RELEASE BLITZ WITH EXCERPT: Embracing the Change by Kristen Ashley

EMBRACING THE CHANGE, a slow-burn, forced proximity, second-chance, friends-to-lovers billionaire romance from New York Times Bestselling Author, Kristen Ashley, is out now!

Scroll down for an excerpt!

 

 

He can’t go there.

She can’t go on without it…

 

 

That Kiss…

Gorgeous New York socialite, Nora Ellington has been waiting a very long time for her happily ever after.

So long, she’s given up on it and has decided, even though she’s the plus-one friend without benefits to a man she’s head over heels in love with, an HEA will forever be out of her reach.

Handsome billionaire Jamie Oakley thought he’d had two happily ever afters in his life. However, neither lasted long, and both ended in tragedy. He’s not about to try it again or put his children through the trauma Jamie has learned from experience undoubtedly will come their way.

And he’s made this decision even if the woman who’s become his constant companion is a woman he loves straight to his soul….and wants with everything that is him.

But then, one night, Jamie loses control and kisses Nora.

He can’t go there.

She can’t go on without it.

They’ll never be the same.

Or will they?

 

 

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

Amazon US  |  Amazon Worldwide  |  Amazon Paperback  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Nook  |  B&N Paperback  |  Audiobook  |  Audible

 

Add to Goodreads

 

 

“A tender yet intense journey from friends-to-lovers…thick with steamy tension and heart-tugging emotion…” ~Danielle, Red Cheeks Reads

 

Check out Danielle’s 5 SMOOCHES review!

 

 

EXCERPT:

His fork clattered on his plate, the sudden sound surprising me so much, I gave a slight jump as Jamie turned fully to me.

“Right, we’re here.”

Oh dear.

I wasn’t sure what “here” meant.

But I was sure I didn’t want to be there.

He carried on. “I know you don’t want to talk about it, and I’ll give you more time, but I do want to talk about it. However, for now I’ll just say, I can have you as I’ll allow myself to have you.”

As he’ll allow himself to have me?

What on earth did that mean?

“And in so doing, I have you,” Jamie continued. “You mean something to me. You’re mine. You’re a part of my life. You’re a member of my family. And I think you know I take care of those I love, Nora. That being the man I am, I cannot countenance this jackass annoying you or taking your time or infiltrating your life in any way that does not involve the children you share. Am I being clear?”

You’re mine.

I take care of those I love.

You’re…

Mine.

Those…

I…

Love.

“Nora,” he called. “Am I being clear?”

 

 

 


About Kristen Ashley:

Kristen Ashley is the New York Times bestselling author of over eighty romance novels. She’s a hybrid author, publishing titles both independently and traditionally, her books have been translated in fourteen languages and she’s sold millions of books.

Kristen, born in Gary and raised in Brownsburg, Indiana and was a fourth-generation graduate of Purdue University. Since, she has lived in Denver, the West Country of England, and she now resides in Phoenix. She worked as a charity executive for eighteen years prior to beginning her independent publishing career. She now writes full-time.

Although romance is her genre, the prevailing themes running through all of Kristen’s novels are friendship, family and a strong sisterhood. To this end, and as a way to thank her readers for their support, Kristen has created the Rock Chick Nation, a series of programs that are designed to give back to her readers and promote a strong female community. You can learn more about Kristen and the Rock Chick Nation on her website.

Connect with Kristen:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Pinterest  |  Twitter  |  Amazon  |  Bookbub  |  Goodreads

Sign up for Kristen’s newsletter!

 

REVIEW: Embracing the Change by Kristen Ashley

5 SMOOCHES!

* * * * * * * * * *

SYNOPSIS:

That Kiss…

Gorgeous New York socialite, Nora Ellington has been waiting a very long time for her happily ever after.

So long, she’s given up on it and has decided, even though she’s the plus-one friend without benefits to a man she’s head over heels in love with, an HEA will forever be out of her reach.

Handsome billionaire Jamie Oakley thought he’d had two happily ever afters in his life. However, neither lasted long, and both ended in tragedy. He’s not about to try it again or put his children through the trauma Jamie has learned from experience undoubtedly will come their way.

And he’s made this decision even if the woman who’s become his constant companion is a woman he loves straight to his soul….and wants with everything that is him.

But then, one night, Jamie loses control and kisses Nora.

He can’t go there.

She can’t go on without it.

They’ll never be the same.

Or will they?

 

* * * * * * * * * *

REVIEW:

Kristen Ashley’s Embracing the Change, an engrossing and emotional new romance, beautifully explores the complexities of a second chance at love. The novel follows Jamie Oakley, a powerful billionaire business mogul, who’s had two great marriages end in tragedy, and Nora Ellington, a NY socialite, living her best divorcee life. They’re part of the same friend group, and as the two remaining unattached people in that group, their friendship has essentially forced them into a close proximity, dating-without-benefits scenario that reignites their long-buried feelings.

Ashley’s natural storytelling is effervescent, with a dramatic storyline and engaging prose. She peels back the layers of Jamie and Nora’s deep friendship and brings their electric chemistry to life with naturally witty banter and a slowly-burning romance that kept me hooked from cover-to-cover.

A tender yet intense journey from friends-to-lovers, Embracing the Change was thick with steamy tension and heart-tugging emotion that made this a completely addictive, deeply satisfying read. Five smooches from me for Embracing the Change by Kristen Ashley!

~Danielle Palumbo

 


BUY IT NOW!

Amazon US  |  Amazon Worldwide  |  Amazon Paperback  |  Apple Books  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Nook  |  B&N Paperback  |  Audiobook  |  Audible

 

BLOG REVIEW TOUR WITH EXCERPT: The Rocker’s Muse by Penelope Ward

THE ROCKER’S MUSE, a brand new slow-burn, forbidden, age-gap rock star romance from New York Times Bestselling Author, Penelope Ward, is out now!

Scroll down for an excerpt!

 

 

Tristan and I had a connection. But I had a secret…

 

 

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…

No one but me knew why I was actually in the California desert that day.

Nestled deep within the desolate, rocky area was a recording studio.

When a door suddenly opened, a man mistook me for someone he was supposed to be interviewing for a job.

The next thing I knew, I was whisked inside.

The position? An assistant on the upcoming tour for one of America’s most famous rock bands.

Pretty exciting opportunity for a twenty-two-year-old, just out of college.

Not surprisingly, I bombed the interview.

When I ended up mistakenly walking into the men’s room on my way out, I struck up a conversation with a stranger—not realizing it was the lead singer, Tristan Daltrey.

He seemed to like the fact that I had no idea who he was, that I saw him as a normal person.

That night, I got a call offering me the job.

So began my complicated story with Tristan.

Millions of women loved him.

Yet for some reason, after the shows, he only wanted to hang out with me.

Late-night talks. Casual dinners in his hotel room.

I wasn’t supposed to be fraternizing with the band’s frontman.

Despite our fifteen-year age difference, Tristan and I had a connection.

But I had a secret.

One that would eventually lead to my leaving the tour.

And one that would lead Tristan and the band straight to the small town where I came from.

 

 

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

Amazon US  |  Amazon AU  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon UK  |  Apple Books  |  B&N  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Special Edition Paperback  |  Audio

 

Add to Goodreads

 

 

“…an addictive forbidden romance all wrapped up in a rock’n’roll package.” ~Danielle, Red Cheeks Reads

 

Check out Danielle’s 5 SMOOCHES review!

 

 

EXCERPT:

 

I stayed close to the door as Tristan sifted through some stuff. There were a bunch of papers with handwritten words scattered on his bed.

A leather jacket lay over a chair. He’d lit a candle on the bedside table—smelled like vanilla. This scene was a little different than I might’ve imagined in here. Much more Zen.

He zipped open a bag. “I guess you didn’t realize wrangling drunk assholes was part of your job?”

“Thankfully, it’s not, usually.”

“I kind of feel guilty now,” he said.

“Why?”

“Because you wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for me.”

“What do you mean? The condoms weren’t for you…”

He froze for a moment. “Condoms?”

“That’s why I was over here. To drop off condoms for Atticus.”

“What a jackass.” He rolled his eyes. “Anyway, what I meant was, you were nervous about taking this job to begin with. I told you nothing bad happens on tour. And then you ran into that situation tonight. I was the one who told Doug to hire you.”

I nodded as understanding dawned. “Thank you for putting in a good word, by the way. I wasn’t sure you remembered me. We haven’t spoken since the tour started.”

“Don’t take it personally. Tour’s just been crazy. I’ve been meaning to say hello. Just under different circumstances.”

I nodded. “Why did you tell them to hire me? You don’t even know me.”

“I liked that you didn’t know who I was. That was the first time in a long time someone’s looked me in the eyes and seen a normal person, not some musician they’ve made a million incorrect assumptions about.”

“I saw more than your eyes in that bathroom, unfortunately.”

“Yeah.” He chuckled. “Sorry about that.”

“Don’t be. I’m just kidding. I was the idiot who walked into the men’s room. Served me right.” My eyes traced the ink at the base of his neck, just peeking out from his white T-shirt. “Anyway, I probably would’ve recognized you from the Internet if you hadn’t had that long beard.”

“That’s exactly why I had the beard. I grow one every recording season when we don’t have to perform. It helps me not be recognized in public. I hated having to cut it before the tour.”

“Makes sense.”

Tristan opened another drawer and finally pulled out the ibuprofen.

“Ah! Got it.” He handed me two pills and a bottle of water.

“Thanks.” I cracked open the bottle and took a sip before downing the meds. “I’m surprised you’re alone tonight.”

“Why is that?”

“I’ve heard you guys have a different girl every night on hotel stops.”

“Wow.” He scratched his chin. “A different girl every night. I think my dick would fall off. Where are you getting your information?”

“I don’t disclose my sources.”

He shrugged. “Some nights I just want to be alone. I do have to write music at some point, rest my voice, get sleep.”

I nodded. Now the papers scattered over his bed made sense. “You write a lot on the road?”

“I write whenever inspiration strikes, but being on the road is actually when I’m most creative. Late at night on the bus, when everything goes quiet? That’s what I like best about touring. That’s my favorite time to write.”

“That’s my favorite time of the day lately, too. There’s something so relaxing about staring out at the moving darkness.”

He cocked his head. “What do you do?”

“On the bus? Read or listen to podcasts…”

“Sorry, I meant in general. What do you do when you’re not held captive by a tour for four months?”

“Not much of anything, actually. I’m trying to find my place in the world at the moment. I just graduated from Nevada State University.”

“How old are you?” he asked.

“Twenty-two.” I’d googled his age but asked anyway. “How old are you?”

“Almost thirty-eight. Old as fuck, right?”

“You don’t look thirty-eight. I would’ve guessed, like, thirty.”

“What did you study at Nevada State? Blowing smoke up people’s asses?” He winked.

I laughed. “It’s true. You look younger. But I majored in communications.”

“Nice.”

I shrugged. “Well, it’s been challenging finding a job with such a broad degree.”

“You’re in a good position,” he assured me. “I envy you.”

“Envy me?” I drew my brows in. “Why?”

“You’re a blank slate with your whole life ahead of you. Some days I wish I could go back and start over.”

“Why would you want to do that? You’re a huge star. If you did even one thing differently, you might not be where you are today.”

“Where I am today isn’t all it’s chalked up to be.” He sighed. “Don’t get me wrong—I’m very grateful for it all. But there’s always a price to pay for fame. Like giving up your privacy.”

“Yeah. I’m seeing that. You guys can’t go anywhere without being mobbed.”

“You clearly don’t give a shit who I am, though. I need that sometimes.”

He smiled. “Your innocence is refreshing, Emily.”

Innocence? “I may be young. But I’m not innocent.” I scoffed.

“I don’t believe you. I can see it in your eyes. You’re innocent as hell.”

“You’re not a good reader of people, then.”

Tristan crossed his arms. “Tell me the worst thing you’ve done, and I’ll believe you.”

No one had ever asked me such a direct question before. And something about looking into this man’s eyes made me want to answer honestly.

So I did.

Copyright © 2024 by Penelope Ward

 

 


About Penelope Ward:

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over thirty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.

Find Penelope here:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Reader Group  | Twitter  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Goodreads  |  BookBub  |  Amazon

Stay up-to-date with Penelope by signing up for her mailing list!

 

COVER REVEAL: The Romance Line by Lauren Blakely

THE ROMANCE LINE, a sexy new workplace, enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine, forbidden hockey romance from #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Lauren Blakely, releases October 2nd! Check out this cover!

 

 

Title:  THE ROMANCE LINE
Series:  LOVE AND HOCKEY (#2)
Author:  LAUREN BLAKELY
Genre:  CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Cover Design:  QAMBER DESIGN MEDIA
Release Date:  OCTOBER 2, 2024

 

 

The first rule of handling PR for a hockey team? Never hook up with a player.

That shouldn’t be a problem since the last man on earth I want to give an image makeover to is our goalie. He’s infuriatingly hot, famously grumpy and lives to spar with me after every game.

But shining up his rough edges is my path to landing the promotion I desperately need, so I grit my teeth and do my job. No matter how hard he makes it (especially with that sexy smirk and cool blue eyes.) As we travel from pose-with-a-pet photo opps to cuddle-a-kitten fundraisers, we bicker like it’s foreplay.

Turns out it is.

Because as I get to know the man behind the broody iceman exterior, it’s me that melts – right into his arms as he devastates me with a kiss that turns into the hottest, most forbidden night of my life.

Only once turns into every night as Max shows me how much he wants to take care of me. His possessive touch makes me feel adored for the first time in my life.

But the man is entirely off limits and I can’t risk my job for more of those soul-deep kisses.

Because the only thing worse than hooking up with a player is falling head over heels for him.

 

 

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!

 

Add to Goodreads

 

 

 


About Lauren Blakely:

A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s cute but spicy. Lauren likes dogs, cake, and show tunes and is the vegetarian at your dinner party.

Connect with Lauren:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Twitter  |  Amazon  |  BookBub  |  Goodreads

Sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date with Lauren!

 

REVIEW: The Rocker’s Muse by Penelope Ward

5 SMOOCHES!

* * * * * * * * * *

SYNOPSIS:

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…

No one but me knew why I was actually in the California desert that day.

Nestled deep within the desolate, rocky area was a recording studio.

When a door suddenly opened, a man mistook me for someone he was supposed to be interviewing for a job.

The next thing I knew, I was whisked inside.

The position? An assistant on the upcoming tour for one of America’s most famous rock bands.

Pretty exciting opportunity for a twenty-two-year-old, just out of college.

Not surprisingly, I bombed the interview.

When I ended up mistakenly walking into the men’s room on my way out, I struck up a conversation with a stranger—not realizing it was the lead singer, Tristan Daltrey.

He seemed to like the fact that I had no idea who he was, that I saw him as a normal person.

That night, I got a call offering me the job.

So began my complicated story with Tristan.

Millions of women loved him.

Yet for some reason, after the shows, he only wanted to hang out with me.

Late-night talks. Casual dinners in his hotel room.

I wasn’t supposed to be fraternizing with the band’s frontman.

Despite our fifteen-year age difference, Tristan and I had a connection.

But I had a secret.

One that would eventually lead to my leaving the tour.

And one that would lead Tristan and the band straight to the small town where I came from.

* * * * * * * * * *

REVIEW:

Penelope Ward’s The Rocker’s Muse is a thoroughly engaging rock star romance that beautifully perfectly captures the allure of a slow-burn, forbidden love. Set in a charming small town, the story follows Tristan, an older rock star, and Emily, his new younger assistant. The age gap and workplace dynamics add layers of tension, making their evolving relationship all the more captivating. Ward’s natural style of storytelling effortlessly brings out the electric chemistry and witty banter between Emily and Tristan, creating a deep and believable connection. The slow-burn build-up of their romance is both tantalizing and satisfying and kept me hooked from beginning to end.

Full of heart and heat, The Rocker’s Muse is an addictive forbidden romance all wrapped up in a rock’n’roll package. Five smooches from me for The Rocker’s Muse by Penelope Ward!

~Danielle Palumbo

 


BUY IT NOW!

Amazon US  |  Amazon AU  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon UK  |  Apple Books  |  B&N  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Special Edition Paperback 

 

RELEASE BLITZ: The Rocker’s Muse by Penelope Ward

THE ROCKER’S MUSE, a brand new slow-burn, forbidden, age-gap rock star romance from New York Times Bestselling Author, Penelope Ward, is out now!

 

 

Tristan and I had a connection. But I had a secret…

 

 

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…

No one but me knew why I was actually in the California desert that day.

Nestled deep within the desolate, rocky area was a recording studio.

When a door suddenly opened, a man mistook me for someone he was supposed to be interviewing for a job.

The next thing I knew, I was whisked inside.

The position? An assistant on the upcoming tour for one of America’s most famous rock bands.

Pretty exciting opportunity for a twenty-two-year-old, just out of college.

Not surprisingly, I bombed the interview.

When I ended up mistakenly walking into the men’s room on my way out, I struck up a conversation with a stranger—not realizing it was the lead singer, Tristan Daltrey.

He seemed to like the fact that I had no idea who he was, that I saw him as a normal person.

That night, I got a call offering me the job.

So began my complicated story with Tristan.

Millions of women loved him.

Yet for some reason, after the shows, he only wanted to hang out with me.

Late-night talks. Casual dinners in his hotel room.

I wasn’t supposed to be fraternizing with the band’s frontman.

Despite our fifteen-year age difference, Tristan and I had a connection.

But I had a secret.

One that would eventually lead to my leaving the tour.

And one that would lead Tristan and the band straight to the small town where I came from.

 

 

ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

Amazon US  |  Amazon AU  |  Amazon CA  |  Amazon UK  |  Apple Books  |  B&N  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Special Edition Paperback 

 

Add to Goodreads

 

 

 


About Penelope Ward:

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over thirty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.

Find Penelope here:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Reader Group  | Twitter  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Goodreads  |  BookBub  |  Amazon

Stay up-to-date with Penelope by signing up for her mailing list!

 

EXCERPT REVEAL: The Rocker’s Muse by Penelope Ward

THE ROCKER’S MUSE, a brand new slow-burn, forbidden, age gap rocker romance from New York Times Bestselling Author, Penelope Ward, releases August 26th!

Scroll down for an excerpt!

 

 

Tristan and I had a connection. But I had a secret…

 

 

From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward comes a new, STANDALONE novel…

No one but me knew why I was actually in the California desert that day.

Nestled deep within the desolate, rocky area was a recording studio.

When a door suddenly opened, a man mistook me for someone he was supposed to be interviewing for a job.

The next thing I knew, I was whisked inside.

The position? An assistant on the upcoming tour for one of America’s most famous rock bands.

Pretty exciting opportunity for a twenty-two-year-old, just out of college.

Not surprisingly, I bombed the interview.

When I ended up mistakenly walking into the men’s room on my way out, I struck up a conversation with a stranger—not realizing it was the lead singer, Tristan Daltrey.

He seemed to like the fact that I had no idea who he was, that I saw him as a normal person.

That night, I got a call offering me the job.

So began my complicated story with Tristan.

Millions of women loved him.

Yet for some reason, after the shows, he only wanted to hang out with me.

Late-night talks. Casual dinners in his hotel room.

I wasn’t supposed to be fraternizing with the band’s frontman.

Despite our fifteen-year age difference, Tristan and I had a connection.

But I had a secret.

One that would eventually lead to my leaving the tour.

And one that would lead Tristan and the band straight to the small town where I came from.

 

 

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

Apple Books  |  B&N  |  Google Play  |  Kobo  |  Special Edition Paperback  |  Sign up for an email live release alert

 

Add to Goodreads

 

 

EXCERPT:

 

I stayed close to the door as Tristan sifted through some stuff. There were a bunch of papers with handwritten words scattered on his bed.

A leather jacket lay over a chair. He’d lit a candle on the bedside table—smelled like vanilla. This scene was a little different than I might’ve imagined in here. Much more Zen.

He zipped open a bag. “I guess you didn’t realize wrangling drunk assholes was part of your job?”

“Thankfully, it’s not, usually.”

“I kind of feel guilty now,” he said.

“Why?”

“Because you wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for me.”

“What do you mean? The condoms weren’t for you…”

He froze for a moment. “Condoms?”

“That’s why I was over here. To drop off condoms for Atticus.”

“What a jackass.” He rolled his eyes. “Anyway, what I meant was, you were nervous about taking this job to begin with. I told you nothing bad happens on tour. And then you ran into that situation tonight. I was the one who told Doug to hire you.”

I nodded as understanding dawned. “Thank you for putting in a good word, by the way. I wasn’t sure you remembered me. We haven’t spoken since the tour started.”

“Don’t take it personally. Tour’s just been crazy. I’ve been meaning to say hello. Just under different circumstances.”

I nodded. “Why did you tell them to hire me? You don’t even know me.”

“I liked that you didn’t know who I was. That was the first time in a long time someone’s looked me in the eyes and seen a normal person, not some musician they’ve made a million incorrect assumptions about.”

“I saw more than your eyes in that bathroom, unfortunately.”

“Yeah.” He chuckled. “Sorry about that.”

“Don’t be. I’m just kidding. I was the idiot who walked into the men’s room. Served me right.” My eyes traced the ink at the base of his neck, just peeking out from his white T-shirt. “Anyway, I probably would’ve recognized you from the Internet if you hadn’t had that long beard.”

“That’s exactly why I had the beard. I grow one every recording season when we don’t have to perform. It helps me not be recognized in public. I hated having to cut it before the tour.”

“Makes sense.”

Tristan opened another drawer and finally pulled out the ibuprofen.

“Ah! Got it.” He handed me two pills and a bottle of water.

“Thanks.” I cracked open the bottle and took a sip before downing the meds. “I’m surprised you’re alone tonight.”

“Why is that?”

“I’ve heard you guys have a different girl every night on hotel stops.”

“Wow.” He scratched his chin. “A different girl every night. I think my dick would fall off. Where are you getting your information?”

“I don’t disclose my sources.”

He shrugged. “Some nights I just want to be alone. I do have to write music at some point, rest my voice, get sleep.”

I nodded. Now the papers scattered over his bed made sense. “You write a lot on the road?”

“I write whenever inspiration strikes, but being on the road is actually when I’m most creative. Late at night on the bus, when everything goes quiet? That’s what I like best about touring. That’s my favorite time to write.”

“That’s my favorite time of the day lately, too. There’s something so relaxing about staring out at the moving darkness.”

He cocked his head. “What do you do?”

“On the bus? Read or listen to podcasts…”

“Sorry, I meant in general. What do you do when you’re not held captive by a tour for four months?”

“Not much of anything, actually. I’m trying to find my place in the world at the moment. I just graduated from Nevada State University.”

“How old are you?” he asked.

“Twenty-two.” I’d googled his age but asked anyway. “How old are you?”

“Almost thirty-eight. Old as fuck, right?”

“You don’t look thirty-eight. I would’ve guessed, like, thirty.”

“What did you study at Nevada State? Blowing smoke up people’s asses?” He winked.

I laughed. “It’s true. You look younger. But I majored in communications.”

“Nice.”

I shrugged. “Well, it’s been challenging finding a job with such a broad degree.”

“You’re in a good position,” he assured me. “I envy you.”

“Envy me?” I drew my brows in. “Why?”

“You’re a blank slate with your whole life ahead of you. Some days I wish I could go back and start over.”

“Why would you want to do that? You’re a huge star. If you did even one thing differently, you might not be where you are today.”

“Where I am today isn’t all it’s chalked up to be.” He sighed. “Don’t get me wrong—I’m very grateful for it all. But there’s always a price to pay for fame. Like giving up your privacy.”

“Yeah. I’m seeing that. You guys can’t go anywhere without being mobbed.”

“You clearly don’t give a shit who I am, though. I need that sometimes.”

He smiled. “Your innocence is refreshing, Emily.”

Innocence? “I may be young. But I’m not innocent.” I scoffed.

“I don’t believe you. I can see it in your eyes. You’re innocent as hell.”

“You’re not a good reader of people, then.”

Tristan crossed his arms. “Tell me the worst thing you’ve done, and I’ll believe you.”

No one had ever asked me such a direct question before. And something about looking into this man’s eyes made me want to answer honestly.

So I did.

Copyright © 2024 by Penelope Ward

 

 


About Penelope Ward:

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance.

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism.

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over thirty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.

Find Penelope here:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Reader Group  | Twitter  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Goodreads  |  BookBub  |  Amazon

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COVER REVEAL: Jilted by Vi Keeland

JILTED, an all-new wedding meet cute contemporary romance from #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Vi Keeland, is coming May 6, 2025! Check out this cover!

 

 

Title:  JILTED
Author:  VI KEELAND 
Publisher:  BRAMBLE/MACMILLAN
Genre:  STANDALONE CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE
Tropes:  WEDDING MEET CUTE/PRO ATHLETE HERO/HE FALLS FIRST/COCKY HERO
Cover Design:  SARAH KELLOGG
Release Date:  MAY 6, 2025

 

 

Weddings. I spend every working minute talking and writing about them, when just the thought of one makes me want to scream. After my fiancé abandoned me at the altar last year, my dream job at Bride magazine has turned into a reoccurring nightmare.

To add insult to injury, the bridezilla at my latest assignment, somehow roped me into filling in for a missing bridesmaid. Of course, I had to get paired with the most gorgeous groomsman. Wilder Hayes is perfect—except when he opens his mouth and we end up bickering all evening. That is, until the coat closet incident.

At least I’ll never have to see him again.  Or so I think… Until I walk into work on Monday and find out Wilder isn’t just a jerk, he’s also my boss’s son.  And I’ll be spending the rest of the season working with him at every single wedding I cover this year.

Can the jilted bride and the man who is afraid of love find a way to heal each other?

 

 

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!

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Please note: Jilted will be available in Kindle Unlimited

 

SPRAYED-EDGE PAPERBACK PRE-ORDERS:

Amazon US  |  Amazon CA  |  Target  |  B&N

Please note: All US/CA paperback pre-orders will have gorgeous sprayed edges!

 

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About Vi Keeland:

Vi Keeland is a #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author. With millions of books sold, her titles are currently translated in twenty-seven languages and have appeared on bestseller lists in the US, Germany, Brazil, Bulgaria, Israel, and Hungary. Three of her short stories have been turned into films by Passionflix, and two of her books are currently optioned for movies. She resides in New York with her husband and their three children where she is living out her own happily ever after with the boy she met at age six.

Find Vi here:

Website | Facebook | Reader Group Instagram | TikTok | Twitter | Amazon | BookBub Goodreads

Sign up for Vi’s mailing list now and be the first to be updated on news and new releases!

 

RELEASE BLITZ WITH EXCERPT: The Boyfriend Goal by Lauren Blakely

THE BOYFRIEND GOAL, an all-new  teammate’s little sister, roommates-to-lovers, forbidden hockey romance from #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Lauren Blakely, is out now!

Scroll down for an excerpt!

 

 

A forbidden romance with my brother’s hockey teammate wasn’t on my to-do list when I moved across the country…

 

 

A forbidden romance with my brother’s hockey teammate wasn’t on my to-do list when I moved across the country…

Neither was getting locked out of a friend’s place wearing next to nothing.

Or spending the night with the sexy stranger who rescues me.

But I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone so getting out of the rest of my clothes with him seems like a good way to start.

In the morning, I learn the filthy-mouthed man with the talented hands is not only the hotshot new hockey player on my brother’s team: he’s also – wait for it – my brand new roommate.

I’m a good student turned good librarian. A rule-follower. I’m not the kind of girl who does complicated flings. So we agree to another rule: friends-only.

It’s not easy though. Wes is bossy, flirty and generous.

He gives me rides to work.

Pitches in at my library’s fundraiser.

Takes care of me when I get hurt.

And looks at me like I’m the only one.

Soon, I’m falling hard for my brother’s teammate.

Especially when Wes comes to my door and tells me exactly how he’d like to break our rules.

Every single one.

 

 

ORDER YOUR COPY NOW!

Kindle  |  Audible  |  Paperback

Narrated in duet by Connor Crais & Erin Mallon

 

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“…electric chemistry, witty banter, and a steamy romance…” ~Danielle, Red Cheeks Reads

 

Check out Danielle’s 5 SMOOCHES review!

 

 

EXCERPT:

 

Josie: Nice turnaround.

I smile stupidly against the dark window, so no one can see how I look right now. The glass is cool, but I’m warm everywhere. I don’t want to talk about me with Josie. Not with my teammates around. And honestly, not that much in general. I want to talk about her.  

Wesley: It was. But what are you up to? Also, it’s late. Go to bed.

Josie: That’s where I am.

Josie: Here’s your proof of bed.

She sends a picture of the lower half of the bed. Her legs are clearly under the covers. A paperback sits on the white cover. Zooming in, I read the title. Someone Else’s Ring.

Wesley: New book. Does this mean you finished the thriller? The Woman In The Hotel?

Josie: I did and the thrill was thrilling.

Wesley: How’s this one?

Josie: It reads like you f*&k.

Forget warm. I’m red hot under the collar of my dress shirt, remembering the words she wrote on hotel stationery more than a month ago. He f*&ked like a page turner that you didn’t want to put down. 

Is it just me or is Josie getting…naughtier? Bolder? More brazen? Pretty sure it’s not just me – it’s her, turning up the heat. 

I’m feeling the burn in the dark of the quiet jet, streaking across the sky. Here, it’s like no man’s land, free of consequences, devoid of risks. A place where we can flirt because of the miles between us. So I tap out a reply

Wesley: Bet I still “read” like that.

Josie: You’d keep me up all night?

Wesley: Like a page turner, Josie. Like a f*&king page turner.

 

 

 


About Lauren Blakely:

A #1 New York Times Bestselling, #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling, and #1 Audible Bestselling author, Lauren Blakely is known for her contemporary romance style that’s cute but spicy. Lauren likes dogs, cake, and show tunes and is the vegetarian at your dinner party.

Connect with Lauren:

Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  TikTok  |  Twitter  |  Amazon  |  BookBub  |  Goodreads

Sign up for her newsletter to stay up to date with Lauren!

 

REVIEW: The Boyfriend Goal by Lauren Blakely

5 SMOOCHES!

* * * * * * * * * *

SYNOPSIS:

A forbidden romance with my brother’s hockey teammate wasn’t on my to-do list when I moved across the country…

Neither was getting locked out of a friend’s place wearing next to nothing.

Or spending the night with the sexy stranger who rescues me.

But I’m trying to get out of my comfort zone so getting out of the rest of my clothes with him seems like a good way to start.

In the morning, I learn the filthy-mouthed man with the talented hands is not only the hotshot new hockey player on my brother’s team: he’s also – wait for it – my brand new roommate.

I’m a good student turned good librarian. A rule-follower. I’m not the kind of girl who does complicated flings. So we agree to another rule: friends-only.

It’s not easy though. Wes is bossy, flirty and generous.

He gives me rides to work.

Pitches in at my library’s fundraiser.

Takes care of me when I get hurt.

And looks at me like I’m the only one.

Soon, I’m falling hard for my brother’s teammate.

Especially when Wes comes to my door and tells me exactly how he’d like to break our rules.

Every single one.

* * * * * * * * * *

REVIEW:

Lauren Blakely’s The Boyfriend Goal is a light-hearted and fun roommates-to-lovers hockey romance that perfectly balances forbidden desire with heartfelt emotion. The story kicks off with a sizzling one-night stand between Wes, a professional hockey player, and Josie, a charming librarian who just so happens to be his teammate’s little sister. I listened to the audiobook, narrated in duet by Connor Crais and Erin Mallon. Both of them delivered fantastic performances, full of natural, authentic chemistry that translated perfectly to the characters.

Despite knowing he shouldn’t, Wes can’t stop thinking about Josie, and when she winds up moving in with him as a favor to her brother, their forced proximity intensifies their undeniable connection. Blakely’s natural storytelling shines as she weaves together electric chemistry, witty banter, and a steamy romance that deepens through their sweet love letters and genuine connection. A captivating blend of passion, humor and emotion, The Boyfriend Goal is a not-to-be-missed must-read for hockey romance fans. Five smooches from me for The Boyfriend Goal by Lauren Blakely!

~Danielle Palumbo

 


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