Book picks similar to
Maya (A Dark McKenna Story) by Shayne Ford
second-chance
contemporary
freebie
second
Run
Allison LaFleur - 2019
Sleepless, I studied my surroundings—the aged family photos, the antique dresser, the stenciled ladder-back rocking chair—and found the sense of permanence they offered somewhat comforting. Knowing one of the matriarch’s of his family had sewn each green and blue patch by hand made the quilt feel like an embrace, and I held it tight like a security blanket. I didn’t know Josh. We’d barely spoken since I’d opened my eyes. He didn’t know me either. I didn’t even know me. Still, the faint sound of his breathing in the next room reminded me I wasn’t alone, that my protector was nearby. I guess when you desperately need a hero, you’ll attach that title to anyone who’ll wear it. He hadn’t turned me away or betrayed me when I begged him not to call the sheriff even though I couldn’t give him a reason why. In my desperate state, that made him my champion. Even so, I was panicked and fighting to remain still while every part of me wanted to run. It’s okay. You’re okay. He’s right in the next room. He’ll hear you if you scream. He won’t let anyone hurt you. I repeated those words in my head over and over, but while they kept me from bolting out the door, they did nothing to bring me peace. The night seemed endless. If not for the sound of his breathing and the tick-tick-tick of the clock, I would have thought time itself stood still... Grab your copy and read *FREE* in Kindle Unlimited today!
Twisted Fate
K.L. Bryce - 2020
I fell for her crooked smile and ocean blue eyes the first time I met her in the fifth grade. In high school, no one understood me the way she did. Paige is the only girl I've ever trusted enough to let into my world.But I buried those feelings the day she chose my brother nine years ago.Fate seems to have a sick sense of humor because my newest client decided to sponsor her vlog. I advised them to cut her loose.It’s not personal, it’s business.And besides, I have another proposition that could give us something we both want.But my plan to stay cool, calm, and in control vanishes the moment her lips touch mine.She should run fast in the other direction.My soul is damaged goods.I could never give her the love she deserves.Luke Mason. My gorgeous, loner friend from high school. The boy I almost fell for…until Fate led me into the arms of his twin brother, and eventually, a broken heart.If it wasn’t for the business proposition Luke makes—and one I desperately need—I’d run fast in the other direction.What wasn’t a part of our deal? The oh-so-hot kiss we shared during one of my infamous moments of spontaneity. A mistake neither one of us plans to make again.But when our stares get way more intense, his eyes linger too long on my mouth, and his touch ignites something deep inside I haven’t allowed myself to feel in years, our promise of “strictly platonic” goes up in flames.No matter what happens, I can’t let myself fall for him.But I’m scared I already have.A love story spanning over twelve years, TWISTED FATE is a deep, forbidden love romance with LOL moments, passion and angst, and all the feels. Can be read as a standalone.
The Inn by the Cove: A Sweet, Small Town Romance
Ellen Joy - 2021
So, why can’t she just hate him?Previously published as "Inn with You."Zoe has dedicated her life to working at the family inn, where she lives with her son, but the business has fallen on hard times. She has ideas about how to turn things around; but, her father owns the place and he’s stuck in his ways.To make matters worse, Zoe learns that her father has a silent partner, Ethan’s father. Ethan has a trust fund, but Zoe’s not impressed when he comes to town with his own ideas about what’s best for the inn, as well as an ultimatum from his father. If the inn doesn’t start turning a profit, he’ll force a sale.Tensions rise as the two struggle to agree on anything. But, neither can deny that they’re starting to fall for one another. As Zoe and Ethan struggle with their feelings, and their plans to save the inn, Ethan realizes he can’t carry out his father’s wishes without risking whatever it is he has with Zoe.Will Ethan help Zoe save the inn or will family obligations get in the way? Enjoy this first in series, enemies to lovers romance!Then, once you fall in love with Camden Cove, you can enjoy the rest of this sweet, shoretown romance series:The Inn by the CoveThe Farmhouse by the CoveThe Restaurant by the CoveThe Christmas Cottage by the CoveThe Bakery by the CoveAlso, check out Ellen Joy's sweet western romance series, Prairie Valley:Her Second Chance CowboyHer Next Door CowboyHer Pretend CowboyHer Fresh Start CowboyHer Christmas Cowboy Her Last Chance Cowboy
Her Billionaire Inventor
Dobi Daniels - 2018
She’d been emotionally scarred from her last relationship and has just managed to pay off the mountain of debts she was saddled with.Now all she wants for Christmas is to rediscover Christmas joy—no love in the equation, and what better place than her hometown Dexington where she recalled spending the happiest times of her life. She is determined to stick with her plan and not even a chance encounter with Phillip—billionaire hospital heir and inventor, and the town’s most eligible bachelor—can change her mind.Until she discovers he is the boy she kissed in high school.Phillip Dexington is finally about to launch a new medical device after having his last invention stolen by his former girlfriend and sold to his archenemy. He’s determined that nothing must go wrong this time around—which means avoiding a relationship at all costs—and is content with spending Christmas with the children at the orphanage.But when Phillip runs into Sarah Nash, the girl who stole his heart in high school, his world flips upside down. She’s only in town for Christmas, and the time before the launch party is Phillip’s only chance at determining if she is the one.Will they open their hearts to the fullness of Christmas and give love a second chance, or will their trust issues rob them of a happily ever after?This is a sweet/clean emotional scars Christmas medical billionaire romance with no cliffhangers and a guaranteed HEA.
First Love, Second Chance
Vesper Young - 2020
She convinced me to follow my dreams, move across the country, and found a tech empire worth billions.Well, I did that. And none of it compared to having Kara in my arms.A twist of fate puts Kara back in my life, and I’m not going to let this chance go. I’ve never wanted anyone more. Her smile, her laugh, I need them like I need to breathe. I can’t resist her, and I don’t want to.The only problem: she refuses to let me back in her heart.That’s not an option. And I’ll do anything to prove it to her.KaraLuke’s crashed back into my life, and I’m anything but ready. When he left ten years ago, my heart shattered into a million pieces. First loves do that, don’t they? I’ve spent the past years duct-taping it back together. Then I built a wall around my feelings so it won’t happen again.Now he’s here. I can’t deny the connection we have. I convinced myself it was young love, but even now, just one look in his eyes and I know it was real.I want him. I want him more than I ever have before.But I can’t give in. I have to fight it, for a dozen reasons. He’s my ex. He’s my boss. When he left, it broke me—how can I ever risk that again?Oh, right, and the biggest reason.I never told him we have a son.First Love, Second Chance is a sweet and steamy standalone secret child romance with no cheating and a guaranteed HEA.Each book can be read on its own.1. Real Love, Fake Marriage (Mindy & Deacon)2. First Love, Second Chance (Kara & Lucas)
Diving into Love
Kat Bellemore - 2020
She didn’t need another.When Bree Garrett’s former college roommate invites Bree to move to Starlight Ridge, a small tourist town on the Californian coast, she is all too happy to leave the deserts of New Mexico and the memories of her former life. She only has three conditions:One- No one can find out about her fear of water—totally embarrassing when you live next to the ocean.Two- No seafood. She can't stomach it. Yeah, she sees the irony of points number one and two.Three- No blind dates. The last thing she needs is a relationship. Her ex-fiancé would agree.Easier said than done when the only job available is at a surf shop and the owner, Caleb, is under the impression that Bree has applied to be a scuba instructor, and not a cashier, as she had intended.Bree tries to clear up the misunderstanding, but it’s hard when she seems to lose her voice—and her breath—every time Caleb is near. How could she not when he happens to be attractive, single and, as it turns out, also doesn't like seafood?Bree and Caleb struggle against the pull of the tide that seems determined to bring them together. But, despite their differences, maybe this is one battle that is okay to lose.
The Ex Proposal
Nia Arthurs - 2021
Resisting his roguish good looks and worldly charm is… a little more complicated.As West drags old feelings back to the surface, one problem becomes very clear.He won’t settle down in Belize and she’s got roots too deep there.Can Giselle stick to the plan without losing her heart? Or will she fall for someone destined to leave her?
The Ex Proposal is a BWWM fake relationship romance, with a splash of humor, a dash of heat and tons of heart, set in the tropical paradise of Belize, Central America.
Bubbles with Brunch
Ainsley St. Claire - 2021
Only the title has changed.If your best friend was arrested for murder? Would you lie or tell the truth?AxelI don’t want complicated, drama, or serious in the women I date.That was until I met her.Mia’s different—she’s beautiful, smart, and knows baseball better than I do.Her close friend is arrested for murder and life becomes complicated.Chaos engulfs her.Drama colors all parts of her life.And, maybe serious wouldn’t be so bad.MiaLife’s not as easy for me as people think.Sure I’m CEO of a Fortune 50 company I founded.I’ve got a group of girlfriends who’d doing anything for me.But I can’t meet a decent guy to save my life until I met him.Axel makes my toes curl and my heart melt.But the timing may just be wrong.Bubbles with Brunch is a romance with a happy ending and the first book in the The Stiletto Sisters series. This series is about strong women who need strong men. This book can be read as a stand alone that highlights the women seen in the Venture Capitalist Series and the Tech Billionaire series.
An Unexpected Find (Silver Falls #1)
Hayleigh Sol - 2020
They might be perfect for each other...but they haven’t actually met.Will they continue to play it safe or will they risk another heartbreak for a chance at love?Best-selling author Jax Rowland is writing the first book of his next spy thriller series and it's not going well. If he can't create a deeper connection between his characters, he faces more negative reviews from readers fed up with his one-dimensional Bond-girls.Dr. Sophie Grimaldi is successful, single and content to remain that way. Disappointed (or worse) by romantic relationships all her life, the only interest she has in men these days are her delicious book boyfriends. When Sophie discovers a set of handwritten notes between the pages of a library book, curiosity quickly turns to exasperation over the author’s cringe-worthy attempt at a steamy sex scene. Automatically, she scribbles her own version, forgetting all about the page when she returns the book. She never imagines the author will find her revision.Embarrassed to view his work through a mystery critic’s eyes, Jax offers Sophie a job writing the love scenes of his next novel. As sexy emails and flirty texts turn into a friendship teeming with chemistry, Sophie and Jax agree to finally meet in person. But, a series of missed connections and unexpected twists make it clear that fate has other plans for them.Will they heed the warning signs or choose to write their own destiny?**Note: An Unexpected Find was originally published with the title Book Review. This revised version (12/2020) can be read as a standalone or the first in the Silver Falls series. Due to mature content, this book is recommended for readers 18+.
This Is Fate
Zee Irwin - 2021
He’s once-bitten and twice-shy. Together, their passion is—complicated.Maddie McComber is driven to succeed. Working her way through Harvard by tending bar, the dual MBA and law student isn’t about to lose focus by letting any of her regulars take her to bed. But the flirty banter she shares with the well-dressed older man definitely makes her tingle in all the right places.Daniel Jones has no faith in love. The high-flying billionaire divorce attorney knows from both personal and professional experience that almost all perfect affairs end in expensive disasters. But the way the attractive grad student at the pub sees past his wealth and acknowledges his true self has him totally hooked.Moved when he rescues her from an attacker, Maddie starts to feel her anti-dating regulations may require serious review. But though Daniel recognizes she’s everything he wants, his heart remains mired in the pain of the past.Can these two legal eagles soar over their fears and into a happy future?This Is Fate is the standalone first book in the delicious Fated Loves contemporary romance series. If you like strong women, conflicted men, and steamy open doors, then you’ll adore Zee Irwin’s gorgeous tale.
Home to Stay (Clocktower Romance)
Becke Turner - 2020
She’s determined to open Robey’s Rewards to support her family and honor her husband, but first she has to win the only available lease in historic Sunberry. Wouldn’t you know, Ryan is her competitor? And she for sure won’t be falling for him in the middle of a fierce competition.Desperate to keep her three teens inside the law, Ava moves to her hometown. Renovating Gram’s old farm will keep them out of trouble while she negotiates a lease in the historic district. Just when she thinks she’s achieved success, her wayward boys find more trouble. Worse, their rescuer turns out to be the Marine who led her deceased husband on his fatal patrol.She’s not falling for his kindness, his help with her boys, or his help repairing the farm. Besides, he’s trying to ease his guilt by helping out the poor widow and her kids. She almost lets down her guard until she learns he’s her competitor on the only available lease. Too bad for him because she and her boys are going to kick him to the curb and win that lease.Five years haven’t eased Marine officer Ryan Murphy’s guilt about losing the best man in his unit. Now, he’s losing his heart to the man’s widow. But how does he choose between a comrade and a widow, especially when the family he never believed he could have is right in front of him? If you like a second chance romance with a courageous woman willing to risk everything for family, you’ll enjoy Becke Turner’s award-winning romance HOME TO STAY. Escape to the Sunberry, North Carolina world of romance, pick up your copy of HOME TO STAY, today.
Her Naughty Cowboys: Boxed Set
Pepper Swan - 2020
I’m in love with 3 men of my dreams.So, I ran . . . and they followed.We’ve been best friends since we were kids, and we’re still best friends.But can these rugged cowboys really be my lovers? It’s my biggest fantasy.They’ve been like brothers to each other, and now that I’ve made a mess of my life, I’m going to need their loyalty and friendship to get through the blizzard that’s swirling outside, and the emotions that swirl inside my head.Sparks fly when each cowboy vows to protect, comfort and shield me from my own misplaced guilt.Soon we’re sharing not only our beds, but our most intimate desires.Once the fire ignites, it’s impossible to put out and what happens next is sure to consume us all.Now that I’ve had all three of these cowboys, one cowboy will never be my happily ever after.Book Two - 3 Cowboys And The VirginI’ve moved in with the cowboy of my dreams.Actually, I’ve moved in with 3 cowboys of my dreams.I’m so very bad.I’ve been waiting to lose my virginity with Mr. Right, but I may have waited too long.There are 3 Mr. Rights who want to protect me, guard me and love me.How can I ever choose?William is warm, witty and sinfully sexy. Oh, and did I mention he’s a billionaire?Joel is 100% alpha and will go to the mat for me.Kyle is a sweet-talking flirt who I’ve crushed on since we were teens.When the four of us have no choice but to move in together, we start a fire that can’t be put out and threatens to consume us all in its oh-so-hot blaze.Now all I want is another night with William . . . with Joel . . . with Kyle.Because truth be told, virginity is highly overrated.Book Three - 3 Cowboys For The LibrarianGetting lost in a romance novel is my passion.Getting lost in a real life romance with three gorgeous cowboys… ecstasy!I’d had a one-night stand with Gunner Blackthorn a couple years ago that never went anywhere. He’d been too drunk to remember it, and I’d been too desperate to remind him.When he strolls back into my life in need of a cook/housekeeper out on his ranch I apply for the job after my hours at the library get cut in half. I knew there were two other cowboys living on Gunner’s ranch. What I didn’t know is how much I’d be attracted to all three of them.Rory, the big, brooding ex-military hunk, is working to get past his crippling PTSD.Kit, the sandy-haired, easy-going charmer, only wants to please me.And Gunner, my secret heartthrob, hasn’t had a real drink since our one-night stand.Soon I’m not only ordering in food, but I’m ordering in their affections. I learn rather quickly that all those books I’ve read about love and romance don’t compare to the heat, passion and ecstasy of the real deal… especially with three hotter-than-a-branding-iron cowboys!Her Naughty Cowboys Boxed Set is rich with sexy ménage scenes, single and multiple partner scenes, and all done with a touch of humor that just might melt your Kindle. As with all my books, a HEA is always guaranteed… Thanks for reading!
Winning the Cowboy Billionaire : A Chappell Brothers Novel
Emmy Eugene - 2020
Oh, and did Olivia Hudson mention his money?He's got a ton of that too.As the oldest son in the Chappell family, it's up to Spur to lead his brothers into the next generation of raising and selling championship racehorses. He loves it with his whole heart and soul, but a horse can't keep him warm at night.So when Olli Hudson, one of his neighbors, asks him to be her arm candy for one night to woo an investor, the worst he thinks can happen is his eyes might get permanently stuck up in his head for how often he rolls them.He wasn't expecting to be swept off his feet by the five-and-half-foot powerhouse of a woman with a nose that can sniff out the purest scents...and all of his hidden feelings for her.Will Olli be able to win over the cowboy billionaire? Or will she lose everything--including her heart?Start this brand-new series by Emmy Eugene and meet the Chappell family of cowboys in the beautiful Kentucky Bluegrass region!
Her Billionaire Co-Nanny (Candyman Sweet Family Billionaires, #1)
Shanna Delaney - 2021
Her new job as a summer nanny to the ultra-wealthy could make all the difference.Richard manages international relations for his family’s massive candy company, and coming back to the family’s New Hampshire lake house for the summer is like coming home. But this time the house contains more than just family—his sister has brought along a nanny. A cute nanny.When circumstances pull Richard’s sister back to the West Coast, Richard and Emma agree to share responsibility for the kids.As attraction flares, Emma and Richard have to face their differences and decide: Is this just a summer sizzle, or can they each change perspective enough to make whatever’s between them last?
Love Bound
Rebecca Ryan - 2020
As head of Colton Security I should have seen it coming, been able to protect them. But I didn't. It’s taken me years to find love again, to trust my heart and soul to another woman. And now, he's after her too.
"If he's right, then I’m in danger—in danger of losing myself. I've only been in love twice before." -- Claire Russo
I lost my parents at nineteen and was forced to raise my sisters and brother. I barely made it through vet school. Maintaining my practice is about all I can handle while nursing a broken heart. And then along comes Finn Colton. He bought our family inn, the place we all grew up, and stole my heart in the process.Set on the Maine coast, this small town, security-hero love story is just the first in a series about the Russo sisters and their brother. Meet them all in their debut story.