RANCHER RESCUE by BARB HAN

When Rancher Caleb Snow finds a battered Katherine Harper on his land, his instincts to help her are in full swing. Katherine's 4 year old, asthmatic nephew has been kidnapped and Katherine has no idea why. Her sister recently died in a climbing accident, leaving Noah in Katherine's charge as she is his only family left. When Caleb takes on Katherine's cause, an instant attraction between the two is evident, but Caleb has a tendency to be taken in and then let down by women and he is warned that Katherine may not be what she appears to be. Deep down, Caleb knows that there is nothing dishonest about Katherine and his feelings for her are real, even if they happened so soon.

Katherine takes on a huge responsibility when Noah is left with her. How can she be a mother to this young boy when she couldn't even do it right with her sister years ago after their parents died. Katherine's insecurities magnify when Noah is kidnapped without his essential asthma medication leaving her utterly distraught. With the handsome rancher's help, Katherine begins to see the light at the end of the dark tunnel and she opens her heart and gives her trust to Caleb. 

Who could possibly have kidnapped Noah and why? The kidnappers are demanding a file that Katherine has no idea about. What possibly could her sister have been involved in that would merit Noah's kidnapping and the threat to end his and his aunt's lives? Those questions and so many more are answered in this fast paced romantic suspense by Barb Han.

RANCHER RESCUE by Barb Han is my introduction to this author and I am very happy to have read this book and now know about Ms. Han. RANCHER RESCUE is a great read. Caleb and Katherine are strong  and interesting characters and I completely feel for their dilemmas. The mystery of who has Noah is exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat. I am looking forward to much more from Barb Han and I recommend RANCHER RESCUE to any Romantic Suspense readers. 

BOOK OBSESSED CHICKS SPOTLIGHT ON BARB HAN

1. Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?
First of all, thank you so much for having me. I spent the early part of my childhood in a small Midwest town before moving to Texas where I’ve been most of my life. I spent most of my childhood outside. By some counts, I was up a tree with a book in my nose for most of it. When my feet hit the ground, I was most likely chasing my older brother around on my bike. He’d make all these daring and dangerous bike ramps, and I’d do my best to follow him. He had one rule. He tested it first for ‘safety’. I think he just wanted to be the first one to stand on the pedals, pull up the handlebars, and fly. 

2. When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?

I always knew. I always felt an unexplainable pull toward writing from early on. By the time I was in high school, I wrote poetry. I still do occasionally, but it’s personal. I rarely share it. I’ve been a reporter and freelance marketing writer. Writing is such a part of me. My all-time favorite form of writing is what I do now.

3. Tell us about RANCHER RESCUE?

Living in Texas, I love cowboys. The idea of writing a cowboy story set on a horse ranch near my home was just too good to pass up. Fun fact: McKinney is ten minutes up the road and that’s where my daughter and I ride as often as we can. And even though there’s a sexy cowboy and a feisty heroine, the story is really about finding where you belong…home.

4. Do you have any mentors? Heroes?

Delores Fossen has been an amazing friend and mentor to me since I joined the Intrigue family of authors (everyone has been warm and welcoming). My hero is Stephen J. Cannell for the extraordinary life he lived, his dedication to his work and family, and his discipline (and work ethic) that drove him to overcome mountains to follow his passion.  

5. Can you tell us your favorite character from your books so far and 

why?

The cliché is so true…picking a favorite character is like picking a favorite child. That being said, when it comes to characters I seem to ‘love the one I’m with’ a little more than the others. Right now, I’m spending most of my time with Reed Campbell. He’s the youngest Campbell boy from The Protector Series, which Intrigue has tentatively scheduled to begin releasing in December. Reed has these brilliant brown eyes that match his overall intensity. Love him! 

6. Was it difficult for you to get published?

It took eight years to sell my first book. I’d left my corporate job to focus on writing full time, but then immediately got pregnant. Needless to say, I wrote in spurts the first half of those eight years (when my daughter napped, etc). While she attended preschool a couple of mornings a week, I used to wake up at four o’clock in the morning to write. Not being a morning person, I refer to those as the Zombie years. Once she started kindergarten and I was able to write full time, I sold quickly.  

7. Who are your favorite authors/reads?

This is a great question. I’m a huge fan of Intrigue, so Delores Fossen, Carla Cassidy, and Julie Miller immediately come to mind. I absolutely can’t put down books by Stephen J. Cannell, Linda Castillo, and Sandra Brown. Harlen Coben, Allison Brennan, and Cindy Gerard are must-reads for me. I’ll stop there because I could go on and on…there are so many fantastic authors.      

8. Hobbies?

Gardening and watching movies are a couple of my favorite hobbies. We moved a year ago and all I’ve managed in my new soil is herbs. I’m hoping to expand to a few vegetables this spring. Cooking is big for me—I love trying new foods. And, of course, reading.

9. Do you have any favorite TV shows?

TV is something I’ve had to sacrifice for the past few years in order to have time to write and be with my family. Ach! However, the first season of Castle just arrived on DVD and I can’t wait to watch it!!

10. What’s next for you?

I pitched a new series idea to my editor at Harlequin. I’m writing my last contracted book with them now. Even though they’ve bought four books, I still get nervous when I submit something new.

11. What would you like readers to know about you?

How grateful I am for their support. Also, I love connecting and can be found online at www.BarbHan.com or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BarbHan.   

THANK SO MUCH BARB FOR SPENDING THE TIME WITH THE BOOK OBSESSED CHICKS TODAY!

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THE BRIDE SAYS NO (The Brides of Wishmore #1) by CATHY MAXWELL AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT, REVIEW & GIVEAWAY

Hello all and welcome to my spotlight on one of my very favorite authors, Cathy Maxwell. Most of you who know me also know that I only started reading romance in 2009 and since then I have been making up for lost time. In 2010 I reviewed my first Cathy Maxwell book, His Christmas Pleasure and from then on I was hooked. I had the extreme pleasure of meeting Cathy in October of 2013 at the NJRW Conference and the fan girl in me was so happy. Cathy has a new book out now. The Bride Says No (The Brides of Wishmore #1) which is now a favorite of mine. 

I was able to ask Cathy some questions about herself and share them with you. So please welcome Cathy Maxwell to the blog.

KIM: Thanks so much for stopping by Book Obsessed Chicks. I am such a fan girl of yours, which I have demonstrated when I so happily got to meet you at the NJRW in October.  Since anyone can just go right over to your website and find out a lot about you on your bio page, I thought I’d go off the beaten track.

CATHY:  Sounds good.  This will be fun.  You and I are just getting to know each other. We will be two divas on a tear in Connecticut next month.

1.          What made you go from Kansas to Virginia?

         I left Kansas to join the Navy.  Now, for the record, I love Kansas.  I adore Virginia  as well and it is where I choose to live but there is something about Kansas that feeds my soul.  Big skies, wonderful people, and a sense that anything is possible.  I return to Kansas at least once a year.

2.       What began your love of horses?

My uncle had horses when I was growing up but I didn’t feel a particularly strong connection.  Then again, I must have felt something because I encouraged my two oldest children toward them. They weren’t interested (although my very oldest claims that she has always wanted a pony and would have been interested if she could have had a pony but that really is hooey. You know how kids can be.)

         However, my youngest really latched on to riding.  She had a talent for it.  I also learned that everything people say about the benefits of encouraging girls toward horses is true.  When Sam came home from middle school in one of those yippy moods, I’d say, let’s head to the barn.  Whatever was bothering her would be in perspective after a few hours of riding.

         And of course, with her out at the barn all the time, well, I drifted into loving horses as well.  When my husband died, the horses were a life line for Sam and I.

         By the way, I have to confess I am not a good rider.  I won’t go near a show ring.  A good day of riding is when I stay on.  I happen to be blessed with a marvelous horse that tolerates my silliness when he isn’t being silly himself.  Somehow it works.

3. Favorite dessert?

                  Something gooey, chocolate, and warm with vanilla ice cream and coffee.

4. Favorite drink?

         If it you are asking about alcohol, it is wine.  If you are asking in general, water.

5. What kind of car do you drive and why?

           I drive a Camry Hybrid and a Ford 250.  They balance each other out.  The Camry is easy to drive.  It is just fun and reliable.  The Ford can pull a horse trailer.

6. What made you go into the military?

         I wanted to see the world.  The Navy looked like a good way to go about it.  It was.  I traveled a good bit and met some marvelous people.

7. Guilty pleasure?

       I am a news junkie.  I read two papers a day.  One is a liberal paper and the other conservative.  I feel I can get the whole picture that way.  I enjoy thoughtful commentary and I give everyone the benefit of the doubt that they are coming from a good place.  I like new ideas that challenge my thinking.  I do not watch television news.

8. Mentor?

       The most important influence in my life was my late husband.  Kevin knew how to live fully and completely every single minute of the day.  I’m working hard to keep his spirit inside me alive. He taught me to do work I love and don’t get too wrapped around the axle over things that are not in my control or anything else for that matter.  Worry is a waste of energy. Plus, who knows if we will come this way again?  Most of the stuff that consumes us is petty and disappears on its own.  I can’t sweat it.

9.       Do you have a favorite book from your childhood?

       SCARFACE: “Being the Story of one Justin Blade, late of the Pirate Isle of Tortuga, and how Fate did justly deal with him, to his great Profit” by Andre Norton

10.   Favorite place in the world and why?

       Home.  I love to travel and meet new people but I really enjoy my home.  It is peaceful here.  Creative.  My place.

11.   Book boyfriend… Is there a hero in either your books or someone else’s that you would love to be real and know more?

       Interesting question . . . no.  Well, wait.  One of the reasons I loved SCARFACE is because I was caught up in the character of “Justin Blade.” There is a bit of the independent rebel in all of my heroes and they may stem from him.  Well, that is something to chew on.

12.   Do you have a pet peeve?

       Intolerance in all forms—liberal, conservative, racial, nationalism, sexism . . . I don’t have time for it. My friends have learned I am not the one you send a joke about a sitting POTUS to.  I am not a fan of disrespect and I try to stay away from judgmental people.  I’ve discovered their lack of a sense of humor or tolerance for ideas other than their own is infectious.  I don’t want to catch it.

 13.   Are you superstitious, if so what is that superstition?

       I am not superstitious.

14.   What would you like readers to know about you?

       That I appreciate and value their support.  We’ve had a good run together.  Some of my readers have been with me from the beginning.  I hope I never disappoint them, and I also hope I continue to entertain them.

         I’m excited about “The Brides of Wishmore” series that starts with THE BRIDE SAYS NO.  THE BRIDE SAYS MAYBE will be out this March (yes, they are back to back) and then THE GROOM SAYS YES will be out in October of this year.  I hope to spin off the couple in GROOM for a small mystery series.  Of course, I’ll keep writing romance.  I have some ideas for a series around duelists.  There it is!  A Justin Blade reference.  Kim, I didn’t realize how deeply that book from my childhood had inspired me until now!

15.   Famous last words?

       I look forward to seeing you soon, Kim!

MY REVIEW OF CATHY MAXWELL'S  ~ THE BRIDE SAYS NO ~ (THE BRIDES OF WISHMORE) 

Meet Aileen and Tara Davidson. Well-to-do sisters from the beautiful Scottish countryside. Unfortunately for these ladies, their father is a reckless gambler who is always looking for a way to get out of debt only to jump right back into it. When Aileen leaves for her season in London in hopes of finding love and then marriage, Tara is devastated. She didn't want things to change, but life is continual change.

Years later, a divorced and disgraced Aileen is back on the childhood estate after doing the unthinkable and the most scandalous things a lady of the ton could do, she has divorced her abusive husband and has been accused of having an affair with his friend. So Aileen is relegated to a lonely existence while the now engaged Tara is days away from her wedding to the recognized bastard of a duke, Mr. Blake Stephens. Once again change comes to Annefield when Tara appears on the estate's doorstep dressed as a boy, running away from her wedding to Stephens. The selfish Tara has left London days before her wedding to seek out her true love, but all is not as it seems in her idea of paradise.

When Blake appears on the manor's doorstep with Tara and Aileen's father, things do not bode well for the sisters, for Stephens will not be slighted and the Earl needs his daughter married off. Tara is in love with Ruary, an expert with horses, but a commoner,  and she only realized how much when being faced with a marriage to a man she does not love. Mr. Stephens is no man to be trifled with and Aileen realizes that from the first meeting with her sister's would be husband. What Aileen does not count on is her attraction to the broodingly handsome man. 

Once faces with the guilt her determined father riddles her with, Tara back peddles and begrudgingly agrees to marry Mr. Stephens, leaving Aileen aghast with her foot in her mouth from defending the weakened Tara. Blake Stephens quietly admires the steel of Aileen's manner, and so begins the debacle of if Tara  will marry or not marry Blake. 

The Bride Says No, the first book the the Brides of Wishmore series by the indomitable Cathy Maxwell, is a brilliant and exciting start to her latest series. Aileen Davidson is now one of my all time favorite heroines of romance with her spine of steel and her understanding of the world she lives in. No longer jaded by the illusion of a happily married life, Aileen's abuse by her former husband transform her into a force to be reckoned with. At first I disliked Blake Stephens for his aloof manner and his slightly facetious personality, but that is a facade that Aileen gradually and unknowingly chips away. Cathy Maxwell's books are always so engaging, so full of humor, so very hard to put down. The Bride Says No is perfection from cover to the final words. I so thoroughly enjoyed Cathy Maxwell's, The Bride Says No and I highly recommend it to all.

~ KIMBERLY ~

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THE TEMPTATION OF LADY SERENA ( The Marriage Game #3) by ELLA QUINN

Before I begin my summary and opinion I have to say that this is the first book I had read of Ella Quinn's and I was so intrigued with the story and so impressed with the author's writing that I immediately went back and read the two previous books in this series for more understanding and enjoyment as a whole. 

Older than the usual lady having her first season, Lady Serena Weir catches the eye of many a prospective love interest. Serena is not used to being in the public eye and is much more at home managing the family estate. Serena's brother has other ideas, marriage is what's on his mind, so he sends Serena off to London to be thrust into society. 

 Robert Viscount Beaumont is taken with the beauty, even though he was determined to remain a bachelor for as long as humanly possible, Serena makes him think that marriage might not be a bad state to be in after-all, but there still is that betrayal he dealt with in his past that clouds his perception and he compares the lovely Serena to the one who hurt him so. While Serena finds Robert handsome and interesting, she is not sure that she sees herself as his or anyone's wife. Once Robert decides he wants Serena to wife he will do what he has to to convince her. When his plans go at a snail's pace, deception and manipulation set a course for either his conquest or his demise.

THE TEMPTATION OF LADY SERENA by Ella Quinn  is a passionate tale of want. Both Serena and Robert want what they can't have until they can come to terms with each other's needs. These characters are so interesting and engaging, it was hard to put the book down. Ella Quinn is a consummate author and I am now a huge fan. As soon as I finished this tale, which was my very first Ella Quinn title, I went back and read every book I could get my hands on. I still can't get enough of this author's writing and I urge everyone who loves a great historical romance with an edge to grab THE TEMPTATION OF LADY SERENA by Ella Quinn and not let go.

~KIMBERLY~

GUEST BLOGGER-~PAT SHEPPARD REVIEWS ~~ NOW AND FOREVER by LOGAN BELLE~~

I was excited to read the book NOW AND FOREVER because I wanted to see if Clara would finish her bucket list. NOW AND FOREVER is the second installment in A LAST CHANCE SERIES by author, Logan Belle. We left off with Justin helping Claire check off number six of her sexual bucket list - a one night stand. That's what is was supposed to have been,  but we open with Justin listening from the back of the room to Claire reading their story to the sexual reading group, and he is crushed to hear her say she is fine with the way it ended. It was supposed to be a one night stand. Does Justin have other idea? Does he want something more? Can we handle any more?  He arranges to meet Claire at their favorite pub and he helps her check off number seven of her list, sex in a public place. Is that on your list?  Claire is about to have a few surgeries  that are part of her cancer treatment. Does she have room in her life for Justin?  Does she have room in her life for anybody.? What does Justin want with her.? Why does Justin want her?  Both their lives are so complicated. Both of them are living half-lives. Can they make two halves a whole? I know what I want, I want to see number 8, 9 and 10 on the bucket list of hers fulfilled.  What you want? Well you've got to read Now and Forever to find out what Justin and Claire finally end up with. I promise you'll be surprised.

~ PAT SHEPPARD~ 

SECRETS AT COURT by BLYTHE GIFFORD

Through a series of unfortunate incidents, the imperfect Anne of Stamford comes into the service of the ambitious and deceptive, Lady Joan, who is determined to wed Edward of Woodstock, the eldest son of the King of England. Anne knows she must do all Lady Joan bids for her well-being and for those around her even if she doesn't agree with what is going on around her. Loyalty always comes with a price.

Sir Nicholas Lovayne has spent most of his life in service with his sword and now he is ready to retire and be free to live out the rest of his days in peace, but it isn't quite to be, just yet. Sir Nicholas is given the unsavory task of finding out if Lady Joan, who was previously married, is legally and morally able to be wed to Edward.

Anne and Nicholas set out on a mission of fact finding that takes them many miles away from home. Due her Anne's disability, she has never been far from Lady Joan and this torturous journey on horseback will either break her or make her stronger. Nicholas never wanted any involvements with women, other than the casual meeting, but during the journey he comes to respect Anne for her determination and soon he comes to have deeper feelings for the woman who thought she would be alone and at the mercy of others forever

SECRETS AT COURT by Blythe Gifford is a wonderful historical romance. I am a complete history geek, so I enjoyed the subject matter.  Anne is a strong character who doubts her own ability to survive, but strives to have what she has been told all her life she can't have. Her attraction to the knight is is shroud in disbelief at first, but when the pair begin their love affair, she wonders if more is possible. Nicholas is prejudiced by his past and allowing Anne access to his true self is a journey in itself. I enjoyed this book and I hope that others will as well.

ATONEMENT ( Beartooth Mountain Series) by B.J. DANIELS & GIVEAWAY

One of the things from the Beartooth Mountain series that I adore, is author B.J. Daniels' ability to weave multiple story lines together in a most masterful way. It keeps me biting my nails and waiting with bated breath for what's coming next. All of the characters involved are in some way connected, and yet have their own trials and tribulations which for me, set apart Ms. Daniels into a league all her own.

In ATONEMENT, the 4th installment of the Beartooth Mountain series, the newer lawman in town, Dillon Lawson not only comes smack down in the middle of a murder in town, but he also is faced with a personal matter in the form of the feisty Tessa Winters, who swears that Dillon is in fact his deceased brother Ethan and claims she is pregnant by the man who is supposed to have died a year ago. Dillon shakes his head, because the woman in front of him is either a complete con artist or Ethan is in fact alive. Ah, and therein lies an entirely different set of issues that this man has to deal with, aside from the town's Sheriff being accused of murdering his ex-wife.

Finally things are starting to look up for Frank and Nettie. Separated by a lifetime of disappointments, these star-crossed lovers have been in love with one another for decades but from afar. Nothing ever seemed to work for these two until now. Things are starting to look brighter now that Frank returns to work after his near death experience several months before at the hand of the daughter he didn't even know he had. Now he is under suspicion for the murder of his ex.

There is nothing better than a B.J. Daniels suspense novel for this reader. She puts my brain into high gear with her exciting whodunit with a side of romance. I love how we have the new story with Dillon and Tessa and the old with Frank and Nettie. With each story in the Beartooth Mountain series, I have become invested in the livelihoods of all those involved, the characters feel like old friends who you have a stake in their well-being. I highly recommend ATONEMENT by B.J. DANIELS, I enjoyed this thoroughly, as I did with each and every book in the Beartooth Mountain series and I eagerly await the next one.

~KIMBERLY~

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AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT ON AUTHOR FIONA ARCHER & GIVEAWAY!!!!

Hello all and welcome to Book Obsessed Chicks Spotlight on author Fiona Archer. This lovely lady is from Down Under and she wrote a pretty hot book called,

CHLOE'S DOUBLE DRAW which is an erotic M/F/M romance that released in 2012 and this week, her latest, the second book in the King's Bluff, Wyoming series, HIGH STAKES LOVING released. I thought my awesome followers would like to have an insight into this mysterious lady from Australia who writes about the American West.

Welcome to Book Obsessed Chicks Fiona and thank you for answering my questions.

1.   Can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

I’m a self-confessed nerd who loves reading murder mysteries books, watching movies when it’s raining, and sharing coffee and a laugh with friends. I loved being a teenager in the 80s and have the shoulder pads to prove it. While I love to dance, I have no sense of rhythm and have been told by so-called friends that my jive is in fact a crime against humanity.

2.   When and how did you know you wanted to be a writer?

The “when” was in my early teenage years. I hated high-school and would lose myself in the world of my Mum’s Mills & Boon (Harlequin) romances. Throw in some Johanna Lindsey novels and I was hooked. I wanted to create arrogant, alpha male heroes that grab the girl and make her theirs.

3.   Tell us about your upcoming work?

High-Stakes Loving is book 2 in my King’s Bluff, Wyoming series and showcases Reagan, Quinn and Mike’s story. These characters were first introduced in Chloe’s Double Draw, the first book of the series. When writing that first story, a shy librarian named Reagan popped into my head. When she initially encountered Quinn and Mike, it was like a perfect Dom/sub storm. Her shyness just revved their Dom engines harder, and they’ve made it their mission to claim her. But like everything in life, you have to work for what you want, as these Ex-SEALS find out.

4.    Do you have any mentors? Heroes?

Cherise Sinclair is my Obi Wan Kenobi. She’s a dear friend, brainstorming buddy, critique partner and fellow lover of Tim Tams. (I’ve only recently introduced her to these freaking awesome Aussie cookies.)

Lexi Blake is a fabulous friend and someone whose generosity of spirit and friendship is a blessing.

I’m so damn lucky to have both of these amazing women in my life.

5. Can you tell us your favorite character from your books so far and why?

I’d have to say Reagan. She’s a lover of books, defender of libraries and rescue kitties and has a soft heart. The more I wrote of that story, the more she grew in confidence and showed the steel that lay underneath those soft curves.

6. Was it difficult for you to get published?

It was difficult for me to finish the first book. I’d never written a full story before, so my learning curve was steep. Having awesome support from author friends who provided critiques helped knock my rough drafts into shape. Once I actually submitted the story to Siren, it was accepted within a few days.

7. Who are your favorite authors/reads?

Cherise Sinclair, Lexi Blake, Sophie Oak, Johanna Lindsey, Julie Garwood, Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, umm…when do you want me to stop? ;)

8. Hobbies?

Reading, gardening, going to the movies. I’d love to say something exciting like skydiving, but I’m terrified of heights and suffer from vertigo, so that cancels out most adrenaline rush type hobbies.

9. Tell us a bit about your workshop(s) at the conference?

Cherise Sinclair and I led in a SPANKING 101 session at RomCon in 2013. It was fun! And yes, she spanked my bum. We had lots of laughs and made sure people enjoyed the topic by keeping it light and showing them how it can be a fun way to get your guy interested in BDSM.

10. Do you have any favorite TV shows?

I’m one of those kids that grew up on M.A.S.H. and that appreciation for dry wit has stayed with me for life. I loved Seinfield and The West Wing. Oh, and some old favorites include some classic UK comedies such as “On the Buses” and “Steptoe and Son”. Current favorite is Sleepy Hollow. LOVE that show!

11. What’s next for you?

I’m writing the third book in the King’s Bluff series. I have plans for six in the series. And, I want to start some self-pub projects in the next twelve months.

12. What would you like readers to know about you?

I am a reader first and that means I have my own “fan-girl” moments, so that’s why I love having readers get in touch with me.

When I wake up in the morning I never suffer from bed hair. So whatever you may have or will hear in the future, it’s all lies.

And I totally didn’t cajole/force Lexi Blake to spend loads of money on eye-shadow and stuff when she took me into a store in Dallas so she could buy some hair product. Totally did not do that. Honest.

Let me entice you. . .

Former SEALs Quinn and Mike have discovered in King’s Bluff, Wyoming, a town that embraces ménage and BDSM lifestyles.  Even better, they found a sweet woman they could love—if they could only gain the shy librarian’s trust. Overhearing that she adores capture fantasy stories, the two Doms know exactly how to get her attention.

Trapped between two experienced Masters, Reagan surrenders. They’re commanding, determined, yet gentle, and everything she ever wanted. Even as she learns what it is to be cherished, a secret from the past emerges, threatening her reputation. She hires her lovers to investigate, expecting them to be on her side. But the damning evidence they uncover rocks their relationship.

As pressure for the truth mounts, danger stalks Reagan. Someone out there believes secrets are best left buried.

Long-held misconceptions and fears stand in their way, risking their futures and allowing the threat closer. The three must fight as one for their love to survive.

Time for some High-Stakes Loving. . .

Mike pushed the door closed with the kind of unhurried movement that reeked of confidence. He leaned back against the wood, crossing his arms over his chest. Quinn stepped forward, hat in one hand and a black gym bag in the other.

She frowned and glanced up at his face.

“A SEAL always keeps a bag handy. Mike and I have everything we need in here.” He dropped the bag at his feet, followed by his hat.

“Everything?” She guessed he meant more than a clean shirt and deodorant.

“For tonight anyway.” Quinn stalked forward, his body now so close she had to lift her chin high to meet his gaze. “Reality-check time. I’ll ask you again. Do you want this, Reagan? Because we’re not some pansy-ass Ken doll version of Doms.” He caught her wrists and drew them behind her back, holding them there with one hand.

Her pussy throbbed. She tested his hold, wanting, no, needing to struggle. He tightened his grip. Firm. Inescapable.

Quinn used his grip to push her up against him. “You’re caught, sweetness. And that’s just a preview of things to come. We’re gonna order you about, tie you up, eat your pussy till you’re begging us to let you come, say no because that’s the kind of bastards we are, then we’re gonna eat you up all over again.” He lifted his free hand and ran his thumb over her bottom lip. “I want to discover all the ways you light up when we bury our cocks inside that warm heaven between your legs. You’ll come when we say so and not before. Defy us and you’ll be punished. Still interested?”

Dominated. Tied. Theirs.

Her mouth opened but her voice refused to cooperate.

Mike pushed off the door. “We need the words, Reagan.”

“Y-yes.”

Quinn lessened his hold until her hands fell away to her sides. Somehow, the action left her…bereft.

“Strip,” Mike ordered.

“Here, in the hallway?” They had to be kidding.

Mike’s mouth pressed down in a harsh line. But it was his cold stare washing over her like an icy bath that made her gulp.

She hurried to remove her shirt and tank top. Her fingers struggled to get a grip, as if covered in woolen mittens. Why did the guys have to stand so close?

Dragging the tank top over her head, the easy-fit cotton now impersonated skin-tight spandex, hooking on her elbows until with one hard pull, she managed to lurch free. Sexy, Reagan. With her gaze lowered, she dropped the clothing at her feet.

Thank God for front-closing bras. Her breasts spilled out. Don’t think about all that pale skin. Just hurry. They’re waiting. The white cotton joined the rest of her clothing. After toeing off her sneakers, she pulled her panties down with her jeans.

The cool air wafted over her bare skin. She shivered. There she was, naked in front of Mike and Quinn. And yet, every part of her was alive with a slow burn that kindled from deep between her legs. She moved her gaze from Quinn’s boots to her chest. The hard points of her nipples stood like beacons, screaming her arousal.

Oh, heck, her breasts. She raised her arms.

“Hands by your sides, sugar.” Quinn’s deep voice cut in.

Lowering her hands was like refusing to swim even as the water closed over her head. Her fingers twitched. A tightness filled her belly. Standing there, like a horse on display, seemed so wrong. Shouldn’t she argue back?

“We’re going to push you, Reagan. Well beyond what you’re used to from a partner. In or out of bed.” Mike tilted his head. “Have you been with a Dom before?”

“No.” Only in her dreams. This reality was so much more.

Mike walked behind her.

She forced herself not to swivel around. Look ahead. Chin up.

A line of knuckles brushed against her butt cheek.

She started. Her breasts jiggled.

Mike’s chuckle singed her ears. “Easy, sub.”

She dragged her gaze up to Quinn’s face. The heat of his stare made her stomach muscles quiver, as if he’d twirled a feather over her belly button.

“Ever been tied up?” Mike’s hand curved over her hip.

“No.” Her face heated. It seemed so foreign and carnal, talking about bondage in such a matter-of-fact way.

“Spanked?”

“N-no.” She coughed past the shag pile carpet coating her throat. “I haven’t done anything, besides, you know, normal stuff.” Two lovers at college and an ex-boyfriend in Sheridan. All missionary men, and she wasn’t talking bibles.

This time Quinn chuckled. “We’re gonna open up a whole new world for you, sweetheart.”

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