Blog Tour + Excerpt + Review: "Tie Me Down" by Melanie Harlow

I'm very excited to take part in the blog tour celebrating the release of "Tie Me Down" by Melanie Harlow, the fourth (and sadly final) book of the Bellamy Creek series. Characters from previous stories make appearances in this one, but it reads as a complete standalone. 

 

"Tie Me Down" was a sweet, heartwarming friends-to-lovers romance between hedge fund analyst turned rancher Beckett Weaver and his childhood neighbor, single mom and pediatric nurse practitioner Maddie Blake. For Beckett, Maddie was the one who got away; he'd nursed a crush on her in high school and they even shared a kiss, but their relationship never went any further because Maddie had a boyfriend at the time. When they were reunited as adults, Maddie had just been through a tough divorce and decided to come back to Bellamy Creek to deal with her late mother's estate. She was only planning for a brief visit, not wanting to cause further upheaval for her young son, Elliott, with a move so soon after the divorce. However, the more time she spent in Bellamy Creek, the more she started to feel at home again, especially as Maddie and Beckett's feelings for each other grew into something more than just friendship.
 

Beckett and Maddie were such a cute couple, and I loved their flirty, witty banter and steamy chemistry. The challenges they faced were real and relatable, but it was easy for me to root for them to overcome everything that stood in the way of their being together. I also loved Maddie's son, Elliott, and the sweet relationship that developed between him and Beckett. It really seemed as if they were destined to be together, and it was lovely to see the three of them finally come together as a family.

I'm sad that the Bellamy Creek series is coming to an end, but this book (and particularly the epilogue) was the perfect way to say farewell to these beloved characters. I adored "Tie Me Down" and highly recommend it for all contemporary romance readers. I can't wait to find out where Melanie Harlow plans to take us next!

 

*Review copy provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR. All opinions expressed are my own.

About "Tie Me Down"

Tie Me Down, an all-new swoon-worthy friends to lovers, small town romance from USA Today bestselling author Melanie Harlow, is now live!

Just friends.

That’s all Beckett Weaver and I have ever been.

Sure, he’s a hot cowboy who left Wall Street behind to take over his family’s ranch. Yes, I’ve had a secret crush on him since we were seventeen. And who wouldn’t appreciate those strong hands, that massive chest, and the way he fills out a pair of Levis?

He makes a girl sweat just looking at him . . . and I look. A lot.

But I’m a single mom trying to move on with my life, and he’s running that ranch single-handedly while taking care of his elderly father. We don’t even live in the same state. I only returned to my hometown of Bellamy Creek to sell my late mother’s house, and he just invited me and my son to stay with him because he’s got a big heart.

That’s not the only big thing he’s got--which I discover the night I finally sneak across the hall to his bedroom and shed my inhibitions right alongside my pajamas. And once we give into each other, we can’t stop.

The hayloft. The bed of his truck. The dock by the pond.

Nothing has ever felt so right, but his past has taught him not to believe in happily ever after, and every perfect night I spend in his arms brings us closer to goodbye.

Like any cowboy, he’s good with a rope and knows exactly how to tie me up.

But what if I want him to tie me down?

 

Read an Excerpt from "Tie Me Down"

When Beckett reached the landing, he headed for his bedroom.

“Night.”

I opened my mouth to say goodnight—I swear I did.

But that’s not what came out.

“I need to tell you something,” I blurted.

He turned and faced me.

“I want to answer your question.” My heart raced, and my fingers locked over my stomach.

“What question?”

“You asked me—last night—why I always chose jerks.”

“You said you didn’t know.”

“I lied. I do know.”

He was silent a moment. “So tell me.”

I took a step toward him. “I chose jerks because they didn’t ask anything of me. They didn’t expect anything of me. They didn’t even want much from me—just skin.”

Beckett took a deep breath, his chest expanding.

“That’s why I couldn’t be with you,” I whispered.

“Because you think I would have expected perfection?”

“Because you would have deserved it.”

He exhaled and shook his head. “You’re wrong.”

“I’m sorry. This is stupid.” I squeezed my eyes shut a moment. “I don’t even know why I’m telling you this right now. It’s not like I can go back and do things differently. I guess I just wish I would have been brave enough to tell you the truth back then.”

“What’s the truth?”

“That I wish I could have been yours. I know you would have been good to me.”

He said nothing for ten full seconds, during which my heart banged painfully against my ribs and I regretted everything.

“Listen, forget I said anything,” I said quickly. “I don’t know what Blair puts in that apple pie, but—”

“I have something to tell you too.”

I swallowed. “You do?”

“Yeah. Several things, actually.” He moved closer to me, so close I could feel his breath on my lips. “First, I’m glad you finally answered my question. It’s been bothering me for fifteen years. Second, you’re right. I would have been good to you. And third, no—we can’t go back and do things differently. The past is past.”

“Yes. Well, goodnight.” Tears of mortification burning my eyes, I spun away from him, but he grabbed my arm.

“But there’s one more thing.”

“What?” I whispered.

“I sleep with my bedroom door open. But I want you to think hard before you take advantage of that. Because I’m not eighteen anymore, and I’m no longer in the mood to be a gentleman.”

Then he let go of my arm and disappeared across the hall.

With my legs trembling, I slipped into my room, shut the door and leaned back against it, fanning my face.

Holy. Shit.

He’d left it up to me.

But his invitation was clear. I hadn’t imagined it.

And before I thought about it too hard and blew my chance to be with him, I raced into the bathroom, pulled my braids out, and brushed my teeth. Back in my bedroom, I whipped off my clothes and pulled on the pineapple-print tank and matching shorts I’d brought to sleep in. Not exactly my sexiest lingerie, but in my defense, seduction hadn’t been on my to-do list when I’d packed my bags.

Then I took a deep breath, opened my door, and snuck across the hall.

 

***

Release Blitz + Review: "Season Starter" by Amabel Daniels

Congratulations to Amabel Daniels on today's release of "Season Starter," book #1 of the Summer Loving series. It was the first book I've ever read by this author but certainly won't be the last.

"Season Starter" was a fun enemies-to-lovers romance between aspiring B&B owner Jessica "Jessie" Green and contractor Harrison Monroe, who had recently returned to his hometown for a fresh start with his precocious 10-year-old daughter, Mel. He certainly didn't expect his company's first client to be Jessie, the girl he'd been forced to fire years ago when they were both teenagers working for the local ice cream parlor. Out of desperation, Jessie set aside her grudge because Harrison was the only contractor available to take on the renovation of her B&B, which had to be ready to open in only five weeks. If it wasn't, Jessie's purchase of the historic property would be nullified and it would be torn down and turned into a parking lot by her old high school rival.

As Jessie and Harrison spent time together working on the renovation, the chemistry between them became harder and harder to ignore. I really enjoyed the slow burn as they worked through the unresolved feelings from their past, and when they finally acted on them, it was totally worth the wait. That said, I wish the character development had been a bit more in depth for both Jessie and Harrison because I still had a number of questions about them at the end of the story. For example, what happened to Harrison's parents that led to his adoptive father Mikey gaining custody of him and his sister Nina? 

Overall, I enjoyed "Season Starter" and would recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance and romantic comedy. I look forward to continuing the series.

*Review copy provided by the author via DS PR Services. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

About "Season Starter"

Jessie
The last time I saw the man—jerk—of my dreams, he fired me. Now, he’s back in town to renovate my bed and breakfast before the tourist season starts.

I might have gotten over my grudge, but I sure haven’t moved on since him. Harrison is the ideal hunk, or he was back when we were young and stupid. My contractor is still sexy, possibly sweet, and easily keeps up with my sarcasm…but he’s a package deal this time. He’s back with a daughter and a chip on his shoulder, neither of which should matter to me. But the more I see him on the job, each time we clash and fall into our thrilling push-and-pull, I have to wonder if there’s something fresh to start with him before the summer kicks off.

Harrison
Of all people, it just had to be Jessie Green buying this old dump. Imagine my shock that the feisty, gorgeous, stubborn girl I fell in love with in high school is the owner of our town’s former brothel.

Her plans for a B&B are a nearly impossible race against time—doable, but it’s quite the hustle. With the tables turned—her hiring me—it’d be easier if I didn’t have to see her day in and day out, worrying if she can overlook our past, wondering if she tastes as good as she looks, wishing I could have a take two. Hell, even a take one.

Release Blitz + Review: "Not You Again" by Terri Osburn

I'm very happy to join today's release blitz promoting the publication of "Not You Again" by Terri Osburn, book #1 of The NOT series. 

In "Not You Again," overworked event planner Becca Witherspoon agreed to go on a series of blind dates set up by her best friends because they believed it was time for her to move on after the end of her engagement two years earlier. Becca had no intention of actually getting involved in a relationship, but she was tired of her friends nagging and worrying about her and figured that going on a few dates would be an easy way to get them to back off. Unfortunately, her first several dates ended in disaster with jack-of-all-trades Jacob Kim as a witness, and sparks ended up flying for Becca. Unfortunately, those sparks were with Jacob, not any of the men chosen by Becca's well-meaning friends.
 

Becca was a very likeable lead character and I found it easy to empathize with everything she was going through. At the same time, I couldn't help but wish that she was better about standing up for herself, especially with her boss, Amanda. As for Jacob, it was tough to really get to know him because the entire story was told from Becca's point of view, and there were a number of times I wished we had gotten his perspective on events. That said, he seemed like a great guy and I liked him and Becca together. I hope we'll get updates on their relationship in future books about Becca's friends.

Overall, I enjoyed "Not You Again" and would recommend it for chick lit, contemporary romance, and romantic comedy fans. I look forward to the next book in the series.

 

*Review copy provided by the author via Grey's Promotions. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

About "Not You Again"

Four blind dates in five days. I can't believe I agreed to this.

Actually, I can. That’s what I do. I agree to things I don’t want to do to make other people happy. In this case, my four best friends. They’re worried about me and if going on a few dates will make them happy, then I’ll do it. How bad could they be?

I probably shouldn’t have asked that.

I’m starting to seriously wonder if my friends know me at all. Each pick is worse than the last, and none of them compare to my former fiancé. But then I guess maybe that’s the point. Someone new to help me forget the old.

To help me move on.

Except I don’t need a man to prove that I’ve moved on. Why can’t my friends understand that? And why does the same beautiful stranger keep saving me from these awful encounters? The universe seems to be throwing him into my path, and the more time I spend with him the more I wish that he was one of the dates.

There’s one more date left and I can’t help but wonder if he’ll pop up again. How many chance encounters can two people have? Pittsburgh is a big city so the chances are slim.

But what if…? 

 

Release Blitz + Excerpt + Review: "Cakewalk" by Claire Hastings

I'm thrilled to participate in the release blitz celebrating "Cakewalk" by Claire Hastings, book #3 of the multi-author Busy Bean Cafe series set in Sarina Bowen's World of True North. It reads as a complete standalone, though a few characters from previous books make appearances in this one.

"Cakewalk" was a sweet, heartwarming story that featured likeable, sympathetic characters who were easy to root for both individually and as a couple. A flat tire stranded GeorgiaGrace "Gigi" Hawthorne in the small town of Colebury, Vermont, but it seemed as if her bad luck was finally starting to turn around when she landed a job as a baker at the Busy Bean Cafe. She even managed to find a small apartment above the carriage house on the property of local widower Holden St. James. All Gigi wanted was to be a strong, independent woman and prove that she was more than just a pretty face, but unfortunately, her novice baking skills and secrets from her past created more than a few problems for her. However, I loved how determined she was to succeed and that she always kept trying even if she didn't get something right the first time.

When Gigi came into his life, Holden was still mourning the loss of his wife, Hannah, and their unborn daughter six years earlier. He tried to resist his growing feelings for Gigi, but there was something special about her that helped him start to reconnect with the world around him. Most importantly, she helped him find his muse, which allowed him to start writing again. I loved the way that Holden and Gigi opened up to each other - with one notable, and very important, exception on Gigi's part. Gigi's failure to disclose that last secret led to an unexpected twist near the end of the book. Honestly, I wasn't a fan of the twist for a number of reasons, but the biggest one is that I wanted Gigi to have a chance to face her past and show how far she had come on her own.

Despite that one (relatively minor) frustration, "Cakewalk" was an enjoyable story and I would recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance and romantic comedy. Given the main characters' backgrounds, this book easily could have turned into a very emotional read, but IMO the author did an excellent job of addressing serious topics while keeping the tone relatively light. I look forward to picking up more books by Claire Hastings as well as additional books in the Busy Bean/True North world.

 

*Review copy provided by HeartEyes Press. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

About "Cakewalk"

Love isn’t always a cakewalk...

Gigi Hawthorne is starting from scratch. She just didn’t realize until her crappy car broke down that she was going to be doing it in a small town in Vermont. With an eye for design and some serious decorating skills, she’s managed to land a job making delectable treats for the patrons of the Busy Bean. Now she’s up to her elbows in sugar and flour, but her thoughts are never far from her gorgeous, brooding landlord.

Holden St. James swears he isn’t a recluse. He goes to the local coffee shop three times a week, doesn’t he? Yeah, maybe he never actually talks to anyone, but with a backstory of loss, pain, and regret like his, he’s pretty sure he wouldn’t be very good company anyway. Yet something about his new tenant makes him wonder if maybe it’s time to let someone open the oven door and release a little heat into his closed-off world.

But both are hiding secrets as dark as an espresso mocha cupcake and they’re not sure if they can trust each other. Will the truth break their delicate relationship into sad, sweet crumbs--or will it turn out to be the key ingredient in the recipe for a new life? 

 

 

Read an Excerpt from "Cakewalk"

Sneaking another glance at him, she smiled to herself noticing a scone on his plate. He hadn’t taken a bite yet, and her chest filled with nerves as she thought about him trying it for the first time. She wanted everyone to like the goodies she was making for the café, but she really, really wanted Holden to like them. Maybe even like them so much that he’d ask her to make some just for him, at home. An image of the two of them in the kitchen together, covered in ingredients as he pressed her up against the blue cabinets, flitted across her mind, making the nerves in her chest morph into something else entirely. Was that…lust?

Stop it, Gigi…just because the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach doesn’t mean you need to make an attempt. Especially with that man.

The sound of coughing pulled her attention back to the counter, where Officer Nelligan was still standing. When he finally swallowed, he took a long swig of his coffee, blinking harshly, like he was trying to forget a taste.

“Miss Gigi, may I ask what you put in these?”

“Ummmm, usual scone ingredients?” she floundered. “Flour, salt, cream, baking powder, orange zest, cranberries…”

“I’m not much of a baker, but I think you might have mixed up your baking powder and your baking soda. A girl did that in my junior high home ec class, and it tasted much like this—kinda metallic,” Officer Nelligan said.

“What?” Gigi said. All feelings of butterflies and lust were long gone now, replaced by sheer panic. She looked at Officer Nelligan in horror, taking in the scone he’d just bitten into. The apologetic look in his eye told her everything she needed to know—she'd screwed up. Big time.

“Georgia. I don’t know what possesses you to even try these things. It’s a well-established fact that you just are not capable of cooking. Please stop trying—you’re just making yourself look ridiculous,” Bradley’s voice said. She shook her head, trying to clear his words from her mind, as she turned and ran into the kitchen.

Sure enough, the canisters labeled “baking powder” and “baking soda” were right next to each other. However, it was the baking soda whose lid was off and sitting in front of it. That was the one she’d used when measuring out her ingredients.

“Sugar Honey Iced Tea!” she exclaimed, stomping her foot in frustration. She could feel Roderick looking at her, but she didn’t have the heart to turn around and see the expression on his face.

“Uh oh,” she heard Roderick’s voice say over her shoulder. “That’s a bad day.”

Was she ever not going to screw this up? When would she learn that she couldn't do this? No, what she couldn’t do was let Bradley’s words get to her.

At least it was just Officer Nelligan. He was used to seeing her at her worst at this point. He and Holden.

Holden.

Holden had also ordered a scone. But he hadn’t eaten it yet. Right?

Racing back up front, she skidded to a stop in front of his table to find him mid-bite into the inedible treat.

“Nooo!” she cried. “Don’t eat that—it’s…”

“A bit salty…” he responded, choking it down.

Gigi could feel the tears starting to prick at her eyes, but she wasn’t going to let anyone here see her cry. It was no big deal. So she got the canisters mixed up. Happens to everyone at some point, right?

“I’ll get you a muffin,” she told him, turning back to the counter. Looking between Holden and Officer Nelligan, she sighed. “At least it was just you two, right?”

“And Mr. Hughes,” Kirk said, not looking up from the espresso machine.

“Who?”

“That older guy who bought six. Owns Hughes Hardware store up the street.”

“Oh, for heaven’s sake!” she exclaimed before turning and running out the front door. She had to get to him before he let his employees have any of them.

Deserting the café like this was probably not her best move, but she figured after this disaster, she was going to be lucky to even have a job. 

 

Release Blitz + Review: "For Lucy" by Jewel E. Ann

I'm pleased to participate in today's release blitz celebrating the publication of "For Lucy" by Jewel E. Ann. 

"For Lucy" was an emotional roller coaster filled with twists, turns, and more than its fair share of tragedy and heartbreak. Even though it was sometimes incredibly sad, I was totally engrossed in Emmett and Tatum's story from the moment I started reading it, and I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen next. The alternating past/present timelines really ratcheted up the suspense as I anxiously waited to find out why their marriage broke down after what seemed like such a promising beginning. 

 

It was impossible not to empathize with both Emmett and Tatum as the full story was revealed; no parent should ever have to go through what they did. That said, I found it very difficult to actually like Tatum. I'm sure part of the problem was that Emmett was the one narrating the story, so there was no way to truly understand Tatum's thoughts and feelings. I'm also sure that her grief drove her to say and do a lot of things that she wouldn't have otherwise. When added together, however, I was left with the impression that Tatum was looking everywhere but at herself to place blame for what had happened, when the fact is that she also played a part in it. Between that and Tatum and Emmett's total breakdown in communication, it was easy to see how their marriage reached a breaking point.

 

Even though much of the story was focused on Emmett and Tatum, their daughter Lucy ended up being the real star of the book for me. She added some much needed lightness to what was otherwise a very heavy story thanks to her "typical teenager" interactions with her parents. I was also amazed by Lucy's unexpected maturity and strength in the face of adversity. I would love to read another story about Lucy as an adult. She deserves a happy ending of her own!

Overall, "For Lucy" was an incredibly well-written story that gave me all the feels, but I had a tough time getting past my dislike of Tatum and her behavior. I recommend it for fans of emotional contemporary romance, with a content warning for those who may be sensitive to stories including the loss of a child and/or miscarriage.

 

*Review copy provided by the author via Valentine PR. All opinions expressed are my own.  

 

 

About "For Lucy"

From USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling author Jewel E. Ann comes a novel so heartfelt and real it redefines the meaning of love.

I'm the wrong guy in the right place the night I steal Tatum Bradshaw from another man. When she mistakes me for her blind date, I decide she deserves a man who shows up on time ... like me. Emmett Riley, Mr. Punctual.

Once I confess my true identity and convince her I'm not a creep--just a thief--it's only a matter of time before my sexy smile and quick wit claim her heart, her hand in marriage, and the perfect life.

Unfortunately, perfection is an illusion, like the promises of our wedding vows. No one can prepare for the unimaginable--the heartbreaking exception to all the rules in life.

When thirty seconds destroys everything, I have to find a new existence and keep my promise to always love our daughter, Lucy, the most.

For Lucy, I will keep a secret, and I will watch my wife drift into the arms of another man.

Given the chance ... can I reclaim my wife and the pieces of our life?

*This story contains sensitive subject matter.

Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

 

Blog Tour + Review: "Summer Rebound" by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee

I'm delighted to take part in the blog tour celebrating the release of "Summer Rebound" by Laurelin Paige and Kayti McGee, episode #2 of the Dating Season series. The events of each installment build on those of the previous ones and follow the same main character, so IMO it's best to read these stories in order.

In "Summer Rebound," main character Chloe desperately needed to let off some steam after a disastrous breakup with personal trainer Finn, so she decided to let her best friend Charlotte loose on her dating app and surprise her with her next date. Charlotte chose tattooed bad boy Dune: treasurer of the local motorcycle club, accountant, and lover of spreadsheets and to-do lists. Dune was very alpha but also surprisingly sweet at times, but his attachment to his cat, Coco, was a bit much for Chloe to handle. That wasn't the only red flag in the relationship, but Chloe was determined to step outside her comfort zone and try to make things with Dune work.

This story was so funny, especially Chloe's inner monologue and efforts to find a romance novel to guide her through her relationship with Dune. There was also a good amount of character growth as Chloe started to figure out what she really wants from a relationship. She's getting much better at standing up for herself and recognizing that her needs and desires are just as important as her partner's. Finally, I continued to enjoy the dynamic between Chloe and her crush-turned-roommate, Austin. I'm not giving up hope of a future relationship between the two of them, no matter how perfect his girlfriend Lucy may seem.

Overall, I enjoyed "Summer Rebound" even more than the first installment of this series and highly recommend it for fans of chick lit and romantic comedy. I'm excited to find out what happens in episode #3!

 

*Review copy provided by the author via Candi Kane PR. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

 

About "Summer Rebound"

Summer is for throwing caution to the wind, and Dune’s a bad boy that lives for danger.

Colorado is heating up, much like my newly re-discovered libido, and I’m hoping like hell that my new blind date’s hot, too. Fate (and my bestie) truly deliver a doozy:

He rides motorcycles.
His tattoos are insanely hot.
The mystery of his life is all but unsolvable.

This good girl is about to get a little bit bolder in search of truth, justice, and a rebellious phase. 

 

Blog Tour + Excerpt + Review: "Fake" by Kylie Scott

Today, I'm incredibly excited to join the blog tour celebrating the release of "Fake" by Kylie Scott, book #1 of the West Hollywood series. It was the first book I've ever read by Ms. Scott, but it certainly won't be the last.

 

"Fake" was a funny, sweet story featuring likeable characters and a fast-paced, engaging plot. When A-list actor Patrick Walsh became embroiled in a scandal involving his best friend/co-star, Grant, and Grant's wife, Liv, his publicist, Angie, decided that he needed a "girlfriend" to rehabilitate his image. Against Angie's advice, Patrick chose Norah Peers, a girl-next-door waitress at his favorite Italian restaurant, over the beautiful aspiring actresses and models Angie had lined up for him to interview for the job. In need of cash to support her elderly grandmother, Norah agreed to the scheme. She quickly found herself living in Patrick's house in West Hollywood and accompanying him on dates in a brand-new designer wardrobe. However, it wasn't long before Norah learned that the Hollywood lifestyle wasn't as glamorous as it seemed to be from the outside, and it became increasingly difficult to remember that things between her and Patrick weren't real. 

 

I loved the slow burn between Patrick and Norah as their relationship grew from an uneasy friendship into something more. Patrick was so taciturn at first and spoke to Norah only when absolutely necessary, but there was something really sweet about him when he finally relaxed and opened up to her. My one (small) complaint about the story was that the ending seemed a bit rushed, but I did like that Norah and Patrick addressed what might happen in their relationship going forward given the realities of Patrick's job.

The book's secondary characters were also a lot of fun and added a tremendous amount of depth and humor to the story. I particularly enjoyed Patrick's funny, smart assistant Mei, who seemed to run his life along with his publicist, Angie. I also liked Patrick's friends Cole and Jack and hope that we will see them again in future stories. Finally, Norah's grandmother was hilarious and I loved that she wasn't afraid to speak her mind.

Overall, I really enjoyed "Fake" and highly recommend it for all fans of contemporary romance and romantic comedy. I look forward to the next book in the series.

 

*Review copy provided by the author via Social Butterfly PR. All opinions expressed are my own.

 

About "Fake"

Fake, an all new witty and sexy fake relationship, grumpy hero standalone from New York Times bestselling author Kylie Scott, is available now!

He walks the red carpet. She’s more familiar with vacuuming one.

When a scandal tarnishes the reputation of hot as hell A-lister, Patrick Walsh, he needs a reputation rescue, pronto.

Enter waitress Norah Peers–a nobody who’s average with a capital A. She’s available, dependable, and has sworn off men for the rest of her natural born life. In other words: the perfect match for a no-strings fake romance.

For the right amount of money, she can avoid waitressing and play the part of his dependable down-to-earth girlfriend. What she can’t avoid–dammit–is the growing steam between them.

But being hounded by the paparazzi and having her life dissected on social media is a panic attack in the making. And while Patrick might be a charming rogue on screen, in real life he’s a six-foot-two confusing, gorgeous, brooding grump, who keeps her at a distance . . . but also makes her feel like this bond between them might be more than just an act.

Being dumped on cue should be no big deal. Except being fake with Patrick is the realist relationship Norah has ever had. What’s a girl to do, but flip the script, and ask for a re-match made in Hollywood?

Read an Excerpt from "Fake"

CHAPTER ONE

He slunk into the restaurant mid-afternoon wearing his usual scowl. Ignoring the closed sign, he took a booth near the back. No one else was allowed to do this. Just him. Today’s wardrobe consisted of black jeans, Converse, and a button-down shirt. Doubtless designer. And the way those sleeves hugged his biceps . . . why, they should have been ashamed of themselves. I was this close to yelling “get a room.”

Instead, I asked, “The usual?”

Slumped down in the corner of the booth, he tipped his chin in reply. For such a tall guy, he sure went out of his way to try to hide.

I said no more. Words were neither welcomed nor wanted. Which was fine since (A) I was tired and (B) he tipped well for the peace and quiet.

Out back, Vinnie the cook was busy prepping for tonight, his knife making quick work of an onion.

“He’s here,” I said.

A smile split Vinnie’s face. He was a huge fan of the man’s action films. The ones he’d made before hitting it big time and taking on more serious dramatic roles. Him choosing to visit the restaurant every month or so made Vinnie’s life complete. Especially since the restaurant, Little Italy, was the very definition of a hole in the wall. Not somewhere generally frequented by the Hollywood elite. Meanwhile, I was less of a fan, but still a fan. You know.

“Get him his beer,” Vinnie ordered.

Like I didn’t know my job. Sheesh.

He was busy with his cell by the time I placed the Peroni in front of him. No glass. He drank straight from the bottle like an animal. Just then, a woman in a red sweater dress and tan five-inch-heel booties strode in through the front door.

“I’m sorry, we’re closed,” I said.

“I’m with him.” She headed straight for his booth and slid into the other side, giving the man a dour look. “You can’t just walk out, Patrick. You’re going to have to choose one of them.”

“Nope.” He took a pull from his beer. “They all sucked.”

“There had to be at least one that would do.”

“Not even a little.”

She sighed. “Keep this up and you’ll be obsolete by next week. Beyond help. Forgotten.”

“Go away, Angie.”

“Just another talented but trash male in Hollywood. That’s what they’re saying on social media.”

“I don’t give a shit.”

“Liar,” she drawled.

I wasn’t quite sure what to do. Obviously they knew each other, but he did not seem to want her here. And she really wasn’t supposed to be here. Vinnie had okayed after-hours entry to only one person. On the other hand, if I asked her to leave, she’d probably sic her lawyers on me. She looked the type.

The woman spied me hovering. “Get me a glass of red.”

“She’s not staying,” countermanded Patrick.

Angie didn’t move an inch. “They were all viable options. Pliant. Young. Pretty. Discreet. Nothing weird or kinky in their backgrounds.”

“That might have made them more interesting.”

“Interesting women is what got you into this mess.” The woman frowned, taking me in. Still hovering. One perfectly shaped brow rose in question. “Yes? Is there a problem?”

Now it was Patrick’s turn to sigh and give me a nod. He was so dreamy with his jaw and cheekbones and his everything. Real classic Hollywood handsome. Especially with his short light brown hair in artful disarray and a hint of stubble. Sometimes it was hard not to stare. Which is probably why his personality tended to scream “leave me alone.”

I headed for the small bar area at the back of the restaurant to fetch the wine like a good little waitress.

“We shouldn’t be discussing this here,” said Angie, giving the room a disdainful sniff. Talk about judgy. I thought the raw brick walls and chunky wood tables were cool. Give or take Vinnie’s collection of old black-and-white photos of Los Angeles freeways. Who knew what that was about?

Patrick slumped down even further. “I’m not going back there. I’m done with it.”

“This isn’t safe.” Angie looked around nervously. “Let’s—”

“We’re fine. I’ve been coming here for years.” 

“You just got dropped from a big-budget film, Patrick,” she said, exasperation in her tone. “The industry may not find you bankable right now, but I’m sure gossip about you is still selling just fine. This week at least.” 

***