Book Blitz and Giveaway for BITE Anthology (Clare London, Ruby Moone, Sue Brown, Joanna Chambers)

 

Buy Links: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Universal LinkExclusive to Amazon and Available to Borrow with Kindle Unlimited
 

Vampires old and new, strong and sensual, with desires both predatory and protective. Their attraction is fierce and fascinating, and their love is eternal. We believe they deserve a very special kind of man—and their own happily ever after.


Four best-selling authors bring you their own take on the vampire lover’s story.
In Out of Time by Clare London, the ancient vampire Ambrus tries to protect Edward, a newly-turned young man, hoping to bring him comfort, acceptance of his fate, and eventually love.

In Christmas for a Vampire by Ruby Moone, grief-stricken vampire, Ellis Davenport, faces a miserable, lonely life when it seems the love of his life prefers death to eternity with him.

In A Tale Told in Darkness by Sue Brown, Lee comforts his lover with the tale of Brook, a vampire who falls for his neighbour Michael. When the young man is pursued by someone far more dangerous, only Brook can save him.

In Lamb to the Slaughter by Joanna Chambers, there is very little Lucien St. Villiers enjoys more than hunting for beautiful young men who are eager to learn all that Lucien has to teach them.
Please note: these stories may also be individually available for purchase at various times. This collection is a special event for 2019.
 
Clare LondonWebsite | TwitterBookbub | Facebook
 
Ruby MooneWebsite | Twitter | BookBub | Facebook
 
Sue BrownWebsite | Twitter | BookBub | Facebook
 
Joanna ChambersWebsite | Twitter | BookBub | Facebook
 

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A Lila Review: Sundown, Holiday, Beacon (Extraordinary Book 1) by K.L. Noone

Rating: 3.25 stars out of 5

Three superheroes in love! Or one superhero, one former sidekick, and one  redeemed supervillain, at least.

Ryan, John, and Holiday have been partners — in every sense of the word — for two years. They’ve saved the world, fallen in love, and remodeled the secret base to include bookshelves and a bigger bed.

But Ryan and John have always been the public face of the team. The world still believes Holiday’s a villain. And he’s been using that reputation to stay undercover and share information. Tonight, though, Holiday comes home injured, and his partners aren’t sure the mission’s worth his life.

Sundown, Holiday, Beacon is a quirky little story with lots of potential. It has great characters with an interesting backstory.

The world build and the narration were hard to follow, and I had trouble sympathizing with Sundown, Holiday, and Beacon. One thing I didn’t doubt was their love for each other.

I enjoyed how they took care of each other and how true their life story felt. Even when it was hard to figure out their age or who was speaking.

The action seemed a bit slow, chop at times, but I did wanted to learn more about their adventures. Perhaps the next book will round up their story.

The cover by Natasha Snow is simple but it goes with the story. It screams superheroes, and it gives a sense of an impending battle.

Sale Links: JMS | Amazon | Nook

Book Details:
ebook, 58 pages
ISBN: 9781646560691
Published: September 11, 2019, by JMS Books
Edition Language: English

Series: Extraordinary
Book #1: Sundown, Holiday, Beacon

Special Books I’m Promoting This Weekend and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Book Highlight Weekend!

So I thought I’d do something a little different this weekend and highlight some books I thought should be in the spotlight. In case a few readers here and there had missed them.  Each for varying reasons but the first being excellence.

The first one is a teaser, you can preorder it now from MacMillan (Tor), the author is T.J. Klune.  Perhaps you all have heard of him? lol

The cover is amazing, the reviews from those that have read it incredible…

Charlaine Harris, the author of the True Blood books read The House in the Cerulean Sea and said, “The House in The Cerulean Sea is a modern fairy tale about learning your true nature and what you love and will protect. It’s a beautiful book.”

1984 meets The Umbrella Academy with a pinch of Douglas Adams thrown in.” (Gail Carriger)

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

An enchanting love story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.

The House in the Cerulean Sea is Lambda Literary Award-winning author TJ Klune’s breakout contemporary fantasy.

The House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

Expected publication: March 17th 2020 by Tor Books

 Pre Order LinksAmazon | Tor | Goodreads | Barnes&Noble

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he’s given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

An enchanting story, masterfully told, The House in the Cerulean Sea is about the profound experience of discovering an unlikely family in an unexpected place—and realizing that family is yours.

Next up?

Sales Links:     

All Proceeds Go To Charity:

Amazon US

Everywhere Else

Book Details:

Buy for $4.99 or try Kindle Unlimited to read over a million titles
Kindle Edition, 761 pages
Published October 1st 2019

That would be the Heart2Heart Vol 3 AnthologyYou can find the link to the tour hereAll proceeds go to charity and the anthology is only available for the next 90 days!

Blurb

Once upon a time, a group of authors wondered… What if the Heart2Heart app — the dating app with a glitch that matched up the oddest, most perfect couples, and sponsored the charity date raffles that helped dozens of people find love — offered a classifieds section, too?

Need a handyman who knows how to wear a tool belt? Have a closet of drag costumes that needs a new home? How about finally tracking down that guy who made the perfect drink, or who’s just the right height to reach the top shelf?

Join some of your favorite authors of gay romance as they bring you sixteen brand-new stories inspired by reader suggestions!

Once again, all proceeds from this collection will go to the authors’ favorite LGBTQ charities (which are named and linked -see above tour), to ensure that love in all its forms will be celebrated and protected every single day of the year!

Participating Authors:Annabeth Albert , May Archer , Mary Calmes , Charlie Cochet , Eden Finley , Susan Hawke , Sloane Kennedy, Lucy Lennox  , Lily Morton , K.M. Neuhold , Nora Phoenix , Layla Reyne , Piper Scott, Damon Suede , Hailey Turner , Aimee Nicole Walker

#MustHave

One look at that lineup tells you this is something special!

In Addition….

And just in case you are having problems finding some of these authors and their stories lately?  Here are  some links to a few novels.  Not familiar? Pleases check them out! Those are links to the Amazon sales sights and the blurbs can be found there as well.

 

More authors next week.

 

Until then. Have a great weekend.  Happy Reading and happy listening to all your stories and authors.  Don’t forget to check out our week ahead below!

 

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, October 6:

  • Don’t Miss Out on the Book Blast with excerpt for The Black Mask by Samuel King
  • Love Historical Romance? Check Out the Release Blitz for Lost and Found by Liv Rancourt (excerpt and giveaway)
  • Check Out the Release Blitz with excerpt for the Best Man (Close Proximity #1) by Lily Morton
  • Special Books I’m Promoting This Weekend and This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, October 7:

  • Review Tour – Jay Northcote – Where Love Grows
  • Review Tour – V.L. Locey – Life According To Liam
  • Release Blitz – Con Riley – After Ben (Seattle Stories #1)
  • A Stella Review: After Ben (Seattle Stories #1) by Con Riley
  • A MelanieM Review : Life According To Liam by  V.L. Locey
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review:  Where Love Grows by Jay Northcote

Tuesday, October 8:

  • TOUR In Safe Arms by Ann Grech
  • Shots on Goal (Stick Side #3) by Amy Aislin – Cover Reveal Blitz
  • RELEASE BLITZ Master of Restless Shadows by Ginn Hale
  • Release Blitz  – Elle Keaton – Conspiracy Theory
  • A Stella Review: Things Happen That Way (Mann of My Dreams #2) by Tinnean
  • A Lila Review: Sundown, Holiday, Beacon (Extraordinary Book 1) by K.L. Noone

Wednesday, October 9:

  • Review Tour Request – Coast To Coast – RJ Scott & V.L. Locey
  • Book Blitz – BITE – Various Authors
  • Blog Tour Ground Zero by Aimee Nicole Walker
  • An Alisa Review:  BITE Anthology (Various Authors)
  • A Stella Review : The Lion and the Crow by Eli Easton
  • A MelanieM Review : Coast To Coast (Arizona Raptors #1) by  RJ Scott & V.L. Locey
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Ground Zero (Zero Hour #1) by Aimee Nicole Walker

Thursday, October 10:

  • Cover Reveal – Precariously Mated (D’Vaire, Book 14) by Jessamyn Kingley
  • Review Tour – Shinigami by Xia Xia Lake
  • Blog Tour “Dog Tagged” by James Brock
  • An Alisa Review: “Dog Tagged” by James Brock
  • A Free Dreamer Review: Shinigami by Xia Xia Lake
  • A MelanieM Review: Lessons in Playing a Murderous Tune (Cambridge Fellows #12.8) by Charlie Cochrane

Friday, October 11:

  • Release Blitz – Crystal Lacy – Ready For You
  • Cover Reveal – First Priority by Este Holland
  • New Release Tour for A Thousand Lifetimes – Katey Hawthorne
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Winter’s Knight (New Amsterdam #2) by Kelly Wyre
  • A Lucy Review: The Captain’s Flirty Fireworks by Eleanor Harkstead and Catherine Curzon
  • A MelanieM Review A Thousand Lifetimes by Katey Hawthorne

Saturday, October 12:

  • Release Blitz  – DJ Jamison – Wrangling A Groom
  • Book Blast – The Killing Spell by Shane Ulrrein
  • A Free Dreamer Review: The Killing Spell by Shane Ulrrein

A MelanieM Audio Review:The Rising (Badlands #2) by Morgan Brice and Kale Williams (Narrator)

Rating: 4.75 stars out of 5

A big storm is brewing, there’s a killer on the loose, and the ghosts of Myrtle Beach are restless. Psychic medium Simon Kincaide and his sexy cop boyfriend, homicide detective Vic D’Amato, have their hands full helping the Grand Strand brace for rough surf, driving rain, and high winds as a winter storm roars toward shore.

Everyone’s on edge, and rumors are rampant about sightings of Blackcoat Benny, a ghostly omen of danger, and worse, the Gallows Nine, the spirits of nine infamous criminals hanged back in the 1700s, a harbinger of disaster. Rough tides wash the wreck of an old pirate ship into shallow waters, high winds threaten to damage an old mansion with a dark past, and the citizens of the beach town hunker down to ride out the storm.

As the skies grow dark and the sea turns wild, several men from prominent local families end up dead under suspicious circumstances. Simon’s premonition confirms Vic’s gut feeling – the killing is just getting started. As Simon tries to reach out to the spirits of the murdered men to help the investigation, he’s attacked by malicious ghosts that don’t want anyone getting in the way of their long-overdue vengeance.

When I first started listening to audiobooks, if you had asked me if I would be listening to stories I had already read, I would have said no..  But as my appreciation for this format and the gifted narrators has grown, I find I not only find myself listening to stories I have  already read bit actovey seek out the audio versions.  Why?  Because I have long since learned that a superb narration  not only sometimes elevates the story past my previous experience, maybe because of distractions or moods or what have you. But because that narrator’s voice and acting ability allows me to see into the characters and stories in ways I hadn’t seen before.

Love it when I am able to discover new facets to characters or pickup on new clues overlooks because I missed a sentence reading it.  Can’t do that while listening.

So it happens here with the marvelous audio version of The Rising (Badlands #2) by Morgan Brice as narrated by Kale Williams.  I’m more than thrilled with the seamless combination of author and narrator, the same one, Kale Williams who is the voice behind Morgan Brice’s other audio series.  I’m dropped into the still new relationship of Simon and  Vic as they settle in together into their lives in Myrtle Beach.  But there’s a huge storm brewing, and the atmosphere is heavy, as only that ominous way that foretells danger and foreboding.

Such an excellent story.  As with all such plots there is murder which bring’s in Vic, and the methodology and strange circumstances which brings in Simon, each in their area of expertise.  This is one of power, and haunting, and pirates.  And while I remembered it all so clearly.  Now, well, now, as voiced by Williams, this story sang of mystical powers and a need for revenge that even death couldn’t quench!  I couldn’t stop listening, hooked by story, hooked by voice.  it was as though it was new all over again.

I love how we start off pointed in all directions, yet all layers, the past, the present, and yes, even the future, come together when all the clues mesh with a crescendo to a chilling, thrilling, heart stopping ending! The Rising is truly one of my favorite stories with one of Brice’s favorite couples (and that’s saying a lot)!  It has it all.  Romance! Mystery! Suspense! The Mystical and Paranormal.  And even Pirates with revenge on the mind.  You can’t ask for more.  But you get it with Kale Williams as the outstanding narrator.  Don’t miss out on this superb series ! The audio version rocks!

Cover art is dark and the models work for the characters but I wish for a tad more elements from the storyline.

Buy Links

Audible US  |  Audible UK 

Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

 

Audio Book Details:

Listening Length: 6 hours and 48 minutes.

Audible Audio, 7 pages
Published June 18th 2019 by Tantor Audio (first published February 13th 2019)
ASIN B07SLGN28Y
Edition Language English
Series Badlands #2

Badlands Series linked to GR

Badlands

Lucky Town 1.5

Restless Nights 1.6

The Rising 2

Cover Me: A Badlands Short 2.5

Love to Listen to Your Stories? Check Out the Review Tour for The Rising (Badlands #2) by Morgan Brice and Kale Williams (Narrator)

AUDIOBOOK REVIEW TOUR

Book Title: The Rising (Badlands #2)

Author: Morgan Brice

Publisher: Darkwind Press

Narrator: Kale Williams

Release Date: June 18, 2019

Genre: Urban Fantasy, MM paranormal romance

Trope/s: Second chance, new established relationship, monster hunting, hurt/comfort

Themes: Learning to trust, growing into a relationship, partnership

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 6 hours and 48 minutes

It can be read on its own, but it is part of the Badlands series

Add on Goodreads

 

Vic and Simon race to stop the murders against an unholy deadline, but as they battle rising tides and risen ghosts, can they save the intended victims without getting trapped themselves? 

 

Blurb 

A big storm is brewing, there’s a killer on the loose, and the ghosts of Myrtle Beach are restless. Psychic medium Simon Kincaide and his sexy cop boyfriend, homicide detective Vic D’Amato have their hands full helping the Grand Strand brace for rough surf, driving rain, and high winds as a winter storm roars toward shore. 

Everyone’s on edge, and rumors are rampant about sightings of Blackcoat Benny, a ghostly omen of danger, and worse, the Gallows Nine, the spirits of nine infamous criminals hanged back in the 1700s, a harbinger of disaster. Rough tides wash the wreck of an old pirate ship into shallow waters, high winds threaten to damage an old mansion with a dark past, and the citizens of the beach town hunker down to ride out the storm. 

As the skies grow dark and the sea turns wild, several men from prominent local families end up dead under suspicious circumstances. Simon’s premonition confirms Vic’s gut feeling—the killing is just getting started. As Simon tries to reach out to the spirits of the murdered men to help the investigation, he’s attacked by malicious ghosts that don’t want anyone getting in the way of their long-overdue vengeance. 

With the storm hammering the coast, and new victims piling up, Simon is certain that the sins and secrets of the past are coming due, and that the murders have a supernatural link. Vic and Simon race to stop the murders against an unholy deadline, but as they battle rising tides and risen ghosts, can they save the intended victims without getting trapped themselves? 

The Rising is the second novel in the Badlands series. It is a MM romance intended for readers 18 years of age and older. The story contains mentions of suicide (not the main characters).

 

Buy Links

Audible US  |  Audible UK 

Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

 

About the Author 

Morgan Brice is the romance pen name of bestselling author Gail Z. Martin. Morgan writes urban fantasy male/male paranormal romance, with plenty of action, adventure and supernatural thrills to go with the happily ever after. Gail writes epic fantasy and urban fantasy, and together with co-author hubby Larry N. Martin, steampunk and comedic horror, all of which have less romance, more explosions. Characters from her Gail books make frequent appearances in secondary roles in her Morgan books, and vice versa.

Other books include Witchbane, Burn, Dark Rivers, and Badlands, Lucky Town, and The Rising, plus Treasure Trail. Watch for more in these series, plus new series coming soon!

I’ll be a Featured Author at GRL in October and also at Coastal Magic in February!

Join my Worlds of Morgan Brice Facebook Group! Get the early scoop on upcoming books and new series, see new covers first, enjoy insider news and special contests and giveaways! Plus it’s where I get my beta readers and launch team!

 

Author Links

Amazon

Facebook Group

Pinterest (for Morgan and Gail)

Twitter: @MorganBriceBook

Website

BookBub

Sign up for my newsletter and never miss a new release

 

 

Follow the tour and check out the other blog posts and reviews here

 

Hosted by Gay Book Promotions

 

An Alisa Review: Wolf, Wy by A.F. Henley

Rating: 4 stars out of 5

There’s nothing like a fresh start, and for Randy, still nursing wounds left by a cheating ex and harboring a deep mistrust for all things corporate, Wolf, Wyoming seems like the perfect place to start over. Secluded, quiet, and self-sufficient, Wolf is bound to not only inspire, but to bring Randy the peace he needs. The view’s not bad, either.

Vaughn O’Connell and his family are Randy’s only neighbors for miles, and while Randy knows it’s somewhat unlikely that a man with three kids is gay, it doesn’t hurt to look. When a misunderstanding brings Randy face to face with both Vaughn and his eighteen-year-old son, Lyle, Randy’s not sure what to feel about either of them.

But things are not what they appear in Wolf, and the closer Randy gets, the stranger the O’Connell family seems.

I really enjoyed this story, it’s one that has been on my tbr for a long time and I took the plunge to read it since it was being re-release and I am really glad I did.

Randy is trying to deal with his ex’s betrayal but also move on and figure out what he really wants to do.  Though I am not sure he ever really figured out what he wants to do he did find love along the way.  Vaughn is a secretive person and trying to protect his family but he can’t help his attraction to Randy and gives in even when he thinks he shouldn’t.

It was entertaining watching Randy trying to figure out the O’Connells but also constantly putting his foot in his mouth.  I liked getting glimpses of Vaughn’s thoughts in wolf form even if we didn’t get to see them often.  I could see him trying to push Randy away bit it never worked for very long.  I look forward to reading Lyle’s adventures next.

I really like the cover art and it shows the perfect setting for the story.

Sales Links: JMS Books | Amazon | B&N

Book Details:

ebook, 211 pages

Published: 2nd edition, September 4, 2019 by JMS Books

ISBN: 9781646561001

Edition Language: English

Want a Touch of a Fairy Tale Romance? Check Out the Release Blitz and Excerpt for Beyond the Surface by Colette Davison

RELEASE BLITZ

Book Title: Beyond the Surface

Author: Colette Davison

Cover Artist: Illustrator: Bramasta Aji; typography: Colette Davison

Release Date: September 30, 2019

Genre/s: Paranormal romance

Trope/s: Fated mates, insta-love, age-gap, fairy tale retelling

Themes: Finding yourself; self-acceptance

Heat Rating: 3 – 4 flames

Add on Goodreads 

 

 

Buy Links – Available on Kindle Unlimited

Universal Amazon Link  |  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

 

Raen has always longed to see the world beyond the surface, but nothing could compel him to break the most ancient law of the merfolk. Could it?

Blurb 

Raen should have found his mate during his first hunt, instead he almost died. Two years later, he’s struggling with internal fear, and his father’s disapproval.

Until he encounters a land-dweller.

A man he feels a deep and instant connection to.

A man who will drown if Raen doesn’t save him.

But in order to do so, Raen must break two of the merfolk’s rules:

Don’t interact with land-dwellers.

Don’t go beyond the surface.

If Raen saves the man, he stands to lose everything he’s ever known. But if he lets him drown, he’ll lose something infinitely more precious to his heart and soul.

Beyond the Surface is a paranormal MM romance, with fated mates who almost never met, a sweet insta-love relationship, and an age-gap.

 

 

Excerpt 

Steven’s head hurt, which stopped him from opening his eyes for several seconds after he came around. He could feel the damp firmness of sand beneath him. Water lapped at his feet, and his drenched clothes clung to him, making him feel heavy. He could taste salt water and bile in his mouth, and his throat and lungs burned. Why was he lying on the beach? He was sure he’d been on the boat, trying to catch a blasted fish that he could cook for dinner. The churning hunger he had felt was gone, replaced by something strange and unfamiliar yet warm and comforting.

He forced his eyes open and found a dark pair of eyes staring down at him from a delicate, pale face. The bewitching eyes widened.

“Who…?” Steven’s voice came out as a strained croak. “Am I…?” He’d meant to say dreaming, but he was finding it difficult to focus on speech, with such a stunning, ethereal creature beside him. It seemed to him that someone had captured the moon and personified it in a beautiful young man with wild raven hair.

He felt cool fingers brush against his shoulder, a touch that felt both alien and familiar. His body relaxed in response, and his eyes drifted shut, even though he wanted to keep them open. He had so many questions, but he was too tired to utter them. The soothing back and forth motion of the cool fingers lulled him to sleep, and he was completely powerless to resist. 

He wasn’t sure whether it was seconds, minutes, or hours before he rose to wakefulness once more.

He licked his salty lips and tried to speak. “Who are…?” He coughed and opened his eyes once more.

No one was there. He pushed himself up on shaking arms. A movement out at sea grabbed his attention. His breath caught in his throat as he saw the broad fins of a pale, dappled tail vanish beneath the surface. It was the first glimpse of dolphins he’d seen, and his head was too sore for him to really appreciate the spectacle. Besides, he had other things to worry about, such as where the young man he’d seen had gone.

 

About the Author 

Colette’s personal love story began at university, where she met her future husband. An evening of flirting, in the shadow of Lancaster castle, eventually led to a fairytale wedding. She’s enjoying her own ‘happy ever after’ in the north of England with her husband, two beautiful children and her writing.

 

 

Social Media Links

Blog/Website

Facebook

Twitter

Facebook Group: Colette’s Cosy Corner

BookBub

Goodreads

Instagram

Mailing List

 

 

Follow the tour and check out the other blog posts and reviews here

 

Hosted by Gay Book Promotions

 

A MelanieM Review: T.A.D.: The Angel of Death by M.D. Neu

Rating: 3.5 stars out of 5

Tad bounces around in time and watches mankind grow and change. He loves humanity and helping when he can. However, his job isn’t conducive to helping people—he’s an Angel of Death.

Doug is a fun-loving drama queen. He’s an amazing drag queen and hairstylist with big dreams, but despite his witty exterior, he has a dark history and is prone to self-destruction.

When Tad pushes the boundaries of his duties too far, his wings are stripped away from him, and he is sent to New York City to live as a human. Lost and alone he ends up meeting Doug, and they start a friendship that shapes them both and may last a lifetime. But nothing is simple when you’re dealing with a former Angel of Death and a Drag Queen. Could these two cause the fabric of our world to collapse or will they manage to keep the future as it should?

I readily admit I struggled with this review for T.A.D.: The Angel of Death by M.D. Neu.  It is at times incredibly moving and at others very narratively dry and drawn out.  It can swing from the haunting and angst to the  huh and almost boring.  It can be lyrical and yes, downright mundane.  So how to meld the two?

It’s hard because I hold this writer in high esteem.  His other works, like The Calling or The Reunion are amazing examples of writing and high flights of literacy. I see moments of those here, especially in that Prologue.

For those of you out there for whom 9/11, even the words, is still that enormous traumatic tragedy that wounds you still, leaves you in tears.  Well, that Prologue will be hard to read.  It was for me.  That is the sort of writing I expect from this author.

But it’s not sustained as the point of view switches from the Angel of Death (one of many) to Doug, a hairdresser and Drag Queen.  For some reason, Doug is the character that removes the life from the story rather than sparks it.  It really should be the other way around.  Doug should have the pizazz, the zing, and heft as it were to carry this story.  And in my opinion, Doug just doesn’t.  At least not until the end.  At the end?  Everything suddenly came together with a twist and I was bawling my eyes out.

But for about one third or more of the story something was missing. The very life that TAD found so special, so precious, so worth sacrificing for. And  I couldn’t help by feel that the author did;t telegraph that in his characters or storyline.  He came close in certain scenes.  But never enough of them strung together.  The novel felt “talked to”, or drawn out when it should have felt lively.

There is no romance between the main  characters here.  It’s not that sort of story.  Doug does find love, a romantic love.  And love does abide. It’s just of another kind.

And that ending?  Well, yes, as I said, many, many tissues and a twist I didn’t see coming.  So well worth it.    If only I hadn’t had to “walk : a long, sometimes long trail to get there.

I love drag queens, I love terrific endings, and the writing of this author.  But all together in this story.  I’m still puzzling that one out.  I;ll  leave it up to you.

 

Cover art: Natasha Snow.  What a great cover. Full of elements pertaining to the storyline and visually captivating.

Sales Links

NineStar Press | Goodreads

Book Details:

ebook
Expected publication: September 23rd 2019 by NineStar Press
ISBN139781951057398
Edition LanguageEnglish
URL https://ninestarpress.com/product/tad/

Need A New Story? Check our the Tour for T.A.D.: The Angel of Death by M.D. Neu (excerpt) a MM paranormal/alternate universe novel!

The Angel of Death

M.D Neu has a new MM paranormal/alternate universe book out: T.A.D – The Angel of Death.

Tad loves bouncing around in time and watching mankind grow and change. He loves humanity and helping when he can. However, his job isn’t conducive to helping people. He’s an Angel of Death.

Doug is fun loving and a drama queen. Despite his witty exterior, he has a dark history and is prone to self-destruction. He’s also an amazing drag queen and hairstylist with big dreams.

When Tad pushes the boundaries of his duties too far, his angel wings are stripped away from him, and he is sent to New York City to live as a human. Lost and alone he ends up meeting Doug, and the two start a friendship that will shape them both and last a lifetime. But nothing is simple when you’re dealing with a former Angel of Death and a Drag Queen. Could these two cause the fabric of our world to collapse or will they manage to keep the future as it should?

NineStar Press | Goodreads


Giveaway

Giveaway:

Marvin is giving away a $20 Amazon gift card with this reveal and tour. Enter via Rafflecopter:

a Rafflecopter giveawayhttps://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d4781/?


Excerpt

The Angel of Death

Doug glanced up at the big void where the buildings once stood.

How could anyone do that? All those people, and for what? Thank God, no one I know was there. Thank goodness, Garret’s train was running late. Even from across the river, seeing the buildings fall, one minute there, the next not, awful. Not knowing if Garret was alive or dead. The not knowing was awful, and it seemed to last forever. Then getting his call when the phones were back up. It was a relief. Still, the not knowing? Horrible. How do survivors do it?

Doug shuddered. He had to look away before he started to cry again. That day. The world wasn’t the same. How could it be? Would it ever be the same again? He swiped at his eyes, keeping the tears he was trying to hold back from dropping. He caught his reflection in one of the storefront windows and fussed with his blond spiky hair.

One year.

The months right after the attack had been hell for everyone. People from all over the world sent support and offered help. But New York was moving on, as it should. They already had seven different architects offering new designs to fill the empty skyline. Mayor Giuliani was doing everything he could for the city, and there was even talk of him running for president.

Doug checked his flip phone and picked up his pace. He was running late. He shouldn’t have spent the night at Tim’s, but leaving such a sexy guy was no easy task. Not to mention they might have partied too much.

I doubt that is even possible. You can never party too much.

There was a large group of mourners, and he had to step to the side to let them pass. He took a deep cleansing breath, pushing all thoughts from his mind, and started walking again. He rushed past the families and friends heading to Ground Zero. Now he had to hustle to make it to work. He’d gotten lucky no one he was familiar with was killed. Still, every time he thought about the attack and looked up at the twin lights filling the night sky, he wanted to cry.

Monsters.

Why President Bush didn’t blow up the whole of the Middle East after the attack, Doug would never understand. Instead, the president sent troops to Afghanistan, searching for Osama bin Laden and taking out Al-Qaeda.

Just as long as they find and kill the monsters who did this to us.

Doug couldn’t help but stop again and glance up to where the twin towers once stood. He quickly wiped at his eyes. “I need to get out of here.” He moved over to the brick façade and leaned against the wall as more people passed him, heading to the memorial ceremony.

“So much suffering and for what?” Doug mumbled. He started walking again, taking a deep breath and trying to avoid the crowds. A woman in a dark jacket passed him and bumped his shoulder, causing him to step closer to an alley. She didn’t bother saying anything; however, Doug thought she said something about his size. He caught his reflection again. He hated how everything made him feel so fat. Nothing he wore looked right on him. Even the baggy pants still made him look fat and messy. He would need to start at the gym if he wanted to continue dating Tim and keep up with his partying. He frowned.

At least I have good hair.

He played with the spikes of his hair.

“It’s my fault,” a gruff voice whispered from behind him.

Doug startled and turned around, but no one was there. He glanced over to the dumpster.

Sitting there, a raggedy black man, with kinky hair in desperate need of a cut and wash, stared at him. The man had the most beautiful green eyes Doug had ever seen. The rich tones of his skin really made his eyes pop, quite possibly the unkempt man’s best feature. The man was in shambles, and tears streamed down his dirty cheeks.

The anniversary affects everyone.

“I did this,” the man groaned through his sobs. “And now I’m being punished.”

Doug wasn’t sure what to do or say. Should he walk away and get to the salon? Leave what appeared to be the crazy homeless guy alone? Could he do that now that they made eye contact? Could he do that today of all days? The man needed help. The man needed a shower and clean clothes. Perhaps, if he talked to him, that would be enough…well, the talk and ten bucks.

That’s what Shannon would do. Talk to him and give him money. Shannon was such a kind soul, and I need to be more like him, more like he was. To honor him. Just like my drag name. Maybe Miss Enshannon needs to be more. I need to be more.

Doug’s heart ached at the memories of Shannon and how wonderful he was. When he picked his drag name there was no doubt on what it would be, but to honor someone you loved had to be more than using their name.

“It’s not your fault.” He knelt close to the man, still keeping his distance just in case. “It was the work of terrorists. They killed all those people, not you.”

“I should have stopped them. I should have done more,” the dirty man moaned.

“Oh, baby, no one could have done more,” Doug offered. Some people thought the government knew about the attack beforehand and the president allowed it to happen. Doug didn’t buy it. Why anyone listened to these people was beyond him, but they did. He just wished they would shut up and crawl back under the rocks they came from. They weren’t helping anyone, and in the long run, their remarks and comments only hurt people more.

“Now, I’m being punished. They sent me here and took my wings,” the man whispered.

Was this guy a pilot? Oh, that would be awful. I bet he was supposed to fly one of the planes, and he couldn’t take it. Survivor’s guilt.


Author Bio

M.D. Neu

M.D. Neu is a queer Fiction Writer with a love for writing and travel. Living in the heart of Silicon Valley (San Jose, California) and growing up around technology, he’s always been fascinated with what could be. Specifically drawn to Science Fiction and Paranormal television and novels, M.D. Neu was inspired by the great Gene Roddenberry, George Lucas, Stephen King, Alice Walker, Alfred Hitchcock, Harvey Fierstein, Anne Rice, and Kim Stanley Robinson. An odd combination, but one that has influenced his writing.

Growing up in an accepting family as a gay man he always wondered why there were never stories reflecting who he was. Constantly surrounded by characters that only reflected heterosexual society, M.D. Neu decided he wanted to change that. So, he took to writing, wanting to tell good stories that reflected our diverse world.

When M.D. Neu isn’t writing, he works for a non-profit and travels with his biggest supporter and his harshest critic, Eric his husband of twenty plus years.

Author Website: http://www.mdneu.com

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/mdneuauthor/

Author Twitter: https://twitter.com/Writer_MDNeu

Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authormdneu/

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17206592.M_D_Neu

Author QueeRomance Ink: https://www.queeromanceink.com/mbm-book-author/m-d-neu/

Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/M-D-Neu/e/B076FK1S14/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

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It’s Almost the Chilling Time as October Arrives. This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

It’s Almost the Chilling Time as October Arrives

Hard to believe but October begins this week, sailing in on the wings of honking geese and the quizzical head turns of praying mantises still looming large in my somewhat overgrown garden. Pumpkins have appeared in the farmers markets and grocery stores alike as have the Halloween costume and candy aisles now full of all things scary or politically pertinent.

That also heralds the release of seasonal LGBT horror stories, often short or on the novelette size, looking to ride the wave of holiday horror.  I always look forward to whatever new authors or old appear at this time.  This is how I found the quite marvelous MD Neu who  I have continued to track through the writer’s many releases at NineStar Press.   Fingers crossed I’m that lucky again.

Or maybe it’s time to reconnect with some old horror or supernatural favorites.    Or favorite writers with some new supernatural stories.  Katey Hawthorne has a new supernatural thriller romance out A Thousand Lifetimes, which i will be reviewing later. Vampires in love.  Oh yes!  And TJ Klune and his great wolfpack?  His latest Heartsong, as well as the new ebooks and paperback versions at Amazon (the rights are finally his and you  can buy those versions at Amazon only knowing he will get the money) for Wolfsong and Ravensong.  What perfect timing!  Join the pack!

Next week I’m hauling out our October recommendations and updating them.  Plus looking at our new October releases we are enjoying.

Until then.  Happy October.  Hope the weather is agreeing with you wherever you are.  Happy reading, and happy listening.

Now to our week ahead.

This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Sunday, September 29:

  • Don’t Miss Out on the Blog Post for Into The Deep by Amara Lynn (exclusive excerpt and giveaway)
  • It’s Almost the Chilling Time as October Arrives. This Week at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words

Monday, September 30:

  • Cover Reveal “Dog Tagged” by James Brock
  • Release Blitz for Coast To Coast (Arizona Raptors #1) by RJ Scott & V.L. Locey
  • “Pure Dumb Luck” Dahlia Donovan Tour
  • An Alisa Review Clueless Cabot by André D. Michaels
  • A MelanieM Review: “Pure Dumb Luck” by Dahlia Donovan
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: Kel’s Keeper by KC Wells

Tuesday, October 1:🎃🎃

  • Review Tour – Clare London – Romancing The Rough Diamond
  • Release Blitz Rules to Break by Susan Hawke
  • Release Blitz – Amalgamated by Becca Seymour
  • Blog Tour for Love on the Hudson by KD Fisher
  • A Stella review: Things Happen That Way (Mann of My Dreams #2) by Tinnean
  • A Lila review I Was A Gay Teenage Zombie by Alison Cybe
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review THE KING’S DRAGON (Fire and Valor #1) by W.M. Fawkes & Sam Burns

Wednesday, October 2:

  • Release Blitz – V.L. Locey – Life According To Liam
  • Release Blitz – Beyond the Surface by Colette Davison
  • Blog Tour “I’ve Got This” by Louisa Masters
  • An Alisa Review: Wolf, Wy by A.F. Henley
  • A Stella Review :Beyond the Surface by Colette Davison
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: I’ve Got This (Joy Universe #1) by Louisa Masters

Thursday, October 3:

  • TOUR The Musician and the Monster by Jenya Keefe
  • Release Blitz Under Pressure by Lauren Ashley
  • Blog Tour Raven’s Hart by Davidson King
  • AUDIOBOOK REVIEW TOUR -The Rising (Badlands #2) by Morgan Brice, Kale Williams (Narrator)
  • A Free Dreamer Review The Musician and the Monster by Jenya Keefe
  • A MelanieM Audio Review:The Rising (Badlands #2) by Morgan Brice, Kale Williams (Narrator)

Friday, October 4:

  • Heart2Heart Anthology, Vol. 3 Tour
  • Book Blast – Daddy Bear : The Complete Series by B.J. Smyth
  • Blog Tour Ride the Whirlwind by Jackie North
  • An Alisa Review: Daddy Bear : The Complete Series by B.J. Smyth
  • A Chaos Moondrawn Review: Space Train by David Bridger
  • A MelanieM Review: Land of Enchantment by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga

Saturday, October 5:

  • Release Blitz Signal – Ruby Moone – Loving Daniel (MC Securities #3)
  • Release Blitz – Liv Rancourt – Lost and Found
  • A MelanieM Review:Heart2Heart Anthology, Vol. 3
  • A Barb the Zany Old Lady Review: American Love Story (Dreamers #3) by Adriana Herrera