Tour Stop: The Lotus Shoes by Jane Yang

 

The Lotus Shoes : A Novel

By Jane Yang

On Sale Date: January 7, 2025

ISBN: 9780778310679

Park Row Hardcover

Price: $28.99 USD

About the Book: 

A muizai is a mistress’s shadow. You are there to do her bidding… 

19th Century China. Tightly bound feet, or "golden lilies," are the mark of an honorable woman. When Little Flower is sold as a maidservant to Linjing, a daughter of the prominent Fong family, she clings to the hope that her golden lilies will someday lead her out of a life of slavery. 

Not only does Little Flower have bound feet—uncommon for a muizai—but she is gifted at embroidery, a skill associated with women of fortune. Resentful of her talents, Linjing does everything in her power to prevent Little Flower from escaping. But when scandal strikes the Fongs, both women are cast out to the Celibate Sisterhood, where Little Flower’s talents catch the eye of a nobleman, threatening not only her improved status, but her life—the Sisterhood punishes disobedience with death. And if Linjing finds out, will she sabotage Little Flower to reclaim her power, or will she protect her? 

Richly atmospheric and profoundly moving, The Lotus Shoes is an empowering tale of two women from opposite sides of society, and their extraordinary journey of sisterhood, betrayal, love and triumph.

Buy Links

HarperCollins:

https://www.harpercollins.com/products/the-lotus-shoes-jane-yang?variant=42182206455842

Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/Lotus-Shoes-Novel-Jane-Yang/dp/0778310671

Barnes & Noble:

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-lotus-shoes-jane-yang/1145107408?ean=9780778310679

Bookshop.org:

https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-lotus-shoes-original-jane-yang/21335528?ean=9780778310679

 

Excerpt from The Lotus Shoes by Jane Yang. Copyright © 2025 by Jane Yang. Published by Park Row Books.

One

Little Flower

 

I sat shivering on a low stool in our farmhouse kitchen. The frosty air stung my cheeks and chilled my hands and feet until they hurt. To warm up, I rubbed my arms and legs. Though it never snowed in southern China, this winter in the sixth year of Emperor Guangxu’s reign felt brutally cold. Normally, I would still be curled beneath our patched quilt, but my aa noeng had woken me at first light.

“We are going on an adventure today,” she announced, turning to me with a basin of boiling water. For the first time in months, her thin, pale face broke into a smile. But it wasn’t a proper sparkling smile, like the ones she used to shower on me before my aa de died. This smile looked stiff, and her eyes remained dull.

“I’m taking you to Canton City,” she continued. “Farmer Tang will give us a ride on his cart.” She poured cold water into the basin. I squealed, clapping with delight. I had never been to Canton City, but I had heard all about it from traveling storytellers. Peddlers prowled the streets, selling sugared plums, sweet buns and roasted chestnuts. My belly grumbled at the thought of them, reminding me that I had not eaten since yesterday’s bowl of watery congee. The storytellers also boasted of traveling acrobats, men who swallowed live snakes, and puppet shows.

“Is Little Brother coming too?” I asked.

“He is too young,” she said. “I’ve sent him to our neighbor for the day. This is a mother-and-daughter trip.”

“Why are we going?” “Little girls should not ask questions,” she chided. “Good girls keep quiet, follow rules and obey grown-ups.” Her tone was mild, but her face sagged with misery, frightening me into silence.

She knelt in front of me, cradling my golden lilies in her palms. “Do you remember why I started binding your feet when you were only four?” she asked.

“Because…because…” I shook my head. With a heavy sigh she explained, “Other six-year-old girls in our village wouldn’t start foot-binding until now. Some farming families might even wait until their daughter is seven or eight, if they’re desperate for an extra worker around the house. But that is risky. Do you know why?”

I shook my head again. “The bones might already be too stiff to be shaped. I love you so much that I bound your feet two years ago, as though you’re a little lady, to make sure you get perfect golden lilies so you can be like Consort Yao Niang. Do you remember her story?”

“I do!” Eager to impress her, I merrily recited the bedtime tale she had often told me. “Once upon a time, before the Manchu invaded and when China was cut up into lots of little kingdoms, like a patchwork quilt, there lived an emperor called Li Yu. He loved to see new things. One day he asked his many, many wives to surprise him with a new dance. Everyone tried but no one was good enough except Yao Niang. She wrapped her feet into crescents and danced on her toes!”

“What else?” she quizzed.

I frowned.

She prompted, “The emperor was so impressed that he promoted her to Royal Imperial Consort—”

“Oh!” With a bounce I finished her sentence, “So no other wife could boss Yao Niang around except the empress. All the ladies of the court copied her and soon rich girls across the country started to do the same. Now all re-respectable girls have bound feet. And the most loving mothers make sure their daughters have perfect four-inch golden lilies.”

I expected the rest of my speedy answer would earn praise, especially since I had only stumbled on two characters, but Aa Noeng’s lips trembled. I reached out to hug her, but she shook her head as she straightened her back and smoothed her faded tunic-blouse, ou.

“Even the poorest boy might hope to pass the imperial exams and become a mandarin if he is clever and studious,” she said, “but a girl’s only chance for a better life is through her golden lilies. This is my priceless gift to you. No matter what happens, I want you always to remember how much I love you. You’re my precious pearl. Do you understand?”

“I love you this much too!” I swung my arms behind my back until my palms touched. But she didn’t return my smile.

“Why is it important to have perfect four-inch golden lilies?” she asked.

“To get a good marriage,” I chirped. “Matchmakers and mothers-in-law like tiny feet. Golden lilies are proof of a girl’s goodness.”

“Yes,” she agreed. “Only girls with immense endurance and discipline can get perfect golden lilies. This is what mothersin-law from nice families want for their sons.” She squeezed my hands and asked, “Do you want to marry into a nice family when you grow up?”

“Yes.”

“How do you get four-inch golden lilies?” she asked.

“I must sit very still when you clean my feet and change my bandages.”

“What else?”

“I mustn’t complain when you tighten the bindings.”

“That’s true,” she replied slowly. “But…” After a long pause she said, “You are a big girl now. It’s time you learned to take care of your golden lilies yourself.”

“I’m still little!” I protested, alarmed by her grave tone.

“Watch carefully,” she instructed. She unraveled the binding and eased my left foot into the basin of warm water. She massaged away the dead skin on the sole and between my toes. Next she trimmed my toenails and wrapped my foot in a towel before sprinkling alum onto it.

“Be sure to use a generous amount of alum,” she said. “It wards off sweat and itch.”

She wound a length of clean, dark blue cotton around and around my foot. The pressure increased with each layer until my foot throbbed and my eyes ached with unshed tears. I had to use all my willpower not to groan. She continued to wrap the bindings, much more tightly than usual. I tried to pull my foot away. She gripped it harder. “Stay still,” she ordered.

“Aa Noeng,” I cried. “It hurts too much.”

“Hush,” she said. “One day these golden lilies will bring you a good marriage. You will wear silk and live in a house with tiled floors. Best of all, you will never go hungry again.”

My whimpering faded as she continued to talk about the tasty food that would fill my belly when I become a bride in a wellto-do family. Finally, she eased my foot into my best pair of indigo cotton shoes. She pushed the basin toward me.

“Now you must do the same for your right foot,” she said.

About the Author: 

Jane Yang was born in the Chinese enclave of Saigon and raised in Australia where she grew up on a diet of superstition and family stories from Old China. Despite establishing a scientific career, first as a pharmacist and later in clinical research, she is still sometimes torn between modern, rational thinking and the pull of old beliefs in tales that have been passed down the family. Jane’s family tales are an inspiration for her writing. She writes stories about women in pre-Communist China, exploring power and class struggles, and sometimes with a dash of suspense, spirits and hauntings.

 Social Links

Author Linktree: https://linktr.ee/janeyangauthor

Twitter (X): https://x.com/JaneYangWriting

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janeyangwriting/

Blog Tour Stop/Giveaway: Scars and Secrets

 

Discover Thomas Grant Bruso's Scars and Secrets today.Make sure to enter the tour wide giveaway as the Thomas Grant Bruso will be awarding a $10 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. You can find all the tour stops HERE and make sure to comment on the tour posts for more chances into the giveaway. The tour is sponsored by Goddess Fish Promotions.

SCARS AND SECRETS

Author: Thomas Grant Bruso

GENRE:  LGBT Mystery

Publisher: Nine Star Press

Buy Links: Amazon / BN / Publisher 

Ralph Ashton gets more than he bargained for when police question him about the death of his ex-boyfriend Elijah Ray, whose body is discovered at the edge of the Saranac River.

 

When the local police visit Ralph and ask him about a critical piece of case evidence, Ralph becomes a prime suspect. He sets out to learn what happened to Eli the night he left his apartment and is startled to learn about his former boyfriend’s shady past.

 

As Ralph pursues a dangerous investigation, he discovers things about Eli he did not know while they were together.

 

Ralph’s life starts to unravel when he loses more people close to him as his mother lies in a hospital bed dying of cancer. Is learning about the truth of Eli’s death worth jeopardizing his safety?

Teaser Excerpt:

Excerpt One:

 

The Saranac River empties into the mouth of Lake Champlain and a sliver of late-evening sun shimmies and slices across shavings of broken ice like a school of shiny fish.

 

I straighten the blue-and-white striped silk tie my last boyfriend gifted me and stare out at the early November landscape. The ground is dusted with newly fallen snow, and the river, a swollen malignant serpentine of icy water, snakes through a vista of evergreens and sycamores.

 

I catch my hard stare in the reflection of the large picture window of my therapist’s office.

 

Dr. James Matheson, basketball tall with peacock-blue eyes and warm brown skin, dressed in a rosy-pink dress shirt and charcoal-gray suit, coaxes me back to the present. His voice is butter soft and attractive, musically inclined and bilingual. Spanish on his mother’s side, I think.

 

My thoughts unravel like vines on a branch, disoriented, a broken fuse box with faulty wiring. I blow out a loud breath and turn to the long-legged and handsome therapist, my hands packed in the pockets of my khakis so he won’t see them shake. Men make me nervous and weak-kneed.

 

Dr. Matheson is patient and smiling, waiting for me to speak, to say something, since I’ve been standing in silence for the last fifteen minutes, staring out at the dismal day passing by.

 

I think about my mother who lies in the hospital dying. I’ve just come from visiting her, before my scheduled therapy session. Dr. Matheson wants to discuss it, from his stone silence and sensitive stares.

 

I glance at my wristwatch. I’ve been in Pretty Boy’s office for almost an hour, and I haven’t said much or given the good old doc enough to judge or dislike me or cancel my next session. I am surprised he has not asked me not to come back. Maybe he’ll call County Hospital and admit me to the psych ward on the fourth floor if I open my mouth and let him into my dark, sad life.

 

He does not reach for the phone. He sits poised in the high brown leather chair behind his polished cherry wood desk, with many medical certifications on the wall behind him.

 

He stares across the room at me, grins, keeping a professional manner, waiting for me to give him his money and time’s worth.

 

I drag myself toward the overstuffed leather chair across from his desk and collapse into it, as if it is my home base.

GIVEAWAY:

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AUTHOR Bio and Links:  

Thomas Grant Bruso knew he wanted to be a writer at an early age. He has been a voracious reader of genre fiction since childhood. 

His literary inspirations are Ray Bradbury, Dean Koontz, Stephen King, Jim Grimsley, Karin Fossum, and Joyce Carol Oates. 

Bruso loves animals, reading books, and writing fiction, and prefers Sudoku to crossword puzzles. 

In another life, he was a freelance writer and wrote for magazines and newspapers. In college, he won the Hermon H. Doh Sonnet Competition. Now, he writes and publishes fiction and reviews books for his hometown newspaper, The Press-Republican. 

He lives in upstate New York.

 

Tour Stop/Giveaway: Willful Partners

Willful Parties
Liz Ellyn
Published by: The Wild Rose Press
Publication date: January 1st 2025
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance

Seth is the vibrant bisexual marathoner who sparked the relationship with Kat and Dylan. He remains undeterred in pursuit of their perfect love, even when confronted with a devastating blow. Kat, their sharp-witted pixie, treasures good moments as gifts due to past experiences. She hesitates to wholeheartedly commit based on a deep-rooted fear of heartache and pressing her luck. Dylan exudes irresistible confidence and brilliance and is marked for an impressive political future. However, his internal struggle with identity and career decisions poses a significant hurdle in committing to their love affair.

They share a sizzling three-way passion but are destined to part ways after graduating from their Chicago law school. Legal battles, heart-wrenching losses, and mounting obligations challenge the prospect of reclaiming their love.

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

Author Interview with Liz Ellyn

Tell us about your latest book, who are the main character’s and what can we expect when we pick it up?

Willful Parties is an erotic romance story about Seth, Kat, and Dylan, who are all involved in a throuple, but about to be torn apart after their law school graduation. Dylan is set to move from Chicago to California, creating a critical turning point for their dynamic. Each character is intelligent, driven, and on a path of personal growth, facing challenges that shift their emotional connections.

Kat, in her mid-twenties, becomes the emotional pivot. Her insecurities and past traumas influence her decisions, especially as Dylan prepares to leave. She worries Seth, as a bisexual man, will eventually prioritize another male partner over her, leaving her feeling inadequate. To protect herself, she insists they should cherish the past but move forward as merely friends. Despite this resolve, her attraction to Seth and Dylan remains strong, pulling her back into the relationship’s complexities. She struggles to trust that Dylan’s affection for her is genuine and not an effort to please Seth. After a traumatic event, Dylan’s unwavering support helps Kat through her darkest moments. Their deepening friendship evolves into a profound emotional and sexual connection, reshaping the dynamic of their trio.

Seth, a confident bisexual with a free-spirited attitude, initiated their threesome. Slightly older than Kat and Dylan, he brings life experience and emotional maturity to the group. His commitment to their connection is unshakable, though he learns through a pivotal legal battle (no spoilers here) to value Kat and Dylan as individuals, not just as parts of their threesome. For Seth, Kat is a beautiful, dynamic, and resilient woman whose acceptance of his bisexuality makes her his “unicorn.” Dylan, on the other hand, is Seth’s equal in passion and ambition. There is a striking symmetry in the opposing challenges Seth and Dylan face, but yet they help one another heal and grow.

Dylan, who once strictly identified as gay, has his perceptions challenged after a drunken night when Seth initiates their first threesome. Dylan is hesitant, but ultimately finds himself fully engaged in the experience. His love for Kat forces him to reevaluate his identity, creating confusion as he struggles to acknowledge this shift. Seth’s easy charm and ability to impress Dylan’s politically minded family offer Dylan comfort and stability. It doesn’t hurt that he looks like a blue-eyed California dream.

Their complex dynamic is a testament to love, resilience, acceptance, mutual support, and the power of connection in all its forms. Through legal battles, personal setbacks, and moments of self-discovery, they explore the complexities of love, trust, and identity. 

Tell us about what you are reading at the moment or anticipate reading in the future? Any favorite authors you enjoy reading in your spare time?

I’m a romance enthusiast through and through. I’m always reading or listening to a book. It’s my favorite way to unwind and stay inspired. Audiobooks are my go-to because they fit so seamlessly into my busy lifestyle. Whether I’m walking my dogs, driving, or tackling household chores, I always immerse myself in a great book

This morning, I was listening to the audiobook Lights Out by Navessa Allen. But by the end of the day, I might be diving into my next audiobook, like A Ryan Recollection by Sadie Kincaid. My digital library is constantly evolving!

Some of my favorite authors include: Tiffany Reisz (The Original Sinners Series), Lauren Dane (Brown Family Series), and Shayla Black. I admire how they boldly push boundaries, explore polyamory, and create incredibly spicy, thought-provoking romances.

I make it a point to read at least one new-to-me author every month because I love discovering fresh voices and perspectives. As for tropes, I enjoy a wide variety, except for the miscommunication trope. I gravitate toward stories about adults who handle challenges with maturity and open communication. That said, I appreciate varying levels of heat in romance books. If there’s plenty of emotional tension and connection, I’ll even enjoy a closed-door romance.

Reading is not just a passion for me. It fuels my own writing and keeps my creative spark alive. 

Tell us about your writing day. Do you write every day or only when inspired?

I’m definitely a morning writer. My day starts at 4:00 a.m. listening to audiobooks while I exercise. It’s a great way to fuel my mind and get inspired. Afterward, my creativity often strikes during a hot shower, which feels like my personal brainstorming oasis. One rule I live by? I never write after 9:00 p.m. That’s sacred downtime for me!

I strive to write every day, but life doesn’t always cooperate. Being an author isn’t just about writing. It’s a balance of writing, editing, marketing, and more. On days when the words aren’t flowing, I shift my gears and focus on those other vital aspects of the author’s journey. It keeps me productive and connected to all parts of the craft.

Which book would you recommend for readers to choose first if they’re new-to-you?

All of my books are standalone stories, so you can jump in and start with any title that catches your eye. If you’re drawn to taboo romance with complex, thought-provoking themes, I recommend starting with Overruling Judgment. For those who prefer a story centered on straight-up polyamory dynamics, Willful Parties is the perfect choice. 

What do you do when you have free time?

I love to bake. I encourage indulging in life’s guilty pleasures, both spicy romance novels and sweet treats. I have posted many of my desserts on my website at https://lizellyn.com/treats/ 

How do you approach character development in your stories? Do you have any specific techniques or methods that you find particularly effective?

I have a three-step process for developing my characters, ensuring they feel authentic, relatable, and well-rounded.

Step 1 Notecards. I start by jotting down notes about my characters on notecards as inspiration strikes—often while I’m working on other books. This helps me capture ideas about their traits, quirks, and flaws in the moment, so I don’t lose them when brainstorming my story. And, I can keep track of how to challenge them.

Step 2 Outline. Once I have a solid foundation, I organize my cards into a detailed spreadsheet, breaking them down by character and chapter. Since I write in multiple POVs, I pay close attention to ensuring each character has an equal presence in the story (my chapters are all of similar length). I also use this step to tackle essential details like physical descriptions, living spaces, favorite foods, or signature phrases. This helps keep characters consistent and vivid throughout the book.  

Step 3 – Editing. After the first draft is complete, my initial round of editing zeroes in on the emotional development. I focus on refining the characters’ arcs, making sure their growth is compelling and their journeys feel full and satisfying.

By the end of this process, I want readers to connect deeply with my characters, whether they’re swooning over a romance, empathizing with their struggles, or cheering them on as they find their happy ending.

What do you believe sets your writing apart from others in your genre, and why should readers choose to read your books?

I love to explore the boundaries of conventional love, pushing into dynamics that often remain untapped outside the subgenres like BDSM romance. However, my stories prove that intimacy and heat don’t require punishment or strict power dynamics to be compelling. Instead, I craft romance scenes that ignite with desire and connection, creating a space for readers to experience the thrill of unconventional love in a fresh, approachable way.

Another hallmark of my writing is the fast-paced storytelling. I believe in captivating readers with drama and emotional connection without bogging them down with excess purple prose or over-elaborate setting descriptions. I focus on what drives the story forward while keeping the emotional stakes high.

Utilizing multiple points of view is another element that distinguishes my work. Readers gain a varied perspective, as Literary Titan aptly noted, “Readers are granted a multifaceted perspective.” This layered storytelling enriches the narrative, allowing the reader to connect deeply with every character’s journey.

Unlike much of hardcore erotic romance, I infuse my work with humor to provide moments of levity that contrast the heart-wrenching drama. As Readers’ Favorite highlighted, “the humor-infused dialogue made the reading experience all the more enjoyable.”

Finally, I take pride in creating scenes that are both light and emotionally charged. As Literary Titan reviewed: “Ellyn’s strength lies in her ability to create charged, intimate scenes that vividly portray the deep desire and emotional connection between the characters. The writing is light and fun, yet it doesn’t shy away from moments of drama and unpredictability, making the story feel dynamic and authentic.”

In short, my books offer a unique blend of humor, passion, and emotional depth that ensures readers are always engaged, entertained, and deeply invested in the characters. 

Can you discuss any upcoming projects or books that you're currently working on? What can readers expect from your future works?

I currently have five books in the works. The book to follow Willful Parties, is sitting on my editor’s desk. This will involve a new group of three involved in a polyamorous relationship with a completely different romantic dynamic. I hope to get it published in 2025. I am currently writing a novella to follow Overruling Judgment and also hope to publish i

Author Bio:

INDULGE IN LIFE'S GUILTY PLEASURES!

Liz Ellyn nourishes people’s cravings for the irresistible. Like the decadent desserts she delivers, she creates alluring characters deserving of happy endings.

With degrees in both engineering and law, she argues that the positive energy gained by indulging in one’s guilty pleasure appropriately counterbalances the serious forces of daily life.

When she isn’t writing or devouring steamy romance books, she spoils her family, including her two dogs, Boomer and Tanner.

Bon Appetite and Happy Reading!

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Instagram / X / TikTok

GIVEAWAY!
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—

Discover Icarus Rising Today and Tour Wide Giveaway

Title: Icarus Rising

Series: Motherboards & Magic (#2)

Author: Stephanie Burke & Areana Senoj

Publisher: Changeling Press LLC

Release Date: January 3, 2025

Heat Level: 4 - Lots of Sex

Length: 125 pages

Genre: Action Adventure, Futuristic, New Releases, Sci-Fi , Suspense

Themes: Alien Encounters, Bisexual, Multisexual, & Pansexual, Cyber-Punk, Gay, Hentai, Multiple Partners, Voyeurism and Exhibitionism

Add to Goodreads

Synopsis

Dark clouds are gathering. Icarus is the light at the end of the tunnel. And in his wake: Chaos.

Even though dark clouds gather in the distance, Asher, Vers, and Korya start to see the light at the end of the tunnel. That “Light” is named Icarus, and with him comes chaos. Even as the trio’s immediate problem is solved, more people are out to get them.

With danger at every turn, they can only depend on each other. Who is this mysterious alien called Icarus? Is he there to help protect them from the DPL or are they about to become victims of an insidious plot to end the planet? Either way, the friction is burning as they take one step closer to unraveling the mysteries of Asher’s parents’ death, and what the DPL is hiding.

Excerpt

Icarus Rising (Motherboards & Magic 2)

Stephanie Burke & Areana Senoj

All rights reserved.

Copyright ©2024 Stephanie Burke & Areana Senoj

TO THE INDIVIDUAL WITH THE GOLDEN BLOOD:

WHOEVER IS THE RH NULL,

I’VE BEEN LOOKING FOR YOU.

WE HAVE ISSUES TO DISCUSS THAT ARE PARAMOUNT TO THE PROTECTION OF THIS PLANET.

MEET ME AT THE SAHARA, LAS VEGAS

THE ALEXANDRIA SUITE (OF COURSE)

Even on second reading, the message made no sense to Korya. “Okay, what the fuck?”

Vers immediately pulled up Korya’s keyboard and began a trace. “You might want to get the boss,” Vers snapped, eyes intent as zis four-fingered hands flew over the keyboard. “I can’t find any trace, or even how they broke through your firewall.”

Korya, not needing to be told twice, spun on her pink fuzzy slippers and raced to the bathroom. “Asher!” she called out as she swung the door open and… froze.

Asher stood before her, absently toweling his waist-length hair, completely and utterly naked as the day he was born. His long hair flowed in inky waves down his back, the ends, dyed a lighter blue, drawing her attention for a moment before her gaze returned to his… other attributes. Oh, every creator god that ever existed, was that dick real?

But then her focus shifted back to his face and questioning look. His head tilted to the side, his cybernetic eye flared wide blue before a silver line overtook the red bar that had been there since he received news about his parents.

Her gaze wandered again, trailing over his golden skin, noting how soft and supple it looked, then back to his heart-shaped face -- and down his neck. Even though he was breathing and swallowing normally, she didn’t notice his neck muscles constrict.

“Korya?” His voice box looked off, like it didn’t move naturally.

Her attention then traveled to his right arm, muscular and powerful looking as he rubbed at his scalp. His other hand let go of his fall of hair to rest on his hips as he adjusted his stance, then shifted his weight on his legs. And that was where the jaw-dropping confusion reasserted itself in Korya’s brain.

His left arm and hand were a strange, steel gray with what looked like swirls of silver. It covered his left arm from the shoulder down to his fingertips and both legs. The water flowed along the metal muscles that looked and moved as natural as flesh but strangely was not. Fuck. She’d forgotten that he had lost both of his legs and one arm…

But… how? If not for the color and the too graceful and smooth movements of his body, she would have totally forgotten the greater portion of his physiology was cybernetic.

But what beautiful technology, she decided as she tracked the shifting movements under the metallic skin of his thick thighs, down to his toes flexing on her shower mat, and then back up to his calves.

Her new boss was metal… well, mostly. Her gaze darted back up to his left shoulder where she would be damned if she could even see how the flesh attached to the metal. It was a smooth, seamless transition. Only the fact that the golden flesh tones of his skin faded into the stark steel-gray metal gave away his android leanings.

But damn, each muscle was defined and sculpted beautifully. Her gaze dropped to his hips where his perfect Adonis belt melded into metal in a beautiful flow that only the world’s best artists or poets could do it the most justice.

“There are veins!” she all but shouted as she moved closer, dropping to her knees and reaching out a tentative hand for the closest thigh.

She didn’t even notice his flinch, only that he stepped back a bit and stared down at her, his confused look turning incredulous as she got a closer look at what so fascinated her.

Truly, Asher would be flattered but he knew her fascination had nothing to do with him and everything to do with the hardware he sported.

“Can I help you?” he asked as she looked up at him, flushed bright red, and pulled her hand back.

“Uh… I mean… did this hurt?” Then she winced, thinking her previous question the most stupid that had ever fallen out of her mouth. “That was a dumb question. Of course, it hurt. How in the galaxy did they manage… I mean the seams are nonexistent. And you look so real…”

“Yeah, just like a real boy.” His tone was pissy at best, but he really didn’t care. There was a woman kneeling at his feet and reaching for parts of his body that only he and his many varied doctors… okay. He really didn’t care who was staring at him, any parts of him. His shame had died a hard death when they had to lift his dick for him to take a piss. The legs came first, after all, and over time they’d built the graphene skeleton for his left arm and replace the pulverized bones in his right. The legs were an easy build and began to look more and more human as the augmentation therapy advanced, but the arms… He remembered standing under the water of a hot shower for the first time in months when they finally got his legs attached and healed… and the complete humiliation of someone having to scrub between his butt cheeks after every time he took a shit when they finally allowed him solid foods. They were kind enough to do scar removal from the colostomy bag but by that time, he had been poked, prodded, scanned, examined, and touched on every part of his body, intimate or not. A female on her knees before him while he was naked was something he’d experienced several times before. Someone who was neither a medical nor scientific doctor touching him and without his consent, however…

“Did you need something, really, or is this just a thing you do? If it is, I’m sure Vers will be more amenable --”

“I’m sorry.” Korya moaned, slapping both hands over her eyes and lowering her head, giggling nervously.

No, not nervously -- more like she was shocked by her actions. But not too shocked, because yes, that was her, parting some fingers to get another look at his junk… or… what was she staring at?

Purchase at Changeling Press LLC

Meet the Authors

Stephanie Burke

Stephanie is a USA Today Best Selling, multi published, multi award-winning author, Master Costumer, handicapped, wife and mother of two.

From sex-shifting, shape-shifting dragons to undersea worlds, sexually confused elemental Fey and homo-erotic mysteries, all the way to pastel-challenged urban sprites, Stephanie has done it all, and hopes to do more.

Stephanie is an orator on her favorite subjects of writing and world-building, a sometime teacher when you feed her enough tea and donuts, an anime nut, a costumer, and a frequent guest of various sci-fi and writing cons where she can be found leading panel discussions or researching varied legends and theories to improve her writing skills.

Stephanie is known for her love of the outrageous, strong female characters, believable worlds, male characters filled with depth, and multi-cultural stories that make the reader sit up and take notice.

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Areana Senoj 

Areana Senoj is a multi-genre writer of erotic romance, paranormal, and sci-fi fantasy fiction. She’s been an actress, singer, dancer, educator, and, briefly, a stay-at-home “tennis, soccer, and band mom,” as well as a small business entrepreneur. Now she’s enjoying a new career living life as a full-time writer. She’s thrilled to join Changeling Press, where she's teamed up with USA Today Best Selling Author Stephanie Burke, co-authoring Motherboards and Magic.

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One lucky winner will receive a $10.00 Changeling Press Gift Code! 

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Tour Stop/Giveaway: Lethal Impulse

This post is part of a virtual book tour organized by Goddess Fish Promotions. Steve Rush will be awarding a $20 Amazon/BN gift card to a randomly drawn winner. Click on the tour banner to see the other stops on the tour.

He’s riddled with guilt. She’s annoyed with the status quo.

The death of a crime boss’s daughter forces Detective Neil Caldera to leave NYC. He seeks refuge in the tranquil embrace of a small town, where he finds himself entangled in the labyrinth of a teenage girl’s murder.

Tess Fleishman’s pale skin and extreme weight loss portrays a disease she wants others to see. While inside, a compulsion for Neil fuels her passion to have him or destroy him.

As Neil delves into the heart of the town's secrets, will truth deliver solace? Or will Tess prevail?

Read an Excerpt

Tess set the camera on the rear seat. She pictured the murder scene planned at the barn. “You can thank me when it’s over. I need your help with this next part because the doctor told me I’m not to lift anything over twenty pounds. This leukemia drains me.” She popped open the trunk.

“I heard about your diagnosis.” Vanessa embraced Tess. “I thought about going into oncology once I complete medical school. If I get accepted. That is a long way off. What has the doctor said about your prognosis?”

“We view my future differently. I’m hoping for remission.” Tess gestured to the trunk. “Climb in.”

Vanessa glanced inside the trunk. She retreated two strides. “Do I have to get in there? It looks grimy. Why did you not bring your car?”

“We’re documenting an abduction and murder, Vanessa. We can’t let anybody see my car or you with me. It will ruin the surprise. It’s only until we get to the barn.”

Vanessa clambered into the trunk. Tess swathed towels around Vanessa’s wrists and ankles before she bound them with paracord. Vanessa thanked Tess for the use of towels to prevent ligature marks on her skin.

Tess grinned. “A killer must focus on details, Vanessa.”

About the Author:

Steve Rush is an award-winning author whose experience includes tenure as homicide detective and chief forensic investigator for a national consulting firm. He worked with the late Joseph L. Burton, M.D, under whom he mastered his skills, and investigated many deaths alongside Dr. Jan Garavaglia of Dr. G: Medical Examiner fame. His specialties include crime scene reconstruction, injury causation, blood spatter analysis, occupant kinematics, and recovery of human skeletal remains.

Steve’s book Kill Your Characters; Crime Scene Tips for Writers was named finalist in the 2023 Silver Falchion Award for Best Nonfiction and Honorable Mention in the 2023 Readers’ Favorite Awards. Lethal Impulse won the 2022 Public Safety Writing Association’s Writing Competition for an unpublished novel, longlisted in the 2022 Page Turner Awards and joint first prize in the 2020 Chillzee KiMo T-E-N Contest.

Publishing credits:

Kill Your Characters; Crime Scene Tips for Writers, Genius Books, June 2022
Blood Red Deceit, Wings ePress, (thriller) September 2023
After Her Deceit, Wings ePress, (thriller) October 2024
Lethal Impulse, The Wild Rose Press, (romantic suspense/crime thriller) October 2024
Upcoming 2025 releases:
The Shocking Truth (crime thriller) presale 02/15/25, and Deadline 4:59 (crime thriller), Wings ePress

Purchase links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCC8KC8Y/ref=sr_1_1
The Wild Rose Press: https://wildrosepress.com/product/lethal-impulse/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Lethal%20Impulse-
ITunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/isbn9781509258130
BooksAMillion: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/9781509258123

Website and social media links:

Website: https://www.steverush.org
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-rush-a20302149/
Substack: https://steverush.substack.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5217876
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/steve_rush

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New Release Spotlight: The Forever Rule by Carrie Ann Ryan

 

Carrie Ann Ryan introduces us to the Cage Family in her first book in the series, The Forever Rule. Get ready for some amazing characters and family drama to end all family dramas'. 

The Forever Rule

Series: The Cage Family, Book 1

Buy Links: https://geni.us/ForeverRuleCHoice 

Contemporary Romance, Family drama

What happens when the man you’d thought could be the one turns out to be your new boss?

 

Blakely

The moment I met Aston Cage, I knew my life had changed. A single dance later, we’re both all in. Until he ghosted me.

Then my boss fires me for dancing with the enemy.

Three months later, working for the Cages is my last resort. Now I’ll work beside him day by day, trying not to let my feelings take control. It’s heaven and hell. Except I’m starting to think there’s a part of this story I’m missing…

 

Aston

I made myself walk away from Blakely after my family’s dirty laundry hit the news. My father’s secret family complicates everything. In order to keep our inheritance intact, we’re forced to do monthly dinners with both sides of the family—the brothers I grew up with and the new set of siblings we never knew about.

An additional obstacle: Blakely is my new sister’s best friend.

Meaning the moment I give into temptation, I not only risk the woman I’m falling for, but the family legacy just starting to reveal itself.

But Blakley is worth it. I just have to prove I am as well.

 

**The Forever Rule is a missed connection, workplace, big city meets small town romance featuring Aston and Blakely. Each book can be read as a complete standalone. An HEA is guaranteed!**

Sneak Peek Excerpt:

“Aston,” James warned.

I was grateful for the chaperone in this conversation.

“It’s fine. I have a new job now, and I’m happy. There’s no need for anything to be awkward.” She smiled, though I wasn’t sure if it was real or not.

“What happened?” I asked.

Blakely gave me a confused look before turning to James. “You knew that I was searching for a job, and he didn’t?”

“No, your position would be under my purview, not his section. We separate our companies underneath the umbrella of Cage Enterprises so we don’t fight anymore. Brothers and all.”

She blinked, and I had no idea what she was thinking. It was easier to know her when we were just texting, when she was a stranger on the other line. And I desperately wanted to know what she was thinking.

“I was fired because Howard didn’t like our dance,” she said pointedly.

My hands fisted at my sides. “Are you fucking kidding me?”

“I’m not kidding you. He put it in different words and found another reason for me to lose my job. And for the past three months—”

“Three months?” I cut her off. “You’ve been out of work for three months?”

She winced, her cheeks turning a rosy shade.

“Aston. Seriously?” James grumbled.

“Yes. Because Howard didn’t want me to have a job. And I figured coming here of all places probably wouldn’t be the best bet.”

“I’m going to kill him,” I growled.

“You are not,” Blakely said, her voice strong, that same strength that I had liked three months ago.

“Excuse me?”

“This is my business. Yes, he’s a terrible man, and if I had the time and the wherewithal, I could have found a way to sue him or get vengeance, but it doesn’t matter. I have a new job. Your brother hired me. And I’m going to be the best at it. So we don’t need to make things awkward.”

“Oh this isn’t awkward at all,” James said.

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