Mickie B. Ashling's Blog, page 154

Momentos Reviewed

Momentos and the entire Basque Trilogy was reviewed by Amos Lassen. It was a lovely birthday present from an old friend. Amos was the first "official" reviewer who noticed my writing when Horizons was released in 2009. I couldn't post any sooner due to the problems we were having on LJ.

Here's the link: http://reviewsbyamoslassen.com/?p=7438#comment-1466

Momentos Reviewed!

I received a lovely birthday present from Amos Lassen today. He reviewed Momentos, the final novel in the Basque Trilogy. Read it here:

http://reviewsbyamoslassen.com/?p=7438#comment-1466

Book Recs

Today is a two-book rec day. I like stories that push bounderies. These novels certainly pushed mine in a good way.

A Dish Served Cold by Andrew Ashling

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



There is one upside to almost getting raped. It proves that you're at least desirable to someone. Maybe Andrew Ashton is just a little bit too rational for his own good. Not however where it concerns his best friend Sean Denham, scion of a political dynasty, and like him from a privileged background. There's only one problem: Sean is straight. Of course he is.

Being born into money was up until now one of the smartest moves Andrew Nathaniel Ashton VII ever made. It keeps him free from worries about his future, earning a living and more of those trivialities, so he can dedicate himself to the really important things in life. Like getting laid.

In his society indentured servitude, commonly known as slavery, has been reintroduced for several, but mainly economical reasons. It doesn't bother him all that much. Slaves are kept on large farming corporations, in factories, in the backside of stores and such. Out of sight.

Andrew knows slavery exists, and he doesn't approve, but on the other hand, it is not as if he made the system what it is, is it? Yes, there was this one time when it touched him personally, but what could he do about it? It is not as if slavery is ever going to become a personal issue, is it?

Andrew thinks the future, all in all, looks bright and carefree. He thinks he is about to find true love. He thinks he is safe.

He is wrong.

I've read all the other reviews of this book and I have to agree that A Dish Served Cold is not an easy read, however, I couldn't put it down! The author's world of slavery and corruption is disturbing on so many levels, but the shock of every vivid scenario is tempered by the redeeming qualities of the narrator. I liked Andrew Ashton. He started out a spoiled brat until the cushy world he knew began to disintegrate around him. The way he handled all the horror thrown in his path made everything a lot more palatable. That's not to say that some of his choices were unconventional and self-serving, but I think he did the best he could given the circumstances. I like the way the author wrapped up the story with a clear picture of the future. It was very satisfying to me as a reader. I still can't get this story out of my head and it's been weeks since I've read it. Any book that can create this kind of an impact deserves a five star as far as I'm concerned. Fair warning. This novel is not for everyone and some scenes are extremely violent and graphic, but it's thought provoking and held my interest throughout.





Yakuza Pride by H.J. Brues

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



When yakuza underboss Shigure Matsunaga meets Kenneth Harris at a boring social event, he's surprised to find himself attracted to the blond gaijin with the mismatched eyes. Shigure is even more pleased when he discovers Ken not only speaks Japanese fluently, but is fluent in Japan's ways, even the more violent of the martial arts. Ken's expertise at kendo is not his most striking quality-it's the passion beneath his quiet, almost fragile exterior that ignites Shigure's lust, and the two come together as explosively as they spar.

Shigure is a dangerous man in a dangerous position. He's been trying to keep the peace with the Daito-kai-Shigure's hated rivals-but the danger on the streets is escalating, threatening those Shigure most wants to protect. He may claim to love his gaijin, but before he can keep Ken safe, Shigure will have to overcome hostility from his people, a hidden enemy, and, the most insidious opponent of all, his own hard-won pride.

I was attracted to this book by the stunning cover and the great review it received on the Jessewave site. Yakuza Pride lived up to all the hype, in my opinion. I was completely caught up in this unconventional pairing between a fierce Yakuza and an equally feisty Caucasian with a Samurai's heart. It was satisfying on so many levels. There were some violent aspects that were a little cringe worthy, but nothing that wasn't overcome by the overall romance. Highly recommended.

What Inspires A Story

Loving Edits, Tono, and Momentos were inspired by my mother and her battle with ALS. About two years ago, I decided I was ready to tackle this painful subject, and I created a story that celebrated the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. That my muse chose to make this a ménage raised a question or two, but I'm an m/m writer after all, and my mother would have been delighted to take the starring role in this threesome.

I wanted to share some photos of the places I've talked...

Momentos: Mick's Journey

Presenting the book trailer for Momentos which was made by the very talented and generous qafmaniac aka Marita. Thank you Tita--you are the best!



The winners to yesterday's drawing were Linda, Liria, and Elaine. Thanks so much for dropping by and commenting on my post. Please pm your addy to claim your prize.

Momentos is now available in eBook and Paperback format here:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/products_new.php?osCsid=n96p584n0mh6l8acfimu0k1cv1

Party!

This photo of San Sebastian - Donostia is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Join me on a virtual trip throughout the Basque country tomorrow morning to celebrate the book release of Momentos: Mick's Journey.. Anyone who leaves a comment will be entered into the drawing for a free e-book or a signed paperback. I'll be posting a pictorial, excerpts, and unveiling the book trailer. 3 winners will be chosen at the end of the day. The party starts at 9:00 AM central time. The link to the DSP blog is right here:

http://dreamspinnerpress.com/blog/


This photo of San Sebastian - Donostia is courtesy of TripAdvisor

Momentos: Mick's Journey is the third and final book in the Basque trilogy. Take a walk with Mick as he recounts the early years with Paul and Tono. Follow the events leading up to the emotional night of the awards ceremony in San Sebastian and the month that followed.

Contest!

Before Mick Henley brought Paul Alcott and Tono Garat together in Loving Edits, it was simply Mick and Paul, two optimistic teenagers who began a love affair that would span twelve years--and leave an indelible mark in their lives.

The passionate young lovers shared a series of firsts before Paul's harsh father drove a wedge between them, shattering their dreams and destroying everything that Mick believed to be true about love. After Paul's defection, Mick met Tono, a closeted Spanish athlete, who helped heal his broken heart.

From passionate highs to heartbreaking lows, Mick inspires the two most important men in his life, and brings them together with his impending death. They'll learn that all their memories, even the most difficult to bear, are precious, and that love is the most amazing journey of all.

Read on for an excerpt and several chances to win a free copy.


Hi all. As promised, you will have a few more chances to win a copy of Momentos. I'm having a book release party on Sunday, July 17 over at the DSP blog. Stop by at anytime during the day to read a few excerpts and find out what inspired my Basque trilogy. Anyone who leaves a comment will be eligible for the drawing at the end of the day. This is the direct link to the blog. I go live on Sunday at 9:00AM Central time. http://dreamspinnerpress.com/blog/ I'll post another reminder on Saturday.

Also, my generous friend, Chris, (better known as Chaos' mom) is having a contest over at her blog here: http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/ Leave a comment and you are automatically entered.

This is from a scene in Chapter 2. Mick and Paul are getting to know each other after having just met that morning. Mick is the speaker and he's interviewing Paul for the school paper. They are in Paul's bedroom.


"Let's change the subject," I said, feeling sorry for him suddenly. I threw myself on Paul's bed and crossed my arms underneath my head. "Are you a virgin?"

Paul's eyebrows almost hit his hairline when he looked at me in shock. "It's really none of your business."

"I suppose not, but I'm being nosy again. I'm a technical virgin, if you want to know."

"What the hell is that?"

I sat up, hugging the pillow to my chest. "I've done everything but fuck."

"Why?"

"I haven't found the right person."

"I'm sure there must be a hundred cheerleaders waiting in line."

"Who's talking about girls?"

"What?"

"I'm gay," I said easily. "Is that a problem?" Now would be the time to freak and throw me out.

"Why are you telling me?"

Although his voice was steady, Paul's fair skin lent itself to blushing, and right now his cheeks were blood red. "Don't sweat it," I said, trying to put him at ease. He looked like he was about to faint. "I thought I should get the disclosure out of the way."

"Okay," Paul exhaled. "Is there something about me that gave you the wrong impression?"

Someone knocked on the door, rescuing me. I was never happier to see anyone in my life. I realized, way too late, that I should have kept my mouth shut. I'd made a friend in a brand new school and didn't want to blow it before it even got off the ground. Paul seemed like a nice guy, and if he wasn't into me, that was cool. I wouldn't mind having him as a buddy.

The pizza smelled heavenly and I lunged, almost knocking it off the tray that the butler balanced precariously. I swiped a piece, grabbed a paper napkin, and took a huge bite. "Damn, that's good," I garbled through a mouthful of steaming hot, cheesy crust. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Baxter replied stiffly. He probably wasn't used to such enthusiasm over food. Part of it was my nerves. I was sure Paul would ask me to leave any minute now.

"Is there anything else you need, Paul?"

"No, we're good."

"Very well."

"Why does he call you, Paul?" I asked, as soon as the door closed. "Shouldn't he be saying your highness or some other crap, seeing as how he's your butler?"

"Baxter's been around since I was six years old. He's practically my mother."

"Mine's much prettier," I joked, "but he seems like a nice guy."

"He is a nice guy. Way cooler than my dad and always there for me."

"Then you're lucky," I said, wiping the grease off my hands and mouth. "Now, answer my question."

"What question?" Paul evaded.

"Are you a virgin?"

"I …guess I am," he stuttered.

"You guess?"

"I am."

"How come?"

"What?"

"How come you haven't slept with anyone yet? You've got it all, dude, the looks, the car, the money. I would think they'd be tripping all over themselves to climb into your bed."

"I haven't found the right person either."

"Do you date?"

"Of course I date!" Paul huffed indignantly.

"What's her name?"

"Who?"

"Earth to Paul…you sure are spacey."

"Jesus, Mick. This was supposed to be a relaxed interview, not a fucking cross-examination. What are you, a cop?"

I busted out laughing. "I guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

"Now what are you talking about?" Paul asked.

"My dad's a detective."

"I thought he was a big pothead?"

"He was. Now he's a cop who smokes pot recreationally like other men drink. He's not a junkie, Paul."

"We should be grateful," Paul deadpanned.

"Are you always this serious?"

"No…but I'm not hyper like you."

"Spontaneous is the word I like to use."

"Whatever, man. I think I'll have a slice of pizza before you demolish the entire thing," Paul said, reaching for his share of the rapidly diminishing pie. His arm brushed against my chest and he pulled it back instantly. "Sorry about that."

I looked into his eyes and could see the panic. Whatever was going on in his head was starting to show through his increasing sarcasm but I was determined to set him at ease. "Don't worry, Paul, I'm not going to seduce you. Just because I'm gay doesn't mean I'm a sex maniac. I can control my urges. And yeah, you're hot and all, but I would never force you to do anything that goes against your nature."

"Why are you so defensive?" Paul asked, and then blushed even more as he realized what I'd said. "I'm hot?"

"Yeah, you are," I said softly, "but that's neither here nor there. I'm tired of guys who feel like they have to wear a chastity belt around me when I announce I'm gay. If I were straight, you wouldn't have thought twice about brushing up against my chest."

"I'm sorry," Paul apologized.

"Don't you know anyone who's gay?"

"No."

"I can guarantee you I'm not the only one in our high school who's into guys. The others just aren't honest about it."

"Do you have a boyfriend?" Paul asked, using the word tentatively.

"I'm working on it," I smiled. "Are you offering?"

Paul shook his head vehemently.

"Too bad," I said. "There's something about you that I find very attractive."

"Do you think I'm gay?"

"Are you?" I stood, stepping over the makeshift picnic on the floor, and walked toward Paul who'd also stood up but was backing away from me.

"Don't come closer," he warned.

"I'm not going to hurt you, Paul."

"Am I radiating some kind of signal?"

"Should you be?" I was encouraged that Paul was talking, instead of pushing me away angrily. If he were straight, he would have hit me by now or thrown me out. I got closer, licking my lips and practically devouring him with my intense gaze. "Have you ever had fantasies about men?" I asked gently. "You can tell me, Paul."

Paul stepped back and gasped when he hit the wall. His eyes rounded in surprise, and his cheeks were no longer red; they were pale and beads of sweat dotted his upper lip. I was sure he was going to faint, so I reached out and touched his arm lightly. "Forget about my question. It was out of line."

"No," Paul shook his head and took a huge breath. "The truth is," he confessed, "I've had…thoughts."

"Man on man thoughts?" I knew it!

"Stay away," Paul begged, pushing lightly against my chest.

"Do I scare you?" I lowered my voice but never moved from my spot. I was close enough to smell his fear and see the veins pulsing at his temple as he clenched his jaw. I could have kissed him easily but I knew he'd bolt.

"A little," Paul whispered.

"Is it me, or is it the entire concept of being gay that's freaking you out?"

"Both," Paul admitted, "I've never acted on my feelings."

"There's always a first time."

"Wait," Paul said as my face dipped toward his. He didn't push me away though, he closed his eyes instead

Giveaway!

Hi all. Here's a chance to win a signed paperback copy of my latest release, Momentos: Mick's Journey by following the links below. This is the last novel in the Basque series and will release on Monday, July 18. Throw your name in the hat for a freebie. I know we're all about e-readers these days but this beautiful cover by Reese Dante is worth seeing on paper.






Goodreads Book Giveaway













Momentos




by Mickie B. Ashling

Giveaway ends July 18, 2011.

See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.

Enter to win

Book Rec!

Between Sinners and Saints by Marie Sexton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



Levi Binder is a Miami bartender who cares about only two things: sex and surfing. Ostracized by his Mormon family for his homosexuality, Levi is determined to live his life his own way, but everything changes when he meets massage therapist Jaime Marshall.

Jaime is used to being alone. Haunted by the horrors of his past, his only friend is his faithful dog, Dolly. He has no idea how to handle somebody as gorgeous and vibrant as Levi.

Complete opposites on the surface, Levi and Jaime both long for something that they can only find together. Through love and the therapeutic power of touch, they'll find a way to heal each other, and they'll learn to live as sinners in a family of saints.

Much has been said about the religious aspect of this novel and I expected to be immersed in biblical quotes and dogma. I should have known better. Marie Sexton has created a wonderful story of love and redemption between two men who were destined to find each other. Religion played a huge role in Levi's upbringing, giving him the core values that he needed to save Jaime, who was still trapped in his abusive past. Despite Levi's every effort to turn into a badass, because his family rejected his orientation, he had a golden heart, and it shone brightly throughout this story. I love the way Marie explored every aspect of Jaime's pain and Levi's stoic patience as they worked through a multitude of issues. It was realistic, and heart breaking, and I never felt that she was rushing to find the instant fix. I cried along with the characters and felt a huge sense of satisfaction when Jaime finally dared to take a chance. Highly recommended!

New Release!

Before Mick Henley brought Paul Alcott and Tono Garat together in Loving Edits, it was simply Mick and Paul, two optimistic teenagers who began a love affair that would span twelve years—and leave an indelible mark in their lives.

The passionate young lovers shared a series of firsts before Paul's harsh father drove a wedge between them, shattering their dreams and destroying everything Mick believed to be true about love. After Paul's defection, Mick met Tono, a closeted Spanish athlete, who helped heal his broken heart.

From passionate highs to heartbreaking lows, Mick inspires the two most important men in his life and brings them together with his impending death. They'll learn that all their memories, even the most difficult to bear, are precious and that love is the most amazing journey of all.

Momentos: Mick's Journey is the final novel in the Basque trilogy and will release on July 17. I'll be posting excerpts and hosting a drawing for a free copy as we get closer to the date. Cover art by the amazing Reese Dante.