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Cia

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  1. Cia
    Are you a fan of Rob Colton? I know I am! This month we're featuring his 2nd installment of the immensely popular Timber Pack Chronicles. Enforcer features Jed's story, though we get to see more of the other characters we loved from the first book.
     




     

    Length: 58,419
     
    Description: Jed Stone suffers in silence, damaged and poisoned from his fight with the rogue wolf. But he puts on a smile and does his duty, making sure his Timber Pack mates are safe.
     
    Buzz Hinske belongs to a traditional lycan pack. Challenges and violence seem to be their way of life.
     
    When they come together at the annual Lycan Conclave, Jed is elated at finding his destined mate. Unfortunately, Buzz has already been promised to another...
     
    Reviews:
    sjohnjohnc says... I think I'm like quite a few of Rob Colton's fans here; we really do enjoy reading and rereading his stories. I've been rereading these last ten chapters in anticipation of chapter 11 and I have to say I'm incredibly impressed with the character development. Sometimes hero characters (the stronger and dare I say more hyper masculine characters) tend to be clones, reflections or rotations of strong characters we've been introduced to before. Which leads me to say how impressed I am with the difference between Colton is from Jed. Yes, Colton is the alpha of the little pack, but Jed is strong in his own right. I admire the shades of strong characters created by R. Colton; while Colton chases after Parker, I'm thinking back to the very romantic pebbles thrown at a window in Book 1, Jed is patient and waits. Yes, Jed admires Colton's ability to hold off for a year, but his own strength to let the Buzz make a choice with the possibility of Buzz choosing convention over fate, is uniquely him.
     
    I really must thank Rob Colton for such excellent distractions.
     
    belann says... Rob, you write the best sex/love scenes: not only hot but also very beautiful.A mixture of aggressiveness and tenderness.
    My heart almost broke when Jed told Buzz his shirt was all he had of him. Buzz had a difficult decision to make and I'm glad he chose Jed and he's giving up on his fears to give himself to his mate. Great chapter!
     
    Cannd says... That was a really beautiful chapter! There were a bunch of really special moments that you did a great job writing. I am so glad Parker and Colton are keeping Wylie. I worried for a moment there, that his father would be found. One of those moments was the emotion that Parker showed when he feared they'd take Wylie. It would have wrecked him. He loved the boy from the first time he picked him up. Do they know if Sandra was killed by the hunters? It was so funny when Wylie called Parker 'pup.' lol I have a feeling he is going to make a great Alpha wolf someday. It was nice to see Buzz officially become Timber pack and of course seeing the kids become pack and Wylie to call Colton Dad was so sweet.
     
    The fact that Wylie's name was the same as that boy's was bittersweet. While I get Buzz's happiness that the child would grow up loved no matter who and what he was is a nice thought. I just can't get the image of Christopher looking to Buzz for help right before they killed him. He looked to the man he had slept with and who was the only one of them who wasn't so hateful. I am surprised Buzz has dealt with that as well as he has. I would feel really guilty if I were him, b/c he was targeted to prove a point to Buzz. They may have found out anyhow, but this way it must have felt like he was partly responsible for his death, esp when he could do nothing to save him.
    I hope the story isn't over. I know that Derek won't let this go as easily as he pretended to. I think he is going to want to have the last say and going to want to kill his abomination of a brother and also show Colton up. I guess we'll see. If it was the end, then it was a great one. It was adorable that Wylie climbed up for a ride on colton. The pack is stronger and such a safe place. Though, I also hope we get to be there for the official mating of the guys.
     
    I am definitely excited though, and already looking forward to Zef's story that we'll all be begging for! lol no pressure or anything.
    I hope we get to be there for that mating bite. It was a hard earned moment for those two. I am wondering if Colton really did send the registry for their mating. I have a feeling he may have. He seems to have taken to being an Alpha amazingly well. They really have built a great pack in the year since they became one.
    I love how you continued to develop the characters and their personalities through this. Parker makes the cutest dad...so worried about him and colton really surprised me with how well he took to fatherhood. I hope Wylie can come to trust the others like he trusts his dads.
     
    Inky says... Fantastic!!! As usual you make me cry, laugh and do that really big sigh and smile. I had it all wrong in the last chapter, but no matter my late night reading and rambling, you always deliver a powerful punch. I mean that in a good way. Lol. I am sad that this story will end soon, but I am totally hoping that there is more to come. I still don't trust Derek..., I so want a story with Alpha Poundstone and Zef...., the Hunters have to be investigated..., Christopher's mother is dead..., was she murdered..., is his unknown dad dead as well..., and Christopher's behavior indicates that he was somewhere that he had to fight for everything to exist. I am just greedy for more of your work so I will keep hoping and pondering until I see you post a new installment of Timber Pack Chronicles. Rob, you turned me into a junkie with your ultra amazing writing.
     
    Carlos Hazday says... After trying my hand at penning a story, I have a new-found respect for authors that can create rich characters and surround them with action and suspense but still provide a satisfying ( read happy ) ending.
     
    You sir, have my admiration for doing so time and time again. Thank you for sharing your gift with us.
    C
     




     
     
     
     
     

    Remember to check back on Wednesday to see what excerpt Rob chose to share with readers!


     
     
     
     
     

    Want to show your support and enjoyment of Rob Colton's story? Download the banner above for your site signature!


  2. Cia
    I hope you caught Rob Colton's feature on Monday sharing his favorite reviews left by fans of Enforcer. There's also a banner you can add to your signature if you want to share your love for this story. Get it here! Today we're sharing an excerpt Rob chose.
     
    Rob says... It was hard picking one. It's the opening of Chapter 5, where Buzz meets Jed. I like it because it shows the power of their attraction, but then goes to show how messed up Buzz is, the way he was brought up, hiding his feelings vs Jed, who grew up in a more open, modern thinking home.
     

    Want to read more? Check out the rest of the story here!
  3. Cia

    Weekly Wrap Up! (May 8 To May 15)

    By Cia,


    Weekly Wrap Up
    Looks like you guys are stuck with getting the weekly update for me today! I'll try to hit everything, but it might not be the usual format, so bear with me. It's been a busy week with a return to our Premium feature on Wednesday and some extra prompts on Friday, so if you missed out on those, here's another chance to catch up on this week's blog features.
     
    Monday's feature was Timothy M's review of Red Running Shoes, written by Aditus. Timothy says... "Indeed, Red Running Shoes may take the prize as the tale which has sparked the most intense reactions so far." Wondering what he means by that? Check out the rest of his review!
     
    M.A. Church's The Harvest series was the focus of Wednesday's feature reminding members of the great content in our Premium section and what purchasing a subscription does for the site in return. There's also an excerpt you can check out here from Book One: Taken.
     
    Not sure if you want to write? Blocked on your usual stories? Just enjoy creating fun little flash fiction stories? Friday is definitely your day if you enjoy prompts. As a special bonus, in honor Friday the 13th, we have a special prompt #1 in addition to creative Prompts #498 and #499 as well as poetry prompt #20. Get your inspiration on by clicking here!
     
    Anthology Announcements:
     
    ***NOTE: All Deadlines are for submission to the Anthology Proof Team**
    2016 Summer Anthology: Wicked Games - Due May 26th, 2016 **Just 11 more days!!** 2016 Fall Anthology: Blindsided - Due August 26th, 2016 2016 Winter Anthology: The Forgotten - Due November 26th, 2016 All Pre-2016 Anthology Themes - Due December 14, 2016

     

    Premium Updates:
     
    Journey's End by M.A. Church; Book 2 of The Harvest *Premium*
     
    Signature Updates:
     
    The G.M.Os by Carl Holiday, Book 3 of Hercules III
     
    My Brother Daniel by Nephylim
     
    Leopards Leap by Graeme; Book 3 of The Lilydale Leopards
     
    Innocence & Carnality by Mann Ramblings
     
    From the Cup of the Worthless by Cynus
     
    Left Without Words by Comicality
     
    Black Widow by Mark Arbour; Book 16 of Chronicles Of An Academic Predator (CAP)
     
    The Secret Life Of Billy Chase 9 by Comicality; Book 9 of The Secret Life Of Billy Chase
     
    Third Shift by Cole Matthews
     
    Promising Updates:
     
    Lavender & Gold by Thorn Wilde
     
    Morningstar: The Malaise by Headstall
     
    Falling Apart by craftingmom
     
    Don't forget.... Read, Write, and REVIEW!!!
  4. Cia

    And The Winner Is...

    By Cia,

    Okay, so not really a surprise for those following the comments, but I'm already plotting things out for the longer story and figuring all the details out that weren't needed for a 1200 word short story but must be cemented to make the paranormal world come alive, so I hope everyone will enjoy it!


    Thank you to everyone for voting!


  5. Cia
    I'm not inspired lately, but I'm constantly asked about expanding older stories by readers, so I thought I'd give everyone a chance to weigh in on what I should write for my next Wednesday Briefers flash story now that No Flash is over. Tell me what you think between these options:
     
    1. Mine: A werekin tale wrought with darkness.
     
    2. Picking Up Strays: A post-apoc tale of mutation and corruption.
     
    3. First Contact: A sci-fi story about the loss of humanity.
     
    4. Blinding Light: ??? Sense deprivation of sight. This story could really go anywhere. What genre do you think it should be if you pick it?
  6. Cia
    May already! Have you been enjoying the CSR features and interviews so far this year? Or have you been slacking on your reading? Well don't worry, each month you have a new chance to enjoy a story by one of the great authors posting on GA. This month we're featuring CarringtonRJ's London and Love. This 45k contemporary story might be just up your alley!
     



    London and Love


    by CarringtonRJ


     

    Length: 45,592
     
    Description: Tony is apprehensive about being sent to London for a year. How will he manage there? He's an introvert by nature, and thoroughly queer. He goes because he has nothing better to do, not expecting to find love in a foreign town.
     
    A Reader Said: Thank you for a great end to a great beginning. The word that comes to mind is 'satisfying'. After Tony 's wobble in the last chapter, it's refreshing to see them working at being together. Whilst there is a sense of resolution, there's real energy and excitement about the future. ~ damejintymcginty
     


    This month's discussion day will take place on Monday, May 30th.


  7. Cia
    This month I featured Daddydavek's first story on the site, Dean Warner Intrigues. This story has been called absolutely wonderful and great by reviewers. What did you think? Make sure you share your thoughts about this story below, but first enjoy my interview with Daddydavek!
     



    Dean Warner Intrigues


    by Daddydavek


     

    Who do you like best, Jerry or Tom?
    Neither. Tom is an oxymoron in that he is portrayed as a somewhat lovable bully doomed to fail. Jerry is a diminutive smart alec that loves to turn the tables on the bully. It makes for great sight gags and the cartoons were well received and are classics.
    The cartoon figure I liked best was Snoopy.
     
    Have you ever gone out in public, realized your shirt is on backwards, and just don’t care?
    I must be incredibly anal, but no, never!
     
    If you were writing a book about your life, what would the title be?
    “A Work in Progress” or “Still Enjoying new experiences”
     
    Name one entity that you feel supported you in your writing endeavors outside of family members.
    The internet is the best research tool around if used carefully.
     
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    Getting the dialogue 'in character' and keeping it that way.
     
    Did something specific inspire you to write Dean Warner Intrigues?
    I read a lot and noted there were so many stories of young adults with a tortured past filled with hate and/or abuse. I wanted to write something that had more positive relationships.
     
    So, when I was thinking about writing it, I wanted a story that wasn't full of teenage angst. I knew the story had to have some tension as I didn't think I could write characters that were so engaging that characterization could carry the story. DWI was the result. While my computer history goes back to the early 1980's and a Commodore 64 which then graduated to Windows 3.0 and continued with Windows 95, 98, 98 second edition, Win2000, Windows Millennial, and Windows 7, I remain a user, not a programmer or a network tech guy. My point is that I'm sure a techie would shoot all kinds of holes in parts of my story.
     
    If you could give advice to yourself when you first started writing Dean Warner Intrigues, what would it be?
    Don't always over think it so much. Sometimes you just got to spin your yarn and see where it leads.
     
    Did the characters or the plot come to you first?
    The characters, all who are an amalgamation of my own invention based on my sixty plus years of reading everything from Aristotle (On memory and reminiscence) to Zelazny (The Chronicles of Amber).
     
    What was your favorite scene to write in this story?
    Being a rather dirty old man, I enjoyed writing the love scenes and hope I didn't go into too much detail, but it was a story of discovering love too. However, my favorite chapter is the epilogue where I wrapped up the story. It was short, but sweet.
     
    Can you share a little of your current work with us?
    I'm divided between doing a story about the red headed Sean from DWI and a look back story by Bill from Abel III's Awakening after he and Steve come into their powers.....
     
    Neither story thread has made it into a working outline that I like, so I'm letting them percolate while I continue to catch up on the many hundreds of books on my Kindle...
     


    Okay folks, now's the time to share your thoughts!!


  8. Cia
    Did you miss Monday's blog post featuring the ad and signature graphics for K.C.'s novel, Pour Me Another? Never fear, you can check it out here and download your copy to help share your love of his story. Today, K.C. has an excerpt he wanted to share with you!
     
    K.C. says... I think this glimpse shows the start of Asher and Michael's friendship. They are two guys from very different lives, but their friendship grows into much more. The nightlight, the city, friendship, betrayal, love and hate, this story has it all with a modern twist.
     

    Want to read more? Check out the rest of the story here!
  9. Cia
    This month we're featuring K.C.'s Pour Me Another. This story was the Reader's Choice Award winner for a Promising Author back in 2013. Why don't you give it a read and find out why it won? (Hint... a lot of people looooved it!)
     




     

    Length: 78,802
     
    Description: ***Winner of the 2013 Readers Choice Awards for the Best Story by a Promising Author *** The city is full of all kinds of people. Being a bartender, Asher Burkhart has seen them all. Atleast he thinks has until Michael Waters shows up.
     
    Reviews:
    Flamingo136 says... KC, I just "found" your story and read it without stopping; well I did have bathroom breaks but beyond that I was determined to absorb every word as quickly as I possily could.
    The story was very entertaining, characters compelling and I was blissfully snarled in this world hoping that everything would work out, knowing that it probably wouldn't.....maybe it will...hoping....hoping.....finally !!!!!
    I really enjoyed Pour Me Another from beginning to end...it must have been maddening to your readers to follow in real time; I feel like I've cheated ...but I don't feel the least bit guilty.
    You have been added to my listed of authors to follow....what pressure for you....LOL
    Thanks for sharing; I'm going to read your other works now................Mike
     
    Shadowrunner says... Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful story with us. It was great! Ups, downs, tears and kisses. The best I've ever read. You're amazing!!! :D
     
    Aaron Alan Addams says... Another wonderful story! I read the entire thing in the last twenty four hours. Your talent of writing characters that make the reader, care for... No more than that. Fall in love with them is remarkable. Your storyline is believable, well thought out and funny. (I have my phone read stories to me when I'm busy doing things. I listen with earbuds. My coworkers think I'm listening to music. I do get looks when I burst out with a laugh every now and then.) As I read the epilogue, I felt sad. It felt as if dear friends were moving away and I was never going see them again. Congratulations on a job well done. I only have one suggestion. Sequel?
     
    Slytherin says... Thank you for sharing this wonderful story, K.C ! It's been quite a journey following these two wonderful characters. l love this story
     




     
     
     
     
     

    Remember to check back on Wednesday to see what excerpt K.C. chose to share with readers!


     
     
     
     
     

    Want to show your support and enjoyment of K.C.'s story? Download the banner above for your site signature!


  10. Cia
    April already! Spring is coming to some parts of the northern hemisphere (my local forecast has a record-breaking 85!) but other parts are still snowing. The southern hemisphere is moving into fall and equally capricious territory... so you know what you could do? Stay inside and beat the heat OR cold by reading this month's CSR.
     



    Dean Warner Intrigues


    by Daddydavek


     

    Length: 62,293
     
    Description: A bullet crashes into Dean's room and the intrigue starts.
     
    A Reader Said: From start to finish and everything in between, what an absolutely wonderful story
    The epilogue was short and sweet with a nice wrap up on a positive note. ~ Reader 1810
     
     
     


    Remember, this month's CSR Discussion day will be Monday, April 25th!


  11. Cia
    Did you have a chance to read Renee's three chosen short stories for this month's CSR? No? Well why not? Go, read now! You can do it, but make sure you come back here and leave a thought or two on what you read or Renee's writing in general. First, though, we have an interview to share with our very own site Blog Host, Anthology Coordinator, and Signature Author!
     



    Friends First Line of Sight More Than A Pact

     

    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?
    I usually at least toss the blankets up over it, because my dogs and cats like to jump on the bed, and if I don’t, then I end up with lots of dog hair and dirt between the sheets. It drives me nuts and makes me itch, so I try to prevent it if I can.
     
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    So many choices that it’s hard to choose just one. Based on my love of the outdoors and hunting, I’d have to say maybe something like a wolf or a bear. Natural hunters who get to spend their entire lives enjoying the mountains. (Though sometimes I think it would be cool to be a shark, I mean, all the things you’d see!!!)
     
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    I’m actually very shy and really hate confrontation. I’m the type of person that goes to a bbq (or other gathering) and keep to the people I know. It takes time, but if I’m around the same people a few times, then I’ll start to get to know them, but it’s really hard for me to do. And, while I will stand up for my family, there’s very little that I’ll actually confront someone on. I prefer to try and keep the peace.
     
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    That kind of depends. Outside of spending time with my husband, it kind of depends on the season. During the fall, I’m usually hunting on the mountain with my family. During the summer, I love to go camping and fishing. And while I haven’t been doing it as much, throughout the year I also enjoy sewing and designing quilts.
     
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    Coming up with names. Whether it’s the name of a character or a title for a story, it’s always a struggle because I want to find just the right one. Outside of that, I think lately my most challenging thing is focusing enough to actually write. I’ve very easily distracted, so sometimes that makes it hard to actually just sit down and write.
     
    What’s the first thing you do when you start to write a story?
    It depends. It’s rare that I plot out a story from start to finish. For me, I basically just sit down and start writing. I rarely even have the entire cast of characters in mind when I start something new. I basically have an idea of where the story starts and where I want it to go. Now, if it’s a sequel, the first thing I do is go back and skim through the first story, because I want to make sure I don’t have any annoying little continuity issues.
     
    Are any of these stories based on a personal experience?
    None of these ones, but I do have a couple stories on here that are. I think my most personal story on here is “Take a Ride”, which is based on when I had a dangerous drop in blood sugar and scared the crap out of my hubby.
     
    Is there a particular character or theme in these stories who you most identify with, and how so?
    Not really. I guess if I absolutely HAD to choose, I’d say maybe Keith from Friends First, but only because we’ve both been cheated on and found out through friends.
     
    Can you sum up each of these short stories in one sentence?
    Eek, that’s a difficult one, but I’ll try.
     
    Friends First: Keith’s life is falling apart around him, thanks to his cheating bastard of a boyfriend, but things start to look up when his best friend reveals some truths that he’s been hiding.
     
    Line of Sight: Brad was devastated when his boyfriend walked out on him, but, thanks to his six year old son and his son’s teacher, he finally starts realizing that the future he envisioned is within his grasp.
     
    More Than a Pact: Paul and Mac made a pact during college about when they both turned 35, but Paul had forgotten about it until Mac shows up on his doorstep on his 35th birthday, ready to make the pact into reality.
     
    Can you share a little of your current work with us?
    I have a lot of projects in the works, but the one that has most of my focus is Studly Ranch Hands. It used to be called Rough Stock Wranglers (love that title!) but thanks to some major plot changes, the title no longer works, so AJ came up with the working title of Studly Ranch Hands.
     
    Here’s an excerpt from close to the beginning:
     
     
     
  12. Cia

    Epitome

    By Cia,

    I don't search for a lot of inspiration and motivation in my day to day life as I write. I just try to do the best job I can to tell a story that will make others feel what the characters and story have to say. As I was taking a break to enjoy a snack before striving to finally finish my latest contemporary novella, I was struck by the perfect quote to what I want this story, and all my writing, to embody. This is the epitome of what I'm trying to do... and it was right there on the lid of my yogurt.
     




  13. Cia
    This month we're featuring a story I happen to personally enjoy very much: Damphir by Nephylim. There are a lot of twists and turns, and a ton of really interested characters to meet along with the main character, Glory.
     




     

    Length: 61,144
     
    Story Description: A werewolf called Rover, a cat who can fly (among other things) a confused vampire, a spiteful faery and a testy human all confined in the same house and trying to learn to live together. A strange mix and a strange story.
     
    Story Reviews:
     
    CW Prince says... I get so wrapped up in your stories that when I get to the final chapter I almost want to stop reading so the story never ends. This story was no exception. A wonderful story and one I am sure to revist again soon. You never cease to amaze me with your talent and ability to wrap me into the story and take me into the very folded fabric of each and every character. Thank-you!
     
    Seraph74 says... Awww, what a beautiful ending to a beautiful story!!!
     
    I'll admit that I'm one of few gay men who don't actually appreciate sex scenes within a well-written story; it's a bit like a musical can be - the storyline stops while everyone sings (fucks), and then resumes once the music is over. But this chapter... wow. Beautiful music all it's own, and I didn't skip over one bit of it like I normally do. This chapter alone puts you into a league of your own, Nephy; well done!!
     
    And while I should be satisfied that I have just read a fabulous story that I will enjoy reading again (especially now that I know it has a happy ending; I am a sucker for happy endings), I must admit I am gloriously (no pun intended) happy that there will be a sequel to enjoy.
     
    Keep up the great work, Nephy... 'tis truly a treasure to behold!!!
     
    Michael9344 says... I think what interested so much in this story is how fascinating Glory is. So fascinating that each and every thing about him is intriguing; including his future i have no idea where Glory and Sar are headed, but I'm sure as hell going for the ride;).
    Did I mention how good a story teller you are?
     
    Kitt says... It may seem odd to add my review such a long time after you published the last chapter, but i have just recently found the sight and am now working my way through.
     
    I love your quirky characters and the crazy situations they find themselves in. I find myself reading "just 5 more minutes" till i am late leaving for work or up till the wee hours,
     
    So, will we see our little cat getting into more trouble in the future?
     
    Thanks for sharing your work.
     
    Comicfan says... I wonder if I am the only one who caught your last comment. But can it last? Nephy, that is just cruel. Glory is remembering far more than ever before. In the beginning there was just his name and the dim memory of blanket. Now he had a mother who died when he was ripped from her arms and at ten someone he loved who died to protect him. It appears that Glory is gathering glory in the rest the world. I wonder if that is what brought such a change to Pixie. Still want to see/hear more of what happens to Valentine. The sucker deserves the worst. Till your final chapter, I simply sit and wait.
     


    Remember to check back on Wednesday to see what excerpt Nephylim chose to share with readers!


     
     
     

    Want to show your support and enjoyment of Nephylim's story? Download the banner below for your site signature!


     
     
     




  14. Cia
    Did you miss Monday's blog where we announced Nephylim's Damphir is this month's Signature Author feature? You can still check it out here and see what her reviewers had to say about the story! Don't forget to download your copy of the signature graphic if you want to support Nephy and promote her story. If the reviews weren't enough to tempt you to read Damphir, Nephy has picked an excerpt to share with readers:
     
    Check out the very dramatic beginning to Nephylim's story in this excerpt she picked to share:
     
     

    Want to read more? Check out the rest of the story here!
  15. Cia
    Who's enjoying March? Temperatures are warming for the northern hemisphere and cooling for the southern, with a lot of variations depending on where you live. Some people still have heat waves, some still have snow, but change is coming to everyone. This month we're changing it up again by not having just one story featured, but three!
     
    Friends First
     
    Length: 5,712
     
    Description: Keith thought things were going great, unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) for him, things aren't always as they appear.
     
    A Reader Said: Terrific story Renee! ~ Lisa
     
    Line of Sight
     
    Length: 14,537
     
    Description: When Dave walks away from Brad, Brad is devastated but is forced to hold things together for his six year old son. He's not looking for someone new, but that doesn't stop him from noticing that his son's teacher is quite the flirt, but Tony is still Jake's teacher and nothing can come of it. Or can it?
     
    A Reader Said: I thoroughly enjoyed this story. ~ Valkyrie
     
    More Than A Pact
     
    Length: 3,077
     
    Description: Thirty-five years old and still alone, Paul's surprised to hear from his college buddy Mac. Sure, they've kept in touch through the years, but something is different this time. What makes this birthday so much more special to Mac?
     
    A Reader Said: As you can guess, I loved it! ~ Cole Matthews
     
    The CSR Discussion Day will be on Monday, March 28th!
  16. Cia

    C S R Discussion Day: The Holly And The Ivy By Aditus

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Well it's the once in a four year event, Leap Day! For this special day, we have a special story a lot of readers on GA really like! Today we're featuring Aditus' story, The Holly and the Ivy. I hope you enjoyed reading it this month, and you're ready to share your thoughts and questions with Aditus. First, though, I'll share the interview questions I asked him.
     
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    I’d like to be a large dog: cuddly, empathic, protective, and a great companion. But I asked around and it’s obvious I am a cat and not even a house cat.
     
    What's your favorite room in your house? Do you plot or write there?
    My favorite place isn’t really a room; it’s the roof terrace over my bedroom. I go there to read, listen to music, and yes, sometimes to plot too, but I write at my desk or at the kitchen table.
     
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    Haha. Some things come to mind… I hate pairing up my socks, that’s why I stuff them all into a drawer and just grab two of similar color in the morning. I do have emergency pairs though, just in case I have to make the wrong impression. Yep, I meant to write that.
     
    What brought you to Gayauthors?
    Who, actually. My very dear friend Lisa. I met her at another site. She helped me with the first story I published in English. We talked, became friends and eventually she told me about GA. I lurked around for a while, read your (Cia’s) Carthera stories and Andrew Q. Gordon’s Second Shot, and stayed.
     
    Is there a literary character (in the whole universe of fiction) that you’ve read who you really identified with?
    When I read a story/book and I’m really into it, I always identify with one of the characters, which makes me live through all their pain and joy, and I can become very emotional for the rest of the day–or week. So no, there is no single character I identify with, but I always loved Samwise Gamgee.
     
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging when writing?
    Yes. First, finding the time to write. I prefer writing in the morning and editing in the evening, which doesn’t always fit into my schedule. Second, not to bore my readers with too many details. I have pictures in my head when I write and tend to describe what I see up to the last crumble on the table. In the past, Zombie would always comment: ‘Do we really need to know this?’, or something along those lines. Oh yes, and all my commas… I think I make Lisa cry sometimes.
     
    Is there any quote or saying about writing that resonates with you?
    “I write because I must.”
    There are some authors who have said that; Somerset Maugham is one of them.
     
    When you wrote The Holly and the Ivy, did you plot the story first or just write it?
    I wanted to write a holiday story but not a sappy one, as I already did that the previous year. The only idea I had was about a vampire who was waiting for his human mate to grow up. He was only allowed to see him once a year, at Christmas mass. While browsing Christmas songs, old Christmas songs to avoid copyright issues, I found ‘The Holly and the Ivy’. Something about the title intrigued me. From then on, I just started to write, which is my usual MO. I did a lot of research while the story was underway: the meaning of names, languages, (as I suddenly needed to invent a completely new species), plants and their meanings, Christmas songs, torture techniques… Research always helps me to plot; I look for one thing and suddenly I am on a different topic entirely. Not the most efficient way to write, I know.
     
    How did you decide on the chapter titles? Was it before or after you wrote the chapters?
    I always decide on chapter titles after I write the chapter. It has to be an intriguing title that doesn’t reveal too much. It takes me hours sometimes, and I always ask myself ‘Why am I doing this again. Next time I just use numbers….’
     
    Did the decision to name your main character Noel come before or after deciding on his birth date?
    I can’t really say. It feels as if it happened at the same time.
     
    Your story has strong paranormal vibes with the mating and power themes, yet you made the non-humans aliens. Is this a set up for a later off-world theme for the series, or was it just the way you decide to create beings who were “other”?
    I love mixing genres. That being said, this happens when I plot while I’m already writing a story. Maybe I can explain my thought process with an example: ‘Lonely vampire plus holiday story, but not a ‘normal’ vampire. Maybe a space vampire? What would he do on Earth? Maybe he was here this whole time; maybe he lives here. But not alone. He could be part of species living with us. But why would they do that?’ And so on and so on.
     
    In the end, I was very pleased with my beings who were ‘other’, and I might elaborate some more about them in the next book.
     
    When can readers expect the next story in The King’s Mate series?
    I had planned to start writing Caesura this month (February), but then I had an idea for the Valentine’s Day and the anthology stories, so I’ll most likely start in March and post the first chapters in April.
     
    Well, now you know more about Aditus, so it's time to share your story thoughts!
  17. Cia

    C S R Discussion: The Life Of Seeon By Comicfan

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Can you believe the first month of 2016 is almost over already? Well, it is! This month’s feature was a story by our prompt guru, Comicfan. The Life of Seeon is a fantasy tale DrPaladin called “very imaginative”. Did you read it? Share your thoughts with our other readers or feel free to ask Wayne your questions about his writing and this story.
     


    The Life of Seeon


    By Comicfan


     

    Think back, way back. Can you remember what brought you to GA?
    Honestly, I was looking for something to read and my computer brought up a story by Lugh. So love me or hate me, I’m here because I joined to comment on story of Lugh’s.
     
    What was the last story or book you read/are reading?
    I read constantly. Right now I’m in the middle of Dead Heat by Patricia Briggs. This part of a series that was suggested to me by a friend. I’m always looking for something different to read. We pass books back and forth; it allows me to find some great stories I might otherwise never have learned about.
     
    What advice would you give newer authors, now that you’ve been at it a few years?
    There are three things I would suggest to anyone who wants to write. First, read. Reading helps you to increase your vocabulary, introduces you to new ideas, and allows you to see new ways to present things. Second, listen. I know it sounds easy, but it isn’t. Listen to what people say and how they say it. Sometimes, by listening you learn what people won’t say. This skill helps you in life and when you begin including dialogue. Third, write. Take a few minutes everyday to write. Do a character sketch, write dialogue, or just a flash fiction piece. You can’t improve or expand if you don’t have something you created. Editing comes later, but for now, write.
     
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    My favorite things to do besides write are cooking and keeping in touch with my friends and family. So I’m often cooking something up in my kitchen—soup, a main meal, or some sort of dessert. Otherwise, because I often have insomnia, I write out postcards to stay in touch with people. I am constantly trying to find something new that has something I enjoy on it. I’ve sent postcards with Harry Potter, Alice in Wonderland, Tom and Jerry, the Flintstones, dragons, and even unicorns on them.
     
    How do you come up with names for characters? Mashing syllables? Name generator? Baby websites?
    It depends on the story. Usually, my characters are named after people I know. Although I will go looking for names occasionally that emphasize what I am looking for. Seeon came about because of a TV show, where this woman was breaking down her name and exaggerating it, altering how it was pronounced. Sean became Sea-n which became See-on or Seeon.
     
    Are you a plotter or a pantser?
    I wish I could say I was completely a plotter, because it would make my life so much easier. I start with a character sheet. Who are they, friends, family, and what sort of problems? For a short story I plot it out. However, stories have a tendency to grow and I find I follow where the character wants to take me.
     
    Is there any subject you just won’t write about?
    Abusing a child is an absolute no in a story.
     
    The Life of Seeon is a fantasy story. Is there a specific fantasy element in the story you must enjoyed coming up with/using?
    The technology used in Seeon is fun. The scanners Oma uses, the walls coming to life with flowers, and the way both cultures use the technology and sciences they have. The Waza family sees it as a tool for all, while the Toleran Empire sees it as power.
     
    What’s your favorite part of the story?
    Seeon’s growth. You watch as his life is constantly ripped apart; he should be angry and mad. Instead, he greets with world resigned to make the best of whatever comes his way. He expects nothing, but you can’t help but be happy for any piece of goodness that comes his way.
     
    You recently finished The Life of Seeon. Is it complete or is there a sequel in the future?
    The Life of Seeon is complete. I don’t know if I will pick up Seeon and Mika to continue the story as I originally planned. My life hasn’t allowed me the time I wanted to finish the projects I started, so until I can, I don’t want to make promises I can’t keep.
  18. Cia
    For February's Signature Feature, we're bringing you one of the earliest GA authors who has represented our Signature group for a very long time. Have you read any of his short stories or novels on the site? He has a ton! If not, why not start with this month's feature, Butterflies Fly Free.
     




     

    Length: 83,133
     
    Description: Leo meets Colt as he’s leaving a gay bookstore. Colt is on his own and looks young, but there is an instant connection them. Leo wants to help, so will a bond form between them or is Leo just being used as a patsy?
     
    Story Reviews:
     
    Jaro_423 says... A light read and very pleasant too. Colt was a delight and so suited his shortened name as also did Leo. You conveyed Leo so well as an older rather stuffy almost pedantic type, ideally suited to guide the young Colt. I had difficulty remembering that Leo was still in his early twenties at the beginning of the story because he often appeared so much older which was as you obviously intended. They were a good foil for each other. Probably an unlikely match but many reasons why they should have fallen in love and stayed together. Nicely romantic! Thank you. You also conveyed Leo's difficulties in guiding Colt thru this time of his growing up and the dilemmas he faced and overcame with such wisdom. I liked the fact too that you portrayed one gay man as an ideal parent whereas the conventional couples each failed in their different ways.
     
    Daithi says... Very enjoyable story. Even though at times it probably hurt Leo I'm glad he had the wisdom to let Colt sediment and fly on his own. The last chapter proved that his wisdom and love of Colt. Enabled both of them to have a life filled with love and friendship, not only with each other but with Bert and Jason as well. Your butterfly analogy fit exceedingly well. The failed relationship with Colt and his parents showed what could happen by a too tight, paranoid treatment, whereas Leo relationship which enabled Colt to grow with freedom allowed him to expand and experiment. As a result Colt's parents lost out on a relationship with a loving son but Leo gained a beautiful lover and partner for life. Thank you for a very enjoyable story.
     
    Rishabhpar says... awesome story buddy. I loved the multiple twists in the story like where jason and colt were caught in the rather compromising state and the how leo handles it maturely and literally allows colt to spread his wings. But Colt succumbs to his love and realises his mistake. And when Colt saves Albert.
     
    You know if Colt hadn't tried a little out of the shell with Jason the story would have become very unrealistic. but that part gave a diff flavour to it and brought out the love which some of us die for.
     


    Remember to check back on Wednesday to see what excerpt Bill chose to share with readers!


     
     
     

    Want to show your support and enjoyment of Bill's story? Download the banner below for your site signature!





  19. Cia
    February is a month for romance! Many people, even if they aren't part of a couple, really associate this month above all with love and devotion--or overpriced chocolate treats and sappy cards. I wanted to keep with the romance theme, but I didn't want to take readers through a run of the mill romance, not at all. That's why this month, we're featuring an alternate earth tale with aliens and vampires. Enjoy!!
     



    The Holly and the Ivy


    by Aditus


     

    Length: 45,321
     
    Description: My grandmother made me talk to Diarmad Guerin every year after Christmas Mass since I was three. The letter he gave me a few weeks before my eighteenth birthday changed my whole world.
     
    A Reader Said: Such a great chapter! I am sad to see the end of this story, but I know there is more to come. ~ Litlover
     
    This month's Discussion day will take place on Monday, February 29th, so make sure you're ready!
  20. Cia

    Weekly Wrap Up!

    By Cia,


    Weekly Wrap Up
    It's been busy this first week of February! There's a lot going on for readers and authors to enjoy. I'll remind you, just in case you missed something or put it on the back burner (there's so much to read this week!!)

    Monday we started off with the CSR (which stands for Can't Stop Reading, btw, since so many people don't know!) Book Club. This month Aditus story, "The Holly and the Ivy" is the feature. He'll be answering my hard-hitting questions and replying to reader comments on the last Monday of the month, February 29th. Don't miss it!

    Wednesday was our monthly Ask an Author feature organized by Dark. We heard from Bill W, Robert Rex, and Sasha Distan. Do you wonder who Bill's favorite Castaway character is? Or how Robert Rex makes up his men? Or if Sasha Distan is really one person? Next month Dark has questions answered by M.A. Church, Julie Hayes, and Carlos Hazday.

    Thursday was it! V-day... or at least the deadline for the Secret Admirer's Short Story contest! Renee took the time to load up all the stories sent in by the authors--who remain anonymous--and now it's time to vote for your favorite. You still have time to pick your favorite of the 13 stories and vote before the polls end on February 11th.

    Anthology Announcements:

    ***NOTE: All Deadlines are for submission to the Anthology Proof Team**
    2016 Spring Anthology: Crossing the Line - Due February 26th, 2016 2016 Summer Anthology: Wicked Games - Due May 26th, 2016 2016 Fall Anthology: Blindsided - Due August 26th, 2016 2016 Winter Anthology: The Forgotten - Due November 26th, 2016 All Pre-2016 Anthology Themes - Due December 14, 2016

    Premium Updates:
     
    The Degan Paradox
    by Rob Colton; Book 3 of Galactic Conspiracies *Premium*  

    Signature Updates:
     
    My Brother Daniel
    by Nephylim  
    Walker Road
    by Comicality  
    Remembering Tim
    by CarlHoliday  
    Grip
    by Topher_Lydon  
    The G. M. Os.
    by CarlHoliday  
    No Flash
    by Cia  
    Innocence & Carnality
    by Mann Ramblings  
    Sword of Kings: Tempered by Fate
    by Bill W; Book 3 of Sword of Kings  

    Classic Updates:
     

    Things We Lost
    by Dabeagle  

    Promising Updates:
     
    Headstall's Reflections
    by Headstall  
    ...And All Shall Fade To Black
    by Layla  
    Falling Apart
    by craftingmom  
    Holding Back
    by Thorn Wilde  
    Treading Water
    by Headstall  

    Don't forget.... Read, Write, and REVIEW!!!
  21. Cia
    For those who enjoyed my A Maze for Three anthology series, I released it as an eBook with about 12,000 more words in edited and extra scenes, like a new ending!

     




    Miah’s always had something to prove—to himself, his family, and all the people who thought he’d fail. It doesn’t matter that he has to do it all alone, he won’t give up on his dream. On the cusp of a new beginning that could mean the difference between success and failure, he decides to finally enjoy a night out at a city bar with his roommate before he leaves for the bleak interior forever. He never expected to catch the eye of two unusual men there, but are they even human?

    Sure, he knows aliens sought sanctuary from the Earth Unity Coalition, but he’s never met any before… that he knows of. After all, the aliens can take human form, so it’s impossible to know them on sight, but the mystery of their kind has always interested him. When they take matters into their own hands and decide to court him in their tradition, things go horribly wrong.

    Now Miah’s hurt, his dream is on the verge of disappearing forever, and the life he always saw for himself is no longer an option. They'll have to find a way through the wrong turns and dead ends to have any hope of a new path for the three of them.


     

    Purchase for just $2.99 at:




    All Romance eBooks



    Smashwords (25% off with code: HN89T)









  22. Cia
    This December we're featuring Don H's 600k plus story, Beloved, for our Signature week. This story originally brought me to GA, and it's still ongoing six years later. Are you a fan? If you are, make sure you check out Monday's feature showcasing the new Stories ad as well as a downloadable graphic you can place in your signature to spread the love.
     
    There are many great moments in this story, but back when I used to follow it, this was one of my favorite between the two main characters, Cam and Kevin. So much happens to both of them, but it's this moment in time where they started to be tested. Did you have a chance to get a copy of the signature graphic posted on Monday's blog, if you want to share your fan appreciation of Don's story?
     


    Beloved

     

    That's just a small taste of the ups and downs between Kevin and Cam as they face the challenges when life tells you that it's time to grow up. To read more, check out Don H's Beloved!
  23. Cia
    Midway through January, and it's time to feature a new ad designed for one of our Signature Authors! This month's author is Don H, and the feature is his still ongoing serial (now over 500k!) story, Beloved. For all of our fans of coming of age stories, this is one of the long-time epics available on GA.
     




     
     
     

    Length: 643,157
     
    Description: Cameron MacKenzie and Kevin Stolz had been best friends and almost brothers their entire life. When a series of bad things happens to their families, the boys find themselves getting closer than they ever considered before.
     
    Story Reviews: ​
     
    Mr. Curiosus says... Loved it cried and laughed so much I nearly had water coming from two orifices
     
    California Miss says... I just finished reading the story up to chapter 48 and I'm loving it!
     
    I read Working it Out a couple of years ago and was very excited to see that you had another story.
     
    Hope to see another update soon!
    Cheers!
     
    JohnJones2150 says... I have been enjoying this story from the begining. Thank you for keeping this story going.
     
    Cynaira says... Thank you for this wonderful story. I have been following it for quite awhile now. Cam's struggle with his recovery, the love in this family. The emotions you put into the story. Now, Father Mason's struggle. He has flown to the right home to work through his troubles. Will patiently wait for your next chapter as they are always worth the wait.
     


    ​If you want to support Don H and share your appreciation for his story, download and share the graphic below in your signature! I've included the story url if you want to make it clickable.






    http://www.gayauthor...y/don-h/beloved

  24. Cia

    C S R Feature: The Life Of Seeon By Comicfan

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    The start of 2016 is already here, as hard as that is to accept. Where does the time go? I just realized today that we’ve been doing the CSR Features for 3 years now! Is it still popular? Do you have any ideaas for tweaks from the usual feature? Let me know! In the meantime, this month we’re going to enjoy an oldie, but goodie, in Comicfan’s story, The Life of Seeon.
     



    The Life of Seeon


    By Comicfan


     
    Length: 28,566
     
    Description: Seeon Toleran is the fifth child of the ruling royal family. His life was one of study and devotion to his Gods. Then war came and the world Seeon knew ended. There were decisions that were made for him which drastically altered the direction of his life. Suddenly the world of the priesthood is gone as an option in Seeon's life. Instead he is made Ma' Nee. What will this mean to a youth who has known neither love nor choice? Will this end his world or open new vistas? Time will tell.
     
    A Reader Said: This is a very imaginative story that ends up highlighting the differences between two countries and their cultures. In a significant way the reader can draw parallels with real existing cultures and customs. ~ drpaladin
     
    This month’s Discussion day will take place on Monday, January 25th. Make sure you’re ready to take part!
  25. Cia

    December Signature Feature: Heart Of The Tree By Graeme

    By Cia,


    Signature Feature
    Welcome to the new Signature Feature where we feature one of our lovely Signature Authors with a site ad banner and signature graphic. This month's featured author is Graeme, and he chose to showcase his story, Heart of the Tree. Check out his ad banner that will run for the next month on the site as well as a graphic you can add to your personal signature if you want to help him share the story!
     



     
    Length: 192,363
     
    Description: The Tree is a local fixture in the rural town of Morton. When it starts to die, the whole town rallies around to try to save it.
     
    Story Reviews:
    Starboardtack
    I am not sure how to contact the author directly, but perhaps this will get through. Thank you for an utterly delightful read. When I started reading the series, I believed this would be just another predictable gay love story. How wrong I was. The twists and turns in the plot were unexpected but most welcome. It is clear that you have a respect for your craft, your characters, and your readers. Again, many thanks.
     
    Stephen
    Graeme, you can guess by now how much I enjoyed this story, and may wonder
    if I'd have anything else to say about this final chapter and the way you ended this
    story. It was happy and real. But I was especially happy to see that you'd managed
    to tie up all the loose ends. They were all tied up in neat, leafy boughs.
     
    I love The Tree.
     
    -Pardon that awful pun, but it popped into my head last night and...
     
    uncle goodheart
    Whew! That was quite a story! I just started it a couple of days ago, so I never had to wait for a chapter, though I did spend ALL DAY on January 1 reading. It may have been a great learning experience, too, as It was an introduction to life in Austrailia, a country I may never visit. I loved the characters, as they seemed to mirror those in rural USA in many ways, though true acceptance in the USA is much more an urban trait. I can generally relate each of the characters and their relationships to people I really know, so thay were all very real. Especially the NEGATIVE ones who try to spoil the happiness of others they refuse to know or understand.
    I can say, too, that parts of the story caused me physical symptoms of grief, as well as moments of elation and joy. Yes, the story "got to me" in a very personal way. Further, I will say that this isn't the only story I've read by this author, and the author's name is precicely what caused me to pick this title, from a list of stories, to read. I am not the least bit disappointed in my selection.
    Unfortunately, too few people (especially the young ones) are interested in reading stories anymore, but I think that's because they're just too damn lazy to put in the effort of excercising their immaginations. That's sad, because authors go to a lot of trouble to produce these stimulating treasures. Thank you for this one!
     
    impunity
    After several false starts (I had a little trouble getting past the prologue), I read this entire story in a couple of days. It was really engaging, and I found myself really caring about your characters. I like that your writing is not necessarily about gay people, per se, but about how they fit into society as a whole. And about how attitudes change as the idea of being gay becomes less "other". Thank you for a great read!
     

    If you want to support Graeme and help share his story this month, download the graphic below for your personal signature!!






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