Audiobook Spotlight: Fallen Raven by Diana A. Hicks

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(Raven Duet, #1)

Publication date: September 21st 2023

Genres: Adult, Romance

Synopsis:

Now a 2023 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Romance – Contemporary genre!

Seventeen-year-old Aurora Vitali didn’t have the best life in Las Vegas, but it was a place to call home. When her father scores a win after so many fails, he abruptly moves the whole family to the Upper East Side in New York City. Aurora is quickly seduced by the glitz and glamour of her new world, where designer clothes, limos, and beach parties are the norm.

Her first day at their elite school, she meets Enzo Alfera, one of the royals. He’s rich, gorgeous, and so dangerous. The magnetic pull she feels when he’s near is absolutely irresistible. She’s warned to stay away, and that’s exactly what she plans to do. Except every time their paths cross, neither one of them can deny their powerful attraction.

Going against their parents’ wishes, they give into their burning desires. He’s dark and cunning. She’s sweet and innocent. Together, they are explosive.

But their parents have plans of their own. The choices they make to get ahead threaten to pull Aurora and Enzo apart. Now the star-crossed lovers have to decide if their forbidden love is worth going against everything and everyone.

Enzo knows what he wants. And he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep Aurora for himself. If he fails, it could destroy them both.

A Note from Diana: Fallen Raven is book one in the Raven Duet, which is a standalone romance in the Society World featuring Enzo Alfera and Aurora Vitali. This modern day Romeo and Juliet retelling is about never letting go. Check TW

This book features:

✔️ He falls first

✔️ Star-Crossed lovers

✔️ Angst, family feud

✔️ Forbidden love

Excerpt

“We’ll decide on Saturday then.” I made to get up, but Donata gripped my shoulder.

“I still need to tell you something about Rory.” She waited until I settled back into my folding chair.

“So what do you have on her? Any boyfriends we should know about?” Rex asked. This was his territory. Rex knew secrets made the world go round.

I turned my attention to Donata. All this time, I hadn’t considered the idea that Aurora might already be in love with someone else.

“No boyfriend.” She beamed, thoroughly pleased with herself. “A fiancé.”

“What the fuck?” I stood. “She’s getting married?”

“She is.” Donata nodded.

“Oh, you’re good.” Santino chuckled, pointing a finger at Donata.

“Thank you.”

“What’s the deal there?” I could tell them that I knew for a fact Aurora wasn’t in love. And that the reason I knew that was because I was her first kiss. If Aurora had a fiancé, it couldn’t possibly be a love match. “There has to be more to that story.”

“Here’s what I know from a little recon I did.”

“You overheard one of your aunt’s conversations, didn’t you?” I shook my head at her.

“Yes.” She put up her hands. “But you have to admit, the plan is solid. We stick it to her pompous dad while having a little fun ourselves.”

“What did you hear?”

“Her dad has arranged a marriage between her and Angelo Soprano. Pretty much as soon as she turns eighteen in December. My aunt believes that Stephano, Rory’s dad, is under the impression that he needs family ties to make sure his place within the Society is secured.” She pursed her lips and swallowed. “I’ve met that guy before. He’s a total creep. Puke.” She fake-gagged.

So that was her angle. Deep down, Donata lived up to her family’s name and ideals. The Salvatores’ mascot was the panther—the fierce guardian—for a reason.

“Has she agreed to this marriage?” No sense anymore in pretending I didn’t care. Technically speaking, I didn’t, though I was intrigued.

“I don’t know if she knows. Her birthday is in three months.” She shrugged. “By then, she’ll know for sure. Think of it this way, thanks to us, she’ll go into the marriage knowing what it’s like to do it for love.”

“Donata, the romantic.” I leaned in to pinch her cheek, but she slapped my hand away.

Even if her intentions were weirdly noble, this bet was going to mess with Aurora’s head in a major way. Fuck. So not only did I have to put up with Rex and Santino having a go at her, she was going to be Angelo’s wife. As in, forever, only fucking him.

“Are you guys still in? Because according to Aunt Vittoria, Angelo was in the market for a virgin bride. If he gets to his wedding night and finds out he was duped, he’ll retaliate against her father. Possibly her family.” Donata didn’t seem that concerned with Aurora’s dad’s well-being.

“I’m in.” Rex spoke first. “You wanted epic. I’d say sex and murder qualify as epic.”

“So let me get this straight. We have to pop her cherry before she gets married.” Santino rubbed his jaw.

“Clock’s ticking.” Donata tapped her watch twice.

“Fuck it. I’m still in.”

“And you, Enzo?” Donata turned to me. “Have you changed your mind? Is the bet challenging enough for you now?”

“You’re kind of sick. You know that?” I raked both hands through my hair.

“That’s why you love me.” She beamed.

At first, I’d said no to the bet because I didn’t want a reason to be near Aurora or talk to her. She had a certain influence over me, and I didn’t like it. That was before I knew she belonged to someone else—before I knew I couldn’t have her. I was no knight in shining armor. I wasn’t here to save Aurora from a creep ten years her senior. No, I wanted Aurora for myself.

“Yes, I’m in.”

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About the Author

Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.

When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.

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Spotlight: Diary of an Artist in Love by The Muse Frequency

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Publication date: August 15th 2023

Genres: Adult, Poetry

Synopsis:

A slender, beautifully illustrated volume of 30 poems, enumerating love in all its configurations and crucibles: through enchantment, presence, magnetism, illusion, nature, restlessness, wonder, and memories that rise from our past, and follow us into our future.

Readers will be immersed in a series of 15 poems called “Love is” I through XV, with 15 additional poems that sit between them, threading the eye of the needle that we call love, with topics that seem to successively build on one another and chronicle the different phases of this intangible marvel that rules our lives.

These poems include:

· “We Start Here”

· “Stay With Me”

· “Wondering”

· “Beautiful Things”

· “Limitless”

For seekers, artists, lovers, moon-gazers, anyone that dares to glimpse the beating heart within, this collection is a goldmine of inspiration and magical fairy dust.

On Audible

Diary of an Artist in Love is an intimate new audiobook of prose poetry best listened to with headphones on and eyes closed. The Muse Frequency presents listeners with a calming and ethereal meditation on love. Throughout this profoundly serene and uplifting experience, the artist and sound designer gently coax us into a meditative state using Solfeggio frequencies and by communicating in the most direct possible way through a sacred one-on-one conversation.

Originally inspired by the work of diarist Anaïs Nin, The Muse Frequency aims to design an audio experience that feels confessional and personal. At the heart of it all, this wholly unique project creates intimate experiences meant for one listener, where they can close their eyes, shut out the rest of the world and drift off to beautiful places.

Sound Design for Audiobook by Sébastien Nouat

Buy on Amazon | Audible

About the Author

The Muse Frequency is an artist, poet and producer working with musicians and creators around the world to design immersive and meditative experiences. 

Connect:

https://www.themusefrequency.com/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/42524014.The_Muse_Frequency

Spotlight: Be the One by J.H. Croix

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Release Date: October 9

A small town, billionaire holiday romance from USA Today Bestselling Author J.H. Croix!

We’re just friends.

That’s all we’ll ever be.

The list of nevers when it comes to Quinn Blackthorne is long. I never looked at her like that. I never noticed how delectable she is. I never kissed her. I never even wanted to kiss her.

We’ve never crossed that line. She’s my best friend. Just my friend.

Until I want so much more. I just might want everything with her.

Kenan & Quinn’s story is perfect for readers who love small town romance, tangled family ties, broody/grumpy heroes, sassy heroines, friends to lovers, slow burn, emotional romance with a dash of angst, oodles of swoon, and a billionaire protective hero who will do anything for the woman he loves.

*A full-length, standalone romance.

Buy on Amazon

Meet J.H. Croix:

USA Today Bestselling Author J. H. Croix lives in a small town in Maine with her husband and two spoiled dogs. She writes swoony contemporary romance with sassy women and alpha men who aren't afraid to show some emotion. Her love for quirky small-towns and the characters that inhabit them shines through in her writing. When she’s not writing, you can find her cooking, counting the turtles in her backyard pond, and running with her dogs, which is when her best plotting happens. 

Keep up with J.H. Croix and subscribe to her newsletter: https://jhcroixauthor.com/subscribe/

To learn more about J.H. Croix & her books, visit here!

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Spotlight: Along the Dusty Road by Joey Jones

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Publication date: October 5th 2023

Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance, Suspense

Synopsis:

An unexpected love. A surprising second chance.

Everything Luke Bridges always wanted is in the small coastal North Carolina town where he has spent most of his twenty-six years—a fulfilling mental health therapy career, a loving family, baseball games with his dad, an adventurous beach life, and a close-knit group of friends. The only piece missing is someone to share it with, a genuine and lasting love that satisfies the soul.

He once thought Emily Beckett, the girl he dated ten years ago who has happened back into his life as his sidekick on the coed beach volleyball team, could be that someone. Emily has a seven-year-old son and an ex-husband with dangerous addictions. Although Luke enjoys spending time with Ayden, he has no interest in the challenges of being a stepfather.

Luke only dates women he can see himself marrying. With the “just friends” title firmly placed on his relationship with Emily, he agrees to a blind date with Mindy, his mentor’s cousin. As he explores a connection with Mindy, the “just friends” veil with Emily is suddenly ripped away. Now he is torn between two very different women—one who might be perfectly right for him and one who doesn’t seem to fit the mold but just might make his dreams of forever come true.

Fears, tragedy, love, and second chances all collide Along the Dusty Road.

Excerpt

Stargazing on a blanket near the ocean hadn’t been on my agenda for the night, but I certainly was elated it turned out this way.

“It’s getting a little cool out here,” Emily said after pointing out several constellations.

“I can run inside and grab another blanket to use as a cover,” I offered.

She shook her head from side to side. I waited a moment and then scooted close to her.

“That’s what I hoped you’d do,” she admitted.

I wasn’t sure if she also hoped I would roll onto my side, gaze into her deep blue eyes, run my fingers through her soft hair, and then gently kiss her shivering lips—but that’s exactly what I did next.

Beyond us, waves rolled one over the other; the seabirds called out through the gentle breeze; and ships sailed in the distance.

Emily’s thin lips tasted like perfection, and I found myself caught in a moment more intimidating than anything I had done in a long time. I felt her body flush against mine, causing my insides to tremble ever so slightly. Our lips moved together, slowly and passionately, as if dancing to the most romantic song the Universe ever played. Before I could think about what was happening between us, I realized her arm caressed the back of my head and her leg wrapped around my thigh.

I desired this moment for so long even longer than I realized. To touch her soft skin and to sense the tiny movements between our bodies felt good. Her perfume tickled my nose as I kissed her neck. She turned slightly, and I continued to navigate my way across her collarbone with my lips. At the same time she rubbed my back with her hand barely digging her fingernails into my skin causing me to want more of her. Yet this was just enough. Kissing her. Touching her. This was intimacy.

What was happening between Emily and me at this very moment meant way more to me than any encounter I talked myself into on lonely nights. It was real, and I think it meant as much to her as it did to me. I could tell this by how our eyes locked every time we looked at one another. Even though we kept our clothes on as we rolled around on a blanket by the sea for nearly thirty minutes, I felt as though I already made love to Emily Beckett.

Buy on Amazon

About the Author

The writing style of Joey Jones has been described as a mixture of Nicholas Sparks, Richard Paul Evans, and James Patterson. USA Today Bestselling Author Jeff Gunhus compared Jones’ work to Debbie Macomber, Nicholas Evans, and Sparks. National Bestselling Author Kristy Woodson Harvey described Joey Jones’ writing as “lyrical” and proclaims “he effortlessly pulls readers into the souls of his characters.”

The ratings and reviews of Jones’ novels A BRIDGE APART (2015), LOSING LONDON (2016), A FIELD OF FIREFLIES (2018), and THE DATE NIGHT JAR (2019) reflect the comparison to the aforementioned New York Times bestselling authors.

Joey Jones fell in love with creative writing at a young age and decided in his early twenties that he wanted to write a book. His debut novel A BRIDGE APART is a suspenseful love story that was years in the making as he tinkered with the story off and on while working full-time in the marketing field. In February 2016, Jones became a full-time novelist and published his second novel LOSING LONDON later that year. Three of Jones’ novels have earned 4.8 out of 5.0 Amazon stars.

In his spare time, Joey enjoys spending time with his family, playing sports, working out, reading, and writing inspirational quotes. His favorite meal is a New York Style Pizza with sweet tea. He won the 8th-grade spelling bee at his school, but if you ask him how many students participated, he might say, “Such minor details are not important!” He currently lives in North Carolina with his family.

Joey Jones earned a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Maryland University College where he graduated with honors (2006). He was the owner of a full-service advertising agency and taught business and marketing courses as an adjunct college instructor.

Jones invites you to connect with him online to find out more about his upcoming novels, book signings, giveaways, exciting news, charities, and more.

Connect:
https://joey-jones.com/
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Cover Reveal: Centaur Rift by Ellie Horn

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Genre: Dark Why Choose Romance

Release Date: October 13th 

About Centaur Rift:  

I thought I understood the way the world worked. Family was something other people had. Trust was rarely rewarded. Survival depended upon a clever mind and a strong body.

Until a stallion in a corn field proved that everything I had believed was a lie.

Because he wasn’t exactly a horse. Hung like one, yes. But this former centaur shifts to six and a half feet of gorgeous warrior who houses a destructive secret.

When he tells me he’s from another realm, I decide he’s more broken than he seems. To make matters worse, he takes me through a portal—and reveals that werewolves and dragons are real. But that isn’t the biggest surprise.

Turns out I have a few secrets of my own.

Who knew?

The Warrior Hearts Academy Centaur Trilogy is a dark, slow-burn, paranormal/fantasy romance where the strong female main character has many love interests that she doesn’t have to choose between. A Happily Ever After is guaranteed in book three. The subject matter within is only suitable for mature readers. To avoid spoilers, if you have specific triggers, please contact the author to discuss whether this trilogy is right for you.

Exclusive Excerpt:

When Marcus appeared, I was momentarily caught off guard. With his messy, damp hair, fresh-scrubbed look, and tee shirt and sweats that actually fit, he suddenly looked much younger.

Still a bloody big guy, but more human. And sexy as hell.

I wrenched my gaze away from him and bent to pull the chicken out of the oven. Sitting at the table, we both gobbled the wings down as though we hadn’t seen food in eons.

Then I basically shoved Marcus down the hall and into the spare room. Considering the thoughts cruising through my head, manhandling him may not have been the best idea, but it was the only way to get him to move.

He only did so to be polite. Touching him was like touching stone. He was that hard. No way I could have moved him if he hadn’t decided to give to my wishes.

“Cara will be back soon—” he protested.

“She told you to rest. And that is what you should do,” I insisted.

His eyes sparked golden fire at me as the door closed. I paused outside for a moment, seized with the overwhelming urge to follow him in. But then I remembered the presence looming over me in the shower. And I reminded myself that until I found balance in this new life, jumping into bed with an ex-Centaur that sprouted wicked claws at unexpected times might not be the best idea…

Buy on Amazon

About the Author: 

Ellie Horn--A dark fantasy writing duo that doesn't take themselves too seriously.

Connect with the Author: Website | Facebook | Newsletter | Amazon 

Spotlight: Bewitched at the Bash by J.C. Valentine

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(A Coffee Break Mystery, #1)

Publication date: October 4th 2023

Genres: Adult, Mystery, Romance

Synopsis:

Bakery owner Lucy is focused on growing her small business when her matchmaking best friend insists she attend the annual Halloween bash in their quaint town to meet some new romantic prospects. Although reluctant, Lucy dons her Day of the Dead costume and shows off her festive Halloween-themed cupcakes at the party. But when her signature treats vanish, Lucy switches to detective mode to uncover the confectionary thief.

Amidst the outrageous costumes, apple bobbing, and spooky decor, she finds an unlikely assistant in Sam, the handsome new firefighter in town. As they team up to solve the sweet mystery of the stolen cupcakes, Lucy wonders if she’s met her perfect match. Will brave Sam fan the flames of romance with shy Lucy, or disappear like her vanished cupcakes by the end of the kooky Halloween night?

Excerpt

I frantically checked every inch of the kitchen, high and low, even in the cool professional-grade oven that I briefly wished I’d had the opportunity to test out for this occasion, but there was absolutely no sign of my cupcake creations. Someone had clearly taken them. There was no other explanation.

Panic surged through me, and I spun around and punched open the door and called out for Marie right away. "The cupcakes are gone!" I shouted in panic and despair.

"Wait, what? Are you sure?" Marie responded, her head popping up from laying out the last of the cookies. She appeared baffled as she rushed to my side and saw for herself that the kitchen was empty of any more baked goods.

I recounted searching every possible place in the kitchen they could be, tears stinging my eyes. “I worked so hard on those.” Weeks of baking and freezing and crafting the flavors and planning. Now it was all gone.

Dismayed, Marie grabbed me up for a quick hug and set me free again, determination in her light eyes. “I’ll go ask the servers if any of them maybe moved them somewhere. They have to be around here. Cupcakes don’t just get up and walk away!” She was already gone, leaving the swinging door batting back and forth behind her.

It didn’t matter what she promised though. Like a mother’s sixth sense about the safety of her children, I knew, deep down, that the cupcakes were gone.

Buy on Amazon

About the Author

J.C. Valentine is the USA Today and International bestselling author of the Night Calls and Wayward Fighters Series and the Forbidden Trilogy. Her vivid imagination and love of words and romance had her penning her own romance stories from an early age, which, despite being poorly edited and written longhand, she forced friends and family members to read. No, she isn't sorry. 

Living in the Northwest, she has three amazing children and far too many pets. Among the many hats she wears, J.C. is an entrepreneur. Having graduated with honors, she holds a Bachelor's in English and when she isn't writing, you can find her editing for fellow authors. 

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