Friday, July 18, 2014

First Class to New York by AJ Harmon





Book Description

Janie Anderson, a year after losing her husband, her high school sweetheart and the love of her life to cancer, embarks on a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to New York City. Trying to escape the oppressive loss and hopelessness of a life without him, Janie sets off on the adventure she has dreamed about since she was a little girl. Exploring the Big Apple, New York City, she secretly hopes that this landmark event will free her from her grief and unlock a future as wonderful as the life she had lost with Robert’s passing.

After a series of embarrassing encounters with a wealthy man in a dark grey suit during the flight, Janie wonders if this trip might be more than she bargained for. At 42, she is much too young to spend the rest of her days as a lonely widow, but is resolved to the fact that, like lightning, a love like that of her first marriage rarely strikes twice and doesn’t believe in second chances.

When she accepts his invitation to dinner that evening, Janie is terrified at the realization that she’s actually attracted to him. The handsome and wealthy Matt Lathem is sexy as hell, but, as Janie comes to realize, he has baggage of his own. Can they help to heal each other in time to realize that a second chance at love is within their grasp? Or will this romance of lust be a fling that ends with a broken heart when this once in a lifetime vacation comes to an end. 


My Review

I really enjoyed this story and can't wait to find out what happens next with Janie and Matt in First Class to Portland. I loved the interaction between the two characters. They are both mature individuals, from different backgrounds. Janie is learning to live again after the passing of her husband. Matt learns that not all women are like his ex-wives and the women he's chosen to date in the past. AJ Harmon tells a wonderful story about second chances.

***For those of you who don't like cliff hangers, be advised that this is a cliff-hanger and the story continues in "First Class to Portland".***

Buy Links

Amazon (free) - www.amazon.com
Barnes & Noble (free) - www.bn.com
iBooks ($4.99) - iBooks
Kobo (free) - www.kobo.com
Smashwords (free) - www.smashwords.com

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Drawing for "Christmas on Mimosa Lane" by Anna DeStefano

Hi Everyone!


I've copied the information below from an email I received. If you would like to enter a drawing to receive a free copy of "Christmas on Mimosa Lane", by Anna DeStefano, follow the instructions at the bottom of the notice. You will have to manually enter the email address as the link will not work. This was a copy/paste from an email newsletter I received.

Good Luck and Happy Reading!

~Jodi



Tuesday, December 3, 2013

We Roam the Seas - New Cover, repost of review


http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17739411-we-roam-the-seas
Theresa Marguerite Hewitt is a self-published, independent author of paranormal and military romances. TMH (as she is referred to by her rapidly growing fan base) consistently brings to life strong, emotional characters that have to face and overcome many challenges in their lives. The characters do not have "happily ever after" thrown at their feet and they do not always make the best of choices, but they will fight like hell for what they believe in and defend their loved ones with everything they have inside them.

"We Roam The Seas", is the first book in TMH's newest series, "The Viking Dreams Series". Once again, the author has brought to life a couple that has to face several challenges in their growing relationship. Freya is the daughter of a Viking chief, that is forced into a marriage to protect herself and her people against an evil that is starting to spread across the land. Asgar wasn't worried about finding a wife, but once he meets Freya, he is quickly drawn to her. The attraction is quick and powerful between them. As their relationship grows, they are faced with several challenges that will test them both.

This story delivers all the things readers have come to expect from this awesome writer, and then some. It is brimming with love, betrayal, heart-break, sadness and lots & lots of passion!!! I held my breath during the fight scenes, cheering on the heroes, and praying the villains would get a well deserved butt-kicking. The sex scenes were so well done, that I wanted a cigarette afterwards! LOL  I held my breath throughout the book and as usual, I can't wait to see what this FREAKIN' AWESOME writer brings us next!!!!

 
Buy links
Amazon:

Barnes and Noble:

Smashwords:

iTunes:

FaceBook page for Theresa Marguerite Hewitt


Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Cover Reveal for VIP by M Robinson



Synopsis: 

The beginning- A point in time or space where something starts. 
32 year old Sebastian Vanwell, was a very successful yacht broker, who always loved the design and architecture of a luxurious yacht. His only addiction was being on the water. He loved it, he thrived on it, and he needed it in his life. After a very stable, loving child hood with a few bumps, Sebastian married the love of his life. The one person that he knew would always be there. Julia was his rock, and he loved her more than life itself. Sebastian kept his addiction to the water under control, wanting to keep his time with his wife and son his number one obsession, that was until he saw her. This new addiction haunted him, the one compulsion that he couldn’t control no matter how hard he tried. 

Ysabelle Telle hit him hard, knocking the wind from his lungs. Coming from worlds apart, beautiful, dark complexion Ysabelle Telle didn’t have the rich, protected background that Sebastian Vanwell had. Ysabelle lived a life of hell, in poverty, growing up with a drug addict mother that never cared, and horrific living conditions. Ysabelle lived for one person and one person only; herself. She was pure perfection, her beauty along with a flawless body had men lined up, driveling over her insuring her success as a VIP. 

There are too many words that describe the effects when two diverse worlds like theirs collide. They both have too much to lose to get caught in the forceful pull, which could destroy them both.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and drug use. Intended for mature audiences.


Author Bio:

M. Robinson loves to read. She favors anything that has angst, romance, triangles, cheating, love, and of course sex! She has been reading since the Babysitters Club and R.L. Stein. 

She was born in New Jersey but was raised in Tampa Fl. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D in psychology, with two years left. 

She is married to an amazing man who she loves to pieces. They have two German Shepherd mixes and a Tabby 

Her debut novel VIP will be released in December 2013. Add it to your TBR list!!

Connect with M. Robinson:








Monday, November 25, 2013

Book Tour - Hot, Sexy & Bad!

Hi Everyone! It's my pleasure to host this book tour for "Hot, Sexy, & Bad!". This is a collection of holiday novellas by 8 best selling authors! Oh, to have just one of these "hotties" to unwrap under my tree on Christmas morning! Mmmmm! LOL

**Hot, Sexy and Bad is now live on Amazon!** 

 Amazon: US: http://www.amazon.com/Hot-Sexy-Holiday-Novella-Collection-ebook/dp/B00GW9DQ36/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1385365749&sr=1-1&keywords=Hot%2C+Sexy+%26+Bad+%28A+Holiday+Novella+Collection 

 Amazon UK: http://m.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.co.uk%2FHot-Sexy-Holiday-Novella-Collection-ebook%2Fdp%2FB00GW9DQ36%2Fref%3Dsr_1_9%3Fie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1385353958%26sr%3D8-9%26keywords%3Dhot%2Bsexy%2Band%2Bbad&h=sAQGabQ2T&s=1 




This Holiday Season grab the gift everyone wants. Eight BRAND NEW novellas by Eight Best Selling Authors that will light your fire and warm your heart. But be warned, unwrap this collection with caution! 

Hot, Sexy and Bad: A Holiday Collection features original novellas written by New York Times, USA Today and Bestselling Authors: 

New York Times Best Seller Judy Angelo’s Rome for the Holidays’ 

Sexy as sin… 

Arie Angelis is floored when she lays eyes on the handsome hunk seated at the head table at the holiday event she's catering. When she finds out who he is, she realizes he's way out of reach. But you can't stop a girl from dreaming...

Rome Milano is used to getting what he wants but when he meets the hot and heavenly Arie Angelis he learns that he can't always have his way. He's used to calling the shots, but not this time. 

New York Times Best Seller Melody Anne’s Holiday Treasure: An Anderson Series Novella

Tanner Storm — rich as sin, disgustingly handsome, and an unwilling slumlord — is sentenced to live in his run-down building for two weeks, and to top it off, he has to play Santa. He sees only one good thing about house arrest — his spirited neighbor, Kyla. If he gets her into his bed, maybe he’ll forget the leaking pipes, the defective heating, and the mice. Her tragic past makes her a bit vulnerable, but he’ll be out of her life after Christmas Day. No problem. 

New York Times Best Seller Kathleen Brooks's Dancing Beneath the Mistletoe 

This is an extended sneak peek into the first book of Kathleen Brooks' new Women of Power series. 

Elle Simpson's days revolve around expanding the family business into a global conglomerate. Work has left her no time to find Prince Charming. 

Drake Charles hosts a masquerade ball each year in hopes of finding true love. This year's event is unlike any other when a mysterious masked beauty steals his heart and ignites his passions. 

Will this night of romance lead to a happily ever after? 

New York times Best Seller Ruth Cardello’s Recipe for Love: An Andrade Christmas Novella 

A Novella based on The Legacy Collection. 

Before Abby met Dominic. Before Nicole and Stephan got back together. Confessed secrets drove Madison Andrade away from her family and into the arms of an arrogant, lusty Frenchman. All she wants for Christmas is a place to hide, but she cooks up much more than that in their short time together. 

Richard D’Argenson is gaining fame for his talent in the kitchen, but he’s missing the most important ingredient to any recipe—love.

Will he find it in the steamy night they spend together, and can what they share survive an Andrade Christmas invasion? 

USA Today Best Seller Lynn Raye Harris’s Hot Package: A Hostile 
Operations Team novella. 

When Olivia Reese stumbles onto evidence of a conspiracy, there’s only one man she can call for help. Billy “The Kid” Blake is a Hostile Operations Team soldier—and Olivia’s former lover. 

Billy never forgot the woman who walked out on him, and he’ll do anything he can to keep her safe. But as time runs out and the snow piles up, can Billy and Olivia work together without getting involved again? 

USA Today Best Seller Sandra Marton's The Gift 

Kazimir Savitch is a wildly successful investment fund manager, but there was a time he was a soldier in Special Ops. Sometimes, he misses that excitement. 

Ekaterina Rostov is the daughter of a scheming and ruthless billionaire who will do whatever it takes to win more power. 

That’s why he’s arranged Katie’s marriage to a dissolute prince—and why Kaz will do whatever it takes to prevent the marriage, especially after he and Katie spend a passionate weekend in his bed. 

Shadonna Richards’s The Belmont Christmas Bride: The Bride Series 

Olivia McAlister is getting married in the morning on Christmas Day. Her three hundred guests are booked into the hotel and family members from out of the country have arrived—too bad her groom just called off the wedding. 

In steps the hot, sexy and mysterious general manager of the hotel, Dane Romano. He’s not a marrying man but he sure as hell doesn’t want this pretty young thing’s day to be a total loss. Will he come to her rescue? 

'Tis the Season…for romantic miracles! 

Danielle Stewart’s Half My heart: A Clover Series Novella 

This is an introductory novella to Danielle Stewart's new Clover Series. 

At eighteen, Devin Sutton lost his first love, his freedom, and his hope. Years later, the only thing he has on his mind for this holiday season is finally settling the score back in Clover, North Carolina. 

That is, until he crosses paths with the girl he thought he’d lost forever. Rebecca Farrus was supposed to be off living the life of her dreams, not tending bar in some dive. 

When faced with the choice will Devin decide to celebrate what he’s finally found or keep seeking retribution for everything he lost? 


Judy Angelo:

New York Times and USA Today Best-Selling Author

- # 7 most popular contemporary romance author, April 2013
- #38 best-selling author in the overall store, April 2013
- 8 novels hit the top 50 in their categories
- Recent novel, Her Indecent Proposal, hit #23 on the top 100 best-seller list

I'm a lover of all things romance - novels, poetry, flowers and chocolate (Snickers and chocolate covered peanuts are my favorite). I also love visiting romantic destinations - the sunny beaches of the Caribbean and romantic European cities including London and Paris. My idea of heaven - a comfy lawn chair on the beach in the shade of a palm tree, with a sizzling romance novel and a pina colada. When I'm not writing I'm studying Psychology. I find the field of study fascinating. My book shelves are loaded with the stuff (right next to tons of romance novels). Reading is my life!


Melody Anne:


Melody Anne is the author of the popular series, Billionaire Bachelors, and Baby for the Billionaire. She also has a Young Adult Series out; Midnight Fire and Midnight Moon - Rise of the Dark Angel. She's been writing for years and published in 2011. She hold a bachelors degree in business, so she loves to write about strong, powerful, businessmen.

When Melody isn't writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and pets. She lives in a small town that she loves, and is involved in many community projects.

She makes it a point to respond to all her fans. She looks forward to hearing from you and hopes you enjoy her stories.


Kathleen Brooks: 
Kathleen Brooks is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of the Bluegrass Series and Bluegrass Brothers Series. She has garnered attention as a new voice in romance with a warm Southern feel. Her books feature quirky small town characters you'll feel like you've known forever, romance, humor, and mystery all mixed into one perfect glass of sweet tea.


Kathleen is an animal lover who supports rescue organizations and other non-profit organizations, such as Friends and Vets Helping Pets, whose goals are to protect and save our four-legged family members.

Kathleen lives in Central Kentucky with her husband, daughter, two dogs, and a cat who thinks he's a dog. She loves to hear from readers and can be reached at Kathleen@Kathleen-Brooks.com.


Ruth Cardello: 
NY Times and USA TODAY Bestselling Author of the Legacy Collection and the Texan Nights Series

Ruth Cardello lives on a small farm in Northern Rhode Island with her husband, three kids, three dogs, two horses, and some assorted chickens. If there is a happier place on Earth, she hasn't found it.

If you'd like to email her directly, you may contact her at Minouri@aol.com


Lynn Raye Harris: 
USA Today bestselling author Lynn Raye Harris burst onto the scene when she won a writing contest held by Harlequin. A former finalist for the Romance Writers of America's Golden Heart Award and the National Readers Choice Award, Lynn lives in Alabama with her handsome former military husband and two crazy cats. Lynn writes about hot military heroes, sizzling international billionaires, and the women who dare to tame them. Her books have been called "exceptional and emotional," "intense," and "sizzling."


Sandra Marton: 


Sandra is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, award-winning romances. Her heroes are Alphas and her stories will touch your heart.

I live in New England now but I was born in New York City and lived in or near the city most of my life. It's where I met my husband--I was fifteen and a senior in high school! He was at both my high school and college graduations. We have a lot of shared, wonderful history.

After we married, I taught elementary school for a while. Then I settled into being a wife and mother but the desire to write was always there. I'd written short stories when I was little--the first, which I illustrated myself, I wrote when I was seven! I never really stopped writing and one day I looked in the mirror and said, "Okay, Sandra, you've always wanted to be a published writer. Maybe it's time you did something about it."

I'd always been interested in the complex ways in which men and women relate to each so it seemed natural to start writing romance fiction. I wrote short stories and sold several of them. Finally, I took a deep breath, sat down and wrote my very first novel. To my amazement and joy, Harlequin Presents bought it.


Shadonna Richards:
#1 KINDLE BESTSELLING ROMANCE AUTHOR
AMAZON'S TOP 50 MOST POPULAR AUTHORS IN CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

Shadonna Richards enjoys reading and writing about the magic of romance and the power of love. She has sold over 260,000 copies of her bestselling romance novels, the Bride Series and Whirlwind Romance Series, in the past eighteen months. Born in London, England, she has a B.A. Degree in Psychology and a Diploma in Nursing. Winner of Harlequin's So You Think You Can Write 2010 Day Two Challenge, she is also a member of Romance Writers of America. She's a proud mommy and wife and lives in Canada with her husband and son.
AUTHOR CONTACT: Email: shadonna@ymail.com


Danielle Stewart: 
Writing is a way to make a lot of different people do exactly what you want them to do. When I can’t get my toddler to listen to me, I turn to my characters. They always cooperate!

I currently live in Charlotte, North Carolina with my husband and three year old son. I have perfected the ability to write in a noisy house and create story lines while folding laundry.

Chasing Justice is book one in my Piper Anderson Series. It follows the evolution of a woman who feels unworthy of love and introduces a colorful and endearing cast of characters who are hellbent on proving her wrong. Due to be released in May 2013 with additional books to follow closely behind.

I love hearing from my readers and always answers all of my email personally. Join my mailing list for updates on contests and new book releases!



Purchase Links:

iTunes | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble

Island Lovelies Book Club will be having flash giveaway's throughout the day for a chance to win an ecopy of Hot, Bad & Sexy. Make sure to pop over for a chance to win.

Saturday, November 16, 2013

My Kind of Trouble (Texas Trouble, #1) by Becky McGraw


This is the first time I've read anything by Becky McGraw, and I was not disappointed. I've found a "new" author to add to my Favorites list. :)

I'm a big fan of Steffen Hughes (www.steffenhughes.com), and he recently did a photo shoot for the cover of Becky's newest Texas Trouble novel. Now like any warm-blooded woman out there, for me the cover art is 90% of the reason I chose a book to read, and with Steffen on the cover, I can "legally" drool all I want without getting into trouble. ;-)   Anyway, I went to Becky's Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/beckymcgrawbooks), said hi and gave her a "Like". When I explained that I have a blog for reviewing books, she was kind enough to provide me a free copy of "My Kind of Trouble" to read and review.

So, on to the review! :-)

"My Kind of Trouble" is the first book in the "Texas Trouble" series. the story is about Cassie Bellamy and Luke Matthews. Cassie left her hometown 10 years before and planned to never return. When her father is injured, she returns home to help out on his ranch while he recovers. When Cassie left town, she also left behind her boyfriend, Luke Matthews.


A lot has happened in the 10 years they've been apart. Cassie now has a successful real estate business and a new fiance. Luke, who was once the town bad boy, is now the town Sheriff. Of course the pair are destined to run into each other again, and the sparks are still flying between them. Will Cassie and Luke be able to overcome the hurt feelings and misunderstandings of the past, or will they be destined to remain apart?

Becky McGraw has done a great job of writing a set of characters that are believable and easy to relate to. Luke and Cassie do not have an easy time overcoming their past and several things occur to try to keep them apart. I enjoyed the fact that even though I knew Cassie and Luke would get their HEA (after all this IS a romance novel), it wasn't a smooth ride for either of them.

I can't wait to start reading the rest of the books in this series. I admit that when it comes to choosing genres of romance novels, Cowboy/Western themed romances aren't always my first pick. But after this particular book, they are quickly moving up the list. :-)

So go check out Becky McGraw's "My Kind of Trouble". I give it a 4 1/2 out of 5 stars! 

Sunday, November 3, 2013

Cali Mackay Blog Tour


Book Synopsis:

Lucy’s been scouring through her ancestor’s journal in the hope of finding the long lost pirate treasure of Mermaid Isle. But when a sexy stranger walks into her bookstore looking like the very pirates she’s been reading about, she can’t ignore their immediate attraction and soon finds herself throwing caution to the wind and falling for Niall. 

Niall’s one goal is to find the treasure his ancestors buried, but he only has one half of the puzzle and he’s convinced that Lucy Nordson holds the other half. If he had to charm someone, then he could do a hell of a lot worse than the gorgeous and talented redhead, but he soon finds himself torn when his hunt for the treasure and the lies he’s told to find it, get in the way of what his heart truly wants. 

With the stakes high and their deceptions getting in the way, can they find the treasure and true love or will they risk it all in the end? 

*This is the second book in the Mermaid Isle Romance Series, though it can stand alone and is a complete novel that does not end on a cliff hanger. Due to the adult content, this is NOT for readers under 18 years of age and contains a dominant alpha male that may not be to everyone's tastes.*

For Love or Treasure 
A Mermaid Isle Romance 
By Cali MacKay (Sample)

Chapter One 

Lucy Nordson seldom worked with the original leather-bound diary she’d inherited, knowing the ancient gold gilt pages were too fragile to handle, and fully aware that the secrets held there might someday uncover the find of a lifetime. Chances were slim that she’d ever discover the long-lost pirate treasure of Mermaid Isle, and yet she had to believe she’d one day piece together enough of the clues to find the stash her pirate ancestor had buried hundreds of years earlier. 
Hundreds of years…and yet the Delphine’s treasure still remained elusive. A few pieces would occasionally turn up—the odd coin usually—but nothing more substantial. Just enough to keep the legend going. 
Setting aside her notebook and working copy of her ancestor’s diary, she slid away from her desk behind the old and battered wood counter of her shop and went to get herself a cup of coffee. Her giant pup spared her a glance, but was too lazy to bother following her without the guarantee of food. Come summer, Mermaid Isle would be hopping with tourists, but it was only April and this was Maine. The weather was still too cold and unpredictable to get too many visitors, and so it was just her and Watson for now. 
The Book Nook Café stayed open year round—for the most part. It gave the locals a place to hang out, pick up a new read, and get their caffeine buzz going, though Lucy knew 
better than to expect many customers past her morning regulars. And truth be told, that was fine by her. The summer months were crazy and she liked her down time, since it afforded her the opportunity to take care of her other interests—like the Delphine’s treasure. 
Lucy shuffled off in her shearling boots, mentally contemplating which coffee concoction she’d have. That was the other good thing about the slower winter months—she got to experiment with the selection of coffee and baked goods she offered in the café portion of her book store. 
After mentally going through the recipes she’d been working on for her new coffee flavorings, she decided on a macchiato laced with a mixture of sea salt caramel and then a second syrup of burnt sugar and Irish whiskey that she still wasn’t sure would make it into her lineup. 
The smell of fresh coffee filled the air as her espresso machine hissed and spit, making it sound like it was possessed by some demon. She topped her coffee with a generous amount of hot frothy milk, and then drizzled the luscious brew with the syrups she’d chosen. 
Mug in hand, she wandered back to her notes, circumventing the hundred and thirty pounds of black lab and Dane mix, and got back to work on her treasure hunt. If nothing else, it gave her something else to do during the slow winter months. 
She’d managed to track down mention of the Delphine’s treasure prior to her ancestor getting his hands on it, but it had been an elusive prize even back then. Her ancestor, Bjorn Eirikson, had been a notorious pirate in his time, but his fierce rival Ronan Campbell also had his eye on the treasure. That had been sometime in the seventeen hundreds, from what she could tell. 
She took a long sip of her coffee and checked the time. In another half an hour, her best friend, Riley, would be stopping by with an armful of wedding magazines to discuss her 
upcoming nuptials to Thorsen. Lucy couldn’t be happier for her, though it did leave her wondering if she’d ever find that special someone. She hadn’t had the best of luck with men, usually falling for guys who seemed sweet at first, and then turned out to be jerks. It’s not that she was in any rush, but she was sliding towards thirty and it’d be nice to have someone in her life who didn’t drool and shed. 
"Not that I’d be replacing you." She reached down and gave his big cow head a scratch, the dog far too used to her ramblings by now. Well, who else was she going to talk to? 
The bell on her door rang out with a delicate tinkle, pulling her from her thoughts and announcing the arrival of a customer. She tucked her notebook and journal aside before looking up, half thinking Riley had shown up early. 
But that sure as hell wasn’t Riley, and she nearly pinched herself to make sure that she hadn’t just conjured up the man—the pirate—gracing her doorway. It was as if he’d jumped off the pages of her journal. 
He had thick, dark hair just long enough to make her think he’d once worn it long, broad muscular shoulders, eyes the color of sapphires, scruffy stubble on a strong jawline, and a couple of small silver hoops through each ear. Add to that a broken-in leather jacket the color of bittersweet chocolate, worn jeans, and some rugged biker boots, and the image of a modern-day pirate was complete. 
Oh...my... 
She got to her feet and found they were a bit wobblier than she’d last remembered them, making her debate whether or not she should attempt to walk out from behind the counter. He was definitely not a local and he sure as hell hadn’t been on the island long. Because Lucy knew 
all the locals, and if he’d been in town more than twenty-four hours, he’d have had the gossip mill buzzing. A man like the one standing before her did not go unnoticed. 
And then he smiled at her. Not just any smile, but the kind that unleashed a gaggle of butterflies in her stomach and forced her to grab at the counter to keep from melting into a puddle of want and need. 
Because, damn…there was no way any hot-blooded woman could not want him. 
How she managed to find her voice, she hadn't a clue. And it even sounded somewhat normal, albeit breathy. "Welcome to the Book Nook. Let me know if I can help in any way." 
In. Any. Way. 
And then his smile kicked up another notch and his eyes locked on hers, sparkling like the summer sun hitting the ocean waves. "I appreciate the offer, lass." 
Lass? Who said lass anymore? And oh…was that an accent of some sort? Damn if the man wasn’t going to have her swooning like some damsel. And she was so not the damsel type—normally. But hey, if he was the one catching her, then she was happy to swoon away. 
"I don’t suppose you’d have any books on the history of the island?" The accent wasn’t anything full-blown, just enough to have you wondering if you’d actually heard it. Almost as if he’d grown up on this side of the pond, but his parents were originally from some distant land. 
"Sure." She took a tentative step to make sure her legs would support her and then wandered over to his side of the counter, ignoring the oh please look her mutt was giving her. "Are you looking for more current books that have been written on the island or older, out-of-print books?" 
"I suppose a bit of both." He followed behind her as she moved through the bookstore, his long legs allowing him to easily keep up with her, making him appear to casually amble as if he hadn’t a care in the world. 
The building had once been an old mercantile and many of the details, like the old pine plank flooring with its hand-forged nails, the rough-hewn wood beams and best of all, the large stone fireplace, remained intact. It was also large enough to comfortably house her bookstore and the café. 
"Over here is the section with the more recently published books on the island. You’ll see that they’re then organized further by subject. The older, out-of-print books are on the shelves in the café area but they’re mixed in with newer second-hand stock." She walked around the corner, circumventing the plush armchairs and sofas to find the bookcase she wanted. "Here’s the section you’re looking for, though the selection is somewhat limited." 
"I appreciate the help." He turned to face her, and suddenly it seemed like the distance between them had evaporated and he was standing awfully close. Close enough for her to see that his blue eyes held flecks of gold in them. His smile kicked up on one side, making her think he knew exactly the sort of effect he was having on her. And then he ran a gentle thumb over the corner of her lips as his fingers nearly cupped her cheek. "You have a little something here." 
Her tongue darted out to lick where his touch had just been, and his smile went sultry. "Caramel. And sea salt. Whiskey too." She was rambling. His touch had fried her brain. 
And then he brought his thumb to his lips and half bit, half licked off what he’d wiped from her lips. "So it is. Pretty damn tasty." 
By the gods, she nearly had a coronary then and there. Her heart was racing and her thundering pulse was deafening in her head, though it was nothing compared to the echo she felt in the girly bits between her legs. 
Heat had her cheeks roasting, and she knew that her cursedly pale skin must be redder than a baboon’s ass in winter. She took a step back and tried to focus on something other than how long it had been since she’d last had a man’s hands on her. "I’ll…um…be at my desk. Holler if you need anything." 
"Anything…?" His gaze danced over her face and then her body, before settling back on her eyes. And the way he said that word, with all its implied meaning and innuendo…Crap. He could be reciting the frigging dictionary and it would have her getting hot and bothered. "I don’t think I caught your name. I’m Niall." 
He put out his hand and she took it, trying to ignore the zing of electricity that seemed to come from his mere touch. And his hands…bloody hell, his hands were big and just a little rough, and they looked capable—capable of oh so much. 
"Lucy." Sole proprietor of the Book Nook Café and having very, very indecent thoughts about her new customer. "Will you be staying on Mermaid Isle for any length of time or are you just passing through? I could"—drag you off to my bed—"try to locate any books you need if we don’t have them in stock." 
"I really like what I’ve seen of the island so far, so I might stay for a wee bit." The way he said it and the way he looked at her with that intense, sultry gaze made her think that he might not be talking about the island alone. "Might look into renting a place for a month. Maybe two. I noticed there’s a carriage house in the rear of the shop. Don’t suppose that’d be available? I like how central it is to town." 
"Sorry. That’s actually my place. Makes it an easy commute in the winter, especially when I have to get up early to bake. But I could ask around. There are plenty of homes that are used only as summer residences." Lucy tried not to think of the trouble she could get into if this man was wandering about the island for the next few months. And just like that, she felt another flush of heat bloom across her cheeks. 
"I’d appreciate the help. I don’t know anyone on the island—except for you, now." 
The door chimed once more, and she decided she best make her escape before she tackled the poor man onto the sofa, or blushed any worse than she already had. "Gotta get that." 
"I know where to find you if I need help with anything." He stuck his hands in the pockets of his worn, and yet oh so perfectly fitting jeans, and gave her a parting smile that nearly had her walking into a bookcase. 
She made a quick recovery, hoping he didn’t notice and yet sure he had, before turning the corner to find Riley in the front of the store. Knowing her hunky pirate couldn’t see her from where she’d left him, she grabbed Riley’s arm, nearly dislodging the stack of magazines Riley was holding against her chest, and dragged her friend to the back room of the store. 
"Okay…what was that about, crazy woman?" Riley laughed and put the magazines on a nearby table, before bending down to pet Watson. Since Riley was one of his favorite humans, he’d actually gotten up off the floor and was now wagging his tail hard enough to take out small buildings in its path. 
"Words fail me." Lucy nearly picked up a magazine to start fanning herself. "Looks like we might have a new visitor to the island and he is…oh so very nice." 
"Ah! Nice, huh?" Riley let out a laugh and poked her head out past the doorway. "Is he still here? I might just have to check out this nice guy for myself." 
"He’s in the café." And then it occurred to her that Riley might be able to cut Niall a deal on one of her cottages up at the Siren Song Inn. "Actually, he’s looking for a place to stay for a month or two. Given that it’s the off-season, I don’t suppose you have any deals going?" 
"Sure. Most of the rooms and cottages stay empty this time of year anyway, so I’d be happy to." Riley then bumped her shoulder with hers and gave her a teasing smile. "Not to mention, it might do you some good to have a handsome distraction around before things get crazy for the summer." 
"I don’t know what you’re talking about, cupcake, but it’s clear your mind’s in the gutter on account of all that sex you’ve been having with that big ole Viking of yours." Not that Riley was fooling anyone. They’d been the best of friends for close to a decade, and they knew each other like they were twins. "That said, I may as well introduce you while he’s still here." 
"To have you, of all people, reacting like this?" Riley’s eyebrows perked up with amusement. "I cannot wait to meet him." 
"Come on then." Lucy just shook her head with a smile and led the way. They found him in the far corner of the café, squatting in front of one of the bookshelves, his back to them. 
Niall must have heard them coming, because he turned in their direction and stood, a smile dancing on his lips. Riley threw her a sideways glance, her eyes discreetly wide with excitement—and that could only mean Riley would be grilling her later. 
"Niall, this is my friend, Riley. She might be able to help you with those room accommodations." Lucy took a step back, so they could conduct their business. "I’ll leave you guys to it." 
Grabbing the stack of bridal magazines, Lucy got settled in at her desk and polished off the rest of her coffee before it went completely cold. Each of the magazines bristled with colored 
sticky notes, no doubt color-coded. She flipped through the pages, making note of the gowns Riley seemed to like. Nothing over the top, especially since she’d be getting married outdoors by the ocean cliffs near the inn. Mostly elegant A-lines or flowing sheaths with just enough detail to make them special. Riley would be gorgeous—not that she needed a wedding gown for that. 
Best of all, the bridesmaid dresses were no less elegant. She might not have many opportunities to wear the dress again, but at least she’d look great on the big day. 
She could hear them coming, Niall’s voice deep and rich, whereas Riley’s was light and carrying a tone of humor. Lucy could tell that her friend hadn’t been fully immune to the man’s charms. Not that she could blame her. The man oozed the sort of charm and charisma that people were drawn to despite themselves. 
Riley tapped the counter. "I’m going to run. If you have a chance to go through those magazines, just mark the sticky notes of the dresses you like." She then turned back to Niall. "I’ll let the front desk at the Siren know the details of our arrangement. It’s been a pleasure." 
With Riley gone, the butterflies took up residence in her stomach again. "Looks like you found a few books." 
"Also found a place to stay, and for that I need to thank you." Niall put his books on the counter and then leaned against it, closing the distance between them, when Watson finally decided to get up and check out the competition. "Now there’s a big fella. What’s his name?" Niall let Watson have a sniff before giving him a good scratch behind the ears. 
"It’s Watson—the loyal companion. Great dog, though he’d probably roll over to have his belly rubbed at the first sight of a burglar." Unless she was in danger. Then he’d tear them limb from limb. Watson had been a rescue, and Lucy truly believed he appreciated getting a second chance. 
Niall continued to lavish attention on the hairy beast until the dog plopped himself down at the man’s feet, and Niall turned back to her with those bright blue eyes. "Don’t suppose I can take you out to dinner? I owe you big time for helping me get my new digs." 
And pass up going out with her modern-day pirate? Not a chance. "A girl’s gotta eat. Should we say seven?" 
He tugged on one of her red curls and watched it spring back. "Sounds perfect." 

Chapter Two 

Niall pulled his bags out of his old Rover and quickly unpacked, before taking a good look at his new—albeit temporary—home. It was a hell of a lot nicer than most of the places he usually stayed in, and there’d be no chance he could have afforded the place if it wasn’t off-season. Maybe for a week or two, but certainly not for a couple of months. 
There was still a bitter chill in the April air, but Niall now had a nice stone fireplace at his disposal and he had every intention of putting it to good use. He built himself a small enough fire that it’d be out in time for him to go to dinner with Lucy, and then grabbed himself a beer and his pack. Settling in on the long sofa in front of the fire, he pulled out his materials and got to work, doing his best to tamp down his excitement. 
He’d been looking for the Delphine his entire life, just like his father and grandfather before him. And though he knew he’d never been closer to it than he was now, he also knew how elusive hidden treasures could be. His ancestor, Ronan Campbell, was said to have been a clever man and he no doubt used it to his advantage when it came time to stash his treasure and keep it safe. 
He was betting that Ronan and his feisty lass, Molly, had ended up right here on Mermaid Isle. He damn well hoped so, at any rate. With them had been Bjorn Eirikson, another notorious pirate and Ronan’s fierce rival, not only for the spoils and open seas, but for Molly as well. 
And yet they’d set aside their animosity for the Delphine’s treasure and for Molly, whom they both were in love with. 
He knew that wherever there was an island, there were also rumors of pirate treasure, but the latest clues he’d uncovered pointed to Mermaid Isle—and one Lucy Nordson, descendant of Bjorn and already living on the island in question. 
It had taken him awhile to decipher Ronan’s logbook, the leather-bound pages filled with cryptic messages. Add to it the additional headache of it being written in eighteenth-century Gaelic, and it was no wonder that the treasure remained hidden. But there was more. The location was marked on an encrypted map, but that was only one piece to the puzzle. The other piece was a pendant Ronan had specially made. A pendant with a mermaid engraved on the back of it. It could be just a decorative touch, or it could be pointing to Mermaid Isle. 
When the two pirates parted ways, Ronan had the pendant and the girl, and Bjorn had the map. Now all he needed to do was figure out if Lucy had the map in her possession. 
Because the pendant? That was already dangling from around his neck. 

***
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Book Synopsis:

Riley Carter’s never found anyone who could live up to her first love, Thorsen Black. So imagine her surprise when, twelve years later, he shows up at the unique and quirky inn she manages on Mermaid Isle, off the coast of Maine. The sweet, gangly teen has matured into a sexy and handsome man, leaving her heart desperate to pick up where they left off. 

It’s impossible for her to ignore the way her body instantly reacts to his touch and he's just the distraction she needs when she finds out the owners of the Siren Song Inn are selling it to Holt Enterprises. Holt only has eyes on the bottom line and Riley knows they’ll strip the inn of everything that makes it special, ruining not only the Siren, but devastating the island economy. 

While fighting to save her beloved inn, Riley falls in love with Thorsen all over again. But when she’s faced with the real reason Thorsen’s on the island and his unbearable betrayal, will she be able to save the inn and her chance at true happiness?

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Cali's bio:

Cali MacKay lives in New England with her husband, two girls and their crazy mutt. When not tapping away on her laptop and getting her characters into trouble, she can be found designing book covers for other authors, wrangling her girls, and splicing DNA.

She's also a decent potter, adventurous cook, and horrible gardener.

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