Sunday, November 25, 2018

Grand Finale Book Tour ~ A Cowboy's Christmas Proposal by Cathy McDavid

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
A Cowboy's Christmas Proposal
By Cathy McDavid

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author


I’m so thrilled it’s finally here — my first Harlequin Heartwarming! After thirty books for Harlequin Western, I made the move to Heartwarming when my line closed last year, and I couldn’t be happier. To celebrate the release of A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PROPOSAL, I have all kinds of exciting things planned, including a blog tour, fun interaction, and a great giveaway...





Where do you get your ideas?



Yeah, it’s a question writers get asked all the time. I wish I had something glib and interesting and fun to say in response instead of, “The internet or the news or while walking my dog,” all which happen to be the truth. That is, until recently…





HEARING WHAT SOUNDED like a hammer banging against metal, Molly O’Malley tossed the covers aside and sat bolt upright. Her sister had beaten her to the shower. Again. Now she’d be late getting downstairs—the last thing she wanted today of all days. After endless planning, preparation and backbreaking labor, Sweetheart Ranch was finally opening for business.


Molly pushed herself out of bed, excitement and nervousness replacing the fog of sleep. Grabbing her flannel robe hanging from the bedpost, she padded to the closet, every third floorboard creaking in angry protest. A single tug on the antique glass knob and the closet door glided open. Thank goodness. It just as often stuck and refused to budge.





What is it about your book that makes it stand out in this competitive genre?



I don’t think there are too many romance books with a cowboy-themed wedding ranch. At least, I haven’t seen any 😊 Neither have I come across a book with a cowboy wedding officiant for the hero. I hope that makes A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAL PROPOSAL a little unique and worth a look.





Research for A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PROPOSAL



Researching is part of a writer’s job. Most of the time it’s fun, we tend to write about what interests us so we find the research fascinating. It was no different for me when it came to finding interesting facts about weddings for my November release, A COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS PROPOSAL. I learned all kinds of wedding history and trivia from the wacky to the wonderful. And I actually got to use some of it in my book!...



Remembrancy - Review


"Take a type-A woman intent on making the new family wedding planning business a success and throw in an unexpected elopement of one member of said family wedding planning business and a substitute officiator with three rambunctious children, and the recipe for entertainment is delicious! Oh, and did I mention this is all during the busy holiday season?"





"I really can't seem to get enough of the cowboy and rancher romance stories lately. This story gets bonus points for taking place during the Christmas season, because I also can't get enough of the Christmas romances at this time of year. This book fit both perfectly."




“What’s this?” With her free hand, Molly tore off the note and started reading. The next instant, her fingers went slack, and she nearly dropped the pot. “I don’t believe it!”


“What’s wrong?” Bridget glanced up from sprinkling flour onto a rolling mat.


“Grandma’s gone.” The words fell from Molly’s mouth in a shocked whisper.


“Where? The café?”


“Try the Grand Canyon and then Nevada. In Homer’s RV.” Molly gaped at her sister, alarm battling with disbelief. “They’ve eloped. They’re getting married in Reno and then taking a monthlong road trip.”



Wishful Endings - Guest Post


An Author's Print Copies



I’m lucky that my publisher sends me lots of copies of my books. Not only do I receive boxes of my current release, but I also get more boxes when my previous titles are re-released. This has happened as many as three different times, giving me multiple versions of the book. Which raises the question, what’s a person to do with all these free print book?...



E-Romance News - Excerpt

She was halfway to the girl when the arched doorway separating the parlor from the foyer and the chapel was filled by a pair of broad shoulders, a tall lanky form and a dark brown Stetson.


Molly came to a halt. She’d seen plenty of attractive cowboys since moving to Mustang Valley, but this one in his pressed jeans and Western-cut suede coat rated right up there. The fact that he balanced a third child in his left arm, this one a toddler, diminished none of his good looks.





"A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal is a really sweet romance with some fun characters and a cute story line. I love the idea of Sweetheart Ranch. I’m not sure I’d run a wedding venue…too much stress…but those cabins are just perfect. . . . Clean romance lovers will enjoy getting to know these characters and this charming town."



Colorimetry - Excerpt


“NO OFFENSE, BUT you don’t look like a minister.”


Owen didn’t blame Molly for doubting him. He wasn’t really a minister. And his three intent-on-misbehaving offspring were hardly aiding his image.


“I got ordained online,” he explained. “A buddy asked me to officiate his wedding a few months ago. We had this bet and, well...”


“Is that even a real thing? Getting ordained online?”


He corralled his children closer. They’d attempted to wander off in three different directions, and the room had far too many breakables for his comfort level. “I guarantee you, I can legally marry people. In Arizona, at least.”





"This is a novel centered round family and how sometimes, in order to find the tomorrow [you're] wanting most in your life - you have to be willing to take risks. Without risking your heart, you lose the chance to find someone who is your rightful match and without being willing to go outside your comfort zones - sometimes you miss opportunities for self-growth."





"This was a really cute story. . . . This book is one you don't want to pass up. It has a make you feel good story with a wonderful cast of characters. This story will hit you right in the heart. Plus you can't go wrong with the holiday season working it's magic."





"An adorably sweet family-oriented romance! She’s too uptight, he’s too lackadaisical … but together, they shine! In a story of trying to pick up the pieces of a life that hasn’t quite worked out the way you planned, two people meet and fall in love in less than ideal circumstances. . . . The characters were well developed, the plot was steady and filled with cuteness and the story was overall a joy to read!"



Splashes of Joy - Review


"...this is a sweet story, one that you will sure want to read for your own enjoyment. It takes place during the Christmas holidays so it’s a fun and exciting story to read at this time of the year. I encourage you to pick up a copy for your own entertainment!"




I Am A Reader - Guest Post


Believing in Santa Clause



Who here used to believe in Santa Clause as a child? Okay, spoiler alert, if you still do believe in him, don’t read the rest of this post 😊



When I was child, I believed in Santa Clause with an unshakeable conviction…up until I was nine years old when my mother broke the news to me. Her reasoning, she told me at the time, was she feared the other kids at school would tell me, and I’d be devastated. News flash, Mom. I was devastated anyway. Didn’t matter that you were to the one to crush my happy illusion...



Book by Book - Spotlight



"A Cowboy's Christmas Proposal by Cathy McDavid is an absolute lovely read. . . . You do not want to miss this great Christmas read."





Molly immediately brightened. “Nora! Please tell me you’re here to rescue us.”


“What else would get me out of bed at this ungodly hour?”


Was eight forty-five an ungodly hour? Owen wondered. Apparently for Nora it was.


“I assume this is Homer’s great-nephew.” Removing her coat, she gave him careful consideration. “He didn’t mention you were easy on the eyes.”


Owen grinned. “He didn’t mention you were, either.”


Her dour countenance magically transformed into a delighted grin. “And charming to boot. I do believe this next month is going to be quite enjoyable.”





"A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal was a fun story. I really enjoyed the setting of the Sweetheart Ranch, a specialty wedding destination that had just opened as the book began. . . . The interactions between all of the characters in this story, including the children, felt very authentic."



Heidi Reads... - Excerpt


“Did Grandma tell you all this?”


“She figured you’d be interested in him and wanted me to tell you.”


“Interested in him?” Molly feigned shock as if nothing could be further from the truth. “Whatever gave her that idea?”


The next second, Owen and his three kids strolled into the parlor. Molly went still, wishing she could disappear. How much of her and Nora’s conversation had he heard?


The last part of it, certainly, judging by the amused expression he wore.





"A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal is cute, endearing, witty, and sweet. Not to mention the sparks that sizzle between Molly and Owen. The chaos the author has written into this novel is palpable – throw in the holidays, a new business, the stress of weddings (sometimes more than one in a single day), three restless (and adorable) kids, and the absence of two intended key players…. not to mention the losing battle of trying desperately not to fall in love. (because who needs more chaos?) And yet, the tender moments gradually overshadow the chaos – much like in real life – and leave readers breathing a blissful sigh of relief. Looking forward to more visits to the Sweetheart Ranch!"


Don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already...


A Cowboy's Christmas Proposal

(The Sweetheart Ranch #1)

By Cathy McDavid

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages

November 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming



At a magical time of year…



Can a cowboy help falling in love?



For single dad Owen Caufield, living and working at Sweetheart Ranch for a month is the perfect change of pace. While the cowboy turned wedding officiant can now spend more time with his children, Molly O’Malley, his new boss, is less thrilled. A wedding ranch isn’t the best place for three rambunctious youngsters. But amid the chaos—and the coming holidays—it may be the best place to fall in love…





About the Author


In the third grade, NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Cathy McDavid made it her goal to read every Black Stallion book ever written. Who knew such an illustrious ambition would eventually lead to a lifelong love of all things western and a career writing contemporary romances for Harlequin? With over 1.2 million books sold, Cathy is also a member of the prestigious Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll.


An “almost” Arizona native, she’s married to her own real-life sweetheart, whom she re-met a few years ago at a high school reunion. Her grown twins are out on their own and finding their happily-ever-afters. In 2014, Cathy retired from the corporate world to write full-time. She now spends her days penning stories about good looking cowboys riding the range, busting a bronc, and sweeping gals off their feet. It a tough job, but she’s willing to make the sacrifice.


Tour Giveaway




1 winner will receive their choice of two previously published Christmas stories by Cathy McDavid (print or ebook, winner's choice), a small gift bag of promo bling, a holiday ornament, and a $10 Amazon Gift Card
US only
Ends November 23, 2018

Grab Our Button!

#LetterToMyHero - Visit Your Hero Flight Giveaway

#LetterToMyHero

SHARE A LETTER TO YOUR HERO AND WIN A FLIGHT ANYWHERE*



Is your hero far away? Wish you could surprise them with a visit? We want to make that wish come true! To celebrate the upcoming release of The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros, we want to send you to visit someone you love!
Entangled Publishing is proud to present the #LetterToMyHero Sweepstakes. To enter, simply follow these instructions:

  1. Follow @RebeccaYarros & @Entangled_Publishing on Instagram

  2. Share a letter to your hero on Instagram and tag @RebeccaYarros & @Entangled_Publishing and #LetterToMyHero

  3. Entries will be accepted until November 25, 2018
You will automatically be entered! Some entries will be featured on @Entangled_Publishing and @RebeccaYarros!

If your hero is somewhere you can’t visit, you can use the flight to go to the destination of your choice or opt for some close to home self-care.

*Maximum flight value is $1000. Flight must be booked by February 25, 2019. If you are unable to travel, we will provide a $1000 Gift Card for you to use on self-care. Must be 18 or over.

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Instagram. You understand that you are providing your information to Entangled Publishing and Rebecca Yarros and not to Instagram. By participating in this promotion you agree to a complete release of Instagram from any claims.

Saturday, November 24, 2018

Cover Reveal ~ The Preacher's Bride - Whiskey River Brides by Theresa Oliver


Author: Theresa Oliver
Title: The Preacher's Bride
Series: Whiskey River Brides, #4
Genre: Historical Romance
Release Date: February 23, 2019
Publisher: Hot Tree Publishing
Cover Designer: RMGraphX
 Add to TBR

Preorder now for half price!
Amazon links coming soon
She’s looking for companionship and dreams of love. He’s loved and lost, and isn’t looking for a replacement to fill his heart. Mia and Caleb discover that there are many types of love, but can they find it in each other or will they lose it forever?



Haunted by the ghosts of his past, Caleb Henley is in trouble. As the preacher of the congregation of Whiskey River, he finds himself with two small children alone, caring for his farm, and attending to the needs of his congregation a near impossibility. With no other options in sight, he decides to take a wife.



In financial trouble and lonely, Mia Flynn agrees to marry Caleb, knowing he only wants a housekeeper and a babysitter to care for his children and not a real wife. However, she hasn’t given up on the dream of falling in love one day. But can Caleb open his heart and let love in?



Join Mia, Caleb, and all your favorite citizens of Whiskey River as love takes the reins in this all-new romantic adventure!


Preorder now for half price!
Amazon links coming soon
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2ziTqNH 

 OTHER BOOKS IN THIS SERIES 




An educator, writer, mother, and free spirit, Theresa Oliver’s love affair with the written word has spanned decades. An Indiana native, Theresa began the foundation of her writing career as a child. Her love of reading, writing, and creative expression guided her to seek a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, News Editorial sequence, from the University of Tennessee at Martin; and then continued on to earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree, Early Childhood Education sequence, from Armstrong Atlantic State University. 

Her foundational experiences in childhood led her to want to create meaningful, positive experiences with reading and writing for future generations, and inspire the same love of creative expression that has been such a rewarding force behind her career and life. 

Theresa has dedicated her life to the world of writing and the creation of novels that span all levels and genres. First and foremost a mother, her greatest loves are her three beautiful boys, to whom she dedicates the success and longevity of her prolific career. Theresa currently resides in Kissimmee, Florida with her beloved husband and children.

Sign up for Theresa's newsletter HERE. 


Friday, November 23, 2018

Release Blitz ~ Tidings of Joy - A Holiday Romance by Shanna Hatfield


Title: Tidings of Joy
Author: Shanna Hatfield
Genre: Holiday Romance
Publication Date: November 23rd, 2018
Hosted by: Lady Amber’s PR

Blurb:
Will a donkey, an adorable puppy, and a big-hearted man
Prove tidings of Joy last beyond the holiday season?
Quiet and unassuming, Drew Miller is more than just a mail carrier in the small town of Faraday. A typical day on his route includes fetching cats out of trees, changing flat tires, and good-naturedly enduring the pranks of the octogenarian crowd. Unexpectedly, he rescues a lovely young woman in distress. Drew’s convinced she’d never make the tiny community her permanent home, but he’s determined to give her a reason to stay.

Among the brightest, happiest memories from Joy Cooke’s childhood are the days she spent with her grandparents in Faraday. When she inherits their home with a stipulation requiring her to live there for six months, she eagerly moves to the mountain town. Then a freak snow storm leaves her at the mercy of the mail carrier, a handsome man she’s spent weeks watching out her office window. Through his steadfast care, she learns the true meaning of giving and selfless love.

Can she overcome his reserved, shy manner and claim his heart?

With the help of a donkey named Pete and a puppy named Bacon, anything is possible in this sweet Christmas romance filled with laughter and heartwarming love from USA Today Bestselling author Shanna Hatfield.

˃˃˃ Read all four sweet romances in The Friendly Beasts of Faraday series!
* Scent of Cedar (Book 1) - A woman in need of a new beginning finds herself tormented by a camel and captivated by the town's bad boy. Can she overcome her fears to embrace a sweet holiday romance?

* Tidings of Joy (Book 2)- Only one woman can draw a shy mail carrier out of his shell, but it will take the help of her donkey and puppy to make it happen.

* Boughs of Holly (Book 3)- A free-spirited nurse winds up on a ranch with a stubborn cowboy and his matchmaking grandpa. Will love triumph over her need to roam?

* Wings of an Angel (Book 4) - Will a fun-loving teacher convince a woman sworn off romance to give love a second chance? He'll need a hand from her son and his furry, feathered friends.
  
Buy Link:
Scent of Cedar: https://amzn.to/2RUCHah
Tidings of Joy: https://amzn.to/2Ts3Ans




 USA Today Bestselling Author Shanna Hatfield writes character-driven romances with relatable heroes and heroines. Her historical westerns have been described as “reminiscent of the era captured by Bonanza and The Virginian” while her contemporary works have been called “laugh-out-loud funny, and a little heart-pumping sexy without being explicit in any way.”

Convinced everyone deserves a happy ending, this hopeless romantic is out to make it happen one story at a time. When she isn’t writing or indulging in chocolate (dark and decadent, please), Shanna hangs out with her husband, lovingly known as Captain Cavedweller.

Shanna is a member of Western Writers of America, Women Writing the West, Romance Writers of America, Sweet Romance Reads, Cowboy Kisses, and Pioneer Hearts.

Author Links:

Buy Link:
Scent of Cedar: https://amzn.to/2RUCHah
Tidings of Joy: https://amzn.to/2Ts3Ans




Blog Tour ~ The Christmas Layover - A Sweet Popular Romance by Robert Tate Miller



Meet the Author:

Robert Tate Miller was raised in the North Carolina mountain town of Hendersonville and began writing at an early age. He began his writing career with homespun essays of small town life that were published in such publications as Reader's Digest, The Christian Science Monitor and the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series. He moved to Los Angeles in the late 1980s and wrote hugely successful family-oriented telefilms for NBC, ABC Family and the Hallmark Channel. Robert lives in Northridge, CA..

Connect: Site | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads


About the Book:


The weather forecasters said the snowstorm would miss the eastern seaboard. They were wrong. When Ally Henderson’s flight from Southern California to finally marry her fiancé in New York City on Christmas gets diverted to the tiny Midwestern town of Bethlehem, she’s desperate to get back in the air and to the Big Apple. But with all the airports closed, she’s forced to rely on Midwestern hospitality to wait out the storm.

Living with a welcoming stranger is one way to spend a snowed-in Christmas, but when she meets the local diner owner, the kindhearted and surprisingly sexy Jake, sparks fly. Only, Ally’s a big-city girl with big-city dreams, and Jake will always be a Bethlehem boy.


Add to Goodreads



Excerpt:

Just do it, she thought. Kiss me. Why do you have to be such a gentleman when I really just want your lips on mine?

“Hey guys.” Ally looked over to see Tina standing on the edge of the porch, hugging her bathrobe tightly about her. Jake quickly stood up. A little too quickly, Ally decided.

“Oh hi,” Jake said. Terrible actor, Ally thought. He didn’t even try to play it off coolly. Ally wondered what would have happened if Tina hadn’t interrupted them. Curse my timing. Ally stood up on her own. Jake seemed too busy distancing himself from her to offer his hand.
“Hi sis,” Jake said. Ally noticed the curious smile on Tina’s face. It was clear that Jake’s sister knew full well she’d caught them in a compromising position.
“Hope I’m not interrupting anything,” Tina said.
“Oh, no!” Jake said much too quickly. “We were just finishing up Snowman Bob.” Ally was amused as Jake gestured to the snowman as if that might distract his sister from what she’d seen.

“Well, welcome back, Snowman Bob,” Tina said. “He looks especially robust this year. I’m sure that was Ally’s doing.”

“Yes,” Jake said. “She was a big help. Right, Ally?”

“I guess so,” Ally said. “I just packed on snow. Not a lot of skill involved.” She exchanged a furtive glance with Tina, and it was as if they could read each other’s minds. Jake’s acting funny, huh?

“Maddie’s going to be so excited,” Tina said. “She’s been jabbering about it for days. Kinda sad, though. Once she morphs into a poopy teenager, she’ll be too cool for Snowman Bob.”

“I’m sure I’ll be ready to retire him by then,” Jake said.

“So, Jake. I hear you’re going to have competition at the Great Christmas Cookie Bake-off tomorrow night,” Tina said. “Mom says Ally and Noel have an unbeatably delicious cookie entry.”

Jake shot a look at Ally. “I’m not really expecting competition.”

Ally gave him a playful punch on the arm. “You know what they say. An arrogant bug is a cocky roach.”

“Oh wow,” Jake said. “Now I’m an insect. Very nice, yoga lady.”


Ally looked at Tina. “Tina, is your brother always this impossible to deal with?”


“Pretty much,” Tina said.


“Well,” Ally said, “just so you know, Noel and I are in this to win.”


“Be warned, Ally,” Tina said. “Jake’s a pretty fair cookie-baker.”

“Not afraid at all,” Ally said. “We welcome the competition. With Peggy in our corner, we’re unbeatable.”

“Wow,” Jake said. “Can’t believe my own mother’s helping the enemy.” He shook his head in mock dismay. “All right then. I guess it’s on.”

“Yep,” Ally said. “On like Donkey Kong.”
“So, okay,” Tina said, “I’m freezing my bunions off, so I’m gonna go back inside.”

“Night,” Ally and Jake said in unison.
Tina turned back just before disappearing inside. “You can go back to your kiss now.”
After the door closed behind her, Ally and Jake exchanged a look. Ally relished the sheepish smile on his handsome face.

“Not sure what she’s talking about,” he said.

“No idea,” Ally said. The clock in the town hall tower started to peal.

“Well, I should get you back,” Jake said.


“Right,” Ally replied. “Don’t want to turn into a pumpkin. Night, Snowman Bob.” 

Giveaway:

  • $25 Amazon Gift Card
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Book Blitz ~ Cowboys for Christmas - A Holly Hills Anthology by Liz Talley, Kim Law & Terri Osburn


Cowboys for Christmas
Kim Law, Liz Talley, Terri Osburn
(A Holly Hills Anthology)
Publication date: November 19th 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
3 cowboys…2 weeks…1 wedding!
Claire, Georgia, and Mary Catherine couldn’t be more different, but they promised they would be there for one another no matter what. And when they all gather in Holly Hills, Texas, for Mary Catherine’s Christmas wedding, they’ll find they have one thing in common: hearts that are about to be branded—by unforgettable cowboys.
In “Love Me, Cowboy” by Terri Osburn, wallflower Claire would be more excited about the wedding if it didn’t mean running into Mary Catherine’s brother—the bull rider she once had a scorching one-night stand with…
Ivy League volleyball coach Georgia never wanted to see Holly Hills—or another cowboy—again. But a sexy veterinarian is making her rethink her vow to never marry a Texas man in “Kiss Me, Cowboy” by Liz Talley.
Claire and Georgia both think that Mary Catherine is getting hitched to the wrong man, despite

how perfect he is. And in “Marry Me, Cowboy” by Kim Law, a local rancher with a wild reputation gives Mary Catherine a glimpse of what might have been—and what could still be…
—
SNEAK PEEKS!
Love Me, Cowboy by Terri Osburn
Crossing the short distance to where he’d left his tools near the back of the truck, Tyler bent down and lifted with his left arm, only to have the box drop back to the floor with a crash. He gripped his left shoulder as his face contorted in pain.
“Tyler? What’s wrong?” Claire was afraid to touch his arm for fear of hurting him more. “Tell me what to do. I don’t know how to help.”
“It’s fine,” he said through a clenched jaw, then took several deep breaths, keeping his eyes closed. “I just forget sometimes.”
Claire caught herself taking deep breaths with him and had to make herself stop. “Forget what?” she asked.
Dropping his hand, Tyler opened his eyes and slowly lowered his shoulders. “The face wasn’t the only thing damaged in the accident. As I said at the Thirsty Cowboy the other night, my shoulder got torn up pretty bad, too. Doc has me in physical therapy and it’s mostly healed, but the weight of the toolbox was too much, I guess.”
He guessed? The man had taken years off her life with that reaction. The pain must have been excruciating to take his breath like that.
“Thank goodness you won’t be doing that anymore.”
“What do you mean?” he asked, working his shoulder up and down. “Picking up the toolbox? Not with that arm, I won’t.”
“Not the toolbox,” Claire said with a roll of her eyes. “Riding bulls. No more climbing onto the back of a beast that would rather kill you than let you stay there.”
Tyler’s face turned serious. “I have every intention of getting back on a bull.”
“You can’t be serious.”
“Dead serious.”
Claire threw a hand on her hip. “If that’s supposed to be a joke, it isn’t funny.”
“I don’t make jokes about my life.” His eyes darkened. “My life. I’m a bull rider, and I’m going to continue being one. No matter what you or my sister or anyone else says.”
Jerking the toolbox off the ground with his good arm, Tyler slammed it onto the truck bed, then hopped up after it. Claire had to shuffle around to the back so she could use the bumper to climb up, but she wasn’t about to let this stubborn cowboy walk away from this argument.
“Your sister loves you,” she yelled, storming across the empty flatbed. “And I . . .” She what? Loved him? Unfortunately so, but she wasn’t about to tell him. “I care about you, too. That bull could have killed you.”
“And I could get hit by a truck tomorrow. Doesn’t mean I’m going to hide in my house.”
“That isn’t the same and you know it.” Why couldn’t he see what getting back on a bull would do to the people around him? How they’d feel if the worst happened?
Tyler turned so quickly, Claire nearly charged into him. “What if someone told you to stop teaching?”
“What?”
“Didn’t your parents push you to be a lawyer? To do your civic duty and join the family business of running towns and making decisions for other people?”
Her situation was nothing like his. “Being a teacher isn’t going to get me killed.”
“No? How many school shootings have we had in the past few years?” Tyler asked. “Life is random, Claire. A meteor could kill us all tomorrow. You have to live while you can, the way you want.” His voice dropped as his eyes held hers. “I’m a bull rider. That’s what I do.”
Claire felt deflated. He was right. It was his life, and only he could decide how he wanted to live it. But that didn’t stop her from wishing he would choose another way.
“It’s going to kill your sister when you climb back on one of those bulls.”
And it will kill me, too, she thought.
“I can’t do what she’s done, Claire. I can’t walk away from the thing I love because it’s what other people think I should do.”
The need to grab him and hold on was so strong, Claire did the only thing possible.
She backed away.
“That banner probably needs to dry before being hung up. I’ll get someone to help me with it tomorrow.”
“Claire, don’t—”
“Mom’s expecting me for dinner.” Claire looked at her watch. Then at her feet. Anywhere but at the cowboy with his hand out. “You should head out, too. Thanks for helping the kids.”
“You’re welcome,” he said, but she barely heard the words as she hopped off the truck and stepped through the open warehouse door into a chilly December evening.
—
Kiss Me, Cowboy by Liz Talley
Reed didn’t say anything. Just watched her. The way her glossy lips shone in the neon glow, the way her eyes roved over the dance floor, the way that dress hugged every curve of her body.
Georgia’s gaze returned to his, and she must have seen the glint in his eyes. “I’m not going to sleep with you, you know.”
“What?”
“The way you’re looking at me, breaking in on my dance with Rusty, I can tell.”
“Rodney.”
“Who?”
“His name was Rodney. Not Rusty.”
“Oh,” she said.
“And I never said I wanted to sleep with you,” he said, hoping she couldn’t see straight through his bullshit. “I said I wanted to dance with you. See, those are two different things. For dancing, you usually keep your clothes on.”
“Depends on how you dance,” she said, cracking a smile. In her gaze he could see her trying to gain control. Her boldness seemed part of her protection. After Paul Milligan made the comment about Georgia growing up next door, he’d asked Tyler about his fiery damsel in distress. He now better understood the BMW, the fancy boots and jacket. He’d never been poor—quite the opposite—but he could imagine coming home to a town that had pigeonholed her. Not easy.
“Well, I suppose I could be talked into naked dancing by the right girl.”
“Too bad I’m not the right girl.”
—
Marry Me, Cowboy by Kim Law
Mary Catherine glanced causally around as she headed back to the bar, and this time she found Jax leaning against the far side of the counter.
He’d also found her.
His hat was pushed back on his head and those blue eyes she remembered so well were trained on her. And they didn’t seem anxious to move on anytime soon. Her breath hitched in her throat.
“Buy you a drink?” A dark-blond cutie asked when she stopped by an empty stool. “You’re the one getting married, right? I’m Tony. Me and my buddies here would be glad to protect your integrity tonight.” All five men gave her wide smiles.
She laughed with good humor. Her integrity didn’t need protecting, but she was there for some fun. And these guys were harmless. They’d been at the bar for a while now and didn’t seem to be looking for more than an entertaining Friday night off the ranch. “You and your buddies good at protecting a girl’s integrity, Tony?” she teased.
“The best.” He motioned for the bartender, and when asked what she wanted, she took another peek at Jax.
“Tequila,” she said. She winked at Tony. “Top shelf.”
Cuervo was her go-to for forgetting denim blue eyes.
Her brother came in then and caught her eye. He scanned the men now surrounding her and gave a wink—probably after also concluding that her integrity was intact—then turned his gaze away to take in the remainder of the crowd. Tyler was two years younger than her and was most definitely a town heartthrob. He’d been gorgeous for most of his life. Now he had a nasty slash across his left cheek.
It had only made him more good-looking.
A gaggle of women made their way over to him, and his broad face broke into a wide grin. The poor rodeo star, recovering from a bad throw from a bull. He didn’t seem to be suffering too much, that was for sure.
Mary Catherine shook her head at the unfairness of it all. If a woman came in with a scar like that, men would turn the other way. She rolled her eyes and leaned back against the bar, enjoying the night. The back of her neck suddenly tingled, and she knew without looking that he was looking at her.
The bartender set down the shot, and she tossed it back in one quick motion. It burned all the way down. She hissed in a breath between her teeth then took another peek at Jax.
Yep. Still looking. One eyebrow lifted subtly. That pissed her off. The man hadn’t spoken to her in ten years—other than to offer a foursome with two other women the night she’d been in here after her college graduation—and now, of all times, he showed up and wouldn’t look away.
As if something about her interested him.
Too damned bad. And ten years too late. She was an engaged woman now.
She motioned to the bartender for another drink.
“A girl who likes her tequila,” Tony muttered, leaning into the counter beside her. His eyes glowed with delight. “That’s pretty hot.”
Mary Catherine gave him a toothy grin. “Down boy. I’ve just decided I’m going to be drinking a lot tonight. Which means you have to behave.” She patted his shoulder. “I’m not expecting you to buy what I’m about to put away, though, so that’s the bright side. But I will take you up on that integrity thing. You keep me safe, okay? At least until my girls get back.”
She motioned to the dance floor with the second shot, where Georgia was dancing with Reed McCormick, and Claire was once again running from a handful of men. They’d been following her around all night as if she were a dog in heat.
“You got it.” Tony nodded like an obedient puppy and scooted in closer. He was taking the job seriously. The other four followed suit. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw no less than three women now crowding around Jax.
Maybe the four of them would have a foursome tonight.
Probably it was his regular Friday-night routine.
She downed the second shot and one of the guys ordered her a third, and then she returned to that night ten years ago…

Liz Bio:
A finalist in both RWA's prestigious Golden Heart award and RITA award, Liz Talley has found a home writing sassy contemporary romance. Her stories are set in the South where the tea is sweet, the summers are hot and the men are hotter. Liz lives in North Louisiana with her childhood sweetheart, two handsome children, three dogs and a mean kitty. You can visit Liz at www.liztalleybooks.com to learn more about her upcoming books.


Terri Bio:
Author of the Amazon and Wall Street Journal bestselling Anchor Island Series, Terri Osburn started putting words on the page in 2007. Five years later she was named a finalist in the Romance Writers of America Golden Heart contest for unpublished manuscripts. That led to signing with an agent in June of 2012, and the publication of her debut novel, Meant To Be, with Montlake Romance in May 2013. Since then Terri has gone on to sell more than a million books worldwide, and her work has been translated into German, Turkish, Italian, Spanish, and French. Ms. Osburn resides in middle Tennessee with her college-student daughter, four frisky felines, and two troublesome terriers. When she isn't writing, she's either traveling the world to meet new readers, or taking on a home improvement project to justify the purchase of all the power tools now filling her garage.


Kim Bio:
As a child, award-winning author Kim Law cultivated a love for chocolate, anything purple, and creative writing. She penned her debut work, "The Gigantic Talking Raisin," in the sixth grade and got hooked on the delights of creating stories. Before settling into the writing life, however, she earned a college degree in mathematics and worked as a computer programmer. Now she's pursuing her lifelong dream of writing romance novels. She has won the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart Award, has been a finalist for the prestigious RWA RITA Award, and has served in varied positions for her local RWA chapter. A native of Kentucky, Kim lives with her husband and an assortment of animals in Middle Tennessee.


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Book Blitz ~ Nick & Eve - North Pole Unlimited by Elle Rush


Nick and Eve
Elle Rush
(North Pole Unlimited, #3)
Publication date: November 19th 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance
Nick’s plan: dodge his grandmother’s matchmaking attempts by claiming Eve is his date for Christmas. He probably should have asked Eve first.
Although Nick Klassen is grateful when Eve rides to his rescue after he breaks down outside of December, Manitoba, he can’t run fast enough when his meddling grandmother tries to set him up with the pretty tow-truck driver. Then he gets an idea.
Between juggling extra hours at work and a never-ending Christmas to-do list, Eve LeBlanc doesn’t have time for a new man in her life. But ever since she picked Nick up on the side of the road, she’s been running into him everywhere.
His flirtations started innocently enough but when his grandmother invites “his girlfriend” to the family’s Christmas dinner, Nick realizes if he wants to stop pretending about Eve, he must come clean. Once Eve learns of his deception, he’ll need Santa’s help to turn their fake relationship in the real thing.
—
EXCERPT:
Eve rolled to a stop in the driveway. “This is impressive.” Strings of unlit Christmas lights framed his grandmother’s two-storey house and circled the spruce tree in the front yard. Plastic candy canes stuck in the snowbanks lined the sidewalk, and a pinecone-studded wreath twice the size of the one on the tow-truck’s grill hung from the screen door.
“You should see the inside. Can you wait till I’m certain her car will start? She hasn’t run it in a couple weeks,” Nick said.
His grandmother must have been watching from the window, because the front door opened before they hit the first step. “Come in, it’s freezing out here,” she said.
The entranceway and the adjacent living room were fully Christmas-bombed, from the reindeer-shaped sofa cushions to the double-decker white candy bowl stand, which had a Frosty face and top hat stuck to the top of the wire frame. Nick held back a snicker as Eve spun in a three-sixty and breathed a quiet, “Whoa.”
“You’re not kidding,” he whispered back.
“I’m Adelaide Klassen. Who might you be?” his gran asked. She was dressed for her appointment. After a lifetime of seeing her in business suits at the office, it was always a shock to Nick’s system to see his grey-haired grandmother in jeans and a plaid, flannel shirt.
Eve gave Adelaide’s hand a hearty shake. “Eve LeBlanc, tow-truck driver.”
“It’s lovely to meet you. Are you a special friend of Nick’s?”
Nick sighed. She was starting, and they’d been in the house for thirty seconds. “No, Gran, she’s not my girlfriend.”
“I just picked him up on the side of the road. I must say he is the cutest stray I’ve come across in a while,” Eve added with a smile.
“Don’t encourage her!”


Author Bio:
Elle Rush is a contemporary romance author from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. When she’s not travelling, she’s hard at work writing books which are set all over the world. From Hollywood to the house next door, her heroes will make you sigh and her heroines will make you laugh out loud.

Elle has a degree in Spanish and French, barely passed German, and has flunked poetry in every language she’s studied, including English. She also has mild addictions to tea, yarn, Christmas decorations, and HGTV renovations shows.

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