A Stella Review: For Real by Alexis Hall

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Laurence Dalziel is worn down and washed up, and for him, the BDSM scene is all played out. Six years on from his last relationship, he’s pushing forty and tired of going through the motions of submission.

Then he meets Toby Finch. Nineteen years old. Fearless, fierce, and vulnerable. Everything Laurie can’t remember being.

Toby doesn’t know who he wants to be or what he wants to do. But he knows, with all the certainty of youth, that he wants Laurie. He wants him on his knees. He wants to make him hurt, he wants to make him beg, he wants to make him fall in love.

The problem is, while Laurie will surrender his body, he won’t surrender his heart. Because Toby is too young, too intense, too easy to hurt. And what they have—no matter how right it feels—can’t last. It can’t mean anything.

It can’t be real.

Usually I don’t read books this long (this one is 437 beautiful pages), cause they always dragged at some point during the story. Not For Real by Alexis Hall. I was caught in the MCs’ lives till the end, there wasn’t one little moment of boredom. I didn’t want to put it down and I could have going on for another 400 pages. I felt everything Laurie and Toby felt, almost if I was there in their amazing world.

Of course I didn’t expect anything other than perfection from Alexis Hall. Recently I realized that he could simply write my favorite pie recipe and turn it in a masterpiece. He not “just can write”, there a lot of authors that can really write, he writes magically, everything is so poetic, even the smallest and stupid description of something you could have thought useless for the purpose of the story. The use of words in the descriptions and the reality of this story were two elements that made this book a winner to me. Even if the story flows easy, still I found it complex and that was what I appreciated more.

For Real is definitely not the usual BDSM story, the way in which the roles were defined plus everything was one continuous discovery. And not just for the young Toby, too young to know how to express himself in his desire of dominate Laurie. This was a dynamic I hadn’t read yet, at first it almost sounded strange to me but then I got it. I understood that the author gave me Toby and Laurie, two real characters, both full of flaws but true in their feelings. Their story was complicated, sweet and hot. Moreover I so appreciated to be able to know every little detail that went on in their minds.

As I said a complex book with a beautiful happy ending. I already know I’m going to reread it very soon because the positive, happy vibes it gave me are addictive. For Real deserves absolutely a spot on my fave shelf. Not a crumble less than 5 stars!

Cover art by Simoné. I love this artist style, it’s magical and dreamy. This cover is perfect and fitting in every detail. I especially love the colors and all that light coming from the windows. Just like the book, it’s real.

Sales Links: Riptide Publishing | All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

Book Details:
Published June 1st 2015 by Riptide Publishing
ebook, 437 pages
ISBN13 9781626492790
Edition Language English

Spires Universe:
Glitterland
Waiting For The Flood
For Real

What’s this “Spires” thing?  Author Alexis Hall: My feeling is that even contemporary-set romance stories to an extent take place in imagined worlds. So even though they’re not direct sequels to each other, my contemporary romances often have overlapping characters, ideas and settings. Spires is how I refer to this collection of thematically linked but otherwise standalone stories.

Release Day for Beneath the Scales by Aurora Peppermint! (author guest blog and contest)

Its Release Day for

Beneath the Scales by Aurora Peppermint
Release Day: July 9, 2015

Published by Harmony Ink Press
Cover art by Anne Cain

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press eBook & Paperback | All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

We’re celebrating the release today of our very own reviewer Aurora’s first published novel, Beneath The Scales, with Harmony Ink Press. Its an amazing accomplishment at any age, but especially at hers. Aurora is a true YA reviewer in every way and we are so proud to have her as a part of our team here at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words!

So check out that gorgeous cover by Anne Cain, read the blurb and excerpt below. And drop a line or two to Aurora and enter the contest for a gift card at the end.

Congratulations, Aurora!

✍✍✍✍✍✍

Aurora Peppermint on Beneath The Scales and YA Stories

Writing Beneath the Scales was a huge labor of love for me. I came up with the character of Martus first, and Hal very soon after that. I really love their characters and throughout this book and the books that will follow it, I’ve just had such a great time seeing them grow and slowly become more comfortable with each other. I love to read young adult fiction, and I have found that I love writing it just as much. Working with teenage characters is so interesting because that time in a person’s life is so unique and, in the case of Beneath the Scales, the situation that Martus and Hal have found themselves in just makes an already complicated time even more so. Martus is in the position of being a guardian to his sister, stealing and doing unsavory jobs just to keep them from starving. And through the course of this book, his life just gets more complicated than before. From the things he learns about himself to the things he learns about the world around him, he really has a chance to change and improve his quality of life.

Besides just my characters, who had my heart from the moment that I came up with them, the plot of this book is really important to me too. So often, I find myself reading young adult books and absolutely loving them, but wondering how the fantasy world in the books I enjoy can connect to the real world. At the same time, I see teenagers, friends, struggling with their sexual and romantic identities, and struggling with being accepted for a whole host of other reasons. What I really wanted to show in this books was that everyone goes through these struggles, and it’s very possible to recover from them and it’s possible to still do great things for the world even if the world doesn’t have faith in you. I also wanted to show someone who both deals with prejudices being put against him, for a few reasons – his social status, his sexuality – but someone who is still prejudiced in his own ways. More importantly, I wanted show someone who was trying to overcome that prejudice.

I had a great time writing this book, I love the characters very much, and I am so excited to see where they go in the future and to share their upcoming journeys, and the journey they go through in this book, with you.

A desperate quest forces a young man to question all he knows about truth and loyalty.

Fifteen-year-old orphan Martus is struggling to provide for his magically gifted sister, Elsaben. Stealing and working shady jobs might feed them, but it doesn’t bring in enough for the arcane books and training she sorely needs, and he knows he can’t keep it up forever. His reputation as a troublemaker is starting to put him in danger.

When Elsaben is carried off by a dragon who attacks their village and burns it to the ground, Martus swears revenge, expecting to either die or return a hero. He isn’t prepared for what he discovers in a cave in the mountains.

If he can put aside his prejudices, he might find a chance for a better life, a faithful new friend, and the opportunity to help someone more like himself than he realizes. His adventure could change everything—even the beliefs he’s always taken for granted.

Martus ran a hand lazily through his hair, then trailed his palm down to rub at his eyes, and finally let his arm flop down onto the bed beside him. It was light out already and he had to get up, much as he didn’t want to, but he was going to postpone waking fully as long as possible, just as he did every morning.

As a boy who had been punched in the stomach many times before, it was easy to recognize the feeling, but, through the crack of his eye—rather than the angry ex-lover of someone he’d pulled into his bed the night before, as he would usually see—his curly-haired little sister was visible.

“Mar! Up, up, up! You promised you’d take me with you today! ‘Member?” Bright eyes peered down into his, and Martus easily threw an arm around the small girl and pulled her off his stomach, mindful of her head when he plopped her down on the wood floor beside him.

“Yes, Elsaben. Sh.” Pulling a pillow over his face for a moment, Martus heaved a loud sigh, then tossed the pillow to the side and sat up. “Wh—” A yawn cut his question off, and his eyes wrinkled shut for a moment. “Where d’you want to go, darling?”

“I want to go wherever you go, Mar! “ Elsaben grinned, flopping on her stomach to grope under his bed before standing triumphantly with a bent up stick in her small hand, “You have my sa-word!” Martus couldn’t help laughing at that, ruffling his little sister’s hair and standing up.

“All right, then, little warrior, get dressed.” As he spoke, Martus tugged on his shirt and went looking for his day pants. The siblings didn’t have much since their parents died, but Martus always made sure his little sister had the basic necessities—clothes, food, water, something that could at least pass for a house—and a little more when he could manage it.

“Bet I’ll be ready quicker than you!” With that, Elsaben was out the door and hurrying down the stairs, hair flying out behind her.

Enter to win a Rafflecopter prize of $15.00 Amazon gift card. Must be 15 years of age or older to enter. Link and prize provided by Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.

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The Luckiest is Out! A Mila McWarren Interview on The Luckiest, Inspiration and Writing! (interview and giveaway)

The Luckiest by Mila McWarren
Release Date: July 7, 2015

Goodreads Link
Publisher: Interlude Press
Cover Artist: C.B. Messer

Sales Links: Interlude Press | Amazon

A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Author Interview with Mila McWarren

• I love it when an author chooses unusual professions for their characters. Why a memoirist? Does his profession play an important role in the story or was the choice separate from what you wanted to “get” from the plot?

Oh, man, I love this question.

So (a) I love the hubris of Aaron being a memoirist. I love the hubris of ANYBODY being a memoirist, but especially this kid who is still, in so many ways, really actively figuring out who he is. I mean, really, how dare he – but of course he does. It’s actually a central piece of thinking about who he is and how he understands himself; the kid has balls, for sure. (b) In my heart of hearts, I totally want to be a memoirist. I wish I had the skill of capturing a moment of my life and distilling it into a perfect story that somebody else might actually find some beauty in. I wish I felt like my own experience was important enough that other people should care about it more! That must be an amazing way to live! (c) You’re right on with the point about what it does for the plot – I think, ideally, it helps encourage us to slow down a little bit and think about the impact of experiences. It’s just a week at a beach house, right? Or maybe it’s more. And, finally, (d) man did it help do some structural work. It’s a common cheat, diary entries and the like, as a way to sneak in a little more exposition without dumping it all over your reader. I’m not even a little sorry, because I ended up really loving and enjoying the little interstitial bits of Nik and Aaron’s writing that it allowed me to sneak in there.

What was the inspiration for the title?

So there’s a scene in the book where they sing at the wedding, and the song they sing is Ben Folds’ The Luckiest. Google it – it’s gorgeous. But I loved the parallel of that title with the two central characters, because really: who is lucky enough to get it so damn right the first time out, and then also get a second chance after you’ve blown it all to hell by being a dumb teenager? They are, most sincerely, the luckiest.

Do you stay in touch with your old school friends and did that help inspire your story?

Not. Even. A little bit. I have a really active and close group of friends in the city where I live, and most of those I’ve met on the internet over the last 10 years, or through work. It’s definitely the case that Aaron and Nik’s friends from The Luckiest are more wish-fulfillment than anything inspired by my real life. (Also, though: I’m so much older than Aaron and Nik! A thing I’ve thought about a lot is which of those people they’ll still be close to in another 10 years. I think Alex and David will stay, and probably Stephanie, in her own slightly distant, self-absorbed way. I am really not sure about Jasmine. That girl worries me. I am probably too attached.)

. How do you choose a setting?

Well, first of all: I have to have been there. The internet is great and all, but honestly, you can get so much just from sitting on a bench for an hour – who’s walking by, what the air smells like, whether it sounds like bells or traffic or trucks or water, where the shade is, whether you need a sweater at night. And then I like to think about what kinds of stories that place might have to tell. Texas was an easy pick, in this case, because I know it so well. Texans are proud and so many never leave the state because they don’t have to; it’s a huge place, the economy is growing well, and there is work to be had. The people who do leave (especially those who have deep roots there) do so because they have reasons: they don’t feel comfortable there, or they want to try something very distinctively different, or because they needed some kind of escape. Being from a place like that, a place you never HAVE to leave, marks you as a little bit different when you do – and that is a story worth thinking about, I think.

Favorite wedding themed book or movie?

Besides this one?

So, first: when I was thinking about this book, way way back in the beginning, I thought about it as a ‘Big Chill’ story. Obviously it’s a little bit different – a funeral story is especially depressing about characters so young – but the central idea of all these people in a house as the central setting was the common thread.

Which, now that you’ve asked this question, makes me feel kind of dumb. Because one of my all-time favorite favorite movies is ‘Monsoon Wedding’, a Mira Nair film from 2001, and there’s a good handful of common elements: people coming together for a wedding; that exciting/manic/ awkward energy of people who don’t see each other very often anymore coming together; and a secondary love story between the guy who comes to build the whole wedding and another member of the household. Huh. Look at that.

What’s next for Mila McWarren?

So much work to catch up on! In terms of fiction writing, though: I honestly have no idea. I really believe in the value of letting my brain go fallow for a little bit and then waiting to see what grows up. There are just the barest green shoots now and there’s not even a central character attached but I’ll say this: every year I go to San Diego with my husband for Comic-Con, and we nerd out pretty hard. This year it just might turn into a little bit of a research trip.

Thanks! This was really fun!

Blurb:

When New York-based memoirist Aaron Wilkinson gathers with his high school friends to marry off two of their own, he is forced to spend a week with Nik, the boy who broke his heart.

As they settle into the Texas beach house where the nuptials will be performed, Nik quickly makes his intentions clear: he wants Aaron back. “He’s coming hard, baby,” a friend warns, setting the tone for a week of transition where Aaron and Nik must decide if they are playing for keeps.

Pages or Words: 256 pages

Categories: Contemporary, Gay fiction, M/M Romance, New Adult, Romance

Excerpt:

Aaron finishes the song and Stephanie snatches the mic out of his hand, crooks her finger at Nik and launches them into a reprise of their performance of “Dancing on My Own” from the homecoming weekend they all spent here at the house back in senior year. Stephanie still has questionable rhythm and tragic pitch—she loves to sing, which is why they have a karaoke machine in this house, but it’s one thing she will admit she doesn’t have much of a gift for—but there’s a reason Nik majored in music at The University of Texas, and his voice has come a long way.

Somehow, this deliberate throwback to a memory that was never anything but happy seems different than what Aaron has just done. He sits on the sofa, flanked by Alex and Jasmine, hating them both a little for participating in it even while he smiles. Nik dances—how can you not, with this song—but he still watches Aaron, gives him a little head-tilt during the chorus, and it’s charming and devastating and infuriating.

Jasmine leans to murmur, “Oh, I see how it is.”

“Oh, shut up.” 

“You might not be desperate, but I’m not sure about him. He’s coming hard, baby.”

About the author:

Mila McWarren grew up in Texas, but has happily made her home on the East Coast for the last decade. In her day job she works as a social scientist and has spent the last 10 years developing her fiction writing online. She lives with her husband and their two kids. When she isn’t using working, writing, or hanging out with her family, she likes knitting and watching television, because they go together like peanut butter and chocolate, two of her other great loves.

Where to find the author:

Twitter: @milamcwarren
Tumblr: https://www.milamcwarren.tumblr.com
Website: https://www.milamcwarren.com

Contest

Enter to win a Rafflecopter Prize: One $25 Interlude Press gift card. Five e-book copies of ‘The Luckiest’. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Link and prizes provided by the author and Pride Promotions.

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 Tour Dates & Stops: July 7 – July 20, 2015
7-Jul

Prism Book Alliance

Because Two Men Are Better Than One

Foxylutely Book Reviews

8-Jul

Book Reviews, Rants, and Raves

Nic Starr

Hearts on Fire

9-Jul

MM Good Book Reviews

Mikky’s World of Books

Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words

10-Jul

Sinfully Addicted to All Male Romance

Inked Rainbow Reads

13-Jul

Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews

Bike Book Reviews

14-Jul

Happily Ever Chapter

Amanda C. Stone

15-Jul

Bayou Book Junkie

BFD Book Blog

16-Jul

Velvet Panic

Chris McHart

Love Bytes

17-Jul

Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies, Oh My

My Fiction Nook

Full Moon Dreaming

20-Jul

Molly Lolly

Multitasking Mommas

Divine Magazine

Rainbow Gold Reviewsul
Book Reviews, Rants, and Raves
Nic Starr
Hearts on Fire

9-Jul
MM Good Book Reviews
Mikky’s World of Books
Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words

10-Jul
Sinfully Addicted to All Male Romance
Inked Rainbow Reads

13-Jul
Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews
Bike Book Reviews

14-Jul
Happily Ever Chapter
Amanda C. Stone

15-Jul
Bayou Book Junkie
BFD Book Blog

16-Jul
Velvet Panic
Chris McHart
Love Bytes

17-Jul
Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies, Oh My
My Fiction Nook
Full Moon Dreaming

20-Jul
Molly Lolly
Multitasking Mommas
Divine Magazine
Rainbow Gold Reviews

A Stella Review: The Storm Before The Calm by Cate Ashwood

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

Charlie has one passion in life: dancing. It’s his salvation when it feels like the world is swallowing him whole. When his mom secretly secures him a spot in the summer intensive at the Free Rein Dance Company in New York, he is thrilled. He knows that once the summer ends, he’ll have to return to Beacon to get a job and help support his family, but for those two months, he can spread his wings.

In New York he meets Max, a junior instructor who is everything Charlie wishes he could be. Bold and self-assured, Max radiates pride in who he is. As they spend time together, Max shows Charlie what life can be like past the walls of his closed-minded home town. But Charlie doesn’t know if he’s ready to show the world who he truly is when standing in the spotlight is the last thing he wants.

I think I became a Cate Ashwood fan since the first time I read one of her books called Keeping Sweet and I can say that she hasn’t once disappointed me. The Storm Before The Calm was another winner. Simply beautiful and perfect. I highly recommend it! It’s a positive book, light, sweet, full of emotions. Exactly what I love to read!

The story between Charlie, just graduated from high school and Max, a twenty-one years old dance instructor, was a joy to read. The chemistry between them was explosive. They were good for each other. In a safe place and with a safe and right person, Charlie was finally able to be himself, he simply flourished. I usually tend to prefer stories with older MCs, but Max and Charlie were mature in their youth, solid in their feelings and career.

I was in love with Charlie’s mom. She was so sweet. I loved their relationship. It’s how I imagine a family should be. She raised him alone, she’s the greatest supporter of Charlie’s passion, dancing. She paid for his lessons even when they didn’t have much money. She’s the one to book him a summer internship in a dance company in New York.

Dancing is not just a passion to Charlie, it’s his lifeline, the only thing that saved his life in his worse days at high school. Days spent to be bullied and with no one to step by his side. Days spent feeling dirty. The same days spent in the beautiful world the dance is.

“When I reached my bathroom, I closed the door, locking it behind me. My mom wasn’t home, but shutting out the world made me feel better somehow. I stripped off my clothes and stepped into the shower, turned on the water and stood under the spray. It was so hot I almost couldn’t stand it, but I needed as much heat as possible to melt away the muck that clung to me. I scrubbed at my skin until it was red and raw, then stepped forward, bracing my hand against the wall as I let my head fall under the water. My tears mixed with the spray from the shower, and I could almost pretend they weren’t there at all. I let them fall freely, sobs shaking my body. All the frustration and anger and hurt I’d bottled up during the day spilled out of me. Dylan would never see me cry. Never. In this place, locked away, it was safe to let go.”

The first couple of chapters were a little hard to read to me. Charlie broke my heart in more than one scene. I was afraid to have stepped in an heavy story, full of angst, something good but at the same time depressing, you know what I mean?

Fortunately, apart for a dozen of tears I shed at the start, this book was light and sweet. The story was good, the writing perfect and the characters amazing. I couldn’t have asked for more! And the title is right, exactly what the book is about.
5 full stars!

Cover art by Anna Sikorska. Beautiful cover! The icing on the cake.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press | All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

Book Details:

Published June 5th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press
ebook, 200 pages
ISBN13 9781634760867
Edition language English

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AMAZON http://www.amazon.com/Storm-Before-Calm-Cate-Ashwood-ebook/dp/B00YHHHJZ6

DSP

Its Time to Reveal the Deliciously Dark Cover for Rick R. Reed’s “A Demon Inside” (excerpt and giveaway)

A DEMON INSIDE by Rick R. Reed
Release Date: August 25, 2015

Publisher: DSP Publications
Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

Sales Links: DSP Publications eBook | DSP Publications Paperback**

**DSPP is running a promo where if you pre-order the paperback, you get the ebook in all formats FREE.

Hunter Beaumont doesn’t understand his grandmother’s deathbed wish: “Destroy Beaumont House.” He’s never even heard of the place. But after his grandmother passes and his first love betrays him, the family house in the Wisconsin woods looks like a tempting refuge. Going against his grandmother’s wishes, Hunter flees to Beaumont House.

But will the house be the sanctuary he had hoped for? Soon after moving in, Hunter realizes he may not be alone. And with whom—or what—he shares the house may plunge him into a nightmare from which he may never escape. Sparks fly when he meets his handsome neighbor, Michael Burt, a caretaker for the estate next door. The man might be his salvation… or he could be the source of Hunter’s terror.

Hunter wasn’t sure how much time had passed as he wandered the rooms, thinking, but he knew he should be getting back to Ian. He remembered there was a back staircase, not nearly as grand as the large curving one at the front, but closer. It led down to the kitchen and was narrow, for utilitarian purposes only.
The stairway was close… and dark. Hunter needed to grip the walls as he made his way down the raw wooden stairs. Before he even saw it, he felt it, the web of a spider, sticky yet almost ephemeral, clinging to his face. And in dim periphery, he saw a fat, hairy brown spider, alerted to a catch, begin to make its way toward his face. Hunter struggled to get out of the web, trying to tear the gluey strands away from him. He gasped as some of the web got into his mouth and was horrified at the thought that the spider might follow suit.
He pushed onward down the stairs, stumbling, the web clinging to him, accompanied by the crawly sensation of the spider now making its way through his hair. From below he heard laughter. He realized Ian must have returned to the house and glimpsed his predicament. The laughter grew along with Hunter’s horror at the web. He batted at it, struggling to get down the stairs and away from the spider.
After jumping down the last few stairs, Hunter managed to get most of the spider’s web off himself and at last to fling the advancing beast to the floor. He looked back to see it scurry away.
He had a few choice words for Ian, which he started right in on before even seeing the man. “What’s wrong with you? Couldn’t you have helped me? Who knows if that damn spider wasn’t poisonous? And to laugh at me! I just don’t get—” Hunter stopped talking all at once in the middle of the bright, sun-drenched kitchen.
He was alone.
“Ian?” Hunter moved through the other rooms. Ian was nowhere to be found.
“Ian? This isn’t funny. Come out now.” Behind him he heard giggling. Hunter whirled around and was confronted with only empty space. This was not like Ian at all, not at all like the kind but rather staid and humorless friend of the family Hunter had always known. He did one more search of the first floor rooms, assuring himself that all were empty.
Hunter hurried from Beaumont House and stood for a moment after closing and locking the doors behind him, composing himself. The sensation of being watched returned once more, and this time Hunter could pinpoint where it came from. He turned quickly, surveying the upstairs windows, but all of them were dark, reflecting only the sun.
Hunter knew the car was just a few yards away, but as he rushed to it, his foot caught on a bramble, which brought him to his knees. He skinned his hands as he went down. “Jesus,” he whispered… and then tensed. He could feel someone behind him, drawing closer. He was sure it wasn’t Ian. Hunter squeezed his eyes shut, muscles tensing, as he felt hot breath on his neck. He wanted to scream but had no voice.
He turned quickly.
And there was no one there.

Rick R. Reed Biography:  Rick R. Reed is all about exploring the romantic entanglements of gay men in contemporary, realistic settings. While his stories often contain elements of suspense, mystery and the paranormal, his focus ultimately returns to the power of love. He is the author of dozens of published novels, novellas, and short stories. He is a three-time EPIC eBook Award winner (for Caregiver, Orientation and The Blue Moon Cafe). Raining Men and Caregiver have both won the Rainbow Award for gay fiction. Lambda Literary Review has called him, “a writer that doesn’t disappoint.” Rick lives in Seattle with his husband and a very spoiled Boston terrier. He is forever “at work on another novel.”

You can find Rick R. Reed via the following:

Web: http://www.rickrreed.com
Blog: http://rickrreedreality.blogspot.com/
 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rickrreedbooks
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/rickrreed.
E-mail: jimmyfels@gmail.com

Enter to win a Rafflecopter Prize: A signed paperback copy of A DEMON INSIDE upon its release. Note, the offer is available only to those residing in the US. Foreign winners will get an ebook copy in the format of their choice. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Link and prizes provided by the author and Pride Promotions.

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Tour Dates & Stops: July 8, 2015
Parker Williams, Mikky’s World of Books, Divine Magazine, MM Good Book Reviews, TTC Books and More, My Fiction Nook, Bayou Book Junkie, Inked Rainbow Reads, Jessie G. Books, Andrew Q. Gordon, Multitasking Mommas, Wake Up Your Wild Side, BFD Book Blog, The Fuzzy, Fluffy World of Chris T. Kat, Because Two Men Are Better Than One, Hearts on Fire, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Tara Lain, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, Happily Ever Chapter, Molly Lolly, The Hat Party, Amanda C. Stone, Love Bytes, 3 Chicks After Dark, Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies, Oh My, Velvet Panic, Dawn’s Reading Nook, Rainbow Gold Reviews, Elin Gregory, Up All Night, Read All Day

A Sammy Review: The Right Time (Right and Wrong #3) by Lane Hayes

Rating: 5 stars out of 5

“Nate, you’re a control freak with illusions of grandeur. Bad things happen sometimes. Thank you for sharing your confession. I absolve you. You can go on with your life now, and let go of your guilt.”

I chuckled humorlessly. “That easy, eh? Where have you been all these years?”

“Right here waiting to be your hero and set you free. It all comes down to being in the right place at the right time.”

Nate’s always been the one to run from things. He buries himself in work and deals and things that are easy to separate from emotion. This time he runs to Santa Monica, where with the help of his friends, he rents a beautiful apartment. What he doesn’t expect is for a loud neighbor slash landlord to be anything but annoying. Sweet, funny, endearing, so full of life. Everything about Alex pulls Nate in, and like a spark it lights and sets flames.

But if it were all about the fire and passion, life would be easy. That’s not the case. Nate has his own demons to deal with and Alex has to work his way around a religious father and navigating coming out. But there’s something to be said for finding each other at the right time, and their time is now.

“I want to give you something. A song. A piece of music. Something for you to remember me. I don’t want you to hear Beethoven and feel sad about things that never could be. I want to give you… hope.”

OH GOD. First off, let me just put it out there that this book was like a slow serenade for me. It took me a bit, but I began to slowly fall in love with it and then all at once I crashed and was completely and totally infatuated. Kind of like Alex and Nate’s journey. Slow and tentative at first and then BAM.

Where do I even start? Well, I guess the beginning is as good a place as any. This took me a bit longer to get into, but I think that may have had to do with some life stresses more than the story itself. I found Alex completely charming and authentic and though Nate was completely different from him, I was equally enamored with him and the rawness to his character. It may be cheesy, but they just fit together so well. Nate – who is serious and needs help to let loose, Alex – who is so free but needs someone to ground him, to be there and live in the moments with him. They were each others people. Simple as that.

We had gotten glimpses of them in the past, and it all led very nicely into this one. For those who are wondering, we do get some lovely guest appearances from the other boys (including Mack!) It was really a perfect balance of giving the readers some older favorites but building these great new favorites too (but who am I kidding, they’re all favorites).

I also have to say that I think Lane took the thermometer and cranked that puppy up. This was sizzling. I literally heard it crackling as I was reading! From sex in the dark hallway of a club to a jealous encounter in the gym leading to a sexy laundry room encounter and the truly passionate exchanges in between. There were some simple details that really pulled me in, like when one character would frame the others face with his arms and lean forward. It was just so smooth and wonderful.

And then there was the humor, which wasn’t as rampant as one may be used to with Lane’s books, but was still there and had me smiling (like how there’s no real loser in a bet where a blowjob is being exchanged.)

It was like getting a glimpse through thick fog of something profound, something just out of reach. I was so close. And this time, I wasn’t alone.

When it comes to the conflicts that they were dealing with, while the issue between Nate and Julie isn’t revealed until close to the end, I had a good idea of what it was. As a social worker, I see a lot of things, and how they were feeling was so palpable to me, even without the words behind it. I want to make a note that this does not necessarily mean that things were dealt with in the healthiest of ways, but that’s just so human and so real that it touched me. And really, who prescribes how you deal with that situation? I cannot imagine the heavy burden that comes with it. It, like the rest of the story, felt authentic.

My heart felt this story in the last fifty percent like a consistent beat weighing heavily on it. I felt for the characters in my gut and even teared up when that feeling became so incredibly intense (paired with classical music). In a word, this book left me utterly charmed.

I certainly hope it’s not the last we see of these characters. There’s still more to know and learn. But still, thank you Lane for another great story.

The cover by Aaron Anderson is nice and simple. It easily flows with the other covers in the series. I do have a bit of an issue with the placement of the white and how it makes it look like he has a vanishing arm, but it’s still a nice cover.

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press | All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

Book Details:

ebook, 220 pages, also in paperback
Expected publication: June 26th 2015 by Dreamspinner Press
ISBN139781634762175
edition languageEnglish
url https://lanehayes.wordpress.com/coming-soon/
seriesRight and Wrong #3

Series: Right and Wrong

In the Spotlight: Lane Hayes ‘ The Right Time (Right & Wrong Stories # 3 ) excerpt and giveaway

The Right Time (Right & Wrong Stories # 3) by Lane Hayes
Release Date: June 26, 2015

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press eBook & Paperback

About The Right Time….

Workaholic Nate Erickson is a successful real estate developer who thrives on long hours and stress. When a Los Angeles project prompts him to relocate to Santa Monica, he welcomes the change of scenery. Nate has always considered romantic entanglements trouble, but his sexy next-door neighbor isn’t easy to ignore. Which makes no sense, because Nate is straight… or so he’s always thought.

Alex Reyes is a retired professional soccer player turned West Hollywood business owner with an insatiable lust for life. He loves his family, friends, and work. But there’s one life challenge left to accomplish: coming out publically. Respect for traditional Latino values has kept him in the closet, but Alex begins to think he and his new neighbor might help one another combat their fears. As Alex and Nate forge a strong friendship, they soon realize facing their personal demons will take more courage than either man bargained. The reward is immeasurable… if the timing is right.

Pages or Words: 225 pages, 80,000 words

Categories: Contemporary, Erotica, Fiction, Gay fiction, Humor, M/M Romance, Romance

Excerpt for The Right Time by Lane Hayes

I hadn’t worked out with a professional in years, and it felt foreign to wait for someone else’s direction.
“Any issues with your shoulders or arms? Any injuries I should know about?” he asked, handing me the weights.
“No, I’m good.”
“Great. Start with your palms facing your thighs, lift them both over your chest, then lower the left. Good. And now the right.”
He stood over me diligently, making slight corrections when needed. My supine position gave me an interesting perspective. When I looked up, I noted how his strong brow offset his twinkling eyes. I swallowed uncomfortably and turned my head, only to find myself staring at his crotch. His dark shorts seemed to hint they were covering a generous package.
Holy fuck.
“You doing okay?”
“Uh yeah. Hey, weren’t you going to tell me about your Friday night?” I needed him to talk. I didn’t trust my thoughts anymore, and I was stuck in my current position crazily aware of a man in a way I hadn’t been in over fifteen fucking years. Diversion in any form was welcome.
Alex snorted. “I already told you. I went dancing, and oh yeah, I did get lucky.”
He added the last part with a hearty chuckle, no doubt catching my wide-eyed expression. I hadn’t expected that.
“Oh.”
“You asked.”
“Right.” I did? The strong flash of jealousy took me by surprise, but I pressed on. “Did you go back to the beach to get those girls’ numbers last weekend?”
He looked confused for a second, but a slow cocky grin soon spread across his handsome features as he crouched so his face was close to mine.
“No, I told you they weren’t my type.”
I gulped and watched his eyes lower to my throat. He licked his top lip and reached out to adjust my wrist.
“Lift ’em both at the same time, Nate. That’s it. Push it. Harder.”
I sent up a quick prayer I wasn’t sporting a tent in my shorts. Alex’s voice, touch, and yeah, the unintentional innuendos were making me nuts. And horny. I felt terribly out of my element. I wasn’t sure what we were talking about anymore, but the potent silence made me more uncomfortable than speech. Keep talking, I thought.
“So a dance partner?”
“What? Oh. Yeah, I think so. I can’t remember. It was just one of those things, you know? Sit up. Let’s give your arms a break.”
“Just one of those things?”
“Yeah. One night. No numbers exchanged. No hassle, no fuss.”
I had no words. Literally.
Alex chuckled gleefully as he led the way to a leg machine. He gave instructions and stood back to observe me for a moment.
“It’s not necessarily my favorite kind of sex, but hey….” He shrugged his shoulders with his hands outstretched as if to say “what’s a guy to do?”
I recognized this cue. It was my opportunity to commiserate about the trials and tribulations of being a single man with a healthy sexual appetite. Now was my chance to admit it was nice every once in a while to have sex of the nonsolo variety with someone who knew the score. But I was tongue-tied and equally aware of a completely different undercurrent. One I wasn’t brave enough to explore.
“You can stop having fun at my expense any time.”
Alex squeezed my shoulder and smirked playfully. “You’re easily rattled.”
“How so?”
“You seem like someone who has a place for everything and likes everything in its place. You have a routine, and you don’t appreciate any deviation. I should be flattered you came to the gym with me at the spur of the moment.” He paused, running his tongue over his plump bottom lip. “If you’re not careful, I’m gonna think you like me.”
The air between us crackled. Alex leaned forward so his handsome face was mere inches from mine. His proximity alone seemed to issue a challenge. Daring me to confess I was more than I appeared to be. I doubt he expected any revelations, but his intent was certainly to… how had he put it, rattle me. And damn, it was working.

About Lane Hayes

Lane Hayes is finally doing what she loves best. Writing! An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels. She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Lane discovered the M/M genre a fews ago and was instantly hooked. Her debut novel, Better Than Good, was a 2013 Rainbow Awards finalist. She loves travel, chocolate, and wine (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband and their very old dog in an almost empty nest.

Where to find the author:

Facebook: Lane Hayes https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008562883399&fref=ts
Facebook Author Page: LaneHayesauthor
Twitter: LaneHayes3 https://twitter.com/LaneHayes3
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7125719.Lane_Hayes

Contest:

Enter to win a Rafflecopter Prize: $25 gift card & e-book copy of ‘The Right Time’. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Link and prizes provided by the author and Pride Promotions.
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Tour Dates & Stops: May 26, 2015
30-Jun
Prism Book Alliance
Love Bytes
Carly’s Book Reviews

2-Jul
Bike Book Reviews
Hearts on Fire
Joyfully Jay
BFD Book Blog

7-Jul
Cathy Brockman Romances
Mikky’s World of Books
Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words
Wake Up Your Wild Side

9-Jul
Bayou Book Junkie
Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews
3 Chicks After Dark

14-Jul
My Fiction Nook
Molly Lolly

16-Jul
Vampires, Werewolves, and Fairies, Oh My
Because Two Men Are Better Than One
Inked Rainbow Reads
Emotion in Motion

21-Jul
Cate Ashwood
Divine Magazine
Amanda C. Stone

23-Jul
Rainbow Gold Reviews
Sinfully Addicted to All Male Romance
MM Good Book Reviews

24-Jul
Velvet Panic

25-Jul
Multitasking Mommas

What If You Get Your Wish?: The Answer Lies in Betwixt and Between (Edge of Night #1) by Alexis Duran

Betwixt and Between (Edge of Night #1) by Alexis Duran
Release Date: June 30, 2015

Publisher: Loose ID
Cover Artist: April Martinez

Sales Links: Loose Id

Obsessed with magical creatures since childhood, tabloid reporter Ian Evers never experiences satisfying proof that the magical realm actually exists until he falls into an entrapment spell set by a handsome but dangerous elf. Barely escaping with his soul intact, Ian is able to undo the hex, but he can’t escape the very real infatuation he’s developed for the fierce elf.

Ezekiel Stormshadow is a svarta, a dark elf who serves the queen of the dark realm. The realm of darkness needs the power of light to survive, and while hunting the last few magical beings on earth, Ezekiel discovers Ian, a light elf who’s unaware of his true nature and ripe for the plucking. Their brief encounter awakens a great hunger in Ezekiel, and he’s determined to feast on the light elf’s power and body before the queen intervenes and claims Ian for herself.

Driven apart by the ancient imbalance between the dark and light realms, an evil queen starved for power, and their fear of each other, Ian and Ezekiel are relentlessly drawn together even though their union might destroy them both.

Pages or Words: 38,600 words

Categories: Contemporary, Erotica, Fantasy, Fiction, Gay Fiction, Humor, M/M Romance, Urban Fantasy

“This is a dream,” Ian said and tried to sit up. The svarta moved forward, placed his hand on Ian’s chest, and pushed him down. His palm nearly burned an imprint into Ian’s skin.

“Go away,” Ian said as firmly as he could.

“Why? I feel a strong connection between us. Don’t you feel it?”

“Only because you hexed me.”

“I did no such thing. You sought me out. You drew me here.” The svarta slid his hot hand up to Ian’s neck and traced a finger along his jawline. “Invite me in and know ecstasy.”

Ian shuddered and tried to sit up again. The svarta leaned over him, two hands pressing now against Ian’s shoulders. He ran his hand up and down the arm cuffed to the bed. His incredible eyes held Ian’s like a snake mesmerizing a mouse. He kissed Ian on the lips, gently at first, tongue exploring, probing, before forcing Ian’s lips apart and plunging his tongue deep into Ian’s mouth. Not only did Ian not fight it, but he kissed back, sucking amazing dark energy from the svarta’s rough, wide lips.
It was, after all, only a dream.

Alexis Duran was born and raised in the Pacific Northwest. At the University of Oregon, her fascination with people and relationships led her to major in Sociology, but her main love has always been creative writing. She’s worked in museums, fashion, finance and film production. Her favorite job so far was inventorying the collection in a haunted Victorian Mansion. She’s had several short stories published in the mystery, horror and literary genres and is the author of the Masters and Mages erotic fantasy series. Her fiction has won several awards including the Rupert Hughes Award from the Maui Writers Conference. She lives with one dog and four and half cats. She is currently working on the next Masters and Mages novel and several other erotic novellas.

Where to find the author:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/alexis.duran.18294

 Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/AlexisSDuran
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/alexisduran1177/
Other: http://www.alexisduranblog.com
Loose ID: http://www.loose-id.com/authors/a-f/alexis-duran.html
Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8332457.Alexis_Duran

 Tour Dates & Stops:
Parker Williams, Rainbow Gold Reviews, BFD Book Blog, Scattered Thoughts & Rogue Words, My Fiction Nook, Molly Lolly, Bayou Book Junkie, Velvet Panic, Wicked Faerie’s Tales and Reviews, The Hat Party, MM Good Book Reviews, Jessie G. Books, Inked Rainbow Reads, Amanda C. Stone, Carly’s Book Reviews, Fangirl Moments and My Two Cents, Andrew Q. Gordon, Kimi-Chan, It’s Raining Men, Michael Mandrake

Enter to win a Rafflecopter Prize: $10 Loose ID gift card. Must be 18 years of age or older to enter. Link and prizes provided by the author and Pride Promotions.
Rafflecopter Code:
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Its Release Day for Damages Incurred by J. R. Gray (excerpt )

Its Release Day for Damages Incurred by J. R. Gray

buy Links: Amazon | Evernight Publishing |

Their world is crumbling on the King’s shoulders.
Elliot is missing.
George has failed and his demons are threatening to swallow him whole.
Jesse’s life is slipping through his fingers.
Zac is doing everything he can, but he’s plagued with flash backs of a life he can’t remember.
Can they get it together to save themselves or Elliot?

It was dark when he stepped out into the back entrance of the penthouse. His footsteps echoed through the halls as he walked. George should be in bed as he was generally an early riser, but Jesse half expected him to be consoling his pain with a slave.
He paused in front of the play room, swallowing hard. What if his actions had been the final straw in George moving on? What if…
It was too painful to finish the thought. He set his hand on the handle, telling himself he could face what he found inside. He turned it silently and pushed the heavy door forward. It was dark inside, only the lights of the city illuminating the toys spread over the massive wall. The door was soundproof, but now that it was open, all he heard was the light snore of a slave. He closed the door quickly and then pressed a hand into his aching chest. He stalked forward, seeing the flicker of a fire on the wall as he approached the living room.
He stepped around the corner to find George looking pensive staring into the fire, drink in hand. He paused, waiting for an invitation. One never came. George acted as though he didn’t see him. Jesse opened his mouth, but he didn’t know what to say. There wasn’t an apology that could even cover the pain he’d put George through.
He fell to his knees. “Forgive me,” he whispered.
George didn’t respond. Jesse fell forward pressing his forehead into the cool hardwood floor. Warm hands closed around his arms, dragging him to his feet, and he was enveloped in George’s arms. His eyes started to mist, and he couldn’t catch a full breath. It was all too much to bear. He’d left his heart when he left George, and there were no words for what it felt like to be back here. He buried his face in George’s neck and wrapped his arms around him. George kissed every spot he could reach on Jesse in their position.
It was so much more than dominant and submissive like this. Jesse’s heart ached. The pain radiated through his bones. He’d been holding off losing it for so long he hadn’t even realize how bad the pain had gotten, how numb he’d been.
Buy links

Other books in the bestselling Bound Series by J.R. Gray

Legally Bound – UK – All Romance eBooks
Breach of Contract – UK – All Romance eBooks
Illicit Activity – Evernight

About J. R. Gray:
When not staying up all night writing, J.R Gray can be found basking in the warm glow of the Miami sun, or at the gym where it’s half assumed Gray is a permanent resident. A dominant, pilot, and sword fighting enthusiast, Gray finds it hard to be in the passenger seat of any car. Gray frequently interrupts real life, including normal sleep patterns, to jot down nonsense. The bane of Gray’s existence are commas, and even though it’s been fully acknowledged they are necessary, they continue to baffle and bewilder.

If Gray wasn’t writing…well, that’s not possible. The buildup of untold stories would haunt Gray into an early grave or possibly a mental institution where the tales would end up on the walls in crayon and finger paint.
JRGrayBooks.com
twitter.com/theoriginalgray
twitter.com/booksbygray
facebook.com/GrayBooks
booksbygray.tumblr.com
theoriginalgray.tumblr.com (NSFW)
https://www.pinterest.com/JRGrayBooks/

Buy links: Illicit Activity

Evernight Publishing | All Romance

A Paul B Review: Fae For All (Cloverleah Pack #6) by Lisa Oliver

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Jax, Fafnir, and Aelfric are destined to form a triad. Two of the three try to deny their bond. But this is not the only problem. They must deal with outside forces who are trying to destroy not only their mating but also the entire Cloverleah pack.

Jax is a half fae, half wolf shifter. Shortly after his first shift almost 300 years ago, he was banished by his grandfather. Only one member of his Cloverleah pack knows of the entirety of his heritage. He has not heard news of his family for almost a century.

Aelfric and Fafnir are fae princes. They met while roaming the European countryside over 300 years ago. Because of their identical birthmarks, they know that the third person in their triad is a wolf shifter. They have been searching since they met for their missing mate. They have asked for the help of the omega of the Cloverleah pack to aid them in their search.

After members of another pack claim that they are the third for the fae, Jax insists that they are all fakes. Jax reveals that his is the true mate for Aelfric and Fafnir. The fae pair are upset that Jax has known for weeks that they are his mates. When challenged by the other pack for the right to the fae since the bond has not been completed, Jax defeats the other wolves. However, the fae pair becomes frightened when they see Jax’s true wolf form, a dire wolf. Jax is heartbroken as his mates seem to be just like his family and most other fae who look down on shifters.

As the three try to repair the damage done during their initial meeting, they must also fend off not only some leaders of the wolf council but also must deal with the elders of the fae world. After Aelfric registers their mating, the elders plan a huge celebration in finding the last surviving member of the leaders of the western regions of the fae world. Jax returns to his family estate where he receives a warning from his late grandfather. Will this new triad survive the upcoming celebration?

This is the sixth installment of Ms. Oliver’s Cloverleah Pack series. Reading the previous books will help understand some of the underlying plot lines and motivations of the characters.

It is rare that I give sequels a five star rating but feel that this book deserves one. I really loved the interactions between our three protagonists. Having been hurt by his fae family, you can understand Jax’s feelings when his mates are initially frightened of his wolf. I felt the enduring love that Fafnir and Aelfric have had after 300 years of being together, yet missing their third. The Cloverleah pack and the triad in particular must endure challenges not only from the wolf shifters but also from the fae rulers. Having to deal with the elders and the other rulers, Jax’s distaste for his fae connections is highly understandable.

I eagerly wait on the next in this entertaining series and highly recommend this book and series.

The cover art was designed by the author using Shutterstock and Dreamstime photos. It shows Jax and his wolf in front of what appears to be blue landscape.

Sales Links: All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

Book Details
Ebook,
Published: May 2015 by Lisa Oliver
ISBN:
Edition: English
Series: Cloverleah Pack
The Reluctant Wolf (Cloverleah Pack #1)
The Runaway Cat (Cloverleah Pack #2)
(Cloverleah Pack #3)
(Cloverleah Pack #4)
(Cloverleah Pack #5)
Fae for All (Cloverleah Pack #6)

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Its Release Day for

Beneath the Scales by Aurora Peppermint Release Day: July 9, 2015

Published by Harmony Ink Press Cover art by Anne Cain

Sales Links: Dreamspinner Press eBook & Paperback | All Romance (ARe) | Amazon | Buy It Here

✍✍✍✍✍✍

Aurora Peppermint on Beneath The Scales and YA Stories

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The Luckiest by Mila McWarren Release Date: July 7, 2015

Goodreads Link Publisher: Interlude Press Cover Artist: C.B. Messer

Sales Links: Interlude Press | Amazon

A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Author Interview with Mila McWarren

About the author:

Contest

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A DEMON INSIDE by Rick R. Reed Release Date: August 25, 2015

Publisher: DSP Publications Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

Sales Links: DSP Publications eBook | DSP Publications Paperback**

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The Right Time (Right & Wrong Stories # 3) by Lane Hayes Release Date: June 26, 2015

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

About The Right Time….

Excerpt for The Right Time by Lane Hayes

About Lane Hayes

Contest:

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Betwixt and Between (Edge of Night #1) by Alexis Duran Release Date: June 30, 2015

Publisher: Loose ID Cover Artist: April Martinez

Sales Links: Loose Id

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Its Release Day for Damages Incurred by J. R. Gray

buy Links: Amazon | Evernight Publishing |

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Beneath the Scales by Aurora Peppermint
Release Day: July 9, 2015

Published by Harmony Ink Press
Cover art by Anne Cain

The Luckiest by Mila McWarren
Release Date: July 7, 2015

Goodreads Link
Publisher: Interlude Press
Cover Artist: C.B. Messer

A DEMON INSIDE by Rick R. Reed
Release Date: August 25, 2015

Publisher: DSP Publications
Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

The Right Time (Right & Wrong Stories # 3) by Lane Hayes
Release Date: June 26, 2015

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Cover Artist: Aaron Anderson

Betwixt and Between (Edge of Night #1) by Alexis Duran
Release Date: June 30, 2015

Publisher: Loose ID
Cover Artist: April Martinez