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May I introduce: Carla Caruso "Pretty Famous" #HarperCollins



Pretty Famous
by Carla Caruso
 
 
 
Blurb:
A dark secret from Hollywood’s Golden Age. A possible prince-in-hiding. Astonvale’s about to implode...
Professional organiser Celeste Pretty swore she’d never work with uber-blonde interior designer Imogen Karmel again, but then she’s presented with a project she can’t refuse.
The prestigious Astonvale College is celebrating its centenary and needs the pair to ensure the festivities go off without a hitch.
As Celeste sets to work in a flurry of activity — in between organising her own engagement party — she finds herself blowing away the cobwebs on a sixty-year-old secret.
Meanwhile, Imogen becomes enamoured with a substitute teacher, Hudson Addison, who may or may not be a royal in hiding. And there’s nothing Imogen dreams of more than becoming a princess. Will all be revealed on party night?
 
 
 
 
 
Author bio:
Carla Caruso was born in Adelaide, Australia, and only ‘escaped’ for three years to work as a magazine journalist and stylist in Sydney. Previously, she was a gossip columnist and fashion editor at Adelaide’s daily newspaper, The Advertiser. She has since freelanced for titles including Woman’s Day and Shop Til You Drop. These days, she plays mum to twin lads Alessio and Sebastian with hubby James.
 
Author links:
Visit www.carlacaruso.com.au, her blog www.theunitalianwife.com, ‘Carla Caruso Author’ on Facebook, or @CarlaCaruso79 on Twitter.
 
Buy link:
http://www.harpercollins.com.au/9781460704127/pretty-famous-an-astonvale-novel
 
 
 
 
 
Excerpt:
The path behind the building was narrow, even more weed-ridden, and rubbish-strewn. Like the dark underbelly of Astonvale College. It was obviously a space the school council had forgotten about as they busied themselves with approving new computer labs and design and technology classrooms. That was until the centenary celebrations and a chance to link to Arnold Foxling had rushed the theatre back into their focus. Imogen had only gotten a quarter of the way in when she decided enough was enough. It was time to turn back. Creative inspiration wasn’t about to strike back there anytime soon.
She spun around and screamed blue murder as a shadowy face suddenly filled her vision. Clumsily, she stepped back from the dark stranger, her hip hitting a metal drum. Pain shot through her. A hand gripped her arm before she lost her footing, its owner’s features, all at once, illuminated by a shaft of sunlight.
Oh my. Imogen drew in a sharp breath, immediately forgetting about the throbbing in her hip. The stranger was male. A very attractive male. Really something else, and she’d had her share of chiselled hunks in her time. He had eyes as cobalt-blue as the Mediterranean, cropped light brown hair tinged with blonde, and the perfect shadow of sexy stubble. She couldn’t feel a wedding band against her skin, his fingers still warm on her arm. She was never this lucky. Unless she’d actually fallen, hit her head, and was now hallucinating.
‘Sorry to scare you,’ the stranger said in an accent she couldn’t quite pin down. ‘I wasn’t expecting anyone to be lurking around here.’
He had a hint of laughter in his eyes. She tried to claw back her composure while imagining dirt streaked across her cheek. ‘Neither was I. What’s your excuse for being here?’
Unfortunately, he lost his grasp on her arm to reach for something amid a low bunch of prickly weeds. He held up the found object. A football. ‘Retrieving this. And you?’
Imogen tossed her hair, grateful it didn’t get stuck on an errant metal pole or some such. ‘I’m working on an interior design project for the school.’ She arched an eyebrow. ‘And you look too old to be a student.’
For a moment, he looked down, tossing the ball from one hand to the other. ‘I’m a substitute phys. ed. teacher and, despite the football, coach the Year Elevens’ winning soccer team.’ His eyes met hers again. ‘They call me Mr Addison, but you can call me Hunter.’ Then he bent into a mock bow, despite the limited space. ‘EnchantĂ©e.’
Hold the phone. He spoke French? He was a substitute phys. ed. teacher… as in, on loan to the school for an unspecified amount of time? He’d even looked down when he’d said it! And the stubble could be part of a disguise. Plus, if a royal was to pick a phony name, certainly they’d choose one to do with a sport like hunting.
Could… Could the guy in front of her actually be Prince Alexis, in the flesh? Sure he was wearing a tracksuit and sneakers right now, but she could so see him in sash-adorned military attire. A living, breathing prince — who wasn’t school-aged — right across from her mini Georgian-style mansion. Was this fate?
‘And I’m Imogen Karmel.’ Her voice had transformed into a purr. She had to hold herself back from curtseying as she teased, ‘But I don’t mind being called Ms Karmel.’
He raised an eyebrow in question. ‘Ms Karmel?’
‘Yes?’
He leaned in and she forgot to breathe. ‘You’ve got a leaf in your hair.’ Then he reached to pluck it out — the most erotic millisecond she’d ever experienced — before he turned to walk back in the direction he’d come, the football wedged under his arm. Not even a goodbye. Maybe he’d seen in her eyes she’d guessed his little secret? She clattered after him but her heels were a disadvantage.
 

Get hooked on "New Beginnings" 29/04/15 #MFRWHook #romance #99cents

 
 Happy "Book Hook" Day
Let's have some "New Beginnings"
 
 
 
  
 
"New Beginnings" is set in Australia, in the wonderful State Tasmania.    

 

   
 
I hope you get hooked by this Snippet
 
Blurb:
Twenty-two-year-old Sophie Levesque has been guardian to eight-year-old sister Mia since their mother’s death a few years ago. Luck comes their way when they inherit a small house in Hobart. Problem is though, they don’t know or have never heard of Clara Bellinger, the testator, and Sophie is afraid it’s all been a mistake.
As Mia settles well into her new school and life in general, Sophie is not only occupied by her search of what connected her to Clara, but also her new studies and the two men, who suddenly have become part of her daily life - Mark O’Connor, the lawyer representing Clara’s estate, and Zach, the hunk from across the road.
 
 
Today's hook :-)

Sophie stared at the attorney, waiting for some answers. She and her sister, Mia, had been quietly sitting in Mr. O’Connor’s office for more than half an hour, and had learnt about the details of their inheritance.

“Who?”

“Clara Catherine Bellinger.”

“Who is she?” Mia asked.

Startled by the subtle sound of the clock chiming across the road, Sophie’s gaze turned to the window, where she saw the post office building across the road. It looked impressive and old. Surely, an old place like this would have its own ghosts — after all, Hobart was renowned for its lively spirits.

Her younger sister’s gentle touch on her arm reminded her she hadn’t answered the question, yet. “I wouldn’t have a clue.”

 

 
only 99cents
 
 
4 Stars:
An interesting introduction to these two sisters. Their relationship is gorgeous, and they care for each other fiercely. Set in Southern Tasmania, what a wonderful place to start a whole new life and find out just how your life got to be the way it was and begin to heal. I enjoyed the story and the setting very much.
 
4 Stars:
This was a very enjoyable read and it left me wanting just a little bit more. I highly recommend it.
 
4 Stars:
Sophie and Mark are an irresistible match from the beginning. While getting closer and connected to them individually as the story progressed, I couldn't help but want them to be together. This author has a way of endearing her characters and it is easy to fall in love with them. An intriguing story with emotion, love and hope. A very enjoyable read! I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.

 
 
 
 

Release Blitz for "Seeker" by @AReeceAuthor

Seeker Banner Seeker 
  Synopsis
Ally Moran has always just known about things—things she shouldn’t really be able to know…
Suddenly when she starts having vivid visions about a former friend who is in desperate trouble, the adults in her life think she might hold the key to an ancient mystery.
Jack Ruiz has a troubled past, but is trying to make a fresh start at a new high school…
He just wants to keep his head down and graduate, hopefully before he turns 20. The last thing he needs is to get involved with a feisty redhead and her psychic visions.
While Jack valiantly attempts to keep Ally at arm’s length, she is equally determined to be a part of his life. Who will win this battle of wills?
More importantly…
Can this unlikely couple work together to find answers to Ally’s visions before someone gets killed?

unnamed

Buy Links

AMAZON * AMAZON UK

About the author
Amy  
Amy Reece lives in Albuquerque, NM, with her husband and family. She loves to read and travel and has an unhealthy addiction to dogs. She loves wine and friends, in that order. Stay tuned for the rest of The Seeker Series, coming Summer and Fall 2015.

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"Love Always, Damian" by D.Nichole King ~~Cover Reveal ~~ @dNicholeKing




 
Love Always, Damian by D. Nichole King
(Love Always #2)
Published by: Limitless Publishing
Publication date: May 26th 2015
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:
They say time heals all wounds.

What a load of bull. It's been four years, and Kate's voice still echoes in my mind.

Every. Damn. Day. 
I numb her memory when it taunts me. In college, I drown her out with booze and easy lays. I can't do what she asked.

 I can't let her go.
Not even when Lia shows up, freaking ripping what's left of me to shreds. Caring about someone isn't worth the deadness that follows after they're gone. I didn't ask for this. Didn't ask for her.

And I sure as hell didn't plan to miss her when she walked out of my front door.

Now, if I want to keep her, I have to straighten myself out and earn her. I can't screw this up.

Because if I do, I'll lose more than just Lia.

I'll lose my life.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23691093-love-always-damian

Purchase book 1: http://www.amazon.com/Love-Always-Kate-Book-ebook/dp/B00JGWV3WW/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8



AUTHOR BIO:
Born and raised in Iowa, d. Nichole King writes her stories close to home. There's nothing like small-town Midwest scenery to create the perfect backdrop for an amazing tale.

She wrote her first book in junior high and loved every second of it. However, she couldn't bring herself to share her passion with anyone. She packed it away until one day, with the encouragement of her husband, she sat down at the computer and began to type. Now, she can't stop.

When not writing, d. is usually curled up with a book, scrapbooking, or doing yet another load of laundry.

Along with her incredible husband, she lives in small-town Iowa with her four adorable children and their dog, Peaches.

"A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. A man who never reads lives only one." --George R. R. Martin, A Dance with Dragons

Author links:
https://twitter.com/dNicholeKing
http://www.dnicholeking.com/
https://www.facebook.com/authordnicholeking?ref=hl
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7762889.D_Nichole_King


 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#MusicMonday: Falco "Coming Home (Jeanny Part III)"


May I introduce: Kristy Centeno "Keeper of the Innocents" #TeamLimitless @KrissyGirl122

 
 

 
Keeper of the Innocents
by Kristy Centeno 
 
 
 
Book Blurb: 
Demi Redding has used her powers to vanquish demons for years, but when one shows up next door she will be forced to set both her experience and instincts aside to battle a war that has nothing to do with magic, and everything to do with matters of the heart.
As a Keeper of the Innocents, Demi's load as a guardian reduces with only one charge to take on at a time. However, when her new foe proves to be a force she can neither see nor find, she has no choice but to doubt the so-called good intentions of the stranger one door down.
Rhyzel Connor is not your average neighbor by any means. The red specks of color in his green eyes alone sets him apart and his demonic heritage makes him an easy target. Because of who he is he can't afford a mistake that will result in his demise, but the fact that he knows way too much about Demi quickly raises the suspicion veil over him.
There is a mission he must complete, and secrets he must fight hard to keep, but the biggest hardship he must face will be forfeiting his life in order to save Demi's.
 
Genre: YA/Paranormal
Series: Keeper Witches # 2
Length: 276 pages
Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC
Date Published: July 6, 2014
 
Short Description:
Demi is a witch on a mission.
Rhyzel is a half demon on the run.
When their worlds collide, Demi must come to terms with the fact that he might not be as dangerous as she thought. Or as innocent as she wants him to be.
 
Book Link:
Buy Links:
Book Trailer:
 
 
Teaser Excerpt:
Everything happened so fast I couldn't even react. Stunned, I just stood there for a moment trying to size up my attacker. Before I even glanced up to look at his face I could tell something was off with him, but because of my nervousness, it was hard to tell for sure. He'd come out of nowhere, and if he intended to kill me, I was easy prey.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" a deeply masculine voice growled at me. Fortunately, that same voice helped break me out of my stupor. 
I was prepared to see some form of evil glaring down at me, but what I found when I glanced up was definitely not what I was expecting. The handsome stranger staring at me was hot. Not just your average Joe kind of hot. No. This was like the kind of hot that makes a girl want to sin in ways she'd never done before.
His pale skin, tousled, bronze colored hair, and full lips were striking to look at, but his eyes left me completely speechless.
Perfectly round green eyes stared back at me and though they were gorgeous all on their own, it was the few specks of red in his irises that I found beautiful and so unusual. I was left with my mouth hanging open. I'd never seen eyes that color before and no matter how many times my brain yelled at me to look away, I just couldn't. I was drawn to him. To his unique eyes. To the mystery that shrouded him.
"Are you deaf?" the tone of his voice rose a little more.
"No…no. I-I…was just—" My speech was impaired by his handsomeness and I felt stupid. It wasn't like he was the first cute guy I'd ever seen. As a matter of fact, I'd broken up with my boyfriend two months ago and he'd been the cutest guy I'd ever seen. Now that this stranger was standing in front of me, I wasn't so sure anymore. 
 
 

 
About the author:
Kristy Centeno is an author of paranormal romance, young adult, new adult, horror, and contemporary romance.
She has always had a passion for books and after years of being an avid reader, she decided to transform her desire to write into a reality and thus, her first novel was born. In her journey to create memorable reads, she has delved into several genres, creating fictional characters meant to entice readers and captivate the mind.
She is currently working on finishing off the Keeper Witches series among other projects, which include sequels to her published work. When she's not busy taking care of her five children or holding down the fort, she finds time to sit and do what she loves the most: writing.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
~~~~ * ~~~~ Book one is available for free at Amazon ~~~~ * ~~~~
 
 
Book Blurb:
Bryn McCaskey is young, naĂŻve, and can talk to ghosts...
Like her mother and grandmother, Bryn comes from a breed of witches called The Keepers of the Lost Souls. Their main purpose is to guard those spirits who are permanently or temporarily grounded in the world of the living. Handling supernatural creatures is something which comes naturally to Bryn, however, dealing with people is a whole different story.
As her 18th birthday approaches it's time for her to take on her first assignment. Bryn is forced to confront her inability to communicate with others in an effort to save the one soul that can mean the difference between life and death for mankind.
Johnny Shaw is a lost soul with a personal vendetta against witches...
A vendetta he has carried on even after death. As much as he hate's them he must join forces with a keeper witch, in order to stop a century old threat. When fate brings them together, not only will they be forced to learn how to work as a team, but they will have to depend on each other to stop an evil witch carrying a six hundred year grudge!
 

Get hooked on "Love Will Find You" 22/04/15 #MFRWHook #romance #freebook

 
 Happy "Book Hook" Day
I thought I post a few hooks of "Love Will Find You",
 the first book in the Australian Sports Stars series,
which is currently still free on Amazon.
 
 
  
 
"Love Will Find You" is set in Australia, a small coastal town in
 New South Wales as well as in Melbourne.

 
   
 
I hope you get hooked by this Snippet
 
Blurb:
After his father’s heart attack, Australian Football League player Tyson Gaspaldi takes his parents on holiday to a small place at the New South Wales coast.
One morning, following a surfing session, he comes across a crying woman on the beach. Everything about her intrigues him, and he can’t walk away. She’s not only sexy and humble, but, as he soon finds out, vulnerable as well.
It’s only been a few months since Katie Cassidy lost her sister in a car accident.
Still overwhelmed by the loss, a chance encounter on the beach with an attractive stranger awakens unexpected emotions inside her. She’s instantly drawn to his caring nature, but also his looks.
However, Tyson’s past quickly catches up with them, causing Katie’s childhood demons to return, and the road to romance becomes anything but smooth.
 
 
Today's hook :-)

With one final hiccupping sob, she picked up her jacket from the sand and walked across the dunes towards the parking lot. For the first time since Paige’s death, she experienced a sense of joy. It had only been a couple of minutes that she’d talked to Ty, a stranger, but she liked him. Wiping the last tears from her face, she walked to her car, recalling those chocolate brown eyes beneath his black lashes and the straight line of brow. But it’d been his smile that’d been so contagious. His teeth were even and white, in a nice contrast with his olive skin. Anticipation rushed through her as she contemplated returning the next day. In her mind, she imagined touching his body. He’d looked so damn sexy in his wet suit, unzipped down to just below the navel, revealing a muscular chest and powerful shoulders. She’d certainly been attracted to his tall, athletic physique. And she liked the way his dark, damp hair had started to curl slightly around his face.

Katie walked towards her car across the street when she heard her mother’s voice. “Here you are, love.”

 
~~ FREE  ~~
 
 
4 Stars:
I really enjoyed this book. The main characters popped off the pages right from the start and the author sprinkled a fun and quirky set of secondary characters throughout.  
 
4 Stars: 
If you’re looking for a character-led romantic read with realistic emotion, then I can definitely recommend Love Will Find You.

Spring Into Love Cover Reveal - 11 Hot Contemporary Romances



Spring Into Love: 11 Hot Contemporary Romances
From SENSUAL to SPICY this boxed set of ELEVEN contemporary romances includes BESTSELLING and AWARD-WINNING and USA TODAY multi-published authors.

If you like variety in your books these ELEVEN authors provide your heart’s desire from SWEET and FUNNY to DEADLY and SEXY

SPRING INTO LOVE will warm your heart and your bed. This is a limited time offer, so grab your set today! ONLY 99c!

~~Purchase Links~~
;
Barnes & Noble: Coming Soon 

~~Books Included~~
Happy Endings - Chantel Rhondeau
;
Tasting Los Angeles- Kimmie Easley
Taming Romeo - Rachelle Ayala
Consolation Prize - Abbie St. Claire
Sweet Ride! - Bonnie Edwards
Liveon ~ No Evil - Stacy Eaton
Everybody's After Love - Lyssa Layne
;
Betrayed - Jade Kerrion
Finding Forever- Michele Shriver
Love Unleashed - Marcia James
Kiss Me, Dancer - Alicia & Roy Street
;




~~Purchase Links~~

May I introduce: Stacy Juba "Twenty-Five Years Ago Today"

 
 "Twenty-Five Years Ago Today"
by Stacy Juba
 
 
 
Twenty-Five Years Ago Today:
Should we dig for the truth when Pandora's Box is a coffin of buried secrets? For twenty-five years, Diana Ferguson's killer has gotten away with murder. When rookie obit writer and newsroom editorial assistant Kris Langley investigates the cold case of the artistic young cocktail waitress who was obsessed with Greek and Roman mythology, not only does she fall in love with Diana's sexy nephew, but she must also fight to stay off the obituary page herself. A unique blend of literary mystery, cozy mystery, and romantic suspense. Get in on the secret - join thousands of readers in discovering who killed Diana Ferguson.
 
 
Bio:
Stacy Juba loves to write stories about Characters at a Crossroads: individuals who are finding themselves and getting on the right life path after overcoming obstacles. She has made numerous bestseller lists including GalleyCat's Barnes & Noble Bestsellers and GalleyCat's Mystery and Thriller Bestsellers. Stacy has written about reality TV contestants targeted by a killer, an obit writer investigating a cold case, teen psychics who control minds, twin high school hockey stars battling on the ice, and teddy bears learning to raise the U.S. flag. She has had a book ranked as #5 in the Nook Store and #30 on the Amazon Kindle Paid List. Stacy also offers the affordable Crossroads Editing Service for writers and teaches online writing and book promotion classes. Browse her website for more information on her mystery, romance, and contemporary fiction books for adults, teens and children.
 
 
Buy links:
 
Author links:
 
Excerpt:
Cheryl came up behind Kris.  Her voice sounded sad and tired.  "Please don't tell my mother too much, even if you're making progress.  I don't want to raise her hopes."
Kris glanced back at Irene, who hunched on the couch, turning the locket over in her hand.  "I'll be careful with what I say.  My aunt would've been eager, too."
"How was your cousin killed?"   
"She was strangled, kidnapped by a neighbor while walking alone.  We were  twelve."
Cheryl heaved a sigh.  "I'm sorry.  I remember reading about that.  It happened locally, didn't it?"
"Yes."
"I know you're a terrific writer.  I couldn't have been happier with the business story.  I'm just concerned about my mother."
"I understand," Kris said.  "I won't let you down."
She trudged out to her car and brushed off her windshield.  She waited behind the steering wheel as the defroster warmed the interior. Not knowing Diana's whereabouts must have tormented Irene.  Kris's family had agonized over Nicole's disappearance.  As one day blended into the next, Nicole had seemed further and further away. 
Finding her was worse.
Kris had learned a new phrase that May, a litany that surged back into her mind, drumming to the beat of the windshield wipers.  If only.
If only it hadn't rained the afternoon Nicole had disappeared.
If only she hadn't climbed into the car with Randolph Coltraine.
If only Aunt Susan had been home when Nicole called for a ride.
Kris swallowed the metallic taste in her mouth.  If only I didn't trick her.
She chose the long route home, driving fast. She hadn't driven in New York and had forgotten the thrill of a climbing speedometer.  Her first week back, she'd landed a speeding ticket. 
  Kris skidded onto the Fremont State College campus, her tires kicking up tufts of snow.  She passed dorms, tennis courts and the library before parking in front of the deserted baseball field.  White trees cast shapeless shadows across the broad expanse of snow.
A chunk of ice slid off the roof, hitting the front window.  Kris jumped, her hand to her heart.   
"No one's out there," she murmured, gazing into the woods.  "Not now."
But once.
Beyond those trees, Diana had lain dead. 
Police had crowded the scene, their search over.
 
 
 
 

Get hooked on "Love Will Find You" 15/04/15 #MFRWHook #romance #freebook

 
 Happy "Book Hook" Day
I thought I post a few hooks of "Love Will Find You",
 the first book in the Australian Sports Stars series,
which is currently still free on Amazon.
 
 
  
 
"Love Will Find You" is set in Australia, a small coastal town in
 New South Wales as well as in Melbourne.

 
   
 
I hope you get hooked by this Snippet
 
Blurb:
After his father’s heart attack, Australian Football League player Tyson Gaspaldi takes his parents on holiday to a small place at the New South Wales coast.
One morning, following a surfing session, he comes across a crying woman on the beach. Everything about her intrigues him, and he can’t walk away. She’s not only sexy and humble, but, as he soon finds out, vulnerable as well.
It’s only been a few months since Katie Cassidy lost her sister in a car accident.
Still overwhelmed by the loss, a chance encounter on the beach with an attractive stranger awakens unexpected emotions inside her. She’s instantly drawn to his caring nature, but also his looks.
However, Tyson’s past quickly catches up with them, causing Katie’s childhood demons to return, and the road to romance becomes anything but smooth.
 
 
Today's hook :-)
“Are you okay?” he asked, scratching his head.
Her mouth curved into a tentative smile. “Yes, I am.”
He frowned. “Was that sarcasm in response to a stupid question?”
“Yes, it was.”
Damn, she had a gorgeous smile that made his stomach tighten. She didn’t offer more. After a brief, but silent moment, he offered her his hand. “Tyson.”
She ignored his hand. “Nice meeting you, Tyson.”
He chuckled. “This is where you tell me your name.”
She let out a sigh as she looked away from him. It was a fine line he was walking. He was well aware of it. More than anything else, he wanted to help her. It was in his nature. She was hurt, and it seemed she was alone as well.
“Apologies, I didn’t mean to come on to you. But I’ve never been good with going past a girl who cries.”
“Does that happen often?” she asked as she turned back to him.
“Actually, no.” He laughed. “Only with my little niece.”
A tiny smile appeared on her face. “How old is she?”
Raising an eyebrow, he asked, “My niece? Turned four just a few days ago.”
She stared at him as he waited for her next question. Yet, it never came.
“I’m kinda getting cold here,” he said after a long moment. “Could I invite you for a coffee or tea?”
“No, but thank you for the offer. And thank you for caring.”
“Will you be here again tomorrow?”
A small sigh escaped her lips, and she shrugged slightly.
“Not sure.” He nodded and stood.
“It’s Katie,” she said as she stood as well. Ty’s heart skipped a beat. “Nice meeting you, Katie.”
~~ FREE  ~~
 
 
4 Stars:
I really enjoyed this book. The main characters popped off the pages right from the start and the author sprinkled a fun and quirky set of secondary characters throughout.  
 
4 Stars: 
If you’re looking for a character-led romantic read with realistic emotion, then I can definitely recommend Love Will Find You.

May I introduce: Jacquie Biggar "The Rebel's Redemption" #MFRWAuthors

  "The Rebel's Redemption"
by Jacquie Biggar
  
 

 

Blurb
Annie Campbell's predictable and cozy life gets turned on its side when her son's prodigal father returns to town. Then an old enemy shows up and the outcome will not only place her in danger, but their son as well.

Jared Martin left Tidal Falls a hotheaded youth, and has seen his share of violence in the eight years he's served Uncle Sam. Floundering, he returns to his hometown to regain his bearings, bitter and disillusioned.

Then he finds out he's a father.

When an old enemy follows and causes mayhem in the small town, can Jared overcome the odds to protect the woman he's always loved and the child he never knew, or will it be too late?

 
Buy Link

 
Bio:
Jacquie lives in paradise along the west coast of Canada with her husband, daughter, and grandson. Loves reading, writing, and flower gardening. Spoils her German shepherd, Annie and calico cat, Harley.
And can't function without coffee.

You can find out more about Jacquie and her books:
http://jacquiebiggar.com
Excerpt:
Jared's world narrowed down to the little black barrel of the gun pointed at his chest. Funny, in all the years of being in the SEAL teams he'd never been in this situation. Not to say he hadn't dodged his share of bullets. It's just they'd always erupted like a hailstorm, out of nowhere. This was somewhere. The back alley of his mother's freaking café in freaking America to be exact. What the hell?
If he wasn't so pissed off at himself for getting into this situation, he might have laughed. Eight years overseas off and on, and he was going to get shot in his own backyard. How's that for ironic?
"Look man, why don't we talk about this?" Jared forced his gaze to focus on Sergei's steely gaze instead of the muzzle of the semi-automatic.
"The time for talk is past," the Russian said. "You ignored my advice and instead made a fool out of me with that stupid trick you performed."
"Advice? You call beating the livin' shit out of me, advice?" Jared ground his teeth together, and fought to keep a level tone. "You can't blame a guy for wanting to retaliate." A crash by the garbage caused both men to crouch into a fight stance. A tabby cat raced away. Jared straightened, his heart knocking against his ribcage, as desperate to escape this mess as the animal. He needed to defuse the situation before someone came upon them; please God not his mom.
"Okay, you're right. I shouldn't have set off alarms or caused those slots to pay out. But seriously dude, you can't go around acting all KGB, we're in the good old USA now." Jared kept a careful eye on the guy's trigger finger and cursed his loose tongue. What part of defuse couldn't he figure out?
Sergei tipped his felt hat back on his bald head like an old time gunslinger. His hand holding the gun never wavered. "You have big mouth."
Yeah, I've heard that a time or ten.
"Why don't we handle this like two adults? I'll call your boss, tell him I screwed up and it'll never happen again…" There was no doubt on that, if he ever went near a casino again he'd kick his own ass. "And then you can go back to ruling your little kingdom far, far, away."
Click.
The sound of the hammer cocking reverberated with frightening clarity in the small alley. There wasn't even anywhere for him to take cover. The garbage can was at least ten feet away. Jared's jaw cramped from the tension. His skin crawled as if overrun with fire ants. Where was his team when he needed them?
He'd just decided the only alternative was to rush the son-of-a-bitch when the alley erupted with the screams and laughter of children. Two kids rounded the corner at full speed on pedal bikes, racing each other to an imaginary finish line.
Fuck.
Sergei seized the opportunity, stepped between the bicycles and scooped the kids off their seats. The bikes, wheels still turning, fell to the ground in front of him creating a barrier. The kids—God, it was Chris and little Jessica—shrieked until Sergei shook them, then they froze, eyes wide and frightened, hanging under his arms like rag dolls.
"Let them go, you motherfu…" Jared's voice came out low and lethal. Every muscle in his body prepared itself for the moment of attack. His breathing slowed until he could count each heartbeat as the blood coursed through his veins. Waiting. Watching.
Barnikov laughed. Laughed. The prick.
"Now it my turn to play game." Jared made a slight move and Sergei's smile flat-lined. He dropped Jessica to the ground in front of him but kept his forearm wrapped around her neck. The gun nestled the side of her head pointed straight at Chris dangling from his other arm. "Move and I shoot." He shuffled the trio back towards the mouth of the alley. "We'll talk again, my friend."
And then he disappeared around the corner, leaving nothing but the slowly turning tire on a bike and Jared's heart as it shattered.