Frightfully Fun and Ghoulish Ways of October. This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Frightfully Fun and Ghoulish Ways of October

The countdown to Halloween and All Hallows Eve continues.  Last minute decorations are still being put in place and costumes touches hang in the air.  Decisions! Decisions! Oh, what fun!  Scary movies to see at the theatre or to stream.  Get that popcorn ready!  Even Beetlejuice the play is here in town.

Carved pumpkin contests abound!  Love those!  I just got my pumpkins and now have design decisions to make as well.  Free hand?  Draw out picture and lines to follow?  Hmmm…don’t know.  There are certainly some genius designs out there. What imaginations to jumpstart mine.  Take a peek at some of these.

 

 

 

Do you carve pumpkins?  Which way do you go?  Traditional?  Wacky?  Nerd? Scary? Or for the laugh?  Let us know? Maybe send us a pic if you are so inclined.  And Happy Halloween Early.

More Frightfully Scary Stories and Tales of Horror that Go Boo for You:

🎃From H.B.:

Love the pics but I’ve never celebrated Halloween and I don’t know anyone who goes all out for the decor. Even the homes in my old neighborhood and new don’t really celebrate but I do like when I walk into a store and they have tried to do some decoration but also sell the items.

Other books I’ve thought of that can be a good Halloween read are the
Gothika Anthologies released by DSP
In a Dark Wood by Josh Lanyon
Mummy Dearest by Josh Lanyon
All In Fear: A Collection of Six Horror Tales by Steve Berman, et al
Unhinged by Rick R. Reed

🎃From P.R.:

Well, what does make me shiver my timbers? First, I have to care about the characters being threatened. The threat has be believable, and sometimes mysterious, that adds some suspense/tension. And then, people draw this line at different places, but it has to be monstrous without being too gruesome. With that in mind …
– A mysterious killer on the loose in my home state of TX (and historical at that):
THE GERMAN by Lee Thomas
– Speaking of TX, and who can resist this mashup?”
COWBOYS & VAMPIRES by Hank Edwards
– One where monsters are done well, with an edge:
MONSTER (Vertex #1) by Soren Summers
– Another mysterious monster, set in a fav historical time for me, the NW Territory:
MAN & MONSTER (The Savage Land #2) by Michael Jensen

I’m also throwing in Ground of Insurrection (Wizard Wars, #1) by Mell Eight because there’s nothing like a living prairie that likes to eat people.  More to come.  Almost done.  Only a short time left to get those titles in.

What makes a story go Boo for You?  And which ones have?

You have until the end of the month to get your recs into us.  I’m sure the authors and publishers will be releasing titles all month.  Let us know what new ones you find.  We will be doing the same.  Gift certs will be given out in our Horror or Boo For You Title Rec Giveaway!

And now onto what’s happening at our blog this week!

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, October 21:

  • Frightfully Fun and Ghoulish Ways of October.
  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
  • Austin/Man Up Series by Felice Stevens Audio Tour
  • A Caryn Review: Single White Incubus by EJ Russell
  • A Stella Review : Falling Into Love by Nell Iris & Kris T Bethke

Monday, October 22:

  •  Panther Queen, by Amir Lane – release day blast
  • Release Blitz Tour – I’ve Been Careless With A Delicate Thing
  • Cover reveal Addis on the Inside by Annabelle Jay
  • Promo Laura Lascarso
  • A Lucy Review At Long Last: Scott and Preston by Shawn Lane
  • A MelanieM Audiobook Review: Crocus (Bonfires #2) by Amy Lane and Nick J. Russo (Narrator)
  • A Free Dreamer Review Priest & Pariahs (Centauri Survivors Second Chance Chronicles #3) by J. Alan Veerkamp

Tuesday, October 23:

  • Blog Post – Sarah Hadley Brook – Gateway To Love\
  • Book Blast – Omega Challenge by Quinn Michaels
  • BLITZ One Step Back by Edie Danford
  • Book Blast: Shadow Voice Author: Mary Rundle
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: Every Other Weekend by TA Moore
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Release Day Review: Hiding the Moon (Fish Out of Water #4) by Amy Lane
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Expeditions, Estimation, and Other Dangerous Pastimes (Claimings #4) by Lyn Gala

Wednesday, October 24:

  • Release Blitz – An Erie Collection – V.L. Locey
  • Blog Tour Pisces Hooks Taurus (Signs of Love #4) by Anyta Sunday
  • Review Tour – – Fling by Baylin Crow
  • An Ashlez Review: The Story of Us by Barbara Elsborg
  • An Alisa Audio Review: BFF by K.C. Wells
  • A MelanieM Review: Green Death by Madeleine Ribbon

Thursday,  October 25:

  • In the Spotlight Tour and Giveaway: Single White Incubus by EJ Russell
  • Man Up Series – Franke by Felice Stevens Audio Tour
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:  Honeymoon For One by Keira Andrews
  • A Lila Review: Ben’s Bakery and the Hanukkah Miracle by Penelope Peters
  • A Stella Release Day Review: Strays by A.J. Thomas
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Prerelease Review: The Bones Beneath My Skin by T.J. Klune

Friday, October 26:

  • Release Blitz – Dark Rivers by Morgan Brice
  • A Lucy Release Day Review:  Embracing Fate (A Series of Fates #2) by C.C. Dado
  • A MelanieM Review:  Faith (Graphene #2) by Archie Hellshire
  • A Free Dreamer Review: Roam (Roam #1) by Dez Schwartz
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review:  A Dance of Water and Air (Elemental Magicae, #1) by Antonia Aquilante
  • An Ashez Review: An Erie Collection by V.L. Locey

Saturday, October 27:

  • Cover Reveal – Irresistible Indigo (D’Vaire, Book 9) by Jessamyn Kingley
  • A Stella Review: All He Ever Needed by Cate Ashwood
  • A Stella Review “no way out” by Eric Alan Westfall

 

 

In the Audio Spotlight: Austin (Man Up series) by Felice Stevens and Kale Williams (Narrator) ~ excerpt

austin tour banner

AUSTIN

MAN UP SERIES

FELICE STEVENS

M/M ROMANCE

AUDIO RELEASE DATE: 08.29.18

Austin-400x600 (1)

COVER DESIGN: REESE DANTE

NARRATOR: KALE WILLIAMS

BLURB

I can make it by myself. The only rules I follow are my own. Love? I learned that lesson the hard and painful way—it wasn’t right for me. Sure, sometimes it gets lonely, and I wish I had a man to hold. Who’d love me. Want me. Treat me with respect. Yeah, I dance in a club, but that doesn’t mean I’m easy. Or a fool. So you, sitting in the back, watching me? I know what you want. You want me. In your bed. Under you. But I say no. It doesn’t matter how many presents you give me.

I’m not falling for you. I know who you are. But you don’t know me. You don’t know Austin.

Austin Teaser 3

Austin Teaser 2

Austin Teaser 1

EXCERPT

“Stop mooning over him, Austin. He’s taken.”

I gave my boss Tyler one last look from beneath the dark curls hanging in my eyes and let out a sigh as melancholy as I felt. “Don’t I know it. Look at them. The perfect couple. And Marcus never takes his eyes off Ty. I wouldn’t either if he were my man.”

Frankie Marone, the other dance instructor and my best friend, poked me in the side. “And you know Marcus hates it when you drool over Ty. You told me that yourself. So let’s finish up here and get over to the club.”Frankie’s brown eyes sparkled. “It’s margarita night, and you know that means big tips for us. Especially you, when your Mr. Tall, Dark, and Doesn’t Ever Speak shows up.”

We gathered our bags and went to change in the locker room Tyler had built in the back of the dance studio. I ran a critical eye over myself in the mirror, poofed out my curls a bit, then slicked on a little lip gloss. “Do you think I need eyeliner?”

“Girl, you know that man likes you done up. Here, take mine.”Frankie handed me his eyeliner, and I used it around the corners of my eyes, giving them a cat’s-eye tilt at the edge. “Didn’t he send you some sexy things to wear after the last time you danced for him?”

Heat crept up my face at the memory of the silky jockstrap and scented oils the mysterious stranger had sent me backstage at Man Up, the club where Frankie and I usually danced most nights. It wasn’t what I wanted to do with my life, but the money was great, and I did what I could to get by.

I gave Frankie back the eyeliner. “Here. And yeah, I dunno. He probably won’t show.”

“But you’re wearing it just in case he does, right?”

I bit my lip and nodded, then pulled down my leggings to reveal a peek of red silky material lined with crystals.

“Jesus, that’s hot. And expensive, I bet.”

“I know.”After the package had arrived, I looked up the jock online and found it at a boutique in Chelsea specializing in high-end menswear. “It’s a hundred bucks.

“Holy shit.”Frankie’s jaw dropped. “He wants you.”

It had turned chilly outside, and I tugged on my fur-topped boots. “I don’t mind a little snuggle here and there, and I’m not against saying a special thank-you with a kiss, but there’s a limit. You know what I mean.

Frankie zipped up his jacket and pulled his furry hood over his head. “If he wants to be your sugar daddy, you tell him yes. Get yourself set up good with a nice place and a bank account. I would. You don’t need to keep shaking your ass for those guys always grabbing your junk.”

“I’m not a whore, Frankie. I’m not selling myself. Right now, I love dancing and teaching the kids, but I have plans. And maybe someday, in the future, a real boyfriend.”

“And you’re a great dancer. The kids love you.”Frankie shrugged as we walked back into the studio in time to see Marcus kissing Tyler with a passion I’d never experienced. It made my heart and my dick throb. “And as for boyfriends, they’re nothing but trouble.”

Felice Stevens Logo

Felice Stevens has always been a romantic at heart. While life is tough, she believes there is a happy ending for everyone. She started reading traditional historical romances as a teenager, then life and law school got in the way. It wasn’t until she picked up a copy of Bertrice Small and became swept away to Queen Elizabeth’s court that her interest in romance novels was renewed.

But somewhere along the way, her reading shifted to stories of men falling in love. Once she picked up her first gay romance, she became so enamored of the character-driven stories and the overwhelming emotion there was no turning back.

Felice lives in New York City with her husband and two children. Her day begins with a lot of caffeine and ends with a glass or two of red wine. Although she practices law, she daydreams of a time when she can sit by a beach and write beautiful stories of men falling in love. Although there is bound to be some angst along the way, a Happily Ever After is always guaranteed.

Twitter: https://twitter.com/FeliceStevens1

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/felicestevens/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8432880.Felice_Stevens

Instagram: https://instagram.com/FeliceStevens

Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/felicestevensauthor?ref=hl

Newsletter:   http://felicestevens.us8.list-manage2.com/subscribe?u=d43061d90bf2256eb322ed69f&id=586ac8fa57

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What Makes A Scary Story? This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

What Makes A Scary Story?

Is it an outright gore fest?  Or is it the chill that builds?  The scream that shatters the night?  Or the quiet that settles softly, quickly before it becomes apparent all noises have ceased…except for the sounds of someone breathing?

If you are talking about a romance with a touch of the dread, is one member of the couple in  danger or both? Contemporary, paranormal, supernatural or does it even matter?  Does it have clowns?  *Shudders*

What’s your cuppa chilling horror?  Do you even have one?

Mine have always been the latter, no not clowns, never clowns.  A twist on the normal where suddenly things are just a little bit off, then come a skittering of beetles….enough to send shivers up your spine but not enough to make you put down the story.  That’s why I have always loved the lyrical, almost poetic works like Lily or Earthly Concerns by Xavier Axelson where the horror is quiet and unearthly. Or The Reunion by M.D. Neu which layer by layer slowly unfolded a remarkable truth.

Other reviewers here  have loved the scary tales that John Inman has occasionally written.  Others fall into the shifter romances which for me aren’t really horror or scary tbh.

What are your criteria for a story to fall into a horror or scare genre?  I was scanning through various writing blogs  and most agree that there are 8 elements for horror:

8 Elements Of A Horror Story
  • Gothic elements. Things put in a story meant to scare you.
  • Monster. Antagonist.
  • Protagonist. Someone who battles the monster.
  • Motivation. Why the monster is what it is.
  • Setting/atmosphere. Over all feeling you get.
  • Foreshadowing. Gives clue on what is going to happen.
  • Mood. The readers feeling as they are reading the story.
  • Suspense.

Amazing how that can apply to contemporary stories where the monsters are human beings who do the most atrocious things. Real monsters are everywhere unfortunately.  However, back to things that go bump in the night.

Most of us don’t think about this when reading our stories.  We think about the end product.  How did we feel reading the story?  Did we get the shivers?  Were we concerning for the couple/person involved?  Did the events/ending upset us?  Did the tale continue to linger with us long after the story was done?  I think we can agree that most great monsters and stories live on and on because their creators have done their job extremely well and their stories continue to resonate generation after generation.  Just look at Frankenstein and Dracula!

So getting back to our current stories or just plain stories.  Which ones have continued to resonate with you?  Or what new ones have found a home in your collection?

What makes a story go Boo for You?  And which ones have?

You have until the end of the month to get your recs into us.  I’m sure the authors and publishers will be releasing titles all month.  Let us know what new ones you find.  We will be doing the same.  Gift certs will be given out in our Horror or Boo For You Title Rec Giveaway!

 

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, October 7:

  • What Makes A Scary Story?
  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
  • BLOG TOUR: Rebuilding Hope by Jessie G
  • Release Blitz: BURN (Witchbane #1.5) by Morgan Brice

Monday, October 8:

  • Book Blast – A Pride Anthem by Rob Browatzke
  • In the Spotlight Tour and Giveaway:  TOO HOT! by Avery Giles
  • Blog Tour Date His Instant Family by Rheland Richmond
  • A Lucy Review: A Pride Anthem by Rob Browatzke
  • An Alisa Review: Square One (Under The Uniform #7) by JJ Harper
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Craft Brew (Trouble Brewing #2) by Layla Reyne
  • An Ashlez Review: Murderous Twins by Edward Kendrick

Tuesday, October 9:

  • BLOG TOUR Craft Brews by Layla Reyne
  • Hearts Untouched by Andrew Grey Book Tour
  • Release Blitz – Lone Wolf – Anna Martin
  • Release Blitz –  From The Ashes by C.M. Valencourt
  • An Alisa Review: Ginger and the Wolf by Kerry McBoyd
  • A Free Dreamer Review: SYN Consulting (Dragon War Chronicles #1) by A.G. Carothers
  • A Caryn Review: Hard Truths by Alex Whitehall

Wednesday, October 10:

  • Review Tour – Leta Blake – Any Given Lifetime
  • New Release Blitz: Out in the End Zone by Lane Hayes
  •  Promo David C. Dawson
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: Heart Untouched (Hearts Entwined #3) by Andrew Grey
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Texas Charm (Aberrant Magic series#6) by Lyn Gala
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:  Any Given Lifetime by Leta Blake

Thursday, October 11:

  • Release Blitz – Take It All – Steamy Encounters Collection by Quin Perin
  • Release Blitz – Sam Burns’ Adder and Willow
  •  Promo Andrew Grey
  • A Lila Release Day Review: Long Black Cadillac by BA Tortuga
  • A MelanieM Review: Grasmere Cottage Mystery Trilogy by Dahlia Donovan
  • A Lila Review: His Pagan Love by Wayne Mansfield
  • A Stella Review: Falling Into Love by Nell Iris & Kris T Bethke

Friday, October 12:

  • Release Blitz – Love’s Trials by Janice Jarrell
  • Dreamspun Promo SJD Peterson
  • Review Tour – Neve Wilder’s Center Of Gravity
  • A MelanieM Review: Love’s Trials (Revolutionary Heart #2) by Janice Jarrell
  • An Ali Review: Sadistic Sherlock (Ward Security #4) by Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliott
  • A MelanieM Review: Center Of Gravity (Nook Island #1) by Neve Wilder

Saturday, October 13:

  • A Stella Release Day Review: Strays by A.J. Thomas
  • Blog Post Request – Center Of Gravity (Nook Island #1) by Neve Wilder

A Lila Audiobook Review: Cowboy in the Crosshairs (Turquoise, New Mexico) by BA Tortuga and Narrator: Dorian Bane

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

Once upon a time, a prince lived in a magical kingdom called Turquoise, New Mexico.

Well, really, TJ is a small-town police chief. Every Friday he holds court in the diner with the local holy roller, the art colonists, and the horsey people. But the Benes, who own the rodeo company, keep to themselves. TJ knows, because he was once hot and heavy with the oldest Bene son.

When Wacey Bene gets trampled by a remuda and comes home to heal, he’s none too happy to run into TJ, or his two little boys and their momma. The story might end there—if it wasn’t for some pesky bastard trying to kill Wacey.

The law steps in, and the townsfolk are cross about somebody messing with one of their own.

But once the bad guy is put away, can TJ and Wacey make their place in this wild and eccentric town a permanent one?

Cowboy in the Crosshairs is a western comedy with a second chance love story at its center. Everything from Wacey’s name, and those of his siblings, to his mishaps with TJ, added to the comedic style the author often uses. If you are looking for drama, this book is not it.

What it really is… an escape from a traditional cowboy romance. It’s about rodeo, family legacy, and missed opportunities. It’s easy to cheer for Wacey and TJ, and the whole cast added to the out of the ordinary story. I enjoyed their families and their crazy neighbors.

The author did an excellent job bringing the story full circle from the moment the main characters saw each other again, to the hints of their life together after their HEA. The easy love between Wacey and TJ was refreshing and how much they enjoyed each other kept the reader engaged.

This is a good start to a new series. A bit out of the ordinary, but good enough for an easy read day.

I’m not a big fan of Dorian Bane and this narration didn’t help the cause. Yes, it was western, but it took away from the characters. Some of them were too much of a stereotype. I felt like I was listening to The Dukes of Hazzards’ narrator; it worked in some areas, but others were ridiculous.

The cover by Bree Archer fits the story and the series. I’m not sure if the cowboy is Wacey or TJ, though.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner | iTunes | Audible

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Dorian Bane
Length: 6 hours 23 minutes
Published: August 16, 2018 (Audio Edition) by Dreamspinner Press
ASIN: B07GJ3VGS2
Edition Language: English

Series: Turquoise, New Mexico
Book #1: Cowboy in the Crosshairs

Falling Frightfully Into October! This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Falling Frightfully Into October!

 

How I love this month! Or to be more specifically the month of October, only days away!  It’s a time of changing leaves, the arrival of fall, hopefully a crispness of air, and of course, that favorite  of holidays Halloween!  All Hallows Eve. More about the holiday later this month.  But it’s also time to think about all those lovely stories that carry a tinge of horror, a bite of fright, or a element of scare!

So all month I’ll be recommending series and stories to read.  I hope you will be chiming in too.  We need our Frightening Reads Recommendations!

So to get us started heres some that I’ve rec’d from the past:

From Missouri Dalton, author of the recent releases

The Hanged Man’s Ghost (The Night Wars, #1)
The Night Shift (The Night Wars #2)
The Hellfire Legacy

Guidebook Series

Vampirism And You! (Guidebook 01) ~ my review here
Necromancy and You (Guidebook 02) ~ my review here

Pretty Monsters coverPeek A Boo coverTriple Feature coverJosh of the Damned The Final Checkout

Author Andrea Speed:

Josh of the Damned Series – humor and the Supernatural -killer combo along with outstanding covers

Josh of the Damned Triple Feature #1 (Josh of the Damned #3) by Andrea Speed
Pretty Monsters (Josh of the Damned, #1)
Peek-a-Boo (Josh of the Damned, #2)
Night of the Dust Bunnies (Josh of the Damned, #3.5)
Josh of the Damned Triple Feature #2: The Final Checkout (Josh of the Damned #4)
Merry Christmas, Josh! (Josh of the Damned #4.5)
Josh of the Damned: The Complete Collection

The Mingled Destinies of Crocodiles and Men by Eric Arvin

And finally, two short tales of such lyrical elegance and narrative poetry I read them over and over in admiration.   These should be on everyone’s must read list!

End Street Detectives by RJ Scott and Amber Kell

Lily by Xavier Axelson

Sand and Ruin and Gold by Alexis Hall

Now from some previous years recommendations:

In A Dark Wood civerKraken coverWinter Kills coverDown cover

 

 

 

 

 

In a Dark Wood by Josh Lanyon: If you want something scary-creepy to make you cower under the blankets and double-check the doors and windows. Look no further. Who knew Lanyon could rival King, in this I see the making of the Master of M/M horror. And this horror buff wants more of this style of writing from Lanyon please.

Winter: Haunted Heart by Josh Lanyon: For those who want more of haunted-creepy, Lanyon has you covered there as well. Check out this lovely ghostly mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed. The audio version’s narrator is excellent if you’re into audiobooks.

Kraken by M. Caspian: Ready for the creature feature now guys? Then check this one out. It takes creepy to a whole new level. You know the slimy, make-your-skin crawl kind. *shiver*

Down by Ally Blue: Features violence and death trapped seven fathoms below the deep. Creatures with glowing purple eyes and sharp teeth and a horror that could annihilate the human race-EEK! Tantalizing beginning and an ending that circled nicely back to it. The author’s writing style didn’t work well for me personally, but many others loved it and the story is most certainly eerie and quite unique.

As for favorite scary reads…
Slasherazzi by Daniel A. Kaine

Favorite shifters…
The Tameness of the Wolf series by Kendall McKenna

Hainted by Jordan L. Hawk

Spirit by John Inman

What are you reading this All Hallows Eve?  We will be adding to the list all month long and gift certificates will be given out!

 

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, September 30:

  • Falling Frightfully Into October!
  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
  • New Release Blitz for Sadistic Sherlock (Ward Security #4) by Joceylynn Drake and Rinda Elliott
  • Cover Reveal – Burn (Witchbane #1.5) by Morgan Brice
  • A MelanieM Review: Building Forever by Kelly Jensen
  • A Stella Review The Thousand Smiles of Nicholas Goring (Butterfly Hunter #3) by Julie Bozza

Monday, October 1:

  • Cover Reveal Commitment Collection Box Set by Karen Botha
  • Dreamspun Promo Kim Fielding on The Spy’s Love Song (Stars from Peril)
  • Promo Tara lain on Love You So Special
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Surviving the Apocalypse by Tinnean
  • A Lucy Review From the Ashes by C.M. Valencourt
  • A MelanieM Review: A Taste Of Agapi by Chris Ethan
  • A Stella Review: Holiday Tales from Fairyland by Joe Cosentino

Tuesday, October 2:

  • BLOG TOUR THRALL by Avon Gale and Roan Parrish
  • Blog Tour With a Twist by K. Evan Coles and Brigham Vaughn
  • TOUR To Save His Prince by Hurri Cosmo
  •  BLITZ A Dance of Water and Air by Antonia Aquilante
  • A Jeri Review: Thrall by Avon Gale and Roan Parrish
  • A Lila Audiobook Review Cowboy in the Crosshairs (Turquoise, New Mexico) by BA Tortuga
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Release Day Review: The Spy’s Love Song (Stars from Peril) by Kim Fielding

Wednesday, October 3:

  • Release Blitz – Claw Marks & Card Games by Maz Maddox
  • Cover Reveal Tour – V.L. Locey – One-On-One (Cayuga Cougars #5)
  • Review Tour Garrett Leigh – Lucky
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady  Review: Of Sunlight and Stardust by Riley Hart & Christina Lee
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Release Day Review: The Librarian’s Ghost (The Supers #2) by Sean Michael
  • An Ali Review: Lucky by Garrett Leigh
  • A Stella Review: All He Ever Needed by Cate Ashwood

Thursday, October 4:

  • Release Day Blitz Of Sunlight and Stardust by Riley Hart & Christina Lee
  • Spotlight Blog Tour and Giveaway for Hard Truths by Alex Whitehall
  • Release Blitz –  – Center Of Gravity by Neve Wilder
  • Dreamspun Promo Sean Michael
  • An Alisa Review: Promises: The Next Generation (Bounty Hunters #5) by A.E. Via
  • An Ashley Review: The Academy by Quinn Anderson
  • A MelanieM Review : Distant Cousins by Eric Huffbind

Friday, October 5:

  • Consulting: Dragon War Chronicles Book One by AG Carothers Blog Tour
  • Harmony Promo Russell J. Sanders
  • Review Tour – Ryker (Owatonna U Hockey #1) by R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey
  • A Free Dreamer Review: BURN (Witchbane #1.5) by Morgan Brice
  • A Free Dreamer Review:  Of Gallantry and Magic, by Alex Hintermann
  • A MelanieM Review: Ryker (Owatonna U Hockey #1) by R.J. Scott & V.L. Locey
  • An Ashley Review The Beach Brat by Louise Collins

Saturday, October 6:

  • Book Blast: The Selkie Prince and His Omega Guard
  • Release Blitz – Nell Iris – Us Again
  • Release Blitz *signal)Tour – Jay Northcote – Not Just Friends
  • A MelanieM Review: Claw Marks & Card Games (Stallion Ridge #2) by Maz Maddox
  • A Stella Review “no way out” by Eric Alan Westfall

 

 

A Lila Audio Review: His Leading Man by Ashlyn Kane and Kenneth Obi (Narrator)

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

Drew Beaumont is bored of the same old roles: action hero, supervillain, romantic lead. He’s not going to let a fresh gay buddy comedy languish just because they can’t find him the right costar. No, Drew bats his eyelashes and convinces everyone that the movie’s writer should play Drew’s not-so-straight man.

Aspiring writer Steve Sopol has never had a screenplay optioned. Now one of Hollywood’s hottest properties wants to be in a movie Steve hasn’t finished writing—and he wants Steve as his costar. Turns out the chemistry between them is undeniable—on and offscreen.

Drew swore off dating in the biz, but Steve is the whole package: sharp, funny, humble, and cute. For Steve, though, giving in to the movie magic means the end of the privacy he cherishes. Will the credits roll before their ride into the sunset?

His Leading Man is all about indie films and production. A behind the scene, step-by-step path from pre-production to award season. The book does read like the script for an independent movie. It’s one I could see in a Fine Art theater or a small company production. And that’s one of the reasons the story didn’t rate higher for me. The technicalities took away from me getting invested in Steve’s and Drew’s love story.

They did have an interesting chemistry and their personalities gelled well. I like the sass between them and how they worked together to further develop the script. I love the dog, Drew’s over the top personality, and Steve’s smart wit.

There’s not much drama in the story and everything has a simple solution. The secondary characters, especially Steve’s mom, added that humor to the story that made it unique. It’s an interesting story, different from most Dreamspun titles.

Kenneth Obi brings the story to life and adds to the characters. I’m glad he did the narration.

The cover by Bree Archer is generic to the Dreamspun Desires series. Not really enticing, but good enough for the story.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner | iTunes | Audible

Audiobook Details:

Narrator: Kenneth Obi
Length: 5 hours 22 minutes
Published: August 16, 2018 (Audio Edition) by Dreamspinner Press
ASIN: B07GJSKZMN
Edition Language: English

A MelanieM Audio Review: When Everything is Blue by Laura Lascarso and Michael Mola (Narrator)

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

When they were kids, Chris Mitcham rescued Theo from the neighborhood bullies and taught him how to “be cool.” Now, years later, Theo’s developed feelings for his best friend that arise at the most inopportune times. Theo hates lying to Chris, but in coming out, he might lose the one person who understands him best, a risk he’s not willing to take.

When a relationship with another young man goes south, Theo is forced to confront his own sexuality along with his growing attraction to Chris and his stunted, tenuous relationship with his father. Will Chris abandon Theo when he learns the truth, or will he stand by him in this tumultuous season of self-discovery?

In this quirky coming-of-age romance, Theo’s path to manhood is fraught with awkward firsts and a few haters, but also the unexpected comfort of a friend turned lover.

I fell hopelessly in love with this story, with Theo from the moment narrator  Michael Mola ushers  us into his gentle, brilliant interpretation of Laura Lascarso’s teenage character discovering his love for his long time best friend just before his birthday and beginning of school.

From the accent, to the confused musings that sound exactly like they would come from a teenager, When Everything is Blue by Laura Lascarso is that new adult coming out story that hits every high mark you expect in such a novel and rarely get.

The characters are beautifully nuanced, believable, and ones that grab at your heart.  Theo’s home situation rings especially true where the father has a new younger family (also a layered portrait where the new wife is struggling and deserving of our compassion), a twin sister desperate for her father’s approval, and a quietly supportive mother whose Puerto Rican culture has contributed so much  to who Theo is becoming as an adult.  It’s understated in some ways and so much of the character’s foundation at the same time.  A beautiful job by the author and the narrator as seen by the gorgeous accent given to Theo in the audiobook.

In tandem with Theo is Chris, Theo’s best friend,next door neighbor, and the boy he’s in love with.  They’ve been joined at the hip for years, surfing, skateboarding, just being with one another, until now Theo has his “sexual awakening” and knows that it’s Chris that he’s not only attracted to but in love with.  His straight best friend and that causes all sorts of confusion and heartache.

There is so much here in this story much of which I can’t relate without venturing into spoiler territory.  And that would be unfortunate for this is a journey I recommend readers take for themselves as I’m putting this book (and this audio version) on my Best of 2018 List.  The beauty of the friendship and support between Theo and Chris is one to be remembered and treasured.  The strength of Theo as a young man finding his way through coming out and establishing himself as a gay youth to his family, friends, and community is also not to be missed.

Lascarso has done a tremendous job in creating not only a compelling story of teenage young love and relationship dynamics (between love lovers, siblings, and family) but also in making a realistic unfortunate use of the media part of her storyline.  That is something teenagers deal with every day.  It’s almost routine and here the consequences have the same devastating effects.

Reading it?  Brings the issue vividly to life.  Hearing it?  The emotional toll becomes so cuttingly real, so heartbreaking that you immediately think of all the others dealing with the same issues in schools everywhere.

Never fear, the ending is as remarkable as the rest of this story.  How I love it so.

After having listened to the marvelous voice of  Michael Mola, his range of diversity when it comes to the cast of characters of this novel, I can’t imagine just reading When Everything is Blue by Laura Lascarso.  I highly recommend you listen to the audiobook version and settle in for an outstanding evening of contemporary listening pleasure.  As I said this one is high on my list for Best of for 2018.  After you listen, I believe you will agree as well.

Cover Artist: AngstyG.  Along with the perfect of the writing and the narration, we have the great cover which has major elements from the storyline and is just beautiful to look at.

Sales Links:  Dreamspinner Press | Amazon | Audible | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Audible Audio, Length 07:01:00

Published August 13th 2018 by Dreamspinner Press LLC (first published March 6th 2018)
Original TitleWhen Everything Is Blue
ASINB07G9RJBB7

Final Thoughts on Literary Titles ! and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Final Thoughts on Literary Titles !

Hard to believe that once again September is winding down.  Well, it has been an eventful month.  Hurricanes, flooding, and well, just plain old tons of rain pouring through my communities have a dampening effect  that washed away  my planned thoughts for posted blogs.  Maybe we will see those slip into October, one of my absolute favorite months!

Yes, its still pouring outside even as I type.  This will go down as the wettest two, maybe three months recorded for our area.  The mold being reported is off the charts.  I will try to locate plants that love water for the backyard.  Submergents anyone?

Meanwhile back to some wonderful suggestions for our own literary days of the month.  Remember we had a giveaway going?

This was the contest:

Literary  Event Title Giveaway
If you all were to suggest a Literary Event for the calendar, what would it be?  An International LGBT Romance Story Day?  Triad in Lust Day?    Quiltbag Aliens HEA Day?  Give me some titles for our own special September literary events.  Let’s call it our LGBTQIA Literary  Event Title Giveaway!  Have your title chosen and we will have Stella set you up with a $10 gift card from Dreamspinners.   And here’s what you all came up with.

Here from Purple Reader:

It does look like quite the week lined up. I’ve seen a cpl of Free Lib boxes pop up in my neighborhood here in Chicago, and I had to smile. Some more ideas for days:
– GLBTQ Reads That Surprised You Day
– Older GLBTQ Readers Can Have Fun Too Day
– Read a GLBTQ Book Together Day
– Smile & Touch through Words Day
– Read the Book, Visit the Scene Day
– Honoring GLBTQ Books Where You Live Day
– GLBTQ Books That Changed the World Day
– Ok, I gotta stop this day, lol

From Ami: Read in Public Transportation Day

From H.B.  Donate a Book Day

From  Jen:

If I were to add another literary event to the calendar, it would be “Give a Kid a Book” day because reading meant so much to me as a kid and it means a lot to my kids. Reading can help kids in so many ways.

And also from P.R….Ok, This has been stimulating … and dangerous. Here goes with my imagination (I hope this is what you had in mind, because I had some fun here after not having time to think even scattered thoughts for a while):

Question Mark Day (Never Stop Asking Why)
Readers With Guilty Pleasures Day
Out-of-the-Limelight GLBTQ Genres Day (spreading the love to less popular genres)
Out of Your Comfort Zone Reading Day
Readers Reviewing Reviewers Day (let’s give THEM some feedback!)
Co-Authors Day
Pay It Forward with Words Day

Thank you everyone for participating.  Congratulations to Purple Reader on the winning ….many of them entries!  Please contact Stella about the gift certificate!
  Meanwhile, we have a great week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.  Great tours, great books (audio and ebook), and did you all notice we slipped in another new reviewer on you?  Welcome, Ashez, our new reviewer to Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words!
 It’s going to be quite the week.  So don’t miss out on a day of it.

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, September 23:

  • Release Day Blitz for Of Sunlight and Stardust by Riley Hart & Christina Lee (excerpt and giveaway)
  • Final Thoughts on Literary Titles and Our Giveaway
  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, September 24:

  • Dreamspun Bru Baker on Hiding in Plain Sight
  • Review Tour – Darcy by RJ Scott & Meredith Russell
  • BLOG TOUR Ride or Dye by Aimee Nicole Walker
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Counterpoint (Twisted Wishes #2) by Anna Zabo
  • A Stella Review: Of Dreams and Ceremonies (Butterfly Hunter #2) by Julie Bozza
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Darcy (Boyfriend for Hire #1) by R.J. Scott and Meredith Russell

Tuesday, September 25:

  • DSP Promo John Inman+giveaway
  • OWI TOUR grydscaen: beginnings Author: Natsuya Uesugi
  • RIPTIDE TOUR RUNNING BLIND, a Havoc novel by SE Jakes
  • A Lila Release Day Review: Dragonslayer (Twitterlight #1) by Matthew Lang
  • A Lucy Review: Hard Truths by Alex Whitehall
  • A Stella Release Day Review: Strays by A.J. Thomas

Wednesday, September 26:

  • DSP Publications Matthew Lang on Dragonslayer
  • Review Tour – C.J. Baty – Starting Over
  • The Hunt by J.M. Dabney & Davidson King (Michelle) Blog Tour and Review
  • Blog Tour “no way out” by Eric Alan Westfall
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: Guarding His Melody by Victoria Sue
  • A MelanieM Review: The Hunt by J.M. Dabney & Davidson King
  • An Alisa Review: Starting Over (The Knights Club #1) by C.J. Baty

Thursday,  September 27:

  • DSP Promo Xenia Melzer
  • Guarding His Melody (A standalone in the Enhanced World) by Victoria Sue
  • Release Blitz Tour – RJ Scott & V.L. Locey – Ryker
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Band Sinister by KJ Charles
  • A Free Dreamer Review: Witchbane by Morgan Brice
  • A Lila Audio Review: His Leading Man Author: Ashlyn Kane and Kenneth Obi (Narrator)
  • A Stella Review:  Falling Into Love by Nell Iris & Kris T Bethke

Friday, September 28:

  • BLOG TOUR COUNTERPOINT by Anna Zabo
  • Exclusive guest post – CJ Baty Starting Over
  • Release Blitz – A Taste of Agapi by Chris Ethani
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: Love you so Special by Tara Lain
  • A MelanieM Review: Building Forever by Kelly Jensen
  • A Stella Review: The Thousand Smiles of Nicholas Goring (Butterfly Hunter #3) by Julie Bozza

Saturday, September 29:

  • Release Blitz – Distant Cousins by Eric Huffbind
  • Release Blitz – Keira Andrews – Honeymoon For One

A Barb the Zany Old Lady Audiobook Review: Set Ablaze by K.C. Burn and Darcy Stark (narrator)

Rating 3 stars out of 5

This is one of those reviews I hate to do because I liked the story but hated the narration and that dropped my rating. Darcy Stark just does not have the voice(s) to do this story. That’s my personal opinion, of course, but his narration ruined my enjoyment. To be honest, by midpoint, I borrowed the book through the kindle lending feature so I could finish the story by reading it.

Firefighter Hayden Hurst isn’t in the closet, but he’s not one to remind his homophobic friends that their slurs are hurtful. That may be fine for him, but when his friend Miguel’s brother, Jez Bouchet, needs a temporary roommate, Hayden finds out what it is to be out and proud. The young, flamboyant dancer is deeply offended by some of the comments made by Hayden’s friends and vows to leave as soon as he can.

But of course, before that happens, the two act on their attraction for one another and Jez never leaves. In the meantime, his former boyfriend has continued his stalking behavior all the way from New York to LA. A pro hockey player, he’s managed to get himself traded to a West Coast team so he’ll be able to harass Jez nearer to home.

The mess eventually blows up. The guys and Jez’s little pug puppy, Fang, end up together and they all live happily ever after. Not without angst and drama and some hot sex scenes, though.

I’m going to give the author the benefit of doubt and recommend this story to those who enjoy a sweet, sometimes sappy romance, with an element of danger, insta-love, and a cute pug. I enjoyed the last chapters much more than the first that were narrated on audio, so I would not recommend the audio format.

The cover by Jennifer Vance features a handsome firefighter, bare-chested, tattooed and wearing firefighter pants, the suspenders dropped to the sides—a very attractive representation of Hayden.

Sales Links:  Dreamspinner Press | Amazon | Audible | iTunes

Audiobook Details:

Audible Audio, Unabridged
Published August 16th 2018 by Dreamspinner Press LLC (first published April 24th 2018)
ASINB07GHY8HS3
Edition Language English

Hurricanes, Flooding, and Donations! This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Hurricanes, Flooding, and Donations!

So I was going to talk more about books, donations, and how literary September was but once again the news and nature turned my attention away from my planned topic.  That would be Hurricane Florence currently battering the eastern coast of the United States, causing flooding at heights never seen before, mass destruction and death.  And more scheduled to come.
For many, we feel closely connected to what’s happening in the Carolinas.  Whether it’s through families, friends, even through favorite authors like Megan Derr, Shira Anthony, Sasha Derr (Less Than Three Press), and more who have been marking themselves safe if not waterlogged and stressed out at home or just through all the pictures that are grabbing at our hearts on the media casts, this storm once again brings home how quickly things can change for people.  From safe and secure to homeless and suffering in a night or a matter of days.  Because of wind and rain, or the power of water flooding into a neighborhood and your home.
Then the calls go out.  What can we do?
So once again, I’m pulling out the Charity Navigator, which help weeds out the scams and scammers to give you the best places to donate should you wish to help where help is so clearly needed:

Relief for Hurricane Florence

Highly-rated charities providing aid and support in the Carolinas

Relief for Hurricane Florence : Charity Navigator

Relief for Hurricane Florence Header Image
Hurricane Florence made landfall as a strong Category 1 storm in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Ahead of the storm, the North and South Carolina coasts were issued mandatory evacuation orders. And, meteorologists continue to warn of the potential for “life-threatening storm surge and rainfall” in the hours and days following the hurricane’s landfall.
The governors of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia made state of emergency declarations for their states earlier this week. More than 1,000 National Guard troops have been deployed ahead of the storm to help with preparations and recovery after the storm hits. Residents that are not being evacuated are being told to prepare for record rainfall, dangerous flooding, and prolonged power outages.
Charity Navigator has compiled a list of highly-rated organizations planning to respond in the aftermath of Hurricane Florence. These organizations will provide assistance to the communities affected by the storm. Donors can designate their donations to the cause on the organizations’ websites respectively, or use Charity Navigator’s Giving Basket to complete their donations. Please note, at this time it is not certain that all of these organizations will spend 100% of donations received on Hurricane Florence relief.*
You can find more information about inclusion on this list by visiting our ‘How Can My Charity Be Added To This List?‘ page.
We will return to our literary programming next week hopefully so don’t forget about our giveaway.  In the meantime Happy Reading and stay safe.
Literary  Event Title Giveaway
If you all were to suggest a Literary Event for the calendar, what would it be?  An International LGBT Romance Story Day?  Triad in Lust Day?    Quiltbag Aliens HEA Day?  Give me some titles for our own special September literary events.  Let’s call it our LGBTQIA Literary  Event Title Giveaway!  Have your title chosen and we will have Stella set you up with a $10 gift card from Dreamspinners.  Giveaway runs through September 22.
  Meanwhile, we have a great week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
A new reviewer, Chaos Moondrawn starts in with her first review this week, I’m reviewing the 11th book in the Boystown series from Marshall Thornton,  Lila is reviewing the new C.S. Poe, Barb has the new Cordelia Knightsbridge, and so much more.  It’s going to be quite the week.  So don’t miss out on a day of it.

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, September 16:

  • This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
  • Hurricanes, Flooding, and Donations!

Monday, September 16:

  • Harmony Promo Andi Van
  • Review Tour – His Heart Or Mine (The Individualists Series #1) by C S Joyce
  • BLITZ Hurri Cosmo – To Save His Prince
  • An Alisa Review: Homeless in Heaven by Deirdre O’Dare
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:  Saddle Up (Clean Slate Ranch #3) by A.M. Arthur
  • A MelanieM Review: His Heart Or Mine (The Individualists Series #1) by C S Joyce
  • A Stella Review:  Love at First Hate (A Porthkennack Novel ) by JL Merrow

Tuesday, September 17:

  • Release Blitz – Butterfly Hunter by Julie Bozza
  • Release Blitz – C.J. Baty – Starting Over
  • BLITZ Professor Adorkable by Edie Danford
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Release Day Review: Savior (415 Ink #2) by Rhys Ford
  • A Lucy Review: The Academy by Quinn Anderson
  • A Stella Review: Butterfly Hunter by Julie Bozza
  • A MelanieM Release Day Review: Hiding in Plain Sight (Camp H.O.W.L. #3) by Bru Baker

Wednesday, September 18:

  • Book Blast – Unwrapping His Heart by Karrie George
  • Book Blitz – Sugar Fighter – Charity Parkerson
  • Release Blitz Garrett Leigh – Lucky
  • Release Blitz The Heights by Amy Aislin
  • An Alisa Release Day Review: The Nerd and the Prince (Small-Town Dreams #1) by B.G. Thomas
  • An Ashez Review: Unwrapping His Heart (Hearts on the Line #1) by Karrie George
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Audiobook Review: Set Ablaze by K.C. Burn and Darcy Stark (narrator)

Thursday, September 20:

  • Blog Tour for Infinite Blue by Natalina Resia
  • DSP Promo Crystel Greene
  • In the Spotlight Tour and Giveaway for The Academy by Quinn Anderson
  • An Alisa Review: Professor Adorkable (Domesticated Inc #1) by Edie Danford
  • A MelanieM Review: Infinite Blue by Natalina Resia
  • A Lila Review  The Heights (Lakeshore #1) by Amy Aislin
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Shipped (Until You #1) by Karrie Roman

Friday, September 21:

  • Flash Me by KM Neuhold Blitz Blog Tour
  • Release Blitz – The Heart Dealer (The Individualists Series #2) by C S Joyce
  • Tour – Clancy Nacht – For Immediate Release
  • A Caryn Review : Diego (Endangered Fae #2) by Angel Martinez
  • An Alisa Review: Sugar Fighter (Sugar Daddies #1) by Charity Parkerson
  • A MelanieM Review: Flash Me (Heathens Ink #7) by K.M. Neuhold
  • A MelanieM Review: Drifting Sands (The Warfield Mysteries #1) by CJ Baty

Saturday, September 22:

  • TOUR Risking It All by Morningstar Ashley
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Italian Weddings and Funerals (Italian Stallions, #1) by A.J. Llewellyn