Character Interview!

Today we have our very first character interview here at the Erato blog. It's with Ricky from the M/M romance Angels and Airheads. Let's get to know Ricky:

Thank you for coming to chat with us today. Why do you think Anne chose you to represent her?

Heck, that’s a bit clever for me, I think! I’m not really sure I represent anyone. I’m just me. Anne’s okay really, and I’m always happy to spend some time with her though, between you and me, she can be a bit intense sometimes. She needs to get out more and lighten up, have some fun. All that writing and staring vacantly at her computer is enough to do anyone’s head in. Occasionally she needs some fresh air, so if she pops round, I’m always happy to take her out in downtown Muswell Hill and have a couple of drinks together. She likes that. Maybe that’s why she comes round in the first place? So what I represent to her is someone she can have a laugh with and forget about the serious stuff for a while. Suits me! And, hey, did I even get to answer your question? Go me!

Tell us a little about yourself?

Not much to say really. I’m fairly average, good at some things, mainly DIY and practical stuff. Rubbish with anything clever so make sure you don’t use any long words – I’m not sure where I put the dictionary ... I was born in London and have always lived here. Can’t imagine being anywhere else. City lad, that’s me. At the moment I’m living in downtown Hackney with two plumbers and an out-of-work actor. They’re crazy but we all get on okay. I’ve got a steady job in catering, making lunches and snacks for office workers – had it since school. Not much but it suits me and the people I work with are great. Stupid hours, but then that’s catering for you. If someone wants a party, we go all out for them to make sure they get what they want, and I like being on the deliveries round. That’s the best. 

When I’m not at work, I’m a big fan of going to the pub with my mates, and Jez – that’s my best friend. Have I mentioned him yet? I should do – I’ve known him since school and he’s great. Doesn’t even mind when I force him down to the bowling alley and make him play, even though he’s not that keen on all the noise. But I love bowling, I’m pretty good at it too. Better than Jez anyway, though sometimes I let him win, just as a thank you. He probably realises that’s what’s happening too – he’s the brainy one so not much gets past him. 

Oh and I’ve got one A level, in Biology. I’m pretty proud of it. I think the people who mark the exam must have felt sorry for me or something, as I can’t remember a thing about it now.

Where do you live? What is it about that area that drew you there?

I live in London and always have done. It’s my home and I wouldn’t leave it for the world. I love the fact that everything’s on your doorstep and it’s really easy to nip out to the pub for a couple of pints with my mates or go to the cinema. I don’t have to plan too much – I can just decide on the night. Plus Jez lives here, and why would I want to leave my friends, particularly the very special ones? Oh and the Indian takeaway just round the corner from me makes the best naan bread in the world, so I definitely couldn’t travel too far from that!

Will we be seeing more of you or are you stepping out of the lime light?

Well, it would be great to come back and see how you’re all getting on, but for now I’m giving 200% to concentrating on this amazing new development in my life. I don’t want to miss a thing…

What is your perfect evening?

It sounds crazy for a party boy, but the best thing ever is a quiet night in with Jez at his new flat, watching TV or listening to the radio, and with a couple of beers for company. I really can’t imagine anything better than that.

What do you do to relax?

I couldn’t possibly tell you! My mother brought me up to be polite, and I like to make her proud. But I suppose you could take a guess!...

Do you feel you were portrayed fairly?

Yeah, I think so. Though I’m certain Anne made me seem dumber than I really am. Sure, I know I’m not the sharpest knife in the drawer, but I can sometimes put two and two together, you know, and … um … make five. Joking! Honest – I can do Maths. Well, not as well as Jez can, obviously, what with his career in the city and everything. but I’m not so bad.

Tell us about Jez - what drew you to him?

Jez – I could go on for hours about him and I still wouldn’t have started. He’s great. I’ve known him forever, or it seems like it, and I don’t ever get bored. He’s clever and kind, and you can always rely on him. He’s 100% trustworthy – I’ve never known him let me down. He’s done really well too – a degree and a very cool job in the City. I’m so proud of him. Well, apart from his taste in music, which is totally rubbish. Nobody under 30 listens to Radio Two. Not usually anyway. I keep trying to educate him into the joys of rock, but I don’t think I’m ever going to succeed. It’s flogging the proverbial really. The best thing about Jez though is he doesn’t look down on me for being a bit of an airhead. He genuinely seems to like being with me. As I said, he’s a pretty amazing bloke.

What your favorite Ice cream flavor, Chocolate, Vanilla, or Strawberry?

Got to be chocolate. But strawberry’s good, especially in summer. Hmm, mustn’t forget vanilla – I’m a vanilla kind of bloke, and there’s nothing wrong with that! So, can I say all of them?

Do you believe in ghosts?

Funny you should ask that. I’m not sure any more. I definitely believe in angels – even though I never used to. Something happened recently to make me change my mind – probably something Jez said – and now I’m as sure as I can be that angels exist, but I’ve never met one. Not that I can remember anyway. I mean, you would remember that kind of stuff, wouldn’t you? So, no, I can’t have met any, but they’re definitely out there somewhere. Keep an eye out, and maybe you’ll see a ghost as well!

Why should the readers be interested in your story?

It’s a classic friends-to-lovers romance, with a dash of humour and heat. What could be nicer? Oh hang on, I’m sure I’m missing out something really important, but I can’t quite grasp what it might be. It might be something to do with Jez and angels, but you’ll have to read it to find out. Let me know when you do!

See more of Ricky and Jez in Angels and Airheads:

Can one determined angel smooth the course of true love and help Ricky get his man?

Ricky has been secretly in love with his best friend Jez forever, but he’s never dared confess his feelings because he thinks Jez is too high-class for him. One evening, while sharing a quiet evening with Jez, a mysterious angel, Madred, appears and tries to persuade Ricky to take a chance on love.

Too bad Ricky doesn’t believe in angels. Madred is forced to take desperate measures in an attempt to show the reluctant Ricky the truth. When the angel leaves, can Ricky find the courage to declare himself to Jez, and what will happen to their friendship if he does?

Buy it now from Musa Publishing!

Those Who Serve

One of my earliest memories is going to Arlington National Cemetery to bury my great-grandmother's ashes beside her husband. It was the first funeral I'd ever been to, and I didn't understand why everyone was standing around the tiny box when I knew there was supposed to be a coffin. That's how they always did it on TV. I was five years old, only just, and my Nana had been one of the best people I'd ever known. I didn't understand until years later how important the location of her grave was.

Her son, my grandfather, had been buried there decades earlier, and my father has the right to be buried there as well. I've got cousins who have earned their place, too. Honestly, if I told you about my family, it would be like that scene in Forest Gump, where Forest traces the line of Lt. Dan's pride back, war by war. For a pacifist, I've sure got a lot of guns in my history.

The point is, that we all know it takes a special kind of person to stand up for what they believe, especially in the face of adversity. But it takes a special kind of hero to fight for the beliefs and rights of people they have never met. To go out in a time of active war and put their life on the line not just for the other people in their unit, but for the friends and family back home. For the family and friends they've not yet had a chance to meet.

To often, we forget those heroes, or blame them for starting a war they never asked for, but put their heart and soul into finishing. This weekend is Memorial Day over here in the States, a day of remembrance for those who have died in service to their country. It is also a chance to thank all of our service members for their hard work and sacrifice.

Thank you.

---

And for stopping by today, I've got a contest for you!

Follow us on Twitter (@EratoGLBT) or with Google Friend Connect to enter for your chance to win ANY MUSA BOOK OF YOUR CHOICE. Follow both and get two entries! Not bad, huh? Remember to leave a comment with how you entered and your email so I know you've entered!

And don't forget to check out all the other blogs on this weekend's hop!

Blog Hop Contest Winners!

And the winners for our Hop Against Homophobia Blog Hop giveaways are...

Giveaway #1 (GFC)

Ashley

Giveaway #2 (FB)

J Lannan

Congratulations to you both! I'll be contacting the winners through e-mail today, so start thinking about what book you'd like!

And to everyone else who hopped by during the Hop Against Homophobia, thank you so much for coming our way. We hope to see more of you in the future!

Ryan's Harbor by Viki Lyn

Today we have a guest post from our own Viki Lyn, as she talks about Woodland Village, her amazing M/M romance series. Let's make her feel at home here at the blog!


When I set out to write my Woodland Village series, I didn’t plan on each story featuring a son having to come to terms with his father as a subplot. Sometimes the subconscious mind takes over when writing a story, and well, anything can happen!

In Blue Skye, Drew must learn to stand up to his father’s expectations. In Ryan’s Harbor, Martin Pierson feels like his father blames him for his brother’s death. He takes this belief and owns it.

When I completed the third book in the series, John’s Match, I realized again, I had a father playing a significant role in one of my character’s life. John has a very loving relationship with his father, and must learn to accept his father’s illness.

This week Ryan’s Harbor is being re-released – and I’m so happy to have it available once again.  I had so much fun writing this book, and creating Fantasy Arts – Ryan’s computer game company. I’m one of those gamers, and if I had another chance at a career, I would have liked to design computer games. It’s fun to be able to live vicariously through my characters! There is a LAN party scene where Ryan kicks butt and blows up his competition. The man’s an animal when it comes to gaming!

Here’s a blurb and excerpt:

The boys of Woodland Village are back. This time it's Drew's brother, Ryan Adams, that's going through a crisis of doubt. He's always been the guy who breezed through relationships, never getting serious with the women he dates. He doesn't know why, but one-night stands and pretty women don't seem to give him that buzz like before.  Then one night, at his brother's barbecue, he encounters Drew's assistant, Martin Pierson.

Martin agrees to design Ryan's new building for his gaming company - Fantasy Arts. As they spend time together in and out of the office, their working relationship grows into friendship and something more. But Martin can’t forgive himself for causing his brother’s death to allow for love. Ryan wants to be Martin’s safe harbor, a steadfast place where Martin can heal his heart. But can Martin put his trust in the notorious playboy of Woodland Village?

Excerpt

Ryan drove into the Fantasy Arts parking lot at three a.m. He recognized his team’s cars and smiled at their determination to play all night. He pulled in next to the Jeep and shut the motor.   

What a night! He hadn’t had that much fun since…well since his days spent with Steven. 

Martin turned in his seat and faced Ryan. “I had a great time. Thanks.” 

Wasn’t he just thinking that? “Yeah, me too.” How lame, but suddenly he had blank-brain. 

Martin looked down at his hands and then at Ryan as if expecting something, but Ryan had no clue what he wanted. 

“Well, it’s late.” Martin reached for the door handle. “Next time I’ll take all your money.”

Ryan leaned over the stick shift and let his hand rest on Martin’s thigh.  “Like hell you will.” When they’d switched to pool, he’d won thirty back. He looked forward to a rematch.

Martin looked down at Ryan’s hand, his smile wavering. “Gotta go.”

Ryan pulled back as Martin let himself out.  From his rear view mirror, he watched Martin pause, look up at the sky and then back down, before resuming his walk. He was surprised when Martin stopped suddenly and turned. He came around to Ryan's side of the car and tapped on the window. 

Ryan rolled down the window and Martin peered in, his eyes glittering green and catlike in the dark. "I forgot. I need your input on the final details of the atrium. Let's meet in a couple of days at my office. There are some issues we need to consider." 

Ryan couldn't help but stare into those feral eyes. They seemed to hypnotize him. "Ah, sure. The atrium, right." 

"Are you okay?" 

He forced a smile. "Yeah, just tired." 

Martin tilted up Ryan's chin and stared down with all seriousness. "Christ, I'm a fool."   

Without apology, Martin took Ryan’s mouth prisoner with a hot, earthy kiss full of fire.

Ryan's heart drummed in his chest; he was too stunned to react. He let Martin's tongue explore freely, expertly drawing out their breaths. The moist tip of Martin’s tongue licked across his lip, his teeth nipping and sucking, teasing the seam of his mouth. Strong hands gripped his hair and held him steady as the crafty tongue invaded his mouth. Their tongues met and a bitter taste of beer hit the back of his throat. 

Fuck, the man can kiss!

This brought up images of what else Martin was capable of doing with that experienced mouth. This is what he'd wanted since Martin had stepped foot into Fantasy Arts.

Happy Reading! I hope you enjoy my book.

To get your copies of Viki's books Click Here.

Viki Lyn
http://www.vikilyn.com
http://www.vikilyn.com/blog
http://www.twitter.com/vikilynromance
http://www.facebook.com/vikilynromance

Hop Against Homophobia - Turning Hate to Love

Welcome to our stop on the Hop Against Homophobia and thanks for dropping by! At the end of this post, I've got a little something to give away, so stick around. :)

For those of you stopping by here for the first time, this is the official blog for Erato, Musa Publishing's GLBT imprint. I'm Elizabeth Silver, head editor and person who gets blamed when things go wrong  around here. As both an editor and author of M/M fiction, I'm so very pleased to be participating in this hop.

We're supposed to post about dealing with homophobia. I think instead, I'll post a story and pictures from 2010. A local high school had been targeted by Westboro Baptist, because the drama department was putting on a production of the Laramie Project, and WBC was calling for a protest outside of the school.

In response, students, former students, community members, and people from all over the state organized a counter-protest to be held on the opposing corner. It was a heck of a drive, but I still went because I could not stand idly by. Since I found out last minute, I didn't have a chance to make any signs of my own, but instead I packed a camera:

And finally, I'd like to show you these last two shots. The first is the corner where I spent the hours leading up to curtain for the show (which was beautiful, by the way -- those kids should be very proud of the job they did):

And here's the corner we'd come to drown out with our own shouts of love, support, and equality:

No one from WBC showed the entire night. What was supposed to be a counter-protest instead became a glorious, joyful rally. Not only did we affirm that we would not be bullied, but we stood up and were counted in the name of love, equality, and an end to homophobia.

I nearly froze off some vital bits thanks to forgetting my coat for a November evening outside, but I wouldn't trade a moment of it.

If you're still here, I hope you enjoyed my (very clumsy) pictures. And, to thank you for stopping by here the hop, how about a giveaway?

How about TWO?

I'm giving away any Erato book of the winner's choice to TWO winners.

GIVEAWAY #1 - To enter, just follow this blog with Google Friend Connect (right in the sidebar). Be sure to comment and let me know you've entered! (and don't forget your email so I can contact you!)

GIVEAWAY #2 - To enter, give our Facebook page a "like," and leave a comment here to let me know! (ditto on the email)

It's that easy!

And don't forget to visit all the other fantastic stops on the Hop Against Homophobia!

GLBT YA from Euterpe and Musa!

Title: Phoenix
By: Jennifer Mason-Black
Price: $1.99

Buy it here!

Would you recognize hope if you looked into its eyes?

At sixteen, Tucker has nothing but the clothes on his back, the bruises on his ribs, and the truth about what happened between him and the band teacher. He left home looking to escape his memories, but all he’s found on the road are new bad ones to take their place.

Then he meets Gabriel, a beautiful hustler, and Kelsey, a fire-obsessed girl with a head full of fairy tales. After Gabriel rescues him from a pair of drunks looking for a fight, Tucker’s happy to join him in the abandoned factory he calls home. All he must do in return is help keep Kelsey safe.

But Kelsey’s not what Tucker thinks she is, and safety isn’t what she needs from him. To help her, he’ll have to face the secret he’s been running from, and the flames she’s running to find.

To find out more...