{"title":"Romance Author J-L","description":"\u003cp\u003eRomance Books with Author surname J-L\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"fifty-shades-of-grey-by-e-l-james-256h","title":"Fifty Shades Of Grey by E. L. James","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a New Zealand classification of Fifty Shades Of Grey.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41795859939402,"sku":"256h","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/256h.jpg?v=1782700109"},{"product_id":"lucy-sullivan-is-getting-married-by-marian-keyes-722ad","title":"Lucy Sullivan Is Getting Married by Marian Keyes","description":"\u003cp\u003eLucy Sullivan Is Getting Married Keyes, Marian\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41795862626378,"sku":"722ad","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/722ad_37af5fe5-07c1-4801-bf04-af264ede61e9.jpg?v=1764148544"},{"product_id":"this-charming-man-by-marian-keyes-110i","title":"This Charming Man by Marian Keyes","description":"\u003cp\u003eLola Daly has just found out that her boyfriend - gorgeous, charming and powerful politician Paddy de Courcy - is getting married. To someone else. Heartbroken, Lola flees Dublin to a cottage in the countryside. Can a new set of friends help her to get over him? Journalist Grace Gildee wants the inside story on Paddy de Courcy's engagement. Lola refuses to talk the press but Grace won't give up. She knew Paddy a long time ago and hasn't forgotten him ...Marnie Hunter is Grace's twin sister. With a loving husband and two gorgeous daughters, Marnie seems to have it all. But she's haunted by memories. Memories that began with her first love - Paddy de Courcy. Can Marnie leave the past behind once and for all and move on with her life? Alicia Thornton is Paddy's wife-to-be. Determined to be the perfect wife, Alicia would do anything for her fiance. But does she know the real Paddy? Four women. One man. And a secret that binds them all.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41795877535818,"sku":"110i","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/110i_1_49197d99-aa3d-4aa4-bdd5-6b58a0b0e199.jpg?v=1764149233"},{"product_id":"whirlpool-by-elizabeth-lowell-62af","title":"Whirlpool by Elizabeth Lowell","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen an exquisitely crafted, authentic imperial Faberge egg mysteriously shows up at Laurel Swann's home studio, she knows it can only be from one person-her father, who has drifted in and out of her life for as long as she can remember. But this time Jamie Swann leaves her something too many people will kill for.  Out of her league and desperate, Laurel is forced to accept help from the very man who is trying to ensnare her father in his own web of double crosses. Cruz Rowan can help her stay alive, but will he do the same for her father?  Elizabeth Lowell, writing as Ann Maxwell, deftly combines the nonstop action of a spy thriller with the heart-pounding excitement of true love and adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41795962273866,"sku":"62af","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/62af_35cb27cf-99a7-4781-8888-639c4c740a35.jpg?v=1764152763"},{"product_id":"fifty-shades-of-grey-book-one-of-the-fifty-shades-trilogy-by-e-l-james-353u","title":"Fifty Shades Of Grey: Book One of the Fifty Shades Trilogy by E. L. James","description":"\u003cp\u003eAnd in this quiet moment as I close my eyes, spent and sated, I think I'm in the eye of the storm. And in spite of all he's said, and what he hasn't said, I don't think I have ever been so happy.  When literature student Anastasia Steele goes to interview young entrepreneur Christian Grey, she encounters a man who is beautiful, brilliant, and intimidating. The unworldly, innocent Ana is startled to realize she wants this man and, despite his enigmatic reserve, finds she is desperate to get close to him. Unable to resist Ana's quiet beauty, wit, and independent spirit, Grey admits he wants her, too--but on his own terms.  Shocked yet thrilled by Grey's singular erotic tastes, Ana hesitates. For all the trappings of success--his multinational businesses, his vast wealth, his loving family--Grey is a man tormented by demons and consumed by the need to control. When the couple embarks on a daring, passionately physical affair, Ana discovers Christian Grey's secrets and explores her own dark desires.  An Instant #1 New York Times Bestseller   More than 165 Million Copies Sold Worldwide   One of 100 Great Reads in the Great American Read   133 Weeks on the New York Times Bestseller List   This book is intended for mature audiences.  Editorial Reviews  Review  A GoodReads Choice Awards Finalist for Best Romance  In a class by itself. - Entertainment Weekly  About the Author  E L James is an incurable romantic and a self-confessed fangirl. After twenty-five years of working in television, she decided to pursue a childhood dream and write stories that readers could take to their hearts. The result was the controversial and sensuous romance Fifty Shades of Grey and its two sequels, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed. In 2015, she published the #1 bestseller Grey, the story of Fifty Shades of Grey from the perspective of Christian Grey, and in 2017, the chart-topping Darker, the second part of the Fifty Shades story from Christian's point of view. She followed with the #1 New York Times bestseller, The Mister in 2019. Her books have been published in fifty languages and have sold more than 165 million copies worldwide.  E L James has been recognized as one of Time magazine's Most Influential People in the World and Publishers Weekly's Person of the Year. Fifty Shades of Grey stayed on the New York Times bestseller list for 133 consecutive weeks. Fifty Shades Freed won the Goodreads Choice Award (2012), and Fifty Shades of Grey was selected as one of the 100 Great Reads, as voted by readers, in PBS's The Great American Read (2018). Darker was long-listed for the 2019 International DUBLIN Literary Award.  She was a producer on each of the three Fifty Shades movies, which made more than a billion dollars at the box office. The third installment, Fifty Shades Freed, won the People's Choice Award for Drama in 2018. E L James is blessed with two wonderful sons and lives with her husband, the novelist and screenwriter Niall Leonard, and their West Highland terriers in the leafy suburbs of West London.  Excerpt.  Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved. CHAPTER ONE  I scowl with frustration at myself in the mirror. Damn my hairit just won't behave, and damn Katherine Kavanagh for being ill and subjecting me to this ordeal. I should be studying for my final exams, which are next week, yet here I am trying to brush my hair into submission. I must not sleep with it wet. I must not sleep with it wet. Reciting this mantra several times, I attempt, once more, to bring it under control with the brush. I roll my eyes in exasperation and gaze at the pale, brown-haired girl with blue eyes too big for her face staring back at me, and give up. My only option is to restrain my wayward hair in a ponytail and hope that I look semi-presentable.  Kate is my roommate, and she has chosen today of all days to succumb to the flu. Therefore, she cannot attend the interview she'd arranged to do, with some mega-industrialist tycoon I've never heard of, for the student newspaper. So I have been volunteered. I have final exams to cram for and one essay to finish, and I'm supposed to be working this afternoon, but notoday I have to drive 165 miles to downtown Seattle in order to meet the enigmatic CEO of Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc. As an exceptional entrepreneur and major benefactor of our university, his time is extraordinarily preciousmuch more precious than minebut he has granted Kate an interview. A real coup, she tells me. Damn her extracurricular activities.  Kate is huddled on the couch in the living room.  Ana, I'm sorry. It took me nine months to get this interview. It will take another six to reschedule, and we'll both have graduated by then. As the editor, I can't blow this off. Please, Kate begs me in her rasping, sore throat voice. How does she do it? Even ill she looks gamine and gorgeous, strawberry blond hair in place and green eyes bright, although now red rimmed and runny. I ignore my pang of unwelcome sympathy.  Of course I'll go, Kate. You should get back to bed. Would you like some NyQuil or Tylenol?  NyQuil, please. Here are the questions and my digital recorder. Just press record here. Make notes, I'll transcribe it all.  I know nothing about him, I murmur, trying and failing to suppress my rising panic.  The questions will see you through. Go. It's a long drive. I don't want you to be late.  Okay, I'm going. Get back to bed. I made you some soup to heat up later. I stare at her fondly. Only for you, Kate, would I do this.  I will. Good luck. And thanks, Anaas usual, you're my lifesaver.  Gathering my backpack, I smile wryly at her, then head out the door to the car. I cannot believe I have let Kate talk me into this. But then Kate can talk anyone into anything. She'll make an exceptional journalist. She's articulate, strong, persuasive, argumentative, beautifuland she's my dearest, dearest friend.  The roads are clear as I set off from Vancouver, Washington, toward Interstate 5. It's early, and I don't have to be in Seattle until two this afternoon. Fortunately, Kate has lent me her sporty Mercedes CLK. I'm not sure Wanda, my old VW Beetle, would make the journey in time. Oh, the Merc is a fun drive, and the miles slip away as I hit the pedal to the metal.  My destination is the headquarters of Mr. Grey's global enterprise. It's a huge twenty-story office building, all curved glass and steel, an architect's utilitarian fantasy, with GREY HOUSE written discreetly in steel over the glass front doors. It's a quarter to two when I arrive, greatly relieved that I'm not late as I walk into the enormousand frankly intimidatingglass, steel, and white sandstone lobby.  Behind the solid sandstone desk, a very attractive, groomed, blonde young woman smiles pleasantly at me. She's wearing the sharpest charcoal suit jacket and white shirt I have ever seen. She looks immaculate.  I'm here to see Mr. Grey. Anastasia Steele for Katherine Kavanagh.  Excuse me one moment, Miss Steele. She arches her eyebrow as I stand self-consciously before her. I'm beginning to wish I'd borrowed one of Kate's formal blazers rather than worn my navy-blue jacket. I have made an effort and worn my one and only skirt, my sensible brown knee-length boots, and a blue sweater. For me, this is smart. I tuck one of the escaped tendrils of my hair behind my ear as I pretend she doesn't intimidate me.   Miss Kavanagh is expected. Please sign in here, Miss Steele. You'll want the last elevator on the right, press for the twentieth floor. She smiles kindly at me, amused no doubt, as I sign in.  She hands me a security pass that has visitor very firmly stamped on the front. I can't help my smirk. Surely it's obvious that I'm just visiting. I don't fit in here at all. Nothing changes. I inwardly sigh. Thanking her, I walk over to the bank of elevators and past the two security men who are both far more smartly dressed than I am in their well-cut black suits.  The elevator whisks me at terminal velocity to the twentieth floor. The doors slide open, and I'm in another large lobbyagain all glass, steel, and white sandstone. I'm confrontd by another desk of sandstone and another young blonde woman, this time dressed impeccably in black and white, who rises to greet me.  Miss Steele, could you wait here, please? She points to a seated area of white leather chairs.  Behind the leather chairs is a spacious glass-walled meeting room with an equally spacious dark wood table and at least twenty matching chairs around it. Beyond that, there is a floor-to-ceiling window with a view of the Seattle skyline that looks out through the city toward the Sound. It's a stunning vista, and I'm momentarily paralyzed by the view. Wow.  I sit down, fish the questions from my backpack, and go through them, inwardly cursing Kate for not providing me with a brief biography. I know nothing about this man I'm about to interview. He could be ninety or he could be thirty. The uncertainty is galling, and my nerves resurface, making me fidget. I've never been comfortable with one-on-one interviews, preferring the anonymity of a group discussion where I can sit inconspicuously at the back of the room. To be honest, I prefer my own company, reading a classic British novel, curled up in a chair in the campus library. Not sitting twitching nervously in a colossal glass-and-stone edifice.  I roll my eyes at myself. Get a grip, Steele. Judging from the building, which is too clinical and modern, I guess Grey is in his forties: fit, tanned, and fair-haired to match the rest of the personnel.  Another elegant, flawlessly dressed blonde comes out of a large door to the right. What is it with all the immaculate blondes? It's like Stepford here. Taking a deep breath, I stand up.  Miss Steele? the latest blonde asks.  Yes, I croak, and clear my throat. Yes. There, that sounded more confident.  Mr. Grey will see you in a moment. May I take your jacket?  Oh, please. I struggle out of the jacket.  Have you been offered any refreshment?  Umno. Oh dear, is Blonde Number One in trouble?  Blonde Number Two frowns and eyes the young woman at the desk. Would you like tea, coffee, water? she asks, turning her attention back to me.  A glass of water. Thank you, I murmur.  Olivia, please fetch Miss Steele a glass of water. Her voice is stern. Olivia scoots up and scurries to a door on the other side of the foyer.  My apologies, Miss Steele, Olivia is our new intern. Please be seated. Mr. Grey will be another five minutes.  Olivia returns with a glass of iced water.  Here you go, Miss Steele.  Thank you.  Blonde Number Two marches over to the large desk, her heels clicking and echoing on the sandstone floor. She sits down, and they both continue their work.  Perhaps Mr. Grey insists on all his employees being blonde. I'm wondering idly if that's legal, when the office door opens and a tall, elegantly dressed, attractive African American man with short dreads exits. I have definitely worn the wrong clothes.  He turns and says through the door, Golf this week, Grey?  I don't hear the reply. He turns, sees me, and smiles, his dark eyes crinkling at the corners. Olivia has jumped up and called the elevator. She seems to excel at jumping from her seat. She's more nervous than me!  Good afternoon, ladies, he says as he departs through the sliding door.  Mr. Grey will see you now, Miss Steele. Do go through, Blonde Number Two says. I stand rather shakily, trying to suppress my nerves. Gathering up my backpack, I abandon my glass of water and make my way to the partially open door.  You don't need to knockjust go in. She smiles kindly.   I push open the door and stumble through, tripping over my own feet and falling headfirst into the office.  Double crapme and my two left feet! I am on my hands and knees in the doorway to Mr. Grey's office, and gentle hands are around me, helping me to stand. I am so embarrassed, damn my clumsiness. I have to steel myself to glance up. Holy cowhe's so young.  Miss Kavanagh. He extends a long-fingered hand to me once I'm upright. I'm Christian Grey. Are you all right? Would you like to sit?  So youngand attractive, very attractive. He's tall, dressed in a fine gray suit, white shirt, and black tie with unruly dark copper-colored hair and intense, bright gray eyes that regard me shrewdly. It takes a moment for me to find my voice.   Um. Actually I mutter. If this guy is over thirty, then I'm a monkey's uncle. In a daze, I place my hand in his and we shake. As our fingers touch, I feel an odd exhilarating shiver run through me. I withdraw my hand hastily, embarrassed. Must be static. I blink rapidly, my eyelids matching my heart rate.  Miss Kavanagh is indisposed, so she sent me. I hope you don't mind, Mr. Grey.  And you are? His voice is warm, possibly amused, but it's difficult to tell from his impassive expression. He looks mildly interested but, above all, polite.  Anastasia Steele. I'm studying English literature with Kate, um . . . Katherine . . . um . . . Miss Kavanagh, at WSU Vancouver.  I see, he says simply. I think I see the ghost of a smile in his expression, but I'm not sure.  Would you like to sit? He waves me toward an L-shaped white leather couch.  His office is way too big for just one man. In front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, there's a modern dark wood desk that six people could comfortably eat around. It matches the coffee table by the couch. Everything else is whiteceiling, floors, and walls, except for the wall by the door, where a mosaic of small paintings hang, thirty-six of them arranged in a square. They are exquisitea series of mundane, forgotten objects painted in such precise detail they look like photographs. Displayed together, they are breathtaking.  A local artist. Trouton, says Grey when he catches my gaze.   They're lovely. Raising the ordinary to extraordinary, I murmur, distracted both by him and the paintings. He cocks his head to one side and regards me intently.  I couldn't agree more, Miss Steele, he replies, his voice soft, and for some inexplicable reason I find myself blushing.   Apart from the paintings, the rest of the office is cold, clean, and clinical. I wonder if it reflects the personality of the Adonis who sinks gracefully into one of the white leather chairs opposite me. I shake my head, disturbed at the direction of my thoughts, and retrieve Kate's questions from my backpack. Next, I set up the digital recorder and am all fingers and thumbs, dropping it twice on the coffee table in front of me. Mr. Grey says nothing, waiting patientlyI hopeas I become increasingly embarrassed and flustered. When I pluck up the courage to look at him, he's watching me, one hand relaxed in his lap and the other cupping his chin and trailing his long index finger across his lips. I think he's trying to suppress a smile.  S-sorry, I stutter. I'm not used to this.  Take all the time you need, Miss Steele, he says.  Do you mind if I record your answers?  After you've taken so much trouble to set up the recorder, you ask me now?  I flush. He's teasing me? I hope. I blink at him, unsure what to say, and I think he takes pity on me because he relents. No, I don't mind.  Did Kate, I mean, Miss Kavanagh, explain what the interview was for?  Yes. To appear in the graduation issue of the student newspaper as I shall be conferring the degrees at this year's graduation ceremony.  Oh! This is news to me, and I'm temporarily preoccupied by the thought that someone not much older than meokay, maybe six years or so, and okay, mega-successful, but stillis going to present me with my degree. I frown, dragging my wayward attention back to the task at hand.  Good. I swallow nervously. I have some questions, Mr. Grey. I smooth a stray lock of hair behind my ear.  I thought you might, he says, deadpan. He's laughing at me. My cheeks heat at the realization, and I sit up and square my shoulders in an attempt to look taller and more intimidating. Pressing the start button on the recorder, I try to look professional.   You're very young to have amassed such an empire. To what do you owe your success? I glance up at him. His smile is rueful, but he looks vaguely disappointed.   Business is all about people, Miss Steele, and I'm very good at juding people. I know how they tick, what makes them flourish, what doesn't, what inspires them, and how to incentivize them. I employ an exceptional team, and I reward them well. He pauses and fixes me with his gray stare. My belief is to achieve success in any scheme one has to make oneself master of that scheme, know it inside and out, know every detail. I work hard, very hard to do that. I make decisions based on logic and facts. I have a natural gut instinct that can spot and nurture a good solid idea and good people. The bottom line is it's always down to good people.  Maybe you're just lucky. This isn't on Kate's listbut he's so arrogant. His eyes flare momentarily in surprise.  I don't subscribe to luck or chance, Miss Steele. The harder I work the more luck I seem to have. It really is all about having the right people on your team and directing their energies accordingly. I think it was Harvey Firestone who said, 'The growth and development of people is the highest calling of leadership.'   You sound like a control freak. The words are out of my mouth before I can stop them.  Oh, I exercise control in all things, Miss Steele, he says without a trace of humor in his smile. I look at him, and he holds my gaze steadily, impassive. My heartbeat quickens, and my face flushes again.  Why does he have such an unnerving effect on me? His overwhelming good looks maybe? The way his eyes blaze at me? The way he strokes his index finger against his lower lip? I wish he'd stop doing that.  Besides, immense power is acquired by assuring yourself in your secret reveries that you were born to control things, he continues, his voice soft.  Do you feel that you have immense power? Control freak.  I employ over forty thousand people, Miss Steele. That gives me a certain sense of responsibilitypower, if you will. If I were to decide I was no longer interested in the telecommunications business and sell, twenty thousand people would struggle to make their mortgage payments after a month or so.  My mouth drops open. I am staggered by his lack of humility.  Don't you have a board to answer to? I ask, disgusted.  I own my company. I don't have to answer to a board. He raises an eyebrow at me. Of course, I would know this if I had done some research. But holy crap, he's arrogant. I change tack.  And do you have any interests outside your work?  I have varied interests, Miss Steele. A ghost of a smile touches his lips. Very varied. And for some reason, I'm confounded and heated by his steady gaze. His eyes are alight with some wicked thought.  But if you work so hard, what do you do to chill out?  Chill out? He smiles, revealing perfect white teeth. I stop breathing. He really is beautiful. No one should be this good-looking.  Well, to 'chill out,' as you put itI sail, I fly, I indulge in various physical pursuits. He shifts in his chair. I'm a very wealthy man, Miss Steele, and I have expensive and absorbing hobbies.  I glance quickly at Kate's questions, wanting to get off this subject.  You invest in manufacturing. Why, specifically? I ask. Why does he make me so uncomfortable?  I like to build things. I like to know how things work: what makes things tick, how to construct and deconstruct. And I have a love of ships. What can I say?  That sounds like your heart talking rather than logic and facts.  His mouth quirks up, and he stares appraisingly at me.   Possibly. Though there are people who'd say I don't have a heart.  Why would they say that?  Because they know me well. His lip curls in a wry smile.  Would your friends say you're easy to get to know? And I regret the question as soon as I say it. It's not on Kate's list.  I'm a very private person, Miss Steele. I go a long way to protect my privacy. I don't often give interviews . . .  Why did you agree to do this one?  Because I'm a benefactor of the university, and for all intents and purposes, I couldn't get Miss Kavanagh off my back. She badgered and badgered my PR people, and I admire that kind of tenacity.  I know how tenacious Kate can be. That's why I'm sitting here squirming uncomfortably under his penetrating gaze, when I should be studying for my exams.  You also invest in farming technologies. Why are you interested in that area?  We can't eat money, Miss Steele, and there are too many people on this planet who don't have enough to eat.  That sounds very philanthropic. Is it something you feel passionately about? Feeding the world's poor?  He shrugs noncommittally.  It's shrewd business, he murmurs, though I think he's being disingenuous. It doesn't make sensefeeding the world's poor? I can't see the financial benefit of this, only the virtue of the ideal. I glance at the next question, confused by his attitude.  Do you have a philosophy? If so, what is it?  I don't have a philosophy as such. Maybe a guiding principleCarnegie's: 'A man who acquires the ability to take full possession of his own mind may take possession of anything else to which he is justly entitled.' I'm very singular, driven. I like controlof myself and those around me.  So you want to possess things? You are a control freak.  I want to deserve to possess them, but yes, bottom line, I do.  You sound like the ultimate consumer.  I am. He smiles, but the smile doesn't touch his eyes. Again, this is at odds with someone who wants to feed the world, so I can't help thinking that we're talking about something else, but I'm mystified as to what it is. I swallow hard. The temperature in the room is rising, or maybe it's just me. I just want this interview to be over. Surely Kate has enough material now. I glance at the next question.  You were adopted. How much do you think that's shaped the way you are? Oh, this is personal. I stare at him, hoping he's not offended. His brow furrows.   I have no way of knowing.  My interest is piqued. How old were you when you were adopted?  That's a matter of public record, Miss Steele. His tone is stern. Crap. Yes, of courseif I'd known I was doing this interview, I would have done some research. Flustered, I move on quickly.  You've had to sacrifice family life for your work.  That's not a question. He's terse.  Sorry. I squirm; he's made me feel like an errant child. I try again. Have you had to sacrifice family life for your work?   I have a family. I have a brother and a sister and two loving parents. I'm not interested in extending my family beyond that.  Are you gay, Mr. Grey?  He inhales sharply, and I cringe, mortified. Crap. Why didn't I employ some kind of filter before I read this straight out? How can I tell him I'm just reading the questions? Damn Kate and her curiosity!  No, Anastasia, I'm not. He raises his eyebrows, a cool gleam in his eyes. He does not look pleased.  I apologize. It's, um . . . written here. It's the first time he's said my name. My heartbeat has accelerated, and my cheeks are heating up again. Nervously, I tuck my loosened hair behind my ear.  He cocks his head to one side.  These aren't your own questions?  The blood drains from my head.  Er . . . no. KateMiss Kavanaghshe compiled the questions.  Are you colleagues on the student paper? Oh no. I have nothing to do with the student paper. It's her extracurricular activity, not mine. My face is aflame.  No. She's my roommate.  He rubs his chin in quiet deliberation, his gray eyes appraising me.  Did you volunteer to do this interview? he asks, his voice deadly quiet.  Hang on, who's supposed to be interviewing whom? His eyes burn into me, and I'm compelled to answer with the truth.  I was drafted. She's not well. My voice is weak and apologetic.  That explains a great deal.  There's a knock at the door, and Blonde Number Two enters.  Mr. Grey, forgive me for interrupting, but your next meeting is in two minutes.  We're not finished here, Andrea. Please cancel my next meeting.  Andrea hesitates, gaping at him. She appears lost. He turns his head slowly to face her and raises his eyebrows. She flushes bright pink. Oh, good. It's not just me.  Very well, Mr. Grey, she mutters, then exits. He frowns, and turns his attention back to me.  Where were we, Miss Steele?  Oh, e're back to Miss Steele now.  Please, don't let me keep you from anything.  I want to know about you. I think that's only fair. His eyes are alight with curiosity. Double crap. Where's he going with this? He places his elbows on the arms of the chair and steeples his fingers in front of his mouth. His mouth is very . . . distracting. I swallow.  There's not much to know.  What are your plans after you graduate?  I shrug, thrown by his interest. Move to Seattle with Kate, find a job. I haven't really thought beyond my finals.  I haven't made any plans, Mr. Grey. I just need to get through my final exams. Which I should be studying for right now, rather than sitting in your palatial, swanky, sterile office, feeling uncomfortable under your penetrating gaze.  We run an excellent internship program here, he says quietly. I raise my eyebrows in surprise. Is he offering me a job?  Oh. I'll bear that in mind, I murmur, confounded. Though I'm not sure I'd fit in here. Oh no. I'm musing out loud again.  Why do you say that? He tilts his head to one side, intrigued, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.  It's obvious, isn't it? I'm uncoordinated, scruffy, and I'm not blonde.  Not to me. His gaze is intense, all humor gone, and strange muscles deep in my belly clench suddenly. I tear my eyes away from his scrutiny and stare blindly down at my knotted fingers. What's going on? I have to gonow. I lean forward to retrieve the recorder.  Would you like me to show you around? he asks.  I'm sure you're far too busy, Mr. Grey, and I do have a long drive.  You're driving back to Vancouver? He sounds surprised, anxious even. He glances out of the window. It's begun to rain. Well, you'd better drive carefully. His tone is stern, authoritative. Why should he care? Did you get everything you need? he adds.  Yes, sir, I reply, packing the recorder into my backpack. His eyes narrow, speculatively.  Thank you for the interview, Mr. Grey.  The pleasure's been all mine, he says, polite as ever.  As I rise, he stands and holds out his hand.  Until we meet again, Miss Steele. And it sounds like a challenge, or a threat, I'm not sure which. I frown. When will we ever meet again? I shake his hand once more, astounded that that odd current between us is still there. It must be my nerves.  Mr. Grey. I nod at him. Moving with lithe athletic grace to the door, he opens it wide.  Just ensuring you make it through the door, Miss Steele. He gives me a small smile. Obviously, he's referring to my earlier less-than-elegant entry into his office. I blush.  That's very considerate, Mr. Grey, I snap, and his smile widens. I'm glad you find me entertaining, I glower inwardly, walking into the foyer. I'm surprised when he follows me out. Andrea and Olivia both look up, equally surprised.  Did you have a coat? Grey asks.  A jacket.  Olivia leaps up and retrieves my jacket, which Grey takes from her before she can hand it to me. He holds it up and, feeling ridiculously self-conscious, I shrug it on. Grey places his hands for a moment on my shoulders. I gasp at the contact. If he notices my reaction, he gives nothing away. His long index finger presses the button summoning the elevator, and we stand waitingawkwardly on my part, coolly self-possessed on his. The doors open, and I hurry in, desperate to escape. I really need to get out of here. When I turn to look at him, he's gazing at me and leaning against the doorway beside the elevator with one hand on the wall. He really is very, very good-looking. It's unnerving.  Anastasia, he says as a farewell.  Christian, I reply. And mercifully, the doors close.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41795988783178,"sku":"353u","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/353u_1_f42ba43b-29d3-4805-a3b8-1022c05d6315.jpg?v=1764153542"},{"product_id":"going-the-distance-by-christina-jones-1216c","title":"Going the distance by Christina Jones","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41796210425930,"sku":"1216c","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/1216c_7fdca9db-e3ef-423e-ae3e-0174612d37aa.jpg?v=1764155567"},{"product_id":"perfect-partners-by-jayne-ann-krentz-1006ad","title":"Perfect Partners by Jayne Ann Krentz","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809355538506,"sku":"1006ad","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/1006ad.jpg?v=1764163982"},{"product_id":"from-this-moment-on-by-lynn-kurland-1006aj","title":"From This Moment On by Lynn Kurland","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809355571274,"sku":"1006aj","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/1006aj.jpg?v=1764163983"},{"product_id":"when-i-fall-in-love-by-lynn-kurland-1006al","title":"When I Fall In Love by Lynn Kurland","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809355604042,"sku":"1006al","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/Book-Express-No-Image-Main_4854c41e-a4d7-46f1-806e-18df1d6af1ec.png?v=1764163985"},{"product_id":"treasons-of-the-heart-by-charlotte-lamb-1012ac","title":"Treasons of the Heart by Charlotte Lamb","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen Claudia and Ben first meet in Paris, the sexual frisson between them is powerful and instantaneous - and mutual, until Claudia's home is burgled and she is violently attacked. She begins to suspect Ben is less interested in her than in Hugh, her father's best friend.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809376837706,"sku":"1012ac","price":11.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/1012ac_1.jpg?v=1764164492"},{"product_id":"the-husband-test-by-betina-krahn-53n","title":"The Husband Test by Betina Krahn","description":"\u003cp\u003eShe devised her own standards for the perfect man. Now, can she resist him?  Betina Krahn, the New York Times bestselling author of Sweet Talking Man and The Soft Touch, is at her most charming and witty in this enchanting tale of unlikely love.  She vowed never to be married....  Sister Eloise was perhaps the most well intentioned novice at the Convent of the Brides of Virtue - and the one always in the most trouble. Headstrong and earnest, she was determined to surprise her frustrated abbess and succeed in her latest role as the convent's new husband judge.   But to do so this modest beauty, who had forsaken all carnal pleasure, must judge a warrior whose mere presence exuded a dangerous, unpredictable, and totally male sensuality.  He'd do anything to be a husband....  Peril, earl of Whitmore, needed a virtuous wife in the worst possible way. And he could think of no way worse than taking a stubborn, opinionated young novice back to his blighted estate and proving he was husband material. But in the days and nights to come he finds that the one test he can't pass is resisting this maddeningly irresistible woman.   And as the dark secret of the Whitmore estate is revealed and their passion ignited by a single forbidden touch, they find that the perfect match is often made in a far more sensuous place than heaven.  Editorial Reviews  Krahn has a delightful, smart touch. - Publishers Weekly  Don't miss these other dazzling romances by Betina Krahn:  The Last Bachelor The Perfect Mistress The Unlikely Angel The Mermaid The Soft Touch Sweet Talking Man  Available wherever Bantam Books are sold - From the Publisher\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809397678154,"sku":"53n","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/53n.jpg?v=1764165069"},{"product_id":"love-storm-by-susan-johnson-221w","title":"Love Storm by Susan Johnson","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis erotic romance, long out of print, returns for the fans of the bestselling author of Pure Sin, Seized by Love and Outlaw. When the notorious rake Prince Alexander Kuzan encountered the alluring redhead seeking safe passage to her ancestral home, little did he suspect that Zena would entangle him in a rapturous struggle for the heart.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571020874,"sku":"221w","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221w.jpg?v=1764168833"},{"product_id":"taboo-st-john-duras-by-susan-johnson-221x","title":"Taboo (St. John-Duras) by Susan Johnson","description":"\u003cp\u003eThrough eleven nationally bestselling books, award winner Susan Johnson has won a legion of fans for her lushly romantic historical novels. Now she delivers her most thrilling tale yet--a searing blend of rousing adventure and wild, forbidden love... n nMarried against her will to the brutal Russian general who conquered her people, Countess Teo Korsakova has never known what it means to want a man...until now. Trapped behind enemy lines, held captive by her husband's most formidable foe, she should fear for her life. But all Teo feels in General Andre Duras's shattering presence is breathless passion. France's most victorious commander, Andre knows that he should do the honorable thing, knows too that on the eve of battle he cannot afford so luscious a distraction. Yet something about Teo lures him to do the unthinkable: to seduce his enemy's wife, and to let himself love a woman who can never be his. n nEditorial Reviews\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571053642,"sku":"221x","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221x.jpg?v=1764168844"},{"product_id":"master-of-temptation-by-nicole-jordan-221aa","title":"Master of Temptation by Nicole Jordan","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn her dazzling new novel, Nicole Jordan tempts readers with a tale of breathless splendor and soul-searing passion. n nLovers in paradise . . . n nHe is a brilliant military commander . . . and every woman's temptation. When Max Leighton unexpectedly comes to her golden Mediterranean island, Caro Evers longs to heal his emotional battle scars. But during one glorious night in his arms, she discovers a sensual master whose mere touch drives her to wild abandon. n nShe is the bewitching angel he can't forget. Jaded by the glittering ballrooms of Regency London, Max returns to Cyrene to find the temptress who haunts his dreams . . . only to learn that Caro leads a dangerous double life. She's a warrior as well as a healer-a member of a secret society of protectors, sworn to fight evil and tyranny across Europe. n nAfraid to lose her heart to Max again, Caro vows to conquer her fierce tenderness for him and thwart his campaign to win her. Then a perilous mission of adventure takes them far from Cyrene's sun-splashed shores, entwining their destinies and challenging their deepest desires.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571151946,"sku":"221aa","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221aa.jpg?v=1764168845"},{"product_id":"the-prince-of-pleasure-by-nicole-jordan-221ab","title":"The Prince of Pleasure by Nicole Jordan","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe incomparable Nicole Jordan weaves a seductive tale of passion and betrayal, intrigue and destiny, in her most devastatingly delicious love story yet. . . . n nHe is England's most notorious rake. Known as Dare to his friends, the wicked, outrageously charming Marquess of Wolverton is a consummate pleasure-seeker. But the seductive lifestyle is just his way of burying painful memories of the dazzling actress who once shattered his heart. When treachery threatens the Crown, Dare resolves to use his former beloved to help unmask a deadly traitor. n nForced to betray the only man she ever loved, Julienne wants simply to forget the tender passion they had known as young lovers. But when Dare publicly vows to have her again as his mistress, she responds to his challenge with a vow of her own: to bring the Prince of Pleasure to his arrogant knees. n nAs romantic adversaries, they play a provocative game of seduction. As patriotic allies, they embark on a perilous mission rife with danger and desire. And as their unforgettable passion rekindles, together they discover what Dare has long denied--that true love is the greatest pleasure of all.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571184714,"sku":"221ab","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221ab.jpg?v=1764168846"},{"product_id":"born-to-be-bad-by-sherrilyn-kenyon-221ae","title":"Born to Be BAD by Sherrilyn Kenyon","description":"\u003cp\u003eNew York Times bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon has created a sensation with her sexy stories about the Bureau of American Defense. Now, three novellas about BAD agents are collected in one steamy volume!  nIn the all-new One BAD Night the bureau believes that agent Jason Banks has sold them out. Agent Samantha Winslow has never particularly cared for Jason, whom she reluctantly finds attractive, and she volunteers to bring him in. Under orders to infiltrate his rogue mission and kidnap him, she is also trying to pull off the ultimate double-cross. But who would have guessed that Jason would be so pleased to be her captive?  nIn BAD to the Bone Marianne wins the Hideaway Heroine Sweepstakes and a chance to pretend to be the heroine in her favorite romance novel. Whisked away to a remote island, Marianne's daydreams become real when BAD agent Kyle Foster kidnaps her and uncovers her every fantasy.  nIn 'Captivated' by You BAD agent Rhea must go undercover as a dominatrix to capture a deadly terrorist. Fortunately, Agent Ace Krux, whom she has long desired, is her training partner. Immediately, the roles of master and slave are wonderfully blurred, and Rhea and Ace unleash a wealth of hidden desire.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571250250,"sku":"221ae","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221ae.jpg?v=1764168847"},{"product_id":"heart-of-the-tiger-by-lynn-kerstan-221af","title":"Heart of the tiger by Lynn Kerstan","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Golden Leopard swept readers away on a worldwide adventure of intrigue and romance. Now Lynn Kerstan continues her mesmerizing saga-with an unforgettable tale of forbidden passion and revenge...  n nEver since she was brutalized by the vicious Duke of Tallant, Mira Holcombe has no trust to lavish upon any man. All she wants is to destroy the duke, but first she must resist the fiery passion stirred by Michael Keynes-the brother of the beast who has ruined her life.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571283018,"sku":"221af","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221af.jpg?v=1764168849"},{"product_id":"once-upon-a-dream-by-katherine-kingsley-221aj","title":"Once upon a dream by Katherine Kingsley","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Dell book.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571315786,"sku":"221aj","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221aj.jpg?v=1764168850"},{"product_id":"call-down-the-moon-by-katherine-kingsley-221ak","title":"Call Down the Moon by Katherine Kingsley","description":"\u003cp\u003eHailed by Romantic Times as a miracle worker, bestselling, award-winning author Katherine Kingsley brings her remarkable powers of storytelling and enchantment to this breathtaking new novel. n nWith a shadowy past and only dreams for her future, Meggie Bloom was tending the lost souls at Woodbridge Sanitarium when the handsome stranger's cobalt gaze awakened her to a woman's desire. Suddenly the mind-reading gifts that made Meggie an outcast deserted her. She couldn't read Lord Hugo Montagu, yet he haunted her dreams. Then he magically returned to offer her freedom--if she would become his wife.... n nMarriage was unthinkable for the notorious rake Hugo Montagu--until he lost everything on a bet. Meggie Bloom didn't know she was about to inherit a fortune. But he did. Nothing could have prepared him for the deep passions and surprising mysteries Meggie's innocence would unlock in him. But could an extraordinary woman's love transform him into a man of honor and make him worthy of a wife who could see into his soul, make him believe in the impossible and...\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571381322,"sku":"221ak","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221ak.jpg?v=1764168851"},{"product_id":"the-sound-of-snow-by-katherine-kingsley-221al","title":"The sound of snow by Katherine Kingsley","description":"\u003cp\u003eHer love reawakened his heart. His touch taught her the meaning of desire . . . n nSometimes what happens between a man and a woman can be miraculous. n nBestselling, award-winning author Katherine Kingsley casts her beguiling spell once again in this magical, unforgettable story of betrayal, seduction, and the redeeming power of love. . . . n nThe whisper of scandal . . . n nAfter years of exile on the Continent, Joanna was returning to the aristocratic English society she left in disgrace. Nothing--not even the gossip mongers--could keep her from Wakefield Abbey, where she intended to rescue her cousin Lydia's beloved son from his own father, the man Joanna suspected of Lydia's untimely death. Cool, dashing, and devilishly handsome, Guy de Salis, Marquess of Greaves, seemed capable of anything--except giving and receiving love. n nThe song of love . . . n nShe bore a startling resemblance to his dead wife. Clearly, Joanna was a woman to beware. Reluctantly, Guy asked her to be his son's governess and was astonished when the troubled child bloomed under her care. Before he knew it, the beautiful, exasperating woman was upsetting his well-ordered life, challenging his well-guarded secrets, making him imagine what joy there could be in loving the right woman--if only he could express the silent passions that raged in his torn and broken heart.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571414090,"sku":"221al","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/221al.jpg?v=1764168852"},{"product_id":"the-challenge-by-edith-layton-222o","title":"The challenge by Edith Layton","description":"\u003cp\u003eWealthy, handsome, and devastatingly charming, the expatriate Viscount Hathaway Wycoff could easily win most women's affections. But the lovely Lucy Stone isn't most women. Though the self-respecting beauty is drawn to him, she refuses to give in to passion. Once before Lucy had followed her heart--a journey that took her to America and left her there a penniless young widow and mother. n nA rich relative unexpectedly offers Lucy and her son passage back to England, answering her longtime prayer. She doesn't want to leave Wycoff, but given his scandalous reputation, it seems the right choice. Wycoff promises he will change to win her, but Lucy cannot allow herself to believe him. When a devious plot threatens all Lucy holds dear, she must turn to the man she's vowed not to trust. Neither knows what final destination fate has in store--but they are willing to risk everything to find out.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809571446858,"sku":"222o","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/222o.jpg?v=1764168854"},{"product_id":"brazen-by-susan-johnson-224y","title":"Brazen by Susan Johnson","description":"\u003cp\u003e438 p. ; 18 cm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809572888650,"sku":"224y","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/224y.jpg?v=1764168897"},{"product_id":"threads-of-destiny-by-arnette-lamb-224ag","title":"Threads of destiny by Arnette Lamb","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginally published: New York : Warner Books, 1990\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809572921418,"sku":"224ag","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/224ag.jpg?v=1764168898"},{"product_id":"to-tempt-a-bride-by-edith-layton-224ao","title":"To tempt a bride by Edith Layton","description":"\u003cp\u003eIt is love a first sight for Camille when she meets dashing Eric Ford, but the former military officer has no patience for her romantic games and believes that the spirited and passionate beauty deserves much better than her unofficial protector\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809572954186,"sku":"224ao","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/224ao.jpg?v=1764168900"},{"product_id":"fifty-shades-freed-by-e-l-james-256w","title":"Fifty Shades Freed by E. L. James","description":"\u003cp\u003eMORE THAN 100 MILLION COPIES SOLD WORLDWIDE FIFTY SHADES OF GREY IS NOW A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE  When unworldly student Anastasia Steele first encountered the driven and dazzling young entrepreneur Christian Grey it sparked a sensual affair that changed both of their lives irrevocably. Shocked, intrigued, and, ultimately, repelled by Christian's singular erotic tastes, Ana demands a deeper commitment. Determined to keep her, Christian agrees.  Now, Ana and Christian have it all--love, passion, intimacy, wealth, and a world of possibilities for their future. But Ana knows that loving her Fifty Shades will not be easy, and that being together will pose challenges that neither of them would anticipate. Ana must somehow learn to share Christian's opulent lifestyle without sacrificing her own identity. And Christian must overcome his compulsion to control as he wrestles with the demons of a tormented past.  Just when it seems that their strength together will eclipse any obstacle, misfortune, malice, and fate conspire to make Ana's deepest fears turn to reality.  This book is intended for mature audiences.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809585569866,"sku":"256w","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/256w_208b0355-6e8c-4234-9c2e-1ede759b837a.jpg?v=1778470361"},{"product_id":"the-bosss-baby-by-miranda-lee-267u","title":"The Boss's Baby by Miranda Lee","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809594318922,"sku":"267u","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/267u.jpg?v=1764169790"},{"product_id":"french-kiss-by-susan-johnson-281d","title":"French Kiss by Susan Johnson","description":"\u003cp\u003eL.A. architect Nicole Lesdaux is hired to create a tree house for hunky producer Johnny Patrick's little girl. Despite Nicky's torrid fantasies about him, she must focus on work-until Johnny's ex-wife takes off to Paris with their daughter. Since Nicky speaks French, Johnny asks her for help. En route, sexual tensions run high. And, as Nicky discovers, Johnny does know some French after all.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809604608074,"sku":"281d","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/281d_1.jpg?v=1764170235"},{"product_id":"the-school-for-heiresses-by-sabrina-jeffries-carlyle-liz-282b","title":"The School for Heiresses by Sabrina Jeffries,Carlyle,Liz","description":"\u003cp\u003eInspired by New York Times bestselling author Sabrina Jeffries's School for Heiresses series, this delightful anthology features four young women who learn that there's nothing textbook about love. . . .   It is better not to marry at all than to marry badly.  -- Mrs. Charlotte Harris, headmistress   At the School for Heiresses, the lessons go far beyond etiquette and needlepoint. In addition to teaching her students how to avoid fortune hunters, headmistress and founder Charlotte Harris proposes the radical notion that women of means need not shackle themselves to men at all -- unless they find a suitable, desirable mate. So lessons in the fine art of acquiring a loving and passionate husband are part of the curriculum at this highly unusual school. And as the holidays approach, Mrs. Harris sends her young ladies home with personally tailored lessons to work on. Will they return any closer to finding the perfect husband?   Join this dazzling roster of authors as they put their own spin on the School for Heiresses in four spirited tales of passion!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809604935754,"sku":"282b","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/282b.jpg?v=1765574271"},{"product_id":"the-passion-by-nicole-jordan-282g","title":"The Passion by Nicole Jordan","description":"\u003cp\u003eTo escape marriage to a despised man twice her age, Lady Aurora Demming makes a scandalous arrangement with Nicholas Sabine, a dangerously handsome American facing execution for murder and piracy. She agrees to become his wife for one day . . . and one glorious, intoxicating night. Widowed, Aurora returns to London society with Nicholas's orphaned sister at her side to face a lifetime without love--until her dead husband returns, insisting that she honor their vows and haunting her dreams with promises of forbidden desire. . . .\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809604968522,"sku":"282g","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/282g.jpg?v=1764170264"},{"product_id":"the-longing-by-wendy-lindstrom-282z","title":"The longing by Wendy Lindstrom","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Longing Wendy Lindstrom Golden Heart award-winning author of Shades of Honor   Would she surrender her vow to love in name only?  Wendy Lindstrom burst onto the scene with her Golden Heart award-winning novel Shades of Honor and took her place in the ranks of today's most popular authors. Now, in a powerful new novel of marriage, secrets, and seduction-she tells the story of a couple brought together by honor...and united by love.  She Needed A Husband Amelia Drake became a bride because she was tired of being played for a fool. As a naive teen, she'd been seduced, abandoned, and doomed to life as a spinster. Her father's sudden death left her facing financial ruin. And when his business rival-sawmill owner Kyle Grayson-unwittingly puts her in a compromising position, she is determined to save her honor the only way she can: marriage to a man she barely knows...  He Needed Her Love... When Kyle Grayson accused his competitor Tom Drake of treachery, he never imagined the man would die in his arms. Wracked with guilt, he marries Amelia and vows to resurrect her father's lumberyard. Though hard and cynical when it comes to love, he is all too aware of his desire for his beautiful wife-sensing her secret longing for his touch, her fear of his passion...and the unspoken secrets weighing down on their marriage. But will the searing truth deep in their heart hold the power of forgiveness-and a chance for everlasting love?  Guaranteed to move you to tears and even laughter...a portent of great things to come from a very powerful new voice in the genre. --Romantic Times on Shades of Honor  A perfect ten...one story that should not be missed. --Romance Reviews Today on Shades of Honor\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809605034058,"sku":"282z","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/282z.jpg?v=1764170266"},{"product_id":"my-lady-beloved-by-lael-st-james-282ak","title":"My lady beloved by Lael St. James","description":"\u003cp\u003e358 pages ; 18 cm  Garbiella Redclift is captured on her way to be married by her finace's enemy, Morgan Chalstry  Linda Lael Miller writing as Lael St. James--Cover\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809605165130,"sku":"282ak","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/282ak.jpg?v=1764170271"},{"product_id":"mine-to-take-by-dara-joy-308n","title":"Mine to Take by Dara Joy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809621319754,"sku":"308n","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/308n.jpg?v=1764171206"},{"product_id":"high-energy-by-dara-joy-308o","title":"High energy by Dara Joy","description":"\u003cp\u003ePhysics. Zanita Masterson knew nothing about the subject, and cared little to learn -- until a reporting job led her to one Tyberius Augustus Evans. The rogue scientist was six feet of piercing blue eyes, rock-hard muscles and maverick ideas, and the notion that he was seriously interested in her seemed insane. But a night of monster movies, cookie-dough ice cream and wild love was almost enough to convince Zanita that the passion-minded professor was determined to woo her -- with his own masterful equation for sizzling ecstasy and...\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809621549130,"sku":"308o","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/308o.jpg?v=1764171208"},{"product_id":"knight-of-a-trillion-stars-futuristic-romance-by-dara-joy-309f","title":"Knight of a Trillion Stars (Futuristic Romance) by Dara Joy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809621647434,"sku":"309f","price":7.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/309f.jpg?v=1764171222"},{"product_id":"an-outrageous-proposal-by-miranda-lee-529be","title":"An outrageous proposal by Miranda Lee","description":"\u003cp\u003e188 pages\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41809882579018,"sku":"529be","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/529be.jpg?v=1764179183"},{"product_id":"marriage-games-by-sheldon-lord-631q","title":"Marriage games by Sheldon Lord","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810345066570,"sku":"631q","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/Book-Express-No-Image-Main_2361449a-0d2c-4902-a3d1-9d9e07eaa9e1.png?v=1764182265"},{"product_id":"perfect-partners-by-jayne-ann-krentz-645y","title":"Perfect Partners by Jayne Ann Krentz","description":"\u003cp\u003eJoel Blackstone doesn't think that librarian Letitia Thornquist has the right stuff to run Thornquist Gear Inc. Teaching her the business is all he plans to do, until the sensual curves under Letty's navy-blue suit and the desire in her eyes leave him longing for a more personal kind of merger.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810431311946,"sku":"645y","price":10.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/645y.jpg?v=1764182655"},{"product_id":"promoted-by-jennie-adams-liz-fielding-656d","title":"Promoted by Jennie Adams,Liz Fielding","description":"\u003cp\u003eAustralian Author--Cover. -Bonus Novella--Cover.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810578341962,"sku":"656d","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656d.jpg?v=1764182908"},{"product_id":"us-male-by-kristin-hardy-kristin-hardy-656ar","title":"U.S. Male by Kristin Hardy,Kristin Hardy","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810591481930,"sku":"656ar","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656ar.jpg?v=1764182952"},{"product_id":"proud-revenge-passionate-wedlock-by-janette-kenny-656aw","title":"Proud Revenge, Passionate Wedlock by Janette Kenny","description":"\u003cp\u003eWedlock - for revenge or pleasure? Untameable conquistador blood runs fiercely through Miguel Gutierrez's veins. He's conquered the business world to make billions, built his luxury hacienda - he owns all he can see... But the one thing he can't buy is his wife's love. Miguel is a proud and passionate man. He has vowed to honour Allegra to his dying day. But now that promise has changed. Miguel will make her regret her callous disregard of their marriage vows. He will not let her go - not until he's had his revenge...-- Publisher description.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810596429898,"sku":"656aw","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656aw.jpg?v=1764182954"},{"product_id":"coming-soon-by-jo-leigh-jordan-summers-656ax","title":"Coming Soon by Jo Leigh,Jordan Summers","description":"\u003cp\u003eATF special agent Delaney Carter despises flying yet she's landed an undercover job as a flight attendant! Her assignment: recruit arms dealer Jack Gordon and find out everything he knows about an upcoming weapons sale. But instead, she finds herself tangled up in Jack's bed. Lack of judgment? No, she's just doing her job - over and over again.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810598690890,"sku":"656ax","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656ax.jpg?v=1764182955"},{"product_id":"nine-months-to-redeem-him-by-jennie-lucas-656ay","title":"Nine Months to Redeem Him by Jennie Lucas","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is all I can give you, he said. Do you agree?   Yes, I whispered, my lips brushing against his. I hardly knew what I was saying. I could think of nothing other than the darkly powerful Edward St Cyr. I was too lost in the moment, lost in pleasure that made the world a million colors of twisting light.   I gave him my body, which he wanted, and my heart, which he didn't. Had I just made the biggest mistake of my life? Maybe when he knows about our baby, it will heal his wounded heart so he can love us both...\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810601148490,"sku":"656ay","price":5.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656ay.jpg?v=1764182956"},{"product_id":"primal-instincts-by-jill-monroe-jill-monroe-656bi","title":"Primal Instincts by Jill Monroe,Jill Monroe","description":"\u003cp\u003e Primal Instincts by Jill Monroe Observations: Sexual energy between subjects increases exponentially. Note the male's quickened breathing and urge to do lusty and inappropriate things. The female, in turn, decides to demonstrate her extensive knowledge of play and ritual. The results? Sexual tension rises significantly between Subjects A and B until neither wants the study to end...   Your Bed Or Mine? by Kate Hoffmann  When they were teenagers, Jake Burton had been the perfect boy next door-and the object of Caley Lambert's most daring fantasies. But that was back when she was a kid. Caley's definitely over him now. Or so she thinks... Because the perfect boy is all man now. Not to mention an endlessly inventive lover.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810636734538,"sku":"656bi","price":6.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/656bi.jpg?v=1764182964"},{"product_id":"deception-island-by-brynn-kelly-694v","title":"Deception Island by Brynn Kelly","description":"\u003cp\u003eA stolen boy. A haunted soldier. A cornered con woman...   Rafe Angelito thought he was done with the demons from his past - until his son is kidnapped. Blackmailed into abducting an American heiress, the legionnaire soon finds himself trapped in paradise with a fiery, daring beauty who's nothing he expects...and everything he desires. But when he uncovers her own dark secret, Rafe realizes he's made a critical mistake - one that could cost him everything.   Playing body double for a spoiled socialite was supposed to be Holly Ryan's ticket to freedom. But when she's snatched off her yacht by a tall, dark and dangerous stranger, the not-quite-reformed con artist will make a desperate play to turn her captor from enemy to ally, by any means necessary.   Yet as scorching days melt into sultry nights, Holly is drawn to the mysterious capitaine, with his unexpected sense of honour and his searing touch. When they're double-crossed, they'll have to risk trusting each other in ways they never imagined...because in this deadly game of deception, it's their lives - and hearts - on the line.   Captivating and cutting edge! Deception Island offers smouldering chemistry, cunning twists, and a whole lot of heart. Brynn Kelly delivers everything I love in a romance. - New York Times bestselling author Heather Graham   In Deception Island, Brynn Kelly pens a raw, dark, emotional novel of danger and intrigue that will keep readers turning the pages. - New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin   Kidnappings and pirates and romance - oh my! Brynn Kelly's fresh new voice is sure to become a mainstay among romantic suspense aficionados! Deception Island is a keeper. - New York Times bestselling author Cindy Gerard\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810891079754,"sku":"694v","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/694v.jpg?v=1764183835"},{"product_id":"put-out-the-fires-by-maureen-lee-694x","title":"Put out the fires by Maureen Lee","description":"\u003cp\u003ePut Out the Fires [Paperback]\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810891112522,"sku":"694x","price":10.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/694x.jpg?v=1764183836"},{"product_id":"the-girl-from-barefoot-house-by-maureen-lee-694z","title":"The Girl from Barefoot House by Maureen Lee","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810891145290,"sku":"694z","price":10.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/694z.jpg?v=1764183837"},{"product_id":"love-come-no-more-by-adam-kennedy-695w","title":"Love Come No More by Adam Kennedy","description":"\u003cp\u003e504 pages ; 18 cm  Originally published: London: Headline, 1992\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810892030026,"sku":"695w","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/695w.jpg?v=1764183869"},{"product_id":"the-woman-who-stole-my-life-by-marian-keyes-697n","title":"The Woman Who Stole My Life by Marian Keyes","description":"\u003cp\u003eBOOKS\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810893242442,"sku":"697n","price":10.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/697n.jpg?v=1764183940"},{"product_id":"always-a-stranger-by-margaret-p-kirk-697o","title":"Always A Stranger by Margaret P. Kirk","description":"\u003cp\u003e501 pages\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810893275210,"sku":"697o","price":10.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/697o.jpg?v=1764183941"},{"product_id":"virtual-heaven-perfect-heroes-series-by-ann-lawrence-732ac","title":"Virtual Heaven (Perfect Heroes Series) by Ann Lawrence","description":"\u003cp\u003eWhen Maggie O'Brien's virtual game suddenly becomes a reality, she is confronted by a gorgeous, well-muscled warrior who sets her pulse racing, and it is up to her to keep him safe when danger threatens to tear them apart. Original.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Book Express","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41810921914442,"sku":"732ac","price":8.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0618\/9101\/8826\/files\/732ac.jpg?v=1764184788"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.bookexpress.nz\/collections\/romance-books-by-author-j-l.oembed?page=19","provider":"Book Express","version":"1.0","type":"link"}