By
Rhonda Lee Carver

A fake marriage will set a Texas holiday on fire…

Sadie Locke has always been great at giving her friends relationship advice, but when it comes to her own love life not so much. She and Channing decide a friends-with-benefits relationship will work perfectly…

Until, they get married—fake married—so that she can protect a secret she’s kept for fifteen years.

Channing Dawson has life just the way he likes it. His business is thriving. And he and Sadie have a no-strings “friendlationship”. What more could a man want?

Then she goes and pulls a fast one by making him her husband. Pretend or not, the rules change. He isn’t sure about having a holiday bride, until he realizes he doesn’t have a cold heart after all. He could get used to sharing Christmas with Sadie, but does she feel the same? Her secrets, and she has plenty, might ruin any chance they have for a future.

Sadie and Channing have long had a friend with benefits relationship. Neither one really wants it to go further than that although they both have so much in common aside from the physical.

Sadie has been trying to adopt her cousin’s daughter Ruby. Her cousin Dorothy has agreed to this however she keeps putting stipulations on the adoption. It’s a text from Dorothy that ruins her good mood after waking up in Channing’s arms that morning. She can’t help but wonder what’s next.

Although Dorothy hints at yet another stipulation, she refuses to elaborate. Instead, she says she’ll talk to the lawyer involved.

While Sadie is dealing with Dorothy, Channing hits the diner for a breakfast he shouldn’t have. Having been diagnosed with a heart condition the year before his family has been all about healthier eating habits. He spends some time with his friend Keef but his demeanor changes when Sadie walks in with a man he doesn’t recognize. It was truly interesting when he follows Sadie to the rest room.

It’s a couple of days later when Sadie has Ruby at the park that she finds out what Dorothy’s latest demand is. Her attorney Leah shows up to tell her since she didn’t want to tell this over the phone. This latest is by far the most difficult, it seems Dorothy will sign the adoption papers once Sadie is married.

Dorothy is an addict and although she’s been doing better, her daughter Ruby needs far more stability in her life. Sadie is willing to do anything for Ruby, even get married. The question is who will she marry? There’s only one answer in her mind.

This is a favorite scene.

Sadie knew in her heart she’d be willing to do anything, marry anyone…

Her cell phone buzzed, and she read the screen. Channing had sent her a message.

“Are we seeing each other tonight?”

She started to put away her phone when a thought came to her, then she tapped into the keyboard… “Are you at the ranch? I have a friend who loves horses. Can we drop by?”

A minute later, he answered, “Sure.”

Sadie didn’t have time to think over her actions, but at that moment she had an idea.  

Channing was almost asleep in the hammock hung from the branches of an old shade tree, his hat pulled low over his eyes, when he heard tires crunch on the gravel. He pushed up the rim of the Stetson and slitted one eye. Sadie. He’d been taken by surprise when she asked if she could stop by the ranch with a friend.

Slowly standing, he stretched his arms high above his head and watched her slide out of the driver’s side. She looked good enough to eat. The low neckline of the tank showed off the tops of her breasts that jiggled with each step. He felt a stirring behind his zipper that disappeared the instant he saw her company. A pint-sized girl with pigtails and a smile that revealed missing teeth.

“Hey there, Channing,” Sadie said as she approached.

The girl stopped short when she saw him, and her smile faded some. He didn’t know a lot of kids, but most liked him.

“So, who do we have here?” He adjusted his hat higher on his forehead.

“This is my friend, Ruby, who loves horses.”

The old Blue Heelers jumped up from their resting spots in the grass and sauntered their way to the girl. Her smile quickly returned.

“Hello, Ruby.” Channing hadn’t seen the dogs this energetic in over a year.

She shyly looked up at him and continued petting both dogs, one for each hand. “I like your dogs.”

“It appears Jimmy Shu and Jinx like you too.”

“Ruby, this is my friend, Channing. He owns many horses,” Sadie said.

“Are you a cowboy?” Ruby’s voice was so soft he had to strain to hear it.

“Most days.”

“I like your hat.” Ruby stood and wiped her hands on her jeans. That’s when he saw the prominent scar on her cheek, but he made sure he didn’t stare. “Can I ride a horse?”

“Well, we have one rule ‘round here. If you are going to get on the back of one of the horses, you must be first inducted into the cowboys of the round table.” The little girl just stared. He slipped off his hat and dropped it on her tiny head, but the pigtails kept it from slipping over her face. “Looks like my hat’s a bit too big, but it’ll do for a moment.”

“How do I get to be at the table?” Her eyes were wide and twinkling. Her mouth was thin.

“It’s not an actual table, but more like an idea, or promise, that you’ll always uphold the code of honor of cowboys and cowgirls all over the land. You must swear to be kind and helpful to every horse you meet because they’ll be loyal to you.”

“Can I swear, Sadie? Can I be a cowgirl?” She practically jumped out of her untied tennis shoes.

“You can be anything you want to be.” Sadie gave her a hug.

“I’m allowed,” Ruby squealed, all signs of the shy girl gone.

“First, we need to fix these. Can you tie your own shoes?” The girl gave a sharp shake of her head. “Watch closely.” He knelt and tied her frayed shoestrings. He stayed on his knees, at her eye level. “Now, place your right hand over your heart and repeat after me. I, Ruby, promise to be kind and helpful to all horses forever and a day.”

She repeated the vow, focusing hard on each word.

“Let’s bump fists on that.” Her fist was so tiny compared to his. “And now I bequeath you an honorary cowgirl.” He took his hat back, pressed it down on his head and stood.

“Can I ride now? Can I?” Ruby squirmed.

Channing looked over at Sadie who had a mysterious moisture in her eyes. “Is that okay? Can I put her on a horse?”

“If you have the time.” There was a breathlessness to her tone.

“I have all the time in the world for an honorary member. Come on, Ruby. Let’s go saddle up a horse.” He took a step toward the barn, and she slipped her hand into his. He felt a hitch in his chest. Obviously, the child had been through something that no kid should ever experience. Not only did she have the visible wound on her face, but she walked with a limp too.

Inside the barn, he asked one of the hands to saddle Nellie, the oldest, tamest horse on the ranch. Channing wasn’t sure if Ruby would be scared at first and Nellie was always aware of who was on her back.

When the horse was brought around, Channing scratched her behind the ears. “Ruby, meet Nellie. She’s been here at Dawson Creek for almost twenty years.”

“Can I pet her?” Ruby asked reverently.

“Sure.”

Hearing a noise behind them, he looked at Sadie and she mouthed, “Thank you.”

After an hour of leading Nellie around with a smiling Ruby in the saddle, he led them into the corral, then helped the girl down.

“Did we have to stop?” Ruby whined.

“For now, yes.” Channing handed the horse off to the waiting stable hand.

As if she let the idea go completely, she raced out of the enclosure and ran to the dogs sprawled out under the shade tree. Channing joined Sadie where she sat on the bench swing, using her toes to rock back and forth.

“I can’t thank you enough,” she said once he sat down.

He hooked his hat on his bent knee. “Something tells me that little girl has been through hell and back.”

“A car accident a little over six months ago.” There was a pause long enough for Sadie to wave at Ruby. “Her mother was driving and a truck T-boned them. Everyone survived, barely.”

Shifting so he could look at Sadie’s profile, he sensed an underlying tension in her. He scratched the whiskers on his jaw. “She’s welcome anytime. She’s a natural in the saddle.”

A silence fell over them until Sadie finally said, “I have something I want to speak to you about. Actually, ask you. It’s a big favor.”

“I already told you I’d help with the committee.”

“I need a husband, Chan, and I need one fast.”
Rhonda Lee Carver. All Cowboy and a Holiday Bride (Kindle Locations 559-614).

Channing is more than a little stunned with Sadie’s declaration of needing a husband fast. He needs a bit of time to think, this is more than a huge favor.

Channing is also going to change the rules on Sadie. This is where things not only become fun they also get complicated.

Holiday fun, heartrending truths and plenty of romance and sizzle!

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

He put her in danger
and now he’s the only one who can save her.

Delta 6 is an elite team comprised of retired SEALs, the best-of-the-best, who have faced incredible conflicts and missions. Their motto is “Get in and get out, using all necessary force, and leave no man behind.” Working with Homeland Security, their team is the one called upon to do the impossible reconnaissance missions—and now they’re facing six big ones. Assigned to catch the six most wanted terrorists on friendly soil, each tough soldier will face brutal circumstances to bring the enemy to justice. And they’re willing to pay any price…

Enemies don’t always wear black and carry guns. Sometimes they’re beautiful doctors with raven hair and engaging blue eyes. Cason Driggs has been investigating elusive terrorist, Ghost, for six months and the first real clue he finds is a partial print that belongs to Dr. Yara Yates, an epidemiologist who is skilled in monitoring infectious diseases and bioterrorism threats. Cason decides the best way to draw a terrorist out of his hole is to dangle a juicy carrot underneath his nose. Kidnapping the lovely doctor, he plans to use her as bait, but something changes that Cason isn’t prepared for.

Yara believes the man who kidnapped her must be one of Ghost’s thugs who plans to kill her after she sent an unexpected clue to authorities. More than fearing for her own life, she must protect her family. And her heart.

A hunting cabin. A stray dog. A snake. And a bullet all lead up to a wild goose chase.

Cason is an alpha and Yara is a focused scientist. They couldn’t be more different. How will the two work together to bring down a terrorist? How will they deny, or tame, the fire that is threatening to consume them?

Cason Driggs made a decision to do something a bit out of character. He kidnaps a Dr. Yara Yates, an epidemiologist he knows is key to capturing the terrorist known as Ghost. His investigating found she’s connected with Ghost, he’s just not sure in what capacity. His goal here is to find out and put an end to Ghost’s terrorism. The problem is he’s failed to inform his team what he’s doing and why.

Yara is sure the man who’s taken her works for Ghost. She’d almost run out of time to find what Ghost wants from her, and in her concern for her family she’s sent a clue to her only outlet, The Daily Journal, a newspaper she has connection with. It’s this clue that Cason has misinterpreted.

The drive to where he plans to lure Ghost out is treacherous since the weather took a turn he didn’t expect. It was only made worse by his own errors in judgement as Yara fights back and they crash. With her unconscious he has to carry her the rest of the way to the cabin he’s prepared.

Cason doesn’t explain things to her or even question her, which doesn’t alleviate her fears in the least.

This is part of that first real conversation and a favorite scene.

“I’m going to make us a cup of coffee and I have a can of soup prepared. Can I trust you to stay put?” He raised a thick brow.

“Do you have more booby traps I need to be aware of?”

“All over the place. Consider them not only valuable in keeping you in, but also keeping others out.”

He walked over to the pan warming over the fire and she watched him pour the contents into two Styrofoam cups.

“Does this place have electric?” She traveled her attention over the rustic furnishings and oil lamps. Sitting more comfortably on the couch, she pulled her damp, clingy shirt away from her body, wishing she could take it off.

“I have two generators if we need them. I’m saving the gas for an emergency though.”

“Isn’t all this an emergency?” she asked.

He ignored her. Lifting the towel to her nose, she expected it to be musky, but instead she caught the faint scent of soap and sandalwood. She dried her hair and face, and when he brought one of the steaming cups over to her, she laid the towel aside.

“It’s not gourmet, but it’ll fill your belly.” He sat down in the overstuffed chair and stretched his legs.

Looking down into the cup, her mouth salivated, but she didn’t think she could eat.

The beast had no problem digging in.

Setting her cup on the table, she brought her knees up to her chest and hugged her legs. “I think we both have some questions.”

He settled his gaze on her above the rim of the cup. “No need to be in any hurry. Eat.”

“No. I want answers as much as you do.”

When he placed the cup next to hers, he scooted himself to the edge of the cushion and braced his elbows on his knees. “Has anyone ever told you that you’re a pest?” A grittiness framed his words.

“Only those people who I don’t like.”

“The feeling’s mutual,” he groaned.

She went on without missing a beat. “The note…I sent it to the newspaper, yet you were the one who received it?”

“Not initially. It finally landed in my lap.”

“Are you a policeman? FBI?”

He eased back into the chair and crossed his arms over the broad expanse of his chest. “What I can tell you is that I’ve been tracking Ghost on and off for years and the first real solid clue was that note and partial print.”

She lowered her gaze to her clasped hands. “So you’re with the FBI then?”

“Let’s move the focus away from who I am to more importantly why you wrote the note and left your print when Ghost had been meticulous up until that point.” That tight set of his jaw returned.

Yara struggled to keep equal footing with him. “What do you know about me?”

“Enough. You grew up in California and attended a private school. You weren’t popular and didn’t play sports. However, you excelled in dance but you mysteriously stopped. After, you attended Stanford where you blossomed. A member of a dozen or more clubs, you graduated with high honors. You’re an epidemiologist who has won awards for her work in biochemical and disease control. Your father died last year from cancer. Your mother is a schoolteacher, and after a divorce from your father when you were ten, she remarried the principal of the middle school where she taught. Six months ago, you and a colleague were recognized for using genome sequencing of isolates to identify an outbreak of a new virus in a tiny, remote village in Africa.”

“Wow. You’ve really done your research.” She leaned forward, feeling a bit vulnerable that he knew so much about her and she knew so little about him.

“I also know you have to be one smart woman to be in the field that you are in, so why in the hell did you get involved with Ghost? I guess I should say how do you know the bastard who has a fascination for blowing up things and people?” His narrowed eyes drilled through her.

“You don’t know everything about me although you verbally vomited a handful of facts.” She looked at him through the veil of her lashes.

He shrugged, stretching the cotton of the shirt to capacity. “I know that there’s a picture of you and Ghost in your apartment. Hell, I could be wrong but that’s pretty damn condemning in my book.”

It took her a moment to absorb what he was suggesting. “You’re wrong.”

“Who is he to you? Lover?”

“The man you’re referring to is—was—my brother. He’s not Ghost.  Wait…you were in my apartment?” Her blood boiled.

He smirked. “I had to investigate.”

Why did she understand? She’d want to investigate too. Yet, she should be angry because he invaded her space. “You’re grasping at straws.”

“Obviously, you don’t—didn’t—know him very well. Why are we using past tense references?”

She moistened her lips. “My brother, Thomas, died in a boating accident two years ago. So, you see, it’s impossible that he could be Ghost.”

Yara could see the confusion in the beast’s expression. “That’s not possible.”

“It is possible.” she sighed. “My family and I buried him, and we have his death certificate.”

“And you saw his body?”

She shifted uneasily on the cushion. “No…his body wasn’t found.”

“Then there’s a chance he could be alive.”

“Listen, there were clues that he died. His death was investigated and ruled an accidental drowning.”

Her captor snorted. “You know how easy it is to fake a death? Have you seen Ghost? His face? Met him for yourself?”

Her chest tightened. “No, I haven’t. Not face-to-face. I only had interactions with his men.”

“Isn’t that just fitting.” He shrugged and dropped back into the chair. “But you know where he is?”

“No.”

“You must.”

“Don’t interrogate me. I told you no and I mean it.” She didn’t like where this was headed. “I’m not in cahoots with Ghost…at least not how you think.” She plucked at a loose string on her shirt.

“Then explain.”
Rhonda Lee Carver. Bite the Bullet (Kindle Locations 841-901). Kindle Edition.

As Yara explains to him exactly how she became involved with Ghost, Cason realizes he’s misjudged her but also knows she’s still key to capturing Ghost.

I was relieved when Cason and Yara finally begin trusting each other and the addition of a stray dog adds an unusual aspect to this strange relationship.

This story gets more and more convoluted with clues and people working with Ghost. It was truly satisfying to see his team show up reminding him he doesn’t have be alone in this fight. Things heat up in more ways than one as Yara and Cason work together to find the elusive Ghost.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

To really move forward,
sometimes it takes going back to the very beginning.

Trying to escape a bad relationship, and desperate to find a safe place for her daughter, Megan Nash returns to Cooper’s Hawk. Down-on-her-luck, she has no other choice but to ask her estranged father-in-law for help. He still blames her for the accident that killed his son, but learning that he has a granddaughter, he offers them a roof over their heads…just until Megan can get back on her feet. Yet, being civil isn’t part of the bargain.

Her patience will be tested.

Ely Dutton has physically healed from a mortar blast that left him injured and scarred, but he’s still on the mend mentally. Realizing hiding away in an isolated cabin on a mountain isn’t helping, he decided to go back to his childhood home. He accepts the position as Sheriff, because a man has to live. He likes things simple, so when an old connection is sparked with Megan, he attempts to ignore his attraction.

A relationship,
especially with a single mother,
isn’t part of his five-year plan.

Further complicating what should have been an easy job as Sheriff, he must shed light on a mysterious death that is connected to Megan. As new clues are exposed, so are the secret layers of her past.
In a quest to navigate their new lives and old demons, Megan and Ely will learn to trust, love with all their hearts, and let go of hurtful ties.

Ely had isolated himself with his dog Finn after retiring from the military. He finally feels ready to move forward with his life, accepting the position of Sheriff, Ely Dutton has returned home to Cooper’s Hawk. Things weren’t quite the way they were since his father had sold the family ranch and moved away. His sister Penny is still there and that’s where he’s staying until the place he’s renting is ready for occupancy.

Megan Nash had to leave Texas, opening her heart only betrayed her. Now she’s doing what’s best for her daughter, even though it means facing her father-in-law. Returning to Cooper’s Hawk is hard, many blamed her for her husband’s death including his father. She can only hope the man will let them stay so she can get her life together. Noah doesn’t make it easy but finally allows her to stay in the furthest guest cottage from the main house. The work he lays out for her is more than she expected but she wouldn’t shy away from it.

Megan and Ely’s first encounter is less than friendly as he’s distracted and spills coffee all over her shirt. He almost looses his patience with her too, but manages to stay civil.

Little did they know that wouldn’t be the only time they see each other that day. Megan has an envelope to deliver to the Sheriff, who is attempting to make coffee when she enters his office.

This is a favorite scene.

Ignoring the fluttering of butterflies in her belly, she clutched the envelope so tight in her grip that she heard paper crumpling.

“Hi again,” he said so casually, as if they hadn’t exchanged heated words less than twenty minutes ago.

“You’re not Sheriff Conley.” She didn’t bother hiding the hint of annoyance in her tone.

“No, I’m not. Is that who you’re looking for?”

“I think so. Is he around?” Why was Ely Dutton hanging out in the Sheriff’s office?

He planted his wide hands on his slender hips, his gaze narrowing. “If you’re looking for Conley, I’m afraid you’re too late. He’s already gone.”

“Gone?”

“Gone as in took a job as a Ranger. I took over his job.”

Things started making sense. “You’re the Sheriff?”

He grinned and stepped over to his desk, picked up a shiny badge and hooked it on his belt. “I need to stop forgetting to put this on. The name hasn’t been changed on the door yet.” He didn’t seem the least bit disgruntled about it either. “I was a bit occupied when you walked in.”

“Looks like you were having some difficulty.”

“What happened to simple coffee makers with one power switch?” he groaned. “Anyway, how can I help you?”

“I guess I’m here to see you. Noah asked me to give you this envelope.” She crossed the rug and laid it on the desk, noticing how wrinkled it was now.

“Great.” He ripped opened the flap, turned the envelope upside down and emptied the contents. A key and a piece of paper fell out. “Finally. The cabin’s ready.”

Sheesh. Not only did she have to face him again, but she’d be seeing him every day since they’d be living less than two hundred feet apart from each other. Back in her teens she would have done flips at the idea of living this close to her crush. She wasn’t a teen any longer though and she’d promised herself to stay far away from men like Ely Dutton with their charming smiles and killer bodies.

Clearing the air might make things easier. “About what happened on the street—”

“You don’t have to apologize.” That lopsided grin deepened. “We all have bad days and near breakdowns.”

“Excuse me?” She blinked, some of the irritation returning. “I didn’t plan on apologizing.”

“Oh? I guess I just assumed.” He shrugged, stretching the fabric to its capacity.

Her bad day suddenly turned into hell. “Look, Sheriff Dutton, we’ve established that your ego is still as insanely big as ever, but I have no desire to deal with the likes of you today.”

“You—wait, how do you know my name? Do we know each other?”

Megan laughed. Of course, he wouldn’t remember her. “I’m Megan Nash—err, it used to be Hart.”

“Megan? Little Megan?” His eyes widened slightly. “I haven’t seen you, wow…how long has it been?”

“Long enough that I prefer not to be called little,” she muttered.

“Damn, you don’t wear glasses any longer, or braces. You said Nash. You and Bray? Really? You two married?”

“Penny didn’t mention it?”

“She doesn’t tell me anything.”

“Yes, Bray and I married.”

“I’m sorry about the accident.”

“Apparently Penny does tell you some things.”

“I felt like an ass not making the funeral.”

“It’s okay. Bray wouldn’t hold it against you.”

“Damn.”

She wanted to leave. “I’d better go, you’re probably busy doing Sheriff stuff.” She backed up.

He dropped the envelope on his desk and hooked his thumbs in his front pockets. “You look different, Meg.”

“You do too, Sheriff.” But better than ever.

“Call me Ely.” The signature Ely Dutton grin parted his lips and her knees wobbled.

She refused to get sucked into his allure again. Nope. Hell no. No way. She’d been so crazy over him that she’d lost sleep.

A familiar tightness developed in her throat. “Sure, Ely. We’re adults now. We’ve changed.” And I will no longer follow you around like a lovesick puppy. Humiliation washed over her. Had she really hung a picture of him on her closet wall at sixteen? She’d torn the photo of him receiving some sports award out of the school paper, where she’d been a writer, and taped it up where she could look at it every day.

“That’s the truth.” Something flickered over his expression. He pushed his fingers through his hair and waves came alive.

“How is Penny?” Penny had been Megan’s best friend all through school. She didn’t have one single memory that didn’t include them hanging out together.

“Same as ever. I’ve been staying with her since I got back to Cooper’s Hawk. She’ll be glad to get me out of her house, even if she says she isn’t.” He picked up the key and pushed it into his front pocket. “You living out at the farm too?”

“Yes. For now. I’m helping Noah out.”

He nodded. “Looks like we’ll be neighbors. Don’t worry. Coffee is strictly in cups only.” His teasing smile lit his eyes.

She needed to get going and fast. “I should go.”

“Okay. I guess I’ll see you later then.”

She took a detour to the coffee maker, pressed a button and the machine whirred to life.

“How’d you do that?” He seemed genuinely shocked.

“It’s very simple. Press the blue button one, two, or three times depending on the strength you want your coffee then hit the red button to start.”

“Damn. I never would have figured that out.”

His laughter lifted the soft hairs on her nape.

“I need to get back to the farm.” How many times would she threaten the act before she finally left? She finally made it to the door, hand on the knob.

“I’ll see you around. Thanks for dropping off the key.”

“Bye then.”

She hurried from the office and closed the door behind her. In such a hurry to get to the exit, she didn’t see the man standing in her path until she almost bulldozed him over. She lifted her chin and made an attempt to apologize, but her words stuck on her tongue. The man was the same one she saw in the alley with the angry woman. “Sorry,” she finally found her voice.

“Deputy Richards, you remember Megan?” Lorraine asked.

“It was Hart. Megan Hart,” Megan said. Sam had been quiet as a kid. Probably because he’d been in Ely’s shadow, who’d been a star player in every sport. Sam had been up and coming in baseball until he’d injured himself and couldn’t play his senior year. Megan knew this because she’d written the story in the school paper.

“Sure. It’s nice to see you again, ma’am.” His smile slipped some and he walked around her toward Ely’s closed door.

“Did you get your business taken care of?” Loraine asked.

Megan nodded. “Yes. I did.”

“Tell Noah I said ‘hello’.” Did she blush?

Once outside, Megan filled her lungs with a deep breath. So…Ely Dutton was sheriff? And the new tenant?

Holy cow.

Getting in her car, she drove out of town toward Nash Farm. She hadn’t accomplished much that morning outside of learning that her old crush could still make her feel like she couldn’t quite get her sea legs.
Rhonda Lee Carver. Cowboy Ely (Kindle Locations 930-1006). Kindle Edition.

Things are far more complicated than they appear, as this story unfolds. Ely doesn’t realize he wants a relationship and Megan only wants what’s best for her daughter.

As threats come in choices are made and surprises happen. I didn’t see that coming.

Fun and entertaining with some action and some sizzle!

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

What happens at a fertility clinic stays at a fertility clinic…
unless there’s an accidental switch-a-roo…

Successful author Melanie Jane decided after a very public divorce that she would prove to the world, especially her critiques, that she didn’t need a man to make her dreams come true. So, she wrote a best seller and used a fertility clinic to get pregnant. An accidental switch-a-roo left Melanie curious…who was the father of her baby?

Coop Dawson was still grieving the loss of his twin brother when some lady showed up at the family ranch and announced that she was pregnant by Cade, impossible since he’d been gone for over a year. Coop didn’t have the patience for scam artists. He told her exactly how he felt then made her hit the road. Yet, after reading a letter from a fertility clinic, he realized she’d been telling the truth. Now he needed to turn things around fast before he lost the chance at knowing Cade’s child.

Sometimes tragedy can bring a family closer…and bring unexpected gifts.

Coop needed to step up for the first time in his life and do the right thing for everyone. He promised his brother in a late-night prayer that he’d take care of the child—but what Coop didn’t realize he was already falling for Melanie and he couldn’t imagine life without her. Will she learn to trust him? Or will he screw up every chance he’d been given?

Melanie Jane wanted a child, she went through the process, picked a donor, and now she’s pregnant. Only the fertility clinic made a mistake, the donor she picked isn’t what she got. Now she’s conflicted not about the pregnancy but how to find out who the donor was. She should know of any possible issues, right. Her friend and editor Steven manages to get the information, but she decides she doesn’t need to know, until she does. A jigsaw puzzle of the information reveals what she wanted to know, including a phone number. When she calls the response is it’s the wrong number, so that’s the end of that right?

Coop Dawson and his family while still reeling from Cade’s death a year ago, are planning a Rodeo in his honor with proceeds going to a charity for kids with leukemia.
He first meets Melanie as she’s waiting for take-out at Corby Q’s. He didn’t get much of a conversation in though, that is until she shows up at his family ranch. The conversation there wasn’t exactly pleasant, with Coop denying that Cade ever donated sperm to a fertility clinic. Unfortunately, he finds out otherwise and owes Melanie an apology which he delivers with an offer to show her around and an invite to dinner.

This is a favorite scene.

The brothers’ friendly joshing had turned into full blown arguing from the other room that spilled into the kitchen.

“Let’s get Melanie’s opinion. She’ll be unbiased,” Channing said.

“She doesn’t care.” Wales met her gaze.

Wiping her hands off on a towel, she stepped around the counter. “First tell me what the argument is about.”

“Would you rather meet Garth Brooks or Blake Shelton?”

“Garth, right?” Channing said.

“Nah, Blake,” Carter crooned.

“Well, I’ve met both. Although not many, there were a few perks to being married to Beau Banks.”

Wales and Channing stared in disbelief, then he said, “You were married to the greatest race car driver of all time?”

“Can we get an autograph?” Carter asked.

“He was a jerk,” Coop piped in.

“Sorry,” Wales and Carter said in unison, looking defeated.

“No, it’s okay. He was a jerk during our marriage and the divorce proceedings sucked, but I learned to let go. We’ll never be friends, but we can get along. I can do you one better than an autograph.” She went to her purse on the table and dug out her phone. She found Beau’s number and clicked ‘talk’. On the second ring he picked up. “It’s Melanie. Yes, I’m good. How is Camilla and the baby? Good. I have some of your biggest fans here with me. They’d like to ask some questions. Have a minute to spare?” She stuck out the phone. “He’s all yours, at least for a few minutes.”

Carter swiped up the phone, put it on speaker, and said, “Hello, sir. It’s an honor.” The brothers moved into the living room as they bombarded Beau with questions.

Coop stayed close by. “That’s very kind of you.”

She shrugged. “There’s nothing more that Beau loves than to be in the spotlight. Honestly though, he owes me at least a hundred more favors that I plan to call in eventually.”

Something changed in his expression. His eyes warmed and his jaw relaxed. Whatever was going on inside of him she felt it too as an invisible rope of satin wrapped her heart. An energy engulfed them, and she leaned in…

“Melanie?”

Jerking back, she blinked. “Yes.” Forcing her feet to move, she swiveled to face Candy who gave Melanie a knowing smile.

“How long will you be staying in town?”

Clearing her throat, Melanie pushed back the charge of electricity in her body. “I thought I’d be gone by now, but I don’t have any definite plans.” As if a magnet pulled her gaze to Coop, she swallowed against a sudden constriction. What was happening between them?

“Coop, why don’t you run and get Franny Maw.”

“Okay.” He offered Melanie a tender smile then exited through the back door.

“You should try this,” Candy said as she cut into the fresh out of the oven steaming pan of homemade lasagna. “It’s a secret recipe handed down in the family.”

It certainly did smell amazing. Melanie’s stomach growled in hunger.

Accepting the loaded fork of pasta, she took the entire bite and her eyes widened. The flavors were a combination made in heaven. The sausage. The sweet and tanginess of the sauce. The variety of cheeses all came together to make it delightful. “That’s the best lasagna I’ve ever tasted,” she admitted.

Candy blushed. “Thank you. Feeding a family this size was never easy although they’ll eat anything I put in front of them.” Something akin to worry creased the area around her eyes. “He has a good heart you know.”

Seconds passed as Melanie absorbed the words, realizing exactly what Candy meant. “I didn’t come here to cause problems.”

With a gentle shrug, Candy said, “What I’m thinking isn’t negative. I haven’t seen him like this since Cade passed. He’s more like himself right now and I’m guessing it has something to do with you.” She turned and cupped Melanie’s hands. “Listen, I know a good-hearted woman when I see her. I won’t pressure you, but I’d like to meet the child one day. You didn’t come here for that reason, but we’re a good family. Cade was a fine man. That’s all I needed to say.” She removed her hands and went back to concentrating on finishing the meal.

Feeling the sadness of the other woman, Melanie didn’t know what she could say to bring peace for Candy. After all, Melanie couldn’t imagine losing a child. The heart ache that would follow. She wanted to tell Candy that she could see the baby, but this crossed a line. Why? They were good people. Didn’t every child need a village? The support of family? This entire situation was uncharted for them all. Could she see herself visiting the ranch? Bringing Cade’s child here for visits?

Coop filled her mind. Could it be possible that this attraction between them could grow?

It was too early to know for sure, but she’d never felt so confident about anything before.

“So why didn’t Franny Maw come?” Candy asked later as they filled the chairs around the table.

“She had a date with some friends to play cards,” Coop said.

Platters were passed around and Melanie was surrounded by the brothers who went on and on about their conversation with Beau.

“Have some manners. I’m sure Melanie doesn’t want to hear another word about her ex,” Coop said in a groan.

“Does it bother you?” Channing asked.

“No. Not at all.” She met Coop’s gaze.

He reached around her to grab a piece of French bread from the basket and in the process his arm brushed hers, sending an awakening of goosebumps scattering across her skin. All those secret sensations and emotions were set free and things were taking on a new intensity between them.

She was afraid to look his direction for fear he’d see straight through her.
Carver, Rhonda Lee. All Cowboy and Charm (The Brothers of Dove Grey Series Book 1) (Kindle Locations 1303-1360). Kindle Edition.

While these circumstances are very unusual, the attraction between Cade and Melanie grows exponentially.

A fun read with laughter, tears and sizzle!

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
USA Today Bestselling Author
Rhonda Lee Carver

Strength had always been her greatest asset,
until August West took her life by lasso…

Over her dead body would she allow her grandmother to give the family farm to a cocky cowboy. So, Tobi Saint dropped everything and headed to Cooper’s Hawk, a place she swore she wouldn’t step foot in again, but the vague call she received concerned her.

August West had lived a lot of places in his lifetime, but none had felt more like home than Cooper’s Hawk. He was back and liked working on River Saint Farm. The owner, Isobella, had taken him under her wing and treated him like her own. As her health started to decline, she asked for his help in convincing Tobi to take over the farm. He wanted no part of the scheme. His memory of Tobi involved a kiss behind the barn a second before she punched him in the nose.

Yet, how could he deny helping Isobella?

The old chemistry remained between August and Tobi. Things start to heat up and a fiery kiss between old friends leads to a moment that changes everything.

He found himself unraveling. For the first time he saw a chance at a future. A chance at love. But there was more to Tobi than met the eye. She’d been hurt by everyone she loved and to find his way into her heart he’d have to shovel through a brick wall.

The deeper he dug the harder it became, but love was worth fighting for…

Tobi is who we meet first as she’s working with her friend and partner Ellen on a new formula for their skin care line. A phone call from her grandmother Isobella with hints of selling her ranch River Saint, has Tobi rethinking her priorities. She’s been in a rut and has some serious trust issues. The thought that perhaps spending time at River Saint could help her clear her mind has her booking flights.

When we meet August, he’s with Search and Rescue and the woman involved isn’t hurt so much as wanting the rescuer. This appears to happen frequently with the Search and Rescue teams. He’s also the new ranch manager for Isobella. When he arrived he found the ranch near bankruptcy, now it’s slowly getting back on track. He’s been doing a lot of repairs on the house himself and he’s working on the hot water heater when Tobi arrives.

Tobi had a conversation with the ‘retired’ ranch manager and he didn’t have anything good to say about August. She also didn’t expect to find a man in her grandmother’s basement at night and is holding him at gunpoint when Isobella gets home.

This is a favorite scene.

“What in tarnation is going on here?” Isobella’s high-pitched voice echoed from the doorway. “Why are you holding August at gunpoint?”

The cowboy didn’t take his sparkling gaze off her. “She seems to think I’m an intruder,” he said in a lazy tone.

Gram’s laughter rattled Tobi. “Let’s put the shotgun away. Shall we, child? And have a more…peaceful introduction.” Gram swooped in, carefully took the weapon from Tobi’s hands then snickered. “It’s not even loaded, honey.”

August chuckled, scraping Tobi’s nerves even more. “What is he doing down here rummaging around?”

“I wasn’t ‘rummaging’. I was fixing the hot water tank, like I told you already,” he said, his voice a touch icier than before.

“Both of you come upstairs. I baked a pumpkin pie earlier.” Tobi took a long look at Gram. She looked tired, older, and thinner. Her hair, usually styled into a neat bob, was now shorter than August’s.

“Are you staring at me because of the hair?” Gram chuckled. “What do you think? I had my stylist do something different.”

Tobi couldn’t get her tongue to work, a tad shocked at her grandmother’s physical changes.

“I think it’s fabulous,” August said. “Right, Tobi?”

“Thank you, son. Daphne promised it’s wash and wear. Who has time to worry about hair?” Gram winked.

Feeling a bit like she’d woke up in the twilight zone, Tobi gave her head a quick shake. “Yes, I like it. I was just taken back.”

“And you, dear, look more and more like your father.” Gram rested her palm against her still-large bosom.

At the mention of the man Tobi had never met she felt the familiar sting in the pit of her stomach. What she knew about her father could fit into a tea cup. Loretta never spoke of him, didn’t even have any pictures. From what Tobi knew, Tobias had inky, dark hair, captivating green eyes and had a scar across one cheek from a fall off a horse when he was eleven. Gathering her emotions, Tobi didn’t like that August was watching her closely. Was he hoping to see a slip of her composure? Well, he wouldn’t. “I tried to call to let you know I was coming but I didn’t get an answer.”

Gram’s thin chin bobbed as she observed Tobi with a narrowed gaze. “You didn’t have to come, but now that you’re here, let’s go have some of that pie.” She had weary, pale features, and her clothes hung on her diminutive frame.

“I’d love a piece of pie,” August said, hooking his thumbs in his front pockets, still wearing a smile that should come with a warning label.

“Tobi? What about you?” Gram asked.

“Sure. Let’s have pie.” She swiped a glace back at the cowboy who didn’t seem a bit embarrassed that she’d caught him staring at her behind. And why did her body respond like she’d run a marathon?

“I’ll gather my things here and be right up,” August said.

“And maybe you can find a shirt too,” Tobi said under her breath.

“Nonsense, August. That can wait. Come to the kitchen.” Gram took the lead up the narrow stairs, stopping at the gun case. “Remember what I told you, Tobi. You always check to make sure a gun is unloaded…or loaded.”

She felt a bit foolish, but she pushed it aside.

The old kitchen hadn’t changed one bit. From the apple wallpaper trim along the yellow walls to the antique stove. The handmade cabinets to the butcher block island where she’d sit and watch Gram bake pies and make goat cheese that she’d sell at the farmer’s market on Saturdays.

“Are you okay, Tobi?”

She offered Gram a forced smile. “I’m fine. This place, especially the kitchen, brings back a lot of memories I’d forgotten.”

“Come in. Have a seat. Both of you.” Gram grabbed a knife from the drawer and sliced the pie that looked delicious.

Tobi slid up on the stool that still had her initials carved into the wood and inhaled the sweet, spicy scent of spices.

“This is a celebration of sorts. What’s a party without spirits?” Gram took down an unembellished bottle from the cabinet along with two mason jars.

“Is that dandelion wine, Gram?”

“It most certainly is,” she said proudly. “I saved back a bottle for special occasions, but I usually sell out at the farmer’s market. No one makes their own wine anymore.”

“You still have a booth at the market?” Tobi used to help her Gram. The highlight of the morning’s spent in the booth had been a visit to the candy store after.

“Of course, but August built me a refrigerated shed close to the house where I store pies, cheese, and vegetables from the garden so buyers can come here to purchase what they want. Now, can anyone tell me how we got off on the wrong foot?” She swiped her grey eyes between Tobi and August who’d casually leaned himself against the counter, arms crossed, and returning the stare with a hooded gaze.

“Just like he said, Gram. I thought he was an intruder,” Tobi muttered, eyeing the wine in desperation. If her memory served her well, the concoction was strong enough to make a person’s hair stand up. She’d learned her lesson when she snuck a drink at thirteen, but she believed she could handle herself now.

“Oh for heaven’s sake. Who’d want to break into this old place?” Gram handed August a large slice of pie topped high with whipped topping and a sprinkling of cinnamon.

Tobi made a mental note that he got the first slice. She wasn’t petty, but after speaking to Bush, she needed to find out if August could be trusted. Taking a gulp of the wine, she squinted and saw stars. “Sheesh, Gram. This should come with a warning.”

“It does. The label says, “Drink responsibly’. I can trust that you won’t be meddling in my gun cabinet again, right?”

What could Tobi say? It was best to remain quiet.

“I don’t hold any hard feelings.” August shifted on his worn boots. “Tobi only meant to protect the homestead. Who can blame her for that?”

She caught a bit of sarcasm in his tone. Their gazes connected for an awkward breath and Tobi forced a smile onto her tight lips. Easier to catch flies with honey than vinegar. “Honest mistake. Could have happened to anyone.”

“Right.” He winked.

Why did her stomach turn? She was quite aware of this new August with his handsome face, charming smile, and rock-hard body. She guessed he got a lot of attention from all the ladies in town. When he dug into his pie, she took the opportunity to sneak another peek down the stretch of T-shirt that hugged his torso to the bulge just below his leather belt anchored with an eye-catching buckle wide enough to serve a T-bone on. The temperature rose a notch. As a kid she thought he had cooties, and he probably still did, but she wouldn’t mind catching a few…

What the hell?

Had she lost her mind?
Rhonda Carver. CowboyAugustFinal (Kindle Locations 616-670). Kindle Edition.

While these two get off on the wrong foot, Isobella throws them together consistently. They were friends as children they can get along now. But Tobi has to open up to conversations and things that can be proven.

The relationship between Isobella and Tobi needs some work and the things that Isobella holds back she really shouldn’t have. August has to prove himself more than once even as he falls for Tobi all over again.

Tobi has to deal with her issues in order for this romance to work.

Twists and Turns, a bit of suspense and a simmer to sizzle romance.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

Will he risk everything, even his life,
for trouble in stilettos?

As Savage Halo Royalty, Brick is a revered MC member, but because he isn’t “blood” some Royalty members don’t trust him, including Vice President King. Royalty has been breathing down Brick’s neck to marry an ol’ lady of their choice to prove his loyalty to the club.

For three years, Brick has been undercover. He’s spent every minute carefully planning his next move, watching his back, and building trust within the club to do one thing. Bring down criminal Max King. Brick’s so close he can almost taste it.

Then in walks trouble from the past.

Ireland Atlas is an ex-member and deserter of Savage Halo, which puts her on a “list” with Royalty. She’s looking for her sister who was last seen near the Broken Halo Club that Brick runs. When Ireland gets him caught up in a situation that puts her life in danger, and risks exposing him as an agent, he vows to save her. But first, she must do something for him.

They must marry.

They will have to fight to stay alive. But can they fight the feelings erupting between them?

NOTE:
Undercover Silvers are part of an undercover unit with the DEA. They focus on bringing down MC criminals. Each agent has a story to tell of tours of duty, war wounds, heartbreak, resilience, and most importantly, skill. And they’re all SILVER FOXES.

Ireland Atlas has to find her sister, the only way she can think of to find her is through Brick. The last she heard he’s now Savage Royalty which means if Meg is back with King he’d know or he could get her a conversation with King.

Brick does get her that conversation but it has some very interesting consequences.

This is a favorite scene.

Blinking rapidly, Ireland tried to focus on the ceiling that looked strange to her.

She wasn’t at home. Where was she?

Turning her head on the hard pillow, a dull ache ripped through her temples.

Ten seconds later she could finally lift herself up on her elbow and better survey her surroundings. She was back in the red room.

Pressing her fingers to her forehead, she tried to focus on her memories flooding back in frightening detail. King. The brunette at the dinner table. The red dress that belonged to Meg.

The same one she was still wearing.

Wine. A dizzy spell. King wanting retribution.

He’d slipped something in her wine. What had he given her?

A combination of anger, fear, and concern scurried through her, seizing her muscles in an invisible clamp. She had to get out of this room, and far away from King and his insanity.

Why wouldn’t her body move?

She heard a soft clicking sound across the room. The doorknob turned. Someone was coming in. The question became was it King, or one of his goons?

Forcing her legs to move, she fell off the side of the bed with a thud. She’d think of the pain later but right now she needed to get away. Crawling across the rug, she huddled in the corner, covering her hand over her mouth to stifle a scream.

Holding her breath, she saw a flash of black.

Then she saw Brick.

Was she seeing things? She blinked wildly, but he was still there.

“Brick?”

He didn’t say a word but came around to sit on the floor beside her. She fell into his comforting arms, holding back tears. She hoped she wasn’t dreaming because this felt too good to be true.

“It’s okay, Ireland. I’m here. You’re safe,” he said next to her ear, his fingers tangling in her hair.

His muted words sounded like they were being piped through speakers, or maybe it was because her blood thrummed through her veins sounding like a waterfall. Either way, she didn’t want him to ever let her go so when he pulled back, she moaned in regret. She met his concerned gaze. “Wh-what are you doing here?”

“What the hell happened?”

“King. He drugged me. I can barely move. How-how did you get in here?” Her chest rose and fell as she placed her hand on his muscled thigh, leaning into him for strength.

“I can explain that later, but right now I’m afraid we don’t have much time for chit-chat.” His growl echoed through the room. “Can you walk?”

“I can try.” Her muscles clenched as she moved, forcing them to function. He helped her to her feet and her legs wobbled but she didn’t care if she had to suddenly grow wings she would get out of the room. Brick encircled her waist with his arm to help her.

“I think you’ll need the help.”

“How will we get out?” She eased against him, inhaling his leather scent.

“That’s an interesting story.”

“You’re worrying me. Can we get out?” Some of her fear returned.

He looked tormented by something. “You told King we were getting married,” he said in a whisper.

Oh shit! Would he be mad at her? “I couldn’t let that snake touch me. It was the only thing I could think of.”

“Yeah, I understand,” he pushed through thin lips. “We have a slight problem though.”

“Slight? I’d say being here is a big problem.”

“Agreed, but what I’m about to tell you will make things even worse. King doesn’t believe that we’re engaged. He thinks you lied to him.”

The drug was starting to wear off and her mind started to work with more precision. “Why does he care?”

“You know him well enough to not need to ask that question. He wants to save face possibly, or this is just another power trip, but whatever it is we need to agree to his terms.”

“Why should we agree to his terms? I bet he knows where my sister is. We should be the one making demands.” Her anger returned full force.

“Things work differently in the Halo, Ireland. The only way we’re safe is if we follow through.”

The gravity of the situation made her tremble. “Follow through? As in get married?”

He nodded.

She almost lost her balance. “You can’t be serious?”

“Ireland…” He stood, driving his fingers through his hair.

“Brick? We’re not his puppets.”

When she swayed, he caught her.

“Whoa. Let’s sit back down.” He led her to the bed.

“How can you be so calm?” She met his gaze.

“I came back to get you and that’s my mission. To get you out safe.”

“Call someone. Use your gun.”

“They took my weapon and my phone.”

“There has to be another way.” She slumped her shoulders, feeling sick.

“It’s not the end of the world. We can go through with this and get it annulled. If it means we make it out of this shit show with our lives, then so be it.”

What the hell had she gotten them into? “I want to know where Meg is. I need to know.”

He rubbed the tension from his jaw. “She isn’t with King.”

“How do you know? Is that what he told you? He lies!”

“Yeah, he lies, but not this time. That’s something else I’ll explain later. For now, let’s stay focused on leaving through the front door alive and well.”

“As husband and wife?” Her throat clenched as the world fell off of her lips.

“Don’t look so offended, sweetheart. After all, this was your hoax.” He put some distance between them. “I bet you never thought you’d be wearing red for your wedding, yet it seems more fitting than white.”

Seeing the twinkle in his eyes, she realized he was trying to make the situation lighter. He was right, she’d put them in this terrible position. All for nothing. “I’m sorry, Brick. I did this to us.” How many men would leave her high and dry? Not him. He came to get her and he cared for her safety.
Carver, Rhonda Lee. Broken Halo (Undercover Silvers Series MC Book 1). Kindle Locations (1349-1412). Kindle Edition.

Ireland was never very good at following orders and Brick is trying very hard to keep from revealing his true identity. He’s so close to taking King and the rest of the folks involved in trafficking down he can’t let anything prevent it.

There’s a lot of intrigue and suspense as Brick and Ireland look for Meg. There’s also the sizzling rekindling of their relationship.

I can’t wait to read the next book in this series. I hope it’s not too long a wait.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

Two stubborn firefighters are faced with an uncontainable blaze inside their hearts. Can they withstand the heat?

What’s a woman to do to get over a lying, cheating ex-husband? She finds a cowboy-firefighter like Luke “Mug” Foster to salve her open wounds. He’s exactly what the “heart” doctor ordered. He was tall, dark, handsome, and eager to stoke her fire. But what happens when Jady Pierce starts to have feelings for him? She runs before she loses herself to another heartbreak. People couldn’t be trusted, and she’d learned that lesson through a long list of men who’d done her dirty.

Jady was back in Cooper’s Hawk. Last year, she’d swept in, turned Mug inside out, then disappeared without a word. Story of his life. He wouldn’t lose himself in her again, yet there was something about her that challenged and excited him. To get to the “real” Jady, he’d have to chisel through some tough layers. She was carrying around a lot of pain…and not just from a cheating ex and a bum childhood. So what made her tick? What made her hurt?

She’d be sticking around town for a while when she accepted the Sheriff duties, but how would she keep her feelings for Mug in check? He had a hold over her and she could feel her walls crumbling.

An abandoned baby, an unveiling of secrets from the past, and Mug will have Jady slowly gaining trust as she finds peace, emotion and joy in the small town that she’d once hated. However, she isn’t the only one with a few demons to exterminate.

Jady Pierce is back in Cooper’s Hawk to settle her father’s affairs. The property she didn’t know he owned needed to be sold to pay off his medical bills but needed work first.

Luke ‘Mug’ Foster has been looking for property to buy since he decided to take the fire chief position. Hank Hawke is the one who lets him know about Jady’s property. He’s not sure about seeing Jady but he certainly would like to get a bid in on the property before it hits the market. That doesn’t stop him from stopping by the property at night, her light was on after all.

This is a favorite scene.

Traveling from place to place has lost its enticement. I like it here. I enjoy volunteering at the Landing Search and Rescue. I’ve also been taken on as Chief at the firehouse. I’ve even made some good friends. It’s time I planted some roots.”

“I’m happy for you.” Their gazes met.

“What about you? Cooper’s Hawk ain’t a bad place.”

“So are you trying to convince me to sell you Mags Farm or that I should stay?” Her laugh sounded weak.

“I’d like to buy.” He pressed his boot on a loose plank in the floor. He already had a ton of ideas on how to make the place better. “I just wondered if you had any emotional connections to the place.”

“Do you know how my father came to own this place?” She sank her brush in the paint again and stepped back over to the wall to start painting along the taped-off trim.

“Something about a poker game?” She looked over her shoulder at him. “I imagine someone would have to be drunker than my father to make that mistake.”

“Drunk or desperate to win the game.”

“Two of Bobby Sinclaire’s greatest achievements in life. Poker and liquor.” She went back to focusing on the wall. “He definitely did have a knack for card games. He’d spent more time in basement gambling clubs than he ever did at home. For that, I’m grateful.”

A familiar twinge developed in the center of his chest. He wasn’t a stranger to family turmoil.

Shrugging out of his jacket, he tossed it over a plastic covered chair and picked up the new roller.

“What are you doing?” she asked. “Helping. I’ve used a paint roller once or twice over the years.”

“Aren’t you tired? If you’ve been out on the mountain doing a search—”

“No. We were just out training a couple of horses. Anyway, I might as well do something to keep myself busy. I won’t be able to get to sleep for hours.”

“I don’t need any help—”

“Jady…” He wanted to be distant with her because she’d kicked him to the curb, but the last thing he wanted to carry around on his shoulders was anger when it wouldn’t add up to a bag of beans. Cooper’s Hawk, and the people in it, had taught him a lot about himself and what he wanted, and needed, not only for the present but also for his future. Each day he grappled with his troubles, but each day he also made amazing strides to recovery. “This isn’t for you as much as it is an ulterior motive. Maybe it’ll sway you to sell to me.” He rolled the sponge into the paint and made a wide W on the wall.

“Are you putting pressure on me, Cowboy? I’ve a had a few inquiries, just so you know.” She turned her back to him.

“No pressure.”

“Have you thought about all the work this place will need?”

“Well, obviously it hasn’t been a functioning farm for years. Your pa might have won it in a game of poker, but farming wasn’t his business. The fields will need a bush hog. The outbuildings will need reconstructed, possibly a few torn down. And the house,” he swung his gaze around, “will need more than a layer of paint or two. Or three. I’m willing to pay a fair price. I thought you’d be happy to get out of dodge.”

“This wouldn’t be my pick of places.”

“I think the townsfolk of Cooper’s Hawk would have their feelings hurt at a statement like that.” He dipped his dry roller, glancing over at her. She did a little bounce as she attempted to reach the highest point of the wall. “Here, let me take care of that” He grabbed the ladder and set it up close to the wall. “Even tall women need a little help to reach places sometimes.”

Their gazes met for a fleeting second before she turned away. He skimmed his gaze up her long, toned legs to the hem of the shorts, feeling a tug in places he needed to shut off. Clearing his throat, he grabbed up his roller and focused on finishing up the last bit of wall. “Do you have someone you need to get home to?” He shouldn’t ask, but a curious man couldn’t hold his tongue.

After a tense hesitation, she answered, “No. How about you? Do you have someone who might be wondering where you are tonight?”

His chuckle vibrated off the bare walls. “If I did, I wouldn’t be here.”

“Well good.” She stepped down from the ladder and dropped her brush in a bucket of water. “I wouldn’t want to be in the middle of any drama. I know how folks around these parts can talk.”

There was that look again, a sadness that consumed the brightness in her eyes.

“Why did you do it, Jady?” He needed an explanation. “Do what?”

“Leave like you did last year. You disappeared.” He shifted in his boots. Seeing her expression, he wished he’d kept his mouth shut but that couldn’t happen. “It was a pretty shitty thing to do.”

“Why are you bringing this up? Can’t we leave the past where it belongs?”

“Hell if I know. I didn’t come here tonight to exchange tidbits about what we shared. I guess the curiosity overcame me.” He moaned. “Damn, forget I asked.” He didn’t want to expose too much of his raw emotions. It didn’t matter anyway. She’d leave town soon enough.

“You don’t seem like the type to get your feelings hurt so easily.”

“And I didn’t think you were the type to bail out so callously. Sometimes we’re wrong about a person.” He dropped his roller into the water bucket. As if an invisible force took control of him, he crossed the short distance between them. He saw her eyes widen as he bent and kissed her. It couldn’t have been described as a passionate kiss, but one of pent-up energy and closure. When he pulled away, he explored her expression, humored by the flecks of twinkles in her eyes and the quiver in her bottom lip. She stood there and stared as if she couldn’t wrap her brain around what had just happened. “There. Now that’s a proper goodbye in my book. Or hello. Either way, I got that out of my system, so I think we’re good.” He swallowed the giant cotton ball feeling in his throat then reached for his jacket and swung it over his shoulder. “You have a nice night, ma’am, and welcome to Cooper’s Hawk, for however long as you’ll be here.” He strolled out and inhaled a needed dose of oxygen. His body screamed for more of the kiss, but logic warned him he’d left things on a good note so leave it at that.

Smiling, he climbed into his truck, turned up the music, and drove home. He had a feeling he’d be out like a light once his head hit the pillow.
Rhonda Carver. CowboyLuke.FinalTOC1 (Kindle Locations 386-437). Kindle Edition.

Jady has a lot of decisions to make, but one of the easiest is to let Mug buy the farm. The other took some consideration but she also agreed to be the acting sheriff while Sheriff Conley was away on personal business.

That one leads to quite a few interesting encounters.

The more time Mug and Jady spend together the more the attraction ramps up. These two are definitely meant to be together, but her past just keeps getting in her way.

Fun, tension, surprises and a romance that sparks then flares to life.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

She’s his best friend’s sister and off limits…but then again, he never cared much for limits.

Daisy Bloom had wanted her brother’s best friend, Boone Hawke, for as long as she could remember. Why couldn’t he see her for more than her brother’s little sister? She decided to take charge of her own fate and bring out a few tricks to get him to see her differently. A kiss, a flirty smile, and a flash of her “assets” might get him to bite the forbidden apple.

There was something in the water. Must be for Daisy to flirt with him. Brody’s little sister wasn’t so little anymore and Boone had noticed. She’d metamorphosed from the girl with the too-large glasses and oversized bibs, always wearing a smear of dirt on her cheek, to a seductive woman who had him in her crosshairs. Too bad she was off limits. There was a buddy code Boone didn’t plan to cross. Yet, what would one kiss hurt? One itty-bitty touch should put his fantasy to rest.

Wrong.

One touch sent them into a labyrinth of lust, secrets, and betrayal. A line had been destroyed and there was no going back,. They were caught in a mind-blowing, carnal web. Did they have a future together or would they crash and burn? Sometimes hard decisions needed to be made, and someone would be hurt.

Daisy Bloom has been in love with Boone most of her life. She’s had relationships but no one has come close to capturing her heart. Boone is her brother’s best friend and still sees her as a kid. You’d think he’d notice the difference now she’s thirty.

Boone has noticed Daisy, but years ago he promised Brody he wouldn’t date any of his sisters. He’s got a playboy reputation, and Brody and everyone else isn’t letting that go.

When Daisy’s sister Chynna gives her some ideas Boone takes notice and he’s conflicted. If he makes a move he’ll lose his best friend, and if he doesn’t it could lose her to someone else. He does give in and agree to help raise the money for the new town park and he a good idea for it and would discuss it at the Gender Reveal for his brother and sister-in-law.

This is a favorite scene.

“Want me to take over here?” Hank asked.

“Huh?” Boone pulled his gaze away from Daisy and pretended interest in flipping a burger.

“Let me have the spatula before we have more burgers on the ground than in our mouths.” Hank took the tool and manned the grill. “Word of advice, go speak to her.”

“What? Who?”

Hank’s laugh made a few bystanders turn to look. “Don’t deny it. Your interest in Daisy Bloom is about as subtle as an elephant in a china shop.”

Rubbing his jaw, he glanced at her and she was ladling punch into her cup. He removed his stare and concentrated on opening another package of buns. “It’s just taking me some time to get used to her without glasses.”

“I bet. And maybe that form fitting red dress too?” Hank teased. “Hi, Daisy.”

Boone looked up. How the hell did she move so quick?

“Boone, you ready to go over the details on the park?” Her tongue came out to roll across her plump bottom lip and he swore he broke one of the zipper teeth in his worn jeans.

Swallowing the lump in his throat, he nodded and left the grill area. “Let’s walk.” If they were going to work together, he needed to clear the air. Walking around with a boner wouldn’t be productive, or healthy, for him. Once they were away from the crowd, he stopped and hooked his thumbs in his front pockets. “About last night—”

“Last night was—”

They both started in unison.

She laughed and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

“You go first,” he offered. “I was just going to say that I don’t want things to be awkward between us after last night.”

“Why would they be awkward?” He shifted on his worn boots.

Her cheeks flushed. “I-I was just a little tipsy.”

“Really? I couldn’t tell.” He chuckled. “Let’s walk over and sit down by the water.”

Once they were seated on the weathered wooden bench, she toed off her boots and set them aside. “Much better,” she said.

“When we were kids you were barefoot all the time.”

“I still am when I can be.” She crossed her legs and the slit of the dress parted, showing off her nice thighs. His gaze seemed to lock on her legs all the way down to her delicate ankles. Her toenails were painted a bright red. She had nice feet and he wasn’t sure he’d ever noticed anyone’s feet before now. Not that he was a foot man. He liked a woman’s smile, and she wasn’t lacking in that area either. “How about we go out and sit on the dock so I can dip my feet in the water.” She was already up and moving that direction.

He followed, watching the natural sway of her hips.

She sat down, tugging at her skirt, then dipped her toes in.

Toeing off his boots and socks, he joined her, sitting a little closer than he normally would.

“Want a sip?” she offered.

“Sure.” He took a swallow from her cup then handed it back, feeling a stiffness behind his zipper when she pressed her lips to the same spot where he’d drank. How could something so simple cause such a strong emotion in him?

He wanted to lick the remaining sweetness of the punch off her lips.

“About the committee, I know it isn’t your cup of tea, but I could use the help.” She rolled the tip of her finger along the rim of the cup.

He eased back onto his hands and stretched his legs. The coolness of the water helped to ease some of the heat in his veins. “I said I’d help and I meant it. I won’t back out. What happened to Mitch? I would have figured he’d fight tooth and nail to spend some time with you.”

“He wouldn’t face a duel for me.” She laughed.

“Huh?”

“It’s an inside thing. What I meant, a man would fight an enemy, face death, for the woman he loves, and Mitch has met her…and her name is Katherine.” She looked out across the pond where geese skimmed the top of the water. “We both thought it best that he does not help.”

“Katherine? Is that his ex?”

“Yes.”

“I’d forgotten about her.” He scratched his temple.

“Well, he hasn’t.” She brought the cup to her lips and sipped, then set it aside.

“Did this knowledge come after you rejected him or before?”

Her eyes widened. “How do you know that I rejected him?”

“The text I received from you pretty much gave it away. You wouldn’t have bothered with me if you were in a cowboy’s arms.”

“I would have never slept with Mitch,” she said quietly.

“You certainly seemed hell bent last night.” Anger boiled inside him.

“I-I…”

“What?”

“To sleep with a man I need more reason than loneliness.” Her eyes turned darker.

“How is it possible that you can be lonely?”

“I thought we came out here to discuss the park, not my love life, or lack thereof.”

“You and everyone else seem to enjoy discussing mine. Maybe it’s time I turned the tables.”

She shifted to look at him. “What do you mean?”

“I mean everyone thinks they know what happens in my bed. I know a bit about loneliness myself.” He’d divulged more than he wanted to, but it felt right to allow her in.

She laughed but once she realized he wasn’t teasing her expression sobered. “Sorry, but…”

“There. Right there. You all think you know me.”

“Okay, then. Just as you’ve promised to not call me Frog again, I’ll promise not to assume you’re a playboy.” She held up two fingers pressed together in oath.

He sat up and pressed his elbows against his knees. “Oh sheesh. Saying that aloud makes it all sound even worse.”

She leaned over and lifted his shirt, looking at his back. “Nope, don’t see any.”

“And what don’t you see?”

“Claw marks. I’m sure if you bedded Talia her three-inch nails would have left permanent marks.”

“You’re funny. Can we please not mention her name again?”

“Sure, but it’s kind of hard when you’re wearing her scent.” She sniffed and wrinkled her nose. “Is that Eau de Taliette?”

“Yeah, you just keep getting funnier.”

“Okay. Okay. I brought you out here to discuss raising money, not putting my nose where it doesn’t belong. We should stay on track. We need a proposal and don’t have much time.”

“Is that why you’re no longer pissed at me? You want to reel me in to talk money?” He jerked up a brow.

“Your sparkling attitude keeps me from staying mad at you,” she teased.

“Fine. What do you have in mind?’

“A rodeo?”

“Takes too much time.”

“A dance?”

“Won’t raise enough money. Wouldn’t be worth our while.”

“How about a carnival? The committee put on one a few years ago and it did very well. We could dress you up as a clown and you can tie balloons into funny shapes for the kids.”

“Nope.” He shook his head.

She sighed and irritation crawled over her face. “You’ve shot down all my ideas so why don’t you name something, Einstein.”

“I do have some ideas, you know.”

“I believe you, but you have to communicate them so we’re not spinning our wheels.”

“If I could get a word in,” he huffed.

“Fine. Go ahead.”

“How about a concert?”

“Like a singing on stage concert?” She snickered. “I love the idea, but I’ve heard you sing and I’m even worse. We want to raise money, not destroy anyone’s hearing.”

“Jinx Crow.”

“Jinx? I haven’t heard that name in years. I thought after a few years of living the life of a popular music career he disappeared off the face of the earth.”

“He disappeared but not off the face of the earth. He retired because the life of a star wasn’t fit for him. Now he writes music for big hit artists. Imagine how many people would show up to hear him sing and for an autograph. He’s a hometown boy. People remember him.”

“Okay. I’ll bite. How can we get Jinx to come back to Cooper’s Hawk and do a concert? As far as I know he hasn’t been here since he took off for Nashville at eighteen. What makes you think he’ll want to come back now.”

“He owes me a favor and I haven’t called it in yet. He and I happen to stay in touch and it’s worth a shot.” He looked up into the sky and the large, puffy clouds.

She laid her hand on his bicep and he snapped his chin around to look at her. “See, Boone, this is why you’re a benefit to the committee.
Rhonda Carver. CowboyBoonefinal-with-toc (Kindle Locations 796-867). Kindle Edition.

When these two finally come together, it’s explosive and kept a secret. Someone is going to have to break it to Brody sooner or later, unfortunately he’s going to find out on his own.

This is a fun read with plenty of sizzle and a cowboy who needs to listen to his heart.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“

By
Rhonda Lee Carver

When he met her, she needed him…but he realized he might need her more.

Being on the run, homeless, and hungry, it seemed fate had led Helena and her daughter to Cooper’s Hawk where everyone was welcoming, especially one cowboy who took a protector role. She wasn’t a damsel in distress, but she wasn’t prideful either. She’d do anything to keep her daughter safe.

Hank Hawke wasn’t a stranger to challenges. His scars ran deep, but the invisible scars ran much deeper. Coming home from a tour in IRAQ after a bomb explosion killed men in his unit, and left him seriously injured, he had to rebuild and reshape his life. The last thing he needed was a woman with a lot of trouble showing up to breach the secure wall he’d placed around himself, and his heart. However, a cowboy was allowed to change his mind.

Trust wasn’t easy for Helena or Hank, but can they learn to overcome the past to have a future? Are they strong enough to combat the demons? Can Helena hide in a small town where everyone knows everyone…and everything. Someone from the past wants her to pay a price, but Hank will protect her, and her daughter, against all monsters.

Helena left the man her father wanted her to marry at the alter. She picked up her daughter, emptied her savings account and started driving. She’d pulled off the main highway to get gas and still hasn’t found the gas station the sign referred to, when her cell rings. She pulls to the side of the road and shuts the engine to answer. Her best friend is calling to be sure she’s okay. Helena wasn’t sure she and Freya are but she’s doing the best she can. Which right at the moment wasn’t very good, but they were safe and together. After the conversation Helena’s car won’t start and she’s contemplating what to do. The sign she saw said Cooper’s Hawke Landing 5 miles, but she isn’t sure how much of that she’s actually gone.

A truck stops and the driver and older man offers her a ride to town. It takes a bit of convincing but she agrees, at least to the edge of town, or so she thought. She was further from civilization than she realized when she refused to let the man take her further. Now walking in the rain carrying her daughter who had taken off her shoes again and is barefoot. She’s relieved when she sees the sign for Pelican Hawke a bar and grill. She couldn’t bring Freya inside but maybe there was some shelter in the back.

Hank is the owner of Pelican Hawke and when we meet him he’s having a nightmare flashback. He doesn’t get them often anymore thanks to medication and therapy, but it was a long day on Search and Rescue. When he goes downstairs to his office he’s watching the security cameras. He sees Helena enter the bar and realizes she’s a stranger in town. However when he sees her steal a sandwich he gets a bit angry.

Discovering her plight Hank asks her to come into the kitchen of the bar and have something to eat.

This is a favorite scene.

Hank hung up, left his phone on the desk and went back into the kitchen.

“All okay, my friend?” George whipped something in a glass bowl.

“Fine. Why?”

“You look a bit out of sorts.”

“Can you make some food—” The back door opened and Hank’s explanation disappeared with a hiss of breath. Helena and her daughter stepped inside. Now that the little girl was awake and standing on her own two feet, barefoot, Hank could see the similarity between mother and daughter.  “Hi,” he said to them both.

“I-I hope it’s okay.” Helena swiped a glance between Hank and George who if was surprised hid it well. Some of her natural color had returned but the suspicious element in her eyes remained.

“Ladies, this is George, best cook this side of Montana,” Hank introduced the man who greeted them with a smile.

“I’m Helena and this is Freya.”

“I’m Hank,” he told the child who stared up at him with wide doe-like eyes. She held her mom’s hand and partially hid. “Come and have a seat. George can make you whatever you like. Right, buddy?”

The man must have been in a semi-trance because it took him two seconds to answer. “Sure. Anything you want. I bet you like chicken tenders,” he said to Freya who answered with a nod that was so small it could have just been a movement.

“She loves chicken tenders,” Helena answered.

“How about you, ma’am?” George asked, already gathering ingredients.

“Don’t worry about me,” she answered quietly. “I’m not hungry.”

Hank studied her face. He didn’t know her, but he could see by the set of her jaw that pride kept her from accepting a handout. Was she scared he’d ask her for payment?

“Ah, come on,” George said. “It’s not often I get to prepare a meal for special guests. Can I interest you in a cheeseburger and sweet potato fries, not to toot my own horn, but it is my specialty?”

There was only a second’s hesitation. “Sure. I appreciate it.”

“Come and sit down.” Hank pointed at the bar stools organized around the wooden kitchen island.

Once they were seated, Hank washed his hands and dried them then nervously stuffed them into his front pockets. What had come over him? He’d met plenty of petite, pale, suspicious women in his day so what made her different?

Helena laid her hands politely in her lap while Freya stared at him.

Feeling like he needed to do something quick, he asked, “Can I get you both something to drink?”

“Can I have cherry pop?” The little girl asked with big eyes.

“We’ll take water,” Helena cleared her throat and resituated herself on the stool. Little, spirals of hair had stuck on her long, lithe neck and other curls had weaved their way around tiny, sparkling earrings which seemed out of place compared to her outfit.

Realizing he had steered off track, he stepped over to the refrigerator and grabbed two bottles of water and placed them on the table. Then he grabbed the bottle of brandy from the cabinet and poured a small amount, not enough to get a person drunk but enough to take the chill off. He pressed the small glass into the woman’s hand who looked at him like he’d grown horns. “Just enough to take the chill out of your bones.”

She made several swipes from the amber liquid back to him as if debating what she should do.

He started to get the idea she would hand the glass back to him. “It’s only a swallow but if you don’t want it—”

“What is it?”

“Brandy.”

She took a sip. Her slight quiver told him she savored the pool of warmth in her stomach that would soon spread to the rest of her body. He knew that look all too well from a time when he’d relied on the bottle to warm him too…but not from the cold weather.

“Can I have some?” Freya asked.

“If it’s okay with your mom I can make you hot chocolate,” Hank offered, receiving a nod of approval from Helena.

While he went about preparing a cup, she emptied the brandy. When he set the cup of steaming hot chocolate piled with marshmallows in front of Freya she appeared excited as if he’d just given her a bowl of candy. “Be careful,” Hank said. “It might be a little hot.”

When George placed their plates on the table, they dug in. Freya snatched up a handful of fries and rammed them into her mouth.

“Slow down or you’re going to choke,” Helena said to her daughter.

She slowed shoveling the food in but only slightly.

Helena went about eating with more refined control. She shook out a napkin and laid it over her lap, and Hank was caught by her proper manners. Not that anyone in her situation couldn’t have manners, but there was a quality about her behavior that told him she’d been taught proper etiquette.

Hank gave them a few minutes of uninterrupted eating before he finally asked, “Are you two just passing through?”

The creases around her eyes returned and he realized he’d crossed a line he didn’t even know was there.

“I’m going to take a break.” Whether George sensed the tension or truly needed a break, Hank couldn’t be sure but alone with the woman and her kid he felt a bit awkward. He couldn’t seem to get his communication right.
Rhonda Carver. Cowboy-Hank-Final-with-toc (Kindle Locations 658-700). Kindle Edition.

A warm dry place for the night in the form of Hank’s apartment over the bar, allows Helena and Freya to have a good night sleep. Now comes the hard part, her car, a job and a place to stay. All of these happen because of Hank.

Trusting isn’t easy for Helena but gradually and with some gentle persuasion from Hank, her story gets told. They also acknowledge the attraction between them. Helena still isn’t sure this is where she wants to stay but the signs are it would be a good place to settle with Freya.

A search and rescue and a fugitive add some intrigue.

I loved seeing Hank’s family together, it was a fun gathering.

A courtship, with fun, intrigue, some suspense and of course some sizzling heat.

5 Contented Purrs for Rhonda!

Rhonda Lee Carver

Rhonda Lee Carver is a published book writer with a collection of print and eBooks under her wing. She is also a freelance editor. Her first book was published with Wild Rose Press in 2010.

She writes everything from contemporary to steamy to paranormal to suspense…you name it, she’s written it. Her specialty is writing men who love to get their hands dirty—hardworking, blue collar, heroes in everyday life.

When Rhonda isn’t crafting edge-of-your-seat, sizzling novels, you’ll find her with her children and husband watching soccer, watching a breathtaking movie, traveling to exotic places (with Bora Bora on her bucket list), doing (or trying) yoga, saving cats and dogs, and finding new ways to keep life interesting.

Rhonda thrives on making her readers happy. She believes life can be a challenge, but reading is a place where fantasy comes to life. Her motto: “Everyone deserves romance—one page at a time.“