Torn by Hank's Lady

Torn by Hank's Lady

Jacob has a great life. He's married to a great woman and they have a sweet little girl named Sarah. However, over the years, Jacob has sought out men to fulfill certain needs that cannot be met by Leah. He feels horrible about cheating on his wife, but cannot seem to let go of his attraction to men. When he meets Paul through work, Jacob desperately tries to resist the attractive and desirable man in front of him; the ultimate exercise in futility. Will Jacob be able to satisfy his needs and walk away or will he continue to play with fire knowing that he's breaking his marriage vows?

Wow! What an interesting story! It's not often that I read stories involving Paul, but this one really caught my attention. Jacob's inner turmoil in trying to do what's right in terms of his marriage and family, but also making himself happy is sad to read. I understand that the cheating aspect may turn some people off (I'm not a big fan of cheating stories either), but I hope you'll give this story a chance. It's still in its early stages (at the time of this post), but I'm sure there are many twists and turns to come. I can't wait to see how this turns out!

~ M

Every Day, Forever by Whitlock-Masen

Every Day, Forever by Whitlock-Masen

Edward and Emmett have been together since their senior year in college and things couldn't be better. They have a great life together and are happy and in love. On this particular day they're on their way to a family reunion, and while Edward likes Emmett's family, he finds it all very overwhelming. However, Edward tries to put some of his discomfort aside because he knows how much family means to Emmett. Edward believes this trip is to spend time with family, but Emmett has a special surprise in store for the man he loves.

I have no idea how I missed this story! I've been a fan of Whitlock-Masen since I read their incredible story, Marked, but somehow overlooked this gem. I like that Edward and Emmett are an established couple who know each other inside and out. The interactions between Edward, Emmett and the many McCarty family members is touching and made me feel like I was right there in story enjoying the family BBQ and catching up with friends. There were a few moments that absolutely warmed my heart and even made me a little misty-eyed. lol

I can't say enough about Every Day, Forever and would highly recommend reading this lovely story. It's definitely one of my favorites!

~ M

Pain Management by Discordia81

UPDATE (2015): This fanfiction story was pulled from fanfiction.net and published under the same name in Dreamspinner Press' Dr. Feelgood anthology. The author's name is Brigham Vaughn.

Pain Management by Discordia81

Edward suffers from chronic migraines and has exhauasted almost every kind of treatment. Desperate for relief, he turns to massage therapy. Jasper is one of the best in his field. Through his strong hands, he is able to relax and invigorate his clients. When Edward comes to him for help, he is challenged not only professionally, but also physically and emotionally for the suffering man. Will he be able to keep his attraction to Edward in check?

This is a great story filled to the brim with UST. I loved reading the various interactions between Jasper and Edward and how they soon begin to rely on each other for comfort and companionship. Very enjoyable and recommended!

~ M

Guest Post: Lily Velden's Romanticism, Reality & Hope

In anticipation of the release of Lily Velden's latest book, The Race is On: Book 2 How the Light Gets In on August 9, 2013, Lily was kind enough to share her thoughts in a guest post.

*~*~*

My eldest son always sends me the most interesting quotes.

They are often challenging, divisive, and thought provoking. They make me really stop and think about what it is I truly believe and think.

Sometimes they make me uncomfortable. 

Sometimes they shock me. 

And sometimes, I downright rebel at their sagacity. 

Like the quote below.

Like any creative soul, I’d like to believe the ideas, images, artworks etc., I create are truly unique and new. I don’t want to think I got the idea from somewhere, or someone else. 

But the truth is we do. 

Whether it was a glorious sunset over an exotic beach, a visit to a historic site, or a line we heard in a movie or read in a book, usually there was a “something” that sparked the flame in us that took “it” from a flicker to a flame to a raging inferno.

Eternal Beloved by soulmateficwriter

Eternal Beloved by soulmateficwriter

After Jasper passes away, Edward is, obviously, extremely distraught. He's lost his soulmate and his other half. Although he's enjoying his time in heaven and has accepted the fact that it was his time, Jasper can't help but feel helpless when Edward's pain and grief heightens. So Jasper watches over his husband and encourages him to move on and live. He'll be waiting for Edward when the time comes, but in the meantime, it's imperative that Edward not dwell on his pain and feelings of loss. Will Edward be able to move forward or will he remain locked in his grief and sadness?

This story is lovely. Although the overall subject matter is sad, there is the sweet twinge of hope that soulmateficwriter (formerly marriedmyedward) successfully conveyed. I knew that one day Edward and Jasper would be reunited, but until that point, Edward had to move forward, live and love once again.

One aspect of the story that really struck a chord with me was the use of Edward and Jasper's dog, Truce, as a liaison of sorts between the living (Edward) and the spirit world (Jasper). I can think of many instances in which my own dogs have looked off into space as if having a conversation with someone who obviously isn't there. I always figured it was a loved one or guardian angel watching over me, so seeing that in this story brought a smile to my face.

Definitely check out this one shot! It's so worth it! :D

~ M

I See You by CrystalMichelle

I See You by CrystalMichelle

No one ever notices Edward. He finds it easier to keep to himself and focus on his school work because he's extremely around people and has difficulty with social norms. However, when he discovers a lone guitar player performing on campus in between classes, he's enchanted. Every day he watches the enigmatic musician until the man notices him.

This is such a sweet story! It warms my heart just thinking about it! Edward, in all his nerdy glory, is adorable as he over-analyzes every glance, smile and interaction with his crush. Jasper, on the other hand, is just as shy and lonely, but finds a kindred spirit in Edward. I highly recommend this story for those enjoy something light, fluffy and fun!

~ M

Of Jealousy and Everlasting Love by Mrs. Agget

Of Jealousy and Everlasting Love by Mrs. Agget

As Nasir and Agron are enjoying a night out with friends, things take a scary turn. A man, who refuses to listen to the fact that the kindhearted Nasir is already taken, brings out the dark and ugly side of Agron's personality: jealousy and hotheadedness. In order to protect what's his, Agron must defend his love and their relationship.

I'm new to the Spartacus fandom, but I've watched numerous youtube videos featuring characters Agron and Nasir. I must say they are absolutely adorable! I really enjoyed this AU look at their relationship. As always, the MCs love is so strong that you can't help but smile and say "aww". I would definitely recommend giving this story a try. Mrs. Agget always produces great work and this is definitely no exception!

~ M