Susan Mac Nicol's Blog, page 9
October 27, 2017
Fighting Back – A Civilised Revolution
I think we can agree that we in the LGBTQ writer community are sick and tired of Facebook and its crazy algorithms that APPEAR, mind I say APPEAR, to be to the detriment of the genre with some leaning towards the dreaded h***phobia word.
It’s time to fight back. We don’t know whether it will do anything; we don’t know whether we’ll be outlawed and ostracised from Facebook. I, for one, have the cojones to say I don’t care. If Facebook doesn’t let me do my thing, I’ll find some other way. Perhaps the way authors and pimpers share and get the word out about their books could do with a shake-up. Maybe we’ll realise another way to do this or find another place to do it. We can all migrate there like little creative starlings in flight and put down roots…
What we can’t do is continue to be banned for daring to show a naked man’s torso, a slight bit of groin without the dangly (or upright bits) and certainly not two guys kissing or manhandling each other with their clothes on. Or GASP!!! A man with a morning boner.
Yes, I know Facebook’s rules. Yes, I understand their community standards. But until they apply equally to everyone on Facebook without them picking on the likes of us, I say they are skewed and until the same rules apply to all, I for one cannot take them seriously. Even our own Author Pages are not sacrosanct, the one place where we are supposed to be able to ply our trade in peace and profitability. And secret and private groups? Pah. Don’t make me laugh. They are no more sacred than anywhere else.
I’ve seen dead babies, animals horrifically injured, naked women’s t*ts, people posting photos of their dead husband, children who have been abused, shocking images of torture and war, twerking asses of said naked woman with only a thong, mostly naked females showing all sorts of nasty lower extremis bits…and nothing happens. I posted one such video recently from their gif section -and so far, no one from Facebook has said anything. Their bots haven’t picked it up because obviously, it’s acceptable.
I have a strategy and as I don’t want anyone else to have to take any heat for this, I’m going to tell you about it here via my website and find a safe place to collate the data I need to present to Facebook as a clear case of discrimination. Unfortunately, even secret, ‘I’d have to kill you if you told anyone about it,’ groups aren’t safe anymore. Facebook has invaded them and nothing is sacred.
There is no safe space.
We ’ve all talked about it, bemoaned it, grumbled to each other about it – and now I want us to DO something about it. Because talk is cheap and action at least means we have made our voice heard, expressed our opinion, even if it gets nowhere, or gets me permanently kicked off FB.
This is a civilised revolution. And I need your help.
If you have a picture that was banned, please email it to me at shanetemplar7@gmail.com. I want to keep this stuff separate so good old sexy Shane is going to be the fall guy.
I also want pictures you’ve seen that YOU think violate the Facebook rules – anything YOU find sexually or morally offensive or unsuitable. Give me some details about the picture if you have it.
I’ll gather these together, write some sort of protest, maybe even start a petition. I’ll also be getting in touch with some of the LGBT organisations and seeing if they have any muscle to support it. Anyone who wants to come on the mission with me is welcome. It might get lonely in Facebook jail 
October 15, 2017
The Being Me charity anthology is here to pre-order
I am so proud and delighted to be one of the authors taking part in this anthology. In April last year I had an idea to create a special collection of stories about what people thought about being themselves. I put out an invite to authors to take part and they climbed on board with gusto. The result of this is the book you see detailed here. All sales proceeds go directly to the charity.
16 stories by 15 talented writers to wet your reading appetite this Christmas. Stories about people who feel they are different for any reason. They are bullied, gay, transgender, straight, have weight issues, handicapped, rejected. In all these stories something sets them apart from the usual ‘societal norms’ of acceptance which leads to conflict and angst.
These stories are about people who’ve embraced their differences and own it. ALL story content is suitable for a YA audience. Stories by Louisa Mae, Maggie Chatterton, Melissa Costa, Jack L. Pyke, Jo Tannah, Lynn Michaels, Susan Mac Nicol, Lane Swift, Louis J Harris, Alex Jane, Dilo Keith, Duncan Swallow, Jane Stemp, Viva Gold and Fiona Glass.
Various characters are explored; the bullied, handicapped folk, people of colour, even an alien, and futuristic caste systems. These are stories that explore the emotional growth of troubled young men and women all with differences. They are mostly HEA, with characters going through change to celebrate their differences.
The Being Me Campaign presents well written stories by authors who write with passion and guts. Authors not afraid to delve into the sometimes murky and dark world of characters who find it difficult to accept themselves. Authors who delight in taking their readers on a journey fraught with insecurities and flawed characters who eventually come into the light.
Each writer fulfils a silent promise to the reader; that by the time their story ends, the character/s will have changed, and that is the essence of every great story.
Sixteen stories from gifted authors take Being Me to a higher level. If one of these stories helps another person overcome his/her burden, then this anthology will have helped in some way to dispel the myths surrounding our own psyche; because who we are now, is just a small step towards who we can be in the future.
Amazon Kindle Only: http://amzn.to/2ypa3XO
Smashwords (All Formats) https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/753560
CoolDudes Publishing http://www.cooldudespublishing.com/being-me-the-bei…mpaign-anthology/
About The Being Me Campaign Charity
In 2015, two individuals from very different backgrounds felt more could be done to create a world free from bullying, discrimination and prejudice. They wanted to see a world that empowered, celebrated and encouraged everyone to be proud of who they are and their differences.
The duo decided they needed to be the change they wanted to see in the world, so they decided to create an inclusive organisation that encouraged, empowered and inspired individuals of all ages to embrace and celebrate who they are. They also felt it was extremely important to challenge all forms of bullying, discrimination, prejudice and encourage individuals to respect, accept and celebrate others for who they are.
This unlikely duo, Kieran Stanbridge and Tracy Shayler, set about achieving their vision and in October 2015 the Being Me Campaign was born.
Many individuals across the UK feel isolated and alone on a daily basis because of their differences. 84% of young people and 80% of adults have or are suffering from bullying, discrimination or prejudice for simply being who they are. The Being Me Campaign is innovative in their approach to addressing these social issues; they are one of the only charities that does not focus on one specific area. As individuals, the Campaign is made up of many differences, and believe it’s important to have conversations together.
We are all human; we all deserve the same respect, kindness and equality. As a charity, the Being Me Campaign has an open-door policy, so people from all backgrounds and differences may come together to learn about one another, because far more unites us than divides us.
Through their diverse work as a charity, including public campaigns, workshops, online support and much more, they Campaign has fast become one of the leading and innovative charities promoting equality, acceptance and self-love.
The Being Me Campaign Objectives
To create an open, educated and accepting world which embraces, loves, and respects each person for the amazing individual they are.
To inspire, empower and give individuals of all ages the skills they need to increase their self-esteem, self-love and confidence.
To ensure everyone knows that it’s ok to be who you are; we should celebrate our differences not suppress them.
To give everyone a voice and platform to share their personal journey to inspire others to embrace their differences.
To create a world free from all forms of bullying, discrimination and prejudice.
Support the Being Me Campaign
Registered Charity 1167614.
Be inspired by our amazing supporters and see why they’re supporting our charity. Everyone has a story to tell and advice to give!
BECOME A BEING ME SCHOOL CHAMPION
A Being Me School Champion is a student who advocates, empowers, encourages and inspires others to be proud of who they are and their differences. They run campaigns to promote equality, acceptance, respect and inclusion to ensure no one in their school community is ever isolated, bullied, discriminated against or subject to prejudice for being who they are. Their work increases student’s self-esteem, self-love, confidence and creates an environment which welcomes and embraces everyone for the unique individual they are.
Donations are welcome.
Website:
October 5, 2017
Release Blitz – The Blueridge Junction Boys by A.D. Ellis
NO ONE SAID LOVE WAS EASY. WILL THEY FIGHT FOR IT?
Title: Fight for It: The Blueridge Junction Boys
Series: The Blueridge Junction Boys 1
Release Date: October 3rd, 2017
Publisher: A.D. Ellis Publishing
Genres: Male/male romance
Goodreads:
What inspired A.D. Ellis to write Fight for It: The Blueridge Junction Boys
The Blueridge Junction Boys came about because of a couple different things.
First, I was playing with a small town called Blueridge. In my head, the three main characters were the Blueridge Boys. But, a thought struck me out of the blue that The BJ Boys would be so perfect as a little play on words in a male/male romance. So, I added Junction because of the railroad going through Blueridge. Voila! The Blueridge Junction Boys series was born and The BJ Boys became the official nickname.
As far as the stories for each individual book, I knew I wanted to play up some of my favorite tropes. Fight For It is the story of Micah and Cole. Micah is out, but Cole is not so I got to have fun writing a mechanic and teacher in this out-for-you story.
Can’t Fight It is the story of Levi and Jay (coming late October/early November.) This is one of my favorite tropes with opposites attract and May/December romance.
Bound to Fight is Cody and Kennedy’s story (coming mid to late November.) This has a leather daddy and enemies to lovers theme and I’m loving it!
I’m a sucker for all of these tropes. Set them in a small town and it’s even better.
So, this series was inspired by what I love to read and a funny little play on words. I love how it’s grown into such a satisfying world of characters and stories for me as a writer.
Micah is a small-town mechanic with a big-time dream. He’s found his soulmate in high school social studies teacher Coleman Pierce, but while Micah’s out and proud of it, Coleman’s closet door is closed, locked, and welded shut. Stolen nights are all they’ll ever have, unless Micah can find some way to convince Cole that coming out won’t be the end of his dreams.
Cole moved to Blueridge Junction to escape his past. He planned to make himself a new life, far from home and the betrayal he’d suffered there. He wasn’t going to make the same mistakes again, but he didn’t count on meeting Micah, or the intensity of the feelings the man arouses in him.
But Micah is out and Cole… isn’t. And while Micah definitely revs his engines, Cole isn’t going to risk his job or his newly minted future on a relationship that might not work out. When outside forces bear upon the couple, Cole is faced with a decision. Will he keep his secret and risk losing everything, including the man he loves? Or will he stand with Micah and fight for their future?
*Fight for It is a male/male romance meant for ages 18+ due to language, themes, and adult scenes.*
“Well, hello there, Mr. Pierce.” Jay Owen’s perched next to me at the bar where I was waiting on my to-go order.
I’d met Jay through Cody, the owner of BJ’s Burgers & Beer where I got seventy-five percent of my meals. A lot of people in town were friendly, welcoming, and perfectly nice. But, somehow, I had managed to land mostly gay men in the majority of my new friends. Birds of a feather, I guess.
“Hi, Jay. And call me Cole. Mr. Pierce seems sort of creepy the way you say it.” I was only slightly joking.
“It’s supposed to,” Jay drawled and winked. “No, but seriously, where’s your car? I’ve seen you walking lately.”
“It’s in the shop. Broke down on the last trip back from my old place.” I checked the time. I had nowhere to be, but chit-chat with Jay rarely stayed neutral.
“Micah’s working on your car?” Jay’s eyes bugged out.
“Yeah, why?”
“Just, if Micah was working on my car, I’d be over there from open until close watching.” Jay bit his lip.
“You don’t have a car, Jay.” I rolled my eyes and tried to change the subject.
“Elementary, my dear. You totally know what I mean.” Jay fanned himself. “Mmm, just think of Micah all sweaty. Pulling those coveralls down to his waist. Bending over that car just like he’d bend over you.”
“Whoa, okay. Calm down there before you work yourself into a froth.”
Cody came over and plopped down my to-go bag. He handed Jay a bag as well. “Here, made too many fries. You can take them.”
Jay smiled and grabbed the bag. “Thanks, Papa Bear.”
“Call me that again and I’ll take them back.” Cody flipped/flicked? a towel at Jay.
Out on the sidewalk, Jay and I sauntered toward the park.
“You’ve got to know that Micah is like majorly hot for you, right?” Jay asked around a mouthful of fries.
“No. He’s not. And, even if he was, it wouldn’t matter. I’m not looking.” The lies rolled from my tongue easier each time I said them.
“Girl, you keep telling yourself that all you want, but I’m telling you. Micah Edwards is totally hot for Cole Pierce.” Jay teased. “It’s like fate. You end up teaching here. Your car breaks down. Hot-as-sin Micah Edwards comes to rescue you in his big truck. Mmm, I’d let him hoist me up and tow me anywhere he wants.”
“Dude, chill out. Micah doesn’t like me. I don’t like Micah. I’m not looking for anything in the romance department. My job is what’s important to me.” We had almost reached the park. I’d go one way and Jay would, hopefully, go his own way.
“Only having your job to fulfill you is a sad and lonely way to live. You need friends and love. And sex. Lots of sex.” Jay gave a dramatic sigh.
“I’m making friends. I love my job. And sex is overrated.” Lies, lies, lies.
“Then you’re not having it right,” Jay quipped.
“Yeah? Who are you having sex with?” I challenged in hopes of changing the subject.
“Me?” Jay put a hand to his chest. “Ladies don’t kiss and tell, but I’ll have you know I’m saving myself for the right person.”
I couldn’t help the look of shock on my face. Glancing around, I whispered, “You’re a virgin?”
Jay sobered quickly. “Yeah, but can you keep that quiet? I have a reputation to uphold.”
Amazon $5 gift card
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6d41b92d135/
A.D. Ellis spends the majority of her days loving and wrangling two school-aged children and a husband before heading to the inner city of Indiana to teach a challenging group of alternative education students in grades third through sixth. Most days she hits the gym after school in hopes of running and lifting away the stress and headaches of the day before picking up her children and squeezing a whole day’s worth of loving and living into the too-short hours before bed. It’s no wonder Ms. Ellis lives for the slower, easier days she gets to enjoy on breaks from school.
Growing up in a small farming town in southern Indiana, A.D. is grateful to her mother for passing along the love of reading. With her nose constantly stuck in a book, Ms. Ellis became accustomed to friends and acquaintances snickering and shaking their heads at her love of reading.
A.D. never dreamed of being anything but a teacher, although there are certain times of the year when she laments her career choice. Ms. Ellis had a story idea floating in her head for about a year. After persistent prodding from a friend, A.D. put pen to paper and began writing her first story in October 2013. From that moment on, she was hooked. Taking the people and stories from her head and sharing them with readers is a scary, exhausting, rewarding, and fulfilling experience which A.D. plans to continue until there are no more stories banging around in her mind.
A.D. Ellis’ work can be found on both iBooks and Amazon. Please contact her on Facebook, Twitter, or her website.
Website http://www.adellisauthor.com
iBooks bit.ly/ADEllisiBooks
Amazon author.to/ADEllisAmazon
Facebook www.facebook.com/adellisauthor
Twitter www.twitter.com/ADEllisAuthor
Hosted By
September 25, 2017
Promo – Eight Second Cowboy by Piper Kay
As always, it’s a pleasure to welcome Piper to my website and I’m excited about the release of her latest book, Eight Second Cowboy’. I’ve known Piper for some time now and she never fails to please.
Read along, join the tour and participate in the giveaway. You might be pleasantly surprised if you’re a winner…
Rumors are going to fly
Title: Eight Second Cowboy
Series: Eight Second Cowboy #1
Release Date: November 3rd, 2013
Publisher: Encompass Ink
Genres: M/M Romance, Westerns, Contemporary
Pages: 105
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18731770-eight-second-cowboy
It’s Rodeo Roundup time in Houston. Undefeated bull riding champion, Matt Stevens, runs into longtime nemesis, Lance Loskey. Matt is intense, his focus and drive sustain him, but seeing Lance with his carefree attitude rages a plethora of feelings to the surface. This mellow cowboy is in position for more than just the championship after a freak accident paves Lance’s way. This is an opportunity for bull riding opponents to embrace their destiny. Will they succumb to fate, or will stubborn pride end the 8 second ride in tragedy?
http://getbook.at/EightSecondCowboy
Still sopping wet, I step out of the tub and our eyes meet. He doesn’t back up, he continues standing close to me. I don’t know what comes over me, but it’s like I’m possessed. I reach out and touch his waist, he grabs me and pulls my naked body towards him. What am I doing? He immediately wraps his arms around my waist and tightens his grip.
I slip my hand up under his long blonde hair as he draws me to him. Hungrily, our mouths widen and he plunges his tongue deep inside of me. The intensity behind our lips meeting causes our bodies to smash against one another. He’s warm and soft, the taste of honey from the whiskey lingering on his tongue is sweet with a slight hint of caramel. I don’t want to stop kissing him. I might not have ever done this before, but I can’t stop myself either. Our tongues slowly circle one another’s, then thrash in foreplay, as our heads twist and turn from side to side. I’m kissing him back just as much as he’s kissing me. He tugs on my bottom lip and sucks me into his mouth. He moans into my mouth, my cock continues to swell in anticipation. The sensual, yet hungry, noises he’s makes is getting me horny and I love the way it makes me feel. I want a release so damn bad, I need it.
Our kisses intensify and we both silently beg for satisfaction. I want him like I’ve never wanted anyone before. I greedily grab his hand and lead him to my aching muscle. He gives a little grin, our mouths never leaving each other, as he takes me in his palm, wrapping around me. He grips my cock, tight and firm. “Oh god!” I gasp. He begins stroking back and forth. His tongue delves into my mouth, swirling around mine and he sucks the tip into his pucker. “Mmm…” he growls.
Lance snatches my hand, guiding me to the button on his jeans. With one hand, I reach down between his legs and glide my open palm up the inside of his thigh, pressing hard and massaging, then I stroke over his dick. I stroke against his bulge, he’s blistering hard. With the other hand, I fumble and unfastened his button then lower his zipper. I pull apart the two sections of his jeans, releasing him. He reaches up, stripping his t-shirt over his head, and tossing it to the carpet. Our hands thirstily grope and rub against one another. I swirl my tongue in circles around his and lap at his lips. The slurping noises are driving me crazy.
Things are moving so fast, as he slides his jeans down a little, he winds my hand around his dick. I stroke up and down the length of his rod. He tightens his grip and starts jerking me faster. God he feels good, fuck it’s hot and I love how horny he’s making me.
$5 Amazon Gift Card
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/6d41b92d134/?
Piper Kay is your average cup of tea with a splash of southern sass. She was born & raised in Houston, Texas-USA and her skills include pitching a fit and throwing a hissy. She also happens to be an author….with a bi-polar muse…who may or may not have sarcastic tendencies….and/or a potty mouth. Together, they share head space w/the men living in there… her boys with baditude. Piper is an Amazon #1 International Best Selling author of LGBT Erotica, and an Amazon International Bestselling author of LGBT Erotica romance, specifically in the M/M Erotica genre, and LGBT drama. She has been known to genre hop a time or two into YA/NA stories, also M/M. Piper brings her passion of storytelling straight to the pages, most times served with a super-sized sprinkle of sexy, a slice of sarcasm and a carafe of crazy.
Piper can be reached at
Amazon author page: http://amazon.com/author/piperkay
FB: https://www.facebook.com/piper.kay.1
About me: http://about.me/piper.kay
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PiperKayAuthor
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6613775.Piper_Kay
Authograph: https://www.authorgraph.com/authors/PiperKayAuthor
Google: https://google.com/+PiperKay
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChQcM-y0AvDtn6YO9PY7lxg
Instagram: http://instagram.com/piperkay.author
Hosted by Divine Promotions
September 5, 2017
7TH SEPTEMBER FOR MEN OF LONDON #9
Only two more days to go until Survival Game is officially released. So, what can you expect in this book? Well, Laverne and Brook re-appear, with a cameo appearance by Lesley Scott. He doesn’t have a big role, but he’s still around, looking dapper. Of course, Ryan and Mango feature quite a bit, with an interrupted blowjob scene that I hope will make you LOL. There’s the usual bitch slapping among the drag queens, and poor Kyle nearly loses it with one of them.
You’ll learn more about both Kyle and Eric’s past in this story, and Kyle’s does involve cruel spousal abuse. Eric is still suffering the loss of his partner a few years ago, something which torments him to this day. The story contains suicide and murder as well, so fair warning. After all, this is a story involving a paramedic and I’ve kept it true to life and spared the honey coating. This story is supposed to reflect what these paramedics go through every single day without it being soft soaped.
Silver Dagger Book Tours are doing a blog tour Sept 8th to Oct 8th too, and I think there may still be time to sign up if you fancy
http://silver-dagger-scriptorium.weebly.com/tour-sign-ups/survival-game-tour-sign-ups
Here are the pre-order links in case you fancy it
http://www.boroughspublishinggroup.co...
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Survival-Gam...
https://www.amazon.com/Survival-Game-...
www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/survival-game-3
smashwords.com/books/view/745473
If you haven ’t supported the Thunderclap, I ’d love it if you did
https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/6...
And here ’s the book trailer, short and sweet.
August 21, 2017
Back to School HOP! #BackToSchool #BlogHop #Giveaway #FUN
To celebrate the start of a new school year some really awesome blogs and authors are giving away a lot of prizes!
Enter them all for more chances to win!
FOND MEMORIES OF MY SCHOOL DAYS
I confess I was a bit of a nerd at school. The one who enjoyed it, the one who did well in most subjects (except maths, which I hated with a passion.)
I did what was called an Academic course, because I wanted the chance to go to University. English, French, Afrikaans, Maths, Biology, Geography. Afrikaans was compulsory, as was English. I wanted to learn another language so French it was. Biology fascinated me, and Geography seemed like an easy enough subject to pass.
Maths? Ewww. Trigonometry? Never understood it, couldn’t wrap my head around it. I wasn’t planning on being a rocket scientist or mathematician so who cared? Algebra- good gracious, really? Who needed that. I scraped through my Matric (English A-levels) by the skin of my teeth on this. But then I did use to copy the homework of my cleverer friends in Maths before I went into class. So I wasn’t really surprised at my grade E result.
English – no surprise this was my favourite subject. I sailed through it, getting my distinction and honours, being part of the Debate Team, excelling in the story and essay writing. Biology was my next distinction. I just missed my A grade in Afrikaans getting a B and also got a very respectable grade B for French. Geography was an average C.
Home Economics? I’m about the least domesticated person in this area you could imagine. We had to knit a donkey one time as a home project. I paid my two besties to each knit one half then sew them together to give me a pass. I hated cooking, and sewing and crap like that.
I formed some great friends at school, in the seventies – 1976 – 1980 was when I did my ‘secondary school’ time. So long ago. One of those friendships has stayed with me, the others not. I’m grateful for what I learnt then and how it moulded me into doing what I do today. I may not be able to chase tornados, develop an antidote, visit France and speak like a native, be an engineer or cook like Nigella- but at least I can write a good story.
Like this post and make a comment to be entered into the draw
Tag some friends
Share if you like!
Winner (chosen at random) receives:
2 e-book copies of any of my back list books, winner’s choice.
Follow the link to enter the next giveaway!
My Slanted Bookish Ramblings – https://www.facebook.com/bookramblings
FACEBOOK or Just One More Page is not responsible for this giveaway.
https://www.facebook.com/1morepage
PARTICIPATING BLOGS
JOMP – https://www.facebook.com/1morepage/
KL Donn – https://www.facebook.com/KLDonnAuthor/
Glenna Maynard – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGlennaMaynard
A.M. Meyers – https://www.facebook.com/authorammyers/
Erin Cristofoli – https://www.facebook.com/ErinCristofoliAuthor/
Esther E. Schmidt – http://www.facebook.com/authoresthereschmidt
2OCC Reviews – https://www.facebook.com/2oneclickchicks
Blushing Mom Book Reviews – https://www.facebook.com/blushingmombookreviews/
T.J. Loveless – https://www.facebook.com/TJLovelessAuthor
Sara Schoen- https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSaraSchoen/
A.S. Crowder – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorASCrowder
Amanda Kaitlyn – https://www.facebook.com/AmandaKaitlynAuthor/
T&A Book Blog – https://www.facebook.com/tnabookblog/
Rebecca Rohman – https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaRohman1/
C.M. Johnson – https://www.facebook.com/5thGuardian
SH Richardson – https://www.facebook.com/authorshrichardson/
Elizabeth Wills – https://www.facebook.com/ewillswrites/
Robin Leigh Anderson – https://www.facebook.com/authorrobinleighanderson/
Piken Sander – https://www.facebook.com/PikenSanderAuthor/
Lisa Suzanne – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLisaSuzanne/
Four Chicks Flipping Pages – https://www.facebook.com/fourchicksflippingpages
J.D.R. Hawkins – https://www.facebook.com/jdrhawkins/
Anna Brooks – https://www.facebook.com/annabrooksauth
Sarah O’Rourke – https://www.facebook.com/sarah.orourke.507/
Stacey Johnston – https://www.facebook.com/staceyjohnstonauthor/
Elizabeth York – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLizYork/
Ren Alexander – https://www.facebook.com/RenAlexanderAuthor
RB Hilliard –https://www.facebook.com/Author-RB-Hilliard-202972463220249/?ref=hl
Mayra Stratham – https://www.facebook.com/mystathamwrites/
Jessika Klide – https://www.facebook.com/JessikaKlideRomance/
Julia Goda – https://www.facebook.com/juliagodaauthor
Winter Travers – https://www.facebook.com/wintertravers/
Brooke May – https://www.facebook.com/authorbrookemay
LK Collins – https://www.facebook.com/lkcollinsauthor
The Naughty Librarians Playground – https://www.facebook.com/The-Naughty-Librarians-Playground-1510533539233896/
J.L. Ostle – https://www.facebook.com/J.L.Ostle
I Robinson – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMRobinson/
Connie T. Colon – https://www.facebook.com/Connie-T-Colon-Authorillustrator-1107220439403873/
Becca Taylor – https://www.facebook.com/authorbeccataylor/
R.C. Martin – https://www.facebook.com/rcmartinbooks
Renea Porter – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorReneaPorter/
Susan Mac Nicol – https://www.facebook.com/authorsusanmacnicol/
My Slanted Bookish Ramblings – https://www.facebook.com/bookramblings
Lisa Gerkey – https://www.facebook.com/authorlisagerkey
Tracie Douglas – https://www.facebook.com/authortraciedouglas
Dark Water Covers – https://www.facebook.com/darkwatercovers
Reckless Readers – https://www.facebook.com/recklessreaders
Deborah Ann – https://www.facebook.com/DeborahAnnAuthor/
The Destiny Series – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDeborahAnn/
Nene – https://www.facebook.com/authornene/
Elaine and Tami’s JB3 Blackbirds – https://www.facebook.com/elaine.kelly.333
Tricia Daniels – https://www.facebook.com/TriciaDanielsAuthor/
Lee Ryder – https://www.facebook.com/MsLeesFanfiction/
Gillian Jones – https://www.facebook.com/Gillian-Jones-Author-1493072067635651/
Torrie Robles – https://www.facebook.com/torrierobles
DL Gallie – https://www.facebook.com/DLGallieAuthor/
KT Dove – https://www.facebook.com/KTDove/
Dee Garcia – https://www.facebook.com/authordeegarcia
Jennifer Sivec – https://www.facebook.com/jennifersivec/
GM Sherbert – https://www.facebook.com/Authorgmscherbert/?fref=ts
Jambookblog – https://www.facebook.com/Jambookblog
Jennifer Michael- https://www.facebook.com/AuthorJenniferMichael/
JOMP Promotions – https://www.facebook.com/justonemorepagepromotions/
Dawn Martens – https://www.facebook.com/AuthorDawnMartens/
August 16, 2017
Survival Game – Men of London #9
The latest book in my Men of London series will be available on September 7th. This story took a while, I struggled getting it to all gel together. I hope I did it justice.
If you read Hard Climate, you’ll remember Kyle Tripper, Ryan’s feisty manager at Club Delish, and Eric Kirby, the paramedic who came to the club one tonight to assist a man having a heart attack- and even went on a date with Ryan once. Kyle and Eric were quite taken with each other even then and in this book, they get to know each other a little better…
What’s it all about, you ask?
Since his true love died, paramedic Eric Kirby has been living a half life, but when he meets purple-haired Kyle Tripper, Eric’s heart is jolted into a whole new rhythm.
HANDLE…
Kyle Tripper has led an interesting life. Currently the manager of London’s famous Club Delish, he used to be a croupier extraordinaire in Las Vegas. But not everything in that life was so glamorous; his ex was a piece of work. Now gun-shy, Kyle hopes there is someone special out there for him, and secretly wishes it’s luscious paramedic, Eric Kirby.
WITH CARE
Every day Eric Kirby goes through the motions. Yeah, he saves lives, and, sure, he makes a difference, but he doesn’t feel it anymore – not since he lost his one true. But, when he meets wild, flamboyant Kyle Tripper and learns there’s a skittish, apprehensive man beneath the bold façade, the best of Eric’s protective nature kicks in, and opens his heart to a new love.
Buy links available soon at www.boroughspublishinggroup.com
Here’s another teaser just to whet your appetite.
August 4, 2017
All about e-book pricing and how authors make a living
I see a lot of posts about the prices of e-books and whether a reader would buy a book because of the length versus price, or the price overall. I’d like to add my two cents worth in here. This is my own personal philosophy. If I like an author’s work, I’ll buy their books, within reason. My budget might not stretch to $20 …but who knows. If I want it bad enough, and I think it’s worth it, I might.
Authors put so much work into writing a book. It’s a hard job to do, because there’s only you and the characters and story in your head. It’s late nights, weekends, holidays and I find writing is a 24/7 job, especially with the time differences between UK and US and other parts of the world. So, I’m available Every-Waking-Minute. I don’t slow down. That’s my choice, I know that. I’m sure a lot of authors out there do the same though.
My point in all this is e-book prices rise, fall, are offered free but the author still toils away putting it all together and giving heart and soul to the process of bringing out a book. To me, a price between $Free and $15 isn’t a lot to pay if you love the author’s work. Yes, I understand some books are shorter so should be sold for less, there’s an argument I suppose for length being related to price. But when you look at some of the royalties authors are earning to bring you their wonderful stories, I don’t really begrudge them charging a higher price.
[image error]
And a word of warning- get that sample downloaded on your e-reader before you buy a book from an author you haven’t read before, so you can see if you’re getting value for your buck. I know right away from reading that whether I want to read further.
Please don’t judge a book by its cost either. If it’s 0.99, or 1.25, it doesn’t mean it’s crap. It generally means it’s the author trying to attract people to their work because whether we like it or not, pricing is a big thing for readers. If it’s $8.00, that doesn’t mean it’s better than anyone else’s. Do your homework first- get that sample downloaded. It’s a case of Buyer Beware.
Look at what you can get for $2 – $15 nowadays and tell me that weeks, months and years of sweat, blood and toil don’t equate to this $ range to be a realistic figure for an author to produce their work for you, the readers.
A cup of coffee (source US News)
$2.70
[image error]
A cafe mocha is the most expensive caffeine beverage in the country, which costs an average of $3.94. An average cup of coffee costs $2.70, but a drink of cafe americano – which is espresso and water – is even less expensive with an average price of $2.62.
A box of chocolates (source RussellStover)
$10.99
A fluffy toy (source toys r us)
$14.99
A movie ticket (source THR)
$8.61
[image error]
2015- THR reports the average US movie ticket price is now $8.61, which is 3.36% more than the average for this quarter last year, and quite a lot more than the $8.12 average for the first quarter of 2015.
A beer (source CNBC)
$3.72
2015- Beantown is home to Boston Beer Company, maker of Sam Adams, and the average price of a beer here is $3.72, averaging a store price of $1.46 with a bar price of $5.98. Beer in Chicago much cheaper than New York’s, averaging $3.56.
Fresh Flowers (source NYDailyNews) – Bunch of carnations
$9.00
So, while we all have our budgets to live with, and need to be patient to buy some books when our budget runs out, or wait for competitions or special offers, please spare a thought to that author working their guts out to bring you that story. A book you can keep forever and which also makes you experience emotions, plus making you a part of one amazing community which in itself gives a reader a lot more than just a book.
We all love our readers dearly and appreciate every sale we make. This isn’t us saying we need to charge more for our work or worse, our readers are a bunch of Scrooges!! Hell no. This is us saying please bear the above in mind when we put a new release up for sale and see where we’re coming from when we set the price.
SOME MORE FACTS ABOUT E-BOOK PRICING TO READ AT YOUR LEISURE
According to an article in The Guardian, in the UK the average price paid for an e-book increased 7% to £4.15 in 2016, while the price of a hard copy increased 3% to £7.42. At the time I’m writing this, that equates to $5.50 and $9.83 respectively.
I’ve attached a useful link to a presentation done by leading data site AuthorEarnings. It’s a detailed bit of work done in 2016 and makes interesting reading.
http://authorearnings.com/2016-rwa-pan-presentation/
My Library of Articles
https://www.millcitypress.net/author-learning-center/how-to-price-your-ebook
http://www.econtentmag.com/Articles/Editorial/Feature/The-State-of-Ebooks-2017-115709.htm
https://publishdrive.com/ebook-pricing-strategy/
http://ninaharrington.com/how-much-should-you-charge-for-your-romance-ebook/
June 26, 2017
Girl Crush by T L Travis Book Tour
I’m thrilled to welcome T L Travis to my website and participate on her blog tour for Girl Crush. It looks like a very interesting story and while I haven’t read any F/F fiction before, this certainly intrigues me….
Girl Crush is an erotic female romance novella that brings to light that one time…
The one time you found yourself questioning your so-called sexuality, potentially risking your friendship. What if the feelings aren’t reciprocated?
Confusion and pain brings them closer together, feeding from one another’s strengths and thrusting them into each other’s arms.
Are the risks of their new-found love worth the result?
This novella caters to adults over 18 as it does contain a high level of consensual MF (1 scene) and FF sexual encounters.
[image error]
Title: Girl Crush
Release Date: May 26, 2017
Publisher: Encompass Ink
Genre: Erotic female (LGBT) romance
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35259348-girl-crush
Do you think that giving books away free works and why?
I think so, everyone likes something for free and it gives readers insight into what you write. Possibly drawing them in to read other musings you’ve written.
How has your writing evolved since your first book?
Very much so. I’ve perfected my technique and made it much easier for my editors.
What’s the one thing that has really surprised you since you started writing?
I’ve discovered my inner Mistress whom I didn’t know was there.
Are there misconceptions people have about your genre?
Yes, especially within the BDSM realm. There is a preconceived notion that BDSM is about abuse when it is the opposite. Any good Dom/Mistress knows their sub’s limits and always has their subs needs put first and foremost. BDSM is first and foremost about trust.
What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?
I went to Houston to meet Piper Kay and Jas T. Ward, then to LA to meet Lily Luchesi. These are authors I work closely with and talk to frequently so to me it was very important to meet them face to face. I love them all!
[image error]
Top 5 ways I like to spend my weekend
Stay in my pjs all weekend – wait, I do that all week 
June 23, 2017
Guest Post – Anthem of the Sea by Thom Collins
I’m thrilled to have Thom Collins down on the blog today telling us a little more about his new release. Welcome Thom.
[image error]
Thanks for having me here today to talk about Anthem of the Sea.
Tell us about your book.
Anthem of the Sea is the first book in what I’m calling The Anthem Trilogy. Essentially a contemporary romantic thriller set on a luxury cruise ship on its return journey to the UK after a Mediterranean voyage. Daniel and Elijah are two guest entertainers who meet when they join the ship for the last few days at sea. The attraction is instant for both of them and the timing seems perfect. What better way to get to know each other than with a few days at sea? But this being a thriller, it’s far from smooth sailing for their relationship as well the ship.
Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I draw as much from real life as possible. This book was inspired by my own love of ships and cruise holidays. For me there’s nothing better than heading out to sea, knowing you won’t see land again for a couple of days. It can be scary too. The rough weather the ship encounters in the second half of the story is drawn from experience. On my very first cruise, we hit enormous seas in the Bay of Biscay on our second day. It was terrifying. Nowadays the high seas don’t bother me, but that first voyage was a real trial by fire. But it hasn’t put me off. There is no part of flying that I enjoy, so travelling by ship will always be my preferred option.
Who is your favourite character from one of your stories and why?
My favourite characters are always the ones I’m writing about now. Daniel and Elijah from this book are my current top two. I love these guys. Maybe because I’ve spent more time writing about them than any other characters. I’ve already completed the second book in the Anthem Trilogy, which picks up their story a year after book one, and am currently writing the third. I feel like they’ve moved in with me. It’ll be hard to let them go at the end of book three. Thankfully I’m a slow writer, so they’ll be with me for a few months yet.
What’s the biggest writing challenge you’ve ever taken on?
Writing this trilogy. I’ve only ever written standalone stories until now, so planning a three book series was a huge challenge. I knew it was a trilogy from the start, rather than a connected series of standalone’s, and planned it as such. I knew when I started writing the first book, where they characters would be at the end of the third, but getting there has required a lot of stamina. It was important that each book have it’s own identity and pay off the readers efforts. I hate getting to the end of book that leaves everything hanging till the next one. I want readers to be totally satisfied by each volume in the trilogy but still wanting more.
[image error]
An ocean of possibility. For love, revenge and murder.
Daniel Blake, a handsome young singer, boards the Atlantic Anthem in Portugal for the final voyage of her maiden season. The state-of-the-art ship is the jewel in the Royal Atlantic cruise fleet. For Daniel, a one-time boy band member and TV talent show winner, it’s an honor to perform aboard such a vessel. Daniel loves the freedom and adventure of the sea. He began his solo career as a cruise ship entertainer and returning to the ocean as a headline act brings him full circle. He isn’t looking for love.
Neither is comedian Elijah Mann. Working at sea has given Elijah’s career the boost it desperately needed. Often considered too good-looking and sexy to be funny, work has been hard to come by since his TV show was canceled. With a potential new career opening up, he must remain focused. But when Elijah meets Daniel the attraction is mutual and instant. As the ship sets sail for England they have three days to get to know each other. Elijah can’t let that opportunity pass.
The voyage home is far from smooth. Also on board is a figure from Daniel’s past. A man who’s been holding a grudge for years, waiting for his moment. As a storm builds in the North Atlantic, Daniel and Elijah discover that the trip of a lifetime could be their last.
General Release: 20th June
LINKS:
Pride Publishing: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/anthem-of-the-sea
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Anthem-Sea-Thom-Collins-ebook/dp/B0725JDM29/
Amazon USA: https://www.amazon.com/Anthem-Sea-Thom-Collins-ebook/dp/B0725JDM29
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/gb/en/ebook/anthem-of-the-sea
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/anthem-of-the-sea-thom-collins/1126384702?ean=9781786515681
[image error]
Thom Collins Bio
Thom Collins is the author of the novel Closer by Morning, with Pride Publishing. His love of page turning thrillers began at an early age when his mother caught him reading the latest Jackie Collins book and promptly confiscated it, sparking a life-long love of raunchy novels.
The novellas Gods of Vengeance and Silent Voices were published by Pride in early 2017, followed by the novel Anthem of the Sea, the first book in the Anthem Trilogy. He has recently finished writing the second book in a series and is working on the third.
Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age. Since taking his first cruise in 2013 he realized that sailing is the way to go.
Links:
Blog: www. thomcollinsauthor.blogspot.co.uk/
Twitter: @thomwolf and @realthomcollins
Email: thomcollinsauthor@aol.com
