Andrew Q. Gordon's Blog, page 67

Guest Author: Nephylim

Today I’m happy to have Nephylim return to talk about something she’s doing that has her excited. I could tell you about it, but she’s can do it better in her own words.

Christmas in July

On July 1st I will be pleased to present a Special Edition incorporating Book I and II of the Enigma series. The Special Edition will be available for one month only and will contain original artwork as well as a brand new short story Silver’s First Christmas

Silver is a total enigma, even to me. Snatched of the street at twelve years old he was stripped of him memories and personality and re-invented as a sex slave. Renowned for his beauty and skills as an erotic dancer, he takes the underground world he inhabits by storm. Until he falls in love.

In the shady world of white slavery, love between slaves is strictly forbidden; so strictly Silver had to watch his lover beaten to death before he suffers a similar beating that leaves him close to death on the side of a motorway.

Silver is nursed back to health by a care assistant in the care home to which he is sent, but it’s not all plain sailing.

Some people have said to me that what happened to Silver just wouldn’t happen in real life. I beg to differ.

The white slave trade and sex trafficking are still a big problem throughout the world. People disappear off the streets of the UK and US every day. Organisations such as Amnesty International and anti-slavery international are fighting for greater awareness and support for victims.

Modern trafficking is a crime that often goes undetected and under reported because of its covert nature.

In the US the relevant law is contained in the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000. It defines the ‘most serious’ acts of trafficking as

Sex trafficking in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud or coercion, in which the person induced to perform such an act has not attained 18 years of age  OR
The recruitment, harbouring, transportation, provision or obtaining of a person for labor or services , through the use of force, fraud or coercion for the purpose of subjection to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery

Trafficking is not limited to one sector of society and can be rich or poor, black or white, male or female. Traffickers range from single opportunists, to small family businesses to large, multi-national concerns.

Home Office statistics state that, worldwide more than 800,000 men, women and children are trafficked every year. 77% are women and 87% are sexually exploited. Annual profits are estimated at $36 billion

In the UK the fight against trafficking is co ordinated by SOCA (Serious Organised Crime Agency) and the UK Human Trafficking Centre.

Make no mistake there are people out there who have been through experiences similar to Silver if not as extreme. Victims of trafficking are subject to horrendous treatment and often suffer just as much when rescued and released back into a society that doesn’t understand and, in some circumstances, doesn’t want to help. It’s a dirty crime to be swept under the carpet and the victims are often stigmatized for their involvement in sexual activities.

Fortunately there are many organisations, and individuals out there fight for the victims, people like River and Sam.

Excerpt

It’s dark now; dark and cold. I think I must have left the window open, because there’s a deep chill in the room and the smell of snow. Snow?

Sliding carefully out from under Silver’s arm I cross to the window and open the curtains. A cold but very bright moon shines through and lights up the room. I stare in wonder. Impulsively, I slip out of the room and, without even putting my shoes on, I open the back door and step out into the moonlight and the swirling white flakes that land on me, catching in my hair and eyelashes.

It’s beautiful. Everything’s clean and fresh and new and…I look around quickly, taking in the garden, the street beyond. It was all the same, but so different. The blanket of snow made everything different. The whole world is magical, beautiful, enhanced. It hits me like a brick. This is Silver. He’s different—on the outside he’s different. The way he dresses, the way he looks, even the way he thinks…but that’s just snow. Underneath, everything’s just the same as it always was.

The rose bushes are beautiful, glittering with crystals, white and sparkling like diamond. But they’re not as beautiful as when they’re blushing pink, their petals swollen by the attention of bees. The lawn is an expanse of soft whiteness, but when we walk across it there’ll be holes and, in a few days it will melt and disappear…but the grass will always be there and the snow could never smell like cut grass on a warm day. It was different but it was all…still…there.

“What is it?”

Silver is always so silent. As usual, I jump. If I’d been holding a coffee cup I’d have dropped it. He wraps his arms around me and I lean back into him, with a sigh.

“It’s snowing.”

“It’s beautiful. Have I seen snow before?” He asks thoughtfully.

“I don’t know. I expect so.”

“I don’t remember. I like it.”

“It’s water, frozen mist.”

Silver holds out his hand and watches the fat white snowflakes land on his palm. He laughs and the sound of that laugh, that sweet, unrestrained laugh melts the very last of the ice around my heart. In this moment I’m happy, as happy as I’ve ever been. I’m his and he’s mine and there’s nothing…nothing else that matters. Well almost….

I smile at the sound of heavy footsteps, running down the stairs behind us.

“River. Silver. It’s snowing. Have you seen the snow?”

“Yes, come and see it,” Silver calls. “It’s beautiful isn’t it?”

“I love it, I love it, I love it.” Ben sings, and we both wrap him in our arms, clinging together to keep warm.

Suddenly Silver laughs, as if he’s been trying to hold something inside that won’t be held any longer and then…then he dances. Under the cold blue moon, with the swirling snowflakes and air so cold it crystallises our breath, he dances. Like a snow angel, red and black with wings on his feet, he dances. My Silver…dances.

Links

https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/redhaircrow

http://theredhairedcrow.wordpress.com/

nephylim-author.blogspot.co.uk

In each of the five blogs that will be helping me spread the word I have asked a question. If anyone answers all five questions I will put you in a draw and the winner will get a free copy of the special edition and a signed poster of my darling Silver.

The question for this blog is: What’s the UK Home Office’s estimate of the number of men women and children subject to human trafficking each year?
You can find all the question by clicking the links below and reading Nephy’s posts on these other sites:

3/6 Cia  http://ciasstories.blogspot.com/

Question:  What’s Silver’s favourite sensation?

4/6 MA Church  http://machurch00.blogspot.com/

Question:  How did River’s parents die?

7/6 Talismania http://talismania-brilliantdisguise.blogspot.co.uk/

Question: What’s Silver’s favourite scent?

8/6 Christ T Kat http://t.co/h6Kn4uYhRV

Question: What River’s brother’s name?

Wednesday Briefs: Second Shot – The Senior Year – 12

Jason rubbed the towel over his head a last time before he wrapped it around his waist. As he ran the comb through his blond hair, he decided he needed to get it cut. With shorter hair he wouldn’t need to shower a second time at home to get all the mud out.

Peter looked up from his book, still leaning against the pillows where Jason left him. A smile–almost a smirk–curled his lips.

“Feel better?”

“A bit, but still can’t figure out what was up Matt’s ass today.” He dropped the towel and stepped into his boxers. “It doesn’t make any sense.”

Peter swung his legs over the end of the queen-sized mattress and hooked the waistband of Jason’s underwear. “Why’d you do that? I’ll just need to take them off you.”

Despite the change in subject, Jason smiled back. “I prefer it that way.”

Letting go after a half tug, Peter gave him a wink. “Yes, I know. But you can’t always get what you want.”

“In this case I can.” Jason adjusted the blue and white cotton shorts and pulled a t-shirt from his drawer. “But what should I do about Matt? He can’t keep doing that. He’ll hurt Blake and get kicked off the team and probably out of school too.”

“Have you talked to him yet?”

He nodded, then walked around the bed. “Tried, but he left before practice was over.” Before Jason made it to the other side, Peter sank back down into his pillows.

“I assume you tried to call him.” Peter patted the mattress by his leg, invitingly.

“Called, texted, emailed.” He shrugged and scooted across the bedspread. A quick flip onto his back and Jason rested his head on Peter’s lap. After staring at the ceiling for a few seconds, he closed his eyes. “Guess he doesn’t want to talk about it right now.”

“Didn’t you say he wanted to talk?” Peter lazily ran a hand across Jason’s chest and stomach.

Peter’s fingers felt soothing and a touch erotic as they traced meaningless patterns across Jason’s torso. Enjoying the feeling, Jason closed his eyes and rolled his neck.

“Do you know how good that feels?”

Without missing a stroke, Peter said, “Looking at your face, I’ve a good idea.”

“It probably doesn’t show how much I like this.” He let the sensation continue a moment more.  “And yes, Matt said he wanted to talk, but he doesn’t act like it. “

Peter stayed quiet, but after a time his hand came to a rest. “Maybe he just needs some space to think before he speaks to you. That seems normal given the circumstances.”

“What do you mean, circumstances?”

“Well…I mean he’s upset.”

Twisting, Jason turned until he stared at Peter. “No, that’s not what you meant. Tell me what you really think.”

Rather than answer, Peter stared at the closed bedroom door. His comment sounded so certain that Jason knew he thought more about this than he’d said. “Seriously, tell me what you meant.”

“It’s just…I mean…Don’t you think it’s a bit weird how he flipped out?”

“Of course.” He’d been thinking about it ever since it happened. “The question is why.”

Shifting his weight to get more comfortable, Jason kept his gaze on Peter. Clearly his boyfriend had some theory on what happened, but he seemed hesitant to share. The indecision reflected on his Peter’s face soon turned into a look Jason knew very well. When Peter turned toward Jason, he’d made a decision.

“I think he’s not happy having another gay teammate.” He shrugged, almost defensively. “Which is surprising given that Matt always seemed really comfortable around us, even when I couldn’t resist kissing you.”

“No.” He shook his head. “I’m sure it’s not that.” Matt is a hot head and a bit black and white in his thinking, but not a homophobe.

Peter sat up, tucking one leg under the other. “How can you be sure? I mean from what you’ve said, it started on Saturday when he saw Blake with Ethan. Not hard to figure out what was up with them being together.”

“Right, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t like gay people.” Whatever the issue, Jason knew it couldn’t be that.

“So is he a closet case too? Like Blake?”

Now Pete was reaching. “Definitely not. And before you ask, I’ll tell you why not. Matt and I have talked any number of times about this. His acceptance of me was the real him. He just doesn’t see it as an issue – people being gay that is – let alone a problem.”

“It has to be something. Has he ever gotten mad at Blake before? Mad enough to try to hurt him?”

“I’ve never seen Matt mad like that at anyone on the team.” The answer triggered an image that cleared Jason’s thinking.  “I think I know.”

“Know what?” The hint of annoyance in Peter’s voice made Jason realize what’d he done.

“Sorry, I meant I think I know why he’s so mad….”

The doorbell rang, cutting off Jason’s answer.

“I’ll get it.” Peter swung his legs over the bed and twisted back. “Get dressed. If the bible thumpers are back, I want some help this time.”

Jason flashed him a big smile. “But you handled them so well. Why drag me into this?”

“Just get dressed and come down, please?”

“How can I resist you when you beg?”

Peter squinted, his jaw slightly tight. “If you’re not careful, you’ll be begging later on.” Holding the glare for an instant longer, Peter winked and disappeared out the door.

Scanning the room, Jason spied a pair of blue Graydon soccer shorts on a stack of clean clothes. Putting them on, he decided not to tempt fate and followed Peter. He heard the front door close just as he reached the head of the stairs.

“Who was it?” When he hit the last step, Jason stopped.

“Hey Jase.” Matt said. “Is now a good time?”

Be Sure To Checkout The Briefs Of These Other Flashers:

BL Morticia

Elyzabeth VaLey

MA Church 

Nephylim

Lily Sawyer

Cia Nordwell

Andrew Gordon

Renee Stevens

Julie Lynn Hayes

Victoria Adams

Guest Post: M.A. Church’s, The Yellow Rope.

M.A. Church is my guest today serving up an excerpt from her new book – The Yellow Rope.

The Yellow Rope
Blurb:

A cranky submissive…

Luke Walker is tired. He spends long hours between his job as a teacher assistant at an elementary school and helping out his family at their restaurant. Coupled with the fact that his degree is going to waste, he’s discouraged and fatigued by too much work and endless southern heat, and not enough time spent with his live-in partner.

An understanding Dom…

Gage Holt has been on both sides of the fence. He believes that in order to be a good Dom, one has to understand being a sub. Unfortunately, he’s had some bad experiences in pursuit of that knowledge, and suffered a great deal. But that’s in the past now.

A long weekend…

Three little days… Gage is determined to see that his man gets what he needs in every way he can give it to him. Anything to remove the dark circles from beneath his beautiful eyes. For the next seventy-two hours, he’s going to pamper his boy—in his way. He’ll fight a bull that hates him, battle with a crusty old woman at a gift shop who snubs him, and deal with the never-ending lack of money just to bring the shine back to Luke’s eyes.

Luke will relax and have some fun, even if Gage has to tie him to whatever flat surface happens to be handy.

Buy Link:

http://www.extasybooks.com/the-yellow-rope/

Excerpt:

“Told you to mind those hands,” Gage whispered gleefully in Luke’s ear.

“Dammit, what did you expect?” Luke shuddered at the deep, sinful promise and the warm breath that tickled his ear.

“Oh, just that.” Gage smiled at the lapse, but didn’t call Luke on it. He pulled a length of yellow rope from his jean pocket and dangled it in front of Luke’s face.

“God, you did that on purpose, Sir. You knew I wouldn’t be able to help myself.”

“Yeah, babe, I did know. Now stand up, with your hands behind your back.” Gage wrapped the rope around Luke’s wrists, making sure not to tie it too tight. He planned for those wrists to be tied for most the night.

Gage held Luke tightly against his chest. When he felt Luke’s body relax, he smiled. He held Luke close, Luke’s head resting against his shoulder. Gage ran his hands up and down Luke’s arms, letting his touch speak for him. God, he missed Luke, even though he saw him every day. He missed this.

Lately, life had gotten in the way, the daily fight to survive life had taken its toll on them, and Gage mentally promised himself that he wouldn’t allow them to drift apart again, no matter how busy their life became with family or their jobs. He’d take better care of his boy from now on.

He thrust his hips, knowing Luke could feel his erection poking him in the back—a promise of what was to come. He eased his hand down to the waistband of Luke’s night pants, releasing his shaft and balls. Gage wished Luke could see what he looked like. So sexy in his submission. Luke was nearly naked and helpless while he was still dressed.

“Perfect,” Gage said. “I see you wore the cock ring, like I said.”

“Yes, Sir.” Luke bit his lip as Gage rubbed his thumb over the head of his prick. “But it’s not going to keep me from coming for long. Especially if you keep that up! It’s been too long.”

So, Gage did it again, dragging a whimper from Luke. “You know what’ll happen if you come before I say.”

Author bio:

M.A. Church

M.A. Church lives in the southern United States and spent many years in the elementary education sector. She is married to her high school sweetheart and they have two children. Her hobbies are gardening, walking, attending flea markets, watching professional football, racing, and spending time with her family on the lake.

But her most beloved hobby is reading. From an early age, she can remember hunting for books at the library. Later nonhuman and science fiction genres captured her attention and drew her into the worlds the authors had created. But always at the back of her mind was the thought that one day, when the kids were older and she had more time, she would write a book.

By sheer chance she stumbled across a gay male romance story on the web and was hooked. A new world opened up and she fell in love. Thus the journey started. When not writing or researching, she enjoys reading the latest erotic and mainstream romance novels.

My links:

Blog http://machurch00.blogspot.com

Twitter @nomoretears00

Facebook: M.A. Church http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Chur…;

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5141393.M_A_Church

New Releases: Monday June 3, 2013

In an effort to help some of my fellow authors, every Monday I 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 where 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.

The Boy Who Came In From The Cold: B.G. Thomas
Blurb
Todd Burton has had enough of small-town Buckman. His abusive stepfather calls him a fag; his friend Austin makes him realize he may be gay, but Todd doesn’t want to admit his stepfather is right; and he dreams of being a chef. Three good reasons to flee his hometown and pursue greener pastures. But when Todd reaches the big city, his luck runs dry. Soon he can’t pay his rent and gets evicted. In the middle of a snowstorm.

Gabe Richards is a wealthy businessman with enough wounds of his own to make him afraid of ever being intimate again. But when he sees Todd outside his building, freezing to death, he takes pity on him and takes him in from the cold.

To their mutual surprise, Todd and Gabe find themselves drawn to each other. “One night” turns into a week. Maybe letting a man in from the cold can melt the ice around Gabe’s heart—and maybe getting evicted will turn Todd’s luck around.

Buy Link
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/advanced_search_result.php?keywords=the+boy+who+came&osCsid=bslvjanutsttlt2d695ao14146&x=47&y=16

About the Author:
B.G. Thomas lives in Kansas City with his husband of more than a decade and their fabulous little dog. He is lucky enough to have a lovely daughter as well as many extraordinary friends. He has a great passion for life.B.G. loves romance, comedies, fantasy, science fiction and even horror—as far as he is concerned, as long as the stories are character driven and entertaining, it doesn’t matter the genre. He has gone to literature conventions his entire adult life where he’s been lucky enough to meet many of his favorite writers. He has made up stories since he was child; it is where he finds his joy.In the nineties, he wrote for gay magazines but stopped because the editors wanted all sex without plot. “The sex is never as important as the characters,” he says. “Who cares what they are doing if we don’t care about them?” Excited about the growing male/male romance market, he began writing again. Gay men are what he knows best, after all—since he grew out of being a “practicing” homosexual long ago. He submitted a story and was thrilled when it was accepted in four days.”Leap, and the net will appear” is his personal philosophy and his message to all. “It is never too late,” he states. “Pursue your dreams. They will come true!”
Find B.G. Thomas at:

BG’s Website: http://bgthomas.t83.net

BG’s Live Journal: http://bg-thomas.livejournal.com/

BG’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bgthomaswriter

Twitter: @BGThomasBooks

Or to email BG directly: bgthomaswriter@aol.com

Learning To Love: Josh & Chris: K.C. Wells

When Chris Andrews gave evidence against the men who manipulated him into taking part in a homophobic assault, Josh Saunders was his rock, and his support gave Chris the courage to come out. Now that Chris finds himself sharing a house with Josh, he wonders where that strong, sexy guy has disappeared to, because Chris wants him back—but he can’t wait forever.

Josh has been attracted to Chris from the get-go, and the more time they spend together, the stronger the pull grows. But he needs to make sure Chris feels the same attraction, and not just gratitude. Josh bides his time, waiting for the right moment… and misses his chance when Chris starts seeing someone else.

Somehow Josh has to convince Chris they are perfect together. But first, he needs to figure out who has been sending Chris malicious letters, threatening him over the phone, and writing hateful slogans across their front door—and persuade his own ex, who seems determined to win Josh back, to get lost. In fact, Josh’s life may depend on it.

Buy Link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3821

About The Author:

Born and raised in the north-west of England, K.C.Wells always loved writing. Words were important. Full stop. However, when childhood gave way to adulthood, the writing ceased, as life got in the way.

K.C. discovered erotic fiction in 2009, where the purchase of a ménage storyline led to the startling discovery that reading about men in love was damn hot. In 2012, arriving at a really low point in life led to the desperate need to do something creative. An even bigger discovery waited in the wings – writing about men in love was even hotter…

The laptop still has no idea of what hit it… it only knows that it wants a rest, please.

K.C. can be reached:

Email (k.c.wells@btinternet.com)

Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld)

Or comment on the K.C.Wells website (www.kcwellsworld.com )

K.C. loves to hear from readers.

The Yellow Rope: M.A. Church
Blurb:

A cranky submissive…

Luke Walker is tired. He spends long hours between his job as a teacher assistant at an elementary school and helping out his family at their restaurant. Coupled with the fact his degree is going to waste, he’s discouraged and fatigued by too much work and endless southern heat, and not enough time spent with his live-in partner.

An understanding Dom…

Gage Holt has been on both sides of the fence. He believes that in order to be a good Dom, one has to understand being a sub. Unfortunately, he’s had some bad experiences in pursuit of that knowledge and suffered a great deal. But that’s in the past now.

A long weekend…

Three little days…Gage is determined to see that his man gets what he needs in every way he can give it to him. For the next seventy-two hours, he’s going to pamper his boy—in his way.

Buy Link:

http://www.extasybooks.com/the-yellow-rope/

About The Author:

M.A. Church

M.A. Church lives in the southern United States and spent many years in the elementary education sector. She is married to her high school sweetheart and they have two children. Her hobbies are gardening, walking, attending flea markets, watching professional football, racing, and spending time with her family on the lake.

But her most beloved hobby is reading. From an early age, she can remember hunting for books at the library. Later nonhuman and science fiction genres captured her attention and drew her into the worlds the authors had created. But always at the back of her mind was the thought that one day, when the kids were older and she had more time, she would write a book.

By sheer chance she stumbled across a gay male romance story on the web and was hooked. A new world opened up and she fell in love. Thus the journey started. When not writing or researching, she enjoys reading the latest erotic and mainstream romance novels.

M.A. Church’s Links:

Blog http://machurch00.blogspot.com

Twitter @nomoretears00

Facebook: M.A. Church http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Chur…;

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5141393.M_A_Church

Review: Captive Heart, By Tali Spencer

There are so many things to like about this book – but perhaps the best part is that it’s part of a series. I don’t usually stay up late on work nights – especially when I have to be in court the next day, but this had me up every night until I finish. If you like fantasy, read this book.  It’s not a M/M Romance, but so what – it is a great book, read it!

Gaspar is the Emperor of Uttor, an up and coming nation that has most of the other kingdoms wary.  Sebboy is an old, powerful kingdom on the decline.  When the Prince of Sebboy kidnaps Gaspar’s beloved sister, that sets the stage for what’s about to come.  Lorant kidnaps Adora Leonnte – princess of Uttor hoping to marry her fast enough that Uttor won’t attack.  That didn’t work out so well for him or his family.  Uttor crushed Sebboy in a matter of days, making Lorant and his family prisoners of Uttor.  Fortunately the story isn’t about him or his troubles.

Julissa is a princess of Sebboy and Gaspar takes a liking to her before he realizes she is a princes.  The story revolves around the aftermath of Sebboy’s fall and the relationship between Julissa and Gaspar.

Gaspar is so perfectly written – you kinda hate him at first, though not really under the circumstances, but you see his good soul even at his ‘worst.’ Julissa was the perfect foil for him, though I have to say I think I loved Adora more – she’s just so my kinda person – I just loved her heart.

Okay so I have to say this and I’m sure Tali is going to laugh, shake her head, and call me a dork, but I was kinda turned off by the m/f sex – yeah yeah yeah – book two is more my style, but she is such a tease – the drop dead, beautiful, gay Petra and nothing . . . nothing – He’s caught in the act of having sex with a man, but WE don’t get to see THAT? We hear about the aftermath and how his family almost kills him, but that’s it. Gaspar and Julissa – yeah we get all those intimate moments, but not Petra. C’mon, what is this a m/f fantasy boo….. oh yeah it is. My bad.

Anyway, there is SO much more about this world I want to know, not just the little bit about Uttor, Sebboy, or Bannari that we’re told. The mysterious Koth Kingdoms are – well a mystery and the rest of the world is out there, but we barely get a glimpse of it. Such a broad canvas left for the author to paint. But even though this is a ‘fantasy’ series, the fantasy is merely an interesting back story to the character driven plot.  We get to see such a rich array of personality traits and they are done so well without being cliches.

As I said, one nice thing about this book is that it’s part of a series and book two Dangerous Beauty is already in print.  Books three and four, Adored and Victory Portrait, are coming soon.

A must read if you like fantasy, a definite recommendation even if you don’t.

SJD Peterson Author Profile – Give away winner

First let me thank Jo for coming by for a visit.  I always enjoy these interviews because I get to learn more about authors I like and follow.

Second, thanks to all who left Jo a comment. Everyone who did was given a number and I used Randomizer.org to select a winner.  Congratulations to Jodi, you are the winner.  Jo will be in touch with you to send you your card.

Thanks again to everyone who read and commented.

-AQG

Author Profile: SJD Peterson

Today I was able to interview one of my new favorite authors, SJD Peterson. She is the author of many different books, including her two newest Pup and Plan B. Her Whispering Pines series has received great reviews and she is hard at work on new things for us to read.  Jo was good enough to spend some time answering my questions. And when you’re done reading her answers, check out some of her works including my favorite – Plan B.

Author Profile: SJD Peterson
1)    Tell us about yourself – be as specific or vague about personal details as you feel comfortable – where do you reside, age, family, pets etc. You’ve written many books, is writing your full time job?

Ugh! I hate talking about myself but for you I shall endure. Let’s see. I don’t share a lot about my family life or my love life ect but other than that, I’m a pretty open book. I live in Michigan and while I love the changes of the season I deplore the winter. I hope this will be my last winter here. I still plan on calling Michigan home, but hoping to travel to warmer destinations while the state is blanketed in snow.  I have a degree in nursing and a second in History. The two are not related in the slightest but before I found writing I had plans to be a professional student. Writing is now my full time job and I’m loving every minute of it. I’m still not comfortable with the success that has fallen upon me as of late. Don’t’ get me wrong I appreciate it, but I’m sitting here thinking, HOLY HELL this is amazing and HOLY HELL this freaks me out. It’s about fifty/fifty. The first time someone asked me for my autograph my first reaction was – Why I don’t owe you any money- luckily I didn’t say it out loud, because that’s another thing about me most don’t know. I have no filter between my mouth and brain. I tend to be a hermit because while I can interact with people and enjoy it greatly, if I spend too much time in public it’s almost guaranteed that I’ll say something that wasn’t supposed to be said aloud and then I stress over it for weeks afterward. We all have mean, ugly, dirty thoughts; mine just seem to skip the filter and pass my lips at completely inappropriate times.

2)    How long have you been writing? And do you write in any other genres besides m/m?

My first book, Lorcan’s Desire, came out in May of 2011 I wrote it the year before and prior to that, I didn’t even read fiction. History geek remember? I’m a little embarrassed to admit but Twilight was the first fictional book I read that my college professors didn’t force upon me, but I moved quickly on to more adult themed books. I now write contemporary romance, BDSM, and paranormal but all within M/M or gay fiction.

3)    Plan B was one of my favorite books I’ve read in the last year. There were many things to like, but Danny stuck out as one of best. Where did the inspiration for his character come from??

Thank you. So glad you liked Danny and Lance’s story. Plan B was inspired by a photo and sound track that was sent to me.I get a lot of people sending me plot bunnies and usually I don’t have time to write them all. However I was totally inspired by Danny’s character. I’d gone through a stretch where every book I read in the genre, the main characters had some kind of abuse, family turned their back on them for coming out, or some other horrible back story. I wanted to write a story that was about a strong gay character who was totally proud of who and what he was and made no excuses for it. Danny has an amazing family, amazing friends and an amazing life. Although Danny cared deeply for Lance, he wasn’t about to change or give up his dreams for someone who couldn’t accept him completely.

4)    Your Whispering Pines Ranch Series has been very successful and well received. Talk about the series a bit. Which is your favorite in the series, will it continue?

The Whispering Pines Ranch Series was never meant to be a series at all. I had planned it as a single stand-alone novel, but once I reached nearly 200k and the story still wasn’t complete I made the decision to turn it into a trilogy. Lorcan’s Desire, Quinn’s Need and Ty’s Obsession is kind of like one really long novel about Lorcan and Quinn finding their way to HEA. Conner’s Courage was an addition I didn’t plan, but Conner because such a great guy I had to tell his story. CC is actually a prequel to WPR since it’s about how Conner and John met years before Lorcan and Quinn were even born. It’s also my favorite book in the series. Jess’s Journey came about because I didn’t kill him like I originally planned J  There will be no more books in this series, however. Ty who was not supposed to be anything more than a quickie in a back alley, became my favorite character. He was also the only guy who didn’t get his HEA so as a thank you to my fans I wrote a free short story called Riveted.  So, a character who was never meant to be, became the inspiration for a new series, The Guards of Folsom.

5)    Some authors feel their best selling work(s) isn’t their best. Is there a story you feel is better than its sales have suggested?  

Yes and No. I think the idea behind Masters & Boyd is for sure one of my favorites. It’s like getting to see what happens after the Happily Ever After. It’s the story of Carrick Masters and Ed Boyd who were lucky enough to get one, but life started getting in the way and Carrick forgot how lucky he’d been. It’s the story of working to keep the HEA and what is truly important in life. That being said, I don’t think it was my best executed story. I’ve learned a lot about writing and there is definitely a few changes I would make to it if I had the chance, but the essence of the story? Not a single change I’d make.

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

I just finished TAG TEAM which is the second book in the Guards of Folsom series and splitting my time working on PONY the third book in the series and Sua Sponte which is the next book in my Rough Rangers series.

7)    What is your favorite book that you’ve written and why?

WOW tough question. I love every book when I first come up with the idea, but hate them all when nearing the end. My favorite book to write was PUP. It was a lot of fun for the most part, but my favorite overall I’d have to say was Conner’s Courage.

8)    If you could meet any of your characters, who would it be?

Yeah another tough question. I’d like to meet them all for one reason or another, but if I have to choose it would be a tossup between Danny from Plan B and Micah from PUP. They are such great characters and I know there would be much laughter and shenanigans.

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

Writing, THE END

10) What’s your least favorite?

Writing THE END and blurbs. *grumbles* I hate writing blurbs and synopsis.

11) Do you ever model characters after people you know? If so in what way? Looks? Personality? Life events?

All the time. Danny is based on a young man I know. PUP aka Micah is loosely based on one of my author friends who loves the shiny, Natty and Brad from Simple are based on a real life couple, the list goes on and on.

12) What have you read lately that most people haven’t read but should?

Unfortunately I don’t have a lot of time for reading with my crazy writing schedule and pressing deadlines. But if I could only pick one, I’d say: One Breath One Bullet by S.A. McAuley. I’m not usually a fan of Sci Fi but the characters in this book Merq and Aemise are truly amazing. Like two of the best ever!! It’s now available for pre-order at Total E-bound. http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=2133

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

Umm… well…. Okay….Not even sure. How about Will Somers. While not truly a writer per se, he was King Henry VIII fool and kept detailed notes about Henry’s life. I’d love to sit and have a chat with him for sure. (Yup total unapologetic history geek)

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

Hanging out with family and or friends. Unexpected road trips are the best. A suite seat at the Joe during a Red Wings game. NOT having to go to a Tigers game on a cold rainy day in April.

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

I’m not big on movies or TV but I love the History Channel  (Big surprise there right?) New fan of the Supernatural series. Love the Red Wings. Cookies. Time with family and friends. Liquid Lunches with Sam. Gay porn. Sexy men. Hearing my BFF Scotty Cades voice after not hearing from him for a while. Art fairs. Pimp houses and fantasizing that Zane Garrett is all mine. TEAM ZANE!!

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

Totally my pleasure and thank you for having me!

Plan B
Blurb:

Danny Marshal has always lived his life out loud, but his androgynous appearance is only a small part of who he is. One night at a frat party, Danny meets Lance Lenard, football jock and apparent straight guy. Lance is shocked when he’s immediately attracted to Danny’s feminine side. Danny is happy to be the subject of Lance’s first man-on-man experiment—until Lance begins to struggle with the fact that despite his appearance, Danny is indeed a man.

Lance’s whole life has been focused on his goal of playing in the NFL, and he knows those dreams will be smashed if anyone finds out about his little secret. Although Lance has grown to crave Danny’s touch, he’s not willing to give Danny what he’s grown to crave: a boyfriend who’s proud to love him for every flamboyant and snarky cell in his body.

Life sends Danny and Lance in different directions, each of them focused on his respective Plan A. But the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.

 

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3555&cPath=55_424

 

Bio:

SJD Peterson, better known as Jo, hails from Michigan. Not the best place to live for someone who hates the cold and snow. When not reading or writing, Jo can be found close to the heater checking out NHL stats and watching the Red Wings kick a little butt. Can’t cook, misses the clothes hamper nine out of ten tries, but is handy with power tools.

You can find her at:

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SJD.Peterson

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SJDPeterson

Tumblr: http://sjdpeterson.tumblr.com/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4563849.S_J_D_Peterson

Email: sjdpeterson@gmail.com

Blog: http://sjdpeterson.blogspot.com

Dreamspinners Page:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/index.php?cPath=55_424

 

Wednesday Briefs: Second Shot – The Senior Year – 11

The tackle from behind sent Blake tumbling toward the pitch. Even before he got to his feet, he knew who’d done it.

“What the fuck was that, Matt?” Darryl stood inches from Matt. “Are you trying to take out our starting mid?

“What?” Matt glared at Blake over Darryl’s shoulder. “He’s hiding behind you now?”

“Fuck you, Hopkins.” Blake tried to lunge at his teammate, but a pair of hands pulled him back.

“What the fuck’s going on?” Jason screamed inches from Blake’s ear.

“Lemme go, Jase.”  He struggled to  break away, but the arms holding him tightened. “Asshole took my legs out from behind.”

“Whatever.” Matt’s lips twisted into a sneer. “Go cry to Jason if you can’t take it.”

“Stop it!” Darryl shoved Matt with both hands. “What’s gotten into you? That was a crap tackle and you know it. You could have hurt him and the team.”

“It was a legit tackle.” He snapped his arm in Blake’s direction. “He needs to man up.”

“No, you need to go cool off.” Darryl continued to get in his face.

“Fuck you, Minger. You’re not the coach.”

“Fine.” Darryl shrugged. “I’ll go tell coach what happened and suggest he send you off for the day.”

Blake glared at Matt’s back, hoping he stayed on the pitch. As the rest of the team had started to surround them, he stopped twisting to get away.

“What!” Matt spun around throwing both arms wide. “You’d snitch me out? For that…for him?”

Across the field, Blake saw Coach Stevens slowly started to walk over. He’d want someone to explain why his practice had stopped. Great. “Just what I need.”

“Either you go cool off because we asked or….” Jason shrugged and waited for Matt’s response.

“Jase.” Matt glanced over to where Coach Stevens had stopped.

“Just go, Matt.” Jason must have sensed Matt giving up because he tone softened. “We’ll talk later.”

“Fine. We will talk later.” Matt turned around and never looked back.

“D, can you….” Jason motioned toward their coach.

“Gotcha, you two go get a drink.” Darryl jogged off without waiting for a response.

“You okay?” The inflexion in Jason’s voice told Blake he meant more than just the tackle.

“Fine. I’ll handle it.”

Jason quickly stepped in front of him. “No. This ends now. I don’t want either of you trying to take the other out.”

“I owe him.” Vengeance wasn’t big on Blake’s list, but no way Matt got away with what he did. “He’s been sniping at me all practice. That was just the worst one.”

“I’ll talk to him later, but you guys are not going to hurt each other.” He turned toward the sideline. “The team needs you both.”

“Why is everyone standing around?” Coach Stevens’ voice boomed across the field. “Minger, did you and Tellerman give everyone a rest break already? Does anyone want to practice or am I going to see everyone doing twenty laps after practice?”

Blake tried to suppress a smile–he didn’t feel like being happy about anything–but he failed. “Are we going to get twenty laps for this?”

“Probably.” Jason wore a goofy smirk when he turned to toss Blake a water bottle. “You seem to get me in trouble the first week of practice, don’t you?”

Chugging half the icy liquid, Blake shook his head when he finished. “This is so not my fault. He’s being a total douche.”

“Any idea why?” Jason took a long pull on his bottle.

“Aside from the obvious–he’s a douche–no.” The only answer he could think of, Jason wouldn’t believe.

“None?” Raising an eyebrow, Jason put the bottle down. “You didn’t run into him during Ethan’s visit?”

“If you can ask that question, you know the answer.” Finishing his water, Blake hurled the bottle and started to go back to the field. After two steps he turned around. “And if you spoke to them, maybe they told you what’s up his ass. He kept glaring at me Friday like I’d just fucked his girlfriend or something.”

“What are you talking about?”

Lifting the end of his shirt, Blake wiped the sweat from his face. “Matt saw me with Ethan and immediately got this disgusted, angry expression.”

“Why?”

“How the fuck should I know?” He hadn’t meant to say it that loud. Looking around he noted a couple of his teammates stared in their direction. “One minute everything was fine, the next he was angry Matt. And today confirmed it.”

“Confirmed what?”

He exhaled loudly. Why was Jason being so dense? Making sure he lowered his voice he said, “That he doesn’t like the fact I’m gay.”

“Matt?” Jason turned in the direction Matt walked off. “That’s ridiculous. Matt’s always had my back.”

“Yeah, the key word being your back.” He hadn’t expected Jason to believe him. “Maybe it’s because you two were friends first? Or you were the team captain?”

“Blake, you’re friends with Matt too. How’s your situation any different?”

Were they really ever friends? Maybe not good friends, but he and Matt had hung out and everything seemed fine. “I don’t know Jase, but he was pissed then and you saw what he did today. You tell me what’s changed since Friday afternoon?”

Jason stared at the grass, not speaking. At least he considered what Blake had said.

“I don’t know.” He shook his head, finally meeting Blake’s gaze. “But we’re going to figure this out.”

“We?” Blake shook his head. “No way. If I get near him, I’m going to kick his ass. He nearly broke my ankle with that tackle.”

Before he answered, Jason poured the rest of the water over his own head. Slicking his hair back, he sprayed the area with water. “Fine, but I’m going to speak to Matt. Once I find out what’s going on, you and he will need to speak. Peacefully.”

“No promises. I owe….”

“Blake, listen to me. You go after him and you hurt him, Coach, the school, everyone, will know why it happened. They’ll kick you out.” He put his arm around Blake. “Don’t let Matt be the reason you get expelled.”

He wanted to argue that it didn’t matter, but it did. Matt wouldn’t win. Blake wouldn’t let him. “Thanks, Jase.”

“You bet.” After a quick squeeze, Jason let go. “Now let’s see if I can talk coach out giving us laps.”

Be Sure To Checkout The Briefs Of These Other Flashers:

A.R. Von

Victoria Adams

Lily Sawyer

Cia Nordwell

Nephylim

Renee Stevens

Michael Mandrake 

MA Church  

Julie Lynn Hayes

Review: Plan B: By SJD Peterson

I probably haven’t said this before, but I only review books I like. Not all the books I like, just some and only when I get the time to write them up. I probably have at least a half dozen books I want to review, so this is a good place to start.

I bought this book because I saw a good review of it and it was a top seller. [The cover is kinda hot too] It did not disappoint. For me, a character driven story is so important. I most enjoy stories where the author has breathed life into their characters, where the characters leap off the page and I feel like I’m reading about the real adventures of a real person. Peterson’s book does this.

Danny is a wonderful character. Flamboyant, out, wears make up and female clothing, yet unashamed of who and what he is. If it sounds a bit over the top – it is, yet isn’t. It’s what makes Danny who he is and the story so worth reading. Peterson starts the book with a statement – “For everyone who is deemed different. Don’t try to fit in, be you. STAND OUT!” That sums up Danny.

Lance is the MC love interest. He is the ‘I’m not gay’ jock who likes Danny.  There is an element of ‘gay for you’, but if you read the book you’ll see this isn’t the typical GFY. I’d say more but I’d ruin things. Suffice it to say that Lance’s issues are realistic and believable.

The last piece of the puzzle is Bo – Bogart Humphrey – [as an aside - how awesome is that name? Can't you just see some stupid parent's doing that to their kid?  Kinda like I once met a woman named Virginia Hamm - but the she married Mr. Hamm so she's only got herself to blame.]  Bo is the straight best friend. There is nothing romantic between these two, no hint of – if only you were gay, we’d so get it on.  Bo is Danny’s best friend, period. They understand each other and have each other’s back. But Danny is as much if not more Bo’s protector as Bo is to Danny. It’s refreshing to see the gay MC be well adjusted and confident and helping his straight best friend get through things. Not that Bo is a basket case, but Danny is a clearly the more social and confident of the two.

If you read for enjoyment like me and like books with good character development, believable situations, realistic tension and good writing, add this to your buy list. One of the really great things about the book is it doesn’t resort to the Danny gets bashed for being himself as a plot devise. The book is about an out and proud young man and the struggles he has dealing with someone he likes. It’s fresh, different, engaging and really a fun read. I think that says it all.

Ten Facts About My Love Of Books

Lizzy Baldwin from mylittlebookblog posted the original Ten Facts About My Love of Books- on Friday.  I told her she should collect the different ideas from people who follow her and did their own list. She thought it was a good idea, but then said I should do it to since it was my idea.  Yeah, me and my great ideas.

But I did say I’d do it, so here goes.

1. My favorite genre is fantasy. 

Ever since I read the Lord Of The Rings it has been my first choice.

2. Before I found fantasy books I used to read history books. 

My favorites were ancient history and those that covered the various wars.

3. I never read Playboy for the articles.

Does this really need an explanation?

4. I often read the end when I’m somewhere in the middle of the book. 

What can I say? I’m impatient.

5. I hate sports biographies.

Fiction with athletes as main characters, yes. Biographies about athletes, no.

6. The first M/M fiction book I read was The Front Runner by Patricia Nell Warren.

This might be the M/M book most people of my generation read first. For those who never read, think about it. It’s a classic.

7. I don’t enjoy sex scenes in books.

Most of the time it I find it silly and idealized, other times it seems gratuitous, and rarely do I think it advance the plot.

8. Sometime I’ll buy a book based on the cover.

Usually I regret it, but I’ve done it before and will probably do it again.

9.I do most of my reading  on the Metro

My free time at home I try to write, so while riding on the Metro is the best time for me to read.

10. I chose the wrong eReader.

I own a Nook. I thought having stores and sales staff that people could talk to gave Barnes & Noble a selling point that would help it compete against Amazon. Kinda sucks I won’t be able to read those books once Nooks disappears.