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Stable Secrets

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Hey everybody… I’ve put together a hot and sexy mpreg gay romance bundle that I KNOW will keep you up late! Over 280,000 words of passionate, intense romance, including five of my personal favorite stories.

First there’s The Hard Way: single dad omega Noah meets privileged bad-boy Isaac. In Chosen Family, three gorgeous guys compete for love: Eric, the omega and personal assistant to hockey player Thomas, and Daniel, the sexy architect. Exploring the Cosmos will have you starry-eyed as astrology student omega Reagan and bartender alpha Cosmos find themselves wrapped in an over-the-moon romance. In Seeking Enrique, fantasy author Rick and his hot agent, Jules, are magically drawn to one another in a classic opposites-attract dilemma neither one can resist. And finally, in Stable Secrets, two of my favorite characters – stable hands Sam and Colton – race towards an unforgettable romance.

If you’re read my books before you already know: my gay mpreg romance stories are STEAMY! So, adults only, please.

I hope you love reading these stories as much as I loved writing them.

Love and hugs,

-Austin

886 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2017

159 people are currently reading
93 people want to read

About the author

Austin Bates

84 books314 followers

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5 stars
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47 (21%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
Profile Image for Tj.
1,715 reviews20 followers
June 8, 2017
Extremely sweet and fluffy.
Profile Image for blub.
2,040 reviews
October 25, 2017
There are seven stories within the bundle. A majority are novel length and a few are novella length. About six of them are contemporary mpreg stories and one is a bit of medical thriller mpreg story.

Stable Secret
Sam is an omega constricted by his family’s ideology and expectations. He spends his days taking care of his family horses that his mother just keeps collecting on a whim. When his mother hires on a Groom, Colton, to help take care of the horses; Sam is incensed and hurt. Sam and Colton don’t get along mostly because Sam is hostile. But Colton’s kindness shines through and wins Sam over. The two start up an easy friendship that leads to more and unexpected consequences.

While I enjoyed reading the story and thought Sam was funny at times. I felt there were some discrepancies. How did Sam’s mom bust into Sam’s room after Colton deflowers him when Colton told him to lock the door and Sam did so. As for Colton, I was curious about his background, what kind of celebrity he was and how his father played into it all. I liked the detail in which the author took with Sam and his family it really told and painted a picture of how Sam’s life was and the situation he had to deal with.

Seeking Enrique
Jules is a literary agent trying to track down one of his writers who pseudonym is Enrique R. Dominquez and is having trouble since the guy seems to be dodging him. To make matters worse his boyfriend of about a year breaks up with him. When he finally tracks down the elusive writer they end up getting stuck at the writer’s home because of storm conditions. Rick is the elusive writers and he’s socially inept. He also has panic attacks when faced with meeting strangers. When Jules tracks him down to start book touring Rick makes his argument and they end up caught up in a storm and stuck in Rick’s cabin. During that time the two become intimate but it doesn’t fix their underlying issues. Misunderstanding ensues and Rick disappears causing Jules to use all his resources to find Rick.

I found Jules to be quite overbearing and I could relate with Rick’s feelings about Jules behavior. I didn’t like him at times. I loved Rick’s innocence and I felt I could understand him since we kind of shared some similar traits. I liked his bookish, skittishness and that he wasn’t afraid to standup for himself when he needed to and also faced his fears even though he didn’t want to. It was a nice enemies-to-lover/opposite attract story.

The Hardway
Noah Wilson finally seems to have his life on track. He's been hired at a successful and prominent law firm; is a single father who has a seven year old, and is still living with his mom. Cullen (Noah’s ex and co-parent) and Andrew, his fiancé, is also a part of their lives. At the prestigious law firm Noah's assigned a desk mate, Issac Fitzgerald002E. The two don't exactly hit it off but are on friendly terms. Issac wouldn't mind having some fun with Noah. But Noah isn't interested in having a relationship. When Noah realizes he should start living again he turns to Issac. The two start up a causal relationship that ends abruptly until Noah finds himself in a situation he feels he has to share with Issac.

There wasn’t anything about this story I particularly liked or disliked. It just didn’t resonate with me and I could have done without reading it. Any issue that popped up between the characters were quickly and quietly resolved. Which lead to a clean cut read with a bit of splash. I did find think that Noah drinking vino after (well three weeks after) birthing his child was kind of concerning. There was also never any mention of how the baby was cared for whether they were being breastfed or fed formula. I felt curious about those details and I was also curious about the birthing process and anatomy since those weren’t given in detail. I also didn’t liked that for this story the POV kept on changing so that readers could get a feel of how the main characters and secondary characters were feeling about certain events.

Chosen family
Eric Stapleton is the personal assistant to Thomas Gardner, a former professional hockey athlete, though mostly it also feels like he’s a manager and nanny all rolled into one. Daniel Hannigan is the architect in charge of renovations for Thomas home. Eric keeps Thomas life on track which isn't an easy thing since Thomas is a bit flighty. Daniel is interested in Eric and has to contend with Thomas for Eric's attention. Eric falls for Daniel's charm but Thomas has come to a realization of his own and it involves Eric. What's Eric to do when two men are fighting over him?

I couldn’t quite appreciate this one. It started out very well but towards the end I started to really hate it. Daniel wasn't a very likable character and I didn't like any of his character traits. Thomas, I could stand better but I didn't think Eric should have ended up with either but I definitely didn't think the one who knocked him up was the better choice. I felt bad for Thomas and the self-sacrifice he took to keep his family safe. I wish he had had a happier ending at the end. I didn't really think mpreg fit in that well with this story. I felt it was an add-on the author decided on that didn't really blend well. Truthfully after reading through the stories all in one going there is repetitiveness present in each story. Which is, pregnancy is more or less something that happens due to lax safe sex and doesn't matter if it's once or more and the character pregnant is insecure about how the other party will react.

Exploring the Cosmos
Reegan is a student strapped for cash who sees a guy advertising a experiment study of some sort. Cosmo is a bartender that is also In need of funds since he's in debt. Both see the study as beneficial, neither know each other but their meeting and decision to participate will change their lives.

I kind of started off a little reluctant to read the story which made me initially dislike it. It started off okay and actually built up to an intriguing story. I liked the idea of a mad scientist preying on unsuspecting individual altering them in some way and letting the victims deal with the after fall. I thought Reegan and Cosmos decision to move forward in their relationship was something they didn't quite think through what with what info they were given. It was interesting the hoopla that it all caused and the consequences that developed because of their decisions.

The Kitchen
Eric Barnes is an aspiring chef waiting for his big break which comes in the form of being an apprentice chef on a celebrity cooking show. Unable to get his unsupportive bf, Josh, to move with him. Eric heads to NY to start his dream job. When Seth, an intern, suggests they go out on a night of the town. Eric decides to throw caution to the wind and enjoy his newly single status. He meets Adam Wright, an alpha, at the club and they hook up. Eric isn't looking for anything serious and at first neither is Adam until after they hook up.

Adam was a confusing character in the club it didn't seem like Eric was his type since he said it was unexpected that Eric would be the one to approach him being an omega and whatnot. Then once the two sleep together he's all gung ho about seeing Eric again. I liked that Eric had his eyes set on the prize and had Adam chasing him. I liked that he laid it all down and even when he had an urge to see Adam he wasn't the one looking for the dude to hookup. I felt it was short and very to the point compared to the other stories.

Stirrin up a Scandal
The story follows Seth story whom first appeared in "The Kitchen" as an intern and made fast friends with Eric. Its been about a year since Eric's come on the show and it seems he's taken over for star host. Seth isn't as happy with his career success as Eric and can't help but be envious of his friend. He really tries to ignore it going as far as to distance himself from his friend lest his feelings show since he can't help it. When a party is thrown to honor Eric, Seth can't avoid it and goes. He ends up meeting an older successful gorgeous alpha. Harrison seems like a good time and he's into Seth but Seth can't see their budding relationship going far.

I liked that Harrison was the one trying to win the reluctant Seth over. I like their chemistry and wished there had been more in their story. Like the previous story "the kitchen" I wished the author had spent more time developing it like the other stories in the bundle. I really enjoyed reading Harrison and Eric’s blooming relationship and interacting. I believe this was my favorite couple.

An ARC copy was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Jessica Mitchell.
2,051 reviews20 followers
October 20, 2017
Stable Secrets
Austin Bates

A gay romance story that has opposites attracted to each other. One from the hollywood world and one from a big town but he's the mayor's omega son. You will love this hardcore dislike to full out love romance novel.
Sam Hemingway is tired of all the things his family heeps up on his shoulders. Everything seems to be his fault. And to boot his father is blaming him for being a omega male. Will he ever find his way in the world and that someone special.
Colton Sharp is a hollywood star's son. But he tired of the lime life with his father. Who controls every little bit of his life right down to the seconds. But when a chance to get away comes up he takes it and finds work as a stable hand at the Hemingway house. And though the employers are "nice", he's more interested in their cute son Sam. Who seems to hate him right of the bat. Can he get under his skin and make him his?
Profile Image for Coral Mitchell.
3,189 reviews
October 22, 2017
Stable Secrets
Sam and Colton have had similar experiences even though they have very different lives. Their controlling parents want to rule their lives. I suspect who sold out their location, but it was never revealed in the story. A few things left unfinished.

Seeking Enrique
Rick is an author, and his agent, Jules, believes him to be an unreasonable diva. Rick appears to have some sensory issues and he does not deal well with people. Jules seems insensitive to Rick's problems, even when he tries to explain them. Some world insight leading up to Rick's surprise would have made this phenomenal. I was just as surprised as Jules.

The Hardway
Isaac is very self centered and has never grown up. He went to college and chose his career to please his father. He never wanted to be a lawyer, but like everything else in life, he only does what his father tells him to. Noah grew up quickly and at a young age. Taking care of a child will do that. He is very focused, at times too much, takes things a little too far, and is a workaholic. The turning point was a bit quick, but a good read.

Chosen Family
Eric is wonderful but downplays his talents. He thinks he lucks out and gets the job as Thomas' personal assistant. Thomas is quite difficult and very unpredictable. Daniel is super caring and wants more with Eric but Eric is unsure of what he should do when his personal and professional lives combine. An great journey for these three men.

Exploring the Cosmos
Reagan and Cosmos meet at a clinical trial they both volunteered for. The reasons for the trial area thinly veiled mystery, but have life altering results for the two. I enjoyed reading about their budding relationship, facing this new challenge together, and Reagan's wonderful parents.

The Kitchen
Eric is finally feeling successful in his chosen career and away from the boyfriend who put him down. He does not want a relationship and believes it will mess up his professional life. He meets Adam during one of his nightly bar hops and the Alpha is persistent in trying to spend time with him. Eric's attitude is frustrating and there is no indication of where he picked it up.

Stirrin Up a Scandal
Seth is an intern on the cooking show Sizzlin' Kitchen and feels he has gotten no where in the last two years. Him meeting Harrison, an owner of the studio, is surprising but he does not want it to influence his job in any way. They have a few years separating them, but their relationship is hot and progressing quickly.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Deirdre.
1,571 reviews16 followers
June 19, 2017
Family Drama / Secrets....Truth Will Out

Usually in most MM books I read one guy has a great family and the other's family is not good with him being gay. But in this story both sons are a part of families that leave a lot to be desired. Each family effects their son's personality in different ways. Sam became a "crabby patty" and while Colton was sullen at home he was very personable away from home. Together these two men happily balanced each other. But apart they reverted back to their original personalities. Cold, selfish, narcissistic parents demonstrated their contempt for their child & his choices with regularity.

Secrets create many problems, such as expose fissures in relationships, make the person who doesn't know what's really happening miserable, compounds the guilt of the one keeping the secret keeper, and creates or deepens mistrust. The hurt is terrible and unnecessary.

While fondness can increase during an absence, so can irritation and contempt. Staying the way for your right reasons, could be completely wrong for someone else.
For every action there is a totally opposite reaction, as Colton learns by his behavior toward Sam.

There are Alpha and Omega dynamics in this story, though the main characters defy the stereotypes. The ingrained negative beliefs about Omegas are still perpetuated. This is not a shifter story, but the Alpha and Omega behaviors are evident. Even causing the characters to act more angry or aggressive in seeming opposition to their "birth label". At the same time helpless to overcome society's ingrained notions.

Once secrets are revealed and the truth comes out, these two men have some very important decisions to make. Austin Bates second book is equally as engaging as the first. But one thing I distinctly dislike is when the impregnated male is called the " mother " of the child. I personally prefer the terms, "carrier" or "bearer" or simply the father. Otherwise I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
871 reviews2 followers
October 22, 2017
This is bundle with 7 books. An enjoyable book with good writing. The plots were entertaining and it was steady throughout the book. I found the stories and characters likeable. The characters were well developed and thought out. Stable Secrets: Sam Hemingway an Omega and Colton Sharp an Alpha are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, horses, broken arm, family, celebrity, separation, family issues and so much more in this book. Seeking Enrique: Enrique an Omega and Jules an Alpha are the MC’s of this book and mates. There was humor, books, snowstorm, anxiety, agent, writer, book tour, disappearances and so much more in this book. The Hardway: Noah Wilson and Isaac Fitzgerald are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, lawyers, an ex-boyfriend, a daughter, wins and loses, a house, family and so much more in this book. Chosen Family: Thomas, Eric and Daniel are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, architect, assistant, a mansion, ex hockey player, death, police and so much more in this book. Exploring the Cosmos: Reagan an Omega and Cosmos an Alpha are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, bartender, court, a doctor, male pregnancy, family, police and so much more in this book. The Kitchen: Eric and Adam are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, contest, interns, construction worker, reality tv, cooking, ex-boyfriend and so much more in this book. Stirrin Up A Scandal: Harrison and Seth are the MC’s of this book. There was humor, reality ty, dinner, studio owner, intern and so much more in this book. I can recommend as a good read. I voluntarily read an advance copy of this book for an honest review.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,469 reviews29 followers
May 22, 2017
I received this book as an ARC from the author and reviewed it willingly.

I actually enjoyed this book slightly less than I thought I would when I read the synopsis. The beginning was good, but Sam's immaturity became grating. His acceptance of Colton, though, after things were explained was wonderful. The immaturity seemed to fade away, it just took a long time for that to happen. Together they became sweet and a functional unit that I really liked. They grew and became more than what they began as.

All the parents in this book suck, but that's kind of the point here. The incident with the paparazzi at the restaurant was a bit weird, but anything I could have dreamed up would have been either anti-climactic or overly dramatic, so I guess I'm not entirely sure how I'd change that. Except for the yell thing...I'd get rid of that, it was just too weird.

Overall, the conflicts were believable but they weren't really built up enough and the resolutions were slightly bland too. I began to miss the interactions with the horses and wished they were there a bit more, but since the focus should be on the two men and due to the length of this book, I'm not disappointed that the animals weren't a larger part of their interactions. The intimacy between Sam and Colton was more tender than passionate even when there was a touch of desperation to their couplings. The book was enjoyable.
Profile Image for Jenn.
1,180 reviews7 followers
May 23, 2017
3.5 - 4 Stars

I have to say I'm enjoying Austin Bates' writing! Sam and Colton are great characters and their relationship is not always easy but these two have something special together. I think Austin has created a great story line, showing that all character 'types' don't always fit in the same roles. Sam is the omega and Colton the alpha in this story but their personalities don't necessarily fit what the traditional roles would be. Sam is strong-willed and sassy while Colton is much more sensitive and relaxed. I enjoyed that bit of a twist.

When these two meet it certainly doesn't seem like a match, but as they get to know each other that relationship changes. Yes, Sam can be a bit bratty and at times it was a bit frustrating but as their story goes on you can see how Colton loves Sam just as he is. There are definitely challenges for these two, aside from their different personalities, Sam's family and how they treat him, along with Colton and the secret he is carrying around. They work through it though, and together they come out stronger. I loved these two together once they figured it out!

Overall this was a very enjoyable story, I was totally rooting for Sam and Colton and their journey together left me happy!

*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Profile Image for Karen Boozer.
211 reviews4 followers
October 24, 2017
Great series of books! I have read all of the books in the bundle except the 2 new ones. This is a great read to get your feet wet on Mpreg writing and novels. I prefer novel length books because there is more detail and time to develop and reveal the plots...that is the only reason that I gave it 4 stars. All the books are great...some better than others. I recommend getting this bundle as a start to the Mpreg world and then go back and read the full versions of the books if you want to get a more in depth story. No matter what, you will not go wrong in getting this bundle as it shows all of the wonderfulness that is in the Mpreg world as well as the struggles for some characters.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
389 reviews4 followers
May 21, 2017
Again Austin Bates writes an interesting book that will have you hot under the collar. Sam and Colton are great characters that add to the story. Sam should have it all but what he hasn't got is the respect of his parents. Colton shad a secret and when he starts working with the horse's Sam doesn't seem to want him there. After Sam has an accident they become friends and a lot more but secrets are never a good basis for any relationship. Well worth a read it's enjoyable, easy to read.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book.
5,704 reviews39 followers
May 23, 2017
This was a good read.. i will admit i got irritated with sam in the beginning.. i felt like he was very immature and he irritated me.. but then he started to understand what was what and he grew on me and became more of who he needed to be.. i loved colton.. he was strong.. and he still grew to become who he needed to be as well.. the parents.. we wont even go into them.. they all sucked lol. over the writing was very good.. the storyline was a lot of fun to read.. and it was a very good story. im glad i got to review it
115 reviews4 followers
June 2, 2017
DNF
I can honestly say I really don't like the writing of both Bates brothers. I've tried a couple and I simply cannot finish the books.
Sam is really immature and Colton too zen? maybe, but then for me is the inexistence of world building . I don't understand in what universe I am. Omegas and alphas, ok but of what ? How come they exist? What happened? When? I was at pg 60 and no explanation whatsoever. It doesn't seem like the new trend, the omegaverse, in manga but still I don't understand what we're dealing with.
Oh well, sorry and bye.
Profile Image for Belinda Hopkins.
9 reviews
October 24, 2017
As a bundle, this set is just what a person needs as it gives you seven great reads in one pack.

Each story has it's ups and downs with each character having to learn something either about themselves or their love, sometimes with family or careers interfering.

I especially enjoyed "Exploring Cosmos" as it gives insight into how alpha's and omegas may have started, as I don't want to give anything away as a spoiler all I will say is it involves a insane Doctor.

Austin Bates writing and plot lines just keep getting better.


I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Profile Image for Juanna Oliva-holloway.
13 reviews
August 10, 2022
Good reading

I love reading All of his books . The stable secrets Was 1 of his Weaker ones. With the exception of the 1st 2 stories , The rest of the stories were short, and that is detailed is your wish is detailed is your wish. Is development of characters Are amazing from the moment you read chapter 1 characters name You become enthralled in the story Reading him Impeachment the story Should be able to Express what is trying To write. I am obviously dictating This review on my kindle, Therefore You will have Grammatical errors !
11 reviews
October 23, 2017
Sometimes all you want is a bundle of short stories and these fit the bill.
Each story has a similar theme and I could mention each story, but I won’t, because if you are like me
as long as someone has told me that I will surely like them , then I will nestle down on the couch
and have a good reading session.
If you like HEA then you will definitely enjoy this bundle.

I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Profile Image for melek.
1,191 reviews11 followers
February 27, 2018
Even though this was in the world of alpha and omega it wasnt really full on.
Sam work in the stable on his parent farm They pretty much believe in traditional way.
In comes colton who is hired by his mum to become a groom Sam and colton become close.
Colton is keeping an secret not a big one at that but still thinks it will hurt his relationship with sam. You just gotta keep reading until the story unfolds its pretty much not alot of angst and still pretty sweet story.
Profile Image for Adiehardbearfan Da bears.
349 reviews5 followers
May 24, 2017
Beautiful

Sam and Colton are just the sweetest couple in this book. I loved the storyline. It had meaning and provided you with why each of them felt the way they did. The sadness, doubts, fear of growing up too fast, and the drama with parents just made this story perfect. I would definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Paisleyrowan.
366 reviews50 followers
August 7, 2017
A good, solid book. The last confrontation with Colton's dad seemed added on more as an afterthought than as a real part of the story, though. I know it was supposed to leave you feeling a bit numb and let down like the characters, but this was a different feeling entirely.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book.
Profile Image for Coral Mitchell.
3,189 reviews
May 21, 2017
Sam and Colton have had similar experiences even though they have very different lives. Their controlling parents want to rule their lives. I suspect who sold out their location, but it was never revealed in the story. A few things left unfinished. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Diane Dannenfeldt.
4,025 reviews78 followers
June 26, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. They were perfect for each other. I liked the fact that we got an explanation/theory on how the male omegas came to be. I hated their parents, well not Sams mother as much.
5,704 reviews39 followers
October 23, 2017
i love most of these... austin is an awesome writer and gets better all the time.. certain stories i love more then others but that is normal with all writers... i enjoy so many of his and im glad i got to review this set.
Profile Image for Margaret.
77 reviews3 followers
October 24, 2017
Amazing collection of books

I have already read most of these books individually and greatly enjoyed them. It was nice to have these books all together. My favorites are Seeking Enrique and Seeking the Cosmos. Rick was awesome.
157 reviews
May 31, 2017
Good read!

Loved it! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the different twist that Austin showed between an alpha & an omega. Good job Austin. Keep them bcoming. Devoted fan, DB.
Profile Image for Kyla.
94 reviews3 followers
July 13, 2017
I only read to 80%. I didn't care to read it to the end. It was uninteresting, the characters were not well written. I just did not like it.
Profile Image for Shannon Shameh.
255 reviews3 followers
August 1, 2017
Liking the books from coming from this author so far this really good read. Looking forward to meany more books.
Profile Image for Janis Guerrero.
227 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2020
So so Sweet!

Another great set! These stories are so sweet and romantic, with a touch of steam and enough drama to keep your heart fluttering! Austin Bates does it again!
Profile Image for Vicki Tubridy.
274 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2022
Fabulous

So happy I bought this as each of the stories was just as good as the other. So sweet and loving.
9 reviews
May 29, 2025
I was disappointed in chosen family. I thought Thomas would have found his own true love or at least got his own book. Thomas deserved better than what he got in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for D..
2,121 reviews14 followers
August 28, 2021
Review for Stable Secrets: 4 stars

Their love story is so beautiful.

Colton's dad and Sam's parents try to shape their sons way of life. Both carry expectations from their parent, it's heavy burden for them. When they got together, finally they have reason to fight for their relationship and a chance of happiness.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews

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