Spotlight: Secrets That We Keep by Linda Kage

Publication date: January 28th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Gracen Lowe has a new life theory:
What you don’t know can’t hurt you.

Which is exactly why he decides not to tell his twin sister, Bella, that he’s accidentally falling for the woman she hates most, the very woman who allegedly cheated with Bella’s last boyfriend and broke them apart.

Bella might be his best friend and ultimate confidante, but she’d legit cut off his favorite body part if she knew which woman he’d been craving. So even if his theory’s totally whack, staying quiet will definitely keep him safer.

Except he feels so guilty about it all.

Meanwhile, Bella’s heating up the sheets with one of Gracen’s best friends, and she can’t seem to reveal that little detail to her brother either, due to—you know—reasons.

When the truth is exposed, all bets are off. Shattered secrets will either set everyone free or wreck their relationships forever.

Excerpt

“I, uh, I don’t actually have any coffee in my apartment.”

I grinned, relieved. “That’s fine. I don’t like coffee.”

“What?” Her brow furrowed. “But I’ve been meeting you in the breakroom for coffee, like, all week long.”

“I’m not sure what you were paying attention to in that break room, Miss Nicksen,” I told her, unable to stop smirking, “But it certainly wasn’t what I’ve been putting into my cup. Because I’ve been drinking TEA all week long.”

Her mouth dropped open. “Oh my God. Have you really?”

I snickered out an amused laugh before gravely telling her, “And here, I could tell you exactly how you take your coffee. Extra dark, two sugars, and one scoop of French vanilla creamer.”

“Oh God. I’m so sorry,” she murmured, looking horrified as she set her hands over her cheeks. “I feel like I’ve been totally objectifying you because, no, I definitely did not notice you were drinking tea instead of coffee.”

“Well, you know the best way to fix that, don’t you?” I asked, taking her hand. “Show me to your room and get all those nasty, objectifying ways out of your system, so then maybe tomorrow morning, you can actually look me in the eye and find out how many packets of sugar I put in my tea.”

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About the Author

Linda writes romance fiction from YA to adult, contemporary to fantasy. Most Kage stories lean more toward the lighter, sillier side with a couple meaningful moments thrown in. Focuses more on entertainment value and emotional impact.

Published since 2010. Went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children's literature from The Institute of Children's Literature. Then graduated with a Bachelors in Arts, English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.

Now she lives with hubby, two daughters, cat Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas, USA. Farm girl. Parents were dairy farmers. Was youngest of eight. Big family. Day job as a cataloging library assistant.

Harry Potter House Gryffindor, Patronus White Stallion, character match Hagrid. Supernatural Team Dean. Game of Thrones Team Jon Snow and Tyrion Lannister. The Walking Dead Team Daryl. Outlander Team Jamie Fraser. Teen Wolf Team Stiles. Avenger Team Thor...or Hulk (can't decide). Justice League Team Flash. Arrow Team Stephen Amell. Stranger Things obsessed. Heard Laurel, not Yanny.

Started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club. Then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now all over the place with her romance reading tastes.

Connect:

Twitter: @lindakage - https://twitter.com/lindakage
Facebook: Linda Kage - Romance Author - https://www.facebook.com/authorlindakage
Instagram: @lindakagebks - https://www.instagram.com/lindakagebks/
Website: http://www.lindakage.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3213942.Linda_Kage
Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/APageWithLindaKage/
Email: linda@lindakage.com

Cover Reveal: Broken Wing by Kathleen Mare

(Arthur Academy, #1)
Publication date: April 26th 2021
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult

Hendrix:
It’s funny the things you notice as a child.
Like the way people uneasily glance away from me whenever I catch their eye. Or the way a stranger seems to smile happily at other children, but when I say hello, their smile looks more uneasy than warm...

But as I approach the steel gates to the elite Arthur Academy, I can’t help but take a long-awaited breath towards my freedom. Finally, I have the chance to build the life I want. A future. Something that gives me more to live for than the daily beatings my childhood only ever knew. The girl I used to be doesn’t exist here. But even as the confidence grows about a life I now have control over, I can’t help but feel there could be something else waiting for me here. Something I’ve never faced before.

And it isn’t something I could prepare for.
And preparation is what got me out. It got me here.

I can’t afford to lose this opportunity, because if I lose this hand, it’s more than just a loss.
It's like not being able to breathe. Not being able to fly.

Paxton:
I grip the leather ball in my hand, feeling the weight of the year pressing down on me. If it was just football, I could deal, but with my last name – it's everything else that suffocates me. The Arthur Elite is what they call us, and we each have our roles to play. But my fathers given me the next two years to do what the hell I want without his interference, before he’ll own me and I'll become nothing but his pawn.
After that, when college is done, I dread the life I’ll have to lead. The role I’ll be forced to play.
It should be simple. Just stroll through the steel gates and be the crown they all see; but I can’t help but feel there is something lurking beneath the surface. There is something different about this year that I sense inside my dark soul.
And it isn’t something I am prepared for; even when staying ahead is the one thing that ensures my next breath.

Because when I lose a hand, it’s more than just a loss.
It's like losing a limb. A bird breaking its' wing.

And without that - I can’t fly toward freedom.
And my freedom right now, is all I have to hold onto.

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Spotlight: Through A Sober Lens: A Photographer's Journey Hardcover by Michael Blanchard

This book chronicles a soul in metamorphosis. In its pages we follow Michael Blanchard’s journey from a place of pain and darkness to one of hope and love. Like most life transitions it has its share of messy and confusing moments, yet woven throughout is a spirit of optimism and resilience–the belief that if we keep moving forward through tough times, wonderful things will happen. Anyone who has gone through struggles and challenges (and that’s everyone) will find resonance and uplift here. The images are more than photographs- they’re affirmations of a second chance at life. Michael takes a leap of faith that by sharing his story with honesty and intimacy he can serve as an example of hope and recovery to others. The result is amazing. To date Michael has raised over $30,000 through his writing and photography to support mental health and substance abuse treatment on Martha’s Vineyard. Sales of this book will lift that number higher.  

Enjoy the beauty that unfolds in the pages ahead–you’re in for a treat. 

-Genevieve Press

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About the Author

MICHAEL BLANCHARD isa self-taught landscape photographer on Martha’s Vineyard. He previously worked as a healthcare executive for 35 years, eventually serving as chief operating officer of a large company in Maine. He has a Master of Science Degree in Health Administration and a Master of Arts in Psychology with a focus on substance use disorder. His photography has been featured in magazines including Vineyard Style, Cape Cod Life, and Popular Photography. Michael is the author of two books that combine images and inspirational words to help people understand and heal from the disease of addiction. He has shared the stage with speakers such as Patrick Kennedy and been featured on Boston radio stations including WBZ. He hosts a weekly TV show Addiction–Got a Minute? that features guests from the island community who offer hope for those with mental health or addiction issues. Michael was named an “Inspirational Photographer” by the host of the prestigious Art Buchwald Possible Dreams Auction, where he donated $10,000 from calendar sales featuring his photos. Michael is the owner and creator of the Crossroads Gallery, which was runner-up for Best Island Gallery in Martha’s Vineyard Magazine’s“Best of the Vineyard” awards.

Spotlight: The Vineyard at Painted Moon by Susan Mallery

Publisher : HQN Books; Original edition (February 9, 2021)

Step into the vineyard with Susan Mallery’s most irresistible novel yet, as one woman searches for the perfect blend of love, family and wine.

Mackenzie Dienes seems to have it all—a beautiful home, close friends and a successful career as an elite winemaker with the family winery. There’s just one problem—it’s not her family, it’s her husband’s. In fact, everything in her life is tied to him—his mother is the closest thing to a mom that she’s ever had, their home is on the family compound, his sister is her best friend. So when she and her husband admit their marriage is over, her pain goes beyond heartbreak. She’s on the brink of losing everything. Her job, her home, her friends and, worst of all, her family.

Staying is an option. She can continue to work at the winery, be friends with her mother-in-law, hug her nieces and nephews—but as an employee, nothing more. Or she can surrender every piece of her heart in order to build a legacy of her own. If she can dare to let go of the life she thought she wanted, she might discover something even more beautiful waiting for her beneath a painted moon.

Excerpt

She waved her hand as she spoke, her new engagement ring catching the light. Mackenzie leaned forward and touched her hand. 

“I didn’t get to see your ring up close, at the party. It’s lovely.” 

Barbara splayed her fingers. “I’m still getting used to it, but yes, it is fabulous. Giorgio chose well.” 

“In his choice of bride as well as his choice of jewelry,” Rhys said with a grin.

 Stephanie glared at him. “Suck-up.” 

Barbara sighed. “Children, please.” 

“Have you decided on any wedding particulars?” Mackenzie asked. 

“Something with the family over the holidays,” Barbara told her. “I’m not sure. I was thinking small, but now I’m leaning toward ostentatious.” 

“You should,” Mackenzie told her. “You’re so very much in love. Everyone can see it.” 

Barbara’s expression softened. “What a lovely thing to say. Thank you.” 

Lori walked in with five folders in her hand. Mackenzie didn’t bother waiting for Barbara’s pointed look. She rose and excused herself.

 “I’ll be home right after,” Rhys said, taking the folder from his sister and opening it.

 She nodded and waited to see if he would look up from the family’s monthly financial report, but he didn’t. 

“Close the door behind you, Mackenzie,” Barbara called. 

She did as requested, then retraced her steps to the first floor. As she stepped outside, she calculated how many of those meetings had taken place since she and Rhys had gotten married. 

And it was just family. Mackenzie had never attended a single meeting, nor had Jaguar, Four’s husband. Nor Kyle, when he and Stephanie had been married. 

She selected a golf cart and drove past the tasting room and onto the private road that led to the compound. Vineyards stretched out for as far as the eye could see. The sight of clusters of hard green fruit filled her with anticipation. In a few short months, the grapes would turn color and ripen, and then they would be harvested. An intoxicating scent would linger over the area, sweet with promise of what was to be. 

As she approached the compound of four houses in a loose circle, she paused to collect the mail, then drove toward the house she shared with Rhys. In the distance, she saw Jaguar outside playing with his kids. 

Overhead the sky was a perfect blue. The temperature had hit ninety, but it would cool off at night. She hit a button on her key chain, and a golf-cart-size garage door rose slowly, allowing her to zip inside.

 The house was still and cool. After taking a glass from a cupboard, she filled it with water and ice, then opened the refrigerator to check what was for dinner.

 A baking dish held chicken with sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts. Next to that was a salad. On the counter she found a three-by-five card with heating instructions and a peach pie. 

The four families shared the services of a professional chef. Chef Betsy came in five days a week. Dinners were left daily, along with the next day’s lunch. 

Mackenzie turned over the card and saw the next day she would be eating a shaved roast beef and arugula wrap with asiago cheese and a horseradish dressing for lunch. She put the card on the counter and took her water with her as she headed upstairs. 

Like many of those who worked outside, she showered at the end of the day. As she tossed her clothes into the hamper and pinned up her hair to avoid the spray, she told herself she was really lucky. She had a pretty amazing life. A husband, a beautiful house, family and friends, a job she loved. Even someone else to do most of the cooking. She was truly blessed, in every way possible. As for those times when she found herself wondering if maybe there was something else out there—well, she should just suck it up and get over herself. Nothing could be better than what she had.

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About the Author

No.1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming, humorous novels about the relationships that define our lives – family, friendship, romance. She’s known for putting nuanced characters in emotional situations that surprise readers to laughter. Beloved by millions, her books have been translated into 28 languages. Susan lives in Washington with her husband, two cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur.

Connect with Susan: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Spotlight: Inheriting More Than Riches by Rachelley Bean

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Not your typical Cinderella story…

Twenty-five-year-old Julia Evans grew up believing the story of Cinderella was her story. Her life mirrored the fairy tale Princess.

When she receives a formal invitation to an event hosted by a complete stranger, she makes a spur-of-the-moment decision and accepts. What she doesn’t realize is her life is about to change.

Boarding the OpenTides cruise ship is the first step of Julia’s roller coaster journey to finding love, experiencing life the way she should have before and having the chance to earn an inheritance she didn’t know she deserved.

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About the Author

Rachelley Bean is a self-published author trying to claw her way through the sea of writerdom. She enjoys long conversations with herself and her muse, walks on the beach, and sex. Who doesn't like sex? 

Website * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads

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Cover Reveal: Moments Like This by Anna Gomez & Kristoffer Polaha

Published by: Rosewind Books
Publication date: March 9th 2021
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

After Andrea “Andie” Matthews chooses her career over a marriage proposal and then loses a promotion she worked so hard for, she jumps at the chance to take a break and help run a friend’s coffee shop.

Alone in Hawaii, Andie befriends the staff and quickly grows to care for them, making her determined to revive the company.

As luck would have it, she meets the mysterious Warren Yates on Christmas Eve. They share a cup of coffee, some conversation, and even a moment, which leads to many more in the coming weeks.

But when Andie learns who Warren really is—and what he actually wants—she is torn between her feelings and his deception.

Will Warren be able to win her heart back?

http://fromkonawithlove.com/

Pre-order: Amazon

About the Author

Kristoffer Polaha is best-known for his long starring role in the critically acclaimed series Life Unexpected (The CW). Other TV series credits include Get Shorty with Ray Romano and Chris O’Dowd, the limited series Condor opposite William Hurt and Max Irons, The CW’s Ringer (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and Valentine, as well as North Shore (FOX).

In addition to co-starring with Rainn Wilson in Backstrom (FOX), he had a multi-season role on the acclaimed series Mad Men (AMC) and Castle (ABC). Polaha is also well-known for starring in Hallmark Channel movies such as Dater’s Handbook with Meghan Markle, and the Mystery 101 franchise on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.

Polaha first received attention for his portrayal of John F. Kennedy, Jr. in the TV movie, America’s Prince: The John F. Kennedy Jr. Story, opposite Portia de Rossi. He has appeared in numerous independent features, including Where Hope Grows, Devil’s Knot (Colin Firth, Reese Witherspoon), and the Tim Tebow film, Run the Race.

Polaha has a featured role opposite Gal Gadot in Wonder Woman 1984 and in Jurassic World: Dominion.

In addition to his work as an actor, producer, and director, Polaha is branching into the book world by co-authoring a new series. He is also involved with several charitable organizations, including being an ambassador for World Vision, a board member for HerArtsInAction, and The Polaha Family Circus Foundation.

Polaha was born in Reno, Nevada, and he is married to actress Julianne Morris. They have three sons.

Anna Gomez was born in the city of Makati, Philippines and educated abroad. She met and married her best friend who whisked her away to Chicago over twenty years ago. She is Chief Financial Officer for Leo Burnett Worldwide, a global advertising company founded in 1935. In her capacity, Anna serves on the board of several not-for-profit organizations, namely the Hugh O’Brien Leadership Organization and Girl Scouts of America. She is also the executive sponsor for a number of employee resource groups focused on Diversity and Inclusion.

Under the pen name Christine Brae, Anna has published six novels, has an established fan base, and a dedicated following. Her titles rank in the Top 100 months following their release. Her last three novels, In This Life, Eight Goodbyes, and The Year I Left, have won literary awards and were immediate bestsellers on Amazon, ranking #1 across multiple categories.