Hard Rock and Havarti by Trinity Wood

 

 

🎸 Hard Rock & Havarti a Rockstar Romance by Trinity Wood is coming 03.04  🎸 

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Release Date: March 04

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US | UK | CA | AU

Coming to Kindle Unlimited

 🎸 Blurb 🎸 

He ran from fame.

She built her life on staying true.

Neither expected love to find them in a quiet coastal town.

Jamie Dawson was once known as James Daze, a rock star whose life fell apart after a scandal he did not commit. Now he is hiding in a small New Zealand seaside town, managing a local delicatessen and trying to rebuild a life that feels real again.

Annika van der Meer believes in honesty, hard work, and good cheese. As part of her family’s Dutch cheesemaking business, she has learned that the best things take time and that trusting the wrong person can cost you everything.

When Jamie becomes one of her newest clients, an unexpected friendship grows through early morning deliveries, quiet conversations, and a connection neither of them was looking for.

But when Jamie’s past finally catches up with him, Annika must decide whether love can survive secrets and whether the man she has come to care for is brave enough to stop running.

Hard Rock and Havarti is a closed-door slow-burn romance about second chances, small-town kindness, and finding home in the most unexpected places.

Perfect for readers who love gentle chemistry, emotional connection, and happily ever afters that focus on the heart.

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Hide and Seek (A Titan Protectors Novel, #1) Author: Cristin Harber

 

Title: Hide and Seek (A Titan Protectors Novel, #1) Author: Cristin Harber Genre: Military Romance/Small Town Romance Release Date: February 17, 2026 Hosted by: Buoni Amici Press, LLC.

He’s a protector with nothing left to lose. She’s a survivor with everything to fear. Together, they’re a target.

Callum Hale doesn’t do second chances. A former Army Ranger cast out for breaking orders, he’s built his new life protecting clients who can’t protect themselves. But when he’s assigned to Grace Willoughby—a quiet illustrator hiding from the abusive ex-husband who refuses to let her go—Callum’s ironclad control fractures. Protecting her isn’t just a mission. It’s personal.

Grace has rebuilt her life from the ashes, but safety has always been an illusion. The closer she gets to Callum, her older brother's best friend, the more she realizes he’s not just a shield against her past—he’s the first man she dares to trust. And the one man she can’t afford to lose.

When a brutal abduction shatters their fragile peace, Callum races against the clock to track Grace’s captors. Enemies circle closer, secrets inside Titan threaten to explode, and Callum must decide how much of his heart he’s willing to risk. Because falling for Grace may be the one line of duty that costs them both everything.

Perfect for fans of military romance, this pulse-pounding romantic suspense launches Cristin Harber’s brand-new Titan Protectors series—where loyalty is unbreakable, love is dangerous, and trust is the ultimate risk.

AMAZON | APPLE BOOKS | NOOK | KOBO

Hide and Seek by Cristin Harber

HIDE AND SEEK Titan Protectors Series, Book #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Cristin Harber Prologue Twelve Years Ago Two men whom Grace Willoughby had known her entire life watched her and her boyfriend with undisguised scrutiny. Of course they did. Her brother, Hayden, and his best friend, Callum, had never treated her like anything other than a kid. Now that she lived on her own and had returned home with a boyfriend for her family to meet, both were making this family dinner more awkward than it already was. Her boyfriend, Dominic Marino, sat at the outdoor table on her parents’ back deck. Despite the fact that Dominic had insisted on meeting her parents, it was clear he didn’t want to be there. If she were honest, their relationship was too new. It’d only been weeks since he’d swept her off her feet. Far too soon for family introductions, but Dominic always got his way. She tried to ignore the small stirrings of doubt and found herself staring at Callum. She quickly jerked her gaze away. Callum Hale. Broad shoulders. Powerful long legs. He wasn’t family, though he acted like it and probably believed it to be true as he sat next to Hayden and shot the shit with her dad. She hadn’t seen Callum since he and Hayden had graduated from Army Ranger School. His stormy eyes melted her insides, and when he turned his bourbon-brown gaze on her, she wanted to drag him to bed. So she did what she did best: ran her mouth and rolled her eyes and tried her damnedest to treat Callum like Hayden. It might have worked to the outside world but didn’t change the stupid-level of arousal that coursed through her veins when he smiled. Her backup plan was to ignore him. Ignoring him was a talent she’d mastered over the years, because there was only so much world-class sass she could spew before her sarcastic well was depleted. If she wasn’t able to shield herself from Callum, her insides turned into a gooey, upside-down tornado. That would have been a terrible problem to have while standing next to her actual boyfriend. And her actual boyfriend was a verifiable catch. Handsome: Check. Wealthy: Double check. Polite—erm, well, half-check. He gave excellent interviews, had topped more than his fair share of famous people lists of the likes of Forbes, Inc., and Bloomberg, and once had paparazzi in speedboats follow his yacht while he partied with nepo babies and Los Angeles royalty. How could she compare Dominic to Callum, who literally never noticed that she had grown up from the kid next door to a woman with a figure that wasn’t all that bad? Nice curves and a pretty smile, if she said so herself. But nope. Not even so much as a second glance. That was probably good, because if he had given her a fraction of a thought, he would have noticed that she’d pined after him from the moment she’d noticed boys. Irony of all ironies, he noticed her now. Or rather, he was noticing her sitting on a two-person bench with Dominic. His steely eyes had tracked Dominic since the moment Callum eased into his chair, longneck beer sweating in hand, frowning in a way that said he clearly didn’t trust her boyfriend. That was fine. Callum didn’t have to trust Dominic. Dominic didn’t seem to notice Callum. He wasn’t fazed by the uncomfortable small talk or broiling summer heat. In expensive khaki pants and a polo shirt, she wondered how he could look so cool and detached. Hayden and Callum wore boardshorts and T-shirts and looked like they might walk to the neighborhood pool after burgers and beers. She ignored them and focused on her boyfriend. “Do you want something cold to drink?” Dominic’s flashy smile was one more layer of his put-together persona. Dark hair. Dark eyes. Killer smile. “I’m fine, darling.” Darling. Was she a darling? It wasn’t the first time she’d asked herself that question. Darling always sounded like he was speaking to someone else. Just as “Mrs. Willoughby” would always be her stepmother, “darling” would be someone else. Someone more blue-blooded or pretentious. Someone who wore pearls and sweater sets. Someone who looked like they should be on Dominic Marino’s arm. The nickname would take getting used to. All new things had a breaking-in period. Her dad returned to the deck with a tray of burgers for the grill. “These shouldn’t take long. Hope everyone is hungry.” She was starving. Between the time zone change and flying into a private airport, she hadn’t grabbed a meal all day. The flights were supposed to have been catered, but as best she could tell, that meant champagne, liquor, and charcuterie boards. After more than a few olives and fancy deli slices, she agreed with Dominic that she’d eaten several days’ worth of calories. She had still been hungry, but the flight attendant cleared the tray at Dominic’s request. She wanted to disagree, but her boyfriend had a weird way of finagling her agreement. Manipulating? No, that didn’t sound right, but Grace could never pinpoint how it happened. “Hayden says you work in finance,” Callum said. “I do.” Dominic’s lips curved into that effortless smile he used in board meetings and when schmoozing clients. “Crypto. Bitcoin. I specialize in blockchain technology.” “That’s, like, pretend money, right?” Distrust tightened in the corners of Callum’s eyes. He tilted his head toward her brother. “Everything in Las Vegas is fake.” Hayden’s gaze narrowed as well. “Think so.” Dominic didn’t spend all his time in Las Vegas. She wished she hadn’t told Hayden and Callum that they were flying in from there. It raised too many questions about where Dominic lived. Las Vegas. New York. Miami. Washington, DC. Dominic chuckled good-naturedly, as if Hayden and Callum weren’t acting like overprotective buffoons. “The business opportunities in Las Vegas are as real as the money in my bank account.” Hayden snorted, Callum rolled his eyes, and Grace blushed. Talking about money like that was crass. Then again, it was his money that had been whirling her around the country, gifting her with over-the-top bouquets of flowers, dining her with unbelievable meals. She literally couldn’t catch her breath under the weight of his attention. Who was she to judge when Dominic was lavishing her with attention in a way she hadn’t known was possible? Her stepmother shot a warning glance at Hayden and Callum. “That sounds exciting. Don’t mind them.” Dominic hooted as though they were all in on a funny conversation. The hint of his thinly veiled condescension echoed with his laughter. If she heard it, Hayden and Callum did as well. Her stepmom, who always saw the best in people, probably didn’t. “No, it’s fine,” Dominic said. “Digital assets are a complex market. Hard to understand. Takes a lot of understanding. Not for everyone.” Her stomach churned. Dominic’s snarky side comments wouldn’t help everyone get along. Wasn’t that what she had wanted? For everyone to get along? For her family to be swept off their feet by Dominic as she had? Yes? Yes. That was why they were here. She should have known it had been too early for him to meet her parents. Much less Hayden and Callum. She’d never brought a guy home before, and the timing of Hayden and Callum’s leave from base was unfortunate. Wait—what? She never wanted to miss a chance to see her brother and Callum, and nearly exploded from excitement that Callum—that both of them—would be home. Callum is only a family friend, she reminded herself. She’d let go of her dreams of him years ago, and Dominic had treated her like a precious possession since the moment he’d swooped into her life. She’d never had to fight for Dominic’s attention. Never second-guessed what his intentions were. Dominic cared about her, wanted a future with her. Why shouldn’t they all meet? “The thing you have to understand is,” Dominic continued, “the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward.” He wrapped his arm over her shoulder and secured her close with a possessive hold. “It will definitely provide for a great life.” The churning in her stomach intensified. Her family never shied away from public displays of affection. Dad and Mari snuggled, held hands, and did everything in their power to be near one another when lounging around the house. Theirs was a comfortable love. Terrific role models. Dominic’s hold on her now wasn’t comfortable. His arm around her shoulder was more a message to her brother and Callum than anything indicative of their relationship. She wanted to inch away. She needed breathing room. But Dominic didn’t do breathing room. He’d barely let her catch her breath since they first met. Las Vegas and New York City. Fancy dinners and shopping. A declaration of love on their third date. Her boyfriend drove fast cars, owned a private plane, and lived life to its fullest. Now she was, too. Callum’s face tightened. The muscles in his jaw twitched. He glared at Dominic’s hold. “How long did you say you’ve been dating?” “A few weeks,” she managed. “That’s pretty fast.” He took a pull from his longneck without taking his eyes off of her. “Why waste time when it’s the right woman?” Dominic asked. She blushed again and couldn’t hide her smile. This gorgeous man adored her. He’d offered her the world. Everything had been so right, so absolutely overwhelmingly amazing, that she couldn’t see how it could go wrong. Hayden grunted his skepticism. “Come on, boys, give the kids a break.” Dad flipped burgers on the grill. “We’re glad the timing worked so that everyone was here at once.” Kids. Dominic was the same age as Grace. With a three-year age gap from Hayden and Callum, she would always be the youngest in her family. Three years might well have been a decade. Dominic’s important job and flashy lifestyle wouldn’t change that. Her stepmom stepped outside with a bowl of potato salad. “Hayden, grab the watermelon from the counter.” Callum took the bowl from her and set it on the table. “What else do you need help with?” Flames licked from the grill as Dad shoveled the burgers onto buns. “Gracie, hold out the tray.” She pulled away from Dominic and stepped next to her father. Heat radiated from the grill. Still, it was nice not to be pressed against someone in the summer swelter. Everyone helped set the table except for Dominic. He was a guest, though, and new to their dynamic. Not that they were waiting on him, but more that he didn’t know how to lend a hand. Callum and Hayden sat in their usual seats. Her stepmom topped off drinks and then joined them. Grace returned to her place next to Dominic. Her dad circled the table, dishing out burgers. “Which one do you want, Gracie?” Mouth watering, she eyed the one with extra cheese melting out the side. “That little one looks good,” Dominic suggested. “Oh, that little guy is the one we make for Sprout.” Dad gestured to the old dog sleeping under the table. “That’s not even half—” “It’s fine, Dad. That’s good for me. There’s more than enough for you to halve a burger for Sprout when we’re done.” Dad frowned. His spatula-wielding hand hovered. “Well, uh…” He scooped up the comically small burger with the bun tipped off the side. “Sure. You can always have seconds.” She didn’t have to look up to see Callum and Hayden scrutinizing her burger selection. Dinner went downhill from there. Finally, the night wrapped. When they were alone, she’d explain to Dominic how he made her and her family uncomfortable. She’d point out a few things that would make their next family get-together run more smoothly. Grace offered awkward goodbyes to her dad and stepmom, ignored Hayden and Callum, and, hand in hand, let Dominic escort her to his BMW. His firm grip was the slightest bit too tight, and he shut her inside the fancy car with a hint of too much force. All she had to do was ask him to relax. Maybe her unflappable boyfriend had felt ganged up on. Hayden and Callum certainly hadn’t made dinner a relaxing time. Then again, Dominic had been combative with subtle condescension and a few straightforward jabs. Dominic rounded the hood. His brooding dark eyes and set jaw made her nerves bubble. Grace looked toward the childhood home that always made her feel happy and carefree. Until tonight. Callum watched from the porch. His thick arms were crossed, and his scrutinizing glare followed Dominic. Then his gaze dropped to hers. Her stomach plummeted. Every concern that she tried to ignore was lit up on his face like a billboard in Las Vegas. His angry frown pulled down so far that she worried he would come down to the BMW. But he didn’t. Besides, she didn’t need him to. She was more than capable of having a private conversation with her boyfriend. Dominic needed to ease up. She had a voice, and she’d never been scared to use it before. Dominic closed the door and turned on the engine. Warm air blasted over her, and the music kicked on. His irritation flooded the car. He slapped at the controls, as if changing the settings would immediately blast cool air on a ninety-degree day. Grace squirmed in her seat as the air conditioning barely cooled the car. Sweat prickled on the back of her neck. Callum still watched from the porch. “I just thought today would be…” “Would be what?” Dominic snapped. She inched away and leaned against the door. “Different.” Her tongue pressed to the roof of her mouth as she combed through the most important issues to bring up. “I can pick my cheeseburger out.” “You didn’t go back for seconds, so it must have been the right burger to fill you up.” She hadn’t because Dominic, Callum, Hayden, and her dad—probably her stepmom too—were watching what Grace ate. She’d wanted another burger but had loaded up on sides instead. “That doesn’t matter. Don’t pick out my food for me.” He let out a long breath and pinched the bridge of his nose, and after another long breath, he turned and took her hand. This time, his handhold was gentler than any time he’d touched her all day. “I’m sorry, darling. I was overheated. I just want you to be happy and healthy and to take care of yourself.” She was happy and healthy and tried to understand what he meant. So…he was looking after her? Sort of. But choosing her burger wasn’t her only issue with the day, and she didn’t understand how this perfect gentleman, this well-spoken business executive, had been so rude and arrogant. “Grace, I’m sorry.” He released the tender hold on her hand and reached into the center console. “I got you a little something. I planned to give it to you later tonight, but I can’t stand to see you upset.” She eyed the small blue box that she now recognized as being from his favorite jewelry store in New York City and wanted to say she wouldn’t need a present now if he’d been kinder to everyone. Actually, she didn’t need presents. At all. Period. Warmth radiated from his eyes and into his smile. This was the Dominic she knew and loved. Still, she hesitated. “Open it, Grace.” She lifted the top. A keychain wasn’t what she expected. Not that she expected anything. “What is this?” “What does it look like?” Grace lifted it from the box. The metal keychain was heavier than any she’d had before, and if she had to guess, it was real silver or white gold. Her eyebrows lifted. “I know it’s a keychain, but—” Dominic held out a key. “For you.” An empty feeling pitted at the bottom of her stomach. She swallowed hard and looked from the key to him. His smile was almost nervous, almost shy, but it was the excitement in his eyes that won her over. Dominic, her macho boyfriend who commanded boardrooms and made million-dollar deals, was insecure and hopeful. Okay, that was sweet. “You’re giving me a key to your condo?” “I’d like to call it our condo.” She had hardly set foot in her apartment since the day they’d met. Everything was happening so fast. She blinked, trying to get a handle on the way he’d acted earlier. They’d been dating for weeks. That was all. Not to mention, she liked her own place. It was nowhere near as nice as his polished properties, but it was her own space. Grace gnawed on her bottom lip. Was he asking her to move in with him? Or was it just a key? It had to be just a key. Still, she hesitated. “I don’t know.” “Grace, I’m sorry tonight didn’t go the way you imagined.” He brushed his knuckles over her cheek. “But I wanted to meet your parents before I gave you this.” She met his dark eyes. They twinkled as if this was something he needed. Almost like a challenge—no, that didn’t make sense. Almost like he was scared she’d say no. The corners of his lips lifted. Dominic clasped his key in her palm and closed her fingers around it, then brought her hand to his mouth, pressing it with the softest kiss. “I love you, Grace.” Her apprehension melted away. How could she doubt a man who saw their future together? He was stable, secure, and he would treat her like she was precious. “I love you too.” “My lawyers will handle your lease. We’ll have movers bring over whatever you want to keep. Simple.” Wait. He was asking her to move in with him. Alarm bells sounded. “You’re the love of my life.” He glanced over her shoulder. Callum was probably still standing there, watching. “Tell me you know that.” “I know that.” “That you’ll never break my heart.” “Of course I won’t.” They were moving in together. A luxury condo. Maid service. Rooftop pool and gym. Concierge and doorman. It was safer than her apartment. It was the next step. Grace forced herself to ignore Callum Hale as Dominic drove them toward her unexpected future.

ABOUT CRISTIN:

New York Times bestselling author Cristin Harber packs her military romance, romantic suspense, and new adult romance novels with steam, sizzle, and action of all types. Whether you want fireworks in the bedroom or a hunky ex-military team that saves the day, her bestselling romance novels will make you swoon and smile.

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I Made it Home

 

 

Children's Book

Date Published: December 6, 2025

I Made It Home is a heartwarming story that captures the essence of courage, kindness, and friends who flutter into our lives when we need them most. When a change of plans leaves young Aubrey finding her own way home, she embarks on an unexpected adventure with her cheerful companions, a butterfly, a bluebird, and a ladybug. Sometimes the smallest friends lead us the furthest. Along the way, she and a frightened little boy learn valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the magic of kindness. This enchanting tale will delight readers of all ages and remind them that every kind gesture brings us closer to where we belong.

 

About the Author

 

 Debra I. Thomas shares her excitement about her children's picture books, hoping they will inspire joy and adventure in young readers. She is also working on more imaginative stories that reflect her love for children and pets, inviting readers to explore the magic of storytelling together.

 

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Rhythm and Design

 

Rhythm and Design
Long Temple
(The Rhythm and Design Series, #1)
Publication date: May 18th 2025
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

A soulful architect. A gospel-rooted musician. A love built to last.
Rhythm and Design: A Platinum Chocolate Romance is a powerful story of purpose, passion, and divine timing.

Claire Baldwin is used to building beauty from structure—dreaming in blueprints, raised among silver spoons and Ivy League expectations. Focused, brilliant, and untouchable, love was never part of the plan. Until one almost-mistake in her youth taught her the price of giving too much to someone who offered too little.

Oliver Jamison Graham, the son of a revered pastor, walked away from the pulpit and into the chaos of the music industry. Between neon stages and lonely hotel rooms, he searched for something sacred—something real. Music filled his nights, but his faith kept whispering him home.

When Claire and Oliver’s paths collide again, it isn’t just chemistry—it’s destiny. But building a life together means facing the unspoken: the pasts they’ve tucked away, the faith they’re still figuring out, and the families who’ve prayed them into purpose.

Together, they’ll navigate ambition, intimacy, trust, and spiritual alignment in a romance steeped in grace, humor, and honest love. Can two people from different rhythms create a design strong enough to stand?

If you love later-in-life second chances, clean-but-steamy romance, emotional depth, and characters who wrestle with faith as fiercely as they fall in love—Rhythm and Design will leave you breathless and blessed.

Goodreads / Amazon

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EXCERPT

Claire adjusted the delicate strap of her silver gown, her fingers brushing the smooth satin as laughter and music drifted through the warm summer air. The garden shimmered beneath strands of soft white lights, each glow reflecting off crystal glasses and polished silver like tiny promises suspended in time.

Tonight was meant to be simple — a celebration, a farewell, a graceful closing of one chapter before she stepped into the life she had so carefully designed.

But life, she was learning, rarely followed clean lines.

She felt it before she saw him — a subtle shift in the atmosphere, like the hush that falls just before the first note of a song.

Oliver Graham stood near the stage, tall and steady, dressed in black that seemed to absorb the light around him. He carried himself with an ease that wasn’t practiced, just lived — the quiet confidence of a man who had known both applause and solitude, who understood the weight of purpose even in celebration.

Claire’s breath caught, surprising her.

It had been years, yet something about him felt familiar, like a melody she’d heard long ago but never fully released.

As if sensing her gaze, Oliver turned. Their eyes met across the veranda, and the world seemed to narrow to that single moment — music fading, conversations dissolving into a distant hum.

He didn’t smile right away. He simply looked at her, as though taking in the woman she had become, measuring something deeper than appearance.

Then came the slow curve of a knowing smile.

Heat crept up Claire’s neck, and she looked away, steadying herself with a sip of champagne that suddenly felt warmer than it should.

Moments later, his voice — smooth and rich — settled beside her like velvet.

“You’ve grown into everything they said you would,” he said softly. “Your parents couldn’t stop talking about you. Yale. Full scholarship. Future architect of the century.”

Claire laughed lightly, surprised by the warmth in his tone. “They said all that?”

“They should’ve said more,” he replied. “Yale’s lucky to have you.”

Something in her chest softened — a quiet recognition she hadn’t expected, like a door opening somewhere deep within her carefully guarded heart.

The music shifted, laughter swelling around them, but Claire felt as though she were standing inside a pocket of stillness.

“And you?” she asked. “Still changing the world one song at a time?”

Oliver smiled, a hint of humility softening his features. “Trying to. Mostly just trying to stay honest.”

Honest. The word lingered between them like a promise neither had spoken aloud.

When Oliver later stepped onto the stage, the crowd quieted instinctively, drawn to the calm gravity he carried. He adjusted the microphone, glanced toward Claire, and said, “I wrote this for tonight. It’s called Beyond the Horizon.”

The first notes drifted into the night like a prayer — tender guitar, soft percussion, a melody that seemed to breathe with its own quiet life.

Claire stood still as the lyrics wrapped around her, each word reflecting pieces of her journey — the late nights bent over drafting tables, the silent prayers whispered into the dark when doubt tried to settle in, the relentless pull toward something greater than comfort.

The road is wide, but your steps are sure, drawn to purpose, built to endure…

Her fingers tightened slightly around her glass as emotion rose unexpectedly, catching in her throat. She had spent so many years building strength, focusing forward, refusing distraction — yet here she was, undone by a song that seemed to see her more clearly than she saw herself.

Oliver’s voice carried warmth and depth, every note grounded in sincerity. When their eyes met mid-song, something unspoken passed between them — not a spark, but a steady flame, quiet and certain.

By the final note, silence lingered for a breath before applause rose like a wave across the garden. Claire barely heard it. Her hand rested lightly against her chest, as if holding something fragile and new.

Later, when the music shifted into a softer groove and guests drifted toward the dance floor, Oliver found her again near the edge of the veranda.

“You okay?” he asked gently.

Claire nodded, a small smile touching her lips. “I am now.”

They stood close, not touching, yet aware of each other in a way that felt both new and strangely familiar.

“I’m heading to New Haven tomorrow,” she said quietly. “Three weeks early. I want time to settle in… start fresh.”

Oliver’s expression softened, admiration flickering in his eyes. “That sounds exactly like you. Always building the next chapter before anyone else even sees the blueprint.”

She laughed softly. “You expected anything less?”

“Not a chance,” he said. “You’re building your future with intention. That’s rare.”

The music swelled around them, couples swaying beneath the lights, laughter rising into the warm night air.

For a moment, neither spoke. The silence wasn’t awkward — it felt full, like a pause meant to be savored.

“Don’t disappear on me,” Oliver said finally, a hint of playfulness in his tone.

Claire raised an eyebrow. “I’m going to Yale, not Mars.”

He laughed, then handed her his phone. “Still. Just in case I feel like sending musical inspiration.”

She entered her number, her fingers brushing his briefly, a small spark of awareness passing between them.

As he stepped back into the crowd, Claire watched him go, the night humming with possibility.

For the first time since she began mapping out her future, she allowed herself to consider that maybe life wasn’t only about structure and certainty.

Maybe it was also about rhythm.

About unexpected harmonies.

About moments that couldn’t be planned — only felt.

And as she looked up at the stars scattered across the velvet sky, Claire felt something shift quietly inside her.

The future she was building suddenly felt wider.

Not just a design.

But a song.

Author Bio:

LongTemple is a contemporary Black romance author and visual storyteller whose work is rooted in emotional truth, spiritual reflection, and the resilience of love shaped by lived experience. Her stories explore pain, struggle, faith, healing, and the quiet triumph of choosing connection again—especially later in life, when love carries history and meaning.

Born and raised on New York City’s vibrant Lower East Side, LongTemple writes with a voice shaped by culture, memory, and survival. Her storytelling carries a musical cadence—sometimes aching, sometimes soaring—always grounded in honesty and soul. She centers grown, layered characters who confront grief, betrayal, forgiveness, and hope, and who discover that love, when chosen with intention, can still be transformative.

She is the creator of the Platinum Chocolate Romance Universe, a body of interconnected contemporary romance and women’s fiction that celebrates mature Black love and second chances. Each novel is paired with a companion adult-themed line art coloring book, offering readers a reflective, immersive experience that extends the story beyond the page and invites creative engagement alongside emotional connection.

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The Bistro La Bohème

 

The Bistro La Bohème Complete Series Box Set: 7 Parisian Romantic Comedies
Alix Nichols
Publication date: February 25th 2026
Genres: Adult, Comedy, Romance

Love rom-coms packed with banter, warm fuzzies, and spice?
This complete series box set has you covered.
7 full-length romances. One Paris café. Pure binge reading.

1. Falling for Emma — a redemption romance
Rising star of French soft rock Cyril is blind, talented, and broken. Graphic artist Emma lives in her sister’s shadow, hiding her love for Cyril… until the day she decides to give fate a helping hand.

2. What If It’s Love — a second-chance romance, Dante Rossetti First Place Winner
When the hottest man in Paris, Rob Dumont, shows interest in geeky, introverted heiress Lena, she suspects something fishy. And she’s right to.

3. Winter’s Gift — a modern Cinderella romance
When tech mogul Anton and elite call girl Anna cross paths over the holidays, neither can deny that what they share is special. But it threatens the principles they’ve lived by for years: love is poison, and don’t trust anyone.

4. Under My Skin — a love triangle romance
After three years of no contact, up-and-coming politician Mat Gerard believes he’s over his crush on sassy barmaid Jeanne Bonnet… Or is he?

5. Amanda’s Guide to Love — an opposites-attract romance, Kindle Scout Winner
One uptight career woman down on her luck. One free-spirited blackjack player. One wild, no-strings night that changes everything…

6. An Autumn in Paris — a single-parent romance
For single mom Dana, passion is a thing of the past. When she meets handsome vet Thomas, will she dare to love again?

7. The Devil’s Own Chloe — a friends-to-lovers romance
Patient and strong, contractor Hugo prides himself on fixing anything. But can he save his high school crush Chloe from herself?

“Ooh-la-la! Fun and entertaining.” (USA Today Bestselling Author Ann Omasta)

“The twists and turns will keep you hanging off the edge of your seat, and the magical setting will reel you in.” (Romantic Times)

Follow a close-knit group of friends as they fall in love—one swoony Parisian romance at a time.

Goodreads / Amazon

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PRAISE FOR THE BISTRO LA BOHEME SERIES

“Such a hoot to read you won’t want it to end.” — RT Book Reviews

“All the hallmarks of a good romance, and a lovely Parisian setting in the form of the quirky little La Bohème cafe and its circle of patrons.” — The Midwest Book Review

“Enchanting” — Kirkus Reviews

“An exceptionally entertaining contemporary romance.” — Readers’ Favorite

“Few authors possess the ability to make a book both somber and funny the way Alix Nichols does.” — Blog Up Close and Literal

“A touching, steamy, smile-filled swoonfest.” — Jackie D. on Goodreads

Author Bio:

Alix Nichols is a caffeine addict, a longtime fan of Mr. Darcy. She pens sexy romantic comedies and romantasy. At the age of six, she released her first book. It featured highly creative spelling on a dozen pages stitched together and bound in velvet paper.

Decades later, she lives in France and still writes. Her spelling has improved (somewhat), she has become a Kindle Scout winner, USA Today bestseller, Book Riot's Top 100 Must-Read International Romance author, and Amazon All-Star.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / Bookbub

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The Bistro La Bohème Blitz

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Inside Silence (Silence Series, #2) Author: Freya Barker

 

Title: Inside Silence (Silence Series, #2) Author: Freya Barker Performed by: Veronica Worthington & Eric MacArthur Genre: Romantic Suspense Release Date: January 13, 2026 Hosted by: Buoni Amici Press, LLC.

Savannah (Savvy) Colter is not easily overwhelmed, which is a good thing, since she is the sheriff of Edwards County. It’s rare to find someone her age— a woman to boot—carrying such responsibility, but over the years, Savvy has more than proven herself worthy of the position…to most.

However, when in a matter of a few weeks an old flame resurfaces in Silence, and two particularly violent murders land on her desk, her steady and predictable life becomes a little much to handle.

New full-time single parent, Nate Gaines, reluctantly returns to his hometown, Silence, to offer his teenage daughter some much-needed stability. As a contractor he can work anywhere, and it’s not like he left a particularly fulfilling life behind, but he’s not too sure how much work he’s going to get here.

Although, some of the changes he encounters in Silence are a surprise. The most shocking one is seeing the woman he once craved like air, now wearing the sheriff’s badge he so despises.

Coming home is definitely not turning out the way he’d envisioned. Especially when a sudden crime spree has the law knocking on his door…again.

AMAZON | AUDIBLE

START THE SERIES BY LISTENING TO FINDING SILENCE!

USA Today bestselling author Freya Barker loves writing about ordinary people with extraordinary stories.

With forty-plus books already published, she continues to create characters who are perhaps less than perfect, each struggling to find their own slice of happy.

Recipient of the ReadFREE.ly 2019 Best Book We've Read All Year Award for "Covering Ollie, the 2015 RomCon “Reader’s Choice” Award for Best First Book, “Slim To None”, Finalist for the 2017 Kindle Book Award with “From Dust”, and Finalist for the 2020 Kindle Book Award with “When Hope Ends”, Freya spins story after story with an endless supply of bruised and dented characters, vying for attention!

Be part of the buzz — join The Hype Hive today!

Ink Magic

 

Historical Fantasy

Date Published: 02-26-2026

Publisher: Sword and Thistle LLC

In World War 1, it’s not the tanks or soldiers that will determine the victors, it’s the magical tattoo ink.

The Mages who can bear that ink have special weapon and beast tattoos that can come to life.

Jack is an infamous Mage, called into a covert mission to rescue a missing scientist. If he can do this, he will ensure the balance of power with the magical ink distribution is not stolen by other countries who look to gain the upper hand during the war.

As he searches for the renowned Nikola Tesla, Jack assembles a team of Mages and soldiers as they scramble against time and powerful Russian enemies, who also have their own magical tattoos. Their enemies will use those powers not only to win the war but take over the city where all magical ink is created and distributed, thus ensuring global domination.

But Jack has a personal vendetta against one of those enemies, payback for the death of his father and other loved ones. If Jack can use his ink magic and overcome the insurmountable odds to succeed, he just might keep the ink safe, maintain the balance of power, and defeat the men who have plagued his family for decades.

This action-packed alternate history novel will keep readers on the edge of their seats! If you love the Pale Rider Second Chance series by Michael Roberts, you will love his new Ink Magic series!

 

About the Author

 

 Michael Roberts is a Police Officer in Southern California. He also served in the United States Marine Corps for seven years. This is his first American Historical fiction book, and he drew on much of his previous military experience to write it.

His most recent series, Ink Magic, was just accepted by Spiteful Books.

He lives in California with his family of seven. 

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https://mybook.to/InkMagic

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Fall Back in to Time

Just Look at Those Boots

 

 

Children's Western

Date Published: 02-26-2026

Publisher: Solander Press

A.J. is so excited about his new cowboy boots. He wears them on the first day of the school year. Mom said it was for only one day and then back to his regular boots or sneakers. During recess, A.J. plays in an exciting game of kickball. His boots get very messy during the game.

When he gets home, Jon, the farm hand, see the boots and tells him to clean them up then get into his work boots. Jon tells him to give Lady Star a ride because she’s waited all day for him.

On the ride, A.J. heads to the shallow pond out in one field. While A.J. daydreams, Lady Star sees the pond and decides to get there fast. A.J. loses control of Lady Star and finds himself thrown into the pond. Daydreaming on the ride means A.J. has additional chores when he returns to the barn.

In this second book, Sherry Roberts continues to tell stories inspired by her father’s childhood during the 1930s and 1940s in Northeast Oklahoma. For those who enjoy stores of the American West, as well as history, Just Look At Those Boots, is a must-read.

 

About the Author

 

 Sherry Roberts is an award-winning children’s book author. She holds a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Louisville. She has written multiple award-winning fiction picture books such as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas…A First for Gus, Hello, Can I Bug You?, Gabriel and the Special Memorial Day, What’s Wrong with Barnaby, and The Best Reading Buddy. She also has written two non-fiction award-winning picture books, Sonnet, Sonnet, What’s in Your Bonnet? and A Visit Through the Wetlands. These two were illustrated with her photography. Sherry’s newest picture book, Amica Helps Zoe, was featured in Kirkus e-newsletter June 2025 as Indie Pick and received a Get It: Recommend review.

As a former middle school teacher, Dr. Roberts decided to write her first middle-grade novel (ages 8-13). Her debut novel, The Galaxy According to CeCe, is the first book in a three-book series. It was officially released on February 24, 2024. Book two, The Galaxy According to Cece: The Mysterious Dr. Pruitt, was released August 2024. Book three, The Galaxy According to Cece: The Stars Align, released February 2025.

Sherry’s next venture is a chapter book series (ages 6-8). The first book, Just Call Me Pardner, was released August 1, 2025. The series is about a young boy in the 1930s on a small farm in Northeastern Oklahoma and is inspired by stories of her father’s childhood in the 1930s. Book 2, Just Look at Those Boots, launches in early 2026, with Book 3, Just Don’t Give a Girl a Frog, launching in November 2026.

Dr. Roberts has also written many articles that appear in various academic journals, along with three textbooks. Personal Financial Literacy is in its fourth edition (Pearson). She is an associate professor of Marketing in Jones College of Business at Middle Tennessee State University.

Contact Links

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https://mybook.to/JustLookatThoseBoots

Amazon