Category: Self Published

Uncorked 01 – 04 by Shea Balik

Title: Bubbly

Series: Uncorked 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Shea Balik (October 19, 2017)

Length: Novella

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

There was no doubt about it, Macalister Whitmore was as straight-laced as they came. He worked all the time, never did anything that would be considered fun, and almost always wore a suit and tie, even in the laid back southern town of Dahlonia, where the dress code tended to be jeans and t-shirts. It was how his parents raised him and Macalister was sure even a tanning salon couldn’t change that.

David Wilson wanted to throttle his best friend for sending Mac to his tanning salon to try and loosen up the uptight lawyer. He had never met anyone that had actually worn a suit to a tanning salon before. What Mac needed was a doctor to remove that stick from his ass. Then again, if Mac continued to look down his nose at David, he would remove it himself.

Still, it seemed that opposites do attract, so they decide to give each other a chance.

Happily ever after may sound like a dream come true, but no one ever said it didn’t come with pain and heartache. Will they walk away from each other, or walk through hell for the chance to pop some Bubbly and celebrate finding their happy ending?

ISBN:

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

A brand new series by one of my favorite authors, and I knew right off the bat I had to read it. She creates worlds that are funny as hell, with a serious tone to parts of it and some interesting times to find. The characters are fully developed just as the story itself is.

Mac is a focused on work and no fun. From the time he was born his parents told him what he was going to do and where he would work. He got his law degree and went to work where they wanted, but then he decided to think for himself. Now he was a lawyer for the people. So his friends decided to help him out. They sent him to get a tan.

David was a pretty good guy and loved owning his own business. He gave tans out, and it didn’t always turn out well. Guys thought it meant he was up for anything. Then he was told about Mac, and man is that guy just meant to be punched. However he looks underneath the facade, and well things heat up.

It is a pretty good story although the characters both needed to be swatted. I had a lot of fun reading this and definitely would recommend it.

Title: Full Bodied

Series: Uncorked 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 14, 2017)

Length: Novella (124pgs)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

For Nolan Woods, life had been a miserable existence that had left him lonely and depressed. Nothing had ever seemed to go his way. It was his own fault for being such a loser, but it would still be nice if just once he had something end up in his favor. Unfortunately, for that to happen he’d have to put down the food he loved so much.

West Baxter led a charmed life. In college, he and his friends had decided to open a winery, allowing him to travel and meet new people. It had been a playboy lifestyle but when he met Nolan Woods, he found himself longing to settle down instead. Too bad their new winery needed him out on the road to sell their wines it they ever hoped of being the success they had dreamed about.

Nolan’s misery had him taking drastic action to change himself. He never thought in a million years anyone would like him as he was. But before he could go under the knife, West had finally had enough of life on the road and seduced Nolan.

Suddenly Nolan no longer knew what to do. He didn’t believe West would ever be able to love him as he was, but if he told West his plans West just might realize what a loser Nolan was and leave him even sooner. Either way, Nolan had to pray that West would understand that Nolan could no longer be Full Bodied.

ISBN: 9781370030200

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a new romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

Nolan is a sweet young man who has just a slight little problem. He is overweight and needs to lose it. Not only for his health but for his happiness. All through growing up and into adulthood he had been teased and bullied. He left home hoping never to come back. That all ended when his mother called him about his fathers death, and begged him to come home. So getting a job at the winery sounded good. He just hadn’t expected to have a crush on one of the bosses.

West was that boss, the one Nolan had a crush on. Sexy as all get out, he has a big heart as well. He has wanted Nolan from the start, but had decided he needed to take his time. He traveled quite a bit for the business and wasn’t yet ready to give it up. That is until he found Nolan in tears.

This is a cute story that made my day. I had a blast reading it and the characters were just perfect for it. This story caught my attention from the moment I started reading and kept it all the way to the end. It has a fully developed plot that will keep you entertained, and some pretty hot sex. I can not wait to get my hands on the next story.

Title: Blush

Series: Uncorked 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (184 Pages)

Publisher: Shea Balik (November 29, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

Fifteen years ago, Kadyn Bellamy and Valor Lee had blown any chance of building a future together. Valor had joined the CIA to hunt down terrorists and Kadyn abhorred violence. At the time, their differences had seemed insurmountable.

When Valor shows up in Dahlonia looking as hot as ever, Kadyn needs to decide if he can reconcile their divergent viewpoints. The choice wasn’t as easy as it might seem. If only the love he’d felt for Valor had diminished, he could easily walk away. It didn’t seem fair that he might have to give up the love of his life, twice.

All Valor wanted was the future he and Kadyn had dreamed. For fifteen years, his love for Kadyn had only grown. He’d known when he’d walked away from Kadyn all those years ago, it would be a challenge to convince Kadyn they could still make their dreams come true.

It was only when tragedy struck, that Kadyn was forced to come to grips with the past. With eyes wide open, he was ready to take a step into the future. He just needed to decide if Valor would be a part of it or not

ISBN: B077PVX6MD

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

I came across Shea when she came out with the first book in the Cedar Falls collection. From that moment on I knew that she was going to become a favorite of mine. They seem to always have a quirky character in them, one that will always have you laughing your ass off. It seems that she has went on with that with the rest of her books. It is one of the things that I love the most.

Then there is an alpha male that our men fall in love with, as well as one that has had a rough time. However sometimes both men have had a bad tumble in life. With this story it has a deeper story inside. When wanting peace, it does take a bit of violence to get there. This story will have you in tears and also laughing.

Valor and Kadyn were lovers many years before and had been in love. With violence, brought in Valor’s desires to protect his family, friends and country. His father had been killed by terrorist, and he wanted to make those pay. He joined the CIA to make that work, but in doing so he destroyed what he had had with the man he loved.

Kadyn had lost his father to a violent act, all because of a football game. He went in the opposite direction as Valor. He was always wanting peace and never could stand violence. He saw a darker side to Valor, but his heart had been torn in two, when the man he loved chose the CIA to him. They went their own way.

Now fifteen years later, and Valor was back. He wanted the man he loved back with him. It was not going so well though. When Chet and Leo are attacked, and Chet fighting for his life, it brings Kadyn into focus. He was seeing why Valor had made the choice.

I am mostly on Kadyn side of the coin so to speak, violence only seems to bring more violence. However I can also understand Valor as well. Human’s seem to need the violence in their lives sometimes. There will never be peace completely. Shine was a big kick in this story, and can’t wait to read his. I think I actually loved this book even more then the others, but what a struggle our sexy Leo and Chet will have to go through. I really can’t wait to get to their story.

I enjoyed reading this and can guarantee that it will be read many times over. I had a lot of fun reading this and can not wait to get my hands on the next book. I can guarantee that this book will have you crying in your crackers. I loved it and would recommend it to all.

Shea Balik - Shine Cover 3845h4nTitle: Shine

Series: Uncorked 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (193pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 8, 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Raise your wine glasses high to toast the men of Dahlonia while they discover the secret to happiness – LOVE.

Shine was over people thinking because he had a southern accent, and made moonshine, that he was a hillbilly redneck with no education. Sure, he occasionally liked to fuck with them and spout out his grandpappy’s sayings, like every dog should have a few fleas, but that didn’t make him dumber than a box of rocks. So, when he met a man who made his heart race and his mouth go dry with the thought of licking every inch of his body, then instantly put him down because he was making moonshine instead of wine, Shine dared him to try and drink with the big boys.

Montague knew better than to take the challenge to drink the moonshine Shine was offering, but he refused to be insulted by some hick from this small, backwater town. The fire that ignited in his stomach and burned a path up his throat, making him want to cry for his mommy, told him just how stupid he could be. Fucking pride. If Shine didn’t get that smirk off his face at Montague’s reaction to the battery acid he called alcohol, Montague was going to punch him in the mouth. Or kiss him. It was a tough call to make.

There is a fine line between love and hate, especially when alcohol is involved. Then again, it might take a little liquid courage to drop their defenses enough to discover their passion for each other.

ISBN: 978-1-37063-179-7

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Uncorked collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.

To me there is nothing better than a good romance between two sexy men. If those me just so happen to throw sparks off and have some humor going on, then the better. I came across this author some time ago and knew she was going to be one that I would follow. Her stories always have just a bit of conflict in them, lots of humor, hot sex and some good old fashion loving.

When people find out that Shine talks with a southern accent and deals with moonshine, they tend to throw him to the curb and call him a redneck hillbilly with no brains. That is what happens when he comes across Montague. The truth is, Shine is probably one of the smartest men around.

Montague has never really had a job, just a few part-time ones here and there. He has a job now as tour guide, but the creep he works for is asking for a bit more then our sexy man is willing to give. Now the first time Montague and Shine meet, it doesn’t go down so well. But he might be the only one willing to give Montague a full time job and help.

Sparks fly and so do the clothes when these two finally get it together. You mix that in with some powerful alcohol and we will see what happens with these two. Great story with likable characters. I always did get a kick out of this series, and definitely can’t wait to get my hands on the next one. But I will leave the drinking to those who can handle the crazy alcohol that Shine makes.

Druid’s Curse series 01 – 08 by Shea Balik

Shea Balik - The End Of Darkness Cover 475yhnTitle: The End of Darkness

Series: Druid’s Curse 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (200pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (April 15, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Ryley Duggan resented his family for forcing him home on his twenty-first birthday to perform another stupid fire ritual, instead of letting him go out and get shit-faced like normal people his age. He’d never believed in the stories his grandmother told him about the reason behind what they were doing. That was, until he walked outside to the bonfire to see bloodcurdling creatures that no Hollywood studio had ever come close to replicating, killing his family.

Since an early age, Eirik had one job, to protect the descendants of the one who’d cursed him and his friends. It hadn’t been what he’d ever imagined for his life, but after nearly a millennia Eirik had learned one thing, life never went as planned. Never had that been truer than when he’d rescued Ryley from certain death.

Now the two must learn to work together to save humanity. Will all be lost? Or will they discover a way to heal their hearts by opening themselves up to love?

WARNING: Unseelie monsters run amok in this story!

ISBN: B07QFNB7HN

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: After watching his family be massacred by fae minions Ryley and his sister Meghan travel with Eirik, the man who saved them, to his home. What he learns will change his life. Eirik is cursed to protect druid families for centuries. He is a warrior through and through. When he meets Ryley he has no idea what is in store for them. But soon learns they are meant to be together.

I loved the entire book. The battles were fierce. I also loved meeting all the brothers and hope that each get their own stories. Fen was an enigma to me as his part is glossed over. I also wanted to know whose mate cursed the brothers because at one point in the story it says a druid did yet in another part it says Fen’s mate did so I was confused, unless I read it wrong.

Aside from that it was a wonderful beginning to a series that I hope continues. Fantastic read.

Fantastic read.

Shea Balik - A Flicker Of Hope Cover 46gtc3Title: A Flicker of Hope

Series: Druid’s Curse 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novella (139pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (May 29, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Kegan Tulach already knew that monsters were real. He’d faced them. Watched in horror as they killed those he loved. Then run from them. It was his response for the past two years. But now, on his twenty-first birthday, running wasn’t an option. He had no where to go. It was time for him to face his worst nightmare.

There weren’t many people who could do what Bjorn did. Fight monsters and live to tell the tale. It was a job thrust upon him as a kid. If he had known the true hell that would be cursed upon him, he would have preferred to die even though he’d only been fourteen at the time. Now, years later, he had hope that the curse would come to an end. The question was, would he choose the death he’d so desperately craved for more than a millennia, or would he do the one thing he swore he’d never do? Choose love.

If Kegan and Bjorn can find a way past their fears, they may discover something worth living for – each other.

This is a stand alone with an HEA, but reading the first book is recommended for full enjoyment.

ISBN: B07RX4DZPK

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Bjorn and Kegan’s story continues the series. Bjorn finds Kegan in a fight for his life. Injured Kegan does what he can to help but ends up passing out. Bjorn takes Kegan and flees. Recuperating in different areas the two finally make it Bjorn’s home.

I liked the entire story. Each of stories contain a different element at play and I was intrigued by Kegans gift. Bjorn was tough yet sweet. I am looking forward to reading about who else in Bjorn’s group finds their mate as well as what the druid’s power will be when they find them,

Fantastic read.

Shea Balik - A Menacing Tempest Cover 56tg4Title: A Menacing Tempest

Series: Druid’s Curse 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novella (176pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (June 14, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: When it came to defense, or offense when needed, Cullen McIntyre thought he was prepared. It wasn’t until he watched as monsters he’d never knew existed walked out of thin air to kill members of his family, twice, that Cullen realized how wrong he’d been. By the third time he’d come face to face with those determined to kill him and the rest of his family for doing their duty, Cullen knew he needed help, and lots of it.

The moment Ulf laid eyes on Cullen, he’d been enthralled by the man’s resolve to protect what was left of his family. Being shot and left for dead by Cullen should have cooled his desire for the fiery man, but it only made him want him more. By the time he caught up to Cullen, Ulf knew, without a doubt, the druid was destined to be his. Now he just needed to convince Cullen of that.

As Cullen and Ulf join their friends to fight the monsters from the realm of the Fae, they find there is a new threat waiting to get through the Veil. A threat they might not be able to defeat. Will Ulf & Cullen get their chance at happily ever after, or will the Fae finally succeed in their quest to destroy the veil?

ISBN: B07SRF98TT

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved this story. Cullen is fierce and knows how to fight. He booby traps the property for protection against the monsters sent to kill him and his family. Ulf arrives to help but ends up injured by one of the traps.

The two meet again when they arrive at Ulf’s home separately.

I loved these two together. Ulf and Cullen both are determined and protective of those they love. The series is intriguing and keeps your attention from start to finish.

I am looking forward to reading more about the cursed men and the situations that happen when each find their mates as well as the fae.

Fantastic read. Highly recommended.

Shea Balik - Fatal Frost Cover 563hmb4Title: Fatal Frost

Series: Druid’s Curse 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

Length: Novella (189pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (August 23, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: No way was Arne going to allow fate to chain him to a guy who thought all creatures, even those determined to kill you, were worthy of saving. Arne was a Viking warrior, death was his thing and he was damned good at it.

Dermot Kincaid believed all of God’s creations deserved respect. He was a pacifist at heart, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t stand up for himself. Even when that meant getting retribution against the asshole who thought he was better than anyone else.

When Arne and Dermot are attacked, they must find common ground so they can work together to defeat the enemy. If they can’t, they may not just risk losing, but they also risk their hearts developing a Fatal Frost.

ISBN: B07WJVB8JM

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved this story about Dermot and Arne. Arne was an ass to Dermot thinking Dermot was a coward. Dermot for his part always made Arne pay for his nasty comments by freezing him, which was hilarious. Gillie, Dermot’s three year old nephew was so adorable throughout the story.

Everything about this book appealed to me in every way. You learn a little more about the past from Dermot and the journals he has of Aed’s. Theories are talked about the rituals and the fae getting through. There are tense situations that had me on the edge of my seat awaiting the outcome.

Each book there is a new druid with a power to help combat the fae. I am so looking forward to the next book to see who comes next in the series and what their mates power will be.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Shea Balik - Beneath the Surface Cover s dhr746Title: Beneath the Surface

Series: Druid’s Curse 05

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (193pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (September 7, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: His whole life Hrafn had been ridiculed for his inability to always understand things. He was slower than others when it came to comprehending the world around him, but that didn’t mean he didn’t want what everyone else did – love. Yet, he was sure that would never happen for him, for who could ever learn to love someone like him?

With a knock on the door, Teagan’s world had been changed. Unsure how life could be so cruel and take his family from him, Teagan struggled to find meaning in his life. Searching for his ancestry led him to the place where the origins of his family tree began. If he’d known his being there would bring hell upon earth to that small town, he never would have come. Then again, if he hadn’t, he never would have met his fate.

Hrafn and Teagan must find a way to break down the barriers of their past so they can see what is Beneath the Surface if they hope to find their eternal love.

PLEASE NOTE: Although each book is about a different couple, these books should be read in order for maximum enjoyment!

ISBN: 9780463820445

Product Link: Smashwords | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved this story about Hrafn and Teagan. This is full of twists and turns as Teagan learns of the others and their powers. Along with secrets revealed as to who the group of druid friends are descended from.

A new threat is revealed that causes the group to double their efforts in training and protecting each other. I have loved Hrafn from the very first book. He is so sweet and caring. His past is sad and horrible and I really felt empathy for him. Teagan seemed to be the balm that helped him heal what he thought of himself.

I thought Teagan and Hrafn were fierce in the face of their enemies. They fought with a determined passion to vanquish all threats. Another thrilling addition to the series.

Fantastic read and I highly recommend the entire series. They must be read in order as each book picks up where the last leaves off.

Shea Balik - Mind Over Matter Cover tneu74Title: Mind Over Matter

Series: Druid’s Curse 06

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Paranormal, Fantasy

Length: Novel (191pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (September 27, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Who would have thought there was something more horrifying than an indoor boy being forced to live in the Amazon? Yet, there was. In fact, the more descriptive word would be mind-numbingly terrifying. That it was brought into his life by a drop dead gorgeous man claiming he was there to protect Wylie, only made everything that much more surreal.

Since the first druid came into their lives, Fritjof prayed he would never meet the druid that was destined to be his fated love. He knew that emotion would always lead to devastation and heartache. He’d seen it, experienced it, when his mother disowned him for not being able to save his father.

But what happens when the Fae goes after someone they both love? Will they be able to find a way to trust in each other? Are some things impossible to overcome or is it Mind Over Matter?

PLEASE NOTE: Although each book in this series focuses on a different couple, to best enjoy the overall story arc, these books SHOULD be read in order.

ISBN: B07XVLTV5N

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: In the continuing saga of the viking warrior’s being sent out to protect a prophesied druid from the fae it is Fritjof’s turn to find Wylie. He travels to the Amazon and discovers more than he bargained for. Hell bent on keeping his distance from Wylie all while protecting him becomes impossible.

Wylie is a fierce young man who laughs but yet hides his pain behind said laughs. The two get off to a rocky start as they both try to hide how they really feel for one another. It takes being attacked by Wylie’s niece’ father, a fae and him kidnapping her, for them to realize that they need to own up to their feelings if they have any hope of rescuing Tess.

I loved everything about this story. This series must be read in order as each book picks up where the previous one ends with a new couple in each addition. I’m excited to see what else happens in this thrilling series.

Fantastic read.

Shea Balik - Tears of Life Cover ernej54Title: Tears of Life

Series: Druid’s Curse 07

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (188pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (October 13, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Mingus had one true love in life, animals. None of them were off the list, although, if he were completely honest, his favorite was his cat, Pretty Baby. He never imagined one day he might have to put someone else first. Not just anyone, but the man who has stolen his heart.

For centuries Oluf has dreamed of finding the one destined to be his. He’d even anticipated the need to woo him by becoming a chef. After all, according to his mother, the way to a man’s heart was through his stomach. What he hadn’t expected was that he would come in second to a cat with sharp claws, who seemed to enjoy using people as her personal scratching post.

As Mingus, Oluf, and their friends get closer to Samhain, the Fae will try to stop them using everything at their disposal. It means finding a way to work together, even if it takes shedding a few Tears of Life to do so. But in the end, will the fate of the human world come down to a cat?.

ISBN: B07Z427WC5

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved Mingus and Oluf’s story. A lot takes place in this exciting addition as the group once again begin to make plans for the ritual. I was impressed by Mingus and was awed when his ability made itself known in a huge way. Mingus’ cats story was so sad it brought tears to my eyes.

The Unseelie and Seelie both made it known what they wanted in different ways. But it was the near the end that both broke my heart and angered me at what happened to Kyleigh and what of Fin. I hope to find out more about them in the next book and to see all eight druid’s in action.

These books must be read in order to enjoy them fully as each picks up where the last leaves off. I highly recommend this intriguing series with it’s colorful characters a well as their unique abilities in each book.

Each story is brought to life with an amazing cast of people as well as an epic plot that has evolved from book one.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Shea Balik - Mending The Rift Cover cnz47hTitle: Mending the Rift

Series: Druid’s Curse 08

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novel (211pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (October 31, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: The END is NEAR!

The Fae must be defeated if Brandr and Logan hope to find their happily ever after. Only by working together will have any chance of Mending the Rift and saving humanity.

The end would be upon Brandr and his friends soon. The only question, would Brandr be able to find his fated one in time? He feared he was too late when he arrived to find the field empty. Then the Veil opens again and hell rains down upon him as the Unseelie pets attack. But when Brandr was too injured to move, the Druid he was destined to claim as his own flees in terror. Talk about demoralizing.

That did not happen. Not even in some weird fantasy could Logan have imagined that a dead man could come back to life. And he had definitely been dead, since Logan had to put his head back on his body. But when he was faced with the truth, that the man was immortal, Logan has to admit to being…intrigued.

But as Samhain draws closer, the danger around them increases as the Fae converge. The Fae must be defeated if Brandr and Logan hope to find their happily ever after. Only by working together will have any chance of Mending the Rift and saving humanity.

ISBN: 9780463570180

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: This story was so good with the addition of Logan and the new kids. I loved Brandt and Logan together. Logan’s power was off the charts and very much needed in this addition. As with the others in the series you get a well written beautiful story about druid’s needing to stop the fae from coming through a rift and taking over. There were heart stopping moments that had me on the edge of my seat.

A lot happens throughout. There are twists and turns that I thoroughly enjoyed. I am sad this is the last book. I wanted more about Fen considering Aed cursed him as well. Even though he helped the vikings he was more in the background. I wanted to know how he escaped the fae. Is there a love interest for him, as eternity is a long time to spend alone and Aed never said in the curse he could not find someone for him.

I loved the entire series. Each druid possess a unique ability that will help mend the rift. But Logan was the last one needed to accomplish this. A Fantastic end to an amazing series.

Highly recommended.

Believe series (01 – 04) by Shea Balik

Title: Christmas Miracle

Series: Believe 01

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary, Holidays

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 18, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts

Blurb: At a very early age, Ben learned that, in life, there was no such thing as something to believe in. What was the point? Each time he did, someone would come along and prove to him how wrong he was. The fact that his sister died by a drunk driver, who’d walked away without a scratch, and forcing Tobias to move to Texas — one of the most homophobic states in the country — to take care of his now motherless nieces, drove home just how cruel life could be. How was he supposed to help two of the sweetest kids he’d ever known deal with the hell their life would be without the one person they’d depended on, when he was fairly certain, his moving to Texas would only show them how horrible people could be to one another?

Darius had seen things that would make most people cringe in revulsion and dread. His parents had traveled, with Darius in tow, all around the world to help those in need. So tragedy wasn’t something new to him. As terrible as some of it had been, Darius had also seen the kindness and sacrifice people made to help others. He was a true believer in the goodness of humanity.

Determined to help Ben discover that though he may have had hit a few bumps in the road growing up, he’d also met people who had been there for him, helping him when they didn’t have to get involved. For life might not always be perfect and at times even cruel, but it was also wonderful and kind if one knew where to look.

Ben had to admit that Darius was causing him to look at the world differently. That there might be a chance he’d been only looking for the negative. But, for him, there was one more test that the world would have to pass for him to truly change and it would take a Christmas Miracle to do it.

ISBN: B0788PJ1DF

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A heartwarming story that will make you sad, happy and laugh. Ben gets called home to take care of his nieces after his sisters death. While at the funeral he meets the minister Darius when he comes to his rescue after Ben’s mother starts up with him.

I did not like Ben’s prejudice, homophobic mother. She really got on my nerves. Thankfully Darius was always there to help.

I loved the life changing aspects of the book and how each character dealt with certain situations.

Great read.

Shea Balik - Christmas Magic Cover 745jfgTitle: Christmas Magic

Series: Believe 02

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Contemporary, Holidays

Length: Novel (192pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 14, 2018)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Do you believe in the magic of Christmas? Tim Richards didn’t, so why had he thought he could make a Christmas wish and have it come true?

Much to his surprise, he met the man of his dreams when Nick Snow walked into his world and turned it upside down. The life he had always hated was becoming something from a dream and more than anything he could have ever possibly imagined. For Tim, to believe childhood fantasies could come true, was impossible.

Nick Snow tended to only think about work. That was, until he met Tim. He’d never imagined anyone would ever come between him and his career. Now he knew that there was so much more to life than a job.

Can Nick show Tim that Christmas Magic is real?

Warning: This book contains frivolity, laughter, and a lot of sex. Nothing is off the table when these two figure out if their reality is nothing more than fantasy, or if their fantasies can become reality, with faith in a little Christmas Magic..

ISBN: B07L24LCB9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Tim’s life consists of working several jobs to make ends meet. He wishes for something better in his life but thinks it won’t happen. When he meets Nick his life takes a turn he never dreamed would be possible.

Nick is sweet and attentive as he learns about Tim’s life or lack there of. He has all the confidence that Tim will succeed when he gets a new job at a toy store. Along with that Nick dazzles him with things Tim never experienced as a child.

I loved everything about this story. It was heart warming to see so much happiness brought Tim’s way after all he had endured. Fantastic read.

Shea Balik - Christmas Gift Cover 57tnmgTitle: Christmas Gift

Series: Believe 03

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (150pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 15, 2019)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: It’s Christmas and time for those who celebrate to spend hours finding the perfect gifts for those they love. Which also means long lines, angry and rude shoppers who are willing to fight so they can buy their own gifts at fifty percent off, and dealing with overworked and irritated store employees who are out of patience and good cheer. Right?

Except this year, Patrick and Cabot have discovered that the best gift of all doesn’t require any shopping, lines, or rude people. Just the willingness to open one’s heart. For they are not only giving the greatest gift of all, they’re receiving it, too. A family.

Join them on this journey as they discover what the true meaning of giving is. It will take believing in the magic of Christmas, but in return they just might receive the most amazing Christmas Gift ever – a happily ever after. .

ISBN: B082T2ZRV9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A sweet story about two men, Patrick and Cabot, who find each other are exactly what the other needs. Patrick is looking to adopt the two children, Maya and Liam, he is taking care of. Cabot is looking for someone to love.

The family find joy in everything they do together and it shows. I loved how in tune Cabot was to the kids and Patrick. Patrick for his part was adorable when flustered.

Fantastic read.

Shea Balik - Christmas List Cover vyhv6hTitle: Christmas List

Series: Believe 04

Author: Shea Balik

Genre: Holiday, Contemporary

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Shea Balik (December 18, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Winter was Gabriel Wells’ favorite time of year. Having been born in Colorado, snow was in his veins. When his life turned upside down and he ended up in Florida for the winter, Gabriel didn’t handle it well. Who was he kidding? He fucked up royally.

Timmy Shaw had always believed people deserved a second chance to make a first impression. As an occupational therapist, he didn’t always meet people when they were at their best. But after a month, he was sure Gabriel had to have ice in his veins considering how he treated others, especially the man’s own mother.

What neither man realized? There’s a thin line between love and hate. Any other time, they may not have had a chance, but it’s Christmas and miracles are happening everywhere. It may take some work, but if they can find common ground, they may have a chance at happily ever after with the help of a special Christmas List.

ISBN: B08R27DHQ9

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Gabriel is stuck in Florida caring for his mother after she has a stroke. He’s not happy and it shows. His mom’s physical therapist helps Dottie to try to be independent again and takes Gabriel to task for the things he says about his mother.

Things change when Timothy’s mom suggests that Gabriel is scared of losing his mother and acting out so they devise a plan to get him to relax by coming up with things to do that are similar to what he did in Colorado.

I loved this story so much. As someone who had something similar to a stroke years ago I could relate to what Dottie was going through. Gabriel for his part began to realize the way he treated his mother and Timothy. The things they did together were funny and sweet and with time Gabriel changed for the better.

Fantastic read.

Bound by Rhys Ford Blog Tour, Guest Post & Giveaway!

Rhys Ford - Bound banner

Hiya guys! We have Rhys Ford visiting today with the tour for her new release Bound, we have a brilliant guest post from Rhys, and we have an amazing $20 GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Rhys Ford - Bound Cover ng7nf

Bound

(Chinatown Demons 01)
by

Rhys Ford

Chinatown, San Francisco.

A different place — another time— and where the city’s streets keep secrets, shadowy mysteries SFPD Inspector Spencer Ricci needs to dig through after he finds himself on a case involving a dismembered, mummified man in a restaurant’s locked storage room.

Spencer drags around a lot of baggage, including an ongoing battle with the bottle and a long career as an LAPD detective he’d set fire to in a blaze of booze-soaked mistakes. San Francisco is supposed to be a new start but his old ghosts haunt him, beckoning him back into his self-destructive bad habits. Bad habits that include contemplating doing dirty things with the wrong kind of guy and this time, it’s a sleek, cold-tempered medical examiner named Xian Carter with a complicated reputation.

For a century-old demon, Xian Carter is content with his secretive life. Hiding his nature from the mundane world, he blends in with the city’s inhabitants as best he can but even the best of predators make mistakes. Delving into the mysteries of the dead provide a welcome distraction from endless nights and hiding in plain sight amuses him, until something supernaturally wicked comes knocking on his door with an extremely hot, broody Inspector close behind.

Murder makes for strange bedfellows and this one is no exception. The twists and turns of the case leaves Xian and Spencer on a wild goose chase after clues but Xian can only hope there’s a human at the end of the trail—because the last thing San Francisco needs is another predator.

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK | Kobo | B&N ❣️**.•.•.

Continue reading “Bound by Rhys Ford Blog Tour, Guest Post & Giveaway!” →

Wonderland by J. Scott Coatsworth Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt & Giveaway!

Wonderland - J. Scott Coatsworth

J. Scott Coatsworth has a new gay post-zombie apocalypse Christmas book out:

Wonderland.

And there’s a giveaway!

Zeke is a hermit in his late forties who lives a quiet life in a small cabin in the Western Montana mountains, a few miles outside of Thompson Falls. He’s gotten used to being alone since the end of the world, and has everything he needs. Everything but someone to talk to.

Nathan is a younger man on a cross-country trek, searching the country for someone… anyone still alive. Saddled with a ghost from his old life and a case of OCD, he stumbles upon Thompson Falls and a pack of rabid dogs.

Rescued by Zeke, he has to figure out how to be human again. And with Christmas just a week away, both men have to figure out if there’s something left to be hopeful for, and if they might have a future together.

Get it At Amazon

Giveaway

Win a $15 Amazon gift card OR a signed paperback trilogy of the Ariadne Cycle 1st Edition (The Stark Divide, The Rising Tide, & The Shoreless Sea, USA Only)! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47162/?

Exclusive Excerpt!

Zeke removed the board that kept the Grocery Surplus doors closed and pushed them open. He always barricaded it when he left to keep out animal intruders. One time early on, he’d startled a bear inside, licking up honey off the floor. It had given him quite a scare before it lumbered past him and out of the store.

Out back, four makeshift wooden crosses marked the plots where he’d buried Redd Johnson, the owner, and the three others he’d found dead inside.

The checkout counters were covered in a heavy layer of dust he’d never bothered to clean. The plastic grocery sacks had hardened and flaked into little piles of white that swirled like snowflakes whenever the wind blew in from outside.

He picked up one of the faded cardboard boxes that used to hold Hershey bars. They were long gone. He had eaten a lot of chocolate in the first twelve months.

The store was out of most of the good stuff now, taken in the initial panic or used by Zeke. It was down to cans of the aforementioned Brussels sprouts and spinach, as well as green beans, canned tomatoes, and Dole fruit salad. Just another indication it was time to move on.

One corner of the ceiling had caved in since the last time he’d been there. He approached the pile of debris in the produce section of the store cautiously. The fruits and vegetables had long since rotted away.

He looked up at the new damage. The hole didn’t go all the way through to the roof, just through the interior ceiling. A couple boxes lay crumpled on the ground.

With a leery glance at the broken edges—must have been some kind of storage up there—he opened one of the boxes to see what was inside. It was a disassembled Christmas tree, probably for holiday displays.

Christmas. It had been a long time since he’d celebrated that holiday—or any of them, for that matter—not since his mother had passed away when he was ten. She had owned a tree just like this and had put it up every year. She’d been an environmentalist, not wanting to kill a living thing just to celebrate a man-made holiday.

Zeke glared at the tree and grunted. It wasn’t like he needed any more crap in his little cabin.

He closed his eyes, and he could still see her face, lit by the glow of the Christmas lights. “It’s the one time of the year when we all have to be nice to each other,” she’d whispered to him once, shooting a glance at his father, asleep in his easy chair. Zeke could still smell her sweet perfume. His father had been a rough man. Rough but fair.

“What the hell.” He hauled the box out to the ATV and transferred the metal branches into his sack.

Author Bio

J. Scott Coatsworth
Scott lives with his husband Mark in a yellow bungalow in Sacramento. He was indoctrinated into fantasy and sci fi by his mother at the tender age of nine. He devoured her library, but as he grew up, he wondered where all the people like him were.

He decided that if there weren’t queer characters in his favorite genres, he would remake them to his own ends.

A Rainbow Award winning and runs Queer Sci Fi, QueeRomance Ink, Liminal Fiction, and Other Worlds Ink with Mark, sites that celebrate fiction reflecting queer reality, and is a full member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America (SFWA).

Author Website: https://www.jscottcoatsworth.com/

Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/jscottcoatsworth

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/jscottcoatsworthauthor/

Author Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/jscoatsworth/

Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jscottcoatsworth/

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8392709.J_Scott_Coatsworth?from_search=true

Author Liminal Fiction: https://www.limfic.com/mbm-book-author/j-scott-coatsworth/

Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/J.-Scott-Coatsworth/e/B011AFO4OQ

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Graham’s Rescue by Hurri Cosmo

Hurri Cosmo - Graham's Rescue Cover v7jfb sTitle: Graham’s Rescue

Series: The Oletti Shifters 02

Author: Hurri Cosmo

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (256pgs)

Publisher: Hurri Cosmo (September 27, 2020)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: “You’re pregnant, Graham.”

Wow. Life has tossed Graham a lot of curveballs, but he never expected to hear those words. Then, just as Graham and his fated mate, Hyden, are getting used to that amazing news, someone from Graham’s past returns and kidnaps him, threatening the very future they want to build. Turns out Graham is an Oletti, a bloodline of wolf shifters that seems to be part of an ancient prophecy, one that speaks of a hidden magical spring of water that can restore the earth and all that is in it. A power some would kill to possess. Except, in the wrong hands, it can also turn humans and shifters totally away from what, and who, they truly love, tearing families and even fated mates apart.

Unfortunately, Hyden has been forced to drink this water so no one is coming to rescue Graham. It’s now up to him to not only save himself, his unborn child and his fated mate, but very possibly the world as they know it. But superhero capes are hard to come by and he never liked himself much in tights. Still, with the help of his Oletti powers, this should be something he can do, right? Oh, Great Wolf, let this be something I can do…

ISBN: B08KC2VZQ6

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: An excellent addition to the series that delves further into the Oletti’s background as well as Graham being in danger from those that want him for a specific purpose. I loved this suspenseful yet danger packed story. With Alpha Hyden trying to clean up Tenway to Graham being kidnapped.

This story has it all. I was in awe with the Oletti’s background as well as the interesting characters throughout the story both good and bad. My heart broke for what had been done to the Oletti’s out of greed.

This was the best book in the series as it answered many questions that remained from the first two books.

Amazing read.

The Hunter’s Gambit by Nicholas McIntire

Nicholas McIntire - The Hunter's Gambit Cover w9eudn sTitle: The Hunter’s Gambit

Series: The Archanium Codex 01

Author: Nicholas McIntire

Genre: Epic Fantasy

Length: Super Novel (722pgs)

ISBN: 9781733849128

Publisher: Black Dove Press, LLC (20th January 2020)

Heat Level: Nil

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Aleksei Drago never expected an easy life, but he never expected what he got. Growing up amongst the Ri-Vhan of Seil Wood, losing his mother and just as suddenly being torn from the forest folk, Aleksei had no choice but to make the best of the unpredictable path in life.

But what happens when the monsters and figures of fiction become horrifyingly real? Can Aleksei find the right path? When his life and the lives of his family and friends are at stake will he fight, reforging himself into the man Prophecy demands he become? In a world of magic and Magi, of Angels and Demons alike, how will a simple farm boy survive his own contorted destiny?

This is the story of a seemingly-simple world gone mad, and the reality that every action, no matter how apparently benign, can serve to unravel terrifying truths. This is the story of Aleksei Drago, farmer, Hunter, and so much more.

Purchase Link: Publisher | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Now I’m a bit of a fantasy snob, sometimes the fantasy just isn’t fantasy enough but this baby is allllllll fantasy and not just fantasy but EPIC FANTASY.

This is an amazing story that has twists and turns all the way through, it has misdirection’s right from the start lulling you into a false sense of knowledge which is then shattered and it just gets more and more interesting.

Now this isn’t a romance, yes there’s gay characters but anything between them is kept in the background so you can fully get your teeth into the storyline… and oh my what a storyline it is. Danger, mystery, dirty deeds and epic fighting is just a bit of what you can enjoy in this well-crafted story. The world building is wonderful, the characters are fantastic and you really get dragged into the story.

Aleksei is one amazing man who discovers many things about himself; his counterpart is Jonas Belgi who also makes many discoveries as they both try their best to save their kingdom. This story is amazing and I really don’t know how to explain how fantastic it is. And OMG it’s a ten book series *squee* I can’t wait!!!

 I really really have no words to tell you more about this story without giving away the many surprises that unfold, all I can say is if you love epic fantasies and amazing battles then this story is for you.

Skythane by J. Scott Coatsworth

J. Scott Coatsworth - Skythane Cover f7rhf sTitle: Skythane

Series: Liminal Sky: Oberon Cycles 01

Author: J. Scott Coatsworth

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novel (318 pages)

Publisher: Other Worlds Ink (10th October 2020)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Blurb: Jameson Havercamp, a psych from a conservative religious colony, has come to Oberon—unique among the Common Worlds—in search of a rare substance called pith. He’s guided through the wilds on his quest by Xander Kinnson, a handsome, cocky skythane with a troubled past.

Neither knows that Oberon is facing imminent destruction. Even as the world starts to fall apart around them, they have no idea what’s coming—or the bond that will develop between them as they race to avert a cataclysm.

Together, they will journey to uncover the secrets of this strange and singular world, even as it takes them beyond the bounds of reality itself to discover what truly binds them together..

ISBN-13: B08KGR6DZB

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK | Publisher

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Two men taken to safety as children will come together twenty five years later to save the world.  Xander is a Skythane. He’s had a hard life. Abused at the hands of a diabolical man’s hands he is saved one day by Alix who cherishes and nurtures him until Alix disappears.

Jameson grew up in a religious home and became a psych. He helps people as is what he’s always wanted to do. The time comes when he is tasked to find out where a drug called Pith comes from. It will be a journey fraught with revelations and danger, spanning decades of memories.

The twists and turns and the buried memories were spellbinding to witness. This book had it all. Drama, mystery, suspense, a corrupt corporation, a world on the brink of destruction, characters that added insight to the ever growing mystery as to what it going on, and two men who discover who they truly are and what they are destined for. Simply put this was a fascinating story that grabs your attention from the start. 

I absolutely loved, loved, loved this story. If I could rate it more than a five I would.

The Skythane people were described beautifully as well as the worlds themselves. It was so elaborate that I felt as though I was there every step of the way. It was an amazing story from start to finish. 

Highly recommended for all.

Tiny Planet Filled With Liars by Stephen M.A. Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Tiny Planet Filled With Liars - Stephen M.A.

QSFer Stephen M.A. has a new diverse military space opera out:

Tiny Planet Filled With Liars.

And there’s a giveaway!

An armada that never dies. A society on the verge.

Every 30 days, Fleet Eternal arrives to surround the planet and lay siege to a complacent populace. Its armaments are unbeatable, its numbers uncountable, but the terrifying assault has one fatal flaw: a mere .01% loss in combat strength triggers automatic retreat and reset.

For decades, the Unified Fiduciary Dominion has relied on the Board and its military contractors to defend the planet and maintain the knife’s edge of survival. Now, riven by greed and false confidence, those corporate lords have abandoned their duty in pursuit of political power.

The tactics of the Alpha Vector Defense Corps have served for generations—so why are they suddenly faltering? And why do Board members seem increasingly unconcerned with the tenuous state of the system? Armed with the exclusive authority to investigate, one fussy ex-military reporter must partner with a generous Madame to chase down the story behind a string of failed battles—and pray they find answers before the districts are turned to ash.

As casualties rise, The Interviewer faces deadly resistance … and discovers a disturbing conspiracy at the highest ranks.

The world’s security is careening toward disaster, and this whistleblower is running out of time. But when every answer seems to bring more questions, one reminder guides the way:

Don’t come here looking for truth. This is just a pack of lies and the end of the world.

A genre-busting dramedy & political satire thriller in military sci-fi clothing.

Universal Buy Link

Giveaway

Win a $20 Amazon gift card!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47161/?

Interview with Stephen M.A.!

[The Interviewer]

Who would you say your favorite character is? I’m presuming you won’t be pretending not to have one.

(chuckles)

[Stephen M.A.]

No, of course not. But actually, I think it was more a matter of having a particular favorite character at a particular point in the story. I think in the end it’s probably pretty obvious which character is my “hero” at any given section. The favorite.

[The Interviewer]

But never me.

[Stephen M.A.]

Well, no. Sorry.

[Int.]

I told you from the start you’d begin to hate me as soon as you let me start to get autobio—

[SM.A.]

It is NOT autobiographical—I mean, YOU are not autobiographical! You are NOT a stand-in for me! For crying out—

[Int.]

It’s Zhou, isn’t it.

[SM.A.]

…

(laughs)

Yes, it is. Of course it’s Zhou. She was the first, and the last. It could only ever have been her. She’s the only reason I turned this into an entire world.

[Int.]

Bless her mean and cranky heart.

[SM.A.]

Cheers.

[Int.]

We don’t have a drink. Quarantine, remember.

[SM.A.]

(sighs)

Yeah, I know. Also I don’t really drink.

[Int.]

(sighs)

Yeah, I know.

[SM.A.]

Can I be honest?

[Int.]

I don’t see why you’d bother starting at this point in the game, but sure, go ahead, it’s your word count.

[SM.A.]

I came into this with a firm concept, and a firm emotion. Mine. Anger. You know all the reasons.

[Int.]

Yes.

[SM.A.]

But the only reason this is likely to become a series now is because Zhou is the story. I’ll be writing the next two books for her.

[Int.]

Aw, that’s sweet.

[SM.A.]

Is it?

[Int.]

You’ll take a sandal to the throat if you say that to her face, though.

[SM.A.]

Well luckily you’re in there with her and I’m out here … uh … with you … you know what, let’s just wrap this up.

[Int.]

Probably for the best. Thanks so much to MM Good Book Reviews for having us! Grab Tiny Planet Filled With Liars on Kindle Unlimited today!

[SM.A.]

Goodbye.

[Int.]

Goodbye!

Excerpt

Tiny Planet Filled With Liars Meme - Stephen M.A.

2

Bartimus Caldwell

Onyx Hoteliers LTD., Suite 7382, Courtesy Level Omega Plus Royale

[Interviewer]

First, let me say welcome to the suite.

[Bartimus Caldwell]

Uh. Thank you.

[Interviewer]

It’s courtesy level Omega Plus Royale, you know.

[Bartimus Caldwell]

Okay.

…

Uh, I mean, that’s great. Very impressive.

[Int.]

Thank you. You need to purchase 2,000 units of Class A shares just to get the invitation to apply for a reservation.

[B.C.]

I see.

[Int.]

Mm-hmm.

[B.C.]

I’ll … uh … I’ll look into it, for sure, though I don’t know what I’d do with a room this fancy on my own.

[Int.]

You are Bartimus Caldwell.

[B.C.]

Yes, sir.

[Int.]

Don’t call me that. I’ve been discharged for years.

[B.C.]

I’m sorry, si—I mean, I’m sorry. I won’t.

[Int.]

State your position, rank, and assignment.

[B.C.]

Yeoman Sensor Scry, Grade III, Alpha Vector Defense of the Unified Fiduciary Dominion.

[Int.]

State your duties, in the most simple and clear terms you are able to.

[B.C.]

Uh … I coordinate the intake and regressive analysis of real-time sensor data to monitor the mid-threat-time development of incursions in the Alpha Vector, when under the command of UFD Central Board Oversight.

[Int.]

…

You’re a watchman and analyst.

[B.C.]

Uh … correct, sir.

[Int.]

How long have you been enlisted?

[B.C.]

I … was assigned commission four years ago.

[Int.]

You’re not volunteer enlisted?

[B.C.]

…

No, sir.

[Int.]

Why are you even allowed in the Operations Center, in that case? Or have those regulations been changed?

[B.C.]

I don’t—uh … I was not given such information, sir. Just the assignment.

…

I’ve been told my predecessor retired out of her indenture due to debilitating stress. Uh … several predecessors, actually. For the same reason.

[Int.]

I see.

[B.C.]

Yes.

[Int.]

Are you stressed, Bartimus?

[B.C.]

Yes, sir.

[Int.]

Bartimus.

[B.C.]

Yes, sir.

[Int.]

Stop calling me sir.

3

Bartimus Caldwell

Alpha Vector Operations Center

DURING incursions Bartimus Caldwell often feels chained to his desk.

Though incursion has initiated in the late afternoon (within a Unified Time Stamp of plus or minus 30 seconds) for the last twenty-six-and-one-half years, all personnel Grades V and below are still required to take stations no later than 0600 on the morning of.

Bartimus hates waking up so early, which may be why he avoided commission for so many years. It is to his great misfortune that he’s a whiz kid with sensor analysis, and inevitably discovered that Central Board Oversight had been made aware of his talents when he was abruptly recruited (then indentured) for a 20-year service stint four years ago, precisely two weeks after his 31st birthday. At the time he was gainfully (and happily) employed in the remote sexual screening industry, but that’s not relevant to this portion of his story.

Bartimus Caldwell’s desk, which binds him so readily, is located on the upper balcony of the Alpha Vector Operations Center, when under the command of Central Board Oversight.

This room represents the most exclusive and highly classified product catalogs of no less than three dozen military contractors. However, those who’ve bothered to learn as much know that in reality only two conglomerates perch atop the corporate meta-structure which hides its many tendrils behind each of those contractors.

In some professions, as you know, acknowledging this easily verifiable duopoly is quite literally illegal. For instance, service personnel are forbidden to acknowledge or discuss, in any capacity, any information that might insinuate that the dozens of military contractors working with Central Board Oversight are not in fact plucky small businesses that have been rightfully rewarded with thick and hefty revenue streams by virtue of patriotism and good old-fashioned UFD entrepreneurship.

Bartimus Caldwell adheres to this policy with unerring slavishness and would never even think of speaking ill toward the contractors. I know this because he has assured me of it several times.

When Alpha Vector Defense is not under the command of Central Board Oversight, Bartimus Caldwell’s desk is in the auxiliary hangar, packed in alongside the other 382 service members in the unit. In that venue, each such member enjoys no less than two square meters of personal space in which to perform their duties, of which their auxiliary desk takes up no more than one-point-two-five square meters.

Bartimus Caldwell bubbles with gratitude toward the military for providing this generously outfitted working space to its service members. I know this because he has assured me of it several times.

However, this was an incursion week, which meant that Board members would be in attendance for their usual round of post-contact media conferences and photo opportunities, which meant Bartimus Caldwell and his unit were stationed in the Alpha Vector Operations Center, showcasing the finest product catalogs of the military contractors owned by said members of the Board.

From his desk in the front ring on the upper balcony of the Alpha Vector Operations Center, Bartimus enjoys an unobstructed view of the entire room. Behind him on the octagonal balcony, which encircles the entire outer wall of the Operations Center, two more layers of desks and control consoles are laid out, fully staffed with unit members of Grades II and I.

The bidding wars to manufacture the desks used on the balcony have been quite fierce in recent years, and a new contract seems to be assigned every other month. Bartimus has grown quite used to arriving for OC duty and discovering a brand new desk in front of his seat, though thankfully, after one long stretch of genuine UX insanity, a regulatory design decree was issued that now ensures the general layout and functionality of each new desk model is largely the same as the last.

Author Bio

Stephen M.A.
Stephen M.A. is an ex-film student, Great Recession survivor, and first-generation tribal descendant originating from a reservation in big sky country. He now lives and writes in the northeastern United States.

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The PV-3 Mutagen by Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus Blog Tour, & Excerpt!

The PV-3 Mutagen - Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus
Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus have a new sci fi/space opera book out, Virasana Empire: Dr. Laurent Book 1: “The PV-3 Mutagen.”

As a history scholar and courier for the secretive Circle of Thales, Rene Laurent is a man of many talents – none of them lending themselves much to a life of adventure.

But when a chance meeting with a young, idealistic Belligra priest drags him into a wild quest to keep a dangerous mutagen off the streets of Floor, his curiosity gets the better of him. Between monsters both human and man-made, he realises that maybe fieldwork is more of his game than he had ever thought possible…

Written by Rainbow-Award-winning authors Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus, ‘The PV-3 Mutagen’ is a colourful non-romance sci-fi adventure set in the wildly diverse ‘Virasana Empire’, and the first novel of the ‘Doctor Laurent’ series.

Warnings: Not a romance. Harsh setting, but hopeful.

Amazon US | Amazon CAN | Amazon UK | iBooks | B&N | Kobo | Smashwords

Exclusive Excerpt

The PV-3 Mutagen

Cutting Edge

The monofilament weaponry shop was located at one of the posher malls in the quadrant. One Rene had never visited before since it specialised in all sorts of combat equipment. That the shop ran holo ads at other malls pointed to them having a good marketing budget which in turn meant they must be profitable.

The security guards at this mall didn’t so much as blink at the Belligra coming in. After all, he had good reason to be here. When they walked in, the first thing they saw was a shiny, hulking hovertank on display in the ground floor foyer, setting the mood for the whole place.

Amusingly, the holo ads here were a whole lot less obnoxious, mostly confined to displays right outside the shop windows rather than following the customers around. It probably wasn’t a good idea to annoy people who were interested in buying weapons, heavily armed and aggressive as they were wont to be.

Rene nearly lost Riccardo while studying the floor plan for the monofil shop. He found the Belligra at a nearby store, longingly gazing at what was advertised as the latest model of personal energy shields. The ones on display were in the form of various types of belt buckles and ornamental brooches. Riccardo was watching the holo display showing the shields in action with rapt attention.

Rene took one look at the price tags and dismissed the notion of getting one for his Belligra friend. There was a reason the store was located in the prime spot, right at the entrance. It wasn’t meant for priests, or normal commoners. This was the turf of company bosses and minor nobles. Looking inside, Rene found a stylishly uniformed shop clerk glaring at him. He wasn’t making shooing gestures, after all, a Belligra was not someone to be trifled with, but he very much wanted them gone.

“Come on,” he told Riccardo and tried to gently herd him away, “the ‘Cutting Edge’ is on the third floor.”

That got Riccardo’s attention. “Cutting Edge? Seriously? They couldn’t come up with a more cliche name?”

Rene shrugged. “You have to give them that you know exactly what they are dealing in.”

Riccardo cast one last longing glance at the energy shield display but obediently followed Rene to the escalators. There were plenty of other distractions for someone interested in combat. On their ride up, they had a good view of the great variety of shops selling all manner of killing tools devised by humanity and as many to make sure you didn’t get killed by them. Riccardo kept craning his neck to take it all in. It was the first time Rene had seen him truly fascinated by the abundance of commerce Floor was famous for. So, the austere, disciplined Belligra had a weakness when it came to weaponry and armour. Rene was curious to see if he would be overwhelmed by it, but he kept his own weakness of curiosity in check and led Riccardo straight to the monofil store.

It was located between a dingy-looking ammunition shop, which advertised bulk sales, and a small workshop offering armour repair services. The Cutting Edge very much dominated the scene with a sleek, white and silver interior, looking very high-tech in a most pleasing, confidence-inspiring way. The displays in the windows showed only a handful, equally sleek weapons, with special lighting illuminating the edges in different colours.

Next to Rene, Riccardo made a small sound of joy. While before he had looked like a kid in a candy shop, he now seemed more like someone admiring a piece of art. Rene looked up at him, raising an eyebrow. In reaction, Riccardo managed to look embarrassed and righteous at the same time.

“What? They’re pretty. Can’t I appreciate that?”

Rene smiled at him. “Appreciate away. It’s nice to finally see you find something you like on Floor.”

“Hmm. Let’s call it reason number one why I don’t have to leave the planet as soon as possible, shall we?”

“Let’s.” Rene entered the store and was announced by a soft tinkling as he stepped through the door.

He half expected to be treated as unwelcome rabble here as well, so he was pleasantly surprised when, instead, a clerk dressed casually in cargo pants and a white t-shirt with the Cutting Edge logo approached them with a bright smile. No older than in his mid-twenties, his bright blue, spiky hair sparkled the same colour as some of the weapons’ edges.

“Welcome, gentlemen,” he greeted them, “I’m Gino. What can I do for you today?”

Polite customer service was what sold wares, and this franchise was well aware.

“We’ve seen an ad for your monofilament grenades,” Rene replied. “We have a bit of a vermin problem, and we think that your grenades are the way to go to get rid of it.”

“That must be some seriously bad vermin,” Gino joked.

Rene held out his hand at waist height. “This tall and armed with teeth and claws.”

“Oh.” Suddenly, the joke wasn’t that funny anymore and Gino switched gears with admirable speed. “Then I think you are in the right place. Our grenades were specifically designed for exactly these kinds of problems. If you will come with me, I can show you the options we offer.”

Author Bio

We are Beryll and Osiris Brackhaus, a couple currently living our happily ever after in the very heart of Germany, under the stern but loving surveillance of our cat.

Both of us are voracious but picky readers, we love telling stories and drinking tea, good food and the occasional violent movie. Together, we write novels of adventure and romance, hoping to share a little of our happiness with our readers.

An artist by heart, Beryll was writing stories even before she knew what letters were. As easily inspired as she is frustrated, her own work is never good enough (in her eyes). A perfectionist in the best and worst sense of the word at the same time and the driving creative force of our duo.

An entertainer and craftsman in his approach to writing, Osiris is the down-to-earth, practical part of our duo. Broadly interested in almost every subject and skill, with a sunny mood and caring personality, he strives to bring the human nature into focus of each of his stories.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

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The Hunter’s Gambit by Nicholas McIntire Blog Tour, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

The Hunter's Gambit - Nicholas McIntire

Nicholas McIntire has a new queer fantasy book out,

The Archanium Codex book 1:

The Hunter’s Gambit.

Aleksei Drago never expected an easy life, but he never expected what he got. Growing up amongst the Ri-Vhan of Seil Wood, losing his mother and just as suddenly being torn from the forest folk, Aleksei had no choice but to make the best of the unpredictable path in life.

But what happens when the monsters and figures of fiction become horrifyingly real? Can Aleksei find the right path? When his life and the lives of his family and friends are at stake will he fight, reforging himself into the man Prophecy demands he become? In a world of magic and Magi, of Angels and Demons alike, how will a simple farm boy survive his own contorted destiny?

This is the story of a seemingly-simple world gone mad, and the reality that every action, no matter how apparently benign, can serve to unravel terrifying truths. This is the story of Aleksei Drago, farmer, Hunter, and so much more.

Publisher | Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CAN | Google Play | Barnes & Noble | Goodreads

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Excerpt

Henry spent the rest of the day watching his son closely. Something was undeniably troubling him, but until Aleksei decided to open up to him there was nothing he could do.

“He’ll tell you in his own time, Henry.” he muttered under his breath.

So he waited. Every now and then he would engage his son in conversation, but every time he thought Aleksei might be on the brink of telling him something, the conversation fled to some superficial topic. Did he think it would rain by Market Day? Who did he think would bring the biggest pig to the Harvest Festival? Did he think Mother Margareta would come to bless their fields before the first frost?

Henry answered each question as though it was the direction he meant to steer the conversation, and refused to allow his frustration to surface. But by the end of the evening, he was no closer to understanding his son’s troubles than he’d been that morning.

Finally Aleksei rose from his seat before the fire, put his book away, and went to bed. Henry watched him go, more troubled than ever. The boy had never gone to bed without a word before. He always had some last comment to make, even if it was just to wonder at the next day’s activities.

Henry sat before the dying embers of the fire well into the night, thinking. He didn’t remember falling asleep, so when the voice woke him his eyes started open.

Hello, Henry.

He looked around, trying to get his bearings.

Gone was the heat of the hearth, the comfort of his chair. Instead he stood in an enveloping fog of shimmering gold.

He could see no one.

“Where am I?” Henry demanded.

A dream, Henry. This is merely an illusion. I apologize that I cannot offer you more comfortable surroundings at the moment.

“Who are you?” Henry called, feeling a touch foolish, shouting at phantoms.

His question went unanswered.

Henry, I’ve come to ask a favor.

“Who are you?” Henry repeated flatly.

There was a moment of hesitation before the voice responded. A man much like yourself, Henry Drago. One who only wants what’s best for your son.

“Speak then.”

When the favor was uttered, Henry blinked in confusion. A thousand questions bubbled to the surface, yet he found that he only possessed the strength to ask one.

“Why?” he choked, surprised by the weakness in his own voice.

The air before his face shimmered and distorted, as though he were looking through intense heat. Slowly, images formed. Images of Aleksei. An Aleksei he didn’t recognize.

“Why are you showing me this?” Henry managed.

Because I want you to see what your son could become. The man he could be, if you’d only let him. If you just do as I say.

“I don’t trust you.” Henry barked back. “I can’t even see your face.”

Another image shimmered into being. A man, though Henry saw nothing remarkable about him. The man leaned forward and whispered in his ear, and Henry heard the unmistakable ring of truth.

In that moment he thought he might have preferred a dagger to the heart. It would have been far less painful to simply die at the end of a highwayman’s blade than to agree to this. Either way, he would lose the most precious thing he had.

“Bargain struck.” Henry whispered bitterly, a tear winding its way down his cheek.

You’re doing your son a great service, Henry Drago.

The man even sounded earnest.

Henry started to say something, but even as he opened his mouth, darkness swirled around him. He slipped back into the empty chasms of sleep.

#

Morning greeted Aleksei gently, rousing him from a dreamless oblivion. It had taken him hours to finally find some rest, and his relief was immeasurable when he woke without encountering the specter of the green-eyed man. His wish had been granted. The man was gone.

He made his way down the narrow stairway and walked into the kitchen, frowning at what greeted him. Their rough wooden table was laid out with provisions for what Aleksei could only guess was a journey.

But a journey where? His father hadn’t said anything about travel. There was still wood to chop and hay to store. The first snow might be weeks away, but there was no telling when the winds would usher in the chill of Northern air. Working outside in the cold was not something he, nor any farmer, relished.

“I see you’re up.” Henry said from behind. Aleksei jumped.

He turned, “Da, where are we going? I thought we were going to finish the hay this morning.”

His father shook his head and smiled, though Aleksei caught the deep sadness in Henry’s eyes. “We aren’t going anywhere, Son. You are.”

Aleksei frowned, “Me? But I thought—”

His father tried to hold the smile, but it was forced, “You’re needed, Son. In the North.”

Aleksei thought his heart would stop. He forgot to breathe. He could hardly process what his father had just said.

You know the truth he speaks, Aleksei.

Aleksei fought back a sob of frustration. He thought he’d freed himself of the damned voice, but now he knew the truth. He would never be free from it. It would hound him until the end of his days, or until it drove him mad, whichever came first.

Or until you simply do as I ask.

“Why?” he finally managed.

His father looked out the kitchen window, and Aleksei followed his gaze. Dash waited patiently outside, a saddle fitted snugly about his muscular frame.

“Because you’re needed, Son. It’s the only answer I can give you.”

“I’m not needed here, Da? Don’t you need me?”

Henry bit back the pain in his voice, “You are more of a help than I can say, Aleksei, and I love you dearly. But no, I don’t need you. Not like this. If you stayed here, you’d be wasting something…extraordinary. And honestly, I think you’d know it too. They need you in the North, Son. And their need is much more important than mine.”

Aleksei stood there, stunned by what his father was saying to him. And then the questions came pouring forth. What did Henry mean by ‘extraordinary’? What had his father learned? What was still being kept from him?

“And I’m sorry I can’t give you the answers you want, Son. But I think you know who can. Find him.”

“But how can I….” Aleksei began, fighting back the tears springing into his eyes.

“You’re strong, Aleksei. You’ve always been strong. That won’t fail you now.”

Henry swallowed back his own tears and tried to smile again, “Now you’d better get on the road. The sooner you get beyond the Southern Plain, the better. You don’t want to be riding under the Harvest sun too long if you can help it.”

“But where am I going?” Aleksei cried, his voice breaking. It was happening too fast. His life was slipping through his fingers moment by moment and there was nothing he could do about it.

“North, Son. North. You’ll know where you’re headed as you get closer. That’s all I know to tell you.”

Aleksei looked into his father’s eyes and saw the sadness, the regret that burned within him. His father wanted to know just as badly as he, to know just what sort of place he was so blindly sending his son.

Finally, after a long silence, Aleksei nodded. “Alright, Da. If you want me to go, then I’ll go.”

“I’ll never want you to go, Son.” Henry whispered, his face contorting with pain. He had already lost his wife, and now he was losing his son, too. Aleksei would still be alive, but he would be so far away.

“But promise me something, Aleksei.”

Aleksei nodded, “Anything, Da.”

“If you find this place and if it’s not what you want, what you need, promise me you’ll come back. Even if this isn’t what you want either, at least we can figure that out together.”

Aleksei finally allowed a tear to wind its way down his cheek, “I promise, Da.”

Henry stepped forward and wrapped his arms tightly around his son, hugging him as close as he could, as though any moment Aleksei might turn to mist and vanish forever. Henry stepped back and managed a sardonic smile. Aleksei might remain solid as stone, but surely enough he was about to vanish.

#

Henry didn’t watch his son ride away. In truth, he couldn’t bear it. As long as he’d never seen Aleksei leave he could always pretend the boy was out in the barn, or by the pond he’d swum in as a child. It was a good hour before Henry allowed himself to sit down in his chair and sob.

Author Bio

Nicholas McIntire
Critically-acclaimed author Nicholas McIntire has been writing fantasy since he was 8 years old. The bones of the Archanium Codex were first created when he was 16, and in the past 20 years, he has taken that initially simple idea and crafted it into a fully realized world, finished the sequel, earned three degrees (one in Russian, Eastern European Studies, two in Nursing), and lived life to its fullest. Now writing full-time, Nicholas is ready for share is vision of the Archanium Codex, a 10 book series. The first book of the series being The Hunter’s Gambit.

Nicholas, lives in Fort Worth, Texas, but writes in both Fort Worth and Fort Davis, TX, where his family has a small place situated at 5200 feet in the Davis Mountains – and, yes, Texas does have mountains.

Website | Facebook | Twitter

Nicholas McIntire - The Hunter's Gambit Cover w9eudn sTitle: The Hunter’s Gambit

Series: The Archanium Codex 01

Author: Nicholas McIntire

Genre: Epic Fantasy

Length: Super Novel (722pgs)

ISBN: 9781733849128

Publisher: Black Dove Press, LLC (20th January 2020)

Heat Level: Nil

Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Aleksei Drago never expected an easy life, but he never expected what he got. Growing up amongst the Ri-Vhan of Seil Wood, losing his mother and just as suddenly being torn from the forest folk, Aleksei had no choice but to make the best of the unpredictable path in life.

But what happens when the monsters and figures of fiction become horrifyingly real? Can Aleksei find the right path? When his life and the lives of his family and friends are at stake will he fight, reforging himself into the man Prophecy demands he become? In a world of magic and Magi, of Angels and Demons alike, how will a simple farm boy survive his own contorted destiny?

This is the story of a seemingly-simple world gone mad, and the reality that every action, no matter how apparently benign, can serve to unravel terrifying truths. This is the story of Aleksei Drago, farmer, Hunter, and so much more.

Purchase Link: Publisher | Amazon US | Amazon UK

Review: Now I’m a bit of a fantasy snob, sometimes the fantasy just isn’t fantasy enough but this baby is allllllll fantasy and not just fantasy but EPIC FANTASY.

This is an amazing story that has twists and turns all the way through, it has misdirection’s right from the start lulling you into a false sense of knowledge which is then shattered and it just gets more and more interesting.

Now this isn’t a romance, yes there’s gay characters but anything between them is kept in the background so you can fully get your teeth into the storyline… and oh my what a storyline it is. Danger, mystery, dirty deeds and epic fighting is just a bit of what you can enjoy in this well-crafted story. The world building is wonderful, the characters are fantastic and you really get dragged into the story.

Aleksei is one amazing man who discovers many things about himself; his counterpart is Jonas Belgi who also makes many discoveries as they both try their best to save their kingdom. This story is amazing and I really don’t know how to explain how fantastic it is. And OMG it’s a ten book series *squee* I can’t wait!!!

 I really really have no words to tell you more about this story without giving away the many surprises that unfold, all I can say is if you love epic fantasies and amazing battles then this story is for you.

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Nice Catching You by Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Nice Catching You

A Holiday Love Story

Author: Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood

Publisher: Wainscott Press

Release Date: 10/30/2020

Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 84,000 words

Genre: Romance, Gay Holiday Romance, Contemporary Gay Romance, Holiday Romance

Add to Goodreads

Ryan Taylor & Joshua Harwood - Nice Catching You Cover 8werfj

Synopsis

What happens when the No. 1 college hockey star in the country falls in love—with a man?
Nick Johnson, a top prospect for a pro hockey team, has a secret: he’s gay. Tired of living in the
closet for the sport he loves, he sees no way out.

Jacob Meyer’s string of bad boyfriends left him cynical about love. Instead, he focuses on his
studies as a third-year law student. With a new job waiting for him, he’s eager to graduate and
move on.

On a school-sponsored trip, Nick and Jacob meet in a most unexpected way. When Nick tells
Jacob his secret, they decide to hang out, just as friends. But their attraction is too strong to
ignore, and they soon begin dating.

Since Nick is a big man on campus, it doesn’t take long for people to notice his attachment to
Jacob. All hell breaks loose when the relationship gets out. As the national media descends,
university officials try to figure out how to solve their “problem.” Their efforts divide Nick’s
team, inflame fans, and put Nick and Jacob’s futures in jeopardy. Will the men be able to
survive a plot to destroy them without derailing both their careers?

Nice Catching You is an out-for-you romance featuring a lot of love, exciting hockey, and a
beautiful holiday. There’s also plenty of steam and a very happy ending.

Excerpt

JACOB

Sunday, December 4

I haven’t been on many buses, but I was starting to think I might die on this one. The snow
began falling before we left Whiteface Mountain early in the afternoon, not unusual for one of
the top ski resorts in the Northeast. We were due in Syracuse before six, and I hoped the weather
didn’t delay us much. The last week of classes would start the next day, and I had work to do.
The snow was coming down hard, and by the time we reached I-87, I could see very little
out the window. Many of the cars had pulled over to the side, and others were creeping along
with their hazards flashing. Our bus joined the traffic and immediately began slipping all over
the road.

With fifty-odd college students on the trip, there had been a lot of noise when we left the
resort, but nerves had soon taken over, and people were mostly quiet now. I sat alone, three rows
from the back of the bus, trying to read a case for Federal Courts. With only one more semester
of law school to go, I needed to do well. A big firm in Boston offered me a job right before
Thanksgiving, contingent on my maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Pulling a C in Fed Courts would bring
me slightly under the requirement. Although I had high hopes for a job in DC, I couldn’t risk
losing the Boston offer.

Between the bus sliding in the snow and the constant chatter from the guys in the seat
behind me, I couldn’t concentrate at all. They were hockey players, and they kept up a
conversation about the game, other players, cars, and whatever else dumb undergrad jocks talk
about. They were the only people behind me except for their friend, who was passed out on a
seat in the back.

Whoa! The rear end of the bus lurched violently into the left lane. I tried to grab something
to hold onto, but I was already airborne by the time I dropped the heavy casebook.
Hands grabbed my shoulders but didn’t slow my momentum. Dreading the impact with the
seat across the aisle, I screwed my eyes shut and held my breath. All at once, something stopped
me. Rather, someone stopped me, and that someone had brawny arms and a hard body. He’d
caught me in midair.

“You all right?”

“What?” On my back in the man’s arms, facing the top of the bus, I couldn’t see much. I
turned my head, trying to find out who had hold of me.

“Everything okay?”

I craned my neck in the other direction just as he leaned over, and it was—shit!—one of the
hockey guys who’d been sitting behind me. I’d seen him over the weekend with his buddies, at
least one of whom had laughed at me the whole time. Now they’d laugh even harder, and I’d be
known as the skinny little runt who couldn’t even stay in his seat—the twit who had to be
rescued by a real man.

Purchase at Amazon

Meet the Authors

Ryan Taylor and Joshua Harwood met in law school and were married in 2017. They live in a
suburb of Washington, DC, and share their home with a big, cuddly German shepherd. Ryan and
Josh enjoy travel, friends, and advocating for causes dear to their hearts. Ryan also loves to
swim, and Josh likes to putter in the garden whenever he can. The romance they were so lucky to
find with each other inspires their stories about love between out and proud men.

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Skythane by J. Scott Coatsworth Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

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Hi guys, we have J. Scott Coatsworth stopping by today with the tour for his new release Skythane, we have a fantastic excerpt, a brilliant $25 Amazon GC giveaway and Shorty’s review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~ 

J. Scott Coatsworth - Skythane Cover f7rhf

Skythane

(Liminal Sky: Oberon Cycle 01)
by

J. Scott Coatsworth

Jameson Havercamp, a psych from a conservative religious colony, has come to Oberon—unique among the Common Worlds—in search of a rare substance called pith. He’s guided through the wilds on his quest by Xander Kinnson, a handsome, cocky skythane with a troubled past.

Neither knows that Oberon is facing imminent destruction. Even as the world starts to fall apart around them, they have no idea what’s coming—or the bond that will develop between them as they race to avert a cataclysm.

Together, they will journey to uncover the secrets of this strange and singular world, even as it takes them beyond the bounds of reality itself to discover what truly binds them.

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK | Publisher ❣️**.•.•.

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The Demon In Business Class by Anthony Dobranski Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

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Hi guys! We have Anthony Dobranski stopping by with the tour for his release The Demon In Business Class, we have an excellent character interview, a great excerpt and a brilliant $ Amazon GC giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Anthony Dobranski - The Demon In Business Class Cover cv8dhfc

The Demon In Business Class

by

Anthony Dobranski

She can speak all languages. He can smell evil intent.

They’re enemies. They crave each other.

With secret magic, international settings, a conspiracy plot, and star-crossed lovers, The Demon in Business Class is a stylish modern fantasy spanning continents and genres.

A shady executive hires Zarabeth Battrie to help start the next global war, giving her a demon that speaks all languages. But other people know more about her job than she does…

A resolute investigator recruits Gabriel Archer to use his emerging psychic powers, for a visionary leader who turns others from evil. As his senses develop, his doubts grow…

When the two meet by chance in Scotland, passion becomes fragile love, until the demon’s betrayal drives Gabriel away. Before Zarabeth’s revenge destroys the visionary’s plan, Gabriel must stop her — for both to survive, neither can win.

Warnings: FOR ADULTS! Drugs, fistfights, vigorous sex, murder, an orgy (witnessed), a cult, and a (told not shown) history of child sexual abuse.

Fans of Jeff VanderMeer, David Mitchell and Michel Faber will love this cross-genre novel with crisp literary style. The Demon in Business Class is an international story of fantasy, intrigue, and love, on the uneasy ground where the human meets the divine.

YOUR NEXT READ IS NOW BOARDING

“If William Gibson wrote paranormal …. weaves the dark worlds of the occult and big business into an intoxicating tale.” – D. J. Butler, author of Witchy Eye

“Creative spark? Anthony Dobranski ignites a creative bonfire …A masterwork of invention.” – Mary Kay Zuravleff, author of Man Alive!

“A swank cocktail of international intrigue, steeped in the supernatural, mixed with literary flair …. so sleek it flies off the page.” – Zach Powers, author of First Cosmic Velocity

.•.•.**❣️ Publisher | Amazon US | Amazon UK | B&N | Kobo | iBooks ❣️**.•.•.

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Graham’s Rescue by Hurri Cosmo Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Hurri Cosmo - Graham's Rescue Banner 2

Hi guys! We have Hurri Cosmo popping in today with the tour for her newest release Graham’s Rescue, we have a great exclusive excerpt, a fantastic $20 Amazon GC giveaway and Shorty’s review, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

Hurri Cosmo - Graham's Rescue Cover v7jfb

Graham’s Rescue

(The Oletti Shifters 02)
by

Hurri Cosmo

“You’re pregnant, Graham.”

Wow. Life has tossed Graham a lot of curveballs, but he never expected to hear those words. Then, just as Graham and his fated mate, Hyden, are getting used to that amazing news, someone from Graham’s past returns and kidnaps him, threatening the very future they want to build. Talk about curveballs! Graham is an Oletti, a bloodline of wolf shifters that seems to be part of an ancient prophecy, one that speaks of a hidden magical spring of water that can restore the earth and all that is in it. A power some would kill to possess. Except, in the wrong hands, it can also turn humans and shifters totally away from what, and who, they truly love, tearing families and even fated mates apart.

Unfortunately, Hyden has been forced to drink this water so no one is coming to rescue Graham. It’s now up to him to not only save himself, his unborn child and his fated mate, but very possibly the world. Except superhero capes are hard to come by and he never liked himself much in tights. Still, with the help of his Oletti powers, this should be something he could do, right? Oh, Great Wolf, let this be something I can do…

Warnings: mention of great death in the past, rape attempt, violence off book

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK | Smashwords ❣️**.•.•.

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The Prince and the Pencil Pusher by Kenzie Blades Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

The Prince and the Pencil Pusher

Series: Royal Powers 07

Author: Kenzie Blades

Publisher: Luxe Press

Release Date: 9/28/20

Heat Level: 3 – Some Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 30000

Genre: Romance, Enemies to Lovers, Royal Romance, Superhero Romance, Paranormal Romance

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Synopsis

Bad things happen when supos go unchecked. That’s why Abarra needs The Ministry: to keep tabs on royals with powers run amok. Queen Maialen has entrusted the safety of her subjects to her nephew, Prince Xabier, placing the agency in his capable hands.

Only, the Prince would rather spend his days putting his own power to good use in the vineyards than to wither away on the bureaucratic vine. Tired of policing perpetrators and babysitting bean-counters, he schemes to groom his first lieutenant (and second cousin) the Duke of Shrubs. After months spent moving chess pieces, he is poised to convince the Queen to assign his cousin to his post.

But an unlikely pawn still stands in his way: the sexy Zain Otxoa is the pushiest pencil-pusher in all of The Ministry and head of internal affairs. Prince Xabier has plotted to have him fired at least thrice. Zain’s influence over the Queen—his only saving grace—is baffling.

When a master maneuver to have Zain reassigned exposes a shocking imbroglio, Prince Xabier learns The Ministry isn’t what it seems. And Zain isn’t a pawn at all.

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Straight Talk With Kenzie Blades!

Q: What show from your childhood would you love to bring back?

A: Not my childhood, but canceling Firefly was a big mistake. It’s great that they had a movie (Serenity) designed to cap the series, but…yeah, that wasn’t sufficient. Mal and Inara still need to get together. I’m waiting… (::taps foot on ground::)

Q: What’s the best vacation you ever had?

A: I spent a month in Tanzania. The first two weeks were spent acclimatizing to altitude, then climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro. The last two weeks were spent on safari in the mainland, then in Zanzibar relaxing at the nicest private resort I’ve ever stayed in.

Q: If someone gave you a free plane ticket to anywhere in the world, where would you go?

A: Probably Antarctica or the Seychelles or somewhere that is prohibitively expensive for me to go to myself. Antarctica doesn’t even have any public airports. If someone could organize a string of air travel that would get me there, yes, I would absolutely take it. I travel a lot for work and I afford most of my leisure travel using miles. I’m also one of those people who is nuts about having a credit card that gets you frequent traveler points. That’s how I take most of my far-flung vacations.

Q: What’s your favorite rainy day movie?

A: I never get sick of The Princess Bride, or the 1980 version of Fame. I can generally watch AMC or TCM for hours. Now that we have streaming services, I rarely have to go back to old favorites. I’m always addicted to something new. Right now, that’s K-dramas. 

Q: What fictional character would you most like to be stuck in an elevator with?

A: Someone super-sexy who’s game for stuck-in-an-elevator stranger sex. I mean, who wants to be stuck in an elevator with someone and just talk?

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Excerpt

Not so fast.

My heels clicked in rapid succession as I walked down the centerline of the grand executive hall. It was far afield of the offices on lower floors. It took minutes to get all the way up there, which was why I’d needed to make haste. Left unattended on nights when he would rather have been any place but at his post, the Prince had a tendency to disappear.

The floors were made of marble and their design was quite ornate—a wide white border off to each side, with an elaborate design forming a runway down the middle. It wasn’t a pattern, but a work of art, its geometric pieces reminiscent of stained glass. It gave the sense of walking on a rug made of stone.

Hues from garnet, to ruby, to tawny, to rose made up elements of a palette that swirled and faded to ambers and golds. They complemented magnificent oil paintings of Abarran countryside that lined the grand corridor’s high walls. Spaced-out sitting benches rendered the space worthy of entertaining. Yet, he kept it to himself, and spent most of his time alone.

The downstairs offices were another story. They were filled with six-by-six-foot cubicles configured en masse for the Ministry’s rank and file. Enclosed offices here and there were reserved for mid-level managers: MLMs, as we liked to call them. I inhabited one of the better of these offices—a space in the corner on a higher floor with a not-bad view—though an MLM I was not.

Ostensibly, I was the Head of Internal Affairs, which was exactly her intention—a gross understatement considering my deep involvement with the covert side. Not making that last fact public was by design. My list of responsibilities was too long to name—too long for me to remember most days. Yet, the highest of my duties was to babysit him.

He was Prince Xabier Garrastazu, third in line to the South Abarran throne, son of Prince Frantzisco, nephew to the Queen, and Duke of Brix. He was also the Minister of Powers—the highest-ranking official at this agency and—despite my charge to keep him from making too big a mess out of things, he was—technically—my boss.

“Is he in?” I asked Eusebio, more for his benefit than mine. I knew the Prince’s comings and goings. I had eyes on him at all times. I tried not to roll my eyes as Eusebio made a production of picking up the phone to announce my arrival. The Prince enjoyed forcing me to wait to be let in.

Good.

The more ridiculously childish and infuriatingly vain Prince Xabier, Duke of Brix, chose to be wherever I was concerned, the easier it was to ignore his ridiculous appeal.

“Your Grace.” As usual, I greeted his back, the part of him that always seemed to face me when I walked into his suite. Even from behind, the man was magnificent. Broad shoulders filled out a perfectly tailored button-down made of fine fabric and subtle herringbone design. Today’s shirt—white if you weren’t paying attention—was the faintest of lilac. He was the epitome of a dashing prince.

To be clear, I was paying attention, not only to the way its snug fit showed the definition in his shoulders—to the place where the fabric stopped and his rolled-up sleeves gave way to skin. For all the hard work he didn’t do, there needn’t have been any rolling up of sleeves. In my most outlandish of theories, he did it to torment me.

“Mr. Otxoa,” the Prince greeted blithely, not turning toward me just yet. He stood on a rug in the sitting area with his gaze remained fixed on the fire. His office was a projection of the man himself—pleasantly fragrant, clean to a fault and dripping with style. Tufted wingback chairs with ottomans flanked a matching Chesterfield, all three in a dark teal. Fire glow warmed his features, casting appeal on the planes of his face, flattering the smooth line of his nose and cutting shadows from his diamond jaw.

I stopped at the edge of the rug next to the drink trolley that carried only wine. Its twin at the other end of the Chesterfield was all crystal decanters and spirits. When he turned, I was meant to bow out of deference. This was always the most difficult moment—the one when he first cast his gaze upon me. I faltered at the devastating beauty of his eyes.

“And what have you for me tonight? More documents to sign, no doubt. More supos with powers run rampage?”

He made no secret of the fact that my presence vexed him. Unencumbered by the burden of common birth, the Prince was under no obligation to feign politesse. Logic dictated that his resentment stemmed from me holding him to task. Instinct told me that the sport he made of pushing my buttons was something more.

The Prince finally cast his sapphire gaze upon me and I did bow then, thankful that the deep hue of my skin made it easy to hide my flush. Blood that he could not see rushed to my cheeks and prickled my nose and burned the tops of my ears. If he resented me, I, too, resented him. Training the Prince was not supposed to be so difficult as this.

Meet the Author

Kenzie Blades is a queer author of romantic LGBTQ+ fiction and is the alter ego of a multi-award winning author who writes other fiction under a different name. Kenzie lives in San Francisco and enjoys lots of things that start with the letter B, like bacon, bourbon and books.

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A Little Unsteady by April Kelley Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt & Giveaway!

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Hi peeps! We have April Kelley popping in today with the tour for her new release A Little Unsteady, we have a great exclusive excerpt and a fantastic $20 Amazon GC giveaway, so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

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A Little Unsteady

(Wingspan 04)
by

April Kelley

Nigel wouldn’t mind if Asher called him Daddy if the age-gap didn’t bother him so much.

Nigel Blackburn has lived a full like as a private investigator. His job means he travels solo a lot, which is something he enjoys. He’s a grouchy, stubborn dragon shifter who is better off alone. The last thing he wants is a mate and certainly not one so young. It doesn’t matter that he finds little bobcat shifter, Asher Burkhart, sexy. But all Nigel’s dragon wants to do is protect, which is good because danger drives into town.

Series Blurb:

Wingspan used to be normal. It was just a small dragon shifter town until a bear showed up. He was just the beginning. Between rescuing vampires and bobcat shifters, and the Wingspan resident whose mate is a pregnant male bat shifter, Wingspan isn’t just dragon shifters anymore. They didn’t mean to be all-inclusive, and now everyone has to get along. It’s easy said than done.

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA ❣️**.•.•.

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Majid by A.G. Carothers Release Blast & Giveaway!

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🦄🐾🧛‍♂️ Majid is LIVE and Giveaway! 🧛‍♂️🐾🦄

↠Bloodlines of Fate Book 2 by A.G. Carothers↞

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→Order Here: https://mybook.to/Majid

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~Blurb~

“Tell me of your homeworld…”

“Nope. And that’s the last time you watch that movie before bed, baby boy.” Talos cut off Kikoi who pouted.

“Fine. Then tell me about when Uncle Majid finally stopped being so grumpy and murdery all the time.” Kikoi batted his thick eyelashes.

“Okay, I can tell you all about that. Well, I don’t think he’ll ever stop being murdery as you put it.” Talos settled into his customary story telling position.

“Some would say that story begins well over two thousand years ago when I first met my best friend and powerful unicorn shadow. Some others would say it started a little over a thousand years ago when tragedy struck. But I think it starts when my eldest brother, the crazy half-giant vampire that he is, retired and went on a quest for redemption.”

Kikoi draped himself across Talos as he closed his eyes.

“Little did Majid and Odin know that Fate sent a tough, smart, wasn’t going to take lip from them polar bear to cross their path when they needed it most…”

Majid’s best friend, Talos, has found his mate and finally recognized his lover of the past several hundred years as his other mate. The mate Majid had spent the last eleven hundred years trying to forgive was back in his life.

Will Majid rescue one mate only to lose the other? Or will the fierce polar bear, Siku, give him a chance to redeem himself?

Will Odin forgive himself for the actions that tore Majid from his life? And will the not so little bear find him to be a worthy mate? Or is he doomed to die on a quest for redemption?

Will Siku find his place not only within the relationship his mates clearly already have but also the entirely different world that is city life? Or is he just fooling himself that he can get over the wall between him and his mates?

Bloodlines of Fate is an urban fantasy series set in a world destroyed by humans and resurrected by supernatural beings. This book contains depictions of omega polar bears who will eat you in self-defense, sturdy hairbrushes that break naughty butts, timeouts for coloring and painting toes, and a family reunion for the history books.

Majid is part two of a two-part story arch that tells the love story of two triads (MMM). It is necessary to read Talos to fully enjoy this book that does end in a HEA despite bickering chefs who try to burn the estate down.

This is a type of omegaverse with mpreg.

A.G. Carothers - Majid teaser4A.G. Carothers - Talos Cover 75hty

→Order Talos (Bloodlines of Fate Book 1) Here: https://mybook.to/Talos

Cover Designer: Samantha Santana

Cover Illustrator: Maberan

Author Links: https://Link.Gallery/agcarothers

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Prince Ivan, A. Wolfe & A Firebird by Eric Alan Westfall Blog Tour, Guest Post, Excerpt & Giveaway!

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Hi guys, we have Eric Alan Westfall stopping by today with the tour for his new release Prince Ivan, A. Wolfe & A Firebird , we have a great guest post from Eric, a great excerpt and a brilliant $20 Amazon GC giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤️ ~Pixie~

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Prince Ivan, A. Wolfe & A Firebird

by

Eric Alan Westfall

Dear Reader,

What do you get when you combine a greedy Great Tsar, his two cheating, bullying older sons, his youngest esser (shh! no saying that aloud) son, stolen gold apples, a Firebird quest, A. Wolfe who has the power t’assume a pleasing shape, a magickal sandstorm, as well as two bands and a full Symphony of Gipsumies?

A rollicking, roisterous Russian Fairy Tale, with vigorous esser activities in tents, halls, bedrooms and alcoves, with and without the assistance of PSTs. Plus princely parades, a duel over Gus, new lyrics to an old drinking song, and the possibility of bits of blood, gobs of gore or moments of mayhem. As required by CORA (the Code of RFT Authors), should these occur, your author will give you timely warning.

Ah. Still not ready to part with your kopek-equivalent? Consider the fun you’ll have reading chapters like:

“To Kvetch, Or Not To Kvetch? A Reader’s Choice”

“Ivan Has A Close Encounter Of The F-Word Kind”

“Second Direction Questers vs. The Caliph’s Sayer Of Sooths”

“Will Sasha Succeed In Seducing Prince Ivan?”

“Bad Prince Ivan! No Touch Cage!”

“A Travel Pause For Gratuitous Sex In The Tent—Which Does Not Advance The Plot—At The Insistence Of The Characters”

“A Necessary Interlude To Consider The Age-Old Questing Question: What The [Expletive Of Your Choice, Dear Reader] Do We Do Next?”

If you buy it and try it, you’ll like it, or so says your most talen…er…humble author.

p.s. If Karrie Jax and I have covered you and blurbed you to buy, look for “Dear Reader, Along The Way, Did You Happen To See The Allusion To Olivier?” in the TOC. It’s a spot-the-allusions chance at gift cards of $25, $15, or $10.

166,000 words of story fun and frolic, plus a 2160-word teaser from another MM fairytale: The Tinderbox

.•.•.**❣️ Amazon US | Amazon UK | B&N | iBooks | Kobo | Smashwords ❣️**.•.•.

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Mr. Perfect by Aimee Nicole Walker Blog Tour,

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Mr. Perfect
Sinister in Savannah Series, Book Two
Aimee Nicole Walker
LGBT Romantic Suspense
Release Date: 09.18.20

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Cover: Jay Aheer
Photographer: CJC Photography
Model: Brock

Blurb

Word-slinger. Purveyor of truth. Jaded heart.

By day, Felix Franklin is an investigative journalist. By night, he produces Sinister in Savannah, an investigative podcast, with his two best friends. Felix’s life revolves around three principles: fortune favors the bold, honesty is everything, and love is for schmucks.

The podcast is back to investigate allegations that a local businessman is dabbling in money laundering. On the surface, everything about Cameron Spencer, aka The Auto King, appears to be perfect. The trio of trouble quickly learns all that glitters is not gold. Seeking the truth will challenge Felix’s convictions and put his life in grave danger. The biggest threat to his well-being isn’t an unknown villain; it’s the reappearance of his first and only love.

Jude Arrow had it all: great looks, charming personality, and a lucrative career as Atlanta’s hottest news anchor. So, why had he recently relocated to Savannah? When the two reporters are forced to work together, Felix will get a chance to ask him. The answer will stun Felix until he remembers not to believe anything that comes out of the heartbreaker’s pretty mouth.

Love and hate are two sides of the same coin and just as conflicting as the battle of wills that ensues. Will the chip on Felix’s shoulder save him from trusting Mr. Wrong or ruin his chances with Mr. Perfect?

Sinister in Savannah series is a fictional podcast exploring the city’s most nefarious crimes with Southern-fried snark. The books explore friendship, love, loss, and the irrepressible human spirit. Mr. Perfect is book two of three. While each book is written about a different couple, the series should be read in order due to continuing storylines. Sinister in Savannah is an LGBT romantic suspense series with mature language and sexual content intended for adults eighteen and older.

Universal Link: http://mybook.to/Mr_Perfect

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Excerpt

Felix held up his hand. He didn’t want to hear another lie from Jude’s beautiful lips. “Just shut up. I’ve heard enough of your fake apology to last me a lifetime.”

“It wasn’t a fake apology. It just wasn’t the one you wanted to hear,” Jude argued, crossing his arms over his massive chest. The move pulled his dress shirt tighter over his bulging biceps.

Goddamned sexy bastard.

Felix quirked a brow. “Okay, we’ll call it a non-apology then. How does that work for you?”

“A non-apology?” Jude asked. “What the hell is that?”

“When someone does or says something horrible to you, and you call them out on their bullshit. Instead of saying, ‘I’m sorry I hurt you,’ the loser pops off with ‘I’m sorry your feelings are hurt.’ That is not the same thing at all. It’s implying the person who’s hurt is the one at fault. It’s victim-blaming, and I hate it.”

Jude clamped his jaw so tightly that Felix was surprised he didn’t hear his teeth cracking under the strain. His nostrils flared as he worked to calm himself. After a long, awkward staredown, Jude relaxed his jaw and tersely said, “You’re an idiot.”

Felix chuckled; the sound filled with disdain. “You’ll have to find harsher insults to throw me off my game, Arrow.”

Aimee Nicole Walker Logo

Ever since she was a little girl, Aimee Nicole Walker entertained herself with stories that popped into her head. Now she gets paid to tell those stories to other people. She wears many titles—wife, mom, and animal lover are just a few of them. Her absolute favorite title is champion of the happily ever after. Love inspires everything she does, music keeps her sane, and coffee is the magic elixir that fuels her day. I’d love to hear from you

https://linktr.ee/AimeeNicoleWalker