Soultaker

Jake closed his eyes.

Lamia’s hands closed another notch tighter around his throat.

The slow, rocking rhythm gave way to a more frenzied one. The headboard banged against the wall as Jake grabbed Lamia’s arms and held on. It went on for a long time. Jake feared she would break him in half before it was over. Then it was over and he was still intact, at least physically. She drew him into her arms and wrapped a leg around his midsection, holding him tight, not letting him move.

She whispered in his ear. “Now I have to punish you. Teach you a lesson. The first of many.”

Jake tried to scream.

She didn’t let him.

Acknowledgments

Some readers of this book may imagine they detect a whiff of autobiography within these pages. This is not the case. While I do share one or two superficial things in common with the protagonist, Jake McAllister, he is not meant to represent me in any way. I come from a much, much less deprived background, and I was raised by wonderful parents who always did their best by me, even when I was struggling. Without the love and support of my mother, Cherie Smith, and Lo

Thanks also go out to the usual cast of colorful characters and friends: Sha

Last, but not least, thanks to the readers for buying enough of these things to keep them coming.