Hayden Marsh watches his local amateur rugby league team play every Sunday afternoon. He doesn’t understand the finer points of the game, but then he’s more interested in the finer points of the number 13. Kenny Jacobs is big, strong, and has an alpha male streak a mile wide -- everything that Hayden desires in a lover. It doesn’t hurt either that Kenny looks drop dead sexy in his rugby kit on the field or his leather jeans off of it.<br><br>As Hayden’s father’s best friend, Kenny has been a part of Hayden’s life for as long as Hayden can remember. Because Kenny has always been an out and proud gay man, when Hayden began to realise his own sexuality, coming out to his parents was pretty much a non-event. However, tensions rise when Hayden announces his intention to date Kenny. His parents don’t like the idea of their son being with an older man who’s also a family friend. Kenny has his own reservations, too.<br><br>With so much stacked against him, will Hayden be lucky enough to win the heart of his number 13, or will he be shown the red card and be forced to admit defeat?

Bobby Simpson’s physiotherapy conference is cancelled at the last minute, so he’s forced to travel home earlier than expected. Being blind, Bobby requires passenger assistance at Leeds railway station in order to change trains. When this doesn’t arrive, Bobby sets off on his own, only to be told by someone on another platform that he’s about to fall onto the tracks.<br><br>Phil “Beasty” Beeston is about to catch his train when he sees a blind man near the edge of the platform opposite. He calls out, tells the man to stay where he is, and goes to the man’s rescue.<br><br>They both miss their train and Phil suggests going for a pint till the next train is due. As they drink, they talk. Phil tells Bobby he’s a builder and plays amateur rugby league for the Longton Lightning. He also confesses he’s ugly, which partially explains his nickname.<br><br>Bobby is more concerned with what a person is like on the inside, and what he’s learning about Phil, he likes. Phil’s work-acquired muscles don’t harm either. As he enjoys helping people, Bobby agrees to become the Lightning’s unpaid physio. The job has the added benefit of being able to interact with the hot if emotionally damaged Phil, both professionally and personally.<br><br>Phil’s life starts to turn around. He gets a promotion at work and his rugby playing improves. He puts this down to Bobby’s confidence in him. If only Phil had confidence in himself.<br><br>Can Phil’s and Bobby’s relationship continue to grow, or will it all come crashing down when Phil’s ugly past is revealed?

Wedding photographer Sam Crawford is commissioned to shoot a dozen amateur rugby league players for a nude calendar. Sam thinks Lee Dolby, A.K.A. Mr. July, is the sexiest one of the bunch but Lee is ill at ease during the shoot. Sam offers to take more pictures of Lee at home where the man is more relaxed and if anything, even sexier.<br><br>When Sam’s assistant calls in sick, Lee offers his help in photographing a wedding. Lee soon shows he has a talent behind the camera as well as in front of it.<br><br>Will things between the two men develop? Or be over in a flash?

Pete Benson is not happy. He has a boring going nowhere job and to save money he lives with his grandmother because living with his homophobic parents isn’t an option. A knee injury meant Pete had missed the majority of the previous rugby season. His general unhappiness at life plus the enforced lack of activity resulted in his weight and his waistline ballooning, and his self-confidence plummeting.<br><br>Knowing he needs to make a change, a reluctant Pete agrees to accompany his friend to her weight loss group. Despite his friend’s reassurances, Pete fears he’ll stick out as the meeting will be full of women. It is, but there is one other man present ... Bear. And what a man.<br><br>Pete is instantly attracted to Bear, who rocks the whole lumberjack look with his flannel shirt and tight jeans. The bald head and full beard only add to the man’s sex appeal. And those dark blue eyes ... But a man like Bear won’t be interested in a fat lump like Pete.<br><br>The lost and hopeless demeanour Pete exudes speaks to something within Bear, but Bear is happy, okay, content, living the single bachelor life. However, Bear would swear BJ is doing his doggy best to push Bear and Pete together. Not that Bear objects. Those firm, strong rugby player thighs of Pete’s turn Bear on something fierce.<br><br>When it’s Man of the Year Award time again, will the group have a choice of who to vote for?

As he lies in bed Saturday morning, Will Marshall reflects on the previous night's trick that he'd picked up at the club. Will never bothers to learn the names of his tricks since he shows them the door as soon as they're done. Oddly, though, he can't remember seeing Wotshisname out. As this realization hits, he hears a crash somewhere in his flat. Turns out Wotshisname -- Jamie -- made Will breakfast ... and leaves his number behind when he does finally go.<br><br>Days pass, but try as hard as he might, Will can't get Jamie out of his mind. Every trick is compared to Jamie and is found wanting. Even his cat seems to be missing Jamie. And the fact Jamie is a teacher, something that was revealed during the unexpected breakfast, endears him to Will's mother, who despairs of her son ever settling down.<br><br>Somewhere in his messy flat is the scrap of paper with Jamie's number. It wouldn't hurt to find it and put it in his phone, just in case. It's not like he'd actually call the man or anything. After all, he never does the same trick twice, right?

Troy Ashton is not gay! He thought his life was all mapped out for him -- he’d get his sotan cape after he turned eighteen, be paired with his female life mate, and be gifted with his superpowers. However, the Council for Sotan Affairs has other plans for Troy. They selected him to be a tuohygan -- the only one of his generation -- and they’ve paired him with a male omega. Troy likes the idea of being a tuohygan: they’re faster, stronger, and have a greater range of superpowers than sotans. Plus he gets to prefix his name with Super. But ... he isn’t gay! So no thank you.<br><br>The pain of remaining unbonded from his omega is intense, but Troy is determined he won’t give in and marry another man. That is until his and Beck Dolan’s paths cross. Troy literally flies to the rescue when he sees a man falling into a lake. There’s something about him that calls to Troy’s inborn need to protect. Just being around Beck eases something inside of Troy, centering and calming him. Could Troy be not as straight as he thought?<br><br>Coming out is traumatic. Mostly because Troy’s family already knew or strongly suspected he was gay. He doesn’t understand how they could know but he didn’t. He’s a jock -- captain of both his high school and college football teams, doesn’t that mean he’s straight? He also experiences a few growing pains with his newfound powers, the most visible of which are the dents in Beck’s trashcan when he misjudges his landings when he flies in to rescue his man.<br><br>Troy soon adapts to his role as both tuohygan and husband. However, Troy grows concerned when Beck starts getting sick to his stomach in the mornings, and what’s with the sudden craving for fish, the smellier the better? Life as SuperTroy is certainly more adventurous than he could ever have imagined.

Colin Rogers and his civil partner, Martin Kellam, are invited to spend Christmas down under with Colin’s uncle Matt on his sheep station.<br><br>Colin has lost his job and worries about the airfare. But Matt offers to help with the cost, and also mentions the possibility that the pair will like Australia so much they’ll agree to emigrate.<br><br>Two years earlier when Matt spent Christmas with Colin’s family in London, he’d talked about his feelings for Bruce, his foreman. However, on arrival it soon becomes obvious he hasn’t said anything to Bruce, so Colin and Martin decide to play matchmakers.<br><br>Many decisions have to be made. Can Matt trust his heart? Will Australia be the new start Colin and Martin need? Or is England, despite its cool temperatures and warm beer, too comfortable and familiar to leave?

By popular demand, all four of Drew Hunt's best-selling Colin and Martin Christmas stories have been brought together in a single box set. Share in Colin Rogers and Martin Kellam’s lives as seen through four very different Christmases:<br><br><strong>First Christmas</strong>-- Blind since birth, Martin orders groceries online. It doesn’t hurt that the man who brings them has a sexy voice. Colin usually leaves Martin’s deliveries until last so he can spend extra time with the man he has a secret longing to protect. When Martin offers to cook Christmas dinner for Colin, will turkey and stuffing be all that’s on the menu?<br><br><strong>London Christmas</strong>-- Colin and Martin got together at Christmas five years ago. But could this be their last? Martin can’t forgive Colin for leaving the gate open, allowing Toby, Martin’s guide dog, to escape and die on the road. Will the spirit of Christmas, the warmth of Colin’s family, and the thrills of London be enough to fix their relationship?<br><br><strong>Australian Christmas</strong>-- While spending Christmas down under with Colin’s uncle Matt, Colin and Martin can’t help but play matchmakers between Matt and Bruce, the foreman on Matt’s sheep station. Can Matt risk his heart to the man he’s loved from afar for years?<br><br><strong>Goodbye Christmas</strong>-- Colin and Martin have one final Christmas with Colin’s parents before emigrating to Australia. When his mum reveals bad news, Colin is torn between family obligation and the future he and Martin have longed for. Can Martin show him he can have both?

Calvin Hamilton reluctantly returns to his home town of Parrish Creek, Texas, to sell his parents' house. Finding the place in need of repair he hires John "Brock" Brockwell to renovate the house before putting it on the market. Brock bares a passing resemblance to Gary Cooper, especially as he often wears western clothing. Calvin has always had a weakness for cowboys.<br><br>Time has reversed the two men's fortunes. In high school Brock was the big man on campus, his popularity allowing him to hide his true nature. Calvin was a nerd, bullied by most of the jocks for being perceived as gay. Now Calvin is a successful New York advertising executive, and Brock is a divorced father with a teenage son who faces financial ruin, unable to pay his late father's hospital bills.<br><br>Can Calvin put past bitterness behind him and help the cowboy with whom he is rapidly falling in love? Will the deeply closeted Brock be able to admit he has feelings for Calvin? Or will pride, fear, distance, and the past prevent them from building a future together?

Rory Brown grew up in care but found a home, friendship, and a much-needed sense of security working on the Double J ranch. As far as Rory is concerned, fellow cowboy, Zane Fox, is perfect. Zane is strong but gentle, kind, big, ruggedly handsome ... and straight. Rory works alongside Zane, eats alongside Zane, and when an ice storm causes a power outage, he sleeps alongside Zane ... for warmth. Inhibitions lowered after getting drunk on his twenty-first birthday, Rory Kisses Zane and confesses his feelings for the man. The next day, when Rory learns his father is dying, although estranged from the man, Rory feels obligated to see him one last time. Zane follows Rory to Kansas and confesses he has feelings for Rory, too. After learning his father has died, Rory and Zane set off for home in Zane's old truck. However, bad weather and a mechanical breakdown mean they have to hole up in a guesthouse. Rory doesn't mind, it gives him a chance to explore things with his hunky new boyfriend. And there's a lot of Zane to explore. Life on the ranch is little short of idyllic, Zane is everything and more Rory could want in a lover, protector, and friend. A tiny part of Rory knows he should brace himself for if/when the other shoe -- or cowboy boot -- drops. Rory is thrown when evidence of Zane's heterosexual past reveals itself, leaving him totally devastated. Are Zane's feet made of clay, or can he redeem himself and once again become Rory's rock?

As far as Mike Johnson is concerned, Cory Hawkins is perfect -- big, strong, blond, kind ... and straight and going out with his sister. Usually Emma dated losers, but Cory was a definite exception to the rule. When Cory breaks his foot playing rugby, he shows up at Mike’s front door on crutches. The lift up to Cory’s flat is out of order, so Mike invites Cory to stay with him. As Emma is away, Mike willingly becomes Cory’s caregiver and driver. When Cory’s and Emma’s relationship ends, Mike believes he won’t ever see Cory again, so is surprised to get a phone call from the man. It seems Cory thinks Mike would be a better fit, romantically speaking, than his sister. Mike is hesitant. Cory is straight and Mike doesn’t want to be discarded once Cory realises this. But Cory -- with his muscles, sexy smile, and winning personality -- can be very persuasive. Can love be blind to gender? Or will Mike come to regret his sister ever bringing her boyfriend home?

"As a Christmas gift to himself, interior designer Nick Dailey decides to fly to Southern Florida to watch his local NFL team play an away game. However, his last minute plans meant there was no room at any of the inns, forcing him to rent a room in a seedy motel. Nick’s employee and best gal pal, Penny, had promised him a surprise gift. He’s amazed when he discovers this is none other than a meeting with “Big Bad Brad” Williams, star defensive lineman for the Outlaws. Nick can’t believe it when Brad asks if he can kiss Nick. Naturally Nick agrees. Pushing his luck, Nick asks to explore the big man’s chocolate-colored skin, bulging muscles, and heavy tattoos. Things take a decided turn for the surreal when Brad strips naked and Nick is formally introduced to Brad’s genitalia -- Buddy Johnson and Bill and Ben Balls. What follows is an afternoon of passion, wonder, and delight that Nick knows he won’t ever forget. But when the encounter is over, unexpected and uncomfortable truths are revealed. How will Brad and Nick each handle their surprise gifts?"

"College football player Brett is devastated when he learns Gavin, the man he’s waited for in Heaven, is married and intends to spend his afterlife with his wife, who predeceased him. Lost, Brett leans heavily on his friends, his dads Colton and Dennis, as well as his work as a vet tech. Brett is assigned the rehabilitation of Willow, a tall sorrel horse, who died in a lightning strike. However, where Willow goes, so does Jake Rushton, the cowboy who rides him. Can Jake adjust to life in Heaven and, for the first time, allow someone close enough to love and care for him? Despite past hurts, can Brett be all Jake needs him to be?"

"Sequel to Calvin's Cowboy It's been seven months since Calvin Hamilton came crashing into John “Brock” Brockwell’s life. Calvin’s belief in him has allowed Brock to reclaim his dignity with a new life, a new job, and a new relationship. It's Valentine's Day and Brock is determined to do something special for his lover, so he buys red roses and a card. However, on getting home, he soon discovers Calvin has also made plans, ones that involve blindfolds, rope, and sex toys. Join Calvin and Brock as they rock the rafters with a compelling mixture of raunch and romance."

"It’s fourteen years to the day since Zack Pierce and Sam Patterson declared their love for each other. The two men’s lives have settled into cozy domesticity. Zack is now the town’s doctor and Sam works as a police officer. However, news that their best friends Billy and Pete’s surrogate baby is due to be born sooner than expected causes the men to put their anniversary celebrations on hold. Events during the next twelve hours will strengthen the bonds of family, love and loyalty."

"Blind since birth, Martin Kellam is facing the prospect of yet another Christmas alone save for his guide dog, Toby. Finding it easier to shop online, Martin orders groceries to be delivered from the local supermarket. It doesn’t hurt that the delivery driver is strong, hot, and has a sexy London accent. Colin Rodgers usually leaves Martin’s deliveries until last so he can spend a little extra time with the man he admires and has a secret longing to protect. One day close to Christmas, Martin is making soup and asks Colin to join him. Colin agrees. As they eat, Colin reveals he’s not looking forward to Christmas as he’ll be spending it with a friend and the friend’s fiancée. Not expecting him to accept, Martin offers to cook Christmas dinner for Colin. But Colin surprises him. Will turkey and stuffing be all they’ll share?"

"Sequel to Calvin’s Cowboy When John “Brock” Brockwell’s high school class ring goes missing, then later reappears, his boyfriend, Calvin Hamilton, denies all knowledge. Often when Brock walks into a room, Calvin and his guests change the subject. What’s going on? Brock wonders if Calvin is working up to proposing marriage. But despite several opportunities -- limo rides, drinking champagne in a private jet before retiring to the bedroom at the back of the plane, and vacationing on a gay dude ranch in Texas -- Calvin doesn’t pop the question. Brock soon finds life as a cowboy on the ranch isn’t what he thought it would be. When he confesses this to Calvin, tempers flare. Where are the wedding bells Brock was expecting? Will love and honor win out over pride and stubbornness?"

"The third book in the Fireside Romance saga sees Simon Peters and Mark Smith return from their summer holiday in Menorca, Spain, where they exchanged wedding rings. As a committed couple, Simon and Mark widen their social circle. However, a near tragedy reminds them that togetherness needs to be celebrated because it can all too easily be snatched away. Much to his surprise, the serious and conservative librarian Simon discovers he has a kinky side, one which he and Mark take every opportunity to explore, even in unlikely places such as inside their new garden shed. Then Christmas arrives, which heralds their first anniversary, and along with it comes a new addition to their household. Join Simon and Mark as they navigate through the highs and lows of life in late 1980's northern England."

"Ranch hand Bill Webster has worked on the Lazy W. for ten years, and for most of that time he’s been in a relationship with foreman Rusty Redfern. Lately Rusty has been slowing down. Although Bill likes the gentler, more romantic side to his lover, he can’t help missing the old Rusty who was always bursting with energy. When Rusty needs a pacemaker, Bill has to use all his powers of persuasion to get Rusty to the hospital. There Bill waits and worries while Rusty is in surgery, remembering happier times when they first met. How does each man adapt to the various changes of pace in their lives and relationship?"

"What should a straight high school junior do when he learns a gay guy in his grade has a crush on him? When JJ Brockwell stops a group of jocks from bullying comic book nerd Milton Katz, he finds himself the object of Milton’s misplaced affection. JJ wants to be his friend, but Milton wants more. JJ has a girlfriend named Maggie, who wants to wait before having sex. JJ respects this, but he’s 16 and cold showers only go so far. Maggie thinks Milton’s crush on her boyfriend is cute, but that doesn’t help with JJ’s problem. All Milton wants is JJ, and all JJ wants is Maggie. How can they find a solution to this impossible triangle?"

"Colin Rogers and his civil partner, Martin Kellam, are invited to spend Christmas down under with Colin’s uncle Matt on his sheep station. Colin has lost his job and worries about the airfare. But Matt offers to help with the cost, and also mentions the possibility that the pair will like Australia so much they’ll agree to emigrate. Two years earlier when Matt spent Christmas with Colin’s family in London, he’d talked about his feelings for Bruce, his foreman. However, on arrival it soon becomes obvious he hasn’t said anything to Bruce, so Colin and Martin decide to play matchmakers. Many decisions have to be made. Can Matt trust his heart? Will Australia be the new start Colin and Martin need? Or is England, despite its cool temperatures and warm beer, too comfortable and familiar to leave?"

"‘Tis the night before Christmas and hardware store owner Harry Pettit was all alone in his store with only his accounts and a recording of La Boheme for company. When someone knocks at the shop’s door, Harry is surprised to see a knight in full armour. Thinking it’s a drunken prank or a hold up, Harry is reluctant to let the knight in. However, upon discovering the knight’s helmet is stuck closed, Harry’s good nature and the fact it’s Christmas has him invite the stranger inside. Once freed from the helmet, Harry is immediately captivated by the shy man underneath the armour. Seems George White was destined to attend a fancy-dress party with his brother, but when the brother cancels, George, like Harry, finds himself with nothing else to do on Christmas Eve. So why not spend it together? Can St. Nicholas deliver a happy Christmas and a good night to both men? Warning: this short holiday-themed story contains romance, poetry, snow, and a can of WD-40."

"Driving home from a concert, William Prout worries his rock star vocalist boyfriend Alex “Tank” Sherman is about to dump him. Things haven’t been the same between them since Tank and his nu metal band went to New York City to discuss a recording contract. William doesn’t think their relationship can withstand the increased publicity Tank’s fame will attract. Already Tank is withdrawn, distracted, and won’t answer any of William’s questions. William’s fears heighten when Tank directs him off the highway and along a series of dirt tracks. Where are they going? Will the end of their car journey also be the end of them as a couple, or has Tank worked out a way to have both a career and William?"

"Joe Barnes is infatuated with fellow college freshman Ron Driscoll. Ron is in the ROTC program and Joe starts to dress in military clothing to emulate his idol. But apart from discussions in philosophy class, Joe is too shy to speak to Ron, and Ron doesn’t break away from his circle of admirers long enough to notice that Joe is alive. Joe all but throws himself at Ron during a discussion of Kant’s views on beauty. But Ron remains unaware of Joe’s feelings. One Friday after class Joe visits the bathroom and finds himself blindfolded and put in handcuffs. Having a secret kink for bondage Joe is by turns scared and aroused. Ron has planned a romantic and kinky weekend with Joe in the Allegheny mountains where soft rope will be needed, but clothes will not."

"Calvin Hamilton reluctantly returns to his home town of Parrish Creek, Texas, to sell his parents' house. Finding the place in need of repair he hires John ""Brock"" Brockwell to renovate the house before putting it on the market. Brock bares a passing resemblance to Gary Cooper, especially as he often wears western clothing. Calvin has always had a weakness for cowboys. Time has reversed the two men's fortunes. In high school Brock was the big man on campus, his popularity allowing him to hide his true nature. Calvin was a nerd, bullied by most of the jocks for being perceived as gay. Now Calvin is a successful New York advertising executive, and Brock is a divorced father with a teenage son who faces financial ruin, unable to pay his late father's hospital bills. Can Calvin put past bitterness behind him and help the cowboy with whom he is rapidly falling in love? Will the deeply closeted Brock be able to admit he has feelings for Calvin? Or will pride, fear, distance, and the past prevent them from building a future together?"

"Paul Harrison is completely straight. His house will not flood again. And gay men don’t play cricket. Eventually Paul will find out just how incorrect these preconceived notions are. When the river overflows its banks, Paul is forced to find temporary accommodation. The only practical suggestion comes from Trevor, an out and proud work colleague. Despite Paul’s hesitancy regarding Trevor’s offer of hospitality, he accepts and soon grows to admire Trevor, his humanity, his determination, and his abilities with a cricket ball. In order to protect his fragile emotions, Trevor keeps people at a distance by wearing gaudy clothing and behaving outrageously. He had no way of knowing that doing the right thing by offering Paul his spare room will lead to such a big change in his life. A tenuous connection develops between the two men. But misunderstandings and in-born prejudices threaten to derail their growing friendship. Things get even more complicated when Gary, Trevor’s ex-lover, shows up. Can Trevor learn to trust again? Will Paul listen to his heart and discover that, despite first impressions, there’s just something about Trevor he can’t deny?"

"Just before rushing off to catch his plane home after a two-week bus tour of Florida, Will Thompson tells Graham Knight that he loves him. Stunned, not least because before meeting Will he thought himself straight, Graham watches Will leave. Realising he feels the same way, Graham has to journey across the US to tell Will he loves him, too. But with little money and travelling in a strange country, the way to Will is not an easy one."

"It was just another routine flight from Hong Kong to Manchester for Flight attendant Nigel Grimond until he spied sexy bodybuilder Phil Wilson crammed in seat 12E. Upgrading Phil to business class, Nigel spent as much time as possible talking with the man as well as admiring his muscles and his eagle tattoo. As a thank you for the upgrade, Phil asks Nigel out to dinner at a village pub. Pessimistic at his chances of scoring with such a hunk, Nigel’s hopes are lifted by his psychic friend Tracy who is convinced this is Nigel’s big chance at finding love. Nigel waits at the pub for Phil, who is running late. Through a series of text messages, Phil assures Nigel he won’t be long. But after two hours of waiting, Nigel goes home alone. Phil begs for a second chance, so Nigel is back at the pub the next night, but the excellent food and friendly bar staff will be little consolation if Nigel is stood up a second time. What if Phil doesn’t show? Why is Tracy so insistent that all signs point to love? Shouldn’t Nigel just go home, get drunk, and forget all about strong muscles and tattooed eagle wings?"

"Londoner Ernest Porter wasn’t looking for love that Saturday morning. Nor was he looking where he was going. Fortunately PC Liam McAvoy was looking, and saves Ernest from falling into a hole caused by a missing manhole cover. The weather is hot, and wanting to thank Liam for saving him, Ernest offers the policeman a glass of ice tea. They talk and Ernest finds himself increasingly drawn to the young constable. But it can’t go anywhere. Liam isn’t gay, there’s a big age difference between them, and Ernest is still hurting from a previous betrayal. After weeks of internal struggle, Ernest finally confesses all. Liam’s reaction is not what Ernest expects."

"Two men trapped in an elevator are about to discover they have more in common than the inconvenience of lost time. Dr. Mason Grant recognizes Parker Collins, whom he had loved during their senior year in high school, but Parker does not immediately recognize Mason. Maybe it’s the passage of time that has dulled his memory ... or maybe it’s the wheelchair in which Mason is confined. As the two wait to be rescued, Mason recalls their six month love affair -- its uncertain beginning, its athletic highs both on and off the field, its romantic peacefulness spent at the Grant’s remote lake cabin, as well as its painful lows and horrific conclusion. The teenage Mason realized there were two sides to his lover -- the confident Parker, an athletic hero popular with both teammates and female students, and the private Parker, who is unsure, sexually submissive, and needs to be cuddled and petted. All Mason wanted then was for Parker to love him, and not diminish what they shared by giving in to the social pressures that demanded he play out the role of football jock and studly lady killer. Now that they’re grown men, what happens when Parker sees past Mason’s wheelchair and realizes who’s trapped in the elevator with him?"

"On his first night renting a cottage on the Cornish coast, widower John Tennant comes face to face with, of all things, a grizzly bear. Fearing for his life, John tries to convince the animal he isn't worth eating, and is relieved when the bear ambles away. Maintenance man Mitch Benjamin is two hundred years old but doesn’t look a day over forty. As a werebear, he needs to stay under the radar. The new renter is making that difficult. Not only is John attractive, but his vulnerability triggers all of Mitch’s protective instincts. If that wasn’t trouble enough, Mitch is struggling with his inner bear’s desire to befriend John. He knows what his bear is up to, but Mitch doesn’t want another mate. His last one was murdered ninety years ago, and he’s still grieving. John is confused by Mitch’s mixed signals. Physically, Mitch -- with his bulging muscles and hulking frame -- is a gay man’s wet dream come true. But emotionally, he keeps closing down. John discovers more comfort with the magnificent grizzly bear he occasionally meets on his evening walks along the beach. In an effort to help, Morwenna, the owner of the cottages, uses her psychic gifts to give John a message from his dead lover, George. Far from helping, it adds another layer of strangeness to what’s already turning out to be the strangest summer John can remember. Can a well-meaning medium and a determined grizzly bring John and Mitch together? Will Mitch come clean about his werebear nature? If he does, can John accept that a man and bear exist in the same body?"

"Aaron Jones quits his job as an IT tech and decides to tour the east coast of the U.S. before flying home to Britain. But hitching rides isn’t easy, especially when there’s a heat wave going on. Standing on the side of the road, thumb extended and bottle of water empty, Aaron starts to despair. Seeing a cute guy trying to hitch a ride, trucker Ben Knight picks him up before the cops do. Aaron is relieved to be out of the heat, but gratitude almost instantly heats up into something more potent when he gets a look at his rescuer -- a handsome, mature bear. Ben cannot believe anyone as incredible as Aaron could be interested in an overweight guy with too many miles on the clock. What happens when they finally reach Newark and the heat between Ben and Aaron rivals that outside?"

"All four novels in Drew Hunt's best-selling gay erotic romance series, Fireside Romance , are now available in one box set! Contains the stories: First Flames: One evening, when the loneliness becomes overwhelming, Simon gathers up his courage and goes to the red light district of the town to buy a little human companionship. As the weeks pass, Simon and Mark find warmth and friendship indoors. When an explosion injures Mark, Simon has to make a decision. Can he offer Mark shelter and nurse him back to health without revealing his true feelings? Burning Brighter: After declaring their love for each other on Christmas Day, Simon Peters and Mark Smith settle down to a cosy life of domestic togetherness. Snuggle up in an easy chair and toast your toes in front of the fire as you read Simon and Mark’s continuing romantic adventures. Heating Up: Simon and Mark’s social life grows. However, a near tragedy reminds them to celebrate such togetherness because it could be snatched away. Simon discovers he has a kinky side, one which he and Mark often explore. Join them as they navigate the highs and lows of life. Glowing Embers: Numerous challenges face Simon and Mark. Because of his time on the streets, Mark worries about HIV. Mark’s dad gets back in contact and brings issues of his own. Can this unconventional family pull together despite all the world has thrown at them?"

"When Dennis Irvine finally arrives at the pearly gates, St. Peter tells him he's late. This is nothing new for Dennis, who's always had a poor sense of timekeeping. On being admitted into Heaven, Dennis is assigned to Brett, a handsome college football player, who will be his guide. Heaven is not what Dennis expects. It's a college campus, Dennis sleeps in a dorm room with Brett, it's always football season, and why are there so many corners? Dennis and Brett forge a close platonic father and son friendship as they both wait for their lovers to pass over. Each time the Archangel Gabriel comes to tell them of new arrivals, Dennis hopes he'll have news of Colton, his beloved firefighter. But the wait is a long one."

"Six months on from meeting in Heat Wave: Newark , Ben Knight and Aaron Jones face a totally different type of weather as they prepare for their first Christmas together in small town Maine. All Aaron wants for Christmas is Ben home safe and sound from a long haul ride along I-95, as well as to hear the words ""I love you"" from his man's lips. But when the snow starts to fall and Ben is still one day away from home, Aaron's hopes begin to fade. Can Ben make it home safely? And what's with the gifts under the tree, each with a different hand-drawn image? It promises to be a Christmas neither man will soon forget."

"Sequel to Colin and Martin's First Christmas Christmas is a special time for Colin Rodgers and Martin Kellam. Their relationship began during the holiday five years earlier. But this Christmas could be their last. Colin left the garden gate open and Toby, Martin’s guide dog, got out, only to be run over and killed. Although he tries not to blame Colin, Martin finds it hard to forgive his boyfriend. In an effort to save their relationship, Colin takes Martin to London to spend the holiday with the Rodgers family. There they meet Colin’s Uncle Matt, visiting from Australia. Will the spirit of Christmas, the warmth of family, and the thrills of the big city be enough to mend Colin and Martin’s relationship?"

"Bitter and depressed after his boyfriend walks out on him, Garth Morgan cancels Christmas. Garth’s mom has other ideas however. She reminds him there’s still Adam, Garth’s eight-year-old son to consider. So Garth braves the Christmas Eve crowds at the shopping mall to buy gifts. Despite aching feet and arms that feel like they’re being pulled out of their sockets, Garth agrees to wait in line so Adam can see Santa. Adam asks for a new boyfriend for his daddy because the last one made Daddy cry. When the Santa lectures both Garth and Adam about the sins of homosexuality, Adam objects, swivels around on the man’s knee, and kicks him in the nuts. Before Adam and Garth can make their escape, they’re stopped by Tony Luciano, a former Marine who now works as a security guard. One look at the man’s wide chest, broad shoulders, and model-handsome face has Garth hoping Adam’s wish is about to come true."

"Middle-aged teacher David Grover is traveling home from a conference, but fatigue and bad weather force him to stop at a motel for the night. Unfortunately, the Marine ahead of him at the counter snags the last available room. But despair soon turns to elation when the studly Master Sergeant Bud Williams offers to share. Sharing a room also means sharing a bed, and their one night together turns into much more. Only later does David discover Bud is keeping secrets from him. Once these secrets come to light, their regular weekend trysts end, and David finds it hard to move on. Then David learns Bud volunteered for a tour in Iraq, only to be returned stateside after suffering extensive injuries caused by a roadside bomb. Forgiveness and healing doesn't come easily, but just as things start looking up, Bud's past threatens to pull them apart again. Both men face painful decisions if they hope to find a life together. It's a rough road to happiness -- as much as the rest of the world struggles to keep them apart, all Bud and David can do is battle to get back together since neither is complete without the other."

"The men from the best-selling novel Cowboy Sandwich are back for a second helping of threesome loving and humor. When their mobile ranch game is nominated for several awards by a gaming magazine in London, Barry Logan, Jimmy Wilson, and Jake Pierce fly across the Atlantic to visit Barry’s family as well as attend the games convention and awards ceremony. Driving on the wrong side of the road, paying a small fortune for gas, eating strange foods, and dealing with an unfamiliar temperature scale are just the start of Jimmy’s and Jake’s adventures. Tensions run high after the awards ceremony. Jimmy and Jake see how well-connected Barry is within the games industry and know they can’t offer him the sort of career and life a talented games developer deserves. After their week-long visit to the UK, will they be flying back to the States as a threesome, strengthened by their trials, or will the relationship fracture under the strain of incompatibility?"

"Sequel to The Nutcracker P is for Penne Alla Vodka and Garth Morgan and Tony Luciano are determined not to let the horrors of the Pulse nightclub shootings prevent them from celebrating their eighteen-month anniversary with the next dish on their A-Z list of pasta dishes. Garth knows he’ll be eating ziti on his wedding day, but before then he has one other important question to ask Tony, one that affects not just his life but also that of Adam, Garth’s ten-year-old son. Will dessert be as sweet as Garth hopes, or will Tony’s answer leave a bad taste in his mouth? Note: This short story was originally published in the charity collection, Love Is Proud."

"After declaring their love for each other on Christmas Day, Simon Peters and Mark Smith settle down to a cosy life of domestic togetherness. A new year brings new joys and challenges. Sam, a neighbour boy comes to stay for a few days and adopts Simon and Mark as honorary dads. A promotion at work gives Simon more responsibility. Mark finds employment at the local café. The purchase of a car allows the couple to get out and about to explore the Yorkshire countryside. Snuggle up in an easy chair and toast your toes in front of the fire as you read Simon and Mark’s continuing romantic adventures."

"Wounded by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan and suffering post traumatic stress as a result, Andy Johnson is given a medical discharge from the British army. Shunning attention, Andy lives a quiet and lonely existence on his pig farm in Yorkshire. His peace is threatened when his friends take him to the city for his birthday. They buy him a kiss from Luke Wales, a twink porn star. Overwhelmed and needing some air, Andy escapes outside. Luke finds him there. They talk and Andy begins to relax. It’s cold and Andy gives Luke his combat jacket. However Roger, Luke’s boyfriend appears and the momentary connection is lost. Weeks later, recently separated from Roger, Luke is back in the north of England. He decides to pay Andy a visit, using the excuse of returning the man’s jacket. A snow storm forces the two men to spend time together, and a tentative friendship begins. Neither man is convinced they are worthy of the other. It takes time, plus the encouragement of friends and Andy’s teenage nephew, Craig, to convince the reluctant couple that what exists on the surface only tells part of the story. Andy’s scars and Luke’s past employment shouldn’t stand in the way of them exploring what each feels for the other."

"The characters from Surprise Gifts return for another kinky adventure. Former NFL defensive lineman Brad Williams only agrees to put on his old football uniform and take part in a charity bachelor auction when his boyfriend, Nick Dailey, promises to bid on him. But when the auction begins, Nick is nowhere to be found, and to make matters worse, an obese woman in the fourth row keeps topping everyone’s bid. Fortunately it turns out she’s bidding for Nick, who has been busy setting up a post-auction candlelit picnic. But Brad soon discovers the food is just the appetizer, and he’s the main course. Before long, his wrists are bound above his head and he’s teased with various sex toys until he gets his just desserts. Later, needing to reassert his macho pride, Brad puts his own plans for the evening into action. What can two horny former football players get up to in a deserted baseball stadium, not to mention an empty locker room? Warning: contains scenes of mild BDSM as well as unorthodox uses of soft fruit, chocolate sauce, and baseball bases."

"The fourth and final Colin and Martin Christmas story sees the two men leaving Yorkshire to begin new lives in Australia. Martin Kellam has no qualms about saying goodbye to what remains of his family, while Colin’s parting gift to Martin’s brother is a well-deserved punch in the nose. Before leaving, the two men have one final Christmas in London with Colin’s parents, who are pulling out all the stops to make it an occasion to remember. Martin enjoys teasing his husband. He knows Colin can never resist going in search of presents before Christmas Day. As this is their last winter Christmas, Martin boxes up a lump of coal and puts it somewhere where Colin will find it. The festivities are brought to an abrupt halt when Colin’s mother reveals disturbing news that throws Colin and Martin’s emigration plans into turmoil. Despite Martin’s much-needed comfort and reassurance, Colin is torn between family obligation and the future he and Martin have longed for. Can Martin show him that he can have both?"

"High school quarterback Zack Pierce’s life is spiralling out of control. To hide from his growing attraction to Sam, his best friend and team mate, Zack drinks, smokes dope, and has sex with any girl who will have him. Things reach a crisis point when Zack’s girlfriend dumps him after she finds out he’s got another girl pregnant. Not knowing what else to do, Zack breaks out his father’s bourbon and calls Sam for help. The call in the middle of the night scares Sam, who rushes to his friend’s side. Dare he risk everything by confessing what he feels for Zack? The next twelve hours will either make or break them."

"What’s better than a story about a sexy gay cowboy? How about a whole posse of them? Editor Drew Hunt has rounded up some of the finest authors in the M/M western genre to bring you this collection celebrating gay cowpokes! Meet real men who ride the trail or ride the rodeo, join a wild west show or douse their thirst at the local country western bar. Whether in the bygone Old West or on a modern cattle ranch, these rugged hunks know how to ride ‘em hard and put ‘em away wet. And the ride lasts a lot longer than eight seconds, so saddle up, pardner, and let them take you on a wild ride ... or for a quick roll in the hay. NOTE: Each of the stories in this collection is available as individual e-books for those readers who only want to pick and choose which they want to buy. Or do yourself a favor and rassle up all sixteen smoldering tales at once! Contains the stories: Roughshod by Dale Chase, Taming Brooks by R.W. Clinger, The Spring at Sloan Pond by Lee Crittenden, Rogayo by Landon Dixon, Cowboy Therapy by Hunter Frost, A Change of Pace by Drew Hunt, Firefly Ranch by Rebecca James, Wild Ride by Kassandra Lea, Guy Walks Into a Bar by Georgina Li, Nephi Takes a Husband by Bob Masters, Flyboys and Cowboys by Michael McClelland, Wild West Show by Rob Rosen, Riding for the Brand by J.D. Ryan, Daniel in Distress by Feral Sephrian, Save a Horse by J.D. Walker, and The Good, the Bad, and the Ojete by Salome Wilde ."

"For months, office worker Kevin Lawrence has carried a torch for Joey Goldman, head driver at the haulage company where they both work. One rainy night, Kevin slips and falls on a patch of motor oil and Joey is there to catch him. Despite being damaged both emotionally and physically from previous relationships, Kevin is helplessly drawn to the dominant trucker. Joey’s muscles and rugged good looks means he never has trouble finding men to take to bed. But no man has managed to get under his skin ... until Kevin. Life for Joey soon becomes complicated. He isn’t out to his family, but feels an increasing need to be Kevin’s Sir -- to love, protect and guide his submissive lover. Can Joey and Kevin make the journey together, or will outside forces and internal fears cause them to travel in opposite directions?"

"A gentle, cosy, and touching romance set in mid-1980's Yorkshire. Simon Peters knows he’s Mr. Average. He works at the local library during the day and goes home to his modest and lonely house at night. Mark Smith was kicked out of home by his drunken father for being gay. Buying a bus ticket, he travels as far as his meagre savings allow. He’s taken in by Jake, but soon realises the man’s darker, criminal side. Trapped, Mark is forced to work the streets. One evening, when the loneliness becomes overwhelming, Simon gathers up his courage and goes to the red light district of the town to buy a little human companionship. As the weeks pass and the weather turns colder outside, both Simon and Mark find warmth and friendship indoors. When an explosion kills Jake and injures Mark, Simon has to make a decision. Can he offer Mark shelter and nurse him back to health without revealing his true feelings for the man?"

"Simon Peters and his partner Mark Smith face a number of challenging life events in the fourth and final volume of this heart-warming saga. Because of his time working on the streets after being kicked out of home by his father, Mark worries he may have contracted HIV. Despite knowing the lack of treatment options if he were to test positive -- this is the late 1980’s before the age of retro-viral drugs -- Mark is determined to know his fate. Things become complicated when Mark receives a letter from his father wanting to re-establish contact. Roy entering their lives presents further challenges, ones which ultimately threaten Simon and Mark’s continued happiness. Gay teens Sam and Billy play an increasingly important part in Simon and Mark’s lives, often regarding the older men as surrogate fathers/big brothers. Can this unconventional family pull together and become stronger, despite all the world has thrown at them?"

"Sequel toMilton’s Hero. Things are looking up for comic book geek Milton Katz. He has a couple of good friends in JJ and Maggie. They’ve introduced him to Steve, a guy Milton hopes might turn out to be more than a friend. Milton is thrilled when Steve invites him to go to Comic-Con. But the next morning at school Steve just walks on by when a couple of jocks try to stuff Milton into his locker. Steve Morrison doesn’t know how to balance being gay and a baseball jock. His indecision may have just cost him Milton’s friendship. Steve knows Milton has a thing for comic book superheroes, so after being urged by Maggie to apologize, he rents aSupermancostume and goes to visit Milton to beg for a second chance. Can Milton trust Steve not to hurt him again? Does Steve have the guts to be Milton’s friend in public as well as in private? Or will it take a genuine superhero?"

"Barry Logan’s day starts out shitty and continues to go down the crapper. His car breaks down in the Middle of Nowhere, Colorado. The only mechanic for miles is out of town, forcing Barry to hole up and await his return. Bored and hungry, Barry goes to the town’s only bar in search of food and entertainment. The former is almost inedible, but his interest in the latter is piqued when two specimens of cowboy perfection walk in. Barry has always had a thing for cowboys, and he’s been on a mission to get up close and personal with as many as possible before flying home to England. Having two cowboys at the same time would be a new experience, and one Barry is eager to try. So when the two men leave the bar, Barry follows in hot pursuit. He overhears them arguing about whose turn it is to bottom that night. Without thinking, Barry offers his services. Jimmy Pierce and Jake Wilson drive Barry back to the Double J ranch for a night of wild passion he won’t forget. The next morning, Barry wakes in an empty bed to a beeping smoke alarm. It seems the ranch cook quit the night before, leaving Jimmy, Jake, and their three ranch hands to fend for themselves. Barry immediately takes charge. His cooking meets with everyone’s approval, and he agrees to stay on both in the kitchen and in Jimmy’s and Jake’s bed. The two cowboys are physically demonstrative, both with each other as well as with Barry, who finds himself falling fast for both of them. It’s like a dream come true -- Barry has two men and a job he loves. But petty jealousies, rivalries, and miscommunications threaten to shatter the dream, and when Barry’s scheming ex shows up, things get even worse. Sandwiched between two cowboy lovers, has Barry bitten off more than he can chew?"

"Gary Levinson is in love with his best friend’s dad. It’s as simple as that. Danny doesn’t think it’s simple. He’s okay with his best friend being gay. He can cope with the idea -- in theory -- that his dad is gay. But Gary and his dad being gay together ...? Neil “Raw” Rawlings doesn’t think it’s simple at all. He’s a well-known rugby league player and Gary is too young, too immature, and too star-struck. Besides, he could do better than an aging sportsman close to retirement. Finally giving in to Gary’s pleas, Raw agrees to sleep with Gary on his eighteenth birthday. But what happens next? Is this a once-only birthday present, or a gift that keeps on giving?"

"By popular demand, all four of Drew Hunt's best-selling Colin and Martin Christmas stories have been brought together in a single box set. Share in Colin Rogers and Martin Kellam’s lives as seen through four very different Christmases: First Christmas-- Blind since birth, Martin orders groceries online. It doesn’t hurt that the man who brings them has a sexy voice. Colin usually leaves Martin’s deliveries until last so he can spend extra time with the man he has a secret longing to protect. When Martin offers to cook Christmas dinner for Colin, will turkey and stuffing be all that’s on the menu? London Christmas-- Colin and Martin got together at Christmas five years ago. But could this be their last? Martin can’t forgive Colin for leaving the gate open, allowing Toby, Martin’s guide dog, to escape and die on the road. Will the spirit of Christmas, the warmth of Colin’s family, and the thrills of London be enough to fix their relationship? Australian Christmas-- While spending Christmas down under with Colin’s uncle Matt, Colin and Martin can’t help but play matchmakers between Matt and Bruce, the foreman on Matt’s sheep station. Can Matt risk his heart to the man he’s loved from afar for years? Goodbye Christmas-- Colin and Martin have one final Christmas with Colin’s parents before emigrating to Australia. When his mum reveals bad news, Colin is torn between family obligation and the future he and Martin have longed for. Can Martin show him he can have both?"

"Five of Drew Hunt's best-selling gay romance stories are together in one box set for the first time! Contains the stories: Colin and Martin's First Christmas: Blind since birth, Martin orders groceries online. It doesn’t hurt that the delivery driver is hot. Colin usually leaves Martin’s deliveries until last so he can spend extra time with the man he has a secret longing to protect. Martin is making soup, and asks Colin to join him. As they eat, Martin offers to cook Christmas dinner for Colin. Will turkey and stuffing be all they’ll share? Rough Road to Happiness: David Grover meets sexy Marine Bud Williams when the two are forced to share a hotel room. What starts as a one-night stand turns into regular weekend trysts, but Bud harbors a secret that threatens to tear them apart. When Bud's injured in Iraq, David struggles to forgive him for his past. It's a rough road to happiness as the two men move towards a life together. Saving Ernest: Ernest Porter is drawn to PC Liam McAvoy after the man saves him from falling in the street. But it can’t go anywhere. Liam isn’t gay, there’s a big age difference, and Ernest is still hurting from a previous betrayal. When Ernest finally confesses all, Liam’s reaction is not what he expects. Something About Trevor: Paul is straight, Trevor is a flamer. But the two soon discover they have many things in common. However, long-held prejudices, fear of history repeating itself as well as an ex lover showing up all threaten to stop what has only just begun. Can Trevor learn to trust again, and will Paul listen to his heart and discover that despite first impressions, there’s just something about Trevor? Trapped Nerves: Two men trapped in an elevator discover they have more in common than the inconvenience of lost time. Mason Grant recognizes Parker Collins, whom he had loved in high school, but Parker does not immediately recognize Mason. Maybe it’s the passage of time ... or maybe it’s the wheelchair in which Mason is confined. What happens when Parker realizes who’s trapped in the elevator with him?"