Kaylene Winter's Blog

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.

Hi my loves,

You know I’ve always had a soft spot for second-chance romance.

Forever Flames took me all the way back to that sweet, spark-filled beginning when everything felt possible and forever meant forever.

Before it all fell apart…Stevie and Padraig were in it.

Deep. Full of passion, mischief, and the kind of heady connection making you ache for your own first love.

I had so much fun writing this phase of their story. Late-night jam sessions, whispered dreams, and the type of coming-of-age love you think will last forever.

If you’ve ever been in love at the wrong time…

If you’ve ever known someone was yours before you could say it out loud…

Forever Flames is for you.

Here’s a little excerpt to entice you:

“Don’t be an ass.” Padraig laces up his boots. “Let’s go. You might actually enjoy yourself.”

“Doubt it,” Liam drones, sliding on a black beanie.

I take point, leading them down the narrow stairwell of the dorm. The party’s ten blocks off-campus, in a rickety rental. It probably used to be a frat house before it got excommunicated.

Padraig grips my hand as we approach the house. “Thanks for arranging this.”

“No worries. Rumor has it, the lead guitarist once opened for Modest Mouse,” I offer helpfully.

It’s enough to get Liam’s interest, even if he pretends otherwise.

The porch sags under the weight of us. Inside it’s like a dive bar—sticky floors, thrift-store couches shoved against the walls, strands of dying Christmas lights casting everything in a weirdly colorful haze. Bass pulses through the floorboards like a second heartbeat.

Padraig grins and slings his arm casually around my back. His fingers brush my waist. “You sure this isn’t a rave?”

“Wrong kind of bassline.” I lean up for a kiss.

He cups my face and plants one on me in the middle of a room full of strangers. I melt against his chest, content and happy.

Even in a new environment, I’m always comfortable when I’m with the two people I’m closest to in the world. Bailey once asked me how I ever chose Padraig over Liam. Which is funny to me. Obviously, I love them both deeply. Liam burns hot and fast. Even as a kid, he was sharp edges and swagger. Dangerous. Unpredictable.

Padraig, on the other hand, has always been mine. Quieter. Steadier. Persistent. Safe. Our friendship morphed slowly from childhood playmates to best friends.

“For someone who didn’t want to come, he’s diving right in.” Padraig gestures to Liam, who’s in front of the makeshift stage where a girl with ink-black hair is yowling into a mic.

Her voice is scratchy in a way people mistake for edgy. It works, though. The guitarist’s decent. Drummer’s loud and showy, all biceps. Padraig and I hover at the edge of the room. He analyzes the band with the same hyper-focused intensity he uses to ace his exams—or figure out song structures.

“They’re decent.” Padraig rubs his chin.

I nod. “They’ve got a look.”

“A lot of style over substance.” He scrunches up his nose. “I’m not a fan of the arrogance.”

“They’re tight. And confident enough to fill a room like this,” I counter.

“Okay, fair.” Padraig nods, soaking it in.

Liam looks like he wants to be on stage more than he wants to breathe. He takes it all in, scanning the room like it’s a battlefield. Sizing up the soundboard. Calculating what he’d do different.

He wants this. To have his own moment.

Padraig leans down, his breath warm against my ear. “I love to see him inspired. It makes me happy.”

He’d never say it, but I feel it. Something’s cracked open in him too. Pure enthusiasm. Radiating off him like static. He’s not watching, he’s wanting.

Maybe I was wrong earlier. This could be his calling.

God, I’m glad I dragged them here.

“Glad we came?”

He nods. “Yeah. Feels like the start.”

He’s right.

It is.

This is the beginning of everything.

❤️ Kaylene

The post YOUNG LOVE, FIRST TIMES, AND SCORCHING PASSION appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

Hi beautiful readers,

If you’ve read Fearless, you already know Connor. If you’ve devoured the Charming Irish series, you’ve met the rest of the McGloughlin brothers, Cillian, Brennan and Seamus.

You’ve felt the chaos. The loyalty. The heartbreak.

But what about the twins?

Padraig and Liam have always been the mysterious ones. Musicians. Rockstars. Brothers with secrets that no one talks about. Not even at Sunday dinner.

Well, Forever Flames is where everything changes.

This is Padraig’s story. A second-chance, slow-burn, friends-to-lovers romance that stretches across twenty years. It’s messy. Beautiful. Raw. Full of grief, healing, and the kind of love that never dies.

Stevie was his first kiss. First time. First heartbreak. His forever flame.

This book means everything to me. I finally got to show you what shaped these men into who they are while planting the seeds for Hushed Harmony (Liam’s story, coming soon).

Balancing both books nearly broke me, but it also brought the entire McGloughlin family full circle.

Stevie and Padraig’s journey will hopefully punch you in the heart and leave you breathless. They’re soulmates, no question. The only thing in their way is everything.

Are you ready to dive in! For my newsletter readers, here is the first chapter of Forever Flames. It’s emotional, immersive, and sets the tone for the entire book.

Ready to burn?

Kaylene

Chapter 1 – Padraig
Fifteen years prior

Sunlight cuts across the scarred lockers in long strips, exposing scratches and old tape marks like battle wounds.

Down by the library, somebody blasts Lil’ Wayne from their phone. A pack of pimply freshmen argue over some bullshit at the stairwell. A couple of cheerleaders giggle conspiratorially when they emerge from the restroom.

Everything is familiar. It should feel like every other Friday. Except it isn’t and never will be again.

As I contemplate how the hell my life has been completely upended, I lean against Stevie Hayes’ locker with my arms crossed. I tap my toe to a rhythm I don’t recognize at first until I realize it’s one of our songs.

One Connor, Liam, and I wrote a few months ago before the accident.

My phone pings. Liam.

Dar, move your arse.

Fuck it. He can wait a goddamn minute.

Stevie’s late again. Always late. Probably rescuing a freshman who’s lost. Or charming the debate teacher into thinking it’s his idea to let her drop the class.

She’s the kind of girl people sense when she walks into a room. Striking without trying to be. Honey-blonde hair touches her shoulders in messy waves. Her expressive brown eyes always seem like they’re holding something back. Her beauty’s effortless, grounded in raw creativity and emotional depth.

Without her, I’d never have survived these past couple months. I’ll admit it, my longtime crush has turned into something…more.

My phone buzzes again. I don’t bother looking because the doors at the end of the hallway bang open and Stevie barrels toward me. A tiny tornado of torn jeans and stubborn light. Her t-shirt’s knotted at the waist. She sees me and smiles like I’m the only person in the hallway.

Something knocks sideways inside my chest.

She slips between the couples making out next to me and stops in front of her open locker, breathless and grinning. “Seriously, McGloughlin?”

I push off the metal. “Apparently, you need a lesson in security clearance.”

“Security clearance?” She jabs me in the ribs with her books. “You suddenly running some underground locker mafia?”

“Might be a good way to earn a few bucks.” I grab her stuff before she drops it, flipping open her notebook. Her notes are chaos but organized in some random highlighted way. “You crack me up with your color-coding.”

“Fuck you. It helps me think.” Stevie shrugs as she reaches around me to grab her jacket. “Don’t mock the process.”

I hand the notebook back together with my sketchbook she safeguards for me. Her fingers brush mine.

Static. Electricity. Something.

No. Everything.

She’s been my—our—best friend since we were all seven years old. I haven’t told her my feelings have changed but I’m pretty sure she feels the same way.

Liam knows, of course. I don’t need to say a word. We’re telepathic in a way.

I’m not sure he’s happy about this turn of events, though.

“Dar. Let’s fuckin’ go.” Liam’s hoodie is half-zipped. His backpack is slung over one shoulder. His hair’s a mess. Dark mood on full display.

People always say we look exactly alike. We’re twins, so it’s true, but also not so much.

Liam’s a storm. I’m the calm before.

“Nice of you to show up,” Liam mutters, kicking his heel off the bottom of her locker.

Stevie flashes him a too-bright smile. Swings the door shut with her hip like she owns the place. “Aww, you missed me grump-a-lumps.”

“We were supposed to peace out last period,” he directs his comment toward me.

I glance up at him. “I had chemistry.”

“You were going to ditch me?” Stevie rolls her eyes, reaches into her back pocket and pulls out a crinkled letter. “Oh, and by the way. I applied to Wazzu. You’re not getting rid of me yet, Liam.”

His face doesn’t change. Other than the tiniest twitch at the edge of his mouth. He’s not mad at her. He’s mad at the world and how fucked up everything is.

“Congrats,” he sneers.

Undaunted, she turns to me and tugs on my sleeve, eyes shining. “Well?”

“Fuck yeah.” Unlike Liam, my heart fills to the brim. Full of a thousand possibilities I can’t name. “Let’s keep the party going.”

“Can we get outta here?” Liam growls.

Stevie flips him off, loops her arm through mine and drags me toward the doors. He follows, slowly. A shadow trailing at the edge.

Outside, Da’s original McGloughlin Construction truck with the dented fender sits crooked across the white line. This morning, we were pathetically late so it was more of an abandonment than a parking job.

Stevie yanks open the passenger door and climbs in without hesitation. Middle seat. Liam slides into the driver’s seat, slamming the door hard enough to shake the frame. I take my place on the passenger side.

Stevie wiggles to get comfortable, settling back against the seat with my sketchbook jammed between her knees, causing her leg to press against mine. I don’t move. Don’t breathe. When we turn on to our street, she leans forward to adjust the vent. Her vanilla scent surrounds me.

“Mom made spaghetti.” Stevie glances between us. “And brownies. You should come over. Bring the boys.”

“Nah, I’ve got a thing,” Liam scoffs as the truck creaks to a stop in front of our house which is next door to Stevie’s. “Get the fuck out, kids. I’m taking the truck.”

He doesn’t wait for approval. The second our feet hit the ground, Liam peels out, gravel pinging the curb.

Stevie stands beside me, arms around my sketchbook like a shield. She’s not looking at her house. She’s looking at me.

“Dinner?” Her voice tilts. Hopes. “You can draw a bit in peace.”

I’m not letting an opportunity to hang out with her slip by. “Aye. First, I should eat with the lads. I’ll come over after they’re settled.”

“Makes sense.” Stevie abruptly turns toward the steps to her house.

Shit. Three steps and I’m beside her again. “Wait.”

She freezes. Doesn’t speak. Doesn’t run, either.

I catch her wrist. Light. Careful.

She turns halfway and her brown eyes peer up at me. Before I can stop myself, my lips graze hers. Not soft. Or gentle. Every ounce of pent-up sexual frustration I’ve kept at bay is unleashed.

Screw the friend-zone. I want Stevie in the fuck-zone.

My tongue twines with hers. My sketchbook hits the porch with a slap when she wraps her arms around my neck. My hands find her waist, then her back, then up into her hair. Every part of her burns into me.

After a moment, I pull away, barely enough to check in on her. “You good with this?”

“Wow. Padraig. Are you sure?” she pants, pink-cheeked, eyes wide.

“Fuck, yeah I’m sure, Stevie. I’ve been waiting to kiss you forever.” I press my forehead against hers. “Since the day you wore the American flag bikini at the Fourth of July barbecue.”

She laughs. “Four years ago? We were twelve.”

“Well, I’m a slow burner.” I kiss her again. Then I step back. “The faster I check on them, the faster I get back.”

“Okay.” I feel her watching me as I dash up the steps to my house.

Our kiss is buzzing on my lips when I push through the front door. The smell of Ma’s beef and barley stew wafts through the air. Shocking. It’s been weeks since she’s cooked. I didn’t expect her to be home. My stomach growls.

Connor’s on the couch with the remote, one ankle balanced on his knee, eyes flicking between the match on screen. My oldest brother nods when he sees me.

“You good here for a bit?” I keep my voice low. “I was thinking I’d head to Stevie’s. I’ll keep my phone on me. If you need—”

Connor shakes his head, quick. “Nah. Go ahead, take the night off. Ma wanted to cook for the wee ones. Da’s obviously at the hospital.”

“You sure? I’m happy to stay and help out.”

“Aye.” His tired eyes find mine. “Check in later.”

I nod, then head into the kitchen.

Ma’s stew is cooling on the stove, dark and rich. Not able to resist, I ladle out a full bowl, tear off a thick slice of soda bread and wolf it down standing by the sink. It’s perfect. Filling. Familiar.

I rinse the bowl, set it in the drying rack, and grab my hoodie from the back of the chair. When I pass through the living room again, Connor’s fast asleep so I slip out the door to my destination.

The Hayes’ porch light glows soft as a candle against the dark. Stevie opens the door before I can knock. Like she was waiting.

She’s changed into pajama shorts and an oversized navy sweatshirt I’m almost sure used to be mine. Her hair’s up in a messy floof of blonde. Bare feet. No makeup.

The most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen.

“Hey.” She steps aside to let me in.

I walk through like I’ve done a hundred times, pretending my entire world didn’t tilt sideways the second I kissed her.

Her house smells like laundry and brownies and whatever candle her mom always lights after dinner. The TV is on in the living room. I recognize the voices from some British teen show she makes me and Liam watch with her.

We sit close on the couch. Stevie tucks her legs under her, arms looped around her knees. The hem of my sweatshirt falls low on her thighs. I shift beside her. Try not to stare.

Fail.

I know every inch of this room from the crooked family photos to the chipped corner of the coffee table. How her dad’s slippers always end up under the recliner. I know every inch of Stevie too. She bites the inside of her cheek when she’s nervous, like now. Always hums along with the credits, even when she doesn’t realize it.

What I don’t know is how to pretend tonight is the same as any other night.

How can I when the air crackles between us?

“The brothers good?” She leans against me.

“Aye.” My eyes are fixed on the screen. I have no idea what to do next. “Seamus was reading in his bed. Cillian and Brennan were fighting over the Xbox. Nothing new.”

Her hand finds mine. “They’re lucky. Having you.”

“Bollocks. They need my ma. I’m the stand-in until Da gets home from the hospital.” I squeeze her fingers.

“You’re more than that.” Her head tilts up to mine. “You take care of everyone.”

I shift to face her. “I haven’t stopped thinking about earlier.”

“Me either.” She leans forward as her fingers curl into the hem of my shirt.

It starts slow. A kiss meant to ease us into this new skin we’re trying on. Then her hands are in my hair, and my arms are around her waist, pulling her into my lap like she belongs there.

“You kiss like you drum.” She presses her cheek to mine. “Sexy. Fast, loud, a little chaotic.”

Jesus God. My dick fills to capacity.

“I can slow down.” I hover my lips against hers.

Her pussy presses against the hard line of my cock through my jeans, and I have to squeeze my eyes shut not to lose it. Her hands slide under my shirt, fingertips gliding up my ribs. My skin tightens, every nerve lit. “I don’t want you to. Joni’s in her room. Ziggy’s playing video games. My parents are already in bed. They won’t bother to check on us.”

Stevie yanks the sweatshirt over her head, tossing it to the floor without a second thought. Holy fucking shit. I can see the outline of her dusky nipples through her sheer bra.

Good God, man. Do. Not. Come. In. Your. Pants.

“Padraig.” She unhooks her bra behind her back, letting the straps fall from her shoulders. When it drops to the couch, I forget how to breathe.

Her tits are full and high and perfect with those pink buds puckered tightly into little bullets. Unable to stop myself, I cup her breast and drag my thumb across the peak, then duck my head and close my mouth around it. She gasps and grinds her hips against mine, fisting in my hair.

“I’ve wanted this forever,” she mewls. “Haven’t you?”

“Aye.” I crash my mouth to hers.

We’re a mess after that, fumbling with zippers and buttons. Quietly laughing through our clumsiness until things turn desperate again. She shoves her pajama bottoms down, catching her panties halfway around her thighs, then kicks them off completely.

“Holy fuck.” My eyes lock in on her glistening pussy covered by only a wisp of blonde hair.

With only porn to guide me, I kneel between Stevie’s legs and drag my tongue through her folds. She’s delicious. Sweet. Tangy. My tongue explores everywhere, slow and deep until I find her little clit. Experimenting, I suck on it then flick it with the tip of my tongue until she’s panting and shaking. Her thighs clamp around my ears and she moans into the cushion.

“Shhhh—” Her parents might be cool but I don’t want to risk them interrupting the single greatest night of my life.

I manage to shove my jeans and boxers down, grabbing the condom I’ve carried for years. My cock springs free, thick and already leaking. She watches as I tear the wrapper open with shaking fingers and roll it over my length.

Settling between her legs, I guide the tip of my cock to her entrance, pressing in slow and steady.

Her breath catches sharp and I freeze. ”Stevie, are you okay? We can stop…”

“No. Go slow. You know it’s my first time.” She grips my shoulders and urges me on.

“Shit. I’m sorry. It’s mine too.” I hesitate for a second before I push in again.

Gradually. Inch by inch. Her body takes me, tight and trembling. I have to grit my teeth against the need to rut into her. When I’m buried to the hilt, I cage her upper body with my forearms. “You feel…fuck. Stevie, you feel unbelievable.”

“I’m so full. Should you move?” Her nails rake down my back as she shifts her hips, testing the stretch.

Yes. Yes, I should. Careful at first until her quiet moans turn needy. Then faster as her legs hook around me. Her pussy grips my cock on every thrust, wet and hot and fucking perfect.

She comes first, mouth falling open, body arching hard. She says my name like it’s the only word that matters. I follow a second later, hips jerking, cock pulsing deep inside the condom.

We stay tangled together, skin slick, hearts thudding.

No fear.

No holding back anymore.

No pretending we were ever meant for anyone else.

The post FROM FIRST LOVE TO FOREVER FLAMES… appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

If you crave grumpy rock stars, fierce heroines who refuse to back down, and second chances burning hotter the second time around, then it’s time to dive into Connor’s story.

Fearless isn’t only a romance. It’s the spark lighting the fuse for everything to come.

When Connor collides with Ronni, passion and drama roar to life, creating the kind of ride-or-die love no one walks away from. While Connor steals your heart, you’ll also meet the McGloughlin brothers (the Charming Irish) in all their raw, unforgettable glory.

Don’t miss out on the origin story before Forever Flames hits at the end of the year!

From September 18 through September 22, Fearless is completely FREE in eBook form.

This is your backstage pass to the Less Than Zero world. Grab it now, binge it hard, and prepare for Padraig’s book, Forever Flames.

👉 Claim Fearless Free

VIOLET CROWN AUTHOR EVENT

If you’re near Austin this weekend, come see me at the Violet Crown Author Event. I’ll be signing, chatting, and celebrating romance with readers who love a story that makes your pulse race.

Rock on,

Kaylene

The post FEARLESS IS FREE appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.

It’s finally here!

Boarding Pass is out in the world and I couldn’t be more excited to share Miles and Sophie’s whirlwind romance with you.

You might remember Miles Stojanović, the brooding tech billionaire and fiercely loyal twin brother from The Flirt Alert. In Boarding Pass, he trades spreadsheets for soul-searching and a one-way ticket to Paris, where a spilled glass of wine and a beautiful stranger named Sophie Dumond change everything.

Sophie’s a celebrated photographer with a bruised heart, trying to find her spark again. Miles is a man who thought he had it all, until he meets her.

What starts as one night of laughter and connection becomes an unexpected journey… straight into forever.

I love this book so much because it’s about risk, joy, healing, and chemistry that can’t be denied.

It’s inspired by my own love of travel and my own “chance encounter” with my Irish soulmate. (Though it was spilled Guinness, not wine…)

Haven’t grabbed your copy yet? Now’s the perfect time!

Get Boarding Pass today

What’s Next?

I’ve got THREE new books coming out before the end of 2025 and one more just in time for Valentine’s Day 2026 (cue the swoons)! Keep an eye out for the conclusion of my Charming Irish series and other steamy surprises (including the announcement of a new series…)

You won’t want to miss a thing.

Gratitude and Heartfelt Thanks

Whether you’ve been here since Less Than Zero or are just meeting my characters for the first time, thank you. Your support, reviews, and messages mean the world to me.

Let’s raise a glass of Bordeaux to taking chances, falling in love, and always booking the trip.

With so much love,

Kaylene Winter

The post BOARDING PASS RELEASE DAY! appeared first on Kaylene Winter, Author.