🔥 Down in the Archives: A Forbidden Encounter You Won’t Forget 🔥

Let’s just say the basement of Blackwood (better known as Sodom) has seen its share of secrets… but none quite like this.

In this exclusive scene from Prisoners of Sodom: The Betrayal, Austin and Mario find themselves trapped between danger, desire, and a wall of dusty files. What starts as tension turns electric, as these two men—each with his own secrets and scars—finally give in to the pull between them. It’s raw, it’s hot, and it just might be the moment that changes everything.

If you haven’t stepped into the world of Prisoners of Sodom yet, this is your invitation. Come for the power plays and psychological mind games… stay for the sex, the stakes, and the men who refuse to break.

The scene continues down below—and don’t say I didn’t warn you. 🔥

Austin settled into the ancient chair, its springs creaking in protest beneath his weight. The computer booted with a series of wheezes and clicks that sounded alarmingly like death rattles. While waiting for the ancient machine to stagger to life, he pulled the nearest box toward him, coughing as a cloud of dust billowed upward.

The cardboard was soft with age, disintegrating at the corners. Inside, manila folders were packed so tightly they might have been wedged in with a hammer. Each bore typed labels, some with handwritten notes in faded blue ink.

“Might as well start somewhere,” he muttered to himself, pulling out the first folder.

Hours passed in a blur of paper and dust. Austin developed a rhythm: open folder, scan document, type basic information into the database, move to the next. The work was mind-numbing but oddly soothing in its monotony. Here, surrounded by the forgotten history of thousands of lives, Austin could almost forget his own circumstances.

Almost.

By midday, he’d opened a dozen boxes, each more deteriorated than the last. In one, he discovered a nest of desiccated roaches, their translucent bodies crumbling to dust when he disturbed them. Another box contained hundreds of intake forms from the 1970s, the paper yellowed and brittle, smelling faintly of cigarettes.

The worst was a box tucked beneath a leaking pipe. When Austin pulled it free, the soggy bottom gave way, spilling its contents across the floor. Along with the waterlogged papers came three mummified mice, their tiny bodies preserved in the airless confines of the box, whiskers still intact, eye sockets empty and accusing.

“Jesus Christ!” Austin stumbled backward, nearly toppling his chair.

He stared at the tiny corpses, his stomach lurching. After a moment of frozen disgust, he remembered the camera mounted above the door—a silent, watchful eye recording his every move.

Austin forced himself to breathe through his mouth as he found a discarded file folder to scoop up the desiccated remains. He deposited them in a metal trash can by the desk, trying not to think about how many more such surprises might be waiting in the unopened boxes.

That’s when he heard it—the soft, deliberate tap of footsteps approaching from the corridor outside. The footsteps paused just outside the door. Austin swiveled in his chair, wincing at the betraying creak of ancient springs. His heart stuttered when he saw who stood in the doorway.

Mario.

His face was taut with urgency, his index finger pressed firmly against his lips in the universal sign for silence. His dark eyes darted meaningfully toward the camera mounted above the door, then back to Austin.

Austin’s gaze followed. The camera’s red recording light blinked steadily, its unblinking eye trained directly on him. But Mario was standing just outside its field of vision, pressed against the wall in a camera blind spot that shouldn’t exist. A cold wash of understanding slid down Austin’s spine—Mario shouldn’t be here at all.

Mario’s finger moved from his lips to point leftward, a deliberate, unmistakable gesture. Austin turned his head casually, as if surveying his next batch of boxes. Between the towering stacks of cardboard and filing cabinets, he saw it: a narrow pathway he hadn’t noticed before, winding through the labyrinth of storage toward the back of the cavernous room.

Mario nodded once. His eyes spoke volumes in that single gesture: Follow the path. Now.

Austin’s mouth went dry. With deliberate casualness, Austin stretched his arms above his head, feigning fatigue. He yawned elaborately for the benefit of whoever might be watching the feed, then rose from his chair. He made a show of reaching for a box on a higher shelf near the path entrance, as if that had been his intention all along.

“Just need to check these records,” he said aloud, his voice echoing oddly in the vast room. “Cross-reference some dates.”

Austin slipped between the towering stacks of boxes, each step carrying him deeper into the archives. The air grew thicker, stagnant with the scent of old paper and decay. Dust clung to his skin, the fine grit catching in his throat. He suppressed a cough, ears straining for any sound beyond his own careful footfalls.

The corridor of forgotten history seemed endless. The deeper he went, the more the boxes deteriorated—some had caved in, their contents spilled like abandoned confessions. Scattered among them were the skeletal remains of mice, dried and shriveled.

Austin’s fingers tightened into fists. He didn’t consider himself squeamish, but the sheer number of dead things made his skin crawl. The hush of the archives became oppressive, broken only by the occasional, almost imperceptible sound—a faint rustle inside the walls, a scrabbling noise that made his stomach clench.

Rats, he thought, swallowing hard.

A distant clink sent a chill down his spine. He froze. Then another sound—this one unmistakable. Metal shifting.

His gaze snapped toward the back wall just as an old ventilation grate trembled, the bolts groaning against decades of rust. The cover popped free with a metallic clatter and swung open. For half a second, the darkness behind it yawned like a mouth, gaping and endless. Then Mario emerged.

He stepped down onto the concrete floor, dust cascading from his shoulders.

Mario’s gaze locked onto him, dark and unreadable, but filled with something deeper, something urgent. And then, before Austin could utter a single word, Mario closed the distance between them and captured him in his arms.

The kiss wasn’t careful. It wasn’t tentative. It was hungry, raw, and unchecked. Mario’s hands gripped Austin’s face, rough palms anchoring him as his lips crashed against Austin’s with a fervor that stole the breath from his lungs. Heat seared through him, obliterating every thought, every lingering shadow of fear.

He melted into Mario’s embrace, and Mario kissed him like he was afraid this moment would be stolen away. His mouth was demanding, insistent, tasting of longing and something darker. Nothing mattered except this—Mario, solid and unyielding against him, the sharp press of his stubble against Austin’s skin, the way he exhaled a ragged breath between kisses, like he had been holding it all inside for too long.

Austin’s knees nearly gave out. His hands slid up Mario’s back, feeling the tension there, the muscles wound tight with barely restrained emotion. He wanted to say something, anything, but words felt pointless in the face of this. Instead, he let himself drown in the moment, let the cold, dust-choked air and the eerie whisper of the past dissolve around them.

Mario broke away first, just enough to press his forehead against Austin’s. His breath was warm against Austin’s lips, his grip still firm, like he couldn’t bear to let go. When he finally spoke, his voice was hoarse, edged with something unspoken.

“I had to see you.”

Austin closed his eyes, swallowing against the thickness in his throat. “I know.”

For a moment, there was only the sound of their breathing, the whisper of distant scurrying in the walls, and the lingering taste of longing on Austin’s lips.

Then Mario’s hand slid down to clasp his wrist. “We don’t have much time. There’s so much we need to say, but…” Mario took Austin’s hand in his, then pressed it against his erection. Austin gasped and realized his own cock was painfully hard. “Austin, there’s been no one else since I’ve been here in Sodom. You’re the only man I want.”

Austin’s breath caught in his throat. The surrounding archives seemed to recede, the dust-laden air electrified with tension. He felt Mario’s pulse hammering beneath his fingertips, matching the frantic rhythm of his own heart.

“This is insane,” Austin whispered, even as his hand pressed more firmly against Mario’s bulge. “If anyone finds us—”

“They won’t,” Mario growled. His eyes, dark and intent, never left Austin’s face. “I’ve been mapping this place for months. The camera feeds have blind spots—deliberate ones. Someone designed it that way.”

Austin’s mind raced, trying to process this information while his body burned with need. “Why would they—”

Mario silenced him with another kiss, gentler this time, but no less urgent. “Later,” he breathed against Austin’s lips. “I’ll explain everything later.”

His hands were already working at Austin’s belt, fingers deft and purposeful. Austin felt himself being guided backward until his spine met the cool metal of an ancient filing cabinet.

“Here?” Austin breathed, half-disbelieving, half-desperate.

Mario’s answering smile was wolfish in the dim light. “Here. Now.” His voice dropped to a husky whisper. “I’ve thought about this since I saw you in the cell across from mine. Dreamed about it.”

The confession broke something open in Austin’s chest. Caution evaporated as he pulled Mario closer, his hands sliding beneath the other man’s shirt to find warm skin stretched over taut muscle. The feeling of skin against skin was electric, addictive.

“I’ve missed you so much,” Austin breathed.

Time compressed, folded in on itself. Their movements became urgent, frantic even, clothes pushed aside rather than removed completely. Mario’s mouth traced a burning path down Austin’s neck, teeth grazing the sensitive skin where neck met shoulder. Austin bit back a moan, acutely aware that the sound might carry in this cavernous space.

“I want to hear you, love,” Mario murmured against his collarbone. “But not here. Not yet.”

The promise in those words—of a later, of somewhere else—sent another surge of heat through Austin’s body. Mario’s hand slipped between them, wrapping around them both, and Austin had to press his face against Mario’s shoulder to muffle the sound that threatened to escape.

Mario dropped to his knees, unzipped Austin’s pants and pulled out his aching cock. He gazed at it for a long moment, as if it were a momento of the time when they were both free on the outside. Then he took it in his mouth.

Mario’s mouth was warm and wet, a shocking contrast to the cool, stale air around them. His lips slid down Austin’s length with ease, his tongue tracing patterns that made Austin’s vision blur. Austin’s fingers tangled in Mario’s dark hair, not guiding, just anchoring himself to something solid as waves of pleasure threatened to buckle his knees.

“God, I’ve missed this,” Austin whispered, his voice barely audible even to his own ears. The sight of Mario on his knees before him, eyes closed in concentration, cheeks hollowed with each deliberate pull, was almost too much to bear.

Mario worked Austin’s cock with an intensity that bordered on reverence, alternating between deep, engulfing strokes and teasing flicks of his tongue that made Austin’s toes curl inside his cheap prison shoes. When Mario’s hands gripped his hips, pinning him against the filing cabinet with unexpected strength, Austin felt the cool metal press against his back through his thin shirt, a grounding counterpoint to the heat building low in his belly.

The room around them faded to nothing—the dust, the decay, the watchful cameras, all of it receded beneath the tide of sensation. There was only Mario’s mouth, the slick sounds of pleasure, and the ragged cadence of their breathing.

Just as Austin felt himself approaching the edge, Mario pulled away. His lips were swollen, eyes dark with need as he rose to his feet in one fluid motion. From his pocket, he withdrew a small plastic tub, unscrewing the cap with trembling fingers.

Vaseline.

“Commissary,” he muttered, the word rough at the edges. “Cost me a bundle, but…”

Austin cut him off with a desperate kiss, tasting himself on Mario’s tongue.

With deft movements, Mario pushed Austin back and freed himself from his uniform pants, his erection jutting between them. He dipped his fingers into the vaseline, coating himself generously, his eyes never leaving Austin’s face.

“Turn around,” he commanded, his voice dropping to a register that vibrated through Austin’s chest.

Austin complied, bracing his forearms against the filing cabinet. Behind him, he heard Mario’s breath catch, felt rough hands on his exposed skin as his pants were roughly pulled down to his knees. The cool air against his bare skin made him shiver—or perhaps it was anticipation.

There was a moment of pressure, a burning stretch that made Austin wince, his body tensing at the intrusion. Mario paused, one hand stroking soothingly down Austin’s spine.

“Breathe,” he whispered, his lips brushing the nape of Austin’s neck. “Just breathe.”

Austin drew in a shuddering breath, his body gradually yielding to Mario’s gentle persistence. Each exhale released more tension, allowing Mario to sink deeper.

“That’s it,” Mario murmured, his voice strained. His fingers dug into Austin’s hips, leaving crescent-shaped impressions that would bloom into bruises by morning. “God, you feel even better than I remembered.”

The words sent a jolt through Austin’s body, clenching around Mario and drawing a hiss from both of them. The dusty air of the archives seemed to thicken, charged with electricity and desperation. Austin pressed his forehead against the cool metal of the filing cabinet, its surface fogging with his ragged breaths.

“Give it to me,” Austin pleaded, his voice barely recognizable to his own ears. “Hard. Rough.”

Mario’s response was immediate—a slow withdrawal followed by a deliberate thrust that sent stars exploding behind Austin’s eyelids. The careful rhythm quickly gave way to something more primal, more urgent. Mario’s hips snapped forward with increasing force, each thrust driving Austin against the filing cabinet with a muted metallic thud that seemed impossibly loud in the hushed archives.

Austin bit down on his lower lip to keep from crying out. The sensation was almost too much—Mario filling him completely, stretching him open, hitting that spot inside that made his legs tremble and his vision blur. It had been so long since they’d been together like this. The separation had hollowed him out, left him aching and incomplete. Now, with Mario’s body joined with his, Austin felt something vital clicking back into place.

Mario’s breathing grew ragged, his movements more erratic. One hand snaked around Austin’s hip to grasp his neglected cock, which leaked steadily against the metal cabinet. The touch was almost unbearably intense, sending shockwaves of pleasure-pain through Austin.

“I won’t last,” Mario warned, his voice breaking on the confession. “You feel too good. It’s been too long.”

“Me neither,” Austin gasped. Mario’s thrusts became harder, deeper, each one striking that perfect spot within Austin that made his vision swim. The cabinet rattled softly with their movements, the sound blending with their muffled groans.

Austin felt the pressure building, coiling tight at the base of his spine. His body trembled on the precipice, hovering at the edge. Mario’s rhythm faltered, his grip tightening on Austin’s hip as he buried himself deep.

“Oh Austin, mi amor…”

Austin felt the hot pulse of Mario’s release, triggering his own climax. He bit down on his forearm to muffle his cry as pleasure crashed through him in waves, his body clenching around Mario, drawing out every last sensation.

For several heartbeats, they remained frozen in place, connected and trembling. Mario’s forehead rested between Austin’s shoulder blades, his breath hot against sweat-dampened skin. His arms encircled Austin’s waist, holding him close as if afraid he might dissolve into the dust-laden air.

“I missed you,” Mario whispered, the words so soft they barely disturbed the silence.

Austin closed his eyes, savoring the weight of Mario against him, inside him. “I missed you too.”

Mario’s mouth pressed kisses against the back of his head, and Austin thought his heart would give out. Then Mario pulled his cock out of him, turned Austin around, and stared straight into his eyes.

“Why the hell are you in Sodom, Austin? What the hell did you do?”


Read Prisoners Of Sodom today. It’s available at all major online bookstores as well as Cruz Publishing. This is an ongoing dark gay romance serial with new episodes releasing twice monthly.

Colliding with the Past: When Benjamin Meets Deacon Again

After more than a decade apart, Benjamin Kensington returns to his family estate—only to come face-to-face with the one man he never truly let go of. In this long-overdue reunion, old tensions and undeniable chemistry simmer beneath the surface as Benjamin and Deacon Langford meet again in the dusty confines of the Kensington barn. But with history between them as weathered as the estate itself, will they find common ground… or just reopen old wounds?

Read on for Chapter 3 of Making It Real, where the past and present collide in the most unexpected way.

The late afternoon sun stretched long golden fingers across the fields, the tall grass swaying like waves on a restless sea. The scent of honeysuckle and warm earth filled the air, wrapping around me in a way that felt almost too familiar. Too intimate.

I walked beside my mother, our steps crunching softly over the dirt path that led toward the barn. She talked a mile a minute, her voice light and lilting, as if I’d only been gone a few months instead of more than a decade.

“I just can’t tell you how pleased I am to have you back, Benji,” she said, looping her arm through mine. “Even if it’s just for a little while.”

I gave her a sideways glance. “You make it sound like I was lost at sea.”

“Well, weren’t you? New York, all that hustle and bustle—Lord knows I don’t understand how anyone could live in a city like that.” She patted my arm. “I always knew you’d come home, though. Kensington men always do.”

I swallowed. She hadn’t asked me about my being fired, and I wasn’t ready to talk about it. Not yet.

Instead, I let her chatter on about the latest local news—the Hansons’ dog finally had her puppies, some new bakery had opened up on Route 33, and Lord help us all, Lucille Montgomery had been in three car accidents over the past year. Mom wondered when they’d take her license away.

I nodded along, but my attention was elsewhere.

For the first time, I really looked at my mother.

She was still the formidable Maggie Kensington, with her perfectly styled hair and that air of effortless Southern charm, but there were new lines around her eyes, a certain tiredness in the way she moved. When had she started looking… older?

Something uneasy settled in my chest. Maybe it really was time to come home.

Not permanently, of course. Just long enough to make sure she was okay.

We rounded the bend, and the barn came into view.

I nearly stopped in my tracks.

The old place looked like hell.

The once-bright red paint had long since faded to a tired, splintered gray. The roof sagged in places, and I didn’t even want to think about the condition of the inside.

Mom let out a sigh, shaking her head. “Lord, it needs work.”

That was putting it mildly.

She gave me a sideways glance. “You remember how beautiful it used to be?”

I did. I remembered everything.

Sneaking in here as kids, building forts in the loft, whispering secrets in the dark. And later—much later—stealing away to this very barn in the heat of summer, pressing Deacon against the rough wooden beams, feeling the solid strength of him beneath my hands, tasting sweat and salt and something sweeter than anything New York had ever offered me.

I swallowed hard.

Deacon.

Jesus. What if I saw him while I was here?

Would he still hate me? Probably.

I deserved it.

I’d spent years trying not to think about how I’d treated him. The cruel words I’d said. About the way I’d tried to shape him into someone he wasn’t, someone who would fit neatly into the polished future I’d imagined for myself.

But he’d been right.

He wasn’t meant for skyscrapers and boardrooms. His destiny was this land, the fields, and the sun on his skin.

And God help me, I’d never felt as safe, as seen, as whole as I had when I was with him.

Mom gave my arm a little squeeze. “Come on, let’s look inside.”

I took a breath and followed her into the dim interior, expecting dust and disrepair.

What I wasn’t expecting was him.

Deacon stood in the middle of the barn, shirt in hand, his tanned skin gleaming with a light sheen of sweat. He looked like something out of a damned painting, the afternoon sun cutting through the slats in golden beams, lighting him up like a statue of a god—earthy and strong, carved from muscle and memory.

My breath caught in my throat.

Deacon’s eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment, time folded in on itself.

I wasn’t Benjamin Kensington, the man who’d clawed his way up the corporate ladder. I wasn’t the guy who had just lost everything.

I was eighteen again.

I was standing in this barn, my hands buried in Deacon’s hair, my lips pressed to his, the world outside falling away.

Heat crawled up my neck, and I realized, with no small amount of horror, that I was blushing.

Mom clapped her hands together, oblivious to the tension that had sucked all the air out of the barn.

“Well, now! Isn’t this just perfect?” she said, beaming between us. “The two of you, back together, just like old times.”

Not exactly, Mother.

She turned to me with a wide smile. “You know, Deacon’s been helping me out around here for years. I was just saying how much this place needs work—wouldn’t it be wonderful if you two worked on it together? Just imagine it, Benji! The two of you, bringing the estate back to its former glory.”

Her voice was light, hopeful.

Deacon’s face was unreadable.

And me?

I was wondering how the hell I was supposed to survive this.

Mom kept talking, her voice bright with excitement, but I wasn’t listening.

I couldn’t.

Deacon’s gaze locked onto mine, and for the life of me, I couldn’t look away.

Those eyes—icy blue, sharp as ever, even in the hazy light filtering through the barn. When we were younger, I used to swear they could see right through me, past all the charm and bravado, straight to the things I didn’t dare admit.

Now?

Now they held me in place like a snare.

The golden shafts of afternoon light caught the flush creeping up his chest, dusting across his neck before settling high on his cheeks. He turned away first, and I exhaled, realizing I’d been holding my breath.

Was that embarrassment? Or something else?

Did he still hate me?

Or had seeing me again hit him just as hard as it had hit me?

“Benji, did you hear me?” Mom’s voice pulled me back, her perfectly manicured hands gesturing around the barn. “I said we need to find a way to make this place profitable again.”

“Hmm?” I asked, still too caught up in Deacon’s presence to register the question.

Deacon shifted, rolling his shoulders, then cleared his throat.

“It’s good to see you, Benjamin.” His voice was low, rough around the edges, like he hadn’t spoken much today. Maybe he hadn’t.

That flush from before deepened across his throat, and something tightened low in my stomach.

I opened my mouth, but before I could respond, Mom jumped in again.

“Benji, I asked how we can make Kensington House profitable. Property taxes are going up, but there’s next to no revenue coming in.”

I blinked at her, barely processing the question. My mind was still stuck on Deacon, on the way his voice had brushed against my skin like a whisper of a touch.

Mom huffed, impatience creeping into her tone.

“Well?”

I rubbed my temples, sighing. “Maybe we’d be better off selling it to someone who actually cares about it.”

The words had barely left my mouth before I realized my mistake.

Mom’s eyebrows shot skyward. Deacon frowned, jaw tightening as his eyes darkened.

The air in the barn shifted.

Mom placed a hand on her hip. “Benjamin Kensington, I cannot believe you just said that.”

“Mom—”

“This land has been in our family for generations.” She waved an arm toward the open barn doors. “Do you have any idea how much history is here? Your grandfather, your great-grandfather, every ancestor before them—they worked this land, they built this home, and you think selling it is the answer?”

I sighed again, this time heavier. “I’m just saying—”

“No.”

The word came from Deacon.

I turned toward him, surprised by the sharp edge in his tone.

“You never change,” he muttered, shaking his head. “You never gave a damn about this place. Benjamin, you’re lucky to have it, and you can’t even see that.”

A prickle of irritation worked its way up my spine.

“That’s not fair,” I said, leveling him with a look. “It’s easy for you to say that. You stayed.”

“Yeah,” Deacon said, eyes flashing. “I did.”

The weight of what he wasn’t saying settled between us.

I left home and never looked back.

Until now.

I sighed, trying to smooth things over. “Look, I didn’t mean—”

“Enough of that,” Mom interrupted, waving a hand as if physically dismissing the tension. “I asked you here to talk about solutions, not start up old arguments.”

Deacon exhaled through his nose, but kept quiet.

Mom turned to him, a hopeful smile on her face. “Deacon, I’d like to hire you to work on the estate. We can start with the barn—it needs more work than anything.”

Deacon’s posture relaxed slightly, his gaze shifting toward the exposed beams above us.

She continued, “And another thing—what about all that old farm equipment we don’t use? I was thinking we could sell some of it.”

Deacon finally turned, his eyes scanning the far corner of the barn. My gaze followed his, landing on a hulking piece of rust-covered machinery. I didn’t know what it was, but I could tell by the look on his face that he did.

Slowly, he faced Mom again, and for the first time since we’d walked in, he smiled.

A genuine smile.

Soft. Familiar. The kind that made my stomach tighten for reasons I didn’t want to think about.

Instead of answering immediately, he walked over to the piece of equipment, running a hand along the corroded metal. Then he turned back to Mom.

“How about this?” he said. “Instead of paying me money, I’ll work in exchange for some of this old equipment.”

Mom’s face lit up. “That’s a fine idea! Lord knows we don’t need half the things stored in this barn.”

“Deal,” Deacon said, giving her a small nod.

Mother clasped her hands together, positively beaming. “Oh, Deacon, this is just wonderful! With your help, we’ll have this place looking like it should again.”

Deacon gave her a small nod, but his expression was careful, guarded. His fingers trailed along the rusted edge of the old farm equipment, his focus seemingly on anything but me.

Then Mother turned in my direction, her keen eyes narrowing.

“And you,” she said, pointing a manicured finger in my direction. “You’re going to help.”

I blinked. “What?”

“You heard me, Benji. Deacon can’t do all this by himself.”

Deacon shifted beside me. I caught the way his throat worked as he swallowed, a fresh blush creeping up his neck. He hesitated before muttering, “Let Benjamin handle the business side of things. I can take care of—”

“Oh, nonsense,” Mother interrupted, waving off his protest. “Benji needs to get his hands dirty again. He needs to understand how lucky he is to have this place.”

I exhaled through my nose, resisting the urge to roll my eyes. “Mom—”

She wasn’t finished. “And besides, I remember how happy you boys used to be, working out here together.”

My stomach twisted at that.

She stepped away from us, walking toward the hulking old tractor in the corner. It was ancient, covered in dust and rust, but I could still picture it as it once was—faded red, chugging along the fields under the hot Virginia sun.

Mother ran her fingers over the worn metal, then turned back with a smile. “I’ll never forget the sight of you two on this thing. Deacon, bush hogging the pastures, Benji perched behind you, hanging on for dear life.” She laughed, a soft, nostalgic sound. “You two had the best time, always laughing.”

Deacon’s shoulders tensed, and for the briefest moment, something flickered in his expression—something tight and unreadable.

I swallowed, suddenly too aware of how still the barn had become. The only sounds were the faint creak of the rafters and the distant chirping of cicadas.

Then, just as quickly as it came, whatever crossed Deacon’s mind disappeared behind a careful mask. His lips twitched into a small, tight smile.

“I’ll do whatever you want, Miss Maggie.”

A strange feeling settled in my chest—something close to relief.

Deacon grabbed his shirt from where it had been hanging, shaking out the fabric before pulling it over his head. The sweat on his skin made it cling to his torso for a moment, outlining the shape of him before he tugged it into place.

I should’ve looked away.

But I didn’t.

“Benji?” Mother’s voice jolted me from my thoughts. “Are you going to pitch in too?”


Making It Real publishes on February 26, 2025. It is available for a discounted preorder price of 2.99 for the ebook, and on release day the price goes up to 3.99, so lock in the lower price now by preordering the book from your favorite online retailer. It’s available on Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords.

Interview with Benjamin Kensington: Ambition, Redemption, and the Weight of Legacy

Today, we’re sitting down with Benjamin Kensington, a man whose life has been a whirlwind of ambition, love, and self-discovery. From the bustling financial world of New York City to the crumbling halls of his family estate in Montpelier, Virginia, Benjamin’s story is one of transformation, redemption, and wrestling with his own identity.


Interviewer: Benjamin, thank you for joining us today. Let’s start with your return to Montpelier. What’s it like being back at Kensington House after all these years?

Benjamin: It’s… complicated, to say the least. Kensington House is home, but it’s also a reminder of everything I wanted to escape. Coming back has stirred up emotions I thought I’d buried—nostalgia, guilt, pride… and a lot of regret. The house is in shambles, which, in some ways, feels like a metaphor for my life right now.


Interviewer: That’s an interesting comparison. The estate represents your family’s legacy, but it sounds like it also weighs heavily on you. What does Kensington House mean to you?

Benjamin: Growing up, it was a symbol of privilege, but also of obligation. My mother always emphasized the importance of preserving the estate and our family’s name. But I was young, restless, and ambitious. I didn’t want to spend my life fixing old staircases and hosting charity tours. Now, I see the house differently. It’s more than bricks and mortar—it’s history, memories, and potential. Saving it feels less like a burden and more like an opportunity to redeem myself.

Interviewer: Speaking of redemption, your return has also brought you face-to-face with Deacon. How has it been seeing him again after all this time?

Benjamin: (Pauses) Seeing Deacon has been… difficult and wonderful all at once. He’s everything I remember—steadfast, kind, and frustratingly grounded. I know I hurt him when I left, and I regret it every day. He represents a life I could’ve had if I’d made different choices. Being around him again reminds me of what I’ve lost, but also what I might still have, if I’m lucky.


Interviewer: It sounds like Deacon has had a profound impact on you. What do you think is the biggest obstacle between the two of you now?

Benjamin: Trust. I broke it when I chose my career over him, and I can’t blame him for being wary now. I’ve spent so much of my life chasing status and wealth, and I think Deacon sees me as someone who only cares about the surface of things. Proving to him—and to myself—that I’m capable of more is the hardest challenge I’ve ever faced.


Interviewer: Shifting gears a bit, let’s talk about your career. You’ve mentioned how important ambition was to you in the past. Do you still see yourself returning to the world of finance?

Benjamin: Ambition has always been a driving force for me, but I’ve started questioning what that word really means. Does it mean climbing the corporate ladder, or does it mean building something meaningful that lasts? For now, I’m focused on restoring Kensington House. Whether that means turning it into a wedding venue, a museum, or something else entirely, I’m determined to make it a success.


Interviewer: That’s a big shift from the fast-paced world of New York City. How has your time back in Montpelier changed your perspective?

Benjamin: It’s been humbling, honestly. In New York, everything was about appearances—how much you made, what you wore, who you knew. Here, none of that matters. What matters is community, relationships, and legacy. I’ve had to confront parts of myself I didn’t like very much. It’s been uncomfortable, but also necessary.


Interviewer: You’ve mentioned legacy a few times now. What does it mean to you, and how does it play into your current journey?

Benjamin: Legacy used to mean power and prestige—carrying on the Kensington name in a way that turned heads. Now, it’s more about connection. It’s about honoring the people who came before me, like my mother, and creating something worthwhile for the future. Restoring Kensington House isn’t just about the building; it’s about proving to myself and others that I can leave something good behind.


Interviewer: It sounds like you’re on a path of transformation. If you could go back in time and tell your younger self one thing, what would it be?

Benjamin: I’d tell him to slow down. To stop chasing things that only look good on paper and pay more attention to the people who truly matter. Ambition isn’t inherently bad, but when it blinds you to love and authenticity, it can destroy you.


Interviewer: That’s beautifully said. Last question—what do you hope for your future?

Benjamin: I hope to find balance. I want to build a life that honors both my ambition and my heart. Whether that means rebuilding Kensington House, rekindling my relationship with Deacon, or simply finding peace with myself, I just want to be proud of the man I’ve become.


Interviewer: Thank you, Benjamin. Your honesty and vulnerability are inspiring. We wish you the best as you navigate this new chapter of your life.

Benjamin: Thank you. It’s not easy, but I’m learning that the hardest paths are often the most rewarding.


Making It Real publishes on February 26, 2025. It’s available on Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords. Preorder your copy today for the low price of 2.99. On the day it publishes the price goes up to 3.99, so reserve your copy today and save!

Exclusive Interview with Ben Mercer from Making It Wicked

Interviewer: Welcome, Ben! It’s great to have you here. Let’s dive right in—working at a Halloween Scream Park must be quite the experience! How did you end up at Haunted Hollow?

Ben: grinning You could say it was a mix of curiosity and needing some extra cash. I’ve always had a thing for places that give off a weird vibe, and Haunted Hollow? It’s practically buzzing with energy. Plus, I’m all about new experiences, and this place? Yeah, definitely unlike anything I’ve done before.

Interviewer: I bet! So, we’ve heard you’re quite the wanderer. How does working in one spot, even if it’s a scream park, fit with your free-spirited nature?

Ben: laughing I guess you could say I’m more used to moving around than staying put. But even while working here, I’ve found ways to keep things interesting. Haunted Hollow is more than just a gig—it’s a puzzle. There’s this haunted forest, strange noises at night, the stories people tell. It’s like an adventure waiting to happen every day. Keeps me on my toes, you know?

Interviewer: Sounds like the perfect playground for someone with your sense of adventure. Now, let’s get personal—what’s the deal with Theo Hawthorne? Rumor has it you two have some undeniable chemistry.

Ben: grinning mischievously Theo? Yeah, he’s… something else. We’re total opposites. He’s all about planning, making sure every detail is perfect. I kind of just go with the flow. But there’s something about him—beneath all that seriousness, there’s a lot more going on. Plus, getting him to loosen up a bit? That’s my current favorite challenge.

Interviewer: Sounds like sparks are flying! But with your tendency to wander, do you think someone like Theo, who seems more grounded, can keep you interested?

Ben: That’s the million-dollar question, right? Thing is, I’ve always thought love had to be this big, epic thing, full of passion and adventure. But sometimes, it’s the quieter moments that sneak up on you. Theo’s got this way of making me think maybe there’s more to sticking around than I thought. Maybe stability doesn’t have to mean being tied down—it could be about finding someone who gets your need to roam but still offers a reason to come back.

Interviewer: That’s a great way to put it. Speaking of challenges, you and Theo stumbled upon a restless spirit at Haunted Hollow. How’s that been?

Ben: leaning in with a gleam in his eye That’s where things get wild. This spirit? He’s not just any ghost. There’s a whole tragic story behind him, something that ties into the park’s history. Theo and I are trying to piece it all together before things get out of hand. It’s dangerous, sure, but it’s also kind of exciting—figuring out his story, what he wants. I just hope we can help him move on before something bad happens.

Interviewer: It sounds like you’re diving deep into something darker than usual. Does dealing with the supernatural freak you out at all?

Ben: You’d think it would, right? But nah, not really. It’s more intriguing than terrifying. There’s something about the unknown that draws me in, even if it’s creepy or unsettling. Plus, I’ve always wondered if there’s more out there than we can see. Meeting a ghost? Just another adventure on the list. And hey, I’m not doing it alone—Theo’s got my back, even if he pretends not to believe in all this stuff half the time.

Interviewer: What’s next for you, Ben? Do you see yourself staying at Haunted Hollow after Halloween, or is there another adventure calling your name?

Ben: Oh, there’s always another adventure calling. Whether it’s here or somewhere far off, I can’t say yet. But Haunted Hollow feels like it’s got more secrets to reveal, so I might stick around a little longer.

Interviewer: laughs I think a lot of people are rooting for that! Thanks for chatting with us, Ben. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.

Ben: Anytime. And trust me, wherever it is, it’s gonna be one hell of a ride.

Making It Wicked releases on October 30, 2024! It’s available at Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords.

An Interview with Maxwell “Max” Coleman: RVA’s Food Critic on Flavor, Recovery, and Rebirth

As the heart of Richmond’s culinary scene continues to beat stronger than ever, it’s hard to ignore one of the city’s rising stars in food journalism, Maxwell “Max” Coleman. A food blogger with a loyal following and a discerning palate, Max has made waves not just for his honest takes on local cuisine but for his own deeply personal journey of healing and transformation. Today, I sat down with Max to talk about food, life, and what’s next for this talented writer as he makes RVA his new home.

Q: Max, first of all, welcome to RVA! You’ve made quite a name for yourself in the food world, but before we get into all of that, let’s talk about your decision to move to Richmond. Why now, and why here?

Max Coleman: Thanks! Richmond has always had a special place in my heart. It’s not just the food scene, although that’s a big part of it. After everything I went through—recovering from my injuries, dealing with addiction, and getting back on my feet—I wanted a fresh start. RVA is close to where I grew up in Norfolk, but it also gives me the chance to carve out something new, you know? Plus, there’s just so much happening here in terms of food and culture, I couldn’t resist.

Q: You mentioned your recovery, and I know that’s a big part of your story. Can you share a little more about that journey?

Max Coleman: Yeah, it’s definitely been a wild ride. After the Unite The Right protest in Charlottesville where I got injured, things took a dark turn for me. The physical pain was one thing, but the emotional toll—that’s what really hit me. I got caught up in prescription pills, which started out as a way to manage the pain but became something much more destructive. There were moments I didn’t know if I’d make it out, to be honest.

But food became my lifeline. Writing about food, photographing it, experiencing it—it gave me something positive to focus on. It’s strange to say, but in a way, food saved me. That’s why I’m so passionate about it. It’s more than just a meal for me; it’s part of my healing.

Q: That’s powerful, Max. How has your personal journey shaped the way you approach food blogging?

Max Coleman: It’s all about being present for me. I used to be the guy who’d chase the next big trend, but now, I’m more interested in stories—both on the plate and behind it. Food is an expression of culture, of history, of love, and sometimes, even of pain. I like to dig deep into that, into why a chef chooses certain ingredients or why a dish matters to a community. And that’s why I focus so much on local chefs and hidden gems—there’s a richness to be found in the stories behind the food.

Q: Speaking of your blog, it’s been growing steadily! What’s next for you in terms of content creation and the overall direction of your platform?

Max Coleman: Oh man, I’ve got some exciting things in the works. I just moved into this amazing loft in Shockoe Bottom, and part of why I’m here is to take my blog and my videos to the next level. I’ve been doing all the filming and editing myself, but now I’m working with a professional videographer based in Church Hill. This woman knows her stuff—she’s going to help me create some really dynamic video content that captures not just the food, but the entire dining experience.

I want to highlight more of the “unseen” parts of the culinary world. Like, what goes into prepping for a pop-up? What does a chef feel in the moments before service? I want my readers—and viewers—to get that behind-the-scenes look.

Q: It sounds like there’s a lot on the horizon. Do you have any advice for aspiring food writers, especially those who may be struggling with personal challenges?

Max Coleman: My biggest piece of advice? Don’t give up on yourself. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. When I was at my lowest, I didn’t see a way forward, but there was one—I just had to keep moving, even when it felt impossible. Whether you’re dealing with addiction, mental health struggles, or even just the day-to-day grind, it’s okay to take things one step at a time.

And when it comes to food writing specifically—stay curious. Always. There’s always something new to learn, a new flavor to discover, or a new story to tell. That’s what keeps me going, even on the tough days.

Q: Final question—if you could only eat one dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Max Coleman (laughing): Oh, that’s cruel! But okay, if I had to choose—it’d be tacos. There’s just so much you can do with them, and they’re a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and creativity.

Read Electric today and get to know Max and Daniel, and how love mends what life has broken. Electric is available at Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords.


The Journey of Writing ‘Serve’: From Concept to Bestseller

I’m excited to share the journey of writing my second novel, ‘Serve,’ which holds a special place in my heart. As a huge tennis fan, drawing inspiration from my favorite players, Roger Federer and Carlos Alcaraz, was a dream come true. ‘Serve’ was a labor of love, born from my passion for the sport and my desire to tell a compelling MM romance story. Let’s dive into how this book came to life!

The Inspiration Behind ‘Serve’

‘Serve’ was my second novel, and it was a bit of a struggle to write as I was still learning the craft. Now, with over two dozen novels published, writing has become much easier. The main character, Tyler Florman, was inspired by none other than the legendary Roger Federer. His grace, talent, and poise on the court were qualities I wanted to imbue in Tyler. And, I have always had a huge crush on him.

The Blurb

Here’s a little taste of ‘Serve’:

No More Secrets

Everything Tennis champion Tyler Florman touches turns to gold. Winning is easy, but fame comes with a price. Living in the closet in exchange for riches and honors was second nature, until he met the younger man who conquered his heart.

Chip Carter has turned a childhood trauma into a career saving lives. As an EMT, he’s never found time for love, but all of that could be about to change when he rescues the famous, older athlete who steals his heart for the very first time.

Avoiding love is second nature for both men, until they meet that special someone worth fighting for. The odds against Chip and Tyler look insurmountable. But can Tyler leave the safety of the closet, and win Chip’s love at the same time?

Welcome to Hidden Creek, Texas, where the heart knows what it wants, and where true love lives happily ever after. Every Men of Hidden Creek novel can be read on its own, but keep an eye out for familiar faces around town! This book contains an eccentric blue-haired aunt, a spurned blackmailer, and a whole lot of balls.

The Struggle and Triumph

Writing ‘Serve’ was a challenging yet rewarding experience. I was still honing my skills as a writer, and every page felt like a new learning opportunity. There were moments of doubt and frustration, but my love for the characters and their story kept me going. Tyler and Chip’s journey from avoiding love to finding it in each other was a powerful narrative that I was determined to tell.

Learning the Craft

Over the years, with each novel I’ve written, my process has evolved. Writing has become more intuitive, and I’ve gained confidence in my storytelling abilities. ‘Serve’ was a pivotal moment in my career, teaching me the importance of perseverance and passion.

What’s Next?

I’m excited to continue exploring new stories and characters. Each book is a new adventure, and I can’t wait to share more with you all. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me! I’m currently working on the second book in the Burning Hearts series, Electric.

Stay tuned for more updates and behind-the-scenes looks into my upcoming projects. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to me. To preorder Electric, click here and you’ll be taken to your favorite online bookstore.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, the novel Serve has a unique book cover on Amazon, since it was originally part of an exclusive Amazon series. To read Serve, you can purchase it from Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, and Amazon.

Inspired by “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”: The Creation of “Suddenly Single”

If you’re a fan of classic romantic comedies, you might remember the delightful 1941 film “Mr. and Mrs. Smith” directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Yes, you read that right—Hitchcock, the master of suspense, took a surprising detour into the world of screwball comedy with this gem starring Carole Lombard and Robert Montgomery. The story of a couple who discover their marriage isn’t legally valid struck a chord with me and inspired my novel, “Suddenly Single.”

In “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” the comedic chaos that ensues after the couple learns their marriage certificate is a dud provides the perfect blend of humor and heart. The movie’s playful take on love, commitment, and the trials of marital life got me thinking about the concept of sudden singleness and its impact on relationships.

That’s where the idea for “Suddenly Single” came from. I wanted to explore what happens when life throws an unexpected curveball at a seemingly stable couple. The novel delves into the lives of Asher Bartholomew Yates and Carter Camden Yates, who must navigate the emotional rollercoaster of discovering they aren’t legally married and the personal growth that comes from such a revelation.

Asher comes from one of the first families of Virginia and has just made partner in the family law firm. He went to the right schools, belongs to the right clubs, and like his peers, is happily married—most of the time. The love of his life, Carter, is a handful on the best of days, but Carter’s unwavering devotion and unpredictable antics ensure he will always have Asher’s heart.

Carter is the most successful interior designer in Richmond and is married to an up-and-coming lawyer who looks perfect on his arm. His talents are as colorful as his personality, and he’s the star of any room he enters. He loves Asher more than life itself and hasn’t once regretted getting married.

Out of the blue, a legal mixup jeopardizes everything. After three years of ups and downs, the couple discovers they’re not legally wed. Will this bombshell tear them apart, or will true love win once and for all?

Adding to the chaos is their crazy family: an alcoholic mother, a deranged maid, and a stoner old lady, who all bring their own flavor of drama and humor to the mix. Carter’s theatrical reactions and Asher’s attempts to maintain sanity create a whirlwind of laughs and touching moments.

“Suddenly Single” is the third book in the Southern Discomfort series. It is a gay romantic comedy filled with sweet tea and sour words, served alongside men discovering their deepest desires. This novel has it all: a couple on the rocks, a second chance at happiness, and a love that refuses to die. So relax on your porch swing with a mint julep and a slice of pecan pie, and enjoy the journey to true love.

You can purchase Suddenly Single from Apple Books, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Google Play Books, and Kobo. Oh, and for the month of July, Suddenly Single is 50% off exclusively on Smashwords.

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.