Books

Join the Holly Jolly Good Times!

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‘Tis the season for holiday fun!

Join me and other authors tomorrow, Dec. 5, for an all day festival of books! Find a new fave author, or a new book boyfriend, or just play along for a chance to win free books! 🙂

The more you comment and participate, the better your chances! The party  is happening on the Coffee, Cupcakes and Contemporaries Facebook Page. Hope to see you there!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1426474880768003

And that’s not all!!

More WINNING is happening through Jan. 5 for fans of women’s fiction!! And this one is soooo easy!

If you love discovering new women’s fiction authors, don’t miss this giveaway! Sign up for author newsletters to enter—one lucky reader will walk away with a full collection for their home library!

I’m featuring book one of my Women of Whitfield trilogy. The set makes a great gift for the reader on your holiday shopping list! 🙂

https://www.subscribepage.com/bestofwomensfiction

Enjoy the holiday season, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

HAPPY READING!

Darlene

I’m Seeing Stars!

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It’s been a month since I published my newest novel, Painted Dreams. It’s always a bit of an anxious time, like waiting for a courtroom verdict. Will people buy it? Will they like it? Will they leave a review?

Takes a long time to write, edit and polish a book, and after your baby goes live, anyone can weight in! And the truth is, people are more likely to report a negative experience than a positive one, which makes reviews a tricky thing.

I’m happy to say that early response to Kat, Nick, Nana and their story has been great! Whew! So today I’m sharing  a few of the kind words from some of the wonderful people who took the time to read and review the book. I’m seeing stars!!! 🙂 

Darlene Deluca has penned a captivating romantic novel that enchants from the very first page. Titled “Painted Dreams (Art from the Heart),” this heartwarming tale transports readers to a place in which love and creativity intertwine seamlessly. It is a feel-good story that wraps you in warmth and hope, inviting you to explore the depths of romance and the beauty of art. — Yarde Reviews

A recommended read of fun, drama, the artistic scene, and a heartwarming romance rolled into one. — Still Moments Magazine

This is a lovely story about two people who have a shared love of art, but come from two different backgrounds. It is a deep romance that shows a lot of conflict between the two until they can put their differences aside and let love conquer all. — Sparkling Book Reviews

Painted Dreams is a sweet and inspiring romance between two artists from very different backgrounds…

If you’re in the mood for a clean, heartfelt romance with emotional depth and relatable characters, this one is worth picking up. — Nana’s Book Reviews

Darlene Deluca has penned an unputdownable story that is part romance, part women’s fiction. The plot is filled with emotional triumphs, failures, and success. I got so caught up while reading, I became the characters.

If you’re looking for a book to take over your life and leave you with a book hangover, read Painted Dreams. Highly recommend. — N.N. Light Book Reviews

Whether you’re in the mood for a happy-ever-after, a new book boyfriend, or a heartwarming family drama, look no further! Painted Dreams is available in ebook and paperback formats.

Happy Reading to all!

Darlene

https://books.apple.com/us/book/painted-dreams/id6749023069

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/painted-dreams-darlene-deluca/1147882921?ean=2940181700840

As one dream fades, will another take shape?

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Today’s the day!! After more than a year of writing, editing, and revising, Painted Dreams is available for your reading pleasure. 🙂

This sweet contemporary romance kicks off a series (Art from the Heart) that features artists and characters who work in art-related fields–talented painters, flashy jewelry designers, serious art dealers, hunky craftsmen, and more!

Bright City Lights or Rugged Rocky Mountains…

Is a long-distance romance destined to fizzle in the busy-ness of day-to-day life? For Kat, Facetime is a poor substitute for Nick’s warm embrace, the spontaneous squeeze of his hand, and shared moments. Will someone have to “give” to make this work?

–Excerpt:

“I’m going to miss you,” Nick whispered against her hair.

“I’ll miss you, too. Call me when you get home, okay?”

“Will do.” His lips met hers, and she closed her eyes, basking in the warmth.

Moments later, he stepped onto the airport shuttle. As suddenly as he’d popped into her life, he was gone again. With a chilly wind stinging her cheeks, she waved. The cold seeped into her veins. Already, winter felt more bleak and gray without Nick’s warm hands and electric smile. She watched the van drive away and wondered, given their long-distance situation, had they just ended something or started something?

Book Boyfriend ready to wrap you in all the feels…

Nick Summers = sweet dreams

–Excerpt:

Kat stopped short. Her mother sat at the long mahogany table nearly shoulder-to-shoulder with a handsome man in a black dress shirt and tie. His shirtsleeves were pushed up, revealing muscular arms. Kat was momentarily flustered as those gorgeous eyes locked onto hers.

Her mother began gathering papers, prompting Nick Summers to do the same. “Why don’t I take these with me and draw up some ideas for you to look at?”

Kat stared at him. She’d never heard such a distinctive voice—velvety rich and commanding. The kind of voice you’d recognize immediately. Interesting…

…Time to do a little research and see what the internet could reveal about the intriguing Nick Summers.

Only took a few seconds to discover he had a social media presence but didn’t post much. Still, what was there presented a nice glimpse. In one photo, he was hoisting lumber on his shoulder and wearing a Habitat for Humanity shirt. As she scrolled down, another photo stopped her. Looked like Nick and his family—mom, dad and maybe a sister on a hike. Another of them picnicking beside a creek. Normal family activities. Nick’s wide smile indicated enjoyment if not joy.

Moving on to other search results, Kat discovered Nick’s name in numerous news articles. She had no idea what the different letters behind his name meant. But it was obvious the man worked hard and participated in the arts community. By all accounts, Nick Summers appeared to be a local hero.

Painted Dreams

— Katlyn Andrews is a talented artist on her way to fulfilling a dream—her own show at a New York City gallery. Focused on her career, she’s ditched her hometown of Denver for the bright lights of the Big Apple. When she’s drawn back to check on her beloved grandmother, she finds a surprise—Nick Summers, a woodworker bidding on a job at her parents’ upscale home. Nick’s gorgeous smile and easy-going manner charm Kat. Too bad he lives in Colorado.

Nick adores the mountains of Colorado, but NYC is on his radar. He’s auditioning to be a guest host on a home-builders network there. Since that’s a long shot, he’s still pounding the pavement closer to home to secure jobs like the high-end Andrews project. Meeting his client’s intriguing daughter has his thoughts going in other directions. Too bad she lives in New York.

But distance can’t dim their undeniable attraction. Unfortunately, it turns out dreams can be shattered. While Nick’s career is on an upward trajectory, Kat’s unexpectedly takes a big hit. Devastated, she struggles to find a path forward. Nick fears her family’s status and wealth keep her from seeing reality—is she reaching for the stars before paying her dues?

In her heart, Kat knows he’s wrong about her…but could her heart be wrong about him?—

Get your copy at all the usual online retailers today! Happy Reading to all!

Darlene

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/painted-dreams/id6749023069

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/painted-dreams-darlene-deluca/1147882921?ean=2940181700840

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/painted-dreams-5

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FJNJXGWT/

Book it to the Smashwords Summer Sale!

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Cheers to summer! Cheers to good books! And cheers to the Smashwords Summer/Winter sale that just happens to coincide with Christmas in July!

Is it hot where you are? Whether you enjoy the summer heat or can’t wait for fall, this is a perfect time to grab a beverage and get away to the snowy mountains of Utah – for just 99 cents! 🙂

Christmas at Tall Pines, a sweet holiday romance, will take you on a festive holiday getaway. It has all the feels — from cozy Christmas decor, to jolly holiday music, to a surprise reunion with a high school crush!

The Smashwords Sale has something for everyone! Don’t miss out on the deals and great summer reads!

click to browse

Christmas at Tall Pines

Melanie Beck is searching for an idyllic Christmas like the ones her small family used to have. Traveling solo and still grieving the loss of her parents, she’s counting on cozy Tall Pines Lodge tucked into the mountains of Utah to provide the elusive holiday feels with merry music, stunning decorations and traditional Christmas feast in a beautiful frosty setting.

But a blizzard turns the winter wonderland into a hazard, and a chance encounter with a now-famous high school crush has her reeling with emotions she’s never quite gotten over.

Tyler Shaw, a Hollywood heartthrob and silver screen star, is so over a grueling film schedule and persistent paparazzi. In disguise and using a fake name, he comes to Tall Pines to escape the spotlight and get some much-needed rest. He’s hoping the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing at the nearby slopes will give him the reboot he’s looking for.

Instead, he’s stuck at the lodge and is shocked to run into an old high school friend that he left behind more than a decade ago. He’s even more surprised to discover how much he’s missed her.

As their past and present collide, can an old flame ignite some Christmas magic?

I hope you’re enjoying the summer and some good books! Happy reading to all!

Darlene

Painted Dreams Cover Reveal!

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It’s always a fun day when I can shout about a new book! Today I’m revealing the cover for Painted Dreams, a contemporary romance that releases Aug. 1.

Need a new book boyfriend? Like insta-attraction? Family drama? Cheering for the good guy? Put this one on your list! Painted Dreams in the first in a new series featuring artists and characters in art-related fields. . . jewelry designers, art dealers, painters, and more.

Here’s a peek:

Katlyn Andrews is a talented artist on her way to fulfilling a dream—her own show at a New York City gallery. Focused on her career, she’s ditched her hometown of Denver for the bright lights of the Big Apple. When she’s drawn back to check on her beloved grandmother, she finds a surprise—Nick Summers, a woodworker bidding on a job at her parents’ upscale home. Nick’s gorgeous smile and easy-going manner charm Kat. Too bad he lives in Colorado.

Nick adores the mountains of Colorado, but NYC is on his radar. He’s auditioning to be a guest host on a home-builders network there. Since that’s a long shot, he’s still pounding the pavement closer to home to secure jobs like the high-end Andrews project. Meeting his client’s intriguing daughter has his thoughts going in other directions. Too bad she lives in New York.

But distance can’t dim their undeniable attraction. Unfortunately, it turns out dreams can be shattered. While Nick’s career is on an upward trajectory, Kat’s unexpectedly takes a big hit. Devastated, she struggles to find a path forward. Nick fears her family’s status and wealth keep her from seeing reality—is she reaching for the stars before paying her dues?

In her heart, Kat knows he’s wrong about her…but could her heart be wrong about him?

I enjoyed writing the entire cast of this one — from the fun best-friend sidekick to the smarmy, arrogant bad guy. There’s the high-brow mom and the sweet-but-sassy grandmother along with a hero and heroine you’ll be rooting for!

Watch my social media pages for quotes, reviews and giveaways!

https://www.instagram.com/darlenedelucaauthor/?hl=en

https://www.facebook.com/Darlene-Deluca-282385088481413/?ref=bookmarks

Happy reading to all!

Darlene

Revisiting a fave place and cast

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I’ve moved on and currently have a new book in the editing stage, a new book almost ready to release, and another book I’m writing. But I’m taking a little time to revisit and celebrate one of my faves! Today is the one-year publication anniversary of Sunset Ledge, a sweet later-in-life romance published by The Wild Rose Press.

It’s a stand-alone novel, but also a sequel to an earlier book, The Story Between Us. When I first wrote The Story Between Us, I hadn’t planned on a second novel, but the characters and the setting seemed to want more! And I have to say, I love these characters. It was fun to bring back a young boy who’d lost his parents and let readers see how he’d adjusted in his new life with his uncle as his dad. 

It was also fun to give the curmudgeonly grandpa from the first book his own story — to  dig deeper into his backstory and see if he could get unstuck and move to a better place. It just took the right woman to bring him back to life. 

Set on a fictional ranch in Texas, the landscape combines beautiful open fields with nature’s critters and stunning sunsets. It’s a place worthy of another visit! Happy anniversary to Jack, Caroline and all the cast of Sunset Ledge!

Darlene

Jack Armstrong lives like a recluse on his Texas ranch. In the difficult years after his wife’s death, he goes through the motions of life and wants to be left alone.

Caroline Tate, a widowed ecology professor, arrives at the ranch for a much-needed break and to take nature photos for her sabbatical project. But relaxing is a challenge when she finds herself at odds with the curmudgeonly cowboy who owns the place.

Jack generally steers clear of the guests, but this time, it’s not so easy. Vivacious Caroline doesn’t fade into the background. This city gal comes with pearls around her neck, a big red flower on her floppy hat, and way too many questions. Her self-assured, adventurous spirit gets under Jack’s skin, and she soon stirs feelings long dormant inside him.

Sunset Ledge is available at most online booksellers.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/…/sunset…/1145247176…

https://books.apple.com/us/book/sunset-ledge/id6497954022

Cheers to a book anniversary!

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When I started writing the first Women of Whitfield book, I didn’t intend to write a series, but as I wrote, the secondary characters– the good friends–all seemed to deserve their own time in the spotlight.

Today is the publishing anniversary of book three, Barefoot Days. It’s Mary’s story. Mary is happily married to a great guy, with three grown children who are also part of the story.

I enjoyed writing this one. Mary started out as a side character, but readers kept saying how much they liked her. She’s a good person and friend–generous with her time, money and influence.  In Barefoot Days, she hits some unexpected bumps that affect not just her but her family:

–Mary Logan believes in the goodness of people. She believes in grace under pressure. But when the ugliness of human nature touches her family, and a series of seismic events shake up her world, she’s put to the test again and again.

She and her husband are supposed to be enjoying the benefits of early retirement. Their nest is empty. It’s time to travel and re-focus. It’s their time. Then an alarming diagnosis and an unexpected announcement from their daughter change everything. Facing the possibility of heart-wrenching loss, Mary finds herself breaking commitments, forcing smiles, and keeping secrets.

Until now, her cup has always been half full. Will a positive outlook be enough to withstand the challenges ahead?–

Can’t believe it’s been eight years. I’ve written several books since then. But Mary remains one of my favorite characters. If you like character-driven women’s fiction, I think you’ll like her, too!

Here’s what a couple of reader had to say:

–‘Barefoot Days’ is a lovely book! Warm, real, and deeply satisfying.–

–You’ll cheer, cry, and enjoy this journey where you’ll be reunited with these great friends (you met them in the first two books of this trilogy) who remind you of the important role our gal pals play in our lives. Bravo!–

–This author once again struck a chord with me. Compelling story line with characters I could relate to. All set in a town that felt like I could live there. The third in her Women of Whitfield series, but it stood alone. You won’t have to read the others in the series to enjoy this book, but you’ll want to!–

Cheers and Happy Anniversary to Mary and Grant and the cast of Barefoot Days!

Happy Reading!

Darlene

Barefoot Days is available in ebook and digital formats at most popular online booksellers.

 

 

Feel the Love today!!

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Happy Valentine’s Day, friends!

Whether you’re spending the day with gal pals, a significant other or curled up with a good book, I hope you feel the love today! 

To help in that regard, how about a little romance?! Today kicks off the Oklahoma Romance Writers Guild Virtual Book Fair, So This is Love!

https://www.oklahomaromancewritersguild.com/bookfair

This is your invitation to join in the fun! 
Whether you’re in search of a new book boyfriend to make your heart go pitter-patter or a sweet romance that will leave you with a smile and a sigh, we’ve got a great read for you!
Find love, sparks, romance and happy-ever-after!
Click the link to check out the selection, and while you’re there, enter to win some cool prizes, including a $25 Amazon gift card!

My sweet romance The Story Between Us is one of the books featured in the Virtual Book Fair. It’s a tug-at-your-heartstrings romance with all the feels! 

Her agent warned her not to get attached to a fan. But children’s book author Kristen Hanover is about to break the rules. Kristen meets a young boy who is a victim of a tragic accident and is drawn into the heartbreaking situation.

Six years ago, Reed Armstrong never imagined he’d actually become guardian of his sister’s boy. Now he is, and most days he’s not sure he’s up to the task.

When he and Dylan meet Kristen, Reed downplays his nephew’s crush on the author. But as their lives become unexpectedly intertwined, he finds himself captivated as well. Trouble is, she sells stories for a living. Does she truly care about Dylan…and Reed, or is she using them for her own career advancement?

After you read The Story Between Us, revisit the Armstrong Ranch in book two of the series, Sunset Ledge, a later-in-life romance that proves love has no age limits!

Happy reading, and Happy Valentine’s Day! Crossing my fingers that Spring is on its way!

Darlene

Fictional friends celebrate anniversaries, too!

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I can’t believe it’s been ten years since I introduced Dana to the women’s fiction community. My, how time flies! Second Wind is the second book in my Women of Whitfield trilogy about three friends living in a small Kansas town.

Dana is a caring, hard-working nurse and mother of three young- adult children who she’s trying to launch into the world. As a single mom with an elderly father to care for as well, her plate is full. So when a tornado rips through town and reduces her home to rubble, it throws her life into chaos.

For years, she’s focused on two things: her work and raising her kids. Her eldest son is graduated from college and successfully employed, and her daughter is about to graduate. Mission almost accomplished. Except that shortly before the tornado slams into Whitfield, her youngest son has dropped out of college and returned home. Big problem. Now, there’s no home.

In the midst of change and challenges, Dana is blindsided by ugly accusations against her youngest son. She knows in her heart they are untrue, but it’s one more thing, and she’s hurt that people she’s known forever would even question her son’s character. Shaken, Dana begins to question whether she can rebuild her life in her beloved hometown or if it’s time to move on.

But it’s a small town, and friends are fierce. Dana is part of close-knit group of steadfast friends who come to her aid, offering her moral support, meals and a place to stay while she figures out the challenges ahead.

The three novels in the series each focus on one of three friends as their main character. The books are perfect for curling up on a cold, winter night with a blanket and a warm beverage! Immerse yourself in small-town charm with a few life challenges, a little   family drama, and a lot of friendship!

To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Second Wind, I’ve reduced the price of the ebook on Amazon. Take a look, and make some new friends!

Happy Reading!

Darlene

https://www.amazon.com/Second-Wind-Women-Whitfield-Book-ebook/dp/B00S1FWTDC/

Get your warm, fuzzy holiday vibes!

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Tis the season! Are you ready? Sure there are lists, shopping, cooking, baking, decorating, wrapping, etc., etc. But have you got that holiday vibe going for YOU?

Take a break from all the prep this weekend and spend a little time at the cozy Tall Pines Lodge in the snowy mountains of Utah. Curl up with your favorite beverage and relax a little before the holidays hit! Christmas at Tall Pines, a sweet romance, has all the feels — the awesome Christmas atmosphere, reunited friends, romantic sparks, oh, and a blizzard!! Will it ruin Christmas or rekindle some holiday magic?

Christmas at Tall Pines is on sale at Amazon until Christmas Day. Get a copy, and get lost in a happy-ever-after!

Here’s a little excerpt:

“Also, if you’re having an affair, keep that away from the camera.” His agent cleared his throat and hesitated a beat. “But if this woman is someone special, we can use that to our advantage. What’s the story?”

Tyler’s heart somersaulted.

This woman. He’d talked to Aiden about women before, mostly to enlist his help when things went the way of a three-ring circus in the media. All of a sudden, the topic felt more personal, private. He should’ve hung up ten minutes ago.

“I… She’s…” What story did he wanted to tell? Of course, she was someone special. Funny how crystal clear that was looking in the rearview mirror. Even in high school she’d been in a league of her own. The missed years weighed heavily on his mind. He had a feeling those years represented missed opportunities.

A low chuckle came across the line, and he wanted to kick himself for stammering around like an idiot.

“Well, well,” Aiden drawled. “This is an interesting development. Who is she?”

“We were friends in high school.”

“Uh-huh. And what are you now?”

Good question. And one he wasn’t sure how to answer. Friends? Potential lovers? A couple? As he considered the possibilities, his pulse skyrocketed.

“Don’t hold out on me, Shaw. I need to know what I’m dealing with.”

He let his glance wander to Annie’s book, and he lifted it from the table. Turning it over, he stared at her smiling face. Blood rushed to his head. He could definitely see himself spending more time with Annie. She was someone he’d be proud to be seen with in public, and someone he could relax with away from the prying public eyes.

But he would not be “using her to his advantage.”

“Aiden,” he warned. “Leave her out of this.”

Happy Reading and Happy Holidays!

Darlene