Review – The Friend Zone SERIES by Abby Jimenez

The Friend Zone Book Series by Abby Jimenez

The Friend Zone Series – Series of Books by Abby Jimenez

The Friend Zone – 2019

The Happily Ever After Playlist – 2020

Life’s Too Short – 2021

 

BFF K’s Review of The Friend Zone SERIES by Abby Jimenez

This is what I refer to really loosely as a series. The characters in the first 2 books are best friends and the hero of book 1 is related to the hero in book 3. I actually read them out of order. I read the Happily Ever After Playlist first. (And, it’s been optioned for a major motion picture!) Then Life’s Too Short and The Friend Zone.

Each of these books follow a well-known trope – in each book the heroine has some reason to keep the hero at arms-length, they’re put in “the friend zone”. But, that’s where the tried and true ends. These books are really fresh and each have interesting, unique plot twists and modern inventive characters.

The Friend Zone – Infertility

The Happily Ever After Playlist – Reclaiming life after loss

Life’s Too Short – Facing a hereditary illness and owning how you want to live your life

The romance is heart-felt.

The worlds are contemporary.

The emotions are real. Each of these books made me laugh and cry and I couldn’t read or listen fast enough. I had to know what would happen next.

But, as is the hallmark of Romance, each of these books ended with a Happily Ever After for the main characters. I’ve said it before, but part of the reason I read romance is that I know there will be an uplifting payoff at the end of my read. That is comforting and reassuring to me! I want to know that the characters will have a Happily Ever After or at least a Happily For Now!

Each of these books is an absolute HOME RUN for me and they’re perfect for devoted Romance readers or those just tipping their toes in the Romance genre. You will not be disappointed!

 

 

About the Author

 

Abby Jimenez is a Food Network winner and New York Times best selling author. Abby founded Nadia Cakes out of her home kitchen back in 2007. The bakery has since gone on to win numerous Food Network competitions and has amassed an international cult following.

Abby loves a good romance, coffee, doglets, and not leaving the house.

 

 

 

Review – Happy Singles Day by Ann Marie Walker

Single and proud of it! Oh, oops…

As a Certified Professional Organizer, everything in Paige Parker’s world is as it should be. Perfect apartment, perfect office, perfect life. And now, the perfect vacation planned to honor Singles Day. After all, what’s better than celebrating her pride in being single? Because who needs a man anyway? They have zero taste in quality television, leave the toilet seat up, and sleep with your best friend. No thanks. Her life is fine just the way it is.

As the owner of a now-dormant bed & breakfast, Lucas Croft’s life is simple and quiet. It’s only him and his five-year-old daughter, which is just the way he likes it. Because who needs a woman anyway? They nag you to clean up your stuff, want the toilet seat put down, and expect the dishes to be done the same day the meal is cooked. No thanks. His life is fine just the way it is.

But when Paige books a room that Lucas’ well-intentioned sister listed without his knowledge, their two worlds collide. If they can survive the week together, they just might discover exactly what they’ve both been missing.

Buy Happy Singles Day on Amazon today!

 

BFF K’s Review of Happy Singles Day

This is the sweetest story! Ann Marie Walker has created absolutely realistic, believable characters, and plopped them in a stunning setting. Happy Singles Day is just the right mix of emotionally bruised hero and heroine, cute kid, puppies and cake and this story is an absolute dream to read!

There is tension and emotion and some really weighty things that both Paige and Lucas carry in their past. But, being thrown together to ride out a storm in a questionable B&B leaves them little choice but to get to know one another. It’s a delicate dance but they perform it beautifully discovering so much about themselves, each other and their capacities for both love and change.

The build up is great, but most of the steamy-ish scenes are pretty much fade to black. Though they certainly pack enough emotion that you don’t really miss the steam. The characters and settings are unique and lovingly-well-developed! I enjoyed Happy Singles Day immensely and highly recommend it for a Valentine’s Day read or any day you want to get lost in good story! ❤️

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

About the Author

Ann Marie Walker is the author of nine novels, ranging from romantic suspense to romantic comedy. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and ’80s rom-coms. Her superpower is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends, and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. You can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com, where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis, or Chewbacca, the Morkie who is kind enough to let her sit on his couch. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Review – Simmer Down by Sarah Smith

In this finger-licking good rom-com, two is the perfect number of cooks in the kitchen.

Nikki DiMarco knew life wouldn’t be all sunshine and coconuts when she quit her dream job to help her mom serve up mouthwatering Filipino dishes to hungry beach goers, but she didn’t expect the Maui food truck scene to be so eat-or-be-eaten—or the competition to be so smoking hot.

But Tiva’s Filipina Kusina has faced bigger road bumps than the arrival of Callum James. Nikki doesn’t care how delectable the British food truck owner is—he rudely set up shop next to her coveted beach parking spot. He’s stealing her customers and fanning the flames of a public feud that makes her see sparks.

The solution? Let the upcoming Maui Food Festival decide their fate. Winner keeps the spot. Loser pounds sand. But the longer their rivalry simmers, the more Nikki starts to see a different side of Callum…a sweet, protective side. Is she brave enough to call a truce? Or will trusting Callum with her heart mean jumping from the frying pan into the fire?

Purchase Here

Amazon

Barnes & Noble     Books A Million     Bookshop     Hudson Booksellers     IndieBound     Powell’s     Target     Walmart

 

BFF K’s Review of Simmer Down

So…..now I just want to fly to Hawaii and eat all of the delicious food. I mean, if we’re honest, I always want to do that, but this book really put me in the mood for a culinary adventure mixed with a little romance.

Nikki and Callum are the epitome of enemies-to-lovers. Their bitter feud covers up a really intense attraction….for awhile. When they find themselves thrown together they discover that they can really heat things up in the kitchen and the bedroom. And, the reader is lucky to be along for the ride.

Callum is a terrific Hero. He’s caring and reasonable and lets Nikki know how special she is. Nikki is complicated. She listens to Callum but doesn’t always hear him. She gets in her own way, a lot. But, you will still root for her and Callum to figure their s@#$ out!

I adore Nikki’s mom and Callum’s brother. They add depth and spice to the story. But, I can’t forget about the real star of the story – the food! Oh the food! The description of countless dishes and their preparation will make your mouth water and have you searching for local restaurants to devour these delicacies. You will literally want to lick up every last drop of this story!

An advance copy of this book was received. The reviewer purchased the audiobook copy. Receipt of the advance copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

 

Sarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie’s stash of romance novels. She’s been hooked ever since. When she’s not writing, you can find her hiking, eating chocolate, and perfecting her lumpia recipe. She lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband and adorable cat Salem.

 

 

Review – In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren

THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

One Christmas wish, two brothers, and a lifetime of hope are on the line for hapless Maelyn Jones in In a Holidaze, the quintessential holiday romantic novel by Christina Lauren, the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year…but not for Maelyn Jones. She’s living with her parents, hates her going-nowhere job, and has just made a romantic error of epic proportions.

But perhaps worst of all, this is the last Christmas Mae will be at her favorite place in the world—the snowy Utah cabin where she and her family have spent every holiday since she was born, along with two other beloved families. Mentally melting down as she drives away from the cabin for the final time, Mae throws out what she thinks is a simple plea to the universe: Please. Show me what will make me happy.

The next thing she knows, tires screech and metal collides, everything goes black. But when Mae gasps awake…she’s on an airplane bound for Utah, where she begins the same holiday all over again. With one hilarious disaster after another sending her back to the plane, Mae must figure out how to break free of the strange time loop—and finally get her true love under the mistletoe.

Jam-packed with yuletide cheer, an unforgettable cast of characters, and Christina Lauren’s trademark “downright hilarious” (Helen Hoang, author of The Bride Test) hijinks, this swoon-worthy romantic read will make you believe in the power of wishes and the magic of the holidays.

Purchase it today

More links listed below after author bios!

 

BFF K’s Review of In a Holidaze

In a Holidaze is a classic Christina Lauren novel: endearing, clever, great characters, witty banter and a unique storyline that keeps you wondering what’s coming next. This novel has upbeat charm and reminded me of their earlier novels. I enjoyed it immensely!

I’m sure every review of this book will note that it’s Groundhog Day meets Christmas. But, it still needs to be said. And it is also delightfully sweet and fun. Thank goodness Mae works out the clues and only jumps back in time a handful of times so the story moves forward quickly. The bulk of the story is a darling friends-to-lovers romp that is entertaining and heartwarming.

I love the emphasis of chosen family in the story. The entwined families and their shared lives enhance the holiday aspect of the story, but it’s not overwhelmingly-Christmasy. They’re a crazy crew I would love to spend a holiday with them AND I would love to know who the other brother ends up with!

If you’re struggling (because 2020) and feeling overwhelmed or just looking to jumpstart the holiday spirit, you should definitely pick up a copy of In a Holidaze! It’s a perfect gift for you!

 

 

 

An advance copy of this book was received. The reviewer purchased the audiobook copy. Receipt of the advance copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Authors

NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY AND #1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING AUTHORS


Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of long-time writing partners/besties/soulmates/brain-twins Christina Hobbs and Lauren Billings. The coauthor duo writes both Young Adult and Adult Fiction, and together has produced fourteen New York Times bestselling novels. Their books have been translated into 30+ languages.

You can find them online at ChristinaLaurenBooks.com or at @seeCwrite (Christina), @LolaShoes (Lauren), or @ChristinaLauren on Twitter.

 

More purchase links!

Review – Keeping Score by Alyssa Kale


One more careless mistake and I could lose the career I’ve worked my entire life for—I could lose everything. My last year has been wrapped in one scandal after another, and I am done.

Done with the jersey chasers.

And done with women… for the time being.

Or so I thought.

Sophie Thomas, a local magazine photographer, is my undoing. She’s bright, she’s funny, and her very being just draws me in. I know I need to stay away, but there’s something about her—a sadness almost—that keeps pulling me back to her.

Maybe I’m not quite as done with everything as I once believed.

 

Purchase Links

Amazon ➜ https://amzn.to/2Gt6RkP

Apple ➜ https://apple.co/2Qz4NsT

Nook ➜ https://bit.ly/3b6WcqL

Kobo ➜ https://bit.ly/2EEFNOx

Add to Goodreads ➜ https://bit.ly/3jp1qRH

 

BFF K’s Review of Keeping Score

Never in a million years would I guess this is a debut novel! I loved this book and characters so much! I’ve been in and out of reading-funks this past year. (Thanks, Corona virus!) After starting and stopping about 4 different books, I opened up Keeping Score and was thrilled when I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter was better than the last and I couldn’t wait to know happened next. I read the entire book in less than 24 hours and loved every minute of it!

Sophie is a terrific heroine. She’s tough and tender at the same time. Braxton has a bad boy reputation that overshadows his true nature. He’s battling some demons that have a serious impact on his outlook and relationships. Sophie doesn’t let him get away with anything and forces him to man up.

The HEA is a fantastic pay-off for a fast-paced, heart-warming story that you won’t want to put down! I can’t recommend Keeping Score strongly enough and I’m desperately hoping Alyssa Kale’s first novel won’t be her last!

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

About the Author

Alyssa Kale, better known as Alyssa Garcia, is a debut author that really got her start in the industry as a book blogger, then a cover designer, then she got into the busy world of PR and marketing. It was only a matter of time before she actually sat down and wrote a book considering how intertwined her life is with the industry.

Website: https://alyssakale.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyssakaleauthor/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alyssakaleauthor/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/alyssamg89

 

 

Review – American Royals by Katharine McGee

New York Times Best Seller

What if America had a royal family? If you can’t get enough of Harry and Meghan or Kate and William, meet American princesses Beatrice and Samantha. Crazy Rich Asians meets The Crown.

Perfect for fans of Red, White, and Royal Blue and The Royal We!

Two princesses vying for the ultimate crown. Two girls vying for the prince’s heart. This is the story of the American royals.

When America won the Revolutionary War, its people offered General George Washington a crown. Two and a half centuries later, the House of Washington still sits on the throne. Like most royal families, the Washingtons have an heir and a spare. A future monarch and a backup battery. Each child knows exactly what is expected of them. But these aren’t just any royals. They’re American.

As Princess Beatrice gets closer to becoming America’s first queen regnant, the duty she has embraced her entire life suddenly feels stifling. Nobody cares about the spare except when she’s breaking the rules, so Princess Samantha doesn’t care much about anything, either…except the one boy who is distinctly off-limits to her. And then there’s Samantha’s twin, Prince Jefferson. If he’d been born a generation earlier, he would have stood first in line for the throne, but the new laws of succession make him third. Most of America adores their devastatingly handsome prince…but two very different girls are vying to capture his heart.

The duty. The intrigue. The Crown.

New York Times best-selling author Katharine McGee imagines an alternate version of the modern world, one where the glittering age of monarchies has not yet faded – and where love is still powerful enough to change the course of history.

“The lives of the American royal family will hook you in the very first pages and never let go. Relatable, believable, fantastical, aspirational, and completely addictive.” (Sara Shepard, number one New York Times best-selling author of the Pretty Little Liars and Perfectionists series)

ORDER Audible, Kindle, Paperback or Hardback from Amazon

 

BFF K’s Review of American Royals

I just finished this amazing book, it’s Independence Day and Hamilton released on Disney+. I’ve been thinking about America and how different things could have been.

American Royals is one of the most interesting, inventive and enthralling books that I’ve read in a long time! It mixes multiple POV’s in a story that centers around the premise that America is ruled by a monarchy. It’s fun and fascinating. There are intrigues, scandals, heroes, heroines, and secrets. So many secrets. This is a YA book, so it’s full of butterfly-inducing romance, but it’s all fade to black.

For me, the mark of a really good book is just how obsessed I become with it. And, I’m officially obsessed with American Royals! I immediately went searching for information about the next book in the series. I can’t stop thinking about these characters and this story line! The last chapter of this book is stunning and so vividly written I dreamed about it last night. OBSESSED I tell you!

I listened to the audiobook on Audible and the narration is spot-on in tone and timing! Be prepared to expend a fair amount of mental energy just thinking about this book and these characters. American Royals is your perfect summer read!

Pre-Order Majesty on Amazon

Releases September 1, 2020

 

About the Author

Review – Save the Date by Ann Marie Walker

The Wedding Planner meets The Bachelor in Save the Date, the third standalone laugh-out-loud rom com in the Wild Wedding series.
Save The Date by Ann Marie Walker is now available!
FREE with Kindle Unlimited

The Wedding Planner meets The Bachelor in Save the Date, the third standalone laugh-out-loud rom com in the Wild Wedding series.

Rebecca Halstead has never been a bridesmaid, but she can certainly relate to the expression “always a bridesmaid, never a bride.” As one of Chicago’s top wedding planners, Rebecca has had a front row seat to countless ceremonies, yet her own walk down the aisle has started to feel like nothing more than a little girl’s fantasy. She’s the wallflower who, thanks to a clean bill of health from her oncologist, wants to live life to the fullest. If only she knew how.

Brody Dixon hasn’t heard the word “no” since he was drafted by the NFL. With cover model looks and an arm that’s earned him two Super Bowl MVPs, Brody can have his pick of women. But as the next celebrity bachelor on American Sweetheart, both his agent and publicist want him to clean up his image before the show begins. If only he knew how.

Then fate, and an impulsive wager, bring these two opposites together until an unlikely alliance is formed. For the next two months, Brody will get a crash course in romance. In return, he agrees to help Rebecca break out of her carefully constructed shell. On paper it makes perfect sense. But as they struggle to teach each other, Brody and Rebecca just might discover that falling in love is the most important lesson of all.

 

BFF K’s Review of Save the Date

Save the Date is the best story in the Wild Wedding Series! I have enjoyed each of these books, but this one in particular was absolutely delightful and I’m thrilled to see Ann Marie Walker with a new release!

Brody and Rebecca are sweet and charming. Brody is a bit of a good ‘ol boy who has enjoyed his fame as a star in the NFL. He isn’t interested in settling down until he meets the right woman; and Rebecca is definitely the right woman. She’s independent, thoughtful, hard-working and kind. She’s not had the easiest life, but she doesn’t let that impact her outlook for the future.

The book carries snippets of a number of fun tropes: best friend’s sister, reality dating, fulfilling a bet/dare, helping someone take a walk on the wild side….And, it’s a tad predictable, but it’s really a joy to read. Things have been so stressful and strange lately, but this book was like a breath of fresh air. Once I hit 40% of this book, I couldn’t put it down, like stay-up-until-2:45a-couldn’t-put-it-down! It made me so happy and the ending was just dreamy.

If you’re looking for a fun read with endearing characters and a snappy storyline, save a date for Save The Date!

An advance copy of this book was received from the author. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Start the laugh out loud series today!
All FREE with Kindle Unlimited
https://amzn.to/3bPMgAG

 

About the Author

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Connect with Ann Marie!

Website — http://www.annmariewalker.com/
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnnMarieWalker/
Newsletter — https://bit.ly/3cMlKd2
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/annmarie_walker/
Bookbub — https://bit.ly/2zgcgrJ
Amazon — https://amzn.to/3e4h3vo

 

Review – Stranger Ranger by Daisy Prescott

BFF K Reviews Stranger Ranger by Daisy Prescott

Smartypants Romance Launch #2

 

New park ranger Daphne Baum is a reformed good girl. Breaking free from her overbearing family as soon as she turned eighteen, she’s been on her own ever since. The life of a park ranger, moving from park to park, suits her just fine. Though still a rule follower, she’s okay with a little sin in her life.

Every generation of Hill men has its black sheep. The general consensus among the family is that Odin Hill is the lucky bastard this go around. At seventeen, he blew out of town like an angry tornado only to return fifteen years later withdrawn and secretive. Living like a recluse in the hollows in the Smoky Mountains, he’s happy to keep to himself and is content to let locals believe he’s the town weirdo. Odin prefers the company of his pet pig to the nosy citizens of Green Valley.

When Daphne discovers Odin might be committing nefarious deeds on park land, she vows to find out the truth behind the handsome, yet chaotic, loner. Will the stranger help the ranger discover the difference between being good and doing the right thing? Or will they find themselves on opposites sides of love?

‘Stranger Ranger’ is a full-length contemporary romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the Park Ranger series, Green Valley World, Penny Reid Book Universe.

 

Buy Today or Read on Kindle Unlimited!

 

BFF K’s Review of Stranger Ranger

 

Daisy does it again – Stranger Ranger is a fantastic slow burn that delivers a sweet and satisfying ending! I have a sudden desire to hole up in a log cabin in the Great Smokey Mountains with my love!

Daphne is a terrific heroine with a really interesting back story. She is clever and hard working and you’ll like her more and more as the story goes on! Odin is the Thor of Vegetables and there’s so much more to him than meets the eye. The book is a lot of uncovering the backstories of both the heroine and the hero.

Daisy’s writing just makes me happy and Stranger Ranger was another delight to read! Beware the slow burn, but know it’s critical to setting up the storyline and it makes the ending worth it all. This is the perfect story to take your mind off whatever is happening in the world right now. Just be prepared to have a sudden urge to head to Tennessee!

 

 

 

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

 

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling Author Daisy Prescott writes romantic comedies about real love.

Love with Altitude, Daisy’s new series of standalone Rom Coms, is set in the mountains of Colorado. The Wingmen books star regular guys who often have beards, drive trucks, and love deeply once they fall. Modern Love Stories feature characters in their thirties and forties finding and rediscovering love in unexpected and humorous ways.

Born and raised in San Diego, Daisy currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with her husband, their rescue dog, Mulder, and an imaginary house goat. When not writing about herself in the third person, Daisy can be found traveling, gardening, baking, or lost in a good book.

To learn more about Daisy and her writing, sign up for her mailing list here (copy and paste this link): http://smarturl.it/daisysignup . Send her an email at: daisyauthor AT gmail DOT com Or chat with her on Twitter (@daisy_prescott) and Facebook: /daisyprescottauthorpage, and follow her on Instagram: /daisyprescott

Review – Cherish Her by Andrea Johnston

Title: Cherish Her
Series: Military Men of Lexington
Author: Andrea Johnston
Genre: Contemporary Romance; Small Town Romance; Single Mom Romance; Ex-military Romance

 

My life was perfect . . .

Until fate took it all away.

Heartache and broken bones left me searching for solace in the darkest of places.

It wasn’t pretty, but with the support of my family, I persevered and I’m stronger for it. My daughters deserve nothing less.

Things were finally back on track, until I met Grant Ellison. Tall, dark, and handsome he sets my heart racing. If only the fear of loving again didn’t paralyze me.

*

Nobody was as surprised as me when I left a long military career for a slower pace in life. After all, I’ve never been one to make decisions lightly or without a plan.

A new town means a fresh start. Although it’s a lonely existence, I don’t regret my decision. Especially when a beautiful woman catches my eye.

Dakota Jennings’ strength and ambition are for all to see but her heart is protected by the strongest of walls. My new mission is to show her how precious she is and how great we can be together.

 

**The Military Men of Lexington is a series of interconnected, standalone, small town romances.**

Goodreads

Read for FREE with KindleUnlimited
Amazon US | Amazon Worldwide

 

 

BFF K’s Review of Cherish Her

 

A little suspense, a whole lotta butterflies and one incredible silver fox Hero! Cherish Her is sweet and swoony but still full of surprises. Andrea Johnston writes wonderful small town romance, it is really her sweet spot and Cherish Her is the perfect example of her craft.

I have been waiting years for Dakota to get her Happily Ever After! She was such a significant part of the storyline in Martini’s and Moonlight though she hardly appeared in the book. But, her story was intriguing and I’ve been waiting for her to meet someone who was worthy. And is he ever worthy, Grant Ellison is absolutely fantastic!

There’s a suspenseful storyline that keeps you turning the pages to solve the mystery while you’re waiting for this slow burn to ignite. This is a really enjoyable, quick read that you should definitely add to your TBR!

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

 

 

 

“Do you have one of those pod coffee makers at your house?”

His random question pulls me from my thoughts and I actually do a double take before looking at him quickly before returning my eyes to the road.

“Huh?”

Very articulate, Dakota.

“You didn’t get your cup of coffee. I don’t know about you but if I don’t get my fill each morning, I’m only functioning at half rate. If you don’t have one of those pod things, maybe we should stop in town for a cup to go.”

Oh my goodness. Someone who gets my caffeine needs. If he tells me he wears glasses while he reads in bed I might combust. What is wrong with me? I’ve never been so scattered in my thoughts when it comes to a man. Even Jeff, bless him, never brought out this awkwardness and unbridled attraction. Of course, I never went without when Jeff was alive. It’s been years since I’ve been with a man. And, while the thought of dating has only recently come to the forefront of my mind, thanks to the man to my right, I’m a little overwhelmed.

“Oh . . uh . . . umm . . . yeah, I do. Sorry. I guess I’m a little off kilter now that I smell like I bathed in dark French roast with hazelnut creamer.”

“A dark roast kind of gal, huh? I was thinking of you as more of a flavored brew.”

“No way. I like my coffee to serve its purpose. Bold is the only way to go.”

Feeling his eyes on me, I glance his way. Slowly, he smiles before turning his attention back out his window.

“This is a nice neighborhood,” he comments as I approach a stop sign and signal to turn left.

“It’s been perfect for us. The houses are small, and while the lots are on the smaller side, it’s made maintenance easier.”

“Low maintenance is good.”

Turning into my driveway, I click the button to engage the garage door before cutting the engine. Opening the door, I look to Grant who is now on his phone.

“You weren’t serious about staying out here were you?” I’m sure he was but that’s silly.

“Of course. You shouldn’t invite strangers into your home, Dakota.”

“You’re hardly a stranger, Grant. Come on in and make yourself at home. Fair warning, two little girls live here. It’s likely there’s some sort of doll or glittery fairy lying around.”

Laughing, he exits the car and follows me into the house. “Help yourself to something to drink. I’m going to clean up and change. Be back out shortly.”

Meet the Military Men of Lexington
a series of interconnected, standalone, small town romances

Promise Her
Read for FREE with KindleUnlimited
Amazon US | Amazon Worldwide

Cherish Her
Read for FREE with KindleUnlimited
Amazon US | Amazon Worldwide

Love Her
Pre-Order Today! Releases July 23
Read for FREE with KindleUnlimited
Amazon US | Amazon Worldwide

 

Andrea Johnston spent her childhood with her nose in a book and a pen to paper.

An avid people watcher, her mind is full of stories that yearn to be told.

A fan of angsty romance with a happy ending, super sexy erotica and a good mystery, Andrea can always be found with her Kindle nearby fully charged.

Andrea lives in Idaho with her family and two dogs. When she isn’t spending time with her partner in crime aka her husband, she can be found binge watching all things Bravo and enjoying a cocktail. Nothing makes her happier than the laughter of her children, a good book, her feet in the water, and cocktail in hand all at the same time.

Facebook | Website | Instagram | Twitter | Amazon

Sassy Romantics | Nerd Herd | Romance Fix | KU for YOU

 

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Review – The Treble With Men by Piper Sheldon

BTbanner

The Treble With Men, an all-new secret identity romantic standalone from Piper Sheldon, is now available in Kindle Unlimited!

SWS02-SHELDON

As far as Green Valley is concerned, Kim Dae disappeared into the Wraiths a decade ago. They were sort of right. Kim has spent her life since Jethro fighting her curious nature and trying to blend into the background. Unfortunately for her, a mysterious Maestro comes to town and takes quick notice of her for reasons unknown to anybody.

The masked conductor, known simply as Devlin, was already a source of much gossip thanks to his reputation for getting fired. Now, his sudden interest in the quiet fourth chair cellist has added fuel to the rumor fire. The new conductor of the symphony needs to learn to control his temper and finish his latest musical masterpiece and only the reluctant star of his symphony can help him do that. If Devlin can’t convince Kim to help to finish his latest composition he’ll lose everything.

Can Devlin and Kim compose without losing composure?

‘The Treble with Men’ is a full-length contemporary romance, can be read as a standalone, and is book #2 in the Scorned Women’s Society series, Green Valley World, Penny Reid Book Universe.

SWS02-LIVE-KU copy

Download your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/38j9pKK

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2u7p4Om

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BFF K’s Review of The Treble with Men

The Beauty and the Beast trope takes a musical, sexy, turn and Piper Sheldon delivers another fantastic story in the Scorned Woman Series.

There’s no doubt that Devlin is more than a little devlish….he’s cranky, intolerant, demanding, intriguing, beautiful and misunderstood! And, Christine/Kim is both drawn to him and a little terrified of him. The push and pull creates a puzzling and captivating storyline that you just can’t stop reading.

The book is full of surprises and grounded in unique settings. You’ll be drawn to the characters and their circumstances. I couldn’t wait to find out which mysteries I solved and which ones still surprised me! The story and characters are so appealing that you’ll race to the end to ensure that there is an HEA! Add this enchanting story to your TBR today!

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

 

 

 

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Excerpt from The Treble with Men

“Let’s play through. I want to hear if you’re qualified,” Devlin said.

“Yes, Maestro.”

Around me, the symphony moved into the ready position. Devlin didn’t pick up his baton.

“You’ll need to move,” he said coolly, as his gaze flicked to the empty first chair.

Amazingly, my legs supported me despite how badly my knees tingled. The neck of my cello was tightly gripped in my fist like it was the only thing keeping me from spinning off the earth.

“We will start from the Andante movement,” he called out as I got situated.

Next to me Barry gave me a brief nod of encouragement. I managed a small smile back. Playing alone at night was a heck of a lot different than feeling an entire symphony watch you. I wiped my palms on my dress pants before straightening my spine.

My nerves were shredded. I did this for a living and yet I couldn’t get my bow to stop wobbling where it hovered just above the strings. My heart sputtered and cranked to a manic tempo. Carla should be here. What if something happened to her? The world began to tune out around me. Tears pricked behind my eyes. How ridiculous was that? I played with these people every day, but if I tried to speak or breathe or move, I’d start to cry.

“Hey.” Devlin’s voice was so soft I hardly noticed it at first. His biker boots appeared in front of my blurring vision. “Christine?”

I lifted my chin to find him standing in front of me with a furrowed brow. “Is she okay?” The question just slipped out, but I needed to know.

He dropped into a crouch to better hear me, causing me to pick up soft hints of cologne, fabric softener, and motorcycle exhaust. “What?”

I asked again a little louder but likely only Barry would be able to hear, if that.

His face was impassive like he was processing what I said. “Who? Carla?”

I nodded stiffly.

“Family emergency. She’ll be back on Monday,” he spoke softly.

“Oh.” A weight lifted from my shoulders.

My chest rose as I took a deep breath in. I released it slowly. Surely the entire room was waiting to see what my deal was.

“I appreciate you stepping in for her.” He lifted his chin to get me to look into his eyes. “I’m sure she would appreciate it too.”

I doubted that, but at least I wasn’t taking the performance from her. I was helping the orchestra out. I could absolutely do this. My thoughts had me worrying my bottom lip.

His focus lowered to my lips then quickly to where my hand gripped the shoulder of my cello. He cleared his throat. “Are you ready?”

I swallowed down my irrational fears. Carla was fine. It was just one show. I could do this. I got into position in answer to his question. Those dark eyes flitted around my face as though checking to see if I really was ready.

“All you need to do is watch me.” When he spoke his mask hardly moved; nobody would know he’d spoken at all. My gaze was locked on his as it smoldered with intensity. “It’s you and me.”

As though I could look anywhere else. When he gave me his focus, the rest of the room faded away. The rest of the world.

“Ready?” he asked.

I forced my shoulders down. He got back onto the podium and I lifted my bow to wait for my solo entrance as he counted the rest of the orchestra in. The notes on the page transformed into a foreign language. The music quieted, signifying my entrance. I drew my bow along the string, but my tense arm caused a noticeable wobble. A wave of heat burned up my neck, a flush likely giving me away. Just when I thought I might lose total control, I remembered his directions. I looked to him.

His arm conducted the rest of the orchestra smoothly as they played their soft accompaniment, but his head was turned to me. He was willing me to look at him. His eyes narrowed when mine finally met his. He nodded his chin subtly. I didn’t need to read the music. I knew this solo in my sleep. Instead, I kept my focus on him. I played. Everything else blurred into the background. The music came then. It flowed through me.

It was just us and the beautiful music.

About The Author

Piper Sheldon writes Contemporary Romance and Magical Realism books that hope to be New York Times bestsellers when they grow up. For now, she works as a technical writer during the day and writes about love the rest of the time. Of course she also makes room for her husband, toddler, and two needy dogs at home in the Desert Southwest.

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