Reese Ryan Romance

Colorful characters. Sinfully sweet romance.

Excerpts

Blending My Passions: Books, Food, and Music

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A small piece of me surfaces in every story that I write. And since books, food, and music are a few of the things I am passionate about, music and food often show up in the stories I write.

One of my favorite scenes in Engaging the Enemy is where Kayleigh teaches Parker—her former friend and fake fiancé—how to dance with Marvin Gaye crooning “I Want You” in the background. In The Billionaire’s Legacy, Benji and Sloane dance to L.T.D.’s “Love Ballad” at Blake and Savannah’s wedding. And in A Valentine for Christmas Julian and Chandra can’t resist going down the Soul Train line when McFadden & Whitehead’s “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now” begins to play.

And as for food…well my characters are always eating and drinking. From the fluffy, crispy, delicious waffles Parker and Kayleigh shared over breakfast at their mountain cabin to the meals Blake cooks for Savannah in Savannah’s Secrets or the gooey, decadent brownies Dallas and Zora shared in Waking Up Married the night before they awoke to discover that they’d gotten hitched at a Vegas chapel.

My latest release, Twice Faked—an HEA Collective Exclusive—gave me another opportunity to mash up my love of books, music, and food. The story is about a fading pop star and a celebrity DJ who find themselves faking a relationship again, just like in high school. Only this time the stakes are much higher than vying to be Homecoming King and Queen.

Karris Baker is trying to stave off the bad press after her breakup with her former boy band beau so it doesn’t detract from the publicity she’s trying to drum up to save her old high school in Atlanta, Georgia, which is dilapidated and on the verge of closing. Ward Hughes is tired of traveling the world and living in hotels. He wants to settle down in Atlanta and start the next phase of his career as a songwriter and record producer. So helping Karris write and produce her comeback album would be just the thing to help him switch tracks in his career. But as they fake a relationship to save their old school and revive their careers, they discover that maybe nothing about their relationship has ever really been fake.

I had so much fun writing Twice Faked—available exclusively through the Happily Ever After Collective patreon here. The story is a blend of fake relationship, enemies to lovers, and second-chance romance with lots of fun banter and a host of memorable secondary characters (something I also love.)

To get your copy, join the Happily Ever After Collective for as little as five dollars a month. You’ll get access to exclusive behind-the-scenes info, exclusive author chats, HEA Collective merchandise and so much more.

Read the second excerpt of Twice Faked below. Read the first excerpt here.

Twice Faked Excerpt #2

“So… about this proposal of yours that we date. For publicity reasons,” he added quickly.

“You’re considering my request?” Karris turned toward Ward. “What happened to ‘request made and denied’?” She mimicked his deep voice.

“You know you’re not helping your cause, right?” Ward furrowed one of his thick brows and frowned.

“Sorry.” Karris tucked her hair behind one ear. “Maybe I’m looking a gift horse in the mouth here, but you were so adamant about not doing it. What changed?”

Ward shifted his gaze from hers to his photos on the wall, then back to her again. “I’ve had a change in perspective.” He folded his leg, propping an ankle over his knee and resting his chin on his fist. “Tell me how you see this playing out?”

Between her own objections to this plan and Ward’s rejection, she hadn’t thought through the details.

“I just need to change the story out there about me. I was thinking we could go on a few dates. Be seen having brunch at Café Intermezzo and a few other spots around town. Be photographed at a nightclub or high-profile event in New York or LA—whichever you’d prefer.”

Ward stared at her with an unreadable expression, so she kept prattling on.

“You’re a very busy person, so I want to be respectful of your time and work around your schedule. It’ll take a little planning so we can leak our location to the right media outlets. Take a few photos with fans to ensure the sighting hits social media and the right blogs.”

“Will we be required to wear matching outfits?” Ward groused.

“I’m a solo act, sweetie. I don’t do matching outfits.”

One of Ward’s thick eyebrows shot up.

“Correction: I haven’t done matching outfits since we wore them in high school,” she clarified.

“Humph.”

Karris was beginning to think conversing with a tiger would be easier. At least the tiger would eat her and put her out of her misery.

Eat her?

Okay, now she was having indescribably naughty thoughts about those sensual lips of Ward’s.

And if you’re on TikTok or Instagram, don’t forget to follow me there.

Until next week!

Reese Ryan. Colorful characters. Sinfully sweet romance.

Now Available: SECRET HEIR SEDUCTION by Reese Ryan

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Secret Heir Seduction by Resse Ryan

Can he tell her the truth…this time?

Will he risk everything for a reunion? Will she give him the chance?

Discovering he’s a long-lost heir isn’t the only surprise awaiting Darius Taylor-Pratt in Royal, Texas. He’s next door to his ex after five long years. Darius broke off his red-hot relationship with designer Audra Covington without explanation. He still has regrets…and truths he’s hiding. Rekindling their flame may cost him…especially when new secrets surface to threaten their second shot at seduction.

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EXCERPT

Darius took another of the wedge fries, swiped it in the milkshake and popped it in his mouth.

It was something people over the age of twelve usually found repulsive. But today, he deserved to indulge himself.

“A bacon cheeseburger, fries and a strawberry shake. I was going to ask if it was a really good day or a really bad one, but then you dipped your fry into your shake, so I guess that answers that.”

Darius froze, then turned toward the familiar voice. His eyes widened.

“Audra Lee Covington?”

No, it isn’t possible.

What would his grad school girlfriend be doing in Royal, Texas?

“So you do remember me.” She folded her arms. “I wasn’t sure you would. After all, you never returned my calls.”

Remember? He couldn’t forget her if he tried. She’d been his biggest regret. The woman who still haunted his dreams.

He stared at her, blinking. Still not sure he could believe his eyes.

She was stunning, as always. Her dark wavy hair was tucked behind her ears and fell to her shoulders. Gold-and-diamond starburst ear climbers decorated the outer curve of each ear. She wore a cream-colored, chunky-knit sweater and distressed skinny jeans that hugged every curve. And there was a small, star-shaped diamond stud in one nostril.

“Audra.” He stood, wiping his hands on a napkin. He inhaled her sweet scent as they shared an awkward hug. “What on earth are you doing here?”

“Good to see you, too,” she said sarcastically as she stepped away, folding her arms again. Her lips pressed into a harsh line as she narrowed her gaze at him.

If looks could kill, he’d be laid out on the black-and-white tile floor with a chalk line around him.

SECRET HEIR SEDUCTION by Reese Ryan

“It’s good to see you, Audra, of course. I should’ve said I’m stunned to see you here in Royal, Texas.” He gestured toward the opposite side of the booth. “You look…amazing.” It was an egregious understatement. She was drop-dead gorgeous. “Join me?”

Audra’s sensual lips, shiny with lip gloss, quirked in a semi-frown as she studied him. Finally, she nodded and slid across from him in the booth.

“The new look—” she indicated his bald head, a look he’d transitioned to nearly three years ago “—I like it. It suits you.”

“Thanks.” He cleared his throat. “What did you order?”

“They make an incredible Cobb salad. It probably has as many calories as your burger and fries, but at least I feel like I’m making an effort.”

He’d always loved her refreshing honesty. Too bad he hadn’t afforded her the same. Their story still would’ve ended. But if he’d been honest with her then, at least he’d have no regrets where Audra was concerned.

“LA Fashion Week is just a few weeks away. I’d expect the great Audra Lee Covington to be in the design studio right now.”

Audra was a diamond heiress. She’d broken rank with her very traditional family and formed her own company that catered to a younger, trendier clientele. Her name got frequent mentions in fashion magazines when A-list actors, musicians and social influencers bragged that they were iced in Audra Lee Covington diamond earrings, necklaces, bracelets and tiaras.

“Royal isn’t my usual hangout. That’s for sure.” A deep smile lit Audra’s rich espresso-brown eyes, the same color as her shoulder-length hair. “I got an early start on the season this year. So when I received a lucrative request from a wealthy bride-to-be here in Royal, I couldn’t resist. I’m creating custom wedding jewelry for the couple and gifts for their bridal party. So I’m staying in town for a bit. Getting to know the area and the bride, who will be returning from New York tomorrow with her fiancé. I’d hardly expect to run into you here, either.” She clasped her hands on the table. “I hear Thr3d will be doing a runway show this year.”

“We are. My team is back in LA working tirelessly to prepare for it.”

SECRET HEIR SEDUCTION by Reese Ryan

She produced a gum-filled lollipop from her pocket, opened the wrapper and popped it in her mouth.

Was that a fucking tongue ring?

Darius was pretty sure his jaw hit the ground and another part of his body reached for the sky.

Good thing he’d returned to his seat.

Audra propped her elbows on the table and tilted her head as she studied him. “What brings you to Royal?”

“A business opportunity.” It wasn’t a lie. The opportunity to collaborate with Miranda had brought him to town.

She sucked on that damn lollipop, which had already stained her tongue red, and awaited further explanation.

“It’s too early to share details.” He picked up his burger. “But I’m hoping to create a clothing line for a major fitness brand.”

“Ah.” When she said it, he couldn’t help staring at her candy-red, pierced tongue. “Miranda Dupree. Scoring the clothing line for her Goddess brand would be a major coup.”

“How’d you—”

“It’s a small world, I guess.” She shrugged. “Miranda is my client’s ex-stepmother. My client is Sophie Blackwood. Do you know her?”

His half sister. Damn. It was a small world.

“Never met her.” He shrugged. “But I’ve heard the name.”

Less than an hour ago, in fact.

Audra’s mouth made a popping sound when she yanked the lollipop from between her lips. She stared at him, her brown eyes narrowed. Judging him. As if she didn’t believe him.

Darius bit a mouthful of the bacon cheeseburger.

He hadn’t seen Audra in five years. They weren’t together, and she had no right to know his personal business.

So why did he feel as guilty now for telling her a half-truth as he had when they were together?

Audra returned the sucker to her mouth and rose from the table. She didn’t believe him, but she obviously didn’t deem pursuing the truth worth her time.

Knowing she found him unworthy made his chest ache. Her wordless condemnation was exactly what he deserved.

“Looks like they’re done with my order.” Audra nodded toward where Amanda was packing a to-go bag. “Nice seeing you again, Darius. Good luck with Fashion Week.”

Darius groaned quietly as he swiped another French fry into his milkshake and took a bite.

Audra made a hasty escape, and he couldn’t blame her.

He was a liar. Apparently, it was hereditary.

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ABOUT REESE RYAN

Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional romance with captivating family drama, surprising secrets, and a posse of complex, flawed characters.

A Midwesterner with deep Southern roots, Reese currently resides in semi-small-town North Carolina where she’s an avid reader, a music junkie, and a self-declared connoisseur of cheesy grits.

CONNECT WITH REESE RYAN

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A TASTE OF HER OWN MEDICINE BY TASHA L. HARRISON

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A Taste of Her Own Medicine by Tasha L. Harrison

“He looks like he could plow my north field without a horse.”

Sonja Watts needs to re-enter the workforce after divorcing her husband of thirteen years. Taking the advice of her sister Birdie and her best friend Estelle, she signs up for a six-week course for entrepreneurs; hoping that she will learn everything she needs to know to build a business to support herself and her kids.

On the first night of class, Sonja is able to ignore the fact that most of the students were younger than her by ten years or more. It was what she expected. But when the instructor walks in, she debates packing up here new twelve hundred dollar laptop and walking out.

Sonja couldn’t remember the last time she looked at a man with little more interest than she give a sturdy dining room table. She was just disinterested.

But wow, did Atlas James grab her interest.

A Taste of Her Own Medicine by Tasha L. Harrison

Atlas hasn’t been interested in dating since he moved back home California. Adjusting to new found success in the town where everyone sees him as that big, geeky guy who cut grass for pocket change when they were in high school has been awkward. Aside from a couple of one night stands, he hasn’t really wanted to pursue a relationship with anyone until sweet, shy Sonja signs up for his class.

Compact, curvy, and juicy in all the right places, being in the same room Sonja Watts ignites all of those giddy feelings he felt when he had his first crush. He wants to know her and he’s pretty sure she wants to know him — despite the age difference that she seems to be so fixated on.

With her future riding on the success of her new business, Sonja has no time for distraction. Will she be able to keep her eyes on her own paper or will they remain glued to Atlas’s biceps and thick thighs?

AVAILABLE ON

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chapter one  

Sonja

The strip of shops, eateries, and galleries in The Village of West Greenville were dark and quiet when I pulled my Subaru into the parking lot a few blocks away from The CoWorking Spot. In the last few years, this part of town had experienced some growth with the arrival of a few restaurants and specialty shops. But that was just a handful of businesses; most of which closed at or around six o’clock, leaving the streets quiet on a late summer evening. I took advantage of this moment of quiet. Closed my eyes and took a few deep breaths to settle the nervous butterflies in my stomach.

About a month ago, I allowed myself to be convinced to sign up for a six-week entrepreneurship course— something I’ve been regretting since the day the payment cleared. 

What makes me think I could run my own business? 

The only thing I’d managed in the last ten years was a household, and occasionally, the front desk at my ex-husband’s real estate offices. Those skills didn’t necessarily translate into the sort of hustle one needed to be an entrepreneur. But at the time, my sisters Birdie and Agostina, as well as my friend Estelle, made it seem like a great idea to start a business with the skincare products I made from the herbs and medicinal flowers in my garden. And I agreed. Or maybe the gallon of wine I drank that night agreed because now that I was sitting in my car with my brand new laptop, in a brand new laptop bag, I wondered if I’d temporarily lost my mind.

The Bluetooth in my car announced that I had an incoming call from Estelle Murphy.

“Hello?”

“Get out of the car, Sonja,” she ordered. 

“Why did I let you talk me into this?” I groaned and opened the car door, slightly annoyed that she knew me so well. 

“Because you’re more than ready for it. We’ve gone through this. Get out of the car, and I’ll walk down there with you.” 

“Okay. I’m coming.”

I’d arrived a good forty minutes early, mostly because I needed to stop by Ink Blue Yoga to get a pep talk from my Estelle. 

Ink Blue, Estelle’s yoga studio,was one of my favorite places. The front windows went floor to ceiling, which made the interior look and feel bright and warm. The smooth, shiny hardwood floors were warm in the winter months and cool in the summer. They welcomed bare feet and I almost wanted to drop my bags, strip down and get in a few vinyasas. Estelle was good at this business thing and was brilliant at getting her studio seen. If I checked our town’s hashtag on Instagram on any given day, her yoga studio always showed up in the top nine. 

“Hey, Soni,” my friend said and gave me a knowing look as I came in. “Amelia?” 

The woman sweeping at the far end of the studio looked up.

“I’m going to walk Soni down to the The Coworking Spot. I’ll be right back.”

“No, problem. I’ll get everything set up for the six-thirty class.” 

She grabbed two bottles of water out of the cold case near the cash wrap and handed me one. I opened it and followed her back out to the sidewalk. 

“Okay,” she said. “Out with it. What are you feeling right now?”

I gnawed on my bottom lip. “I’m nervous.”

[Read more…] about A TASTE OF HER OWN MEDICINE BY TASHA L. HARRISON

Bonus Excerpt from EVERYTHING IS BETTER WITH LISA by Lucy Eden

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If you loved the excerpt I shared from EVERYTHING IS BETTER WITH LISA by Lucy Eden on Monday as much as I did, I have a treat for you. It’s a bonus excerpt. Check the excerpt out below, then click the link provided to read the first three chapters.

Reese Ryan. Colorful characters. Sinfully sweet romance.

“Cole?” My mom’s voice called to me again, and I realized as I leaned on the doorway of her office watching the party, I hadn’t answered her question.

I pushed myself off of the doorframe and turned to face her before taking a seat opposite her.

“Susan offered me a job working with her in family law.” I shrugged. 

“And…”

“A month ago, I would’ve jumped at the chance, but now, with the inheritance, it would feel weird every day to get up and go to work. I could do so much with that money.”

Mom laughed. 

“What’s so funny?” I asked. She pulled a notepad out of her desk drawer and scribbled on it before tearing off the page and handing it to me. 

It was a dollar sign followed by eight figures. My jaw dropped. Mom snatched the paper from me and shredded it.

“Close your mouth, sweetie.” She smiled slyly. “And you never saw that. Your father would kill me.”

“Is that your net worth?” I asked. Mom shook her head.

“That’s what your father and I made last year.”

“Last year?” I spluttered. Mom nodded her head demurely. 

I knew we were wealthy, but holy shit. “Have you and Dad always had this much money?”

“No, not always, you know that. But we’ve been very fortunate. We’ve worked hard over the years and invested wisely.”

“Okay, but when we were kids, I saved my allowance for six months to buy a bike for my birthday. Then my bike got stolen, and you and Dad wouldn’t buy me a new one, and I had to save up for another six months to get a new bike.”

“Is there a question in there?” she asked with a laugh.

“Why didn’t you buy me a new bike?”

“And what would you have learned from that?”

“I didn’t learn anything.”

“Did the second bike get stolen?” she asked.

“No, I bought three locks for that thing. I only took it out once a week. I still have that bike.”

She tilted her head and raised her eyebrows; her point having been made.

“So, every time you asked us if we had McDonald’s money, you and Dad could’ve bought a whole McDonald’s?” I raised an eyebrow, and Mom threw her head back, laughing, and clapped her hands together.

“So, when we flew to Italy that year when you and Dad flew first class and Kimmy, RJ, and I sat in coach—”

“Cole…” She touched my arm and smiled. “I didn’t show you that number so you could relive your perceived childhood traumas.” 

I placed my hand on top of the hand on my forearm and laughed.

“I showed you that number because I wanted you to know that your father and I can end our careers with one phone call, retire and never have to worry about money again, with enough to leave to our children so they would never have to work a day in their lives, but we don’t. Do you know why?”

“Because you really like working?”

She laughed again.

“Did your father tell you why he became a judge?” she asked, and I nodded. “Do you want to know why I became a psychiatrist?” She raised an eyebrow, and I nodded again.

“I didn’t grow up with much, and I wasn’t always considered pretty—”

“Seriously?” I asked. 

Author Lucy Eden

My mom was the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen. Some of my earliest memories of her were the stares and compliments she would receive from strangers. Her office walls were decorated with her many degrees, but also magazine covers and ad campaigns she’d been featured in when she was still modeling.

“Yes.” She laughed. “Seriously. My hair was too wild. I was too skinny, too tall, too dark… Then I turned sixteen, and my body changed. I was working at a department store in Baltimore when a modeling scout convinced me to move to New York City. My mother agreed as long as I got my GED. The first two years were hard, but I got a lucky break when another Black model, who was very well known, demanded that there be more Black models on the campaign she was being pitched for. Can you guess who happened to be there at the time dropping off photos to update her portfolio?” My mom beamed a giant smile.

“After that, my career took off, and it was supposed to be easier, but it just got a lot harder. I dealt with racism and sexism. I knew I was getting paid less than my white friends. I suffered abuses and traumas that I didn’t fully understand until years later. I was suffering from depression and anxiety. I started having panic attacks.

“One of my friends suggested I try therapy, and I laughed. Black women don’t go to therapy, I told her. Because that’s how I was raised. You don’t tell strangers your problems, much less pay them to listen. I was expected to fix them or live with them. I thought I had it all figured out. I was taking pills to keep me awake, pills to help me sleep, and ones to keep me thin, and I had prescriptions for all of them. I also developed an eating disorder, which landed me in the hospital.

“Fortunately for me, I’d recently married a very supportive and understanding man who adored me, and with him by my side, I got help. A huge part of that help was therapy.”

“Oh, Mom, I had no idea.” I reached out and clasped her hand.

“You weren’t supposed to.” She patted my hand. “But that’s not why I became a therapist. When I was in the treatment center, my mother came to visit me. After my father died, that woman worked two full-time jobs to make sure my brother and I had enough to eat, and I had to explain to her that I was intentionally starving myself. I was so ashamed.” Her voice broke, and her eyes filled with tears. I crossed her office and grabbed a box of tissues and handed it to her.

“Thank you, baby.” She plucked two tissues out of the box and dabbed her eyes. “I thought she’d be angry with me or disappointed, but she wasn’t. She told me that she was sorry I was in so much pain. She was glad I was getting the help I needed, and she was thankful for Reggie. Then, she said something I’d never forget.” She paused and dabbed her eyes again. “She opened up to me. She told me that she had a hard time dealing with my father’s death and the stress of raising two children alone. She used to cry herself to sleep for years. She never dated because she wanted to protect my brother and me, but also because my mother didn’t think she was strong enough to love someone again only to lose them. I never knew any of these things about her. She was the strongest person I knew, and she suffered in silence for years.

“She asked me if I thought therapy would work for her or if she was too old.” Mom started crying, and it took her a minute to regain her composure. My eyes began to sting, and I dabbed at them with a corner of my sleeve.

“Boy, use a tissue.” Mom shoved the tissue box at me, sniffled, blew her nose, and continued. “Of course, I told her no, it wasn’t too late and at forty-seven years old—which we can agree is not too old to do most things—she started therapy. Then she convinced some of her friends to go. It changed her life. She began to travel. She fell in love and remarried.”

“Yeah,” I agreed. “Granny is awesome, and Pop-pop Hank would’ve bought me that bike.” I joked to ease the tension. Mom cut her eyes at me, and her shoulders shook when she gave me a small chuckle.

“So, at the ripe old age of twenty-two, I retired from modeling and went to school to become a psychiatrist. It was hard work, and it took a long time, but it’s not a job for me. It’s a calling. I have the power to help erase the stigmas of mental illness in my community. My beautiful daughter doesn’t have to be ashamed of having an anxiety disorder. My brilliant autistic son is sought after for his multitude of talents, and I don’t think we would have made it through your teenage years without Dr. Moore.” She raised an eyebrow at me.

“I wasn’t that bad.” I grinned. I wasn’t. I was worse. 

She smiled again and patted my hand.

“And there is so much more work to be done.”

I nodded my head in understanding.

“Cole,” she said, and I looked at her, “how did it feel volunteering at the legal clinic in Puerto Rico?”

“Amazing. It was like all those years of lectures, exams, and internships were worth it just to be able to help one person keep her house. I felt like a superhero.”

“Now, you understand.” She smiled and dabbed at her eyes with the tissue again. 


Link to read the first three chapters: https://BookHip.com/CMKBCD

ALL THE KINGS MEN by Kennedy Ryan (CHARACTER REVEAL)

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“KENNEDY RYAN ALWAYS DELIVERS A STORY WITH EMOTION, POWER, AND OFF-THE-CHARTS SEXUAL TENSION – I DIDN’T THINK SHE COULD RAISE THE BAR ANY HIGHER, BUT SHE DID IT! THE KINGMAKER BLEW ME AWAY.”

 — USA Today Bestselling Author, Robin Covington

All The King’s Men Duet, an all-new powerful and emotional duet from RITA ® Award winning author Kennedy Ryan, is coming October 28th, and we have the first sneak peek! 

Power. Passion. Betrayal. 

RITA®  Award-winning author Kennedy Ryan delivers the epic first installment of the All the King’s Men Duet.

 Raised to rule, bred to lead and weaned on a diet of ruthless ambition. In a world of haves and have nots, my family has it all, and I want nothing to do with it.

My path takes me far from home and paints me as the black sheep. At odds with my father, I’m determined to build my own empire. I have rules, but Lennix Hunter is the exception to every one of them. From the moment we meet, something sparks between us. But my family stole from hers and my father is the man she hates most. I lied to have her, and would do anything to keep her. Though she tries to hate me, too, the inexorable pull between us will not be denied.

And neither will I.

Releasing October 28th 

Pre-order the paperback today!

http://kennedyryanwrites.com/all-the-kings-men/

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Get notified when The Kingmaker is available on Audio: http://bit.ly/kingmakeraudio

EXCERPT

“Some would call your perspective radical.”

“Some would be right,” I say with my sweetest smile. “I’ll continue loving this country on one hand and exposing the government’s kleptocratic practices on the other.”

 “What are we supposed to do with that information, Ms. Hunter?” Bryce asks. “Feel guilty for something our ancestors did? Doesn’t this line of discussion simply perpetuate the divisiveness that’s tearing our country apart? How is this productive?” “Not only is it productive, it’s essential. Most Americans don’t really know the full truth of what happened to Native people because our history books don’t tell it. We have to know what happened if we are to ensure it never happens again. And it’s not just what occurred in the past, but what’s still happening. We’re still living with it, and there are things that can be done now. This is not about blaming for the past. It’s about us all being responsible for the future.”

ABOUT KENNEDY

A RITA® Award Winner and Top 25 Amazon Bestseller, Kennedy Ryan writes for women from all walks of life, empowering them and placing them firmly at the center of each story and in charge of their own destinies. Her heroes respect, cherish and lose their minds for the women who capture their hearts.

She is a wife to her lifetime lover and mother to an extraordinary son. She has always leveraged her journalism background to write for charity and non-profit organizations, but enjoys writing to raise Autism awareness most. A contributor for Modern Mom Magazine, Kennedy’s writings have appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul, USA Today and many others. The founder and executive director of a foundation serving Atlanta families living with Autism, she has appeared on Headline News, Montel Williams, NPR and other media outlets as an advocate for families living with autism. 

Engaging the Enemy #Giveaway & #Excerpt

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Engaging the Enemy by Reese Ryan

The Bourbon Brothers are back!

🥃Enemies-to-Lovers

🥃Fake Fiance

🥃On Sale April 1

𝘼𝙣 𝙖𝙢𝙗𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙝𝙚𝙞𝙧 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝘾𝙀𝙊, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙛𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙖𝙣𝙘é 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙨.

🥃PREORDER: https://amzn.to/2Twl99J

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🥃#GIVEAWAY: http://bit.ly/EngagingGiveaway

🥃#REESERYAN Updates: http://bit.ly/2xITS6k

“Talk to me, Kayleigh.” He needed to see the depths of those brown eyes to make sure he hadn’t sabotaged the progress they’d made. He gently lifted Kayleigh’s chin, and her gaze met his. “Why are you suddenly so agitated?”

“It’s nothing. I…” She sighed heavily as she slipped her hand from his. But rather than pulling away, she clutched his shirt with both hands and lifted onto her toes. Her eyes drifted shut as she pressed her lips to his.

***

Kayleigh Jemison was sure she’d lost her freaking mind. She was kissing Parker Abbott. 𝘐𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺.

Parker seemed stunned at first. He’d gone still, allowing her to take control. But then his strong hands drifted to the back of her neck. His thumbs rested against her cheekbones as he kissed her.

The kiss started off tame and sweet as they felt each other out. But their tentativeness slowly gave way to the heat growing between them. He sucked on her lower lip before tilting her head, sliding his warm tongue inside her mouth and gliding it against hers.

She welcomed it with an involuntary sigh.

Parker was an excellent kisser. She could add that to the long list of things about him that surprised her.

He’d been utterly adorable as he’d struggled to learn to dance. But as they danced to a slow song together, in full contact, hips in motion, his lean, fit body pressed to hers, she couldn’t help wanting him to kiss her again. Something she’d fantasized about since he’d kissed her at his parents’ house.

The memory of that first kiss often flooded her brain, the sensations washing over her with the same intensity they had that day. Each time, she dismissed the prospect of repeating their mistake.

It was a colossally bad idea that would only complicate their arrangement. Yet she couldn’t help wanting him.

#EngagingtheEnemy #ReeseRyan

🥃PREORDER: https://amzn.to/2Twl99J

🥃GOODREADS:  http://bit.ly/2CfcwFH

🥃#GIVEAWAY: http://bit.ly/EngagingGiveaway

🥃#REESERYAN Updates: http://bit.ly/2xITS6k

January 2019 Reese Ryan Recommends

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This winter has been brutal. I’m battling the same cold for the third time, and I’ve been working like crazy to complete my summer 2019 titles. (My publication schedule for 2019 is listed below.) I just turned in my August title. (Woo hoo!) So I’m celebrating with a hot toddy.

What’s on your agenda for the weekend? If you’re looking for a new romance to read, you’re in luck. I have four recommendations below.

Happy reading!

Reese Ryan 2019 Publication Schedule

Looking for your next read? Try one of these.

Looking for a hot read to keep you warm this winter? Here are a few options:

The Rancher’s Bargain
(Texas Cattleman’s Club: Bachelor Auction Book 5)
by Joanne Rock

The Rancher's Bargain by Joanne RockIf you read my latest release, His Until Midnight, the next book in the Texas Cattleman’s Club: Bachelor Auction series is The Rancher’s Bargain by Joanne Rock.Here’s the story:

Can a bachelor auction gone wrong…
mean temptation for the rich rancher?

James Harris needs a nanny for his nephew—now! So when Lydia Walker’s sister reneges on an extravagant bachelor-auction bid, the Texas Cattleman’s Club president has an idea. He’ll cover the debt, and Lydia will care for the baby. Neither is prepared for the passion that blindsides them. But is a permanent personal arrangement more than they bargained for? Get your copy of The Rancher’s Bargain here.

The Johnson Family Series (Books 1-3)
by Delaney Diamond

The Johnson Family Series by Delaney DiamondFamily. Wealth. Power. Romance.
Books one, two, and three of the Johnson Family series—available in a box set for a limited time!

UNFORGETTABLE: She offered everything he never knew he needed…
Ivy Johnson is stunned when Lucas Baylor makes an appearance at her family’s event in Seattle. She hasn’t seen him in nine years and never expected to again. Avoiding him is a must. She can’t let him uncover her secret, but Lucas won’t be denied. When her deception is revealed, it throws his life into a tailspin and forces them to face the truth of their feelings for each other—feelings they’ve both tried in vain to forget.

PERFECT: Does the end justify the means?
Cyrus Johnson is rich, powerful, and used to getting his way. When his estranged wife shows up at his office demanding a divorce once and for all, he not only refuses, he makes a demand of his own.
Daniella Barrett-Johnson has little bargaining power where Cyrus is concerned, and he’s already used his vast financial resources to prolong their divorce and keep her tied to him. Her only hope is to give him what he wants, but if she does, how will she ever be able to leave him for good?

JUST FRIENDS: Should they risk their friendship for a chance at love?
Alannah Bailey is tired of being the boring best friend of Trenton Johnson and decides on a makeover. After the changes, she starts dating, but instead of being happy, Trenton acts like he wants to keep her under lock and key.
Trenton is used to partying and having his pick of women. Such an advantage comes with the Johnson name, their money, and his own good looks. When he needs downtime, he depends on his best buddy, Alannah. But he doesn’t like the changes he sees in her lately, and by the time he figures out why, it might be too late.

Get yours here.

At the CEO’s Pleasure by Yahrah St. John

At the CEO's Pleasure by Yahrah St. JohnAuthor Yahrah St. John makes her Harlequin Desire debut.

Here’s the story:“What do you want from me?”

“I want you back.”

He’d broken his “no office affair” policy once and lost his best assistant. Now rich businessman Ayden Stewart needs Maya Richardson back…at any price. Taking the job, Maya tells herself the years apart have cooled their chemistry. So why are they breaking rule number one again…and again? Ayden makes her want what she can never have—real love. Will it be different this time?

Get your copy here.

Another  Excerpt from His Until Midnight

His Until Midnight by Reese Ryan is Available Now!

“It’s time for the surprise you gents have been waiting for this evening. Fellas, please welcome our lone bachelorette, Miss Tessa Noble.”

Ryan pulled out his phone. He’d promised Tripp that he’d record his sister’s big debut.

There was a collective gasp in the room as Tessa stepped out onto the stage. Ryan moved away from the bar, so he could get a better view of his friend.

His jaw dropped, and his phone nearly clattered to the ground.

“Tess?” Ryan choked out the word, then silently cursed himself, realizing his stunned reaction would end up on the video. He snapped his gaping mouth shut as he watched her strut across the stage in a glamorous red pantsuit that seemed to be designed for the express purpose of highlighting her killer curves.

Damn, she’s fine.

He wasn’t an idiot. Nor was he blind. So he wasn’t oblivious to the fact that his best friend also happened to be an extremely beautiful woman. And despite her tomboy wardrobe, he was fully aware of the hot body buried beneath relaxed fit clothing. But today…those curves had come out to play.

As if she was a professional runway model, Tess pranced to the end of the stage in strappy, glittery heels, put one hand on her hip and cocked it to the side. She seemed buoyed by the crowd’s raucous reaction.

First there was the collective gasp, followed by a chorus of Oh my Gods. Now the crowd was whooping and shouting.

A slow grin spread across her lips, painted a deep, flirtatious shade of red that made him desperate to taste them. She turned and walked back toward where Rachel stood, revealing a large, heart-shaped cutout that exposed the warm brown skin of her open back. A large bow was tied behind her graceful neck.
Tessa Noble was one gift he’d give just about anything to unwrap.
She was incredibly sexy with a fiercely confident demeanor that only made him hunger for her more.

Ryan surveyed the crowd. He obviously wasn’t the only man in the room drooling over Tessa 2.0. He stared at the large group of men who were wide-eyed, slack-jawed and obviously titillated by the woman on stage.

Tessa’s concerns that no one would bid on her were obviously misplaced. There were even a couple of women who seemed to be drooling over her.

Ryan’s heart thudded. Suddenly, there wasn’t enough air in the tented, outdoor space. He grabbed his auction paddle and crept closer to the stage.

Rachel read Tessa’s bio aloud, as Alexis had done with the bachelors who’d gone before her. Tessa stood tall with her back arched and one hand on her hip. She held her head high as she scanned the room.

Was she looking for him?

Ryan’s cheeks flushed with heat. A dozen emotions percolated in his chest, like some strange, volatile mixture, as he studied his friend on stage. Initially, he wanted to rush the stage and drape his jacket over her shoulders. Block the other men’s lurid stares. Then there was his own guttural reaction to seeing Tess this way. He wanted to devour her. Kiss every inch of the warm, brown skin on her back. Glide his hands over her luscious bottom. Taste those pouty lips.

He swallowed hard, conscious of his rapid breathing. He hoped the video wasn’t picking that up, too.

Get your copy of His Until Midnight today.

New Year Giveaway! Co-Sponsored by Delaney Diamond

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Hello Dear Reader!

I’m celebrating the New Year with a giveaway here on my blog, co-sponsored by the fabulous Delaney Diamond. Delaney was kind enough to take the time to answer a few questions so we could get to know here. Then once you’ve checked out her interview, be sure to check out the excerpt and the details of the giveaway at the end of this post.

Good luck!

Reese Ryan. Colorful characters. Sinfully sweet romance.

 

 

Johnson Family Series by Delaney Diamond

Interview with Delaney Diamond

Delaney, what was the first job you ever had?

The first job I ever had was in elementary school, if you can believe that. My dad worked for a company as a carpenter and mason on the island of St. Thomas where we lived. He also did that work on the side for himself, to make extra money. One of his customers was an older woman who lived on our street, and she needed someone to help her do some typing and filing a few hours a week. I had started taking typing classes when I was 9, so I could already type and was fairly fast. She hired me, lol.  I was maybe 10 or 11 and can’t remember how much I was paid, but it was cool to earn my own money.

What are you currently reading and enjoying?

I’ve been reading a lot of suspense lately, and I’ve become somewhat addicted to Harlan Coben’s writing style. I’m working my way through his backlist, and I’m currently listening to Deal Breaker. It’s another well-paced suspense that’s keeping my attention. On the romance front, I just finished The Senator’s Daughter, a romantic suspense by Amaka Azie. The story is set in Nigeria and the hero kidnaps the heroine. But it’s not a dark romance! He did it for a good cause and is actually a great guy. Rita and Nosa end up falling in love (of course!) and work together to solve the crime. I’ve got to go through my TBR pile to see what I’m in the mood for next.

Favorite romantic movie(s)?

Love Jones is one of my all-time favorites. Also enjoyed Love Actually, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (hilarious movie), The Best Man, and Think Like a Man (Part 1).

If you could only eat one meal every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Ugh, this is tough. It’s a toss up between meatloaf or this lemon butter chicken served with Virgin Islands stuffing  or macaroni and cheese (if dairy didn’t hate me so much).

Is there anything you want to do this year that you’ve never done before?

I’ve always wanted to learn to play the piano, and I’ve been tossing around the idea of taking lessons. But don’t hold me to it because I have no idea how I’ll squeeze lessons into my schedule at this point.

Just Friends (part of the Johnson Family box set) is a friends-to-lovers story. What makes Alannah and Trenton’s friendship so special?

So many reasons! They’ve known each other since they were eight years old and Trenton defended her on the playground, so their bond is tight. They’re best friends and probably know each other better than anyone else does. They eat together all the time, especially since Alannah likes to cook and uses him as her guinea pig—sometimes with disastrous results, lol. They joke around a lot, too. Without giving too much away, they also take care of each other, but tensions arise in the book that test their ability to do that.

What was your favorite scene in Just Friends?

The scene where Alannah cooks Trenton dinner and she’s dancing in the kitchen. He makes fun of her dance moves because she’s a terrible dancer. The scene goes from funny to emotional when Alannah says something that upsets him. That’s when you start to realize just how much she means to him, and you experience the fear that he does when he realizes he might lose her to someone else.

What are your writing goals for 2019?

My goal is to release at least four titles, like I did last year. First up is the second book in the Royal Brides series, Princess of Estoria. I also want to wrap up the Brooks Family series by releasing the last two books (fingers crossed), and I’m working on a series with two other authors, where we each write one of the books in the series. I did that before with the Bennett Triplets, so I’m looking forward to this next collaboration. Optional books (if I have time): another Quicksand novella and the start of my romantic suspense series called Plan B.

The Johnson Family Series by Delaney Diamond

Excerpt

She started dancing to the music. “This is going to be so good,” she sang.

“Please stop,” Trenton said. “You’re the most uncoordinated black woman—no, black person—I know. The only reason you still have your black card is because I bribed a bunch of folks during the appeal process so you could keep it.”

“You’re just jealous of my moves. Bet you can’t do this.” Alannah performed a very awkward moonwalk.

“Michael Jackson is rolling over in his grave right now.” He shook his head. “Sorry, Michael. I tried to stop her.”

She stuck out her tongue and returned her attention to the stove.

Trenton took a seat in one of the high-backed wood barstools at the breakfast bar, in front of a tall glass of lemonade, and watched her work. He licked his lips, mouth watering from the scent of the rib-eye steak.

On occasion, a personal chef cooked his meals whenever he wanted to eat at home and didn’t feel like cooking himself, and he also had the option of going to his mother’s house and eating some fine cooking from Adelina. Yet there was something about Alannah’s food that always tasted that much better and brought him comfort.

She was much better than she used to be. He recalled her failed attempt at making bananas foster.

“What are you smiling about?” she asked. She set a ribeye on a plate in front of him and spooned blue cheese sauce over it. His stomach danced in anticipation.

“Thinking about the time you almost burned down the kitchen trying to make bananas foster.”

She swirled the sauce around the plate. “What a mess. I can’t believe the towel caught fire like that.”

Trenton chuckled. “Be glad it wasn’t worse.”

She joined him in the laughter, but kept her eyes on the plate, concentrating on the artistry of the dish. “I am glad, believe me.”

“Even with that mess and the panic, the bananas turned out delicious,” he pointed out.

“They did, didn’t they? I should try that recipe again. I’ve been too nervous to attempt it because of the near accident.”

“I’m sure your flambé skills will be much better now.”

Alannah spooned roasted potatoes beside the steak. “Then, of course, there was The Great Quiche Incident of ’09.”

Trenton groaned.

“I can’t believe you ate so much of it and didn’t say anything.” Alannah shook her head in disbelief. “I gagged once I tasted it myself.”

“I didn’t want to hurt your feelings, but man, that was some nasty stuff.”

“You really took one for the team, and I appreciate it. Thank goodness for The Best Thai Restaurant.” She spooned creamed spinach beside the steak and used a paper napkin to swipe the circumference of the plate for a cleaner look. She finished by dropping chopped parsley onto the potatoes as a garnish.

“Oh yeah, that was the first time we ate there.” With dinner a bust, they’d driven to the restaurant to get something to eat and had been loyal customers ever since.

Alannah cut into the steak. She twisted it in the blue cheese sauce and then blew on it. “Tell me what you think of this.” She lifted the fork to his mouth.

Trenton leaned in, pulled off the meat, and chewed. Well seasoned and cooked to a perfect medium rare. Delicious. “Mmm…that’s good.”

She pumped a fist. “Yes! You really like it?”

“Mhmm.” He yanked away the fork and knife. She giggled as he cut another piece of meat. “I can’t believe how good this is.” The creamed spinach and roasted potatoes tasted perfect, as well. He could have been dining in a fine restaurant. “This is better than your steak and mushroom gravy.”

“No way. You love that dish. You rave about it for days every time I make it.”

“I know, you don’t make it enough,” Trenton said around a mouthful of food, enjoying the dish too much to stop eating long enough not to talk with his mouth full. He pointed at the plate with the fork. “But seriously, I’m saying this is even better, so you know it’s good.”

“Great,” Alannah said with satisfaction. She skipped back to the stove. “This is good practice, because I’m serving it to my new guy friend for dinner on Friday night.”

A piece of meat lodged in Trenton’s throat. With difficulty, he swallowed it and then took a big gulp of lemonade. He cleared his throat. “You’re cooking for him now?”

Boxset buy links

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Johnson-Family-limited-box-set-ebook/dp/B07F65TTWQ

B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/johnson-family-series-delaney-diamond/1128985939?ean=2940162108061

Apple: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/johnson-family-series-limited-edition-box-set/id1405817142?1000ldsT

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Delaney_Diamond_Johnson_Family_series_limited_edit?id=HIhiDwAAQBAJ&PAffiliateID=1011lwN2

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/johnson-family-series-limited-edition-box-set

 

Author bio

Delaney Diamond is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sweet, sensual, passionate romance novels, born and raised in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She reads romance novels, mysteries, thrillers, and a fair amount of nonfiction. When she’s not busy reading or writing, she’s in the kitchen trying out new recipes, dining at one of her favorite restaurants, or traveling to an interesting locale. To get sneak peeks, notices of sale prices, and find out about new releases, visit her website and join her mailing list. Enjoy free reads and the first chapter of all her novels at www.delaneydiamond.com.

Where she can be found online

Website: https://www.delaneydiamond.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DelaneyDiamond

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DelaneyDiamond

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/delaneydiamond

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authordelaneydiamond

Enter the Giveaway

Visit Delaney’s book page and complete the form below with the name of one of her series and a title from that series.

Form Link: https://goo.gl/forms/vXmOzb3MrxsE78wK2

About the Contest:

  • 1st place: $25 gift card and reader’s choice of an ebook from each of our backlists.
  • 2nd place: Reader’s choice of an ebook from each of our backlists.
  • Eligibility: Open to U.S. and international readers.
  • Deadline to enter: January 13, 2019 at 11:59 PM EST

Reese Ryan Recommended Reads: Safe with Me & Secrets of a (Somewhat) Sunny Girl

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Happy Friday, Dear Readers!

Are the temperatures dropping in your part of the world? I’m shivering here in Central North Carolina. On cool autumns evenings, I love cozying up in front of the fireplace with a good book. Maybe you do, too.

If you’re looking for something new and different to read, here are a few contenders:

About Safe With Me (Falling for a Rose Book 1)

Safe with Me by Stephanie Nicole NorrisSmall business owner and financial advisor, Samiyah Manhattan is mourning the death of her six-year marriage when she vows never to trust men again. Alone at a local bar, Samiyah attempts to put her situation in perspective when she is drawn inexorably to the presence of a nearby patron.Celebrity ex-boxer and heavyweight champion turned business mogul, Jonas Alexander Rose never takes women too seriously. They only attach themselves to him because of his star-studded status. However, when he meets the beautiful Samiyah Manhattan mulling over a mimosa at his favorite bar and grill, Jonas is overwhelmed by the heart throbbing heated attraction, and now he is on a mission to explore this thing called love. But can Jonas break the barrier that Samiyah’s put up and is he even ready? Find out if Jonas and Samiyah are a match made in heaven or if they will miss out on their happily ever after in Safe With Me. Book one in the Falling For A Rose Series.

Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B072KX6L1N/

Available on Amazon Kindle Unlimited

 

Secrets of a (Somewhat) Sunny Girl by Karen Booth

As sisters, they tell each other all their secrets…except one.

Secrets of a (Somewhat) Sunny Girl
With divorce and infidelity hanging from nearly every branch of her family tree, Katherine Fuller sees no point in marriage. Boyfriends? Sure. Sex? Of course. Wedding vows? No, thanks. Still, when her younger sister Amy gets engaged, Katherine gathers all the enthusiasm she can. She won’t let Amy down. She’s done enough of that for a lifetime.As the sisters embark on wedding plans, Katherine’s college love resurfaces. It nearly killed Katherine to part from sexy Irish musician Eamon more than a decade ago, but falling under his spell a second time forces her to confront everything she hid from him. The secrets surrounding her mother’s death are still fresh and raw in her mind, but one has haunted her more than the others. She can’t bear to tell anyone, especially not Amy. It could ruin far more than a wedding. It could destroy a sister’s love forever.Get your copy here: http://books2read.com/u/mlepQP.

 

A Fun Excerpt from The Billionaire’s Legacy

 

“What names have you considered?”

She was quiet for a moment. “For her? Scarlett.”

“As in O’Hara?”

“As in Johansson.”

Benji nodded thoughtfully. “I do like a woman who can play a badass Marvel superhero. What else you got?”

“Vivian.”

“As in Leigh?”

“No, as in Julia Roberts’ character in Pretty Woman.” Sloane grinned. “Do we need to talk about your obsession with Gone with the Wind?”

“It’s my mom’s favorite movie.” Benji shrugged, frowning at the mention of his mother. “And do I need to spell out the reasons I’m diametrically opposed to naming my daughter after a character that was a prostitute?”

“Hey, sex workers are people, too.” Sloane poked his bicep. “But point taken. What about Bailey?”

“I love the name Bailey for a girl.” He nodded. “Let’s stick a pin in that one. And for Little Dude?” He gave her a sarcastic grin.

“Phillip, Beau or maybe Benjamin.” Sloane looked straight ahead, but her cheeks warmed as Benji looked over at her briefly before returning his eyes to the road.

“I’m honored that you’d propose making him a junior. But I’ve never liked the idea of putting additional pressure on a boy to be like his father. I want our kids to do or be anything they want. And I’m grateful they’ll have the resources to do that.”

“Me, too.” She glanced over at him, realizing for the first time how grateful she was that her children would never strugglelike she and her mother did.

He squeezed her hand and gave her a warm smile before putting his hand back on the wheel and changing lanes. “I like Beau. It goes nicely with Bailey, don’t you think?”

“Beau and Bailey.” She repeated the names softly. “What do you think, Little Dude and Buttercup? Do you think you can deal with Beau and Bailey? Think carefully before you answer. You’re going to have those names your entire lives. Unless you become actors or strippers.” When Benji’s eyes widened, she laughed. “Relax, I’m kidding.”

He sighed, shaking his head. “If your way of cheering me up is supposing that our daughter might become a stripper, I’m gonna need you to work on your cheering-up game.”

“Who said I was talking about her? I could’ve been referring to him. Just think, our son could grow up to be the next Magic Mike.”

“If you weren’t carrying Beau and Bailey, I’d put you out on the side of the highway and make you walk the rest of the way to Magnolia Lake.” He laughed.

Both the babies moved.

“They just responded to the sound of your voice,” she told Benji, then spoke again, projecting her voice down toward her belly as she placed her hands on either side of it. “Does that mean you two like your names?” When there was no movement, she told Benji, “Say their names again.”

“Beau and Bailey, this is your father. You two okay in there?”

Beau seemed to stretch his legs and Bailey responded by doing the same.

“I think we have a winner.” Sloane rubbed her hand in a circle over the babies, her heart full and her eyes stinging with tears.

Get your copy of The Billionaire’s Legacy today.

THE BILLIONAIRE’S LEGACY Release Day + Desire Authors October Release Party

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Happy Monday, Dear Readers!

Finally, it’s release day for The Billionaire’s Legacy. I am so excited for you to read this story.
The Billionaire's Legacy by Reese Ryan

It was fun writing the banter between this couple, and Sloane is one of my favorite heroines that I’ve written to date. She’s strong, independent and funny with a good dose of Southern sass.

I loved watching Sloane & Benji fall in love as they navigated complicated family relationships and learned to care for their adorable twins Beau & Bailey.

Pick up your copy of The Billionaire’s Legacy today here or at your favorite retailer, then join me and five other Harlequin Desire authors for our October release party on the Harlequin Desire Author Facebook page later today from 5-8 PM Eastern. More on that in a sec! But first, here’s what reviewers are saying about The Billionaire’s Legacy:

“A wedding reception reunites a billionaire with his childhood crush in this captivating contemporary… With clever insight, vulnerability, and touching honesty, Ryan (Savannah’s Secrets) explores this couple’s hang-ups about family, trust, and intimacy.”
~Publisher’s Weekly

“Ryan hits it out of the park with this compelling addition to the Billionaires and Babies series… Readers will avidly follow the twists, turns, and domestic drama that conspire to spoil the future happiness of these unintentional parents.”
~Booklist

“Ryan was able to put a refreshing spin on the billionaire trope and I loved it so much! Benji and Sloane had been friends since childhood. Sloane is his older sisters best friend and I loved that spin on the story as well.”
~Shelly’s Book Corner

Grab your copy of the book here. Need more convincing? Scroll below for an excerpt. 😉

***Six Authors, Six New Releases, Lots of Fun & Giveaways!***

Harlequin Desire Facebook Party on October 1st from 5-8 PM

Join me, Jules Bennett, Joss Wood, Maureen Child, Andrea Laurence and Katherine Garbera today on Facebook from 5-8 PM Eastern. There will be author chats, reader fun, and LOTS of giveaways. So be sure to join us.

To participate, simply join the Harlequin Desire Authors Facebook page now so you won’t miss a thing: http://bit.ly/desireauthors. Then stay tuned for fun posts and giveaways from all of us in celebration of our October book releases.

Can’t be there at 5-8 PM Eastern? No worries! Pop in whenever you can. We’re going to leave all contests open for at least 24 hours to give you plentyof time to enter the reader giveaway contests.

Please note: Contest is open to international readers, but physical items will only be sent to mailing addresses within the United States unless otherwise specified.

See you there!

A Steamy Excerpt from the Billionaire’s Legacy

The Billionaire's Legacy by Reese Ryan

He swallowed her gasp in response to the sudden move, kissing her harder. Losing himself in the clash of lips and tongue and the delicious sensation of their bodies moving against each other, desperate for more contact than their clothing would permit.

He savored her intoxicating scent and relished the feel of her full breasts with their hardened peaks pressed against his chest.

She glided her fingertips down his stomach and fumbled with his belt buckle, loosening it.

“You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting for this,” he whispered, his lips brushing her ear.

Sloane’s hands froze. Her eyes opened and her gaze had shifted from one of intense desire to one of regret.

“Hey, beautiful.” Benji traced her cheekbone with his thumb. “Did I say something wrong?”

“I shouldn’t have come here, and we shouldn’t be doing this.” She lowered her gaze.

He was seconds away from making his boyhood fantasy a reality and he’d blown it, because he couldn’t keep his stupid mouth shut.

Way to go, Benj.

“Why not?” He spoke calmly, trying to put her at ease. “We’re consenting adults.”

“I’ve known you since you were five. You’re my best friend’s little brother. I’ve introduced you as my little brother.” She shook her head, her eyes still not meeting his. “This is bad. What would Delia say? And what would your parents think?”

“My mother will never believe anyone is good enough, and my sister adores you.” Benji dropped a slow, lingering kiss on her lips.

“Because I’m her friend, who she trusts not to blow into town and screw her little brother.” She jabbed him in the gut, but her lips parted to his tongue when he kissed her again.

“You’re too young for me, Benji,” she whispered against his lips as he slid the silky, blue material down her shoulder.

He kissed the shell of her ear. “Five years mattered then. It doesn’t now.”

“I’m not looking for a relationship, Benj.” She pressed her hands to his chest, halting his movement as her gaze met his. Still, she hadn’t moved an inch. Her legs framed his as she awaited his response.

“Neither am I,” he said finally. “That doesn’t mean we can’t be together. I want you, Sloane. And I know you want me, too.” He slowly tugged the zipper down her back. The silky, cobalt blue material slid from her shoulders, giving him better access. He trailed kisses down her shoulder and across the top of her breasts, exposed by a pale pink strapless bra. “Just for tonight.”

She sucked in a deep breath and let the material slip down her arms and pool around her waist. Sloane unbuttoned his pants and inched the zipper down. The sound echoed off the solid oak floors and shiplap walls. She leaned in to kiss him. “Just for tonight.”

Get your copy of The Billionaire’s Legacy today.