Unlock the Heat: Preview Chapter from “Ignited”

Enjoy a spicy sneak peak into Finn and Alex’s love story! To set the stage, Finn is on a “Bearacruz” in the middle of the Gulf Of Mexico. He’s met a stunning man who is going by an assumed name, Knox. (Yeah, a little mystery!) The following is chapter four, and it’s told from Finn’s POV.

“I want more than a kiss,” Knox murmured. “You are the sexiest man on this ship.”

I stepped into his arms, and a moment later, his lips crashed into mine.

Our kiss deepened while Knox’s hands roamed over my body, sending shivers down my spine. The surrounding ship seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of us lost in the heat of the moment. His touch was electric, igniting a fire within me that threatened to consume everything in its path. I felt his arms tighten around me, and for a split second, I wondered if this was all just a dream. But when his hand slipped into my pants and he gripped my ass, I knew it was real.

Knox broke the kiss, and I gasped for air. My cock was painfully hard, and I pressed it against his, and felt his thick shaft through his slacks.

“I’ve never done this before,” Knox breathed. “I mean, normally I prefer to get to know a guy better first. But I feel like this is right.”

“We’ve only got a few days together here on the ship.” I locked my gaze with his, and at that very moment, the light of the moon hit his face in just the right way. It was as if he’d transformed into a smoldering silent film star, with his hair slicked back and gleaming, and every angle of his face sharpened. “Let’s make the most of it, Knox. Because I want as much of you as I can get before it all ends.”

As Knox’s lips crashed into mine once again, I moaned, loving the rough feel of his beard against my skin. It was a sensation I couldn’t get enough of, and I never wanted this night to end.

But suddenly, a loud wolf whistle pierced through the air, causing me to jump and step away from Knox. Heat surged up my cheeks as I caught sight of a group of burly men leering at us from across the deck.

“Christ! This is way better than porn,” one remarked crudely while gripping his crotch.

The man next to him chimed in with a lascivious grin.”Bet the bearded hunk’s gotta huge cock.”

Knox sensed my discomfort and placed a reassuring hand on my shoulder before casting those dudes an icy stare. “Let’s find some privacy…my cabin?” His voice was low and seductive, making promises that his eyes echoed with equal fervor.

“Yes, please,” I murmured, then took his hand. “You know, normally I’d think it was kind of hot doing it in front of a bunch of strangers, but…”

“I’m selfish,” Knox interrupted, then as he led me away, he mumbled, “I don’t like to share.”

When we got to the elevators, I reached for the down button, but Knox hit the up button first.

“My suite is on the upper deck,” He murmured, and I realized he was still holding my hand. When the elevator doors opened, a group of drunk guys in skimpy swimsuits tumbled out, their intoxicated laughter echoing around us. We stepped inside, and as soon as the doors shut, the heat between us ignited. He pressed me against the cold steel wall, trapping me within the cage of his muscular arms.

Knox leaned down, his hot breath fanning across my face as he paused for a moment that lingered with delicious tension. His intense blue eyes locked onto mine, heavy with desire.

“God, I’ve never wanted anyone like this before,” he whispered, then he claimed my lips in a searing kiss that left no room for resistance. His mouth moved against mine with determined accuracy, each stroke of his tongue sending waves of desire pooling in my lower belly. There was nothing gentle in this kiss – it was raw and passionate, filled with pent-up lust and a simmering need that matched my own.

I heard a bell, then the doors opened and a drunk guy staggered onto the elevator. Knox and I stepped away from each other, and the drunk guy asked, “Did I interrupt something?”

Neither of us replied, and the man pushed three different floor buttons and leaned against the metal wall. “Which deck is the mixer on?”

Knox pushed the button for the main deck and glared at the guy. “Main deck, but are you sure you need anymore to drink?”

Drunk dude’s smile flatlined. “Sorry, but I…”

Knox held his hand up, and a moment later, the doors opened. He took my hand, and we got off, then he led me down a hallway. There were only four doors, which I thought was weird since the deck my cabin was on had many more than that. Upon reaching his door, he opened it, and upon entering, I was taken aback by the spaciousness of the room. Damn, this dude must’ve won the lottery or something, because you could fit at least ten of my cabin in just the living area.

“Wow, your suite is enormous,” I slowly turned around, taking it all in.

Knox chuckled, his deep voice vibrating through my body. “No one’s complimented me on the size of my suite before.”

My cheeks flushed as I realized how that could be interpreted. “Oh God, no, I meant the suite is big, not…”

He cut me off with another laugh. “Relax, Finn. I was just messing with you.”

I exhaled in relief and took a better look around the room. The living area had elegant decorations, including a plush white couch and chairs, a polished wood coffee table, and a large flat-screen TV mounted on the wall. The windows were floor-to-ceiling, offering a breathtaking view of the ocean.

“You have your own balcony, too?” I asked in awe.

“Yep,” Knox replied with a smirk. “Just wait till you see the rest of the place.”

He led me through a door to what appeared to be his bedroom. It was just as luxurious as the living area, with a king-sized bed draped in silky white sheets and fluffy pillows. A chandelier hung from the ceiling above it, giving off soft light.

“My goodness,” I breathed out.

Knox chuckled and stepped closer to me. “You can say that again.”

I rolled my eyes playfully and turned to explore the room further. There was another door that led to an en-suite bathroom, which was just as extravagant as everything else. Marble tiled floors, golden fixtures, and a massive bathtub caught my attention immediately.

“This is insane,” I said as I walked over to run my hand along the edge of the tub.

Knox wrapped his arms around my waist and nuzzled my neck. I leaned back into him and sighed. This whole situation still felt unreal to me—being on this cruise with someone like Knox, who seemed so out of my league.

“Let’s get naked and wet,” Knox whispered in my ear, and he reached around me and squeezed my erection through my pants. Then he backed away, so I turned around and saw him turn on the faucets in the bathtub. “Do you like champagne?” Knox cocked an eyebrow, waiting for my response. “I ordered some before I left to meet you. It should be ice cold by now.”

Jesus, champagne? Had I died and gone to a gay billionaire heaven?

“Normally I’m a beer kind of guy, but yeah, a little bubbly would be great.”

Knox put his hand under the running water, adjusted the temperature, then got to his feet. “Get in. I’ll be back in a minute.”

As I undressed and slipped into the warm water, my mind raced. Knox was so out of my league it was unreal, and I couldn’t believe how lucky I was. My heart pounded with desire as I squeezed my hard cock, thinking about what we were about to do, and all the nasty ways we could do it.

But I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by Knox’s extravagant lifestyle. The thought crossed my mind that maybe I didn’t belong here, that I wasn’t good enough for him. But I pushed those thoughts aside as Knox walked into the bathroom completely nude, carrying an ornate champagne bucket and two glasses.

I couldn’t take my eyes off of him as he poured us each a glass of champagne and got into the tub with me. His muscular body glistened under the soft light and his dark hair was no longer slicked back. Now it was perfectly mussy, and I realized his hair had a natural wave to it. He handed me a glass and raised his own in a toast.

“To being naked and wet,” he said with a devilish grin.

I clinked my glass against his.. Jesus, this entire experience felt like something out of a dream -too perfect to be real.

Knox leaned in closer to me, his chest almost touching mine as he took a sip of champagne. The bubbles tickled my nose as they went down, and I couldn’t resist reaching out to touch Knox’s smooth skin.

“You’re stunning,” I blurted out before even realizing what I was saying.

Knox bit his lower lip and set his glass down on the edge of the tub before taking mine from me as well. “As are you,” he whispered, leaning in for a kiss.

Knox’s lips were soft yet forceful against mine, and desire coursed through my body. My hands roamed all over his hard chest, feeling the definition of his muscles under the water. It was like touching a living, breathing work of art.

I pulled away from the kiss, needing to catch my breath and take in the sight in front of me. Intricate tattoos covered Knox’s pecs, seeming to tell a story. I traced my fingertips over them, mesmerized by their beauty.

“You’re so sexy,” I blurted out, unable to contain my admiration any longer.

Knox’s eyes sparkled with a mix of amusement and desire as he pulled me back into another intense kiss. Our bodies pressed against each other in the warm water, creating electric friction between us.

As we continued to kiss, our hands explored every inch of each other’s bodies. Then, with a splash, Knox flipped me in the water so I was covering his body with mine. My cock pressed against his girth, and suddenly I couldn’t breathe, because all I wanted was to taste him. I finally broke the kiss to catch my breath again, resting my forehead against Knox’s.

“Damn,” I whispered, feeling overwhelmed by everything that was happening between us. Never before in my life had I felt such intense lust for anyone. It was like Knox had cast a spell over me, forcing me to crave his touch, his words, his everything.

Knox combed his fingers through my wet hair. “You’re incredible,” he murmured, “and now I want more.” He placed his hands on my waist and physically turned me over again, then he scooted back and pulled me against him. I felt his hard cock against my lower back, throbbing, and one of his hands wrapped around my shaft.

“Oh my God,” I breathed, my eyes snapping shut. He squeezed it, then he slowly moved his fist up and down. “Am I dead? This can’t be real.”

“It’s real, baby,” Knox whispered, and I felt his lips on the back of my neck. “At least it better be, because there’s nowhere else I want to be than right here with you.”

Knox’s hand stroked up and down my shaft, sending waves of pleasure through my body. His lips were on my neck, whispering dirty words that made me squirm against him.

“You like that, baby?” Knox asked, his voice low and husky. “You like how I touch you?”

I could barely form coherent words as his hand continued to work me towards the edge. All I could do was nod and whimper in response.

“Tell me what you want,” he demanded, his breath hot against my skin. “You’re my slut, aren’t you?”

“Yes, Knox, I’m your fucking slut, and I’ll do anything you want.” My voice trembled, and I felt my cock grow even harder.

“You want, no baby, you fucking need my cock inside you.” Knox’s hand moved faster on my shaft. “When I make you come, and trust me, it will be more than once, you’ll scream my name. Now tell me what you truly desire, Finn.”

“I… I want to come,” I gasped.

Knox chuckled darkly. “Oh, you’ll come alright. But not yet.”

Before I could protest, Knox released his grip on me, and I groaned in frustration.

“Please,” I pleaded, arching my back towards him. “I’m a whore for you, Knox. Please, I…”

“Don’t worry, baby,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the nape of my neck. “We’re just getting started.”

Stroke of Genius- How I Create Electrifying Sex Scenes

I might have a thing for this model…

Let’s talk about sex…scenes. How do I turn up the heat on the page? Read on to find out.

Ever wondered what goes into writing those scenes that leave you hot under the collar? Today, I’m pulling back the curtain to give you a glimpse into my process for crafting steamy moments in my romance novels. 

When I first began writing fiction, I started out by writing short erotica stories under the name Enrique Cruz. At the time I was still working a dreadful day job as a dispatcher for a locksmith company. I wrote on the bus rides to and from work, on my lunch breaks, even in bars. You can only imagine what it was like writing sex scenes on a crowded bus full of people. But I was determined to make it as a writer, so I forced myself to get past the embarrassment and just did it. Save your money. The stories I wrote under the pen name Enrique Cruz were horrible. But they served the purpose of erotica: they were sexually stimulating with little regard to actual plotting and character development. 

Setting the Stage

For me, creating the perfect setting for a sex scene is essential. Whether it’s a moonlit beach, a cozy cabin, or a bustling cityscape, the location sets the mood and adds depth to the intimacy between my characters. And if they are well written, they further the romance in the most delicious ways possible.

For example, in my novella Making It Fierce, the main characters begin to have sex behind the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, under a magnolia tree. Yes, outdoor sex is fabulous, but normally most sex scenes begin and end in a bedroom. I had the MCs begin the sex outside as a means of showing how passionate they were feeling about each other, then they rushed home to the safety of Lucas’s apartment, and Elijah lost his virginity. 

Why is Elijah’s virginity so important? Read on to find out.

Character Chemistry

 But it’s not just about the setting—it’s about the chemistry between the characters. Before I even think about writing a sex scene, I spend time developing my characters’ relationships, ensuring that their connection is palpable and their desire for each other is undeniable. 

With Elijah I wanted to show you, the reader, how intense Elijah’s emotions for Lucas were. Elijah had spent years hiding away in his grandmother’s basement because of scars on his face and scalp. He truly never thought he’d meet anyone who could see who he was on the inside. When he finally did, he made himself the most vulnerable he’d ever been, showing you how much he craved Lucas’s love.

It’s a must when writing sex scenes for your characters to have sizzling chemistry. If not, what’s the point of the romance? Nobody wants to read a sex scene that is limp from the start. Trust me on this.

Building Anticipation

One of the most thrilling aspects of writing romance is building anticipation. From flirtatious banter to stolen glances, I love creating tension that keeps readers on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the moment when my characters finally give in to their desires.

In most of my novels, the main characters don’t do the nasty until they’ve developed feelings for each other. This usually means the sex takes place toward the end of a story, but that’s not always the case. In my upcoming novel Ignited, Finn and Alex are hitting the sheets on the high seas at the beginning of their love story. You’ll have to read the book to understand why I made that choice.

Emotional Connection

At the heart of every sex scene is emotion. Whether it’s longing, vulnerability, or pure passion, I strive to convey the depth of my characters’ feelings as they come together in intimate moments. I typically lean into vulnerability in sex scenes, where one or both of the MCs is making himself vulnerable to the other, and sharing part of himself he rarely does with anyone else.

Sensory Details

To bring my sex scenes to life, I rely on sensory details to immerse readers in the experience. The scent of a lover’s skin, the sound of their heartbeat, the taste of their kiss—each detail adds layers of richness to the scene.

Balancing Explicitness 

Finding the right balance between explicit detail and subtle suggestion is key. While I want my scenes to be steamy and sensual, I also want to leave room for readers’ imaginations to fill in the blanks. With that being said, if I don’t have to stop and take a, um, break, in the middle of writing a sex scene, then I know it’s not very good. You’ll have to guess what I usually do on that break…

Personal Touch

Of course, every writer has their own approach to crafting sex scenes, and mine is no exception. From my unique writing rituals to the inspirations that fuel my imagination, I bring my own personal touch to every scene I write.

Challenges and Rewards

 Writing sex scenes isn’t always easy, but the rewards are well worth the effort. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating a scene that resonates with readers on a deep, emotional level.

Conclusion

So there you have it—the secrets behind my steamy scenes. I hope this glimpse into my writing process has given you a newfound appreciation for the art of crafting romance. Until next time, happy reading!

If you haven’t signed up for my newsletter, do it now and get a free copy of my novella Making It Fit! My newsletter goes out weekly, and features all the news about my upcoming releases, sales, and fun articles like this one.

All About Alex

A couple of weeks ago I interviewed Finn from the upcoming novel, Ignited. This is how I get to know my characters better, and I typically use the style of Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine from back in the 1980s. Now, it’s Alex, the love of Finn’s life turn!

So Alex, If you had to pick a theme song for “Ignited,” what would it be, and why should readers hit play on their preorder to groove along with your story?

If I had to pick a theme song for “Ignited,” it would definitely be “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga. The song speaks to me on a personal level, as I’ve recently come out of the closet and embraced my true self. Just like the lyrics say, I was born to be brave and to embrace who I am, no matter what society says. My journey in “Ignited” mirrors the message of the song—finding the courage to be authentically me, despite the challenges and doubts along the way.

If you could take a road trip with any three characters from “Ignited,” who would  you choose as your co-pilots?

Well Ian, If I could take a road trip with anyone from “Ignited,” it would definitely be Finn, the love of my life. There’s something about hitting the open road with him by my side that just feels right. Plus, I could use the quality time together to deepen our connection and perhaps have a few naughty adventures!

And of course, I couldn’t imagine a road trip without my sister, Willow. She’s not only my sister but also my best friend. Having her along would guarantee endless laughs, heartfelt conversations, and probably a few sibling squabbles along the way. But hey, that’s all part of the fun, right?

Last but not least, I’d have to invite Daniel. Not only is he an incredible friend, but he’s also an amazing cook. I can already picture us pulling over at scenic spots and Daniel whipping up some delicious meals for us to enjoy together. Who wouldn’t want to hit the road with such an awesome crew?

 Imagine you’re stranded on a deserted island with only one character from “Ignited” for company. Who would you want by your side, and why should readers preorder to discover the unlikely alliances formed in your novel?

If I found myself stranded on a deserted island from “Ignited,” there’s only one person I’d want by my side: Finn. Being alone with him, surrounded by nothing but the sound of the waves and the warmth of the sun, sounds like a dream come true. We could explore the island together, build a shelter, and spend our days just enjoying being together.

Just the thought of being alone with Finn fills me with excitement! I can imagine us watching the sunset together, holding hands as we talk about our hopes, dreams, and fears. And as the stars light up the night sky, we’d cuddle close, and do what we love doing best. You’ll have to read the book to know what that is. (wink)

Thanks for agreeing to this interview Alex! I know you’re busy with your many business interests, so I really appreciate you answering a few questions.

If I were being smart I’d keep my mouth shut. But since you twisted my arm I’ll answer your questions.

My big, audacious dream? Well, on the surface, it might seem like I want to rule the world of business. And sure, that’s part of it. I’ve always been driven to succeed, to climb the corporate ladder and make a name for myself. But if I’m being honest, there’s something even bigger driving me—a dream that goes beyond corner offices and boardrooms.

What I really want, more than anything, is to feel comfortable in my own skin. For so long, I’ve hidden behind a mask, afraid to let anyone see the real me. But now, thanks to Finn, I’m starting to shed that mask and embrace who I truly am. He’s shown me that love isn’t about hiding your flaws; it’s about celebrating your strengths and accepting your vulnerabilities.

So, yes, part of my dream is to conquer the business world. But more importantly, it’s about conquering my own insecurities and fears. With Finn by my side, I know I can achieve anything—both in business and in life. He’s not just part of my dream; he’s the heart and soul of it.

This is our last question. What prompted you to go on a gay cruise in the first place?

Why did I choose to go on the bear cruise? Well, let’s just say I had recently experienced a significant shift in my world—a change that left me seeking something I couldn’t quite name. And what better way to embark on a journey of self-discovery than on a gay cruise?

The allure of being surrounded by hot guys, free from the constraints of societal expectations, was too tempting to resist. It felt like an opportunity to explore a part of myself that I had long kept hidden, to embrace a side of me that yearned to break free.

So, I boarded the ship, eager to unravel the mysteries of my own desires and to discover what awaited me on the open sea. And what I found was beyond anything I could have imagined—a voyage of self-discovery, passion, and unexpected connections that would change the course of my life forever.

If you’re intrigued by the allure of the unknown and crave a journey that will keep you guessing until the very end, preorder “Ignited” now and prepare to set sail on an adventure you won’t soon forget. Reserve your copy today from your favorite retailer by clicking here.

I Am Tessa Vidal

Embracing My Truth: Coming Out as Tessa Vidal

Dear readers,

Today, I’m sharing something deeply personal with you all, something that I’ve carried with me for quite some time but never found the courage to express openly. My name is Ian O. Lewis, and I am Tessa Vidal.

For years, I’ve been writing under the pen name Tessa Vidal, crafting stories of love, passion, and connection within the sapphic romance genre. But what many of you may not know is that I am not a woman—I am a gay man.

The decision to write under a female pseudonym was not one made lightly. In fact, it was born out of fear—fear that readers of lesbian fiction would reject my work if they knew the truth about my identity. As a member of the LGBTQ community myself, I felt a deep responsibility to contribute to the representation of queer love in literature. However, I also felt the weight of societal expectations and preconceptions about who should be telling these stories.

I want to make it unequivocally clear that I never intended to exploit readers of lesbian fiction. My decision to write under the name Tessa Vidal was driven by a desire to continue writing and producing fiction for the LGBTQ community, even if it meant doing so under a guise.

Initially, Tessa Vidal was a collaborative effort with other authors, but for the past two years, I’ve been the sole writer behind the name. It has been a journey of self-discovery and growth, and I am immensely proud of the work I’ve created as Tessa Vidal.

One of my favorite books that I’ve written under this pseudonym is “Jody, A Dark Lesbian Romance.” This novel holds a special place in my heart as it tells the tale of two women, both navigating the complexities of their lives as criminals, who find solace and love in each other’s arms.

Moving forward, I want to assure you all that I will continue to write books under both my own name, Ian O. Lewis, and Tessa Vidal. My commitment to telling stories that resonate with the LGBTQ community remains unwavering.

Thank you for your support and understanding as I embrace my truth and continue to share my words with the world. Tessa’s books are available exclusively on Amazon, and can be read for free with a Kindle Unlimited Subscription.

With love and gratitude, Ian O. Lewis (aka Tessa Vidal)

Welcome Home Ryan

Ryan & Jude’s love story is now live!

It’s Here! Welcome Home Ryan Is Live Today!

Attention romance lovers! It’s finally here! My scorching hot novella, Welcome Home Ryan, is officially live and ready to steal your heart!

Second Chances Bloom in a Vibrant City:

Ryan Mitchell thought a fresh start in his hometown was the answer to all his problems. But the universe had other plans. Enter Jude Thompson, the cocky artist who ignited a flame in Ryan’s heart back in college. Their reunion throws Ryan’s carefully constructed life into disarray. Can he resist Jude’s undeniable charm, or will their past come rushing back, rewriting the love story they once left behind?

A Love Story with Bite:

Jude Thompson has never forgotten Ryan. Their paths collide again, and Jude’s determined to reignite the flame they once shared. But Ryan’s hesitant. Can Jude convince him to take a chance on love again, or will their complicated history keep them apart?

Welcome Home Ryan is a standalone novella packed with:

  • Second-chance sparks that fly off the page
  • Enemies-to-lovers banter with a delicious twist
  • A charming city setting with hidden depths
  • A guaranteed happily-ever-after to leave you with a smile

Grab Your Copy Today!

Head over to your favorite online retailer and snag your copy of Welcome Home Ryan right now! You can find it on Amazon, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, Apple Books, Smashwords, and the Cruz Publishing bookstore.

Stay Connected!

Want to be the first to know about my upcoming releases, exclusive content, and author updates? Sign up for my newsletter by clicking here, and you’ll get a complimentary 30k novella called Making It Fit! You can also follow me on social media for all the bookish fun:

Happy reading! And remember, after you’ve devoured the story, consider leaving a review. It means the world to authors, and it helps other readers discover their next favorite book.

#WelcomeHomeRyan #NewRelease #Novella #SecondChanceRomance #LGBTQ+Romance

All About Finn McKenna

One of the ways I get to know my characters is to interview them, and for the first time I’m going to share it with you! Growing up in the 1980s, I was addicted to Andy Warhol’s Interview magazine. They always used celebrity interviewers, and while I’m not a celebrity, I will interview Finn McKenna in the same style as the magazine.

Oh, and one more thing. I’m reluctant to attach a picture to this interview, because I prefer readers being able to picture the character in their minds. But, for the sake of beefy manchest, I will attach a picture of what Finn might look like. Now for the interview.

Ian- Finn, thanks so much for agreeing to this interview. I hope you are well today.

Finn- Actually, you forced me into this. I had no choice but to answer your questions. Be that as it may, I’m doing great, except for a tiny headache. I brewed a new batch of beer last night called Moonlit Sonata Stout, and I might have taste tested it a little too much.

Ian- Oh, well you know I love a good beer.

Finn- This stout tastes amazing! Midnight Sonata Stout is a masterful composition of roasted malt, layered with hints of bittersweet cocoa and velvety espresso. Each sip is a crescendo of flavor, building in intensity and depth with every moment.

Ian- If you had to sum yourself up in a tweet-length bio, what would it say?

Finn- Hey there, folks! I’m Finn McKenna, owner of Fireside Forge Brewery in Scott’s Addition. Rugged brewmaster with a passion for crafting extraordinary beers and building community one pint at a time. 🍻 #BrewingWithHeart #CommunityOverEverything

Ian- What’s your big, audacious dream, and what’s fueling your journey towards it?

Finn- Ah, my big dream? Picture this: Fireside Forge Brewery becoming the go-to spot for beer lovers far and wide. I’m talking about creating a haven where folks gather not just for the brews, but for the sense of belonging and camaraderie. Every pint poured here is a step closer to turning that dream into a reality. It’s all about crafting an experience that leaves a lasting impression and brings people together over a shared love of finely brewed beer. That’s the fuel that keeps the fire burning, my friend.

Ian- In the novel Ignited, you go on a bear cruise. I’m assuming you have a thing for burly bear like guys?

Finn- (Laughs) Well, I wouldn’t say no to a burly bear of a guy, that’s for sure! The bear cruise was more about embracing new experiences and stepping out of my comfort zone. But hey, if a handsome, rugged fellow happens to catch my eye along the way, who am I to resist a little adventure? Life’s too short to limit yourself to just one type, don’t you think?

Ian- A hot bear did catch your eye, and his name is Alex.

Finn- I don’t kiss and tell. You’ll have to wait for the story to publish.

Ian- Oh come one, they say love is in the air… any juicy romance rumors you care to confirm or deny?

Finn- (Smiles mysteriously, raising an eyebrow) Well, you know what they say about rumors… Some things are best left to the imagination until the story unfolds. But let’s just say, there may be a few surprises in store when it comes to matters of the heart. You’ll just have to wait and see, won’t you?

Ian- Last question. When readers close the book, what’s the one thing you hope they take away from your journey?

Finn- Ah, when it comes down to it, I guess what I hope readers take away is that love truly does conquer all. Whether it’s love for brewing the perfect beer, love for building a community, or love for someone special, it’s that unwavering passion and connection that drives us forward, even in the face of challenges. So, here’s to raising a glass to love, in all its forms, and the incredible journey it takes us on. Cheers, my friends! 

Preorder your copy of Ignited, the first novel in the burning hearts series at your favorite bookstore by clicking here.

Writing A New Book, Suddenly Single

So Excited About This Book!

Writing has commenced on the third book in the Southern Discomfort series. You might wonder why I titled the series Southern Discomfort. It’s because the journey to love is rarely a smooth ride, but if you work at it, love always wins. To preorder your copy so it shows up on your ereader on the morning of December 27, go to your favorite store and hit that preorder button! Reserve your copy on Amazon, Kobo, Nook, Apple, and Google Play. Sorry, it’s not available for preorder on Smashwords yet, but will be soon. Here’s the prologue to the novel.

Carter- Three Years Ago

“I’m not getting on that thing.” I bitched. “You know I’m afraid of heights!”

“Then, why on earth did you want to go skiing? You know, on big, tall mountains thousands of feet above us?” Asher pointed at the white peaks surrounding us. “The only way up is in these gondolas”

“Karina told me how much fun Telluride is. But she didn’t mention mountains.” I huffed. “This haircut she gave me makes my chin look small.”

“For God’s sake, Carter. You’re the best-looking man in Richmond, and that includes your dimpled chin.” Asher took my hand and pulled me toward the shiny red gondola. “According to the sign, we’ll only be in the air for a few minutes, then we’ll…”

“I will hurl if I get in that thing.” I crossed my arms over my chest and felt stupid. Ever since I started dating Asher, I’d done all the rich-people stuff he was used to. Taking tennis lessons, joining the very expensive Country Club of Virginia, and now skiing in Colorado. According to my hairdresser, Telluride was the place to be if I wanted to up my social status. But did I have to be carried hundreds of feet in the air to do it?

“What if the cable snaps?”

“It won’t.” Asher sighed, then he held his hand out for me to take. “Let’s have a drink first. Maybe that will calm you down.”

“You want me to go skiing for the first time, drunk?” I took his hand, and he pulled me away from the gondola and back toward the main street. It reminded me of pictures I’d seen of snowy Switzerland.

“We don’t have to go skiing, Carter.” Asher murmured. “The whole point of this trip was to get away from our mothers and their friends. We never get to be alone.”

Asher had a point. Mom and I worked together as interior designers, while Asher worked at his mother’s law firm. Our lives were a constant swirl of bridge games, parties, and family gatherings. And you only learned how to play bridge for love. “So, you won’t be mad if I won’t go up on that gondola?”

“No.” Asher stopped walking, and I bumped into him, nearly knocking both of us down to the icy sidewalk. “I just want to be with you. But who knows, maybe a cocktail will calm you down enough to get on the stupid thing.”

~~~

“I love you, Carter. Please, believe me, I really, really, do.”

“Even if I’m not from a wealthy family?” That slipped out of my mouth before I thought about it. It was difficult being his boyfriend sometimes, because he was wealthy. I lacked something that was innate to him, and constantly struggled to act like living in mansions while being waited on by servants was normal.

“I wish you’d stop being weird about that.” Asher reached across the table and took my hand. “I can’t help it if I was born a Yates, and you can’t help that you were born into, well, a normal family. Though your mother is hardly normal.”

I smirked and took a sip of my gin and tonic. “Mom is a unique woman, but my business wouldn’t be flourishing without her help. She keeps everything running smoothly, so I can take impromptu trips to Colorado with you.”

Asher bit his lip, then squeezed my hand. “You’ve had three cocktails. Think you can brave the gondola ride now?”

“You really want me to ski for the first time with a buzz?” I giggled, and Asher shook his head and smiled.

“I have a surprise for you on top of Palmyra Peak, and it has nothing to do with skiing.” Asher gazed into my eyes, unblinking, and my pulse ticked up. Whenever he surprised me with something, it was always out of this world. Just a month ago, he’d blindfolded me, dragged me to the airport, and two hours later we were sitting in the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. I hated opera, but damn, talk about an over-the-top treat. 

“Fine.” I emptied my glass and Asher signaled the waiter for the check. “But if I get sick hundreds of feet in the air, you’re paying for the victim on the ground’s cleaning bill.”

* * *

We had the gondola to ourselves, thank God, and I kept my eyes shut the entire ride. “I’m going to throw up, I can feel it.”

“You’re fine, baby, only two more minutes.” Asher kissed my cheek. “I can see the station where we are landing.”

“It feels like we’re on a wobbly boat.” I opened my eyes for a second and saw Asher typing something on his phone. His lips twisted for a moment, then he shoved the phone back into the pocket of his beige parka. The gondola shook, and my eyes snapped shut again. “We’re going to die!”

“No, baby. Trust me, we’re going to be just fine.” I felt his breath hot against my cheek. A moment later, the gondola shook like we were in the middle of an earthquake. “We’re docking at the station, that’s all. Open your eyes, and you’ll see everything’s okay.”

I did as instructed, and was relieved to see he was right. It was strangely empty, except for a single person staring at our gondola. Once we were out of it, the stranger strolled up to us.

“Are you Asher Yates?” It was a woman’s voice. She was bundled up in a parka similar to the ones we were wearing. Asher smiled and nodded. “Come with me. We’ll be there in less than five minutes.”

“Who is she, and where is she taking us?”

Asher didn’t respond to my question. Instead, he placed his hand on the small of my back and pushed me forward. Once we were outside the station, I saw what appeared to be two sparkling blue snowmobiles. At least, I thought they were. I’d never seen one outside of the movies before.

“Here are our rides.” The woman gestured toward it. “Get in the one on the left and follow me.”

“Do you know how to drive one of these things?” I whispered, and sank down into the rear seat of the contraption. It had a seatbelt, so I snapped it in place and clutched the sides.

“Yes. I grew up driving these things around Telluride.” Asher grinned and started the engine. Being around him was surreal at times. Like, when we arrived, I expected us to stay at a hotel. A fancy hotel, of course. Instead, we were staying at the family compound, an enormous log mansion with fireplaces you could literally stand inside of. Moments later, we were heading up a mountain. 

The sound of swooshing snow and the engines made conversation impossible, so I tightened my hat and kept my face down to keep it from getting wet. Suddenly, we came to a stop.

“We’re here.” Asher said. “C’mon, get out and look at the view.”

I did as he asked, though when I stood up, I almost fell flat on my ass. My legs were shaking, and I smiled nervously toward Asher and the strange woman. She strolled through the snow until she was a few yards away. Asher gently pushed me forward until we were next to a giant boulder.

“Isn’t it amazing.” Asher put his arm around me, and for a moment, I forgot how to breathe. “I asked you here for a reason.” He murmured, and if I wasn’t mistaken, his voice was trembling.

“What is it?”

“Now that we’re away from our crazy families, I want to ask you a very serious question.” Asher dropped to his knees in the snow. My heart hammered in my chest. He grabbed my gloved hand and stared up at me. “If we were back in Richmond, everyone would make a big fuss over this, and I just want it to be you and me.”

“Yes.” I whispered. “Go on, ask me.”

“Carter Camden, I love you with all my heart and soul. Will you do me the honor of becoming my husband?” Asher asked, and at the same time, a bunch of snow blew on us. He waved his free hand in front of his face while I stared into his cobalt eyes. I opened my mouth to respond, but nothing came out. I wanted to say yes, scream it actually, but it was like I had a sudden onset of laryngitis. “Please, answer me, Carter.”

I nodded and croaked out, “Yes, of course, I’ll marry you.”

Asher leapt to his feet, let go of my hand, and cupped his hands around his mouth. “He said yes!” Asher screamed into the valley lying at our feet. I heard a clapping sound, and remembered the strange woman who’d come with us. She was strolling through the snow toward us when Asher pulled me into his chest and kissed me. 

“Gentlemen, are you prepared to do it now? Or do you need….”

“Now.” Asher exclaimed, and the biggest smile I’d ever smiled stretched across my cheeks. “You have the license and stuff?” He asked her, and she nodded.

“You planned this all along?” I asked, amazed at the romantic gesture. Asher nodded.

“My name is Linda Crawford and I’m a non-denominational officiant, licensed by the state of Colorado to perform weddings.” I heard her say, but I couldn’t take my eyes off of Asher. The man I loved more than anything or anyone else in the world was marrying me, a man who’d grown up poor on Richmond’s Southside. He could have had anyone he wanted, but he’d chosen me.

“I love you, Asher, more than you’ll ever know.”

I’m Glad My Mom Died: My Review

The author is facing controversy, and I think it’s wrong.

So I read a lot of books because it’s part of my job. Recently I purchased the audiobook of “I’m Glad My Mom Died” to listen to while working out. It’s hard to listen to, because I identify so much with her story.

I’d never heard of this actress before, mostly because I’m older, and wasn’t watching Nickleodeon when her show iCarly was a hit. I purchased this audiobook solely because of the title. I’m not going to tell you her story because I think you should read/listen to it yourself. For me, it was a revelation to hear someone speak their truth about such a sensitive topic. Abuse isn’t an easy matter to open up about, but after hearing her story I totally understand why she titled her book the way she did.

My mother is still alive, and no, I don’t wish she was dead. But I’ve divorced her from my life because the abuse Jennette McCurdy lived with is so similar to what I dealt with. This isn’t going to be a post about my life beyond pointing out a few similarities. My intention is to write my memoirs once my mother has passed away.

As a small child, my parents were like Gods to me, benevolent and kind. But as I grew older I realized things were very different in my house compared to other kids. When I was eight, my father caught the house on fire while drunk. And as I grew older the punishments became worse. I had scars on my ass and thighs that didn’t fade until I was in my late twenties. My mother was vicious with a leather belt. When they discovered I was gay by spying on a phone call with my future sister-in-law, things grew even worse. My parents kicked me out of the house when I was 17 for being gay. Before that, they kept me locked in the house for months at a time so I wouldn’t hang out with gay friends, not that I had many of them as a teenager. And the abuse didn’t stop when I was an adult. My niece was instructed by my mother to stay away from me, that I was evil.

My mother thinks I’m evil.

That’s just the tip of the iceburg. I’ve suffered with depression and eating disorders for decades now. Thankfully, the depression is mostly in the past. What I really identify with in her book is using humor to cope with darkness. There’s a reason I’ve made the decision only to write light-hearted rom-coms, so I can laugh instead of crying. Did enough of that already, and like Jennette, I like to think of myself moving forward, and not wallowing in the past.

I definitely recommend this book to anyone who has suffered at the hands of abusive family members. You can purchase the audiobook/ebook/print book on Amazon, Apple Books, and Google Play.

Books, and finding my voice.

A place to sit your ass down, bookstyle, of course.

I love Guadalajara, and this bench is just one of dozens of book benches located throughout the city. This place celebrates books like no other city I’ve lived in. While they do have so-called normal bookstores, my favorites are the creepy ones the size of a closet. Those wonderfully spooky bookstores are dotted throughout the city.

Guadalajara, book capital of the world.

So, I’ve recently become more self-aware about my writing, specifically my voice, or style. Three years ago I started a series known as The Balcony Boys. The first book in the series was called Situationship, and I love the book and the characters, specifically the landlady, Dotty. She is a wise soul who counsels the tenants who live in her apartment building, and teaches at a ballet school in her basement. But, it was a difficult book to write and I couldn’t figure out why. Now, I know.

Shifters? Not sure about this one.

My typical novel is lighthearted, and fun, with both comedic elements and romance. Situationship is not that kind of book, and neither was the second book in the series, Max. They were so difficult to write, but at the time I believed I was stretching myself creatively. I was, but I’ve decided not to write such serious books in the future. It’s just not my style. I know many people who love serious dramas, but I’m not one of them, and I’m no longer forcing myself to write books I don’t enjoy writing. Let’s put it this way, if I’m not giggling during the editing process, the writing is off, and needs to be fixed.

Because of this self-realization I’ve decided to leave the series as is, and I’m not writing any more books in that world. So it’s a duet, not a full-fledged series. I worked my ass off writing them, and I love them. But from now on I’m staying true to my voice. You can purchase The Balcony Boys Duet in one volume at my personal bookstore, Apple, Kobo, Amazon, Nook, Google Play, and Smashwords.

Earthquake!

Yesterday was exciting, but not in the fun, friendly way. An earthquake struck 90 km south of where I live, and trust me, I could feel it. The entire building I reside in shook, and scared the hell out of me! What’s odd is I was just sitting down to begin writing the latest novel in the Southern Discomfort series, which for now is called Suddenly Single. I can’t wait to tell ya’ll more about the novel, but since I’ve only written the prologue, give me a couple of weeks and I’ll tell you more about it. Stay safe readers!