Andrew Q. Gordon's Blog, page 44
June 23, 2014
A Closed Door – Part of the Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust Anthology
Those who follow my writing know that I don’t write a lot of contemporary MM romance stories. Most of my stuff is either paranormal or fantasy. I also haven’t written anything for inclusion in an anthology. So when I co-founded Wayward Ink Publishing with Lily Velden, it was suggested – nicely I’ll point out – that perhaps as a part owner of the company I might want to help the company along by writing something for inclusion in the anthology. So I bucked two trends and agreed to write a story for the Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust anthology that came out on July 20, 2014. A Closed Door is my contribution to the anthology. 
As I said, A Closed Door was a bit different for me. There is no magic, no wizards, no swords, no mental powers. Just two people trying to coup with loss and their past. Two warnings. There is no sex – while I know I don’t typically write sex scenes, this story just didn’t call for it. Read it to see why. The other warning is I’ve been told I made two readers cry. So be warned. Orin Merritt is the main character. He returns to the remains of his childhood home after a tornado destroy it and took his parents lives. He’s obviously devastated and while trying to cope with their loss, he has to confront his ex-best friend who is trying to make amends. In addition, he made a promise to his parents that he expected he’d have years to plan out, but with their death, he has to honor in the middle of his loss and confusion. I’m pleased with how the story came out – which probably doesn’t count for much because I wrote it, but I think it holds its own among some very good stories in the anthology.
Blurb:
We’ve all loved. We’ve all laughed. Sadly, we’ve also probably all known loss in one form or another. And, yes, we at Wayward Ink are sure we’ve all experienced lust! In Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust, you’ll experience one or more of the “L”s as we take you on a roller coaster of emotions. Whether you like to sigh over the sweet, cry for the broken-hearted, enjoy a good laugh, or get a little hot and bothered, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
A Closed Door
Part of the, Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust, Anthology from Wayward Ink Publishing
Orin Merritt left home after high school hoping to escape the hell his life had become since he’d been outted at thirteen. When a tornado destroys his childhood home and kill his parents, Orin finds a new kind of hell. Blaming himself for failing the two people who always loved and supported him, he returns home and confronts his past in the person of his one time best friend, Thomas Kennett. Thomas not only rejected Orin when he came out, he led the group that caused him to leave. As he struggles to deal with his grief , he tried to fulfill a pledge he made to his parents before their death. In the process, Orin learns that sometimes when you leave to find something, you might have left what you’re looking for behind.
Buy Links:
Wayward Ink Publishing: Amazon US: Amazon AU: Amazon UK: Amazon Germany: Barnes and Noble: Kobo:
Giveaway:
As part of the release of the new Anthology, Wayward Ink is holding a giveaway. Just click the code below for a chance to win a $25.00 Amazon Gift Card. Two people will also win a paperback copy of the book, and three people will win a WIP USB Extension Cord and Fridge Magnet. There are 11 ways to enter and you can earn up to 20 chances to win. a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the Author:
Andrew Q. Gordon wrote his first story back when yellow legal pads, ball point pens were common and a Smith Corona correctable typewriter was considered high tech. Adapting with technology, he now takes his MacBook somewhere quiet when he wants to write. He currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area with his partner of eighteen years, their young daughter and dog. In addition to dodging some very self-important D.C. ‘insiders’, Andrew uses his commute to catch up on his reading. When not working or writing, he enjoys soccer, high fantasy, baseball and seeing how much coffee he can drink in a day and not get the shakes. You can find his books at Dreamspinner Press or on Amazon Follow Andrew on his website: www.andrewqgordon.com, On Facebook: www.facebook.com/andrewqugordon, On Twitter: @andrewqgordon, Or just email him: andrewqgordon@gmail.com
June 17, 2014
Upcoming release: Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust; A Wayward Ink Anthology
Wayward Ink is publishing it’s second anthology, Love, Loss, Laugher and Lust. This time I have a short story in included. Interestingly enough, this will be my first time appearing in an anthology. My story, A Closed Door, will appear in the Loss part of the anthology. If you’d like to get your copy a bit early, we’re releasing the eBook on June 20, 2014 at 12:01 a.m. Australian time, which to us American’s would be 10:00 a.m. on June 19, 2014 – East Coast time. You can pre-order it now and have it almost a day early.
Pre-Order Link – Wayward Ink Publishing:
We’re also having a release party starting at 7:00 p.m. Newcastle Australia time. The party will run for 24 hours to allow all the authors in the anthology a chance to spend time chatting with readers and fans. There will be giveaways throughout the day, so stop by and join in the festivities.
Love, Loss, Laughter & Lust Release Party June 20, 2014 – click here for details.
Last – we have a book trailer, created by Lily G. Blunt. Check it out:
June 16, 2014
Gay Pride Month Virtual Roundtable: Week Three
We are also giving away free copies of eBooks by our participating authors and Amazon gift cards. You can enter by clicking on the RaffleCopter link below. There are special entries for each week of June, so don’t miss out on those.
Please join in the discussion in the comments. You can gain entries into the giveaway, but more importantly, you can be part of a important and fun discussion. Though only 2 panelists will be posting each week, we will all be joining the discussion.
This Week’s Discussion:
Brandilyn Carpenter:
What challenges do you see for the future for LGBT Rights?
As the LGBT community gains more rights and acceptance, how has this affected LGBT youth?
Click here to read Brandilyn’s answers.
Rob Colton:
What was the first Gay Pride event you attended? How did going make you feel?
Marriage equality has been achieved in 19 states and DC and 11 (now 12 with Wisconsin) more have had their bans overturned in court and are on appeal. How do you think marriage equality has affected the LGBT community?
Click here to read Rob’s answers:
About our Panelists
Larry Benjamin: Bronx-born wordsmith Larry Benjamin, is the author of the gay novels, Unbroken, and What Binds Us and the short story collection Damaged Angels. Larry will be hosting the discussion starting 9 June 2014
Twitter: @WriterLarry
Website: http://www.larrybenjamin.com
Rick Bettencourt: Rick Bettencourt is the author of NOT SURE BOYS, PAINTING WITH WINE and TIM ON BROADWAY. Rick hates to cook, and can often be seen eating out. He lives in the Tampa Bay area, with his husband and their dog, Bandit. Rick will be hosting the discussion starting 23 June 2014
Twitter: @rbettenc
Website: http://rickbettencourt.wordpress.com/
Brandilyn Carpenter: Brandilyn is the odd duck in this group. She owns an LGBTQ fiction focused review blog, Prism Book Alliance, and is the married mother of 3 young children. She is an advocate for equal rights and tirelessly promotes the gay fiction genre. Brandilyn will be hosting the discussion starting 16 June 2014
Twitter: @BrandilynRC
Website: http://www.prismbookalliance.com
Rob Colton: Rob Colton is a software developer by day, and avid reader of romance novels at night. A romantic at heart, he loves stories that feature big, burly men who find true love and happy endings. Rob will be hosting the discussion starting 16 June 2014 Twitter: @robcub32 Website: http://robcolton.com/
Andrew Q. Gordon: Andrew Q. Gordon lives in the Metro DC area with his husband and 2 year old daughter. While he enjoys most types of fiction, his current works include MM Fantasy, Paranormal and Contemporary Fiction. Andrew will be hosting the discussion starting 2 June 2014
Twitter: @AndrewQGordon
Website: http://andrewqgordon.com/
Lane Hayes: Lane Hayes is a M/M author, 2013 Rainbow Award finalist for her first release Better Than Good, designer, reader, lover of chocolate, red wine & clever people. Lane will be hosting the discussion starting 23 June 2014
Twitter: @LaneHayes3
Website: http://lanehayes.wordpress.com/
Debbie McGowan: Debbie McGowan is based in Lancashire, England. She writes character-driven fiction, runs an independent publishing company, and lectures in social science. Sometimes she sleeps, too! Debbie will be hosting the discussion starting 2 June 2014
Twitter: @writerdebmcg
Website: http://www.debbiemcgowan.co.uk
Brandon Shire: Brandon Shire writes fiction about human intimacy and interactions. He loves chocolate and is a staunch advocate for homeless LGBT youth. Brandon will be hosting the discussion starting 9 June 2014
Twitter: @thebrandonshire
Website: http://brandonshire.com
Giveaway
Prizes (4 winners):
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Listening to Dust by Brandon Shire, & eBook Not Sure Boys by Rick Bettencourt
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Painting with Wine by Rick Bettencourt, & eBook from Andrew Q Gordon’s backlist
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Unbroken by Larry Benjamin, & eBook Champagne by Debbie McGowen
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook from Rob Colton’s backlist, & eBook from Lane Hayes’ backlist
June 11, 2014
Cover Reveal – A Heart for Robbie; by JP Barnby
When she asked me to help spread the word about A Heart for Robbie it was an automatic yes. If you’ve never read a JP Barnaby book, you should and this will be a great place to start.
Blurb:
Waiting for someone else’s child to die so yours can live is the worst kind of Hell.
Celebrated Young Adult author Julian Holmes pits the heroic characters in his Black Heart series against all different kinds of monsters. But when a critical heart defect threatens his son’s life, he finds he has no champion. No amount of books, classes, or practice can prepare Julian for the fight to save his beautiful son’s life.
Suddenly there are hospitals, transplant lists, and the nightmare of insurance red tape to navigate. In the midst of his trouble, Julian meets Simon Phelps, the insurance coordinator for Robbie’s case. Simon lives so deep in the closet he might never find his way out, but he dreams of exactly what Julian has. Then one night, drunken need and desperation brings them together, and a new fight begins.
Pre-Order Link: A Heart for Robbie, from Dreamspinner Press
About JP Barnaby:
As a bisexual woman, J.P. is a proud member of the GLBT community both online and in her small town on the outskirts of Chicago. A member of Mensa, she is described as brilliant but troubled, sweet but introverted, and talented but deviant. She spends her days writing software and her nights writing erotica, which is, of course, far more interesting. The spare time that she carves out between her career and her novels is spent reading about the concept of love, which, like some of her characters, she has never quite figured out for herself.
Web site: http://www.JPBarnaby.com
Blog: http://www.jpbarnaby.com/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/JPBarnaby
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JPBarnaby
Sign up for updates: http://eepurl.com/nvXb5 #Survival
June 10, 2014
Wednesday Briefs: Second Shot – The Senior Year – 34
Second Shot – The Senior Year: Chapter 34
Dinner had been the raucous event Blake expected. Ethan added a weird energy when he was around Jason and the others that he didn’t display when they were alone. Even though they’d only been dating a few weeks, Blake recognized Ethan’s outgoing, extroverted behavior was something he turned on when he was nervous.
Blake heard someone scream “no” just as Jason handed him a plate. He didn’t need to turn to know Darryl and Ethan were going at it—again. This time it the topic was Pearl Jam versus Linkin Park and which band would sell out Yankee Stadium faster. When Peter interjected that neither would sell out faster than REM, Jason snorted.
“Figures he’d say that.” Jason kept his voice lower and winked when Blake looked over. “Feel free to jump in, I can finish.”
“I’m good.” Blake turned just in time to see Ethan roll his eyes and slap his knees. Whatever he said got drowned out by Darryl and Peter ganging up on him.
Dean sat at the table with the three, but he might as well have been a thousand miles away. Blake motioned with his eyes toward his friend. “He okay?”
The smile drained from Jason’s lips when he followed Blake’s gaze toward his brother. “I think so.”
“Why doesn’t he just walk away if he’s this unsure?” He accepted the bowl and began to dry.
Jason plunged his hands in the soapy water and moved them around until he came up with a couple utensils. He stared at them for a moment and Blake wondered if he’d asked the wrong question.
“I suppose he’s trying not to believe the worst. Dean’s always been pretty tolerant. I mean he barely blinked when I told him I was gay. I think he finds it hard to imagine she’s homophobic.”
“Why? Because she’s pretty?”
“No.” Jason searched the sink again. “Because, otherwise she seems just like all his other friends who don’t care that I’m gay.”
“And she’s pretty.” Blake deadpanned. When Jason looked over, he winked.
“Is there something I need to tell Ethan?” Jason released the stopper and swiped the towel from Blake’s shoulder.
“You can tell him, but he knows that I think she’s pretty. Just be ready for him to make a face like he smelled rotten eggs.” Blake let out a soft laugh remembering how disgusted Ethan looked when they’d talked about the last time Blake had kissed a girl.
The doorbell rang and the conversation quickly died. Everyone at the table looked at Dean, but he stared at his brother.
“I’ll get it.” Jason dried his hands and tossed the towel back to Blake.
Blake finished drying the pot, taking extra time so he didn’t have to look over when Jason returned. He heard voices—female voices—approaching, but when Jason laughed, his curiosity got the best of him and turned.
“Wendy!” Ethan practically flew from his chair. “Girl, it’s been too long.”
Wendy did her best to roll her eyes, but her smile never faded. Blake felt a tiny pang of jealously that he quickly tamped down.
“This is my roommate Monique.” She pointed toward a tall, woman with brownish-red hair. Blake thought she played volleyball or something, but he didn’t pay much attention to Graydon’s female athletes. “This is Ethan, he’s visiting his boyfriend, the cute, quiet guy doing everyone’s dishes.”
Blake turned red, but managed to nod. Darryl, however, had already crossed the space to stand next to Jason.
“I need a boyfriend like that.” Monique gave Blake a wave.
“Hands off, ladies.” Ethan suddenly appeared at his arm. “This one’s mine. And yes, I know how possessive that makes me sound.”
“For the record, Monique, we did not make Blake wash the dishes.” A scowling Jason hugged Wendy. “He volunteered to dry for me.”
“What about you two?” She looked at Darryl, then Dean. “I know Peter cooked, so why didn’t either of you help?”
“We were being good hosts and entertaining our guest.” Darryl spared Wendy a brief glance before turning toward her roommate. “Hi, I’m Darryl.”
Blake missed the response because Ethan has stepped in front of him. He took the bowl and set it down. “She does make a good point, let the others finish. I only get a short time to be with you.”
“Yeah, well you all were talking, so…”
“And now we’re not.” He winked and led Blake back to the table.
The doorbell rang again and Dean stood up. He took a deep breath and let it out loudly through his nose. Blake felt a little sorry for him even if it was a problem of his own making. He’d always like Dean, the Hanna issue notwithstanding.
“Is that….” Wendy arched an eyebrow at Jason.
“I assume so. We didn’t invite anyone else over.”
The room turned silent and Blake could hear muffled voices at the front door. If Dean returned to a totally quiet room, it wouldn’t make the situation any better.
“So Wendy. “ Everyone turned to him and he struggled to find something intelligent to say. “Um…how’s…”
“How’s my favorite woman?” Ethan grabbed his hand and squeezed. “I’ve not heard anything about what you’re up to all summer.”
She glared at Jason. “I’ve been good. I worked on campus this summer. And have a lead on a work study internship for the spring.”
“Awesome.” Ethan turned his head slightly toward Monique. “How about you? Good summer?”
Monique didn’t get a chance to answer as Dean and Hanna appeared in the doorway. She scanned the room and seemed to turn paler when she noticed Ethan and Blake holding hands.
“Um…” Dean drew attention to himself. “This is Hanna. Hanna I think you know most everyone. That’s Darryl, Wendy, and Monique. You know everyone else.”
Hanna managed a believable smile. “Hi.”
Peter, despite how much Blake knew he disliked Hanna already, stood up and pulled something out of the refrigerator. “Who wants dessert?”
Be Sure To Check Out The Briefs Of These Other Flashers:
Follow all your favorite flashers and read the first 100 words on the group’s website:
Wednesday Briefs Website:
or click on the individual links below:
Lily Sawyer
June 9, 2014
Guest Author – Tempeste O’Riley – Desires’ Guardian and a Giveaway
Welcome, Tempe. Why don’t you start by telling everyone a bit about yourself.
I’m a mom and author, but first and foremost, I’m a mom. I spend my days writing and helping my kids with school work, their hair, and to be happy. I’m one of those weird mom’s that thinks my job is to help them become healthy, happy, and productive members of society, lol. I don’t dictate their education goals though. I have one that wants to be a chef, one a vet, one a princess, lol… And that’s just my boys.
I love to read all kinds of books and am a proponent of Bi/Pan/Omnisexuality. I am always disheartened when I see how few stories in the M/M catalog are bi (or where a seemingly bi character enters a gay relationship and suddenly all his m/f time was false. :( ) In fact, my release in September has a bi main character. I won’t get on my soapbox, promise. But mainly, I’m a supporter of love and a lover of all.
I understand you’re going to GRL this October in Chicago. Talk a bit about how it felt to get a slot?
Yes, I’ll be there! I’m so excited to be able to attend GRL this year. I sat on the site, refreshing every couple of seconds, lol. When it went through and said ‘confirmed’ I squealed like a 5 year old—making my children, especially the 5 yo at home, look at me like I was nuts. But, that’s ok. I was so thrilled to get a slot. :D
Truly though, I’m honored to be amongst such great authors and can’t wait to go!
Desires Entwined is a series of books – you’ve created. Take us through the four books you’ve written in the series so far?
Designs of Desire, Simple Desires, Bound by Desire, and Desires’ Guardian are the current stories in the Desires Entwined series. Actually, I’ve written one more, Temptations of Desire, that comes out in September.
Designs of Desire is the story of James and Seth. James is an artist but he’s been so hurt in his past that he’s repressed most of his art, choosing to do corporate branding instead, and doesn’t date anymore. Seth is a sensual Dom and the CEO of a company that hires James for the branding of a new hotel project. Seth sets his eyes on the sexy, quiet artist, and no never even enters his mind.
Simple Desires is a short within the Grand Adventures Anthology (for Eric and TJ). James helps Seth with one of his projects, an auction to help a new gay sports program.
Bound by Desire is also a short (free). When Seth whisks James off for a weekend alone, he has more than just a bit of play planned… He has a question that he wants to ask, but for once, he’s not certain of the answer James will give him.
Desires’ Guardian is my newest release and is the story of Chase and Rhys—whom you met in Designs of Desire.
Desires Guardian is the latest chapter in Desires Entwined, and Dreamspinner Press released it on June 6th. Talk a bit about this installment in the series.
DG was both fun and painful to write.
When Chase and Rhys met, there were sparks but that’s not enough to overcome the anger and pain of their meeting and their pasts. As they work out how to work together and coexist, they grow closer, but then Chase’s past comes back to visit and Rhys is put to the test as he tries to help the man he’s falling for, and then has to race the clock and a murderer to save the love he hopes to keep.
Are there more books in the series on the way?
Yes, there are. As I said earlier, there’s another due out in September. There are also four more planned. Each is centered on one of James and Chase’s friends, whom you meet throughout the first three books.
Tell us something(s) interesting that is not in the blurb?
That looks can be deceiving. Chase may seem like a total party-boy and a bottom, maybe even a little bit into kink, but he’s a lot stronger than most give him credit for… and he’s a total top! ;) Makes for some interesting issues later, lol.
What’s your favorite part of the writing process?
Oh, that would be doing the rereading where you get to sit back and watch your story unfold.
What’s your least favorite?
Editing! It is the bane of authors everywhere!
Since there is always another story to tell, what are you working on now?
A couple of things actually. One was originally written as a short for an anthology, but has taken on a life of its own. It will be a novella when done, I think. It’s about your typical quiet IT guy who crushes on his new neighbor. The problems come in when said neighbors true nature is revealed and more than sex or their relationship is put on the line.
The other is also a novella and features one sweet but scrappy pastry chef and a closeted lawyer, lol. I won’t say much yet, as it’s still early, but both men are a lot of fun to write!
What have you read lately that most people haven’t read but should?
I’m a voracious reader, so I’m not certain how to answer this, lol. Grace R. Duncan, Andrew Grey, and Vicktor Alexander have held much of my reading attention lately. But, if you want a book to read… Choices by Grace R. Duncan
If you could meet any writer, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
Only one? Hmm… Can we go with a top 3, maybe? Dr. Seuss, Shakespeare, Andrew Grey… All three are inspirations and kickass authors!
Besides reading and writing, what else do you enjoy?
Playing with my kids, listening to music, working for my temple, and just visiting with friends. I’m not into parties or going out, so it’s a pretty quiet time—though I do love to crank up the tunes. ;)
Last question is all yours – feel free to talk about anything you want your readers to know about you, your book, anything at all.
One of the issues in DG is self-acceptance, though it may not seem so on the surface. In that vein, I thought I’d share the dedication…
This is for those who have come back from the edge, for those who still search for their heart, and for all who struggle with who they are.
Never give up!
Thanks for being my guest, now it’s time to plug your work.
Thanks so much for having me over!
Desires’ Guardian
by Tempeste O’Riley
Desires Entwined series book #2
M/M Erotic Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: June 6th, 2014 (ebook/print)
Length: Novel / 200 pages
Order: ♥ Dreamspinner Press ♥ All Romance ♥ ♥ Amazon ♥ B & N ♥
Add to: Goodreads
Description:
Most people see Chase Manning as the party-boy twink he seems on the surface. Only James, Chase’s BFF, knows the depth of his loyalty and the extent of the wounds Chase carries inside. When Chase meets Rhys Sayer things don’t go well, but he can’t shake his attraction to the huge, sexy man.
Rhys is a man of contradictions and fear—a strange combination for a PI and bodyguard. He’s in a bad place emotionally when he sets eyes on Chase for the first time. When Chase puts the moves on him, Rhys insults him, thwarting any possibility of a relationship. Rhys doesn’t see himself as a complicated man, but he dreads the very kind of connection he desires.
Just as they’re trying to overcome their uncertainties, Chase is put in harm’s way. Luckily Rhys and their friends have all the right talents to help Rhys save the man of his dreams.
Excerpt:
Chase was thankful for the light traffic on his way to The Coiled Dragon Agency, the PI and bodyguard company Rhys and Mark owned. His mind wandered as he drove, reflecting on the changes in his life since he’d left Skye Designs. He’d only stayed so long in the first place to be there for James, but now that James only worked for them on a consulting basis and had dedicated himself to his art career, there was nothing to keep Chase there anymore. Starting his own consulting firm had terrified him at first, but he loved the freedom. Besides, it allowed him to still act as James’s assistant when needed.
He made it to the site right on time. He hoped his annoyance and exhaustion wouldn’t be too visible.
Shoving his keys into his pocket, Chase stepped out of his light blue Cruze, tilted his head back, and welcomed the crisp cool air and bright morning sun as it beat down on him. He knew he needed to wake up more and stop scowling before he met with Rhys, but his nerves had been on edge ever since he’d said yes two days ago.
He took a deep breath, then turned and headed toward the office. Chase’s phone rang as he reached for the door. “Manning,” he answered, no longer hiding the lilt he normally spoke with. He was his own boss now, and he refused to tone down or hide who he was ever again.
“Chase Manning?”
“Yes, this is Chase.”
“Good. I have the right number.” He recognized the voice but couldn’t put his finger on who it was, not with the loud, rumbling background noise.
“Yes, you have my number. Now, do I get to know who you are, or should I hang up?” he teased.
It kind of sounded like Dal, but the chuckle that came through the phone went straight to his gut. “I had you pegged for the studious type that always checks the screen before answering.” He knew that voice now: Rhys.
“What can I do for you, Sayer?”
“You can stop right where you are and not go in that door.”
Chase’s head popped up. He looked around the driveway and the street quickly, not amused when he noticed nothing around him but normal morning traffic. The office was in a converted house; the first floor was the agency. He knew the two floors above were living quarters, though he didn’t know who lived up there.
“Why?” he ground out. “I’m here as a favor to you because James wants us to work together. For now.” He needed more caffeine and sleep if the man was getting to him this fast.
“Mark was called away on another job. I’m on my way back now, so if you go in, you’ll be breaking in, as no one’s in the office.”
Chase ground his teeth as he counted to ten in his head.
“You could have—Whatever, just hurry up or I’m going back home. Even empty, my bed is more enjoyable than you.” Chase snapped his cell shut and slipped it back into his pocket, but immediately drew it back out again and sent a short text to James.
»I SO hate you right now! XOXO«
Right after he hit send, he heard the unmistakable sound of Rhys’s Softail.
His cell chimed.
»LOL« was all James replied.
Desires Entwined Series:
Giveaway:
About the Author:
Tempeste O’Riley is an out and proud omnisexual / bi-woman whose best friend growing up had the courage to do what she couldn’t–defy the hate and come out. He has been her hero ever since.
Tempe is a hopeless romantic that loves strong relationships and happily-ever-afters. Though new to writing M/M, she has done many things in her life, though writing has always drawn her back–no matter what else life has thrown her way. She counts her friends, family, and Muse as her greatest blessings in life. She lives in Wisconsin with her children, reading, writing, and enjoying life.
Tempe is also a proud PAN member of Romance Writers of America®, Rainbow Romance Writers, and WisRWA. Learn more about Tempeste and her writing at http://tempesteoriley.com.
Website ♥ Goodreads ♥ Twitter ♥ Facebook ♥ Google + ♥ DSP ♥ Blog
June 5, 2014
Guest Author: H. Lewis-Foster
In the Blue Moon; by H. Lewis-Foster:
Part of Bollocks! A Wayward Ink Publishing Anthology
It’s great to be here today to tell you about my new short story In the Blue Moonlight, which is part of the BOLLOCKS! anthology. I must admit, I’m thrilled to be part of such a superbly titled collection. ‘Bollocks’ is one of my favourite words – slightly naughty, but not too shocking, it’s the ideal word for so many occasions – and is also very British.
I’ve lived in various towns and cities in the UK, from the picturesque South West to the equally lovely (if slightly chillier) North where I live now. There is so much variety in this little country, with its landscape ranging from the lush green hills of Dorset to the rugged moorlands of Northumbria. The traditions, food and architecture are so different from one county to the next, it’s almost like being in another country.
The stories in Bollocks! are also wonderfully varied, but they allhave a British theme, and In the Blue Moonlight is no exception. It’s set in a small town in the English countryside, where the pace of life is a little slower than in the bigger towns and cities. While there isn’t a great deal of crime in Lenford, the local police force play a big part in the story, especially handsome PC Mark Timmis, who has recently arrived from Manchester.
Mark is one of the officers on the receiving end of accountant Simon’s rash decision to bare his bum on a night out with his brother’s student mates. Simon fears his exploits might end up on YouTube, but it doesn’t occur to him he might come face to face with PC Timmis in a bar a few weeks later.
I’m sure you can tell this isn’t my most serious story, and I really loved writing it. It’s full of love and laughs, and I hope you’ll enjoy reading it and all of the other stories in Wayward Ink Publishing’s first anthology – I just have to say it again – BOLLOCKS!
Blurb:
Simon has a good job and a nice house, and according to his best friend Chris, he’s turning into a boring old fart. So it’s totally out of character when Simon bares his bum to the local constabulary on a night out with his brother’s student mates. He hopes he’s put the incident behind him, when Simon bumps into one of the officers. Simon fears he’s in trouble, then thinks he’s in luck when PC Mark Timmis buys him a drink – but life in a rural English town is never as simple as it seems.
Excerpt:
“BOLLOCKS.” Chris laughed, scooping a handful of peanuts from a bowl. “A boring old fart like you would never do something as daft as that.”
“Thanks very much.” Simon tried his best to look offended, but he knew his best friend was only joking. Or at least he hoped he was, and to be fair his story was rather bizarre, but it was completely and cringingly true.
“Give us the details then.” Chris chomped noisily, with his usual lack of table manners. “Where did you say you were?”
“High Street. Outside the town hall.”
Simon couldn’t have picked a more public place for his unlikely moment of madness. He’d been out for a drink with his younger brother, Sean, and his student mates. Simon hardly knew most of them, but they seemed a pleasant bunch and they’d had an enjoyable time in one of the town’s more civilized pubs. They’d had a few beers, but none of them were drunk, so Simon couldn’t use inebriation as an excuse for his behavior.
People of all ages and sartorial styles were ambling out of bars and pubs, under the watchful eye of half a dozen members of the local constabulary. A small rural town, Lenford wasn’t known for its anti-social behavior. Indeed, when a creative youth had painted a cock and balls on a bus stop, it made the front page of the Evening Gazette. Needless to say, the culprit was caught and swiftly dispatched to make amends with a bucket of soapy water. So it was wholly out of character for Lenford, when the town council’s deputy head of finance turned to Sean’s mates and said, “Do you know what I’ve always wanted to do? I’ve always wanted to moon a policeman.”
The teenagers looked at their friend’s responsible brother in astonishment, and Simon wished he could take the words that had popped out of his mouth and stuff them straight back in. Then a mischievous grin spread from face to face, and a voice piped up, “Go on then. Why not?”
Buy links:
Wayward Ink Publishing:
Barnes & Noble:
Amazon:
Kobo:
Amazon UK:
Author Bio:
H. Lewis-Foster has worked with books, in one form or another, since leaving university. As a keen reader of gay fiction, she decided to try writing herself, and is now the proud author of several short stories and a debut novel.
H. has lived in various parts of the UK and has recently moved to the north of England, where she’s enjoying city life, especially the theatres and cinemas. She tries not to watch too much television, but is a big fan of Downton Abbey, and while she’s writing, she loves listening to Test Match Special (where they spend far more time talking about cakes than cricket!)
H. has also ventured into playwriting and was thrilled to see her first play performed at the Southend Playwriting Festival earlier this year.
Links:
Website:
http://hlewisfoster.wix.com/books
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/HLewisFoster
Giveaway:
To celebrate the release of its first book, Wayward Ink Publishing is having a giveaway.
10 winners will receive a Wayward Ink Pen and Lip Balm
5 winners will receive a UBS Extension Cord and Fridge Magnet
3 winners will receive a paperback copy of Bollocks! signed by Tabitha McGowan, Anyta Sunday, Taylin Clavelli, Elin Gregory, H Lewis-Foster and Lily Velden
1 winner will receive a $25.00 Amazon gift card.
Twenty Percent (20%) of all sales of Bollocks! in the month of June will be donated to an LGBT Charity in the UK.
To Enter click on the Rafflecopter Code and follow the instructions.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
New Release: Bollocks! A New Anthology from Wayward Ink Publishing
As I’ve mentioned in the past, Lily Velden and I are collectively Wayward Ink Publishing (WIP).
Today marks our first release – Bollocks!
Bollocks! is an anthology with a British twist. It was created and released as part of WIP’s participation at UK GLBTQ Fiction Meet held this year in Bristol – June 6-8, 2014. 20% of all sales in June will be donated to an UK based LGBT focused charity.
For more information about Bollocks! - check out the new video trailer for the book posted below.
For more information about WIP – visit our website and poke around: Wayward Ink Publishing
Be sure to read to the end for details on the giveaway!
Bollocks as a word is a little naughty. It’s a little cheeky. It’s a little rude.
And it’s the tongue-in-cheek theme for this collection of short stories celebrating all things English.
You’ll discover a bonk is not a typo for somewhere to keep your money.
A shag isn’t something thick and plush under your feet to keep them warm, though it is guaranteed to heat you up!
And as for a snog, the boys of Bollocks! can assure you it’s worth finding out what that Brit term means.
The stories will make you laugh.
They’ll make you snort.
They’ll make you blush.
Sigh—they’ll probably make you shake your head.
They may even make you want to catch the next flight to England to find something a little British of your own!
It’s not just cricket, or jolly hockey sticks, it’s more… it’s the very British, Bollocks!
Stories Included in Bollocks!:
HEALING
Tabitha McGowan
Werewolf meets human healer, and snuggling ensues…
but not till the danger that’s threatening them both has been dealt with…
SHEEP’S CLOTHING
Elin Gregory
Meet Darren Murchison: self-employed plumber and reluctant werewolf…
NO WORRIES MATE
E.S. Skipper
“Who needs a partner when I have this?” Rangi said, opening his arms out as if to encompass the entire island and surrounding ocean.
Who indeed…
IT COULD BE YOU
Anyta Sunday
Ted has just won 15 million quid.
Or at least, he would have won 15 million quid if he could find his bloody lotto ticket…
JUST LIKE PULLING TEETH
L.J. Harris
A trip to the dentist has never been so… interesting…
DIY DELIGHTS
Taylin Clavelli
While renovating his first house with his partner, Mike, Duncan discovers a plethora of reasons to use his favourite word… Bollocks!
IN THE BLUE MOONLIGHT
H. Lewis-Foster
A bottom bared to a local bobby means a night out Simon will never forget.
IT’S WRITTEN IN THE STARS
Lily Velden
Who needs a holiday when your destiny is Written in the Stars?
Buy Links:
Wayward Ink Publishing:
Barnes & Noble:
Amazon:
Kobo:
Amazon UK:
Giveaway:
To celebrate the release of its first book, Wayward Ink Publishing is having a giveaway.
10 winners will receive a Wayward Ink Pen and Lip Balm
5 winners will receive a UBS Extension Cord and Fridge Magnet
3 winners will receive a paperback copy of Bollocks! signed by Tabitha McGowan, Anyta Sunday, Taylin Clavelli, Elin Gregory, H Lewis-Foster and Lily Velden
1 winner will receive a $25.00 Amazon gift card.
Twenty Percent (20%) of all sales of Bollocks! in the month of June will be donated to an LGBT Charity in the UK.
To Enter click on the Rafflecopter Code and follow the instructions.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
June 4, 2014
Wednesday Briefs: Second Shot – The Senior Year – 33
Second Shot – The Senior Year: Chapter 33
Ethan pulled Blake into the guest room and quickly shut the door without letting it slam. When he turned around, he winked and moved closer to his guest.
“Hey, handsome.” He didn’t give Blake a chance to answer before pressing their lips together. The kiss went straight to Blake’s groin, and from what he could feel pressed against him, it had the same effect on Ethan.
Despite Jason ‘lending’ them the room for the weekend, Blake wasn’t totally comfortable making out while the others were downstairs. Correction, Darryl was downstairs, Peter was in his room just down the hall. His unease, however, did not cause him to end their kiss prematurely.
When Blake stepped back to catch his breath, Ethan did the same.
“Yep, you still kiss really well.” Ethan leaned back and tugged Blake with him. “Best I can remember.”
“Hmm, I might need another sample to see if you still kiss as good as you used to.” He inched closer, but Ethan pushed back and turned his head.
“Seriously? You need more proof?”
“No, but it sounded like a good reason to kiss you again.”
“Well, in that case, let the sampling begin.”
They kissed again, but Blake broke away when Ethan started to massage his erection.
“Not here.”
“What?” Ethan shook his head. “You think they’re expecting we’re not going to touch each other in here. Go check the nightstand; someone put condoms and lube in there.”
Blake stared at the small brown stand as if he could see inside the drawer. “I’m sure they do. In fact, Darryl told me to tell you to keep it down this time. But…”
“Darryl said what?” Ethan turned toward the door and stared at the solid wood.
“Calm down.” He spun Ethan around and held him by the upper arms. “It was a joke. Darryl was too drunk to have heard anything last time. He just said that to yank your chain.”
“He‘s not the one I’d want to yank my anything.” He raised his eyebrows and struggled to keep from laughing.
“That’s good because I don’t want anyone else touching you that way either. My point is, I’d rather not have them think that‘s the only reason I asked them to let us stay here.”
“Wow.” Ethan kissed Blake’s cheek and pulled him into a hug. “Who knew you were so romantic?”
“I don’t think I really am. I’m just telling you how I feel.”
“I like that you’re a bit possessive without being overly jealous.” Ethan sat on the edge of the bed and patted next to him. “I promise to be good—well other than maybe kiss you again.”
Blake moved his overnight bag to the side and sat where requested. “It’d be crazy to be jealous. As far away as we are, if I was that, I’d go nuts in a week.”
Wiggling a bit, Ethan put his head in Blake’s lap and looked up. “I don’t think you’d do crazy well. That’s more my gig than yours.”
They were talking about different types of crazy, but Blake let it go and ran his fingers through Ethan’s hair. Every couple of strokes he’d stop and gently massage Ethan’s scalp. His efforts evoked a sigh of contentment.
“Keep that up and we’ll miss the evening’s festivities for sure.” Ethan closed his eyes and settled back.
Conscious that his boyfriend’s head rested on his erection, Blake tried to shift Ethan to a side.
Ethan refused to budge. “I know what you’re doing, but I’m not moving. I like how it feels.”
Ethan might like it, but if he didn’t stop moving his head, Blake was going to cum soon. “You need to move, please. It’s becoming a problem.”
“Why’s that?” With an evil smirk, Ethan redoubled his head moving. “Too much stimulation?”
“Do you really want me to shoot now? Like this?” Slipping his hand under his boyfriend’s head, he lifted up enough to break the contact. “I might be one and done tonight.”
“Although I’m willing to take the chance you’ve got more than one in you, I’ll stop—for now.” He stopped moving and let Blake guide him to a new spot. “Better?”
“Yes.” It was only slightly less arousing, but without the direct contact on his cock, it would be enough. “What did you want to do tonight?”
The goofy grin on Ethan’s face told Blake he’d chosen the wrong words. “You really need to ask?”
“Is that all you think about?” He reached over and slithered his hand under the waistband of Ethan’s jeans. It took less than a second to make contact with his boyfriend’s erection. He gave it a quick squeeze and withdrew.
“Not the only thing, but it’s tough to think of other things when we’re alone and sitting like this.”
If they were somewhere more private, Blake would have thrown Ethan onto the bed, stripped him naked and given him the hard pounding he enjoyed so much. He still planned to do that, only later. “Save that mood.”
“You know I will.”
Smiling, Blake rolled his eyes dramatically as he stared down. “And you want me to believe it’s not the only thing you think about.”
Ethan stretched up and at the same time pulled Blake’s head down. The kiss was brief, but it did nothing to help things calm ‘down.’ Once he let go of Blake, Ethan sat up.
“Okay then. What’s on tap for tonight?”
Twisting quickly, Blake reversed roles and put his head in Ethan’s lap. “That’s a good question. When I left the field house, Dean asked Jase if they could talk. From the little I saw, it looked deep.”
“Deep? From Dean?” He absently began to stroke Blake’s head. “That’d be a first.”
“That’s not true, you just never see the serious side of him. When he focuses, Dean gets so serious. But I assume it’s about that girl we met last time you were here.”
“Oh, her.”
“Exactly.” Blake would have said more, but someone knocked on the door. He quickly sat up. “Come in.”
The door cracked open and Jason poked his head through the opening. “Hey, Ethan.”
“What’s up, Jase?” Ethan crossed the small space and gave Jason a hug.
“I hope I didn’t interrupt anything.”
“Seriously?” Ethan shook his head. “First, if you had, would be we dressed? Second, would I have left the door unlocked? And third, would we have said come in?”
“No, no and knowing you, yes. You’d invite me in just to embarrass me.”
Blake laughed and slid his arms around Ethan’s waist. “He’s totally got your number.”
“Whatever.” Despite the feigned indignation, he made no attempt to move. “I assume you had a reason for knocking?”
“Yep. What do you two have planned for tonight?”
Blake raised an eyebrow. “That sounds like you’ve got something in mind.”
Jason stepped further into the room and shut the door. “As a matter of fact, I do.”
Be Sure To Check Out The Briefs Of These Other Flashers:
Follow all your favorite flashers and read the first 100 words on the group’s website:
Wednesday Briefs Website:
or click on the individual links below:
June 1, 2014
Gay Pride Month Virtual Roundtable
This week on my blog, we’re trying something a little different. In honor of LGBT Pride month, I am among a great group of panelists who will be hosting a month long discussion about Pride, LGBT Youth, Allies, and more. Our panelists are a diverse group of readers, writers, and supporters of gay fiction, including Larry Benjamin, Rick Bettencourt, Brandilyn Carpenter, Rob Colton, Andrew Q Gordon, Lane Hayes, Debbie McGowan, and Brandon Shire. Each week, two people will answer two questions related LGBT pride, rights, and related topics. We will also be giveaway free copies of eBooks by our participating authors and a Amazon gift card. You can enter by clicking on the RaffleCopter link below. There are special entries for each week of June, so don’t miss out on those.
Please join in the discussion in the comments. You can gain entries into the giveaway, but more importantly, you can be part of a important and fun discussion. Though only 2 panelists will be posting each week, we will all be joining the discussion.
This Week’s Discussion:
What was the first gay pride event you attend? How did going make you feel?
The first pride event I attended was in Philadelphia. I was 24 and dating someone at the time – we hadn’t been dating long. I remember wanting to go because I thought it was good to ‘show up in numbers.’ He was slightly apathetic at first, but he held my hand for most of the day and got into things once we got there.
I remember feeling less vulnerable at the time. Sure it was the same streets, same city I was living in, so I should have felt the same, but among the many thousands attending, it felt like safety in numbers. The other thought was that I wanted it to be like that always. I wanted to be able to hold my boy friend’s hand everywhere, everywhen. In a way it felt like a dream and I didn’t want to wake up. Of course then we went home, left the safety zone and it was life as usual again.
The reason I chose this question was, in many ways, gay pride events feel so different to me now. When Mike and I first started dating 19 years ago, we went to the events. Then life started to get a bit busier, we had a house, projects, work etc. It suddenly became inconvenient and we stopped going.
When ‘lil q was born, we made a decision to go again. Maybe it was that in some ways we were starting over again, this time as parents, but we both agreed it felt right to go and to bring her. We’ve been the last two years, but we’ll miss this one due to a family event in another state.
Do you think gay pride events are still necessary?
I chose this as a follow on to the first question. I struggled to answer this when I saw it, because is some ways it almost feels like they’re not. My answer, however, is a resounding yes, we do still need them.
Perhaps part of the apathy on our part is where we live. Many areas in Maryland that surround DC are called the People’s Republic of {Insert name of super liberal town here.} in jest. If there is any homophobia among the people in the area, it’s ‘in the closet.’ Express homophobia and you can expect to be shunned by the vast majority of the community. You become the village outcast, not the LGBT people you’re attacking.
This safe zone, if you will, certainly removes the feeling of safety I used to feel going to the events. It’s not different than my everyday life. The question then becomes, what about the other feelings I got, the desire to be like that every day – well, I have that too now. I can pretty much go anywhere in my area and not worry about being gay bashed. That might be a false sense of security, but I don’t think so. The places I’d get gay bashed are areas I’d worry about being mugged in general. But at the shops and cafes in and around my house, at the mall, at the sporting events in my area, I don’t feel oppressed at all. It’s clear we’re a couple/family and no one says anything negative. In fact, most people come by to see ‘lil q and are quite friendly.
Why the ‘yes’ answer then? Because there’s still a struggle going on. Not everyone lives in the People’s Republic of My Town. Not everyone can get married, not everyone can adopt together and both be parents and have the same protections that I enjoy. There are still people who think this is a choice, a phase, the result of some parental mistake, whatever. There are still places in the country and around the world where no one cares if you’re being bullied, picked on, taunted, beaten – or worse – killed just because you’re gay. The fact we’re still fighting for marriage equality when it doesn’t affect anyone’s lives but ours, when it has no bearing on straight marriages, their families, their children, or ironically, their divorce rate. When you think in the broader, global sense of community and not the insular local sense, you see that the haves are still a very small part of the whole. There are far too many people who do not have basic rights for us to say ‘mission accomplished.’ [We all know how well that phrased worked out for W.]
In trying to word this answer, I remembered reading a statement about why we need gay pride events. It took a bit of searching, but I found it. This says it better then I did. If you’re ever asked why again, show them this. Comments welcome. - AQG
Please click on over to Debbie McGowan’s site and read the other half of this week’s discussion.
http://www.debbiemcgowan.co.uk
About our Panelists
Larry Benjamin: Bronx-born wordsmith Larry Benjamin, is the author of the gay novels, Unbroken, and What Binds Us and the short story collection Damaged Angels. Larry will be hosting the discussion starting 9 June 2014
Twitter: @WriterLarry
Website: http://www.larrybenjamin.com
Rick Bettencourt: Rick Bettencourt is the author of NOT SURE BOYS, PAINTING WITH WINE and TIM ON BROADWAY. Rick hates to cook, and can often be seen eating out. He lives in the Tampa Bay area, with his husband and their dog, Bandit. Rick will be hosting the discussion starting 23 June 2014
Twitter: @rbettenc
Website: http://rickbettencourt.wordpress.com/
Brandilyn Carpenter: Brandilyn is the odd duck in this group. She owns an LGBTQ fiction focused review blog, Prism Book Alliance, and is the married mother of 3 young children. She is an advocate for equal rights and tirelessly promotes the gay fiction genre. Brandilyn will be hosting the discussion starting 16 June 2014
Twitter: @BrandilynRC
Website: http://www.prismbookalliance.com
Rob Colton: Rob Colton is a software developer by day, and avid reader of romance novels at night. A romantic at heart, he loves stories that feature big, burly men who find true love and happy endings. Rob will be hosting the discussion starting 16 June 2014 Twitter: @robcub32 Website: http://robcolton.com/
Andrew Q. Gordon: Andrew Q. Gordon lives in the Metro DC area with his husband and 2 year old daughter. While he enjoys most types of fiction, his current works include MM Fantasy, Paranormal and Contemporary Fiction. Andrew will be hosting the discussion starting 2 June 2014
Twitter: @AndrewQGordon
Website: http://andrewqgordon.com/
Lane Hayes: Lane Hayes is a M/M author, 2013 Rainbow Award finalist for her first release Better Than Good, designer, reader, lover of chocolate, red wine & clever people. Lane will be hosting the discussion starting 23 June 2014
Twitter: @LaneHayes3
Website: http://lanehayes.wordpress.com/
Debbie McGowan: Debbie McGowan is based in Lancashire, England. She writes character-driven fiction, runs an independent publishing company, and lectures in social science. Sometimes she sleeps, too! Debbie will be hosting the discussion starting 2 June 2014
Twitter: @writerdebmcg
Website: http://www.debbiemcgowan.co.uk
Brandon Shire: Brandon Shire writes fiction about human intimacy and interactions. He loves chocolate and is a staunch advocate for homeless LGBT youth. Brandon will be hosting the discussion starting 9 June 2014
Twitter: @thebrandonshire
Website: http://brandonshire.com
Giveaway
Prizes (4 winners):
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Listening to Dust by Brandon Shire, & eBook Not Sure Boys by Rick Bettencourt
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Painting with Wine by Rick Bettencourt, & eBook from Andrew Q Gordon’s backlist
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook Unbroken by Larry Benjamin, & eBook Champagne by Debbie McGowen
$ 10 Amazon GC, eBook from Rob Colton’s backlist, & eBook from Lane Hayes’ backlist
