Scarlet's Slash

The S.E.X. Factor series

2012-01-30T10:54:00.006+02:00

The S.E.X. Factor series rotates around a group of humans who suffer from the S.S.E.X. syndrome, one that allows the to shape-shift into different animals. Their discoveries, friendships and love stories are documented in books tentatively titled after song names. Current series structure (subject to change) is the following:
1. On the Wings of a Butterfly
2. The Wolf and the Raven
3. Dove Me Tender, Dove Me Sweet
4. Black and White
5. One Love of the Lion

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 30.01.2012

Word count: 39.257 words

Buy link: On the Wings of a Butterfly

Blurb

Blue has always considered himself an anomaly, a freak. Always watched by his parents, he lives a hopeless existence due to his butterfly wings. His only comfort is a mysterious dream lover with golden eyes who comes to him at night. But Blue can’t even see his face and can’t even be sure the man is real.

When he dares to attempt an escape, Blue meets Wallace, a wolf-shifter. Wallace teaches him that there is so much more out there than Blue ever believed, that he is not alone like he’d thought.

As Blue struggles to accept the new revelations, emotions also emerge, paving the path to a brighter future. But there is someone still waiting to crush his dreams and his wings. With Wallace’s support, can Blue become a beautiful, bright butterfly, or will he forever be trapped in the cocoon of his own pain?

Mate or Meal series

2011-10-15T10:05:00.002+03:00

The Mate or Meal series rotates around unlikely pairings between predator and prey.
Series structure:
1. The Lamb Who Cried Wolf
2. The Wolf Who Hatched an Egg
3. The Love He Squirreled Away
4. The Lynx Who Claimed the Sun
5. The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse
6. The Gazelle Who Caught a Lion
7. The Demon Who Fed on a Shark

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 24.10.2011

Word count: 36.464 words

Buy link: The Lamb Who Cried Wolf

Blurb

Lunch or lover? That is the question that appears in werewolf Brody’s mind when he meets lamb shifter Carson. The answer is easy. Simply looking into Carson’s innocent blue eyes tells him that the lamb is his mate. If he’s going to eat Carson up, they’ll both enjoy it.

Carson has been isolated by his flock due to his inability to grow into a strong ram. When he is unexpectedly attacked by his half-brother, he does not expect being rescued by a wolf—let alone falling in love with him.

But in spite of Brody and Carson’s feelings, there are other forces at work, and people who don’t agree with Brody’s new plans and diet. If Brody can’t find a way to save their bond, Carson might become lunch, after all.

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 7.11.2011

Word count: 40.703 words

Buy link: The Wolf Who Hatched an Egg

Blurb

Snack or sweetheart? Definitely sweetheart. Or so werewolf Liam thinks when he meets swan shifter Shiloh. Shiloh is everything Liam’s soul yearns for, a gorgeous, feisty spitfire who turns his blood into flame and makes his entire being sing. But Shiloh is reluctant to believe in Liam’s good intentions.

Shiloh has been searching for The One for as long as he can remember. In his quest, he made several mistakes, and now he is reluctant to believe again, especially in a wolf. After all, wolves prey on his kind. How could he possibly entrust his heart to one?

As they struggle through misunderstandings and try to build a relationships, a third member joins their little family—a mysterious swan egg abandoned in front of their door. Will it strengthen Shiloh’s bond with Liam or will it separate them forever?

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 5.12.2011

Word count: 40.669 words

Buy link: The Love He Squirreled Away

Blurb

Stew or spouse? It is the dilemma werewolf Soren fights upon taking squirrel-shifter Daniel as his mate. His duty as an Alpha forces him to keep his mate a secret, while his heart and his beast demand to claim Daniel.

Daniel has always feared getting too close to others, since a lethal disease branded him as an outcast for his kind. He dares to make an exception for Soren, despite Soren’s difficult situation. Surpassing his feelings of inadequacy is a challenge, even if he knows Soren would never betray their bond.

But just as Daniel starts to make new friends within the pack, there are other forces at work that do not agree to the two men’s mating. A vicious attack on Soren’s loved ones is pinned on Daniel and all loyalties begin to be questioned. How long will Daniel be allowed to keep his role as Soren’s spouse?

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 26.12.2011

Word count: 39.194 words

Buy link: The Lynx Who Claimed the Sun

Blurb

Heartthrob or hot wings? For lynx-shifter Garth Mckenna, hummingbird Nicolas is both. Without a doubt, Nicolas couldn’t be hotter if he tried. He is Garth’s sun, his love, and his unexpected mate.

Between such different men, finding a middle ground is never easy. When Garth’s two sons reject Nicolas, Garth is torn between his boys and his mate. He does not know what to do and what to believe.

Nicolas doesn’t remember his past, and he has kept what little he does know a secret from his new friends. Garth brings love to his life, and he is hurt when Garth’s sons refuse his affection.

However, sometimes, the sun is too scorching even for its children. Nicolas’s mysterious past emerges to threaten his loved ones and it might eclipse all his hopes for the future. It is up to Garth to save them from perpetual darkness.

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 2.01.2012

Word count: 42.473 words

Buy link: The Shark Who Rode a Seahorse

Sushi or soul mate? What a ridiculous question. There is no doubt in shark-shifter Byron’s mind that what he feels for seahorse Skylar is genuine. But Byron is well aware of the difference between them. He is a monster, and that puts sweet-natured Skylar out of his reach. In his fear of hurting Skylar, he pushes the seahorse away. But when Skylar is attacked, Byron knows he cannot stay away from Skylar anymore.

Skylar has always been searching for his soul mate, that special person he would share his life and innocence with. When he meets Byron, he instantly feels the bond between them. In Byron’s power and forcefulness, he finds an anchor. But even as they attempt to build a life together, there are still many challenges ahead. When Skylar unexpectedly becomes pregnant, Byron will have to learn to deal with fatherhood and protect his new family from an unexpected threat.

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 16.02.2012

Word count: 37.502 words

Buy link: The Gazelle Who Caught a Lion

Angel or appetizer? The question never crossed Clark’s mind. Growing up, Angel was only his adopted little brother, a sibling he’d have done anything to protect. But twenty years seemed to have passed in the blink of an eye, and now Angel is a beautiful young man, and one Clark’s lion feels is his mate.

Angel doesn’t know when his brotherly affection for Clark turned into more, but he is well aware he can never let Clark know. The mere idea of Clark rejecting him, hating him, terrifies him. But as they begin new lives at the United Paranormal Academy, hiding their love from each other becomes even harder. When Angel is put in charge of an incubus student, the new arrival’s flirtation awakens Clark’s jealousy. And while Angel and Clark struggle with their emotions, a murder shakes the academy and is pinned on Clark. Can their love prevail?

Tides of Love series

2011-09-26T11:27:00.002+03:00

Tides of Love is a LovExtreme series from Siren Bookstrand, that takes place on the waterworld of Uli. As humans get transported on this strange world, they meet love in the unlikeliest of placest.

Series structure:
1. Saving Connor
2. Craving Owen
Work in progress
3. Healing Valderr
Other projected releases:
4. Seducing Kani
5. Claiming Fayre

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 26.09. 2011

Word count: 62.670 words

Buy link: Saving Connor

Blurb:

Thrust by chance in the waterworld of Uli, Connor finds himself falling for five gorgeous men. Rallion, Wren, Tallean, Chek and Rodrik are as different as night and day, and yet they all arouse deep feelings inside him, feelings he does not know how to deal with.

Elven princes Wren and Tallean want to protect Connor, but they do not realize how much the abyss between their social positions affects him. It is up to half-fae Rallion to soothe Connor. But when an investigation regarding his presence on Uli begins, the situation is complicated by the appearance of Chek and Rodrik.

The two shape-shifters teach Connor and his men more about their souls and bodies than they'd ever known before. But there is a shadow watching from the darkness, hunting Connor. Can the five men save their lover before it is too late? What will these tides of love bring?

Published by Siren Bookstrand

Date of publication: 10.10. 2011

Word count: 68.596 words

Buy link: Craving Owen

Reaching Uli while trying to find Connor, Owen falls in love with five men involved in a terrible war. Yane, Alcharr, Sassaki, Hash, and Kyllian are bound by age-old histories of enmity, hate, and greed. Nymph Yane is in love with Alcharr, but forced into an arranged betrothal for the purpose of a political union. Their two nations mean to fight the wyrms attacking Yane's lands—Sassaki's people. All the while, Hash tries to investigate the situation and find a way to control it.

But when they meet Owen, their priorities change, and they become involved in a desperate fight to keep Owen safe. They enlist the help of air wizard Kyllian. But even as Kyllian's forceful passion teaches them the truth about themselves, the five struggle against a plot that can destroy the world. Can craving Owen unite his five lovers? Can Owen's love defeat the differences between them?

New acceptances: Mate or Meal books 1&2

2011-08-20T18:56:00.001+03:00

Yes, I started a new series. This time, it is m/m - I'm back to my first love, in a way haha. The first two books, The Lamb Who Cried Wolf and The Wolf Who Hatched an Egg will be available from Siren Bookstrand late this year.

Bloodkin series

2011-08-13T18:42:00.002+03:00

The Bloodkin is a vampire-themed series set in a fantasy setting. My Bloodkin are a little special, as my readers will undoubtedly see.
Series structure
1. Bed and Breakfast
Work in Progress
2. Lover's Obsession
Other projected releases
3. Title to be decided

Published by Silver Publishing

Date of publication: 13.08.2011

Word count: 53.612

Buy link: Bed and Breakfast

Marlais "Moss" Hayden is a young man struggling to survive after being sent away by his impoverished family. A want ad falls into his hands, advertising a position for "bed and breakfast". When he checks it out, Moss realizes the job represents providing sex and blood to bloodkin Vane Bloodmoor.

Vane offers him instead a position as a secretary and blood donor, and Moss is unable to refuse or the resist the bloodkin's allure. But as he struggles through unfamiliar emotions for Vane, a political plot threatens to destroy their unlikely love. Can Moss and Vane save their budding relationship?

Release day: Spirit Wolves 5. Star-Crossed Mates

2011-08-11T19:16:00.001+03:00

Book 5 of the Spirit Wolves series is finally here. Tentatively, it is the last book of the Spirit Wolves series, although I might continue with a snip-off later.

Klaus and Clay are mates, but their relationship is strained by Klaus's duty toward Wolfram. For over ten years, Clay waits for Klaus to come to him, to leave The Magistrate's side and complete their bond. When Wolfram finds his mates, Clay dares to hope once again, but Klaus still rejects him. Unable to compete with Wolfram, Clay flees Klaus's side, only to find his other mate, Ross.

Having been tormented by the feral Joseph, Ross is forced to betray his rescuers, the spirit wolves. He doesn't expect meeting Clay or receiving another chance, but Clay helps him escape. Now on the run from both spirit wolves and ferals, Ross risks losing his mind to the feral virus.

It is up to Klaus to save his two mates. Three star-crossed mates are separated by distrust, sorrow, and dark secrets. Can Klaus make the right choice before it is too late?

Buy link here.

Release day: Spirit Wolves 4. Three Mates, One Destiny

2011-08-03T18:45:00.001+03:00

Hi everyone. The fourth installment of the Spirit Wolves series is now officially out.

For seven years, Paulie focused only on finding a cure for the feral virus, with little time for personal relationships. All that changes when hunters Sebastian and Marcus come into his life. The attraction between them cannot be denied. They are his mates, but at the same time, they share a connection that humbles Paulie. He fears intruding in their relationship. He fears becoming the third wheel.

Sebastian and Marcus have always been together, facing everything from prejudice to feral attacks as one being. But now, they find themselves in front of the most difficult battle of their lives, the battle to win their mate's heart and trust.

As Sebastian and Marcus struggle to convince Paulie of their genuine affection, the danger of betrayal crowds around them. Can the three find their shared destiny or will their enemies defeat them?

Buy link: here.

Thank to all the loyal readers who've kept buying the series. I hope you enjoy book 4 as well. And don't forget, book 5 is already available for preorder here.

New release: Two Mates for a Magistrate

2011-07-26T19:14:00.001+03:00

Hi all. It's that special day again, Release Day - this time for book 3 of my Spirit Wolf series, Two Mates for a Magistrate.

For many centuries, Magistrate Wolfram Rozenstadt shouldered the burden of leadership alone, his only support his best friend, Klaus. But the pain of his people and the loss of lives strains his mind and soul until he is almost lost in his nightmares. Unexpectedly, a vision leads him to his two mates, Dietrich and Fritz, giving him hope.

Dietrich is a witch, having learned from a very young age to loathe the part of him that is a beast. But upon meeting Fritz, his control fails, and he is on the verge of becoming a monster. All the while, Fritz tries to grasp how in the world a relationship which seemed to show such promise turned into an episode of The Twilight Zone.

Wolfram comes to their aid, but an enemy is lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike. And this time, The Magistrate's power might not be enough to defeat the evil watching them.

Click me for spirit wolf goodness.

Don't forget book 4 is also available for pre-order. For those already familiar with the series, it is Paulie's story. More details, here.

Until the next blog, enjoy reading. I'll be waiting for your questions and comments.

Book 3 of Spirit Wolves available for pre-order

2011-07-15T07:48:00.001+03:00

Woke up to a very nice surprise. Book 3 of Spirit Wolves is available for pre-order - one day after the release of Book 2. An author really could get used to this.

Wolfram comes to their aid, but an enemy is lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike. And this time, The Magistrate's power might not be enough to defeat the evil watching them.

Find out the continuation of the story! (and more spirit wolf goodness of course haha)

New release: Mates in Life and Death

2011-07-14T19:36:00.002+03:00

Hi everyone. It's with great pleasure that I'd like to let you know Spirit Wolves 2: Mates in Life and Death is officially out. And on this note, thank you for the great response for book 1. I appreciate it a lot. You are the best.

A hundred years ago, Caesar lost Linden to death and the feral virus. Now, finally recovering his memory in his new life as Daniel Lawson, he is overjoyed when he senses his mate once again. But upon their reunion, he runs into an unexpected surprise—their other mate, Ash.

A hunter of ferals, Ash doesn't know what to believe when he finds a human mate. Hearing about his brother Trent's mating gives him hope, but his world is shaken when Dan appears. Sorrows of the past linger between the three, straining a connection that is already difficult to understand.

But when dangerous revelations shatter every notion of their reality, Ash and Dan find themselves fighting side by side in a desperate attempt to keep Linden safe. Will they get a chance for a new life, or will death win the battle again?

Click me for spirit wolf goodness.

New cover art: Spirit Wolves 2 and 3

2011-07-06T18:52:00.001+03:00

Since I've been a bit lazy with the blog updates, I'm behind with updating the cover art. Today I just received the cover for Spirit Wolves 3 and I realized I never posted the one for book 2. So here they are, both of them

Mates in Life and Death will be coming out on July 14th from Siren Bookstrand. It should be available for pre-order this week.

Two Mates for A Magistrate is set for July 26th. Two more books after that, also completed.

On this note, my thanks to all who purchased the first book. Looking forward to hearing your opinions on it.

New release: Spirit Wolves 1. A Mate Beyond Their Reach

2011-07-05T19:11:00.002+03:00

Hi everyone. Today is finally the release day of A Mate Beyond Their Reach. It's a menage paranormal and it is part of my Spirit Wolves series. The second book will be coming out in a week or so, and books 3, 4 and 5, throughout this month and the next. So do check it out if you like a shape-shifter tale with a twist.

Blurbie

When Doctor Andrew Blunt finds an injured wolf, the last thing he expects is to fall for the man behind the beast. Trent is everything he has denied himself—handsome, dangerous, and Drew's mate. But he is also a spirit wolf, and a carrier of a deadly virus that can turn any human insane.

Trent is a hunter, having lived all his life for his duty to defeat ferals—the plague of their kind. He does not expect a human mate. Claiming Drew would be impossible. Desperate to protect Drew, Trent finds himself in front of a new challenge—their other mate, Valerius, who is a Judiciary sent to keep the secret of their people safe.

Now, Drew has to face the dangers of a world he does not understand. Can Valerius and Trent save their mate before it is too late, or will Drew be forever beyond their reach?

A Siren Erotic Romance

Click me for spirit wolf goodness.

I really hope you all enjoy this book and this series. Looking forward to hear your opinions.

New cover art: Bed and Breakfast

2011-07-03T19:25:00.001+03:00

Hi! It's been a while since I posted on the blog, but I'd like to show off my newest cover, for my August release with Silver Publishing. The story is called Bed and Breakfast and it's the first in my Bloodkin series.

Marlais "Moss" Hayden is a young man who is sent away from his home town after his father loses their family fortune. When he is robbed, he is forced to look for employment. A "wanted" ad falls into his hands, advertising a position for "bed and breakfast". Believing it to be a servant job, Moss decides to check it out, only to find out the position is for a companion to offer "bed and breakfast" — sex and blood — to Vane Bloodmoor, a member of the bloodkin race.

In his capacity as a Kin Lord, Vane works to control the bloodkin from killing the humans in the area during feeding. His life's motto is to always keep control and not lose himself to his instincts. But when Moss appears into his life, he awakens unfamiliar feelings inside Vane. Intrigued, Vane offers Moss a job as a secretary and blood donor, promising to maintain a platonic relationship with the human. But as the two grow close, Vane finds it increasingly hard to keep his promise. He desires to possess and brand Moss as his. Torn between his promise and his emotions, Vane doesn't know what to do.

When human killings by bloodkin increase in his city, Vane makes up his mind and attempts to send Moss away. But there are more powerful forces at work. Vane and Moss soon find themselves thrust in a political plot that threatens to destabilize the world order as they know it. Can their budding relationship survive?

New cover: A Mate Beyond Their Reach

2011-06-11T08:57:00.000+03:00

I am very happy to announce that I received the cover for the first book in my Spirit Wolves series, A Mate Beyond Their Reach.

Blurb:

When Doctor Andrew Blunt finds an injured wolf, the last thing he expects is to fall for the man behind the beast. Trent is everything he has denied himself, handsome, dangerous, and Drew's mate. But he is also a spirit wolf, and a carrier of a deadly virus that can turn any human insane.

Trent is a hunter, having lived all his life for his duty to defeat ferals – the plague of their kind. He does not expect a human mate, since claiming Drew would be impossible. Desperate to protect Drew, Trent finds himself in front of a new challenge – their other mate, Valerius, a Judiciary sent to keep the secret of their people safe.

Now, Drew has to face the dangers of a world he does not understand. Can Valerius and Trent save their mate before it is too late or will Drew be forever beyond their reach?

The Spirit Wolves series is paranormal m/m/m and it is complete. The first book will be available on the 5th of July at Siren Bookstrand.

Guest: Marion Webb-Desisto - Character Interview

2011-06-07T20:46:00.000+03:00

Hi everyone. Today Marion Webb Desisto is here at my blog chatting with Prince Samael from her Angelic Chronicles. I think you will find his replies very enlightening. I certainly did. I'm now jealous of his love interest.

Interviewer: "I'm here today to chat to the archangel named Samael. Actually, you'll probably know him better as the devil, the one who rules Hell. So, Samael, I'd like to welcome you here. I’m Andrew and I'll be asking some questions and finding out more about you."

Samael: "You will address me as Prince Samael."

Interviewer: Oh, sorry, I didn't realize you have a title. Well, Prince Samael, let’s get started."

Samael: "I thought I was to be interviewed by a woman."

Interviewer: "Yes, well, how can I put this? My boss changed her mind about who should interview you. She heard you have an eye for the ladies and thought you might try to proposition a female interviewer rather than answer her questions."

Samael: "It is difficult for women to resist me. I am the first-born archangel, who has more power than any other. Some men also cannot refuse what I ask of them."

Interviewer: "Oh, uh... I don't think I'll be one of them. I'm really just here to pass on information about you to our readers. So, Prince Samael, I’d like to ask you about the place you rule. Is it really filled with flames, fallen angels and demons?”

Samael: “There are many fallen angels and demons, as well as humans in my realm. Parts of it are very hot, like the Pit, and other parts are icy cold, such as the outer boundaries that lie close to the Abyss, but there are no flames. That is a human misconception.”

Interviewer: “Ok, no flames. Now, we call your realm Hell, but you have a different name for it. What is it?”

Samael: “Abbadon.”

Interviewer: “And while on the subject of names, I thought yours was Lucifer, not Samael.”

Samael: “On some of his visits to Earth, Angel Lucifer has boasted that he is me. I presume he does it in order to present himself as being more powerful than what he actually is. This is how the mistake has arisen.”

Interviewer: “I see. Does his pretence annoy you?”

Samael: “No, why should it? I admire deception and keeping humans unaware of my true identity gives me an advantage over them.”

Interviewer: “Well, you just lost that advantage over me and those who read this interview.”

Samael: “Do not make such a remark! It angers me and you would be wise not to incur my wrath.”

Interviewer: “Oh, my apologies, Prince Samael, I was just trying to state the obvious. I don’t want to make you angry; I’ve heard the consequences are terrible for those who do. Can you tell us about those punishments?”

Samael: “I can have you thrown into the Pit where demons will attack you and drink your life force essence, or I might extract your soul with my lodestone crystal. Another punishment would be me severely injuring you with my crystal light wand.”

Interviewer: “Those all sound quite frightening, but I do have a couple of questions about them. You mention demons drinking essence. Is that like vampires drinking someone’s blood?”

Samael: “It could be considered similar. The life force essence flows through the bodies of archangels and angels, as blood flows through humans.”

Interviewer: “Ok, and what do you do with an extracted soul?”

Samael: “I keep it prisoner inside a dome where I keep all of the other extracted souls.”

Interviewer: “They say you collect souls, but I didn’t realize you do it literally. Continuing with the subject of punishment, I’d like to know if the holstered crystal on your left shoulder is the light wand you mentioned.”

Samael: “It is. My crystal wand is a trusty friend. Its three points emit rays, which can burn right through you. Their color is pale blue and they are as powerful as what, in your world, is known as a laser. Would you like me to demonstrate?”

Interviewer: “No thanks, I’ll take your word for it. Now, some questions about something a little more personal. As I said before, you have an eye for the ladies. You were in love with Archangel Malkura and she loved you, but your drastic change of character from good to evil turned her away. She has given her attention to your brother, Seriel, and appears to be in love with him. This must...”

Samael: “Do not make mention of that! I have abandoned my feelings for Malkura and banished Seriel from my realm.”

Interviewer: “Oh dear, I guess I’m making you angry again, but I really didn’t mean to, Prince Samael. You see, our readers love to hear about the love life of those we talk to so we try to include any updated romance news as part of each interview. I’m supposed to ask you about your consorts. Ok?”

Samael: “It will depend on what you ask.”

Interviewer: “Well, I believe they are Lilith and Kokabel. Correct?”

Samael: “Yes, but Lilith is no longer with me. I sent her back to the other demons for a reason I am not prepared to discuss with you. However, Angel Kokabel continues to live in my palace as my consort.”

Interviewer: “So may I ask if she is important to you?”

Samael: “I hold little regard for her. She remains with me only because I know it infuriates Angel Azazel. Kokabel was his consort until he disobeyed my command. That is another subject I shall not elaborate on.”

Interviewer: “One more question in the romance department. There is an angel named Manah with whom you’ve been keeping company. This is surprising because she is very different from you, being gentle and innocent. Are you attracted to Manah or do you hope to corrupt her?”

Samael: “The reason why Angel Manah visits me in Abbadon is strictly a confidential matter. I have no desire to tell you anything more about her other than to say this. When she is interviewed, nothing must be said to upset or concern her. If this should happen, I shall take action against whoever is responsible.”

Interviewer: “I’ll make sure the interviewer is aware of what you have told me. Shall we move on to something else?”

Samael: “No, I have given you more than sufficient insight into myself. I am leaving now.”

Interviewer: “Well, folks, he’s just flown away so that’s the end of our chat. Not the most enjoyable, but interesting. I think he’d probably have been more sociable if I was a woman.”

He sounds very sweet, doesn't he? All protective about Angel Manah. I'd certainly want a piece of that for myself. If you want to read more about him and Manah, check out the author.

Website - www.marionwebb-desisto.com

Blog - http://marionwebb-desisto.blogspot.com/

Amazon Author Page - http://www.amazon.co.uk/Marion-Webb-De-Sisto/e/B002A06PMK/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1

FaceBook - http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=671911733#!/pages/Marion-Webb-De-Sisto-Author/121238787930802

AuthorsDen - http://www.authorsden.com/marionwebbdesisto

Alternative-Read - http://www.alternative-read.com/aamarionwebbdesisto.htm

AuthorIsland - http://www.authorisland.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=748&Itemid=602

Release Day for Fire of the Four Seasons

2011-05-19T19:06:00.002+03:00

Yes, it's finally here. Fire of the Four Seasons is officially out, my second Russian twisted fairy tale. My babies are all grown up and ready to be... well, read :D. Check it out if you haven't done so!

Blurb

A slave of his sister Eva’s whims, Alexei is shocked when, in the process of getting her a gift, he meets four men who sweep him of his feet. Zimah, Visnah, Lyetah and Ohsyn are unlike anyone Alexei has ever met. They control the power of the seasons, and they agree to help Alexei. Their affection and generosity soon morph into passion and love, and Alexei allows himself to surrender to desires he had kept hidden for many years.

But when Eva’s unreasonable requests continue, Alexei refuses to take advantage of his men’s magic once again. His decision sets him, his sister and his lovers on a course of events that leads secrets of the past to be revealed. The hidden fire inside Alexei is about to burst out, and the love of the four seasons may not be able to extinguish it.

Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/fire-of-the-four-seasons

Excerpt:

"But, Mama, where am I to find violets in January?” Alexei asked.
“Go to the forest,” she suggested. “I hear there’s a grove at the very edge. Folk say flowers grow sometimes, in spite of the cold.”
Alexei gaped at her. How could she ask him to brave the icy winter through a peril-filled forest, all for a whim of his sister’s? Did she not love him at all?
Disheartened, Alexei nodded and obeyed. What else could he do? When his mother decided something, no one but Igor could make her change her mind, and even Igor had a difficult time.
He set out one more time, this time riding in the opposite direction. He knew his way there well, as he often went to the forest to gather firewood or fruit. Of course, this was the first time he’d actually come here during winter.
At last, the forest loomed ahead. Alexei idly noted it looked very different than he remembered it. A few months back, its lush and verdant vegetation welcomed Alexei. Now, the leaves had all fallen, and just snow covered the trees.
Still, the woods provided a welcome change to the extent that the winds no longer beat Alexei so heavily. Acknowledging the treacherous path, he rode slower. He had no idea where he needed to go. Even if he knew these woods well, he’d never heard of the grove Elga mentioned. Other than the vague indications his mother had given him, he just followed his instinct and hoped for the best.
Onward he went for the longest time. Finally, just as he started to consider returning home, he saw something ahead. A grove, just like his mother had said. Four tall standing stones rose in the center, the only change in the sea of white. Alexei could see no flowers, no violets, nothing. His tiredness turned into sheer hopelessness, and a heavy chill started to take over his limbs.
His eyes began to close, and Alexei struggled against the weariness. Unavoidably, he lost the battle, and his grip on the horse’s reins. He slipped off the animal, and expected falling into the snow, perhaps to his death. Instead, he fell into someone’s arms. “Easy there, young man,” a male voice said. “Be careful.”
Alexei’s vision swam for a few seconds, but as the dizziness faded, the sight that met his eyes shocked him beyond belief. The man holding him had hair as white as the pure snow and icy blue eyes, just like Eva. The resemblances stopped there, as Alexei felt a very strong and warm male body against him. The chill ran off as if it had never been, replaced by pure heat.
“What are you doing here?” another voice said. Alexei looked over his rescuer’s shoulder and caught sight of a second man. Alexei couldn’t be certain, but he thought his eyes and hair were green as grass. Who in the world had green hair? The second man lay reclining against one of the stones, his gaze filled with a peculiar warmth.
To Alexei’s surprise, he realized two other men waited in similar positions. The third one gave Alexei an amused look, his bright blond hair and amber eyes seeming to shine in the wane light. “I’m guessing his sister is being troublesome again. Isn’t that right, Alexei?”
At last, Alexei found his voice. “How do you know my name? And how do you know about Eva?”
The fourth man chuckled, brushing his red hair of his face. His penetrating brown gaze analyzed Alexei with interest. “We know many things.”
Freaked out, Alexei began to struggle in his captor’s hold. The white-haired man released him, and Alexei immediately felt the loss. He struggled not to let it show and found refuge next to his horse. “Who are you people? What do you want?”
“I believe we asked you that first,” the white-haired man said. “But since we do have the advantage of knowing your identity, we’ll introduce ourselves. I’m Zimah.”
The second man got up and bowed courteously. “Visnah.”
The blond also shot to his feet and began to head toward Alexei. “Lyetah.”
“And I am Ohsyn,” the last man said, also making his way to Alexei. “Now, can you answer the question?”
Alexei realized he was being very rude. After all, these men most likely saved him from death. Clearly, they weren’t common people. He didn’t know if they were pulling his leg with those names, since he’d never known anyone called “spring,” “summer,” “autumn,” and “winter.” But at this point, anything was possible. And Alexei found he felt safe here, in this grove, just talking with these strange men.
“Eva wanted violets,” he replied. “I couldn’t find any at the market, so my mother sent me out here. She said there’s a place where flowers grow in spite of it being winter.”
Zimah hummed, sounding thoughtful. “Time is this way for a reason,” he answered. “Can’t she wait?”
“Apparently not,” Alexei replied.
Visnah smiled at him. “Well, we can provide the violets easily enough.”
“But on one condition,” Zimah added.
“What condition?” Alexei inquired, almost afraid to ask.
“Nothing much,” Zimah replied. “We just require a kiss, one for Visnah and one for me.”

New series accepted

2011-05-13T20:39:00.001+03:00

Hi everyone. I'm betting you're rolling your eyes if you're reading this post. What, another series? She can't be sane. She didn't even finish the last ones. But yes, I did write another one. Only, this time - it's a more ambitious project. I've been working on it for the past few months and it has just been accepted with Siren Bookstrand.
The series is called Spirit Wolves and it is a paranormal m/m/m. It contains 5 books, all complete and due for release this autumn.
On a different note, remember Fire of The Four Seasons and Artie the Good Witch are both coming soon - just next week to be more exact. I'll put up the links for Seasons once it's available for pre-order.
Hope you're just as excited about this as I am.

New cover: Fire of the Four Seasons

2011-04-22T23:02:00.001+03:00

Just received the cover for Fire of the Four Seasons, and I love it. It is a Menage Amour m/m/m/m/m, the twisted fairytale I was talking about a few months back. Without further ado, here is the prettiness.

Tentative blurb:

A slave of his sister, Eva’s whims, Alexei is shocked when, in the process of getting her a gift, he meets four men who sweep him of his feet. Zimah, Visnah, Lyetah and Ohsyn are unlike anyone Alexei has ever met. They control the power of the seasons, and agree to help Alexei. Their affection and generosity soon morphs into passion and love, and Alexei allows himself to surrender to desires he had kept hidden for many years.

Artie the Good Witch now available for pre-order

2011-04-17T21:58:00.003+03:00

What the title says :). Artie is up for preorder at Silver Publishing.

My name is Artie and I have a problem. My dear grandfather Brew died, succumbing to his love for pastries and leaving me all of his possessions. I now officially own a crumbling tower and two black cats. Unfortunately, this means I also have to take on his responsibilities as a wizard, an impossible thing for me, since I am not one. I am a witch, a good witch, and terribly poor at it. My cats are no help, and they only mock me. My parents are off gallivanting Goddess knows where. I suck at casting spells, yet I am supposed to participate in the very important ritual of the Beckoning in Brew's stead.

To top it off, instead of trying to figure things out, I keep drooling over weird men and finding love in all the wrong places. Wizards and necromancers? What's next, a dragon? In my defense, choosing a boyfriend is really difficult when you're trying to resurrect the land and save its ungrateful people. It doesn't help that I have to avoid being seriously hurt by evil geniuses and cackling witches. Help me out here. I pay in hugs and black kittens. For an inquiry, call 0-900-ARTIE-THE-GOOD-WITCH.

Click here.

Awakenings release day

2011-04-16T20:48:00.002+03:00

It's release day for Awakenings! So after a far too busy morning, I'm finally posting, the cover, blurb and link. Say it with me - yay for my newest book!

Mermen twins Jaden and Chrys have been scorned all their lives by Atlantean society. The only one who cares about them is Prince Aurus. But when Aurus and Chrys fall in love, they leave Jaden an outsider. Secretly, Jaden wants his twin, but he keeps his sinful affection well hidden. After they are separated from Aurus, he is the only one who can comfort Chrys, even if only in a brotherly manner.

When the Atlantean king concocts a plan to hurt them, Jaden and Chrys run away, and their paths cross with Aurus's again. This time, though, a strange force interferes in their lives. A dark, powerful beast that lives in the depths of the ocean calls out to Jaden, luring him toward its lair. With Jaden in danger of disappearing forever, Chrys and Aurus are faced with a choice, a realization, and a decision. Will mysterious Vaar finally help the three mermen see the truth, or will he end their very existences?

Click me.

Dragon's Bloodmoon up for best book at HEA reviews

2011-04-13T18:58:00.002+03:00

Hi everyone.
Dragon's Bloodmoon is up for best book at HEA review both in the best book and best cover category. Drop by and vote. I'd be very grateful.
Best book
http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/p/best-book-contest_30.html
Best cover
http://hea-reviews.blogspot.com/p/best-book-contest.htm
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Procrastination... How do we get rid of it?

2011-04-12T10:24:00.001+03:00

Every person who works from home knows their greatest enemy is procrastination. It's difficult to keep disciplined and do your job when there are so many distractions. Whether it is the latest LOLcat, a FB app, obsesively looking for reviews or checking email (in the case of authors), everything seems engineered to stop us from working.

For my part, I've lost count of the number of FB apps I've used since getting an account. I'm a curious person so when my eye falls on something, I can't help but click. I've stopped using most, with the exception of a select few, but somehow, I still manage to waste time (see this blog post).

So how do you keep yourself from procrastinating? Thoughts?

Plot Bunny links

2011-04-11T08:41:00.000+03:00

The Plot Bunny is available from various distributors now, including the usual suspects, Amazon, All Romance and Bookstrand. Of course, don't forget the Silver website! It's always there first :D.

A couple of links for your enjoyment :)

http://silverpublishing.info/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/the-plot-bunny-p-219

http://www.bookstrand.com/the-plot-bunny

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-theplotbunny-536342-143.html

http://www.amazon.com/The-Plot-Bunny-Guardians-ebook/dp/B004U29WRQ/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1302498500&sr=8-13

New cover: Artie, The Good Witch

2011-04-11T08:04:00.000+03:00

Hello peeps. I received another cover from the very talented Reese Dante. This one is for a release I anticipate a lot, Artie, the Good Witch, coming soon from Silver Publishing.

Tentative blurb

My name is Artie and I have a problem. My dear grandfather Brew died, succumbing to his love for pastries and leaving me all of his possessions. I now officially own a crumbling tower and two black cats. Unfortunately, this means I also have to take on his responsibilities as a wizard, an impossible thing for me, since I am not one. I am a witch, a good witch, and terribly poor at it. My cats are no help, and they only mock me. My parents are off gallivanting Goddess knows where. I suck at casting spells, yet I am supposed to participate in the very important ritual of the Beckoning in Brew's stead.
To top it off, instead of trying to figure things out, I keep drooling over weird men and finding love in all the wrong places. Wizards and necromancers? What's next, a dragon? In my defense, choosing a boyfriend is really difficult when you're trying to resurrect the land and save its ungrateful people. It doesn't help that I have to avoid being seriously hurt by evil geniuses and cackling witches. Help me out here. I pay in hugs and black kittens. For an inquiry, call 0-900-ARTIE-THE-GOOD-WITCH.

Has it been a year already?

2011-04-07T07:39:00.001+03:00

I had a dream last night. It was about my puppy, Dolly, and she was a puppy angel. It's been almost a year since she died, and sometimes, I still look for her in the house, waiting for her to scratch at the door to be let in. Most of the time, I try not to think about it, but I still miss her, so very much.

I hope you're happy in doggie heaven, little fox, maybe going on road trips with other puppies like you used to go with us. I love you and I'll always remember you.

On Bad Reviews and Second Languages

2011-04-01T11:35:00.001+03:00

Hello to everyone and Happy April's Fools Day! I'm sure many of you out there are aware of the hype surrounding a bad review of a certain author. The author in question proceeded to insult the reviewer and the readers who offered their opinions. But I don't want to talk about that. It's already been discussed more than necessary. Perhaps it is self-centered of me, but what I mean to say is the following: When you want to criticize someone's writing, don't say "S/he writes like English is not her/his second language." It is very insulting to those of us who are non-native speakers/writers. IMHO, I don't make glaring mistakes, and false modesty aside, I'm good at English - and this is true for many other non-English authors out there. So without meaning to offend anyone, please consider this when you leave bad reviews.

The Plot Bunny release day

2011-03-26T23:05:00.001+02:00

It's finally here! The Plot Bunny is out from Silver Publishing. Here is the new link:
http://silverpublishing.info/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/the-plot-bunny-p-219I hope everyone enjoys reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Reviews for Deadly Mates

2011-03-14T08:07:00.002+02:00

Got the most awesome review for Deadly Mates 4: Dragon's Bloodmoon this morning. Among other things, Regina from Coffee Time Romance says
"The world building is excellent, and incredibly imaginative and I love how the author uses Greek, Chinese and other mythologies to help build her worlds. The emotion filled passion that encompasses the relationships between the three mates is also not to be missed. If you have not had the pleasure of reading a Scarlet Hyacinth book, then I strongly urge you to check her out today, she is one of the very best storytellers around!"
Full review here.
Regina also reviewed book 3 of Deadly Mates, but my technical difficulties make my updates a bit slower. *sweat drop
"Wow! All I can say is this book is every bit as spectacular as the first two books in this series. Ms. Hyacinth has done it again with Spell of the Predator’s Moon. This book has everything, mythology come to life, hot, sexy shifters, and a real mystery too. I loved the whole dynamics of how suddenly this werewolf has two mates instead of one. The confusion these three go through is well thought out, and the emotions described are so spot on that the reader cannot help but feel them right along with the characters. "
Full review here.
Thank you, Regina, for both your reviews!

Awakenings available for pre-order: link and excerpt

2011-03-08T22:19:00.000+02:00

Hi all! Just realized Awakenings is now available for pre-order and like I did with Bunny, I am posting an excerpt here.

Preorder here.

Excerpt

That night, Jaden lay down on the bed, staring at the ceiling in silence. His twin lay cuddled by his side, so close Jaden could feel Chrys's hot breath on his skin. Their quarters were small and cramped, unsurprisingly the worst of the entire hideout. They'd only received their own room because everyone else felt reluctant to share any sort of living space with them or be in their close proximity. In consequence, they only had one bed and that led to very tortuous nights for Jaden.

While Chrys slept on obliviously, Jaden couldn't help but feel tormented by his twin's heat. Chrys was, as always, so close, and yet, so far away. In moments such as these, though, restraint translated as agony. Touching Chrys would be so easy. His twin might not even know it, or if he did realize, Jaden could blame it on a random motion while twisting in bed. The temptation was so strong Jaden couldn't put it out of his mind. He slept poorly, and when he did, he always dreamed the same things: Chrys, over and over, glaring at him angrily, turning his back on him with disgust.

No, he couldn't take advantage of Chrys's vulnerability. He'd have to satisfy himself with merely watching his twin. In his sleep, Chrys looked so beautiful and peaceful, and for once not troubled by their disastrous circumstances. Jaden couldn't steal that away.

In a sense, he envied his twin's restful slumber. Lately, an unsettling gloom encroached upon his nights, and Jaden didn't know what to think of it. The nearness of the Forbidden Zone made him nervous, yes, but he hated the idea he'd turned into a coward. He loathed jumping at shadows and having nightmares about things that would most likely never come to pass.

Chrys's new plan, though, made Jaden wonder if he'd be able to get any sleep for the next few weeks. He could already see them trapped in the dungeons, slain at the hands of the king's guards, or worse. But he had to do this for Chrys and for Aurus too.

Sighing, Jaden tried to force himself to rest. Just when he thought he'd succeed, a small moan tore through his consciousness. He tensed and his eyes shot to his twin. Like before, Chrys clung to Jaden, but the peaceful expression had vanished, replaced with something that looked like pain. Concerned, Jaden pressed his hand to Chrys's shoulder, intent on shaking his twin out of the nightmare.

But then the worst possible thing happened. A gasp escaped Chrys's lips, and he actually leaned into Jaden's touch. His tail rubbed against Jaden's and when their scales made contact, Jaden bit his lip to suppress a groan. Pleasure shot through him, and he answered the intoxicating motion, thrusting back against his twin.

Chrys's moans turned louder, incomprehensible mutters, out of which Jaden could only catch a few random words. The occasional "yes" spurred Jaden on, his mind melting at the sensations that shot through him. There was no awkwardness, no fumbling. They simply fit together. How could they not? They'd been born that way.

He thought he even heard his brother call out his name, and realized in glee he'd been worried for naught. Chrys wanted him, just like he wanted Chrys. They'd be all right.

And then, among all the yeses and mores, Jaden understood one other word. Aurus. His brain instantly cleared, the haze of pleasure disappeared, his irrational hopes dashed. Of course. Of course his twin wouldn't have a dream about him. It had all been an illusion.

For the first time in his life, Jaden couldn't look at Chrys. If he stayed in this room, he'd die of heartache.

Carefully slipping out of the small bed, Jaden headed toward the door. After a final glance in his twin's direction, he went out. By now, he knew Chrys could take care of himself and the bandits would not bother him. At this point, they'd been separated many times because of their individual expeditions into the Atlantean capital. But where to go? Where could he possibly find refuge when nothing went as he wanted it to? His heart hurt, and he couldn't figure out any solution out of this inescapable situation.

The call from the distance returned and Jaden threw an angry glare toward the Forbidden Zone. Someone or something wanted him to go there. Very well. He'd go, and if the beast ate him, so be it.

Not allowing himself to change his mind, Jaden swam toward the dangerous abyss. He idly noted that the closer he got, the more barren the entire area seemed. In the end, there were no fish or vegetation left, only rock and sand. The darkness, though, seemed to have a life of its own, and Jaden shuddered, already regretting his decision.

He looked back, hesitating. Now that he'd left the bandits' lair, he could think with a clear head and realized he'd been very foolish. If something happened to him, Chrys would be very sad. Worse, the bandits might accept them now, but they could very easily change their minds. Chrys could be hurt if Jaden left him on his own, and Jaden wanted to avoid that at all cost.

And yet, even full of doubt, Jaden found himself swimming further, closing in to the proverbial area of no-return. He stopped when the rock broke off, and a deep chasm cut in the very bowels of the ocean floor.

His mad courage deserted him and Jaden didn't dare to go exploring further. He probably wouldn't be able to, anyway. The pressure would get more powerful as he descended, and even for mermen, that could be deadly.

Instead of taking such a foolish risk, he sat down at the edge of the ravine. "So what now?" he shouted. His voice echoed against the rock below, disappearing into the void. "What do you want?"

He didn't receive a reply, yet for some reason, he felt a satisfied, unseen presence. Frustrated beyond belief, Jaden lay down and absently stared upward. It was so dark down here that even he, with his mermen eyesight, couldn't see very well. For some reason, it comforted him. It made him forget how dirty he was inside, so dirty that all the waters of the ocean couldn't cleanse him.

"You know," he absently started to speak. "I'm in love with my twin. Yes, my twin brother. Crazy, isn't it? You can come out and eat me now, I deserve it."

Again, silence was his only answer. Jaden would have been frustrated, but he sensed the creature still lingered there, in the waters beneath. He decided he didn't particularly like the thought of facing a monster anyhow, but if it wanted to hear him rant and rave, Jaden could give him that.

"It's been like that for as long as I can remember. I mean, at first, it was normal sibling love." He paused, wondering how much a creature would understand before realizing the entire thing was absurd and stupid. The beast might be listening to Jaden's voice in preparation of attacking him. Strangely calm at the thought, Jaden didn't try to flee. Instead, he continued, "Well, I'm not sure you know, but with us, feelings toward brothers should be pure, chaste. I can't think of Chrys as just my twin, though. I want more. It hurts so bad he can't give me that, and I have to hide it from him."

Warmth invaded him, as if the presence tried to comfort him. The arousal he'd experienced rubbing against his twin returned with a vengeance. Jaden found himself lightly touching his own scales, imagining Chrys's hand on them.

The dark force seemed to egg him on, pouring sensual energy inside him. With his right hand, Jaden tweaked his nipple. In his mind, Chrys did everything. With the forbidden power there, invading him, it didn't even seem so far-fetched.

Pleasure swept through him as he explored his own body. He saw Chrys on the bed, gasping, rubbing against him. He dreamed his sibling's beautiful lips mouthed his name, "Jaden". Chrys had woken up and touched Jaden while fully aware. And someone else lingered there, too. Aurus, perhaps…and the presence. The presence! Oh, Sweet Sea Mother!

Jaden yelped, suddenly aware of what he'd said and done. What was he doing? Anyone could be down there, and if they found out about his secret, they could use it against him and Chrys. How could he act so shamelessly?

"I have to go," he said hastily, his body still buzzing with unfulfilled pleasure.

Nothing or no one tried to stop him and he swam out of the Forbidden Zone. By the time he made his way back to the bandit hideout, he felt a bit calmer. Thankfully, Chrys still slept and Jasper didn't comment upon Jaden's departure. Jaden lay down next to Chrys and closed his eyes. This time, when sleep took him, he dreamt of darkness engulfing him whole.

New story accepted: Fire of the Four Seasons

2011-03-08T19:21:00.003+02:00

Hello, everyone. Due to my enduring technological problems, I can't use the blog as much as I'd like, but I had to share my news. My newest story, Fire of the Four Seasons, has been accepted for publishing with Siren Bookstrand.

For those familiar with my previous books, it is somewhat similar to The Three Horsemen of the Black Forest, in the sense that it is also inspired from Russian lore. I don't have the blurb written yet, but it is fantasy menage mmmmm, a twisted fairytale like I love so much :). I hope you all will enjoy it as well.

Ebook week at Silver Publishing

2011-03-02T21:41:00.000+02:00

Hi everyone. The upcoming week is eBook Week and Silver Publishing is hosting a special promotion. From March 6 until March 12, all Silver titles excluding Coming Soon and New Releases will receive 30% discount if the reader purchases one New or Coming Soon release.
That is, if you buy a new title or one on the coming soon list, you receive 30% discount on all other books.
To add to that, Silver is also offering an e-reader to a lucky customer during the week in question. Naturally, I'm hoping you'll drop buy and purchase my coming soon, The Plot Bunny :D.

Click me for details.

New cover: Awakenings

2011-03-02T07:35:00.004+02:00

I'm so excited! I just received the final version of the cover for Awakenings, due out April 16th with Silver Publishing.

Blurb:

When the Atlantean king concocts a plant to hurt them, Jaden and Chrys run away, and their paths cross with Aurus's again. This time, though, a strange force interferes in their lives. A dark powerful beast that lives in the depths of the ocean calls out to Jaden, luring him to its lair. With Jaden in danger of disappearing forever, Chrys and Aurus are faced with a choice, a realization and a decision. Will mysterious Vaar finally help the three mermen see the truth or will he end their very existences?

The cover is just beautiful and illustrates what I wanted for the story perfectly. Thank you, Reese!

Free ficlet: Dark Fascination

2011-03-01T18:06:00.002+02:00

In celebration of my release today, I wrote a ficlet starring the main character, Pierre D'Argent, and Keenan von Klein from Destinies in Darkness. It offers some insight into Pierre's character, and it's only a spoiler if you haven't read the rest of the series.

Title: Dark Fascination

Pairing: Pierre/Keenan – stories: Destinies in Darkness, Mending Shattered Souls

Timeline: prior to main arc, after the prologue in MSS

Summary: Pierre struggles with his inner demons, but he cannot defeat his dark fascination for Keenan von Klein. He doesn’t even want to.

Pierre watched with anxiousness as his brother spoke on the phone. He could sense Jean Luc’s anger and frustration, and it didn’t bode well. “What do you mean a hundred are dead?” Jean Luc asked. “Damn it!”

Few things in this world could make Jean Luc react with such vehemence. If Jean Luc’s words hadn’t warned Pierre of the seriousness of the situation, Jean Luc’s emotions did a pretty good job of emphasizing it.

Jean Luc exchanged a few more words with the person on the other side of the receiver then cursed once more. There was a slight peak of power in the room and the communication device blew up, sending bits of plastic and metal all over the place.

Pierre winced as the telephone rotary landed in front of him, mentally counting the item as the fourth telephone Jean Luc destroyed. He hoped the Sidhe engineers could come up with something more enduring than the humans could.

That aside, he was concerned about the conversation. Restlessness had increased in Parisin the past few weeks. The paranormals did their best to keep their head down, but Jean Luc tried to take precautions regardless. Apparently, it hadn’t worked out.

“How bad is it?” Pierre asked his brother.

Jean Luc sighed and rubbed his eyes. “Very bad. I knew it wouldn’t end well. War never does.” After a short pause, he continued. “There were several paranormals, both Sidhe and of other races, who ignored the warnings and went out in the streets. The hunters took advantage of their foolishness and attacked them. Michel estimates up to one hundred are dead.”

“Mon Dieu,” Pierre murmured. The realization of death never sat well with him, especially when his own kind was concerned.

All of a sudden, a dark voice emerged in his mind, startling him. “So what if they are dead? They were idiots, and deserved to die.”

Pierre hastily silenced it, pushing it back in the recesses of his brain. This wasn’t the time for his little problem to manifest. He had to do his best to help his people. “What can I do?” he asked Jean Luc.

“There’s little we can do,” Jean Luc replied. “The other races are sending representatives. We’re meeting Keenan von Klein in a little over an hour.”

Pierre’s heart started beating faster at Jean Luc’s words, and this time, not because of anxiety. He’d met Keenan shortly after Jean Luc had returned from his voyage. The vampire was so handsome, elegant, well-mannered and wicked at the same time. Merely being in Keenan’s presence, no, hearing his name, made Pierre’s blood pulse.

“Remember, Pierre,” Jean Luc said, “stay out of the streets. I don’t have time to babysit.”

Pierre felt a surge of irritation at his brother’s words. It annoyed him that Jean Luc, and everyone else for that matter, considered him useless and helpless. He just knew that the voice would have emerged again if not for Keenan’s impending arrival. “I know,” he replied. “I’ll be careful.”

Keenan was the only one who didn’t compare Pierreto Jean Luc and find Pierre lacking. For that reason, Pierre would ever be grateful to the vampire.

“What about the injured?” Pierreasked. “Have they been transported to the hospital?”

Jean Luc looked at his watch. “Michel encountered some trouble in making sure the issue stays away from the eyes of the general public, but I’ll take care of it.”

Jean Luc rushed out of the room without another word. Pierre was left, as always, alone, stuck in the Sidhe compound with nothing to do.

Unwilling to drown in yet another bout of self-pity, Pierre proceeded to occupy himself by studying the reports still on his father’s desk. He found nothing of real concern there, and Pierre often did paperwork in the king’s stead. It was the only thing he seemed to be able to do.

Still, time passed him by while he went through the mind-numbing files and swept through the varied accounts of purchases or investments. Before he knew it, he heard voices in the hallway and felt the distinct presence of Keenan von Klein.

Immediately, Pierre shot to his feet, eager to greet the vampire. As he stepped out of the king’s office, he saw Jean Luc approach, with Keenan close behind him. “Greetings, Monsieur von Klein,” he said. “Welcome back, brother. How are things out there?”

“Hello, Pierre,” Keenan replied with a smile. “You look as beautiful as ever. Too bad our reunion had to be in such awful circumstances.”

“Indeed,” Jean Luc snapped irritably. “The situation is worse than originally estimated. We have to do some damage control. Pierre, have you received any news of Father?”

Pierre shook his head. King Laurent and Queen Jacquelyn had left a few months back on a second honeymoon and had yet to return. It was, in fact, at Jean Luc’s insistence, as Jean Luc feared the seriousness of the situation in Paris would escalate. Pierre was glad his parents were, at least, safe. “Last I heard they’d reached Brazil. They should be fine there.”

“We should contact them tonight,” Jean Luc mused. “Pierre, go ahead and see the doctors. They need all the help they can get.” Turning to Keenan, he said, “Come, Keenan. This way.”

Jean Luc passed Pierre, gesturing for Keenan to follow. The vampire did, but not before raking his gaze over Pierre in honest appraisal. “See you later, Pierre,” Keenan purred.

Pierre ignored his brother’s dismissal and took the invitation for what it was. So far, Keenan had manifested general interest in him, but without giving an outright offer. This time was different, though. This time, he’d get what he’d wanted for so long.

But his selfish desires would have to wait. Keenan had a job to do, and Pierre himself needed to help out at the hospital.

It took several days for the commotion to break down. Finally, between Keenan and Jean Luc, the arrangements were made and some damage control accomplished. Pierrehelped out with the injured, and this gave him renewed sense of purpose.

Five days from his arrival, Keenan announced he would be leaving the next morning. At once, Pierre knew he needed to act, lest he lose his chance.

That night, Pierre sneaked out of his room and made his way to Keenan’s. To his shock, Keenan was waiting in the hallway, arms crossed against a naked chest. He gestured Pierre in, having obviously known the Sidhe would come.

Pierre should have left. He should have clung to his dignity and retreated. He didn’t. Instead, he entered Keenan’s room, for once deciding to take what he wanted.

That night, Keenan descended upon him with the force of a hurricane. And when morning finally came, Pierre vowed to one day make Keenan his, forever.

Release day: Kaldor Saga 4: Mending Shattered Souls

2011-03-01T17:45:00.003+02:00

Yay! It's here! Kaldor Saga 4 is finally out. This is a story I love a lot, with a hero that has made a lot of mistakes and seeks salvation in love. I hope everyone will enjoy it as well.

KALDOR SAGA 4: MENDING SHATTERED SOULS

After his betrayal, Pierre D’Argent is tortured and broken by his own people. His only desire is to somehow find salvation in death. But a mysterious man going by the name of X rescues him, bringing a spark of hope in his life.

Love blossoms between them, despite Pierre’s incurable affliction and X’s amnesia. But shattered souls cannot be mended so easily. On the run from the Sidhe and vampire nations, at odds with their only allies, Pierre and X find themselves in a situation with no escape.

When X’s past reemerges, it brings even more complications and problems. But the worst is yet to come. The Kaldorian land of Xeetha is crumbling under the attack of hostile forces. The two lovers will have to fight for the freedom of the demon lands. Will love be enough to help them find a way?

Click me for excerpt and buy link.

Technology woes

2011-02-26T19:52:00.001+02:00

As some of my FB friends already know, I am in deep technological distress. My laptop had a very unfortunate meeting with the hardwood floor, due to my mother's absentmindedness. In one moment, I was catapulted from

Now don't get me wrong. It's not about the brand. I love my Old Faithful a lot. But unfortunately, the screen as shown above isn't the problem. The actual unit is so slow it boggles the mind. And my laptop was four months old, so you can imagine my distress.

At any rate, I'm satisfied I even have it and I can at least continue writing. Hopefully, I'll get my laptop back soon, although I doubt clumsy parentals are included in the warantee.

A few words on male beauty in fiction and fashion

2011-02-23T22:32:00.001+02:00

Many M/M authors, such as myself for example, like to use androgynous male figures in their fiction. It is somewhat of a trend, and very typical to Japanese yaoi anime and manga. Why? I'm not sure. Are we simply fascinated with the idea of male beauty? Do we prefer it over classical "handsomeness"? And then, there's the classical pairing of a strong top and a beautiful bottom. Do we want to recreate the same balance there is a heterosexual couple? I don't have a clue. Quite honestly, I don't know where this tendency stems from? Lately, I don't give a damn.

I admire beauty wherever I see it, be in in a flower or a man. Why am I writing about this? Because a friend of mine just showed me a couple of photos that have me in awe.

I've seen this model before, and his beauty struck me back then, just like it does now. His name is Andrej Pejic and he originates from Bosnia Herzegovina. When I first found a picture of him, I read the comments and was appalled at the amount of vitriol I read there, just because he is "beautiful" not "handsome".

Now don't misunderstand me. He is famous, rich and very appreciated by many, including famous fashion designers. What I mean to say is that beauty in all its forms is the same, and we can only admire it, like we would a beautiful rose. That's what I do when I look at these beautiful pictures - whether he is dressed as a woman or as a man. It inspires me to write, and whether I write handsome men or beautiful men, in the end, it doesn't matter. Love is love, no matter what.

Please note - I don't own these photos, so don't sue me :).

For more: http://models.com/models/andrej-pejic

Kaldor Saga 4: Mending Shattered Souls available for pre-order

2011-02-23T09:32:00.002+02:00

Woot! Kaldor Saga 4: Mending Shattered Souls is now available for purchase at the Siren Bookstrand website. This is a book I dedicate to all the loyal Kaldor readers who urged me on when I was in a slump. Thank you, everyone. I hope you enjoy the story.

Click me.

The book will be available on March 1st. Until then, I am gifting you with an extra excerpt. For more, just click on the link above :D.

He was lost, lost and damned to the darkness and to the pain. The shadows around him threatened to swallow him whole. But he wouldn’t go down without a fight. They’d regret their birth by the time he finished them off.
With vengeance burning in his veins, he tried to jump one of the blurry silhouettes that circled him. It was useless. Strong bindings kept his arms immobilized, and his wings weren’t much better. At first they seemed numb, but as the seconds passed, they started to hurt terribly. The prisoner gritted his teeth at the pain, knowing that it was a natural part of the healing process. After his wings were better, he had a chance at freeing himself.
For now, escaping would most likely be impossible. He was still trapped in some sort of earthling contraption, which effectively immobilized his arms, legs, and wings. He could feel tubes piercing his entire body, and his skin and bones burned as if having gone through a great fire. He was weak now, so he needed a good plan to escape.
A low chuckle sounded somewhere in front of him. As his vision became clearer, the prisoner located the source of the laughter in a middle-aged human dressed in a white robe, sitting on a simple stool. “You’re thinking about freeing yourself, you little freak? Forget about it!” The man got off the stool and walked up to his prisoner, laughing when the platinum blond tried to lunge at him. “Tsk, tsk. Be a good boy! After all, this will be your permanent home from now on, and you should consider making some friends.”
“Fuck you!” the warrior growled. “You can’t keep me here forever! I’ll get out eventually, and I’ll rip your heart out and make you eat it!”
A flash of fear passed through the human’s eyes, but then his gaze became sly and almost predatory. “I don’t think so. But maybe if you would cooperate with us…we could work together for the good of mankind. What do you say?” He smiled, passing a lascivious gaze over the warrior’s body. “I’m sure we could be great together.”
The warrior didn’t even try to suppress his surge of disgust. He just spat at his captor, giving a disdainful look. The man wiped the spit off his face, glaring at his prisoner and signaling other people dressed like him to come closer. “Idiot demon. You’ll regret that. I’ll give you a lesson you’ll never forget.”
The other men disappeared in the shadows behind the prisoner. Still bound, he could not turn his head to see what they were doing, but he could hear loud metallic sounds coming from somewhere in the back.
The man in white grinned. “Feeling a little frightened, are we?”
The prisoner scoffed. “There’s nothing you can do to me that I would ever fear.”
“We’ll see about that,” the man answered as he pulled a syringe from his pocket and injected one of the tubes.
The warrior hissed as the solution started affecting his body, his mobility restricted once more. The human grinned as he approached the prisoner and raised his head, whispering in his ear, “Last chance. Will you join our forces or not? Think about it. By my side, you’ll be free and powerful, feared and respected by all.”
The human’s tongue slipped into his prisoner’s ear, and his hands started roaming the bound man’s body. It was nauseating, and even in his drug-induced daze, the prisoner somehow managed to oppose it.
“Stop…touching…me!” he croaked out.
As if by miracle, the human’s touch disappeared. “Fine. You’ll beg for me to fuck you before the end.”
With that, the white-clad man sat back down on the stool and nodded to someone in the back. Suddenly the machine trapping the warrior started to vibrate. At first, the prisoner didn’t know what was happening, but suddenly an excruciating pain engulfed his back. He felt the machine pulling and pulling at his wings until the pain became too much to bear. He couldn’t move. He couldn’t fight. He could only suffer. As the contraption continued its work, some part of him yielded, and the prisoner felt the break in his body and his heart. He couldn’t help but scream as his black wings were ripped from his body.
“No!”

* * * *

As X’s eyes flew open, a figure loomed over him. On instinct, he attacked the unidentified figure, obviously another enemy bent on his destruction.
As he kicked and tore into the flesh of his enemy, the other man started to fight back. Between hits, X managed to hear the unknown person shout.
“Hey, stop! X, stop already! It’s me.”
The voice sounded familiar, and X shook the remnants of his dream only to identify the person he was fighting as Min. Min currently boasted several wounds, gained in his struggle with X, and X felt terrible for the attack on his friend. Min had already sustained enough physical damage for him to be the target of his attack.
“I suppose it is too much to ask you what you were dreaming about,” Min said shakily.
X didn’t say anything, just turned his back on Min Yu. “How are the others?”
“They’re fine for now,” Min replied. “They’ve kept the arguments to the minimum.”
X sighed, nodding at the former hunter. It was good news, but that didn’t mean the disease wouldn’t hit again soon.
Seeing that the storm would last a while, they’d decided to rest. One of them, either Min or X, would keep watch, in case anything happened. After his shift, X had finally managed to doze off. However, in the process, he’d ended up in that terrible place. He somehow knew that his dream must be a memory buried deep inside. Now that he had his wits, he could even face what he’d lost, the knowledge that they’d destroyed a very important part of him. His entire being screamed that there were many things he needed to remember, but whenever he tried, he found himself in front of a powerful barrier. For the time being, he had no choice but to abandon the idea of remembering, temporarily, to focus on Pierre. After all, his memories weren’t essential right now, but he did need to take care of the young Sidhe.
He had no idea why Pierre attracted him so much. By rights, they didn’t know each other, but there was a vulnerability and a sorrow inside Pierre that X thought he could understand. He wanted to make things better, to help Pierre heal and the brothers reconcile.
Out of the corner of his eye, X stole a look at the Sidhe. The D’Argent brothers had been attempting to rest at the other side of the cabin, but right now they were very much awake, a fact that was to be expected taking into account the noise he’d made upon waking up. As he looked outside to the snowy mountain, X hoped they wouldn’t have any trouble with the DSS. They had escaped the storm, but it still prevented them for making further progress. They were still too close of the Sidhe facility for comfort.
“I think we should get moving,” Jean Luc said, as if guessing his thoughts. “Michel and the others can’t be far behind.”
Min assented, his exotic features showing his displeasure as he thought about the Imperials. The memory shook X as well as he remembered the first time he’d set eyes on Jean Luc. Had it only been a few days ago? It seemed like forever. The image of Jean Luc being dragged off by the Imperials quickly morphed into Pierre and the way he’d look when X had met him.
X got up and made his way across the small cabin, suddenly feeling the need to ensure Pierre was there, safe, by his side. The memory of his beautiful eyes filled with pain, that desire to die, still plagued X. It would probably continue to plague him his entire life, just like the image of his pure-hearted lover turning into a monster.
X fought the painful images resurrected by that thought. He didn’t want to think about that now, because now, Pierre’s beautiful blue eyes were clear, like a cloudless sky, giving him a look of genuine concern. It was more than obvious that his brother had practically forced him to stay out of the fight between him and Min.
Just when he was walking over to Pierre, X felt something approach. He saw Jean Luc tense at the same moment, and Min immediately took out his weapons.
Pierre paled. “H-How far are they?”
“Not far,” Jean Luc said flatly. “We won’t have time to lose them this time.”
X nodded at the words of the silver-haired Sidhe. The way Jean Luc could analyze things so coldly always startled him, but the older Sidhe would be an asset in the fight to come. The Imperials were a force to be reckoned with. X and his friends were in for a terrible time.

People watching - or where writing starts

2011-02-22T19:14:00.003+02:00

Have you ever seen a dog begging for food? Or maybe a hungry kitten is meowing, rubbing against someone in hope of getting a treat? There are three scenarious that can be expected - being ignored, being fed, or being cast aside.
Sometimes, I think imagination is a lot like that, hungry. And just like the stray kittens and dogs, they beg for food. How do you feed it?
I people watch. I admit it, it's a personal guilty pleasure. When I look out the window, either from the train or from the bus, I love to see the flashing silhouettes of others passing me by. Sometimes, I see a man talking on the phone and I wonder, what is he talking about. Seeing a person move his or her hands in a certain way or watching her fiddle with a ring always draws my attention. I wonder what's on their mind right now. What makes them nervous?
There is just so much in this world that we cannot fathom unless we see it echoed in others. It is said that people always understand themselves less than they do everything else. Maybe that's where it starts.
The newspapers are always filled with the same stupid stuff, 99% of it either rape and murder, or political intrigue. Watching the news is not people watching, but it's illuminating in its own way. Everything is so fake and hypocritical that you can have fun hunting for the cracks in the facades of the politicians. If they are there.
But in the end, I am a romance author, and I want to see honest interaction. So I people watch. Sometimes, even in my own home. Have you ever taken the time to see how your loved ones act when they want to ask you something, but know they shouldn't? Or how they act when they're hiding something? Or am I just weird for doing it?
Today, I caught myself doing it to my mom :). It's always a marvel to observe a person you know so well and realize that you actually know so little.
I like to see love out there, people holding hands, laughing. I like to see honest affection in couples and families. And I watch it, just like I watch the occasional conflict on the street, be it taxi drivers screaming at each other in the busy summer traffic or two kids fighting over a treat.
Sometimes, I ask myself how do they see me. And how do we all look to that higher power, or to any other race that exists other than us? Even cats and dogs, they have their own way of people-watching. So what do they think?
Maybe my writing starts here, in observing people. And it's quite an enjoyable past time :) Try it. You might be surprised at what you'll find.

And with that, I'm going back to my WIP :D. I've procrastinated enough for today.

The Plot Bunny available for pre-order

2011-02-19T22:39:00.004+02:00

Hi everyone! Just wanted to let you guys know Guardians 1: The Plot Bunny is now available for pre-order with Silver Publishing. It's a story I love a lot, and I hope you will enjoy it too. The release date is 26th March. For now, since an excerpt is not available on the Silver website, here's a taste of it below.

Lucas Black, a famous author, finds himself struggling with writer's block. As he falls further and further into his obsession, his lover Simon breaks up with him. Depressed, Luc prays for a muse and is surprised when his prayers are actually answered in the person of a young man named Dury, who claims to be Luc's plot bunny. Dury is everything Luc shouldn't like, eccentric, mysterious, and far too beautiful. But in spite of his doubts, Luc cannot help but feel an increasing affection for Dury.

After his painful separation from Luc, Simon Roth is unable to continue sculpting. Seeing his ex on the street with someone else only serves to reopen old wounds. To his shock, that someone -- a mysterious man named Dury -- begins to stalk him, pushing Simon to contact Luc once again. Simon realizes with dismay that Dury's gentle coaxing reaches out to a deep part of him, one he'd thought reserved for his lost love, Luc.

Even as the two artists acknowledge their feelings for each other, they understand they have both fallen for Dury as well. Dury, however, hasn't told them everything. His secrets may well be the death of them all.

Click me.

Excerpt: Dury's meeting with Luc

“This is shit,” Dana Johnson said as she dumped the manuscript on the table. “I expected more from you. I can’t believe this is written by the same person who gave me those brilliant works of art.”

“Well, the dungeons and dragons style just isn’t working out for me anymore,” Luc replied calmly. Inside, he felt anything but calm. He knew Misfortune – formerly known as Misunderstood – was a bunch of crap. He’d basically spouted random stuff on paper, his frustration turning his every word into a big, fat cliché. His previous works, two fantasy novels set in an alternative universe, dealt with a theme quite common in literature, but somehow, he’d managed to give it a twist, change the old orc-and-elf into something different. That spark had vanished now and it didn’t surprise him that Dana noticed.

His publisher was a slender red head who reminded Luc of the figure skater Marina Anissina. She could have been a model, but she’d chosen publishing instead and she was great at it. Unfortunately, that also meant she was very critical of the works under her care. Luc felt both thankful and annoyed for that. He knew his novels couldn’t have become so popular without her assistance, but he’d really hoped she could give him some real input, not just “this is shit”.

“I’d say it isn’t working,” Dana snarled. She tossed the manuscript at him, offering him a disdainful look as he ducked. “You take this, and wipe your ass with it. It’s useless for me. I want real writing, not this crap.”

Mentally cursing, Luc gathered the scattered papers and gave a short bow. “Will do, my lady.”

She obviously wanted to say something else, maybe end their meeting on better terms, but he didn’t give her the chance. Opening the door, he made his escape. He held onto his manuscript like a shield as he passed people on the corridors, ignoring the curious looks he received. He knew he looked like hell. His once glossy black locks looked limp, having long ago adopted the cow-lick greasy style. Deep circles shadowed his eyes and spots appeared on his skin due to poor nourishment. By some miracle, he hadn’t put on weight, but he still didn’t make for a very appealing sight. He wished he’d put more effort into looking presentable for his meeting with Dana. As it was he was starting to get desperate, and it showed.

As he exited the publishing house, Luc thought that perhaps he should quit writing altogether. He didn’t seem to be very good at it lately, and his funds were definitely waning. At this rate, he’d have to turn to his parents just to live. How humiliating would that be?

He missed Simon. He missed the way the other man would laugh and cheer him up when things looked bad. When they kissed and made love, Luc felt he really was in one of the fantasy worlds he’d imagined for his characters. A part of him wanted to beg for Simon to take him back, but at this point, his knew his ex-boyfriend deserved better than a washed out, has-been writer.

The solemn sound of a bell toll drew him out of his musings. Luc didn’t know why, but it moved him, attracted him. Perhaps it was cheesy, but didn’t priests always say God brought His children peace? Maybe it would work. Luc was definitely willing to try.

Abandoning his quest for a cab, Luc followed the sound of the bell tolls until he reached a large, beautiful building. As he stared at the wooden door, he hesitated. He hadn’t been to Church for ten years, more specifically since he’d come out. Thankfully, his family had never been religious people, and they’d taken the news as well as could be expected. Slight awkwardness, disappointment, maybe even a touch of fear. Things were better now, and he’d actually considered introducing Simon to them.

Shaking himself, Luc opened the door. The hinges creaked in an obscenely loud way, or so it sounded to Luc. The silence inside the church astounded him. It seemed like a whole different world, and Luc thought that in moments such as these, when people didn’t flock together to Mass, crowding the beautiful building, he really could appreciate the peacefulness of it all.

Yeah, he was antisocial. So what?

As he looked around, a priest in a dark cassock emerged from somewhere in the back. “Can I help you, son?” he asked.

“I don’t know,” Luc replied. “Can you?”

The priest gestured him to the confession booth, but Luc shook his head. He didn’t have any sins to confess – well, probably he did, but nothing that weighed on his soul. He just wanted advice, support from someone who wouldn’t say “I told you so” or “Get a real job”.

They sat down together on the benches. The priest introduced himself as Father Michael and Luc found himself pouring everything out, his problems with the book, his fears and insecurities, even his homosexuality and Simon. He couldn’t help but ask, “What if the others got it right? What if this was some sort of punishment for being gay?”

“God doesn’t punish like that,” the priest replied. “He is our Father and he loves us all.”

Luc arched a brow. “You don’t think I’m a deviant for liking other men?”

The priest paused. “I can’t say I understand it and my Church definitely doesn’t condone it. But I simply can’t believe the Lord would punish someone to eternal damnation just because of their sexual orientation.”

Luc nodded. He felt better simply at getting all this weight off his chest. “Thanks for listening.”

“No problem,” Father Michael replied. “You can come here any time and stay as long as you like. I’ll leave you to gather your thoughts now.”

With that, the priest departed. Luc sighed and leaned against the bench. “Gather my thoughts, huh?”

He stared at the quiet church, taking in the beauty of it all. Religious ornaments glittered around the altar and saints smiled benevolently at him from paintings and engravings. Filtered through the stainless glass of the windows, the light seemed to shine in a thousand colors. Beautiful. Why couldn’t he come up with something like that? Why were his stories dead?

“I need a muse,” Luc said out loud. He’d heard and read all sorts of stories about artists, from sculptors to authors, receiving supernatural help from the gods. Perhaps that was what he needed, some help from above to kick start his stuck imagination. “Come on, old guy,” he pleaded. “Help me out here.”

“I’m not sure He’ll appreciate being called an old guy,” a male voice suddenly said behind him.

Luc let out a gasp of surprise and turned. Here he was trying to find peace and some idiot interrupted him with random remarks.

“What the hell?” he began. His words died in his throat the sight of the intruder. A young man sat on the bench behind Luc’s, his green eyes analyzing Luc with mischievous amusement. Luc couldn’t see much of his body, since the light didn’t suffice for an adequate examination, but those eyes burned through the darkness. He wore a funky black cap inscribed with the logo of the Playboy bunny. A tight T-shirt hugged his slender torso, flirtingly asking, “Won’t you be my seme?”. It made Luc want to look around for a candid camera.

The young man made a shushing motion. “We’re in a church. You shouldn’t speak like that.”

The words snapped Luc out of his trance. Right, the kid had been eavesdropping on him. “How am I supposed to react then, when I am being spied on?”

The young man had the gall to look surprised. “Spied? You called for me, didn’t you?”

Luc gaped. “I did what?” Had he accidentally dialed the number of one of his former fuck buddies? Nah, he would remember those beautiful eyes, those full lips. Don’t stare, Luc, don’t stare. You’re in a holy place.

“You wanted a muse,” the young man replied, unfazed. “Well, here I am.”

This time, Luc couldn’t even find an answer. What could one say when faced with something like that?

“You look surprised,” his little tormentor said. “Come on, let’s go outside.”

He got up, and when Luc followed his example, took Luc’s hand and started pulling him toward the exit. Luc tripped against the bench, making the massive piece of furniture tilt alarmingly and threaten to fall. The young man gave him a reproachful look. “Be careful.”

Luc opened his mouth to deliver a scathing reply. He never would have tripped in the first place if not for the irritating little twerp. But he didn’t even have time to protest. He was practically swept off his feet by this young man with a lot of imagination and even more craziness.

As they left the church, Luc finally got a better view of his captor. The young man was slender, but toned, his clothing as peculiar as his charm. Strands of blond hair escaped the cap, falling over the boy’s face in a naughty curtain. The outfit was completed by combat boots, black tights and a short, ruffled skirt that offered a tantalizing view of the curves of the youth’s ass.

Luc knew he was staring, but he couldn’t help it. He knew plenty of drag queens and cross-dressers, but this young man seemed nothing like them. He created his own style that went beyond his clothes. His eyes, his smile and everything about him mesmerized Luc.

The young man did a little pirouette, presenting himself for Luc’s enjoyment. “You like?” he asked.

Luc hesitated, trying to find the appropriate response. Yes, he liked – and very much. But saying that would encourage this whole interaction and Luc didn’t think that was a very good idea.

“I know,” the young man said. “Beyond words, right? I’m flattered.”

“Riiight,” Luc replied. “Well, I’d better be going now. You know, things to do, manuscripts to tear apart.”

The youth’s expression turned serious. “Yes, of course. After all, that’s why I came.”

He took Luc’s hand and grinned. “Come on. Lead the way. Oh, and before I forget, my name is Dury.”

Happy Valentine's Day! A short for my readers

2011-02-15T08:56:00.000+02:00

Happy Valentine's day! To celebrate the occasion, I wrote a short ficlet bringing together characters from my two series, Deadly Mates and Kaldor Saga. They'll never actually meet in the main arc, but I thought it would be fun to imagine it just the same. Enjoy!

Title: Our first Valentine
Pairings: Kaiden/Viktor – Deadly Mates 1: Moon's Sweet Poison
Gabriel/ Lucien – Kaldor Saga 1: Enraptured
Summary: Viktor goes to look for a last minute present for Kai and meets an unusual person.

Viktor scanned through the available products, the overflow of fluffy hearts and stuffed animals making his head swirl. It was Valentine's day, and much to his shame, it had completely slipped his mind. He'd never had to celebrate it before, as he'd been single and alone, but this year, he had a mate, a very beautiful, sexy mate who deserved the most romantic present in existence.
He'd been amazingly busy with reorganizing the pack, but that didn't make for an appropriate excuse for his forgetfulness. Viktor knew Kai had never celebrated Valentine's – snake shifters simply did not do that sort of thing. All the more reason why he'd have liked to find a nice present for his mate.
Unfortunately, the best presents couldn't be bought at the last moment, and Victor desperately tried to find something to at least compensate for the lack and hope Kai would forgive him.
He browsed through the fluffy animals and caught sight of something that looked like a tail. Could it be? No, it wasn't possible. No one in his or her right mind would make a snake plushy.
He made an attempt to reach for it, and his hand hit the one of another person. He looked up only to meet a blue gaze that, strangely, reminded Viktor of his own eyes. A tall blond blinked at him and pulled his arm back. "Apologies," he said.
His voice sounded accented, low and slightly awkward. Viktor didn't know why, but it made him amazingly curious. "Looking for a last minute present?"
The blond nodded. "I just found out about the celebration. My people don't have it."
Viktor suppressed the urge to gape. Where had this guy lived before, another world? But he did look confused, so Viktor just made a sympathetic comment. "I forgot. My mate is going to be so upset."
The word "mate" slipped out so easily, but the man didn't even blink. Viktor judged that the his new acquaintance was some sort of supernatural being. He certainly didn't smell human, although his scent wasn't familiar to Viktor at all. "You're having trouble finding the right gift," the blond said. "Well, what does your loved one like?"
That was easy. Kai liked warmth. But he couldn't exactly buy his mate a blanket. They had tons in the house, and it wasn't a romantic gift. "He likes to be warm."
Viktor very much liked to keep Kai warm, in interesting and sexual ways, but a sexual gift did not suffice in this case. As if guessing Viktor's thoughts, the man grinned at him. "I see. Perhaps a dinner might work. I hear some dishes can have that effect. And in the end, don't people here say it's the thought that counts?"
Viktor considered the other man's words. It made sense. Of course, he'd have liked to make something more elaborate, but Kai did enjoy spicy dishes. Next year, Viktor would have to remember to order something beforehand.
As Viktor contemplated his options, the man picked a pretty plushy with a baby holding a heart. "Congratulations," Viktor said, guessing the man would be a father soon.
The blond's expression turned incredibly tender. "Thank you. Children are a wonder, aren't they?"
Viktor didn't know, since he didn't have children and he probably never would. Nevertheless, he nodded. "That's true. I appreciate the advice. I think I'm going to go find a catering company to arrange it."
The man looked confused, but in the end, he said, "By any chance, would you happen to know if this company sells flowers?"
"Err… No. But there is a florist's on the way, if you'd like to try."
They left the shop after the blond paid for the plushy – far too much, apparently. The cashier's eyes boggled and she stammered as she thanked them.
Viktor's companion didn't pay her any heed. "Where is this shop?" he asked.
Still confused as to the man's behavior, Viktor led his companion. to the florist's store. He waited for a few minutes while his companion selected his new purchase. He'd have liked to hurry to buy his own presents, but he couldn't just leave. Thankfully, the blond didn't take long and chose a beautiful bouquet of white roses. Strangely, he had the florist put the roses in a bag.
"Well, I guess I'll find my mate now," the blond said. "It was nice talking to you. I'm Lucien by the way."
Viktor extended his hand and they shook. "Viktor."
As they exited the florist's, Viktor spotted a small brunet rushing in their direction. The young man reached them and turned blazing black eyes toward Lucien. "Where have you been, Luce? I've been looking all over for you."
Lucien pecked the smaller man on the lips. Under Viktor's very eyes, the purchases vanished into thin air. So this was why Lucien had placed the flowers in a bag. He'd know his mate was in the area and wanted to keep the presents a surprise. "Just looking around, Gabriel. Where are the others?"
The young brunet – Gabriel, apparently – blushed. "I left them in the café."
Lucien gave Gabriel a scolding look. "I told you a million times I don't want you to be alone."
"But you were taking so long…" Gabriel answered. "I missed you."
Viktor now felt like the third wheel, and the obvious love between the two made him ache for his own lover. "Well, Lucien, I'll be off."
The blond turned toward him, having obviously forgotten about his presence altogether."Good luck with your mate."
"Likewise," Viktor answered.
The two men walked away, leaving Viktor confused and shocked. But weirder things had happened in his life. Shrugging to himself, he walked away, busy plotting his romantic dinner.
That night, armed with an oriental meal he'd spent an inordinate amount on, Viktor waited for his mate to come home. Thankfully, he'd managed to distract Kai by asking him to visit the home of their pack's Beta, Flame.
He'd just finished arranging the final details when he heard the front door open."I'm back," Kai called out.
"In here," Viktor said.
Kai walked into the dining room and promptly froze in his tracks. "What's all this?" Kai asked. His beautiful lips twisted into a barely perceptible smile and his gold eyes shone in pleasure. Anyone else might have missed it, but Viktor saw the sheer happiness and honest glee.
"A gift," Viktor answered. He walked around the table and to his mate. Wrapping Kai into a tight embrace, he whispered, "For my sweet love."
"Oh, Viktor…" Kai murmured. "Thank you. I… "
Their lips met into a sweet kiss, and Viktor groaned as he felt his mate's chilly skin warm under his touch. They broke apart panting and Kai offered him a small smile. "I did get you a little something," he said in a small voice.
Viktor arched a brow. "Oh?"
Kai retrieved a small package from his jacket and fidgeted uncomfortably. "It was an impulse buy. It's stupid. I'll throw it away."
Viktor snatched the present from Kai's grip before his mate could do such a thing. He opened in, curious to see what his lover had bought. Much to his surprise, he found a small bottle inside. It was a bottle that said, "Anti-fleas." Viktor opened it, sniffed it and grinned. "It would have been such a waste if you'd thrown it away."
A waste, indeed. They both enjoyed warming lubricant a lot, and Viktor planned to enjoy this particular one tonight. "Happy Valentine's Day!" Kai said, the hiss in his speech obvious now.
"Happy Valentine's Day, Kai!" Viktor answered.
Their romantic dinner was left forgotten and cooled off while they put Kai's present to good use.

First post!

2009-05-29T22:30:00.000+03:00

Welcome to Scarlet's Slash!

This is an alternative site, hopefully easier to find for my other site:

http://scarlethyacinth.webs.com/

I will try to update more with information on my books, new fiction and other things you might want to know.

Until then, do visit the other site for some info on my writings.

Best,

Scarlet