Weekend Writing Warriors ~ Better Get Packing

September 4, 2016 by Alexis Duran

Greetings and welcome to another round of Weekend Writing Warriors.

I’m forging ahead with a scene from my new release, Gryffon Hall. Wryler has just found out that he’s been betrothed to a stranger, the notorious Lord Aeric Rouchet. The arrangement is very advantageous for Wryler’s father, but that’s cold comfort to Wryler. The “they” in the first sentence is Wryler’s father and a government minister.

***

They both smiled broadly, completely unconcerned with Wryler’s feelings or the terrifying fate they’d bound him to.

Wryler lifted his chin and put back his shoulders. “And when is the ceremony set to occur? Sometime in the summer?” he asked, mind racing. There was still a chance he could talk to Rouchet and explain that Wryler had no interest in marrying him, that he loved—or at least was fond of—another. Maybe MacFarlane would reject the Arsburry offer and Wryler’s father could be persuaded to reconsider—

“Seven days hence at Gryffon Hall. Lord Rouchet has already taken his leave in order to prepare his household. You’re to follow in three days. Better get packing.”

***

Fated to be born the useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the scoundrel he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

Buy on Amazon

***

This post is part of an ongoing blog hop hosted by Weekend Writing Warriors. Every Sunday, participating authors post eight to ten sentences from a published work or perhaps their current work in progress. Then we hop to our fellow warriors’ blogs and check out all the fabulous fiction that’s happening! I heartily invite you to participate as a reader, writer, or both. It’s a great way to discover your next favorite book. Click here or use the address: http://www.wewriwa.com

My Sexy Saturday ~ Barricade the Door

August 27, 2016 by Alexis Duran

Welcome to My Sexy Saturday! If you’re looking to cool off, this is probably not the place to be. However, if you’re looking for a little spice in your fiction, a little sweet and sexy to start your day, then you’re definitely in the right place. This week’s theme is My Sexy Beast. I’m sharing from my m/m fantasy Gryffon Hall, which is coming out this Tuesday! Gryffon Hall is inspired by the fairy tales Beauty and the Beast and, of course, The Griffin.

In this scene, Wryler has arrived at the foreboding home of his mysterious fiancée, Lord Aeric Rouchet. Wryler heard many dark tales about his husband-to-be during the journey to Gryffon Hall and is experiencing an advanced case of pre-wedding jitters.

***

Wryler tensed, hearing each footfall as it drew closer. He was close to bursting with tension when the steps slowed and stopped before his door. Was Rouchet going to burst in and take what was not yet legally his? Wryler quieted his ragged breaths, and the boots moved on, but stopped again only a few steps down. The door next to Wryler’s opened and slammed shut, and then Wryler heard no more. Was Rouchet right next door? Wryler stood up and pressed his ear to the wall, but the thick stone gave up no secrets.

He pushed back and shook his head. Of course husband and husband might be expected to have adjoining rooms. The thought of Rouchet so close sent prickles all along Wryler’s skin. He nearly yelped when a tiny pinhole of light appeared in the wall. He moved down the wall and discovered a door built to blend right into the paneling.

How awful! Rouchet could spring out at him at any time. Wryler crouched down and peeked through the keyhole. All he could see was a similar keyhole about four feet away. The small passage had been built into the stone wall, and he guessed a similar door led into Rouchet’s room, if that was indeed Rouchet lurking on the other side of it. After a few minutes with no indication of movement or sound, the light went out.

Wryler crept back to bed and slid under the covers. Well, that was that. He’d never sleep again. He’d have to barricade the door. Knowing he could be jumped on and ravaged at any time… He tossed and turned, but his gaze kept returning to the invisible door. Willing it to stay shut. Willing it to burst open. How ridiculous he was being! He’d have to get used to it, obviously. That was the fate of a married man whose spouse was also a lord and a monster.

No, just an ordinary man. Wryler flopped onto his back and stared at the ceiling. Exhausted from the trip, he did sleep, and dreamt of a winged shadow creeping in through the small door and spreading its great weight across his helpless body. Feathers brushed his skin. Fur slid between his legs and stroked his cock. He couldn’t move as claws lightly explored his flesh.

His legs were forced apart, and the monstrous member he’d been warned of pushed its way into him, opening, opening, delving into him until he knew he would be torn in two.

He woke up panting, gripped not by the icy talons of terror, but a hot and searing arousal. Again and again his hand traveled to wrap around his stiff cock. Near dawn he relented and stroked himself to a quick and violent release, refusing to think of Rouchet’s hard body, chiseled jaw, and flashing green eyes. At last the shadow retreated, and Wryler fell into a dreamless sleep.

***

Gryffon Hall ~ Release date August 30th

Useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the scoundrel he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

***

Don’t forget to continue the hop at My Sexy Saturday for more sexy snippets!

Seductive Studs ~ In The Interest of Science

August 15, 2016 by Alexis Duran

How bad can Monday be when it starts out with some Seductive Studs? Welcome to the blog hop that celebrates m/m romance in all its many glorious facets. This week I’m sharing from a scene in Gryffon Hall where Lennox Arsburry–the man Wryler expected to marry until ambition and financial arrangements intervened– visits Wryler in order to bemoan their fate, and perhaps get a little revenge for being thrown over. Not that it was Wryler’s fault!

***

Looking at Lennox set Wryler’s teeth on edge. The man represented all Wryler had dreamed of and now would never have: peace and quiet, civilized company, scholarship, and an unobtrusive relationship without all the alarming passion that barbarians like Rouchet stirred up.

“I don’t think Rouchet is exactly a fiend,” Wryler said, hearing the hesitation in his own voice.

“That’s because you’ve lived a sheltered life here in your tower.” Lennox sat up straighter, eyes gleaming as he warmed to his subject. “I’ve been speaking with some of the traders who travel as far as Gryffon Hall now and again. You should hear their tales! Strange creatures inhabit the borderlands, and Rouchet is among the strangest. The man is a brute. A monster. After a few months in his bed, you’ll be no use to any ordinary man.”

“What on earth are you dithering on about?” Wryler stood and paced. “Rouchet is an ordinary man. Just rather overgrown and lacking in etiquette, is all.” Wryler did have an idea of what Lennox was referencing, and the crude suggestion brought a flush to his cheeks and vivid images to his tired mind.

“Why, he’ll split you in two! I wonder how he’ll manage it without killing you? I’d be interested in observing his methods, if only in the interest of science.”

“Stop teasing me, Lenn. Don’t I have enough woe in my life without your…lurid imaginings?” Wryler’s body reacted, locking up tight, the threatened orifice clenching in defense. If Lennox had been painful, how horrible would the sexual act be with a man of Rouchet’s girth?

“Thank the gods for alcohol,” Lennox droned on, clearly enjoying Wryler’s distress. “On your wedding night, try to relax and imagine you’re with me. Maybe you’ll survive it, though I doubt it will ever be pleasurable. Ah, poor Wryler. What a waste.”

***

Gryffon Hall ~ Release date August 30, 2016

Useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the scoundrel he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

***

***

Don’t forget to continue the hop for more steamy m/m goodness at Seductive Studs. Romance. Hot guys. Yum.

Weekend Writing Warriors ~ Out the Window

July 24, 2016 by Alexis Duran

Happy Sunday, Merry Summer, Good Day. Welcome to Weekend Writing Warriors, the blog hop where a bunch of really awesome writers share their work in ten sentences or less. I barely made the deadline today, being all caught up in weed pulling and edits, which are kind of similar if you think about it. No? Maybe I’ve been out in the sun too long.

And so to the business at hand. I’m sharing from my upcoming release, Gryffon Hall, an m/m fantasy inspired by the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. I’ve jumped ahead from where we left off. It’s the morning after the feast and Wryler, still in his bed, is feeling the affects of too much wine. Unbeknownst to him, the wheels of his fate kept turning while he slept it off.

***

The door burst open and Wryler’s father marched in, followed closely by his first minister, Fenwale Cook. They were both smiling, which made Wryler want to leap from the bed and throw himself out the window. No good ever came from his father smiling.

“Still lounging in bed, I see,” Lord Glimmerveen said in a booming voice. “You did well at the feast last night, so I won’t hold it against you, not on this fine morning. Isn’t it a fine morning, Wryler?” Lord Glimmerveen stood with his hands on his hips, breathing deeply on the wide-sodden funk of Wryler’s room.

“I wouldn’t know, Father, for as you noted, I’m still in bed.” He glared at the intruders, but they didn’t seem to notice. Instead they drew closer and hovered over him as if he were sitting on a couch in his father’s study, dressed and presentable instead of miserable in his nightshirt.

***

Gryffon Hall ~ Release date August 30, 2016

Useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the barbarian he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

***

***

This post is part of an ongoing blog hop hosted by Weekend Writing Warriors. Every Sunday, participating authors post eight to ten sentences from a published work or perhaps their current work in progress. Then we hop to our fellow warriors’ blogs and check out all the fabulous fiction that’s happening! I heartily invite you to participate as a reader, writer, or both. It’s a great way to discover your next favorite book. Click here or use the address: http://www.wewriwa.com

Seductive Studs ~ A More Obedient Husband

June 19, 2016 by Alexis Duran

Time to start the week off right with Seductive Studs, the blog hop that celebrates m/m romance. This week, I wanted to share some tender love scene, but I have this tendency to keep my guys at odds, no matter how much they love each other. So here’s Wryler and Aeric from Gryffon Hall making up after their first fight. Aeric speaks first ~

“Now it’s time for your first lesson in docility. Take your clothes off.”

“Now? By myself?”

“Yes, now and by yourself. I’m going to sit on the bed and watch.” Aeric walked to the high mattress, plopped down and crossed his arms.

Wryler plucked at the buttons on his shirt. Although Aeric frequently told him he was beautiful, Wryler didn’t believe it and still felt shy about his slender body. Wryler preferred to have Aeric peel his clothes off in a tight embrace, preferably beneath the covers.

“You want to embarrass me as punishment?” he asked.

“You should not be ashamed of your lovely body. I want you to get over your shyness.”

“That will never happen,” Wryler said as he undid his cuffs. He kept his eyes down as he unhooked his high collar and pulled off his vest. He expected to shrivel in dismay but when he glanced up and saw the hungry look in Aeric’s eyes, his body flushed with heat. Just his luck he would be to the liking of a monster.

“But I hope you never get over your tendency to blush,” Aeric said, voice husky. Wryler tottered a bit removing his boots and some of his earlier pique returned. Why was he submitting to Aeric when he should be down in the library learning how to defeat him? He hurried his motions, pulling off his shirt and stepping out of his trousers with impatience.

“There. Happy?”

“Very. Uncross your arms and stop scowling. Ah, Wryler, I will never get tired of looking at you.”

“But I will get tired of standing here naked.”

“Hmmm. While you stand there, think about how you can be a more obedient husband.”

Wryler snorted and thought about the opposite, about how he might be the one in control someday.

***

Gryffon Hall ~ coming in Summer 2016!

Useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the barbarian he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

***

For more sexy romance, don’t forget to continue the hop at Seductive Studs, where love wins, every week.

My Sexy Saturday ~ Acceptable Behavior

June 11, 2016 by Alexis Duran

Welcome to My Sexy Saturday. This week’s theme is Sexy in Time and let me tell you, I thought I had nothin’. But then it occurred to me that my m/m fairy tale, Gryffon Hall, happens outside of time, in ye olde fairy tale realm of knights, castles and dark, uncharted forests full of magical beasts. So that counts, right? Anyway, here are seven paragraphs from my soon-to-be-released novel, Gryffon Hall.

***

Rouchet swooped in for a kiss, his wine moistened lips covering and consuming Wryler’s. He was surprisingly gentle, this barbarian, his tongue easing into Wryler’s mouth slowly but firmly.

What’s happening? What’s going on here, exactly? Men other than Lennox had kissed Wryler. Large rough men. Stable hands. Traveling knights. Many had attempted to steal more than a kiss and while pleasant, Wryler wasn’t often tempted for more. But now, now he sensed Rouchet hesitating, waiting for a sign from Wryler, for permission to unleash the lust he obviously held back.

This really isn’t acceptable behavior. But Rouchet would soon be gone and they’d never see each other again. What harm could come of a little kiss?

Wryler responded, pushing back with his tongue, his body arching against Rouchet’s.

Rouchet growled and plunged in harder, driving Wryler against the wall. A cascade of tiny explosions fired beneath Wryler’s skin and he was instantly and embarrassingly hard. It had never been like this with Lennox. Wryler always required coaxing and coercing. Now he felt as if he could be the one in charge, tearing at Rouchet’s clothing and demanding to taste every inch of the lord’s enormous body.

Wryler kept his hands by his sides and balled into fists, not trusting himself to touch Rouchet with more than lips.

Rouchet had no such restraint and ran one large hand down Wryler’s back all the way to his buttocks, which he squeezed hard. Wryler gasped as Rouchet seized him with both hands and pulled him in tight, crushing Wryler’s poor swollen cock against his unyielding thigh. The pressure felt too good. Wryler wanted to climb Rouchet, to mount this monster of a man and ride him like….like…words fled him as he cried out for this unexpected delight.

***

Gryffon Hall ~ coming in Summer 2016!

Useless fourth son of the Lord of Glimmerveen, Wryler dreams of getting married and escaping the rustic confines of his father’s castle. A wealthy merchant’s son seems to hold the key to Wryler’s safe if somewhat dreary future. However, the arrival of a mysterious stranger on the eve of Wryler’s betrothal sends his plans into disarray and Wryler finds himself traded off in marriage to one of the most notorious rogues in the land.

Is Lord Aeric Rouchet the barbarian he appears to be, or is he something much worse? Separated from his family and thrust into a strange and dangerous new life at the foreboding Gryffon Hall, Wryler must unravel the secret of his husband’s shadowed life and defeat the curse which threatens not only his growing affection for the barbarian in his bed, but the lives of everyone the Lord of Gryffon Hall is sworn to protect.

Don’t forget to continue the hop at My Sexy Saturday for more sexy snippets!

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