Maggie Blackbird

Today, bestselling author Bernadette Marie is guesting. She’s talking about her latest release Secret Admirer Pact, a contemporary romance. Be sure to read my review. And don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway.

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Inspiration for Secret Admirer Pact by Bernadette Marie

As a sucker for a friends to lovers romance, I knew I wanted to make this tale fun and quirky. So, when Wil wants to get the attention of his ex-girlfriend, of course his best friend, Monique, will want to help. Why not write a secret admirer note to stir up some attention.

The allure of a secret admirer is a big one. Most people find it flattering when someone admires them from afar. Writing a secret admirer note gives you the freedom to lay out your feelings without identifying yourself. Of course, there is the moment when your identity will no longer be a secret, and there too lies the charm of the moment–and there is great inspiration for a book. Secret admirer notes easily fill many of the literary arc points to a romance novel.

In the case of my book, Secret Admirer Pact, each of them knows who’s writing the notes, but the sentiment is real. It’s hard to write a secret admirer note with falsehoods for someone you care about.

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Title: Secret Admirer Pact
Series: N/A
Author: Bernadette Marie
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 139 pages
Release Date: February 6, 2024
Publisher: 5 Prince Publishing

Blurb: When Will seeks to rekindle a flame with his ex-girlfriend, his best friend Monique reluctantly suggests a plan involving secret admirer notes to divert his ex’s attention. In a surprising turn, Monique finds herself infatuated with her new boss, prompting Will to reciprocate with anonymous tokens of affection. However, as the deceptive game unfolds, both Monique and Will come to realize that the heartfelt sentiments expressed in the secret admirer notes were their own true feelings. So, what happens if the plan works? What happens if it doesn’t

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From my pocket I retrieve a paper napkin with writing on it.

Will-

I’ve been watching you. I think you’re very handsome. I’d love to get to know you.

Love,

Your Secret Admirer

The note has me laughing. It’s written in Monique’s handwriting, and I can’t even imagine why she—

I look back down at the napkin and grin. So this is Monique’s wise idea to get Brandy to notice me? I now have a secret admirer? Am I supposed to leave these little notes around the house?

I can hear Brandy moving around her room. I look at the note again, and consider it.

Instead of taking my coffee mug with me, I set it on the note. She’ll notice that I forgot my coffee, and maybe she’ll see the writing on the napkin. Well, I have nothing to lose with Monique’s little game. Grabbing my messenger bag, I hike it up onto my shoulder and head out to work. As is the norm, my phone rings as I’m leaving my office and heading to lunch.

“So now you’re my secret admirer?” I ask as I answer the phone, knowing Monique is on the other end.

Her laugh filters through and brings me a bit of warmth as I step outside in the cold.

“Why, Will, I have no idea what you’re talking about,” she says on another laugh.

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The blurb got my attention.  Two besties want other people and help each other to win over the people they desire.  The author is new to me and I enjoyed her writing, along with the plot.  It’s a very short read, perfect for Valentine’s Day since the HEA is sweeter than a box of chocolates.

We have Will who wants his ex back.  Then there is Monique who has the hots for her new boss.  Both characters are likable.  Besties since grade seven, they are always there for each other, with a lot of “I love you” whenever they part ways or finish texting that did make me go “hmm” LOL.

I did feel for Monique since what her boss did was unethical.  As for Will and his ex, I saw that one coming and knew why they broke up in the first place.  The texts are cute. The dialogue is snappy and fun.  The author sticks to the plot and never veers off course.

As I said, it’s very short, but worth the read for Valentine’s Day because the author gives readers a great treat at the end.  Do yourself a favour and get a copy.

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Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie writes contemporary romances and believes in Happily Ever After. The married mother of five believes in love at first sight, quick love, and second chances.

An avid martial artist, Bernadette Marie is a certified instructor and holds a third degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. She loves Tai Chi, traveling to Disney parks, and having lunch with friends. When not writing, or running her own publishing house, Bernadette is probably immersed in a Rom Com, from which she will often quote one-liners.

Follow Bernadette: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Tik-Tok | 5 Prince Books

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