Saturday, January 6, 2024

 

Dirty Plans
Carissa Knight
(The One Night Stand Club)
Publication date: January 5th 2024
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Contemporary, Romance

Who knew finding true love would mean juggling a secret club’s rules, rethinking marital boundaries, and a best friend you suddenly want to kiss?

Lily’s life was predictably pedestrian: side-step her husband’s aloofness, indulge in racy novels with her audacious book club, and dream about feeling that kind of passion in her own life. But a surprise run-in at a cheeky adult toy shop flings her back into the orbit of London, her endearingly rogue-ish childhood best friend, now the manager of Club Nocté—a nightclub synonymous with whispered secrets and sexy encounters.

Dazzled by the nocturnal allure of Nocté and the undeniable chemistry with London, Lily’s once-staid world gets a titillating shake-up. He’s not the boy she once built forts with, but a man with seductive depths that pull her in. And the kicker? London’s not-so-subtle feelings have the urgency of a flash sale—tempting, fleeting, and impossible to resist.

But in a world of impromptu one-night stands, it’s the long-standing emotions that prove the most scandalous. London fell first, and hard. Lily, still tethered to her crumbling marriage, finds herself torn between the nostalgic sweetness of the past and the thrilling promise of a passionate future.

Brace yourself for a joyride of giggles, gasps, and ‘oh-my-god’ moments, as Lily and London navigate a dance of friendship and flirtation, underpinned by the most tantalizing question: Will they dare to cross the line between friendship’s safety for a chance at true love?

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT:

If it wasn’t for these dirty bitches, I don’t know how I’d make it through the week. I’d probably end up one of those lonely, drunk ladies who has way too many cats and an impressive collection of yarn.

“Hey, Lil, can you flip the open sign off for me?” Tasia asks as she stumbles into the reading alcove of her adult bookstore with two dark brown folding chairs tucked under her arms. They almost look like extensions of her body since the color is nearly a perfect match to her beautiful, dark skin.

Beside me, Anna calmly sets her phone in her lap, then pushes her large-framed glasses up her face. Without missing a beat, she raises her right hand and flips the bird toward the front of the building. “Got it.”

Tasia’s expression deadpans. “Hilarious, Chang. Ever think of going into comedy?”

“I aim to please,” Anna retorts with the kind of straight face only she can manage. Maybe it’s her Korean roots showing. Or a prerequisite for being a female computer programmer. Pretty sure those ladies major in ‘Smart Ass.’

Trying to hide my smirk, I push off the small purple loveseat and stand up. “On it.”

Tasia’s dark eyes sparkle as she beams her giant smile at me and sets the first chair out. Then she turns to Anna and says, “See, that’s why she’s my BFF.”

“Kiss ass,” Anna says, pretending to sneeze as she picks her phone back up.

I laugh under my breath and weave through the bookshelves toward the front of the store.

So far, only three of us are on time—me, Tasia, and Anna. We’re waiting on Vivian, who’s notoriously late, but for some reason, it would be weird if she wasn’t.

The Dirty B’s have been meeting every Thursday night in the back of Tasia’s bookstore for the past three years. In that time, the four of us have built something I hadn’t realized I was missing in my life.

Friendship.

Camaraderie.

Hell, a fun group of women who like to sit around, drink wine, and talk about dirty books in a bookstore with more than enough reading material.

Best of all, they don’t care about what kinds of books I read, the ones I won’t touch, or … how I look.

That last piece has been a blessing.

It’s not always easy finding friends who can look past the slightly odd shape of my nose and the scar that tears its way from my upper lip to my left nostril.

Hell, not even my husband can seem to do that.

So, yeah, it’s been nice to be around people who see me for me and not my birth deformity.

Truth be told, it’s been eighteen years since the last time I felt like I was really seen for who I am. That was back when my best childhood friend, London, was still around.

There are times when I still can’t believe his parents forced him to move to Colorado. But that’s the way life goes, right?

People move on.

I walk over to the front door and flip the switch on the open sign. It goes dark just as the door lets out a shrill ding, announcing a newcomer.

Vivian waltzes in with a brown paper bag in her arms and a smile on her face. Her bleach blond hair is up in a messy high ponytail and she’s clad in bright pink yoga pants, paired with a black crop top that shows off her ample cleavage and midriff.

I’d be jealous of her annoyingly perky body if I didn’t know the woman it was actually attached to. I’ll keep my average weight and height, thank you very much.

“Hey, Flower,” she says with a quick wave of her free hand. Vivian is the only one who thinks calling me Flower makes more sense than Lily.

“Hey, Viv. We’re just about to get started,” I say, jabbing my left index finger toward the back of the store. “Was it your week to bring the wine?”

“Yup.” She nods and glances into the bag like she’s surprised it’s still in there.

“Nice.”

Vivian might always be late, but her taste in wine is impeccable. Plus, as one of Duluth’s most sought-after interior designers, she has the budget to afford the good stuff.

“Sorry I’m late. I was sucking Jordan off before he left for Tahoe and the man has stamina. But I had to leave him with an impression, if you know what I mean.” She winks at me and wipes at the corner of her mouth with the tip of her middle finger like she’s cleaning up whatever he left behind.

My face heats and I suck in a quick breath.

With Vivian, you never know if she’s serious or just saying something for shock value. However, the way her hair is slightly disheveled leaves me envisioning her boyfriend’s hands groping at it as he thrusts…

Fuck me.

I press a knuckle to my right eye socket.

She chuckles and continues through the store without elaborating further—thank god.

It’s been two months since Seth and I had sex and it’s starting to do weird things to my brain.

Author Bio:

Carissa is all about bringing the heat in every romance she writes... but she also enjoys making the journey as angsty and awkward as possible. (Because come on! What could be more fun than making the characters squirm?)

While she’s a new kid around the rom-com block, Carissa’s actually been kicking out books for over a decade as Carissa Andrews.

So, hold onto your panties, ladies. They’re about to light on fire with her brand new titillating series, “The One Night Stand Club!”


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Release Date: January 6

The deal was simple--protect my daughter in exchange for my body.

My entire life, I've been a perfect mafia princess--a pawn for men to further their ambitions.

Three men whispered sweet nothings in my ear, swearing they’d rescue me and keep my kid safe. This city turned them into liars--when the worst happened, no one was there to save me but myself.

These men swear they’ve learned their lesson, and I still ache for their touch. Too bad I can’t trust their promises of vengeance and blood.

My body's no longer for sale. And my heart? Don't make me laugh.

Now, I've got nothing left to lose.

With or without them, I’ll rule this city as its queen.

Lies like Rubies, Part Two  is the conclusion of Sofia’s story. It is a dark romance where no one has to choose between their love interests. Please see the author’s website for a full list of content notes.

Grab Your Copy Here!
Available in KU
Meet Poppy Jacobson


Poppy Jacobson writes dark, kinky, reverse harem and poly romances where the heroine never has to choose between her love interests.  She lives in Virginia with her husband and kids.  When she’s not dreaming up tales of mayhem and smut, she loves hiking, crafting, and making soup.

For news and updates about Poppy’s upcoming books, subscribe to her newsletter at http://poppyjacobsonbooks.com.


To learn more about Poppy and her books, visit here


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Title: Fatal Obsession
A Twisted Romeo & Juliet Story
Series: Tales of Obsession #2
Author: Drethi A.
Genre: Dark Romance
Tropes: Forbidden/Forced Proximity Romance
Release Date: January 6, 2024


BLURB

This is a dark Romeo & Juliet retelling with a whodunit twist and a HEA. Damon is a morally ambiguous anti-hero, willing to do anything to keep his girl.

I was groomed to hate Damon Maxwell, but he insisted I was destined to become his.

One night with a masked stranger turned my world upside down. What should have been an anonymous experience ended with me facing off against my family’s nemesis.

His name is Damon Maxwell, the charismatic CEO and a beloved philanthropist. The world chants his name, but he is the last man who should’ve caught my attention. My family is convinced Damon is connected to my cousin's murder and that darkness lingers behind his charming facade. However, Damon claims I am his destiny and refuses to leave me alone.

Desperate to uncover the truth, I play with fire by spending time with him. As his obsession grows, he is determined to burn anything to stand between us to the ground. The closer we become, I am plagued with more questions than answers.

Is he truly the golden boy as painted by the public?
Or is he a villain who has trapped me in his web of seduction?

Author’s note: Damon isn’t a normal romance hero and, in fact, shouldn't be considered a hero at all.
Check the author's complete content warnings before proceeding.





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AUTHOR BIO

Drethi Anis lives close to DC with her husband, where she runs her own wedding planning business. When she’s not busy planning a special day, she can be found planning out ways to put her characters through hell. She is all about angst and dark themes in her books, with a side of psychology. Drethi is drawn to flawed and disturbed characters, whom she loves to put through the wringer before she gives them the Happily Ever After that suits their flaws and personalities. She also loves to travel and tries to visit multiple countries per year. You can find her both on Facebook and TikTok. She loves talking with her readers, so don’t be shy.


AUTHOR LINKS

Friday, January 5, 2024

 

  WHISPERS OF REDEMPTION BY K.T. MADDAN Release date: January 5th 2024   Genre: Contemporary Romance with dark themes.   Tropes: Forced Proximity / Enemies to Lovers / Small Town Romance / Past Trauma / Chosen Family / Ranchers / Grumpy Golden Retriever (He is a softie for her and it pisses him off)   Unleash the Tempest of Love and Redemption in Whispers of Redemption by K.T. Maddan!   Small town passion, rancher allure, and a grumpy golden retriever with a soft spot - this contemporary romance with dark themes is a rollercoaster of emotions!   Grab your copy now and dive into a world where love conquers demons! https://amzn.to/3LYhvP0   Add to your TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/199435667-whispers-of-redemption     Blurb:   Tierney: As I fled my own engagement, determined to leave my past behind, I could still feel the lingering touch of my abuser's hands on my skin. In an Arkansas town, I spent a year rebuilding my self-worth and protecting my heart. The sanctuary I constructed with such care is now my sole possession.   Elias: After five years in jail, I wanted to go back to my family and resume my normal life. But I faced an unexpected twist upon arrival. A woman, full of fire and passion, had become intertwined with every part of my life. She stormed into my world like a tempest, her presence threatening to disrupt the peaceful life I yearned to rebuild.   Together they must face their inner demons, the lurking shadows that cast a constant cloud over their lives. Allowing the protective walls they've meticulously built to crumble, leaving them exposed.   About the Author   Katie has always possessed a talent for crafting captivating stories. She loves crafting characters with profound depth and is passionate about narrating their stories. When she's not busy creating your next literary delight, she enjoys indulging in PC gaming sessions with her partner or showering affection on her beloved fur babies.   Connect with the Author   Website https://www.ktmaddan.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552280563791 Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/300158212797732/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ktmaddan/ Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@ktmaddan Amazon https://www.amazon.com/stores/K.-T.-Maddan/author/B0CKWNV7CG Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/45214475.K_T_Maddan

 




Title: The Billionaire is Back
Authors: Kayley Loring & Connor Crais
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Small Town/Billionaire/Brother's Best Friend
Cover Design: Kari March Designs
Release Date: January 25, 2024


BLURB

People in this small town are whispering…

What they’re saying is that the billionaire is back and he’s going after his best friend’s sister.

What I’m trying to do is help Claire Sweeney’s bakery business.

What I haven’t been able to admit to myself is that in all this time, no matter how hard I tried, I never forgot her.

Now she’s all grown up. I can’t stop thinking about her muffin. Or how guilty I feel when I fantasize about buttering it.

Claire has always been as much a part of Beacon Harbor as the hanging flower baskets, the boat tours, and the lobster races. She has no idea how beautiful I think she is. Even when she has flour on her face. Even when she’s rolling her eyes at me.

I’ve got her brother’s approval, but now it’s Claire that I really have to convince.

She doesn’t believe we have the right ingredients for a real relationship—so she only agrees to pretend to be my girlfriend to help me close a deal in New York.

I believe she’s about to discover exactly how I roll when I know what I want.

And what I want is her.







PRE-ORDER LINKS

$3.99 for pre-order only!

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

Audiobook coming soon narrated by
Connor Crais & Samantha Brentmoor






KAYLEY LORING

Amazon Top 25 and USA Today bestselling author Kayley Loring had a fifteen-year career as a screenwriter in Los Angeles (under a different name) before moving to the Pacific Northwest to pen steamy romantic comedy novels. Now she’s breathing cleaner air, writing dirtier words, and staring at her computer screen until her eyeballs dry out instead of getting facials and going to the hair salon. Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want to laugh, warm your heart, and enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines who need to be chased, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life, and swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends.

Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayleyville
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks and her wildly talented author friends on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!



CONNOR CRAIS

Connor Crais is a classically trained actor living in the Midwest with his wife and three kids. He has been both a stage and television actor, and before plunging into the romance genre, he had been narrating commercials, audiobooks, and explainers for well over a decade from his home studio. From alphas to bosses to cocky sports stars (a particular favorite), he loves sparring with beautiful, sassy heroines (and their talented narrators) but also loves winning them over and reaching that happily ever after. He is excited to now create those stories as an author.




 

Release Date: January 5

The difference between delight and devastation…a single moment.

Until recently, Hannah Jacobs thought she was living. One look at her new neighbor, and she knows she was simply surviving. Going through her days hiding behind a mask, similar to the broken man next door. Together, they slowly realize they want more…happiness, love, a future. And for a fleeting moment, Hannah thought they were well on their way.

Until Erik began to backslide…

Angry. Damaged. Resigned. Erik Hunter didn’t believe himself worthy of anyone’s time or attention. Until Hannah. She became his light in the dark. His angel. Offering salvation where once there were only shattered pieces of a weary soul. But just when he thinks he can have it all, he learns something that threatens their fragile union.

Her will indomitable, Hannah is determined to preserve the life they’re building. But Erik is equally resolute. He’ll do anything to protect the woman he’s coming to love—even from himself.

Erik and Hannah's love story continues where it left off in Erik's Salvation, which is available on Kindle Unlimited. I recommend starting with that story first, to fully enjoy the serial. Their story concludes in book three, Erik's Refuge.

Grab Your Copy Here!  
Available in KU

Meet Nyssa Kathryn


Nyssa Kathryn is a romantic suspense author. She lives in South Australia with her daughter and hubby and takes every chance she can to be plotting and writing. Always an avid reader of romance novels, she considers alpha males and happily-ever-afters to be her jam.

Don’t forget to follow Nyssa and never miss another release.


To learn more about Nyssa and her books, visit here! 

 


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Sassy Southern Books Blog Book Review

 

MINE TO KEEP

Natasha Madison

Release Date: January 5

FREE IN KINDLE UNLIMITED

From Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling author Natasha Madison comes a Small town, Enemies to lovers, Single Dad, Age Gap, Forbidden, Workplace Romance. Grace It wasn’t hard for me to walk away from my family without looking back—the time had come for me to live for myself. New city. New job. My new boss? He’s gorgeous. It’s too bad that handsome face is wasted on such a condescending prick. He hates me, and the feeling is mutual. The only reason he may not be the literal devil is because he’s a devoted single dad, making it clear Caine is, in fact, capable of human emotion. Caine I’m good at two things: 1. Raising my daughter to be strong and independent. 2. My job. When my new assistant walks into the office, I become good at ignoring her. She’s sassy. Smart. Beautiful. Much younger and off-limits for more reasons than I can count. That doesn’t mean I want her any less. She hates me—but as each day goes by, it’s harder and harder to remember why I hate her too. Grab Your Copy!   https://books2read.com/MineToKeepNM     Meet Natasha Madison: When her nose isn’t buried in a book, or her fingers flying across a keyboard writing, she’s in the kitchen creating gourmet meals. You can find her, in four inch heels no less, in the car chauffeuring kids, or possibly with her husband scheduling his business trips. It’s a good thing her characters do what she says, because even her Labrador doesn’t listen to her… Keep up with Natasha Madison and subscribe to her newsletter https://www.natashamadisonauthor.com/ To learn more about Natasha Madison & her books, visit here!     Connect with Natasha Madison: https://www.natashamadisonauthor.com/contact-me    

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Sassy Southern Books Blog Book Review

  Title: Outlawed Trilogy: The Wicked West #3 Author: Candice Wright Genre: Dark Romance Tropes: Reverse Harem, Morally Grey Character...