How to Love (Lovestrong #8) by Susan Hawke

 

Release Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway:
How To Love
By Susan Hawke

 LOVESTRONG, Book 8

Take one hurting guy recovering from scandal…

Two years ago, Hunter Riley was ghosted by his long-term boyfriend, then stuck with a ruined reputation when the town mistakenly thought he’d cheated on his ex… a man fighting breast cancer. These days, Hunter is happiest simply taking care of the sick kittens he fosters and rarely leaves his house.

Add one sunny man healing from loss…

Quinn Sullivan is alone in the world but doesn’t let it get him down. He dealt with the grief of losing the last piece of his family by looking to the future, finishing college, moving to a new town, and hitting reset on his life. An instant connection on a never-ending blind date has him ready to move in with Hunter and Quinn can’t see anything possibly ruining it.

To equal a pair who find even instalove requires time and patience.

Life can always catch you off guard, as Quinn discovers when child services arrives with an adorable angel—a piece of his lost twin he didn’t even know was out there—needing a family, needing… him. While Quinn is floundering with his parenting role, Hunter is left thinking he’s been ghosted again until Quinn comes up for air and sets things straight.

Can two guys who fell together so easily have what it takes to build a family?

This is the eighth and final book in the LOVESTRONG series about finding love and being yourself in a small town. Watch out for a three-year-old with an addiction to daytime TV, a diabetic kitten, and the worst wedding interruption ever. This is an mm romance full of all the fun, laughter, and sweet feels you’d want from an S. Hawke book.

Note: The book mentions the death of a sibling through suicide in the past, but no details are on page.

Amazon Link - Available in KU 
Goodreads Link

Catch up on the Lovestrong Series

My Rating - 5 Stars!

How to Love is the eight and final book in Susan Hawke's Lovestrong series. I, for one, am sad to see this series end. 

This book has an interesting premise that's full of forgiveness and second chances in life. 

Hunter and Quinn's romance is as insta-love as it gets and I love it. I enjoy the way they meet and develop into more. I love the way they help one another to heal. 

It's a powerful reminder that not all rumors are true, and that sometimes the facts are misleading. Sometimes reputations are ruined due to incorrect information.

The conflict is well done and I enjoy every moment of their story.

This story has an adorable kid. Of course, the fact that he acts a lot older than his age is not funny at all. But I love the way it's all written. 

And kittens! I love, love, love all the kittens!

The writing is once again superb. I appreciate the way the old characters are around. But most of all, I love seeing the other perspectives in this book from what we learnt in the past. Awww, sweet redemption.

How to Love is a perfect ending to the Lovestrong series. Susan Hawke delights in this hurt/comfort romance. This is a beautiful series and I am thankful to have met all these amazing men. I'm sad it's ending, but I am definitely satisfied with this ending. 

I pulled my attention back to Hunter, remembering our game. "Okay, I have another one for you. I slept with a teddy bear until I was twelve."

He nodded solemnly. "Respect. I'll take your teddy bear story and do you one better. I took my baby blanket to college with me."

I chuckled at the idea of a college freshman carting around a baby blanket. "I call bullshit. Sorry, but there is no way."

Smirking, Hunter held up a Boy Scout salute. "I swear, I totally did. My mom made it into a pillow. There were many long nights when I was homesick and would lie in bed hugging it. Next time you're at my house, remind me, and I'll show it to you."

"I hope you know I'm going to remember. This one I have to see." As the music stopped and the pastor began to speak, I lowered my voice. "Okay, this might be a little personal, but I have a good one for you. I only wear underwear with funny phrases printed on them."

"Seriously? Like what kinds of things do your underwear say?" Was it my imagination, or was Hunter staring at my crotch? "And more importantly, why do you prefer silly underwear?"

Leaning back, I lifted a brow as imperiously as I could manage. When he started to laugh, I played it up, pressing a hand to my heart and pretending to be appalled. "Dude, are you judging my underwear choices? I mean, nobody would think twice if I said I liked to wear lacy drawers. Or if boxers made my heart sing. Hell, I know plenty of guys who wear nothing but jockstraps. Is it really so wrong I would want to wear funny underwear?"

Hunter rolled his eyes. "Don't try to guilt me, Quinn. I have a sister, remember? I can play the guilt game all day. Now spill… tell me what your underwear says right now."

"I mean, I could…" I stood, looking around to make sure nobody could see us. Yeah, we were far enough back, and the railing was so tall, I'd be hidden from view. Especially since we were sitting in the shadows. I swallowed nervously but played it off, glancing back at Hunter. "Or… I could show you?"

Hunter nodded decisively. The guy didn't even take a second to think, immediately earning him several more points in my respect bank. "Yes, drop those pants. Show me what you're hiding underneath to make me laugh."

I'd already started loosening my belt, but I stopped when he spoke, choking on laughter. "Really? You're going to tell a man to drop his pants so you can mock what he's got covered up?"

He flashed me a playful wink. "Damn right I am. You started it, buster. Now drop trou."

I let my pants fall around my ankles and lifted my dress shirt so he could get the full view. With one glance, he started guffawing so hard he nearly choked. My hot pink bikini briefs with the Eat at BJ's Diner sign did look pretty great over my junk. He was laughing so hard tears streamed down his face, but he dropped to his knees and leaned in to read the fine print at the bottom of the sign.

He was so close, his warm breath fanned over my legs. My dick woke up, thickening and hardening in my underwear with every second he was down there. He read the words aloud. "Come and try our cream pie." I waited for him to start chuckling again, but instead, he stroked my growing bulge. "I have another random fact nobody knows about me. I've always wanted to do a sexual act in an inappropriate public place."

I couldn't help but be charmed. Seriously, could this guy be any more perfect? Grinning down at him, I shook my head. "And to think I almost wore my rainbow-colored briefs with All Sass, No Ass printed on the butt. But I had a feeling these were the underwear to wear today, and apparently I was right. My mom was correct—always follow your gut and you won't go wrong."

Enter the Giveaway:

To celebrate Susan's new release, we are giving away 3 e-copies of How To Love!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cc0f2a57173/?

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As an avid reader and big romance fan myself, I love sharing the stories of the different people who live in my imagination. My stories are filled with humor, a few tears, and the underlying message to not give up hope, even in the darkest of times, because life can change on a dime when you least expect it. This theme comes from a lifetime of lessons learned on my own hard journey through the pains of poverty, the loss of more loved ones than I'd care to count, and the struggles of living through chronic illnesses. Life can be hard, but it can also be good! Through it all I've found that love, laughter, and family can make all the difference, and that's what I try to bring to every tale I tell.

I'm a happily married mom with one snarky teenage boy, and three grown "kids of my heart." I'm more widely known for my mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family I mentioned; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy. I look forward to sharing my stories with you, and to bringing more romance and laughter into this world that needs it so very badly.

Connect with Susan:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/authorsusanhawke
FB: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSusanHawke
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan-hawke
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeNewsletter
Audio: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeAudio
Reader Group: www.facebook.com/groups/TheHawkesNest
Website: http://www.susihawke.com

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RELEASE TOUR, EXCERPT, GIVEAWAY & REVIEW - How to Live (Lovestrong #7) by Susan Hawke

 

Release Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway:
How To Live
By Susan Hawke

 LOVESTRONG, Book 7

Take one clueless, spoiled guy with notoriously bad luck…

When Derek Leigh is diagnosed with breast cancer at twenty-four, it’s the final straw in a lifetime of bad luck. If he’s going to die, it’ll be on his terms… with one helluva party that packs a lifetime’s worth of fun into whatever time he has left. To make this happen, Derek blows up his life: dumps the long-term boyfriend in the worst way possible, borrows money he can’t repay from a loan shark, and heads to Atlantic City... where his luck unexpectedly changes, giving him fresh hope.

Add one easygoing tattoo artist with a big, open heart…

Asher Matthews has dealt with a lot in his thirty-five years: he and his twin were born addicted to heroin and abandoned at birth… until Mama Maisie added them to her brood of lost boys. ADHD and dyslexia didn’t keep him from following his dream of opening his own tattoo shop, especially with his family’s support. With all that he’s been given in life, Asher makes a point of giving back where he can.

To equal two men who instantly connect in all the best ways.

Derek is shocked to not only survive his cancer treatment, but to come to the end of it in great health. Too bad he’s blown through all his money, lost his car, and has nowhere to turn. On a whim, he goes for a free tattoo. Asher takes one look at the sexy twink who’s down on his luck and offers him a room, a job, and even better, a friend. If they have a little no-strings fun along the way, it’s fine. It’s not like anyone is looking to fall in love, right?

This 55k novel is the seventh book in the LOVESTRONG series about finding love and being yourself in a small town. Watch out for ridiculous amounts of money won and lost, a butler who takes everything in stride, and a scruffy dog you’ll want to cuddle. This is an mm romance full of all the fun, laughter, and sweet feels you’d want from a Susan Hawke book.

Possible trigger for anyone currently fighting cancer or closely related to a breast cancer patient. The book is low angst and the experience is gently handled, but the subject matter is present.

Universal Link

Lovestrong Series on Goodreads

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

How To Live is the seventh book in Susan Hawke's Lovestrong series. It's a magnificent book, but damn, it's an emotional rollercoaster for sure. 

Derek's the main man in this tale. And, damn, he's both likeable and easy to hate at the same time. When he's diagnosed with breast cancer, it's easy to sympathize. 

But damn, he's also so damn reckless and self sabotaging. To understand him though makes it forgivable. He's a man who assumes he's about to die. He thinks nothing of living in the moment. And damn, it's tough to read. I really wanted to yell at him and smack some sense into him. But, alas, he's careless. And it catches up with him. 

Luckily for him, he meets Asher at a time when he's at rock bottom.

Derek's journey is one hell of a ride. He learns endless amounts about himself by then end. His inability to do the most basic of things is staggering. But, yes, the way it's developed, it makes sense. Trust me, the author knows what she's doing.

As for Asher, well, he's just damn perfect. He's solid, dependable, has a great family, and is all around lovable. Best of all though is the way he deals with Derek.

The breast cancer aspect is fantastic. I love that the author decided to write about a man with breast cancer, as so often people assume a man can't get it. But, yes, they can and they do. I hope a lot of people read this book and take note. 

Susan's writing is amazing. I may not enjoy all of Derek's choices, but the character development is wonderful. And the storyline is heartfelt, emotional, and poignant. 

How to Live is another fabulous addition to this series. Susan Hawke digs deep in this one, to bring us a character who has as many ups and downs in a short period of time that one can have. 

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Hunter used to tell me how cute my cluelessness was, but I never understood how truly out of it I had been until recently. Simply living at the cheap motel was eating up my money at an alarming

rate, especially when I had a real need to eat every day and drove a gas-burning car.

Simply thinking about it had me clenching my fists. I wasn't even meant to still be alive, dammit. And yes, breathing was preferable, but I wasn't supposed to have to worry about finances.

All the money I'd won, and now I was afraid to tip the maids when they brought toilet paper and freshened the room because I might need it to buy a greasy burger from the value menu in another week or two.

"I beg your pardon, Derek. I'm sensing a lot of anger in your demeanor. Would you like to talk about your feelings for a few minutes?" Ted's voice startled me, nearly making me jump.

You could call me an asswipe because you wouldn’t be wrong, but my first thought was maybe if I talked, then Ted would stop. For a few blissful seconds, the monotone would end. For that thought alone, I wanted to slap myself.

Chagrined and blushing, I nodded. "You know what, Ted? You're right. I think I am angry. I should warn you, though. My self-talk is so bitchy I really can't even with my own damn self, so maybe it's best I don't share?"

Ted shocked me by laughing. Actually fucking laughing. "Derek, anger is a healthy emotion, part of the grieving process I was discussing with you. In a couple weeks, you’ll be finished with your cancer treatments, won’t you? This is when real-world problems and emotions start taking over again as the fear of dying recedes. But part of your recovery is whole body, and that means your mind. You have to deal with your feelings, Derek, if you want to be completely healed."

He was so encouraging, I wanted to sink into the floor and bury myself on the spot. Seriously, could I have been a bigger jerk?

"You might be right, Ted. But how will talking about my anger help my other problems? Problems I was apparently too clueless to even see coming in time to make wiser decisions. My ex-boyfriend was right. I might be cute and have a great personality, but I'm really not equipped to manage my own life."

"I feel like your ex-boyfriend might have had good intentions, but he was wrong. You mentioned having a bachelor's degree? Unless somebody earned it for you, its existence alone proves you're capable of being educated. If you don't know how to manage your life, maybe you were never taught?"

Wow. His statement was… something to consider. "I mean, I definitely did the work. But my grandmother paid for my education. I never had to get a job. She wanted me to have the full college experience and not have to worry about anything. And growing up, the household staff took care of my needs. Any decisions were handled by my father."

"And how did your upbringing make you feel, Derek?"

How did I feel? What kind of question was he asking?

"I don't know, Ted. I will have to think about what I feel, I suppose. If you're asking if my upbringing is what I'm angry about, I don't know. Maybe? Please don't take this the wrong way, but I'd rather break something then talk about this more."

Ted's eyes lit up. He sat forward, rubbing his palms together with a surprisingly normal grin. "Then you should. Take something you don't care about or an item with negative memories and destroy it. Smash it, break it, burn it—do whatever it takes. I'll be interested to know if you feel better after it's gone."

Don't ask him, don't go there, don't you do it, Derek. No. Hard, unequivocal no. Annnd on my next breath, I found myself doing it, opening my mouth, and flapping my yap, and yes—arranging a follow-up visit.

It was patently obvious I not only had problems saying no, but I was also a martyr. There was no other explanation why I would voluntarily put myself through another grueling session with Monotone Ted.

Although he had made a good suggestion, and I had to admit the man deserved to hear the story later after I purged my anger in an epic way. First, I needed to figure out what I would destroy.

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Enter the Giveaway:

To celebrate Susan's new release, we are giving away 3 e-copies of How To Live!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

A Rafflecopter Giveaway

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/cc0f2a57146/

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As an avid reader and big romance fan myself, I love sharing the stories of the different people who live in my imagination. My stories are filled with humor, a few tears, and the underlying message to not give up hope, even in the darkest of times, because life can change on a dime when you least expect it. This theme comes from a lifetime of lessons learned on my own hard journey through the pains of poverty, the loss of more loved ones than I'd care to count, and the struggles of living through chronic illnesses. Life can be hard, but it can also be good! Through it all I've found that love, laughter, and family can make all the difference, and that's what I try to bring to every tale I tell.

I'm a happily married mom with one snarky teenage boy, and three grown "kids of my heart." I'm more widely known for my mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family I mentioned; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy. I look forward to sharing my stories with you, and to bringing more romance and laughter into this world that needs it so very badly.

Connect with Susan:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/authorsusanhawke
FB: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSusanHawke
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan-hawke
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeNewsletter
Audio: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeAudio
Reader Group: www.facebook.com/groups/TheHawkesNest
Website: http://www.susihawke.com 

RELEASE TOUR, EXCERPT & REVIEW - How to Forgive (Lovestrong #6) by Susan Hawke

Release Tour & Excerpt:
How to Forgive by Susan Hawke

 LOVESTRONG, Book 6

Take one fabulous unicorn of a person…  

Grayson Davis came back to their hometown after college to help a new generation of kids who might be reliving their own past as a bullied young teen and LGBT teens who are struggling to find their identities in small-town USA. Taking a job as a youth counselor at The Rainbow Kids Foundation is their dream come true… even if it means working for the very man who once bullied them. So what if they can’t forgive Clark Danvers for the past? They can peacefully coexist with Clark and that’s good enough for Gray. As for their personal life, well… who needs one? They have family, friends, and their crazy cat Spike. As for everything else? Well, there’s an app for that.

Add one flirty, pansexual biker who’s the opposite of an outlaw…

Canaan “Wolf” Matthews isn’t looking for love, let alone commitment. He’s busy running a club of bikers who do their part to rescue kids from bad situations, help abused spouses escape, and accompany social workers into the rough areas when it’s not a case for the cops but backup is a necessity. Meeting Gray while on his way home from a hookup—with the evidence clearly crusted on his shirt like a merit badge—isn’t quite the meet cute Wolf would’ve wanted when he found the one person who could make his little pan heart go pitter-pat. Like everything else in his life, Wolf decides to roll with it and see what happens.

To equal two people who might just be what the other needs.

Gray only wants to have fun with Wolf. No strings necessary. So why do they keep reaching out to the annoyingly cute biker when things get dicey for a teen who’s dealing with a situation that is far too relatable for Gray? Anxieties flare and forgiveness beckons as Gray starts to see their old nemesis, Clark, for the person he is today. Before Gray can plan a future, they need to make peace with their past. With Wolf’s support, can Gray finally learn how to forgive and find their way to a full and happy life?

This is the sixth book in the LOVESTRONG series about finding love and being yourself in a small town. Intended only for 18+ readers, this is an mm romance full of all the fun, laughter, and sweet feels you’d want from an S. Hawke book.

Amazon US   *   Universal Link

Goodreads

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My Rating - 5 Stars!

How To Forgive, the sixth book in Susan Hawke's Lovestrong series, is a wonderful hurt/comfort romance. It can be read as a standalone, but it definitely means more if read as part of the series. 

The first page drew me in, with Gray immediately weaving their way into my heart. Is there a funnier meet cute that Gray and Wolf's? Probably not. 

Although a romance between Gray and Wolf, much of this story revolves around Gray's interactions with his former bully, Clark. The man still gives them panic attacks, I could feel their pain throughout. As we read about Clark in How to Heal, Clark's own horrific journey and coming to terms with his past is explored. Now we get to follow as Gray deals with Clark and the journey to forgive themselves and escape from their pain. 

Gray is gender fluid, having loved feminine clothes from an early age. Of course, this easily led to them being bullied, which has shaped them into the person they are now. Overall, there is a lot going on in this story. Grey needs to deal with their feelings about Clark, somehow trying to not have panic attacks when they see him, as well as learning to forgive him. It's a tough journey for them and I applaud the way the author handled this, with care and compassion. 

And then there's Gray's relationship with Wolf. Wolf loves Gray's sassy attitude and can't resist the younger Gray. Wolf is an absolute hoot, keeping you on your toes throughout. He is caring, supportive, and extremely funny. Wolf's a big, tough looking biker who finds the perfect person to settle him down.

I always love the author's writing style. The writing if fabulous, the characters complex and lovable, and their journey touching and heartfelt. The reader is treated to appearances of many former main characters, helping the town to exist realistically in our minds. This whole series is just fabulous. 

How to Forgive is a touching tale of accepting one's past and moving forward. Susan Hawke addresses the need to not let one's past define them and I love every minute of it. 

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After the laughter died down, Dana pulled a paper out of her apron pocket and passed it my way. "Wolf, this is for you. A cute little twink was desperately trying to get your attention. Poor thing was downright dejected. After I found out what was wrong, I explained that when you brothers get together it's sacred and promised to give you his number."

Nobody blinked an eye because it wasn't anything Dana hadn't done before when someone had asked about one of us. What did seem to surprise everyone was when I pushed it aside without looking at it.

Josh leaned over to put the back of his hand against my forehead, as if checking my temperature. "No, no fever. How's your appetite, Wolf? I just want to know if we should call your doctor before rushing to the emergency room."

Rolling my eyes, I flicked the paper his way. "Ever think I'm just not looking for that right now? Here, you call the guy. I'm sure he'll be just as happy."

Josh tapped his fingers against the table. "You’re scaring me, bro. If it was just this one, that would be one thing. But you've barely been watching the show, you turned that girl down who offered to buy you a drink when we got here, and I haven't seen you quietly trolling like you're planning who you're picking up when the rest of us leave. What's up with that?" Josh was on a roll now. "Wolf, tell me the truth. Are you dying? On a fourteen-day course of antibiotics? Please, tell me what I can do.”

Asher nodded solemnly. "Josh is right, Wolf. You’ve been turning down possible tricks from both genders. I'm trying to think when's the last time I saw you with someone. It's definitely been a minute. Everything okay? For real though, I'm not even playing."

Dana laughed but fortunately couldn't stay to help give me crap since she was needed at the bar. Mal watched her walk away then turned to me with a suspicious look. "I thought I was imagining things when I saw you talking to Kandi's kid at Becca's engagement party. And I could've sworn I saw you leaving together. Then I heard Becca on the phone with Gray before she left town and she was giving them hell for not saying why they'd left early or who they were with. Anything you care to share?"

My eyes bugged out of my head as I glanced at the stage where Kandi was currently performing a Britney Spears number. "Oh, hell. I was so focused on my cutie that I didn't even think about their last name. So Grayson is Kandi's kid?"

Rick looked concerned as he nodded. "Step kid, same difference. Tread carefully there. You do know they work for Clark too, right? And there's some bad history there?"

I whistled softly, ignoring the part about Clark for now. I was too blown away by the Kandi connection. "Damn. They made a joke about the Venn diagram of all the people connecting us and they weren’t wrong. Can you believe I had no idea who they were? I've probably passed them hundreds of times in town before I happened to notice them at Sally's a couple weeks ago.”

Shaking my head now, I had to laugh at my own idiocy. “I actually asked if they were new in town. God, no wonder they think I'm a schmuck. Well, that and I was obviously coming from a hookup. Turns out using your shirt in the dark to wipe cum then wearing it when you stop to grab coffee is a bad plan. Huh. So Gray is Kandi's kid. Small world."

"Like Rick said, tread carefully." Mal sat up straighter, sounding like a stern stepfather himself. Kinda cute when you considered the fact that his stepdaughter was only six years younger than him and Asher. "I'm serious, Wolf. Gray is Becca's best friend. They aren't a one and done. If you treat them like your average trick, Mama Kandi will bitchslap your ass."

Shaking my head, I held both palms up. "Calm down. I get that I have a certain reputation, but that's just it. I’m not treating them like that at all. They got under my skin and I was the one who got ghosted. They put their number in my phone, and I've tried calling and texting for the past two weeks. But they aren't answering. A few times I've seen moving dots like they were typing a text, but nothing. It's been frustrating as hell."

Asher slapped the table as he guffawed. "Holy shit, you guys. I never thought I'd see the day that Wolf was the guy who can't take a hint."

Pouting, I picked at the label on my beer for a few moments. "I really like them though. I don't know why, but there's just something special about them. And not just because they didn't fall for my usual shit. They're the perfect blend of sass and snark. And so fucking smart. I'm telling you, I can't put my finger on it but Grayson Davis is unique and I like it."

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As an avid reader and big romance fan myself, I love sharing the stories of the different people who live in my imagination. My stories are filled with humor, a few tears, and the underlying message to not give up hope, even in the darkest of times, because life can change on a dime when you least expect it. This theme comes from a lifetime of lessons learned on my own hard journey through the pains of poverty, the loss of more loved ones than I'd care to count, and the struggles of living through chronic illnesses. Life can be hard, but it can also be good! Through it all I've found that love, laughter, and family can make all the difference, and that's what I try to bring to every tale I tell.

I'm a happily married mom with one snarky teenage boy, and three grown "kids of my heart." I'm more widely known for my mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family I mentioned; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy. I look forward to sharing my stories with you, and to bringing more romance and laughter into this world that needs it so very badly.

Connect with Susan:

IG: https://www.instagram.com/authorsusanhawke
FB: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSusanHawke
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/susan-hawke
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeNewsletter
Audio: http://bit.ly/SusanHawkeAudio
Reader Group: www.facebook.com/groups/TheHawkesNest
Website: http://www.susihawke.com

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RELEASE BLITZ, EXCERPT, GIVEAWAY & REVIEW - The Reluctant Alpha (West Coast Wolves #1) by Susi Hawke

Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway:

The Reluctant Alpha by Susi Hawke

West Coast Wolves, Book One

“As much as I felt bad for this Elisha person—God, my heart was breaking for the young man and all he'd been through—I was also angry. I'd left that pack in my rearview ten years ago for a good reason.”

Matthias Longclaw is happy living his life on the back of his beloved Harley with his five best friends and brothers-in-arms at his side. The West Coast Wolves are a rare pack of alphas, made up of unwanted orphans and second-born sons. The packs they were born to may not have wanted them, but they’ve built a solid family of their own. They help where they can, doing random acts of kindness and expecting nothing in return, just helping to build a world they want to live in.

Then Matt gets a call from an old childhood buddy. He’s being called back—begged to return—to reclaim his birthright and save a life in the process. The problem is… to do it, he will have to take a mate. And if he refuses? The omega will die. 

Torn between his duty to help others and his resentment of his old pack, Matt never expects for Elisha Whitetail to tilt his world and change everything. Can Matt and Elisha rebuild a broken pack while tending to a new love and a growing family while dealing with outside threats from neighboring packs? 

They’re wolves. Strong, proud, and willing to do what it takes when their community needs them… whatever it takes.

This is the first in a new series about finding joy in a hard world, building family, and discovering that life can surprise a person when they least expect it. Although this world has harsher themes than my previous books, it still has the same heart you’d expect. Plus a dose of my irreverent humor and all the naughty, knotty heat that comes with true mates. It wouldn’t be a Susi Hawke book without it. Be sure to read the author's note at the beginning for possible trigger warnings.

Tropes: age-gap, fated mates, mpreg, found family, building a pack

Amazon US    *    Universal Link

Goodreads

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

The Reluctant Alpha, the first book in the West Coast Wolves, is awesome. This Susi Hawke book looks to be the start of another enjoyable shifter series. 

The title sets the reader on the right path, as Matt returns to his old pack to save a dying omega. He never wanted to be a part of the old pack, but his returning makes him realize things have changed. And he reluctantly agrees to be the pack alpha. 

This is a story with a lot of fighting over pack leadership, and Matt needs to firmly take his place as leader. 

There are fated mates, family, as well as a sense of community and family. Their tale has a pregnancy, some danger, and some fantastic secondary characters who contribute greatly to the story, helping establish the new dynamics of this pack. 

Elisha's an omega who has suffered a lot, but with Matt saving him, they find love and healing. They are true mates, leading to Matt accepting the new baby as his own. 

I love the tone of this story, and the writing is fantastic as always, leaving me unable to put it down. 

The Reluctant Alpha is sweet, tender, and well developed. 

I'm excited to see what else Susi Hawke does with this series. 

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Special Release Excerpt:

Jared wasn't offended, or maybe he was more focused on the outcome than on what was said getting there. "Matty, Elisha didn't ask to be your uncle's mate. When he was taken and forcibly claimed, he was barely of age. Think about it like this—your uncle was worse than our old alpha, so what kind of a life do you think he’s had here? And now he’s pregnant and was left to die by his own father? While I know most alphas wouldn’t care about some omega and his pup, I believe you would. Do you, old friend? Or have you changed so radically in the years since you’ve gone?"

Dammit. The guy was good at negotiating—and emotional blackmail—I'd give him some credit. Not only had he called me Matty, but he had to tack on ‘old friend.’ Tucker, standing close enough to easily hear both halves of the conversation, shook his head. I didn't know whether he was telling me to stand my ground or reminding me of our code.

Fuck me, I don’t have a choice. I have to do this, no matter how much it kills me. Nevertheless, I tried one more time to beg off.

"You ask too much, Jared. This is unfair. You want me to come back and fight to retake the pack from Monty—since we both know he won't hand it over—and you are asking me to forcibly claim a delirious omega who was already abused by my uncle. And then you want me to accept the responsibility of his pup, too. Is that what you're saying? Feel free to correct me if I'm wrong."

Jared spoke in a rush, relief evident in his voice when he realized there was a chance I would give in. "There's just no other way, Matty. Newberry Springs invaded this morning. Half of our Delta soldiers were killed, and the others were either taken or left to die. Isaac—our current epsilon healer—saved the ones he could. I have all the wounded here, along with the four gammas from our ruling council.”

He paused barely long enough to take a breath. “We've sequestered ourselves in the alpha mansion. Monty and his men left a few hours ago with every able man and boy of working age. They took them back to Newberry Springs, leaving women and children and the elderly or physically challenged men behind. About thirty-one pack members remain, aside from the council and the injured deltas. Matty, I’m turning to you because I don’t know what else to do. I can't protect them and the alpha mate at the same time. And I certainly can’t claim him. I need help from a real alpha who I can trust to save both Elisha and our pack."

When I heard Monty had left his son behind, I knew immediately I would do as Jared asked. I still had a few questions, though.

"Jared, I remember Monty Whitetail as being a hardass. But surely he didn't mean to basically murder his own son? Especially when he's pregnant? He knows about the pup, doesn’t he? Exactly how long has my uncle had this omega there? I've calmed down, so I'm thinking our packs are no more than an hour apart. Why didn't Monty save his son sooner? I mean, he has to have been there at least a few weeks, right? Detecting the pregnancy before then would’ve been impossible unless your healer stumbled over it during an examination or something."

As if it broke his heart to say the words, Jared spoke solemnly. "Your uncle brought Elisha here over six months ago. His father had more than enough time to find and rescue him. The truth is, he's been negotiating with Alpha Horace for a payout. When our Alpha didn't meet his terms, Monty threw down the challenge. Understand this, Matthias. Monty doesn't want Elisha back. He told me—and this is a direct quote—to let the mutt die. He said his only worth was as a bartering chip for a pact he'd been trying to make with an alpha in Arizona. Their deal fell through when Elisha was stolen, and Monty focused on getting some sort of payback from Alpha Horace. Now Monty has everything he wants and no reason to rescue someone he considers used goods."

"Fuck! I have to do this, don't I?" I was speaking more to myself than to Jared.

"We need you, Matty. We need you to save Elisha and to save our pack. We could’ve used your leadership for years. But now you're our last hope. I know I'm asking a lot, but the pack we have now aren't the same people who were here when you left. Most of our parents' generation either moved along after Alpha Horace came into power or have died out. The ones here now are mostly a mix of new blood and the people we grew up with.

You might not have to kill Monty, you know. You could offer a ceremonial challenge, where whoever strikes first blood wins, and wrest control of the pack without any blood on your hands. But if you did have to kill him, Elisha wouldn’t blame you. And you'll like Elisha, I mean it. He's young, but he's an old soul with a gentle sweetness about him. Oh, and he’s a great cook. A real homebody… but then, I’ve heard most omegas are pretty shy."

"You don't have to sell me on his qualities as a mate, Jared. Even if he was a complete asshole, I would still be willing to save his life. He’s the victim here, and I damned well know it." Sighing, I pushed away from the pool table and paced back and forth. I didn't want to do this but… shit. There was no other choice.

Considering everything Jared said, I felt better about the decision I was about to make, though I had to ramble through my thoughts. "I'd be within my rights whether I chose the ceremonial or traditional challenge. Either way, I would avenge my uncle's death, as heinous as the idea sounds. And I would be asserting my rights on behalf of my new mate and his unborn child. If I'm the one who acts, the Supreme Council won't have a reason to intervene. The Territory Chief will sign off on it without question. Dammit. I really was your only option."

Jared spoke softly, his voice thick with emotion. "There is nobody else, old friend. But even if there were, you’re the most trustworthy alpha I’ve ever met. Being your pack beta would be my honor.” With a soft sigh, he paused for a second. “Matty, I hate to ask this of you, but we need you—Elisha needs you—and time grows short."

"Give me an hour and a half to get there. And Jared? Thank you for giving a shit. But do me a favor? I don't like the idea of the weaker pack members being left unguarded in town while you and the gammas are sequestered. Tell those gamma wolves to get off their asses and go get every leftover pack member. I want them behind the safety of those walls, and I want it done before I get there, or my first act as alpha will be finding some new gammas."

Jared chuckled lightly. "There's the alpha I remember. Hurry home, Matty. It's been far too long."

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Enter the Giveaway:

To celebrate Susi's new series release, we are giving 2 lucky winners the chance to win an e-copy of their choice from Susi's backlist!

Enter the Rafflecopter giveaway for your chance to win!

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I'm a happily married mom of one snarky teenage boy, and three grown "kids of my heart." As a reader and big romance fan myself, I love sharing the stories of the different people who live in my imagination. My stories are filled with humor, a few tears, and the underlying message to not give up hope, even in the darkest of times, because life can change on a dime when you least expect it. This theme comes from a lifetime of lessons learned on my own hard journey through the pains of poverty, the loss of more loved ones than I'd care to count, and the struggles of living through chronic illnesses. Life can be hard, but it can also be good! Through it all I've found that love, laughter, and family can make all the difference, and that's what I try to bring to every tale I tell.

Connect with Susi:

Website: https://susihawke.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/susi.hawke/
Twitter https://twitter.com/susihawkeauthor
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/susi.hawke/
Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheHawkesNest

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BLOG TOUR, EXCERPT & REVIEW - Dancing With Daddy by Susan Hawke

Blog Tour & Excerpt:

Dancing with Daddy by Susan Hawke

Goodreads Link

 

I love my daughter, but finding out she wasn’t biologically mine is the best news ever.

I’m a widower who is too scared to have the stupid test that would tell me whether or not I even have the gene that would mean dealing with a horrible illness and certain death. A gene that could’ve also been passed to my child, had she been mine.

She’ll need her father, if something ever does happen to me…That’s why I search for Maddie’s biological father, and when I find him, ask him to become part of her life.

What I didn’t expect is for him to become my best friend. Shane is fun and easygoing, the exact opposite of me. He makes me laugh. He’s the perfect antidote for my neurotic existence. And he’s bi, like me.

But am I courageous enough to take the leap into falling in love with him?

Dancing with Daddy is a super sweet, full-length, standalone, feel good mm romance. There’s no angst, just two very opposite men who befriend each other super fast then slowly find their way to love…all while parenting the precocious five-year-old who belongs to both of them.

Amazon Link - Available in KU    *     Universal Link   

Goodreads | BookBub

Audio coming soon. Narrated by Michael Dean

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My Rating - 4 Stars!

Dancing With Daddy is an beautiful book by Susan Hawke. 

This is a story with a single dad, an adorable child, and her newly discovered biological dad. In a nice twist, this is an low angst story, despite a subject matter that could be high angst. 

Every moment of this book is precious. This is the tale of two men who meet under some confusing circumstances. From there, they become quick friends, and eventually more. 

It's a feel good read, full of hope and sweetness. 

The author excels in writing cute kids. Maddie is adorable and completely loveable. And of course, her dad are fantastic fathers to her. 

Dancing With Daddy is a must read when you're in the mood for low-angst, sweet and tender love story. Susan Hawke will not leave you disappointed. Every moment of this book is pleasant and happy. 

 

   

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Bradley

"Can I be done now, Daddy? My tummy hurts." Maddie pouted adorably, giving me her best puppy dog eyes.

I fought back the instant panic that came whenever my baby was sick, reminding myself that things weren't always as they seemed. For instance, Maddie wasn't exactly a fan of oatmeal. Sure, she'd eat it. 

Reluctantly and with a healthy dose of cinnamon and brown sugar. 

Feeling calmer, I set my empty bowl aside and studied her thoughtfully. "Would your tummy still hurt if I'd made pancakes?" 

"The tiny little circle ones or the big kind you make on special days?" 

I fought the urge to laugh. The little stinker was obviously not feeling as badly as she'd have me think. "Either one; they both taste just as good." 

She nodded as solemnly as a five-and-a-half-year-old could pull off. "I think my tummy could eat the little ones. We could try it, I guess?" She shrugged, as if willing to make the sacrifice. 

"How about we save those for Saturday? Today is Thursday and you have school in half an hour. Now finish your oatmeal, it's brain food." 

Maddie obediently took a spoonful and wrinkled her nose with a distrustful look at the offending food before taking the bite. As soon as she'd swallowed, she clutched her stomach and winced. "My tummy doesn't like brain food today, Daddy." 

I bit my lip, wondering if maybe she wasn't faking it. Leaning over, I rested the back of my hand against her forehead. "You don't have a temperature, pipsqueak. I think the problem is you let your food get cold and now you don't like it." 

She glowered and pouted, only making a small “hmph” noise as she ate another spoonful. I couldn't handle how cute she was, but then I never could resist my daughter. I lowered my hand to her ribs and lightly tickled her. When Maddie squirmed away from my touch with a shrieking giggle, I figured she was okay. 

I waited until she took three more excruciatingly slow bites before deciding she'd had enough. "Okay, I think you’ve eaten enough to fuel your brain. Go wash your hands and brush your teeth. I'll be in to check as soon as I get our dishes rinsed." 

Maddie shoved her bowl toward me with both hands, her face lighting up with relief. "Thank you, Daddy. I know, you don’t have to say it… hurry so we don't be late but make sure I brush good." 

Amused by how she’d parroted what I must say a bit too often, I chuckled and caught her around the waist when she stood to rush off, pulling her back against my side while I kissed the top of her head. "You're a good girl, pipsqueak. Thank you for minding." 

She tilted her head back to see me, smiling at me upside down. "I tried to be good, Daddy. But my tummy didn't like our breakfast today." 

I kissed her forehead then released her, giving her bottom a playful swat as I sent her off. "I hear you, loud and clear. Tomorrow is Friday; maybe we'll celebrate the end of our week with Raisin Bran. Now go wash up before it gets much later." 

"Okay. Love you!" Maddie took off running around the corner, her long brown hair fluttering behind her.

"Love you too, pipsqueak." I laughed under my breath while I cleared the table and straightened the kitchen.

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About Susan:

As an avid reader and big romance fan myself, I love sharing the stories of the different people who live in my imagination. My stories are filled with humor, a few tears, and the underlying message to not give up hope, even in the darkest of times, because life can change on a dime when you least expect it. This theme comes from a lifetime of lessons learned on my own hard journey through the pains of poverty, the loss of more loved ones than I'd care to count, and the struggles of living through chronic illnesses. Life can be hard, but it can also be good! Through it all I've found that love, laughter, and family can make all the difference, and that's what I try to bring to every tale I tell.

I'm a happily married mom with one snarky teenage boy, and three grown "kids of my heart." I'm more widely known for my mpreg writings as Susi Hawke; this new name is a departure from that. Whether written by Susan or Susi, the books are filled with that all-important love, laughter, and family I mentioned; the only difference is that this name has no male pregnancy. I look forward to sharing my stories with you, and to bringing more romance and laughter into this world that needs it so very badly.

Connect with Susan:

 
Facebook Page | Twitter | Instagram

Website |  | Facebook Group: The Hawke's Nest

Amazon Page | Goodreads | BookBub

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