Virtual Book Tour: The Secrets Between Us by Katie Mettner

Good morning! Please welcome author Katie Mettner to Full Moon Dreaming. She is here today to tell us about her newest release, The Secrets Between Us.  Katie will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour via Rafflecopter. The more you comment, the better your chances of winning! To find the other stops on her tour, go here. Don't forget to look for the Rafflecopter at the end of this post!

The Secrets Between Us

by Katie Mettner

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GENRE:   Contemporary Romance

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BLURB:

Of three things I was certain...

The first?

Mercy was exquisite in the most devastatingly broken way.

The second?

I didn’t know how to love, but for the first time in my life, I wanted to try.

The third?

The secrets between us could tear us apart forever.

I wouldn’t let that happen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

EXCERPT:

“I came by to apologize,” he said, relaxing back in the chair like he owned the place.

“For?” I asked, sitting across from him in the other club chair.

“For being rude the other night,” he answered. “I’ve found myself in a bit of a surly mood lately and I apologize if I took it out on you.”

I bit my lower lip and tipped my head to the right. “Same, actually. Truce?” I asked, sticking out my left hand.

He leaned forward and shook it, somewhat awkwardly. “Truce.”

“Great, how about a drink then?” I asked before I thought too hard about it.

“I could definitely use one,” he agreed. “What do you have?”

“Jack Daniels, Jim Beam, or Captain Morgan,” I answered instantly.

His brow went up. “Clearly, you like the boys. I guess I don’t have to worry about you being a lesbian.”

A smirk lifted one side of my lips. “I’m strictly dickly.” I stood and walked to the kitchen door. “Now, who will it be?”

“Jack and Coke?” he ordered, and I walked off to the kitchen nodding.

“Be right back,” I said over my shoulder.

Once alone in the kitchen I blew out a long, slow, unsteady breath. The fact that I had a man in my living room was unnerving. The fact that it was him was terrifying. And, strictly dickly? Did I say that?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Katie Mettner writes small-town romantic tales filled with epic love stories and happily-ever-afters. She proudly wears the title of, 'only person to lose her leg after falling down the bunny hill,' and loves decorating her prosthetic with the latest fashion trends. She lives in Northern Wisconsin with her own happily-ever-after and three mini-me’s. Katie has a massive addiction to coffee and Twitter, and a lessening aversion to Pinterest— now that she’s quit trying to make the things she pins.

The book is $0.99.

KATIE METTNER’S AMAZON PAGE     http://author.to/KatieMettner

KATIEMETTNER.COM  http://www.katiemettner.com/

NEWSLETTER http://eepurl.com/du7LwH

BOOKBUB https://www.bookbub.com/profile/katie-mettner

TWITTER 

https://twitter.com/KatieMettner

FACEBOOK

https://www.facebook.com/Wisconsinwriter

INSTAGRAM

https://www.instagram.com/sugarlipswi/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 Thank you for hosting me and The Secrets Between Us on your blog today! My name is Katie Mettner and I write from a little space overlooking the lake in Northern Wisconsin. I have three kids — my daughter is a sophomore in college, and my two sons are just finishing high school. When I’m not writing I’m busy doing laundry, cooking, baking, being a band mom, and wrangling my very special lizard Leroy Jethro Gibbs.

The Secrets Between Us is one of those books where the main characters are taken out of their environment and thrown together in a way they normally wouldn’t be. In that vein, I thought it would be fun to do an “either or” to learn more about them.

Either Or with Hayes Rutherford

Tea or coffee? Coffee. Tea is for the weak. I want my coffee hot, strong, black, and bottomless.

Hot or cold? I live in North Dakota. We don’t have ‘hot.’ We have cold and a little less cold.

Movie or book? Movie. I spend my entire day reading. When I want to relax, I always enjoy a good flick. Especially when I’m relaxing in my bed with a naked blonde snuggled under my arm, if you know what I mean. *Wiggles brows*

Coke or Pepsi? Coke, Pepsi isn’t good with Jack Daniels.

Toilet paper – over or under? Why is this a question? Is this a super important thing in life? If you have to know, over. Under is SO wrong.

Morning person or Night owl? In my line of work, I can say with all honesty it depends on what I’m involved in that day. I’ve learned to be both a morning person and a night owl. Sometimes both in the same day. *Pauses and stares at the ceiling* Whoa, I just realized what everyone tells me is true. I am a workaholic and don’t know how to have a normal relationship in life. *Makes mind blowing motion* Damn, ‘either or’ is more intense than I expected it to be.

Shower or bath? Shower. If I want to hang around in hot water I’m going in the jacuzzi. Preferably with a naked blonde under my arm. *wiggles brows* Of course, the blonde can join me in the shower as well.

City or country? I prefer the city for the conveniences it offers. Sometimes, the concrete jungle gets to me though, so I head to the country. As long as they have wi-fi I’m happy! *Pauses* Damn, there’s that workaholic thing again.

Jazz or Classical? *Turns up lip* Neither. How about some 80s punk rock? That’s more my speed.

Social Media or book? *Gags* BOOK! Social media is everything that is wrong with this world. I don’t want to know what all the people I went to high school with ate for dinner or that their favorite sports team is winning. I’ll take literature for 1000, Alex.

Cake or pie? Cake. No, pie. No, cake.

Top or bottom? Bottom. Wait, are we talking about sex or pajamas? This question confuses me. There are so many ways I could answer this. *waves hands* Okay. Sex — top, I love staring into her eyes. Pajamas — bottoms.

Either Or with Mercy Johnson

Tea or coffee? Coffee. Tea is for the weak. People say it’s weird that I drink day old coffee. I don’t think it’s weird. As long as it’s strong and hot, I’ll drink it.

Hot or cold? I live on a lake in North Dakota. We don’t have ‘hot.’ We have cold and a little bit less cold. I don’t think I would survive in hot. I’d probably shrivel up like a dried up orange the second the sun hit me.

Movie or book? Book. I love reading. It’s peaceful and relaxing at the end of a long day. There is nothing like snuggling up next to the fire or under my blanket and reading a good book. Mysteries and thrillers for me!

Coke or Pepsi? Coke. Pepsi is awful with Jack Daniels.

Toilet paper – over or under? This is very concerning for people, isn’t it? Why are we like this as humans? Over. Under is like putting your underwear on backward. You don’t mean to do it and it’s okay to fix it immediately.

Morning person or Night owl? Morning. I’m always up early at Cashmere Camp. There’s always snowplowing to do and chores that require daylight. Once the dark settles in, it’s hard to do much safely around the camp.

Shower or bath? Shower. I don’t understand sitting in a tub full of water that’s full of soap. Like, do you have to stand up and rinse it all off? Then you might as well take a shower! If I want to sit in warm water I’ll sit in the hot tub on my deck.

City or country? Country. I lived in the city once and got the t-shirt I never wear. Give me wide open spaces, plenty of sunshine, fresh air, and no one around to bother me and I’m a happy woman.

Social Media or book? Uhhhh, social media? I don’t do social media, so book by default. Social media scares me. I … uh … no, no social media. Is it hot in here? I don’t feel well…

Cake or pie? Pie. No, cake. No, pie. Hell, I’ll eat either, or, and all. Before you ask, apple not cherry and chocolate not white.

Top or bottom? Is this a trick question? Are we talking about sex or pajamas here? I don’t know how to answer this question. I … uh… is it hot in here? I don’t feel well …

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Wednesday Briefs: In Pieces #67 (16.4)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Ben and Ryan have a little time to kill before they have to get ready for Salvation's concert. How will they spend it? Find out in this week's chapter of In Pieces! Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what they've been doing! Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

In Pieces #67 (16.4)

Despite what the others might have thought, nothing happened in Ben and Ryan’s motel room… nothing other than a lot of cuddling and kissing. They undressed, and lay together beneath the blankets. Ryan wanted to make sure Ben was rested for Salvation’s gig that night. Maybe this time they’d get in some dancing. At least he’d try.

Playing big spoon, Ryan wrapped his arms around Ben, pressing close against him. “Remember when we used to spoon in my bed at home?”

“Mmhmm,” Ben murmured. “How could I forget?” He laid his arms possessively across Ryan’s forearms. “I could feel how much you wanted me, even through your sleep pants. I wanted to be with you… so badly.”

“Me too,” Ryan admitted. “But I was afraid to act on my desires, to do what I wanted.”

“Afraid? Why?” Ben rolled over in Ryan’s embrace and looked into his eyes.

“You were only fifteen.” Ryan’s fears seemed groundless now, but at the time, he couldn’t stop worrying about their situation. “I was eighteen. I didn’t want… want to take advantage of you. I wanted you to choose who and what you wanted.”

Ben raised one finger and traced a line around Ryan’s lips. “You never could. You’re the only one I’ve ever wanted. The only one I’ll ever want.” He kissed his fingertip then pressed it lightly against Ryan’s lips.

“You’re the only one for me too,” Ryan said. “I guess I didn’t want… anyone”—he’d almost said your mother but amended it at the last moment—“to accuse me of statutory or anything. Plus, I didn’t want our first time to be where Dad could hear us.”

Ben fell silent for a moment. Ryan wondered if he’d said something wrong.

“Do you think he knew?” Ben asked. Ryan thought he saw a shadow of concern in Ben’s eyes.

“About us?”

“Yeah.”

Ryan didn’t answer immediately, thinking back. “It’s hard to say. We didn’t talk about… well, you know.  What happened.  At first, I was afraid he’d get upset. After a while, it just didn’t seem the right time. Cassie’s never mentioned that he knew, but maybe he never said anything to her.” He sighed, leaning his forehead against Ben’s.

“You said something about our first time. Did you always know we would be together like this?”

“Yeah.” Ryan kissed Ben softly. “At least I always hoped I’d find you again someday. If someone had told me we’d never see each other, I don’t think I could have taken it. Being without you has been hell.”

“You have no idea.” Ben kissed Ryan passionately, and they immersed themselves in one another, words becoming unnecessary.

They didn’t have to be at the dance club until 8, which would give them plenty of time to set up before they played. Aiden and Abby volunteered to get fast food burgers for everyone, which they ate in the twin’s room.  Keanu was quick to remind them, they could always find an all-night place if they were still hungry after the last set. When Deacon wanted to know when Keanu wasn’t hungry, everyone laughed.

Afterward, they returned to their rooms to dress. Ryan was surprised to learn that Ben had more than one set of priest’s robes. The one he wore tonight had a little capelet which fell around his shoulders, edged in gold, and a salmon-colored belt with a long tie that fell down the front. Ben added violet contacts,  as well as a gold cross on a matching slender chain hung about his neck. The effect was altogether stunning.

“Good thing you’re not really a priest,” Ryan joked, his eyes raking up and down his lover in open admiration.

“If I was, guess I’d be breaking some vows.” Ben grinned, and Ryan couldn’t help but smile back.

“And I guess I’d be helping you break those vows,” Ryan commented.

“No one else.” Ben pivoted, glancing over one shoulder in a decidedly come hither fashion. Ryan groaned.

“If we only had time….”

“If we only had time, what?” Ben asked.

“I’d start breaking those vows right this minute, I promise you that.”

Ben closed the brief distance between them, gazing intently into Ryan’s eyes. “If we had the time, I’d climb up on that bed and spread my legs so fast, it would make your head spin.”

That image alone was enough to make Ryan’s cock begin to swell. While Ben could hide an erection behind his priestly façade, Ryan’s suit was not made for such things. Maybe stepping outside would cool his ardor off. That and taking care of business.

“God, you’re making me hard,” he breathed. “I mean making this hard. Shit, I don’t know what I mean.”

Ben kissed him softly, darting a quick glance south. “Don’t worry, we’ll take care of that later. That I guarantee. C’mon, grab your laptop and let’s go meet the others. It’s about time to go.”

As he trailed Ben from their motel room, Ryan decided that no matter what, before they went to sleep that night, he would show Ben just how much he really loved him.

to be continued

Now go see what the other Briefers are up to!

Cia Nordwell

J Alan Veerkamp

Book review: A Prince on Paper (Reluctant Royals #3) by Alyssa Cole

A Prince on Paper (Reluctant Royals #3)    

Author: Alyssa Cole

Publisher: Avon

American release date: April 30, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Contemporary Romance/381 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Nya Jerami is the daughter of the disgraced and now imprisoned former minister of Thesolo. Escaping to the glitz and glamor of NYC, Nya is dismayed to find the city is too big to suit her, and she feels out of place there. Her career isn’t taking off the way she’d hoped, and her love life leaves something to be desired too, only to be found in the virtual dating games she plays. Returning to Thesolo for the royal wedding of Ledi and Thabiso can either be a curse or a blessing, as she is unsure of the reception she will receive from the people, some of whom think she is as guilty as her father. However, in all her speculations as to what might happen, she never figured Prince Johan into her calculations.

Johan von Braustein is literally the red-headed step-prince of Liechtienbourgh and has long held the title of the Playboy Prince. But that works for him, as it draws attention to himself and away from his half-brother Lukas, the actual heir to the throne, who is only seventeen and not ready for the scrutiny of the press. Johan hides behind his infamous persona and admits no one. But then he finds himself up close and personal with Nya in the most unexpected way, and all bets are off. 

These two are in for a bumpy ride.

As if this isn’t enough pressure, a referendum is about to be held in Liechtienbourgh, which may bring about the end of the monarchy. What will happen to Prince Jo-jo/Johan then? The paparazzi are threatening to tear down his carefully built persona, while even from prison, Nya’s father attempts to manipulate her.

On the flight to Thesolo, Nya and Johan, aka Jo-Jo, find themselves becoming friends. Neither one knows the other has been watching for a long time. Secrets are being guarded, information withheld, and emotions kept in check. Due to unexpected circumstances, they present the world with a fake engagement. But how long will they be able to maintain the charade?

Much as I loved the first two books in the Reluctant Royals series, this one took my heart immediately, especially Prince Johan. By the time I was finished reading, I knew this was my favorite, without a doubt. Watching these two people watch each other, wanting, longing, and unable to speak due to perceived problems, broke my heart. Both are wounded, although in different ways, and both are afraid to love. Love, in their experience, can be manipulative or it can lead to great loss and pain. But there is more to it than that, as they come to learn, and they will have to take a leap of faith at some point in order to make their dreams come true.

Johan’s brother Lukas is both engaging and bratty, typical teenager, although he does have reason to act out, what with the upcoming referendum. He’s been raised all his life to become a king, but what if there is no monarchy? Not to mention, he has other issues he’s afraid to discuss which make him lash out at those he loves best.

Nya’s support group, aka Ledi and Portia, are not as evident in this book, but they are there for her as much as possible, and it’s good to see them again, as well as glimpses of Thabiso and Tav.

This book resonated the most deeply with me, and I could see myself in Nya, playing her dating sims, although mine tend to be of the male variety, such as Dream Daddy. It’s easier to give your heart to a virtual lover than an actual one, but sometimes you just have to take a chance. This is a don’t miss addition to the series, but you really need to read them all, as well as the two novellas that are part of the series also, or you’ll be shortchanging yourself.

I would so love to see these books made into a series or movie!

Virtual Book Tour: Time Travel by Roxanne San Jose

Good morning and please welcome author Roxanne San Jose to Full Moon Dreaming!  Roxanne is here today to tell us about her new release, Time Travel. Roxanne will be awarding a PDF of the book to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour via Rafflecopter. The more you comment, the better your chances of winning. To find where the other stops on her tour are, go here. Don't forget to look for the Rafflecopter at the end of this post!

Time Travel

by Roxanne San Jose

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GENRE: Science Romance

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

BLURB:

Angelie Thompson invented a time machine in 2015 and her boyfriend, John Salvador, was accidentally transported back to 1970. Left with no other option, Angelie journeys through time, searching for John. Along the way, she encounters several adventures, meeting new people on her desperate search for her lover.

Meanwhile, stranded in 1970 and with no hope of ever returning back to his own time, John begins a new life, working as a receptionist in Lesti Hotel where he finds a new love, Elisha.

Conflict arises among the characters due to their complicated relationships and when disaster strikes, it's up to Angelie to save the world with her time machine invention.

The tale of ‘Time Travel’ highlights love, determination and friendship.

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EXCERPT:

The sound of metal in the time machine groaned as Angelie Thompson turned it to the left with her ratchet.

“All done,” she murmured to herself.

Standing up, she typed in the places and years in the time machine remote control to test it. The six foot black octagon shaped time machine lit up and opened its doors. Angelie smiled and said to herself, “Someday, I’ll use it again.”

Then she headed to the table where her “Best in Science” award and her twelfth-grade last-semester report card was to study her notes.

Time Machine Notes:

1. Make sure the red wires are connected to the blue wires.

2. Buttons for the dates and places in the time machine remote control must be connected to the time machine so it can transport in the correct time.

3. Time machine remote control must have batteries.

4. No injury

Angelie reviewed the notes and stretched her arm to ease the muscle cramps there. “Well, everything seems fine.”

As she looked back at the time machine, she heard a knock and turned to the door.

John Salvador, her boyfriend, stood before her and he held up a steaming cup towards her. “Honey, here’s your cappuccino to keep you functional.” He kissed her on the lips.

She replied, “Thanks, honey,” as she took the drink and sat.

He grabbed a chair and sat next to her then glanced at her time machine notes. “Did you finally finish your work?”

Angelie gulped, and then replied, “I think so. All the wires seem to be in place and transportation to the dates and places are working properly.”

He looked at the notes then stood up, walking toward the time machine. With a look of seriousness, he said, “I guess you’re ready.” He glanced over his shoulder to smile back at her. “Do you want to catch a movie to relax for a while? Buzz is the 2015 movie of the year.”

Angelie shook her head in response. “I don’t think so. Do you want to try it now?” With a pause, she added, “Do you think it’ll work?”

He walked over to the time machine and stood beside her.

She asked, “So, do you want to go to the year 3050 to see what the future looks like?”

He grinned. “Definitely.”

Angelie typed “3050” under the “year” in the time machine remote control and the door opened.

John’s eyes widened. “Wow.”

They entered the time machine nervously, stood still and held the handle on the side. The machine cast a white smoke inside, blinding them temporarily, a signal that it had transported them to the year 3050.

Inside, the time machine, they remained nervous as they did not know what lay ahead of them. After ten minutes, the time machine’s automatic slide door opened behind a tree, allowing them to see cars that could fly. The people were dressed in odd suits, there were also robots, robotic animals talking to each other and no pollution in the air. The water was crystal-clear, the roads made of metal, and buildings built with glass.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

AUTHOR Bio and Links:

I am born in the Philippines but I now reside in Las Vegas, Nevada. I self-published my first book, Annagram, in 2015 about three countries fighting for an island.

Website: https://roxannesanjose.wixsite.com/roxannesanjose

Social Media Links:

1. Twitter: www.twitter.com/sjroxanne

2. Instagram: www.instagram/roxanne_sanjose

3. Facebook: www.facebook.com/roxanneasanjose

4. Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/roxannesanjose

Buy Links:

1. Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Travel-Second-Chances-Bundle-ebook/dp/B07R8C8W5B/

2. Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/time-travel-roxanne-san-jose/1131287594

3. Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/time-travel-avid-second-chances-bundle

4. Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/934333

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Wednesday Briefs: In Pieces #66 (16.3)

Good morning and Happy Hump Day! If it's Wednesday, then it must be time for more flash fiction from the Wednesday Briefers! We're a group of authors who bring you our finest flash fiction every week, 500 to 1000 words, inspired by one of our prompts.

Ryan learns some disturbing information from Marge, while interviewing her for the book about Salvation, concerning the band's former manager. There are things that don't make sense to him. See what's going on in this week's chapter of In Pieces. Don't forget to visit the other Briefers and see what's up with them!  Their links follow my tale! Enjoy!

In Pieces #66 (16.3)

Ben’s mother was once Salvation’s manager? Ryan couldn’t even begin to wrap his head around that idea. It had never occurred to him that Liza might ever have had anything to do with the band. Did that have anything to do with why Ben never talked about her?  Did they argue about the band, or Ben’s career, or something else? Questions crowded his mind, even as an unpleasant sensation surged through him at the thought of his one-time stepmother. He tamped it down, unwilling to spoil such a perfect day.

He reached for his bottle of water, hoping Marge wouldn’t notice he’d become momentarily unnerved. No use in asking anything else in that vein since Marge had obviously never met Ben’s mother. Those questions belonged to Ben… should he decide to actually ask them. Which was not likely. After all, what came before Salvation was past history, nothing that needed to be brought up again. No need to stir up unpleasant memories, or take a chance on causing Ben pain.

“So, had you ever heard of church metal before you became their manager?” He deftly changed the subject.

“Oh hell no.” Marge’s laugh was deep and warm and comfortable, wrapping around him like a security blanket. “I’ve heard lots of bands in my time, honey, and I know most every type of music there is, but that was a new one on me. Got me interested in them even more, you know?”

“I can imagine.” Ryan nodded.

“They have a new sound, but it’s also old, if you know what I mean. Kinda timeless. Like it sometimes reminds me of being in church, but it’s more than that.”

“I think I know what you mean.” Ryan glanced up from his keyboard. “Kind of classical but modern too. Like when you’re listening, everything sort of resonates, and their sound fills you, almost like a religious experience.”

“And that’s why you’re the writer,” Marge said. “Because you have the words I don’t. Couldn’t have said it better myself.”

Ryan felt his face go warm at her compliment. “Thanks, Marge, I appreciate that.”

Once she was started, Marge didn’t need prompting to keep talking. She discussed Salvation as a band—their hopes and dreams, her plans for propelling them to stardom, including their recently released self-titled CD. She gave him her observations on each of the members of the group, which were all pretty good. Ryan could see how much she loved them, as if they were her children. There didn’t seem to be anything she wouldn’t do for them. And she totally believed in them, in their ability to make it big in the music industry. Coming from Marge, that was impressive, as she’d been in the business for a long time and had seen a lot of groups come and go. She confided to him that of all the bands she’d managed, Salvation was her favorite.

Ryan’s fingers flew over the keyboard as he dutifully recorded everything she said. Even so, now and then he found his attention would stray to the pool, although he never stopped typing or listening. Ben hadn’t moved from where he’d last seen him, still in conversation with Aiden and Abby. He looked so comfortable and at ease with them, which made Ryan smile. At that moment, Ben cocked his head, his glance falling directly on Ryan, and he flashed him his megawatt smile. The one that caused Ryan’s heart to race as if it had just received a jolt of adrenaline. When Ben blew him a kiss through the air, Ryan melted inside.

A rumble of thunder diverted Ryan’s attention to the sky. When had it started to grow dark, and where had those clouds come from? Looked like Abby had been right with her warnings. They should probably get inside before the deluge.

He turned his head in time to see Marge rise from her chair. “Looks like we’re about to get rained on,” she said. “You might want to put that up”—she waved a hand at his laptop—“before it gets wet. I’ll see you guys at the club tonight.”

“See you later, Marge.” Ryan hastily saved what he’d just written and shut down his laptop. Might as well charge it when they went back to their room. Ben should probably rest before tonight’s performance, too. He wasn’t sure how long they’d be playing. Some of these clubs were open well into the wee hours of the night.

He zipped his laptop into its case, picked up their towels, then headed toward the pool. Some of the other swimmers seemed to have the same idea as Marge, hastily exiting the pool, Ben and Aiden and Abby among them.

He bundled one of the towels about Ben’s shoulders, fussing over him like a mother hen. “Let’s get you inside and dry you off,” he said. “I don’t want you to catch cold or anything.”

“Yes, dear,” Ben said almost meekly, which produced a titter from Aiden. Abby thwacked him in the back of his head, but Ryan didn’t mind their banter. He knew it was well-meaning.

“We’ll text you later,” Ben said. Ryan couldn’t help but notice the twins’ knowing smiles as he and Ben headed to their room.

to be continued'

Now go see what's up with the other Briefers!

Cia Nordwell

J Alan Veerkamp

Book Review: Blue Morning, Vol 6 by Shoko Hidaka

Blue Morning, Vol 6       

Author: Shoko Hidaka

Publisher: SuBLime Publishing

American release date: September 13, 2016

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Manga/Yaoi/250 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

Katsuragi has become uncertain, both of himself and his relation with Akihito. He thinks himself weak and useless because Akihito no longer blindly obeys him—so what purpose does he serve? While dressing the morning after, at Akihito’s hotel, he notices ragged garments in the closet and wonders why they are there. And why won’t Akihito get the haircut Katsuragi keeps telling him he needs?

Akihito meets with Ishizaki at a hot pot restaurant, which irks Ishizaki because it’s a hot day. Akihito says he is about to retire to Kamakura, under the pretense of his fake illness. Much has changed since the evening at the Moriyama’s, and thanks to the reporters Katsuragi arranged for, is common knowledge. For example that Ishizaki has become the Kuze house guardian. Madam Kayoko’s trip to France and her estrangement from her husband. Akihito’s “lung illness.” One reporter asked Akihito about the importance of producing an heir, but that won’t happen, not while he has Katsuragi. Ishizaki muses that things would be easier if Katsuragi were a woman.

Master Ishizaki informs Katsuragi that he has purchased a mill and wishes him to become the president and make a profit. He accepts the position. When he tries to drop off some papers with Amamiya, the new Kuze butler insists he deliver it to Akihito himself, and also deliver something from Katsuragi’s brother, Takayuki, who Akihito has entrusted with the financial affairs of the Kuze house. Katsuragi goes to the hotel and wakes Akihito, informing him the government railways have finally given their approval. Now Akihito can set up a railway in the old fief.

Ishizaki returns home from a late night out to find Katsuragi in his room. Katsuragi tells Ishizaki to not see the geisha he’s been seeing, and if he must continue the relationship, then he must allow Katsuragi to buy her out of bondage in his own name. Akihito meets with Katsuragi’s brother, who also remonstrates with him about his unruly hair. Akihito reiterates that he will be leaving for Kamakura, as planned. When Akihito says that he wishes Tomoyuki and Takayuki, as brothers, were closer, Takayuki responds with the comment that they are not related by blood, to which Akihito enigmatically replies, “Do you really think so?”

Katsuragi calls on Saionji and catches up with him. It seems his former lover knows him pretty well, including the fact that he loves Akihito. Saionji is happy himself, with his wife and new baby. Saionji gives Katsuragi some advice on what he should do. Later, Katsuragi goes to the mill. His employees are apprehensive about what their new boss will be like, fearful they will be blamed for past failures and be let go, but Katsuragi is not what they expected.

Even as Akihito makes plans to study abroad, he is concerned with Katsuragi, knowing he wishes to know about his origins, whether he voices his desire or not. Akihito and Amamiya visit Kiku’s old house, and Amamiya wonders what might have been, know that he knows about Akihito and Katsuragi. Akihito confides his plans for the future, once the railway is in place. Despite what Katsuragi may think, he does have the best interests of the Kuze house in mind, as well as his future with Katsuragi. Will he be able to persuade Katsuragi to come with him to Kamakura?

Each volume of this series is wonderful, I can’t get enough of these characters, even as I am left on the edge of my seat, wondering when they will finally be in sync with one another. The only way I will be happy is if they end up together at the end, nothing less will do. The artwork is superb, both men are very handsome, especially Katsuragi. She is very expressive in portraying their emotions in their faces. I can see the lust that glazes Katsuragi’s eyes, feel Akihito’s own wonder and joy as he gazes at the man he loves during their intimate moments. As to who will end up with the house of Kuze, I would not venture a guess. There is a whole lot going on, and the plot just keeps on getting deeper.

Can’t wait for the next one, one of the best yaoi manga ever!

Book Review: The General's Bride by M.F. Sullivan

The General’s Bride       

Author: M.F. Sullivan

Publisher: Painted Blind Publishing

American release date: August 14, 2019

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/Sci Fi/LGBTQ/293 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★★

After the debacle in Jerusalem, Dominia finds herself in a place between worlds, walking with Lazarus and Valentinian to Cairo. As if that isn’t strange enough, every night, she finds and enters her father’s study and converses with the Hierophant as if that were the most natural thing in the world to do. However, there is an unnatural element at work here, a chimera that is coming to resemble Dominia’s late wife Cassandra more and more, to Dominia’s dismay. Is she upset because this creature is an insult to Cassandra’s memory, or is that she fears she won’t be able to resist the temptation of well-remembered flesh should she come to resemble Cassandra more strongly than she can bear?

Every morning, a knock comes on the Hierophant’s study door as Valentinian comes to retrieve Dominia. He returns her to the journey she is on with him and Lazarus. Sometimes she just looks at him, unable to believe he and Basil are one and the same. Dominia’s conversations with her father are both confusing and enlightening. Although she doesn’t entirely trust him, she doesn’t entirely distrust him either. And he’s oddly more forthcoming on many subjects than her enigmatic traveling companions. Sometimes she thinks Lazarus couldn’t give her a straight answer if his life depended on it. Her father warns her that her desire to resurrect Cassandra is not practical and that she is being lied to, and sometimes she just doesn’t know which way to turn – except  away from the creature which seems to resemble her late wife more and more.

Dominia isn’t sure who to believe or who to trust—everyone has their own agenda, including her. She wants to get to Cairo to retrieve Cassandra’s diamond from Miki Soto. Lazarus and Valentinian claim they want to save mankind by sending the martyrs to the far away planet of Acetia. But how can it be right to condemn an entire people for the actions of a few? Did the Hierophant come from there? There is evil on both sides, but which is the true evil?

Dominia’s journey to Cairo will be a long one, and certainly not straightforward as she finds herself in strange places, among strange people and begins to doubt everyone and everything she knows. If they are her friends, why aren’t they with her, to save her? Why does it sometimes seem as though her Father has her best interests at heart? It seems as though Dominia can only rely on herself, but will she be enough to see her through what is to come?

The General’s Bride is every bit as riveting as The Hierophant’s Daughter as Dominia continues her journey to Cairo to retrieve the remains of her wife, held in a diamond which was stolen by Miki Soto. This is indeed a mindblowing story of people and worlds and forces beyond the ken of most of us, forces that defy and shape the very laws of physics and reality. Dominia has choices to make, most of them not easy ones, and she learns that her own wishes aren’t necessarily in her own best interest and aren’t necessarily the right path to take. People aren’t necessarily what she thought they were, and there is indeed a blurred line betwixt good and evil. Even the Hierophant straddles that line, and it’s impossible to hate him as unequivocally as she thought she did for sometimes he says the most remarkable things.

Although I love Dominia, my favorite character is still the Hierophant, so I rejoiced every time he appeared. M.F. Sullivan’s writing voice is superb. She blows your mind with descriptions of metaphysical worlds and ideas, asking questions which make you truly think about what you know or think you know. Her characters are so well-drawn that you feel as if you’ve known them forever as she sucks you into the trajectory of their lives. I wish this journey could go on forever, but I know there’s only one more book, and I’m fearful that it will contain the death of the Hierophant. Nonetheless, I look forward to it and I’ll hope for the best until something else happens.

This book is every bit as good as the first one. I highly recommend it.

Book Review: Soul Eater 3 by Atsushi Ohkubo

Soul Eater, Vol 3

Author: Atsushi Ohkubo      

Publisher: Yen Press

American release date: March 3, 2015

Format/Genre/Length: Paperback/manga/paranormal/192 pages

Overall Personal Rating: ★★★★

Soul is hospitalized, following the fight with Ragnarok, unaware that some of the creature’s black blood has mixed in with his. What they are all unaware of is that the witch Medusa has become a doctor at the hospital! That can’t be good! A depressed Maka blames herself for Soul being hurt, but as she leaves his hospital room, she finds her father waiting for her. She goes up to the roof with him to watch the sunset.

Black Star balks at the remedial lesson he’s been assigned by Sid—he’s charged with cleaning and straightening up the library. Not sure where to begin, he runs across the library’s collection of manga, to his delight. When he expresses his joy a little too loudly, he draws the ire of Death the Kid, who is also there. Not accidentally, as Black Star assumes, but very much on purpose. Death tells him he’s looking for a book about a legendary blade, call the “holy sword” known as Excalibur. Dr. Stein weighs in and tells them even he could not draw Excalibur. So naturally Black Star and Death the Kid want to twith hiry their hand at it! Although, perhaps this isn’t quite the adventure they were looking for.

Tsubaki accepts an assignment to deal with the Uncanny Sword Masamune, even though Shinigami-sama warns her it will be a hard fight. But she feels compelled to do it, mostly because Masamune is her older brother! She and Black Star head to the village she came from. Black Star is his usual loud self. But when a villager notices his tattoo and recognizes it for what it is, Black Star’s story begins to come out. When they find Masamune, Black Star battles him, using Tsubaki. But the fight is ultimately Tsubaki’s, and she’ll do what she must, even if that includes getting into her brother’s head.  Black Star sets up a vigil beside Tsubaki’s body and vows to wait for her as long as it takes.

In the hospital, Soul confides to Medusa about his strange dream, which has a disturbingly Twin peaks vibe and ends in the same disturbing way—with him coming out of Maka’s stomach! Medusa tells him not to worry about it. On his release, Maka throws a party for him at their apartment, and Blair gives Make and Death the Kid quite a shock. Suddenly, Maka is startled at the realization that there is a presence in Death City that should not be there.

I especially enjoyed seeing more of Tsubaki in this volume of Soul Eater. She doesn’t usually get as much attention as Black Star, probably because he’s a hog for the spotlight and she is much quieter. Her interaction with her brother is touching. I also liked watching Black Star and Death the Kid in their quest to draw Excalibur from the stone. The cover, featuring Death the Kid and the Thompson sisters, is great. As usual, I love the artwork. I liked seeing a more tender, Dad side of Maka’s father. Too bad I don’t think it’ll last. He always manages to do something wrong sooner or later.

Another great volume, looking forward to more of the same!

Virtual Book Tour: Loved by the Beast by Anya Summers

Good morning! Please welcome author Anya Summers to Full Moon Dreaming. She is here to tell us about her newest release, Loved by the Beast. Anya will be awarding a $15 Amazon/BN GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour via Rafflecopter. The more you comment, the better your chances of winning! To find the other stops on her tour, go here. Don't forget to look for the Rafflecopter at the end of this post!

Loved by the Beast

by  Anya Summers

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GENRE: Paranormal Erotic Romance

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BLURB:

Anna has plans for her life. This fall, she will be heading off to medical school, well on her way to becoming a doctor. But first, she and her besties head to Ireland to celebrate.

Nowhere did her future plans even include serious dating, let alone becoming mated to a man who can turn into a freaking beast with wings. Nor did she reckon with being sucked through a portal onto another planet while on her way home from a great night out.

Yet from the very first time her new mate touches her, Anna wonders if this could be the real deal – as in: the big L. The only problem is, her mate says his kind do not love; they protect, they pleasure, and they provide. Can Anna really kiss goodbye to all her plans for the future, and agree to spend the rest of her existence without love?

Publisher’s Note: This steamy paranormal romance, while the third in the Alcyran Chronicles series, can be read and enjoyed as a standalone.

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EXCERPT:

His nose caught a whiff of sweetness on the breeze. The potency and flavor reminded him of dragonsbane wine. Being surrounded by the foreign stench, his beast wanted to roll around in the familiar scent.

He scrutinized the pavement below.

Then he spotted his prey. The women walked three abreast down a deserted lane, swaying slightly as they trod. He inhaled a giant whiff, needing to be sure. His people needed him to finish this task and succeed. Rhiannon had been correct. Their scent held trace amounts of Clovis blood, mingled with that of the people of this planet. It confused his internal sensors, made him want to call them Clovis—but they were not. They had far too much of Earth inside them. Their Clovis scent was so faint and diluted, if he had not been searching for that in particular, he would have missed it.

He swooped down near the trio. His senses were on high alert. He homed in, soaring near their location. One of the women, a black-haired wench with hair that fell to her waist, glanced skyward, lifting her face toward his position, and emitted an ear-piercing scream.

That face. Even in the dark he could discern her beautiful porcelain features, the arched brows, slim upturned nose and pouty lips that were presently drawn in abject terror. A lightning bolt of energy struck D’Vorak’s system. His wings stretched. His dick woke like a sleeping giant, straining against the confines of his leather britches. His entire being bellowed: mine. That, at long last, he had found his mate.

The urge to rut until his seed emptied into his mate’s sex and his staff became flaccid surged through him. It overrode his every thought. He had to claim her, bind her life force with his and plant his offspring in her belly.

The thought of being with his mate after believing he was doomed to walk alone made his head swim. He was exultant. Desire thundered through his veins. His blood roared.

And then his mate and the other two women sprinted away. D’Vorak snarled. How dare she run from him? She belonged to him, now and until the end of their days. Like they could outrun him.

He shot after them, weaving his great wings between buildings as he flew, speeding closer and closer. He grinned when they took the dead-end with the entrance to the portal. Rhiannon had said the women would be drawn to the magic of the vortex, that their blood would recognize the magic and it would act like a tether, leading them to it. The trap had been executed to perfection.

D’Vorak looked at the woman, his mate. She was a sprite of a thing, lush where it counted, and he felt himself nearly coming out of his skin at the sight. She was his mate, all right. His body and being exhibited all the signs. His feet touched down upon the firm, stone ground. Not breaking his forward momentum, he stalked forward. Voracious need battered his every footstep. He wanted to shake himself. It had been hundreds of years since any of his kind had found their mate. They slaked their lust on their harems full of concubines to quell the rising madness within. Every aspect of his being bellowed that he must take her, bind her to him at once.

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Anya grew up listening to Cardinals baseball and reading anything she could get her hands on. She remembers her mother saying if only she would read the right type of books instead binging her way through the romance aisles at the bookstore, she’d have been a doctor. While Anya never did get that doctorate, she graduated cum laude from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with an M.A. in History.

Anya is a bestselling and award-winning author published in multiple fiction genres. She also writes urban fantasy, paranormal romance, and contemporary romance under the name Maggie Mae Gallagher. (http://www.maggiemaegallagher.com/) A total geek at her core, when she is not writing, she adores attending the latest comic con or spending time with her family. She currently lives in the Midwest with her two furry felines.

Visit her website here:

www.anyasummers.com

Visit her on social media here:

http://www.facebook.com/AnyaSummersAuthor  

Twitter: @AnyaBSummers https://twitter.com/anyabsummers?lang=en

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15183606.Anya_Summers 

Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Anya-Summers/e/B01EGTVRKC/

Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/anya-summers

                        Instagram https://www.instagram.com/anyasummersauthor/

Newsletter https://anyasummers.com/newsletter/

Don’t miss these exciting titles by Anya Summers!

Dungeon Fantasy Club Series

Her Highland Master, Book 1 https://www.amazon.com/Highland-Master-Dungeon-Fantasy-Club-ebook/dp/B01E9UB8SO/

To Master and Defend, Book 2 https://www.amazon.com/Master-Defend-Dungeon-Fantasy-Club-ebook/dp/B01FNG23HI/

Two Doms for Kara, Book 3 https://www.amazon.com/Doms-Kara-Dungeon-Fantasy-Club-ebook/dp/B01GXGOAK0/

His Driven Domme, Book 4 https://www.amazon.com/Driven-Domme-Dungeon-Fantasy-Club-ebook/dp/B01IIUY8Y2

Her Country Master, Book 5  https://goo.gl/YWhLqm

Love Me, Master Me, Book 6  https://goo.gl/QlTE9u

Submit To Me, Book 7  https://goo.gl/Or8pYr

Her Wired Dom, Book 8  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MRJY9TF/

Pleasure Island Series

Her Master & Commander, Book 1  https://www.amazon.com/Master-Commander-Pleasure-

Island-Book-ebook/dp/B06Y5SVVB9/

Her Music Masters, Book 2  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0711R9D1H/

Their Shy Submissive, Book 3  https://goo.gl/ufyJLn

Her Lawful Master, Book 4  https://www.amazon.com/Lawful-Master-Pleasure-Island-Book-ebook/dp/B073SRDNNT

Her Rockstar Dom, Book 5  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075VSGP8Q

Duets & Dominance, Book 6  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075TG9RYC

Her Undercover Dom, Book 7  https://goo.gl/HKhVba

Ménage In Paradise, Book 8  https://goo.gl/qce2BD

Her Rodeo Masters, Book 9  https://goo.gl/HDZw6v

Cuffs & Spurs Series

His Scandalous Love  https://www.amazon.com/Scandalous-Love-Cuffs-Spurs-Book-ebook/dp/B079GBB57Z

His Unexpected Love  https://www.amazon.com/His-Unexpected-Love-Carter-Beginning-ebook/dp/B07C2NBGLQ

His Wicked Love  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07B661RP1

His Untamed Love  https://www.amazon.com/Untamed-Love-Cuffs-Spurs-Book-ebook/dp/B07D9ZDHMH

His Tempting Love  https://www.amazon.com/Tempting-Love-Cuffs-Spurs-Book-ebook/dp/B07HYT1GVQ

His Seductive Love https://www.amazon.com/Seductive-Love-Cuffs-Spurs-Book-ebook/dp/B07KXP3MMF

His Secret Love https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NKN5Y2S

His Cherished Love https://www.amazon.com/Cherished-Love-Cuffs-Spurs-Book-ebook/dp/B07SBDTVMV

The Alcyran Chronicles

Taken by the Beast  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FYNT21L

Claimed by the Beast https://www.amazon.com/Claimed-Beast-Alcyran-Chronicles-Book-ebook/dp/B07Q3HNP26/

Loved by the Beast https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W3QFLJW/ref=sr_1_1

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a Rafflecopter giveaway