The White Wolf’s Wrath (Dragon Fire and Druids, #1)

The White Wolf’s Wrath (Dragon Fire and Druids, #1) By Shea Hulse
Published by: Hot Tree Publishing
Publication date: September 26, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Summary:

Step into a world where betrayal cuts deeper than a knife, and vengeance burns hotter than wildfire.

My life took a sharp turn when the White Wolf unleashed his fury upon my family’s once-glorious estate, shattering everything I held dear.

But from the rubble, I emerged with a fierce determination. Disguised as a humble servant in the Wolf’s inner circle, I tread carefully, balancing on the edge of survival and discovery.

In my quest for payback, I unearth truths that rock my world. The man I swore to hate reveals surprising depths, stirring emotions I never thought possible. Caught between seeking revenge and a budding attraction, I’m trapped in a whirlwind of conflicting feelings.

With the help of the mysterious Amergin, I navigate the dangerous territory of enemies and secrets. War looms on the horizon, and betrayal lurks in every shadow. I must summon all my courage to follow my heart’s uncertain path in this turbulent journey of love and revenge.

The White Wolf’s Wrath is the first book in the intense Dragon Fire and Druids romantasy series.

—

VThe Kingdom of Shadows and Wolves (Stardust & Shadows, #1)

The Kingdom of Shadows and Wolves (Stardust & Shadows, #1) By Martha Sweeney
Publication date: August 27, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, RomanceSummary:

Being raised by the viper who slaughtered my family, along with being beaten and berated by him for merely existing, takes a toll on my heart and soul. Uncle bears the crown, has changed the name of our kingdom Soare to Krigare, and desires more destruction throughout the Fae lands. 

While plotting his quest to rule all, I’m bartered to forge a union with Cysgod, a formidable ally and one who could ensure Uncle’s victory. 

King Caelum of Cysgod has a reputation that precedes him, defining him as a tyrant as well. He killed his father for the crown and is known to be just a ruthless and bloodthirsty as Uncle.

Just when I thought the Gods had forsaken me, as they did the Enkeli and Conroicht, my life turns upside down. While I fear my new king, he and his people see me as their queen. Though he does not punish me, I expect it nonetheless and flinch at his touch.

I may be rid of Uncle, but I doubt his hold on me is truly released. Does he plan to capture Cysgod from the inside, using me as his weapon, giving him the army he needs to take and conquer any kingdom? Is there a way to stop Uncle and seek revenge for the death of my kin?

—

EXCERPT:

Your name does not fit you, my soon-to-be King,” I state. “Your father surely didn’t expect his son who is named of the heavens, where our beloved Gods reside, to take his crown by force. Did you go rabid like the Conroicht? Perhaps he should have named you—”

His grip tightens around my fingers and I’m forced to stop speaking and walking when he does. I dare not look at him, knowing I have spoken out of turn.

There isn’t a sound other than his controlled breath in and out of his nostrils.

Black Love Matters: Real Talk on Romance, Being Seen, and Happily Ever Afters

Black Love Matters: Real Talk on Romance, Being Seen, and Happily Ever Afters BY Jessica P. Pryde
Publication date: Feburary 1, 2022
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Literary Fiction, Romance
Summary:

An incisive, intersectional essay anthology that celebrates and examines romance and romantic media through the lens of Black readers, writers, and cultural commentators, edited by Book Riot columnist and librarian Jessica Pryde.

Romantic love has been one of the most essential elements of storytelling for centuries. But for Black people in the United States and across the diaspora, it hasn’t often been easy to find Black romance joyfully showcased in entertainment media. 

In this collection, revered authors and sparkling newcomers, librarians and academicians, and avid readers and reviewers consider the mirrors and windows into Black love as it is depicted in the novels, television shows, and films that have shaped their own stories. 

Whether personal reflection or cultural commentary, these essays delve into Black love now and in the past, including topics from the history of Black romance to social justice and the Black community to the meaning of desire and desirability.

Exploring the multifaceted ways love is seen—and the ways it isn’t—this diverse array of Black voices collectively shines a light on the power of crafting happy endings for Black lovers.

Jessica Pryde is joined by Carole V. Bell, Sarah Hannah Gomez, Jasmine Guillory, Da’Shaun Harrison, Margo Hendricks, Adriana Herrera, Piper Huguley, Kosoko Jackson, Nicole M. Jackson, Beverly Jenkins, Christina C. Jones, Julie Moody-Freeman, and Allie Parker in this collection.

—

EXCERPT:

A Short History of African American Romance

Beverly Jenkins

Slave narratives were the first instrument used by African Americans to tell their own stories, so, in order to examine the history of African American romance, we must begin there. One of the earliest narratives my research turned up was one by Briton Hammon, published in 1760. It’s memorable for the title’s content and its length:

Elements & the Fae (The Elemental, #2)

Elements & the Fae (The Elemental, #2) By Jillian Beane
Publication date: August 12 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance

Summary:

Dirrin is gone, but who took his books? And why?

Cleaning up after the last battle and establishing the newly formed Council of Erist is hard enough, but when Dirrin’s books turn up missing and a chunk of obsidian with a strangely familiar magical signature is found, how will Suleima and her friends figure this out?

When new information about Suleima’s past comes to light, how will her dynamic with her found family change?

Rejoin Suleima and her friends as they face a new threat and discover that Dirrin may have only been the beginning.

—

EXCERPT:

“What is the matter?” he asked.

“There’s so much here, but nothing I am looking for!”

“Let’s take a break. Go for a walk, clear your head. We can talk about what you’ve read or talk about nothing. You decide.”

She nodded and rose from her chair, heading for the door. Suleima didn’t venture far, content to sit on the porch, looking out into the woods beyond her house. Gage sat next to her, their legs touching, his arm behind her, sitting silently. After yawning, she laid her head on his shoulder. He tilted his head down to touch hers and held her hand.

Love On Thin Ice

Breaking the Ice By Whitney Dineen

What do an entitled billionaire and small-town ice-skating coach have in common?

Ellie
My life is not turning out like I thought it would.

My mom’s arthritis has gotten so bad that I had to move in with her. I’m making ends meet by giving ice skating lessons at the arena in Maple Falls. I’d be in serious trouble had the Harts not given me that job.

Which makes it impossible to say no when they ask me to let Troy’s obnoxious billionaire brother stay in the cabin on my mom’s property during the charity hockey event they’re running.

Zach
First the tabloids call me out for being a cheapskate and then Yolanda Simms takes to national television to tell everyone what a vicious heartbreaker I am?

Yeah, my life has been better.

My brother thinks I can fix my bad press by coming to Maple Falls and donating big to his new charity endeavor. Too bad he didn’t mention the woman who owns the cottage I’ll be staying at hates me with a passion.

He also didn’t mention she’s everything I’ve ever looked for in a woman…

The Rebound Play By Kate O’Keeffe

If you get a second chance at love with your hockey star ex, should you take it?

Keira
What do you do when your NHL superstar ex skates back into your small town? Drop to the ground and hide behind the bleachers, praying he doesn’t see you. That was the plan, anyway. But Lady Luck must be having an off day because Dan spots me, my hood over my eyes, pretending I’m not there.

Mature? No.

Necessary? Absolutely.

Humiliation washes over me, and the wall around my heart stands firm. Dan might be back, but I can’t afford to let him in again. Not after the heartbreak of losing him once before.

When he offers to coach my nephew, I reluctantly agree. Every smile he flashes at me, every kind word, threatens to crack my resolve. But I can’t go through that again. I have to protect my heart.

Dan
I want Keira back. End of story.

The Friend Face Off By Grace Worthington

Getting involved with your brother’s best friend is risky enough. But when he’s a hockey player? It’s a whole new level of bad idea.

Emmy
As a ravenous reader, I’ve got a secret: I’m obsessed with hockey romances.
But let me tell you, real life hockey players are nothing like my book boyfriends.

So I threw down the gauntlet on BookTok. I challenged any single guy out there to prove me wrong. Can a real hockey player be as romantic as the ones in my favorite stories?

Enter Dawson Hayes, a goalie with a point to prove and my brother’s best friend. He’s confident he can win me over and take me on the most romantic date of my life.

But there’s a catch: for me to accept, I have to pretend that he’s my fake boyfriend. Now everyone in my small town thinks that Dawson and I are having a fall fling. Even if it’s a fling that can’t last.

Worst of all, I’m starting to believe this fling is real. I’m falling for my brother’s best friend.

Dawson
The first time I met Emmy, her brother warned me to stay away. As hockey teammates, that made her totally off-limits.

But now I’m back in Emmy’s small town to play in a charity hockey match, and I can’t resist her dating challenge: to find out if any man can be more romantic than the book boyfriends she adores.

Emmy and I are both fiercely competitive, and I’m determined to win her over.

When the moment of truth comes, the chemistry between us turns into something neither of us expected: a romantic face-off between friends who are insanely attracted to each other.
Now, I’m out to prove to her that you should never judge a book by its cover—or a hockey player when it comes to love.

The Friend Face Off is a brother’s best friend, closed door hockey romcom with fake dating, friends to lovers and You’ve Got Mail vibes.

Love in Overtime
Melissa Baldwin

Playing hockey in Maple Falls was meant to be just a charity gig, but then my new publicist showed up, melting the ice—and my heart.

Cooper
I never anticipated being roped into a charity hockey game during the off-season. But here I am, heading to Maple Falls, all because my publicist decided to retire. Change was inevitable, but I didn’t foresee it coming so soon.
Getting assigned a new publicist, Blair Radcliffe, didn’t sit well with me at first. However, there’s something about her – a fierce determination that’s both intriguing and challenging. I wonder if she’s ready for the whirlwind that is Cooper Montgomery. One thing’s certain– I can’t afford to fall for my publicist.

Blair
I still can’t believe I landed my dream job. The excitement is overwhelming, and I’m determined to carve out my path in the industry. But there’s one obstacle standing in my way– Cooper Montgomery, the seemingly uncooperative hockey star. Nevertheless, I’m ready to tackle the challenge head-on, and perhaps some time away in a quiet town like Maple Falls will work wonders.

What I didn’t anticipate was developing a crush on my own client. It’s the ultimate taboo in my profession, a mistake that could jeopardize everything I’ve worked for. I’m at a loss on how to navigate this newfound attraction, especially when it appears that Cooper might feel the same way. I’m not sure what to do next.

The Parent Playbook
Elsie Woods

I don’t know when dad jokes and mismatched socks became my type, but that hockey dude skated into my life like a runaway puck… and I think I like it.

Angel
I know I should be thankful that my charity was selected by the Ice Breakers hockey team. It’ll make a huge difference in children’s lives all over the state.

There’s only one problem:

I hate hockey dudes.

I have to remind myself of that fact when Scotty MacFarland with his groan-worthy dad jokes slips into my life like he’s always been there.

No matter how hard I push back on that perfectly formed chest, Scotty remains strong, giving me the space I need. I’m beginning to think I don’t want to have so much space anymore.

But by the time I figure that out, it just might be too late.

Scotty
The only thing I love more than hockey is my daughter.

It was a no-brainer for me to give up the ice when I became a single dad, and I didn’t look back. But when the call came to coach the Ice Breakers, the opportunity was too good to pass up, and I thought my girl would thrive with a fresh start in Maple Falls.

Turns out, the leaves weren’t the only thing falling in Maple Falls.

Angel Davis swooped into my life and pieces I didn’t know were missing started to fall into place. A devoted single mom, director of a children’s charity, and all-around spark of sassiness, she and I find an easy rhythm, despite her throwing a boot at my face.

But Lily comes first. And if I have to leave behind a future with Angel before it’s started in order to do what’s right, I will.

Though it seems fate has other ideas.

Love at First Skate
Ellie Hall

They say love is messy. Turns out friendship is too, especially when you’re stranded in a cabin with your best friend and hearts are on thin ice.

Teddy

I’ve heard that men and women can’t be friends without it becoming something more. Harlow and I put that theory in the penalty box, thank you very much.

She laughs at my jokes, secretly admires my hockey butt, trusts me with her biggest fear (it’s safe with me). In turn, she knows everything about me. Well, almost.

There’s been a recent development. I’m gone for her. Down bad. Solid Crush. She lives rent free in my mind. I’ve caught feelings. This wouldn’t be a problem except, you know, the whole it shattering our friendship thing.

Harlow

You know those days you want to erase? It went like this: my boyfriend broke up with me (it was overdue), and then I broke up with my job while at a work conference (it was mind-numbing).

In an ironic twist, I won the raffle for a romantic getaway trip for two. Who else to bring other than my best friend who’ll gladly commiserate with me? He has a hockey event nearby, so it works out perfectly.

Until we’re stranded in the cozy cabin together. There’s a blaze of attraction. A friendship-changing kiss.

What now? Do we hit the reset button? Salvage what we had? Pretend it never happened? These are things I’d talk to my bestie about, but I can’t because I’m head over heels for him.

Penalties and Proposals
Anne Kemp

It only takes one bad apple to ruin the bunch. When life hands me reformed hockey star Noah Beaumont, AGAIN, am I supposed to make cider or is there a sweeter surprise in store?

Willa
I never wanted to see Noah Beaumont again. EVER. When I kicked him off my set after he showed up intoxicated, his PR team tried to blacklist me. I made it over that hurdle, made a name for myself, and I’m heading to Maple Falls to cover a charity ice hockey team that’s making headlines…only to find out I have to work with HIM.

But this Noah seems different. He’s reformed and seems to be determined to show me he’s changed. Can I trust him, or will he be the same disaster I remember?

Noah
I’ve spent years trying to make amends for my past mistakes, questioning if I still belong in the world of hockey or if it’s time to step back, be ‘normal’. But seeing Willa again brings everything into sharp focus. She’s the woman who’s haunted my thoughts since the day I met her.

Now, she’s here in Maple Falls, and I’m determined to prove I’m not the same man she remembers. I want her to see the real me, the man I’ve worked so hard to become. Can I convince her to give me a second chance?

—

—

Illusion of Stars

Illusion of Stars By Sarah Marie Page
Publication date: July 16, 2024
Buy Link: Pre-Order
Genres: Fantasy, New Adult, Romance
Summary:

She’s stealing more than secrets.

As the royal physician of a tiny, windswept island, Isabel spends her days trying to keep the queen from dying and the mad king from streaking naked down the halls. But when her best friend is found murdered on the beaches, her world is ripped apart. Desperate for answers, she discovers a stash of letters that reveal a terrifying truth: the neighboring kingdom of Volgaard possesses a kingdom-shattering weapon and is poised to conquer everything in its path.

Seeking vengeance, Isabel infiltrates the enemy. Her mission? Woo Erik Lothgarson, the general’s steamy, illusion-magic wielding son, and steal the dangerous weapon. She can bring Volgaard to its knees—if she isn’t caught.

But as Isabel dances along the knife edge of deception, the lines between truth and fiction blur, and she must wrestle her quest for vengeance against her undeniable attraction to the enemy.

Author Bio:

I'm Sarah, an award-winning author who writes fluffy fantasy. I live in Phoenix, Arizona with my equally fluffy cat (starting to see a pattern here?) And fine, I have a husband too.

He's not fluffy.

My debut novel, ILLUSION OF STARS, comes out July 2024. I'm currently working on the (untitled) ILLUSION OF STARS sequel and SERPENT GREEN, VENOM BLUE. I also have a witchy manuscript that lives in a trunk under the bed.

We don't talk about that.

My work has been featured in Y Magazine, The Advocate, The Crow’s Quill, and Hippocampus Magazine (among others) and I've been a guest on a ton of podcasts like The Outspoken Artist, Bookish Flights, Books are Magical and the Author's Alcove.

If I got some pity laughs out of you, I suggest signing up for my newsletter where I will make you pity laugh some more.

I'm also a frequent flier on Instagram, so if you still can't get enough of me, you can also follow me there.

Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Instagram

—

Chosen by the Fae King (Brides of Falcondale, #1)

Chosen by the Fae King (Brides of Falcondale, #1)null By C.A. Worley
Publication date: May 28, 2024
Buy Link: AmazonAmazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Summary:

In the fae Kingdom of Falcondale, Prince Nox ascends the throne under the ominous cloud of his father’s assassination. Beneath the veiled guise of enacting the bride trials, Nox, a brooding and often callous male, hopes to find much more than just a wife.

In an attempt to save her closest friend from the treacherous trials, Aeryn volunteers to take her place, hoping to save her friend from the clutches of the coldhearted king. Her impulsive act backfires and both females are thrown into the contest for the king’s hand.

Aeryn bucks against the archaic tradition—only to end up awakening an irresistible attraction between her untamed spirit and Nox’s enigmatic allure. As the boundaries of deception and desire are blurred, the pair must navigate the dangers together or fall prey to sinister forces that threaten not only their lives, but control of the kingdom.

While this story is not dark romance, it does contain elements of violence and mature situations some may find uncomfortable. Recommended for readers 18+.

—

EXCERPT:

“I have nothing else to offer,” I told him.

“That’s not true. In fact, I know what I want and only you have it.”

Nox shifted closer, his arm behind me now. Not touching, but close.

My Enemy’s Boyfriend (The Seven, #2)

My Enemy’s Boyfriend (The Seven, #2) By Linda Kage
Publication date: May 23, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance
Summary:

CAN YOU TELL IF YOU’RE BEING POSSESSED BY A GHOST?

It was no mystery why I hated Genesis Gusano. She liked to take other people’s things. The bitch stole a pair of my cutest shoes along with my favorite necklace and a school paper I’d written, which had nearly gotten me expelled from Haverick University entirely. 

But the last straw came when she dared to take the one thing I’d been pining over for two years.

Him.

I had craved Hudson Ivey in a way I didn’t even know craving was possible, and that was before I’d learned his dang name.

He had no idea he’d become a possession that two enemies were warring over. All he wanted to do was graduate with his culinary arts degree and become the best chef possible.

But now he’s stuck in Genesis’s sick game until a ghost from his past changes all the rules, possessing him in a whole new, far more dangerous way.

I promised myself I was done with the paranormal life. I was determined to be a normal, everyday, average girl. But I can’t just stand aside and watch him be destroyed. So I guess it’s time for a little Faith to step in and save the day.

—

EXCERPT:

“What the hell are you wearing?”

“Huh?” He glanced down at himself, then added, “Oh. Yeah. I had my six-month evaluation at work this evening. Didn’t get a chance to change out of the monkey suit before I had to leave home again.”

I wanted to ask him why he’d had to leave home so unexpectedly in the first place, but…

He was wearing a suit.

Unable to get past that, I backed myself into the nearest wall and stared, basically forced to gawk unashamedly.

“Suit,” I whimpered, no longer operating with brain cells but supercharged by hormones alone.

He sent me an amused squint as he slipped his hand down his tie and stepped close. “Yes, I’m in a suit,” he answered before he grinned suddenly and winked at me. “And I look good in it, too, don’t I? But, uh…” He motioned his finger around me. “Why are you hovering against the wall like that?”

Hades and Persephone: The Golden Blade (Hades and Persephone duology, #2)

Hades and Persephone: The Golden Blade (Hades and Persephone duology, #2) By Erica Hastings, Heidi Hastings
Publication date: March 1, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Summary:

Book 2 in the Hades and Persephone duology.
An illustrated novel with over 50 images.

After six long months, Persephone returns to the Underworld to reunite with the God of the Dead, Hades. But the kingdom she knew has changed, and dark secrets cast uncertainty over their love. 

As a sinister plot unfolds, Hades and Persephone are thrust into a desperate race against time. The answers they seek are shrouded in shadow, and a war for all souls looms on the horizon. 

As the final battle between good and evil draws near, the King and Queen of the Underworld teeter on the brink of losing everything. Will they triumph over the impending chaos, or will evil unravel their world?

—

EXCERPT:

“Forger!” the king bellowed, his voice echoing across Tartarus. There was no answer. Hades leaped up, grasping the edges of the jagged mountainside, and began climbing the steep cliff until he reached the highest of the twin peaks. The amber flame of Tartarus lit the high mountain. “Unnamed One, show yourself!”

The ground began to shake, and a massive blue eye appeared at the edge of a mountain. Hades tightly grasped his bident and stared into the colossal orb. The eye was beautiful; the iris reflected infinity with whirling stars and planets, but in the center was an inky black pupil that left him with a feeling of despair, like a black hole in the core of a galaxy, a reminder that death was at the center of life.

“I seek answers from you,” Hades said, lowering his weapon.

Elements & Flame (The Elemental Series, #1)

Elements & Flame (The Elemental Series, #1) By Jillian Beane
Publication date: March 4, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Summary:

After losing a hard fought battle, Suleima finds a new home in the wilderness outside a small town to heal her wounds and recover her Elemental magic. 

A small town which houses a werewolf pack.
When that past begins to encroach on her new territory, she and her friends, new and old, must figure out a way to win this time. 

Will her dragon shifter best friend and the Alpha of the pack be enough to permanently remove the evil that threatens?
Rumors of a flower hidden in a cave could be what they need to tip the scales in their favor. But to get to this cave, she must face challenges that threaten everything that she has ever known.

**** Action Adventure Fantasy with Slow Burn Romance. Werewolves, Magic, Dragon shifters, Mythical Creatures. Join the characters in their Epic Journey to the top of a mountain.

—

EXCERPT:

Tracking a doe through the forest, Suleima could feel the earth breathing beneath her feet. There was nowhere near the connection to the earth and her elements in the city that she’d found here in her new home. Here, she was on her own, and away from the rapid pace of the city, away from her past, and she preferred it that way.

There was a squirrel foraging for nuts to the west, a snake sunning on a rock somewhere to the south. A pack of predators were a couple miles north—too far to judge the species. Using the earth’s essence more than her own sight, she could see the trees. Each individual leaf pulsed and vibrated with the slight breeze in the air, straining for the sun. The screech of a hawk, soaring above, brought her back to her task.

Disenchanted (A Lay of Ruinous Reign, #1)

Disenchanted (A Lay of Ruinous Reign, #1) By Brianna Sugalski
Publication date: January 23, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
Summary:

The Princess Bride and Buffy the Vampire Slayer meet Sarah J. Maas’ Throne of Glass in this Breton-inspired fantasy debut brimming with wry humor, epic adventure, and an irresistible romance.

Lilac Trécesson is a prisoner in her parents’ castle after a most wicked secret was revealed on the eve of her fifteenth birthday. Years later, her Accession looms upon her father’s decision to abdicate, and between the riotous townsfolk and scheming noble bent on snatching her throne, she prepares for the worst… Until a letter arrives from The Witch of Lupine Grotto, containing a curious offer to banish her curse forever.

She begrudgingly trades her coronet for a cloak and ventures into the forest Brocéliande, only to find herself cornered by a bloodthirsty barkeep who demands her help in exchange for protection against the even deadlier forces of the woods.

With only the protection of her inherited dagger—and unsolicited help of the sardonic stranger who inserts himself on her quest—Lilac must find the impious enchantress and return in time to claim her crown. Pity the fool to underestimate the girl with subpar blade skills but the spite to make up for it.

This is the tale of a cursed princess,
A crestfallen killer,
The town that wants them to burn,
And the witch who can save them both.

—

SNEAK PEAK:

Awakening (The Regonia Chronicles, #1)

Awakening (The Regonia Chronicles, #1) By Elexis Bell
Publication date: February 20, 2024
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance, Science Fiction
Summary:

Tortured by memories implanted by his captors, Krona knows only one thing. He must find Tenna, his partner, his Queen. She can’t be dead. 

But when Ricardo, one of his human guards, tells him she’s alive on another space station, the truth might be just as painful as their lies.

With her memories missing and her planet supposedly destroyed, Tenna struggles to acclimate to life among humans. 

Olivia, a spaceship pilot and hacker, does her best to help. When a guard shows up with an alien Tenna knows she’s seen before, it’s obvious things aren’t what they seem.

When they learn that family ties bind enemy and ally, Krona and Tenna can only hope the honor they see in their human friends is strong enough to overcome blood. 

Can they work together to save themselves, their minds, and their tribe? Or will they lose everything?

—

EXCERPT:

Ricardo

I sit on the bench in Francis’ quarters, peering out the window at the black expanse of space. I pull my leg up underneath me as she plops onto her bed. My eyes focus on her reflection for an instant, drawn to the flash of her red hair, but I return my gaze to the stars.
After working some magic on her Link to loop camera and recorder feeds from her room, she says, “Okay. We’re good. Now, what’s wrong?”

I turn to face her, stomach in knots.

“Something isn’t right,” I say.

And everything pours out.

In the Shadow of a Dream (Fareview Fairytales, #3)

In the Shadow of a Dream (Fareview Fairytales, #3) By Maci Aurora
Publication date: January 30th 2024

Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance

With the promise of finally learning her mother’s secrets, Brinna Fareview and her family gather together. Only somewhere between the truth and lies, Brinna wakes to find she’s trapped in a space in between the world awake and the nightmares of her family. 

All of them are asleep. Learning she has the ability to move from dream to dream, Brinna tries to find a way out of the dream world, but she’s stuck, unable to fix what’s ailing her family. But then an unexpected thing happens, Lucian Uraiahs, god of day and light, walks into her dream.

While Lucian decided a long time ago that Brinna Fareview was a blight on his peace, he can’t seem to avoid her. She pops up at every turn, all because his brother is god-yoked to her sister. All Lucian wants is to disappear into the oblivion of the cosmos amidst his shame and guilt, but the unbidden feelings he has for Brinna can’t be contained. 

When Lucian is stripped of his powers for refusing to bend to his father’s will, he is imprisoned with only his guilt to keep him company. Except when he falls asleep, he dreams of Brinna and somehow becomes the only link to saving her, her family, and his brother from a spell that could destroy them all.

Brinna and Lucian must work together to uncover the secrets they need to break the sleeping spell, but the longer they share their dreams, the more they realize time is against them.

Join the Fareviews in book three of the Fareview Fairytales series, In the Shadow of a Dream, to discover the truth that has them trapped behind the hedge.

—

EXCERPT:

Luc grumbled and turned back to look at the hedge once more, walking its length when he heard women’s voices—sweet and lilting—coming from inside. He stepped back, searching for the elusive entrance.

“Remember when we were talking to Tarley the other day? About the man in the woods?” Aurielle—he knew her voice—replied.

“So romantic…” the other said, her voice soft and whimsical. Which left only two possibilities: Luc’s woodland fairy or the other sister, the one with the dark, soulful eyes. “Why are we doing this again?” she asked.

He wondered which one was with Aurielle and suppressed any hope it might be his singer.

“Well, I’ve met someone.” Aurielle snapped the words, because the other one seemed to be antagonistic about being dragged out into the woods.

He grinned at their bickering. Relatable.

Flame & Shadow (The Dae Diaries, #1)

Flame & Shadow (The Dae Diaries, #1) By AK Nevermore
Published by: The Wild Rose Press
Publication date: November 13, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Romance, Urban Fantasy
Summary:

Half-daemon Envy Starr is destined to die on Midsummer’s Eve, still a virgin, on some crappy cult’s live-stream feed. With thirty days left to live, the chance to escape her fate and get some action compels her into her absentee father’s world of beautifully cultured cruelty.

Once there, she’s the object of a deadly game, slated to alter the Fae realm’s power structure. Worse, the rules keep changing, and everyone has an ulterior motive, including her dae-licious guide, Brennan. Under a geas he’s desperate to break, she can’t trust him, or herself.

Stupid Stockholm syndrome.

But unless she can come to terms with what lies in her heart, her unlikely survival will be a fate worse than death. For her, and the rest of Fae.

—

EXCERPT:

I stabbed a stupid crepe, trying not to think about Kyle and Berk back in Vel. I was sure they were okay. I just wasn’t sure I’d ever see them again. Who was I kidding? They, and everyone else in the pub, would’ve written me off, and they’d be right to. I told you, getting snagged by a fae had a survival rate of zero. At least, nobody I’d ever heard of had come back to tell the tale.

Despite my cheery thoughts, I won’t lie, the crepes were just about the best thing I’d ever eaten. I figured I could die happy with them in my stomach. The imp seemed pleased when I said so and asked for seconds. As soon as I’d finished, the daemon tucked away his paper and lit a long, gold-filtered cigarette. The imp came back with espresso. I was feeling fancy and had mine with a twist.

A Patch of Romance (A Coffee Break Mystery, #4)

A Patch of Romance (A Coffee Break Mystery, #4) By J.C. Valentine
Publication date: October 25, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Romance
Summary:

Callie’s status as a single mom is about to end when she meets up with local dad, Scott Prince, at the pumpkin patch. Love is definitely in the air…or is that just pumpkin spice? Either way, Callie is about to embark on a seriously satisfying journey. 

That is, until the mystery knocker comes knocking. Is it just a Halloween prank, or is someone trying to send her a message—the deadly kind?

As Callie and Scott traverse the dating life with one another and ring in the holidays with the hope of uniting them all as one big, patchwork family, the lingering question of who keeps knocking and what they want looms in the shadows, waiting to be answered. 

Will Callie and Scott reveal the truth behind the eerie knocking before something it’s too late? And will they ever get their happily ever after?

Follow Callie and Scott’s journey from wary strangers to soulmates in this feel-good holiday romance. With a friends-to-lovers romance, family bonding moments, cozy Christmas traditions, and a found family trope, this wholesome love story will get you in the holiday spirit. 

Curl up with a mug of hot cocoa and let the magic of the season bring this unlikely pair together one knock at a time.

—

EXCERPT:

“Okay, you wild banshees, costumes are ready to go!” I called up the stairs. Instantly, I heard the pounding of little feet as Lily and Ethan raced down the stairs, with Lily predictably in the lead, eager to transform into their Halloween alter-egos.

“Beware the Headless Horseman!” Lily cried, tossing her hooded cape dramatically over her grinning face. Next to her, Ethan was assembling his white boxy Minecraft costume, complete with pixelated foam sword.

I knelt down and made the final adjustments, securing Ethan’s headpiece and Lily’s belt, then ushered them toward the door. “Let’s hit those sidewalks before all the good candy is gone!” I declared.

A Hallowed Date (A Coffee Break Mystery, #3)

A Hallowed Date (A Coffee Break Mystery, #3) By J.C. Valentine
Publication date: October 18, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Romance
Summary:

Ava is head over heels for her brooding neighbor Ryan, but he barely knows she exists. When he finally pays attention just in time for Halloween, her favorite holiday, Ava is determined to win him over with her bubbly personality and holiday cheer.

But amidst blossoming romance, a mystery unfolds when Ava’s intricately carved pumpkins begin to vanish from her porch overnight. Enlisting Ryan’s help, Ava tries to catch the culprit behind the pumpkin disappearances and solve the spooky whodunit.

As they draw closer to unmasking the pumpkin bandit, Ava wonders if Ryan will ever see her as more than just a friend. Can All Hallow’s Eve cast a spell to turn their friendship into true love? Or will Ava’s heart be left hollow when the case is closed?

This delightfully spooky romantic comedy blends quirky mystery with the magic of the Halloween season.

—

EXCERPT:

The sound of footsteps had me glancing up to see Ryan shuffling up the walkway toward me, looking only slightly bleary-eyed. His dark hair was endearingly mussed from sleep.

“Good morning, sunshine,” I said brightly, puzzled as to why he was gracing me with his presence. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your company this fine morning?” It wasn’t typical for us to converse most days, aside from a passing nod or hello. This was…unexpected.

“I think I had too much of your magic brew last night,” he said, coming to sit in the vacant seat beside me, only a small wedge of an attached table standing between us.

For the Love of Villains: Anthology

For the Love of Villains: Anthology
Publication date: October 13, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Romancebr

Summary:

I shouldn’t be falling in love… 

Fear fuels my every move…the pulsating adrenaline tickling my spine. 

I shouldn’t sacrifice safe and secure for dangerous and deranged… 

I shouldn’t be attracted to morally corrupt… 

Yet… 

Arousal is coating my traumatized heart… 

And I’m running right into the arms of the wrong person.
The 𝒗𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒂𝒊𝒏.

Some of your favorite authors have teamed up to bring to you TWENTY-SIX new stories in every shade of morally gray you can think of. From mafia to bully, dark romance and age gap… you will find villains living in these pages.

𝑫𝒐 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒃𝒂𝒅?

—

A Monster Mash Made for Two (A Coffee Break Mystery, #2)

A Monster Mash Made for Two (A Coffee Break Mystery, #2) By J.C. Valentine
Publication date: October 11, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Mystery, Romance
Summary:

In the haunted town of Oakdale, sparks fly between bartender Noah and shy photographer Allison amidst costumes and spooky decor at his tavern’s monster bash on All Hallows’ Eve. 

But Allison experiences unexplained supernatural events—glimpses of a shadowy figure that may be the legendary Irish Jack’s ghost. 

Are these just harmless paranormal tricks leading up to Halloween, or could the haunting be real?

Amid lingering questions of the paranormal, cute surprises, and creative dates, Noah and Allison’s connection deepens, until they both begin entertaining ideas of taking their lives and relationship to the next step. 

But even the sweetest romances have challenges. Will their sweet romance end as just another holiday fling?

—

EXCERPT:

Tonight was Halloween eve; otherwise known around here as O’Reilly’s famous annual monster bash, apparently. My stomach fluttered thinking about seeing Noah the handsome bartender again. He was a tall drink of water with all the southern charm to boot. I’d have to be dead not to be smitten.

When Kara picked me up in her compact EV, I barely recognized her beneath an elaborate red and black vampire ensemble with voluminous curled hair framing her gorgeous face. Clearly, she hadn’t been kidding about playing into the tavern’s unofficial motto by going all out.

“You make one sexy witch!” she exclaimed. “I knew that would be the right choice for you. Let’s go break some hearts!”

Fallen Raven Audiobook (Raven Duet, #1)

Fallen Raven Audiobook (Raven Duet, #1) By Diana A. Hicks
Publication date: September 21, 2023
Buy Link: Amazon
Genres: Adult, Romance
Summary:

Now a 2023 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Romance – Contemporary genre!

“Diana A. Hicks painted a slow-burn romance balanced on the dark edge of danger…Fallen Raven will capture the minds of readers who enjoy Mafia political romances with plenty of action to entertain them.” – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer

Seventeen-year-old Aurora Vitali didn’t have the best life in Las Vegas, but it was a place to call home. When her father scores a win after so many fails, he abruptly moves the whole family to the Upper East Side in New York City. Aurora is quickly seduced by the glitz and glamour of her new world, where designer clothes, limos, and beach parties are the norm.

Her first day at their elite school, she meets Enzo Alfera, one of the royals. He’s rich, gorgeous, and so dangerous. The magnetic pull she feels when he’s near is absolutely irresistible. She’s warned to stay away, and that’s exactly what she plans to do. Except every time their paths cross, neither one of them can deny their powerful attraction.

Going against their parents’ wishes, they give into their burning desires. He’s dark and cunning. She’s sweet and innocent. Together, they are explosive.

But their parents have plans of their own. The choices they make to get ahead threaten to pull Aurora and Enzo apart. Now the star-crossed lovers have to decide if their forbidden love is worth going against everything and everyone.

Enzo knows what he wants. And he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep Aurora for himself. If he fails, it could destroy them both.

A Note from Diana: Fallen Raven is book one in the Raven Duet, which is a standalone romance in the Society World featuring Enzo Alfera and Aurora Vitali. This modern day Romeo and Juliet retelling is about never letting go. Check TW

This book features:
He falls first
Star-Crossed lovers
Angst, family feud
Forbidden love

—

EXCERPT:

“We’ll decide on Saturday then.” I made to get up, but Donata gripped my shoulder.

“I still need to tell you something about Rory.” She waited until I settled back into my folding chair.

“So what do you have on her? Any boyfriends we should know about?” Rex asked. This was his territory. Rex knew secrets made the world go round.

I turned my attention to Donata. All this time, I hadn’t considered the idea that Aurora might already be in love with someone else.

“No boyfriend.” She beamed, thoroughly pleased with herself. “A fiancé.”