Sunday, December 30, 2018

Chapter One Reveal for The Fallback by Mariah Dietz


Chapter 1

“What are you doing?” My words are so pitched I don’t recognize my own voice. It’s appropriate considering everything appears unfamiliar.

Gabe’s hips stop moving over the brunette woman in our bed. He turns his head, and his brown eyes grow three sizes as he stares at where I’m fixed inside our bedroom, watching my boyfriend of six years sleeping with another woman.

“This wasn’t…” he begins before closing his eyes, suddenly looking exhausted. The drained expression feels like a bigger betrayal than his current actions. Like owing me an explanation is burdening him. He rolls off the dark-haired woman and carefully pulls the sheets—my sheets, ones that cost a small fortune for our last anniversary—and covers her.

Slowly, she rolls to her back and looks my way.

My heart thunders in my chest, the pulsations so loud and strong I hear it in my ears and feel it in my fingertips. I stare at her, trying to recall if I know her—if I’ve ever seen her in passing or at a work event—anywhere. Under my scrutiny, she pulls the sheets higher and shifts her bright-blue eyes around the room, never settling on any one place as she tucks some misplaced strands of her blown-out hair behind an ear.

It’s nearly impossible for me to stop watching her, working to recognize if she’s been here before—if they’ve done this before. Slowly, my attention moves back to Gabe, realizing he’s talking. Several seconds pass, but I can’t focus on what he’s saying. The bass of my heartbeat is all I hear as he continues speaking, and then he has the audacity to dip his chin and stare up at me with concern rounding his eyes.

“Brooke?”

I blink. Once.

Twice.

Three times, attempting to make sense of the situation. Once when I was thirteen, I had a panic attack. I had thought I was having a heart attack and was going to die. It feels like that again. Like my heart isn’t physically capable of beating this fast, this hard. I’m light-headed and so warm I’m starting to sweat. My thoughts—like my feet—are stuck in place.

“Brooke,” Gabe says my name again, this time louder and more abrupt. It triggers my heart into beating a new rhythm. “What are you doing home?”

“What am I doing home?” Offense coats my voice, which is still pitched high and unrecognizable.

“You said you had to meet a client tonight. Flowers or cake…” He runs a hand lazily over his head, mussing his dark hair further. “Something.”

“They had to reschedule,” I reply lamely. I’d spent my drive home discussing this month’s events with my boss, Catherine, and looking forward to trading my work clothes for a pair of sweatpants, climbing into my expensive sheets, and ordering takeout.

This.

Him.

Her.

They weren’t what I’d imagined when I’d walked in and found our cat, Lucky, sitting at our bedroom door with one paw stretched beneath the small crack in an attempt to get inside.

I stare at Gabe and wait. I don’t know what I’m wanting or even expecting. If it’s an apology or lame excuse—blame because I work too much or tears because he’s just inflicted inexplicable pain to my chest and our relationship. He swallows, the column of his throat moving sluggishly as he considers his words. Brown eyes that I can read better than words reveal none of the replies I’m imagining being a reality.

“Brooke, I’m sorry,” he says. “I’m really, truly sorry.”

My throat grows tight, and my eyes sting. His sympathy hurts nearly as much as his decision to do this so publicly, with the person who contributed to ripping us apart still lying on my bed, privileged to a conversation I never saw coming.

“I love you, Brooke. I love you so much that I’ve been struggling with how to tell you…”

“There are a thousand variations of words you could have used. Words like ‘I like someone else,’ ‘I’m having an affair,’ ‘I’ve decided I want to try dating a tramp.’” I list them off, my voice void of the emotions surging through me as I look pointedly at the woman in my bed.

She recoils deeper into the security of my bed, my expensive sheets shielding her.

“It didn’t feel like I was having an affair.” Gabe’s words chill me.

My attention slowly shifts to his long legs hanging off the side of the bed—our gray overstuffed duvet that we picked out a couple of years ago when his mom sent us a gift card for Christmas is tucked over his lap. “I’m sorry,” he says again. “I wanted to have this conversation with you and explain my feelings so you’d know I wasn’t trying to hurt or deceive you. I’ve been meaning to talk to you for so long, it’s just…”

I raise a hand to stop his slowed speech and shake my head before turning and striding back out of my apartment.

Clouds and the setting sun darken the sky, promising more rain as I descend the two flights of stairs to the parking lot and numbly climb into the driver’s seat of my car and start the engine.

Without looking, I back up. A horn blares. I stomp on the brake, my body jolting forward against the tight restraint of my seat belt. A small, black car is stopped mere inches from my bumper, his hands thrown in the air with frustration. I make an attempt to wave an apology before moving my car back into drive and rolling forward. He zooms past me, honking once more. My hands are trembling, and all my muscles are strained as I force myself to sit back and take a deep breath, knowing full well neither is due to the near accident.

I blow out a deep, shaky breath. The tiredness I’d felt on my drive home has been replaced with fatigue, and all thoughts about the events I’ve been obsessing over at work cease, replaced with the image of Gabe moving in and out of the brunette. His hands gripping her waist.

His face enchanted by the purposeful rhythmic beat his hips followed.

Bile builds in my throat, and with a quick punch to my seat belt latch, I’m out of the car and losing the contents of my stomach on the grass in front of our apartment building.

Moisture escapes my eyes as I get back into my car and search for some tissues to wipe my face.

I turn off the radio, take a drink from my coffee from this morning to rid the rancid taste, then check my mirrors twice before I back up again and drive for thirty minutes of numb silence.

Getting out, I notice it’s raining and wonder if it was the entire drive over. I was working so hard to not think of anything—and more importantly anyone—that I can’t even recall getting off the highway or checking to make sure I took the right turns.

The motion-sensor lights flip on as I move to close my car door, and like a spotlight, they follow me to the front door, where I ring the doorbell and take a step back on the small, concrete stoop. I probably should have gone to Felicity’s. My best friend wouldn’t have time to pry about me being there at this hour because her young kids would need their bath followed by stories, and then she’d likely fall asleep with them while snuggling like she so often does. However, there’s a good possibility she would have deferred the tasks to her husband and insisted on making sure I was okay. I could have gone to my brother’s house. But although Brandon likes to be a pain in my ass, he would have cared too much about this situation and would likely have been up all night, plotting revenge against Gabe—partly out of love and also some strange respect code that men share.

Additional lights flip on, illuminating the front of the small house, and the door swings wide, revealing my grandma holding a large-print book in her small hands. Her face warms from concerned to happy as she quickly pushes the glass storm door open. “Brooke!” she calls. “I didn’t know you were coming by tonight. Are you alone, or is Gabe with you?”

“Sorry, Grammy. It’s kind of an impromptu visit.”

At my words, she pauses. Creases now reveal her age, which her clear blue eyes defy as they carefully inspect my features for all the words I’m not saying. “Supper’s just about ready. Why don’t you go wash up while I pour us some tea?”

Guilt trickles into my senses. “I didn’t mean to impose,” I tell her. “I’ll just sit with you.”

“I said it’s time for supper.” Though she’s more than six inches shorter than me, she drops her chin and stares at me with a challenge to refuse her again.

“I should have called.”

Grammy’s lips curve into a smile. “Don’t be silly. You’re always welcome.” She reaches forward and takes my hand, lending me her warmth and security. She pats the top of my knuckles with her other hand. “Go wash up.”

As I turn to the back of the house, Grammy swats my backside. Though I’m nearing thirty, she still affectionately pats my butt like I’m a toddler in diapers. It’s something that mortified me during my teenage years and later became a contest between my brother and me to see who could best dodge her during a visit. Now, it barely phases me.

Over the small vanity in the bathroom, I stare at my reflection, realizing why Grammy was looking at me with concern. My hazel eyes that often change color with my clothes are too round, my dark-blond hair is pulled back into a tight ponytail, and my jaw is too tight. I don’t recognize my own expression—even my breathing sounds different. My grandma isn’t the type to meddle. She also doesn’t make attempts to fix issues. She’ll listen and offer her support, but she isn’t one to interfere—making coming here the right decision.

I quickly wash my hands and head to the kitchen, where Grammy is absorbed in a game show.

“Can I help?”

She shakes her head and carries a bowl of diced apples to the table. They’re covered in clouds of sweetened whipped cream because the only way she eats fruit is if it’s covered in some form of sugar. I follow behind her, taking a seat so my back faces the TV I know she’ll want to watch.

Large bowls of green salad are at each place setting, topped with tomatoes, yellow peppers, and jicama. Grammy’s plate is crowded with a pile of mashed potatoes, gravy, and fried pork chops—foods I stopped eating more than a decade before. A plate of sliced homemade bread completes the table.

“Brandon must not have known you were making pork chops,” I say.

Grammy pats my shoulder as she sets a napkin next to my plate and takes a seat across from me. “If he had, I would need twice as many chops.”

“How was rummy this week?”

Grammy’s blue eyes brighten. “They never stand a chance.”

I laugh at her complete disregard of humbleness.

“How’s work?” she asks in return.

My shoulders drop as I take in a deep breath. So often my job at the prestigious and prominent event-planning company Glitter and Gold overwhelms me with all the moving components and changes that keep me busy late into the night and weekends. After today, though, my job seems like such a simple and monotonous task. “It’s good,” I tell her. “Busy. With wedding season approaching, we’re having a big rush of customers.”

She nods, her attention torn between my answer and the show playing over my shoulder.

“I bet it is. Any interesting themes this year?”

“Nothing quite as unusual as the circus wedding from a couple of years ago,” I tell her.

“But there is a gothic wedding that is teetering between classy and creepy and another one that is supposed to be a trip around the world. It’s a fun idea, but some of the details are proving to be trickier than I’d expected.”

“You’ll figure it out. You always do.” She smiles at me. Grammy’s attention moves to the TV, where she starts yelling out answers and slapping the table each time the contestants don’t answer correctly, providing me some of the solitude I’d come here for. She doesn’t comment on how little of my dinner is eaten, and I’m grateful, knowing I couldn’t stomach it even if I tried.

When the show ends, Grammy stands and moves toward the sink to do dishes, and I follow, a companionable silence between us.

“How’s Gabe?” Grammy asks as she dries a plate.

I lean against the kitchen sink with my hip, filling the pan she used to make gravy with hot water. Feasible answers don’t come. Nothing does.

Grammy’s small hand covers mine, turning the faucet off. “It’ll be okay,” she tells me. “Everything’s going to be fine.”

“Would you mind if I stayed over on the hide-a-bed?”

Grammy’s lips pull into a thin line, realization fully dawning on her that this isn’t just a minor dispute. Since Gabe and I moved in together four years ago, I’ve never sought out another place to stay. She clutches my hand tightly. “I’ll grab the blankets.”

My phone dings, and my heart catapults to my throat.

Is Gabe checking on me?

Is he apologizing?

Will he tell me it was the biggest mistake of his life and he wants me back?

Trepidation makes my movements to retrieve my phone from my purse slow and tense. I flip the screen over and see a message from Michaela, the wife of James, who is Gabe’s best friend.

My heart rate quadruples in a second.

Has he already told everyone?

Am I going to start receiving pity texts and calls?

Is that how this works?

My thumb shakes and my palms sweat as I flip the screen open to receive her message and read it three times before the words sink in.

Michaela: Sorry to cancel last minute, but James has caught the flu. Hopefully we can reschedule for next week or sometime soon! Love you guys!

My sigh is so deep it’s audible. I don’t respond to Michaela and instead scroll down in my messages to Felicity’s name.

Me: Mind if I come by in the morning to borrow some clothes? I need an outfit for tomorrow. I’ll bring you coffee and a cinnamon roll. *on knees, begging*

Felicity: Begging on your knees for my clothes? Did you message the wrong person again? #MyClosetSucksssss

Me: I messaged the wrong person one time…

Felicity: One time my ass. It happens every time you want to gossip about someone.

Me: And karma, being the bitch that she is, taught me to stop after choking on my own words too many times.

Felicity: You’re welcome to come over. I have my pre-kiddo clothes still in my closet, but they’re probably all out of style. #momlife

Me: #idontcare #yourethebest #hashtagsarelame

Felicity: Well, you owe this *lame* hashtag user a venti now.

Me: Sold.

Felicity: Is everything okay?

Me: It will be. ☺ I’ll see you in the morning. Kiss the kiddos goodnight for me.

Felicity: !!!! It will be?!?!? What kind of response is that? What happened?

Me: I’m fine. Promise.

Felicity: ...you’ll tell me in the morning?

Me: Bright and early.


THE FALLBACK
by MARIAH DIETZ

Breaking up is hard to do.

It's even harder when you're not expecting it.

Brooke Jensen is a planner. Not only in her personal life but also professionally as one of the most sought after event planners in Chicago.

But, when the ideal life she built for herself, complete with handsome, long-term boyfriend and perfect apartment crumbles, she realizes there are some things you just can’t plan for.

While trying to start anew from her best friend's guest room and discovering the best doughnuts in the city, an idea sparks to life when she meets Levi. He's intriguing, funny, and shockingly good-looking, and what had been a few stray thoughts becomes a new passion for Brooke, a blog detailing learning how to be single. The project introduces Brooke to new people and experiences, and keeps returning her back to Levi.

But, Brooke learns kismet may have been wrong when she learns Levi is the last person she should be interested in.

Falling for the wrong guy once has Brooke hesitant to start a new relationship, but Levi is quickly proving that The Fallback might be even better.



~MEET MARIAH DIETZ~


Mariah Dietz lives with her husband and three sons, who are the axis of her crazy and wonderful world in North Carolina.

Mariah grew up in a tiny town outside of Portland, Oregon, where she spent most of her time immersed in the pages of books that she both read and created.

She has a love for all things that include her family, good coffee, books, traveling, and dark chocolate. She’s also obsessed with Christmas ornaments and all things Disney.

~CONNECT WITH MARIAH DIETZ~


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Friday, December 28, 2018

Book Review and Giveaway for Right Where I Want You by Jessica Hawkins


RIGHT WHERE I WANT YOU
by JESSICA HAWKINS

There’s a thin line between love and hate . . . and it cuts right through the middle of their office.

Bad boys? They run right over good girls like Georgina Keller. But after a confidence-shattering breakup, she’s determined not to let anyone at her new workplace push her around—least of all the brooding creative director, a “bad boy of publishing” who’s made it clear she’s enemy #1.

Sebastian Quinn's taste for fast cars, late nights, and beautiful women may have gotten him to the top of a leading New York magazine, but the reputation that made him is suddenly threatening to end his career.

Georgina can help Modern Man shed its bad reputation, but in order to do that, she’ll have to start at the top—and no amount of rakish charm or inconvenient attraction will distract her.

Because if Sebastian gets her right where he wants her, it means she’s going down.


REVIEW: 3 STARS
"When there was no more hate, only love, where was the line?"

Jessica Hawkins has topped my list of favorite authors for years, and I have made no secret of that. Her angst, her storytelling, her characters with decisions and guarded hearts - she's always a win with me. With her latest jaunt into a lighter, sweeter comedy, I knew this was going to test me. I'm used to the pull of my heartstrings and the steady pumping of my heart because the angst is so powerful that I'm on the edge of my seat. I didn't get that angst or tug with this one, but you know what? I'm ok with that. I have had a few days to think about it and while it was a slow comeuppance for me (I had to get with the "no-angst" program), it was a story that I definitely enjoyed reading. I am not denying that the story was good, because it was, but it was just different than the Jessica Hawkins Angst-fest I am used to reading. It was also worthy of great amounts of discussion and laughter among the group of ladies I was reading with.

As you may know, I don't often do sweet, nor do I do comedies a whole lot, but this was Jessica and I knew I needed to read it. I have read and loved every single book she has written, so this was a no brainer for me. Having said all that, I really did enjoy this book. What I got with this one was a surprise though. I got a down to earth Hero that had all the flaws a young bachelor can and should have. He was crass with his words around his friends, he had a great "who cares" attitude caked with nonchalance when it came to dealing with some things, and he had some oddball sayings that made me laugh. But he was REAL to me. A normal guy with a real personality and real quirks. He wasn't as put together as I originally thought he was going to be, but that reality made him more relatable. This guy was more firmly planted in the ground in his way of thinking, so to add Georgina to the mix was a fun traipse through their volatile relationship. But, that was their love story. That is what kept me turning the pages to find out how they came together and how the walls were going to come down. It took a little time for me to warm up to Georgina because she had a sort of "switch" and that flip gave me an Elvis lip twitch. The deal is, once we got down to the roots of these two characters with their issues and their pain, I couldn't help but fall in love with their love story....because it was truly theirs to work through.

"You're complicating things. Just be who you are."

Sebastian's strength was easily measured in his mental convictions, whereas Georgina's was in her work life. Their dynamic worked well and their banter was the stuff that smiles are made of. I loved when they were at each other! I loved when they tried to show up the other wth their 'knowledge'. That made for good back and forth between the characters. I always enjoy the flow of Jessica's books and the way she builds up her characters. I will say that I walked away with a better appreciation for personal growth and reading it through someone else's eyes after this one. It's amazing how we let fear get in the way of our dreams and doubly insane how we let other people's opinions change how we see ourselves. Jessica had a different voice in this book, and combined with a change of pace, it allowed a new love to unfold different and apart from all her other books.

BUT!!! This review wouldn't be complete without mentioning the supporting cast and crew; their friends. I'm sure this is probably one of my favorite group of secondaries. Justin had me rolling at one point - like dying, and Luciano was not much different, but he had some extra sass to him. They added another level of reality and depth to the story and every time they were around, I was laughing. Because this story wasn't just about two people working through their own issues, oh no. It literally took a village. The reality of the characters was there and there wasn't any super-human, thoughtful claims to process, and it just read like an every day, normal life situation, but with the added pleasure of finding your true love in the process - Jessica Hawkins style. It really showcased how good it is to be able to lean on some friends to talk things through. Such great secondary characters and I loved them!! I was completely caught off guard at how hard I laughed in some spots. Seriously, because not only did I fall in love with the primary and secondary characters, I actually would LOVE to hear their stories too!! Let's start with Justin's story, mmkay? Pretty please, Jessica? HAHAHA!

I may have sighed when Sebastian got flirty with Georgina, and I may have had the chills when he whispered in her ear from behind....but I'll never tell.

"Don't tell me your flaws aren't my blessings."
~BEE

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~MEET JESSICA HAWKINS~
Jessica Hawkins grew up between the purple mountains and under the endless sun of Palm Springs, California.

She studied international business at Arizona State University and has also lived in Costa Rica and New York City. To her, the most intriguing fiction is forbidden, and that's what you'll find in her stories. Currently, she resides wherever her head lands, which is often the unexpected (but warm) keyboard of her trusty MacBook.

~CONNECT WITH JESSICA~

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Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Book Review for Permission by TM Frazier



PERMISSION
by TM FRAZIER

Permission is the conclusion of Grim and Emma Jean's story.

War breaks out in Lacking. The streets aren't safe.

When an unexpected person from my past arrives in town, I'm forced to make a choice between the life I've always wanted, and a life I never knew I could have.

I didn't know how strong I was until I met Grim.

But am I strong enough to live without him?




REVIEW: Eventual DNF....with full on skimming

Well, darnit. There is nothing more sad than a final book in a trilogy you were enjoying going rogue and ruining the ending of a series for you. I guess I feel like this one kinda let me down. I went from two action packed books that had me hooked and kept the story moving in a forward progression, to a book that started out with a lot of daydreaming and unrealistic fluff - setting the pace for this book as none too pleasing. I'm sure it was probably a me thing seeing how I built this all up in my head based on the first two books, but I was hoping for an epic finish. Apparently there was an epic finish (I cheated and looked after I DNFd it), but I read it a little (a lot) differently than I thought I would. This one just lacked the luster I got from the first two. I know this is a me thing. I know it, sadly....

I think I was a tad more nit-picky with this one. For instance, in the very beginning of the book, Grim was carrying Gabby with a visceral need to save her for EJ. He talks about the blood staining his white sneakers, but the rest of his internal monologue is him daydreaming of a baby bump on EJ and giving her a life outside of Bedlam. I would have thought the main focus was getting Gabby and yourself to a safe place and not dreaming of white picket fences - but this went on for a few pages. I already wanted to start skimming, and that is not a good sign. This was the very beginning pages of the book, so the fear was this book was going to be full of fluff. While we did get the just finale on this, I wasn't as impressed with this final installment as I was with the first two. This also didn't feel like a 'dark romance' to me, after it was all said and done, so I feel it may have been misclassified with that description as well. This one started at a 3 star and declined rapidly for me as the book and theatrics went on.

I also felt like this was a very rushed book with some very unexplained variables that I literally shook my head at. I don't like holding BIG secrets from the other half of the equation....and that part bugged me to no end. I don't understand how some things were played out as they were, because again....why rush it? If you are so stuck in your ways, and so strong only to bend over backwards for something makes me question that strength all along. But, then again....I can pretend to understand that need for normality and your biggest desire ever coming true, so yay for that as well.

BUT, this isn't to say that I hated this book - because I didn't. I just felt completely and overwhelmingly....underwhelmed by it. I didn't enjoy it. I feel I needed to preface this whole review because, while it isn't a glowing one, I honestly didn't hate it but it was a bit ridiculous in the whole scheme of things. I feel that TM Frazier set up a precedent with the first two books so I was hoping for that type of gripping read to keep me on the edge of my seat while finishing out their story. I've really enjoyed the first half of the series by her. Even though this one didn't capture me like the first two, getting Grim and Tricks' HEA was the best result I received after skimming the rest of this one. I have purchased all her books preceding this one so that I can read them, so I will eventually take some time to do that. Overall, this had a really good start to the series, but this final book kind of ruined what the series could have been for me.

One thing that really bothered me was this final book was almost the length of the first two combined, which is also a huge factor in my unhappiness with it. With the first book being 167 pages, the second being 206, and this one being 310 (per Amazon) - the price and page count didn't warrant a separation into three books, in my personal opinion. I am tired of the length being unnecessarily split into three books to drag out a series and I feel like this trend is probably starting to become more of the norm. This will make me rethink buying some trilogies for a little while since I am feeling ultimately burnt out on this idea. This is also the second trilogy in a row to start out with a great premise only to peter out and lose steam by the final book, making me feel like I didn't get the most bang for my buck.

I guess, the biggest let down was how easily things were fixed or washed away. I had a hard time with how Gabby was just forgiven, as well as Mona in a sense. Maybe I am confused, or I've forgotten something along the way (happens when you read so many books), but I was pretty sure they were working against EJ in the last book. This book had me confused quite a few times, and I hate when that happens. It was almost as if it was a word grab, talking me in circles. Some of it wasn't necessary, and the rest was fluff. I didn't think the story was lining up for me as well as I had hoped. Some actions felt overly flowery and the easy way out was taken on one too many conclusions. But mostly there was a lack of grit that one would expect for the type of story that was being told. Like, how was there was an abundance of money to buy up blocks of houses to clean up the area, but they couldn't do that before? Secrets were explained after the fact, but you couldn't have explained it better before all the shootings? You didn't mind people you love getting hurt just to benefit your agenda or get the answers you thought you needed? You have no problems killing people for a supposed wrong they did you, but confirmed wrongs were married and sent off away from family? Like.... really? I found myself scrunching my nose and squinting my eyes at quite a few parts in this one.

I'm so bummed this one took the turn it did. I guess I had more of a problem with this one than I thought I did. <sigh>

"You might be the cause, but it's not your fault."
~BEE

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PURCHASE POSSESSION (book 2)

My review: http://bit.ly/2QdRFuE

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~MEET TM FRAZIER~
T.M. (Tracey Marie) Frazier never dreamed that a single person would ever read a word she wrote when she published her first book. Now, she is a five-time USA Today bestselling author and her books have been translated into numerous languages and published all around the world.

T.M. enjoys writing what she calls sexy‘wrongside of the tracks romance’ with morally corrupt anti-heroes and ballsy heroines.

Her books have been described as raw, dark and gritty. Basically, what that means, is while some authors are great at describing a flower as it blooms, T.M. is better at describing it in the final stages of decay.

She loves meeting her readers, but if you see her at an event please don’t pinch her because she's not ready to wake up from this amazing dream.

~CONNECT WITH TRACEY~

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Monday, December 17, 2018

Book Review and Giveaway for HOOPS Holiday by Kennedy Ryan


by KENNEDY RYAN

A jock, a journalist and a second chance . . .

MacKenzie Decker was a question Avery never got to ask, much less answer.

They met when she was a young reporter fueled by ambition, and the ink on Deck's first NBA contract was barely dry. Years later, they've climbed so high and lost so much, but one thing hasn't changed. The attraction that simmered between them in a locker room before is still there. With success like theirs, everything has been possible . . . except them.

That was then.
But what about now?

*Also contains new, never-before published Christmas-themed content from LONG SHOT and BLOCK SHOT. You don't have to read those books before the FULL-COURT PRESS novella!


REVIEW: 5 Tease-worthy Stars
"This girl - one look and one question tells me I can't have my way with her. I never could resist a challenge."

Getting a new book by an author you love is bliss. Getting an addition to a book you never thought you'd get is like CHRISTMAS!! Kennedy Ryan is a top FIVE author for me. I have read EVERY single one of her books and have loved them all. I love the eloquence in which she tells a story, but I love the truth in her words that much more. It's probably ridiculous how much I love her stories of love and triumph, but she is a very brilliant and gifted storyteller.

With this triple novella, I happily got a little bit more of Decker and Avery! I wasn't able to spend much time with them since they were originally a novella in an anthology, so their story was short and sweet and a kind of prequel to the HOOPS series. Even though this novella kicked off that series, I must say...they definitely enjoyed their own beginning. I loved Decker and Avery. I loved that original novella very much, but adding a little bit more - well, sure I loved it, but now it makes me want their full story that much more!! They have unbelievable chemistry and it danced throughout the pages.

In addition to the added content in Full Court Press, we got little "stocking stuffer" additions to some of my favorite couples' stories. I have been screaming about Long Shot and Block Shot since I read them earlier this year. I already loved Kennedy's words before, but these stories stand out among the crowd. The stories stuck with me emotionally and mentally for quite some time after I read them, so to be able to get another glimpse into the lives of August and Iris, as well as Jared and Banner, well - that was a fun little tease at how they are doing after we closed the pages of their books. So fun. I'm not going to lie, short and sexy, and very to the point were these little stories....but so welcome because of the love she poured onto the pages. Snippets of sexiness, I will call them.

HOWEVER. Yes, there is that word again. My patience is wearing thin because what did Kennedy do? She gave me juuuussst a bit more of Lotus and Kenan again to make me remember whyyyy I am waiting so desperately for their story in HOOK SHOT. Coming in early 2019, the wait has been a long time coming because the mystery that surrounds Lotus alone makes me desperate to read her story, but the desires, the pull, the need that Kenan has makes me giddy. Yet, Kennedy throws in that little eyebrow raising, gasp inducing comment at the very end of August and Iris's stocking stuffer and I fuh-reaked out!! Argh!! What're you doing to meeee?? Hence my patience running low because the anticipation alone is making me wanna pace and Kennedy Ryan is a mastermind at building anticipation.

I haven't yet decided if Kennedy is a mastermind at storytelling or teasing me. Just kidding. The storytelling wins out, but she sure can tease me well!!

"I understand the difference now between the first time you kiss someone, and a first kiss."
~BEE



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~MEET KENNEDY RYAN~
I'm a wife, a mom, a writer, an advocate for families living with autism. That's me in a nutshell. Crack the nut, and you'll find a Southern girl gone Southern California who loves pizza and Diet Coke, and wishes she got to watch a lot more television. You can usually catch me up too late, on social media too much, or FINALLY putting a dent in my ever-growing To Be Read list!


~CONNECT WITH KENNEDY~

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Thursday, December 13, 2018

Book Review and Giveaway for Verity by Colleen Hoover


VERITY
by COLLEEN HOOVER

Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen's feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife's words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.


REVIEW: 5 FREAKISHLY BRILLIANT STARS
"The world was her manuscript. No surface was safe."

I guess I can say, Colleen put the holy chit in holy chit. Totally still sitting here with wide eyes and my jaw dropped because I am still thinking about it. Two days later. Still.

I have had a desire for something new lately Something to shake up my reading just a bit and get away from the ordinary contemporary romance arena. I've been getting recommendations for PNR, looking into other kinds of sub-genres, etc. Well, come to find out Colleen Hoover wrote a thriller? I mean, a great author that I already enjoy, throwing her hat into another ring? Heck yeah!! I'm in!!! This was just the kind of read I needed! Now, before I fell in love with romance, I heavily read True Crime and Mysteries. I really enjoyed those kinds of books, but I haven't read them in years. So reading this genre by a known, amazing wordsmith really made me wide-eye a few spots, and even gave me the chills a few times. Lo and behold, I loved it!!!

FYI: I always wonder what my review will read like to another reader who hasn't read the book....but now I wonder how I will get this all out without spoilers and how those that have read it will be able to understand where I'm coming from.  

This is one of those books that you sit there after you finish it and you stare blank faced, wide eyed out the window just to process the crazy you just read. One of those ones that you find yourself asking questions out loud to an empty room, and then answering them. Like, really? Did I just read that? I've heard it before; immerse yourself in the crazy to get in the headspace you need. I kinda wonder, Colleen.....HOW did you get into THAT headspace?? Brilliant. Creepy, but brilliant. Colleen, let's be friends, please? When you can willingly and knowingly bend the will and belief of your readers, that's talent. I feel as if Colleen infused a bit of herself in this one quite well by leading us with her wit, but allowing us to question her sanity at the exact same time. Really....brilliant. 

I loved that I got to try something new with a voice I loved. It was creepy because I didn't know who to blame. What to expect. How it was going to end. I was kept guessing the entire time. Obviously being outside of a genre I normally read had me on my toes the whole time, but the air of mystery got to me throughout the entire book. I think she pulled this one off rather well. When I say I got the creeps from this one, I mean it. I don't scare easily, but a girl isn't afraid to admit the bumps in the night make her not sleep and when her husband is gone at night, I sleep....I mean, she sleeps with her closet light on. But, anywaaaay, I got to 80% at 4:30 in the morning and had to put it down. The next chapter started and it immediately wigged me out!! I was like, nope!! Gotta try to sleep! HAHAHA! I liked the ride this one took me on. Out of the ordinary, different from my normal reads....and there was a love that was burgeoning as well, and that gave me some levity and strength to keep reading. (After I woke up!)

Ok, I realize that this book may not be über super scary to many, and that's fine. Totally wasn't scary in the whole scheme of things - I wasn't scared like that, but it sure did give me the willies. Like, I never would have stayed at that house, I can promise you that much. Nope. Nope. Nope. No way, dude. I got the chills too many times between all the things happening, and even the different characters and their actions. I don't need to sit here and explain how she flows, and blah blah blah...most of us (hopefully) have already read at least one of her books and know how well she carries a tune - because she can orchestrate a love like no other. I love her characters, the dynamic she inflects in her words, and the way she tells a story. Reading this really was a no brainer for me. But Colleen allowed me to see so many scenarios differently - until the pieces were finally put together in the end, only to make me question them all over again! I will admit this book will be discussed animatedly for some time to come. Theories and curiosities abound, especially when she ends a book like that....

"The good thing about sins is they don't have to be atoned for immediately."
~BEE






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~MEET COLLEEN HOOVER~
Colleen Hoover is the New York Times bestselling author of nine novels, including the #1 bestseller, Hopeless. She lives in Texas with her husband and three children. She is the founder of The Bookworm Box, a book subscription service which donates 100% of its proceeds to charity. She also owns The Bookworm Box, a specialty bookstore located in Sulphur Springs, Tx.

~CONNECT WITH COLLEEN~

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Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Excerpt for Verity by Colleen Hoover

Excerpt

“What are you wearing?” Corey is staring down at my shirt, perplexed, just now noticing it despite having spent the last fifteen minutes with me. 

I look down at my oversized shirt. For a moment, I forgot how ridiculous I look. “I spilled coffee on my other shirt this morning and had to change.”

“Whose shirt is that?”

I shrug. “Probably yours. It was in my closet.”

“You left your house in that? There wasn’t something else you could have worn?”

“It doesn’t look high fashion?” I’m being sarcastic, but he doesn’t catch it.

He makes a face. “No. Is it supposed to?”

Such an ass. But he’s good in bed, like most assholes.

I’m actually relieved when the conference room door opens and a woman walks in. She’s followed, almost comically, by an older man walking so closely behind her, he bumps into the back of her when she stops.

“Goddammit, Barron,” I hear her mumble.

I almost smile at the idea of Goddammit Barron actually being his name. Jeremy enters last. He gives me a small nod that goes unnoticed by everyone else.

The woman is dressed more appropriately than I am on my best day, with short black hair and lipstick so red, it’s a little jarring at nine thirty in the morning. She seems to be the one in charge as she reaches for Corey’s hand, and then mine, while Goddammit Barron looks on. “Amanda Thomas,” she says. “I’m an editor with Pantem Press. This is Barron Stephens, our lawyer, and Jeremy Crawford, our client.”

Jeremy and I shake hands, and he does a good job of pretending we didn’t share an extremely bizarre morning. He quietly takes the seat across from me. I try not to look at him, but it’s the only place my eyes seem to want to travel. I have no idea why I’m more curious about him than I am about this meeting.

Amanda pulls folders out of her briefcase and slides them in front of Corey and me.

“Thank you for meeting with us,” she says. “We don’t want to waste your time, so I’ll cut right to the chase. One of our authors is unable to fulfill a contract due to medical reasons, and we’re in search of a writer with experience in the same genre who may be interested in completing the three remaining books in her series.”

I glance at Jeremy, but his stoic expression doesn’t hint at his role in this meeting.

“Who is the author?” Corey asks.

“We’re happy to go over the details and terms with you, but we do ask that you sign the non-disclosure agreement. We would like to keep our author’s current situation out of the media.”

“Of course,” Corey says.

I acquiesce, but I say nothing as we both look over the forms and then sign them.

Corey slides them back to Amanda.

“Her name is Verity Crawford,” she says. “I’m sure you’re familiar with her work.”

Corey stiffens as soon as they mention Verity’s name. Of course we’re familiar with her work. Everyone is. I hazard a glance in Jeremy’s direction. Is Verity his wife? They share a last name. He said downstairs that his wife is a writer. But why would he be in a meeting about her? A meeting she isn’t even here for?

“We’re familiar with the name,” Corey says, holding his cards close.

“Verity has a very successful series we would hate to see go unfinished,” Amanda continues. “Our goal is to bring in a writer who is willing to step in, finish the series, complete the book tours, press releases, and whatever else is normally required of Verity. We plan to put out a press release introducing the new co-writer while also preserving as much of Verity’s privacy as possible.”



by COLLEEN HOOVER

Lowen Ashleigh is a struggling writer on the brink of financial ruin when she accepts the job offer of a lifetime. Jeremy Crawford, husband of bestselling author Verity Crawford, has hired Lowen to complete the remaining books in a successful series his injured wife is unable to finish.

Lowen arrives at the Crawford home, ready to sort through years of Verity's notes and outlines, hoping to find enough material to get her started. What Lowen doesn't expect to uncover in the chaotic office is an unfinished autobiography Verity never intended for anyone to read. Page after page of bone-chilling admissions, including Verity's recollection of what really happened the day her daughter died.

Lowen decides to keep the manuscript hidden from Jeremy, knowing its contents would devastate the already grieving father. But as Lowen's feelings for Jeremy begin to intensify, she recognizes all the ways she could benefit if he were to read his wife's words. After all, no matter how devoted Jeremy is to his injured wife, a truth this horrifying would make it impossible for him to continue to love her.

ADD TO GOODREADS

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~MEET COLLEEN HOOVER~
Colleen Hoover is the New York Times bestselling author of nine novels, including the #1 bestseller, Hopeless. She lives in Texas with her husband and three children. She is the founder of The Bookworm Box, a book subscription service which donates 100% of its proceeds to charity. She also owns The Bookworm Box, a specialty bookstore located in Sulphur Springs, Tx.

~CONNECT WITH COLLEEN~

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Friday, December 7, 2018

Book Review and Giveaway for Bad Reputation by SL Scott


BAD REPUTATION
by SL SCOTT

~~~Being Bad Never Felt So Good~~~

Being bad never felt so good.

I fell for Ally the moment I saw her. Who doesn’t like a confident, intelligent woman with curves I could spend days exploring?

Who am I kidding?
I have.
Many times.

Our story ended abruptly when she packed her bags and left like we weren’t meant to be. We are. So I’m calling her bluff. That’s how I ended up thousands of miles from home, standing next to a man who claims to be her fiancé.

Being good has never felt so bad.

When it comes to a successful man with an incredible body and biteable jaw aka Hutton . . . let’s just say willpower is not my strong suit.

Need more?
Try bad-boy American.
You’re welcome.

Embracing my newfound good girl status, I do the right thing to start my reign. My desires no longer matter. The monarchy, the people, and my country do. There is no place for love in this new life.

But I never expected to see him again, much less standing next to my royally appointed soon-to-be fiancé.

As if that didn’t complicate things, he’s wearing a perfectly tailored tuxedo and my favorite smirk. I straighten my crown and adjust my dress, realizing this good girl never stood a chance. I’ll take the bad reputation if I get him.

~Being Bad Never Felt So Good~


REVIEW: 4 STARS
"There's nothing rational about we've become so fast, but it doesn't scare me. Time is a number. I'm good with numbers and facts."

My FIRST book by SL Scott and now I matter of factly know that I have an arsenal of books to catch up on!! I have been purchasing and promoting her releases on my blog because they have always sounded so good, I just never had time to jump on a tour or squeeze one in and now that I have read her, I know that needs to be remedied!!

TALKING POINTS: 
Ok....so this is billed as a standalone, but for those that love the WHOLE story and like to read in order, this follows Everest, which is Hutton's brother's story. But, saying that, I didn't get any spoilers nor did I feel like I was missing any part of the story whatsoever. In my opinion, this was the way to write a standalone in an interconnected series. If anything, it made me want to read Everest sooner than later to get HIS story! I loved meeting Ethan and Singer, but am completely excited to read Bennett's now too.

Also, the cover....hot, right? So much so and I agree. But I feel like it was a title aimed towards Ally, but with the cover of Hutton. It was an interesting mix of cover and title and how it played into the whole story.

I got to feel a love that seemed impossible. I got to read about a man that knew what he wanted and wasn't taking no for an answer. I got to fall in love with a heroine that had a pretty strong lead in this book, and she was quite admirable. This one just worked all around for me!! Hutton was absolutely delicious for all that he was. He was a successful man, but of course....you know how they do: PLAYER!! Well, that was most definitely not who Hutton was. Hutton's voice was very distinguishing. It was so easy to feel the alpha in him, but so good to see the man underneath that was so desperately in love with his girl. He had the outward appearances down pat, but the crux of who he was on the inside was completely and happily discovered by Ally. I think it was much to his shock and amusement that she did too, and that was wonderful to witness. I loved watching him fall in love, but the treat for me was watching Ally come to terms with her own strength - and not the one she was born and raised to be. There was an exploration of love between these two that wasn't supposed to happen, so seeing the fight brought out in these characters was awesome. A love that was determined to win.

Nothing like settling into a fairytale and holding on throughout the smiles. This wasn't a heavy book by any means. It wasn't angsty in the slightest. What it was was a light and fun, easy read. One that I would happily recommend for after the heavy, heart hitting, emotional reads or if you need a feel good, sweet and sexy read to keep you on a book high. SL Scott will be a new first pick for me to grab when I need a great storyline with a comfortable flow. This book was such a great introduction to her style and voice for me. Her voice wasn't muddled, her characters were well fleshed out, and her storyline wasn't overly dramatic - which I completely appreciate. All in all, I cannot wait to read more from her! This was most definitely a win for me in terms of reading a new to me author.

"I'm not leaving anything to chance because we may have been fate, but it's up to us to create our destiny."
~BEE

PURCHASE BAD REPUTATION


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~MEET SL SCOTT~
New York Times and USA Bestselling Author, S. L. Scott, was always interested in the arts. She grew up painting, writing poetry and short stories, and willing her days away lost in a good book and the movies.

With a degree in Journalism, she continued her love of the written word by reading American authors like Salinger and Fitzgerald. She was intrigued by their flawed characters living in picture perfect worlds, but could still debate that the world those characters lived in were actually the flawed ones. This dynamic of leaving the reader invested in the words, inspired Scott to start writing with emotion while interjecting an underlying passion into her own stories.

Living in the capital of Texas with her family, Scott loves traveling and avocados, beaches, and cooking with her kids. She's obsessed with epic romances and loves a good plot twist. She dreams of seeing one of her own books made into a movie one day as well as returning to Europe. Her favorite color is blue, but she likens it more toward the sky than the emotion. Her home is filled with the welcoming symbol of the pineapple and finds surfing a challenge though she likes to think she's a pro.

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