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Little Fox Cottage (A Pajaro Bay Novel)

FREE

Author: Barbara Cool Lee

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romance / Small Town Romance

She came to say goodbye. She stayed to find home. 🏡💕

Aspiring chef Bree Taylor thought she’d found her place in the world—in the kitchen of Lassiter’s restaurant, learning from her mentor and dear friend, Chef Henry Lassiter. He’d filled her head with stories of his childhood home in Pajaro Bay, painting pictures of a charming seaside village where dreams came true and hearts found healing.

Then Henry died suddenly, shattering Bree’s world and leaving her as lost and grieving as his beloved old dog, Maisy. Now Bree has one final task: deliver Maisy to Henry’s twin sister in Pajaro Bay. Then she can move on, as alone and adrift as ever. 😢

But what she finds when she arrives is not the happy, cozy village Henry described. Instead, she discovers a town full of mysteries she can’t understand—from his sister’s odd behavior to the handsome doctor with eyes as rich as bittersweet chocolate who can’t seem to decide if he’s attracted to her or just wants her to leave him alone. 🍫

As Bree unravels the secrets Henry left behind, she’ll have to use everything he taught her about faith, trust, and believing in herself to find a new path. Maybe, just maybe, she’ll discover that the home she’s been searching for has been waiting for her all along—complete with new friends, a new community, and the happily ever after Henry always promised was possible. 🌊

What makes this special: Barbara Cool Lee writes heartwarming clean romance with characters who feel like friends and settings you’ll want to visit. The Pajaro Bay series is beloved by readers who crave cozy small-town stories where the cottages are cute, the neighbors are nosy, and everyone gets their happy ending. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber, Susan Mallery, and RaeAnne Thayne—anyone who loves sweet romance without steam, community-focused stories, and that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from a perfectly satisfying small-town tale. These are comfort reads at their finest, featuring grief and healing handled with sensitivity, found family, adorable dogs, and kitchens filled with delicious food. If you’re looking for romance that restores your faith in people and leaves you smiling, welcome to Pajaro Bay! ☕✨

Betting On Him (A Wilde Love Novel Book 1)

FREE

Author: Kelly Collins

Genre: Contemporary Romance

He inherited a mob empire. She inherited debt. Together, they’re betting everything on love. 🎰💕

When Las Vegas’ most notorious mobster is gunned down in front of Old Money Casino, Alex Wilde is forced to take over his father’s “family business.” His first task? Find a wife before the funeral and avoid the strategic mobster marriage that threatens to lock him into organized crime forever. Alex desperately wants to break free from his father’s dark legacy and go completely legit—but the Russian mob has other plans, and they involve a mob princess he has no intention of marrying. 💍

Just when he’s sure he’s out of options, Alex meets a feisty cocktail waitress who offers him more than the convenience of a temporary wife. But when his heart gets involved, going all in with her could be the riskiest bet of his life. ❤️

Trouble follows Faye Tandy like a shadow. Deep in debt after being swindled by her ex, she’s desperate to find a way out. She’s barely scraping by while trying to finish college, working tables at the Wilde family casino, when Mr. Tall, Dark and Delicious makes her an offer she can’t refuse: a fake marriage with a 100% failure rate in exchange for more cash than she’s ever imagined. Faye lays it all on the line, ready to play along with this ridiculous scheme and walk away with enough money to finally get her life back on track. 💰

But Alex Wilde turns out to be more than a safe bet—and while his enemies threaten to take her life, Alex vows to steal her heart. With dark limousines, 24/7 bodyguards, dangerous Russian gangsters circling, and a wedding that’s supposed to be temporary turning into something terrifyingly real, the cards are stacked against them. Can they double down on love, or will the Mob call their bluff? 🃏🔥

What makes this special: International bestselling author Kelly Collins delivers a refreshing twist on mafia romance with an old-world Godfather vibe—think speakeasies, Chicago gangster aesthetic, and 1920s flapper themes set against the glittering backdrop of modern Las Vegas. This is “feel-good mafia romance” (yes, that’s a thing!) featuring emotionally mature adults, sassy banter, mild steaminess, and characters you’ll actually root for. Collins is known for creating “cinnamon roll heroes” who are tough on the outside but gooey in the middle, paired with heroines who don’t take any bull. Perfect for readers who love marriage of convenience stories, fake relationship tropes, and contemporary romance with just enough danger to keep things exciting—but not so dark you need a shower afterward. If you enjoy Susan Mallery, Debbie Macomber, or Nora Roberts’ lighter romantic suspense, you’ll devour this series starter. The Wilde Love trilogy follows three brothers trying to escape their father’s legacy, and this first installment sets up a world you’ll want to return to. Buckle up for the ride! 🎲✨

This Moment (Moose Village Series Book 1)

FREE

Author: Kelly Elliott

Genre: Friends-to-Lovers Romantic Suspense

She’s running from danger. He’s escaping corporate greed. In the foothills of the Adirondacks, they’ll find each other—and maybe lose their hearts. 🏔️💕

Kian Carter is stuck in a rut. As a successful lawyer in his parents’ New York City office, he’s sick and tired of their greed and lifelong insistence on putting their powerhouse practice above all else—including him and his siblings. He should have done what his brother and sister did…turn his back on law. It’s time to quit the firm and return to the only home he’s ever known, the quiet town of Moose Village in Upstate New York. Time to finally pursue his dream of becoming a mystery writer and start living life instead of just watching it speed by. ✍️

Not much has changed in the tiny town in the foothills of the Adirondacks. Or so he thought. But this time there’s one big difference: Moose Village is playing host to a mystery woman. And she happens to be working at his aunt’s bakery. The lovely Cadie Waterford is the talk of the town gossip, as much for her luscious banana bread as her unwillingness to talk about her past. 🥖

Kian’s not normally one to engage in gossip…but the more time he spends with Cadie, the more intrigued he becomes. There’s an instant attraction between them that’s impossible to ignore, and as their friendship deepens into something more, Cadie begins to trust him with pieces of her story. Whatever her secrets may be, he’s sure he can handle them—but when words like FBI, CIA, and even murder come into play, does Cadie need more protection than he thought? Or does Moose Village need protection from Cadie? 🔍

What pulled me in: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kelly Elliott—dubbed “The Queen of Small Town” by her devoted readers—launches a captivating new series that blends heartwarming small-town romance with genuine suspense. Elliott is a master at creating tight-knit communities filled with quirky, lovable characters and settings that feel like home, and Moose Village is her latest gem. This story features all her signature elements: a swoon-worthy slowburn friends-to-lovers romance, found family, a girl-on-the-run/hidden identity trope, and just enough danger to keep pages turning late into the night. Perfect for fans of Susan Mallery, Debbie Macomber, and RaeAnne Thayne who want their small-town romance with a side of mystery. If you love stories where burnt-out professionals rediscover themselves, protective heroes who respect boundaries, heroines with complicated pasts, and communities that rally around their own, welcome to Moose Village. Each book can be read as a standalone, but you’ll want to devour the whole series! 📚✨

The Mystery of the Blue Train

FREE

Author: Kelly Elliott

Genre: Friends-to-Lovers Romantic Suspense

She’s running from danger. He’s escaping corporate greed. In the foothills of the Adirondacks, they’ll find each other—and maybe lose their hearts. 🏔️💕

Kian Carter is stuck in a rut. As a successful lawyer in his parents’ New York City office, he’s sick and tired of their greed and lifelong insistence on putting their powerhouse practice above all else—including him and his siblings. He should have done what his brother and sister did…turn his back on law. It’s time to quit the firm and return to the only home he’s ever known, the quiet town of Moose Village in Upstate New York. Time to finally pursue his dream of becoming a mystery writer and start living life instead of just watching it speed by. ✍️

Not much has changed in the tiny town in the foothills of the Adirondacks. Or so he thought. But this time there’s one big difference: Moose Village is playing host to a mystery woman. And she happens to be working at his aunt’s bakery. The lovely Cadie Waterford is the talk of the town gossip, as much for her luscious banana bread as her unwillingness to talk about her past. 🥖

Kian’s not normally one to engage in gossip…but the more time he spends with Cadie, the more intrigued he becomes. There’s an instant attraction between them that’s impossible to ignore, and as their friendship deepens into something more, Cadie begins to trust him with pieces of her story. Whatever her secrets may be, he’s sure he can handle them—but when words like FBI, CIA, and even murder come into play, does Cadie need more protection than he thought? Or does Moose Village need protection from Cadie? 🔍

What pulled me in: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kelly Elliott—dubbed “The Queen of Small Town” by her devoted readers—launches a captivating new series that blends heartwarming small-town romance with genuine suspense. Elliott is a master at creating tight-knit communities filled with quirky, lovable characters and settings that feel like home, and Moose Village is her latest gem. This story features all her signature elements: a swoon-worthy slowburn friends-to-lovers romance, found family, a girl-on-the-run/hidden identity trope, and just enough danger to keep pages turning late into the night. Perfect for fans of Susan Mallery, Debbie Macomber, and RaeAnne Thayne who want their small-town romance with a side of mystery. If you love stories where burnt-out professionals rediscover themselves, protective heroes who respect boundaries, heroines with complicated pasts, and communities that rally around their own, welcome to Moose Village. Each book can be read as a standalone, but you’ll want to devour the whole series! 📚✨

The Wishing Well (A Holly Well Springs Novel Book 1)

FREE

Author: Vivian Porter

Genre: Contemporary Romance

She hates Christmas. He celebrates it year-round. Can a magical Montana town teach her heart to believe again? 🎄💚

After losing her parents around Christmas, Hannah rejects the holiday fully. She turns her focus from joy and celebration to her future as a writer for a national foodie magazine. Outside of that, her only hobby is her plants—the only things she can nurture without getting hurt. 🌿

When her boss sends her on assignment to Holly Well Springs, a small town in Montana where the people celebrate Christmas all year long, she’s not at all excited. In fact, she’s horrified. The assignment sounds like her personal nightmare wrapped up with a bow. Suddenly forced to face Christmas everywhere she turns—tinsel in July, carols in January, the whole festive nightmare—Hannah comes up with a plan. She’ll just keep to herself and finish up the assignment as quickly as possible. Get in, get out, get back to Chicago where it’s safe and Christmas-free. ❄️

Unfortunately, that’s not how fate works.

The moment she lays eyes on Brodie, a Greek god cowboy who also loves plants more than she does (is that even possible?!), Hannah finds herself questioning everything she believed about her past. He runs a tree farm and greenhouses, and their shared passion for all things botanical creates an instant connection she didn’t see coming. While she’s busy trying to stay emotionally distant, the magic of love starts to unravel her wounded heart—and that magic isn’t just metaphorical. 🌲💫

And at the center of the miracle? A Wishing Well that opens her eyes to what’s really available to her. True love. The kind that heals old wounds and makes Christmas feel like coming home.

Why I’m including this: This is pure escapist Christmas magic—the literary equivalent of wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket with hot cocoa while snow falls outside. Porter crafts a whimsical, Hallmark-movie-style romance that’s clean, sweet, and utterly charming, perfect for readers who want to believe in the transformative power of love and holiday spirit without any cynicism getting in the way. Yes, the whole town loves Christmas every single day (which sounds cult-like until you realize you’d happily join). Yes, there’s actual magical realism with the wishing well and possibly some light mind-reading from Santa-adjacent figures. But if you’re willing to suspend disbelief and dive into a world where everyone is genuinely nice, true love exists, and there really is magic in the holidays, this book will make your heart glow. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber, Susan Mallery’s sweeter romances, and anyone who unironically loves those feel-good holiday movies. Fair warning: this isn’t gritty or realistic—it’s optimistic and fantastical in the best possible way. 🎁✨

Sweet Mercy (Empire Nightclub Book 1)

FREE

Author: K.A. Tucker

Genre: Alpha Male Romance

One prison visit. One powerful enemy. One ruthless bargain that will change everything. 💎🔥

From internationally bestselling author K.A. Tucker comes the dark and steamy Empire Nightclub series.

One visit to my father in prison—convicted for a murder he didn’t commit—and I’ve attracted the attention of the last man I’d ever want knowing that I exist.

Gabriel Easton.

Son of an infamous crime boss. Deplorable womanizer. Scoundrel to the core.

Worse, he has figured out how desperate I am to protect my father from brutality behind bars. He has the power to grant that protection, and he has offered it … for a price. Me. I am to become a “guest” in his mansion, to live with him until he tires of having me around, to share his bedroom at night while he dangles my father’s safety in front of me like a carrot I can never quite reach. 😤

I’ll do anything for my father, including agree to Gabriel’s cruel game. But I won’t comply with his every whim and wish. Not when he taunts me with that ruthless spark in his cold blue eyes. Not when every moment in his presence feels like playing with fire.

Unfortunately for me, I think my loathing for him is what he’s enjoying most.

That’s fine. By the time I’m through with him, he’ll be crying my name.

Mercy. 🔥

Please note: This series is intended for mature audiences

What makes this special: USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author K.A. Tucker—known for beloved contemporary romances like The Simple Wild and Ten Tiny Breaths—goes deliciously dark with this TikTok-famous series that originally released under the pen name Nina West. This is Tucker writing with her gloves off: morally gray anti-heroes, forced proximity that crackles with tension, and enemies-to-lovers banter that cuts like a knife. Gabriel Easton isn’t your typical romance hero—he’s ruthless, manipulative, and utterly captivating. Mercy Wheeler is his perfect match: smart, sassy, and strong enough to give as good as she gets in their battle of wills. While the setup sounds like a hostage situation, this is an entertaining cat-and-mouse game between two people who are both more complex than they first appear. Perfect for readers who loved Penelope Douglas’s Corrupt series, Danielle Lori’s Made series, or Sara Cate’s darker romances. This is Book 1 in a four-book series (Sweet Mercy, Gabriel Fallen, Dirty Empire, Fallen Empire), and it absolutely ends on a cliffhanger, so clear your schedule. The steam level is high, the moral compass is questionable, and you’ll be hooked from page one. Fair warning: this isn’t the sweet K.A. Tucker of her mainstream romances—this is the version that wants to make you sweat. 😈🖤

Her Christmas Rescue (Christmas Wishes Book 1)

FREE

Author: Grace J. Croy

Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance

He’s a struggling single father. She doesn’t want to spend Christmas alone. Trapped together for the holidays may give them what they both need: somewhere to belong. 🎄❤️

When Livy Brown makes an impulsive decision to visit her sister for Christmas, she can’t predict her car will end up half-submerged in a river in the middle of a blizzard. Also impossible to predict is what happens next: she’s rescued by a bearded knight in shining armor driving a white Ford Ranger. 🚙

Too bad his grumpy personality doesn’t match his heroic deed. Oh well, his lack of Christmas spirit is not her problem. As soon as he drops her off at a hotel, she’ll never see him again. Easy. Simple. Goodbye, grumpy rescuer! 👋

Jay Yates is in desperate need of a peaceful Christmas with his parents and daughter. Finding Livy by the side of the road freezing is not part of his plan. Neither is the attraction he feels toward her—this clumsy, sweet, relentlessly optimistic woman who somehow manages to find herself in one hysterical situation after another. The last thing he wants is a relationship, and he’ll do what he has to in order to keep his distance. He’s still healing from losing his wife, his sullen pre-teen daughter needs him, and he doesn’t have room in his life for complications. 💔

When the hotels in Casper, Wyoming are full-up with all the other stranded travelers, there’s only one thing to do: take her home for the holidays. What could possibly go wrong?

What pulled me in: This is a librarian-turned-author writing the kind of clean, wholesome Christmas romance that feels like coming home. Grace J. Croy crafts a perfect grumpy/sunshine romance with characters that feel refreshingly real—Livy is genuinely kind and caring without being a doormat, Jay is grieving and guarded without being cruel, and his daughter’s struggles feel authentic rather than contrived. Readers consistently compare this to Hallmark movies (high praise in the clean romance world!), noting the strong character development across all the supporting cast, including Jay’s welcoming family at their B&B. It’s sweet without being saccharine, emotional without being manipulative, and full of those small, tender moments that make you believe in second chances. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber, Jenny Colgan, and anyone who loves forced proximity, snowed-in romances, single-parent stories, and that warm fuzzy feeling when everything comes together just right. Bonus points: Livy is a middle-school teacher, which helps her connect with Jay’s daughter in ways that feel earned and genuine. If you want a Christmas story that will leave you happy, satisfied, and believing in the magic of the season, grab this one! ☕✨

One Night, Two Holidays: A Christmas and Hanukkah Novella

FREE

Author: Ali Brady

Genre: Holiday Romance

A romantic and heartwarming holiday novella from USA Today Bestselling author Ali Brady. 🕎🎄

This year, Christmas and Hanukkah come together–and for two neighbors stranded in a snowstorm, one magical night could change everything.

Jack had big plans for Christmas: fly home to see the family he misses like crazy, eat his weight in holiday cookies and enjoy plenty of forced-family fun in matching pajamas. You know, the usual wholesome chaos. Instead, a record-breaking snowstorm leaves him stranded alone in Chicago. ❄️

Meanwhile, Nessa’s Hanukkah plans were…nonexistent. With her roommates off on their own adventures and her family busy elsewhere, she was ready to spend the holiday binge-watching TV alone. Not ideal, but at least there wouldn’t be any pressure to pretend everything’s fine when it’s not. 📺

When a power outage takes things from bad to worse, the two neighbors join forces to help each other find the holiday cheer they’ve both lost. As they attempt to make latkes out of whatever ingredients they can scrounge up, and stuff each other’s stockings with improvised gifts (truly one of the most adorable scenes ever), the two stumble upon the unexpected joy of blending their own holiday traditions into something entirely new. 🥔🎁

While the storm rages outside, sparks begin to fly between Jack and Nessa. But will the magic they found last beyond this one special night?

What makes this special: USA Today bestselling author Ali Brady (the writing duo of Alison Hammer and Bradeigh Godfrey) delivers a timely, inclusive holiday romance that celebrates interfaith relationships and the beauty of sharing traditions. This novella is sweet, steamy, and surprisingly emotional for its length—there’s genuine depth here despite the cozy, low-stakes setup. Perfect for this moment when Christmas and Hanukkah actually do coincide, making it feel especially relevant. The forced proximity is charming rather than contrived, and watching these two strangers open up to each other while creating new hybrid traditions together is absolutely heartwarming. Great for fans of Christina Lauren’s holiday novellas, Jasmine Guillory, and anyone looking for representation of Jewish characters in romance. The story works beautifully as a standalone and delivers exactly what you want from a holiday romance: hope, connection, and the reminder that sometimes the best celebrations are the ones we never planned. Available through Substack, Kindle Unlimited, and various audiobook platforms. Quick, cozy, and guaranteed to warm your heart! 💕✨

Priest: A Love Story

FREE

Author: Sierra Simone

Genre: Romantic Erotica

There are many rules a priest can’t break. A priest cannot marry. A priest cannot abandon his flock. A priest cannot forsake his God.

I’ve always been good at following rules.

Until she came. Then I learned new rules. ⛪🔥

My name is Tyler Anselm Bell. I’m twenty-nine years old. Six months ago, I broke my vow of celibacy on the altar of my own church, and God help me, I would do it again.

I am a priest and this is my confession.

He vowed to serve God. But the moment she spoke, he wanted to worship her instead.

From USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Sierra Simone comes a darkly poetic, emotionally charged taboo romance where every choice is a sin, and every touch feels like salvation. When Father Tyler Bell hears Poppy Danforth’s voice in his confessional, everything he believes begins to fracture. His vows. His purpose. His faith. What begins as a spiritual struggle becomes a sensual awakening that threatens to consume them both. 🙏💔

Torn between salvation and desire, Tyler must choose which altar to kneel before: the church…or her.

Please note: This series is intended for mature audiences

What pulled me in: Sierra Simone doesn’t just write erotica—she writes literary erotica with achingly beautiful prose that explores the intersections of faith, duty, sex, and love. Priest has become TikTok-famous for good reason: it’s a boundary-pushing, taboo romance that treats its subject matter with unexpected depth and emotional nuance. Simone (a former librarian who clearly wasn’t afraid to read the spicy stuff at the information desk!) crafts Tyler Bell as a complex, conflicted hero torn between two callings, and Poppy as more than just a temptress—she’s a fully realized character with her own spiritual journey. The book has been featured in Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan, Entertainment Weekly, and Buzzfeed, and reviewers consistently praise its combination of explosive heat and genuine emotional stakes. This is Book 1 in a series that continues with Midnight Mass (a novella sequel) and standalone companion books Sinner and Saint about Tyler’s brothers—all can be read independently, though starting with Priest is recommended. Perfect for readers who loved Penelope Douglas, Natasha Knight, or K. Webster and want their steam with substance. Fair warning: this isn’t metaphorical—there are explicit scenes in the church, and the book absolutely earns its mature audience warning. But for readers ready to explore forbidden love with lyrical prose and genuine character depth, this is unforgettable. As one reviewer put it: “Theology meets kinkery.” 🖤🔥

The Mysterious Affair at Styles

FREE

Author: Agatha Christie

Genre: Traditional Detective Mysteries

🕵️ It began with a locked room, a deadly poison… and the detective who would make history.

In The Mysterious Affair at Styles, Agatha Christie introduces the world to Hercule Poirot, the brilliant Belgian sleuth whose “little grey cells” would forever redefine detective fiction.

When wealthy Emily Inglethorp is found dead in her country estate, the tranquil halls of Styles Court erupt with suspicion. Every guest harbors a secret — and every clue deepens the mystery.

Summoned to investigate, Poirot must untangle a web of jealousy, deception, and inheritance, proving that logic and order can expose even the most cunning of murderers.

With sharp wit, meticulous plotting, and a puzzle that keeps readers guessing until the final page, The Mysterious Affair at Styles stands as the birth of the modern detective novel — and the unforgettable beginning of Agatha Christie’s legendary career. 📚🔎

What makes this special: This is where it all began. Published in 1920, The Mysterious Affair at Styles introduced the world to Hercule Poirot—the fastidious Belgian detective with his magnificent mustaches, his reliance on psychology over physical evidence, and his famous “little grey cells.” This debut novel established the template that Christie would perfect over decades: the country house mystery, the assembled suspects, the impossible crime, and the brilliant detective who sees what others miss. The poisoning at Styles Court is Christie at her puzzle-making finest—fair play clues, genuine surprise, and a solution that feels both shocking and inevitable. Captain Hastings narrates (think Watson to Poirot’s Holmes), providing the perfect lens for readers to follow along and try to solve the case themselves. What’s remarkable is how assured Christie’s writing already was in this first novel—the characterization is sharp, the red herrings effective, and the denouement satisfying. Perfect for classic mystery fans, anyone interested in literary history, readers who love Dorothy L. Sayers or Margery Allingham, and those who want to experience the birth of one of fiction’s greatest detectives. This is Golden Age detective fiction in its purest form: elegant, clever, and endlessly entertaining. Start here and watch a legend begin! 🎩✨

The Link (The James Brickman Series Book 1)

FREE

Author: Dennis Shock

Genre: Crime Action Fiction

I am forever shocked by the actions of the demented lunatics of this world… 🔍

James Brickman is an investigator for the Kitsap County Sheriff’s Department. When his personal life collides with his work life he finds himself racing to save a young girl held captive by human traffickers. With the cooperation of several law enforcement teams and a little help from his new romantic interest, James embarks on a journey to bring justice to the sinister deviants behind the criminal network. Traversing a peninsula in the Pacific Northwest, this unyielding ex-detective puts his life on the line in the name of righteousness. ⚖️

Why I’m including this: Dennis Shock writes fast-paced crime thrillers with heart, perfect for readers who want page-turning action without gratuitous violence. Set in the Pacific Northwest (specifically Washington’s Kitsap Peninsula), The Link tackles the disturbing reality of human trafficking with enough realism to feel urgent but enough restraint to avoid being exploitative. James “Brick” Brickman is a compelling protagonist—a detective with strong morals and the kind of determination that makes you root for him from page one. What makes this series stand out is Shock’s attention to character development: readers consistently mention feeling like they’re “actually there” witnessing events unfold, and the supporting cast is as well-developed as the leads. The budding romance adds depth without overtaking the thriller plot, and the cooperation between multiple law enforcement agencies feels authentic (Shock clearly did his homework). Perfect for fans of Michael Connelly, John Sandford, or Robert B. Parker—readers looking for good guys fighting bad guys with compelling plots, unexpected twists, and heroes who genuinely care about justice. This is Book 1 in a trilogy that continues with Justice for the Guilty and Blackout Murder, plus there’s a prequel novelette called First Murder. For readers who enjoy crime fiction set in the Pacific Northwest, Shock also writes the Pacific Northwest Cozy Culinary Mystery series. If you’re looking for a thriller that’s gripping without being graphic, with protagonists worth cheering for, this is your series! 📚

That’s all of today’s freebies. Below are today’s discounted and new-release books:

The Birds: and Other Stories

Regularly $6.99, Today $1.99

Author: Daphne du Maurier

Genre: Psychological Thrillers

Including the brilliantly frightening short story that inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece, this collection from the author of Rebecca is a classic work of alienation and horror. 🦅

The chilling stories in this collection echo a sense of dislocation and mock man’s dominance over the natural world. A mountain paradise promises immortality, but at a terrible price; a neglected wife haunts her husband in the form of an apple tree; a professional photographer steps out from behind the camera and into his subject’s life; a date with a cinema usherette leads to a walk in the cemetery; and a jealous father finds a remedy when three’s a crowd ...

“Continually provokes both pity and terror ... Anyone starting this book under the impression that he may sleepily relax is in for a shock.” —The Observer (UK)

What pulled me in: Daphne du Maurier—the Gothic mistress who gave us Rebecca—proves she’s equally masterful in short form with this unsettling collection that explores the dark undercurrents of everyday life. The title story is justifiably famous: Hitchcock adapted it into his terrifying 1963 film, but du Maurier’s original vision is even more disturbing, less explained, more primal. These stories share a common thread of nature turning against humanity, relationships curdling into something sinister, and the ordinary becoming extraordinary in the most frightening ways. Du Maurier’s prose is elegant and understated, which makes the horror all the more effective—she doesn’t need gore or jump scares when psychological dread does the work. The stories range from supernatural (the haunting apple tree) to surreal (that cemetery date) to apocalyptic (the birds themselves), but all share her gift for atmosphere and her keen understanding of human fear. Perfect for fans of Shirley Jackson, Edgar Allan Poe’s short fiction, and readers who appreciate literary horror that lingers long after you’ve finished. These aren’t just scary stories—they’re meditations on isolation, jealousy, and the fragility of civilization. Essential reading for anyone interested in Gothic literature or the craft of the short story! 📖🖤

The Empirium Trilogy Ebook Bundle

Regularly $3.99, Today $3.03

Author: Claire Legrand

Genre: Dark Fantasy

All three books in the New York Times bestselling dark fantasy series, the Empirium Trilogy, included in one bundle!

Furyborn: In this thrilling new high-fantasy trilogy, a magic-wielding queen and a ruthless bounty hunter are separated by centuries but connected by a prophecy.

Kingsbane: The second book in the epic Empirium Trilogy that follows two young women as they fight to either save their world or doom it.

Lightbringer: The epic, final installment in the bestselling series follows Rielle and Eliana as they struggle against a mysterious force that may change the course of history forever.

Perfect for those looking for:Epic fantasy with stunning and elaborate world buildingTeen fantasy books for girlsStrong complex female charactersAn immersive series with an intricate magic systemFriendship and teen romance booksLGBTQ content

Why I’m including this: Claire Legrand’s Empirium Trilogy is a sweeping, ambitious dark fantasy that delivers everything epic fantasy fans crave: dual timelines, complex magic systems, morally gray characters, and stakes that couldn’t be higher. This bundle gives you all three books (Furyborn, Kingsbane, Lightbringer) for an incredible price—over 1,500 pages of immersive storytelling. Legrand writes powerful female protagonists who make difficult choices, and the series doesn’t shy away from darkness, violence, or the corrupting nature of power. Perfect for fans of Sarah J. Maas, Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse, or Sabaa Tahir’s An Ember in the Ashes series. The world-building is intricate, the romance is swoony, the action is intense, and the LGBTQ representation is woven naturally into the narrative. Fair warning: this is YA that skews older, with mature themes and genuine darkness. If you want a fantasy series that will consume your reading life for weeks and leave you emotionally destroyed (in the best way), grab this bundle! 🗡️✨

Detective Maddie Ives Mysteries

Regularly $4.99, Today $2.49

Author: Charlie Gallagher

Genre: British Crime Thrillers

Six bestselling crime thrillers written by a former police officer, in one single boxset. Over 20,000 five star reviews.

Perfect for fans of Kimberley Chambers, Angela Marsons, Rachel Abbott, Patricia Gibney or Mark Billingham.

MEET DETECTIVE SERGEANT MADDIE IVESShe was marked for greatness. Fast-tracked from police college straight into the high-stakes world of undercover work, Maddie Ives learned to survive on instinct and intelligence alone. But just as she began to thrive, one wrong move during a high-risk undercover operation blew her cover, shattering her career trajectory — and her personal life.

Now, with a fractured family and trust issues that run deep, to protect her life, Maddie has been forced to transfer from Manchester to a murder squad in Kent, surrounded by colleagues she doesn’t know and isn’t sure she can trust. She’s tough, guarded and carries the scars of a job that’s taken more than it’s given.

But what hasn’t changed is her relentless drive for justice — and her refusal to walk away from the people who need her most.

THE AUTHORCharlie Gallagher was a serving UK police officer for more than ten years, starting as a front-line response officer, then as a member of a specialist tactical team and as a detective investigating serious offences.

What makes this special: Charlie Gallagher writes police procedurals with the authenticity that only comes from firsthand experience. This boxset gives you six full-length novels featuring DS Maddie Ives—a flawed, fascinating protagonist with a complicated past and trust issues that add genuine tension to every investigation. Gallagher’s background as a UK police officer shines through in the realistic procedures, the internal politics of law enforcement, and the toll the job takes on officers’ personal lives. With over 20,000 five-star reviews, this series has clearly struck a chord with British crime fiction fans. Perfect for readers who love gritty, realistic police procedurals with strong female leads, complex cases, and authentic UK settings. If you enjoy Val McDermid, Peter James, or Stuart MacBride, you’ll devour these. Six books for one low price makes this an incredible value for thriller lovers! 🚔📚

The Silent Woman: A Thriller

Regularly $4.99, Today $2.49

Author: Minka Kent

Genre: Domestic Thrillers

Trust is a matter of life and death when secrets and lies threaten a new marriage in a twisting novel of psychological suspense by a Washington Post bestselling author.

Writer and newlywed Jade Westmore has finally found her forever in husband Wells, a charming, successful, and recently divorced architect. There’s just one caveat. Behind the gates of their elysian estate, hidden from street view in the caretaker’s cottage, lives Wells’s first wife, Sylvie.

Three years ago, the original Mrs. Westmore suffered an unfortunate accident. Near catatonic, Sylvie hasn’t spoken since. Not a physician, psychologist, or world-renowned specialist has been able to elicit so much as a sound from the silent woman. Until now. 🏡

On an ordinary Tuesday morning, while Wells is away—despite instructions to never disturb the fragile woman—Jade visits her isolated predecessor bearing a peace offering: a bouquet of white lilies. She isn’t expecting Sylvie to have something for her as well: a slip of torn notebook paper with a single word scrawled on it in shaky black ink.

That word? Run. 🏃‍♀️

What pulled me in: Minka Kent delivers a twisty, addictive domestic thriller with one of the creepiest premises you’ll encounter: what if your husband’s ex-wife lived on your property...and couldn’t speak? Kent masterfully ramps up the tension as Jade realizes nothing about her perfect new marriage is what it seems. This is psychological suspense at its finest—atmospheric, claustrophobic, and packed with revelations that will make you gasp. The isolated estate setting adds Gothic vibes, and the dynamic between the two Mrs. Westmores crackles with dread. Perfect for fans of B.A. Paris, Shari Lapena, Freida McFadden, and anyone who loves unreliable narrators, shocking twists, and stories about dangerous men and the women trying to escape them. Kent is a Washington Post bestselling author known for page-turners that keep you up all night, and this delivers on that promise. Trust no one, question everything, and maybe think twice before marrying someone whose ex is a little too conveniently silent. 😱🖤

Billionaire Bad Boy Auction

Regularly $4.99, Today $2.49

Author: Weston Parker

Genre: Billionaires & Millionaires Romance

I thought I’d be the grump on stage no one wanted. Arms crossed. Scowl in place. A charity auction disaster waiting to happen.

Then she raised her paddle. 💰

The girl from my past with a big smile and bigger heart.

She left town to chase dreams in a city that chewed her up and spit her out.

Now she’s back here.

And thanks to an accidental disaster of a bid, we’re stuck playing nice.

She wants a second chance at her life.I just want to keep my reckless brother out of handcuffs and this town out of my way.

But Portia doesn’t play by my rules.She talks back. She pushes in. And when she smiles?The storm inside me quiets. 🌪️❤️

This was supposed to be nothing.

But the more she’s in my space, the more I remember what it’s like to feel.

She thinks she’s just bidding on a grumpy billionaire.She doesn’t know I’m about to give her everything—Except my heart. 💔

What makes this special: Weston Parker delivers exactly what billionaire romance fans crave: a brooding hero with a hidden soft side, a sunshine heroine who won’t take his gruff attitude lying down, and sparks that fly from the moment they’re thrown together. The accidental auction bid creates the perfect forced proximity setup, and watching Portia chip away at the hero’s carefully constructed walls is deeply satisfying. This hits all the tropes: grumpy/sunshine, second-chance romance (they have history!), small-town setting, and the billionaire who insists he won’t fall in love but is already halfway gone. Perfect for fans of Vi Keeland, Penelope Ward, Lauren Landish, or anyone who loves alpha heroes who growl a lot but melt for the right woman. Parker writes banter that crackles, chemistry that sizzles, and happily-ever-afters that feel earned. If you want escapist romance with heart, heat, and a hero you’ll want to both shake and swoon over, this delivers! 💕✨

Mornings in Jenin: A Novel

Regularly $15.99, Today $3.99

Author: Susan Abulhawa

Genre: Historical Literary Fiction

Mornings in Jenin is a heart-wrenching multi-generational account of one family’s struggle and survival through the decades before and after Zionist colonization and theft of Palestine. Carrying us from Ein Hod to Jenin to Jerusalem, to Lebanon, then to the anonymity of America and finally back to Occupied Palestine, it is a novel of vital importance, “affirming all that is enduring and valuable in the undefeated human spirit” (Hanan Ashrawi).

Mornings in Jenin is the first mainstream novel in English to explore life in post-1948 Palestine. The novel was partially inspired by the Ghassan Kanafani novel Return to Haifa.

Filmworks Dubai bought the film rights to Mornings in Jenin, planning to begin production in late 2013. Anna Soler-Pont, head of the Pontas agency, which sold the film rights to the novel, said: “This is going to be a special project. There aren’t any epic films on Palestine yet.” However, the producer died shortly after and the rights reverted to her.

What makes this special: Susan Abulhawa’s Mornings in Jenin is a powerful, deeply moving novel that brings the Palestinian experience to life through one family’s journey across generations and continents. This is literary fiction that doesn’t shy away from political reality while remaining fundamentally a story about family, resilience, and the human cost of displacement. Abulhawa writes with both beauty and unflinching honesty about loss, identity, exile, and the meaning of home. The novel spans from the Nakba through decades of occupation, following characters from Ein Hod to refugee camps to America and back, showing how trauma ripples through generations but so does hope. Perfect for readers who loved Khaled Hosseini’s The Kite Runner or A Thousand Splendid Suns, Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing, or Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko—sweeping multi-generational epics that explore the impact of historical events on individual lives. This is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand Palestinian history through a human lens, told with literary skill and emotional depth. Be prepared for heartbreak, but also for beauty and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. This is a novel of vital importance. 🕊️📖

The Last Trial (Kindle County Book 11)

Regularly $9.99, Today $2.99

Author: Scott Turow

Genre: Legal Thrillers

Two formidable men collide in this “first-class legal thriller” and New York Times bestseller about a celebrated criminal defense lawyer and the prosecution of his lifelong friend — a doctor accused of murder (David Baldacci).

At eighty-five years old, Alejandro “Sandy” Stern, a brilliant defense lawyer with his health failing but spirit intact, is on the brink of retirement. But when his old friend Dr. Kiril Pafko, a former Nobel Prize winner in Medicine, is faced with charges of insider trading, fraud, and murder, his entire life’s work is put in jeopardy, and Stern decides to take on one last trial.

In a case that will be the defining coda to both men’s accomplished lives, Stern probes beneath the surface of his friend’s dazzling veneer as a distinguished cancer researcher. As the trial progresses, he will question everything he thought he knew about his friend. Despite Pafko’s many failings, is he innocent of the terrible charges laid against him? How far will Stern go to save his friend, and — no matter the trial’s outcome — will he ever know the truth?

Stern’s duty to defend his client and his belief in the power of the judicial system both face a final, terrible test in the courtroom, where the evidence and reality are sometimes worlds apart. Full of the deep insights into the spaces where the fragility of human nature and the justice system collide, Scott Turow’s The Last Trial is a masterful legal thriller that unfolds in page-turning suspense — and questions how we measure a life. ⚖️

Why I’m including this: Scott Turow—the master of the legal thriller who started it all with Presumed Innocent—returns to his beloved Kindle County for a poignant meditation on friendship, aging, justice, and truth. The Last Trial features Sandy Stern, one of the most compelling characters in legal fiction, facing his final case at 85 with his health declining but his mind still sharp. Turow brings decades of experience as both a lawyer and novelist to this courtroom drama, and it shows in every perfectly crafted scene. This isn’t just about legal maneuvering (though Turow excels at that)—it’s about what we owe our friends, how well we can ever truly know another person, and what justice means when the evidence is murky and motivations are complex. Perfect for fans of John Grisham, Michael Connelly’s Lincoln Lawyer series, or anyone who appreciates intelligent, character-driven legal thrillers that don’t insult your intelligence. David Baldacci called it “first-class,” and he’s right. This is mature, sophisticated storytelling from a genre legend at the height of his powers. Even if you haven’t read the previous Kindle County books, this works beautifully as a standalone—though longtime fans will appreciate the echoes of earlier novels. Essential reading for legal thriller fans! 📚

NEW RELEASES

Bottom of the Pyramid: A Memoir of Persevering, Dancing for Myself, and Starring in My Own Life

NEW RELEASE

Author: Nia Sioux

Genre: Memoir

When you’ve been told over and over that you belong at the bottom, how do you come out on top? Dance Moms star and triple threat Nia Sioux shows the way via her story of resilience, triumph, and defining success for herself. 💃

Young dancer Nia Sioux was only nine years old when she stepped into stardom as one of the original cast members of Lifetime’s reality TV show Dance Moms. Nia learned new choreography week after week and competed against dancers from across the country as well as at her own studio. Perhaps her greatest obstacle was suffering through her dance teacher’s ranking of the girls against each other in her infamous pyramid, where Nia spent the majority of her time on the bottom—all in front of an audience of millions. 📺

But there was much that viewers didn’t see. How her experiences in the studio went far beyond what made it into the show. How she was ostracized for not fitting into an aesthetic that wasn’t designed for girls like her. How her friendships and her mental health crumbled under the strain of the show. How she lost control of her story and her voice.

But don’t be fooled—this is a story about resilience. Nia is not looking for pity, sympathy, or validation as she reflects on her experiences. Instead, she is choosing to use her story as a celebration of triumph. Nia finally gets to tell her story in her own way and in her own words. In this captivating memoir, Nia reclaims both the spotlight and her narrative.

In addition to going behind the scenes of the seven seasons of Dance Moms, she shows how she fought against the negative perceptions that dominated her tween and teen years and emerged as a confident young woman secure in her talents and her direction. 🌟

What makes this special: For the millions who watched Dance Moms and saw Nia consistently placed at the bottom of Abby Lee Miller’s infamous pyramid, this memoir is both cathartic and inspiring. Nia Sioux finally gets to control her own narrative, revealing the racism, favoritism, and emotional manipulation that happened off-camera while celebrating her journey from child dancer to confident performer, actress, and role model. This isn’t a bitter tell-all—it’s a story of perseverance, self-discovery, and learning to define success on your own terms. Perfect for Dance Moms fans, young readers navigating pressure and comparison, anyone interested in behind-the-scenes reality TV stories, and readers who appreciate memoirs about overcoming adversity without becoming defined by it. Nia writes with maturity and grace about her experiences, offering both validation to those who struggled watching her treatment and inspiration to anyone who’s ever been told they’re not good enough. This is about starring in your own life, not someone else’s story. Essential reading for Dance Moms fans and anyone who needs a reminder that your worth isn’t determined by where others place you! 👑✨

Good Time Girl

Author: Heather Gay

NEW RELEASE

Genre: Love, Sex & Marriage Humor

The instant New York Times bestselling author of the “raw and revealing” (Interview magazine) Bad Mormon, and star of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and documentary series Surviving Mormonism, returns with a hilarious and candid national bestseller about life and love as a former Mormon, mother, and reality TV star.

In the “confident debut” (The Daily Beast) Bad Mormon, Heather Gay pulled back the veil on her orthodox adolescence and marriage in the Mormon Church, and the painful process of leaving it all behind. Becoming a successful business owner and reality TV star gave the single mom of three a second lease on life. After years of living in an insular bubble, Heather emerged bright-eyed, eager to take on the world…no matter how ill-equipped her upbringing might have left her. 🎉

Now, in this provocative and laugh-out-loud funny follow-up, the mother of three proves that she isn’t just a Bad Mormon—she’s also a Good Time Girl. With her “thoughtful, smart, and funny” (Kirkus Reviews) writing, Heather recounts the humorous trysts, mishaps, and serendipitous success she’s found as a life-long reveler in all things indulgent. From illicit high school trips to Tijuana and awkward dates set up by her overzealous costars, Good Time Girl is a charming and intimate meditation on community, love, independence, womanhood, and—most importantly—second chances. 💕

Why I’m including this: Heather Gay—breakout star of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City—proves once again that she can write with both humor and heart. After Bad Mormon chronicled her journey out of the Mormon Church, Good Time Girl celebrates what came next: learning to date, discovering her sexuality, navigating reality TV fame, and figuring out who she is beyond the roles others assigned her. Gay’s voice is refreshingly authentic—she’s self-deprecating without being self-pitying, hilarious without minimizing real pain, and honest about both her missteps and her triumphs. This is memoir-as-permission-slip: permission to reinvent yourself, to make mistakes, to have fun, to live fully after years of restriction. Perfect for fans of Jen Hatmaker, Glennon Doyle, or anyone who loves memoirs about women claiming their lives on their own terms. You don’t need to watch RHOSLC to enjoy this (though fans will eat it up), you just need to appreciate honest, funny writing about second acts, self-discovery, and becoming your own Good Time Girl. As thoughtful as it is entertaining, this is the perfect read for anyone navigating major life transitions or anyone who just needs a reminder that it’s never too late to start living for yourself! 🎊📖

The Quarry Girls: A Thriller

Regularly $4.99, Today $2.49NEW RELEASE

Author: Jess Lourey

Genre: Kidnapping Thrillers

Killers hiding in plain sight. Small-town secrets. A girl who knows too much. 🔦

From the Amazon Charts bestselling author of Unspeakable Things and Bloodline comes a nerve-twisting novel inspired by a shocking true crime.

Minnesota, 1977. For the teens of one close-knit community, summer means late-night swimming parties at the quarry, the county fair, and venturing into the tunnels beneath the city. But for two best friends, it’s not all fun and games.

Heather and Brenda have a secret. Something they saw in the dark. Something they can’t forget. They’ve decided to never tell a soul. But their vow is tested when their friend disappears—the second girl to vanish in a week. And yet the authorities are reluctant to investigate.

Heather is terrified that the missing girls are connected to what she and Brenda stumbled upon that night. Desperately searching for answers on her own, she learns that no one in her community is who they seem to be. Not the police, not the boys she met at the quarry, not even her parents. But she can’t stop digging because she knows those girls are in danger.

She also knows she’s next. 😰

What makes this special: Jess Lourey writes crime fiction that gets under your skin and stays there. Inspired by true events, The Quarry Girls captures the suffocating atmosphere of a 1970s small town where everyone knows everyone—which makes it all the more horrifying when evil hides in plain sight. Lourey excels at period detail (the tunnels, the quarry, the summer of ‘77 vibe) and at creating protagonists who feel authentic rather than precocious. Heather’s terror is palpable as she realizes the adults won’t help and she’s on her own. This is suspense done right: atmospheric, character-driven, and genuinely frightening. Perfect for fans of Gillian Flynn, Lisa Jewell, Karin Slaughter, and anyone who loves thrillers rooted in real crimes that explore how communities protect their own—even when “their own” are monsters. Fair warning: this deals with kidnapping and violence against young women, so proceed with care if these are triggers. But if you want a thriller that will keep you up all night (both from suspense and from checking your locks), this is essential reading! 🚨📚



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