Reader’s Edyn

I always felt like I could do something more than just read. Finally, I have found both a creative outlet and a chance to do something meaningful with my reading. This blog was created in appreciation of and tribute to all of the authors who have brought me joy through their books. These reviews are my way of giving back to authors and providing recognition for the hard work that each one completes every day!

Saturday, August 31, 2013

Spotlight with author Tanya Anne Crosby

Spotlight with author Tanya Anne Crosby




Good morning everyone! We are back! Not too long ago, I featured Tanya Anne Crosby on the blog because she had a historical romance out that really caught me. It was exactly the kind of story that made me fall in love with romance to begin with so I HAD to feature it. Today is a bit different because this story is a romantic suspense. Not HR by any means, but I also enjoy knowing when authors write in different genres. It can be fun to see how the writer's voice changes as the genre changes. And I know some of you really enjoy romantic suspense but I do not feature it all that much on the blog. Not to mention, that I really enjoyed featuring this author last time, so I would definitely want to feature her again given the chance. I hope you all enjoy getting to know about this new book as much as I am looking forward to it. Please join me in welcoming back to the blog:



**TANYA ANNE CROSBY**


**BIO**
 
Tanya has written seventeen novels, all of which have graced numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times and USA Today. Best known for stories charged with emotion and humor, and filled with flawed characters, her novels have garnered reader praise and glowing critical reviews. She lives with her husband, two dogs and two cats in northern Michigan.

You can find out more about Ms. Crosby in the following places:







**REVIEWS**
Dangerously addicting. “-Sherrilyn Kenyon #1 New York Times bestselling author

Crosby serves up suspense, secrets and Southern scandal like no one else! “ - Harlan Coben #1 New York Times bestselling author




**SPEAK NO EVIL**
**No Evil #1**

Contemporary Romantic Suspense
Categories: Mystery/Thriller
Publisher: Kensington
Release Date: March 7, 2013
Heat Level: Sensual
Length: 283 pages


**BLURB**

Lifting the veil of secrecy on a grand Southern family in decline, New York Times bestselling author Tanya Anne Crosby explores the lives of Caroline, Augusta, and Savannah Aldridge, three sisters who share a dark past and an uncertain future...Caroline Aldridge was surprised by the number of mourners at her mother's funeral. Evidently the newspaper heiress who had caused her children so much pain was well-loved by everyone else in Charleston. Now she was gone, leaving behind countless secrets--and a few demands: Caroline and her sisters must live together for one year or lose their inheritance. And Caroline must take over The Tribune. But a killer is making headlines, and Caroline may have unwittingly stepped into the crosshairs...

A series of kidnappings and murders resurrect the sisters' memories of their brother's disappearance as a child--and Caroline fears she may be next. Yet in the midst of her turmoil, she may be rekindling a romance she'd extinguished long ago. With Jack back in her life and the tattered bonds of sisterhood slowly mending, Caroline hopes the family can restore its position in Charleston society--unless a sinister force beyond their control tears them apart forever. . .

Buy Links




 
**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.
Together she and Savannah made their way inside, as one by one, neighbors Caroline hadn’t seen in a decade brought sympathy along with their best casseroles. Thanking each for both, she set the food out in the dining room, noting that there was more than enough to feed an army for a year. Maybe they could donate some? She didn’t want it to go to waste and didn’t intend to remain in Charleston beyond the reading of the will. She was pretty sure her sisters had the same idea. Any arrangements that would need to be made could be handled over the phone, via e-mail and fax. That was the beauty of technology.

My dear,” someone said sympathetically, tapping Caroline’s shoulder as she set a third dish of ambrosia salad on the buffet. Unbelievably, there was no more space on the antique Georgian table, even with its six feet of extensions.

Well, hello, Miss Rose!” Caroline exclaimed. “How lovely to see you!” There was no pretense in the greeting. Rose Simmons’s wrinkled face brought back memories of Caroline’s earliest years in this old house, the only good ones she could recall.

Gracious! I wouldn’t have missed it,” Miss Rose said. “Your mother was a wonderful woman. Such a lovely funeral!” she added with unreserved approval. “I hope my children will pay their respects so beautifully!”

A prick of guilt jabbed Caroline. Everything had been prearranged. It was the one thing she could thank her mother for: Flo wasn’t the sort to leave unfinished business. She skirted the compliment. “Well, I’m glad you could make it,” she offered with a smile, and then caught a glimpse of the figure standing in the entrance to the dining room and all thoughts flew out of her head at once.

Oh, before I forget, I brought the greens!” Miss Rose declared. Caroline blinked, her gaze fixed on the man she had nearly married ten years before. “Greens?”

His eyes were as vivid a blue as she recalled, with points of light that dimmed or brightened based on the intensity of his smile. Right now, they were practically electric and Caroline could barely focus.

I don’t know the Greens, Miss Rose. . . .”

Miss Rose chuckled, gently cuffing Caroline’s forearm. “Well, of course you do! You always asked after them and I remembered and brought them!”

Caroline gave the old woman a confused smile, and noticed Jack was smirking, those lights in his eyes dancing impishly. The familiar, playful grin annoyed her far more than it should have.

Miss Rose clasped a hand to her breast. “Poor sweet dear! It must be the shock,” she declared. “That’s quite understandable.” She patted Caroline’s arm consolingly. “Flo’s death was so unexpected!” She shook her head. “Your mother will be sorely missed, but it should cheer you to know they are talking about planting a garden in Waterfront Park in her honor. I hope they do!

The Florence Willodean Aldridge Memorial Garden,” Rose continued, but Caroline was no longer listening. The old woman peered over her shoulder to see what had captured Caroline’s attention and a sudden look of comprehension crossed her features. She smiled knowingly. “Well, goodness! I understand. I shall leave you to your guests, my dear girl. Just make sure you put some of them greens aside for later. I cooked them up just the way you like them, with a nice big ham hock!”

It dawned on Caroline suddenly that the “greens” were not people. Miss Rose had brought mustard greens. And truthfully, she hated them intensely but vaguely recalled being five at Miss Rose’s daughter’s baptism celebration and feeling incredibly guilty about wanting to spit them out. With a quelling look from her mother, she had reluctantly swallowed them and complimented Miss Rose’s greens emphatically—obviously, much too emphatically.

Miss Rose clucked at her, shaking an admonishing finger. “You always were too thin!”

Caroline’s cheeks heated as her mother’s neighbor ambled away, leaving her completely at Jack’s mercy.

The old woman gave Jack a nod on her way out of the dining room and said pleasantly, “Afternoon, Jack.”

Jack greeted her with a smile and a nod. “Afternoon, Miss Rose. You look lovely as ever.”

Miss Rose ducked her head shyly and giggled like a schoolgirl. The instant she was out of earshot, Jack turned the full impact of hisroguish smile on Caroline. “Just make sure you put some of them greens aside for later,” he teased, stirring from the doorframe and strolling into the room with a languor that was both infuriating and reassuring in its familiarity.

I guess your mother never taught you not to eavesdrop,” Caroline said, hating herself for giving in to feelings of resentment.

The twinkles in his eyes vanished. “We both know my mother didn’t teach me much of anything, Caroline.”

He said it calmly, congenially, but Caroline knew she’d hit a nerve. For a long awkward moment, they stood facing one another, neither quite certain what to say. The scent of wilting magnolias drifted between them. Ten years ago, her mother had ordered the flowers as centerpieces for the tables at their wedding. Now, they adorned every corner of the house and Caroline would forever associate the scent with death and sorrow.

Fitting, somehow.

Jack had the decency to look uncomfortable. Hands in his pockets, he peered down at the floor. “We still need to talk to Sadie,” he offered. “Finalize the report.”

Well, I’m sure you’ll find her in the kitchen.”

It was Sadie, their mother’s housekeeper, who had discovered Flo sprawled at the foot of the stairs. Doped out on clonazepam, Flo had apparently tripped over a loose board at the top of the stairs.

It’s just a formality,” he assured. “It can wait.”

She’d rather believe he was here because he was doing his duty for work, not because of some misplaced sense of obligation to their past. “So you’re working?”

I came to pay my respects, not upset you. Sorry, Caroline.”

At one time, Caroline couldn’t have imagined anyone else she’d rather be comforted by. Now she didn’t even know how to talk to him. “Thanks for coming, Jack.”

He took a step backward. “You’re more like her than you realize,” he said quietly, removing his hands from his pockets. He hesitated, clearly wanting to say more. Instead, he turned and left.

Ignoring the surreptitious glances from their guests, Caroline turned her back on him. Trying hard to be casual, she stabbed a silver spoon into a dish before following Jack out into the hall to watch his retreat.

He edged his way through the crowd, somehow avoiding human contact despite the breadth of his shoulders. He never once looked back. Without a word, he opened the front door, stepped out into the afternoon light and closed it quietly behind him.

Caroline choked on a wave of emotion. “Shit,” she said softly.

Savannah appeared behind her. “That bad?”

Caroline blinked away tears. “He said he was looking for Sadie.”

Savannah lifted a brow. “Well, I doubt that’s why he came by here today.”

The past doesn’t change just because he wants it to!” Caroline said emphatically and Savannah nodded, wisely recognizing the end of her patience on the subject of Jack Shaw.







I chose to share the extended excerpt with you all because I felt that it gave a good segment from the book that would help you determine if you would like to read it. I hope that you do. I would love to know what you thought about the blurb and excerpt so please feel free to leave a comment below. If you have read Ms. Crosby before, please do tell us what you thought. Your feedback is always welcome.

I want to thank Ms. Crosby from spending some time with us again and hope to see her again soon. It is always a pleasure. And thank you to everyone who continues to return and support the blog. I hope that you felt your time spent here was worth it. If you enjoyed what you experienced here today, please consider buying a copy of this book for yourself and supporting this fabulous author! I wish you all a terrific holiday weekend! Please be safe! Until next time ...
HAPPY READING!!!



Click for link to tour schedule

Friday, August 30, 2013

Spotlight with author Jeffe Kennedy

Spotlight with author Jeffe Kennedy




Hello everyone! HUGE apologies for this beyond late post! We are smack dab in the middle of monsoon season and my internet connectivity keeps getting knocked out. ARGH! Makes me so angry that I can't ever seem to get anything uploaded or downloaded until the storm calms. Finally, things are calm … at least for the moment. According to the weather reports, I have at least another week of this maddening aggravation. I try to tell myself to be calm because we really need the water, but it is easier said than done. Anyway, I will quit my rant for now and get back to business. Today I am welcoming back the talented Jeffe Kennedy. I have featured Ms. Kennedy several times on the blog and was thrilled to have a chance to get her back here again. Today is going to give you all a bit of a treat. Ms. Kennedy is sharing THREE books with us and they each have an excerpt! I love excerpts because they allow us a glimpse into the book if only for just a moment. But I oftentimes find that just a snippet can make or break my decision to read a book. I hope that you all enjoy this look in the the Facets of Passion series! Please join me in welcoming back to the blog:



**JEFFE KENNEDY**

**BIO**

Jeffe Kennedy took the crooked road to writing, stopping off at neurobiology, religious studies and environmental consulting before her creative writing began appearing in places like Redbook, Puerto del Sol, Wyoming Wildlife, Under the Sun and Aeon. An erotic novella, Petals and Thorns, came out under her pen name of Jennifer Paris in 2010, heralding yet another branch of her path, into erotica and romantic fantasy fiction. Since then, an erotic short, Feeding the Vampire, and another erotic novella, Sapphire, have hit the shelves. 

Jeffe lives in Santa Fe, with two Maine coon cats, a border collie, plentiful free-range lizards and frequently serves as a guinea pig for an acupuncturist-in-training.

You can find out more about Ms. Kennedy in the following places:





**SAPPHIRE**
**Facets Of Passion, Book 1**
Publisher: Carina Press


**BLURB**
 
A successful executive, M. Taylor Hamilton is on track with her ten-year plan. Too bad her personal life consists of hitting the gym and grocery shopping. Enter the seductive Adam Kirliss. They may have a working relationship, but everything changes at an office party when he handcuffs her to the rail of a yacht. Taylor writes the adventure off as too much champagne, but when Adam challenges her to a date, she agrees to meet up with him. And follow his rules. They share a night of exquisite intimacy, brimming with both pain and pleasure. But afterwards, fearful of losing her heart, Taylor pulls back emotionally. Adam is determined to prove that she longs for the loss of control he can give her – and the passionate release it provides. How can he make her see that he wants her, and not just her body?

Buy Links




**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.
Kirliss captured her other wrist and held them close in front of her, his warm fingers massaging her skin, while he studied her face. The boat surged over a wave, disturbing her balance. Kirliss’s unusual eyes caught the light, boring into her.

This is silly,” she tried.

Do you want me to make you stay?”

What?” Taylor choked. She couldn’t let him treat her this way. “No! You’ll do no such—”
She lost her breath entirely when he pressed up against her. Thinking he was trying to embrace her, she pulled away and found herself backed against the brass railing.

By the time she gathered her flustered thoughts, her wrists were handcuffed to the rail behind her. Mortified, a bit afraid and—worse—suddenly and wildly aroused…





**PLATINUM**
**Facets Of Passion, Book 2**

Publisher: Carina Press


**BLURB**

Althea Grant is doing fine. Sure, her Charleston gallery is suffering from the bad economy, and her artistic aspirations have gone nowhere. But she’s happy enough. When rugged metal sculptor Steel rides up on his motorcycle looking to rent studio space, his infusion of cash is more than welcome. But his art is raw, visceral, sexual—and completely inappropriate for her pastel world of watercolor landscapes.

Steel, fascinated by Althea’s rare albino coloring, sees in her the key to his next piece: a metal satyr that can be used for bondage games. Moving into her gallery basement is the first step; seducing the coolly polite lady into modeling for him is the second.

As Steel peels away her careful manners and tasteful outfits, Althea begins to realize her life isn’t just fine at all—it’s as pale and washed-out as the watercolor paintings she’s failing to sell. Can she transform her life and accept her most secret desires?

Buy Links




**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.
In the morning, Althea dressed carefully in a pretty pale lemon chiffon dress with tiny pearl buttons all down the front. She curled her hair and left it down, thinking it complemented the neckline of the gown better and looked nice with the wide-brimmed matching hat. She looked forward to seeing Brandon for a lovely Sunday outing.
Never mind that she’d spent a nearly feverish night thinking of Steel’s lurid promises. She had no intention of breaking up with Brandon. Steel could hang himself from his own sculpture for all she cared.
She clipped through the gallery as a quick check that all was well, then let herself out through the front and rearmed the alarm. Brandon hadn’t arrived yet, so she busied herself with deadheading the impatiens and lobelia in the window boxes.
Don’t you look a picture.” Steel leaned against the wall nearby, decked out in his motorcycle leathers. He wore mirrored sunglasses, so she couldn’t see his eyes, but his intrusive gaze consumed her nevertheless.
What are you doing out here?”
Taking in the sun, seeing the sights.” He grinned at her. “Gallery’s closed today, I see. Wanna go for a ride on my bike? You’d have to change, though—that skirt would be up over your head in no time. Not that I would mind. In fact the image of you offers some interesting—”
I have a date,” she snapped.
He raised his eyebrows. “Let me guess—Sunday brunch. How…sweet.”
I happen to like brunch.”
And did you like staying home alone on Saturday night?”
I had a long day, working,” she emphasized. “I preferred some time to unwind.”
He chuckled at that. “Princess, I have no doubt that you could use some unwinding, but I could suggest a dozen more interesting ways to do it. For example, we could start with—”
I’m not interested.” She cut him off again and turned back to picking off the dried and wilted blossoms.
You don’t act like a woman who’s not interested.”
I’ve decided to stick with Brandon. I’m declining your…offer. Not that I seriously considered it. At all.”
Brandon?” He drew the name out, baaing on the “a” sound like a sheep.
Oh stop. It’s a perfectly fine name.”
You think so? Brandon? Sounds like a Momma’s boy to me.”
Not every guy has a noun for a name.”
Not unless he’s bold and manly like me.” He winked and she laughed before she caught herself, but with her face still turned down to the window box, he might not have heard. “I notice you never say my name.”
Sure I do. Steel refinery. Stainless steel silverware. Calphalon steel pans. I say it all the time.”
I want to hear you gasping it out while I’m riding you,” he spoke from just behind her, in a quiet, intense voice.
She whirled around and had to take a step back, he was so close. “I don’t want you talking to me that way.”
I think you like it.”
I don’t.” But her voice faltered.
I think Brandon treats you like a lady. I bet, when he bothers to pay attention to you, that he ‘makes love’ to you. All clean and polite-like. Sunday brunch sex. Am I right?”
She focused on the prominent Adam’s apple in his tanned throat. He was all over stubble again. She wondered how the scratchiness would feel.
There’s nothing wrong with love-making.”
No,” he agreed, and he smiled when she glanced up in surprise. “There’s a place for that too. Long afternoons, lace curtains and taking each other in long, luxurious, slow licks of pleasure.” He stroked her cheek. “I can be into that too. But I’m offering something the Brandons of the world won’t. I think there’s a very dirty girl under all that lovely lady exterior. The one who gets juiced just looking at my art. Who wants it hard and hot and maybe just a little rough. Tell me, has any man dared to tie you up with your legs spread wide, so he could have his way with you?”
She gaped at him and he leaned in. Whispered in her ear.
I would. One word from you, princess, and I will.”
Is this your idea of luring me?” She tried to sound indignant, but it came out breathless.
Absolutely.” He flashed her his wicked grin. “And it’s working too.”






**RUBY**
**Facets Of Passion, Book 3**

Publisher Carina Press
ISBN: 978-14268-9548-7
Genre: Romance, Erotic Romance, Contemporary Romance, BDSM
Release date: May 13


**BLURB**

Danielle Sosna has no problem denying herself in order to achieve her goals—after all, that attitude landed her a dream job at Vogue Paris. But in New Orleans for one last assignment before heading overseas, she's faced with the most decadent of temptations. Seductive Cajun chef Bobby Prejean takes Dani's strength of will as a challenge, and offers her a night of wild indulgence—if she will agree to obey his every command…

Dani can't resist Prejean's invitation to join him in a world of carnal desire, complete with fetish costumes and masks. Determined to keep her emotional distance, she gives Prejean everything but her name. A night becomes a week, as she spends Mardi Gras suspended…in the delicious space where pleasure meets pain.

Too late, she realizes the cloak of anonymity has not protected her—and that chasing her dream might come at the expense of her heart.

Buy Links




**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.
She headed toward the B&B, at first hurrying through the rain. As she splashed through the deepening puddles on the uneven sidewalk, her stockings soaked through. In fact, all of her was as wet as if she stood under a shower. Since her pace didn’t matter, she slowed, rain running down her face, sliding over her skin. A pack of squealing tourists hustled by, sharing one plastic rain poncho like a tarp. Prepared locals gave her smug smiles from under the umbrellas they always carried.
She smiled back. The rain might be cool, but the feel of it sliding on her skin brought the world into focus. A small discomfort, like her hunger, to make getting indoors that much more pleasurable.
She passed the Court des Deux Pendus without glancing at it, no matter how much she might want to. Up ahead, a man leaned against a courtyard wall, legs crossed at the ankles, an enormous black umbrella protecting his upper half, while his stylish leather shoes—likely Italian—were irretrievably drenched. Idiot.
You look like a drowned rat, chère.
The familiar voice brought Dani up short before she realized the stranger was speaking to her. Cautiously, she looked over her shoulder to see he’d tipped the umbrella back and was surveying her, an amused twitch behind that neat black beard.
Are you following me?” She poured ice into the question.
Now how could that be when you just came walking by? I should accuse you. Perhaps you’re a stalker.”
Ha!” She barked out the laugh and turned to go, so not in the mood for more shit, all the pleasant sensuality of walking in the rain gone. “I’ll be sure to take a different route in the future.”
Are you hungry?” he called out, lightly, mocking.
Fuck you!” she tossed over her shoulder.
Well, all right,” he said, from close behind her. “Though you’d have to do that my way too. Your place or mine?”
She spun around and nearly slammed into his chest. Backed up a hasty step and snagged her hair on the umbrella.
Goddammit.” She tugged at her wet, snarled curls.
You appear to be trapped.”
Quit harassing me,” she hissed.
In point of fact, you accosted my umbrella. Now, here. Hold this.” He pushed the handle at her and she took it, not looking at him while he used both hands to untangle her hair from the spokes. In her four-inch stilettos, she was nearly the same height, and his breath blew warm against her cheek, the rain drumming around them.
Some temper you have there,” he murmured. “I can’t help but think that if you had something in your belly, you’d be a little sweeter.”
She decided declining to respond to that would be the better part of valor. That had sounded like an invitation. A tempting one.
Nothing to say?” His lips whispered against her cheek.
Let me go.”
You’re free. For now.”
She started to pull back, thrusting the handle at him, but he wrapped his hands over hers.
Let me make it up to you.”
What?” Oh yes. Definitely tempting.
He returned her gaze, steady, calm. His eyes weren’t truly black, but a deep brown, framed by thick lashes any of her models would have killed to come by naturally. The gold hoop glinted in his ear and she was seized by the random desire to take it in her teeth. “I’ll make you something to eat. Something fabulous.”
Absolutely not.”
No?” His gaze fastened on her mouth and the moment felt oddly intimate, with the curtains of rain falling around the umbrella. “Let me feed you.”
I’m not going to a strange man’s place—for any reason.”
Ah.” He nodded. “I am stranger than some, it’s true. I’ll take you somewhere then. Buy you a meal. Maybe a drink. All safe and public.”
You threw me out of your restaurant.”
You deserved it.”
You don’t know what I deserve.”
Oh, but I’d love to find out. You come to my place, you play my way. If you give yourself over to me, I will show you pleasures that will keep you fed for life. A different extreme.”
Something about his tone, the heat from his body, sent arousal rippling through her. An image of the manacles on the courtyard wall slipped through her mind, taunting, compelling.
Are we still talking about food?” She tried to sound flip, but his eyes glinted and somehow she knew he heard the desire in her voice.
When it comes to the sensual delights, it’s all the same. Come with me for now. Let me give you a taste.”
She studied him, definitely tempted. Keeping professional distance was important, so she’d stayed in a different B&B than the rest of her colleagues. But it made for lonely evenings at times. In a week, she’d be in Paris, where she knew no one. Who knew when she’d meet another man this alluring?
What else will you do?” he asked, as if he read her mind. “A rainy night in New Orleans is for sharing good food, a little booze, a lot of nice company.”
I don’t know why I’m agreeing to this.”
White teeth flashed in a smile, outrageously sexy. “Because you can’t resist me, chère.
You wish.”
Yes, I do. Can you walk a bit in those sexy heels?”
What’s a little pain, in the face of what you’re promising?”
Exactly. C’mon, New York.” He tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow. “Let me show you my city.”







So what did you all think? Do you prefer to read serial books when you know you have something more to look forward to? Or would you rather read a stand alone and then move on to another set of characters? And will you be reading this series? Why or why not? Perhaps you have read Ms. Kennedy before. Tell us what you thought about your experience in her world. I always welcome your feedback, so please feel free to leave a comment below.

I want to thank Ms. Kennedy for coming back to spend some time with us today. It was and is always a pleasure. I hope that you all enjoyed getting to know a bit about Ms. Kennedy and her books as much as I did. If you enjoyed what you experienced here today, please consider purchasing a copy of the book(s) for yourself and show your support for this amazing author. I wish everyone a fabulous day – or night as the case may be – and will be seeing you all again very soon! Until next time ...
HAPPY READING!!!




Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Spotlight & GIVEAWAY with author Nikki Lynn Barrett

Spotlight & GIVEAWAY 
with author Nikki Lynn Barrett



Hey all! Welcome back! I have a fun post to share with you all today that includes two book sin a series with excerpts from both. Ms. Barrett is new to me, but she is an Arizona girl, so I have to give her a shout out. Whoot whoot! When I started to create this post, I had several excerpts to choose from. Sometimes I dislike having choices because then I struggle with which to pick to share with you. This situation was no different. I found myself stating to enjoy the characters simply from the excerpts. I don't generally connect that quickly, but I Liked what I experienced from each of those snippets. I hope that you all enjoy getting to know a bit about Ms. Barrett as well as both of the books in her Love And Music In Texas series. And don't forget to enter the giveaway before you hop out today! Please allow me to introduce to the blog:



**NIKKI LYNN BARRETT**


**BIO**

Nikki Lynn Barrett lives in Arizona with her husband and son. She's an avid reader, a dreamer, and loves everything about books. She runs a book blog, an online used bookstore, and writes various genres of romance. Nikki can also be found outside with her camera when a storm is near, snapping photo after photo. Her dreams of becoming a writer started when she was young, when she started writing books in one subject notebooks by the fifth grade. The Secret Santa Wishing Well is her debut book.

You can visit Nikki's site for more information.

She is working on her next book. Nikki would love to hear from readers.

You can find out more about Ms. Barrett in the following places:






**BABY STETSON**
**Love and Music in Texas, Book 1**


Genre: contemporary romance/ suspense elements
ASIN: B00BWIE1GI
Number of pages: 455
Word Count: 103k
Cover Artist: Robert Barrett


**BLURB**
In small Texas towns, strangers come and go...

Left in a Stetson hat, on the steps of the local bed and breakfast, Avery Callimer came into the world on a wing and a prayer. Raised by loving adoptive parents, she’s never lacked for love ... only the knowledge of her past.

By day she works at the inn, but by night ... Avery comes alive as lead singer in a band. Life was good ... stable, until new guests blew into town.

Some strangers come with secrets and lies.

Lucas Bennett is one such stranger. Drifting from one mess to another has left him jaded. Doesn’t matter the dramas are never his doing. Giving it one last shot to make a fresh start lands him Harmony’s Echo, Texas and smack dab in front of the tantalizing Avery.

Despite his best efforts to ignore the burn Avery’s ignited within, he’s intent to keep his distance. Secrets have followed him. Secrets he doesn’t want Avery to know.

Each time they’re near the other, things heat up like a brushfire on a dry Texas prairie.

But maybe, after the dust settles and the smoke clears, love can bloom with a fresh start.


Buy Links







**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.


Wow. This is a nice kitchen,” Lucas said, closing the door behind him.
Avery faced him. “You like to cook?”
Oh yeah. I learned at a young age that I had to take care of myself, so I taught myself to cook. Now it’s something I enjoy.”
“Are you good at it?”
“I’m good at a lot of things, Avery.” Lucas closed the gap between them.
Too close, too close!
She couldn’t back up anymore, though. Behind her was the counter. Her back was already pressed up against it. Lucas looked at her like he wanted to devour her.
“Lucas...”
“I know I need to stay away from you, Avery. All I want is one kiss. I’ve got to taste you. Tell me no, right now, and I’ll back away.”
Lucas pressed his body to hers. He slid his arms around her waist, pulling her to him. His face, only inches from hers, lowered. “Tell me now, Avery. Because if you don’t, I’m going to kiss you.”
Don’t! No! Yes! Do it! No!
She couldn’t get the words out. All she could think about were Lucas’s lips, mere inches from hers, sexy, tempting, inviting. Avery opened her mouth to say something, but no words came out.
“I’m not supposed to be so attracted to you, Avery,” Lucas whispered, then his lips crashed down on hers.
He cupped her face, pulling her into his kiss. She didn’t even have time to decipher what that comment meant. Avery tilted her head upward, responding to his kiss. She wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders as her fingers dug into them. Holy hell, this man could kiss. The deep urgency of his kisses drove her mad.
“Lucas,” she muttered against his lips. His touch was lethal. It wasn’t supposed to feel this good. Or amazing. Or sensational. Avery wasn’t supposed to react to him this way. She didn’t even know this man! Oh, but she knew his gaze, so intent on her, and she was fixated on him.
“Yes, Avery?”
He trailed kisses along her neck now. Desire burned within, igniting quickly. His lips were back on hers now. He darted his tongue out, touching the corners of Avery’s lips, pushing his way in gently. Avery opened for him, needing another taste. Lucas’s erection pressed into her, only making her want him more. She lost all senses, other than to kiss him. Lucas hoisted her up, still pressing her against the counter. Avery squealed and wrapped her legs around him. More fiery kisses came next. His tongue was gentle, daring, inquiring.
“Avery.” He moaned against her lips, nipping lightly. “I want to take you to-”
They broke apart as the sound of loud voices neared. Lucas put her down quickly and backed away from her.





**THE MELODY IN MY HEAD**
**Love and Music in Texas, Book 2**

Genre: contemporary romance/ suspense elements


**BLURB**
Welcome back to Harmony's Echo, Texas.....

Melody Roland is on the run from the one person she trusted completely. One who hid a dark past she could never have imagined. When a pregnant woman on the bus she's fleeing on goes into labor, Melody rushes to her aide. Now she finds herself stranded in a tiny remote town just off the highway, with no way to her original destination.

She's alone, on edge, and unsure who to trust. Her instincts scream to get far away and fast. But how and where?

Jameson Grant struggles through the roughest year of his life. Suffering from the loss of his father, one grief stricken night, he made a mistake. One which cost him the only woman he's ever loved. Each lonely day he's faced with the constant reminders of how quick things can change. Throwing himself into the one thing he has left, his music, helps dull the pain he fights to keep hidden. His last salvation begins to crumble as things spiral out of control and he has no choice but to face the 'music' of his past.

The last thing he needs or wants in his life is a woman with more trouble on her heels than the best of country music lyrics. But Melody sings a sirens call within him that can't be ignored.

Jameson and Melody bond in ways stronger than either could have imagined, but one dangerous person from her past may threaten it all...

If she doesn't flee before he can convince her to stay, and that some love songs last an eternity.





**EXCERPT**
By reading any further you are stating you are at least 18 years of age.
If you are under the age of 18, it is necessary for you to exit this site.

Jameson set the bag on the table and followed the sound. Not only was she playing the guitar, but she
was singing, too. She sat on the stool in the middle of the garage, wearing a white half sleeved shirt that showed
enough skin to drive him crazy. She had her legs crossed and her hands gracefully strummed the strings.
She was beautiful. She seemed at ease, her eyelids half shut as she played her heart out with the song.
Jameson made sure to stay out of sight. She hadn't caught on that he was there yet, and if he made her aware
of his presence, she might stop. He wanted to hear more. Good God, her hands on his guitar. He wanted those
hands back on him.
When she finished playing, Jameson had to catch his breath before popping in, clapping and grinning.
She practically jumped from the stool and put that guitar down quick. “That was beautiful. I didn't realize you
played!”
Oh! Jameson, you startled me. I'm sorry, I had no idea you were home already. I couldn't help but pick
up the guitar. I just, I felt compelled.” She was blabbering and apologizing for nothing. Jameson crossed the
room, closing the distance between them and gathered her in his arms.
Melody, why would you apologize? You keep doing that, and I can't understand why.” Jameson kissed
her forehead, then threaded his fingers through her hair. She looked up at him with wide eyes. “I'm not mad at
you, angel. I loved what you were playing.” He dipped his head and took her lips again, nibbling on the bottom
one. When he pulled away, he smiled. “Not to mention how hot it was to watch your hands move on my guitar. It
made me think of a not to distant morning when your hands were doing something else.”
That got her to laugh as she leaned against him. “You crack me up, you know. Thank you for the
beautiful flowers and the card.”
You're welcome. I just wanted to let you know how much I was thinking about you. I can't stop. You're in
my head. I've got Melody in my head. Hey, that's a good song title. The Melody in my head.” She blushed and
ducked away, but Jameson pulled her closer to him. “I love it when you blush. It's sexy.”
You are determined to get me all flustered, aren't you?” she questioned with a smile.
Jameson shrugged, playing coy. “It's working quite well, I'd say. My master plan to woo and seduce you
is playing out just fine.”
She raised a brow at him. “Oh, is that what it's all about?” Melody extracted herself from his arms and
wagged a finger at him. “I should have known. You want me for my skills. I think I'll be taking them and going
now...” She slowly backed away, watching him with a mischievous grin as her eyes lit up.
Jameson caught her at the door, pinning her to the wall. “You didn't get very far, did you?” He lowered
his head, ready to devour her again. He teased her neck with kisses until she moaned. “Looks like I won this
round.”
You're evil.”
Jameson laughed. “No I'm not. Come on, I have something for you.” He took her hand, leading her out of
the garage. “Have you ever had a moonlit picnic?”
Can't say that I have.”
Well, there's a first time for everything, right? It's a little chilly outside, but if you're up for it, I'm game.”
Jameson pointed to the bag he'd brought. “The roof top, the stars, and this food awaits us.”
Melody nodded. “You make it so easy. You, the stars, and the roof. I don't know how I could say no.”
That's what I was counting on.”
She put a hand on her hip and tried her hardest not to smile. “So you think you know what I'm going to
say now, huh?”
Not always. But see, I've worked my magic before with you and won, so … I had this hope.”
Oh, now it's hope. Before it was counting on. You keep changing your story, Jameson.” She leaned over
and kissed his cheek. Soft laughter escaped her lips.




**GIVEAWAY**
Prize is a $20 Gift Card (Amazon or B&N)



I apologize for the formatting. Every time I tried to change it, it would revert back to the weird way it is currently displaying. I hope that it wasn't too distracting for you. I would love to know what you all thought about the post. Did you like the blurb or excerpts? Are you likely to read this series? Have you read one of these books before? Let me know. I always welcome your feedback so please feel free to leave a comment below.

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