Andrew Grey's Blog, page 46
July 13, 2011
Great Review for Positive Resistance
Whipped Cream Reviews gave Positive Resistance a wonderful review. Coreopsis said:
The characters in this story are very believable and the content even more so. Most people have dealt with tormentors, family drama, and fear of letting someone into their heart and that puts this story on a more realistic level that people can identify with. After reading this story it had me wondering, what I would do? How would I react if put in that situation? The health condition Steven has is something I have never had to deal with but after reading this book it definitely opened my eyes to what people like Steven have to go through both mentally and physically.
I completely recommend this book, even if you’re not a fan of M/M romances Positive Resistance is worth the read.
Read the entire review: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/2011/07/positive-resistance-by-andrew-grey.html
Dutch Treat - Releasing Thursday Night at Midnight!!!!
I'm so excited I can barely stand it, Dutch Treat is releasing tomorrow night at midnight Eastern US Time. This story is probably one of my most autobiographical. A number of years ago I was assigned a project at work that required me to live in Europe for five months. My partner had to work, so he was not able to come with me. I did a number of fun things, but it was hard being away from family, friends, as well as my partner. I will say that I learned alot and unlike in Dutch Treat, I did not capture the romantic attention of a dark, handsome European.
Purchase from Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2412
Blurb: When Michael accepts a company assignment overseas, he doesn't count on being dumped by his boyfriend on the way to the airport. The breakup is a bad omen--Michael's time in Europe would be one long misery of loneliness and corporate backbiting if it weren’t for his friendship with his coworker, Stephan.
When he finds out Stephan wants more than friendship, Michael is torn. Even if he chooses to risk his one bright relationship in Europe for a chance at love, when this project is over, isn't his only choice to say goodbye?
July 9, 2011
Sneak peek preview of Dutch Treat
Blurb:
When Michael accepts a company assignment overseas, he doesn't count on being dumped by his
boyfriend on the way to the airport. The breakup is a bad omen--Michael's time
in Europe would be one long misery of loneliness and corporate backbiting if it
weren’t for his friendship with his coworker, Stephan.
When he finds out Stephan wants more than friendship, Michael is torn. Even if
he chooses to risk his one bright relationship in Europe for a chance at love,
when this project is over, isn't his only choice to say goodbye?
Add to your Dreamspinner Wish List http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2412
Excerpt:
“Is this your first visit to the Netherlands?” Johan asked.
Both Hans and Johan appeared older than Michael, but both men were handsome.
They had trim bodies and slightly graying dark hair, and eyes that looked at
one another the way Michael hoped someone would one day look at him.
“This is my first visit to Europe,” Michael answered,
pulling himself out of his examination of the handsome men. “I’m here for
almost six months working on a project, and Stephan asked if I’d like to come
along today.” He couldn’t help glancing at his host. “I haven’t seen anything
yet.” Michael tried to keep the excitement out of his voice, not wanting to
appear like some wide-eyed kid, but he doubted he was very successful.
“It is funny,” Hans observed from where he sat across from
Michael, “but we’d never come to Bruges or most any place else if it wasn’t for
visitors. We went to the South of France a few years ago to relax on the beach, and we’ve been to Tenerife and
Malta, but otherwise we stay close to home.” Johan leaned close to Hans, saying
something in his lover’s ear. Hans smiled before nudging Johan with his
shoulder. “Bruges is a wonderful place to fall in love,” Hans said, looking at
both Stephan and Michael.
“For goodness’ sake,” Stephan said softly before turning to
Michael. “Hans has been trying to, uh, fix me up, for a while now.” The
conversation continued, and Michael found himself staring out the window for a
while, watching as the scenery steadily passed by the windows. Cities gave way
to towns and farms and then turned back into city as they approached Rotterdam.
They had to change trains and soon they were off again. “We’re about to cross
into Belgium,” Stephan explained, and a short time later, they stopped to
change engines and then they were on their way.
Everyone continued talking as they continued on, once again
changing trains in Antwerp for a smaller train that wound through the Belgian
countryside. “Things are different in Belgium,” Stephan explained. “The country
is larger and has fewer people, so it’s wilder, more natural, I guess.” They
passed through some small towns, and Michael noticed that Peter was equally
enthralled by the scenery. The other guys let them marvel at what passed the
windows.
“Bruges is coming up soon,” Hans explained as the train
pulled away from a stop. “We should get ready to exit.” They gathered their
things, not that there was much, and when the train stopped, they all got off
and wandered through the old train station toward the exit. As soon as they got
outside, Michael wished he’d brought a heavier jacket. The sun was shining, but
the breeze was cool and went through his clothes. “The town center is this
direction, and we’ll have to walk a short way,” Hans instructed.
“We should stop for lunch first,” Johan commented from the
back of the group, and Hans laughed, saying something about his partner always
being hungry.
Michael did his best to keep up with the group, but every
time they turned a corner he saw something he’d never seen before: cathedrals,
stores in buildings that looked like they had been there forever, and when they
came to the square, Michael stopped in his tracks, looking all around him at
the decorated buildings. “Michael, are you all right?” Stephan asked when he
stopped for what had to be the millionth time.
“I’m fine. I just want to see everything.”
“You will, I promise. We’re going to have lunch, and then
I’ll take you all around, and we can take a boat tour of the canals.” Michael
nodded and shivered slightly when the wind blew through the square. “Are you
cold?” Stephan asked, and without waiting, he opened the backpack he’d been
carrying and pulled out a sweatshirt. “You can wear this if you want,” Stephan
told him.
“Won’t you need it?” Michael asked, not wanting Stephan to
be cold because he’d given him his sweatshirt.
“Probably not. This is perfect outdoor weather,” Stephan
replied, handing Michael the sweatshirt. Michael pulled it over his head,
grateful for the warmth and Stephan’s thoughtfulness.
“Would everyone like to sit outside?” Johan asked, walking
toward a restaurant on the square. They all agreed. Johan spoke with the maître
d’, and they were seated immediately at a table right on the square under an
awning. Menus were presented, and Michael was relieved to see they were in both
Dutch and English, although he forgot about it completely as he watched
horse-drawn carriages pass and heard bells ringing the hour across the square.
“Michael,” Stephan said quietly from next to him, “do you
know what you want?”
Michael had no idea, but took a stab and ordered the
schnitzel when it was his turn to order. Food began to appear, and the
conversation turned to the day’s activities. Peter wanted to go shopping, so
after lunch Hans and Johan were going to take Peter walking down the shopping
streets. Michael wanted to see things, so he and Stephan were going off on
their own.
The food arrived, and Michael took a tentative bite before
eating with relish. “It is good, yes?” Stephan asked with a smile.
Michael put down his fork, swallowing before answering, “It’s
wonderful. I think I found a new favorite food.” They all chuckled lightly and
continued eating and talking. When they were finished, they paid the bill and
left the table, agreeing to meet back at the restaurant later that afternoon.
“Come,” Stephan told him., “I have something very special to
show you.” Stephan had already begun walking, and Michael followed him out of
the square and along a busy street to a huge church. “This cathedral is very
important,” Stephan told him and walked toward the entrance. Michael paid the
small entrance fee, and they stepped inside the massive building and toward an
altar where people seemed to be congregating, snapping pictures. “That small
Madonna and child,” Stephan explained, and Michael nodded, “is the only work by
Michelangelo outside Italy.”
Michael gaped open-mouthed at the small marble sculpture. He
could only get so close, but even from the distance everyone was required to
stay back, he could see amazing details in the small work. “I heard about
things like this, but never expected to actually see them.” He’d seen pictures
in books of famous artworks, but to get to see one for real was amazing. “Is
there more?”
“There’s lots more,” Stephan assured him as they moved away
and wandered through the church, with its massive altars and large sculptures
of saints, centuries old. “Do you like it?”
“Yes,” Michael answered, his head craned back looking up
toward the ceiling towering overhead. “It’s beautiful.”
July 8, 2011
Great Review for Seven Days
Seven Days got 5 Angels friom Fallen Angel Reviews. Theresa said:
Mr. Grey has written a beautiful story about how one act of kindness can change someone's life forever. Evan's life was terrible after his parents died and he couldn't believe that Father Valentin didn't want anything from him from him, because that is what he learned living on the street. The love and friendship he found at St. Bartholomew's school gave him back the family he lost, but in Clay he learned that anything is possible if you just believe in yourself. Clay's love and support allowed him to fight for a better future. I loved how the school accepted boys who needed help giving them a chance at life and if people acted in kindness like St. Bartholomew's Academy the world would be a better place. Thanks go to Mr. Grey for an inspiring book.
Read the entire review:
July 2, 2011
Positive Resistance - On Sale
Here's a link: http://www.rainbowebooks.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4429
June 30, 2011
It's Raining Men Blog Post
I posted a special tribute to every author's friend, the beta reader, today at It's Raining Men. Here's a link.
June 25, 2011
Dutch Treat - Excerpt
Blurb:When Michael accepts a company assignment overseas, he doesn't count on being dumped by his boyfriend on the way to the airport. The breakup is a bad omen--Michael's time in Europe would be one long misery of loneliness and corporate backbiting if it weren’t for his friendship with his coworker, Stephan.
When he finds out Stephan wants more than friendship, Michael is torn. Even if he chooses to risk his one bright relationship in Europe for a chance at love, when this project is over, isn't his only choice to say goodbye?
Add to your Dreamspinner Press Wish List
Excerpt:
“I think you’ll want to get that coffee now. Curtis called a management meeting for eight thirty, and you know how he is,” Kyle said after making sure the hallway was empty. Michael knew exactly how he was, even after having worked for the man only a few months. Curtis’s changing moods were well-engrained upon everyone who worked for him. Michael had often thought the man needed a good dose of mood stabilizers, but couldn’t say that to anyone.
“Thanks for the warning.” Michael opened his e-mail and saw the messages from Curtis sitting in his inbox like terrorist pipe bombs just waiting to ruin a perfectly good Friday. Ignoring them for now, Michael got up and accompanied Kyle down to the cafeteria, returning a few minutes later, coffee in hand, to go through his e-mails and prepare for his day and the infamous meeting.
At the appointed time, Michael got up from his desk and hurried to the conference room, finding the other managers already there and Curtis sitting at the head of the table, looking toward the door. Michael glanced at the clock just to make sure he wasn’t late before closing the door and taking one of the empty chairs. Curtis had a real thing about being on time for meetings and appointments, even though the one person on the team most likely to be late for anything was Curtis himself. Every week, Curtis had a set time to meet with each of his managers, and more likely than not, Michael would be kept waiting for his appointment. But heaven forbid, the world would end if he were a minute late for anything Curtis scheduled.
“We’ve been tasked with taking on an extra project because of the shuffles with the logistics team. They lost one of their project managers, and since our team still has two,” Curtis said, as he turned to Kyle and Michael with one of his self-righteous “I fought for you, so you owe me” looks on his face, “I’ll be reassigning the projects this morning, and things will need to change. Right now the workload isn’t balanced, and this additional project is going to make things even more complicated. Brian, I’m going to need you to take on one of the projects. It’ll be one of the simpler ones that fits with your team. Kyle and Michael, I haven’t figured out how I’m going to divide things up yet, but I’ll talk to both of you later this morning.”
Michael felt his stomach lurch, but he was careful to keep any reaction off his face. He currently had three projects, and all three of them were well under control, fully planned, and carefully timelined. He’d spent months doing all the requirements-gathering, documentation, planning, and team building, working nights and even weekends to make sure they were right, and now who the hell knew what Curtis was going to come up with. After Curtis’s little announcement, the man launched into stories that ate up almost the next half hour. Michael kept looking at the clock, wondering when he could get back to his desk. There was plenty to get done regardless of Curtis’s project shakeup, and he had calls that needed to be made. Zoning out, Michael tried to organize everything in his head so that when he could get out of here, he could get right to work.
“So I woke up in the middle of the night, wet, and when I lifted the covers, my crotch was green. The bag of peas had leaked all over everything. Never refreeze the bag of peas. Once they thaw, throw them out.” Everyone laughed, and Michael did as well because it was expected, even if he’d already heard the story of Curtis’s vasectomy and the infamous bag of peas at least twice. Kyle had confessed after the last telling that he’d heard it at least six times. The only comforting thought about that story was that the world would be spared from any more “little Curtises”—there was a God after all.
Finally, the waste of time Curtis called a meeting was over, and Michael hurried back to his desk. Checking his e-mail once again, he found it blessedly empty and began making calls, ticking other tasks off his list as he verified that all critical tasks were on plan. The last call he made was to the software rep, Marty, to make sure they would deliver the customized store register code as promised. Their timeline for delivery was already tight and any slippage would delay the entire project. Michael did not want to have to explain that to Curtis, or for that matter to Mark, the vice president of the technology development. After being assured that everything was on track and that no problems had been found, they talked for a few minutes about Marty’s new baby before disconnecting. Michael had known Marty for years and had worked hard under his previous director to build a good relationship.
Checking his list again, he set up meetings for the following week before starting to work on the next steps in his project documentation. Fridays were usually good days with limited meetings, which allowed him to get caught up, and if he were lucky, slightly ahead on the next week’s work. “Michael.” He looked up and saw Kyle peering into his office. “Curtis asked me to send you to his office.”
Kyle definitely looked a little worse for wear, and Michael wondered just what had happened, but Kyle walked away without saying anything more. Michael picked up his day planner, and after locking his PC, walked down the hallway toward the front corner offices where the directors and vice presidents had their offices. Curtis’s door was open, but he wasn’t at his desk. Taking a seat in one of the chairs, Michael opened his planner, updating his to-do list with tasks he needed to do next week, until Curtis walked in and shut the door. Glancing at his watch, Michael realized he’d been waiting for almost fifteen minutes.
“As I said in the meeting this morning, we need to reassign some of the projects, but something else has come up since then.” Curtis sat down in his leather office chair, fishing through the piles of crap on his desk. “The Shoe Finder project for Europe is in trouble. Europe doesn’t have the resources to work with Kyle to complete the project. They have people to do the work, but not manage it from their end. They asked if we could send the project manager over there to work with their people until the project is completed at the end of October.”
“So Kyle will be going to Europe for, what, five months?” Michael asked, trying to figure out which of Kyle’s projects he could take over to help out. “What can I do to help?”
“That’s the issue. Kyle isn’t willing to be away from his family for that period of time, and Mark wanted me to ask if you’d take over the project. I want to stress that this is Kyle’s project, and you don’t have to do this.” The last sentiments were added in a rush that rendered them completely meaningless. In other words , Michael read into it silently, you don’t have to do this, but Mark will remember that you weren’t a team player and weren’t willing to do what the company needed. Since Kyle had a wife and kids, those things didn’t seem to apply to him. Michael was speechless. He hadn’t seen this coming at all, and now everything had been turned on its end. Curtis continued talking without waiting for Michael’s response. “We’ll move the Canada and Asia projects to Kyle, and transition the Europe project to you. You’ll keep the automated-scheduling project since that’s already being implemented.”
“When do you need an answer?” Michael asked, bringing Curtis to a screeching halt, and Michael realized Curtis hadn’t made any plans for what would happen if Michael said no. Curtis had simply assumed Michael would do it, and he probably would have for Dennis, his previous supervisor and one of the best people Michael had ever worked with.
“We need an answer as soon as possible, but you know if you pull this off, this could be a career-making move for you,” Curtis said as he leaned forward, the part about the promotion that he knew Michael had been hoping for going unvocalized, but definitely implied.
Michael’s throat felt dry. “Let me think about it.”
“You did the US version of this project, so this shouldn’t really be all that hard,” Curtis told him, leaning back in his chair, and Michael could almost see him pull his salesman’s hat out of the drawer. “And you’ll get to spend some time in Europe. Have you ever been?” Curtis inquired, his voice taking on an edge of excitement.
“No, I haven’t,” Michael answered, feeling a twinge of excitement himself. “I need some time to think about this,” he said, checking his watch, “and I have a meeting in a few minutes.”
“Get back to me this afternoon, and we can hammer out any details.” Curtis turned his attention to his computer, and Michael realized he’d been dismissed. Opening the office door, Michael stepped out and saw Mark walking down the hallway toward him.June 24, 2011
Free Story Reminder
Master of the Revels and The Healing are both available at Queer Magazine Online. Here's a link: http://www.queermagazineonline.com/eBook-shop.html
Copping a Sweetest Day Feel is available at Rainbow eBooks. Here's a link: http://www.rainbowebooks.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3843
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June 22, 2011
Dutch Treat - Coming Soon!!!!
June 19, 2011
New Cover
I just received the cover for Dutch Treat. I believe it is being released next month. I hope you like it.
Blurb:
When Michael accepts a company assignment overseas, he doesn't count on being dumped by his boyfriend on the way to the airport. The breakup is a bad omen--Michael's time in Europe would be one long misery of loneliness and corporate backbiting if it weren’t for his friendship with his coworker, Stephan.
When he finds out Stephan wants more than friendship, Michael is torn. Even if he chooses to risk his one bright relationship in Europe for a chance at love, when this project is over, isn't his only choice to say goodbye?
