• Book Release,  Gay or MM

    Read The Lord and the Frenchman by Neil S Plakcy the new #Historical #MMRomance #Victorian #WriteLGBTQ @neilplakcy #RLFblog

    Read The Lord and the Frenchman the new #Historical #MMRomance #Victorian #WriteLGBTQ by Neil S. Plakcy @neilplakcy #RLFblogTwo wounded men discover true love and a found family in Victorian England.

    Neil, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about The Lord and the Frenchman.

    The Lord and the Frenchman by Neil S Plakcy

    Genre MM Romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings):

    In the opulent courts of Victorian England, John Seales, Lord Therkenwell, is a man of wealth and privilege, expected to marry a woman of his own social standing and produce an heir. But when he meets dashing French diplomat Raoul Desjardins at a soirée arranged by a politically-connected gay couple, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to the man despite the risks of their forbidden love.

    John and Raoul struggle to keep their feelings for each other hidden while becoming ensnared in a web of international intrigue that threatens to ruin their careers and endanger their lives. As they navigate the dangerous political landscape of the time, they must also confront their own demons and make a choice: follow the expectations of society or follow their hearts. Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous era, “The Lord and the Frenchman” is a passionate and romantic tale of love that knows no bounds.

    Why did you write this book?

    I love MM historical romance, and two years ago I decided to write one of my own—The Gentleman and the Spy. Reader response encouraged me to write a second loosely connected one. It was great fun to dive back into the Victorian era and develop two characters who belong together—but who could be torn apart by the larger forces around them.

    What is your favorite genre to read?

    While I do love MM romance, my favorite genre to read is cozy mystery with a touch of romance. I write my own series, the golden retriever mysteries, and I love the idea of being transported to a charming little town—with murder in the offing!

    Who is your favorite character from fiction (not including your own)?

    Guido Morris from Happy All the Time by Laurie Colwin. He understand that happiness is an art form that requires energy, discipline, and talent, and devotes himself to that pursuit. I wish I could be so single-minded in developing happiness in my own life. So I work on providing that for characters.

    What are you working on at the moment?

    The heroes of my Have Body, Will Guard series are heading to Jordan to rescue a friend’s family in an as-yet untitled book. Lots of research necessary for that one!

    What books will we see from you in coming months?

    I’m juggling several series. The next Mahu Investigation (gay mystery/police procedural) is The Virgin Homicides, about deadly incels in Honolulu. Then Dog of Thieves, the 16th golden retriever mystery. Jeff Berman, the hero of Being John Church, a mystery/romance that came out last year, is delving into the death of a high school classmate 30 years before.

    Where to buy The Lord and the Frenchman

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Lord-Frenchman-Ormond-Romantic-Adventures-ebook/dp/B0BSH6ZL4N/
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lord-and-the-frenchman-neil-s-plakcy/1142969348?ean=2940167013803
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-lord-and-the-frenchman/id6445491482
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-lord-and-the-frenchman

    Neil S Plakcy Social Media

    Author of over fifty cozy mystery, gay mystery, and MM romance novels, Neil S Plakcy lives in south Florida with his husband and two rambunctious golden retrievers. During the great lockdown of 2020 he honed his skills as his own barista.
    Website https://www.mahubooks.com
    Blog http://mahubooks.blogspot.com
    Twitter https://twitter.com/NeilPlakcy
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/neil.plakcy
    Pinterest http://pinterest.com/neilplakcy/boards/
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/neilplakcy/
    Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/126217.Neil_Plakcy
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/neil-s-plakcy
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/~/e/B001JP4EL6
    Get to know Neil S Plakcy better by signing up for an email newsletter at https://www.mahubooks.com

     

  • Book Release,  Vampire

    Read Illuminated the new #MMRomance by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #Vampire

    Read Illuminated the new #MMRomance by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #VampirePhotographer Ethan finds a man half dead and bleeding in an abandoned church. Ethan helps him, only that man is not a man at all, but a vampire. In Alexa Piper’s new vampire romance, fated love clashes with zealous hate, creating a storm Ethan and Auris must weather.

    Alexa, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Illuminated.

    Illuminated by Alexa Piper

    Genre mm vampire romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Ethan is a photographer who loves the interplay of light and shadow in his work and what it reveals. While working on his latest project, he finds himself at an abandoned church after nightfall. Lured by the prospect of capturing something unique with his camera, he ventures inside.

    What Ethan discovers in that forgotten place is not what he expected. Instead of sights unseen for decades, Ethan finds a man — bleeding, hurt, and in need of help.

    What Ethan doesn’t know is that he isn’t freeing an ordinary man, but an ancient vampire.

    Through a haze of blood and violence, Ethan will have to come to terms with a situation nothing could have ever prepared him for. Auris drinks blood and deals death with ease, but Ethan soon discovers that the vampire is not just a monster. Auris is more, so much more. As if it were illuminated with a camera flash, Ethan can almost see himself and Auris have a shared future. Yet, those who tried destroying Auris once will stop at nothing to do so again.

    Content Warnings: Illuminated (Vampire Tales 1) contains scenes of violence, murder, kidnapping, and torture that may be triggers for some readers.

    Why did you write this book?

    I had the idea for Illuminated when I was dozing in bed one morning, still half asleep. Some people dream about puppies and unicorns, but I had this very clear picture about a very violent confrontation happening in an abandoned church.

    What is your favorite genre to read?

    I like a good urban fantasy, but really anything with sf, fantasy, or horror elements. I prefer my books to be queer.

    Who is your favorite character from fiction (not including your own)?

    At the moment, I’m quite fond of Rune from KD Edwards’ Tarot Sequence.

    What are you working on at the moment?

    Right now, I am actively working on the sequel to Illuminated. We’re going to Prague!

    What books will we see from you in coming months?

    A Subtle Scar is an MMM urban fantasy romance and kicks off a new series that started life as a Hellbound spin-off. Then, the Illuminated sequel. After that, the Moonlight Cherries sequel.

    Read Illuminated the new #MMRomance by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #Vampire

    Where to buy Illuminated

    Publisher https://www.changelingpress.com/illuminated-vampire-tales-1-b-3469
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BRYH18RW
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/illuminated-alexa-piper/1142924671
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6445350679
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/illuminated-11

    Alexa Piper Social Media

    Alexa Piper writes steamy romance that ranges from light to dark, from straight to queer. She’s also a coffee addict. Alexa loves writing stories that make her readers laugh and fall in love with the characters in them.
    Website https://alexapiper.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/ProwlingPiper
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/255026848996374
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/piperthewriter/
    TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@alexapiperwriter
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14017396.Alexa_Piper
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/alexa-piper
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Alexa-Piper/e/B010EFQIRY
    Get to know Alexa Piper better by signing up for an email newsletter https://alexapiper.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ff9c4810ddb3c68da564c6a92&id=3585441fba

  • Character Quirks,  Gay or MM

    Read a Quirky Character Interview with Rory from Rory & Ink by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomance

    Read a Quirky Character Interview with Rory from Rory & Ink by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomanceIn Alexa Piper’s Rory & Ink, which concludes the story of Rory and his monster mate (for now), magical twink Rory finds that he must use the magic he never wanted in order to save the family he never dared hope he’d end up with. Through bravery, magic, and love, two worlds that used to be apart are knitted together, just like the fate of our characters.

    Alexa, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about Rory & Ink.

    Rory & Ink by Alexa Piper

    Genre MM post-apocalyptic monster romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Rory has never been the kind of person who enjoys fights or violence, but when a member of his newfound family is kidnapped, he will not just stand by and do nothing. No, Rory will use his still new and not entirely welcome magic to help. And when that is done, Rory will once more put all his efforts into becoming a trophy mate to his handsome blue husband, and he will worship said husband from the tips of his horns to his paw feet.

    Inkiri has never been happier in his life. His human mate accepts him, and not just that, Rory loves him. And while Rory seemed afraid at first, he will stop at nothing to protect the people near and dear to him. All Inkiri can hope is that he will prove himself worthy for such an extraordinary mate.

    With his future life as trophy mate almost within reach, Rory might be forgetting something that he has to do, but that’s okay. There are people in his life now who will remind him of all the things that are important and of all the things that aren’t.

    Content warning: While this series is a comedy, this book alludes to physical and sexual abuse. It is not experienced on page, but it is a reality of a side character’s life.

    Interview with Rory

    Thank you for agreeing to interview with us! Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better, and perhaps read the book your author wrote about you.

    What bad habits do you struggle to overcome?

    Getting scared when I hear loud noises. That usually means there’s a monster out to get you, but I know that Ink is there to protect me now.

    What does a perfect world look like to you?

    I… This is difficult. On the one hand, of course I wish the Apocalypse had never happened. I wish that I’d never had a part in it, that everyone was still here. But on the other hand, I don’t think I’d ever have met Ink and my guys if it hadn’t happened.

    I mean, don’t get me wrong, I’m not happy about the Apocalypse, but meeting Ink and my guys, Kinnek, Charles, and Donna, that changed me. They are my people, you know. They are home.

    What color looks best on you?

    Oh, I like navy a lot, but everyone else seems to think green and terracotta are my colors.

    What’s your favorite food?

    I can tell you which food I hate: massa buns! Vinne is pretty good too, they make a great snack. As far as Earth foods are concerned, I always liked fries, which I haven’t had in ages. The Apocalypse made me less picky though, and really whatever Nokim makes I’ll eat.

    What’s your favorite drink?

    Hmm, I don’t think I have one favorite drink, but I would go get a Starbucks with my friends sometimes, you know. I always liked a drip coffee with honey and almond or hemp milk, but more than that, it’s just the people. I really miss them, and I miss going somewhere and there being people around.

    Read a Quirky Character Interview with Rory from Rory & Ink by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomance

    Is there a secret spot you like to retreat to? Where is it?

    Okay, this isn’t really a secret spot, but my buddy Vergis and I like hanging out on the roof sometimes. I wouldn’t say that Vergis is fun, not unless your sense of humor is very dark, but to be fair, what he says tends to be insightful. And direct. Vergis can be very direct.

    Who always makes you smile?

    Ink can usually do that, but I’m happy when I’m with everyone, when nothing happens, when the greatest problem we have is that we ran out of iced tea again. Days like that have me smiling from morning to evening.

    What’s the first thing you tend to notice about a person?

    These days, if their have horns and are bagu, in which case I’ll pay attention to whether they have anything that makes them look like Koa Esher about them. If they are humans I don’t know, I’d be careful as well.

    How do you wish others saw you?

    I used to wish I would be cast in a leading role, but looking back, I didn’t want to be an actor for the fame, just for the acting. Because what I really want is for people to look at me and just see me as Ink’s trophy mate. I don’t want them to think of me as some powerful mage or whatnot, and I’m always scared they’ll hate me for attracting trouble. I just want to be unimportant enough for people to politely acknowledge and then ignore me.

    Where to buy Rory & Ink

    Publisher https://www.changelingpress.com/rory-ink-monster-apocalypse-4-b-3455?genre_id=21
    Universal Buy Link https://books2read.com/u/mZEy7D
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BPRGZK45
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rory-ink-alexa-piper/1142829192
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6445070555
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/rory-ink

    Alexa Piper Social Media

    Alexa Piper writes steamy romance that ranges from light to dark, from straight to queer. She’s also a coffee addict. Alexa loves writing stories that make her readers laugh and fall in love with the characters in them.
    Website https://alexapiper.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/ProwlingPiper
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/255026848996374
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/piperthewriter/
    TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@alexapiperwriter
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14017396.Alexa_Piper
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/alexa-piper
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Alexa-Piper/e/B010EFQIRY
    Get to know Alexa Piper better by signing up for an email newsletter https://alexapiper.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ff9c4810ddb3c68da564c6a92&id=3585441fba

  • Character Insider,  Gay or MM,  Urban Fantasy

    Get the inside scoop on the dark hero from A Devilish Saturnalia by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomance

    Lionel and his lover are spending Midwinter in Scotland, and what should be a few quiet days with their found family for the Devil and his necromancer turns into a wild goose chase (literally) and a murder mystery (not literally) in A Devilish Saturnalia, a fluffy novella set right after the events in The Devil’s Saturnalia.

    Alexa, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about A Devilish Saturnalia.

    A Devilish Saturnalia by Alexa Piper

    Get the inside scoop on the dark hero from A Devilish Saturnalia by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomanceGenre MM urban fantasy romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Lionel and Lucifer are spending the holidays in Scotland. They are set to enjoy a quiet Midwinter, and Lionel is looking forward to spending this time with his found family, although having a family is still new for him.

    Lucifer’s goals for this holiday season are simple: convince his necromancer to willingly stay in bed with Lucifer, but of course, that is just a fantasy. Lucifer knows it’s not what his necromancer needs, and the cruel side of love is that even the Devil has to put his lover first.

    Snowed in, will these two and those who love them find something to do to pass the longest night of the year? In this sweet and cozy read, you will find out.

    This books is not a standalone. The events in A Devilish Saturnalia take place right after The Devil’s Saturnalia.

    Warning: This m/m romance contains sexual content only suitable for mature audiences.

    Insider Information about Lucifer

    Welcome! We’d like to know more about you. Please add info you’re comfortable sharing.

    Nickname: The most handsome of them all, Best Boyfriend Ever, The Devil with the best hair.

    Age: Compared to Tiamat, I’m a spring chicken.

    Gender: I like all genders equally.

    Birthplace: Puny human minds do not understand the geography of the otherrealms.

    Profession: Necromancer Minder, Ph.D.

    Please provide a physical description of yourself.

    Sexy, but monogamous. And like we all know, monogamy makes you hotter, which explains why my boyfriend is so obsessed with me.

    What are your pronouns?

    I’ll take all of them, please, extra rainbow sprinkles.

    How well does your name fit your personality?

    You see, I’ve been going by Lucy ever since I first read the literary gem that is Dracula. Lucy Westenra was so far ahead of her time! She had the opportunity to embark upon a reverse harem journey never before seen in literature, but she gave it all up in order to maintain her beauty and discerning charm for all the rest of time, along with some badass butt-kicking abilities.

    I am the Devil. I have the best hair, and my magic is perfect. Before I fully bloomed–before I became monogamous, that is–I dabbled in pleasing multiple people at the same time. I certainly have the looks. You should see how my Nelly stares at me when I bring out my wings!

    Do you believe in love at first sight?

    Oh, no. That’s a silly notion. I mean, sure, it happened to me, but that was an exception. Most people have to buy their lover flowers and take them on dates to amausement parks and all of that, but Nelly and I never needed anything as base. We were made for one another.

    But no. Love at first sight is an illusion.

    Do you enjoy dressing up or prefer to dress casually?

    I enjoy dressing for the occasion. It doesn’t really matter what I wear or if I wear any clothes at all. I’ll always look good.

    If a place where you shop installed benches in various sections, where would you sit?

    I do not really do any shopping. I have Trony for that. But for the new year, I want to convince Nelly to come shopping with me. In that event, I want a bench right in front of the changing room for the anticipation. He’ll probably be too shy to come out when he’s trying on panties for me, but what is magic for if not to make a changing room curtain see-through?

    Mhh. They already do have benches inside the changing rooms, don’t they? I’ll probably move there after I watched my necromancer squirm for a little bit. To help him out of the panties.

    Favorites:
    Smell: Nelly
    Color: Golden
    Taste: Nelly
    Sound: Nelly makes this sound after he’s been tied up for a long while. It’s a bit hoarse, but also sweet. And then, once I allow him his release, he makes those soft little huffs–ah. No one but me will ever hear those sounds.
    Texture: If I tell you, you’ll have to censor it. Rhymes with Nelly’s sock.

    Can you:

    Swim? Of course I can swim. I can’t drown, so the skill is a bit superfluous, but it’s fun.

    Use chopsticks? Do you take me for a Philistine? Of course I know to use chopsticks.

    Roller skate? This sounds undignified, but I can probably make it look good.

    Ski? I can, but I prefer having champaign in the hot tub to going up and down some mountain.

    Fly a plane? That’s a waste of time. I have wings.

    Ride a horse? Yes. I’ve even read up on how to tame wild horses.

    What is your favorite book?

    Other than the obvious, there’s that one with the virgin who works in a diner. The virgin always takes the night shift, and then he meets this darkly handsome assassin who initiates the virgin into the art of carnal pleasure. That reminded me so much of my Nelly, who had only been deflowered in the most technical sense when I met him. Mhh. White lace means innocence, doesn’t it? I’m very much looking forward to taking him shopping.

    Who is the one person who can convince you to do something you know you shouldn’t?

    Convince me? If we are talking about convincing, Trony or the dragon mother. If this is about actually getting me to do things… that’s unfortunately Nelly. For instance, I know I shouldn’t let Marc Deacon breathe another breath, but here I am being a good Devil and not shoving Marc Deacon into a bottomless hole, because I am sure Nelly would ask me about it. Interrogate me, even. And I can only distract my necromancer so much when he gets into one of his stubborn moods, you know.

    Where to buy A Devilish Saturnalia

    Universal Buy Link https://books2read.com/ADevilishSaturnalia
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BN4V3PZ2
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/2940165969867
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/x/id6444665017
    Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/Search?Query=9780463121153
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1184296

    Alexa Piper Social Media

    Alexa Piper writes steamy romance that ranges from light to dark, from straight to queer. She’s also a coffee addict. Alexa loves writing stories that make her readers laugh and fall in love with the characters in them.
    Website https://alexapiper.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/ProwlingPiper
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/255026848996374
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/piperthewriter/
    TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@alexapiperwriter
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14017396.Alexa_Piper
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/alexa-piper
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Alexa-Piper/e/B010EFQIRY
    Get to know Alexa Piper better by signing up for an email newsletter https://alexapiper.us4.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ff9c4810ddb3c68da564c6a92&id=3585441fba

     

  • Gay or MM,  Stressing the Hero

    Stressing Anthony from Anthony: Single Dads of Gaynor Beach by Gabbi Grey @gabbigrey #RLFblog #MMRomance

     

    What happens when a social worker delivers not one, but two bundles of joy to the unsuspecting sperm donor? Scott Wexler, discovering he has twin nine-month-old babies, needs all the help he can get.

    Anthony Rodrigues, Gaynor Beach’s social worker, can’t help but step in to assist in this heartwarming single dad gay romance.

    Let’s meet Anthony from Anthony, a gay romance, by Gabbi Grey. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here!

    Please tell us about your latest book.

    Anthony by Gabbi Grey

    Genre gay romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): steamy

    Anthony

    During my seven years as a social worker in Gaynor Beach, California, delivering orphaned twins to their unsuspecting father is the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced. These babies lost their mother and they need a loving parent, but is adorable Scott Wexler up to that challenge? Transferring custody is one thing—walking away is something entirely different, especially with the stress of Christmas bearing down on Scott too.

    Scott

    After escaping a miserable childhood, I’ve made a fresh start in California. I’m in charge at the Gaynor Beach Public Library, I love helping people, and I’m feeling like an actual functional human being. Then social worker Anthony Rodrigues shows up on my doorstep with twins I fathered through a sperm donation, and suddenly I’m responsible for two tiny lives. Accepting help from the gorgeous social worker is a no brainer—admitting I want him to stay is going to take a lot more courage.

    This 74k word gay romance is a slow burn, mid-angst, instalove with a geeky librarian, a by-the-book social worker, adorable twin-toddler terrors, and a beleaguered cat named Crumpy.

    Stressing Anthony

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 30
    Gender: Male
    Birthplace: Napa Valley, CA
    Profession: Social Worker
    Ethnicity: Hispanic

    What does your hero look like?

    Anthony’s tall, dark and handsome. These days he’s sporting a beard in an attempt to look more mature. His hair’s a little long and he likes that. Especially when his partner tugs on it while they’re making love.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Scott Wexler – librarian in Gaynor Beach – and new single dad. Scott’s a ginger with stunning green eyes and a bit of a geeky side. He’s also a little kinky, much to Anthony’s surprise.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    Anthony’s very dedicated to his work – if he’s going to show up at a party, it’ll be for work – mostly to impress his boss.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    He’s relaxed and vigilant at the same time. He wants to make a good impression on those around him – image is everything.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He’ll mingle with his co-workers and try to engage his boss in a conversation.

    f he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He’ll have a beer, if alcohol is being served.

    How much drink is his usual?

    One beer is his absolute limit. He’s dealt with an addict in his past and he’ll never let himself lost control.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He’ll likely need a break away from the stress of having to make a good impression. He puts up a good façade, but it’s a little tiring.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    If he were at a party with some other gay men, he’d latch on to a friend and stay with them. He’s very loyal.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He’s the intervener – he’ll do everything in his power to stop the fight before it escalates. And if he has to pick sides, he’ll pick the weaker person. He always stands up for the little guy.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He’d do the tossing – he has no patience for people who overindulge.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’ll know when to leave. Being around his co-workers might be awkward, but he can judge the perfect moment to make his exit.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He’ll remain calm. He knows racial profiling is a thing, and he’ll be worried. But he’ll do everything he’s told and hope things are sorted out later. He’s innocent. He’ll hold tight to that.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    He runs toward those in needs – even if it comes at his peril.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    How can I intervene? If there’s a weapon, he might stop to call the cops.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Jumps in. He knows he’s mortal, but he’s not going to stand by and watch someone get hurt. He’ll put his own life on the line if it means he can save someone else.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Keeps going. He’s found himself in over his head a few times and has always come out on top, so he’ll stick firm to the belief he can do it again. Even if he goes down in defeat, he’ll be able to cling to the fact he tried.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    Funny, this exact thing happens to him. He doesn’t want the confrontation, but he also understands it has to happen. In the end, though, he protects those in his life who he loves the most.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He’s faced this exact situation. He brings the twins to Scott – who’s a few years younger – and it’s soon clear that Scott’s not coping well. Anthony doesn’t hesitate – he steps in to offer a hand without being controlling. Oh, and he falls in love in the process.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    You’ve borne unbearable emotional grief and anguish. You lost everyone who meant something to you. You can endure this physical pain because there’s something better on the other side.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    A high school guidance counsellor brought him back from the abyss and helped him get into college. You’re stronger than you think will always be his mantra.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Tremendous personal losses have been his guiding principle – he ensures the helpless children in his community are cared for. The desire to keep doing that is enough to see him through even the darkest situations.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He was a bit of a jerk in my book, Hugh, another book in the Single Dads of Gaynor Beach series. Yet even as I wrote him back then, I knew he had reasons for being the way he was and I also knew – without a shadow of a doubt – that I had to write his redemptive arc. I hope readers will feel I’ve done that.

    Thank you, Kayelle, for letting me share a glimpse into Anthony. I really appreciate you letting me visit.

    Where to buy Anthony

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Anthony-Single-Dads-Gaynor-Beach-ebook/dp/B0BJQL39SZ
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/anthony-gabbi-grey/1142694635
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/ca/book/anthony/id6444502148
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/anthony-24
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1179503

    Gabbi Grey Social Media

    Gabbi lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black.

    Website https://gabbigrey.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/GabbiGrey
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGabbiGrey
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorgabbigrey/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15456297.Gabbi_Grey
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gabbi-grey
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Gabbi-Grey/e/B07SJVFX1M
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  • Bucket List,  Gay or MM

    Bucket list of Lionel Hawkes, from The Devil’s Saturnalia by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomance

    Bucket list of Lionel Hawkes, from The Devil's Saturnalia by Alexa Piper @ProwlingPiper #RLFblog #MMRomanceIn wintry Scotland, everyone’s favorite necromancer and police consultant, Lionel, finds a case to solve, except the investigation doesn’t go as planned. Meanwhile, Lucifer, the Devil, has plans to enjoy the holiday season with his necromantic boyfriend in Alexa Piper’s latest installment of the Hellbound series.

    Let’s meet Lionel from The Devil’s Saturnalia. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about The Devil’s Saturnalia.

    The Devil’s Saturnalia by Alexa Piper

    Genre MM Romance, MM urban fantasy romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    While in Scotland for Lionel’s magic training with Hades, a murder case compels the Devil and his necromancer to stick around a little longer. Lionel, who still cannot control his demigod magic properly, doesn’t mind a murder investigation, because that is something a necromantic police consultant like himself knows how to handle.

    Except, the investigation doesn’t go at all as Lionel thought it would. And when he decides he wants to open up to Lucifer, finally, that doesn’t go exactly as Lionel had feared either, but some surprises are good surprises, especially when Saturnalia is just around the corner.

    Lucifer is delighted. He has his boyfriend, who finally opens up, and his boyfriend is all his, at least through the holidays. That much attention is exactly what Lucifer loves, and the holiday season would be entirely perfect — if it weren’t for an old enemy who is out for vengeance.

    When someone dies, we say they “kicked the bucket.” Therefore, a list of things that a person wants to accomplish, places to go, situations to experience, and so on have become known as a “Bucket List.”

    Age: twenty-five.

    Gender: male

    Birthplace: Millsbury Central, at least that what it says on my birth certificate.

    Profession: necromantic police consultant

    Ethnicity: I have Greek heritage. Minoan, actually.

    Species (for scifi/fantasy characters): I do have immortal in my parentage, so let’s say half-human.

    Please provide a physical description of yourself.

    Uhm, I’m pretty average. Light brown eyes, reddish-brown hair. I like wearing black, and not just because I’m a necromancer. The color suits me.

    Please tell us a little about yourself.

    As I said, I’m a necromancer, which means I’m a rare type of magic user. I work as a police consultant. I have a boyfriend, who happens to be the Devil. It was his idea that I talk to you today. Interviews aren’t really my thing, you know.

    Who is the significant other in your life?

    Lucifer, the Devil.

    If you haven’t made a bucket list before, perhaps now would be a good time. Who knows? It might inspire another book. While you’re at it, how about telling us about some of your other favorite things? Here are the questions.

    What is your birth order?

    I… I’m not sure. I don’t think I have any siblings. I grew up in an orphanage, you know.

    Tell us about your favorite toy as a child.

    I remember there was an old doll I liked for a long time. I gave it away when this new kid came in. She was crying and crying, and so I gave her the doll. I guess it helped, because she never let it out of her sight and took it with her when she was adopted.

    Describe your favorite food and how it’s prepared.

    I really like whatever Metatron gets up to in the kitchen, but her strawberry tarts are to-die-for. I have no idea how she makes them, and I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s magic involved.

    Tell us about your best friend.

    I guess… I get along well with Christine Rice. She’s my supervisor at the police station, but I do consider her a friend.

    What are two places you would like to visit before you die, and why?

    I never thought about that. In terms of magical history, there are lots of interesting places in Europe that I’d like to see, but I don’t exactly have a list. But maybe I’d start with Prague. The Chymical Street there is supposed to be one of the first, and I’d like to see it. From what I know, some of the stores there have been run continuously for several hundred years.

    Where is a place you would never like to return, and why?

    I could name a few crime scenes. One was a basement, and I was there for a while. Not really very long. I’d be fine going back, you know, I just don’t want to.

    Who is someone you would like to meet, and why?

    I don’t follow celebrities, but with the Devil being my boyfriend, there are a few gods I’d like to meet. I’ve been hearing a lot of funny stories about Loki and his misadventures, so maybe him.

    Who is someone you would like to avoid, and why?

    I don’t like talking to the department shrink, Dr. Lesker, but he keeps finding me somehow, and I think my boyfriend and Dr. Lesker are plotting to make me go to therapy.

    If you could time travel to any date, what would it be, and what would you do there?

    Hmm. I know that one! I’m not sure how long ago that would have been, but I would just want to see that burning river in the underworld from which my Lucifer was born. I think that would be so cool. Oh, or better yet, I’d time travel to wherever I could sit down with Bram Stoker, and I’d ask him to sign a copy of Dracula for Lucy.

    Meet Alexa Piper

    Why did you choose this character for the interview today?

    In case you hadn’t noticed, around here, it’s the Devil who decides things. Lucy told Lionel it was his time to get interviewed.

    When writing the book, what did you discover about this character that surprised you?

    I didn’t know a lot about Lionel at first. Basically, his entire backstory, his parentage, all of that was a surprise.

    Why should readers who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a try?

    It turns into a really sweet love story, even if it doesn’t look like that from the start. Oh, and it’s pretty steamy.

    Is there anything you’d like to say to your readers?

    Lucy and Nelly will return!

    Where to buy The Devil’s Saturnalia

    Publisher https://www.changelingpress.com/the-devil-s-saturnalia-hellbound-6-b-3439
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BLP91LWK
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-devils-saturnalia-alexa-piper/1142632757
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/id6444258367
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/the-devil-s-saturnalia

    Alexa Piper Social Media

    Alexa Piper writes steamy romance that ranges from light to dark, from straight to queer. She’s also a coffee addict. Alexa loves writing stories that make her readers laugh and fall in love with the characters in them.
    Website: https://alexapiper.com/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/ProwlingPiper
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/255026848996374
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/piperthewriter/
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    Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14017396.Alexa_Piper
    BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/alexa-piper
    Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Alexa-Piper/e/B010EFQIRY
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