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LIFE

Reading this weekend? Check out some hot new romance releases

Joyce Lamb
Special for USA TODAY
"Never Surrender" by Lindsay McKenna.

Don't know about you, but this weekend couldn't come fast enough! So I'm REALLY looking forward to settling down with some new romances this weekend. Here are some highlights from the week …

Never Surrender by Lindsay McKenna. Despite her sweet nature, Navy medic Bay Thorn's will is unbreakable. It has earned her not only the respect of her team, but also the love of Navy SEAL Gabe Griffin. And as soon as she wraps up the final six months of Operation Shadow Warriors in Afghanistan, she'll have her happily ever after…. Until her deployment goes horribly wrong. Bay's medical expertise is needed by the Taliban, and she is taken hostage. Her captor is ruthless and cruel, and Bay isn't exempt from his evil intents. All that's left now is her resolve and the too-distant memory of Gabe—her last and only hope for rescue. And to pull Bay from hell, this SEAL will have to break every rule in the book.

Kiss and Tell by Fern Michaels. USA TODAY & No. 1 New York Times bestselling author Fern Michaels—one of the most acclaimed authors of our time—will dazzle her devote legion of fans with this brand-new adventure where The Sisterhood and the Godmothers face a threat so great that for the first time they must join forces to make sure that justice is served!

A Change in Altitude by Cindy Myers. In the third book set in Eureka, Colorado, acclaimed author Cindy Myers combines small-town charm with a poignant storyline perfect for fans of warmhearted fiction by Kristin Hannah and Robyn Carr.

I'll Find You by Nancy Bush. New York Times bestselling author Nancy Bush will keep readers on the edge of their seats with a new page-turning tale of romantic suspense that rivals the best of Lisa Jackson and Beverly Barton.

Rich Girl Problems by Tu-Shonda L. Walker. From award-winning and Essence® bestselling author Tu-Shonda L. Whitaker comes a smart and sexy tale about a group of women and their scandalous escapades—sure to appeal to fans of Kiki Swinson and Niobia Bryant.

Awkwardly Ever After by Marni Bates. Ready to break out with her upcoming made-for-TV Disney movie, Marni Bates continues the over-the-top adventure begun in Awkward in this new installment of her witty, smart YA series.

Deeply in You by Sharon Page. In the first in her new Wicked Duke series, Aphrodisia favorite Sharon Page combines the perennially popular Regency setting with her trademark scorching sensuality.

An Inconvenient Love by Alexia Adams. Neither wanted love in their marriage. But you don't always get what you want. Sophia Stevens is tired of struggling to pay the rent and help her brother through college. After seven years on her own, she is no farther ahead than the day she walked out on her old life and started again. So when super-sexy Italian property developer Luca Castellioni proposes a marriage of convenience, she's intrigued.

Final Mend by Angela Smith. A recovering alcoholic, Jake Inman has found a new, healthier addiction: training for his successful triathlon career. But when his manager is murdered and beloved goddaughter kidnapped, another obsession takes hold: doing whatever it takes to find Brandon's killer and keep Amy safe.

"Vixen in Velvet" by Loretta Chase.

Vixen in Velvet by Loretta Chase. From the Diary of Leonie Noirot: The perfect corset should invite its undoing ... Lethally charming Simon Blair, Marquess of Lisburne, has reluctantly returned to London for one reason only: a family obligation. Still, he might make time for the seduction of a certain redheaded dressmaker—but Leonie Noirot hasn't time for him. She's obsessed with transforming his cousin, the dowdy Lady Gladys, into a swan. Leonie's skills can coax curves—and profits—from thin air, but his criminally handsome lordship is too busy trying to seduce her to appreciate her genius. He badly needs to learn a lesson, and the wager she provokes ought to teach him, once and for all. A great plan, in theory—but Lisburne's become a serious distraction and Leonie's usual logic is in danger of slipping away as easily as a silk chemise. Could the Season's greatest transformation be her own?

Darkness Bound by J.T. Geissinger. Continuing Series, book 5. Tough, smart, and seriously ambitious, reporter Jacqueline "Jack" Dolan despises the secretive clan of shape-shifters known as the Ikati—and has become determined to destroy them. After she writes an editorial arguing for their extermination and turns public opinion against them, the Ikati vow to fight back. They plot to send one of their own to seduce the reporter, then blackmail her into writing a retraction. Women practically fall at the feet of hulking, handsome Hawk Luna, and Hawk relishes the idea of conquering and destroying the fiery redhead who's caused so much trouble for his kind. The last thing he expects is to develop real feelings for her, but their liaison awakens a hunger in him that he cannot deny. He kidnaps Jack and brings her to his Amazon jungle colony, but the two lovers are soon embroiled in deadly colony politics and threatened by a looming global species war. As the danger around them grows closer, Jack and Hawk's forbidden passion may build a bridge between two ancient enemies—or cost them both their lives.

Love's a Witch by Roxy Mews. Hart Clan Hybrids, Book 2. Since a very real set of vampire fangs sank into her arm, Mary Fields has accepted that she's part of a magical world where all her dreams and visions finally make sense. As she journeys to find a Wiccan mentor who'll help her get a handle on her new powers, she clings to the one relic from her former life—a sketchpad. She also tries to ignore the red mating aura she's beginning to see around her only companion on the trip—the hottie she used to read to at the library. Mary's readings were once a fun distraction from the cruel joke the supernatural world played on Craig Hart. He's supposed to protect her from vampires out to make her their personal blood supply, yet he can't bring himself to keep his paws off. As Mary digs deep for the inner strength to protect herself, one stumble off her magical path sends her straight into Craig's arms. Where love burns…but so does a truth that could turn that red mating aura into a river of blood.

If You Want Me by Cassi Carver. The Ashford Legacy, Book 2. Sara Castillo has sworn never to get sucked into the world of the rich and famous, not after billionaire Benjamin Swayne broke her heart and left her carrying the burden of their shared secret. Now Sara has a successful career working with her dear friend, Kyle Ashford, and her life runs like a well-oiled machine—until Kyle chooses Ben as his best man. No way will Sara let the renowned bad boy turn Kyle's bachelor party into a front-page fiasco. She's going to plan the party herself…even if she has to blackmail Ben into agreeing. Ben isn't thrilled about working with a woman who'd like to shank him and dump his body in a roadside ditch. But he's willing to let Sara meddle, if only to teach her a lesson. And if the sight and scent of his old flame still makes his head swim…well, tough. After Kyle's party is wrapped up, Ben may finally be able to put Sara in the past. That is, if their time together doesn't convince them they have a future.

Bare Naked by Desiree Holt. Naked Cowboys, Book 4. Georgie Zielinski's success in the hospitality industry comes to an abrupt end when her new boss says she needs to put out or get out. So Georgie gets out, investing her savings and 401k in a dilapidated B&B in Saddle Wells, Texas. Hiring help isn't high on her to-do list, but when a rough-around-the-edges cowboy offers his handyman services, she listens to her gut and takes him on. Cade Hannigan would eat humble pie all day if he could afford it. The silver spoon he was born with is tarnished and he's down to the clothes on his back, a beat-up truck and a reputation so bad no one in three counties will hire him. Except a newcomer like Georgie. As they work to bring the old B&B back to life, Georgie and Cade's connection explodes into a wild ride of passion. But when Cade's past comes back to slap him in the face, their chance to be together starts to disappear like smoke.

Blood on the Ice by Katriena Knights. A right wing for the Chicago Blackhawks, all Travis Payne wants is to see his name on the Stanley Cup. He certainly doesn't expect to be attacked by a vampire on the eve of the Finals. But when he wakes up in the Warm Room of the Cook County Morgue, he knows his life will never be the same. Fortunately, Travis can still play hockey with the Chicago Cobras, the local vampire league franchise. Cobras captain Marcus Antonius, a former Roman gladiator, is more than willing to help Travis adjust to his new life, his new team, and the erosion of his formerly flaming heterosexuality. Travis is a difficult student, though—all he wants is his life to return to normal. Unfortunately, learning to be a good vampire is even more complicated than following concussion protocols, and Travis will have to let go of everything to find a new normal.

Beautiful Distraction by Jess Michaels. The Pleasure Wars, Book 4. It has been a particularly trying day for Olivia Cranfield. Despite her impeccable manners, stylish clothing and posh accent, another protector has detected her lowborn status and rejected her out of hand. When fellow courtesan Violet invites her to come to Bath to help with the wicked seduction of the scarred, reclusive Earl of Windbury, Olivia jumps at the offer, eager for some excitement and a change of scenery. The moment Malcolm Graham lays eyes on the delectable woman lurking in the bathhouse alley, he knows she's a decoy to keep him busy while her friend seduces the earl inside. For a moment, he allows her to play her game…but one touch, and all he can think about is ending the two years of self-denial he's endured in the name of friendship. Instant attraction quickly turns into a decidedly erotic affair that makes Olivia question all she's ever known about passion. But when the truth behind Violet's assignment comes to light, betrayal threatens to bring everything they've built crashing down around Olivia's broken heart.

Up to Me by Christi Barth. Book one in Shore Secrets series. Ella Mayhew's always appreciated the beautiful view of Seneca Lake from the spa window of her family's hotel. But the view improves dramatically when a hot stranger runs across the grounds—shirtless. He's the first man to kickstart her hormones in the three years since she lost her parents, and she doesn't even know his name. Graydon Locke's on his umpteenth undercover assignment. The routine's always the same: assess a business, recommend it for closure, then roll out before anyone discovers his decisions impact hundreds of lives. He's always believed nothing good comes out of small towns. Why would this one be different? Then he makes two classic rookie mistakes—falling for the sweet, sexy girl who owns the very business he's on the verge of axing. And letting the town's residents get involved in both his life, and his relationship with Ella.

"Lady Windermere's Lover" by Miranda Neville.

Lady Windermere's Lover by Miranda Neville. Damian, Earl of Windermere, rues the day he drunkenly gambled away his family's estate and was forced into marriage to reclaim it. Now, after hiding out from his new bride for a year, Damian is finally called home, only to discover that his modest bride has become an alluring beauty—and rumor has it that she's taken a lover. Damian vows to keep his wife from straying again, but to do so he must seduce her—and protect his heart from falling for the wife he never knew he wanted. Lady Cynthia never aspired to be the subject of scandal. But with her husband off gallivanting across Persia, what was a lady to do? Flirting shamelessly with his former best friend seemed like the perfect revenge . . . except no matter how little Damian deserves her loyalty, Cynthia can't bring herself to be unfaithful. But now that the scoundrel has returned home, Cynthia isn't about to forgive his absence so easily—even if his presence stirs something in her she'd long thought dead and buried. He might win her heart ... if he can earn her forgiveness!

Passionate Kisses: 10 Sizzling Contemporary Romances by Magda Alexander, Wendy Ely, Jessi Gage, Victoria Barbour, Rebecca J. Clark, Liz Kelly, Nikki Lynn Barrett, Sydney Holmes, Allie Boniface, Kylie Gilmore. Escape to a world filled with passionate kisses. Brazen billionaires. Hot cops. Small town hotties. Hunky Scotsmen. Big city playboys. All are ready to put everything on the line for the women who stir their hearts. Passionate Kisses: Ten full-length sizzling contemporary romance novels by some of today's hottest authors that will sweep you away and leave you yearning for your very own knee-buckling, heart-melting kiss.

Five Ways to Fall by K.A. Tucker. Discover Ben's side of the story in this fourth novel by the beloved, top-selling indie author of Ten Tiny Breaths, One Tiny Lie, and Four Seconds to Lose. Purple-haired, sharp-tongued Reese MacKay knows all about making the wrong choice; she's made plenty of them in her twenty-odd-years. So when her impulsive, short-lived marriage ends in heartbreak, she decides it's time for a change. She moves to Miami with the intention of hitting reset on her irresponsible life, and she does quite well…aside from an epically humiliating one-night stand in Cancun with a hot blond bouncer named Ben. Thank God she can get on a plane and leave that mistake behind her. Football scholarship and frat parties with hot chicks? Part of charmer Ben Morris's plan. Blown knee that kills any hope of a professional football career? So not part of the plan. Luckily Ben has brains to go with his knockout looks and magnetism. After three long years of balancing law school with his job as a bouncer at Penny's Palace, he's ready to lead a more mature life—until his first day of work, when he finds himself in the office of that crazy, hot chick he met in Cancun. The one he hasn't stopped thinking about. If Ben truly were a smart guy, he'd stay clear of Reese. She's the boss's stepdaughter and it's been made very clear that office romances are grounds for dismissal. Plus, rumor has it she's trouble. The only problem is, he likes trouble, especially when it's so good-looking…

Queen of Wands by Katee Robert. When Jenny O'Keirna gets a chance to slip her older brother, the new king of Hansarda's, leash, she jumps at it, even if it means playing babysitter to a too-smart-for-his-own-good inventor. She's not expecting the attraction that sparks between them—or that Sanctify is just as desperate to take him for their own. Never in Mac Flannery's wildest dreams did he imagine Jenny would be the one sent for him. He sees beyond the mad grin the sexy princess of Hansarda presents to the world, and that combination of vulnerability and wicked humor is a siren call he can't resist. But Sanctify is always three steps ahead of them. On the run—and unable to keep their hands off each other—Jenny and Mac devise an insane plan: kidnap the leader of Sanctify, and stop this war once and for all. Unfortunately, they've just played right into his hands…

"When Day Breaks" by Maya Banks, coming June 24.

When Day Breaks by Maya Banks. The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super-elite, top secret, family-run business. Qualifications: High intelligence, rock-hard body, military background. Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the U.S. government can't… Eden is said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her face has graced countless magazines and her body has sold millions of dollars of clothing. But her fame and beauty has earned her more than she ever imagined. Evil is stalking her, determined to extinguish the ethereal beauty forever. Swanson or "Swanny" as his teammates call him is always up for the next mission. He came back from Afghanistan wounded and scarred. Hardly the kind of man who even belongs in the same room with Eden. And yet there's something about the quiet beauty that stirs his blood and makes him dream of the impossible. Because Beauty loving the Beast only happens in fairy tales and KGI doesn't deal in fairy tales. Ever.

Better Homes and Hauntings by Molly Harper. When Nina Linden is hired to landscape a private island off the New England coast, she sees it as her chance to rebuild her failing business after being cheated by her unscrupulous ex. She never expects that her new client, software mogul Deacon Whitney, would see more in her than just a talented gardener. Deacon has paid top dollar to the crews he's hired to renovate the desolate Whitney estate—he had to, because the bumps, thumps, and unexplained sightings of ghostly figures in nineteenth-century dress are driving workers away faster than he can say "Boo." But Nina shows no signs of being scared away, even as she experiences some unnerving apparitions herself. And as the two of them work closely together to restore the mansion's faded glory, Deacon realizes that he's found someone who doesn't seem to like his fortune more than himself—while Nina may have finally found the one man she can trust with her bruised and battered heart. But something on the island doesn't believe in true love…and if Nina and Deacon can't figure out how to put these angry spirits to rest, their own love doesn't stand a ghost of a chance.

In the End by Demitria Lunetta. The thrilling conclusion to In the After, the survival story of Amy and Baby, set in a near future where Earth has been overrun by vicious, predatory creatures. It's been three months since Amy escaped New Hope, and she's been surviving on her own. Then one day Amy gets a call from Kay and hears the four words she had hoped she would never hear: Dr. Reynolds has Baby. Now it's a race against time, for Baby is in imminent danger, her life threatened by the malevolent doctor who had helped start the end of the world. Amy must make her way to Fort Black, a prison turned survivor colony, where she will need to find Ken, Kay's brother, who holds the key to Baby's survival. One small slipup on this quest might not only cost Baby and Amy their lives but could also threaten the survival of the people in the After.

Scandalize Me by Caitlin Crews. Hunter Talbot Grant III, sports figure du jour, wealthy beyond measure and disreputable by choice, has cultivated a reputation that masks the shadows of his past. When the opportunity to ensure financial destruction for Jason Treffen arises, he can't refuse. But first he must shake off the woman sent to tame him! Zoe Brook, PR agent extraordinaire, never fails to transform a tarnished star. And Hunter's no different. Except there's a catch. Beneath their scorching mutual attraction, Zoe has a secret—she's also been on the wrong side of Jason Treffen, and she has as much of a taste for revenge as Hunter does!

Abandon the Dark by Marta Perry. Twenty years ago, Lainey Colton spent one perfect summer in Deer Run with her beloved great-aunt Rebecca. Since then, the beautiful graphic designer has been a gypsy, calling no place home. Now Rebecca is gravely ill, so Lainey has returned to Deer Run to care for her…and to escape her mistakes. Lawyer Jake Evans gave up a high-powered job to build a quieter life in the small Pennsylvania town. So when a beautiful stranger appears after twenty years gone, he naturally questions her motives. Still, he is drawn to Lainey. But no amount of attraction will matter if he can't keep her safe from a mysterious threat.

The Promise by Robyn Carr. Scott Grant has a bustling family practice in the small Oregon community of Thunder Point. The town and its people have embraced the widowed doctor and father of two, his children are thriving, and Scott knows it's time to move on from his loss. But as the town's only doctor, the dating pool is limited. That is, until a stunning physician's assistant applies for a job at his clinic. Peyton Lacoumette considers herself entirely out of the dating scene. She's already been burned by a man with kids, and she's come to Thunder Point determined not to repeat past mistakes. When Scott offers her a job, at a much lower salary than she's used to, Peyton is surprisingly eager to accept…at least for now. She's willing to stay for a three-month trial period while she explores other options. Scott and Peyton know the arrangement is temporary—it isn't enough time to build a real relationship, never mind anything with lasting commitment. But love can blossom faster than you think.

"Last of the Red-Hot Cowboys" by Tina Leonard.

Last of the Red-Hot Cowboys by Tina Leonard. Ava Buchanan dreams of a career on the rodeo circuit. Winning a spot on a one-of-a-kind team would be her ticket to the life she's always wanted. Ava won't let anyone stand in her way—not even a stubborn cowboy whose slow-molasses smile and red-hot swagger set her senses aflame . . . and whose talents as a trainer could make her a star. Rodeo might be a man's game, but Ava knows the right woman's touch can tame the wildest heart. Trace Carter believes his mayor's plan to raise the town's profile has disaster written all over it, and he won't allow the Hell's Outlaws Training Center to be dragged into the fiasco. Yet watching Ava's delectable body on horseback proves too much of a temptation, and his fantasies stray to her riding skills outside the arena. Soon Trace is fighting like hell to rein in his unbridled desire for the petite brunette before it becomes a passion hotter than the Texas sun.

The Tea Shop on Lavender Lane by Sheila Roberts. After a fake food poisoning incident in L.A., Bailey Sterling's dreams of becoming a caterer to the stars collapse faster than a soufflé. Now Bailey's face is in all the gossip rags and her business is in ruins. But the Sterling women close ranks and bring her back to Icicle Falls, where she'll stay with her sister Cecily. All goes well between the sisters until Bailey comes up with a new business idea—a tea shop on a charming street called Lavender Lane. She's going into partnership with Todd Black, who—it turns out—is the man Cecily's started dating. It looks to Cecily as if there's more than tea brewing in that cute little shop. And she's not pleased. Wait! Isn't Cecily seeing Luke Goodman? He's a widower with an adorable little girl, and yes, Cecily does care about him. But Todd's the one who sends her zing-o-meter off the charts. So now what?

Talking After Midnight by Dakota Cassidy. Shields up, sugar—things in Plum Orchard are about to get real. Marybell Lyman is notorious for two things: Her look. The wicked hairstyle, multiple piercings and practiced sneer that say: "Stay back—I bite." Her voice. The syrupy lilt that's her bread and butter at Call Girls, the prim little town's flourishing phone-sex company. Hunky handyman Taggart Hawthorn is mesmerized by the contradiction: such sweet tones inside such a spiky shell! He wants to know more about mysterious Marybell, to hear more of her sexy talk—all for himself. But Tag's attentions, delicious as they are, have Marybell panicked. She's been hiding a long time. She's finally got a home, a job and friends she adores. She won't have it all snatched away by another stupid mistake—like falling in love. So when Marybell's past comes calling, she and the Call Girls will prove no one handles scandals like a Southern girl!

Wild Iris Ridge by Raeanne Thayne. And it's likely to tear them apart. Because it was Brendan's late wife, Jessie—and Lucy's best friend—who'd brought them together in the first place. And since Jessie's passing, Brendan's been distracted by his two little ones…and the memory of an explosive kiss with Lucy years before his marriage. Still, he'll steer clear of her. She's always been trouble with a capital T. Lucy couldn't wait to shed her small-town roots for the big city. But now that she's back in Hope's Crossing to take care of the Queen Anne home her late aunt has left her, she figures seeing Brendan Caine again is no big deal. After all, she'd managed to resist the handsome fire chief once before, but clearly the embers of their attraction are still smoldering.

Until We Touch by Susan Mallery. After a family tragedy, former football hero Jack McGarry keeps the world at arm's length—a challenge now that his PR firm has moved to neighborly Fool's Gold, California. Larissa Owens knows where she stands—Jack sees her as just another one of the guys. No matter what her heart wishes, Jack's her boss, not her boyfriend. But then Larissa's big secret is revealed…by her mother! When Jack discovers the truth about Larissa's feelings, her touch suddenly becomes tantalizing, and he's not sure he wants to resist. But if he gives in to desire, heartache is sure to follow. Friendship or true love—will Jack go for the ultimate play?

Suddenly Last Summer by Sarah Morgan. Fiery French chef Élise Philippe is having a seriously bad day. Not only have the grand opening plans for her beloved café fallen apart, but Sean O'Neil is back in town and looking more delectable than ever. Memories of the electrifying night they shared last summer leave Élise very tempted, but she knows all too well that eventually Sean will be leaving…again. Being back in Vermont—even temporarily—is surgeon Sean O'Neil's worst nightmare. Returning home to the Snow Crystal Resort means confronting the guilt he feels about rejecting his family's lifestyle years ago. But discovering that Élise is still in Vermont and still sets his blood racing is a very welcome distraction!

"Beyond the Velvet Rope" by Tiffany Ashley.

Beyond the Velvet Rope by Tiffany Ashley. Scoring a gig at Miami's Club Babylon is a fantasy come true for New York promoter Thandie Shaw. The hottest club on the strip is a magnet for major South Beach movers and shakers. And Thandie's about to meet the biggest player of them all. Babylon owner Elliot Richards is macho, arrogant, sexist—everything Thandie doesn't want in a boss or lover. Elliot is also the most erotic man who's ever wanted to take her to bed. But Thandie's no fool. Even as he tries to seduce her into a world of intense and shocking passion, she knows it's too good to last…especially after she uncovers Elliot's explosive secrets. Thandie's going down a dangerous road, and she's risking a lot more than her career.

A Sword Upon the Rose by Brenda Joyce. A bastard daughter, Alana was cast away at birth and forgotten by her mighty Comyn family. Raised in solitude by her grandmother, she has remained at a safe distance from the war raging through Scotland. But when a battle comes close to home and she finds herself compelled to save an enemy warrior from death, her own life is thrown into danger. Iain of Islay's allegiance is to the formidable Robert Bruce. His beautiful rescuer captures both his attention and his desire, but Alana must keep her identity a secret even as she is swept up into a wild and forbidden affair. But as Bruce's army begins the final destruction of the earldom, Alana must decide between the family whose acceptance she's always sought, or the man she so wrongly loves.

Little Mercies by Heather Gudenkauf. Veteran social worker Ellen Moore has seen the worst side of humanity—the vilest acts one person can commit against another. She is a fiercely dedicated children's advocate and a devoted mother and wife. But one blistering summer day, a simple moment of distraction will have repercussions that Ellen could never have imagined, threatening to shatter everything she holds dear, and trapping her between the gears of the system she works for. Meanwhile, ten-year-old Jenny Briard has been living with her well-meaning but irresponsible father since her mother left them, sleeping on friends' couches and moving in and out of cheap motels. When Jenny suddenly finds herself on her own, she is forced to survive with nothing but a few dollars and her street smarts. The last thing she wants is a social worker, but when Ellen's and Jenny's lives collide, little do they know just how much they can help one another.

No River Too Wide by Emilie Richards. Some betrayals are like rivers, so deep, so wide, they can't be crossed. But—for those with enough courage—forgiveness, redemption and love may be found on the other side. On the night her home is consumed by fire, Janine Stoddard finally resolves to leave her abusive husband. While she is reluctant to involve her estranged daughter, she can't resist a chance to see Harmony and baby Lottie in Asheville, North Carolina, before she disappears forever. Harmony's friend Taylor Martin realizes how much the reunited mother and daughter yearn to stay together, and she sees in Jan a chance to continue her own mother's legacy of helping women in need of a fresh start. She opens her home, even as she's opening her heart to another newcomer, Adam Pryor. But enigmatic Adam has a secret that could destroy Taylor's trust…and cost Jan her hard-won freedom.

Shaman Rises by C.E. Murphy. For over a year, Joanne has been fighting the Master—the world's most abiding evil entity. She's sacrificed family, friendships, even watched potential futures fade away…and now the Master is bringing the final battle to Joanne's beloved Seattle. Lives will be lost as the repercussions of all Joanne's final transformation into her full Shamanic abilities come to her doorstep. Before the end, she'll mourn, rejoice—and surrender everything for the hope of the world's survival. She'll be a warrior and a healer. Because she is finally a Shaman Rising.

"The Saint" by Tiffany Reisz.

The Saint by Tiffany Reisz. Before she became Manhattan's most famous dominatrix, Nora Sutherlin was merely a girl called Eleanor… Rebellious, green-eyed Eleanor never met a rule she didn't want to break. She's sick of her mother's zealotry and the confines of Catholic school, and declares she'll never go to church again. But her first glimpse of beautiful, magnetic Father Marcus Stearns—Søren to her and only her—and his lust-worthy Italian motorcycle is an epiphany. Eleanor is consumed—yet even she knows being in love with a priest can't be right. But when one desperate mistake nearly costs Eleanor everything, it is Søren who steps in to save her. When she vows to repay him with complete obedience, a whole world opens before her as he reveals to her his deepest secrets that will change everything.

Forbidden Lust by Jayne Kingston. Book 3 in the Lust for Life series. Seven years ago she propositioned him and he turned her down. Oscar cannot deny he's wanted Eva for as long as he can remember, but their thirteen-year age difference and family loyalty have forced him to keep her at arm's length. By any means necessary. His best friend's baby sister wasn't quite eighteen when she tempted him with the offer of a lifetime. Turning her down then was a no-brainer. Seven years later he finds himself confessing she's become every inch the woman of his most lusty fantasies. So she issues a challenge—prove it. Prove it he does. Over and over again in a night so mind-blowingly hot it leads to days and weeks of all-consuming passion. Passion completely worth the wrath he is going to have to face when her family finds out he's broken all the rules to have her.

Tryst Denied by Cynthia Sax. Book 3 of the Mating Mark series. Tawania sees aliens. She knows they're not real. To avoid being locked up in an institution, she does what any functioning insane person would do—she ignores her imaginary intergalactic visitors. Only one tall sexy alien won't be ignored. Raff's heated touch scorches Tawania's grip on reality. His kisses drive her to madness. He declares that she's his destined mate. He also insists he's real. Raff, an Orogone warrior, is very much real. This handsome warrior has been sent to Earth to round up misbehaving off-worlders and he's not accustomed to being ignored, especially not by a brown-eyed human female with the most kissable lips in fifteen galaxies. He has mere days to convince her to bond with him. Failure results in death.

Taking Eve by Tina Donahue. Dreams of a manor where submission and dominance once ruled draw Faith to hypnotherapist Colin. Potently virile, he looks remarkably like her most cherished Master from a past life. Desire smolders in his eyes, proving he's never forgotten her. Their carnal dance continues in the present and leads to their past when she was known as Eve. Through hypnotherapy Colin brings her back to the Victorian era, a hidden estate where she sometimes eagerly and sometimes reluctantly submits to whatever he and her other noble masters crave. Most will take her. One will try to imprison her. Only one will truly master her in every way.

Games Girls Play by BA Tortuga. Hands-on assassin Rose has the best job in the world and no issue at all with taking out the bad guys. In fact, the only problem Rose has in her life is the game of sexy one-upmanship she's playing with her biggest competition, Jane. Jane is a sniper who likes to do her job from a distance, but no matter who manages to do the job first, the ladies get together afterward to argue over who gets the fee, and have hot make-up sex at the same time. When Rose is burned by the family of one of her marks, though, the game changes. When Jane's handler tells her she gets the honor of taking Rose out, Jane knows she can't just kill her best girl. Jane must rescue Rose in time to keep both of them alive, or their lust-filled contest will end with a very final bang.

Feather in the Wind by Madeline Baker. Black Wind is struggling. He needs answers and searches the sky for them. What he finds is her face. A beautiful vision that he knows will change his life. Searching for her next book's inspiration, Susannah finds a faded picture. A man who seems to call to her from years past. She did not expect that call to take her from her own time to his, and prove that love can defy time.

Rain by Amanda Sun. When she first moved to Japan, American Katie Green had no idea she would get caught in a battle between the Japanese mafia and the supernatural forces that have governed Japan for most of its history. Despite the danger, Katie is determined to stay put. She's started to build a life in the city of Shizuoka, and she can't imagine leaving behind her friends, her aunt and especially Tomohiro, the guy she's fallen in love with. But the decision to stay is not as simple as she thought. She's flunking out of Japanese school and committing cultural faux pas wherever she goes. Tomohiro is also struggling—as a Kami, his connection to the ancient gods of Japan and his power to bring drawings to life have begun to spiral out of control. When Tomo decides to stop drawing, the ink finds other ways to seep into his life—blackouts, threatening messages and the appearance of unexplained sketches. Unsure how to help Tomo, Katie turns to an unexpected source for help—Jun, her former friend and a Kami with an agenda of his own. But is Jun really the ally he claims to be? In order to save themselves, Katie and Tomohiro must unravel the truth about Tomo's dark ancestry, as well as Katie's, and confront one of the darkest gods in Japanese legend.

The Keepers: Declan by Rae River. Keepers book 2. "You lied to me, misled me, attacked me," Declan murmured, dipping his head toward hers, "but what we had three months ago wasn't fake, was it?" Kate's gaze faltered to his lips, heat pulsing between them. But she didn't deny it. Declan Bennett has zero tolerance for thieves. He and his brothers, the Keepers, are fiercely protective of their witch, Sienna, and their privacy. So when Kate Carrigan breaks into their estate, he'll be damned if he lets the little wildcat get away with it - especially after she seduced him three months ago, leaving him buck-naked in a New Orleans hotel. Declan wants payback - and some answers. Before she was murdered, Kate's mother ingrained it in her not to trust anyone. Kate's magical powers make her a pawn in the war between good and evil, a war she's always avoided. Declan is everything she's been taught to fear, even if she can't forget the memory of his touch that one night... Trouble is brewing as the powers of evil regroup -- bolder and hungrier than ever -- and Kate is forced to choose a side.

"Something Sweeter" by Candis Terry.

Something Sweeter by Candis Terry. Seattle event planner Allison Lane is an expert at delivering the perfect wedding—even if she might not exactly believe in the whole "'til death do us part" thing. When her father decides to tie the knot with a woman he barely knows, Allison heads to Sweet, Texas, to make sure his new honey is the real deal. What she didn't expect to find at the local honky-tonk was a sexy Southern man as bent on charming her pants off as he is on blowing her "true love doesn't exist" theory all to hell. Veterinarian, former Marine, and Sweet's favorite playboy Jesse Wilder takes one look at Allison and knows she's a handful of trouble he can't deny. But even after a sizzling kiss and obvious mutual attraction, it seems Allison has no such problem. When Jesse uncovers her sweet side, can he crush his playboy image, melt her cynical heart, and change her mind about taking a trip down the aisle?

Body, Ink and Soul by Jude Ouvrard. Phoenix Silverstone more commonly known as Nix, is a twenty-one year old that has finally discovered her freedom. After living under the strict rules and protection of her mother, Nix moved out with her two best friends in a quaint little Seattle apartment. For the first time Nix is finally able to spread her wings and breathe. Together, they get a job working at a bar and for the first time everything is perfect. Freedom, friendships, a great job and fantastic man on the verge of becoming hers. Tristan is the suave, intelligent, not to mention gorgeous law student that Nix has her eyes and heart set on. For the first time, she has her life together; that is, until her path crosses with Levi. The charming, tattooed and downright sexy bad boy that Nix knows she needs to avoid. But when one of her friends moves out she is shocked to find that her new roommate is none other than Levi. Flirting. Desire. Undeniable temptations. Nix can't deny the chemistry surging between them but she can't forget her mother's extreme hate towards bad boys. Will Nix have the strength to listen to her heart? Or will her mother's rules cost her everything?

A Promise at Dawn by Jane Leopold Quinn. Widow Faye Burke watches the sun rise over the Atlantic Ocean. Her guilty pleasure is the hunk running along the beach. The lovely woman watching Gil Farrelly gets his creative juices flowing. He's determined to paint her. Faye fears their age difference will separate them. Gil intends to prove otherwise.

Embracing Her Surrender by Lynn St. James. In book two of Anamchara: Kristy Larson was sent to Anamchara on a secret mission—locate the ancient evil threatening the town and extinguish it. She struggles with fitting in while the sheriff hounds her at every turn. To make matters worse, she finds herself drawn to the arrogant, stubborn wolf who is on the fast track of capturing her heart. Jeremy Pierce, sheriff and Alpha of the Blue Ridge Pack, has been fighting his own demons for over thirty years. Blaming himself for the murder of a friend, he left Anamchara to forget. When called back to fulfill his birthright, he focused on one thing—keeping the people of Anamchara safe. In his mind, one woman threatens their safety. Suspicions rule his judgment, but it doesn't keep his feelings from growing for the woman. Will Kristy be able to complete her mission to free the town of evil and finally live her life? Will Jeremy be able to overlook his suspicions and open his heart to Kristy before it's too late? Or does the evil win this round, causing the town of Anamchara to suffer a great loss.

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