BOOK RELEASE DAY FOR AJ ROSE'S, QUEERS!

I don't know about you but I have been looking forward to this book release! Today is the release of AJ' Rose's book, Queers!!!

Book Blurb:
Within her walls are stories. Love. Laughter. Tears. Lives lived to the fullest, and sometimes cut short before they really get started. She’s seen it all, from homelessness to super-stardom, boys dressed as girls, girls dressed as lamps, and boy, does she have secrets she could tell. Her one truth is that everyone who darkens her doors is accepted with open arms and a song.

Her name is Queers, and for one of L.A.’s few dueling piano bars, she has a lot of heart. On her stage, the beautiful voice of Duff McKinley rings so true he captures the shattered heart of his boss, Brad Mosely, who checked out of life three years ago. But even lifelong dreams have untold consequences.

Duff came to L.A. to chase his musical aspirations, but his best friend Garrett Slater accompanied him to chase a wish of his own: finding The One, his white knight. He believes Landon Kennedy fits the bill. Suave, handsome, and powerful in the music industry, Landon can show Garrett a life he's only seen in movies. But even as Landon helps Duff realize his dreams, he brings Garrett into a nightmare he may never leave, one from which Garrett's roommate, Jackson Moriarty, is determined to rescue him. If Garrett repays Jackson by seeing his own charms, so much the better.

Yes, within her walls, Queers has long history. Unrequited love, sinister intentions, fame, fortune, and a group of friends and lovers who would do anything for each other no matter the cost.

AJ Rose once again will blow your mind with his talent. This book will take you on a journey that will pull on every emotion you have! Do not miss this ride!

There is also a Book Trailer available to watch... If only to wet your whistle even more, check it out...

Remarkable doesn't even do this book justice, seriously! NOW! Where can you buy this awesome book?

It is available on Amazon, and soon (If not already by the time you read this) iTunes, B&N and ARe.
MAKE SURE YOU BUY THIS BOOK! It's worth every penny! I can't wait to hear what you think.

SMILE... It's Catching

A smile is catching, laughter is contagious. We all have bad days, some are so bad we think we will never be happy again. I've been there, along with 99% of the world. The other 1%, well, they are drug induced I'm sure. My hope with this post is by the time you reach the bottom, no matter how small, or pathetic you will be wearing a smile. So if this wacky ostrich didn't make you smile perhaps these will...

Puppies! I don't know many people - animal lover or not-  can resist a puppy! They are adorable! Cute! HAPPY!

Not a dog person? Well, okay. How about this cat that is literally scared to get out of the bag? I couldn't help but chuckle! It's freaking cute.

This one did it for me. He so damn thrilled to be chillin on a rock in the middle of nowhere, just being awesome!

Maybe you're upset because your favorite pants didn't fit this morning, but they did a week ago? For that I suggest going into your closet and doing this to all your hangers!

If you're walking down the street and you are happy but the person walking by you is frowning... Brighten that smile! Make their day better, if only for a minute.

Say what you want about Liz, even toward the end she looked great! Seriously, I always feel a little better when I clean up. Wine is always a plus, but really, lipstick, a nice outfit... It helps get you out of a funk.

If you're surrounded by people (Or just one) that makes you feel like all you have to offer isn't enough. Remember there is some one or a bunch of someone's who think you are enough, even better then enough!

If none of this has made you feel better, or hasn't even made you smile a little, then I dare you not to smile at this. It's far too adorable for words.

So go out there with your great or not so great smile and take today by the balls and BE as amazing as you are!

Author Spotlight Saturday : Theo Fenraven

Every Saturday I will be spotlighting an author I myself have read, loved and highly recommend. It's one thing to write A book that's great, it's another to write several and keep my attention. It's true. Many times I have fallen hard in love with a book and said, "I must read every word this person has ever written!"  Many times I have been disappointed. That said, Theo Fenraven is one of the authors that has never let me down in his writings.

Theo writes in the M/M genre and there is literally no two books that are alike. Some authors stick to the fluffy, happy, let's go love the world and spread glitter everywhere. Theo, keeps you on your toes with his ever changing tales. Personally, I love that. Gray is boring, and he is far from gray.

I review a lot of books on my goodreads account, as many of you see if you follow me there, and his are no exception. Each book takes me to a place that I never want to leave. A book hangover I believe you call it.

One thing I always worry about is, how will I know what books of his to read? Where can I find the author and keep up with their latest releases? What series has he written because I love them? Well, aren't you in luck?! Keeping track of Theo and ALL his books, and ALL his future projects isn't difficult at all. It's social media FOR THE WIN!

Goodreads is a good place to see what books he has written. (*Whispers* currently the Will Crawford books are unavailable)  So, if you want to see what he has written, series or other you can go here > Theo Fenraven's Goodreads .

Theo also has an Author's page on Facebook where you can follow updates on giveaways, happenings, and anything else. For that go here > Theo's FB Author's Page

Of course like most authors, he also has a website as well. He regularly posts here and you can also read about giveaways and up coming projects as well as gorgeous photography, he himself takes, and the thoughts of a talented mind. To subscribe to his Wordpress go here > Theo's Wordpress

Another difficult question many readers face when starting an author's work is, where do I start?
Personally, I would start with either Phoenix Rising or Transgression. Why? I think you can see the range of the author. Both are completely different but equally as entertaining and brilliant. Here are the blurbs for each:

Phoenix Rising:
New York City homicide detectives Artemis Gregory and Rachel Wayland are first on the murder scene of a beautiful young gay man, the third victim of a serial killer dubbed the Moon Killer by the department. Their investigation leads them to Talis Kehk, charismatic lead singer of the rock group Phoenix Rising. As the next full moon approaches, Artemis and his partner uncover clues that lead straight to Talis-even as Talis, exhibiting behavior Artemis finds strange indeed considering the circumstances, uses every means possible to keep Artemis close.

Artemis could never fall in love with a murderer, could he? Innocent or not, Talis has a secret... and it's about to change Artemis's world forever.

Transgression:

Zachary Fox can’t sleep.

His acting career is taking off. Public recognition is picking up. Now more than ever, he understands how key reputation is to his success. But his relationship with his co-star, Kris—arranged around publicity rather than genuine feelings—is suffocating him. She once understood his needs, but her demands are beginning to grate with every shrill order she gives.

Zach has a secret. The breakout star of a new medical series, he’s been hiding his orientation from co-stars, friends and family, the studio, and his fans.

On the recommendation of a friend, Zach seeks out Sky Kelly, a well-connected herbalist whose concoctions are natural magic, as is her stunning beauty. On the surface, she has it all: her own house, a thriving business, and good friends, but the things she had to do to get there are a time bomb ticking away, and when it goes off, she'll be teetering on the edge of a chasm that can put her right back where she started.

Sky has secrets. Like, she’s got a Y chromosome and the original equipment to go with it. Like being a highly paid escort. Like, if Zach is seen with her in public, it could ruin his career. Like someone becoming so obsessed with Sky, that obsession threatens them both.

Secrets... everyone is hiding something, and instead of finding The One, it could be The End.

So, if you're looking for a new author with a wide range and a lot of talent, I highly recommend you checking Theo Fenraven out. 

Wear Your Own Words

At one time in our lives we are victims of bullying. Maybe it happened when you were growing up by a sibling. Perhaps on the playground. Sometimes it happens later in life by colleagues. Of course there is the ever popular cyber-bullying where the predator is faceless.

Growing up I was poked at for being different, until I reached High School and life felt like it got a little better. As an adult my experience with bullies has come via the web. I used to write fanfiction, and that is where I heard the worst of the worst. It was also the reason I stepped away from writing in that venue and went elsewhere.

Each word dug a little deeper, each insult took a little piece of me. "Ignore it" people said to me. "Don't quit what you love, if you do they will win." First of all, I didn't quit what I love, I took it somewhere else. I did stay for quite some time. Fought the good fight, but in the end I was sore from the words that embedded themselves into my very soul. My heart hurt, and I was starting to resent the written word.

Do I look at it as quitting? Nope! I look at it as being brave. I took myself out of the line of fire in hopes to repair what I could. The scars will always be there, they will serve as a reminder that no matter where I am in my life, no matter what I do, what I write about or what I stand up for. There will always be someone who will try to shatter the pillars I stand on. Someone will try to demean me, and make my tales seem nothing more then dribble. My gender, my beliefs and my standards are on full display in the profession I hope to excel in.

I am sure if bullies all over the word were forced to tattoo the hurt they cause others, they would no longer see themselves in the light they so foolishly believe they stand in. A victim doesn't need to paint the words on their skin. It is there for all the world to see. In their sad smile, their pained expressions, and in the way they carry themselves. In short (well not really) do the world a favor. Wear the words you speak and write. It is in those words, you will define who you really are.

Cover Reveal - Fix You by, Carrie Elks

 

Release day: 2-12-14

"Richard, we had a baby."

31st December 1999. Seventeen-year-old Brit, Hanna Vincent, meets New Yorker, Richard Larsen; a Columbia student and step-son of scion Leon Maxwell. Divided by wealth, distance and a common language, an unconventional friendship grows between the two.

From London to New York, from 1999 to 2012, Fix You follows the story of quirky, music-loving Hanna and handsome, driven Richard as they fall in love and are torn apart. Their tempestuous relationship leads to an explosive revelation that threatens to destroy them both.

Emotional and touching, this is a story of second chances. Is their shattered love beyond repair?

EXCERPT:

EXCERPT

Prologue

May 12^th 2012

Richard had filled out nicely since she had last seen him. The thin cotton of his shirt clung to his biceps, skimming his taut abdomen as it tucked into his dress pants. His hips were still lean and tight, and she closed her eyes as she tried not to remember how they had felt between her thighs, as he had moved inside her, breathing softly in her ear, as she had moaned and whimpered and—

She shook her head. She wasn't standing in his large, oak-panelled office just to take a trip down memory lane, as pleasant as that might be. She had flown here, over three thousand miles, to tell him what he deserved to know.

Inappropriate laughter bubbled up in her throat as she considered the ridiculous melodrama of the situation. Her 17-year-old self would be rolling her eyes, wondering how this 29-year-old woman had managed to turn a seemingly promising life into a soap opera.

She glanced up at his face, looking at his lips, which had turned down into a deep scowl. His eyes had narrowed beneath his brows, and his straight, patrician, nose was slightly crinkled in response to her presence.

The contempt he felt toward her was radiating from him.

Hanna tried to keep her breathing steady, reminding herself that although she was in his office, on the penthouse floor of his building, this was her show.

She was in control.

If he viewed her with contempt now, God only knew how he would feel once he'd heard what she had to say. He had been an integral part of her life for so long—as a friend, a confidante, even a lover—but never before did he have the power to break her.

"As nice as it is to see you," he drawled, the tone of his voice making it patently clear that her being in his office was anything but nice, "I have a meeting in five minutes. Exactly what is it that you want?"

He had no idea, but this was it. Time to open her mouth and tell him what he needed to hear. Her arms suddenly felt heavy, and her fingers trembled; a physical manifestation of her nervousness. Her laughter was replaced by something more unsettling, as she tried to take in a deep breath and form the words that she had traveled all this way to say.

Her tongue darted out to moisten her lips. She watched his gaze move down to her mouth, staring at it with dark eyes, as her teeth drew in her bottom lip.

"Richard." Her voice was surprisingly strong. She could do this. She could tell him the truth, and then get the hell out of here.

Back on a plane.

Back home.

Back to him.

"Richard, we had a baby."

Author Bio:

Carrie Elks lives near London, England and writes contemporary romance with a dash of intrigue. At the age of twenty-one she left college with a political science degree, a healthy overdraft and a soon-to-be husband. She loves to travel and meet new people, and has lived in the USA and Switzerland as well as the UK.

An avid social networker, she tries to limit her Facebook and Twitter time to stolen moments between writing chapters. When she isn’t reading or writing, she can usually be found baking, drinking wine or working out how to combine the two.

Twitter: www.twitter.com/carrieelks

Facebook: www.facebook.com/carrieelksauthor

GoodReads link for the book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19236365-fix-you

When It's Out Of Your Mouth, It's Out In The World

The last 48 hours have been interesting to say the least. Madonna used the "N" word and called her son Dirty Soap, and Juan Pablo Galavis called Gay people, perverts.

Yeah, okay, that's the sum of it. Madonna, posted a picture of her "white" son boxing and said, "No one messes with dirty soap, mama said knock you out." And closed it off by using the "N" word. Juan Pablo Galavis basically said he doesn't think "They" should have a show promoting a love connection solely for bi-sexual, gay, or lesbian people. Said, it's a bad message for children, called gay people, perverts. I am sure you've all read it. If not, Google is your friend, embrace it.

OF COURSE, both celebrities (I use The Bachelor, Juan Pablo in that loosely) immediately retracted their statements. Juan basically blamed it on the fact, "English is not my first language." Really? No one proofread your words? Doubtful! Madonna said she's sorry she offended anyone, and removed the instagram photo. 

So, all is forgiven? We should just "PRETEND" we didn't hear it? Nope, doesn't work that way. Here IS how it works. THIS is the lesson I teach my kids... "When it's out of your mouth, it's out in the world." You and YOU alone are responsible for all you say and all you do. Your status in the world does not exempt you from responsibility.

Hate breeds hate. Plain and simple. You speak of what being a good role model is, maybe try acting like one. Here, in the real world if you insult a race, gender, orientation or lifestyle there are no PR teams writing up retractions. No bodyguards to protect you from the backlash. HERE? You face the repercussions of your stupidity.

In short, Shush your face. A LOT! Think then speak. Realize WORDS HAVE POWER!

Reviews for The Northstar Books, by Posy Roberts

Oh where do I even begin? One day my friend (already told you I get rec's from friends) told me to read Spark and Fusion by Posy Roberts. Flare wasn't released yet. So I did and... Oh My Heavens! Spark was exactly that. It just got your attention, and with an amplified grace hooked you into the lives of Hugo and Kevin. The journey they traveled to get to the present was rocky, heartbreaking and fantastic. I found myself cheering for them, crying with them and even cursing... A LOT!

Then came Fusion. Sweet Lordy Lordy! I think Kleenex's stock went up for a time while I read this. The passion, the strains all the characters faced in this book tore me apart. As sad as parts of it were, it was beyond realistic, and it forced you to see that life is full of imperfections but that love will always raise you up. When Fusion ended, my heart was sore. My eyes red, and of course I wanted MORE!!!

FLARE! This is the book that concludes Hugo and Kevin's journey and when it was finished it felt like losing a friend. All of the books tackled real world issues but Flare in particular made you open your eyes and see! Between legal struggles, societies acceptance and hatred you understand that it's not rainbows and unicorns. Sometimes its gray skies and raging bulls. Posy Robert's didn't skimp on anything here, and I can't commend her enough for that.

Every feel there is in the world will be felt throughout this series. I wanted to live in their world because through all the bad, they persevered and found the good, and it really is a series about the power of love. Outstanding series! One of the best by far.

Pasta, with a side of judgement please.

I sat in a diner this afternoon with my daughter. As we sat in our usual booth and goofed around waiting for our lunch, a man walked in and sat in the booth behind us. He was easily in his late 60's early 70's. He had a tattered blue baseball cap on, a navy fleece, and gray well worn pants. (I notice these things, yes) His phone kept going off to the tune of the General Lee's horn. Of course my daughter thought it was funny, and it took the man a few, but he got it to stop.

One of the waitresses went over to him and he proceeded to ask her questions. "How much is a side of pasta? And "Are the salad dressings the same prices?" In a very acerbic tone she gave him the answers he needed, and he responded with a smile and a thank you.

My waitress (Who is just awesome) brings us our food and we eat. The man's waitress brings him his salad and he then asks for an orange juice and a grapefruit juice. She was quite rude and said "You want both?" Again he smiled and said, "Yes, please." He got his drink and when he asked for an empty glass, he cut her off before she asked what for by saying. "I like to mix the two, that's why. thank you."

I asked my waitress why the other was being so rude, and my waitress didn't know but said she would keep an eye out.

After the man ate a plate of pasta and his waitress came over to see how he was, he asked for a second plate. Her response? "Are you sure? Because it's costly." This time the man's smile fell and he just said, "Yes I would like another, thank you."

As I was zipping my daughters coat to leave I looked over to the man who was leaving a tip on the table, and said, "You are a better person then me. I wouldn't tolerate anyone disrespecting me the way you have been today."

He smiled and I doubt I'll ever forget the words he said. "I'm judged by how I look, and dress. I asked about the prices because I'm thrifty, not because I'm poor. If she is having a bad day, I rather her be rude to me then cruel to another. I will take this burden for her."

Astonishing! It literally brought tears to my eyes. We, as a society judge. She saw a man who she assumed was poor, and would leave a bad tip or possibly dine and dash. For all she knows he's a wealthy businessman just watching his wallet. How sad it is we judge so easily?

Jude Ouvrard: Cover Reveal for Body Ink and Soul

Cover Reveal

Book: Body, Ink, and Soul

Author: Jude Ouvrard

Date of the cover reveal: January 15^th, 2014

Genre: Contemporary Romance / New Adult

Cover Designer: K23 Design.

Body, Ink, and Soul Blurp:

Phoenix Silverstone more commonly known as Nix, is a twenty-one year old that has finally discovered her freedom. After living under the strict rules and protection of her mother, Nix moved out with her two best friends in a quaint little Seattle apartment.  For the first time Nix is finally able to spread her wings and breathe. Together, they get a job working at a bar and for the first time everything is perfect.

Freedom, friendships, a great job and fantastic man on the verge of becoming hers. Tristan is the suave, intelligent, not to mention gorgeous law student that Nix has her eyes and heart set on. For the first time, she has her life together; that is, until her path crosses with Levi. The charming, tattooed and downright sexy bad boy that Nix knows she needs to avoid.

But when one of her friends moves out she is shocked to find that her new roommate is none other than Levi. Flirting. Desire. Undeniable temptations. Nix can’t deny the chemistry surging between them but she can’t forget her mother’s extreme hate towards bad boys.

Will Nix have the strength to listen to her heart? Or will her mother’s rules cost her everything?

About the author...

Jude was born and raised in a small village named Lacolle. She now lives in Montreal, Canada. She is the proud mother of a beautiful five year old son, Isaac and has spent the last twelve years with her boyfriend, Cedric.

French is her native language, but she prefers to write in her second language, English. She has a passion for books, both reading and writing them.

Also by Jude:

●                  

●       Under the sun

●                  

●       Wonderland

To learn more about Jude Ouvrard, here are her links:

Website/blog: www.judeouvrard.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/JudeOuvrard

Twitter: @JudeOuvrard @AuthorJude_O

Street Team: www.facebook.com/groups/judesbooks

Excerpt:

''Can I get you anything?'' I asked him, while taking all the empty plastic glasses off the counter.

''A smile. Give me that and you’ll get the biggest tip tonight.'' The slow seductive tone rolling off his shapely lips told me he wasn’t just fooling around. His green eyes were staring at me like I was dessert. This guy was hot and he knew it. The way his tousled light brown hair went every which way, hanging down onto his forehead, told me right away he didn’t care about his looks. He didn’t have to.

He wanted a smile? I shook my head. ''You don’t want a drink? Just water, maybe?''

''No, just a smile. You're the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen and it's just a smile I want.'' He brushed his hand through his hair, making it even more distressed.

I knew I was blushing and biting my lips in embarrassment. His eyes refused to stray from mine, pinning me in place. I smiled, but not because he asked.  No, this was solely because this very random man had pulled one out of me on his own. I saw the humor in his eyes. He slid fifty bucks out of his pocket and onto the counter. ''Thank you, Princess. You just made my night.''

He got up and walked away. I could see the hint of tattoos peeking out of his neckline and rolled up sleeves, but I was too astonished to call after him or say anything. He was wearing simple black converse, washed out jeans and a black long sleeve henley. There was something about him - mysterious and inscrutable. If he wanted to get my attention, well - he got it.

Who the hell was that? I kept asking myself as he walked away. I knew he was the guy Tyler had been excited to see, but I had never seen him around here before. I knew I would have remembered that piece of man candy.

He didn't give me his name and I didn't give him mine. Not that he had to ask - I had a name tag with my name on it. It was the strangest thing that ever happened to me. My eyes remained trained on him until he opened the door of the club and left. I found myself still watching the door, even after it was closed, like I wanted to chase after him – which was insane. I shook my head, willing myself to move on.

I began wiping the counter, pausing to watch Val entertain her groupies at the station next to me. As I turned to grab more lemons, my eyes were drawn again to the door. Tristan walked in with few of his friends. I had never seen Tristan here before and even after our dinner date tonight, I still didn’t expect it. I couldn’t tell if I was excited by the surprise visit or nervous about it. I felt like he was parading a bunch of his buddies around my bedroom, looking through all my dirty laundry. This was my home away from home and I wasn’t sure if I was ready to let him in—yet. Not to mention I was still shaken up from Mr. Mysterious.