Waves Break My Fall by Kendall McKenna

Title: Waves Break My Fall

Author: Kendall McKenna

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (109pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (28th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Kage is a Marine, newly returned from Afghanistan and having difficulty adjusting to being home. He tries to decompress with a quiet trip to Puerto Vallarta. Zach is a new college graduate, facing the realities of adulthood. Will their hot summer fling grow into something more?

Kage is a Marine, newly returned from Afghanistan and having difficulty adjusting to being home. He tries to decompress with a quiet, solo trip to Puerto Vallarta.

Zach is newly graduated from college and facing the realities of adulthood and beginning his new career. Their mutual attraction is immediate and intense. Zach is undemanding and seems to understand what Kage is going through. Kage has the physical strength that Zach desires, as well as the strength of character to let him be his own man.

Their summer vacation romance sizzles, but when the time arrives for Zach to return home, will either of them be willing–or able–to walk away?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1172

Review: Kage has decided to have a trip by himself to Puerto Vallarta, just some time away to try to chill and relax. Zach is on holiday with a group of friends, relaxing before he has to enter the police academy and starts to be a responsible adult. But, Kage and Zach meet one night in a crowded bar and they both discover over the course of the rest of the holiday that the other understands what they want and need perfectly. But, is it enough when their holiday ends?

This is a really well written novella that delves slightly into PTSD, as a Marine on leave gets used to civilian life again. Kage is jumpy and cautious, it’s not easy to go from a war zone to a holiday resort, but he is giving it a go. When he visits a bar one night, a beautiful young man catches his eye. But, he is doubtful that such a catch would be interested in him. So, he is surprised when he is approached by the man. Zach is happy that he approached Kage, he is different from other men that he has met and not just because he is a serving Marine. But, as the holiday draws to a close can they really make a go of it?

Kage and Zach are two men that are perfectly balanced. Zach seems to understand that Kage has some limits to what he can handle at the moment and Kage just expects Zach to be himself and doesn’t have any expectations as to what he can do. With Kage, we can understand his actions and his caution, but I think there is a story behind Zach’s words and his determination to stand on his own two feet, but it adds greatly to the story of these two men, as they both have a lot to give to each other.

Their relationship moves fast, and there are a couple of hot and steamy rendezvous’ on the beach which will make you fan yourselves, but the time they spend together isn’t all about sex, they talk and get to know each other and they understand the other’s needs. *sigh* When they do make love it is something special (and really hot) and even afterwards Zach is trying to be considerate to what Kage might need. Oh so sweet.

So with this one I am going to recommend it to those who love Marine’s, hot sexy men, summer love, hot sex, and a happy for now ending.

 

Abraxas's Redemption by Leontii Holender

Title: Abraxas’s Redemption

Series: Devil Enchained 02

Author: Leontii Holender

Genre: Fantasy, Demon

Length: Novella (141pgs)

Publisher: Siren-BookStrand Publishing (27th June 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Abraxas Hadean has never been anything other than a warrior. He is one of the princes of Rausol and youngest of the three Hadean brothers. He’s lived a life of privilege that he has filled with his own miscreant adventures.

His whole world comes to a crashing end when he is killed, sent to the underworld, and put toe-to-toe with a demon from his nightmares. Svel Rosilin is surly, dominating, and everything that Abraxas dreamed about. Yet, the underworld is no place for a fledgling love to begin.

With the threat of a usurper looming over their love, Svel and Abraxas must travel across the Underworld in search of answers to their fate. What they find is cryptic news, a harsh answer, and a threat that will surely tear them apart. Svel and Abraxas must do everything they can to keep hell itself from ripping apart their love of a lifetime.

Purchase Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/abraxass-redemption

Review: Abraxas has been haunted in his dreams by a demon. A demon that is everything that Abraxas has ever wanted and when he is killed and sent to the underworld Svel (the demon he dreams of) is the one he turns to. Svel has been plagued by a human for weeks in his sleep and now that human’s soul has washed up on the shores of Amaia, in the underworld. The connection between them is strong and the Fates play their hand, but do Svel and Abraxas have the strength and love to face their future together and survive?

This is an incredibly imaginative novella that is vivid in its descriptions and passionate in its loving. Abraxas is a warrior and faces the underworld like any warrior would, head held high and fear hidden deep. he accepts the hand that is dealt to him and the new opportunity that is pointed his way. Meeting the demon that has haunted his dreams eases him some and him and his demon fall in love, but an enemy comes out of the shadows and Svel and Abraxas have to face the Fates. But, the enemy refuses to play by the rules and Abraxas soul hangs in the balance.

Okay, before we go any further, I want to give you a warning that if you haven’t a strong stomach then read with caution because some of the descriptions are vivid and disgusting and that is just the Titan’s (four overlords of the underworld). Leontii Holender has given us a vivid look at the underworld, with incredible descriptions, a great storyline and a hectic journey. We are given a full picture of the surroundings and pitfalls that Abraxas and Svel face and it is a miracle that they managed to fall in love and stay together with everything that is chucked at them.

Abraxas and Svel face danger to be together and to stop an enemy from destroying Svel. They both risk everything to love the other and they are both willing to give up everything for the other. When these two are together, you could cut the air with a knife because of the attraction and wan, they are very passionate and erotic and yes, there is an element of D/s and slight BDSM, but it is a demon thing. The sex is hot, erotic and passionate but there are elements of love and they need that love for what is to come.

So, this story has a lot going for it, demons, Titans, a perilous journey across the underworld, incredible descriptions, a demon and human soul falling in love, the Fate’s, the demon Queen, an enemy bent on destruction, hot sex and an ending that is great. So, really what are you waiting for?

Resilience by Bailey Bradford

Title: Resilience

Series: Southwestern Shifters 05

Author: Bailey Bradford

Genre: Shifter, Paranormal

Length: Novel (263pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (16th July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Todd Benson almost died for the freedom to love Adam Soames. Now they face obstacles that once again place both of them in danger.

Todd Benson had figured he’d be alone forever. He had the best friend any guy could want in Gabe Staley, and Gabe’s partner Mika was okay, too. But a personal life and any kind of true happiness was out of the question. With Todd’s bigoted and violent parents and the Sheriff he worked for trying to torture animals and Gabe, Todd knew he’d do well just to survive his job as a deputy in the small town of Shasta, Texas.

Adam Soames needed to get away from the big city. His best friend had found his perfect man and moved away, and Adam felt lost in the city. The opportunity to have his own veterinary practice in a small town sounded perfect. He didn’t know he’d soon be living a life he’d only dreamed of—or the cost he and the man he loved would have to pay.

Together Todd and Adam face seemingly insurmountable odds, from Todd’s recovery from a vicious attack to the prejudices and trials many couples have. Then there’s the big shocker of finding out Gabe and Mika aren’t humans, exactly, but wolf shifters instead, and a whole new door is opened and trouble soon comes barreling through it.

Purchase Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?P_ID=1745&numCurrencyID=2

Review: This story is part of a series and I recommend reading the series in order, as nearly all the characters from previous books have roles in this one. We met them in the very first story and now they have a story of their very own, sweet, sexy Todd and caring, hunky Adam. This story begins before Rescued when Adam first moves to the town; you see the developing friendship between Adam and Todd and their story as they face the town together after events with Todd’s father. Next they discover the secrets that Gabe has kept hidden, and which leads to the discovery that Marcus might have some information on Adam’s missing friend. We then go on an adventure with Adam, Todd and their friends as they hunt for Jameson (Adam’s friend) and Todd and Adam end up with more than they bargained for.

Bailey Bradford has given us a wonderful conclusion to Todd and Adam’s romance. Yes, we knew they got together, but we never saw their story and now we have it in full with some surprises for us to enjoy. Todd has been bullied and beaten for most of his life, but for Adam he starts to stand up for himself. After Todd’s recovery, Todd and Adam find out just how much support they really have in town and they begin their life together. We get a lovely view of Todd and Adam sharing their life and with Todd accepting that he doesn’t want his past to affect him anymore and wanting to do something for Adam.

The story is in three parts and is split quite well, the first part is when Adam and Todd first get together, the second part is seeing their life together and where they discover they are shifters and the third is focused on finding Adam’s friend Jameson. We see Gabe, Mika, Aiden, Zane, Marcus and Nathan and they all play a part in this story and are quite involved in what is going on. The friendships between them all are great and Todd and Adam warm up to Aiden, Zane, Marcus and Nathan quite well, although it was a bit tense at first. Todd and Adam’s lives change forever with the discovery of shifters and when Adam is injured their lives are turned upside down in shocking circumstances.

This is a great story that has a wonderful relationship between two wonderful men. They love each other with passion, compassion and caring. They support each other through anything that is thrown at them and the sex between them is hot, loving, erotic and at times passionate. The storyline is great and opens the shifter world into a new branch as the Southwestern shifters look for Jameson in Amsterdam and we connect to the shifters there.

So, I will recommend this to those who love shifters, hot sexy men, hot loving, surprises and shocks, some danger, some laughs and giggles, with a great storyline and a happy ending.

 

Heartless by J. Roman

Title: Heartless

Series: Keeping Secrets 01

Author: J. Roman

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary

Length: Novella (130pgs)

Publisher: Harmony Ink Press (30th June 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: For gay teens in the South, Erwin High School is as good as it gets. The prevailing liberalism means being gay doesn’t have to be the focus of your life—which frees up seventeen-year-old Jason Strummer to take on the role of bully. Jason understands his beauty and power and has a reputation to match his attitude. No one but his best friend suspects the cruelty Jason hides behind is a ruse to keep his hellish private life out of the public eye.

Jason has only loved one boy in his life, and that crush on Tommy Johnson ended so badly that they’re no longer on speaking terms. When an ex-lover threatens Jason and Tommy steps in to help, the heartless playboy can’t help but fall a little bit back in love with him—but Jason will have to choose between keeping Tommy or his secrets.

Young Adult Age Range: 14 to 18 years old

Warning: Some scenes may cause distress.

Purchase Link: UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Heartless-Keeping-Secrets-ebook/dp/B008GHJKSC/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1343291116&sr=1-2

USA: http://www.amazon.com/Heartless-Keeping-Secrets-ebook/dp/B008GHJKSC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1341188223&sr=8-1&keywords=9781613725528

Review: Jason is living a hellish existence in his home life, so he puts on a front at school and with his friends. He has a hard shell and doesn’t care who he hurts. But, when he is attacked by his ex-lover, Tommy steps up to the plate and rescues him and it is the start of something new between them. But, Jason once humiliated Tommy; can they really forgive and forget? And can Jason admit his secrets and become the person Tommy thinks he can be?

This is quite a hard-hitting story, that has your emotions swinging with desperation to save Jason and to beat the crap out of his mother and kill his step-father, and yes there are also times you want to smack sense into Jason. But, when you fully understand what he has gone through and is still going through you can empathize with his actions. I can only read this book as a mother, but I am sure there are some of you out there that will see it from different perspectives. For me I was sick to the stomach for poor Jason, for what he was going through and for what his mother knew he was going through.

Jason hits out at people before they can do it to him, in retaliation for an offense and so people don’t see the real him. This means he comes across as shallow and self-centered. It takes Tommy to begin to get through to Jason that he doesn’t have to be that person, that he can be less defensive and that there are people who will help him. Tommy and Jason have some touching moments and they are wonderful together, they both secretly loved the other when they were younger, but, a careless word from Tommy hurt Jason more than he thought possible and so he enacted his revenge.

This is a sweet love story that is angsty, with a lot of emotional upheaval for these teenagers. Tommy and Jason have their misunderstandings, but they are at the beginning of their new relationship and at a new juncture in Jason’s life. Jason has had a lot to live with and hide, he has his reasons for how he acts but it isn’t always easy to forgive his actions. Tommy has lived through his humiliation and come out the other side, now he wants another chance with Jason.

I will recommend this to those who love young adult stories that are as hard-hitting as they are sweet with young love, for those who can see past the surface mask to the hurting boy underneath, who want a happily ever after and a new start for two young men.

 

 

 

 

Summer Love, Midnight Kisses by Pelaam

Title: Summer Love, Midnight Kisses

Author: Pelaam

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (78pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (28th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Josh assists his father in coaching the local basketball team. Through the season, he flirts with his friend Bax and hopes things will become more serious. He’s asked to befriend Amelia’s grandchild Xandy. Josh intends to let others do it–until they meet.

Josh falls in love with a quietly spoken, shy, straight guy–or so he thinks. Xander, equally enamored, hides his sexuality and desire. The more time they spend in summer’s heat, the more their attraction grows until it boils over one evening. Each man thinks he has spoiled their friendship.

His sexuality isn’t Xander’s only secret and when Bax thinks he’s uncovered it, he tells Josh. But it’s a secret more dangerous than either of them realize.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1168

Review: Josh is asked by his neighbor to show her grandchild Xandy about town and introduce him to people his own age. But, when he meets the sexy grandson all he’d like to do is strip him down and lick him all over.  Unfortunately, Josh thinks Xandy is straight. Xandy is hot for Josh, but thinks he is straight and after a shared night together each thinks the other is ashamed. But, when Bax (Josh’s friend) thinks he has discovered Xandy’s secret, it actually brings them all closer together.

This story is a sweet romance that has a hidden twist that really adds to the story. Josh has had a crush on his best friend Bax for a while and Bax has been flirting back, but Josh doesn’t know if it will go anywhere. Xandy is visiting his grandmother to get away from his home for a while, when he meets Josh he is instantly smitten but he thinks Josh is straight so they just become friends. Josh is equally as smitten, but he also thinks Xandy is straight and it takes one slightly drunk night and his friend’s jealousy for the truth to come out.

Xandy and Josh become friends while secretly falling in love with each other. They make a great couple even before they realize the truth about each other. The mysterious man in Xandy’s past is a surprise and adds a great aspect to the story. I really enjoyed the way the story evolved, with jealousy, misunderstandings and hope. There’s some passion between Xandy and Josh which is very erotic, but the main scene between them is more gentle with restrained passion, but with lots of love between them.

The story flowed smoothly and the characters are wonderful and the storyline was great with a twist and some surprising danger. For some reason, and I have tried to work it out but haven’t been able to figure it out, I kept thinking that Xandy, Josh and their friends were teenagers (late teens) instead of in their twenties and I haven’t been able to pin point why it felt that way but it felt like they should have been teens. *Maybe it’s just me feeling old.  lol*

So, I will recommend this to those who love summer love, confusion, misunderstandings, a twist, a surprise danger, some sweet erotic loving and a happy ending.

Summer School by Tam Ames

Title: Summer School

Author: Tam Ames

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (179pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (18th July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Jeremy Decker is preparing for the worst summer of his life, teaching summer school and healing from his recent breakup. But maybe his sexy young teaching assistant will be able to put an end to Jeremy’s summer doldrums.

English teacher Jeremy Decker’s split with his boyfriend has left him with no plans for the summer and credit card debt. One solution is to teach summer history classes. College history major Lucas Van Sloan is brought in to assist Jeremy, and is thrilled to have a summer job that doesn’t include supervising kids at the hometown swimming pool.

A summer heat wave has Jeremy snarlier than even upbeat Lucas can handle. Lucas drags the teacher back to his place and out of the heat, determined to pull Jeremy into his bed while he has him there. However, Jeremy’s ex isn’t quite ready to let go, and a college student may be no competition for a high-powered attorney.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1169

Review: Jeremy is not looking forward to the summer; he has just split with his boyfriend, has huge credit card debts and is teaching summer school. And to top it all off, his A/C breaks in the middle of a heat wave. Things begin to look up when Lucas starts as his assistant. But, Jeremy tries to keep his distance as Lucas is eight years younger than him. Lucas doesn’t care about age, he just cares about the hot sexy teacher he is working with. Now, if only he can tempt him with a nice cool pool and working A/C.

This is a very good novella that flows smoothly and is well written. Jeremy caught his boyfriend with his pants down and a whip in his hands and both of those were huge deal breakers for Jeremy.  Now, he has to work through the summer to pay off the debts that visiting his boyfriend caused. When he meets Lucas he is cautious, but soon falls under the younger man’s spell. Lucas is happy as a clam to be working in summer school, when he meets the teacher he is assigned to he is even happier. Now, he just has to convince Jeremy to relax his guard a bit. But, as the end of summer approaches and Jeremy’s ex-boyfriend turns up the two men have decisions to make.

Jeremy and Lucas are two wonderful men, who come together and begin a relationship that means more to both of them than either of them thought. Jeremy is very wary.  He was with his ex for eight years before he realized that he never really know him. But, Jeremy learned a lot, like not taking for granted that his partner wants the same things. So with Lucas in the picture he makes sure that they are on the same page by talking with him. Lucas brings a bit of fun to the story and gets Jeremy to lighten up a bit. Lucas also doesn’t let Jeremy fall into his old ways of going with the flow and he makes sure that they are in it together every step of the way, although he is still a bit pushy.

I really enjoyed this story. Jeremy and Lucas were great characters and their story was very sweet. Their sex life was hot and I loved when they experimented a bit, very steamy kink ;-). I also loved the fact that they talked about what they expected from a relationship and from each other. I must admit to feeling sorry for the ex, David, as he was never open about what he really wanted and lost Jeremy because of it. But, if they had talked about it in the first place then both men would have saved themselves a lot of heartache and maybe been happy with people who did want the same things. Could there be a story for David in the future?

I am going to recommend this to those who love hot teachers, men being honest with each other, a hot steamy kinky love scene, hot sex, slightly older men and a happy ending.

 

 

 

Seasons of Change by Allison Cassatta

Title: Seasons Of Change

Author: Allison Cassatta

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (98pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (28th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥2 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: When Presley Howard returns to unemployment and single life after five years of normalcy, breakdown is imminent. On the advice of his twin sister, he takes a vacation in Florida where he meets hunky pediatric surgeon, Dr Camden Brooks.

When Presley Howard loses his job and his lover of five years, control of his life is gone. His daily routine is thrown into disarray, bringing him close to a nervous breakdown.

On the advice–or rather, the insistent prodding–of his twin sister, he takes a vacation in Pensacola, Florida to relax and reconnect with parents he hasn’t seen in years. What he finds is a sense of hope and the only man who can rein him back in and save his broken heart, hunky pediatric surgeon, Dr Camden Brooks.

Together, they conquer Presley’s fears and temper his need to control everything around him, and their blossoming love gives Dr Brooks something new and beautiful to look forward to.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1161

Review: Presley loses his job and then his lover walks out on him, his routine is broken and he is spinning into depression.  his sister pokes and prods until he goes to visit their parents at the beach and there he meets a man who gives him back some semblance of balance. Cam is a doctor that has recently lost a patient; he meets Presley on the beach one night, a man who helps him to forget and to look forward instead of backwards.

This is a well written novella that shows two men coming together and helping each other to overcome their emotional woes. Presley has a slight case of OCD and when he loses his job and his lover he feels helpless, like his life is now out of his control and he begins to sink into depression. when he meets Camden on the beach, he loses some of his neurosis as he feels calmer in his presence. Cam can lose himself in Presley, but can also help him to balance his neurosis. they fall hard for each other, but at the end of Presley’s holiday he has to return home and it is time for Presley to face the reality of his life.

I will be honest and say I didn’t like Presley, he was all me, me, me and from the descriptions in the book he had a hell of a lot more problems than just a touch of OCD. The OCD was well described as well as the feelings that you get in an OCD moment, they were very well written, but Presley showed signs of other issues which also made him neurotic (to be honest he was bordering on psychotic at times). Cam seemed like a nice bloke, but I couldn’t get his whole relationship with his daughter’s mother. I mean when they lived together was it platonically? How did her conception come about? It was frustrating to not know the full circumstances.

Now the sex was hot, a bit quick but very hot, although they don’t have full sex until the very end. The relationship seems to move very fast, although we don’t see much of it, we seem to get the highlights.

I will recommend this story to those who want a hot holiday romance that leads to a happily ever after, hot sex and two hot men finding love.

Bedazzled by Pelaam

Title: Bedazzled

Author: Pelaam

Genre: Science Fiction, Mystery

Length: Novella (139pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (14th July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: On the space station Niteo, Jem mourns his father’s death. Used like a servant by his stepmother, his world turns upside down when he rescues the charming Prinz. But is Prinz interested in Jem or the business opportunities Jem represents?

On the space station Niteo, Jem still mourns the loss of his father while his stepmother treats him like a servant. When he saves a stranger’s life, Jem’s world and that of his best friend Byron, is turned upside down. Jem is bedazzled by the charming Prinz and Byron–who hides a secret of his own–by Herne, Prinz’s friend and colleague.

Byron and Herne collide in a tempestuous relationship, while Prinz gently courts Jem.

But, Jem discovers Prinz is the son of a ruthless businessman who covets the family business. Has Prinz used their budding relationship for ulterior motives?

Furthermore, when Herne investigates Jem’s father’s disappearance, something shocking is uncovered.

Will Herne find the truth in time to save Jem?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/891

Review: Jem is still mourning the death of his father when he rescues Prinz from a beating, which leads to his best friend Byron meeting Herne and Jem being convinced to go on a date with Prinz. But in the background Jem’s stepmother is conniving with his uncle and step-siblings and Jem’s inheritance is in their sights.

Ohhhh, this has a strong feel of Cinderfella in space, but with a lot more going on in the background and an extended happy ending. Jem has been left unbalanced by his father’s disappearance and although he doesn’t know it, his stepfamily has taken full advantage of it.  Jem is treated like a poor servant, keeping him off-balance, to drugging him and working him into the ground. But, Jem believes they are doing the best for him. Byron doesn’t agree but can do nothing to convince Jem otherwise. When Jem rescues Prinz, and Byron and Herne meet, it leads to finding out secrets and uncovering lies about what really happened to Jem’s father.

This is a very interesting story of good old-fashioned Prince Charming being advanced into the future and giving us two very different romances as well as hinting at a beginning for a third. Prinz and Jem’s relationship is very slow-moving and gentle, with Prinz taking his time with the skittish Jem. Whereas Byron and Herne’s is explosive and passionate from the start. Both relationships are interesting to watch, as they fumble their way towards love. Byron and Herne both jump to conclusions about the other and Byron ends up pretty hurt before Herne realizes his mistake. While neither Prinz nor Jem really know who the other is, it leads to a huge misunderstanding, but there is no one to blame really as we do get to see and understand why they are reluctant to be truthful about their identities.

This story is well written and the storyline and plot are good. the twist towards the end was a surprise and the difference in the two relationships was brilliant, one passionate, hot and explosive and the other gentle, sweet, coaxing and caring but both having loving erotic sex.

I have to recommend this if you want a Cinderfella feeling science fiction, two wonderful romances, and a touch of mystery, a surprise twist, some erotic, hot sex and a very happy ending.

 

 

Finding Release by Silvia Violet

Title: Finding Release

Series: Wild R Farm 01

Author: Silvia Violet

Genre: Shifters, Cowboys, Contemporary

Length: Novel (196pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (14th July 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Coleman Wilder, a half-breed werewolf, struggles to control his instincts. Horse shifter, Jonah Marks, lets his stallion run free but fears his family’s judgment. They will each have to face their fears to have the love they’ve always wanted.

Coleman Wilder is a half-breed werewolf. Some days the tension between his human side and his werewolf instincts threaten to tear him apart. But the challenge of running a horse farm as a gay man in a conservative Tennessee town keeps him focused until he meets horse shifter, Jonah Marks.

Jonah’s family insists that shifting is sinful, but Jonah longs to let his stallion run free. Desperate to escape his family’s judgment, he asks Cole, his secret crush, for a job. Cole turns him down, scared his desire for Jonah will make him lose control. When Jonah’s brother threatens his life, Cole struggles to save him and give them both a second chance at the life they’ve always wanted.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/894

Review: Cole is a half-breed werewolf and a cowboy who owns a horse farm. When horse shifter Jonah approaches him for a job he declines, his wolf instincts driving him hard. Jonah is desperate to get away from his brother, Nathan, who thinks shifting, is a sin and Jonah being gay pushes him over the edge. Cole and Jonah have to find the strength to fight Nathan in the human world.

This is a very good shifter story, showing us how these people deal with their shifter instincts and their love, while fighting a bigot who is against shifting and gays. Cole struggles with his wolf instincts and urges, fighting for dominance over the wolf. But, when Jonah comes into his life, it’s a fight he seems to be barely winning. Jonah is a young man who has been treated badly by his brother and stepfather. When Cole rescues him, he doesn’t know how to be strong enough to fight his brother, but, with Cole’s help he finds a reserve of hidden strength he didn’t know he had.

I loved these characters of Jonah and Cole; both of them have their own troubles; Jonah, his family, and Cole, his wolf instincts. Cole’s situation is an intriguing one, as a half-breed he isn’t expected to shift, but, his wolf instincts are strong and it is tearing him apart, as his wolf and human side struggle for dominance. Jonah is in another unique situation, his family are horse shifters but they are so religious that they think shifting is a sin, add in the fact that Jonah is gay and you have a brother who would commit murder to cleanse him. The way the shifters and humans seem to grudgingly live side by side is interesting, the shifters aren’t hunted down but they aren’t fully accepted either… some people accept them, others ignore them and some sneer and snarl at them… it spookily reminded me of how gays are treated.

The relationship between Cole and Jonah is not an easy one at first, as Cole and Jonah have to fight their animal instincts of predator and prey, the urges to chase and flee. Jonah has an easier time of his control as he accepted him stallion many years before, but Cole has never truly accepted his wolf because of his inability to shift. Their sex life is passionate and intense with a few ups and downs as Cole fights his instincts to bite and tear (it’s very hot, very hot). There are also times when they conflict because of their protective natures, each trying to protect the other and do the right thing.

I will recommend this to those who love shifters, hot sex, conflict, danger, two men who are struggling to be themselves, a wonderful love and a happy ending.

 

 

 

The Last Concubine by Catt Ford

Title: The Last Concubine

Series: A Timeless Dreams Title

Author: Catt Ford

Genre: Historical (1600-1700?)

Length: Novel (218pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (13th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: When Princess Lan’xiu’s brother delivers her under duress into General Hüi Wei’s harem as a political offering, her only question is how soon her secret will be discovered. She is under no illusions: when the general discovers she is actually a he, death is his only future—though he doesn’t plan to make it easy. Lan’xiu has dressed as a woman all his life, but he is no damsel in distress. He can swing a sword with the best of them.

General Hüi Wei has everything a man could want: power, wealth, success on the battlefield, and a harem of concubines. At first, he regards Lan’xiu with suspicion, but he finds himself strangely drawn to her. When he discovers the beautiful young woman is actually a man, his first reaction is to draw his sword. Rather than waste such beauty, he decides to enjoy the spirited Lan’xiu’s submission—and ignites a passion and desire deeper than anything he’s felt with other wives. But court intrigue, political ambitions, and the general’s doubts may be too much for their love to overcome.

A Timeless Dreams title: While reaction to same-sex relationships throughout time and across cultures has not always been positive, these stories celebrate M/M love in a manner that may address, minimize, or ignore historical stigma.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3075

Review: Lan’xiu has been handed over as a gift to Hüi Wei, but it is also a sly plot by her brother Wu Min, after all Wu Min has looked at all the options and knows Hüi Wei will react badly when he uncovers Lan’xiu secrets. Lan’xiu knows she is facing certain death, Wu Min has made sure of that, but Hüi Wei surprises her with his reaction and even though things are going good between them, obstacles are thrown in their path and Lan’xiu begins to feel trapped. Hüi Wei surprises even himself with his reaction to Lan’xiu, there is a delicate balance that must be made but when he must go into battle Lan’xiu surprises them all.

This is a very well written novel which gives you a taste of historical China. I will be the first to admit that I don’t know much about Chinese timelines, so I haven’t been able to pinpoint a certain timeline although I would hazard a guess of 1600 – 1700 hundreds based on the clothing described. Lan’xiu has been disguised since birth as a girl; her mother even gave her a girl’s name as it was the only way to save her life. When her brother discovered the truth Lan’xiu knew her time was short. Meeting Hüi Wei changes her life for the better, although she does have to contend with the other concubines/wives, many of whom are lovely women, and feeling trapped in her new gilded cage.

Now I bet you’re thinking ‘her & she, I thought this was an M/M’, well let me reassure you, it is an M/M but you get pulled into thinking of Lan’xiu as ‘her & she’ because that is how everyone has always thought of her with only Ning (Lan’xiu’s eunuch) and her mother knowing the truth, so even Lan’xiu thinks of himself as ‘her’ even with knowing that he is male, after all it has saved her life and when Hüi Wei learns the truth he is also encouraged to think of Lan’xiu as female.

The storyline of this one is intriguing; a woman given as a gift to a governor and taken on as his concubine, adding to his stable of concubines/wives, having to become a member of an existing family and trying to find a place without stepping on anybody’s else’s toes, all the while having to keep a secret that could cost her life. Add in political maneuvering of one of the other concubines and a brother who wants more and more power and you have a story that is never dull. We also get to see some of the turmoil that Hüi Wei goes through about his feelings for Lan’xiu, and the confusion of Lan’xiu being a man.

Lan’xiu and Hüi Wei make a great couple but expectations of the time causes some troubles. I was surprised by how quickly they fell in love but it was very like soul-mates meeting. The sex between them is very hot, sometimes rough and passionate and other times gentle and sweet. The supporting characters are great and we get to know some of them quite well, I loved Ning, Mei Ju (First Wife) and Bai (fifth wife) they added a lot to the story and added some light relief at times.

I will recommend this to those who like historicals, political intrigue, betrayal, attempted murder, battles, sword fights, passionate love and a very happy ending.

 

Trial by Fire by Terra Laurant

Title: Trial by Fire

Author: Terra Laurent

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novella (83pgs)

Publisher: Siren-BookStrand Publishing (13th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Ian Sheldon has come to Whitehaven Hall to undergo the trial that will initiate him into the brutal world of mage adepts, where slaughter is the reward for weakness and power alike. Ian knows the reality of the ranks he seeks to enter—his father was murdered by another mage.

Aodh Graeme is a surly but sensuously handsome demon with fiery hair and copper eyes—and a violent need for blood. Aodh is Ian’s servant and guide for the trials, magically bound to Ian for the duration of his test. This bond flows their magic between them, heightening the fierce attraction Ian already feels for the laconic demon. But, the alternate reality hosting the trials shows Ian his intimidating guide may not be trustworthy.

As Ian progresses towards the lurid horizon that houses his ultimate goal, he must decide if he will surrender to Aodh’s sensual pull—and possibly become the next victim of the mages.

Purchase Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/trial-by-fire

Review: Ian has to undergo a trial to prove himself worthy of being a mage adept.  His assigned guide is a red cap demon called Aodh and they have a perilous journey before them. However, Ian has another motive for going through with the trial and he might have found an unexpected ally in Aodh. But, first they must come out of the trial alive and Ian fights his attraction to Aodh when he is shown that Aodh just might turn on him.

An interesting premise of how strict the magical world is with only the strongest being allowed to become mage adepts/sorcerers, well as long as they aren’t too strong. This is a well written story that gives us some background on the magic users and how they are treated by those who have stronger magic. Ian has to complete the trial well enough to become a sorcerer, but not so enough that he could be seen as a threat.  Either way the threat of death lingers over him. Aodh has no choice but to help Ian during the trial, but Ian surprises him and gives him a glimmer of hope. Now, they just have to get past Taylent (sorcerer in charge of the trial).

I will be honest and say that we don’t see that much of a romance; it is more of a passionate coming together and trust built during the trial and putting their lives in each other’s hands. It happens over a very short amount of time, but it does feel longer with everything that they deal with during the trial. The descriptions that we get from the pocket of space that the trial is held in are very impressive and kinda icky. I was impressed with the twist that emerged during the trial and I really liked Ian’s attitude regarding the current set up of the sorcerer’s ranks.

We don’t get to know that much about Aodh, which I thought was a shame, but he seems to suit Ian well when he realizes that Ian isn’t like the others that have come before him. The sex between them is very hot, but it isn’t sweet and gentle, it is very passionate and intense. The epilogue was cool and I really hope that we will get a sequel.

So, I recommend this to those who love magic, shaking up a system, revenge, vengeance, a hot demon and a hot mage and a happy ending (when they aren’t battling other sorcerer’s).

 

 

 

Reluctant Surrender by Jana Downs

Title: Reluctant Surrender

Series: Alchemy Mates 01

Author: Jana Downs

Genre: Historical (1815), Paranormal

Length: Novel (192pgs)

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand Publishing (23rd June 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: A former member of a legendary vampire-hunting family, Andren MacGregor is now a vampire under the care of an extremely sexy and absolutely forbidden ancient Roman vampire named Lucian. He’s spent the past seven years fighting the growing attraction for his maker, and the fact that he is no longer human just seems to compound his prickly personality.

When his family steps back into the picture and a killer starts targeting Lucian, Andren has to come to grips with the things he’s been denying about himself. He’ll have to learn to balance being a vampire and being a hunter in order to protect the man he’s growing to love and the family that he’s sworn to protect.

Purchase Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/reluctant-surrender

Review: Andren has had a lot to cope with first going from vampire hunter to vampire, then his unexplained attraction to his sire and finally having to cope with no longer being human. And now just when he is accepting his fate, his family are back and someone is out for him and Lucian. Lucian has waited patiently for years for Andren to come to terms with being a vampire. Now, he just wishes that Andren would turn to him for love. In the mean time, Lucian has to help Andren hunt down a killer who is targeting them both.

You know I wasn’t sure at first about the setting for this book, 18th century England, for vampires, but after reading it I found what better timeframe to have vampires live, than regency England when the aristocracy slept most of the day and partied at night. Andren used to be a vampire hunter, but then a hunt went wrong and he was turned. His family turned their back on him and he only had Lucian (his sire) left to rely on. Andren has now spent the last seven years basically sulking for the loss of his old life and refusing to come to terms with what he now is. He has also denied his feelings for Lucian.

Lucian has had the patience of a saint, looking after Andren and teaching him the ways of a vampire could not have been easy. The support that he has shown Andren is amazing and it is only his love for Andren that has had him being so strong in the face of Andren’s treatment of him. Lucian is a wonderful vampire and some of his close friends are great and they really fill the story out. When Andren finally let’s himself accept his circumstances, Andren and Lucian are beautiful together. And then they have Andren’s family to deal with and whoever is after them both.

This is a really good story that weaves a web of deceit and murder, of love and betrayal and of hope and forgiveness. Andren’s family discovers truths that their father hid. Lucian’s friends just might not be friends and Andren finally accepts Lucian’s love. I liked the way that this story was told and the descriptions of regency England, the sex is hot and passionate and the vampire powers are cool and varied. I will admit to not liking Andren at first, god what a big baby, but when he finally accepts that there is more to life and that he doesn’t have to give up his calling of taking down rogue vampires, he improved in my eyes by a huge amount.

So, if you love vampires, vampire powers, regency, danger, love, accepting your fate, finding out truths and having a happy ending then this is the book for you.

 

 

 

Liam's Happiness by Kam Miller

Title: Liam’s Happiness

Series: The Portland Pack 01

Author: Kam Miller

Genre: Paranormal, Shifters

Length: Novella (129pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: As a child, Liam was kept isolated by the power of his abusive Alpha. Years later Liam escapes to find a fragile peace — until Griffon storms into his life. Can Liam overcome his past and seize his future?

As a child, Liam was kept in isolation and under control of his abusive pack Alpha. He eventually escaped and forged a life as a lone wolf.

After finding out Liam survived the explosion that killed his parents, Griffon immediately throws himself into rescuing Liam. Ten years later, Griffon finally finds his lost mate.

All Griffon wants to do is take Liam home and protect him, but Liam is scared to leave the only peace he’s known. Then an emergency forces Liam to confront his past and risk his future.

Will Liam be able to follow his instinct and believe in the happiness and safety Griffon represents, or has his ability to trust been completely shattered?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/783

Review: Liam escaped from the hands of an abusive Alpha with the help of his only friend Cale. Now, he lives in the wilds of Canada as a wolf, keeping to himself. But, one day someone finds him, wanting him to return to the place where his nightmares reside. Griffon has hunted for Liam for years and finally he has tracked him down. But, the hardest part is yet to come; to convince his mate to return to civilization and to face his fears.  An emergency forces them both to confront the past and Liam learns just where his real strength is.

This book is Kam Miller’s first published work and for a first timer, she’s done a great job. Liam is an Omega. When his adoptive parents were killed in an explosion, he was taken by his biological grandparents and kept as a prisoner. Everyone believing he died in the explosion. Now, ten years after his escape from his cruel grandparents, he is wary of ever trusting anyone again, but he feels safe with the wolf who finds him. Griffon is a strong but caring Alpha and tried to get to Liam before he disappeared. Now, after ten years of hunting he has finally found the wolf who is his mate, but getting Liam’s trust is hard. Especially when they are forced to return to pack lands by the kidnapping of one of their own, Cale.

Liam is a very gentle wolf and so very, very sweet. The way that he was treated was appalling and I was so glad that the author wrote about his escape. Griffon is a strong but compassionate wolf and he rules his pack like they are family and he has been devoted to finding Liam since he first discovered he was alive. Both Liam and Griffon click when they first meet and it does get very sexually charged between them, but they get to know each other a little bit before jumping each other’s bones.

The storyline is quite good. Liam being an Omega can help calm wolves and unfortunately Liam’s grandfather was completely insane and looked down on Omegas, so Liam was punished just for living. Now a threat connected to his past re-emerges and both Liam and Griffon fear the outcome when a pack-mate is in danger. The council failed him badly in the past and I think Kam Miller should write a story that shakes up all their rules (you’ll understand why when you read this). Now I love hot man on man sex as much as the next person and this has plenty to keep you going, but sometimes it just felt out-of-place.

Hmmm, I will recommend this to those who love shifters, hot sex, a good storyline, some danger, some great characters (and there are a few of them) and a happy ending.

 

 

Solid as Stone by Amylea Lyn

Title: Solid as Stone

Series: The Brotherhood 01

Author: Amylea Lyn

Genre: Science Fiction, Contemporary, Action

Length: Novel (243pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: The Brotherhood is seeking their freedom, and one man holds the key. When the father’s sins come to light, can one shy doctor and a tough assassin work together or will past scars be too much for them to overcome?

Stone’s life is one of ordered control. As a child he was experimented on and turned into something more than human. Now the leader of The Brotherhood, an elite group of soldier assassins, he is given the task of eradicating the man who possibly holds the key to his freedom.

When Dr Wesley Folcomb finds himself targeted by the government group that killed his father, he is forced to seek safety from the very assassin sent to eliminate him.

On the run for their lives, Wesley and Stone grow close but with such different pasts, can they find love? Or will the danger hunting them cause their relationship to crumble before it has a chance to become as solid as stone?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/917/

Review: Wesley is shocked when he finds his father’s notes among his mother’s things. They detail an experiment that was overtaken by the government years ago. Now, Wesley faces the results of the government experiment as they are sent to bring him in. Stone is amazed when he discovers who Wesley really is and begins to hope he is the answer to his and his brother’s problems. But, first they have to lose the The Company and their Alters.

Amylea Lyn has produced an interesting story that begins with a naive scientist and government betrayal and is obviously the beginning to a brilliant new series. Wesley is a brilliant man, but he is hopeless in social settings. When he teams up with Stone, his awkwardness is apparent, but his sweetness shines through. Stone has never been allowed to have emotions and has had them beaten out of him, but The Company failed and although Stone is very awkward with his emotions and very rusty with them, they are still there and very apparent when he talks about or is with his brothers.

Seeing Wesley and Stone fumble about with their feelings for each other is quite sweet. But, we are always reminded that they are in danger and The Company will never stop looking for them. Stone has five brothers and we meet each of them; Fury, Blade, Trigger, Ghost and Locke. When Stone discovers who Wesley is, they all defect from The Company and they have to stay one step ahead not to fall into their hands again. The Company wants Wesley and they are determined to find out what he knows about his father’s experiment and discovery.

The storyline is really good and the plot is interesting. The characters are brilliant. I can’t wait for the other brothers’ stories so they can begin to heal emotionally. There are times of danger, times of loving and times of anger and they all blend well. I really did enjoy this story, but at times I felt disconnected from the story and I can’t even tell you why. I would be in the story and then suddenly I would seem to drift for a few pages. I’d read it, but it was as though those few pages was filler with no substance, which really was a shame because Amylea Lyn has developed a really good story base and some brilliant characters. She has great baddies and a brilliant lead for the next book.

I will recommend this to those who like secret government agencies (baddies), a collection of hot men who want to be normal, two men falling in sweet love, hot sex and an ending that makes us want the next book now.

 

 

Aliens, Smith and Jones by Blaine D. Arden

Title: Aliens, Smith and Jones

Author: Blaine D. Arden

Genre: Science Fiction, Action, Mystery

Length: Novel (200pgs)

Publisher: Storm Moon Press (20th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Connor Smith works for Primrose, an organization tasked with monitoring and tracking aliens and alien technology. It’s a job that doesn’t know the meaning of “nine-to-five”. It also doesn’t leave much room for a social life, a complication that Connor hasn’t minded, until now. At the prodding of his best friend, Connor reluctantly puts himself back in the dating pool, even though it means lying about his remarkable life.

Elsewhere, Noah Jones has led a remarkable life of his own. Stranded on Earth in 1648, Noah was forced to transform himself permanently into human form to survive. He soon learned that in doing so, he’d become effectively immortal, aging only at a glacial pace. Alone, with no way to contact his people or return home, Noah becomes a silent observer of human civilization—always in the world, but never of the world. Then, hundreds of years later, he sees a face in a crowd and instantly feels a connection that he thought he’d never feel again. But he’s too late: Connor’s already taken.

Destiny is not without a sense of humor, though, and the two men are pulled inexorably closer, snared by the same web of dangers and conspiracies. Worse, Primrose is now aware of Noah, and they aren’t ones to leave an alien unrestrained. So while Connor struggles to understand the strange pull he feels toward Noah, forces without as well as within are working against them to keep them apart.

Purchase Link: http://www.stormmoonpress.com/books/Aliens-Smith-and-Jones.aspx

Review: Conner works for a company that secretly investigates anything alien, making sure alien artifacts don’t fall into the wrong hands. But, just recently somebody is getting to the artifacts before they can. On top of that worry, Conner seems to have gained a stalker who he has a very strange connection with, is it friend or foe? Noah has managed to stay under Primrose’s radar since the company came into being, but now he has inadvertently connected to one of its workers, Conner.  Noah tries to keep clear, but it’s not long before Primrose comes for him. Will the connection between Noah and Conner work for them or against them?

This is a great alien story that has a wealth of detail, great characters and an intriguing plot. Noah has been stranded on Earth for hundreds of years, living a quite unassuming life and not drawing attention to himself.  Inadvertently he makes a connection that he hasn’t felt in 270 years, he has high hopes, but then finds out Conner has a boyfriend. And that isn’t the least of his problems when he receives a visit from Primrose. Conner is shocked when something strange happens to him, but he tries to push it to the back of his mind as he starts dating a new man. Unfortunately, things become confusing for him when he discovers he has a connection to an alien and then he comes under suspicion when alien artifacts disappear from his work place and then Noah disappears as well.

Aliens, Smith and Jones is far from the typical alien story. Noah Jones might have been found by Primrose, but they never experimented on him, okay so he went through a lot of tests but he wasn’t treated badly. I really liked the way that Primrose is portrayed in this book, although they do hunt aliens and alien artifacts it is more for the safety of the world, but without the need to experiment. I really was puzzled by Conner’s boyfriends’ role at first, but it soon began to come clear and it added a really good twist. I liked how we were drawn into the workings of Primrose and what they actually do, so we didn’t see them as the enemy.

What happens between Noah and Conner because of their connection I won’t say much about, but let’s just say that it saves both of them on more than one occasion. The action is well written and I liked how the mystery was done. there is some betrayal and a really horrific time in store for Noah at the hands of unscrupulous characters. The sex in this book is really hot and it is intense when Noah and Conner finally get it together.  Their connection is something that is quite beautiful. There are some times when anguish and fear shine through and the descriptions are impressive and you can imagine just how emotionally painful it is.

I am going to recommend this one to those who like clandestine agencies, aliens, secret agendas, alien loving, a great storyline and a happy ending.

Take It Slow by AKM Miles

Title:  Take It Slow

Series:  None

Author:  A.K.M. Miles

Genre:   M/M Romance, YA

Length:  273 Pages

Publisher: Torquere Books

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts ~ Like it

Blurb:  When Daniel Webster returns to Nashville after two years of hell, he doesn’t go back to his dad’s house. After an amazing rescue he ends up at Mama Sasy’s diner and finds out that it’s a safe place for young gay guys in trouble. He certainly fits that bill.

Daniel has problems mentally and physically after all he’s been through, and it’s going to take a lot to get him back to any form of normal. He finds a great ally in Benny Adams and they begin a relationship. He’s so thankful for Benny, but why can’t he embrace Mama Sasy and her group of happy helpers who throw love at him left and right? Maybe because she’s so close to his dad, the one Daniel ran away from two years ago because he was so cruel upon hearing that Daniel thought he was gay. Benny makes him believe in love, and the broad spectrum of characters at Mama Sasy’s eventually make their way into his heart. As time moves forward, Daniel gets an idea about what he wants to do with his life. Benny helps him and they set forth a bold plan. It’s gonna get better, but he’s got to get them all to understand that he needs to take it slow.

Product Link:

http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=97&products_id=3608

Reviewer:   John

Review:  Take It Slow by A.K.M. Miles is a very touchy coming-of-age novel with one of the sweetest messages ever. The story revolves around Nick Webster and his son, Daniel Webster. After revealing to his father that he is gay, Nick explodes and tells him the most hurtful words that any human being could bear. Daniel leaves and walks out of his life with only the clothes on his back and few dollars in his pocket. Upon realizing his mistake, Nicks goes after his son, but it’s too late. And so begins two of the worst years of Nick and Daniel’s lives. Daniel goes from being the rich kid on the block to basically living in the streets. He runs into amazing and kindhearted individuals to mean and repulsive bastards. While Daniel endures pain and suffering, his father goes through the same as he vigorously searches for his son. Destiny takes him to Mama Sasy’s truck stop where she gives shelter to homeless gay boys in Nashville. She is the one that supports Nick and helps him rescue Daniel from an abusive bastard that has him living in fear. Daniel chooses to stay at Mama Sasy’s place since he is still hurt by his father’s words and confuse by his sudden change of heart. After this, the story really takes it slow.

There is no doubt that A.K.M. Miles is terrific writer and the message in this story is very sweet, loving and caring. I loved Nick Webster even though I should have loathed him with all my heart. I instantly fell in love with Jeff and Robb after they were introduced towards the end of the story and I quickly found myself wanting to learn more about them. But, little was said about their love story. Somehow, I couldn’t connect with Daniel or his love of interest, Benny, a gay boy who is living at Mama Sasy’s. I found that strange since they were two of the main characters in the story. Something about this story wasn’t right for me. I found myself becoming inpatient and skipping a few pages which clearly showed that this was not the book for me.

Don’t get me wrong, Take It Slow was not a bad read but it wasn’t satisfying one either. I would recommend this novel to family oriented readers who want to read a beautiful story about a father and son as they try to mend their lives by seeking forgiveness and love. It would be fun for them, but not for the thrill seekers like me.

Shacked Up by Hank Edwards

Title:   Shacked Up

Series: Sequel to: Holed Up

Author:  Hank Edwards

Genre: LGBT Suspense

Length: Short Novel

Publisher: Loose Id (June 5th, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts~ Really liked it.

Blurb:   FBI SFBI Special Agent Aaron Pearce is recovering from his injuries suffered while on assignment in Detroit, stuck in the offices of the FBI running database searches for agents in the field. He is bored and edgy, and takes it out on those closest to him, including Mark Beecher, who lives with him.

While Mark cannot deny the heat between them, he struggles to find his place in Washington, DC, and in Pearce’s apartment. He notices a car following him back and forth to work and panics, certain it’s the terrorist mole Robert Morgan who escaped them in Detroit.

As Mark and Pearce try to identify the driver, Pearce is drawn into an investigation concerning the disappearance of data discs from government employees. During research, he discovers the catering company where Mark works may be at the root of the thefts, and, when the company is booked to cater a prestigious party, Pearce realizes it is the perfect setup for an undercover operation. He doesn’t think twice about disobeying orders to stay out of the field, and risks not only his career, but his life as well, to join Mark in an undercover operation that will change.

As Mark and Pearce try to identify the driver, Pearce is drawn into an investigation concerning the disappearance of data discs from government employees. During research, he discovers the catering company where Mark works may be at the root of the thefts, and, when the company is booked to cater a prestigious party, Pearce realizes it is the perfect setup for an undercover operation. He doesn’t think twice about disobeying orders to stay out of the field, and risks not only his career, but his life as well, to join Mark in an undercover operation that will change their lives forever.

Product Link: http://www.loose-id.com/Shacked-Up.asp

Reviewer:  Cat

Review:   I have been waiting for this one ever since I finished Holed Up! I was not disappointed.  Shacked Up is very well written, delving deeper into agent Pearce’s and Mark’s relationships. Pearce has never had a steady relationship or really been in love. Mark has moved from home and into Pearce’s apartment in DC, but he isn’t sure if it is because Pearce cares about him or is just still protecting him. Morgan, the man that tried to kill him and almost killed Pearce is still on the loose.

So, does Pearce really love Mark or is it just work? Does Mark stay with Pearce or go back home? Who is following Mark and why? Does Morgan come back to finish the job? I am not gonna tell ya you will have to read the book!!

If you love detective stories, relationship conflicts, deep heartfelt romance and really hot mansex…this book is for you!!  I can’t wait to see what happens next!

The Thirteenth Sigil by J. L. O'Faolain

Title: The Thirteenth Sigil

Series: Section Thirteen (Case Files) 03

Author: J.L. O’Faolain

Genre: Urban Fantasy, Mystery, Suspense

Length: Novel Plus (298pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (16th July 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts ~ Loved it!

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: After his last somewhat disastrous assignment, sidhe special detective Tuulois MacColewyn effectively got benched. But when a break-in at a high-tech storage facility leaves no witnesses—alive or, Cole’s specialty, dead—and just one missing canister, he’s recalled to Section Thirteen, the NYPD’s paranormal branch. It’s nice to get to work again with his current flame, Inspector Joss Vallimun, even if they do have their hands full: some mysterious force is cutting a swath through the city in search of that canister. If Cole and Joss figure that out, there’s the disappearances of employees connected to a local children’s television program to solve. Meanwhile, Internal Affairs is breathing down their necks.

But while Section Thirteen is working to find the stolen property and figure out what it is, something even stranger starts happening. Children’s imaginary friends are somehow manifesting themselves—and they’re coming after Section Thirteen. Even with a newly deputized witch and an ogre to bolster their numbers, the detectives have their work cut out for them.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3103

Review: This story is part of a series and I recommend they are read in order. Tuulois MacColewyn (Cole) is re-instated as a special detective for Section Thirteen when a high security storage facility is broken into. He’s happy to be working again, but finds that Section Thirteen is being monitored more closely than he thought. Joss, Cole and the rest of the gang have to discover who or what stole the canister. they find a connection while on another case involving mysterious happenings at a TV studio.

This is an excellent continuation of this fantastic urban fantasy series. Cole, Joss and the gang are back in Section Thirteen, a paranormal unit for paranormal crimes. Cole is recalled back to the unit when something breaks into a secure storage facility. Unfortunately, whatever it is has them all baffled, but they make a slight breakthrough during another case. Cole and Joss are feeling their way through their relationship, with Cole fumbling in the dark trying to get a grip of human relationships. Staffelbach (another Section Thirteen detective) becomes more involved in the paranormal than he ever thought he could. Marcel and Rainette become much closer and lend a huge hand in dealing with the thief. And Corhagen, well, Corhagen is his usually affable charming self. (Sarcasm is a dying art.)

J.L. O’Faolain has definitely given us plenty to work with in this book; danger, excitement, betrayal, love, hot sex, mysterious foes, strange fights and so much more. New foes come to light in this one, but they have a tentative connection to previous foes. Okay, so one of them has an ‘in your face’ connection and flaunts it. We discover new paranormals like the Tulpas, which come in all shapes and sizes. There is a renewal of Naryssa’s child kidnapping and the Internal Affairs and Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn are sniffing around. So these guys have their hands full all the way through the book and the ending was great… I just want the next book so I can discover what is happening to… *shakes head* (you all should know better by now).

The characters are again brilliant and Joss and Cole’s relationship seems to be going well. Corhagen puzzles me slightly in this one, I don’t know why but he seems a bit shifty at times, but at other times he is just one of the guys (well not with Cole, who he is still uncomfortable with). We see a lot more of Staffelbach and get to know him better; he fits right in Section Thirteen. and Marcel and Rainette are interesting characters who round off a great team. We find out a lot more about Cole’s youth, in this one. And at times you forget Cole isn’t human, until his bafflement at human actions comes to the fore. Do not forget the great imagery we are given that has your breath catching as our heroes plunge into danger again and again.

So, with this one, I will recommend it to those who love urban fantasy, ogres, witches, sidhe, hope for Joss and Cole, fights, betrayal, new discoveries, old enemies and a great ending.

 

 

 

Drive Shaft by Geoffrey Knight

Title:  Drive Shaft

Series:   N/A

Author:  Geoffrey Knight

Genre:   M/M Contemporary

Length:  519 KB (68 pages)

Publisher:   Dare Empire eMedia Productions (August 25, 2010)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts-liked it

Blurb:  Jensen Rivers wasn’t looking for trouble. As the new kid on the block at Clyde’s Body Shop, all Jensen wanted was a job, a place where he could put his head down and ass up. Young and handsome, he was the kind of simple, honest guy who was happiest when he was working hard, with oil smeared across his chest and grease up to his elbows.

But Dean ‘Hutch’ Hutchinson plans on getting more than just Jensen’s hands dirty! Reckless and arrogant, drenched in sweat and dripping with a masculinity that cannot be tamed, Hutch challenges Jensen to a series of perilous night races. The prize: sexual domination!

Night after night, wheels burn, passions flare and the no-holds-barred lust between two testosterone fuelled daredevils ignites. But losing a race is one thing. Losing your heart is something altogether more dangerous.

Will Jensen risk everything to find the love trapped behind Hutch’s fearless façade? Will Hutch bury the secret tragedy of his past before he throws away his last chance at a future?

Product Link:    http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/40787

Reviewer:   Artemis

Review:  Drive Shaft is a fast paced, aggressive and very sexy short story that provides a rush of adrenaline and some instant gratification.  Jensen has hired on as a mechanic at his Uncle’s auto shop.  Hutch is fellow mechanic and definitely a bit rough around the edges.  He is full of anger and passion and is looking for a little bit of excitement.  The author hints at loss in his past that causes him to push others away, but readers won’t find out til the end of the book exactly what is traumatizing him.

Jensen and Hutch get along like a house on fire and both have a passionate love of a good automobile.  Hutch challenges Jensen to a race with the prize being full control of that night’s loving.  The race is fast, dangerous, and ends in a rush…as does the sex that follows!  A repeat of the race (and the sex) leaves the reader with the understanding that these are BOTH very strong men with a need for control.  The last race is a tad bit different…the race is just as fierce, but Hutch and Jensen are starting to realize that the connection between them is more than just a battle for the winning position.

I really liked this book and think the character development was done very well, especially for a story as short as this one.  While I have little understanding of the mechanics of a car or motorcycle, I could appreciate what fine pieces of machinery they were.  I was a little skeptical that guys with that much pride in their automobiles would treat them quite as aggressively as Hutch and Jensen did, but they certainly knew how to handle them.  If you are looking for a fast paced and aggressive love story, this is certainly a good choice.

 

Phoenix Rising by Theo Fenraven

Title: Phoenix Rising

Author: Theo Fenraven

Genre: Crime, Mythology,

Length: Novella (176pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (11th July 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: New York City homicide detectives Artemis Gregory and Rachel Wayland are first on the murder scene of a beautiful young gay man, the third victim of a serial killer dubbed the Moon Killer by the department. Their investigation leads them to Talis Kehk, charismatic lead singer of the rock group Phoenix Rising. As the next full moon approaches, Artemis and his partner uncover clues that lead straight to Talis—even as Talis, exhibiting behavior Artemis finds strange indeed considering the circumstances, uses every means possible to keep Artemis close.

Artemis could never fall in love with a murderer, could he? Innocent or not, Talis has a secret… and it’s about to change Artemis’s world forever.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3099

Review: Artemis is on the trail of a serial killer when he follows a thin trail to Talis, the lead singer of a rock group. with the evidence against Talis piling up Artemis is getting ready to move in for the kill, but Talis has other ideas. Talis has spent many years hunting for his soul-mate, now he has found him and all he wants to do is get Artemis to fall in love with him. but, Artemis suspects him of murder, so Talis has to take drastic action to secure Artemis’ affection.

This is an interesting novella that combines mythology with crime and soul-mates and gives us some interesting character building. Artemis lives for his job. he loves the thrill of the chase, but the newest case of young hot gay men being mysteriously murdered have left him baffled. The evidence is plenty, the cause of death undetectable and the suspects nil… until Artemis makes a tenuous connection to the leader of the rock band, Phoenix Rising. Talis is running out of time, he doesn’t have much longer left to find his soul-mate and he finally finds him in the shape of police detective Artemis Gregory. But, Artemis is resistant to his wiles, so Talis has to resort to drastic measures to convince him he did not murder those young men.

There are many things that this book has going for it.  the storyline is good and strong, the plot interesting and the writing is good. But, there are a few things that pulled me from the book, as I had to suspend my disbelief to continue and I was disappointed in the way that Artemis seemed to change half way through the book (I like my characters consistent). Artemis came across as a strong character. he can compartmentalize with ease, but his focus is always on the job. he isn’t about to be swayed by any pretty face and he will catch the criminal… but then he changed and he was all wishy washy, pulled about by his attraction to Talis and completely losing focus of all the young men who were murdered.

Talis was a much more consistent character. he has one focus and that is to survive. I really can’t say if Talis and Artemis would make a good couple because I only saw Talis trying to seduce Artemis over to his side and Artemis going from a strong man to a man in the throes of infatuation.

That isn’t to say that the book isn’t good. Part 1 was brilliant and had me hooked, but then Part 2 started to lose me as Artemis changed. But, then Part 3 threw me for a loop. The storyline of a Phoenix searching for its soul-mate was really good and the string of unsolved gay murders was a brilliant touch. the way the characters were at the start of the book was great and I had very high expectations.

So, I will recommend this to those who love mythical creatures, two hot men, and great, hot sex (lol), impressive written imagery, a great storyline and a happy ending.