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BLOG TOUR: “Stolen Dream” by Oliver Takely

BLOG TOUR

Book Title: Stolen Dream

Author: Oliver Takely

Publisher: MM Romance Press

Cover Artist: Emily’s World of Design

Release Date:  March 5, 2025

Tense/POV: Third person, dual POV

Genres: Contemporary MM Romance

Tropes: Forbidden love, first times, demisexual rep, found family

Themes: Second chance romance

Heat Rating: 4 flames

Length: 60 000 words        

It is book three of the Soho Knights Series. Books four and five are scheduled in 2025.

The book ends on a cliffhanger for the series, but not for the couple.

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In a world that tried to change them, love becomes their greatest rebellion.

Blurb 

At just eighteen, Paolo and Max meet at a conversion therapy camp. Abandoned by their families. left to endure literal hell on earth, their love is forbidden. Their secret romance grows and as they make plans to escape, they are brutally torn apart.

They both spend the next twelve years building lives in different worlds. Paolo in the vibrant heart of Soho, London, surrounded by his found family, and Max thriving as a successful criminal lawyer in the bustling streets of New York. Both of them believing they’ve lost the love of their life forever.

Max finds himself in London after defending a mobster, which leads to an offer he literally can’t refuse. Needing thinking time before his fate is sealed, he unexpectedly crosses paths with Paolo again. The spark between them reignites, yet their reunion is fraught with challenges, and even the magical backdrop of the holidays may not be enough for them to get their second chance at love. With Paolo’s sister at risk of suffering the same fate they endured, the stakes are even higher.

Stolen Dream is a tale of resilience, forbidden love, and the fight for a future that embraces who they truly are. Will they save Paolo’s sister in time, and can they find a way to be together, against all odds? Join them on this emotional journey of hope and redemption, where stolen dreams may just lead to a love worth fighting for.

Excerpt 

KC greeted Paolo with a big hug when he arrived. She was such a wonderful woman, who had been through more than all his brothers put together. The bravery it took for her to transition in the nineties had Paolo in awe of her.

            “What are you doing here on a Saturday?”

            “I’m meeting an . . . an old friend.”

            “Old boyfriend?” She smiled.

            Paolo felt his face heating. She leant forward and whispered to him.

            “Well, if it’s the guy who just walked in who looks like he wants to eat you, then I think I’ve got my answer.”

            Paolo spun around and there was Max. He hadn’t gotten a proper look last night with the shock. Max had always had a broad build, but now he was built like a rugby player, with wide shoulders and a tapered waist. His hazel eyes were as captivating as they had been twelve years ago. Max smiled at him, showing those perfect dimples in his pinchable cheeks. He was clean-shaven, unlike Paolo who’d had a short beard for the last five years. His face was too babyish when he was clean-shaven.

            “Can I give you a hug?” asked Max.

            Paolo was too choked up, so he just nodded, and Max wrapped his big, muscular arms around him. They were the same height, but even though Paolo had packed on the muscle over the last few years, Max almost smothered him – albeit in a good way. He was wearing a citrusy aftershave, and he could happily stay like this in Max’s arms forever.

            When the hug was bordering on being far too long for a public setting, they pulled apart and both smiled. Paolo gestured to a nearby table he’d claimed when he arrived. He made eye contact with KC, who gave him a warm smile and touched her heart. Paolo rolled his eyes, but he was smiling.

            “Thank you for seeing me,” said Max.

            Was he nervous? This wasn’t how he remembered him. Max had been the strong one when they’d been in the camp. It wasn’t just Paolo who looked up to him; it was everyone. Paolo wasn’t sure what to say. He felt tongue tied, so he grabbed a menu, passing one to Max. He knew the menu by heart, but Max didn’t need to know that.

            “Did you want to get something to eat?” asked Paolo. That was a safe conversation starter.

            “I am always hungry.”

            He smiled, and then a dark shadow appeared in his eyes. It was clear a memory had hit him. One they shared. Paolo needed to get things back on track. Today was not a day to go down memory lane.

            “Everything’s amazing here. KC is the best cook in the world.”

            “That’s a bold claim. I’ll have to let Mason know.”

            “Mason?”

            “He’s a Michelin starred chef in New York.”

            “How do you know him?”

            Max took hold of Paolo’s hand. It felt strange, yet familiar.

            “Mason’s just a friend. I’m not with anyone.”

            “That’s not . . . I didn’t mean . . .” Ugh, why couldn’t he get his words out?

            Perhaps sensing his struggle, Max suggested they order. He let go of Paolo’s hand and Paolo missed the touch instantly. How could this be happening? He’d not had butterflies or any of these feelings for twelve years.

About the Author  

Oliver Takely is a passionate MM romance author who revels in dark, edgy stories featuring complex, flawed characters. With years of writing experience and a creative day job, Oliver Takely is also an avid reader of MM romance, consuming 300 books in both 2023 and 2024. His favourite trope is enemies to lovers, but is also a sucker for a feel-good Christmas romance.

Originally from the north, Oliver now resides in the south of England with his husband and their beloved fur baby, who is treated like a princess, living their own happily-ever-after straight out of a romance novel. When not writing or reading, he enjoys holidays and indulging in lots of good food, because who doesn’t love a delicious combination?

Author Links

Website  |   Facebook  |  Instagram  

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NEW RELEASE: “Demon’s Past” by Shari Sakurai. Rafflecopter Giveaway Included!

NEW RELEASE 

Book Title: Demon’s Past

Author and Cover Artist: Shari Sakurai

Publisher: Farnhurst Publishing 

Release Date: March 7, 2025

Tense/POV: third person, alternating POV

Genres: MM Paranormal/vampires

Tropes: Friends to lovers

Themes: Coming out

Heat Rating: 1 flame     

Length: 77 000 words

It is not a standalone story, but you do not need to have read the other books in the series to enjoy it. 

It does not end on a cliffhanger.

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Immortality has its price 

Blurb

April 1889, Nagasaki, JAPAN

When apprentice merchant Thane Bremen travels with his family to Nagasaki, he is more excited about the exotic destination than studying his trade. A chance encounter with a local man gives Thane the opportunity to learn more about the culture of Japan. 

Kokawa Taku is unlike anyone Thane has ever met before. He is outgoing, charming, spontaneous and Thane finds himself instantly drawn to him. Taku opens Thane’s eyes to new experiences, and perhaps a different future to the one that is mapped out for him. When their friendship turns into romance, Thane struggles with his father’s expectations for him and how the society he is from would view his relationship with Taku. 

As they become closer, Thane learns that Taku is a vampire. With this, he begins to understand just what it means for them both. Taku will live forever, and Thane’s life will be over in a comparative blink of an eye. While Thane contemplates what it is to love the immortal, a disaster strikes that threatens to part them sooner than either of them thought was possible.

Excerpt 

“Those who come to worship at the shrine must first use the water basin to purify themselves,” Taku explained as he knelt in front of the structure. Thane watched as he used one of the wooden ladles available to wash his hands, left first and then right. He cupped some of the water to rinse out his mouth. He did not swallow the water and spat it out next to the fountain. Finally, he dipped the handle of the ladle into the basin to clean it. Thane did not hesitate in following his companion’s example. Taku smiled in appreciation of his actions. He then led the way up the path towards the main shrine.

Taku slipped his shoes off before climbing the steps. Thane followed him and unlaced his boots. This part of the shrine was called the Haiden – hall of worship – Taku explained. Thane looked around, amazement at the intricate detail of the hall filling him. There were beautifully crafted paper lanterns hanging from the ceiling, incredibly detailed religious carvings and inscriptions either on wooden blocks or paper.

“This is beautiful,” Thane stated softly.

“The haiden is open to the public for worship,” Taku explained. “The heiden – hall of offerings – is behind it and then the honden where the God is enshrined. The God enshrined here is Ebisu, the God of luck and fishermen, which is quite appropriate for Nagasaki.”

“Can we visit the honden?”

“It is most usually closed to the general public, but I do not see the harm in showing you.”

Taku was about to lead the way further into the shrine when he suddenly stopped.

“What is it?” Thane asked.

“There is someone outside.”

Thane had not heard anyone, however, he quietly followed Taku as he crept towards the edge of the veranda to retrieve their shoes.

“Who is it?” Thane whispered anxiously.

“The police,” Taku’s tone was casual, and he did not appear unduly concerned.

“The police!” Thane did not share his calm. “Why?”

“There have been instances where items have been stolen from the shrines. Someone must have noticed us going in and reported it as it is rather late for worship.”

“We are just looking around. Can you explain that to them?”

“They believe the thief to be a foreigner and considering opinion on the western influences it would not be good to be found here,” Taku slipped his shoes on and kept watch whilst Thane did likewise.

“What shall we do?” Thane could now clearly see a light from a candle. They were still closer to the torii gates but gradually the light was moving in their direction.

“Follow me,” Taku quietly stepped off the veranda. He led Thane around the back of the shrine and towards the perimeter fence surrounding it. Thane glanced doubtfully up at the wooden barrier. With the lights from the shrine behind them he did not know if he could see well enough to climb over.

Taku did not share his hesitation. He had to jump to catch hold of the top of the fence but did so with surprising ease. With a grace that Thane had feeling he would envy, Taku pulled himself up and over.

“Thane, come on!” he called. The voices were drawing closer now and it was only a matter of time before they were seen.

Thane was tall enough to be able to grip the fence without the need for the small jump. He scrambled up the side of it, but with a lot less grace than his companion. The shout that went up as Thane reached the top startled him. He heard a ripping of fabric as he lost his balance and landed in a painful heap on the safe side of the fence.

“Are you alright?” Taku enquired as he helped Thane up.

“Yes, thank you,” he carefully stood, feeling some discomfort from the landing but no serious injuries.

“Good because I believe that we may have to run,” Taku commented in amusement.

As Taku spoke, Thane heard the two policemen shouting again. He glanced down the street in the direction of the noise and saw that they had exited the shrine and were hurrying towards them.

“This way,” Taku took a hold of Thane’s hand and started pulling him away from the shrine.

Thane once more questioned the wisdom in fleeing, but he did not wish to get into any bother. His father might well put him on the first ship home if he did.

“Where are we going?” he asked. Even though Thane was following him, Taku did not let go of his hand. Thane did not consider himself an unfit man, but the pace that Taku set was faster than he was used to running. In fact, Thane was surprised that his feet did not leave the ground all together at the speed in which they were going. Thane almost tripped as Taku suddenly changed direction and pulled him in between two buildings. Thane felt his back hit the side of the first wooden structure. Taku was beside him, their shoulders touching as he gestured for Thane to remain pressed against the wall. Thane heard the two men running past their location. After a few minutes more he felt he could breathe a sigh of relief.

Thane cast his gaze downwards to Taku’s hand that still gripped his own. A spark of what he could only describe as adrenaline went through him as he stared at their entwined fingers. Thane felt the warmth of a blush on his cheeks at the sensation and he gently pulled away.

About the Author 

Shari Sakurai is a British author of paranormal, horror, science fiction and fantasy novels that almost always feature a LGBTQ protagonist and/or antagonist. She has always loved to write and it is her escape from the sometimes stressful modern life!

Aside from writing, Shari enjoys reading, watching movies, listening to (loud!) music, going to rock concerts and learning more about other societies and cultures. Japanese culture is of particular interest to her and she often incorporates Japanese themes and influences into her work.

Shari loves a challenge and has taken part and won the National Novel Writing Month challenge thirteen times!

Social Media Links

Blog/Website  |  Facebook

Twitter  |   Instagram  |  Goodreads

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NEW RELEASE: “Blade Broken” by Niranjan. Rafflecopter Giveaway Included!

NEW RELEASE

Book Title: Blade Broken (The Echelon Book 1)

Author and Publisher: Niranjan

Cover Artist: Artscandre

Release Date: March 4, 2025

Pairing: MM (MF minor)

Tense/POV: Third person/past tense/alternating PoV

Genres: Sword and Sorcery, Political Fantasy

Tropes: Assassins, spies, political intrigue. Not a romance. Has secret siblings, former friends turned enemies becoming lovers again, but it’s just a part of the story.

Themes: Political fantasy with morally grey and complex characters, themes of forgiveness, redemption, found family are present

Length: 75 504 words/335 pages

Heat Rating: No sexual content. Not a romance. Some kissing and fade to black

It is the first book in the series and is not a standalone book. 

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Universal Link

A spy lurking in the shadows, a nation on the verge of an invasion, a man desperate to protect his home.

Blurb

Lucian is the Blade of Castrial–the kingdom’s spymaster and first line of defence, lauded for his success in repelling an invasion from Garaner. But the war has left Castrial’s economy in shambles, and when the neighbouring kingdom of Sarian musters their armies and sends spies into Castrial, Lucian realises two things: they have a spy in their midst, and they can’t afford the cost of fighting off another invasion.

And if that wasn’t trouble enough, there is Alaric, the Shield of Castrial and the only man in the Echelon whose power is equal to Lucian’s. Returned from banishment like the vengeful spirit of their long-lost relationship, Alaric carries a deep-set grudge against Lucian, a grudge that may well be justified. 

Lucian’s desire to protect his nation is nearly equal to his wish to reconcile with Alaric, but if he cannot get his act together and convince the Shield to work with him, Castrial will fall. 

Blade Broken is a queer, sword-and-sorcery fantasy and the first book in The Echelon Series. If you love flawed characters, betrayals and redemption, and gritty worldbuilding with lots of political machinations, you will love this book.

Video Trailer on Youtube

Excerpt 

“You’re here,” the King said, waving Lucian and Alaric to their seats while Astra took her position behind him. “I was about to pronounce the sentence.”

Alaric was alarmed at the King’s tone. His Majesty looked angry, lips pressed together and face red. His form was stiff. 

“Your Majesty,” he said.

“I’ve never seen a prisoner behave as that man did today. Not only did he admit to committing the crime, but he also didn’t seem to think there was anything wrong with it!” The King’s hand gripped the sceptre set on to the side of his throne tightly. His voice was hard and cold. “He had no remorse for what he did. A human life was cut short, and he seems to think of it as no matter. Because the man was a commoner. As if that’s what matters!”

Alaric bit his tongue, stopped himself from speaking. Anything he might say now would cause more harm than good. Lord Giles was not the kind of man who deserved anyone’s sympathy. All the same, Alaric was worried about his family. The King had promised leniency, but with how Lord Giles behaved during the trial, how much could he depend on it?

Lucian seemed to be under some internal struggle himself. Alaric had to remember that Lord Giles’ family was as good as Lucian’s own now. If the King sentenced him to death or exile, he would have to arrange for Lucian to smuggle them out of Castrial. But with Sylvester compromised and not able to live in Garaner anymore, where could they go? There was always Ihweith, or another nation across the ocean which were on friendly terms with Castrial and where an immigrant Castrilian noble and his family would be safe. 

Why didn’t Lucian or Sylvester do it? Was it because they feared Alaric wouldn’t let go? That they thought his hatred of Lord Giles was so intense that he would pursue them no matter where they went? No other explanation presented itself and he couldn’t help how his lips twisted at the thought. 

He wished that Lucian had trusted him enough to know that he wouldn’t have pursued them if they had escaped. Not even Lord Giles. Did he really believe Alaric had become so vindictive?

The King made a gesture that opened the curtains that hid them all. He stood up and walked to the edge of the stage. 

“My dear subjects,” he said quietly, his voice amplified by a spell. “We have tried Lord Giles and have found him guilty of the crime he is charged with. He deserves the worst punishment for his crime, but his son, Sylvester has been selflessly serving Castrial for farials and deserves consideration. I exempt Sylvester Giles from the punishment meted out to his family. Lord Giles and his family are hereby sentenced to slavery for life, to be sold in public auction to the highest bidder within two days.”

He stepped back, the curtains slid back, and the spell dissipated.

Alaric couldn’t speak or move. Slavery. Public auction. He wasn’t sure if the King was being merciful or vindictive. It was better than death, better even than exile, but that didn’t make it all right. It would depend on the master, after all. 

And Keylin and Benjamin… Both of them were young, beautiful, and Alaric couldn’t be certain that they would be safe in any noble’s household. 

“Alaric,” the King said. “Stay. All the rest of you, leave.”

Lucian, Astra, and Jeron bowed to the King before leaving through the door at the back. The stage was set with so many wards that no one outside would be able to hear anything they speak in here, not even if they were listening at the door or used magical means to eavesdrop. 

“I want you to buy them.” The King’s gaze was hard. “Bid first. No one will bid against you.”

“Your Majesty!”

Not that he hadn’t thought of it, but he would not have expected the king to take a hand in an auction. 

“I know it revolts you, that there are no slaves in your household, but you have to do this.” The King paused. “I know I promised to be lenient, but this is the extent of my leniency. If he had shown any remorse…” The King shook his head, pressing his lips together. “All the same, the family is innocent and must be protected. There is no one else I can trust.”

About the Author  

An author and editor, Niranjan’s biggest ambition is to have a character named Garth in every book they write. Niranjan writes books rooted in mythical worlds, and their stories are often a combination of magic and futuristic technology.

When they are not writing or editing, Niranjan can be found cooking or just lying on their couch watching or rewatching C Dramas and writing fan-fiction.

Author Links

Blog/Website  |  BlueSky  |  Newsletter Sign-up

Ko0fi  Character art and Map available for free)

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one of five ebook copies of choice from the author’s backlist 

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BLOG TOUR: “Bud” by Russell J. Sanders

BLOG TOUR

Book Title: Bud

Author: Russell J. Sanders

Publisher: JMS Books

Cover Artist: Written Ink Designs

Release Date: December 1, 2024

Pairing: Transgender MF love story

Tense/POV: First person/past tense 

Genres: Contemporary interracial new adult romance

Tropes: Transgender love story

Themes: Transgender sexual awakening, acceptance of self and others

Heat Rating: No sexual content

Length: 65 000 words/336 pages 

It is a standalone book and does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

Buy Links

JMS Books  |  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

Is young dancer Shelly Sheridan transgender? What does that mean?  

Will Shelly’s new guardian, the uncle Shelly’s never met, understand? What’s next in Shelly’s life?

Blurb

Suddenly homeless, young dancer Shelly Sheridan, heartbroken at Christmas, is taken in by an uncle Shelly has never met and didn’t know existed. The burly ex-Marine uncle and his husband welcome Shelly with a shower of love and acceptance. Their friend Estrella, a retired ballet star, is enraptured by Shelly’s dancing.

Shelly makes a new friend the first day of school in this strange place but isn’t happy, feeling out of place and very different from the other boys. The new friend eventually suggests something Shelly didn’t even know was possible. Could Shelly be transgender?

When Shelly embraces this new idea, problems immediately arise. His former nanny doesn’t approve, and the trustee of his mother’s estate fights Shelly’s newly formed decisions.

With his new family’s unconditional love, Shelly hopes all will be well. It’s Christmas once again, and it will be a merry one if Shelly’s problems go away, and Christmas works its magic.

Excerpt

We barely got through the front door before Greta scooped me into her arms. 

I finally pulled away so I could look Greta in the eyes. I was gonna tell her to back off. I’d had enough of whatever she was doing — loving, laughing, crying, whatever. I had to get upstairs to text Mimi. I was gonna give her an earful for ruining our special time. But I saw the deepest heartache in Greta’s eyes, deeper than I’ve ever seen in anyone’s.

“I’m so sorry, Liebchen. She loved you so much. You were her treasure.” And then she thrust something into my hand. “Keep this. Keep it safe. She would want you to have it.”

I opened my fingers, and there was the ballerina necklace. Why are you giving me my mother’s necklace? And what is all this you’re saying?

And then I heard the booming voice. Unmistakable. My mother’s lawyer. Mr. Stern. Standing in the arch leading to our living room. Commanding the world in his dark gray three-piece suit. He musta had a closet full of those suits. He never dressed any other way.

Why is he here?

Looking over half-glasses, he ordered, “Come here, son.”

I’m not your son.

He held out his hand, his fingers gesturing I should follow him. His face was stern, like his name, not a trace of a smile. Greta gave me a nudge in his direction. I followed him into the living room. He pointed toward the sofa. “Sit.”

Greta, right behind me, lowered me onto the soft sofa cushion. She sat next to me, closely — like she was protecting me. Shawn too, who I had forgotten was even there, followed and sat in the chair facing us. Mr. Stern towered in his dark suit, his grim face hovering. That face didn’t bother me. He always looked like that. Angry.

“Sheldon, I have some news for you,” he said. “I don’t know how to say this, but I’ve always felt bad news is like a Band-Aid. Yank it off, and it doesn’t hurt as much. So I’m just going to say it.” He paused — a long time.

What is all this yank it off stuff, if he isn’t going to tell me? It can’t be as bad as he makes out. My mother probably is going to be gone longer than the two days Greta said she’d promised.

“Son, your mother’s car slid out of control tonight. She was going up the mountain, the road must have been more slippery than she planned for — who knows? — and she lost control.”

What? I yelped. “What hospital is she in? Take me there. Now.” The anger I wanted to text her was gone, replaced by worry.

Mr. Stern held his hands up, palms out. He patted the air like he was motioning for me to sit, although I hadn’t gotten up, and he was not even close enough to touch me. Greta put her arm around me. Even Shawn, I noticed, looked sad.

“Boy, I’m sorry. Your mother’s dead.”

Uh-uh. Not possible. Mimi’s in Park City. She’s at a client meeting.

“You hear me, son? Amelia died tonight.”

“No,” I lunged at him. “You’re crazy. My mother’s with her client. She made Shawn take me to the ballet. Very important meeting.” I beat his body with both fists until I suddenly stopped. I stood a moment. “Somebody’s told you a lie, Mr. Stern.”

Mr. Stern was playing a joke or he’d been given bad intel, as they say, or something, at least, was wrong, very wrong. My mother was not dead.

“Sheldon,” he said, “you’ve got to face it.” As he pushed me back to the sofa, he said, “Your mother, Amelia Sheridan, is gone.”

Greta leaned over and talked in my ear. “It’s true, Liebchen. I wish it weren’t, but it is.”

Greta would never play a trick on me like that. If she said it was true, it was.

I screamed. A blood-curdling wail. A scream that coulda woke the dead. Neighbors miles around musta heard it.

When I stopped, I stopped. I wasn’t wasting another tear because it wouldn’t bring my Mimi back. I remember thinking, “Lord –” I didn’t even believe in God “– please put my life back together. I’ll go to church. I’ll be the best little Mormon boy I can be. Just bring Mimi back to me.”

But God wasn’t listening.

About the Author  

A life spent in Texas led to a relocation adventure, and native Texas author Russell J. Sanders now resides in Las

Vegas, Nevada. He and his husband were compelled to set out for parts unknown, and that led them to Vegas, where they are supremely happy. But they don’t stay put. They’ve traveled the world, journeying to England, France, Italy, Japan, India, Bali, Jakarta, Toronto, Quebec City, Nova Scotia, Vancouver, Alaska, and Hawaii. And his novels are infused with locations as near as Ft. Worth, Chicago, Houston, and Las Vegas and as far away as Halifax. Who knows where he will lead readers next?

But one thing is known, there will be Mexican food. Russell’s on a quest to check out the Mexican cuisine in places both near and far. The not-so-good he has tried was in Wyoming; Jakarta, Indonesia, though, has some pretty decent enchiladas. The quest is to try, not to always be satisfied at what is found. So this Mexican food loving teacher, actor, director, singer, chef, and author loves adventure. And mostly, Russell’s goal is to tell the world, through his writing, that we are all put on this earth to love one

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SERIES TOUR: “The Christopher Books” by Stephen G. Hardy

SERIES TOUR

THE CHRISTOPHER BOOKS by Stephen G Hardy

 LGBTQ+ Contemporary/Literary fiction with a speculative element

Christopher Dunn is a young man who possesses unique qualities that draw people to him. In return, everyone who meets him is changed for the better. Everyone could use a Christopher in their lives.

The three books in the series need to be read in order.

Overall Heat Rating for the series: 2 flames

Follow Christopher as he explores various types of relationships

and the impact he has on the lives of others.

BOOK DETAILS

BOOK 1

Book Title:  Search for Complete

Cover Artist: Ryan Mulford

Length: 83 00 words /380 pages

Release Date: June 4, 2023

Pairing: MMF

Tense/POV: 2 POV’s in the first person

Genres: LGBTQ+ Contemporary/Literary fiction with a speculative element

Tropes: Unrequited love

Themes: Interpersonal relationships, asexuality

It can be read as a standalone story, but it is part of a series.

It does not end on a cliffhanger.

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Buy Links – Available in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon US   |  Amazon UK

Blurb 

“Why do I get the feeling that Christopher is the type of man that would make the perfect husband for any woman and, at the same time, the perfect wife for any man?” Laura says shortly after Christopher begins his new job at the TV station. Laura’s statement would turn out to hold more truth than she could imagine. No one who meets Christopher, especially not Laura, as well as David, a gay man he meets at a party, understands what it is about him that draws them to him. They also don’t realize that Christopher is searching for something, a search complicated by their desires for him.

Awards: 2024 International Impact Book Award winner for LGBTQ+ Literary Fiction; The BookFest Awards, Fall 2023- Honorable mention LGBTQ+ Literary Fiction

BOOK 2

Book Title: The Price of Happiness

Length: 83 000 words/372 pages

Release Date: November 24, 2023

Tropes: Unrequited love 

Themes: Interpersonal relationships, trans

Tense/POV: 2 POV’s in the first person

 This is the second book in the series and the first has to have been read.

It ends on a cliffhanger.

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Blurb

As Search for Complete left off, the birth of his twins had just completed Christopher. However, though he has what he had searched so long for, he now must deal with the associated costs, namely the unraveling of his relationship with Laura, the mother of his twins. The birth of the twins should have brought Laura joy, yet, instead, she finds herself on an intense emotional rollercoaster. Laura resents Christopher’s happiness—resents that he is a better mother than she is. But most of all, Laura resents that the twins are Christopher’s spitting image—nowhere does she see herself in them. Christopher fears his happiness in becoming a father has become Laura’s undoing. As he tries to help her adjust to the reality of their situation, Laura struggles to find herself in the tangled mess of their relationship.

In The Price of Happiness, Stephen Hardy has created a profound and moving novel on the themes of parenthood, identity, love and loss—and the cost of getting what we want.

BOOK 3

Book Title: When the Sun and Moon Touch

Length:  85,000 words/397 pages

Release Date: March 29, 2024

Genres:  LGBTQ+ Contemporary Fiction, M/M Romance

Tropes: MM relationships/romance

Themes: Gender identity, asexuality, interpersonal relationships

Tense/POV: 2 POV’s in the first person

The stories need to be read in order. This book picks up where book two left off.

This book does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

Buy Links – Available in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon US   |  Amazon UK

Blurb 

Christopher has settled into life as a single father to his twins, Loren and Christine. Content with his life, he is contemplating the imminent return of their mother Laura, who has been traveling through Europe for nearly a year, when he meets Benjamin, a direct descendant of the sun. Suddenly, his contentment is upended as he tries to understand the reason for their meeting. Despite what Benjamin says, that they are meant to be together, 

Christopher initially tries to hold Benjamin at arm’s length, believing that he is only to be for Benjamin what Joseph was to him—a friend and mentor. 

Excerpt

Opening scene from book 3: When the Sun and Moon Touch

Their laughter brought me great joy as I watched Loren and Christine mount the short flight of steps and slide down the slide on their behinds. They were quite independent, except for each other, even at the age of two, and had refused my assistance. While they romped, I sat on the bench to watch and enjoy what had turned out to be a lovely day for the end of March. In this moment I felt as though I had not a care in the world.

  The sound of an email arriving on my phone startled me. Pulling it from my jacket pocket, I was surprised to see it was from Laura, as it was rare to get one from her.

Christopher

I am planning on returning at the beginning of May. Please let the rental company know they need to have the tenants vacate by the end of April. Thanks.

Laura

  That was it. There was nothing about how she was doing or what she planned to do upon her return. She did not even ask after the twins. But then she never asked about them. I tried not to read anything into this, but it was not easy. 

It had been nearly a year since Laura had left our children in my sole custody while she backpacked her way around Europe in order to find herself, something I had supported both emotionally and financially. She never let on how she was doing in any of her very short emails. And now, she was coming back. 

I put my phone away and looked at the twins, thinking about what Laura’s return could mean for us. Would Laura still feel the same way about things as she had when she left: that the twins belonged to me and not to her?

“Excuse me?” 

 Blinking at the sound of someone’s voice, I looked up to see a handsome man looking down at me with grey-green eyes that were all the more striking given his dark coloring. Suddenly, something flitted within his eyes, and I caught my breath. Could it be? Composing myself, I said, “Hello, may I help you?”

“Hi. No. I,” The stranger paused, suddenly flustered, “Sorry to disturb you, but are those children playing on the slide yours?” he blurted out.

“Yes, they are.”

“I thought so. They look just like you.” He held out his hand. “My name’s Benjamin Johnson.” 

“I am Christopher Dunn,” I replied, taking his hand and then indicating the place beside me on the bench, “You may join me if you wish.” I had to find out if what I had seen was indeed there.

Benjamin sat beside me, looking down at his hands while I looked at him. Looking up, he seemed about to say something and then stopped.

“Yes?” I prompted.

“Yes, what?” He stammered.

“Sorry, I thought you were going to ask me something.”

“Um, I was, but never mind.”

“No, please. Tell me what you were going to say,” I said, giving him a small smile of encouragement.

“Well, and I know this will sound ridiculous, but I had this weird feeling that something led me to you. God, I’m sorry. That sounds like some bad pickup line,” Benjamin said, laughing to cover up his embarrassment. Even with his dark skin, I could tell he was blushing.

“I do not think it sounds crazy at all.” I turned to face Benjamin, giving him my full attention. “Tell me more about this feeling.”

“I don’t know that there’s anything more to tell.”

“I think there is and would like to hear it,” I said, staring intently into his eyes, still amazed by what I saw there. What were the chances that I would meet someone like Joseph here in Balboa Park, seemingly by chance? But no, Benjamin had been guided to me if his statement was true.

“Um, okay, well, I was walking through the park and felt this pushing sensation against my back whenever I stopped to look at anything. It continued until I saw you.”

“Has there ever been another time you felt this?” I asked, not moving my eyes from his face.

“No, I don’t think so.”

“I see.” For some reason, I did not believe him. “I take it you just moved to San Diego.”

“How did you know?”

“Your accent, for starters.”

“Oh, yeah. I guess that is a giveaway. I keep forgetting that here, I have an accent. I moved here in mid-January from Atlanta.”

“Was there a special reason for the move?”

“A job.”

His words surprised me. “Oh. Had you been looking for a new job?” I said, recalling that I had moved to San Diego for a similar reason.

“Actually, no, I hadn’t been looking. I got a call from a recruiter and . . .” Benjamin paused.

“And?” 

“Sorry. I just remembered that when I got the call about the job, I felt something was compelling me to take it. Kind of like what I described to you just now about being guided to you. But that must have been my imagination as well.”

“I see. You felt yourself being pushed to move here, and you felt the same sensation leading you to me,” I said, more to myself than to him.

“Crazy, isn’t it?”

“On the contrary, Benjamin, I find it very plausible.”

“Are you saying that I felt that desire to take the job here in order to meet you?”

“It is entirely possible,” I replied, still marveling at the coincidences of our experiences.

“But what possible reason could there be?”

“That remains to be determined.”

About the Author 

Stephen Hardy was born in the San Francisco Bay Area but grew up in the Pacific Northwest. His career as a fashion designer took him back to San Francisco before he headed to New York City, where he met his husband of twenty years. Tiring of the hectic pace of the fashion industry, Stephen gave up his career to become a stay-at-home dad for his and his husband’s two adopted sons and a quiet life in Connecticut. Now residing in Phoenix, Arizona, and with the kids grown, Stephen returned to university, where he rediscovered his love for writing. His focus is on contemporary fiction, examining social issues regarding gender, sexuality, and relationships. Search for Complete is his first novel.

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Continue ReadingSERIES TOUR: “The Christopher Books” by Stephen G. Hardy

NEW RELEASE: “Now Comes the Dark” by Thom Collins

 

NEW RELEASE

Book Title: Now Comes the Dark

Author: Thom Collins

Publisher: Pride Publishing / Entwined Publishing

Cover Artist: Claire Siemaszkiewicz

Release Date: February 11, 2025

Pairing: Contemporary Dark MM Romance

Tense/POV: Third person

Genres: Thriller/Mystery/Suspense

Tropes: Instant lust, serial killer, community

Themes: Erotic thriller

Heat Rating:  4 flames  

Length: 63 000 words

It is the first book in a new series, but works as a complete standalone

It does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

Buy Links

Universal Link |  Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

Two strangers fuelled by desire, and a killer consumed with lust.


Blurb

Roman Ballentyne is forced to make some changes. The city he loves is no longer safe. Tensions are high as a psychotic killer preys upon the LGBTQ community. Five men have been murdered in the last year. Every encounter is a risk. Anyone could be next. The Viaduct was once the shame of Blyham, an illicit club filled with private booths and dark rooms, sleazy in the extreme. Now it offers a secure space to hook up when it’s too dangerous to take a stranger home.

Mallon Garnier catches Roman’s eye. He’s moody and mature and the hottest man in the club, but as Mallon pairs up with someone else, Roman thinks he’s missed his chance. When Roman is the victim of a hate crime at the end of the night, Mallon is his saviour, taking on his attackers with savage efficiency. Their attraction is immediate and intense. Roman knows it’s wrong to go home with a stranger, but what harm can there be from the man who saved him?

The encounter is the start of an intense and passionate affair. But as the murders continue, Roman learns Mallon is keeping a deep secret, and the killer is closer than he thinks.

Excerpt 

Roman stared at the man who had saved him as they drove away. He tried to speak, but there were no words. His throat was paralysed.

“Come on,” the stranger said. “Before their egos get the better of them and they circle around for another shot.”

“The police,” Roman gasped at last. “You called the police.”

“No. I didn’t have time. And it turns out, I didn’t need them.” He took a gentle grip of Roman’s arm and led him back down the road. “Come on. The New Inn will still be open. We need to get off the streets for now.”

The man walked fast. Roman had trouble keeping up with him and couldn’t stop from looking over his shoulder to see if his attackers were following. The road was clear.

“Thank you,” he said at last. Now that the shock of the ordeal was sinking in, he felt a growing weakness all through his body. I could have died there. At best he’d have faced a trip to the hospital to fix several broken bones. Those men had been serious, and though he hadn’t paid attention to all the hate crimes that had occurred in Blyham, he knew how badly beaten the survivors had been. And five men hadn’t been lucky at all.

“Mallon,” the man said. “My name is Mallon. I couldn’t stand by and watch them get away with that.”

“Thank you,” he repeated. “I’m Roman. How…how did you do that? There were three of them. That could easily have ended differently.”

“Boxing. Boot camps. I’ve been a fighter since I was a boy.”

The New Inn was fifty yards ahead. Roman saw a group of customers outside, and relief rushed through him. People. His kind of people. They were safe—for now, at least.

He glanced at Mallon as they walked. His gaze was fixed in front. A man with purpose and determination. His expression was deadly serious, his jaw taut.

The New Inn was the most traditional of the bars in the village, with old wooden floors and dark wood panelling. The long, original bar led through to a more recent extension and conservatory with a beer garden. The DJ played a selection of songs from the 1970s and ’80s, while the clientele of older gays stood around chatting. The bar area was packed. Mallon guided Roman through the crowd to the near-empty beer garden. Efficient heaters kept the night chill at bay.

“Stay here,” Mallon said, releasing his arm once Roman was seated. “What do you want to drink?”

“Vodka. Diet Coke.”

Mallon nodded and left him.

Roman wrapped his arms around himself and shivered, despite the warmth. Fuck. He’d never experienced anything as frightening in his entire life. Like any gay man, he was used to homophobia, but the abuse he’d experienced in the past had always been verbal—name calling and hateful comments. This was the first time he’d been threatened with physical danger. And if Mallon hadn’t turned up when he did? Roman shuddered and his heart raced again.

About the Author 

Thom Collins is the author of the Jagged Shores series and the Anthem Trilogy as well as numerous standalone novels and novellas. 

His new series Basic Instincts launches in spring 2025 with the novel Now Comes the Dark.

Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age, but in 2013 he realized cruising is the best way to see the world.

Check out his website for news updates and a free ebook The Night

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BOOK BLAST: “And Hubby Makes Three: A Tragically Fabulous Love Story” by Michael McMhale

BOOK BLAST

Book Title:  AND HUBBY MAKES THREE: A TRAGICALLY FABULOUS LOVE STORY

Author: Michael McHale

Publisher: Hennessey House Publications

Cover Artist: MSM Graphics

Release Date: December 4, 2024

Pairing: MM

Tense/POV: Third person/past tense

Genres:  LGBTQIA+ Romantic Comedy

Tropes: Gay best friend, family

Themes: Best friend saves friend’s wedding and makes her dreams come true

Length: 21 739 words/164 pages

It is a standalone book and does not end on a cliffhanger.

Heat Rating:  1 – 2 flames

Goodreads  

Buy Links – Available in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon US  |  Amazon UK

Best gay friend saves his girlfriend’s wedding from becoming a disaster

while adding a lot of his own fabulous flare

Blurb 

When Wendy is horribly abandoned by her fiancé Bruce just days before her dream wedding, her fabulous gay best friend Mitch steps in to help save the day! What happens next is a plethora of comical miscommunications that lead to one of the most colorful weddings of our time that would make even Martha Stewart proud as Mitch, along with his life partner Kevin and bigger than life friend Bob, rush to make Wendy’s dreams come true. And maybe even some of Mitch’s dreams?

Excerpt 

Chapter Twenty-Three: Divine Intervention

The elderly priest had been looking forward to his mid-morning snack with the kind of anticipation usually reserved for Christmas morning. He’d assembled the perfect array of treats on his tray, humming contentedly as he made his way down the cathedral aisle. 

That’s when Wendy burst in, tears streaming down her face, and dove into the confessional.

The priest looked longingly at his snacks, then skyward with a resigned sigh. The Lord worked in mysterious ways, particularly when it came to interrupting a much needed snack 

time.

“Father, forgive me, for I have sinned.”

“You don’t mind if I eat, do you?”

“Excuse me?”

“I haven’t eaten all morning. I’m starving. Please, I

promise it won’t interfere.”

“Uh, okay… I mean, it is your house and all, so…”

“Thank you,” he managed around a mouthful of

sandwich. “So, tell me my child, what is troubling you?”

“Well, I believe I may have caused my fiancé to 

stumble.”

“Hmmmm… How so?”

“By marrying my husband!”

The priest nearly choked on his snack. “By marrying your…? Wait! Didn’t you marry your fiancé?”

“No. I married my best friend.”

“Oh, that’s lovely. One should always marry their best friend.”

“But I was supposed to marry my fiancé.”

“What’s wrong with marrying your best friend?”

“Well, aside from the fact that he’s gay, and already has a life partner, nothing I guess.”

“Ah, so your fiancé is gay?”

“No, no. My husband is gay. My fiancé is straight.”

“I see.” (he didn’t) The priest set down his sandwich, sensing this might require his full attention. 

“So, did you marry him to ummm… change him?”

“No, I married him because my fiancé told me to.”

“Does your fiancé know that he’s gay?”

“My fiancé isn’t gay! My husband is gay!”

“Okay, okay. So… what was the question again?”

“I believe that my marrying Mitch…”

“The gay best friend…”

“Right.”

The Priest was so proud of himself, “See, I’m catching on.”

“Good. Now, I’m afraid that my marrying Mitch may have caused my fiancé, Bruce, to stumble. It was a joke, you know? I just wanted to go through with the wedding, and when Bruce wouldn’t, Mitch said he would, so…”

“The stumbling part… let’s get to the stumbling part.” He picked up his sandwich with empty high hopes.

“Right. Well, I found him with another woman!”

“I thought you said he was gay?”

“No. My husband’s gay! Not my fiancé. Ya know, I thought you were catching on? Maybe you shouldn’t be eating while we do this…”

The priest set down his food with a heavy sigh that suggested he was reconsidering his vocation.

“So, what should I do?”

He took a fortifying gulp of milk before delivering his verdict. “Go to him.”

“Who? Which one?”

“Your gay husband. Your straight fiancé. Your second cousin’s lover! I don’t care! Just go! Go to one of them. Go to both of them! Go to none of them, but please, I beg you — just go! Oh, and you are forgiven!  Say ten Hail Mary’s and five Our Fathers.  Now Go! Go! Run like the wind!”

As Wendy left the confessional in a daze, the priest returned to his interrupted snack, making a mental note to suggest that the seminary add a course in modern relationship dynamics. Clearly, the traditional marriage counseling training wasn’t covering all the bases anymore. At least the sandwich was good. 

Though he had a feeling he’d need something stronger than milk to process this particular confession.

About the Author 

A storyteller across multiple mediums, Michael McHale has entertained and educated audiences for over three decades.

From writing for the iconic TV series Power Rangers to his LGBTQ+ web series The Queerburgs (on YouTube), to bringing his real-life story to life to the big screen with the short film Lena’s Dance to creating more than 100,000 riddles and clues for over 20,000 mysteries through his educational company Mysteries By Mike, his creative footprint spans television, film, education, and literature.

Known in Hollywood as the go-to party planner for celebrity children’s events, he’s authored multiple books including two children’s titles that includes an insider guide to Hollywood entertaining. His latest novel, adapted from a screenplay he wrote in 1997, was born from a conversation about marriage equality long before it became reality – a reality he now shares with his husband Bob, celebrating 21 years of marriage in Los Angeles.

With the upcoming YA series MURDER HIGH SCHOOL: DETENTION CAN BE MURDER! in development, McHale continues to expand his literary universe while infusing his work with the authenticity that comes from being a 35-year AIDS survivor (Victor) and dedicated LGBTQ+ activist. His storytelling celebrates life, love, and chosen family with equal measures of humor and heart.

When not writing or planning spectacular events, he can be found at home with Bob, their mischievous pug Gabby Rose, and their trio of cats – Princess Charlotte, Rascal, and Marley – plotting his next story or party, whichever comes first.

Early readers are already calling his latest novel ‘an instant gay classic’ with strong potential for adaptation as a Netflix limited series.

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BLOG TOUR: “How to Win a Million Dollars and Beep Glitter” by Luke Stoffel

BLOG TOUR

 

Book Title: How To Win a Million Dollars and BEEP Glitter!

Author: Luke Stoffel

Publisher: Cinderly

Cover Artist: Luke Stoffel

Release Date: February 1, 2025

Pairing: MM

Tense/POV: past tense/first person

Genres: Contemporary, Humor, Fictionalized Memoir

Tropes: Coming-of-Age, Flawed Hero, Small-Town Dreamer, Cultural Satire, Underdog Story

Themes: Coming out, Resilience, Self-Discovery, 80s Nostalgia, Hope and Optimism

Heat Rating: 2 flames

Length: 72 000 words/ 263 pages

It is standalone not a series, but it has a related book coming in 2026.

It does not end on a cliffhanger.

Goodreads

 

Buy Links – Available in Kindle Unlimited

Amazon US | Amazon UK

 

 

How To Win a Million Dollars and BEEP Glitter!
A Mostly True Misadventure

 

Blurb
How to Win a Million Dollars is a madcap, self-deprecating, laugh-out-loud coming-of-age story that reads like David Sedaris meets Heartstopper, told as Ready Player One. It takes readers on an adventure through the wildly inventive, sometimes-questionable, but always entertaining schemes of a boy who would do anything to make it big.

Growing up as a gay Catholic schoolboy in a tiny Mississippi River town surrounded by cornfields, Luke’s imagination was constantly set on fire by million-dollar daydreams and DIY hustles. Whether it was hunting down the missing Cap’n Crunch or gaming McDonald’s Monopoly, no scheme was too ridiculous, no shortcut too far-fetched. With his trusty Hustler bike and a mountain of determination, Luke didn’t just dream—he plotted.

Set in the 1980s, this is the story of a kid with a knack for scamming, hustling, and occasionally crashing and burning—all in the pursuit of that elusive big win. From navigating a Catholic school playground full of bullies to trying to “make it” out of a blue-collar family, Luke was always on the move, cooking up his next big adventure. Dragging his little sister—turned faithful sidekick—into trouble at every turn, her sweet voice was always in his ear, making us wonder: is he conning her, or is she saving him from himself?

As Luke grew up, so did the schemes—transforming into a Broadway Cinderella story of sorts, ditching it all for the artist’s life in Paris, and even getting cursed by a vengeful Hawaiian god. With each crazy plan, the stakes got higher, the twists got weirder, and Luke had to ask himself the big questions: Can you beat the system, or will the system beat you? And what do you do when your dreams—and all your wildest schemes—start to crumble?

Through hilarity, heartbreak, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream, How to Win a Million Dollars explores the glittering highs and crushing lows of chasing success in a world shaped by Reaganomics, dyslexia, and the crumbling façade of opportunity. From paperboy scams to glitter-filled art shows, this story is proof that while everything can fall apart at any moment, the journey—chaotic, messy, and wildly imperfect—is the real prize. And maybe, just maybe, there’s still a million-dollar dream out there, waiting to be won.


Excerpt
Chapter 1: Cereal Entrepreneur

The first time I tried to win a million dollars, it was the sweltering summer of 1985, and the Mississippi River was swollen and threatening to spill over its banks. The town was on edge, but thanks to the giant quarry wall my grandpa helped build back in the ‘50s, we were safe from the river’s fury. It was during that unforgettable summer when Cap’n Crunch went missing, and panic spread across the nation like wildfire.

Supermarkets were packed with towering displays of Cap’n Crunch, a mountain of yellow and blue boxes stretching to the ceiling. But when you looked up, there was no Captain. His jovial face had vanished, leaving behind nothing but dotted lines and a big question mark. He had disappeared, zeroed out. Zoinks! What was I to do?

The commercials made it sound so simple: find the Captain, restore him to his cereal kingdom, and win ONE MILLION DOLLARS. For a kid like me, the stakes couldn’t have been higher. A million dollars wasn’t just a number—it was a golden ticket, a way out of this tiny Mississippi River town.

Every Saturday morning, I’d sit in my parents’ living room—a shrine to America’s Bicentennial celebration. The royal blue carpet stretched wall to wall, its plush fibers worn thin in front of the TV. A deep red couch commanded the room like a throne, while gold curtains depicting Revolutionary War scenes framed the windows. It was like 1776 had crashed into 1980s suburbia, and somehow, we were still stuck suspended in between.

As my brothers and sisters tormented each other in the background, I was glued to the TV. The old box hummed as commercials blared, demanding kids like me solve the mystery, save the Captain, and claim the prize. The urgency of it all buzzed in my chest, electrifying the air around me. To a seven-year-old like me, a million dollars wasn’t just thrilling—it was everything. It meant a chance to escape this town, this life, and find something more.

In the afternoons, when the noise at home became too much, I’d head for the bluffs. The familiar path wound through tall grass that swayed gently in the breeze, the green hills rolling endlessly toward the horizon. I’d climb to my favorite perch and sit there for hours, the town spread out below me like a miniature toy train set. The limestone clock tower stood proudly at the center, surrounded by the river, the factories, and the steeples of the churches. Everything looked so small from up here, but somehow, it felt even smaller at eye level.

You see, up close, the town was just a second-rate version of Main Street USA, stripped of all the charm and magic of Disneyland. Most of the families here were like mine—working-class and stuck. I lived on the North End, what people would call the wrong side of the tracks, where factory workers like my dad scraped by.

I was a short, scrawny kid with wavy dishwater blond hair, wearing tattered dungaree shorts that were practically a second skin during the summer, their faded denim streaked with dirt and grass stains. My skin was golden tan from hours in the sun, but my legs were a patchwork of scars from chigger bites I couldn’t stop picking. Sitting cross-legged on the warm earth, absently scratching at the bites, my mind churned, methodically piecing together a plan. The Captain was missing. My ticket to freedom was hidden somewhere out there, and all I had to do was find it. Yet from this vantage point, the possibility of something greater still felt wildly out of reach. A million dollars meant escape, and as I sat on that bluff, staring out at the endless rows of cornfields, I swore to myself I was going to find it.

Each week, I’d beg my mom to let me tag along to the grocery store. Econofoods smelled like a strange mix of fresh produce and fake lemon cleaning products that clung to the air. The linoleum floors were scuffed and worn down from years of shopping carts rattling over them and the steady shuffle of feet. Jess, my five-year-old sister, was always a whirlwind of energy, darting between aisles like a tiny tornado. She had our dad’s button nose and her favorite white, frilly cotton top tucked into neatly pressed khaki shorts. Her tiny diamond stud earrings, pierced at Claire’s in the mall when she was a baby, sparkled as she twirled through the store. Her short brown pixie cut bobbed with every step, her energy infectiously lighthearted even as I plotted my next move.

 

About the Author

 

Luke Stoffel (b. 1978) Growing up a gay Catholic schoolboy on the banks of the Mississippi came with its own cross to bear. Confined by the cornfields of small-town Iowa, Luke’s understanding of God and his yearning for a world beyond began to take shape—often while nursing a bloody nose on the playground. The first thing Jesus taught him was how to hate himself; but the first thing the world taught him was how vast his possibilities were.

Luke is an accomplished artist and author, with several books available on Amazon, including The Easy Bake Unicorn Cookbook, The Art of Tarot: A History and Guidebook, and his debut novel

How to Win a Million Dollars and BEEP Glitter! His second, follow-up novel, In Over Your Head, is set to release in 2026. Additionally, his art and photography are featured in his ongoing book series The Noble Path.

Stepping off the plane in Thailand was like landing on Mars. Surrounded by towering golden stupas, and realizing there was something beyond the confines of Christ, became an explosive creative catalyst. Having visited over 40 countries, Stoffel channels the diverse cultures he’s encountered into his art. His work explores spirituality in a vibrant, pop fantasy style, offering American audiences a glimpse into the world’s rich religious and cultural tapestries.

Recognized as one of NYC’s top LGBTQ+ artists by GLAAD he has been showcased by prestigious organizations like the American Foundation for AIDS Research, and the Matthew Shepard foundation. His art and photography have appeared on Bravo’s Million Dollar Listing, in the New York Times, Huffington Post, AM New York, Hawaiian Airlines Magazines, and on the cover of Next Magazine. His artistic contributions have earned him the Starving Artist Award, along with a commission for Ralph Lauren’s daughter. His art has graced iconic New York venues like the Puck Building, The Art Directors Club, The Prince George Gallery, GalleryBar, and New World Stages.

 

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Continue ReadingBLOG TOUR: “How to Win a Million Dollars and Beep Glitter” by Luke Stoffel