2022 Besties – Best Reads of 2022

White background with pink polka dots. 2022 Besties. The BFF Book Blog logo with an open book and two hands cheers-ing wine glasses over the book.

 

#1 – The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston

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This book was so good that as soon as I finished it, I immediately hit play and started the audio again. It’s not only my #1 for this year, but it’s high on my favorite books of all time!  Please read it. If you don’t love it like I did, don’t tell me, I want us to still be friends. ❤️

 

*Each of the images in this post link to Amazon. As an Amazon Affiliate, I receive a small commission on items purchased through these links.

#2 – Book Lovers by Emily HenryWhite background with pink polkadots. BFF Book Blog logo in upper left corner. #2 in bottom left. Book cover in bottom right.

 

This is one of those books that reinforces EVERYTHING I love about Romance Books! It’s absolutely delicious and everything I LOVE about reading romance books. It should not be missed!

#3 – Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This is a book that is so well written you almost forget it’s fiction and then you wish it would be true! I loved everything about this book and it confirms that Taylor Jenkins Reid can do no wrong in my book!

#4 – Ten Trends to Seduce Your Best Friend by Penny Reid

Clever, fresh, inventive and so well written. You’ll think about these characters long after the story is over! I love this book so much!

#5 – Space Series by Sara L Hudson

I devoured this series. It’s so much fun. Each story is better than the last. It’s fun and different and I loved each story more than the last. It’s full of smart women and the men who love them!

#6 – The STEM-inist Novellas by Ali Hazelwood

Another group of super smart female friends and the guys who love them! Ali Hazelwood is one of the best new voices in Romance and I can’t wait to read what she writes next!

#7 – Last on the List by Amy Daws

Amy Daws has come into her own. Everything she writes is better than the last and I am here for it all! I can’t wait for the mountain-man brothers who will start in the spin off of this story. The entire series is must-read!

#8 – Thank You for Listening by Julia Whelan

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Such a fun story that celebrates audio books and the narrators who create them. I adored this book and the characters. It should definitely make your TBR if you haven’t read it yet!

#9 – Nora Goes Off Script by Annabel Monaghan

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What should have seemed like a boring and played storyline felt new and fresh. I really really loved these characters both main and secondary. I was sad when this book was over and I’ll look for more from this author.

 

#10 – Scandalized by Ivy Owens

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Another story line that could have felt rehearsed and tired, but wasn’t! This book was fun and tugged on the heartstrings from start to finish! I loved it.

 

#11 – Lucky Leap Day by Ann Marie Walker

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#12 – Homecoming King by Penny Reid

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This is quintessential Penny Reid. Fun and heartfelt. It’s perfect for the fall/winter and I can’t wait to read Drama King!

 

#13 – Once Upon a December by Amy E. Reichert

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This book is full of Christmas Spirit! It is so clever and inventive. I loved this premise and these characters, I have thought about this book all through the holiday season.

 

All in all, 2022 has been an incredible year full of GREAT books! I could have added even more to this bestie list. If 2023 has half as many wonderful books, I can’t wait to see what’s to come!

I wish you all the very Happiest New Year and I hope 2023 brings love, health, prosperity, all of the happiness and great books!

 

 

 

Review – Happy Singles Day by Ann Marie Walker

Single and proud of it! Oh, oops…

As a Certified Professional Organizer, everything in Paige Parker’s world is as it should be. Perfect apartment, perfect office, perfect life. And now, the perfect vacation planned to honor Singles Day. After all, what’s better than celebrating her pride in being single? Because who needs a man anyway? They have zero taste in quality television, leave the toilet seat up, and sleep with your best friend. No thanks. Her life is fine just the way it is.

As the owner of a now-dormant bed & breakfast, Lucas Croft’s life is simple and quiet. It’s only him and his five-year-old daughter, which is just the way he likes it. Because who needs a woman anyway? They nag you to clean up your stuff, want the toilet seat put down, and expect the dishes to be done the same day the meal is cooked. No thanks. His life is fine just the way it is.

But when Paige books a room that Lucas’ well-intentioned sister listed without his knowledge, their two worlds collide. If they can survive the week together, they just might discover exactly what they’ve both been missing.

Buy Happy Singles Day on Amazon today!

 

BFF K’s Review of Happy Singles Day

This is the sweetest story! Ann Marie Walker has created absolutely realistic, believable characters, and plopped them in a stunning setting. Happy Singles Day is just the right mix of emotionally bruised hero and heroine, cute kid, puppies and cake and this story is an absolute dream to read!

There is tension and emotion and some really weighty things that both Paige and Lucas carry in their past. But, being thrown together to ride out a storm in a questionable B&B leaves them little choice but to get to know one another. It’s a delicate dance but they perform it beautifully discovering so much about themselves, each other and their capacities for both love and change.

The build up is great, but most of the steamy-ish scenes are pretty much fade to black. Though they certainly pack enough emotion that you don’t really miss the steam. The characters and settings are unique and lovingly-well-developed! I enjoyed Happy Singles Day immensely and highly recommend it for a Valentine’s Day read or any day you want to get lost in good story! ❤️

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

About the Author

Ann Marie Walker is the author of nine novels, ranging from romantic suspense to romantic comedy. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and ’80s rom-coms. Her superpower is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends, and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. You can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com, where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis, or Chewbacca, the Morkie who is kind enough to let her sit on his couch. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Review – Save the Date by Ann Marie Walker

The Wedding Planner meets The Bachelor in Save the Date, the third standalone laugh-out-loud rom com in the Wild Wedding series.
Save The Date by Ann Marie Walker is now available!
FREE with Kindle Unlimited

The Wedding Planner meets The Bachelor in Save the Date, the third standalone laugh-out-loud rom com in the Wild Wedding series.

Rebecca Halstead has never been a bridesmaid, but she can certainly relate to the expression “always a bridesmaid, never a bride.” As one of Chicago’s top wedding planners, Rebecca has had a front row seat to countless ceremonies, yet her own walk down the aisle has started to feel like nothing more than a little girl’s fantasy. She’s the wallflower who, thanks to a clean bill of health from her oncologist, wants to live life to the fullest. If only she knew how.

Brody Dixon hasn’t heard the word “no” since he was drafted by the NFL. With cover model looks and an arm that’s earned him two Super Bowl MVPs, Brody can have his pick of women. But as the next celebrity bachelor on American Sweetheart, both his agent and publicist want him to clean up his image before the show begins. If only he knew how.

Then fate, and an impulsive wager, bring these two opposites together until an unlikely alliance is formed. For the next two months, Brody will get a crash course in romance. In return, he agrees to help Rebecca break out of her carefully constructed shell. On paper it makes perfect sense. But as they struggle to teach each other, Brody and Rebecca just might discover that falling in love is the most important lesson of all.

 

BFF K’s Review of Save the Date

Save the Date is the best story in the Wild Wedding Series! I have enjoyed each of these books, but this one in particular was absolutely delightful and I’m thrilled to see Ann Marie Walker with a new release!

Brody and Rebecca are sweet and charming. Brody is a bit of a good ‘ol boy who has enjoyed his fame as a star in the NFL. He isn’t interested in settling down until he meets the right woman; and Rebecca is definitely the right woman. She’s independent, thoughtful, hard-working and kind. She’s not had the easiest life, but she doesn’t let that impact her outlook for the future.

The book carries snippets of a number of fun tropes: best friend’s sister, reality dating, fulfilling a bet/dare, helping someone take a walk on the wild side….And, it’s a tad predictable, but it’s really a joy to read. Things have been so stressful and strange lately, but this book was like a breath of fresh air. Once I hit 40% of this book, I couldn’t put it down, like stay-up-until-2:45a-couldn’t-put-it-down! It made me so happy and the ending was just dreamy.

If you’re looking for a fun read with endearing characters and a snappy storyline, save a date for Save The Date!

An advance copy of this book was received from the author. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Start the laugh out loud series today!
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About the Author

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Connect with Ann Marie!

Website — http://www.annmariewalker.com/
Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/AuthorAnnMarieWalker/
Newsletter — https://bit.ly/3cMlKd2
Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/annmarie_walker/
Bookbub — https://bit.ly/2zgcgrJ
Amazon — https://amzn.to/3e4h3vo

 

Excerpt – Icing on the Cake by Ann Marie Walker

Icing on the Cake

by Ann Marie Walker
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

Notting Hill meets The Prince & Me in Icing on the Cake, the second standalone laugh-out-loud romance in Ann Marie Walker’s Wild Wedding series

Cassandra Miller doesn’t have time for men. She’s far too busy trying to open a cupcake shop with her silent partner and best friend, not to mention catering her brother’s wedding. And let’s face it, it’s not like Prince Charming is going to stroll into the bakery and sweep her off her feet.

Henry has been a prince his entire life but for one wild wedding he wants to be nothing more than an “Average Joe”, or in this instance, “Average Hank”. However, when a case of mistaken identity and a batch of burned cupcakes ends in a night of passion, Cassie and Hank must decide if theirs is a recipe for disaster or the makings of true romance.

Visit the BFF Book Blog Facebook Page to enter to win an Amazon Kindle Copy of Icing on the Cake by Ann Marie Walker!

Read BFF K’s 5-Rated Review for Icing on the Cake!

(Spoiler Alert – she LOVES this book!)

 

Excerpt

He lifted his head and when his gaze met hers, he smiled. Shy and sexy all at once, Cassie knew without question it was the sort of smile that meant nothing but trouble. The kind that got him whatever he wanted. The kind that was absolutely irresistible.

And as if that wasn’t enough, he had the whole sexy accent thing going for him.

The stranger leaned closer, close enough for her to smell the faint scent of his soap. It was clean and yet a little spicy and made her want to lick his neck. Because yeah, that was something a perfectly sane woman would do.

The energy between them crackled with anticipation. Then again, maybe it was all in her head. Maybe she’d finally read one too many romance novels and her brain was permanently rewired to think every handsome stranger had the potential to be Mr. Right. Or at the very least, Mr. Right Now.

A beat of silence ticked between them offering her the perfect opportunity to play it safe, to explain what she actually meant and end the whole matter with an awkward laugh. But this handsome stranger had awakened something deep inside her and for once in her life Cassandra Miller didn’t feel like playing it safe. Instead she felt wild and reckless, and the last thing she wanted was to end the moment in any way at all. In fact, she wanted to prolong it, to suspend it in time like something from The Matrix. Then maybe she could even step back and watch from all angles because holy hell, this gorgeous stranger was going to kiss her. Right there. In the shop. With her hair up in a messy bun and flour and dough all over her hands. And what’s more, she was going to let him. So instead of playing it safe, Cassie lifted her chin just as he dipped his head and then . . . .

About Ann Marie Walker

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

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Enter to win a Royal Romance Pack + $25 Amazon Gift Card!

 

 

Review – Icing on the Cake by Ann Marie Walker

 

Icing on the Cake

by Ann Marie Walker
Publication Date: January 30, 2018
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iBooks

Notting Hill meets The Prince & Me in Icing on the Cake, the second standalone laugh-out-loud romance in Ann Marie Walker’s Wild Wedding series

Cassandra Miller doesn’t have time for men. She’s far too busy trying to open a cupcake shop with her silent partner and best friend, not to mention catering her brother’s wedding. And let’s face it, it’s not like Prince Charming is going to stroll into the bakery and sweep her off her feet.

Henry has been a prince his entire life but for one wild wedding he wants to be nothing more than an “Average Joe”, or in this instance, “Average Hank”. However, when a case of mistaken identity and a batch of burned cupcakes ends in a night of passion, Cassie and Hank must decide if theirs is a recipe for disaster or the makings of true romance.

 

BFF K’s Review of Icing on the Cake

Fun, sweet and beyond the standard trope of the Royal Romance, I loved Icing on the Cake and think this is Ann Marie Walker’s best story to date! The tale is charming and lol-funny and definitely one to add to your TBR!

Cassie and Henry are sweet characters. It’s so easy to invest in their happiness; and also to see that their greatest happiness comes when they’re together! Henry is anything but an “average Hank” and a name change certainly can’t mask his darling smirk and roguish charm. Cassie is drawn to him in a way she’s never been attracted to another man; and he feels exactly the same about her. In so many ways they’re able to be their true, authentic selves with one another. Even if Hank isn’t completely on the up and up.

I know that I’m not the only one counting down the days until Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will tie the Royal Knot. (110 days at the time this review posts live!) There’s something about a royal love story. Particularly when the heroine is a commoner AND an American – SWOON! If you’re patiently biding your time until the Royal-I-Do’s, Icing on the Cake is the perfect way to pass the time!

I think you’ll love Cassie and Hank’s story and cheer for their HEA! You should definitely one-click this one TODAY!

 

 

 

 

An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

Giveaway

Enter to win a Royal Romance Pack + $25 Amazon Gift Card!

 

 

About the Author

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

 

 

 

Review – Black Tie Optional by Ann Marie Walker

 

The Proposal meets Two Weeks Notice in Ann Marie Walker’s new standalone romantic comedy, Black Tie Optional, which New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Probst calls, “a fun, sexy romp that will keep every reader entertained!”

Everything about Coleman Grant III oozes power and sex. And not the perfunctory kind either, but the sheet clawing, heart stopping, gasping for air after you’ve screamed so loud you can’t breathe kind. From his dark wavy hair that stands in an artfully rumpled mess, to the blue eyes that sear your skin, to his full, sensual lips – on the surface he’s pure perfection.

Too bad he’s an asshole. An arrogant, uptight corporate raider hell bent on destroying the environment one species at a time.

Everything about Olivia Ramsey screams hippie humanitarian. From her blond hair tied in a sloppy bun, to her faded jeans with the Bonnaroo patch sewn on the thigh, to her combat boots still splattered with mud from the previous day’s site visit.

So it makes perfect sense that they would get married. In Vegas. Stone-cold sober. Cole needs a wife. Olivia needs to save an endangered species. But what starts as a marriage of convenience soon turns into a battle of wills and sexual tension. Love is a game, and Olivia and Cole are ready to win.

Buy Black Tie Optional TODAY!

AMAZON | B & N | GOOGLE | ITUNES | KOBO

 

BFF K’s Review of Black Tie Optional

rating_5_80

Black Tie Optional is an absolute delight! Ann Marie Walker has delivered a laugh out loud page turner with fun and quirky characters that will have you ready for more the minute you turn the final page!

Olivia and Cole are total opposites. She’s an activist vegetarian, trying to save the world one species at a time. He’s a hard-nosed billionaire out to prove to the world that his success is his own. They couldn’t be more different. And those differences are the spark that lights a fuse. Throughout the book they go from enemies to frenemies to frenemies with benies and more. Their personal progressions and the development of their relationship is such a fun ride!

Black Tie Optional will have you giggling at the thoughts in Olivia’s head and her crazy antics (hello Vegas!) And, you’ll love Cole’s straight-talking, no nonsense approach to everything. The two of them together are so much fun! Black Tie Optional is a great escape and everything you look for in a Rom Com! I can’t wait for more in the Wild Wedding Series!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.
dual point of view

Excerpt

Chapter One

          Just like clockwork, Olivia thought. She watched the gas-guzzling SUV roll to a stop alongside the curb, its hazard lights blinking as if some sort of justification for bringing a full lane of Chicago’s morning rush hour to a grinding halt. Every day the sleek black car stopped in exactly the same location so the almighty Coleman Grant III could get the same extra hot, double shot Americano from the same big-chain coffee shop, bypassing the smaller, neighborhood establishments trying to stay afloat as corporate America runs them into the ground.

            A mountain of a man in mirrored aviator shades jumped out of the front seat to open the rear door, giving Olivia a clear view of the luxury vehicle’s interior. Two leather captain’s chairs with fold down keyboards and armrest tablet holders sat facing several television monitors mounted above what appeared to be a full-service bar.  Forget running a business, it looked as though Coleman Grant ran NASA from his back seat. Honestly, what could possibly be so important that it couldn’t keep until he got to the office? The commute from his Gold Coast penthouse to his Loop headquarters was less than two miles. Hadn’t the guy ever heard of just chilling out with some tunes?

            Olivia approached the car just as Grant climbed out of the back seat. He paused to button the jacket of his navy blue Tom Ford and for a moment she forgot he was an arrogant, self-righteous prick hell bent on destroying the environment one species at a time. For a moment, she allowed herself to take in the physical perfection standing in front of her. From his dark wavy hair that stood in an artfully rumpled mess, to the blue eyes that seared her skin, to his full, sensual lips – everything about Coleman Grant oozed power and sex. And not the perfunctory kind either, but the sheet clawing, heart-stopping, gasping-for-air-after-you’ve-screamed-so-loud-you-can’t-breathe kind. But then his eyes narrowed and his lips curved into a knowing smirk and Olivia remembered exactly who she was dealing with.

            “Mr. Grant,” she began.

            The bodyguard moved to step between them but Grant waved him off. “Ms. Ramsey, what a surprise,” he said, not at all surprised since this was the eighty-third day in a row she had approached him. Not that it mattered. She had no plans to stop these sidewalk sessions until he either agreed to her demands or filed for a restraining order.

            He made his way toward the coffee shop with Olivia tight on his heels. “You know, most people simply make an appointment with my assistant.”     

            “I’ve tried that, Mr. Grant. But for some reason your schedule is always full.”

            “Pity,” he said, his voice void of all emotion. When he reached the glass doors, he yanked one open. “Please, after you.” 

            Bastard. Normally he charged in like he owned the place, never mind if she or anyone else got a face full of door. How dare he try to throw her off her game by acting chivalrous. As if the man had a courteous bone in his body. Olivia stood frozen in place, debating how best to handle this latest twist in their balance of power. As she did, Cole’s gaze raked her from head to toe, from her blond hair tied in a sloppy bun, to her faded jeans with the Bonaroo patch sewn on the thigh, to her combat boots splattered with mud from the previous day’s site visit.

            She hated to admit it, but the scrutiny of his gaze was unnerving. And it wasn’t just the laser like focus. There was something about his expression, as if he wasn’t looking at her fully clothed in a shop brimming with customers, but rather undressing her with his eyes. She shifted in place, debating if she should call him out for his piggish behavior or simply stick to the topic at hand.

            “Suit yourself,” he finally said, stepping through the doors and leaving her alone on the sidewalk. 

            Not so fast. She took a deep breath and joined him at the service counter.  “Mr. Grant, as I’m sure you’re aware, the northern long-eared bat was recently granted protection as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.”

            “Rather difficult to forget given your daily reminders. Although I must say, Ms. Ramsey, you disappoint me. No visual aids today?” He turned away from the counter with his extra hot, double shot Americano to find Olivia standing behind him with an 8 x 10 glossy in her hand.  “Ah, it seems I spoke too soon.”

            “This particular species of bat has been the most impacted by white-nose syndrome and the resulting decline in their numbers is what—”

            “Those really are the most vile creatures,” Grant interrupted. “Have you ever considered taking up the cause of a more appealing animal, say a manatee?”

            “There aren’t any manatees in Lake Michigan.”

            “Precisely.” He smirked. “Perhaps you could move? I’m sure you could find some poor, unsuspecting Floridians worthy of your attention.” He raised his left hand and for the first time Olivia realized he was holding a second cup. He thrust it in her direction and without thinking she took it, dropping the photograph as she did. “You seem like the type who would order your latte with a hundred and one specifications, but hopefully skinny vanilla will do.”

            Olivia blinked. He bought her a coffee? What the actual fuck? Did he really think he could charm his way out of the hot seat? She had spent her entire adult life and most of her teens speaking on behalf of those who couldn’t. It was going to take a lot more than a few random acts of fabricated kindness to get her off his back.

            She was about to tell him not only where he could stick his latte but how in her twenty-eight years on earth she’d never ordered a “skinny” anything, when he turned toward the door. She bent to scoop up the photo then hurried after him, fast talking her case all the way to the curb where his bodyguard stood waiting with the door already open. As usual, Grant didn’t say a word, much less defend his stance. Instead he simply flashed a grin that would have made her drop her latte, not to mention her panties, if she didn’t find him to be lacking in not only morals and ethics but quite possibly a soul.

            He gave her a quick nod before ducking into the car.  “Until tomorrow, Ms. Ramsey.”

            With that, the door slammed shut and the SUV pulled into traffic to the sound of protesting horns.

            “Asshole,” Olivia muttered under her breath. “Gorgeous asshole, but still.” She turned on her heel and started down the street with her head held high. Coleman Grant III might have been trying to make a mockery of her attempts to persuade him, but their standoff was far from over. A slow grin curved her lips as an idea began to take shape. She’d just pulled her smartphone out to send herself a reminder when it began to vibrate in her hand.

            “Are you bringing your swimsuit?” her best friend asked before Olivia had even managed a hello.

            “To the desert? You’re joking, right?”

            “I wasn’t sure.”

            “Cassie, I know you’ve had your head buried in cookbooks for the past few years but surely you can remember how a vacation works…lounge chairs, suntan oil, blended drinks with tiny umbrellas that make you say ridiculously inappropriate things to cabana boys.”

            “I have never said anything inappropriate to a cabana boy. And that’s sexist by the way.”

            “Cabana person?” Olivia laughed at her own joke. “I’m playing. But you’ve got to lighten up a bit. We’re headed to Vegas, Sin City, what happens there stays there and all that.”

            “You sound like a tourism ad.”

            “All I’m saying is you better be ready to party Hangover style.”

            Cassie snorted. “Yeah, cause that worked out so well for them.”

            “I promise I won’t leave you stranded on a hotel roof.”

            “This is a bad idea. I should be staying here and looking for a job.”

            “You’re the sister of the groom. You can’t very well ditch out on the bachelor/bachelorette festivities. Besides, if I can break my ‘Harass Coleman Grant’ streak for a few days, then you can certainly give the stand mixer a rest.”

            “How’s that going by the way?”

            Olivia groaned. “New day, same story. ”

            “Maybe it’s time to—”

            “Move on? No way.” While it was true that working freelance allowed Olivia a certain amount of latitude, she prided herself on never giving up. There was no way Coleman Grant was going to blemish her perfect record. “I’ll just have to double my efforts.”

            Cassie laughed. “I’m actually starting to feel sorry for the guy.”

            “Don’t be fooled by the looks. He might be hotter than Ryan Reynolds and Ian Somerhalder combined, but underneath that perfect exterior beats the heart of an ogre.”

            “Sounds like someone has wet panties.”

            “Why Cassandra Miller, is that smutty talk I hear coming out of your mouth? There may be hope for you yet.”

            “Don’t change the subject. You’ve got the hots for this guy.”

            “Hardly. He’s eye candy all right, but he’s also a spoiled, self-centered asshole who think it’s his way or the highway. Not this time though.” Olivia nodded to herself. One way or another he was going to give in to her demands. Coleman Grant III had finally met his match. He just didn’t know it yet.

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About the Author

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy books about sexy boys. She’s a fan of fancy cocktails, anything chocolate, and 80s rom-coms. Her super power is connecting any situation to an episode of Friends and she thinks all coffee cups should be the size of a bowl. If it’s December she can be found watching Love Actually but the rest of the year you can find her at AnnMarieWalker.com where she would be happy to talk to you about alpha males, lemon drop martinis or supermodel David Gandy. Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

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Cover Reveal – Black Tie Optional by Ann Marie Walker

Black Tie Optional

Everything about Coleman Grant III oozes power and sex. And not the perfunctory kind either, but the sheet clawing, heart stopping, gasping for air after you’ve screamed so loud you can’t breathe kind. From his dark wavy hair that stands in an artfully rumpled mess, to the blue eyes that sear your skin, to his full, sensual lips – on the surface he’s pure perfection.

Too bad he’s an asshole. An arrogant, uptight corporate raider hell bent on destroying the environment one species at a time.

Everything about Olivia Ramsey screams hippie humanitarian. From her blond hair tied in a sloppy bun, to her faded jeans with the Bonnaroo patch sewn on the thigh, to her combat boots still splattered with mud from the previous day’s site visit.

So it makes perfect sense that they would get married. In Vegas. Stone-cold sober.

Cole needs a wife. Olivia needs to save an endangered species. But what starts as a marriage of convenience soon turns into a battle of wills and sexual tension. Love is a game, and Olivia and Cole are ready to win.

Amazon     B&N     iBooks     Kobo     Google Play

 

 About the Author

 

Ann Marie Walker writes steamy contemporary romance and is co-author of the Chasing Fire series (Remind Me, Release Me, Reclaim Me). Ann Marie attended the University of Notre Dame and currently lives in Chicago.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Author Links

Review – Embrace Me by Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers

EMBRACE ME
A Chasing Fire Novella (#3.5)
Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers
Releasing September 20th, 2016
Berkley Intermix

Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair’s heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.

Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy…


It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way…

Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle…

Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he’s determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own…

Praise for the Chasing Fire trilogy
“Exceptional…Seriously sexy andsinfully steamy. Can’t wait for more from this writing duo!”–New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me
“Walker and Rogers strike the perfect balance between blistering physical desire and heartfelt connections…”–RT Book Review
Releases Tomorrow – Pre-Order Now

Review

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Embrace Me by Ann Marie Walker and Amy K Rogers is the wedding gift presented to all of the fans of the Chasing Fire Series. This book is the bright red bow tied to the top of the package; and, this is still one of BFF K’s favorite series!

Embrace Me begins with Allie and Hudson deciding to renew their wedding vows with family and friends to witness and celebrate the occasion. Allie finds the entire wedding planning process stressful and overwhelming. So, Hudson does what he does best….He comes to Allie’s rescue and surprises her with the answers to all of her problems. Of course, after a wedding comes a honeymoon. And, this one has all of the romance and steam we expect from this series!

Embrace Me is the conclusion to Hudson and Allie’s story and you really have to read the entire Chasing Fire series first. For maximum enjoyment, this should not be read as a stand-alone. There is not much plot or action in the story, but there is a LOT of ACTION! <<Wink, Wink!>> Be prepared for a CRAZY amount of sexy time! And, a sweet and steamy conclusion to the love story of Allie and Hudson Chase!

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An advance copy was received in exchange for an honest review.

AND – If you want to immerse yourself in all things Hudson Chase, join BFF K in the #HudsonChasers group on Facebook!

Hudson Chasers Facebook Group

Excerpt

Hudson spun to face her and within seconds Allie was in his arms, the hard planes of his body crushing her against the alley’s brick wall. Both hands framed her face as Hudson sealed his mouth over hers. His tongue pushed passed her lips, taking her in a lush, deep kiss she felt echo to her very core. Allie’s hands found their way into his hair, her fingers twisting through the dark waves, trying in vain to hold him to her when he broke their kiss.

His face hovered mere inches from hers. “You’ve been a bad girl tonight,” he rasped.

Just those few, roughly spoken words had her heart racing with excitement. Hudson was in control and she wouldn’t have it any other way. In the boardroom she stood her ground, going toe to toe with her stubborn husband on a wide range of issues. But in the bedroom he was her dominant lover and although there was a time she would have never considered such behavior a turn on, there was no denying the effect it had on her. There was a freedom in surrendering herself to him, a liberating sense of self unlike anything she’d ever experienced. With Hudson she was able to let go of her inhibitions and explore the wanton lust only he could evoke.

A soft moan escaped her lips as he ran his tongue up the column of her throat.

She hadn’t expected him to show up at her bachelorette party and had certainly never imagined him dragging her out of the club cave-man style. But there he was, touching her, kissing her, and all she could think about was how badly she wanted him.

“Did you enjoy having those men rubbing themselves all over you?” The hard ridge of his erection pressed against her though the soft fabric of her skirt. Behind them a muffled bass beat a hypnotic rhythm through the club’s darkened windows. It pounded through them, urging her to grind her body against him.

“It’s only you Hudson. It’s always been only you.”

“You can prove it to me when we get home.” He stepped back, leaving her warm and wanting, to reveal their limo idling behind him. He reached for the handle and gave the door a hard yank. “After you.”

Allie slid across the leather bench with Hudson close behind. Before he had even settled onto the seat she was in his lap. “We don’t have to wait until we get home.”

 

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Authors

Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers.
Amy K. Rogers

 

Ann Marie Walker

Start the Chasing Fire Series Today!

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes| Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Remind Me

 

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Release Me

 

Available Now

 

Teaser Tuesday – Embrace Me by Ann Marie Walker & Amy K Rogers

The BFF’s are THRILLED to bring you this HOT Teaser Tuesday post for Embrace Me!
EMBRACE ME
A Chasing Fire Novella (#3.5)
Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers
Releasing September 20th, 2016
Berkley Intermix

Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair’s heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.

Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy…


It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way…

Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle…

Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he’s determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own…

Praise for the Chasing Fire trilogy
“Exceptional…Seriously sexy andsinfully steamy. Can’t wait for more from this writing duo!”–New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me
“Walker and Rogers strike the perfect balance between blistering physical desire and heartfelt connections…”–RT Book Review
Pre-Order Now

Excerpt

Hudson emerged from the water and caught Allie around the waist as she popped up. He took her mouth and thrust his tongue between her lips, their kiss flavored with the salt of the sea. Her arms looped behind his neck and her fingers teased the hair at his nape. He pulled her closer and she made a soft moan as she went lax against his body. She was his wife, his best friend, his lover, and his most valued treasure. She was the one who gave him strength in his most vulnerable of times, and who silenced the memories that haunted his mind. She had, in a sense, freed him from the darkness. They had freed each other.

 

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Authors

Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers.
Amy K. Rogers

 

Ann Marie Walker

Start the Chasing Fire Series Today!

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes| Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Remind Me

 

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Release Me

 

Available Now

 

 

Teaser Tuesday – Embrace Me by Ann Marie Walker and Amy K Rogers

EMBRACE ME
A Chasing Fire Novella (#3.5)
Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers
Releasing September 20th, 2016
Berkley Intermix

Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair’s heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.

Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy…


It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way…

Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle…

Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he’s determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own…

Praise for the Chasing Fire trilogy



“Exceptional…Seriously sexy andsinfully steamy. Can’t wait for more from this  writing duo!”–New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me
“Walker and Rogers strike the perfect balance between blistering physical desire and heartfelt connections…”–RT Book Review  
 
Pre-Order Now

Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo

Excerpt

Every nerve in Allie’s body sprang to life, responding to Hudson as though he was right in front of her, not miles away. Even from that distance she could feel the attraction that pulsed between them, a magnetic pull drawing her to him. This was the power he had over her, one she was helpless to resist even if she’d wanted to. A hum of anticipation built inside her as the plane swooped low over the tranquil water, and by the time they landed she was more than ready for whatever Hudson had in store for her.

 

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Authors

Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers. 
 
 
Amy K. Rogers

 

Ann Marie Walker

Start the Chasing Fire Series Today!

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes| Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Remind Me

 

Available Now

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo | GooglePlay

BFF K’s Review of Release Me

 

Available Now