I usually do a throwback Thursday on this day, but I’ve got something more important to talk about so it’s getting shelved for this week.
This is just a reminder ( again!) that I’ll be at BOOKSBOOKSBOOKS2024 this weekend in Lancaster, PA at the Wyndham Expo Barn.
I attended this event for the first time last year and had such a remarkable time I wanted to do it again, so I was lucky enough to get in for 2024.
If you’re attending YAY!. I’ve got 2 tables this year because I am a sponsor, so come and visit me at tables 15 and 16. I will have all my Christmas books – Dickens and San Valentino family – all my NYC Socialite series books ( 1-5), A Pride of Brothers ( 1-3) and my award-winning 2024 suspense Retribution all for sale.
Plus lots of swag and stuff!
I hope you can make it and if you can, don’t be shy about stopping by and saying hello. This is such a wonderful event. You’ll find me next to my big, pepto bismol colored logoed banner:
I just 1 week LOVE MATCH releases into the book reading world and I am stoked and excited!!
SO, of course, today’s teaser is a little snippet from the book.And a familiar face pops up here.
“Hey, kids. Happy Happy,” Kick Loomis said, leaning over the bar so he could be heard. Befitting the occasion, he was wearing a black t-shirt with colored suspenders over it emblazed with Happy New Year and the year running up them. “What are ya drinking? I’ve got a few specials going tonight.”
Surprise shot through him when Layla ordered the champagne cocktail to his beer.
“What?” she asked when she smacked her lips and groaned after the first sip and found him staring at her mouth. “I love champagne and this is good.”
Kick overheard her, grinned, and gave her a thumbs-up before making his way down the bar.
Just hopping in here today for an extra blog about a few new things ( and some old ones, too!)
First, the preorder link for my May 21st release of LOVE MATCH: Heaven’s Matchmaker ( Book 2) is livelivelive over on Amazon. You can go there, click, and preorder it so you’ll have it on your Kindle on release day. It’s also going to be in KU for the 90-day first period.
Now that you know that, do me a favor and go on over to Goodreads and hit the WANT TO READ BUTTON for me. The more people who do that, the more the book gets visibility.
You don’t need to read book 1 to know what’s going on in book 2. The stories are stand-alones with some of the same characters revolving in and out of Heaven, NH. But, having said that, I’m the type of reader who likes to read series in order, so….
If you don’t want to enter the giveaway you can simply order MIX & MATCH using this Universal link. It’s in wide distribution ( Kobo, Nook, Smashwords, etc) so you have lots of different venues to purchase it.
Last, I’ve also got RETRIBUTION releasing on April 23 on Amazon. I set myself a goal of 1000 preorders for this book and right now I stand at…..18. YIKES!! 2o days left to get 982 readers. Can you help a sistah out? LOL
I’m also selling autographed print copies here, on my website. Just click on this link: RETRIBUTION and I’ll send you one. Shipping and handling are included in the price ( Which is cheaper than amazon’s!)
So I have a release date for my next book in the HEAVEN’S MATCHMAKER series, LOVE MATCH: May 21.
In this scene, we get introduced to Cody’s Huskie. I think you’ll like her name…lol
“What are you doing here?” That all too familiar sensation of heat rose up Layla’s neck and jaw again.
Why, whenever she was in his presence, did she react so rudely? Layla was many things but ill-mannered wasn’t usually one of them.
Except with Cody Fonda.
When he tilted his head and gave her a one-sided grin, she bit down on her lips, then said, “I’m sorry. I thought you were the delivery van I’ve been expecting.” Flustered, she repeated, “Sorry.
“I told you yesterday after we decided what you wanted done that I was gonna start today.”
“You did, but I thought you meant you were sending in a crew to deal with everything.”
For a few beats he just stood there, staring at her. That intense perusal had her insides swirling.
“Can we come in?” he finally asked. “It’s cold standing here.”
“Oh, jeez, sorry. Yes, yes, of course.” She threw the door open and stood back.
“Thanks.”
“And who is this lovely lady?” She offered her hand for the dog to sniff and was rewarded with a lick across her palm.
“This is Jane. She usually comes to sites with me because I don’t like to leave her home alone all day. Is that gonna be a problem?”
“Not at all. I love do—wait a minute.” She stood upright and shook her head side to side twice. “Your dog’s name is…Jane?”
He nodded.
“As in…Jane Fonda?”
He shot his index finger at her and grinned. “Got it in one.”
Her lips lifted. “Oh, my God. That’s just…”
He put the box down, tugged off his skull cap, and ruffled his hair into place. “I know, but it really is the perfect name for her. Now, to answer you,” he said as he zipped his jacket down, “My crew is currently out doing two other projects that require several people each. Yours are relatively easy and I can do them without help.”
I
ll have preorder links and GoodReads link up next. For now…happy reading. ~ Peg
I’m doing NANOWRIMO and the book I’m currently penning for it is book 2 in my HEAVEN’S MATCHMAKER series, LOVE MATCH ( Layla and Cody).
I want to show you the Pinterest board I have for this book because it explains so much about the work in progress. Click here to see the images I’ve got in there now: LAYLA AND CODY
Here’s the blurb-in-progress, too, so you can get a feel for the plot line. (Remember – work in progress!!! LOL)
Running away from a public scandal may be considered cowardly, but to Layla Warton it’s the perfect plan.
After her politically connected fiancé is indicted for embezzlement, bribery, and taking kickbacks from less-than-savory businessmen, Layla wants to put the public ridicule and shame of her guilty-by-association status behind her and move forward with her life. Not easy to do when all her supposed friends and supporters abandoned her and the taint of scandal-adjacent destroys the successful business and life she’s fostered for herself.
Happy childhood memories and the blessing of a local friend push her toward the tiny New England town of Heaven where she spent summers with her loving grandmother.
With the paparazzi on her tale, an ancient family home she needs to get livable, and a contractor too handsome for her sanity, Layla worries she’ll never be able to get her old life back again.
But would that really be such a bad thing?
Intrigued? LOL. I know I am.
And before this one’s ready, I invite you to read the first in the series: MIX AND MATCH ( Jasmine and Donovan) The ebook is on sale until Christmas for just 99 cents.
Guy Addison, a confirmed bachelor, believes in the old adage, “why buy a cow when you can get the milk for free.” Badly singed twice by cupid’s arrow, he’s learned his lesson. A well-respected college professor who teaches Marine Biology, he works hard on save-the-ocean projects. He just purchased his first home in Naples, Florida, an older house, that faces the blue-green waters of the Gulf. He plans to make major structural changes and decides to hire an interior designer to bring his vision to life.
Heather Llewelyn is a successful interior designer in Naples, Florida. Having been badly “taken” by a former business partner, she’s stayed clear of relationships. Her motto is: “Why buy a bull when you can enjoy a variety of beefcake.” When she overhears her friend’s brother’s sexist declaration, “Why buy a cow when you can get the milk for free,” she decides Professor Addison needs to be taught a lesson. Little do these two strong-minded individuals realize they’re very much alike.
EXCERPT:
“It’s with a great deal of pleasure that I have the honor of presenting the Last Man Standing plaque to Guy Addison!”
“Hear, hear!” Guy’s college fraternity buddies chorused.
“Speech! Speech!”
Speech? No one said I had to give a speech. He stared down at the brass plaque inscribed with the words Last Man Standing. “I don’t know whether to look at this as an award or a curse. Cupid exacted revenge on all of you, thinking you could get the best of the God of Love.”
“Tell us how you’ve been able to avoid the ball and chain.”
He’d never been blessed with a second sight, but he sensed the plaque was a bad omen. “I’m no expert on women, but a very popular American journalist once wrote, ‘Why buy a cow when you can get the milk for free?’”
****
“What a chauvinistic pig! Get his milk for free!”
Heather Llewelyn couldn’t believe what she’d just overheard coming from the other end of the deck. The Bay House was one of her favorite places to eat, but this pig-headed jerk had made her feel sick to her stomach.
Heather reached for a roll and applied the butter with a little too much force, making it crumble in her hand. “Who does he think he is?”
“My brother is quite opinionated when it comes to females, having his heart broken by the same woman, twice.” Her friend Jonelle smirked. “He’ll probably hang the plaque on the wall of his office, right next to the awards he’s received for his volunteer work in saving the humpback whales. You’re the perfect female to make him eat his words.”
“I’ll do it! Just call me Farmer Heather, but inflation is about to hit—the cost of my milk just went up.
Here’s the complete release schedule so you don’t miss one of these men when they get their comeuppance!
It’s release day for another of the wonderful LAST MAN STANDING series books – and today’s addition is from my dear friend and award-winning writer Kathryn Hills.
Gavin Hart’s intentions are noble. He’s putting all his energy and every penny he’s got into the marine science education program he devised with his grandmother, a world-renowned environmentalist from Cape Cod. Big boat, special equipment, and a crew of salty characters—everything is ready to launch. All he needs is the backing of his influential family. Turns out that’s the one thing he won’t get—unless he agrees to settle down and marry the woman of their choosing. A self-proclaimed bachelor for life, he’s never been tempted. That is until he meets Sophie.
High school science teacher Sophie Martin is only subbing in town for a few months. Yet the allure of the Cape—its nautical charm and off-season ambiance—has her wishing she could stay longer. Not to mention she’s falling for a local man with a heart of pure gold. They have a lot in common, including a passion for inspiring young minds. Too bad her days there are numbered. Plus, her boyfriend back home is hinting at a ring. Should she return to her previous life? Or is she brave enough to upend everything and take a risk on a man she barely knows?
Excerpt
Students spilled out into the hallway, and Sophie followed, shutting off lights, and locking the door behind them.
Laura Adams—her best friend and fellow teacher—sauntered up beside her. “Fancy meeting you here, Ms. Martin,” the sassy woman teased. “Well, tell me, how was your first week teaching high school science?”
The two women walked together toward the gymnasium, dodging teenagers, flung-open locker doors, backpacks, and sporting gear.
“I was nervous at first, but now I’m much more confident. The kids are all great.”
“Hey, hey, hey, no running in the halls,” Laura bellowed at a group of boys, speeding past them, shoving one another. She glanced Sophie’s way, instantly switching gears. “Some of us are going out tonight. You should come. I’ll introduce you to some nice guys. We’re meeting at the Galley Hatch.”
At first, the invitation appealed to Sophie, yet the idea of being introduced to “nice guys” made her balk. Laura was a notorious matchmaker, and that was the last thing she needed. “I shouldn’t. I promised my aunt I’d spend time with her since I’ve been gone all week. I think she’s having a hard time adjusting to being alone all day again. She keeps talking about adopting a cat or a talking bird.”
“Oh. Bummer. Offer stands if you can get away. Text me, and I’ll save you a seat.”
They entered the gym together and lingered in the double doors.
“Impressive,” Sophie said, adding a sigh of relief when she saw her class wasn’t climbing the walls. “Nice turnout of exhibitors.”
Laura casually looked around. “You should check it out since it’s your first time. Make the rounds with your kids.”
“I think I will.” Sophie went to leave, yet she ran smack into someone rushing past them with a box.
“Whoa! So sorry,” the person was quick to say.
She stepped back, and her gaze fell upon the one person she never expected to see up close and personal. “You,” she said in disbelief.
Hunky boat guy tipped his dark-haired head. “Do I…know you?”
The smooth, masculine sound of his voice washed over her like a warm summer wave. Sophie blinked up at him, her mortified expression reflected in his mirrored sunglasses. She opened her mouth, but nothing came out.
“Miss… Are you okay?” A sexy little smile turned his lips.
Surprised laughter bubbled out of Laura. “Who’s this?”
The man set his box down and removed his shades.
Both women gaped.
Crystal blue eyes. Stark against his suntanned skin.
“Gavin Hart. I’m exhibiting today. Well, I’m supposed to be. As per usual, I’m late. Can either of you ladies help me find my table?”
“Sophie will,” Laura blurted out, and she gave Sophie a little shove in his direction.
She spun and narrowed her gaze on Laura. “What about my kids?”
Laura shrugged. “They’re fine. You’re fine. This man is obviously fine.”
********Real Heroes Inspired This Book
New releases are always exciting. However, this book’s birthday is super-special because GAVIN – LAST MAN STANDING was inspired by true heroes. Those dedicated to introducing middle grade and high school students to marine science and the challenges facing our oceans today. So, come on… Meet the real-life and future Gavins and Sophies of the world. I know you’ll be inspired by them, too!
Zephyr Education Foundation is a non-profit ocean science and technology education program based in Woods Hole, MA. They offer unique opportunities to learn about science, research, technology, and career paths in ocean science. Since 2010, over 17,000 kids have experienced their scientific cruises on Vineyard Sound. 65 trips with over 1,200 students so far this year alone! Programs are hands-on, modeling actual operations conducted at the world-famous marine science research institutions in Woods Hole.
The rich history and many mysteries of New England are the perfect backdrops for many of KATHRYN’s books. Winding roads lined by old stone walls, forgotten cemeteries, grand homes with shadowy pasts…all sparks for her imagination. Whether it’s a quaint seaside town or the vibrant city of Boston, it’s easy for this “hauntingly romantic” author to envision the past mingling with the present. No surprise, some of Kathryn’s favorite stories include ghosts! Sprinkle in some magic, and you’re off on a great adventure.
When not writing, this best-selling author is reading, researching, gardening, or cooking up something special in her chaotic kitchen. She shares her colonial home in the north woods with those she loves most – her wonderful husband, daughter, and three crazy dogs.
At thirty-five, Mitchell Pierce has everything he’s ever wanted. An award-winning architect with his own firm, he collects expensive cars, owns a luxury ocean-front home, and a vacation condo on San Padre Island.
The only thing intruding on his idyllic life is the realization that the majority of his closest friends have married, and had children, which seriously impacts his Sunday football parties with the guys.
Haley Charles is the newly hired project manager at Pierce and McKenna, Architects, one of the city’s most prestigious firms. At twenty-eight, she’s the youngest member of the management team, and determined to make a good impression on the bosses.
When a rush request comes in from one of the firms most valued clients, Mitch has to cover for his honeymooning partner. With the majority of the staff already assigned to ongoing jobs, he finds himself working overtime with the new, and disturbingly attractive, project manager.
Will the late nights and a few shared kisses have him rethinking his bachelor status? Or, is he truly going to be ‘the last man standing’?
And don’t forget to order the Last Man Standing cookbook, GAME ON SNACKS.
All the proceeds from the recipe book go to the WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT
Game On Snacks … every confirmed bachelor’s Sunday spread! Twenty-eight delicious recipes. Everything from Appetizers to Sweet Treats.
A companion cookbook to the sweet romance series, Last Man Standing. Fourteen award-winning, best-selling authors bring you fourteen stubborn men, and the food they love!
Will our fourteen feisty heroines be able to keep up with the fellows’ appetites?
All proceeds from this cookbook will be donated quarterly to The Wounded Warrior Project.
from the upcoming book, CHANCE releasing 9.12.2022
Chance opened his eyes and before he could look down and assess the damage done to his clothing found a pair of the most beautiful green eyes he’d ever seen gazing at him with worry creasing a perfect brow. A halo of copper-colored hair sat secured in a high ponytail, a pencil sticking out of the center of the knot. Skin the color of pale cream glowed with heath. A tiny depression in the center of the chin was so unexpected Chance found himself staring at it for a few beats before he lifted his gaze back to her eyes.
“I can’t believe she threw her coffee at you,” the woman said, shaking her head. She slammed a fist on her hip. “What a waste of six bucks. Thank goodness it was a cold brew. Here,” she shoved a stack of napkins at him. “I don’t have a proper towel to give you. I still need to get supplies in. These will help, though, sop some of it up.”
The notion he should take the napkins drifted across his mind but he couldn’t manage to get his hands working. He was simply unable to do anything but stare at her. Covered in baggy blue overalls with a stark white t-shirt under then and white sneakers on her feet, she was the furthest thing from the type of woman he was usually drawn to. Six-foot models who were looking for a night on the town and free champagne cocktails were more his speed. But there was something so indescribably alluring about this woman dressed in clothes that did nothing for her, he simply couldn’t take his eyes off her.
A tiny head tilt as she stared at him and the subsequent slide of her ponytail to the side propelled Chance out of his stunned stupor. Blinking like he had ten eyelashes stuck under his lid he shook his head a few times then took the proffered napkins with a simple, “Thanks.”
While he began patting at his assuredly ruined suit, she asked, “Friend of yours?”
He barked out a laugh. “Hardly.”
Available for READ AND REVIEW in Booksprouts, now: CHANCE
Peggy Jaeger, Author 