Review: The Lodge by Kayla Olson

From the author of The Reunion, a cozy rom-com about a writer who decamps to a Vermont lodge for work but finds herself distracted by the charming ski instructor next door.

About the Book

Alix Morgan just got her big break as the ghostwriter of a memoir by Sebastian Green, a former member of the boy band True North. And when he offers her a penthouse at a luxurious resort in Vermont, she jumps at the chance to work far away from her noisy, cramped apartment.

Her career as an entertainment journalist has been building toward this dream job—after all, she used to cover True North and was one of the last people to interview former front man Jett Beckett before he disappeared. As she combs through her client’s voice memos, the specter of the missing lead singer remains, and fans are desperate to know the full story.

But Alix also has time for some fun at this glamorous resort, where she begins ski lessons with a handsome instructor named Tyler. As Alix and Tyler fall in love on the slopes, Alix’s work takes a complicated turn—and the mystery of True North’s downfall may be hers to solve.

Goodreads | Buy Links*

My Review

This is my first read by the author and I am quite impressed!

Growing up, I was (still am) a HUGE boy band fan so I was quickly drawn to this book about the mystery surrounding a missing boy bander who disappeared all Eddie and The Cruisers-style. Where did he go? Is he still alive? Could he be hiding in plain sight? Fans have been speculating for YEARS! I had to find out what happened!

The Lodge quickly swept me away into a scenic Vermont landscape where Alix finds inspiration for her breakthrough gig as a ghostwriter. And where she befriends a kind, funny, and handsome local ski instructor who also just so happens to be her neighbor, which makes for a delightful distraction.

The storyline is engaging and absolutely lovely. The romance is beautifully done. Alix and Tyler have great chemistry. Theirs is a sweet (and clean) romance.

This is also a story with real, raw emotions. The struggles each character faces carry consequential burdens that are painstakingly difficult to navigate. There’s not always a correct answer, life decisions are never just black and white. The story also touches on the darker side of fame, the good, the bad, and the life shattering.

The Lodge is a wonderful read with a little bit of mystery and lots of heart. I whole-heartedly recommend it to every reader!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

About the Author

Kayla Olson is the author of two books for young adults with her adult debut (a rom-com, The Reunion) to hit shelves in 2023. Her work has been published in fifteen languages; find her on Instagram (@authorkaylaolson), Twitter (@olsonkayla), or her website (www.kaylaolson.com).

*Third party links to the publisher's website. May contain affiliate links.

Review: Kingdom of Claw by Demi Winters

Happy Release Day

Kingdom of Claw is the second book in the amazing epic romantic fantasy series by Demi Winters.

Get your copy today!

About the Book

Return to the Kingdom of Íseldur, where enemies become lovers and dark secrets hide around each corner, in the sequel to the Viking-inspired romantic fantasy The Road of Bones.

In the aftermath of a harrowing journey, Silla Nordvig’s dreams of a simple life have been shattered. Beaten, betrayed, and reeling from the revelation of her true name, she flees Kopa with Reynir Galtung, the ruthless leader of the Bloodaxe Crew. But when they're forced into hiding together, Silla soon discovers that Rey has been keeping secrets of his own.

Stuck in a shield-home with the murderous man she thought she knew, Silla forms a new plan: master the magic flowing through her veins to save her sister. But before she can do that, Silla must face her most formidable opponent yet—her own inner demons.

Saga Volsik has nothing to lose. They’ve murdered her family. Stolen her throne. And now they expect her to marry their son, but not if she can dismantle Queen Signe’s plans first. The only problem? The handsome Zagadkian dignitary who knows far too many of her secrets.

Silla and Saga will need to find the strength to step into their destiny and stop chaos from sweeping across the land. Meanwhile, dark threads continue to weave themselves through Íseldur as magic long thought dead begins to wake.

Excerpt

 

CHAPTER 1

Two days west of Kopa

Silla Nordvig had once vowed no force in this world could draw her to the true north of Íseldur, but clearly she’d underestimated the gods’ twisted sense of humor. Because here she was, on a horse with Axe Eyes, heading for that very place.The canyon’s black walls climbed up on either side of them as Horse walked beside a flat-­bedded river. Nature had made a valid attempt to reclaim the space, moss and greenery carpeting the riverbanks and exposed ledges. But black volcanic stone dominated, the sheer canyon walls stark and raw in their beauty.

They’d ridden through the canyon for two full days now. The sun rose and set, the world moving on as though it hadn’t been smashed to pieces. But with each passing day, Silla’s spirits sank lower. It was starting to settle in—­there would be no Kopa.

Instead, there was Kalasgarde.

Silla exhaled. Rey claimed to know people in Kalasgarde who could help her hide from the queen and Klaernar. He thought it would be safe for her. But Silla knew better than to hope; her foolish heart had been bruised too many times. The truth was, there was no place safe for her. Not now that she knew her true name.

Eisa Volsik.

Heir of King Ivar’s sworn enemy. Hunted by Queen Signe for her mysterious, wicked plans. Political pawn to those in power. Easy reward for those who were not. The name brought nothing but misery. Chest tightening, Silla clamped her hands around the saddle horn until her knuckles grew white.

Not her. Not her. Not her.

Silla drew in a long breath. Exhaled it slowly.

Kopa had been Matthias’s decision, and Kalasgarde was Rey’s. As the days wore on, the idea of choosing for herself grew in Silla’s mind. Perhaps there were better options for her than the northern wilds of this kingdom. A southbound ship leaving Íseldur had a pleasing feel to it. She could go to the Southern Continent or Karthia, perhaps. Anywhere she could fade into obscurity.

For the time being, Silla had resigned herself to Rey’s plan. Istré for now. It was easier not to decide for herself. A relief, if she was being honest. But between the black walls of the canyon, Silla had nothing but time to think. To remember their names.

Ilías Svik. Matthias Nordvig. Skeggagrim.

Good men, all dead because of her. Perhaps living was her punishment. To wake each morning with the anguish of their blood on her hands, with the ache of Jonas’s betrayal etched into her soul, knowing that Metta was in the Klaernar’s prison, suffering at the hands of her captors.

Certainly, Silla bore the bruises of Kopa—­a beating so thorough that her eye had swelled up and her ribs ached with each slight movement. Even so, she couldn’t help but think she deserved far worse.

They rounded a bend, the canyon widening. The lower levels of the wall had eroded away in one spot, leaving a thin black spire topped with a wider rock.

“They call it Hábrók’s Hammer,” said Rey from behind her. “We will camp here tonight. There is an overhang there to shelter under. Plenty of grass for Horse . . .” Her mind drifted to the rumble of his voice along her back. It was impossible to keep their distance while on horseback, and in her exhaustion, she’d given up trying. Though she’d never admit it to anyone but herself, his presence behind her—­a solid wall of warrior—­was reassuring.

“Silla?”

She shook her head, trying to disperse the haze clouding her mind. Rey had dismounted and was staring at the small crescent-­shaped scar at the corner of her eye.

Stop staring at it! she wanted to scream. This scar was her damnation. It had allowed those men near Skarstad to identify her; it had gotten her father killed. Silla turned her head, dismounting from Horse.

Over the past days spent traveling together, she and Rey had settled into a routine of sorts. Mindlessly, Silla removed Horse’s saddle and brushed her down, while Rey pulled supplies from the saddlesack and set up camp. By the time Horse’s coat gleamed and she’d wandered to a lush patch of grass, Rey had a fire roaring. As it happened, he was remarkably adept at kindling a fire, even from the wettest wood.

She sank onto the grass. Pulled at an errant thread dangling from her cuff. It was Rey’s tunic, as were the breeches belted around her waist. His clothing swam on her, but it didn’t matter. She’d burned the red dress Valf had put her in. If only she could burn the memories of his hand, clutching her neck while the other went to his belt.

Scream, dear. I do so enjoy it.

Rey’s voice diverted her thoughts. “Tomorrow we’ll travel past a village. I’ll stop and have a falcon sent north to the warriors who will fetch you.” He paused, eyeing her. “And we shall reach Istré after dark.”

Silla’s temples throbbed at the mere thought of Istré. Days now, it had been the two of them plodding through this canyon. Here, she’d settled into a numb existence. Not quite safe, yet not quite in danger: It was an in-­between. But the words village and people had her survival instincts on edge, making her pulse beat erratically.

A weighted silence hung in the air, and Silla knew Rey was choosing his words. “You must eat more tonight, Silla.” He pulled a few strips of dried elk from his bag and offered them to her.

Silla stared at his outstretched hand. The thought of food made her stomach roil, and the thought of Kalasgarde was like an anchor tied to her, pulling her down, down, down. She felt lost and so very tired. Not just her body, but her bones.

Her soul.

But she took the dried elk all the same. Forced herself to bite into it. What she wouldn’t give for her skjöld leaves, to fly away from everything for a moment or two. Would there be an apothecary in Istré? Silla had lost all her belongings, sólas included. Rey, though . . . he kept coins in a pouch on his battle belt, others in the false bottom of Horse’s saddlesack. She could pilfer a few. Sneak off to the apothecary in Istré.

She was filled with self-­loathing at the vile thought. Rey had saved her life in Kopa. She could not steal from him. But the longings were fiercer than she’d felt in days . . . weeks.

Without the leaves how could she distract herself from the gloom of her thoughts? Before, she’d had Jonas to help her escape. But like the leaves, he’d brought nothing but misery. All of the bandages for Silla’s grief were now gone, and gods, but it hurt.

Rey had busied himself sharpening one of his many daggers, but she felt the touch of his gaze on her skin. Silla glanced his way. With the fire’s flames reflected in his eyes, with that sharp jaw and the sprawl of his legs, the man looked like a malevolent god honing his blade. Utterly unbothered by anything. Impenetrable to human emotion. Brutally handsome.

Her eyes trailed across his broad frame and landed on his hip.

“May I?” she asked, nodding at the flask.

Rey hesitated before pushing to his full height and stepping around the fire. Crouching down to her level, he pressed the flask firmly into her palm. “Go easy,” he said, a groove deepening between his brows.

She wanted to reach out. Smooth the line away. Instead, she lifted the flask to her lips and took a large swallow. It burned a path down her throat, making her wince. Still, Rey stared at her scar so intently that she squirmed.

“Why do you stare at it?” she asked, blinking against the burn of the fire whiskey. “My scar?”

Rey seemed to shake free from his reverie. Running a hand down his face, for a moment he looked a little unsettled. “It reminds me,” he said, “of a life long ago.”

Silla puzzled over his words for a moment before helping herself to another gulp of brennsa. “Tell me,” she said.

Rey settled back across the fire, passing his dagger across a whetstone. “I prefer not to think of it.”

“Bad memories?” she asked, though of course he did not answer.

Tendrils of warmth unfurled in her belly, sending tiny vibrations all through her. Silla took yet another large mouthful of the fire whiskey, closing her eyes as it took effect. It was like a full-body exhalation, her tangled worries loosening, the burn of guilt soothed.

She lifted the flask for another drink.

“Silla.” Rey’s voice floated across the fire, carrying irritation and warning all at once. Silla, of course, ignored him. He wanted her to be responsible and sensible when all she wanted was to forget.

Pushing onto her feet, she arched her back in a stretch. She felt better already. Almost happy. “In a life long ago, I had chickens,” she said. The brennsa flowed through her with a silent rhythm that made her want to move. “And a swing. And I played a game. Do you want to play it, Axe Eyes?”

He scowled at her. The light from the fire caught his black curls, the warm brown of his curving cheekbone. Rey’s normally fastidiously trimmed beard hadn’t been touched in some time, and Silla considered that the past few days must have held their challenges for him as well. A better woman would offer to trim it for him—­would try to lighten his burden.

A better woman was not her.

Excerpted from Kingdom of Claw by Demi Winters. Copyright © 2025 by Demi Winters. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher.

My Review

Demi Winters slays in this thrilling next chapter of The Ashen series where the enemies are aplenty, the betrayals are scandalous, and action is fire! 

We finally get to meet Saga and see through her eyes all the horrors and tribulations she suffers at the hands of the kingdom's usurpers. Her story is full of pain and sorrow, but her will is steadfast and driven by the need to protect her sister. Trying to throw a monkey wrench into her plans is a group of foreign dignitaries visiting to hammer out a trade agreement with the kingdom, led by a smoldering and mysterious warrior that sees too much and has his own secrets and agenda. Is he a friend or foe? Saga has to be careful around him so she doesn’t spill secrets of her own. 

Silla and Reynir face several problems of their own. Reynir’s secrets are discovered and he’s hunted by the king’s men–and every headhunter out to collect the handsome reward. Silla’s in more danger than ever so Reynir takes Silla to the safest place he knows, a home where he swore he’d never return to. There’s safety here but lots of demons for Reynir. It’s also a place for Silla to learn her magic and train to defend herself while coming to terms with her true identity. When people start disappearing, Reynir wonders if he and Silla have brought trouble to his homeland. The king’s forces are the least of their worries when an evil unlike any other is discovered and everyone’s lives are at stake!

Oh my GOODNESS this book is amazing! There is so much action, so much adventure, subterfuge, betrayals, secrets, and so much more! I was completely blown away by the extraordinary worldbuilding, the complex storyline, and the amazing characters! The fabric of this series is brilliantly crafted, with meticulous precision and expert handiwork. It’s absolutely amazing and I recommend the entire series. I can’t wait for the next book!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links

Penguin Random House

About the Author

Lover of all things fairy tales, fantasy, and romance, Demi lives in British Columbia, Canada with her husband and two kids. When she’s not busy brainstorming fantastical worlds and morally gray love interests, Demi loves reading and cooking. Learn more at demiwinters.com

Review: Barbarian's Heart by Ruby Dixon

 Happy Release Week!

Today, we are celebrating the beautiful special edition cover release of Barbarian's Heart by Ruby Dixon!

This pretty novella is Book 9 is Ruby's Ice Planet Barbarians series. 

Get your copy HERE today!

About the Book

The next novel in the Ice Planet Barbarians series, an international publishing phenomenon—now in a special print edition with a bonus novella!

The unthinkable happens when a devastating accident causes Pashov to forget his mate, but Stacy will do whatever it takes to make her family whole again. . . .

The first time I laid eyes on Pashov, we resonated. I was happy and in love, and we were raising a beautiful child together. All of that was torn apart when the world shook.

My mate nearly died.

He woke up from his coma . . . but he can’t remember me. Or our son. Every memory of the past two years is gone. And that changes everything between us. How can I love someone who doesn’t remember me?

How can I not when I know he’s still my mate underneath it all?

My Thoughts

This was a pretty tough read. Pashov had a head injury and doesn't remember his mate or his son. Stacy is heartbroken and wants Pashov's memories to return, and doesn't want to be with him until they do. This is frustrating for Pashov because he wants to be a good mate, but has forgotten everything from the time the humans first came to the planet.

I really thought Stacy was kinda selfish here. I mean, yeah Pashov has no memory of her but he has proof through his khui, the parasite that keeps him alive, healthy and matched to his fated mate. Stacy should love and accept him regardless. She’s fighting some demons of her own from the past, which is making the situation that much more difficult. 

The story is heartbreaking, but it’s also a tale of strength, perseverance, and resilience… and hot blue alien monkey love. 

It was tough to get through but definitely worth a read!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

About the Author

Ruby Dixon is an author of all things science fiction and fantasy romance. She is a Sagittarius and a Reylo shipper, and loves farming sims (but not actual housework). She lives in the South with her husband and a couple of goofy cats, and can’t think of anything else to put in her biography. Truly, she is boring. Learn more at rubydixon.com

Cover Reveal: Road Trip With A Vampire by Jenna Levine

I’m so excited to help share the cover of ROAD TRIP WITH A VAMPIRE by Jenna Levine coming out October 14, 2025, with Berkley Romance! Like all of Jenna’s books, this book’s title functions as a summary, but if you’d like to know more, ROAD TRIP is a paranormal romcom featuring a witch with a big secret and a brooding vampire trying to recover his memories as they find what they’re looking for, together, on the road. 

ROAD TRIP WITH A VAMPIRE includes:

• Tol & Smol

• Coastal Northern California 

• A big broody vampire 🧛

• … and the witch who immediately has him down bad 🧙‍♀️

• Road trip

• Oh no one bed what do????  

• Singing animatronic chickens, and also goats 

• Caught in the rain 

• Heartfelt midnight conversations

• Spice 🔥🔥🔥

• Reginald and Frederick 🧛🧛

• Comedy and/or  hijinks

What you can do now:

• Preorder anywhere you get your books HERE!
• Request at your local library
• Add to Goodreads

 

Favorite Books of 2024

Today, I'm sharing my favorite reads of 2024. 

According to my Goodreads Reading Challenge,
I've read 127 books this year! 

I finally read the Kate Daniels series by Gordon and Ilona Andrews
and I'm a HUGE fan!

I also discovered several new-to-me authors
and many of them are on my top favorites list!

Without further ado, these are 27 of my favorite 2024 published reads
in no particular order!

1. Habeas Corpus by Rebecca Zanetti (The Anna Albertini Files #6)

2. Bride by Ali Hazelwood

3. Frostbitten by Rebecca Zanetti (Deep Ops #6)

4. Archangel's Lineage by Nalini Singh ( Guild Hunter #16)

5. Legacy of Temptation by Larissa Ione (Demonica Birthright #1)

6. Legacy of Chaos by Larissa Ione (Demonica Birthright #2)

7. 10 Things I Hate About Mistletoe by Codi Hall (Falling in Mistletoe #1)

8. A Fire in the Sky by Sophie Jordan (A Fire in the Sky #1)

9. An Enchanting Case of Spirits by Melissa Holtz (The Gin & Tarot Club #1)

10. Paging Dr. Hart by Dr. Melissa Dymond

11. Winter Lost by Patricia Briggs (Mercy Thompson #14)

12. Primal Mirror by Nalini Singh (Psy-Changeling Trinity #8)

13. Sanctuary by Ilona Andrews ( Roman's Chronicles #1)

14. Buried Too Deep by Karen Rose (Romantic Suspense #30)

15. In The Air Tonight by Marie Force

16. Christmas Ever After by Jaimie Admans (Ever After Street #4)

17. The Beloved by J.R. Ward (Black Dagger Brotherhood #22)

18. The Most Wonderful Crime of the Year by Ally Carter

19. Stealing His Heart by P.A. DePaul

20. Bull Moon Rising by Ruby Dixon (Royal Artifactual Guild #1)

21. You Can Kill by Rebecca Zanetti (Laurel Snow #4)

22. A Very Merry Hitman by Katie Reus (Holiday With a Hitman #2)

23. Christmas Eve Love Story by Ginny Baird

24. A Scottish Christmas by Emma Bennet

25. Barbarian's Treat by Ruby Dixon

26. The Road of Bones by Demi Winters (The Ashen #1)

27. Angels at Moonglow by Deborah Garner (The Moonglow Christmas Series #10)

Each of these books has a special place in my heart! 

I hope you discovered many wonderful books this year! See y'all next year! 

Day 25: Christmas Ever After by Jaimie Admans

Happy Holidays!

Today is Day 25 of my holiday reading recommendations.

This is the final day of holiday reads. I hope you've found a new read or have been able to find time to read anything this busy holiday season.

Christmas Ever After is a beautiful grumpy/sunshine read with so much heart.

I absolutely LOVE this book and hope you do too!

Christmas Ever After is currently FREE on Kindle Unlimited!

Grab yourself a copy today!

I wish you a very Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukah, Happy Kwanza, Happy Holidays, or however you celebrate, or don't.

Wishing everyone a safe and bright New Year!

About the Book

A picture-perfect town, a place where dreams come true. Welcome to Ever After Street…

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but Franca Andrews has never felt more miserable. With business far from bustling, she needs a Christmas miracle to keep her beloved nutcracker shop open… But there’s one man standing in her way – expert snow globe maker Raff Dardenne.

Dardenne Snow Globes have a magical reputation for bringing lovers together, a myth Raff continues to exploit. But this Christmas their shops are pitted against each other and only one gets to stay on Ever After Street. Franca doesn’t know how her handmade nutcrackers are ever going to compete with Raff’s snow globes, especially at the most magical time of the year!

As these two enemies get to know each other, Franca discovers another side to Raff – kind, caring and funny. But unless she can prove that his magical snow globes can’t really match true lovers together, she’s going to lose everything…

But maybe it’s not too late for them to put aside their differences and find some Christmas magic of their own?

My Review

I was completely swept away to Ever After Street where it’s Christmas 365 days a year and there’s magic all around… and a couple of problematic Grinches in a head-to-head business deathmatch.

Franca is hanging on by a thread this holiday season. When Raff’s shop threatens her livelihood, Franca sets things in motion that could either benefit her nutcracker shop, or shutter its doors for good. When something bad happens leaving Franca unable to work, Raff graciously offers to help. Begrudgingly, Franca accepts. As the two spend time together, Franca begins to realize she may have been wrong about Raff all along. 

Life has left its mark on Franca. She has been dealt several bad hands and has had to pick herself up off the ground more than once. She’s a strong woman with a vibrant spirit, but has a quiet fragility that’s not often seen. I could easily relate to her. 

Raff is a complete surprise and I am so in love with him. If Franca doesn’t want him, I’ll gladly volunteer as tribute! He’s a wonderful character and I can’t wait for readers to discover it for themselves!

Jaimie’s books always evoke strong emotions. I laugh, I cry, I empathize, I love, and I take these stories into my heart for safekeeping. Franca and Raff’s story is fun, heartfelt, and so beautiful! 

Christmas Ever After is the perfect holiday read. I highly recommend it and all of Jaimie’s books!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher via Net Galley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

Purchase Links

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Boldwood Books

About the Author

Jaimie Admans is the bestselling author of several romantic comedies – including The Little Christmas Shop on Nutcracker Lane and The Chateau of Happily-Ever-Afters. She lives in South Wales and was previously published by HQ Digital. Her new work for Boldwood, The Ever After Street Series, is based on the magical world of fairytales, the first title was released in Spring 2023. Learn more at jaimieadmans.com.

Review: Under The Covers by Rebecca Zanetti

Happy Re-Release Day!

Rebecca Zanetti's Maverick, Montana series from Entangled Brazen Publishing is being reissued by the author! 

The books have new pretty covers but have the same awesome stories!

The series has been rebranded Montana Mavericks.

Under The Covers stars local sheriff, Quinn Lodge and mysterious artist, Juliet Montgomery.

There's lots of mystery and even more smokin' hot chemistry!

Under The Covers is currently FREE to read on Kindle Unlimited!

About the Book

Opposites don’t attract. They ignite…

The small Montana town near the Kooskia Reserve seemed like the perfect place for Juliet Montgomery to hide from her not-so-law-abiding family. But when her peace is shattered by a break-in and threatening phone calls, it’s clear someone back in New York knows where she is. It’s time to plan her getaway and fast—but first, she needs to tie up a few loose ends and find out exactly what the town’s sexy cowboy sheriff is hiding.

Sheriff Quinn Lodge has enough demons of his own to know when someone’s hiding something, and he’s determined to uncover what’s beneath Juliet’s uptight city-girl exterior—preferably one piece of clothing at a time. But when their chemistry goes from fizzy to full-on explosive, things start getting complicated.

How can Juliet stay beneath the covers with Quinn, when doing so means blowing her cover?

**Previously published by Entangled Brazen. This is the same book with a different cover.

Excerpt

 

Juliet tensed the second the outside door clanged shut. So much for her brief reprieve. She turned around and sat on the highest rung of the ladder, her gaze on the hard wooden floor so far below her feet. Paintings still hung on the wall, and she needed to take them down. But first, she had to face the sheriff.

She’d known he’d show up after receiving her e-mail. Nerves jumped in her belly as she waited.

He strode into the main room of the art gallery and brought the scents of male and pine with him. Stopping several feet away, he looked up. “Juliet.”

“Sheriff.” She took a deep breath, trying to keep her focus on his dark eyes.

But that body deserved a second glance. Tight and packed hard, the sheriff wore faded jeans, a dark button-downed shirt, and a gun at his hip. Black hair swept away from a bronze face with rugged features. Not handsome, but definitely masculine and somehow, tough. Years ago, she’d liked tough. Many years ago.

He cocked his head to the side and studied her.

For months, he’d been studying her…that dark gaze probing deep, warming her in places she tried to control. But Quinn Lodge was all about control, and the smirk he gave promised she’d be the one relinquishing it. “Any other woman, I’d be worried about that top rung. Not you, though,” he murmured.

She smiled to mask her instant arousal from his gravelly voice and resorted to using a polite tone. “You don’t care if I fall?”

“I care. But you won’t fall. You’re the most graceful person I’ve ever met. Ever even seen.” Admiration and something deeper glimmered in his eyes.

She swallowed. “Thank you. Now perhaps we should get to the arguing part of the evening.”

“I’m not going to argue.” Stubbornness lined his jaw, at home and natural along the firm length. “Neither are you.”

While the words sounded like a peaceful overture, in truth, they were nothing but an order. She clasped her hands together and smoothed down her long skirt. When he used that tone, her panties dampened. If the boys from the private school who’d dubbed her “frigid virgin” could only see her now. “Good, no arguing. We agree.”

His grin flashed a dimple in his left cheek, and he shifted his weight. “You’re not leaving the gallery.”

“Yes, I am.” She should not look. She absolutely would not look. But she’d recognized his move when he’s shifted his weight…yes. A very impressive bulge filled out the sheriff’s worn jeans.

She swallowed, her ears ringing. Her thighs suddenly ached to part.

His eyebrows rose. “Juliet?”

Guilt flashed through her even as her eyes shot up. “Yes?”

His smile was devastating. “Would you like to finally discuss it?”

“Your erection?” The words slipped out before she could think. Oh God. She slapped a hand over her mouth.

He laughed, the sound male and free. “Here in the backcountry, ma’am, we prefer the term hard-on. But yes, let’s discuss the fact that I’m permanently erect around you. Tell me you’re finally ready to do something about it.”

Her heart bashed into her rib cage. “Like what?” she choked.

“Well now”— he tucked his thumbs in his pockets, his gaze caressing up her legs to her rapidly sharpening nipples— “I’ve never taken a woman on a ladder before, but the thought does have some possibilities. How flexible are you, darlin’?”

The spit dried up in her mouth, while warmth flowed through the rest of her. He wasn’t joking. If she gave the word, he’d be on her. Shock filled her at how badly she wanted the sheriff on her. Most men would be at least a little embarrassed by the tented jeans. Not Quinn Lodge. He wanted to explore the idea.

“While I appreciate your offer, I’d prefer we returned to settling the issue of the gallery.” Could she sound any less like a spinster from the eighteen hundreds? “I’m unable to pay the rent, and thus, I need to move on.” But where? The upcoming art show needed to be somewhere close by or nobody would attend. While she had no choice but to leave town right after the opening, at least she could leave on a triumphant note.

“I don’t need the rent. Let’s keep a running total, and after you’re hugely successful, you can pay me.” He ran a broad hand through his hair. “Stop being impossible.”

She wasn’t a charity case. Plus, the last person she wanted to owe was the sheriff. The man viewed the world in clear, unequivocal lines, and she lived in the gray area. A fact he could never know.

“I’m sorry, but I’m not taking advantage of you.” She was out of money, and no way would she stick around.

He sighed. “Juliet, I don’t need the money.”

The words from any other man would’ve been bragging. Not Quinn Lodge. He was merely being nice…and telling the truth. His family owned most of Montana, and he’d invested heavily in real estate. The guy owned many properties, including the two-story brick building that had held her gallery for the past few months, since she’d arrived in town.

She sighed. “I’m not owing you.”

His chin lowered.

Hers lifted.

A cell phone buzzed from his pocket. He drew it out, frowned at the number, and then looked back up at her. “I, ah, need to take this. Do you mind?”

“No.” Darn if his manners didn’t make her feel even more uncomfortable.

“Thanks.” He lifted the device to his ear. “Lodge here.”

He listened and slowly exhaled. “Thank you, Governor.” He shook his head. “I don’t think so… Yes, I understand what you are saying.” Dark eyes rose and warmed as they focused on Juliet’s hardened nipples. She’d cross her arms, but why hide? It wasn’t like the sheriff was concerned about the massive erection he was still sporting, and she could be just as nonchalant as he. She dragged her thoughts back to his ongoing conversation.

“I would, but I already have a date.” That dimple flashed again, this time longer. “Yes, I’m seeing someone—Juliet Montgomery. She owns the art gallery in town. Of course she’ll be at the dance as well as at the ride. Thank you very much.” He slid the phone into his pocket.

Tingles wandered down Juliet’s spine. Several of her fantasies regarding the sheriff included being part of his everyday life. Of course, many more centered on his nights. “We’re dating?”

“Well now,” only a true Montana man could drawl a sentence like that, “how about we reach an agreement?”

She frowned even as her clit sprang to attention. Her raging hormones would love to reach an agreement. “I’m not for sale, Quinn.”

He lost the smile. “I would never presume you were, darlin’. Here’s the deal—we both need help. How about we help each other?”


* * *

“Besides,” Quinn reached the bottom of the ladder and held up a hand, “aren’t you tired of dancing around this? For the last few months, we’ve danced around this.”

“That’s what responsible adults do.” Juliet automatically took his hand to descend. Electricity danced up her arm from his warm palm.

“Bullshit.” He helped her to the hard-tiled floor.

“You feel it, too.”

Yes, she did, and the crass language actually turned her on. But he didn’t know her, and he wouldn’t like her if he did. “I’ve chosen not to act on any temporary attraction.” As a tall woman, it truly unnerved her when she needed to tilt her head back to meet his gaze. “How tall are you, anyway?”

He shrugged. “Six four, last time I checked. How about you?”

“Five ten.”

He nodded. “Petite. Very petite.”

The man was crazy. She tugged her hand free. “I’m not dating you.”

“I know. We’re pretending.” He glanced around at the many paintings on the wall. “Are these from Sophie’s new collection?”

“Yes.” The damn man already knew his sister-in-law’s paintings adorned the walls.

“Didn’t you promise her an amazing showing for the opening of your gallery?” he asked.

“Yes.”

“Well, then. This is the only place to have an amazing showing, right?”

Wasn’t that just like a man to go right for the kill? Sophie was Juliet’s friend, one of her only friends, and the showing meant a lot to her. “You’re not being fair.”

He reached out and ran a finger down Juliet’s cheek, his gaze following the motion.

Heat flared from his touch, through her breasts, right down between her legs. “Stop.”

His hand dropped. “I need a pretend girlfriend. You need to keep the gallery open. This is a perfect agreement.”

Darn it. Temptation had her glancing around the spectacular space. Three rooms, all containing different types of Western art, made up the gallery. The main room already held most of the paintings created by Sophie Lodge. Rich, oil-based paintings showing life in Maverick, life on the reservation, and the wickedness of Montana weather. The showing would put both Sophie’s art and Juliet’s gallery on the Western-gallery map.

She wanted on that map. Perhaps badly enough to make a deal with the sheriff. Plus, she was tired of dancing around her attraction to Quinn. Would that attraction explode or fizzle if they spent time together? Frankly, it didn’t matter. She had to leave town soon. Why not appease her curiosity? “Okay, but keep your hands to yourself.”

“But—”

“No.” She pressed her hands on her hips. The man was too dangerous, too tempting. A woman had to keep some control, or Quinn would run wild. No question. “You’re creative, and this is your idea. If we pretend to date, you keep your hands off me.”

His eyes dropped to an amused, challenging expression. He held out both hands, palms up. “Tell you what, darlin’. These hands won’t touch you until you ask nicely. Very nicely.”

“That will never happen,” she snapped.

His left eyebrow rose. “I wondered if that red hair came with a temper.” Interest darkened his eyes to midnight. “So much passion locked up in such a classy package. I thought so.” He leaned into her space. “Be careful, or I’ll make you beg.”

Excerpt copyrighted by Rebecca Zanetti

My Review

I can't get enough of these yummy cowboys!!

Rebecca Zanetti sure knows how to write sexy cowboys! This book showcases Sheriff Quinn Lodge. He is noble, honest and sexy as hell! He has his hands full with Juliet Montgomery, the fiery-haired woman who’s recently opened the art gallery in town.

You don’t want to miss the action, suspense and the explosive passion. A must read for any romance reader!

FTC Disclaimer: I voluntarily read a copy of the book generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my thoughts or feelings about the book or the content of my review.

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About the Author

New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly and #1 Amazon bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has published more than sixty novels, which have been translated into several languages, with more than five million copies sold world-wide. Her books have received Publishers Weekly starred reviews and have been featured in Entertainment Weekly, Woman’s World, and Women’s Day Magazines. Her novels have also been included in Amazon best books of the year and have been favorably reviewed in both the Washington Post and the New York Times Book Reviews. Rebecca has ridden in a locked Chevy trunk, has asked the unfortunate delivery guy to release her from a set of handcuffs, and has discovered the best silver mine shafts in which to bury a body…all in the name of research. Honest. Find Rebecca at:  www.RebeccaZanetti.com