Book picks similar to
Stony Creek by Christine Gardner
romance
australia
1st-in-series
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Runaway Heart
Teresa Slack - 2013
She’s never held onto a relationship for more than a few months, and she’s quit more jobs than most people apply for. Until Will Lachland. He’s the first man who ever made her think of getting serious about something, about putting down roots. But she can’t forget her mother’s ominous warning. Men are users. They take and take and leave nothing but a shell of who she's meant to be. Fear of losing her heart to anyone or anything has kept Kyla running all her life. This time she runs from Chicago to the family farm where she spent her happiest childhood summers. A new life and a new chance at romance seem like the answer to her prayers. But things are never as simple as they seem. Can she find the love she longs for even though she can’t forget Will? Or is something else, something greater, calling her heart toward home? This unpredictable Christian fiction romance full of surprises and humor will encourage readers while reminding them how much fun falling in love can be..
Montana Blueprint for Love
Debra Salonen - 2020
When “Diamond” Jim McCall gambles on a fixer-upper for sentimental reasons, his house of cards implodes – along with his health. Ruby’s ready for a job change but agreeing to become her first crush’s apprentice might be her biggest mistake. She doesn’t doubt they can “flip” the derelict ranch house and save Summit Construction, but at what cost to her heart? After all, Boone Fielding became the son her father never had when she left for college. Man up. Helping Ruby McCall and her sisters flip Diamond Jim’s “money pit” makes sense financially, but he can’t partner with someone he doesn’t trust – and Boone hasn’t forgotten his last close encounter with Ruby. But every day on the job reminds him of why he fell in love with her in the first place. How is he ever going to let her go when the job is done?
Deception
Stacy Claflin - 2012
It's too bad that everything she knows is wrong.After meeting a gorgeous stranger on a blind date, Alexis feels like she's known him her entire life. Suddenly, dark long-forgotten memories swirl in her mind. She realizes she's powerful, stunningly beautiful, and marked for death.As she faces the one who ordered her execution years ago, Alexis must learn her strange new powers and trust in unlikely allies to keep herself alive.Deception is the first installment in the young adult Transformed Series by USA Today bestselling author, Stacy Claflin. It's a paranormal romantic suspense series that features gripping supernatural drama, surprising twists, dynamic characters, page-turning suspense, heart-pounding action, and angsty romance.Pick up Deception today and you won't put it down until the stunning conclusion.This urban fantasy romantic thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat. In this book and the rest of the series, you’ll find a supernatural world far beyond the normal scope of vampires and werewolves. Buckle up and get ready for a ride full of twists and turns. It’s one for all ages – as long as you have an imagination and love surprises!
Westward Winds
Linda Bridey - 2014
Her doting parents want her to make a good match with a worthy gentleman and live a respectable life. She is beautiful and intelligent and she comes with a hefty dowry. There is no reason that she shouldn’t be able to find an eligible man and settle down.Tessa herself is the reason. The men who are attempting to court her are, in her opinion, boring and conceited. Not only that, Tessa craves excitement and adventure, of which there is little in her social circles. By chance, she comes across an advertisement for a bride brokerage company seeking eligible women of good breeding to go west and find husbands.One man on the list catches her eye and she begins corresponding with him, eventually agreeing to go to Montana to meet him. She can’t resist the possibility of finding someone different and even if she doesn’t, the adventure itself would be worth her time. Tessa makes a successful escape and sets out to make a new life in Montana.Dean Samuels is a Montana rancher who is in over his head. His ranch is struggling and his two children are unruly and in need of a caretaker. It’s clear to his younger brother, Marcus, that he needs help. He tells Dean about a mail order bride service and convinces him that he should utilize it to find a wife.After his wife, Sarah, had passed away, Dean never intended to marry again. His ranch and his children became his life. However, it becomes apparent that Sadie, his daughter, and his son, Jack, need stability and love. The demands of raising his children and keeping his head above water financially have taken a toll and Dean grudgingly gives in to Marcus’ idea.Sarah had been the love of his life and Dean doesn’t intend to let any other woman into his heart. He’s locked those kinds of emotions deep inside, not wanting to take the chance of getting hurt like that again. Because Dean has trouble expressing his feelings in writing, his younger brother Marcus agrees to help write the letters to Tessa. Dean is happy to leave that part up to him.When Dean and Tessa meet, sparks fly between the two strong willed people. Tessa is disappointed that Dean isn’t the romantic, sophisticated man she was lead to believe he was in the letters she received. Dean is aggravated that she isn’t a meek woman who is easily managed. Never mind the fact that she has no idea of how to take care of children and keep a home.Dean and Tessa struggle to find common ground and make their marriage work. Will they each take the risk and open their hearts to one another? Can their marriage survive and will they find love and contentment in each other? Their future happiness hangs in the balance under the Montana skies.
Ellipsis: The Novel
Kristy McGinnis - 2021
When unplanned pregnancy threatens to derail everything, she fears life is over. Instead, she discovers motherhood to be her new calling. For thirteen years she and her son Charlie are a unit and her world is complete. Everything changes when violence erupts at Charlie’s school. As she reaches out via text in desperation, only the words and the animated ellipsis on the phone screen offer a buffer between life and death. Can she save the person on the other end of the messages in time, and in the process can she save herself too?
Sentence of Marriage
Shayne Parkinson - 2009
Her life seems mapped out for her by the time she is twelve. Amy dreams of an exciting life in the world beyond her narrow boundaries. But it is the two people who come to the farm from outside the valley who change her life forever, and Amy learns the high cost of making the wrong choice.
Keeping Katerina
Simone Beaudelaire
But one social issue Christopher has never considered much is violence against women. A Robert Browning poem and a chance encounter with Katerina Valentino change everything.Katerina is in fear for her life from her father's constant beatings. That is, until Christopher becomes entranced by the delicate dark-haired beauty, and decides that he must rescue her from her father--by marrying her. But Katerina's years of abuse have left her physically and emotionally scarred. And those scars threaten the newlyweds' hope for happiness. Is Christopher's tender affection enough to help Katerina heal her broken spirit?
Lianne
Mona Ingram - 2017
Following in her late husband's footsteps, Lianne visits the spectacular Cornwall coast of England where she begins to find herself again. What she doesn't plan for is a growing attraction to a local man... and his dog. But when he disappears unexpectedly, she returns home and puts all of her energies into revitalizing her home town. But memories of those golden days linger, igniting her desire to love again. Mona Ingram is the author of over forty sweet, clean romances full of hope, inspiration and happily ever afters. For a complete list of Mona's books, visit her website at monaingram.com
Written: A Story of Love, Secrets, Betrayal and Honour
D.A. Lee - 2019
Four-year-old Eleanor is forced to accept her mother’s religious beliefs, that her whole life has already been written, and that she has no choice but to honour and accept her parents’ plans for her. Subject to abuse by an Islamic teacher, and witness to scenes of violence inflicted by her father, Eleanor finds her only refuge at school, where she dreams of a life beyond the hills of her hometown of Ashcroft, England. A mysterious woman befriends Eleanor – showing her a world of choice and freedom. Caught between her parents’ cultural values and her own desires, Eleanor must decide whether to honour her parents’ wishes – a life locked in marriage to the hands of an abuser – or rewrite her own story. Written is the heart-wrenching story of a young girl’s struggle for freedom, and the uncovering of an intricate plan laced around forty years of secrets, betrayal and lies, in a family desperate to preserve their culture and honour.
The Only Way Home
Jeanette Minniti - 2021
Danger on the rails. A journey to save a family.It is 1933 inside a sweltering courtroom in Macon, Georgia. Fifteen-year-old Robert sits on a bench awaiting sentencing after being picked up for vagrancy and spending a night in jail. He left his home in Illinois with a neighborhood friend to ride the rails and find work to help their families. The friend turned back, too afraid to face the perils ahead. But going back empty-handed isn’t an option for Robert.THE ONLY WAY HOME is the story of one boy’s determination to survive loss and hardship to help his family — and how fate and a violin touch the course of his life.Fans of Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and Sold On a Monday by Kristina Morris will love this story set during the Great Depression of a fatherless boy fighting to keep his family together.
Ignite the Flame
Susan Griscom - 2011
Plagued with nightmares of her father's sudden and brutal death, Addie struggles with her anguish and refuses to believe that his demise was accidental. But that's not the only thing Addie struggles with. Caught up in the horrors of her latest nightmare while driving to work one day, she's startled beyond comprehension when she almost runs down a man standing in the middle of the road. A gorgeous, stunning man she can't seem to take her mind or her eyes off of. All of a sudden, the impossible seems possible, and it's not clear whether that's a blessing or a curse.Cael Sheridan may be arrogant and mysterious, but he's also undeniably gorgeous. A member of a secret society, he is sworn to protect the woman he believes to be the daughter of his recently murdered mentor. In the process, he finds it impossible to resist her magnetic sensuality, complicating his efforts to shield and guide her as she learns to manage her newly acquired skills. He's faced with the tough decision of whether to let her in or sabotage their new relationship in order to keep her safe as well as his own heart.Fate has brought them together, but will it make them stronger or destroy them in the end?A supernatural, urban fantasy sure to get your blood running hot, Ignite the Flame is the first book in the Sectorium series set in a sleepy coastal town along the Oregon Coast. Previously published as Whisper Cape and has been re-titled an enhanced for a more enjoyable read.
Uncover My Secrets
Ali Parker - 2018
Prince. It is a title that some boys dream of, but as an orphan, I never thought it would happen to me. After being adopted by the wealthiest people in Qatar, I had a new life to look forward to. Years later, my adopted parents would have a son, a true son. My father gave me the opportunity to have my own business, and I could never repay him for what he has done for me. After a trip to Qatar to see him, I find out that he is stepping down as the king and wants me to be the new king. I know my brother is the one that should have the seat, but he is only eleven and has spoken out about not wanting to do it. All this, and now the most beautiful woman somehow pushes her way into my life. She is tough and persistent. Two very attractive qualities in a woman. I’m in a place of doubt and confusion and all I need is her. When she tells me who she really is, can I still love her? Please note that this is book 1 of a 4 books series. There will be a cliffhanger, and book 4 will have the HEA. The books are scheduled to release in two week increments for your reading pleasure.
My romantic comedy - Once upon a time (Book 1)
Mary Kelly - 2012
Whether it be When Harry Met Sally, Two Weeks Notice or Roman Holiday, they all make me dream and believe that everything is possible in life. In order to convince my friends that they are wrong to be cynical, it is decided: I am going to test the scenarios of my favorite romantic comedies in real life. What better way to prove that I’m right? Whether your favorite romantic comedy happens to be Serendipity, You’ve Got Mail, or Down with Love, it’s highly likely that I’ve tried them out, and that I can inform you about their effectiveness. To begin with, I choose Clueless, the most timeless of romantic comedies. After all, I could use some good karma, and to find love for my sister or my best friend seems like a good start to me. Follow me, and who knows—maybe you too, will be inspired to find your own happy ending. EXCERPT 1 Matt takes us to a nice bistro and he recommends that we taste the grilled chicken. The truth is, I’m not very hungry, but I’m not going to show that I’m disturbed in front of his girlfriend, so I eat with a hearty appetite. “It’s great to see that rumors didn’t affect your appetite.” “Matt,” protests Elina, but I don’t give her the chance to defend me. I can manage by myself. “Let him talk. I’m used to it. It would be good, however, if you’d tell me what you’re scheming.” “You said you needed someone to sort out your reputation. What better way than being seen with my fiancée and me?” “Unless they now think that I’m after a rich man with a fiancée.” Elina bursts out with laughter. “I didn’t consider that,” chuckles Matt. “Do you think I should change my plans?” “I don’t think you should help me at all,” I whistle, although deep down I’m happy he took the time to defend me. On the other hand, there are two sides to every coin, and I’m not very happy about being forced to have lunch with his girlfriend. If only she were a bit unfriendly, then I’d feel less guilty about disliking her. EXCERPT 2 When we enter the room and I see Lisa, who has arrived despite my prayers, I feel immediately threatened. How is it possible that photos don’t do justice to someone? I always look prettier in photos because I try to take my picture when I’m at my best. But this girl, if in photos she’s beautiful, in real life she is … stunning. I feel Matt’s hand tighten on my shoulder. “Matt!” She pounces on him and kisses him on the lips. I didn’t know that an ex-fiancée had the right to do that. “Lisa, nice to see you again.” Matt puts his hand on her arm, which I don’t think is necessary either. “Erin.” I’m not sure that the way he says my name indicates any particular attachment between us. “This is Lisa. Lisa, this is Erin.” Not my girlfriend, nothing, just Erin. I take her hand and I am of course delighted to meet her. “Matt told me all about you.” “Everything? Really?” She turns towards Matt to play the couple who has secrets to share. Maybe I don’t go out with men often, but I’ve seen so many romantic movies that I know all the ruses an ex-girlfriend can use. “Oh, I’m certain that even if he didn’t already tell me everything, he will sooner or later. Matt can’t resist my interrogation methods.” If she wants to play this game, I can, too. Matt tightens his grip on my hand; I bet that it isn’t to show that he’s proud of me. I remind you that you have no right to be possessive, you aren’t really dating Matt, whispers my voice of reason.
Luna Lodge Box Set One
Madison Stevens - 2015
Three women destined to be their mates. SOL: Erica Scott is good at sniffing out embezzlers, frauds and other financial criminals, or at least she was when she had a job. After an unfortunate lay-off, her options are limited. One path is to work with a narcissistic creep, her best friend's boyfriend. The other is Luna Lodge, a place controlled by the mysterious hybrids, the super-soldier products of a horrific genetic engineering project. Sol, a hybrid and the head of security at the lodge, doesn't know how much he can trust Erica. Suspicious that the woman may be a spy for his former masters, the sinister Horatius Group, he is determined to keep an eye on her, but his body wants a lot more than that. When someone targets the lodge, the suspect list quickly grows. Sol and Erica will have to fight against their burning passion and keep their focus to save themselves and the lodge. TITUS: Kate Walker has had her fill of men. Her ex only used her to get to her best friend, and now her new boss seems to go out of his way to tick her off. It doesn’t help that he’s drop-dead gorgeous and built like a god. She just can’t deal with his hot and cold attitude. As the leader of the genetically engineered hybrids of Luna Lodge, Titus knows getting too close to mouthy Kate isn’t really a good idea. Too bad he can’t seem to get away from her or get her out of his head. Everything about her keeps drawing them together, and his ability to resist her is weakening daily. Their shared attraction is put to the test when the dangerous Horatius Group makes its latest move against their former property, Titus and his fellow hybrids. When Kate is caught in the struggle, Titus will have to face a living nightmare or risk losing her forever. LUCIUS: Hannah knew taking a job with the genetically engineered hybrids of Luna Lodge would be interesting. Unfortunately for her, the revelation of the hybrids’ true nature to the world and attacks by their creators, the Horatius Group, have left her living at a compound that really doesn’t need a party planner anymore. Faced with the loss of her job, she comforts herself by trying to act as a kind ear to emotionally troubled hybrids, but she finds herself drawn to the scarred and stoic Lucius. He, however, seems more interested in getting rid of her than being with her. As the acting head of security, Lucius knows he can’t lose focus, especially with their enemy having already struck at them twice. His attraction to Hannah both confuses and frustrates him. Even if he’s prepared to give in, he knows there’s no way she’d really want someone as messed up as him. The past rarely stays buried. Soon, Lucius and Hannah confront a darkness that threatens to consume them both.
Queen of Someday
Sherry D. Ficklin - 2014
In the heart of St. Petersburg, surviving means navigating the political, romantic, and religious demands of the bitter Empress Elizabeth and her handsome, but sadistic nephew, Peter. Determined to save her impoverished family—and herself—Sophie vows to do whatever is necessary to thrive in her new surroundings. But an attempt on her life and an unexpected attraction threatens to derail her plans.Alone in a new and dangerous world, learning who to trust and who to charm may mean the difference between becoming queen and being sent home in shame to marry her lecherous uncle. With traitors and murderers lurking around every corner, her very life hangs in the balance. Betrothed to one man but falling in love with another, Sophie will need to decide how much she’s willing to sacrifice in order to become the empress she is destined to be.In a battle for the soul of a nation, will love or destiny reign supreme?