Tempeste O'Riley's Blog, page 24

Cover Reveal: Groom of Convenience by Vicktor Alexander

In an alternate universe, in the country of Angland, 1814, the gentry live lives of culture and class. It is a time of courtships, marriages of convenience, and titles, where scandal can ruin an entire family. Gender lines are blurred, and making a good match is of utmost importance. Children are born to men and women, which has led to the acceptance of same-sex marriages.

Lady Lucien Timothy Hawthorne is shocked and angry when he is betrothed against his will to Lord Heathcliff Eddington, III, the Duke of Pompinshire. While drowning his frustration at a popular gentleman’s club, he meets “Robert,” a gorgeous older man whom he sleeps with as “Timmy” regardless of the potential damage to his reputation.

After their liaison, Lucien corresponds with Robert via letters left at Remmington, and they decide to elope. Before they can get away, Lucien meets his betrothed, Heathcliff, who he is surprised to discover is also his beloved, Robert. Both men desire a marriage of the heart, but they find out that sometimes a marriage of convenience can turn into love under the right circumstances. But Lucien has a secret, and Tlondon isn’t as safe as they once thought.

“Here we are,” Rosemary announced, her voice louder than normal, with a false cheeriness to it. Lucien’s eyebrows rose at his mother’s behavior, and he stopped her in front of the closed doors, which once again let Lucien know something or someone was behind those doors that his parents didn’t want him to know about until they’d had a chance to explain it to him.

“Mother, what is going on?” Lucien asked her.

Rosemary looked at Lucien and shook her head. “Why, Luce, absolutely nothing. Why would you ask me something like that?”

Lucien was really concerned, as neither of his parents used his nickname. Ever. He said nothing to her, just staring, unmoving.

Rosemary removed her hand from Lucien’s elbow and raised it to the pearls hanging at her neck to play with them a moment. Lucien was very aware of that gesture; it meant Rosemary was nervous and trying to figure out just what to reveal. He waited expectantly, confident she would let him know what was going on before he had to face his maldy, but when Rosemary shook her head and squared her shoulders, Lucien knew his ploy of silence wouldn’t work this time.

“All you need to know, Lucien, is that everything we do, we do as your parents and because we love you,” Rosemary told him. She raised a hand to his cheek and stroked the skin gently, lovingly. “We were so happy when I gave birth to you and discovered you were a girl. We had been surprised by the pregnancy, as the doctors told me I was past my conceiving years, but you were a delightful surprise. We always wanted a son, and we were finally given one.” She dropped her hand from Lucien’s cheek and lifted it to her face to wipe away the tears that had gathered in her eyes. “We do this because we care about you and only want the best for you.”

Rosemary turned back to the double doors of the red rose room and pushed on the handles to open them. She grabbed the skirt of her morning gown in one hand and glided into the room. Lucien stood in shock for only a moment before he followed her.

“Close the doors, Son.” His maldy’s husky voice came from the direction of one of the chairs next to the fireplace. Lucien nodded and, as he turned to close the doors, saw the Duke and Duchess of Cumbria sitting on the loveseat across from his maldy. He froze in shock for but a moment. Years of etiquette training wouldn’t allow him to just stand in front of the door, but he had never seen anyone in the red rose room who wasn’t family, and now here were two of the most prestigious peers of the realm, not only in their home but in their private family room. Lucien took a moment to compose himself. He smiled at both of them and bowed slightly before turning back to close the doors. After he released the handle, Lucien took a steadying breath and moved to face his parents.

“Well, have a seat, Lucien,” Annabelle directed him.

“Yes, Maldy,” Lucien answered automatically. His maldy was a stern woman. Lucien could only remember one instance where he had ever seen her be soft and loving, though he wasn’t supposed to have. He had woken up in the middle of the night when he was seven years old and had walked out of his room and down the family wing toward his parents’ room. He knew he was too old to actually sleep in the bed with them, but he had wanted comfort from a dreadful nightmare. Halfway down the hall, he’d stopped, frozen in place as he saw his mothers pressed together against the wall next to the bedchamber. They were dressed in evening attire, Rosemary in a gorgeous dress of blue velvet, one hand holding a white shawl, her black hair spilling down her back in a mass of curls. Annabelle was pressed close to Rosemary’s body, her thick blond hair pulled back into a harsh, unforgiving bun, her face pressed into the crook of Rosemary’s neck. Annabelle wore a slim dark green evening gown, embroidered in onyx gems under her small bust and around the hem. As Lucien continued to watch them, he saw Rosemary lift her leg and circle it around Annabelle’s waist, while Annabelle dropped a hand beneath Rosemary’s skirts. Lucien’s eyes had widened, and he’d turned to leave, not in the least bit interested in watching his parents copulate in the middle of the corridor. It was something he only knew about because he’d overheard his sisters speak of it and because he’d sneaked into the servants’ quarters many times and seen the same thing occurring among the servants. Just as he started to turn away, he saw Annabelle lift the hand that had been pressed against the wall on the side of Rosemary’s head and tenderly stroke Rosemary’s cheek. She had leaned close and kissed Rosemary’s lips gently before lifting Rosemary’s leg higher. It was Rosemary’s gasp and harsh groan of Annabelle’s name that had spurred Lucien to turn and race down the hallway to his room.

So while one part of him was happy to know his maldy had a gentle side, the self-preservation side of him tried not to remember how he knew that.

Lucien settled himself on the edge of the chaise next to the loveseat where the duke and duchess sat.

“I believe you know the duke and duchess?” Annabelle said, smiling thinly up at Rosemary, who stood and began pouring tea for all of them. Lucien crossed one leg over the other, balanced his teacup and saucer on his knee, and sat straight up—something else he’d learned how to do in his etiquette class—and nodded.

“Yes, Maldy. So nice to see you again, Your Graces,” Lucien said with a smile at two of the highest-ranking members of society. The Duke of Cumbria was a harsh-looking man. His skin had a healthy tan from spending a great deal of time outside, no doubt riding his horse or hunting, like most titled members of the gentry. It was a luxury Lucien wished he would have once he married, but one he believed he would have to go without once that occasion happened upon him.

The duke’s black hair was brushed back from his face and pulled into a queue at the back of his neck; gray had seeped into the dark strands and colored his temples. His eyes were a mesmerizing shade of light gray, almost silver, his chin pointed, a dimple resting in the middle of it.

He had broad shoulders shrouded in a brown morning coat over a startling white dress shirt with a white cravat and a black vest. He wore black breeches, which could barely contain his large thighs, and black boots on his feet.

Next to him, the Duchess of Cumbria wore a morning gown of yellow that caused her pale skin to look sallow. Her red hair, cluttered with gray strands, was pulled back in a bun, tendrils escaping to curl around her rounded face.

Lucien admired the fact that the Duchess had not felt the need to buy a wig of blonde or black hair that would make her much more fashionable. She no doubt felt she didn’t have to, being a superior member of the gentry. Her bonnet rested on her lap, and Lucien wondered if perhaps she had just removed it moments before he’d entered. Where his mother Rosemary had foregone heels for slippers, the Duchess wore a beautiful pair of white heeled shoes with lace and embroidery over the front of them. Her eyes were a deep jade color, and she smiled brilliantly at Lucien when his eyes fell on her.

“And it is indeed a pleasure to see you again, young Lucien,” the Duchess, Jane, if Lucien remembered her Christian name correctly, said, her voice light and melodious.

“I am sure you are wondering why you were summoned to the family home when we did not have a scheduled meal,” Annabelle stated, and Lucien gave the Duchess a final smile before turning his attention to his maldy.

“The thought had crossed my mind, yes, Maldy,” Lucien admitted.

“Well, my dear, we have taken it upon ourselves to make a decision about your life that I am sure you will find not only agreeable but practically miraculous and fortuitous,” Annabelle stated with a pointed look.

That look Lucien knew quite well. Even if he didn’t find the decision “miraculous” or “fortuitous,” he was being ordered to pretend he did in front of the duke and duchess.

“Thank you, Maldy. I am sure that I will,” Lucien agreed. He wondered if he had been offered to be a companion to the Duchess. While it wasn’t at all a notion he would have chosen for himself, it was inherently better than what he thought he’d been summoned to the estate for.

“Your mother and I have decided to accept the suit offered by the Duke and Duchess of Cumbria,” Annabelle told him before calmly lifting her teacup to her lips and taking a sip.

“Suit?” Lucien questioned, looking back and forth between the two couples.

“Yes. You are to wed Heathcliff Eddington III, His Grace, the Duke of Pompinshire, Marquess of Manchester, Earl of Southerby, Viscount of Berkinstock, Baron of Hempstead, heir to the Dukedom of Cumbria, in six months’ time.”

Buy Link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=5542

(Available Friday 17 October, 2014)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Vicktor “Vic” Alexander wrote his first story at the age of ten and hasn’t stopped writing since. He loves reading about anything and everything and is a proud member of the little known U.N. group (Undercover Nerds) because while he lives, eats, breathes and sleeps sports, he also breathes history and science fiction and grew up a Trekkie. But don’t ask him about Dungeons & Dragons, because he has no idea how to play that game.

When it comes to writing he loves everything from paranormal to contemporary to fantasy to historical and is known for being not only the Epilogue King but also for writing stories that cross lines and boundaries that he doesn’t know are there. Vic a proud father of two daughters one of whom watches over him from Heaven with his deceased partner Christopher, a proud trans* and gay man, and when he is not writing, he is hanging out with his friends, or being distracted by videos of John Barrowman, Scott Hoying, and Shemar Moore.

Vicktor has published numerous bestselling novels and has a WIP list that makes him exhausted just thinking about. He knows that he will be still be writing about hot men falling in love with each other, long after he is living in an assisted living facility, flirting with the hot, male nurses.

Website ♥ Blog ♥ Facebook ♥ Facebook Fan Page ♥ Tumblr ♥ Twitter ♥ Google +

Temptations of Desire: Blog Tour Day 2

Originally posted on Grace Duncan’s blog:

“You will never be successful at finding a beloved if you don’t learn to accept who

you are completely.”— Dalton Harrison III

The quote above is from, as it says, Dalton Harrison III. He’s Alex Noble’s employer and friend in Temptations of Desire. This is a quote that wrote itself, but is so very important in the story and in reality. Until one accepts who they are, how can they expect others to?

View original post!

The Dirty Dozen blog hop: Wake Kelly

Good morning everyone! Today I have a special treat for you… Wade Kelly is visiting me today and talking a little about writing, his stories, and more. This is one of the stops on The Dirty Dozen blog hop. What’s that? Well… it’s Twelve Supporting Author’s (for GayRomLit), supporting each other. We got together and came up with a 12 question Q&A where we each threw a question into the hat, but all of us answer all the questions. So you’ll have to stop by each stop on the hop to see how the same question can honestly have twelve different answers. This is going to be SO much fun!! There is a tourwide giveaway as well that you can enter to win books from all the authors participating in the hop.

What inspires you most when you are writing?

WK: Music. I tend to get a lot of ideas for character interaction from music.

What brought you to write m/m? What keeps you writing in this genre?

WK: I started writing when I thought about creating a story for a friend of how he’d meet “Prince Charming” and since he is gay, I wrote M/M. I stayed with it because it seemed that culture was full of LGBT issues that needed to be talked about and too many stories that needed to be told for those kids who are “thrown away” or bullied or abused because of their sexuality. I say “kids” but they grow into young adults. I wanted to write about their struggles, and so I do.

Of all the characters you’ve written, who is your favorite and why?

WK: Darian Weston. I think he’s the most messed up. Broken. Haunted. And truly his “Story” has not been finished. He is one of three main characters in a trilogy so eventually I will finish his tale. I think I often feel like him (broken and afraid and abandoned), so I care for his development the most.

Many of us have pen names that we use and there are an infinite number of ways and reasons behind them, but I doubt many of them reflect the names we wish we’d been born with.  If you could micro-manage the ultimate do-over, what birth name do you want? What nickname?

WK: I always liked the name Kelly. That is why I use it as my last name. No nickname that I can think of. Maybe “Ace”… :p (That’s a Red Dwarf reference which probably no one will get.)

What is something readers would be surprised to learn about me?

WK: I think I’ve only been drunk 3 times in my life (I’m 46) , and only once was I completely wasted.

What do you do that most injures the progress of your writing, and why do you do it?

WK: Facebook kills my drive. I’m addicted and can’t stay away. Um, movies also are a distraction. But mostly life itself because I have children and I am trying to be balanced in writing and taking care of the family. But if I tilt too far in the “mothering” side of my needs then the writing suffers.

If you had to trade writing for another creative pursuit, what would it be?

WK: I have a thing for musicians. I would have LOVED to learn drums and play in a band. But, I have no musical ability. But I am determined to WRITE a rocker book to fulfill my dream. LOL

In one sentence, write the beginning of a sex scene using some kind of food. Think of it as your hook.

WK: Max took a hold of Paul’s hand, the one festooned with black olives on his fingertips, and proceeded to seductively remove them with a long, slow, deep-throated suck on each digit. (OMGosh, this is so cheesy!)

Name one of your favorite characters of all time that someone else wrote. Can be M/M or any genre.

WK: Drizzt Do’Urden in the Dark Elf books by R.A. Salvatore. He was marginalized by everyone because of the color of his skin and the reputation of his race. I was drawn to his strength to over come prejudice. Perhaps writing about another marginalized group stems from reading about Drizzt.

If you could be one of your characters, who would you be and why?

WK: Nick Jones. He is the most like me growing up. (EXCEPT for the many, many sexual encounters!!!) I had a fairly easy life. My parents were very supportive, caring people and basically gave me everything. (Although I never asked for anything. I’ve very low key.) I know people have a hard time liking Nick and honestly that was unexpected because I adore him. He has the most growth of all my characters and I think that reflects much of my own growing up. I see his potential and I guess I hope to have that potential in myself to grow and change for the better.

How many versions of a book do you usually write before you arrive at ‘the one’, and how does your editor impact that?

WK: I don’t know because I edit as I go. I backtrack and redo sections as I write the following chapters so it is hard to say how many. I never write one full MS and then start to edit. And the DSP editors normally go over it three times, so I am not sure how to answer that one either.

If you came with a warning label, what would it be?

WK: The first thing that came to mind was “Choking Hazard” and I am not sure why. I do OFTEN choke on things I drink. I breathe and swallow at the same time. It’s terrible. But I could think of lots of labels pertaining to the amount of messes I make or how many things I break.

Wade Kelly lives and writes in conservative, small-town America on the east coast where it is not easy to live free and open in one’s beliefs. She writes passionately about the controversial issues witnessed in real life and strives to make a difference by making people think. Wade does not have a background in writing or philosophy, but still draws from personal experience to ponder contentious subjects on paper. When not writing, she is thinking about writing, and more than likely scribbling ideas on sticky notes in the car while playing “taxi driver” for her three children. She likes snakes, and has a tegu (lizard) living in her bathroom.

Visit Wade Kelly at http://www.writerwadekelly.com, or https://twitter.com/WriterWadeKelly.

Contact Wade at writerwadekelly@gmail.com

Subscribe to Wade’s Blog at: http://writerwadekelly.blogspot.com/ to keep up to date on current news.

What if sexuality wasn’t a definable thing and labels merely got in the way?

Nick Jones can’t remember a time when he wasn’t part of the in crowd. Everywhere he goes, he stands out as the best looking guy in the room, and women practically fall into bed with him. Then, after kissing Corey on a dare led to much more and on many occasions, Nick’s “screw anything” reputation escalated, but he didn’t care. 

When Nick meets RC at the restaurant where he works, it throws his whole life out of whack. Overweight, always sweaty, gay, and hairy like a bear; RC lives up to his dubbed nickname “scruffy dude.” He seems Nick’s complete opposite, but Nick can’t get him out of his head.

Because of peer-pressure and his fears about defining his sexuality, Nick struggles with stepping out of his comfort zone and caring about someone different than himself.  If he’s lucky, somewhere between arrogance and ignorance, Nick might find out what it means to be an adult, but if he’s wrong, he could lose everything.  

RC purchased his snake, and we walked away.

I grumbled to RC, “He seemed rude.”

“Charlie? He’s cool. I met him years ago. He liked my flag tattoo and told me he was surprised to find a queer guy who liked snakes. I told him I’m just a guy. We got talking, and he said I’m the first homosexual he’d ever met at a show. Now it’s like a joke between us. He calls me queer, and sometimes I call him a redneck.”

“Doesn’t it bother you, being called queer?” I certainly didn’t like the sound of it.

“Personally, I don’t think so. I like the term queer, but I know others who disagree. I think it’s a personal thing. I’ve never liked to be lumped in with all the rest. I prefer to be left alone.

“Shakespeare said, ‘What’s in a name? A rose by any other name would smell as sweet.’ The paradox is that although names or labels shouldn’t matter one way or another, they do because our emotions attach stigmas to the labels. I may be the same person on the inside no matter what you call me, but being called a faggot while I’m curled in a fetal position trying to protect my vital organs because some asshole thinks it’s funny to kick the queer kid has a habit of changing a person. Me and every other kid who has gone through it. Names hurt because they yank away the threads of self-esteem that hold each person together. When someone is out of self-esteem, pride, or dignity, that person is bound to do anything just to get to the next day. Some sell themselves into prostitution or get lost in drugs. I knew someone who answered a personal ad and moved to California to live with a guy he’d never met. I haven’t heard from him since. He could be happy, or he could be dead. I don’t know. It might sound preposterous, but shit like that happens. People are just so caught up in their world of pain versus addiction that anything can and does happen.”

RC had a point.

I had never thought about it so deeply before. I’d been avoiding the terminology because being called gay bothered me, but I wasn’t sure why. I wanted to avoid the difficulties associated with being in that specific minority because I saw it as a detriment or a stigma. I hadn’t wanted to get marginalized for it. I was a white male born into some level of comfort. I had a job, but I lived at home with my parents. I came and went as I pleased, and dated whomever I wanted. I feared how much that would change. If I was gay or queer, would my life on Easy Street disappear? I liked Easy Street.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

**NOTE: this tour is not a part of the official GRL blog hop

Temptations of Desire: Blog Tour Day 1

Today I’m over at Prism Book Alliance chatting with the lovely Brandilyn. She asked some great questions, is sharing a bit about Temptations of Desire (excerpt included), and even has a giveaway!

http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2014/09/tempeste-oriley-talks-temptations-of-desire-interview-excerpt-giveaway/

Free Fiction Friday: Chances, Part 2

Morning all! Ready for a little more of “Chances”… Of course you are

* * *

By the time he made it to the library, it was ten ‘til closing. He whipped into the parking lot, parked, and hustled inside as quick as he could manage.

Skidding to a stop at the front desk, Tucker flashed his best smile at the young man behind the long counter. “Hi, I’m Tucker Vance. I need to pick up a couple of books on hold for me.”

The pimply faced guy behind the desk looked up, a frown on his long, thin face. “Cuttin’ it kinda close mister, ain’t ya?”

“Sorry, traffic. If I can get my books, I’ll get out of your way.”

“Zeke, be nice,” a deep, melodious voice said from behind Tucker.

The sound slithered up his spine before he really even thought about it. He’d not let anyone affect him in years, not even once he knew of Carl’s betrayal. He didn’t trust easily, but something about the voice got to him. Turning slowly, he looked around and down until he took in the only other man in the front area. He wasn’t all that tall, but was impressively built, and damn! was he sexy. Delicate boned, decked out in tight black jeans, a long sleeved T under and short sleeve Iron Man T-shirt, a wallet chain, biker boots, leather jacket in hand, and a chain around his neck. The white blond and vibrant purple hair stood out but somehow seemed to compliment the man’s features, not detract as he would have expected.

Tucker had never been one for flashy men, or rough biker boys for that matter, but something about this guy had his libido interested. “Hello.”

“Hey.” The stranger smiled, a wide flirtatious look that intrigued Tucker even more than the man’s looks or voice. “Uh, he’s talking to you,” the guy said, gesturing to Zeke.

“Huh? Oh.” Tucker turned back to the snippy boy, but pasted a smile back on. “Sorry, what was that?”

“I said, I need to see your ID.”

“Right. Sorry.” Tucker pulled out his wallet and extracted his university ID and handed it over.

The entire time Zeke worked to scan the ID and books before handing it all over, the stranger watched Tucker, his eyes never leaving Tucker for long.

“Ry, stop staring at the dude,” Zeke snapped at his friend.

Ry? Tucker liked it, though he wondered what it was short for.

“Not staring, Z. Shut up.”

“I don’t mind,” Tucker mumbled, not able to make his voice louder. It was nice to have someone attractive look at him in interest, not that he thought it meant anything, but still… it was nice.

Ry stepped closer as Tucker gathered his books from the counter. “You a prof here?”

“Sometimes.” He only taught part-time for the Engineering Department, his main focus being the design of unique home and office spaces via his architectural design company.

Ry looked him up and down once, a slow smile spreading across his beatific face. “Evasive and hot, I like.” He stepped closer and held out his hand. “Riley Ward.”

Instead of taking Ry’s hand in a normal handshake, Tucker gently took Ry’s fingers, turning and raising his hand slightly. He then bent to give a barely there kiss to the back of the knuckles. “Enchanted,” he murmured as he looked up through his lashes. Not releasing Ry’s hand, Tucker straightened, enjoying the light flush and wide eyes his actions received. “I’m Tucker, as you heard.”

“I, uh…”

“Riley!” Zeke snapped, throwing a paper clip at the sexy but befuddled man as Tucker continued to hold his hand. “Stop gawking and get out of here.”

Tucker ignored Zeke’s outburst, waiting to see what Ry would do. He didn’t have to wait long. “Z, cut the crap and do your job or you won’t have one for long,” Ry ground out, not taking his eyes off Tucker.

“Puh-lese, like you could run this place without me.”

Ry’s head snapped to the side, a dark glower flowing across his face. “I can and will if you can’t do your job right. Now, while you finish, I’m going to escort the nice man here to his car. And clean up the clip.” Before his words faded, Ry looked back to Tucker and grinned again. “How about if I walk you out? It seems the library is closed and we’re in the way.”

Releasing Ry’s hand was harder than he wished to acknowledge right then, but he did, then shifted the heavy books before agreeing, following along with Ry until they stood outside.

“Cool ride,” Ry said, tipping his chin to Tucker’s SUV.

“Thanks. Where’s yours?” Just then he noticed the deep purple colored Harley he’d parked beside and not even paid attention to. “Wait, is that yours?”

“You like Harley’s?”

“I like bikes in general, though I don’t have one.” Carl hates motorcycles, insisting they were dangerous and only gangbangers and fools that wanted to die rode them. Tucker’d given his up not long after he started dating Carl, though now he couldn’t quite remember why he’d thought listening to the idiot was a good idea. “Other than a Harley, what kind is it?”

“It’s a Night Rod® Special in Deep Pearl Plum.” The pride in Ry’s voice was only barely more than the swagger in his motions as he stepped closer to his bike. “Maybe I could take you for a spin sometime?”

Oh, damn. Tucker wanted to say yes, but the kid had bad boy player written all over him. Still… “I…”

“Tucker? How about if I ask you to dinner and promise to pick up on my bike later?” Ry purred.

“I… I don’t trick.”

“Neither do I. I’m asking you out, to a restaurant, not for a quickie. Now, you want to ditch the control and preppy life and come out with me?”

“I’d like that, but how about if we meet there and depending on how things go, you might give me that ride after you feed me.” Tucker winked, his stomach doing an amazing impression of  a cross between a pretzel and a swarm of hyperactive butterflies.

“Great!” Ry smiled up at Tucker as he tucked a bit of purple hair behind one ear. “Meet me at the Laughing Seed over on Wall Street at seven thirty then?”

“Seven thirty. I’ll be there.”

They stood together, neither moving until a door slammed nearby. “Well, I need to head out if I’m going to meet you soon.”

“See ya, Tucker.” The heated look and how Ry’s voice dropped a little had Tucker’s heart racing even as he wondered what the hell he was doing. Ignoring the little voice, he spun around and climbed into his SUV. Refusing to allow himself to watch Ry get on the bike and leave, he quickly started the vehicle and headed home, hoping he wasn’t making a huge mistake.

* * *

Make sure to check out the rest of the stories from Free Fiction Friday!

Guess what’s coming on Monday…

Yep, that’s right… then next book the the Desires Entwined series! What to know more? Of course you do!

Title: Temptations of Desire
Series: Desires Entwined, Book #3
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Length: Novel / 200 pages
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Published: September 22nd, 2014

Alexander James Noble is a gender fluid gay man who gave up on finding Mister Right a long time ago. He’s not asking for much, though. He just wants a guy who loves all of him and appreciates his feminine form too.

At the local LGBTQ center where Alex regularly volunteers, he meets Dal Sayer, an officer of the Milwaukee PD. Because he’s been rejected one too many times, Alex doesn’t trust the huge cop and the interest he shows in him, but once Dal sets his mind on something, he goes all out. Pushing aside his preconceived notions, Alex opens up just a little and soon caves.

From their first date—while dealing with his father’s failing health and his parents’ demands for him to settle down and have children—Dal never takes his eyes off his goal of making Alex his. But proving to Alex he isn’t like all the men who couldn’t see him for who he truly was and only wanted to hide him away is harder than he thought.

It’s available for preorder:

    DSP in both ebook (all formats) and paperback!

    All Romance in ebook (all formats), and

    Amazon in Kindle format.

 

And don’t forget, all paperbacks at Dreamspinner Press are 35% off through Sept. 21! Don’t forget to use the code GRL2014 for free shipping to pick up at GRL if you’ll be attending!

Free Fiction Friday: Chances, Part 1

Morning all! I’ve officially joined the Free Friday Fiction gang. Each week I’ll be posting a little more of “Chances”.

* * *

Tucker Vance stood in front of the large dark wood desk in the home he’d shared with Carl, his partn- ex-partner, for the last twelve years, staring at the stack of papers in front of him. With one more signature, their life would be dissolved and he would be free. Until recently that idea would have terrified him, but since he learned the truth of the man he’d loved, had thought loved him, he’d spent more time than not trying to come to terms with being alone again.

“Just sign the damn papers, Tuck.” Carl nudged the cheap Bic pen closer to the papers and scowled. “There’s no point to dragging this out and you know it. It’s over.”

Oh, he knew it was over. Coming home to find his long-term lover in bed with another man was not something he was likely to ever forgive, especially not with Carl yelling at him for interrupting them with his “hysterics”. “It’s been over, Carl. It’s just hard to sign away my home like this,” Tucker said, gesturing to the papers and the only other person in the room, a notary.

“You can get a new one, now sign the fuckin’ papers and get out.” The sneer was more pronounced than before, not that Tucker cared. He still didn’t understand why Carl had done this, especially this way.

With a sigh and a deliberate eye roll—he knew how much Carl hated “juvenile” behavior—Tucker sat down again and lifted the pen. His lawyer and brother Zane had already looked it over. It was exactly as they’d agreed upon, but not only was he losing his home, his life, and most of his friends, but the bastard had insisted they do the signing at the home they’d shared, the one he was currently signing away—though for half the profits from the pending sale. “I always have such a pleasant time around you, bunny,” he singsonged as he finally put pen to paper and signed and initialed the papers.

“Don’t you dare call me that!” Carl’s voice rose enough that the sweet little girl acting as witness and notary cringed and shifted away slightly on her chair. 

“Carl, I can call you anything I damn well like, but for now, why don’t you try not to terrify those in your employ, even temporarily.” Tucker turned to face the young woman. “Katy, hon, you okay? He won’t really hurt you.”

“I-I know that, sir. Are you done?” she asked, her voice soft as her gaze flitted from the papers to Carl and back.

“Yeah, all done. Why don’t you sign and stamp everything and then I’ll walk you out. Okay?”

She nodded and smiled. A few minutes later, they exited the large two-story Victorian he’d not only lived in, but had designed the remodel of when he and Carl’d first bought the home nearly a decade ago. He hated to see it sold, but knew it was for the best. Carl didn’t want the house any longer, his new boy-toy didn’t like “weird old places,” and Tucker didn’t think he could live there, not with the constant reminders all around him of the life and love he’d lost on that horrid afternoon.

Refusing to be dragged back into the pain and memories, Tucker again thanked Katy before walking further to his Lunar Blue Metallic Mercedes SUV. The drive back to his office wasn’t long, but it still allowed for far too much time thinking, second-guessing himself and his entire life with Carl.

Tucker was thankful when his cell rang shortly before he pulled into the parking garage connected to the large office complex where Grimes, Tucker, and Bones LLC existed. Clicking his Bluetooth button, he said, “Hello, this is Tucker Vance.”

“Hello, Mr. Vance. This is Cheryl from Ramsey Library at UNC at Asheville. You requested a couple of books. I’m just letting you know they came in and are waiting for you to pick them up.”

“Thanks, Cheryl! How late are you open tonight?”

“Being it’s Friday, only until six p.m. But we’re open tomorrow too if you can’t make it in tonight.”

Tucker looked at the time, almost five now. “No, it’s fine. Thanks for the call. I’ll be in shortly.”

“Great, Mr. Vance. See you later.”

Instead of getting out of his SUV and heading inside like planned, he clicked the Bluetooth again as he backed back out of his reserved spot. “Call office.”

After verifying his request, he heard ringing before the main office secretary picked up. “Grimes, Tucker, and Bones Designs, How may I direct your call?”

“Tammi, it’s Tucker. Can you let Jon know I won’t be back and to make sure everything’s locked up?”

“Mr. Vance? Uh, sure. You want me to put you through to him?”

He chuckled. Tammi was always nervous when talking with any of the partners, but especially with him, not that he knew why. She was sweet, smart, and married so he didn’t think it was anything inappropriate on her part, but… “No, Tammi. If I talk to Jon, he’ll grill me on why and think he needs to cheer me up or something. Just let him know what I said, then make sure he actually goes home at a decent hour. Thanks.”

Jon Turmel had been his assistant for going on three years and was both fiercely loyal and protective. He also knew full well where Tucker had been and would think he was ditching the end of the day due to depression or something. He’d been annoyingly nosey since learning of his and Carl’s split. And while he appreciated the loyalty, especially now, the overbearing coddling from an employee was not amusing in the least.

“No worries, Mr. Vance. See you Monday then.”

* * *

Make sure to check out the rest of the stories from Free Fiction Friday!

The Sleepless City… Series Spotlight

Thanks, Tempe, for hosting us

The Sleepless City is a contemporary urban fantasy series which is a joint project between Anne Barwell and Elizabeth Noble. It is set in the fictional city of Flint, Ohio.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSleeplessCity

Website: http://thesleeplesscity.wordpress.com/

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Book 1: Shades of Sepia by Anne Barwell

A serial killer stalks the streets of Flint, Ohio. The victims are always found in pairs, one human and one vampire.

Simon Hawthorne has been a vampire for nearly a hundred years, and he has never seen anything like it. Neither have the other supernaturals he works with to keep the streets safe for both their kind and the humans.

One meeting with Simon finds Ben Leyton falling for a man he knows is keeping secrets, but he can’t ignore the growing attraction between them. A recent arrival in Flint, Ben finds it very different from his native New Zealand, but something about Simon makes Ben feel as though he’s found a new home.

After a close friend falls victim to the killer, Simon is torn between revealing his true nature to Ben, and walking away to avoid the reaction he fears. But with the body count rising and the murders becoming more frequent, either, or both of them, could be the killer’s next target.

Buy link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4643

“Cool. I knew you guys were like the Justice League or something.”

Lucas laughed. “I was going more for the Legion of Super Heroes, actually.”

“Yeah, but the League has Batman in it,” Blair began, “and the Legion is—” Luckily, whatever he was going to say was interrupted by the sound of a telephone ringing. Once he and Lucas started on one of their comics conversations, they’d go for what seemed forever.

“Aren’t you going to answer that?” Forge asked Simon.

“What?” Simon glanced around for the source of the ringing. He didn’t get telephone calls and had presumed the noise was coming from wherever Blair was.

“You’re the only one around here who insists on that horrible ringtone,” Forge pointed out, “so it’s obviously your phone.” He’d complained about it ever since Simon had explained—quite logically he’d thought—that if he was to carry a telephone, it made sense for it to at least sound like one.

“Try your pockets?” said Lucas helpfully.

“Oh, right.” Simon fished his telephone out of his pocket. Its screen was flashing with the name of the caller. Simon stared at it.

“You’re supposed to answer it, not stare at it,” Forge said. “Or have you forgotten how to again?”

“I know how to answer it.” Simon poked at the appropriate button, then held the telephone up to his ear. “Simon speaking. How can I help you?”

Forge snickered. Simon glared at him, thought for a moment about retreating to somewhere more private, then realized it would be a waste of time. Damn vampire hearing. Not that werewolves and ghosts were much better.

“Hey, Simon. It’s Ben.”

Perhaps he was calling to say he’d thought twice about meeting for coffee. But why would he take the time to do that? Surely if that were the case, he’d just not contact Simon again at all?

“Hello, Ben.” Simon took a couple of steps toward the door, half turning his back on the other occupants of the room.

“I rang to apologize,” Ben said, his words tumbling out over each other.

“Apologize?” Simon frowned. “Why?” If anyone should be apologizing for the way in which their conversation had ended, it should be him.

“I obviously upset you, and I’m sorry.”

“You didn’t,” Simon reassured him. “I overreacted. I do that sometimes.” He reached for his glass of milk and took a long drink. Feeling a little calmer, he collected his thoughts before breaking the silence. “Would you still like to meet for coffee?”

Lucas and Forge high fiving was something best ignored, as was the smug expression on both their faces.

“Yeah, sure, that would be great,” Ben answered very quickly. “When and where? I’m working a long shift tomorrow so that won’t work, but I don’t start until eleven on Thursday.”

After mentally consulting his calendar, Simon nodded. “That would be fine. I don’t have lectures on Thursday mornings. Do you know Hunter’s on West Thirteenth Street? We could meet there at nine.”

“I haven’t been there, but I’ll find it,” Ben said. “See you at nine then on Thursday?”

“Yes. Good-bye, Ben.”

“Bye, Ben,” called out Lucas.

“Bye….” Ben trailed off. “Hey, who is that?” His voice took on a rather suspicious tone. “Simon, is there someone listening in on us?”

“Unfortunately, yes,” Simon said. “I share my… building… with some friends who don’t understand the concept of privacy. That was Lucas. I’ll explain on Thursday.”

“Okay. Bye.”

“Good-bye,” Simon said again, this time to a darkened telephone. He shoved it back in his pocket.

“He sounds cute,” said Lucas. “I like the accent.” He grinned. “Can I come too? I want to hear how you explain me.”

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Book 2: Electric Candle by Elizabeth Noble

When a vampire finds his soul mate, the bond is forever. It’s love at first sight. Or is it?

Flint, Ohio Homicide Detective Jonas Forge has been a vampire for nearly two hundred years. He’s fought wars, seen life go from the simple but hard colonial days to the modern high tech world. He’s evolved with the times, adapting with each new era, blending into each new life. The one constant is his best friend and lover, Declan.

Until Forge’s soul mate tumbles, literally, into his life.

Even though they’re not fated to be together forever, Forge and Declan are perfectly happy. Despite the pheromone attracting him to his soul mate, Forge isn’t thrilled with the guy, and the feeling seems mutual. While trying to adjust to his clumsy soul mate and equally awkward feelings, Forge is on the hunt for the serial killer who’s leaving a trail of bodies, and who witnesses can’t identify. But Forge better watch out. When his work collides with his love life, things really heat up.

Buy link:

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4846&cPath=54_1067

No one was there, yet Forge couldn’t shake the feeling he wasn’t alone. He wandered down the beach a few yards. Water splashing against the shore and spraying up made him go closer for a better look. The lake’s edge here wasn’t gently sloping sand but a sharp lip of concrete. Hunkering on the ledge, Forge leaned over for a look.

The wall ran a good half mile in either direction. He could see large spots that were darker than the surrounding area. Forge had read about the secret rooms constructed all along Lake Erie during Prohibition. Illegal booze and guns were stashed in them. One could only access the rooms by going under water. At high tide, many of the outer parts of the rooms were completely submerged. He’d never been in one.

More than likely he’d have to get wet to justify the expense of divers. Forge was still contemplated getting a dive team in when he heard shouting.

“Stop. Wait!”

The voice sounded familiar, but Forge couldn’t place it. That always made him nuts. Turning, he looked up at the top of the stairs. Then he squinted and shook his head. Who belonged to the voice made him stare in a type of horrified wonder, like one looked at a train wreck.

The fact his cock picked then to persistently remind him of its presence and give a few twitches and throbs didn’t help.

It was a man, though the horror Forge was feeling might have been less if it’d been a woman. He wore what appeared to be homemade steampunk goggles with dark lenses, a long sleeved black shirt, and black jeans.

“Sweet mother of God, is that a cape?” Forge muttered and took a few steps forward. “No, stop, don’t—”

It was too late. The oddly dressed man began to run down the steps—the slippery, wet steps, waving his arms. He’d gone about three steps when his feet slid out from under him and his rear hit the stone stairs. The man yelped, and Forge’s cock gave another twitch. He had the fleeting thought of how disturbing on several levels that was.

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Book 3: Family and Reflection by Anne Barwell

WIP

Blurb:

As long as Lucas Coate can remember, werewolves have been taught to mistrust vampires. Lucas is an exception—he has two close friends who are vampires, friends whom he trusts with his life, just as they trust him with theirs. The werewolf pack in Flint—and their leader, Jacob Coate—have made it clear that Lucas’s friendship with vampires is something that is barely tolerated, and another transgression will be his last.

When Lucas finds out about the plague of werewolf deaths in the area, he wants to help. Can he discover a cure before it’s too late and his pack’s future is ripped away? Or is his own life already in danger?

Declan has been away from Flint for ten years, but isn’t surprised upon his return to learn that the internal politics of the Supernatural Council haven’t changed for the better. When a series of burglaries hit close to home soon after he arrives, Declan—a professional thief—is their prime suspect, although for once, he isn’t responsible.

With the council keeping secrets, no one is safe. Time is running out and for both Lucas and Declan everything is about to change.

Declan turned the page of his book, read the first paragraph and then shook his head. He wasn’t sure why he’d bothered as he couldn’t for the life of him remember what had happened on the previous page, let along the last few chapters. He closed it with a thump, got up from the table, went over to the fridge and opened it.

He wasn’t hungry, but if he had been, the mould covered plate on one of the shelves would have put him off whatever else had taken his fancy. Someone really needed to have a word with Lucas about leaving his science experiments to breed. Declan lifted the plate somewhat cautiously and sniffed it, then wished he hadn’t. City coroner or not, this wasn’t… normal. Normal people cleaned out their leftovers before they got the chance to become strange new life forms.

Even if, this case, his definition of normal was a werewolf.

But, despite his reaction, Declan couldn’t bring himself to throw the— whatever it was— away. To him it might be disgusting, but to Lucas it might be some new discovery crucial to whatever he was currently working on. And Declan didn’t want to upset Lucas. In the short time they’d know each other, he’d become quite fond of Lucas, and enjoyed the time they spent together.

Declan sighed. He returned the offending thing to its previous resting place, ignoring the visions of reanimated zombie leftovers creeping up the stairs to attack him in the middle of the night, and instead got a wine glass out of the cupboard. He poured himself a decent sized glass of his favourite red beverage and settled back down on the chair he’d recently vacated. As much as he enjoyed a good vintage wine, there were times when one had to quench one’s other thirsts. He sniffed the glass and savoured the aroma before swallowing.

Hmm, not bad. It was amazing the standard of blood that was available to purchase through the right sources. It made it so much easier to feed than it used to be, and less messy too.

He heard the light step on the stairs and the human heartbeat long before Ben reached the kitchen and stood awkwardly in the doorway. “Hello, Ben,” Declan said. “Don’t worry, you’re not disturbing me.”

“If you’re sure?” Ben Leyton ran one hand through his thick dark hair. He looked tired. “I couldn’t sleep so I thought I’d make a milo and see if that helped.”

“I heard Simon’s nightmare earlier.” Declan got up and filled the kettle. “He never did sleep well on anniversaries.” He’d known Simon Hawthorne a long time; Forge had introduced them shortly after Simon had been turned. Declan had also helped Simon through a dark part of his life which had been triggered by the events he suspected had prompted this particular nightmare, given the time of year. “I also don’t mind if you turn the light on.”

Although Declan didn’t need much light with which to see, especially with the full moon casting its glow into the room, Ben was human and would appreciate rather more illumination.

“Yeah well, they’re the worst times for most people, I guess.” Ben flicked on the light switch before walking across the kitchen. He reached into the cupboard and brought down a green can. “Do you want some? It’s a chocolate drink.”

“Thank you but no.” Declan indicated the glass in front of him.

The loud howl made him jump, the sound of it sending a shiver through him. He almost jumped, only years of practised self-control stopping him from doing so. Even so, Declan’s hairs stood on end on the back of his neck.

Lucas howled again. Frustration, anger and loss all rolled into one note of sound that was pure wolf.

Declan knocked his glass, spilling its contents. Without thinking he moved at vampire speed, catching what was left of the in his palm and drinking deeply.

The glass fell to the floor, smashing into tiny pieces. He ignored it, and finished the blood, wiping the back of his hand across his mouth. A low growl escaped his lips. He knew his eyes were completely green. They tended to do that when his fangs extended.

When he looked up Ben was staring at him, his eyes wide. “I’ll clean up the mess, shall I?” he said hurriedly, already heading for where they kept the broom.

“Don’t worry,” Declan said. “I’ll do it. Make your chocolate drink, mon ami. It’s my mess so my responsibility, yes?”

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Book 4: Checkmate by Elizabeth Noble

WIP

Blurb:

Chaos reigns in The Sleepless City and it’s really beginning to piss Detective Jonas Forge off. He’s got inner demons to joust and a life to build with his new soul mate. Nothing is going right and he already feels the universe is conspiring against him when a turn of events he never saw coming flips his world upside down.

While he and Declan confront horrors from their shared past, Simon learns a terrible truth about his kind, the vampire, he never knew or could even imagine.

Forge chuckled and Blair gifted him with another eye roll as they took up their place in the cafeteria line. He put his most charming smile on his face when a girl picked up a tray and joined the line right behind them. “Hello.”

Minor irritation skimmed the surface of Blair’s emotions, and Forge felt it plainly. The girl cocked her head to one side and flipped her hair. “Are you new here?” She asked and brushed her hand over Forge’s.

“I’m visiting.” They moved along the line and he picked up a few dishes.

“She’s a student,” Blair whispered.

Forge leaned closer to Blair, dropped his voice an octave and said, “I don’t work here.” He used what Lucas liked to refer to as ‘Forge’s fuck me’ voice.

“Oh,” the girl said. “Even better.”

Forge basked in the tidal wave of heat, desire and jealousy that swirled away from Blair to surround him.

Blair grabbed one of the dishes from Forge’s tray and put it back. “Don’t eat the mystery green stuff, it’s not broccoli.” He leaned around Forge, forcing him back a step and spoke to the girl. “You’re really barking up the wrong tree. He’s gay. He’s mine. And it’s spectacular.”

Forge shrugged and picked up his tray. “Good luck with school.”

“Table. Over there,” Blair growled.

Trailing behind him, Forge feigned innocence. “I distinctly remember you telling me to be nice to the students.”

Blair dropped his tray onto a table. “Yeah, be nice. Not use that tone and your—badge—in the way that makes them want to undress.”

“You love me for it.” Forge sat down and surveyed his food. “We could go to the new pizza place.”

Blair’s chin dropped to his chest for a second. When he looked up his eyes twinkled and he smiled. “You are a very lucky man. I don’t have time to go for pizza. It may be orgasm inducing but they’re slow. Dinner there? Just you and me?”

“Oh, now you want a date.” Forge returned the mischievous and warm smile Blair wore. “And some of this spectacular stuff.” He waved one hand down his chest and laughed when Blair kicked him under the table.

The school food was possibly some of the worst Forge had ever had, but he decided this had to be a regular thing. He liked meeting Blair for lunch. Being Blair’s soul mate ensured their love, it was liking each other they had to work at.

Their meal finished Forge walked Blair back to his office. Blair unlocked the door and at the same time Forge was doused in another wave of lust and something he could only describe as partnership. Most vampires experienced this sort of bond and empathy for one another during their initial mating. He’d understood with the majority the ability to feel each other so strongly diminished after one of them was marked. For them it only seemed to increase. Forge knew he was indeed a very lucky man.

Blair used his hand on Forge’s chest to shove him through the door and shut it softly. One of Blair’s hands cupped the back of Forge’s neck. Blair pulled them together, kissing Forge slowly, his tongue slipping into Forge’s mouth and his fangs nipping his lip. Blair wasn’t usually the aggressor, and Forge liked when he was.

He put one hand on Blair’s ass and held them close, kneading the firm flesh of Blair’s buttock slowly. All too soon Blair broke their kiss. They leaned against one another, panting. Blair trembled against Forge. “I have a late class,” Blair whispered. “Will seven be okay?”

Forge pulled in a deep breath, kissed Blair’s forehead and nodded. “I will be there.” One more sweet kiss to Blair’s lips and Forge added, “I’ll call you later.” He dipped his head at the door and at the same time cupped Blair’s face, running his thumb lightly over his cheek. “Keep them in line. I’d better get back to work.”

“Bye,” Blair said quietly and Forge thought he sounded a bit wistful.

Anne Barwell

Anne Barwell lives in Wellington, New Zealand. She shares her home with two cats who are convinced that the house is run to suit them; this is an ongoing “discussion,” and to date it appears as though the cats may be winning.

In 2008 she completed her conjoint BA in English Literature and Music/Bachelor of Teaching. She has worked as a music teacher, a primary school teacher, and now works in a library. She is a member of the Upper Hutt Science Fiction Club and plays violin for Hutt Valley Orchestra.

She is an avid reader across a wide range of genres and a watcher of far too many TV series and movies, although it can be argued that there is no such thing as “too many.” These, of course, are best enjoyed with a decent cup of tea and further the continuing argument that the concept of “spare time” is really just a myth.

Blog: http://anne-barwell.livejournal.com/

Website: http://annebarwell.wordpress.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anne.barwell.1

Dreamspinner page: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/index.php?cPath=55_426

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Elizabeth Noble

Elizabeth Noble started telling stories before she actually knew how to write, and her family was very happy when she learned to put words on a page. Those words turned into fan fiction that turned into a genuine love of M/M romance fiction. Being able to share her works with Dreamspinner is really a dream come true. She has a real love for all things sci-fi, futuristic, and supernatural and a bit of an unnatural interest in a super-volcano in Wyoming.

Elizabeth has three grown children and is now happily owned by an adorable mixed breed canine princess named Rosie, and two cats, Murphy and Yeti. She lives in her native northeast Ohio, the perfect place for gardening, winter and summer sports (go Tribe!). When she’s not writing she’s working as a veterinary nurse, so don’t be surprised to see her men with a pet or three who are a very big part of their lives.

Website  http://www.elizabeth-noble.com

Dreamspinner page: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/index.php?cPath=55_423

http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/AuthorArcade/i398-elizabeth-noble

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Elizabeth-Noble/e/B0052JEZVY

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.noble.77

Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Elizabeth-Noble/120757231345733

Google+ pages:  https://plus.google.com/110207268360224371489/posts

https://plus.google.com/b/106536309910672083581/106536309910672083581/posts/p/pub

 

 

Interview with Mistress Anya, from Blood Marked by Áine P Massie

Hello ladies and gents, Áine here. Let me start by thanking Tempeste O’Riley for graciously allowing me to take over her site for this special event.

Blood Marked
(The House Millar series, Book 2)
by Áine P Massie

With their romance only beginning to take root, the trio, Anya, Nicholas and Declán set forth to enrich their fledgling relationship. Having survived the explosive consummation should have set forth a downtime of sorts, instead, near death tragedies strike all around.

That should have been the worst of it, but toss the green-eyed monster of jealousy and all bets are off that anyone will survive the fire consuming them all.

Can Anya protect her lovers, find peace within herself, and lead the House Millar from tragedy to peace? Or will those waiting in the wings to strike them down win?

Come take a walk with our loving family and witness the strange turns and twists as life, love, and passions collide with greed, politics, and evil.

Amazon | Goodreads

Interview with Anya Millar

A lovely young woman, I believe her name was Peony, led me out onto the veranda of the beautiful home that is the House Millar. The charming Mistress Anya was already waiting on me. She even though of my human needs – a snack and drink were laid out on the small table beside the empty chair. Once I was settled Anya offered me tea as I thanked her for this rare opportunity.

Thank you for allowing me this inside peek into what makes you, you.

You are quite welcome. I don’t mind speaking to others as long and they remember the rules. *wink* Though, you have to by default, being human and all.

True. I’ll start off with an easy one. You’re a vampire?

Yes. Though I’m an aberration in my world. I refuse to kill humans just to live. I am not fluffy though – so do not underestimate me or those you see that live here. We are lethal when we need to be but humans are off the diet.

What do you do for a living?

For a living? Hum, well… I am independently wealthy thanks mostly to my beloved, Nicholas, who took care of all my finances while I was away for about three decades. I also head the House Millar, though that doesn’t exactly bring me money.

Are any other people living with you? Who are they?

Ha-ha. Of course there are. I have a House not just a house. Declán and Nicholas live upstairs with me. Also, Jonathan and Amber, Geoffrey and Peony, and most recently Louie and Simon stay in the house. I used to live with Star, my adoptive-mom, but she didn’t move to New York with us. She does visit though. *smile* We have two human friends that do not live with us but that are under our protection – Kayla, Declán’s twin sister and her girlfriend, Skye.

One of your numbers here is a human, correct?

Yes. Declán is human. Well, a Guardian which is a type of human I suppose you could say. He is soft and warm, though more lethal than most would imagine. He and Nicholas are my guards as well as my loves.

Normally I would ask you about your childhood and development but as I understand it, you have no memory of such things. Is that true?

Yes. Due to a depraved series of events I have, as Jonathan explained it, trauma based amnesia – exceedingly rare for a vampire. I occasionally have memory flashes where I do regain bits and pieces of who I was but trust me, not knowing is far superior to those flashes! I could happily not have another as long as I exists and be perfectly happy.

*Noting the pain in Anya’s voice and face I try to redirect for a moment* What makes you happy now?

Nicholas and Declán! I could not have dreamed up two better or loving men. They are everything to me. Each has different things about them that attract me but I am so truly blessed by the gods to have them in my life and heart.

Do you have an unusual ability? One that is unusual to other vampires?

Yes. Well, I’m unusual in many ways but the main one you are inquiring about – I think – is my voice. Nicholas says it’s drastically different and more powerful now than it was when he knew me the first time.

What is your greatest fear?

That would have to be losing Declán. I know it will happen, problem of being a human, but he puts himself in danger by being around all of us. Worse though is that he is a Guardian, a vampire hunter, and that tends to endanger his continued existence.

Would it be easier if you knew you would see him grow old naturally and die peacefully?

No. In theory it should but losing him no matter the circumstances is horrid to me. Nicholas is just the same though he tends to deal with Declán’s combat training and use better than I – or at least he pretends to… I wonder some days.

What about the fact you have two loves? Are they involved also?

Yes, I love both Nicholas and Declán. If you want to know more about our relationship you will just have to read ‘Blood’s Voice.’ Sorry.

As to their relationship… you will have to ask them. While I do know the answer, a relationship, no matter what kind, should only be spoken about from one of those involved.

Fair enough. What would you change about yourself if you could?

Most would think I would say my vampirism but in truth, I’d rather change my mental instability. I don’t actually mind being a vampire, even with all the pain and torment I receive for being an aberration in my world.

What is one thing that you have never told anyone?

Well now, if I tell you that it would mean it’s no longer available to answer. *grins* Seriously, I don’t really keep secrets from those I love so if you’ve read my story so far in ‘Blood’s Voice’ you already know what’s inside me. Well, as well as I even know myself, that is. Being without a memory and slightly twisted means I don’t always know quite what I’m thinking.

One last question then. Based on your morals being so strict about not killing, how do you feel about what you’ve done either while in a memory flash or while rescuing your one love? Thankfully you didn’t have to rescue them both!

I don’t like to kill. It’s part of why I’m looked down on in the vampire world. The catch to that is I am very good at killing. With rare exception I do not feel guilt about the death I have caused because they were not worthy of life, in my opinion. That is a bit harsh, I know, but seriously… how can I feel guilty for stopping someone that kills indiscriminately and revels in causing others pain? But even with that said, I am only dangerous to those that would harm humans or my family. As you will find out in the next book Áine is writing about my House, I can play nice with others, when they keep their fangs to themselves.

One that note I think I will retire. I can see your loves waiting, patiently, for you at the edge of the veranda. I know you have things to do. Thank you again for taking time out of your busy schedule to visit with me and those that would like to know more about you.

*smile*

The pleasure was mine. Declán will walk to out. While none in my House would nibble on you, there are others out there that don’t have the best manners. *wink*

*Also, Blood’s Voice is on sale this month, in honour of Blood Marked’s release!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Áine P Massie is originally from Florida, she now lives in Wisconsin, where she works on her House Millar series full-time while raising four children (the term herding cats comes to mind). Her major in College was Childhood Education (specializing in ages zero to five) with a minor study in Deaf Culture/ASL. She is also a Wiccan priestess dedicated to the gods, family, and love.

Áine is a proud member of the Rom-Critters, the Romance Writers of America®, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and Rainbow Romance Writers. Áine has always had a particular fascination with vampires, mythology, and the unusual. When she can escape from her children and books, she enjoys… oh yes, reading, playing, ritual, a good cappuccino, and working with her healing stones.

Her first published work came in high school where she was part of a writing and drama group. However, she’s been reading the likes of Shakespeare and Poe since late elementary school and enjoys most forms of fiction.

Site | Blog | Facebook ~ House Millar | Facebook ~ Author

Twitter | Goodreads | Google+ | Amazon

Hope and Love Anthology…

Did you know I’m part of an anthology releasing in September? Yep, it’s true! It’s a donation anthology; all proceeds go to the MKE LGBT Community Center in Milwaukee, WI.

To stay up to date and to check out the other great authors, visit https://www.facebook.com/events/258535541009712/.