Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Off the Bench by Tiffany Noelle Chacon Excerpt & Giveaway

Off the Bench
Tiffany Noelle Chacon
(Sports in the Sunshine State RomComs, #2)
Publication date: November 19th 2024
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Austin Taylor, once an undrafted free agent and a third-string quarterback, was never supposed to be the starting QB for the Tampa Bay Bucs.

Except now, he is.

Dani Marshall, the Bucs’ data analyst whiz, is all in—betting her career, and even her car, on Austin’s success. The real challenge? Keeping her heart out of the game.

Austin

When the achingly gorgeous Dani Marshall shows up in my tiny Ohio town to sign me to the Bucs, I can’t say no. I expect to ride the bench in obscurity for my entire NFL career. What I don’t expect is to become the starting QB in my first month—or to end up as a viral GIF, tripping over my cleats.

Dani’s betting on me, but I’m starting to think her faith might be misplaced. The closer we get, the more her walls stay mile-high—even as I’m being pulled to her as surely as the moon pulls the tides.

Dani

Research shows that spending time together and sharing personal goals increases the likelihood of developing romantic feelings by 30%. (I will not be part of this statistic. I will not be part of this statistic. I will NOT be part… oh crap.)

After I sign Austin Taylor to the Bucs, I make it my mission to stay away from him—he’s too attractive for me, and, as an absolute rule, I don’t date athletes. Not after what happened last time.

But when I make a bet with my work nemesis over Austin Taylor’s performance, my car is on the line. Now I have to get involved.

The problem? The more I work with Austin Taylor, the more afraid I am that he’s going to steal my heart.

This is the first novel in the Sports in the Sunshine State RomCom series: a collection of interconnected, clean sports romances, each featuring its own unique love story. While all books are linked, they can be enjoyed as standalones. You’ll enjoy high-action sports sequences, sizzling chemistry, with no cursing or smut.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble

EXCERPT:

This scene picks up after the NFL draft, where Austin did not get drafted. His two friends, Omar and Caleb, take him out to try to cheer him up.

As I peruse the new photographs in my buddy Omar’s bar, my eye catches on a girl walking into the bar. She’s tall and elegant, gliding as if she’s not even touching the ground. I find myself taking in every detail of her, because I can’t help it. Her braids are caught in a twisting bun at the top of her head. Her almond-shaped eyes are assessing the room, as if she’s looking for someone. Her dark cheekbones shimmer with a mesmerizing blend of girl magic that I don’t understand. I admit I linger a little too long on her full lips. Her long neck reminds me of a dancer—she’s as graceful as a ballerina. I’ve only gotten to her shoulders when Caleb notices my perusal.

“Ask her to come over here,” he says, mouth full with chicken wings.

I force my eyes from her, feeling greedy for more. I push my IPA away, wondering if the pull I feel toward her is more a product of the alcohol rather than some kind of supernatural tug she has.

“I’m not going to go just talk to some random girl who’s clearly here to meet someone else.”

“Maybe she’s here to meet a hunky football player,” Omar says with a smirk.

I snort, but don’t speak the words that come to my mind: I’m not a football player anymore.

And it’s the first time since the draft ended that I’ve felt a deep twinge of grief. I may have convinced myself that I’m content with how things worked out, but I’ve been a football player my whole life. I don’t know how not to be a football player. I sigh and half-heartedly dip a chip in the artichoke dip when I realize Caleb and Omar are still looking at me expectantly. “Guys, I’m not going to go talk to her. It’s just not who I am.”

“Tell me, exactly, what you are, man. Because I don’t get it.” Omar’s got that fire in his dark brown eyes that always makes me a little uncomfortable, like he’s about to start a fight. “From where I’m sitting, it seems like you’re just someone who lets opportunities slip from his fingers without a fight.”

“Dang, bro, chill,” Caleb says to Omar as he reaches for more nachos.

“It’s fine,” I say.

Omar plants his hands on the table, standing. “It’s not fine.” And then he walks away.

“Who got his panties in a bunch?” I mutter.

“He’s overcompensating for your lack of feelings over the draft thing,” Caleb says in a fleeting moment of insight. I grunt and return to my IPA. But I just about spit it out when I realize Omar’s gone over to talk to the girl. I mutter under my breath as I set the IPA back on the table, where it sloshes over the edge, getting beer all over my hand. I scramble for a napkin, keeping my focus on wiping up my mess as I sense Omar and the girl walking over to our table.

When she’s beside us, I finally glance up. Looking at her up close takes my breath away, and I’m pathetically speechless.

“Austin Taylor?” she says as I’m momentarily distracted by the mesmerizing way her lips move. Then I’m confused about how she knows my full name.

“Uh, yeah?” I’m struck next by how closed off her features are. This girl didn’t come over here to flirt with a guy—and the realization cuts almost as deep as my football future.

Then, she says the craziest words I’ve ever heard: “My name is Dani Marshall and I’m here to sign you to the Tampa Bay Bucs.”

Want to find out what happens with Dani and Austin? Pre-order Off the Bench here. While you wait, read the first two chapters on my website here.


Author Bio:

Tiffany LOVES love. Married to her middle school sweetheart, this award-winning novelist adores writing stories with heart, humor, and depth. As a five-time national equestrian champion, she loves sports romances with heart-pounding action sequences and a whole lot of sweet romance. She received her Masters of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from the University of Tampa. A homeschooling mama, she lives in Tampa with her husband and their two wild and crazy sons. She loves hearing from readers and would love to connect with you on any social media platform at authortiffanynoellechacon or on her website at tiffanynoellechacon . com.

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Goodreads


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Copper Waters (Annalisse Series #4) By Marlene M. Bell Review

Copper Waters book cover
Copper Waters (Annalisse Series #4)
By Marlene M. Bell
Genre: Mystery / Suspense
Age category: Adult
Release Date: 5 December 2022

Blurb:
A rural New Zealand vacation turns poisonous.

Antiquities expert Annalisse Drury and tycoon Alec Zavos are at an impasse in their relationship when Alec refuses to clear up a paternity issue with an ex-lover.

Frustrated with his avoidance when their future is at stake, Annalisse accepts an invitation from an acquaintance to fly to New Zealand—hoping to escape the recent turbulence in her life.

But even Annalisse’s cottage idyll on the family sheep farm isn’t immune to intrigue.

Alec sends a mutual friend and detective, Bill Drake, to follow her, and a local resident who accompanies them from the Christchurch airport dies mysteriously soon after. A second violent death finds Annalisse and Bill at odds with the official investigations.

The local police want to close both cases as quickly as possible—without unearthing the town’s dirty secrets.

As she and Bill pursue their own leads at serious cost, the dual mysteries force Annalisse to question everything she thought she knew about family ties, politics, and the art of small-town betrayal.


Links:
- Goodreads
- Bookbub
- Amazon
- B&N


Earlier books in the series:
Stolen Obsession (Annalisse Series #1) by Marlene M. BellSpent Identity (Annalisse Series #2) by Marlene M. BellShattered Legacy (Annalisse Series #3)


Marlene M. Bell
About the Author:
Marlene M. Bell is an eclectic mystery writer, artist, photographer, and she raises sheep in beautiful East Texas with her husband, Gregg, three cats and a flock of horned Dorset sheep.

The Annalisse series has received numerous honors including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery (Spent Identity,) and FAPA— Florida Author’s President’s Gold Award for two other installments, (Stolen Obsession and Scattered Legacy.) Her mysteries with a touch of romance are found at marlenembell.com. She also offers the first of her children's picture books, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team! Based on true events from the Bell’s ranch. The simple text and illustrations are a touching tribute of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb.

Author links:
- Website
- Facebook
- Twitter
- Bookbub
- Goodreads
- Amazon
- Instagram

My Review:
This book picked up where book 3 left off. I was not happy to see that Alec and Annalisse were fighting. This installment brings us to New Zealand. The author has a great way of describing where the characters are. I learned a lot about sheep and found it interesting. Again the author is great at mystery and kept me very intrigued by the plot. The book was hard to put down. There is definitely something about this author and long-hidden family secrets. I love the story arc from all four books and I can not wait to read more from this author. The secondary characters and their banter was well worth the read. They carry their own and make for great secondary plots. I definitely recommend this series be read all at once. I hope to see these lovebirds in future works by the author. I would love updates. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.

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Scattered Legacy (Annalisse Series #3) By Marlene M. Bell Review

Scattered Legacy
Scattered Legacy (Annalisse Series #3)
By Marlene M. Bell
Genre: Mystery / Suspense
Age category: Adult
Release Date: 4 November 2021

Blurb:
To outsiders, the relationship between Manhattan antiquities assessor Annalisse Drury and sports car magnate Alec Zavos must look carefree and glamorous. In reality, it’s a love affair regularly punctuated by treasure hunting, action-packed adventure, and the occasional dead body.

When Alec schedules an overseas trip to show Annalisse his mother's birthplace in Bari, Italy, he squeezes in the high-stakes business of divesting his family’s international corporation. But things go terribly wrong as murder makes its familiar reappearance in their lives – and this time it’s Alec’s disgraced former CFO who’s the main suspect.

Accompanied by friend and detective Bill Drake, Annalisse and Alec find themselves embroiled in a behind-closed-doors conspiracy that threatens the reputation and legacy of Alec’s late father – linking him to embezzlement, extortion, and the dirty business of the Sicilian Mafia. The search for the truth sends the trio straight into riddles, secrets, and an historic set of rosary beads. Annalisse leads Alec toward a discovery that is unthinkable, and events that will change their futures forever.

Scattered Legacy is the third in Marlene M. Bell’s thrilling Annalisse series, which weaves romance, crime, and historical mystery into addictive tales to instantly captivate fans of TV show Bones or Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code.


Links:
- Goodreads
- Bookbub
- Amazon

You can watch the book trailer here on Youtube

Scattered Legacy teaser


Earlier books in the series:

Stolen Obsession (Annalisse Series #1) by Marlene M. BellSpent Identity (Annalisse Series #2) by Marlene M. Bell


Marlene M. Bell
About the Author:
Marlene M. Bell is an eclectic mystery writer, artist, photographer, and she raises sheep in beautiful East Texas with her husband, Gregg, three cats and a flock of horned Dorset sheep.

The Annalisse series has received numerous honors including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery (Spent Identity,) and FAPA— Florida Author’s President’s Gold Award for two other installments, (Stolen Obsession and Scattered Legacy.) Her mysteries with a touch of romance are found at marlenembell.com. She also offers the first of her children's picture books, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team! Based on true events from the Bell’s ranch. The simple text and illustrations are a touching tribute of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb.

Author links:
- Website
- Facebook
- Twitter
- Bookbub
- Goodreads
- Amazon
- Instagram


My Review:
I was lucky enough to read book 1 in this series, and could not wait to read books 3 and 4. Annalisse is a fun character. She is a great gallery owner, preceptive and unsure of herself. Alec is perfect for her, but she does not realize it. The mystery of the rosary was really interesting. Especially since my family is from Italy. I really enjoyed the descriptive places that the author took me to. The mystery kept me intrigued and I was pleasantly surprised by the reveals at the end of the story. There was a major cliffhanger at the very end of the book. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own. 


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Fun, Fast & Easy Dog Training for Kids: Super Dog Training Academy by Tom Mitchell Review

 


Synopsis

Fun, Fast & Easy Dog Training for Kids: Super Dog Training Academy” is narrated by Roxy the Super Dog.


In Chapters 1 through 3, Roxy explores the ancient bond between dogs and humans. Readers learn that all dogs can become super heroes through proper training. The 1 Minute Dog Training method is introduced as the best way to train dogs.

In Chapter 4, Roxy highlights the importance of treating dogs with kindness and respect. Readers learn how word choice, tone, and body language shape their relationship with their dogs.

Chapters 5 through 8 focus on practical training tips. Roxy teaches essential skills like Sit, Stay, and Come. She shares how to use treats and playtime as rewards. Helpful illustrations demonstrate how to safely hold a puppy and soothe an anxious dog.

Chapters 9 through 12 explore leash manners, cleaning up after your dog, and respecting boundaries when meeting new dogs. Roxy teaches how to read body language cues and identify when a dog may be fearful or aggressive.

In Chapter 13 and 14, Roxy helps readers create routines for their dogs. She highlights the different needs of puppies, older dogs, and rescue dogs.

Chapter 15 introduces the Tellington TTouch® as a way to comfort and reward dogs. Roxy guides readers through these gentle circles that aid in relaxation and stress relief. The final five chapters focus on potty training, teaching polite greetings,

interpreting barks, and making bath time enjoyable. Roxy emphasizes that trainers do not need to “alpha” their dogs. She recommends that readers only use positive reinforcement.

“Fun, Fast & Easy Dog Training for Kids: Super Dog Training Academy” offers a fun and informative journey into the world of dogs. Roxy makes dog training exciting for kids! With consistent 1 minute training sessions, young readers can strengthen their bond with their furry friends.
About the Author:
Tom Mitchell is a seasoned animal behaviorist with over 30 years of experience workingwith a diverse range of animals. This includes puppies and dogs, service animals, wild wolves, zoo animals, aggressive house cats, and Olympic equestrian teams.

My Review:
This is a fun, fast read for anyone that has a dog. It includes tips on giving treats to, walking and bath time. There is a review section at the end of each chapter to remind the reader of important things mentioned. The illustrations are fun and whimsical. The step by step instructions are easy to follow, There is also a QR code that links to videos that also help with training. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, however all opinions are my own.

Sylvia Doe and The 100-Year Flood Review


Sylvia Doe doesn't know where she was born or the people she came from. She doesn't even know her real last name. Sylvia has lived at the Highground Home for Children in the mountains of North Carolina for as long as she can remember. Whenever the administrators place her with a foster family in the city, she runs away, back to her horse Kitty Hawk—her best friend—and the other horses in the herd, the only place she feels like she belongs.

When Hurricane Jessamine causes the remote mountain valley where she lives to flood, Sylvia must rescue her beloved horses. But she begins to encounter strange and wondrous things floating down the river. Glittering gemstones and wild animals that don't belong — everything's out of place. Then she spots an unconscious boy floating in the water. As she drags him onto the shore and their adventure together begins, Sylvia wonders who he is and where he came from. And why does she feel such a strong connection to this mysterious boy?


My Review:

I am not really sure how to categorize this story. It is part fantasy, part history, part YA romance, and part mystery. The author did a great job explaining the different animals that were from different periods. The illustrated pages were fun and informative. I really enjoyed them and learned some new things. The different animals were from different times and places. The author also shows the impact of floods on the land and on the people affected. Sylvia is a great character, she needs a foster home but can not leave the home for children behind. Jorna was an interesting character. Sylvia does not realize how important he is to her. The flood chutes were amazing to think about and I could visualize the different scenes that Sylvia saw. My favorite part of the book was the plesiosaur fossil. I am giving this book a 5/5. It is fun, informative, and imaginative. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. I really loved this story!