Today, I have author Jaiyde Thomas in the interview chair. We’re discussing her latest release A Destined Christmas Miracle, book one in the All Access series, a m/m contemporary romance. Don’t forget to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway.
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1. Hi, Jaiyde. First off, readers have an idea of the writer you, but what about the everyday you? Can you share about your personal life?
Jaiyde: Sure. I love everything from music to books to soap operas. Most times, you can find me napping, singing to either Chris Brown or Dayseeker, or screaming at my favorite soap opera, General Hospital.
My interests include playing drums, being outdoors, reading, playing audio games, and HTML coding. I find that these activities bring me joy and fulfillment.
2. I’ve been perusing your Goodreads page and see you are the author of two m/m romances. What drew you to writing in this genre.
Jaiyde: My first encounter with gay romance was when a friend asked me to beta read her novel. At first, I was hesitant, but I love to read, and my favorite genre is romance. I couldn’t put the book down. What drew me in was the plot, how the two men overcame their obstacles, and of course, the steamy sex scenes! I was so hooked that I decided a few years later to write my first gay romance story, and to this day, readers still rant and rave about the uniqueness of it.
My love for the genre grew stronger when I stumbled across K.C. Wells and Parker Williams’ series, Collars and Cuffs. As you may know, I write MM romance with BDSM elements. This series hooked me from page one because of the fact that it was based around a BDSM club. I enjoy reading books in a series where a central place brings all of the characters from each book together.
3. Your latest release is A Destined Christmas Miracle. Can you tell me what inspired you to create this novel?
Jaiyde: K.C. Wells and Parker Williams wrote Make Me Soar, which is a book in their Collars and Cuffs series. That book had me feeling so many emotions, and while I had never experienced what Dorian Forrester went through, the story stayed with me. I don’t want to spoil the book, but Dorian deals with some pretty heavy stuff, and it broke my heart.
A Destined Christmas Miracle touches on some pretty heavy stuff as well, and while Dorian and Colin’s experiences are similar in some ways, there are also major differences. I wanted this book to evoke the same emotions as Make Me Soar, but I also wanted there to be something that set the two books apart. My main focus in writing is including disabled characters. I am a blind author, and while writing, I wanted my readers to get a glimpse into what it’s like to live as a blind person. That is one of the major differences between the two books.
4. Let’s talk about the main characters. What do you love most about Colin and what makes you want to shake him?
Jaiyde: This is a good question. Colin came from a previous book, Claim Me, Love Me, as Josaiah’s fling. After the way things ended between the two, I knew he needed a story. Colin is sweet, caring, and curious. In A Destined Christmas Miracle, he deals with a traumatic event that changes his life. I loved developing him, and the one thing I loved about him was his growth throughout the story. I also loved his openness as he became comfortable talking about his assault.
I hate to say this because of what he was dealing with, but the hesitation and confusion surrounding his feelings for Stephen was sometimes what made me want to shake him. In my head, I’d scream:
“You know you like him! Just tell him already!”
However, I knew that this was all a part of his growth, so I couldn’t be mad. He needed to go through this in order to heal and figure out what he wanted.
5. The same for Stephen. What do you love most about him and what makes you want to shake him?
Jaiyde: Let me start by saying that I love Stephen! He reminds me so much of myself, and I had so much fun writing about his growth as well. He is confident, thorough, and will do anything to ensure Colin’s happiness. I loved seeing him as a Dominant: the ways in which he took care of, guided, and taught his submissive.
I know that this is human nature, and we all have needs, but I think what grinded my gears most about Stephen was how much he wanted Colin sexually. Don’t get me wrong, the sex scene between Colin and Stephen was epic in my honest opinion, but damn! Sometimes, I’d think while writing:
“Put your sexual urges aside for once and think about your boy!”
However, this was all a part of Stephen’s growth. Eventually, what Colin needed became more important than what Stephen wanted.
6. Without giving away any spoilers, what was your favourite scene to write for A Destined Christmas Miracle?
Jaiyde: Oh man! This is hard, so I’ll have to pick two. The first one was the two Thanksgiving scenes. I love including food in my books, so that was fun, planning what my MC’s would eat. I also loved the banter between Colin and his aunt regarding the security guard, and the moment between Stephen and his dad was epic.
BDSM is something that I am fascinated about. My second favorite scene was at the Halloween play party. I enjoyed getting into Colin’s head as a submissive and figuring out his thoughts, feelings, and emotions. The anticipation buildup before Stephen gave him the signal was my favorite part.
7. What makes A Destined Christmas Miracle different from other m/m Christmas romances?
Jaiyde: Interesting question. I haven’t read many MM Christmas romances, but I feel that Colin’s assault paired with the inclusiveness of the club and the feeling that the ending brings is what sets it apart. These men went through so much to be together, and to have a scene in this inclusive BDSM club where successes are celebrated and wounds are healed makes this story different from other MM stories. The scene didn’t happen on Christmas, but there were Christmas elements, and the holiday and the cheer that it brings is a magical time.
8. If a reader asked you why they should read A Destined Christmas Miracle, what would you tell them?
Jaiyde: This book is worth reading, because while it touches on tough subjects, it also covers how to deal with those subjects. It also gives you a glimpse into the life of a blind person, which a lot of people haven’t experienced. In this book, you’ll find acceptance, inclusiveness, finding your safe space after trauma, and love. You will feel many emotions while reading, and I know many readers like to be taken for a ride emotionally.
9. What can we expect from you in the future?
Jaiyde: I have one book written. It is the second book in the All Access series, and it is titled Finally Free. It puts more emphasis on blindness, and how differently life for a blind person can be with a sheltered home life. Book 3 is in the works, and it contains more tough subject matter, that’s all I’m willing to say. There will also be a podcast episode on A Destined Christmas Miracle soon!
10. I enjoy doing random questions, so humour me:
- What’s your favourite movie?
Drumline is my favorite movie. As mentioned before, I enjoy playing drums, and that movie really is my go-to when I need a pick-me-up. - What book is currently in your e-reader?
I am working my way through The Ultimate Guide to Kink by Tristan Taormino. It is an amazing read so far, and I’ve learned so much from reading it! - Who’s your favourite musical group?
I am obsessed with Dayseeker. They are a post hardcore metal band, and their music has helped me through a recent breakup. - What song puts a smile on your face?
Another great question! I’d have to say “Whip My Hair” by Willow Smith. There’s a funny story behind why, but let’s just say that back in high school, I was dressed as Nicki Minaj for Halloween, wig and all. That song came on, and well, you can probably guess the rest.
11. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Jaiyde: Thank you so much for this opportunity. I hope readers get to know a little about me from this post, and I hope it was a fun read!
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Title: A Destined Christmas Miracle
Series: All Access, Book 1
Author and Publisher: Jaiyde Thomas
Genre: Contemporary gay romance
Tropes: Hurt/comfort, BDSM, slow burn
Themes: Learning to trust after trauma, forgiveness, finding yourself
Heat Rating: 3 flames
Length: 136 000 words / 514 pages
Release Date: February 14, 2023
When trauma leaves you unable to trust anyone including yourself, how do you cope?
Welcome to All Access, a new BDSM club that promotes inclusivity. When you step through these doors, you are bound to find equality, acceptance, and even… love.
Colin
For the past year all I’ve known is heartbreak, and going to All Access was supposed to be a distraction from the pain. However, when I see my former play partner happy and in love, I flee the club, vowing never to return.
Leaving Ohio and travelling to Alabama for a few days should help me to clear my head and help me to forget, but no amount of beautiful scenery, hot men, and southern accents could prepare me for what awaited me at the hardcore BDSM club, Flame of Fury.
When I wake to find myself in my hotel room, I’m reeking of vomit and in extreme pain. Nothing makes sense, except for the vaguely familiar man who promises to never leave my side, even after I tell him what I remember.
As I try to put my life back together, Stephen’s loyalty, belief, and kindness never wavers, but can I trust him after all that I’ve endured?
Stephen
I’ve never allowed my blindness to hinder me, and that includes my sex life. As a Dominant, my primary goal is to fulfill the needs of my play partners.
When a heartbroken submissive asks for a scene, my instincts are on alert as I agree, but after ten spankings, Colin flees, and I’m left wondering about the boy with an ache in my heart.
A year later All Access opens, and I’m excited by the prospect of a club that caters to the disabled. More than that, I’m hoping to see Colin again. However, my joy is short-lived, because Colin is in trouble. When I see him respond to an ad that screams DANGER, I refuse to wait around. With a friend in tow I set out to rescue him, but we find him too late: He’s bruised, battered, and alone.
His injuries and trauma are too much for him to bear so I agree to help him through it, but as altruism turns into guiding, nurturing, and training, I can’t help but wonder about the future.
But can I be what Colin needs after all that he’s endured?
This book is intended for readers ages 18+. It is a standalone story and does not end on a cliffhanger.
Goodreads | Universal Buy Link
I smiled at the young man with a gold earring in his ear as he attached a wristband to my arm. They signified ranking: mine was blue, which told men I was a bottom. I scanned the bar’s main area, watching men in various activities. Sensuously groping one another in dark areas of the bar, making out, their eyes only for each other, grinding slowly to the Trey Songz song that pulsed from the speakers.
I closed my eyes as my mind wandered to the last time Josaiah and I were here. I was carrying him out of the bar, his body heavy, not just from his weight, but because of the alcohol he had consumed. I had watched as he downed glass after glass of something or other, his hands and mouth greedily taking what he wanted from multiple men.
I could hear my ragged breathing in my ears and opened my eyes. I swiftly walked to the bar, hoisted myself onto a stool, and waited patiently for the bartender, Joey, to serve me. Maybe I’ll order something strong. It’s not like I am getting fucked tonight. Although on second thought, if I were to get fucked, a non-alcoholic beverage would keep my head clear so that I could remember the experience.
“Yo, man. What can I get for you?”
“A water, please.” Suddenly, I felt like I was going to cry, and the cold beverage would help keep the tears at bay.
“I haven’t seen you since you carried Jo outta here. How is he?” he asked as he filled a cup with ice.
I lowered my eyes, a lump the size of a golf ball forming in my throat.
Please, don’t cry, not here!
“Hey, are you okay?”
“Yes,” I said softly as I took the glass from him, the coldness from the ice cooling my now warm hands. I took a long swig, set the glass on the bar, and regarded Joey. I shook my head. “I’m not sure how he’s doing.”
“Oooh, trouble in paradise?” He looked at me expectantly, awaiting my answer, but I turned my head.
It’s none of your business.
“Okay, so you don’t wanna talk? Why are you here then? You look like you’ve had one helluva week. Want something stronger?”
I dropped my head into my hands, not wanting to divulge the pain, hurt, and anger that I felt. Inhaling deeply to calm myself, I turned back toward him and shook my head.
“Suit yourself,” he muttered as he walked away to serve other patrons.
Sipping on my water, I watched the men. Some wore practically nothing while others wore leather outfits, the material hugging their muscles and curves just right. I tore my eyes away as I watched a twink with a nose ring on his knees, his Dominant’s hand tousling his hair as he reached to fasten a play collar around his neck. I squeezed my eyes shut again, wishing with all my might that I could just forget BDSM altogether.
After meeting Josaiah, I did a little more research into the subject and the different implements used for pain and pleasure. It seemed everywhere I looked, something jarred a memory or a thought of the lifestyle, and I hated it so much! Maybe it was a mistake coming back here. Slamming my glass down on the bar, I raised my hand. One more drink, and I’ll leave. I could feel the tension building in my shoulders.
“Joey!” I snapped, not caring about my tone of voice.
“What’s up?” His eyes were searching my face, concern evident in his expression.
“Another glass of water, please,” I huffed, avoiding his gaze and looked at the patrons surrounding the bar.
Most men were engaged in conversation, but others were eating, drinking, and laughing loudly. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw a man sitting alone at the far-left corner of the bar, and I snickered. His hair is fucking purple!
I focused on his body language: how his folded, hairy arms rested on the bar, his long fingers tapped the glass that he was holding, and he seemed oblivious to the men ogling him.
Why am I looking at other men? I knew that Josaiah and I were over, and he had betrayed me, but I still felt a tug in my heart when I thought about him. Maybe this was a mistake. All I had wanted was to get away from my thoughts of Josaiah, and just be in the moment.
Jaycee’s Saloon was where I used to come and unwind after a long week, getting fucked and sucked, but now all it held were memories, both good and bad. There was nothing left for me here. As I stood to go, I took one last glance at the guy with the purple hair. He seemed not to notice anything around him.
I walked a few steps in his direction to get a better view. Holy fuck! He was hotter up close, the muscles in his arms and back taut, his hair combed back making it appear smooth, his face shaven and clean. I licked my lips and walked closer to the man. I stopped as he turned toward me. He raised his face in my direction, and I couldn’t take my eyes off his. He didn’t look at me directly, and his eyes were cloudy.
Inhaling deeply, I stepped back and squeezed my lips together. He’s blind, could he know Josaiah?
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Jaiyde Thomas is a lover of words and languages. Though her heart is in Alabama, she was born and raised in Ohio. Her first experience with gay romance was when she offered to beta read her friend’s novel. Since then, she’s been hooked on the genre. Her inspirations are Gianni Holmes, K. C. Wells, and Parker Williams, and their books are the reason why Jaiyde started writing.
She loves a good story with complex characters, steamy sex scenes, and happily ever afters.
Follow Jaiyde: LinkTree
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– 1 hardback of A Destined Christmas Miracle
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Maggie Blackbird 