RELEASE TOUR – The Best of Times by Kristian Parker

It’s going to be a hectic Christmas. Perfect timing for love.

Length: 50,000 words

Series: Queens Crescent, book 9 (series finale)

Prior Reading: Recommended but not required

Genre: Contemporary

Tropes: Second chance love, Age gap, Life needs to change

Blurb:

Londoner Aron Wimpole has been taking a bite out of the Big Apple for the last two years. He’s enjoyed the taste but when his beloved grandmother, the formidable Beatrice Wimpole summons him home to help plan her wedding to Professor Higgs, he quickly jumps on a plane for a two-week stay.

The pull of home is strong, making Aron wonder if he’s really committed to New York…and then Paul Higgs strolls back into his life. Aron can’t avoid him—they’re co-wedding planners and everything must run like clockwork. And besides, Aron’s determined to show Paul what he missed out on when he walked away from him two years ago. All he has to do is to keep control of his feelings.

One flaw in this plan is that handsome prizewinning photographer Paul seems more than willing to pick up where they left off.  But Paul’s bravado masks deeper commitment fears. Ones that threaten to ruin both of their lives.

But Aron’s got to ignore all that and help deliver the wedding to end all weddings.

It’s going to be a hectic Christmas.

When Paul opened the door, he almost took Aron’s breath away. He had on a light denim shirt and olive cargo pants. As usual his shoulder-length hair sat perfectly tousled. Why were some people effortlessly gorgeous and for others it was an hour-long process? “Bang on time,” Paul said, leaning against the doorframe. He grinned, instantly making Aron’s legs go wobbly. You sexy bastard. He had to maintain focus. There would not be a repeat of their earlier encounter. Parkin let out a yap, bringing Aron back to the present. “Can we come in?” Aron asked. “It’s bloody freezing.” “Of course.” Paul stood away. Aron sauntered past him. The smell of Paul’s citrus cologne reminded him of times spent in bed, talking rubbish for hours. He refused to be derailed and carried on into the Professor’s lounge. There was no sign of the man himself. “Where’s your father?” “Upstairs. He’s finishing a piece for The New York Times or something.” Aron unclipped Parkin’s lead. “Go on, boy,” he said. “Find your new daddy.” Parkin evidently knew the lay of the land in the house as he shot straight upstairs. Aron sank onto the sofa. “I didn’t realise I’d have to share my father now,” Paul said. “Drink?” “No thanks. We haven’t got time. Have you seen our list? Granny keeps adding to it. We’ll be half dead by the time she walks up the aisle.” Paul sat down next to him. Very close. He had absolutely no need to do that. Aron was wedged against the arm now so escape was not an option. Fuck it’s warm in here. “Have no fear,” Paul said, gazing at him. “We always did work well together.” Aron stared directly into Paul’s eyes. “Is that why you fucked off to Iran?” Paul sighed. “I told you.” “Yes. It was for Vogue.” “What can I say? I treated you badly. For that, I apologise. I truly do.” The room had become claustrophobic. Aron wanted to be out of there and focusing on anything other than past mistakes. “I suppose I’ll have to accept your apology.” “Good. Because we’re going to be family soon.” Aron laughed. “Family? We both know that’s a hit-and-miss affair for me.” “Still no better?” A lump formed in Aron’s throat. “A topic I have no intention of discussing with you. Grab your coat. We’re going shopping.”  

I have written for as long as I could write. In fact, before, when I would dictate to my auntie. I love to read, and I love to create worlds and characters.

I live in the English countryside. When I’m not writing, I like to get out there and think through the next scenario I’m going to throw my characters into.

Inspiration can be found anywhere, on a train, in a restaurant or in an office. I am always in search of the next character to find love in one of my stories. In a world of apps and online dating, it is important to remember love can be found when you least expect it.

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