Kaylene Winter's Blog

Red-Eye Rendezvous is finally here and this story has my whole heart.

If you’ve been with me for a while, you already know how much I love a friends-to-lovers romance. Especially when two people build a life side by side, share everything, show up for each other through every version of themselves… and still avoid the one truth sitting right in front of them.

Skylar and Zachary have been stubbornly avoiding the obvious for fifteen years.

You met Sky in Hushed Harmony. She’s a brilliant, jaded woman who always thinks three steps ahead. What she’s not good at is letting herself want something without a guarantee.

Zach has always been there through thick and thin. Longing and waiting, but never pushing past the hard line she drew.

Let’s start there…

This story starts when they’re in law school together. One last night in a crowded Irish pub with their best friends on the edge of everything changing. Think of one of my favorite 80’s movies. Definite St Elmo’s Fire vibe.

From there, we take them to Prague.

A castle. A wedding. Forced proximity on a private jet, and a Disney princess wedding with the friend group who’ve watched these two circle each other for years.

Things unravel quickly in the best way.

I had so much fun writing this quick, immersive weekend read. High emotion. Sizzling heat. A lot of tension finally breaking all at once.

Get it here!

Happy reading,

Kaylene

The post RED-EYE RENDEZVOUS RELEASE DAY!! appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Happy spring!

I had way too much fun writing this.

Red-Eye Rendezvous is what happens when two people who’ve wanted each other for fifteen years end up alone on a private jet with nowhere to hide.

It starts in New Haven, then spreads to Seattle, New York and Dubai.

Until one flight to Prague changes everything.

There’s a wedding, a castle, a group of friends who saw this coming for years. Once these two finally give in, they don’t stop.

At all.

You’ve already met Skylar in Hushed Harmony. Smart. Controlled. Unshakeable.

Zach is the one person who’s always seen straight through her.

If you love:

friends who should have figured it out years agoforced proximity with no escapeSexual tension that finally snaps

This one is going to hit.

Don’t believe me? Here’s a little excerpt to change your mind…

Prologue – Skylar
Fifteen Years Ago

Zachary Bennett’s knee rests alongside mine under the table.

Not by accident. Or coincidence.

I make a conscious decision not to move away. Sure, I could pretend it means nothing, but my choice to stay put settles agreeably inside my bones.

He’s shooting his shot. Or, I’m shooting mine.

Finally.

Doesn’t matter if it’s the last Thursday we’ll all be together. On a night where every laugh lands a little sharper because we’re about to scatter to different destinations. Tonight’s about living our best law school life one last time before we go.

It’s bittersweet. I’m going to miss my friends. At the same time, I’ve longed for this moment for years.

Duffy’s, an old New Haven Irish pub, is packed wall to wall with law students burning off unbearable pressure. Most of us wear the same uniform of hoodies layered under worn jackets. Denim rubbed pale at the knees. Scuffed boots crunching peanuts on a floor slick with beer.

The jukebox plays classic rock songs everyone half-knows. Laughter ricochets off wood-paneled walls darkened by decades of handprints. Duffy’s smells like hops and fryer oil, and is characteristically loud and insistent.

This place refuses to let us leave quietly.

Julian Hart sprawls on the bench, long legs fully stretched, one arm slung along the back. His blond hair sticks up in defiant directions. He’s always been large in every sense of the word. Big man. Boisterous laugh. Ginormous opinions. Huge presence.

He pulls people into orbit without trying.

Across from him, his girlfriend, Marisol Vega rests on her forearms. Black jeans hug her long legs, a battered leather jacket is crumpled beside her. Her startling blue eyes miss nothing. Marisol arrived at Yale with intention to kick ass and never pretended otherwise.

Irving Brooks sits to my left, compact and composed, nursing his beer with thoughtful patience. Irv listens more than he speaks. He always has. He sees patterns before anyone else names them, then waits to see whether the rest of us catch up. Usually with great aplomb.

Zach’s to my right, wearing his usual dark sweater, worn jeans and sneakers scuffed at the toes. His black hair falls forward, and he constantly pushes it back with two fingers without thinking. He’s always calm. Even now, surrounded by noise and endings. The man carries himself like someone who understands how the world works without even trying.

As for me, I’m always trying to fit in with my cool friends. Intense and a tad neurotic, I try to disguise this fact by cultivating a polished, refined demeanor. Unfortunately, I’m rarely successful. Mostly because I have a hard time containing my expressions if I’m annoyed.

In any case, we all became best friends by accident.

First semester, first week, five of us ended up trapped in the same 1L study group by a scheduling mishap and mutual exhaustion. Torts on Monday mornings. Contracts on Tuesdays. Civ Pro looming Wednesday afternoon.

Julian filled the silence with bravado. Marisol challenged every assumption. Irving spoke once everyone else ran out of air. Zach listened. I asked questions nobody wanted to ask out loud.

Somehow, we clicked and our friendship has been the best thing about law school, at least for me.

Together the five of us have survived oral arguments and panic attacks during legal writing deadlines, We’ve passed course outlines back and forth with coffee rings stamped along the margins. One night during second year, the power went out in the library during a storm and we defiantly finished studying by phone light, laughing harder than the situation deserved.

Above all, we’ve consistently chosen each other over the grind.

These four people are my best friends for life and I love them dearly, despite their flaws.

Julian’s hyper attention to detail drives me nuts. Marisol us ultra snarky when a deadline looms. Irving frustratingly disappears into thought for thirty minutes then returns with brilliant clarity to leave us all in the dust. Zach tedious steadiness, no matter how stressful the situation, is hard to live up to.

No matter what, they’re my de facto family.

I look around at all of them while my knee stays molded to Zach’s.

I don’t move. He doesn’t either.

Julian lifts his glass first. “Last Thursday. After this, we’re doomed to a life of full-time adulting.”

“Pretending to be adults.” Marisol clinks her glass to his with deliberate ceremony.

Irving lifts his beer in a small salute. “Speak for yourself.”

Zach and I hold our beers up as well. The familiar laughter of my best friends knocks something in my chest. This moment between this exact constellation of people will never exist again.

“One more round.” Julian thumps the table, rattling our drinks. “We need a toast to whatever comes next.”

The bartender knows us well and passes us fresh pints of Guinness without asking. Foam settles. Condensation runs down the glass. I take a sip and let the bitter taste coat my tongue.

Conversation drifts easily, as it always does with us. Tonight, mostly focused on the dread of bar exam prep. Apartments. New jobs. The quiet terror of being set loose in the world without a syllabus.

Julian and Marisol speak about New York with confidence, certain they’ll thrive there as a couple. Zach will be there too, even if he hasn’t fully committed yet. Irving’s future points west, tech deals and startups in San Francisco and Silicon Valley. Seattle waits for me, quieter and farther away, chosen on purpose.

Zach’s knee angles a fraction harder against mine.

“You’re quiet,” he says, low enough for only me.

“Taking it in.”

“Smart.”

I smile. “Habit.”

His gaze lingers, not heated or hungry. Present. Steady. Giving nothing away. Attention generous enough to blur lines without crossing any.

Admittedly, even if I can’t relate, his demeanor is one of the things I adore most about him. How careful he is. Deliberate.

It’s also maddening. I’m never quite sure where I stand.

I think of growing up in my parents’ house, filled with drama and voices sharpened like scythes during the constant fights. Money made everything louder. Eventually, lawyers turned love into leverage and promises broke under scrutiny. During their divorce, I learned early how easily permanence fractures.

I’m returning home to Seattle because I want to do things differently. After the bar, I’ll start at Finney Cooper, a prestigious law firm with a great client base. I plan to prove family law doesn’t have to mean scorched earth or victories tallied in damage. It can mean protecting children and keeping something beautiful intact when possible.

Ultimately, I want to be the kind of lawyer who lowers voices instead of escalating them. Who treats families as if they’re worth preserving, even when they’re breaking apart.

Julian slaps the table again. “We’re never going to be together as students again.” His grin falters for half a beat before he recovers. “We should do something memorable.”

“Define memorable.” Marisol arches a brow.

Irving shakes his head. “Nothing good will come of this.”

“Smoke break.” Julian ignores him.

Marisol squints. “None of us smoke.”

“Metaphorical.”

And so we all spill onto the sidewalk, breath fogging. Julian and Marisol gallop down the block, hand-in-hand, already bickering about cabs and neighborhood bars we’re about to conquer. Irving lingers long enough to meet my eyes, a quiet smile passing between me then Zach before he turns and follows them without further comment.

The door to Duffy’s swings shut behind us, muting the noise. The quiet is strangely jarring.

“I’m sad this is ending.” I turn toward him as we amble behind.

He nods. “Well, everything runs its course, so they say.”

“Yeah, well. I hate endings.” I tug my jacket closed around myself.

“Me too.”

We stop under a streetlight. He faces me fully, hands in his pockets. I’ve known this man for three years. The emotions I’ve kept hidden are more dangerous tonight than ever before.

“You’re going to be incredible.” He smiles.

“So are you.”

Silence settles between us. Weighted. Honest.

“We won’t have this anymore.” I drag the toe of my boot through grit on the sidewalk, watching the pale line vanish almost as soon as it appears. “Study sessions. Random dinners. Nights here at the pub.”

Julian’s laugh floats from farther up the block, unchecked. Marisol’s gleeful cackle cuts through it. Irving lifts an arm and flags a cab without missing a beat.

“No. We won’t.” Zach steps closer. Enough to narrow the night to what stands between us.

I look up. His attention holds mine. Steady. Unreadable. Refusing to offer permission or retreat.

Until, a kiss lands firm and exact, stealing my breath before I can prepare for it. His hand settles at my waist. Not tentative or urgent. Authoritative. He holds me in place to keep me anchored.

My balance settles and my lips answer without thinking, opening and letting it deepen. My fingers twist into the fabric of his hoodie, gathering it tight. His mouth moves with mine, control loosened by restraint finally released. The years between this moment and the day we met dissolve under desire and heat.

Time stretches without permission. My body lines up with his, instinct taking over where caution usually lives. Nothing about this is borrowed or reckless. Our kiss carries familiarity layered with something new.

Something chosen.

He draws back only enough to breathe. His forehead rests on my temple but his hand stays locked at my waist. His thumb nudges once. Deliberate. A signal meant to be remembered.

“Cab’s here,” Julian calls, snapping us back to reality.

Marisol whistles.

Zach releases me and reaches for my hand, fingers closing around mine without pause.

We jog to catch up, laughter breaking free as we reach them. Julian slings an arm around Zach’s shoulders. Marisol loops her arm through mine. We pile in the cab, knees knocking, coats brushing, breath uneven. Irving scoots over to make room.

Julian names the next bar, which is fairly close. Marisol agrees. Irving nods. Once the door shuts, the driver pulls out and the city of New Haven blurs past the windows.

Zach repositions so his leg crowds mine, stupidly intentional now. His arm snakes along the back of the seat, close enough to claim space without crowding me overtly. I scoot closer, purposefully, because this could be our last chance to tilt the dynamic between us.

Release day is coming — preorder here .

With love,

Kaylene

The post YOUR FIRST LOOK AT RED-EYE RENDEZVOUS appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Hello beautiful readers,

My heart is so full right now! I have to share two things I’m absolutely bursting over.

First, your response to Hushed Harmony has completely blown me away.

Second, I have a cover reveal for you!

Let’s get into it!

Hushed HarmonyWhat YOU Are Saying…

I’m so pleased that Liam, Linus, and Avonna have taken up permanent residence in your hearts. Honestly? Same. The messages, DMs and reviews make it all worthwhile.

Here’s a taste of what you’re saying:

“Avonna, Linus and Liam’s story will break your heart and slowly put it back together better than it was in the beginning. Filled with beautifully written characters, a storyline filled with love, loss and angst, Kaylene Winter once again just adds so much to this series.”
– Nicki, The Overflowing Bookcase

“This is a truly fabulous read. I loved how the three lives of Avonna, Liam, and Linus intertwined, and the balance of love, loss, courage, and growth felt so natural. The pacing was spot on. I was completely immersed with every chapter.”– Ann L., Goodreads

“This story tugged at all my emotions and many times I felt like I was right there experiencing it with them all. Loved this whole amazing series and I am sad to see it end. This is a must read series.”
– Laura G., Goodreads

“Liam’s story needed to be last. Him and Linus’ history and bringing in Avonna was perfect. The three were beautifully imperfect. The chemistry was good and it was well written.”
– Nicole S., Goodreads

Get Hushed Harmony Now

Red-Eye Rendezvous Cover Reveal

Okay. I have been sitting on this cover for a while and I’m SO ready to finally share it with you.

Red-Eye Rendezvous is the next novella in the Hearts Without Borders series and explores long-term yearning, second chances, and what happens when two adults stop pretending, they don’t feel it. A wedding in Prague and a private jet flight bring fifteen years of tension to the surface. It’s intimate, emotionally charged, and undeniably sexy, where restraint burns off and desire takes over.

✦ THE TROPES ✦

Friends to LoversSecond Chance RomanceHe Fell FirstMutual PiningSlow Burn with HeatLong-Term YearningOne Night Changes EverythingPrivate Jet RomanceDestination Wedding RomanceHigh-Powered ProfessionalsPowerful HeroGuarded HeroineBachelor HeroForced ProximityAlmost LoversShe Walked AwayHe Never Stopped Wanting HerRekindled FlameLove After Ambition

Trust me, you’re going to want to pre-order this one NOW before you hear another word.

Preorder Now!

On a Personal Note

Thank you for being the most incredible community I could have ever dreamed of. Every review, every DM, every message… it fuels everything I write. I cannot wait for you to hold Red Eye Rendezvous in your hands.

Love Always,

Kaylene

The post RED-EYE RENDEZVOUS COVER REVEAL appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Hi everyone,

I’m really excited to finally share this with you.

Hushed Harmony is the final book in the Charming Irish series, and it moves across Dublin, Seattle, and Los Angeles, following three lives pulled together by music, attraction, and timing.

Nothing arrives cleanly here. History lingers. Want complicates things. People carry instincts built for survival. What looks simple from the outside becomes infinitely more complicated once feelings begin to deepen.

Liam, Linus and Avonna’s story lives in rehearsal rooms, hotel rooms, international music festivals, kitchens at midnight. It moves through jealousy, communication, boundaries, and loyalty without sanding down the edges. Every connection matters. Every choice carries weight.

Liam lives on momentum, adrenaline and restraint. Linus understands him in ways even his twin can’t. Avonna senses depth before anyone says it out loud. Watching them circle each other, collide, pull back, and edge closer was electric and fraught and deeply human to write.

The prologue opens with Liam alone in Dublin, convinced he can keep the past contained and the present manageable.

Here’s how it begins.

PrologueLiam – Present Day

I shouldn’t have come.

This was the conversation I had with myself on the flight.

And again, when the taxi crossed river Liffey and the Dublin skyline came into view.

I’ve never been here. This is a city I’ve spent years avoiding. Until a few months ago, my band Fireball had never played in Ireland at all. I made sure of it. Always found a reason to avoid it.

Too many ghosts.

Too much history I wasn’t ready to deal with.

A few days ago, Linus messaged.

Simple. Polite.

If you’re passing through Dublin when you’re done with the European tour, maybe let’s talk.

Fuck.

I’ve spent what seems like a million years chasing the rockstar dream with my twin brother Padraig. Living out of vans. Crashing on floors. Putting out music. Bleeding for every gig. He should’ve walked years ago to follow the girl he loved. He didn’t because I needed him to stay.

I live with the guilt every fucking day.

Our once-close family is a mess. After a car accident, Da turned into a bitter, misogynistic drunk. Gambled the family money. Drove the business into the ground.

Oh, and he nearly killed me.

Apparently, none of this was bad enough for my ma to leave him.

My oldest brother Connor gave up everything when the old man went down. Quit college. Took over the business. Raised the rest of my brothers like a second father. Now he’s the bass player in Less Than Zero, the biggest band in the world.

This summer, he gave Fireball a much-needed boost by giving us the opening time slot on their European tour. We were able to fill in the gaps with a slew of festival gigs.

We killed it, but in true Fireball form our lead singer quit and now we’re back to the fucking drawing board.

Once again, the band is teetering. Padraig won’t say the words, but I see it in his eyes. He’s almost out.

He’s always followed my lead, trusting my determination to make us a success even when he’s wanted something else. Now, we’re back to square one, and he may not have it in him to continue.

I don’t blame him. Without a stable front person, we’re probably chasing something already dead.

The thing is, I’ve poured my entire life into this band and can’t give up on us yet. Abandoning the only steady thing I’ve ever had isn’t an option.

I understand loss. I’ve fucked my way around the world to try to quell the grief. Men. Women. Whatever would help me forget the only person I’ve ever given my heart to.

Linus O’Donnell.

My college love. He managed the band. Believed in us and the music when few others did. We were working our way up when his visa expired and he returned home to Ireland. I didn’t ask him to stay. Fight for him when it counted.

At the time, I convinced myself I didn’t deserve to have love when my brother gave up his.

I’ve purposely stayed away as both penance and punishment.

Until now.

Goddammit.

He’s gonna break me all over again.

I’m a self-destructive motherfucker.

It’s the end of the business day. I’m sitting in a café in the heart of the city, I pretend the coffee in front of me is worth drinking. The place is quiet, warm, and full of people typing or reading or staring at their phones. My leg won’t stop bouncing.

The door opens.

Linus steps in, shakes off the drizzle, looks around and spots me instantly.

He glides through the room like temptation in human form. Button-down snug across his chest, sleeves rolled barely enough to expose the tattooed edges of his forearms. Slacks hug his hips like they are a custom fit. His dark hair is longer now and a thick beard covers his square jaw.

He doesn’t try to be hot. He just is. My cock stiffens the second I see him.

Always has. Always will.

When he catches my eye and smiles, tentative and crooked, my stomach lurches.

I’m done for.

He walks over, calm as ever, and I stand without thinking.

“Liam.”

“Hey.”

He slides into the seat across from me and sets his phone face down on the table. No handshake. No small talk. Unflappable fucking composure, considering.

For an impossibly long moment, neither of us speaks.

Two grown men pretending we don’t remember how it felt to share air like this. To frot our cocks together, desperate and leaking. To love each other so fiercely it nearly destroyed both of us.

He breaks first. “You look tired, so you do.”

“Tour ended yesterday.” I lean back and cross my arms protectively over my chest.

“Youse headin’ home soon?”

“A few days.” I relax a bit. “Padraig’s up at Connor’s new Belfast estate. Helpin’ him get it ready for his famous girlfriend.”

He nods. “Wow. An estate in Belfast. Sounds like a true rockstar move.”

“Aye.” I look out the window. It’s challenging to maintain eye contact with the one man who owns you.

Silence again.

I glance at his hands. Strong. Capable. Once they explored every part of my body. “Congratulations, by the way. Seems like you’re livin’ the dream. Isis Management’s a big deal.”

“Thank you, it’s doing well. Movin’ operations to LA soon.” He doesn’t take his goddamn eyes off me. We both know we’re not here to talk business.

“Avonna seems to be the magic sauce.” I don’t mean to bring up his client and I certainly don’t mean for it to come out so sexual. Like I’m already thinking about her mouth on my cock.

But hell. I am who I am.

The woman is a fucking knockout. Voice like velvet and razorblades. The deep pain behind her eyes makes you wanna fuck her and protect her in the same breath. She played a few of the same festivals with us this summer. Lit the place on fire and walked off stage like it was routine.

She’s unreal. Exactly my type.

“She is.” He smirks. He knows exactly what I’m thinking. “One of the best voices I’ve ever heard.”

“I agree.” I nod too enthusiastically. “She’s special.”

“Aye. Special,” he repeats, eyes fixed on me. “You like her.”

It isn’t a question.

I shift in my seat. “Well sure, she’s talented.”

“Not what I meant.” He leans forward slightly, studying my face.

I stare into my cup. “You want honesty?”

“Always.”

“Yeah. I’m attracted to her. Probably too much. We had some good chats on the road.” I think back to the handful of times she and I had an opportunity to visit in between our sets.

What I don’t say is, other than the man in front of me, she’s the only other person I’ve instantly connected with on an otherworldly level.

“Do you wanna fuck her?” The words hit like a punch.

I choke on the air in my throat. “Jesus, Linus.”

“Do you?” His gaze doesn’t waver.

I drag a hand through my hair. “Fer fuck’s sake. You manage her. She’s magnetic. Gorgeous. I can’t be the only one.”

“There’s a lot more to Avonna than what men want from her.” He clasps his fingers together and leans forward.

Instantly, I feel like a dick. “Uh…I know. I, uh, didn’t mean…”

“Why’d you come here, Liam?” He stares into my eyes.

I hold his gaze, heart pounding. “You asked.”

Emotions flicker across his face. Surprise. Relief. Pain.

I exhale. “We saw each other a few times this summer. You barely spoke to me. When you texted, I couldn’t ignore it this time.”

“Liam. I’ve reached out dozens of times over the years.“ He winces, finally showing his emotional cards. “You ignored every outreach.”

“I know.” I scrub my chin with my fist and cast my eyes down.

His jaw wobbles. “I thought we meant somethin’.”

“We meant everything.”

“You broke me.” He shakes his head, more weary than angry.

The words land heavy. I don’t try to deny them. “I broke me too.”

The quiet between us strains with everything unsaid. Dozens of people bustle past the window. Somewhere behind the counter, an espresso machine hisses.

I meet his eyes. “I’m sorry.”

“For which part?” Linus leans back and folds his arms.

“All of it.”

He shakes his head. “Do you think saying sorry fixes it?”

“No.”

“Then why bother?”

“It’s true.”

He studies me for a long time, like he’s trying to find the man he used to love inside the one sitting across from him. Maybe he regrets inviting me to Dublin. Maybe he hopes I’ll walk out the door and never look back.

Maybe he’s daring me to stay.

“I hated you for givin’ up on us,” he says finally.

“I know.”

He swallows. “Still do, some days.”

“I deserve it.”

He nods. “Aye. You do.”

We sit there for another prolonged silence. Two ghosts in a city filled with history and war and heartbreak far worse than ours. I don’t know what I thought this would be. Closure? Forgiveness? Maybe I wanted proof he and I were once real.

When he finally speaks again, his voice is softer. “You didn’t have to come.”

“I did,” I insist. “You invited me.”

“Curiosity isn’t the same as closure.” He bites his lip, probably to avoid saying more.

I call his bluff. “Well, then, why did you text?”

He holds my gaze for a long time, something shifts behind his expression.

Hurt. Longing. Restraint.

“I wanted to see if there’s anything left.”

“And?” My blood pressure spikes.

He arches an eyebrow. “Still figurin’ it out.”

We both laugh under our breath. It’s not funny, but it’s real.

“I’ve missed this,” I admit.

He looks down. “Which part?”

“All of it.”

This earns me the faintest smile. Gone before I can memorize it.

Outside, the rain gets heavier. Inside, it feels like we’re both teetering at the edge of something we never finished. Neither of us moves to leave. Neither of us asks for more coffee.

We sit here in a buffalo stance. Two versions of the same wound.

I shouldn’t have come.

But, realistically, I never had a choice

Linus thankfully changes the subject. “So. How’s Padraig?”

I glance out the window. “Same. One foot in, one foot gone. He swears he’s quittin’ every six months, but he never does.”

“Still loyal.”

“Still pissed.”

“At you?”

I shake my head. “At himself.”

Linus watches me, unreadable. I go on. “He had everything once. A great love. Someone to grow old with. Now he’s only got me and a rockstar dream he never wanted.”

“Not true. He always intended on doing this with you.” He nearly reaches for my hand, but visibly restrains himself.

“It’s complicated,” I concede. “He loves makin’ music with me but doesn’t enjoy the rest of it. The grind. The instability. We’ve lost three singers. Koko was the best of them. She lasted the longest.”

Linus tilts his head. “So, it’s true? Is she really gone?”

“Yep. Left after the last show.” I wince. “Got a solo deal.”

“Timing is terrible. You’re finally on the mainstream charts.” Linus furrows his brow.

“Yeah, well, she wants her own thing. Said the band didn’t feel sustainable.”

“Is it?”

I let out a bitter laugh. “Depends who you ask. To me, Fireball is all I’ve dreamed of. To Padraig, it’s all he’s got. Truthfully, we’re taking a short break to regroup.”

Linus nods slowly. “Wow. Heavy.”

“Yeah.”

“Will he walk away?”

“Ach, no. Probably not on his own accord.” I keep my eyes fixed on Linus’ strong hands before I flick my eyes up to his. “Maybe I should let him.”

He doesn’t answer. He doesn’t have to.

Then he says, carefully, “So you’re in Dublin to patch holes.”

I exhale. “Aye. I suppose I am.”

The shift is subtle, but I feel it. The weight of everything unsaid pulls the air tighter between us.

Things we didn’t finish. Lingering feelings.

I remember the last time I touched him. Boarding pass in his hand. My heart clogged with grief. The frantic way he kissed me. Held me so tightly like he never wanted to let go.

Now we’re here. The past bleeding forward, asking if we still matter.

We do.

God, we do.

I feel the tether between us. Tenser than it has any right to be.

He finishes his coffee and leans back. “I’m a few blocks away.”

I nod.

He doesn’t say come over. He stands, trusting I’ll follow.

I do.

We walk without touching. Like our bodies are afraid of remembering too fast.

By the time we get to his building, I don’t know if I want to kiss him or punch him.

Maybe both.

He opens the door, steps aside to let me in.

I cross the threshold and feel it. The weight of the years. Breath catching before something breaks.

I turn toward him.

Neither of us speaks.

It’s not awkward.

It’s inevitable.

I love Liam, Linus, and Avonna deeply, and I cannot wait for you to meet them together.

Release day is coming right up, preorder here!

With love,

Kaylene

The post A FIRST LOOK AT HUSHED HARMONY appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

As I look back on everything we’ve done together this past year, I’m a little overwhelmed in the best way. Between steamy new releases, unforgettable signings, Phalen milestones, and a community that keeps showing up in the most amazing ways, I just want to say thank you.

You’ve made 2025 feel like a dream. Here’s a little look at what we’ve accomplished (together).

New Releases You Helped Bring to Life

My biggest publishing year ever, with 5 original stories for you!

Hope & Harmony . A star-studded anthology I conceived and curated, celebrating love and music, benefitting MusiCares, and featuring some of the biggest names in romance. Watching this book come to life with 14 original stories was a true full-circle moment. Wistful Whispers . Seamus McGloughlin’s explosive, forbidden reverse age-gap love story with so much heat I had to fan myself while writing. Boarding Pass . The dreamy, no-itinerary, high-heat novella set in Paris which launched my Hearts Without Borders travel novella series. (Miles deserved a Paris moment.) Forever Flames . Padraig’s aching second-chance romance, finally bringing Fireball to life, reconnected him with his first love, and reminding us that some flames never die. First Class Fling . Revisiting the Delgado family, this time little sister Rosa meets a handsome stranger in first class on her way to Barcelona leading to secrets, heat, and one very unexpected long-haul love.…and of course we can’t forget about the newest edition The Hate to Love You Standalones now have their own box set!

Book Events & Signing Tour Stops

This year I got to see you in person in so many cities, and it meant everything. Huge thanks to:

Wild & Windy West (Phoenix)

Hot & Steamy in the PNW (Vancouver)

Violet Crown (Austin)

Love N Vegas (Las Vegas)

I laughed with you, hugged you, signed books, fangirled with fellow authors, and came home every time more inspired than before.

Big Milestones

ENDLESS Turned 5: Can you believe it?  We celebrated 5 YEARS since I published ENDLESS, where my writing journey and the Less Than Zero universe began!Launched Black Covers for The Charming Irish paperbacks. God I love these moody, bold, shamrock beauties, they’re perfect for your shelfLaunched my Online Store . Willow worked her ass off and we opened my direct shop so you can buy signed books, audiobooks, discreet covers, and more straight from mePhalen! Oh, and Phalen (my fluffy Pomsky sidekick) turned ONE and attended his first rock concert. Naturally.What’s Coming Next…

Get ready. Because the final installment of The Charming Irish is nearly here and it’s going to blow your mind.

Hushed Harmony is a steamy, emotional, MMF polyamorous triad featuring Liam McGloughlin, his past, his future, and the love story you never saw coming. There are secrets. Fireworks. High-stakes choices. The kind of romantic payoff will wreck you in the best way.

It’s not just a book, it’s the final chord in a saga about family, identity, and finding love on your own terms.

You’re not ready for this one.

Here’s to 2026!

To everyone who’s bought a book, written a review, DM’d me, hugged me at a signing, or whispered “I stayed up all night reading…”

Thank you. I do this for you.

Here’s to more stories, more steam, and more unforgettable love.

xo,

Kaylene

The post HAPPIEST OF HOLIDAYS MY DEAR FRIENDS!!! appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Today I finally get to share a peek into Hushed Harmony, my most daring, emotional, layered romance yet.

Readers have been dying for Liam’s story and I knew I needed to do something honest, raw, tender, and unforgettable for the most complicated McGloughlin brother.

Hushed Harmony spans decades of love, desire, heartbreak, reunion, and every messy choice we make on the way to real connection. It follows Liam, Linus, and Avonna as they learn how to build a life with passion, truth, trust, and a bond that refuses to fit inside a simple box.

Their story shifts, deepens, pulls apart, and comes back stronger. It asks big questions about love and loyalty. It gives even bigger answers.

This world holds music, travel, heat, devotion, and the kind of intimacy that only exists when three souls choose each other fully.

I’m so excited to share an excerpt with you today. Settle in. Take a breath. Get ready to fall for a love story you have never read before.

Now, let’s step into Hushed Harmony…

Liam

Holy fuck, life’s pretty fuckin’ great on the other side.

This is the first tour we’ve ever had with a full crew and a bus driver.

It’s fucking luxury and I don’t ever want to go back to slummin’ it.

The sun’s still high when we leave the backstage tent. Hot, heavy air clings to my skin, and my ears are already ringing from the last set we caught.

Germany throws a proper festival. Six stages. Smoke cannons, drone cams, girls in mesh bodysuits and guys covered in glitter and leather. Every ten feet someone hands us a drink or a flyer or a branded condom.

Me and Padraig keep our heads low under baseball hats. No one bothers us. Not yet.

We’ve played a few of these now, opening for LTZ across Europe, but this one feels bigger. Louder. A little more chaotic.

The best part about it is the down time. There’s no frenzy to pack up, drive to the next town and do it all again. We’re able to check out other music, which is how we’re spending the next few hours. As we navigate through the crowd, two girls with airbrush tattoos are dancing barefoot next to a line of food trucks.

“It’s weird, isn’t it?” My stomach growls at the smell of fried onions and garlic. “Riding LTZ’s coattails. Opening for them. Watching Connor become a god.”

Padraig smiles faintly. “Not weird. Well-deserved.”

“Yeah, but still. It’s a trip. Feels like yesterday he was hauling drywall to pay our tuition. Now he’s dating fucking America’s sweetheart.” I’m not envious, exactly.

Padraig nods but he seems a million miles away. “Ronni’s cool.”

I glance over at him, walking beside me like he has since we were in diapers. Same gait, same rhythm. Quieter now. Sadder. The lines around his mouth are deeper.

So many years have passed and he’s still not over Stevie. When he’s in a mood like this, it’s best not to push. To be fair, he doesn’t push me either.

I’m not over Linus either. I have so many regrets at how I handled things and now it’s too late. I’m pretty good at hiding it, though. There’s a long trail of people I’ve hooked up with and discarded. Meaningless fucks leaving me more and more empty with each passing day.

“He’s not changed, has he?”

Padraig kicks a pebble. “Not where it counts.”

“You heard anything else from Koko?”

My brother frowns. “No, but we both know this is her last run. When we’re done with the LTZ shows, she’ll leave.”

God, it pisses me off. We’re having the biggest swing of momentum in our career and we’ll likely be back to square one.

“New album. Bigger crowds. More money and better tours,” I grouse. “She picks now to ditch us? What are we gonna do with no fucking singer?”

“Dar, stop.” Padraig chuffs out a sigh. “She was never staying. We both knew it and we’ve buried our heads in the sand.”

He’s right and while part of me is relieved, the other exhausted. It seems like we can never catch a goddamn break.

The music from the nearby stage shifts. Something acoustic, but not soft. Deep. It’s a woman’s voice. Low, smooth, aching.

Every single one of my hairs stand on end. I turn toward the sound. So does Padraig.

Hers is not the kind of voice you forget. Dusty velvet. Pain polished into pearl. She’s not trying to impress anyone, it’s more like she’s cut herself open to let people see inside.

Without speaking, we change course.

As we approach the stage, she’s lit by amber stage lights, barefoot on a patterned rug. Wavy blondish hair, loose around her shoulders. Her fingers wrap the neck of her guitar like she’s conjuring the chords rather than playing them.

Her dress clings to her hips, loose and easy, but there’s a kind of fire in the way she plays. Controlled. Smoldering. I’ve never seen anything so innocent and yet dirty at the same time.

“Fuck,” Padraig whispers.

I can’t speak. Or take my eyes off her. She performs like she’s lived in hell and made it a home. No frills. No dancers. The crowd is fully locked in.

The sign on the banner behind her reads: Avonna.

I repeat it in my head. Avonna.

First Class Fling is On Sale 12/18 – 12/22

Get it here!

Love,

Kaylene

The post THREE HEARTS. ONE FUTURE. YOUR FIRST LOOK AT HUSHED HARMONY appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

I’ve been blown away by the early love for First Class Fling. Messages, DMs, and emails have been pouring in, and I can’t stop smiling.

This story came from a place where I wanted to convey joy, escape, passion, and great food, so seeing you connect with Rosa and Santiago in such a big way means everything.

I want to share a few early reactions. They’re funny, heartfelt, spicy, and full of the exact energy I hoped this novella would bring into your lives. Every message reminds me why I write romance.

Connection. Emotion. Heat. Hope.

If you’ve already devoured this one, thank you. If you’re planning to read it soon, I can’t wait to hear your thoughts. Your support keeps these travel novellas alive.

Now, enjoy what readers are saying (and feel free to leave your own review if the mood takes you!)…

A SPECIAL SALE FOR MY CHARMING IRISH READERS

If you’ve been waiting to dive into the McGloughlin brothers before Liam’s book arrives, this is the perfect moment. Tender Temptation, the first book in my Charming Irish series, is only 99 cents from December 11–15.

This story introduces you to Cillian, the troubled middle McGloughlin brother and sets up the world where the five youngest brothers collide, clash, love, and fight hard for the people who matter.

As we get closer to Liam’s story, it’s the best way to meet the family and fall for every handsome McGloughlin man before the emotional chaos begins.

If you’re new to this world, you’re in for a ride.

Grab it while the sale is live and get caught up on these hot, Irish brothers!

Happy reading,

Kaylene

The post READERS ARE FALLING HARD FOR FIRST CLASS FLING appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

I’m so excited to tell you my newest Hearts Without Borders novella, First Class Fling, is finally out in the world.

I can’t wait for you to meet Rosa and Santiago in all their fire, depth, and delicious chemistry. This little book carries so much joy for me. It’s sexy, emotional, indulgent, tender, and filled with food, wine, travel, and two people who collide in first class and discover a once-in-a-lifetime connection.

If you’ve loved any of my couples who fall fast, love hard, and refuse to let fear get in the way, you’ll fall for these two. Rosa’s hardworking, passionate about her family’s restaurant, and overdue for real rest. Santiago’s a sommelier who sold his company and now finally has space to breathe, explore, and open his heart.

 

Put them side by side at ten thousand feet, pour a little wine, give them one month in Spain, and sparks fly. Trust me, they burn hot.

Releasing these shorter travel romances has become one of my favorite things. I get to create tiny escapes for you, packed with big emotion and even bigger heat. I’m so grateful for everyone who’s supported these novellas. Every message, preorder, review, share, and DM reminds me why I love writing romance. I’m sending a huge thank you to everyone who helped bring this story to life. My editors, ARC team, early readers, travel friends, fellow food lovers, and the readers who always show up for my stories.

None of this happens without you.

If you grab the book today, it helps push First Class Fling into the Amazon charts, which gives Rosa and Santiago a real chance to find new readers. Early sales matter so much for indie romance, and your support means the world to me. If you enjoy it, leaving a review on Amazon or Goodreads is one of the best ways to help an author you love.

I hope this story sweeps you away, fills your heart, and gives you a mini vacation wherever you are.

Thank you for being here with me on release day!

Love,

Kaylene

The post FIRST CLASS FLING IS LIVE! appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Hi beautiful readers,

I am so excited to share something special with you today.

My new novella, First Class Fling, is a swoony, sensual, food-driven story inspired by my love of Spain, travel, and romance.

This story takes us to Barcelona, through wineries, quiet plazas, long train rides, unforgettable meals, and a whirlwind love story.

If you read Wistful Whispers, you’ll remember Rosa. She runs her family’s restaurant in Tacoma with her whole heart and no real pause for herself. In this novella, she finally takes the break her family begged her to take. On her flight to Barcelona, she meets Santiago, a sommelier who carries as much passion for wine as she carries for food.

Their spark starts at ten thousand feet and turns into something neither tries to resist.

This book is my love letter to Spain, food, long conversations, stolen kisses, and to every woman who has ever given her entire life to everyone else.

Rosa deserved joy. Santiago knew how to give it.

I hope you fall for them as fully as I did writing them.

Here is your exclusive first chapter. Enjoy…

FOREVER FLAMES POST-RELEASE DEAL

Before you go, I have a little surprise.

Forever Flames, Stevie and Padraig’s story in The Charming Irish series, is on a special post-release deal for a very short time.

From November 19 to 21, you can grab it for only 99 cents.

If you’ve been waiting to fall into their world, this is your moment. If you already love the McGloughlin brothers, this price gives you the perfect excuse to dive back in or share the love with a friend.

I can’t wait for you to experience every twist, every emotion, every spark.

XOXO

Kaylene

 

The post YOUR FIRST LOOK AT FIRST CLASS FLING appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Hi my beautiful readers,

It’s here. It’s finally, finally here.

Forever Flames is LIVE.

Padraig and Stevie—a 20-year journey of heartbreak, hope, and the kind of love that refuses to die.

You’ve caught glimpses in Tender Temptation, Daring Destiny, and Wistful Whispers.

Now you get the full story. The music, the betrayal, the forever flame they swore would never burn out.

What to expect:

Childhood best friends → loversCollege rock band beginnings → international stardomA devastating breakup → an impossible reunionA romance that never stopped burningSlow-burn to full-blaze with ultra-steamy scenes

Content Warnings with Love

Forever Flames goes deep. It touches addiction, homophobia, family trauma, and the damage silence can cause.

This story isn’t always soft. But it’s real. And it never gives up on love.

Why this book matters:

Writing this one cracked me wide open.

Padraig and Stevie’s love spans decades. It burns, then breaks, then rebuilds, stronger, sharper, more honest.

We’ve always seen Padraig and Liam as the “cool rockstar twins.” Now, we understand why.

This is more than a romance. It’s a reckoning. A restoration. A love letter to chosen family, healing, and second chances that feel earned.

Are you ready to believe in forever again?

👉  GRAB FOREVER FLAMES NOW

👉  SHARE A FAVORITE LINE ON IG + TAG ME

Thank you for being here—for the music, the heartbreak, the hope.

This series has always been about finding light in the darkness.

Padraig and Stevie’s story is that light.

CATCH ME LIVE!

Join me with Lisa & Merrit  on IG Live on Monday, October 13th at 9:00 pm EST

TRYST LIST IS FREE!

From 10/17-10/21, The Tryst List is free in KDP just in time for my appearance at LoveNVegas!

Until next time!

❤️ Kaylene

The post IT’S HERE! FOREVER FLAMES IS LIVE! appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.