Charlie Novak's Blog, page 15
June 7, 2021
Author Spotlight: B. Harmony
It’s time for another Author Spotlight and I’m very excited to be joined by new-ish MM author, B. Harmony! We talked being a pantser in denial, writing on her phone and wrapping up her debut series.
Take it away Bree…
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hey y’all, I’m B. Harmony. A newbie-ish author in the queer romance world with a few books under my belt and many more to come. My survival instincts include iced coffee as a substitute for all other nutrition, the ability to outshine any sailor with my sassy mouth and love of four-letter words, and an all around need to supplement my mood with loud music; especially of the hard rock variety. I live in Northern Texas with my spouse, two kids, two fur pups and my favorite human (niece).
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
I am a Panster in denial. Which is to say, I plot books based on characters who show up in my head at the most inopportune moments of my life (sexy dialogue in the middle of a work meeting, anyone?) and then scrap everything when they take over. I don’t have a character to date who allowed a single plot point from my planning to make it to the final version. *shrugs*
Describe your books in only three words.
Steamy, fluffy, sweet.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
This question is perfect timing, I just wrapped up the third and final book of my debut series. Smoke Signals is planned to release on July 1st. It’s an age-gap romance with out-for-you themes and a sexy as sin salt-and-pepper firefighter, and of course, a wild line-up of supporting characters. This of course does not include the short story, Sterling Silver, which was released FREE as part of the MM Class of 20/21 giveaway over on ProlificWorks.
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
The B-Side. Without question, it will be the book that means the most to me as an author because it’s my debut. The book that thrust me into the world as an author. Tyler and Chance will forever be the ones I can look back to and say, “we did it, and it’s all because of you”.
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
A two-fold answer really. My favorite human, the person I dedicated my debut to, inspires so much of my writing on a daily basis. Outside of MFH, this community is inspiring. Interacting with other authors, bloggers, PAs and more in the queer romance community is amazing. The outpouring of love and support for one another, on top of the occasional humor and forceful motivation to stop procrastinating, really fills my soul.
What inspired you to start writing?
I’ve written on and off for years, but never published anything before The B-Side. I’ve always been a heavy reader and something inside of me just said it was time to quit hoarding my written words and share them with others.
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
*giggle snort* The word typical and my writing process should never be used synonymously. Working full-time on top of the trillion other mom duties I have every day makes it hard to write on a schedule without sacrificing basic self-care like sleep and showering. So, I write whenever I find time (at work, on my phone, at the baseball fields). Fun fact: The B-Side was mostly written at a bar on my phone.
I’ve learned that the harder I try to focus my attention, the worse my writing becomes and then I tend to scrap. Instead of trying to sprint, or commit a timeline, I write when I feel inspired. Sometimes it’s as simple as a scene playing out in my head that I translate onto the page later. Other times, a song will be playing and I know the words are ready to flow.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
A single idea comes first. It could be a scene I imagine. I never have a real plot as I pants my way through The characters. They are the only ones in charge around here, a fact my readers will tell you I complain about often. I have no control over a single thing other than their names. I do try to stick to certain tropes I feel fit the characters’ personalities, and plot some elements of the storyline. For the most part, nothing sticks and I have been known to scrap versions of my books when they hit the 30-40k mark. It’s painful, but based on the finished works I do have, a necessary evil.
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
For Real by Alexis Hall. Easily one of the best books I’ve ever read; so hot and hilarious.
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Second chance. Although not in any of my published works, it’s a trope I will be writing more of. I’ve always loved the angst with this one.
What would be your three desert island books?
Rocket Science by KM Neuhold, Lovers by Fiona Cole, & Dual Destruction by Kate Hawthorne.
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
This is the dream right here. I’d have to say Smoke Signals because this is my favorite book of the series. I’m going to go off the deep end here and say Rourke (as in Zilv & Rourke, IYKYK) since he was a bit of inspiration behind Dylan. As for the rest of the characters? No idea. This seems like a game I should play in my head more often.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
When I’m not at my job I’m at the baseball fields. My life is nothing but kids’ sports. Although, if and when I can (other than in the middle of this pineapple panini we’re in) I do love concerts. I have a bucket list of bands I must see live, and I’ve been working about six or so a year since I was twenty. A few hundred down, thousands to go.
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
Velociraptor. Tiny and feisty, so basically my spirit animals.
Bree Harmony, or B. HARMONY is an MM romance author with a penchant for rock music, headbanging, and writing about boys who kiss boys. Pretty obvious with the last name Harmony, right? With survival instincts fueled by iced coffee and far too many swear words to rival any sailor, B. Harmony somehow manages to produce (mostly sweet) contemporary MM romance, with plenty of steam.
For more information on Bree and her work you can find her on Bookbub, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, Goodreads and her website, and you can sign up for her newsletter. You can also join her Facebook reader group, B’s Harmonizers, for more news and updates.
Charlie On Instagram [image error]NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: @bharmonyauthor
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Signed Paperback & Swag Giveaway! 
" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/196899741_1008987783244036_8264129350718893696_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=H2yaEsc4mZgAX_iRsiX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=90a5aa25b8432c7dfbfad99df333c414&oe=60C393F8" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/195867688_310687277191802_1808796079471206539_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=NtLloRxyZdcAX9NfwJ0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=0f07f5d8db44551ffa36d1d395123048&oe=60C4C790" /> [image error] COMING SOON: SUMMER KISSES 
" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/195368886_857178851559267_5449723412799442760_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=7JaSW6ozkzYAX_2iF8B&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=b30ae795ceb14377e7be8b28601422d6&oe=60C51591" /> [image error] What's Coming Next? It's time for more Kisses " src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/194775387_488987922425585_7236235646660182487_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=Qm0aCNzDn0AAX9DArnl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=b9960bf3e89e4560310be6ec59a6ef36&oe=60C50D6B" /> [image error]Coming Soon: MM Class 20/21
" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/193292571_1052612188602638_7878447201440226700_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=2GNdAAz2oBsAX9-GcGG&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=697bd6b4616aca15218ab46029550bd8&oe=60C548CA" /> [image error]NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: RJ SCOTT " src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/191152746_1360130641073412_703853192767144323_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=ASR7_fJDucMAX-R6lA0&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=4516f0fcb21bddbb3f83d00e7fdeef95&oe=60C37991" /> 
[image error]
" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/189799259_769135763967870_393364792084829165_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=VoRBVgZwF58AX--1ODm&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=152518aa47b24870ea5f6006c9b7511a&oe=60C52012" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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May 24, 2021
Author Spotlight: RJ Scott
Today I’m super excited to be joined by none other than USA Today bestselling author RJ Scott! We talked heroism, Nora Roberts, telling stories and the zen space of watercolour painting.
Over to you RJ…
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hi – my name is RJ Scott and I’m the author of over 140 published stories, and have been published for 11 years now. I’m mum to Briony and Matthew (Matthew is autistic), and wife to a long suffering husband of nearly 30 years.
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
I write MM Romance, with a guaranteed happy ever after, full of emotion and very often featuring family, or found family. And heroes. I love a good hero!
Describe your books in only three words.
Emotion. Connection. Love.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
My next RJ release is Summer Drifter, book 2 in my Wyoming series, set in the town of Whisper Ridge, Wyoming. I’ve just finished writing it, and it is off into editing and will be released in July. I’ve enjoyed every minute of this book and I can’t wait for everyone to read it and enjoy Levi and Quinn as much as I enjoyed writing them! My next release with Vicki Locey is Top Shelf and that is out 25 June, book 1 in our brand new Boston Rebels series 
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
It would be a tossup between The Christmas Throwaway and Oracle. Oracle as that was my first published novel, and TCT because it captured something that made people want to read it, and kickstarted my very fortunate career
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
Nora Roberts was my go-to romance author growing up. She still is now! I met her in Ireland a couple of years ago and she is amazing 
her so much.
What inspired you to start writing?
A need to get the stories out of my head. I love telling stories, and it’s been something I’ve done since I was old enough to talk
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
I like to write a minimum of 2000 words on a typical writing day – this could happen all in one go if the inspiration hits, or it could be spread out over the day. In between (or after/before) I fill my day with admin, marketing, and other bits and pieces that my writing business needs
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
A single idea comes first. It could be a scene I imagine. I never have a real plot as I pants my way through writing the first draft. The character probably come before the plot – I spend a long time exploring them first
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
In my genre – Promises – Marie Sexton.
Out of my genre – The Chesapeake series – Nora Roberts
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Heroism in all its forms fits into most of my books in one way or another. That with a side order of hurt comfort I think
What would be your three desert island books?
The Chesapeake Series – Nora Roberts (that is actually 4 – can I have the extra one please? 
)
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
Oh god, this is hard. I would love to see Single made into a movie (Single Dad, first responder) as to who I’d cast… that would be so hard to think on. Matthew Daddario for the role of the confused, exhausted, dad. Thinks… who could be my doctor… Justin Hartley … noms… now I’ve got all excited about the idea!
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
I’m not sure it’s a secret as I’ve been sharing my journey so far, but I took up watercolor painting at the end of last year. Not landscapes and things, but abstract work. It’s my zen space when the world gets to be too much!
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
It has to be that quiet one with the long neck… Brontasaurus? Goes to check… brb… yep, brontasaurus it is. I love them in the Jurassic Park movies.
USA Today bestselling author RJ SCOTT has written over one hundred romance books. Emotional stories of complicated characters, cowboys, single dads, hockey players, millionaires, princes, bodyguards, Navy SEALs, soldiers, doctors, paramedics, firefighters, cops, and the men who get mixed up in their lives, always with a happy ever after.
She lives just outside London and spends every waking minute she isn’t with family either reading or writing. The last time she had a week’s break from writing, she didn’t like it one little bit, and she has yet to meet a box of chocolates she couldn’t defeat.
For more information on RJ Scott and her work you can find her on Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Goodreads and her website, where you can also sign up for her newsletter. You can also join her Facebook reader group, for more news and updates.
Charlie On Instagram
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[image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184944523_933791960747605_2599450314687572506_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=3c1Gxs0gci8AX-L3jPR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=2477304ce7b4266545947fbc5c88c29a&oe=60D0BCB8" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: KELLY FOX 
" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184032367_522850492063421_5752406265800740447_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=uGuB3AvV20MAX9CKGFY&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=780b0de88eb3575fbdeb1da0d20c517e&oe=60D3DE15" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184250647_376896420306118_5032023039164371928_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=7H-9fT095akAX_g6jYl&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=4f53b9d190b71355edc3d61f4a0e9510&oe=60D13A00" /> 
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May 18, 2021
Proficiency Bonus is HERE!
What do you do when the TV show you happen to be starring in gets cancelled, and your is character pigeonholed into a homophobic ending?
Rage? Cry? Or team up with the adorable pink-haired PA you met at Comic Con to fight for the perfect happily ever after?
Well now you can find out because Lewis and Jason are now LIVE on Kindle and KU!
Complete with plushies, Pokémon, Bear based RPG adventures (the animal kind), teeny tiny booty shorts and a host of familiar faces from across the Roll for Love series.
It’s my ultimate love letter to fix-its, and I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Cover by Natasha SnowOrganising yourself is harder than it looks—Lewis may be a highly proficient PA for two very successful cosplayers, but that means nothing when you’re living at your parent’s house after yet another failed relationship and trying to find some stable ground.
Jason Lu, star of Celestials, is stuck between a rock and a hard place. When the show is cancelled and his character pigeonholed into a homophobic ending, Jason must choose whether to fall in line or break ranks. But one misstep will mean bumping heads with some powerful people.
Teaming up with the very cute guy he met at Comic Con seems like a natural first step and now Lewis and Jason must choose between heartbreak and justice. As they forge ahead, they realise there are no bonuses for navigating life’s challenges, instead they’ll just have to fight for what they believe in.
But sometimes overcoming the biggest hurdles yields the best results.
Proficiency Bonus is a 79,000-word contemporary MM romance featuring plushies, Pokémon, and a fight for the perfect ending. It is book three in the Roll for Love series and can be read as a standalone.
Buy NowCharlie On Instagram [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/186833199_4171235839563329_7886704932162459485_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=bNWoR5aWVVkAX8Y8nMV&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=bc8a717602e03e4ee4d1971daffe743c&oe=60C8FAE0" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/186183442_1461699830933130_2317456395957324066_n.jpg?_nc_cat=102&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=YGwWP9vHEZMAX8eUbKV&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=55340c91792beacf3178a423e2fa8076&oe=60C94291" /> [image error] [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184944523_933791960747605_2599450314687572506_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=4bT-lKCedn8AX9Ox9EQ&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=bb89da76f6f4a24632a225483621bd83&oe=60C8D3B8" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: KELLY FOX
“I was so excited about reading Lewis’ story, and this book didn’t let me down. Add in the sexy Jason Lu and I was hooked. I love this entire series–five stars for each one. This is the third in a strong sexy romantic series, and I recommend this for anyone looking for a wonderful love story. If you haven’t started this series yet, I highly recommend that you do.”
RJ SCOTT, USA TODAY BESTSELLING AUTHOR
" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184032367_522850492063421_5752406265800740447_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=epWBgfKZCisAX9wkfQz&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=743260fa4d4166d554d8b383073a9860&oe=60CBF515" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184250647_376896420306118_5032023039164371928_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=reIfhzkJfVIAX-bkoLa&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=dab77a21d0f2e906da616a3518c219f3&oe=60C95100" /> 
[image error]13 DAYS UNTIL PROFICIENCY BONUS! " src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/182807136_491521205332531_983245501982717842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=n7xnKxUhusAAX-qNhUB&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=98e9790df2533c6fde7cb95dc25afa77&oe=60CC37C5" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/180793598_955472235263415_4851128551631797842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=MubDj8CuKLAAX_OuyCn&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=a053aa88163a5bae08b01cd41fc90a26&oe=60CB59E2" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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May 10, 2021
Author Spotlight: Kelly Fox
Today’s Author Spotlight guest is none other than the fabulous Kelly Fox, here to chat all things writerly and bookish! We talk using Dexter as a muse (but make it gay), size difference and how her home of Central Texas inspires her.
Take it away Kelly…
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hey y’all hey, I’m Kelly Fox and I write contemporary gay romance, which is to say that I curse way too much, drink exactly the right amount of red wine, and sleep far too little. I’m also lucky enough to live in Central Texas with my wife and two dogs, where the astonishing diversity of humans and landscapes and tattoo shops serve as my muse.
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
I love character-driven stories, and that’s easy to do with the citizens of Texas as real-life writing prompts. A friend of mine once described my writing as darkness wrapped in light. The ground I cover is typically considered angsty, but I write it with such gallows humor that the overall effect is hopeful. Just go with me on that.
Describe your books in only three words.
Snark. Heat. Heart.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
My latest release is Deep Impact, the final book in my Wrecked: Guardians series.
This series really allowed me to explore darkness and humor, and I love telling people that Dexter (the TV show about the principled serial killer) was my muse. Take a group of Dexters, but make it gay was my mantra, and I went all in. I promise, it’s not a dark series, but you’ll find yourself rooting for a pair of alligators named Millie and Dave. Deep Impact is the swoony, murdery conclusion that the readers have been waiting for, and it sets up my next series, a non-murdery ranch epic set in Central Texas.
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
Hard Target, for sure. One of the main characters in this series was sort of a villain at the end of the last series, and people didn’t have a lot of sympathy for him. On top of that, this book was supposed to be the next book in that first series, but then the words, “I’m reminded that I’ve got places to go and a body to dispose of” flew out of my finger tips.
I recoiled in horror and tried to ignore the implication, but… the character wouldn’t let me. And just like that I knew that I’d just started a new series, a spin-off of the original combat vet story line. So, I’m proud of it because a) it’s hilarious, b) people love the character they were determined to hate, and c) I did the scary thing and followed the characters where they took me.
It’s possible I’m not entirely sane.
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
My environment is so influential. Texas is a strange place with incredibly generous, kind, hilarious people ruled by draconian policies. The juxtaposition makes for some interesting storytelling. Beyond that, I have so many mentors, and they each have enriched and influenced my life in meaningful ways.
What inspired you to start writing?
I had a story that I couldn’t let go of. If you’re at all familiar with the Jonathan Maberry world of Joe Ledger, I had the thought it would be funny to drop my fat, snarky ass into the middle of a Very Serious black ops organization and see what happens. I started off with a bit of fan fiction, but quickly wrote away from Maberry’s world and came up with a world of my own. Unlike anything else I’d written, I couldn’t stop with this story until it became a book, now known as The Wimberley Chronicles.
And, once I knew I could write a book, I never stopped.
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
I currently have a day job, so I try to get a little writing first thing in the morning, and then I’ll spend 2-3 hours writing in the evening. I typically type when I’m trying to find the words, then dictate when I’ve go the story on the run.
On the weekends, depending on where I am with the book, I’ve been known to put in long days (like today). That usually looks like a combination of dictating, cleaning up the dictation, then arranging the story elements, with frequent breaks for puppy and wifey cuddles.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
The characters and location come first, then I outline the plot very carefully. Once I start writing, the characters laugh at my plot and take over. At that point I throw out the storyline and just follow where the idiots take me.
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
Want Me, Neve Wilder. How she got that much heat with that much artistry…it boggles the mind.
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Size difference is always so damn hot to me, especially if they’re vers. I like the sense of protection that naturally occurs with a bigger guy–talk about swoon for days. Conversely, having a tiny sass monster to stand up for their gentle giant just makes me happy.
What would be your three desert island books?
Want Me, Pride and Prejudice, and Patient Zero by Jonathan Maberry.
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
Probably Full Contact, since that one was the most fun to write. Toni Mafud (he’s a painter and model, but if we’re dream-casting…) as Omar and Chris Hemsworth as Anders, because I think he could pull off the delightful insanity and his body is insane.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
I really enjoy putting together the marketing materials for my releases. There’s something very relaxing about working with the visual medium. Also, the wifey and I volunteer for the local dachshund rescue and have fostered a total of 31 dogs (with only 2 foster fails!)
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
Clever girl.
Kelly Fox is a queer writer from Texas with a wifey and a variable number of dachshunds. If you want her to wax poetic, ask her about Ann Richards or the Central Texas Hill Country. If you want the truth, one bottle of a good Cabernet or two shots of tequila oughta do the trick. Combining those will not improve your results. She’s been known to dabble in the occasional urban fantasy, but her first love is contemporary gay romance. Watching men fall in love is something she could do all damn day.
For more information on Kelly and her work you can find her on Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, and her website, where you can also sign up for her newsletter. You can also join her Facebook group, The Fox Den, for more news and updates.
Charlie On Instagram [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/184250647_376896420306118_5032023039164371928_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=Hc6Pp4hEsB8AX9nmiFv&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=607033bb994feec6aa3367f3dfcdcdbe&oe=60C16800" />
[image error]13 DAYS UNTIL PROFICIENCY BONUS! " src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/182807136_491521205332531_983245501982717842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=dVD2xByyZHoAX8pEsUn&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=0c169aec0bcdf056603b7c04ca9ea18e&oe=60C05A45" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/180793598_955472235263415_4851128551631797842_n.jpg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=DAKNDF6UlJEAX9vIpmW&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=9ed4b8b451818548f5154681720baaca&oe=60BF7C62" /> 
[image error] 3 WEEKS UNTIL PROFICIENCY BONUS " src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/178179341_1085562681930737_3855232093390541839_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=7CwuOkizWrkAX8k0CaD&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=357318ac65369bcb1ef59f4bf4ec389c&oe=60BF90C9" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: SAXON JAMES 
" src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/179181810_116314903900404_6096353116370847473_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=wUEP7sD5pVMAX_uM_ho&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=20e08b93dcc7f3c5c5f7a2581de5e024&oe=60C0093C" /> [image error] COMING SOON: PROFICIENCY BONUS " src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/178541440_530295565042274_7093211568374578576_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=_3NLbdwUHSAAX9Ir_RA&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=67bf27ebd1d8825799d1819799e654b5&oe=60BF173A" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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April 26, 2021
Author Spotlight: Saxon James
It’s time for more author spotlight goodness and today that comes courtesy of the amazing Saxon James. We talked flexible writing routines, writing books in primary school and why friends to lovers is her go to favourite trope!
Over to you Saxon…
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hey, I’m Saxon James, an author from Aus who’s obsessed with writing queer characters. I have a range of books from YA to adult and they all have one thing in common: swoony, sweet love. I’ve been publishing since Sep 2019, and made the switch to romance in Jan 2020, but I’ve been writing basically my entire life.
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
I’m pretty flexible with routine, purely because with three kiddos, every time I think I’ve got a rhythm sorted out, they laugh and laaaaugh. For each of my books though, I usually have a rough idea of the series and tropes for each book, then I do a rough chapter by chapter framework for the book. Which of course changes approximately seventy-billion times until the characters get what they want.
Describe your books in only three words.
Sweet, fun, and sexy.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
My next release comes out on May 24th and is the third book in my Never Just Friends series. This one is about a total teddy bear, and his awkward and clumsy apprentice. There’s second hand embarrassment, a big size difference, and lots of fun banter.
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
In Case You Missed It which is one of my YA titles. Cystic Fibrosis runs in my family so I wanted to give that representation. It’s easily the most emotional book I’ve written yet.
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
All the authors I interact with are amazing and inspiring. There isn’t one person who’s influenced me, but snippets from everyone I meet. Seeing people enjoy writing and achieving their goals, motivates me to do the same.
What inspired you to start writing?
There wasn’t really an inspiration point, it’s just always something I’ve done. I remember bringing ‘books’ home from primary school that I’d written and my mum had to pretend to be impressed by. Since then, characters keep filling my head and demanding their stories get told.
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
With three kiddies there’s not really a typical day. My methods are to cram as much work into whatever free time I currently have.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
Always the characters. They’re the ones who drive the story so without them it would just be a mess of words.
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
Red, White and Royal Blue
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Friends to lovers (hence my series haha). I love showing the relationship before they get involved. It adds that extra level of sweetness and connection.
What would be your three desert island books?
Deke by Eden Finley, Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston, and Carry On by Rainbow Rowell.
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
Face Offs & Cheap Shots. The competitiveness of the two MCs is one of my favourite things, but I have no idea who I’d cast. Is there anyone cocky enough out there to play Beck?
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
My life is literally family, writing and reading, when I’m not at the day job. I’d say it’s because I’m a boring person, but I kinda like it haha.
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
Mosasaurus. They’re badass.
SAXON JAMES is an author from Aus who’s obsessed with writing queer characters. She has a range of books from YA to adult and they all have one thing in common: swoony, sweet love.
When not writing, Saxon exists on a diet of coffee and chocolate while putting her KU subscription to the test.
For more information on Saxon and her latest releases you can follow her on Facebook, Bookbub, Amazon, Instagram, sign up for her newsletter, and join her Facebook group, Saxon’s Sweethearts, for more news and updates.
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[image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: ZOE LEE " src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/173127626_822359388371910_7484013767316004960_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=wn5ilXiLAwgAX9Z71mK&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=962d292e5a99f6de7ffb55a5d42d7f22&oe=60AF7993" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/172616422_446211036420786_5738697257423265149_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=NiDr2ZBQojsAX-VdgR1&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=e2bac7a7eaaf4b4c882f8db07dd41e88&oe=60ABE50D" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/171349611_125121162924502_5584018757941747292_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=1qHX1U3KKVgAX-U_upR&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=3f19311947edebc9f6bd8cf7cfb6953b&oe=60AE0EBF" /> [image error] PROFICIENCY BONUS: Roll for Love Book 3 - Coming 18th May" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/169271736_453046255953671_8710619562995766174_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=QPQZ8FykaI4AX_kqG9S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=9a29b10fddaab13bc7ae4d30e927b9b8&oe=60AC27BB" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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Amazing Art of Lewis from Proficiency Bonus!
Artist: SoushiyoIf you’ve read Charisma Check you’ll already have met Edward’s long suffering, twinky, pastel jock personal assistant, and the third Roll for Love novel, Proficiency Bonus sees him getting his very own HEA with none other than Jason Lu (yes, that Jason Lu!). I couldn’t resist getting some gorgeous art of him commissioned!
The artist is one of my favourites, the fabulous Soushiyo, who did a stunning job bringing my fabulous twink PA to life. I love the colours he used, and Lewis’s little smirk. If you’ve seen the art of Simon from Screens Apart, Soushiyo did that too!
You can find him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SoushiyoX and I’d highly recommend his sexy webcomic Familiar as well.
Charlie on Instagram [image error] COMING SOON: PROFICIENCY BONUS" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/178541440_530295565042274_7093211568374578576_n.jpg?_nc_cat=107&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=5-7Loxj8UoEAX8VwRSX&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=9f69c0eaab2d92157e7e8f1b2506a6f6&oe=60AB50BA" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/174478596_177516050784585_8424362780711238818_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=xSNRHLqRb2EAX-DXu-S&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=bc5dfd73afe602fc494ee74a8917da75&oe=60AE2298" /> 
[image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: ZOE LEE " src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/173127626_822359388371910_7484013767316004960_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=wn5ilXiLAwgAX8lKFob&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=5a75980db9ee2a53e4bff3631cca73ca&oe=60AB8513" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/172616422_446211036420786_5738697257423265149_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=NiDr2ZBQojsAX_9zXdf&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=0f5b906f623de92c09c367ef6dd7088a&oe=60ABE50D" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/171349611_125121162924502_5584018757941747292_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=1qHX1U3KKVgAX8y40Zt&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=8887dfab637ce369ff743aade4344133&oe=60AE0EBF" /> [image error] PROFICIENCY BONUS: Roll for Love Book 3 - Coming 18th May" src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/169271736_453046255953671_8710619562995766174_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=QPQZ8FykaI4AX_S6PKS&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=0c77c557343bb671dcc42009885af6d0&oe=60AC27BB" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: SKYLER SNOW " src="https://scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/166344044_159677742682998_7929236475840075789_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=TQZwBqUkHesAX_jZPcV&_nc_ht=scontent-iad3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=f841fcdbf9a1988240a1feafc9d178d0&oe=60ADDAC3" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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April 21, 2021
Cover Reveal: Proficiency Bonus
Today I’m delighted to share the amazing cover for Proficiency Bonus, the third and final novel in the Roll for Love series, complete with a gorgeous Jason courtesy of Natasha Snow.
It’s the meet cute, bonding over Pokemon, friends to lovers story that Lewis and Jason deserve, complete with a fight for the perfect ending – which may or may not be me correcting some previous homophobic TV slights – sparklers, and some ridiculous Bear based RPG nonsense (the animal kind of bear rather than the sexy, gay kind).
There’s only a couple more weeks until Proficiency Bonus is released, but you can pre-order now so Jason and Lewis come direct to your Kindle on the 18th May, just check out the link below.
Cover by Natasha SnowProficiency BonusComing 18th May 2021Organising yourself is harder than it looks—Lewis may be a highly proficient PA for two very successful cosplayers, but that means nothing when you’re living at your parent’s house after yet another failed relationship and trying to find some stable ground.
Jason Lu, star of Celestials, is stuck between a rock and a hard place. When the show is cancelled and his character pigeonholed into a homophobic ending, Jason must choose whether to fall in line or break ranks. But one misstep will mean bumping heads with some powerful people.
Teaming up with the very cute guy he met at Comic Con seems like a natural first step and now Lewis and Jason must choose between heartbreak and justice. As they forge ahead, they realise there are no bonuses for navigating life’s challenges, instead they’ll just have to fight for what they believe in.
But sometimes overcoming the biggest hurdles yields the best results.
Proficiency Bonus is a 79,000-word contemporary MM romance featuring plushies, Pokémon, and a fight for the perfect ending. It is book three in the Roll for Love series and can be read as a standalone.
Pre-Order Now Charlie on Instagram
[image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: ZOE LEE " src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/173127626_822359388371910_7484013767316004960_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=XtzvPZwTVkIAX_viPNu&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=0e2eb267d17e88c96b88d07a87114c75&oe=60A79093" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/172616422_446211036420786_5738697257423265149_n.jpg?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=t31XK2JMw2wAX8h3_oV&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=901e7b7fb98e65ed478a36337a9902df&oe=60A7F08D" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/171349611_125121162924502_5584018757941747292_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=B0NGMgRlEeUAX_XTqS3&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=a9929aa6190f28ca5314f30a9173e798&oe=60A625BF" /> [image error] PROFICIENCY BONUS: Roll for Love Book 3 - Coming 18th May" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/169271736_453046255953671_8710619562995766174_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=f9CfKEzFZw4AX9XYyl4&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=dfba8bbeca4b47a914f390216a28f375&oe=60A8333B" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: SKYLER SNOW " src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/166344044_159677742682998_7929236475840075789_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=rZOcaYMlIJsAX_bPX49&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=48547b2354d0ac3cd4cfc1974c499c37&oe=60A5F1C3" /> [image error] " src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/164658645_1767724460062278_5890429303460637322_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=ocHR9lRa7aUAX-IUvpD&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=cc9b29a46a1481a29ca34692ea55a4e8&oe=60A7CD8E" /> 
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April 12, 2021
Author Spotlight: Zoe Lee
For today’s author spotlight, I’m joined by the wonderful Zoe Lee. We chatted going from pantsing to hybrid, bi awakenings, the influence of Tamora Pierce and favourite rereads.
Take it away Zoe..
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hi, I’m Zoe Lee! When I’m not writing LGBT romance, I love watching tons of movies and TV shows and reading a few books a week! I live in Colorado with my husband and daughter, where it’s sunny three hundred days a year.
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
I used to be all emotion and all pantsing when I was writing, letting my characters run the show. But since I started publishing in 2016, I’ve learned how to become a little more hybrid, plotting roughly so I don’t write myself into mazes.
Describe your books in only three words.
Smart, sexy and real.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
My next book is Ex-Rivals, coming out in about a month. It’s the third book in my Local Beats series, another standalone. It’s an enemies to lovers, slow burn, second chance about Camdon and his nemesis Julian who shows back up in Chicago after fifteen years. I’m so excited about this; the original incarnation was the first complete draft I ever finished, when I was 19!
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
I think Hidden Tracks. It’s a MF romance with a bisexual male lead, and the characters have had rich, full lives filled with experiences and music by the time they meet. And after it was done, it was clear it was a natural time to move fully into LGBT romance, which I’ve been writing forever too. Plus, Seth is one of the most intuitive, empathetic characters and everyone should have a best friend or brother or partner like him.
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
There are too many influences to name! When I was growing up, my parents worked for a jeweler and a painter, so I went to so many gallery openings and art museums. I’ve always been inspired by the raw emotion and skill of artists my whole life. Music also influences me, lyrics and rhythms that make me feel, think, and dance. And the power of the friendships I’ve been lucky enough to have since I was a kid, wanting to make that a cornerstone of my fictional worlds.
What inspired you to start writing?
The quick answer is, reading Tamora Pierce when I was in maybe sixth grade. She has complex female protagonists and even though the books were written for kids, they didn’t gloss over problems adults face. I felt her world so deeply, I started writing to inhabit it more and more. From there, I could never stop!
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
My writing process is a mystery to me, honestly. I have a day job and a kid – plus a husband who’s also my best friend, so we love spending time together – so I snatch minutes and hours where I can. I can never quite figure out how I get it done, since I’m not organized with goals or word trackers.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
It’s a toss up if it’s characters or a premise, usually a meet-cute.
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
All of us have things that only we can say, so I could never write someone else’s book. But I’ve definitely read books and been in awe of the author’s imagination or their lyricism, or the hilarious witty banter or how well they write raunchy fun!
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Funny, I was just talking about how I think I could happily write bi awakenings forever! My own was a wonderful mixture of “duh” and exhilaration, and from a writing perspective, how romantic is it to think that meeting your soulmate(s) can be so powerful that it changes or reveals something fundamental about you?
What would be your three desert island books?
I have no idea. I’m terrible at picking. I reread The Captive Prince series about once a year, so if that could count as one, I’d include that. As for picking the other two, I hope I get a lot of advanced warning for going to this desert island because it would take so long!
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
They would all make pretty great movies/TV series, in my oh so humble opinion! Dream casting is so hard though! Especially since I tend to forget how I describe my characters, except for if they have tattoos or long hair, general things like that.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
My definitely not secret passion is watching movies and TV shows – I love almost every genre and I love discussing characters and ships and plot holes.
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
I don’t know much about them, but I like the look of the hypsilophodon in drawings.
ZOE LEE writes contemporary romances and has believed everyone will get extraordinary love stories since even before she fell in love. She lives with her family near the mountains in Colorado, where she writes while listening to music, never drinks coffee, reads books in one sitting, and watches too many movies and tv shows. She’s been writing since she was a kid, but luckily she knows how grown-ups work now. Mostly.
For more information on Zoe and her latest releases you can follow her on Facebook and Instagram, sign up for her newsletter, and join their Facebook group, Zoe’s Romanceland, for more updates.
Charlie On Instagram [image error]" src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/171349611_125121162924502_5584018757941747292_n.jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=-TYMorv4ohsAX9dsdUG&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=2a16d283f206dbe5e3e7c098241e4339&oe=609A483F" /> [image error] PROFICIENCY BONUS: Roll for Love Book 3 - Coming 18th May" src="https://scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/169271736_453046255953671_8710619562995766174_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=lxxI11nOLsoAX9TVBRC&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=a293798059150f538c52e54aa85e6107&oe=609C55BB" /> [image error] NEW AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT: SKYLER SNOW" src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/166344044_159677742682998_7929236475840075789_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=3vjdZk3obPMAX9W1wIP&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=8dc9cae231de12cc7dfc11c1c91bf0bb&oe=609A1443" /> [image error] " src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/164658645_1767724460062278_5890429303460637322_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=5twKncV9PRUAX_yMV5y&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=4ad52c38bb7ff8cc1feef6dffd601463&oe=609BF00E" /> 
[image error] New Author Spotlight A.F. Zoelle 
" src="https://scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/161322086_2598263617137543_3453696023407529477_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=q_u1n6ZCRaQAX95p3E5&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=9e6740f7b6e938dd35fe91a83a091a32&oe=609CBE8E" /> [image error] Just need to add the floral border! " src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/159260693_447806009663011_4056040688780807835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=iBE6AnIFuk8AX-wimMD&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=05a5d47bf0296cf01c70280145851409&oe=6099B1A9" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/157514991_146432534007681_4974370775393813929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=z8rXrTvO-T0AX9i8DjP&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=dbb49f76cf826f4a57136d518a413a4c&oe=609C2292" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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March 29, 2021
Author Spotlight: Skyler Snow
For today’s author spotlight, I’m very excited to have the wonderful Skyler Snow here with me. We’re chatting about their upcoming release, a love of Stephen King and exploring people and what makes them tick.
Over to you Skyler…
First things first, please introduce yourself!
Hi, I’m Skyler! Currently I live in sunny Arizona (I love the mountains!) with my kiddos and our two crazy cats Midnight and Emily. I have a love of really wholesome romance movies, cooking, and true crime shows.
Tell us a little bit about your writing style.
My writing style is best described as…chaotic. Lol. I tend to switch between styles depending on the genre. Drama, angst, a smart mouthed character, those are definitely trademarks of the way I write.
Describe your books in only three words.
That’s a hard one. Hmm I’d have to say sweet, humorous, kinky.
What’s your next book about and when is it coming out?
My next book is called Beautiful Boy and it comes out April 15th. It’s the next book in my Atlanta Daddies series with a gorgeous stripper boy and his straight (okay not so straight) bodyguard who’s acting as his caregiver. I really love Aaron and Red’s sweet dynamic and the real life issues that take place in this series. They’re all fluffy Daddy books, but not everything can be perfect and sweet in life, you know?
Out of all your books, which one are you most proud of?
Broken Boy for sure. As lovely as Daddy books are I think they look over real life predators in the community. There was so much more I wanted to go into in this book, but it was getting really long and I had to reign it in lol. I love the idea that pain and healing can be helped with friends and that love isn’t a magic fix all, but it can be a comfort.
What or who (or both) has influenced you most as a writer?
The thing that influences me most is kink to be honest. Why? It’s such a great way to explore people and the things that can help them tick. Being in the BDSM community helped me learn so much about myself so I try to have that in my books. I’m also influenced by Hallmark movies and all the angsty books/shows/movies that I love to consume.
What inspired you to start writing?
I wanted to be a chef, but that didn’t work out. Lol. So, I started being a ghostwriter to help out a friend and make a little money. I quickly learned that I LOVED writing. Creating stories and worlds out of nothing? And people liked those stories? It was what I needed after years of ghosting to take the leap and create for myself. And I’m so glad that I did. To be fair, I wrote my first story when I was seven or eight and used to participate in NaNoWriMo every year. I’ve always loved bringing characters and stories to life.
What’s your writing process like? Do you have a typical “writing day”?
My writing days are all over lol. I’m chaotic. I usually try to write when my kiddos are asleep and the world has slowed down and is relatively quiet. Most nights I just sit right down, turn on a show I’ve seen a thousand times or a horror movie and get working! When my brain fizzles, I take a break or quit for the night. I just try to make it a habit to write every single day.
What comes first for you – the plot or the characters?
Both. Sometimes a great plot pops into my head and I have to create the characters and they’ll change throughout the story. Other times I’ll have a great character I want to use and I’ll build the plot around them.
What’s a book that you wish you’d written?
It’s not romance, but anything by Stephen King. Lol. He’s my favorite author in the world and his Dark Tower series is still dear to my heart. In fact it’s time for a re-read.
If you could only write one trope for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Age gap. It’s one that tends to show up in ALL of my books and I just really love to explore the age difference of couples. Their differences or how sometimes they need that age gap for some reason or another. Maybe the older one needs to loosen up and the younger one needs a stable influence. I love exploring those themes.
What would be your three desert island books?
Stardust, The Dark Tower, Insomnia.
If one of your books could be made into a movie/TV series, which would you choose and who would you cast?
I would love to see my Broken Boy series made into a movie honestly. As for actors? I’m not great with names and actors, but I think for Layne I would cast Cole Sprouse. He has such an innocent look and his acting is really great. For Branson I would love Brock O’Hurn. He’s HUGE and that hair! Swoon~
What do you like to do when you’re not writing? Do you have a secret passion or hobby that we don’t know about?
When I’m not writing I’m a big gamer. I love to just sit back and settle into Skyrim or a relaxing farming game. I have a lot of interests and hobbies. I just wish I had more time!
Finally, what’s your favourite dinosaur?
Velociraptor! Solely because of the original Jurassic Park where they were all feral and bitey. I have no idea why!
SKYLER SNOW is the author of kinky, steamy MM books. Whether contemporary or paranormal you’ll always find angst, kink and a love that conquers all.
Skyler started off writing from a young age. When faced with the choice chef or author, author won hands down. They’re big into musicals, true crime shows, reality TV madness and good books whether light and fluffy or dark and twisted. When they’re not writing you can find them playing roleplaying games and hanging out with their kids.
You can find more information about Skyler on their website, where you can also sign up for their newsletter, follow them on Bookbub, and join their Facebook group, Snow’s Angels for more updates.
Charlie On Instagram [image error] " src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/164658645_1767724460062278_5890429303460637322_n.jpg?_nc_cat=101&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=QTn3JCFZu6sAX-278u9&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=f55efcbce510cd533a98bcd050961d84&oe=6088298E" />
[image error] New Author Spotlight A.F. Zoelle " src="https://scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/161322086_2598263617137543_3453696023407529477_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=BcDEWjDHTMcAX8xwb9U&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=a3a738c69547b4e842449716278850e8&oe=6088F80E" /> [image error] Just need to add the floral border! " src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/159260693_447806009663011_4056040688780807835_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=8uO-VFN6WfYAX_KZpKg&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=6866cfaa6c5a85feec82269668073317&oe=6089DFA9" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/157514991_146432534007681_4974370775393813929_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=K4_AWUb2LFsAX8RcEjE&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=4da64d0faa9aaade51ffddd268015ffd&oe=60885C12" /> [image error] " src="https://scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/157666703_126228876092472_5417528727388430675_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=x6gWTAY_hzUAX-_gqgT&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=6599568c05a1619270ffe3fbebddc2ef&oe=6086F7E4" /> 
[image error] New Author Spotlight: @colettedavison " src="https://scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/156923596_706720086667377_1227514650108340026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=wcUz_rHxeRMAX-58P3O&_nc_ht=scontent-lax3-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=454827e22ad4f10c6dada53f531871a9&oe=60887EA5" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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March 25, 2021
Off the Pitch: The Complete Collection is LIVE!
I’m very happy to announce that both Off the Pitch: The Complete Collection and The Off the Pitch Short Collection are now live in Kindle and KU! *fires confetti canon*
I loved revisiting these books and writing a new final epilogue for these characters — this was my very first series and I these men hold a very special place in my heart.
In the Complete Collection you’ll find all three original novels plus four bonus shorts and things like a second chance romance between former teen sweethearts, all the first times, friends to lovers, forced proximity, slow burn, hookups to lovers, steamy scenes, sexting and friends who’d do anything for each other.
And until 1st April you’ll be able to get the boxset for just $4.99.
Cover by Natasha SnowFollow the men of London’s Greenwich Athletic Football Club as they navigate heartache on and off the pitch and find their happily ever afters.
This box set features all three original novels, plus four short stories, including the brand new short, Full Time .
Breakaway — Christian King’s life revolves around a single goal: to be the best. But his life is thrown into disarray when he runs into his former best friend and first love, David. As the pair are drawn back together, Christian is forced to confront his deepest insecurities, but maybe a second chance at true love is worth it.
Extra Time — Isolated and drifting, footballer Hugo Serin doesn’t know what comes next after a painful leg break puts him out of action. When a chance encounter brings him face to face with lonely, eccentric artist, Kit, the clouds might just be lifting. Now Hugo must convince Kit he’s worthy of love just the way he is.
Final Score — Jordan Green is too busy for a relationship, but that doesn’t stop him from fooling around with handsome playboy Félix. Neither of them want commitment, but their connection is too strong to resist. All they have to do is put their hearts on the line, but that will mean confronting their fears first.
—–
This box set also includes the following four short stories.
Hat Trick — David plans a surprise to celebrate Christian’s match-day success.
Silverware — Kit and Hugo celebrate Valentine’s Day.
International Break — Jordan and Félix enjoy a well-deserved holiday together.
Full Time — A catch-up with everyone as they enjoy a memorable celebration eight years later.
Each Off the Pitch book can be read as a standalone and has a happily-ever-after ending, but you’ll enjoy them more as part of the whole series. This low-angst series promises sports stars, sweetness, and steam, and is approximately 257,000 words.
Buy Now Already own the novels? Get just the short stories
What happens after the final whistle?
The Off the Pitch short story collection brings together three previously published shorts from Charlie Novak’s Greenwich Athletic world, along with a brand new finale for all the couples.
Includes: Hat Trick, Silverware, International Break and Full Time.
Charlie On Instagram
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[image error] New Author Spotlight: @colettedavison " src="https://scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/156923596_706720086667377_1227514650108340026_n.jpg?_nc_cat=103&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=Nc8-qZIRTAgAX-rinTG&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-1.cdninstagram.com&oh=464740652fad1171ba36253d00e365b3&oe=608095A5" /> [image error]" src="https://scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com/v/t51.29350-15/154466922_4088678041223843_808154852971792715_n.jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=8ae9d6&_nc_ohc=v5f0B0v5QGwAX9dt6g3&_nc_ht=scontent-dfw5-2.cdninstagram.com&oh=112c096af5187ac415df6815e11b0823&oe=608258E4" /> Join Charlie’s Reader Group
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