Aug 31, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, Shana Galen
Guest Post: Top 5 Most Romantic Pick-ups by Shana Galen
We all know the story—two people from different worlds who meet under the most unlikely circumstances, and despite all the odds, fall in love. I love those stories, and at their heart, most of my books touch on this theme to some degree or another. In The Rogue You Know the hero and heroine really are from two different worlds. Gideon is a thief from the notorious Seven Dials rookery who has absolutely nothing. Susanna is the daughter of an earl, who has everything she could ever want or need. They meet when Gideon climbs through the library of Susanna’s town house. He’s looking for a friend, and she’s looking for a way out. She hits him in the head with a candlestick, which isn’t the most romantic of meetings, but it certainly makes an impression! The meeting of the hero and heroine is always my favorite scene to write. Here are my top 5 most romantic pick-ups.
1) Rapunzel Hits Flynn Rider with the Frying Pan in Tangled
If you’re thinking this sounds a lot like Gideon and Susanna’s first meet, you’d be right! The Rogue You Know is loosely based on the Disney film Tangled. From Flynn’s broken smolder to Rapunzel’s too-free use of that frying pan, the meeting of my favorite Disney couple is romantic, funny, and memorable.
2) The Pressing of Hands in Romeo and Juliet
Okay, so the ending of this story isn’t the happiest, but no one can deny that the sparks fly when these star-crossed lovers meet and fall instantly in love. Shakespeare makes the simple act of touching hands both heart-melting and sigh-worthy.
3) Hugh Grant Spills Juice on Julia Roberts in Notting Hill
I admit that I’m a huge Hugh Grant fan. He does bumbling and charming so well. Paired with Julia Roberts, Notting Hill couldn’t not be cute and romantic. Plus, it takes place in a bookstore. That’s it. I’m sold.
4) Hugh Grant (this time as Prime Minister) Meets Natalie, His New Housekeeper in Love, Actually
I know! Another Hugh Grant movie. I told you I like him. This movie has a lot of great meets, but my favorite is when the Prime Minister meets Natalie, and she’s so nervous she can’t stop cursing. Hilarious!
5) Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore Meet Over Waffles (and Meet Over Waffles) in 50 First Dates
Any movie that has this many romantic meetings between the two characters destined to fall in love deserves a mention. Sandler has to woo Barrymore every day, and he is super romantic and creative about it. One can’t even claim he’s in it for himself because he has to start over from the beginning every day and doesn’t get much except the opportunity to spend more time with the woman he’s falling in love with. I could swoon.
What’s your favorite romantic meeting from a movie, TV, or a book?
Buy Links
Amazon: https://amzn.to/1hidOmA
Barnes and Noble: https://bit.ly/1UlC0m7
iBooks: https://apple.co/1M9L0JI
IndieBound: https://bit.ly/1IWkOBI
Author Biography
Shana Galen is the bestselling author of passionate Regency romps, including the RT Reviewers’ Choice The Making of a Gentleman. Kirkus says of her books, “The road to happily-ever-after is intense, conflicted, suspenseful and fun,” and RT Book Reviews calls her books “lighthearted yet poignant, humorous yet touching.” She taught English at the middle and high school level off and on for eleven years. Most of those years were spent working in Houston’s inner city. Now she writes full time. She’s happily married and has a daughter who is most definitely a romance heroine in the making. Shana loves to hear from readers, so send her an email or see what she’s up to daily on Facebook and Twitter. Stop by her website at shanagalen.com.
Social Networking Links
Website: https://www.shanagalen.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShanaGalen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/shanagalen
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/93709.Shana_Galen
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Aug 21, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, Tawny Weber
A SEALs Temptation by Tawny Weber explores family expectations, loss and friendships that are the essence of a sizzlin’ SEAL story. Dear readers, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – absolutely every book I’ve read by Tawny has been perfection and this book is no exception.
When you read a Tawny Weber book you expect romance, secrets and mayhem from sexy Navy SEALs. As well as a story line that excites and satisfies you in every way. You may also find yourself craving a few sweet baked goods too. Be sure to indulge in something sinful before you sit down to inhale this decadent Blaze delight. Don’t say I didn’t warn you 😉
Lark Sommers has found herself working in a small town in Idaho at a coffee house putting her career on hold indefinitely. While magic infused baked goods and coffee served with promises of love and good fortune sounds delightful, it leaves very little time for a social life. Lucky for Lark, a dear friend decides to spread a little magic into her social life. Will it work?
Petty Officer Shane “Scavenger” O’Brian is a SEAL and not interested in relationships, nothing can compromise his focus on his missions. Things are compounded with his family upset he’s in the military and it’s complicated everything. When his sister insists on a visit home, he reluctantly agrees. What he doesn’t count on is his sisters friend Lark igniting something he can’t shake. Will he still be able to maintain his composure and focus?
Secrets, loss and sacrifice are things Lark and Shane can understand, will they find a way to act on their feelings without compromising their dreams? Can Shane discover that he doesn’t have to push a woman away to still have his career? There is a reason he left town a long time ago, can he find a way to face his past and let Lark in?
Again, I LOVE how each SEAL book from Tawny always brings back her previous characters that we fell in love with. If you are looking for a quick read that has SEALs, romance and H-A-W-T magical writing, you won’t be disappointed. If you are looking for a great story with a super sexy cover and a story that will leave you fulfilled with character updates from your favorites, this has it too!
At almost 300 pages there is enough sizzle to make you tingle and satisfy that SEAL itch. This book is for mature readers, 18+
While this book can be read as a stand alone, I loved reading these sexy SEALs in order. If you’re new to Tawny just jump in and start. I received this ARC from the author for a fair and honest review. At a price of $4.49 it’s a must buy and a must read for this sizzling book from Tawny Don’t miss out – get your copy now!.
In case you missed it, here are my previous reviews of those Sexy SEAL’s and a Coffee With interview. Enjoy!
A SEAL’s Secret: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/05/04/a-spicy-latte-for-a-seals-secret-by-tawny-weber-a-tasty-virtual-tour/
A SEAL’s Pleasure: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/05/05/a-spicy-latte-for-a-seals-pleasure-a-tasty-book-tour/
A SEAL’s Sacrifice: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/01/07/its-new-years-eve-and-its-time-to-meet-another-sexy-seal/
Christmas With a SEAL: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/12/24/its-a-spicy-latte-christmas-eve-theres-a-sexy-seal-thats-waiting-for-you-this-holiday-season/
A SEAL’s Fantasy: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/09/a-seals-fantasy-is-perfection/
A SEAL’s Kiss: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/08/will-this-kiss-be-enough/
A SEAL’s Salvation: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/07/what-is-your-salvation/
A SEAL’s Surrender: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/06/what-would-it-take-for-you-to-surrender/
A SEAL’s Seduction: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/05/are-you-ready-for-a-little-seduction/
Get to know Tawny – Coffee With: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2014/09/04/coffee-with-tawny-weber/
Author Info:
New York Times and USA TODAY Bestselling author of thirty books and counting, Tawny Weber has been writing sassy, sexy romances since her first one hit the shelves in 2007. A fan of Johnny Depp, cupcakes and color coordination, she spends a lot of her time shopping for cute shoes, scrapbooking and hanging out on Facebook.
Readers can check out Tawny’s books at her website, https://www.tawnyweber.com, or join her Red Hot Readers Club for goodies like free reads, complete first chapter excerpts, recipes, insider story info and much more.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Website: https://www.tawnyweber.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TawnyWeber.RomanceAuthor
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/tawnyweber
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/513828.Tawny_Weber
Aug 17, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, Maggie Kelley
Unexpectedly His by Maggie Kelley dazzles us once again in this matchmaking series. The characters are fun, witty and absolutely fabulous. Another must read that doesn’t disappoint.This Smart Cupid series is simply amazing and is the perfect way to start the week!
Marianne McBride prefers to stay out of the spotlight. So how does she end up in a birthday cake wearing a skimpy outfit, a mask and killer shoes? Fearful that her identity will be discovered, she takes off before anyone can figure out who she is.
Nick Wright wants to succeed at his firm and the only way to cinch a partnership is to settle down and get married. When a slip of the tongue reveals he has a fiancé, it’s time to produce this bride-to-be or risk the long awaited promotion.
With the help of his sister and her matchmaking firm, he seeks their help to find him a temporary solution. There is just one little hiccup and it involves Marianne. Will Nick figure out all of Marianne’s secrets? Six weeks is all he’s asking for. There’s just one catch – nothing physical. Can they agree to not act on the intense attraction they have? Can they convince his work and her family that they are truly in love forever, without touching?
Both have secrets that may jeopardize their happy and blessed union. Maybe cupid knows what she’s doing after all and the program does really work, even if it’s with her best friends brother.
Read and discover a hot, passionate and hilarious look at what happens when love shows up in the most unexpected place. A confirmed serial one-night-dater and a woman itching to prove she’s more than just a computer geek. Will cupids arrow strike again?
I received this ARC from the publisher for a fair and honest review. I look forward to the next installment and can’t wait to see whose story is next!
In Case You Missed my review of the book that started it all, Breaking the Bachelor Book 1 in the Smart Cupid Series, here is my review. Dear readers act fast – it’s a Kindle Deal priced at $0.99 and another must read!
This book is hot, passionate and has the perfect amount of comedic relief as it explores dating, friendships and life. A fabulous debut novel for Maggie Kelley.
Better yet – at $0.99 it’s a perfect price. Download it now and get started!
Author Info:
After ten years of survival, aka working, in Hollywood, this former actress and current author of sexy contemporary romance is living happily-ever-after in Pittsburgh with her longtime sweetie, and their two punky kids. When not carpooling to birthday parties or testing her gourmet cooking skills by throwing a frozen pizza into the oven, Maggie daydreams about sneaking off to the Vegas or Napa, or even just the movies. A love of red wine, Italian food, and music round out her list of life’s greatest joys. Oh, and Tuesday night karaoke, totally underrated fun.
Aug 10, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, Naima Simone
Beauty and the Bachelor by Naima Simone is a contemporary romance that’s packed with revenge, blackmail and intense sizzle.
What would you do if someone destroyed your family and knocked your “emotions” meter off it’s balance? Lucas Oliver is seeking revenge against his family and will stop at nothing to get what he wants. In order for his plan to work he must destroy his enemy without any discovering his motives.
Sydney Blake is the daughter of a wealthy business man who is bitter and judgmental, she’s just another pawn in his business dealings. As if things couldn’t possibly get any worse for Sydney, she must endure the rest of family who never seems to put her needs first.
Even when she’s at a highly publicized bachelor auction to raise money for the family business, will she risk her happiness to protect her family? The auction is anything but simple and Sydney must make split second decisions. Will she continue to be the dutiful daughter her family expects? Or, will she finally put her needs first?
Both Lucas and her father have plans for Sydney, who will succeed? Each with their own set of consequences and sacrifices. Will she stand up to her father and decide on her own what makes her happy regardless of the outcome? Can Lucas unlock her true desires and be the woman she was meant to be?
If Sydney can survive Lucas and his scheming and intoxicating demands, her heart might stay intact. Unless she discovers the real reason they were brought together.
A roller coaster of emotional highs and lows in this spicy page turner! Who will come out on top as everyone battles for control and ultimate power?
If you’re a reader that judges a book by it’s cover then you will LOVE this one. The black and white with a pop of red makes it mysterious and sexy. Naima has brought us characters and a story that is engaging and exciting. At an e-book price of $2.99 it makes it a must read. Discover yourself how much fun a bachelor auction can be!
I received this ARC from the publisher for a fair and honest review. I look forward to reading the next installment to find out whose story will be told.
This super sizzling three pepper read is for mature readers 18+.
Proceed with caution, it’s pretty hot and may offend. 
Author Bio:
Naima Simone’s love of romance was first stirred by Johanna Lindsey, Sandra Brown and Linda Howard many years ago. Well not that many. She is only eighteen…ish. Though her first attempt at a romance novel starring Ralph Tresvant from New Edition never saw the light of day, her love of romance, reading and writing has endured. Published since 2009, she spends her days—and nights— creating stories of unique men and women who experience the first bites of desire, the dizzying heights of passion, and the tender, healing heat of love.
She is wife to Superman, or his non-Kryptonian, less bullet proof equivalent, and mother to the most awesome kids ever. They all live in perfect, sometimes domestically-challenged bliss in the southern United States. Come visit Naima at www.naimasimone.com.
Aug 6, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, J. Kenner
On My Knees: A Stark Novel (Stark International Trilogy Book 2) by J. Kenner continues the saga of Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks. Jackson, a highly sought after architect is recruited for a major project with Stark Industries but can’t seem to escape his past, everyone wants a piece of him. Considering how private Jackson is, this creates a challenge. What will it take to bring him to his knees?
Sylvia Brooks works for Stark Industries and has an explosive history with Jackson. Can she move forward with her new job or will the connection be too intense to ignore? Working for the powerful Stark Family means taking risks both professionally and personally. Can she prove she’s worthy of the task?
Too many decisions need to be made and when it trickles down, no one is safe from harm’s way. Can love conquer all? Trust, power, betrayal – it’s all just business to Jackson. If Sylvia wants to work at Stark, she needs to be loyal to her boss. Unfortunately it comes with a heavy price. There are secrets still left unspoken between Jackson and Sylvia. Will it destroy them both?
Jackson and Sylvia they have to deal with family betrayal, pain, fear and distrust. Their lives will be intertwined in ways you won’t see coming. Jackson is a man that must always be in control. Will Sylvia be his downfall or his savior? Will she forgive him when he betrays her trust?
Dear readers, this must-read book is the second in a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. J. Kenner brings us fantastic characters with many layers, a story that moves fast and the heat…well the sizzle is absolutely sinful. I give this story four peppers for full on no holds barred and “go for it” sensuality & situations.
I received this ARC for a fair and honest review and look forward to the next installment to discover what’s next at Stark Industries.
For those of you who have not read the first book in this series check out my review of Say My Name (Book 1): https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/03/28/a-spicy-latte-from-a-2015-rita-finalist/
To discover a bit more about J. Kenner check out my Coffee With here: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/02/26/coffee-with-j-kenner/
Author Info:
J. Kenner (aka Julie Kenner) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Wall Street Journal and International bestselling author of over seventy novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.
Though known primarily for her award-winning and international bestselling erotic romances (including the Stark and Most Wanted series) that have reached as high as #2 on the New York Times bestseller list, JK has been writing full time for over a decade in a variety of genres including paranormal and contemporary romance, “chicklit” suspense, urban fantasy, Victorian-era thrillers (coming soon), and paranormal mommy lit.
Her foray into the latter, Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner, has been consistently in development in Hollywood since prior to publication. Most recently, it has been optioned by Warner Brothers Television for development as series on the CW Network with Alloy Entertainment producing.
JK has been praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations” and by RT Bookclub for having “cornered the market on sinfully attractive, dominant antiheroes and the women who swopn for him.” A three time finalist for Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award, JK took home the first RITA trophy awarded in the category of erotic romance in 2014 for her novel, Claim Me (book 2 of her Stark Trilogy).
Her books have sold well over a million copies and are published in over twenty countries.
In her previous career as an attorney, JK worked as a clerk on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, and practiced primarily civil, entertainment and First Amendment litigation in Los Angeles and Irvine, California, as well as in Austin, Texas. She currently lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and two rather spastic cats.
Aug 5, 2015 | August 2015, Blog, Samantha Chase
This month, bestselling author Samantha Chase launches her new contemporary romance series the Shaughnessy Brothers. In the series starter, MADE FOR US, readers are introduced to the five amazing Shaughnessy brothers–each more successful than the last. From a building contractor, to a scientist, to a former racecar driver, and even a rock star, these brothers are as different as can be, but also extremely close. Losing their mother early in their lives solidified the brotherly bond and helping raise their baby sister also brought them together. But with their sister raised and careers in order it is time for the next phase in their lives. And while these brothers might not be looking for happily-ever-afters, romance is looking for them! Below get to know each of these sexy Shaughnessys starting with Aidan from MADE FOR US.
Name: Aidan Shaughnessy
Occupation: Building Contractor
Height: 6’2
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Age: 34
What makes you the perfect date?
No one – including myself – has ever said that! But if I had to say something, it would be that I like to take care of all the details so that my date doesn’t have to worry about a thing.
What do you look for in a woman?
Typically someone strong and independent but also enjoys being taken care of.
Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
I’m a bit of a control freak – or so I’ve been told! I’m hard working and know exactly what I want out of life. I can be quiet and observant – a bit of a people watcher. I don’t enjoy crowds very much. I prefer if I’m out, to be out in a small group or with one person.
***
Name: Hugh Shaughnessy
Occupation: Luxury Resort Owner/Designer
Height: 6’3
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Age: 32
What makes you the perfect date?
I am extremely attentive. I believe in taking a woman out for a romantic dinner with dancing and candlelight and making her feel like she is the most important thing in the world.
What do you look for in a woman?
She’s intelligent and easy to talk to but who isn’t looking for forever. I travel a lot and she would need to be understanding of that.
Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
I’m a really regimented man. I mean really. I like things done a certain way and I’m a stickler for routines and schedules. Some say I’m overly cautious – in every aspect of my life – but that doesn’t mean that I’m boring. I have an appreciation for the finer things and I’m outgoing and enjoy being around people and making new friends.
***
Name: Quinn Shaughnessy
Occupation: Former Race Car Driver turned Automotive Restorer
Height: 6’
Hair Color: Dirty Blonde
Eye Color: Blue
Age: 30
What makes you the perfect date?:
I’m the fun one in the family. I like to go out with a woman to a bar or someplace with loud music or find something athletic to do. I want to be where the party is.
What do you look for in a woman?
I’ll admit to being a little shallow here – I am all about looks. Tall, blonde, curvy…and that’s about it.
Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
Like I said, I’m the fun one. I am all about living life to the fullest. I enjoy sports – all sports – and I hate to be idle. Cars are my current passion and to me it’s go-big-or-go-home. If I can’t succeed and excel at something, then it’s time to move on. So far it’s worked for me.
***
Name: Owen Shaughnessy
Occupation: Astrophysicist
Height: 6’
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Age: 28
What makes you the perfect date?
I don’t really think I am. I don’t believe perfect is something anyone can attain. Dating really hasn’t been on my radar but when I do take a woman out, we usually talk about science. And she’s normally a scientist so I guess you can say I make sure we talk about mutual interests.
What do you look for in a woman?
I spend a lot of my time trying to not be noticed. But if I notice a woman, it’s usually because we’re both working together or studying together. I look for someone who understands me.
Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
Quiet. Shy. Socially awkward. At least that’s how most people tell me I am. I don’t think about it much. I’m devoted to my field of study and helping others learn about astrophysics and it pretty much consumes all of my time and energy.
***
Name: Riley Shaughnessy
Occupation: Musician/Rock Star
Height: 6’
Hair Color: Dark Brown
Eye Color: Blue
Age: 28
What makes you the perfect date?
When I’m out on a date with a woman, there is no one else in the world. I put all of my attention on her and do my best to make sure that our date includes everything she wants.
What do you look for in a woman?
I used to be all about the looks – mainly because women were always chasing after me. I had superficial relationships, now I look for a woman who sees more than a rock star, a celebrity. I want to find someone who just sees me.
Describe yourself in 100 words or less:
Confident. Talented. And currently, mildly insecure. I have always loved music, loved to sing and if I couldn’t do that, I don’t know what I’d do with myself. Music is just a part of me. I put my partying ways behind me – not that I had much of one. I’m just as comfortable on stage in front of thousands of people, as I am at home watching TV.
***
Samantha Chase Book Bundle and Shaughnessy Brothers Tee Shirt
Click on link to enter
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Buy Links
Amazon: https://amzn.to/1CUdwvA
Barnes and Noble: https://bit.ly/1Kje4hf
iBooks: https://apple.co/1SAHlTT
IndieBound: https://bit.ly/1DtcvFI
Above post was provided by the publisher for “Meet the Shaughnessy Brothers” spotlight tour. Giveaway is also provided by the publisher and the winner will be notified after the tour is over. Buy links were also provided by the publisher for the spotlight tour.
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Still want more of Samantha Chase and The Shaughnessy Brothers
and The Montgomery Brothers?
In Case You Missed It
One winner will be randomly selected at the end of the Blitz.
Comment for a chance to win – my contest ends on 8/5/15 at 12 Noon.
Winner will be contacted via e-mail.
Here are the links from each daily post in the Blitz & the giveaway. You still have a chance to win!
Click on the links below and comment 🙂
Day 1: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/07/31/samantha-chase-blitz-day-1-a-double-shot-of-montgomery-men-giveaway/comment-page-1/#comment-894
Day 2: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/08/01/samantha-chase-blitz-day-2-another-double-shot-of-montgomery-men-giveaway/
Day 3: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/08/02/samantha-chase-blitz-day-3-more-montgomery-men-giveaway/
Day 4: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/08/03/day-4-samantha-chase-blitz-coffee-with-samantha-chase-giveaway/
Day 5: https://booksilovealatte.wordpress.com/2015/08/04/happy-book-birthday-samantha-chase-made-for-us-the-shaughnessy-brothers-is-here/
Author Biography
New York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.
When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in North Carolina.
Social Networking Links
Website: https://www.chasing-romance.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SamanthaChaseFanClub
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SamanthaChase3
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1250276.Samantha_Chase
