Yin and Yang by Edward Kendrick

Title: Yin and Yang

Author: Edward Kendrick

Genre: Contemporary, Crime

Length: Novel (200pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (20th October 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – High

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Two men–Kenyon, a street cop looking for a permanent, loving relationship, and Teo, a social worker and player in his off hours–come together as they try to help a seven-year-old boy abandoned on the streets by his mother.

Neal, a young boy, abandoned on the streets by his mother, is found by policeman Kenyon Hagerty, bonding instantly with him. Social worker Teo Marino becomes involved when the boy is placed in the care of Human Services.

Kenyon is looking for real love while Teo is the consummate playboy, moving from one man to another. And yet these two men, truly yin and yang, are drawn together.

When the body of the Neal’s mother is discovered, murdered, and later Neal’s father tries to kidnap him from the children’s home where he’s living, Neal runs away, looking for Kenyon who he believes will adopt him. The two men must make a decision regarding Neal’s life, and their own.

Purchase Link: This edition is no longer available 

Review: Kenyon discovers Neal, a young boy, on the streets. Neal tells the tale that his mom has been taken and they were on the run from his father. Kenyon has to hand the sweet little boy over to Human Services and the caring hands of Teo. Kenyon and Teo are drawn together although they are opposites when it comes to relationships and they somehow make it work. Neal has dreams of his own which include both Teo and Kenyon, now both Kenyon and Teo have decisions to make.

This is a very sweet story that has a bit of danger, a touch of angst, but a lot of hope and joy. Kenyon has an instant connection to Neal when he meets the little boy in a stinking alley where Neal is hiding, waiting for his mom. It isn’t long before the story is told and Neal is taken in by Human Services as the police hunt for his mother. Sadly, she is found murdered and Neal’s father is now hunting for him. Kenyon and Teo are unsure if a relationship between them will work, but decide to give it a go. After a slight misunderstanding they take the plunge, but it isn’t long before they have to make a new decision about their lives.

I enjoyed this story and really liked how it progressed. Kenyon and Teo are two very different men; with Kenyon wanting someone to settle down with, while Teo has been like a butterfly flitting from man to man. The connection between the two men seems strong and recovers well after a slight blip. The sex between them is hot, but their connection goes far beyond the physical. Neal is a very sweet young boy who has a slight physic ability which makes the story much more interesting, although the appearance of Neal’s father is expected it was far different than I had thought it would be.

I loved how Edward Kendrick gave us an ending many years into the future, it was wonderful to see Kenyon and Teo’s relationship and their relationship with Neal during pivotal moments of their lives and to see how they had all grown together into a true family.

I recommend this to those who love how opposites attract, sexy men, cute kids, happy families, hot sex, a touch of danger and a very happy ever after.

 

Snow by Pelaam

Title: Snow

Author: Pelaam

Genre: Science Fiction

Length: Novella (136pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (20th October 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Looking into the disappearance of a childhood friend, Nolen discovers an underground world with genetically created miners. To his shock, Snow is also there. Nolen is determined to take Snow home, which means defeating another created being, a Guardian.

Discovering more to the disappearance of his childhood friend Snow, Nolen heads his team to investigate. It includes sexually charismatic Terrian, an ex-lover, and Qamar, an empathic Aeriyan.

On the planet Ignis, they find the remains of the ship carrying Snow, but no sign of him.

Escaping a predator, Nolen falls down a shaft leading to an underground world. He finds genetically created miners and Snow, who has lost his memory.

Snow and Nolen realize their love and Nolen is determined to get them home. That means ascending the shaft protected by a Guardian, set by the Masters.

When Snow is badly hurt, Nolen goes for help, but will he be in time?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/915

Review: Nolen is sent on a mission to discover the truth of new information about the disappearance of his childhood friend, Snow (Delling). His team-mates Terrian and Qamar join him on the planet Ignis, a primitive world with only animal life. A confrontation with a predator leads to the discovery of an underground world where Snow has lived for 2 years. But, escaping the underground world is not as easy as Nolen wishes.

A wonderful science fiction take on the Snow White fairy-tale. Nolen has never quite been able to really connect with another man, and he only discovers the reason why when he discovers Snow again. Terrian has a hard time trusting anyone with his heart and Qamar won’t be pushed around in love. Snow has been looked after by the inhabitants of the underground world of Ignis and can remember nothing of his life except that a monster wants his heart. Nolen and Snow have to return to the surface, but the Guardian tries to stop them and Snow’s life hangs in the balance.

We receive a treat with this story as we have not one, but two romances to enjoy. Nolan and Snow’s romance is sweet, childhood friends who adored each other, but had little contact. Snow’s hope of getting Nolan to see him as an adult put paid by his step-mothers schemes, re-uniting and Nolan realizing what he had been hiding from himself and Snow’s inner recognition of just what Nolan means to him. Then we have Terrian and Qamar, who have a slightly more tempestuous relationship. as Terrian has flitted from relationship to relationship to protect his heart, while Qamar has patiently waited for the chance to catch him and claim him.

The background story is good. Taking the Snow White storyline and twisting it to a space setting, while adding a touch of danger in the setting of a primitive world, and giving two couples the chance to find true love. Both couples have their unique lovemaking, but both couples are very hot in the bedroom, or the pool, or floating around and even in the med bay.

I have to recommend this to those who like science fiction, futuristic fairy-tales, wonderful characters, hot varied sex, a great storyline and a very happy ending.

 

Book of Secrets by R. J. Scott

Title: Book of Secrets

Series: Oracle 02

Author: R.J. Scott

Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal

Length: Novel (183pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (27th October 2012)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Alex is trying to make things right when his past catches up with him. A Serbian ex-art thief blackmails him into stealing an ancient folio from Windsor Castle… Luke is kidnapped… and that’s just the beginning.

Alex is making good on his promise to put things right. Along with Griff and Chris, he retrieves items he had stolen with Edward and replaces them. It’s dangerous work, especially since he lost his most useful Oracle-given powers. When a replacement goes wrong and Alex ‘disappears’ he realizes that something has left a mark he can never rid himself of.

Meanwhile Luke is kidnapped to work on a manuscript that could hold the key to the secrets of alchemy and offer the reader eternal life. The Voynich manuscript is missing its cypher and it’s up to Alex to steal it for the Serbian ex-art thief. Only–it’s held in the private library at Windsor Castle.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1325

Review: This book is part of a series and must be read in order. Alex made Luke a promise to return the items he stole; unfortunately it is harder for him than he thought now that he no longer has his powers. But, it gets even worse when Luke’s life is threatened, if Alex doesn’t retrieve an item from Windsor Castle. Alex also has more problems than he wishes to admit to Luke. when his powers start to reappear and Luke is pissed when he is kidnapped in order to translate a manuscript, but the lure of translating old texts is hard to resist.

A wonderful story where we get to see how Alex and Luke along with their friends Griff and Chris are now doing, and also the new adventure that they all get dragged into by a father desperate to save his daughter. Alex is confused and a little afraid when his powers seem to be re-awakening and is dreading confessing it to Luke in case Luke leaves him. But, he then also has to worry about a figure from his past suddenly reappearing and placing them in danger. Luke has to accept that sometimes breaking the law has to be done when it saves a life. And when his life is threatened by a man who believes in alchemy and untold riches, Luke might not want to help him, but discovering the secrets that are hidden in the Voynich manuscript are something he just can’t resist.

This is a very interesting storyline that has many mystical puzzles for you to question. I know I haven’t been able to find the answers so I will leave it for the Gods to decide if R.J. Scott will bless us with the answers (and if not she’s a big meanie) or if we should just accept that the mystical doesn’t always have an answer. Having Alex’s powers come back gradually was a well thought out plot and to have it woven into an impossible theft was exciting and very interesting. Linking Luke into the mystery was brilliant and adding a figure from Alex’s past was an added bonus. I was left with questions as to why and how some things happened, but some of it was just so incredible that to question it is impossible.

I loved how everything seemed to come together, but I loved it even more that the characters were as clueless as we were about what was happening. Alex and Luke are an exceptional couple and to be honest, at times I felt like Alex had to be a saint because Luke and translating would have sent me insane. There are actions in this book that will shock you, but there are also actions that you can understand (if you had a screw loose yourself that is) and some very interesting detailed descriptions (is R.J. really a cat burglar?). We also have some touching scenes between Luke and Alex.

I have to recommend this to those who love the mystical and the magical, some great action, a touch of angst and a very happy ending in unusual circumstances.

Earth Boys are Easy by Tam Ames

Title: Earth Boys are Easy

Author: Tam Ames

Genre: Gay, Science Fiction, Halloween themed

Length: Short Story (27 pages)

Publisher: Torquere Press (October 24, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: Aran loves Halloween. It’s the one time of year when he gets to reveal his true form without fear of the mythical government agents coming after him. When he meets shy, sexy Booker at a Halloween party, he breaks his rule of never taking someone home when he’s in his alien form. Now he’ll find out if having an alien lover is something Booker can handle, or if Area 51 will become Aran’s new address.

Product link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_107&products_id=3727

Reviewer: Heart

Review:  This short sip was nothing short of a pleasant surprise. While it could be labeled simply as a Halloween story with a twist or just ordinary Sci-Fi, once you start reading you just won’t care.

Aran is an alien who just adores Halloween. It’s the only time of the year when he can show his real appearance, pointy ears, scales and pretty hair, and Aran loves the way he looks. After all, he has particularly exquisite features that stand out even on his planet.

Eight years Earth side and he’s always managed to have a good Halloween night with no one the wiser when it comes to his ‘make up’ skills, except this one night, when Booker charms the pants off him with his shy behavior turned wild once drunk.

It’s a really short story and there is no point in telling you all aspects of the plot, but I will say that it was really sweet and funny and you will definitely want more. Sure, it does lack characterization, especially when it comes to Booker and more of pretty much everything wouldn’t have hurt, but as a short story it’s perfectly adorable and will keep you entertained.

Earth Boys Are Easy was a first for me by this author, but as soon as I clicked on the author profile looking for more, I couldn’t have rated it with any fewer stars.  Recommended.

Heartwood by Emily Carrington

Title: Heartwood

Author: Emily Carrington

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (241 pages)

Publisher: Loose Id (October 16, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Mike Delaney, a sheltered nineteen-year-old, is hired to assist Aidan Kelly, a blind high school senior with a rainbow for every occasion. He isn’t prepared for his attraction to Aidan, or the residual fear caused by being back at the high school.

Aidan Kelly, also nineteen years old, was forced to transfer to the new school after a violent altercation with another student, and recognizes and welcomes his attraction to Mike. Even though he finally persuades Mike to open his closet door, Aidan learns there’s a reason that door was locked closed in the first place.

The man who tormented Mike and made him ashamed of being himself is still very much in his life, and will stop at nothing, including murder, to ensure Mike’s silence. Can Mike draw enough strength from his love for Aidan to end the torment? Can Aidan, who has cause to fear his violent side, overcome his terror of his own abilities long enough to defeat Mike’s tormentor?

Publisher’s Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: male/male sexual practices, violence.

Product link: http://www.loose-id.com/heartwood.html

Reviewer: Heart

Review: Heartwood is a compelling story about school struggles, hatred and abuse. It follows a love story through fights for survival in an unbending world and coming out despite it being so much easier to stay hidden and safe.

Aidan, we get to meet first. Head on into the issues that put him in the other main character, Mike’s, way. He is competent, not afraid to speak his mind and carries the heavy burden of self-imposed responsibility on his shoulders. As a blind nineteen year old, he hasn’t had it easy and transferring to a new school where his differences would stand out even more is not something he’s looking forward to.

Mike is a naïve young man who’s been through a lot, but carries on with a smile and is really excited about getting a job of being Aidan’s aide in school. His demons are of the living kind and haunt him every single day; be it in flesh or through memories.  So meeting Aidan, a young man so different from everyone else, pushes the fears to the side and allows Mike to be himself to the extent he’d never dared to before.

What I liked the most about this book was the complicated back stories of both characters. I loved the fact that Aidan could look after himself, and knew how to fight. Really liked Mike’s stubbornness, even when he was afraid. as well as the fact that there was more to his life than the love he felt for Aidan.

Both were really interesting men and their adaptation journey from guilt ridden and afraid to ready to face their troubles and allow love to come forth was really pleasurable to read about.

Where I just couldn’t get used to the story and where I eventually noticed a pattern, were the conversations. Every single one between the main characters ended without everything being said. Questions were left unanswered and subjects barely touched. It caused a lot of issues to pile up without there ever being an all-encompassing resolution. Maybe it was just me who noticed it, but either way it kept pulling me out of the story, making me want to lock the couple in a room and not let them out until they spent at least twenty-four hours blabbering about their issues. I’m not sure even that long would have been enough.

Certain sex scenes were a bit inappropriate or maybe even far-fetched and I definitely missed a bed in the story. But, the gentles between the characters were really appealing and I’m very happy that I’d gotten the chance to read Heartwood. It is a book to keep in mind.

Love Bites by D. River

Title: Love Bites

Series: A Feral Hearts Tale 01

Author: D. River

Genre: Alternative World, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Length: Novel (265pgs)

Publisher: Lightbane Publications (7th July 2012)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Ryder has been friends with Tucker since they were in the first grade. They grew up together, they joined the Marines together and they moved to the vast metropolis of New York City together. Nothing could tear them apart.

Or so they believed. When they get bitten by a mysterious creature, they find themselves drawn together in a whole new way that is both exciting and terrifying. Neither of them is prepared to face the feelings they now have or what that could mean for their future.

This is the story of their quest for a cure, which takes them through such locales as Little Avalon, the Wild Wood and the haunted ruins of Old Syracuse. Together they must face down dangers and challenges even as they grapple with the life-shift of now being mated werewolves.

Join Ryder and Tucker for a fun, romantic adventure set in an Earth much like our own, but where magic and magical creatures are as much a part of the world as science and technology.

Purchase Link: USA: http://www.amazon.com/Bites-Feral-Hearts-Tales-ebook/dp/B008IMRH4O

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Bites-Feral-Hearts-Tales-ebook/dp/B008IMRH4O

Review: Ryder and Tucker are the best of friends and nothing will ever change that. But, the days and weeks following an attack by a mysterious creature pushes them to the limit. Discovering they are now Lycan (a long dead race), fighting their inner battles with the wolf spirits and the sudden confusion of being attracted to each other is hard to process. But, throw in a series of quests and it just might tear them apart.

This is a great shifter & paranormal novel that delves into imagination and gives us a great mix of paranormal, myths and legends. Ryder is a man who is loyal to a fault, but is far from a push over. He will do what has to be done, but he also has a nurturing side. Tucker is a man who holds himself in tight control, terrified that he will turn into the kind of man his father was, but he is also loyal and protective and would give up his own happiness to make Ryder happy… oh and they are both very straight. The night they are both bitten is the night it all changes for them. With everything that is thrown at them from that moment on, their greatest fear is losing each other.

This is an excellent story that doesn’t just give us an adventure and action, it also gives us the complex process as Ryder and Tucker have to decide just what to do about their curse and also the new developing feelings they have for each other. The story is from Ryder’s perspective so we get all his feelings and confusion, we do get an idea of what Tucker is also deciding because Ryder knows him so well. But, there is still a touch of angst while they process what is going on.

The storyline is brilliant, far from the usually paranormal stories, the background and world building is great, so we get a good grip of what is happening in the paranormal world and Ryder and Tucker’s romance is quite realistic to the setting. I absolutely loved the adventure they found themselves on. Ending with a series of quests from finding a cure, to discovering a lost relic, to helping a haunted town AND Herne the Huntsman, all the while being chased by hunters who want blood and a Dream Speaker who wants war.

I have to recommend this to those who love paranormal, primal shifters, urban fantasy, alternative world, hot primal sex in shifter form, hot sex in human form, a great adventure, a friends to lovers romance and a happy ending.

Gilbert by Bailey Bradford

Title: Gilbert

Series: Leopard’s Spots 05

Author: Bailey Bradford

Genre: Paranormal, Shifters

Length: Novella (143pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (6th August 2012)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: One sexy snow leopard shifter finds his mate and more, now Gilbert Trujillo just has to convince Jihu Warren to trust his instincts and give them a chance to be an unexpected family.

Gilbert Trujillo has watched his two older brothers, Tim and Isaiah, find their mates. He’s not sure he’s ready for such a commitment himself, even if he does kind of envy them at times. His life is about to get a lot more complicated, and if he can survive and protect the ones he loves, Gilbert just might have more than he ever dreamed possible.

Jihu Warren hasn’t known much in life other than that he was to be used to further his species. Amur shifters were bordering on extinction, and a breeding program had been established decades ago. Jihu’s desires were of no consequence. He sees no way out, no hope, until he hears rumors of Bae, a half-brother he’s never met, who escapes from the demands of the lepe. Given hope, Jihu fights for his freedom and in his search for Bae, he runs into a sexy snow leopard shifter named Gilbert Trujillo instead, and Jihu finds out there are some things, and some people, worth risking everything for.

Fate throws Gilbert and Jihu together, with a twist. Jihu’s senses have been altered by the injections given him while in captivity at Chung-Hee’s lepe. He doesn’t know who to trust, and will have to depend on himself rather than using the enhanced senses he normally has.

Together, he and Gilbert, along with a new family Jihu is quickly coming to love, will have to battle the shifters who want Jihu back at almost any cost.

Purchase Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?P_ID=1771

Review: Jihu has been forced into the Amur shifters breeding program.  His grandfather, Chung-Hee, who is the leader of the lepe, made sure of that by chaining and drugging him. But, now he has escaped and needs to find his brother, Bae. Gilbert is hoping to find his mate, but is surprised when his mate appears at his brother’s home with a baby in his arms. Now, he has to convince his mate that he means no harm and will help to protect him from his grandfather.

This is a good novella where we discover the true depths that a power-hungry shifter will go to in his quest to save his species. Jihu has some issues to resolve when he finally escapes from his grandfather’s clutches. He had been forced to have sex with a woman and produce a child. Jihu knew what would happen if he didn’t get away, but there was no way he would leave his son behind. Gilbert is thrilled to find his mate and is delighted to have a son through him. He will do anything in his power to keep them both safe and with the backing of his family sets out to ensure all of Jihu’s family is safe.

This is an enjoyable story that shows us the love that can help a person heal from past wrongs. Jihu has to face what happened to him and with the love of Gilbert begins to heal. Gilbert is the perfect shifter for Jihu and together they make a great couple. The sex between them is hot and spontaneous (as long as they make sure baby is asleep). The continued story of the lepes and the forced breeding program is good, as well as how completely out of control Chung-Hee becomes. I liked how Gilbert’s family came together to help and the support they showed Jihu and I really like how Jihu is lost and despairing when he finally gets to Bae and Isaiah’s home.

I will recommend this to those who love shifters, a touch of angst, hunting for baddies, danger, a sweet baby and a happy ever after.

 

The Mudpie by A. J. Llewellyn & Serena Yates

Title: The Mudpie

Series: Elemental Superpowers 03

Author: A.J. Llewellyn & Serena Yates

Genre: Paranormal, Magic

Length: Novella (157pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (8th October 2012)

Heat: Moderate – Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Mitchell is proud of his new wrestling persona and trading card, but he hadn’t planned on actually facing his wrestling hero, Whip “Mudshark” Jackson, in the ring…

Geeky Mitchell Dykins loves his new job as marketing manager for a wrestling federation’s participants. After creating a huge online campaign for his company’s wrestlers, he befriends the most fearsome warrior of them all, Whip “Mudshark” Jackson. Whip is so thrilled with Mitchell’s work, he demands that the company create a wrestling persona for Mitchell and therefore he’ll get his own trading card. Mitchell is tickled. This is all good, right?

Unfortunately Mitchell soon finds himself transformed into his wrestling persona, “Mudpit Madman”. When he starts waking up covered in mud, Mudshark lying beside him, he begins to worry. The worst of it is when he defeats Mudshark who then puts a contract out on Mudpit.

Whip claims he knows nothing about what his alter ego is doing. He likes Mitchell. But his muddy wrestling character seems to have a mind of his own…can he be telling the truth?

Is Mitchell completely nuts to still like a guy who probably wants him dead?

Reader Advisory: After reading this book you may feel an urge to eat mud pie – and don’t be surprised if you find traces of mud on your floor…

Purchase Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1786

Review: Mitchell is the marketing manager for a wrestling federation. Whip is the superstar wrestler he admires from afar. Designing the new trading cards was fun for Mitchell, but when another wrestler pulls out Whip, insisting that Mitchell fills in the trading card slot as a gimmick. But, strange things begin to happen.

This is a great novella that has amusing sections that complement the more serious and dangerous scenes. Mitchell Dykins fancies Whip ‘Mudshark’ Jackson, but never dreamed he would get close to the man. Now he is sharing a room with him and Mitchell ends up being dragged into a world he never envisaged. Whip is astounded when Mitchell is forced to fight him in the mudpit and is shocked to the core that the man actually beat him. But, more danger lurks as his fighting persona seems to come to life and someone is pulling strings in the background that endangers all the Elementals.

Mitchell is a great character. He loves his family dearly and will do anything he can for them. But, he discovers secrets that have been hidden when he inadvertently causes earthquakes. Whip is a strong character, wanting to jump in feet first when difficulties begin, but knowing he needs the help and support from his friends. Together they make a great couple and the feelings they have for each other support them when they are apart, and both men need all the support they can get.

We have a wonderful cast of characters with many of our favorites from previous books. All of whom fit nicely into supporting roles as they discover who is behind the disappearances, danger and deaths. There will be times that you chuckle inadvertently. Times when you cringe at memories and times when you sigh as Mitchell and Whip fall in love. There will be moments of danger and moments of pure astonishment with you sitting there repeating to yourself ‘the plughole? Escaped down the drain?’

I have to recommend this to those who love magic, mystery, wrestling, hunky men, danger and two hot men, mud wrestling, slipping and sliding against each other grappling and holding and rubbing and… *cough* (damn I think it’s just got really hot in here) so really…what are you waiting for?

Esau by Bailey Bradford

Title: Esau

Series: Leopard’s Spots 06

Author: Bailey Bradford

Genre: Paranormal, Shifter

Length: Novella (146pgs)

Publisher: Total E-Bound (29th October 2012)

Heat: Explicit/Scorching

Heart: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Sometimes what you don’t want is exactly what you need.

Esau Walraven is a loner in a family filled with togetherness happy people. A shifter, it has taken him years to come to terms with that aspect of himself. He used to resent being different, but now he has come to appreciate it, and even embrace it. He’s still not thrilled about being around people, but when his family asks for help, Esau is there to give it.

Ye-sun Warren helped his brother escape from their cruel grandfather. It didn’t matter that Ye-sun had never met that particular brother; it was the right thing to do. Added to that, he has a nephew, a sweet baby boy who shouldn’t be used as a pawn. Ye-sun’s decision to help them costs him, with his grandfather punishing him in cruel ways he thought would kill him. Abandoned and left to die, Ye-sun is an angry, hurting Amur shifter.

When Esau and Ye-sun meet, the sparks fly. Esau tries to reject the mate-bond, but when he gives in, taking the innocent man first as they are leopards, then as men, he swears to himself he will not feel anything but lust for Ye-sun.

But Fate has a funny way of making sure her plans are followed…

Reader Advisory: This book contains mild BDSM-Spanking and is part of a series, so best read in order.

Purchase Link: http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1815

If you are a Total E-Bound VIP and newsletter subscriber you will be eligible to receive this book up to 4 weeks early.

Review: Esau has finally found his mate, but he is filled with dread.  He did something in the past that now haunts him and he doesn’t trust himself any more. Ye-sun was left to die after helping his brother escape, but now after making it out alive he has found his mate who doesn’t seem to want him. Can he change the sexy shifters mind or should he just leave and try to get his life straight? Esau has choices to make and secrets to admit. Can he accept what his mate has to offer or just live in the past with his bitter memories?

This is an interesting story in the aftermath of the bush fire which has primal love and deep doubts. Esau has never wanted to have a mate; his past has bitter secrets and dark actions that leave him unsure about his nature. Ye-sun has hidden his sexuality from himself and his family as he knows he has no choice but to breed. But, when his grandfather goes too far, Ye-sun helps his brother to escape and he nearly signs his own death warrant. Out in the wilds, Ye-sun meets his mate, Esau, and between them they have to overcome Esau’s past so they can go forwards.

Ye-sun and Esau make a great couple. Ye-sun makes Esau understand his actions in a less blood thirsty light and Esau makes Ye-sun realize that his actions were the only thing he could do. There are a lot of angsty feelings and wallowing in the past and the sex is very primal and very rough in places. There is also very rough sex in animal form. Ye-sun and Esau are a couple that are well suited, although Ye-sun doesn’t let Esau push him around and also makes Esau stop wallowing in the past and face the future they can have together.

I recommend this to those who love rough shifters, hot rough sex, primal matings, hidden pasts and a happy ending.

 

Aaron by J. P. Barnaby

Title: Aaron

Author: J.P. Barnaby

Genre:  Contemporary/(Young Adult)

Length:  Novel (238 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 8, 2012)

Heat level: Explicit

Heart rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts 

Blurb: I can’t describe what it’s like to want to scream every minute of every day.

Two years after a terrifying night of pain destroyed his normal teenage existence, Aaron Downing still clings to the hope that one day he will be a fully functional human being. But his life remains a constant string of nightmares, flashbacks, and fear. When, in his very first semester of college, he’s assigned Spencer Thomas as a partner for his programming project, Aaron decides that maybe “normal” is overrated. If he could just learn to control his fear, that could be enough for him to find his footing again.

With his parents’ talk of institutionalizing him—of sacrificing him for the sake of his brothers’ stability—Aaron becomes desperate to find a way to cope with his psychological damage or even fake normalcy. Can his new shrink control his own demons long enough to treat Aaron, or will he only deepen the damage?

Desperate to understand his attraction for Spencer, Aaron holds on to his sanity with both hands as it threatens to spin out of control.

Product link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3264

Reviewer: Heart

Review:  By taking on the Aaron challenge you will most definitely come across beautiful writing, a well thought through story, plenty of angst and characters that will pull at your heart.

Aaron had been assaulted, violated and almost killed when he was sixteen. His best friend died and he bears the scars to forever remember the event. Since then, Aaron the world had known for sixteen years had disappeared, and the new, damaged person was born in his stead. The new Aaron barely functions and each day for him is a challenge. He doesn’t see any hope for the future, after all, it’s been two years and nothing has changed, he still dreams about things he would sooner forget and he still flinches each time someone offers touch in comfort.

Spencer has been deaf his whole life and while he’s happy with who he is, it’s the rest of the world that he has a problem with. Others can’t seem to see past his lack of hearing and what’s left for Spencer is a rather lonely existence.

When the two are paired up in a programming project in college things change and their lives take directions neither of the two had expected.

Just the blurb for this story draws you in all but screaming ‘read me’. Two characters with a difficult life who find each other and make their own happy future. What more can you ask for? I enjoyed the story as well as the way the author presented the characters. I did think they needed a bit more developing and I as a reader should have been pulled more into it. The subject matter is really heavy and it is something to keep in mind before reading, but precisely because of it, I expected more. The story seemed unfinished in some aspects and certain situations played out differently than I expected them to. But my biggest frowning moments happened with personality flips that occurred both with Spencer as well as Aaron’s mother. I can’t say they have grown since the beginning of the story, they just changed, maybe for worse or for the better, but either way I didn’t quite appreciate the change.

Believe it or not, this was my first J.P. Barnaby book and I certainly haven’t made the wrong choice for my first try. I didn’t think the book was too emotional, certainly not something that made me cry and with that in mind I do recommend it. Even to those who are afraid to tackle a difficult subject – you will love the characters even if you have to squint at the rough bits.

Carved in Wood by Sean Michael

Title:  Carved in Wood

Series: Howling at the Moon Series

Author:  Sean Michael

Genre:   Shapeshifter/ Fantasy

Length:  Novella (103 pages)

Publisher:  Amber Allure (October 7th 2012)

Heat Level:  Medium

Heart Rating:  ♥♥2Hearts

Blurb:   Can a rescue turn into love?

In a brutal world where werewolves are hunted and killed, Wood runs a group that smuggles wolves out of the city to safety. But when Wood meets Daniel, nearly dead from the silver bullet in his shoulder and with a story about entire packs being stolen and forced to work in labor camps, Wood begins to question whether or not he’s really helping anyone at all. Is he simply smuggling wolves out of the proverbial frying pan and into the fire?

Meanwhile, as Daniel heals, he and Wood form a bond, coming together in a way neither man ever expected, and bringing up feelings neither man has ever experienced. Will their becoming mates muddy the waters, or make everything perfectly clear?

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

Reviewer:   Any

Review:  More porn than plot.

Daniel escapes a camp holding wolf packs prisoners. Along the way, he loses his brother and is shot. He quickly runs into Wood, a shifter who identifies him for what he is immediately, and who immediately takes it upon himself to help Daniel.

The first few chapters moved quickly and were okay—though, perhaps the pacing could have slowed down a touch more for us to really get a feel for the characters—but very early in the story, Daniel and Wood mate and I felt the story fizzled into porn after that. Almost on every page something was sexual was happening at the cost of the story.

I thought one interesting story development was Daniel’s need to revenge his brother and set free the rest of his pack from the camp he’d been imprisoned in, however, when he and Wood go back to do this, the events are summarized in a few sentences. We don’t see any struggle or feel there are any stakes in what should be the climax. With no tension, this made the story a difficult read to engage in on any other level other than the physical.

If you are in the mood for a simple, sex-filled story that focuses more on the animal side of shifters, this might be for you.

 

Encounter by Lee Brazil

Title:  Encounter

Series:  N/A

Author:  Lee Brazil

Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal

Length: Anthology

Publisher: Self-published (September 26, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:
Encounter: A nervous wannabe actor slips away to steal a smoke at an audition and finds more relaxation than he expected.

Finding Justice
: When Justice figures out his boyfriend considers him nothing more than a piece of ass on the side, he takes matters into his own hands.

Nick: Insecure nurse Nick discovers something about his rock star boyfriend he just can’t forgive.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Encounter-ebook/dp/B009HCWBHM/ref=la_B0049WSOVM_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1351021236&sr=1-6

Reviewer:  Cat

Also includes reviews for two bonus stories   Finding Justice and Scenes; Nick

Review:  Encounter 

Trevor is backstage trying to calm down for an audition for a part he really wants. He sees Kaspar and both are taken by each other. Kaspar says he can help Trevor relax. Both men agree to a one -time thing. Will this be the only time he sees Kaspar?

As usual this is a very sweet fast short story.  One that when you need something fast to  fill a few minutes , you can count on sweet hot and in this case a bit intriguing.

I recommend this to anyone that likes any of Lee Brazil’s stories, Sweet hot sex, and a hint of something out of this world.  If you like short and sweet you can’t go wrong!

You also get a couple of bonuses.

Finding Justice

 Justice is tired of being kept hidden like he is Payton’s dirty little secret. Payton not coming home for their anniversary and saying they don’t have a real relationship to celebrate, Justice leaves. What ensues? Read it and see.

I absolutely loved this story. I am such a sucker for a love that someone will go to any length to find.  Yep I was hooked with this one. Swoon!

Plus you get yet another Bonus

Scenes; Nick

Nick is tired of feeling like he isn’t good enough for Jayden. Nick is just a nurse and Jayden is a singer in a popular band. Finding something in the laundry Nick finds the nerve to finally dump Jayden.

I loved this also. I could see me in Nick. I would have done the same.  Another great, hot story of a love that prevails.

I recommend this book to anyone that loves short sweet love stories with hot sex. You get three for the price of one plus an Excerpt from Lee’s next book…Truth Deeper than Logic

 

Yours Forever by Missy Welsh

Title:  Yours Forever

Series:  None

Author:  Missy Welsh

Genre:   Paranormal and Contemporary

Length:  Novella (39 Pages)

Publisher:  Amber Allure (May 27th, 2012)

Heat Level:  Medium

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   Rick knows his lover Danny has a secret and has been lying to Rick in order to keep it. He’s pretty sure this secret has something to do with seeing another man once a month for three days at a time.

Determined to show his boyfriend that he can be everything Danny needs, Rick hatches a plan that ends up revealing way more than he could’ve imagined.

(Warning: Contains an altercation between the main characters and a group of anti-gay morons.)

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

Reviewer:   John

Review: I was very skeptical when I started this story since I’m not a huge fan of werewolves, but I’m so glad that I did. The story begins with Rick, who believes that Danny is hiding something from him, because every month he disappears for three days. So, in order to prove Danny that he’s the man for him, he plans a hot and steamy date. He “kidnaps” Danny and takes him to a lake. While they’re having hot and stick sex, several anti-gay morons attack them mercilessly. Since Danny was bigger and stronger than Rick, he quickly pounds them to the ground, but something is not right or doesn’t make sense. Rick is badly bruised, but Danny is better and stronger than ever. When Rick demands the truth, he finds out that Danny’s deepest secret. Danny is a werewolf.

I loved Danny and Rick since they were perfect for each other. Danny to me was the bomb. He was sexy, hot and just interesting. I didn’t like the sudden ending. This story was just too short for my taste since I wanted to read more about these two very interesting characters. I recommend this to all those who enjoy paranormal romance between two hot and sexy characters and for those who are looking for something new.

Must Love Cats by J. M. Snyder

Title:  Must Love Cats

Series:  None

Author:  J.M. Snyder

Genre:   Paranormal and Contemporary

Length:  Novella (47 Pages)

Publisher:  JMS Books (April 2012)

Heat Level:  Medium

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   Dale Thomason isn’t much of a cat person. In fact, he doesn’t particularly care for animals of any kind. Or people either, for that matter. A food critic for the local press, he dines out on the company tab without the hassle of going on a date. His sex life is non-existent, particularly when compared to that of his bisexual BFF, Jill.

When a stray orange tomcat brazenly follows Dale home one night, he calls Jill to come rid his apartment of the feline terror. But he can’t seem to keep the cat out of his home, and the next time it comes inside, Jill isn’t there to rescue him, so he lets it stay.

That night Dale has the sexiest, most vivid dream starring the hot new redhead who just moved into the apartment across from his.

In the morning, the cat has mysteriously vanished and Dale is left reeling from the wet dream. Did he imagine the whole thing? Or does his new neighbor harbor a furry secret?

Product Link:  http://www.jms-books.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=494

Reviewer:   John

Review:  What a pleasant surprise this little book was. Dale Thomason is a food critic for the local press. Since he’s very hard to please and has a huge ego, getting some has become a huge predicament for him. Everything changes one day after he finds a stray orange tomcat inside his home which he immediately dislikes. Dale is not an animal lover or a people lover as a matter of fact. But something very mysterious surrounds the small orange cat. After a night of drinking, he lets the little cat inside his home to spend the night since he cannot locate his owner. That night, he has very vivid sexual dream with his new neighbor. Soon, he finds that his neighbor (Scott) and the small orange cat are one in the same.

I loved Dale and Scott. Dale is a very interesting character since he is not likeable or friendly. He is the grumpy type of guy that reveals his funny and friendly side only when you become his close friend. Scott was a pleasant surprise since he shape shifts into a cat. Yes, a cat, not a werewolf or a pale vampire. There are several funny, sexy and interesting scenes throughout the novel that makes it a must read. However, I didn’t like the fact that the story was just too short. I wanted to read more about this short, but extremely interesting novel.

I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read a fresh new story written by one of the best writers in the industry.

Dumb Jock 3: Appearances Matter by Jeff Erno

Title:  Dumb Jock 3: Appearances Matter

Series:  Dumb Jock

Author:  Jeff Erno

Genre:   Young Adult Romance

Length:  Novel (218 Pages)

Publisher:  Amazon Digital Publishing (August 25, 2012)

Heat Level:  Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   Todd Hoffman, age sixteen, doesn’t have an easy life. Not only does he live with his alcoholic mother in a rundown mobile home, but he’s also a bit of a social outcast at school. He doesn’t have the nice clothing, shoes, and car the other students have. He has only one really close friend, Shannon, but even she doesn’t understand him completely. He knows he can never confide in her his deepest secret. He can’t tell anyone, not even his favorite teacher.

But Todd finds a way to express his feelings when he learns about fan fiction. Being a gifted writer, Todd begins to write stories–gay stories–about another boy he’s secretly crushing on. He posts the stories on a fan fiction website.

When the object of Todd’s affection one day notices him and asks him out, Todd feels like he is suddenly living a dream, that his literary fantasy is becoming real. Soon, however, he realizes that reality and fantasy are two different things, and he has to determine if Galen, the high school soccer team captain, is the boy of his dreams or just another dumb jock.

This is book three of the Dumb Jock series, and the story is linked to the previous books by featuring several common characters. Jeff and Brett are present as are Adam and Trevor. Book three is a continuation of the first two installments, but also serves as a standalone read.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/Dumb-Jock-Appearances-Matter-ebook/dp/B009208QCS

Reviewer:   John

Review:  I love a good nerd/jock novel. I find them fresh and interesting even though some people claim that they have been retold a hundred times. But have they? If you go looking for them, you could only come across one or two. So, when Jeff Erno came out with the third installment of the Dumb Jock series, I had to read it.

The story starts with Todd Hoffman. He has had a pretty rough life since his mom is an alcoholic and they basically live in a trailer park. He is an outcast of life who finds comfort in writing gay fan fiction. His life completely changes after he wins an essay contest at school and his secret crush, Galen Caulfield, notices him and asks him. Galen is the local high school soccer team captain and heart robe. Sparks fly and soon, they find themselves madly in love with each other. But, things are not perfect since their relationship is forbidden by several factors. You have to read this story to find out what they are.

I loved the fact that several previous characters of the series are featured and are linked perfectly well. The one think that I didn’t like was the ending. It was just too sudden. I was expecting a few more chapters, but that left me wanting to read part two of this tale. Overall, Dumb Jock 3: Appearances Matter was an amazing read. I highly recommend this novel to everyone who has read the previous book in the series and for those who enjoy a good nerd/jock theme novel.

The Melody Thief by Shira Anthony

Title: The Melody Thief

Series: Blue Notes Series

Author: Shira Anthony

Genre: MM/ Contemporary

Length: Novel

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (August 24 th, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: Cary Redding is a walking contradiction.  On the surface he’s a renowned cellist, sought after by conductors the world over. Underneath, he’s a troubled man flirting with addictions to alcohol and anonymous sex. The reason for the discord? Cary knows he’s a liar, a cheat. He’s the melody thief.

Cary manages his double life just fine until he gets mugged on a deserted Milan street. Things look grim until handsome lawyer Antonio Bianchi steps in and saves his life. When Antonio offers something foreign to Cary—romance—Cary doesn’t know what to do. But then things get even more complicated. For one thing, Antonio has a six-year-old son. For another, Cary has to confess about his alter ego and hope Antonio forgives him.

Just when Cary thinks he’s figured it all out, past and present collide and he is forced to choose between the family he wanted as a boy and the one he has come to love as a man.

Product Link: http://dreamspinnerpress.com/blog/2012/08/24/melody-thief-shira-anthony/

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: This book is quite different from the lot I’ve read. It starts of full power introducing Cary, a very talented, famous cellist who has serious issues underneath the façade he plasters for the stage. When lights go out, he lets his troubled self emerge, using a different identity, becoming a man who cares for nothing other than anonymous sex on the darkest corners of Milan. After one such night he gets mugged on a dark alley ending up with some bruises and a broken wrist. Fear consumes him, but to his rescue comes Antonio, a stunning man, and helps him through the recovery. Antonio seems genuinely interested on Cary, but he makes no move toward him and resists all Cary’s advances. Until Cary comes clean to him about the lies, the fake identity and the way he leads his life.

For a man who has lived all his life staying away from relationships and romance, even more so family, as Cary claims over and over that he hates kids, he finds himself trapped with emotions toward Antonio and his son. The feelings he’s had for himself for 28 years, that he’s and unworthy man, unworthy of love, soon subside and although scared to death he makes the decision to let himself be loved as well as return it.

Up until this point the story is fast and furious one might say. The author is rough and blunt in her description of Cary’s messy life and it suits him well. The intensity is there and when Cary finally couples with Antonio, it is liquid fire. The heat is incredible, yet it nearly stops there. The story continues with their joint life, the efforts to make it work and the lessons Cary has to learn in order to be in a partner and a parent. The inner fight he has to battle between his addiction, his guilt and a past that still burns. The rush slows down and the story goes quite mellow. The appearance of Cary’s (for 28 years dead) father somehow charges the story with a different kind of rush. It is plain that The Melody Thief revolves around Cary’s life and emotions. The intensity rises up a notch when Cary finds himself in a crossroad between his juvenile dreams and his present and future; however that notch is quite small. The events that follow and the way the story ends were by this point quite predictable. I would have loved to see a bit more about Cary’s brother though, since he was mentioned so much, yet we never saw a glimpse of him

As I said this book was quite different, enjoyable nonetheless. A romance with a very realistic approach, and a beautiful introduction at the world of classical music that was not as heavy as I imagined it might be. On the contrary, it was easy to follow and accept. If you’re a romantic this book might string a cord or two. Recommended.

Meredith's Pride by Missy Martine

Title: Meredith’s Pride

Series: Galactic Nuptials #3

Author: Missy Martine

Genre: MMM/Futuristic/Sci-Fi/Shifters

Length: Novella

Publisher: Siren Publishing (October 17th, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Meredith Carter is lonely and just wants to find someone to love. The nice people at Galactic Nuptials assure him that some of their clients prefer male mates.

The leader of the Chaarta pride sent all their cubs into hiding with Delsin and Etu when the war started. Now, they’re all that’s left of their pride. They’re desperate for a mate to care for the five small young ones. When they find the picture of the lovely creature with long brown hair in Galactic Nuptial’s catalog, they know they’ve found their mate.

It’s too bad they didn’t read the small print. What’re they going to do when they find out “Meredith” can be a male’s name too?

Product Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/merediths-pride

Reviewer: Thommie

Review:  Now this book was a very fun and light read. It started well with the Lion-Shifter Alpha mistaking Mer for a woman and ordering him as a mate from Galactic Nuptials. It followed even better when Mer arrives at his destination and the shifter brothers not only get the surprise of their life but are actually trying to keep themselves in check in order not to succumb into their cravings. The harder they try not to really, really mate with Mer, the harder it gets. And to make their lives even more miserable, their adversary from their home planet kidnaps Mer and holds him hostage. It makes for a very funny scene when Delsin finds out that no matter how much he intended to only use Mer, he’s fallen deeply for him and both brothers go berserk on their way to get back their mate. Ok, I admit it; personally I’d love it if there was a bit more blood and gore. Yeah, call me sick, but c’mon, lion-shifters and a war between two tribes? There was not enough “roaring” there for my likening. And I’m going admit another thing. The whole 5 people tribe against a (undefined number) larger one and ending up winners? So very nonrealistic. But hey, it didn’t do much to undermine the book, since the funny and hilarious factor of the story was constant. I had a real laugh with this one and the end of it had more giggling adding to the pile.

And did I forget to mention the great ménage here? Oh my God!!! Yeah, I’m kinky as Hell, but this triangle was very, very good. It could be much better of course, but nevertheless I enjoyed it immensely. The two brothers worked well with Mer and their sexual interlude was hot. I must say that Mer had quite an endurance for such a small, little guy…

And I know, I am being a bit vague and all but I so don’t want to give out spoilers. I have to give due credit though to the author for her remarkable sense of humor.

A must read for the fans of the genre I totally recommend it. 😉

A Grimoire for the Baron by Augusta Li & Eon De Beaumont

Title: A Grimoire for the Baron

Series: Steamcraft and Sorcery 02

Author: Augusta Li & Eon De Beaumont

Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy, M/M/M

Length: Super Novel (354pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (12th October 2012)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Former archivist Reg Whitney, expert thief Querry Knotte, and the clockwork boy known as Frolic are fugitives from Halcyon living on a small island. While Reg is content to lead a safe and settled life, there is trouble in paradise: Querry is bored, and Frolic can’t help but ponder his own existence.

When Querry and Frolic get caught breaking into Baron Starling’s villa, all three men are bamboozled into accompanying the baron on a quest for arcane knowledge. But their jungle destination holds more danger than anyone on the expedition expects.

Reg knows their crew is made up of criminals—the kind who can’t be trusted—which puts a strain on the trio. He’s certain the baron and the mercenary Jean-Andre are hiding something that puts them all in danger. Querry and the baron grow close, leaving Reg and Frolic feeling alienated. Frolic’s friendship with a fey servant just strains the trio’s dynamic further. Even if Reg, Querry, and Frolic survive the quest, their relationship will never be the same.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3283&cPath=508

Review: This story is part of a series and I recommend they are read in order. Reg, Querry and Frolic are settled in a port town in Thalacea, but Querry still needs the excitement of using his skills. Unfortunately, his confidence in his skills leads himself and Frolic into a trap. Reg, Querry and Frolic end up on a journey with Baron Starling which has a mysterious destination and a dangerous path, never knowing just who to trust and the strain it puts on their relationship.

Querry, Querry, Querry *shakes head* oh what a life you lead, your arrogance really dropped you in it this time. Reg is happy with his life after having to flee Halcyon with Querry and Frolic, but he finds that Querry needs the excitement of using his skills and Frolic wants to join in the fun. Now Querry and Frolic are trapped in a magical contract after being caught, and Reg swears to join them on their quest, it is a journey that will test their faith and love and push them to the end of their endurance.

This is an excellent new adventure for our favorite Steampunk characters; Querry, Reg and Frolic are still in love but Querry is restless (his arrogance knows no bounds), Reg is content (a slight stick in the mud) and Frolic is more confused than ever (poor innocent Frolic). If you haven’t read Boots for the Gentleman then I recommend you do, so you can get the full grasp of just what Frolic is and so you will understand the references of what happened to him. In this story we have a fantastic adventure fraught with danger and conflict; we also see Jean-Andre and his sneaky ways again and meet a host of new and interesting characters.

I have to admit to loving this new adventure, the myriad of descriptions which take you into the jungles alongside them, the incredible descriptions of the mechanical wonders and an emotional rollercoaster as we live their fears, worries and dreams is just wonderful. This book is filled with wonders that pull you along, it makes you frustrated at the characters as you recognize their flaws which they are blind to, and it makes you wish you were on the journey with them as they face uncertainty and the unknown, with creatures that will make your skin crawl and allies that are also foes.

I am recommending this to those who love Steampunk and Fantasy; a trio of wonderful, flawed, perfect men; some incredibly hot sex, confusion, danger, and an ending that has you needing more.

 

 

Catching A Bit of Irish by Charlie Richards

Title:  Catching A Bit of Irish

Series: Wolves of Stone Ridge #13

Author: Charlie Richards

Genre:  M/M Shifter romance

Length:   Novella (113 pages)

Publisher:  eXstasy (October 1st, 2012)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts ~ Liked it

Blurb: Out of the Cage: A bit of Irish magic isn’t always a good thing!

Frederick Reb Drunger is accompanying his alpha and the alpha’s mate on vacation. He’s one of the wolves charged with protecting them while they all enjoy the sights of Ireland. He never expects to discover his mate is a human friend of the local Irish pack. That should make him easy to claim, since Daithi Murphy knows all about shifters. Except Daithi already has a boyfriend, Evan, who’s extremely possessive and not at all happy when Reb wants to get to know his mate. When an Irish goblin targets Reb, can he find the culprit behind the attacks and convince Daithi it’s worth uprooting his life and moving to Colorado with him?

Product Link: http://www.extasybooks.com/index.php?route=product%2Fsearch&keyword=catching+a+bit+of+irish

Reviewer:  Showme

Review: This was the first book of the series I’ve ever read. Yes, I know it’s the thirteenth book but I like sexy tattooed shifters. I think I may have missed some of the back story that endeared me to the packs but followed along fine.  So you could read this as a standalone.

Reb is on bodyguard duty in Ireland at a pack party when Daithe catches his eye. He’s obviously with someone else, but doesn’t look happy. Reb is feeling an attraction and need to claim he’s never felt before. The sexy human with another man is his mate.

Daithe has stayed with his boyfriend for way too long. He knows he’s just passing the time but he’s comfortable and his family doesn’t accept him so he stays with him. Until at a pack party one night, a sexy American shifter claims Daithe is his mate. He feels the strong attraction to the man, but he’s sworn off shifters. Daithe can’t deny the pull between the two of them and decides to get to know Reb. Problem is, something is out to get Reb before they can see where those feelings take them.

I enjoyed this book. It was short and sweet. The bad guy was obvious, but didn’t take away from the romance. Not a ton of world building but I guess that’s not really needed with a series this long. I like the other supernatural beings thrown in with the shifters and the set up for the next couple. I’m not always a fan of the insta-love mate thing, but the guys did try to get to know each other. I honestly don’t know that I’ll seek out more books in this series, but I did find another book by the author to try.

Greeks Invented Love 1: Your Biggest FAN by Missy Welsh

Title:  Greeks Invented Love 1: Your Biggest FAN

Series: Greeks Invented Love

Author:   Missy Welsh

Genre:   LGBT, Contemporary

Length:  Novel (226 KB, 112 pages)

Publisher:  Loose Id LLC (September 17, 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   Truman Durant has two painful secrets. One keeps him in the closet and the other hangs inside his closet. Letting either out seems like the equivalent of suicide to him. He didn’t know just how badly he needed Stasi Manolis until he found himself in the pushy Greek’s sights. Would giving up his secrets and maybe falling in love really be so bad?

Product Link:  http://www.loose-id.com/greeks-invented-love-1-your-biggest-fan.html#product_tabs_description

Reviewer:   Artemis

Review:  In this book, Truman is struggling.  He can accept the fact that he is gay, but the need to occasionally dress up in girl’s clothes is harder to accept.  After a very emotionally scarring incident in his last relationship, he is perfectly happy keeping his secrets very carefully hidden in the closet.  Stasi doesn’t have a whole heck of a lot of experience with being out and proud, but he came out of the closet and is doing the best he can.  He has a horrible crush on Truman, but figures the very heterosexual seeming baseball player doesn’t bat for his team.  When he catches Truman watching him in the library he starts to hope that maybe this could turn into something.  When he follows Truman out-of-town and discovers his penchant for garters and lace, Truman is horrified and terrified that his secrets will all be exposed.  While Stasi is a little bit shocked he is also a whole lot turned on and Truman starts to think that maybe he can let the secrets out of the closet.  The path isn’t particularly smooth, but they are determined to forge ahead together.

Let me just say that I read this book in one sitting on a very lazy Saturday morning and could not put it down.  I also found myself grinning stupidly half way through the book because Truman was so darn sweet and Stasi was just so perfect for him.  These characters were incredibly well written.  I could feel Truman’s pain and insecurity, his fear of someone finding out his secrets, and how much he hated the need he felt for cross dressing.  When Stasi discovered his secret he was honest with Truman…while he had never had a thing for guys in lace he was incredibly interested and excited about seeing this side of Truman.  He was caring and protective and the bond between the two was intense.  I think the author did a good job of making this a realistic story…there were misunderstandings and awkward moments during sex and all of the things that real relationships have to go through.  I am glad they found their happily ever after and I would love to see these characters come back in another book.  I would love to see this relationship mature and have these characters be so sweet, down to earth, and passionate 15 years from now!