What’s New

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/

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

Drum roll please . . . it’s Release Day!!

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Sunsets, wide open spaces, cowboys, and unexpected romance — Sunset Ledge has all the feels!

I’m so excited to share my new novel, a “silver fox” or later-in-life contemporary romance set on the beautiful Armstrong Ranch in Texas. It’s a stand-alone story, but also revisits some of the people and places from my earlier book, The Story Between Us, a sweet contemporary romance.

Release Day!!!Sunset Ledge features Jack Armstrong, the self-assured, widowed loner who owns the ranch . . .

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 in ebook and paperback formats from most online retailers! Visit these retailers and my social media links to hear what reviewers are saying about Sunset Ledge!

Happy reading, and thanks for helping me celebrate today!

Darlene

Here’s a sneak peek!

Jack spotted the car first. But as the road curved around the creek, he saw the woman. He watched as she set up a tripod then pulled a bag from her car. No equipment, huh?

She tossed off the hat she’d worn the day they’d met and moved up to the camera, hair blowing around her.

He signaled Charlie, his trusted Appaloosa, to move forward. As far as Jack could tell, she was taking pictures of rocks. He didn’t much care what she was doing, but he wanted her to know he saw her and all the stuff she had strewn about.

As they approached, she turned, shading her eyes with her hand.

Jack tipped his hat. “Afternoon, ma’am. I understood you weren’t bringing equipment.”

“Good afternoon, Jack. It’s Caroline. Do you mean the tripod?”

What else would he mean? He nodded toward her set-up.

“I understood you didn’t want a crew of people and video equipment. All I have is a single tripod for a single camera used by a single person. It helps steady my hand.” She held up a hand and added with a light laugh, “I prefer my pictures to be in focus.” She gestured toward the rock. “These little guys move so fast.”

Jack squinted. “What guys?”

“I’ve got three or four lizards running around here.”

“Ah.” Jack adjusted on the horse, feeling a bit foolish. Probably best to move on and leave her to it.

“I got a great shot of a rattler a while ago.”

Alarm pulsed through him. “You did? A rattlesnake here on the ranch?”

“Yes. It was amazing, but a little…rattling. Pun intended.”

 She let out that soft chuckle again.

“I admit it gave me a scare for a minute, but after a short standoff, we gave each other our space and went our separate ways. Want to see?”

She fiddled with the camera a moment, and Jack was compelled to swing down from the horse. He did want to see.

When she held it toward him, he peered into the back of her camera, and found the cold-blooded face of a rattlesnake staring at him at close range. His heart bounced. He turned his gaze back to the woman beside him—and wondered if the ranch had adequate insurance to keep her on the property.

She’d captured one hell of a shot. The snake, obviously alerted to her presence, sat tensed, partially hidden beneath a rock, but its rattle erect and sending the telltale warning to the intruder.

“What do you think?” Caroline asked.

Jack shook his head. He couldn’t say what he really thought in the presence of a lady. He blew out his breath. “Caroline, we try to keep our guests out of harm’s way on the ranch and would appreciate it if you’d help us out in that regard by not doing something foolish. How close were you?”

The hand she placed on his arm sent unexpected—and unwelcome—jolts of heat through Jack.

“Don’t worry. It’s a long lens. I wasn’t as close as it might seem. Also, if it gives you any comfort, I carry a snake kit in my backpack.”

Disbelief rolled through Jack. That sounded like a line of bull to him. He stared hard. He’d better make sure they had a fresh supply of the kits just in case. It’d been a while since he’d seen a rattlesnake around.

“Remember?” Caroline prompted. “I’m a biologist. I’ve taught college-level biology and ecology for twenty-five years. Technically, I’m ‘Dr.’ Tate.”

She added a saucy smile that crinkled around her warm eyes.

Caught off guard, Jack cleared his throat. “No, I don’t think you mentioned that.” The information explained the hint of arrogance in her attitude. Well, fine. No need for him to worry about her then. “Very good. I should let you get back to your picture taking.”

He put his left foot into the stirrup and swung his right leg over Charlie’s back.

“Hey, Jack.”

He would’ve moved along had she not called to him. Instead, he turned back. She didn’t seem to have any trouble with his first name. In fact, it rolled from her lips as if they were old friends. He squirmed in the saddle. “Yes?”

She dusted her hands against her jeans before meeting his eyes. “I understand you’re all alone in the big house. Would you have dinner with me tonight? I’d love to learn more about the ranch.”

A hot flush crept to Jack’s collar. She had to be kidding. Who had she been talking to? And why would he want to have dinner with her? Sweat rolled down the back of his neck. Because he could use the company? And she was an attractive, interesting woman?

She glanced at her watch. “I’m ready to wrap up here. It’s been a full day, for sure. Want to say around six-thirty?”

He hadn’t said yes.

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

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

Amazon

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

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

Sunsets, a nature retreat, and cowboys . . . the perfect set-up for unexpected romance!

darlenedeluca A Writer's Life, Books, Uncategorized, What's New , , , , , , , ,

perf5.000x8.000.inddWoo-hoo! We’re only a week away from Release Day! Sunset Ledge is a sequel to my sweet romance The Story Between Us, but can be read as a stand-alone. It’s what we call a silver fox, or seasoned, romance because the primary characters are age 50-plus. They are characters who’ve seen a little of life. They’ve been around the block a time or two, and they might be a little set in their ways. They’ve accepted where they are in life, so when an unexpected attraction and opportunity for a romantic relationship arises, they’re hesitant, cautious and maybe a little nervous . . .

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.

Be one of the first to read Sunset Ledge! The book, published by The Wild Rose Press, is now available to pre-order in digital or paperback formats from your favorite online retailer. Sunsets, cowboys, wide-open spaces, and characters you’ll love await!

Happy reading to all!

Darlene

Sunset pre-order

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

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

Amazon

Debut Novel Turns Ten!

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Wow! Today, my first published novel turns ten years old. Unexpected Legacy, which combines general fiction and sweet romance story lines, was published after I meandered my way through a serious learning curve. I have a degree in Journalism and spent the first 30 thirty years of my career writing newspaper and magazine articles and communications materials, so I already had the basics of writing. But stepping into the world of fiction, I had to learn a new way of writing. I had to learn about working with critique partners and beta readers. I had to establish a social media presence and learn how to format a 99,000-word book for publication. That was an exercise in frustration, to be sure! All of the elements, from coming up with a title, to polishing the book, to creating a cover, came together after what felt like months and months of struggle. I still remember the nervous excitement of pushing “publish” and opening the package that held my first author copy. The fun payoff! 🙂

As my first novel, Unexpected Legacy still holds a special place in my heart. I re-read it last week and made some tweaks. Tightened it up. Took out some unnecessary words. It’s amazing how every time I read back through one of my novels I still find things I want to change, scenes I might write differently today. That said, when I got to the last page, I found that I still liked the characters and the story. I’m still proud of the accomplishment and happy to have it out in the world.

I also went back and read through some of the reviews and was touched that the book struck a chord a few readers. Here’s one of my favorite reviews:

UL review on balloons

In celebration of the anniversary, I’ve put the digital version on sale for just 99 cents. Have an E-reader? Hope you’ll add Unexpected Legacy to your library! It’s available at all the usual online retailers in both ebook and paperback versions.

Happy new year, and happy reading!

Darlene

Unexpected Legacy:

Matt Dalton’s world is spinning off its axis. Without warning, he’s thrown into the world of parenting a teenager. Matt meets his son for the first time when the sixteen-year-old is dealing with the consequences of a tragic car accident. Not only has Brady lost his best friend, he faces disability and scars both physical and emotional.

Determined to do whatever it takes to give his son a second chance, Matt looks to his alma mater to step up and help Brady regain his athletic abilities and sense of self. But sparks fly when he meets the high school principal, the captivating Kate Austen. Kate is ready to take Brady under her wing, but to her that means helping him refocus and find a new passion – using his brains rather than his brawn. Kate fully expects the younger Dalton to come with issues and challenges . . . his father may prove to be the biggest one of all.

Though the chemistry is hard to ignore, Kate fights to keep her personal feelings and professional life separate. At the same time, Matt struggles to gain his son’s trust, and Brady must face the road to recovery and find a way to accept the changes in his life.

Unexpected Legacy is a compelling story of bravery, compromise and resilience.

https://books.apple.com/us/book/unexpected-legacy/id595649773

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/unexpected-legacy

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unexpected-legacy-darlene-deluca/1114072427?ean=2940044236271

Celebrating a Book Birthday!

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Ta-dah! After months of writing and editing, numerous rough drafts and revisions, a book is born! Yesterday was the official release date for my new holiday romance Christmas at Tall Pines! Curl up with this heartwarming story for an early dose of holiday cheer!

–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. SomethingGood

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?–

Christmas at Tall Pines is available in digital and paperback formats from your favorite online retailer!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BK1TP381/

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1174660

https://books.apple.com/us/book/christmas-at-tall-pines/id6443949366

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/christmas-at-tall-pines

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/christmas-at-tall-pines-darlene-deluca/1142549099?ean=2940165952432

Christmas at Tall Pines already has two 5-star reviews!

— ‘Tis the season for holiday romance and this book will tug at your heartstrings. With emotions running high, a beautiful setting, and a festive ambiance, this romance will sweep you away. –N.N. Light’s Book Heaven

— This story was a delightful read. The setting, though storming, was charming inside the lodge from the decorations to the music and holiday cheer, as well as the fireside warmth. Melanie and Tyler have great chemistry. –Still Moments Magazine

Pick up your copy today! Happy reading to all!

Darlene

Want to be an early bird?!

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Woo-hoo! I have a new book to share with you!

Today, my new holiday romance, Christmas at Tall Pines, is live for pre-order. You can pre-order a digital copy at all the usual retailers, and the book will download to your reading device on Nov. 1, which is the official release date. Paperback copies also will be available on Nov. 1. Just in time to get in the holiday spirit! 🙂

SomethingGoodMelanie 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?

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/christmas-at-tall-pines

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1174660

https://books.apple.com/us/book/christmas-at-tall-pines/id6443949366

Click photo for Amazon link.

Happy reading to all!

Darlene

Bring on the cookies–It’s Release Day

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Gingerbread, shortbread, frosted sugar, chocolate chip…what do these have in common? Sure, they’re cookies, but they’re also one of the main ingredients in a new collection of holiday stories from The Wild Rose Press!

square release day

Get in the holiday spirit this year by curling up with your favorite beverage and a Christmas story–and don’t forget the cookies! The novellas cover a range of genres including everything from contemporary romance to cozy mysteries and werewolves.

Today is release day for my novella “Cookie Collision!” Here’s a peek at it and a few others from the contemporary romance collection.

Happy reading! Let the merry season begin!
Darlene

–Justin moved into the room, set the things on a side table, and perched on a chair. Watching her, he could practically see the pain fade from her face. Her brow smoothed, and the tension he’d noticed around her lips disappeared. He fought the urge to brush a kiss across her forehead. She looked way too peaceful to disturb. But now what? Sit here and watch her sleep? Sneak out the door? He couldn’t leave it unlocked, and he had no idea whether she’d be down for the night or if she did power naps.

Finally, he took off his shoes and quietly padded to the kitchen to deal with supper. For now, everything could go in the fridge. Feeling like an intruder, he moved stealthily around her kitchen. With that task completed, he grabbed a newsmagazine from a basket and settled into a chair across from his patient…and/or dinner date.

Twenty minutes later, Alana stirred. She pulled up her arm and adjusted her position. Then her eyes opened.

“Hey,” he whispered.

She bolted upright. “Oh, my gosh. Justin. Did I fall asleep? I’m so sor—”

He held up a hand. “Shhh. No worries.” He handed her the glass of water and tablets. “Why don’t you take a couple of these then I’ll wrap your ankle.”

For him, the biggest issue was not the condition of her ankle but trying to stay in professional mode and ignore the feel of her smooth leg under his hands. Seated on the table in front of the sofa, he forced his eyes to focus on the strip of fabric as he wound it around both foot and ankle and secured it firmly. “How’s that feel?”

Alana nodded. “That’s amazing. It’s better already.” Luminous eyes met his. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome. Keeping it tight is the key.” He couldn’t help himself. He reached out and touched her hair. “Sorry you had a bad day.”

A light sparked in her eyes, and she sat straighter. “I didn’t have a bad day.”

Frowning, he cocked his head. “You didn’t? Looks like the ankle was, well, a big pain.”

She grinned. “It was. Except for this stupid ankle, I had a great day. I got two offers on the house, and another couple that’s interested is supposed to let me know tomorrow. That means we could have a bidding war and get more than our asking price. And that is a good thing.”

Justin couldn’t help laughing. He held up his hand for a high-five. “Very nice.” He loved her triumph-over-adversity attitude.

“Hey, food’s in the fridge. Easy to heat up whenever you’re ready.”

“Oh, okay. Thanks.” She glanced toward the kitchen then met his eyes again. “Are you— Can you stay?”

He felt a pull deep inside as those questioning blue eyes leveled on him. Yeah, he wanted to stay.–

Get your copy today!

https://www.amazon.com/Cookie-Collision-Christmas-Cookies-Darlene-ebook/dp/B09FXHKZDH/

https://books.apple.com/us/book/cookie-collision/id1585465393

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cookie-collision-darlene-deluca/1140147032?ean=2940162321422

The entire cookie collection

includes about 50 books.

Here’s a peek at a few other contemporary romances. Enjoy!

– Red Velvet Crinkles and Christmas Sprinkles by Maria Imbalzano

perf5.000x8.000.indd

Favorite quote from author:

“Dean’s gaze zeroed in on her, and her thoughts fuzzed. No way was she going to get out of this chair, sporting flannel pajamas and bunny slippers.”

Book Description:

Competitive, work-obsessed Bella Simonetti has just been fired from her high-paying job at a Manhattan law firm. At an all-time low, she returns home and helps her parents at their small-town gift shop, but the business is failing and may not make it past the Christmas holidays.

Successful landscape architect Dean Jackson is like a son to Bella’s parents. But he’s a persistent annoyance to her—he seems to have forgotten his unforgivable blunder thirteen years earlier.

When Bella transforms her parents’ gift shop into a cookie cottage, Dean’s generosity and magnetic smile are hard to resist, and those feelings of unrequited adolescent love come rushing back. But can Bella let go of the past and accept Dean for the man he is today?

https://www.amazon.com/Velvet-Crinkles-Christmas-Sprinkles-Cookies-ebook/dp/B09FYVGDWR/

– Tinsel and Tea Cakes by Jill Piscitello 5117yDXeTHL

Step back in time for an unforgettable winter wedding. 

Book Description:

Hair stylist Scarlett Kerrigan lost her job and her apartment. To alleviate a touch of self-pity, she succumbs to her stepmom’s pressure to attend a wedding in the New Hampshire White Mountains. Unfortunately, she runs into the vacation fling who promised the moon but disappeared without an explanation. Months have passed, but she is not ready to forgive and forget.

After a chaotic year, executive Wes Harley settles into his family’s event venue, The Timeless Manor. His carefully structured world is shaken to its core when Scarlett arrives for the Victorian Christmas wedding weekend. The feelings he never quite erased flood to the surface.

When secrets are revealed, will a magical chateau and a sprinkle of tinsel be enough to charm Scarlett?

https://www.amazon.com/Tinsel-Tea-Cakes-Christmas-Cookies-ebook/dp/B09J3FHCP8/

– Let it Snowball by Margot Johnson perf5.000x8.000.indd

Christmas tours brim with cookies, lights, and…unexpected romance?

Book Description:

Divorced, empty nester Merilee is on a roll. Filled with scrumptious cookies and old-fashioned fun, her Christmas bus tours aim to add festive spirit to her hometown and new meaning to her lackluster life. Too bad her reserved driver slams the brakes on fun.

Widowed farmer Ross needs a little joy to combat his December blues. Behind the wheel, he wears a Santa suit but can’t muster a convincing ho-ho-ho. Too many memories block his road to happiness…until irrepressible Merilee sparks a snowstorm of unexpected feelings.

In two weeks of holiday tours, Ross might drive Merilee crazy…or will romance snowball inside their lonely hearts?

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09FX386MR/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_tkin_p1_i0

– The Gingerbread Cookie Code by Ann M. Trader 51zGTWNKSaL

Computer geeks write code… and sometimes they bake them in gingerbread.

Book Description:

Clay Blackstone, avowed bachelor, is an ambitious computer design engineer at a prestigious firm. When an accident puts his dad on crutches, he returns home to help with his family’s Christmas tree farm, never expecting to find romantic entanglement with an alluring woman he remembers as a tomboy in braids.

As a single mother launching a bakery business, Shelby Turner has experience with measuring cups and watercolor paints, but not handsome, intriguing men—especially one who is her secret schoolgirl crush.

Between her sweet treats, his tech savvy, and their combined chemistry, will they risk their hearts and discover the code to their happily ever after?

https://www.amazon.com/Gingerbread-Cookie-Code-Christmas-Cookies-ebook/dp/B09GNNRW1M/

Are you a seasoned holiday book aficionado? Just browsing some holiday reads? 

Hope you’ll find a new favorite in the cookie collection!

Comments or questions for the authors? Leave them here!

Cheers to all!

House calls and Christmas cookies …

darlenedeluca Books, What's New , , , , ,

I know, I know, it’s still Halloween season. But I’m excited about the upcoming release of my newest story and helping to get YOU in the Christmas spirit!

“Cookie Collision” releases November 3, and is now available to pre-order on Amazon, Barnes & Noble online and Apple. See? By the time it drops onto your reading device, it’ll be the perfect time to snuggle up with a holiday read!

“Cookie Collision” is a heartwarming novella set at Christmastime in Kansas City. It’s part of a collection of holiday stories offered this year by The Wild Rose Press.

Here’s a peek:

House calls and Christmas cookies . . . a sweet combination or recipe for disaster?

Before she can let up and enjoy some holiday cheer, real estate agent Alana Drake has work to do. With Christmas moving in fast, she has clients to meet with, houses to show, and cookies to bake. Every open house deserves her special touch—homemade and hand-decorated sugar cookies for a warm welcome. And she needs several dozen for upcoming holiday events and open houses.

But a poorly timed stop at the grocery store could upend more than her bag of groceries. Running into Doctor Justin Teague—literally—shakes up Alana’s tidy world. The chance encounter leaves her with a bum ankle, forces her to reconsider some dating ideals, and reveals new information about a longtime nemesis.

When all she wanted was to bake some cookies…

A few words from an early reviewer:

In relatively few pages, Darlene Deluca again works her magic with realistic, relatable characters and a story that draws you in and leaves you smiling. The story starts with a bang … almost literally. It features an unexpected twist that I won’t reveal here, but let’s just say I made peace with the woman I vehemently disliked. It’s such a fun holiday story and I highly recommend it!

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Apple

Buy on BarnesandNoble

Whether you’re not ready for the holidays to begin, already shopping or anxious to get started, I hope you get some time to yourself to relax and enjoy the season — and maybe a book or two!

Happy reading to all!

Darlene