Evil Queen is an empowering collection about strong women overcoming all odds and growing into the best versions of their authentic selves.
Evil Queen is an empowering collection about strong women overcoming all odds and growing into the best versions of their authentic selves.
Evil Queen Anthology
(A Charity Anthology)
Publication Date: October 18, 2021
Genre/Tropes: Anthology Romance
Authors: Dee Lagasse, Victoria Ellis, Kat Savage, J.R. Rogue, Christina Hart, Kandi Steiner, Abbi Glines, Kelsie Rae, C.C. Monroe, Kat T. Masen, B.L. Olson, Stella Montgomery, K. Leigh, Jerilyn Saint Jane, Len Webster, C.L. Matthews, Amanda Cuff, Mignon Mykel, Nicole Banks, London Miller, Alexandria Bishop, Cynthia A. Rodriguez
In this new anthology, where you’d think darkness reigns supreme, but it’s more about women empowerment and how women find their own happy endings…or beginnings.
This anthology is jammed pack with short stories, prequels, and novellas. Here is a look at just a few I reviewed:
Len Webster’s Juniper;
Len is a fantastic writer of angsty love triangles. Juniper has been in love with her friend Benny forever, but Benny has recently fallen in love with Darsha. This new development hasn’t lessened Juniper’s feelings any, but tell that to her best friend. While Juniper has tried her best to shove those feelings in a box, it doesn’t help when she has to see him making kissy face with his girlfriend. While it’s been almost a year and Juniper knows she needs to move on it’s easier said than done. However, when she meets Brandt, he might be the answer to finally starting a new path. Could this be the beginning of Len’s famous triangle?? While she doesn’t mention this continuing in a bigger book, it does have all the lovely components of a Webster angsty novel, so I’m hopeful to see these characters again.
Kelsie Rae’s Samantha;
A second chance love story. This novella is sweet and steamy all rolled into one second chance romance. Phoenix and Sam were best friends until Phoenix moved away ten years ago, but neither ever forgot the other. When they were just six years old they made a pact to marry one another on their twenty-fifth birthdays. Phoenix is now a rock star and Samantha is just an ordinary girl living in LA, they shouldn’t have the opportunity to run into one another, much less think about a pact they made almost twenty years ago, but can birthday wishes come true? This particular story, or at least these characters do continue in Kelsie’s next book.
Check out this book full of empowering, strong women.
Synopsis:
EVERYONE DESERVES A HAPPY ENDING.
This empowering collection features novelettes about strong women overcoming all the odds to become the best, authentic version of themselves.
Contributing authors: Dee Lagasse, Victoria Ellis, Kat Savage, J.R. Rogue, Christina Hart, Kandi Steiner, Abbi Glines, Kelsie Rae, C.C. Monroe, Kat T. Masen, B.L. Olson, Stella Montgomery, K. Leigh, Jerilyn Saint Jane, Len Webster, C.L. Matthews, Amanda Cuff, Mignon Mykel, Nicole Banks, London Miller, Alexandria Bishop, Cynthia A. Rodriguez.
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Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward are excited to bring you the Cocky Hero Club: original works from various authors inspired by Keeland and Ward’s New York Times bestselling Cocky Bastard series.
Sexy. Demanding. Cocky.
All words I would use to describe Kingston Avery.
The owner of Avery Capital Holdings— and my new boss.
It was tempting enough working together everyday, but ignoring his wicked promises under his roof was impossible.
But the company had a zero fraternization policy, and things were already complicated enough.
I needed to focus on doing my job.
And avoid doing my boss.
Kingston wasn’t just another suit…
He was a cocky suit.
And when the suit came off,
He was a man who could steal my heart.
Gorgeous. Attentive. Compassionate.
I just hope it didn’t cost me my career.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52261193-cocky-suit
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CONNECT WITH HARLOW LAYNE: https://www.harlowlayne.com
Dirty Dealer by Kacey Shea
On paper I have it all. Wealth, security, and a collection of vehicles that spark envy, even amongst LA’s rich and famous. Money is all I ever wanted, but now that I have it in spades, I’m restless.
For the first time in my life, I want things cash can’t procure. I want a real relationship. Beauty and brains. A salacious little minx who isn’t afraid to call me out. My equal, in and out of the bedroom.
The problem is I have no clue where to find a woman like that.
Imagine my luck when I come upon a curvy, gorgeous maiden in distress, stranded on the side of I-10 like a mirage fashioned from my deepest desires. It’s fate. Kismet.
Only she isn’t impressed. Not by my money, my power, or my ability to make all her dreams come true. Hell, she won’t even accept my ride without an argument. But I’m not giving up. She doesn’t know who she’s dealing with, and I’m not afraid to play dirty.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52739167-dirty-dealer
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Cocky Protector by Kat Mizera
Life as a CIA operative might be exciting, but living under the radar gets lonely.
Meeting someone, much less having a relationship, is the most impossible mission of all.
There was someone… once. But she was looking for a white picket fence and I was headed for war.
Now, my years of service to my country are catching up with me and I’m ready for a change.
I just never expected that change to be Shannon, or that she would be in trouble.
The man in me can’t forget that damn kiss. The Marine in me is ready to protect her at all costs.
She might not want my help, but I’m not walking away this time.
Even if it won’t have the ending either of us were looking for…
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53898754-cocky-protector
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Hired Hottie by Kelsie Rae
Levi McCoy took me under his wing when we were kids. He was my protector. My best friend. My everything.
And I was his sidekick.
When he landed an internship at Montague Enterprises, I was thrilled. Hundreds of people had applied, and Levi and his roommate had made the cut. There was just one problem. Only one of them would be offered the permanent position.
That’s when things got messy.
The two bargained for the final job offer, using me as their pawn.
And I fell for it. The scheming. The stolen kisses. The late night texts. My heart was being torn in two, and neither one of them cared. I was nothing but a pretty face to one of them, and an easy target for the other.
All good things must come to an end, right? Except our ending was one I didn’t see coming. Hell, it should’ve never started in the first place.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52302692-hired-hottie
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CONNECT WITH KELSIE RAE: https://authorkelsierae.com
Cocky Notes by Leesa Bow
Who thought writing ‘LOSERS’ on a menu could lead to an affair of love notes?
It didn’t start out as love. How could it when I vowed never to fall in love…
Reef Burton, the sexy blue-eyed football player, and his mates are definitely not ‘Losers’ yet writing it on a menu gave me reason to smile. Only it didn’t make it to the trash.
He returns to the restaurant where I work wearing his killer smile. I wasn’t to know those squiggly lines and arrows meant something. An offensive play his football team learned at an earlier training session. Coming here discussing the team plays over coffee helps… so he says.
He’ll see what I wrote. Apart from it being awkward the next time I serve him he could also report me to my boss.
I can’t lose my job when in hindsight I need two to pay all the bills rolling in, and to care for my invalid father.
I’m thankful he kept it as our secret.
Until he left me a note.
Responding will only lead to more trouble.
So when Mr Blue Eyes-Blond Surfy-Hair gives me one of his spine tingling looks, how can I resist?
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52486129-cocky-notes
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CONNECT WITH LEESA BOW: https://www.leesabow.com
Scandalous Scotsman by MJ Fields
One trip down the stairs, caused by a lone Lego, while wrapped in a towel, spewing a plethora of profanities, and my cell phone went flying.
I landed on my ass, and then the ER.
Between those two occurrences was a FaceTime call, placed by a bouncing phone, to the number of a man I didn’t even truly look at, who had now seen more of my body than anyone had since my Tinder days, over a year ago.
Three declined calls later, I limped out the door to get myself to the ER before starting my hectic day.
The ER was packed, but when I saw Nurse Bridget, one of my students’ mothers, I pleaded my case, and she hurried me into an examination room.
An hour later, I left on crutches with a bruised ass, a fractured ankle, and an appointment to see an orthopedic surgeon at four p.m.
Arriving fifteen minutes late for that appointment, I heard the sexy yet very brash accent of a man who clearly had an obsession with punctuality and had, apparently, no bedside manner.
Dr. Ethan Stewart, tall, copper-haired, sinfully sexy … was a total ass.
After a tongue-lashing about how irresponsible I was to, first, leave the ER with such an injury, and second, be late, I put him in his place … or so I thought.
Turned off by his arrogant attitude, turned on by the roguish glint in his green eyes and the way he spoke, I left his office a hot … and wet mess.
Upon exiting, my phone rang again. It was the same number from before, and I couldn’t help answering to give the caller a piece of my mind.
Once in my car, I hung up, tossed my phone on the passenger seat, and then looked out the window to see him with his phone to his ear and a grin spread across his far too handsome face.
It couldn’t be …
Could it?
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51627090-scandalous-scotsman
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CONNECT WITH MJ FIELDS: https://mjfieldsbooks.com
Vengeful Bastard by Nicole Dykes
Sean is a normal guy. Has a great job as a photographer. Drives a new car, but not overly flashy. Has his small group of friends.
Yeah he’s just your run of the mill average Joe.
Except, is anyone really all that normal?
The secrets Sean harbors run deep. Stemmed from agony deep inside and a thirst for vengeance.
Melody is perceived as the beautiful spoiled princess that fell for a beautiful, confident stranger many years ago.
Two polar opposites. One night that changed everything without either of them knowing it.
Can love conquer all? With the help from a mysterious stranger, Adele. Who you may all know from a certain Cocky character’s life. Unlucky in love herself. Anything is possible.
***This book is in conjunction with the Cocky Hero Book Club with Adele and maybe some of your other favorite Cocky characters guiding these characters through their journey.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50215507-vengeful-bastard
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Jilted Jock by Rebecca Jenshak
He was someone who belonged on the cover of Sports Illustrated instead of in my small beach town.
A sexy, cocky Australian soccer star named Finn was the last person I expected to be living with for two weeks.
He showed up at my brother’s house on his wedding night, hot, drunk, and very much not married. Next thing I knew, we were roommates, spending nights watching TV and getting to know one another.
Those two weeks turned into more than either of us bargained for.
He was fresh off a broken heart and I had a boyfriend.
I wasn’t supposed to fall for the jilted jock, especially when I knew we’d be going our separate ways.
All good things must come to an end, right?
Except he’s not letting me go without a fight.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52128923-jilted-jock
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Smug Bastard by Stacey Marie Brown
It was my time, a cross country drive heading home for my brother’s wedding to figure out my life after college. Me, my dog named Goat, and the open road. That’s all I wanted.
He wasn’t supposed to be part of it. My older brother’s high school friend and my sister’s ex. The cocky boy my eleven-year-old-self hated.
The infamous Smith Blackburn.
AKA Smug Bastard.
The guy every girl wanted to be with and every guy wanted to be.
The day after graduation, he left town and disappeared, losing contact with my family. But nine years later, he resurfaces and becomes a thorn in my side once again.
After his motorcycle breaks down, my older siblings convince me to let him ride home with me. Kyle wants his old buddy at his wedding, and Kasey, still carrying a torch for him, wants nothing more than to see him again, convinced they are meant to be. It’s the last thing in the world I want, but I learned long ago going up against the powerhouse twins is futile.
After nine years, we’ve both grown up, but our mutual dislike lingers. Though I can’t deny he is the sexiest man I have ever seen in my life. His piercing blue eyes, gorgeous rugged face, and muscular, tall figure belong on magazine covers. But he’s still a smug bastard, and I’m still the annoying little “Baby K.”
Spending every minute together in a tiny camper van starts to twist the lines of hate, igniting feelings and passions I’ve never felt before, shoving me out of my safety bubble. Tension grows, and nights are filled with strain and forbidden desire.
But I can feel him holding back. Cagey and cryptic, Smith’s dark past hints at the surface.
When it finds us, nothing could have prepared me for the truth—the secrets that flip everything upside down.
I wasn’t supposed to fall for him.
He was never meant to be mine.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53196217-smug-bastard
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Bloodthirsty Bastard by T.L. Christianson
All I wanted was to escape the scandal.
The job offer in California was the perfect opportunity to pack up and head West.
A dark, sexy, and mysterious new boss wasn’t in the plan.
And his secrets run deeper than just his business dealings.
When Ethan reveals who and what he truly is, it throws everything I ever thought I knew about the world out the window.
Vampire.
The word alone brings up visions of blood-sucking monsters.
Yet, Ethan is anything but.
Falling for him, with his dashing good looks and honed charm, was almost inevitable.
But we’re from two very different worlds, and the danger in his might just bring an end neither of us saw coming.
Bloodthirsty Bastard – a paranormal story from the Cocky Bastard world you know and love
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52848976-bloodthirsty-bastard
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CONNECT WITH T.L. CHRISTIANSON: https://www.tlchristianson.com
COCKY HERO CLUB
Website: http://www.cockyheroclub.com
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RELEASE BLITZ
Title: Dawn to Dark Anthology
Publisher: Vixen Publishing
Genre: Fairytale Retellings
Release Date: March 30, 2019
Vixen Publishing Presents: “Dawn to Dark.”
I’m sure you’ve heard the tales, we all have, but you’ve never heard them quite like this…
Seven authors bring your seven nail-biting stories. From a dark and twisted Rapunzel to a modern retelling of Cinderella, these authors will have you enthralled and howling for more.
Halston James retells Beauty and the Beast with a twist. “Out of the Woods” has a touch of urban fantasy and a healthy dose of paranormal romance that’ll have you turning the pages, ravenous for more.
Sonya Jesus will capture you with her dark contemporary retelling of the Little Mermaid in “Part of His World.” Follow Ari as she defies her father’s strict rules to be part of Derrick’s life.
Suzan Lee has re-written a Grimm brothers classic, Snow White and Rose Red in her young adult, contemporary “Witching Woods.” With magic and malevolence strolling hand in hand, you’ll be left guessing right until the end.
Kelsie Rae is best known for her sweet contemporary romances, and her version of Aladdin is no different. “The Hack”is a modern twist on a Disney favorite. One girl who prays for freedom. One man who craves a different life. One hacker with the power to change their stars. Three wishes. No turning back.
Take a step on the seductive side with Angharad Thompson Ree’s gothic horror retelling of Little Red Riding Hood. A paranormal romance meets psychological thriller, “Moon Bitten” is a story that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
K.Z. Riley has written “Arabella”, a beautiful young adult love story where you’re more likely to find soccer boots than glass slippers. Follow Arabella on her journey of finding herself, discovering love and overcoming fear.
If you think you know the story of Rapunzel, think again. Courtney Shockey’s twisted tale is about a queen who looks far more innocent than she actually is. Bring her silk or priceless gifts, and she’ll seal your fate with a sweet, gentle kiss.
GOODREADS LINK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43605543-dawn-to-dark
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EXCERPT
“Moon Bitten” by Angharad Thompson Rees
I pull the hood of my red cape over my head, concealing myself against the gust of frigid winds biting with ice and spite. The skies hold the promise of more snow to come. He does not let go of my hand. And it’s not the snow concerning him.
“Blaxton,” I say—his name as sweet as honey on my recently-kissed lips. “Do not concern yourself. It is but a short walk through the woods, and yes, I promise to stay on the tracks.”
I raise an eyebrow, threatening him to contradict me. But he should know my penchant for wandering and losing myself. That’s how we met—deep within the woods in the first days of spring, when frost thawed atop the lake and his green eyes melted ice from my nervous heart.
He pulls me into his chest, his body warm against my own, tempting me to stay. Tempting me to never leave. I melt into him, lips hot as the first flakes of snow dance from the sky.
“Blaxton, no,” I say, pulling myself away with reluctance. The space between his heart and mine gapes as if the very universe could fill the hole. “I have to get back to Grandma, you know I do.”
His face drops at her mention. Grandma despises him despite his soft features, warm honey eyes and sweet, crooked smile. Though I suspect her hatred is aimed more at the threat he will steal me from her. Just as her daughter, my mother, was stolen so many years ago I can no longer picture her face. But that was different. Mother did not fall in love as I have. She was taken…
By wolves.
A perfectly timed howl echoes across the valley, carried along the land muted by snow. Blaxton raises his own eyebrow at the beast’s call and I laugh. An empty tin-like sound of hollow mirth and creeping fear.
“I’ll be fine. Tomorrow,” I say, allowing a smile to creep across my frost-numb face. “Let’s meet tomorrow, same time and place.”
Blaxton captures loose strands of my red hair in his pale fingers. The contrast startling like blood on snow. Tucking the strands behind my left ear, his fingers trail my cheek as he kisses my forehead. “Tomorrow,” he promises.
CONTRIBUTING AUTHORS
Halston James
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/halstonjames
Instagram: https://www.instagram/authorhalstonjames
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Halston-James/e/B07D5XHBY3
Sonya Jesus
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSonyaJesus
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorsonyajesus
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/default/e/B077J428BV
Suzan Lee
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorsuzanlee
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suzanleemcmiles
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B078JCJPBD
Kelsie Rae
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kraeauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkelsierae
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Kelsie-Rae/e/B07C86P9QG
Angharad Thompson Rees
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/angharadthompsonrees
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angharadthompsonrees
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Angharad-Thompson-Rees/e/B01MZ3QYDW
K.Z. Riley
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kz.riley89
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/KZ-Riley/e/B07DP3R2PH
Courtney Shockey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Courtneytheauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneytheauthor
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Courtney-Shockey/e/B01787J91I