2011 Claims - Round 1
May. 27th, 2011 11:14 am![[identity profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/openid.png){kind=small}
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spn_meanttobeNotes:
1. Make sure you understand the rules before claiming.
2. One prompt per person. One person per prompt. The exception being collaborations arranged ahead of time, but only one person in the team should do the claiming.
3. Claims will be first come, first serve in the order they are posted.
4. Prompts will be crossed out as they are claimed.
5. Claiming will close on Sunday, May 29th or when the prompts run out, whichever happens first. If there is interest, an additional round of prompts posted on Monday, May 30th. That round will close for claiming on June 1st, at which time claiming is closed.
6. Please use the claiming template below. You only need to list the prompt # in your choices.
#1 Saving Grace
If ever Grace Benson needs a man to ride to her rescue, now is the time—and Kansas preacher Simon Grafton is the man! When he encounters her on the roadside being brutally attacked by her uncle's farmhand, Simon doesn't flinch. He'll risk anything to defend this innocent from the madman who's still at large.
As Simon helps her heal and gain a new foothold in life, it becomes clear that his heart is what needs defending. Soon his only course of action is to make her his bride….
#2 The Cowboy's Triplets
Callahan Cowboys are bachelors for life! That is, until Pete Callahan's wily aunt delivers her ultimatum. The first Callahan to marry and have children—the more kids the better—wins the family ranch.
Like his five brothers, Pete never considered himself the marrying kind. And that's just fine with Jackie Samuels, a hardworking nurse who seems perfectly happy with her and Pete's Saturday-night arrangement. Until she realizes she wants something more from the hunky, footloose rancher. Like a father for the triplets she just found out she's having.
Pete couldn't be more delighted. He's suddenly got an instant family. Jackie's the only obstacle to their happy ending—she refuses to marry him. But maybe she knows the best way to land a cowboy is playing hard to get!
#3 Suddenly Texan
Texas is a long way from Oregon, but Amanda Allen isn't planning to make her stay in Brody's Crossing permanent. All she wants is to meet the brothers she only recently discovered she had and head back out—mission accomplished. But what to do about Leo Casale? The tempting Texan is doing his level best to make her feel right at home.
Leo is completely captivated by the stranger with secret! written all over her. He wants to help her, but Amanda refuses to confide in him. Does she have to be so stubborn and independent?
Things are happening way too fast. Suddenly, Amanda has a whole new family to get to know, including a certain irresistible charmer who's making her believe that she belongs here, too!
#4 Falling for the Nanny
Protecting the citizens of Safe Harbor is what gets cop-turned-P.I. Patty Hartman up in the morning. So how can she say no to a four-year-old who needs her help? Even if domestic detail isn't Patty's strong suit. Even if the little girl's father happens to be Dr. Alec Denny, the man Patty's loved since she was seventeen.
Alec came home to California for his career, but safeguarding his daughter's future trumps everything else. Hiring his high school sweetheart as her bodyguard is risky, especially with all that unfinished business between them.
With her maternal instincts—and a few other hot emotions—kicking in, Patty's got some serious soul-searching to do. It's not a choice between love and duty. It's about not letting the guy who broke her heart become the one who got away…again!
#5 My Favorite Cowboy
Rugged, rough and rowdy, Jarred Riddell is everything a cowboy should be. That's the problem. 'Cause Jarred has set his sights on a pretty lil' socialite who has no use for his unrefined ways. Luckily, he has a plan: get the local librarian to whip him into charm-school shape and that city gal will fall right into his gentlemanly arms.
But coconspirator Serena Higgens has more on her mind than proper manners. She's pined for years after the sweet, hardworking rancher who lacks a bit of polish. To earn some much-needed cash, she'll put her feelings aside and give Jarred a crash course in respectability. Besides, throwing out mud-caked boots and correcting double negatives should help Serena get over her crush. It's the perfect situation…until Jarred adds kissing to the lesson plan!
#6 Ramona and the Renegade
Deputy Joe Lone Wolf never would've guessed that helping someone at the side of the road in a thunderstorm would throw his carefully controlled world into a tailspin. But that's exactly what happens when he realizes the sexy "stranger" is his childhood best friend, Ramona. He's spent years convincing himself that she deserves more than a former rebel with a scarred past. But all it takes is one stormy night in a deserted cabin with Ramona to make the fierce lawman change his mind.
Falling for Joe is a risk veterinarian Ramona Santiago knows she shouldn't take. Everyone she's trusted has let her down and left her alone…except him. Can she possibly hope that she and Joe were always meant to be more than friends?
#7 The Wedding Bargain
Michael Morgan is a man who always gets what he wants, and he wants The Whiskey Sour. The run-down bar would be perfect for his newest business venture…if it was for sale. Convincing the feisty redhead who owns the pub to sell will be tough, but ignoring his deep attraction to her could be nearly impossible.
Jess Bennett knows that Michael's offer could solve all her financial woes, but The Whiskey Sour is her last connection to her beloved grandfather. When she refuses to sell, she expects Michael to disappear. Instead, he invites her into his family and his life. Now the woman who always had a hard time trusting men is suddenly having an even harder time trusting herself around this seductive entrepreneur.
Is it safe for Jess to mix business with pleasure, or will she lose the bar…and her heart?
#8 For the Love of Texas
You Can't Miss What You've Never Had. That's the philosophy Claire Hannaford's always followed. Orphaned shortly after her birth, Claire's never had a family—and she's convinced herself she doesn't need one. Being on her own means she's free to take nursing posts wherever and whenever she wants.
Her latest assignment brings her to the Parker Ranch to care for ailing Mae Parker, the clan's formidable matriarch. Claire's never seen a close-knit family like this one, and it reminds her that she's on the outside looking in. Tanner Reid, a member of the extended family, feels he's as much an outsider as Claire and reaches out to her.
Before long, Claire realizes that Tanner and the rest of the Parkers have given her the home she's never had. And as the time to go draws near, Claire wonders how she can possibly leave her heart behind.
#9 Branded
Responding to a 911 call, Whitehorse Deputy Halley Robinson is stunned to find herself face-to-face with her teenage crush, Colton Chisholm. The schoolboy who had teased her is now a strong and sexy man—and he's on a mission to solve a case! But if he plans on unmasking a killer, he's going to need her help.
Colton can no longer run from the truth…someone in his small town has gotten away with murder. Now it's up to him to bring the killer to justice—with the help of local authorities, which, to his surprise, include Halley. The girl who had once idolized him is now a woman he must fight to resist. But as they work on the case, the attraction between them only grows stronger. Their rocky past may lead to a future together…unless the killer parts them forever.
#10 To Catch a Husband…
Impoverished husband-hunter Kitty Wythenshawe knows what she must achieve by the end of her London Season—marriage to a wealthy gentleman will save her mother from a life of drudgery. After all, love doesn't pay the bills.
Wealthy landowner Daniel Blackwood is proud to be an industrialist, even if it means he's not quite what the ton expects. And as for young ladies like Kitty, who care only for a man's fortune, well, they just ought not to feel so temptingly irresistible when you kiss them….
#11 More Than a Mistress
Charles Mountford, Marquis of Tonbridge, has long felt the weight of responsibility. He knows he must do his duty and take a wife. But when he's left snowbound with the unconventional Miss Honor Meredith Draycott, he finds that his inner rogue wants to come out to play....
Merry doesn't need a man—no matter how handsome he is! Sadly, society takes a different view. Charlie is more than happy to make her socially acceptable, but only if she acts publicly as his betrothed and privately as his mistress!
#12 Abby and the Bachelor Cop
Bride-to-be Abigail Callahan has her life mapped out. Good career, wealthy fiancé—it's perfect...too perfect. Then sexy bad-boy-turned-cop Raff Finn reenters Abby's life, landing her with an adorable homeless dog called Kleppy and a whole lot of trouble....
Raff's teenage recklessness once broke them apart, but he's not about to let his childhood sweetheart marry the wrong guy. With help from Kleppy and some Banksia Bay magic, Raff plans to reawaken the Abby he's always loved.
#13 Accidental Mistress
The things she had to do to save her family business! Emily Quest had dressed to the nines and gone to an awful party, where she'd been rescued by a handsome stranger.
Despite the sizzling attraction between them, Emily never thought she'd see him again. But now he's right in front of her, as gorgeous as ever! Ethan West thinks Emily is a rapacious good-time girl, and he's about to make her face the consequences--in his bed!
#14 In Bed with the Boss
For three years, Kalera has been a model secretary to Duncan Royal, with only one hiccup in their otherwise perfect relationship: a one-night stand that should never have happened, and which both have tried to forget. Or so Kalera thought.
But Duncan is haunted by their one night of unbelievable passion, and secretly longs for their relationship to develop after office hours. As a rule, he can have any woman he wants—so he's furious when Kalera announces her engagement to another man! Whatever it takes, Duncan intends to entice her into his bed once more—and this time it will be forever.
#15 24 Karat Ammunition
Langston Collingsworth was a man to be reckoned with. Powerful and president of the family oil business, opportunists looked at him and saw money, but he saw the land as his life force. So when the Collingsworth empire was threatened--it was personal.
It happened innocently enough--a young girl needing his help. But her mother was none other than Trish Edwards--Langston’s high school sweetheart. Trish and her daughter were trapped in a blackmail and murder investigation and had been on the run since the day Trish gave birth to a Collingsworth heir.
Could Langston trust Trish after the years of deception? He had no choice if he wanted to protect her child--his child--and face down the trouble headed their way.
#16 Sweet Persuasions
Settling down isn't high on Xavier Eaton's list—he's having too much fun playing the field, sharing his bed but never his heart. All that changes when the high-ranking military man and longtime bachelor comes back to South Carolina and walks into Selena Yates's tantalizing patisserie....
Charleston is a long way from Selena's West Virginia mining hometown. And the gorgeous Eaton war hero isn't like anyone the wary chocolatier has ever met. Xavier's kisses spark desire...and a powerful yearning to belong to him. As his kisses heat up the sultry Southern nights, Selena is tempted to say "I do" to a lifetime of passion. But is she ready to take her rightful place among the Eaton women as Xavier's beloved and adored bride?
#17 Nurse Bride, Bayside Wedding
Dr. Ed Tremayne hasn't been home for a long time. Now he's back—and he's needed! A virus outbreak on a stranded cruise ship in Penhally Bay is threatening lives. Lives that Ed can save—but only if he can put his traumatic past behind him. With the ship's nurse at his side, he begins to think he can do anything….
The chemistry between Ed and nurse Madeleine Granger is undeniable. If they can overcome the past together, maybe then Ed can look to the present and see the bride standing before his eyes.
#18 No Ordinary Man
Race car driver Eli Ward is happiest behind the wheel…when he isn't being pursued by too many eligible females. But ever since he asked Jennifer Ashby to pose as his girlfriend, the happy-go-lucky racing star has eyes only for her. Except Jen's no starry-eyed fan. If Eli wants to win this race, he'll have to show her that their fantasy romance is the real thing….
#19 Daisy Chain
Billionaire businessman Quinn Parrish is used to women falling at his feet. But when pregnant hairstylist Daisy Brookshire faints right in front of him, his life changes overnight. Getting the wary mother-to-be to trust him will take some fancy footwork…especially if he wants to convince her that he's the husband she needs.
#20 Her Best Friend's Wedding
When did Sadie Beecham get those curves? She'd always been the geek next door, his baby sister Meg's brainy best friend. Smart, sure. But hot? He never would have imagined it…before. Now, Trey Kincaid's imagining all sorts of things. And none of them has to do with Sadie's gifted mind.
A mind, he discovers, she's clearly lost. Because she thinks she's in love with Meg's fiancé. And that's an obsession he's determined to put an end to—one way or the other.
#21 Honeymoon with the Rancher
Tomas Mendoza left the city behind when he retreated to a rustic Argentine ranching guesthouse after losing his fiancée. He has found peace working the land…until socialite Sophia Hollingsworth plants her stilettos in front of him and demands to stay the week.
Sophia is nursing private hurts of her own—after all, she is on her honeymoon…alone. Her bravado is a cover act to show everyone she can stand on her own two feet. Trouble is, she's in danger of being swept away into the rancher's arms!
#22 What's a Housekeeper to Do?
Being housekeeper to crime writer Cameron Travers should be a pretty simple, safe job—just what Lally Douglas wants. Once burned, forever shy Lally wants to blend into the background.
Cameron Travers is attractive, intelligent, fun and very charming! Soon Lally wants to wear all colors of the rainbow and embrace life. Most of all she wants Cameron to notice her, in that way.
#23 Her Bad, Bad Boss
When glittering socialite Jade Beacham's life falls apart, she's determined to make a completely fresh start. Packing away her designer wardrobe, she heads out to the arctic splendor of Alaska to become deliciously dangerous Rhys Cartwright's newest—and feistiest—employee….
Expecting a high-maintenance princess, Rhys finds Jade's enthusiasm and natural beauty surprising…and outrageously enticing! If working together is wicked torture, then giving in to temptation is worse—as their blistering night together plays havoc with Rhys's strict "one night only" rule….
#24 The Rogue Wedding Guest
Hannah couldn't wait to get back home for her sister's wedding. But it's hardly a holiday—to research a new TV show, her boss has decided to come with her!
Hannah doesn't want the roguish Bradley Knight with her as her wedding date! How can she act professional with karaoke as the wedding entertainment? She's harbored a secret crush on Bradley since she started her job—so spending the weekend with him is a little too close for comfort. Especially when she finds out he's booked the penthouse suite for them both to share….
#25 The $10,000,000 Texas Wedding
(Excerpt from Granny Dawson's will)
Stop furrowing your brow, Gabe! Don't like the change to my will? Didn't think you would. But someone had to bring you to your senses. You can be so stubborn...
What you thought years ago—that Katie Peters dismissed your love -isn't true. Katie is a wonderful woman who cares about you. Let go of the pain from her rejection. Discover how amazing love is.
You and Katie belong together. And once you indulge in the memories that make you ache, you'll know I'm right. This isn't punishment, Gabe. It's the greatest gift I could leave you. Marry the girl, already!
#26 The 39-Year-Old Virgin
It was a big world out there...
But was ex-nun Claire Santaniello ready for it? Her yearning for a home and family had her shedding her habit and moving back to California. But her true calling definitely wasn't with sexy single dad Caleb McClain. Was it?
The stunning redhead seemed uncomfortable in the crowded bar. She was also tantalizingly familiar. Caleb couldn't believe the girl he'd once loved was now a teacher in their hometown. Soon after he rescued her from the dance floor, Claire made it her mission to bring out his softer side, arousing feelings Caleb couldn't ignore. Was it finally time for them to create the future together they both craved?
#27 Accidental Heiress
As the daughter of a prominent St. Michel head of state, Margeaux Broussard was indeed the girl who'd had everything—except the love of her father. Schoolmate Henri Lejardin was the only one she could count on...for companionship and so much more. At sixteen that "so much more" persuaded her father to send her away. And away she'd stayed, for sixteen years.
Now her father's illness has brought her back. But she's no longer the wild child Henri remembers. Instead she's a beautiful, accomplished woman and, try as he might, he can't resist her. Yet resist he must, because her checkered past might cost him his political future. Except suddenly he can't help envisioning a different future for himself—one with Margeaux by his side....
#28 The Bikini Car Wash
After Andrea Wolkowicz abandons corporate life to help care for her sister, she quickly wears out the want ads in their rust-belt hometown. Time to be her own boss.
Every mogul knows the best idea is an old idea with a new twist. So Andi proudly revives her father's business: an old-fashioned car wash…staffed entirely by bikini-clad women. That ought to get traffic—and blood—flowing on Grosvenor Street!
This gutsy gimmick soon has the whole town in a lather, and not necessarily in a good way.
Scandalized citizens are howling, neighboring businesses are worried. But straitlaced grocery-store owner Pete Guthrie is definitely intrigued. He knows it's hard to run a small business in a big-box world. To him, Andi's brains and bravery are as alluring as the bikini she calls business attire.
#29 Temptation's Kiss
Patrice Sutton has just landed the role of her career. Snagging the female lead opposite devastatingly handsome, six-foot-three movie idol T. K. McKenna is a dream come true. When she learns they'll be filming out West she's secretly thrilled…and ready to show her gorgeous costar the ropes of life on the ranch. Until T.K. turns the tables—by initiating her into the art of seduction far from the camera's glare.
T.K. knows that with her incredible beauty, talent and sweet sincerity, Patrice has what it takes to make it really big. And the burgeoning film star is showing T.K. a passion more real than anything he's ever experienced on—or off—the screen. But what will it take to prove to her that she's the only woman he'll ever desire…and love?
#30 Beneath the Covers
Bestselling author Claudia Madison is single and loving it. And now her book on sex and romance without the ring is being made into a TV show! Then she meets her cohost, Peter Warren. The gorgeous bachelor and leading authority on how to stay happily single—and the man she almost married—is as dangerously irresistible as ever.
The minute he sees Claudia again, Peter's ready for their next heady round of passion. Only this time he isn't letting the girl who got away get away again. His plan is to seduce and win the heart of the fiercely independent writer without getting hurt himself. But as desire reignites, threatening to derail both their careers, Peter's suddenly dreaming of that walk down the aisle…with Claudia.
#31 Pleasure in Hawaii
Gene Malloy is finally ready to get on with his life. And he just may have found the perfect woman to share it with him. From the moment Gene rescues Sloane Hepburn from a rogue wave on the beach, she makes his most passionate fantasies come true. With her sultry beauty and lively spirit, Sloane is turning the divorced Maui B and B owner's life upside down—and he's loving every minute of it….
Relocating to Hawaii is a big step for the overextended career woman. But with hunky, seductive Gene Malloy romancing her under a tropical island sky, how can a woman keep from falling? Now he just has to make her see that their love is here to stay. And that the pleasure is just beginning…
#32 Alaska Bride on the Run
When he advertises for a bartender, Harrison Rowlan doesn't expect a woman in a torn wedding gown to apply! He couldn't save his own wife, but he's determined to protect this damsel in distress.
Willa Somerset desperately needs to find safety and the sleepy Alaskan town of Eagle's Cliff seems like the perfect refuge. Only now she's in danger of falling for her knight in cowboy boots and denim.
#33 The Angel and the Outlaw
He wants her as his bride, but the law wants him! No one asks the dark, brooding stranger about his past. People gossip, but daren't question. He and his young daughter live alone--and that's the way Stuart Taylor wants...needs it to stay. When the spirited new schoolteacher, Rachel Houston, is touched by Stuart's shy little girl, who's never uttered a word, everything starts to change. Stuart's surly manner doesn't worry Rachel--she can see the vulnerability hidden in the depths of his blue eyes. She's convinced there's more to the rugged, handsome stranger's story. But when the truth comes out, has Rachel the courage to stand by her man?
#34 This Side of Heaven
In their almost forty years together, Zoe Wingfield and Spencer Andersen have experienced all the seasons of love.
Yet when the rabble-rousing East Coast hippie and the levelheaded Wisconsin farm boy first met, they couldn't have been more wrong for each other. Nevertheless, the young lovers seized all the possibilities life had to offer and carved out a little slice of heaven on earth--successful careers, service to the public, a beautiful family, a dream home.
Even when the strength of their union was tested, they endured. Two people so different in so many ways, proving that true love can overcome anything.
#35 An Unlikely Match
High-powered lawyer Asher Chatam has no time for love. He's far too busy with his career. Then his eccentric aunts summon him to Chatam House on urgent business. And introduce him to Ellie Monroe. The beautiful young teacher needs his help, and one look at her violet eyes and sunny smile leads Asher to take the case. Ellie's laid-back attitude is a breath of fresh air in Asher's smoggy world, and soon he realizes that man cannot live on work alone. And that even the most unlikely match can lead to true love.
#36 Remember My Touch
It had always been Mac and Jenny…
Their marriage had been forged by shared dreams, including raising babies on their Texas ranch, and shared troubles—those haunting Mac, the town sheriff. But they'd never doubted they'd be together. Then Mac was killed.
But five years later, when new rumblings of an old problem stir along the border, into town rides Matt Dawson. His rugged face and gentle hands reach a place in Jenny only Mac knew. Who is this man, and why does something in Jenny welcome him home?
#37 Two Weeks to Remember
Nothing exciting ever happened to Charity. Her job as a hospital secretary was hectic but routine. Even the man everyone expected her to marry was safe, reliable and dull. There surely had to be more to life.
So, when professor Jake Wyllie-Lyon offered her the chance to work for him, Charity didn't hesitate to accept. The job was everything she had dreamed of—and so was Jake! But there Charity's problems really began….
#38 For Business… Or Marriage
She'd always been in love with her boss. Secretly. And it had almost killed Abby Morrison each time magnificent multimillionaire Cade Stone began dating another woman. And now…he wanted her to plan his wedding!
Abby knew Cade was making a mistake—marrying for business reasons a woman equally uninterested in love. For too long she'd been the mousy little secretary. But now she refused to keep quiet. So she had one month to plan Cade's wedding? That gave her one month to change his mind.
#39 Rogue Stallion
"I don't want kindness—or your kind of woman."
Sterling McCallum gave the plain, hard warning to Jessica Larson. The brooding rogue cop had a stone in place of a heart and a past as mysterious as the case that had brought them together. But this time Jessica couldn't back off. Something compelled her to stand her ground and brave the emotions this man had long aroused. Suddenly, their darkest secrets, their deepest desires, shimmered to the surface…about to explode.
#40 Code Name: Bikini
Ex-cop Gina Ryan traded in her Smith & Wesson to follow a dream. Now she's creating decadent desserts aboard a luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean. But a gorgeous passenger is about to send her perfect world up in smoke….
Trace O'Halloran is a hard-edged navy SEAL, under strict orders to take some high seas R & R. There's a shipload of women in bikinis eager to help him unwind, so why can't he take his mind off the stubborn pastry chef with an attitude the size of Montana?
When a dangerous assassin from Trace's past appears, Gina and Trace must join forces to save the ship's guests. The clock's ticking, and they'll need every weapon at hand—from body armor to chocolate ganache!
#41 Shadows from the Past
When photojournalist Kamaria Trayhern goes undercover at the Mason family ranch, she's hoping to find her real father, not romance. But keeping everyone convinced she is who she claims to be will be harder than she expects—especially where one sexy ranch hand is concerned.
After all he's been through, there's no way Wesley Sheridan wants to tangle with more heartache and lies. So the last thing he needs is to be drawn to the pretty new caretaker. But with a jealous killer out to rewrite Mason family history forever, two lonely hearts must learn to trust each other…if they hope to survive the season.
#42 The Devil of Rancho Diablo
Like the fabled Diablo mustangs, Jagger Knight had always been untamable. Erin Stewart had learned that the hard way. He'd promised her forever and then enlisted in the army, shipping out to some remote and dangerous location without even a word.
Now it was Erin's turn to be wild—she was on the verge of buying a house and moving out of state. She was done with Diablo, and certainly done with Jagger Knight.
Only Jagger wasn't done with Erin. And now that he was back in town and working at the Callahan ranch, he had the perfect chance to prove that even a devil may care.
#43 The Duke & The Pirate Queen
Aboard her privateering ship, The Seaflower, Captain Imena Leung is the law. Ashore she answers only to her liege, Duke Maxime. They are a powerful couple, with an intense attraction neither can disguise nor deny. As a nobleman, Maxime is destined to wed strategically, so his seductive advances must be purely for pleasure. And what self-respecting pirate denies herself any pleasure?
Their delicious dalliance is prolonged when Imena is forced to abduct Maxime to thwart a political plot against him. At sea, with a stunningly virile man bound and held in her private quarters, Imena can imagine—and enact—any number of intoxicating scenarios.
The heat between captain and captive is matched only by the perils that beset The Seaflower and her crew. Violent storms, marauding corsairs and life-or-death sex games on a desert island—how fortunate for the seemingly insatiable lovers that danger and desire go hand-in-hand.
#44 72 Hours
After being taken hostage, Kate Hamilton had faced her share of pain and confusion. But it was nothing compared to learning undercover agent Parker McCall had come to her rescue. This secretive man with whom she'd once spent long days and hot nights was plotting their escape and telling her to trust him if she wanted to get out alive. His skills when it came to securing her safety were impressive...and incredibly sexy to watch. The closer they got to freedom, the more dangerous the situation became. Which only seemed to heighten the attraction from which there would never be any escape...
#45 Accidental Commando
A Caribbean island...a honeymoon suite...sexy lingerie. Emily Wright has everything for the perfect honeymoon—except a husband! Although her nuptials are off, Emily takes her honeymoon, hoping for peace and quiet. Instead, chaos erupts when a stranger crashes into her suite and tackles her to the ground, protecting her from flying bullets. His chiseled physique sets off a wild desire in Emily.
Delta Force Commando Tyler Matheson wasn't planning on a gorgeous civilian to come between him and the assailant he's chasing. Now he needs her help even though it means jeopardizing her life. Neither of them counts on the very real danger their sizzling chemistry provokes....
#46 Inseparable
Living under Reese Madaris's roof makes LaKenna James the envy of every woman in town. But Reese's offer of a place to stay is strictly platonic—just until Kenna's new condo is completed. He has no idea that his best friend has been attracted to him since college, and Kenna plans to keep it that way.
Ever since his cousin Blade got married, Reese has become Houston's most eligible bachelor—and a magnet for gold diggers. Reese turns to his temporary roommate for dating advice, and suddenly sees Kenna for the beautiful, voluptuous woman she is. Though Kenna's afraid to give her heart to the man who could so easily break it, when her life is in jeopardy, she'll discover just how far a Madaris man will go when love is at stake…
#47 Just for Kicks
Las Vegas showgirl Carly Jacobsen keeps learning the hard way that her idea of fun differs radically from that of her neighbor Wolfgang Jones. Sure, he looks incredible, and he seems to have a thing for her legs, but the man's a robot. So what's with their chemistry?
Wolf has a plan for his life, and it doesn't include finding himself tempted by the freewheeling Carly…mile-high legs or not. Yet in a moment of weakness, the two discover at least one area where they do both have fun. But outside the bedroom the stakes are getting higher, and love might come down to a roll of the dice…
#48 Wild Fling or a Wedding Ring
On her first night in Chicago, Cali McGovern meets seriously sexy surgeon Jake Tyler. Since she's still sore after her last relationship, her head's yelling Run—but her body's screaming for his touch…. For the first time ever, her head gets overruled!
Jake isn't looking for a wife—been there, done that. But his hot new neighbor is in town just long enough for a wild fling…perfect! Yet when the time's up, he can't say goodbye. Is that just because of their sizzling chemistry—or something a whole lot scarier?
#49 Wild Fire
Battling a fire at a friend's house turns into a nightmare when firefighter Shelby Fox becomes the only witness to a murder. Unfortunately, a bad fall at the killer's hands leaves Shelby with traumatic amnesia and plunges her life into danger.
Assigning himself as Shelby's personal protector is Detective Clay Jessup, her best friend and someone she always counted on. But as they work to find the murderer, a fierce desire begins to replace the simple friendship they once saw in each other's eyes.
After all these years, could there finally be something more between them, or are they just flirting with danger?
#50 Still the One
The woman standing in Rafe Blackstock's office was beautiful—unforgettably beautiful—and desperate for his help. But this wasn't just another client who needed a private investigator. This was the only woman he'd ever loved—the one who'd walked away from him without a backward glance, so many years ago....
Kit Foley's troubled younger sister was missing, and she was willing to do anything to find her—even turn to the man she'd spent such a long time trying to forget. But their search for answers was proving to be even more dangerous than she'd feared—because it meant facing the truth of a love that had never died....
#51 A Voice in the Dark
No one knew what Noah Graydon looked like, but they'd all heard the rumors. How he'd been broken, even scarred, on his last case. How he never showed his face…until the day he took an overwhelming interest in one very special agent.
Angel Carter would have been a serial killer's next victim if not for Noah. The rescue gave her a glimpse into his world of shadows—yet she dared to want more. To really know if the passion between them was real. They would have to come face-to-face if the killer was to be caught—and Noah could only conceal his body from Angel for so long....
#52 Kissing the Key Witness
A dying man's last words threatened to reveal the identity of a powerful crime boss, and after hearing them, Dr. Maya Santiago knew her life was in danger. As a killer stalked her, only one man could help....
Homicide lieutenant Stephen Talbot had always wanted Maya. Even though he didn't feel worthy of the compassionate doctor, he was determined to protect her at all costsespecially from himself.
But as he and Maya grew closer...and the killer drew nearer...could she convince him to put his heart on the line as well?
#53 In the Groove
She wouldn't know a NASCAR star if he hit her with his car...and he just did.
Sarah was a kindergarten teacher until a sleazy ex-boyfriend got her fired. Now the only job she can find is driving the motor coach for racing star Lance Cooper. She doesn't know a thing about NASCAR — and she's off to a rocky start when she doesn't recognize her ultra-famous boss.
Lance can't help but notice Sarah's sweet smile — and how seriously unimpressed she is with his fame. Her reaction piques his interest — and he's convinced she's a good-luck charm. But Sarah has no interest in Lance's jet-setting life; she'd rather deal with spitballs than one supersexy race car driver. Too bad whenever he comes near her she turns hot as race fuel.
Soon things begin to heat up on the track, and Sarah begins to wonder if she might be able to teach one famous race car driver a few lessons about love
#54 Dangerous Curves
Special Agent Cece Blackwell is smart, savvy and knows her way around a race car.
Heading up a team to investigate the murder of a NASCAR driver is right up her alley. The only problem is NASCAR star Blain Sanders, the man who requested her. Blain is well-heeled, well connected and drop-dead gorgeous — and he knew Cece when she was a drag-racing tomboy with grease under her nails.
But Cece has grown up since then, in all the right places. And while catching the killer is her main objective, she's not above making the man who ignored her as a teenager squirm a little.
Two people on a surefire collision course. But Cece and Blain are about to discover that the sweetest victory does not always come from winning....
#55 Ragged Rainbows
Mitch Prescott was Shay Kendall's savior. He'd bought her mother's mansion on the Washington coast, a financial albatross that Shay couldn't handle. And now he offered her true financial independence—a dream as seductive as Mitch himself. All she had to do was help him write an exposé on her mother, a former Hollywood star.
It felt disloyal, even though her mother would never know the difference. Once a legend, Rosamond now wasted away in a long-term care facility, clutching a doll she thought was her baby. It would be painful, recalling her mother's fickle love and the worst moments of Shay's life. But it could be the one thing that finally allowed Shay to move forward. And find her own love.
#56 The Tenth Case
Criminal defense attorney Harrison J. Walker, better known as Jaywalker, has just been suspended for using "creative" tactics and receiving "gratitude" in the courtroom stairwell from a client charged with prostitution. Convincing the judge that his other clients are counting on him, Jaywalker is allowed to complete ten cases. But it's the last case that truly tests his abilities—and his acquittal record.
Samara Moss—young, petite and sexy as hell—stabbed her husband in the heart. Or so everyone believes. Having married the elderly billionaire when she was an eighteen-year-old former prostitute, Samara appears to be the cliché gold digger. But Jaywalker knows all too well that appearances can be deceiving. Who else could have killed the billionaire? Has Samara been framed? Or is Jaywalker just driven by his need to win his clients' cases—and this particular client's undying gratitude?
#57 The Prodigal Son
He always gets what he wants—and that's made Matt Sheppard an international success as a vintner. So he never saw his mother's blackmail coming. She says she'll sell the family's vineyard if he doesn't stay put for exactly one year. But running the Diamond Dust with his brothers was his father's dream, not his. Now he's shackled to the place by familial ties as strong as vines and tight enough to strangle him.
Worse, he's forced to work with a resentful manager, Connie Henkel. Her mile-long legs can't distract him from his goal: to improve the business and get out as soon as he can. Because if the single mom entwines herself around Matt's heart, he'll never be able to leave.
#58 The Happy Baker
We've all been there.
The blind date from hell. The Big Hurt.
The guy who details his various surgeries over Caesar salad on the first date.
Who needs a pint of rocky road when you can head to the kitchen and work out your heartache with a whisk and a bottle of wine? Erin Bolger has been there, dated that and baked through it all. Turns out the more bitter the heartbreak, the sweeter the batter. So don't cry over bad dates, bad boyfriends or bad breakups—whip up a batch of My-Mom-Didn't-Like-You-Anyway Cupcakes and bake yourself happy.
#59 The Prince's Chambermaid
Cathy is used to making the beds—not slipping between their sheets! Arrogant Prince Xaviero has one rule: once he's taught Cathy everything he knows, their affair will be over.
But when the King of Zaffirinthos is taken ill, Xaviero is forced to take up his role as prince regent. The voluptuous curves of meek Cathy still haunt his dreams, and he vows to hold this humble maid to his special kind of prince's ransom!
#60 Meddling with a Millionaire
Emma Montgomery wouldn't be manipulated into marriage as part of Daddy's business deal—even if he cut off access to her trust fund until she complied. The talented jewelry designer would just make her own way. Or go down trying. Too bad her intended groom—maverick businessman and former crush Nathan Case—made her stubborn stance so difficult. The heat of his touch had her nearly betraying herself at every turn. Resisting Nathan and regaining her money were the name of the game—but meddling with this millionaire might land her right back in his arms!
#61 Ethan
Arabella Craig had been eighteen when Ethan Hardeman had opened her eyes to passion…and then married another woman. Four years later, tragedy brought Ethan back into her life. He was just as tall and just as handsome, but he was now divorced and embittered, running his family's cattle empire with an iron hand and a big heart. Except when it came to her.
Living day to day with him brought back all the passion… and pain. Ethan was so near, yet he refused to loosen the reins that held back his heart. But Arabella was determined not to let this Long, Tall Texan escape her again….
#62 Fortune's Best Desserts
Atlanta heiress Wendy Fortune was used to being overlooked by the rest of her powerful family. But when a last-ditch job at Red Rock's best restaurant revealed her hidden talents in the kitchen, she was determined to prove to everyone she could handle the pressure. Especially her tall, dark and sexy boss…
Marcos Mendoza had always lived by one rule: never, ever mix business with pleasure. It was bad enough he'd been pressured into hiring pampered playgirl Wendy Fortune. Now he had to fight his growing attraction to his sexy new pastry chef…an attraction Wendy was doing everything to encourage! Maybe a spoonful of sugar was just what the workaholic needed….
#63 Unguarded
Rhiannon Jenkins is an events planner on the rise. And her latest client, Shawn Emerson, could make her career. Too bad the gorgeous man insists on mixing a lot of pleasure with his business. In Rhiannon's books getting involved with a client is the fastest way to exit a job. So, no. She'll resist all his come-get-me looks and tempting offers.
While his charm is easy to overlook, Shawn in the role of confidant and friend breaks down all her best defenses. Suddenly the tables turn and she wants to be close to him. That means opening up about the ugly events of her past—a risk she hasn't taken before now. Oh, but he could be so worth it!
#64 Romancing the Chef
When Veronica Howard is invited to compete in an all-star TV cooking contest, the up-and-coming restaurateur is ready for a fair food fight. Then she discovers who her main competition is: Ace Brown, her friend from culinary school—now the world's hottest celebrity chef. Has she gone from the frying pan right into the fire?
Ace Brown—aka the Sexy Chef—knows what women want. After all, recipes for desire are his globe-trotting specialty. Ronnie may not have given him the time of day back in school, but this time Ace is cooking up a surprise she can't resist. Seducing the voluptuous foodie will be his pleasure…until she turns up the heat. With sexual sparks flying, is the footloose bachelor about to become a connoisseur…of love?
#65 Delicious
Cal Buchanan needs a top-flight chef to take over his failing Seattle restaurant, The Waterfront. He can afford to hire the best in town—the only problem is that the best happens to be his ex-wife, Penny Jackson.
Penny really needs this opportunity, but she doesn't need the distraction of working with her ex. She's sworn off romance—she's even having a baby on her own. But before she knows it, the heat is on…and the attraction between her and Cal moves from a low simmer to a full boil!
The rest should be easy as pie, but a secret from Cal's past could spoil everything. Maybe it's true that too many cooks spoil the broth—or maybe two is enough to make it irresistible.
#66 Northern Escape
Nobody in Good Riddance is wondering how world-class chef Augustina "Gus" Tippens ended up running the local diner. No, but everybody's dying to know the identity of the mysterious, sexy stranger who's eyeing her like she's scrumptious crème brûlée…
Travel journalist Nick Hudson loves coming across the unusual—and the annual Good Riddance Christmoose Parade definitely fits the bill! But his biggest surprise is Gus! When they finally lure each other into bed, the sex is better than chocolate. Way better!
But Gus has a secret…and a complicated, dangerous past. Worse yet, when she discovers the truth about Nick, he might never be allowed to sample her delicious goods again. And with a woman like Gus, one taste just isn't enough….
#67 To Love a Wilde
After winning the coveted Top Young Chef award, Yasmine Taylor is finally going to realize her lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant. But first she's returning home to help her aunt recover from surgery and to plan her own next move. Yasmine has never forgotten her roots growing up on the Wyoming Wilde ranch, or Holt Wilde, her gorgeous teenage crush. He's grown into a sinfully sexy bad boy who's left a trail of broken hearts scattered across the West.
Seeing Yasmine again is like a one-two punch to Holt's heart. Lassoing a steer is nothing compared to the way the sensual city slicker is roping him in. The shy tomboy is now a stunning, successful woman being pursued by powerful men. Can Holt convince her that his rowdy days are over? Is Yas ready to be branded his woman—for now and always?
#68 Secret Agenda
On paper, Vivienne Neal had a lifestyle most people would envy. Only she knows what a sham her marriage really was. So when her politician husband is killed in a hit-and-run accident, she moves to Florida and takes a job as a personal assistant to Diego Cole-Thomas, a powerful CEO with an intimidating reputation.
Vivienne's intelligence and social grace prove invaluable to Diego, and on a business trip to South Carolina's lush Low Country, their business relationship takes a sensual detour. But when threatening letters arrive at Diego's office, he realizes that Vivienne's husband's death was no accident—and that she will meet a similar fate unless they can uncover the scandalous truth together….
#69 Skintight
Professional poker player Jax Gallagher should have known better than to wager a World Series baseball that wasn't his to lose. Now the man who won the collectible is demanding his prize…or else. Trouble is, the ball is owned by his estranged father's widow—a flamboyant Las Vegas showgirl. Jax will do whatever it takes to get it back.
Yet Treena McCall is anything but the ruthless gold digger Jax expects. She's built a life for herself filled with good friends and hard work. And she's got enough on her plate trying to hang on to her job as a dancer without being wined, dined and seduced by sexy Jax Gallagher….
#70 Sizzling
Reid Buchanan was always a fan favorite on the baseball diamond. But between the sheets?
A spiteful article about the former pitcher and current playboy questions his talent in the bedroom. And the newspaper's just the first bad news. Reid's grandmother Gloria's broken hip means she needs constant care—but Reid hired Nurses 1 and 2 for their bedside manner with him. So for Number 3 he chooses Lori Johnson, the first candidate who seems immune to his brand of charm.
Lori's never wasted her time with amoebas like Reid Buchanan. So why are her well-fortified defenses starting to crumble under the force of his sexy smile—and the kindness he shows her at every turn? There's only one explanation for the feelings flaring between them—chemistry. Chemistry so hot, it's sizzling!
#71 Hot Stuff
Annabelle Jordan and her two sisters were orphans in frilly dresses when they went to live with their sports-lawyer uncle in his world of locker rooms, bookies and gambling.
Now the girls are publicists in their uncle's firm, The Hot Zone. Despite her upbringing, Annabelle is all woman. She's naturally drawn to real men—like her latest client, businessman and former football legend Brandon Vaughn.
The chemistry is potent, undeniable, irresistible. Annabelle soon realizes that Brandon is much more than just another jock. And that she'd better hold on tight if she doesn't want to lose her heart.
#72 Here I Am
Born into a real-estate dynasty, Brandt Wainwright chose football over the family business, and now he's a Super Bowl MVP. That streak of good fortune runs out the day Brandt crashes his SUV into a tree. During the long recuperation, the fun-loving quarterback becomes cranky and sullen—until private nurse Ciara Dennison shows up for duty.
Ciara has zero interest in sports, or in tall, blond jocks with overblown egos. She's dated a man in the public eye before, and she's not repeating that mistake. Somehow Brandt keeps breaking down all her defenses, seeing through her facade to the sexy free spirit underneath. But once his recovery is complete, will he return to the celebrity life he knew—or choose the woman who can fulfill his dreams?
#73 I'll Catch You
Cedric Reeves has just been sidelined, and the bad-boy pro footballer suddenly finds himself without an agent or a prayer of getting back in the game. What he needs is someone pulling for him…someone like gorgeous go-getter Payton Mosely.
A media-hounded celebrity like Cedric is just what the ambitious up-and-comer Payton needs to jump-start her career. That's why she's waging a no-holds-barred campaign to land the Saber running back as her first client. But how's the NFL sports agent supposed to keep things strictly professional when Cedric pursues her with a passion no sane woman can resist? Could this sexy bad boy be good for her after all?
#74 Getting Rid of Bradley
Lucy Savage is finally getting rid of Bradley—and his hideous green recliner. Bradley is out of her life for good. Or so she thinks. Turns out Officer Zack Warren wants to arrest the very same Bradley for embezzlement and figures the lovely Lucy can lead him straight to his target.
Good thing there's a cop around. Because someone shoots at Lucy and then blows up her car. Zack insists she needs twenty-four-hour protection. What does he think her three dogs and attack cat are for? Still, he insists on moving right in to Lucy's house.
Now there's danger lurking outside and in her own kitchen, bathroom—and bedroom. Or maybe Zack is just what Lucy needs.…
#75 Strange Bedpersons
Tess Newhart knows her ex-boyfriend Nick Jamieson isn't the right guy for her. He's caviar and champagne; she's take-out Chinese pot stickers. He's an uptight Republican lawyer; she was raised in a commune. He wants to get ahead in business; she just wants…him. But there's no way Tess will play second fiddle to his job.
Yet somehow she finds herself agreeing to play his fiancée on a weekend business trip that could make or break Nick's career. And while he's trying to convince Tess that he needs her in his respectable world, Tess is doing her best to keep her opinions to herself and her hands off Nick.
1. Make sure you understand the rules before claiming.
2. One prompt per person. One person per prompt. The exception being collaborations arranged ahead of time, but only one person in the team should do the claiming.
3. Claims will be first come, first serve in the order they are posted.
4. Prompts will be crossed out as they are claimed.
5. Claiming will close on Sunday, May 29th or when the prompts run out, whichever happens first. If there is interest, an additional round of prompts posted on Monday, May 30th. That round will close for claiming on June 1st, at which time claiming is closed.
6. Please use the claiming template below. You only need to list the prompt # in your choices.
#1 Saving Grace
If ever Grace Benson needs a man to ride to her rescue, now is the time—and Kansas preacher Simon Grafton is the man! When he encounters her on the roadside being brutally attacked by her uncle's farmhand, Simon doesn't flinch. He'll risk anything to defend this innocent from the madman who's still at large.
As Simon helps her heal and gain a new foothold in life, it becomes clear that his heart is what needs defending. Soon his only course of action is to make her his bride….
Callahan Cowboys are bachelors for life! That is, until Pete Callahan's wily aunt delivers her ultimatum. The first Callahan to marry and have children—the more kids the better—wins the family ranch.
Like his five brothers, Pete never considered himself the marrying kind. And that's just fine with Jackie Samuels, a hardworking nurse who seems perfectly happy with her and Pete's Saturday-night arrangement. Until she realizes she wants something more from the hunky, footloose rancher. Like a father for the triplets she just found out she's having.
Pete couldn't be more delighted. He's suddenly got an instant family. Jackie's the only obstacle to their happy ending—she refuses to marry him. But maybe she knows the best way to land a cowboy is playing hard to get!
Texas is a long way from Oregon, but Amanda Allen isn't planning to make her stay in Brody's Crossing permanent. All she wants is to meet the brothers she only recently discovered she had and head back out—mission accomplished. But what to do about Leo Casale? The tempting Texan is doing his level best to make her feel right at home.
Leo is completely captivated by the stranger with secret! written all over her. He wants to help her, but Amanda refuses to confide in him. Does she have to be so stubborn and independent?
Things are happening way too fast. Suddenly, Amanda has a whole new family to get to know, including a certain irresistible charmer who's making her believe that she belongs here, too!
Protecting the citizens of Safe Harbor is what gets cop-turned-P.I. Patty Hartman up in the morning. So how can she say no to a four-year-old who needs her help? Even if domestic detail isn't Patty's strong suit. Even if the little girl's father happens to be Dr. Alec Denny, the man Patty's loved since she was seventeen.
Alec came home to California for his career, but safeguarding his daughter's future trumps everything else. Hiring his high school sweetheart as her bodyguard is risky, especially with all that unfinished business between them.
With her maternal instincts—and a few other hot emotions—kicking in, Patty's got some serious soul-searching to do. It's not a choice between love and duty. It's about not letting the guy who broke her heart become the one who got away…again!
Rugged, rough and rowdy, Jarred Riddell is everything a cowboy should be. That's the problem. 'Cause Jarred has set his sights on a pretty lil' socialite who has no use for his unrefined ways. Luckily, he has a plan: get the local librarian to whip him into charm-school shape and that city gal will fall right into his gentlemanly arms.
But coconspirator Serena Higgens has more on her mind than proper manners. She's pined for years after the sweet, hardworking rancher who lacks a bit of polish. To earn some much-needed cash, she'll put her feelings aside and give Jarred a crash course in respectability. Besides, throwing out mud-caked boots and correcting double negatives should help Serena get over her crush. It's the perfect situation…until Jarred adds kissing to the lesson plan!
Deputy Joe Lone Wolf never would've guessed that helping someone at the side of the road in a thunderstorm would throw his carefully controlled world into a tailspin. But that's exactly what happens when he realizes the sexy "stranger" is his childhood best friend, Ramona. He's spent years convincing himself that she deserves more than a former rebel with a scarred past. But all it takes is one stormy night in a deserted cabin with Ramona to make the fierce lawman change his mind.
Falling for Joe is a risk veterinarian Ramona Santiago knows she shouldn't take. Everyone she's trusted has let her down and left her alone…except him. Can she possibly hope that she and Joe were always meant to be more than friends?
Michael Morgan is a man who always gets what he wants, and he wants The Whiskey Sour. The run-down bar would be perfect for his newest business venture…if it was for sale. Convincing the feisty redhead who owns the pub to sell will be tough, but ignoring his deep attraction to her could be nearly impossible.
Jess Bennett knows that Michael's offer could solve all her financial woes, but The Whiskey Sour is her last connection to her beloved grandfather. When she refuses to sell, she expects Michael to disappear. Instead, he invites her into his family and his life. Now the woman who always had a hard time trusting men is suddenly having an even harder time trusting herself around this seductive entrepreneur.
Is it safe for Jess to mix business with pleasure, or will she lose the bar…and her heart?
You Can't Miss What You've Never Had. That's the philosophy Claire Hannaford's always followed. Orphaned shortly after her birth, Claire's never had a family—and she's convinced herself she doesn't need one. Being on her own means she's free to take nursing posts wherever and whenever she wants.
Her latest assignment brings her to the Parker Ranch to care for ailing Mae Parker, the clan's formidable matriarch. Claire's never seen a close-knit family like this one, and it reminds her that she's on the outside looking in. Tanner Reid, a member of the extended family, feels he's as much an outsider as Claire and reaches out to her.
Before long, Claire realizes that Tanner and the rest of the Parkers have given her the home she's never had. And as the time to go draws near, Claire wonders how she can possibly leave her heart behind.
Responding to a 911 call, Whitehorse Deputy Halley Robinson is stunned to find herself face-to-face with her teenage crush, Colton Chisholm. The schoolboy who had teased her is now a strong and sexy man—and he's on a mission to solve a case! But if he plans on unmasking a killer, he's going to need her help.
Colton can no longer run from the truth…someone in his small town has gotten away with murder. Now it's up to him to bring the killer to justice—with the help of local authorities, which, to his surprise, include Halley. The girl who had once idolized him is now a woman he must fight to resist. But as they work on the case, the attraction between them only grows stronger. Their rocky past may lead to a future together…unless the killer parts them forever.
Impoverished husband-hunter Kitty Wythenshawe knows what she must achieve by the end of her London Season—marriage to a wealthy gentleman will save her mother from a life of drudgery. After all, love doesn't pay the bills.
Wealthy landowner Daniel Blackwood is proud to be an industrialist, even if it means he's not quite what the ton expects. And as for young ladies like Kitty, who care only for a man's fortune, well, they just ought not to feel so temptingly irresistible when you kiss them….
Charles Mountford, Marquis of Tonbridge, has long felt the weight of responsibility. He knows he must do his duty and take a wife. But when he's left snowbound with the unconventional Miss Honor Meredith Draycott, he finds that his inner rogue wants to come out to play....
Merry doesn't need a man—no matter how handsome he is! Sadly, society takes a different view. Charlie is more than happy to make her socially acceptable, but only if she acts publicly as his betrothed and privately as his mistress!
Bride-to-be Abigail Callahan has her life mapped out. Good career, wealthy fiancé—it's perfect...too perfect. Then sexy bad-boy-turned-cop Raff Finn reenters Abby's life, landing her with an adorable homeless dog called Kleppy and a whole lot of trouble....
Raff's teenage recklessness once broke them apart, but he's not about to let his childhood sweetheart marry the wrong guy. With help from Kleppy and some Banksia Bay magic, Raff plans to reawaken the Abby he's always loved.
The things she had to do to save her family business! Emily Quest had dressed to the nines and gone to an awful party, where she'd been rescued by a handsome stranger.
Despite the sizzling attraction between them, Emily never thought she'd see him again. But now he's right in front of her, as gorgeous as ever! Ethan West thinks Emily is a rapacious good-time girl, and he's about to make her face the consequences--in his bed!
For three years, Kalera has been a model secretary to Duncan Royal, with only one hiccup in their otherwise perfect relationship: a one-night stand that should never have happened, and which both have tried to forget. Or so Kalera thought.
But Duncan is haunted by their one night of unbelievable passion, and secretly longs for their relationship to develop after office hours. As a rule, he can have any woman he wants—so he's furious when Kalera announces her engagement to another man! Whatever it takes, Duncan intends to entice her into his bed once more—and this time it will be forever.
#15 24 Karat Ammunition
Langston Collingsworth was a man to be reckoned with. Powerful and president of the family oil business, opportunists looked at him and saw money, but he saw the land as his life force. So when the Collingsworth empire was threatened--it was personal.
It happened innocently enough--a young girl needing his help. But her mother was none other than Trish Edwards--Langston’s high school sweetheart. Trish and her daughter were trapped in a blackmail and murder investigation and had been on the run since the day Trish gave birth to a Collingsworth heir.
Could Langston trust Trish after the years of deception? He had no choice if he wanted to protect her child--his child--and face down the trouble headed their way.
#16 Sweet Persuasions
Settling down isn't high on Xavier Eaton's list—he's having too much fun playing the field, sharing his bed but never his heart. All that changes when the high-ranking military man and longtime bachelor comes back to South Carolina and walks into Selena Yates's tantalizing patisserie....
Charleston is a long way from Selena's West Virginia mining hometown. And the gorgeous Eaton war hero isn't like anyone the wary chocolatier has ever met. Xavier's kisses spark desire...and a powerful yearning to belong to him. As his kisses heat up the sultry Southern nights, Selena is tempted to say "I do" to a lifetime of passion. But is she ready to take her rightful place among the Eaton women as Xavier's beloved and adored bride?
#17 Nurse Bride, Bayside Wedding
Dr. Ed Tremayne hasn't been home for a long time. Now he's back—and he's needed! A virus outbreak on a stranded cruise ship in Penhally Bay is threatening lives. Lives that Ed can save—but only if he can put his traumatic past behind him. With the ship's nurse at his side, he begins to think he can do anything….
The chemistry between Ed and nurse Madeleine Granger is undeniable. If they can overcome the past together, maybe then Ed can look to the present and see the bride standing before his eyes.
Race car driver Eli Ward is happiest behind the wheel…when he isn't being pursued by too many eligible females. But ever since he asked Jennifer Ashby to pose as his girlfriend, the happy-go-lucky racing star has eyes only for her. Except Jen's no starry-eyed fan. If Eli wants to win this race, he'll have to show her that their fantasy romance is the real thing….
Billionaire businessman Quinn Parrish is used to women falling at his feet. But when pregnant hairstylist Daisy Brookshire faints right in front of him, his life changes overnight. Getting the wary mother-to-be to trust him will take some fancy footwork…especially if he wants to convince her that he's the husband she needs.
When did Sadie Beecham get those curves? She'd always been the geek next door, his baby sister Meg's brainy best friend. Smart, sure. But hot? He never would have imagined it…before. Now, Trey Kincaid's imagining all sorts of things. And none of them has to do with Sadie's gifted mind.
A mind, he discovers, she's clearly lost. Because she thinks she's in love with Meg's fiancé. And that's an obsession he's determined to put an end to—one way or the other.
#21 Honeymoon with the Rancher
Tomas Mendoza left the city behind when he retreated to a rustic Argentine ranching guesthouse after losing his fiancée. He has found peace working the land…until socialite Sophia Hollingsworth plants her stilettos in front of him and demands to stay the week.
Sophia is nursing private hurts of her own—after all, she is on her honeymoon…alone. Her bravado is a cover act to show everyone she can stand on her own two feet. Trouble is, she's in danger of being swept away into the rancher's arms!
Being housekeeper to crime writer Cameron Travers should be a pretty simple, safe job—just what Lally Douglas wants. Once burned, forever shy Lally wants to blend into the background.
Cameron Travers is attractive, intelligent, fun and very charming! Soon Lally wants to wear all colors of the rainbow and embrace life. Most of all she wants Cameron to notice her, in that way.
When glittering socialite Jade Beacham's life falls apart, she's determined to make a completely fresh start. Packing away her designer wardrobe, she heads out to the arctic splendor of Alaska to become deliciously dangerous Rhys Cartwright's newest—and feistiest—employee….
Expecting a high-maintenance princess, Rhys finds Jade's enthusiasm and natural beauty surprising…and outrageously enticing! If working together is wicked torture, then giving in to temptation is worse—as their blistering night together plays havoc with Rhys's strict "one night only" rule….
Hannah couldn't wait to get back home for her sister's wedding. But it's hardly a holiday—to research a new TV show, her boss has decided to come with her!
Hannah doesn't want the roguish Bradley Knight with her as her wedding date! How can she act professional with karaoke as the wedding entertainment? She's harbored a secret crush on Bradley since she started her job—so spending the weekend with him is a little too close for comfort. Especially when she finds out he's booked the penthouse suite for them both to share….
(Excerpt from Granny Dawson's will)
Stop furrowing your brow, Gabe! Don't like the change to my will? Didn't think you would. But someone had to bring you to your senses. You can be so stubborn...
What you thought years ago—that Katie Peters dismissed your love -isn't true. Katie is a wonderful woman who cares about you. Let go of the pain from her rejection. Discover how amazing love is.
You and Katie belong together. And once you indulge in the memories that make you ache, you'll know I'm right. This isn't punishment, Gabe. It's the greatest gift I could leave you. Marry the girl, already!
It was a big world out there...
But was ex-nun Claire Santaniello ready for it? Her yearning for a home and family had her shedding her habit and moving back to California. But her true calling definitely wasn't with sexy single dad Caleb McClain. Was it?
The stunning redhead seemed uncomfortable in the crowded bar. She was also tantalizingly familiar. Caleb couldn't believe the girl he'd once loved was now a teacher in their hometown. Soon after he rescued her from the dance floor, Claire made it her mission to bring out his softer side, arousing feelings Caleb couldn't ignore. Was it finally time for them to create the future together they both craved?
#27 Accidental Heiress
As the daughter of a prominent St. Michel head of state, Margeaux Broussard was indeed the girl who'd had everything—except the love of her father. Schoolmate Henri Lejardin was the only one she could count on...for companionship and so much more. At sixteen that "so much more" persuaded her father to send her away. And away she'd stayed, for sixteen years.
Now her father's illness has brought her back. But she's no longer the wild child Henri remembers. Instead she's a beautiful, accomplished woman and, try as he might, he can't resist her. Yet resist he must, because her checkered past might cost him his political future. Except suddenly he can't help envisioning a different future for himself—one with Margeaux by his side....
After Andrea Wolkowicz abandons corporate life to help care for her sister, she quickly wears out the want ads in their rust-belt hometown. Time to be her own boss.
Every mogul knows the best idea is an old idea with a new twist. So Andi proudly revives her father's business: an old-fashioned car wash…staffed entirely by bikini-clad women. That ought to get traffic—and blood—flowing on Grosvenor Street!
This gutsy gimmick soon has the whole town in a lather, and not necessarily in a good way.
Scandalized citizens are howling, neighboring businesses are worried. But straitlaced grocery-store owner Pete Guthrie is definitely intrigued. He knows it's hard to run a small business in a big-box world. To him, Andi's brains and bravery are as alluring as the bikini she calls business attire.
Patrice Sutton has just landed the role of her career. Snagging the female lead opposite devastatingly handsome, six-foot-three movie idol T. K. McKenna is a dream come true. When she learns they'll be filming out West she's secretly thrilled…and ready to show her gorgeous costar the ropes of life on the ranch. Until T.K. turns the tables—by initiating her into the art of seduction far from the camera's glare.
T.K. knows that with her incredible beauty, talent and sweet sincerity, Patrice has what it takes to make it really big. And the burgeoning film star is showing T.K. a passion more real than anything he's ever experienced on—or off—the screen. But what will it take to prove to her that she's the only woman he'll ever desire…and love?
Bestselling author Claudia Madison is single and loving it. And now her book on sex and romance without the ring is being made into a TV show! Then she meets her cohost, Peter Warren. The gorgeous bachelor and leading authority on how to stay happily single—and the man she almost married—is as dangerously irresistible as ever.
The minute he sees Claudia again, Peter's ready for their next heady round of passion. Only this time he isn't letting the girl who got away get away again. His plan is to seduce and win the heart of the fiercely independent writer without getting hurt himself. But as desire reignites, threatening to derail both their careers, Peter's suddenly dreaming of that walk down the aisle…with Claudia.
Gene Malloy is finally ready to get on with his life. And he just may have found the perfect woman to share it with him. From the moment Gene rescues Sloane Hepburn from a rogue wave on the beach, she makes his most passionate fantasies come true. With her sultry beauty and lively spirit, Sloane is turning the divorced Maui B and B owner's life upside down—and he's loving every minute of it….
Relocating to Hawaii is a big step for the overextended career woman. But with hunky, seductive Gene Malloy romancing her under a tropical island sky, how can a woman keep from falling? Now he just has to make her see that their love is here to stay. And that the pleasure is just beginning…
When he advertises for a bartender, Harrison Rowlan doesn't expect a woman in a torn wedding gown to apply! He couldn't save his own wife, but he's determined to protect this damsel in distress.
Willa Somerset desperately needs to find safety and the sleepy Alaskan town of Eagle's Cliff seems like the perfect refuge. Only now she's in danger of falling for her knight in cowboy boots and denim.
He wants her as his bride, but the law wants him! No one asks the dark, brooding stranger about his past. People gossip, but daren't question. He and his young daughter live alone--and that's the way Stuart Taylor wants...needs it to stay. When the spirited new schoolteacher, Rachel Houston, is touched by Stuart's shy little girl, who's never uttered a word, everything starts to change. Stuart's surly manner doesn't worry Rachel--she can see the vulnerability hidden in the depths of his blue eyes. She's convinced there's more to the rugged, handsome stranger's story. But when the truth comes out, has Rachel the courage to stand by her man?
#34 This Side of Heaven
In their almost forty years together, Zoe Wingfield and Spencer Andersen have experienced all the seasons of love.
Yet when the rabble-rousing East Coast hippie and the levelheaded Wisconsin farm boy first met, they couldn't have been more wrong for each other. Nevertheless, the young lovers seized all the possibilities life had to offer and carved out a little slice of heaven on earth--successful careers, service to the public, a beautiful family, a dream home.
Even when the strength of their union was tested, they endured. Two people so different in so many ways, proving that true love can overcome anything.
High-powered lawyer Asher Chatam has no time for love. He's far too busy with his career. Then his eccentric aunts summon him to Chatam House on urgent business. And introduce him to Ellie Monroe. The beautiful young teacher needs his help, and one look at her violet eyes and sunny smile leads Asher to take the case. Ellie's laid-back attitude is a breath of fresh air in Asher's smoggy world, and soon he realizes that man cannot live on work alone. And that even the most unlikely match can lead to true love.
It had always been Mac and Jenny…
Their marriage had been forged by shared dreams, including raising babies on their Texas ranch, and shared troubles—those haunting Mac, the town sheriff. But they'd never doubted they'd be together. Then Mac was killed.
But five years later, when new rumblings of an old problem stir along the border, into town rides Matt Dawson. His rugged face and gentle hands reach a place in Jenny only Mac knew. Who is this man, and why does something in Jenny welcome him home?
Nothing exciting ever happened to Charity. Her job as a hospital secretary was hectic but routine. Even the man everyone expected her to marry was safe, reliable and dull. There surely had to be more to life.
So, when professor Jake Wyllie-Lyon offered her the chance to work for him, Charity didn't hesitate to accept. The job was everything she had dreamed of—and so was Jake! But there Charity's problems really began….
She'd always been in love with her boss. Secretly. And it had almost killed Abby Morrison each time magnificent multimillionaire Cade Stone began dating another woman. And now…he wanted her to plan his wedding!
Abby knew Cade was making a mistake—marrying for business reasons a woman equally uninterested in love. For too long she'd been the mousy little secretary. But now she refused to keep quiet. So she had one month to plan Cade's wedding? That gave her one month to change his mind.
"I don't want kindness—or your kind of woman."
Sterling McCallum gave the plain, hard warning to Jessica Larson. The brooding rogue cop had a stone in place of a heart and a past as mysterious as the case that had brought them together. But this time Jessica couldn't back off. Something compelled her to stand her ground and brave the emotions this man had long aroused. Suddenly, their darkest secrets, their deepest desires, shimmered to the surface…about to explode.
Ex-cop Gina Ryan traded in her Smith & Wesson to follow a dream. Now she's creating decadent desserts aboard a luxury cruise ship in the Caribbean. But a gorgeous passenger is about to send her perfect world up in smoke….
Trace O'Halloran is a hard-edged navy SEAL, under strict orders to take some high seas R & R. There's a shipload of women in bikinis eager to help him unwind, so why can't he take his mind off the stubborn pastry chef with an attitude the size of Montana?
When a dangerous assassin from Trace's past appears, Gina and Trace must join forces to save the ship's guests. The clock's ticking, and they'll need every weapon at hand—from body armor to chocolate ganache!
When photojournalist Kamaria Trayhern goes undercover at the Mason family ranch, she's hoping to find her real father, not romance. But keeping everyone convinced she is who she claims to be will be harder than she expects—especially where one sexy ranch hand is concerned.
After all he's been through, there's no way Wesley Sheridan wants to tangle with more heartache and lies. So the last thing he needs is to be drawn to the pretty new caretaker. But with a jealous killer out to rewrite Mason family history forever, two lonely hearts must learn to trust each other…if they hope to survive the season.
Like the fabled Diablo mustangs, Jagger Knight had always been untamable. Erin Stewart had learned that the hard way. He'd promised her forever and then enlisted in the army, shipping out to some remote and dangerous location without even a word.
Now it was Erin's turn to be wild—she was on the verge of buying a house and moving out of state. She was done with Diablo, and certainly done with Jagger Knight.
Only Jagger wasn't done with Erin. And now that he was back in town and working at the Callahan ranch, he had the perfect chance to prove that even a devil may care.
#43 The Duke & The Pirate Queen
Aboard her privateering ship, The Seaflower, Captain Imena Leung is the law. Ashore she answers only to her liege, Duke Maxime. They are a powerful couple, with an intense attraction neither can disguise nor deny. As a nobleman, Maxime is destined to wed strategically, so his seductive advances must be purely for pleasure. And what self-respecting pirate denies herself any pleasure?
Their delicious dalliance is prolonged when Imena is forced to abduct Maxime to thwart a political plot against him. At sea, with a stunningly virile man bound and held in her private quarters, Imena can imagine—and enact—any number of intoxicating scenarios.
The heat between captain and captive is matched only by the perils that beset The Seaflower and her crew. Violent storms, marauding corsairs and life-or-death sex games on a desert island—how fortunate for the seemingly insatiable lovers that danger and desire go hand-in-hand.
After being taken hostage, Kate Hamilton had faced her share of pain and confusion. But it was nothing compared to learning undercover agent Parker McCall had come to her rescue. This secretive man with whom she'd once spent long days and hot nights was plotting their escape and telling her to trust him if she wanted to get out alive. His skills when it came to securing her safety were impressive...and incredibly sexy to watch. The closer they got to freedom, the more dangerous the situation became. Which only seemed to heighten the attraction from which there would never be any escape...
A Caribbean island...a honeymoon suite...sexy lingerie. Emily Wright has everything for the perfect honeymoon—except a husband! Although her nuptials are off, Emily takes her honeymoon, hoping for peace and quiet. Instead, chaos erupts when a stranger crashes into her suite and tackles her to the ground, protecting her from flying bullets. His chiseled physique sets off a wild desire in Emily.
Delta Force Commando Tyler Matheson wasn't planning on a gorgeous civilian to come between him and the assailant he's chasing. Now he needs her help even though it means jeopardizing her life. Neither of them counts on the very real danger their sizzling chemistry provokes....
Living under Reese Madaris's roof makes LaKenna James the envy of every woman in town. But Reese's offer of a place to stay is strictly platonic—just until Kenna's new condo is completed. He has no idea that his best friend has been attracted to him since college, and Kenna plans to keep it that way.
Ever since his cousin Blade got married, Reese has become Houston's most eligible bachelor—and a magnet for gold diggers. Reese turns to his temporary roommate for dating advice, and suddenly sees Kenna for the beautiful, voluptuous woman she is. Though Kenna's afraid to give her heart to the man who could so easily break it, when her life is in jeopardy, she'll discover just how far a Madaris man will go when love is at stake…
Las Vegas showgirl Carly Jacobsen keeps learning the hard way that her idea of fun differs radically from that of her neighbor Wolfgang Jones. Sure, he looks incredible, and he seems to have a thing for her legs, but the man's a robot. So what's with their chemistry?
Wolf has a plan for his life, and it doesn't include finding himself tempted by the freewheeling Carly…mile-high legs or not. Yet in a moment of weakness, the two discover at least one area where they do both have fun. But outside the bedroom the stakes are getting higher, and love might come down to a roll of the dice…
On her first night in Chicago, Cali McGovern meets seriously sexy surgeon Jake Tyler. Since she's still sore after her last relationship, her head's yelling Run—but her body's screaming for his touch…. For the first time ever, her head gets overruled!
Jake isn't looking for a wife—been there, done that. But his hot new neighbor is in town just long enough for a wild fling…perfect! Yet when the time's up, he can't say goodbye. Is that just because of their sizzling chemistry—or something a whole lot scarier?
Battling a fire at a friend's house turns into a nightmare when firefighter Shelby Fox becomes the only witness to a murder. Unfortunately, a bad fall at the killer's hands leaves Shelby with traumatic amnesia and plunges her life into danger.
Assigning himself as Shelby's personal protector is Detective Clay Jessup, her best friend and someone she always counted on. But as they work to find the murderer, a fierce desire begins to replace the simple friendship they once saw in each other's eyes.
After all these years, could there finally be something more between them, or are they just flirting with danger?
The woman standing in Rafe Blackstock's office was beautiful—unforgettably beautiful—and desperate for his help. But this wasn't just another client who needed a private investigator. This was the only woman he'd ever loved—the one who'd walked away from him without a backward glance, so many years ago....
Kit Foley's troubled younger sister was missing, and she was willing to do anything to find her—even turn to the man she'd spent such a long time trying to forget. But their search for answers was proving to be even more dangerous than she'd feared—because it meant facing the truth of a love that had never died....
No one knew what Noah Graydon looked like, but they'd all heard the rumors. How he'd been broken, even scarred, on his last case. How he never showed his face…until the day he took an overwhelming interest in one very special agent.
Angel Carter would have been a serial killer's next victim if not for Noah. The rescue gave her a glimpse into his world of shadows—yet she dared to want more. To really know if the passion between them was real. They would have to come face-to-face if the killer was to be caught—and Noah could only conceal his body from Angel for so long....
A dying man's last words threatened to reveal the identity of a powerful crime boss, and after hearing them, Dr. Maya Santiago knew her life was in danger. As a killer stalked her, only one man could help....
Homicide lieutenant Stephen Talbot had always wanted Maya. Even though he didn't feel worthy of the compassionate doctor, he was determined to protect her at all costsespecially from himself.
But as he and Maya grew closer...and the killer drew nearer...could she convince him to put his heart on the line as well?
#53 In the Groove
She wouldn't know a NASCAR star if he hit her with his car...and he just did.
Sarah was a kindergarten teacher until a sleazy ex-boyfriend got her fired. Now the only job she can find is driving the motor coach for racing star Lance Cooper. She doesn't know a thing about NASCAR — and she's off to a rocky start when she doesn't recognize her ultra-famous boss.
Lance can't help but notice Sarah's sweet smile — and how seriously unimpressed she is with his fame. Her reaction piques his interest — and he's convinced she's a good-luck charm. But Sarah has no interest in Lance's jet-setting life; she'd rather deal with spitballs than one supersexy race car driver. Too bad whenever he comes near her she turns hot as race fuel.
Soon things begin to heat up on the track, and Sarah begins to wonder if she might be able to teach one famous race car driver a few lessons about love
#54 Dangerous Curves
Special Agent Cece Blackwell is smart, savvy and knows her way around a race car.
Heading up a team to investigate the murder of a NASCAR driver is right up her alley. The only problem is NASCAR star Blain Sanders, the man who requested her. Blain is well-heeled, well connected and drop-dead gorgeous — and he knew Cece when she was a drag-racing tomboy with grease under her nails.
But Cece has grown up since then, in all the right places. And while catching the killer is her main objective, she's not above making the man who ignored her as a teenager squirm a little.
Two people on a surefire collision course. But Cece and Blain are about to discover that the sweetest victory does not always come from winning....
#55 Ragged Rainbows
Mitch Prescott was Shay Kendall's savior. He'd bought her mother's mansion on the Washington coast, a financial albatross that Shay couldn't handle. And now he offered her true financial independence—a dream as seductive as Mitch himself. All she had to do was help him write an exposé on her mother, a former Hollywood star.
It felt disloyal, even though her mother would never know the difference. Once a legend, Rosamond now wasted away in a long-term care facility, clutching a doll she thought was her baby. It would be painful, recalling her mother's fickle love and the worst moments of Shay's life. But it could be the one thing that finally allowed Shay to move forward. And find her own love.
Criminal defense attorney Harrison J. Walker, better known as Jaywalker, has just been suspended for using "creative" tactics and receiving "gratitude" in the courtroom stairwell from a client charged with prostitution. Convincing the judge that his other clients are counting on him, Jaywalker is allowed to complete ten cases. But it's the last case that truly tests his abilities—and his acquittal record.
Samara Moss—young, petite and sexy as hell—stabbed her husband in the heart. Or so everyone believes. Having married the elderly billionaire when she was an eighteen-year-old former prostitute, Samara appears to be the cliché gold digger. But Jaywalker knows all too well that appearances can be deceiving. Who else could have killed the billionaire? Has Samara been framed? Or is Jaywalker just driven by his need to win his clients' cases—and this particular client's undying gratitude?
He always gets what he wants—and that's made Matt Sheppard an international success as a vintner. So he never saw his mother's blackmail coming. She says she'll sell the family's vineyard if he doesn't stay put for exactly one year. But running the Diamond Dust with his brothers was his father's dream, not his. Now he's shackled to the place by familial ties as strong as vines and tight enough to strangle him.
Worse, he's forced to work with a resentful manager, Connie Henkel. Her mile-long legs can't distract him from his goal: to improve the business and get out as soon as he can. Because if the single mom entwines herself around Matt's heart, he'll never be able to leave.
We've all been there.
The blind date from hell. The Big Hurt.
The guy who details his various surgeries over Caesar salad on the first date.
Who needs a pint of rocky road when you can head to the kitchen and work out your heartache with a whisk and a bottle of wine? Erin Bolger has been there, dated that and baked through it all. Turns out the more bitter the heartbreak, the sweeter the batter. So don't cry over bad dates, bad boyfriends or bad breakups—whip up a batch of My-Mom-Didn't-Like-You-Anyway Cupcakes and bake yourself happy.
Cathy is used to making the beds—not slipping between their sheets! Arrogant Prince Xaviero has one rule: once he's taught Cathy everything he knows, their affair will be over.
But when the King of Zaffirinthos is taken ill, Xaviero is forced to take up his role as prince regent. The voluptuous curves of meek Cathy still haunt his dreams, and he vows to hold this humble maid to his special kind of prince's ransom!
#60 Meddling with a Millionaire
Emma Montgomery wouldn't be manipulated into marriage as part of Daddy's business deal—even if he cut off access to her trust fund until she complied. The talented jewelry designer would just make her own way. Or go down trying. Too bad her intended groom—maverick businessman and former crush Nathan Case—made her stubborn stance so difficult. The heat of his touch had her nearly betraying herself at every turn. Resisting Nathan and regaining her money were the name of the game—but meddling with this millionaire might land her right back in his arms!
Arabella Craig had been eighteen when Ethan Hardeman had opened her eyes to passion…and then married another woman. Four years later, tragedy brought Ethan back into her life. He was just as tall and just as handsome, but he was now divorced and embittered, running his family's cattle empire with an iron hand and a big heart. Except when it came to her.
Living day to day with him brought back all the passion… and pain. Ethan was so near, yet he refused to loosen the reins that held back his heart. But Arabella was determined not to let this Long, Tall Texan escape her again….
#62 Fortune's Best Desserts
Atlanta heiress Wendy Fortune was used to being overlooked by the rest of her powerful family. But when a last-ditch job at Red Rock's best restaurant revealed her hidden talents in the kitchen, she was determined to prove to everyone she could handle the pressure. Especially her tall, dark and sexy boss…
Marcos Mendoza had always lived by one rule: never, ever mix business with pleasure. It was bad enough he'd been pressured into hiring pampered playgirl Wendy Fortune. Now he had to fight his growing attraction to his sexy new pastry chef…an attraction Wendy was doing everything to encourage! Maybe a spoonful of sugar was just what the workaholic needed….
Rhiannon Jenkins is an events planner on the rise. And her latest client, Shawn Emerson, could make her career. Too bad the gorgeous man insists on mixing a lot of pleasure with his business. In Rhiannon's books getting involved with a client is the fastest way to exit a job. So, no. She'll resist all his come-get-me looks and tempting offers.
While his charm is easy to overlook, Shawn in the role of confidant and friend breaks down all her best defenses. Suddenly the tables turn and she wants to be close to him. That means opening up about the ugly events of her past—a risk she hasn't taken before now. Oh, but he could be so worth it!
#64 Romancing the Chef
When Veronica Howard is invited to compete in an all-star TV cooking contest, the up-and-coming restaurateur is ready for a fair food fight. Then she discovers who her main competition is: Ace Brown, her friend from culinary school—now the world's hottest celebrity chef. Has she gone from the frying pan right into the fire?
Ace Brown—aka the Sexy Chef—knows what women want. After all, recipes for desire are his globe-trotting specialty. Ronnie may not have given him the time of day back in school, but this time Ace is cooking up a surprise she can't resist. Seducing the voluptuous foodie will be his pleasure…until she turns up the heat. With sexual sparks flying, is the footloose bachelor about to become a connoisseur…of love?
#65 Delicious
Cal Buchanan needs a top-flight chef to take over his failing Seattle restaurant, The Waterfront. He can afford to hire the best in town—the only problem is that the best happens to be his ex-wife, Penny Jackson.
Penny really needs this opportunity, but she doesn't need the distraction of working with her ex. She's sworn off romance—she's even having a baby on her own. But before she knows it, the heat is on…and the attraction between her and Cal moves from a low simmer to a full boil!
The rest should be easy as pie, but a secret from Cal's past could spoil everything. Maybe it's true that too many cooks spoil the broth—or maybe two is enough to make it irresistible.
Nobody in Good Riddance is wondering how world-class chef Augustina "Gus" Tippens ended up running the local diner. No, but everybody's dying to know the identity of the mysterious, sexy stranger who's eyeing her like she's scrumptious crème brûlée…
Travel journalist Nick Hudson loves coming across the unusual—and the annual Good Riddance Christmoose Parade definitely fits the bill! But his biggest surprise is Gus! When they finally lure each other into bed, the sex is better than chocolate. Way better!
But Gus has a secret…and a complicated, dangerous past. Worse yet, when she discovers the truth about Nick, he might never be allowed to sample her delicious goods again. And with a woman like Gus, one taste just isn't enough….
#67 To Love a Wilde
After winning the coveted Top Young Chef award, Yasmine Taylor is finally going to realize her lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant. But first she's returning home to help her aunt recover from surgery and to plan her own next move. Yasmine has never forgotten her roots growing up on the Wyoming Wilde ranch, or Holt Wilde, her gorgeous teenage crush. He's grown into a sinfully sexy bad boy who's left a trail of broken hearts scattered across the West.
Seeing Yasmine again is like a one-two punch to Holt's heart. Lassoing a steer is nothing compared to the way the sensual city slicker is roping him in. The shy tomboy is now a stunning, successful woman being pursued by powerful men. Can Holt convince her that his rowdy days are over? Is Yas ready to be branded his woman—for now and always?
On paper, Vivienne Neal had a lifestyle most people would envy. Only she knows what a sham her marriage really was. So when her politician husband is killed in a hit-and-run accident, she moves to Florida and takes a job as a personal assistant to Diego Cole-Thomas, a powerful CEO with an intimidating reputation.
Vivienne's intelligence and social grace prove invaluable to Diego, and on a business trip to South Carolina's lush Low Country, their business relationship takes a sensual detour. But when threatening letters arrive at Diego's office, he realizes that Vivienne's husband's death was no accident—and that she will meet a similar fate unless they can uncover the scandalous truth together….
Professional poker player Jax Gallagher should have known better than to wager a World Series baseball that wasn't his to lose. Now the man who won the collectible is demanding his prize…or else. Trouble is, the ball is owned by his estranged father's widow—a flamboyant Las Vegas showgirl. Jax will do whatever it takes to get it back.
Yet Treena McCall is anything but the ruthless gold digger Jax expects. She's built a life for herself filled with good friends and hard work. And she's got enough on her plate trying to hang on to her job as a dancer without being wined, dined and seduced by sexy Jax Gallagher….
Reid Buchanan was always a fan favorite on the baseball diamond. But between the sheets?
A spiteful article about the former pitcher and current playboy questions his talent in the bedroom. And the newspaper's just the first bad news. Reid's grandmother Gloria's broken hip means she needs constant care—but Reid hired Nurses 1 and 2 for their bedside manner with him. So for Number 3 he chooses Lori Johnson, the first candidate who seems immune to his brand of charm.
Lori's never wasted her time with amoebas like Reid Buchanan. So why are her well-fortified defenses starting to crumble under the force of his sexy smile—and the kindness he shows her at every turn? There's only one explanation for the feelings flaring between them—chemistry. Chemistry so hot, it's sizzling!
Annabelle Jordan and her two sisters were orphans in frilly dresses when they went to live with their sports-lawyer uncle in his world of locker rooms, bookies and gambling.
Now the girls are publicists in their uncle's firm, The Hot Zone. Despite her upbringing, Annabelle is all woman. She's naturally drawn to real men—like her latest client, businessman and former football legend Brandon Vaughn.
The chemistry is potent, undeniable, irresistible. Annabelle soon realizes that Brandon is much more than just another jock. And that she'd better hold on tight if she doesn't want to lose her heart.
Born into a real-estate dynasty, Brandt Wainwright chose football over the family business, and now he's a Super Bowl MVP. That streak of good fortune runs out the day Brandt crashes his SUV into a tree. During the long recuperation, the fun-loving quarterback becomes cranky and sullen—until private nurse Ciara Dennison shows up for duty.
Ciara has zero interest in sports, or in tall, blond jocks with overblown egos. She's dated a man in the public eye before, and she's not repeating that mistake. Somehow Brandt keeps breaking down all her defenses, seeing through her facade to the sexy free spirit underneath. But once his recovery is complete, will he return to the celebrity life he knew—or choose the woman who can fulfill his dreams?
#73 I'll Catch You
Cedric Reeves has just been sidelined, and the bad-boy pro footballer suddenly finds himself without an agent or a prayer of getting back in the game. What he needs is someone pulling for him…someone like gorgeous go-getter Payton Mosely.
A media-hounded celebrity like Cedric is just what the ambitious up-and-comer Payton needs to jump-start her career. That's why she's waging a no-holds-barred campaign to land the Saber running back as her first client. But how's the NFL sports agent supposed to keep things strictly professional when Cedric pursues her with a passion no sane woman can resist? Could this sexy bad boy be good for her after all?
Lucy Savage is finally getting rid of Bradley—and his hideous green recliner. Bradley is out of her life for good. Or so she thinks. Turns out Officer Zack Warren wants to arrest the very same Bradley for embezzlement and figures the lovely Lucy can lead him straight to his target.
Good thing there's a cop around. Because someone shoots at Lucy and then blows up her car. Zack insists she needs twenty-four-hour protection. What does he think her three dogs and attack cat are for? Still, he insists on moving right in to Lucy's house.
Now there's danger lurking outside and in her own kitchen, bathroom—and bedroom. Or maybe Zack is just what Lucy needs.…
Tess Newhart knows her ex-boyfriend Nick Jamieson isn't the right guy for her. He's caviar and champagne; she's take-out Chinese pot stickers. He's an uptight Republican lawyer; she was raised in a commune. He wants to get ahead in business; she just wants…him. But there's no way Tess will play second fiddle to his job.
Yet somehow she finds herself agreeing to play his fiancée on a weekend business trip that could make or break Nick's career. And while he's trying to convince Tess that he needs her in his respectable world, Tess is doing her best to keep her opinions to herself and her hands off Nick.
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Date: 2011-05-27 06:26 pm (UTC)Fic, Art, or Both (if art, please specify the type): FIC
First Choice: 26
Second Choice: 65
Third Choice: 23
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Date: 2011-05-27 06:29 pm (UTC)