Fifteen extraordinary stories. One bestselling universe. It’s the Twenty-Second Century. The galaxy has opened up to humanity as a hyperactive beehive of stargates and new technologies, and we suddenly find ourselves in a vast playground of different races, environments, and cultures. There’s just one catch: we are pretty much at the bottom of the food chain, and there’s only one way for humanity to move up—by becoming mercenaries. In every mercenary’s life, though, there comes a time when things go wrong and even the best laid plans go awry. When they do, though, the best mercs fall back and work out new plans, and you can bet on one thing—hope is not their strategy. Whether you’re a kid looking to get off your planet, or an unarmed merc facing an overwhelming force, or even the sole survivor of a pirate attack, there’s always an edge—and it’s up to the merc to find and exploit it! Edited by bestselling authors and universe creators Chris Kennedy and Mark Wandrey, “Hope is Not a Strategy” includes all-new stories in the Four Horsemen universe by some of the bestselling Indie authors currently in the business. These authors take on various aspects of the universe, giving you additional insight into a galaxy that isn’t at war…but definitely isn’t at peace. There’s only one thing for sure in the 4HU—anything’s possible…for a fistful of credits! Inside, you’ll find: Preface by Chris Kennedy Golden Ticket by Jonathan P. Brazee The Tide Changes by Craig Martelle Something You Are Not by Kevin Steverson Hijacked! by Terry Mixon The Wagner Method by Josh Hayes Paying the Price by Scott Moon Without a Shot by Chris Fox Raid by Mark Wandrey Second Chances by Kevin McLaughlin The Problem of the Qualis by Brian Niemeier Eye on the Prize by Nathan Hystad Earworm by Robert E. Hampson A Guilded Affair by Chris Kennedy Sunset by A.K. DuBoff Survivor by Kacey Ezell

     When a terrorist plot results in the detonation of several nuclear devices across the West Coast, the Frasers are thrown into disarray and their strained familial relationships are tested as they watch society collapse around them. Tens of millions of people are killed, injured and driven away from their homes as the result of a sinister plot that the government and its citizens are struggling to understand. With their older daughter lost in the chaos, the Frasers must somehow pull together to support each other and fight to reunite their family. Darkness Rising is a thrilling post-apocalyptic series that follows the survivors of a massive terrorist attack that isn't quite what it seems. As you learn more about the Fraser family and a few brave government agents who are attempting to unravel the horror and mystery behind the attacks, you'll soon discover that not everything in the apocalypse is as it appears to be. Written as a collaboration between Justin Bell and #1 bestselling post-apocalyptic author Mike Kraus, Darkness Rising is a gripping, unique and timely take on the post-apocalyptic genre, and is one that will leave you breathless with every turn of the page. This complete edition of Darkness Rising features all six books in the series, each one full of action, suspense and drama as the Fraser family struggles to survive the end of days.

    Battles of a different sort now loom, and if Rika wants to guide her people forward, she’ll need to officially accept the mantle of responsibility. So long as she can rise to the challenge amidst the war that still rages against Nietzschea….

    LeighTAKEN by Natasha KnightA LITTLE LIKE DESTINY by Lisa SuzanneONE IS A PROMISE by Pam GodwinSURVIVAL OF THE RICHEST by Skye Warren

    Its discovery throws into question everything we know about the origins of mankind. Inside lies incredible technology, proof of a culture far more advanced than our own. Something dark lurks within, eager to resume a war as old as mankind. When it is unleashed it heralds the end of our species’ reign. A plague of werewolves spreads across the world. A sunspot larger than anything in recorded history begins to grow. Yet both pale in comparison to the true threat, the evil the werewolves were created to fight. "It's like Indiana Jones went through the Stargate and ended up in Aliens versus Predator." - One of the author's totally biased friends. This collection gathers No Such Thing As Werewolves, No Mere Zombie, Vampires Don't Sparkle, and The Great Pack. It's over 1,500 pages!

    Someone's hopes. Another's dreams.Welcome to Linden Falls, a quaint Vermont town where friends, family, and guests put their trust in the local lore and branches of the Wishing Tree to bring their hopes to life. Enjoy the introduction of Linden Falls and a peek into the lives of its residents and guests in this free prologue novella, then join six bestselling authors as they bring you six heartwarming stories of love, loss, and the hopes of turning of turning lost dreams into second chances. Don’t miss a Wishing Tree book! Book 1: The Wishing Tree – prequel/prologue book Book 2: I Wish.. by Amanda ProwseBook 3: Wish You Were Here by Kay Bratt Book 4: Wish Again by Tammy L. Grace Book 5: Workout Wishes & Valentine Kisses by Barbara Hinske Book 6: A Parade of Wishes by Camille Di MaioBook 7: Careful What You Wish by Ashley Farley

    But after a night of amazing passion, she leaves discreetly. Life has other plans for her at the moment. After the best sex of his life, single father Jack Sherwood isn’t ready to give up his mystery woman. When he runs into her several months later, he’s relentless in his pursuit, and he doesn’t care a whit about their eleven-year age difference. Holly’s life has taken a new course since her first meeting with Jack, and she’s convinced she’s not what he and his adorable son need. Can her new friends at The Cougar Club persuade her to stop running? Or will she lose the best thing to ever happen to her? Calendar Boy Forty-five- year-old erotic romance author Stacy Oppenheimer has always been an introvert, and her recent divorce has left her scared of her own shadow. But when her favorite cover model, Michael Moretti, corners her at a writers’ conference, she swallows her inhibitions for a moment and teases him a little. Michael Moretti, age thirty-six, knows his career as a cover model and exotic dancer is rapidly coming to an end due to his age. He has his own reasons for attending this conference—find an attractive older woman whom he can woo into keeping him in the lifestyle to which he’s become accustomed. Lovely Stacy fits his requirements nicely. With Michael’s help, Stacy begins to overcome her shyness and engages in some exciting activities both outside and inside the bedroom. But she’s nobody’s sugar mama, and she makes that clear to him when she finds out his ulterior motive. Too bad for Michael, who finds out he just might be in a little deeper than he thought.

    Unbreakable destiny. Ultimate sacrifice. One man will do anything to save what matters most. Kevin Connelly embarks on a quest to honor the memory of his grandfather, a war hero in a neighborhood without heroes, and rescue his twin siblings from mysterious aliens. His older brother, now the head of their orphaned family has other plans, requiring him to flee a contract with a powerful crime lord. Military enlistment might be the answer to his prayers or the beginning of his destruction. Ace and Amanda-Margaret Connelly learn firsthand the secret of the Siren doom when they are captured by a race of giants opposing their Siren masters. Nothing is what it seems. The human race will soon learn rebels are treacherous allies. Gunnery Sergeant Robert Priest, PhD, is dedicated to the 343rd Marauders despite the horror of Brookhaven and the damage done to his closest friends. Duty doesn't get easier when the Connelly family complicates his mission of vengeance and redemption. Bayonet Dawn is military science fiction packed with camaraderie, action, and a family saga to be remembered. The book strives to realize the best elements of classics in the genre: Starship Troopers, Battlestar Galactica, and Dune.

    But it's no secret how they feel about one another, sparks fly when they're together. Andrew has no intention of ever committing himself to one woman, he just can't take the risk. So, he has a policy of no strings, no commitments, and no expectations. It's Just Sex. Rosemary is about to launch a campaign to change his mind. Oh, she's not going to tell him that she is determined to win his love, but she's going to do everything in her power to show him that he can't possibly live without her. GREEN WITH ENVY is the story of their first date. They head out on a scavenger hunt, but what they find is much more precious than anything they could have imagined. The sex is hot, the hero is a hunk, and Rosemary spreads love and magic wherever she goes.**Warning: Contains Sexual and Adult Content, 18+ **

    Short story from "If it bleeds".

    Madden, along with 18 other trendsetting authors such as HOLT Medallion winner Desiree Holt. When Madame Eve arranges a date, you are guaranteed more than you'll ever expect. More heat, more heart, more SIZZLE...Catch Me - Jennifer ProbstCan a woman with an abused past surrender her heart and body to one night with a stranger?Broken - Jen McLaughlin (writing as Diane Alberts)Is one night enough for Tiffany to convince Matt that she doesn’t see a crippled man when she looks at him…but a war hero instead?Wet Dream - J.M. MaddenGinger Hampton isn't surprised when her Madame Eve date is a no-show, but maybe Chief of Security Cameron Jones can salvage her night, and her heart.Night Mission - Desiree HoltFor Navy SEAL Gabe Walker his one night stand with Maggie Fitzpatrick might turn out to be his hottest mission yet.Panties Optional - Stephanie BeckForever isn’t on Sam or Maggie's minds, but maybe it doesn’t have to be.Caught Offside - Liz CroweA love of soccer may unite former international star Ramon Castillo and casino catering manager Gillian Winter, but their deep personal wounds won't allow for a real connection until Madame Eve works her magic.Erotic Healing - Becca Dale“Together we will convert your discomfort to pleasure...before the sun rises, you will know exquisite satisfaction."One Night With the Bride - Sara DanielCan a 1Night Stand reunite Caroline with her first love, Javier, or will he see only her deception, leading one night with the bride to sever their ties forever?Strawberry Kisses - Dominique EastwickCan two introverts gamble on love and win...with the help of Madame Eve and a bowl of Strawberries anything is possible.Dead or Alive – L.J. GarlandShe’s a bounty hunter on a mission...but when she captures her man, will she shoot him or kiss him?My Boogie Woogie Bugle Guy - D.L. JacksonCan Frank, an Army trumpet player, win the heart of Grace Daniels and convince her to give love with a soldier a chance, or will he be playing Taps before the date even gets started?In From the Cold - Taryn KincaidWhen Geneviève Mortimer encounters a burned-out spy unaware of his true identity—everything the demon-hunting will-o’-the-wisp most despises—can Madame Eve work her special romantic magic on the star-crossed pair?Trading Up - Mahalia LeveyA lonely woman and soldier get a bit of help in finding each other.Her Marine - Heather LongThe last thing Shannon and Brody expected was a soul deep connection that brings them both wonder, but is the spark of lust enough to bring these two loners in from the cold?To Feel Again - Valerie MannThe story that started it all: Jackson Castillo doesn't have time for dating, Leah doesn't have time to wait.Dom of the Dead - Virginia NelsonLove transcends the grave when Carson submits to the Dom of the Dead.The Virgin and the Playboy - Kate RichardsCan love blossom between a man who has too many dates and a woman who hasn't even found time for sex once?Paging Dr. Wolf - Rebecca RoyceWhen a fateful night turns Dr. Dallas Olson into a werewolf, only Cara can help heal his heart and teach him how to howl at the moon.Familiar Desires - Olivia StarkeSomething deeper lies in Ashley and Justin's magical connection, something Ashley isn't prepared for....Satin Sheets in Space - Jessica E. SubjectDanyka expects to meet her Prince Charming during her 1Night Stand, but how will she react when she's abducted by two sexy aliens?Dragon Temptation - Kali WillowsA twin dragon and a maid of honor hook up at an exotic destination wedding for steamy romance and melted chocolate!

    Dementia by Jaid Black: Dee Ellison is catapulted from earth and ends up in a mysterious alien world reminiscent of Planet of the Apes. The males of the planet, she soon discovers, keep human females as sex slaves. More terrifying yet, the Alpha Male of the Hoard is hot on Dee's trail... Dragon's Mistress by Joanna Wylde: Dani is a pleasure worker, not a spy. But when her Guild calls on her to infiltrate Lord Drake Van'hot's palace, she's willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish her mission. Even if it means becoming the Dragon's Mistress.Too Hot To Handle by Shelby Morgen: Jarla is a professional - A Bounty Hunter - and one of the best in the business. She's also a seeker of pleasure. The two have never interfered with each other... until now. She's hot on the trail of Thallin, a rogue Barbarian. But there's more to her quarry than she ever expected...

    Right up until he broke her heart six years ago. Now that she’s returned to Wyoming for good, what she wants more than anything is to save her family’s ranch. Even if that means swallowing her pride and asking Dave to marry her.Matty’s up to something – Dave knows that much. Just as he knows that Matty needs help, so of course he’ll provide it. Doing what’s best for Matty is second nature. Even when it comes to marrying her in name only. Although he can’t resist one hot-blooded kiss after the I-dos -- a kiss as fiery as the flame-red Indian Paintbrush that's always reminded him of Matty.Maybe – just maybe – his Matty will become more to him than Almost a Bride.MATCH MADE IN WYOMINGWhen fire ravages Wyoming land, fireweed is among the first plants to return, brightening the blighted area with the joy of its blooms. Can Taylor Anne Larsen pull off a similar miracle for the pain-ravaged heart and disbelieving soul of ranch foreman Cal Ruskoff? Armed with the same grace and grit as the wildflower fireweed, Taylor also has allies – a matchmaking friend, the Wyoming winter, high-octane mutual attraction, and a rescued puppy who slips past Cal's defenses.Cal might give in to passion temporarily, but from behind the wall he's built around his past and his secrets, he's certain Taylor is all that he can't let himself have. And he'll use all his weapons to keep her out.MY HEART REMEMBERSLisa Currick was once as bright and open as the sunny Bur Marigold wildflower of her native Wyoming. That’s how New York City Detective Shane Garrison has remembered her since she figured in his first investigation eight years ago. But when he arrives in her hometown determined to resolve the final element of that case, he discovers the girl he's remembered has become a very different woman.

    Laundry may be required.  She has a thirst for danger. He is used to getting exactly what he wants... Victoria Chase is Chicago's hottest new reporter, looking to make the scoop of the century. Rumor has it that in the bowels of the city lies a private sex club for the wealthy elite. Willing to do anything for a story, she infiltrates the club, determined to uncover this urban legend. She didn't expect to run into him:Malcolm Cage.The famous billionaire bad boy is the king of Club Luxe. Every Friday night, he reigns supreme over untold sinful pleasures in his underground kingdom. His one rule? He never participates and only watches--until he sees Victoria. She sets his body and soul on fire, and Malcolm does not plan on letting her go. Can Victoria keep it professional and get her story? Or will her heart betray her under Malcolm's smoldering gaze? Book Two: With her life stolen from her, Victoria is left with no choice. She must drop everything and dedicate herself to helping the infuriating Malcolm Cage. But the task is a dangerous hunt for information that she promised herself she would avoid at all costs. It doesn't help that Malcolm is utterly distracting with a voice as smooth as silk and eyes that make her body tremble.Malcolm used to think that Victoria was just another slimy reporter, but she is quickly invading his heart with her stubbornness and bravery. He was once willing to do anything it took to protect his family, not caring who got hurt in the process--but he finds himself feeling guilty for manipulating Victoria. Even though he was the one who put her life at risk, he is now the only one who can save her... Book Three: With Malcolm presumably dead after a terrible accident, Victoria finds herself in the most dangerous situation imaginable: trapped in a foreign nation with nothing except the clothes on her back. She has no idea what to do next or how to get out of this mess. The only thing keeping her going is the willpower to finish the job Malcolm gave to her, and honor his final request to find Claire.But Malcolm Cage isn't the type of man who will go down without a fight.

    9 Comedic space opera tales of big spaceships, poor life decisions, and lots of Pew! From fights against the Hive, to the quest for the perfect coffee bean, to helping the little folk in a big, bad universe, Pew! Pew! has the tales to keep you entertained and maybe bust a gut while you’re at it.