Friday, December 31, 2010

Love for The Angel of Thirteenth Street, The Match Before Christmas, The Wish, and The Telling

The new year is ringing in on a happy note for me. Two book review sites have listed reviewer's top picks of the year, and  The Angel of Thirteenth Street, The Match Before Christmas, The Wish, and The Telling all found ways into their hearts.

Here's the link at Michele 'N Jeff Reviews:


Here's the link for Reviews by Jessewave:

The Match Before Christmas received awesome reviews from Cryselle's Craziness, ReviewsbyJessewave, Michele 'N Jeff Reviews, Stumbling Over Chaos, and Brief Encounters, and The Angel of Thirteenth Street got some love from Elisa Rolle today. What a way to end the year!


I'm thrilled, especially to have my stories keeping such great company, but also scared that my next book won't measure up. Here's hoping for a great literary 2011.

Happy New Year, ya'll!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and an awesome New Year. May your fondest dreams come true...



Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Free, Totally Fabulous Read

I just read a freaking amazing story so good that I can't believe it's free! I laughed at every single reference to "much." What a delightful Christmas short story that I simply cannot recommend highly enough. Here's the link to Secret Santa Surprise by Tam.

If you love it as much as I did, and want to let the author know, here's the link to the story on Goodreads, where you can rate and/or leave comments.

Several prompts were involved, and Tam tackled them all beautifully.

Enjoy!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

The Twelve Gays of Christmas

I loved this and snagged it off Devon Rhodes site. She knows one of the dancers. Enjoy! I know I sure did.

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Promo Op for M/M Authors and an Opportunity for Readers

Authors, wanna play Santa for some lucky reader? Reviews by Jessewave is looking for authors to donate a book (or two or more) to their Christmas Eve giveaway.

Just post the name of the book(s) you're willing to donate in the comments along with your email address. Prospective winners will be watching this post, making their lists and checking them twice. So far that post has had nearly 500 views, so it's a chance for a little recognition while making some reader's dreams come true.

Follow this link to Reviews by Jessewave:

Readers, swing by, read the rules and be ready to cash in on the generosity of the Santa Authors. So many great books have already been offered, and the list keeps on growing.

The Match Before Christmas is out!!!

My Christmas shot, at 14,000 words was released today from Torquere Press, and is already getting some great reviews at Goodreads from Chris of Stumbling Over Chaos and Lisa from Michele N Jeff Reviews. Read here:

Tam at Brief Encounters gave it an A+. Read review here:

Here's the blurb:
Candlelight, mistletoe, gaily wrapped packages beneath a trimmed tree, and someone to share it with. That’s all Barry Richards wants for Christmas. Desperate for a traditional holiday, he takes drastic measures. Creating a profile on “GetaDate.com,” he hopes to find the perfect man in a matter of weeks. One date after another goes sour, while all around him friends are falling in love, and Barry starts to lose faith.

The first snow falls and the world is filled with seasonal cheer, all except for Barry, for whom time is running out. Facing the prospect of a lonely holiday, he tries just once more to make The Match Before Christmas.

Here's an excerpt:
It took a full week and lots of careful screening before he was ready to try someone suggested by the dating service again. Bobby was a bit younger than Barry really wanted, twenty-two, but they shared a lot of the same interests. They met at a coffee shop downtown, followed by a movie, an action-adventure thriller. This date was quiet, saying more with expressions than with words, and very touchy-feely, which didn't bother Barry at all, being a cuddler at heart.

When the lights went down in the theater, Bobby laced his fingers with Barry's, holding on throughout the film. Barry found it sweet. Afterward, Bobby suggested a favorite Chinese restaurant. Things were going fine until, "Jeff used to bring me here."

"Jeff?"

"My ex-boyfriend."

"Oh." While Barry would never dream of mentioning an ex on a first date, Bobby was young and probably didn't know better.

Barry ordered sweet and sour chicken. Bobby sniffled. "That was Jeff's favorite, too." Unshed tears filled his eyes. If he'd left it at that, they still might have had a chance. However, Jeff's name came up when Barry ordered green tea, requested extra sweet and sour sauce, and even when Barry said Bobby's name.

"Jeff used to say my name like you do."

Huh? How many ways could one say, "Bobby"?

The coup de grâce of the budding acquaintance occurred when, after four hours together, Bobby asked, "What was your name again?" Barry started to say "Jeff" for spite. At least that the guy could probably remember.

At the end of the meal, Barry's curiosity finally got the better of him. "What happened to Jeff, if you don't mind my asking?"

"Oh, he was found beaten to death in his apartment a month ago. But don't worry; I've been cleared as a suspect."

Barry raised his hand, frantically gesturing for the server. "Check, please!"
Find story here:

Happy Holidays, ya'll!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

Meet Kevin

Over the past few months Torquere has posted some prompt challenges; fun little contests where they give  words and entrants have to come up with a story of 200 words or less. That's how Kevin the satyr was born. He's been with me for three challenges now (two of which won), and today I found a picture that is just so him. Enjoy!



Challenge 1 words: urn, guitar, model:

Kevin leaned into the giant urn, seeking whatever shelter he could find. It earned him an irritated huff from the photographer.

“How many times do I have to tell you: don’t hide the goods!”

“But…but…I’m naked!” Kevin whined.

The photographer rolled his eyes heavenward. “You’re just now figuring this
out? It’s in the contract.” Under his breath he muttered, “Dumb model.”

“I thought I’d pose with my guitar, not bare-assed for the world to see. I’m a musician, not a stripper.”

“I’m afraid that’s been over-done, the peeky-boo, I-nearly-see-you, theme. Our calendar will be different. Artful nudes are sure to gather attention. Besides, it’s for charity.”

Kevin adjusted his crown of grape leaves, shuffling from hoof to hoof. “While I’m all for finding loving homes for stray puppies and kitties, are you sure that Satyrs Gone Wild is a proper theme to raise money for homeless pets?”


Challenge 2 words: octave, stethoscope, camera: 

Niles groaned. Since meeting Kevin his life had become an adventure. Why he'd fallen for a satyr was beyond him, but ever since Kev had shown up at his studio to participate in Satyr's Gone Wild, a nude calendar project to raise money for homeless pets, Niles had been hooked. Once the teeth grinding had stopped, that is.

Teaching the country bumpkin about city life was a bit nerve wracking. So far, Niles had explained that you didn't "turn on" a TV by stroking it and whispering sweet nothings, and you didn't "turn it off" by showing it pictures of Great Aunt Maude in a two-piece. Those incidents looked to pale in comparison with this one. "Exactly what are you doing with those?" Niles inquired, voice rising a full octave. What had been misunderstood this time?

Kevin held out a mask, surgical gloves, and stethoscope. "Well, I heard today that playing doctor was fun." Kevin's eyes were downcast, and he shuffled from hoof to hoof, a typical nervous gesture.

Picturing his lover lying on an examination table, spread out, inspired ideas. Niles grinned, reminded of why he loved Kevin's naivete. "Stay right here," he said. "I'll go get my camera."

Challenge 3 words: violet, trampoline, lead:

"Kevin? Kevin!" Niles searched frantically for his lover. Lately the satyr spent more and more time staring at the distant hills, now covered in spring violets. Was Kevin homesick?

Niles once thought his life perfect. One afternoon with the country-come-to-town satyr showed him what was missing. Though it would break his heart, he loved Kevin, and valued the man's happiness above his own. Should Kev want to go, Niles couldn't hold him back.

A lump in his throat and an ache in his heart, he finally spotted a familiar head of curly hair in the back yard. Whooshing out a sigh of relief, he rushed to Kevin's side.

"What 'cha doing?" He attempted nonchalance.

"Watching."

Following Kevin's line of sight, Niles spotted two kids next door, bouncing on a trampoline.

"They remind me of young satyrs frolicking in the meadow," Kevin murmured, head falling to Niles' shoulder. "I miss my brothers, my mother, my father."

The pain returned to Niles' heart. "You want to go back, don't you?"

He barely heard the whispered, "Yes."

This was it. The moment he'd dreaded. Niles steeled himself to do the right thing, then Kevin asked, "Come with me?"

Without hesitation, Niles replied, "Lead on."

Saturday, December 11, 2010

Another Giveaway for The Match Before Christmas

That wonderful new short story review site, Brief Encounters (starring those awesome reviewers, Tam and Jenre), is hosting a giveaway for a copy of my upcoming short story (14,000 words), The Match Before Christmas. Just comment, telling them your favorite Christmas song, to be in the running. The story comes out December 15th, and if you're the winner, you'll receive your prize then. Tam and Jenre will also post a video of the winner's favorite song.

Good luck!

Here's the link:

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Love Shown to The Wish, The Angel of 13th Street, and Duet




Thanks to Elisa Rolle at My Reviews and Ramblings for hosting the 2010 Rainbow Awards. Thanks also the judges; I'm sure their jobs weren't easy.

A big congratulations to all the winners, too numerous to mention here. Here's the link to Elisa's site:

I'm thrilled (and a bit in shock) that my own book, The Wish ranked third for Best Gay Contemporary Romance, with The Angel of 13th Street gaining an Honorable Mention in the same category. Angel tied for sixth place.

In the Best Gay Paranormal/Horror category, Duet received an Honorable Mention, placing sixth.

And for the Cover Contest, the cover for The Angel of 13th Street, created by the talented Alessia Brio, received sixth place Honorable Mention. Congratulations, Alessia.

I've added many new books to my ever growing TBR pile during this competition, and am pleased to have had work included in it. Many thanks again to Elisa Rolle and all the folks that worked so hard to make the Rainbow Awards possible.

Saturday, December 4, 2010

Upcoming Release and Giveaways

On December fifteenth, Torquere Press will release my Christmas Single Shot, The Match Before Christmas. I normally like to kick off a new publication by offering chances to win a copy.

Chris at Stumbling Over Chaos is hosting the first contest. Beginning December seventh, and continuing until December fourteenth at 7:00 pm CST, all you have to do is leave a comment on the The Match Before Christmas posting to be in the running for a free copy, deliverable upon release by Torquere.

Stumbling Over Chaos is a great place to visit, lots of good info, great reviews, cute kitties, and giveaways. 
Here is the link to the post on her site

Next Saturday, December eleventh, I'll be hosting the Torquere Press LiveJournal. We'll chitchat, have a few discussions, I'll post blurbs and excerpts from the new story, and one lucky commenter will win a copy.

Here's the link, but remember, I won't be there until the eleventh, and you'll get your prize after release on the fifteenth. It's another great place to check out and chat with your favorite Torquere authors, many who, like myself, post contests for free stories. Check it out!

These contests are open only to those over the legal age to possess such materials, and story is m/m. If that's not your thing, you may wanna pass on this.

Friday, December 3, 2010

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round 15 - Final Round

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest has entered it's final round, with fifteen covers left. This week, voting will be handled differently. All voters must vote on three covers, no more, no less, and they'll vote by leaving a comment, stating their three selections.

This will be so hard, because there's so many covers in this round that I love. There's also many books represented that I do intend to read in the future. Thanks to the contest, I now know the artist behind the gorgeous images that caught my eye.

Many thanks to Elisa Rolle for hosting this competition. Be sure to show your support for your favorite covers, and the artist who created them, but voting on her site.

Click here to vote.

Thanks again, Elisa, the celebrity judge panel (squueeeee!), and all the wonderfully talented artists who are due for some recognition.

Thursday, December 2, 2010

Coming Soon: Settling the Score

Whew! I finally submitted my revised manuscript to the good folks at Torquere Press and Settling the Score is on track for a March release. This book is a bit of a departure for me - nobody dies. Not even once. No one even gets sick. Well, that's not entirely true, but I don't want to spoil anything.

I'm still working on the blurb, and will post it soon. You'd think it a relief to finally get the story in the hands of my editor, but now I'm thinking, "Should I have said...", "did I make that point clear enough..." etc. Writer's nerves. Sigh.

With Settling safely in the pipeline, time to move on to my next project: a shifter novella. And the sequel to The Telling is screaming at me to get to work. So many words, so little time.

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Cryselle's Craziness: Same Time Next Year

Cryselle's Craziness: Same Time Next Year: "Jerome and Greg played on the dirt road halfway between their homes when they were kids, and found much better games to play there when the..."

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round 14 of 15

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest is now in round 14, with just one more round to go. While many of my favorite covers have been eliminated, I'm pleased to see the ones still in the running. Only fifteen covers remain, and this week you're allowed to vote for only ten. It was a tough decision for me, let me tell ya.

I am absolutely thrilled that Alessia Brio's creation for my own book, The Angel of 13th Street, made it this far. I love her work. Equally thrilling is the fact that the celebrity judge panel, made up of Dylan Rosser, photgrapher; Jack Mackenroth, fashion designer; and Jesse Archer, actor and screenwriter, voted for Angel. 

Support you favorite covers, giving the artists responsible some well-deserved recognition, by voting.

Here's the link to the poll:

Here's where you can see all the awesome covers:

Saturday, November 27, 2010

My dear friend P.D. Singer has a new release today from Torquere Press, it's a short story called Storm on the Mountain. It continues to follow Mark and Allan from Fall Down the Mountain. Bought it, read it, loved it.

Find it here:

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round 13

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest is now in round thirteen of fifteen. Just twenty covers remaining. This week, you're allowed to vote for only fifteen. Decisions, decisions. Some of my favorites didn't make this round, but I'm very happy for the ones that did, including the cover for my book, The Angel of 13th Street.

It's down to the wire, so don't forget to vote your favorites on to the next round.

Vote here!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Silly Story

I entered a prompt fic a year ago, when only the Pirate's Gamble had been released, starring some of my favorite characters. It's pure silliness, and if you've read my stories, you'll recognize some of the cast. The words I was given are: chauffeur, sweep, apple, alpaca, Martians, and vegemite,  pumpkins, plaster, promote, pummel,  permanganate, John F. Kennedy Airport, payroll, champion, hair,  leaves, laptop, luminous, target, gift card, water aerobics,  sandtrap, clipboard, Corn Flakes, hand, foot, tongue, lips, ear, teeth, knee, and shoulder. If memory serves, I did manage to get most of these into the story.

Here goes:

“You look like a pair of penguins!” Anton said, holding open the door of the Benz.

Paul looked down at his tuxedo, grinned, and replied, “I couldn’t agree more.”

Alex just glared and crawled inside the vehicle. “I don’t see the point of dressing up or of taking the car. It’s a virtual party held on that infernal woman’s laptop, for crying out loud.”

Patting his partner’s knee reassuringly, Paul replied, “That infernal woman created us. I think you should be nice to her.”

Looking into the backseat via the rear-view mirror, the chauffeur chimed in, “Yeah, boss. Don’t piss her off.”

Noticing the fallen leaves gathered around the pumpkins Martha had used to decorate the lawn, Alex shot back, “Before you decide which of us to champion, I think I should remind you just who signs the payroll checks each week. Um, Anton? Plan of doing some raking any time soon?” he asked, changing the subject.

***

David held Ian’s hand while they waited for their plane to take off from John F. Kennedy Airport, marveling that he no longer pulled away from such public displays. It was much cooler here than in Jamaica, and he wrapped his alpaca jacket tighter around himself, wishing he’d listened to Ian and bought a toboggan. His bald head was freezing!

Looking across the narrow aisle he saw another couple arguing with the flight attendant, telling her that that they’d hold onto their violin cases themselves, thank you very much. There was an almost offended tone to the younger man’s words, as though the woman had suggested taking away his child instead of a musical instrument.

Glancing at his lover Ian, who had his nose buried in Archaeological Finds of the Twenty-First Century, he sighed. As much as he loved the man, he was getting tired of the obsessive need to promote that book, two chapters of which were dedicated to their exploits. As he studied his lover, however, he noticed similarities between him and the violinist sitting adjacent. They both had long, auburn hair, drawn back in tail at the nape, and luminous green eyes, though the stranger was a few years younger.

Next to the young man was a tall, imposing figure, with a dark, well trimmed beard and moustache. His long, jet black hair fell unfettered over his shoulders. It suddenly occurred to David that they were familiar.

“Excuse me,” he began. “Didn’t we meet before?”

The young red-head looked David over and smiled. “Why yes, we did! A cut-and-paste venture gone wrong. Imagine our surprise when The Naughty Maid suddenly appeared in the Highlands! Ms. Winters really needs to avoid her keyboard once she hits that third glass of wine.”

At the mention of his ship Ian looked up. “Aillil? Malcolm? It’s great to see you again! Did those poor villagers ever recover from the shock of being invaded by pirates?”

Aillil glared at him, clutching his violin case tight. “This is not an artifact,” he growled.

Ian sighed. “I’ve apologized for that, okay? I promise not to try again.”

Malcolm patted Aillil’s hand. “He said he was sorry, just let it go.” The roaring of the engines interrupted them, causing a look of panic to cross the handsome Aillil’s face. “Oh, look, love, we’re leaving the ground,” Malcolm said. He leaned in to whisper, “It’s technology; you know how you love technology.”

To David and Ian he said, “Forgive him. Until last year he didn’t even know what a plane was.”

Ignoring the man who was staring in rapt awe out the window, David asked, “So you don’t mind being summoned at the queen’s command?”

“Not at all.” Malcolm chuckled. “You see, it’s kind of an anniversary for us.”

“I’d like to pummel her myself,” David replied. “Making me leave home for something so ridiculous as a virtual party.”

Ian squeezed his lover’s arm. “Just remember love, she created that home, she could take it away.”

David “harrumphed,” but otherwise remained quiet.

***

Jeremy stared at the man standing before him with a look normally reserved for invasion by Martians. “He’s not coming with us, is he?” He looked up at Noah with disbelief.

Noah sighed. Having such a young, inexperienced lover did have drawbacks -- like jealously of old flames. It didn’t matter that Willie was well and truly out of the picture now. “Well, he was invited,” Noah explained. The look in his lover’s eyes said that he still didn’t like it. “It could have been worse,” Noah reminded Jeremy. “She could have invited Trent.”

Jeremy mulled the words over, plastering on a fake smile. “When you put it that way.” Turning to the pimp who'd once tried to recruit him, he said, “Come on, Willie, let’s go.”

***
“Permanganate? What’s wrong with apple? We always used apple before.” Marco stared in disbelief at his partner, hands on his leather-clad hips, tapping his foot in agitation. “Betty, you do realize you’re being such a….a woman!”

“Yeah, well, I’m entitled,” she said, fighting to breathe in her tight corset. “I’m the only female lead character the mistress has ever written! Besides, it beats your safe word: vegemite.” She stuck her tongue out at him.

Marco rubbed his hand over his face, gritting his teeth. As much as he loved this woman, sometimes he wished Eden Winters hadn’t entered that Dom/sub het challenge that brought both he and Betty to life.

Tossing his whip aside, Marco said, “Well, it’s a moot point anyway. No time to play now. We have to get ready for this ridiculous party of hers.”

Betty smiled broadly. “I get to wear my new boots! And I’m gonna be the only woman there!”

Her smile fell when Marco shot back, “Yes, my dear. Too bad I’ll be the only man there who’s interested in women.”

***

With an elegant sweep of his hand Willie the pimp said, “After you,” taking the opportunity to ogle Noah’s ass when he passed, eyes glued to their target.

Bernard stood just inside the elegant ballroom, clipboard in hand. “Savior of young rent-boys, check; homeless kid, wise beyond his years, check; smarmy, big-city pimp, who can’t quite shake his southern roots, check,” he said, making little tick marks on a chart.

Betty and Marco came through the door next, still arguing, “Well, at least we could have picked up a gift card for her. It’s rude to attend a party without a gift for the hostess,” she hissed.

“Big-footed harpy, check,” Bernard intoned. “Creepy little foreign dude, check.”

“Oh, look! Cornflakes,” Marco said, allowing the elegantly set buffet to distract his lover -- food never failed to capture her attention.

“Those aren’t cornflakes, they’re crackers,” she replied, dipping one in green goo before popping it into her mouth. “Yum! Jalapeno jelly!”

Alex, Paul, and Anton, entered next, Anton making a beeline for the kitchen to see if Thierry was there.

Bernard prudently kept his comments to himself, checking their names off quietly.
“Good evening, Bernard,” Alex said. “Go ahead and cross off Aillil and Malcolm. They’re out in the hallways getting frisky. Aillil muttered something about an enforced abstinence and making up for lost time.”

Bernard’s pen scratched again paper. “Highland keep-haunting specter, check; reincarnated teacher, who takes three times to get it right, check.”

Alex turned to find Paul in deep discussion about water aerobics with Betty, who chewed quickly and spoke between bites as though she’d never seen food before.

“Well, that appears to be all then,” Bernard said as David and Ian entered the room, adding under his breath, “stuffy archaeologist, check; pirate captain, check.”

***

Regardless of their feelings for her, the author was nervous. There they were: some of her favorite couples. They thought it was she who brought them together, never understanding that it was the other way around.

Watching from behind a door, she saw Paul feeding Alex bits of melon from the buffet with one hand, while caressing his shoulder with the other. The once-arrogant man had never appeared so young or carefree as he did with the down-to-earth Paul. Each had been isolated in their loneliness until others had united them. The author had merely watched, recording their story for readers to share. She wasn’t their creator, only their messenger.

Next she turned her eyes to Aillil, kilt disheveled by his impromptu lovemaking with Malcolm in the hall. Just like she’d suspected would happen, the Lost Lairds opened their instrument cases and tuned their violins. Shaking her head, the author laughed at the silly notion that she’d had anything to do with their happy ending.

Betty and Marco, though they bickered constantly, shared a love few would ever find, for when they looked at each other they saw physical perfection where others would find none. She shook her head at the irony of their first meeting in the cafe.

Behind the closed kitchen door she heard mumbled French obscenities and heady moans. Ah, so Anton had found Thierry. It seemed that “opposites attracting” thing was true after all. Nobody but she seemed to notice the sound of pots and pans clanging to the floor. Hmmm…they must being putting the prep table to good use. That might be a good short story…

Turning her mind to another pair of opposites, she watched as Ian’s lips found David’s ear. Once David would have done anything to hide what he felt for his partner, but now he and Ian had eyes only for each other. The stuffy professor laughed at whatever was said, then the pair slipped quietly from the room for some alone time. Well, they deserved it. Pirating probably left few opportunities for intimacy.

Over in a far corner Noah’s eyes darted around the room to be sure no one was watching before he bent to kiss Jeremy, who flashed a wicked grin and wrapped himself around the older man like a starfish, refusing to let go. She spared a thought at how Jeremy’s going off to college would affect them. Seeing them now, so in love, reassured her that they would survive. Hadn’t they survived worse already?

She’d brought them all together to share Halloween with her and give them a chance to know each other better, but as she glanced out at the happy couples, she realized one very important fact: they did not need her. This saddened the author at first, until she looked again at the depth of devotion the couples shared. They were happy, that’s all that mattered.

Suddenly she saw two men standing alone, pointedly ignoring the paired-up individuals. Ah, Bernard and Willie. She sighed. There wasn’t much she could do for Willie now, but Bernard? Smiling, she turned away, leaving the party to return to her keyboard. No, her creations may not need her, but she needed them.

Fin.

Sunday, November 14, 2010

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round Twelve

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest has advanced to round twelve of fifteen. Looking at all the lovely covers while voting this week was bittersweet. While I'm tickled to death that the cover for The Angel of 13th Street is still in the running, so many covers that I loved and voted for faithfully are now gone. However, if not for the contest, they might not otherwise have come to my attention and I've added many books to my TBR pile, thanks to Elisa Rolle's site.
Here's the link to vote for your favorites:

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

What's Coming Next..

With Christmas a mere six weeks away, I'm finding that I'm getting into the spirit early this year. That may have something to do with my latest story, in edits now. At the moment it's fourteen thousand words, so a novella, about a man whose greatest desire is to find someone to spend Christmas, and possibly his life, with.

Here's the unedited blurb:

Candlelight, mistletoe, gaily wrapped packages beneath a trimmed tree, and someone to share it with. That’s all contractor Barry Richards wants for Christmas. Desperate for a traditional holiday, he takes drastic measures. Creating a profile on “GetaDate.com,” he hopes to find the perfect man in a matter of weeks. When one date after another goes sour, while all around him friends are falling in love, he starts to lose faith.

The first snows begin to fall and the world is filled with seasonal cheer, all except for Barry, for whom time is running out. Facing the prospect of a lonely holiday, he tries just once more to make The Match Before Christmas.


Look for The Match Before Christmas to publish as a Christmas Single Shot on December 15, from Torquere Books.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Night Watch

Night Watch, a short sequel to The Telling, was offered for a limited time on the GLBT Bookshelf as part of their September fundraiser. That fundraiser has since been closed, and for a time the story was unavailable. I'm happy to announce that the GLBT Bookshelf now has their own bookstore, and that Night Watch, along with the works of many other authors, can be purchased there. A portion of all sales goes toward the site. Here's the link.

Happy shopping!

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round 11

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest is in round eleven, with thirty covers remaining. I'm thrilled that the cover of The Angel of 13th Street is still in the running.

For these last five rounds, Elisa Rolle has enlisted the aid of three celebrity judges, and I'm blown away by who she got:
Dylan Rosser, Jesse Archer, and Jack Mackenroth. Way to go, Elisa!

Anyway, here's the link. Support your favorite covers and show their artists some much deserved appreciation.

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round Ten

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest has entered round ten of fifteen, and I'm thrilled that the cover for The Angel of 13th Street is still in the running. Only forty covers left, and this week you can only vote for thirty. Decisions, decisions. I have to admit, this competition has inspired a whole new appreciation for cover artists, who work so hard for little to no recognition. It's time to show them some love!
Here's the link.

Friday, October 29, 2010

Same Time Next Year

I have a Halloween Sip, "Same Time Next Year" releasing tomorrow at Torquere Press as part of their "Halloween Sips Blitz." Participating authors will be posting on the Live Journal tomorrow talking about their stories. I plan to hold a contest. All commenters to my post will be put into a drawing for a copy of "Same Time Next Year." Here's the link to the story.

Also, Torquere is offering a deal this weekend, just in time for the release.

Howl-o-ween sale!

It's that time of year again and we'd like you to have a howling good time. So we're offering 15% off your purchases from now through to Halloween Night. Just put 'howl2010' in the coupon code box when you check out at Torquere Books (www.torquerebooks.com) to get 15% off your order.

Sale good now through Sunday October 31 at Midnight (est).

Have a haunting good Halloween from Torquere Press!


So take advantage of the sale and get yourself some spooky reads.

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round 9

The Rainbow Awards Cover Art Contest has progressed to round 9 of 15, and I'm thrilled that the cover for The Angel of 13th Street, created by the wonderfully talented Alessia Brio, is still in the running. Only fifty covers remain, and voting is limited to forty.

Here's the link:

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

What Lies Ahead...

I've already told you about the Halloween Sip posting later this month, but I have several more releases looming on the horizon. For Christmas, The Match Before Christmas, about lonely Barry, who joins a dating site in hopes of finding the perfect man in time for the Holidays. It's classified as a Single Shot at Torquere, at approximately 14,000 words. I don't have a publish date yet for it, I only know that it will be in December.

Now for the really big news. My fifth novel, Settling the Score, has just been accepted by Torquere Press. It tells the story of a young man wronged by his lover, and a little organized payback. I'll let you know when it will be released.

Also, of the happy dance type news, The Angel of Thirteenth Street will be released in print. I'm so excited. Though I love ebooks, it's long been my dream to see a book I wrote sitting on my book shelf.  And such a lovely cover to see up there, too. I'm not sure when it will happen, but you can bet you'll hear about it here.

Oh, and I'll be offline for the next week or so, going on vacation. 

Monday, October 11, 2010

New Release Coming from Torquere Press

I have a release coming out later this month at Torquere Press for their Halloween Sips Blitz. It's called Same Time Next Year. Here's the blurb:

Jerome and Greg played on the dirt road half-way between their homes when they were kids, and found much better games to play there when they grew older. It's their special spot, the perfect place for Greg to propose, and the worst place possible for the accident that takes his life.

Devastated by the loss, Jerome visits that lonely road on the anniversary of Greg's death, to discover that not all endings are permanent.

Sunday, October 10, 2010

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest - Round Seven

The Rainbow Awards have now entered round seven. Sadly, The Wish's cover didn't make the cut, but The Angel of 13th Street's is still in the running. This week the voting gets tougher, for you're only allowed to vote for 75 covers, and with so many great ones, it's hard to choose. Decisions, decisions. Here's the link:

Vote here

Thursday, September 30, 2010

Happy Birthday, John!

If you've ever read an interview with me then you've heard me talk of the illusive friend who's the reason I first became interested in the m/m genre. We were working together in an environment that wasn't exactly gay friendly. He remarked, "You'd never understand my world." I love him dearly and desperately wanted to understand. An avid reader, I looked for answers in books, and was hooked from the very first chapter of Laura Baumbach's A Bit of Rough. That was a few years back. These days, I'm sending him great links like GLBT Bookshelf.

Well, today my dear friend had a milestone birthday. Today he also read one of my stories for the very first time. I quote, "OMG! I was so embarrassed, I smiled, I laughed, I cried." I'm hoping that the embarrassment was only because he couldn't imagine me writing a sex scene, let alone a m/m one that takes place in a sports car, and the fact that this is the first m/m romance that he's read. I'm so glad my work received the "Good Friend John" seal of approval. Now he's determined to read more.

So Happy Birthday to the wonderful guy who started Eden Winters on the road to existence. And may he have many more.

I love ya, boo! But you knew that.

Monday, September 27, 2010

A chance to win the Someplace in this World anthology...

Reviews by Jessewave is giving away a copy of Someplace in this World, an anthology of nine short stories involving the concept of 'home'. The offerings include contemporary, fantasy, historical, and steampunk - a little something for every taste, by some names you're sure to recognize. One of my stories, The Prodigal, is included. It tells the story of Mark, the rent boy Noah sends home in The Angel of 13th Street. All you have to do is comment on the thread at Wave's site to be in the drawing. Hurry, I think the deadline is midnight tonight. Here's the link:

http://www.reviewsbyjessewave.com/?p=31771#comments

Sunday, September 26, 2010

Rainbow Awards Cover Contest Enters Round Five

The Rainbow Awards Cover Contest has just entered round five. If there are covers that you particularly like, make sure to vote for each round and see your choices through to the end. This round, you're allowed to vote for 150 covers, and it's getting tougher; they're all so great. Here's the link:

The covers for The Angel of 13th Street and The Wish are both still in the running!

Saturday, September 25, 2010

The Prodigal

Normally I post my character inspirations under "Meet the Boys," but in honor of the release of the Someplace in this World anthology, I like you to meet my vision of Mark, the rent boy Noah sent home in The Angel of 13th Street. My contribution to the anthology, The Prodigal, picks up where that story left off, following Mark from the city back to the farm where he was raised.


Get the book here:

Thursday, September 23, 2010

A Wonderful Read

Recently Torquere Press released their annual Charity Sips Blitz, supporting Doctors Without Borders. Twenty eight authors participated this year and, not only will all proceeds go to this worthy charity, Torquere is going to match all money raised.

I had the privilege of participating in this event with short story What You Can't Live Without, but I have a recommendation for you. My dear friend and writing partner, P.D. Singer also offered a story, On Call: Crossroads, part of her Crossroads series. It has all the elements I adore in a story: angst, a love that is strong and true, well-developed characters, and an extraordinary plot. She made me cry. Dark Divas Reviews apparently agrees with about this fabulous tale, for they gave it five divas and the label of recommended read!
Check it out here:

Oh, and they seemed to like What You Can't Live Without pretty well too! That review is here:

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Torquere Books has just release an anthology Someplace in this World a collection of short stories dealing with the topic of home. Here's the blurb:

“Is there a place for me in this world? Someplace I can call home?” Home isn’t always the place we start from. Sometimes we have to search long and hard to discover our true home. Other times we leave home, only to discover that our home place calls us back. We may seek far and wide for a home, only to find we’ve been there all along. And sometimes, we have to stand and fight for home.

In this full-length anthology featuring contemporary, historical, fantasy, and steampunk stories, some of Torquere's favorite authors bring us stories of gay men seeking, finding, rediscovering, or struggling to find that one place in the world where they truly belong.

Each of these nine stories treads a unique pathway, but at the end of the journey, these talented authors bring their characters home.

With stories by:
Lee Benoit
Kiernan Kelly
Syd McGinley
J.L. Merrow
G.R. Richards
J. Rocci
P.D. Singer
G.S. Wiley
Eden Winters


I feel honored to have taken part in this project, and my own offering, The Prodigal, is a sequel to The Angel of 13th Street. It picks up the tale of Mark, the hustler Noah puts on a bus for home. It tells his side of the story about his encounter with Noah, and then follows him back home, where he fears acceptance. Can he truly go home again?

Find it here at Torquere Books:

Sunday, September 19, 2010

Jared's Got Talent

I want to take some time out from talking writing to let ya'll know about a very talented cover artist and friend, Jared Rackler. He's been a tremendous help in conceptualizing my stories for artwork and designed covers for some of my work. His latest, for a short story sequel to The Telling, is so fabulous I cried the first time I saw it. Ya'll, I'm pleased to present the cover of Night Watch, which has gotten quite a few compliments.

Ain't it purdy? And so very right for the story.

Interview and Two Great Reviews

The folks at Michele n Jeff Reviews were kind enough to conduct an interview with me. It just posted this morning and, low and behold, they also posted reviews of two of my novels, Duet and The Wish, awarding them five kisses each. I cannot tell you how happy I am. Many hugs to Michele and Jeff, and their wonderful reviewer, Lisa. Thanks, ya'll.

http://michelenjeff-reviews.blogspot.com/search/label/Eden%20Winters

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Torquere Press Announces Their 2010 Charity Sips Blitz

For several years Torquere Press has held an annual charity fundraiser. This year's is to support Doctor's Without Borders. The proceeds from the purchase of any of the stories offered as part of their Charity Sips Blitz, plus a matching amount donated by TQ, go to support that worthy cause. Many very talented authors contributed this year, and one of my own stories, What You Can't Live Without, is part of the selection. You can buy them separately or as part of a discounted collection. Here's the link to the stories.

Here's the link to the collection.

How can you beat getting quality reads AND doing a good thing at the same time?

Saturday, September 11, 2010

Have you ever seen a book cover so incredible that you just had to buy the book? Well, now is the time to show some love the those folks whose names usually don't appear on the book's cover, but who impact your ultimate purchasing decision. Elisa Rolle is hosting the Rainbow Awards Cover contest:

You'll probably need to open two browser tabs, one for the ballot, one to view the covers.

I'm happy to say that the covers for The Angel of Thirteenth Street and The Wish, both by the amazing Alessia Brio, made it to round two. There's plenty of covers this year, but you're allowed to vote liberally. So vote for your favorites and show your appreciation for these talented artists.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

A chance to win my latest novel, Duet.

Eden Winters's Blog

September 5, 2010

The final drawing (that I know of) of my latest novel, Duet, is currently being held at Reviews By Jessewave, a fabulous site that hosts daily book giveaways, insightful reviews, intriguing posts, and a weekly column featuring some of the biggest names in M/M romance, offering priceless words of wisdom. I recommend it highly.

Anyway, to be in the running for a copy of Duet, all you have to do is leave a comment on the thread. One poster will be selected to win.

Here's the link: 

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Rummage Sale at GLBT Bookshelf, and Sequel to The Telling!

It's that time again! Time for a rummage sale at the GLBT Bookshelf, featuring such well known authors as P.A. Brown, Mel Keegan, Laura Baumbach, and many, many more.

I have a page there, and they also are one of the hosts for the The Telling, a novel I offer as a free gift to readers. If you read The Telling, or even if you didn't, you may find the sequel, Night Watch (available as part of the rummage sale) interesting. It deals with a former soldier's post-traumatic stress disorder and how his partner's love helps him deal with it. Here's the blurb:

Javier "Jay" Ortiz has always considered The Fourth of July a time for celebrations, fireworks, and cookouts – that is, until he met Michael Ritter, a US Army veteran traumatized by the horrors of war. For Michael, the Roman candles sound like rockets and the pops and blasts of fireworks mimic rifles and grenades. When bitter memories suck him into the hell of his own mind, can his partner's love bring him back?

So come on over to the sale and find yourself some bargains! All proceeds benefit the site.

http://bookworld.editme.com/GLBT-RummageSale-September2010

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Torquere Press' Birhtday Promo!

Torquere Press Celebrates 7th Anniversary!

Seven years?! No, we can hardly believe it either. Seven years of bringing readers the best, the sexiest, the most romantic GLBT fiction. And to celebrate, we're giving away prizes -- great themed gift baskets, gift certificates for free books every day, and a scavenger hunt that will give readers a chance to collect a deck of cards that will win big - -a Nook from Barnes & Noble!

Readers will get the chance to "collect cards" by visiting each participating author's website, blog, or Facebook page. By collecting all the cards and filling in the form, players have the chance to win free books daily, a gift basket once each week, (including BDSM, werewolf and ménage themed baskets), and be entered in the grand prize drawing for the Nook.

We'll also be having random sales via our blog, GLBT Romance, Facebook, and Twitter:



With bestselling GLBT romance authors like Chris Owen, Tory Temple, Kiernan Kelly, P.D.Singer, Sean Michael, and B.A. Tortuga, you'll have a blast playing along. Just log onto Torquere Press website
Check out the contest page, and start hunting!

So, ya feel lucky, dude? Let's play!


Sunday, August 22, 2010

Duet Giveaway

My fourth novel, Duet, will publish August 25th from Torquere Press. To celebrate, a copy will be given away on Stumbling Over Chaos, a blog of books and cats. All you have to do is comment on the post, stating you'd like to enter. The contest ends on the 24th and Chris will choose the winner. The prize will be awarded after it's published. Here the link: http://www.stumblingoverchaos.com/archives/8496

Sunday, July 25, 2010

The Countdown Begins....

Duet is releasing on August 25!!! Can you believe it's almost August already?

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Meet the Boys

I have a vast collection of pictures on my hard drive that inspired my stories. While reading a book, many of you may form you own impressions, but I thought it might be fun to share the pictures that helped me create the men in my books. Alex from The Wish starts us off. See photo to the right. I intend to post a new character each week. Tune in next week all you Willie fans!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

What to Work on Now?

I have been trying to revise Settling the Score and get it ready for submission, but other stories are making demands. There's a Halloween Sip that I plan to send to Torquere before the August 1 deadline, and a Christmas single shot is consuming all waking thoughts with a threat of "write me or else!"

The story that takes place in the same world as Flame is tugging on my sleeve, and I'm getting a few pokes to write the sequel to The Telling. So many words, so little time. And did I mention the shape shifter trilogy?

Sigh. Too bad I have to go to work sometime.

Friday, July 9, 2010

New M/M Authors Who Rock

I was nominated by a reader and mentioned in a post today at Reviews by Jessewave entitled "New M/M Authors Who Rock." It's for new authors in this genre who have been published for less than a year but have made an impression on readers. Here the link! http://www.reviewsbyjessewave.com/?p=26112#more-26112

I read about the other authors mentioned and consider myself to be in some amazing company. There will be other similar posts in the future, so if you have a favorite new writer you'd like to see get the recognition they deserve get on over there and submit their information.

Thanks go to Feliz for nominating me, and saying such nice things about my work.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Welcome to my Blog

As you can see, I'm just setting up shop and getting comfortable here. So be sure to check back for new posts once I get this whole blogger thing figured out. I've posted links to my stories, and here is another important site: my Goodreads page:

www.goodreads.com/author/show/3247006.Eden_Winters

Also, you can find me at the GLBT Bookshelf:

http://bookworld.editme.com/EdenWinters

Visitors are always welcome; I'd love to hear from you.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Duet - Out August 25 from Torquere Press


The English -- an evil not to be tolerated, or so Aillil Callaghan believes, and the Kentish tutor his father brings to the Highlands to teach his younger brothers the ways of the conquerors is no exception. Malcolm Byerly has nothing but charm, music, and affection to win over the skeptic who wears the forbidden kilt, yet the sound of the violin brings them together. Scarlet fever respects none, and their budding love can’t stave off fate. Is death the end, or will the help of a Druid priestess make it a new beginning?

Two violins, one love. How many lifetimes?