Sunday, December 31, 2017

My top 4 books of the year

With the year almost over, I was thinking about my favorite top 5 books of this year.  I am wondering if I could even pick just 5.  Let's see if I can.

1. 
Nelumbo Nuciferia by Cristina Slough.
When I finished this book, I had a big smile on my face.  It left me feeling happy.  This book had me on the edge of my seat.  I loved that we got to see the point of view from the female detective and how her childhood molded her life.  This case did a lot for her future.  

2.
One to Watch Me & One to See Me by Alicia Maxwell
I was hooked from the first paragraph.  It was so good.  I wanted to know who was watching her.  Emmeline has always been controlled by her parents and her fiancĂ©, but when she goes on vacation to Miami, she is determined to decide what she wants in her life.

3. 
Survivor by Kayla Marie
Avery is a survivor.  When Avery meets Reid, there is something there.  Something healing for the both of them.  Each has dealt with lose in a different way.  

We are all survivors of something.  Whether it be from an accident, surgery, cancer, or a life changing event.  We all had to pick ourselves up and start fresh.  I also think we all have secrets that we do not want to share with those around us.  This book helped me see that being a Survivor is not a bad thing.  The things we go through only make us stronger. 

4.
The Chase & The Game in the ICON Trilogy by Vanessa Fewings
Are you kidding me?  I knew there would be a cliffhanger, but this one was not what I was expecting.  Once again, there was passion, suspense, and intrigue.  The chemistry between Tobia and Zara was combustible.  Once again, I was confused on the ICON's and Tobias's motivates.  I do not want to say too much.  If you are looking for a series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, you need to read the ICON trilogy. I need to get the last book in this trilogy.


Now these books I chosen as my top 4 was based on one thing: the books made me think.  It had me guessing who, what, when, and why.  I plan to do another top 4 or 5 with my favorite romances.

Happy Reading!
Melissa

Review: A Wedding Tail

For this review, I chose A Wedding Tail by Casey Griffin.

I requested ARC copy of the ebook through Netgalley in exchanged for a honest review.

Here is a brief description from Goodreads:
’TIL DEATH DO US BARK…

Wedding planner Zoe Plum has brides from all walks of life vying for her services. The only problem is: happily-single Zoe doesn’t actually enjoy weddings―but that might change when she meets the singer of a local band playing at one of her weddings. His name is Levi Dolson and he’s too gorgeous for his own good. And now he’s gone ahead and charmed her new dachshund. . .

It’s no secret that Zoe doesn’t believe in fairy tales, but that doesn’t stop her from wanting to make sweet music with Levi. While she’s convinced she doesn’t need a man, when someone starts setting one trap after the next to make sure she never plans a wedding ever again, she might need Levi in more ways than she could have imagined. But just how far is Zoe’s hidden enemy willing to go? The only thing Levi knows for sure is that he will do everything in his power to protect the woman who brings music to his soul. Maybe that will prove to Zoe, once and for all, that he is a man worthy of her heart. . .
 


This is Book #3 in the Rescue Dog Romance series.  I have read both the first 2 books.  I was a little confused why this was called A Wedding Tail until I read that Zoe lost her beloved dachshund and has not found the 'right' dog.  I can understand that since we lost our beloved husky, Zeus, a year ago.  It is still hard to believe he is gone.  We now have a 4 month old puppy, Storm, who is a German Shepherd husky mix.  She has helped our family heal, but will never replace our Zeus.

Zoe is a wonderful and caring wedding planner.  She has someone out to get her.  Too many things are happening around her, but who is doing it?  I loved the guessing it was this or that character.  Zoe meets Levi at the one wedding she is planning.  Somehow Levi gets passed the wall she put up.  I think at first it was due to a crack he made in the wall.  Each time Levi takes anyway another piece of that wall.

Loved this book!  It warmed by heart.  It also had me on the edge of my seat about who is doing what to Zoe. Loved this series!

☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!

Happy Reading!
Melissa 
Review coming next: A Sky Full of Stars by Samantha Chase.

FTC Disclosure: The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company has provided me with a copy of this book for review or I have purchased the book with my own funds.  The opinion I share about the story are mine and have not been influenced by the The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company if received for review.

Review: Lee Hammond's All New Big Book of Drawing

For this review, I chose Lee Hammond's All New Big Book of Drawing

I requested ARC copy of the ebook through Netgalley in exchanged for a honest review.

Here is a brief description from Goodreads:

Master the Essentials of Realistic Drawings

With Lee Hammond's Big Book of Drawing, your art will spring to life! From laughing children and frolicking tigers to fruit so vivid it makes your mouth water, you'll discover how to realistically draw your favorite subjects and how to draw them well! Learn to:


Use easy-to-master graphing and shaping techniques to better portray your subject
Replicate the effects of light through blending and shading
Accurately render the personalities of people and animals
Realistically draw flowers and natural elements by applying hard or soft edges
Achieve a range of effects by using different brands of colored and graphite pencils
Whether you're a beginner or a professional, with Lee Hammond's instruction you'll find the arsenal of tools you need to create stunning, real-life drawings that will captivate your audience.
 


When I saw this on Netgalley, I know I had to try to get it to review.  I realized that I need the actual book to be able to sit down to learn this.  If I had a copy on my ipad, it would have been easier for me to read it better tan in the Adobe Digital Editions program.


I love to draw and paint.  I am always looking for a new book to learn how to make myself a better artist.  My favorite chapter is Chapter 4 on Animal drawing.  I have been looking for other animals besides wolf and dolphins to draw and paint.  I would love to be able to draw our late husky so I could put him up on our living room wall.  

I will need to buy this book in order to practice the techniques mentioned in the book.  I also want to see about the author's other books.


☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!

Happy Reading!
Melissa 
Review coming next: A Wedding Tail by Casey Griffin.

FTC Disclosure: The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company has provided me with a copy of this book for review or I have purchased the book with my own funds.  The opinion I share about the story are mine and have not been influenced by the The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company if received for review.

Review: Almost

For this review, I chose Almost by Danielle Norman.

I received a copy of the ebook for a honest review of this book.


Here is a brief description from Goodreads:
Some people are unforgettable.
Like, the first sheriff that pulled you over for speeding.
The first person to kiss you senseless on the hood of a car.
And, the first guy to make you orgasm.
But, when all of those things are from the same man; let’s just say unforgettable doesn’t even come close.

I wonder if he ever thinks about me and everything we ALMOST had.

~~~

Oh, he remembers and he’s prepared to put his money where his mouth is…



Almost is a second chance romance. Part of the Iron Orchids series but can be read as a stand-alone. It is romcom with a splash of drama.
 




I was up to 5:30a this morning finishing this book.  I could not stop reading.  I was pulled into the book and it would not let me go until I hit 'the end.'  This book had everything I wanted.  Romance with a secret from Carter and Sophia, but Carter's was explosive since he did not know all of it.  I felt this book had a theme of facing your fears.  This was an amazing book!

This is Book #2 in the Iron Orchids series.  I didn't read Book #1, Enough, which I do want to read.  I hope there is a Book #3.


☆☆☆☆☆
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!

Happy Reading!
Melissa 
Review coming next: Lee Hammond's All New Big Book of Drawing

FTC Disclosure: The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company has provided me with a copy of this book for review or I have purchased the book with my own funds.  The opinion I share about the story are mine and have not been influenced by the The Publisher/Author/Book Tour Company if received for review.

Friday, December 29, 2017

Cover Reveal: War of Hearts

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This dark romance will entice & enrapture you! War of Hearts by Julia Sykes is releasing on January 30th CHECK OUT THE COVER! Genre: Dark Romance Menage
War of Hearts Julia Sykes Cover
PREORDER NOW:
Amazon ➙ http://amzn.to/2CF3Bv9 iBooks ➙ http://apple.co/2hJmBQy Barnes & Noble ➙ http://bit.ly/2jfZTjk
I met Marco once, before the night he took me. He’d been dark and unquestionably dangerous, and alluring in a way I didn’t allow myself to contemplate. I’d clung to Joseph, looking to my first love to protect me from his intimidating best friend. Then Joseph left me, alone and broken; vulnerable to enemies I hadn’t known threatened me from the shadows. But it wasn’t his enemies I should have feared, since his best friend is the monster who abducted me. And when I wake up, taken and trapped, the man I love is by the monster’s side. Joseph says he can’t let me go. Marco says he won’t let me go. I’m theirs. About the Author: Julia Sykes is the USA Today bestselling author of the Impossible Series. She has always kept dark stories tucked away in her mind, so she was thrilled when she discovered that other people actually want to read them. Her books blend romance, suspense, and BDSM. You can usually find Julia in Starbucks with a venti iced coffee clutched in her hand (two pumps of mocha, liberal half and half). If she's not in Starbucks, you will find her with a glass of prosecco in hand, probably reading Harry Potter. Again. Julia loves connecting with readers! Please feel free to contact her on facebook, through twitter, or email her directly at juliasykes193@gmail.com. You can find out more about Julia's current and future projects at julia-sykes.com. Connect with Julia: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjuliasykes/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/JuliaSykes193 Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/julia-sykes Website: http://www.julia-sykes.com/

Thursday, December 28, 2017

Preorder Blitz: #Starstruck



Title: #Starstruck (#Lovestruck, #1) 
Author: Sariah Wilson 
Genre: Contemporary Romance/ Romantic Comedy
Release Date: January 16, 2018 
Cover Designer: Micheal Rehder 



With one uncharacteristically sassy tweet to her longtime celebrity crush, Zoe Miller’s life turns upside down. Ultrahot A-lister Chase Covington doesn’t just respond to Zoe’s tweet, he does the unthinkable: he messages Zoe directly. Now she must decide between walking away or meeting her crush in person.
Chase knows better than to trust anyone from the Internet, but Zoe’s saucy challenge has totally caught his interest—and her girl-next-door personality is keeping it. He’s been burned enough to know he needs to keep his heart close. But his feelings for Zoe might be a lot more than just an online flirtation. He just has to convince her…
When the press gets wind of Zoe and Chase’s secret relationship, their romance turns into tabloid headlines. Will they be able to hold on to their Hollywood love story?

Pre Order on Amazon Today



Bestselling author Sariah Wilson has never jumped out of an airplane, never climbed Mt. Everest, and is not a former CIA operative. She has, however, been madly, passionately in love with her soulmate and is a fervent believer in happily ever afters--which is why she writes romance. She has published many happily ever after stories. She grew up in southern California, graduated from Brigham Young University (go Cougars!) with a semi-useless degree in history, and is the oldest of nine (yes, nine) children. She currently lives with the aforementioned soulmate and their four children in Utah, along with three tiger barb fish, a cat named Tiger, and a recently departed hamster that is buried in the backyard (and has nothing at all to do with tigers).





Excerpt Reveal: Sheltered Hearts

Elegant couple posing while holding arms, both looking at the camera.
Sheltered Heart by Eva Charles releases January 11!
Check out this sweet and spicy excerpt:
Sophie
I washed my face and fell into bed, but sleep didn’t come. My mind kept wandering to Max, and that not-so-little package below his belt that burrowed into my belly while we danced. Those thoughts did little to relax me.
With each breath, my nipples rubbed against the fabric of my camisole, the tips so sensitive it felt as though my pajamas were made of coarse sandpaper. After a little while, the heightened sensation began to trigger an urge lower, much lower. It had been ages since I’d danced with a man I wasn’t related to, and even longer since one caused a delicious ache between my legs. A headache was the only ache I’d gotten from a man in years.
Painfully aroused and unable to get comfortable, I boxed with my pillow, punching until I’d flattened it into submission.
What’s wrong with me?
It didn’t matter how blue those eyes were or how unbelievable his hands felt on my skin, I wouldn’t fall prey to the same mistake. I just couldn’t. Was my self-esteem still so fragile that I was only attracted to womanizers? Did I honestly believe they were the only type of man I deserved?
No, and no.
Despite what Eric wanted me to believe, I deserved a man who respected women—one who respected me. Max Parker wasn’t that man. He was the kind of man who took his pleasure and then moved on—nightly. Not your type, Sophie.
Tossing and turning, I worked myself into a huff, incensed that he’d accused me of dating Daniel for his money. Max didn’t know me, but tunnel vision had closed him off to any other possibility. Instead, it led him to the precipice of a ridiculous conclusion, and then he leaped right in, like an impulsive child. His rude behavior reminded me of the way my cousins acted when my sisters and I brought home dates, but even more pathological. Hard to believe it was even possible.
I’d let him get under my skin, let him irritate me to the point where I lost every bit of composure and called him an ass. But I refused to feel bad about that. He deserved it. Besides, it was true. He was an ass—a drop-dead gorgeous, self-absorbed ass, one who had just enough swagger to leave me needy and wanting.
hands felt on my skin, I wouldn’t fall prey to the same mistake. I just couldn’t. Was my self-esteem still so fragile that I was only attracted to womanizers? Did I honestly believe they were the only type of man I deserved?
No, and no.
Despite what Eric wanted me to believe, I deserved a man who respected women—one who respected me. Max Parker wasn’t that man. He was the kind of man who took his pleasure and then moved on—nightly. Not your type, Sophie.
Tossing and turning, I worked myself into a huff, incensed that he’d accused me of dating Daniel for his money. Max didn’t know me, but tunnel vision had closed him off to any other possibility. Instead, it led him to the precipice of a ridiculous conclusion, and then he leaped right in, like an impulsive child. His rude behavior reminded me of the way my cousins acted when my sisters and I brought home dates, but even more pathological. Hard to believe it was even possible.
I’d let him get under my skin, let him irritate me to the point where I lost every bit of composure and called him an ass. But I refused to feel bad about that. He deserved it. Besides, it was true. He was an ass—a drop-dead gorgeous, self-absorbed ass, one who had just enough swagger to leave me needy and wanting.
Maybe my sisters were right. Maybe I needed to stop hiding behind my work and make a concerted effort to start dating again. It was the last coherent thought I had before my fingers slid down my belly.
SH_ER_1
Max
It had been a banner night. First, I wrongly accused a woman I just met of using her body to extort money from my father. And even after I groveled, she continued to ridicule me, showing absolutely no mercy. She practically accused me of being a monster who preyed on young women because I had something to prove. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Yes, it’s true I preferred younger women, but it’s because they normally expected less from me. Friends with benefits was a concept they appreciated.
The last thirty-something-year-old I went out with, Sharrin, informed me—right before she threw a bookend at my head—that I was the perfect date: a hard-to-get theatre ticket, an exclusive dinner reservation, an attentive lover, generous with my money and my body—and then she picked up the bookend and let it rip like a major league pitcher, shrieking that I was an emotionless bastard who would die alone, surrounded by nothing but empty whiskey bottles.
She was partially right. I guarded my heart closely, gave it to no one. But I also never promised anyone anything more than a good time. Still, there were women like Sharrin who thought they could change me. Women who were old enough to know better. Over time I learned to avoid them, no matter how tempting.
When I put my mind to it, there’s no one more disciplined than I am. It’s how I achieved success in business so quickly. Not much rattled me, at least outwardly, but Sophie Clayton and that business with my father threw me for a loop tonight. Or maybe it was just Sophie who had gotten to me. She’d pushed every single one of my buttons—again.
The more I thought about it, the less I liked it. Now I just wanted to sleep and erase all memory of her. But my mind and body conspired to keep me awake, tossing and turning, while the minutes became hours. I tried to take the edge off, but it didn’t do a damn bit of good. All I could think about was how she smelled, and how good she felt in my arms while we danced. And how she’d feel clenched around my throbbing cock. Unfuckingbelievable, if anyone wants to know.
SH_ER_2
FOLLOW EVA FOR UPDATES ►►► http://amzn.to/2Cafeej
About Eva Charles
Eva Charles is the author of the multi-titled Meadows Shore Series that chronicles the lives and loves of the Clayton-Harrington family. She invites you to visit their beloved Meadows Shore nestled in the charming seaside town of Fair Harbor, where you will enjoy love, laughter, loyalty, and an abundance of mouth-watering food, Portuguese style. After being a confirmed city-girl for more than thirty-five years, Eva moved to beautiful Western Massachusetts in 2014. There, she found herself living in the woods with no job, no friends (unless you count the turkeys, deer, and coyotes roaming the backyard), and no children underfoot, wondering what on earth she'd been thinking. But as it turned out, it was the perfect setting to take all those yarns spinning in her head and weave them into a romantic tale. When she's not writing, trying to squeeze information out of her tight-lipped sons, or playing with the two cutest dogs you've ever seen, Eva's creating chapters in her own love story.

Excerpt Reveal: Almost

Almost_Ebook
It's ALMOST here! Almost by Danielle Norman releases January 4!
IBOOKS READERS PRE-ORDER NOW → http://apple.co/2jwRidd Almost will NOT be available on iBooks after release!
EVERYONE ELSE GET YOUR ONE-CLICK ON: Amazon US → http://amzn.to/2Atr7LF Amazon UK → http://amzn.to/2AM2eNN Amazon CA → http://amzn.to/2BDLmXb Amazon AU → http://amzn.to/2ATCEXX
Close-up portrait of the smart couple
Get a little taste of Carter and Sophia RIGHT NOW:
“Did you mean it when you said you would do anything to make this right between us?” His voice was a cross between a purr and a growl, it was seductive.
“I did.”
“Well, I know what it is, it’s what I need, what I’ve always needed.”
“What?” Goose bumps trailed along my arms, and a little tremor quivered in my voice.
“I need our one night. I need to know you in every way possible. I’ve needed it for ten years.”
I froze at his words, stopped swaying to the rhythm of the song, and took a step back. Holy fuck. That? Of all the things . . . that is what he asked for? Could I give him that and still walk away, let him be with other women? He deserved someone else. Carter Lang was a good man. He would make an amazing father and an even greater husband . . . for someone, not me.
“Sophia.”
I glanced up, meeting his eyes again at his use of my real name, no nickname.
“Princess, I need this, I want this. I’ve wanted you, dreamed of you for ten years.” He pulled me back in, holding me flush against him, and his thick hard shaft was rigid and pressing against me, proof that he definitely wanted me. “What do you want?”
That was a loaded question, what did I want? I wanted to be eighteen again and have a different life. I wanted a night with him. I wanted to be a wife, a mom, a lover . . . his lover.
“I want you, one night.” But how could I keep him from seeing? Curling my shoulders forward, I caught myself going into my natural protective mode. It’s what took the focus off my chest and put it more on the rest of my body. It was as close to a ball that I could make myself.
“Soph, look at me. Are you sure?”
I nodded. I could do one night. I walked away once, I could do it again, right?
He bent and lightly nibbled on my ear. “I have a room.”
My body uncurled and extended as shivers raced down my spine and every hair raised. I was on the verge of losing control. I had to remind myself of things that normally came naturally. Breathe in, breathe out, deep breaths. I kept telling myself that I could do this, I could so do this.
Carter’s soft tug on my hand had me following him out of the ballroom and to the bank of elevators. We walked in and the doors closed. Watching as he pressed number seven, then a second later, the doors slid open. The whole way up neither of us said anything, and I spent the time wondering just how horrible and stupid of a decision this was. He opened his hotel room door and held it while I walked under his arm. Before the door slammed shut, his hands were on my hips, and he turned me to face him. This was it, the moment of truth, the failsafe line.
Elegant guy and his wife
About Danielle
Danielle is a Harley riding romance writer. Most days she can be found in jeans, t-shirts, and pearls (she's a lady like that). Danielle writes about men that will open the door for you during the day and throw you against them at night. She loves stories that will make you laugh and fall in love without all of the emotional baggage faced every day in our real lives. And her talent is the ability to tell the difference between a rye, wheat, corn, or potato vodka in just 1 sip, but she prefers a few glasses just to be certain.

Teaser Share: Deep

Your next binge read is coming... #TeaserThursday
Deep by M. Malone & Nana Malone releases on January 8th!




Amazon Alert: http://bit.ly/2zAkxC1
ibooks: http://apple.co/2By4TIs
Nook: http://bit.ly/2AILJCT
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2AHoZmA

I am the ghost that haunts your dreams. I am a liar, a protector...a killer...I am death.

You think you know my story, but you have no idea. My death was just the beginning.

I’m a dead man.

In the years since I escaped the shadow organization that owned me, my vow to protect my family is the only thing that kept me alive.

Until I meet her.

Too bad I need the monster to protect her from the demons of her past.

Too bad she’s not that innocent.

Cliffhanger Warning: I know you want the whole story right now. But that's not how things went down. And I think you know by now when it comes to ORUS, things don't always go according to f*cking plan.

(The Deep Duet unfolds over the course of two books. Deep will be followed by Deeper, releasing on January 29th)

Teaser Share: A Perfect Fit

Are you ready for a sweet small town romance with feels?!
A Perfect Fit by Zoe Lee releases on JANUARY 4th!
ADD TO YOUR TBR → http://bit.ly/2iu2kPk



Two big hearts, one big messy ride.

Daisy Rhys is trying to sneak away from a wedding reception, when Dunk McCoy—the sexy high school football coach and guy known for a good time—comes to her rescue. He's sweet, nice and keeps putting his foot in his mouth. Daisy is totally delighted. A quick rescue turns into a full on press of a different kind. Their chemistry is something different than Daisy has ever experienced but it looks like one-night was all that was meant to be.

The next morning, Dunk McCoy wakes up after the best sex dream of his life. But when his friends point out that he’s sporting a hickey, he’s adamant that his Cinderella could be perfect for him. He’s determined to find her, and his laughing, disbelieving friends are only too happy to send him on her trail.

Can he convince her that he wasn't just trying to score? Or will Dunk's attempt at true love be benched for good?

Excerpt Reveal: The Thing About Love

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An emotional and unforgettable new romance from New York Times bestselling author Kim Karr. The Thing About Love releases on JANUARY 3rd!
Keep reading for an excerpt!
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ADD to your TBR → http://bit.ly/2hb3Ll8 BLOGGERS sign up here → https://goo.gl/forms/fAUx4UHUaT2ZDmv32
The whole stethoscope-and-white coat thing isn’t my cup of tea. I prefer a man with an artistic vein in his body. 9 - 5 hours. And I can definitely do without the half-lidded, sleepy bedroom eyes. (Okay, so those are kind of sexy.) Tall, dark, and handsome doesn’t change the fact that he’s arrogant, cocky, and rude. Not that I care, but he’s made it clear he wants nothing to do with a quirky girl like me, which is why he said no. Turns out no isn’t an option. I have a quickie wedding to plan, and Dr. Jake Kissinger doesn’t have a choice. He looks at our situation like he’s stuck with me, but in reality I’m stuck with him. Stuck with his pouty mouth. His long, lean body. And stuck with those loose, low riding scrub pants. (Okay, so the doctor thing is growing on me.) When spending time together turns into more than it should, I know I’m in trouble. He isn’t supposed to make my heart pound. I’m not supposed to make him look twice. And we aren’t supposed to spend the night together. (Okay, so he has more than one artistic vein in his body, and other places.) Falling for him is definitely a mistake. Here’s the thing… Jake is unavailable, and I know it. Just not in the way you might think. I guess you can’t have your cake and eat it too.
TTAL_TEASER4
EXCERPT:
THE THING ABOUT LOVE By Kim Karr Copyright 2017 If a barn could be magical, this one was definitely enchanting. I was in a daze as I looked around. The rafters. The tables. The river. They all seemed to sparkle with a light I wanted to capture. “Isn’t that right, sweetie?” The voice was deep and husky, but I was in my own world imaging what I could do with a place like this and not paying any attention. An elbow nudged me, and it wasn’t until then that I realized I was sweetie. Sweetie? Seriously, the man with the DR before his name couldn’t find something a little sexier in his vocabulary to call me? Sugarcakes. Honeypie. Cookie, even. “What’s that Chocolate Cake?” I smiled big and wide when I said it. Obviously, he was giving this little show all he had, so I figured I might as well, too. Ignoring my taunt, Jake draped an arm around my chair just as Shania Twain’s “Any Man of Mine” came bellowing through the speakers. When his fingertips brushed my shoulder, I wasn’t listening to the beat of the music though because butterflies took flight in my belly, and lower. I had to remind myself that this was part of the show, but still, I found myself having to squeeze my thighs together to sooth the ache his touch had ignited. “I was just telling George how much you love to dance. Especially square dance,” he said. I had been reaching for my water, and I practically spilled it when he said that. Was he out of his ever-loving mind? I didn’t know a thing about country dancing other than the fact that the word do-si-do had something to do with it. I tucked a piece of hair behind my ear. “Yes, big boy, I do like to dance, but you know I prefer to watch you line dance because you’re so great at it. Besides, don’t forget, I did hurt my ankle not that long ago.” His grin was beyond wicked. “You can be a klutz sometimes, but I seem to recall you assuring me your ankle was absolutely fine, and after I checked it out, I did concur with your self-diagnosis.” Ethel tapped George on the shoulder, and when he looked at her, she whispered something in his ear. “Did you say you wanted to dance, Jules?” George asked me over the music. Before I could say no, George was on his feet and standing beside me with his hand extended. “Would you do me the honor of having this dance with me?” Like I could say no now. He really was so sweet. Dr. Kiss, on the other hand, well he was the devil reincarnated. “I’d be delighted,” I said and glared at Jake as I stood. “Have fun, Sweetie,” Jake grinned. I bent to whisper in his ear. “While I’m gone, do you think you could come up with something to call me that doesn’t make you sound like you might be George’s age.” He narrowed that blue-eyed stare at me. Satisfied with that, I pivoted around and didn’t look back. The bridesmaids, in their short, peach dresses and cowboy boots, were having a blast stomping their feet and clapping their hands all while shaking their behinds and pressing their thumbs into their sides. How on earth were George and I going to dance to this? Thank God just when we reached the center of the dance floor, the music changed, and Tim McGraw’s voice came overhead. As Tim sang about how no one ever made him feel the way she did, George and I stepped into position. He took my hands and started to move, ballroom style. This type of dancing I knew how to do. “So,” he said, “When are you and Jake planning on getting hitched?” Up until now, I had been able to twist what I said so it didn’t sound like a blatant lie, but this question was pretty straightforward. “We haven’t decided yet.” Which was true. In fact, we hadn’t decided a lot. Like as a starting point, if we were friends or enemies. “I noticed you ain’t wearing a ring. He not gotten you one yet?” “That’s complicated,” I answered. And it was. He hadn’t gotten me one and he never would because he didn’t even like me, and after tonight, I was fairly certain he wouldn’t be able to stand me. “Well, he’s a good man. Give him some time. He’ll come around.” Yes, he’d come around all right. Come around to telling me I was fired, which reminded me of Finn. Where had he gotten his information? I leaned back. “Is Labor Day weekend available for a wedding?” George started to laugh. “You’ll give the man a heart attack if you make him move that fast.” “Oh, I know, but just in case, is it?” “As a matter of fact, it might be. A lad called here today inquiring about it though, and I told him to come up and see the place before I reserved it for him. Since he ain’t shown, I reckon it could be yours.” “Good to know.” I winked. He raised a curious brow. I shrugged. “Just in case.” Yes, just in case I decided to come clean. And just in case I could figure out how this place was suitable for Rory. But even as I thought it, I knew it wasn’t. I nearly missed a step when I caught a glimpse of Jake leaning against the wall, watching us. He threw me off, and I had to order myself to tune back into George for the remainder of the dance. My lack of focus had to cease right now because the bottom line was that at the moment I couldn’t allow myself to be thrown off course. When the music ended, I stepped back and curtsied. “Thanks for indulging me.” George gave my hand a squeeze. “You and the Doc are really quite a couple.” “Thank you,” I told him, but I knew I should have been correcting him instead. I hated the lie, but I couldn’t undo it now, nor could I stop what he was doing. George had signaled Jake over, and he had started to move. All tall, dark, and handsome, he strutted my way with a cat that ate the canary grin on his face. I wanted to wipe it away—with my lips. No, I didn’t mean that. “It’s your turn,” George told him. “Oh, but he only likes to line dance,” I said. George laughed like it was a joke and strode toward his Ethel, who had started clearing the buffet table. “May I?” Jake asked, all debonair-like. “I don’t know, may you?” He shook his head. “Just give me your hands, will you? I’d hate to ruin George and Ethel’s night by admitting this was all a ruse.” “Grrr…You are so frustrating,” I said offering my hands. He laced his fingers in mine and drew me close. “Did you just growl?” With a frown, I placed my hands on his shoulders. “I did no such thing.” His hands fit my waist like they were made for me. “Yes, you did. And smile, they’re looking at us.” Forcing myself to keep the corners of my mouth tilted upwards was very difficult because I could barely breathe when he slid his thigh between mine. The crowd surged around us, and just like that, I forgot this wasn’t real. We were aligned thigh-to-thigh, belly-to-belly. If I turned my head, our mouths would be close enough to kiss. Silly thought. We moved together, and when my hands slid from his shoulder to cup the back of his neck, the edges of his soft brown hair tickled my knuckles. The heat of his skin was almost too much, as was the feel of his body so close to mine. When his fingers splayed against my back and lingered there, I could have sworn the music thumped in the pit of my stomach, my wrists, and especially between my thighs “What are you doing?” I asked. He moved closer to me. “I believe it’s called dancing.” “Are you still acting? Because if you are, George and Ethel are no longer watching us.” I whispered this in his ear. “Does it matter?” he answered back, and when he did his breath caressed my ear. “Do you want it to?” He pulled back to look into my eyes, his smile less bemused and his gaze bright. “Do you always answer a question with a question?” “Only when…I’m talking to you.” My hesitation sounded coy, but I hadn’t meant it to. Scared of something, but no idea what of, I said, “This place isn’t that bad. It just needs some more sparkle.” “Sparkle?” “Yes, like crystal chandeliers hanging from the beams.” He chuckled. “I don’t think crystal chandeliers are George and Ethel’s style.” “No,” I said. “We should probably go. You were right to begin with, this place isn’t appropriate for your sister’s wedding.” All of a sudden, the music ended, and before I could say another word, I was being pushed into a very grabby crowd of women. Oh, no! The bouquet toss. I had to get out of here. I bent down and crawled around, through, and practically under, a number of jumping cowboy boots. “One.” “Two.” “Three.” Rushing out of the side of the crowd, I stood up, and I could hardly believe it when the bouquet landed at my feet. Without thinking, I picked it up to throw it back into the crowd, but it was too late. “Oh Jules, you caught it.” It was Ethel, and she was escorting me to the front of the room. When I saw George leading Jake there as well, I wanted to end this charade. It was too much to handle. Having him so close was too much to handle. He was too much to handle. George and Ethel pushed us both together, and all of the girls started chanting, “Seal the deal. Seal the deal.” “What are they talking about?” Jake muttered. “Kiss her, Doc,” George clarified for me, and before either of us could step away from each other, George and Ethel were once again pushing us together. I landed against Jake’s hard chest. My mouth flew open in surprise, and a small sigh escaped. My lips were so close to his. Tantalizingly close. I wanted to close the distance so very much. He was breathing heavy, and I could see the muscle twitch at his temple, witness how tight his jaw was. Everything about him screamed he was holding himself back. We were both losing that battle though. Whether out of obligation, pressure, or need, his mouth came crashing down over mine, in the hardest, heated, and most demanding way. Oh, God, I wanted this. Wanted him. Especially when his tongue pushed inward, hot and sensual. It glided over mine as he licked at the roof of my mouth and swirled around my tongue in the most erotic dance. His lips were so soft. His mouth so hot. His possession unlike any I’d ever experienced. I could hear the catcalls, but ignored them all because he wasn’t simply kissing me, he wasn’t just sealing the deal, he was devouring me. In that moment, any other man I’d ever kissed faded away. No one had ever kissed me this way.
TTAL_SmashedCake
About the Author: Kim Karr is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author. She grew up in Rochester, NY and now lives in Florida with her husband and four kids. She’s always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, she wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. She went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise her family. Kim currently works part-time with her husband and recently decided to embrace one of her biggest passions–writing. Kim wears a lot of hats! Writer, book-lover, wife, soccer-mom, taxi driver, and the all around go-to person of her family. However, she always finds time to read. One of her favorite family outings was taking her kids when they were little to the bookstore or the library. Today, Kim’s oldest child is seventeen and no longer goes with her on these, now rare and infrequent, outings. She finds that she doesn’t need to go on them anymore because she has the greatest device ever invented–a Kindle. Kim likes to believe in soul mates, kindred spirits, true friends, and Happily-Ever-Afters. She loves to drink champagne, listen to music, and hopes to always stay young at heart. Link with Kim! Website: http://www.authorkimkarr.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKimKarr Twitter: https://twitter.com/authorkimkarr Instagram: https://instagram.com/authorkimkarr/ Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6644044.Kim_Karr Amazon: http://amzn.to/2k8QjDi Newsletter: http://bit.ly/1RzcHz3