Finding Shawn by Phil Marcello Cover Reveal & Excerpt!

Phil Marcelo - Finding Shawn FB-Banner

Hi guys, we have Phil Marcello visiting to show off the cover to his upcoming debut release Finding Shawn, we also have a great excerpt for you to check out so admire that cover and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Phil Marcelo - Finding Shawn Cover

Finding Shawn

(Dangerous Lives of High School Athletes 01)
by

Phil Marcello

Shawn and Alex have been friends since first grade.

Alex, the rock star quarterback, appears to be basking in the limelight of his success and his new romance with Pam.  But appearances can be deceiving.

Shawn is the key man in the football team’s solid defense. He’s also the senior class’ most eligible bachelor. But Shawn has no time to get involved with a girl—at least, that’s what he tells his friends. 

In reality, he does have a love interest… Tony Valito. 

Side-by-side, the relationships between the two couples blossom.  One in the open. The other in secret. That is, until Shawn’s world erupts when the rumor that he’s gay gathers momentum.

In trying to find Shawn, perhaps his friends will end up finding themselves. And everyone will discover how dangerous are the lives of high school athletes.

Continue reading “Finding Shawn by Phil Marcello Cover Reveal & Excerpt!”

The Lusty Adventures of Theseus by Arthur Griffin Guest Post!

Arthur Griffin - The Lusty Adventures of Theseus Banner

Hiya guys we have Arthur Griffin popping in today with his upcoming release The Lusty Adventures of Theseus, Arthur chats about his inspirations for writing The Lusty Adventures of Theseus, and there’s a tantalizing excerpt! So enjoy the post! <3 ~Pixie~

Arthur Griffin - The Lusty Adventures of Theseus Cover

The Lusty Adventures of Theseus

by

Arthur Griffin

The myth of Theseus and the Minotaur has never been quite this steamy!

Handsome Theseus journeys to Athens to claim his birthright as heir to the throne, and along the way he meets the roguish Pirithous, who teaches him all about matters of the heart—and body. When they reach the city, Theseus is shocked to discover that his father, the king, has a tradition of sacrificing youths to the Minotaur, the monster that inhabits the island nation of Crete.

Theseus and Pirithous, along with Iphitrion, a slave boy they befriend, set out to slay the Minotaur. After learning Crete is ruled by a mad tyrant with a fetish for orgies, Theseus puts his new skills to the test, fighting, flirting, and fornicating his way through the ranks, working his way past soldiers, satyrs, and gods alike as he attempts to accomplish his goal and save his city.

Release date 9th March 2016

Continue reading “The Lusty Adventures of Theseus by Arthur Griffin Guest Post!”

The Lusty Adventures of Theseus by Arthur Griffin Cover Reveal, Guest Post & Excerpt!

Arthur Griffin - The Lusty Adventures of Theseus Banner

Hiya guys we have Arthur Griffin popping in today with his very stunning cover to his upcoming release The Lusty Adventures of Theseus, Arthur chats a bit about the cover and book, and there’s a steamy excerpt! So enjoy the post! <3 ~Pixie~

Arthur Griffin - The Lusty Adventures of Theseus Cover

The Lusty Adventures of Theseus

by

Arthur Griffin

The myth of Theseus and the Minotaur has never been quite this steamy!

Handsome Theseus journeys to Athens to claim his birthright as heir to the throne, and along the way he meets the roguish Pirithous, who teaches him all about matters of the heart—and body. When they reach the city, Theseus is shocked to discover that his father, the king, has a tradition of sacrificing youths to the Minotaur, the monster that inhabits the island nation of Crete.

Theseus and Pirithous, along with Iphitrion, a slave boy they befriend, set out to slay the Minotaur. After learning Crete is ruled by a mad tyrant with a fetish for orgies, Theseus puts his new skills to the test, fighting, flirting, and fornicating his way through the ranks, working his way past soldiers, satyrs, and gods alike as he attempts to accomplish his goal and save his city.

Continue reading “The Lusty Adventures of Theseus by Arthur Griffin Cover Reveal, Guest Post & Excerpt!”

The Country Omega by Penelope Peters

514UzVQyBoL._SX311_BO1,204,203,200_Title: The Country Omega
Series: The Downing Cycle, #1
Author: Penelope Peters
Genre: Paranormal/ Science Fiction
Length: 334 pages
Publisher: Penelope Peters (January 26, 2016)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Omega Ethan Downing doesn’t want a mate. He wants to play his piano and travel the world. But with his acceptance to a prestigious musical conservatory hanging in the balance – and an ex who won’t take “no” for a hint – Ethan’s father arranges a bonding with an alpha neither of them have ever met.

Alpha Antonio Valdez’s life is perfect. He has the career, the money, and the looks. In fact, he’d be perfectly happy never to bond at all. When his overbearing father arranges a bonding for him, he’s ready to find every excuse in the world not to go through with it.
One meeting changes both Ethan’s and Antonio’s minds.

Too bad their fathers have also changed theirs.

Now Ethan and Antonio have to fight for something they never even dreamed they wanted: each other.

Product Link: http://amzn.to/1Pj0YOU

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I came across Penelope Peters a few months ago and was captivated by the way she writes. This particular story was not only fascinating but a bit strange. The world created for this story was not only interesting but also very unique.

I have read many paranormal romances and this one just pops out at you. I have to tell you that usually stories remotely are familiar with each other, but this one was very different then the any that I have read. I wasn’t sure if I would actually get into it, but I have to tell you that this story rocked.

The characters are well written with a lot of details to them that you will be falling in love with them. There is nothing better than a good paranormal romance with two gorgeous men. This story has a lot of different action pact with the perfect amount of feelings going around.

When you start reading a story you can always tell which author puts their whole heart into what they are writing. This is one of those stories for me. I love the way this author can put together a book that not only fascinates you but draws you in.

Ethan’s world is quite different from many you read about. Omega and Alpha children are kept home till they have bonded. Which for me was the only down side to this story however it was pretty good. He is an Omega who loved to play the piano. That was all he ever wanted to do.

He never wanted to bond with another, but when Alan wouldn’t leave him alone he knew his parents’ idea was perfect. None of them had met Antonio but the Alpha would be the best.

Antonio had not wanted a weak Omega, he wanted an Omega who was strong and could tell him what he wanted. He had taken one look at Ethan and had made the choice. However when their fathers argued about the contract, they had decided that neither one of their sons would bond.

Antonio and Ethan knew they were in trouble. Antonio would do everything in his power to get his Omega. The problem was Alan didn’t want to let Ethan go.

I had a blast reading The Country Omega and I have to say, that this would be an amazing series.  I want to read more.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Deep by A.L. Bates Release Day Blast, Excerpt & Review!

A.L. Bates‏ - Deep -Banner

Hi guys, we have debut author A.L. Bates popping in with Deep their first published novella, we have a great excerpt and Lisa’s review so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

A.L. Bates‏ - Deep 600x956

Deep

by

A.L. Bates

Fleeing from a troubled past that left him feeling tarnished and used, Sean finds work as a medic aboard the deep sea mining ship Ariel, on a distant planet.

Under the leader ship of the infuriating, yet charismatic, Captain Joel Riley, Sean settles into his simple, but dangerous, new life. It’s a life he soon comes to love; albeit one in which he conceals his sexuality and avoids intimacy.

But Sean’s new world is turned on its head when an old face threatens to expose him for the man he used to be.

With Joel’s help, will Sean learn to come to terms with his past and become a man he can be proud of?

Continue reading “Deep by A.L. Bates Release Day Blast, Excerpt & Review!”

Deep by A.L. Bates

51L8-dsuC+L._SX311_BO1,204,203,200_Title: Deep
Series: N/A
Author: A.L. Bates
Genre: Science Fiction
Length: 123 pages
Publisher: Wayward Ink Publishing (January 29, 2016)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Fleeing from a troubled past that left him feeling tarnished and used, Sean finds work as a medic aboard the deep sea mining ship Ariel, on a distant planet.

Under the leader ship of the infuriating, yet charismatic, Captain Joel Riley, Sean settles into his simple, but dangerous, new life. It’s a life he soon comes to love; albeit one in which he conceals his sexuality and avoids intimacy.

But Sean’s new world is turned on its head when an old face threatens to expose him for the man he used to be.

With Joel’s help, will Sean learn to come to terms with his past and become a man he can be proud of?

ISBN: 978-1-92522-275-3

Product Link: http://www.waywardinkpublishing.com/product/deep-by-al-bates/

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is the first time I have read a story by this author so I was not sure what to expect. Usually I avoid them but I must admit the cover caught my attention. It looked futuristic and very cool so I checked out the blurb to see what it would be like and I was captivated with the new feel of it. I have not read many stories that involve deep-sea mining on other planets. Sounded just like something I would want to read.

The first line of the first paragraph captivated me even more. I mean you are somewhere that is dark even when it is day light out. Kind of spooky if you ask me. I have to tell you that this story was one hell of a read. There is so much detail, depth and heat in it. It felt like I was underwater with them.

Sean was a rent boy not by his own choice at first. He soon found he was good at it, even though he hated it with a passion. He had to escape as everyone was looking for him and being a medic aboard a deep-sea mining ship was his best bet. He absolutely loved it and was falling for his captain. His very straight captain at that, but he kept his sexuality a secret fearing the worst. That is until Danny showed up and was going to throw him to the wolves.

Joel was straight but there was something about Sean that called to him. He is an ass to everyone but when the little prick Danny goes to destroy his family and ship, he knew it was up to him. What surprised him was his attraction to Sean and after that kiss he was looking for a way in.

This story is very captivating and I loved the adventure you get with these guys. I also loved how everyone on the ship was family even if they were not blood related. Joel is a hard ass but he loves his crew and it seems that his crew loves him back. The location was amazing and so damn real that it was freaky.

When I first got this I knew that it was going to be a great read but it wasn’t till I finished that I realized this is going to be a favorite story of mine.

I can’t wait to see what other stories this author has out.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Small Wonders by Courtney Lux Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!

Courtney Lux - Small Wonders 960x350

Hi guys, today we welcome new author Courtney Lux and her debut novel Small Wonders, Courtney graciously answers some questions for us, she also lets us have a peek at an excerpt, there’s a fantastic giveaway and we have Cat’s review, so enjoy the post and click that rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Courtney Lux - Small Wonders 1600px COVER Front

Small Wonders

by

Courtney Lux

A pickpocket who finds value in things others do not want, Trip Morgan meets and becomes involved with Nate Mackey, a down-and-out former Wall Street professional who looks eerily like a child in a photograph Trip found years before.

It’s part of a collection of stolen trinkets he’s collected since he arrived in New York. He keeps it all close and works out a life he could have if he could ever let someone keep him long enough for him to build up a treasure trove of small wonders all his own.

In confronting their own demons and finding value in each other, Trip and Nate may find that their relationship is a wonder of its own.

Continue reading “Small Wonders by Courtney Lux Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt, Review & Giveaway!”

Into the Team by Rob Damon

81s55TTGFVL._SL1500_Title: into the team
Series: N/A
Author: Rob Damon
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novel (216 pages)
Publisher: CoolDudes Publishing (September 15th, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts
Blurb: To honor his father, young footballer Todd Mackerson commits to his goal of playing for a professional team. When, at the age of 20, he is offered a place to train with one of England’s biggest clubs, he leaves home convinced his dream is within reach.

Being warned by his new team mates of the tough rules and hard training routines, Todd is undeterred. But when he discovers that the player’s way of bonding borders on the sexual, and that he must learn to accept the erotic affections that connect the team together, he wonders how far he can go for his dream.

But, after experiencing the care and attention men can give to each other, Todd feels awakened. Learning that each player has a special “partner” on the team, who they play and bond with as intimately as lovers, Todd becomes fascinated with the idea.

And when he develops feelings for one player in particular, he discovers how a stronger kind of romance – that between two men – can be pure and powerful enough to bring magic and success on the pitch.

Product Link(s): Amazon US | Amazon UKCool Dudes Publishing

Reviewer: KathyMac

Review: Into the Team, by Rob Damon is his debut novel about a small boy, who lost his father at a very young age, growing into a man and fulfilling, both, their dreams of playing football. For those of us who live in America, we call it soccer, but it doesn’t change the dynamics of what the book is about, and that is team companionship/spirit/support/connections to your fellow team member.

Todd has dreamed of playing football since he was a small boy. He’s now twenty and it looks like his dream is coming true. As he is driven to an undisclosed location, by a football scout, he hates to get his hopes up for what this could mean.

He soon finds out that he is being offered a spot on one of England’s biggest clubs and he is ecstatic.

In the locker room, Todd sees two players in the shower together and this really confuses him. He’s pretty sure they were touching each other in a sexual way, but why isn’t anyone saying anything?

The more he learns about team dynamics and bonding the more questions play havoc with his head. When the boss notices Todd’s concern he pulls him into the office for a talk. His theory has proven that by partnering up with another team member, one that you connect with strongly, makes the flow of your skill on the field much better.

Todd doesn’t deny that knowing your team members and being able to anticipate their moves on the field works great but he is not sure about the intimacy he witnesses.
I really enjoyed this story and I liked the author’s writing style. I wasn’t sure how the story was going to play out, but I was intrigued enough to stay with it and basically read it in one sitting.

I wouldn’t consider this a romance, at all, more like a bro-mance. There isn’t any sex in the book, to speak of, and but there is touching and kissing. Most is handled off page allowing the reader to use their imagination.

With that said, there are moments of intimacy between the players that are very realistic and sweet, bordering on hot and sensual. The more comfortable Todd becomes with the team, the more he is at ease with expressing his feelings. At first, he’s very reserved and almost bashful, but he soon gives in wanting that connection with his teammate.

He does start to question his sexuality, however, and wonders if he is gay or at least bi. His partner on the team is Daryl, who is very shy and keeps more to himself. He has never clicked with anyone on the team until Todd came along. These two have a history together and I was really hoping that it would bring them closer, off the field, as well as on.

The story flows along at a nice pace and the author spends most of his focus on the field or locker rooms where the players are learning to trust and form connections. There were some phrases that I was not familiar with since this happens in England but I wasn’t thrown from the story. At one point, I was completely under the author’s spell, when the guys were on the field and the author narrated the game, play-by-play.

I actually felt as though I was on the field watching, holding my breath, willing the ball to go into the net. It was intense and I think I held my breath through the whole game. Great job by the author with his detailed descriptive narrative.

The author, in my opinion, leaves the story open for the reader to form their own opinion as far as the HEA or HFN. I choose to believe that Todd and Daryl, both, have their happy ever after and I would love to see more about them in the future to see if I am right.

I would definitely recommend this story to other readers who like a story with heart. There is a scene where I had tears pouring down my face as Todd faces some of his past about his dad. It was a beautiful and heartfelt moment and the author had my undivided attention. Then, there were moments that had me smiling from ear to ear celebrating their joy with them.

Overall, the story was very moving and I would definitely read more from this author.

FANart into the team rob damon soccer ball
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Lodestones by Naomi MacKenzie Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Naomi MacKenzie - Lodestones 960x350

Hi guys we have Naomi MacKenzie stopping by today with her debut novel Lodestones, we chatted briefly with Naomi, we have a great excerpt and there’s a brilliant giveaway so guys enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Naomi MacKenzie - Lodestones 1600px COVER-Front

Lodestones

by

Naomi MacKenzie

On the eve of a new school year, several groups of college students cross paths as they seek out a secret end-of-summer lake party—including Robin and Charlie, two inseparable friends who discover of the course of the twenty-four hours that their relationship is something much deeper than simple friendship.

Continue reading “Lodestones by Naomi MacKenzie Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

Please Understand by Fai Marie Dawson Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Fai Marie Dawson - Please Understand 960x350

Hi peeps, we have Fai Marie Dawson stopping by on the first day of the tour for her debut novel Please Understand, we have a short interview with Fai, she lets us have a peek at one of her works in progress, we have a great excerpt from Please Understand and there’s a great giveaway, so enjoy the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Fai Marie Dawson - Please Understand Picture1

Please Understand

by

Fai Marie Dawson

To keep his mother off his back, Fox struggles to live life as a straight man. Following his failed marriage, he thinks he’s found a piece of heaven when he meets Audrey, a sexy dark-haired beauty. When he’s introduced to her twin brother, his life turns upside down. Mrs. Jones, a regular shopper at Fox’s quaint neighborhood bookstore, steps in to referee the fall-out. Can Fox maintain relationships with both Audrey and her brother? Can a late night train chase bring Fox closer to the one he loves? How far will Fox’s mother go to keep her son tight in her clutches?

Continue reading “Please Understand by Fai Marie Dawson Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

Going Home by Randy Wiggins

goinghomeTitle: Going Home
Series: N/A
Author: Randy Wiggins
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (61 Pages)
Publisher: Siren/Bookstrand Publishing (August 13, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4Black
Blurb: When Gavin Harris returns to his small Georgia hometown to take a new position as high school English teacher and resident novelist he never expects to fall in love again with the same guy he had wanted in high school. Now five years later he and Jared are reunited at a book signing and trouble soon shows its head in the form of the two town bullies who grew out of their teens but not out of their bullying ways.

Gavin invited his long time crush to dinner after a book signing and they find they are still just as attracted to each other as they were in high school. This time they are determined to let nothing come between them, not the bullies or Jared’s over protective mother.

Can love really bloom twice?

ISBN: 978-1-63259-628-4

Product Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/going-home-wiggins

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is the first story by this author that I have read and I had a blast with it. The only thing that I had issues with was the fact that it started out great, but midway through it, it came off like it was finished in a rush. The ending was sweet, but a bit off to me.

Jared and Gavin went to school together. Gavin always stood up for those who got bullied by others. Jared was one of those kids that he stood up for. Jared had always had a crush on him, so he couldn’t wait to see him when Gavin came home. Gavin had decided to not only have a book signing for his latest book but to come back to live in his home town. When Jared walked in to get his book signed, he knew he had to show him how he really felt.

There is a bit of trouble that makes this story even better. I always loved a good rift in a story that makes it stand out more. It just pops out to me. I liked how Gavin stood up for Jared even now with the homophobic bullies. It just shows him in the perfect light.

Now even though these two have went to school together, it comes off like they are brand new, but they are showing each other what they feel for each other.

I had a blast reading this and look forward to reading more by this author.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Definitely, Maybe, Yours by Lissa Reed Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Lissa Reed - Definitely, Maybe, Yours 960x350

Hi guys, we have Lissa Reed stopping by today with her debut novel Definitely, Maybe, Yours. We asked Lissa a couple of questions, we have a great excerpt and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and click that Rafflecopter link <3 ~Pixie~

Lissa Reed - Definitely, Maybe, Yours 1600px COVER-Front

Definitely, Maybe, Yours

by

Lissa Reed

Seattle-based baker Craig Oliver leads a life that is happily routine: baking cupcakes for an enormous family reunion, managing Sucre Coeur for its frequently absent owner, and closing out his day with a pint at the local pub. He has a kind heart, a knack for pastry, and a weakness for damaged people.

Habitual playboy Alex Scheff is looking to drown his sorrows, but instead discovers that he may have a weakness for Englishmen who carry cookies in their pockets. Can a seemingly incompatible pair find the recipe for love in a relationship they claim is casual?

Continue reading “Definitely, Maybe, Yours by Lissa Reed Blog Tour, Interview, Excerpt & Giveaway!”

Interview with Debut Dreamspinner writer, Jeremy Pack

I’m sure I’ve mentioned that my favorite part of my job is finding new authors.  Don’t get me wrong, I love the old pros who have become friends since MM Good Book Reviews came into existence, but there is nothing like the raw energy from the writer who is seeing their debut novel listed on a publisher’s web site for the first time, to bless my jaded heart.  Jeremy Pack is my latest acquisition and I brought my lead reviewer, Pixie alone for the ride.  Actually, in this case, I’m not sure who is leading who.  Not two hours after I sent Pixie Jeremy’s debut novel, The Heart of the Jungle, I caught Pixie pimping it on Facebook.  Not to be outdone, I made contact with this wonderful young man and the rest, as they say is history.  Jeremy and his partner Jason are really nice guys and I wished they lived closer.

Pixie lives in England and Jeremy lives on the West Coast of the US, but through the magic of technology, they were able to hook up and chat.  Hope you enjoy getting to know Jeremy Pack a little better.  Trust me; he’s going to be on the scene for a long time.

Portia

Friday morning in the MM Good Book Review Cyber Interview Room

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Hi Jeremy, seeing as I’m in England and you’re in America we need to synchronize our watches lol so we can interview in real time.

Jeremy Pack Indeed! You have but to snap your fingers. I’m at your beck and call, Pixie! XO

Friday afternoon

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Is you there? *peeks about*

Jeremy Pack A little slow on the uptake, but I’m present and accounted for. Mostly. XO

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Oh good. Let’s get the grilling, err I mean interview, under way. I will be making it up as I go along, because when I stalked you, er I mean, when I was doing background, I couldn’t find much about you. 😉

Jeremy Pack Wonderful. I’m an open book. (Be glad you can’t see me, though, after that midnight movie, I look like the wreck of the Hesperus.) Do I need to be here or somewhere else?

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Here’s fine Portia will do all the technical stuff later. Lol, that’s what bosses are for. And she’s the best. *innocent look*

Jeremy Pack Brilliant. Don’t make this easy on me, now. Go for the jugular.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Okay, Jeremy tell us a bit about yourself and how you originally started writing.

Jeremy Pack I grew up in a small town in southeastern Idaho. More Mormons per-capita than in the heart of Zion. As far as I was aware, I was the only gay person in the whole world. I didn’t feel like I had a place in the universe, so I started creating my own. I have stacks of spiral notebooks with quirky little romances that I wrote to fulfill that need for intimate affection. Of course, these days, I don’t have a need to invent love to fill an empty place in my life, but I’ve been doing it so long it’s become a part of who I am. Even if I never have the opportunity to publish another book, I am sure I’ll still be writing my quirky little love stories for as long as I live.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews ‎*g* Now there’s a bit of an interesting story as to how you rediscovered The Heart Of The Jungle isn’t there, involving cleaning the attic?

Jeremy Pack Yes. (That attic. Ugh.) Interestingly, I started writing The Heart of the Jungle about 10 years ago and abandoned it about 2/3 of the way through. I have a nasty habit of hitting the midway point, seeing something shiny, and becoming distracted. In any case, I discovered it and got chills because it was as if I had been whispering bits and pieces of what was to come in my own life to my former self. At the time I wrote it, I was struggling in a relationship with a man very much like I describe Michael Blake and dreaming (as I always had) about having children. Years later, I am a VERY proud daddy, and my Jason bears an absolutely UNCANNY resemblance to the one I invented in the book. Even the way Chris is undone at the first sight of his Jason mirrors the schoolboy befuddlement of the first time I laid eyes on mine. My heart still races. That’s why I chose to finish and polish it. Submitting it for publication, though, I owe that one to Jason. He made me do it.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews It sounds like your man, Jason, is very proud of you and what you have achieved and you sound very happy together. So I am going to be very nosy and ask how did you two meet and how old is your daughter Elise?

Jeremy Pack This is the jugular part… HAHA. Good job!

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Of course, you gave me free rein. *evil grin*

Jeremy Pack I mentioned a difficult former relationship earlier–after 14 years, and shortly after Ellie was born, we parted ways. He moved to Phoenix, and Ellie visits him for a couple of weeks every year. I met Jason online while I was there picking her up. I had to spend a couple of days before I could bring her home and was lonely for company. We had instant chemistry–and sushi. We got to know each other over text message for the next several months. Now, a little more than two years later, he’s become an irreplaceable part of both my life and Ellie’s. She worships him, and he is the greatest co-parent I could ever have imagined.

Jeremy Pack Ellie is six now. I adopted her at birth through a local agency that specializes in working with non-traditional families. She’s one of my life’s most beautiful and precious gifts. I imagined parenthood would be wonderful, but the reality is so much more. As Chris says, “It’s something as deep as your soul.”

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews  Aaahhh. That’s so sweet. I love finding out how people fall in love and you are so lucky to have such a beautiful daughter and she looks a touch mischievous. I bet she keeps you both on your toes. *sigh* so back to books. The Heart of the Jungle is your first solo story, but you did release a co-authored book with your mom, Cindy Aitchinson, about ten years ago didn’t you?

Jeremy Pack I did. It’s a quirky little supernatural story. (Not m/m) Mother and son bonding more than a serious go at writing. I think we loved the time spent together coming up with it at this coffee shop called “Jitters”, more than the actual attempt at writing a book. It’s self-published and the joy on my mom’s face at holding the book in her hand the first time is a treasured memory. She’s, without a doubt, the most incredible woman I’ve ever known. I owe all of who I am, as a man, to her example.

Jeremy Pack By the way: Mischievous is an understatement regarding Ellie. It’s a good thing she’s cute, because she’s got my mouth. God save us.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews It sounds like you and your mom have a wonderful relationship. Your mom must be so proud of your new book. For those who haven’t had a chance to read it yet, explain a bit about The Heart of the Jungle.

Jeremy Pack I like to describe The Heart of the Jungle as my diabolical side at work. It’s a mystery primarily, the kind that peels away in layers like an onion the further you go along. The caper at its core is complex, which was a fun mental challenge–particularly revealing it in bits to allow readers the fun of trying to guess at the untangling threads. (I love that kind of story, myself.) There’s a romance between the two main characters which I tried to portray realistically, so readers will likely find it to be more subtle than the standards of the M/M genre. I think Dreamspinner took a chance on this one, because it’s quite different from many of the M/M romances I’ve read. Understandably, this could be off-putting to some readers.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews I have to say I loved it, it was very true to life with the relationship and the mystery, suspense, and thriller part was extremely well-written. What made you take a chance with submitting this one? As how you said, it is different from the majority of M/M, at the moment.

Jeremy Pack First: Thank you so much for those kind words. Gosh, I still feel like I’m dreaming when someone tells me they liked my work…

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews You’d better get used to it. *g*

Jeremy Pack Actually, Jason is to blame for the submission. I have a decided lack of self-confidence and he swore to me if I didn’t send it in, he was going to do it for me. I tried to explain that I didn’t think it would be accepted because it is unconventional, but that was just me having a bad case of the chickenshits.

Jeremy Pack Oops. I probably should keep this clean. Sorry about the naughty word.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Don’t worry Portia will clean it up if need be *smirk*

*pop in*Portia de Moncur I ain’t cleaning up shit. 😉 *pop out*

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews ‎*pout*

Jeremy Pack I’ll be more careful. LOL. I’ve got terminal potty mouth.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews  Lol. You haven’t heard anything, when the boss gets going the air turns blue. *g*

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Jeremy, I saw on your website that you posted a little explanation about not following the convention of what people have come to expect from the M/M genre, can I ask why you felt the need to explain?

Jeremy Pack I have to tell you, I have agonized over the sex in the book for months. I wrote a blog post about it so that readers who look for erotic content don’t walk away disappointed. I don’t know if I will ever be able to write really explicit love scenes. It’s one of those contradictions about me that makes me a bit quirky. Doesn’t mean I don’t love to read them when my fellow authors write them, though. *Wink*

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Yeah, I can totally get on board with that.  Lol. So, I noticed that you have another book in the works; To Touch the Stars is that going to be a mystery as well?

Jeremy Pack My worst nightmare is a disappointed reader. I recognize the value of both time and emotional investment in a story–you have expectations about where the journey might take you when you crack open a book and I’ve been let down more than once in my years of reading. I don’t ever want to do that to someone else.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews I think most readers will enjoy your book quite well, it’s heavy on the story and light on the sex but it is a fantastic story… *face palm* I’m gushing again aren’t I ~rolls eyes~

Jeremy Pack  To Touch the Stars isn’t a mystery actually. It’s certainly got its share of suspense and action, but it’s an historical romance. It was my dream project–a book I didn’t think I had it in me to write. I will very rarely say anything approaching boastful, but I personally feel like it’s the best writing I’ve ever done. I poured my soul into that text, and even if it never sees the light of day, I am proud of the message it delivers.

Jeremy Pack And I’m blushing and grinning like a loon. I adore you!

Jeremy Pack Now that it’s done, though, I’m deep into plotting my next one. It will be a mystery and it’s going to be a doozy. Diabolical Jeremy has learned a thing or two. *Rubs hands together*… So much fun!

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Well, I hope it gets accepted soon so I can read it… err, so we all can read it, I mean. *grins innocently* And I adore your writing. OOoohhh another mystery gimme, gimme, gimme, err what I meant to say was, stop plotting start writing.

Jeremy Pack I write very quickly and have an aggressive schedule set for myself. I hope to always have another submission ready when a book releases so that something is always in the pipeline.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews  Good. I won’t have to put your name on my ‘authors to hunt’ list. *bwahahahah* Okay, Jeremy as a new comer to the genre what would you advise someone who is currently thinking of submitting their work?

Jeremy Pack So very kind of you, Pixie! It makes me so happy that you would look forward to something I’ve written. That’s about the highest honor a writer can be given.

Jeremy Pack M/M is a relatively young genre–it’s an incredibly exciting time to be joining the party. As a writer, it feels like there is a vast amount of uncharted frontier to explore. So far, my experience has been that the audience and the industry are incredibly supportive and open-minded. That’s something you won’t get with a big 6 publisher. Experiment. Don’t be afraid of taking a risk. (Of course I’m saying this selfishly as a reader, too. I LOVE authors that take me to places I’ve never been before.) I can’t wait to see how the genre grows and develops over time–particularly as the risk-takers are embraced by the wide open arms that are waiting to receive them.

Jeremy Pack My God, Pixie, it’s almost 11:00 where you’re at. I feel horrible for keeping you up so late!!

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Did you have anyone that you turned to for advice or support who was already established in the M/M genre?

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Would you like to continue tomorrow maybe a bit earlier? 😉

Jeremy Pack The first M/M novel I ever read was Blind Items by Kate McMurray. When I finished it, I was so overcome; I dashed off a long, gushing letter to her. In hindsight, it felt a bit stalkery, but she was incredibly gracious about it. I’ve been a big fan ever since. She inspired me to hope that there might be a place for my work.

Jeremy Pack Dreamspinner Press maintains a community for authors where we can gather and network. That board has been an absolute godsend for me. The Dreamspinner family is the most amazing group of people I have ever had the good fortune to associate with. I’ve grown immensely from my time with them. Special thanks to Kate Sherwood who gave me fantastic advice early in the writing of To Touch the Stars. I owe my personal pride in that work to her counsel. She is brilliant!

Jeremy Pack And yes, please, sleep! I’m completely free this weekend.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Thank you, what time is it for you now? I can work out a time then that we can meet tomorrow 😉

Jeremy Pack It’s 3:00 in the afternoon here in Seattle.

Jeremy Pack I’m usually up by 5:30 or 6:00 am. Happy to connect with you anytime after I’ve had my first cup of coffee.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews  Wow.  Really? Okay, so I will be on about 4pm which should be your 8am. 😉 I will have plenty of tea at hand, so I will be happy.

Jeremy Pack Wonderful. I’ll be at the keyboard. Sweet dreams to you, Pixie! Thank you again for absolutely everything. I really can’t begin to tell you how grateful I am.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Tell me tomorrow *grins cheekily* night or afternoon. *wink*

Jeremy Pack LOL–Goodnight!

Saturday morning

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Helllooo are you there, Jeremy? Let me know if you are receiving me on the other side. wooo hooo *grin*

Jeremy Pack Hey, good morning! I hope you got some good sleep last night.

Jeremy Pack Guess it is evening for you, though…

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews I slept like a baby. 😉 And it’s late afternoon, so I will just ask a few more questions so it shouldn’t take too long.

Jeremy Pack I’m yours for as long as you’ll have me, Pixie. 😉

*pop in*Portia de Moncur ‎*rolling eyes* Oh, God…chill with the kissing up…the little imp is already plotting world domination…next it will be the universe *off to get first cup of coffee**pop out*

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Ah, Honey, don’t make me offers like that. I just might keep you as my personal author. LOL. So you are with Dreamspinner Press. I have to ask because as a reader I really don’t know, but do they offer loads of support and walk you through the process and stuff and if they do explain it to us readers.

Jeremy Pack LOL Portia de

Jeremy Pack The team at Dreamspinner has been absolutely wonderful. Writing a book is only the first step in a long process before release. Each book goes through three rounds of edits and a couple of proof-reads, not to mention blurb writing, cover art, and marketing… The editors are excellent. They saved readers from a 12 hour car trip without a single stop to pee, a corpse abandoned in a closet, and a magically appearing cigarette in the hand of my favorite character. Every step of the way, Elizabeth (the Executive Director) and Lynn (the Editor in Chief) made themselves available to me. If I had a question, they responded to me nearly instantaneously. I NEVER expected that the production process would be so user-friendly. Aside from that, the author community is always buzzing and jam-packed with folks willing to offer advice and support.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews That’s wonderful, it’s nice to know our favorite authors are taken care of. So when you write do you have a certain process that you follow or is it just when it comes to you?

Jeremy Pack I generally write a couple of chapters if I have a new idea to see if the story has legs. If it does, I’ll write an outline and character biographies. I do a lot of research, too–both experiential kinds of research (like learning to fly a plane) as well as lots and lots of reading. I like to develop a good working knowledge of a subject, even if I don’t include all of the little details. I write in a very linear way. Beginning to end, and whenever I can spare a moment. There’s a lovely Zen garden at my workplace where I sit on lunch breaks, and I often dictate in the car on my commute home. During polishing, one other thing that helps me is to listen to my work read aloud. I use a software program that converts the text into speech. “Amy”, the synthesized voice, is a very proper British woman who has become almost like a real person to me. I LOVE her! (And she cracks me up when she uses invective. It’s priceless!)

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Hmmm but you don’t call her ‘Amy’ do you?

Jeremy Pack No way. Amy is much too bland. She sounds uncannily like Anjelica Houston to me. We’re on nickname basis now, so I have taken to calling her Angie-baby.

Jeremy Pack To wax serious for a moment, though: Flow and cadence are something I really strive for in my writing. Listening to the text aloud helps me find stuttering passages and repetition. It also helps me make sure my characters speak distinctly.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews I can guess at what she would call you if she could! And it great that you do that as well Jeremy I can’t tell you the amount of times that I have been heaved out of a book because the speech is to bland or just sounds wrong (the voices talk in my head… don’t push it). So other than creating nicknames for voices what else do you do in your spare time (you know those five minutes in between your work, writing, partner and daughter) 😉

Jeremy Pack Free time? What’s that?

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews LOL, so no hobbies besides going to see the Avengers film at MIDNIGHT

Jeremy Pack Kidding. My house was built in the late 1800s, so I do a lot of renovation–and I love it. Jason and I like to go camping and fishing in the summer. I read voraciously, play video games with Elise, garden. I’m very dull in real life… haha.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Ah reading… so what types of books do you read and who’s your favorite author?

Jeremy Pack I’m very genre agnostic. I tore through the Pendergast series by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child. (Excellent, excellent mysteries) and loved them. I’m a big fan of Dean Koontz, as well, and I adore Mary Roach (Bonk and Packing for Mars). On the M/M side, I’ve recently read Poppy Dennison’s Mind Magic and loved it, anything by Rick Reed, and of course I continue to be a big fan of Kate McMurray.

Jeremy Pack My favorite author is Jean M. Auel–if only for The Clan of the Cave Bear. I read it in my formative years, and for anyone who has ever been an outsider, it’s positively inspiring. I make a yearly pilgrimage with it. It’s absolutely my most cherished book of all time.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews You have excellent taste. I applaud you. So I will be bringing this interview to a close soon and I will be asking all authors this question… and then making up a personality type for each answer. * Bwahahahaha…* If the world suddenly became a magical place what magical creature would you be?

Jeremy Pack Wow. Excellent question. Ponders…

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews It could also be a mythical creature 😉

Jeremy Pack I think I would have to choose a sprite–like Puck from a Midsummer Night’s Dream. I’m a little bit mischievous and elusive myself, so having license to give in to those inclinations is appealing. Plus, the whole sylvan lifestyle. Yes, please.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Hmmm I will have to think up something suitable *evil grin*. So Jeremy let you legions of fans know where they can find you.

Jeremy Pack Disclaimer: Sprite Attire + Jeremy = Eww… Imagine at your own risk. LOL

Jeremy Pack I’m on the web at www.jeremy-pack.com, twitter @JeremyPack1973, and Facebook at www.facebook.com/JeremyJPack, FB Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/Author.JeremyPack

Jeremy Pack www.jeremy-pack.com

All things Jeremy

Jeremy Pack Legions of fans… LOL.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews  Yes. I say Legions, so it will be Legions, so says the Pixie. Ohhhh. I missed that what does the J stand for.

Jeremy Pack Oh no. This is REALLY the jugular.

Jeremy Pack My middle name is Joe. Jeremy Joe.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Ha ha, that’s why Portia usually keeps me looked in a cage lol

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews And that should say Locked

Jeremy Pack LOL–mean Portia!*pop in* Whatever.*pop out*

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Okay. Jeremy I think that’s everything I can think of at the moment, if I have missed anything I am sure Portia will tell me. But, I want to thank you for taking time out of your busy days to answer my questions and say it was a pleasure to chat with you and hope we can do it again.

Jeremy Pack I’ve loved spending time with you, Pixie. I hope I haven’t bored you to tears, ’cause I’ve had a great time! Really hope we get the chance to meet in real life. I owe you a big hug, or at least a stiff drink.

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews No pure pleasure Jeremy and thanks again and if you do come to England I am sure we can arrange something 😉

Jeremy Pack Added to the bucket list. Now off to slay the pernicious morning glory. The nasty bitch is trying to kill my lilacs. Hope you have a wonderful evening, Pixie. Don’t be a stranger!

Pixie Mmgoodbookreviews Bye

A Hard Winter Rain by John Inman

Title:  A  Hard Winter Rain

Author: John Inman

Genre: Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel (300pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (5th March 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Sean Andros is tired—tired of hustling, tired of trying to make the rent, tired of running from his past.

But the past can chase you down in a heartbeat. Suddenly Sean’s living a nightmare again and casualties are stacking up around him. The only person he can trust is Harry, a man twice his age and the closest thing to a friend Sean has ever known. Harry Connors has loved Sean since their first night together, and now, with danger hard at their heels, Harry will do anything to protect the tough, strangely vulnerable young man who begs him for help.

Harry had better be serious about offering protection, though, because the demons threatening Sean’s life are no joke. Only a hard winter rain will wash away the evil that drove Sean Andros to the streets, and Sean and Harry are going to have to be strong if they plan on sticking around for the sun.

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title contains scenes of rape.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2804

Review: Sean is in serious trouble.   His past has come back for him, but he really doesn’t have a clue who from his past it could be.   When Sean flees the scene of a murder, he runs right into Harry’s arms.  Harry convinces Sean to let him help and it is the beginning of a game of cat and mouse with an insane killer who will stop at nothing to make Sean pay.  As the two men try to think of a way to end the game, they become what Harry had always hoped for.

This is an incredible well-written story that starts out intense and doesn’t let up until the very end.  Sean is a hustler and while he dreams of having a better life, he knows that at the moment hustling pays well.  Harry owns his own hair salon and is forty-five.   He dreams of having a relationship with Sean, who is more than half his age. These two men come together when Sean needs protection and it is a fight for both of them to survive.  The pale man is out to punish Sean.   Sean caused him to commit his one sin and now he needs cleansing, he is doing God’s work, a mission that would give him absolution and nothing will stand in his way.

This book is from several POVs, from Harry and Sean’s, to the Pale man, to the lead detectives.   We get a well-rounded full view of all aspects of the story and I have to say I loved it.   We get the feelings of each person and the reasons behind why they do stuff.  So, instead of sitting there baffled by what a person has done you completely understand exactly what is going on.  You get to relate to characters that we wouldn’t normally get the chance to and it gave the author a wider scope to work with. The main story in this book is about the plan to set-up and kill Sean, the reason behind it and the murders the Pale man commits.   The story of Harry and Sean is there, but it lingers in the background, only coming forward when it needs to.  We also get to know the two main detectives very well and they add a bit of light relief at times.

The relationship between Harry and Sean really is secondary, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t important because seeing these two come together is really nice.   Yes, at first, you doubt that Sean is being serious, but then you realize that he really does genuinely care for Harry and they fit together nicely.

With this one I am going to recommend it to those who love mystery, suspense, danger, tension, conflict, protective friends, fantastic characters, a brilliant story-line and a happy ending for Sean and Harry.