The HBS Author's Spotlight SHOWCASES Tamara Ferguson's Book: That Unforgettable Kiss.
Author Tamara Ferguson is the award-winning author of Tales of The Dragonfly Romance Suspense Series, the top-ten bestselling Kissed By Fate Series, and the #1 Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Series. Tamara writes Romance and Suspense novels.
That Unforgettable Kiss
Kissed By Fate Book 1
Author: Tamara Ferguson
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Kate Callahan has always known that, someday, she'd run the family business. So men have always been merely a distraction for Kate; she just doesn't have time for love.
Until fate steps in by way of a prophecy foretold, years ago, by a friend who'd been blessed with a remarkable gift. Kate has been warned that, one day, she'll be kissed by fate. And love will happen with that unforgettable kiss.
Michael Murphy already has his life mapped out. After graduating with his degree in Architecture, he'll be working at a prestigious firm in Chicago. When he arrives in the town of Crystal Rock to serve as an intern at Callahan Construction, the last thing he expects is his instant attraction to lovely crew boss, Kate Callahan.
Kate's immediately drawn to Murphy, too. And sparks fly when they unite in an attempt to discover the identity of the thief who's been stealing construction materials from her family's company.
But how could a long-term relationship between them ever survive? They're both young, with different dreams and goals. So even after their unforgettable kiss, Kate lets Murphy go.
Six years later, Kate's finally admitted her mistake; she's just never been able to forget that kiss. Devastated when she learns that Michael Murphy's become engaged, Kate comes up with a plan to try to win him back. But will she be too late?
Excerpt from That Unforgettable Kiss
Book 1 of the Kissed By Fate - Tamara Ferguson
One fateful night, not so long ago . . .
The moon was bright and full on the night of Christina Montgomery’s celebration of life at the beach on Dragonfly Pointe. Nearly every resident from the town of Crystal Rock had arrived to visit with Christina before her sleepover under the stars.
Why, here?
There’d always been something rather otherworldly about this ground. And with her recent grim prognosis, Christina could identify, since she wasn’t fated to be of this world for too much longer. There was something magical—almost mystical—about Dragonfly Pointe. And ever since she’d been a child, Christina had been unusually drawn to this beach.
Here was where she meant to say her goodbyes to the friends she’d been the closest to.
Echoes of laughter could be heard in the distance where most of the other teenagers had gathered around the blazing bonfire erected alongside the beach. Sucking in an invigorating breath of the crisp night air, contentedly, Christina sighed, staring up to the sky. The dazzling night sky flashed stars so bright and clear, it almost appeared, that if she reached right up, she might be able to touch them.
Keeping an arm wrapped firmly over Christina’s shoulders, Kate Callahan cautiously guided her over the graveled pathway leading away from the beach. “Are we almost there?”
“Just a little further,” Christina answered, reassuring her friend.
Finally, they stopped only a few short steps from the edge of the beach.
“This is where you wanted to go?” The formation of rocks soaring up over the lake was a popular landmark for tourists. The view from atop Crystal Rock was spectacular. Kate hesitated, staring up to the widened ledge at the base of the cliffs. “But isn’t this where . . .?”
“Anna Ivers was discovered?” Twenty years before, a six-year old girl had been found brutally murdered here at Dragonfly Pointe. Doubting the wisdom of hosting a fundraiser for cancer research here at this beach, Christina’s mother had attempted to discourage her when they’d begun making their plans. Although countless rumors had circulated through the years about Dragonfly Pointe being haunted—especially since Anna’s murder, unfortunately, remained unsolved—Diane Montgomery just couldn’t say no to her daughter. With a wan smile, Christina nodded. “I’ve always felt her here, you know.”
Few people knew of Christina’s remarkable gift. Kate was only one of a handful of friends who didn’t roll her eyes when Christina claimed she could envision the past as well as foresee the future. But, undeniably, Christina’s prophecies had a strange predilection for coming true.
“Really? How, so?” Tugging the pillow from Christina’s arms, Kate tossed it up with her blanket to the ledge. Scrambling over the smooth slippery surface of the rocks, Kate spread the blanket over the dusty ground in the alcove above. Plumping up the pillow, she propped it against the far most wall. After that, she reached down from the ledge to close her hand over Christina’s, holding her steady while tugging her up into the shallow cave.
A few moments later, Christina was comfortably situated. And, wearily, she sighed as she reclined against her pillow. Carefully choosing her words, she finally answered Kate’s question. “Anna’s . . . unsettled. Her parents were divorced only a couple of years after she was murdered, you know.”
Kate nodded before reaching over and deftly readjusting the pretty pink stocking cap covering Christina’s head.
Distractedly, Christina frowned. She’d lost so much weight over the last few years. Her chemotherapy had been discontinued only a few months before after discovering it wasn’t halting the progression of her cancer. And she felt herself becoming weaker every day.
Settling back against the wall, Kate crossed one leg over the other. “Is there some particular reason you wanted to talk to me in here, Chris?” “It was just too crowded down at the beach, Kate. And I really needed to speak with you alone.” It took a moment for Christina to concentrate—the pain medication was making her feel spacier than usual tonight. Resignedly, she realized her mom must have upped her dosage. It definitely explained why everything she saw through her eyes tonight had taken on a hazy, dreamlike quality. “This place has always been special to me.”
Soothed by the subtle vibrations of water lapping gently over the rocks below, closing her eyes, she began to doze off. The trek along the beach had been exhausting.
Kate remained quiet as Christina took some time to recharge.
And, then, with a start, Christina finally spoke. “The Indians claim this ground is sacred, you know.”
Kate grinned. “Yeah. I think you might’ve already mentioned that to me a couple of times—or two.”
Ruefully, Christina smiled. “I’ve had a lot of time on my hands since I had to quit going to school. Once my mom bought me my new computer . . . well . . . I’ve been doing a lot of research about this town and its history.”
Kate chuckled. “You can’t fool me—you used to spend a lot of time at the library even before you got sick.” But then she frowned.
“That’s okay, Kate,” Christina whispered. Reaching out, she covered Kate’s hand with hers. “Wanna know what else I learned?”
“Sure.”
“Along with all the superstition, there’s some really interesting Indian folklore associated with Dragonfly Pointe.” She hesitated, before her eyes met Kate’s. “Supposedly—any death that occurs at Dragonfly Pointe actually provides strength to those left behind to mourn.” With a wry smile, she added, “Unfortunately, though, the progression of life and death is a given.”
When Kate reluctantly nodded her agreement, Christina sighed resignedly. There would be no miracle for her. Kate needed to realize that Christina had, long ago, accepted her fate. She’d always been much wiser than her fourteen years.
But she didn’t want to forget everything she needed to say to her very best friend. Her brain was becoming foggier and foggier, though.
Abruptly, she began, “It’ll happen with one single kiss.”
Kate blinked, clearly confused. “What?”
“That you’ll fall in love.”
Kate snorted.
But when Kate’s eyes met hers, Christina remained solemn. “You’ll fight it. And it’ll be several years before you’re willing to accept it. But you’re never gonna be able to forget that kiss.”
Uneasily, Kate giggled, clearing her throat. “It’s not that I don’t believe you, Chris. But why was it so important for you to tell me that?” Kate rolled her eyes. “We both know how annoying it is when our friends begin talking about their stupid boyfriend troubles.”
Christina hesitated, before her eyes suddenly filled with tears. “Did you know, Kate, that I’ve never even been kissed?” Hoarsely, she continued, “And, just like Anna, I’m never gonna have the chance to fall in love.”
Momentarily, Kate appeared stunned. Christina knew Kate was on a short string emotionally, attempting to remain strong for her. But, it was if a dam broke loose when, unexpectedly, Kate began to cry.
Pulling her into her arms, Christina whispered, “There’re gonna be some pretty devastating problems that your family will have to deal with in the future, Kate. And work’s gonna be all that’s important to you. But always remember that, one day, if you’re ever willing to accept it, you’ll have the chance to be incredibly happy. And I really need for you to be happy, Kate. Letting you know what to expect someday—so you don’t let happiness slip through your fingers—it’s the best final gift I could think of to give to you . . .”
Author Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Suspense
Website: Tamara Ferguson - Kissed by Fate
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Twitter: @Tammysdragonfly
E-Mail: Tammysdragonfly@gmail.com
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Author Description: A member of the Romance Writers of America, Tamara Ferguson is the #1 best-selling, multi-award winning author of the Tales of the Dragonfly Romance Suspense Series, the Kissed By Fate Series, and the Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Series.
Her latest wounded warrior romance novella, Two Hearts Unspoken, is included in the top-ten bestselling Holiday Anthology, Mother’s Day Magic…With Love, which was also #1 in Wounded Warrior Fiction. Since being released independently, Two Hearts Unspoken has just become a #1 Best Seller at Amazon as well as a #1 Hot New Release in both Ebooks and books. It’s also been #1 in 8 Wounded Warrior categories.
The wounded warrior romance, Two Hearts Surrendered, was originally published in the bestselling Magical Weddings anthology, which included stories by fifteen USA Today, best-selling, and award-winning authors. Two Hearts Surrendered independently earned 3-5 star reviews from Readers’ Favorite, and has just become a double #1 Best Seller at Amazon. Two Hearts Surrendered was also a New Adult Finalist in the Romance Reviews 2016 Reader’s Choice Awards.
Two Hearts Undone (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance #3) was released in May of 2016 by AA Publishing and was #1 in 8 Wounded Warrior categories at Amazon. This short story is also included in the Annie Acorn 2016 Romance Anthology.
That Unforgettable Kiss (Kissed by Fate Book 1) was a top ten Amazon bestseller in Kindle Saga Fiction, earned 3-5 star editorial reviews from Readers' Favorite, and was the 2015 WINNER of The Romance Reviews Readers' Choice Award in New Adult Romance.
That Unforgettable Kiss is currently featured in the #1 bestselling A Touch of Passion, 8 full-length novels by USA Today, New York Times bestselling and multi-award winning authors. This anthology is a #1 Holiday Romance (and more), and has just WON the 2016 Romance Reviews Reader’s Choice Award in Anthology Romance.
Tales of the Dragonfly In Tandem was a romance finalist at the 2013 Indie Excellence Awards, while Tales of the Dragonfly In Flight was a 2014 WINNER at the Readers' Favorite International Book Awards. In Flight is currently being rereleased by Blue Harvest Creative.
Since she remains a full-time caregiver for an autistic son, you can usually find Tammy working at home, where she spends a lot of time not completing her numerous home improvement projects, because she's writing or helping other author friends promote their books on twitter.
Author's Book List
Two Hearts Undone
- Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 3Located in the town of Crystal Rock, Wisconsin, Crystal Visions is a school and residence for the physically and mentally impaired. Now, a wounded warrior facility is being built nearby, for the military heroes returning home from war.
What drives the caring people behind the scenes? Meet Melinda McDaniel and Steven Ryder.
Mel’s an R.N., and Steve’s an ex-Navy medic and physical therapist. What’s their motivation for dedicating their lives to the care and rehabilitation of those in need?
Both have suffered incredible loss with the death of their significant other. They’ve known each other for three rocky years. Are they finally ready to recognize the attraction they’ve been fighting for each other just might be love?
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TWO HEARTS UNSPOKEN
- Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 2The single mom of a severely autistic son, Elizabeth Bowen is a full-time accountant in Illinois. But the plant where she's been working will be closing soon, due to the struggling economy in Illinois. She's had her hands full with her son Kyle, since his father's been long out of the picture, so when the opportunity to enroll Kyle in a vocational facility in Wisconsin comes up, she gladly accepts.
Retired air force captain, Zachary Logan, is a wounded warrior, searching for anew life for himself outside of the air force. When he relocates to the town of Crystal Rock at the invitation of his friend, Luke Bryant, he realizes he's found it, and accepts the position of administrator at the recently built wounded warrior facility.
When Beth and Zach meet at the beach at Dragonfly Pointe, their attraction to each other is instantaneous. And the most wonderful thing of all? Zach is accepting of her special needs son, Kyle, for exactly who he is.
But even after getting to know each other better, and sharing an incredibly passionate kiss, Beth is puzzled by Zach's behavior. What's Zach hiding, that's preventing him from taking the next step?
Could these two lonely people discover love is that something unspoken, that's been missing from their lives?
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TWO HEARTS SURRENDERED
- Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 1Luke Bryant and Kelly Callahan met on the beach at Dragonfly Pointe when they were only kids. And ever since thirteen-year old Luke saved six-year old Kelly from drowning, they've felt an undeniable connection. But Luke has a tarnished past, and despite his attraction to Kelly when they're growing up, he just doesn't think he's good enough for her.
When Luke comes home on leave from the Air Force, and attends the Magical Wedding of Kelly's sister Kate (Romance Reviews Readers' Choice Award WINNER-That Unforgettable Kiss), Luke and Kelly finally share an enchanting night of passion. They simply can't help themselves--they've loved each other nearly their entire lives.
College student Kelly has everything going for her--she's not only beautiful, but intelligent too. So when Luke eventually returns home from Iraq as a disheartened wounded warrior, even though he appears to want nothing to do with her, she refuses to give up on him. It's not about his looks, or his past--it's all about the connection they've shared since they were kids. Fate has always meant for them to be together--she's sure of it.
But will that past night of enchantment, be strong enough magic, for a military hero to finally surrender his heart to the woman he loves?
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In Flight
- A Tales of The Dragonfly NovelThe dragonfly is said to be a symbol of renewal after a time of great hardship.
A woman who’s afraid to trust. Successful designer, Penny Wentworth has arrived from New York to take charge of the wedding flowers for the new owners of the Dragonfly Pointe Inn. As a single parent of a severely autistic and mentally impaired son, she has no romantic illusions; her experience with an abusive husband has left her wary of relationships.
A man who’s afraid to love. Haunted by his past since discovering a six-year old girl brutally murdered at Dragonfly Pointe over twenty-two years before, Sam had intentionally avoided returning home. But after resigning from his job as a homicide detective in New Orleans when his marriage fell apart, Sam is now the chief of police in Crystal Rock, Wisconsin.
An undying passion that’s endured throughout the years. Penny’s escort for the wedding, Sam had once been the object of every single one of her teenage fantasies. Despite his overwhelming attraction to Penny as a teenager, Sam had deliberately kept his distance because of their age difference. But from the moment Sam meets Penny again, he realizes she’s always been the only woman for him.
And when Sam and Penny spend the entire weekend of the wedding together, their sizzling attraction turns explosive.
But unaware his divorce was never legally finalized, Sam has no idea that Vanessa Gerard Danielson is on her way to Crystal Rock attempting for reconciliation.
And now there’s a killer in their midst. Sam is stunned when Vanessa’s body is pulled out from the Crystal Rock River.
Indian legend claims Dragonfly Pointe has a mysterious power to ensure new beginnings. When Sam’s search for a killer, astonishingly, leads him back through his own tarnished past, will a woman who’s afraid to trust be able to forgive a man who considers himself undeserving of her love?
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Tales of the Dragonfly Book I: In Tandem
Separated by circumstances fifteen years earlier, Jake Loughlin and Danielle Reardon are fatefully reunited at Dragonfly Pointe.
But the mysterious Dragonfly Pointe has a history of tragedy. An unsolved brutal assault and murder of a six-year old girl over twenty years before has remained unsolved.
A successful entrepreneur, Jake has hidden his status as a special investigator for the FBI. As owner of the Dragonfly Pointe Inn, Jake has returned to restore and renovate the abandoned property.
But, unofficially, he’s investigating the theory that a ring of human traffickers is operating in the area. With three to five kidnappings occurring at the end of each year over the states of Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, Jake can trace a pattern going back as far as thirty-five years.
And there could be a connection to the death of the little girl at Dragonfly Pointe twenty-two years earlier.
After the death of her grandmother several months before, Danielle has returned to the family cabin for a short vacation. A former model and vocalist for a band, Danielle escaped her chaotic life as a celebrity when her boyfriend died of a drug overdose. After obtaining her horticulture degree, she opened a successful landscape business in New York.
When Jake and Danielle finally meet again, it's magic.
But something odd is going on at Dragonfly Pointe. During the reconstruction process, not only is a strange vehicle noticed, several times, traveling back and forth to Dragonfly Pointe, but a suspicious stranger is sighted around the area.
When a young girl is kidnapped from a nearby community, the FBI investigation becomes official, and Jake is put into action.
Then lovely eighteen-year old Lucy Callahan is kidnapped. Granddaughter of the former police chief of Crystal Rock, Lucy is like a sister to Danielle.
When the FBI investigation leads back to Dragonfly Pointe, Danielle, herself, is put in danger.
Despite its tragic history, the beauty and power of the magic at Dragonfly Pointe enables new beginnings.
Suffering tremendous loss, or surviving abuse and tragedy, each character featured in the series will create their own new beginning, aided by the power of love.
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Thank you so much for featuring That Unforgettable Kiss, James. I greatly appreciate it!!
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