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GRINCH GIRL: Release day blog post featuring Michelle Dayton!

November 7, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

I’m so excited for the release of my first Christmas story, GRINCH GIRL! It’s bittersweet, though, because this book is the finale of my Tech-nically Love series, which I have loved writing.

As with the other books in the series, I created a playlist of songs that kept me firmly in the world of my characters as I wrote … I hope you enjoy!

GRINCH GIRL Playlist

  1. 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton.  My main character, Jane, is a hard-working woman! She works three jobs and lives in a small town that’s struggling to survive.
  2. Surface Pressure – Jessica Darrow.  Yes, this is from Encanto.  And while “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” is a banger, “Surface Pressure” is my favorite song from that movie.  I feel like most women can relate to the intense feeling of having to hold it all together, of needing to be the emotional rock of their families.  Although Jane doesn’t see herself this way, she’s been the rock for multiple people in her life over the past decade.
  3. ‘tis the damn season – Taylor Swift.  This song is about returning home for the holidays and hooking up with a past love. It’s a wistful love song about the road not taken.  In GRINCH GIRL, Jane’s childhood BFF –and current enemy—Bella, has returned home for the month of December and finds herself reconnecting with her high school boyfriend.
  4. Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard.  I’ll let readers figure out how this fits into the story…
  5. I Think We’re Alone Now – Tiffany.  Let’s just say that when Jane and Nate find themselves alone … things get interesting.
  6. Arcade – Duncan Laurence.  “Black Moment” song of the book. Jane is dealing with a lot of emotions in this story.  She’s falling in love with someone who’s going to leave town and she’s being forced to re-evaluate the ending of the most important friendship of her life.  The lyrics of this song “All I know, loving you is a losing game”  are very relevant to her fear of loving either the new man in her life or her one time best friend.
  7. I Think I Like You – The Band CAMINO.  This song was on the radio a lot when I was drafting GRINCH GIRL and I completely went nuts for it.  This song *feels* like falling in love!

 

About the Author

There are only three things Michelle Dayton loves more than sexy and suspenseful novels: her family, the city of Chicago, and Mr. Darcy. Michelle dreams of a year of world travel — as long as the trip would include weeks and weeks of beach time. As a bourbon lover and unabashed wine snob, Michelle thinks heaven is discussing a good book over an adult beverage.

Tule Publishing November/December 2022 Releases

November 1, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Read more about our new releases for November and December!

GIVEAWAY: We will pick ONE winner to receive a digital book of their choice from the November/December releases. Comment down below saying which book you’re looking most forward to reading! Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY. The winner will be randomly selected at the end of the month.

 

A Bayou Christmas by Susan Sands (Southern Born)

Release Date: November 1, 2022

Louisiana, Book 3

It’s her first Christmas with her birth family…

Thanks to a bone marrow donation from her newly discovered sister, interior designer Allison Miers has just beat cancer and has been welcomed into her new family, the Bertrands of Cypress Bayou. She’s been curious about her birth family for years, and it seems they’re all trying to make amends for her mother abandoning her—even offering a trust fund if she’ll stay a year and give the town a chance.

As Allison arrives in town amidst preparations for the Cypress Bayou Christmas Festival, she’s quickly overwhelmed by the drama and competition between both sides of her birth families. Local mechanic Nick Landry is the most normal person she’s met so far, and it doesn’t hurt that he’s also handsome and friendly. Just as Allison starts to wonder if she’s finally found a new home, family, and a man to love, she discovers that Nick—just like both sides of her family—has been keeping his own secrets.

Family is all Allison has ever wanted, but should she listen to her head or her heart this unforgettable Christmas?

A Santa Stabbing by Geri Krotow (Tule Mystery)

Release Date: November 2, 2022

Shop ‘Round the World, Book 1

She didn’t realize she’d traded “Naval Aviator” for “amateur sleuth”…

Retired Navy pilot Angel Warren’s new life awaits in Stonebridge, Pennsylvania, where she’s opening Shop ‘Round the World, her travel-inspired gift and novelty shop. A newly empty nester and longtime widow, she’s looking forward to leaving her flying career and its many life-or-death decisions behind and reconnecting with family and friends. Right now, Angel’s biggest challenge is getting the shop ready for its grand opening just weeks before Christmas.

Until she finds a dead body in the shop murdered with one of her specialty Santa figurines. Even worse, Angel’s fingerprints are on the “weapon” and she’s a prime suspect. It doesn’t help that the deceased is an old friend who’s collected a long list of enemies as a cut-throat real estate agent. And then there’s the Stonebridge Chief of Police—and Angel’s high school BFF—who brings her in for questioning.

If Angel wants to clear her name before the Christmas rush, she’s going to need to do some sleuthing on her own—and with the help of her stressed out parrot, Ralph.

Above the Mistletoe by Michele Arris (American Heart)

Release Date: November 3, 2022

Haven Creek, Book 1

Sometimes, it takes more than mistletoe to find true love.

Reyna Star, owner of North Star Private Car, is drawn to Hawk Swan’s rugged good looks when she picks him up for his holiday party weekend, but she knows his type, and she’s not interested. However, she does pocket more than a generous tip from her passenger—when one of Hawk’s companions mentions the Berkshires as the perfect place to go skiing, Reyna decides to spend Christmas there with her teenage daughter, Lily, and rebuild their bond.

Custom woodcrafter, Julian “Hawk” Swan is tired of the single life and wants to settle down. When Reyna arrives in Haven Creek, he seizes the chance to fix her first impression of him. Attraction burns bright between them, but there are those not warming up to their relationship—Lily is acting out, Hawk’s cousin worries about potential hardships in their romance, and even Reyna’s ex is too close for comfort. Plus there’s Reyna’s business, firmly entrenched in Miami.

This Christmas, can Reyna and Hawk rise above these holiday hurdles and build a lasting future?

Grinch Girl by Michelle Dayton (American Heart)

Release Date: November 7, 2022

Tech-nically Love, Book 4

Sometimes, the real story isn’t the beautiful city girl returning to her small town to save Christmas—it’s the townie chick who never left.

Jane Zielinski has her hands full this December, working three jobs and directing a homemade reality dating web series, Single Bells, as a stunt to keep her small town competitive with the ritzy resort towns luring tourists. Then the gorgeous Bella Bradley, Jane’s childhood BFF who had no qualms about skipping town when times got tough, returns with handfuls of cash and her smoking-hot business partner Nate Wright on her arm.

Jane can’t believe she’s being upstaged again, especially when Bella uses the Single Bells activities to rekindle a romance with her high school boyfriend—the man Jane had envisioned her future with. So if a little competition could convince Bella to leave town—again—Jane is ready to take the mittens off. And she’s not above sabotage, cheating, or flirting with Nate to win.

These childhood friends turned rivals may have more in common than they thought. Let the reindeer games begin…

The Billionaire Cowboy’s Christmas by Kris Bock (Texas Born)

Release Date: November 8, 2022

The Accidental Billionaire Cowboys, Book 1

He has everything this Christmas, but all he wants is the quiet ranch life he’s losing…

When Josh Tomlinson’s Texas ranching family wins a fortune in the lottery, the formerly tight-knit family is suddenly on edge. Seeking advice, Josh reluctantly contacts family friend and now attorney, Carly Garza. His business is serious, yet he can’t believe Carly’s morphed from a long-legged colt of a girl to a sophisticated woman. Besides, he knows the intelligent Carly has no interest in a quiet, rugged cowboy like him.

Carly’s crushed on Josh for years, and she plans to ask him out now that she’s back in Last Stand. She’s hoping he’ll finally see her as someone other than his younger brother’s middle school girlfriend. But when Josh needs advice on how to handle his family’s lottery win, his client and billionaire statuses put him firmly out of reach. If only her heart could ignore the sparks that flare between them.

They’re already keeping the family’s lottery win a secret from the town. Can they also hide their budding romance during the most magical time of year?

Christmas with the Cowboy by Jeannie Watt (Montana Born)

Release Date: November 9, 2022

Return to Keller Ranch, Book 1

This Christmas, it’s time to rebuild bridges…

Hard-living cowboy Reed Keller is returning home to the same ranch his father kicked him off of fifteen years ago. He knows he’s in for some battles with his headstrong dad, but his dad needs help and Reed needs a place to raise his daughter, Lex. Reed’s determined to put the past behind him and concentrate on being the best father he can be, especially with Christmas around the corner. Also around the corner? The woman he’s never been able to forget.

Trenna Hunt has finally broken free of her controlling father to pursue her own goals, but she never would have accepted the temporary job at the Keller Ranch helping to compile the family’s history if she knew the sexy, reckless cowboy Reed would come home. They’ve both changed, but Reed’s still as impossible to resist as when they were teenagers.

Reed knows he needs to keep his focus on his daughter and building their future, but he can’t help longing to keep Trenna in it. Will she trust him enough this time to stay?

Texas Christmas Magic by Katherine Garbera (Texas Born)

Release Date: November 10, 2022

The Rossis of Whiskey River, Book 3

Sometimes a fresh start requires a Christmas miracle…

Angelica Rossi moved to Whiskey River, Texas, for a true second chance. As Christmas approaches, she’s ready to rebuild her reputation and help her community by launching a nonprofit aimed at providing resources to the town’s underserved residents. To pull off this miracle, she’ll need to grab the attention of billionaire Max Parrish who’s offering business grants. How? By crashing his holiday party.

Max Parrish is a successful entrepreneur who prides himself on seeing through people’s characters and ulterior motives. When Angelica approaches him during his business Christmas party, he knows she’s not on his carefully curated guest list. Still, he lets her make her pitch. Her beauty and confidence intrigue him, and her proposal is nearly as tempting as she is. Max knows firsthand how important second chances are, so he agrees to fund Angelica’s grant with strings…him.

Max and Angelica find themselves collaborating over her business plan during the town’s festive holiday traditions. But Max has been fooled before. Will Angelica’s good intentions last beyond the holiday?

Texas Christmas Baby Bargain by Eve Gaddy (Texas Born)

Release Date: November 14, 2022

Texas True, Book 6

This Christmas, a baby is on her wish list…

Art gallery owner Micki Kennedy loves her new home in Whiskey River, but she yearns for a baby. Seeing the Christmas lights and happy families only makes her more determined to have a child of her own, but her divorce has made her wary of relationships. She wants a baby, not a baby daddy. Footloose Cole Walker seems like the perfect person to ask for help.

Cole Walker thought he had plenty of time to settle down, but a near-death experience has him questioning his single status. He heads back to Whiskey River for Christmas determined to find a woman he can spend his life with. But the first person he sees when he arrives in town is the woman who dumped him years ago to marry her ex-boyfriend.

Cole can’t believe Micki would ask him to father her child and walk away. But can he risk heartbreak again to court her and try to father her child the old-fashioned way—and build a family of their own?

A Cowboy for Merry by Jamie K. Schmidt (Texas Born)

Release Date: November 15, 2022

Three Sisters Ranch, Book 6

Ten years turned her into a champion and him into a cowboy looking for a fresh start.

Roped in by her sisters, Merry Grayson is home in Last Stand, Texas, for Christmas and a charity event at the Three Sisters Ranch. She’s shocked to run into her bad boy ex-boyfriend. She thought he was still in prison, and if he’d ratted her out all those years ago, she would’ve done time too. Instead, Merry had seized her second chance and made a career in rodeo—trying to forget her rebel past and the boy who stole her heart.

Simon Reynolds is determined to move on. He never regretted protecting Merry when his Robin Hood heist failed. After his father had hung him out to dry, the thought of her warmth and beauty kept him going. Simon knows he needs to let go of his past, but the sparks and chemistry are as volatile as ever and he feels himself being pulled back in.

Christmas is a time for miracles. Is asking Santa for a second chance at love too much?

The Christmas Clues by Scarlet Wilson (American Heart)

Release Date: November 16, 2022

What is Christmas without some healthy competition?

When successful Chicago sports journalist Dawson McLeod and botanist Piper Davis receive a mysterious summons to an attorney’s office, they learn they are the potential benefactors to a famous and reclusive author’s historic estate—including her mansion, famous gardens, greenhouses, and more. Neither of them has had any contact with the author of their favorite Christmas book since they were both scheduled to interview her as children. But only Piper, who arrived early, succeeded, much to Dawson’s envy.

Both Piper and Dawson have ideas for how they plan to benefit the community with their potential winnings, but the legacy has strings. The author has left them a series of clues to be solved around the city starting twenty days before Christmas. Once childhood rivals and now strangers, Dawson and Piper must work together to uncover the clues by Christmas if they want either of their dreams to come true.

Will working together during the most magical time of year open their hearts, or will their lingering feud get in the way?

A Cowboy’s Gift by Anne McAllister (Montana Born)

Release Date: November 17, 2022

The Cowboy’s Code, Book 4

He’s ready to settle down this Christmas…

Montana rodeo bronc rider Gus Holt has made a career out of eight-second commitments. He’s intuitive, instinctive, and impulsive. And then he moves on. He’s never done forever, and a dozen years ago, he even backed out of his own wedding! But Gus isn’t nineteen anymore, and when Mary McLean, the bride he left behind, turns up pregnant, on her own, and as lovely as ever, Gus knows he wants a second chance. He won’t squander it this time.

Trust Gus Holt? Not likely. Mary’s been there, done that—and has the failed wedding to prove it. Now she’s the surrogate mother to her sister’s child—as close as she’ll get to a family of her own. This time Mary’s determined to resist Gus’s advances.

But Gus isn’t giving up. He believes they have a future, that they can have forever. After all, Christmas is a time of hope and new beginnings. But can he convince Mary to give their love another shot?

Christmas Cakes and Kisses by Lara Van Hulzen (American Heart)

Release Date: November 29, 2022

The Endicotts of Silver Bay, Book 2

Eva Endicott comes to Silver Bay to prove to her family that she can make it on her own. Working in the local bakery, she’s determined to save enough to open her own cake decorating business. Winning an upcoming Christmas cake competition is the key to her dream, so Eva has no time for distractions, especially not devastatingly handsome ones that make her heart skip a beat.

Tyler Vance is the personal trainer for professional baseball pitcher, Drew MacIntyre. After following a retired Drew to Silver Bay, Tyler’s own future is uncertain. Things become more unsettled when a beautiful baker enters his world. Eva fascinates Tyler and as he gets to know her better, he considers planting his roots in Silver Bay. But when the location Tyler chooses for his training facility is the same one Eva wants for her bakery, something has to give.

With the contest deadline looming, Eva can barely think about Tyler. Until a blinding moment finally reveals her true feelings.

Is it too late? Or will a Christmas miracle give them both more than they ever dreamed?

Home for Hanukkah by Rebecca Crowley (American Heart)

Release Date: December 1, 2022

Orchard Hill, Book 4

He’s looking for one last miracle…

Zach Strauss may be down, but he’s not out. His Bay Area biotech start-up has crashed, leaving him broke, but it’s only temporary until he can raise more money—or so he tells himself. Failure isn’t an option, and Zach’s always been able to sell anyone on anything. But back in his hometown, he finds himself in the unfamiliar position of needing a job.

After a childhood of instability, Noa Jacob purchased Second Chance, a thrift store-turned-boutique in Orchard Hill, and is determined to put down the roots she never had. Running her own business is more challenging than she’d imagined, and she’s in danger of losing it all—until a handsome stranger bursting with ideas walks in looking for work.

Noa only has ten days to turn Second Chance around, but Zach is confident that’s plenty. Together they create a successful Hanukkah Miracle Market that draws in families looking for something other than the Christmas cheer. But as the balance sheet ticks up, Noa wonders if instead of losing her business, she risks losing her heart.

ESCAPE GIRL: Release day blog post featuring Michelle Dayton!

June 28, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

A favorite part of my writing ritual over the past few years has been to create a playlist of songs that correspond to the book I’m writing.  During the drafting stage, I’ll put on my headphones and listen to the playlist while I’m doing dishes, folding laundry, and walking the dog.  It keeps me in the headspace of my main character and invigorates me to keep writing.

Want to see my list of songs for my new release, ESCAPE GIRL?  It’s definitely an eclectic mix, but I bet there’s at least one song here that will make you sing out loud!

ESCAPE GIRL Playlist

  1. Million Reasons – Lady Gaga.  This is a “second chance” love story and this song hits the right emotional notes for me of where Emily and Bobby are at the start of the book.
  2. Piece of My Heart – Janis Joplin.  At the heart of Emily’s emotional journey in this book is her relationship with her late mother.  This song was her mother’s favorite and Emily thinks of it often.  Part of this book takes place in San Francisco, so I loved including two Janis songs on this list.
  3. Sex and Candy – Marcy Playground.  Bobby is one of my favorite heroes I’ve ever written. He’s a sexy, sweet cinnamon roll, and this song just makes me think of him.
  4. Here You Come Again – Dolly Parton.  Emily *thinks* that she shouldn’t be with Bobby.  But she’s never been able to resist him.  
  5. Me and My Bobby McGee – Janis Joplin.  This song features heavily in my favorite scene of the novel.
  6. I Feel It Coming – The Weeknd, Daft Punk.  Sexy times, people.
  7. GHOST TOWN – Benson Boone. This is my “black moment” song.  You can’t listen to this song without tearing up – you can’t!
  8. Good as Hell – Lizzo.  Bobby sings this song in the shower, lol.  But it’s also how I want readers to feel at the end of this book!

 

About the Author

There are only three things Michelle Dayton loves more than sexy and suspenseful novels: her family, the city of Chicago, and Mr. Darcy. Michelle dreams of a year of world travel — as long as the trip would include weeks and weeks of beach time. As a bourbon lover and unabashed wine snob, Michelle thinks heaven is discussing a good book over an adult beverage.

Tule Publishing June 2022 Releases

June 1, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Read more about our new releases for June!

GIVEAWAY: We will pick ONE winner to receive a digital book of their choice from the June releases. Comment down below saying which book you’re looking most forward to reading! Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY. The winner will be randomly selected at the end of the month.

 

Love at First Spark by Sarah Fischer and Kelsey McKnight (American Heart)

Release Date: June 2, 2022

Hazel Oaks Resort, Book 2

Love is a numbers game…

Kay Hangler has a mind for numbers and a passion for the matchmaking app she helped to create. This Fourth of July weekend, her company is hosting a singles event at the historic Hazel Oaks Resort. Fun, sun, and romance are on the schedule for dozens of potential couples while Kay stubbornly flies solo…again. While she trusts her algorithm, she hasn’t personally tried it—until the resort’s handsome and friendly sailing instructor dares her to put it to the test.

Finn Stark was born on the water and comes from a long line of sailors. While he enjoys his summer gig teaching sailing at the resort and restoring boats, he’s longing to meet someone special. When a pretty brunette wanders into his boathouse and promises she can find his perfect match using numbers, Finn’s skeptical.

Finn doesn’t believe true love can be calculated, but Kay’s built her entire career on this belief. Will their numbers add up to a future before the Fourth of July fireworks, or is their romance destined to fizzle out?

Grim and Bear It by Heather Novak (Muse)

Release Date: June 6, 2022

Love Me Dead, Book 2

Poppy’s skull over heels in love, and not even death can stop her…

Poppy Grim dreams of starring in a real-life rom-com. Instead, she’s an overworked, lonely grim reaper with chronic motion sickness from ferrying souls to the afterlife. She adheres to all the reaper handbook rules except one—she regularly visits the love she lost twelve years ago when she passed. She’s not worried—humans can only see her when they are about to die, after all—until Jake looks up and says her name.

Supernatural Investigator Jake Robinson wants to leave active duty because of past on-the-job injuries, but he’s determined to finish solving the most important case of his career first. His plans sink like the Titanic—his ghost roommate’s favorite movie—when he sees Poppy.

With death looming, they both risk everything—including their hearts—and work together to keep Jake alive while he stops the people threatening his family. But love is a losing game when the punishment for a reaper-human relationship is permanent removal from existence.

Falling for the Doctor by Nan Reinhardt (American Heart)

Release Date: June 7, 2022

The Lange Brothers, Book 2

They were in it for the fun, but never expected the storm…

Life for hometown ER physician Dr. Max Lange has always been sweet. He loves his job and is dialed in socially with his family, friends, and community. But lately, something feels like it’s missing. When a visiting doctor pulls him in for a hot kiss and asks him to play along in order to avoid unwanted attention from a hospital administrator, Max knows exactly what he wants and needs—the lovely Dr. Mitchell.

After a tragic error shakes her confidence beyond repair, Dr. Lauren Mitchell has abandoned her career in cardiothoracic surgery and instead works as a lead medical consultant for a top cardiovascular technology company. She enjoys her simple life on the road—hotel rooms, room service, and no emotional entanglements.

When a violent storm throws her into service at St. Mark’s hospital, Max has only a few days to prove to Lauren that they belong together, while she must reevaluate her career…and her life. Will Max’s love be enough to make River’s Edge and Max her home?

The Baby Whisperer by Fiona McArthur (Holiday)

Release Date: June 9, 2022

Outback Babies, Book 3

The last man she needs is another hero…

After losing her father, brother, and now her husband to their work in the fire service, midwife and mothercraft nurse Stephanie Lee leaves Perth for Wirralong to move near a midwife friend from university. She buys her first house along with the Wirralong Creche, where she’ll be able to immerse herself in looking after new mothers. Stevie’s not looking for romance, but when she meets her home builder, who’s everything she doesn’t want, she can’t resist.

When he’s not remodeling homes with his young crew of at-risk young adults, Eli Grayson is a volunteer for the rural fire service and international disaster relief. Eli’s never tried to resist the lure of a beautiful woman until he meets Stephanie. It’s love at first sight and captivated Eli is determined to win her trust and heart, no matter how long it takes.

She’s afraid to love and lose, but he’s convinced they can both win. Stevie has to answer the question, is Eli—the most compelling man she’s ever met—worth the risk?

To Win a Highlander’s Heart by Gerri Russell (Muse)

Release Date: June 14, 2022

Guardians of the Isles, Book 3

It’s impossible to defy destiny…

Orrick MacLeod is a famed Highland warrior from a powerful clan who can no longer fight. Painful memories from battles plague him when he raises his sword, and he fears that one day he’ll hesitate and he, or one of his brothers, will perish. Leaving his castle to thwart his battle hero destiny, he stumbles across a young woman. Rumors whisper she’s born of fairies, but Orrick only sees a beautiful woman in jeopardy.

Isolde Nicolson is a devoted daughter of her clan, but when she rejected her chieftain brother’s choice of a cruel husband by striking her brother with an arrow, she’s banished. The kindly Orrick shelters her in the safety of the MacLeod castle where they soon unlock hidden desires. Orrick wishes to ask for her hand in marriage, but when he tries to do what’s right, everything goes wrong.

As an incident threatens to tear the MacLeod family apart, a pivotal and bloody battle between English and Scottish forces ensues. Soon the warrior who can no longer fight must stand to protect everything he holds dear.

Lola and the Single Dad by Kelly Hunter (Holiday)

Release Date: June 16, 2022

Outback Babies, Book 4

When love comes to town…

Artisan blacksmith Ned Harrow lost his wife and gained a son, all in the space of a day. Since then, he’s been caring for his son, Ollie, and working to rebuild his business. When his neighbour’s visiting goddaughter offers to help, she’s a lifeline and so much more. Ned knows the beautiful and fun-loving Lola isn’t staying long, but she’s impossible to resist and his heart is cracking wide open.

Actress Lola Darcy has never hit the big time and she’s beginning to wonder if she ever will. She’s in-between auditions when she visits her godmother in Wirralong. The country life and adorable baby she can sing to is a balm to her heart that’s been wounded by so many rejections. Lola loves caring for the sweet babe next door, and his eye candy father makes the visit even better.

As Lola and Ned become friends and perhaps more, the part of a lifetime beckons. Should she follow her dream or create new ones in Wirralong?

Something Deadly on Desert Drive by Kris Bock (Tule Mystery)

Release Date: June 21, 2022

The Accidental Detective, Book 2

Starting over at fifty might be hard, but it shouldn’t be deadly…

Still recovering from an injury that might have permanently derailed her career as an international war correspondent, Kate Tessler is living in her childhood bedroom and pondering her second act when another case lands in her lap. Kate’s father and his coffee group are worried. Their friend Larry married a younger woman who now insists he has dementia and won’t let any of his friends visit. They’re convinced that Larry’s wife and her two adult, dead-beat kids are out to steal his money. Can Kate help?

Soon Kate and her unusual gang of sidekicks are unofficially, officially investigating. But before they can dig out the truth, a murder raises the stakes. Now they need to prove Larry is both mentally competent and not a killer. They’ll have to find the real murderer—without risking their own lives in the process.

Her Fake Boyfriend by Shelli Stevens (American Heart)

Release Date: June 23, 2022

Bro Code, Book 2

Thou shalt not sleep with thy friend’s ex…

Eric Nordland has been in love with his best friend’s girl since he met her. And now that she’s single, the temptation to make a move is killing him. Especially since their paths keep crossing. Dating your friend’s ex is a big bro code violation, but when Hannah comes to him in trouble, there’s no way he’ll leave her to fend for herself.

Coming out of the only romantic relationship she’s ever known, Hannah Jeong isn’t really looking for a rebound. But when the creepy parent of one of her students starts to stalk her, she jumps at Eric’s offer to pose as her fake boyfriend. What she didn’t expect was to start having feelings for a man she’d always seen as just a friend.

The line between right and wrong becomes fuzzier by the day as the attraction between them grows. Keeping Hannah safe from an obsessive man is just as much Eric’s mission as not giving his heart to a woman he can never have.

Escape Girl by Michelle Dayton (American Heart)

Release Date: June 28, 2022

Tech-nically Love, Book 3

You can’t divorce yourself from love…

Emily Saturn’s world is spinning out of control. An intellectual property lawyer, she’s gone rogue from her firm, dealing with a major lawsuit against a predatory software company’s CEO pro bono. When she isn’t looking for elusive evidence she can use—legally, of course—she’s trying to avoid her soon-to-be ex-husband, Bobby March.

After their whirlwind courtship and wedding, Bobby can’t pinpoint what went wrong between them. He’s been working for months on his new career and personal growth, determined to be the man his wife deserves. Desperate to get her attention, Bobby invites Emily to a series of individually designed virtual escape rooms, each one a moment from their love story. Hopefully, the sexy, romantic trip down memory lane will rekindle their intense connection—and clue him in as to how to fix this.

Emily has never been able to resist a puzzle. Or, frankly, Bobby. The more she interacts with her husband online, the more she wants to see him again in person. Which is beyond stupid because Emily knows he’s wrong for her. Right?

The Montana Rancher by Paula Altenburg (Montana Born)

Release Date: June 30, 2022

The Endeavour Ranch of Grand, Montana, Book 3

He’s been keeping secrets. She needs the truth…

Reclusive billionaire and enigmatic ranch owner Ryan O’Connell spares no expense when it comes to the Endeavour Ranch and its charitable organizations. Next up on his philanthropic agenda is a youth group home for troubled teenage boys. When he hires a social worker to work with the counselors and teen clients, he thinks he can take a step back. But her beauty and determination are tough to ignore and even tougher to resist.

Heiress Elizabeth Benson became a social worker after her older sister was murdered, destroying her once-close family. She’s fiercely protective of the boys on the Endeavour Ranch and is determined to learn more about her mysterious boss who is so much more than the quiet cowboy he pretends to be. Too bad their chemistry complicates everything.

Can Ryan trust Elizabeth with his darkest secrets? Or does he risk losing even more than his heart?

SCAMMER GIRL: Release day blog post featuring Michelle Dayton!

January 18, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

A few years ago, I noticed something fun on my Twitter feed. All of the writers that I most loved to follow were posting Spotify Playlists for their books. What an incredible idea! (And for me – what an incredibly fun way to procrastinate the actual writing part!)

I’ve created playlists for my last three projects, but the list of songs I put together for SCAMMER GIRL has been the one I’ve listened to most. So I thought I’d share it in case you want to listen – and I’ve included notes on why I chose each song!

SCAMMER GIRL Playlist

  1. Dancing with Myself – Billy Idol.  I chose this song because it reminds me of Jo at the beginning of the book. She’s a brilliant woman, confident in her brain and skills. She runs a lucrative business and she’s a big sister-figure to her team.  She’s also lonely – not that she would ever admit it.
  2. Because the Night – 10,000 Maniacs
  3. Under Pressure – Queen and David Bowie
  4. Wild World – Cat Stevens.  Jo and Jamie get to know one another quite a bit via letters. Because they know they shouldn’t trust one another, they can’t talk about anything too personal at first. In their first letter, they talk about music – important songs in their lives. These three songs figure prominently.
  5. She Used to Be Mine – Sara Bareilles.  The song lyrics of this one make me think so much of Jo. She plays a role so much of the time that she sometimes gets lost. She’s sometimes nostalgic for her true self – which is one reason that she falls so hard for Jamie. He sees the real Jo right away. 
  6. Hope Is A Heartache – LEON.   So much pining in this one.  What romance reader doesn’t love pining?!
  7. cowboy like me – Taylor Swift.  It’s a love song about con artists!  Perfect!
  8. Rainbow – Kacey Musgraves.  Part of Jo’s melancholy stems from her lonely childhood. Her emotional arc in the book is for her to overcome this life hangover and grow into the adult woman she’s meant to be.
  9. Jolene – Dolly Parton.   Hmmm … you’re going to have to read the book to learn why I included this one!  😊

 

About the Author

There are only three things Michelle Dayton loves more than sexy and suspenseful novels: her family, the city of Chicago, and Mr. Darcy. Michelle dreams of a year of world travel — as long as the trip would include weeks and weeks of beach time. As a bourbon lover and unabashed wine snob, Michelle thinks heaven is discussing a good book over an adult beverage.

Tule Publishing January 2022 Releases

January 3, 2022 · Posted by Tule Publishing

Happy New Year! Read more about our new releases for January.

GIVEAWAY: We will pick ONE winner to receive a digital book of their choice from the January releases. Comment down below saying which book you’re looking most forward to reading! Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY. The winner will be randomly selected at the end of the month.

 

Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton (Holiday)

Release Date: January 11, 2022

Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 3

Can she find the courage to love again?

With running the busy small-town hospital at Waratah River and setting up a foundation to help others achieve their dreams like he has, Dr. Scott Carruthers has his plate full. So when a beautiful specialist obstetrician is employed to ease his workload, his inconvenient attraction toward her is a complication he doesn’t need.

Dr. Franceen Lewis arrived at Waratah River Hospital to start her life over. After a tragic loss and the resulting breakdown of her unsuitable marriage, she’s ready to focus on her career and help those who need her. Working with Scott challenges her not only professionally, but personally. Getting involved with another man is not on her to-do list, but Scott shows her again and again that not all men are as shallow and unreliable as her ex.

The longer they work together, the harder they fall…but can Franceen really put the past behind her and reach for the happiness she deserves?

Breaking the Cowboy’s Rules by Sinclair Jayne (Montana Born)

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Montana Rodeo Brides, Book 3

It’s time to take advantage of his player reputation…

Pro rodeo bronc and bull rider Bodhi Ballantyne is always upping the stakes. This year he’s been hiding a secret, and when he and his cousins come home to Marietta, Montana, for the Copper Mountain Rodeo and learn their granddad is contemplating selling his legacy ranch, Bodhi challenges his cousins to a game to save their futures. To stay in the game, they’ll each need a bride by the end of the rodeo.

Nico Steel is on the run from her family, her fortune, and her unwitting role in the corporate scandal of a generation. After cooperating with the FBI and the New York state attorney’s office to right the wrongs, she drives across the country, desperate for peace and reinvention. One impulsive stop at a saloon along with a dance with a sexier-than-sin cowboy and suddenly Nico’s learning to shoot whiskey and agreeing to be a stranger’s fake fiancée for the week.

They’re both players, so it’s a win-win—unless one of them loses their heart.

Scammer Girl by Michelle Dayton (American Heart)

Release Date: January 18, 2022

Tech-nically Love, Book 2

Technology complicates everything, including love.

Five years ago, Jo Harper did a bad thing. Dumped, injured, and in crippling debt, Jo did what any desperate woman with a PhD in psychology and above-average computer skills would: become an elite, undetectable online romance scammer. Now Jo and her team of four young women bring in enough cash to keep them securely afloat. Their targets? Married cheaters.

Jamie March, Bay Area royalty known as “The Conscience of Silicon Valley,” hates every aspect of online crime, especially those who defraud people. And when it appears that his brother is the victim of a sophisticated romance scam, he can’t stand idly by.

What’s weird though, is that when Jo and Jamie meet…they don’t hate one another. Not at all. He makes her laugh and feel alive again. She challenges his intellect like no other. But they can’t trust one another, right? And you can’t fall in love with someone you don’t trust—or can you?

Can’t Go Home by Melinda Di Lorenzo (Tule Mystery)

Release Date: January 20, 2022

Trinity Calhoun Mystery, Book 1

“Do you remember Savannah?”

How could she forget? Two decades ago, Trinity Calhoun‘s best friend—18-year-old Savannah Stuart—went missing. Just weeks later, Savannah’s body was found brutally slain outside the mountain town. With no suspects or leads, the local authorities dismissed the murder as a tragic one-off, likely perpetrated by a tourist. But Trinity wasn’t convinced.

Determined to do better for other victims, she left town and settled in Vancouver, rising through the ranks to become a detective. She’s never looked back. But now, an unexpected phone call from her former lover has her barreling down the highway to face the past.

Another young woman has disappeared under eerily similar circumstances. Allegedly. But the local police are disinterested. Trinity’s ex has a tenuous—at best—hold on his mental and physical health. And Savannah’s secretive and handsome brother is in town, asking an awful lot of questions.

Trinity’s focus is clouded. Maybe her judgment, too. As she wades through her past, she needs to answer a potentially life-threatening question: is there a dangerous, repeat criminal on the loose, or is she just desperate for closure?

Cowgirl in Love by Jamie Dallas (Montana Born)

Release Date: January 24, 2022

The Hartman Brothers, Book 3

She has a lot to prove and won’t get distracted by a cowboy again…

Barrel racer Ella James Sanders has one goal for her breakout year in Pro Rodeo—to make it to the National Finals Rodeo and prove to her hometown that she’s more than a girl raised on the wrong side of town. But her dream quickly crashes when an accident injures her and her horse, ending her rodeo season and leaving her in the care of the man who carelessly broke her heart years ago.

Cowboy and veterinarian Ty Hartman knows what it’s like to be rejected by those close to him. Ty’s loved Ella since high school, but she’s rejected him twice so he’s resolved to keep his distance and protect his heart…until an accident forces Ella and her horse into his life and he can’t step aside. As he cares for the feisty cowgirl, he feels himself falling for her again.

Can he convince this cowgirl that not only is he a man she can trust, but that he’s also a man she could love?

Once a Cowboy by Justine Davis (Texas Born)

Release Date: January 25, 2022

The Raffertys of Last Stand, Book 3

He’s a cowboy through and through…

Rylan Rafferty was a cowboy long before interest in his leatherworking artistry and saddle making for the rich and famous catapulted him to national fame. He values his privacy, so when a popular Texas magazine wants to feature him, his first inclination is to run. His military father who died in combat when Rylan was a teen was the artist, not him. But then he meets the photographer, and Rylan suddenly no longer wants to bury himself in his work.

Kaitlyn Miller values three things above all else—the memory of her father, her photography, and the mentor who first handed her a camera. Her beautiful but flawed mother may have chipped away at her self-esteem as a child, but Kaitlyn has confidence in her work. So she’s thrilled to be back home in Texas for her first big break—a photo shoot of a local Last Stand artist.

When plain Kaitlyn collides with gorgeous Rylan, unexpected sparks fly. But can he convince her that her generous heart and artist’s eye make her more than beautiful to him?

Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin (Tule Mystery)

Release Date: January 27, 2022

Benoit and Dayne Mystery, Book 2

Sometimes, the past starts to bleed into the future…

Dark memories haunt Eckardt County Deputy Lila Dayne. Two years ago, she survived a serial killer’s attempt to add her to his growing list of victims in Chicagoland, but the fight cost her more than just time lost to surgeries and rehab. Now she’s finally beginning to connect with the people in this small section of southeast Iowa, even if she can still sense him watching her.

Sheriff Elizabeth Benoit has her sights on bringing down Eckardt County’s corruption when two bodies surface, both bearing striking similarities to the serial killer victims discovered along I-80—and one delivers a personal message for her department. Lila spirals out of control under the pressure, pushing everyone out of her life.

As Elizabeth and her deputies try to bring Lila back into the fold, the killer closes in, marking his next victim. Lila must shake free of her fears and trust those who have supported her—or the killer will finish what he started.

DISASTER GIRL: Release day blog post featuring Michelle Dayton

May 20, 2021 · Posted by Tule Publishing

I’m so thrilled to be here chatting about my new release, DISASTER GIRL!  

I had such a hard time deciding on which aspect of the story to touch on here, but I ended up deciding on Tess’s job, my main character’s career.

I know, I know … so boring, right?  Wouldn’t it be more fun to focus on the steamy love scenes? Or more interesting to dive into Tess’s complicated relationship with her mother? Or what about the blight of modern technology (revenge porn) which drives the plot?

But Tess’s ambition and commitment to her job are a core facet of her personality; I hoped they would make her character real and relatable.  I was so excited that the Publishers Weekly reviewer agreed:  “Tess’s career goals … are just as important to the story as the romance, making for a fully developed heroine who’s easy to root for.”

I’ve *always* been fascinated by the jobs people do.  Maybe it’s because people spend so much of their lives at work; you simply can’t help but be molded by the places and people and tasks that encompass so many hours of your daily life.

I got my first job when I was fifteen and I haven’t stopped working since.  My very first job was selling concessions at a movie theater in my hometown of Green Bay, Wisconsin.  You might think that coming home every night with butter-scented hair might put me off popcorn forever, but you’d be dead wrong.  I still think movie theater popcorn is the most delicious thing in the world.

In college, I worked as a hostess at a country-western steakhouse in South Bend, Indiana – the kind where people are encouraged to throw peanut shells on the floor and stand on tables to sing twangy ballads.  Sometimes I’m still tempted to answer the phone saying:  “Thank you for calling the Lone Star Steakhouse and Saloon, home of the cajun ribeye.  This is Michelle, how can I help you?”

I’ve worked at a paper mill, a roofing company, tended bar, made lattes, sliced deli meat, and tutored students writing term papers.  Every single one of these jobs contributed something to my life in addition to the paycheck.  The people I met, the things I screwed up … like most people,  I’ve been indelibly shaped by these experiences.

After college, like Tess, I started my career in IT and that’s been my work “home” for a long time.  Tess’s IT specialty is disaster recovery – she helps businesses recover from catastrophic occurrences.  This is a perfect career for Tess because life has taught her that one can survive disasters.  To me, Tess’s career was the perfect embodiment of who she is as a person.  In life and in work, she’s all about survival.  I hope readers enjoy this parallel. I hope they cheer Tess on!

I’d absolutely love to hear about your best (or worst!) jobs and how they’ve shaped you – tell me everything in the comments!  

 

There are only three things Michelle Dayton loves more than sexy and suspenseful novels: her family, the city of Chicago, and Mr. Darcy. Michelle dreams of a year of world travel — as long as the trip would include weeks and weeks of beach time. As a bourbon lover and unabashed wine snob, Michelle thinks heaven is discussing a good book over an adult beverage.