Grappling with Love

 

https://www.amazon.com/Grappling-Love-Kevin-Fildes/dp/B0D36GSLJZ/

Romance shmomance

Simona, an unassuming philosophy professor, somehow manages to juggle her burgeoning career with a rich social life. It's hectic, but she copes with the aid of her favorite hobby: martial arts. Blessed with natural talent and a high sports IQ, Simona is a gifted fighter who intends to showcase her skills in an upcoming amateur tournament despite a bad case of stage fright.

All in all, she's the epitome of the modern woman.

However, her friends don't think she's as happy as she appears. After all, she's never been in love. She's never even had a boyfriend. Simona laughs off any attempt to set her up, scoffing at the notion of romance until an enigmatic new professor, Chet Kingsley, joins her university. Something about him seems familiar, almost magical, but she can't place her finger on it.

Will a romance blossom between the two? Or will powerful rivals, bewildering adventures, and crazed former lovers derail any hope of a relationship? No matter the outcome between her and Chet, Simona will come to learn that it is love for oneself, one another, and life itself, which shines light on the darkness.

A Runaway Affair: An Enemies to Lovers Novel

 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNQGZV5M/

A former Navy SEAL, my widowed brother, battles eviction by a grumpy billionaire landlord due to his noisy kids. As an attorney, I'm fighting to save his beloved home. Unexpectedly, I find myself irresistibly drawn to Ron, the landlord, his striking presence and charisma impossible to resist. We meet up under the pretense of me helping him with a case, which leads to one streamy encounter after another. A casual relationship begins. Now, I'm pregnant, torn between two potential fathers. What's the future hold?

Editorial Review: "Losing My Breath" by J. Rose Black

  

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C8HQCFZB

Editorial Review: "Losing My Breath" by J. Rose Black

In "Losing My Breath," J. Rose Black masterfully intertwines the intense world of a battle-hardened Marine with the enchanting realm of a debutante, creating a sizzling, new-adult romantic comedy that leaves readers breathless. The novel dives into the unexpected love story of Meridian Daly, a sheltered yet spirited debutante, and Callan Brand, a gruff but honorable Marine veteran. Their worlds collide in a setting just a stone's throw from danger, sparking an unconventional romance filled with witty exchanges, undeniable chemistry, and a journey of self-discovery.

Black’s narrative prowess shines in her ability to flesh out complex characters. Meridian and Callan are not mere caricatures of a damsel and her knight; they are multi-dimensional beings, each grappling with their own vulnerabilities and strengths. The character development is commendable, with Meridian's tenacity and Callan's introspective struggles adding depth to their romantic escapade.

The novel’s plot is a rollercoaster of emotions, expertly balancing steamy romantic scenes with moments of heartfelt sincerity. The dynamics between the main characters evolve organically, moving from casual encounters to profound connections. The story's climax delves into the unveiling of Callan's guarded secrets, challenging the couple's bond and their individual notions of pride and vulnerability.

J. Rose Black’s background in crafting fanfiction resonates in her compelling storytelling and engaging character arcs. Her real-life experience and her personal endeavors — battling post-pregnancy challenges and embracing her passions — lend an authentic touch to her narrative voice, making the characters and their struggles relatable.

"Losing My Breath" is more than a romcom; it’s a poignant exploration of love's power to heal and transform. It's a testament to Black’s skill in weaving a narrative that captures the essence of romance while addressing deeper themes of honor, resilience, and the courage to face one's demons. The novel is a must-read for fans of new-adult romance, offering a perfect blend of humor, heat, and heart.

Editorial Review: "Stoned Garden" by Belle Butter

   

https://a.co/d/b5z15tW

Editorial Review: "Stoned Garden" by Belle Butter

In "Stoned Garden," debut author Belle Butter embarks on a bold journey, weaving a tale that skillfully blends the thrill of romance with the edginess of erotic adventure. The novel introduces readers to Zoey, a divorced mom whose reentry into the dating world takes a series of unexpected and exhilarating turns.

Butter's protagonist, Zoey, is relatable yet unpredictable. As she navigates the complexities of newfound relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Luke, readers are plunged into a whirlwind of emotions and experiences. The author's deft storytelling ensures that Zoey's internal turmoil and her persistent thoughts about Luke are as tangible to the reader as they are to her.

The setting of the story plays a crucial role in amplifying its themes. Butter's vivid descriptions of a luxury Las Vegas resort set the stage for a narrative that is as much about self-discovery as it is about romance and adventure. The backdrop of the city's vibrant energy and the allure of the craps table add layers to the narrative, making the setting a character in its own right.

"Stoned Garden" is not just a story about a woman's romantic escapades; it is a deeper exploration of personal growth and the quest for fulfillment. Butter's writing is laced with a passion for adventure and an appreciation for the complexities of human relationships. The novel's blend of edibles and erotica is both daring and imaginative, offering readers an escapade that is as unconventional as it is captivating.

Belle Butter, hailing from the Northeast United States, brings her love for murder mysteries, Christmas, and Las Vegas into her writing, creating a unique blend that resonates throughout the pages. As the first book in the Stoned Garden universe, this novel promises a series that will continually challenge and excite its readers.

In summary, "Stoned Garden" is a refreshing and bold entry into the world of contemporary romance and adventure fiction. Belle Butter's debut is a testament to her creative prowess and sets a high bar for future works in the Stoned Garden series. The book is a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of romance, self-discovery, and a touch of the unconventional.

Healing Hearts: An Office Romance

  

https://a.co/d/84uF2LT

Embark on a captivating journey inside the halls of a counseling center, where professional dedication meets the complexities of the human heart. This narrative introduces Mia, a dedicated therapist, who prides herself on maintaining a clear boundary between her personal and professional life. Her resolve is tested when Daniel, her respected mentor and the head of the center, invites her to a charity ball, setting in motion a series of events that challenge both their professional ethics and emotional fortitude.

This novel intricately weaves a story of profound emotional connections, exploring the delicate balance between personal feelings and professional responsibilities. As Mia and Daniel navigate their increasingly complex relationship, they confront the ethical dilemmas that arise from their growing closeness. Each encounter, laden with unspoken understanding and mutual respect, gradually reveals the depth of their connection, forcing them to examine the true meaning of integrity and commitment in their professional lives.

Set against the backdrop of their demanding careers, this tale delves into the heart of what it means to be a caregiver and the human tendency to seek connection, even in the most unexpected places. It's a study in the strength of character, the resilience of the human spirit, and the courage it takes to confront one's true feelings in a world where rules and hearts often collide.

This book is a nuanced exploration for readers who appreciate stories about personal growth, ethical dilemmas, and the intricate dance between love and duty. It is a testament to the power of human connection, reminding us that sometimes the hardest choices lead to the most fulfilling paths.

Discover a narrative that celebrates the journey of self-discovery and the bravery required to follow one's heart against all odds.
Click on “Buy Now” to begin this enthralling journey.

Seeking

  

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKVGR8Z5

Maizy and Brent are a loving college couple who against all odds found each other early in life. Both have survived unthinkable tragedies only to become stronger and more determined with a passion that reaches levels of heat most can only dream of.

Each holds a secret that shouldn't affect the other but when they find out their worlds were intertwined long before they knew it, will their relationship survive?

This book as do all of my books, is filled with drama, suspense, and sexy banter, but always an HEA!

Finding Lorena: A Time Travel Romance

  

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RY8QJ51

Imagine being able to jump back in time and do it all over again.

Going back to live with everything you've learned, and knowing everything that's happened in the world during your lifetime. That's exactly what happens to Connor Grace, a middle-aged divorced school teacher, who is hit by a car in downtown Charleston and wakes up as a teenager again in the late 1980's.

Young again, he seeks the woman who he knows will eventually become his true love, and sets out to right the wrongs of the past.

As he tries to make sense of the tumultuous times he had already lived through once before, he discovers that he isn't the only one who has come back.

In Finding Lorena, organized crime, southern charm, Israeli martial arts, time travel, and self-discovery coalesce in an action-adventure love story for the ages...well, maybe a few different ages.

Tickets For 2 (Author Interview)

 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BMGXGB89

Tickets for 2 looks like an exciting story.  Can you tell us a little about it?

Tickets for 2 is an inspiring and heart-warming book about a lovely over-worked young adult named Sera whom gets betrayed in the worst possible way right before Christmas. She must decide to let love in again or stay miserably sad after her bad-boy boyfriend betrays her. Her beauty and self-worth are challenged and she must overcome this to move on and to be open to new experiences.

Any plans to turn it into a series? 

Tickets for 2 is one of three books in the series.  Hooves and Heartbeats is the 2^nd book.  While all books are stand alones, they all share a trip for two.  The grand finale Book 3 will come out next holiday season and will be a juicy read worth waiting for and will incorporate all characters in the most unusual manner.

When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?

I’ve always been a strong writer, mastering my advanced business reports while seeking my BA in business and even started writing a visitor’s guide when I was stationed in Okinawa and wrote many articles for the local military paper as well for fun.  Many years before this, I work on the editor team for the school newspaper and yearbook.  So here I am all grown up and finally have published two beautiful Christmas stories this month. 

I can’t say in the big picture book I ever envisioned I would start a writing career; however, it just made sense one day after my oldest son married and the younger son moved out and got his own apartment! With the support of my boys, I packed up all my belongings and drove across country to a much warmer climate and started my author business. Ever since July 2022, I eat, drink, and breathe all different aspects of this business.

How did you come up with the title to your book?

All three books are tied together when one of main characters in each book wins an all-inclusive trip paid for 2.

Can you tell us a little about Sera?

Sera is a sweet, determined, easy going, fun, over worked, young professional whom also has the task of helping take care of her mother whom has a rare medical condition.  Her boyfriend whom she thought loved her and was helping her with hospital visits betrays her in the worst possible way and she must find the strength inside to continue.

How did you come up with the story and ideas in Tickets for 2?

Haha.  I believe many people want to run away from Christmas but not so many will admit it.  However, if you could take an all-inclusive trip to somewhere fun and exciting without negatively impacting your family or close circle, why not?   

In this case, a well-deserved Sera has an opportunity to clear her head taking a fabulous all-expense paid trip for two and experience Christmas on an exotic island with a former colleague where there was always a spark between them.

Why not get tickets for 2 and see what happens?

 What do you like to do when not writing?

I luv trendy, unique restaurants, a great glass of cabernet wine, massages, walking on the beach, my elliptical, and VERY SOON, I will be learning to sail.

 Where can readers find out more about your work?

JMGRANTbooks.com

 

A Warm Rainy Day in Tokyo (Author Interview)

 

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TRWQL7F

https://www.kanawuauthor.com/awarmrainydayintokyo

A Warm Rainy Day in Tokyo looks like an exciting romance story. Can you tell us a little about it?

This light-hearted and sweet romance story is about Bella Bell and Ryo Yamada, who cross their paths by unexpected circumstances, and the last thing they wish to happen is to fall in love.

 

Because the story is set in Tokyo, readers will also have a chance to experience a glimpse of Japanese culture and food. 

 

Any plans to turn it into a series?

Yes, the story is still set in summer, but with different protagonists and locations.

 

What can you tell us about Bella Bell?

Bella Bell is a cheerful young woman in her early twenties. She grew up in a happy family. Her mom constantly compares her to her older sister, Adele. Bella is hard-working and began her career in Little Bear Café right after she finished high school. For her mom's sake, she had an AA degree that she earned in such a short time.

Bella can be childish but a likable person. Her bosses like her attitude and always give her an opportunity for improvement.

 

What inspired you when writing A Warm Rainy Day in Tokyo?    

I fell in love with Japanese culture the first time I came to Japan. Also fell in love with Tokyo because it's clean, organized, and safe. The city is also unique because modern and ancient live here in harmony. You can see rising skyscrapers and flashing billboards on one side and shrines and temples on the other. Even near the parliament buildings and the prime minister's office, there are a few shrines where many people come to pray before going to work. I love to see them and want to share my fondness for the city through my story.

 

What motivated you to become a writer?

There are thousands of beautiful stories written by outstanding authors worldwide, and I want to contribute my stories.  

 

How did you come up with the story and ideas in A Warm Rainy Day in Tokyo?

I had the idea when I was stranded in a Japanese cafe in Tokyo because of the rain. 

 

Did anything stick out as particularly challenging when writing A Warm Rainy Day in Tokyo?

The taboos and daily etiquettes. For example, wearing your shoes inside the house is okay for most people, but it's a big no-no for the Japanese. You can wear indoor slippers or barefoot but absolutely no outdoor shoes or sandals. 

 

It took me so long to do the research, and then once the story was done, I had to confirm all the daily etiquettes with my Japanese friends to ensure I represented the correct information.

 

What do you like to do when not writing?

I read books, create digital content, and spend time with my family and friends.

 

Where can readers find out more about your work?

https://www.kanawuauthor.com/collections also I love to connect with readers on my Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. 

 

Ecstasy Of the Heart (Author Interview)

  

https://www.libri7.com/read/19570/Ecstasy-Of-the-Heart?chapter

Ecstasy Of the Heart looks like an exciting story. Can you tell us a little about Lillie Damon?

Lillie is a witch that uses witchcraft. She is in love with Paul and loved him since high school.

Any plans to turn it into a series?

I am currently adding to the story.

How long did it take you to write Ecstasy Of the Heart?

One year

What inspired you when writing Ecstasy Of the Heart?

I wanted to write a paranormal love story.

How did you come up with the story in Ecstasy Of the Heart?

The relationship between two people often faces challenges. I thought the use of a voodoo doctor and a witch could provide greater conflict to the story. I add the minister to show that God will always overcome evil. The conflict is between good and evil.

Did anything stick out as particularly challenging when writing Ecstasy Of the Heart?

Writing the spells that were cast.


What do you like to do when not writing?

Read


Where can readers find out more about your work?

My book is on Libri, Fizzo, Novel Cat, Sofanovel, and Ireader.

Tales From the Bookcase: Constance (Author Interview)

  

www.bronnfrancis.com

Constance looks like an exciting romance story.  Can you tell us a little about Connie Dalton?

Connie comes from a family where her father was an abuser. When she turned 18, she left home and joined the Australian Arny where she rose to the rank of Warrant Officer. She was in the Middle East as part of an Australian Peace-keeping Force during what became known as the Reprisals. A global holocaust. Country against country. Family against family.

When the Reprisals finally ended in 2036, and Connie had  completed 20 years service all she wanted to do was read books about women like herself. BBW. When she couldn't find any she followed her Army training. If you can't find what you want, build it yourself. And so her bookstore, The Bookcase came into being.

How long did it take you to write Constance?

It's only a fairly short story. It only took about a week to actually write the story. But the planning and creation or visualisation of the Reprisals and what caused them plus doing the same for the concept of (land) Resumes by the Government and Wannon Rise Resune by a friend and fellow writer took months.

I will be ever grateful that my friend allowed me to base my stories in his creation.  It took me quite a while to get my head around what my friend had visualised then plan my own stories to fit into that fictional landscape.

 

What inspired you when writing Constance?   

It was my writer friend's creation actually. He started creating the fictional world almost a year before most of Australia was locked down when Covid arrived in early 2020.

There was a lot of global unrest beginning at the same time. So for my friend it was an association of ideas. The recent events in Afghanistan has made the concept of the Reprisals more real, I think.

 

You have an expansive collection of books.  When did you decide to become a writer?

I started reading when I was a young girl. My father was an Engineer who worked on the Australian Snowy Mountains Hydro Electricity Scheme. Radio reception at that time was patchy where I lived and it was years before TV came to Australia.

When Covid came in 2020,  going to work was impossible so I retired. Because I was an avid reader I joined a small online group to talk about books over virtual coffees. Out of those chats one of us suggested we try writing our own stories. Some us did.

 

What motivated you to become a writer?

I love to read. Romances mostly. But anything really. Being locked down due to Covid was hard. I looked for something to keep my mind active. I'm not young.  Playing active competitive sport was out of the question. We were only allowed out for an hour a day for exercise so running marathons wasn't an option either. Ha! Me running marathons? Don't make me laugh.

When our online virtual coffee book discussions brought up writing my own stories, I thought why not?

 

Did anything stick out as particularly challenging when writing Constance?

Yes. The length of the books. And writing books in series. Writing my own books started out as a bit of a giggle. Something to do. While I enjoy reading novels, I didn't want to write long books.

When my friend said that I could use his fictional world he told me he was going to stick to writing shorter stories. Novellas probably. He wanted to write lots of books and leave them behind as his legacy.

I liked his idea. So I decided to write shorter stories myself.

As for series, what better place to start than using a bookstore as it's focus.

 

What do you like to do when not writing?

I like to dabble as a painter. Before Covid I went to art classes. That ended with Covid, but when I can and want to switch off from the world, I do some work on my latest project. Usually landscapes. I did try painting portraits but I need my painting tutor looking over my shoulder for that.

Where can readers find out more about your work?

My books are available on Amazon Kindle and through Draft2Digital to booksellers like Kobo and Barnes & Noble among many. There are even a few libraries that have them.

I do offer a free copy of my first book in my Tales From the Bookcase series on my website:

www.bronnfrancis.com

I also send out short emails telling my subscribers about my books and what I'm thinking of writing next.

 

 

 

Ensueno (Author Interview)

www.amazon.com/dp/B08929ZD86/

Ensueno looks like an exciting story.  What can you tell us about it?

It’s erotica written just for women.  It’s more than the usual romance story you find ordinarily in female literature.  It’s a lot more racy and erotic, written in a manner that women like.  But there is romance too!

The story Ensueno is based on an upscale Women’s resort in Mexico for highly affluent women.  In this resort, they get anything and everything they desire.  That includes the décor in the room, to the food they eat to the men they devour.  They can act out anything they dream of in a safe, secure and private, and privileged environment.  

What kind of woman is Vanessa?

Vanessa is a brilliant businesswoman who wants more from life.  She is approaching 50, very rich, owns a large legal firm, created Ensueno from the ground up and is accustomed to getting her way.  She can have anything in the world that she desires however, it seems love has escaped her in this lifetime…until Frank comes along.

Any plans to turn the book into a series?

Yes, Vanessa’s life is an adventure, and my readers get to go along with her and live out their fantasies!  They are already asking for the second novel.

Before We Ever Spoke (Author Interview)

www.amazon.com/dp/B07DPWW3S9/

Before We Ever Spoke looks like a great sports romance novel.  What can you tell us about it?

I think that the best compliment I’ve been given about the book is that it truly has something for everyone. Yes, it’s a sports romance, but it also has a crime/suspense subplot that enters about halfway through the book. I really wanted to write a book that was multi-genre and would appeal to a wide audience. 

How did you come up with the story in Before We Ever Spoke

           

When I first started writing the book, it was a very different story, but then I saw firsthand the devastation that Hurricane Katrina caused on the Gulf Coast and knew that I wanted to shift gears. While the book takes place mostly in Cleveland, where I am from, a big part of the story takes place in Pass Christian, Mississippi, where Cooper Madison was born.

Can you tell us a little about Cooper Madison?

Cooper Madison is the best pitcher in baseball in 2006, when the story takes place, but he walks away from the game after a tragedy. While ‘Coop’ is who I think a lot of men would love to be like, he’s also vulnerable and relatable to those of us mere mortals. He’s a guy who seemingly has everything, yet he finds himself alone and empty inside. That is, until he meets Cara.

What inspired you when writing Before We Ever Spoke

I had always wanted to write a book. I decided that as I approached the age of 40 that I would finally make it happen. I wanted to show my three children that it is never too late to follow your dreams.

When writing Before We Ever Spoke did anything stand out as particularly challenging?  

My biggest fear was that it would be predictable and cliche, so I really tried to create a story that was anything but those things. According to all of the book clubs and groups that I have spoken with, it seems that I accomplished that goal.

What do you like to do when not writing?

I’m a 7th grade teacher and I used to coach high school baseball and football. Nowadays, I really enjoy spending as much time as possible with my family.

Where can readers find out more about your work?

They can go to my website www.danlargent.com and also follow me on Twitter @ofbaseball - all of my television and radio interviews are on my website, as well as links to purchase my books, including my follow-up After Edgewater.