Love Fantasy Romance? Check out Ceílí by Moriah Gemel (author interview, excerpt and giveaway)

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Ceílí by Moriah Gemel
Release Date: March 17, 2016

Goodreads Link: www.goodreads.com/moriahgemel
Publisher: Interlude Press
Cover Artist: Design – CB Messer, Cover art by Ari McFarland

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Moriah Gemel author of Céilí. Hi Moriah, thank you for agreeing to this interview. Tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your current book.

Thank you for having me. I’m an author at night and a stay-at-home mom during the day, and I’ve been writing since the age of seven. My current book is called Céilí and it’s about a man who finds where he belongs after a lifetime of searching, and how he comes to protect that life at all costs.

  • Do you have pictures that you use for your characters? Can you share them with us?
    Sure can! Here we go:
  • This is the picture I use for Devon, my main character. In reality he’s a model named Nate Gill, but he’s what I have in mind for Devon.Picture1 gorgeous blk guy

This is the picture I use for Eldan, Devon’s love interest. In reality he’s a model named Tim Borrmann.geeky white guy

  • What kind of book would you like to write that people would see as a huge departure for you?
    It’s funny, I’ve written such a wide variety of stories that I’m not sure anyone would be surprised if I wrote anything. I’ve written everything from high fantasy to horror. I’ve written very dark stories and I’ve written light ones. So I’m not entirely sure, to be honest.
  • Have you ever killed a character? Was it traumatic for you? If you haven’t killed one, would you ever consider it?
    I have killed a character or two in my day. It was not traumatic for me—I’ve done far worse to characters than just killing them. I’m not afraid to go there with my stories.
  • Favorite location you’ve ever written about?
    I’ve loved writing about LA. It’s a shame I live across the country, I’d love to visit and see all the places I’m writing about, but for now my friend Meg, Google, and Google Earth are my best friends when dealing with writing about LA.
  • What’s your favorite season and favorite activity for that season?
    I love fall, and to be honest I just love going for walks in the fall. The crunch of the leaves under my feet is a sensory heaven for me, and the brisk air is my favorite kind of air. I love just taking my son, holding his hand, and taking him on a walk around town or to the playground.

Blurb

The Los Angeles music scene has not been kind to Devon Caelin. He struggles to fit in and has a streak of bad luck the length of the Sunset Strip. One rare rainy night, he drowns his sorrows from bar-to-bar, until he stumbles into an alley club called Céilí. He discovers that it’s home to a small community of mystical people making their way in the human world, and that he found it only because he is Fae himself. With mentoring from the pub’s proprietor, Eldan—a powerful Fae Lord protecting his kind in the city—Devon unearths his past and discovers his magical abilities. His life appears to be back on track—until a member of the Faerie Court is murdered and the secret of their world is threatened to be revealed.

Pages or Words: 200 pages
Categories: Contemporary, Fantasy, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Romance, Urban Fantasy

Excerpt

“This is where we’ll do the spell,” Eldan says. “I can open the channel easily enough, but I’d like you to assist in keeping it open. Stand behind me when I tell you to, and put your hands on my shoulders. If we’re compatible, I’ll be able to take some of your energy to bolster mine, just enough to maintain a stronger connection than I would on my own, all right? You might get a little dizzy, but I promise you’ll be okay.”

“I’m not afraid, Eldan.” Devon is excited to see this magic performed, to see the Queens. What will they be like, these women that Eldan is wary to speak of?

“No. You aren’t, are you?” Eldan smiles. “Well. Best get on with it then. Stand nearby, please?”

Devon settles himself just behind Eldan, and Eldan nods. Then, he pulls a little vial from his pocket and shakes it.

“Here we go.”

He uncorks the bottle, and Devon smells something almost metallic. Eldan walks to the first corner of the table, to the right, and pours a drop of whatever’s inside the vial over the little pile of dirt.

“Cré.” His hand hovers over the bowl, and the dirt spreads and forms a flat plane under his palm. Eldan smiles and walks on.

He walks to the back right of the table and pours a drop into the empty bowl. “Aer,” he says and his hand hovers. The bowl trembles, and the dust motes in the air within it coalesce and spin. He walks on.

The third bowl holds sticks, and Eldan pours the liquid on them before hovering his hand, causing them to burst into flames. “Tine.” Devon can’t help but push his breath out and shake his head. This is cool. All this magic, it’s really real. He thought it was a story for children, but magic is real, and he’s a part of it. He never thought much about fairytales but now he wishes he had, because it would make this moment so much better.

Finally, Eldan pours into the fourth bowl, filled with water, and his hand hovering creates little waves that splash on the sides of the bowl gently, as though upset. “Uisce,” he says and then he walks on.

He circles the table counter-clockwise three times and, when he reaches the head of the table once more, he nods to Devon. “Now.”

Devon steps up as Eldan turns away and puts his hands on Eldan’s slim, strong shoulders. Immediately, his palms tingle, as Eldan waves a hand. The mirror in the center of the table stands up, reflecting them. Eldan presses a palm to the center of it.

“Oscailt agus a léiriú,” Eldan says. Devon wishes he knew what the hell he was saying, but it’s pretty, in any case. Celtic? Gaelic? Something. “Na Ríona I Talún Samhraidh.”

The mirror clouds, and Devon licks his lips and stands on his tiptoes to see over Eldan’s shoulder. Nothing happens, though, for long moments, in which Eldan’s breathing comes quick and loud. Devon squeezes his shoulders, and Eldan whimpers faintly. But he slows down, and Devon keeps squeezing, staring at what he can see of Eldan’s face, staring at the delicate line of his jaw, his high cheekbone, the flutter of an eyelash, the jut of his nose, which is freckled and fair.

But then the clouds part, and there they are.

 

Buy the book

 Interlude Press: store.interludepress.com

 

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Meet the Author

 

Moriah Gemel has developed a dedicated following for her realistic, sexually-charged stories over twelve years in online fan communities. Moriah is passionate about diversity in fiction, as well as realistic depictions of BDSM and sex education. Her first novel, Load the Dice, was published as a serial in ten parts. Céilí is her second novel. She lives with her husband, young son, and two cats.

Where to find the author:

Facebook: www.facebook.com/moriahgemel

Twitter: @moriahgemel

 


Tour Dates & Stops:

17-Mar: Book Lovers 4Ever, Elisa – My Reviews and Ramblings, BFD Book Blog

18-Mar: Happily Ever Chapter, Divine Magazine, Unquietly Me, Wake Up Your Wild Side

21-Mar: Outrageous Heroes, Nephy Hart, Inked Rainbow Reads, Velvet Panic

22-Mar: The Hat Party, Rednecks and Romance, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words

23-Mar: Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews, Alpha Book Club

24-Mar: MM Good Book Reviews

25-Mar: Full Moon Dreaming

28-Mar: Kirsty Loves Books, A.M. Leibowitz, My Fiction Nook

29-Mar: Havan Fellows, The Novel Approach

30-Mar: Love Bytes, Bayou Book Junkie, Molly Lolly

Final

Giveaway

 

Enter to win. Must be 18 years of age or older.  Link and prize provided by the author and Pride Promotion.
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In Our Author Spotlight: Brandon Witt, Author of ‘Under a Sky of Ash’ (author interview)

Under a Sky of Ash

Under a Sky of Ash by Brandon Witt
D
reamspinner Press
Cover Artist Anne Cain

Sales Links Dreamspinner Press eBook & Paperback | Amazon

Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is happy to have Brandon Witt here today to share some insight about his writing, his characters and his latest release, Under a Sky of Ash.  Welcome, Brandon.  Just a few questions….

Where do you normally draw your inspiration for a book from?  A memory, a myth, a place or journey, or something far more personal?

Typically from either my own life or the people in my life.  After 16 years of teaching/counseling, the inspirations are limitless. It’s amazing that one moment of my own life or someone else’s can trigger and open up an entire world for a novel. In Under a Sky of Ash, the teaching and my students’ lives were the biggest inspiration. 

Are you a planner or a pantzer when writing a story? And why?

I’m a big planner.  We’re talking notebooks, outlines, character sheets, pictures, family trees, on and on and on.  The reason is twofold, for me.  One, it’s just how my brain works.  I need to be able to see the entire picture to have an idea where I’m going.  I’m very one-track minded, with everything.  I’m not a good multi-tasker. So, planning helps.  Although, my plans typically change as I write the story, but at least it helps to know where I’m going.  Two, I feel like it really helps me know my characters inside and out before I start the story.  Granted, they change and grow over the course of the book, but I have no idea how I’d ever start writing a story about characters I didn’t know.  I’ve heard other authors talk about how they never plan and how they get to know their characters as they write.  I would be completely lost.  But I admire them for being able to do so!

Contemporary, supernatural, fantasy, or science fiction narratives or something else?  Does any genre draw you more than another when writing it or reading it and why does it do so?

I know this is the wrong answer, but fantasy is my biggest thing (or at least urban paranormal).  However, I’ve always tended to write real life, even though I read more fantasy.  Maybe it’s just using writing as therapy?  Not sure.  Though I do have a fantasy series out and a couple shorts coming in the next couple of months.  As far as romance?  For about six years in Jr. High and high school, I read every Christian Romance novel I could get my hands on.  Yes, you read that right!  (For any of you who had the same sickness, my favorites were anything by Bodie Thoene and The Winslow Series.)

If you had a character you’ve written you would write differently now at this time in your writing career, who would it be and why?

Oh! That’s a dangerous question. I almost don’t want to answer that one!  However, that answer is easy.  Brooke Morrison, from The Shattered Door.  It was my first novel and over ten years ago now.  He really documents where I was in that moment in my journey out of learn-to-be-straight therapy and my Christian beliefs.  I read that book now and I’m in such a different place than where he is (where I was), it’s honestly hard for me to get through it.  However, that is one of the wonderful things about writing.  It captures the author where they are at that moment.  I’m sure I’ll feel the same about some of the characters now when I look back in ten more years. Ultimately, I wouldn’t change him.  There are many people that LOVE Brooke.  I think I see so much of myself in him that it’s hard to show him the same amount of grace as I do my other characters.

Can an author have favorites among their characters and do you have them?

Dear lord yes!  And I’m not sure what this says about me, but, for me, it’s almost always my supporting characters and/or my women.

In The Shattered Door, it’s Maudra.  I’ve even named my Mini Cooper after her.  She’s perfect and I want her in my real life.

In the Men of Myth Series, it’s Sonia. She is so gorgeous and strong and damaged and vicious.  I’m totally captivated by her.

In Under a Sky of Ash, it’s ManDonna. The drag queen.  Writing her was the most fun I’ve ever had writing a character.  I swear she was in the room with me in every scene she was in.  I couldn’t believe the things she said as my fingers typed the words.

If you were to be stranded on a small demi-planet, island, or god forbid LaGuardia in a snow storm, what books would you take to read or authors on your comfort list?

Easy.  Cliché though it may be.  Harry Potter, by JK Rowling.  Those books are and always will be my all-time favorite.

Woke Up in a Strange Place, by Eric Arvin

The Black Dagger Brotherhood series, by JR Ward

Beneath the Stain, by Amy Lane

From the Corner of His Eye, by Dean Koontz

Lonely Heart series, by Heidi Cullinan

Dogwood Days, by Poppy Dennison

How early in your life did you begin writing?

Sophomore year in high school.  All thanks to Ms. Becca Hungerford.  She was the teacher that started it all.  School and reading  (and even more so, math and science) were never easy for me.  I had to work hours and hours each night, often over tears, and then still go in for tutoring.  Ms. Hungerford taught us creative writing.  It was the first time I didn’t agonize over homework.  And she was always so complimentary and kind.  She fostered growth through gentleness and encouragement.  I owe her everything!

Were you an early reader or were you read to and what childhood books had an impact on you as a child that you remember to this day and why?

As I stated above, reading was hard.  I wasn’t able to really read until fifth grade.  Before then, I only read Garfield and Archies. Then mom forced, FORCED, me to read Mr. Popper’s Penguins and The Secret Garden the summer between 4th and 5th grade.  It clicked and I devoured every book I could find.  I loved Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew, Secrets of a Unicorn Queen, anything by Gene Stratton-Porter and Laura Ingalls Wilder, on and on and on.

What question would you ask yourself here?

Is living the life of a full-time writer as wonderful as you dreamed?

Yes!  A billion times yes!  The ONLY draw back is the constant terror of if I will be actually able to support myself with writing and not have it all slip through my fingers.  Other than that, it really is better than I dreamed.  To write every single day?  Unreal.  To life a life that I’ve dreamed of for nearly two decades?  I’m so very, very blessed and I pray that it will last. To hear from and talk to readers who connect with my books and find out they were touched by them or simply entertained?  Absolutely floors me.  I am completely filled with gratitude and hope.

If you were writing your life as a romance novel, what would the title be?

Custom-Fit Love

Tag-line:  Romance readers beware, this romance has almost everything you hate in your romance novels, however, the two main characters couldn’t be happier.

Thank you, Brandon, this was wonderful.  Please come back and visit us again.

Now read on to discover more about…

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Under a Sky of Ash by Brandon Witt

 

More than a decade after leaving Colorado to attend college and escape his past, Isaiah Greene moves back and builds a life in Denver as a special education teacher. When he meets Ben Woods, the mentor of one of his students, the attraction is immediate. The revelations that they’ve both suffered traumatic childhoods form a bond between them.

Raised by an abusive grandmother, Ben is a recovering addict who has made a family with his construction worker boss, Hershel, and Hershel’s husband, Daniel—drag queen ManDonna. Adding Isaiah to his life gives Ben a glimpse of a future he’d never dreamed possible for himself.

Both Isaiah and Ben are survivors, but when guilt drives a wedge between them, the past threatens to end their relationship.

Ben and Isaiah embark on journeys of self-discovery. Though their path will be difficult at times, humor and love find a way to bring light to the darkness.

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About the Author

 

Brandon Witt’s outlook on life is greatly impacted by his first eighteen years of growing up gay in a small town in the Ozarks, as well as fifteen years as a counselor and special education teacher for students with severe emotional disabilities. Add to that his obsession with corgis and mermaids, then factor in an unhealthy love affair with cheeseburgers, and you realize that with all those issues, he’s got plenty to write about….

 

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YouTube:  HYPERLINK “https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO5cFqYKyNyDCxExAonFPRA” https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO5cFqYKyNyDCxExAonFPRA

Murders Afoot with the Return of the Lindenshaw Mysteries in ‘Jury of One’ by Charlie Cochrane

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Jury of One (Lindenshaw Mysteries) by Charlie Cochrane
R
iptide Publishing
Cover art by L.C. Chase

Read an Excerpt/Purchase it Here

Jury of One is the second in the Lindenshaw Mysteries series. It features a gay Detective Inspector, Robin, whose investigations never seem to run in a straightforward fashion, and his teacher partner Adam who finds Robin’s cases appear determined to involve him. And there’s Adam’s dog, Campbell, who’s desperate to stick his big, black wet nose into everybody’s business.

About  Jury of One

Inspector Robin Bright is enjoying a quiet Saturday with his lover, Adam Matthews, when murder strikes in nearby Abbotston, and he’s called in to investigate. He hopes for a quick resolution, but as the case builds, he’s drawn into a tangled web of crimes, new and old, that threatens to ensnare him and destroy his fledgling relationship.

Adam is enjoying his final term teaching at Lindenshaw School, and is also delighted to be settling down with Robin at last. Only Robin doesn’t seem so thrilled. Then an old crush of Adam’s shows up in the murder investigation, and suddenly Adam is yet again fighting to stay out of one of Robin’s cases, to say nothing of trying to keep their relationship from falling apart.

Between murder, stabbings, robberies, and a suspect with a charming smile, the case threatens to ruin everything both Robin and Adam hold dear. What does it take to realise where your heart really lies, and can a big, black dog hold the key?magnifiying glass with fingerprint

About Charlie Cochrane

As Charlie Cochrane couldn’t be trusted to do any of her jobs of choice—like managing a rugby team—she writes, with titles published by Carina, Samhain, Bold Strokes, MLR and Cheyenne.

Charlie’s Cambridge Fellows Series of Edwardian romantic mysteries was instrumental in her being named Author of the Year 2009 by the review site Speak Its Name. She’s a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association, Mystery People, International Thriller Writers Inc and is on the organising team for UK Meet for readers/writers of GLBT fiction. She regularly appears with The Deadly Dames.

Connect with Charlie:

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Giveaway

Leave a comment for a chance to win a download of  Lessons in Love (Cambridge Fellows Mysteries #1) in audio! Entries close at midnight, Eastern time, on March 26, 2016. Contest is NOT restricted to U.S. entries. Thanks for following the tour, and don’t forget to leave your contact info!  Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

Lindenshaw Mysteries

Adam Matthews’s life changed when Inspector Robin Bright walked into his classroom to investigate a murder.

Now it seems like all the television series are right: the leafy villages of England do indeed conceal a hotbed of crime, murder, and intrigue. Lindenshaw is proving the point.

Detective work might be Robin’s job, but Adam somehow keeps getting involved—even though being a teacher is hardly the best training for solving crimes. Then again, Campbell, Adam’s irrepressible Newfoundland dog, seems to have a nose for figuring things out, so how hard can it be?

The Best Corpse for the Job (Lindenshaw Mysteries, #1) Charlie Cochrane*

Jury of One (Lindenshaw Mysteries, #2)Charlie Cochrane*

*A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Recommended Story.

A New List of LGBTQIA Stories in the Making and This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

A New List of LGBTQIA Stories in the Making

Here at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words we love our lists.  We are especially fond of our favorite  covers and best books, favorite shifters, best science fiction…well, you get the idea.  With all the discussions flying about, we will be adding a new list as a starting point, one that we would love your input as we will have missed some to be sure.  Its a list of your recommended Stories with Asexual/Pansexual Main Characters.  Here is just a few already suggested:

How To Be A Normal Person by T.J. Klune
The Coffee Cake series (2 books) by Michaela Grey
Ace by Jack Byrne
Blood and Clockwork by Katey Hawthorne
Blue Eyed Stranger (Trowchester Blues, #2) by Alex Beecroft

And that’s just for starters.  Have a few books to suggest we add to our list?  Comment below or  send them to us.  It won’t be a static list, keep sending them to us with each new book you find.  The more the merrier!

And now for this week’s schedule.

Spring Beauties

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

 

Sunday, March 2o:

  • A New List of LGBTQIA Stories in the Making and This Week At Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday,  March 21:

  • Jury of One by Charlie Cochrane tour and giveaway
  • Under a Sky of Ash by Brandon Witt — author guest post
  • A Jeri Review: Under a Sky of Ash by Brandon Witt
  • A Melanie M Review: Dirty Heart by Rhys Ford (release day review)
  • A Stella Review: Trailer Trash by Marie Sexton

Tuesday, March 22:

  • In the Spotlight: Trailer Trash‏ by Marie Sexton (giveaway)
  • Nicola Haken “Broken” Author Guest Spot
  • Moriah Gemel ‘Ceili’, Virtual tour and giveaway
  • A MelanieM Review:  Jury of One by Charlie Cochrane
  • A Jeri Review: It’s a Long Way to the Top (Acts of Insanity Book 1) by Cherry Cox

Wednesday, March 23:

  • Dusk Peterson ‘Rebirth’ Tour and Giveaway
  • The Worst Bad Thing by J.E. Birk –  Dreamspinner Author guest post
  • In Our Audiobook Spotlight: Toni Griffin ‘Determined Mate’ (audiobook) (giveaway)
  • A MelanieM Review: The Worst Bad Thing by J.E. Birk
  • A F.D. Review: The Empty Hourglass by Cornelia Gray

Thursday, March 24:

  • Chris Quinton’s ‘Tawny’ book blast and giveaway
  • Irrefutable by Jennifer Rose Blog Tour and Giveaway
  • A Jeri Review: Broken by Nicola Haken
  • A Lila Review: The Assasin’s Pet by NaNa G
  •  BJ Review: F.I.S.T.S. Handbook For Individual Survival in Hostile Environments by Bey Deckard

Friday, March 25:

  • Amelia Bishop ‘More Than Love’ book blast and giveaway
  • Bankers’ Hours by Wade Kelly – author guest post and giveaway
  • Release Day Guest Post: Waking Jamal by Amberly Smith
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Bankers’ Hours by Wade Kelly
  • A Stella Review: Fire of the Heart by Lee Brazil and Havan Fellows

Saturday, March 26:

A MelanieM Review: Fish and Ghosts by Rhys Ford

 

 

 

Katey Hawthorne On Clockwork Magic on the Blood and Clockwork Tour (Guest Post, excerpt and Giveaway)

Blood and Clockwork

Blood and Clockwork by Katey Hawthorne
L
ess Than Three Press
Published March 16th 2016

Art Work  by Natasha Snow

Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words is happy to have Katey Hawthorne, author of Blood and Clockwork, here to talk about the novel and the inspiration behind it.  Welcome, Katey!

Clockwork Magic

Hi, and thanks for letting me drop by at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue words. You know I love you all! Today I’m going to talk about my newest release, Blood and Clockwork, which is part of Less Than Three Press’s Solitary Travelers collection—all containing asexual protagonists! They cover the ace spectrum pretty well, from what I understand, and the hero of my book, Alistair Click, is asexual panromantic. He’s also a huge nerd and itinerant horologist.

I’ve had a huge thing for clockwork my whole life. I’m not sure what it is about the cogs and wheels clicking away, but they’re mesmerizing. I think back to a time when clockwork was far more pervasive than it is now and how wonders like the Silver Swan used to draw huge crowds—and wonder if it does even now. I don’t think it’d seem any less magical to people today… well, depending on their level of cynicism.

Anyhow, this is just a long way of saying that this is why I love to write about clockwork, and even clockwork as or intertwined with magic. There’s a small problem with that in Alistair Click’s world, sadly…

A faint glimmering came from a round object within, like a glass ball, but with some sort of gas or liquid trapped inside, roiling. It tied my stomach in knots. “It may be magic,” I said gravely.

“Magic, of course there’s magic.” [Marco’s] deadpan was impressive. “Okay, so. Clockwork-activated magic?”

“No wonder the Prince went mad.” I handed off the lantern and jumped down from the stool. “This makes it even riskier to meddle with. Magic is outlawed for a reason. That reason is madness. It follows inevitably.”

So there’s that to deal with, on top of a tower full of clockwork puzzles. Fun times, amiright?

BLURB:

Blood and Clockwork: Alistair Click set out to lay to rest the superstitious fears about the Mad Prince’s clockwork tower. If thatBlood and Clockwork meant he might bring the ghost city of Avalonia back to economic life, connecting the western kingdoms once again, so much the better. So what if no adventurer who’d entered the tower in the last century of desolation had ever re-emerged? They didn’t have his skill and wit. He could do better.

The tower turns out to be far more than Alistair expected, however. Not only are there clockwork puzzles to open every door, but one of them drops a boy from a strange world into his lap—figuratively speaking, if only just. Marco Murphy was just gaming in his New Jersey apartment, and now he’s stuck in what feels like a never ending LARP nightmare.

The deeper they delve into the Mad Prince’s tower, the darker the secrets they uncover. They’re not entirely sure they’ll ever be able to get out again, either. It’ll take all Marco’s charm and Alistair’s cleverness, plus the strange bond growing between them, to get them out together… and alive.

LINKS:Author’s site: http://www.kateyhawthorne.com/p/one-shots.html

Sales Links

Less Than Three Press  |  Amazon   |   All Romance eBooks

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katey Hawthorne is an avid reader and writer of superpowered romance, even though the only degree she holds is in the history of art. (Or, possibly, because the only degree she holds is in the history of art.) Originally from the Appalachian foothills of West Virginia, she currently lives in Ohio. In her spare time she enjoys comic books, B-movies, loud music, Epiphones, and Bushmills. Find her at http://www.kateyhawthorne.com/

GIVEAWAY:

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Its a Last Visit To Pleasanton with Andrew Grey, On His Latest Release ‘Love Comes to Light (Senses #6) (guest blog, and excerpt)

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Love Comes To Light (Senses #6) by Andrew Grey
D
reamspinner Press

Cover Artist L.C. Chase
Release Date:  March 18, 2016

Sales Links:  Dreamspinner Press eBook & Paperback

Love Comes to Light – Pleasanton

This story represents the last time we will visit Pleasanton, Michigan, a town I made up in my imagination.  However, the area is a place I remember fondly.  When I was about eight or so, my family took a trip around Lake Superior and we spent some time in that area of Michigan.  My memories of that time are sketchy, but I do remember getting on a boat with my dad and seeing the colored layers of rocks that make up Pictured Rocks in Lake Superior.  Later when Dominic and I took a trip the Upper Peninsula years ago, we once again travelled through that area.

It was beautiful with pine forests and sparkling water.  Dominic and I had a wonderful time driving along the lakeshore and we ended up stopping by the lake at a roadside picnic area for lunch.  It was that lunch and our drive that I recalled when I decided to create Pleasanton.   There are small towns in that area of the state and some of them have characteristics that went into Pleasanton, in the end my town is an amalgamation of what I saw and what sprang from my imagination.

Blurb

A Senses Series Story

Artist Arik Bosler is terrified he might have lost his creative gift in the accident that left his hand badly burned. When he’s offered the chance to work with renowned artist Ken Brighton, Arik fears his injury will be too much to overcome.

He travels to Pleasanton to meet Ken, where he runs into the intimidating Reg Thompson. Reg, a biker who customizes motorcycles, is a big man with a heart of gold who was rejected by most of his family. Arik is initially afraid of Reg because of his size. However it’s Reg’s heart that warms Arik’s interest and gets him to look past the exterior to let down his guard.

But Arik soon realizes that certain members of Reg’s motorcycle club are into things he can’t have any part of. Reg can’t understand why Arik disappears until he learns Arik’s injury was the result of his father’s drug activity. Though neither Reg nor Arik wants anything to do with drugs, the new leadership of Reg’s club might have other ideas.

Excerpt

At the edge of Pleasanton, his nerves began to get the better of him. He pulled into a gas station and up to the pumps, then turned off the engine. He needed gas and a chance to think. He should have stayed home and not put himself through all this.

A tap on the doorframe pulled him out of his thoughts. Arik turned and squeaked at the huge man half leaning into his window. “You want some gas or what?” the man asked gruffly. Arik was belted in or he’d have scooted into the passenger seat to get away.

“Yeah,” he answered shakily. Arik watched as the huge, bald-headed man, dressed in jeans and a plaid shirt with a leather jacket hanging open over the top, stared back at him with eyes that said he wanted to tear Arik apart. At least that was what Arik saw in them. He shivered and tried not to look scared. “Th… thank you?” God, he hoped this guy worked at the station.

The guy didn’t move—he just watched Arik for a few seconds as Arik chilled and willed his legs not to shake while hoping the guy wasn’t about to reach in and grab him.

The huge man pulled back, and Arik breathed a sigh of relief.

“You need to open your gas cover,” the man said, and Arik pulled the gas-cap lever, fingers shaking. He reached over and raised the passenger window. He also raised his partway and felt a little safer. Arik adjusted his rearview mirror, watching the man and wishing like hell he could get out of here. He reminded himself that the two of them had never met before, and the guy pumping his gas had no reason to hate him. That still didn’t stop Arik’s insides from churning. When he heard the sound of the gas nozzle being removed, he pulled out his wallet, checked the pump for the amount, and got out some bills.

“That will be $27.53,” the man said gruffly.

Arik handed him thirty dollars. “Thank you,” he said hastily, and then he raised the window and started the engine. The man might have said something, but Arik pulled away and turned back onto the main road, following the directions his GPS system gave him.

It took a good ten minutes for his breathing to return to normal. He hated that the gas station guy had intimidated him, but he hadn’t been able to help his reaction.

 Andrew Grey

About the Author

Andrew grew up in western Michigan with a father who loved to tell stories and a mother who loved to read them. Since then he has lived throughout the country and traveled throughout the world. He has a master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and works in information systems for a large corporation.

Andrew’s hobbies include collecting antiques, gardening, and leaving his dirty dishes anywhere but in the sink (particularly when writing)  He considers himself blessed with an accepting family, fantastic friends, and the world’s most supportive and loving partner. Andrew currently lives in beautiful, historic Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Author Links

  • Amazon Author Page
  • Barnes and Noble Page
  • Dreamspinner Press
  • Facebook
  • Facebook Group All the Way with Andrew Grey
  • Goodreads
  • Twitter  @andrewgreybooks
  • Website

For Other Works by Andrew Grey

(Please Be Sure To Stop by His Website to See All of His Works)

The ones listed below is for this Series Only

Senses Series

  • Love Comes Silently Book 1
  • Love Comes in Darkness Book 2
  • Love Comes Home Book 3
  • Love Comes Around Book 4
  • Love Comes Unheard Book 5
  • Love Comes to Light Book 6

In the Spotlight: Dianne Hartsock’s ‘Stuck on Rewind’ (Character interview, sexy excerpt and giveaway)

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Stuck on Rewind by Dianne Hartsock
Release Date: March 15, 2016

Goodreads Link
Publisher: Pride Publishing
Cover Artist: Emmy Ellis

Today I’m very lucky to be interviewing Lance from Dianne Hartsock’s book STUCK ON REWIND. Hi Lance, thank you for agreeing to this interview. Tell us a little about yourself.

  • What are you most proud of about your life?

You’ll probably think I’m vain, but I believe I’m one of the best dancers in this city. But isn’t it okay for an artist to be proud of their work? And I do work hard at this, practicing every spare chance I get. Oh, you meant on a personal level? I’m most proud of the fact that I’ve been able to keep Ashton as my best friend. He’s amazing. So much smarter than I am. It makes me proud that he still wants to be with me.

  • What are you most ashamed of in your life?

Not a very nice question to ask someone. But if you want a confession out of me, I guess I’m most ashamed of the men I’ve used in my life. I mean, mostly the guys I’m with are just out to have a good time, like I am. But sometimes I’ll be with someone simply because I’m lonely, or because they’re hot. Shallow of me, I know. And now I see the hurt in Ashton’s eyes and wish I hadn’t dated any of them.

  • What are you most afraid of?

I’ve tried to show Ashton that I’ve changed. That I don’t want to date anyone but him. But with my history… I’m afraid I can’t convince him and that I’ll lose him, even though I love him more than anything.

  • Tell me about your best friend. What do you like about this person? What do they like about you?

Ashton is the best friend anyone can hope for. He stood by me all through high school when I was just finding myself. Even when my parents were confused and ashamed of me, Ashton picked me up and kept me going with his support and kindness to a messed up kid. What does Ashton like about me? He says it’s my kind heart, but I’ve seen his face when he watches me dance. I think it’s more than that.

  • What’s your idea of a good marriage? Do you think that’ll happen in your life?

*A pretty blush colors Lance’s face* Marriage? I’ve never really thought about it. I guess it’s a good idea to be friends, and to trust each other. Have fun and great sex together. But do I think I’ll ever marry? *His blush deepens* Maybe. If Ashton ever asks me. I could be his husband. Definitely.

Thanks, Lance, for stopping by.  Want to know more about Lance and Ashton?  Keep reading…

Blurb

Ashton has been in love with his best friend for years, watching him grow from a pretty high school boy to the gorgeous erotic dancer at the club where they both work. The problem is that Lance enjoys the attention of a variety of men while Ashton wants him for his very own.

After a day spent denying his attraction for Lance, standing by while their friend Trey openly flirts with him, Ashton decides it’s time to make his move or risk losing his man forever. Once Lance knows how he feels, he’ll realize they should be together. Or is it already too late?

 

Pages or Words: 10,308 words
Categories: Contemporary, Erotic, Gay Fiction, M/M Romance, Romance

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Excerpt

“Fuck!” Ashton shouted in a mixture of anger and ecstasy as Lance swallowed again, then let Ashton’s softening cock slip from between his perfect lips. Ashton leaned on his elbows, his chest heaving while he caught his breath. With a last kiss on his thigh, Lance climbed off the bed, sleek-limbed and graceful, and walked to the dresser with a sassy sway of his hips.

Ashton stared after him and groaned, not sure if he wanted to pull his friend’s ass back into his arms or punch him in the face. It would be incredible to wake up with Lance every morning and make love to him. But he sternly reminded himself that they were only friends and Lance needed to stop climbing into his bed at night uninvited.

“You do remember you have a bed of your own?” he asked, more sharply than he’d intended.

Lance gave him a smirk over his shoulder, making a show of licking the last of Ashton’s spunk off his swollen lips. “You told me to wake you at seven.”

“I didn’t mean… Oh hell.” Ashton fell back on the pillows and threw an arm over his eyes. He swore in exasperation when the mattress dipped and Lance’s familiar scent surrounded him. “Damn it—”

Soft fingers touched his mouth. “Don’t be mad, baby. I didn’t mean anything.”

Ashton peered at him through the dark curls that had flopped into his eyes. The guy looked positively forlorn, and Ashton sat up, giving him a one-armed hug. “I’m not mad. But you don’t need to keep doing that, either. You’re my friend!” He kissed Lance’s cheek, the velvet skin warm with a blush. “You make a terrific roommate, and I like the company.”

“And I like you.” Lance walked his fingers up Ashton’s leg.

Ashton laughed and shooed the hand away, but couldn’t help staring at the enticing evidence of his friend’s arousal between his legs.

“Can I take care of that for you?”

“Not at all.” Lance stood up, waving off Ashton’s offer. “I’ll deal with it in the shower. You have to save your attentions for Mister Man.”

“Who are you talking about…? Wait!” Ashton rolled off the bed and trotted after Lance as he crossed the apartment.

Lance giggled, slipping behind the bathroom door but holding it cracked open an inch. He smiled at Ashton with his pouty, kissable lips. “You know, the boss. Mister Kent.”

“I’m not saving myself for—”

Ashton blinked at the closed door. Why in the world would Lance think he was interested in his boss? Sure, the man was handsome as sin, but he was also an egomaniac and tyrant. Why only yesterday, he’d…

Hot blood scorched Ashton’s neck and face, his arm tingling where Morgan Kent had gripped it, towering over him. The man had bent to his ear, swamping Ashton’s senses with subtle cologne and a hint of sweat as he’d whispered, “If you can’t type a simple letter without mistakes, I’ll find a secretary who can.” He’d tightened his hand almost painfully on Ashton’s arm. “Or maybe I should just bend you over this desk and smack your ass for each mistake?”

Ashton’s dick jumped at the memory. He told it sternly to behave. “We’re not falling for that bastard. We’ll stick with the sweet boys at the club and call it good.”

Buy the book

Pride Publishing | Amazon | AmazonUK | Barnes & Noble

Meet the Author

Dianne grew up in one of the older homes in the middle of Los Angeles, a place of hardwood floors and secret closets and back staircases. A house where ghosts lurk in the basement and the faces in the paintings watch you walk up the front stairs. Rooms where you keep the closet doors closed tight at night. It’s where her love of the mysterious and wonderful came from.

Dianne now lives in the beautiful Willamette Valley of Oregon with her incredibly patient husband, who puts up with the endless hours she spends hunched over the keyboard letting her characters play. She says Oregon’s raindrops are the perfect setting in which to write. There’s something about being cooped up in the house with a fire crackling on the hearth and a cup of hot coffee warming her hands, which kindles her imagination.

Currently, Dianne works as a floral designer in a locally-owned gift shop. Which is the perfect job for her. When not writing, she can express herself through the rich colors and textures of flowers and foliage.

Where to find the author:

 


Tour Dates & Stops:

15-Mar: BFD Book Blog, Man2ManTastic, 3 Chicks After Dark, Full Moon Dreaming

16-Mar:A.M. Leibowitz, Velvet Panic, Louise Lyons, Mikky’s World of Books, Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews

17-Mar: Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, Nephy Hart,

Oh My Shelves

18-Mar: Alpha Book Club, Havan Fellows, The Dark Arts, Making It Happen, Bayou Book Junkie

19-Mar: Outrageous Heroes, Inked Rainbow Reads, Love Bytes

21-Mar: Elin Gregory, MM Good Book Reviews, Happily Ever Chapter, MM Book Escape

Final

Giveaway

Enter to win a Rafflecopter Prize: $10 ARe gift card.  Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.  Link and prize provided by the author and Pride Promotions.

 

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Its Love and War with ‘Between Ghosts’ by Garrett Leigh (Giveaway)

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Between Ghosts by Garrett Leigh
R
iptide Publishing
Cover art by Garrett Leigh

Read an excerpt/buy it here

About Between Ghosts

In 2003, journalist Connor Regan marched through London to add his voice to a million others, decrying the imminent invasion of Iraq. Eight months later, his brother, James, was killed in action in Mosul.

Three years on, Connor finds himself bound for Iraq to embed with an elite SAS team. He sets his boots on the ground looking for closure and solace—anything to ease the pain of his brother’s death. Instead he finds Sergeant Nathan Thompson.

Nat Thompson is a veteran commander, hardened by years of combat and haunted by the loss of his best friend. Being lumbered with a civilian is a hassle Nat doesn’t need, and he vows to do nothing more than keep the hapless hack from harm’s way.

But Connor proves far from hapless, and too compelling to ignore for long. He walks straight through the steel wall Nat’s built around his heart, and when their mission puts him in mortal danger, Nat must lay old ghosts to rest and fight to the death for the only man he’s ever truly loved.

About Garret Leigh

Garrett Leigh is a British writer and book designer, currently working for Dreamspinner Press, Loose Id, Riptide Publishing, and Black Jazz Press. Her protagonists will always always be tortured, crippled, broken, and deeply flawed. Throw in a tale of enduring true love, some stubbly facial hair, and a bunch of tattoos, and you’ve got yourself a Garrett special.

When not writing, Garrett can generally be found procrastinating on Twitter, cooking up a storm, or sitting on her behind doing as little as possible. That, and dreaming up new ways to torture her characters. Garrett believes in happy endings; she just likes to make her boys work for it.

Garrett also works as a freelance cover artist for various publishing houses and independent authors under the pseudonym G.D. Leigh. For cover art info, please visit blackjazzpress.com.

Social media:

http://garrettleigh.com
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Garrett_Leigh
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/garrettleighbooks
Cover art enquiries: blackjazzdesign@gmail.com – See more at: http://www.riptidepublishing.com/authors/garrett-leigh#sthash.t8NCJ3A0.dpuf

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Giveaway

Leave a comment for a chance to win $20 in Riptide credit. Entries close at midnight, Eastern time, on March 19, 2016. Contest is NOT restricted to U.S. Entries. Thanks for following the tour, and don’t forget to leave your contact info!

Its Release Day for the Riverdance Anthology (excerpts and giveaway)

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Riverdance Anthology
Authors: L. J. Hamlin, Asta Idonea, Dale Cameron Lowry, Morwen Navarre, Lynn Townsend.
Cover Artist: Kris Norris
Publisher: Torquere Press
Release Date: March 15, 2016

Book/Buy Links: Torquere

Synopsis

Riverdance is a compilation of all things Irish. From fae flitting hither and thither trying to trick their quarry, to a modern-day Highland games, complete with caber tossing and traditional dance, our romantic compilation of Celtic tales and lore are sure to remind readers that love is the pot-o-gold at the end of the rainbow.

Morwen Navarre brings us The Sidhe’s Apprentice, a tale of a young man desperately wanting to be a wizard, like his grandfather, who never banked on falling in love with his mentor. In Finding Balance, Lynn Townsend sets readers in the middle of the Highland games, as well as between two former lovers who need to forgive and forget. L. J. Hamline’s tale, Luck of the Irish, tells of some lucky days that turn into lucky nights. Born of Fire, Dale Cameron Lowry’s offering, brings readers the abduction of a human by fairies, and the greatest lesson of all: love is more than superficial. Finally, Asta Idonea’s The First Swallow of Spring chronicles an annual pilgrimage to the land of the fae, and how the wiley lord tries to keep a human for his own.

Heat Level: 5
Pairing: M/M, F/F
Length: 32,900 words
Categories: BDSM, Contemporary, Erotica, Fantasy, Humor, M/M Romance, Paranormal

Excerpt

From Morwen Navarre’s The Sidhe’s Apprentice:

There was nothing for it but to follow the path which Master Lorc·n had indicated. Master Lorc·n’s parting words had not been comforting, and Alistair had a feeling this Master Cian·n would be no warmer.

Alistair took the opportunity to look around as he walked, wondering how much magic was required to maintain this place. The transition was completely seamless, as though the door to the embassy had been a gate to another realm. None of the whispers had even hinted at the existence of such a portal, though, and Alistair was not too sure he would want to ask. The illusion was flawless, the sky a pearly glow above the tall treetops. The light was softer than sunlight, but far brighter than moonlight, and he wondered if it was designed to duplicate the sun of the Sidhe realm. He could hear faint birdsong, and there was a gentle breeze that brought the scent of honeysuckle with it. If this was Sidhe magic, he wanted to learn all he could.

The stream was not very wide, where Alistair approached it. A single stride would take him over it, but he had been told to wait, and not to cross it. Obedience was mandatory for a student of the Sidhe. That much was common knowledge. There was no place to sit, so Alistair stood and waited. He let his thoughts drift, trying to imagine what it would be like to live in this tranquil place for a year and a day.

“Are you contemplating running away? I wouldn’t recommend it.”

The speaker was Sidhe, and there was a definite lilt to his English. Alistair felt his cheeks grow warm, and he bowed hastily as he straightened up. He swallowed as he got a good look at the speaker on the other side of the stream.

Author Bio
Publisher of GLBT fiction books:  http://www.torquerepress.com to offer the finest in erotic LGBT romance available.
Author Links:
Torquere Facebook Page | Torquere on Twitter |Torquere Blog
Torquere on Pinterest | Torquere Website

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Giveaway

Rafflecopter Prize: eBook copy of the Riverdance Anthology. Must be 18 years or older to enter.

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Don’t Miss Out on the End of the Series with Bound (Guards of Folsom, Book Five) by SJD Peterson (giveaway)

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Bound (Guards of Folsom #5) by S.J.D. Peterson
D
reamspinner Press
Cover Artist Paul Richmond
Sales Link: Dreamspinner Press ebook & Paperback

Guards of Folsom: Book Five

Tek Cain & Jamie Ryan work at the Guards of Folsom BDSM club. After two years on the run from their old motorcycle club and the Feds, Tek & Jamie are finally able to relax and enjoy their new life in New York City. But the past won’t stay buried, and when the MC resurfaces, it’s Jamie who pays the price. Tek and the rest of the members at the Guards of Folsom must work together to get back one of their own.

In this, the final installment in the Guards of Folsom series, everyone must come together, bound as one in their quest to find Jamie and bring him home once and for all.

From the Author…

Wow, what a wild ride this series has been. It all began with the Whispering Pines series and Ty’s lack of a Happily Ever After. I couldn’t have known when I decided to write Riveted (a free read for Ty & Blake) that it would lead to yet another series, but I’m so glad it did. I fell in love with the scatter brained Micah, wept for Mason, and cheered for Aiden. Tek & Jamie? What can I say, other than, I lurve them so hard. Thank you to all those who took this journey with me. I hope it was as rewarding to read as it was for me to write.

~Hugs~

Jo

Exclusive Excerpt

A man Tek didn’t recognize rushed into the club dressed all in black, but it wasn’t the black attire that normally was seen within the walls of the Guards of Folsom. This guy was medium in stature, head shaved, and he looked more like a member of a tactical unit, right down to the weapons on his belt, than any kind of player. He spotted Blake standing near the bar talking to Ty and made a beeline for him. So did Tek.

“Sir, we’ve got the intel you requested.”

Definitely military or law enforcement, but the realization didn’t cause Tek a shred of nervousness. “Where are they?” he demanded.

Lawman raked his eyes up and down Tek, sizing him up, no doubt.

“It’s okay, Nick,” Blake said and pointed toward Tek. “This is Tek Cain. It’s his partner that’s gone missing.”

“Sorry to hear that,” Nick acknowledged with a nod. He then pulled out a small notebook from his pocket. “They’re on the fourth floor, apartment 4012. I got a positive ID on one Rocco Lundy. There is one other male subject with—”

“Was it Cole?” Tek asked, the surge of anticipation tingling down his spine.

“The subject was not identified. Caucasian male, five feet eleven inches, approximately one hundred eighty pounds, dark hair and beard, and has sleeve tattoos, which include a skull and crossbones, dice, and the Tasmanian Devil.”

“That’s Cole,” Tek responded with complete assuredness. He’d been about eight, maybe nine, when Cole had gotten Taz on his arm. It was the first time he’d watched someone get inked. Fuck, Jamie had been there too. Tek spun and headed for the door.

“Hey, where the hell you going?” Blake called out.

“I’m going to get Jamie,” he responded without turning around or slowing down.

At the door, his arm was grabbed, halting his movements. “What the hell, man?” he asked when he turned to face Blake. Tek jerked his arm free. “This isn’t open for discussion.”

“I’m not asking you not to go, I’m asking you to wait one second and think about the plan.”

“I know about the fucking plan, I came up with it,” Tek snapped in irritation.

“You came up with a new one you didn’t share with the rest of us? Because the last time we talked, there was no mention of you rushing over there alone with guns blazing.”

“Yeah, plans change. I’m not leaving him there a second longer.”

“I agree with Tek,” Ty offered. “I know I wouldn’t be able to wait. Plus there is more of us than there are of them.”

“Not helping, Ty,” Blake huffed.

“Sir, if I can interrupt here,” Nick interjected. “You won’t be going through the front door without announcing yourself. There is a security guard on duty. I suggest taking the service elevator they’re using to take building supplies to the apartments being renovated. It’s how I obtained access.”

“See there, Tek, those are the kind of details we need first.” Blake nodded to the bar. “Let’s go work out the minute details, find out what else Nick discovered, and then we will go get Jamie, okay?”

Tek once again found himself hesitating when everything in his body screamed to run out that fucking door, consequences be damned, and get Jamie the hell away from Rocco. It nearly overwhelmed him, his body shaking with the need to act.

Meet Jo Peterson

SJD Peterson, better known as Jo, hails from Michigan. Not the best place to live for someone who hates the cold and snow. When not reading or writing, Jo can be found close to the heater checking out NHL stats and watching the Red Wings kick a little butt. Can’t cook, misses the clothes hamper nine out of ten tries, but is handy with power tools.

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AUTHORS AMAZON PAGE

Giveaway: 

Any Ebook copy from my back list.  Must be 18 years of age or older.  Leave a comment below.