Tag Archives: gay romance

From Stars to Stories: Using Astrology to Shape Your Characters

Astrological Archetypes: Crafting Characters with Zodiac Precision

Before I begin, I want to clarify something. I actually don’t believe in astrology, but I’ve found it to be extremely useful when I’m creating characters. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, I’m a libra. We don’t believe anything, lol.

Creating memorable and multi-dimensional characters is a vital aspect of storytelling. One unique and effective method is to use astrology to develop your characters. Astrology offers a rich tapestry of traits, motivations, and archetypes that can bring depth and realism to your narrative. Here’s how you can use astrological signs to shape your characters and make them resonate with readers.

Understanding Zodiac Archetypes

The zodiac comprises twelve signs, each with distinct characteristics and personality traits. These signs are divided into four elements—Fire, Earth, Air, and Water—each element representing different fundamental qualities. Here’s a brief overview:

  1. Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius): These characters are passionate, dynamic, and often impulsive. They can be leaders, adventurers, or creatives, driven by enthusiasm and a desire for action.
  2. Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn): Grounded and practical, Earth signs are reliable and detail-oriented. They make great planners, workers, and providers, often seeking stability and material success.
  3. Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius): Intellectual and communicative, Air signs are curious and sociable. They thrive on ideas, conversation, and social interactions, often serving as mediators, thinkers, or innovators.
  4. Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces): Emotional and intuitive, Water signs are deeply connected to their feelings and those of others. They excel in roles requiring empathy and imagination, such as caretakers, artists, and healers.

Building Characters with Zodiac Signs

  1. Aries (March 21 – April 19): An Aries character is bold, confident, and always up for a challenge. They might be a fearless leader, a competitive athlete, or an entrepreneur starting a new venture. Their impulsive nature can lead to conflicts, but their courage and determination are unmatched.
  2. Taurus (April 20 – May 20): Taurus characters are dependable, patient, and have a love for beauty and comfort. They could be a chef, an artist, or a financial advisor. While they are incredibly loyal, their stubbornness can be a source of tension.
  3. Gemini (May 21 – June 20): Gemini characters are adaptable, witty, and curious. They make excellent journalists, teachers, or entertainers. Their dual nature allows them to see multiple perspectives, though they can sometimes come off as indecisive or superficial.
  4. Cancer (June 21 – July 22): Cancers are nurturing, sensitive, and protective. They might be a devoted parent, a nurse, or a counselor. Their deep emotional insights make them empathetic, but their tendency to retreat into their shell can be a challenge. In my upcoming novel Ignited, Finn McKenna is a Cancer!
  5. Leo (July 23 – August 22): Leo characters are charismatic, proud, and love to be in the spotlight. They could be actors, politicians, or leaders. Their natural magnetism draws people to them, but their need for admiration can sometimes lead to arrogance.
  6. Virgo (August 23 – September 22): Virgos are analytical, meticulous, and service-oriented. They might be a doctor, editor, or scientist. Their attention to detail is unparalleled, though they can be overly critical or perfectionistic.
  7. Libra (September 23 – October 22): Libra characters are diplomatic, charming, and value harmony. They make great lawyers, diplomats, or artists. Their desire for balance and fairness is commendable, but their indecision can be frustrating.
  8. Scorpio (October 23 – November 21): Scorpios are intense, passionate, and often mysterious. They might be detectives, psychologists, or researchers. Their depth and determination are their strengths, though their secretive nature can create trust issues.
  9. Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21): Sagittarius characters are adventurous, optimistic, and philosophical. They could be travel writers, professors, or explorers. Their love for freedom and truth is inspiring, but their bluntness can sometimes be off-putting.
  10. Capricorn (December 22 – January 19): Capricorns are disciplined, ambitious, and practical. They might be CEOs, engineers, or architects. Their work ethic and perseverance are admirable, though their rigidity can be a drawback. In my upcoming novel Ignited, Alex Harrington is a Capricorn!
  11. Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Aquarians are innovative, independent, and humanitarian. They could be scientists, activists, or inventors. Their vision for a better future is compelling, but their detachment can make them seem aloof.
  12. Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Pisces characters are compassionate, artistic, and intuitive. They might be musicians, therapists, or writers. Their empathy and creativity are their gifts, though their tendency to escape reality can be problematic.

Applying Astrology to Your Characters

To effectively integrate astrology into your character development:

  • Choose a Sign: Start by selecting a zodiac sign that aligns with your character’s core traits. Consider how their element (Fire, Earth, Air, Water) influences their behavior and interactions.
  • Explore the Birth Chart: Delve deeper by examining the character’s sun, moon, and rising signs. The sun sign reflects their core personality, the moon sign their emotional nature, and the rising sign their outward behavior.
  • Conflict and Growth: Use the negative traits associated with the sign to create internal conflicts and opportunities for character growth. How do they overcome their weaknesses?
  • Interpersonal Dynamics: Consider how their sign interacts with others. What signs complement or clash with theirs? This can add layers to relationships and plotlines.

Conclusion

Using astrology to develop characters adds a layer of depth and realism that can make your stories more engaging and relatable. By understanding and incorporating zodiac archetypes, you can create characters that resonate with readers on a profound level. So next time you’re crafting a character, look to the stars for inspiration. You might just find the perfect traits to bring your characters to life. If you’re considering writing a book, I highly recommend this one- The Five Pillars of Astrology by Monique Wagner. Excellent book that is useful for creating characters, and if you believe in astrology, you’ll get a lot out of it personally.

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.”

🔥 Don’t miss out on the sizzling romance and intense emotions of Ignited! Be among the first to experience the passion and drama of the Burning Hearts series by preordering your copy today from your favorite online retailer. Click here to reserve your copy.

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!

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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.

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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.