Wednesday Books Presents: The Dyasters + Giveaway!!!






P.C. and Kristin Cast, the #1 New York Times bestselling authors of the House of Night phenomenon, return to the scene with The Dysasters—the first action-packed novel in a new paranormal fantasy series.

Adoptive daughter of a gifted scientist, Foster Stewart doesn’t live a “normal” life, (not that she’d want to). But controlling cloud formations and seeing airwaves aren’t things most eighteen year olds can do.

Small town star quarterback and quintessential dreamy boy next door, Tate “Nighthawk” Taylor has never thought much about his extra abilities. Sure, his night vision comes in handy during games, but who wouldn’t want that extra edge?

From the moment Foster and Tate collide, their worlds spiral and a deadly tornado forces them to work together, fully awakening their not-so-natural ability - the power to control air.

As they each deal with the tragic loss of loved ones, they’re caught by another devastating blow – they are the first in a group of teens genetically manipulated before birth to bond with the elements, and worse… they’re being hunted.

Now, Foster and Tate must fight to control their abilities as they learn of their past, how they came to be, who’s following them, and what tomorrow will bring… more DYSASTERS?



BUY LINKS





My Thoughts

P.C. and Kristin cast are back!
And this time they are making story time magic of the X-Men -request variety.
With their first book in what looks to be a very promising high action, paranormal, YA
The Dyasters is the perfect read for those who love takes of good against evil.
A race to find your genetically engineered, element controlling, and in most cases totally unaware tribe.
While discovering who you are as a powerful and unique individual.
And for some...
Even managing to fall in love in the process.

Meet Foster and Tate.  The first pair of "wonder twins".  Who meet under what can only be described as disastrous circumstances.  Which cost them both the people that mean most to them.
And brings them and the world face to face with both their power as air elementals, and those who hunt them.

Topping the list of things to get excited about.
The fact that all of the "wonder twins" are 18+.
Yes...
They are indeed young adults.
Giving this book and it's series a chance to get where it's going without awkward adolescent transitions when members of the cast "grow up."
 The 18+ age factor also makes quite the difference when one takes into account the 30+ adults making up the team sent out by their mad scientist creator to find them.

Not so lovingly referred to within the story as the Fucktastic Four.  Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Eve are the first generation of elementals produced by the mad Dr. Rick.
And to say that their power is causing them a few unwanted "issues" would be the height of oversimplification.
Between Eve's gemstone tumors, and her brothers' element related mental issues.
It is no wonder that their "at any cost" hunt for the "wonder twins" is as compelling as it is.
Even if the elder statesmen of this read do come off as a bit too trusting and naive at times.

The character incorporation within this tale spider webs out from Tate and Foster like a degree of separation chart.  With each new addition bringing a very readable backstory with them. As they merge into the ever-expanding collective.

This book is very fast paced.  Easily read in one sitting.
There is just the right amount of action, suspense, emotionality, and even romance; to keep pages turning.
This is definitely a book that one can "get lost in".
With a plot that keeps one reading just as much for the who's, why's, and where's of the puzzle it presents.  As for the myriad of supporting elements of the story.

Reviewer's Note.
This book is the first book of a series. Due to the fact that it is written to be continuous, however.  It is highly suggested that it be read as part of its intended series.



ABOUT THE AUTHORS
#1 New York Times & #1 USA Today bestselling author P.C. Cast was born in the Midwest, and, after her tour in the USAF, she taught high school for 15 years before retiring to write full time. PC is a member of the Oklahoma Writers Hall of Fame. Her novels have been awarded the prestigious: Oklahoma Book Award, YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers, Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award, Booksellers' Best, and many, many more. Ms. Cast is an experienced teacher and talented speaker who lives in Oregon near her fabulous daughter, her adorable pack of dogs, her crazy Maine Coon, and a bunch of horses.

Kristin Cast is a #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today bestselling author who teams with her mother to write the wildly successful House of Night series. She has editorial credits, a thriving t-shirt line, and a passion for all things paranormal. When away from her writing desk, Kristin loves going on adventures with her friends, family, and significant other, playing with her dogs (Grace Kelly and Hobbs the Tiny Dragon), and is currently obsessed with her baby.


SWEEPSTAKES
Enter for a chance to win 1 of 20 hardcover copies!  Winners will be selected at random.



Abbreviated Rules: No purchase necessary. Open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia or Canada (excluding Quebec) who are age 13 years of age or older. Entry period begins at 12:00 a.m. (ET) on Sunday, February 24, 2019 and ends at 11:59 PM ET on Sunday, March 10, 2019. Void where prohibited. For full Official Rules, visit https://read.macmillan.com/promo/thedysastersblogtoursweepstakes. Sponsored by St. Martin's Press, 175 5th Ave 10010.


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P.C. Cast
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Avon Books Presents: Lady Derring Takes A Lover

A mistress. A mountain of debt. A mysterious wreck of a building.
Delilah Swanpoole, Countess of Derring, learns the hard way that her husband, “Dear Dull Derring,” is a lot more interesting—and perfidious—dead than alive. It’s a devil of an inheritance, but in the grand ruins of the one building Derring left her, are the seeds of her liberation. And she vows never again to place herself at the mercy of a man.

But battle-hardened Captain Tristan Hardy is nothing if not merciless. When the charismatic naval hero tracks a notorious smuggler to a London boarding house known as the Rogue’s Palace, seducing the beautiful, blue-blooded proprietress to get his man seems like a small sacrifice.
They both believe love is a myth. But a desire beyond reason threatens to destroy the armor around their hearts. Now a shattering decision looms: Will Tristan betray his own code of honor…or choose a love that might be the truest thing he’s ever known?

Please enjoy this EXCERPT from
Lady Derring Takes A Lover


EXCERPT
She’d taken two steps when he said, his voice raised only a little, “Lady Derring . . . something
puzzles me.”

She halted.

Closed her eyes.

Took a shuddering breath for courage.

Turned back to him. From the relatively safe distance of three feet, she said, “Surely not. We’ve established you know everything.”

His smile was small and patient. “You seem to excel at so very much here at The Grand Palace on the Thames. Yet you can’t seem to disguise how much you want me.”


My Thoughts

When Delilah Swanpool, Countess of Derring finds herself short one husband.  But very long on debt incurred without her knowledge. And now the very real bane of her dwindling existence at his unexpected death.
Left with only her determination, the friendship of his mistress, one Angelique Breedlove, and a dilapidated building down by the docks of the Thames.
Delilah decides that she will never again love her life at the mercy of another man.
At any cost.
Just as it seems that Delilah and her new friend seem to have a handle on their burgeoning futures.
Turning the once shabby Palace of Rogues into a very respectful boarding house.  Now called The Palace On The Thames.

But what these ladies have no way of knowing is that the man that they both loved left a lurid legacy behind.
Filled with secrets that could cost them their hard won freedom, their business, and even their lives.

Lady Derring Takes A Lover is a wonderful story of strength, perseverance, and quirky friendships.  As per Angelique.
With other elements of the story ranging from a rather tedious study in "spot and dodge".  In the case of the mystery surrounding her late husband.  And his ties to Delilah's business.
Or...
" Oh baby let's fall into a whirlwind romance that makes no sense. "
In the case of the  "wtf romance between Tristan and Delilah.
Which only serves to distract one from what would have been a very good mystery.
There also seemed to be far less overall action than a plot of this direction requires.



About Julie Anne
USA Today bestselling author Julie Anne Long originally set out to be a rock star when she grew up (and she has the guitars and fringed clothing stuffed in the back of her closet to prove it), but writing was always her first love. Since hanging up her guitar for the computer keyboard, her books frequently top reader and critic polls and have been nominated for numerous awards, including the Rita, Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice, and The Quills, and reviewers have been known to use words like “dazzling,” “brilliant,” and “impossible to put down” when describing them. Julie lives in Northern California.




AUTHOR SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES
 julieannelong.com/
 www.facebook.com/AuthorJulieAnneLong
 twitter.com/JulieAnneLong

The Giveaway
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Lady Derring Takes A Lover

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Romance Is Hot...And The Search For A Killer Is Hotter In "Extreme Honor"

25521670
Title:  Extreme Honor
Series:  True Heroes #1
Author:  Piper J. Drake
Length: 316 pages
Publisher:  Forever
Rating:  3.5 Stars

Hot military heroes, the women who love them, and the dogs that always have their backs. EXTREME HONOR is the first book in a high adrenaline contemporary suspense series from Piper J. Drake.

HONOR, LOYALTY, LOVE

David Cruz is good at two things: war and training dogs. The ex-soldiers toughest case is Atlas, a Belgian Malinois whose handler died in combat. Nobody at Hope's Crossing Kennel can break through the animal's grief. That is, until dog whisperer Evelyn Jones walks into the facility . . . and into Atlas's heart. David hates to admit that the curvy blonde's mesmerizing effect isn't limited to canines. But when Lyn's work with Atlas puts her in danger, David will do anything to protect her.

Lyn realizes that David's own battle scars make him uniquely qualified for his job as a trainer. Tough as nails yet gentle when it counts, he's gotten closer to Atlas than anyone else-and he's willing to put his hard-wired suspicion aside to let her do the same. But someone desperate enough to kill doesn't want Lyn working with Atlas. Now only teamwork, trust, and courage can save two troubled hearts and the dog who loves them both . . .


Please Enjoy This Excerpt From
Extreme Honor

Excerpt                                                                                        Her heart rate had picked up, fluttering at the pulse point under his touch.                                                             “Yeah?”                                                                                The urge to slide has hands over more delicate areas grew and he couldn’t help running his thumb along the inside of her arm.                                                                              Awareness grew in her gaze and she bit her lip as she nodded.  He leaned toward her, focused on her plump lip caught under her teeth.                                                                           “What else do you like?”                                                       She opened her mouth to answer but he didn’t plan to let her get a word out. Maybe later. He bent his head to capture her lips.                                                                                       And seventy five pounds of fur jumped up on his side.      “The hell?”
Lyn gasped. “Atlas!”                                                          “Af.” Mindful of the dog’s injury, Cruz gave Atlas a gentle shove.                                                                                    The dog dropped back to all fours, his tongue lolling. Looking from him to Lyn and back again, Atlas lay back down on his belly.                                                                  Jealous. Damn dog was jealous.                                             Be real. Every dog recognizes a fake. And good men can see through it too.                                                                  “I’d really like to help.” Honest. Simple. All the other reasons paled in comparison to this                                        “Whatever is going on, you know more about it than I do.” She licked her lips, her mouth gone dry.His gaze dipped, focusing on her mouth. “I might. I know something. I’m not sure it’s related. But this next question is important.”Can I kiss you?"                                                 Doubtful that was the question he was going to ask. But the moment was drawing out and she very much wanted for him to ask it. “Okay.”                                                                  “Do you think I would hurt you?”                                      “No!” It popped out before she had time to think about it. .Anger burned up from her chest and spread outward. She scowled. “Of course n—                                                         He kissed her.
My Thoughts

Extreme Honor is...
Hmmm...
One of those books that you carry in your purse when you know that you're going somewhere that requires that you pay attention to what is going on around you.
Sort of.
(i.e. Taking the kiddos to "insert mandatory activity" here.)
And waiting.

There is a hot male ex-military canine handler, David Cruz.
An equally hot female civilian canine handler, Evelyn Jones.
Insert inappropriate sexually based inner dialogue "here"

LOTS OF INAPPROPRIATE SEXUALLY BASED INNER DIALOGUE!
On the part of both humans
Who managed to drool over each other within the first chapter of this book so much more than their canine war vet counterpart ever could.
EVER!

Atlas...
A gorgeous Belgian Malinois whose handler died in combat.
Leaving Atlas depressed, alone, and the only one left to tell the secrets behind his death.
If he lives.

This first offering in the True Hero series is, for the most part, a very well written read.
Which manages to give readers a lightening speed plot from beginning to end.
With the leading lady, Lyn becoming an unwitting pawn in the game of some very shady characters.
Very early in the read.  Due to her attachment to Atlas.
Which in turn activates David's "save the princess" response.
And even has Atlas channeling his inner Lassie.  At one point.
All of which is well and good.
But...
There were a few things that...
Well...
Let's just say.
Did not go over well.

The first of which being Lyn's relationship with her military officer father.
Their relationship seems unnecessarily adversarial.  With Lyn's stepfather always questioning her every decision.  Both professional and, awkwardly enough, personally.
Oftentimes making a very capable young woman seem very much the young girl who must earn her father's approval.

Following 'daddy issues at a close second, the whole "drool-fest that was discussed earlier in this review.
Why?????
There was no reason why the fact that these two people found each other "magically delicious" almost to the point of cannibalism at first sight.  Had to be made so glaringly obvious so early in the book.
Their attraction and subsequent romance was the one thing that could have and should have been allowed to evolve slowly amid the otherwise chaotic goings-on that drives this story.

Extreme Honor makes a very good introductory showing for a very fast and heartfelt series.
It must be said however that the few detracting elements of this story do nothing to diminish the overall quality of the read as a whole.  The mystery surrounding the death of Atlas' previous handler and friend.  And the impact of that mystery on all involved.

Reviewer's Note:  This is the first in a loosely related series.  It may be read as a standalone.




About Piper


Piper J. DrakePiper J. Drake is a bestselling author of romantic suspense and edgy contemporary romance, a frequent flyer, and day job road warrior. She is often distracted by dogs, cupcakes, and random shenanigans.


"Logan's Lady" Stake's A Romantic Claim Worth Its Weight In Reader Gold...

40597269
Title:  Logan's Lady
Author:  Rosanne Bittner
Expected Date Of Publication:  March 26th, 2019
Length:  432 pages
Publisher:  Sourcebooks Casablanca
Rating:  5 Stars


Two worlds in conflict
Two hearts intertwined
One love worth fighting for...

Wealthy Englishwoman Lady Elizabeth Baylor longs for adventure. She leaves for America full of hope, only to lose everything to a villain hiding treachery behind his smile. Lost in this strange and lawless land, Elizabeth vows to track down the man who did her wrong...but she can't do it alone. What she needs is someone hardened by the west and unflinching toward its dangers: notorious bounty hunter Logan Best.

Ill-mannered and seemingly ruthless, Logan exorcises his dark past by throwing himself into his vengeful profession—hunting wanted men. There's nothing about the pampered Englishwoman that should call to him, and yet as their adventure takes them across the wild and treacherous west, he realizes he'll do anything to keep her safe...and defend his Lady to his final breath.




Have A Sneak Peek At Logan's Lady
Here!

YAY! Only a little over a month before LOGAN'S LADY becomes available!  Today, I'm posting another excerpt to whet your appetite, but first, I'd like to share two fantastic reviews that I have received this week:

      Now, I can't wait to hear what you, my readers, have to say about this book!  Meanwhile, read on for excerpt #2:
“Is there law now in Denver City?” she asked aloud.
“Of course.”
“I’ve been warned so often about how wild and untamed America’s West can be,” Elizabeth told him. “I’ve read so many stories about it in those penny dreadfuls.”
Alexander laughed richly. “Well, I suppose there is a hint of truth in some of those dime novels, but the West is becoming quite tame, I assure you. There are lawmen and U.S. Marshals who do their best, although some of the cow towns along the railway can get pretty wild when drovers come in with herds of cattle. They even have men who hunt outlaws for bounty. I suppose that, too, is a form of law and order, although some bounty hunters are hardly more than outlaws themselves.”
“Oh, how dreadful! I can’t imagine killing a man for money.”
“To each his own,” Alexander told her.
“Well, I hope I never run into such a man.”
Copyright Rosanne Bittner 2019


My Thoughts

If you are looking for a read brimming with loss, love, and lawlessness.
Just keep reading!
If you seek the story of a woman who cares to leave the pampered yet stifling existence that is her life as an English lady of the aristocracy.
For the adventure,danger, and freedom of the American West.
Just keep reading!
If you want to meet a rough and tumble bounty hunter. With a blazing gun, a heart of gold, and his own brand of justice.
Just keep reading!
If you want your villains down and dirty. And your heroes and heroines even dirtier.
Just keep reading!
And if you want to know just how it is that a delicate English rose, and a thorny American bounty hunter find forever in the Old West.
Just keep reading Logan's Lady. The latest offering from Rosanne Bittner.

This is a read that starts out deceptively predictable. With a very young and idealistic Lady Elizabeth Baylor, and her younger brother William setting out for adventure in America.
Determined to leave behind the rules and tyranny of both their domineering older brother, and the English aristocracy.
Only to meet with misfortune long before even reaching the continent.
Leaving poor Elizabeth alone and a literal "deer in headlights.
Innocent, obscenely wealthy, and painfully ripe pickings for the man posing as her newfound protector.

But fear not.

For this where things start to get interesting. As the reader starts to discover just how bad of a "bad man" Elizabeth's supposed savior is. This also where Logan and the lady's paths start to converge.

It is not long after that that 28% Mark (kindle approximation). That the two meet under very dire circumstances. Beginning the adventure earnestly.

Watching Elizabeth gain her sense of self and become a heroine in her own right. As she and Logan travel across the country to right the wrongs that had been done to her. Is nothing less than stellar.
Adding to this is the "Dirty Harry" style vengeance of leading man Logan.
And the utterly heart stopping romance.

This book's plot is one that blends action, romance, and compelling characters with the lore of the Wild West. To craft a story that would be a dream come true to any believer in fated happily ever after.

Reviewer's Note:
Logan's Lady is a standalone novel.



About Rosanne

I am a USA-TODAY best-selling authors with 35 years, 66 books and numerous writing awards behind me. I am currently working on #67 for my publisher, Sourcebooks. The story is called LOGAN'S LADY and is set for the spring of 2018. My most recent publications are my "Outlaw" books - OUTLAW HEARTS, DO NOT FORSAKE ME, LOVE'S SWEET REVENGE and THE LAST OUTLAW, with a follow-up Christmas story in an anthology called CHRISTMAS IN A COWBOY'S ARMS. This series is a family saga and an unforgettable love story between a wanted man and the woman who changes his life. My most recent Native American story is CAPTURE MY HEART, published by Amazon in 2017. I just finished a sequel, A WARRIOR'S PROMISE, which will be available on Amazon sometime in February, 2018.

For those of you who have not yet read my books, my stories are generally set in the American West of the 1800's and feature vividly-described, historically accurate settings that span the US from Missouri to California, from Canada to Mexico. Many of my books portray the poignant history of our Native Americans, and though the characters are my own, I use real historical locations and events in all my novels.

My biggest-selling books are my SAVAGE DESTINY series of books about the settling of Colorado and its affect on the Cheyenne Indians - SWEET PRAIRIE PASSION, RIDE THE FREE WIND, RIVER OF LOVE, EMBRACE THE WILD LAND, CLIMB THE HIGHEST MOUNTAIN, MEET THE NEW DAWN and EAGLE'S SONG. The series follows one family throughout and is yet another memorable love story for all time.

National magazine ROMANTIC TIMES has called me the "Queen of Western Romance" and an "emotional powerhouse." My husband and I have traveled the west for over 30 years and I have visited just about every location mentioned in my books.

Where To Find Her:  Web / Twitter / Goodreads


Buy The Book

Ohh...Cover Love...St. Martin's Press Presents: This Earl Of Mine




(Bow Street Bachelors #1)
Expected Publication Date:  October 29, 2019
Publisher:  St. Martin's Paperbacks




The first book in a new Regency romance series, an heiress and a rogue accidentally end up in a secret marriage of convenience.

In a desperate bid to keep her fortune out of her cousin’s hands, shipping heiress Georgiana Caversteed marries a condemned criminal in Newgate prison. The scoundrel’s first kiss is shockingly heated, but Georgie never expects to see her husband again. Until she spots him across a crowded ballroom. Notorious rogue Benedict Wylde never expected a wife. He was in Newgate undercover, working for Bow Street. To keep their marriage of convenience a secret, Wylde courts Georgie in public, but the more time they spend together, the more their attraction sparks. Could an heiress with the world at her feet find happiness with a penniless rake? Kate Bateman's This Earl of Mine is a delightful start to the Bow Street Bachelors series, with witty banter, dynamic characters, and swoon-worthy romance.






Author Bio:
Kate Bateman (writing as K. C. Bateman) wrote her first historical romance in response to a $1 bet with her husband who rashly claimed she’d ‘never finish the thing.’ She gleefully proved him wrong with a historical set in the Italian Renaissance. Now writing for Random House Loveswept, her latest ‘Covert Affairs’ trilogy features her trademark feisty, intelligent heroines, wickedly inappropriate banter, and heroes you want to alternately strangle and kiss-all mixed up in the intrigue and turmoil of the Napoleonic wars.


When not traveling to exotic locations ‘for research’, Kate leads a double life as a fine art appraiser and on-screen antiques expert for several TV shows in the UK, each of which has up to 2.5 million viewers. She splits her time between Illinois and her native England and writes despite three inexhaustible children and a husband who has flatly refused to read any of her books ‘unless she hits the NY Times Bestseller list.’ It is – naturally – her fervent desire to force the semi-illiterate, number-loving cynic to do so. He still owes her that dollar.

Kate loves to hear from readers and writers alike. Contact her on Twitter, Facebook, or via the contacts page.
See Her Socially: 


Pure Texuality PR Presents:The Lioness Of Egypt Book Blast And Giveaway!








The Lioness of Egyptby Leigh Anderson & Alice Wilde
SeriesThe Shifters of Africa Book One
GenreAdult
Reverse Harem
Paranormal Romance
PublisherRed Empress Publishing
Publication DateFebruary 7, 2019
Purchase Your Copy Today!
Amazon  |  The Shifters of Africa Trilogy on Amazon
Also Available On













A murdered pharaoh. An evil sorceress. And three lion shifter kings.
Sanura would do whatever it took to be the next queen of Egypt – even if it meant marrying her younger half-brother and waging war on all of Africa. But when the pharaoh is murdered and Sanura blamed for the crime, she barely escapes the city with her life.
With nothing and no one to help her, Sanura finds herself at the mercy of a lion shifter African king. One of Egypt’s sworn enemies. A man who would be better off with her dead.
And he’s not the only lion king she needs to worry about.
THE LIONESS OF EGYPT is the first full-length reverse harem historical fantasy book in the SHIFTERS OF AFRICA trilogy.


Tour Wide Giveaway

To celebrate the release of THE LIONESS OF EGYPT by Leigh Anderson & Alice Wilde, we’re giving away a $25 Amazon gift card to one lucky winner!

GIVEAWAY TERMS & CONDITIONS:  Open to internationally. One winner will receive a $25 Amazon gift card. This giveaway is administered by Pure Textuality PR on behalf of Red Empress Publishing.  Giveaway ends 2/11/2019 @ 11:59pm EST. Limit one entry per reader. Duplicates will be deleted. CLICK HERE TO ENTER!



About Leigh Anderson


LEIGH ANDERSON loves all things Gothic and paranormal. Her master’s thesis was on vampire imagery in Gothic novels and she met her husband while assuming the role of a vampire online. She currently teaches writing at several universities and has a rather impressive collection of tiny hats. She lives in a small town in the mountains with her husband, human child, and two fur-children. She is currently working on too many writing projects, and yet not enough.
Newsletter  |  Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  |  Amazon






About Alice Wilde


ALICE WILDE grew up with a love of reading and spent her teens writing and submitting her essays as fantasy stories, much to the annoyance, but often high marks, of her teachers. Now, she spends much of her days writing historical fantasy paranormal romances (filled with gorgeous men and, of course, magic) that she hopes will spark a flame in readers as much as they do in herself.
Alice is currently living with her cat in a bustling city she never sees much of, as she’s too busy dreaming up, writing down, and living in her next paranormal RH romance, though she generally finds enough time for a real life date or two… We all need a bit of inspiration now and again, right?







"The Fearless King" Will Vanquish All Monsters Of The Dark And Shine The Light On Love

39895064Title:  The Fearless King
Series: ( Kings #2)
Author:  Katee Robert
Length:  368 pages
Date Of Publication: Feb 5th, 2019
Publisher:  Forever
Rating:  5 Stars


Journey King is an expert at managing the family business. But when her father returns to Houston hell-bent on making a play for the company, Journey will do anything to stop him, even if that means going to Frank Evans for help. Frank deals in information, the dirtier the better. Rugged and rock solid, he’s by far her best ally—and also the most dangerous.

Frank knows better than to get tangled up with the Kings. But something about Journey’s rare vulnerability drags him deep into enemy territory . . . and into her darkest past. Pretending to be her boyfriend may be necessary for their plan to work, but Frank soon finds helping Journey is much more than just another job—and he’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.



Please Enjoy This Excerpt From:
The Last King
(Kings #1)

Put your stuff here
EXCERPT

Heaven was Samara in a little green dress.

Beckett watched her walk across the lobby, her mile-long legs eating up the distance with ease. That glimpse of wildness she’d given him last night was in full effect today, her hair a mass of black waves that seemed to curl and snap around her shoulders with each step. Her dress fitted her like a second skin, sloping down over her breasts, her stomach, to her hips and thighs.

But it was her dark eyes that drew and held him. Anger and desire and something like guilt lingered there, and she held his gaze as she stopped in front of him. “Do I meet your expectation?”

“You’re beautiful.”

She arched a single eyebrow. “I know.”

That surprised a laugh out of him. Beckett turned to the elevator bank and offered his elbow. The gentlemanly move was over-the-top for their current circumstances, but he couldn’t be this close to her without touching her. Kissing her now, here, was a terrible damn idea, so he’d settle for the small touch. “No false modesty. I like that.”

“I think we’ve established that I don’t operate based on what you like.” Despite her words, amusement pulled at the edges of her lips, and she set her hand carefully on his forearm. “Every time I think I have your number down, you surprise me. Most guys get pissy pants if a woman doesn’t fall at their feet when they call her beautiful.”

“I’m not most guys.” He waited for the elevator door to open and led her onto it. “You can’t fit me into a box and write me off, Samara.”

“I’m beginning to see that.” She shook her head, her hair brushing against his shoulder. “My life would be a whole lot easier if I could.”

He couldn’t argue that, so he didn’t bother. Beckett took them up to the executive level. He noted the way she studied everything, obviously filing away every bit of information she could lay her eyes on. “What does Lydia pay you these days?”

She dropped her arm and stepped back. “Oh no. I don’t think so.” She pointed at him. “We went over this last night. I’m not for sale.”

“It’s an innocent question.”

“It is most definitely not an innocent question.” She looked like she wanted to take off her shoe and throw it at his head. “I don’t care what issue you and your aunt have. I’m not part of it. You don’t get to use me as leverage. I’m not a pawn for either of you to sacrifice in this pissing match you have going on.”

Shame tried to take hold, but he wouldn’t let it. Samara knew the game, no matter how much it apparently offended her. “I’m the bad guy for trying to offer you a job, but I’m sure you agreed to show up here solely out of the goodness of your heart.” He pretended to think about it. “Wait, no you didn’t—which you already admitted. You’re here because Lydia wants to do whatever it takes to sink Morningstar. Full stop.” He motioned at the offices behind him. “Wake up, Samara. I’m only playing the game she made the rules for.”

She took in the empty COO office on the other side of the glass wall. “She poached your employees.”

“Convenient timing, don’t you think?”

“You’re not still harping on that paranoid talk about Lydia meeting Nathaniel.” Samara hesitated and then moved to stand in front of him. She pressed her lips together and then very gently said, “Do you think maybe it’s a good idea for you to talk to someone?”

Beckett jerked back. “What?”

There was nothing but sympathy in her dark eyes. “I’m serious, Beckett. I’ve known you a long time, at least by reputation, and this delusion you have going isn’t like you. Is it possible that Nathaniel’s death is hitting you harder than you realize? That you’re fixating on Lydia instead of your own grief because it’s easier to deal with an enemy than face the fact you can never make things right with your father?”

Every word flayed him, cutting to the quick. Beckett gritted his teeth against the need to tell Samara that she was the one who wasn’t thinking clearly. To yell. To expel some of the ugliness that had been brewing in him for a very, very long time. “I didn’t call you here to offer you a job, and I sure as hell don’t need a shrink.”

She stood her ground as he advanced. Her heels put them at the same height and she still managed to look down her nose at him. “Then why did you call me here?”

Because I can’t spend another moment alone without going out of my mind.

He didn’t say it. To admit how long it had been since he’d felt a connection with another person was to hand Samara—Lydia—a loaded gun and invite her to point it directly at him. He didn’t answer her verbally at all. Beckett cupped her waist and slowly pulled her against him, giving her plenty of time to register his intentions.

“Beckett.” Despair colored her tone and she gave a desperate laugh. “What are we doing?”

“I don’t know.” Using a hand on the small of her back, he pressed her firmly against him. “I don’t want to stop.”

Samara hesitated, but finally placed her hands gingerly against his chest. He waited, letting her decide. Yes or no. Push or pull. Stay or go. She hitched a breath. “I don’t want to stop, either.”

Find out more at www.kateerobert.com.


My Thoughts
"What a man...
What a man...
What a mighty good man."
Salt & Peppa

Journey King has been through a lot lately.  (See Kings #1)
As acting head of Kingdom Corp., in the absence of her mother.  Journey now finds herself on the frontline of a new fight.
Against an old foe.
Her father.

Elliott Bancroft has it all.  He is rich, poised, charming, and...
A monster!
And with his wife no longer acting as head of the company she founded.  He and those who aid him; are out for blood.
At any cost.
Just when you thought that the scheming, plotting, and backbiting of the King empire couldn't get any more devious.
Along comes book two in the series.
And this time it's more personal than ever.

Enter Frank Evans...
Frank is known among the King's as a man who can get things done.  As well as one of the few people that can be trusted to keep secrets.
As we found out in a big way via book one.
But what we didn't know was that Journey and Frank have an attraction.
So it brooks no question that when things go south for our leading lady.  Her knight of choice is one of the darker persuasion.
Pun intended...

Journey and Frank's story is a great deal more intense than that of Beckett and Samara.  This is due to the fact that the horrors of their respective pasts loom very large on the horizon of their futures.  And have the very real possibility of destroying everything and everyone that they hold dear.
For Journey...
Her father has always been a very real danger to both her and her siblings.  Abusing them all both physically and mentally for a large part of their childhoods.
For Frank...
The mere fact that he is a black man of power and means in the heart of the "good ole boy" network that is Texas.  Should be enough.
But no...
He is still reeling from both the wrongful conviction of his father for murder. And his subsequent murder in prison.
And the way in which said murder contributed to his mother's death from cancer.

Because the pain of their pasts rides so close to the surface.  The need to protect that they bring out in each other makes the back and forth fight for control that Beckett and Samara had to give voice to completely unnecessary.
It was just a given.  No matter the situation.

And speaking of situations...
There are so many.
That involve so many other people.
And do far more than sex ever could to draw these two together.

Not that the sex isn't AWESOME!
It is...
The sex in Journey and Frank's story is also a great deal more raw.  Mirroring their psyches and general states of being.
And the fact that it comes with just the right amount of ph-so-alpha S&M.
Ohhhhhh yeah!

In short.
This story is about the coming together of two knights working together to slay some very REAL dragons.  Both in business and in life.






About Katee
Katee RobertNew York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell her stories at her grandpa’s knee. Her 2015 title, The Marriage Contract, was a RITA finalist, and RT Book Reviews named it 'a compulsively readable book with just the right amount of suspense and tension." When not writing sexy contemporary and romantic suspense, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her children, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.
See Her Socially:  Web Goodreads Twitter Instagram 


Buy The Book Here

Avon Books Presents: Playing For Keeps & Giveaway!

40034882
Title:  Playing For Keeps
Series:  Heartbreaker Bay
Author:  Jill Shalvis
Length:  384 pages
Publication Date:  January 22, 2019
Publisher:  Avon
Rating:  5 Stars


If you’re planning on falling in love…
When it comes to the confident, charismatic Caleb Parker, Sadie Lane feels the spark—the kind that comes from rubbing each other the wrong way. She’s yoga pants, he’s a suit. She’s a tattoo artist, he’s a straight-laced mogul. But after they accidentally co-rescue an abandoned dog from a storm, Sadie sees a vulnerable side to the seemingly invincible hottie.
you’d better be sure…
Caleb doesn’t do emotions. Growing up the underdog, he’s learned the hard way to build up an impenetrable wall. Perfect for business. Disastrous for relationships. He’s never worried about it before—not until he finally gets behind Sadie’s armor and begins to fall.
… someone is there to catch you.
Both guarded and vulnerable, Sadie and Caleb are complete opposites. Or are they? Shocked at their undeniable connection, can they ever admit to wanting more? That all depends on what they’re each willing to risk. 









Please Enjoy This Excerpt From
Playing For Keeps

“Sadie.”
She shook her head.
“Look at me. Please?”
It was the damn please that had her opening her eyes. He’d closed the gap so that if she so much as took a breath, they’d be touching.
So she did just that. She took a deep breath, and then their bodies were up against each other, his warm and hard. Everywhere. “What’s happening?” she whispered.
“I believe you’re deciding between kicking me in the nuts and kissing me.” One side of his mouth curved very slightly as he lifted their still joined hands above her head, against the wall.
“But that last part might just be in my dreams.”
“Yes,” she whispered.
“Yes, it’s just in my dreams?”
She meant to say yes again, she really did.
She even opened her mouth to say it, because this was insane, this incredible . . . craving she had for him. It made no sense. Less than no sense, and yet . . .

She went up on tiptoe and touched her mouth to his.


My Thoughts
Here's to the lastest return to Heartbreaker's Bay.  And a romance that one can truly say has "gone to the dogs.
Or in this case...
An adorable three legged stray named Lollipop.
Who proves to be the saving grace for the two wayward hearts that she manages to steal at first sight.
Said hearts, as well as the people in which they beat...
Well...
That is the stuff of a much longer story.
Hence the book!
Lol.
But let's get on with the review...
Shall we?

Caleb Parker and Sadie Lane seem to be about as opposite as opposite can get.
She is all about her art.  Whether she's making people look and feel their best in her work at the local day spa.  Or inking skin and covering scars as a tattooist.
He on the other hand, is all about business.  The self made techie who made good.  With GQ looks and never a hair out of place.
The Sadie given moniker "Suites" never fit anyone better.
And though the two have seen each other everyday for more than two years.
It isn't until they come together in aid to Lollipop, that they really give each other a second look.

Playing For Keeps is truly the perfect "white knight" romance.  Particularly if you like you knights with three legs, a tendency to drool, and covered in fur.
Lollipop serves as the perfect bridge between Caleb and Sadie.
Bringing them and their worlds together in such unexpected and utterly heart-stealing ways.

Written in her homey and fluid style.  This 7th installment in the aforementioned Heartbreaker Bay series.  Is indeed a one sitting wonder.  The banter and character development are spot on.  And the  touches of situational comedy are stellar.
This is a book that will steal the heart of any reader paws down.
Proving that sometimes even the most perfect love doesn't always come in the most perfect package.




All About Jill
New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website, www.jillshalvis.com, for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.










See Her Socially
Facebook: @JillShalvis
Twitter: @JillShalvis


40034882
Buy The Book:

Barnes & Noble: https://bit.ly/2HsDoYa  
Books-A-Million: https://bit.ly/2TTTk6S


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