Today's Featured Books

Spotlight on The Bourbon Books: A "charming and steamy" RomCom series from Allison Martine

Romance Spotlight

Today, LitNuts is shining a spotlight on The Bourbon Books, a fun romantic comedy series from author Allison Martine. To make the series even more appealing, you can purchase each title in e-book format for only 99 cents (free via Kindle Unlimited)! Read on to learn more about the series and the author.

★★★★★ "Realistic romance with sexy moments and delicious humor." ~Amazon Review of dibs, Book 1 of The Bourbon Books


dibs

Book 1 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.23 stars, 137 ratings on Goodreads
4.2 stars, 130 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Not tonight, Olivia.

Olivia’s ex-husband shut her down so many times before the cheating bastard left her that Olivia lost count. She didn’t realize she’d also lost the ability to banter, interpret body language, or accept that a man could find her desirable. None of that should matter when she leaves for a two-week training for her new job with the Ranchers, an outdoorsy nonprofit, but when her co-worker adds ‘halter top’ and ‘bikini’ to the official pack list, she has no idea what to expect on this trip.

It certainly wasn’t a perky blonde roommate who thinks their training is like spring break, but with a paycheck. It wasn’t the after-hours hot tub. It absolutely wasn’t the man with a rumble for a laugh who shows up on her flight and introduces himself as the colleague she didn’t know would be her companion for the next two weeks.

When blondie calls dibs on that same colleague, Olivia just wants to stay out of her way, but her colleague has ideas of his own. Ideas which involve Olivia, the hot tub, and shared sips of bourbon.

Praise for dibs

  • Best RomCom, N.N. Light Book Award
  • Finalist - Romance, Kindle Book Awards
  • "A romance novel that will make you smile and swoon." ~Reedsy.
  • ★★★★★ "Cute contemporary romance!" ~Goodreads Review
  • ★★★★★ "A Hint of spice, a dollop of barbeque sauce, and a glass of good bourbon." ~Amazon Review

Since September

Book 2 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.29 stars, 49 ratings on Goodreads
4.3 stars, 44 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $13.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Most brides dream of planning every last detail of their wedding. Not Olivia Markham. She’d been down the aisle once already and regretted that decision, along with every other judgment call connected with her unfaithful ex. But she also never planned on falling for Adam Burkhardt, who proposed sooner than anyone could have guessed.

When Adam suggests letting their mothers suss out the particulars for their big day, Olivia agrees, hoping it will assuage their mothers’ trepidation towards their upcoming union. She even relents to having a bachelorette weekend, for the sake of her friends. Olivia shall endure more nuptial nonsense and play bride once again.

They should have eloped.

Praise for Since September

  • ★★★★★ "A fun-filled, delightful, and swoon-worthy sequel!" ~Amazon Review
  • ★★★★★ "An amusing and easy read romance tale." ~Bedside Book Review

Move On, Melinda

Book 3 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.62 stars, 21 ratings on Goodreads
4.7 stars, 25 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

There are worse things than being a bridesmaid at your best friend’s wedding. Hitting on the groom? Ancient history. Hitting on the best man? Regrettable but forgettable. Getting pawned off on some random guy who came as his mom’s date? Could be worse. But more happened the night of the Burkhardt wedding than Melinda is ready to admit.

Now, Melinda is determined to move forward and leave all that behind. She just has to survive the Ranchers’ All Staff Retreat, carpooling with her meddling boss, the fresh-from-their honeymoon newlyweds, and a certain unexpected passenger she’d hoped to avoid for the weekend—and the memories he stirs up.

Praise for Move On, Melinda

  • ★★★★★ "A charming, well-written modern romance." ~Goodreads Review
  • ★★★★★ "The Bourbon Books keep getting better and better...and sexier and sexier!" ~Amazon Review

Climb the Salmon Ladder

Book 4 in The Bourbon Books series
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Contemporary Romance, Workplace Romance
4.69 stars, 16 ratings on Goodreads
4.6 stars, 17 ratings on Amazon
Paperback: $12.99
Ebook: $0.99 (Free via Kindle Unlimited)  

Jamie Wallace was settled, not settling. Good job, great friends, and a glass of wine was all she needed for her little slice of heaven. Sure, everyone around her was pairing off like they’d just announced it was time to board Noah’s Ark, but Jamie never minded a little rain. But when a curveball out of left field blindsides her, knocking her long game out the window, she’ll have to scramble—and pack her bags.

Bolstered by unlikely allies, she’s got to prove herself, and keep her eye on the prize. That same eye needs to stop wandering to check out the competition. She’s come to fight for the life she’s earned, not share after-hours Malbec in her hotel room.

She’ll summon everything she has—from her no-nonsense attitude to her years of true leadership—to manifest her destiny. No matter what. Even if she’s no longer sure what that destiny should be.

Praise for Climb the Salmon Ladder

  • ★★★★★ "The best installment in this romance series yet." ~Amazon Review
  • ★★★★★ "Heart, humor, and just enough heat to make us impatiently wonder when the next book will drop." ~Goodreads Review

The Bourbon Books
Get the entire series of four books for Kindle for $3.96!





About the Author
Allison Martine is a multi-genre novelist. She hosts the literary podcast, TO THE MOON, ALLISON, and co-hosts the live weekly video podcast, VOX VOMITUS, interviewing bestselling authors and other creatives. Learn more at afictionalhubbard.com, sign up for her newsletter, and be sure to follow Allison online: 
 
        


Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction

Events

Free online tonight: Friends & Fiction. Join the hosts of this popular web show as they interview bestselling authors. Tonight's guest: Janet Skeslien Charles, a New York Times and international bestselling author whose work has been translated into 37 languages. Wednesday, May 1, 7 PM EST.

"Books and ideas are like blood; they need to circulate, and they keep us alive." ~Janet Skeslien Charles, The Paris Library


FREE - Engaging Miss Shaw by Rachel Knowles

Romance

Bath 1815: All John Derringer wants is to disappear into his research. But after his brother's death, he must take on the family estate and care for his orphaned nephew. When Evelina Shaw hears of Mr. Derringer’s need for a governess, she seizes the opportunity to escape from her sister’s matchmaking. But as her life becomes entwined with the Derringer family, neither she nor John can predict the consequences. "A fabulous storyline with twists, transformations, and tender romance." ~Amazon Review. 4.5 stars, 67 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW


A Shoe is to Chew by Siski Kalla

Children and Young Adult

A laugh-out-loud look at how dogs might define everyday objects and activities, in contrast with how we 'hoomans' describe the very same things! With bold, vibrant illustrations, this book will delight readers young and old who will recognize their own furry friends and their unique view of the world. With a customizable section, this is the ideal gift for dog lovers and pawrents. 4.9 stars, 18 ratings. From $1.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


The Icehouse by J.J. Richards

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

After a body turns up in the sleepy village of Rufford, DCI Jonathan Walker returns from leave early, his experience deemed crucial for the case. But when the investigation leads to a decades-old cold case involving the murder of his sister, the crime becomes personal. Book 1 in the series. 4.1 stars, 761 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Three Shades Called Horace by Jinx James

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

"Offbeat supernatural romp...the characters were fascinating and the plot was delightfully twisted." ~Amazon Review. A hilarious witch's brew conjures up famous ghosts, a witch, a psychic, a scheming media mogul, the CIA, and more. Can Max help psychic Pansy prevail against the dark forces of corporate greed and black magic? A romantic paranormal thriller that will have your heart in your mouth. "Lots of twists and awesome revenge. Loved the ending!" ~Amazon Review. 4.6 stars, 9 ratings. From $4.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW /


Magic and Miracle Multi Author Anthology

Science Fiction and Fantasy

New release! Escape with a dozen fabulous short stories from best-selling authors in this Limited Edition anthology full of happily-ever-afters, including magical suspense and retellings of Regency, Fairy, and Greek Mythology stories. Ebook, paperback, and hardback editions available. A share of proceeds will be contributed to Primary Children's Hospital in Salt Lake City. From $2.99 SHOP NOW


The 2 Keys To Permanent Weight Loss by Ken Flett

General Nonfiction

If your journey of weight loss feels like never-ending waves of hope and disappointment, this is the guide you've been searching for. Ken Flett, who battled his own weight challenges, has crafted a narrative that deeply resonates with anyone who's experienced the societal pressures and the frustrating cycle of yo-yo dieting. Weight loss is not just about what you eat or how much you exercise; it’s about unlocking the transformative power of your mind and aligning your hormones to work for you. 4.7 stars, 72 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Finding Happiness by Boyd London

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

What is it really like to be in the military? In this autobiography, Boyd London, tells how he found happiness through his experience in the military in the heat of Saudi Arabia, in the harsh cold of Alaska, after a devastating car accident, and no matter what he faced. From $7 SHOP NOW


Whispers of the Nordic Draugr by Caroline Helenasdotter

Romance

A Steamy, Mythological Romantasy. In the misty realm of 16th-century Scandinavia, Katarina is possessed by the elusive mare. Ulrik, the enigmatic master of her estate, harbors dark, demonic secrets while battling his own past and his tyrannical maker. Their fates entwine in a deadly game of love and darkness. Prepare to be ensnared in a spellbinding tale where love defies shadows and ancient legends blur the line between hero and villain. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


New release: The Sister Knot from Ann S. Epstein & Vine Leaves Press

Spotlight

Congratulations to Ann S. Epstein and Vine Leaves Press on the release of The Sister Knot, a poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the enduring strength of the ties that bind.

★★★★★ "A moving, thorough, and entrancing novel about how two orphaned young Berlin women become each other’s family during and after the Holocaust." ~Simone Yehuda, contributing author of The Ones Who Remember: Second-Generation Voices of the Holocaust


The Sister Knot

NEW RELEASE: April 30, 2024
Genre: Historical Fiction
Paperback: $17.99
Ebook: $5.99  



In the heart-wrenching tapestry of The Sister Knot, an enthralling tale unfolds, weaving the resilient bond of a female friendship against the backdrop of history. Set amidst the shadows of World War II, Liane and Frima, survivors of Holocaust trauma, find solace and strength in each other. Through cunning, theft, and prostitution, they navigate the unforgiving streets of Berlin and post-war existence.

Brought to the United States by a Jewish refugee agency, their destinies diverge, yet the unbreakable thread of their connection persists. Frima, the adopted sister, seemingly lives the American dream—excelling in academics, a prestigious college, a successful husband, intelligent children, and a fulfilling teaching career. On the other side of fate, Liane, thrust into a group home, rejects the conventional path, embracing a life of dead-end jobs, relinquishing a daughter for adoption, and finding solace in her art even amidst the struggles that lead her to prison.

Through six decades marked by drifting apart and fierce reunions, their trajectories reverse, challenging preconceived notions about destiny.

The Sister Knot beckons with its poignant exploration of friendship, resilience, and the enduring strength of the ties that bind. Join Liane and Frima on their journey through the tapestry of time, where the echoes of the past resonate in the unspoken language of sisterhood.

Praise for The Sister Knot
★★★★★ "A rich exploration of how individuals can emerge from challenging beginnings, finding strength and comfort in each other, despite the different paths their lives take... beautifully written and emotionally charged." ~Deepak Singh, author of Yaad Mohalla

★★★★★ "Liane follows a difficult path that includes an out-of-wedlock child and jail. Her close friend, Frima, is adopted into a loving family looking for a traditional daughter to bring them joy and grandchildren... The arc of their story will remain with readers long after the last page." ~Beth Kirschner, author of Copper Divide

★★★★★ "A painting of the intense, complex, difficult and joyful rhythms and layers of women’s relationships to one another." ~Rusty Allen, author of Ella’s War


About the Author
Ann S. Epstein writes novels, stories, memoir, poems, and essays. Her awards include a Pushcart Prize nomination for creative nonfiction, the Walter Sullivan prize in fiction, an Editors’ Choice selection by Historical Novel Review, and St. Lawrence Book Award Finalist nomination. Ann’s fiction credits include the novels On the Shore, Tazia and Gemma, A Brain. A Heart. The Nerve., The Great Stork Derby, and One Person’s Loss. Her work also appears in North American Review, Sewanee Review, PRISM International, Ascent, The Long Story, and elsewhere. In addition to writing, she has a doctorate in developmental psychology, a Master of Fine Arts in fiber, and certification as an end-of-life doula. To learn more, visit asewovenwords.com.
About the Publisher
Vine Leaves Press likes to blur the line between commercial and experimental works. They publish book-length vignette collections, writing reference books, short story collections, memoir/autobiography, and character-driven novels with a literary bent.​ Subscribe to the Vine Leaves Press newsletter to receive FREE advanced review copies of upcoming new releases, news about their authors and subscribers, and/or to read the monthly opinion column, SPILL IT! or a daily dose of 50-word stories. Learn more at VineLeavesPress.com


New Giveaway: Win $100 in Books!

Giveaways

New Giveaway: Win $100 in Books. Enter the LitNuts Spring Giveaway for a chance to win $100 in books. Earn entry points by signing up for the newsletter (yes, you can earn points by signing up even if you're already signed up!), visiting LitNuts.com, following us on social media, retweeting, and more. Deadline for entry is May 31. Winner will be announced June 1.

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body." ~Richard Steele


The Anachain by R. J. Francis

Book of the Day

New release! It’s July 2134, and Earth’s VR-immersed humans don’t know they are about to be wiped out by a cataclysm known as The Anachain. Young warrior Ariane does know, and she and her family have a plan to survive. As the days of darkness approach, Ariane juggles sheltering an enemy supersoldier, carrying out eco-missions, seeking out a powerful AI entity for advice, and falling in love. From $5.99 SHOP NOW


FREE - Ice Crown by Kay L. Moody

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Talise must win a competition to save her life. Her power over the elements is unrivaled, but Aaden, a handsome and infuriating competitor, threatens her success. Torn between duty and freedom, Talise must learn that clinging to the past may destroy her future. A novella related to The Elements of Kamdaria series. Fans of epic fantasy, royalty, intrigue, and magic will love this completed YA Fantasy series. 4.2 stars, 286 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW


FREE - Scam A-Lama Ding Dong by Jinx James

Literary Fiction and Poetry

“A rollicking romp deep inside the life of an aging Rock Star dinosaur. You'll laugh out loud.” ~Amazon review. Slide into the sleazy side of Show Biz with legendary Rock Star Marc Charles as he uncovers a sneaky mafia-like scam to con him. Marc stakes everything to outwit the crooked "pay-to-play" scammers. As the suspense builds, he must use all his cunning to beat them. But can he? It's a wild ride with a cheeky plot twist. 4.1 stars, 42 ratings. FREE - SHOP NOW


FREE - Finding Miss Giles by Philippa Jane Keyworth

Romance

Bath, 1780: Without family or fortune, Miss Araminta Giles must rely on her wit alone. But when she is hired by Mr. Derringer to be companion to his sister for the Bath Season, Ary finds herself warming to Charlotte and Mr. Derringer, and hoping for more than just a roof over her head. Will she keep going through life relying only on herself? Or is she willing to take a chance on a home, family and love? "A delightful tale about the subtle love between hero and heroine." ~Goodreads Review. 4.4 stars, 58 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW


Rise to the Horizon by Hyunah Kim

Literary Fiction and Poetry

Poseidon, a show jumping horse, is injured in a fire and becomes aggressive due to trauma. A horse whisperer named Axel, with a special ability to communicate with horses, is asked to help by Poseidon's owner, Martha. Despite the vet's recommendation to euthanize the horse, Axel takes on the challenge to heal Poseidon. Can Axel save Poseidon? A heartwarming tale of the transformative bond between a man and a horse. 4.5 stars, 195 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Can't Tame a Mongoose by Stan Rose

Memoir and Creative Nonfiction

Stan Rose, Ph.D., shares stories from his life as an MIT biologist turned successful entrepreneur, illustrating the inevitable, unexpected events that impact his business and life, and strategies to increase the likelihood of overcoming unanticipated challenges and seizing emergent opportunities. "A must-read for anyone with entrepreneurial aspirations." ~Amazon Review. 4.9 stars, 38 ratings. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


Camelot Resurrection by Ryan Gaskin

Science Fiction and Fantasy

Arthur Pendragon has emerged from his exile, eager to lead his people and reclaim his birthright. Before he can avenge his father, the oldest and most dangerous enemies from his past return to challenge Arthur’s claim as Uther Pendragon’s rightful heir as King of Camelot. With the help of Merlin, he will have to overcome insurmountable odds if he is to resurrect the Pendragon Dynasty. Book 3 in The Kings of Camelot series. From $2.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


FREE - Her Outlaw Highlander by Michelle Deerwester-Dalrymple

Romance

A Steamy Scottish Historical Romance. Anice Grant is a hard-working lass, focused on caring for her brother, yet loneliness overwhelms her. When a strange man comes to her aid and fights of a band of brigands, she learns her savior is Reardon, assigned to the Grant clan by Sir Robert the Bruce. Reardon falls hard for Anice, and she returns his affections. But the evil undersheriff is out to get Reardon, with his burgeoning loveand Anice's lifein the balance. 4.1 stars, 35 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW


Wisdom from the Inner Oracle by Mohammed Ali Ejaz

General Nonfiction

Do you feel there is a greater purpose for your life and humanity? This book teaches the importance of living an ambitious and purposeful life. You will learn the importance of knowing your life purpose and taking the necessary steps towards your success; why living morally and holistically is essential for the evolution and wellbeing of humanity; and how experiencing suffering and expressing gratitude can make you strong. 4.5 stars, 30 ratings. From $0.99 SHOP NOW


Ring of Fire by Matthew Balleza

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

Time. Pressure. Ice-cold fear. Nashville's new hockey arena chills with bomb threats. Tom Cash, ex-sports agent turned investigator, hunts the culprit through a maze of suspects: a shady zamboni driver, a brooding Russian star, and a city simmering with hidden grudges. Can he crack the code before the arena becomes a fiery tomb? 4.0 stars, 69 ratings. From $0.99. Free via KU. SHOP NOW


Axel's Promise by Alicia LaBatti

Science Fiction and Fantasy

When worlds collide, what would you do? Axel's Promise is an epic fantasy adventure that follows the story of Axel, an ordinary office worker who was transported to a parallel universe through his dreams. Now tasked to defend this world with brand new powers and his two female companions, Axel has to fulfill his promise, and a promise means one thousand words. From $9.99 SHOP NOW


Freebie Special Edition - All books free today!

Welcome to the LitNuts Freebie Special Edition, a selection of indie books, all 100% free today! Choose from an assortment of Literary Fiction, Children/Young Adult, General Nonfiction, and Mystery/Thriller/Crime/Horror books. 

"The best things in life are free." ~Coco Chanel


The Mazatlan Showdown by Patrick Weill

Mystery Thriller Crime and Horror

Jeff Walker, a champion surfer haunted by the unsolved mystery of his father’s murder and his mother’s broken heart, relocates to sunny San Diego and secures a job as a beach lifeguard. When a rescue mission at sea hurls him into the sticky web of an international smuggling ring, he aids the police in their investigation, and the plot thickens when Walker discovers that the mastermind behind the criminal operation is the very killer he’s been searching for since he was a teenager! 4.2 stars 45 ratings on Goodreads. FREE - SHOP NOW