Andrew Q. Gordon's Blog, page 64

July 7, 2013

New Releases: Monday July 8, 2013

All authors face the same daunting task – how to get their book noticed. In an effort to help some of my fellow authors, every Monday I’m going to post some of the numerous new books that have been released. For the most part these will be M/M Fiction with a heavy bias on Romance. That will probably evolve over time, but for now that’s were it is.


I’ve not read everything that is listed, though I’ve probably read or will read many. Which means inclusion on the list isn’t an endorsement or suggestion. You should read the blurbs provided to see if you’re interested. I’ll post reviews to books I recommend under the ‘Books I Reviewed’ tab. This is just a partial list of what’s new for visitors of my site to check out. That said if you end up reading something listed here and want to comment – please do. I reserve the right, however, to delete nasty or personal comments.


If you’re an author and want to include a new release, email me your blurb, cover image, buy links and any personal links you want included. No excerpts, interviews, giveaways etc. Those are welcome, but can be discussed separately.


ShadowsIntheNight-Church_headerbanner
Shadows in the Night: by M. A. Church
~A Leap of Faith Novel
ShadowsInTheNight_final Blurb:

When Chip Riley’s beloved granny passes away, she leaves him all her money, her land, and a house that needs some tender love and care. She never mentioned the legacy comes with a Native American shifter who intends to claim Chip as his mate.


Jason Sky has lived since buffalo roamed the land. When his totem spirit, a black cougar, saves a little girl, he doesn’t realize that generations later, her grandson will become his mate, leaving him to take on a modern man with modern ideas. But that’s the least of his problems.


Garon, another shifter with a long-held hatred for Jason, plots to kidnap Chip and lure Jason to his death. Soon Chip finds himself in an untenable position between a rock and a hard place. A leap of faith may be the only way to save himself and the man he’s learned to love.


Buy Links:

eBook: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3990


Paperback: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3991


The Chosen: by Annette Gisby

chosen_promoBlurb:


Love or duty – which would you choose


The neighbouring kingdoms of Oscia and Arcathia have been at a tentative

peace for three years after centuries of warfare. Prince Severin of

Arcathia has been brought up to put duty before all else and as the only

son of the King and Queen, it is his duty to marry and produce an heir.

His parents want him to marry an Oscian princess to cement that tentative

peace. Unfortunately Severin isn’t interested in princesses. Now, if he

had his pick of princes that would be another matter.


Havyn has been a slave all his life. When his aptitude for wizardry is

discovered, he finds himself purchased and freed by Prince Severin and

apprenticed to the royal wizard, Ildar. His duty is to stay chaste to keep

his powers strong, but his feelings for Severin sorely test his resolve.


With kingdoms at war, the throne hanging in the balance, magic in the air,

and outside forces trying to keep them apart, can the two men find

happiness together, or is duty more important than love?


Buy links:

http://www.amazon.com/The-Chosen-ebook/dp/B00DFKVJ5C/


https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thechosen-1222707-143.html


http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/326842


Review excerpts:

“Annette Gisby is one of my new favorite authors to watch out for. The

Chosen was simply a fantastic mixture of passion, longing, magic and

kingdom intrigue.” – Bitten by Books


“The way Severin and Havyn fight their attraction even as each of them

continue to crave each other was heartbreaking. This was a really good

novel, one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and remember for quite some

time.” – Coffee Time Romance


Author Bio:

Annette Gisby grew up in a small town in Northern Ireland, moving to

London when she was seventeen. Being a very small town there were no

bookshops and a small library. When she’d devoured every book she could

get her hands on in the library, she started writing her own stories so

she would always have something to read later.


When not writing she enjoys reading, cinema, theatre, walks along deserted

beaches or wandering around ruined castles (great places for inspiration!)

New Zealand is her favourite place and she hopes to travel back there one

day. She’s a fan of Japanese Manga and Anime and one day hopes to learn

Japanese.


She currently lives in Hampshire with her husband, a collection of

porcelain dolls and stuffed penguins and enough books to fill a small

library. It’s diminishing gradually since the discovery of ebooks but

still has a long way to go.


http://www.annettegisby.n3.net

http://zipperrippers.blogspot.co.uk/

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/252221.Annette_Gisby


Challenging Fate: by Renee Stevens
Challenging Fate Cover 200x300 copy Blurb:

Maki waited years to discover what dragon spirit the fates gifted him with.  He anticipated his first flight, his parents at his side, as he launched himself into the sky for the first time.  Best of all, one day he’d find his mate and spend the rest of his life with someone by his side.  Unfortunately for him, things didn’t go exactly as he’d always planned.


Buy Links:

It will be available at Amazon, All Romance, and GA, so:


Amazon Ebooks – http://www.amazon.com/Kindle-eBooks/b?ie=UTF8&node=154606011


All Romance – https://www.allromanceebooks.com/


Gay Authors – http://www.gayauthors.org/forums/files/


About The Author 

Renee Stevens resides in Wyoming with her husband, and while they have no two-legged kids, they have plenty of the four legged variety.  With three canines and three felines, her life is never boring.  When not sitting in front of her laptop working on her next story, Renee prefers to escape to the great outdoors.


Renee began writing in her early teens but didn’t get serious about being an author until her mid-twenties.  Since then she has written a number of stories, most of which can be found online for free.  She hopes to e-publish a few more of her works in the very near future.


While she does have some modern pieces, her favorite characters to work with are shifters and vampires.  When not writing, camping, or refereeing the critters, Renee spends her time as a Moderator and the Anthology Coordinator over at GayAuthors.org.


Author Links:

Blog: http://reneestevens.blogspot.com/


GayAuthors: Renee Stevens


Twitter: @Renee_Stevens


Facebook: Renee Stevens 


Thick As Thieves: by Tali Spencer
ThickAsThieves2 Blurb:

After Vorgell the barbarian fucks himself with a unicorn horn, he ends up in a cell with Maddog, a pretty young thief. It’s lust at first sight for Vorgell—but honestly, he can’t help it. Unicorn horn is a potent aphrodisiac, and now he can’t stop thinking about sex. Luckily, Madd is one male witch who knows how to put Vorgell’s new magical body to good use when he tricks Vorgell into a kiss that helps them escape.


Vorgell may desire sex in general—and Madd in particular—but Madd has no intention of being screwed by a man twice his size. He has problems of his own, including an enchanted collar that causes him to desire his most hated enemy. He wants that collar off as soon as possible, but that requires stealing a basilisk egg from the castle they just escaped.


Drawn together by lust and magic, the two men join forces and soon find themselves up to their necks in witches, wizards, and trouble. Vorgell and Madd might just be perfect for each other, but first they have to survive long enough to find out.


Buy Link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4002


Author Bio

Tali Spencer fell in love with writing at an early age and never stopped. Thanks to a restless father, she grew up as a bit of a nomad and still loves to travel whenever she can. Her longest stint in one place was Milwaukee where she went to college and enjoyed a series of interesting careers including respiratory therapist, airport executive, and raising three surprisingly well-adjusted sons. She later married her true love and put down new roots in Philadelphia, where she lives in an ongoing Italian American family sitcom. At least she’s learned how make good pasta. When not writing, Tali reads everything from sweet goofy romances to Lebanese cookbooks, manages her fantasy football team—go Gekkos!—and takes long walks with her loving, if slightly neurotic, poodle.


Visit Tali’s blog at http://talismania-brilliantdisguise.blogspot.com


E-mail: tali.spencer1@gmail.com


Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/tali.spencer


Twitter: @tali_spencer


On Tinsel Wings: by Augusta Li
On Tinsel Wings-1 (2) Blurb:

Patrick Harford sees hope as magical and beautiful, too delicate to hold—and everything in his life has proved him right. An unhealthy home leaves him hiding in the shadows as he tries to come to terms with his sexuality.


Patrick finds solace among the performers at the Allegheny Mountains Renaissance Faire, where he discovers a love of performing and costumes. As he starts to come out of his shell, he meets Yu Elion, an apprentice blacksmith. Yu gives Patrick a glimpse of fairy-tale love.


But just when hope starts to blossom, it withers. Cynical after a past filled with failed relationships, Yu keeps Patrick at a distance. Working two jobs has disastrous consequences. And an obsessed fan takes things a step too far. After seeing all he’s built start to crumble, Patrick doesn’t know if he has what it takes to try again on his own, and Yu might not have the strength to be the one Patrick needs.


Haunted-Stein_postcard_front_DSP Buy Link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4000


Haunted; by Brynn Stein
Blurb:

When Lenard Blake is forced to leave his wife, he divorces not just her but her influential family, who makes it impossible for him to keep his job as a Denver police officer, never mind to find another one anywhere in Colorado. But a rural police force in Virginia has an opening, and the move could be just the change he needs, so Lenard buys a house based on an Internet ad. But when he arrives, he finds that the house looks nothing like the ad… and it’s haunted as well.


Lenard doesn’t believe in the supernatural, but he decides to research his supposed ghost anyway. Soon he learns that fifteen years ago, Jason Miller was murdered in the house, and his entire family died under suspicious circumstances. As he makes friends with his ghostly companion, they join forces to try to solve the old murders. Along the way, they find there are some things that conquer even death.


Buy link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=Brynn+Stein&osCsid=7irqdganl23je1glfbeiiak7m3&x=30&y=14


Author Bio:

Brynn Stein has always been a bibliophile and a closet writer. Many years ago, she found the joys of writing fanfiction, which provided an opportunity to “come out of the closet” with her writing. She enjoyed some success writing fiction for various fandoms—even winning several awards, but noticed that she liked writing “alternate universe” stories, meaning that, except for the names and vague situations in common with the fandom she was writing for, most of the story was original. When the opportunity came along to finally publish original fiction, she grabbed it with both hands.


Brynn lives in Virginia with her two two-legged children, and four four-legged ones. Her supportive family encourages her writing and provides a sounding board for fledgling stories. When she isn’t writing, Brynn teaches children with special needs and edits other people’s manuscripts. In free time, she reads anything she can get her hands on, and haunts bookstores. She draws and paints, and enjoys the outdoors—especially if she can get to the beach—and is always thinking about her next story.


Social Media:

Brynn’s Twitter page: https://twitter.com/BrynnStein


Brynn’s Blog:  BrynnStein2@wordpress.com


Brynn’s Dreamspinner page: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/index.php?cPath=887


BetterThanGood-Hayes_headerbanner


Better Than Good: by Lane Hayes
BetterThanGood-Hayes_postcard_front_DSP Blurb:

Matt Sullivan understands labels: law student, athlete, heterosexual. He has goals: graduate and begin his career in law. One fateful night, Matt tags along with his gay roommate to a dance club and everything changes. Matt finds himself attracted to the most beautiful man he’s ever seen. All labels go flying out the window.


Aaron Mendez doesn’t believe in labels, and he’s leery of straight curious men.  He makes it clear that he’ll hide his fabulous light for no one. While Aaron can’t deny the attraction between him and Matt, he is reluctant to start anything with someone who is still dealing with what this new label means—especially when that someone has a girlfriend.


About the Author 

Lane Hayes is a designer by trade, but is first and foremost a lover of the written word.  An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels.  She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story.  Lane discovered the M/M genre a few years ago and was instantly hooked. She loves to travel and wishes she could do it more often.  Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband, three teenage kids and Rex, the coolest yellow lab ever.


Finder Her:  

New Facebook page! www.facebook.com/lane-hayes  (It’s brand new… like her please!)


She is working on a webpage and blog presence.


Email:  lanehayes@ymail.com



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Published on July 07, 2013 21:01

July 3, 2013

Author Profile Lane Hayes

So I took a week off last week, but am back with a bit of a spring in my step.  Today’s guest is someone about to release her first book next week. Lane Hayes. Lane’s new book - Better Than Good is set in my corner of the universe – Washington, DC, so I’m sure it’ll be great. Lane’s just starting out so please leave comments to encourage her along the way. From what little I’ve seen – and the book isn’t out until Monday July 8th, this looks like a great read. So with that -
Author Profile: Lane Hayes
BetterThanGood-Hayes_headerbanner
1) Tell us about yourself – How long have you been writing? And do you write in any other genres besides m/m?

“Better Than Good” is my first novel.  I am a new author but I must admit reading is my number one passion.  I love books!  I grew up with an appreciation of classics, but found myself consistently drawn to romantic story lines.  To me there is nothing more beautiful than a well-written love story. 


I fell into the M/M genre accidentally.  I think I googled it and was surprised to find a vibrant exciting community of authors writing some fantastic stories with same sex characters.  I have been hooked ever since.  My only gripe was there didn’t seem to be enough, which is how I ended up challenging myself to write one.  My oldest son is gay, so I have a particular interest in the positive portrayal of gay relationships.   We’ve come so far in the fight for equality but there is still a very long way to go.  I’ll step off my soapbox now…


2) Better Than Good – Where did the inspiration for his character come from?

Matt and Aaron, my main characters in “Better Than Good” have been living in my head for a while now.  Aaron is my favorite character probably because of his joie de vie.  I love his exuberance and how self-assured he is.  I met a beautiful, and I mean stop and take a second or third look beautiful, young man who was working as an assistant at a food tasting event I went to.  He is the physical inspiration for Aaron.  I don’t know the guy at all and never met him again, but it was hysterical to see how many grown married women could not take their eyes off of him (myself included).  A second inspiration for him is Angel, the drag queen from Rent.  Angel is such a wonderful character… a voice of hope and life.  I feel Aaron is the same way for Matt.  Matt is an “every man” character.  I think most of us can identify with him because although he knows what he wants and his path in life, his journey isn’t the simple one he thought it would be. 


3) One of your main character’s is a law student, is this based on anyone’s – yourself included – experience?

There are no lawyers in my family… yet.  Matt is a law student at a very prestigious university, however, it is one of those quirky instances where the character tells the author how it is.  Or is that only me hearing voices?


4) Tell us something interesting that’s not in the blurb.
Dupont Circle, Washington, DC

Dupont Circle, Washington, DC


Something interesting that isn’t in the blurb… hmm.  “Better Than Good” deals quite a bit with issues of stereotyping and labeling.  We live in a fast food society where a label makes life easier, faster and more consumable.  Real people aren’t so easily packaged however.  Aaron is a young Latino Catholic gay man who by the very nature of being born gay has learned from an early age how to not just survive but be comfortable with who he is in a sometimes hostile environment.  Matt had always identified as a heterosexual male.  He is an all-American former jock who has to come to terms with an attraction he can’t ignore.  He has to throw away his labels and learn to accept himself so he ultimately can have what he wants… Aaron. 


5) This was your first published book – talk a bit about what it felt like when they accepted your manuscript.

Having my first manuscript accepted was an amazing feeling. Very surreal.  Because this is new in every way to me, I’ve had no idea what to expect.  Everyone has been so gracious and encouraging at Dreamspinner.


6) The process of working with an editor, cover artist etc is vastly different from a beta reader or someone who ‘edit’s for you.’ How did you find the process?

Working with the art director was a breeze.  We zeroed in on what I envisioned early on and he delivered in spades.  My editor was equally cool.  She was supportive and kind in her suggestions.  It really was a somewhat painless process. 


7) What’s your favorite part of the writing process?

My favorite part of writing is when I get in a zone.  I love conversations between characters and have the most fun putting life into a story through verbal interaction.


8) What’s your least favorite?

My least favorite part of writing is when I get stuck.  I have literally sat in front of my computer for a couple of hours working on one sentence before I finally clue in that nothing worthwhile will come that day.  It’s best to walk away and try again later!


9) Tell us about you’re working on next?

Right now I’m working on my third novel.  It’s in its early stages so I’m reluctant to share too much about it.  However, I do have a second novel, which is Jay and Peter’s story, who are Aaron’s best friend and his partner respectively.  They’re featured in Better Than Good, and their story is actually a prequel to Matt and Aaron’s.


10) What have you read lately that most people haven’t read but should?
Matt lives in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC

Matt lives in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC



I’ve been writing more than reading lately!  The last book I read was “Fear, Hope and Bread Pudding” by Marie Sexton.  It was sweet.


11) If you could meet any writer, alive or dead, who would it be and why?

I really could go on and on about authors I’d love to meet.  I’m a big fan of Josh Lanyon.  I’d love to meet him.  I’m also a huge Anne Rice fan.  I couldn’t get enough of her vampire Lestat back in the day (now that’s a real vampire!). And I would be remiss if I didn’t mention Jane Austen, Edith Wharton and F. Scott Fitzgerald.  Pride and Prejudice, House of Mirth and Tender is the Night are three of my all time favorite book.  I’ll stop now, but I could keep going…


12) What’s a fun – non-writing – day for you?

A non-writing day would be spent reading.  J


13) Besides reading and writing, what else do you enjoy?

I love to travel.  If time and expense weren’t considerations, I’d love to spend time exploring the world.   I also enjoy spending time with my family.  I’m very lucky to have three very fabulous kids and an amazing supportive husband.  


14) Last question is all yours – feel free to talk about anything you want your readers to know about you, your book, anything at all.

I’m a designer also. When I describe a room in my books, I tend to give a lot of detail to colors and perspective.  I think the overall visual of a story’s setting is important.  It’s something I personally love as a reader.


Thanks for being my guest, now it’s time to plug your work -

Thank you for having me! 


Better Than Good
Available Monday, July 8th
Pre-order Link: Dreamspinner Press
BetterThanGood-Hayes_postcard_front_DSP Blurb:

Matt Sullivan understands labels: law student, athlete, heterosexual. He has goals: graduate and begin his career in law. One fateful night, Matt tags along with his gay roommate to a dance club and everything changes. Matt finds himself attracted to the most beautiful man he’s ever seen. All labels go flying out the window.


Aaron Mendez doesn’t believe in labels, and he’s leery of straight curious men.  He makes it clear that he’ll hide his fabulous light for no one. While Aaron can’t deny the attraction between him and Matt, he is reluctant to start anything with someone who is still dealing with what this new label means—especially when that someone has a girlfriend.


Excerpt:

By the time I took him back to his place, it was three a.m.  The usually busy streets were virtually empty.  A fine layer of fog from the river painted the low lying shrubs and sidewalks in front of his building.   It looked a little mystic and magical as though the early morning hour still held promise.  I pulled close to the curb, set the car in park and turned toward my companion.  I didn’t want to say goodbye, yet I didn’t know where this thing between us could go.  I felt that familiar wave of frustration. 


“Can I walk you up?  I mean it.  I just want to be sure you’re safe.”  It sounded like a lame request, but Aaron seemed pleasantly surprised.


“You are a gentleman, aren’t you?”  His eyes twinkled.   “I won’t say no and I’ll try to keep my hands to myself.  There’s a parking spot up there.  Take it so you don’t get a ticket.” 


I parked the car as instructed and met Aaron at the curb.  His smile lit his entire face.  God, he was beautiful.    He took my arm when I reached his side.  I didn’t protest, though the gesture seemed overly familiar.  It just felt amazing to have this beautiful creature at my side looking at me like I was some kind of hero for offering to walk him to his door.


There was a bright lantern light on above the old glass and iron front door.  Aaron couldn’t get the latch to catch, so I took the key from him and gave it a try. 


“It sticks sometimes.”  He muttered under his breath.


It opened easily for me.  I was beginning to think my levels of chivalry were being tested.  The thought made me grin when I should have been annoyed.


“You’re my hero!” he whispered loudly. 


“Knock it off.  Where is your place?”


“Uh oh, Matty’s getting mad.  Watch out kids.”  Aaron pointed to the elevator off to the right.   The corridor was not as well lit as the front alcove had been.  I was actually glad that I was making sure he was safe.  I was a little nervous myself.  Which must have shown on my face, because Aaron laughed out right as the elevator doors opened.


“Relax, sweetie.  This isn’t the Bates Motel.  It’s just an old building.  Supposedly historic, but really it just means the lighting is poor and the water pressure is worse.  My apartment is cute though.  Come see.  You’re safe.” 


I rolled my eyes this time, but gamely followed him.


His apartment was on the fifth floor.  He led me down another long hallway and stopped in front of #5E. 


“Home sweet home.” He said with a flourish as he opened his door.  “Come make sure there are no boogie men and then I promise to let you go, Matty.”


Aaron turned on a light and breezed through his small entry into a larger living room.  As I followed him I took in my surroundings.  The apartment was small with an open floor plan.


I could see into his bedroom from the living area and although it was dark, I could see that the bed was neatly made.  Aaron’s entire apartment was immaculate.  And the juxtaposition of his modern tastes and the apartment’s older features, like the high ceilings and a floor heater, made for a homey and comfortable space.  It was nice, and it suited Aaron perfectly.


Aaron threw his keys in the egg shaped bright orange bowl on his small kitchen table and turned around with his arms outstretched.


“Well, it’s tiny but it’s all mine.  As long as I pay the rent, that is.”


“It’s really nice.  Suits you.”  I felt a little awkward as I stuffed my hands back in the leather jacket Aaron had returned to me earlier.


“Thanks for walking me up.  That was very gentlemanly of you.  Is that a word?  Whatever, it was sweet.”  His smile was a little shy and his bangs had fallen back into his eyes.  This time I couldn’t help myself.  I reached out to move his hair away from his eyes.  He looked up at me in surprise and my breath caught.  We stared at one another for a second more before our mouths met.


 


About the Author 

Lane Hayes is a designer by trade, but is first and foremost a lover of the written word.  An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels.  She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story.  Lane discovered the M/M genre a few years ago and was instantly hooked. She loves to travel and wishes she could do it more often.  Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband, three teenage kids and Rex, the coolest yellow lab ever.


Finder Her:  


New Facebook page! www.facebook.com/lane-hayes  (It’s brand new… like her please!)


She is working on a webpage and blog presence.


Email:  lanehayes@ymail.com


 


 


 



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Published on July 03, 2013 21:01

July 2, 2013

Mel’s Review of Purpose

This review really captured what I was hoping to achieve with the book. Reprinted with permission of the reviewer.
Purpose_postcard_front_DSP Mel’s Review
Posted on Goodreads July 2, 2013
5 Stars
Link: http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...

When I was 2/3 of the way through this book, if you had asked me what I thought of it, I would have said it was a very nicely written character driven novel. The focus was primarily on the two MCs and their developing relationship. Ryan is down on his luck; thrown out on the streets by his family because he’s gay. Gar (Will) saves Ryan from street thugs intent on robbing and killing him. Gar has never intervened in a crime in progress before… his usual gig is seeking vengeance for the dead… the innocent. Ryan captivates him; reminds him of David, his dead lover from 40 years ago… prior to the Purpose. The Purpose normally creates chaos in Gar’s mind, but somehow Ryan calms it; quiets it. Gar still feels the pull of the innocent, but the compulsion to act is gone. He struggles to determine what this means.


The story of this budding relationship, in and of itself, is a great story. Ryan feeds (and reawakens) Will’s soul… gives him back his feelings and emotions. And Will gives Ryan acceptance and a sense of belonging; something that has been taken from him when his family kicked him out. And both are trying to figure out how the Purpose fits into their lives.


Ohhh, but that’s not the end of the story. For at this point, the plot takes over… grabs you around the neck and slams you into the rollercoaster for the rest of the ride. There are twists and there are turns. First you convince yourself the story will end one way, but no it won’t end like that at all…will it?? Eh, you’ll just have to read it yourself.


Very nicely done, Andrew. This will go on my Favorites shelf.



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Published on July 02, 2013 19:33

July 1, 2013

Purpose: Review by Zipper Rippers

Purpose_postcard_front_DSP


Purpose


by Andrew Q. Gordon


M/M Supernatural/Paranormal


Dreamspinner Press


5 Stars


“This is one of the most original books I’ve ever read. I don’t think I’ve read anything quite like this before.”


“It’s a gritty, sometimes dark story, but always gripping and you keep reading wanting to know what happens next. I don’t want to say too much else in case I spoil it, but it was a wonderful, engaging read.”


Read Annette’s complete review on Zipper Rippers: Purpose: By Andrew Q. Gordon



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Published on July 01, 2013 18:00

Purpose Blog Tour Winner

Purpose_FBbanner_DSP


Congrats to Carolyn – she followed the blog tour to ever stop and Randomizer.org selected her as the winner of the $25.00 Dreamspinner Press gift credit.  Thanks to everyone who stopped by and learned a bit more about the book and me.

-AQG


Post-Release Tour Stops:

June 21 – Charlie Cochet:


June 21 - Slashsessed:


June 22 – SJD Peterson:


June 23 – J.P. Barnaby:


June 24 - Rick R. Reed:


June 25 – Joyfully Jay:  


June 29 – Zipper Rippers:



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Published on July 01, 2013 07:21

June 30, 2013

New Releases: Monday July 1, 2013

All authors face the same daunting task – how to get their book noticed. In an effort to help some of my fellow authors, every Monday I’m going to post some of the numerous new books that have been released. For the most part these will be M/M Fiction with a heavy bias on Romance. That will probably evolve over time, but for now that’s were it is.


I’ve not read everything that is listed, though I’ve probably read or will read many. Which means inclusion on the list isn’t an endorsement or suggestion. You should read the blurbs provided to see if you’re interested. I’ll post reviews to books I recommend under the ‘Books I Reviewed’ tab. This is just a partial list of what’s new for visitors of my site to check out. That said if you end up reading something listed here and want to comment – please do. I reserve the right, however, to delete nasty or personal comments.


If you’re an author and want to include a new release, email me your blurb, cover image, buy links and any personal links you want included. No excerpts, interviews, giveaways etc. Those are welcome, but can be discussed separately.


Only had a few requests this week, so if anyone wants to be included for next week, email and let me know.


Taboo For You: By Anyta Sunday
Blurb:

cover3_front

Sam’s freaking out. He’s 30 in three weeks. And what has he done in his twenties? It’s pretty simple math: nothing exciting at all. But hey, he has three weeks right? Maybe that’s just enough time to tick his way through a 20s Must Do List . . . 


Luke’s freaking screwed. He’s come out to his family, and his friends. Except there’s a certain someone who doesn’t know yet: his neighbor of 7 years. Who also happens to be his best friend. Who Luke needs to tell the truth, but he just . . . can’t . . . seem to . . .


Jeremy’s freaking over-the-moon. It’s the countdown to his 15th birthday, and his goal is simple. No matter what, he’s going to spend heaps of time with saucy Suzy. But first he needs to get his over-protective, no-girlfriend-’cause-you’ll-get-her-pregnant parents off his back. And what better way than pretending he’s gay?


Sam, Luke, and Jeremy. Three guys who have a lot of history together, and a lot of future too—


—well, if they can sort out their issues, that is.


 



 
Buy Link(s): 
 
http://goo.gl/anOOF
 
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/331094

Contact Anyta:


www.anytasunday.com

ChildrenoftheKnight-Bowler_headerbanner



Children Of The Knight: By Michael J. Bowler
Blurb:

Children of the Knight Hi Res CoverAccording to legend, King Arthur is supposed to return when Britain needs him most. So why does a man claiming to be the once and future king suddenly appear in Los Angeles?


This charismatic young Arthur creates a new Camelot within the City of Angels to lead a crusade of unwanted kids against an adult society that discards and ignores them. Under his banner of equality, every needy child is welcome, regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, or gang affiliation.


With the help of his amazing First Knight, homeless fourteen-year-old Lance, Arthur transforms this ragtag band of rejected children and teens into a well-trained army—the Children of the Knight. Through his intervention, they win the hearts and minds of the populace at large, and gain a truer understanding of themselves and their worth to society. But seeking more rights for kids pits Arthur and the children squarely against the rich, the influential, and the self-satisfied politicians who want nothing more than to maintain the status quo.


Can right truly overcome might? Arthur’s hopeful young knights are about to find out, and the City of Angels will never be the same.


Buy Link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3900&cPath=816_817



About The Author:

Michael J. Bowler is an award-winning author of three novels––A Boy and His Dragon, A Matter of Time, and Children of the Knight––who grew up in San Rafael, California.

He majored in English and Theatre at Santa Clara University and earned a master’s in film production from Loyola Marymount and another master’s in Special Education from Cal State Dominguez Hills.


He partnered with two friends as producer, writer, and/or director on several ultra-low-budget horror films including “Fatal Images,” “Club Dead,” and “Things II.” These films are often unintentionally funny, but the reviews are intentionally snarky and hilarious. Checking out the reviews is much more fun than watching the movies.


He taught high school in Hawthorne, California for a number of years, both general education and to students with learning disabilities in subjects ranging from qualified areas like English and Strength Training to he-doesn’t-know-what-he’s-doing-but-was-forced-to-teach-these-subjects-anyway areas like Algebra and Biology. (Oh, well, he and the students had fun, anyway.)


He has also been a volunteer Big Brother to seven different boys with the Catholic Big Brothers Big Sisters program and a long-time volunteer within the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles.  He is a passionate advocate for the fair treatment of children and teens in California, something that is sorely lacking in this state. Sadly, he knows far too many youth in prison. While some people tour the California Mission system on their summer vacations, he often tours the California prison system visiting these throwaway kids, reminding them they are not and never will be forgotten.


He has been honored as Probation Volunteer of the Year, YMCA Volunteer of the Year, California Big Brother of the Year, and National Big Brother of the Year. The “National” honor allowed he and three of his Little Brothers to visit the White House and meet the president in the Oval Office.


He has already completed the sequel to Children of the Knight and is hard at work on the third volume in the trilogy.



Email: StuntShark2.0@gmail.com


Website: www.michaeljbowler.com


FB: michaeljbowlerauthor


Twitter: @BradleyWallaceM






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Published on June 30, 2013 21:01

Chatting Today – June 30 – On Dreamspinner Press’s FB Page 4-7 pm EDT



Today is the last stop on the Purpose promo tour – yes, I hear the universal sigh of relief with that announcement.  I’ll be chatting on Dreamspinner Press’s Facebook page from 4:00-7:00 p.m EDT.  Here’s the link:


Purpose_headerbanner


https://www.facebook.com/events/464140513676922/


If you get a chance please come. I’ll be giving away an eBook Copy of Purpose – or if you’ve bought it already, you can have a copy of (Un)Masked or The Last Grand Master – if you own all three – we’ll talk.  To enter, just ask me a question about the new release.


Hope to see you there.


 


 


 



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Published on June 30, 2013 05:40

June 29, 2013

Guest Blogs and New Release Promotion

Now that Purpose has been released and the promo blitz is basically over, I’m turning my focus back onto other things.


Two things I was/am doing on my site are geared toward helping other authors promote their books. You can scan through the posts under the “Blog” & “New Releases” tabs for examples.


Mondays – I have been posting new releases – basically cover, blurb, buy link at a minimum, but author bio, social media and if the book is out more than a week, reviews if the author wants to include them. Anyone with a new release can have it posted – pending releases will go up the week they come out, already released books – well I’m flexible on how new is new so if you’re in doubt – email me, chances are it’s fine. Whether you’re working with a publisher or are self published, all are welcome.


Thursdays – I do author profiles/spotlights. These tend to be more general – “hi, I’m so and so” – and not necessarily book specific – but they can be whatever you like, interview, guest post, random musing – whatever.


I’ll take guest posts to promote books any day but Monday, Wed and Thursday.


I should probably do a set of guidelines somewhere, but sheesh that feels like work. :P


Shoot me an email if interested. No reciprocity required. :)


Andy



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Published on June 29, 2013 14:57

June 28, 2013

Purpose

Reblogged from Live Your Life, Buy The Book:

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Title : Purpose


Author : Andrew Q. Gordon



Publisher : Dreamspinner Press (BUY IT HERE)


Genre : M/M, Paranormal


Length : 270 pages (e-book)


Published : June 21, 2013




Blurb :


Forty years ago the Spirit of Vengeance—a Purpose—took William Morgan as its host, demanding he avenge the innocent by killing the guilty. Since then, Will has retreated behind Gar, a facade he uses to avoid dealing with what he’s become.


Read more… 518 more words


Nice review for the new book.
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Published on June 28, 2013 07:52

June 25, 2013

Wednesday Briefs – Second Shot – The Senior Year – 15

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Soccer Background Cover 3.2 Titled copy“We won’t get to you today, Peter.” Mary Alberts said. “Why don’t you all go home? You need to be back at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow.”


Jason snuck a glance at Peter sitting to his right. He didn’t need to speak for Jason to know he didn’t like the news.


“Do you or Danny need to speak to the boys?” Raymond Henry asked.


Jason couldn’t hold back a smirk. Only Pop could call Daniel Humber ‘Danny’ and get away with it. Well almost. The assistant D.A. raised an eyebrow.


“I’m sorry, Mr. Henry, are you referring to Mr. Humber?”


“Forgive me, Ms. Alberts.” Raymond nodded, a twinkle in his eye. “Yes, I meant Daniel Humber. Danny and I have been friends for forty years. Old habits are hard to break.”


“Um….” The young assistant D.A. must have suddenly realized who she was talking to. Jason didn’t know all the particulars, but his grandfather made a significant donation to the county prosecutor’s general fund to help pay for the trial efforts.  “No sir, we…Mr. Humber and I won’t need to see anyone until tomorrow. The best thing for Peter, and Jason since he might be testifying tomorrow as well, would be for them to go home, relax and go to bed early.  We’ve prepped them as much as we can.”


Peter nodded but kept silent. The tightness in his lips and the rigid posture spoke for him.


“Ms. Alberts, is it for sure we’ll testify tomorrow?” Jason didn’t want to miss three days in a row of practice. He also knew Peter wouldn’t ask the question, even though he wanted to know.


“I can’t say for sure, but I expect Peter’s testimony will be over tomorrow.” She shrugged and gave him a sympathetic smile. “I know this is difficult for you all, but I can’t be more specific. Anticipating what a defense attorney will do is not an exact science. But given my knowledge of the case, yes I expect both of you will be finished tomorrow. “


“Will you give Martin our goodbyes, please?” Jason’s father motioned toward the door after he spoke.


“Of course, Mr. Tellerman.” She smiled at Jason and then Peter. “Relax guys, it will be over soon enough.”


Jason heard Peter mumble something that sounded like, ‘sure’ but he never looked up from the floor.


* * *


Pushing the plastic shelf, Jason watched the DVD slid into the player. Peter’s mood hadn’t improved and they’d yet to talk about it, so he pushed paused and grabbed the remote.


“You were quite during dinner.” He rolled onto their bed next to where Peter lay, staring at the ceiling.  Propping himself on a pair of pillows, he turned toward his boyfriend. “Wanna talk about it?”


First Peter tried to look over without turning his head. Then slowly he twisted left before a smile finally stretched his lips. “Talk about how quiet I was? Isn’t that pointless?”


Smiling back, he put a hand on Peter’s bare chest. “I was going with why you were quiet, not how quiet you were.” Gently running his fingers over the fine hairs covering the tight muscles, Jason stopped when he realized they’d not get far in the conversation if he continued.


“It’s just annoying.” Peter shook his head and turned his attention back to the white ceiling.


“Since I know you don’t mean having to eat with my family and yours, I’m going to guess you mean having to come back tomorrow.”


“Of course.” Grabbing Jason’s hand, Peter brought the joined fingers to his lips. “I like having dinner with our families. It’s always fun watching your grandfather and father jockey for the check. “


Jason laughed remembering his father’s face. “I still don’t know how Pop managed to get the bill paid before it was brought to the table.”


“Yeah, that was impressive.” When Peter rolled on his side, Jason saw the first hint that the foul mood was thawing.  “But back to today, they could’ve let us go first and not make us come back. You especially.”


“Yeah, I know, but my dad says Martin is an excellent attorney. I’m sure he had his reasons.” Jason hoped so, because missing another day of practice better be worth it.


A soft sigh escaped Peter’s lips. “I know. Mom and Erin said the same thing.”


Coming back another day only felt like half the problem. “I’ll be there for you.”


“What…?” When their eyes met, Peter’s face relaxed. “Oh yeah. I know that. It’s just….”


“Just what?” He didn’t need Pete to explain, but if it helped him feel better, Jason was ready to listen.


“I want it over so we can try to move on.” Frustration quickly gave way to something else. “I hate having it linger over our lives.”


“I know.” Jason wanted the trial to end, but he wasn’t confident it would truly bring closure. But it would be a start.  “So movie, then sleep?”


“We can watch the movie.” Peter propped up the pillows behind him and leaned back. “But I’m not promising we’ll go right to sleep when it’s over.”


Jason’s smile turned into a laugh when Peter raised his eyebrows suggestively. “Didn’t the assistant D.A. tell us to get a good night’s sleep?”


“Nope.”  Peter grabbed the remote from where it rested between them. Pointing it at the DVD player, he paused long enough to wink. “She said get to bed early. We’ve done that.  What we do now that we’re here is our business.”


Jason didn’t really want to watch the movie anyway. “Good point.”


Check Out The Briefs Of These Other Flashers:

LM Brown 


Tali Spencer


Lily Sawyer


Cia Nordwell 


MC Houle


MA Church


A.R. Von


Renee Stevens 


Julie Lynn Hayes



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Published on June 25, 2013 20:53