My latest read in this series of hot authors from New Jersey is Babette James whose contemporary romance, KISSING KATIE, is the perfect balance of sexy and sweet.
Katie Vanburen and Matt Powell once spent summer after summer together in scenic Lavallette, NJ, but the friends lost touch after Matt’s parents divorced.
Years later, Matt rents the beach house that once belonged to his grandparents, noting that the house next door appears to be occupied by new owners. He is caught off guard when a beautiful woman runs over from the neighbor’s yard and throws her arms around him. It’s his long-lost Katie, all grown up. A widow whose deceased husband’s memory is soiled by a history of cheating, Katie has had a hard time moving on. Matt, a high-powered lawyer with huge offers from three different firms, isn’t sure he’ll be able to devote time and attention to a serious relationship…but soon he knows he has to try. Once he kisses Katie, he knows he can’t bear to be separated from her again.
This super sweet romance put me right at the Jersey shore. James’s setting descriptions are immersive, and her love story is heartfelt. My favorite are scenes that include changing weather. These fine brush strokes reflect not only the romantic elements of this book but the playfulness of the characters who are rediscovering their youth. Matt and Katie felt more like real people than characters to me, and I really enjoyed spending time with them. This is the perfect, relaxing beach read for the summer!
Here’s a link to Babette James’s website: http://babettejames.com/
Michelle Joyce Bond
michellejoycebond.com 
Sounds like a sweet story. And I love the alliteration of the title. 🙂
I do, too! She uses alliteration for two of her other book titles: Convincing Cami and Tempting Tessa.
Those are great too. 🙂 And thank you for the Twitter share. Much appreciated!
Thanks, Michelle! So glad you enjoyed Kissing Katie. I loved writing this story.
🙂