Spotlight: The Messy Truth About Love by C. L. Walters

Publication date: September 6th 2022
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

HANNAH

A fresh start is exactly what Hannah Fleming needs after getting dumped by her cheating ex-boyfriend. While getting rejected was awful, nine weeks removed she’s recognizing the benefits, seeing that relationship for what it was: unhealthy. Then, Hannah bumps into her high school crush, Seth Peters, and is offered a second chance to see if what was in the past can once again be magical in the present. But when her past threatens her second chance, she must determine how hard she’s willing to fight for her future.

SETH

A fresh start is exactly what Seth Peters needs. New place. New people. New opportunities. Except, he runs straight into one of the greatest unresolved moments of his past, Hannah Fleming. Suddenly life is offering a second chance with her, but can he hold onto all he’s learned over the last few years to make a future with Hannah work? Or will he backslide into old ways of being to hide the truth of his darker past?

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org

About the Author

As a kid, CL Walters, world revolved around two things: stories and make believe. She's built a real life around those two things: a teacher of stories and a writer of make believe.

With four books now published, she's looking forward to her fifth release October 13, 2020, a YA Contemporary Romance called The Stories Stars Tell.

Sign up for her newsletter for news, goodies, and fun (www.clwalters.net)

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https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15458999.C_L_Walters

Spotlight: Just Like Family by Barbara Casey

Publication date: July 28th 2022
Genres: Adult, Romance

All in one day, thirty-five-year-old Hallie Marsh learns that the man she loves, works for, and is living with has found someone else-and that she no longer has a job, a place to live, or a car since she crashed it into a hedge. Her feelings of rage and desire for revenge are soon replaced by a fascination with her new neighbors-four peculiar, elderly people who decide to buy an old run-down estate, fix it up, and live in it “just like family.”

Excerpt

Hallie’s heart raced as she walked briskly past the other offices to the executive suite at the end of the corridor.  Since Jeff had sent word asking to see her, it must mean that he was finally finished with that project he had been working on day and night for the past several weeks and that he needed her as much as she needed him.  She knew his divorce had just been finalized, although he hadn’t told her yet.  She had called the courthouse downtown and found out on her own.  He was probably just waiting for the right time to tell her.  Over a romantic dinner at one of their favorite places.  Or maybe he would take her somewhere for the weekend.  He enjoyed surprising her.  And there was the awards banquet tonight.  He hadn’t mentioned that to her either, but naturally he would want her to go with him.  In real estate circles, it was the event of the year.  Even though it was supposed to be a secret, everyone knew that Jeff was getting the Salesman of the Year Award again.  So much to celebrate and what better way than to make love in his office now.

“Mr. Darnell is expecting you, Ms. Marsh.”

Hallie smiled at the secretary, hoping that her demeanor was that of a public relations director going into a meeting with the president of the company and not of a woman who was going to make love to her boss in his office at four o’clock in the afternoon.  “Thanks, Mary,” she said shifting her notebook in an exaggerated movement from one hand to the other, feeling slightly self-conscious.  She suppressed the urge to giggle, something she frequently did whenever she felt self-conscious, and walked past the secretary’s desk.  On the other side of the ornate double doors was Jeff’s office, a large multi-functional room that had both a southern and eastern exposure.

Jeff was standing with his back to her, looking out one of two mullioned, floor-to-ceiling windows, the one facing the intracoastal waterway.  Hallie quietly closed the door and locked it.  The desire she felt for him was tremendous and had somehow managed to gravitate to an area the size of a baseball between her naval and vulva.  Without saying anything she unbuttoned her navy blue coatdress, silently applauding the fact that she had decided to wear it today since it was so easy to take off.  Then she walked up behind him, slipped her arms around his waist, and pressed her body into his back.  “You can’t imagine how much I have missed you,” she whispered when he turned around.  She eagerly sought his lips as she loosened his tie and began unfastening the buttons on his shirt, completely forgetting the self-consciousness she had experienced moments earlier.  He did that to her.  Things she wouldn’t normally do under any other circumstances, she felt no inhibitions in doing with Jeff.

“Hallie, I need to tell you something.”  Jeff held her trembling hands in his but she continued with the buttons, stopping only when she reached the buckle on his belt.  She pulled his shirt loose from his trousers and opened it, exposing his bare chest.  Then she tenderly kissed his neck, working her way down his chest and stomach with her mouth and tongue.

“Hallie, please.  Stop.  We have to talk.”

Hallie looked up into Jeff’s face, breathless and flushed with desire.  Curiously at that moment she remembered seeing somewhere in a magazine two similar photographs side by side, the caption under one of them reading, “What’s wrong with this picture?”

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About the Author

Barbara Casey is the author of several award-winning novels for both adults and young adults, and numerous articles, poems, and short stories. In addition to her own writing, she is an editorial consultant and president of the Barbara Casey Agency, established in 1995, representing authors throughout the United States, Great Britain, Canada, and Japan. In 2014 Barbara became a partner in Strategic Media Books Publishing, an independent publishing house that specializes in true crime and other cutting-edge adult nonfiction. Barbara lives on a mountain in Georgia with her three cats who adopted her.

Connect

http://www.barbaracaseyagency.com/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/697572.Barbara_Casey

Spotlight: Herlot of Alonia by Maria Rosestone

The Herlot of Alonia Series, Book 1

Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Young Adult Fantasy

Published: April 7, 2020

Publisher: Book Baby

Experience a heroine's journey through magic, battle, and ancient secrets in HERLOT OF ALONIA, the first book in a medieval fantasy series.

In the small village of Alonia, tucked away in the kingdom of Eraska, a baby girl named Herlot is born into the world beneath a full moon and a grove of willow trees. Herlot is healthy and clearly touched by magic, which forever marks her as an outsider. The people of Alonia worry that the strange events that surround Herlot mean she is a bad omen, but Herlot learns to rely on her imagination and makes new friends, like the unicorn Devotio, folding herself into the magical world around her.

“No matter what happens, the stars can see you....You’re never alone.”

Just as Herlot turns eighteen and has found her place in her village, the kingdom of Eraska is invaded by the evil King Felix--a man willing to perform unspeakable acts in his search for a source of power to conquer all. It is time for Herlot to find her voice, embrace her magic, and save her people.

Buy on Amazon | Audible | Bookshop.org

About Author

Maria Rosestone is a historian and instructional designer who can always be found with a book. She particularly likes ancient and medieval history. If she is not researching or writing, she loves to go for nature walks with her family and dog.

Connect:

Website: https://www.mariarosestone.com/

Spotlight: Wronged and Respected - The Gentleman's Valiant Wife by Bree Wolf

#6 Love’s Second Chance Series: Highland Tales

Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Highland Romance, Scottish Romance

Date Published: September 8, 2022

In this Regency romance by USA Today bestselling and HOLT Medallion winning author BREE WOLF, a bitter Scotsman and a French lass find themselves running from a painful past and toward a shared future…if only they knew.

Ian MacDrummond is no more. He died three years ago off the Scottish Coast. In his stead, IAN STEWART now stands upon the deck of the Chevalier Noire, a French privateer. Tasked with a most urgent mission, Ian comes to realize that his past may not be as dead as he had thought—or hoped!—when his path crosses that of a young woman.

NOELLE CLEMENT had been happy once. Happy and in love. Now, all is lost—even her precious child. Unwilling to give up, Noelle accepts aid from the Duret family, who place a rather taciturn Scotsman at her side. Still, before long, Noelle comes to see that they have more in common than she thought.

As they rush to unearth the whereabouts of Noelle’s daughter, an old enemy closes in on them, threatening not only their tentative bond but also those they hold dear. In the end, it all comes down to one question: how far are we willing to go for those we love?

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org

About the Author

USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of the LOVE'S SECOND CHANCE SERIES. Bree Wolf has always been a language enthusiast (though not a grammarian!) and is rarely found without a book in her hand or her fingers glued to a keyboard. Trying to find her way, she has taught English as a second language, traveled abroad and worked at a translation agency as well as a law firm in Ireland. She also spent loooong years obtaining a BA in English and Education and a MA in Specialized Translation while wishing she could simply be a writer. Although there is nothing simple about being a writer, her dreams have finally come true.

"A big thanks to my fairy godmother!"

Currently, Bree has found her new home in the historical romance genre, writing Regency novels and novellas. Enjoying the mix of fact and fiction, she occasionally feels like a puppet master, forcing her characters into ever-new situations that will put their strength, their beliefs, their love to the test, hoping that in the end they will triumph and get the happily-ever-after we are all looking for.

If you're an avid reader, sign up for Bree's newsletter at www.breewolf.com as she has the tendency to simply give books away. As a welcome gift, you also receive a book for FREE. Find out about freebies, giveaways as well as occasional advance reader copies and read before the book is even on the shelves!

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BookBuzz: https://book-buzz.net/regency-romance-wronged-and-respected-the-gentlemans-valiant-wife-by-bree-wolf/

Spotlight: The Sweetest Game by Cookie O’Gorman

Publication date: September 8th 2022
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance, Sports

Hopelessly in love with my best friend’s brother.

That’s what it will say on my tombstone. Here lies Junior “June” Dorsey. Tomboy. Car lover. Bookworm. She suffered from a severe case of unrequited love syndrome.

It’s not like I haven’t tried liking other guys. I have. It’s just none of them measure up to him.

Baylor O’Brien. Beautiful. Cocky. Talented (on the field and in the bedroom—or so I’ve heard).

And completely oblivious to my love for him.

When Bay asks for my help, I can’t say no. He needs my PR expertise to revamp his reputation and up his chances of being scouted after one scout—the one he really wants—dismisses him as nothing more than a party-loving playboy.

When he asks me to be his fake girlfriend, I accept his proposal.

But how am I supposed to act like I’m in love without revealing the truth? And why is Baylor so good at pretending?

One thing I know that’s true:

All’s fair in love and baseball.

Wish me luck,

June

This new adult sports romance features two friends destined to become lovers, one sizzling fake romance, and a sexy set of brothers guaranteed to make you swoon.

Excerpt

After the other girls walked away, I'd opened my mouth to speak, to tell her she was brilliant, a miracle worker, the best buffer ever, but when Sunshine turned around the scowl on her face stopped me.  She took my hand and started walking.  She didn't stop until we were in the kitchen where she opened the door to the pantry, pulled me inside, closed the door and crossed her arms.

"Sunshine, I can explain," I said, but she held up a hand.

"True or false," she said, "you've been with those girls before."

"False," I said.  "One hundred percent false.  They tried in the past, but I've never taken them to bed."

"But you've taken others."

I shrugged helplessly.  "You know the answer to that."

"True or false, you wanted to go with them just now."

"False."

"True or false"—she cocked her head to the side—"you told people I was off limits."

I stared into her eyes then said, "True."

She put one hand on her hip, used the other to poke me in the chest.  "What were you thinking, Bay?"

"I just wanted to keep you safe."

Her laughter was cold.  "As if I'd need you to do that."

I was starting to get a little pissed now.  "You do need me.  You have no idea what guys can be like.  Most of my teammates are decent, but none of them is good enough for you."

"I think I could've determined that on my own."

"You don't even know when a guy wants you.  Take Seaver."

Her eyes narrowed.  "What about him?"

"He was hitting on you at the garage."  She scoffed, but I kept going.  "Seriously, Sunshine.  Guys are jerks."

"You mean like you?"

"Yes," I said, taking a step closer.  "I am a jerk.  But I'm a jerk who cares for you.  Deeply."

She shook her head.  "You told them I was off limits."

"Yeah."

"And what made you think you had the right to do that?"

"I had every right," I said.

"Oh really, why?"

"Because you were mine."

I took a step closer, watching her eyes flare.

"You are mine," I said.

The reality of my words didn't hit me until a few moments later.  I didn't know how to take it back, wasn't sure I wanted to.

"Bay," she said, and I looked down into her eyes, "are you ever going to kiss me again?"

I swallowed.  Suddenly, I realized I wanted that more than anything.  "I guess as your love coach I probably should."

She nodded.

"It'll give you some practice for that asshole you have a crush on."

"He's not an asshole," she said.  "Though he can be a jerk sometimes."

"I hate him," I said vehemently.

My words hit her lips.  We were that close now.

She swallowed.  "How will I know if someone wants me?"

Her words distracted me from the all-consuming hatred I felt toward her crush, and I forced a grin.

"He'll probably try to get real close," I said.  "Like this."

Her breath came faster as I pressed my body to hers.

"He'll also compliment you, say things to make you laugh, just to see you smile."  My hand went to her face, fingers resting on her lips.  "You've got a great one of those, Sunshine."

"What else?" she asked.

"He'll look at you like you're the only girl in the world."

I met her eyes.

"If he's smart, he'll realize he'll never measure up."

She took a shuddering breath when my hand moved into her hair.

"But that won't stop him from trying."

I didn't even know what I was saying anymore.  I just knew I had to taste those lips.

"If he really wants you, then you'll be able to feel it.  In every look, touch, kiss, that he gives you.  It'll be there."

"Oh," she breathed.

"That's how you'll know."

"I think I'm ready for you to kiss me now."

"As you wish, Sunshine," I said.

My lips came down on hers, and heat burst to life between us.  The spark I'd felt before was nothing to now.  This was fire.  Pure fire.  I had Sunshine in my arms, and she was burning me up.  And I loved every second of it.

Buy on Amazon

About the Author

Cookie O'Gorman writes YA & NA romance to give readers a taste of happily-ever-after. Small towns, quirky characters, and the awkward yet beautiful moments in life make up her books. Cookie also has a soft spot for nerds and ninjas. Her novels ADORKABLE, NINJA GIRL, The Unbelievable, Inconceivable, Unforeseeable Truth About Ethan Wilder, The Good Girl's Guide to Being Bad, WALLFLOWER, CUPCAKE, and FAUXMANCE are out now! She is also the author of NA sports romances, The Best Mistake, The Perfect Play, and The Sweetest Game.

Connect:
http://cookieogorman.com/
https://twitter.com/CookieOwrites
https://www.facebook.com/cookieogorman
https://www.bookbub.com/profile/cookie-o-gorman
https://www.instagram.com/cookieogorman/
https://mailchi.mp/bdb1d9c56ae7/the-cookie-jar
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14924267.Cookie_O_Gorman

Spotlight: Shy Girls Can’t Date Billionaires by Milly Rose

Publication date: September 5th 2022
Genres: Comedy, Romance, Young Adult

I never existed until the wrong guy took notice...

I was born shy. And near him, I fall apart. No wonder he can’t stand the sight of me.

After a fire destroys our home, my family is taken in by a billionaire tycoon. His mansion has countless bedrooms, yet my room is next door to his son, Thomas Ashworth III. Yes, he’s as pompous as the name suggests. And, for some reason, he hates my guts.

Even though his arrogance drives me crazy, his chiseled features turn me into a stammering, awkward mess. I hate being stuck with someone I can’t stand. And when he does something unexpectedly kind, it confuses my heart.

When I bump into him in the middle of the night, I’d never guess it lead to us sharing secrets.

He’s impossible to get out of my head. But he wouldn’t consider dating someone like me. Would he?

You will love Christie and Ash. They are stuck together in forced proximity, becoming practically roommates. He is a billionaire, alpha male type who is learning to love. She is the new girl in school, dealing with past trauma. Together they will go from enemies to lovers in an adorable young adult romance.

Excerpt

"Hi," Thomas says, folding his arms across his chest. "What's your first class?"

I stare at him as bags pull under my eyes. My lack of sleep and the adrenaline from panicking have taken their toll.

He unfolds his arms and tilts his head. "What's up?" he asks.

I smooth my clammy palms over my blazer and fidget in my shoes.

"I told you, you don't need to panic," Thomas says, stepping closer to me. "This school is a piece of cake."

I run a hand over my hair and turn my face away from him. I'm gonna lose it again. My insides contort with another urge to launch over a toilet bowl.

"Hey, what's wrong?" he asks, placing a hand on my arm.

I jolt in surprise.

He removes his hand and takes a step back. "Sorry," he says. 

I look away. "It's okay."

Thomas smiles. "Glad you got your voice back." 

I blush, and mumble, "Me too."

"Why do you look so freaked out?" he asks. "They showed you where to go, didn't they?"

I shake my head. "Not exactly."

"What happened when I left? Ms. Thornesmith usually handles everything, so I figured you wouldn't have an issue."

I fidget in my shoes again and turn my head in the other direction, staring at the closed bathroom door.

"A girl offered to show me around. Somewhere along the way, we kinda parted ways... I don't have my schedule, and I don't know where I'm going." Huffing, I pause my ramble to throw my arms in the air. "I don't know what classes I have... and I'm just lost again, like usual."

"Don't sweat it," he says. "I'll take you back to admin, and we'll get you a new schedule. Then I'll show you around."

I cross my arms and let out a tired, "Humph."

"What?"

"You'll show me around?" I say, looking at the floor. It is as confrontational as I get. It's shocking the words have come out of my mouth.

I doubt he'd help me. Why would he?

"Christie, you need to know where you're going. I'll show you where to find your classrooms. It's not a big deal."

"It was a big deal earlier," I say.

It's baffling that I'm continuing with this conversation.

"Hey, I'm sorry," he says, taking another step back. "My parents kind of threw this on me. I already had plans for this morning that I needed to follow through on."

"Fine, whatever," I say, crossing my arms in frustration. "You could have at least told your parents or me that you couldn't show me around. If you had said you couldn't help me, my mom would have come with me." I pull my arms tighter across my midsection. "It'd be better than being alone."

"I'm sorry you felt alone," he says, taking a step forward. "But, be honest, you don't exactly enjoy my company. I assumed you'd be relieved when I left."

His words surprised me. I look up to meet his eyes, finding them filled with sincerity.

"What do you mean?" I ask.

He puffs a laugh and slides his hand into his trouser pockets. "Don't act like you don't hate when I'm around."

I place a hand over my heart. "Me?"

"You're always judging me."

"I haven't said anything bad to you."

A nervous laugh seeps out of him. "You don't have to say it. It's in your eyes. I know you can't stand me."

Buy on Amazon

About the Author

Milly Rose is an animal-loving romance enthusiast with a swoon-inducing book formula. Shy girl + hot guy + first kisses. Her YA sweet romance books will have you falling in love every instalment. Milly Rose is the quintessential shy girl, who you can contact via her mailing list and reply to her monthly email blasts! Milly spends her days vying for her cat’s affection, dreaming up her next book boyfriend, and writing a fun meet-cute under candlelight with a lovely brewed cup of tea.

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