Deserted roads paint over the horizon, nothing but blowing sand and ruined buildings as far as the eye can see, though civilization still manages to stand, Townsfolk are living normal, rather different lives, pubs ranging throughout the waste land, as well as other establishments and homes, but alas, no place will ever be a Utopia. As the rise of need for weapons grow, so does the crime and murder, a man that goes by Matthew Blacksmith, chose to avoid main civilization, and stays alone, but when that goes wrong, he must trust those whom wronged him, travel across Burnt America, and fight a common enemy, fight a Corrupt Government.

As Alpha of the Blood Moon Pack, Everette Blackwood is required to find her mate. She's not too sold on the idea of needing a man at her side. When she stumbles across him in the middle of the night, chained to a tree, she just might do anything to keep him safe. But when he aims a gun full of silver bullets at her head, she wants nothing more than to tie his ass back to the tree. This mysterious mate of hers, however, isn't what he seems with secrets buried in her parents' past that may threaten her position as Alpha. If that wasn't enough, the rogues are acting out. They're multiplying daily, attacking the pack constantly and preparing to overthrow the female Alpha. A war is brewing. One that is bigger than anything her pack has ever dealt with before. One that might end the Blood Moon pack forever. But would she survive her mate before the war? Warning: This story will make you laugh your heart out, ugly cry, demand an adorable idiot in a frilly pink apron and crave ice-cream. ~**Standalone**~ ~~~ Rankings: #10 in werewolf (20/11/20) #3 in wolf (07/11/19) #9 in romance (14/08/20) #78 in humor (07/11/19) © 2020 All Rights Reserved

Emery Aiken has always lived in a mysterious and eerie village. Growing up with folktales about a fictitious creature being whispered around the campfire. Never once believing a word said. Thinking it was all just a hoax while the other girls prepared for the ritual that takes place every 20 years. What is this peculiar ritual you ask? This tradition, known as The Ritual to The Beast happens every 20 years under a blood moon. Girls between the ages of 16 to 19 are chained in the forest. Chained so they wouldn't be able to run. Run from what? THE BEAST! One girl is sacrificed. And what happens after? Guess you're going to have to read to find out. ~~~ Highest Ranking: #1 in werewolf (02/06/19) #1 in humor (18/06/19) #5 in romance (27/06/19) © 2020 All Rights Reserved

"Are you sure you want to do this?" I asked Xander, my voice void of any emotions. I was in my warrior stance in front of the whole pack. Back straight, hands folded in front of me and feet shoulder-width apart. I know I looked composed because that's my training. Be composed; don't lose control. Don't lose the battle. But all I wanted to do was run into his arms. Beg him to reconsider. Promise him that I would be the best for him. "I, Xander Valverde, Future Alpha of The Nightfall Pack reject you Anala Rozinov as my mate." With those words, I felt our bond begin to break. It was agonizing like being whipped and have those wounds have acid poured on them. That burning sensation started in my heart, and I felt it spread throughout my body. I took a shaky breath but remained cold and emotionless. I needed to leave quickly; I need to find somewhere safe. "I, Anala Rozinov, Daughter of Beta Keone Rozinov accept your rejection as your mate," I replied my voice, surprisingly even and cold. "You are now free to join the Alpha King's Army. Please go pack your things and report to my office. The King will be sending someone to collect you." He said, his voice rough with emotions. "Sorry Alpha. But I have decided I will go rogue." There were gasps among the crowd. The Alpha looked appalled this wasn't a part of the plan. No one refused the King. But I refuse to be another playing card for another pack. No more. I want my freedom. If my mate isn't it, I will find my own way. PS: I do not own any of the images used within the story; they have been borrowed from Pinterest or Google and belong to their respected owners. #TheLitAwards2019