romance

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

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

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

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

Warning: this book may cause heart palpitations, nail biting or shortness of breath!

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A book release is always exciting. Today I’m shouting about Dangerous Descent, a new release from one of my awesome and talented critique partners, Evie Jacobs.

But first, let me introduce the author: Evie Jacobs is a word nerd. As a child, she read constantly. And when she wasn’t reading, she was writing. Not much has changed. By day she works in a library surrounded by books, and by night she writes steamy action/adventure romance. She lives in Colorado with her husband, two cats, and six bicycles.

Her new book is an action-packed romance that will have your heart beating for more than one reason—don’t let down your guard!

Pilot Elise Hughes left the family business in the Florida Keys and now flies the rich and powerful to and from the Rocky Mountains. When she has to execute a by-the-book emergency landing, it’s no big deal. But being stranded in a small town with her handsome new colleague is something else entirely.

Obsessed with getting justice for his murdered father, undercover FBI agent Eric Erickson believes retribution is finally within reach. Until things get complicated. And dangerous. And he’s forced to face a few too many realities—including Elise’s connection to a well-known crime boss.

After Elise is kidnapped by the same man who took Eric’s father, he has a choice to make—find Elise or exact revenge. Meanwhile she has a choice of her own—trust the dangerous family she never knew she had or the man who’s been lying to her from the start.

Fellow word nerds, enjoy this peek inside Dangerous Descent:

Set-Up: Elise is a pilot for a charter company. A mechanical issue forced her and her partner, Eric, to make an unscheduled stop in a small Nebraska town. The pilots, along with the passengers, are spending the night in the town’s only motel as they await the repair. She and Eric just gave in to the physical attraction for one another, but before things went too far, she pulled away and stepped outside.

Oh. My. God.

Elise gripped a fistful of hair on each side of her head and paced in an agitated circle, all the while, her pelvis throbbed with need. What the hell just happened? Surely, she’d hallucinated that entire encounter, because otherwise, it didn’t make any sense. One minute she was talking about Dad and trying not to cry. In the next, she was inviting Eric to sit beside her on the bed.

His hands. His kisses. His musky cologne. All of her rules about getting involved with colleagues? Forgotten. Her disappointment in the male half of the species? Irrelevant. Because in that moment, he was the only thing she wanted.

Her muscles tightened, locking up as if she’d just run a marathon. But then, her body relaxed, the tension evaporating like sweat on a dry Colorado day. She’d not been the only one in that room. Eric had also been affected. She’d felt the evidence pressing against her leg.

She took a calming breath and gazed at the stars. Since her dad’s death, she’d cut ties and avoided attachments. The rift in her relationship with her brothers. Old friends she’d avoided or lost touch with. Better to shut people out than take the chance they’d leave too. Now, for the first time in a long time, she actually craved the safety and intimacy of another person.

She inhaled and let the night air fill her lungs.

Looking at the sky grounded her. She’d seen similar views from the cockpit of a plane but couldn’t remember having ever seen the stars so clearly with two feet still on the ground. A peaceful calmness washed over her.

A couple more minutes and maybe she’d be able to face him without turning an unflattering shade of red. Unlikely. Still, he deserved an explanation for the way she’d rushed from the room. She could go with the obvious and tell him it wasn’t a good idea to get involved with a coworker, but she suspected he’d see through that lie. The truth was, she wasn’t prepared to deal with something quite so real.

The trees surrounding the motel shook. Elise shuddered. Was it the cool breeze or her creepy surroundings? She drew her arms close and strolled to the other end of the building. Rounding the corner, she collided with what felt like a tank.

Nicky.

Warm, calloused hands gripped her upper arms, stopping her in place. “What are you doing out here? You look cold.” His voice sounded polite, but his tone held an edge. A shadow fell across his face. Why had she never noticed his heavy brow or those fleshy jowls? Something about the man projected danger. Feeling silly, she shook her head. These were her customers. No, they weren’t friends, but she knew them. They were kind and generous. She’d let Eric’s mention of the mob get to her.

She tried to retreat, but he didn’t release her. The pounding of her heart beat out a slow, heavy rhythm against her chest. She felt a sheen of sweat on her forehead. “I came out for some fresh air. I’m about to go back to my room.” She tried to step away from the big man.

His grip tightened. “I was on my way to get you. Mr. Alario wants to have a word.”

“Is it about the plane?” She glanced at his hands, still jabbing into her soft flesh. Her pulse throbbed beneath his thick fingers. “There’s not much to report. The repair shouldn’t take long, but they have to get the part.” Her voice sounded louder, shriller than she’d intended. She turned, longing to be back in the safety of Eric’s embrace.

“Where do you think you’re going?” He still held one arm. “I said the boss wants to see you.”

The boss? Internal alarm bells wailed. Something wasn’t right. “It’s chilly. Let me grab my sweatshirt.”

He shook his head, placed his hand on her shoulder and guided her to the back of the motel. Her gaze swept the area. No one to help. Nowhere to go. Scream. The words wouldn’t come. She dug in her feet, but the momentum of his push resulted in short, halting steps.

Think. The situation required calmness. “What does Mr. Alario want to talk about?”

“He’s in Rocco’s room.”

A couple of inadequate light fixtures attached to the building cast shadows. The trees groaned and the leaves whispered. A wild screech cut the air. An owl?

Nicky rapped on the door. Christopher opened it and smiled in that familiar way. Happy, friendly Christopher. She relaxed. It’s fine. She’d let her imagination get the best of her.

When she stepped inside the room, Nicky herded her among the other men. Her heart raced as she rotated, scanning each of the angry faces.

Thanks for sharing with us today, Evie, and congratulations on the birth of your new book!

Happy reading to all!

Darlene

How to find Evie and your copy of Dangerous Descent:

website: https://www.eviejacobsauthor.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eviejacobsauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553692483183

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/evie-jacobs

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

Countdown to Valentine’s Day–meet cutes

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What the heck is a “meet cute?” In the world of romance writing, it’s the first meeting of the two main characters who will eventually become a love interest. The meet cute sets up the circumstances, and usually gives the hero and heroine a chance to size each other up, whether the meet starts with intrigue, annoyance, a spike in blood pressure, or a tingle up the spine.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, I’ll be sharing a few of the meet cute scenes in my romance novels. Here’s the meeting between Kristen and Reed in The Story Between Us. Enjoy!

meet cute TSBU

The sound of clapping filled the room. The manager beamed at Kristen then unhooked the small velvet rope, signaling the event was under way.

For more than an hour, Kristen hardly put down the marker or drank any of the water the store provided. No awkward gaps appeared in the line. While she visited with the customer in front of her, movement in her periphery vision caught Kristen’s attention.

A young boy bounced in line waiting for his turn.

Kristen smiled but kept focused on the customer at the table.

“Christmas gifts.” The woman presented three copies of the new book.

Kristen mentally pinched herself. Three copies to a single customer had to be a first. “Thank you so much. I sure hope they enjoy the books.” Turning back toward the line, Kristen was surprised to find the fidgeting boy already standing at the table.

With both hands, he placed a copy of What Will You Be? on the table and shoved it forward with a lopsided grin, his bright blue eyes shining.

“Hello there,” Kristen said. “What’s your name, my friend?”

He put his chin in a hand and leaned in close.

The bill of his Rangers baseball cap pushed into Kristen’s personal space.

“Dylan.”

“Pleased to meet you, Dylan.” She flicked her glance to the man standing beside the boy, who she assumed was Dylan’s dad. Wow. No wonder the kid was such a cutie. With a tall, solid build and unruly curls, the man looked as if he’d come straight off a professional soccer field—except for the suit and marigold-yellow tie that dangled around his neck. At seven forty-five. Had he just come from work?

Beneath raised brows, his slate-blue eyes stared.

Oops. She might have lingered a bit too long with her assessment.

“Dylan wanted to get his book signed.”

His deep voice reminded Kristen why she was there, and heat rushed to her face. She grabbed for the orange pen. “Yes, of course.”

“You’re coming to my class tomorrow.” Dylan said.

“Oh, my gosh. “Mrs. Baxter is your teacher?”

Dylan bobbed his head vigorously.”

“I sure am looking forward to being there.” Her schedule included an appearance in the classroom of her longtime friend Jana Baxter the following afternoon. School visits were always a fun time. While Kristen appreciated parents bringing kids to the bookstore—and buying her books—she preferred the low-key time with the kids in a classroom setting.

Kristen glanced at the boy’s dad, surprised to see a hint of impatience in his otherwise gorgeous eyes. Apparently, he wasn’t excited about being dragged out tonight. From the looks of things, he’d only gone home long enough to pick up Dylan. Maybe he hadn’t eaten dinner and felt a little grumpy.

Turning to the inside title page of the book, she wrote, “For Dylan, a very special book buddy.” She signed her name then stood and extended a hand. “I’m Kristen. You must be Dylan’s father. Thanks so much for coming this evening.”

With a slight nod, he grasped her hand. “Good to meet you, Kristen. I’m Reed Armstrong, Dylan’s uncle.”

Ah. He must’ve promised the kid some kind of outing, thinking it’d be baseball or ice cream, not a trip to the bookstore. Kristen stifled a laugh, not sure whether to feel sorry for him or annoyed he didn’t seem to appreciate time spent in a bookstore. Pulling away her gaze, Kristen turned back to her young fan. She lifted the book and held it toward Dylan. “Have fun reading that with your mom and dad or your uncle,” she told him.

Dylan’s smile disappeared, and he looked down. “Thank you,” he mumbled.

His uncle leaned forward, clearing his throat. “I’m Dylan’s guardian.”

The Story Between Us is a sweet romance that takes place primarily in Texas. It’s available in ebook and paperback formats from most online retailers, including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Apple.

Happy reading! And Happy Valentine’s Day to all, whether you’re celebrating with friends, a spouse or significant other!

Darlene

The Story Between Us:

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?

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-story-between-us-darlene-deluca/1137387092?ean=2940162985785

https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-story-between-us/id1525107147

Going Home and Finding Love

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Hello, friends! Today I continue a series of holiday guest posts featuring talented authors who will share a little about themselves and their books. I asked them each to answer some holiday-related questions. Let’s get to know author Maria Imbalzano. Welcome, Maria!

–What’s your favorite holiday movie and why? I love “The Holiday” with Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Jack Black. It’s a “swapping homes” story where two women, one a wealthy California producer who lives in a mansion and one an English journalist who lives in the countryside, find each other through a house exchange website. Each of them is nursing a heartbreak and want to get away for the Christmas holiday. And of course, each of them finds love in their home away from home. This movie has just the right amount of conflict, humor, tenderness, and spirit without being the normal fare we usually see around the holidays.

–What’s your holiday “specialty?”  I’m not much of a cook, but I do like to bake—probably because I’m addicted to sugar. Christmas cookies are my favorite, so I guess that’s my specialty, although I want to be clear that I really don’t belong in the kitchen. I always baked these treats with my mom, and now I do it with my daughters and granddaughters. Of course, they don’t come out as good as when my mom was involved.  The problem with my baking in general is that I’m a little casual with quantities. My mother, daughters and husband have all commented on my methods of measuring water, flour, sugar etc. My response: Is there really a difference between dry measuring cups and wet? And do the measurements actually have to be exact?

Despite my shortcomings, we make butterballs, kiefli, chocolate walnut, and recently added red velvet crinkles (in honor of my book). In my opinion, they are all delicious.

Maria Imbalzano is an award-winning contemporary author who writes about strong, independent women and the men who fall in love with them. She recently retired from the practice of law, but legal issues have a way of showing up in many of her novels.

Maria is a member of New Jersey Romance Writers and has received many honors and awards for her work including the Readers’ Choice Heart of Excellence Award, the Write Touch Readers Award, The NEST (National Excellence In Story Telling) Award, the Carolyn Award, The Stiletto Reader’s Choice Award, Book Buyers Best Award, Long & Short Reviews Book of the Month Award, and Still Moments Magazine Reader’s Choice Award.

When not writing, she loves to travel both abroad and in the states.  Maria lives in Lawrenceville with her husband–not far from her two daughters and granddaughters.

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Book blurb:

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?

A favorite line from the book: Some women fear the fire. Some simply become it.

Connect with Maria:  http://www.mariaimbalzano.com

https://books2read.com/u/38d09r

Thanks for joining us today, Maria! I also enjoy The Holiday and have already seen it a couple of times this season! And I love your quote from the book! Readers, what’s your favorite holiday movie?

Darlene

Bring on the cookies–It’s Release Day

darlenedeluca Books, Guests, Uncategorized, What's New , , , , , , , , , , ,

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

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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!