Author Spotlight: Evangelist and Minister Jamesina Greene

This has been in the works for a while, and with everything that has been going on, I felt it was the right time to put it out.  This post is to spotlight authors that don't have a strong following, but are important to the literary community.  Today's spotlight is Author, Evangelist and Preacher, Jamesina Greene.  Let's get to know a little more about her.

HC:  How did you get started on your literary journey

JG:   I have always loved to read. With this love for reading, I began to write down things as a way to deal with life. I began writing book manuscript; plays and poems as a teenager.

HC:   How has your faith helped you endure your illness
; 
JG:   My Faith has served as an anchor during these last few years with multiple Chronic Illnesses. When my circumstances seem unstable, my Faith is the Foundation upon which I stand.

HC:   In your spare time, which authors are on your TBR list

JG:  Oh my! I read just about any genre, so it is difficult to just list a few.HC:  What is your favorite underappreciated book

HC:   Tell us about your organization, A Mother's Cry? How did it come About?

JG:  Many years ago, I began to pay attention to the fact that so many of my Son’s friends had Mothers who were barely involved in their lives. The majority of these young men were being raised by single Mothers. They didn’t attend their sons Sports Events and at times these boys would stay at my house and there would be no calls from Mom asking about them. Observing this for a period of time, I felt the need to organize a Forum to address the needs and concerns of the Mothers so that they could be the very best versions of themselves.  Thus, “A Mothers Cry” was birthed.

     HC:  How long have you been writing?

JG:  I have been writing about 40 years. I have written several Non-Fiction Mini Books as a way to exercise the Writer in me. I began writing a Novel, but “life” happened and I haven’t completed it yet. Prayerfully, it will be completed this year.

     HC:  What is the most difficult part about writing for you?

JG: The most difficult part about writing, for me, is to just write. I have a habit of proofreading and editing as I write.

HC:  What is the most surprising thing you discovered while writing your book(s)?

JG:  So far, the most surprising thing that I have discovered while writing is that I write more eloquently than I speak.

HC:  Have you ever thought of writing in a different genre?

JG:  Yes, I have thought of writing in other Genres, Fiction and Romance.

HC:  Tell us about your first published book? What was the journey like?

JG:    My first published book is, “Help, I Don’t Like Myself!” It was written as a result of my being admitted into a Mental Health Facility and the ongoing Therapy Sessions, etc. As expected, it was a very challenging experience to revisit the myriad emotions that writing stirred up. I published this book through a Publisher I met in GA, but after that experience, I decided to self-publish.

HC:   Favorite quote (doesn’t matter the source)

JG:  There are A LOT of quotes that inspire and motivate me, but one of my favorite is, “Broken Crayons Still Color.” I considered myself to be a culmination of broken pieces and yet, my brokenness is what makes me unique and valuable.

HC:   Favorite book/story you have read as an adult

JG:  As and Adult, I think my favorite book would be, “The Hand I Fan With” by Tina McElroy Ansa.

HC:   Favorite book when you were a kid

JG:  As a Child, I loved the “Little House on the Prairie” books.

HC:   What Piece of advice would you give an aspiring author?

JG:  I would encourage an Aspiring Writer to write, write, write and to find THEIR Voice and don’t be afraid to use it. Be inspired by others, but be YOU.

HC:   Where can readers purchase your books?

JG:  Currently, my books are available on Amazon, under Jamesina Greene and Jami Greene.

HC:  How can readers follow/keep up with you?

JG:  Readers and follow and keep up with me on: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and via email: destne2017@gmail.com

FACEBOOK PAGE:
https://www.facebook.com/jamee.greene1?ref=br_rs
AMAZON PAGE:
https://www.amazon.com/JAMESINA-GREENE/e/B00AB7K3I6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1588187739&sr=8-1
ORGANIZATION PAGE:
https://www.facebook.com/A-Mothers-CRY-156170247759211/?__tn__=kCH-R&eid=ARCLWKqp1khJ30R8rxEkvp_HI7114loDoUTaNgDb50SjN5blN9KmtQoBPBzo_dV_qFXv-9zj9ToI_M20&hc_ref=ARRsczJC0yWHqengxtew5vRj2Bthy1bepqq7fBlBbwAPXa-ABFAKW0U4MkcTvnBXn8c&fref=nf&__xts__[0]=68.ARBZyIdNwczAFUFDkNQszkyGR0ZlrCTFd8zIrUggxwFT1ZmY13mz_8zJTTI8LPX24J9RoMBhMRZ08SFrWY6BGJssf-WWPqUDPPfY3PYs8O_bOhqEpPxZzw-zM-HxFERFsPZwDwLExbbO-leFLixOlZ1Ou27KsgyzaWEzO4MaOJTWoBWvbf-73iXSNeWC4V97LtGcYAqNAlzXwZHcskQETiOkU32-ZEWtUyHn81P56NNBr4GtOaL3ZlSbT-phHj8ue98CJdpV2VVl2btQ-xGcgqenOMm8KlIbyIR9PlejwP8Pd12Q32hzp90zsmex8oOprBB5wlbGLurG9qgr

WINNING HER BY AMBER MALLOY

In the span of a year, Bane Carter acquired a new job, his brother’s four kids, a crappy nanny and, worst of all, his ex-wife. What could possibly go wrong?

Rule number one—never help an ingrate! Ignoring that hard-learned lesson put Dahl Baby Hamilton straight in the path of her famous ex. All she has to do is save her cousin’s failing restaurant, First Down, then she can go back to her fabulous life. But the main financier—Bane Carter, her ex—finds out and decides to make her life a living hell. Either she becomes the personal chef for an ailing house manager, one neglectful nanny and his four charges or risk having her reputation ruined. What’s an award-winning chef to do when her sexy ex-husband is blackmailing her?

The only black GM in the league, former football hero Bane Carter has his work cut out for him. It’s bad enough that he has to navigate around a dysfunctional team, but the recent passing of his brother and his wife have given him full guardianship of their kids. On top of all that, the last thing he needs is to bump into the woman who broke his heart at the worst possible time—the beginning of his career.

After two failed marriages, Bane realizes he has always been searching for the one who got away the first time. Of course, he doesn’t expect to find her in the same city, let alone cooking in his restaurant.

AVAILABLE ON

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EXCERPT

From the minute Dahl Hamilton had stepped into First Down’s kitchen, she’d worked nonstop. Tasked with fixing the failing restaurant, she’d barely seen the inside of her fabulous downtown loft, let alone her sweet, sweet bed. After having labored in the kitchen for more than two months, she was finally seeing all her hard work paying off.

The Chicago Tribune and Sun-Times, among other publications, had awarded First Down stellar reviews. Since the papers had hit the newsstands, customer attendance had shot up by more than fifty percent. If everything worked out, she could leave before autumn to work on more personal projects.

As Dahl topped off the dessert plate with her ‘D’ embellishment, the incessant ringing of someone’s cell caught her attention. That was a definite no-no in the kitchen. She requested the name of the offender.

“Marco!” the kitchen staff of twenty screamed in unison.

“You know the deal.” Before Dahl plated one perfect, mouth-watering slice of tiramisu cake, she pointed at the fine jar. The funds went toward their holiday festivities. At this rate, First Down’s Christmas party would be one for the history books.

“Smaller cuts,” she advised her assistant at the next station over. The restaurant had a full house, so the staff needed to move fast to keep up. During all the chaos, she found time to teach the newbies a trick or two. “Use your wrist. No one wants to bite a chunk of onion on their first date.”

Breaking her signature snicker-cookie in half, she placed it on top of the whipped cream ruffle.

“Hello, Dolly. I wanted to make changes to the menu.” The office manager, Beth, breezed into the kitchen. “Can we talk out back?”

She slapped the woman’s hand away before she could grab the leftover half of the cookie. “It’s just ‘Dahl’…and no.” She’d taken this consulting gig to help out her cousin. Nothing in the fine print read that she had to take orders from their idiot manager.

“We can’t go outside—or we can’t change the menu?” she asked in that snooty, superior tone.

Dahl handed the dessert off to the server and faced Beth. “To both… It’s no to both.”

“But Melanie told me to tell you—” Dahl held up her hand to kill the twit’s whining. She didn’t have the time. Instead, she went back to the orders. Soon the team would be able to catch their own mistakes. Busy checking the tickets against the meals, she missed the hush that fell over the kitchen. The usual clanging of pots and silly banter flipped into a strange vacuum of silence.

“Why are you here?” His deep, steely voice sent tingles up her spine. Dahl gazed at the six-foot-seven wall of well-dressed, muscled sexy.

Against her will, she smiled. “Hi,” she said.

Better looking than any action star, Bane’s good genes were wasted on football, in Dahl’s opinion. He should have gotten out years ago, but nope… Little boys grow up to be big men with dreams that become everyone else’s nightmares.

“Once again, why are you here?” Bane Carter asked. Her ex-husband smelled amazing.

“That’s a loaded question, Mr. Carter. I’m going to need an assist.”

“What?”

“Maybe rephrase…” She wiped her hands on her apron and leaned against the counter. “Are you asking why am I in Chicago, why am I in the restaurant or why am I still breathing? The throbbing vein in the middle of your forehead is screaming that it’s the latter.”

Stepping closer, he filled in the space between them. “Pick one through three,” he growled.

Unable to hide her nerves, she laughed. The attack of childish giggles overwhelmed her. It often happened at the most inopportune times and she couldn’t help it. His handsome face went blank before he abruptly turned and walked away. As general manager for the Mavericks football team, Bane probably didn’t get challenged very often—or most likely ever.

He turned and left, as quickly as he’d come. Dahl sighed. After all these years, she’d thought she was over him. “Okay, everyone, back to work!”

“Was that Bane Win—?”

“Yep,” she cut off her sous chef in an effort to deter any more questions.

“Did anyone notice how fast Bad-management Beth dipped out when he came in?”

The team laughed—but Dahl didn’t join them.

ABOUT AMBER MALLOY

Amber Malloy dreamed of being a double agent but couldn't pass the psyche evaluation. Crushed by despair that she couldn't legally shoot things, Amber pursued her second career choice as pastry chef. When she's not writing or whipping up a mean Snickers Cheesecake, she occasionally spies on her sommelier. Amber is convinced he's faking his French accent.

CONNECT WITH AMBER

AUTHOR SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

My Review

Bane and Dahl were married at one point, but split due to Bane's stubbornness.  Years Later, Bane is the only man of color that is an owner of a football team, and is trusted to take care of his deceased brother's children, and conjoles his ex, now an award winning chef to help him.  

I'm not normally a big fan of sports romances, but this one was very good.  It's a second chance romance, and the way it started off with their background worked very well in this story.  The author tackled several other issues throughout the story and did it very well.  And although both of them are strong professionals, the relationship still worked.  And the relationship Dahl had with the children was extremely life like, especially with the little one.  I will be looking for more stories from this author.  

Guarding Temptation by Talia Hibbert Release Blitz and Review*-

GUARDING TEMPTATION: A DIRTY BRITISH NOVELLA BY TALIA HIBBERT

Protective. Obsessive. And rough around the edges.

James Foster knows the rules: you don’t fall for your best friend’s little sister. Nina is too young, too reckless, and too busy saving the world to be tied down by the commitment he craves.

If he was smart, he’d stop wanting her. But she’s the one thing on earth James just can’t quit.

Fierce. Principled. And impossible to resist.

Political campaigner Nina Chapman is sick of one-time things. She wants forever, and she wants it with her brother’s best friend—but James still sees her as a child to be coddled.

So when a radical article lands Nina in hot water, she quickly finds herself under his protection and under his roof. It’s a shame James doesn’t want her in his bed, too.

…Or does he?

Warning: this red-hot novella contains one radical leftist heroine, one over-protective hero, one annoying childhood nickname, and a shared apartment with only one bed. Also, Brexit. But not too much, I promise.

Please note: a version of Guarding Temptation was previously published as Resisting Desire in the Rogue Nights anthology. This version has been revised and expanded to double its previous length.

AVAILABLE ON

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My Review

I enjoyed reading the book.  If you're looking for a hot steamy, sexy read, this is the book for you.  It was one of the few books I've been able to read recently without stopping.  I especially loved the aspect of Natalia falling in love with a childhood friend of her brother.  I also loved how much James was an Alpha Male and exhibited a strong manliness about him.  This was a very good read, and I plan to see what's in store from this author next.  

READ FIRST TWO CHAPTERS

ABOUT TALIA HIBBERT

Talia Hibbert is a USA Today bestselling author who lives in a bedroom full of books. Supposedly, there is a world beyond that room—but she has yet to drum up enough interest to investigate. She writes steamy stories of passion, love, and sarcasm, then hawks them online because she just can't help herself.

CONNECT WITH TALIA

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Queen Move by Kennedy Ryan Cover Reveal

QUEEN MOVE BY KENNEDY RYAN

Queen Move, an all-new beautiful and unforgettable second chance romance from RITA® Award-winning and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Kennedy Ryan, is coming May 26th and we have the stunning cover! 

The boy who always felt like mine is now the man I can't have…

Dig a little and you'll find photos of me in the bathtub with Ezra Stern.

Get your mind out of the gutter. We were six months old.

Pry and one of us might confess we saved our first kiss for each other. 

The most clumsy, wet, sloppy . . . spectacular thirty seconds of my adolescence.

Get into our business and you'll see two families, closer than blood, torn apart in an instant.

Twenty years later, my "awkward duckling" best friend from childhood, 

the boy no one noticed, is a man no one can ignore.

Finer. Fiercer. Smarter. 

Taken.

Tell me it's wrong. 

Tell me the boy who always felt like mine is now the man I can’t have. 

When we find each other again, everything stands in our way--secrets, lies, promises.

But we didn't come this far to give up now. 

And I know just the move to make if I want to make him mine.

**QUEEN MOVE WILL HAVE THE SPECIAL PRE-ORDER AND RELEASE WEEK PRICE OF $3.99. AFTER THAT, THE PRICE WILL INCREASE.**

PREORDER TODAY!

AMAZON | APPLE BOOKS | AMAZON WORLDWIDE | NOOK | KOBO | GOOGLE PLAY

ADD TO GOODREADS | BE NOTIFIED FIRST WHEN QUEEN MOVE IS LIVE

Cover Designed by Asha Hossain Design
Photography by Sophia Barrett Studios
Model: Lashae Dennie

ENTER TO WIN

Cover Celebration Giveaway! Enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card and a signed paperback of Queen Move.

CLICK HERE

ABOUT KENNEDY RYAN

Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller and RITA® Award Winning author, Kennedy Ryan, writes about women from all walks of life, empowering them and placing them firmly at the center of each story and in charge of their own destinies. Her heroes respect, cherish and lose their minds for the women who capture their hearts.

She is a wife to her lifetime lover and mother to an extraordinary son. She has always worked with charity and non-profit organizations, but enjoys raising Autism awareness most. A contributor for Modern Mom Magazine and Frolic, Kennedy’s writings have appeared in Chicken Soup for the Soul, USA Today and many others. The founder and executive director of a foundation serving Atlanta Autism families, she has appeared on Headline News, Montel Williams, NPR and other media outlets as an advocate for families living with autism.

CONNECT WITH KENNEDY RYAN

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NEVER MISS A RELEASE

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Author and Book Spotlight: Larue Fitch

My name is Larue Fitch and I'm an educator out of Chicago, Illinois. I was born and raised in Kankakee, Illinois. 

I just completed my first self-published book titled, "Breaking the Education Code". 

My professional journey as an educator began as an elementary school teacher. For seven years, I worked with scholars in grades 4 through 8, teaching science, literacy and math. During my time in the classroom, I was fortunate to develop relationships with scholars who provided a safe environment for them to grow and develop academically. Scholars remained engaged in the learning process, which also supported their success on multiple assessments.

As a teacher, I always looked forward to communicating openly with parents. It was always the highlight of my experience to share with the parents the academic and social growth their child made throughout the school year. Leadership opportunities began to open up within my school and I became the Science Lead Teacher. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was the ability to work with my peers. Productive teamwork is critical to a thriving school culture. This collaboration led to some positive changes in our school’s teaching practices along with an established alliance between teachers and administration.

Seven years later, I entered the role of Assistant Principal and Resident Principal in Chicago Public Schools (CPS). As Resident Principal in a CPS elementary school, I was the administrator in charge of Restorative
Justice and our Data-Driven Instructional Cycle. Through the implementation of Restorative Justice practices, the percentage of out-of school suspensions decreased by 31 percent for African-American children. By implementing
effective Restorative Justice practices, I was able to effectively work closely with our teachers and families to build a culture where scholars were able to take ownership of their academic and social performances without being distracted by infractions that would impede their progress. 

Currently, I’m an Administrator in Illinois. In this role, I work collaboratively with teachers, scholars, and families.

Breaking the Education Code

In the words of Samuel L. Jackson in the movie, “Coach Carter,” where he said, “I took this job to effect change in a special group of people.” That was my saying as a new and vibrant teacher in 2007. I’ve witnessed the crimes that were destroying our youth in the city of Chicago. After witnessing these acts, I decided to become a school teacher to assist in the restoration of our community. I believed that it was time to destroy the system that has plagued us for centuries. It was time to inspire and encourage our youth to make better decisions. It was time to put education at the forefront of America’s agenda for our youth. It was time to go far and beyond to ensure that all scholars had equitable opportunities in the classroom. It was time to address the system that has kept us in the harsh conditions where we weren’t made to survive. It was time for me to become a voice for the less fortunate. And, NOW is the time for a new approach to teaching!

The ancient Greeks described time as Chronos and Kairos. Chronos is sequential and chronological, while Kairos is a critical and opportune moment. The title of this resource manual is, “Breaking the Education Code.” I chose this title because it’s time for us to understand and acknowledge the need for diversity in education. We need to awaken to the changes that have to occur to best service our scholars. This book is comprised of some of the best practices and strategies that I’ve implemented as an instructional leader. Right now in education, we are in the Kairos moment. It’s time for us to understand the need for diversity in education and how our curriculum should reflect the different styles of learning that happens in our classrooms. Ideally, our first step is to embrace the diversity that is occurring in various forms in America. I believe that public education is the cornerstone of democracy and if we create a learning environment that reflects the belief that all scholars can learn and be successful, then we will truly give scholars the opportunity to become college-and career-ready.

Instructional Portfolio

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1auKg7ai2b1_1CU7uOoICeowgKheYaTGB?usp=sharing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N7iad7CvQ_s&t=256s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7TmUCQKWF9E&t=551s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SXaR9tZJgdc

Book Review: On the Corner of Hope and Main by Beverly Jenkins

Title:  On the Corner Of Hope and Main (The Blessing Series, Book 10)
Author:  Beverly Jenkins
Genre: Women's Fiction
Rating:  💜💜💜💜💜

Welcome back to Henry Adams, a small town founded by free African Americans.  Trent July, descendent of the original founders has been the mayor for several years, but want's to pass the mantle.  several people are running to take his place, , some for the betterment of the town, (including a former marine and his wife) and some for scrupulous reasons (Percy and Theo).  Who will decide the future of Henry Adams.  Bernadette, who bought the town (off ebay, no less) has to decide if she wants to give former beau, Mal July another chance and let him back in to her life. 

I love this series, and this book doesn't disappoint.  I had to truly force myself to put it down so I could sleep.  To me there was just enough drama and excitement to keep me interested without going over the top.  I also enjoy seeing the relationship between Bernadette and Mal.  It is probably a very good idea to read several of the older books in the series so that you won't get too lost when reading this one.  I would definitely read any future books in this series. 

Link for Purchase
https://amzn.to/3cAJ3Xq

New Release Book Blitz: Secret Heir Seduction by Reese Ryan

SECRET HEIR SEDUCTION BY REESE RYAN

Can he tell her the truth…this time?

Will he risk everything for a reunion? Will she give him the chance?

Discovering he’s a long-lost heir isn’t the only surprise awaiting Darius Taylor-Pratt in Royal, Texas. He’s next door to his ex after five long years. Darius broke off his red-hot relationship with designer Audra Covington without explanation. He still has regrets…and truths he’s hiding. Rekindling their flame may cost him…especially when new secrets surface to threaten their second shot at seduction.

AVAILABLE ON

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ADD ON GOODREADS

EXCERPT

Darius took another of the wedge fries, swiped it in the milkshake and popped it in his mouth.

It was something people over the age of twelve usually found repulsive. But today, he deserved to indulge himself.

“A bacon cheeseburger, fries and a strawberry shake. I was going to ask if it was a really good day or a really bad one, but then you dipped your fry into your shake, so I guess that answers that.”

Darius froze, then turned toward the familiar voice. His eyes widened.

“Audra Lee Covington?”

No, it isn’t possible.

What would his grad school girlfriend be doing in Royal, Texas?

“So you do remember me.” She folded her arms. “I wasn’t sure you would. After all, you never returned my calls.”

Remember? He couldn’t forget her if he tried. She’d been his biggest regret. The woman who still haunted his dreams.

He stared at her, blinking. Still not sure he could believe his eyes.

She was stunning, as always. Her dark wavy hair was tucked behind her ears and fell to her shoulders. Gold-and-diamond starburst ear climbers decorated the outer curve of each ear. She wore a cream-colored, chunky-knit sweater and distressed skinny jeans that hugged every curve. And there was a small, star-shaped diamond stud in one nostril.

“Audra.” He stood, wiping his hands on a napkin. He inhaled her sweet scent as they shared an awkward hug. “What on earth are you doing here?”

“Good to see you, too,” she said sarcastically as she stepped away, folding her arms again. Her lips pressed into a harsh line as she narrowed her gaze at him.

If looks could kill, he’d be laid out on the black-and-white tile floor with a chalk line around him.

“It’s good to see you, Audra, of course. I should’ve said I’m stunned to see you here in Royal, Texas.” He gestured toward the opposite side of the booth. “You look...amazing.” It was an egregious understatement. She was drop-dead gorgeous. “Join me?”

Audra’s sensual lips, shiny with lip gloss, quirked in a semi-frown as she studied him. Finally, she nodded and slid across from him in the booth.

“The new look—” she indicated his bald head, a look he’d transitioned to nearly three years ago “—I like it. It suits you.”

“Thanks.” He cleared his throat. “What did you order?”

“They make an incredible Cobb salad. It probably has as many calories as your burger and fries, but at least I feel like I’m making an effort.”

He’d always loved her refreshing honesty. Too bad he hadn’t afforded her the same. Their story still would’ve ended. But if he’d been honest with her then, at least he’d have no regrets where Audra was concerned.

“LA Fashion Week is just a few weeks away. I’d expect the great Audra Lee Covington to be in the design studio right now.”

Audra was a diamond heiress. She’d broken rank with her very traditional family and formed her own company that catered to a younger, trendier clientele. Her name got frequent mentions in fashion magazines when A-list actors, musicians and social influencers bragged that they were iced in Audra Lee Covington diamond earrings, necklaces, bracelets and tiaras.

“Royal isn’t my usual hangout. That’s for sure.” A deep smile lit Audra’s rich espresso-brown eyes, the same color as her shoulder-length hair. “I got an early start on the season this year. So when I received a lucrative request from a wealthy bride-to-be here in Royal, I couldn’t resist. I’m creating custom wedding jewelry for the couple and gifts for their bridal party. So I’m staying in town for a bit. Getting to know the area and the bride, who will be returning from New York tomorrow with her fiancé. I’d hardly expect to run into you here, either.” She clasped her hands on the table. “I hear Thr3d will be doing a runway show this year.”

“We are. My team is back in LA working tirelessly to prepare for it.”

She produced a gum-filled lollipop from her pocket, opened the wrapper and popped it in her mouth.

Was that a fucking tongue ring?

Darius was pretty sure his jaw hit the ground and another part of his body reached for the sky.

Good thing he’d returned to his seat.

Audra propped her elbows on the table and tilted her head as she studied him. “What brings you to Royal?”

“A business opportunity.” It wasn’t a lie. The opportunity to collaborate with Miranda had brought him to town.

She sucked on that damn lollipop, which had already stained her tongue red, and awaited further explanation.

“It’s too early to share details.” He picked up his burger. “But I’m hoping to create a clothing line for a major fitness brand.”

“Ah.” When she said it, he couldn’t help staring at her candy-red, pierced tongue. “Miranda Dupree. Scoring the clothing line for her Goddess brand would be a major coup.”

“How’d you—”

“It’s a small world, I guess.” She shrugged. “Miranda is my client’s ex-stepmother. My client is Sophie Blackwood. Do you know her?”

His half sister. Damn. It was a small world.

“Never met her.” He shrugged. “But I’ve heard the name.”

Less than an hour ago, in fact.

Audra’s mouth made a popping sound when she yanked the lollipop from between her lips. She stared at him, her brown eyes narrowed. Judging him. As if she didn’t believe him.

Darius bit a mouthful of the bacon cheeseburger.

He hadn’t seen Audra in five years. They weren’t together, and she had no right to know his personal business.

So why did he feel as guilty now for telling her a half-truth as he had when they were together?

Audra returned the sucker to her mouth and rose from the table. She didn’t believe him, but she obviously didn’t deem pursuing the truth worth her time.

Knowing she found him unworthy made his chest ache. Her wordless condemnation was exactly what he deserved.

“Looks like they’re done with my order.” Audra nodded toward where Amanda was packing a to-go bag. “Nice seeing you again, Darius. Good luck with Fashion Week.”

Darius groaned quietly as he swiped another French fry into his milkshake and took a bite.

Audra made a hasty escape, and he couldn’t blame her.

He was a liar. Apparently, it was hereditary.

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ABOUT REESE RYAN

Reese Ryan writes sexy, emotional romance with captivating family drama, surprising secrets, and a posse of complex, flawed characters.

A Midwesterner with deep Southern roots, Reese currently resides in semi-small-town North Carolina where she’s an avid reader, a music junkie, and a self-declared connoisseur of cheesy grits.

CONNECT WITH REESE RYAN

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