At the end of July, Until the of Time will be released. This is a sequel to At Long Last. It continues the story of Preston and Scott.
Seven months into their relationship, Preston has yet to tell his parents he is gay and living with Scott. When they are invited to the wedding of Preston’s ex-wife, a wedding Preston’s parents will also attend, Scott hopes Preston will finally admit to their relationship. But Preston fears having the same strained relationship Scott has with his father or worse, being disowned.
While Scott is beginning to believe Preston will always be ashamed of their love and will never come around to admitting the truth, Preston wonders if Scott will bolt if he doesn’t stick to Scott’s timetable.
Preston has a tough choice. Trust his parents with the truth or risk losing Scott forever.
So my question here is, should I do a giveaway of Until the End of Time or not? If there is interest, I'll do one. But if not, well, then, I won't.
Edit: Since enough people want the giveaway, I will do it close to the release date. Sorry for not saying so earlier. Got distracted by other releases.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Lawyers in Love
Some time in July my first paperback release with Amber Quill comes out. It is an anthology of some of my stories that have been released there.
As you can see, it is called Lawyers in Love because they all have the theme of having lawyers who fall in love.
The stories included are: At Long Last, Most Likely to Succeed and Car Wash.
So if you are wanting to collect any of my works in print that will be your chance.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Just Some Updates
Two guys kissing, sigh. Something so sexy about that.
Things are going along fine with Beyond the Norm coming from Dreamspinner. Got my draft cover and I think the final product will be great. They took my request for Kyle to appear Goth on the cover to heart which really pleases me. The blurb for the book is also done. I cannot wait for the book to make its debut later this summer.
Sweet Reunion is coming along well, too. I'm past the first two chapters and about to cross the 5,000 word mark. I submitted the forms to Amber Quill for it, too. I still intend to be finished with it by next Sunday, July 5, 2oo9.
Once Sweet Reunion is done I will return to full time work on Ticket to Ride so I can get that obligation (due September 01) out of the way and I can move on to something else.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
New Work In Progress
Working on something new. I hope to have it done and off to Amber Quill by the end of the Independence Day Weekend here in the United States. If I can manage, shortly after I should have a release date. Will post further details as they become available.
New story is called, Sweet Reunion.
New story is called, Sweet Reunion.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What are you working on now?
I am working on Ticket to Ride. The story premise is that just as a has-been rock star is looking to make his come back his boyfriend announces he is leaving him. Then the boyfriend ends up being murdered. I have no idea of the length. It’s supposed to be finished by September.
2) Anything else?
I’m also working on Pieces. It’s a story of depression and moving on from grief and finding or re-finding new love. One hero’s boyfriend killed himself and he’s having trouble moving on from that and it’s going to take him falling in love all over again with his first love to get his happily-ever-after.
3) Sorcerer’s Lover 2 just released, do you have any more sequels in the works?
Sorcerer’s Lover will definitely have a third installment. In the third one, the war between Benedict’s brothers, James and Henry, will heat up and at least one of them will look to using Warin’s powers to become king. I am anticipating late 2009 or early 2010 for that one.
I am also intending to conclude Nick and Ray’s story from The Other Side 2 as well as get out Ray’s brother, Devon’s story at some point. Those are the only sequels planned at present.
4) You seem to write pretty fast. How do you do it?
I don’t know, really. It’s something I’ve always been able to do when forced but lately I have been slowing down a bit. Which is why I have only got Until the End of Time to release at the end of July for Amber Quill and Beyond the Norm to release in September for Dreamspinner Press. Nothing else is completed but as mentioned I am working on it.
5) Do you read reviews of your work?
Sometimes. I am learning the painful lesson some people just won’t like your work. I’ve gotten great reviews and bad reviews, but honestly I don’t see either kind affecting the sales for my books much. I know for myself, as a consumer, I don’t really pay attention to reviews on review sites when choosing books for myself.
I pay more attention to reader reaction than review sites and for the most part I have gotten very positive reader reaction to the majority of my stories. It’s always lovely getting an email from a reader or a comment on the blog from someone who loved my story. That always makes me very happy.
Any person who puts out their work whether it is writing or acting or painting is going to be subject to criticism. There are millions of people in the world and we don’t all like the same things.
6) Do you have a writing routine?
No. I don’t write for so many hours or force myself to work on any given day. I try to write every day but it just doesn’t work for me. I usually write at the day job at lunch during the work week. Sometimes at night when I come home and I am vegging in front of the television I can get a little more done. And on the weekends I might get 500 words done for the entire time. But if I am determined to write and finish something I will work a lot more and a lot faster. When I decided to do Until the End of Time I got 2,000 or more words done on that per day.
7) Do you plot or just write as it comes to you?
Well, every story is different. Right now as I am working on Ticket to Ride I am just writing it. Don’t know who the killer is or why or anything. I know the killer is not Chad or the cop-love interest, Jack. But for Beyond the Norm I pretty much knew where I wanted to go with that story when I started. Same with Trust. Those were both plotted in my head before I wrote them. I rarely ever sit down and write down a plot even when I do have the plot in mind. I store them in my brain.
8) When are you going to write the Regency lord and butler story?
I have visions of myself starting that in late summer or early fall. But it’s also entirely possible it will have to be pushed to early 2010.
9) Do you have any advice for aspiring writers of the m/m genre?
First, please read and enjoy the genre you are writing. Don’t just start writing it because you hear it is the hot thing. If you don’t enjoy the genre readers will know. I was reading m/m well before I ever penned the first one (Another Chance). The other thing is join writing groups, on line chapters are good if you can’t find a local one, RWA now has a Rainbow chapter, find a critique partner you mesh with, and finish the story. Endless re-writes of your beginning chapter will get you no where. In order to get published you have to submit. If you can’t find a critique partner, enter a few contests that will take the genre and get some feedback that way. Also, research publishers who publish what you write. Read their stories and get a feel for what they like.
10) Since your first published erotic romance, The Squire, came out a year ago is there anything you’ve done to promote your books that you think has worked?
Actually, I joined a reader’s site called, Goodreads. I was talked into it, really, by Ava March, but I am glad I did. I have been able to talk about different books we’ve all read or wanted to read in the genre and gotten some great recommendations I might never have known about without them. I’ve also met some really wonderful readers that I have become good friends with, Shellie for instance, and my favorite person in the universe, Shayne. I’m extremely grateful for their kindness and friendship. And I know both have convinced other readers to try my books and I can’t thank them enough for their support.
I am working on Ticket to Ride. The story premise is that just as a has-been rock star is looking to make his come back his boyfriend announces he is leaving him. Then the boyfriend ends up being murdered. I have no idea of the length. It’s supposed to be finished by September.
2) Anything else?
I’m also working on Pieces. It’s a story of depression and moving on from grief and finding or re-finding new love. One hero’s boyfriend killed himself and he’s having trouble moving on from that and it’s going to take him falling in love all over again with his first love to get his happily-ever-after.
3) Sorcerer’s Lover 2 just released, do you have any more sequels in the works?
Sorcerer’s Lover will definitely have a third installment. In the third one, the war between Benedict’s brothers, James and Henry, will heat up and at least one of them will look to using Warin’s powers to become king. I am anticipating late 2009 or early 2010 for that one.
I am also intending to conclude Nick and Ray’s story from The Other Side 2 as well as get out Ray’s brother, Devon’s story at some point. Those are the only sequels planned at present.
4) You seem to write pretty fast. How do you do it?
I don’t know, really. It’s something I’ve always been able to do when forced but lately I have been slowing down a bit. Which is why I have only got Until the End of Time to release at the end of July for Amber Quill and Beyond the Norm to release in September for Dreamspinner Press. Nothing else is completed but as mentioned I am working on it.
5) Do you read reviews of your work?
Sometimes. I am learning the painful lesson some people just won’t like your work. I’ve gotten great reviews and bad reviews, but honestly I don’t see either kind affecting the sales for my books much. I know for myself, as a consumer, I don’t really pay attention to reviews on review sites when choosing books for myself.
I pay more attention to reader reaction than review sites and for the most part I have gotten very positive reader reaction to the majority of my stories. It’s always lovely getting an email from a reader or a comment on the blog from someone who loved my story. That always makes me very happy.
Any person who puts out their work whether it is writing or acting or painting is going to be subject to criticism. There are millions of people in the world and we don’t all like the same things.
6) Do you have a writing routine?
No. I don’t write for so many hours or force myself to work on any given day. I try to write every day but it just doesn’t work for me. I usually write at the day job at lunch during the work week. Sometimes at night when I come home and I am vegging in front of the television I can get a little more done. And on the weekends I might get 500 words done for the entire time. But if I am determined to write and finish something I will work a lot more and a lot faster. When I decided to do Until the End of Time I got 2,000 or more words done on that per day.
7) Do you plot or just write as it comes to you?
Well, every story is different. Right now as I am working on Ticket to Ride I am just writing it. Don’t know who the killer is or why or anything. I know the killer is not Chad or the cop-love interest, Jack. But for Beyond the Norm I pretty much knew where I wanted to go with that story when I started. Same with Trust. Those were both plotted in my head before I wrote them. I rarely ever sit down and write down a plot even when I do have the plot in mind. I store them in my brain.
8) When are you going to write the Regency lord and butler story?
I have visions of myself starting that in late summer or early fall. But it’s also entirely possible it will have to be pushed to early 2010.
9) Do you have any advice for aspiring writers of the m/m genre?
First, please read and enjoy the genre you are writing. Don’t just start writing it because you hear it is the hot thing. If you don’t enjoy the genre readers will know. I was reading m/m well before I ever penned the first one (Another Chance). The other thing is join writing groups, on line chapters are good if you can’t find a local one, RWA now has a Rainbow chapter, find a critique partner you mesh with, and finish the story. Endless re-writes of your beginning chapter will get you no where. In order to get published you have to submit. If you can’t find a critique partner, enter a few contests that will take the genre and get some feedback that way. Also, research publishers who publish what you write. Read their stories and get a feel for what they like.
10) Since your first published erotic romance, The Squire, came out a year ago is there anything you’ve done to promote your books that you think has worked?
Actually, I joined a reader’s site called, Goodreads. I was talked into it, really, by Ava March, but I am glad I did. I have been able to talk about different books we’ve all read or wanted to read in the genre and gotten some great recommendations I might never have known about without them. I’ve also met some really wonderful readers that I have become good friends with, Shellie for instance, and my favorite person in the universe, Shayne. I’m extremely grateful for their kindness and friendship. And I know both have convinced other readers to try my books and I can’t thank them enough for their support.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Ticket to Ride Excerpt
So today I decided to post an excerpt from my current work in progress, Ticket to Ride. Probably to be released in December. I think.
“Holy shit, do you know who that is?”
Lieutenant Jack Reeves paused his pen in the middle of a notation about the crime scene and eyed Detective Albert Ramirez who stood beside him.
He followed Al’s gaze to the man sitting in the white plastic patio furniture chair. The man leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees and his head in his hands. He had short blond straight hair done in some fancy salon fashion. Jack still visited barbers himself. Jack estimated the blond to be in his mid to late thirties and though he admitted the guy was pretty he was also a total stranger.
“No, should I?”
Al shot him a look as though he were a complete idiot. He supposed he was to the much younger detective. Jack, who had turned forty-three on his last birthday, felt positively ancient compared to thirty-three year old Al. He started jotting down his notes again.
“Chad Storm,” Al said.
A soap opera name if ever he’d heard one. He shrugged. “Actor?”
Al groaned. “No, lieutenant. Chad Storm.”
Like saying it again would clue him in. He shrugged again.
“The lead singer of Lightning.”
“Oh.” Jack nodded and closed his spiral notebook. “Rock music, right?”
Al tsked. “Yes.”
“I’m not really into that sort of thing.”
“Fifteen years ago Lightning was the hottest group out there.”
“Hmm. What about now?”
“Well, they broke up a few years ago, actually,” Al admitted. He turned to watch the body of the victim being lifted out of the bloody swimming pool. Then he turned back to Jack. “Can I question him?”
“No way. You’re too much of a fan boy. I’ll talk to Mr. Storm. You go talk to the maid.”
Al grimaced. “All right.”
Jack patted Al’s shoulder and walked past him toward the rock star. He grabbed a nearby plastic chair and brought it over next to Storm. He sat down and cleared his throat.
Storm straightened and looked at him. He had killer blue eyes, Jack quickly noted. “Hello,” he said softly.
“Chad Storm?”
“Yes.”
“Lieutenant Reeves, homicide.” He opened his notebook again. “Is Chad Storm your real name?”
“Yes. Well, it is my legal name. I officially changed it when I formed Lightning.” Storm smiled a little crookedly. “You know, it went with the band name.”
“Uh-huh. What’s your real name then?”
Storm shifted uncomfortable and stared out at the reddish pool. “Do you really need that?”
Though it wasn’t a funny situation, Jack found himself smiling just a little. “It can’t be that bad.”
“It is.” He sighed. “Lester Chadwick.”
Jack blinked, wrote it down, and cleared his throat. “Okay, Mr. Storm, how did you know the victim?”
“We were…you know, a couple.” Storm looked away from the pool and bit his bottom lip. “Not anymore. I mean even be-before this.”
“I’m sorry for your loss.” Years ago when he’d began his career as a police officer he practiced those words. Practiced making them sound almost casual. A police officer wasn’t supposed to have any feelings. Or at least that’s what his first partner told him. He no longer needed to practice. The words just came out, though they still sounded hollow to Jack’s ears. “How long ago did you and Walters end your relationship?”
“I didn’t,” Storm said softly. “Mark did. He wanted his freedom, I guess.”
“To see other men?”
Storm only nodded.
“How long ago was this, Mr. Storm?”
He met Jack’s gaze and his baby blue eyes were filled with an almost unbearable sorrow. “Last week. I found a plane ticket in the desk drawer. It was a one-way ticket to Baltimore. I asked him about it and he said he was flying there to meet someone.”
Jack made notes. “And when was his ticket for?”
“Um, tonight actually. He was supposed to leave tonight.” He studied his folded hands a moment before looking up once more. “Do I need a lawyer?”
“Holy shit, do you know who that is?”
Lieutenant Jack Reeves paused his pen in the middle of a notation about the crime scene and eyed Detective Albert Ramirez who stood beside him.
He followed Al’s gaze to the man sitting in the white plastic patio furniture chair. The man leaned forward, his elbows resting on his knees and his head in his hands. He had short blond straight hair done in some fancy salon fashion. Jack still visited barbers himself. Jack estimated the blond to be in his mid to late thirties and though he admitted the guy was pretty he was also a total stranger.
“No, should I?”
Al shot him a look as though he were a complete idiot. He supposed he was to the much younger detective. Jack, who had turned forty-three on his last birthday, felt positively ancient compared to thirty-three year old Al. He started jotting down his notes again.
“Chad Storm,” Al said.
A soap opera name if ever he’d heard one. He shrugged. “Actor?”
Al groaned. “No, lieutenant. Chad Storm.”
Like saying it again would clue him in. He shrugged again.
“The lead singer of Lightning.”
“Oh.” Jack nodded and closed his spiral notebook. “Rock music, right?”
Al tsked. “Yes.”
“I’m not really into that sort of thing.”
“Fifteen years ago Lightning was the hottest group out there.”
“Hmm. What about now?”
“Well, they broke up a few years ago, actually,” Al admitted. He turned to watch the body of the victim being lifted out of the bloody swimming pool. Then he turned back to Jack. “Can I question him?”
“No way. You’re too much of a fan boy. I’ll talk to Mr. Storm. You go talk to the maid.”
Al grimaced. “All right.”
Jack patted Al’s shoulder and walked past him toward the rock star. He grabbed a nearby plastic chair and brought it over next to Storm. He sat down and cleared his throat.
Storm straightened and looked at him. He had killer blue eyes, Jack quickly noted. “Hello,” he said softly.
“Chad Storm?”
“Yes.”
“Lieutenant Reeves, homicide.” He opened his notebook again. “Is Chad Storm your real name?”
“Yes. Well, it is my legal name. I officially changed it when I formed Lightning.” Storm smiled a little crookedly. “You know, it went with the band name.”
“Uh-huh. What’s your real name then?”
Storm shifted uncomfortable and stared out at the reddish pool. “Do you really need that?”
Though it wasn’t a funny situation, Jack found himself smiling just a little. “It can’t be that bad.”
“It is.” He sighed. “Lester Chadwick.”
Jack blinked, wrote it down, and cleared his throat. “Okay, Mr. Storm, how did you know the victim?”
“We were…you know, a couple.” Storm looked away from the pool and bit his bottom lip. “Not anymore. I mean even be-before this.”
“I’m sorry for your loss.” Years ago when he’d began his career as a police officer he practiced those words. Practiced making them sound almost casual. A police officer wasn’t supposed to have any feelings. Or at least that’s what his first partner told him. He no longer needed to practice. The words just came out, though they still sounded hollow to Jack’s ears. “How long ago did you and Walters end your relationship?”
“I didn’t,” Storm said softly. “Mark did. He wanted his freedom, I guess.”
“To see other men?”
Storm only nodded.
“How long ago was this, Mr. Storm?”
He met Jack’s gaze and his baby blue eyes were filled with an almost unbearable sorrow. “Last week. I found a plane ticket in the desk drawer. It was a one-way ticket to Baltimore. I asked him about it and he said he was flying there to meet someone.”
Jack made notes. “And when was his ticket for?”
“Um, tonight actually. He was supposed to leave tonight.” He studied his folded hands a moment before looking up once more. “Do I need a lawyer?”
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Sorcerer's Lover II is released
Sorcerer's Lover 2 is out.
This is it folks until the end of July.
There will be one more book in the series, late 2009 or maybe 2010
Friday, June 19, 2009
Already Winners
Okay, the winners of the Sorcerer's Lover 2 contest are: Stacey, J, Shayne, and Shellie. Since these are the four people who entered you are all winners.
Please email authorshawnlane@gmail.com with your email address if I don't already have it and whether you need both Sorcerer's Lover and Sorcerer's Lover 2 or just Sorcerer's Lover 2. This weekend I will email you your copy.
Now, there is still time before Saturday night at Nine p.m. Pacific Daylight Time, to enter and guarantee yourself a free copy. But once that time comes and go, the contest is officially over. I don't know if I will be doing any more contests anytime soon.
Have a good weekend everyone
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Ava's Favorite Gay Romances
(by Ava March, official moocher of Shawn's blog)
Hi all! Shawn gave me the nudge to post my own list of favorite gay romances, so here it is, in random order.
Seeking Redemption: Aiden and Ethan by Cameron Dane – Dane really knows how to write ubber angst, and since I’m an angst junkie, I just lap it up. This book also has the added plus of featuring two best friend heroes who were on the cusp of becoming lovers on the day they graduated from high school, only to be torn apart. The love that Ethan feels for Aiden in the prologue feels so real – that young love, that ‘yes, I will go away with you and only be with you’ love. So wonderfully pure and untainted, and a stark contrast to the man Ethan has become in chapter one.
Diving in Deep by K.A. Mitchell – I’ve read this one countless times. Like Stacey, this is a go-to book for me. The book doesn’t have big external elements – there are no killers and no family drama. It’s Cam and Noah’s story. The sex scenes burn up the page, and Noah’s internal angst really tugs at my heart.
Pyromancer by Amanda Young – The first Amanda Young book that I read, and the one that turned me into a fan girl. There is just something about Christian & Tanner that really appeals to me. Perhaps it’s that Tanner has steel in his spine, despite the fact he’s so young and turning tricks to pay the bills. Or perhaps it’s that Christian is so achingly lonely.
Faith and Fidelity by Tere Michaels – The prologue is heartbreaking and sets the tone for the book. This one is light on the actual sexual elements but high on sexual tension and angst as Evan and Matt, two men who had never thought of themselves as gay, go from friendship to love, leaning on each other and helping each other out through the hard times.
The Squire and At Long Last by Shawn Lane – I had a hard time narrowing this down to two favorite Shawn books. I love her first m/m book – Another Chance – and not just because it’s a Regency. But The Squire and At Long Last have a tiny bit of an edge. Shawn has a knack for crafting characters that just suck me into a book. Duncan is so innocent and curious, and the fact he’s not a very good squire makes him even more lovable. As for At Long Last, Shawn made me totally believe Preston’s struggles with his sexuality – it felt so very real.
My Fair Captain and The Englor Affair – No list of favorites would be complete without at least one J.L.Langley book. I can’t possibly choose between the two, so I included both. Though, like Shawn, MFC probably gets the edge because I absolutely adored Aiden. I also love J.L. Langley’s novella, With Love. Just re-read that one the other day. Lainey….he’s so darn adorable!!
That’s my list, and I just realized that while I myself write only historicals, that there is only one historical on my list of favorite m/m books, and it's not a Regency. Interesting. I do read historicals, and there are a handful that were very close to making the list. But when Shawn asked me about posting my own list of favorites, these were the books that first popped into my head. These are the ones I re-read, the ones that stick with me long after ‘the end’. And the ones that suck me back into the book when I start thinking about them again. …yeah, I was supposed to post earlier today, but I kept opening up books, and re-reading, instead of typing up my post. :D
Feel free to share your own list of favorite gay romances!
Thanks!
Ava
http://www.avamarch.com/
Hi all! Shawn gave me the nudge to post my own list of favorite gay romances, so here it is, in random order.
Seeking Redemption: Aiden and Ethan by Cameron Dane – Dane really knows how to write ubber angst, and since I’m an angst junkie, I just lap it up. This book also has the added plus of featuring two best friend heroes who were on the cusp of becoming lovers on the day they graduated from high school, only to be torn apart. The love that Ethan feels for Aiden in the prologue feels so real – that young love, that ‘yes, I will go away with you and only be with you’ love. So wonderfully pure and untainted, and a stark contrast to the man Ethan has become in chapter one.
Diving in Deep by K.A. Mitchell – I’ve read this one countless times. Like Stacey, this is a go-to book for me. The book doesn’t have big external elements – there are no killers and no family drama. It’s Cam and Noah’s story. The sex scenes burn up the page, and Noah’s internal angst really tugs at my heart.
Pyromancer by Amanda Young – The first Amanda Young book that I read, and the one that turned me into a fan girl. There is just something about Christian & Tanner that really appeals to me. Perhaps it’s that Tanner has steel in his spine, despite the fact he’s so young and turning tricks to pay the bills. Or perhaps it’s that Christian is so achingly lonely.
Faith and Fidelity by Tere Michaels – The prologue is heartbreaking and sets the tone for the book. This one is light on the actual sexual elements but high on sexual tension and angst as Evan and Matt, two men who had never thought of themselves as gay, go from friendship to love, leaning on each other and helping each other out through the hard times.
The Squire and At Long Last by Shawn Lane – I had a hard time narrowing this down to two favorite Shawn books. I love her first m/m book – Another Chance – and not just because it’s a Regency. But The Squire and At Long Last have a tiny bit of an edge. Shawn has a knack for crafting characters that just suck me into a book. Duncan is so innocent and curious, and the fact he’s not a very good squire makes him even more lovable. As for At Long Last, Shawn made me totally believe Preston’s struggles with his sexuality – it felt so very real.
My Fair Captain and The Englor Affair – No list of favorites would be complete without at least one J.L.Langley book. I can’t possibly choose between the two, so I included both. Though, like Shawn, MFC probably gets the edge because I absolutely adored Aiden. I also love J.L. Langley’s novella, With Love. Just re-read that one the other day. Lainey….he’s so darn adorable!!
That’s my list, and I just realized that while I myself write only historicals, that there is only one historical on my list of favorite m/m books, and it's not a Regency. Interesting. I do read historicals, and there are a handful that were very close to making the list. But when Shawn asked me about posting my own list of favorites, these were the books that first popped into my head. These are the ones I re-read, the ones that stick with me long after ‘the end’. And the ones that suck me back into the book when I start thinking about them again. …yeah, I was supposed to post earlier today, but I kept opening up books, and re-reading, instead of typing up my post. :D
Feel free to share your own list of favorite gay romances!
Thanks!
Ava
http://www.avamarch.com/
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Shawn's Favorite Gay Romances
I decided to do a post on what my favorite gay romances are. What I think are among the best in the genre. I was going to rank them and decided in the end I couldn’t. So what follows are my favorites in random order.
Without Reservations by J.L. Langley – this book began my obsession with J.L Langley’s work. It is the first book I read by her and still is my favorite of her books. There is something about Keaton and Chay’s relationship that feels real to me. I love this book and I have read it more times than I can count. It’s still my “go to” book when I can’t find something else I want to read.
What Hides Inside by Ally Blue – this is the second book in the Bay City Paranormal series and it is still my favorite in the series. The setting of an old high school with disappearing kids and the weird creatures Sam has some connection to is fascinating and riveting, but for me even more enticing is the growing relationship dynamic between Sam and Bo.
The Dark Horse & The White Knight by Josh Lanyon – these books go together and I cannot separate them in my mind any more. They are my favorite pieces by Josh Lanyon. I could read book after book about Sean and Dan. They are among my favorite heroes.
Amor En Retragado by AM Riley – Maybe it is the LA native in me but I love this book. It’s sad and poignant and touching and wonderful all wrapped into one package. It’s among my favorites ever even though I wanted to strangle both JD and Robert a few times.
The Elegant Corpse by AM Riley – I’m not a huge fan of BDSM but I adored the characters and the storyline of this book so much I couldn’t resist it. Maybe it is because I am a nail biter like Sean. Who knows but just as Roger couldn’t help falling in love with Sean, I did too.
My Fair Captain & The Englor Affair by J.L. Langley – Yes, I put them together because I really cannot decide which one I like better. Probably MFC because I adored Aiden, but it’s pretty close.
Under My Skin & Under My Skin 2 by M.L. Rhodes – If you haven’t read these books do yourself a favor and do it. Sebastian and Dylan are too extremely compelling heroes and they contain some of the hottest sex.
Out of My Mind by M.L. Rhodes – If you like Best Friends turn lovers stories, you will love this one. I do.
Bound by Deception & Bound to Him by Ava March – If you want historical mixed with your men you can’t go wrong with an Ava book. And Oliver is one of the most endearing characters you’ll ever read about.
So that’s my list. I have many more books I adore, of course, but these are the ones I can’t get enough of.
What are some of your favorite gay romances?
* Sometime tomorrow Ava March will post her list.
Without Reservations by J.L. Langley – this book began my obsession with J.L Langley’s work. It is the first book I read by her and still is my favorite of her books. There is something about Keaton and Chay’s relationship that feels real to me. I love this book and I have read it more times than I can count. It’s still my “go to” book when I can’t find something else I want to read.
What Hides Inside by Ally Blue – this is the second book in the Bay City Paranormal series and it is still my favorite in the series. The setting of an old high school with disappearing kids and the weird creatures Sam has some connection to is fascinating and riveting, but for me even more enticing is the growing relationship dynamic between Sam and Bo.
The Dark Horse & The White Knight by Josh Lanyon – these books go together and I cannot separate them in my mind any more. They are my favorite pieces by Josh Lanyon. I could read book after book about Sean and Dan. They are among my favorite heroes.
Amor En Retragado by AM Riley – Maybe it is the LA native in me but I love this book. It’s sad and poignant and touching and wonderful all wrapped into one package. It’s among my favorites ever even though I wanted to strangle both JD and Robert a few times.
The Elegant Corpse by AM Riley – I’m not a huge fan of BDSM but I adored the characters and the storyline of this book so much I couldn’t resist it. Maybe it is because I am a nail biter like Sean. Who knows but just as Roger couldn’t help falling in love with Sean, I did too.
My Fair Captain & The Englor Affair by J.L. Langley – Yes, I put them together because I really cannot decide which one I like better. Probably MFC because I adored Aiden, but it’s pretty close.
Under My Skin & Under My Skin 2 by M.L. Rhodes – If you haven’t read these books do yourself a favor and do it. Sebastian and Dylan are too extremely compelling heroes and they contain some of the hottest sex.
Out of My Mind by M.L. Rhodes – If you like Best Friends turn lovers stories, you will love this one. I do.
Bound by Deception & Bound to Him by Ava March – If you want historical mixed with your men you can’t go wrong with an Ava book. And Oliver is one of the most endearing characters you’ll ever read about.
So that’s my list. I have many more books I adore, of course, but these are the ones I can’t get enough of.
What are some of your favorite gay romances?
* Sometime tomorrow Ava March will post her list.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
New Release Date for Sorcerer's Lover 2 and a new Contest
Sorcerer's Lover 2's release date has been moved again. This is the second time it has been moved for those keeping track. The new release date is now next weekend, June 20/21.
So this means a new contest. I am doing something a little different in that this time. I am giving away a package of Sorcerer's Lover and Sorcerer's Lover 2 together. This is good news for those of you who haven't read the first one. You can now read them together. Now don't worry if you HAVE read the first one, and you win, just let me know and I won't need to send the first one to you but you can still win the second one. Eventually there will be a third and final installment but that won't be until probably late 2009 or early 2010.
Blurb:
The sequel to Amber Allure’s Best Seller Sorcerer's Lover...
The sorcerer, Warin, and his lover, the illegitimate prince, Benedict, were torn apart just as they were on the verge of escaping to their new life together. Imprisoned for his own good by his half-brother and heir-to-the-throne, Henry, Benedict dreams of being rescued and reunited with his sorcerer.
The lovers subsist on a handful of stolen encounters even as Warin plans to free Benedict from his prison. As the king lies near death, a rebellion against Henry is secretly plotted when he is most vulnerable.
But when the chance to escape during an attack on the castle presents itself, Benedict and Warin stay behind to fight for Henry. Will they be forced to sacrifice their chance for love and happiness for honor?
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Stop the Madness
As if I needed more stories to write the idea for my former long-haired rocker is already wedging its way into my brain. I already have a name for my blond god, Chad. And I aready imagine pairing him with someone completely opposite of him. Someone who doesn't listen to rock at all, never did, and doesn't know who the hell Chad is/was.
Honestly, damn those guys for being at the airport the same time as me! LOL
Honestly, damn those guys for being at the airport the same time as me! LOL
There, is a modern picture without the hair.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
People Watching, Story Ideas, and Ramblings
Speaking of long hair (Shayne's obsession), Monday night I was flying home from Las Vegas doing my usual people watching in the airport. I like to create characters from people I see. I am still going to create a couple out of that uber hot gay couple I saw at the opera earlier this year, but I digress.I'm sitting next to my friends and one of them leans over and says, "Isn't that a Nelson twin over there sitting on the floor on the next aisle?"
Of course you have to know who the Nelson twins are. They are the blond twin sons of the late Ricky Nelson and they had several hits a million years ago when they had really long hair. They were always quite goodlooking and their names are Gunnar and Matthew. Anyway, I managed to look in the direction she indicated and sure enough the one sitting on the floor strumming his guitar was Gunnar Nelson with now short blond hair and being in his forties (as am I). He was gorgeous, actually, with his very blue eyes. Anyway as it turns out he was talking with his twin, Matthew who sat in the chair above him.
So now, I am thinking of writing a story with a former long-haired, blond rock star who is now in his forties. I think when I write this story he will most definitely have to resemble Gunnar.
I couldn't help but wonder as the Nelsons got on the Southwest flight with the rest of us if they think about the father they never even got to know dying in a plane crash every time they get on a plane themselves. I know I thought about it when I saw them.
Anyway, now that I am back at home I am continuing to write my angsty story, Pieces. The next release is Sorcerer's Lover 2 and I really believe you need to have read Sorcerer's Lover to get into the second book. Sorcerer's Lover 2 will come out June 27/28 and I might have a giveaway of both Sorcerer's Lover and Sorcerer's Lover 2 as a package for those who have not read the first one.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Beyond the Norm finds a home
I have been offered a contract for Beyond the Norm by Dreamspinner Press. If all goes as planned it should be released early autumn.
So, I can't wait to see what the cover will be like and will post it when I get it which I am guessing won't be for a while.
So, I can't wait to see what the cover will be like and will post it when I get it which I am guessing won't be for a while.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Car Wash winner is...
Stacy.
Congratulation Stace! I will send you your book.
And thanks for others who tried to win. I really appreciate it.
Congratulation Stace! I will send you your book.
And thanks for others who tried to win. I really appreciate it.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
A Matter of Sequels
So how do people feel about true sequels in books?
Now what I mean is not related books. For instance, Car Wash is related to Pulling Away in that a secondary character, Kevin, from Pulling Away is the hero in Car Wash. This is not a true sequel because you do not need to read either book to get the other one (I'd love it of course if you did). I know most readers like this and even expect it at times when you've introduced secondary characters.
But what about sequels featuring the same characters in multiple books about them? I have two of those coming out shortly, Sorcerer's Lover 2 and Until the End of Time. I think to fully appreciate those books you should read Sorcerer's Lover and At Long Last. I think the same with Ava March's book, Bound to Him. In order to fully appreciate it you need to read Bound by Deception first.
For my novella, The Other Side, I have plans to write a second story involving Nick and Ray, as well as a related story involving Ray's brother, Devon. But where should you draw the line?
Well, I don't know. I often get asked on certain stories if I am going to write sequels. Honestly if I spent all my time on writing sequels I'd never get any new stories out.
So let me say now I don't plan on re-visiting the characters in the following stories, some of which I have been asked about:
Ellora's Cave Stories:
Another Chance - For the time period Aubrey and Daniel come from, there isn't going to be a true happily ever after in the sense that Aubrey and Daniel cannot set up a home together. A sad, but all too true fact. Therefore, I made their story end with the promise between them that they would be exclusive lovers and they would make the effort to see each other when they could. I don't see any benefit to addressing this again.
Stone of Wrath - For Jed and Topaz, they got their happily ever after even after many, many years apart thanks to the gods. They definitely lived HEA
Perfect Man - Honestly I adore Craig and Alex (especially Craig) and I would love to re-visit them. Craig is probably one of my all-time favorite heroes I have created and I think he is complex enough I could get a lot of mileage on him. However, the problem is my contractual obligation with EC would likely require I go to them first with any story written about them and with their current aversion to male/male romance I doubt it would fly there. I can't see a different publisher wanting to take on a story arc from another publisher, so I think it just won't happen.
Trust - Same story. Only more so. For those of you with a particular fondness for my cheater, Brad, well, I'm afraid I am definitely obligated contractually to EC where Brad is concerned. So, unfortunately you will have to decide for yourselves if Brad and Justin can truly make it work.
Wanting Sam - Believe it or not someone wanted a sequel for Krystal and Sam. I don't think I have anything to add to their story, really.
Amber Quill Stories:
It's Only Make-Believe - I like Sebastian and Melody but I am not writing heterosexual stories at this time and honestly if I were I'd more likely create a new story.
A Knight For All - unless Lady Katherine has been murdered in a horrific battle and attack on Edward's Castle, the answer is still no. I appreciate those that love to write and read menages. I think there are better authors out there for that kind of book than me.
Pulling Away - With the little look into Noah's and Charlie's life in Car Wash I don't think there is a need to write a whole other story with them in it. Unless someone want's to bribe me with Reese's Pieces.
Jake's Regret - I regret to say, no. God, no, lol.
Most Likely to Succeed - Clark and Thomas were quite happy at the end. No need for a continuation, I think.
Which brings me to The Squire. I get the question of a sequel to these guys all the time. I just don't know. I've thought about it, that's all I can commit to. They share the same issue as Aubrey and Daniel in Another Chance, but due to the isolated castle William owns there is more of a possibility of a sequel of some sort. William and Duncan aren't part of London Society in the same way as Aubrey and Daniel. So it is always possible. Or do readers think that ship has sailed?
Now what I mean is not related books. For instance, Car Wash is related to Pulling Away in that a secondary character, Kevin, from Pulling Away is the hero in Car Wash. This is not a true sequel because you do not need to read either book to get the other one (I'd love it of course if you did). I know most readers like this and even expect it at times when you've introduced secondary characters.
But what about sequels featuring the same characters in multiple books about them? I have two of those coming out shortly, Sorcerer's Lover 2 and Until the End of Time. I think to fully appreciate those books you should read Sorcerer's Lover and At Long Last. I think the same with Ava March's book, Bound to Him. In order to fully appreciate it you need to read Bound by Deception first.
For my novella, The Other Side, I have plans to write a second story involving Nick and Ray, as well as a related story involving Ray's brother, Devon. But where should you draw the line?
Well, I don't know. I often get asked on certain stories if I am going to write sequels. Honestly if I spent all my time on writing sequels I'd never get any new stories out.
So let me say now I don't plan on re-visiting the characters in the following stories, some of which I have been asked about:
Ellora's Cave Stories:
Another Chance - For the time period Aubrey and Daniel come from, there isn't going to be a true happily ever after in the sense that Aubrey and Daniel cannot set up a home together. A sad, but all too true fact. Therefore, I made their story end with the promise between them that they would be exclusive lovers and they would make the effort to see each other when they could. I don't see any benefit to addressing this again.
Stone of Wrath - For Jed and Topaz, they got their happily ever after even after many, many years apart thanks to the gods. They definitely lived HEA
Perfect Man - Honestly I adore Craig and Alex (especially Craig) and I would love to re-visit them. Craig is probably one of my all-time favorite heroes I have created and I think he is complex enough I could get a lot of mileage on him. However, the problem is my contractual obligation with EC would likely require I go to them first with any story written about them and with their current aversion to male/male romance I doubt it would fly there. I can't see a different publisher wanting to take on a story arc from another publisher, so I think it just won't happen.
Trust - Same story. Only more so. For those of you with a particular fondness for my cheater, Brad, well, I'm afraid I am definitely obligated contractually to EC where Brad is concerned. So, unfortunately you will have to decide for yourselves if Brad and Justin can truly make it work.
Wanting Sam - Believe it or not someone wanted a sequel for Krystal and Sam. I don't think I have anything to add to their story, really.
Amber Quill Stories:
It's Only Make-Believe - I like Sebastian and Melody but I am not writing heterosexual stories at this time and honestly if I were I'd more likely create a new story.
A Knight For All - unless Lady Katherine has been murdered in a horrific battle and attack on Edward's Castle, the answer is still no. I appreciate those that love to write and read menages. I think there are better authors out there for that kind of book than me.
Pulling Away - With the little look into Noah's and Charlie's life in Car Wash I don't think there is a need to write a whole other story with them in it. Unless someone want's to bribe me with Reese's Pieces.
Jake's Regret - I regret to say, no. God, no, lol.
Most Likely to Succeed - Clark and Thomas were quite happy at the end. No need for a continuation, I think.
Which brings me to The Squire. I get the question of a sequel to these guys all the time. I just don't know. I've thought about it, that's all I can commit to. They share the same issue as Aubrey and Daniel in Another Chance, but due to the isolated castle William owns there is more of a possibility of a sequel of some sort. William and Duncan aren't part of London Society in the same way as Aubrey and Daniel. So it is always possible. Or do readers think that ship has sailed?
Monday, June 1, 2009
Car Wash Contest Continues
There is still time to enter to win a free download of my upcoming June 07, 2009 release Car Wash. You do not need to have read Pulling Away to read Car Wash. It is a standalone story. Just leave a comment that you would like to be entered. The contest ends Friday, June 01, 2009 and the winner will be determined June 09, 2009 (due to my being out of town during the releast time).
Blurb
Kevin Flaherty’s life really sucks. He’s already been laid off from his job, compelled to sell his motorcycle, and now faces eviction from his apartment. Things can hardly get worse. Now, forced to work a low-paying job at a car wash and barely surviving, Kevin is too embarrassed to even tell his friends.
Hotshot lawyer, Michael Bennett, comes into the car wash to have his Maserati cleaned. Kevin knows Michael well. When Kevin was fifteen, an openly gay twenty-one-year-old Michael was Kevin’s dream. But when the teenaged Kevin made his move, Michael rejected the young man.
Nine years have passed and Michael is surprised how attracted he is to Kevin. He soon takes him out, then takes him home. This time the beautiful man is not too young. When he learns of Kevin’s situation, a smitten Michael makes it his job to clean up the disaster that Kevin’s life has become. But his take-charge, bossy way irritates a sensitive Kevin, who starts a fight, ending in the breakup of their budding relationship. A breakup neither of them really wanted.
Can they repair their fractured relationship or will their differences and hurt feelings keep them apart for good?
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