Texas Heat by R. J. Scott

65251_438481376234950_1150403078_nTitle: Texas Heat

Series: The Heart of Texas 03

Author: R.J. Scott

Genre: Contemporary, Cowboy

Length: Novel (237pgs)

Publisher:

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Riley and Jack Campbell-Hayes are doing well, and Hayley is a happy nine-year-old. Then twenty models arrive for a cowboy-themed photo shoot, the oil establishment interferes with Riley’s plans, and the scene is set for one very hot Texas Summer!

Riley and Jack Campbell-Hayes are doing well. Jack is expanding the Double D, Riley is close to his first ethical based contract, and Hayley is nearly ten and happy as all get out.

Jack hires Robbie, who is recovering from a loss, as his right-hand man. Riley’s photographer friend, Eli, decides the Double D is perfect for a cowboy-themed model shoot and falls in lust with Robbie. Everyone except Robbie sees how perfect Eli is for him.

Against the backdrop of twenty half-naked male models on Double D land, Texas Heat is the story of one hot summer with a Gay Rodeo, a bar fight at the Rusty Nail, and a love between two men that grows stronger every day.

Purchase Link: 

Review: Riley and Jack have a great life. Jack is going into horse training, Riley’s business, CH, is getting off the ground and everything is going great in their relationship. Robbie comes to work for Jack and Eli convinces Jack to let him use the Double D for a photo shoot and becomes smitten with Robbie. Can Eli convince Robbie that they can have something special? And how do Riley and Jack handle the problems thrown at them?

This is a wonderful story, where we can see the continuation of Jack and Riley’s relationship and see a new one developing on the Double D Ranch. Riley and Jack have their own individual worries in this book, with Riley having to deal with an underhanded investor, and Jack worries about the horse training expansion. We see them both leaning on each other and being there for each other, as well as dealing with ghosts from the past, but above all else we see their abiding love for each other.

The addition of Eli and Robbie is brilliant. The development of their relationship is awkward, but Eli refuses to give up over his mistake. Both Eli and Robbie have had tragedies in the past and while Eli embraces life and welcomes love, Robbie is more gun-shy over loving again. Both these characters fit in seamlessly with Riley and Jack, complementing the other couple while being an individual couple in their own right. don’t make the mistake of thinking they are just background filler because they aren’t, they are a couple with their own story that gets told.

The writing is smooth and so is the storyline, it does jump forward in time by a few months, but it is smoothly done so it doesn’t throw you. Riley and Jack are still as passionate about each other as ever, and Eli and Robbie scorch the pages as well.

I will recommend this to those who love sexy cowboys, hunky businessmen, horny photographers, cute kids, supportive family and a happy ending.

Poison by Megan Derr

Title: Poison

Series: The Lost Gods 04

Author: Megan Derr

Genre: High Fantasy

Length: Novel Plus (236pgs)

Publisher: Less Than Three Press (25th July 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Nine gods ruled the world, until the ultimate betrayal resulted in their destruction. Now, the world is dying and only by restoring the Lost Gods can it be saved.

Verde is ruled by the mortal reincarnations of their Lost Gods: the Faerie Queen, the Pegasus, and the Unicorn, slain nine centuries ago at the base of their Sacred Oak. Every one hundred years, the tragedy repeats itself, plunging Verde ever deeper into despair.

Now, the Tragedy of the Oak draws near and Gael, the Unicorn, grows increasingly afraid because of a dark secret kept by the Three: If he cannot find a way to break the tragic cycle, the Twelve White Beasts and his secret lover are cursed to die right alongside him.

Purchase Link: http://www.lessthanthreepress.com/books/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=92&products_id=323&zenid=30c536b5b23f448e922c2e7019ec1c7e

Review: Gael, the Unicorn is praying and hoping that this time around they will break the curse that has befallen Verde time and time again. He knows that if they fail not only himself and his sister Gods, but also his secret lover and the Twelve Beasts are cursed to die. Ailill is the White Panther asked to undertake the investigation. when the White beasts start to fall, can he discover who is behind the poisonings and why?

Okay. if you have read the previous blog story, then you want to rip it up, chuck it over your shoulder and dance in joy over this much darker and angstier Poison. Gael has been keeping a secret from his sister Gods, Freddie and Etain; he has a lover who he wants to be with more than anything else. Gael no longer loves his sister Gods in any way other than as family, but knows that he cannot reveal his secret until after the Ceremony. Now the White Beasts are being poisoned and the people of Verde are out of control. Ailill is asked to discover the culprit, but the answer is always just out of reach.

This is a wonderful continuation of The Lost Gods series. Ailill is a character that we have seen many times before in previous books; the most memorable being in Burning Bright with Vanya (Ivan). In this one, Ailill is missing Ivan enormously, even though it has been nearly two years since he last saw him. When Ivan comes to visit, he is delighted, but he is embarking on an investigation into the poisoning of the White Eagle. So Ivan helps him out. Gael and his lover are both being pulled apart with keeping their secret and are hoping that the Ceremony will be a success so they can be together. But, as more White Beasts fall they begin to despair as Verde falls apart.

This is a very intricate storyline and although you are given subtle hints along the way, it is still a shock to discover the depths that someone will go to out of jealousy and the refusal to let go. If you have read the original blog story, well here’s a warning because this one is a lot darker and more violence, and with much more bitterness and vindictiveness with no remorse in sight. If you haven’t read the blog story then be prepared for violence, angst, bitterness and vindictiveness with no remorse in sight. In this one we again get a visit from the Gods from the previous books and more clues fall into place as to why Licht turned on his brother and sister Gods.

If you love high fantasy, fantasy, hot sex, brilliant storylines, incredible characters, twists, betrayal, secrets kept for hundreds of years, two great couples fighting their way to be together and a happy ending, then this is the story for you.

 

 

Star Search by J. S. Morbius

Title: Star Search

Author: J.S. Morbius

Genre: Transgender/Transsexuals, Suspense

Length: Novel (165pgs)

Publisher: Naughty Nights Press (30th November 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit/Scorching

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Joe is a gay man who prefers to date Transsexuals. He begins a journey to find the one he just knows he could love – The one woman who has captured his desires in only one night. Do you believe in love at first sight? Joe does, and he is determined to find her against all odds. Explore this suspenseful, dangerous and unusual adventure with Joe as he travels to find love with the third sex…

Joe is a gay man who prefers to date Transsexuals.

Never attending work parties before, Joe decides to attend one after receiving an invitation from his boss but becomes a bit worried, as he is required to bring a partner.

His best friend Angel suggests he hire an escort. Joe goes through the pages on the Internet and finds Star, a stunning, petite transsexual, and books the evening of the party with her.

After spending the most glorious evening and all night with Star, Joe decides he will continue to book Star every weekend. When he gets in touch with the agency he finds out that Star has quit escorting and they can’t give him any more information on how to get in touch with her. Joe becomes obsessed with finding Star.

Star Search is full of hot, sensuous, tender sex, with underlying currents of crime, intrigue and suspense. Lots of twists and turns, with the ultimate question being…

Does Joe find Star, the woman of his dreams?

Warning: Some scenes may cause distress. Unsafe sex and forced sex/dubious consent.

Purchase Link: http://naughtynightspress.com/nnpstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=31   

Review: Joe only dates transsexuals and finding one on short notice to take to a company party is difficult, until his best friend suggests he use an escort agency. He has the time of his life with Star and is desperate to see her again but she leaves the agency. So Joe begins in his quest to track her down and uncovers a viper’s nest of abuse, crime and murder.

This is a pretty good story that is extremely erotic with multiple partners. Joe is gay and his preferred partners are transsexuals, when he needs a date for a party he ends up hiring someone from an agency and ends up wanting to spend more time with Star. But she vanishes and he tries to find her, but he gets threatened to stop looking for her. With the help of his best friend, Angel, Joe goes undercover to find Star and the danger she might be in, and discovers that it goes much further than a disgruntled agency boss.

This story isn’t the most well written book and there are a few inconsistencies that throw you a bit (this is the author’s first published book), but it had something that kept my attention, and no, it wasn’t the hot sex so get your minds out of the gutter (although there is a lot of it and it was well played out). It was the way that Joe became so entranced with Star after just one night and would do anything to find her again, and I do mean ANYTHING. it was the way that it surprised you with its escalation from being a, lust at first site/have to see her again, to the minefield of a slimy sexual underbelly of the transsexual escort business with the danger and abuse involved.

The story is written from Joe’s POV ,so you do get to know him a little bit, but I wanted to know a little bit more about him and Star. I liked the comradely friendships that developed between all the transsexuals and Joe and his friends.  The way they supported each other, even when hateful jibes were thrown their way, and the way that they came together and acted to rescue themselves and each other. I did think Joe was slightly insane at first, when he began his undercover plan and the danger he put himself in… no sorry I still think he was insane *nods head*.

So I have to recommend this to those who love transsexual/transgender stories, danger, slight suspense, twists, a plethora of erotic, hot, steamy sex (and a huge group sex scene), love in awkward circumstances and a happy ever after.

 

 

 

 

 

Diversion by Eden Winters

Title: Diversion

Series: N/A

Author: Eden Winters

Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

Length: Novel

Publisher: Amber Allure (March 18th, 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5+Hearts

Blurb:  Drug dealers aren’t always on the streets; sometimes they sit in offices and boardrooms, selling merchandise in official-looking bottles instead of little cellophane bags…

When given a choice between eight more years in prison or using his “expertise” to assist the Southeastern Narcotics Bureau’s Department of Diversion Prevention and Control, convicted drug trafficker Richmond “Lucky” Lucklighter takes the sentence with the illusion of freedom. Cynical and unwilling to admit he’s begun to care about his job, he counts the days until his debt is paid. His sole obstacle to getting his life back is the rookie he’s assigned to train before he leaves—a rookie, who quotes pharmacy texts, hasn’t paid his dues, and has the obnoxious tendency of seeing the good in everyone, including the target of their investigation.

Former Marine Bo Schollenberger dreamed of becoming a pharmacist, but watched the dream turn into a nightmare of PTSD-fueled prescription drug abuse. Battling his demons daily, he wakes up every morning, wondering, “Will this be the day I give in?” To keep his license, he must now put his skills to use for a diversion control task force, deal with a crude partner with too much attitude and no brain-to-mouth filter, and take down a drug lord who reminds him of his favorite cooking show hostess.

The bad guys don’t stand a chance—if Lucky and Bo don’t strangle each other first…

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/Diversion.html

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: Lucky Lucklighter, what a name, is an accomplished thief. He is the best in his field. Law enforcement agencies teach classed on his techniques, and his case files are in textbooks, but his serving time is nearly over and he’s tired of the life. Yes, he might not be serving time in jail anymore, he might be somewhat free. He might have a job that gives him money, but he’s still not a free man. In two months he’s not going to be obligated to wake up and go in a job he hates (or so he says), he will have full access to his accounts, his name will be on his car and house and his head will be once again out there for every drug-dealer once associated with his past to try to take it off his shoulders. They have a long memory after all. But before all that happen, he must train his replacement.

Bo Schollenberger seems in some very strange ways to be Lucky’s younger self. Past mistakes haunt him, too, and he’s not willing to stand down when Lucky’s being the usual prick. Like Lucky, this is Bo’s second chance to life with the difference that Bo actually likes his job and takes it seriously.

From day one he and Lucky don’t hit it well. So what if Bo is stunning. So what if his backside has Lucky ogling like he hasn’t done in years, they seem hell-bent in knocking each other off. Who would have guessed that a good argument was an aphrodisiac for Lucky? Things don’t stay that way though. As they’re assigned together, living in the same house while trying to get the Intel they need to get the job done, things change. They get to know each other, they get intimate, and even if the arrangement is that this intimacy will last for only as much as the job’s on, Lucky’s finding himself drawn to his partner more and more. His past collides with his present and confusion leaves Lucky faltering for his future plans for the first time in 8 years.

I don’t know what I loved more about this book. Lucky is a brilliantly written character, snarky, arrogant, witty and so damn the “man” it was like the author had him in front of her and did a damned good job portraying him. His demons were so realistic and his acts wonderful. I’m not even mentioning his sense of humor that had me laughing time and again. I felt happy for him, sad and proud, as if he were my brother. And Bo, wow what a character he was, sweet, caring, and loyal. I adored their flaws, their weaknesses. It made them even more real in my eyes. Their “fraternizing” was fantastic; the evolution from a simple hook up to “God, I love you” was perhaps the best I’ve read so far.

But, that’s not just it. I liked all characters, they were all so well written. And the plot, oh my, this story is one of those, you know deep in your heart, should hit the Hollywood screens, but at the same time you know they’ll just screw it up and never be able to convey it properly. Not the least tiresome, it slowly reveals the reasons behind Lucky’s sentence, the demons that haunt him, Bo’s own mistakes, all this while having incredible action, as they try to solve their narcotics case.

I loved, loved, LOVED this book. It’s one of those that I’ll definitely re-read again, and if you’re the least interested in action/crime you will be thrilled to read this one.

Wholeheartedly recommended!

Cordially Invited by Kim Dare

Title: Cordially Invited

Series: Pushing the Envelope #5

Author: Kim Dare

Genre: BDSM, Contemporary

Length: Short Story

Publisher: Amber Allure (January 8th, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: Having been given a sneak peek into Joe’s world, Scott feels it’s only right that he should return the favor.

Perhaps Scott didn’t do so many interesting and kinky things in the past, but he did have a life before he met Joe. When he was in university, Scott worked in a department store and spent many hours fantasizing about the delivery men he saw from the store window. Now, Scott invites Joe to the same store, after it has closed for the night, and Joe decides to show Scott what he would have done if he had found him back then.

For once, Scott’s going to be the one surrounded by the familiar, not Joe. But, does that mean the power balance is about to shift?

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/PTE5_CordiallyInvited.html

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: This time Scott has invited Joe in a part of his past life and his fantasy. He wants to be taken by an unknown, strong delivery man, that will not take no for answer. He wants to feel completely helpless and unable to do anything. Joe is more than happy to oblige, all the time coming closer and closer, not to what a Dom should feel for his sub, rather what a man would feel for his lover. While Joe slips more and more into the delights of being with and wanting only one man, Scott finds it difficult to do or think anything other than what Joe orders him, what Joe wants from him. More and more it seems that his fears and desires, his entire world turns around Joe.

I liked this book, too.  Maybe not as hot as the previous, but now we see a connection forming between the two characters, things falling into place and a relation blooming. What’s even greater is that while all these start happening, both Joe and Scott seem to not really realize it, and that intrigues me even more. This book was clearly about Scott’s fantasy, however, while Joe was the very Dom I expected him to be, the fantasy of having a delivery stranger taking you didn’t work so well for me. Nonetheless an enjoyable read again, I’d recommend this to anyone who’s into being helpless and forced fantasies 😉

Orders Enclosed by Kim Dare

Title: Orders Enclosed

Series: Pushing the Envelope #4

Author: Kim Dare

Genre: BDSM

Length: Short Story

Publisher: Amber Allure (December 11th, 2011)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Joe doesn’t make requests, he gives orders.

Having decided it’s time to expand Scott’s horizons and show him a few parts of the gay circuit he’s never visited before, Joe chooses which club needs to be their first port of call. He doesn’t even hesitate before he orders Scott to present himself in the club’s back room, ready for their next date.

Joe expects obedience, but can Scott live up to the dominant’s expectations?

Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/PTE4_OrdersEnclosed.html

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: Scott has been given his orders, he is expected to follow them, and he does. As difficult as it is for him to enter a world he doesn’t belong in, as many doubts that trouble his thought, he manages to go through with it. Not knowing who is on the other side of the partition doesn’t matter anymore. Joe wouldn’t hurt him, would he?

As much as Joe loved his submissive following his orders it is clear to him that the trip at the glory hole has truly unfazed Scott. Understanding hit home when Scott admits that he was trying to figure out if the man behind the hole was really Joe or if he’d been playing a “joke” on him having a stranger. Someone has hurt his sub in the past and that makes Joe’s fury rise. The possessiveness that controls him, and the need to protect his submissive catch him off guard. Never before has Joe felt like this. Scott finally understands that Joe will not lie to him, especially after what his Dom decides to gift him.

This series continues as hot as ever slowly revealing the character’s feelings. Reasons of why Scott is so shy and closed come to light. His desire to do anything Joe asks from him, even if that goes against his survival instincts, show his blossoming submissive nature, and I loved the display of jealousy and fury from Joe. He slowly is putting both his feet into the “caring” pit and I love it how he doesn’t seem to realize it or even how to handle it. This was definitely another enjoyable read and if you’re into the series keep reading.

 

End Game by Jennifer Brooks

Title: End Game

Author: Jennifer Brooks

Genre: Futuristic (2017) Science-Fiction, Zombie

Length: Novel (171pgs)

Publisher: Musa Publishing (10th August 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: After his cousin is murdered, journalist Jessie Canning reunites with his estranged lover to investigate it.

Jessie was on the phone when his cousin, Ben, was attacked. Fifteen minutes later, when Jessie arrived at Ben’s condo, his cousin was dead. With life and death as close as a minute away, Jessie must work with his estranged lover, Mathew, to learn why anyone would’ve wanted to kill Ben.

Purchase Link: http://musapublishing.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=9&products_id=351

Review: Jessie receives a phone call from his cousin Ben, but as Ben is asking him to come around as soon as possible the line goes dead after a series of thumps. Now with his cousin dead and his estranged husband/lover by his side they have to discover the truth and just what Senergine is trying to hide.

This is quite a unique nanotechnology, zombie suspense story that is quite gruesome, violent and bloody… whoop! Jessie has been dwelling on the separation between himself and his husband. Hoping that Mathew will phone him and they can make things right between them. When he receives a call from his cousin Ben, and Ben seems to be in trouble he drops everything to go help him. But, when he arrives his cousin is dead, the police are there and men in haz-mat suits… could it have anything to do with the company Ben works for? With the help of his estranged husband, he begins to delve into what has happened and discovers what Senergine is trying desperately to hide.

The two main characters in this are Jessie and Mathew, who are married, but have been estranged for a couple of weeks. Their relationship seems a bit stilted and although they do have a wonderful reconciliation scene and incredible make up sex, you still feel like you are missing something in the relationship. The nanotechnology mutating and going wrong was brilliant and scary; something that could be a medical breakthrough turning into something out of a horror story and the developers trying to hide it was really well done.

Combining both story lines into one was well done, as was the emotional turmoil that Jessie goes through throughout the book. We don’t really get a real feel from the other characters like Mathew, Gabriel and Nathen, as the story is all from Jessie’s POV, but we get to know them enough to make us care what happens. This story is violent and bloody and near the end it gets a bit horrific, as you realize the lengths that some scientists will go to, to cover things up and also to discover answers.

I will recommend this to those who love futuristic, nanotechnology, zombie/infected thrillers, with blood, gore and danger and a reconciliation of two stubborn men in love.

 

 

Finding Home by Cameron Dane

Title: Finding Home

Author: Cameron Dane

Genre: M/M Romance

Length: 97 Pages

Publisher:  Loose Id (May 13, 2008)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: Picking pockets and stealing cars, Adam Reyes does what he must to survive. Working Chicago’s O’Hare airport, he feels pretty confident when he spots his next mark.

Security expert Rhone Quinn can’t believe the wiry kid who grabs his cell phone almost gets away with it. Logic says turn the teen over to the cops, but Rhone is a man who trusts his instincts, and his gut tells him to offer the young man a job and a chance to begin a new life. Little does Rhone know that when he makes this choice it will forever change his life, too.

Over the years that follow, a mentor relationship turns into a unique, abiding friendship. It eventually leads to true equality between Rhone and Adam when Adam becomes a full partner in Quinn Security. Unbeknownst to Rhone, as time passes by, Adam is also falling deeply in love. With Rhone. Who isn’t gay. And who doesn’t know that Adam is.

Then, one day, Rhone discovers the truth. Will Rhone’s new awareness of Adam’s feelings bind the men together even more intimately, or tear them apart for good?

Product Linkhttp://www.camerondane.com/findinghome.php

Reviewer:  Madison

Review:  Adam lives on the streets after being kicked out of his house by an abusive, homophobic father. Rhone catches him trying to pick his pocket. Instead of turning him over to the authorities, Rhone offers him a job at his firm, Quinn Securities. The two eventually become roommates and over the course of the next ten years become best friends. Rhone has no idea his friend of so many years is gay until he walks in on a rather startling scene. What follows is an intense encounter between the two.

I enjoyed watching the relationship slowly build. Rhone and Adam cared deeply for one another. Even though the relationship was platonic, I still had the sense that they were in love. Rhone’s cluelessness wasn’t really plausible (didn’t he wonder why Adam hadn’t been on a date in the ten years he’d known him?). It takes these two a frustratingly long time to get together, but it is very satisfying once they do. The erotic scenes are very detailed and drawn out, even if they’re not realistic (neither of them had ever been with a man, yet they had mad lovemaking skills). If you’re in the mood for a hot and steamy read, Cameron Dane does not disappoint.

Emerald Idol by Hank Fielding

Title: Emerald Idol

Author: Hank Fielding

Genre: Contemporary/Historical (Present, 1982, 1984, 1990)

Length: Novel Plus (340pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (13th August 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2 ½ – 3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Once upon a time in the eighties, Nick Davanger’s soulful green eyes and successful record-producer partner turned him into the pop sensation known as the Emerald Idol. But Rusty has been dead for a year now, and though Nick is slowly putting his life back together, it isn’t easy—especially since someone is trying to derail his comeback by blackmailing him about his decadent past.

Enter LA detective Anson Bay, who’s been assigned to keep Nick safe. Anson is the total package, handsome as well as competent. He strives to keep business and pleasure separate, no matter how strong his feelings grow, but his attraction to Nick strains the limits of his professionalism.

To aid the search for a suspect, Nick finds himself reliving his time with Rusty, from London’s steamy all-male strip clubs to fame in the Hollywood Hills. Even if he can’t deny that Anson excites him, Nick’s not sure he can love again. Of course, if the villain who’s blackmailing him succeeds, Nick may never have the chance to find out.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3133

Review: Nick lost the love of his life a year ago and he is starting to get back on his feet again. On the brink of his one man show, Memoirs, someone decides to try to derail it by blackmailing him and it leads to Nick remembering how he started out and his actions since then. With the help of police detective Anson Bay they try to discover who is blackmailing him and Nick discovers that he just might have more room in his heart to love.

Do you know that feeling when you read a blurb and you get that ‘I must read this book’ feeling? Well, I got it from this blurb and I have to say I was heartily disappointed. Nick spends most of the book remembering his past, from his experiences in school to his first brushes with homosexuality, from his first meetings with Rusty to his shock hit single, from his dabbling in drugs to his short fling with someone he could have loved, all the while dealing with his own confusion about his race and how he sees himself. It is all laid bare, with flashes to the present time as he deals with a new blackmailer and a new hope for love.

If you are expecting a racing thriller or suspense or romance because of the blurb then tear your expectations up, this is more of a reminiscing story that goes back over Nick’s life and gives us the bare bones of his past. A lot of what he remembers doesn’t directly go towards the plot, it just shows us what molded Nick to be the way he is, and we see his growth and change as he lives his life. Rusty and Nick’s relationship during the early years was an open one so there are mentions of sex with others, there isn’t much in the way of sex scenes on page and although we are told that Nick loves Rusty we don’t feel the connection of romantic love.

When we finally get brought back to the present we are again left disappointed by the interaction that we see between Anson and Nick, we only really see them briefly together and I didn’t feel a connection to them because we just don’t get to see them together in a romantic way. The blackmail plot was quickly wound up towards the end, but left me with the question of how the hell did they get that set of photos?

What kept me reading this book? Because at times I did wonder when the past was dragging on, and I have got to say it was Nick, he was a fascinating character and I ended up wanting to know what happened to him, how he reconciled having a black father and a white mother when he had been brought up by his grandparents as white and not one of those. Of seeing him struggle and love and endure with a relationship that spanned 20 years and of him finding new love.

I will recommend this to those who want a story of a struggle to find yourself, of making mistakes but carrying on with the love of those around you and of finding love when you least expect it.

Hot Austin Nights by Kate Roman

Title: Hot Austin Nights

Series: A Sip 

Author: Kate Roman 

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short story

Publisher: Torquere Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   Talked into a spring break in Austin, grad student Dan Erickson’s hoping for a hookup, but instead he meets Cord Delgado, a laid-back cowboy who likes good food, good beer and a good hard fuck. Cord bets Dan he can’t sway him from the straight and narrow with three wild, hedonistic days in a town renowned for its party ways. But with a return to the classroom looming, will Dan win the bet and return to New England’s ice and snow? Or will he lose his heart — and his mind — and take a chance on romance?

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_93&products_id=3641

Reviewer:  Cat

Review:  Both Cord and Dan were in Austin to find company. They found they both had a lot in common and Cord asked Dan to stay.  Cord asked for three days to sway him to stay. Dan hated New York, but was committed there. Will Dan go home alone to the cold or will he stay and with Cord?  I’m not telling. You will have to read it yourself.

This was a very sweet and romantic story. My only issue was it was just too short!! I would have loved to read more. The characters were interesting and the scenes were sweet and hot.

I recommend this to anyone that loves a good short fast read, cowboys, college students, sweet love stories and sweet hot loving sex.

Last Dance with Mary Jane by John Goode

Title: Last Dance with Mary Jane

Author: John Goode

Genre: Paranormal, Contemporary

Length: Short (76pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (18th August 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Peter was not prepared when his love Shayne died in a car crash. His days have become therapy and drinking himself to sleep. His only solace is listening to Shayne’s voice mail to hear his voice one last time.

He’s equally unprepared when one night Shayne answers the phone.

He is starting to think that fate is against him.

He has no idea how right and wrong he is.

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title is a love story that does not contain a HEA.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1184

Review: Peter is still in the throes of grief nearly a year after his beloved Shayne died. His regrets are hard to deal with and his only solace is listening to Shayne’s voice on his voicemail, then something happens and Peter discovers that fate may just be taking pity on him.

John Goode has produced a story that is touching, its heart-breaking and it is tragic. Peter is in therapy trying to deal with the loss of the love of his life, he knows who is to blame and he lays that blame at Fate’s fickle feet. Peter just can’t move forward, he has regrets, things he never said and now never can, and he just can’t understand why Fate would take Shayne away from him.

This is a story that will make tears slide down your cheeks, have you whimpering in denial and praying that you will always have the time to say what you need to. Peter and Shayne had already been through enough, Shayne struck down with HIV, but finally pulling through to live a healthy happy life with Peter. But, then he is struck down in a car accident and Peter is left alone. Peter has many regrets and can’t let Shayne go. When Shayne answers the phone one night Peter thinks that he might be able to change Fate.

This is a true love story of pure love that is cut short, and of the grief and the regret that the person left behind endures. The story of how they got together was sweet and the tale of how they got their nick names was romantic they were a couple fated to be together. I really want to say more, but feel that this is a story that must be read, to fully appreciate the turmoil that Peter is going through and his reactions to what is happening around him. All I will say is that I cried. I cried for the what if’s. I cried for his chance to put aside his regrets for life getting in the way and I cried at knowing he had lost the love of his life.

I am going to recommend this to everyone, as it is a story that we all need to read to remind us to appreciate what we have every single day. Now I am off to make sure that my family and friends know how much I love them.

 

Where Nerves End by L. A. Witt

Title:  Where Nerves End

Series: Tucker Springs #1

Author: L. A. Witt

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel

Publisher: Amber Allure (June 3rd, 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts

Blurb: Welcome to Tucker Springs, Colorado. Population, 70-something-thousand. Home to beautiful mountain views, two respected universities, and a ridiculously high cost of living.

Jason Davis can handle a breakup. And an overwhelming mortgage. And a struggling business. And the excruciating pain that keeps him up at night, thanks to a shoulder injury. But handling all of it at once? No, not so much. When his shoulder finally pushes him to a breaking point, Jason takes a friend’s advice and gives acupuncture a try.

Acupuncturist Michael Whitman is a single dad struggling to make ends meet. When a mutual friend refers Jason as a patient, and Jason suggests a roommate arrangement to alleviate their respective financial strains, Michael jumps at the opportunity.

But for Jason, living together would be easy if he wasn’t so damned attracted to Michael. The temptation to act on his feelings might just be too much if not for the fact that Michael is straight. Or at least, that’s what their mutual friend claims…

Product Link: http://amberquill.com/AmberAllure/WhereNervesEnd.html

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: Oh, Jason has it real bad. His life seems to have taken the downfall on all departments. His love life sucks, his lover abandoned him for a sugar daddy and left him with the mortgage which he can hardly pay on his own. His professional life sucks even more; his partner died and left him with a great deal of loans and a night-club that hardly makes any profits. But, you know what they say,” if you got your health you got everything”. Problem is that Jason has health issues to top it all. A shoulder injury resulting in chronic pain that leaves him up all night, making his life quality reach bottom. This is where Michael makes his appearance.

Michael is an acupuncturist. After being drilled for several years from his friend, Seth, Jason makes it up his mind to go and see this miracle worker acupuncturist for his pain. It helped a lot the fact that he can barely move his arm or do his work anymore. But the moment he lays eyes on Michael, he doesn’t know what hits him. Michael is magnificent and to put it in Jason’s words “He’d taken that old cliché “tall, dark, and handsome” and made it his little bitch.”

I don’t think I’ve read a book where the protagonists have such an incredible chemistry as Michael and Jason. Although this book is written entirely from Jason’s point of view, the author manages to convey that feeling, at least to me. I was literally bouncing on my chair while reading this book.

Anyway, this story is more a “coming out” story. Jason is gay, but Michael is straight, or at least that’s what he’s been convincing himself and his entire environment for way too many years. The plot has him moving in with Jason as a roommate, leaving Jason in a frustrating state. who said it was easy living with an eye-candy? But, that much tension, that much lust can hardly be contained, and when they finally get together, it’s like rocks colliding. What a hot, HOT scene. Their feelings are so damn intense that make their following break-up even more so. They don’t fight, no; Jason understands that Michael can’t from one day to another change everything in his life, especially when his son is around. How do you explain that to a little boy, but understanding doesn’t make it the least bit easier. Emotions build up and lead to frustration and stress, which leads to awkwardness and pain, which leads to…

Yeah, I loved this book. This was the kind of romance I like and it had me hooked so tightly I once again forgot to sleep. Yes, this book was one of those that you only close when the end has hit the page and you suddenly look around and see the sun rising. It had it all.

Great characters, check.  Both of them were fantastic, so real, with real issues, with real reactions. God, I loved those characters.

Supporting team, check. Seth, their mutual friend couldn’t be better, adding to their life greatly and the ex-wife, hah, I so loved how she reacted. Michael’s kid, Dylan, greatly portrayed. All in all people-wise it was very well done.

The plot was brilliant portraying everyday life in such a realistic way I thought “damn, who’s she been spying on”. The emotions conveyed was what had me in tight grip though. From the day-to-day life, to the sexual scenes emotions had me by my neck holding me in place to feel and live them all along with the characters. A very, very well written book, one I’d strongly recommend anyone to give it a go.

 

(Un)Masked by Anyta Sunday And Andrew Q. Gordon

Title: (Un)Masked

Author: Anyta Sunday & Andrew Q. Gordon

Genre: Contemporary, Fantasy

Length: Novel (206pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th August 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Jay Walker has two wishes: to perform the play of his dreams alongside his best friend at Wellington’s Tory Street Theatre, and to meet that special someone. Someone he’d go to the ends of the earth for. Someone who might only exist in fairy tales.

When Jay meets accordion busker Lethe Cross, it’s like living a dream come true. Lethe’s music captivates Jay, and he resolves to meet the man who plays so beautifully. But then he discovers Lethe’s life is more like a nightmare. The phrase “down on his luck” can’t begin to cover it. Determined to help, Jay does some snooping for answers—and winds up on the wrong end of a centuries-old curse. The good news is there’s a way to break it. The bad news is it might cost Jay his life.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3151

Review: Jay and his best friend, Gristle, have one dream together, to perform at Wellington’s Tory Street Theatre. and Jay has another dream, to meet his soul-mate. Lethe, an accordion busker turns out to be that person, but there is more to Lethe than meets the eye and Jay does his best to support Lethe when he learns the truth. But, something in the shadows wants them to fail and will do anything to ensure it.

This is a story that will leave you with more questions than answers, but still oddly satisfied with the end result. Jay and Gristle have been best friends and brothers for twelve years, when Jay meets Lethe, he discovers that there are things out there that he never imagined, but it doesn’t stop his feelings for Lethe. Lethe has never had anyone want him just for being him before and the two begin to fall in love, but something tragic happens that could drive a wedge between them and Jay tries to break Lethe’s curse, but it could cost him his life.

I just want to say before we go any further that Gristle was my favorite character. He was full of life and made Jay live his life with a touch of excitement and anticipation. Even though he was the best friend and straight, he gave this book a lot of character throughout the first part of the book and I will never, ever forgive the authors for the shock they gave me in part two… never, because I carried that shock throughout the second half and I felt everything that Jay did. I could fully understand Jay’s need to do the play the way he did and his need longing and guilt was so well written.

We get to know the characters as best we can, but we aren’t given much background about them, which left me feeling a bit frustrated. How did Jay and Gristle become such good friends? What’s their back story? Why was Lethe’s bloodline cursed? These are things that the more I read, the more I wanted to know the answers to. The characters are brilliantly written with the emotions laid out bare for us to see. Jay’s sacrifice towards the end was breath-taking, the ultimate gift of love with just a touch of selfishness thrown in. Although there is romance and love between Jay and Lethe we don’t see any sex scenes, it’s all off page and surprisingly you don’t feel like you missed out.

I am going to recommend this to those who want something a bit different in their paranormal, as it is just hints and lingering feelings. Who want a soul touching story of two young men fighting to make a go of it when the curse goes against them, of a love between friends that brings tears to your eyes and a happy ending with a challenge still lingering in the future.

 

Vestige by K. J. Pederson

Title: Vestige

Series:  N/A

Author: K.J. Pederson

Genre: Science Fiction, Mystery Suspense, Other Paranormal

Length: Novella

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:  Josiah Halden’s life is coming apart. He’s an athletic, handsome high school senior bound for college.  He should be on top of the world. Instead, he’s struggling with his sexuality and nursing a crush on John from his gym class, and he’s plagued by nightmares and impossible visions of the night his parents died-visions he fears are an early indicator of the mental illness that runs in his family.

But the nightmares are a part of something more sinister than madness, something linked to the strange black iron idol of a Canaanite warrior-God Josiah inherited from his father, which keeps showing up in his dreams. Josiah’s friend Makani insists the statue is “wrong”-but that’s ridiculous, isn’t it? After all it’s only a statue…..
Product Link:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3148

Reviewer:  Cat

Review: Josiah is smart, handsome and athletic. He seems to have it all, but is struggling with his sexuality. He is also plagued by nightmares and he thinks he is going insane like his grandfather and great-grandfather. His nightmares are plagued by a statue he inherited from his father of a Canaanite warrior. His friend, Makani, thinks he should get rid of it. that it is bad to bring an idol of a God onto the island.  Is Makani right?  Josiah is also struggling with a crush on a friend from gym class.  Does John feel the same way about Josiah?  I am not telling you will have to read the book and find out yourself.

I thought the story was a very sweet story of a young boy dealing with his sexuality. Actually, a few young boys dealing with their sexuality. I liked the sweet playful sex between the boys as they tried to find love.

The story had a lot of mystery and twists and turns.  I found the dream scenes very confusing and there were so many of them. I also found myself wondering where were the adults since the boys were eighteen and under. But overall the story was good and interesting with plenty of twists and turns and some fun playful sweet sex.

I recommend this story to anyone that likes a touch of supernatural or paranormal, Mystery and suspense, coming of age, young me coming into their sexuality and a sweet hot love story.

The Square Peg by Alex Snow and Jane Davitt

Title:  The Square Peg

Author:  Alexa Snow & Jane Davitt

Genre:   Contemporary, BDSM, D/s

Length:  Novel (229 pages)

Publisher:  Loose Id (August 7th, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:  Benedict, a successful accountant, who’s just been dumped for being boring, is surprised and pleased to learn that he’s inherited half ownership in a gay bar from his estranged father, seeing it as a chance to get out of his rut. That’s until he meets his new partner, a mouthy, disturbingly hot Brit called Shane, and discovers that the bar’s in the red and Shane’s not interested in renovations that could drive away their regulars.

When a late-night confrontation turns into the hottest sex either of them has experienced, they realize there’s one way to fit a square peg into a round hole, but are they solving problems or papering over the cracks? As they explore the new dynamic between them, pushing their limits until Ben’s shocked at where his desire to dominate Shane takes him, the renovations to the bar begin. They’re building something new, something good — but fear and an unexpected act of violence may tear down what they’ve created.

Product Link:  http://www.loose-id.com/the-square-peg.html

Reviewer:   Any

Review: I had mixed feelings about this book. At some points I flew through the pages, eager to see what would happen next, and at other points, I was tapping my toes.

Let me start with the things that had me flying through pages:

  • The clean writing. The authors use clear, precise sentences to convey information, and they employ many of the senses in any given scene. That led to a more tactile experience of the book, where I felt, smelled, and heard as well as saw the story being played out.
  • The two perspectives. This choice was great. I loved reading how the other felt/thought. It kept things interesting.
  • The Square Peg. I liked the idea of the bar and its transformation (which nicely echoed the relationship status between Shane and Benedict – at least for the beginning).
  • The sex scenes. Yeah, they were pretty hot for the most part. Certainly they had me flushed. 😉 (More on this further down . . .)
  • Vin. What a wonderful likeable character. His story is going to sweep me away. I can just feel it, and the end of The Square Peg alludes to that story coming pretty soon. This hook was a great way of sucking in readers for wanting more.

The things that made my foot tap:

  • The 180 lust to love. This happened too quickly that it didn’t feel real. I would have liked a little more development emotionally between Shane and Benedict.
  • Ben as a Dom. I think this was the crux of my issues with the book. When I first started reading, I was introduced to a character who, to me, did not feel the confident Dom type. In fact, I was thinking, if anything, it would have been Shane to be the more aggressive of the two. Now, as the story progressed, I accepted the fact it wouldn’t be as I anticipated, and went with it, but that first transition made the experience a bit rocky.
  • Coming hand-in-hand with this ‘something’s not quite right with Ben as a Dom’ was the way Ben seemed to second guess his actions after giving Shane a firm hand. I wavered with this one. Sometimes I was irritated, I guess I just wanted strong and commanding and no quibbles. Then, at other times, I thought maybe these insecurities show a more realistic side to someone trying out being a Dom for the first time.

Overall though, this was a good read, and I would recommend it to those in the mood for a light, erotic read. It’s fun.

 

Plunder by Kari Gregg

Title: Plunder

Series: Spoils of War 02

Author: Kari Gregg

Genre: Slave, Master, Prisoner of War

Length: Novel (172pgs)

Publisher: Loose Id (14th August 2012)

Heat: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Captured as a boy when Herra invaded his homeland, Micah realizes that finding his way to freedom in Alekia with his savior and lover Eli was the easier task. They now hide among the Alekites, but battle with Herra looms.

With Eli’s love, Micah must come to terms with his status as a noble and his mother’s birthright of witch’s blood inside him. The two also face the father Micah cannot forgive and Eli’s family, who very much want Eli back as firstborn heir rather than the lowly slave who rescued the king’s favorite son.

When court intrigues stir and Herran armies march to war, Micah and Eli must make their stand…or fall as plunder.

Purchase Link: http://www.loose-id.com/spoils-of-war-plunder.html

Review: This book is part of a series and must be read in order. Micah is finding it hard to acclimatize to his freedom. The only person that he can truly feel safe with is his slave/master Eli. Micah is expected to be the savior of Alekia, but he doesn’t know how and as he learns the truth of Eli’s past, he fights to do the right thing.

This book takes up where Spoils of War finished. It continues with Micah still trying to come to terms with being free, never mind a Prince and heavily relying on Eli. Micah and Eli are ensconced in a villa that to Micah is like a gilded cage, the new things he is supposed to learn, the punishments he receives from his tutor and then discovering what his father really wants him for. Micah still struggles with his own instinctive behavior and now also the magic that he learns resides inside him.

This is an excellent continuation of Spoils of War. One that doesn’t pretend that all Micah has suffered in the past can be easily overcome. one that shows you the continued struggle that Micah is going through, not just how he views himself as a slave, but also how hard he finds it to believe that he deserves Eli’s love. Eli acts a bit out of character to try to force Micah to become the man Eli knows he can and Micah finds it very hard to believe his father ever loved him. The storyline is brilliant. Even with Micah free from his captors he still feels like a prisoner and Eli trying to find ways to make Micah realize he is still the person he was before he was taken.

Micah is a strong character; in his suffering he is so much stronger than he thinks. Eli might be the rock that he desires, but Micah can find the strength to stand by himself when he truly needs to. The mental suffering he endures as his memories return, memories he banished when he was first captured is quite harrowing, and the way that he tries to protect his love, Eli, is touching. Eli is the perfect foil for Micah, the strong slave/master who gave up everything for the man he loves and adores, who will always be there for the man he will be. There are many erotic sex scenes, many of them with Micah reaffirming to himself that he is really Eli’s and that Eli was his.

I will recommend this to those who like traumatic recoveries, prisoner of war survivors, true love in hard situations, betrayal, forgiveness, violence and finally, an ending that will hopefully lead to a happy ever after.

 

 

 

Rayne's Wild Ride by Jambrea Jo Jones

Title: Rayne’s Wild Ride

Series: N/A

Author: Jambrea Jo Jones

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella

Publisher: Total E-Bound (October 31st, 2011)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: Rayne Carr was riding his bike, minding his own business when his life was forever changed. Driving over State Boulevard Bridge he sees a woman about to jump and intervenes. Appearances can be deceiving.

Charles Sylvester Piper, III wants to end it all. No one understands him. His father is abusive and his mother hides in a bottle. When his younger brother finds Piper in his favorite dress he is kicked out of his basement apartment. With nowhere to turn he leaves his life to fates hands. When a big scary biker asks for a kiss on the worst night of his life, who is he to refuse.

Is love really all you need?

Product Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?P_ID=1399

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: Piper is a 22-year-old man, he’s gay, and he likes dressing in woman’s clothes. When he’s discovered by his father he suffers a violent scene and gets thrown out.  In a moment of emotional instability, Piper decides to end his misery by jumping off of a bridge. A biker passing by sees him and in his attempt to stop him asks for a kiss. Piper has never had a kiss and can’t resist the temptation of having at least one before he ends his life.

Ray can’t believe the lighting that strokes him by this woman’s kiss. Such a passionate person should not be trying to end her life and he makes it up his mind to do his best to help her… or him, as it turns out the gorgeous woman is a man dressed up…a stunning one that is.

This is how the story starts and it follows the efforts of Piper finding himself and standing on his feet, accepting all that he is. On one side, his dysfunctional family with a violent father, a drunken mother, and an uncaring brother. On the other, there’s Ray, a big bear of a man who seems not only to have no problem with Piper’s kink, but finding him actually hot. And Ray’s family, of course, that is the exact opposite of his. They are caring, accepting, and giving.

Piper’s character was fairly emotional and confused. Although he is 22 years old, he’s very much innocent, being in the closet for so many years and having constant fear of his father in every corner. I would have loved this story to be a bit darker, a bit more real perhaps.  It flows so light and that makes no justice for the protagonist’s background.

Ray, on the other hand, is the very essence of sunshine. He’s literally the incarnation of a guardian angel. He shows up, saves the helpless Piper and sticks by him as if they’d known each other for years. At least they make up with their intimate moments. They do look good together and the sexual scenes that follow are hot and cute at the same time.

All in all, this was a fairytale, a romance that had the Snow-white, the Prince, the “dwarfs” and the evil Witch. Not entirely my thing, but if you’re into romance with a smooth, flowing plot this is your book for you.

 

 

A Cat Named Hercules by K. C. Kendricks

Title: A Cat Named Hercules

Author: K.C. Kendricks

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (119 Pages)

Publisher:  Amber Allure (January 15, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb: New in town, Shiloh Rudy joins a group of civic-minded volunteers to better acquaint himself with his recently adopted community. It’s a good way to make friends, network, and help make a difference, not to mention perhaps meet someone interesting—in a romantic sort of way. The one thing Shiloh didn’t expect was a love to rival all others to come with four white paws.

Gale Widmyer is on his feet and moving forward after piecing his life back together following a series of wrong choices. The one bright spot in his existence, even in his darkest moments, was the fulfillment of his dream to become a veterinarian. Gale’s making good on a promise to himself when an abandoned kitten leads him to Shiloh Rudy and a chance at the happiness he never hoped to have.

Laying the cornerstone for a developing relationship comes easy for Shiloh and Gale. But the wounds of the past often remain unhealed at their deepest point. A few careless words erect a wall of silence between the two men, one Shiloh has to breach if he hopes to win Gale back. But it will take more than apologies to win Gale’s forgiveness and put old fears to rest. It’ll take a cat named Hercules…

Product Linkhttp://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/CatNamedHercules.html

Reviewer:  Madison

Review: Shiloh is new in town. Despite having a group of good friends to pal around with, he is lonely. He’s ready to settle down and try his hand at a long-term relationship. Especially after meeting Gale, a local veterinarian he meets after finding and adopting a stray kitten.

Gale, who is in his mid-30s, has just recently come out of the closet after a painful divorce. He has never been with a man before, so he is hesitant to accept Shiloh’s advances. Their strong mutual attraction, however, cannot be denied.

These two have amazing chemistry both in and out of the bedroom. They are a perfect match. They adore each other, just as much as they adore the feisty little kitty cat that brought them together. I hesitate to call this story “adorable” (although it is) only because it was also very, very hot. K.C. Kendricks not only lets us peek inside the bedroom, she also lets us peek right under the covers to witness all of Gale’s firsts in what are some very steamy love scenes.

Once I started reading, I could not put this one down! Loved it!

Favorite quote: “If I had only known kittens can climb drapes, perch on top of a traverse rod, and then screech like some femme fatale in a low-budget horror flick to be rescued. That a kitten sounds like a herd of buffalo running on hardwood floors in the middle of the night. If I had only known a kitten’s claws can sink through a sheet into your balls while you’re jerking off. An old adage says, “Live and learn,” and I amassed an encyclopedic amount out cat wisdom in less than twenty-four hours.”

Catching Kit by Kay Berrisford

Title: Catching Kit

Author: Kay Berrisford

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (120pgs)

Publisher: Loose Id (24th July 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: He was supposed to trap him, not fall in love.

When government agent and Ethereal Being hunter, Denny, has to imprison an elf in his garage overnight, his life spins out of control. Caught and cuffed on the London Underground, Kit shatters everything Denny’s been taught about elves. How can Kit be a dangerous, mind-reading cipher who preys on human emotions? Kit’s gorgeous and funny, and he’s got a cute arse. He even shares Denny’s quiet kinks for bondage and cross-dressing. Or so Kit claims.

When Kit wiles his way into Denny’s house for a session of mind-blowing sex, the elf seems too good to be true–until reality strikes. Denny’s fucked an elf. A prisoner in his charge. If he doesn’t take Kit to the containment depot he’s in big trouble, and Kit’s about to drop an equally devastating bombshell.  The elf’s been searching a thousand years for a bloke like Denny. He ‘gets’ Denny’s kinks, adores role play and women’s panties, and now he needs Denny’s love to survive.

Is Kit preying on Denny’s emotions, or can Denny trust him? If so, dare Denny break the law and gamble his life to save the Ethereal Being in his bed?

Purchase Link: http://www.loose-id.com/catching-kit/

Review: Denny is a hunter, an Ethereal Being (Elves) Hunter. It is his job to round up the EB parasites before they bleed the emotions from humans. But, when he catches one on the London Underground he discovers that the EBs might not be the dangerous beings that he has been led to believe. He falls rapidly for the cute elf Kit. But, what is he supposed to do now? The Being he has fallen for is supposed to be a danger to humans and there is no way the government is going to let them be.

This is a great novella that shows us a different take on Elves, and the view that humans have on them. Denny is just doing his job, but when he comes across Kit the last thing he wants is to do his job. In fact, he has to resist the temptation that the elf poses, but it is a losing battle. Especially, when he discovers that they share a love of women’s underwear and slightly kinky sex. All Kit wants is for someone to love, and not to fade. He thinks he has found that with Denny, but he has to convince the sexy hunter not to take him in.

Kit and Denny come together very quickly and the main story is spanned out over just a couple of days. It is an interesting story-line and could have been fleshed out quite a bit more. I wanted to know more about the elves and how they came to be, it was very vague. The humans way of dealing with them was, well, to be expected really, but again, I would have liked to know more about exactly what they do and why. Denny’s background was interesting and I liked that it seemed to be quite involved with his decisions.

Denny and Kit were hot and sexy together and I must admit I do like a man who wears women’s underwear. The slinkier the better. And, I really liked that Kay Berrisford had a man’s man wearing them, as it hits closer to reality then it always being slinky, feminine men wearing them. The epilogue was interesting and I would love to actually read a story based on it and the struggles they faced in being together and campaigning against the government for EB rights.

So, I will recommend this to those who love the paranormal, elves, secret government agencies, hot sex, a touch of kinky sex, hot men in women’s underwear and a very happy ending.

 

 

Garnets of Destiny by Serena Yates

Title: Garnets of Destiny

Series: Gemstone Chronicles 01

Author: Serena Yates

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal, Alternative World

Length: Novel Plus (274pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (4th August 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Zachary is homeless after escaping his abusive family. Selling a garnet ring given to him at birth by the mysterious Messenger would be enough to rent an apartment. Zohar, a good-looking jeweler, promises to help–but can Zachary trust him?

“Good stories are as rare as flawless high carat gemstones.” –The Collector

Zachary, abused for years by his adoptive parents, finally runs away. He knows he’s safer on his own than in their so-called care. Homeless and desperate for money so he can put down a deposit for an apartment, he decides to sell the antique garnet ring his parents received from the mysterious Messenger at Zachary’s birth.

Zohar Zyngold is crown prince of Zelaria, a world very similar to Earth in a parallel dimension. On his twenty-fifth birthday, during the traditional ceremony, the antique garnet ring his father passed on to him starts emitting an intense red light. Only finding the bearer of the matching ring that has been located on Earth will allow him to fully control his new paranormal powers. Using some of them to cross into Earth’s dimension, he masquerades as a jeweler, hoping to attract the ring’s owner.

Zachary and Zohar are not only attracted to each other when they first meet, their rings emit a deep red light when they touch. Zachary gets scared and runs, but criminals attack him and Zohar when he tries to help. They flee to Zelaria to discover that their problems have only just begun…

This book is the first in a series called the Gemstone Chronicles, a collection of unique love stories and romances brought to you from the Void Outside Space and Time. These volumes are hand-selected by the Chroniclers, a team of beings working tirelessly to bring you interesting sensory experiences, works of art and music, as well as entertaining stories. With several dimensions and all of time at their disposal to find the most fascinating tales, the range of adventures is as unique as each individual Collector. A special being with extraordinary imagination, he is the focal point and provides new and interesting ideas that are put together in the Hall of Collections for all to admire and enjoy.

Read more about the Gemstone Chronicles and its various worlds in the special brochure coming soon to the Silver Publishing website! The Gemstone Chronicles Companion will showcase the entire collection as it is built story by story, updated each time a new one joins the group. Don’t miss it!

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1195

Review: Well, this is great start to what looks to be a brilliant collection of 12 stories. Zachary is living on the streets, he ran away from his abusive adoptive parents four years before, and now he is desperate. he decides to sell the ring that he got from his natural parents before they died and meets Zohar, who both scares him and makes him feel safe. Zohar travelled to Earth to find the match to his Garnet ring and his bond-mate, when he finally meets Zachary he’s delighted that he is his bond-mate as well as the owner of the matching Garnet ring. when they flee to Zelaria to escape the men after Zachary, they discover much more than they thought possible.

This is a brilliant story that gives a great background to the Collector, his purpose and the men who work with him. Zohar and Zachary are characters in a story written for the Collector, but are they? Or are they real people, in real worlds, living their lives for the benefit of the Collector’s story? I can’t answer that question, but what I can answer is that this is like a story inside a story. We have the story of the Collector and the Chroniclers, and the Chroniclers are the ones who create what the Collector wants. Do they manipulate time, space, people and places to create the stories? Or do they write the story which is then enacted? I really couldn’t tell you, but we get to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Zachary and Zohar meet in awkward circumstances with Zachary being forced to sell his Garnet ring. Zohar knows the basics of what to expect when he meets Zachary, but he is still unsure of what will happen. Zachary is very wary of men. His experience has led him to believe that big men like to use their fists. So when he first meets Zohar, he is frightened by the feelings the bigger man invoke. Zohar has a lot to explain to Zachary, but circumstances force his hand and he has to take Zachary to his home world… and that’s the beginning of their adventure.

So, have I confused you all enough now *snicker* good! So this story has left me wanting more (Amethysts of Wisdom hurry up and get published). Because this one had sweet gentle love, a slower courtship, political intrigue, danger, persecution, physic powers, a kidnapping, a great rescue and some hot sweet loving. This story is really well written and has a fantastic plot, (I am intrigued to see what the rest of the series will be). Great characters and a softer romance, with more getting to know each other and less sex.Did I mind the less sex? Well, no. Not really. Because the sex scene that we do get means all the more for their love, because they did wait *sigh* so romantic.

I am going to recommend this to those who want a sweet gentle love story with danger, hot sex, political intrigue, with dimensional travel to alternative worlds, with physic abilities and a happy ending. Honestly this story is enjoyable and unique, I highly recommend it.