Wednesday Briefs - My Demon, My Vampire Michael Mandrake

It's been forever since  I did the Wednesday Briefs. This is from my short I just completed for the Valentine's Day giveaway. I've had several request to expand it and I will. For now, enjoy the first part. 

The sounds of swords clanging against one another rung through my household. Every week, once or twice in a seven day span, I’d teach and spar with who would become a very important vampire in the coming days, Ryland Durand.  For two earthly years, which to me had only begun, I gave Ryland lessons on various black arts and spells, putting him amongst the most powerful immortals in the universe. Coupled with his intelligence and calm spirit, the gifts I’d bestowed upon him would make him damn near invincible. I was told we would need allies like him if the great battle my first father prophesied would occur.

Though my prime objective was to be his instructor, I had developed intense feelings for the blood sucker. Nothing would please me more than to have Ryland by my side, but the vampire had committed to his brother and a human named Dale. When I expressed how I felt to Ryland, he responded there was no room in his heart or his bed for another. Nevertheless, I would not be deterred and would use every opportunity as merely another part of my relentless plan of seduction.

“Ha!” Ryland lunged forward, showing off his magnificent fencing techniques, attacking me whenever he could detect what he supposed to be my weakness.

“Good move, Ryland.”

When Ryland appeared to be relaxed, I knocked the weapon out of Ryland’s hands, sending it across the room. Not allowing him to move, I placed the tip of my blade against Ryland’s throat. Without moving it, I slowly stalked closer to Ryland, watching his eyes and reading his thoughts. Within those, I saw the plans Ryland had concocted to use the magic spell I’d given him to gain the upper hand.

Although I’d lose this particular match, I’d let him win so he’d question my decision.

For a demon who relies on raw emotions for consumption and arousal, there was more than one way to obtain what I desired.

“You have plans to take this sword?” I asked him, cocking an eyebrow.

Ryland grimaced, gnashing his teeth together. “I … I do.”

While I continued to scan his mind, I studied Ryland’s face. The sharp cheekbones, the gorgeous profile. Beautiful light brown eyes with speckles of yellow along with a narrow nose and full kissable lips. Ryland was indeed a sight to behold and my only wish was to be near him even with my feelings for the blasted angel looming over my head.

Of course, if given the choice, I would pick Ryland in a heartbeat over Calisto.

We were one in the same; demons and killers.

Nearly losing my concentration, I swiped my tongue over my lip and nodded once. “Then do what you have been taught.”

Ryland’s eyes changed into a deep crimson color, before he closed them. In a matter of seconds, my sword flew out of my grasp and into Ryland’s. Then, with all his might, Ryland roughly pushed me against the wall with so much force it caused cracks in the foundation. With his body fully pinned against mine, he raised the weapon, tucking it under my chin.

Noting my defeat, I grunted and met his fiery gaze once again.

“How did I do, teacher?” Ryland flashed a smirky grin.

Not able to be killed, only tiny embers of fire spit from my neck. I felt no pain in the spot Ryland had pierced. Instead, discomfort in my groin where I desperately wanted release. Thoroughly aroused by the two of us being so close, I drew in a sharp breath and bowed my head once.

“You’ve done well, Ryland. As to be expected.”

Ryland’s grin disappeared. He marked me with the edge of the sword. Then, he quickly pulled it away, his crimson eyes narrowing. “You knew of my plan the whole time, did you, not? Why did you let me defeat you?”

Still watching the beautiful creature, I ran my hand over the slivers of flesh on my throat. The wounds dissipated and I leaned in close. Our mouths were only an inch or so apart. I shrugged. “I did not, my friend. You caught me by complete surprise.”

“Liar!” Ryland spun on his feet, apparently angry about my submission. “You are to teach me, Valios. Allowing me to win, will not teach me a damn thing!”

Feeling his disdain, I inhaled deeply and closed my eyes tight. Tiny flickers of fire burned in my belly, seeping down to my groin. Knowing the vampire’s emotions were getting out of control, my arousal increased. If only he would allow me one time to make him experience the same excitement firsthand.

“Valios!”

Ryland’s bark sounded and broke my concentration. Unlike other immortals it took a lot for me to be sexually turned on. However, with my student in such close proximity, the task of stimulating me was not difficult at all. The lust I had for him was abundantly clear.

Slowly, I opened my eyes, taking in the vampire’s attractiveness. I licked my lips, sensing the surge of energy bolt through every spot in my body.

“Ryland?”

“I cannot do this anymore. You are not keeping things professional as I have asked you to.”

“I have kept things exactly the way I said I would, Ryland. I have yet to make a pass at you. Although …” I stood in front of him, softly running my hands over his flawless jawline. Being of the undead, his flesh was cold to the touch. Still, the fire in my mind, heart, body, and soul would not be extinguished no matter how low his body temperature was.

“Our lesson is over, vampire. Now that our professional time is complete, I could use the rest of the evening to show how much I care for you.”

Ryland continued to eye me confused. I sensed the conflicts in his mind and heart about the feelings he had for me.

Could they be mere adoration?

Lust?

Perhaps love, but I didn’t need the last emotion to sustain me. I was a demon. We cared nothing about being loved. We fed on hatred, lust, and greed. Surely that “godly” quality did not make a damn bit of difference in how I’d pursue a relationship with Ryland.

“Then, I shall end this night now.” Ryland pulled away and slammed his sword into the scabbard on his hip.

Before he could get away any further, I reached out for Ryland, curling my claws around his bicep.

“Please, stay.” I managed through baited breaths.

I seethed, thinking of Ryland’s partners. His lovers, who ruled his mind and body, making him inaccessible to those who were more than fond of him.

Namely me.

“I cannot. I am due home to enjoy a dinner with my family. Dale wants us to try something he calls jambalaya. A southern staple, he tells us. He’s even went as far as to add fresh animal blood to season it for myself and Ryder. Such a thoughtful lover he is.”

Ignoring his statement, I yanked Ryland into me. We were turned in opposite ways, but still able to lock eyes; his light brown orbs with my emerald greens.

Again, I leaned in close, inhaling the faint scents of flesh from Ryland’s body. He also smelled of sandalwood, not natural, perhaps a chemical he had took to wearing so his true ardor would be masked.

“He is that, but in your heart I detect emotions for me. You do not want to leave. The fire inside your groin burns out of control, much like mine. You lust me. If you didn’t, you wouldn’t continue to come here taking lessons.”

Ryland nodded. “It is true, Valios. I do sense my feelings for you running deeper than they should, but I must beg of you to respect me and my relationship. You have known about this−”

“I do, but I choose not to allow it to override my desire to seduce you.”

Ryland swallowed hard. Apparently aroused, he opened his mouth and hissed, revealing elongated fangs.

“Ah, Valios. You make things too difficult, and despite the want I possess to be passionately entangled with you, I must still decline this tantalizing offer.”

Ryland pressed a soft kiss on my cheek and squeezed my arm.

“I shall leave now. When you have new lessons to show me, I will return. Until then, please do not contact me.”

Ryland grasped my bicep again, before using the power I’d given him to disappear into thin air. Unlike the old vampire folklore, Ryland did not change into a bat. Instead, he vanished into a cloud of smoke as I would do.

Mentally, I kicked myself for giving him that ability, to use against me when he saw fit. At times I wished I hadn’t been so giving with my most important spells, like now when I wished to compel him to stay by my side.

Despite this, I was doing my duty as the head soul catcher demon, preparing one of our greatest allies for a possible war down the line.

Though neither of my fathers predicted me falling for the bloodsucker, I did not regret it entirely.

If only I would’ve made my feelings known before Ryland and Ryder found their third. The written story in the immortal truth book would’ve been written in my favor. 

*****Hope you enjoyed the story. To read more about Valios and Ryland, read N'awlins Exotica Parnormal series. The first four are free on Smashwords. The 5th is 99 cents. This is an alternate universe story. A spin off of the original tale. 

Please check out the other briefers here

Saturday Sips - Mon Frere Facing Our Fears

Here is a snippet from the newest book

Ryland and Ryder are in danger…

Celebrating their 298th birthday, the Durand brothers are still at an impasse over their third, Dale Mooney, and the cause of their maker Gren DuMont’s death. As they battle personality clashes, Ryland and Ryder set out to slay Gren’s killer as well as conquer their own fears; Ryder’s fear of losing Ryland to Dale and Ryland’s fear of the unknown lurking around their safe haven in New Orleans.

With little help from the demon Valios, the twins travel to Paris to meet the murderer face to face but will their own insecurities impede their goal of slaying the killer? At this point they only have each other to rely on and the fate of all vampires lies in their hands.

All Romance     Smashwords

“Happy birthday, dear Ryland and Ryder! Happy birthday to you! Yay!” Dale, Kajika, and Waylon sang the dreaded song for the twins to celebrate their two hundredth and ninety-eighth year on earth. Although this was a joyous occasion, Ryder could think of a million other places he wanted to be.

My brother doesn’t love me anymore.

Ryder sighed inwardly and thought about the moment he and his brother had alone a little while ago. Everything was perfect. They were at the club, inside the office, alone, just the two of them, as it had always been. Ryder asked for Ryland to let him drink from him while they made love. Not fucked but made love. No one would satisfy him as much as Ryland could despite anything anyone had tried to throw at him. Everyone, including the luscious Kyla, tried to tempt him into bed, but like Ryland, he had a conscience. A fucking conscience to tell him no, don’t fucking be with anyone other than your brother and Dale. Why? Why the hell should Ryder care so much when his brother didn’t give him the same regard?  Ryder bristled at the thought of turning down all those offers to have mindless sex with others while Ryland got his fill of the human.

Damnit.

Ryder clicked his teeth and glared at Ryland who shared a kiss with Dale. Of course he wouldn’t kiss him in front of Kajika. Their nephew had no knowledge of their relationship.

“Happy birthday, brother. Mon frère!” Ryland gently kissed the side of Ryder’s head. “I am thrilled we made it to this point.”

“So am I.” Ryder shrugged his shoulders and got up from the table, wanting to get away from the party. He wasn’t in the mood to celebrate anything right now.

“Unc, what’s wrong, huh? Would you like a little cake? I know you don’t really eat this, but… I was hoping you and Unc Ry would for your party.”

Ryder shook his head. “No thanks, Kajika. I’m good.” Ryder walked to the window, aching to go outside and hunt for food, but he knew Ryland would be upset if he did. It was the perfect time to do so too; a perfectly clear night and cool air, meaning there were plenty of good tasting humans walking around to prey on in the Quarter.

After all, it was almost the end of summer festival season. Many tourists were still in town, getting drunk at wild parties, not caring about their welfare. Ryder loved to prey on them because in his mind, if they were too stupid to pay attention, they didn’t deserve to live.

“Mhmm, Ryder, come have a little, please? It is actually very good. Kaj made sure the color was similar to blood, and it isn’t overly sweet. You must try a little, my dear brother. It’s our party, Ryder. Come enjoy yourself.”

Ryder only shook his head and kept looking at the moon, wishing he was outside. Despite the happy time this was for him and Ryland, he refused to be part of this celebration after Ryland rejected him earlier. His eyes narrowed, looking out the glass at the bright full moon in the sky. “Ah, Gren, wherever you are, I wish I was there with you right now.”

* * * *

Ryland shook his head and stopped eating the small piece of cake his nephew had given him. Suddenly, he’d lost his appetite for human food and set the dish down on the table. “I’ve had enough, Kajika. Thank you very much.”

Kajika nodded and hugged Ryland. “You sure, Unc? Are you all right? And what’s wrong with Ryder? Did something happen between the two of you earlier?”

Ryland inhaled and twitched his nose. “No, nephew, nothing to worry your pretty little head about.” Ryland softly stroked Kajika’s hair and pressed his lips to his temple. “Why don’t you go and talk with Waylon a little bit, hmm, and send Dale back over here. There’s something I want to ask him.”

Kajika flashed him a smile and did as Ryland asked.

Ryland watched Kajika with interest, hoping he didn’t read too much into his brother’s poor attitude and lack of hospitality. It was hard enough to keep things from Kajika and Dale without Ryder acting like a spoiled brat.

Ryder, you need to stop acting like a petulant child! You’re making me angry, and you felt a taste of my wrath earlier tonight. Don’t push me anymore, mon frère. Don’t fucking test me on our birthday!

Ryland closed his eyes tight, sending the message to his brother across the room. When he opened his eyes, he noticed Ryder look back at him with a slightly startled expression but then he looked back out the window. Obviously Ryland’s threats didn’t concern him all that much.

“Yeah, babe, what’s up? Ready to have our own little party, hmm? I mean, I’m enjoying hanging out with Kajika and my older brother, but I want you so badly tonight.” Dale wrapped both arms around Ryland’s waist and pulled him close.

Dale’s touches caused a tent in Ryland’s tight leathers. He sighed inwardly. “Just tonight?” Ryland elbowed him in the chest and flashed him a wicked smile. “Lover, we need to ask Kajika and Waylon to leave. I have a very upset twin over there that needs our attention. He’s acting like a spoiled brat, but I need to at least attempt to make him feel better.”

Dale glanced in that direction before turning Ryland around to face him. “Oh, yeah? You mean…”

“Yes, that, love. I refuse to allow him to be the gloom and doom of our birthday celebration. And actually, I might need to have a little alone time before you come with us. Is that all right?”

Dale’s smile turned down, and he dropped his gaze. “Aw, shucks, sugar, I suppose. I mean, I know you guys are brothers and all, but even if I don’t participate at first I’d like to watch, you know? It’s hot seeing the two of you together.”

Ryland stroked the side of his face and planted a firm kiss on his lips. “I would agree that it is, but I believe he needs a little brotherly nurturing first. He thinks I don’t love him anymore. I need to settle his fears before he goes out amongst the masses and kills everyone in his path. He can get that way, you know. I’m saving the world heartache by reeling in his energy and allowing him to unleash it all on me.”

Dale looked sheepish, disappointed. “Oh damn, man. All right. I’ll wait in the other room or something. You wanna say bye to Kajika and Waylon right now then?”

Ryland sighed and kissed his lover once again. He really hated disappointing Dale, but his brother’s mood bothered him a lot more. He’d read things from his mind and heart that needed urgent attention, and that meant leaving his lover alone for a while. Ryland leaned his head against Dale’s and caressed his chin. “Yes, Dale, let’s do that. The quicker we can say goodnight, the faster I can get to my twin and make him happy.” 

Mon Frere: Facing Our Fears is OUT

Shar just uploaded Mon Frere 

Here are the links.

ARe

Smashwords

I'll share a snippet for Saturday Sips

and thanks again to Sara York for the cover

Welcome Julie Lynn Hayes

It's been a while since I had guests on the blog. I need to start inviting people again. Let me start with good friend and fellow author Julie Lynn Hayes with a post promoing her new book, When Will I See You Again!

Moon Musings

“O, swear not by the moon, the fickle moon, the inconstant moon, that monthly changes in her circle orb...”

William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

“Cold-hearted orb that rules the night 
Removes the colors from our sight 
Red is grey and yellow white 
But we decide which is right 
And which is an illusion?”

Moody Blues, Nights in White Satin/Lament

The Moon is one of the most highly anthropomorphized heavenly bodies, in poetry, music, and film. The moon is both villain and hero, blamed for the madness of men on the one hand and praised for her encouragement of lovers on the other. The word lunatic derives the old French lunatique, lunage, or directly from Late Latin lunaticus “moon-struck”, from the Latin luna “moon.” And of course we all know there is a man in the moon, who lives off of the cheese the moon is made from!

In Greek mythology, Selene is the goddess of the moon. Her siblings are the sun-god Helios and Eos, goddess of the dawn. Her name most likely derives from selas, the Greek work for light. Her brother Helios is often identified with Apollo, and is referred to as Phoebus, while Selene, identified with Artemis, is also known as Phoebe.

The ancient Greeks used gods and goddesses to help explain the natural world around them, such as the rising and setting of the sun and moon. The moon must have been particularly mystifying with her seemingly constant changing—waxing and waning as each month progressed, completely disappearing during the time of the new moon, and then reappearing in all her glory during the full moon.

Even today, there are people who believe that the moon is an influence on their lives, besides the pull she exerts on the tides. One example is the monthly cycle of women, menses sharing a common root with the Greek words for moon and month. Some people believe that the moon affects their moods.

And then there are other creatures that are more directly affected: werewolves.

What is it about the full moon that causes this phenomemon?

An Australian study among emergency patients with violent, acute disturbances comparable to werewolves found that a quarter of those admitted to a small hospital north of Sydney occurred on the night of the full moon, double the number for other lunar phases. Some people were reported to rub themselves with a special ointment, to induce the transformation to becoming a werewolf, an ointment often containing belladonna and nightshade—well known for their hallucinogenic qualities. In modern times, these ointments have been replaced by alcohol and drugs.

Werewolves are not necessarily just the stuff of legends. There have been reported werewolf sightings in Wisconsin that go back to 1936. Cases of people who believe themselves to be werewolves have been reported in various scientific journals, including The Canadian Psychiatric Association Journal. In 16^th century Germany, a farmer claiming to be a werewolf was dealt a very unpleasant death by frightened townspeople. As for literature, werewolf stories go back many years, including the epic Gilgamesh, written 4,000 years ago.

For a werewolf, the moon is a cruel mistress indeed, one he or she cannot evade. She must be obeyed on that night, for nothing short of death can stop the change. But what if there were a drug that could control the change, control the beast within? Would that make being a werewolf more palatable? More acceptable to society at large?

When Will I See You Again takes place in a time when the presence of werewolves and vampires among the general populace is known and accepted, largely because of drugs that control any baser animal instincts. SL57 is the werewolf wonder drug, short for SomnioLupus, otherwise known as Wolf Trank. In the small seaside town of Crescent Bay, people come to the famous nightclub Charisma, mostly because of the charismatic man who is one of the best-known supes in the area: Raoul Marchand. Raoul is a regular party animal, one who lives but to have a good time, and who cares for no one and nothing. But he hasn’t always been this way...

 Blurb: Raoul Marchand is the crown prince of Charisma, the infamous night club in Crescent Bay, renowned for its supernatural clientele. He has the pick of any and all men, but he cares for none. He uses them and throws them away again, and has done so for some twenty years, in the aftermath of a tragedy that robbed him of what he loved most in the world.

Alexx Jameson is an idealistic young would-be reporter with the Crescent Bay Chronicle. Presented with an opportunity to write a story on the Marchands, he eagerly grasps the chance to be a real reporter. His friend, Chronicle receptionist Miller Fenwick, suggests they go to Charisma to do a little research. Alexx isn’t sure that’s such a great idea. After all, he’s still under age, being only twenty. No problem, Miller can fix that! Added bonus, there’s a full moon tonight.

When Alexx first encounters Raoul, it isn’t exactly in the way he dreamed of, and he’s sure he made a terrible first impression. But Fate throws them together under unforeseen circumstances, and the attraction between them can’t be denied. Can Raoul let go of the past long enough to find his future with Alexx, or is he doomed to repeat past mistakes?

Excerpt:

Alexx drew in his breath in dismay. This wasn’t going well. Even so, he could not stop staring at Raoul. His eyes met the other man’s. Raoul’s were very golden; he wasn’t aware such colors even existed in the spectrum of the human eye. But then again, he didn’t have any friends that were werewolves either. He wondered if this was a sign that perhaps this man was about to change, right here and now?

The thought was both exhilarating and frightening.

Alexx’s vision telescoped until he wasn’t aware of anything but this gorgeous man in front of him. Blood pounded in his ears and his mouth felt suddenly dry. Having lost all sense of the others in the room, he was surprised when he felt his chair yanked out from under him. Before he could fall, a hand grabbed the scruff of his neck, propelling him to his feet. He glanced at his companion; Miller was being subjected to the same surly treatment.

“You waste my time for this?” Raoul’s upper lip curled back in a snarl. Alexx found himself wildly attracted to him. “I have somewhere I need to be. Paolo, please show these gentlemen out.” Sarcastic much? He turned and reached for the door, but it opened before he touched it.

A shaggy blond with hazel eyes and a cheerful countenance stuck his head inside. “Hey Paolo—” He interrupted himself at the sight of the occupants of the room.

Alexx heard Miller’s sigh of relief, even as he too recognized the newcomer. He’d seen him around the Chronicle often enough, although he’d never really spoken to him. Foster Levine, son of the Chronicle’s owner—heir apparent and future newspaper magnate.

Alexx’s relief quickly changed to anxiety. What if Foster knew how old he really was? He couldn’t be sure one way or the other, but for the sake of argument, he had to assume he did. Would he out him to Raoul Marchand and his burly minion? Had they simply jumped from the frying pan to be scorched by the fire?

Author Bio:

Julie Lynn Hayes was reading at the age of two and writing by the age of nine and always wanted to be a writer when she grew up. Two marriages, five children, and more than forty years later, that is still her dream. She blames her younger daughters for introducing her to yaoi and the world of M/M love, a world which has captured her imagination and her heart and fueled her writing in ways she'd never dreamed of before. She especially loves stories of two men finding true love and happiness in one another's arms and is a great believer in the happily ever after. She lives in St. Louis with her daughter Sarah and two cats, loves books and movies, and hopes to be a world traveler some day. She enjoys crafts, such as crocheting and cross stitch, knitting and needlepoint and loves to cook. While working a temporary day job, she continues to write her books and stories and reviews, which she posts in various places on the internet. Her family thinks she is a bit off, but she doesn't mind. Marching to the beat of one's own drummer is a good thing, after all.  Her published works can be found at Amber Quill Press, Dreamspinner Press, MuseitUp Publishing, Torquere Press, and eXtasy Books. She is also an editor at MuseitUp.  

My links:

Blog  http://julielynnhayes.blogspot.com

Twitter @Shelley_runyon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julie.l.hayes.7?ref=tn_tnmn

My Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3442231.Julie_Lynn_Hayes

Email: tothewolf.max@gmail.com

Saturday Sips - Mon Frere: Facing Our Fears

Good morning. I'm playing along with BL for the Saturday Sips today. I'm busy writing the next installment for my twincest series for Ryland and Ryder Durand and I thought I'd share it with you. It's in it's beginning stages but I really like it so far. I'm hoping to release this around the same time as I Love it Rough. 

Here's a sample

Together we stand, together we fall. I am your brother always and forever.

Ryland tucked the card on the side of the bouquet he’d handpicked for their birthday dinner’s adornment and set it in the center of the table. He inhaled them one last time, enjoying the aroma of freshly cut, red roses. Now more than ever he enjoyed just the simple pleasure in life, especially with Dale Mooney at his side. If only his brother would come around and take pleasure in life as he did.

“Ah, Ryder.” He fluffed out the flowers some more. “I love you more than life itself. Why not enjoy our man as I have asked?” Ryland took one more whiff and headed for the kitchen to find his human lover who was busily preparing food for himself. “Mhmm, Dale what are you cooking my love? Smells scrumptious.” And it did, despite the fact Ryland had no need to consume anything mortals ate. Ryland sauntered into the next room, sliding behind his lover, wrapping his arms around his waist.

“Ohh shi−” Dale flinched at the touch and laughed, slightly turning his head to the side to meet Ryland’s gaze. “Baby you gotta cut that out, huh? I’m real ticklish I tell ya. At least wait until I get away from the oven.”

Dale’s southern accent warmed Ryland’s cold heart. Gently, he planted a kiss on Dale’s right shoulder. “I’ll do more than just tickle you, lover. That is a guarantee.”

“Mhmm, and I love when you do, sugah. Just broilin’ some fish, babe with a lil’ Cajun rice and veggies. Nothin too much but, I gotta stay healthy so I can give ya’ all the blood you need.”

Ryland cocked an eyebrow, laying his head on the back of Dale’s neck. He sucked in a breath, enjoying Dale’s manly scent. Ryland winced, feeling his cock tent in his trousers and immediately, he stepped back, cursing under his breath about his desires. As much as he wanted to take his lover up on the offer he wasn’t sure he could control himself.

What if I turn him before his ready?

Ryland couldn’t bear to think of the consequences. The last thing he wanted was to take a chance on losing Dale again.

Hope you enjoyed. Remember you can get the full series at ARe and Smashwords

Please enjoy BL's post for ML3 

New Cover and Mon Frere, Plus One coming to you this Weekend!

Well its done

The follow-up to Mon Amour, the story with my beloved twins, Ryland and Ryder

Amazon

ARe

And 

Smashwords

Saturday Sips - Mon Frere, Plus One

Book 2 Mon Amour

Greetings folks. I just finished first draft on Mon Frere, plus One which is the 3rd book in the N'awlins Exotica Paranormal series. There are 2 more after this one and our beloved twins will fade into N'awlins Exotica as well as another GLBT series I have coming tentatively called Immortal Souls which features Angel Calisto and demon Valios from Demon Be Mine.

Back to book 3, this one goes more  in depth with the twins and Rylands sudden desire for a third. It's a little scary too as Valios makes an appearance in this story. I also introduce Wade and Waylon Mooney into the fold and there is a special appearance by Kajika as well. It's a long one, look for it to be released by Halloween or the first week of November.

Unedited Excerpt

“I’m wavering, I’m sinkin into the abyss, with you,” Wade Mooney strummed his acoustic guitar on the steps of the Down Home lounge. Because he was good friends with the owner, he allowed him to use this place as his stage while the place was closed. Wade wished he could get some kind of big time deal to support himself and mother in her time of need. The money from his brother Waylon only went so far.

As he continued to wail, a small crowd gathered around him, clapping to his melodies and moving to the beats with him and his background band. Despite the fact they did pretty good with the change, bus cards, and food from onlookers, it was never enough. Wade really hated taking money from his more successful brother all the time. He paid his rent, gave him cash anytime he asked for it and Wade was starting to feel like more of a burden. Still, Wade knew his sibling didn’t mind. The kind hearted Waylon Mooney would never say no.

Besides that, much of Waylon’s Money went to taking care of their sick mother. The insurance she had only went so far and the bills had gotten out of control. Wade knew he had to do something so robbing the old lady he’d helped over the last couple of months was necessary. Sure he felt guilty but she was too rich to notice the three thousand he’d taken anyway.

“My, my, my…little sister…can’t stop thinkin about your love.” Wade rolled his eyes at the lyrics his band mate had written. Wade could care less about a woman but his drummer, Dave, didn’t think any tunes about manlove would go over well with the masses. Wade mentioned artists like Adam Lambert but David balked at it, saying he wouldn’t be singing any “faggot” songs. At times, Wade wished he could ask David to leave the band, but he was by far the best drummer they’d played with.

“Sing it, babe.” Interrupting him, a pretty young woman yelled out to Wade, dancing to the beat and snapping her fingers in front of the small crowd. As if on stage, she twirled around and maneuvered her body, much to everyone’s enjoyment.

Despite not being attracted to the ladies, he took pleasure in seeing someone dance to one of their tunes. “Go on, baby… go for it, now.” Wade continued to strum, looking away from woman to concentrate on his notes. He loved the interaction of the crowds and wished his band could land regular gigs to make extra money. Of course if that happened there would have to be changes if they were to be successful. The question was how far Wade was willing to go to get to the top? This was the reason Wade’s Nola Connection Band stayed in the shadows even here in their own state. Wade was too headstrong to change and too lazy to do a lot more than what he had to. If only he had the same drive as his brother Waylon, then he might not be in this situation.

One more lyric and couple of picks of the strings and Nola Connection was done with this set. At the close of the song, people cheered and applauded, leaving change and dollar bills in the small case before them. Much to Wade’s chagrin the song his drummer wrote seemed to be quite a hit every time they sung it. Too bad he couldn’t change the words around to fit his sexual preference.

“Hey, see there, man… see…” David ran up behind, clasping him on the back. “Told ya that song would be a crowd pleaser.” Smiling wide, he crouched down, picking up the wads of money in the guitar case.

“Yeah, yeah, alright, you told me… still it don’t mean nothin’, dude. When we get some kind of regular gig or a deal then come talk to me.” Wade glared at David and his other guitarist, Sid grabbing handfuls of the cash. Yeah he liked the money a whole lot but could care less about this chump change. The fact remained he was still broke, living off his brother when he, the older of the two, shouldn’t be such a moocher. Wade knew he should be setting the example, not following it.

David looked up from his kneeling position with discerning eyes. “Well, when you gonna get that for us, Wade? I mean, we been waiting for your lazy ass to come through with something. Unlike you, me and Sid got day jobs and families to feed. We don’t need this as much as you do but yet, you ain’t done a whole lot to make things happen.”

Wade’s brows furrowed and he tossed his guitar pick away. “Fuck you, man! I’ve been making some calls to get things going, right? I talked with a couple of bars in Metarie about playing there and in Mississippi.”

“Yeah, at the same tired places we been at man? What about deals, what about sending our shit to some companies or having people come check us out, here? I thought that was your main focus, man?”

Wade grimaced when David spewed the same idiotic nonsense he’d heard before. “Dude, people don’t do that shit anymore; they DIY every fucking thing. You put your shit on Facebook, upload on Youtube which I’ve done… We got over six hundred thousand hits for some of our street performances, man. Just hoping to get noticed by someone, that’s all. It will happen too…mark my words, man.”

David held his hands up. “Alright, man. Don’t forget, this is mostly your dream. And again, you won’t get very far singin’ songs about boys when you are one. That guy Lambert got lucky…” He stuffed a few bills in his pockets as did Sid. “Left most for you, dude. Why don’cha buy some new duds with it or something?” I gotta get to work.”

“Yeah me too, man. See ya tomorrow night, then?” Sid snapped his case closed and slung it over his back.

“Yeah, later dudes.” Wade waved them away and dropped to his knees, taking the rest of the money for himself. As much as he wanted to buy some clothes, he couldn’t, knowing tonight’s money would be for groceries for the next three days. Too bad for that too because many of the pairs of jeans he owned were starting to show wear and tear. Perhaps Waylon would take pity on him and take Wade shopping when he arrived back in town in the next few weeks. Waylon hardly said no to his brother and Wade was mighty grateful for this fact.

Sighing, he loaded his own jean pockets with the last of the money and placed his guitar on the case. The Down Home was due to open any minute now and he needed to move before the masses made their way inside. Perhaps he’d stick around a moment, especially to meet that hot man who he ogled a few days ago.

Mmph…

That creature, that man was strikingly beautiful. He was so damn shy he refused to come out of the shadows. The poor man must’ve been so afraid he hid behind a car, trying to stay away. Wade wished he didn’t. Someone so beautiful shouldn’t be covering themselves. But before he could react or introduce himself, he was gone and hadn’t come back to this spot since.

“Where are you sexy man?” Wade tilted his head to the side, peering at the people gathering at the entrance to get into the club. This was however one of the best places in the quarter for people to enjoy cheap drinks and great music. Tourists flocked to the Down Home because of its favorable reputation. Wade lifted his case and nodded at onlookers. “Have fun ladies and gents and when you come out don’t forget to tip your friendly street performer.” Wade yanked his pack of cigs out his pocket and headed to the corner.

Wade’s routine everyday was to play on the steps with the band then on the sidewalk to perform alone. Here he’d be able to do his own songs without worrying about David or Sid.

With his Marlboro hanging from his mouth, he pulled out his guitar and popped a squat on the blanket be used as a seat. Softly, he stroked the strings, thinking about the gorgeous stranger who ran away.

Hey good looking man, why don’cha come back and see me play.

Hope you enjoyed! If you haven't read book one follow the link here.

Saturday Sips - Mon Amour Forever More

Good morning! Havent done the Saturday Sips in a while. Here's one from my latest book, Mon Amour!

Blurb: Identical twins, Ryland and Ryder Durand have consummated their relationship but jealousy and concern about their personality clashes have brought problems to their seemingly perfect union. Will the brothers stay together despite the challenges?
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“Je t'aime plus que jamais…” (I love you more than ever before…) Hours after they’d returned from the Quarter, the words played as if on tape recorder in Ryland’s mind. Still shaken, his beloved brother consoled him after the surprise attack from the human who called himself Vance. And after a couple hours of crying on his shoulder, begging his brother to leave New Orleans, he’d finally calmed, and the two consummated their relationship once again, leaving Ryland completely satisfied, content that everything would be all right.

“Brother?” Ryder lightly stroked Ryland’s back and snuggled closer to him, planting a gentle kiss on his left bicep.

Immediately, his cock stirred underneath the sheets. “Yes, mon amour?” Ryland didn’t bother turning around. Instead, he gripped one of his brother’s arms, binding Ryder to him from behind.

“Do you feel better now? Are you calmer?” Ryder nibbled on his earlobe and blew air on his neck, causing the small hairs there to stand on edge.

Ryland was so aroused, he’d all but forgotten about the unfortunate happenings of the night prior. At least temporarily. “Much, yes, thank you. I appreciate you bringing me out of my hysterics. In my heart of hearts, I’d never want to leave this place. I love it too much to do so.” Ryland moved back on the bed so there would be no more space between them. At that moment, the head of his brother’s cock nudged the crevice of his backside, instantly sending a surge of adrenaline to his groin. Although he craved his brother to be inside of him again, he actually preferred to be on top.

“Of course you do. Gren brought us here to live the rest of our immortal lives. And you promised me you’d stay here and help me find his killer.”

“Which I will, mon frère,” he interrupted and turned to face him. Ryland slid his arm underneath his brother’s and caressed his skin, tracing the ink on his back. “I’d never leave you alone, ever. We’re twins, joined at the hip.”

“Yeah, you say that now, but I remember when you first found out that I told Gren to bite you, wow…” Ryder chuckled and shook his head. “You threatened to leave me. You were so mad.”

“Well, I was angry because you made that decision for me without my consent.” Ryland met his gaze and gripped onto his backside, patting it lightly. The surge to his groin came almost immediately, causing Ryland’s sexual urges to grow out of control. He wondered why he was suddenly so much more interested in sex over all else.

“Yes, but I thought it was for the best. Although you’d been hurt by those blasted Frenchmen when they assaulted you, I just wanted you close to me. I wanted the bond with you, Ryland.” Ryder raised his voice.

“I know…shh… shh, hush now. Of course I understood after we talked things out.” Ryland put his arousal aside and concentrated on the words his brother spoke.

“Yeah, well, you were badly hurt and since you were unconscious, I found that the best time to ask Gren to change you, Ryland.” Ryder softly stroked Ryland’s forehead and kissed the tip of his nose. “Besides, if you would’ve died from your injuries, we wouldn’t have this. This…special relationship. You know? I couldn’t imagine life without you, bro.”

Ryland returned the affection with a peck on the lips, now returning the favor of calming his younger sibling’s fears. “Me either, Ryder, but believe me, you never will.”

* * * *

Unable to stop thinking about it, Ryder reflected back to that fateful day when Gren changed their lives forever. Although he’d never regret his choice, he was glad Ryland forgave him for deciding on it without his consent.

* * * *

White Apple - Mississippi 1736

“Ohh… Gren. Gren, please, we must do something to help him!” Ryder trembled with fear, and tears ran down his face as he held his brother, Ryland, in his arms. His face bloodied along with bruises under his eyes and on his cheeks from the blows he’d taken in the melee with the Frenchmen. Ryland’s clothing was tattered in several places, revealing deep cuts and wounds on his arms and his legs.

“Oh, mon frère, what have they done to you, my sweet brother? I will kill them all when I have the chance! I don’t care if I die trying,” he cried aloud and stroked his bloody forehead.

Gren’s voice broke the silence. “Ryder. Ryder, I can help him, but that means you must let me turn him, and you. Remember, you have stopped me before on several occasions; am I correct? You wanted it but had to be positive your brother desired the same thing.”

“I know, but…” Ryder held onto his brother and raked his long locks with the tips of his fingers. Surely, if they waited too long, Ryland might die from his injuries. Besides that, Ryder desired the closeness with his brother and felt this to be the right opportunity for Gren to bring them closer together. He gulped hard and closed his eyes tightly, knowing that Ryland wasn’t keen on being changed into a vampire. Ryder inhaled deeply, and his heart thumped in his chest like a drum. Why, oh why, didn’t his brother want to be a vamp like he did?

Although his brother might hold it against him for the remainder of his existence, nothing would be as painful as losing his twin to the hands of mortal death.

“Fine, Gren. He will most likely hate my guts later, but…do what you have to do to save him. Make him, and me, yours. And please hurry!”

Gren flashed a wicked grin and knelt down, taking the battered body of Ryland close to his own. “As you wish, my love. And remember, from this point on, there is no turning back.” In moments, Gren opened his mouth wider, showing his fangs. He bit into the young man’s neck, taking what little human life he had left.

Ryder could only watch helplessly, knowing Ryland might never see his side of things. “Forgive me, my brother; please understand my plight. We are Gren’s now, and forever will be.”

Mon Amour Silver Star at All Romance!

Woot

Mon Amour is a silver star in 3 categories

Erotica Gay, Erotica Vampire, Erotica Paranormal

Blurb: Identical twins, Ryland and Ryder Durand have consummated their relationship but jealousy and concern about their personality clashes have brought problems to their seemingly perfect union. Will the brothers stay together despite the challenges?

All Romance

Smashwords

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Book Review: Faelon by AJ Kelton

Book Review: Faelon

AJ Kelton

Greetings readers. I recently read the book Faelon by AJ Kelton and I was super excited to do so. A book about a nephilim, a three thousand year old immortal who tries to live in modern day. Just the premise of it excited me, especially since I love stories about angels and demons. However, in my opinion, the story fell flat and because of a few of glaring errors, I can’t rate it above a 2.5.

First the positives. The author paints a beautiful picture of this angel, Faelon who’s been abused for centuries. His black wings, he’s half human, half angel and being chased by a demon called Cayman makes for an awesome story. Then there’s the other man, Jax, who’s a security guard, a historian who comes to know Faelon and once he gets over the initial shock of the black wings, seems to fall in love with him. Again, makes for a great story right? Well yes but I feel the author missed out on some great opportunities for a more enjoyable piece.

The negatives in my opinion were distractions for this book. The POV head hopping which happened way too often in the book. When the first occurred I had to go back and make sure I wasn’t seeing the wrong thing. Sort of took me out of the story. Also, I felt the characters fell short of being brilliant. In my opinion, Faelon and Jax weren’t complete. We’re beaten over the head with the fact Faelon is a sex slave, loves it rough, and seems to need this abuse to feel wanted. Since I’m not into extreme BDSM, some of the things Faelon went through troubled me. It’s not the author’s fault at all that it’s not my cuppa. However, my major problem was the character Jax and how the seemingly mild mannered security guard became a dom, doing things to Faelon that bordered on abuse. I got that Faelon was immortal and could take a lot of it but I felt some of the actions by Jax were forced. From what the author showed, he just didn’t seem like the kind of person to be doing these things. Perhaps easing us into his transformation with a couple of light acts then a gradual change to experienced dom would’ve worked better. Again, it’s only my opinion but once I got to the middle of the book, I felt like it was torture just for the sake of shock value. I found myself skimming through the sex scenes to get to the next part.

Lastly the very confusing turn of events at the end. He unites with his former master Delgorio because he’s terrified of the Cayman and asks for help. The tension between Jax and Delgorio is definitely there and I wanted to know more about their relationship. He seemed to leave as quick as he came which was disappointing. There would’ve been another opportunity for the plot to go deeper but instead the author didn’t explore that more.

I really wanted to like this book. It had promise and an angel who begs to be loved makes for a great novel but this story’s glaring errors and forced sex made me wish for the ending. That being said, I would still like to read the sequel if there is one. I want to know more about Faelon and how he gets away from the Cayman while trying to survive in the modern world with a human lover. Hopefully the author will do build on that more in the next story. If so, I'd gladly give it a look.

2.5 stars

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Blurb: Who knew that loving a Nephilim could be so dangerous.

Faelon, a 3000-year-old nephilim, fleeing a demonic master, found safety with the church. He has repaid their kindness by translating various artifacts. Father Donovan has watched as Faelon became a recluse, fearing those who would harm him.

Jax, wanting a change, moves to Salem, MA where he finds work as a churches security guard. Not believing that Faelon is a nephilim, he is forced to confront his own beliefs in the supernatural.

Can he learn to accept Faelon, and be the master he requires? Or lose the man he loves to the demons who would harm him.