InkSlinger PR

Helping authors get the word out.

SOUR by Jennifer Woodhull – Release Day Blitz

Today we have the release day blitz of SOUR  by Jennifer Woodhull! Check it out and grab your copy now!

 

Title: SOUR

Author: Jennifer Woodhull

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Release Date: June 4th   

 

About SOUR:

Tall, handsome, and eternally optimistic Noah has dated a string of gorgeous women. His best friend Elle has outlasted them all. Of course, he has no idea she’s been in love with him for years. Why would he? It’s not like she’s going to tell him. After all, she’s short and awkward, and as he’s fond of reminding her, has a sour disposition.

 

When Elle takes off on her annual ten-day vacation with her family, Noah comes to a startling realization. She’s the woman who is by his side day in and day out, whose office is across the hall, and whose house is around the corner. She has called him on his shit when he gets too cocky, and he has held her in her arms when her heart was broken. Absence must make the heart grow fonder because while she’s in Germany with her parents, he realizes that everything he has ever wanted was right there all along. Now he’s on a mission to make her realize that romance won’t ruin their friendship, but platonic friendship is ruining their relationship.

 

Grab your Copy Today:

Amazon | iBooks | Google Play | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

I’m beyond excited that this trip will be just me and Noah, instead of a lot of boring people there that we have to pay attention to instead of just hanging out with each other like we prefer.

I try to focus on the workflow I’m supposed to turn in this week for the marketing strategy for the last quarter of the year, but I’m having trouble focusing.

My instant messenger lights up.

Noah: we need things. let’s go shopping tonight.

Me: what sort of things

Noah: you need a new dress for the formal vendor night, and I need…things

Me: what sort of things?

Noah: it’s personal

 

I grab my phone and text him.

ME: WHAT SORT OF THINGS

NOAH: don’t yell its rude

ME: THEN TELL ME

NOAH: it’s PERSONAL

ME: tell me or I’ll throw away all the gummies u left at my place.

NOAH: u wouldn’t dare

ME: wouldn’t I though?

NOAH: underwear

ME: I’m sorry?

NOAH: underwear. I washed my underwear with a red polo and they’re all pink. every pair.

ME: <tears of joy emoji>

 

I laugh out loud so hard I snort, and he looks up from his desk, craning his neck to look through my window at me. I stand and walk across the hall to his office, and flop down in the chair across from his desk.

“So, tiger, how pink are we talkin’, here?” I put a finger up to catch the tears under my eyes from laughing so hard, and hope I don’t have an unintentional smoky-eye look from my mascara.

“Pink. Like…pink.” He replies, shaking his head.

“That’s not like you, Noah. You’re the perfect housekeeper. You’re great at laundry. You did such a great job cleaning up my place that I can’t find anything.” I roll my eyes.

When I mention the cleaning job he did in my apartment, his cheeks turn pink. I can’t say I’ve ever seen that happen before. It’s weird. It’s intriguing.

“Oh, well…,” he rubs a broad palm up and down the back of his neck. “I’ve been kinda distracted lately. It was just a stupid mistake.”

“Well, we definitely don’t want you walking around Vegas in pink shorts. What if our rooms are on the same floor? If you pick up some girl, and bring her back, her laughter will probably wake me up.” I fan myself until my laughter subsides.

“I’m not picking up any girls in Vegas,” he says, putting his hands behind his head as he leans back in his chair.

“Oh? I thought you said you were cooling things off with…what was the last one’s name? Is that back on?” I ask, hoping my curiosity sounds light and friendly, though it is definitely neither.

“No, that’s been over for a while. I’m not picking up women in Vegas, though. I’m thinking of trying something different…,” he looks down, then casts his eyes up at me, the pale blue orbs turning dark as they peek up from under thick, dark brows.

“What?! Don’t tell me you’re batting for the other team now. I mean, I’ve had a few gay guys ask me about you, but I always thought for sure you preferred an innie to an outie,” I laugh.

“Um, no. Definitely one-hundred-percent straight, thanks,” then he looks at me and we say in unison, “Not that there’s anything wrong with that.” Seinfeld. Our mutual love of 90s sitcoms is boundless. It is one of a thousand things that make him perfect.

“So, what then?” I ask, dipping my brows.

“I’m taking a little break from the usual, that’s all. I’m thinking maybe I want to try…I dunno. Something…more.” He shrugs and holds my gaze intensely.

“So…,” I swallow hard, the words catching in my throat. Please, dear God, tell me this isn’t the conversation I’ve dreaded for the past five years. Please, please, don’t let him have found someone he’s serious about.

 

 

 

About the Author:

We all need moments of escape. With all the demands on us day in and day out, we each need something just for ourselves. Perhaps nothing provides a private moment – a brief respite from every day – like escaping into a great story. When you pick up one of my books I hope you find that place that you can escape to. Explore the streets of Paris with new heroines or fly around the world to reclaim your lost love with a favorite hero. Whether it’s the romance that takes your breath away or those climactic encounters that make your pulse race, I hope you find that solitary moment of enjoyment while lost in one of my stories.

Connect with Jennifer:

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

 

Enter Jennifer’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

 

Available Now: BROKEN BEATS by D. Kelly

We are thrilled to be bringing you the release of BROKEN BEATS by D. Kelly. Lovers of single dad romance won’t want to miss this one – be sure to grab your copy today!

 

About BROKEN BEATS

Darren
Single father
Widower
Retired
Three things I never thought I’d be by thirty, yet all my daily reality.
This is not the life I would have chosen, but it’s the hand I’ve been dealt.
I love my daughter.
I loved Belle.
I’m not interested in more heartache.
Relationships are a thing of the past.
Until I meet her –
She’s the awakening I desperately need, but one I’m not sure I deserve.

Haddie
Everything happens for a reason.
Time heals all wounds.
You’re too young to give up on love.
They say that, but they’re wrong.
My world crumbled forever when my fiancé died.
Then I met him –
He’s flawed in the same ways.
Broken in the same places.
Scared of the same things.
He looks at me like I’m his salvation.
And I want to be, but an open heart means risking a broken one.

Add BROKEN BEATS to your Goodreads TBR today!

 

Get BROKEN BEATS today!
Amazon | Apple | Nook | Kobo

 

 

About D. KELLY

Kelly, author of The Acceptance Series, The Illusion Series, and standalone companion novels Chasing Cassidy and Sharing Rylee, was born and raised in Southern California. She’s a wife, mom, dog lover, taxi, problem fixer, and extreme multi-tasker. She married her high school sweetheart and is her kids’ biggest fan.

Kelly has been writing since she was young and took joy in spinning stories to her childhood friends. Margaritas and sarcasm make her smile, she loves the beach but hates the sand, and she believes Starbucks makes any day better.

A contemporary romance writer, D. Kelly’s stories revolve around friendship and the bond it creates, strengthening the love of the people who share it.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Newsletter | BookBub

WORTH FIGHTING FOR by Amanda Kelley – Release Day Blitz

Today we have the release blitz for Amanda Kelley’s Worth Fighting For! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy today!

 

Title: WORTH FIGHTING FOR

Author: Amanda Kelley

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

About Worth Fighting For:

Nothing in Kellen O’Connell’s life has come easy. He knows better than anyone that if you want something, you better fight for it.

 

When he finds himself drawn to a feisty kindergarten teacher, he realizes he’s going to have to fight harder than ever if he wants to know her secrets.

 

On the outside, Ali Crawford has it all. The perfect job. Great friends. A wonderful family. But she has demons, just like everyone else. There are things she’s never given a voice to, and they are relentlessly chipping away at her conscience.

 

Will she have the courage to trust the magnetic, if not annoyingly infuriating, Kellen with her past? Or will she let it ruin the best thing she’s ever known, as it turns her into someone she doesn’t even recognize?

 

If they can learn to trust each other, they might just find something worth fighting for.

 

*Intended for readers 18 years of age and up due to mature content.

Get Your Copy Now!

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

While the kids were held captive by one of the men donning a heavy tan fire suit, Ali felt someone come stand beside her. She glanced to her right and found Kellen. He seemed much bigger, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with her, than he had the other day. Ali wouldn’t consider herself short, and he still had at least six inches on her.

“You doin’ okay?” he whispered, keeping his eyes trained forward.

“Aces. Why do you ask?”

“Oh, I don’t know. Could have something to do with the pale skin and choppy breathing. Or maybe it’s the way you’re swaying on your feet.”

Crap.

She hadn’t thought it was so noticeable.

She caught the eye of one of her students who’d turned to talk to the boy next to him and motioned for him to be quiet and pay attention before she whispered back, barely moving her lips, “Occupational hazard. I’m fine.”

“Of course you are, but why don’t you have a seat before you fall over?”

Ali gritted her teeth. More than a little annoyed that he’d noticed. Annoyed that she felt like crap. Annoyed that he’d ordered her around. And annoyed that the pills were barely keeping her on her feet. “I said, I’m fine.”

“Whatever you say, Ali Cat.”

“Excuse me? Did you just call me an alley cat?”

When he didn’t respond, she glanced up at him and found him completely relaxed, calmly watching the firemen who began taking questions from the kids.

That only annoyed her further.

“You know, in polite society, people don’t go around pointing out how crappy someone else looks.”

“And, if you’d retract your claws a little, you’d realize I never said you looked crappy. I was simply asking if you were feeling okay.”

Double crap.

Ali closed her eyes.

He was right, and she was being a bitch again.

She had ninety more minutes before she could head home and quarantine herself—and her bitchiness—in a hot bath where she couldn’t infect anyone else.

But there was something she needed to do first.

“I’m sorry.”

“Accepted,” Kellen easily returned.

“No, not just for today,” she continued. “For last week in front of the diner. I was snippy that day, too, and you didn’t deserve it then any more than you deserve it now.”

“Has everyone been graced with your sunny demeanor lately, or am I just that lucky?”

She huffed out a surprised laugh. “You’ve been luckier than most.”

“Any particular reason?”

None that she was going to share. “Luck of the draw, I guess.”

“Fair enough.”

“And I appreciate your concern. Thank you for checking on me.”

See, I can be nice.

 

 

About the Author:

Amanda was raised in a small town in Wyoming where she met and married her high school sweetheart. Today, they live in Northern Colorado where she is lucky enough to be a stay-at-home mom to two incredible sons. When she is not attempting to write awesome love stories, she spends her days as a chauffeur, alarm clock, maid, nurse, chef, counselor, cheerleader, referee, finder of shoes and homework, giver of hugs, and pet whisperer. And she wouldn’t have it any other way.

 

Connect with Amanda:

Facebook | Instagram | Amazon | Goodreads

Enter Amanda’s Giveaway

 

I DREAM OF SPIDERS by Elle Keating – Release Day Blit z

Today we have the release blitz for Elle Keating’s I DREAM OF  SPIDERS! Check it out and be sure to order your copy today!

Title: I Dream of Spiders

Author: Elle Keating

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

About I Dream of Spiders:

The move to the remote town of Quarry Hill, Pennsylvania was supposed to help Griffin McGuire start over and forget the two people who betrayed him. As a paramedic at the local hospital, he would still have to interact with people, but the rest of the time he could hole himself away in the secluded cabin he was renting. It was perfect. For the first time in over a year, he felt like he could finally breathe.

That was until he met her.

A woman who doesn’t know her own name or why she was covered in blood and standing in the middle of the road when he found her. Griffin knows he should contact the police, but something is preventing him from going to the authorities. It doesn’t take long for him to realize that he was correct in trusting his instincts. Every time she falls asleep, she dreams and another memory is unlocked. Memories that are horrific and make him want to protect and hide her from the world.

 

Get Your Copy Today:

Amazon  | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon FR | Amazon AU

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

I can’t keep doing this to him. He has a life and most likely a girlfriend. Tomorrow I will leave. I will ask to borrow some money and get far away from him. He has done enough. I will make it on my own. I get out of bed and creep down the hall to tell him my plan. I expect to find him in the kitchen, maybe needing a late-night snack, not the bathroom. Because why wouldn’t he have just used the master bath? The sound of heavy breathing snaps up my attention and I look toward the hall bathroom. The light isn’t on but I hear a barely audible groan on the other side of the cracked door. I push it open and watch the man I have fantasized about for the past few days working his cock with one hand while he steadies himself by holding onto the sink. I can’t stop staring. He is so big, so aroused…and so am I. I want him. I want to be the one making him groan and pant. Without warning, he turns and our eyes lock.

“Leave, Clare.” I can’t move. “Go back to bed,” he commands, his tone desperate. His hand stills and he releases his cock. “Please,” he utters, his voice gruff, as if he is in pain.

My feet unlock from the imaginary vise they have been in and I step toward him. We don’t break eye contact, even when I grip his cock and stroke him from root to tip. I’m not sure if I have ever done this before or if I am even doing it correctly, but the way his breathing hitches and his eyes flutter tell me that I am doing something right. I pump him harder, swirling the wet tip with the pad of my thumb. His hips sway and his pants become more erratic. I am seconds away from dropping to my knees when he suddenly grabs my wrist.

“We can’t,” he says, his eyes boring into mine.

“Why? Is it because of Corinne?” I ask. He blinks several times and shakes his head. “Your girlfriend?”

“I don’t have a girlfriend.”

“But I thought…”

“Corinne’s my sister.”

He doesn’t have a girlfriend. Which means…

He pries my fingers from his cock and tucks himself back into his pants. He moves past me and steps out of the bathroom. Like a fool, I follow him. “Oh. I get it now. You just don’t want me,” I say.

He stops and faces me. “Is that what you think? That I don’t want you?”

“You stopped me…you said we can’t…”

“We can’t because you belong to someone else. You remembered him today, caught a glimpse of the man you admitted loving, and I’ll be damned if he is who you are thinking of as I sink into you. I won’t share you. I’m not built that way.”

I feel like complete shit. Griffin is doing the noble thing, protecting my virtue and his heart. I am such a bitch.

Dylan is important to me. I care for him. Love him. But in what way? If it is a romantic type of love, then why didn’t I feel guilty when I touched Griffin? Or when I think about him taking me, claiming me? Griffin turns and walks to the living room. I pathetically escape to the bedroom. I am no longer afraid of the nightmares that could plague me if I even manage to fall asleep tonight. No, what I fear are the dreams I may have of the man who has just protected me from myself.

 

About the Author:

Elle Keating is the author of romance novels with sexy heroes and fierce females. Her first book, Thrill of the Chase (Dangerous Love, #1), was published by Forever Romance’s digital imprint, Forever Yours, in 2015. Cut to the Chase (Dangerous Love, #2) soon followed. Most recently, Elle self-published Wanting More (Dangerous Love, #3), Back to the Start (Dangerous Love, #4) Feels Like Falling (Dangerous Love, #5) and the standalone novel, Keeping His Commandments.
When Elle isn’t torturing her heroes and heroines (don’t worry, there’s always a happily ever after), she is a public school administrator and enjoys spending time with her husband and 3 children in New Jersey. For more on Elle and her books, visit ellekeating.com.

Connect with Elle:

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Instagram

Enter Elle’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

THE STAND-IN BOYFRIEND by Emma Doherty – Release Blitz

Today we have the release blitz of THE STAND-IN BOYFRIEND by Emma Doherty! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy today!

 

Title: The Stand-In Boyfriend

Author: Emma Doherty

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

 

About The Stand-In Boyfriend:

Livy Chapman is in love with Jessie Stephenson. It’s that simple. She has been for years but he only see’s her as his best friend. His best friend who copies her homework, relies on her to bail him out of trouble and who he hooks up with other girls in front of.

 

Enough is enough and when Chase Mitchell, star of the soccer team, and all round Mr. Popular steps in and convinces her that they can do each other a favour by pretending to date, Livy is just crazy enough over Jessie to agree to it.

 

I mean, Chase is just her stand-in boyfriend. Nothing could go wrong. Right?

 

Get Your Copy Today!

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

I pull into the school parking lot on Monday morning and still feel like utter crap. Jessie texted me a couple of times yesterday to see if I wanted to hang out, but I just couldn’t do it. I replied telling him I was feeling like trash (not a lie) and that I’d see him today. Sophie kept me company all day. She was upbeat, loud, and entertaining the whole time, but I still couldn’t crack a smile. After Chase disappeared on Saturday night, Sophie was by my side within minutes; he clearly went and told her. I tried to keep it together and act like it was no big deal, but she took one look at me and I fell apart all over again. I think maybe, deep down, I did think this would be it with Jessie—thought actually, finally something was about to happen, and seeing Courtney wrapped around him and then them disappearing into that empty bedroom together…well, every time I think about it, I feel like my heart is breaking all over again.

I pull down the visor and stare at my reflection. I look as bad as I feel. I reach into my bag and grab a hair tie, pulling my hair back off my face into a high ponytail. Some of the back falls down and I don’t bother to fix it—caring about my appearance certainly didn’t do any good on Saturday night. I dig around in my bag for any makeup that might make me look more human, perhaps cover my swollen eyes and give me some color in my cheeks, but the only thing I can find is some concealer. I rub a bit into the skin below my eyes, but it does little to make me look more presentable. I sigh and climb out of my car, pulling out my bag then locking it behind me. I turn to head inside but then stop dead.

Chase Mitchell is leaning against his car, right opposite mine, with his legs and arms crossed in front of him, gaze pinned on me.
I look behind me uneasily, hoping one of his friends is around and that’s who he’s waiting on, but there’s no one in my general vicinity.

“Uh, hey.”

He stands up straight and walks forward until he’s stopped right in front of me. “Hey. How you feeling?”

Mortification runs through me. I can’t believe the state he saw me in on Saturday. It’s so embarrassing. It’s bad enough Sophie did, but at least she knows me. Chase doesn’t know me at all and witnessed my complete meltdown. He must think I’m crazy.

“I’m good.” I force myself to answer brightly. “Really good.”

He rolls his eyes. Clearly he’s not ready to let me act like Saturday night never happened.

I sigh. His eyes, which for the first time I notice are a bright green, look concerned, and despite me desperately trying to look like I’m fine and not a total wreck today, I find that I can’t focus on his face. My eyes keep darting around behind him. “I’m, uh…” My voice trails off; I have no idea what to say to him that will make this any less awkward.

“It’s okay to be upset if the guy you like is with someone else,” Chase tells me.

Oh Jesus.

“I don’t, I mean…” I stop. What’s the point in denying it? He clearly knows. “How did you know?”

He shrugs. “I’m pretty observant, and, well…” He doesn’t continue. I guess my meltdown on Saturday night was pretty self-explanatory.

I sigh. “Yeah, um…I’m pretty embarrassed about how I acted at the party.”

He nods. “I haven’t told anyone. I won’t tell anyone.”

My eyes find his. My initial thought on Saturday was that the whole school would know by now, but actually when I was thinking about it yesterday, I realized Chase actually seems like a decent guy, and it would be pretty shitty to broadcast something like that just for gossip’s sake.

“Thanks. I appreciate that.”

He shrugs. “No worries.”

I stand there awkwardly for a couple of seconds, wondering what to say next before realizing the conversation is over. This is Chase Mitchell—we don’t have anything to say to each other.

“Okay, so…bye,” I mumble before turning in the direction of the school building.

“Wait.” He reaches out his hand and grips my arm, halting me in place.

I turn back to him in surprise.

“I had this idea.”

I raise an eyebrow at him expectantly as a grin spreads across his face. “Yeah?” I ask after a couple of seconds of him not saying anything.

“You have to promise to hear me out.”

“Huh?”

“Say you won’t just dismiss the idea and will actually think about it.”

“Um…” This is getting weird. “Okay?”

He grins wider. “We should totally pretend to date.”

 

About Emma Doherty:

Emma Doherty was born in Yorkshire, England. She attended university in Newcastle before moving to London. She loves to travel, write, spend time with friends and family and hear from her readers.

 

Connect with Emma:

Instagram | Facebook

Enter Emma’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

DEAD AND GONE by Jennifer Rebecca – Release Blitz

Today we have the release day blitz for Dead and Gone by Jennifer Rebecca! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy today:

 

Title: Dead and Gone 

Author: Jennifer Rebecca

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Cover by Alyssa Garcia at Uplifting Designs.

 

About Dead and Gone:

You ever have an out of body experience? Like one of those moments where you’re standing on a street corner watching yourself do something monumentally stupid? Something you know you shouldn’t do but you just can’t help yourself?

 

Three weeks ago, Trent and I were deep into the Honeymoon stage of love, I swore I wouldn’t be the first one to rock the boat—Lord knows with our two Irish tempers it would happen soon enough—so when he made me promise to keep my nose and our grandmothers out of his investigation, I did.

 

It didn’t hurt that his head was buried between my legs at the time either. But then Daisy called me begging for help and what kind of bestie would I be if I shut the door in her face? That’s right, a sh*tty one. So I packed up our grandmothers and their gogo boots, g-strings and pasties to get to the bottom of things. Only problem is if Trent catches us I’ll be dead meat, folks.

 

My name is Shelby Whitmore, Funeral and Obituaries columnist for the San Diego Metro News and most likely to be single again if I survive this sh*t. But hey, at least I’m still a hit with the blue hairs . . .

 

Get your copy today!

Amazon | Ibooks | Nook | Kobo

Add to your GOODREADS

Exclusive Excerpt:

I’m dead meat. Literally. Dead. Meat.

Last month, when Trent and I started up for real after all of our false starts at the beginning of our relationship I promised him I wouldn’t do anything crazy. I wouldn’t go off half-cocked. And most importantly, I wouldn’t follow our grandmothers down the crazy-assed rabbit hole of Granny Grabbers and Dangerous Dames.

“You’re not police officers,” he had said.

And I agreed. We’re not.

Trent also might have coerced me into agreeing with him in the most despicable ways. One minute my legs were wrapped around his neck, my eyes were rolled back in my head, and I was one more “Oh, yes!” away from the promised land.

             “Shell,” he said to me in between licks and kisses. “Promise me you won’t do anything crazy.” He kissed me again and again.

             “Yes.” I ignored him as I rocked against his mouth, moving closer and closer.

             “Promise,” he commanded as I spiraled the edge.

             “Yes!” I cried.

             “You promise?” he asked me again, but I was too far gone.

             “Sweet petunia, yes!”

             “I’m so glad we agree. You have no idea how happy this makes me, Shelby.” Trent smiled as he slithered up my body like the snake that he was.

             Although, I had an idea how happy my climax had made him, as it was currently poking me in the thigh. Before I had a chance to catch my breath or even question what, exactly, Trent and I agreed on, he slid all the way inside me, to the hilt, and my eyes rolled back in my head.

 

Catch up on the series:

Dead and Buried

 

About the Author:

Jennifer is a thirty something lover of words, all words: the written, the spoken, the sung (even poorly), the sweet, the funny, and even the four letter variety. She is a native of San Diego, California where she grew up reading the Brownings and Rebecca with her mother and Clifford and the Dog who Glowed in the Dark with her dad, much to her mother’s dismay.

Jennifer is a graduate of California State University San Marcos where she studied Criminology and Justice Studies. She is also an Alpha Xi Delta.

10 years ago, she was swept off her feet by her very own sailor. Today, they are happily married and the parents of a 8 year old and 6 year old twins. She can often be found in East Texas on the soccer fields, drawing with her children, or reading. Jennifer is convinced that if she puts her fitbit on one of the dogs, she might finally make her step goals. She loves a great romance, an alpha hero, and lots and lots of laughter.

 

www.JenniferRebeccaAuthor.com

JenniferRebeccaAuthor@gmail.com

facebook.com/JenniferRebeccaAuthor

Twitter: @JenniRLreads

Instagram: @JenniRLreads

 

 

BLOW ME AWAY by Christina Hovland – Release Day Blitz

Today Christina Hovland is here to share her release blitz, BLOW ME AWAY!  Check it out and be sure to get your copy today!

 

Title: Blow Me Away

Author: Christina Hovland

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

About Blow Me Away:

It’s all fun and games until somebody falls in love…

Jase Dvornakov has always loved women, 80’s hair band music, and things that go boom. He used to disarm bombs in the Navy, but he’s back in Denver after a mission overseas went sideways and destroyed his future, including his marriage. Now he arranges flowers in his family’s floral business because flowers don’t explode.

Cookie-baker extraordinaire, Heather Reese, has had one too many rounds of heartache, so she’s sworn off men and prefers to spend her evenings binge-watching game shows. Plus her no-men rule gives her time to focus on her dream come true—Heather’s Cookie Co.—her very own bake shop with an underground following for naughty shaped treats. She refuses to be interested in the hot-shot florist across the street. He is trouble with a capital T. Sexy trouble, but still, a hook-up with Jase is a hard nope.

Desperate to avoid his family’s incessant matchmaking, a fake breakup with the beautiful Heather is just what the florist ordered. If his family believes Heather decimated his heart, they’ll leave him alone. Heather isn’t so keen on the idea, but Jase is determined to make it worth her while. When a pretend breakup becomes the real romance neither was expecting, together they’ll have to decide if it’s finally time to light the fuse on love…

Get Your Copy Today:

AMAZON | AMAZON CA | AMAZON UK
AMAZON DE | AMAZON FR

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

“Heather?” Jase stuck tape on the corners of the top poster.

“Hmm?” Her eyes met his again, because she refused to show weakness.

“You catching that?” he asked, his focus returning to the poster and the tape.

“Catching what?”

Poster in hand, he moved to the front window and pressed it against the glass, smoothing it before turning back to her. “Catching the little buzz we have going on between us.”

“A little… The thing is…” C’mon, Heather, be strong. You are the cookie lady now. You don’t date. You are all you need. That’s what the podcast she’d been listening to said to her over and over again. Mantra in hand, she slapped on her I’m-in-charge-here-buddy mask. “It would never work between us.”

The edges of his lips ticked up ever so slightly. “You can’t know that.”

Oh, she knew.

He sauntered toward her.

Unwilling to back down, she stepped toward him. Expression firm, she said, “I can already see exactly how this whole thing would play out if we let it. You’d start with a horrible pickup line.”

“Guilty.” His hands fell to the belt loops of his jeans.

Her palm itched to press against the front of his tee, but she refrained. “Then I’d counter with a witty response. This time, my reply would be even better. Funny, intelligent…everything.”

“Now, that I’d like to hear.” Nothing but a foot of crackling air sizzled between them.

“Trust me, if I had said it, it would have been epic. You can’t repeat something like that. It has to happen in the moment.” She shook her head, the sleek ponytail she’d carefully arranged earlier brushing against the collar of her jacket.

“That right there is why we wouldn’t have worked out. I mean, you couldn’t even come up with a snappier reply.” He crossed his arms, the little veins of his muscled forearms flexing with the motion.

“Oh, I would’ve. It would’ve been the best response in the history of pickup line replies.”

“I don’t believe you.” The glimmer in his eyes lit up his entire face.

He was enjoying this exchange entirely too much.

Control. She needed the power back. “Trust would’ve always been one of your issues in our relationship.”

“Maybe you just couldn’t be honest with me about how you felt. That’s probably why we would have always argued.” He raised his eyebrows in a clear ultimatum.

Challenge accepted.

She stepped the tiniest bit closer to him. “Let’s say you threw out that awful line again. The one about taking me out.”

“I’m with you so far.” He glanced down to the floor in clear acknowledgment of her movement forward, but he held his ground.

“We’d banter for a good bit—”

His face sparked with humor. “Sounds about right.”

“Both of us would get that tingly feeling of attraction. You know the one.” So maybe she made her voice a little breathier than usual. Sue her.

His mouth parted, the exaggerated fullness of his lower lip apparent. “You have a tingly feeling?”

She shook her head and raised a hand. Not touching his chest like she desperately wanted to, but getting within millimeters. “That’s not the important part. Eventually, you would convince me to go on a date.”

“I’d take you to this great taco stand. I love tacos.”

“Despite that, I’d probably let you take me out again. And again,” she said, not willing to acknowledge the way she wanted to nip at his lip with her teeth.

He nodded. “I’m digging this relationship so far.”

“Eventually, you’d ask me to move in. I’d say no. You’d pressure me, even though I wouldn’t be ready.”

“What can I say? I wouldn’t want to spend a night away from you. No use paying for two apartments.”

She shrugged, dropping her hand. “I’d cave, and we’d finally move in together—”

“Do we get to hook up first? Don’t skip that part.” This time he moved forward, just a smidge.

She stayed put. She refused to back up first. “Of course. It would be awful. Sorry Speed Racer, but I need more than three minutes of go time.”

“That’s not what you’d say after you screamed my name.” He leaned forward, the whisper of his words brushing against her ear.

God, there wasn’t but a breath of space between them. She was all turned-on Heather, ready to throw her why-have-a-man-when-you-can-have-cookies resolve away.

His breath smelled of cinnamon candy and coffee, turning her knees effectively to melted butter.

No, she stopped herself. Back to the fictional breakup at hand.

Cookies were just fine for her. Better, even.

“Then we would be horribly irresponsible one night and, surprise, it’s a boy!” She waved her hands and grinned.

He frowned. “I’d never be that irresponsible.”

“It would happen. And then you’d insist we get married in a huge production I’d totally resent.” Now, she stepped to the counter to grab the rest of the posters.

“C’mon, baby. I’d tell you we could keep it small.”

She held the posters against her front like weak card-stock armor. “It wouldn’t matter, you’d be all kinds of grumpy when you stopped getting your full three minutes on top. Before you could say ‘honeymoon,’ we’d hate each other. The divorce would be sweet relief for everyone involved, and we’d never speak again.” She flashed him a goodbye smile. “Aren’t you glad we aren’t doing that?”

 

About Christina:

Christina Hovland lives her own version of a fairy tale—an artisan chocolatier by day and romance writer by night. Born in Colorado, Christina received a degree in journalism from Colorado State University. Before opening her chocolate company, Christina’s career spanned from the television newsroom to managing an award-winning public relations firm. She’s a recovering overachiever and perfectionist with a love of cupcakes and dinner she doesn’t have to cook herself. A 2017 Golden Heart® finalist, she lives in Colorado with her first-boyfriend-turned-husband, four children, and the sweetest dog around.

 

Connect with Christina:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

Enter Christina’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

A.K. Evans’ SOLITUDE – Release Blitz

Today we have the release blitz for A.K. Evans upcoming romance, Solitude. Check it out and be sure to pick up your copy today!

Title: Solitude

Author: A.K. Evans

Genre: Contemporary Romance

About Solitude:

Lorenzo De Luca’s troubled past has left him a shell of a man. The blood that runs through his veins feels toxic. Determined to not let history repeat itself, Lorenzo vows to protect others from the violence that lives inside him.

 

But when Jolie Moore literally stumbles into his arms and his life, Lorenzo finds himself captivated by her larger-than-life personality. Jolie’s pull is strong, making it difficult for him to keep his promise. It’s hard to resist the urge to connect with the girl who wears her heart on her sleeve, but Lorenzo knows he needs to lock his heart away to keep her safe.

 

Because his legacy has the power to destroy.

 

Jolie’s never been one to back down from a challenge, and her resolve to help him heal is strong. Lorenzo is wary, already content having found peace in solitude. But it isn’t long before Jolie shows him that he’s shielded others from a man who only has the capacity to love.

 

Get Your Copy Today!

Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks

 

Exclusive Excerpt:

“Thanks again for making sure I didn’t completely embarrass myself earlier,” I broke the silence between us.

“You’re welcome.  Are you always so clumsy?”

My eyes widened.  “What?”

“That’s the second time I’ve saved you from getting your face busted open,” he clarified.  “I’m just wondering if that’s a normal thing for you.”

I shook my head.  “No, it seems to only happen around you.”

He offered one slow nod but said nothing in response.  His eyes left mine and he scanned the room.

“Lorenzo?” I called.

He dropped his stare to me and answered, “Yeah?”

“What’s happening?”

He pulled his brows together.  “Come again?”

“It’s just…” I stammered.  “I feel like there’s something more going on here between us.”

“Fuck,” he muttered quietly, looking away from me.  He took several moments to live inside his own head.  When he looked at me again, his eyes were haunted.  “Do you want this one day?” he asked.

“I’m sorry?”

“A wedding?  Marriage?  Commitment?”

I felt my body get tight.  “Sure, yeah, I mean, one day I want to get married.  But not now.”

“Right.  Then you need to understand now that I’m not that man and I never will be,” he stated firmly.

“Okay,” I replied, stretching out the word hoping to indicate my confusion at his statement.

He didn’t offer an explanation, but I was still curious.  Was he saying that he was okay with a one-night fling, but nothing long-term?

“So, if I had said that I was just looking for a hookup, would you have had a different response?” I wondered.

His eyes flared.  “Is that your thing?  Having a random hookup?”

I shook my head slowly.  “No, but that doesn’t answer my question.”

He shrugged his shoulders.  “If you were anyone else, sure.  But you’re not just anyone else.  And that means nothing will ever happen between us.  Ever,” he stated firmly and with such conviction.

My whole body went rigid as my eyes darted back and forth trying to figure out how I could have so easily mistaken the glances from him and the attraction I thought was mutual.

“I don’t understand.  Are you not attracted to me?”

Something flashed in his eyes.  Regret maybe?  Frustration perhaps?  I couldn’t tell, but it didn’t matter because he answered, “Doesn’t matter, you and I won’t ever happen, Jolie.”

Thankfully, at that moment, the song ended.

I pulled out of his hold and walked away.  I went to the bathroom so I could pull myself together.  When I stepped out a few minutes later and returned to the reception hall for the dinner, I stopped at the bar and grabbed myself a drink.

If Lorenzo didn’t want me, that was his loss.  Clearly, he believed I wasn’t good enough for him.  That was fine; I was going to enjoy myself tonight.  I kept my attention focused on anyone and anything other than Lorenzo.  As the night went on, I had more drinks and did a lot of dancing.

Putting him out of my mind, or at least telling myself that that is what I was doing, was the best decision I could have made.  Because if I hadn’t, I would have realized that he spent the rest of the night with his eyes on me.

 

 

 

 

 

About A.K. Evans: 

A.K. Evans is a married mother of two boys residing in a small town in northeastern Pennsylvania. After graduating from Lafayette College in 2004 with two degrees (one in English and one in Economics & Business), she pursued a career in the insurance and financial services industry. Not long after, Evans realized the career was not for her. She went on to manage her husband’s performance automotive business and drive the shop race cars for the next thirteen years. While the business afforded her freedoms she wouldn’t necessarily have had in a typical 9-5 job, after eleven years she was no longer receiving personal fulfillment from her chosen career path. Following many discussions, lots of thought, and tons of encouragement, Andrea decided to pursue her dream of becoming a writer.

Between her day job, writing, and homeschooling her two boys, Evans is left with very little free time. When she finds scraps of spare time, Evans enjoys reading, doing yoga, watching NY Rangers hockey, dancing, and vacationing with her family. Andrea, her husband, and her children are currently working on taking road trips to visit all 50 states (though, Alaska and Hawaii might require flights).

 

 

Connect with A.K.:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

Enter A.K.’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

Blog Tour: DRAGO by Sarah Brianne

Today we have an exciting blog tour stop for Sarah Brianne’s DRAGO! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy today!

 

Title: DRAGO

Author: Sarah Brianne

Genre: Romance

 

About Drago:

Drago is the protector, willing to risk his life for the Carusos.

Katarina is a Luciano, protected only by her brothers.

Gunned down by her Family, he is seeking vengeance.

Chosen by his, she’s forced to unite their blood.

 

Marrying her might just be his sweet revenge.

Marrying him would be a marriage made in hell.

 

I’m just a f**king bodyguard.

I’m the f**king devil’s daughter.

 

Get Your Copy Today:

Amazon | iBooks | Nook | Kobo

 

 

About Sarah Brianne:

Hey! My name is Sarah Brianne and after living for twenty-two years the characters in my head told me enough was enough and I have finally put pen to paper (or is it finger to keyboard?) to tell their stories. Since I was a little girl I have watched every chick flick I could get my hands on, then when I became older I discovered a whole new world of romance novels. To me there is nothing better then a tale of true love and those are the stories that have inspired me to write. Like everything else in my life I have put my own spin on two lovers destined to be together.

 

Connect with Sarah:

Website | Facebook | Email | Goodreads | Instagram | Snapchat | Twitter

 

Enter Sarah’s Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway


 

BECOMING HIS by Mariah Dietz – Audiobook Release!

Today we are celebrating the release of the Becoming His audiobook from Mariah Dietz. You can listen to it now on audible.

BECOMING HIS by Mariah Dietz

AUDIOBOOK AVAILABLE NOW!

Blurb:

Sometimes life’s unforeseen paths lead us to discovering sides of ourselves we never knew existed.

Ace Bosse has always found solace at home, but when she returns for the summer from college she builds an unexpected relationship with the reckless Max Miller.

Three years ago, Max left for Alaska to find what he thought he’d lost, but now he realizes just how much he left behind.

Max teaches Ace that sometimes a little crazy is exactly what life needs while learning that some chances are worth taking, regardless of the risks.

But how do you know when you’ve met the right person? And will they be prepared to experience one of life’s biggest obstacles?

Falling in love isn’t easy, but holding on to it is where the real challenge lies.

 

————————————

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 

Mariah Dietz lives with her husband and three sons, who are the axis of her crazy and wonderful world in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Mariah grew up in a tiny town outside of Portland, Oregon, where she spent most of her time immersed in the pages of books that she both read and created.

She has a love for all things that include her family, good coffee, books, traveling, and dark chocolate. She’s also obsessed with Christmas ornaments and all things Disney.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Sign Up For Mariah’s Newsletter

Join Mariah’s Reader Group

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram |  Goodreads  | Bookbub  |  Pinterest

InkSlinger PR Blogger Banner - New

 

Filed Under: Audiobook


Sign up for The Weekly Ink