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Books to Read If You Like Skye Warren

Skye Warren is a New York Times Bestselling romance author of several popular contemporary romances including the Masterpiece Duet, Stripped, Chicago Underground and Beauty Series. If you adore contemporary romance novels and are on the lookout for some new steamy reads, we definitely think these latest reads will set your heart racing. Enjoy!

Books to Read If You Like Skye Warren

Mr. Fixit

Lauren Landish

Release Date: August 24, 2017

Caleb Strong and I have a special kind of friendship — we make crude comments, double entendres, and tease each other mercilessly. But we’re just friends and have never crossed that line. That was until we start working together to renovate my childhood home. Seeing him shirtless working out in the sun is making me want something more. I know once we cross that line, there’s no turning back. But I won’t deny it anymore, I want him to make a move.

Heartthrob

Willow Winters

Release Date: August 22, 2017

Nathan Hart is a former bad boy with a mysterious past. He was made to be in Hollywood; on the cover of magazines and the star of movies. But there’s more to him that, he has a secret. Something that draws me to him unlike anyone has before. Something that could ruin us both. I can’t tell him no, even if I wanted to. The moment he locked his eyes on me, I was his. And that first glance was ten years ago in high school. A decade later, fate saw fit to shove me back into his life.

Mr. Big

Delancey Stewart

Release Date: August 29, 2017

Everything in my life is going according to plan. I have the degree and the job, now I just need to prove I can succeed in the real world. If there’s one thing that’s not in my plans, it’s falling in love with my boss. Most relationships don’t start with one person calling the other out in public for being an arrogant jerk. Then again, most CEOs don’t cut their own employees in line at the coffeehouse and bark orders at people like they own the place.

The Hunt

Alice Ward

Release Date: August 26, 2017

Confined to a hospital with a rare disorder, my little brother sent me on scavenger hunts to uncover the world for him when we were kids. When this leads me to a diner in Connecticut, my life changes. Caitlyn, the gorgeous waitress, turns down my indecent proposal and ignites my need to conquer her at all costs. I can't fault her, since I do have a reputation as a ruthless billionaire womanizer. But I can't resist her.

Dirty Filthy Rich Men

Laurelin Paige

Release Date: March 27, 2017

I knew poor scholarship girls like me didn't stand a chance against guys like Weston King and Donovan Kincaid, but I was in love with his world, their world, of parties, sex and power. I knew what I wanted—I knew who I wanted—until one night, their world tried to bite me back and Donovan saved me. He saved me, and then Weston finally noticed me, and I finally learned what it was to be in their world.

Shattered

Helen Hardt

Release Date: August 29, 2017

Detective Ruby Lee has been on her own since she was fifteen. When her past collides with the Steel family's mysteries, she's determined to find the truth. She has her own issues, and she's not looking for a relationship, despite her all-consuming attraction to Ryan Steel. The gorgeous dark-haired man gets under her skin anyway...and he needs her.

Interview with Delancey Stewart, author of Mr. Big

What can you tell us about your new release, Mr. Big?

Mr. Big is a bit of a departure for me. I wanted to write a really alpha hero, the kind of man who knows his place in the world but maybe has a softer more vulnerable side that only certain people (like our heroine!) get to see. That said, the book still has a kickass feminist heroine (because I really won’t write any other kind) and a cast of good people who carry through on my signature theme – that we make family where we find it.

Who or what inspired you to become an author?

My mom. Plain and simple. Her love of stories and literature led me to find escape in books as a kid and to admire writers above all others when I needed to choose heroes to emulate. We were both English majors who set about proving that you could do a hell of a lot with an English degree!

Which books would we be surprised to find on your bookshelves?

Let’s see… I write romance, but I’m a dragon geek. If the book has a dragon in it, I’ve read it! (Game of Thrones, I’m looking at you…I’ve read them all and am still waiting for George R.R. Martin to conclude the series. Which doesn’t mean I’m not enjoying HBO’s version of the end…) I also have a collection of classics (from my English major days) and revisit the American greats—F. Scott Fitzgerald, Hemingway (who I’ve come to grudgingly admire) and Steinbeck.

You're hosting a literary dinner party. Which three writers are invited?

Cassandra Clare (because…shadowhunters, hello?), Nora Roberts – the queen of romance who isn’t afraid to tell things like they are, and Dennis Lehane. Because he’s amazing and poetic and in your face and so real.

What makes your world go round. Why does it bring you joy?

My little boys. I have two and while the answer might be trite, I’m not just trying to be cloying with my answer. They are really my world. And my nemesis

What advice would you give your teenage self?

Calm the eff down. You rock and you just haven’t realized it yet.

What scene in Mr. Big was your favorite to write?

There’s a scene with a big giraffe that I love. I don’t want to give anything away, but giraffes have a special meaning in my house because my littlest little loves them. So we have a few standing around. It’s kind of a theme around here.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

I do. I think I share it with a college friend who still means the world to me. It is: Things work out.

I know it isn’t deep, but it seems to be true. I try not to sweat the small stuff (notice I said “try”) because things do work out. And generally in a way that feels like it’s for the best.

Delancey Stewart is the author of the new book Mr. Big.

Connect with Delancey:
Author Website

Twitter

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The Story Behind What I Wasn't Looking For

By Olivia Hardin

If you’re a writer or if you know one, you’ve probably seen t-shirts that say things like:

Don't annoy the author. She can put you in a book and kill you.

Or:

Careful or you’ll end up in my novel.

Or:

Never wrong a writer. They get their revenge in print.

And maybe some of you even have one of these shirts. I don’t, but I think under the circumstances I’m going to need to add this to my “Wish List” … and I do have a birthday coming so <hint, hint>.

Over the years, I admit that I’ve put little characteristics of people I know into many of the books I’ve written. A gesture here, a personality quirk there. In my first series, Bend-Bite-Shift, Rooney came to life when I reconnected with one of my best friends in high school. Still, until What I Wasn’t Looking For, I hadn’t ever written a real-life “villain” into a book.

But the truth is, this has been a rough year for the hubby and me, so it isn’t any surprise that I needed a little catharsis with my writing. Conflicts in our neighborhood found us involved in two lawsuits. I provided evidence for one case, and my husband was sued in the second. Our friends became our enemies, and that’s been a very tough pill to swallow.

One day, while trying to write, I was mentally stewing over all the drama we were dealing with in real life and this popped into my head:

“He doesn’t sell ice to an Eskimo. He convinces the Eskimo to steal the ice from someone else, then takes it for himself. And all the while the poor Eskimo believes he's a great upstanding guy.”

And so, from there, the character of Till Beamus was born. At first, I was ecstatic at the idea of writing my real-life villain. I wondered what sorts of torture I could put him through, how I could eventually kill him off. But then I remembered this isn’t a paranormal romance, so none of those ideas quite fit … I decided the characters in the Love & Found Series were going to need to find a way to deal with their bad guy. And more importantly, they’d have to learn to deal with the aftereffects: As Mary says in What I Wasn’t Looking For:

“You never really know people. You might think you do, but they can turn on you. Or maybe, they were never what you thought they were. I thought I was a good judge, but… sometimes you just get it wrong.”

If you read What I Wasn’t Looking For, you’ll get an introduction to the impact Till Beamus has on Mary and her family. That story-arc continues into the next book in the series as well, because… well, honestly because the drama in my life with the “real” Till Beamus isn’t over yet, either. I still have lots more to work out in my head and my heart.

So, for Till Beamus, death just isn’t an option, either on the pages of this series or in real life. I’m still struggling to get over the things that happened this past year, but I am getting through it. And one good thing: at least I’m lucky enough to be a writer so that I can do some of that in the relative safety of the pages I write.

- Olivia Hardin

Get What I Wasn't Looking For by Olivia Hardin Now

New Book Releases Week of August 29

August might be almost over, but that doesn't mean the new book releases have slowed down. This week there are so many blockbuster new novels to get your hands on. Those that are looking for a romantic read to fall for should check out the new titles from popular authors like Alice Ward, Willow Winters, Delancey Stewart, Laurelin Paige, and Lauren Landish. There are also hot new releases from bestselling authors Louise Penny, Marcia Clark, Carla Neggers and Danielle Steel. We hope you enjoy all of these new books and find some new additions for your library!

Romance

Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

Literary Fiction

Fantasy

Science Fiction

Young Adult

Biography & Memoir

Coloring Books

Sign up for our email and we’ll send you the best new books in your favorite genres weekly.

Interview with Laurelin Paige, author of Dirty Filthy Rich Men

What can you tell us about your new release, Dirty Filthy Rich Men?

Dirty Filthy Rich Men is a book I’ve been dying to write for years. It’s inspired by a play, later made into a couple of movies, called Sabrina. (The play is Sabrina Faire.) This version, though, is darker and sexier than the script you might remember. She’s had a crush on Weston for as long as she can remember, but it’s his best friend Donovan who unexpectedly finds a place in her heart…

You can read the beginning of Sabrina’s story for free right now in Dirty Filthy Rich Boys.

Who or what inspired you to become an author?

There’s never been a time where I haven’t loved stories. I started telling them in song form. I made them up about my dolls, I made them up about my friends, I made them up about strangers on the street. Actually, I still do the last two. I was a musical theater major in college, and it taught me so much about the art of telling a story that it felt natural to move in the direction of full length novels.

Which books would we be surprised to find on your bookshelves?

I really love non-fiction. For one thing, it’s fascinating to learn more about how our brains work, and ways to “hack” productivity. Plus, it’s easier for me to read non-fiction when I’m deep in the romance writing cave. I like to keep the story in my head separate from other people’s stories on the page. Recently I've read Everybody Lies and Essentialism: The disciplined pursuit of less. Both are fabulous reads.

What is a typical day like for you?

One long blur of words, kids, puppies, coffee, and rolling on the floor in frustration. Plus naps. I love naps.

BAM. You’re a superhero. What’s your superpower?

If I were invisible, I could see if all my favorite celebrity couples were having the kind of sex I imagine they are. Is that inappropriate? I write steamy romance. I think this should be expected.

What’s in your Netflix queue?

The Untold History of the United States, an Oliver Stone documentary series, has been blowing my mind. I’ve learned so much. And you know I’m always watching Shameless, Walking Dead, and Game of Thrones with my husband.

What scene in Dirty Filthy Rich Men was your favorite to write?

When Sabrina comes face-to-face with Donovan again for the first time in ten years… I felt all of her emotions as she realized nothing was over--not by a long shot.

Do you have a motto, quote or philosophy you live by?

I really love Mother Teresa's quote about humility: “If you are humble nothing will touch you, neither praise nor disgrace, because you know what you are.” I like to practice knowing who I am. I like to strive to be someone who doesn't need praise and can't be hurt by criticism. I'm far from it, but I'm working on it.

Laurelin Paige is the author of the new book Dirty Filthy Rich Men.

Connect with Laurelin:
Author Website

Twitter

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The Buzziest Books of August

August was a fantastic month for book lovers with so many new releases to choose from. Across all genres, there were some great books that enthralled us from cover to cover and we couldn’t put them down. While it was hard to narrow this list down to only ten titles, here are our choices for the buzziest books of August! Happy reading!

The Buzziest Books of August

Seeing Red

Sandra Brown

Release Date: August 15, 2017

Kerra Bailey is a TV journalist hot on the trail of a story that could shoot her career to new heights. Twenty-five years ago, Major Franklin Trapper became a national icon when he was photographed leading a handful of survivors to safety after the bombing of a Dallas hotel. For years, he gave speeches and interviews but suddenly dropped out of the public eye. Now Kerra is willing to use any means necessary to get an exclusive with the Major - even if she has to secure an introduction from his estranged son, former ATF agent John Trapper.

Any Dream Will Do

Debbie Macomber

Release Date: August 8, 2017

Shay Benson is determined to have a fresh start and finds herself wandering into a church to escape the cold. There she meets Pastor Drew Douglas, who she strikes up a friendship with. He helps her get back on her feet, and she reignites his sense of purpose after the loss of his wife. Over time, This turns into something deeper, something soulful, spiritual, and possibly romantic.

Jack of Hearts

Christopher Grayson

Release Date: August 14, 2017

The latest book in the bestselling Detective Jack Stratton Series. When Jack Stratton’s mother and the neighborhood book club ask him to catch a small-time thief known as the ‘Orange Blossom Cove Bandit’, he can’t refuse the simple job. But the case takes a deadly turn and Jack now has to stop a crazed killer, save his parents and win the hand of the girl he loves.

The Heart's Invisible Furies

John Boyne

Release Date: August 22, 2017

From the New York Times Bestselling author of The Boy In the Striped Pajamas, comes a tale of Ireland from the 1940s to today through the eyes of one ordinary man. This story about Cyril Avery promises to make you laugh and cry while reminding us all of the redemptive power of the human spirit.

All These Worlds

Dennis E. Taylor

Release Date: August 8, 2017

The third book in the bestselling Bobiverse science fiction series by Dennis E. Taylor. Still stinging from their last encounter with the Others, the Bobs now find themselves facing the prospect of one decisive final battle to defend the earth and its colonies. An unlikely task, seeing as how undisciplined they are. Yet salvation might be closer than they think, as something has been discovered out in deep space by a couple of eighth-generation Bobs. All they have to do is get it to Sol.

Devil's Cut

J.R. Ward

Release Date: August 1, 2017

The thrilling finale to the New York Times Bestselling Bourbon Kings series by J.R. Ward sees the Bradford family teetering on the brink of collapse. Their patriarch, William Baldwine, was found dead in an aparant suicide. But his eldest son and sworn enemy, Edward, has come forward and confessed to what was actually a murder. While in poice custody, Edward doesn't mourn his loss of freedom or the disintegration of his family... but the woman he left behind.

Y is for Yesterday

Sue Grafton

Release Date: August 22, 2017

In 1979, four teenage boys from an elite private school sexually assault a fourteen-year-old classmate—and film the attack. Not long after, the tape goes missing and the suspected thief, a fellow classmate, is murdered. In the investigation that follows, two of the perpetrators are convicted but the ringleader escapes without a trace. Ten years later, Fritz McCabe is released from prison. Then a copy of the missing tape arrives with a ransom demand.

The Silent Shield

Jeff Wheeler

Release Date: August 22, 2017

Courtly intrigue and rumors of invasion plunge Kingfountain into turmoil as the search for Trynne Kiskaddon father begins in earnest. But Trynne’s quest to learn the truth of Owen’s sinister disappearance is sidetracked when tragedy strikes her family once again. Suddenly, the future of the kingdom rests in her hands as she struggles to learn—and control—the power that can keep the threatening Deep Fathoms at bay.

The Good Daughter

Karin Slaughter

Release Date: August 8, 2017

Twenty-eight years ago, Charlotte and Samantha Quinn’s family was torn apart by a terrifying attack on their home. It left their mother dead and their father devastated. The family was fractured beyond repair and consumed by secrets from that terrible night. In the present day, Charlie has followed in her father’s footsteps to become a lawyer — the ideal good daughter. But when violence comes to Pikeville again — and a shocking tragedy leaves the whole town traumatized — Charlie is plunged into a nightmare.

Emma in the Night

Wendy Walker

Release Date: August 8, 2017

One night three years ago, the Tanner sisters disappeared: fifteen-year-old Cass and seventeen-year-old Emma. Three years later, Cass returns, without her sister Emma. Her story is one of kidnapping and betrayal, of a mysterious island where the two were held. But to forensic psychiatrist Dr. Abby Winter, something doesn't add up.

Bestsellers Now in Paperback: August 2017

With summer drawing to a close, there are only so many days left before the relaxed flow of life is flooded by towering workloads, carpooling conundrums, and unexpected emergency trips to the store. Make the most of your remaining relaxation time with a book you can slip into a back pack, drop into beach bag, or jam into carry on. Whether you're seeking a ponderous literary narrative or a gritty, action packed thriller, there's something for everyone in this months bestsellers now in paperback. Bestselling authors James Rollins and Lisa Scottoline head our Mystery / Thriller section, while Nicholas Sparks and Alice Hoffman bring passion and wonder to our Romance and Literary genres.

Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

Romance

Literary Fiction

Fantasy & Science Fiction

Young Adult

Biography & Memoir

The Last Boys of Summer: New Romance Novels

The hot days of Summer may be coming to an end, but there's still time for a little fling to end the season with a bang. Whether you enjoy contemporary, historical, romantic comedies, or paranormal, we've made a list that should please just about anyone wanting a new love story! So check out these brand new romance books before the boys of summer have gone.

The Last Boys of Summer: New Romance Novels

Porter

Georgia Cates

Release Date: August 2, 2017

The third book in the Men of Lovibond series about craft beer and the sexy guys that brew it. Frankee Dawson is no longer the little girl that used to help out around the brewery. She's grown into a beautiful, sexy and desirable woman. But there's a problem, she's the daughter of one of my employees and way too young for me. Now that she is my intern for the summer it's going to be hard to resist the temptation.

Traitor in Her Arms

Shana Galen

Release Date: August 22, 2017

When her late husband leaves Lady Gabrielle McCullough in debt to some dangerous people, she is forced to become a thief. Her skills did not go unnoticed as she was recruited by the Scarlett Pimpernel, and is about to undertake the most daring mission of her life. Accompanying her is the Earl of Sedgwick, who is a thief in his own right and an enticng presence. He is not to be trusted... nor is Gabrielle's body when he is near.

Ready To Run

Lauren Layne

Release Date: August 22, 2017

Jordan Carpenter has finally found the perfect candidate for Jilted, the new dating show about runaway grooms. Luke Elliott is a firefighter and known player that has left not one but three brides at the altar. There's just one problem, he refuses to answer Jordan’s emails or calls. Now she has to fly to Montana to recruit him in person.

The Ruler

Elin Peer

Release Date: August 20, 2017

Book two in the bestselling Men of the North series. Four hundred years in the future, women control the world. Khan Aurelius is the ruler of the last free men remaining and is determined to reclaim the power that has been denied to them for centuries. When he captures Councilwoman Pearl and makes her his hostage, Khan is certain he can influence her to give up their power willingly.

Rebel Love

Tess Oliver

Release Date: August 18, 2017

New York Times Bestselling Author Tess Oliver brings a new tale of second chance love. I often thought of that split second decision. The kiss that unraveled everything and changed the course of history. But there was nothing split second about an obsession. And while she might have been impetuous and wild, there sure as hell wasn't anything split second about Rebecca.

Fate

Audrey Carlan

Release Date: August 22, 2017

One night a fire obliterated my talent, beauty, and seared the connection I had with the man I loved. I pushed him away and gave up everything, so he could be happy. It's what anyone would have done in my situation. Now that I have healed, I crave what I let go. He still looks at me with fire in his eyes but he's not mine anymore. I have waited to long to fight for him.