Happy Holidays!

Merry Christmas!

Welcome Leona Windwalker and her debut novel, Sol's Solstice!

Join me in welcoming my good friend, Leona Windwalker and her debut novel, Sol's Solstice! Thank you for joining me, Leona, and congratulations on your debut release! For those of you who don't know Leona, here's a little about her.

Leona is a longtime staunch supporter of human rights and environmental causes. Her favourite genre to read is M/M fiction and she particularly enjoys science fiction, fantasy, and action/suspense subgenres—especially if they have a nice seasoning of romance. She has far too many books on her Kindle, has overloaded her phone with even more and, when not reading, writing, being driven to distraction by her children, or being overlorded by her three cats, can be found trying to locate the portal that the sock monster uses to steal socks from her dryer.

I have the pleasure of knowing a little about your terrific children. Would you care to share a little about them with everyone else?

I have two children who are both LGBT. My son is an avid gamer and is mad for Hello Kitty, make up, clothes, and shoes (especially boots). My daughter is studying art and graphic design and is an aspiring author. They can drive me crazy, but I’d be lost without them. After all, they help pamper the feline overlords.

Your feline overlords sound scary. Tell us what inspired you to become an author.

I learned to read at the age of four and became an avid reader. I never thought much about the fact that a person sat down and wrote what I read until the about the age of twelve. Then, one day, one of the neighbours was having a yard sale and I bought a book by Andre Norton. Of course, I immediately stuck my nose in the book and couldn't put it down. I even read it at a restaurant while we waited for our dinner. Not even a week after I finished it, I was surprised to see an article about female writers and their struggle for recognition. Whoa! Andre was a woman! At the publisher's insistence, she wrote under a male pen name because people did not take female writers seriously. It made me take a hard look at the names on book spines from then on.

I looked at the names on my own books. I looked at the names at the bookstore. I looked at the library. I thought, hey, women can write books! Women can write GREAT books. I could write a book! That was that. I knew what I wanted to do. I wanted to become a writer and I rolled my eyes at the whole “women can’t” thing. I take attitudes like that as a gauntlet. Guess what? Women can write, and write books that are taken seriously.

The tag line for Sol's Solstics is Sol finds that light can indeed shine in his world. Indeed, this is an uplifting story full of hope and a happily ever after. Tell us what inspired you to write the story.

I wanted to share a story that held a mirror up to contemporary society. Sol’s story is a work of fiction, but much of what happens to him is a sad reality for too many people. Prejudice is real, as is homophobic violence, and quack psychiatry. But just as there is evil in the world, there is so much more good. I have experienced the innate goodness of people, so I know it’s out there. I wanted Sol to find this goodness and his happily ever after along the way; and wanted to write a story of hope and encouragement.

I understand that you plan not one but two sequels to the story. At the risk of revealing spoilers, can you tell us a little about the sequels?

I’m currently writing the sequel, Ben’s Beginning. Sol and Ben are twins, but Ben is ::gasp:: straight. He’s wrestling with guilt over things that happened in Sol’s Solstice and his own traumas about what happened to him along the way. He’s facing his demons, which include himself. He’s also experiencing a rebirth of sorts as he comes to understand sexuality and gender identity can be much more fluid than he thought; and he meets someone very special along the way who challenges his conceptions on both.

Book three features Ben’s roommate from college, Andy. He comes from a privileged background, which comes crashing down around his ears. It’s a riches to rags love story. You’ll have to wait to find out more, but I will share that there will be a dashing soldier in his future.

Wow! These stories sound great! Thanks for joining me today, Leona. I can't wait to read the sequels and hope to see again soon! It's been great having you on my blog!

Sol's Solstice is available from Rune Tree Press 

on Amazon and Smashwords

Rate and review Sol's Solstice on Goodreads and Amazon

Request an autograph through Authorgraph

About Sol's Solstice

Sol is used to flying under his family's radar, unless focusing unwanted attention away from his more outgoing, older twin. The day comes when he pays a steep price for attempting to shield his brother. Running for his life, he is nearly run down by a car driven by Seth. Can Seth help Sol find his way back from the darkness?

Find Leona Walker on Goodreads and on Facebook

Neil Gaiman's Eight Rules of Writing

Neil Gaiman

National Coming Out Day!

Every year on National Coming Out Day, we celebrate coming out as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) or as an ally. On Oct. 11, 2014, we will mark the 26th anniversary of National Coming Out Day.

26 years ago, on the anniversary of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, we first observed National Coming Out Day as a reminder that one of our most basic tools is the power of coming out. One out of every two Americans has someone close to them who is gay or lesbian. For transgender people, that number is only one in 10.

Coming out STILL MATTERS. When people know someone who is LGBTQ, they are far more likely to support equality under the law. Beyond that, our stories can be powerful to each other.

In honor of National Coming Out Day, HRC wants to honor all who have come out as LGBT or as a straight ally for equality – that takes bravery, and we commend you. Sign HRC's pledge to LIVE YOUR TRUTH and come out for equality in front of your friends and family. Together, we can proudly live out in the open.

Every person who speaks up changes more hearts and minds, and creates new advocates for equality.

For more on coming out, visit HRC's Coming Out Center or check out the resources below. Learn about Coming Out Day History of National Coming Out Day 

Living Openly

However you identify, HRC and its Coming Out Project hope these guides help you meet the challenges and opportunities that living openly offers to each of us: Find coming out guides and other resources

Are You a Straight Ally?

Check out Coming Out as a Straight Supporter to learn about the emotional spectrum that people typically feel after someone comes out to them and find easy ways to learn more and demonstrate your support for LGBTQ Americans and equality. Download the guide

Project Fierce Chicago - An Anthology to Benefit Homeless LGBT Youth

Thank you so much, Cody, for having me as your guest today. No one can dispute the tragedy of homelessness, especially for our youth, and I'm very happy to be part of this wonderful anthology.

Nobody deserves to be without a home. In collaboration with several authors, Less Than Three Press offers up an anthology of stories about young people who find that home and family are not always where you expect to find them.

All proceeds from this charity anthology will be donated to Project Fierce Chicago.

Project Fierce Chicago's mission is to reduce LGBTQ youth homelessness in Chicago by providing affirming, no-cost transitional housing and comprehensive support services to homeless LGBTQ young adults. PFC also aims to encourage community-building and civic engagement through cooperative living and youth leadership development.

LT3's Project Fierce Chicago charity anthology includes 20 short stories from Aeris, Vicktor Alexander, Talya Andor, C.J. Anthony, Blaine D. Arden, Kayla Bain-Vrba, Sophie Bonaste, Kenzie Cade, Jana Denardo, Alessandra Ebulu, Dianne Hartsock, Leta Hutchins, Caitlin Ricci, Lor Rose, B. Snow, Rin Sparrow, Andrea Speed, Piper Vaughn, Layla M. Wier, and Xara X. Xanakas

Pairings: M/M, F/F, genderqueer

Content: Contains no explicit content.

Available from Less Than Three Press

Family conflicts, abuse and problems at school all contribute to the homeless epidemic in the LGBT youth community. Some find themselves on the street after 'aging out' of foster care, but more and more gay and transgender young people, emboldened by increased acceptance in society, are coming out in their teen years, when they are still reliant on their parents. Sometimes faced with hostility or rejection at home, many teens turn instead to the streets.

John Cerdon, a 22-year-old Filipino, came out to his parents four years ago, leading to friction. He spends most nights sleeping on a friend's floor.

"I'll just say my mother chose my stepfather over me," Cerdon said.

When he has no other option, Cerdon sleeps on the Red Line, where he said he has been robbed twice and assaulted.

While they account for 5 to 10 percent of the youth population, gay and transgender youths are estimated to make up 20 to 40 percent of the young people experiencing homelessness nationally. In Chicago, 11,471 young people between ages 14 and 21 experienced homelessness last year, according to the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless.

"The data on homeless youth is generally poor, and it's worse for LGBTQ," said Nan Roman, president of the National Alliance to End Homelessness, adding to the mix the population of "Q" or "questioning" youths, those who are unsure of their sexual orientation...."  ~~Erin Meyer, Chicago Tribune reporter

Alexis Allegra, associate director of residential programs at Teen Living Programs, confirms the static nature of LGBTQ youth homelessness. “I think this is a consistent problem and it is not something I have seen drastically change one way or another over the six years I have worked here,” Allegra said.

The struggles faced by LGBTQ youth include sexual and physical harassment, as well as stigmatization at school and home, leading them to run away.

“Youth have either been kicked out of their parental homes or have chosen to leave because of the harsh criticism and intolerance they experience,” Allegra said. "They might live at a friend’s house. They might couch surf– staying one place for a few nights and then go to another friend’s house.” ~~Streets of Chicago Chicago LGBTQ Homeless Youth by Raven Icaza

Project Fierce Chicago will provide transitional housing for LGBTQ young people ages 18-25, for an initial term of one year. In addition to living space, food and hygiene products, residents will have access to services aimed at a successful transition to independence, including case management, professional and living skills training and educational support. These services will primarily be provided by dedicated volunteers.

PFC’s aim is to become a largely self-sustaining community through the maintenance of a community garden and an in-house workshop in which staff, volunteers and residents create daily living items such as soap, lotion and household cleaning products with natural ingredients. The house will also have a space in which to showcase the art and creative projects of residents and community members.

Sammy: My story in the Project Fierce Anthology

At fifteen, Sam inadvertently comes out to his parents, but instead of the support he hopes for, they send him to live with his uncle. Unfortunately, the man is even less tolerant of his uniqueness. Rather than change to please his family, feeling unwanted and misunderstood, he runs away to find a better life.

But the crowded city isn't kind to a young man with no home and no prospects of work. When this story opens, Sam has been on the streets for several years when one of his 'regulars' begins to take more than a business interest in him. For the first time Sammy dreams of more than a bleak lonely future, but does he dare hope that someone like him could find their happily ever after?

Excerpt:

John tossed his apron in the hamper then slipped out the back of the shelter into the dark alley and hurried around to the brightly lit street in front. Couples were enjoying the last of the day's warmth on the waterfront and he envied them as he headed toward his apartment complex. His pulse sped up as he neared the Morrison Bridge. Though it was after nine, traffic was still heavy on the bridge and also along Naito Parkway.

Passing under the bridge, he glanced down the bike path running alongside it, searching for Sammy. His heart leaped to his throat on seeing the familiar figure huddled on the grass, arms wrapped around his knees, looking alone and dejected. John ached to go to him, but would Sam want to talk to him? They weren't really friends. John paid for his company.

A soft sob floated on the night air and plunged straight into John's heart. He hurried over to Sam, then stood biting his lips, not sure what to say.

"What do you want?" Sammy's voice sounded tired, rough with tears.

"Do you need help? Can I do anything?"

Sam raised his head, blue eyes shimmering at him through wet lashes. Recognition sparked in the beautiful depths, then they widened. "You." Sam struggled to his feet, hugging his bare arms across his chest against the chill creeping up from the river. "Sorry, I have to cancel on you. I'm closed for the night. Try again tomorrow."

He brushed past John and started down the bike path. John's heart thumped painfully. "Sam?"

The young man stopped and swiveled abruptly. The lamplight caught his expression, a hint of fear, anger; the light clearly showing a cut lip and the dark swelling of a bruise on his ivory cheek. John clamped his lips shut on a murmur of pity, noting he held his left arm as if it hurt.

Helplessness swept through John. "Let me help you. I can make you a cup of coffee at least. And dinner, if you're interested. I make great spaghetti."

Doubt crossed Sam's pretty face and the end of his pink tongue nudged the cut on his lip, twisting John's heart. Impulsively, he touched Sam's arm. "Did someone hurt you?"

Sam stared at his hand, not answering. John was grateful he didn't yank his arm away. Finally Sam nodded.

Anger flashed through John, but he didn't want to scare Sam off with questions. "Come home with me," he urged softly. "I won't ask anything of you. I want to help and… I could use the company tonight."

Blue eyes glanced upwards, vulnerable. But then Sam blinked and mischief curled his lips. John winced at his false bravado. "Whatever you say, hon." Sam hooked their arms and started along the wide path following the riverfront. After only a few steps in the chill evening air, John shrugged out of his coat and put it around Sam's shoulders. Sam looked amused but pulled the coat tighter around his thin cotton shirt. "Thanks."

John's heart pattered. He liked Sam's arm linked with his. A few people gave them curious glances, but for the most part, they were ignored. He wished the circumstances were better, that maybe Sam was his boyfriend and they were walking home from the movies. They reached his street and his pulse quickened when he led Sam to his apartment.

LT3's Project Fierce Chicago charity anthology includes 20 short stories from Aeris, Vicktor Alexander, Talya Andor, C.J. Anthony, Blaine D. Arden, Kayla Bain-Vrba, Sophie Bonaste, Kenzie Cade, Jana Denardo, Alessandra Ebulu, Dianne Hartsock, Leta Hutchins, Caitlin Ricci, Lor Rose, B. Snow, Rin Sparrow, Andrea Speed, Piper Vaughn, Layla M. Wier, and Xara X. Xanakas

Pairings: M/M, F/F, genderqueer

Content: Contains no explicit content.

Available from Less Than Three Press

Love is Love

Cover Reveal! Holding on to Hope by Sid Love

Sid Love takes over my blog! 

Long ago (2007), at the tender age of sixteen, Sid set a goal for himself: to become an author. Now, at the still tender age (at least in my book) of twenty-two, he has accomplished that goal. Join me in welcoming Sid Love and his debut novella, Holding on to Hope. Congratulations, Sid! You're an inspiration to burgeoning young authors everywhere!

Bradley Parker has waited twenty years for Mr. Right, and on Valentine’s Day, he finally finds him. It’s love at first sight, and Brad even loses his virginity to the man of his dreams. But when he wakes up the next morning unable to remember anything—even what the man looked like—his best friend, Leslie, is convinced he imagined the whole thing. 

Brad knows he didn’t make up the best night of his life, but he has no idea of the danger he’s putting himself in as he struggles to recall the details of his perfect man. His search may lead him to parts of New York City he never dreamed existed and a war being waged in the shadows.

Now available for pre-order at Dreamspinner Press

About Sid:

Sid grew up in one of the busiest cities in the world, Mumbai, listening to the excerpts of Indian epics read nightly by his father. If you ask him, he would tell you that he isn't obsessed with books. Or movies. Or TV shows. Addicted would be a better word. He is a die-hard fan of Jane Austen's romance novels and rereads them time and again. Inspired and ambitious, in 2007 when he reached the tender age of sixteen, he decided he would make his lifelong dream come true--to become an author.

Find Sid on Facebook and on Twitter @FatefulMercy or simply email him with comments, questions, or simply share what's on your mind at SidLovetheWriter@live.in 

Edgar Allan Poe... Sometimes I'm terrified of my heart...

...of its constant hunger for whatever it is it wants.

The way it stops and starts.

Happy New Year!