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Interview with K.K. Allen, author of Under the Bleachers

What can you tell us about your new release, Under the Bleachers?

Under the Bleachers is a Contemporary Sports Romance about navigating the crossroads of life and letting go of the past in order to give everything to your future. This is an emotionally beautiful romance with a deeply woven plot and fun characters who are also flawed. Monica Stevens welcomes casual distractions—specifically chocolate, fashion, and boys—until a night of innocent banter with Seattle’s sexy football star complicates everything. To have a future, we must first deal with our pasts. But what if the two are connected? Readers will fall in love with Monica’s sassiness and swoon over Zachary’s sweet vulnerability. This novel is a standalone with secondary characters from Up in the Treehouse. You do not need to read Up in the Treehouse prior to reading Under the Bleachers.

What is the last book you read?

I’m between books right now. I finished A Thousand Letters by Staci Hart and loved every second of it. Pure poetry. It’s one of those intensely emotional stories that you honestly can’t put down. I highly recommend it. I’ve got an ARC of Ginger Scott’s A Boy Like You overheating my Kindle right now. I can’t wait to devour it in one sitting like I usually do with her books!

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

Hardest choice ever! Always Colleen Hoover. I just love her brain and would love to have a casual chat with her. Nicholas Sparks, of course, because everyone knows he’s been a huge inspiration to me as a writer. And my soul sister (at least I’m convinced she is), Anna Kendrick! I haven’t read Scrappy Little Nobody yet but I’m sure it’s amazing.

What fictional literary world would you most like to visit?

Some of my best reading memories as a child were spent reading Sweet Valley High with my best friend, Tasha. It’s her fault I love books, by the way. But I just wanted to be part of the Sweet Valley gang, hang out at the Dairy Burger, and fall in love with Todd, Ken, or even Bruce. Ha!

What's your spirit animal?

Apparently, I’m a bee! Typically, I’m not a fan of bees, but in this case, I’ll let it slide ;). Basically, if someone tells me I can’t achieve something, or if I can sense their doubt, it only makes me more determined. I also love helping others realize and go for their dreams! Under the Bleachers is about realizing your dreams too, but you have to be open to finding them and ready to work hard.

How do you like to spend a rainy day?

A rainy day is the perfect excuse to curl up with a good book or watch a movie with my son. We’re all about popcorn—anytime, anywhere—and our current favorite movie is Trolls!

What scene in Under the Bleachers was your favorite to write?

Under the Bleachers has been my favorite book to write so far, but also my most challenging. The characters are fun and share ridiculous banter, but there are hidden layers of issues that I had to sort through to tell this story. A lot of it had to be told subtly because that’s just who these characters are. But there is a “mudding” scene that is your not-so-typical date, and the perfect moment to see their chemistry together and what could be.

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

When I first decided to share my love for writing with the world, there was a quote I found that inspired me to move forward. Now, I share it with others and hope that they will find the courage to let go of the fear and live their dreams too. “Let your dreams be bigger than your fears, your actions louder than your words, and your faith stronger than your feelings.”

 

K.K. Allen is the author of the new book Under the Bleachers

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Interview with M. O'Keefe, author of Wait for It

What can you tell us about your new release, Wait for It?

Wait for It is about Tiffany and Blake, two characters readers met in Everything I Left Unsaid and The Truth About Him. I really wanted to play with the idea of Blake believing the worst about Tiffany and trying to keep her in a box by getting her all wrong and then finding out what she’s really like and having to seriously grovel. I also really wanted to show Tiffany pulling herself out of a horrible situation by any means necessary. They keep meeting each other under the worst circumstances and I feel like when the really see each other - they both start to change in exciting and meaningful ways. Tiffany also has kids which are always fun to write. I love romances with kids.

What's the last book you read?

Vicious by LJ Shen, The Bride by S. Doyle (An ARC. Oh my lord! Watch for this one in March), and Queen of the Tearling.

Who is your favorite fictional character from literature?

I’ve always maintained that I’m a writer because of Emily from the Emily of New Moons books by LM Montgomery. I’m also a serious sucker for the Black Dagger Brotherhood heroes!

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

Susan Elizabeth Phillips - For the laughs

Elizabeth Lowell - Because her books were such a big deal to me and I would lose my marbles.

Joshilyn Jackson - Her books are my very favorite and I think she'd be an amazing dinner party guest.

What's on your writing desk?

Well, it’s been taken over by my kids so at the moment it’s covered in nerf gun bullets, candy wrappers and about seven thousand sketches of animals.

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

Instant Dinner. Beautiful healthy food arrives with a wave of my wand or a flick of my wrist or whatever and my whole family loves it and doesn’t argue with me and eats it all with just enough leftovers for my lunch the next day.

What scene in Wait for It was your favorite to write?

The sex scenes have a really fun progression and the second one between them - Blake offers Tiffany money and it’s hot and twisted and wrong in a lot of ways, but right, too. At least for them.

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

Always kindness.

 

M. O'Keefe is the author of the new book Wait for It

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New Sports Romance Novels

There are so many new romance books to dive into at the moment and the sports genre, in particular, has some great stories to fall in love with. Have a fling with the superstar athlete, tame the bad boy who's always in the spotlight or even rediscover that first love with the college star. This genre has something for everyone, so check out our collection of new sports romance novels we know you'll love.

New Sports Romance Novels



Under the Bleachers

K.K. Allen

Release Date: February 28, 2017

Monica Stevens doesn't take life too seriously, she likes to keep it fun and flirty. But when a night of innocent banter with an NFL quarterback turns passionate, she's worried everything she once managed to protect might be destroyed. Zachary Ryan is Seattle's most eligible bachelor and also an undercover entrepreneur who is passionate about the organizations he supports. But he's also addicted to Monica, the curvy brunette with a sassy mouth. She is the perfect distraction from the daily grind. But when Monica encounters a crossroads in her life, Zachary becomes an unavoidable obstacle which forces her to stop hiding and confront the demons of her past.

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Roman

Sawyer Bennett

Release Date: February 21, 2017

Carolina Cold Fury defenseman, Roman Sykora is no stranger to negative publicity. When he's not in the penalty box, the Czech skate demon is attracting tabloid headlines for his scandalous behavior with the ladies. Now he is being forced to clean up his act, or else. That's where Lexi Robertson comes in, the fun-loving barista who plays the ukulele is just the distraction Roman needs. But when friction occurs between him and Lexi's new family, Lexi is forced to face the possibility of ending it. Trouble is, Roman's not ready to quit on her.

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Fake Fiancèe

Ilsa Madden-Mills

Release Date: February 5, 2017

They say nothing compares to your first kiss. But our first kiss was orchestrated for an audience, the second kiss, however... that one was real. My engagement with the hottest quarterback in college history might be fake, but that kiss was real. He cradled my face like he was terrified he'd mess things up. The way he stared into my eyes. Soft and slow, he inhaled me like I was the finest Belgian chocolate and he'd never get another piece. In that moment, I forgot he was paying me to be his fake fiancée. I forgot we weren't real.

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This Piece of My Soul

Robyn M. Ryan

Release Date: January 24, 2017

Andrew and Caryn Chadwick are one of pro hockey's golden couples. On their second anniversary, Andrew receives an unexpected contract offer to join the Tampa Suns. Buzzing with excitement about their new adventure, an unforeseen event challenges their love and threatens their marriage. This sudden and senseless accident leaves Andrew fearing for his life and Caryn finds herself paralyzed by fear that it could happen again. At a time when he is most vulnerable, she is at odds with her husband and can't provide him with the support he needs. Can they both overcome the distrust and fear to rediscover their love?

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Dazzle Me

Juliana Haygert

Release Date: February 13, 2017

The life of a ballet dancer is hard. Being a male ballet dancer is even harder, and Joshua Connelly knows it well. He just wants to focus on what he loves without any distractions. But when he finds himself face-to-face with Rayna Monroe, the girl he left alone and naked on a one night stand, things get complicated. Rayna has just started as a dancer for the corps-de-ballet of NYBT and they are determined to avoid one another. That is until they are both chosen to represent the company in a big competition and dance together.

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Sweet Summer Love

Sierra Hill

Release Date: February 7, 2017

As the senior captain of my college basketball team, I've been steering clear of relationships. I have had to stay focused for the past four years on playing, school and getting drafted in the NBA. Plus, I have nothing left to give another girl anyway, I've given it already. That's why I've honed my ability to charm the pants off girls and I'd like to keep it that way. That was until I ended up in the emergency room and under the care of Logan Shaw, my first love. Now she is back in my life, we need to face the truth and the consequences of our actions those many years ago.

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Looking for more steamy romances? Check out our lists on New Billionaire Romance Novels, Audrey Carlan, Cat Johnson, and J.S. Scott.

 

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New Book Releases Week of February 28

Are you in the mood to settle down with a quality new read? Then, this is the week for you with a host of bestselling authors with new book releases. Those looking to get lost in a romance book can grab the latest from Rachel Van Dyken, K.K. Allen and M. O'Keefe. There's also new releases from huge names like George R.R. Martin, David Baldacci, Patricia Cornwell and even George W. Bush. Happy reading!


Romance

Mystery, Thriller & Suspense


Literary Fiction

Biography & Memoir

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The Buzziest Books of February

February was such a great month for new books! Across all genres, there were some spectacular releases 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 is our collection of the buzziest books of February. Enjoy!

The Buzziest Books of February


 

Echoes in Death

J.D. Robb

Release Date: February 7, 2017

NY Lt. Eve Dallas and her husband are driving home when a young woman -  dazed, naked and bloody - stumbles out in front of their car. Daphne Strazza is rushed to the ER, but it was too late for her husband Anthony. The orthopedic surgeon was found dead in his home and Daphne should be a valuable witness, but in her shocked state can only describe the perp as "the devil". The evidence doesn't point to the spouse, so Eve and her team embark on a desperate race to answer some crucial questions: What does the devil look like? And where will he show up next?

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My Not So Perfect Life

Sophie Kinsella

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Everywhere she looks, Katie Brenner sees people living the life she longs for. Especially her brilliant and creative boss, Demeter Farlowe. While she has the perfect family and posh townhouse, Katie's life is a struggle. Just as she starts to find her feet the worst happens, Demeter fires her. Determined to stay positive, Katie retreats to her family's farm in Somerset to help them set up a vacation business. Her life in London seems so far away... until Demeter shows up as a guest. As the stakes for Katie's future get higher, she has to question her own assumptions about what make a truly meaningful life.

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Norse Mythology

Neil Gaiman

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Gaiman has long used ancient mythology to create the fantasy realms in his works of fiction and now is turning his attention to the source with a rendtion of the great northern tales. Gaiman takes the  primevil stories of Odin, Thor and Loki and fashions them into a novelistic arc. Beginning with the genesis of the legendary nine worlds and diving into the exploits of deities, dwarfs, and giants.

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We Were the Lucky Ones

Georgia Hunter

Release Date: February 14, 2017

In the spring of 1939, three generations of the Kurc family are trying to live normal lives as the shadows of war grow closer. The talk around the table is of budding romance and new babies, not of the increasing hardships for Jews in their hometown of Radom, Poland. Despite their efforts to ignore it, soon the horrors overtaking Europe are inescapable and the Kurcs are flung to the far corners of the world. Spanning five continents and six years, We Were the Lucky Ones shows that even in the face of one of the darkest moments in history, the human spirit can find a way to survive, and triumph.

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Burn

Helen Hardt

Release Date: February 14, 2017

Jonah Steel is desperately trying to solve the mystery of his family's abduction, but the arrival of his best friend has complicated the situation, as has his infatuation with his brother's therapist, Dr. Melanie Carmichael. He is enthralled by the quiet humility of this blond beauty. He has never felt this way about a woman before. Melanie is intelligent and driven but has many regrets. While she is in love with Jonah, she fears she may never be able to tell him her secret. The demons from her past have come back for her, will she get out alive?

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The Night Bird

Brian Freeman

Release Date: February 1, 2017

When a series of strange deaths rock San Francisco, homicide detective Frost Eaton tries to look for answers. Why are seemingly random women suffering violent and psychotic breaks? His investigation leads to psychiatrist Francesca Stein, who uses a controversial form of therapy that erases her patients most terrifying memories...and all of the victims were her patients. As both of them carry out an investigation, someone called the Night Bird taunt the pair with cryptic messages. As the body count rises and the Night Bird circles closer, they race to solve the puzzle before another victim is claimed.

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Wintersong

S. Jae-Jones

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Liesl has heard tales of the beautiful and dangerous Goblin King. He has enraptured her mind, spirit and even inspired her musical compositions. But when her sister is taken by the Goblin King, she has no choice but to venture to the Underground to save her. Captivated by the world she finds and the man who rules it, she soon faces an impossible decision and must discover who she truly is before her fate is sealed.

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Devil in Spring

Lisa Kleypas

Release Date: February 21, 2017

Most debutants dream of finding a husband, but Lady Pandora Ravenel has her own plans. She is an ambitious young woman and would much rather stay at home and plot out her new board game business than take part in the London Season. Her plans are shattered when she is ensnared in a scandal with the handsome Gabriel, Lord St. Vincent. After agreeing to a marriage of convenience, Pandora soon finds herself needing her husband to protect her from a dangerous conspiracy.

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Lincoln in the Bardo

George Saunders

Release Date: February 14, 2017

President Lincoln's beloved eleven year-old son, Willie, lies upstairs in the White House, gravely ill. Despite predictions of a recovery, he dies and is layed to rest in Georgetown cemetry. "My poor boy, he was too good for this earth" the president says. From this seed of historical truth, George Saunders tells an unforgettable story of Willie Lincoln in purgatory where ghosts mingle, gripe, commiserate, quarrel, and enact bizarre acts of pennance

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Black Edge

Sheelah Kolhatkar

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Black Edge tells the story of billinaire trader Steven A. Cohen and the rise and fall of his hedge fund, SAC Capital. In what was the largest insider trading investigation in history, lasting seven years, it was labelled by prosecutors as a "magnet for market cheaters" whose culture encouraged the hunt for the edge or "black edge", otherwise called inside information. This novel looks into this gray zone in which so much of Wall Street functions, and a window into the transformation of the US economy.

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Bestsellers Now in Paperback: February 2017

Check out this month's selection of bestsellers now in paperback! From suspensful mysteries to romantic love stories, there's plenty of new books by best-selling authors for you to enjoy. Get your hands on paperbacks by Daniel Silva, James Patterson, Harlan Coben, Fredrik Backman, Janet Evanovich and many more!


Mystery & Thriller


Literary Fiction


Romance


Fantasy & Science Fiction


Biography & Memoir


Young Adult

Interview with Lisa Eugene, author of By Appointment Only

What can you tell us about your new release, By Appointment Only?

It’s an erotic contemporary romance with lots of twists and surprises. Reviewers are describing it as “a tantalizing fire and ice story!"

If you were a teacher, what book would you assign to your class?

To Kill a Mockingbird hands down.

What or who inspired you to become an author?

I’ve always wanted to be an author, I think even before I could read…lol. I love creating stories and usually have one playing in my head. My friends say I live my life straddling reality and fantasy.

If you could have dinner with anyone, alive or dead, who would you choose and why?

Just one? That’s tough…. my great, great, great, great grandmother.

Pretend you qualified for the Olympics. What sport would you compete in?

Is there an eating competition?….no, really. Eating. I’d win gold.

If you had an extra hour each day, how would you spend it?

Toss up between sleeping and reading…..nail biter here…

What scene in By Appointment Only was your favorite to write?

The first love scene between Chase and Dani! And I got to tell it from HIS point of view! It just shows how emotionally connected they are, and for the first time in the book, they express their love physically.

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

Must have laughter in my life.

Do unto others…

 

Lisa Eugene is the author of the new book By Appointment Only

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Interview with Sawyer Bennett, author of Roman

What can you tell us about your new release, Roman?

Roman is part of the Cold Fury series, and Roman Sykora is the resident Cold Fury bad boy. He has found himself in a bit of hot water with Gray Brannon, the Cold Fury GM, and when he goes to her office for a meeting, he meets Lexi Robertson, a quirky, ukulele playing, barista. He and Lexi are complete opposites, but find something in one another they didn't know they were seeking.

What's on your top 5 list for the best books you've ever read?

To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee

The Chronicles of Narnia (all books) by C.S. Lewis

The Prince of Tides by Pat Conroy

Tick Tock by Dean Kootnz

The Harry Potter Series (all books) by JK Rowling

Who are your literary heroes working today? Why do you admire them?

Kristen Ashley, because she writes the absolute best alphas, and Lauren Blakely, because she is one of the kindest, gracious, and most helpful people I know.

What's your favorite thing about writing?

Writing is stepping into your own personal dream world where you can make anything happen. It’s actually quite powerful and provides a wonderful escape from the realities of life.

What is a typical day like for you?

Wake up and get my munchkin ready for school, work out (I do both mixed martial arts and strength training six days a week), and then get to work writing. I knock off about 5pm, get the munchkin from school and then chill with her and my husband the rest of the night.

If you had to pick one place to vacation for the rest of your life, where would you choose?

Jackson, Wyoming.

What scene in Roman was your favorite to write?

There’s a scene where Lexi and Roman are reconciling after a short breakup on his front porch. It’s funny and sweet and shows how well they click on all levels.

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

You make a living by what you get, you make a life by what you give.

 

Sawyer Bennett is the author of the new book Roman

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New Steamy Contemporary Romance Novels

Who doesn't enjoy a good love story? Nothing beats curling up with a romance book that you can get lost in, fall in love with the characters and their fairytale story... But sometimes you just want a one night stand. You want to spice things up and lust over that bad boy, billionaire or secret crush. To satisfy your craving we've rounded up six of the latest steamy contemporary romance novels for you to enjoy.

New Steamy Contemporary Romance Novels



Cheater

Rachel Van Dyken

Release Date: February 28, 2017

Lucas Thorn wasn't always a cheater. One disastrous incident on the night before his wedding and he ruined his reputation forever. But now he owns the title and is loving every second of it. He has a new lady friend for every night of the week and his rules are simple: no commitments and no exceptions. Avery has never forgiven Lucas for cheating on his sister and she wants to make his life as difficult as possible. But has her lust for vengeance turned into something more?

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Love Story

Lauren Layne

Release Date: February 14, 2017

A new job offer in San Francisco has given Lucy Hawkins a chance to leave her small Virginia hometown behind. To help her get there, her family gives her the keys to their station wagon, but there's a catch. She has to do the cross-country road trip with her brother's best friend, Reece Sullivan. The guy who took Lucy's virginity and broke her heart. When long days bickering in the car turn into steamy nights, could their story have a chance at a happy ending?

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By Appointment Only

Lisa Eugene

Release Date: February 16, 2017

Chase Rutherford is the gorgeous and eccentric older man that owns the special needs school my daughter attends. He also happens to be a millionaire running for Mayor of New York City. Every Tuesday we meet in his office for a welcome reprieve from the hardships in my life. I completely surrender to him and give him my trust. He's the only person I've ever truly trusted. But I know he's hiding something. Will I ever learn his secret?

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Wait for It

M. O'Keefe

Release Date: February 28, 2017

Tiffany doesn't want to play the victim anymore. But with three kids to raise she might be desperate enough to make a deal with her estranged brother-in-law, Blake. He's always been a trouble maker but insists he wants to help. Tiffany isn't sure she trusts this kinder and gentler side of him, but what was once friction between them has now turned into chemistry and desire. Will he be her salvation...or downfall?

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Holding on Tighter

Shayla Black

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Jolie Quinn is a woman in charge with a no-nonsense attitude. The rising star of the fashion world has made her brand a household name among the Dallas elite. Nothing is going to stop her from achieving her goals, not even the gorgeous British security contractor Heath Powell. Heath usually likes to stay unattached, but Jolie challenges him in a way he can't ignore. He won't back down when the reward could feel so good.

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Crossing Hearts

Kimberly Kincaid

Release Date: February 7, 2017

Hunter Cross left behind his football prospects the day he left high school. He's more than happy keeping his family's farm up and running and continuing the legacy. But things get a little more complicated when a shoulder injury puts him face-to-face with his high school sweetheart, the girl who abandoned him twelve years ago.  Will Emerson and Hunter rekindle their past love and will she reveal the secret of why she left?

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Looking for more steamy romances? Check out our lists on New Billionaire Romance Novels, Audrey Carlan, Cat Johnson, and J.S. Scott.

 

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New Book Releases Week of February 21

It's another stellar week for new book releases and now is a great time to stock up on some of your favorite author's releases. Those looking for something new in the romance department should check out the latest from Lisa Eugene, Sawyer Bennett and Lisa Kleypas. Readers wanting to delve into a new mystery can grab new releases from Clare Mackintosh and James Grippando. There's also a new science fiction book from New York Times Bestselling Author James Patterson. Check out all the new releases below!


Romance

Mystery, Thriller & Suspense


Literary Fiction

Biography & Memoir

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