Saturday, December 24, 2016

Happy Holidays!


A wonderful surprise from Dreamspinner Press. One last sale before the end of the year. A perfect opportunity to catch up on my Open Series before the final book in the trilogy releases in early February.

https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/searchresults?q=mickie+b.+ashling

                 
                         Lastly, my sexy Santa and I would like to wish everyone a Happy Holiday!  




Friday, December 16, 2016

Queer as Folk Christmas Story




Long ago before my first published novel, I wrote in the QAF fandom under the name mickiebg. All my stories were AU (Alternate Universe). Some of my characters were figments of my imagination and others belonged to the creators of the Queer as Folk series. This is one of my favorites. Feel free to leave me a comment if you enjoyed this story. I'd love to hear back from you!

                                                            Snow Angels 

Brian sat in front of the fireplace holding a snifter in one hand and his phone in the other. He was waiting for the call that would tell him if this was going to be his last Christmas or not.

He was resigned to hearing bad news. It had been a miracle that he’d lived this long. He should have died years ago as a result of bad genes and a life of excess.

Instead, he’d proved them all wrong and had gone on to live until the ripe old age of sixty-three which really wasn’t that old, in an age when people were living well into their nineties.

He took a sip of the Courvoisier, relishing the taste on his tongue, the heat making its way down his throat, attempting to warm him. Nothing else seemed to reach that icy lump sitting in the pit of his stomach since they found the growth on his good testicle.

It had been Justin who’d felt it, naturally, as he was rolling it around in his mouth, a prelude to the rimming he was about to dispense. The meltdown and hysteria that followed were classic. He’d insisted that Brian call the doctor immediately, ignoring the fact that it was the middle of the night and they were in Chicago for his latest show.

Justin had roused poor Doctor Shah and had explained in a loud and demanding voice that he do something. The rest was a blur of hospitals, tests and hands all over his body; a fucking invasion of every square inch of skin, to be exact. It was just as humiliating and humbling as it was years ago. This time, however, he wasn’t going to go through all the bullshit with radiation and whatever assorted modes of torture they were going to suggest.

Back then, he’d done it for Gus, because he was still a child and needed a father. He’d done it for himself, because he was at the height of his career and needed to prove that he could make it and get Kinnetik off the ground. He’d done it for Justin, who would have been devastated if he’d died before they even had a life.

Now he was going to do it his way, and if that meant doing nothing, no one was going to stop him or convince him otherwise. He just had to hear the word, malignant or benign, and then he’d start making plans.

The door of the study pushed open and he heard the footsteps before he saw the face, and the little boy hurled himself at him, all but knocking the drink out of his hand. He scrambled onto Brian’s lap and latched on, hugging him tightly with his chubby arms.

“Taylor…hey, Buddy…when did you get here?”

“Just come, Papa B.”

Brian saw that Mrs. Lopez was standing patiently at the door. She’d been Taylor’s nanny ever since Sasha had hired her. “Where’s your daddy?”

“Big hopsital with Mama and Daddy Mark.”

“Is Aedan with you?”

“Da with Daddy.”

“So you mean it’s just you and me, Buddy?”

Taylor nodded enthusiastically, causing the brown curls that crowned his head to bob up and down. “And Mislopes. I hungry.”

Brian laughed, and put his drink down on the table and stood up with Taylor in his arms. “Let’s go see if we can’t scrounge up some food for you, okay? Mislopes,” Brian said, looking at the patient figure who doted on Taylor as if he were her own child, “Why don’t you go and get your things settled. I’ve got him.”

“Yes, sir.”

Taylor put his little hand on Brian’s cheek and made him look him in the eye. “Pbudder, Papa.”

“Okay…with jelly?”

“With nanas.”

“Yuck.”

“Not yuck, Papa! Good for you. Hair on stomach.”

“You mean your chest, and that’s a load of crap.”

“Ooh, you said crap,” Taylor whispered, his big blue eyes twice their normal size. “You need time-out.”

“I hardly think that saying crap would earn me a time-out. You, on the other hand, shouldn’t say that word, at least till you’re four,” Brian stated, trying very hard not to laugh.

“Mama said no potty mouth for Taylor.”

“And your mama is a smart and beautiful lady and you must obey.”

“’Kay. Where Papa J?”

“Your grandfather is at the hospital with your mama and assorted daddies.”

“I lucky, huh, Papa B.”

“How’s that?”

“Three daddies…more than Benjie.”

“How about that; three daddies and three grandpas. You can’t beat that.”

“Is Benjie coming?”

“He’ll be here tomorrow with his mommy and daddy. We’re having the big Christmas party, remember?

“Who else, Papa?”

“Everyone will be here, but tonight is the special night when Santa Claus comes to our house and leaves you lots of presents under the tree.”

“Mama said Santa is bringing baby sister. Is he coming down the chimney, Papa B?” Taylor asked, twisting around in Brian’s arms and getting agitated. “We need to take out the fire. Baby will get hurt!”

“Taylor, calm down. The baby will not come through the chimney and land in the fire. That’s an old wives’ tale.”

“The baby will come out of Mama’s stomach. She said, Papa B.”

“She’s right, Taylor.”

“Mama said baby sister is hiding inside her tummy. She’s sucking her thumb,” Taylor squealed, “I saw the picture!”

“Is she really?”

“Uh-huh,” Taylor nodded, “And then she sliding out the bagina!”

“Jesus Christ!”

“Papa! One more time-out.”

“Okay, sorry, Buddy. You sort of threw me with that word.”

“You need to be good, Papa B, or no presents for you.”

“I’m doing my best, Taylor. Now, do you want white or wheat?”

“Squishy bread.”

“You mean this white shit?”

“Ooh…”

“Shh…I know, Taylor. Papa B has a major potty mouth.”

Taylor’s head bobbed up and down, even as his rounded eyes never took their sights off of Brian.

“Okay, I’ll be good. You eat the peanut butter and banana.”

Brian watched as Taylor dug into the meal. He loved watching the little boy who was a wonderful combination of all the people he loved. Taylor had Sasha’s skin color, the rich creamy mocha that offset his beautiful blue eyes. They were the exact same color as Mark’s, the deep blue that was mesmerizing as hell. Brian could only imagine the damage those eyes would inflict when they zeroed in on their prime target, be it male or female. Taylor had Justin’s mouth and bone structure, his assorted allergies and from all the early signs, his mercurial personality. Calm and happy one minute, a little diva-like the next. Taylor was pretty good at throwing fits when things didn’t go his way. It was a credit to Sasha and all the daddies that he was able to keep his temper tantrums to a minimum. He could have been a raging spoiled brat, instead, he was a loving and fun kid; and so very easy to look at.

The phone rang. Brian forgot he had even brought it to the kitchen and he picked it up and saw that it was Justin. He breathed a sigh of relief, glad that it wasn’t the doctor. He didn’t want to deal with any of that right now.

“Hey, Sunshine. Are we grandparents again?”

“Not yet…she’s still in labor.”

“How long has it been?”

“Only six hours.”

“Only? Sounds hellish.”

“I know. Mark is beside himself.”

“Well, tell him to calm down. Sasha will come through like a trooper. Who’s with you?”

“The three dads and Daphne. Alex is at work and the great-grandparents haven’t arrived yet.”

“Thank, God. You’d need a bigger waiting room.”

“Brian?”

“What?”

“Have you heard anything from Dr. Shah?”

“No.”

“You’re not lying, are you?”

“Would I do that to you?”

“Yes. You’d do anything to keep me from loosing it.”

“I would,” Brian responded gently. “But not in this case.”

“Promise me that you’ll call as soon as you hear.”

“I told you I would. Now, stop being such a nagging wife and get ready to meet your granddaughter.”

“How’s Taylor holding up?”

“He’s good. We’re in the kitchen having a sandwich.”

“His usual PB and B?”

“Yup.”

“What are you going to do afterwards?”

“I thought we’d go shopping and pick up a few more gifts. I’m not quite done yet.”

“Is everything ready for tomorrow? Max assured me that the caterer would do all the work and you’d have nothing to do but write the check.”

“I’m sure that’s the case. Don’t worry about it.”

“I hope this will be over soon. The suspense is killing everyone.”

“What suspense? You all know it’s going to be a girl.”

“I know, but Gus and Aedan are vibrating in place and Mark looks like he’s going to throw up any minute now. Who knew this could be so dramatic?”

“Well, three fathers and one mother is a pretty interesting situation. I’m surprised the media isn’t there yet.”

“Don’t be ridiculous. The only ones who know the circumstances of this birth are...”

“Our immediate family,” Brian interrupted. “All four hundred of us!”

Justin started to laugh. “Well, the situation is a little different from last time. This has been a joint effort, a collaboration of brilliant minds.”

“It’s been the most interesting four-way since you and I hooked up with those twins in Australia.”

“Ssh…don’t remind me.”

“Don’t tell me you’re horny.”

“I’m alive, aren’t I?”

“You’re a shit!”

“And you love me.”

Brian held the phone tightly, gripping it until his fingers were white.

“Brian?”

“I heard you, and yes, I do love you.”

“Enough?”

“Meaning?”

“Enough to do whatever it takes to make you better?”

“You’re assuming the worst.”

“Better than being in denial.”

“Justin.”

“I’m sorry…I’m just so worried.”

“Stop it, okay. It’s Christmas Eve and Taylor is done with his meal and we are going to go and spend obscene amounts of money. Call when the baby gets here.”

“You bet. Brian?”

Brian sighed into the phone. “What, Sunshine?”

“I love you.”

“I know you do. I love you, too.”

“’Kay. Later?”

“Later.”

**********

The inside of the limo looked like a branch of FAO Schwartz. There were stuffed animals everywhere. Taylor couldn’t decide which one to buy for his new sibling so Brian bought everything in sight.

“You do realize that you’re going to need a room just for all these animals.”

Taylor was sitting beside him bouncing up and down on the seat, holding a small giraffe against his body. “Baby has a room, Papa. Daddy and Da made it, with lots and lots of pink colors.”

“And your Papa J is going to paint pretty pictures on the wall, just like in your room.”

“I did that the other day, but I had a time-out! Da said Taylor mustn’t color on walls. How come Papa J can do that? He should have a time-out,” Taylor pouted, looking exactly like Justin. So much so that Brian automatically reached for him to envelope the boy in his arms and hug him tightly against his body.

“I’m afraid that you’re going to have to wait a few years before you can start drawing on walls, little guy.”

Taylor rubbed his face against Brian’s cheek. He pulled away from Brian and held his tiny hand against the soft beard that Brian had taken to wearing. He petted the soft hair that was flecked with gray.

“Papa?”

“What?” He looked down at the innocent blue eyes that were staring up at him. “I love you the best.”

Brian felt the sting of tears pushing against the back of his eyes and he took a deep breath and willed himself to stay in control. “Thank you, Taylor. I love you the best, too.”

“When I’m a big boy, will you let me draw on your walls?”

“Do you like to draw?”

Taylor nodded his head. “I like colors, Papa.”

“What’s your favorite?”

“Orange.”

Brian chuckled. “You’re a chip off the old block.”

“What’s that?”

“That means you’re just like your Papa J.”

“Does he like to snuggle, Papa?”

“Oh, yes. He likes it very much.”

“Daddy and Da snuggle all the time. Sometimes they let me lie down in-between them and we make a sammich. Daddy says I’m the sweet stuff and him and Da are the squishy breads.”

“You are definitely the sweet stuff, Taylor, my boy.”

“I love my daddies the best, too.”

Brian smiled. “It’s good that you love your daddies. Do you like Daddy Mark?”

Taylor nodded, pulling away from Brian to resume the bouncing. “Daddy Mark is way cool.”

“Way cool?”

“He can play the guitar.”

“I had no idea.”

“He can sing, too.”

“No kidding.”

“He sings for me and Mama, and then when he puts me in bed he and Mama snuggle. They like to do that.”

“I guess we’re just a snuggling kind of family.”

“Yes.”

“Taylor, would you please stop bouncing. The motion is making me nauseous.”

The phone rang at that exact moment and Brian reached into his pocket and pulled it out. “Hey.”

“It’s a girl!”

“It would have posed a problem if it weren’t, since everything within a five mile radius of her is now pink.”

“Oh, stop it! She’s beautiful, Brian.”

“Who does she look like?”

“A little bit of everyone.”

“That’s good. What color are her eyes?”

“Blue.”

“I love blue eyes.”

Justin was silent for just a second and then he said quietly, “I know you do.”

“With all my heart.”

“Brian?”

“What, Sunshine?”

“Have you heard?” Justin asked, the catch in his voice a clear indication that he was crying.

“Hey...no news yet…please stop.”

“Call me.”

“I will. When are you coming home?”

“I’ll be there in another hour or so. I just want to hang around with the guys for a bit. They’re all going nuts taking turns carrying this baby.”

“Have they named her yet?”

“Well, she’s a Christmas baby.”

“Don’t tell me they’re naming her after Santa Claus?”

Justin laughed, “You’re crazy!”

“So, tell me. Taylor and I want to know, right Buddy?”

Taylor grabbed the phone. “Papa J, we bought lots of toys for baby sister! Did she slide out the bagina?”

Taylor passed the phone back to Brian with a puzzled look on his face. “He can’t talk. He’s laughing at me.”

Brian kissed him on the cheek. Let me handle this, Buddy. “Justin, stop laughing like a hyena and tell me her name.”

“Bagina?”

Brian smirked, looking at his grandson who was staring at him intently.

“Get a grip, Sunshine.”

“Her name is Noelle.”

“That’s nice.”

“I thought so, too. Very Christmasy.”

“Almost as nice as bagina.”

“Stop!” Justin was choking and snorting into the phone.

“Come home soon, okay?”

“I’ll be there shortly.”

Just then the limo pulled into the driveway at Britin and they got out of the car and Taylor dashed out from under Brian and threw himself on the snow in the yard, flapping his arms up and down making a snow angel.

“Come on, Papa B. You can make your own angel.”

Brian shook his head and moved over to where Taylor was lying on the ground, now covered in white. “You’re going to catch a cold!”

He tugged at Brian’s cuff and said, “Please, Papa?”

And if Brian Kinney ever had any illusions that he could say no to a Taylor who stared up at him with those blue, blue eyes, he was sadly mistaken. He lay down beside his grandson and started to make his own angel.

*********


Brian and Taylor were in the king-sized bathtub, warming up after their invigorating session with nature. There were now several snow angels that littered their front lawn.

“You like the hot chocolate that Mislopes brought you?”

“It’s good, Papa. It has marshies floating in it.”

“Marshmallows?”

“Yeah…marshies.”

“Right.”

“Do you have some in your drink?”

Brian observed that Taylor’s face was pink from the combination of warm water and hot chocolate and his hair sprung out in wet ringlets framing his face. He looked like an angel himself. All he needed were the tiny wings.

“Marshies and Irish coffee don’t quite work, but it’s all good.”

“Da is Irish, Papa.”

“I know this. So am I, and so is your daddy, and Daddy Mark.”

“Am I?”

“Absolutely! You are one-half Irish…an honorary leprechaun, that’s what you are.”

“What’s that, Papa?”

“They are magical little people. Just like you!”

“When I grow up, I’m going to be like you.”

“Why do you say that?”

“My mama says you’re pecial so when I’m a big boy, I’ll make a beard like you and be very, very pecial.”

“Your Da has a beard, too.”

Taylor nodded and sipped at his hot chocolate. “Will baby sister have a peenus?”

Brian spat out a mouthful of coffee and he put the cup down on the floor trying desperately not to laugh. “No, Taylor. Only boys have a penis.”

“That’s too bad.”

“My sentiments, exactly.”

“Huh?”

“Nothing, Buddy. Now, drink your hot chocolate before it turns to ice.”

After the bath, they dressed in warm flannel pajamas and proceeded into the master bedroom where the fire roared in the big brick fireplace on one side of the room. They sat on the white, sheepskin throw rug in front of it and waited for the cook to bring up their dinner.

“This was a fun day, wasn’t it?” Brian asked, ruffling Taylor’s hair which was now drying rapidly.

“Yes. Can we do this again next Christmas?” Taylor questioned.

Brian was silent for a bit and then said, “We’ll see, okay, Buddy?”

“Papa, we need to go downstairs and turn on the Christmas lights.”

“Now?”

“Yes, so that when Papa J comes home, he’ll see them from far away. Like the shining star…Mama said it was the flashlight that showed the three Kings how to find Baby Jesus on Christmas Eve. We need to guide Papa J.”

Brian stood and picked Taylor up with both hands and cradled him in his arms. “Let’s go downstairs.” He padded down the hallway in bare feet, holding Taylor tightly against him. His emotions were way too close to the surface after spending the day with someone who didn’t edit or censor anything that came out of his mouth.

In the entryway, he moved over to the side panel that was recessed behind one of Justin’s paintings. He lifted off the painting and hit the switch that turned on all the Christmas lights. The lawn lit up with the glow of thousands of tiny white bulbs that were strung throughout the yard and around the house.

Taylor clapped in delight as the figurines of Santa and the reindeer started to move in slow motion, in sync with the flickering of the lights. Justin had outdone himself this year, turning their front lawn into a replica of the North Pole and Santa’s workshop. “Papa, can we go outside?”

“Why the hell not. I always wanted to have pneumonia on Christmas.”

Taylor put his hand on Brian’s mouth. “Shh…you said hell.”

“Sorry.”

Brian grabbed their coats off the wrought iron hooks by the door. He stuck his feet into a pair of boots and he picked Taylor up and carried him outside. They stood on the lawn admiring the lights just as Justin drove up.

He bounced out of the car and literally hurled himself at Brian and Taylor, squeezing them both in a death grip. “How are my two favorite guys?”

“Papa J! Did you bring the baby?”

“No, big guy. She’s coming home in a few days.”

“Did she say hi to me?”

“She did; Noelle said to say hi to her big brother and Merry Christmas.”

“Noelle?”

“That’s her name. Didn’t you tell him?” Justin asked, turning towards Brian.

“I guess I forgot.”

“Papa B is silly, isn’t he?” Justin said, nuzzling Taylor on the neck.

“Papa B is my best friend.”

“Oh, really?”

“I am his best friend forever and very pecial, just in case you didn’t know this,” Brian said, kissing Justin soundly on the lips.

“How could I not?” He looked up with raised eyebrows. “Any word?”

“No. Let’s go in the house.”

Brian put his arm around Justin and with Taylor clutched in the other, they made their way back into the house. A few minutes were spent getting rid of boots and jackets, scarves and gloves. Finally, they stepped into the great room and sat on the sofa in front of another fireplace that was roaring nicely.

There was an assortment of fruit and cold cuts on the sideboard near one wall and a large platter of cookies. Taylor squealed when he saw them, but Justin insisted that he have some cheese and fruit first. Eventually, Mrs. Lopez came to gather up a droopy Taylor who was more than ready for bed.

“Papa B. Come upstairs and tell me a story.”

“We’ll be up in a minute, Buddy. You go upstairs, brush your teeth and pick out a book.”

“’Kay,” he said, blowing them each a kiss as Mrs. Lopez carried him out of the room.

And right then, as if the doctor knew they were alone, the phone rang.

Brian looked at caller ID and said, “It’s him.”

“Answer it.”

“I can’t…

Justin grabbed the phone and Brian stood up and went to look out the window. He heard Justin say hello. After that he tuned everything out. He didn’t want to hear what he already knew. The sobbing penetrated his consciousness and he turned quickly to see Justin on his knees, bent forward, his forehead on the wooden floor. He felt something hard and evil punch him in the stomach and the bile rushed to his mouth, making him heave. He stood there and closed his eyes and prayed that it would be quick. He didn’t care about himself; it was Justin he worried about. Seeing him like this would make his death that much harder.

He moved over to Justin and he bent down and grabbed him by the arms, hauling him up quickly and embracing him. Justin continued to cry, letting out huge sobs and saying, ‘thank you’, in stops and stutters. After a few minutes, the words started to penetrate the fog in Brian’s head. He pushed Justin back with a puzzled look on his face and asked, “Thank you?”

“It’s benign, Brian. The fucking tumor is benign,” Justin said, breaking down again and crying even harder.

Brian couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He grabbed Justin’s face with both hands and said, “What’d you say?”

“You’re going to be fine,” Justin said, unable to stem the flood of tears. “I’m sorry; I can’t seem to stop crying. I’ve been a wreck for weeks.”

“Hey, come here.” Brian wiped off Justin’s face and started to lay the kisses on him. First on his neck and then his cheek, his eyes, his mouth…he seemed intent on covering every part of Justin’s face with his lips, whispering, ‘I love you’, in a soft, breathy voice that broke occasionally, as a sob slipped through his resolve. Finally, Justin was quiet and they stood together holding each other so tightly, more than grateful that they’d dodged the bullet again. “How’d I get so lucky?” Brian asked.

“How did I?”

They left the room hand-in-hand and climbed up the stairs to Taylor’s room. Mrs. Lopez left as soon as they walked in and they looked down at Taylor who was already half asleep. He was holding the giraffe they’d bought that afternoon and he said, “You want to make a Taylor sammich?”

Brian smiled down at him and climbed into bed. He pulled Taylor’s little body against his chest and then Justin lay on the other side of the boy, facing him, one arm draped loosely across Taylor’s body so that he could touch Brian’s as well.

“We’re making a sammich, Papa J.”

“That’s right, Buddy, the very best kind, with my two favorite ingredients.”

“What’s gredients?” Taylor asked, barely able to keep his eyes open.

“Never mind, little guy. Close your eyes.”

After a few minutes, Taylor’s breathing shifted, signaling the arrival of sleep and they stood and walked out of the room.

The master bedroom was lit by the enormous fire that burned steadily in the corner. They walked with their arms around each other and stood at the large picture window overlooking the snow-covered lawn.

“Who made the snow angels?” Justin asked.

“Taylor and I did earlier this evening.”

“They seemed to have done their job tonight,” Justin stated. “Thank them for me, will you?”

“We’ll thank them together,” Brian said, bending down and kissing him deeply.

Brian took Justin’s hand and pulled him towards the carpet in front of the fireplace. They laid down in a tangle of arms and legs, holding each other tightly. “Who ever said that wishes don’t come true?” Justin asked quietly.

“Whoever said it didn’t know you.”

“Merry Christmas, Brian.”

“I love you, Justin…”


Saturday, December 10, 2016

Giveaway Winner!



The winner of the $20.00 Dreamspinner Gift Certificate is Tan. Please contact me here or on FaceBook so we can talk about retrieving your prize. Thank you for participating.

On a much sadder note, I'm sure you're aware that we've lost Eric Arvin, one of the kindest and most gifted writers to grace our genre. He will be taken off his ventilator on Monday and will be moving on to his next great adventure. There's a fund that has been set up to help his family with the mounting costs. Any amount would be appreciated.

Here's the link to donate: https://www.gofundme.com/um-a-mothers-love?ssid=833789918&pos=1

Thursday, December 8, 2016

2016 Rainbow Awards


With over 420 entries, I'm thrilled to announce that Yesterday was one of twenty runner-ups in the 2016 Rainbow Awards: Best Gay Book Category.  Here is what the judges had to say:

1) Powerful from start to finish, Yesterday is a stunning story rich in culture and history. One cannot help but be pulled deep into the plight of forbidden love and the psyche of the characters. In a world filled with unspeakable horrors and oceans of pain, Yesterday is magically written and we live each moment through to a happy ending. Hauntingly beautiful, written in deft prose, Ms. Ashling’s Yesterday exemplifies the very essence of true storytelling.

2) The author has done her research and it shows in not just the setting, but the way the characters react. Kam's struggle to reconcile his sexuality with his beliefs feels very realistic, and I got hooked on his and Grady's story very quickly.

3) Interesting tale of worlds colliding in both cultural and romantic tendencies, set in a time of upheaval that lead to anarchy. A recommended read.


I'm so proud this novel was included in such prestigious company. In our current devisive atmosphere, I feel it's important to write stories that celebrate our differences rather than focus on the negative.

For those of you who are interested in reading this interracial historical novel, I've attached the links.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Yesterday-Mickie-B-Ashling-
ebook/dp/B01ACZE6JI/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Dreamspinner Press: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/yesterday-by-mickie-b-ashling-6224-b

Thursday, December 1, 2016

Giveaway reminder!



Just a reminder that a $20.00 Dreamspinner Press Gift Certificate is up for grabs. Leave a comment to be entered in the drawing. Winner will be announced on December 10th. 

Monday, November 28, 2016

Monday, November 21, 2016

Thanksgiving 2016 and a bonus Giveaway!



2016 has been a turbulent year for most of us and I'm glad it's almost over. That being said, I'd like to take a moment to reflect on the good things--people, places, and events--that have enriched my life and made me grateful to be alive. 

January-I started on the Paleo Diet and increased my visits to the gym. Now I'm ten pounds lighter and in better physical shape than I've been in years. You don't realize how important it is to be able to walk for miles until you can't do it any more. Problem solved.

Also in January-My historical novel Yesterday was released. 

February-My historical novel Mayon was re-released under the DSP P imprint. 

March-I attended the annual Dreamspinner Press conference in Orlando, Florida. Aside from seeing old friends, and making new ones, I was energized. I left the meeting feeling confident in my publisher and the future of our growing genre. 

April-I made a short trip to North Carolina to visit my granddaughter. She's the first female to show up in our testosterone-heavy family in a gazillion years. Not only is she beautiful (I'm not biased-see for yourself) she's smart, loves animals, speaks her mind, and has a small army of doting relatives at her command.  She might be the one to break the glass ceiling. No lie. She's something else.       



May-I fell and hurt my neck. It doesn't sound like a positive thing BUT there were no broken bones. At my age, that's a very good thing. I'm grateful to have made a full recovery in a short time.

June-Open Seating, the first book in the Open Series was released 

July-I left for Spain and spent almost six weeks with my family in the Basque Country. It was great fun and I left with plot bunnies bouncing happily in my head. The result is a long novella that will be a part of the Dreamspinner "World of Love" collection representing Spain.  

September-The One Pulse Anthology was released.  I'm grateful to have contributed in my small way to benefit the members of the LGBT organizations in Central Florida. 

October-Open House, book #2 in the Open Series released.  

November-The Chicago Cubs won the World Series! OMG! I'm grateful to Naomi Grant, Elizabeth Noble, and all the members of DreamReaders of Dreamspinner Press for inviting me to participate in the nail-biting, hair-pulling, group watch. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the sport. Let's hope for a repeat next year! 



I'd like to acknowledge and thank my editor, Erika Orrick. Despite the many challenges she's faced this year, Erika has found the time to help me in every way possible. I'm also grateful that I have a diligent and super efficient publicist, Joleen. She's a wiz at handling my blog tours and anything promo-related.

I'm very grateful that Elizabeth North and Lynn West are a part of my life. They continue to encourage my writing endeavors, guide our publishing home with a steady and reliable hand, and pass along their high standards to everyone behind the scenes at Dreamspinner Press. I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with.

I'm super grateful to the bloggers, reviewers, loyal readers, friends and fellow authors who have supported me in one way or another this year. Thank you for letting me be a part of this community. 

To all the authors who have kept my Kindle loaded--thank you! I appreciate all your wonderful stories. They've kept me sane throughout this election year.   

Upcoming in 2017-Open Case book #3 in the Open Series will release in early February. Son #3 gets married at the end of March and presents me with granddaughter #2 in May! So excited to welcome another female into the family. I'm hoping to repeat my Spanish vacation in August and join a good friend on a Baltic Cruise in September. Meanwhile, I write, and write, and write some more... Chyna Doll fans. I'm 50% done with the sequel. Crossing my fingers and toes that my muse keeps me on track. 

Giveaway: Leave a comment on this blog for a chance to win a $20.00 DSP gift certificate. Winner to be announced on December 10. 



                                       


  


Wednesday, November 9, 2016

When in doubt...read.



A lot of us woke up to a different world. I'm still trying to process how inexperience, bigotry, and bullying is all you need to win the highest position in the land. It'll take a while for it to sink in. Meanwhile, I choose escape. My publisher is having a wonderful sale. Now's you chance to get caught up on my Open Series as well as hundreds of other great offerings. 


https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/new-releases-c

Sunday, November 6, 2016

Giveaway Winner




The winner of the giveaway is Lee Todd. Please contact me at mickie dot ashling at gmail dot com to get the code which will allow you to redeem the audible version of my novel Taste for free.


Thursday, November 3, 2016

CUBS WIN WORLD SERIES!





Last night, I had the privilege of watching the Chicago Cubs win the world series. It was a true nail-biter and could have gone either way but the Cubbies came out on top. What a fantastic night for Chicago and sports in general. 

I spent most of the game interacting with several members of the DreamReaders of Dreamspinner Press group which was a great way to share the nerves and excitement. Curses flew and plot bunnies were born.  It was so much fun! 

Everyone on the Cubs team played an essential part in this win but I'd like to single out pitcher Kyle Hendricks who did a remarkable job in his usual unflappable way. This guy is a gem. 


In honor of the win, I'd like to give away an audible book code for my novel Taste, which is set in Chicago. All you have to do to be eligible is comment on this post. A winner will be chosen on Sunday, November 6. 

Monday, October 31, 2016

Flash Sale!




GO CUBS GO! Cubs take game 5 of the World Series so Chicagoan Mickie Ashling has her eBook Taste for 99 cents until Game 6 (about 48 hours).


What should have been a brief interlude turns into something deeper when Lil Lampert meets Grier Dilorio at the Taste of Chicago. Lil is in town visiting good friends Jody Williams and Clark Stevens, and he didn’t plan to hook up with a younger man and discover a mutual love for architecture, interior design, and a unique sexual kink that keeps Lil coming back for more.


By all appearances, Grier is the quintessential bad boy who loves speed, tattoos, and leather, but Lil slowly uncovers another side: selfless, responsible, and tender, especially for  Luca, the son he’s had to deny. With Lil’s love and support, Grier will make a decision key to opening the door to a possible future together, one that includes fatherhood, something Lil has dreamed of but has never dared to explore.

https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/taste-by-mickie-b-ashling-2228-b

Sunday, October 23, 2016

Sunday Snippets



Here' the last excerpt before Open House releases on Monday, October 24. You can still save 30% off the regular price if you pre-order the book today at Dreamspinner Press. The sale ends at midnight
10/23.  Open Seating, book 1 in the trilogy is also for sale.

                                                                    ************

Half an hour later, Seth was back at his desk, and Bryce was stepping out of the elevator in the underground parking. It was cold this morning, and he knew it would get much worse in the next few months as winter hit the Midwest in its usual brutal manner, but for now, it was tolerable. A leather jacket and his waffle-knit Henley were all he needed to fend off the early-morning chill. His ass throbbed a little, a pleasant reminder of Seth he’d carry around all day. Thinking of his lover taking the lead this morning made him reach down and adjust his cock. Unbelievably, it was reacting again, growing plump with visions of Seth pressing him up against the tiles and pounding into him forcefully. God, who knew he’d unleashed such a tiger. His initial impression of timid Seth had completely changed as, little by little, the guy evolved into an assertive lover who could rise to the occasion whenever and wherever. If Bryce didn’t get his thoughts out of the gutter, he’d be hightailing it back upstairs for round two.
His truck was several aisles over but close enough to respond to the convenient app he’d downloaded on his phone. With a few strokes, he could start, stop, lock, unlock, heat up, or cool down his vehicle before he even buckled up. He sent the start and heating signal while he was walking, but didn’t notice Owen, who’d stepped out of the shadows and now stood in his path.
“Hey,” he said, blocking Bryce.
Startled, Bryce took a step back and frowned. “What the fuck are you doing here, Owen?”
“I wanted to talk before you left for work.”
“Haven’t you heard of phones?”
“I don’t have your number,” Owen argued. “Besides, this conversation needs to take place in person.”
“We’ve got nothing to say to each other.”
“That’s where you’re wrong, Bryce. I owe you an apology.”
Bryce snorted. “Now? I couldn’t care less.”
He tried to shoulder past, but Owen held him by the arm. “Hear me out, buddy.”
“You can talk while I head toward my truck,” Bryce said, shaking free. He wanted to punch the guy but wasn’t sure he’d come out on top. Owen might be flabby and out of shape, but he was still a head taller and had shoulders like an ox. Bryce knew what the guy could do when facing an obstacle, and right then, he didn’t feel like being used as a tackle sled, so he let him have his say.
“For years I’ve regretted that dumb move, which ended up hurting me in the end. You walked out, and Bill, my agent, used it against me when the higher-ups heard rumors about my orientation. Back in the day, the NFL wanted nothing to do with queers.”
“Not much has changed,” Bryce commented. “We’re still not their first-round draft pick.”
“Maybe not, but when I was in the game, it was way worse.”
“What happened?”
“Someone saw me at a gay bar and rumors began to circulate. I did my best to ward off the haters by dating a bunch of women and managed to knock one up in the process.”
“So your story about wanting kids was bullshit? You married her to protect your career.”
“Yes and no. At first I was freaked out by the idea of becoming a dad and living a dual life, but Bill convinced me it was the right thing to do. I was excited and happy when my son was born. All the lies seemed worth it as I looked down at his tiny face. Unfortunately, Bill couldn’t keep his dick away from me, and we were spotted by a teammate. He told the organization that I forced him and he feared for his life.”
“Lying sack of shit,” Bryce said in a deadly voice. “I hope you set the record straight.”
“It was my word against his, and he had a lot more clout. They let me go, word got out, and no one would touch me.”
“I’m sorry, Owen, but what’s this got to do with me?”

Pre-order links:



Thursday, October 20, 2016

5 Stars for Open House


The first review is in for Open House. Check it out here: http://gaybook.reviews/2016/10/17/open-house-the-open-series-2-by-mickie-b-ashling/

You can buy Open House, and the first book in the series, Open Seating, for 30% off at the DSP store from October 20-23. Now's your chance to catch up.

https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/open-house-by-mickie-b-ashling-7682-b

Open House Blog Tour Schedule



Hi all! Here's the schedule for the upcoming blog tour for Open House. First post will be release day, Monday, October 24. Follow along for exclusive excerpts and a chance to win a couple of giveaways. .



Tour Schedule

Oct. 24 - The Novel Approach
Oct. 25 - Love Bytes
Oct. 28 - Bayou Book Junkie
Oct. 31 - Prism Book Alliance
Nov. 2 - Sinfully
Nov. 4 - Diverse Reader
Nov. 8 - Two Chicks Obsessed
Nov. 10 - On Top Down Under Book Reviews
Nov. 11 - MM Good Book Reviews

Sunday, October 16, 2016

Sunday Snippets



As promised, another short glimpse into the continuing story of Seth and Bryce, whom you met in Open Seating. The second book in this trilogy, Open House, releases on Monday, October 24. Pre-order links appear at the end of this excerpt.

                                                                  **************

“Are you having a meltdown, or are you just sleepy?” Bryce asked gently.
“Neither. I’m trying to decide if I want to be productive or frivolous today.”
“Why not do both?”
“I can’t seem to get that pink garter belt out of my head,” Seth confessed, “and I’m afraid I won’t be able to concentrate on my writing until I’ve satisfied my curiosity.”
Bryce grinned in response. “Now that’s the kind of talk I like to hear. Take my credit card because I’m sure those things can get pricy.”
“Are you sure?”
“I know your money is tied up at the moment, and I don’t want you to pass up anything because of the price tag. Get whatever turns you on.”
“This feels like a scene straight out of Pretty Woman,” Seth joked.
“Yeah, except you’re way better looking than Richard Gere,” Bryce remarked.
“I was referring to Julia, sweetheart.”
“She’s not worth mentioning,” Bryce said. “I’ve had the hots for Gere ever since I watched An Officer and a Gentleman. That guy sure can kiss.”
“I never noticed,” Seth mused. “We’ll have to watch it together so I can compare your techniques.”
“While you’re all decked out in hot pink?”
“Don’t get me started,” Seth begged. “You’ve got to get to work.”
Bryce laughed. “Who knew you had this in you?”
“God knows, I didn’t,” Seth observed. “You’ve turned me into one of those Russian dolls with multiple inner layers. Crack one open and out pops another new and exciting creation. I wonder what you’ll find when we get to the core.”
“I like it when you call me sweetheart,” Bryce said.
“Is that all you have to say in response to my rant about turning me into a completely different person?”
Chuckling, Bryce said, “There’s nothing to say except bring it on. The kinkier the better—I’m loving this new side of you.”
Seth’s eyes widened. “Good to know.”
“There’s a Victoria’s Secret on the Mag Mile, near the apartment,” Bryce mentioned. “You’re aware of that, right?”
“No, but thanks for the heads-up.”
“Try and keep an eye out for Owen,” Bryce warned. “Not that he’ll be stalking you or anything, but I feel better issuing the warning.”
“Gee, thanks. Now I’ll be looking over my shoulder every five minutes.”
“Adam and Jack were pretty persuasive. I prefer to be overly cautious than blithely unconcerned.”
“Maybe we should rent Criminal Minds instead of a chick flick,” Seth complained. “At least we’ll get some good intel on dealing with a nutcase.”
Scowling, Bryce said, “Now it’s my turn to apologize for turning Owen against you.”
“Bleh!” Seth waved his hand in a dismissive gesture. “If you weren’t in the picture, Owen would have probably figured out some other way to fuck with me.”
“We’ll never know,” Bryce said, pulling the truck into his parking space. “Let’s go, babe. I’ve got to hustle.”
And hustle he did. Bryce was in and out of the shower in ten minutes and on his way to work before nine thirty. He was convinced Owen would be calling every hour on the hour to get an answer on the proposed bank loan.
Seth stopped thinking about Owen, deciding Bryce had things under control. He took his time getting ready to go on his shopping spree, making sure he dressed like a man of means who had shopped the store before instead of a clueless newb pawing through women’s lingerie for the heck of it. It was okay to reference Pretty Woman, but to actually live that scene would be embarrassing as hell.




Sunday, October 9, 2016

Sunday Snippets



Here's a short snippet of Open House, book 2 in the Open Series. I'll be posting a sneak peak every Sunday until release day, October 24. Those of you who are fans of the Horizons Series will be happy to see two of our favorite guys making several guest appearances throughout this book, and the one coming out early next year, Open Case. Pre-order links are posted after the excerpt. Enjoy!

Excerpt:

Bryce exited on Barrington Road and, after a few turns, entered a quiet subdivision. Most of the properties were an acre or more, judging by the distance between homes. No two houses looked alike, and Seth admired the clean lines of Lil and Grier’s home when Bryce pulled into their driveway. It reminded him a little of a Frank Lloyd Wright home he’d seen featured in a magazine long ago. The façade was unfinished river rocks and glass, and the multiple layers of the large home flowed together to create a structure that seemed part of the landscape rather than an intrusive eyesore. Many of the trees surrounding the property had already changed color and were beginning to drop their leaves in a brilliant kaleidoscope of orange, red, and brown. There were a few pine trees and evergreen shrubs in strategic locations to provide the greenery needed during the long winter months ahead. All in all, it was a gorgeous home and a breathtaking endorsement for Lil’s architectural firm.
“Did you help build this?” Seth asked, soaking up the view.

“Sure did,” Bryce said, killing the engine. “They moved here a year ago, about the time Luca went off to college. Before that, they lived closer to the high school.”
The front door opened, and a couple dressed in casual attire stepped outside to welcome them. The blond, whom Seth assumed was the older partner, had on a raspberry-colored sweatshirt with LL Bean embroidered on the front paired with black sweatpants. His arm was draped over the shoulder of an edgy-looking brunet who wore a collared polo shirt over faded blue jeans. His colorful tattoos were exactly as Bryce had described, completely covering what Seth could see of one arm. Diamond studs twinkled on his earlobes, and Seth wondered why Bryce had never hooked up with him. He was just Bryce’s type: young and gorgeous. Upon closer inspection, though, Seth saw the way the couple held each other and caught a few knowing glances between them. He didn’t have to be a mind reader to see how closely they were connected.
Their welcoming smiles set Seth completely at ease. He hadn’t known what to expect given Bryce’s cryptic remarks about their sexual preferences, but ordinary wasn’t it. If not for the million-dollar background and above-average looks, the men standing at the entrance seemed quite normal.
“Bryce, I’m so glad you could join us,” the blond exclaimed.
“Lil, this is my….”
“Boyfriend? Lover? Significant other?” Lil prompted helpfully.
“All of the above,” Bryce admitted. “Seth, this is the famous Lil Lampert and his partner, Grier Dilorio.”
“Please to meet you both,” Seth said, shaking their hands. “What an amazing home.”
“Wait until you see the inside,” Bryce said. “It makes my apartment look like a slum.”
“Oh, stop,” Lil said with a flick of his wrist.
“Yeah, don’t say shit like that with me around,” Grier said in mock protest. “I happen to think I did a great job with your place.”
“You did,” Seth said immediately, “and Bryce was just kidding.”
“I know.” Grier grinned. “Come in.”
Seth couldn’t believe what he was seeing when they stepped into the house. It had an open atrium design, with soaring ceilings and large planters filled to overflowing with live ferns and colorful flowers. It felt like he was walking into a tropical paradise, not a home in the Midwest.
“My goodness,” Seth exclaimed. “Your heating bill must be astronomical.”
Lil cackled. “Grier complains about the temperature all the time, but I was born and bred in California. This,” he continued with a dramatic sweep of his arm, “is my concession to living in this horrible climate. I suffer from seasonal affective disorder, and it’s important that my lighting mimics the sun during the long winter months. The cost is peanuts compared to my loss of income if I sank into one of my SAD depressions. Isn’t that right, love?” he asked Grier, who was standing off to the side with Bryce
“Lil is a freak about the cold,” Grier said frankly. “You would think he’d be used to it by now, but he still hates it. The seasonal lights go on as soon as the leaves start to change color.”



Saturday, September 24, 2016

Coming Soon!


Open House, the second book in the Open Series, will release on October 24 and can be pre-ordered on the Dreamspinner Press Coming Soon page. Click on the link below to read the first chapter and order your copy. Follow Seth and Bryce as they adjust to life after the cruise. As you can see by the blurb, surprises await, and not all of them are good. Check it out!  

Blurb:

By the time Seth Wilder and Bryce McFarland return to Chicago after their UK cruise, they’re halfway in love. They decide to move in together to see if their feelings can survive in the real world.

Seth receives word that a mandatory autopsy was performed on his late partner because his death was a suicide. The medical examiner’s findings are disturbing and leave some doubt as to the underlying cause of death.

Because of the suicide clause, life insurance benefits had been denied, but in light of these new findings, Seth’s lawyer advises him to appeal. The insurance investigator turns out to be the man who broke Bryce’s heart twenty-five years ago. The guy has fallen on hard times, and when he sees how successful Bryce has become—and how large Seth’s potential payout might be—he decides he wants a piece of the pie. Bryce and Seth’s new relationship is severely tested in this second novel in the Open Series.


https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/open-house-by-mickie-b-ashling-7682-b


Wednesday, September 21, 2016


I had the privilege of being part of this anthology. As you can see by the intro, all proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in Central Florida. I hope you pick up a copy and spread the word. Thank you!  



By Connie Bailey, Ellis Carrington, Edmond Manning, Chrissy Munder, Caitlin Ricci, Andrea Speed, M.T. Aspen, Jayce Ellis, Sera Kane, Dev Bentham, George Seaton, Renee Stevens, Emery C Walters, Vicktor Alexander, Alicia Nordwell, C.C. Dado, M.A. Church, Troy Storm, Mickie B. Ashling, KC Burn, Jon Keys, John Goode, John Amory, Grace R. Duncan, Felicitas Ivey, Elizabeth Noble, Bree Cariad, Lila Leigh Hunter, Laura Lascarso, J. C. Long

Stories drive life. Sometimes life is good; sometimes life is bad. But it’s the nature of our community that in the aftermath of an act of hatred, we respond with love. Because darkness cannot exist in the presence of light. Cruelty cannot stand against compassion. Negativity will never overcome hope.

To show our support for those affected by the Orlando shooting, our authors, editors, artists, and staff have volunteered their talents to create this anthology. All proceeds will be donated to LGBT organizations in central Florida. Join us as we celebrate the triumph of love over every obstacle.



Jon Keys—A Single Night

Alicia Nordwell—About Best Friends & Boyfriends

Mickie B. Ashling—Adíos

M.T. Aspen —Asking for Trouble

M.A. Church—Chasing Tyme

Caitlin Ricci—Coming Out

George Seaton—Cucurrucucú

Jayce Ellis—Dance

Bree Cariad—Everyday Miracles

Chrissy Munder—Everything I Need

Ellis Carrington—For the First Time

Felicitas Ivey—Get Me to the Church Town Hall on Time

John Amory—Happy Pride

Grace R. Duncan—Hope

John Goode—Let Them Eat Cake

J. C. Long—Magical Boys Just Wanna Have Fun

Elizabeth Noble—Magicicada

Renee Stevens—More Than a Pact

Troy Storm—One Big Happy… Bunch

Connie Bailey—One Heart at a Time

Dev Bentham—Perfection

Andrea Speed—Pride

Laura Lascarso—Pull

Lila Leigh Hunter—Raffled Kiss

Emery C. Walters—Ranch Dressing

C.C. Dado—Read My Lips

Sera Kane—The Stag's Bane

KC Burn—The Tithe

Vicktor Alexander—The Wooing of the Marqués de Sierra de Outes

Edmond Manning—They Danced

 https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/one-pulse-7577-b


Wednesday, September 7, 2016

Monday, July 18, 2016

Cover Reveal!



I'd like to share the cover for the next book in the Open Series which will release sometime in October. Open House continues exactly where Open Seating ends. Seth and Bryce are back in Chicago after their romantic cruise, and the guys are ready to take their relationship to the next level. Unfortunately, real life intrudes almost immediately, and the close connection they'd established during the trip is severely tested.

The Open Series is a planned trilogy and books need to be read in order to be fully enjoyed. Dreamspinner Press is having a flash sale from 7/18 to 7/20 and you can find Open Seating for 25% off. Get caught up before the next book releases.

Here's the link to Open Seating: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/open-seating-by-mickie-b-ashling-7043-b




Friday, July 1, 2016

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Blog Tour: Open Seating at Multitaskingmomma's Book Reviews


Today is the final day of the Open Seating blog tour and I'm at Multitaskingmomma's Book Reviews. Check out the new excerpt and a great review of this unusual shipboard romance. Don't forget to throw your name in the hat for a giveaway! Thanks to those of you who have followed along on the tour and commented. Although I couldn't reply to each and every one I appreciate your participation.

http://www.multitaskingmommas.com/2016/06/exclusives-blog-tour-review-excerpt.html