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Tag: Strong Female Characters

Well-developed characters with realistic strengths and weaknesses

Who are the people in this image? #SciFiRomance #PlotTwist #MFRWhooks

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFiRomance #Bodyguard

In this scene from Her Crystal Clear Truth, Shohn and Joe are meeting for dinner and to discuss how Shohn's company, idBot, can help Joe find the person he's looking for.

Who are these people?

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #RomanceThe pleasant meal and minimal small talk gave way to a dessert of cheesecake, a Batchelors specialty. Over the last few scrapes of forks against plates, Shohn asked Joe who he hoped to find.

He brought out a flatpic from an inside pocket. "Read the words on the back, if you can make them out."

"It says, OUR SON'S MOTHER, 4640. Who are the people in this image?"

"The adults are my parents. That was taken at a picnic just before I was born. I have corroborating evidence that puts them there on that same date. They're in a few more photographs too. Bad lighting and focus, but I recognize them."

"On what planet?"

"Trien. My parents were both teaching there at the time. Mother communication and my father climate systems. The party where this was taken was apparently on the surface, at some kind of park. You can see clouds and trees."

Saint-Cyr's "upstairs garden" came to mind. "Were they stationed on the FIST?"

"Yes. For two years."

"Then this was likely taken on the station, rather than the surface. The Facility for Interstellar Ships and Transports has tighter security than the TCF or even idBot. No one's allowed planetside. Once you're on the station, you're on the station. But they have several parks where people can go that simulate being outdoors."

"I had no idea. If she was on the FIST, there should be records."

"I can't imagine why not. You think this is your birth mother?"

"I have DNA evidence that proves I'm not their biological son." He slid the dessert plate aside. "I'm in town to speak at a conference this week. One of my first forays back into work. I was hoping you'd be able to investigate her disappearance while I'm here."

"When you say disappearance, what do you mean?"

"I can't find information about her. It's like she popped into being for that photograph and then slipped away again. There are no records, no recollections." He braced both elbows on the table. "I'm a scientist. I'm used to searching for facts. I deal with details. I hypothesize, theorize, and research. I know this will sound crazy, but it's like someone has tried to erase her existence. There's nothing about her anywhere. No name. Nothing. Even among those who were at the event, no one remembers her or my parents being there." He reached over and touched the photo. "I had a photoborg test this. It's a real image. Not faked. They were there. I didn't know she might have been on the FIST itself. Do you think they'll have records?"

"Possibly. Likely." Her operative had done an excellent job steering him to her. Thankful Joe couldn't smell her emotions, she tamped down the pleasure at having the opportunity to work with him. "I'm curious for my own reasons," she admitted. "I like a puzzle, and this certainly is one. You're passionate about this." She reached over and rested a hand on his for a brief moment. "You deserve to know."

"Then you'll take the job?"

She'd already decided before showing up, but it wouldn't do to reveal that. "Your need captured my attention. I will do my best to find her."

As if all the tension went out of him at once, Joe sank back in his seat. "Thank you. You don't know how much this means to me. I dislike coming up against brick walls where there should be doors."

"Oh, now that I can relate to. Do you have digital copies of these images?"

"Yes. Do you need them now?"

"Please." She picked up her mobile and pointed it at his while he cast the images toward her. A quick examination showed everything had transferred. She sent them straight to her secure work vault. "The images are higher resolution than I'm accustomed to. They won't be difficult to use for searches. Discreet searches."

"When can you start?"

"As soon as we leave this table. I'll contact you with an update, good or bad, by tomorrow afternoon. Count on it."

Antonello Brothers

Antonello Brothers Sci-Fi Romance Series by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Click covers for the buy link.

Series page https://kayelleallen.com/antonello-brothers

Support me by buying direct https://kayelleallen.com/buy-direct/buy-ab/

#SciFi #Romance

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At the Mercy of Her Pleasure by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #SpaceOpera

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle Allen

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

The Antonello Brothers #SciFiRomance #EnterTheEmpire


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


“It must have been a shock” #SciFiRomance #MFRWhooks

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFiRomance #Bodyguard

In this scene, Shohn and Joe meet for dinner and to discuss how Shohn's company, idBot, can help Joe find the person he's looking for. He's just admitted that as a terraformer and scientist, he thinks firestorms have personal agendas. Shohn's boss, Luc Saint-Cyr would be thrilled to know this, since he knows the truth behind the firestorms. Shohn keeps Joe talking, letting him express his feelings.

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #RomanceIt must have been a shock

"I read about the death of your parents. It must have been a shock, being so sudden."

"It was." Joe traced the lip of his goblet. "I've existed in an absolute daze. Most people say how sorry they are for your loss. Offer condolences. I heard it so much I was numb. You know? I couldn't hear the meaning anymore, just the words. All the people I work with also worked with my father. They knew my mother. They knew me since childhood. I was always underfoot during my dad's field work, growing up."

"Your family was close." How she envied that. Missed what she'd once had.

"We were. I worked on every firestorm research project you can think of. But because of my father's theories, his death raised an invisible wall between myself and my colleagues. They treat me like I'm fragile glass. Some days it feels like I'm lost at sea. No sign of a harbor anywhere." He cleared his throat. "Sorry. I didn't mean to ramble."

"Please, don't apologize." She set down her goblet. "I understand better than most what it's like to lose someone under tragic circumstances."

"Do you?" He sipped the wine.

"When I was a girl, the big brother I idolized killed himself."

"I'm so sorry." Joe laid a hand over his heart. "Oh, my god. I just talked about how I hated hearing that and then I go and say it to you."

"It's all right. Saying it is a reflex, but most people don't know what to say next." She flicked one ear. "It's awkward."

He released a long sigh, shoulders slumping. "Is it true that time takes it away?"

Running a fingertip along the lip of her goblet, Shohn shook her head. "It becomes less sharp. Less piercing. But it still hurts. Sometimes a random comment brings it back. The other day, someone was talking about doing a task she didn't want to do, and said, 'If I have to do that I'd sooner kill myself.' She had no idea how her words stung. A slap of ice water in the face. I wish I could give you the time or date when you'll be able to think about their deaths and it doesn't stab you in the gut." She set a fist over her belly. "It'll take a while. In Kin culture, males are gaining rights, but not nearly fast enough. Ours is a repressive society, and that repression is why my brother killed himself. I'm trying to do my part to bring about equality. I'm determined not to let his death be in vain." What was wrong with her, sharing intimate details like that? "Sorry. It's not like me to open up."

Antonello Brothers

Antonello Brothers Sci-Fi Romance Series by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Click covers for the buy link.

Series page https://kayelleallen.com/antonello-brothers

Support me by buying direct https://kayelleallen.com/buy-direct/buy-ab/

#SciFi #Romance

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

At the Mercy of Her Pleasure by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #SpaceOpera

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle Allen

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

The Antonello Brothers #SciFiRomance #EnterTheEmpire


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


You can tell if I’m lying, can’t you? #SciFiRomance #Bodyguard

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #RomanceIn this scene from Her Crystal Clear Truth, Shohn and Joe meet for dinner and to discuss how Shohn's company, idBot, can help Joe find the person he's looking for.

You can tell if I'm lying, can't you?

"What you tell idBot stays with idBot." Shohn tapped one manicured claw on the table. "Like lawyers and clergy. What you say to me I will share with no one."

"My father considered firestorms not as random incidents." Joe chewed his lower lip, his bright-blue gaze focused on Shohn. "Kin know when someone's lying, isn't that right?"

"Human scent gives them away. It's not impossible to lie to us without us knowing, but it is rare."

He leaned back, regarding her. "You'll know what I say is the truth, correct?"

What was he getting at? Did he plan to lie? Odd way to go about it, if so. "I would know whether you believed something was true."

"Okay." Joe squared his shoulders. "My father believed firestorms have a personal agenda."

She considered those words. "What you're saying is he thought the firestorms themselves were planning where to strike."

"Yes. I know it sounds crazy, but when you examine the evidence..." He sighed. "I don't mean to sound condescending, but you wouldn't understand. There are only a handful of people who would, and those few are all in the TCF. But they refused to take him seriously."

If Saint-Cyr could hear this, he would be cheering. Firestorms did indeed have their own agenda, but this was the first time anyone other than an immortal had recognized it.

Gaining Joe's trust might be the key to carrying out both her missions.

Antonello Brothers

Antonello Brothers Sci-Fi Romance Series by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Click covers for the buy link.

Series page https://kayelleallen.com/antonello-brothers

Support me by buying direct https://kayelleallen.com/buy-direct/buy-ab/

#SciFi #Romance

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

At the Mercy of Her Pleasure by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #SpaceOpera

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle Allen

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

The Antonello Brothers #SciFiRomance #EnterTheEmpire


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


Alitus tried to calm his breathing, but his heart raced #MMRomance #SciFi #MFRWhooks

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

In this scene from Alitus, after delivering a speech about the importance of Betters wearing the veil, Alitus returns home. The veil is a physical garment but also electronic. Betters can see out, but no one can see them, or hear their natural voices, and it suppresses their pheromones, which are addictive to "normals."

Tarth City, Palace District
Imperial Palace, Quarters of Alitus Vivaldi

Alitus, Tales of the Chosen #MMRomance #WriteLGBTQ #SciFiAlitus entered his apartments and slammed the door behind him. He yanked off the veil, threw it on the floor, and ran both hands through his hair. Shuddering, he tore off his gloves, cast them onto the table in the foyer, and rubbed his face.

After his speech, he'd returned to his office to find it empty, and his entire staff sent home for the night. He'd come home via the usual way, taking the servant's elevator, but this night, there had been no friendly greetings. No one had looked at him. A few had scurried out of his way.

None of the other Betters who worked in the palace were required to veil. Everyone had to know the one in the veil was him. And now the Empress was probably angry with him. Who else had the authority to dismiss his staff?

Grib didn't make his nightly appearance, so Alitus hung up his own jacket and removed his cufflinks. He listened for a moment, but the place seemed isolated, silent. Apparently, she'd sent his household staff away as well.

He'd showered and dressed himself for an evening at home when a knock sounded at his door. When he answered it, the Empress brushed past him and entered.

"I'm glad you answered. I was worried you wouldn't see me."

"I can't imagine such a scenario, Your Majesty." Alitus shut the door. "May I get you a brandy?"

"Please." She began pacing. She was dressed for work, in her uniform, minus the formal sash. A weapon hung at her side.

Alitus poured some of the new brandy for each of them and brought her a glass.

Destoiya sipped it. "I've been thinking about an incident that happened earlier this year, my love. Something I never explained to you. I believe it's time I did. You remember the day you were taken hostage by that tall blond man." She was watching him, waiting.

How could he forget? Alitus tried to calm his breathing, but his heart raced. "Yes."

"It was foolish of him to come in public like that. He should have contacted—" She shook her head. "Never mind. I never told you who he was."

"You mean—" He bit his lips together and put his head down.

"Go on, love. What were you going to say?"

He peeked up at her. "I did some research on him."

"Did you?" Her surprise gave him a small amount of pleasure and made him feel guilty at the same time. "Tell me what you know."

Tales of the Chosen

Erotic MM Billionaire Age Gap Sci-Fi Romance #MMReads #MMRomance

Wulf is permafree on all retailers.
Warning: Not for readers of "clean and sweet" romance.

#MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen MM Sci-Fi Romance #MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Jawk: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Complete Set Tales of the Chosen Series: All Books in the Erotic Gay Sci-Fi Series


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


“You are never ‘all right,’ my lord. You are perfect.” #MMRomance #SciFi #MFRhooks

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

In this scene from Alitus, Pietas, the immortal king, prepares himself to receive his sister. As was his habit, he's purposefully kept her waiting. This scene gives a little hint as to why.

Le Persequor - lurk mode (invisible), Throne Room
Sumertsag 42, 4664 Tradestandard

Alitus, Tales of the Chosen #MMRomance #WriteLGBTQ #SciFiLord Pietas ap Lorectic mounted the dais of the cavernous throne room, and adjusted the hang of his white fur cape before seating himself. He fussed with its fall around his feet, and finally motioned to his android bodyguard. "The mirror."

Uurah angled the full length glass for him.

Placing his hands on the armrests of the throne, Pietas lifted his chin. The stately pose showed off his long platinum hair, and the satin turquoise lining of his cape. It also reflected the empty chamber with its simple throne.

"No." Pietas stood. "I don't like it. My sister won't be impressed."

"How can she not be, my lord? You are king of the immortals."

"You would think so, Uurah, but this is my twin sister we're talking about. Dessy's not surprised by anything I do. She's been at my side since before we were born. My sister can't even fathom the concept of my birth having occurred before hers being a sign of my superiority. She certainly won't take notice of my clothing or appearance."

"I cannot imagine anyone not being awed by you, Lord Pietas."

"You would say that, Uurah. You're my bodyguard."

Uurah propped the mirror and approached him. "I'm more than your bodyguard, my lord. I'm a sentient being capable of making independent decisions and forming opinions. You yourself gave me that freedom. I would tell you if I disagreed." Uurah inclined his head. "As I have done whenever justified."

"True. To my great annoyance. In fact, I've wished a few times I hadn't made you impossible for me to kill."

"Have you, my lord?" Unlike most androids, Uurah could defend himself. No human could stand against him, and most Sempervians would have difficulty doing so. As a sentient being, under the laws Pietas had written for his people, Uurah had the right to defend himself against anyone, even Pietas himself. Of all the androids in the Sempervian army, Uurah alone had the right to prevent Pietas from destroying him. "Why is that?"

"Because—" Pietas considered a moment. "I created you to appear human." He played with the hang of a sleeve. "You have a better memory than I do. Mine is eidetic, so I never forget, but there are some things I choose not to pay attention to, and you pay attention to all details. You're a good complement for me. Therefore, I need you. Besides, you know the rules of Peril, and you keep me honest when I'm playing. And you and my cat—" He chewed his lower lip, loathe to admit the last.

"The cat and I... what, my lord?"

"Are my only companions."

Uurah smiled. "My lord Pietas, I serve your pleasure. To be considered your companion is my highest honor." He made a bow.

"So you think this cape is all right?"

"Certainly not, my lord. You are never 'all right.' You are perfect."

"I so rarely see anyone." Pietas avoided looking into the dark area behind Uurah. "It's lonely on this ship." He heaved a sigh. "Never mind. Let's stay with this outfit. I've already tried on three, and she's been waiting for..." He paused. "How long?"

"My lord, who would mind waiting for you?"

Tales of the Chosen

Erotic MM Billionaire Age Gap Sci-Fi Romance #MMReads #MMRomance

Wulf is permafree on all retailers.
Warning: Not for readers of "clean and sweet" romance.

#MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen MM Sci-Fi Romance #MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Jawk: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Complete Set Tales of the Chosen Series: All Books in the Erotic Gay Sci-Fi Series


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


You’ve got a mean right hook, you know that? #MMRomance #SciFi #MFRWhooks

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

In this scene from Alitus, Tales of the Chosen, the spymaster Alitus is in the Stable, a harem of male pleasure slaves kept by the Empress. After a brief altercation with Rudy a few days before, Alitus has come to apologize. The groom who oversees security is waiting outside, having warned Alitus not to resort to violence.

Excerpt

Imperial Palace, the Stable
Alitus, Tales of the Chosen #MMRomance #WriteLGBTQ #SciFiKeeper Wing

As the door opened, Alitus turned to face it, lowering both hands to his sides. If he released his pheromones now, it would lower Rudy's resistance. The pheromones gave Alitus a distinct advantage. Using them to coerce, however, was not in his nature.

The man stood in the doorway, blocking the groom's entrance behind him, and made a small gesture. "I got this, Byrin." The door shut behind him.

Alitus steeled himself for confrontation, hyper-aware of Rudy's stillness, like the motionless menace of an animal poised to strike.

Rudy took three steps into the room and halted. He wore gym shoes, socks, loose shorts, and a white towel around his neck. A white headband held dark hair out of his eyes. A fine sheen of sweat covered him. Rudy was built like Alitus, but more athletic, his muscles more defined. Alitus was blond; Rudy brunet. Both blue-eyed, Alitus's were ocean dark, Rudy's, sky pale. Alitus had been bred for intellect, and Rudy for natural earthiness and sensuality.

"How you doin', Alitus?" The man lifted a corner of the towel and wiped his face, dabbing at his nose, which had a bluish tinge on its left side. The color had seeped into the area below his left eye as well.

"This will never work." Alitus shook his head. "We're far too different."

"Yeah, well, nice to see you, too, you smartass." Rudy jerked open the door.

Outside, Byrin stood like a guard dog off its leash, waiting for a finger snap from its master.

"Wait." Alitus held up one hand. "I'm sorry."

No answer at first. Rudy studied him. "For what? That I'm leavin' 'cause I don't have time for your bullshit? Or that you didn't break my nose?"

"Neither." Alitus gestured for him to shut the door, which Rudy did. "I'm sorry we got off to such a bad start. I should have begun this conversation by saying I was sorry."

"Oh, yeah?" Rudy folded his arms. "That supposed to make it all 'better,' Better?" Before Alitus could answer, Rudy put in, "Let's get something straight right up front. I'm doing this for Her Majesty, not you. I don't need your apology or want it, so if that's all you came for, you can go. I'll fill in for you because she asked me to. I don't need another reason."

"Fine, then."

"Fine." Rudy jutted his chin upward.

Neither spoke. Neither looked away.

Alitus let out a long sigh. "Damn it, Rudy, I was a smartass."

A grin stole across the man's face. "You've got a mean right hook, you bastard."

"If it makes you feel any better, my hand still hurts."

The two men met in the middle of the room and shook hands, Alitus still gloved. When Rudy squeezed, Alitus winced.

The other man didn't let go. "What the hell were you thinkin', man?"

Alitus withdrew and rubbed his hand. "She makes me crazy. I didn't think."

Rudy cuffed him on the shoulder. "If I used an excuse like that I'd get thrown out of here."

"Haven't got one better."

"Punny." Rudy wrapped his hands around the ends of his towel. "You do realize what a problem this veil thing is going to be for droid security, don't you? I've been reading up on them. The stuff that keeps the pheromones inside makes it so droids can't read through them to know who's who. An assassin could walk right up to Her Majesty and no one would be the wiser until it was too late."

"I know. That's why they're limiting Better access to her. We won't be able to get an audience until we've been screened. Another way to screw us."

"On a different note, how am I going to get from the Stable to your office without being seen in that Veil thing?"

He lifted one shoulder. "Use the passageway from the Stable to my old office and then go from there. It's the one right outside hers."

Rudy gave him a puzzled look.

"You know." Alitus gestured. "The passage you use when she calls for a Jade during the work day." When no response came, Alitus sighed. "You mean she's never summoned you for a quickie?"

"You bastard." Rudy twisted his mouth in a sardonic grimace. "I'll bet she called you. Which is another reason for me to dislike you."

Alitus rocked on the balls of his feet.

"You smug son-of-a-bitch. Why I like you is beyond me."

Tales of the Chosen

Erotic MM Billionaire Age Gap Sci-Fi Romance #MMReads #MMRomance

Wulf is permafree on all retailers.
Warning: Not for readers of "clean and sweet" romance.

#MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen MM Sci-Fi Romance #MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Jawk: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Complete Set Tales of the Chosen Series: All Books in the Erotic Gay Sci-Fi Series


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


Live forever. Not trust forever. There’s a difference #SciFi #MMRomance #MFRWhooks

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Live forever, not trust forever. When covert alignments, mistrust, mistakes, and regrets dominate everyday life, you need a CHOSEN. While it's good to trust, you must also trust the right person.

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomanceMy heroes live forever, and need trustworthy Chosen companions. But what if one of them was not what you thought? What if the person you loved didn't love you? Would you want to live forever surrounded by traitors? Who wants to live forever -- all alone? No one. Therefore, you must only choose someone you can trust.

What it means to be CHOSEN

Called to serve
Honored to protect
Obedient to the vow
Safeguards of the truth
Enablers of life
Neutralizers of threats

In the secret society of the Chosen, a group of mortals who serve the immortal Sempervians, being gay or straight is no different from being brown-eyed or blue-eyed. No one notices or cares. But disloyalty among the Chosen is punishable by death, and in this trilogy, everyone's loyalty is questioned.

Covert alignments, mistrust, mistakes, and regrets pepper the playing field. Both the Chosen and the Sempervians harbor enemies and spies within their ranks -- some known and tolerated, others concealed behind layers so convoluted eternity isn't long enough to figure them out. When you factor in multiple allegiances and aliases, knowing who to trust takes on a whole new level of danger -- especially if you live forever.

Excerpt

In this scene from Alitus, Tales of the Chosen, the spymaster Alitus visits the Stable, a harem of male pleasure slaves called Jades kept by the Empress, whom he serves. The night before, the Empress suggested Rudy, one of the Jades, could fill in for Alitus. Having the "normal" Rudy replace him set off the temper of the usually placid Alitus. This moment takes place the next day.

Imperial Palace, the Stable
Keeper Wing

Alitus presented himself at the Stable groom's office.

Byrin oversaw the literal army of identical androids involved in caring for the Jades. The middle-aged human was handsome enough to be a Jade himself, yet Byrin's relationship with the Empress always seemed professional. She'd never shown the least interest in him. The man welcomed him and gestured to a chair in the small office.

"Great to see you again, Alitus. Is this imperial business?"

"Personal." He started to strip off his gloves, decided against it, and smoothed them back over his fingers. "I came to see Rudolf Brakovsky."

Byrin perched against the edge of a compact desk. Monitors filled the opposite wall, revealing the Jades in various activities. "If this is about the bloody nose from the other night it's my duty to remind you that any provocation between Jades is prohibited. I know you're no longer a Jade." He held up a hand to prevent interruption. "But Rudy is. I don't want to put him in a compromising situation."

"I won't touch him." Alitus crossed his legs. "I owe him an apology."

Byrin studied him a moment, his expression grave. "If you didn't represent Her Majesty the way you do, I wouldn't permit this. Rudy's a good guy."

He resisted the urge to hang his head and instead, met the man's unflinching gaze. "Yes, he is. Which is why this is important."

"I never expected violence from you, Alitus. When you lived in the Stable, you were the one everyone looked up to, even though you were the youngest. From the first day you entered the Stable, they called you 'Mr. Perfect.' When you were out of earshot, of course, but the guys like you despite the fact you were special to Her Majesty."

"I..." Alitus tugged his gloves on a little tighter. Liking him was an after-effect of his pheromones, but Byrin didn't need to know that.

Would Alitus ever have a true friend without being influenced?

Byrin stared as if waiting for a reply.

Alitus cleared his throat. "Thank you. I don't know what to say."

"Hell, man." Byrin threw out his arms. "She created the 'Lover' level so she could put you above the Keepers. No one else has ever been in it. You know how crazy that makes these guys? Yet not one of them would say a single bad thing about you. And that isn't because of the rules here. You know that?"

Alitus lowered his lashes.

"What the hell got into you?"

"I'd rather not discuss it, Byrin." Alitus smoothed the crease in a pant leg. "Consider it a momentary lapse of reason and let it go, please. Her Majesty has. I'm here to ask Rudy for forgiveness. Isn't that enough?"

Byrin glared as if about to argue, but then brushed off his pants, and stood. "All right. Suit yourself. Take it easy while I go find him. At this hour, he's working out." Byrin searched the bank of monitors for a moment before he excused himself and left.

Alitus thrust himself to his feet and paced. He could do this. Get it over with and get back to work. For two days, he'd done nothing but argue with himself about coming here. Time to put it in the past and move on. How could he have doubted Her Majesty's intentions?

She had not chided him. Although she had not told him to apologize, she had to expect it. "Jealousy does not become you, Alitus. You know you have my respect. You know that. I would never dishonor you."

Clasping his hands before his mouth, he tapped them against his lips. He must control himself. He was going to need Rudy's help.

Tales of the Chosen

Erotic MM Billionaire Age Gap Sci-Fi Romance #MMReads #MMRomance

Wulf is permafree on all retailers.
Warning: Not for readers of "clean and sweet" romance.

#MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen MM Sci-Fi Romance #MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Jawk: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Complete Set Tales of the Chosen Series: All Books in the Erotic Gay Sci-Fi Series


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


He hid in plain sight #SciFi #Romance #MFRWhooks

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

In this scene from Alitus - Tales of the Chosen, the hero is making his first public appearance in a veil, a head-to-shoulders garment similar to a burqa. Betters are enhanced humans whose pheromones can addict and whose voices put a human in thrall. Now regulated by the imperial government, they must wear an electronic veil that alters their voices and captures their pheromones.

Excerpt

Alitus tilted back his head and set a hand atop the veil to keep it from slipping.

Prentice approached. The android servant and bodyguard of the Empress towered over everyone.

Great. Just what he needed. "What do you want, Prentice?"

"Her Majesty asked me to watch over you." Though never far from the Empress, Prentice did not make his presence obvious. Easy to forget he was there.

"You've watched me. Tell her I don't need a watchdog. I will do my duty."

"Is the veil heavy? You keep lowering your head."

"No." Alitus adjusted the hang across his shoulders and pulled it away from his body in front. "It's hot. I can hardly breathe."

"Perhaps you should turn it on."

"What?" Alitus held the veil against his face so he could better see. "It's hard to hear."

"Touch the inner brim above your right ear."

Alitus stroked one finger along the edge. "There's a series of small bumps."

"Press them from front to back to increase the cooling effect."

Bracing himself for a breeze, Alitus touched the first bump. Instead, the humidity lessened. He took the first deep breath he'd been able to draw since donning the garment. "Thank you."

"The bumps about a finger's width above them adjust visibility. Did no one show you how to operate it?"

"No. I didn't know there was anything else to it." Alitus touched the upper controls; the room's brightness increased by half. He tapped the others in sequence until his view of the veil disappeared. "Is this still opaque?" He held up a hand. "I can see every stitch in my glove."

"You'll be able to see in any lighting, but no one will be able to see you."

"Great. I'll be invisible."

Prentice leaned toward him. "Almost like an android."

Tales of the Chosen

Erotic MM Billionaire Age Gap Sci-Fi Romance #MMReads #MMRomance

Wulf is permafree on all retailers.
Warning: Not for readers of "clean and sweet" romance.

#MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Wulf, Tales of the Chosen MM Sci-Fi Romance #MMRomance #MMReads #SciFi

Alitus: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Jawk: Tales of the Chosen #WriteLGBTQ #SciFi #MMRomance

Complete Set Tales of the Chosen Series: All Books in the Erotic Gay Sci-Fi Series


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


She was his only hope, and she was leaving #SciFi #Romance #MFRWhooks

For Her Only by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle AllenIn this excerpt from For Her Only, Ambassador Mehfawni Ruh has just discovered that her brother, Dallon, has been murdered. She must return to her home planet. But she's also Khyff's only hope of saving his brother.

She was his only hope

The chill in the room had nothing to do with air temperature. Now that Mehfawni knew about her brother's death, the collective gaze of her all-female staff stabbed into Khyff. He didn't need telepathy to read their thoughts. Their body language shouted at him.

Be gone, alien. Get out. You don't belong here.

Fawni's eyes filled with tears as she looked up at him.

Khyff melted. No matter how much the others hated him and wanted him gone, he couldn't leave her alone with this kind of news. What if it had been Senth who'd died? That possibility was all too real.

Khyff wrapped both arms around her and held her tightly against him, his cheek against her hair. "Oh, Fawni, I'm so sorry."

She clutched his leather jacket and clung to him as if all the strength had seeped out of her. He stroked her hair and kissed her brow.

"This can't be true." Her voice was muffled against his jacket. She turned and faced Kata. "There's been a mistake. It has to be wrong."

Kata didn't lift her gaze. "I'm sorry, Eetzesar. The news came directly from Tzesar Ehldani."

Khyff expected Mehfawni to crumble. She shook, but she drew herself up to her full height and took two steps away from him. With one hand on Kata's arm, she looked around the room at her staff. Ten Kin gazed back at her, their expressions full of pride and sorrow.

She cleared her throat. "Thank you. All of you. Kata, when do we return home?"

The young assistant looked up, revealing the tracks of tears on her face. "At dawn, Eetzesar."

He wanted to hold Mehfawni, bring her back into his arms, but she kept her back rigid, her head high.

"Good, Kata. I'll need you to help me with a few things." She told the others, "Get some rest. We'll all need our strength when we get home. Kata, stay, please."

Her staff dispersed quietly, and Mehfawni reached back and held Khyff's hand while she talked softly to Kata in her breathy native language.

What was he going to do now? Images rose in Khyff's mind. Senth swathed in bandages, lying in the hospital. NarrAy trapped in a glass cage. Both depending on him for their freedom. For their lives. And all he could do was stand here and hold Mehfawni's hand while the hope he had for saving them made arrangements to leave.

"Senth Antonello."

Khyff's attention riveted to Mehfawni's words. "What?"

She looked up at him. "You're such a male, Khyffy. Here I am making arrangements for your brother and his fiancée, and you're not even paying attention."

"Arrangements? What kind of arrangements?"

"You didn't hear a word I said, did you?"

"Well, you were speaking Felis, so I couldn't understand you."

"Oh." She touched her chin. "That was rude of me. I'm sorry."

"Don't apologize. You're upset. It's natural. What arrangements?"

"I can't leave you, Khyffy. I want you to come home with me."

His stomach went all hollow and his head light. His chest ached. He couldn't catch his breath, couldn't speak.

Felidae? Kin. Enemies. And...Mehfawni. He breathed. "I... Mehfawni, my brother... I—"

"Khyff, I know you can't leave when you're worried about your family. I couldn't do that either. So Kata's going to make sure my diplomatic immunity is extended to Senth and his fiancée. NarrAy's a Better, isn't she?"

"Yes, but—"

"Then your brother is addicted to her. He'll need her pheromones if he's going to heal properly. We need to get her out of prison so they can be together."

"Mehfawni, I don't understand." His heart pounded so hard, he was afraid he wouldn't hear her answer. Was this what hope felt like? Was there some way to keep Sen and NarrAy safe and escape the Conqueror's choke hold?

Mehfawni gave him a look that said he should try to pay attention, and then she grasped both his hands. "I read their story in the news, remember? It wasn't fair of the police to imprison her for defending her mate. At the time, I thought there wasn't anything I could do, but now that I know it's your brother, I can do something. If you come home with me as part of my entourage, you'll have diplomatic immunity, which extends to your family as well, if I wish it." She squeezed his hands. "And I do wish it."

Not if Mehfawni found out what he'd been sent to do, she wouldn't.

Khyff floundered, awash in a sea of emotion. His hope dashed on the rocky shore of reality, but he drew her hands to his mouth and kissed the back of each one. Maybe her diplomatic immunity could buy him time to find a permanent solution. Maybe she was still his best hope.

Antonello Brothers

Antonello Brothers Sci-Fi Romance Series by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Click covers for the buy link.

Series page https://kayelleallen.com/antonello-brothers

Support me by buying direct https://kayelleallen.com/buy-direct/buy-ab/

#SciFi #Romance

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At the Mercy of Her Pleasure by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #SpaceOpera

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle Allen

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

The Antonello Brothers #SciFiRomance #EnterTheEmpire


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.

Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.


“Yes, yes. Don’t be tedious” #SciFi #Romance #MFRWhooks

For Her Only by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle AllenMeet the bad guys from For Her Only. In this scene, Empress Rheyn Destoiya had been planning a pleasant evening but her twin brother, Pietas, instigated a riot among her Praetorian Guard and took her assistant hostage. She disarmed Pietas, sent everyone else away and is now alone with him. The scene takes place in her palace office.

Meet the Bad Guys

"Why the drama, Pietas?"

"Your assistant wouldn't let me see you without an appointment."

"You insufferable..." She palmed the weapon fastened beneath her desk, then withdrew it and aimed at his head.

Pietas laughed, but he raised his hands. "I should've known you'd be armed."

With her other hand, she picked up his weapon and aimed it at him. "Ambidextrous, remember?"

He started to put his hands down and she thumbed his weapon to full. He lifted his hands back up. "Fine, Dessy. But I had to see you, and he wouldn't let me in. You know how I hate waiting."

"For that, you made my favorite your hostage and instigated a riot among my Praetorian?"

He lifted one eyebrow.

She sighed and clicked the safeties into place on both weapons. "What do you want?"

"I haven't seen you in twenty years, and that's all you have to say to me?"

"It's been eleven, and I shouldn't have seen you for at least ten more. And you had no right to interfere with anyone I claim as mine. Don't you ever touch Alitus again. If you do, I'll kill you in every way you hate." She tapped the desk. "And I know them all, my dear brother. Is that clear?"

He twisted his mouth. "Fine. I won't touch your pet."

"Or allow anyone within your control or influence to do so. So help me, Pietas, promise me or I'll—"

"Yes, yes. I promise. Don't be tedious." He dropped his lean frame into a wingback chair. "Besides, you're impossibly nasty when anyone touches your pets."

She scoffed. "Fine. Tell me what you want."

Antonello Brothers

Antonello Brothers Sci-Fi Romance Series by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

Click covers for the buy link.

Series page https://kayelleallen.com/antonello-brothers

Support me by buying direct https://kayelleallen.com/buy-direct/buy-ab/

#SciFi #Romance

Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

At the Mercy of Her Pleasure by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #SpaceOpera

For Her Only #SciFiRomance by Kayelle Allen

Her Crystal Clear Truth by Kayelle Allen #SciFi #Romance

The Antonello Brothers #SciFiRomance #EnterTheEmpire


It's Book Hooks!

Marketing for Romance Writers Book HooksBook Hooks is a weekly cooperative blog hop hosted by members of Marketing for Romance Writers as part of the MFRW Authors Blog.
It's a chance each week for you to discover current works in progress or previously published books by possibly new-to-you authors.
Thank you for stopping by.

Links below lead to the sites of other authors also taking part. You can "hop" from mine to theirs with one click.

Feel free to say hello or leave a note in the comments.


Download a printable book list or a list of trigger warnings for all books. Claim your immortality by signing up for my newsletter

Immortal Reviews Rock & Rule - Join the Review Team


~ Copyright ©2025 Kayelle Allen. All rights reserved ~ Kayelle Allen participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates program, an affiliate advertising program which provides the means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com. If you purchase an item listed on the site from Amazon.com, Kayelle will earn a small commission. Other sites might be affiliate links as well. These will not result in higher prices for you. Thank you for your support!

My characters may be found in multiple books in my story universe. Pietas images Nik Nitsvetov as Pietas cosplay.