Merwin --Magic barrel / Bernard Malamud --About marriage / Denise Levertov --from Jane Austen / Virginia Woolf --Princess and the tin box / James Thurber.

    She vowed she’d never speak to him again. And she hasn’t.Until he shows up with Staff Sergeant Thor, a German shepherd who had been injured in the same battle in which his handler—Marcus’s best friend-- was killed. Thor has a bad case of PTSD, and Marcus knows only Jessie can save the dog. But can Jessie bear the close contact with the man who broke her heart? And can even she heal a dog so desperately wounded? A tale of trust, second chances and respecting people for who they are. ORIGINALY PUBLISHED IN SEAL of My Dreams anthology

    Brooks! All five standalone full-length novels feature protective alpha males that fight for the women of their dreams. No matter if accidental fake marriages, surprise baby gifts or second chances - this collection has everything you need for long and steamy nights in your bedroom! Book 1 – Never Over You Alright, before you hear his side, let me tell you mine. I was just cleaning his room. I swear that’s it! I mean, he’s my boss for Pete’s sake. But Anthony came out of the shower dripping wet and naked from head to toe. I tried to look away, but IT was right there. And boy was it happy to see me. That’s so not my fault, right? Cute butt, killer abs, bubblegum lips that were begging for a kiss. How could I say no? Turns out he’s had a crush on me since high school. His dad’s freaking out, but Anthony’s got his own billions. So big, bad Daddy Whore-bucks can kiss my tight little… you get the idea. But I think Anthony’s having second thoughts. Will he be my sweetheart or leave me heartbroken? Book 2 – Hate To Want You Oh My Gorgeous eyes! Is that Xander–freaking– Selby? Bad boy muscle-man with a gargantuan-sized… bank account. Wow what a dirty little mind you’ve got there. Be patient. I’m still getting to his best parts. There’s a heart of gold hidden under muscles the size of New York City. He's got the face of an angel and moves like the devil. The first time I saw him my legs went to Jell-O, and I got all tongue-tied. Now tell me something, and be honest. Is it in bad taste to tie up your boss with a garter belt? Or run your tongue up and over his mountain and valley abs? Book 3 – Let’s Play Pretend “Of course I’ll pretend to be your wife.” I can’t believe these words came out of my mouth when my sister’s lawyer asked me to be his fake-wife. I don't like his plan to fake it at all, but desperate situations need desperate measures. Although I have enough to deal with on my own, I’d do anything for my family. Well, maybe I can take this lemon and make lemonade. After all, acting like I’m in love with Jonathan is easy. Too easy. The way he looks at me, touches me, protects me. It just feels so unbelievably good. All of a sudden, I'm not sure if this is fake anymore... Book 4 – Protecting Her The billions in my bank account are worthless if I can’t save her. There are times in your life when one decision can change everything. Mine was to risk my life for the woman of my dreams. Millie. Once I saw her, I knew it’d be her and no one else. Her gaze calls out to the hero in me. Her touches awaken the man. The problem? I’m not the only one who wants her. And her enemies will do everything to get her. Even the unthinkable. If they try to hurt her, I will give them nothing but pain. It’s time for this to end. There can only be one winner. Book 5 – Unexpected Love It was supposed to be a one-night stand. Now I’m carrying his baby. Oh-oh. I guess fate has a way of writing its own stories.

    From Halloween to Valentines this group of friends will find everything they’ve wanted. Tami, Layla, Penny and Keke have been friends from the beginning of their freshman year in college, but in the three years since they’ve become closer than just friends, they’re now family. Their lives are about to change as they meet just the men to handle their curves. Collie My life was falling apart just weeks ago, and now, I’ve met the most amazing women that have taken me in and made a spot for me in their lives. No one has done that for me since my parents died and it makes me hope that someday I’ll meet someone the way they’ve all met men they adore. I mean, they all feel hard in the last few months, and while I’m curvier than they are, they give me hope it’ll happen. I’m happy helping take some of the workload off Tami, even if it means waking up at three in the morning on Valentine’s Day to serve people that likely are going to be as over the top as Tami and the others are with their men. It’ll keep me busy and hopefully not remind me that I’m still all alone at night when the others leave. I just wasn’t quite prepared for the girls to play cupid, or that the cinnamon roll loving Mike would be such a hunk. What’s a girl to do but go along with it and hope, her heart doesn’t get shredded in the process? Mike I know I’m the butt of the guy’s joke, their claims that the only thing I love are the cinnamon rolls at Tami’s shop, but hey, I’ll take their yummy goodness over women that are heartless. I have my reasons why I don’t date, ones that my friends don’t know about, and ones that not a single woman has begun to change in six years. So what if that curvy blonde makes me want to take a bite out of her, taste her sweetness rather than Tami’s cinnamon rolls for once? Learning that blonde is Tami’s new hire here at the shop, not to mention knows how to make these cinnamon rolls is all it takes to break my resolve, but one kiss is all I need to know she’s mine. The guys think I’m obsessed with these rolls, that’s nothing with the obsession with Collie’s that hit. The others all got their curvy girls and I’m claiming this one as mine, plus get my favorite treat on top of it. How’s that for a sweet Valentine’s treat? Collie’s Cupids is book 5 in the Curvy Girls Holidays Series. If you’re looking for a quick read with alpha men, curvy girls, strong language, no cheating, and HEAs, you’ve found the right book. It's intended for an adult audience that will leave you longing for friends to play cupid and bring you an obsessive, sweets loving man this Valentine’s Day.

    From grief and loss, like a Phoenix rises from the ashes, he’s built his way to the top of his profession. He can have anything and anyone he wants in life. Except for the one thing he desires most: revenge on the man who killed his sister. Until, that is, a chance meeting brings him face to face with a beautiful and bewitching woman. Desperately in need of legal help, a mistake leads Chloe to Hendrix’s door. He’s fascinated by her at first, but when he finds out her connection to his haunted past, he knows she holds the key to the payback he’s craved for so long. But using Chloe to avenge his sister’s death will mean hurting Chloe, and Hendrix has to weigh up what he wants more: revenge on his enemy, or a ‘happily ever after’ with the woman of his dreams…

    He has no manners and doesn’t think twice about the weight of his words. Why him? He must have slipped something in my chai tea. Nigel When I woke up this morning, I didn’t plan to meet the woman I wasn’t strong enough to walk away from. But she’s here. In this coffee shop. And she answers my questions with more questions. It should be irritating as hell, not sexy. Or maybe somebody slipped something in my coffee.

    A mage cop on his first assignment learns the world isn't as black and white as hopedA jump mage and a starship with matching needs turn out to be a magnet for troubleDigging in 1940s New York City awakens a monster--and brings in the elite of the FaeThe protected heir of an interstellar dictatorship is called to a battle no one expected him to fightAn explosive collection of four novellas from science fiction and fantasy author Glynn Stewart, spanning his ONSET, Starship's Mage, Changeling Blood and Exile universes, including two brand new urban fantasy novellas.  Includes:ONSET: Murder by MagicStarship's Mage: Episode 1Fae, Flames and FedorasAshen Stars

    A hot cowboy meets a sexy guest at a dude ranch and gets the ride of his life. A deadly storm may bring a detective and the woman he loves together...or tear them apart. And a woman expecting to go on a first date finds herself caught up in an investigation into a terrorist plot - and falling for the secret agent.Enjoy four original Harlequin romance novellas from a variety of genres to suit any mood - sweet and sexy, paranormal and suspenseful - in A Taste of Romance anthology!Anthology includes:The Reaper's Heart by Michele Hauf (Harlequin Nocturne)The Good Girl by Tara Taylor Quinn (It Happened in Comfort Cove series, Harlequin Superromance)Any Man of Mine by Debbi Rawlins (Made in Montana series, Harlequin Blaze)Secret Agent Seduction by Jennifer Morey (Vengeance in Texas series, Harlequin Romantic Suspense)

    But now, ten years later, he’s offering her a sexy “do-over” of that less-than-satisfying night, and Renee finds his offer hard to refuse. Jake might have blundered their first time together, but he’s all about second chances, and this time he’s playing for keeps.Meet Me at MidnightFrom Friends . . . To Lovers . . . To Soulmates.Shane Witmer and Alyssa Harte have been best friends all their lives, but it’s been years since he’s felt more than brotherly affection for her. When Alyssa decides it’s time to actively seek a committed relationship with a man, Shane is determined to convince her that’s he’s the only man for the job, and show her that best friends make even better lovers. Seducing SantaALL SHE WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS . . . All Faith Roberts wants for Christmas is one sexy night with Matthew Carlton, the hot, gorgeous pediatric surgeon posing as Santa for a visit to the children’s ward where she volunteers. Matthew has been interested in Faith for months and is more than willing to fulfill her naughty wishes, and more. As Faith seduces her Santa, It’s Matthew who steals her heart. She might have only asked for one night, but Matthew is determined to show her that he’s the kind of gift that keeps on giving. Originally part of JINGLE BELL ROCK anthology

    He doesn’t want to be drawn to the newcomer in town who shows up with a newborn and a dangerous secret. Emery Young will do what it takes to protect her sister and her niece, even when it could cost her everything.

    Cara I am trying to make it on my own in the world. But I can't get Chase out of my head, and I’m not sure I want to. After Chase defends Cara from a sleazy customer at her waitress job, their mutual longing explodes into life, and the two of them can no longer ignore their feelings for each other. A romance with an alpha male, a virgin, and HEA. The Billionaire Biker’s Virgin Nicole My fiancé cheated on me with my best friend. I decide to take the honeymoon anyway, without the groom of course. When my reservation is given away, Kane steps in to save me. I never knew what passion or love felt like… until Kane. Kane I am a billionaire… and a biker. I live life on my terms. I collect businesses and women almost like trophies…. until Nicole. After Kane breaks through her defenses, they discover a love that survives hurdles and misunderstandings. A short story romance with an alpha tattooed biker, a virgin, and HEA. DON’T HIDE FROM ME Cassie I’m a simple woman. I have dated a few men; nothing to exciting. I am a twenty-four-year-old virgin. No, I’m not saving it for marriage. But I am saving it for someone that will make it good. Van I am a tattooed, biker that has been around the block. I love women and never settle for just one. Until I find the brown-eyed virgin that is mine for the taking. Van and Cassie fall in lust at first sight from across the room. One thinks it is a one-night stand, one isn’t so sure. Join Van and Cassie in their story of a first-time romance that becomes more. A short story romance with an alpha tattooed biker, a virgin, and HEA. This is a standalone novella. Hope Ford writes short, steamy, sweet romances. There is almost always an alpha male (because who doesn’t love an alpha male) and a woman he makes his queen. Sit back, grab a glass of wine, and get lost in this happily ever after story – that’s also a little naughty.

    Come take a ride through your wildest fantasies!Crow, pretending to be someone else gets old. He’s ready to be himself with her. Sasha, a veteran who wants to find peace from the memories for her and the secret inside of her. Can he show her that the war might not be over, but he’s willing to fight by her side until it is? The Graffiti Street Guardians MC series features bikers who step in to save veterans, domestic violence victims, and runaways. Taking the law into their own hands when necessary. This is a instalove, short story, standalone romance. No cliffhangers. No cheating.If you love short romances with steamy sex scenes and a suspenseful love story, then you’ll love this book.

    I didn't know what I was missing before I found Ayla. She was a stranger that made my heart race and my body hot. All I had to do was get my lips on hers and give her the temptation." Mountain Man's Proposal "Her smile was innocent, but her body was so damn hot. She got a job and I got a new outlook on life. She brought out the side of me that I didn’t even know was alive. With her, I started to think about the future." Mountain Man's Bride "He was back and everything was changing. He wanted something from me, more than I first thought. It was hard to think when he was near and now Chris was too close. His lips were so demanding and I yearned for the power that he possessed over my body." Mountain Man's Secret Baby "Just like the tall peaks of Alaska… Ethan is untamed and rough around the edges. No one knows why he’s here in Nome, But something draws me to his stormy eyes… And I lose control of everything." Mountain Man's Fever is a complete series box set. As always, lots of love and romance and a very satisfying HEA!

    Flowers and felines. Celebrate this Valentine's Day with your sweethearts of the human and fuzzy varieties! Nothing is more heart-warming than kisses from the pet who adores you and the man who loves you, so snuggle up with VALENTINE PETS & KISSES -- an anthology of fourteen sweet romances from USA Today bestselling and award-winning authors -- and strike the perfect mood for moonlit walks and candlelight dinners with your pet and sweetheart.Valentine Hound Dog - Rachelle AyalaA fashion designer and her basset hound puppy convince a burned ex-firefighter that beauty is never skin deep and neither is love.The Crazy Girl’s Handbook - DelSheree GladdenWatching her nephews was supposed to be a fun and relaxing weekend for Greenly, not a never ending disaster all witnessed by the best blind date she ever stood up. The Vet's Valentine Gift - J.L. CampbellA veterinarian is caught between his job, an ex, a menagerie and love. Can a little Cupid fix things by Valentine’s Day?Her Perfect Catch - K.L. BradyYears of faithful dog-sitting pays sweet dividends when a struggling sports writer scores tickets to the Super Bowl and encounters her favorite football player.Inflamed - Jade KerrionA firefighter running from his past convinces a hard-luck single mother to believe in happy endings.Remember When - Hope Welsh Laura and Brent really tried to make their marriage work, but in the end, it just wasn't meant to be--or was it?Your Biggest Fan? - Sydney Aaliyah MichelleSnowed in with the man of her dreams, a football fan and her dog find love.The Feline Fix - Caroline Bell FosterA scientist questions her cat’s loyalty when it comes to love and a hunky policeman.Trembling Hearts - Suzette RiddickA daring young woman crashes into the life of a disfigured recluse and his pooch. Can love be far behind?Valentino, Be Mine - Tina D.C. HayesSparks fly when two people who can't stand each other wind up dog-sitting a rambunctious little Yorkie that needs a new home. Lost and Found - Jeanne BannonStuck with her ex’s puppy, a young teacher meets a new man after a series of unfortunate events. Surviving San Francisco - Susan OloierA small town girl survives San Francisco after she hits a cat and falls for a handsome veterinarian.19 Ivy Lane - Aubrey WynneA mysterious woman and her cat befriend a postman and set tongues wagging on Ivy Lane. But when he delivers a long-awaited letter, will his heart be “returned to sender?”Three Plus Three - Cindy Flores MartinezA grieving widow and her beloved doggie meet a handsome widower the day before Valentine’s Day.