Hello, darlings! Back for another steamy contemporary novella fix? I have you covered.

Five fangirls find love at the Philadelphia Comic Convention. This novella series follows each fangirl as they inadvertently fall in love during the event!

The Cosplayer showed Vicky snagging one of the hottest actors at the con–while he was in cosplay as his own character! Talk about a case of mistaken identity. He should have known better, but it all worked out in the end. Vicky and Jason’s story is available now in ebook.

The Artist picks up at the same fandom convention where we began The Cosplayer. Only this time, we’re focused on Jessica as she navigates her first convention and falls–almost literally–for the sweetest guy, who happens to be a blind artist selling his work while cosplaying as Daredevil. But Jessica isn’t keen on relationships after some horrible experiences with her ex-boyfriends, and Alex really is a cinnamon roll with all the golden retriever energy. Their story is sweet while also giving that kick of spice we all crave.

Sweet with a whole lot of heat. 🔥

Here’s the blurb and a special look at the first chapter of The Artist.

I don’t do crowds or relationships. This is my first convention, and while I’m excited to finally meet my fellow fangirls, I’m already regretting such a huge commitment. My anxiety is through the roof, but I’m determined to see it through.

When Ronnie and I wander toward the vendor area, I trip over my own feet and nearly tumble down the escalator. My life flashes before my eyes just as a pair of strong arms wrap around me, pulling me back from the brink of disaster. My rescuer—Daredevil.

Well, a man cosplaying as him at least. I’m so flustered, I don’t catch his name before he vanishes into the crowd. Later, I stumble into him again at a vendor’s booth without his mask and realize he shares a core trait with the masked vigilante. He’s blind.

As he shows me his art, I realize two things. He’s an amazing artist, and I’m dangerously close to breaking my rule. No relationships. I can’t risk the pain again.

Available April 22!

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Chapter One

Fandom conventions should have an introvert recovery room, a quiet space to recharge before diving into the chaos and excitement.

It’s taking all my effort to smile and nod along to the animated discussion with Ginger and Vicky as we pass through the security entrance. They’re discussing the best actor for the lead character in the Space Vendetta Series while we filter through the growing crowd inside the convention center. It’s overwhelming, and we haven’t even been here twenty minutes.

I really need time to adjust, to steady myself. My head is spinning with all the people, the commotion, the noise. I could go back to the hotel room I’m sharing with Ronnie and take a few minutes to collect my bearings.

No, damn it.

I’m here. I’m doing this.

After months of planning and cajoling from the other fangirls, I’ve made it to a convention. We all agreed Philly would be the place our little online group finally meet in person. I love my fellow fangirls, but for an anxious introvert, this is way outside my comfort zone.

I square my shoulders and fish the specially designed earplugs out of my purse. They take the edge off the noise and let me breathe when I’m in public. A genius invention. Never leave home without them.

“What are those?” Ginger asks, noting the little silver rings sitting comfortably in my ears.

“They’re called Loops.” I gesture to the crowd, growing by the moment as people enter the convention. “They dull the noise so I can keep my sanity.”

“Yeah, this can be a lot.” Ginger’s expression softens. “If you need a break, we can find a quiet spot.”

The noise eases around me, and my nerves slowly find a steady state.

I shake my head. “Thanks. I’m good now.”

“Can you still hear me with those things?”

“Yeah. They filter out loud noises, but I’m able to have a conversation with no problem.”

“Cool. I’ll have to check them out.”

“What are you two talking about?” Beth worms her way into the conversation the moment we come to a stop beside the Pokémon stand where she’s waiting for us.

“Just trying to get a plan of attack.” Ginger redirects the topic, and I shoot her a grateful look. “I know some of us have photo ops and autograph signings today.”

I drop my gaze to the floor. While I love a lot of the actors attending this con, I don’t have extra cash to splurge on photos and autographs. I’d rather spend my money supporting local artists selling their wares.

“Jen and Madre will be hanging out in the signing area today.” Ginger pulls a map from her bag as she discusses the plan of attack. “We have the group chat. Just check in around one, and we’ll see where everyone is.”

“I don’t think Jessica heard you.” Beth points at me and then to her ears.

Irritation bites at me. “I heard everything. Thanks.” I plaster on a fake smile and glance at my phone where a notification appears. It’s hard to ignore the way she burrows under my skin. “Ronnie is waiting for me by the escalator. I’ll catch you guys later.”

Beth, known as MistressViper in the fangirl community, has a snarky, sarcastic humor and is often a bully. I honestly don’t think she has a filter. I try to give her a wide berth and not take her comments to heart. She has moments of kindness, but they’re few and far between. Ginger seems to balance her out well.

Meeting Beth in person seems to have added fuel to her fire. I don’t know who peed in her cereal today, but she’s on the warpath and it isn’t even ten o’clock. I have no interest in sticking around to find out why.

As I make my way toward the far end of the room, another text comes through.

GINGER: Don’t worry about Beth. She had a run-in with a security guard this morning and it put her in a mood.

I chuckle and type out a response.

ME: Did she take a swing at him?

GINGER: No, but I thought there might be fireworks. *flame emoji*

I can picture Beth’s death glare at my inelegant snort laugh.

“There you are!” Ronnie tosses her black curls over her shoulder and fixes a bra strap peeking out from beneath the Space Vendetta tee she’s sporting. “Sorry I bailed on you this morning, but I had to run to the Reading Market Terminal. They have the most amazing pastries!”

“That sounds delicious.”

“Here, I got you a Danish.” She hands me a small brown paper bag.

“Thanks.” I tuck it into my purse for later.

“You’re never going to believe this.” Ronnie’s eyes glitter with unrestrained excitement as we head toward the line forming by the escalator. “This morning, I saw a post from Michael DeHart saying he’ll be signing new copies of the latest Space Vendetta novel all day.” She squeals with delight, and I swear there are hearts floating in her eyes.

“Girl, I’ve read every book, watched every film and interview…I am obsessed with Space Vendetta.” She presses a hand to her pink cheek.

“Who’s Michael DeHart?” I’m unfamiliar with the name. “I’ve only watched the movies, though I know they’re based on books.”

Ronnie gapes at me, blue eyes wide. “He’s the creator of the Space Vendetta universe! A true genius.” She launches into the history of Space Vendetta, and despite her passion, I’m completely lost.

I may be part of the Space Vendetta fandom, but it’s purely coincidental. I enjoy the films. I dabble in the fan fiction. That’s about it. I stumbled into the online fangirl group by accident, and they welcomed me without question. So, I stuck around.

While Ronnie chatters, we pause at the top of the escalator, joining the crowd and stepping onto the mechanical death trap. I hate these things. Ronnie pushes forward, paving a path in the way only a single-minded, determined curvy goddess can.

I hesitate at the top, and when I take a step, my shoe catches the edge of the metal guard. I pitch forward, my breath whooshing out as I nearly tumble into the line of attendees to create a domino collision down the escalator.

I brace for impact, but a solid, warm body pulls me back. I manage to right myself and lean against the railing.

“Th-thank you,” I sputter, breathless, my heart racing a mile a minute. I press a hand to my chest as the warmth disappears, replaced by the subtle, spicy scent of men’s cologne.

“You’re welcome.”

I turn toward my rescuer and stifle a laugh. A man dressed as Daredevil.

“Those things are dangerous,” he says, gesturing to the escalator. “The stairs may be a safer option.”

“I agree completely.”

“Are you okay?” He inclines his head, but it’s disconcerting because of his mask—I can’t see his eyes or half his face. His voice is warm and soothing though.

Somehow, I nod. My heart isn’t racing from fear anymore. It’s shifted rhythm to something more alluring and unexpected.

“You just nodded, didn’t you?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” I blink. “Sorry.”

I mentally kick myself. I’m working on becoming more articulate with my needs and not assuming people can read my moods and thoughts. It’s a process.

“No apology needed.” He bows with a flourish. “I’m glad you’re okay. Enjoy the convention.”

“Thanks,” I say before taking my chances with the escalator. When I turn back, Daredevil is gone.

I curse myself when I realize I didn’t even ask his name.

At the bottom, Ronnie is waiting for me. “Oh my God—I saw the whole thing. Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.” I fall into step beside her, looking back for another glimpse of my hero.

“Good thing Daredevil came to your rescue.” Ronnie sighs. “There’s something about a man in a mask, isn’t there?”

My vision fills with the masked vigilante, and I have to agree. I’ve always been partial to those characters, the ones who hide their faces, who cling to the shadows. They don’t do it for recognition or glory. They do it because they want to help people and right wrongs.

“Yeah. There is.” I readjust the earplug until the noise around us has faded again.

“Maybe you’ll run into him again.” Ronnie nudges me. “Did you get his number?”

I shake my head and again curse myself for it before verbalizing my response. “No. I didn’t even get his name.”

“Well, in a getup like that, he’ll be easy to spot.” She winks. “We’ll find him.”

“What if he doesn’t want to be found?” I murmur the question more to myself than to her.

“Honey, he’s wearing a red bodysuit. Trust me, he wants to be seen in this crowd.”

“If he were Deadpool, I’d agree.” I scan the crowd as we enter the vendor area. “But we’re talking about Daredevil.”

“Look, girl, if he doesn’t come looking for you, then he’s blind. You’re a knockout!” She huffs and rolls her eyes. “Men.”

My face heats at her statement. I’ve never thought of myself as a knockout, but with girl-next-door blonde ringlets and blue eyes, I’m passably cute. Obviously not enough to tempt a man, but looks aren’t everything, right? Personality makes up for it.

If only I could let that part shine through.

I pull myself together and weave into the crowd beside Ronnie, who commands presence with every step. She’s a force of nature, and part of me is glad she decided to come with me on this adventure.

“First time at a con?” Ronnie asks, looking at a booth full of Funko Pop! figurines.

“What gave it away?” I laugh.

“Nothing gave it away.” She pauses. “I can tell you’re overwhelmed by the crowd.”

“A little.” I sidestep a passing cosplayer whose wings nearly clip my shoulder. “I’m working through it.”

“Well, if you need a break, let me know.”

“I appreciate it.” I rest my hand on her arm, then retrieve a map from my bag. “Where’s that author’s booth?”

Ronnie’s eyes sparkle. “I think it’s on the other side of the room.”

“Let’s head that way then.” I link my arm through hers, and we make our way down the aisle, perusing booths and admiring cosplays along the way. Her steady presence allows me to ground myself.

Even though we’d never met before this weekend, these fangirls are giving me a safe opportunity to venture outside of my comfort zone. Aside from the escalator trying to kill me, I’m glad I came. Who knows what else will happen?

I’d normally be scared of that unknown, but honestly, after my run-in with Daredevil, I find myself eagerly scanning the crowd for the masked vigilante. I’m determined to get his name…if I can find him.

If I don’t psych myself out in the process…damn my brain.

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If you’re curious about Beth’s fate, then you’re in luck, The Bodyguard releases June 24th.