The Reluctant Royal by Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

The Reluctant Royal
Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead

General Release Date: 26th January 2021

Word Count: 93,492
Book Length: SUPER NOVEL
Pages: 352
Genres: CONTEMPORARY, GAY, GLBTQI, ROYALS, THRILLERS AND SUSPENSE

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Book Description

As an unseen enemy draws near, a royal bodyguard must choose between duty and love.

Risking his life to save a princess is all in a day’s work for Sergeant Joe Wenlock, a Close Protection Officer detailed to protect the royal family. After months of recovery following his brush with death, Joe’s ready to return to duties. But Alejandro Fuente-Sastre, as infuriating as he is fabulous, is the last royal Joe wants to be assigned to.

Alejandro isn’t quite the sort of queen that the British royal family is used to, but when Joe learns that Her Majesty’s step-grandson is also drag bombshell Paloma Picante, it makes his job a whole lot tougher. But is there more to Alejo than sulking and sequins?

When Alejandro’s life is threatened by an unseen tormentor who progresses from internet trolling to arson and violence, Joe must keep his charge safe from harm.

Living in close quarters with the man he shouldn’t be falling for, Joe begins to discover his true self. But as Alejandro’s enemy prowls ever nearer, Joe must make the impossible choice between duty and love.

Reader advisory: This book contains instances of homophobia and homophobic language, cyberbullying and threats, harassment, terrorism, drug use and abuse, Islamophobia and suicide. There are mentions of domestic abuse, including physical, emotional and gaslighting.

Excerpt

Joe took another sip of tonic water. He wished it contained gin, because being the only sober person at the table was hardly his idea of fun, but as he watched the bottle of champagne being passed around, he knew he didn’t really want any alcohol anyway. He couldn’t go back to work the worse for wear. Not after months of sick leave. Best foot forward, as his dad would say.

And it wasn’t only his decision not to drink that made Joe an oddity at the table. These were all Wendy’s friends, out for her birthday. Solicitors, legal types, who’d spent most of the evening already talking shop. Joe looked on, his mind on other things. Would he cope on his first day back? Would they trust him to ever do a good job again?

“So, Joe, we’re taking bets on who you’re going to be coddling next week!” Wendy put her second bottle of Prosecco on the table and settled into her seat. Her leg brushed Joe’s momentarily and she shifted, putting air between them again. “Izzy thinks one of the Fergie duo. Barnaby’s bet his bonus on Wills and Kate. I think it’s going to be the queen. The top job for a top bobby!”

“I don’t know yet.” Joe shrugged. “Maybe one of the corgis?”

“I bet you do know, and you’re teasing us!” Wendy’s friend Jemima brayed. “Have you signed the Official Secrets Act?”

Joe turned the plastic stirrer through his fizzing drink, rattling the ice cubes against the glass. He didn’t pester Wendy’s friends about confidential matters, so why did they think he was fair game? “As you know, if I had, I wouldn’t be allowed to say.”

“Whoever it is,” Wendy told them, “let’s hope they don’t put my poor old hubby in hospital again! He’s getting too old to play the action hero!”

Wendy’s friends laughed, and Joe tried to look happy, but he really didn’t want to be reminded of the accident. The headlamps coming straight for him in the evening darkness—and after he’d pushed the Duchess of Albany out of the way, there had been no time for Joe to leap aside. Just that crushing pain as the car slammed into him. Joe had slumped over the bonnet and found himself eye to eye with the idiot who’d just tried to deliberately run down the duchess.

“He’s not that old!” Verity giggled. She patted Joe’s leg and he tried not to flinch. “And still in fine form, too, Wendy, you lucky thing!”

“Lucky old me!” Wendy’s smile looked like a grimace. How would she know what form her husband was in when it had been over six months since they’d so much as kissed, let alone more? She refilled her glass and whispered to Joe, “For God’s sake, have a real drink.”

“Come on, you know I can’t,” Joe replied. “I can’t risk it. First day back and all that.”

“It’s my birthday.” Her pink lips grew thin and she drew in a deep, sharp breath, as sharp as her fresh blonde bob. Then she put her lips to his ear and hissed, “Stop showing me up, Joe, have a drink.”

“I’m drinking a stunt gin and tonic. That’s enough.” Joe held up the glass. It had the brand name of a well-known gin printed down its side. “They do tests, you know. I want to be nice and clean when they poke through my bodily fluids, thank you very much.”

“Barnaby!” Wendy subtly turned away from her husband, the centre of attention all over again. He was dismissed, just as he had been so many times over the five years of their miserable married life. “So, we’re all dying to know how your Tokyo merger’s going. It’s all everyone’s talking about. Tell us all the latest from the front line of big money!”

Joe sat his glass down on the table. The last thing he cared about was Barnaby and his bloody merger, which he’d heard snippets of for weeks as Wendy had made business calls at home. Barnaby this, Barnaby that, ‘Barnaby’s going places.’

So am I.

Joe nudged his seat back and stood to leave. Verity glanced at him, as if she was surprised he was going, but her attention turned to Wendy and Barnaby. Joe wasn’t sure where he’d go, but he needed fresh air. He wanted to be away from loud drinkers, away from Wendy’s carping. His head was pounding and as he stepped outside the pub, a car drove by close to the kerb. He instinctively jumped back, pressing himself against the wall behind him.

Calm down, Sergeant Wenlock, he told himself.

The night was cold, as cold as the pub had been hot, and Joe took a deep breath of autumn air. London tonight seemed even more surreal than ever, the streets a curious mix of the same well-dressed professionals who filled Wendy’s group and those who had embraced Halloween, escaping the real world in the form of cats and devils, vampires and aliens, some already stumbling, others only just starting out. And there in the middle of them was Joe, who would rather be anywhere else but there.

Maybe Joe should’ve thrown aside his tweed jacket and sensible open-necked shirt for a costume. He’d have made quite a good Frankenstein’s monster, maybe, though that said, when he’d first been taken to hospital and had plaster casts and bandages in places he hadn’t thought possible, he’d have been a brilliant cursed mummy.

Joe decided to go for a wander. Once he was working again, he’d have little time to call his own. He’d take his freedom when and where he could. Music blared from pubs and bars, people laughed, taxis pulled up and disgorged their passengers. And up ahead, someone was shouting.

Bloody people, can’t hold their drinks.

“Don’t you ever, ever bloody do that again! Do you hear?”

It was a man’s voice up ahead. Joe could see two figures, one in a black suit with a skeleton painted on it in white. He was wagging his finger—jabbing it—at the red-headed woman walking beside him in heels so high Joe wondered how she didn’t fall flat on her face.

“It’s so important to me, so fucking important, and all you have to do is just nod, and instead, you’re pissing about, making a fucking joke of yourself!”

“I’m sorry!” Her voice sounded almost desperate and she recoiled from her companion’s stabbing finger, jerking away as though it were the blade of a knife. She hurried after the skeleton when he stalked onwards, scooping up the silken hem of her shimmering red evening gown to follow. “Don’t be angry, I’m sorry!”

“I’m sorry!” he mimicked. Joe could almost see him in profile. The man’s face was disguised by makeup that turned his face into a skull.

Seemed a bit rich for him to be accusing someone of making a joke of themselves.

“The man’s an investor in my film, and I wanted him to know that I’m serious about my art, and then you’re there hanging over my shoulder, interrupting and gobbing on about God knows what!” The man clenched his hands. Even they were tricked out in skeleton makeup. “Why do you wind me up like this? You do it on purpose, for fuck’s sake, then it’s all I’m sorry! Well, you bloody well will be!”

“He was laughing too,” the woman said, a fresh note of desperation in her sing-song voice. No, not desperation. Fear. “He was having a good time, you’re not thinking straight! Just—please, don’t be like this!”

“My thinking’s perfectly clear!” The man gave a long sniff then, and Joe knew exactly what was going on.

The drugs are talking.

The man stopped where he was and raised his hand at the woman. The way she flinched back told Joe that this wasn’t the first time it had happened. As she drew away, he saw her makeup clearly, a glamourous sugar skull in a rainbow of colours that nearly took his breath away.

“Please don’t,” was all she said.

Joe increased his pace. The man’s raised hand trembled but in a split second he slapped the woman across her painted face.

Joe ran.

He was on the couple in only a few steps, and interposed himself between them. He didn’t look back at the woman, but could hear her frightened breathing just behind him. “That’s enough. Time for you to go.”

“And who the fuck are you, James Bond?” the man sneered.

“I’m not going to stand around and watch a bully like you slap a woman.” Joe clenched his fists, resisting the temptation to give Skeletor a taste of his own medicine.

“A woman? That’s a fucking joke. She’s a drag queen—a bloke!”

Joe turned to look at the woman.

A bloke?

Was she?

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About the Authors

Eleanor Harkstead

Eleanor Harkstead likes to dash about in nineteenth-century costume, in bonnet or cravat as the mood takes her. She can occasionally be found wandering old graveyards. Eleanor is very fond of chocolate, wine, tweed waistcoats and nice pens. Her large collection of vintage hats would rival Hedda Hopper’s.

Originally from the south-east of England, Eleanor now lives somewhere in the Midlands with a large ginger cat who resembles a Viking.

You can follow Eleanor on Facebook and Twitter

Catherine Curzon

Catherine Curzon is a royal historian who writes on all matters of 18th century. Her work has been featured on many platforms and Catherine has also spoken at various venues including the Royal Pavilion, Brighton, and Dr Johnson’s House.

Catherine holds a Master’s degree in Film and when not dodging the furies of the guillotine, writes fiction set deep in the underbelly of Georgian London.

She lives in Yorkshire atop a ludicrously steep hill.

You can follow Catherine on Facebook and Twitter and take a look at her Website.

Giveaway

Enter to win a FREE Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead romance book!

Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead Giveaway

ENTER HERE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FREE CATHERINE CURZON & ELEANOR HARKSTEAD ROMANCE BOOK!

Notice: This competition ends on 2nd February 2021 at 5pm GMT. Competition hosted by Totally Entwined Group.

Shattering Foundations by Shea Balik

Title: Shattering Foundations

Series: Hart Medical Center 07

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (166pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (September 13, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Doss Callaway had never dreamed he’d have a family since he was basically infertile. After all,
what Alpha would want an Omega who couldn’t father a child? It was why he’d become an
obstetrician, to help other Omegas find a way to have the life he would never have.

Landon Odell had been forced to put his carefree life on hold when his parents had died and
he’d become the guardian to his three-year-old baby brother. Now that his brother was grown,
Landon hoped to never have that kind of responsibility again.

Fate had other plans for these two. The only problem – so does the Hart’s Medical Center
stalker and accomplice. Will Doss and Landon be able to find a future together, or will one of
them die when the stalker kills for the first time?

Warning: Rape is involved in this story, although the actual act is off screen. Although each couple in this series gets their own HEA, you should read the entire series for the ongoing story arc!

ISBN: B08HZG44DP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Dr. Doss Calloways has a busy life. He loves his job of delivering babies and helping omegas. When he’s called to the emergency room to treat a raped omega he jumps to conclusions when the omega’s, Braccen, brother barges in demanding answers. Alpha Landon has been raising Braccen sine their parents deaths when Braccen was only three.

Braccen was promised to an alpha name Yurick who took matters into his own hands after being refused Braccen’s hand by Landon. This is where Doss and Landon meet and Landon learns of the stalkers. In an attempt to keep Braccen safe they move in with Doss.

The stalkers begin rearing their heads and finally we find out at least who one of the stalkers is.

Intense and scary good. I liked that the story was not as focused on the couple in this one. There were a lot of moving parts that brought this story to life.

Fantastic read.

Barreling Through Road blocks by Shea Balik

Title: Barreling Through Road Blocks

Series: Hart Medical Center 08

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (101pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 10, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: The moment Soren Larsen first saw Cillian he knew they were meant to be together. Convincing Cillian would be tough, but Soren was willing to put in the work to woo him. That was assuming the stalker didn’t kill Cillian first.

Cillian Driscoll had never thought too much about love. His career working in the emergency room as a physician’s assistant was too important to him to worry about the future. Then he got his first threat from the hospital’s stalker. He might have thought he was too independent to need an Alpha, but being in Soren’s arms was the only place he felt safe.

The stalker’s plan to kill the Omegas of Hart’s Medical Center is cunning. No one is safe. But the stalker’s victims and their husbands refuse to give up hope.

Can love really conquer all? Soren and Cillian will test that theory as they try to stop the stalker before it’s too late.

Author’s Note: This is the last book in the Hart Medical Center Series.

ISBN: B08N7ZRDRR

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: The stalker steps up their plans in this suspense filled story with mutiple attacks and some deaths. Cillian is on the stalkers radar and the chief of police Soren takes it upon himself to keep the man safe. But with the stalker still out there and unknown is anyone safe?

Oh my god this story was amazing. I was wrong in my guesses about who the stalker was. But I’m glad they finally found out who it was. My mind was blown by how many people helped this person in their revenge plans. I was disgusted with all who were involved with them.

Cillian and Soren were a delight to read about. I was intrigued by Soren’s family background as well as his fierce determination to keep Cillian safe. I’m really sad to see the series end as it was so good following the investigation and the clues.

I highly recommend the entire series.

Clashing With a Titan by Shea Balik

Title: Clashing With a Titan

Series: Hart Medical Center 06

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (86pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (July 4, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Dr. Oliver Pierce always thought Omegas weren’t worth his time. He’d even fought hospital management to keep Omegas from working there. But what if he was wrong? It was something he’d never imagined possible. That was, until he met Anson.

Anson Shaw had barely managed to get free from his ex-husband alive. After months of therapy he’d decided it wasn’t worth being under the thumb of an Alpha. But then he met Oliver. Everyone told Anson to stay away from him, yet despite their warnings he found himself being drawn to the Alpha.

Can an Alpha really change? Is it possible for an Omega to stand up to an Alpha and demand respect? When the Hart’s Medical Center stalker comes after Anson, both men search their hearts to find if love is worth the risk.

Warning: Triggers possible for shooting as well as gruesome notes left for the stalker’s victims..

ISBN: B08CD6VHXZ

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I admit I could not stand Oliver throughout the series for the way he felt about omegas. But once he met Anson everything changed for him. The stalker is scary crazy as he or she attacked Anson. I loved how everyone rallied around Anson and helped. Oliver telling Kelby off in a way had me shouting for joy as I can not stand her.

Oliver comes a long way from his thinking omegas are beneath him. But the two highlight for me were when Anson marches into the chief of police’s office to inform him of what he thought about his lead of detectives ignoring a stalker, which helped the chief realize the bigotry going on under his nose. The second was the hilarious incident when Anson was on bedrest and farting scene.

Delightful addition to the series. Fantastic read.

Tiptoeing Through a Minefield by Shea Balik

Title: Tiptoeing Through a Minefield

Series: Hart Medical Center 05

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (155pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (May 26, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Ronan Hart had done everything he could think of to save his family’s hospital, but he knew he was failing. Desperate, he went out on a limb and hired an Omega who everyone claimed was unconventional to help him. Little did he know that ‘unconventional’ meant insane, or that he’d willingly fall down the man’s rabbit hole to be with him.

Shale Baker did things his own way. He believed that everyone should be treated equally, even Omegas like him. If it required kicking down doors, blowing things up, or something completely out of the box, like Tiptoeing Through a Minefield. He was prepared to take on the world to make it a just place, but he hadn’t ever imagined what would happen to all his careful planning when he fell in love.

These two obstinate men must find a way to compromise before it’s too late. It isn’t just a happily ever after they are fighting for, but their very lives.

Warning: Hijinx and mayhem abound as Shale comes up with one crazy plan after another to catch a stalker. There are no limits when it comes to Shale’s imagination, or the stalker’s determination to make him pay.

PLEASE NOTE: Although each couple gets their very own HEA, this series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment!.

ISBN: B0899J8M5B

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Ronan and Shale have been dancing around each other since Shale was first hired at Hart medical Center. Shale has done his best to improve the hospital’s atmosphere as well as those employed. But things are not easy. I loved this story. Shale was fierce in his determination to find out who the stalker is. but at the same time he should have been careful.

I really enjoy this series and waiting for the clues to the final reveal as to who the stalker is. I have my suspicions as to who it is but only time will tell if I’m right or not. Amazing story with romance, danger, suspense, mystery and love.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Head on Collision by Shea Balik

Title: Head on Collision

Series: Hart Medical Center 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (157pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (April 25, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: In an Alpha dominated world, Oslo Hall had to fight for his right to make a living for himself. It wasn’t always easy, but since he’d grown up with parents who had to work multiple jobs to put food on the table, he was used to working hard. But that left little time for things like love. Oh, he’d tried. He’d even gotten married, but it wasn’t until the divorce that he realized, he’d never been in love with his husband. Too bad he hadn’t discovered that until after he’d gotten pregnant.

Bradford Radcliff had spent his entire career fighting for the rights of Omegas in family court. He was proud of the work he’s done. But it wasn’t until he met Oslo Hall, who might lose his unborn child if the Alpha father decided to demand custody, that Bradford realized just how important it was to win. The thought of Oslo having to give up his own child was more than Bradford could bear, especially since somewhere along the way he’d fallen in love with both Oslo and his unborn child.

If only that were all that was against them, they might stand a chance. But the Hart’s Medical Center stalker has targeted Oslo and the threats had them both terrified, especially when Shale decides he’s going to try and catch the stalker using Oslo as bait.

Warning: Graphic threats made by a stalker.

PLEASE NOTE: Although each book focuses on a different couple, and they all have HEAs, this series is better enjoyed when read in order! Join us in trying to figure out who the stalker is!.

ISBN: B087PN9DKP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Bradford finally meets the one for him in Oslo Hall. I loved these two together. Oslo is now on the stalkers radar and Bradford wants to help keep the man safe. I loved how Bradford does not think twice about stepping in Oslo’s defense or protection.

Amazing addition to the series that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Danger, bigoted stalker/s, romance, suspense and romance are all in abundance in this story.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Stumbling into Obstacles by Shea Balik

Title: Stumbling into Obstacles

Series: Hart Medical Center 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (156pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (March 13, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Case Weber has been riddled with guilt for his whole adult existence. One act changed the course of his life, causing him to believe he didn’t deserve to find his happily ever after.

Alaric Sutton had always been a bit of an ass. He’d never considered it a problem until things at Hart Medical Center started to change. But it wasn’t until Case Weber yelled at him that Alaric realized it wasn’t okay for him to treat others with disrespect. His only problem? How did he change after all this time?

Deciding to ask for help, Alaric went to the one person who had stood up to him, Case Weber. Who would have thought that one request could transform his lonely existence into one with hope and a possible life with an Omega he respected?

But life has never been that simple. As the Hart Medical Center’s stalker goes after Case, can Alaric save him from the not so veiled threats? Will it even matter if he does if Case can’t forgive himself for his past?

Warning: Triggers of abuse and abortion are contained in this story. As well as a group of friends who will do whatever it takes to find this elusive stalker that has been plaguing the Omegas of Hart Medical Center.

ISBN: B085WM8FKX

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: When Case is targeted by the stalker, Dr Alaric Sutton takes it upon himself to keep Case safe. Case has been through trying times both in his past and present so he is stunned when Alaric asks for his help in changing the way he speaks to people.

I loved this addition but I have a feeling I know who the stalker is. I just wish there was more clues. I loved Alaric and Case together. Alaric was always there whether Case needed him or not.

Fantastic addition to the series.

Hurdling Fences by Shea Balik

Title: Hurdling Fences

Series: Hart Medical Center 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (157pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (February 7, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: As an Omega and a single father, Tenzin Patel knew his chances of finding love were slim to none. It didn’t help that the last Alpha he was married to took off and left him without a word. In their world, that meant a life of being alone. Not that it mattered, Tenzin wasn’t sure he’d ever be able to trust another Alpha not to screw him over.

There wasn’t much Dr. Emmett Gates hadn’t accomplished. As one of the country’s leading pediatric orthopedic surgeons, he was the epitome of success. If only he could find that one Omega in order to have the family he desperately wanted. That was proving harder to do than he imagined, especially when he compared all Omegas to the one he couldn’t have, Tenzin Patel, who not only was married but had kids. No way would he ever try to break apart a family, which left him alone.

When tragedy strikes and the two are thrown together, Emmett was thrilled to find out Tenzin was divorced. The only problem was the obstacles Tenzin had put in place to block him. Good thing Emmett was good at Hurdling Fences to get what he wanted.

ISBN: B084LQJJWF

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Tenzen has a secret that if found out could spell disaster. Dr. Gates has been attracted to Tenzen since first laying eyes on the man. Secrets are revealed when after Tenzen’s daughter is hurt that she is not his and his husband left.

I loved this story. The stalker has turned his/her sights on Tenzen and along with that the threat of his daughter being taken away. I loved how Emmett steps in to help Tenzen and the two grow closer.

It was an awesome read but I admit to wanting to know more about the stalker’s identity as I have my suspicions about who they might be.

Fantastic read.

Christmas List by Shea Balik

Title: Christmas List

Series: Believe 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 18, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Winter was Gabriel Wells’ favorite time of year. Having been born in Colorado, snow was in his veins. When his life turned upside down and he ended up in Florida for the winter, Gabriel didn’t handle it well. Who was he kidding? He fucked up royally.

Timmy Shaw had always believed people deserved a second chance to make a first impression. As an occupational therapist, he didn’t always meet people when they were at their best. But after a month, he was sure Gabriel had to have ice in his veins considering how he treated others, especially the man’s own mother.

What neither man realized? There’s a thin line between love and hate. Any other time, they may not have had a chance, but it’s Christmas and miracles are happening everywhere. It may take some work, but if they can find common ground, they may have a chance at happily ever after with the help of a special Christmas List.

ISBN: B08R27DHQ9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Gabriel is stuck in Florida caring for his mother after she has a stroke. He’s not happy and it shows. His mom’s physical therapist helps Dottie to try to be independent again and takes Gabriel to task for the things he says about his mother.

Things change when Timothy’s mom suggests that Gabriel is scared of losing his mother and acting out so they devise a plan to get him to relax by coming up with things to do that are similar to what he did in Colorado.

I loved this story so much. As someone who had something similar to a stroke years ago I could relate to what Dottie was going through. Gabriel for his part began to realize the way he treated his mother and Timothy. The things they did together were funny and sweet and with time Gabriel changed for the better.

Fantastic read.

Christmas Gift by Shea Balik

Title: Christmas Gift

Series: Believe 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (150pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 15, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: It’s Christmas and time for those who celebrate to spend hours finding the perfect gifts for those they love. Which also means long lines, angry and rude shoppers who are willing to fight so they can buy their own gifts at fifty percent off, and dealing with overworked and irritated store employees who are out of patience and good cheer. Right?

Except this year, Patrick and Cabot have discovered that the best gift of all doesn’t require any shopping, lines, or rude people. Just the willingness to open one’s heart. For they are not only giving the greatest gift of all, they’re receiving it, too. A family.

Join them on this journey as they discover what the true meaning of giving is. It will take believing in the magic of Christmas, but in return they just might receive the most amazing Christmas Gift ever – a happily ever after. .

ISBN: B082T2ZRV9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A sweet story about two men, Patrick and Cabot, who find each other are exactly what the other needs. Patrick is looking to adopt the two children, Maya and Liam, he is taking care of. Cabot is looking for someone to love.

The family find joy in everything they do together and it shows. I loved how in tune Cabot was to the kids and Patrick. Patrick for his part was adorable when flustered.

Fantastic read.

Demon’s Wish by Xenia Melzer Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Demon’s Wish

by

Xenia Melzer

Book 1 in the Demon Mates series

General Release Date: 5th January 2021

Format: EBOOK
ISBN: 978-1-83943-091-6
Word Count: 53,035
Language: English
Book Length: NOVEL
Pages: 201

Genres:

ANGELS AND DEMONS
COMEDY AND HUMOUR
CONTEMPORARY
EROTIC ROMANCE
GAY
GLBTQI
PARANORMAL

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Book Description

Finding love is hard—especially when you’re a demon and your potential mate is your sacrifice…

Sammy is content with running his bookshop and leading a book club consisting solely of paranormal creatures. Despite the persistence of his friends, he has resolved himself to a life without romance, since he doesn’t think anybody could find him and his tendency to spill useless knowledge whenever he gets nervous attractive.

Dresalantion is a demon prince and slightly—make that majorly—annoyed when somebody persistently tries to summon him. He finally decides to show up and put the fear of Dresalantion into his summoners but finds himself rescuing their sacrifice instead.

Sammy intrigues him from the get-go, and when Dre realizes that Sammy can get him the manga he’s been hunting for months—not to mention that he refuses a wish he offered him—the sexy demon decides to get to know this fascinating man better. Much better.

Reader advisory: This book contanis scenes of kidnapping and an attempted human sacrifice.

Excerpt

“Is everybody set?”

Sammy looked around the group of people gathered in his bookstore. It was Wednesday, which meant there would be a book club meeting after closing hours. Their little group met at least twice every month to discuss books and interesting topics related to books, and Sammy loved it. It had formed half a year after he had opened his shop, Sammy’s Book Corner, and the participants had become something like a family to him, which he desperately needed after his parents had died five years before. He gazed around to make sure everybody had their stash of cookies—this time provided by Mavis and Maribell, the two witches—along with their favorite drink.

The delicious smell of freshly baked cookies mixed with the aroma of two hazelnut toffee lattes, the sharper tang of two Chai teas—heavy on the cinnamon—and his own hot chocolate before the familiar background scent of books, both old and new, made him once again congratulate himself on buying the fancy coffeemaker and establishing the little lounging area across from his cash counter. The members of their book club were seated on the four old couches around two low tables, getting comfortable.

Sammy was especially proud of this setup, since he had found all the furniture at flea markets and had given them each a do-over. The whiskey-colored leather couch hadn’t been much work. Just cleaning and treating the leather with a special balm had made the piece shine again. It now smelled faintly of beeswax, something that made Sammy crave a peppermint tea with honey every time he sat on it. The two chaises had required more effort. He had upholstered them and given them each a new cloth as well. Now customers could sit down on the colors of the rainbow to read their latest purchase. The last item was a lounger whose frame he had painted in pink then sprinkled with golden glitter for good measure. A turquoise throw made the piece stand out. One of the tables was covered in dots of various sizes and colors, and the other one had wall tattoos of Drogon and Smaug looking at each other on a black background.

Sammy was the first to admit that his artistic talent was closer to what a six-year old could produce than the fine artistry people with a real gift made, but he had done a good job with the furniture and his shop. Perhaps it was because he loved his little haven of books so much that it brought out the best in him. Except for the laptop in his office and the coffeemaker, nothing in the shop was new. Most everything had come from flea markets and garage sales, making for an interesting and charming mix of styles. Sammy had dedicated quite some time matching his books with the furniture. His antiques were stacked in open wardrobes that matched their age—or came close to it. The fantasy and science fiction books lived on shelves from IKEA, which he had sprayed silver. The romance books had found their home in old wooden wine crates that were clustered around the shop in small stacks of six to ten. Comics and manga were stashed in big boxes he had built from panoplies and painted in different hues of blue. The shop was Sammy’s idea of home, a feeling that seemed to convey itself, because most of his customers were regulars and loved hanging out in the place.

Sammy looked at his fellow book club members and adopted family and felt a brief shudder when he remembered their last meeting, where Amber the banshee had insisted on providing the baked goods. She might be four hundred years old, but just like every other banshee in the world, her baking skills were those of a blind man who had to find his way in a kitchen with both arms tied behind his back. Nonexistent. According to Emilia, the vampire in their group, this had something to do with their magic, which allowed them to pinpoint the exact time of death for every person. Apparently, the mixture of being able to look into the future without upsetting the balance of time and still warning people of their impending end didn’t go well with any kind of cooking. As to why exactly that was, Emilia couldn’t—or wouldn’t—tell. As the only human in a group of paranormals, Sammy had gotten used to not knowing everything. There was too much going on and he had learned soon after stepping into this world that ignorance truly was bliss in many cases where paranormals were involved. He would have preferred to know about Amber’s anti-talent in the kitchen, though, before he’d accepted her offer to bring snacks.

Per group vote, Amber had been banned from ever bringing sweets to the meetings again, even though Jon, the zombie living in the cellar under the bookshop, had later confessed to Sammy that the stone-hard lumps weren’t that bad, once one managed to get through the crust—the burnt, black crust that may or may not once have been sugar. Sammy swallowed hard. Just remembering the taste made his stomach revolt. And he hadn’t even been able to get to the core of the—he tried to find a fitting word for the deadly pieces of ballistic bakery and finally settled for ‘pastries’. Declan and Troy, the two werewolf alphas, as well as Emilia, had sharper teeth and more strength in their jaws, yet the looks on their faces when the crust gave way had been disturbing, to put it mildly.

“I don’t see what’s so different about these,” Amber declared with a pout while holding up a perfectly shaped chocolate chip cookie. Her pixie cut with the neon green hair went well with the huge, sapphire-green earrings, the thick golden chain with various amulets dangling from her neck, the five leather bracelets with Celtic runes etched into them and the approximately twelve rings she was wearing on her fingers. Compared to her jewelry, her outfit was plain—black skinny jeans, black sneakers and a black shirt with a sparkling unicorn on it, declaring Eat My Stardust, Suckers.

“The difference, my dear Amber, is that these cookies can be eaten without costing you a tooth. I’m so sorry to break this to you, but your baking skills are what I imagine Terry Pratchett had in mind when he created dwarf bread.”

Declan put one of the cookies in his mouth, munched on it with an expression of pure bliss on his ridiculously handsome face and gulped it down. He and Troy, who wasn’t there on that day due to business, looked like everybody’s wet dream. They were tall and had angular faces with chiseled jaws and sharp cheekbones, broad shoulders, slim hips, long, muscular legs and hair so thick and healthy that Sammy knew women would murder for it. Apparently, the good looks were part of the genetic makeup of shifters, but Sammy still found it almost offensive how perfect Declan and Troy were. Like two sides of a coin, one dark and dangerous, the other blond and…well, dangerous, they were a constant temptation for women and men alike. When they’d first joined the book club, Sammy had had some disturbingly hot dreams about threesomes with them and it had taken him almost four months until he had been able to put them firmly in the ‘friend zone’. It had helped—once they’d felt comfortable enough to relax during the meetings—to see their true selves. Because, no matter how perfect their looks were, the two werewolves were almost annoyingly arrogant and overconfident, as was typical for alphas—or so Sammy had been told by Jon. Their saving grace was a great sense of humor and their unusual choice of favorite book—Pride and Prejudice. After they had confessed this, nobody in their little circle was able to take them too seriously anymore, because how could somebody who loved the perfect book be a bad person? The posturing was just that—a façade to frighten potential enemies away—and the paranormal world was full of those.

“Dwarf bread?” Amber lifted one of her meticulously plucked eyebrows, a hint of steel in her voice.

“Don’t take it to heart, dear. If you want, you can come over and maybe we can teach you how to get them right.”

Maribell smiled at Amber and patted her hand. The witch looked like a nice, elderly lady with her flower-print dress, the square handbag and the perfectly coiffed bun at the back of her head. Her thick black hair was infused with gray strands, and around her almond-shaped eyes—a heritage from her Asian father—laugh lines softened her features. Sammy knew better, though. Maribell reminded him of his first-grade teacher, Mrs. Smithson, who had been able to shut unruly pupils up with one stern look. Those who inspired her displeasure quickly learned that there was nothing worse than the wrath of a teacher provoked…except for the wrath of witches. And with Mavis and Maribell, the first lesson was also the last.

Buy Links

Choose Your Store | First For Romance | Pride Publishing

About the Author

Xenia Melzer

Xenia Melzer was born and raised in a small village in the South of Bavaria. As one of nature’s true chocoholics, she’s always in search of the perfect chocolate experience. So far, she’s had about a dozen truly remarkable ones. Despite having been in close proximity to the mountains all her life, she has never understood why so many people think snow sports are fun. There are neither chocolate nor horses involved and it’s cold by definition, so where’s the sense? She does not like beer either and has never been to the Oktoberfest – no quality chocolate there.

Even though her mind is preoccupied with various stories most of the time, Xenia has managed to get through school and university with surprisingly good grades. Right after school she met her one true love who showed her that reality is capable of producing some truly amazing love stories itself.

While she was having her two children, she started writing down the most persistent stories in her head as a way of relieving mommy-related stress symptoms. As it turned out, the stress-relief has now become a source of the same, albeit a positive one.

When she’s not writing, she translates the stories of other authors into German, enjoys riding and running, spending time with her kids, and dancing with her husband. If you want to contact her, please visit either her website, or write her an email.

Giveaway

Enter to win signed/personalized copies of books 1 & 2 in the Club Whisper series and a $5.00 First For Romance Gift Code!

Xenia Melzer’s Demon’s Wish Giveaway

XENIA MELZER IS GIVING AWAY THIS FABULOUS PRIZE TO ONE LUCKY WINNER. ENTER HERE FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN SIGNED/PERSONALIZED COPIES OF BOOKS 1 & 2 IN THE CLUB WHISPER SERIES AND A $5.00 FIRST FOR ROMANCE GIFT CODE!

Notice: This competition ends on 13th January 2021 at 5pm GMT. Competition hosted by Totally Entwined Group.

Christmas Magic by Shea Balik

Title: Christmas Magic

Series: Believe 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary, Holidays

Length: Novel (192pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 14, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Do you believe in the magic of Christmas? Tim Richards didn’t, so why had he thought he could make a Christmas wish and have it come true?

Much to his surprise, he met the man of his dreams when Nick Snow walked into his world and turned it upside down. The life he had always hated was becoming something from a dream and more than anything he could have ever possibly imagined. For Tim, to believe childhood fantasies could come true, was impossible.

Nick Snow tended to only think about work. That was, until he met Tim. He’d never imagined anyone would ever come between him and his career. Now he knew that there was so much more to life than a job.

Can Nick show Tim that Christmas Magic is real?

Warning: This book contains frivolity, laughter, and a lot of sex. Nothing is off the table when these two figure out if their reality is nothing more than fantasy, or if their fantasies can become reality, with faith in a little Christmas Magic..

ISBN: B07L24LCB9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Tim’s life consists of working several jobs to make ends meet. He wishes for something better in his life but thinks it won’t happen. When he meets Nick his life takes a turn he never dreamed would be possible.

Nick is sweet and attentive as he learns about Tim’s life or lack there of. He has all the confidence that Tim will succeed when he gets a new job at a toy store. Along with that Nick dazzles him with things Tim never experienced as a child.

I loved everything about this story. It was heart warming to see so much happiness brought Tim’s way after all he had endured. Fantastic read.

Poor Little Rich Boy by Katey Hawthorne Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Hi guys! We have Katey Hawthorne popping in today with her new release Poor Little Rich Boy, we have a brilliant short guest post from Katey, a great excerpt and a fantastic 2 x £10 Amazon GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Poor Little Rich Boy

Katey Hawthorne

Ted MacTaggart’s overbearing father is still trying to control his life, even from the grave. His will insists that, in order to inherit the family company, MAC Superior, Ted must be married by his twenty-fifth birthday — and the marriage has to be “real.” As in the board of MAC has to sign off on it.

Ted could fight the will, but then the handsome, artistic Ryan Costa, an old friend from school days walks back into his life, offering to be his groom-of-convenience. Ted draws up the contracts and Ryan, who has family medical bill problems, agrees gladly to the terms. Ted, emotionally walled off and afraid of his attraction to Ryan, also suggests they should keep their relationship strictly professional. Caring for people has always proven a weakness for him. Now isn’t the time to start.

It’s not long before Ryan’s charm breaks through Ted’s walls, but Ted isn’t his own worst enemy in this case. Other forces are vying for MAC Superior, and even when their relationship is becoming the real deal, its shaky foundations land Ryan and Ted in trouble.

Continue reading “Poor Little Rich Boy by Katey Hawthorne Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!” →

Settling the Score by C. Koehler Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Settling the Score

Series: CalPac Crew, Book Four

Author: C. Koehler

Publisher: NineStar Press

Release Date: 12/28/2020

Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 103900

Genre: Contemporary, LGBTQIA+, Contemporary, romance, family-drama, gay, bisexual, medical student, property developer, corporate intrigue, instant family

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Description

Stuart Cochrane and Philip Sundstrom are very busy men. Stuart, freshly graduated from California Pacific, works as much as he can to save money for medical school. Philip, now in charge of the family home-construction company, works long hours to save the company from his father’s blunders and back-stabbing cronies. A chance encounter brings them together and the attraction is fierce and instant. While neither has time for a relationship, they can’t keep away from each other.

When the National Team recruits Stuart to cox, only Philip understands that Stuart’s sick of rowing and wants nothing more than to start medical school. When Philip’s board of directors plots to remove him from his own company, Stuart helps him scheme and strategize. Despite their emotional and sexual chemistry, Stuart’s hang-ups about money and rich people doom their fledgling relationship. But after a personal tragedy, Stuart must overcome his prejudices and accept Philip’s help. Can Philip set aside his broken heart to help Stuart in his hour of greatest need and, dare he hope, a family?

Excerpt

The waiter held Philip’s eye a moment too long. Philip knew what that meant and flushed from the starched collar of his shirt all the way up to the gelled magnificence of his golden bangs. Left to its own devices, his hair flopped down to cover his eyes, and right then, Philip kind of wished it could. Instead, he’d styled his hair like he always did, parting it on the left and then the bulk of the bangs were up up and away! in a truly stupendous flight of fancy that was probably on the wrong side of metrosexual for a corporate CEO. When he was by himself, he played the game, but c’mon, dude. He was here with his girlfriend. What kind of trash did he think Philip was? It meant he had to cut the waiter. The cut direct wasn’t his style, but Philip felt like he didn’t have a choice. Angie was his priority.

“The waiter’s certainly attentive this evening,” Angie commented.

Philip cocked one eyebrow. “Sweetheart, did you get a good look at yourself? You’re stunning.”

“You think so?” she said, smiling sweetly. “Thank you, Philip. It’s always nice to be noticed.”

“I always notice you,” he said, smiling back. He raised his wine glass in a salute. “Notice and appreciate.”

Angie touched her glass to his in an almost-silent toast. “Charmer. Half the time I feel upstaged by you. Is that a new suit? You look amazing.” Then she glanced at the waiter. “I get the feeling I’m not the only one who thinks your tailor is a god among men.”

“Boy, you buy one new sport suit—”

“A week,” Angie interrupted, her eyes merry. She was enjoying herself.

“—one new suit, and people accuse you of being a dandy.” Philip sighed theatrically. “Memo to self: return the ascot and waistcoat ASAP,” he said in a stage whisper.

They shared a quiet laugh. Philip reached across the table to caress her cheek, and Angie leaned into his touch. Her beauty struck him once again, and that evening, she’d gone all out, every bit his match in an ivory satin gown with the back down to here and her auburn hair done with seed pearls as it cascaded down her back. She even wore a simple cameo around her neck, an antique Wedgwood piece he’d given her for Valentine’s Day the year before. Then he noticed she’d mounted it on a mauve ribbon that clashed horribly with her auburn hair. What on earth had she been thinking? He’d given it to her on a cream ribbon for a reason—

Dinner arrived and Philip dropped his hand.

He tried to ignore the argument going in his mind about the colors, but it was hard. He’d always had an overdeveloped sense of aesthetics, and at times growing up with Brad and Randall had been nothing but torment. Builders’ houses were always one of two types: ramshackle and about to fall over, or palatial monuments to every architectural innovation and new concept to show up in the design rags. The Sundstrom home was one of the latter type, if poorly decorated, and no sooner had he shoved Randall off stage and into the hands of the police than he called in the cavalry to remove the worst of his father’s excesses and atrocities. Gone were the putti pissing into fountains and faux-antique tapestries and superfluous televisions, and there were no more—Philip jerked his thoughts back to the here and now. He sat across the table from a beautiful woman at a posh restaurant. His aesthetic hang-ups could wait.

Philip genuinely enjoyed Angie’s company. They might not live together—yet—but they certainly spent a lot of time in each other’s company, mostly at her condo. She found his house “creepy, like a funeral home,” even with Randall out of there and every room but his mother’s old sitting room and her library redone. Not that he blamed her—it was large and foreboding, and maybe it was time to sell it. When he’d called to invite her out to dinner earlier in the week, she’d been overjoyed, even more so than usual. It made him wonder if he weren’t missing something, but a thorough search of his day planner by both himself and Suresh revealed nothing.

After gnawing his guts out for a while, he’d finally given up, and when it came time to pick her up, he gave in and let himself enjoy the evening. “Are you ready to go home?”

“Yes, I think so,” Angie said. Was that a tightening around her eyes?

Philip signaled the waiter, who promptly brought him the check. When Philip put a black Amex card down, the man’s eyes widened. It would have been comical, but Philip found it hard to believe no one at this restaurant had ever seen American Express’s Centurion Card before.

“Here you are, Mr. Sundstrom,” the waiter said when he returned, placing the receipt before Philip and then departing. Philip signed it, including a generous tip.

Philip held Angie’s chair for her and then waited patiently while she wrapped her shawl around her shoulders. As they walked out of the restaurant, Philip smiled at their waiter. “Thank you. We had a lovely evening.”

But it was only as they waited for his car to be brought around that he noticed the waiter had written a number—presumably his—on the back of the credit card slip, but lightly and in pencil so it didn’t show from the front. Classy. Philip crumpled it up and threw it in the trash.

“They’re staring at you out here too,” Angie whispered.

Philip blushed. “I think you mean they’re looking at you.”

“Some of them, maybe.” She laughed. “A few, the straight ones.”

But they weren’t all straight, he could tell that right off the bat. Sorry, boys. He played, but never when he was in a committed relationship.

“Remind me not to come back here. This is very embarrassing.”

She hooked her arm on his. “I think it’s hilarious, and you blush very prettily.”

“Great.” He rolled his eyes.

It made him uncomfortable, that regard, even if he understood it. Thanks to the last year at SunHo, he knew how to project an air of authority, and a lot of people found that attractive. It wasn’t quite a matter of “do the opposite of Randall.” After all, his father had run SunHo with an air of power, but in Philip’s estimation, that power was based on fear. Employees in SunHo’s corporate offices had feared for their jobs, at least when Randall stomped and blustered. But authority? That was something different. Philip knew when he spoke, he would be listened to. He might be young for a CEO, but by and large, he was respected. He wasn’t sure Randall could’ve said that, or even appreciated the difference.

In his early thirties, Philip was young, fit, and, based on the evidence at dinner, handsome; he was very well situated financially, and the waiter and valets could tell that from the credit card and his car. He loved his Merc, a sleek sports car, the six-figure kind with the spoiler to prevent it from taking flight. At least he assumed that’s why they stared. Or maybe he had spinach stuck between his teeth, he thought ruefully, the perils of being a vegetarian there to keep him humble.

They drove back to Angie’s condo in silence, insulated from the sounds of the city by the Merc, but what, Philip wondered, isolated them from each other? He bore responsibility for that, the lion’s share, at least. He felt bad for neglecting Angie in favor of SunHo. It wasn’t that he preferred SunHo per se, but it seemed so much more immediate to him. More…real, he realized guiltily, but that’s not how he wanted his life to be. Angie always understood—or acted as if she did. She got that he’d taken over the family business, even if she didn’t know the particulars of how that had come about. As far as he was concerned, she didn’t need to either.

But simply because Philip had chosen this life, it didn’t stand to reason that Angie was happy with it. He knew she’d prefer to be living the high life, preferably in San Francisco. Angie cared for him, so no gold digger, she, but he didn’t fool himself on that score either. She enjoyed the life his money afforded them. Buying Brad out a few years ago might’ve set him back, but SunHo grew and expanded, despite the recession and building slowdown. Philip was loaded, and Angie knew it.

He glanced over at Angie as he drove, her face turned away from him, inscrutable in the passing lights. He knew what he wanted from the next step in life, but was it what Angie wanted?

Unable to decipher his uncharacteristically enigmatic girlfriend, Philip retreated into his thoughts, pretending he was in the cockpit of a spaceship instead of a luxury car, because damn, the onboard computer was almost that complicated. He liked Mercedes for the same reason he liked Macs. They both embodied high performance and elegant design and didn’t bother him with a lot of irritating details. Sure, BMW made amazing cars, but they always seemed to want his input on some matter or other, and he got enough of that at work. As for PCs, Philip was sure there was an elegant and highly functional one somewhere, he’d just never heard of it. But really, they’d gone from a charming dinner together full of conversation and laughter to him retreating into his imagination. Again. He’d been doing that more and more lately.

If he were to be honest with himself, it couldn’t be a good sign, but they looked good together, and she was someone to hold on cold, dark nights. Angie was someone to cling to when he’d spent too much time reading the Existentialists and felt too alone in an uncaring universe. But was that really a reason to stay in a relationship with someone? On the whole, Philip reasoned, there were worse ones, but it would only be fair if she felt the same way, and he knew for a fact she had no patience for what she called his “navel-gazing.” This raised the question of why on Earth he was with someone who so easily dismissed his interests and the things he valued. On the other hand, he didn’t remember his parents sharing that many interests. So many puzzles.

The keypad at the entrance to the parking lot under Angie’s condo tower saved Philip from further omphaloskepsis. After he parked in her designated guest space and opened the door for her, Angie again laughed and flirted in the elevator.

“Dinner was great, but tomorrow night I want to go clubbing in the city,” she said, moving in close, breathing in his ear, hand roaming south of his belt.

“What’re you doing?” Philip gasped at the sudden assault.

“What does it feel like I’m doing?”

He looked down at her, amazed at her audacity. “Groping me. What if someone comes in?”

“Then I stop.”

Purchase

NineStar Press | Books2Read

Meet the Author

Christopher Koehler always wanted to write, but it wasn’t until his grad school years that he realized writing was how he wanted to spend his life. Long something of a hothouse flower, he’s been lucky to be surrounded by people who encouraged that, especially his long-suffering husband of twenty-nine years and counting.

He loves many genres of fiction and nonfiction, but he’s especially fond of romances, because it’s in them that human emotions and relations, at least most of the ones fit to be discussed publicly, are laid bare.

While writing is his passion and his life, when he’s not doing that, he’s a househusband, at-home dad, and oarsman with a slightly disturbing interest in manners and the other ways people behave badly.

Christopher is approaching the tenth anniversary of publication and has been fortunate to be recognized for his writing, including by the American Library Association, which named Poz a 2016 Recommended Title, and an Honorable Mention for “Transformation,” in Innovation, Volume 6 of Queer Sci Fi’s Flash Fiction Anthology.

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Hart Medical Center series by Shea Balik

Title: Breaking Barriers

Series: Hart Medical Center 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Detective Jamal Tuma was used to life not going his way. As an omega in an alpha dominated world, he’d experienced more than his fair share of bigotry when he’d decided to enter the police force. His life had been put in danger more times than he could count for no other reason than alphas above him thought it wouldn’t matter if he’d died on the job. Yet, in the six years he’d been a cop, he’d never come quite so close to death as he did when an alpha doctor didn’t feel it necessary to treat his gunshot wound.

Brace Jacobs had never given much thought to the omegas in their world. As a doctor, he’d taken an oath to heal, no matter their color, creed, sex, or even their omega status. But not everyone felt the way he did. It didn’t sit well with Brace, but he didn’t go out of his way to fix the problem, either. That was until Detective Jamal Tuma came through those doors and nearly died with Brace’s hands deep in his body as he fought to save the omega.

Warning: Hijinx and mayhem will ensue as these two fight the world around them, as well as their own ridiculous preconceived notions, as they hope to build a future together. But that might be easier said than done when there are stalkers, assholes, idiots, and one very determined Patient Care Coordinator, who will kick everyone’s ass while planning a circus, if that’s what it takes for them to begin Breaking Barriers.

ISBN: B083RLXTLP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: From the moment Brace meets an omega with a gunshot to the abdomen he has been at the man’s side waiting for him to come out of his coma. The new patient coordinator, Shale is a blast as he doesn’t crap from anyone. This was a delightful story to read with colorful characters, a mysterious stalker and alphas who are bigots trying hard to stop the changes implemented at the hospital.

I loved how Jamal stood up for himself even against Brace. He’s as fierce as Shale when he is determined about something. Jamal and Brace were off the charts cute together. Even though we still don’t know who the stalker is I enjoyed the story. I really felt for omegas as some alphas see them as less than. It really angered me that some police and doctors who are sworn to protect and serve everyone shun them.

I am honestly intrigued with this series so far and am looking forward to getting to know the characters more as the series progresses.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Title: Hurdling Fences

Series: Hart Medical Center 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (157pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (February 7, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

ISBN: B084LQJJWF

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

It was an awesome read but I admit to wanting to know more about the stalker’s identity as I have my suspicions about who they might be.

Fantastic read.

Title: Stumbling into Obstacles

Series: Hart Medical Center 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (156pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (March 13, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Case Weber has been riddled with guilt for his whole adult existence. One act changed the course of his life, causing him to believe he didn’t deserve to find his happily ever after.

ISBN: B085WM8FKX

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

I loved this addition but I have a feeling I know who the stalker is. I just wish there was more clues. I loved Alaric and Case together. Alaric was always there whether Case needed him or not.

Fantastic addition to the series.

Title: Head on Collision

Series: Hart Medical Center 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (157pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (April 25, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Warning: Graphic threats made by a stalker.

PLEASE NOTE: Although each book focuses on a different couple, and they all have HEAs, this series is better enjoyed when read in order! Join us in trying to figure out who the stalker is!.

ISBN: B087PN9DKP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Amazing addition to the series that I thoroughly enjoyed reading. Danger, bigoted stalker/s, romance, suspense and romance are all in abundance in this story.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Title: Tiptoeing Through a Minefield

Series: Hart Medical Center 05

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (155pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (May 26, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

These two obstinate men must find a way to compromise before it’s too late. It isn’t just a happily ever after they are fighting for, but their very lives.

PLEASE NOTE: Although each couple gets their very own HEA, this series should be read in order for maximum enjoyment!.

ISBN: B0899J8M5B

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Title: Clashing With a Titan

Series: Hart Medical Center 06

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (86pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (July 4, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Warning: Triggers possible for shooting as well as gruesome notes left for the stalker’s victims..

ISBN: B08CD6VHXZ

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Delightful addition to the series. Fantastic read.

Title: Shattering Foundations

Series: Hart Medical Center 07

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (166pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (September 13, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Warning: Rape is involved in this story, although the actual act is off screen. Although each couple in this series gets their own HEA, you should read the entire series for the ongoing story arc!

ISBN: B08HZG44DP

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

The stalkers begin rearing their heads and finally we find out at least who one of the stalkers is.

Intense and scary good. I liked that the story was not as focused on the couple in this one. There were a lot of moving parts that brought this story to life.

Fantastic read.

Title: Barreling Through Road Blocks

Series: Hart Medical Center 08

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Omegaverse

Length: Novella (101pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 10, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

The stalker’s plan to kill the Omegas of Hart’s Medical Center is cunning. No one is safe. But the stalker’s victims and their husbands refuse to give up hope.

Can love really conquer all? Soren and Cillian will test that theory as they try to stop the stalker before it’s too late.

Author’s Note: This is the last book in the Hart Medical Center Series.

ISBN: B08N7ZRDRR

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

I highly recommend the entire series.

Uncorked 01 – 04 by Shea Balik

Title: Bubbly

Series: Uncorked 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Shea Balik (October 19, 2017)

Length: Novella

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

There was no doubt about it, Macalister Whitmore was as straight-laced as they came. He worked all the time, never did anything that would be considered fun, and almost always wore a suit and tie, even in the laid back southern town of Dahlonia, where the dress code tended to be jeans and t-shirts. It was how his parents raised him and Macalister was sure even a tanning salon couldn’t change that.

David Wilson wanted to throttle his best friend for sending Mac to his tanning salon to try and loosen up the uptight lawyer. He had never met anyone that had actually worn a suit to a tanning salon before. What Mac needed was a doctor to remove that stick from his ass. Then again, if Mac continued to look down his nose at David, he would remove it himself.

Still, it seemed that opposites do attract, so they decide to give each other a chance.

Happily ever after may sound like a dream come true, but no one ever said it didn’t come with pain and heartache. Will they walk away from each other, or walk through hell for the chance to pop some Bubbly and celebrate finding their happy ending?

ISBN:

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

A brand new series by one of my favorite authors, and I knew right off the bat I had to read it. She creates worlds that are funny as hell, with a serious tone to parts of it and some interesting times to find. The characters are fully developed just as the story itself is.

Mac is a focused on work and no fun. From the time he was born his parents told him what he was going to do and where he would work. He got his law degree and went to work where they wanted, but then he decided to think for himself. Now he was a lawyer for the people. So his friends decided to help him out. They sent him to get a tan.

David was a pretty good guy and loved owning his own business. He gave tans out, and it didn’t always turn out well. Guys thought it meant he was up for anything. Then he was told about Mac, and man is that guy just meant to be punched. However he looks underneath the facade, and well things heat up.

It is a pretty good story although the characters both needed to be swatted. I had a lot of fun reading this and definitely would recommend it.

Title: Full Bodied

Series: Uncorked 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 14, 2017)

Length: Novella (124pgs)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

For Nolan Woods, life had been a miserable existence that had left him lonely and depressed. Nothing had ever seemed to go his way. It was his own fault for being such a loser, but it would still be nice if just once he had something end up in his favor. Unfortunately, for that to happen he’d have to put down the food he loved so much.

West Baxter led a charmed life. In college, he and his friends had decided to open a winery, allowing him to travel and meet new people. It had been a playboy lifestyle but when he met Nolan Woods, he found himself longing to settle down instead. Too bad their new winery needed him out on the road to sell their wines it they ever hoped of being the success they had dreamed about.

Nolan’s misery had him taking drastic action to change himself. He never thought in a million years anyone would like him as he was. But before he could go under the knife, West had finally had enough of life on the road and seduced Nolan.

Suddenly Nolan no longer knew what to do. He didn’t believe West would ever be able to love him as he was, but if he told West his plans West just might realize what a loser Nolan was and leave him even sooner. Either way, Nolan had to pray that West would understand that Nolan could no longer be Full Bodied.

ISBN: 9781370030200

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

Nolan is a sweet young man who has just a slight little problem. He is overweight and needs to lose it. Not only for his health but for his happiness. All through growing up and into adulthood he had been teased and bullied. He left home hoping never to come back. That all ended when his mother called him about his fathers death, and begged him to come home. So getting a job at the winery sounded good. He just hadn’t expected to have a crush on one of the bosses.

West was that boss, the one Nolan had a crush on. Sexy as all get out, he has a big heart as well. He has wanted Nolan from the start, but had decided he needed to take his time. He traveled quite a bit for the business and wasn’t yet ready to give it up. That is until he found Nolan in tears.

This is a cute story that made my day. I had a blast reading it and the characters were just perfect for it. This story caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. It has a fully developed plot that will keep you entertained, and some pretty hot sex. I can not wait to get my hands on the next story.

Title: Blush

Series: Uncorked 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (184 Pages)

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 29, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

Fifteen years ago, Kadyn Bellamy and Valor Lee had blown any chance of building a future together. Valor had joined the CIA to hunt down terrorists and Kadyn abhorred violence. At the time, their differences had seemed insurmountable.

When Valor shows up in Dahlonia looking as hot as ever, Kadyn needs to decide if he can reconcile their divergent viewpoints. The choice wasn’t as easy as it might seem. If only the love he’d felt for Valor had diminished, he could easily walk away. It didn’t seem fair that he might have to give up the love of his life, twice.

All Valor wanted was the future he and Kadyn had dreamed. For fifteen years, his love for Kadyn had only grown. He’d known when he’d walked away from Kadyn all those years ago, it would be a challenge to convince Kadyn they could still make their dreams come true.

It was only when tragedy struck, that Kadyn was forced to come to grips with the past. With eyes wide open, he was ready to take a step into the future. He just needed to decide if Valor would be a part of it or not

ISBN: B077PVX6MD

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

I came across Shea when she came out with the first book in the Cedar Falls collection. From that moment on I knew that she was going to become a favorite of mine. They seem to always have a quirky character in them, one that will always have you laughing your ass off. It seems that she has went on with that with the rest of her books. It is one of the things that I love the most.

Then there is an alpha male that our men fall in love with, as well as one that has had a rough time. However sometimes both men have had a bad tumble in life. With this story it has a deeper story inside. When wanting peace, it does take a bit of violence to get there. This story will have you in tears and also laughing.

Valor and Kadyn were lovers many years before and had been in love. With violence, brought in Valor’s desires to protect his family, friends and country. His father had been killed by terrorist, and he wanted to make those pay. He joined the CIA to make that work, but in doing so he destroyed what he had had with the man he loved.

Kadyn had lost his father to a violent act, all because of a football game. He went in the opposite direction as Valor. He was always wanting peace and never could stand violence. He saw a darker side to Valor, but his heart had been torn in two, when the man he loved chose the CIA to him. They went their own way.

Now fifteen years later, and Valor was back. He wanted the man he loved back with him. It was not going so well though. When Chet and Leo are attacked, and Chet fighting for his life, it brings Kadyn into focus. He was seeing why Valor had made the choice.

I am mostly on Kadyn side of the coin so to speak, violence only seems to bring more violence. However I can also understand Valor as well. Human’s seem to need the violence in their lives sometimes. There will never be peace completely. Shine was a big kick in this story, and can’t wait to read his. I think I actually loved this book even more then the others, but what a struggle our sexy Leo and Chet will have to go through. I really can’t wait to get to their story.

I enjoyed reading this and can guarantee that it will be read many times over. I had a lot of fun reading this and can not wait to get my hands on the next book. I can guarantee that this book will have you crying in your crackers. I loved it and would recommend it to all.

Title: Shine

Series: Uncorked 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (193pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 8, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

Shine was over people thinking because he had a southern accent, and made moonshine, that he was a hillbilly redneck with no education. Sure, he occasionally liked to fuck with them and spout out his grandpappy’s sayings, like every dog should have a few fleas, but that didn’t make him dumber than a box of rocks. So, when he met a man who made his heart race and his mouth go dry with the thought of licking every inch of his body, then instantly put him down because he was making moonshine instead of wine, Shine dared him to try and drink with the big boys.

Montague knew better than to take the challenge to drink the moonshine Shine was offering, but he refused to be insulted by some hick from this small, backwater town. The fire that ignited in his stomach and burned a path up his throat, making him want to cry for his mommy, told him just how stupid he could be. Fucking pride. If Shine didn’t get that smirk off his face at Montague’s reaction to the battery acid he called alcohol, Montague was going to punch him in the mouth. Or kiss him. It was a tough call to make.

There is a fine line between love and hate, especially when alcohol is involved. Then again, it might take a little liquid courage to drop their defenses enough to discover their passion for each other.

ISBN: 978-1-37063-179-7

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

To me there is nothing better than a good romance between two sexy men. If those me just so happen to throw sparks off and have some humor going on, then the better. I came across this author some time ago and knew she was going to be one that I would follow. Her stories always have just a bit of conflict in them, lots of humor, hot sex and some good old fashion loving.

When people find out that Shine talks with a southern accent and deals with moonshine, they tend to throw him to the curb and call him a redneck hillbilly with no brains. That is what happens when he comes across Montague. The truth is, Shine is probably one of the smartest men around.

Montague has never really had a job, just a few part-time ones here and there. He has a job now as tour guide, but the creep he works for is asking for a bit more then our sexy man is willing to give. Now the first time Montague and Shine meet, it doesn’t go down so well. But he might be the only one willing to give Montague a full time job and help.

Sparks fly and so do the clothes when these two finally get it together. You mix that in with some powerful alcohol and we will see what happens with these two. Great story with likable characters. I always did get a kick out of this series, and definitely can’t wait to get my hands on the next one. But I will leave the drinking to those who can handle the crazy alcohol that Shine makes.

Believe series (01 – 04) by Shea Balik

Title: Christmas Miracle

Series: Believe 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary, Holidays

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 18, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: At a very early age, Ben learned that, in life, there was no such thing as something to believe in. What was the point? Each time he did, someone would come along and prove to him how wrong he was. The fact that his sister died by a drunk driver, who’d walked away without a scratch, and forcing Tobias to move to Texas — one of the most homophobic states in the country — to take care of his now motherless nieces, drove home just how cruel life could be. How was he supposed to help two of the sweetest kids he’d ever known deal with the hell their life would be without the one person they’d depended on, when he was fairly certain, his moving to Texas would only show them how horrible people could be to one another?

Darius had seen things that would make most people cringe in revulsion and dread. His parents had traveled, with Darius in tow, all around the world to help those in need. So tragedy wasn’t something new to him. As terrible as some of it had been, Darius had also seen the kindness and sacrifice people made to help others. He was a true believer in the goodness of humanity.

Determined to help Ben discover that though he may have had hit a few bumps in the road growing up, he’d also met people who had been there for him, helping him when they didn’t have to get involved. For life might not always be perfect and at times even cruel, but it was also wonderful and kind if one knew where to look.

Ben had to admit that Darius was causing him to look at the world differently. That there might be a chance he’d been only looking for the negative. But, for him, there was one more test that the world would have to pass for him to truly change and it would take a Christmas Miracle to do it.

ISBN: B0788PJ1DF

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A heartwarming story that will make you sad, happy and laugh. Ben gets called home to take care of his nieces after his sisters death. While at the funeral he meets the minister Darius when he comes to his rescue after Ben’s mother starts up with him.

I did not like Ben’s prejudice, homophobic mother. She really got on my nerves. Thankfully Darius was always there to help.

I loved the life changing aspects of the book and how each character dealt with certain situations.

Great read.

Title: Christmas Magic

Series: Believe 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary, Holidays

Length: Novel (192pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 14, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Do you believe in the magic of Christmas? Tim Richards didn’t, so why had he thought he could make a Christmas wish and have it come true?

Can Nick show Tim that Christmas Magic is real?

ISBN: B07L24LCB9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

I loved everything about this story. It was heart warming to see so much happiness brought Tim’s way after all he had endured. Fantastic read.

Title: Christmas Gift

Series: Believe 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (150pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 15, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

ISBN: B082T2ZRV9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

The family find joy in everything they do together and it shows. I loved how in tune Cabot was to the kids and Patrick. Patrick for his part was adorable when flustered.

Fantastic read.

Title: Christmas List

Series: Believe 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 18, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

ISBN: B08R27DHQ9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Fantastic read.

Heart of the Holidays by Pat Henshaw Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Pat Henshaw has a new MM holiday romance out:

Heart of the Holidays.

And there’s a giveaway!

Everyone hopes his road to happily ever after will be carefree and smooth, but too often hair-pin turns and detours seem to get in the way.

Having thought he was on the road to forever before, former Silicon Valley programmer Dan Lassiter is leery about pedaling down it again. His elderly companion Charlie urges him to get to know Rick Reardon whose bakery is across the street from Dan’s bicycle shop.

Under the watchful eye of Charlie, Dan and Rick take tentative steps towards each other, all the while trying to avoid potholes such as exes, homophobes, and family problems.

As summer turns to fall and then winter, they hope that the road will be smooth going from their first date and first kiss to having what Rick’s sister euphemistically calls their “sleep overs”. At each step, though, they are tripped up and wonder why there seem to be so many bumps in their road.

Maybe Dan and Rick should heed some of Charlie’s sage advice or maybe they should listen to their hearts instead of the warnings from their pasts.

QRI Universal Buy Link

Giveaway

Win 2 x $10 JMS Books gift cards!

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Pat Henshaw Guest Post!

The Perfect Cookie Exchange

The Perfect Stack of Cookies to Go

One of the delights of the holiday season is a cookie exchange with friends and coworkers. True, it’s going to be a little light this year, what with COVID restrictions and all. But that makes it all the better to devise a game plan for next year and the one after.

Why a game plan?

Because you don’t want to be the person whose cookies smash and break before they are exchanged. You want to be the one with the perfectly delicious looking stack of an array of different cookie types, each cookie looking enticing in its own right.

But how can you do that with a stack of cookies?

Glad you asked.

You need to come up with your cookie tiers. Or you can steal mine.

The bottom tier for my cookie exchange plate is a pan cookie—usually chocolate chip bars or pecan pie bars—anything with enough internal heft that they can withstand a stack of cookies on top of them and still not be squished.

Stay away from lemon bars or cheesecake bars, which while yummy will yield like sinkholes, making them and the cookies stacked on top into one mega-cookie.

True, that’s great for the person who picks up the top cookie and finds them all stuck together in the jackpot of the holiday season.

Still, if you get caught with the mega-cookie, you are stuck with it and can’t pry one off and leave the rest for another hapless eater.

So be kind and plan a sturdy, non-sinkable bottom tier.

The middle tier is the traditional colorful cookie tier—gingerbread people, cut-out and frosted cookies, and shaped dough goodies.

The key to this layer is color, lots and lots of color. For example, blue, white, and silver for Hanukkah or green and red for Christmas or black, red and green for Kwanzaa or red, green, brown, and white for Solstice. Whatever you celebrate, make sure the colors pop at the mid-level of your cookie tier.

Remember that frosting and piping are your friends at this tier.

Finally, add the touch de resistance to the top tier: light, airy meringue delights and chocolate chip clouds.

Make these small, bite-sized treats so that you can use them to place around the decorated cookies to highlight their colors and decorations. Or you can use them to stack into a pyramid to support the cling-wrap or other protective layer you’re using to transport your exchange plate.

Whether you call them biscuits (like the Great British Baking Show does) or cookies like Americans do, edible exchanges are the highlight of any season, but particularly of those holidays in the winter.

Do you participate in a cookie exchange either during the holidays or during the rest of the year? If so, what’s your favorite cookie type?

Give yourself a gift of cheer with four HEA romances to take the edge off 2020:

Blame It on the Fruitcake where a motorcycle shop owner and a location scout bond over a grandmother’s holiday recipe;

The Orpheum Miracle in which a squatter in a revival theater meets the man of his dreams;

Making the Holidays Happy Again that sees a blacksmith forge a future with a chemist; and

Heart of the Holidays where a bicycle repairman and a baker travel down the road to love.

And whatever you do, remember that Every day is a good day for romance.

Excerpt

The kids and their mom arrived after lunch, right about the time Charlie usually turned in for a nap. He gave them the once over as they got out of the car, nodded to me with raised eyebrows, and ambled back toward the house. I guess he figured he’d meet them sometime, probably sooner rather than later, so he didn’t have to knock himself out now. It was the siesta part of his day.

After the kids tumbled from the car and jumped on Rick, he pointed at my open garage and waved at me. I waved back, and they galloped across the street.

“Hi, I’m McKinsey! You can call me Mack.” The red-haired boy danced in front of me. His hair blazed in the sun and was as bright as his green eyes and freckles. He didn’t look anything like his uncle. “So these are all the bikes I can ride? Can I try them out first?”

“Yeah, but don’t go very far. I’ve got an app keeping an eye on them.”

“Cool. Bye.”

He didn’t wait for me to explain further, but ran toward the racks so fast that I thought he would barrel into them. A small hand on my arm stopped me from chasing after him.

“Don’t worry. He’s careful. He won’t hurt the bikes. We won’t go far because of mom.” Since I wasn’t worried about the bicycles, I looked down into brown eyes, a solemn face, and curly sable hair. “I’m Leslie. Everyone calls me Lee. My brother throws himself into his activities. I don’t. Can we choose any of the bicycles?”

I glanced up at their uncle who shrugged at me. The small hand let go of my arm, so I looked down at Lee again.

“Yes. You have three choices. One, you can select a bike and ride it the entire time you’re here. Two, you could come back to the garage and pick another one to ride for the day, the half-day, the hour, or however long you want it. That means if you wanted, you could ride every bike in this place in one day. Or your third choice, you could stay at the bakery and not go bike riding at all.” I winked at her. “I would choose the bakery except then I’d look like a human lead balloon if I did.”

She giggled and put her hand on my arm again.

“I like you, Mr. Dan. I think we’ll get along fine.” She nodded and gave me a long assessing once over. “Don’t worry. You don’t look like a balloon at all. Not at all.”

If she’d been in her teens, I would have thought she was flirting. But Lee seemed as if she was merely making an observation.

I liked both kids and their approaches to life. I’d be willing to bet Charlie would like them too when he got up from his nap and met them.

Unlike her brother, Lee sauntered over to the bikes, many of which were now askew thanks to Mack’s unsorting process. She carefully started to right those tossed aside. She stopped at a turquoise bicycle, hopped on, and waved to me and her uncle as she sped away. Her brother was long gone. The bike rack still needed straightening which would give me something to do while Charlie snoozed.

I started toward it. Rick had surged across the street and was striding up to me.

“Here. I’ll help.” He stood staring down at the mishmash of bikes. “If you show me how to untangle them without making things worse.”

I nodded.

“I don’t get it. Aren’t you afraid people will just take off with your bikes and you’ll never see them again?”

I watched him bend over to pick up one on the ground. My groin tightened at the sight. We were going out to dinner. Together. Soon. My heart and dick lifted as my mind piled up image after image of dinner and afterward. It was about time for me to get back in the saddle as it were.

Author Bio

Pat Henshaw, born and raised in Nebraska, has lived on the U S’s three coasts, in Texas, Virginia, and now California.

Before she retired, she held a number of jobs, including theatrical costumer, newspaper features reporter and movie reviewer, librarian, junior college English instructor, and publicist.

She also loves to travel and has visited Canada, Mexico, Europe, Egypt, Thailand, and Central America as well as almost all fifty US states.

Now retired, she enjoys reading and writing as well as visiting her older daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren on the East Coast and playing havoc with her younger daughter’s life in NorCal.

She thanks you for reading her books and wants you to remember that every day is a good day for romance.

Stranded With Desire by Rick R. Reed & Vivien Dean Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Stranded with Desire

Author: Rick R. Reed, Vivien Dean

Publisher: NineStar Press

Release Date: November 30, 2020

Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 55400

Genre: Contemporary, LGBTQIA+, businessmen, friends to lovers, plane crash, wilderness survival, slow burn, m/m romance

Add to Goodreads

Synopsis

CEO Maine Braxton and his invaluable assistant, Colby, don’t realize they share a deep secret: they’re in love—with each other. That secret may have never come to light but for a terrifying plane crash in the Cascade Mountains that changes everything.

In a struggle for survival, they brave bears, storms, and a life-threatening flood to make it out of the wilderness alive. The proximity to death makes them realize the importance of love over propriety. Confessions emerge. Passions ignite. They escape the wilds renewed and openly in love.

When they return to civilization, though, forces are already plotting to snuff out their short-lived romance and ruin everything both have worked so hard to achieve.

Excerpt

Prologue

Colby LaSalle never dreamed his life would end in a plane crash over the Cascade Mountains in Washington State. But here he was, whispering fevered petitions to the Lord as the plane screamed, plunging downward…faster, faster.

Out the windows, all he could see was white. And the only outcome he could imagine was that once that white cleared, the last thing he’d take in would be towering pine trees and the cold side of a mountain hurtling toward him. It was almost too horrific to comprehend.

In those few moments, as Colby braced himself in his seat, head down near his knees, he found himself thinking what a loss this was. The man across from him, his boss, Maine Braxton, would never know the most important thing about Colby. And that thing was not his proficiency as an administrative assistant, keeping Maine on track and on schedule in all his business affairs, but that Colby was passionately—and secretly—in love with him. With all his heart and soul.

That fact, and the unspoken words that hid it, seemed tragic to Colby, maybe even more tragic than the life he was about to lose. What kind of life, Colby wondered, did you really have if you’d never truly loved and been loved in return?

Colby, at twenty-eight, had never been in love before. And now it looked as though he would never have the chance to act on his desire, on that feeling that made his heart flutter whenever Maine walked by his desk. Was love like a tree falling in the forest? If the object of that love never knew of it, did it really exist?

Colby looked up for a moment, maybe to have a final look at Maine, but was distracted by the view through the cockpit window of the six-seater plane they were traveling in—a Beechcraft Bonanza. The opaque fog of white cleared for a moment, and Colby could see, to his horror, that his imagination was correct.

They were hurtling toward the side of a mountain. The view was surreal. Shock kept him from thinking it was anything other than a very vivid nightmare.

He then looked over at Maine and saw he had slid from his seat to the floor. The strong, powerful man cowered there, hands over his head. His lips moved in what Colby could only assume was silent prayer.

Colby longed to slide over, to cover Maine with his own body and shield him from the impact, but he was paralyzed, a butterfly pinned to a board, and could only add his own whispered prayers to those of his boss.

“Please, God, help us get out of this alive. Let Maine know how very much I love him. Give me that chance.”

The private pilot, a blustery, gruff man named Gus Pangborn but whom everyone just called Rooster, shouted, “We’re gonna try and go up! We’re gonna try and go up!”

Colby didn’t know if he was talking to him, Maine, or himself, but the desperation in the pilot’s gravelly voice was clear. The despair in Rooster’s words communicated one thing to Colby and one thing only—he had no hope.

Colby squeezed his eyes shut tight and placed his head back down toward his knees again, covering it with his hands, although he wondered how much good it would do once the plane crashed, once it was consumed by a giant fireball.

What Colby LaSalle didn’t realize, though, was that the plane crash would signal not the end of his life, but the beginning.

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Meet the Author

Real Men. True Love.

Rick R. Reed is an award-winning and bestselling author of more than fifty works of published fiction. He is a Lambda Literary Award finalist. Entertainment Weekly has described his work as “heartrending and sensitive.” Lambda Literary has called him: “A writer that doesn’t disappoint…” Find him at www.rickrreedreality.blogspot.com. Rick lives in Palm Springs, CA, with his husband, Bruce, and their fierce Chihuahua/Shiba Inu mix, Kodi.

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Vivien Dean has had a lifetime love affair with stories. A multi-published author, her books have been EPPIE finalists, Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Nominees, and readers favorites. After spending her twenties and early thirties traveling, she has finally settled down and currently resides in northern California with her British husband and two children.

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The Reluctant Royal Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead

General Release Date: 26th January 2021

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<img loading="lazy" class="wp-image-84674 size-medium alignright" src="https://www.indigomarketingdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/eleanor-300x400-1-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" />

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Demon’s Wish

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General Release Date: 5th January 2021

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Poor Little Rich Boy

Katey Hawthorne

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Synopsis

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NineStar Press | Books2Read

Also available in Audio at Audible

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The Reluctant Royal
Catherine Curzon & Eleanor Harkstead