s keep this lunch civil and not go there.”

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About Lauren Helms

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Release Tour ~ Win My Heart ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

For Bernadette Ross, there are two things she knows for sure, she loves being a kick-ass gamer girl and she’s been in love with her teammate’s older brother for years. Wade Roberts was forced to put her in the friend zone, but when his feelings can’t be ignored any longer, the only option is to keep their relationship a secret. Fans of nerdy romance, Carrie Aarons, and Kaylee Ryan will adore WIN MY HEART by Lauren Helms, a secret relationship, gamer girl romance.

“Lauren Helms delivers a sweet and steamy romance that packs an emotional punch.” – Mary @ USA Today HEA on ONE MORE ROUND, Gamer Boy 2

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Bernie

When it comes to gaming,

I’m a pro.

When it comes to my love life?

That’s a different story.

I’ve been crushing on my best friend’s older brother forever.

In return, he’s kept me in the friend zone for way too long.

Then things change between us.

And I get to see a whole new,

And incredibly sexy side to him.

But, he wants to keep things between us a secret.

Wade

I made a promise to my brother.

One I refused to break.

Until now.

I’ve ignored my feelings for the girl for way too long.

And the more time we spend together,

The harder I find myself falling.

There’s just one problem,

I can’t let anyone know that I’ve made her mine.

Can I win her heart before its game-over for us both?

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Excerpt

I rush to the stairs at the end of the hall. It will be quicker than waiting for the elevator, and since I’m only going up one floor, it makes sense. After taking the steps by twos, I’m standing in front of the guys’ apartment in no time.

Brushing a stray hair off my face as I unlock the door, I realize I never changed out of my workout attire. My capri leggings, which I wear while lounging around at home more than working out, are black with a camo pink design up the sides. Then I’m wearing a crop top tank in the same matching pink.

I’m glad the guys aren’t here, because I don’t dress like this around them. Ever. I’m normally in a pair of skinny jeans and a fitted tee or hoodie. On occasion, I know how to dress up. I’m assuming if the guys saw my midriff, it would be akin to seeing their sister show too much skin.

I take a few steps into the apartment, and it’s dead quiet, as expected. I look around for the speaker and notice the place is cleaner than it was yesterday. Since Dex moved out last month, it’s become blatantly obvious who kept the place clean—or at least held the guys accountable for cleaning up after themselves.

I chuckle to myself at how much fun Gia and Ruby will have when they have to house-train their men eventually.

I remember that we had the speaker back in Link’s room, testing it with his stream set up. So I head down the hall.

I hear a noise and look over my shoulder just as I run into something hard and wet.

I squeak as I whip my face around, and I jump when strong hands grab both of my arms.

“Shit,” a deep voice mutters.

I stifle a scream right as I process what—I mean who—I ran into.

Wade Roberts.

The Wade Roberts.

Dex’s older brother.

My teammate’s big brother and the guy I’ve shamefully had a secret crush on for years.

Yeah, that Wade Roberts.

He grips my biceps tightly as if he fears I’m going to fall over. And once my vision focuses on him and my eyes drift down his body, and I realize that he’s naked, I think I might just pass out.

Well, hello, abs.

“Bernadette. You good?” His voice is deep, and there’s a trace of humor there.

The way he says my name makes my knees weak. Not many people call me by my full name, but Wade always has.

I nod, still taking him in. Okay, so he’s not naked completely. He’s got a towel wrapped low around his waist, giving me a nearly full view of the perfect ‘v’ and the hint of whatever he’s hiding underneath. I force my gaze back up to his chest, then to his face. Shit, he’s got a nice face.

Christ on a cracker.

“I’m wet now,” I mutter.

His eyes go wide.

I try again. “Shit. No, I mean, why am I wet now that you’re here?”

He barks out a laugh, and I nearly die.

“No, frack. Wait, why are you wet? Because now I am. Is this sweat or water?” I peel my eyes away from the half-naked man I’ve dreamed about for the past few years and take a step back. He doesn’t let his hand drop right away, but then his gaze blazes down my body.

I instinctively cover my stomach with my hand, then drop it because it was an awkward move on my part. I just end up bringing more attention to myself as he drinks me in. When I clear my throat, his eyes find mine.

He seems to shake himself out of something and puts yet another step between us.

“Uh, yeah. Sorry. I just got out of the shower. I wasn’t expecting to run into anyone, so I’m glad I even bothered with the towel.” His throaty chuckle is uncomfortable as I think about what would have happened if he had forwent the towel.

I giggle nervously. “Oh, yeah, same,” I reply. “I mean, wasn’t expecting to run into anyone.”

“Right.” He smiles.

Wow, this is uncomfortable. Anyone looking in would think we were two half-naked strangers running into each other. But we aren’t. I’ve known Wade for almost five years. While he doesn’t hang out a lot with the gang, he’s around. He supports our team and I’ve eaten many meals with him. Some days, I would even consider us friends. We get along well. I’ve just always had a crush on him, and he’s always looked at me the same way the guys do—as a sister. Which is fine. Totally fine. It’s probably for the best.

About Lauren Helms

This promotional event is brought to you by Indie Pen PR

New Release ~ Win My Heart ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

“Level Me Up is a cannot-put-down, relatable, fun-loving read that captured my heart, soul and mind and took me to another level.” – Amazon Reviewer on LEVEL ME UP, Gamer Boy 1

Blurb

Bernie

When it comes to gaming,

I’m a pro.

When it comes to my love life?

That’s a different story.

I’ve been crushing on my best friend’s older brother forever.

In return, he’s kept me in the friend zone for way too long.

Then things change between us.

And I get to see a whole new,

And incredibly sexy side to him.

But, he wants to keep things between us a secret.

Wade

I made a promise to my brother.

One I refused to break.

Until now.

I’ve ignored my feelings for the girl for way too long.

And the more time we spend together,

The harder I find myself falling.

There’s just one problem,

I can’t let anyone know that I’ve made her mine.

Can I win her heart before its game-over for us both?

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Excerpt

I want so badly to intertwine my fingers with hers, but I can’t, and she drops my hand before reaching for pretzels.

“O.M.G. It just hit me how hungry I am.” She shoves food into her mouth, and I can’t help but chuckle at her.

“Did you not eat dinner?” Leaning into the bar, I watch her with fascination.

“I did, but I was wearing a dress.” She offers this up as if it’s common sense.

I snort. “I don’t understand what that has to do with anything.”

She giggles and rolls her eyes. “Let me school you in some basic female knowledge.” She shoves more food into her mouth. If she wasn’t drunk, she’d be embarrassed at the way she’s acting. I find it endearing.

“Mkay. By all means, Bernie, educate me.”

She makes a face, and I’m not sure what I said that threw her off, but then she tells me. “If you’re gonna use a nickname, it’s Benny now.” She scoffs.

Confused, I just shake my head. I’ll admit, I don’t use her shortened name often. Way back in the day, she introduced herself to me as Bernadette, so it just stuck. I’ve always kinda liked that I’m the only one to use her full name, but I’m not on my game tonight. Between her being drunk and overly flirting with me, the new knowledge I possess about her, and the douche-waffle thinking he has a chance with her, I slip and use her nickname.

“Anyway, what do you have to teach me, oh wise one?” I smirk, getting her back on track.

“Ohh, I like that. But I think you’re making fun. I digress. When a woman is wearing a fancy dress, there are two rules. One, don’t make a mess. And two, don’t stuff yourself silly or your food baby will show.”

A deep belly laugh erupts from me. Between breaths, I ask, “Food baby?”

She’s soaking up my laughter, and she nods vigorously. “Yes, you know when you eat too much and it just sits there in your gut, and it looks like you’re about fifteen weeks preggo? Ergo, food baby. You don’t do that in a fancy tight-fitting dress.”

My laughter under control now, I tell her, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like this before, Bernadette.” I chuckle, taking in her carefree, easy demeanor. Her eyes flash with something.

“Like what?” She hiccups.

“Drunk,” I deadpan.

Her eyes widen. “Oh, then I’ve done my job.”

I quirk my brow, “Do you get drunk often and hide it?” She giggles. “Well, shit, do I need to stage an intervention?”

Her pure happiness sets my blood on fire, and it takes everything in me to not reach out to touch her.

“Stop, I’m not a closet drunk. I mean, you don’t see me drunk because I don’t get drunk. In public or alone.” She tries her damnedest to make a serious face, but the attempt ends up just amusing her, and her eyes sparkle.

My own grin grows. “You’re fun like this. Carefree.”

She’s being hilarious right now. I know she doesn’t need alcohol to make her funny. She’s always fun to be around. But I realize now that I don’t have a lot of one-on-one conversations with her. I’m going to start craving this connection.

“I’m not normally fun?” She pops out her bottom lip, leaning forward slightly. Her scent fills my lungs. I take in a deep breath and lean in closer to her.

“No, you’re fun, Benny.” My voice is deep. Her eyes glitter at the use of her new nickname.

She attempts to be serious, but fails. “Just more fun when I’m wasted, yeah?”

“Nah. But normally, you don’t let me get close enough to have fun.” I don’t know why I said that, but it’s out there now.

Her eyes widen, and her mouth forms a little o. I let the silence envelop us. The ball is in her court now.

“Well…” She closes her mouth, opens it again, and then closes it.

I offer a soft laugh. She seems to gather her thoughts and says, “Well, you know where I live. So if you want fun, you know where to find me.”

Well. Fuck. Me.

I gulp, taking in her words, and before I can reply, she’s walking—no, running—away. Gia drapes her arm over her as the girls pull her into the conversation. I’m looking at her, still processing the gauntlet she threw down, and she peeks at me over her shoulder, gives me a little smile, then turns back to the group.

Damn, she launched that fucking ball right back into my court, didn’t she?

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About Lauren Helms

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Cover Reveal ~ Win My Heart ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Join us for the cover reveal of Win My Heart by Lauren Helms. Fans who love Nerdy Romances will sink their teeth into this steamy, secret relationship, best friend’s sibling, game girl romance. Keep scrolling for more details about this sexy cover.

Title: Win My Heart

Author: Lauren Helms

Release Date: 7/7/2022

Genres: Contemporary Romance

Trope: Secret Relationship Romance, Best Friend’s Sibling, Nerdy Romance

Bernie

When it comes to gaming,

I’m a pro.

When it comes to my love life?

That’s a different story.

I’ve been crushing on my best friend’s older brother forever.

In return, he’s kept me in the friend zone for way too long.

Then things change between us.

And I get to see a whole new,

And incredibly sexy side to him.

But, he wants to keep things between us a secret.

Wade

I made a promise to my brother.

One I refused to break.

Until now.

I’ve ignored my feelings for the girl for way too long.

And the more time we spend together,

The harder I find myself falling.

There’s just one problem,

I can’t let anyone know that I’ve made her mine.

Can I win her heart before its game-over for us both?

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About Lauren Helms

Sales Blitz ~ Unexpected Love series ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

The Unexpected Love Series by Lauren Helms is a fast-paced, must-read contemporary romance featuring three couples and their charming and entertaining journey to happily ever after. Boyfriend Maintenance, Flawless Foundations, and Unexpected Expectations are on sale for a limited time. Grab your copies today and see why 425 Madison Ave is the perfect place to fall in love.

Series Blurb A series from the popular 425 Madison Ave series…. Unexpected Love at the fast-paced 425 Madison Ave apartment building is a must read contemporary romance series from Lauren Helms. Featuring three couples and their charming and entertaining journey to their happily ever after. When disgraced high-society princess Emmy hires maintenance man, Jake as her fake boyfriend, will the lines blur the more time they spend together? Fall in love with Jake and Emmy in BOYFRIEND MAINTENANCE, a fake relationship romance. When a kiss turns into more and a secret is being kept, can they build flawless foundations? Fall in love with Levi and Becca in FLAWLESS FOUNDATIONS, a best friend’s sibling, marriage of convenience, with a touch of enemies to lovers romance. When a little luck turns into something more unexpected, will it end up being too good to be true? Join Kevin and Lucy on a trip to Vegas they will never forget in UNEXPECTED EXPECTATIONS, a rags to riches romance. After all, 425 Madison Ave is the perfect place to fall in love! Read Boyfriend Maintenance #1 for Free→https://amzn.to/3w7tJ0G Read Flawless Foundations #2 for $0.99→ https://amzn.to/36hXFwn Read Book Unexpected Expectations #3 for $1.99→ https://amzn.to/34FTMkc

Praise for Series

“This story will make you smile, think, swoon, and it brings some heat and some crazy.” – Amazon Reviewer “Perfect light reading for a lazy afternoon!” – Andrea Guy “This [series] was fast paced, and reiterated how much I want to move to 425 Madison immediately.” – Jennifer, The Power of Three Readers

Boyfriend Maintenance #1 Emmy King became a disgraced high-society princess when she walked away from her family’s money. Jake Harper is the sexy yet uninterested apartment building’s maintenance man. When the two agree to help each other out, they quickly realize the more time they spend together the more the lines get blurred. Fall in love with Jake and Emmy in Boyfriend Maintenance, a fake relationship romance. Buy Now or Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! Flawless Foundations #2 Born from money, Levi was destined to take over the family business. Becca has always had a crush on her bestie’s big brother, but she hadn’t planned on shaking things up. When a kiss turns into more and a secret is being kept, can they build flawless foundations? Fall in love with Levi and Becca in FLAWLESS FOUNDATIONS, a best friend sibling romance. Buy Now or Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited! Unexpected Expectations #3 For Kevin Harper and Lucy Miller, what started as a $10 raffle ticket turned into a vacation in Vegas and a whole lot of expectations that neither of them saw coming. When a little luck turns into something more unexpected, will it end up being too good to be true? Find out in UNEXPECTED EXPECTATIONS, a rags to riches romance. Buy Now or Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited!

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 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. Follow: Facebook | Reader Group | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub | Newsletter | TikTok

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Cover Reveal ~ Cocky Gamer ~ by ~ Lauren Helms

Join us for the cover reveal of Cocky Gamer by Lauren Helms. Readers who love the popular Cocky Hero Club novels will enjoy this flirty, missed connection romance. Keep scrolling for more details about this sexy cover.

Title: Cocky Gamer

Author: Lauren Helms

Release Date: Spring 2021

Genres: Contemporary Romance

Trope: Missed Connections, Long Distance Romance

Ben Ford is good at what he does but his days as a professional gamer are numbered.

His entire pro-team is moving on and now it’s time for Ben to do the same but when a short gig for a voice-over brings this Chicago native to California he finds a little more than what he bargained for.

A chance meeting on the beaches of Hermosa soon has Ben falling head over lust for the animal-loving, wave crushing woman.

Kelly Spencer is stuck in a job she hates and with a dating life as dull as the last series of dates she’s been on.

With her prospects looking bleaker by the day, she throws caution to the wind in both her personal and professional life.

Long-distance love with a cocky gamer was never on her radar but Ben is flirty and fun – plus their chemistry together is off the charts.

When a huge career opportunity threatens to put even more miles between them, Kelly may just have to let go of the one guy who’s found a way inside her heart.

Ben may have let her go then but when a last-minute offer comes in that will land him right where his heart wants to be, he takes and vows that this time – he’ll prove to Kelly that they’re meant to be.

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Goodreads → https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55819369-cocky-gamer

About the author

Lauren lives in Indianapolis, Indiana sharing her love of books and video games with her own Gamer Boy husband and three little 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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