Passing Through - Jay Northcote - 5/5

Don’t waste a chance at happiness…
Leo is a lonely workaholic with no time for romance in his life. His job in London takes all his energy and commitment. When he goes to Cornwall to stay with his terminally ill uncle, Edwin, love is the last thing Leo expects to find.

Tris lives in a cottage on Edwin’s land. Gay, but still half in the closet, he and Leo bond over their affection for Edwin, and the pull of attraction between them proves too strong to ignore. In Tris’s arms, in the wilds of Cornwall, Leo finds a peace he’d forgotten existed.

On his return to London, Leo finds himself grieving for more than just the loss of his uncle. 

When some unexpected news gives Leo the chance to return to Cornwall, he’s afraid it will be too late to rekindle things with Tris. But having learned much from his stay with his uncle, Leo doesn’t want to look back and wish he’d done things differently.

It’s time to seize the day—if it’s not already too late.

Review 5/5

What can I say about this book. I cried, but it isn't so much sad as incredibly emotional. A wonderful story in a beautiful location. 

Excerpt:


On the beach they crunched along the shingle to the edge of the rocks, then turned to look out over the sea. It was almost completely dark now, and the moon was rising, casting streaks of bright silver on the oil-black water.

They stood in silence, watching and listening to the crash of the waves. Leo’s heart felt suddenly too large for his chest. He was overwhelmed by the beauty of the place, a place that had barely changed since his childhood. The sea came and went with the tides, the sands shifted, but the rocks were constant. Yet here Leo was, an adult now rather than a boy, and his uncle reduced to an echo of the man Leo remembered—physically, at least. Unexpected tears prickled the backs of Leo’s eyes as a rush of emotion so strong that it made him draw in a sharp breath assaulted him. He swallowed hard, forcing the feelings back down.

Out of his peripheral vision, he saw Tris turn towards him, but Leo carried on gazing out at the gentle, rolling movement of the sea. Tris shifted his feet in the sand, bringing him closer. The warm skin of his arm brushed Leo’s, and Leo ached for more contact. He needed human warmth and touch to chase away the cold emptiness in his heart.

Author Bio


Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England, with her husband, two children, and two cats.

She comes from a family of writers, but she always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed her by. She spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content. One day, she decided to try and write a short story–just to see if she could–and found it rather addictive. She hasn’t stopped writing since.

www.jaynorthcote.com
Twitter
Facebook profile
Facebook Author Page
Jay’s books


Stolen Dreams - Sue Brown - excerpt

After cheating on and losing the man he loved, Morgan Conway decided to get his life right. Now he owns a coffee shop and is engaged to Jase, an actor and rising star. All is perfect in his world until the man he thought was gone forever walks into his shop. His hidden feelings rush to the surface, unfortunately there for everyone to see, including his fiancé.

Shae Delamere was crushed when Morgan cheated on him five years ago. But he has a reason for seeking Morgan out. As Morgan and Shae get to know each other again, they discover the extent that friends meddled in their lives to keep them apart. Morgan cannot deny he is still in love with Shae, but he is engaged. With some hard decisions to make, Morgan struggles not to hurt the men he cares about—again. Shae has secrets he came to share with Morgan, but revealing them now could keep them apart for good.

Excerpt

The gentle thudding of Shae’s heartbeat woke Morgan to the new day. That, and some interesting gurgles in Shae’s belly which Morgan had apparently used as his pillow.

Blinking wearily, Morgan raised his head to find Shae still fast asleep. Even now he looked exhausted, purple marks marring the pale skin under his eyes. They hadn’t fallen asleep until the early hours of the morning, Shae making good on his promise to let Morgan fuck him until they were senseless. Morgan frowned as he traced the dark lines. The man was obviously not getting enough rest.

“Stop staring at me.” The words were sleep-slurred and grumpy. As far as Morgan was aware, Shae hadn’t actually opened his eyes.

“I like staring at you,” Morgan said. “Creepy stalker much?” Shae grumbled but with the hint of a smile.

“You’re in my bed. That hardly counts as stalking.” Morgan buried his face in Shae’s neck, feeling the rasp of Shae’s beard stubble across his cheeks. His dick was little more than half-hard after the night’s exertions, but the feel of the soft hair on Shae’s thigh was adding a frisson of pleasure.

“It is stalking if you stare at someone while they’re asleep,” Shae insisted, finally cracking one eye open long enough for Morgan to see a glint of green.

Pressing his mouth to the hollow at the base of Shae’s throat, Morgan could feel Shae’s life pulse beneath his lips. “It’s just admiration, and a little amazement that you’re here in my bed again.”

Buy Links

Dreamspinner

Author Bio


Sue Brown is owned by her dog and two children. When she isn't following their orders, she can be found plotting at her laptop. In fact she hides so she can plot and has gotten expert at ignoring the orders.

Sue discovered M/M erotica at the time she woke up to find two men kissing on her favorite television series. The series was boring; the kissing was not. She may be late to the party, but she's made up for it since, writing fan fiction until she was brave enough to venture out into the world of original fiction.

Author Links


Because two of her book tours (for The Next Call and Stolen Dreams) are going to run simultaneously, we have decided we would have a common giveaway for both the tours! It makes for an awesome giveaway as you’ll see :D

There will be FIVE winners chosen from this contest:

1) First Winner will get a $20 Amazon Gift Card.

2) Second Winner will get a paperback copy of Stolen Dreams. (The contest is open for everyone and not limited to a specific region!)

3) First Runner up will get e-copies of The Next Call and Stolen Dreams each.

4) Two Second Runners up will win an e-copy of either The Next Call or Stolen Dreams.

Contest Begins: 26th January, 2015 - Contest Ends: 28th February, 2015



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule


Week 1

Jan 26th – The Novel Approach – Guest Post
My Fiction Nook – Promo Spotlight

Jan 27th – MM Good Book Reviews – Book Review + Promo Spotlight

Jan 28th – J. P. Barnaby – Guest Post
Bike Book Reviews – Book Review + Author Interview

Jan 29th – Alicia Nordwell – Promo Spotlight

Jan 30th – Prism Book Alliance – Author Interview
BFD Book Blog – Book Review

Week 2

Feb 2nd – Love Bytes Reviews – Book Review

Feb 3rd – L.M. Brown – Guest Post

Feb 4th – 3 Chicks After Dark – Book Review

Feb 5th – GGR Review – Book Review

Feb 6th – Queer Town Abbey – Book Review
Because Two Men Are Better Than One – Promo Spotlight

Week 3

Feb 9th – Foxylutely Books – Promo Spotlight + Book Review

Feb 10th – Charlie Cochet – Author Interview

Feb 11th – Joyfully Jay – Guest Post

Feb 12th – Sinfully Sexy – Guest Post

Feb 13th – Andrew Q. Gordon – Author Interview

Week 4

Feb 16th – Molly Lolly – Promo Spotlight

Feb 17th – Nic Starr – Author Interview

Feb 18th – Wicked Faeries Tales and Reviews – Book Review + Spotlight

Feb 19th – Amanda C. Stone – Promo Spotlight

Feb 20th – RJ Scott – Promo Spotlight

Week 5

Feb 23rd – Elin Gregory – Promo Spotlight

Feb 24th – Diverse Reader – Book Review

Feb 25th – Charley Descoteaux – Guest Post

Feb 26th – Inked Rainbow Reads – Book Review

Feb 27th – Elisa: My Reviews and Ramblings – Promo Spotlight
Fallen Angel Reviews – Book Review


Tour Organizer
Creative Minds Promotions
http://creativemindpromotions.wordpress.com/

Blog Tour Post - The Last Grand Master - Andrew Q Gordon

In a war that shook the earth, the six gods of Nendor defeated their brother Neldin, god of evil. For three thousand years, Nendor and the Seven Kingdoms have known peace and prosperity and Neldin's evil was nearly forgotten.

But then Meglar, wizard king of Zargon, unleashes the dark magic of the underworld and creates an army of creatures to carry out his master's will. One by one, the sovereign realms fall as a new war between the gods threatens to engulf Nendor.

Leading the opposition to Meglar is Grand Master Farrell. Young and untried, Farrell carries a secret that could hold the key to defeating Meglar—or it could destroy the world.

Farrell is joined by Nerti, queen of the unicorns and Miceral, an immortal muchari warrior the Six have chosen as Farrell's mate. As Farrell and his new allies make plans to counter Neldin's evil, Meglar forces their hand when he invades a neighboring kingdom. Rushing to help their ally, Farrell and Miceral find themselves in the middle of the battle. Cut off from help, Farrell attempts an untried spell that will either turn the tide or cost he and Miceral their lives.

BUY LINKS

DSP Publication - http://www.dsppublications.com/books/the-last-grand-master-by-andrew-q-gordon-53-b

Excerpt


Farrell didn’t bother changing, though he probably should have. Instead he went straight to the prearranged meeting place. Nerti waited for him, giving him a wink when he arrived. He redirected the Door, and they exited almost at the eastern edge of the plains. Nerti wanted to run first, so Farrell used the time to fill her in on his new training.
“Baylec is an accomplished weapons master who has trained countless warriors. You’d be wise to give serious thought to his advice on what weapon best suits you.”
Nerti’s smooth gait belied her speed. Farrell’s hair whipping about his face told him they moved faster than it seemed. “I don’t need to think about it. I already know it’s the right thing to do. Other than not training with Miceral, I’m really excited by the change.”
He leaned forward and Nerti stretched out her stride, running even faster. Through their link, he had the impression she enjoyed the run. When they reached the designated spot, he regretted not riding with her more often.
Unfastening his staff from his back, he tapped into the closest Source for energy. Still seated on Nerti’s back, he wove the metal end of his staff over the ground, imprinting the magic where he needed it. Slow and deliberate, the work required his total concentration. Nerti’s presence helped focus him, allowing him to work quicker than usual.
When he had finished, he was about to suggest they take one last run when Nerti interrupted his thoughts. “Miceral asks when you will be back. Horgon told him of your dinner plans.”
“The Six forgive me! I forgot to tell Ral about dinner. Does he sound mad?”
Nerti’s presence in his mind disappeared for a moment. “He said he is pleased you told his father to come but wants to know when to expect you.”
“We’re done here. I accomplished my goal for today and more. If you’d let him know how soon you think we’ll be back to the gate, tell Ral I need about half an hour more to get ready.” His thoughts raced in several directions. “Oh, and ask him if he can request food for three from the kitchen as well. Please?”
Nerti ran toward the gate, her white coat a vivid contrast to the plains in the rapidly waning light. Farrell used the time to practice what Baylec had taught him, trying to see how well he could move the staff while riding.
He opened a small Door to the western side of Haven just before they reached the mountainside. They arrived near the unicorn quarters, where Klissmor waited patiently for his mate. Farrell hopped down, kissed Nerti below her horn—something he had learned she liked—and redirected the Door to his rooms.
Exiting inside the foyer, he waved his hand absently to close the portal. “I’m home.”
He went straight to the bath chamber. The full tub reminded him he needed to key Miceral to the spell that would allow him to empty it himself. He quickly emptied it, turned on the taps, and started to undress.
The first tug on the leather vest made his nose wrinkle. Waving both hands, Farrell made the vest disappear, leaving behind an equally smelly shirt. “Got to put a new spell on that.”
Laughter erupted behind him, and he found Miceral propped against the doorframe. “When did you become so put off by your training vest?”
“I think whatever Erstad did to enhance the protections meddled with the odor control.” He peeled the offensive-smelling shirt from his torso, and it vanished with a flash before it hit the ground. “In case you didn’t notice, leather doesn’t smell so great after I’ve been sweating in it.”
Miceral waved a hand under his nose. “Um… yes, I’ve noticed.”
Sneering playfully, Farrell sat on the edge of the tub and tugged off his boots. “Shouldn’t you be pestering me to hurry up instead of helping me waste time?”
“There’s no rush. Father won’t be here for another half an hour.” Farrell stared at Miceral, certain they had less time than that. Miceral smiled, motioning for him to get in the now-full tub. “I added a few minutes to your estimate to give you some breathing room.”


AUTHOR BIO

Andrew Q. Gordon wrote his first story back when yellow legal pads, ball point pens were common and a Smith Corona correctable typewriter was considered high tech. Adapting with technology, he now takes his MacBook somewhere quiet when he wants to write.

He currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area with his partner of nineteen years, their daughter and dog. In addition to dodging some very self-important D.C. 'insiders', Andrew uses his commute to catch up on his reading. When not working or writing, he enjoys soccer, high fantasy, baseball and seeing how much coffee he can drink in a day.

AUTHOR LINKS


Website: www.andrewqgordon.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/andrewqugordon
Twitter: @andrewqgordon
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/+AndrewQGordon
E-mail: andrewqgordon@gmail.com

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

Kindle Voyager Giveaway 

Max And The Prince - unedited excerpt - Bodyguards Inc #3

Coming 27 March

Book 3 in the Bodyguards Inc series

Book 1 - Bodyguard to a Sex God
Book 2 - The Ex Factor

Bodyguard Max Connery is used to being mistaken for being younger than he is.

Being carded every time he buys a beer is usual. Even though he's just turned twenty eight and has two tours in Afghanistan as a pilot under his belt.

When a threat is made on the life of a prince attending University in the UK, Max is the perfect choice to blend in with students and to keep Prince Lucien safe. Even if it means joining the swim team to be by his side.

But, when death visits the University, abruptly this job is a long way past keeping the prince happy and safe. Instead Max has to keep Lucien alive.

~~**~~

Drawing back his shoulders Max knocked on the door and waited for the enter before going in. There was no shouting now, just a horrible cold silence. Max quickly assessed the situation in the office. He categorized Teddy the giant, six eight at least, broad, short to the scalp hair, a scar on his forehead, black suit stretched over his muscled frame, ear piece dangling on his neck, and a scowl carved into his expression.

Which left the other one the Prince. Right? Didn’t look much like a prince though. The man was slouched in the chair with familiar white leads from ear buds plugged into an iPhone. Max couldn’t see the Prince’s face, hidden as it was by the fall of the hood on a bright sapphire Cardiff University sweatshirt. Baggy jeans and scuffed converse finished the look of couldn’t-care-less rebel. Max could hear the music the Prince was playing from here. Not the bones of it to recognise an artist, but the high tinny beat of the music that flowed in time with the tap of the guys left foot.

“Maxwell Connery, Theodore Estevan.” Kyle indicated the Giant and Max held out his hand to shake and was treated to a quick once up once down from Teddy, or Theodore as he was being introduced. “And this is Prince—“

“This is your man?” Teddy interupted with something akin to horror in his voice and stood up so violently that he caused the chair he had been on to skitter back and hit the wall. “This child.” Teddy’s voice held an inflection, something Mediterranean maybe? Although it was lost in the sheer dismay in the tone.

Max didn’t drop his hand, and whether Teddy couldn’t think of another reason not to shake it, or whether he was just being polite, Teddy grasped him hard and there was a quick squeeze that was probably supposed to underline Teddy’s intimidating size and strength. Theodore was strong, that was undeniable, but Max didn’t flinch.

“Mr Estevan,” Max acknowledged.

Max waited for the introduction to the elusive guy under the hood. Instead Teddy grabbed his chair and sat back down. There was evidently no rush to include the Prince in any of this, not that the Prince seemed at all bothered. Apart from the tapping of his foot and the rhythmic rise and fall of his chest he didn’t move an inch.

“Max is one of my best operatives,” Kyle said. His tone was that one he used when he was calming Ross down after a missing stapler incident, all calm and encouraging. Like if he said something in just the right way then the situation would be diffused.

Teddy sneered at Max. “You told me this Max was a pilot, ex Air Force. I don’t see that in this kid.”

“I am former RAF,” Max said. “Ten years, including two tours of Afghanistan.” Max refused to be insulted by the open contempt and disbelief on Teddy’s face. If it wasn’t for one crashed plane and a faulty ejection seat he’d still be flying, and he was proud of what he’s achieved in his time in the service. People could judge him on his age but not when it came to his accomplishments in his career.

Teddy huffed dramatically, and added an angry shake of his head.

“If you think I am handing Prince Lucien over to the care of someone as… little… as this man. What happens when someone comes up to attack? Is he going to blow them over with a kiss?”

Max didn’t retort. He wanted to, but that wouldn’t be professional. No, he had to let Kyle lead this. But hell if he would forget that kiss comment. He’d find Teddy and knock all six eight of him on the floor then stand and laugh. There was no adage more appropriate than the bigger they are the harder they fall. Max might only be five nine but he knew all the moves to bring tree-size men to their knees.

“I’d suggest you show my operative respect,” Kyle began. Max cast his boss a quick glance. That kind of language didn’t get sales, Kyle’s words could provoke, and provoke they did.

Teddy stood up again and Max winced as the chair smacked the wall hard enough to leave scuff marks.

“Prince Lucien will not be spoken to like that. We’re leaving,” he announced theatrically, with a wave of his hand, and the gentle press of fingers to hood-guy’s shoulder.

At the touch the hidden man moved away from the hand and with an exaggerated sigh he pushed back his hood and pulled out his earbuds. Then he stood up but Max couldn’t get a good look at him because Teddy was in the way.

“You need to go outside, Teddy.” The guy’s voice was slightly accented but English enough so that it was difficult to ascertain the country of origin, similar to Teddy’s. Prince Lucien sounded tired.

Teddy stood firm, “I’m not—“

“Teddy, I’ll handle this.”

“I don’t trust him, Sir,” Teddy insisted.

“I know you’re only thinking of me, but please Teddy, give me five.”

Teddy didn’t respond but there was a visible tightening of his shoulders and he spun, deceptively graceful for such a big guy, to face Max. There was one final stern glare that dripped with so much warning Max nearly took a step back, then Teddy moved away and left the room.

For the first time Max got a good look at the man who had been hidden under the hood. Dark hair, tousled and messy from the hood, still managed to sit in that just out of bed look with bangs that dropped to his eyebrows. With the hair was the darkest of eyes, a rich chocolate brown, and hell, the kid had cheekbones to die for, and a wry smile on his face. He didn’t look like any kind of Prince that Max had seen before, certainly not all spit polished and serious like he’d expected him to be.

Max couldn’t help himself, he smiled back and extended his hand. “Max Connery,” he offered.

“And I’m Lucien Manganello. Could I possibly have the room for a few minutes?” He was talking to Kyle who looked at both him and Max with concern on his face.

Kyle scooted up from his chair and left the room his hand briefly squeezing Max’s shoulder as he went past.

“Please, Max, have a seat,” Lucien said.

“I prefer to stand, Sir.”

“Call me Lucien. Please.” He didn’t make a move to sit himself, instead he tilted his head. “Do you swim?”

Max blinked at the question. Swim? Was this a way to start a conversation? “I swim,” he said. He tried not to let the uncertainty in his head filter into his voice. He’d been on four separate jobs with BI and he’d never been asked whether he could swim before.

“How well?” Lucien tilted his head as he spoke his dark eyes narrowing as he assessed Max. “I mean you’re not tall, so your length would be less than…” he trailed away and stopped talking, a sudden flush of colour on his cheeks.

“I swim well enough,” Max answered.

“Well enough to be on a swim team?” Lucien sounded so earnest and so young. He was twenty-five but at this moment he sounded so eager and excited that Max felt terribly old. A swim team? That would involve swimming fast and yes, he could swim, but he wasn’t the fastest or the best swimmer out there.

A full sentence didn’t immediately come to mind. “Uhm…”

Lucien huffed a laugh. “Actually, you don’t have to answer that, I mean, it’s the perfect way to keep close to me, if you practice with the swim team I mean. Or maybe you pretend to be my boyfriend or something otherwise so you can come watch me practice. Because, I won't give up my swimming okay, whatever you say, however many times you lock me in a room, I will always find a way to get out and swim.”



The Changed Man: redeeming a character - KJ Charles

In my Charm of Magpies series, the hero Stephen is a magical law enforcer trying to keep a lid on magical crime in Victorian England. The last book, Flight of Magpies, shows Stephen under attack. An incredibly valuable gift from his lover Lord Crane is stolen, his apprentice is framed for the theft, and Crane’s life is put in terrible danger. All of this horribleness to poor Stephen is carried out by a minor villain, a ruthless, amoral, self-serving thief named Jonah Pastern, who changes sides whenever convenient…and who also abandoned his own lover, leaving him to go to gaol in his place.

Jonah sounds like a great guy, right?

The responses I had when I said I was going to write Jonah’s story included ‘WHAT?’, ‘That arsehole?’ and ‘Seriously?’ Author Elin Gregory described Jonah’s attack on Crane as “the most brutal thing in any of your stories … it’s going to take a bit for me to get past that”. And one of my beta readers on the MS expressed a strong desire to see Ben, Jonah’s unfortunate ex, “push the bastard off a roof”.

So how do you make an unreliable, maybe dangerous, certainly unrepentant villain into a hero that readers can believe in, who earns his own happy ending?

Well, here are my rules:

1) Play fair. If a character did bad things, he did bad things. No explaining away that the gun was never loaded, or all the people he assassinated were nasty so it was okay really.

2) Understand why. This is the most crucial thing in writing any antagonist or villain. Did he know what he was doing was bad, or did he justify it? What was his goal? How did he look himself in the mirror? Not caring, not letting himself think about it, seeing the world differently, telling himself the story a different way? Can the reader understand what drove him, even if she doesn’t agree?

3) His other half may grant him forgiveness in a spirit of love and mercy. The reader cannot be expected to. The story has to make him earn the reader’s trust, even if his lover doesn’t.

4) Even if the reader and the lover are prepared to forgive, what about the rest of the world? The relatives of the murderer’s victims, the people who were burgled, the outstanding warrants: there are consequences that have to be faced or escaped, but not handwaved away. If the assassin says he’s sorry and the FBI basically shrug and say, “No hard feelings,” his crimes might as well have been parking tickets.

5) Redemption can’t just work within the relationship. The serial killer who says “I won’t do it any more because I love you!” is clearly not a reformed character. The coward who risks himself, the killer who tries to save a life, the traitor who proves loyalty beyond any expectation: these are classic arcs because they show us people who’ve confronted their failings and tried to be better.

To sum up: For a villain to turn into a hero the reader can believe in, and trust after the book ends, the story needs to confront what he did, make the reader understand why, and show us both consequences and redemption.

A couple of examples at opposite ends of the spectrum, with spoilers for the Adrien English series and the Prosperity series:
Jake in the Adrien English books by Josh Lanyon is a pretty crappy person. He’s the love interest from the start of the series, there’s no turnaround on the reader there, but nevertheless, he cheats on Adrien (and on his girlfriend with Adrien), strings him along horribly, abandons him for a couple of years. But we know why (because he’s cripplingly closeted), we see his redemption when he saves Adrien at the price of the reputation he’s spent books screwing him over to protect, and by God he faces the consequences. Jake pays in full for everything, and learns from it. We can really believe in his redemption, and their HEA.

Milord in the Prosperity series by Alexis Hall takes ‘crappy person’ to a new level. He’s a brutal crime lord. Shackles confronts us with horrific cruelty, for which Milord is totally unrepentant. But we can see reasons for how warped he is in his terrible history, and more, we can see that the one good thing in his life is his lover, defrocked priest Reuben. It’s not that Milord tries to improve for Reuben. He doesn’t want to improve. He’s a genuinely bad person. But their bond is so intense and compelling that Milord is pulled towards being the man Reuben wants, and when he does come through with a decent act in Prosperity, it is spectacular. He is mostly unredeemed, there is no saintly turnaround, but the reader is left in no doubt of the rightness of their deeply odd relationship and Milord’s reluctant commitment to it. (If you haven’t read this series, RUN DO NOT WALK.)

And in the middle of the spectrum is my minor villain. Jonah had his reasons for what he did. He learns, in a hard school, the consequences of his acts, big and small. And he has the opportunity to confront his past failures. Whether what he does is enough to earn forgiveness for what he did…well, that’s up to Ben to decide. And, of course, the reader. Let me know how you get on.

With thanks to Emilia Agrafojo for the post topic! Do recommend your favourite redeemed bad guys in the comments, or tell me why they don’t deserve a HEA…
_____________________________________________________

If you stop running, you fall.

Jonah Pastern is a magician, a liar, a windwalker, a professional thief…and for six months, he was the love of police constable Ben Spenser’s life. Until his betrayal left Ben jailed, ruined, alone, and looking for revenge.

Ben is determined to make Jonah pay. But he can’t seem to forget what they once shared, and Jonah refuses to let him. Soon Ben is entangled in Jonah’s chaotic existence all over again, and they’re running together—from the police, the justiciary, and some dangerous people with a lethal grudge against them.

Threatened on all sides by betrayals, secrets, and the laws of the land, can they find a way to live and love before the past catches up with them?

Publisher
Amazon UK
Amazon US


My Inspiration Wall

I am lucky enough to have an office (aka converted dining room) and on the wall above my PC is my inspiration. Anyone that know me will know that I LOVE my cover art and that it inspires me. What you may not know is that I like, if I can, to have the cover art first. This inspires my writing no end and also means my guys descriptions match the cover. Of course the process of choosing the cover models is hard but it's just something i have to do (ROFL!).

On the top row are my released books (Heroes  and Bodyguards series). The second row is my WIP.

In order, I am writing The Summer House (English Hearts #1) next, then Undercover Lovers (Bodyguards Inc #4), then Deacon's Law (Heroes 3).

You'll also see signed pictures from Jordan L Hawk who I fangirled TO DEATH at GRL... poor girl.

There is also fan art from Karrie Jax who took a quote from Guarding Morgan (Sanctuary book 1) and made me some gorgeous art.

I don't fall in love on a whim. In fact, I've never been in love. For me this could well be my forever. I want it to to be your forever, too.

I also have a shelf for my print books (bottom left) but it's only a small shelf and I have run out of room... :O Oh and I have a calendar with my cover art on it currently showing The Barman and the SEAL (Ellery book 7) and Deacon's Law.

What do you think of my space?


Facebook Chat date with RJ - 15th

This Sunday (Feb 15th) I have been invited by Bike Book Reviews to have a web chat on Facebook...

The address for the event is here: https://www.facebook.com/events/761116780641371

I will be talking Max And The Prince, including excerpts, and also loads of future news and competitions throughout the time.

The event starts at 8pm GMT (for the time in your zone use this: http://www.worldtimebuddy.com/), as a guide the following times apply...

London - 8pm (Sunday)
New York - 3pm (Sunday)
Seattle - 12 midday (Sunday)
Sydney - 7am (Monday)

Really hope you can join me! RJ X


Storming Love: Blizzard by Sara York, Neil Placky, R.J. Scott, Vicktor Alexander, Nicole Dennis, Jackie Nacht



Storming Love: Blizzard – Jens & Elliot by Sara York 

Jens Arnesen is only looking for a taste of the city, a place to experience Boston. What he finds is a sexy naked man who ends up being more than he bargained for. Elliot Matthews needs a place to stay until the storm blows over and the airports open. Being walked in on by Jens starts out as an annoyance but grows into the best thing in his life. When the skies clear and the airports open, they have no choice but to part. If only they lived closer to each other then life would be perfect.

When the storm throws them together, can Jens and Elliot make the most of the situation?


Storming Love: Blizzard – Kimo & Mike by Neil Plakcy


Former competitive surfer and Honolulu homicide detective Kimo Kanapa’aka is in his element in his home state of Hawaii. But a ski trip with his partner, fire investigator Mike Riccardi, knocks him off balance. 

As a bitter storm rages outside the condo where they’re staying, one of Mike’s college buddies is feuding with his wife and the other is making sexy overtures to Kimo. 
Will these tensions ruin the vacation and perhaps even drive a wedge between Kimo and Mike?



Storming Love: Blizzard – Seth & Casey by RJ Scott 

The blizzard of the century has stranded teacher Casey McGuire and pupils at a country retreat. As a last resort and fearing for their lives he calls his ex, fireman Seth Wild. The same man who promised that he would always be there for Casey.

Seth is on sick leave after a terrible accident leaves him near dead. He’s wallowing in self pity and he’s already driven away the only man who cared about him. Casey. When he receives the call, he is the only person left to help and nothing will stop him.

Because if Seth can’t help, then very possibly Casey and the kids won’t make it out of this alive.


Storming Love: Blizzard – Layne, River & Damion by Vicktor Alexander (release date: 2/13/15)

It has taken Damion Martin six months to finally start to get over the startling break-up from his partner Layne Haylse. They’d been high school sweethearts and blissfully in love. Then the man suddenly wanted nothing to do with him. Having to work with him at Yale University almost every day made the separation that much harder. Meeting the young marketing major, River Cunningham, may just be the ticket to helping Damion heal.

But they say that to every story there’s two sides, and the truth lies somewhere in the middle. When a harrowing blizzard crashes through Connecticut, trapping all three men inside the campus library, they will soon find that sometimes things aren’t as black and white as they seem. When the truth is revealed, it may change their lives forever.

(release date: 2/13/15)

Storming Love: Blizzard – Gavin & Morgan by Nicole Dennis (release date: 2/20/15)

Drained from forecasting both hurricanes and twisters, Gavin Larson, a meteorologist, accepts a request to become the head forecaster for a Philadelphia television station. He goes for a trial time during winter. A calm, quiet winter where he can recharge. Until he discovers a series of potential events ready to clash.

Taking over his family’s position, Morgan Rylee Whittaker III feels the pressure to follow their lofty attitude, he can’t stay hidden in the executive suites. He jumps into the chaos. Bumping into the meteorologist, Morgan feels a thump of arousal, but listens when Gavin locates a dangerous blizzard heading up the coast.

Together, they protect and prepare Philadelphia from the incoming nor’easter. They dance around the steady beat of attraction brewing between them as the storm rages.

(release date: 2/20/15)

Storming Love: Blizzard – Stokes & Ford by Jackie Nacht (release date: 2/27/15)

Ford and Stokes are about to weather two storms; the blizzard coming their way and their growing feelings for one another.

Stokes has been rooming with Ford ever since the first day of college. Although his feelings had started out as friendly, over time, they have grown deeper. He’s fallen for Ford, hard, but how the hell is Stokes going to tell Ford? When college winter break approaches, Stokes decides to take Ford up to his parent’s rental to have a fun weekend with Ford and finally let his best friend know what he feels. However, with a blizzard coming in, they will have to weather the storm outside and in their hearts.

(release date: 2/27/15)

Series Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowSeries.php?_STORM2

Check out the other blogs on the series blast

Focus on the Heroes Series - book 3 coming this Summer

Cover Art by Meredith Russell
Heroes - Sometimes the wars you need to fight are the ones you left at home...

A Reason To Stay - Heroes - Book 1

When SEAL, Viktor Zavodny, left small town America for the Navy he made sure he never had a reason to return for anything other than visiting family. He wanted to see the world and fight for his country and nothing, or no one, was getting in his way. He fights hard, and plays harder, and a succession of men and women share his bed.

But a phone call from his sister has him using his thirty day down time to go home instead of enjoying his usual thirty nights of random sex and sleep.

What he finds is a mystery on the Green Mountains and the only man attempting to make sense of seemingly unrelated deaths. His childhood friend and first love... Lieutenant Aiden Coleman, Sheriff.

There were reasons Viktor left his home. Not least Aiden Coleman with his small town innocence and his dreams of forever. Now Adam and Viktor need to work together to save lives and prove there is a hero in all of us.

When it's done, if they make it out alive, can Aiden persuade Viktor that he has a reason to stay? Maybe forever?

Cover Art by Meredith Russell
The Book

Last Marine Standing, Heroes #2 - Out Now

Former Marine Recon, Mackenzie ‘Mac’ Jackson has secrets. The things he did for his country, the things he saw, must never be spoken about. Until that is, his team is targeted.

A shift in political alliances means one particular mission undertaken by Mac and his Fire Team needs to be wiped from the history books. Starting with the team itself.

Forest Ranger, Samuel Larson wants to find the Marines who saved his life. He just wants to say thank you. What he can’t know is that he's walking into a firestorm of betrayal and murder.

When Samuel arrives at Mac's place he throws Mac's plans for hiding out of the window. Abruptly Mac has to protect a man that threatens his heart, only this time he can't be sure he will succeed in keeping Sam alive.

When the people you trusted turn on you, when you are the last one standing, should you take your secrets to the grave? Or make the murderers pay?

BOOK 3 COMING SUMMER 2015



Add to Goodreads

Undercover cop Deacon Shepherd lost everything trying to maintain his cover - the man he loved and the future he craved. He walked away and never looked back because it was the only way to keep Jay alive.

The last thing he needs is to be dragged back in that world, but an attempt on his ex-lover’s life is enough to make him risk everything again.

Stefan Ramirez wakes up in hospital, the victim of a hit and run. He’s stunned when the first face he sees is that of the man who betrayed him and left him for dead three years before.

Witness protection had stripped Stefan of his family and friends and now it seems his sacrifice to bring his Uncle to justice was for nothing.

Someone wants Stefan dead and the only way he can stay alive is to go with the murdering drug dealer who broke his heart.

But how can he ever trust Deacon, and how can Deacon protect Stefan without blowing his cover, jeopardizing his new assignment and risking both their lives?




Pluck and Play (With a Kick #5)

Everyone knows Curtis Wilson around the Soho business scene: a hard-working, budding young entrepreneur, who can get you supplies of whatever you need, and always with a joke and a laugh. Only Curtis knows that’s a purely public persona. Secretly, he’s still licking his wounds after being beaten up by his ex-lover, and he’s not about to let his guard down again.

Handsome Riley Richmond was born to be a cowboy, on his father’s side at least. But after his parents’ deaths, he finds himself stranded this side of the Atlantic, an anachronism in the bustling capital, and without financial capital. His consolation is his music, albeit he’s not a very successful busker and he loses his only decent piano gig after standing up for Curtis against a homophobic bully.

After that, they keep meeting, partly by accident, partly by Riley’s design. He’s smitten, and doesn’t mind letting Curtis know. Their music brings them together – Riley’s guitar playing and Curtis’ sharp, sexy poetry are a powerful combination. But Curtis still has some unfinished business with his ex-lover that he’s struggling to handle on his own. Riley intends to be the man Curtis calls on for help, whether he likes it or not. He’ll do whatever it takes to show Curtis that people can still be trusted to be honest and caring – even if it means walking them both into danger.

Review 5/5

I have so much love for this series with alternating books between Clare London and Sue Brown. I love their look at London, and the cast of characters that appear in the books. This one is no exception. Loved it. Possibly my favourite so far - hell, I can't resist a cowboy... and how writing a book with Riley visiting home!

Buy Links


Amazon (US) | Amazon (UK) | All Romance

Other books in this series


A Twist and Two Balls (With A Kick #1) - Clare London
Hissed as a Newt (With A Kick #2) - Sue Brown
Slap and Tickle (With A Kick #3) - Clare London
Bells & Balls (With a Kick #4) - Sue Brown


The Next Call - Sue Brown

Mark Grayson volunteers for an LGBT helpline, the same one that helped him through his teenage years.

One day he takes a call from “Ricky,” a suicidal man being forced into a marriage he doesn't want. For weeks Mark talks to Ricky and provides support, but he’s frustrated by the lack of information Ricky provides and the decisions he’s making.

In the meantime, Mark starts a relationship with another volunteer. Then tragedy strikes and Mark takes time away from the helpline, but when he comes back, Ricky is waiting.

Mark realizes Ricky is stronger than before and their relationship changes, but Mark isn’t sure what their future holds if their relationship is destined to be at the end of the phone.

Buy Links

Dreamspinner

Author Bio


Sue Brown is owned by her dog and two children. When she isn't following their orders, she can be found plotting at her laptop. In fact she hides so she can plot and has gotten expert at ignoring the orders.

Sue discovered M/M erotica at the time she woke up to find two men kissing on her favorite television series. The series was boring; the kissing was not. She may be late to the party, but she's made up for it since, writing fan fiction until she was brave enough to venture out into the world of original fiction.

Author Links


Website: http://www.suebrownstories.com/
Blog: http://suebrownsstories.blogspot.co.uk/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/suebrownstories
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/suebrownstories

Competition


Because two of her book tours (for The Next Call and Stolen Dreams) are going to run simultaneously, we have decided we would have a common giveaway for both the tours! It makes for an awesome giveaway as you’ll see :D

There will be FIVE winners chosen from this contest:

1) First Winner will get a $20 Amazon Gift Card.

2) Second Winner will get a paperback copy of Stolen Dreams. (The contest is open for everyone and not limited to a specific region!)

3) First Runner up will get e-copies of The Next Call and Stolen Dreams each.

4) Two Second Runners up will win an e-copy of either The Next Call or Stolen Dreams.


Contest Begins: 26th January, 2015  - Contest Ends: 28th February, 2015



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Blog Tour Schedule


Week 1

Feb 2nd – The Novel Approach – Guest Post
Andrew Q. Gordon – Promo Spotlight


Feb 3rd – Alicia Nordwell – Author Interview
Diverse Reader – Book Review + Author Interview

Feb 4th – Elin Gregory – Promo Spotlight
Sinfully Sexy – Guest Post

Feb 5th – MM Good Book Reviews – Book Review + Promo Spotlight
Elisa: My Reviews and Ramblings – Guest Post

Feb 6th – Molly Lolly – Author Interview
Prism Book Alliance – Guest Post

Week 2

Feb 9th – Because Two Men Are Better Than One – Guest Post
RJ Scott – Book Review

Feb 10th – Nic Starr – Promo Spotlight
Inked Rainbow Reads – Book Review + Author Interview

Feb 11th – Wicked Faeries Tales and Reviews – Book Review + Author Interview
Love Bytes Reviews – Author Interview

Feb 12th – BFD Book Blog – Book Review
Queer Town Abbey – Book Review

Feb 13th – 3 Chicks After Dark – Book Review
Amanda C. Stone – Guest Post

Week 3

Feb 16th – Foxylutely Books –Book Review
Fallen Angel Reviews – Book Review

Feb 17th – L.M. Brown – Guest Post
Crystal’s Many Reviewers – Book Review

Feb 18th – GGR Review – Author Interview
J. P. Barnaby – Guest Post

Feb 19th – Charlie Cochet – Guest Post

Feb 20th – Bike Book Reviews – Book Review + Author Interview
My Fiction Nook – Book Review



Tour Organizer
Creative Minds Promotions
http://creativemindpromotions.wordpress.com/



Escaping From Him Liam Livings guest blog

Escaping From Him by Liam Livings


Darryl’s on the run – from controlling boyfriend Chris, an air-conditioner called Dave (deceased), an intolerable, claustrophobic situation and a person he just can’t be any more. The trouble is, he doesn’t have a plan – or any money – and all he knows is he needs to get away from everything. That’s where a lucky lift to Glasgow comes in, which turns out to be just the beginning of a whole new life …

Author Q&A


Your stories tend to have a cast of friends and colleagues surrounding the main couple, why is this do you think?
Apart from at the start of a new relationship, when you may disappear to Planet Boyfriend for a month or so, who doesn’t have friends? I find it more interesting to read and write having a circle of friends / family around the main couple. It allows for the main characters to ask their opinions on what to do, and what not do to. It means you can show different sorts of gay relationship, apart from the main couple – because there are as many different types of gay couple as straight couples. I wanted to have Gavin and Big Gav as another gay couple in the story too. I have some very rough plans to tell their story too at some point…

By having a circle of friends around the main couple it gives you space to write some interesting sub plots so it’s more than only about the main couple. I like TV dramas like Brothers and Sisters, which is quite soapy, with all the ups and downs and conflict between the different characters, so I suppose I tend towards writing more like that.

At the heart of the story I always want to have the romance between the two men, but as in life, I want to show the great variety of things that happen around a relationship too.

What songs inspired the story?

I Love It by Icona Pop was the inspiration for the whole story. The lyrics at the start, I threw your sh*t into a bag and pushed it down the stairs, gave me an idea of an opening scene where a man threw his boyfriend’s stuff into a black bin bag and pushed it down the stairs, and then I was off!

Fernando, by Abba. No way can I get this far without mentioning Abba in some way! Lena is Swedish, obvs, and she misses Darryl when he moves to Scotland, she says how long they’ve not seen one another. I imagined them being best friends for many years to come, like two soldiers, putting up a fight against life together.

Now we’re old and grey Fernando

And since many years I haven’t seen a rifle in your hand.

Your Disco Needs You by Kylie. Big Gav is a massive Kylie fan and I remember some years ago there was a trend for people – mainly gay men in fairness - to wear T shirts with Your Disco Needs You across the front. It was, as they say, all the rage. For some reason that popped into my head when I was thinking about Big Gav and I imaged how great it would be to have a big hairy man mountain of a bear with that T shirt on, years after it was fashionable, and as soon as I’d thought of it, I knew that was *exactly* what Big Gav would do.

Excerpt

Darryl goes clubbing with his new group of friends


We went to Truvy Jones, the night club. Lena danced with Big Gav - the enormous hairy bear of a man mountain, full beard, long hair and a T-Shirt with Your Disco Needs You in silver glittery letters - after he'd lifted her over his head and danced with her on his shoulders for two songs. Gavin got drunk on gin, which I already knew meant tears, but he wasn't listening to us earlier. He ended up crying into his tonic, sucking his slice of lime and saying how much he still loved his ex - despite telling me, every time I'd seen him before, that he was a bastard. At its peak, we divided and conquered: Lena took Big Gav and danced with him, while I followed Gavin to the gents' toilets to hear his woes. Mid-story, Charlie joined us, leaning against the sinks in the gents' and said, "At it again, is he?" He looked at Gavin. "He does this every time he has gin. Every time. I told him last time, I wasn't looking after him, next time he was on the mother's ruin, and look who's doing it tonight."

I frowned at Charlie for not helping the situation. "Just because Big Gav is like your ex in some ways doesn't mean he's like him in all ways. They're two different people? I mean, I could do you a drawing but it would be a very simple one." I smiled and he looked at me, attempting a smile. I misted up the mirror and drew two stick men, writing 'Big Gav' under one and 'Ex' under the other.

Gavin stood, wiped his eyes with some paper towel. "I didn't expect to be in another relationship straight after, you know. I thought I'd have chance to do all the things you do when you split up with someone. Then the computer's rhythm throws up him, and I'm arse over tit, in up to my neck in love. I can't imagine being with anyone else.”

Buy Links


Escaping From Him is available from Amazon.co.uk and Amazon.com

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Escaping-Him-Liam-Livings-ebook/dp/B00SU3XN4Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422646214&sr=8-1&keywords=escaping+from+him+liam+livings

http://www.amazon.com/Escaping-Him-Liam-Livings-ebook/dp/B00SU3XN4Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422646265&sr=8-1&keywords=escaping+from+him+liam+livings

About Liam Livings


Liam Livings lives where east London ends and becomes Essex. He shares his house with his boyfriend and cat. He enjoys baking, cooking, classic cars and socialising with friends. He escapes from real life with a guilty pleasure book, cries at a sad, funny and camp film – and he’s been known to watch an awful lot of Gilmore Girls in the name of writing ‘research’.

He has written since he was a teenager, started writing with the hope of publication in 2011. His writing focuses on friendships, British humour, romance with plenty of sparkle.

You can connect with Liam


Twitter @LiamLivings

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/liam.livings

Blog http://www.liamlivings.com/blog

Question for ebook giveaway


What is the significance of the night club’s name, Truvy Jones? Comment with your answer...



Storming Love - Seth & Casey

Out today...

More information, buy links, excerpts here...







Storming Love - Seth and Casey Book blasts and competition links

Storming Love - Seth and Casey, book blasts will be appearing this weekend... I'm also running a competition to win ARe/Amazon gift cards or free ebooks - the link is below...

7 Feb - Dawn's Reading Nook

More to follow and I will update as I have the links...


Competition - going live 6 February ...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Sinclair Selkie - Chris Quinton

Folk singer Donal MacCraith is touring the Scottish Western Isles, documenting traditional songs and investigating his family history. He meets Niall MacLachlan in Stornoway and Niall invites himself along. He has a secret and an agenda of his own. Meeting Donal is the chance he needs to complete it.

American Donal MacCraith is on a road trip along the western coast of Scotland and the Western Isles. His family roots are there, but his main reasons for the extended vacation are the songs and legends. He's a folk-singer, come to collect some new old material.

In Stornoway he meets the Shielingers and Niall MacLachlan. Donal is attracted to Niall, but doesn't act on it, unable to guess if the man is gay or not. When he continues his exploration of Lewis in his rented motorhome, making for the small crofting community his grandmother left as a young woman, he finds Niall waiting for him on the road just outside the town. Donal invites him along, and Niall leaps at the chance.

Once out on the road, Niall makes a play for Donal, and they begin a casual no-strings relationship, though Donal senses Niall has an agenda of his own. Donal knows their fling won't last, but that suits him at first. Later, though, he begins to want something more, even though he has the feeling Niall is using him. He's right, and it's the clue in the old stories of the Sinclair Selkie Donal's grandmother had told him. That clue will lead Donal to the startling truth behind the legend, and they'll both be faced with life-changing choices.

Buy Links

Fireborn Pre-Order/Buy Link HERE
Amazon US HERE
Coffeetime Romance HERE
Kobo HERE