Happy New Year!

                     

                                                Wishing you all the very best for 2018!
                                                                                via GIPHY

Being With Him is live and The Open Series is a daily deal!

Being With Him is live today and the Open Series is on sale as part of the Dreamspinner Press Daily Deal. It's a great time to catch up on the entire series or buy the book you're missing. Price points are  $1.00, 2.00, and 3.00 until midnight 12/27. Clicking on my name will take you directly to my page. Mickie B. Ashling

Smashwords Year End Sale!

Being With Him: Twelfth Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Eleventh Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Tenth Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Ninth Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Eighth Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Seventh Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Sixth Day of Christmas

Being With Him: Fifth Day of Christmas Culinary Tour

Being With Him Tour Continues

Being With Him Blog Tour: Day 2

Today the blog tour continues at Divine Magazine. Check out Alex's recipe for corn pudding and click on the Rafflecopter widget for another chance at the giveaway.

Being With Him blog tour begins today!

As I mentioned in my previous post, my twelve (yummy) days of Christmas with Zeb and Alex starts  today at The Fiction Nook. Check out Alex's recipe for collard greens, read an excerpt of the first chapter, and throw your name in the Rafflecopter for a chance to win a $25.00 dollar DSP gift certificate.

Check it out here: My Fiction Nook

For those of you who prefer the convenience of one-clicking, Being With Him is now available for pre-order at Amazon

I hope you'll join us on the delicious tour!

12 Days Before Christmas Blog Tour!

Friday Preview

Being With Him
A Horizons Series Novella
Excerpt #1

Turning his attention back to the 9/11 tour, Alex listened as the guide explained the meaning and symbolism of the memorial, and the design and appearance of the museum, while throwing in relevant stories along the way. The guided portion of the tour, which had remained true to the projected time of two and a half hours, ended at the One World Observatory where Zeb and Alex could continue on their own if they chose. This self-guided tour would take approximately one to two hours depending on their pace.
“Would you like to call it a day?” Alex asked, giving Zeb the option of staying or leaving. “We can do this portion of the tour the next time you’re in town.”
“You don’t mind?” Zeb asked, looking relieved. “I’m sort of wrecked.”
“Not at all. Hungry?”
“Starved. Let’s grab a bite before going home.”
They ended up at a convenient burger place and chowed down like they hadn’t had the enormous breakfast earlier that morning. In between swallows, Zeb bombarded Alex with more questions.
“So you’re attracted to guys?”
“Are you offering?” Alex teased.
“Dude, come on. You said you’d tell me more later.”
“I’ve always been attracted to guys.”
“So you’re gay,” Zeb concluded.
“Must we do labels?”
“I’m just trying to understand how this works,” Zeb explained. “You’re my first transgender friend—”
“Not a science experiment,” Alex snapped. “If you cut me, I’ll bleed like anyone else.”
Zeb’s eyes widened. “Chill out, dude. I never said otherwise. Don’t get all snarly.”
“Shitcan the label.”
“All right,” Zeb said. “Do you mind if I ask a few more questions?”
“Talking about myself to a complete stranger is uncomfortable.”
“But I’m not a stranger,” Zeb defended. “Not anymore. All I’m trying to do is educate myself. I don’t want to offend you by saying the wrong thing, but I guess I’ve crossed that line several times already. I’m sorry.”
Alex reached for Zeb’s hand across the narrow table. “No, I’m the one who should apologize. You’re fine, Zeb. Trying to explain my feelings to a cis male makes me hostile.”
“Cis?”
“Cisgender,” Alex said patiently. “A person whose gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. Transgender people are the exact opposite. I was born with female organs but considered myself male from an early age.”
“Gotcha,” Zeb said. “This can get really complicated, right? Like that Jenner person. She used to like girls, but now that she’s no longer a guy, she’s insisting she’s not a lesbian.”
Alex laughed. “You really need to stop using Caitlyn as a reference.”
“But she’s famous, Alex. Shouldn’t her opinion matter?”
“Not necessarily,” Alex said. “As I’ve said before, each of us chooses our path, and no two are ever the same. I don’t know—and I honestly don’t care—who Jenner is sleeping with these days.”
“You don’t like her?”
“Let’s just say she’s not your typical transgender woman.”
“I think she should just come out and call herself a lesbian if she still likes women,” Zeb persisted. “Don’t you?”
“Oh my God, Zeb, enough! Are you done with your food?”

Being With Him will release on December 27 and is available for pre-order here: Dreamspinner Press

Cover Reveal!

Presenting the gorgeous cover created by Kanaka for my Christmas novella which releases on December 27.

Being With Him features Zeb and Alex, newest members of the Horizons Universe and can be read as a standalone  The novella is available for pre-order at the Dreamspinner store and is currently 35% off list price. 

Blurb

Zeb Araneda leaves his privileged but closely supervised life in the Philippines to study architecture at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, where his new roommate is openly gay Luca Dilorio.

Alex Boulet is a successful print model who appears to have it all, but on closer inspection, the ready smile never reaches his mesmerizing green eyes. Tired of living alone, Alex moves in with fellow model Chyna Davidson, Luca’s boyfriend.

Away from his father’s watchful eye, and with Luca’s help, Zeb learns to navigate his new environment, and experiences freedom of choice for the first time. This fresh perspective allows him to step out of his comfort zone and act on his attraction to Alex.


The holiday season has always been difficult for Alex. Sappy commercials tug at his heart, and storefront windows depict idealized scenes that remind him of what he’ll never have: a loving partner willing to accept his truth. Will this Christmas be another disappointment, or will Santa finally make his wish come true?

Pre-order here:  Dreamspinner Press

Once Upon a Rainbow is live!

Once Upon A Rainbow is available for release at all major retailers! To celebrate this fabulous day we've rounded up a group of Ninestar Authors to participate in a Facebook event. Here's some information and a link.  Hope to see you there! 

Join us for the book release party for the amazing LGBTQA+ twist on fairy tales, "Once Upon a Rainbow:1" anthology and a Ninestar Press Author Takeover. We will have 15 fabulous authors on hand for contests, Q&A, and more. There will be prizes such as free ebooks, paperbacks, LGBT pride goodies, swag, and more.The names of the authors will be added as soon as possible so you'll know the schedule of events.
The subject to change schedule of authors is as follows:
9 a.m. -
10 a.m. - Dianne Hartsock
11 a,m, - Mickie Ashling
12 p.m. - Riza Curtis
1 p.m. - Kari Trenten
2 p.m. - Sydney Blackburn
3 p.m. - Brianna Kienitz
4 p.m.- Sara Codair
5 p.m. - SJ Foxx
6 p.m. - Keelan Ellis
7 p.m. - Sera Trevor
8 p.m. - Kevin Klehr
9 p.m. - L.M. Pierce
10 p.m. - J.P. Jackson
11 p.m.- M.D. Neu
Midnight - Author Ashley Fae

Facebook Event

Buy Links
NineStar Press
Amazon

Tuesday Teaser!

Through My Own Lens is live!

Blog tour schedule!

Halloween Sale!

Friday Preview

Friday Preview

Cover Reveal!

Tuesday Teaser!

 MY THOUGHTS WERE still on James and the emotion-packed day when I walked into Gerard’s room at six o’clock. His parents were delighted to see me, and the unexpected treat I brought along was a nice bonus. I was ravenous by then, and we enjoyed the delicious bāo with cups of steaming green tea Mei had thought to bring in a large thermos. We kept the conversation light, sticking to restaurants and bakeries, rating them according to personal preferences.
     Traditionally served as dim sum, a Cantonese style of cuisine, and usually reserved for brunch, the bun in its original form consisted of wheat-flour dough filled with barbecued pork then steamed. They evolved through the years, and now the buns were available throughout the day as a baked good. This mode of cooking made them easier to transport and stay fresh longer. When I went back to the States to get my college degree, I was disappointed I couldn’t find them anywhere but in Chinatown. To me, they were comfort food, as necessary as mac and cheese to my roommates.
     Gerard had been given clearance to go home in the morning, which would leave the afternoon free for my meeting with DI Lee. Now that my belly was full, and Gerard was firmly on the road to recovery, the urgency to share my concerns with the detective seemed to fade. Perhaps I was overreacting as usual and should take a moment to step back and assess the situation. Then again, it wouldn’t hurt to hear what he had to say if they’d uncovered something new.
     After his parents left, Gerard asked me about the funeral. “Was it well attended?”
     “Yes, but I didn’t pay any attention to the guests. I couldn’t tell you who was there.”
     “Understandable,” he said. “How are you holding up?”
     “My emotional bank has been severely depleted,” I confessed. “An infusion of TLC wouldn’t go amiss.”
     “Why don’t you get in bed with me and let me hold you for starters.”
     “That sounds great.” I toed off my shoes and snuggled by his side. Under normal circumstances,         Gerard’s loving presence would have chased away the blues, but I couldn’t seem to get James out of my mind. Should I reach out to him? Let him know there were no hard feelings. The truth was I felt guilty. Maybe my longing for a more attentive lover hadn’t fallen on deaf ears but had acted as a catalyst, the speck of sand that over the years grew into a pearl James called love. Jesus. What in hell had I started?
     I’d vowed to keep the incident to myself, to spare Gerard the additional drama, but in the end, my confusion got the better of me. With my head on his chest, I whispered, “Something disturbing happened this afternoon.”
     Gerard stiffened. “Do you want to talk about it?”
     “Only if you promise to remain calm.”
     “I’ll do my best, but if it involves abuse of any kind, all bets are off.”
     “He didn’t actually succeed,” I hedged.
     “What happened, Niall?”

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

Friday Preview

I'm over at On Top Down Under Reviews today with an exclusive excerpt and giveaway in honor of their 5 year blogversary. Check it out and be sure to leave a comment to enter the drawing.


http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/blog-versary-a-note-of-thanks-by-mickie-b-ashling-third-son-excerpt-giveaway/

Tuesday Teaser

Third Son Excerpt #3

     I got back to the office after two. There were no emergencies or unexpected meetings to attend. Nothing that got in the way of my texting Gerard to let him know I was okay. He’d called earlier, but I didn’t pick up as I was on my way to meet James. I had Peter on my mind and a potential rift with an old friend, but now that disaster had been averted, I was able to give Gerard my full attention.
He asked to meet after work, and I agreed. The thought of going back to my apartment after this morning’s incident was daunting. I wasn’t sure if James would get a hold of Peter today, and I couldn’t bear another confrontation on the heels of the last one. Seeing Gerard was a much better option.
     I met him at the entrance to his apartment building, and we greeted each other in Mandarin. Tonight’s seafood restaurant had one of my favorite dishes. Cracked crab in black bean sauce with spicy garlic noodles on the side. I removed my jacket and hung it on the back of my chair. The waiter handed us large paper bibs to protect our shirts from splatter. Having done this before, I knew it was a necessary accessory if I wanted to preserve my Armani shirt and tie. The food was incredible, and I slurped the sweet meat out of the crab legs and did the same with the noodles. I paused for a second, recalling my good manners, then I did a quick reboot as I looked around. Everyone around me was slurping up a storm, and the approval in the waiter’s eyes as he watched me enjoying my food with proper gusto was gratifying. I was home.
     Beyond Gerard’s initial text regarding my state of mind, Peter wasn’t discussed. I didn’t tell Gerard about this morning’s break-in or my meeting with James. I honestly didn’t want him caught in the crossfire. After we were done, fragrant hot towels were handed out to clean up our fingers and mouths. Green tea accompanied by dessert—small bowls of chilled peeled lychee—completed the meal.
     “Are you tired, or would you like to come up to my place for a drink?” Gerard asked when we exited the restaurant. “I did a preliminary sketch for your campaign. I wouldn’t mind an honest opinion before I go any further.”
     “That sounds great.”Gerard reached for my hand, and I followed him through the maze of narrow streets toward his building. Once inside his place, we hung up our jackets and toed off our shoes. He directed me to one of the tables against the wall. As he mentioned, the drawing was rough, but I could envision the finished product. He’d captured the natural beauty of a typical Shanghai park, adding koi-filled ponds and lantern-strewn pathways, while inserting crowds of people in varying ages. One had to really look to find the same-sex couples, but they were there for those who were hoping to see a change.
     “This is great,” I said enthusiastically. “I think she’ll be pleased.”
     “I’m glad,” he said, looking excited. “I’ll have a few more to present by next week.”
     We walked back toward the kitchen. “Beer or brandy?”
     “What’ll you have?” I asked.
     “A kiss will work for me.”
     I flushed, not expecting this to escalate so soon, although I should have known better. We were attracted to each other and had been from the first. Still, I had to make an attempt to slow things down.
     “Mixing business and pleasure isn’t a good idea.”
     “We broke that rule in Vegas,” Gerard reminded me.
     “That’s true,” I said, teetering on my resolve. “I suppose one kiss won’t really hurt.”
     Gerard moved toward me. “You think we’re stopping at one?”
     “Let’s try.” I took a breath before his soft lips met mine, and I knew we’d never stop at one.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-
ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

In Case You Missed It!

Exclusive Excerpt #2

Niall has been in love with Peter since he was fifteen. After being apart for eight years, he’s looking forward to starting a new life, one that no longer involves subterfuge. He’s disappointed to find that nothing has changed; in fact, things are worse.  

     At my desk the next morning, I thought back on Peter’s midnight visit. He was gone when I woke up. There was nothing to indicate he’d ever been there other than the used condom in the wastebasket by my bed. Even though he hadn’t left money on the nightstand, I still felt like his whore. He was getting worse instead of better. I pulled out my phone and sent him a blistering text, telling him to stay away. I was tired of his shit and determined to push him out of my heart.
     My new resolve lasted about three hours, long enough for Peter to mount a counteroffensive. A messenger showed up after lunch with a magnificent purple and white orchid in what looked like an antique celadon vase. I wasn’t a connoisseur of either orchids or Chinese porcelain, but I was a sucker for gestures, be they grandiose or sweetly romantic. The accompanying apology in his handwriting weakened me further. At least he’d had the decency to walk to the florist himself rather than sending a minion.       When my phone rang about an hour later, I knew it was him.
     “Good save,” I said by way of greeting.
     “I’m sorry, Niall. Am I forgiven?”
     “Only if you can explain what’s going on. Why are you more insensitive than ever? I thought things would be different this time, Peter. Are we regressing instead of moving in the right direction?”
     He sighed. “I’ve got a lot going on you don’t know about.”
     “Talk to me then,” I pleaded. “Why are you keeping me at arm’s length?”
     “It’s local shit that doesn’t concern you.”
     “Anything that bothers you is worth discussing,” I said. “If nothing else, I can be your sounding board.”
     “Why don’t we do it over dinner?” he suggested. “Come to my apartment after work and I’ll wine and dine you.”
     “I’m more interested in talking than eating.”
     “We’ll get to that later.”
     “Do you promise?”
     “I give you my word.”
     I looked at the appointment calendar on my desk and saw that my evening was free. Tomorrow was Gerard’s art show, which I still planned to attend, unless Peter proposed tonight. Righto. The odds of that happening were a zillion to one.
     Making up my mind, I informed him I’d be there around six.
     “That’s great,” he said, sounding relieved. “Niall?”
     “Yes?”
     “Thanks.”
     “For what?”
     “Putting up with me for so long,” Peter said softly. “You’re a prince.”
     My heart stuttered for a sec, then resumed a steady beat. I couldn’t remember the last time Peter said anything remotely meaningful. He must really be in a bad place if this slipped out so easily.
     “I love you, Peter. You know I’ll always be here for you.”
     “See you later,” he said, ending the call.
     Hope split open like a ripe fig. Peter was emotionally stunted, and I was a fool for buying into his crap. Irritated, I turned my attention back to the job at hand.
     Minister Guo had begrudgingly agreed to add a few same-sex couples in the very distant background of their new travel posters. The images had to be subtle. Anything overt would be dismissed as inappropriate. Rather than using artists on our staff, which were costly in her opinion, she insisted on raw talent from the Mainland she could get for free. I told her the wrong images could ruin the entire campaign, and it was in her country’s best interest to use the best, regardless of cost. She’d asked for a list of names and samples of their work so she could make a decision.
     Naturally, I thought of Gerard. I’d worked with him once before, and he was damned good. Plus, he was a local guy and understood the prevailing mindset. He’d be perfect for the job, except he wouldn’t come cheap. Perhaps if he learned the project was for the PRC, he might be more benevolent. On the other hand, why should he give them a discount unless he could get something in return? I had no idea what that might be at this point, but it would be something to discuss tomorrow if I could drag him away from his admirers.
     Peter’s place on Central Street was in the same building owned and occupied by Wei Bank. It overlooked Victoria Harbor and the views were fantastic. It was also very convenient for him to take the elevator down to work each morning, put in the requisite hours to keep everyone happy, then go back upstairs to the penthouse to change into club attire. The truth was he spent more time at Pandora than at his day job. It was James logging in the long hours and making financial decisions that would impact customers from all over the world.
     His majordomo, Shun, opened the door when I rang the bell. I knew he’d disappear the minute we were settled, but he’d stick around long enough to make sure Peter had everything within reach. He was a fixture in Peter’s life and privy to all his secrets, which included me.
     Bowing, Shun greeted me in Cantonese. “Welcome home, young sir.”
     “Thank you,” I replied in the same language.
     “I’ll let Master know you’ve arrived.”
     Shun disappeared, soundless in his embroidered cloth slippers. He didn’t look any older than he had when I first laid eyes on him. He could have been in his mid-forties, or late fifties for all I knew, but the dour expression and malevolent glint in his all-seeing eyes hadn’t changed. Most everyone was terrified of Shun, a reputation he’d perpetuated by earning a black belt in Shaolin Kung Fu and keeping his distance from the rest of the staff. He’d been charged with Peter’s safety when he’d returned from college at the age of twenty-two and hadn’t left his side since. I was always treated like James’s best friend, the pesky young admirer to the more sophisticated older brother, until Shun walked in on us one day sucking each other off. He didn’t even blink, only shut the door and switched my honorific. Going forward, I was sir instead of boy.

You can purchase Third Son at the following retailers:

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Friday Preview

 In Case You Missed It-Blog Tour #1 Exclusive Excerpt

THERE WAS A Starbucks on the ground floor of my building, and I stopped on my way out to get a large black coffee with an extra shot of espresso. The aspirins had helped control the headache, as had the shower, but I was a little sluggish and had to be on point for my meeting. Trying to convince the PRC that their antiquated opinions on gay rights didn’t measure up to the changing landscape would be a challenge. The queer community had as much, if not more, disposable income at their fingertips, but they balked at visiting countries renowned for their hard line against their tribe. Even when they did venture into parts of mainland China, they were paranoid and reluctant to walk about outside of the arranged tour.

After paying for my drink, I murmured xié xie—thank you—in perfectly accented Mandarin. The barista’s eyes rounded in surprise upon hearing the polite words coming from a blue-eyed ginger in a bespoke three-piece suit. In the days of British Rule, it was common to find Westerners who spoke the language, but since 1997, when China took back Hong Kong, many of the expats had returned home. The majority of Caucasians who now resided in the area were transient businessmen and didn’t have the time or inclination to learn the difficult language. It was second nature to me, so much a part of my persona I never realized when I shifted language as needed. Winking playfully, I left her a nice tip.

I had time to walk to the escalator that would take me to the central part of town, so I could catch a cab to my office at the AIA Kowloon Tower in Kwun Tong. If I decided to stay beyond this assignment, I’d have to look into purchasing a car and possibly selling my place on Manhattan’s Upper East Side to invest in something local. Having been away for so long, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to live here permanently. I’d made that clear to the higher-ups when I accepted this campaign. Peter had a lot to do with my decision. Given his connections, it would be impossible to have any sort of personal life in this town if our relationship didn’t pan out. I knew he wasn’t the only attractive man in my immediate vicinity, but he was the one I wanted. If I couldn’t have him, then I’d rather be on the other side of the world.

Having just arrived a week ago, it would take my olfactory senses a few more days to acclimate to the combination of fetid and flowery aromas that were so much a part of this city. Bins overflowed with rubbish until the garbage collectors made their rounds. As I got closer to the harbor, smells changed. The briny tang of the ocean mingled with diesel fuel, masking everything else. The Star Ferry shuffled people back and forth from Hong Kong to Kowloon all day, and car and bus exhaust hung heavily in the air.

People prattled into their cell phones as they rushed about, shoes skidded across walkways leading to the ferry, double-decker buses rumbled, bicycle and tricycle riders didn’t hesitate to squeeze their annoying, trilling bells to warn pedestrians to get out of the way while car and bus drivers utilized horns haphazardly. I was keenly aware that people around here didn’t talk in low murmurs. Voices caterwauled from all directions. As one got deeper into the areas of commerce and open food markets, shop owners hawked goods from doorways, haggled over prices in strident tones, cackled in amusement when they made the deal, brayed in anger if they were blocked, shouted at potential pickpockets, and waved off nefarious lookie-loos.

I’d lived in big cities all over the world, but nothing could compare to Hong Kong’s energy. This was a city of commerce, centuries old, and the smell of money was as redolent as the stink of fish. It felt great to be back in my element, but on the other hand, not much had changed in my personal life. I was still the freckle-faced áng-mo—red-haired foreigner, a step up from the more derogatory gweilo—looking for a meaningful relationship with an unattainable man.

James, Peter’s younger brother, had invited me for dinner tonight. We were both twenty-nine, had bonded at twelve after ending up on the same basketball team, and stayed friends despite our distance. I was certain he’d pump me for information regarding my visit with Peter. To this day, he felt personally responsible for our disastrous pairing. Every time Peter hurt my feelings, James would know. Apparently, my cool mask slipped when it came to love.

You can purchase Third Son here: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

Third Son is Live!

Third Son is live!

http://amzn.to/2xDRdtZ

https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/third-son

Friday Preview

My attention was drawn to the beautiful dragons, and I traced them lightly with my fingers. “Have I told you how much I like these?”
“You might have mentioned it,” he replied gruffly.
“I wish I could have a tattoo, but it would get lost in a sea of freckles.”
“Why choose ink when you have a natural constellation of art?”
“Oh, please. My complexion is a muddied canvas compared to yours. I can’t even see your pores.”
“That doesn’t make yours any less beautiful. Colors are a big part of my life, and when I look at you, I see every variation of red imaginable. It would take me hours to replicate some of your shades.”
He was carding my hair with one hand and thumbing my face with the other. I’d never been studied with such intensity. Instead of feeling self-conscious, I was flattered beyond measure.
“Would you sit for me one day?” he asked. “I would love to capture you in pastels.”
“Seriously?”
“Hasn’t anyone ever told you how extraordinary you are?”
“Me?” I practically squeaked in shock. “I’ve always been the butt of jokes.”
“People can be so blind sometimes.”
“Or perhaps you’re seeing me with different eyes.”
,

 “Yes, a more critical artistic eye, which should underscore the sentiment. You’re very attractive.”
I kissed him then, overwhelmed by the praise. No one had ever given me such an ego boost.
“I’ll walk you to your apartment,” he said after we broke apart.
“There’s no need. I’ll take a cab.”
“Then I’ll ride in the cab with you.”
“G….”
“Humor me, Niall. I want to make sure you’re safe.”
“If you insist.”
“I do.”
When we stepped out of his building, the streets were busy. It was eleven o’clock but early by Kowloon standards. People were still dining or clubbing, and it felt like a shame to cut our evening short.
“Let’s take the ferry,” I suggested. “Unless you want to hurry back.”
“There’s nothing pressing,” Gerard remarked. “I rather like the idea of having you for another thirty minutes.”


Third Son will be available for purchase on Monday, October 2.  30% off the price if you purchase at NineStar. Type PREORDER at checkout. Offer only good until the book releases.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/third-son

Third Son Blog Tour Schedule

Hi everyone! Here's the schedule of blogs that are participating on the tour. Read an exclusive excerpt at each stop and throw your name in the hat to win a giveaway.

October 2- Abbys 1-Click Book Blog
October 2- Southern Babes Book Blog

October 3- Dani's Book Reviews Blog
October 3- Happily Ever Chapter
October 3- Bayou Book Junkie

October 4- Zipper Rippers
October 4- Stories That Make You Smile

October 5- Wicked Faerie's Tales and Reviews
October 5- A Book Lover's Dream Book Blog

October 6- Love Bytes
October 6- Divine Magazine
October 6- The Novel Approach
October 6- Dawn's Reading Nook

One more week!

                                     NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

                                  Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-                                                                 ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

Friday Preview: Inspiration Shots

This Friday I'd like to post more inspiration shots and a couple of teasers. One of my characters has dragon tattoos on both arms. When I was fleshing him out in my first draft I trolled the internet looking at a zillion images to find inspiration. Here's a few that caught my eye.

First Gerard sighting...

I was killing time before meeting my afternoon client, who owned a chain of hotels in Thailand. As part of the team in charge of his advertising, I was asked to appraise a series of murals created by a new artist, someone recommended by a friend of a friend. I wasn’t an art expert, but it was my job to know trends, and Gerard Sun was generating a lot of hype. As it happened, he caught my eye, hours before our face-to-face meeting. I almost swallowed my tongue when he climbed out of the pool, water sluicing down his chest past his well-toned abs and disappearing into black trunks that were plastered to his junk. He reminded me of Lee Byung-Hun, whom I’d fallen in lust with after seeing G. I. Joe: Rise of the Cobra, only this guy was younger and way hotter. I had a thing for Asian men and Gerard was fucking gorgeous.

Another sighting...

I recognized Gerard immediately. He was in his usual getup: tight paint-splotched jeans, sleeveless black T, and a backward-facing ball cap keeping his shaggy chin-length hair out of his face. He rolled his shoulders as he scanned the room. The movement made the colorful dragon tats on both arms come to life. I couldn’t take my eyes off the amazing body art he’d designed, a tribute to his zodiac sign. The scales of the magnificent creatures seemed to move of their own accord as they climbed up his sinewy arms and wrapped around his neck. Honey-colored eyes zeroed in on mine, and I responded the way I always had in Gerard’s presence.

Third Son is now available for Pre-order. If you decide to purchase the novel at NineStar Press, you can get a 30% discount by typing in PREORDER at checkout.

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

NineStar Press: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

Friday Preview: Third Son

Hi all! We made it to Friday and that means another sneak peek at my upcoming release. Third Son is a contemporary m/m novel set in Hong Kong.

Before you get started on the excerpt, I'd like to remind you about the 30% discount available at NineStar Press if you pre-order the novel. Once the book releases it goes back to full price. Type in PREORDER at checkout to get the discount. Here's the link: https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/

I know some of you prefer Amazon's convenient one-click method and I totally get that. Here's the direct link to Third Son: https://www.amazon.com/Third-Son-Mickie-B-Ashling-ebook/dp/B075GX12SJ/ref=la_B004QSCN3E_1_30?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1504964136&sr=1-30&refinements=p_82%3AB004QSCN3E

And we're off....

The gallery was crowded when I walked through the doors at six that evening. Gerard must have been on the lookout, because he was by my side in seconds. I almost didn’t recognize him in a suit. It was the first time since we met that he wasn’t in casual clothes. The who’s who of Hong Kong must have been in attendance if he wanted to make a good impression. He looked gorgeous, but I didn’t voice that out loud.

     “Thanks for coming, Niall,” he said, grabbing me in a bro hug. “I know you’d rather be somewhere else tonight.”

     “Actually, you’re wrong. Celebrating with you is exactly where I want to be right now.”

     Gerard smiled. “I’m glad.”

     He took my arm and we made a slow circuit of the gallery, stopping occasionally so he could respond to the many well-wishers. More than half of the artwork had a Sold sticker beside the title, and I imagined they’d be completely gone by the end of the night. This exhibit’s theme was Tanka boat people, the gypsies of the sea, according to the printed handout describing Gerard’s current pieces. The origins of these people could be traced back to the Tang Dynasty when local fishermen chose to escape war by settling on their vessels. The images showed typical family scenes in an atypical home. Toothless men sharing a meal with their younger, more virile counterparts, women washing their hair, breastfeeding, stir-frying vegetables in woks over hot coals, children playing with strings and buttons they’d turned into toys, piles of fish, some still leaping in the air, while others were gutted and ready for delivery.

     They were starkly realistic but tempered by the ink wash painting, his chosen medium for this particular exhibit. The goal was to capture the spirit of the subject beyond the actual image. Gerard had succeeded magnificently, and I would have gladly handed over a check to own a piece for myself if the timing had been better. With my future in doubt, I couldn’t afford to be impulsive. Although my job was secure, and the company had assured me that staying in Hong Kong was my choice, Minister Xiang Guo might refuse to work with anyone else. In truth, I was perfectly suited for this branch, and my transfer back to the States might not be forthcoming if the PRC held sway over the decision. I’d have to wait and see how this all played out before investing in expensive artwork.

     Gerard had promised dinner after the show, so I picked at the finger food and nursed my drink. At the gallery owner’s urging, he wandered away to schmooze potential buyers while I made another round of the room, going from painting to painting. Gerard was an extremely gifted and versatile artist. The murals we’d purchased for the Thailand project were oils and eerily futuristic, nothing at all like these meticulous inks that had an old-fashioned vibe. Minister Guo would be a fool to reject him because of finances.

     “I’ve been given permission to escape,” Gerard said quietly. He’d snuck up behind me and I spun around, startled by the mischievous smile on his face.

     “Don’t you enjoy meeting your buyers in person?” I asked. “Basking in the spotlight seems like the perfect reward for all your hard work.”

     “Not really,” Gerard replied. “I’d rather paint and have someone else do the promo.”

     “That’s refreshing,” I commented. “Most artists enjoy this part more.”

     “Do you know a lot of artists?”

     “I meant artistic types in general,” I said.

     He shook his head. “Not my thing, Are you ready to get out of here?”

     “Where are we going?” I asked. “I’m starving.”

     “You want fancy or down-to-earth good food.”

     “The latter,” I said. “I’m ready to dig into a mountain of crab and shrimp with my fingers.”         “Good deal,” Gerard said. “I know the perfect place.”

     His idea of perfect was the local version of a greasy spoon. We walked into the heart of Kowloon, getting farther away from the tourist traps and weaving through narrow alleys and backstreets. Gerard reached for my hand to help me circumnavigate puddles, and other undesirable droppings, and didn’t let go until we got to our destination. I probably should have untangled our meshed fingers, knowing the culture, but being with a man who cared about my well-being and wasn’t afraid to show it was a welcome change.

     After I came out to my parents in my sophomore year of high school, kisses and hugs just stopped. Maybe they figured if I was old enough to have sex with another guy, I wouldn’t need their affection. It was odd and painful, but at least they hadn’t disowned me, which was what I’d been expecting. Even now, after all these years, they continued to be reserved, preferring to shower me with cards and gifts instead of a pat on the back or a much-needed hug. I was so starved for open displays of affection, I soaked up Gerard’s attention.

Friday Preview: Third Son

 

I'll be posting a short preview of Third Son every Friday until it releases on October 2.   Take advantage of the 30% discount by pre-ordering at NineStar Press. Link is posted at the end of the excerpt. 

Excerpt #1

To make sure I didn’t do something stupid like crawl back to Peter, I turned on my phone, ignoring the multiple missed calls, and pulled out Gerard’s card from where I’d tucked it away in my wallet. I sent a text, letting him know I’d be at the opening tomorrow and would like some private time to go over a proposal. It was almost midnight at this point, and I hadn’t expected a reply, so I was astounded when my phone rang. I thought it was Peter, but the caller ID said otherwise.

“Hey,” I said, accepting the call. “I didn’t think I’d hear from you until tomorrow. It’s late.”

“Not for me,” Gerard said. “I do my best work at night.”

“Good to know,” I murmured. “When do you go to bed?”

“Are you offering?”

I smiled ruefully. It was nice to know he was still interested after I’d been so rude the other night. “Don’t get too excited. It’s been a long day and I’d fall asleep the minute my head hit the pillow.”

“I’m encouraged that you’re even considering it.”

“Will wonders never cease,” I replied with a biting edge.

“If you had a fight with that piece of shit, I’ll be more than happy to provide whatever comfort you need.”

I felt guilty for a split second but shoved my righteous feelings away as quickly as they appeared. Gerard knew the score. If we ended up in bed again, it would be to our mutual advantage. There was nothing shady about the guy. He’d been honest with me from the beginning, and he was obviously still interested if he’d sought me out. I wondered what it would be like to date someone who wasn’t ashamed to be seen with me. I pushed those thoughts away. Already I was way ahead of myself, planning a future with Gerard when I hadn’t recovered from the sting of Peter’s rejection. Why did I need another man’s affection to validate me? And why on earth would I pick someone from the same culture whose family would hate everything about me? On the other hand, wasn’t a new love affair the best cure for a broken heart?

“It’s late,” I said, not bothering to address Gerard’s offer. “I’ll see you at the show tomorrow.”

“Let’s plan on dinner afterward,” Gerard suggested. “We can talk about your proposal.”

“Thank you.”

“My pleasure.”

My phone chimed again, and I saw a new text from Peter. I powered off immediately.

Before falling asleep, I revisited my time in Vegas where Gerard and I had first met. It was the day after I’d first noticed him. The owner of the hotel had invited my small group of coworkers to dinner, and we were waiting in the lobby when he appeared with my poolside wet dream by his side.

I couldn’t remember what we had for dinner, but I did recall Gerard’s delight when he learned I’d been schooled in Hong Kong and spoke his language. Gradually, we slipped into Cantonese to avoid the eavesdropping as he plied me with questions regarding the advertising company I represented and its goals. By the end of our meal, we had arrived at an understanding with regards to the business at hand. I was slightly buzzed on good wine, success, and Gerard’s engaging smile.

Someone suggested dancing and we piled into the first available limo. We were at the club in no time. The atmosphere was much like Pandora’s, and I moved away from the group hoping to find a willing partner, not realizing that Gerard followed closely behind.

He wrapped an arm around my waist, and we started to sway in time with the pulsating music that blared throughout the place. I was feeling no pain, hoping to have a good time and stop brooding over my long-distance relationship.

I had felt Gerard’s hands sliding down my ass and drawing me closer. His cock was rock hard and mine responded eagerly. For one mad moment, I thought I was with Peter. The similarities in body language were eerie, but when I stared into the honey-colored eyes, I saw the difference. Gerard looked at me like I was something precious, not a toy he could use and discard whenever the mood struck.

“Hey,” I said, under my breath.

“You’re a great dancer,” he said.

“Thanks.”

“I noticed you at the pool yesterday,” he admitted.

“Same here,” I said. “I especially liked your tats. Are they an original design?”

He nodded. “I’m a dragon.”

I broke into a wide grin. “So am I.”

Gerard looked pleased that a detailed explanation wasn’t going to be needed. We were both born in 1988, a Dragon year, per the Chinese Zodiac, and I already knew the significance. Children born under this sign were considered the luckiest of all, and good fortune was supposed to fall into our laps regardless of our chosen careers. James had clued me in years ago.

This particular dragon continued to stare at me appreciatively, and I couldn’t help responding. His dark hair framed his face in soft waves. I was close enough to smell the faint essence of sandalwood, lemon, and an underlying hint of paint, which made sense knowing what he did for a living. Gerard had a habit of pushing the silky strands behind his ears when they fell forward and blocked his view. I was accustomed to Peter’s meticulous, almost neurotic need to look perfectly put together at all times, but Gerard was far more natural and easygoing. His sex appeal went beyond the surface, and I’d been captivated.

Third Son is available for pre-order. Use the code PREORDER at checkout to get a 30% discount:

https://ninestarpress.com/product/third-son/