Us Against the World by Shayne Prescott #kindleunlimited

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Book Title: Us Against the World

Author: Shayne Prescott

Publisher: Self-Published - Spartakittah Press

Cover Artist: GetCovers.com

Release Date: February 1, 2022

Genre: Contemporary M/M Romance

Tropes: Friends to lovers, sports, college

Themes: Bullying

Heat Rating:  3 flames

Length: 65 000 words

It is a standalone story and does not end on a cliffhanger.

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Betrayed by the only family he's ever known, Owen must decide: for love or team?

Blurb

Betrayed by the only family he's ever known, Owen must decide: for love or team?
 
For Roseden University frosh Theo Carter, the journey to his true self has been long and publicized. It seems most everyone on campus saw the TV series in which he was transitioning, and some feel very strongly he doesn't belong at the prestigious all-male school. Struggling with classes and bullying, junior Owen Lewis swoops in like his own personal savior.  But as the heat rises between the two, so too does the torment from some of the school's lacrosse team.
 
As a product of the foster care system, Owen knows all about not being wanted.  That's why his lacrosse teammates are so important to him — they've become the closest thing he's found to a real family.  Being bounced around constantly between different homes with just a plastic bag of his possessions taught Owen there was no such thing as love. But if that's true, why does Theo feel like a home he's never known? Owen is convinced that nothing will stop him from protecting Theo — but what if the choice is between his found family and his first love?
 
When all seems lost, both have choices to make. Will they choose each other?
 
Us Against the World is a 65 000-word HEA set at the fictional Roseden University, in Roseden, Pennsylvania. It is the first in the series of Roseden U books, and contains some derogatory language (LGBTQIA+)

Excerpt 

When I finally reached the campus bookstore, it was virtually empty, and I breathed a sigh of relief, though a staffer quickly came to greet me. Owen, according to his name tag, tall and Black, had a build like a football player. A stunning individual, it took all of my willpower to keep my jaw from hitting the ground.

 “Hi! Do you need help finding your books?” My books, my brain, my capacity to speak…

 “Y-yes.” My tongue tangled like when I was a kid, when I’d had a mouth full of Gobstoppers and couldn’t manage any words. I bet I looked really intelligent.

 Owen grinned at me, either oblivious or nonplussed by my brainless moments. “Do you have your class schedule? I’ll need that to find your books.”

 “Sure do,” I confirmed. I handed him my class list and he looked it over, nodding quietly to himself before suddenly grinning even wider at me.

 “You’re in my Spanish class. But I don’t remember seeing you in the fall semester?”

 “I took the fall semester online, back home in New Hampshire.” Before he could ask why — I could see the curiosity on his chiseled face — I explained. “I had surgery early in the year; it made more sense to be home, rather than recovering here.” Smooth, Theo, so smooth. Why don’t you tell him about the time you tripped and skinned both knees while you’re at it?

 Owen nodded. “I totally get that. So since you’ve got Spanish covered, it’ll just be the other four classes?”

 “Yeah. Take all my money,” I groused, and he laughed, which made my stomach do a little flip-flop. I fought the urge to groan. I needed to get over myself. I didn’t know this guy, and despite him looking damn good, I shouldn’t have been swooning.

 Owen went off to search the stacks for the books, while I decided to pick up some more highlighters. I’d brought some from home, but given the current state of my Spanish book, it would take me no time at all before those were dried up and in need of replacements. Finding a five-pack of assorted colors, I made a happy little noise and snatched them up, coming back to the book section just as Owen approached with a thick stack of books.

 “Oh God. How am I going to get all of those back to my dorm?” Yes, Theo, complain to the handsome man about your own ineptitude.

 Owen peeked around the books to peer down at me. “You didn’t bring a backpack?” I shook my head morosely. “Two options. You can either buy a Roseden one, or if you’ve got one back in your room, I can set the books aside while you go grab it.”

 “Can you really set them aside?” Owen nodded. “Okay, thanks! I’ll get back here as fast as I can.”

 “Don’t rush,” Owen assured me with a dazzling smile. “It’s been slow. More professors are going for online textbooks instead of the physical ones.”

 I hazarded a glance at my stack. “Not mine, it seems.” Owen winked at me and my stomach fluttered again. I started towards the door, then remembered the highlighters in my hand. Turning, I placed them beside my texts. “I’ll pay for those, too, when I come back.” Owen gave me a friendly wave, and then I was off, back to Tucker Hall.

About the Author 

Shayne Prescott has been putting together books since his medium was scraps of paper and pencil nubs. A children’s book was considered for publication while in middle school, and his short stories were often a favorite of his beloved English teacher, Mrs. Mazzacarro. Still, he writes.

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The Slow Death by Nic Starr and BL Maxwell #kindleunlimited #giveaway

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Book Title: The Slow Death 

Authors: Nic Starr and BL Maxwell 

Release Date: January 26, 2022

Genre: MM Paranormal Romance

Tropes: Forbidden Love, Fated Mates, Reluctant Alpha 

Themes: Forgiveness, New Alpha, Shifter Society

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 46 000 words/ 165 pages

It is the first book in a trilogy, but does not end on a cliffhanger.

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Caught in the fallout of a rare disease, and members of opposing packs, Zander and Marrok’s future as fated mates hangs in the balance.

Blurb

Alexander Kingston wasn’t destined to lead the East Territory pack, but fate had other ideas. Becoming the next Alpha in his dead brother’s place and managing his father’s expectations is a challenge, one that’s only getting harder with time. When his father, the Alpha is reluctant to accept outside assistance when one of their own is afflicted with a deadly blood disorder, Zander must take a stand against his father or lose another pack member to The Slow Death.

Marrok Blain is part of the North Territory pack. With his unique knowledge of The Slow Death, the debilitating progressive disorder that slowly kills with every shift, he offers help, knowing he’ll be met with resistance from his friend’s pack. What he doesn’t expect is the overwhelming pull to the stubborn yet undeniably gorgeous son of the East Territory Alpha.

Four packs coexisting with rising tensions, and a genetic disorder that reminds them of the common thread that connects them all. Zander and Marrok are the key to an uneasy alliance, or all the packs will suffer. Especially Zander, who discovers he’s got one more deadly fight to face.

Excerpt 

“I need to speak to the alpha!” Marrok tried to move past the other man who stood slightly taller than his own six foot two.

“Sorry, he’s busy. Can I help you?” He stepped right in front of Marrok again.

“I want to speak to the alpha!” he gritted out, his patience gone.

“What’s going on out here?”

The power of the alpha was immediately felt and Marrok fought and lost as he tried not to bow his head in submission and respect.

“I want to know why you’re not doing more to find Grady a donor.”

The guy who’d tried to stop Marrok stayed close, his eyes focused on him. Marrok shot him a look, and when their eyes locked a force more powerful than even the command of the alpha rippled across his senses. It was there and gone so fast he didn’t have time to put a name to it, so ignoring the shocked expression that crossed the other man’s face, he forced his eyes back to the alpha.

“I want some answers, and if I can help, I want to be involved. Grady’s important to me, and if you’re not willing to help him I will. There’s no chance in hell I’ll let him die without a fight.”

Marrok glanced again at the man who still had his eyes locked on him and now had his arms crossed in obvious annoyance, before looking back to the alpha.

“You must be Marrok. I’m Andreas, Alpha of East Territory. This is my son Alexander.”

Marrok looked between the two men and saw the resemblance but didn’t care who the guy was. Whatever had passed between them didn’t matter. His friend came first, and the fact that they had let him decline so much before seeking help pissed him off.

“Why didn’t you reach out sooner? You know we’re close to finding a cure, but even without a cure our registry might help him find a donor.”

The alpha looked to his son and Alexander looked away, out of frustration or shame, Marrok wasn’t sure. He turned to Marrok again. “We’ve done all we can. Don’t you dare storm in here and talk to me this way. I spoke to your grandfather and agreed to see you as a courtesy, but I will not listen to you imply that I don’t care about our pack members. Now if you’ll kindly make an appointment—”

“Great.” The word dripped with sarcasm. He didn’t try to hide his frustration, and he wouldn’t play nice to appease the feelings of a stranger, no matter who they were. Both of them were responsible for Grady’s situation as far as he was concerned, and both of them would pay if Grady succumbed to TSD. Marrok knew he couldn’t hurt them physically, but he could withhold any information and data that would help them and their pack in the future. “How about you let me know when you’re finally ready to save your pack member?”

He realized he’d been staring at Alexander since the alpha had spoken, and he also realized he hated whatever was between them. Alexander narrowed his eyes, and Marrok knew he felt the same. He took one more look at the most beautiful blue eyes he’d ever seen, before turning on his heel and storming from the building.

About the Authors

BL Maxwell

BL Maxwell grew up in a small town listening to her grandfather spin tales about his childhood. Later she became an avid reader and after a certain vampire series she became obsessed with fanfiction. She soon discovered Slash fanfiction and later discovered the MM genre and was hooked. 

Contact and Social Media Links

Nic Starr

Nic Starr lives in Australia where she tries to squeeze as much into her busy life as possible. Balancing the demands of a corporate career with raising a family and writing can be challenging but she wouldn’t give it up for the world.

Always a reader, the lure of m/m romance was strong and she devoured hundreds of wonderful m/m romance books before eventually realising she had some stories of her own that needed to be told!

When not writing or reading, she loves to spend time with her family–an understanding husband and two beautiful daughters–and is often found indulging in her love of cooking and planning her dream home in the country.

You can find Nic on Facebook, Twitter and her blog. She’d love it if you stopped by to say hi.

Contact and Social Media Links

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Bona Fide Fake by Rebecca Raine #kindleunlimited #giveaway

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Book Title: Bona Fide Fake

Author: Rebecca Raine

Publisher: Self-published

Cover Artist: Bec Rivers

Release Date: 24/01/22

Genre/s: Contemporary M/M Romance

Trope/s: Fake boyfriends, Rock star, Mild sub/dom vibes

Themes: Authenticity, Trust in self and others

 Heat Rating:  4 flames  

Length:  80 000 words

This is Book Two of the Experimental Love series, but it can be read as a standalone. 

The book does not end on a cliffhanger. It has a solid HEA.

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My new fake boyfriend may not like me, but he needs me. There are worse foundations for a relationship.

Blurb 

Ned

Toni Fairweather is a liar and a fake. I suspected it the day we met, but when he lies to his friends about being my boyfriend, I know for sure. I’ll play along with his deception, but Toni will owe me – big time.

I have my own reasons for needing a boyfriend. Someone who can handle me. Someone who can keep me in line. Toni is demanding enough to fulfil every requirement.

I don’t need to like the man… to obey him.

Toni

I never meant to fake a relationship with the lead singer of a local rock band. But the fib popped out over lunch with my best friend, and now I’m expected to present my new boyfriend at his engagement party next month.

The good news? I’m not the only one in need of a date.

Being boyfriends for a month shouldn’t be hard, but I do have one condition: this won’t be some fake boyfriends deal. I want a real relationship, and Ned’s going to give it to me.

Excerpt 

 From Chapter Six (Toni’s Point of View)

“You need a date for the festival. I need a date for Rodney and Leif’s engagement party next month. The answer is obvious.” I place a hand over my chest in a show of sincerity. “I think we should be boyfriends.”

Ned’s head falls back as he laughs out loud. “That’s why you’re here? You want to rope me into going to the engagement party with you?”

Hilarity isn’t the response I’d hoped for, but it’s better than instant rejection. “You have to admit, a twenty-minute acting job does not equate to an entire weekend away. This is simply a way to bring our arrangement back into balance. It’s only fair.”

He shakes his head at me. “How long are you planning to drag this fake boyfriend thing out?”

“Just until after the party. Then, we can break up and go our separate ways. It won’t be messy,” I assure him. “If there’s any moping to be done, I’ll keep it to myself. You’ll never have to hear from me again. However…” I lift a pointed finger to make sure he’s paying attention. “I don’t want to be fake boyfriends. I want to be real boyfriends.”

Ned’s amusement is replaced by confusion. “Real boyfriends.”

“Yes.”

“Just like that?”

“Why not just like that?”

He gapes at me in disbelief. “People don’t go around deciding to be real boyfriends as though a relationship can be plucked out of thin air. It has to come naturally. You get to know each other, spend time together, develop actualfeelings.” He gestures between us with one hand. “Do you have any actual feelings for me, Toni?”

“Yes,” I insist. “I think you’re incredibly sexy. That counts, doesn’t it?” His groan—half exasperation, half lust—makes me smile.

“Usually yes, but in this context not so much.” He crosses his arms over his chest. “We might be able to fake a real relationship for other people, but we can’t actually make it real. Tell me you know this.”

“Of course, I do.” In theory. My longest ‘real’ relationship didn’t make it to a monthiversary, so my practical experience is somewhat lacking. “But can’t we skip over all the getting to know you crap and go straight to the part where you adore me, and I make you happy?”

Groaning, Ned drops his head forwards.

“You need this as much as I do,” I snap. “Maybe more.”

Straightening, he places his hands on his hips. “How do you figure?”

“If we go down to the festival as friends, or let’s face it acquaintances, then I’ll be hard-pressed to stop you doing anything. This ex of yours will have power over you, and I will have none.” Ned opens his mouth as if to disagree with me, but then he must see sense because he closes it again. “If I’m your boyfriend… I will have power, too.” I give him a moment to contemplate my statement before I continue. “Trust me when I say I’m the jealous type. As long as we’re together, there is no way in hell anyone will be touching you but me. There will be no getting seduced by your ex. No sneaking off into dark corners to be fawned over by groupies. Nada. You’ll be my boyfriend, and I will not allow you to disrespect our relationship.”

He stares at me with wide eyes, a slow smile appearing as his ears turn a lovely shade of pink. “I take it you don’t like to share?”

The word alone makes me grit my teeth. “I don’t even want to share the air you breathe.”

His tongue darts out to swipe across his bottom lip as he contemplates my offer. Taking a deep breath, he nods his agreement. “All right, you’ve convinced me. Real boyfriends it is.” A smile bursts onto my face, and his eyes close on a quiet groan. “Holy fuck, those dimples will be the death of me.”

  About the Author  

Rebecca is a long-time lover of all things romance. Whether it’s a book, movie, or real life, she will always have more fun if there’s a love interest thrown into the mix. She lives in Queensland, Australia with her very own hero husband, two quirky kids and one big, black dog. Other than reading and writing books, her favourite things include loud music, enjoying a glass of wine on the patio, organising everything in existence, and spending too much time on the Internet.

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Ride or Die (Food Truck Warriors #6) by Beth Bolden #kindleunlimited #giveaway

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Book Title: Ride or Die (Food Truck Warriors #6)

Author: Beth Bolden

Publisher: Beth Bolden Books

Cover Artist: Cate Ashwood Designs

Release Date: January 20, 2022

Genre: Contemporary gay romance

Tropes: Bad boy, secret admirer, hookups versus relationships

Themes: Overcoming fear, found family, embracing change

Heat Rating:  4 flames  

Length:  80 000 words

It is not a standalone story. 

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Can Ren’s bad boy heart be wooed and won?

Blurb

Ren Moretti likes his life—and his hookups—just the way they are: fast and loose.

He only ever hooks up with someone once, and relationships? Forget it. Never gonna happen. No guy has ever persuaded him to bend, break, or alter his one date and one night rule.

Until Seth Abramson.

Seth has always tempted Ren—but it’s not a secret that Seth won’t settle for just one night. A few dates won’t cut it, and he’s not interested in playing around. He wants it all, and he intends to win Ren’s heart.

But that’s the one thing Ren’s never given up. He guards it closely and fiercely, until one day, when he realizes it’s no longer his to protect, it’s belonged to Seth all along.

 Excerpt 

“You gonna order?” Ren asked. Hoping that he understood exactly what he meant. And he wasn’t talking about sandwiches.

“Oh yeah, I definitely am,” Seth said, and Ren’s stomach fluttered.

There was something so decisive and grown up about this guy.

Like he’d throw Ren over his shoulder and cart him back to his bedroom.

“What can I get you?” Ren asked.

Me. I can get you me. And you’d enjoy every second of it. Trust me. I’m delicious.

“That’s a real good question,” Seth said.

“I’m going to get lunch,” Lennox announced, and nobody was surprised to see him head off towards Ash’s food truck.

“Well, if you want a recommendation,” Gabe said, and Ren wished that his cousin would go do anything else right now, “you can’t go wrong with the Thai meatball crunch wrap.”

“Does everything have balls or buns?” Seth wanted to know.

Oh, Ren wanted to show him.

So badly that he deployed the smile that he usually saved for closing the deal. But then, he was closing the deal right now, wasn’t he? He could feel it in his bones.

Specifically one bone in particular.

“Yes,” Ren said.

“Straightforward,” Seth said, taking a step nearer, and now Ren could really get a good look at him. He was even sexier in higher definition and he’d made Ren’s mouth water even without the close-up look. “I like it.”

“See anything else you like?” Ren decided there was no point in delaying. They were both clearly interested. “Lucky for you, I just happen to be free tonight.”

Somehow, impossibly, Seth’s own closing smile was even more devastating than Ren’s own.

Ren was unmoored. Blown away. Blown apart.

What would it be like to be under him, when he smiled like that?

What would it feel like to kiss that smile off him?

He was going to get to find out. Ren could feel it. Could nearly taste it.

“Really straightforward,” Seth said, not sounding like he hated that at all.

“Why bother pretending that you don’t just want a sandwich?” Ren shrugged. “We’re both interested. I’m free tonight, and I know we’d both enjoy ourselves.”

“What about tomorrow, then?”

Ren had learned the hard way that it was better to always be honest about his intentions. But this guy, even if he didn’t do one-night stands, was so hooked that Ren knew there was no way he’d ever turn him down.

Ren could feel the other side of the hook, buried in him, tugging him even closer, and he dared anyone to try to resist that completely irresistible pull.

“What about tomorrow?” Ren asked archly. “Why do we have to worry about tomorrow?”

“I’m all about the tomorrows,” he admitted with a shrug. “I’m not here for just the tonights. I want to know there’s going to be a tomorrow, too.”

Ren frowned. “I don’t do tomorrows. Not when tonights are so freaking great.”

“Then I guess I’ll have to make do with just a sandwich.” Seth sounded genuinely regretful, which was why Ren didn’t even register the rejection right away. He’d been so goddamned nice about it. Like he hadn’t wanted to say no.

About the Author 

A lifelong Pacific Northwester, Beth Bolden has just recently moved to North Carolina with her supportive husband. Beth still believes in Keeping Portland Weird, and intends to be just as weird in Raleigh.

Beth has been writing practically since she learned the alphabet. Unfortunately, her first foray into novel writing, titled Big Bear with Sparkly Earrings, wasn’t a bestseller, but hope springs eternal. She’s published twenty-three novels and seven novellas.

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New Release - In Vineyard Veritas by Clancy Nacht & Thursday Euclid

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Book Title: In Vineyard Veritas

Author: Clancy Nacht & Thursday Euclid

Publisher: Eine Kleine Press

Cover Artist: Clancy Nacht

Release Date: January 21, 2022

Genres: LGBTQ Cozy mystery, trans man

Tropes: Amateur sleuth, favorite aunt dies, going back home again, mystery

Themes: Coming back home, finding where you belong

Heat Rating:  0 flames

Length:  206 pages

It is a standalone story. 

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In wine, truth. In vineyard… mystery.

Blurb

Local police summon retired CTO Geraldine Thorn from her Austin lake house to Kitsch, Texas, the small town where she grew up, when her beloved Aunt Tilda is found dead at her vineyard home, presumably from a slip in the bath. Upon arrival, Gerry discovers Tilda's eclectic group of friends—including a much, much younger lover—and rivals. When they realize Tilda's slip wasn't an accident, Gerry enlists the help of a handsome Texas Ranger with secrets of his own.

Excerpt 

“Howdy. Ms. Geraldine Thorn? This is Sgt. Hale Alexander with the Texas Ranger Division Company F.” Hale’s voice was a pleasantly raspy tenor with a thick East Texas drawl. “The Arguello County PD requested my assistance with a mysterious death. A Lt. Klaus gave me this number. He said, and I quote, ‘May you have the joy of her,’ and washed his hands of this affair. Don’t think you’ve got a fan, ma’am.”

“I’m friendlier when I’m not upset about my aunt dying.” Gerry felt a pang of frustration, but she appreciated that this guy sounded like he’d be reasonable. “I appreciate you looking into this. Things aren’t adding up.”

“Well, ma’am, this is highly irregular, involving the Rangers in this kind of thing, but I’m on my way to Kitsch now from Waco, and we’ll see what there is to see. The autopsy report had some discrepancies, so your gut may hold true. Don’t go quotin’ me on that, all right?” Hale cussed under his breath, and the sound of a car horn interrupted their conversation.

Sounding calmer, he resumed, “Anyhow, I’m gonna have to view the body before she’s laid to rest, if that’s all right with you, ma’am. I understand you’re gonna wanna get closure, put her in the ground soon’s you can, but this is important.”

“Of course. I just came from the funeral home, I can let them know to hold off picking her up.” She paused and looked up and down the street. “Is there any way I could join you? I just want to… I think if I saw her with my own eyes it would help me wrap my head around what happened.”

Discrepancies. That sounded… positive? Not exactly that, but it was nice to hear that she wasn’t totally losing it. “If she’d had too much wine and slipped in the tub— that would make sense, but opioids? I just… and there’s a young man, and… there are things that don’t add up. I want to do right by my aunt.”

“That’s admirable, ma’am. But are you sure you wanna see your aunt in that state? She’s been autopsied, and she’ll be nekkid as a jaybird on that slab. It’s gonna stay with you.” Hale didn’t shoot her down, which was something. If anything, he sounded supportive. There was a steadying warmth in his tone even over the phone.

“She wouldn’t like my delicate sensibilities getting in the way of finding out what happened if someone did this to her.” Seeing Tilda’s body wasn’t something she was looking forward to, but she needed to know. “I’ll be all right.”

“All right then, ma’am. Text me your address to this number, and I’ll swing ’round and nab you. You’re not gonna wanna drive after. I’m an hour out.” Hale’s drawl was comforting. While Gerry wasn’t really a small-town girl, she had a feeling Hale’s good ole boy persona would play well in Kitsch, and no one was going to turn away a Ranger’s inquiries.

“I’m already downtown. I can…” She looked around and then shrugged to head to her car. “I’ll just go home, and text you the address. It’s on a vineyard, so it’s a little out of town, but I imagine an investigator shouldn’t have too hard a time finding it. Thanks.”

About the Authors 

Together, Texans and platonic life partners Thursday Euclid and Clancy Nacht write queer novels that span genres, with intense romances and a seamless shared narrative voice.

They published their first co-written novel, the m/m rock star romance Black Gold, in 2010, and now have over a decade of award-winning collaborations under their exquisite belts. Recent titles include the twisted romance His Fake Prison Daddy and the Phisher King series, in which an uptight federal agent and a bratty hacker go from enemies to lovers while solving a hate crime.

Though Elder Millennial trans man Thursday and Gen X gender outlaw Clancy live three hours apart, they are inseparable. Their friendship is a perfect example of the Grumpy/Sunshine trope, which makes Thursday very happy. Clancy thinks it’s all right.

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Embers of Darkness (D’Vaire, Book 27) by Jessamyn Kingley

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Book Title:  Embers of Darkness (D’Vaire, Book 27)

Author: Jessamyn Kingley

Publisher: Independently Published

Cover Artist: LJ Anderson, Mayhem Cover Creations

Release Date: February 3, 2022

Genres: M/M Romance, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy Romance 

Trope/s: Fated mates

Themes: Love, reconciling the past

Heat Rating:  3 flames

Length: 90 503 words

It is not a standalone story. The book does not end on a cliffhanger.

Check out the D'vaire Series on Goodreads

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To embrace the future and find love, both men must face the darkness of their pasts. 

Blurb

A man torn between what his soul wants and what he believes is expected of him, Scheredin D’Vaire is still fiercely loyal to his family. Scheredin is one of the few remaining warlocks and spends his days aiding his cousins in running the D’Vaire sanctuary. In his free time, Scheredin loves gaming. With the tap of a few keys, Scheredin can lose himself in another world. 

Kieran Tarinthfenix is a phoenix shifter whose tribe likes to forget that elf blood also runs through their veins. A driven man, Kieran takes his hobby of gaming and learns to craft titles of his own. He hands his income to his chieftain despite Kieran’s lack of respect for a man who forces his people to take part in an ancient but cruel ceremony every year.

Scheredin and Kieran meet online and quickly grow into gaming buddies. For years, they are content with an online relationship and the anonymity it provides. When Scheredin decides to meet Kieran in person, they discover they’re mates, but there are secrets between them. To find lasting love, both men will have to throw away the past and seize their destinies.

Excerpt 

A product of elven blood, even though the Tarinthfenix refused to admit it, Kieran had lacked any kind of sexuality until that moment. His breath caught, knowing that inside the shop was his mate. Stepping into the bright space, Kieran scanned the customers, and his silver gaze with hints of purple locked on a short man with dark hair and a light goatee. 

His expression was one of shock, and there was little else to read in his heavily lashed green eyes. In his hand was a stunning lily of blue and black, which brought a smile to Kieran’s face. Somehow, it made perfect sense that the man he’d become instant friends with all those years ago was the other half of his soul.

Crossing the distance that separated them, Kieran’s grin grew as he delightedly considered the handsome man still staring at him blankly. “Hi, Scheredin.”

“Hi, Keladriel. I’m Brexton,” said the man at Scheredin’s side, who resembled him a great deal.

“A pleasure to meet you, Brexton,” Kieran replied immediately and flicked his attention back to Scheredin.

Brexton nudged Scheredin’s shoulder. 

“Say hello,” he murmured to Scheredin, whose mouth snapped shut.

“Hi, Keladriel,” Scheredin whispered.

“Crazy, right?” Kieran asked. “Makes me kind of mad. We should’ve planned this a long time ago.”

“What does that mean?” demanded a broad-shouldered man with navy eyes and soft brown curls.

“Keladriel is my mate, Brogan,” Scheredin told the tall guy.

“Are you fucking kidding me?” yelled a man around Scheredin’s height as his hands rose to grab fistfuls of his blond ringlets, catching the attention of several customers.

“You can calm down,” Brogan growled. “I already know you’re going to give me shit for the rest of eternity.”

“Hi, I’m Dra’Kaedan,” the blond said, shouldering his way between Scheredin and Brexton to wave. “I was so excited I nearly forgot and tried to shake your hand.”

Kieran was seconds away from refuting Dra’Kaedan’s assumption that he was an elf, despite his ears and attire, when the name hit him. “Like, Grand Warlock Dra’Kaedan D’Vaire?” 

Although he wasn’t allowed to explore the outside world, it fascinated Kieran, and he’d often read about the famous people within the Council. As far as Kieran could tell from the online newspapers, there were few families as reputable and powerful as the D’Vaires, so it made sense that people would name their kids after the royal family.

“He is Grand Warlock Dra’Kaedan D’Vaire,” Scheredin remarked. “We’re all D’Vaires. The tall guy behind him is his mate, Grand Duke Brogan D’Vairedraconis. At the table next to you pretending not to listen are Coven Lord Bridger D’Vaire and Coven Lord Hadley D’Vaire. They’re here to protect me in case you turned out to be a homicidal maniac planning to butcher me in a coffee shop or whatever other nefarious idea Brogan had for what might happen today.”

“Why does everyone always make me sound crazy?” Brogan demanded.

“Please, you do that all by yourself, Mate,” Dra’Kaedan muttered.

“Do you follow all elven traditions even though you aren’t a part of the Council?” Brexton asked, cocking his head.

Kieran wasn’t fond of lies, but there was no hesitation in his soul over his matebond. Although they had plenty to learn about each other, Kieran knew Scheredin’s character and was wildly attracted to him. He was ready to explore his new sexuality with the attractive man studying him, and Kieran understood that their belief that he was an elf named Keladriel could help speed up the process of binding them together for eternity. 

Not only would Kieran not have to wait to be with Scheredin, but he could also finally walk away from the Tarinthfenix without guilt.  Fate wanted Kieran to be with Scheredin, and he was fully on board with her plan. In fact, in Kieran’s eyes, she couldn’t possibly have done better. Kieran’s gift was his closest friend and a real, honest-to-Fate warlock to boot. 

If there was anything that fascinated Kieran more than the Council, it was magic, and Scheredin likely had plenty. While building the foundation of the most important relationship of his life with dishonesty wasn’t the smartest choice, Kieran would explain who he truly was and give Scheredin his real, non-elf name as soon as they were mated. It was perhaps not the best way to speed up the timeline, but Kieran could find no patience, and his beast was egging him on.

Instead of answering Brexton’s question with a complete falsehood, Kieran went with his gut. “I’d like to have a mating ceremony as soon as possible if you’re okay with that, Scheredin.”

“I will honor your customs, Keladriel. It’s not like we’re total strangers.”

It rankled both man and phoenix to have his other half call him by the wrong name, even though it was the one he went by in the game, but Kieran set the outrage aside and smiled again. “Thank you.”

About the Author 

Jessamyn Kingley lives in Nevada where she begs the men in her head to tell her their amazing stories which she dutifully writes it all down in what has become a small mountain of notebooks. She falls in love with each couple and swears whatever book she wrote last is her absolute favorite.

Jessamyn is married and working toward remembering to start the dishwasher without being distracted by the scent of the magical detergent. For personal enjoyment, she aids in cat rescue while slashing and gashing her way through mobs in various MMORPGs. Caffeine is her very best friend and is only cast aside briefly for the sin better known as BBQ potato chips.

Visit her website 

Join her Facebook group, Jessamyn's Ruffian's

Social Media Links

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The Runner by Thom Collins #giveaway

RELEASE BLITZ

Book Title: The Runner

Author: Thom Collins

Publisher: Pride Publishing

Cover Artist: Erin Dameron-Hill

Release Date: January 18, 2022

Genre:  Contemporary M/M Romance, Erotic romance, Sports

Tropes: Enemies to lovers, sporting heroes, 

Themes: Reconnecting, rivalries, forgiveness 

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 30 353 words/ 121 pages

It is a standalone story within a themed series and does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

 

Buy Links

Universal Link  |  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK 

Pride Publishing  |  Kobo  |   B&N 

 

An Olympic hero faces his longest run – to make up for the past.

Blurb

Alex Schaefer is a sports journalist and commentator at the top of his game. He hosts a successful weekly podcast has just written the biography of a world class football player. With his career on an upward trajectory, Alex has never been busier. There is no time in his life for love or romance.

Ethan Bower was used to success. As a British sprinter, he won a host of silver and gold medals at the Olympics, European and Commonwealth championships, and spent over a decade at the top. Persistent injuries brought Ethan’s career to an abrupt halt in his mid-thirties. Now he has to start over again. Trying to get his foot in the door of athletics commentary and presenting isn’t easy.

Ethan and Alex have history. Eight years ago, at the height of Ethan’s success, Alex was chosen to ghost write his autobiography. An experience they would both rather forget. Ethan hated what Alex wrote about him; a fact he’s made very public. When Ethan attends the launch of Alex’s latest book, they meet again for the first time in years and something becomes apparent to both of them – they have each improved with age. Now in their thirties, they are older and more mature.

Can they put the past behind them and their ambitions for the future to take a chance on each other now? 

 

Excerpt 

Alex held back a moment, observing. Ethan was taller than he remembered, and with the increased bulk across his shoulders, he had a very statuesque physique. His clothes looked well made, and he wore them well. Something stirred within Alex, an excitement that caused his whole body to tingle and concentrate in his groin. Ethan Bower roused him in a way he would never have thought possible.

Alex knew that attraction would die in seconds if Ethan was the same bullish prick he used to know.

Only one way to find out.

“Hello, Ethan,” he said, stepping up beside him. “It’s been a long time.”

As Ethan turned to look at him, there was uncertainty on his face just for a second before his mouth spread into a wide grin. There were short dimples which cut into his cheeks when he smiled—Alex had forgotten about those—and he had a day’s worth of stubble on his chin, which suited him a lot. Any more would give away his natural ginger colouring, which the careful highlights in his hair tried to disguise.

“Alex,” he said, shoving out his hand. “Congratulations. I had no idea you were involved in the book until I arrived.”

He pumped Alex’s hand harder than necessary. Over-compensating? Nervous? Ethan had never struck him as a man who suffered from social anxiety, but the way he grabbed his drink off the bar and knocked off a third of it in one go suggested that maybe he was.

Or he’s pissed off to see me and too polite to say so.

“You’re looking good. I was sorry to hear about all the injuries. I thought you’d be good for one more round of medals.”

Ethan shrugged. “They come to all of us. You can’t push your body so hard for all those years and not expect consequences. It would be nice to have added another Olympics to the tally, but it is what is. I can’t do anything about it now.”

Alex’s gaze was drawn to Ethan’s stunning green eyes. Shit. How could he have forgotten about those? They were mesmerizing. There had definitely been a change in his face since they’d seen each other last. There were deep lines around his eyes and the corners of his mouth and there could even be a touch of grey in the hair around his ears. Alex realised he had known Ethan when he was still a boy. The person who stood in front of him now was all man.

“It’s nice to run into you after all this time,” Alex said. “I had no idea who was coming tonight.”

Those green eyes looked deep into his. “Are you kidding? I won’t miss it. This is going to the biggest sports book of the year. Everyone is interested in Fernando’s story. Not just here, but worldwide. You’re onto a real winner with this one.”

Alex shrugged. “It’s his story, not mine. I just helped to put it on the page for him.”

“Did Fernando seek you out personally? I kind of think he must have. None of those straight dude football writers could tell it with the authenticity of another gay man.”

“He did. For that very reason, I think. He felt more comfortable talking to a gay writer. The publishers were torn. They wanted either a much bigger name or an anonymous ghost writer who would do what they were told and wouldn’t ask for credit.”

Ethan gave a soft laugh. “You mean like my book?”

“Those were different times.”

“I guess so. And we were different people. I know I was.”

Could this be true? Was Ethan admitting he’d been an arsehole in his younger days? “Everyone is different in their twenties. I don’t think we really grow up until we’re around thirty. Look at Fernando. He was twenty-nine when he finally came out, despite knowing he was gay all of his life.”

Ethan nodded and took another sip of his drink. “Everything turns out all right in the end, I suppose.”

 

About the Author 

 

Thom Collins is the author of Closer by Morning, North Point and the Anthem Trilogy. His love of page turning thrillers began at an early age when his mother caught him reading the latest Jackie Collins book and confiscated it, sparking a life-long love of raunchy novels.

Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age, but in 2013 he realized cruising is the best way to see the world.

Check out his website for news updates and a free ebook, The Night.

 

Other links

Twitter: @thomwolf  |  Instagram: thomcollinsauthor  |   Newsletter Sign-up   

 

Giveaway

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 The Success Series (3 ebooks) x 3

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Crush Box Set 1 by Elouise East #kindleunlimited #giveaway

BLOG TOUR

Book Title: Crush Box Set 1

Author: Elouise East

Cover Artist: Maria Vickers

Release Date: January 13, 2022

Genre:  Gay contemporary romance

Heat Rating: 3-4 flames

Length: approx 210 000 words for all 3 books 

Each one can be read separately, but characters pop into all books.

The stories do not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

 

Buy Links - Available in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon US  |  Amazon UK 

 

Crush is not just a bar… it’s a family.

   Blurb 

Box set 1 contains:

First Kiss follows Charlie and Josh as love crosses boundaries they never expected it to. When Charlie tries to find someone to take his virginity, he doesn’t realise he is knocking down the first domino in a long line of changes set to test their loyalty and put them on a path neither anticipated.

Instant Desire is what Sean feels when he first meets Asher. Unfortunately, it pushes Sean further away from the man instead of closer. Asher does everything he can to help Sean get past what haunts him, but even though he understands the grief, he can’t wallow in it himself. His niece needs him.

Primary Seduction follows Trent on his bisexual awakening. He never would’ve thought Max would be the one person he wanted. A match flickers to life inside him, and he can’t hold back, even when Max comes complete with a BDSM lifestyle Trent knows nothing about. Trouble comes calling, but his newfound relationship helps him in ways he never expected.

MM romances where love wins over everything. Everyone is welcome at Crush.

Excerpt from First Kiss

“Hello?” 

Josh rushed into the hallway and ploughed into Charlie. 

“Umph!” Charlie dropped his bag with a thump, then slid his arms around Josh’s waist, one reaching up to rub his back. “Hi, J,” he whispered.

Josh didn’t say anything. Charlie hadn’t realised exactly how much he had missed him until he’d come back through the door. The same for Josh if how tight he was holding him was anything to go by. Josh squeezed him tighter. A throat cleared but they ignored it. Josh burrowed his face into Charlie’s neck. “I love you,” he whispered so quietly, Charlie wasn’t sure if he’d heard right.

Charlie’s body started shaking. Josh pulled back a little to look at him, and Charlie realised he was crying. Josh cupped his cheeks, wiping the tears with his fingers. “Is that okay?”

Charlie nodded as more tears fell.

“Why have you made my boy cry?” Josh got pushed aside as their mum took his place, pulling Charlie into a hug. “Are you okay, sweetheart? What did he say to upset you?” His mum looked at Josh, eyes narrowed. “You better have a good explanation, young man.”

Josh straightened, looked her in the eye and said, “I told him I loved him.”

There was a beat of silence then his mum burst into tears, hugging them both tight, mumbling words he couldn’t understand. He was hoping they were happy tears too. But he wasn’t sure.

His mum pulled away after a minute and pulled them into the living room. She pushed them both down onto the sofa and she sat on the coffee table facing them. She looked at Josh. “You love him?”

Josh nodded. “With everything I am.” He wrapped his arm around Charlie’s shoulder.

His mum looked at Charlie. “What about you?”

Charlie nodded. “I love him.” Then he turned to Josh, “I love you.” A lone tear dripped down his cheek, which Josh wiped away.

His mum clasped her hands to her mouth and laughed. “I’m so happy for you both.” She looked at them tenderly for a moment, then her face became serious. “You’re going to have many problems, my beautiful boys. There will be people out there,” she pointed out the window, “who will try to bring you down with their hate. You must stay strong. Believe in each other.

 

About the Author 

I am Elouise East but feel free to call me Elli. I write sweet and steamy connections in gay romance. I also touch on taboo stories under the name Elouise R East.

Books that tell the stories where friendship and family are the focal point - be it blood family or chosen - is very important to me. That’s why I include a variety of personalities, talents, ages, situations and abilities as I believe a story needs, or a character needs. I want my characters to be real, to be relatable, to be free to have whatever views they tell me they have. And trust me, most of the time, I do not have any say in the matter!

My characters come to life on the page for me as well as my readers. Their stories unfold in front of me, and I have very little input into how they want to be shown. Just like real life, the lives of my characters change with every choice, every interaction and every conversation. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I write books that are emotionally realistic, even if liberties are taken with other aspects of my stories. I don’t know any other way to write. It comes from deep inside.

Who am I? A single parent to two children who make life worth living. An avid reader who still devours every book she can get her hands on. A student of learning about any subject that takes her fancy. An author of books she would read herself. And a romantic at heart who loves anything cheesy. 

Who’s in?

 

Author Links

Blog/Website  |   Facebook  |   Twitter  

Instagram   |  Newsletter Sign-up  

 

 

Giveaway

Enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway for a chance to win

one of two signed paperbacks of either First Kiss, Instant Desire, or Primary Seduction (winner’s choice).

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