MF - Cowboy (Busy Bean #2) by L.B. Dunbar

 

COWBOY BY L.B. DUNBAR

Release Date: March 1, 2021

Cover Design: Elle Maxwell Designs

Series page: https://hearteyespress.com/wotn#/busy-bean/

Goodreads

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Pregnant at forty-two? Back the cow up...

Harland Bull Eaton has lost many things—his first wife, his beloved mother, those three women he proposed to . . . Oh, and there was that time he almost lost the family dairy farm due to a scandal. He’s losing faith in just about everything, especially love. 

But one night, his friends give him a dare. No commitments. No heartbreak. Just buy that gorgeous redhead a drink. The big-city bombshell he’s set his eyes on swirls him into a tailspin that lands them in bed for a one-night stand he’s pretty sure he’ll never forget. But this time, he swears, he won’t let his heart ride herd on his common sense. 

Recently separated and newly unemployed, Scarlett Russell is at a crossroads. With no other plan than visiting a friend in Vermont, the last thing she expects is a hunky, silver fox offering to buy her a drink. Even less expected is when she raises that offer to “take me to bed, cowboy.” She just wants one night to forget everything gone wrong.

Turns out once won’t be nearly enough. Won’t ever be enough, feeling the way she does. But secrets and an unexpected surprise are a lot to handle . . . unless these two can break a trail to an unexpected happily ever after.

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My Rating - 4.5 Stars!

Cowboy is LB Dunbar's contribution to the multi-author Busy Bean series. So far, it's a wonderful, heartfelt series. 

This one starts off with a one night stand between Bull and Scarlett. Bull never expects to see her again, but by the time he does, she's working at the Busy Bean and is pregnant. 

But is he the daddy? No one knows, as she slept with her husband the week before sleeping with Bull? She slept with her husband the day before finding out he was leaving her for his pregnant girlfriend. Ouch!

Scarlett's age is a big factor in their story, as she's 42 and never expected to be pregnant at this age. 

I enjoy everything about the relationship that develops between the two. Bull is just wonderful. Absolutely lovable. He's caring, protecting, and will do anything for her. And damn, he's hot for her!

But their tale is full of their own doubts and insecurities, the fact that Scarlett's future is up in the air, and some outside interference.

I continue to love the small town and the coffee shop. Everything about this Sarina Bowen created world is just perfect. 

Cowboy is a great accidental pregnancy romance. Don't miss this LB Dunbar book the next time you're in the mood for famers, small town love, or two people falling in love when they weren't trying to. 

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Cowboy by L.B. Dunbar - Excerpt for Bloggers

“A coffee, black, no sugar, no cream, and a caramel macchiato with exactly five drizzles

of caramel, fifteen pumps of vanilla syrup, whipped cream, and an extra shot.”

What the . . .

Thank God, I did not take that order. I don’t even know what that is. There’s a pause

and I’m wondering what’s happening when Bull says, “You have a little something . . .”

I just want to die a slow death as I imagine him swiping at the corner of her lip or wiping

off her nose and that sweet, tender touch will be all the spark she needs to want to

pounce on this man behind me. Bull has these deep blue eyes and that silver speckled

scruff, plus his hair that looks artfully streaked with gray. He’s just all around sexy and

he doesn’t even know it about himself. Then, his touch. The soft strokes down my

body and the delicate dips of his fingers, I just can’t—

“Have either of you seen Scarlett?” Audrey asks.

Frick.

“Scarlett?” Bull chokes behind me.

“Yeah, Scarlett. She’s our newest barista and I swear she was out here.”

“I didn’t see anyone,” Vermont Barbie states. “But then again, I’ve only been looking

at Bull.”

Okay, that’s enough.

“Found it,” I say, popping up from behind the couch and holding my fingers pinched

together like I’ve just found gold in them there wood floorboards.

“Scarlett?” Audrey blinks at me with those expressive eyes of hers . She’s a petite

blond with a lot of power behind her personality. I slowly stand but find myself dizzy as

I do and grip the back of the couch for support.

“Whoa.” I blurt, unable to stop myself as the room spins and my legs tremble. My skin

runs cold, but I break out in a full body sweat.

“Scarlett, are you okay?” Audrey asks, rushing to the edge of the couch while Bull

quickly stands to face me.

“I . . . yeah, I just think I stood up too fast.” However, that isn’t the full explanation

because that rush to my head has now settled back down to my belly.

“You sure you’re okay? You look a little gray,” Audrey asks.

“I . . . excuse me.” Rushing around the couch, I fight the pull to look at Bull, as I

disappear behind the counter, bypassing our waiting customers with one finger in the

air, and then press out the door to the grassy area behind the building for some

much needed fresh air. Once outside, I promptly bend forward and heave.

“Oh my God, are you okay?” Audrey says behind me and I close my eyes, embarrassed

by my position in front of my boss. Audrey’s younger than me, but a good, business

woman and kind-hearted. She took me on without any prior experience in the coffee

industry.

“Yeah. Just something I ate, I think.” I honestly don’t know. It’s been a few weeks like

this, nausea, fatigue, and then if I do get sick, which doesn’t always happen, I feel a

million times better once I vomit. “I just have a little stomach bug, but I don’t have a

fever. I’m so sorry about this.” I point to the grass which holds no evidence of how my

stomach felt. “And that.” I nod toward the café.

Audrey’s brows crease as she examines my face. “What else is wrong? As far as how

you are feeling?”

I consider it a second and then answer. “My boobs hurt. My back kills. And I had a tuna

fish sandwich for breakfast the other day. I think there was something wrong with the

mayonnaise.” Then I reconsider what I’ve said. That sandwich the other morning had

been the best damn tuna fish in the world and the last thing I’d ever eat when it comes

to a breakfast item.

Audrey’s lips slowly curl and her eyes spark like she knows something. “Scarlett,

could you be pregnant?”

“What? No. Heaven’s no. Absolutely not. I . . .” I stare back at her, horrified at the

notion. I’m forty-two. I’m recently divorced. I cannot be pregnant at this stage of my life.

“No. I am definitely not pregnant.”

MF - Sweetheart (Busy Bean #1) by Sarah Mayberry

 

SWEETHEART BY SARAH MAYBERRY

Release Date: March 1, 2021

Cover Design: Elle Maxwell Designs

Series page: https://hearteyespress.com/wotn#/busy-bean/

Goodreads Link

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Purchase here:

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Kobo * Nook

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The first Busy Bean novel is an achy breaky romance with gorgeous writing! - Sarina Bowen

I just wanted to get my hands on his beans

Four years ago, I had a ridiculous crush on my sister's boyfriend. But when they moved away together, I put Beck out of my mind and my heart. But now he's back, and roasting the best coffee in Vermont. I need to convince him to supply the Busy Bean. And I need more of those kisses we accidentally shared outside the coffee shop. He still makes my heart race faster than a triple shot of espresso.

She should be off limits, but instead she's pushing mine

Her sister burned my life to the ground, so Haley Elliot is the last woman I should bring into my bed. Although our business relationship is giving way to something more than a fine grind. Neither of us can help ourselves. And what’s worse, I think I’m falling for her.

But it’s a small town, and ours is a big secret. And when her sister blows back into town, suddenly the coffee isn’t the only thing brewing...

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My Rating - 5 Stars!

Sweetheart is the first book in the multi author Busy Bean series. This Sarah Mayberry contribution is a fabulous M/F romance.

I love the Busy Bean. It's a wonderful place to set a series around. Part of Sarina Bowen's True North world, it's full of characters we've come to love and adore, creating the perfect setting. 

This is the story of Haley and Daniel (Beck). Daniel used to date Haley's sister and things didn't end well. He wants nothing to do with Haley when he sees her. But, once she breaks him down a little, and he agrees to help her, things start to change. 

Now, let's start with the sister's ex thing. I know a lot of people won't read that trope and I understand. Trust me, I do. But, Haley's sister has some major mental illness issues and his relationship with her was anything but healthy. So, maybe that will help you. Maybe not. It definitely helped me.

The big part of this tale is Haley's sister. Basically, one would say she's crazy and her family babies her. She has undiagnosed mental issues and her past attempts at suicide have left her family walking on egg shells around her.

The result? Haley spends her life focusing on her sister's needs. And her parents do the same. No matter how she feels about Daniel, she can't left herself upset her sister by being with him. Basically, it's a major forbidden relationship. 

In the end, this story is absolutely amazing. I couldn't put it down. The connection between Haley and Daniel is fabulous and one can't help but to root for them for to be together. Their journey isn't easy, as it's full of obstacles, but they are definitely wonderful together.

The family issues are a problem throughout. It's a tough thing to read. Jess is awful. Just awful. But, her part of the story is both heart breaking and gut wrenching. But in the end, I love the way everything is resolved. 

As well, Haley's issues with her parents had me ready to cry. It's just heart breaking to read. But, again, in the end, it's all well resolved.

The writing is gripping and I enjoyed it all, other than there being a few too many "he saids" for my liking. Yes, that pesky pet peeve of mine.

Sweetheart is a riveting small town romance. This is my first Sarah Mayberry read and I definitely enjoyed it. I am excited to see what happens next in this multi-author series. 

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Sweetheart by Sarah Mayberry - Excerpt for Bloggers

You know that thing where the rational part of your brain decides on a sensible course of action and commits to it, but then the murky, primal, unsupportive part of your brain refuses to get on board? The Germans probably have a name for it, something hard to pronounce with lots of umlauts. All I had was a feeling, and it hit me on a regular basis over the next couple of weeks whenever Beck set foot in the Busy Bean. 

Every time I saw him propped in the kitchen doorway sharing a laugh with Zara, I felt it.   When I realised Roddy had started using Beck as a taste tester for recipes he was developing, even though they barely knew each other, I got a big, hard dose of it. And the day I left the cafe to find Beck and his dog playing with Audrey and her two kids down by the river bank, I was awash with it. 

If I had to parse this feeling into its component parts, it would be made up of nine-tenths envy and one-tenth wistfulness. With a sprinkle of sexual jealousy thrown in, just for kicks and giggles. 

Because I wanted Beck to laugh with me the way he laughed with Zara. I wanted us to have the kind of relationship where I could run ideas past him, the kind of friendship where I could come upon him and his dog down by the river and feel free to hang out with them.  

I was fully aware that this stupid, stubborn longing I was experiencing was at complete  odds with my decision to respect his obvious desire to have as little to do with me as possible, but no matter how many times I told myself I didn't care, the lump of concrete in the pit of my stomach said otherwise. 

The problem was that Beck was just one of those people that other people wanted to be around. He'd always been that way, hence the fact that my sister had wanted him, and the fact that I'd developed my ridiculous, hopeless-cause crush on him in the first place. 

  He had a natural ease and charm that made people smile, even if they were having a shitty day.  He gave good banter, and he knew how to tease people in a gentle, utterly harmless way that made them feel like they were special because he'd noticed them.  And he was curious about people, asking lots of questions and genuinely listening to their answers. 

It probably didn't hurt that he was extensively easy on on the eyes, either.

All of this worked together to make him a warm, real presence that people wanted to get closer to, like campers gathering around a fire at night. 

I witnessed the power of his charisma over and over, in the way Audrey stood a half-foot closer to him than she did to other people, even though she was madly in love with her husband Griff, and in the way Roderick launched into an amusing anecdote whenever Beck arrived with his delivery, as though he'd been waiting to share the story with him.  Even snarky, cynical Zara wasn't immune, spending extra minutes chatting to him on the phone when she called through our bi-weekly order, her laughter ringing through the cafe. 

Everybody loved Beck, and Beck loved everybody - with the notable exception of me.

Fighting for Love (Cut to the Feeling #2) by Noah Steele

Amazon Link

Goodreads Link

Blurb

When daydreamer Oliver Park falls—literally—into the arms of a boy he’s never seen at the coffee house before, the spark of mystery muscle boy Seth Kane’s touch sends him reeling.

He hasn’t felt anything like it since he was in love with his ex-boyfriend turned best friend Aiden. When Seth asks Oliver out, the immediate heat between them is too great to ignore.

But Seth is holding back.

Are stolen moments with Oliver enough, or will Seth’s growing love risk putting a target on Oliver’s back? Someone dangerous stands in the way of the new couple’s happily ever after. Someone willing to do whatever it takes to keep Seth and Oliver apart.

Can Seth get close to Oliver without letting the sweet, soft boy get too close?

What if the truth sends Oliver running scared?

Is their whirlwind romance worth the fight?

Fighting for Love is book 2 in the Cut to the Feeling series. It is a gay instalove romantic drama that is better read as part of the series.

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Told in 1st person pov, Fighting for Love drew me right in, as this Noah Steele book is a great addition to his Cut to the Feeling series. Despite being part of the series, it is great as a standalone. 

First of all, I have to say that I absolutely love the name of the coffee shop. Seriously, it's awesome. 


This is a story full of insecurities, intense chemistry, and a sense of danger. The tone is mysterious and ominous, allowing you to really sense the fear, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the danger escalates.
An insta-love story, stay away from this one if you hate this trope. 

Seth's reserved and doesn't reveal much. He's full of fear and sadness. I found myself just wanting to give him a hug. As a couple, Seth and Oliver are so damn sweet together. Intense, sacrificial, determined, and full of love

The title is perfect, as these two have a long road ahead of them, fighting to be together. Their story is one of overcoming issues and finding love. It's about making sacrifices for those you love. Ultimately, it's a sweet, yet intense romance. 

Fighting for Love is great, with a storyline that's riveting and full of emotion. I definitely felt it all; the fear, the need, the want, the apprehension, and the love. A new author, Noah Steele is impressive in his writing style; the storyline, the character development, and the likeable characters all add up to a great story.

RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW - Living On The Inside by Londra Laine

Title: Living on the Inside

Author: Londra Laine

Publisher: Independently Published

Release Date: Tuesday, January 29, 2019

Heat Level: 3 - Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: About 55,000 words

Genre: Romance, Single dad, gay romance, interracial, ex-con, domestic abuse, work romance

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Synopsis

Micah Grayson lives in his baby mama’s guesthouse. It’s unconventional and awkward, but he’s happy for a chance to reconnect with his teenage son. He doesn’t have time for other distractions—no

matter how sexy, independent, and compassionate that distraction might be. Besides, he’s not good enough for more than a fling—no one would ever take him home to meet their parents.

Adrien Darling has book smarts, but no street savvy—at least that’s what his family says. And after a heart-breaking betrayal by the man meant to love and protect him, Adrien believes them. But then a gorgeous guy with a defeated look in his eyes walks into Adrien’s coffee shop and makes him want to take a chance.

After years of living on the outside as two misfits looking in, both men are afraid to reach for more. But in each other’s arms, Micah and Adrien find out what it’s like to live on the inside. As their tender bond grows and blossoms, old insecurities bubble to the surface. Will their commitment crumble under the pressure? Or will the two find the strength to fight for each other.

***Please be aware that this book contains a flashback of and several references to domestic abuse that may be triggering to some readers.***

Review 

My Rating - 5 Stars!

Living On The Inside, by Londra Laine, is a tender tale of learning to love, and live again. 

Mitch and Adrien are two wounded souls who are able to find strength and love in one another. With Adrien, Mitch finds himself feeling again, instead of being numb to the world. 

Both men have complications and baggage. Adrien has been living with the ghost of ex fiancée, who abused him and ruined his spirit. Mitch is living with his ex wife and their child in hopes of getting to know their son. If that wasn't enough, Adrien is Mitch's boss.

I love that Adrien gives Mitch a chance despite his stint in prison. Adrien is supportive and super compassionate. Meanwhile, Adrien's family is nothing but hypocritical. They are downright awful and I found myself wanting to smack some sense into them.

Mitch's relationship with his son is a huge part of this tale. Their relationship is heartbreaking at many times. It's a wonderful evolution and is expertly handled.

The author does an amazing job of demonstrating how tough it can be to overcome one's failures. In addition, she expertly captures the struggle of how to fight for someone when you finally find that special person. 

I love every single second of Living On The Inside. It's a tender story of how easy it is to fall victim to your fears, guilt and insecurities. And it splendidly shows the power love has in the abilities to overcome these feelings. I'm definitely adding it to my re-read list.

Purchase at Amazon

Excerpt

“Is that what we are?” Micah asked quietly. “Friends?”

“Yeah,” Adrien answered. “I hope so.”  

Then he was surrounded by Micah’s body. Adrien hesitated for a moment before returning the other man’s embrace, locking his arms around Micah’s torso. A few seconds into the hug all the reasons why he needed to pull away from Micah—now—raced through his mind. But he couldn’t make himself do it.

Adrien had been fighting his attraction, but the man had slipped past Adrien’s defenses. Micah’s earnest joy at making progress with his son. His trust in Adrien as he shared his insecurities. His nonjudgmental attitude. Their growing friendship. All those things made him feel strong and needed. Adrien wanted more of that feeling. He leaned into Micah.

Micah sighed as he squeezed Adrien tighter, and Adrien’s body sagged against him, the fight against his attraction to Micah leaving his body. He tucked his head into the crook of Micah’s shoulder, and gave in to defeat, breathing in the salty sweet scent of Micah’s skin, running his palms up the man’s back.

The scent and feel of Micah was heady, and Adrien’s head swam as he let his eyelids flutter shut, let his lips graze the exposed skin between Micah’s neck and shoulder. Micah tensed against him and his breath hitched, making Adrien wonder if he’d gone too far. But then Micah’s palm slid up Adrien’s neck, cupping his nape, grazing a thumb along his hairline.

Micah moved his other hand lower, resting it right above Adrien’s ass, his fingers lightly grazing the swell below Adrien’s hips.

“Adrien,” Micah grated out. Adrien pulled back, slowly opening his eyes. Micah licked his lips, his eyes skimming Adrien’s mouth, and then he leaned forward.

Adrien met him halfway, their lips connecting in a kiss. The light brush became a firm press then flared, hot and wet, as Adrien ran the tip of his tongue against the seam of Micah’s lips. Micah submitted to Adrien’s silent request, parting his lips to give Adrien access to his tongue and mouth.

Then a loud honk made them jerk apart as a car sped past them, headlights bright and blinding. Their chests heaved, and Adrien took in Micah’s disheveled hair and damp lips and wondered if he looked nearly as enticing to Micah.

Adrien’s gaze skittered away, and he grimaced, embarrassment replacing the intense need he’d felt moments ago. What was he doing? He knew better than this. He’d been down this road before. He couldn’t get involved with an employee again.

Then a terrible thought occurred to him. What if Micah felt like he had to hook up with Adrien? Had Adrien pressured him in some way? Shit. Negative thoughts tumbled through his mind, making him dizzy. He had to nip this in the bud.

“Micah, about what just happened—”

“Our kiss?” Micah moved closer to him.

Adrien’s eyes wandered, unable to meet Micah’s. “Yeah, the kiss. I’m sorry—I didn’t mean to—I’m sorry.” He shook his head and Micah stopped the motion by gripping Adrien’s chin between his forefinger and thumb. He lifted Adrien’s face to his.

“I’m not sorry.” Micah’s voice was quiet in the night.   

Meet the Author

Londra has loved reading since she figured out how to do it. She writes to give her guys the happy ending she wishes everyone––no matter their race, religion, gender, or orientation––could experience in real life.

Londra makes money as a communications manager. She is a former journalist, a runner and a mezzo soprano.

In 2010, she moved from her native California to New York City where she lived in Harlem for nearly eight years. In early 2018 she relocated to Seattle with her spouse.

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