Black love and romance

Recently, an article came out saying that a particular new author is what black women have been waiting for as far as black romance.  As to not mis characterize their words, I will post exactly what was said and why I have a problem with what was said.

First the byline
"Jasmine Buillory Gives Black Women The Book We've Been Waiting For"

First of all, how is an unknown giving us something that we've had for years.

"but since the early 2000s, major publishers have released few romance novels written by Black women with Black women protagonists" and "Black women who love romance novels have had limited options."

Obviously whoever did the so called research on this article did a horrible job.  Harlequin has had it's Kimani line since 2005 , not to mention before that, there was BET Romance and Arabesque.   The article mentions authors like Terri McMillan and Trisha Thomas, but neglects to mention many of the pioneers and greats like Beverly Jenkins, Brenda Jackson, Donna Hill, Rochelle Alers just to name a few.  

And the final nail in the coffin
"With her forthcoming novel, The Wedding Date, first-time author Jasmine Guillory might be the Black woman who revitalizes the genre"

And again, how does something need to be revitalized when it's been around for years.

I could go on and on, but I've decided instead to just show you that black love and romance is alive and thriving.  This list does not have every African American romance writer, but when I'm finished, you will have a lot to choose from.    And it won't end with just this month.  I plan to do a themed post each and every month with African American authors for each theme for that month.  For the month of February, It's all about Black Love and Black Romance.  Some authors will be featured several times throughout the year, and my goal is to try to give you one of their most recent releases.  Today's list is in no particular order of favorites.  

First off, several new releases are out today

1)  An Unexpected Valentine by Sherelle Green

Miami’s steamy fashion and beauty scene is finally taking notice of Nicole LeBlanc. She’s just landed a coveted gig as lead makeup artist and hairstylist on a series of Valentine’s Day commercials being shot in Hollywood. And once she locks eyes with the seriously sexy creative director, she’s certain he could fulfill her own secret romantic fantasies. Too bad Kendrick Burrstone doesn’t do relationships, despite their over-the-top chemistry.

After being burned by love, Kendrick lives by two unbreakable rules: dodge Cupid’s arrow and never mix business with pleasure. But both on and off the set, Nicole’s fiery touch is tempting Kendrick to take another chance. Until a vindictive ex and a nasty extortion plot ignite a media frenzy that could end his rising career…and cost him the heart of the sweetest and most passionate woman he’s ever met.

http://amzn.to/2GEJcsY

2)  Be My Forever Bride by Martha Kennerson

It was like something out of a fairy tale: being swept off her feet, then eloping with her one true love, Houston oil tycoon Brice Kingsley. Then a devastating diagnosis and a threat from her past forced Brooke Smith Kingsley to leave the man she loved. Now she has a chance to make things right, but only if she can keep her secret—and her distance—from her irresistible husband.

Though he couldn’t accept Brooke’s reasons for running away, Brice never gave up on her or their marriage. And with the beautiful tax attorney back in his life, reigniting passion stronger than before, he can’t bear to let her go ever again. Even as a revenge-seeking blackmailer schemes to bring down the Kingsley empire, Brice will fight for their future—a love that’s for now and forever.

http://amzn.to/2FBSLHS

3)  Tempest by Beverly Jenkins (AKA Aunt Bev, The Queen of Historical Romance)

What kind of mail-order bride greets her intended with a bullet instead of a kiss? One like Regan Carmichael—an independent spirit equally at home in denims and dresses. Shooting Dr. Colton Lee in the shoulder is an honest error, but soon Regan wonders if her entire plan to marry a man she’s never met is a mistake. Colton, who buried his heart along with his first wife, insists he only wants someone to care for his daughter. Yet Regan is drawn to the unmistakable desire in his gaze.

Regan’s far from the docile bride Colton was expecting. Still, few women would brave the wilds of Wyoming Territory for an uncertain future with a widower and his child. The thought of having a bold, forthright woman like Regan in his life—and in his arms—begins to inspire a new dream. And despite his family’s disapproval and an unseen enemy, he’ll risk all to make this match a real union of body and sou

http://amzn.to/2E5JWZx

4)  Awaken Me (The Holmes Brother Book 6)

As the baby of his family, Reid Holmes has happily played the role of the Charming, Irresponsible One. But as his 30th birthday approaches, Reid wonders whether he should be doing more with his life than working as a plumber for Holmes Construction. Now he has the chance to shed his carefree playboy image and go into business for himself, but is leaving his cousin’s construction company a sign of growing up, or the ultimate show of disloyalty? And with the arrival of Holmes Construction’s gorgeous new site coordinator, Reid isn’t sure now is the best time to jump ship.

When her father is forced to close the family’s longtime handyman business, Brooklyn LeBlanc sees her chance to break free of the job she’s been stuck in since age 15 and finally pursue her dream of writing comics. But responsibilities—and her secret role in the demise of her family’s business—forces Brooklyn to again put the career she truly desires on the back burner. At least her new job at Holmes Construction comes with a hot plumber she can spend the day fantasizing about. But what happens when her harmless workplace crush awakens feelings that aren’t so innocent?

http://amzn.to/2GCMxJ5

5)  When I'm With You (The Lawsons of Louisiana) by Donna Hill

Longtime New Orleans bachelor Rafe Lawson is finally ready to tie the knot. His heart has been captured by gorgeous senator’s daughter Avery Richards. Then the media descends, jeopardizing her Secret Service career—and their imminent wedding. But it’s the unexpected return of Rafe’s first love that could cost the tycoon everything.

http://amzn.to/2BMqv2Y

6)  Breaking All the Rules by Rhonda McKnight

Some rules are made to be broken…

Deniece Malcolm is shocked and heartbroken when she finds out her baby sister, Janette, is marrying Terrance Wright, because she was the one who was supposed to marry him! Everybody knows there’s a rule about dating exes. Janette is pregnant and not only is this wedding happening, but Deniece has to arrange the festivities. 

Deniece’s feelings and pride are hurt, but surprisingly, Terrance’s younger, sexier, cousin, Ethan Wright, is there to provide a listening ear and a strong bicep to cry on. Ethan’s interested in Deniece, but she has a rule about dating younger men. Despite her resistance, things heat up between them and Deniece begins to wonder if it’s time to break a few rules of her own.

http://amzn.to/2GEPrNq

7)  Desire in a Kiss (The Chandler Legacy) by Nicki Night

Ambitious, charming and heir to a food empire, Christian Chandler has no problem meeting women. If only more of them could see beyond his family’s fortune… On impulse, he creates a fake dating profile and quickly connects with petite powerhouse Serenity Williams. She’s smart, down-to-earth and ignites his fantasies from their first encounter. He has to tell her who he really is. But how can he admit the truth to a woman for whom honesty is everything?

Serenity has transformed her life—dropping a lying ex and starting her own nonprofit—and is finally ready to date again. Online, “Chris Mullins” is perfect. In real life, he’s even hotter. From extravagant dates to black-tie balls, Serenity’s falling fast…and then devastated to find she’s been taken in by another fraud. To rekindle their trust, Chris must prove that what they share is the deepest passion she’s ever known…

http://amzn.to/2DTlBmC

8)  Mended with Love by Unoma Nwankwor

“He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.” Psalm‬ ‭147:3‬

Bad boy and celebrated soccer star, Kamal Danjuma is the youngest of the Danjuma brothers. Unlike his brothers, he handled his abandonment issues quite differently. His whole career is driven by the need to prove his absent father wrong. Recently however, his career has been plagued with erratic decisions and health issues. A return to the United Kingdom to play in the Premiere League, where it all started for him, is just what will erase the disaster of his last season in America. He has one goal in mind; remind the fans and team management why they love Kammy Danjuma.

Ebele Ashiedu is months away from earning her Bachelor’s degree. Growing up without her father, left her insecure and unable to decipher how a man should treat her. The result? A seven year detour that has made her media leery. Through the grace of God, she's back on track. Now all that matters is finishing school, establishing herself and helping her mother out. She has no room for distractions.

A mix up in seating arrangements, bring these two together. An injury and a father's rejection force them to deal with their pain and insecurities their complicated pasts have created. Will they make it past the unmasking to get to their happily ever after ?

http://amzn.to/2rYFuY1

9)  The Bittersweet Bride by Vanessa Riley

Widow Theodosia Cecil needs a husband to help protect her son. The former flower seller turned estate owner posts an ad in the newspaper, and no one is more surprised than she when her first love, the man she thought dead, reappears.

Ewan Fitzwilliam has been at war for six years. Now, the second son of a powerful earl is back but his beloved Theo needs a husband and will not consider him. She believes Ewan left her—in desperate straits—so she denies the feelings she still harbors for the handsome, scarred soldier. Theo and playwright Ewan must overcome bitter lies and vengeful actions that ruined their youthful affair. Theo must reveal her deepest secret in order to reclaim the love that has long been denied.

http://amzn.to/2DUtYhG

10)  Song of Solomon by Kendra Norman

At age forty-five, Dr. Neil Taylor is an eligible bachelor, living a seemingly satisfied existence as a deacon of his church and director of Kingdom Builder's Academy. Despite outward appearances, however, Neil harbors secret pains that have caused him to erect a well-constructed wall of defense around his heart.
Everything changes when Shaylynn Ford, a beautiful young mother, strolls through the doors of his office. There's a marked difference in their ages, but the years that separate them are the least of Neil's worries.
Neil is certain that Shaylynn is his God-given soul mate, but even with all the prayers in the world, how can he get her to love him when she's already wearing a wedding ring?

http://amzn.to/2EwxT5x

11)  Playing with Seduction (Pleasure Cove) by Reese Ryan

As the reigning queen of competitive beach volleyball, Brianna Evans wants her career to go out with a bang. And what better send-off than a signature tournament sponsored by an exclusive high-end luxury resort? But Bree’s heart could end up on the line. Her partner on the project is the irresistible man with whom she shared one perfect night in London…and never heard from again.

After great UK success, premier event promoter Wesley Adams is glad to be back on his North Carolina home turf. Until he discovers the collaborator on his next joint venture is the flawless beauty he spent an unforgettable evening with more than a year ago. Wes wants to finish what they started, but he can’t risk derailing the project or hurting Bree. And when they finally give in to their growing passion, will a terrible secret from his past and an escalating threat from Bree’s cost them their second chance?

http://amzn.to/2ExR8M1

12)  Interview with Danger by Lisa Watson

When Sasha Lambert's debut novel, The Passport Diaries, hits the bookstores it quickly becomes a bestseller. Her ex-boyfriend, and Greek tycoon, Milo Georgopoulos, believes one of the characters in the book sheds a not-so-positive light on his own extracurricular activities. He gives Sasha an ultimatum: Ditch the book or else. 

http://amzn.to/2FCvrJQ

13)  A Place For My Heart ( Encounters of the Heart Series ) by Ann Marie Bryan

Crushed by heartache and desperate for an escape, he makes a life-changing choice.

When Chandler Peynard staggers into Sabrina Benjamin’s life, he is desperate for an escape route. Battling feelings of isolation, he has erected barriers around his heart, often times leaving a trail of broken dreams behind him.

Sabrina’s happily-ever-after was ripped away months ago, but she hasn’t given up on finding love. Still, she is caught off guard by her feelings for Chandler, a man who could hardly be described as a model man of God. As an unexpected bond develops between them, she wants more—a lot more than Chandler is prepared to give, because falling in love and putting down roots are not a part of his plan.

Touched by Sabrina’s kindness and faith, Chandler makes a life-changing choice; however, complication is inevitable when the past he’d thought was long buried, pushes him to confront matters he would have given anything to forget. As he struggles to release himself from his past and embrace the future, he offers Sabrina a place in his heart, but she demands all of it.

In a season that has brought so many changes, Chandler longs for peace in his soul and yearns for love. Will he trust God with all of his heart in order to overcome his past? Will he be able to testify that God’s grace wins every time? Will he find the strength to take a chance at life and love with Sabrina

http://amzn.to/2s3cm1K

14)  Soaring on Love (Cardinal House) by Joy Avery

When her engagement party is crashed by her fiancé’s mistress, Tressa Washington will do anything to escape the disastrous aftermath. Even stow away in the back of a guest’s SUV. And when she tells Roth Lexington to “just drive,” the handsome aerospace engineer does exactly that. In his snowbound mountain cabin, mutual attraction ignites a scorching affair…

Roth has three rules: never be vulnerable, always wake up alone and stay in control. Thanks to Tressa, he’s broken them all. One beautiful, sensual night becomes many, but once they leave their haven behind, mistrust and meddling exes intervene. Soon he faces a choice: watch this stunning, adventurous woman walk away or finally let his guard down. Roth will quickly learn that in order to reach the heights of love, you have to be willing to fall…

http://amzn.to/2DTH4vJ

15)  Best Laid Plans by Brenda Jackson

Love wasn’t supposed to be a part of the deal…

Even a famed matchmaker like Nolan Madaris’s great-grandmother can’t get it right every time. Nolan, the notorious fun-loving ladies’ man, could never connect with someone as straitlaced as tech whiz Ivy Chapman. Yet the scheme Ivy proposes is tempting—they can pretend to be a couple, just long enough to satisfy their families.

But someone forgot to clue in their hearts

What happens, though, when Ivy’s plan to get her relatives off her back has an unexpected side effect: getting her into Nolan’s bed? Houston’s number one womanizer may have found the only one who can truly satisfy him, body and soul. But with a man from Ivy’s past determined to be part of her future, both she and Nolan will have to decide what’s fake, what’s real and what’s worth fighting for…

http://amzn.to/2E6mDyR

16)  It's Always Been You (The Jackson's of Ann Arbor) by Elle Wright

Newly minted Dr. Lovely “Love” Washington plans to devote her medical career to helping women. But her own happy ending eludes her. Then one morning she wakes up in a Vegas hotel under the sheets with the very familiar and extremely charming Dr. Drake Jackson. The longtime best friends didn’t only become overnight lovers. They got married, even if neither remembers tying the knot. And Love is tormented by sizzling memories of the passion-filled night they shared.

Matters of the heart have always fascinated Drake. Now the aspiring cardiothoracic surgeon and in-demand playboy must confront his growing feelings for his oldest, most alluring, off-limits friend. Amid a disastrous family reunion and the unwanted attention of Love’s persistent ex-boyfriend, the newlyweds are digging themselves deeper into a deception that has to end. Or does it? Has Drake finally found what’s been right in front of him all along—the true Love of his life?

http://amzn.to/2EvgvxQ

17)  To Tempt a Stallion by Deborah Fletcher Mello

Orthopedic surgeon Nathaniel Stallion is ready to put down his scalpel to pursue his real dream—opening a restaurant in Carmel, California. He’s even hired a top-notch marketing guru to ensure his success. But Rebecca “Bec” Marks isn’t the unassuming buddy he remembers from college. This Bec is confident and wreaking all kinds of havoc on his libido. Now his best friend’s sexy curves have him thinking less about a publicity strategy and more about carnal seduction…

Bec has had eyes for Nathaniel from day one. And regardless of Nathaniel’s naivety to her not-so-innocent schoolgirl crush, her ardor for the tempting newly crowned restaurateur remains intact. This time around she’s determined to win his heart for good. But when a rival beauty and Bec’s meddling ex-fiancé threaten her romantic plans, she’ll pull out all the stops to convince this Stallion that his soul mate has been right in front of him all along.

http://amzn.to/2s2GTNb

18)  Strategic Seduction by Cheris Hodges

Alicia Michaels needs a major career reboot, so she’s got no time for romance. But starting over in Atlanta is an uphill battle for the cautious PR rep—especially after she teams up with wealthy Richmond Crawford on a make-or-break project. For one thing, the risk-taking entrepreneur is nothing like the staid businessman he used to be. For another, she and Richmond can’t see  eye-to-eye on anything—except that the reckless attraction between them is sizzling, off-the-charts trouble . . . 

Playing by the rules got Richmond betrayal from his rich family—and shattering heartbreak. He’s got to prove he can be his own man, so keeping things strictly-business with Alicia is the smart play. Still, even their conflicts only make Richmond want more of her honesty and courage. But a shocking revelation will endanger everything they’re fighting to build. And making things right could be the final deal breaker .

http://amzn.to/2EvJQIr

19)  Breathe Again by Adrienne Thompson

Life for twenty-seven-year-old Maria Brown consists of living in her tiny hometown, working the same job she's held since high school, and shouldering the responsibility of caring for her father. She's lived a contained life for so long, she knows no other way to exist.

The moment NFL star, Malachi Douglass, lays eyes on Maria, he knows she's the woman he's been praying for and embarks on a journey to tear down her walls and make his home in her heart. Maria's become accustomed to suffocating within the boundaries of her small life. Maybe Malachi is just what she needs in order to learn how to breathe again.

http://amzn.to/2DSuYmr

20)  On Fire by Patricia Sargeant

A love this hot knows no rules ...
A High-Stakes Lesson ...
Charleston Times reporter Sharon MacCabe has worked hard to move from intern to full-fledged journalist. So when a series of arson fires across the city turns into a string of murders, she’s ready to investigate. But her excitement soon turns to disappointment when her boss gives the assignment to a senator’s nephew. Determined to prove herself, Sharon decides to probe the case on her own. But first she’ll have to gain the trust of Charleston’s new fire captain ...

... In Love And Trust
Matthew Payton has reason to be wary of reporters. As a firefighter in Pittsburgh, the press falsely accused him of arson in a blaze that killed his sister. Now he’s trying to bury that painful chapter and start over. When Sharon insists on collaborating, Matthew is suspicious yet also attracted to this lovely, tenacious young woman – and the feeling is mutual. As the two work closely together, Matthew finds his defenses breaking down, and his heart opening up. But their growing intimacy is about to be threatened when they discover they are pawns in a corrupt political game, one that may cost them their love – and their lives ...

http://amzn.to/2s2rgFc

21)  Forbidden Attraction: A Bachelor of Shell Cove/Fiery Fairytales Crossover Novella (Forbidden Series Book 2) by Siera London

Recently divorced, Sarah Jones no longer looks forward to the cupid and candy holiday. With her shattered heart and designer swimsuit in tow, she plans a little vacation to Adventure Cove Resort and Spa. It’s just the respite she needs from inquiring minds. 

Quiet and brooding, Deputy Lance Stevens wants to be left alone with the pain of his past mistakes, but his family has other ideas. This contrived vacation is another family intervention he plans to squash, that is until Sarah zips into his life. 

What’s meant to be Sarah’s escape turns into a steamy attraction to a man who’s too young, and too determined to get what he wants-her. Lance is forbidden in more ways than one and Sarah is harboring a secret that could destroy more than their budding romance. What happens when Ms. Jones realizes there’s more than a Valentine’s Day fling going on?

http://amzn.to/2GDoqtG

22)  The Betting Vow (Unconventional Brides Romance) by KM Jackson

Leila Darling is past done with the supermodel thing, especially the mega-parties and high-profile flings that have done nothing but leave her alone and jaded. She’s got the talent to be a serious actress, but the industry sees her as a high-maintenance, impulsive party girl with a reputation for leaving men in the dust—especially TV producer Carter Bain. 

Carter’s had his eye on Leila for years, so when a bet gives him a chance to get close to her, he accepts. With the goal of getting Leila the image makeover she needs and Carter the star he desires, the game is on. Get married and stay married for six months. If Leila lasts, she gets her pick of his A-list roles. If Carter wins, she’ll take the hot sidekick part he’s offered. 

But as their “I do” turns up all kinds of heat, Leila and Carter find they have more in common than they ever imagined. Are these two prepared to put business aside and surrender the ultimate prize, their hearts?

http://amzn.to/2DSVYCo

23)  BlindSided ( Relative Ties book 2)  by JL Campbell

Gordon Raimes is used to having things his way and is a man on a mission. When his fiancée leaves him standing at the altar, he's blindsided by her desertion. Embarrassment is the last thing on his mind, but family matters. He's been a man in charge all his life--charming, decisive, and forceful. Caroline's retreat, and subsequent disappearance, forces him to question his methods. When he's unable to get her to communicate, he pulls out all the stops to fix what's wrong between them and get the woman of his dreams to the altar, where she belongs.

Caroline Byrd is living her dream--following her passion and looking forward to life with the man at the center of her world. Then family problems, involving the law, turn things upside down. There's no way a man like Gordon can understand what she's going through, and she cannot risk embarrassing him and his family any further. Her plan to disappear fails because Gordon refuses to cooperate, but Caroline knows it's a matter of time before he discovers her secret. Has she given up too quickly on the man she loves or will he prove her suspicions true?

http://amzn.to/2DSzgKz

24)  Secret Places Revealed by Paulette Harper

He wasn't looking for love.
She was running from the pain.
One encounter changed it all.

Single—and very content—real estate developer Aaron Blackman is determined not to become involved in another relationship. He’s experienced enough drama to last a lifetime. The only thing garnering his attention now is his growing business. And he plans to keep it that way. Then Simone Herron waltzes into his life, beautiful and confident. Fighting to keep his promise to himself—to remain single—he soon discovers that when it comes to love, some promises must be broken.

After losing her fiancé in an untimely death, Simone Herron relocates. She desperately needs to put the past behind her and start a new chapter in her life. While love is the farthest thing from her mind, she experiences an attraction to the handsome Aaron Blackman that frightens her. She's built a wall around her heart, but can she find the strength and courage she needs to welcome love again? To do so, she must conquer her fears and allow God to put all of her broken pieces back together

http://amzn.to/2DVGNrV

25)  Broken Clocks by Danielle Allen

According to my grandma, a broken clock being right twice a day meant that in any given situation, perfect timing only happens twice.

I fell for William Grayson in a matter of minutes. The connection between us was undeniable, but our timing was off. I was dating someone and by the time I was single again, he was taken. And a year later, when we finally got together, it was clear that we were soulmates. But circumstances out of our control cut our time short.

We were a little older, a little wiser, when our paths crossed again. I was entering a new phase of independence in both my career and my life. He was growing professionally and moving to a new city. And even though our timing was off, it was still clear that we were soulmates. But for the second time, circumstances out of our control cut our time short. 

My grandma was a wise woman, but my love life taught me that there’s no such thing as perfect timing.

There’s just timing… Because nothing is perfect. 
There’s just right now… Because tomorrow isn’t promised. 

For as long as we’d known each other, William and I just wanted to be together. It was as simple and as complicated as that. 

http://amzn.to/2EzDc4c

26)  The Swan: The Seventh Day: The 12 Days of Christmas Mail Order Brides Book 7 by Piper Huguley

A beautiful woman with secrets comes to Noelle to confront a powerful person with the truth...and only six days left to save the town.

Avis Smith is willing to go to Noelle to marry a man she doesn’t know in order to avenge a fourteen year wrong--her abandonment to a life of misery and abuse when she was just six years old. In order to get to Noelle, she has to lie about who she is, but her thirst for vengeance is so strong, she transforms herself into the pious, beautiful bride that JD Jones wants. Still, she never expected to be abandoned at the altar. 

His work as an abolitionist and fighter for justice will not allow storekeeper Liam Fulton to turn his back on the beautiful woman his archenemy is willing to leave at the altar. He figures a way to help Avis out of her predicament, offers to showcase her in his store so that other potential grooms in Noelle will see her and might want to marry the young woman with the long and elegant neck. 

When swans mate, they mate for life. When Liam offers to help Avis, he never expects that in working with her to find a resolution to her problem, he discovers a fierce need to protect her. Avis doesn’t know that she might find something better than what she was looking for--a new way to a family and bonds of a strong and life-long lasting love.

http://amzn.to/2ExzEQ0

27)  Worthy of Love by LaCricia A'ngelle

Everyone was excited about Christian and Shelby Tyler's surprise nuptials, except Iris Tyler, Christian's mother. Iris sees Shelby as nothing more than a gold-digger ready to cash in on the wealth her son has worked so hard to attain.

While Iris plots to destroy Christian and Shelby's marriage, billionaire Vincent Garrett enters her life, igniting passion that Iris wasn't prepared for. Will her new-found love change Iris' opinion of love at first sight, or will her desire to end her son's marriage cause her to miss out on a love of her own?

http://amzn.to/2GF4XIX

28)   Love's Serenade (Decades: A Journey of African American Romance Book 3) by Sheryl Lister (Book 3 in The Decades Series, One book a month for 12 months featuring a book in each decade by African American Authors and featuring African American Characters.)

Escaping an arranged marriage, Leigh Jones flees her southern hometown for Harlem's vibrant jazz scene to pursue her dream of becoming a singer. She finds more than she expected, namely Miles Cooper. The smooth-talking musician walked out on her three years ago, taking her music and her heart with him. Leigh has no intentions of falling for Miles or his charms again, until he tempts her with the one thing she can’t resist: a recording contract. But when her past comes calling, she realizes Miles is the one person who can save her from a man who won’t take no for an answer.

Miles isn’t one for putting down roots or staying in one place for longer than a season. Yet, memories of Leigh's sultry voice, beauty and sass make him long for the life and love he forfeited. Having walked away once, but never again, Miles sets out to prove he's a changed man willing to go to any lengths to protect his woman. He's determined to show Leigh, one passionate note at a time that the music they make together will last a lifetime.

http://amzn.to/2GEYais

29)  Good Old Soul by Aja (Erotic Romance)

If I were to tell you I wrote a story about a May/December love affair between music and a saxophone named Her, would you believe me? I didn’t think you would but it’s true. Music has been here since the dawn of time. It’s been the melody of life, unfettered, free, and always waiting for us to-dare I say-tame it and guide it with our voices and with our instruments. The musician may have picked up the sax and breathed air into Her, but it was from the music, the jazz that was created, that love was found and where it grew. 

Amina Perrin isn’t looking for love. In fact, she isn’t looking for anything. She’s got her yoga, her massage therapy and the community she serves, keeping her plenty busy. That is until she bumps into a stranger who may change her free-spirited mind.

Gabriel Slade is living the good life. Financially secure, nice condo overlooking the city, and the occasional “drink” with a beautiful woman—he has no intention on getting caught up, especially not with one so much younger than him, but here he is… getting all caught up and picking up a long forgotten saxophone he calls Her.

If you’re opposed to sweltering love scenes between two passionate adults, this book isn’t for you.

http://amzn.to/2GFTicS

30)  Phire: I'm Just Saying (Gems & Gents Book 8) by Iris Boiling

Growing up in a family of overachievers isn’t easy for feisty co-ed, Sapphire Lassiter. With eleven older brothers and sisters, they all have opinions on what she should do with her life. Phire, as everyone called her, of course, has other plans.

No one promised you rainbows and sunshine. Lawrence Trent Palmer never forgot those words for they molded his life. LT, as he prefers to be called, became a multi-millionaire before the age of thirty. This granted him the means to accomplish his life’s mission: Vengeance.

He had a plan until, a fight, a dance and a woman changed it all.

After pulling Phire from a confrontation during a political event, captured on camera, LT is warned to stay away by her larger than life brothers. The feel and vision of her in his arms would not allow him to just let go. Feisty, opinionated, and unforgettable, Phire had his mind on marriage, family and a different kind of future.

With Phire at his side LT’s plan for vengeance is off, until the past stokes the flame and threatens the life of the woman he would kill—even family—to have—I’m Just Saying.

http://amzn.to/2nAo8Lt


31)  Like A Brother by Maurice M. Gray

Jeremiah McAllister lost his entire family before he turned eighteen, but was blessed with another one. As the oldest of more than a dozen young adults mentored by CC Dawson and her husband Thurman, Jeremiah takes his role as oldest brother within their chosen family seriously. To his siblings, he is confidante, emergency contact, babysitter and family ATM; whatever they need, he provides, no questions asked. However, some among them push his largesse to its limits.

Jenisse Anderson uses Jeremiah as a surrogate man on her arm for social events when she's between boyfriends and as her personal 911 (she calls him to help her deal with anything she deems an emergency). Despite Jeremiah's consistently being there for her, she will neither reciprocate nor discuss his feelings for her, or even deal with the issues of her past.

Erik Dawson (CC and Thurman's only biological child) is currently estranged from his parents, and uses Jeremiah as a go-between so he knows they're okay and vice-versa. Jeremiah's repeated pleas for Erik to go to his parents and reconcile fall on deaf ears. Between Jenisse and Erik and the constant requests from the others, Jeremiah is pulled in too many different directions all at once.

As he reaches his breaking point, Jeremiah finds himself at a crossroads in his life. How can he break out of an emotional prison he didn't even realize he was in until recently? Can he face his own history in order to embrace a better future?

http://amzn.to/2nAwp1T

32)  Sometimes Love by Victoria Kennedy

Zoë Browne is on top of the world. She is her own boss, has a business partner who doubles as her best friend, and enjoys the security of a loving, supportive family. All that's missing is her Prince Charming--someone to save her from her happy but loveless life, just like in the pages of her beloved romance novels. When a knock on the door brings her face to face with her would-be hero, Humphrey Pearson, an arrogant but attractive curator with a chip on his shoulder, Zoë soon learns that love isn’t always meant to save the day; sometimes love is meant to change your life.

http://amzn.to/2E7yP2o

33)  The Spirit Mate Series by EJ Brock  (Book 1 in the Series)

BROCK is by far the most powerful “Ultimate” Watcher to roam the earth. Bound by duty and love, he has spent centuries living in the shadows, protecting God’s so loved…..humanity from his evil demon brethren.

JODI is a college professor who has been abandoned by her husband, family and friends. She has lost faith humanity and has no interest in establishing a new relationship. But when she walks upon Brock, in the park, both their worlds are changed. But is that change for the better?

Jodi is Brock’s ‘Spirit’ Mate. She’s the one woman whose blood promises to extinguish the fiery darts of his demon within. Nothing will keep him from claiming her. But can she risk it? Are her wounds too deep?

Unknown to both of them, Brock’s enemies are gathering in mass. In hopes of delivering a devastating final blow to him, Jodi becomes their number one target.
How far will he go to save his “Spirit” Mate’s? Will Brock rescue Jodi in time for his own REDEMPTION?

Their contemporary love story is fraught with new found self worth, spirituality, sexuality and fierce bloody battles.

http://amzn.to/2E6X68N

34)  For Always: A Donovan Friends Novel  by AC Arthur

Opposites attract…for better and for worse.

Fitness guru, Tyler West’s life comes crashing to a halt with the news of his parents’ death. Now, he’ll be reunited with his brother on his family’s land as they debate the fate of the ranch. And when the charming interior designer arrives to update the home before sale, the former stress of returning to his hometown takes a back seat to the passion he finds in her arms.

Gabriella Bennett’s first career assignment has her nervous and excited. As the youngest of the prestigious Bennett family she’s determined to succeed in spite of her family’s doubts. But the moment the sexy cowboy hat-wearing owner kisses her, she knows that all is lost.

Desire sparks quickly and burns fiercely between them, so much so, that neither of them notice the threat to their lives…until it’s too late.

The Donovan Friends Books (in reading order)
Guarding His Body
Summer Heat
Winter Kisses
A Christmas Wish (part of the Under the Mistletoe anthology)
Always My Valentine
Always In My Heart

http://amzn.to/2FE2UDF

35)  Prayers Answered by Christmas by Pat Simmons

Christmas is coming. While other children are compiling their lists for a fictional Santa, eight-year-old Mikaela Washington is on her knees, making her requests known to the Lord: One mommy for Christmas please. Portia Hunter refuses to let her ex-husband cheat her out of the family she wants. Her prayer is for God to send the right man into her life. Marlon Washington will do anything for his two little girls, but can he find a mommy for them and a love for himself? Since Christmas is the time of year to remember the many gifts God has given men, maybe these three souls will get their heart s desire.

http://amzn.to/2s2R3NP

36)  Room Service by Rochelle Alers

New Yorker Jasmine Washington had a successful interior design business, a high-powered marriage, and a chance at motherhood—until her perfect husband betrayed her big-time. Now starting from scratch, the Asian and African-American stunner is tackling a lifetime opportunity: co-managing her friend’s new luxury inn about to open in the Garden District. The last thing Jasmine needs is romance. New Orleans' most eligible bachelor, investment banker Cameron Singleton, begs to differ. 
 
Cameron challenges Jasmine’s cautious ways, teases her back into having real fun—and makes one sexy, utterly irresistible Mr. Right Now. But their passionate nights soon result in a surprise bonus. . . . Even though Cameron insists on being there for Jasmine, can she really believe his love is the real thing? Can she shake the past and design a completely new life? And is there really only one way to find out?

http://amzn.to/2E52itH