Netgalley ARC Review - Shaken by Rebecca Zanetti from Pivot!

BLURB:

As girls, they bonded over broken homes and growing up in foster care.
As women, they’re fighting for their lives, and loves, once more . . .
 
MERI
When Meriwether Jones takes her young daughter and runs from trouble in L.A., that trouble follows. By the time Meri reaches Spokane, she’s out of gas, money, and ideas. Luckily, ex-cop Ian Brodie hires her to help him with his father’s farmhouse, and they seem like the answer to each other’s prayers. But Meri is keeping a dangerous secret—and Ian is in danger of losing his heart . . .
 
MELANIE
That secret explodes when Melanie Cassidy spots two men trying to kidnap a young boy she tutors and responds by ramming them with her car. The last thing she expects is for the man she once loved, Detective Gray Hawkins, to appear and rescue them both. Now she has no choice but to trust him as they investigate the truth about a conspiracy of dirty, drug trafficking cops—and the truth about their relationship . . .
 
MICHELLE
After a rough youth, Michelle Peach was finally content in Portland—until two men broke into her home, threatened her, and sent her mentally unstable mom on a blackmail spree that Michelle has to stop. The last person Michelle wants to see is her ex, Evan Boldon, a former marine turned sheriff. But Evan misses the woman who walked away instead of letting him help years ago. This time he’s not asking permission; he’s going to put a stop to the trouble stalking Michelle and her friends—and win her heart for good.

MY REVIEW:

* Reviewing Rebecca Zanetti's Shaken*

Shaken sure did ramp up my excitement for more! More suspense, more sizzling romance and more adventures. Michelle and Evan's story WAS IN-EFFING-CREDIBLE! We get to see Wolfe, Roscoe, Kat and a few characters from one of my other absolute favorite series, Dark Protectors and it excited and thrilled me!

Evan is another one of those heroes that is heart stoppingly sexy, all alpha, strong, capable and no doubt will make all the ladies swoon. And Michelle, she is equal parts sweet and fierce. Watching the fireworks go off between these two as danger closes in and suspense unravels made this an unputdownable read. Its the kind of story that once you finish, you want to pick it back up and start again. I LOVE EVERYTHING Rebecca Zanetti writes and now I am even more anxious to read Broken and to finally read Wolfe's story.  You can't beat a romantic suspense from Miss Zanetti. You just can't!

Shaken gets a UNPUTDOWABLE FIVE BIG BRIGHT BOLD STARS! 

ARC Review - Leaping Into Love (Taking The Leap #7) by Loni Ree!

BLURB:

Leap Year Baby…

My horoscope said, “For all those Leap Year Babies out there, it’s your day! Take a leap into something fresh and exciting.”

I don’t think my horoscope fairy meant for me hop into Mr. Walker’s pristine, Egyptian-cotton sheets. I had no idea my roommate's gorgeous employer was in the shower when I let myself in to take his dog for a walk. I surprised him, he was shocked to see me then I lied and insulted him, royally.

I was only supposed to walk his dog for a day to help out my roommate but now Knox is offering me a whole new job. One I may not be able to turn down. After all, this is the new Leap Year me.

MY REVIEW:

Yep, we got ourselves an adorable, fun, quirky, sexy as hell romance that I so very much enjoyed from the very first sentence to the very last!

Leaping Into Love was fantastic! Sloane and Knox had such giggle worthy banter and their chemistry heated up the pages. The story was amusing, cute, fun and hot too. I loved the bit of craziness and quirkiness to the romance. It made me smile and had butterfly wings tickling my insides. So freaking cute!

Leaping Into Love gets a FUN AND SEXY FIVE GOLDEN STARS! 

ARC Review - Night Angel (Gargoyle Night Guardians Book 2) by Rosalie Redd!

BLURB:

An angel he is not…

Seth Denton, Gargoyle Night Guardian, was a freewheeling cowboy in his former life who experienced heartache first hand and has no desire for a repeat performance. When Hannah thinks he’s some kind of angel and weaves her way into his heart with her soft touch and gentle kiss, he must battle his all-consuming need for her along with the internal demons of his bitter past to save her from the dark fae intent on stealing her soul.

Hannah McAllister longs to find a meant-to-be, eternal love and fantasizes about Seth a hot, sexy Gargoyle Night Guardian. When a dark fae threatens to not only destroy her life but strip away every last ounce of goodness in her soul, Seth vows to protect her. As the battle escalates and she falls deeper into his world and into his arms, will she miss out on her one chance at everlasting love? 

MY REVIEW:

Rosalie Redd's gargoyle stories are INCREDIBLY, WONDERFULLY ADDICTING and just keep getting more and more heart wrenching! Night Angel squeezes the heart and leaves tears springing to the eyes as well as leave one feeling like they just witnessed the most splendid and sweetest of romances.

Seth and Hannah melted me! These two made my heart clench and soar at the same time. Their romance is heartfelt, sweet and just beautiful while their plot and storyline has a lot of edge worthy action and danger that keep the heart pumping and engages the reader. Its an enchanting, captivating and exhilarating romance and I can't seem to get enough of it. These gargoyles are amazing. Best series to date for sure!

Night Angel gets a WONDERFULLY ADDICTING FIVE AMAZING STARS! 

ARC Review - Creole Kingpin (The Magnolia Duet #1) by Meghan March!

BLURB:

New York Times bestselling author Meghan March goes back to New Orleans and the world of Lachlan Mount with a dangerous and bold new anti-hero.

The thing about ghosts is they’re supposed to stay dead.

That’s exactly what I am, but I can’t stay away from Magnolia Marie Maison for one more day, let alone another year.

We’ve already got fifteen of those between us.

As it stands, she’ll want to kill me as soon as she lays eyes on me. And knowing her, she’s completely up to the task.

But I’m a man on a mission, and I’ve got everything riding on this.

So, here I come, Magnolia. This ghost is ready for whatever you got.

After all, there’s only one way I want this to end—’til death do us part.

MY REVIEW:

OH MY MOTHER F*****G GAWD!! In ALL my years of reading romance, I have NEVER ONCE read about an anti-heroine before and I just got say, Magnolia is the BEST darn anti-heroine I EVER could of imagined! She is by far a total bad a** and I LOVED her. I seriously have a girl crush on her. Bold, ballsy, feisty as hell, she is EVERYTHING! And Moses....WOOOOOOOOOW! I didnt' think there could be another anti-hero I would love more than Lachlain Mount but by god, there is. Moses is an extremely charming show stopper, let me tell you!

Moses has charisma and charm and arrogance in spades. His teasing ways with Magnolia made me smile and my heart flutter. I haven't felt THAT kind of flutter since Mount and I am MIND BLOWN about that! 

The first book in The Magnolia Duet is spectacular, completely exhilarating and leaves me feeling speechless. Like for reals! I am having a very hard time putting words together that makes sense on how VERY VERY MUCH I LOVED Creole Kingpin! I haven't felt this kind of excitement and butterflies since The Mount Trilogy. Believe me, you will want to make Creole Kingpin your MUST READ of the freaking year! Its devastatingly, heart melting good with a cliffhanger that will no doubt in my mind leave you breathless and shocked as hell! Creole Kingpin gets a MILLION AND ONE SHOW STOPPING STARS!

Flame Release Blitz with ARC Review!

From New York Times bestselling author Aleatha Romig comes a brand-new dark romance, Spark, set in the same dangerous world as Secrets and Twisted. You do not need to read the Web of Sin or Tangled Web trilogy to get caught up in this new and intriguing saga, Web of Desire.

“What matters most is how you walk through the fire.” ~ Charles Bukowski 

No longer simmering and crackling beyond our realm, the fire smoldering in the distance roars to life. The blaze has the capacity to scorch and destroy everything and everyone in its path.  

All that I’ve known and believed was obliterated the moment Madeline spoke a truth I’d never suspected. With one sentence, one plea, my life has taken an uncharted turn. Through the smoke and soot, I search for answers.

A man, an outfit,and my brothers-in-arms have been my solace, my calling, and my reason to live. Now that I know there’s more, what will the future hold? 

The Ivanov bratva wants Chicago. I want what they possess. With the Sparrow world at war, and Madeline’s declaration, she and I are surrounded, trapped by the inferno. 

What will remain when the flames cease and we are left surveying the ashes?

MY REVIEW:

I thought I had everything figured out with this couple but by gawd I was wrong and I am SO GLAD! This is exactly what I enjoy about trilogies. Especially one like Web Of Desire. I was hypnotized by the twists and turns and heart pounding action and suspense. And the sizzling romance is CRAAAAAAAZY hot and had my desire set to scorching. 

These characters are unstoppable and mysterious and unpredictable and I am enraptured by their story. This is INSANELY good!

Flame gets a MIND BLOWING FIVE HOT HOT HOT STARS!

Get Your Copy Here:
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Apple Nook | Kobo

Spark is book 1 of the Web of Desire Trilogy and is available NOW!
Ashes is book 3 of the Web of Desire Trilogy is up for Pre-Order!

Check out the series:
https://www.aleatharomig.com/web-of-desire

Aleatha Romig is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author who lives in Indiana, USA. She grew up in Mishawaka, graduated from Indiana University, and is currently living south of Indianapolis. Aleatha has raised three children with her high school sweetheart and husband of over thirty years. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she's not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time a with her family and friends. Her other pastimes include reading and creating heroes/anti-heroes who haunt your dreams and bring your imagination to life!

Aleatha released her first novel, CONSEQUENCES, in August of 2011. CONSEQUENCES became a bestselling series with five novels and two companions released from 2011 through 2015. The compelling and epic story of Anthony and Claire Rawlings has graced more than half a million e-readers. Aleatha released the first of her series TALES FROM THE DARK SIDE, INSIDIOUS, in the fall of 2014. These stand alone thrillers continue Aleatha's twisted style with an increase in heat.

In the fall of 2015, Aleatha moved head first into the world of dark romantic suspense with the release of BETRAYAL, the first of her

five novel INFIDELITY series that has taken the reading world by storm. She also began her traditional publishing career with Thomas and Mercer. Her books INTO THE LIGHT and AWAY FROM THE DARK were published through this mystery/thriller publisher in 2016.

In the spring of 2017, Aleatha released her first stand-alone, fun, and sexy romantic comedy with PLUS ONE, followed by the sweet stand-alone, ONE NIGHT.

Aleatha is a "Published Author's Network" member of the Romance Writers of America and PEN America. She is represented by Kevan Lyon of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

Get Aleatha'd Here:

Newsletter | Website | Facebook | Amazon Author Page | Goodreads | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest  

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Caulky Tour Post with ARC Review!

Caulky

Four Bears Construction Series, Book 1

KM Neuhold

M/M Romance

Release Date: 02.07.20

Blurb

Ren is in desperate need of a rebound fling. Lucky for him the smoking hot contractor he hired has just the tool for the job.

The last thing I want is another relationship, or another broken heart.

All I need are my bees and the occasional hookup to scratch the itch.

Okay, maybe meeting up with my hot contractor weekly is a little more than occasional. And maybe the way I'm starting to feel about the guy I've been anonymously chatting with online should concern me.

But CaulkyAF doesn't want to meet, and Cole doesn't want anything serious, so what's the worst that could happen?

** Caulky is book 1 in the Four Bears Construction Series and can be read as a stand-alone. This is a funny, steamy MM story guaranteed to make you laugh and swoon. Absolutely NO cheating and NO love triangle

MY REVIEW:

Caulky is hot, work it GOOD romance with the most sexy and entertaining plot imaginable! Its wickedly funny and steamy AF!

KM Neuhold once again brought a delightfully fun romance to my door with Caulky. I loved the banter and the giggle worthy moments and the romance can make you just swoon and smile so big. The book is so much fun its contagious and I am more than ready for the next book.

Caulky gets a WILD AND FUN FIVE OH SO GOOD STARS!

Universal Buy Link: https://bit.ly/2SUFQZV

Excerpt

Dan: He lives! So, is the contractor there?

Ren: Yeah, and I DID oversleep. I answered the door practically naked, and you’ll NEVER guess who the contractor was

Dan: Who??

Ren: The bar hookup from last month! There he was all tall and gorgeous just standing on my front porch like he owned the place, and I had clearly just rolled out of bed like an idiot.

He sends the laughing gif again, and I respond with one of someone giving the finger.

Dan: Oh my god, that’s too funny. That’s the same dude you kissed months ago, right?! You did say he was incredible in bed, maybe this is like a sign from god or something that you should let him fuck you again.

Ren: Sounds legit

Dan: He’s a contractor; if porn has taught me anything, it’s that if you ask him to check your pipes, you’ll end up getting gang banged by him and like three other hot dudes.

Ren: You’re thinking of plumbers

It’s best to pretend that exact same thought didn’t cross my mind less than five minutes ago.

Ren: Anyway, he looked kind of weirded out, so I’m thinking a repeat is NOT in the cards

Dan: Bummer

Dan: Well, there are plenty more cocks in the sea

I sigh and take a sip of my coffee, enjoying the way it scalds my tongue, bitterness filling my mouth. Henry hated that I took my coffee black. I could never figure out why he gave a shit how I took my coffee. After five years together, there were so many little things I let slide or chalked up to living with another person. But now that he’s gone, I have to admit, my life is a hell of a lot more peaceful.

Ren: Yeah but my dildo is—OH FUCK! I just realized my dildo is in the bathroom!!!!!

All the blood drains from my face. I didn’t just leave it sitting on the counter either, that motherfucker is suction cupped to the wall, right at the perfect height to fuck myself. Which is exactly what I used it for around three in the morning before collapsing into bed and falling asleep, trusting my damned alarm to wake me up in the morning.

Daniel sends that god damned laughing gif again, and I want to reach through the phone and strangle him.

Ren: This really isn’t as funny as you think it is. So much for getting my bathroom done. Between our hookup, my state of undress, and the dildo, there’s no way he’s coming back

Dan: I am literally crying I’m laughing so hard. People on the train are giving me the stink eye, but I don’t even care. I am actually dead right now.

Ren: I hate you

Dan: Ok, I’m sorry. Unless you want to go in there and grab your dildo and make it even more weird, there’s nothing you can do about it at this point. So, finish what you were telling me. You’re looking for someone to bend you over and rail you...

Ren: I don’t think that’s what I said, although…

Dan: *high five*

Ren: After Henry, I can’t see getting serious with someone again. I was so miserable with him, and I never even realized it. I don’t want to go back into that situation

Dan: Stick to casual. Sign up for M4M and get your single on.

Ren: Yeah, I think I might

The heavy clomp of boots has me looking up, my face flaming at the thought of Construction Man (that’s his superhero name, by the way) seeing my dildo.

Author K.M.Neuhold is a complete romance junkie, a total sap in every way. She started her journey as an author in new adult, MF romance, but after a chance reading of an MM book she was completely hooked on everything about lovely- and sometimes damaged- men finding their Happily Ever After together. She has a strong passion for writing characters with a lot of heart and soul, and a bit of humor as well. And she fully admits that her OCD tendencies of making sure every side character has a full backstory will likely always lead to every book having a spin-off or series. When she's not writing she's a lion tamer, an astronaut, and a superhero...just kidding, she's likely watching Netflix and snuggling with her husky while her amazing husband brings her coffee.

linktr.ee/KMNeuhold

ARC Review - Mr. CEO Jerk by Loni Ree!

BLURB:

Meredith Maxwell

Life is good! This week I’m graduating and moving on to my new job, teaching munchkins. Although I’ll miss all my friends at the coffee shop, I sure won’t miss the jerk that came into Bon Java last week and ruined my day. There was no reason for the jerk to be so rude. After all, the spilled coffee was all his fault.

Tate Bennett

I can’t forget her. I know she’s too young, but my heart and soul belong to her. The girl owns me and she doesn’t even know it.

An invitation to a graduation party for a friend’s sister, brings Tate face to face with temptation and he discovers that he’s been mislead. The girl who owns his heart is much older than he was lead to believe. Now, he’s going to stop fighting the inevitable and starting fighting to get his girl. 

MY REVIEW:

Mr. CEO Jerk is such a sizzling hot romance that made me giggle, sigh in a big way and turned my heart into utter mush!

Loni Ree didn't fail me yet with her latest release. Mr. CEO Jerk made my heart sing for joy and had me moaning out loud. Tate is dreamy and sexy and 100% alpha and I LOOOOOVED him. And Meredith is such a strong force to be reckoned with with her fiery and yet vulnerable spirit and how she clashes with Tate just makes the blood pump strongly through my veins. I could feel the fireworks coming off these two from the first meet and things just got stronger and better on the next one which changed EVERYTHING. This was such a fantastic read!

MR. CEO Jerk gets a MUSHY AND STEAMY FIVE SUPER AMAZING STARS!

ARC Review - How To Love Your Elf (Embraced By Magic #1) by Kerrelyn Sparks!

BLURB:

Raised in isolation on the magic-shrouded Isle of the Moon, five girls became five sisters. Now women, they are ready to claim their places in the world—and perhaps change it forever . . .

FLAME AND FORTUNE

Sorcha knew the mission was dangerous. Leaving the safe grounds of her brother’s kingdom and parlaying with the elves across their border . . . well, treachery seemed at least as likely as true peace. But to support her sister, Sorcha would brave far more than the underhanded ways of the elves. Or so she thought, before she was taken hostage.

Of course, her captors didn’t count on her particular abilities—or on the help of the Woodsman, the mysterious thief who made his home in the forest. He saw the battle from the trees, saw the soldier attacking against incredible odds to save a comrade—and then saw the valiant fighter revealed as Princess Sorcha of Norveshka. He can’t tell if he wants to kidnap her or kiss her. But despite Sorcha’s stubbornness, his inconvenient honor, and a rebellion on the cusp of full war, something burns between them that neither can let go . . . 

MY REVIEW:

This might sound silly, but How To Love Your Elf reminded me so much of The Witcher meets Robin Hood or maybe its more like The Witcher meets Lords of The Rings. Either way it was very enjoyable! This is a phenomenal new series that is downright intriguing, imaginative, descriptive, and so very fresh and unique. I loved how the story was written. The characters were interesting and had amazing abilities and the plot and storyline was fascinating. I honestly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading the next one!

Its not too often I find a new book in a brand new series from an author I have followed for a long time that captured my attention the way this one did. Everything about it is original and amazing and is worth reading again and again! This is an unforgettable new book!

How To Love Your Elf gets a UNFORGETTABLE FIVE SHOW STOPPING STARS!

ARC Review - When Death Falls (Spells That Bind #11) by Cassandra Lawson!

BLURB:

Have you ever lost someone whose memory haunts you years after they’re gone? Someone you just can’t replace? I’ve been with others since that ill-fated Christmas, but none can compare.

Seriously, what does the Angel of Death have to do to get a good tattoo?

I’ve asked myself that question countless times since my tattoo artist disappeared right after Christmas twenty-four-years ago. After all this time, I finally have a lead on him. I am finally going to get the tattoo I’ve longed for all these years.

That was my plan when I flew to the San Francisco tattoo shop. Instead, I met a very unusual young witch. The moment I laid eyes on Tabitha, I felt an unusual draw to her and the strangest sense of déjà vu. No, it’s more than déjà vu. I know her, as impossible as it seems.

I may not remember my past with Tabitha, but when angels arrive to kill her, I know I’ll go any lengths to keep her safe. I would even take the ultimate fall for her. 

MY REVIEW:

When Death Falls is the continuation of Azrael's story from his prequel, Death And Christmas and let me tell you, I have been eager to finish his story since reading that. And his continuation was even more amazing and satisfying than I could of hoped for! Fun, sexy, heartfelt with witty humor and a page turning storyline, Azrael and Tabitha kept me on the edge of my seat and watching their interaction and romance made me incredibly happy and giddy. 

I loved the way these two characters so very VERY much. Azrael is one hot, slightly grumpy angel of death that I have the major hots for! He is gorgeous, and has a heart of gold and is quite a hero in my eyes. And Tabitha is a sassy, spirited and fun heroine that I would love to have as a friend if she were real. These two definitely had chemistry in spades and I loved watching the sparks fly! Add in all the surprises and twists and awesome action and this book was a major win. 

When Death Falls gets a FUN LOVING FIVE SPLENDID STARS!

Teacher I Want To Date Release Blitz with ARC Review!

Title: Teacher I Want to Date

Author: Mia Kayla

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: February 13, 2020

Dear V̶e̶r̶y̶ ̶H̶o̶t̶ Crazy Woman,

You didn’t have to call the cops on me.

I was just looking after my niece.

Okay… maybe I shouldn't have been spying on her date. But I know how teenage boys think and what they want.

Did it make you feel good scolding me in front of everyone for just being a good uncle?

B̶e̶c̶a̶u̶s̶e̶ ̶d̶a̶m̶n̶,̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶s̶u̶r̶e̶ ̶l̶o̶o̶k̶e̶d̶ ̶g̶o̶o̶d̶ ̶d̶o̶i̶n̶g̶ ̶i̶t̶.̶

I’m almost positive you were cussing me out and if I understood a lick of Spanish, I’d have s̶h̶u̶t̶ ̶y̶o̶u̶ ̶u̶p̶ ̶w̶i̶t̶h̶ ̶a̶ ̶k̶i̶s̶s̶ told you exactly what I thought about your meddling, even if you are her teacher.

In fact, I’d like to schedule a d̶a̶t̶e̶ ̶o̶v̶e̶r̶ ̶d̶i̶n̶n̶e̶r̶ ̶a̶n̶d̶ ̶w̶i̶n̶e̶ parent teacher conference to discuss our differing views on raising the youth of today s̶o̶ ̶w̶e̶ ̶a̶r̶e̶ ̶o̶n̶ ̶t̶h̶e̶ ̶s̶a̶m̶e̶ ̶p̶a̶g̶e̶ ̶w̶h̶e̶n̶ ̶w̶e̶ ̶h̶a̶v̶e̶ ̶c̶h̶i̶l̶d̶r̶e̶n̶—̶p̶r̶e̶f̶e̶r̶a̶b̶l̶y̶ ̶t̶o̶g̶e̶t̶h̶e̶r̶.̶

Y̶o̶u̶r̶ ̶F̶u̶t̶u̶r̶e̶ ̶H̶u̶s̶b̶a̶n̶d̶

Mason Brisken

MY REVIEW:

Teacher I Want To Date wasn't just funny. IT WAS DOWNRIGHT HYSTERICAL AND SO VERY SEXY!

I loved this book so much. beyond amusing and wildly witty and the romance....it will make a girl swoon for days, this was a fantastic read with truly fun characters and a plot that will give you the giggles and make your heart happy too. This was a well put together rom-com that was easy to follow and entertaining as all get out! Perfect for a weekend in!

Teacher I Want To Date gets a FOUR AND A HALF OH SO FUN STARS! 

Mason

I watched Sarah’s friends for thirty minutes. Whatever Tall Guy’s name was, I didn’t care because I didn’t like him. He was into my niece. There was no doubt about it. It was in the way he sat opposite her, and when she talked to Macy or Caroline, he’d simply stare and smile and practically drool.

Stare all you want, Tall Boy. ’Cause that’s all you’re ever going to do.

Twenty minutes later, Sarah scooted out of her booth. So did Macy and Caroline.

But hell, so did Tall Guy and the other two guys with them. 

So, I stood too. 

Good detectives didn’t let their suspects out of sight. 

Where are they heading? 

My eyes followed them to the corner where it looked like there was another room. From where I sat, I could see pinball machines and a Pac-Man machine.

Game room. Okay, that is public enough.

When they entered the room, I adjusted my cap and walked to the corner, where I could spy through the glass window. Call me the new Spy Guy.

I rested against the doorframe and peered in. There were a slew of teenagers and little kids in there. I’d never been here before, so I hadn’t known a game room in a pizza joint was even a thing.

Macy, Sarah, and Tall Guy were in the far corner. Sarah was playing Pac-Man, and she jumped every time she passed a level. She killed it at this game. I should know. I was the one who had taught her how to play. 

I froze when Tall Guy leaned in closer. His hip rested on the game, and whatever he’d said was making Sarah laugh. Again.

My fists clenched at my sides, and every muscle in my body tightened. 

What the hell was he saying that was so damn hilarious that he could make the girl who hardly laughed at comedy shows laugh?

How the hell can she play when you’re basically in front of the screen, idiot? 

Then, his hand grazed her hip. And shit, that was where Spy Guy’s Spidey senses kicked the fuck in.

I’m telling your dad, I practically singsonged in my head. It almost could be followed up by, Na-na-na-na boo-boo.

Immature, I knew, but this was what I was saying. No one, not even my family, ever listened to what I was saying. 

I took out my phone and snapped a picture. Yes, I was going to tell Daddy because this shit needed to stop.

“What are you doing?” A sharp voice cut through the air. 

And I turned around and was shocked at the beautiful, short brunette in front of me.

It didn’t take more than a nanosecond to see how this looked. I was tongue-tied, and my phone was out, pointed at the kids. This did not look good. 

Little Miss Beautiful was so not happy to see me.

Me, on the other hand … I couldn’t stop staring at her.

Chapter Four

Gabby

You only heard about these creeps on the news, or when you read about their latest victims. I’d never in my life seen one live in action. It was as if tiny spiders crawled over every inch of my body. And I’d never wanted to punch anyone in my life as badly as I did this man in front of me. Not even my ex-boyfriend.

“What are you doing?” I shouted. Because, hell yeah, everyone in this restaurant should hear what I was about to say. 

I’d been watching this guy for the last forty-five minutes, staring at my students from across the room. When he’d started following them, I wasn’t having it. 

He had his phone out and had taken a picture of my students. I wouldn’t let this get any further than that.

My nostrils flared, and my whole body flamed with fury. “I want to know why you are taking pictures of children.”

His eyes flickered to our surroundings and to the kids playing in the room. “It’s not what you think.” His brown eyes bulged, and he shook his head so hard that I was afraid he’d dislocate something. 

Well-fitted jeans. A Cubs T-shirt that clung to his chest, showing casing his arms. And a Cubs hat. He looked alarmingly normal, good-looking even. But so had Ted Bundy and look at how many women he’d killed.

I popped out a hip. “It’s exactly what I think.” 

Everyone’s attention was on us. The huge family at the far end of the room, the older couple in the corner, the group of teenagers just inside the game room. 

“Give me your phone.” I held my hand out as my whole body tensed.

“I will not.” He jerked back, looking at me like I was the crazy one. 

Gah! I wanted to punch his face and use my kickboxing skills so damn bad. 

“Delete that picture.” My voice increased with mounting rage as I stared him down.

He grabbed my arm and leaned in, speaking in a low tone, “Lower your voice, and I’ll explain.”

I shrugged him off and reeled back. “Get your filthy hands off me.” 

This had gone far enough. Even if he deleted the picture, these type of men were repeat offenders. He needed help or jail time. 

“I’m calling the cops.”

“What? No!” He panicked, gripping my elbow with more force this time.

“Get off me, jerkface! Now, I’m going to charge you with battery.” My eyes blazed fire, and it took all my composure to stay put and not go postal. I reached for my phone in my purse and dialed.

“Nine-one-one,” the female operator answered.

“I’d like to report a crime,” I said shakily, my rage getting to me.

Crazy Guy’s eyes went wide. “Woman, what are you doing?”

“Yes, I’m at Jack’s Pizza Place at the mall. I witnessed this older male stalk these children, walk in, and follow them to a table where he could spy. He watched them for forty-five minutes before he followed them to the game room where he took a picture of the kids.”

Crazy Guy flinched as if my words had hurt him. 

“Was there physical harm done to the children?” the operator asked.

I scrunched my face, and my voice lowered into the receiver. “Uh, no. But he took their picture.”

“Taking pictures is not against the law, ma’am. Are they your children?”

“No,” I spat out. This operator grated on my nerves. “They’re not. I’m their teacher, and for your information, I think you’re wrong.”

Crazy Guy clasped his hand over his head. “You’re their teacher.”

I ignored him. “Well, I want to press charges for assault then.”

“Assault?” He threw up both hands. “How the hell did I assault you?”

“You grabbed me despite my protests—twice.” I lifted my nose and shot him a look. “Assault.” 

  

 

Mia Kayla is a New Adult/Contemporary Romance writer who lives in Illinois. She is the wife to the husband of the year and mommy to three unbelievable cute little girls who have multiplied her grey hairs. 

In her free time she loves reading romance novels, jamming to boy bands, catching up on celebrity gossip and designing flowers for weddings.

Most of the time, she can be caught on the train with her nose in a book sporting a cheeky grin because the main characters finally get their happily-ever-after at the end. 

She loves reading about happy endings but has more fun writing them.

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