The Christmas Throwaway by R.J. Scott

9615767Title: Christmas Throwaway

Series: N/A

Author: R.J. Scott

Genre: m/m, holidays

Length: Novella

Publisher: Love Lane Books (November 24th, 2012) (first published December 1st, 2012)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb: Christmas is a time for giving – what do you do when no one gives a damn?

For Zachary Weston Christmas means sleeping on a churchyard bench in the freezing snow with nothing better in his future. Thrown out of his home for being gay, he is left without money or, it seems, anywhere to go.

Until a stranger shows him that some people do give a lot more than a damn.

Ben Hamilton is a rookie cop in his small home town. He finds a young throwaway, fresh from the city, sleeping on a bench in the churchyard on a snowy Christmas Eve. Can he be the one to give Zachary his own Christmas miracle?

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Christmas-Throwaway-ebook/dp/B004EYUES6

Reviewer: Thommie

Review: I think this is one of the best Christmas stories I’ve read. Everything about this book screams PERFECT and it really made my day even if the start of the story was horribly sad.

R.J. Scott introduces us with a unique way to Zach. A 17-year-old boy who is found sleeping and nearly frozen to death by Ben on a bench on Christmas Eve. Zach’s story is gruesome. He has lived a nightmare of a life at the hands of an abusive, homophobic father and a weak, fading to the background with no voice at all mother. Zach’s entire life has been planned by his father, an ex-special forces sergeant, whose idea of raising a child was beating his wants and beliefs into his son. This got worse when he found out that Zach was gay; taking him out from school and literally forcing him to home imprisonment. However, two-week short of being 18 years old Zach stands up to his father and declares that he is not only not going to enlist in the army, but that he wishes to live his life the way he wants to. That earns him a sound beating (again) and he gets thrown out of the house, in the middle of the winter, with nothing more than the clothes he has on.

I must admit this whole story broke my heart because, even if this one is fiction, there are children out there being thrown out of their family for being who they are. It’s sad, it’s horrible and it’s a fact. I loved the way the author addresses this issue. I loved the way she writes about it without shying away and facing it as it is. I loved the way her characters reacted. She clearly has done her research on behavior patterns and psychological damage.  It was all written with perfect clarity and elegance at the same time.

And while all Zach’s life is the horrible part of the story, this being the Christmas book that it is it would be naïve of us not to expect a miracle. How lovely that the miracle came in the form of Ben, the cop that finds Zach nearly frozen.  And in an impulse, takes Zach home with him, offering him a meal and a bed for Christmas. And while Ben is feeling very good about his deed, thinking that’s why he became a cop for, he, his mother and his entire family fall for the innocent, obviously abused child and try their outmost to help him.

And again, while usually this kind of intervention is written somehow cheesy and sappy, I did not find any such treats here. It was excellent; I loved how it all played. I loved all the characters involved, and most of all I loved the Zach’s and Ben’s chemistry from the beginning till the end. They were brilliant and the time frame put for their “getting to know each other” was the best touch.

I must say that for me this book had it all a meaning, a purpose, awesome plot, fantastic characters, gripping even and all down to earth lovemaking, a fact that made it even hotter. For me this is a must read book and I’m definitely going to re-read it next Christmas and the next and the next and…. Yeah! Totally worth it.

 

A Very Holland Christmas by Toni Griffin

A Very Holland Christmas400x600Title: A Very Holland Christmas

Series: Holland Brothers 05

Author: Toni Griffin

Genre: Shifters, Christmas

Length: Short (60pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (21st December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Christmas is a time for family and friends. Catch up with the Holland Brothers and their mates as they race to get everything ready for their second Christmas together.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1340

Or the complete LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1354

Review: It’s Christmas for the Holland family; Marcus and Brian and their twins Sammy and Dylan, Alex and Jason, Simon and Zach and Hayley, Patrick and Jake and Charlie and finally Maryanne and Joe. We catch up as they prepare for their second Christmas with mates and children and we see as Jason comes to a decision.

This is a wonderful catch up of the Hollands and their mates. Seeing the everyday preparations and the interaction between the mates and couples. This really is just a straightforward catch up for the Hollands and their mates. We see each couple, briefly and interacting together with their children and other family members. We see the love and passion that each couple still has and the love that they have for their children. We see how they have recovered from their pasts and how any lingering effects are finally being overcome.

I have to recommend this to those who love shifters, cute kids, happy families, hot sex, overcoming the past and a very happy Christmas for all the Holland’s.

 

Naked Tails by Eden Winters

nakedtails_final largeTitle: Naked Tails

Author: Eden Winters

Genre: Paranormal, Shifter

Length: Novel (234pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (17th December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Seth McDaniel wasn’t raised among a shifter passel and has no idea what it’s like to turn furry once a month. An orphan, torn from his father’s family at an early age, he scarcely remembers Great-aunt Irene. Now her passing brings him back to Possum Kingdom, Georgia, to take up a legacy he doesn’t understand and reconnect with a friend he’s never forgotten.

As Irene’s second-in-command, Dustin Livingston has two choices: assume control of the passel or select another replacement. Unfortunately, the other candidates are either heartless or clueless. Dustin’s best hope to dodge the responsibility is to deliver a crash course in leadership to his childhood pal Seth, a man he hasn’t seen in twenty years. However, while Dustin’s mind is set on his task, his heart is set on his old friend.

Seth’s quest for answers yields more questions instead. What’s with the tiny gray hairs littering his aunt’s house? Why do the townsfolk call each other “Jack” and “Jill”? Do Dustin’s attentions come with ulterior motives? And why is Seth suddenly craving crickets?

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3463

Review: Seth is returning to his childhood home after twenty years. His Great-auntie has just passed away and left him everything… including her secrets. Seth discovers his childhood friend, Dusty, is still around Possum Kingdom and getting reacquainted is great, but Seth doesn’t plan on sticking around. But, Dustin starts to act odd and then Seth is bitten by a possum and Seth discovers everything changes. Dustin is acting ‘Jack’ of the passel and when Seth comes back, Dustin discovers that Seth doesn’t know anything about shifters, and Dustin decides it’s best to keep him in the dark and enjoy what time he has with Seth before he returns to Chicago. But, that changes when Seth is bitten and his dormant virus becomes active. Can Dustin get Seth ready in time for the full moon and the challenges that may face him or will Seth disappear back to Chicago?

This is a great shifter story that is quite refreshing and pretty unique. Seth has grown up with a grandmother who was quite strict and Seth has gotten used to doing what other people want to keep the peace. It hasn’t worked out to well, especially in his love life. Returning to the town where he spent the first eight years of his life brings about a change in his life he could never have imagined. Dustin is a great character who will do anything for anyone within reason. Taking on the mantel of ‘the Jack’ when ‘the Jill’ Irene passes away is a strain, but he wants what’s best for the passel, and when Seth turns up he can’t help but fall for the man.

These are great characters that are in a great story. Seth, Dustin and Monica along with the triplets are incredible in this story, and they make you laugh. This isn’t the usual shifter type story where there’s danger and nefarious evil plans… hmmm, well, actually there is in a way, but not in the usual sense that we see in shifter stories. Dustin and Seth’s relationship is really good, reconnecting after so many years and rediscovering the friendship between them while acknowledging the new attraction between them.  But, with Seth being cautious, after he discovers the full truth and ensuring that Dustin isn’t just using him.

I really enjoyed this story, as it was very relaxed without too much angst and danger, and it had a political angle for the possums… I found Seth’s campaigning entertaining, but I must admit that the politics’ interfered greatly with the romance side of the story. I loved the scientific explanation of shifters and the more realistic plans that they have in place for keeping the shifter world secret, and I will be honest, the thought that went into all the details was impressive.

So, I will recommend this to those who love a different kind of shifter, a possum political storm brewing, two men reconnecting after many years apart, a touch of unexpected danger, some hot loving and a very happy ending… oh and don’t forget the crickets!

 

 

Christmas Magic by Pelaam

PelaamTitle: Christmas Magic

Author: Pelaam

Genre: Contemporary Fantasy, Christmas

Length: Short (64pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (15th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Mitchell is unhappy with his relationship with John and his life in general. Then he meets his store’s latest Christmas elf, who is not exactly what he seems. Linwood fights to protect Mitchell but their differences may make forever impossible.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1324

Or buy the entire LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1354

Review: Mitchell has let life go by, falling into a rut. It isn’t until he meets Linwood, a new Christmas elf at his store, who has Mitchell beginning to examine his life and what he truly wants. But, even when he begins to find happiness, it doesn’t go as planned when he discovers Linwood’s secret.

This is a very cute Christmas fantasy where a man realizes just where his happiness lies. Mitchell has been letting his boyfriend, John, walk all over him. He fell into a rut and it isn’t until he meets Linwood that he really looks at everything he gave up to please John.  He also begins realizing that he gets nothing in return from John. Linwood has a job to do, but it doesn’t involve falling in love with his charge. But, things come to a head when he has to protect Mitchell and they both have to face the consequences.

I really enjoyed this quite light-hearted story of re-examining one’s life and taking steps to be in control of it again. Mitchell is a man who seems to have been worn down by his boyfriend; so that he no longer does the things he enjoys or meets with the friends he likes. He supports John for the most part and John just takes advantage. When Mitchell meets Linwood it shakes him out of his insulated world and he begins to reclaim his life.

I loved the twist that came when Linwood had to defend Mitchell. The way that the story leads you on, so you know that something special will happen. you just don’t know what it will be or when. Mitchell and Linwood are beautiful together and the story of them is touching. the way that they stand up for their love and want to be together is wonderful.

I will recommend this to those who love Christmas love, finding the true meaning of happiness and a very happy ending.

The Christmas Mix-Up by N. Phillips

16091125Title: The Christmas Mix-up

Series: The Emo and the Jock 02

Author: N. Phillips

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Short (35pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (14th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Everyone loves opening presents at Christmas. Especially when they know they’re getting what they want. But what do you do when you open a present and find that it could change your life for better or worse?

Evan and Cole have been together and helplessly in love for three years and have spent the last couple Christmases in blissful joy. But when Evan finds a Christmas present in the closet and decides to open it unbeknownst to Cole, things start to get really confusing. Evan thinks what’s in the box is just a funny prank but Cole seems to think it’s much more. Cole suddenly rushes out of the house, leaving Evan scratching his head. Will this turn out to be the best Christmas of their lives? Or will it be one of the worst?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1323

Or purchase the entire LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1354

Review: Evan and Cole are celebrating Christmas in relationship bliss. Everything is going great, until Evan finds a hidden present and opens it. When Evan admits what he has done and admitting he will never wear the present, Cole storms from the house and Evan is left in confusion as to what he has done. Can Evan and Cole clear up the mistake or will Kyle be able to help to smooth the way to the happiest Christmas of all?

We re-join Evan and Cole as they celebrate Christmas together in their new house and we see how a simple mix-up causes pain and then joy. This is a very sweet story with angst and heartache unwittingly caused, followed by pure joy and happiness as the truth come out. Evan and Cole are wonderful characters, who love each other completely. But, when a mix-up happens communication goes down the drain, until Kyle intervenes and Cole realizes his mistake.

This story is fun, light-hearted and angsty with some incredibly hot making up and loving. Crossed wires and forgotten gifts causes problems for our two favorite characters, but it isn’t long before they realize the mistake and make up for it in more ways than one. I really enjoyed this story and was very happy that the author got the timing just right and didn’t let the storyline drag on for too long. Just leaving us in confusion for long enough that we can guess what might have happen and why Cole reacted the way he did. This is a perfect Christmas romance with misunderstandings, but lots of happiness and joy and some smoking hot sex.

I will recommend this to those who love Christmas joy, a touch of angst, a misunderstanding, hot sex, lots of love and a very, very happy Christmas for an emo and a jock.

Joys R Us by Kim Fielding

JoysRUs400x600Title: Joys R Us

Author: Kim Fielding

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Short (49pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (13th December 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Reece considers holiday events wasteful. But when he’s coerced into standing in line for this year’s must-have toy, he gets trampled by the crowd. Store manager Angel rescues him–but can Angel also show Reece the joy of Christmas?

Reece is a practical, orderly man, a financial analyst who considers most holiday events wasteful. But his sister coerces him into standing in line overnight for this year’s must-have toy. Supplies of Daredevil Danny prove smaller than expected, and Reece gets trampled in the resulting stampede. Toy store manager Angel tends to Reece’s wounds. When Angel discovers Reece’s cynical attitude, he invites Reece to spend Christmas Eve with him. Over the course of the day, Angel shows Reece what Christmas means to him. With Angel’s guidance, maybe Reece can finally understand the joy of the holiday–and maybe even find love as well.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1322

Review: Reece is stuck in line waiting for a store to open so he can buy his nephew the much longed for Daredevil Danny toy. Unfortunately, when the store opens and stock is low, Reece is hurt in the stampede. Angel, the assistant manager comes to Reece’s rescue, but the much long for toy is long gone. Angel invites Reece for a day out when he discovers how cynical he is. Can Angel get Reece to see the true joy in Christmas?

Sometimes life blinds you to what is right in front of you. The simple joy in the small things. Reece is a practical man. His idea of a perfect gift for a child is cash towards his college fund. When his sister calls in a favor, he finds himself sat outside a store freezing cold waiting to buy an action figure in the middle of the night. But, things don’t go as he expected and he ends up injured and being taken care of by a gorgeous man. Angel firmly believes in spreading the joy, discovering that Reece doesn’t seem to have any has Angel inviting him for a day out so Reece gets a dose of the real joy of giving.

This is quite a good story about discovering the joy of Christmas that was lost. Reece is a very practical, cynical man, while Angel looks for the joy in everything. Putting these two together makes for a great story, but although we get a feel for both characters and what their relationship might be like this story is mainly about the joy of Christmas, so any relationship is just faint tendril of hope in the background. We do get to see the very beginning as they share a brief kiss or two and they talk together a lot, but this is definitely a story of Christmas joy and hope, with a hint of happiness and love in the future.

I will recommend this to those who want a story of Christmas joy, with some faint stirrings of relationship hope, with two great characters and the beginning of a new relationship.

 

 

Someone Like You by L. M. Brown

SomeonelikeyouTitle: Someone Like You

Author: L.M. Brown

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Novella (89pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (3rd December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Todd Hunter knows Deacon Jones is the one for him, and despite pressure from his family he’s determined they’ll spend the Christmas holidays together. Can he convince Deacon that their different backgrounds shouldn’t keep them apart?

When Todd Hunter went to university he left behind his boyfriend, Deacon Jones. Todd knows Deacon is the one he wants to spend the rest of his life with, but for some reason Deacon has stopped returning his calls and is ignoring all his letters.

Now Todd is home for the holidays, and he wants to spend them with Deacon. It might not be so easy though. Neither Todd’s family nor Deacon’s are happy about their relationship and while Todd knows if they stand together they can make it work, convincing Deacon may be the greatest challenge of all.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1312

Or purchase the entire LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/new-release-c-1/products_id/1354/

Review: When Todd went to University he left behind his boyfriend of three years, Deacon, and he hasn’t heard from him since, with Deacon not returning his calls or answering his letters. With Christmas coming, Todd is determined to discover what is going on. Deacon only wants what is best for Todd and with Todd’s and his own family against them, Deacon thinks Todd is better off without him. But, when Todd returns home for the holidays, Deacon finds it hard to stick to his resolve, especially when Todd is determined to love him no matter what.

This is a wonderful story of high school sweethearts being pressured to spilt up, but with one of them determined to stay with the man he loves. Deacon has to start building a new life for himself, when his father throws him out for being gay. Having his boyfriend’s father putting pressure on him to keep away from his son doesn’t help and he begins to think he isn’t good enough for Todd. Todd has been hurt that his boyfriend seems to have cut all contact with him. Now, he is home for Christmas he will get to the bottom of it and get his man back. Together they have to face their parents and try to convince them that Deacon isn’t going to ruin Todd’s life and that their love will carry them through.

Someone like you is a lovely story of disapproving parents who try to do what is best for their son, Todd, for all the wrong reasons. While Deacon comes from the wrong side of the tracks, he is a sweet and loving man, who just wants the best for the man he loves. Todd knows what he wants out of life, but to him the most important one is Deacon, and as long as he has his love everything else is just a bonus. These are two young men who have to fight for their love, while one would rather suffer than cause future upset, the other wants love more than anything else.

I really enjoyed this story of a sweet love that battles against parental protection. With two young men both striving for the right thing. One who will face his parents down and refuse to find a man from the right social setting and the other only wanting to do the right thing for the man he loves. Both Todd and Deacon are great characters and make a brilliant couple; Deacon with his slightly skewered view of himself and Todd with his belief in their love. The storyline was good and I liked the surprise of Deacon’s father finally stepping up and acting like a father. Todd’s father disappointed me with his snobbish attitude, but it really added to the story. I have to admit to loving Billy and am just really happy that he was there for Deacon.

I will recommend this to those who love high school sweethearts, fighting for love, scheming fathers, some hot loving and a very happy ending.

 

Homeless at Christmas by Scarlet Blackwell

Homeless-At-Christmas_thumbTitle: Homeless at Christmas

Author: Scarlet Blackwell

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Short (38pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (9th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Lonely office worker Neil wanders around Manchester in the last-minute Christmas rush when he spots Kai soliciting for money. Neil wants company, Kai wants money, both love the sex–can they find common ground?

Lonely office worker Neil finishes at work for three days. Wandering around Manchester in the last-minute Christmas crush, he spots Kai soliciting for money. After buying him a sandwich, he invites Kai home looking for company.

Kai tells him he’s doing it for the money but the sex is great and suddenly he is in no rush to leave. Do they have a future?

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1318

Review: Neil is all alone at Christmas. Walking home from work he decides to pop into a shop for a couple of items and end up buying a beggar some food.  He invites the beggar home just so he will have some company. Kai will do what he has to, to survive living on the streets, taking the offer of a roof over his head for the night. Both men alleviate a need in the other, but will it last longer than Christmas?

Scarlet Blackwell lays it out in black and white the lengths that some will go to just to not be alone or to have a roof over their heads just for one night. Neil is just so alone that he asks a complete stranger who lives on the street to come home with him. Kai, the young beggar, mistakes his offer and offers him sex, but between the two of them they just might discover a happy Christmas.

This story really is too short to get to know either character. all we really discover is that they are both alone and that they both enjoy hot sex with each other. It would have been nice to discover why they were in the situations that they found themselves in, but for a short story they made the most of it. The sex between them is really hot and there is some kinky spanking, but nothing too heavy. for all that though there was a deeper connection that drew them together. The descriptions of Manchester were well written and brought the area to life, although fingers crossed for that snow.

I will recommend this to those who want a short sharp happy ending, with hot sex and realistic settings but with that touch of unreality that makes it work.

Chocolate Vanilla Swirl by Vicktor Alexander

3c746851c087b871712f3f4edd60bab7.image.200x300Title: Chocolate Vanilla Swirl

Series: Flip the Coin 01

Author: Vicktor Alexander

Genre: Contemporary, Interracial, Christmas

Length: Novella (82pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (25th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Braxton Brown and Hamilton Drake have loved each other for years, but neither knew how the other felt. Christmas in Lakeland, Florida reveals their feelings, but their newfound relationship may not survive interference from Braxton’s disapproving family.

Braxton Brown has loved Hamilton Drake for as long as he can remember. Believing Hamilton to be straight kept Braxton from acting on his feelings during high school. His uber-religious family doesn’t help, either. Returning home for Christmas with his twin daughters in tow, Braxton runs into Hamilton–literally–and discovers Hamilton has feelings for him, too. But Christmas may not be the best time to start a relationship, especially with Braxton’s granny on her death-bed and his family’s vocal disapproval getting in the way.

CONTENT ADVISORY: This title contains a HFN ending.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1344

Review: Braxton is returning to his family home to see his great-grandmother with his twin daughters. He is dreading the rest of his immediate family though, because of their die-hard religious views. Braxton bumps into Hamilton, his high school crush, as soon as he gets into town and soon discovers he wasn’t the only one with a crush. Hamilton has waited years for Braxton and he feels the time is now right to approach the man he has always wanted. But, starting a relationship with disapproving parents looking on isn’t easy.

This is a cute and hot Christmas story of two men meeting after years of secret wanting. Braxton left his family behind after he came out. The only ones he keeps in touch with are his older sister, cousins and great-grandmother. Now, his great-grandmother is ill and frail and he is taking his daughters to see her for Christmas. Hamilton was told what would happen if he approach Braxton, before Braxton had left home, so he waited for the right time to approach him. Finding out that Braxton has children doesn’t put him off in the least and with the help of Braxton’s cousin the truth spills out and now all he has to do is hope Braxton feels the same.

This is a great beginning to Braxton and Hamilton’s story and as it has a happy for now ending I am hoping that we will be visiting these characters again. Both Braxton and Hamilton are wonderful characters who have always wanted the other man. They both have lingering feelings for the other and although those feeling intensify; both men know that they no longer truly know the other. I think it was brilliant that the men thought about things before jumping in with two feet. The sex between them was really hot and very descriptive; it will definitely get your pulse racing.

I will recommend this to those who love hot men, an understanding great-grandmother, standing up for what you want in the face of bigots, hot sex and the beginning of something special.

 

 

Lord of Misrule by Alix Bekins

lordofmisrule-lgTitle: Lord of Misrule

Series:  Dreamspinner Press 2012 Advent Calendar ~ “Evergreen”

Author:  Alix Bekins

Genre:  Holiday/ contemporary

Length: Nap-sized dreams/ Short story

Publisher Dreamspinner Press (December 1, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb:   The Yule festival of Twelfth Night is a time when servants are the masters and vice versa, and tension and humor fill the air. Dan and his partner, Taj, have busy lives even without their duties as members of the Society for Creative Anachronism. When Taj is selected to coordinate the holiday activities and assigned the title Lord of Misrule, it encroaches on their time as a couple—until they negotiate their way to a happy holiday.

Product Link:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3383

Reviewer:  Cat

Review:  Taj and Dan are members of the Society of Creative Anachronism. They do medieval reenactments. It keeps them very busy along with their hectic work schedules. Twelfth Night is a time when servants are the masters and vice versa. They each have a surprise for the other planned for this night.

I’m going to have to say that this one lost me. It started out with a battle scene like its medieval and the two men are going at it like bunnies all the time. I am sure back then they wouldn’t be so open. Then it all of a sudden changes names and is present time. Then you find out it’s a society thing they do together. I just stayed lost and a bit confused. I had to look up lots of words (thank goodness for kindle fires dictionary). I had to reread a lot to see if I missed something’s. However, the story between Dan and Taj is very sweet and hot. I think it would have been a great story without the other part or if there was a bit more explanation or a smoother transition between the two stories.  All in all I liked the story.

I recommend this to anyone that likes, Lords and Ladies, Medieval reenactments, and hot mansex.

 

Luke's Present by Sue Brown

Luke's Present 400x600Title: Luke’s Present

Series: Morning Report 3.5

Author: Sue Brown

Genre: M/M, Holiday

Length: Novelette (62 pg)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 19th, 2012)

Reviewer: Thommie

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: Lost Cow Ranch foreman Simon Bryan is worried about Luke, his boss and possessive partner of twelve years. Reeling from the flood that took his horse, Luke has postponed surgery on his knee, and his nightmares have been escalating. Worse, he is pulling away from Simon emotionally. Desperate to help his lover cope, Simon plans a special Christmas gift, but it is Luke’s present that changes their relationship forever.

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3460

Review: The fourth book in the Morning Report series finds Luke and Simon, partners for a decade, in a very bad emotional state. Luke is taking his injury and death of his beloved horse Lulu very badly. His fears and nightmares are holding him back and that is taking a toll not only at his health, but at his relationship as well. He’s slowly withdrawing from everyone and Simon is trying every trick he knows to bring the man he loves back from his inner darkness. With the approaching Christmas and the love and support of their friends and family Simon achieves to crack through the armor Luke has built around his mind and one step at the time get him through the healing process. But, love goes both ways and Luke shows his with a most unexpected act. After all when there is love you can survive it all and the pair recognizes how blessed they’ve been to be surrounded by that wonderful feeling.

This story is both sweet and hot. There are cowboys, there are horses, there is the classic Texan Momma (loved her), there are troubles and there is love. All very important components for a fine story. I did find it a bit rushed though, the pace felt like a sprint and there was no time left to absorb the bittersweet scenes or the hot sexual ones. Unfortunately I did not connect with the characters and failed to “feel” what they were feeling. It’s one of the rare times where I wish a story was a bit more developed and detailed on the sensory part.

Nevertheless I liked it and if you’ve followed the series you should definitely read this and catch up with Simon and Luke.

Cancel Christmas by Cameron Lawton

200x300cancel_christmas_final121218_0542Title: Cancel Christmas

Series: Yours to Command 02

Author: Cameron Lawton

Genre: Contemporary, Military Police, Christmas

Length: Novella (125pgs)

Publisher: MLR Press (15th December 2012)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3 ½ – 4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: The Military Police boys are back and this time it’s murder.

A fast-paced murder mystery featuring the two Military Police investigators from “Yours To Command”. Plans for the holidays are scrapped when a body is found on an Army base in Germany. Still firmly in the closet at work, they stay in a hotel and indulge in some midnight room-hopping but will Rory be able to cope with his assistant’s newly discovered dominant streak? Who killed the translator and why in such a grisly way? Is there a connection to a recent suicide bomb attack in Afghanistan? Killing doesn’t stop just because it’s Christmas, especially in the British Army.

Purchase Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=CLCANCLX

Review: This book is part of a series and although I recommend reading them in order, this book can be read as a standalone. Jack is frustrated when his leave is cancelled, but is thankful for a few extra days with his lover, Rory. Working together in the British Army, they have to be extra cautious in their relationship, because discovery could ruin them both. Being called to a Germany base to investigate the brutal murder of a Territorial Army translator gives them the chance for some room hopping, but the investigation takes a sinister turn as they dig deeper and they discover a connection to a suicide bomber in Afghanistan.

This is a great story based within the British Military and following the Military Police as they investigate a murder. But, we also get to delve into the relationship of Jack and Rory and see how it’s progressing. Jack is looking forward to visiting his parents in Spain for Christmas, while Rory has New Year’s off. But, Jack’s plans are thrown into chaos when his leave is cancelled at the last minute and he and Rory have to go to Germany and get to the bottom of a grisly murder.

We get to see how both Jack and Rory struggle with the strictures placed on them in their relationship by them both being in the Army, especially with Rory being a Captain and Jack a Staff Sergeant. They are cautious, but Rory is extra cautious because of what happened in the past and Jack learns he doesn’t know his lover as much as he thought he did. We also see Rory’s jealousy of Jack’s loving family, but it doesn’t interfere with their relationship. These men are very hot together and make a well suited couple even if they are forced to stay in the closet.

The investigation is really good with some interesting characters. The language is blunt and there is no beating about the bush in this book or political correctness… all the characters are blunt and to the point. I liked the way that even though Jack and Rory’s relationship is very important it faded into the background when it came to the investigation. Because damn, was that part of the story great with both Rory and Jack using any means necessary (well nearly) to get to the truth.

I will recommend this to those who love their men blunt and manly, their sex hot and rough at times, their murders gruesome, their military British, strict and blunt and their men getting a happy for now ending.

 

Midnight Clear by Mercy Celeste

midnightclearTitle:  Midnight Clear

Author: Mercy Celeste

Genre:  Contemporary Holiday Romance

Length:    Novella (20,600 word)

Publisher: Self-published (November 29th, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts

Blurb: Jake has lusted after his college roommate for four long years. Undeniably straight, Logan was out of reach. But was he? After the loss of his first love, Jake discovers that maybe Logan wasn’t as straight as he seemed.

Jake Benefield knows he has to let go of the crush he’s had on Logan Riley for four long years. He leaves to pursue a graduate degree only to discover love and loss. Home again, the last thing he expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Can their friendship survive a cold Christmas one night stand or is Logan looking for more than Jake is ready to give him?

Note from author: Midnight Clear is a re-release formerly titled Need You Now. Other than title there are no significant changes to the story.

Product Link: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/260138

Reviewer:  Showme

Review:  Jake Benefield takes a job teaching in his home town after a tragedy forces him to make a change in his life. He just wants to work and try to go on with his life, but his friend Logan has plans for him. Logan throws a welcome home party and all the usual friends are there.  Jake has changed, but everyone else seems the same. Although Logan and Jake are still “friends”, a sexual encounter with a female friend years before caused a rift in that friendship and things have never been the same since. So, it’s a little awkward when Logan begs Jake to stay after and talk.

Luckily for us, the boys work through their issues and Jake finds out his secret about being gay is something Logan has already figured out. Jake has wanted Logan since the moment he saw him and had no idea Logan might feel something similar. Will giving into their lust mean ruining their on again friendship?

As always Mercy Celeste can write some hot sex. There was almost too much sex since the boys had a lot to work through, but they managed to have discussions between the teasing and biting. The ending was a little easy, but the boys didn’t really need more angst. There was plenty! I actually enjoyed some of the sappier moment from Jake’s former lover and that isn’t always well done. If you’re in the mood for a sexy holiday read with just a little heartache I’d recommend this.

The Perfect Gift by Lisa Worrall

4b3434b466abc6e6e368585eb0b2cf07.image.200x300Title: The Perfect Gift

Series: Mr. Popsalos 02

Author: Lisa Worrall

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (128pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (29th December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 ½Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Jamie and Luke’s first anniversary is fast approach and Jamie knows exactly what he wants to give Luke. The platinum wedding bands have been burning a hole in his suitcase in the attic for two months. But before he can say those four life-changing words, an accident throws their well-ordered lives into disarray.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1368

Tissue Alert: Please keep a box of tissues handy to stem the flow of tears.

Review: This story is part of a series that is best read in order. Jamie and Luke are coming up to their one year anniversary and Jamie has plans to celebrate, but before they come to fruition he has to get through the Christmas school play and Luke has a promotion in his sights, but an accident throws their entire world into chaos.

This isn’t your typical Christmas story, it is funny and heart wrenching and joyful and loving. Jamie and Luke have been together for nearly a year and they have become a family. Reggie is an adorable child and his relationship with both Luke and Jamie is wonderful. Seeing how Jamie has slotted into their family is really nice and the way that Jamie and Luke are together is really sweet. Jamie is my hero in this story and his actions with Reggie and Luke makes you love him to death, and his love for his family is astounding, that man can do no wrong in my eyes.

I am not going into the storyline, all I will tell you, is that it will affect you and make you sniffle into a tissue. There was one bug bear for me and that was we never heard anything about the circumstances of the accident i.e. why it happened. Other than that this story was perfect and I loved the incredible writing, the characters were perfect and really well-developed, the storyline is shocking but brilliant and the ending is incredibly sweet.

Lisa Worrall will tear your heart out, throw it around, jump up and down on it, and throw it in a blender before piecing it back together in a story that will make your eyes fill and tears trickle down your cheeks, before giving you an ending that is pure love and happiness. This is a must read book, so add it to your bookshelf and buy some tissues.

Snowed In by Freddy MacKay

Snowed In400x600Title: Snowed In

Series: A Finding Home Story 02

Author: Freddy MacKay

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Novel (166pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (24th December 2012)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: When their families celebrate Christmas, George receives one request from his boyfriend’s little sister–break up with her brother. Matters are only complicated when she finds an impulsively purchased gift he picked up for Max.

When their families celebrate Christmas at his parents’ cabin, George receives one request from his boyfriend’s little sister, Courtney–break up with her brother. George is devastated that the cute as a button high school freshman has gone from loving to hating him with no explanation as to why, and insecurities about his relationship with Max rear their ugly head.

Max tries to distract and comfort George, but Courtney becomes more hostile and less festive by the minute, upsetting everyone in the house. George leaves to do some last-minute shopping and to give Courtney some space only to run into his ex-boyfriend, which further complicates everything.

Sometimes mixing Christmas with family is a toxic combination.

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1343

Or purchase the entire LET IT SNOW collection: https://spsilverpublishing.com/product_book_info/products_id/1354

Review: This story is part of a series and is best read in order; it is also a good idea to have also read the Finding Peace series as some references to events in that series are mentioned. George and Max are celebrating Christmas together with their families, but problems arise from Courtney’s attitude.  Max’s sister throws a spanner in the works with her about-face towards George and it causes insecurities to rise in George. Now, Max and his family try to get to the bottom of the problem while salvaging Christmas  and George confronts the past while out shopping… can George and Max have a happy Christmas or will events ruin their first Christmas as a couple?

First off, this story isn’t for those who want a blissful happy story all the way through. There are some tough issues to overcome and some soul-searching involved before we get to the happy part and even that is bittersweet. Both George and Max are exactly as I remembered them. With George still being awkward with people and Max with his harsh words when in a temper. They are a great couple and their love is very strong. And they need it as their relationship and love are tested to the extreme. All the characters are well portrayed in this story and it is a very angsty storyline, very angsty which really tears George up and frustrates everyone else.

There isn’t much more that I can say that wouldn’t give away the entire storyline and plot. All I can say is I hated Courtney for what she put George and Max through and then loathed her for putting her family through the terror they must have felt. She might have been a teenager, but she was foul. I couldn’t find much sympathy for her even when she explained everything. And George, oh George. Taking everything on for himself was heart-breaking to see. Max had the right idea and I can only say that I am glad he has George’s heart safely guarded. We do get to see some happy moments between George and Max and we see George put Joe (ex-boyfriend) firmly behind him. The sex between Max and George is hot and they truly are a well suited couple.

So if you love bittersweet Christmases, true love, a tough storyline, lots of angst, putting the past to rest, some danger and two men who are wonderful then this is the book for you.

 

Betting on Snow by H. Lewis-Foster

16204081Title: Betting On Snow

Author: H. Lewis-Foster

Genre: Contemporary, Christmas

Length: Short (30pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (1st December 2012)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Heart

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: On the advice of his best friend, recent unemployed graduate Paul bets there’ll be snow in London on Christmas Day. Four months later, he finds work as an au pair for newly widowed Ben and his two-year-old son. But as Christmas approaches, Paul finds himself looking to Ben for more than just a paycheck.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3373

Or purchase the entire Evergreen collection: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3476

Review: Paul has just graduated from University and on a tip from his friend, Steve, places a bet that it would snow in London on Christmas day. A few months later, Paul is desperate for work and takes a chance on an ad for a male au pair. Something he has no idea about, but he soon becomes close to his charge, George and the little boy’s father, Ben.

This is a cute story that has Christmas cheer and an au pair to lover storyline. Paul is a nice man who tries his luck at a job he hasn’t got a clue about, and he is in luck as Ben really needs the help for his two-year old son, George. Ben lost his partner eleven months before in an accident and although he loves George, Ben just isn’t the stay at home type and George has driven away all the female au pairs. Ben and Paul gradually become close and after Ben makes some painful admissions they end up in bed together.

This is a slow and gentle heart-warming story.  It isn’t rushed and the men get to know each other before jumping into bed. Both characters are well written and the storyline is good.  George is a sweet kid who gives the adults a run for their money. The bet doesn’t have a direct effect on the story, but it is a nice tweak for the ending and it is a very happy ending.

I recommend this to those who love Christmas love, a cute kid, a struggling father and a struggling graduate and a very happy Christmas ending.

The Christmas Snoop by Jean Wolfe

christmas-snoopTitle: The Christmas Snoop

Series: Dreamspinner 2012 Advent Calendar ~ Evergreen

Author: Jean Wolfe

Genre: Holiday,

Length: Short Story (22 pg)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2012)

Reviewer: Thommie

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts

Blurb: After going on a present hunt while his boyfriend, Matt, is in the office, James finds several things he didn’t expect, including photos of Matt in a Christmas jumper, an old teddy bear, and several letters to Santa Claus—one of which states that Matt doesn’t need anything for Christmas because he has James. It seems Matt has been a very good boy this year…

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3412&cPath=722

Review: Ah, sweet, funny and lighthearted Christmas Snoopintroduces us to James and Matt. James has a tradition established with his brothers, ever since they were young, that of present hunting. That always occurred at December 12th  when they had the house all for themselves.

This year is no different, except the fact that James is no longer a kid and he lives with Matt, his lovely, grouchy, not Christmas-y boyfriend, whom James adores. While Matt is at his office James starts his traditional Hunt, but there are no presents to be found. Instead, James discovers a few little things that show a completely different side of his boyfriend. A side no one, beside perhaps James, has really witnessed and that leaves him deeply emotional.

Poor Matt is in for a shock when he returns home and James literally throws himself into his arms, hugging him and kissing him like there’s no tomorrow.

This was quite a sweet and romantic story. I had a feeling things would go wrong what with all James’ snooping and prying into Matt’s things, but Matt took it all in stride and that was perhaps a hint to show how well-balanced their relationship is and how much love and trust is there between the two of them.

The Ghost of Mistletoe Lock by Amy Rae Durreson

TheGhostofMistletoeLockTitle: The Ghosts of Mistletoe Lock

Series: Dreamspinner Advent Calendar 2012 ~ Evergreen

Author: Amy Rae Durreson

Genre: Holiday, Ghosts/Spirits,

Length: Novella

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1st, 2012)

Reviewer: Thommie

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: After lonely divorcé Isaac leaves his job as a banker to work as a conservationist on a country river, he gives up on finding the love he always wanted. Then he meets flirty jeweler Ryan and assumes Ryan’s out of his league, but Ryan’s just as lonely as Isaac. Ryan also has the housemates from hell, and when he storms out of the riotous Christmas party they forgot to warn him about, he soon finds himself lost in the snow.

Ryan passes out in front of the lock cottage where Isaac lives, and once Isaac brings him in from the cold, they finally have a chance to get to know each other. But when their insecurities get in the way, it’s up to the ghost of Mistletoe Lock to ensure they give love a chance.

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3417&cPath=62_702

Review: Wow, the tune of “All I want for Christmas is You” kept me company through this read. How very strange.  This book is the first I’ve read that was so easy in the eye.  So easy to read and follow. so sensual bordering to romantic without being sappy. The melancholic sense turned so smoothly into a wonderful feeling of Christmas joy. Quite a story, I tell you that. It’s weird that it starts with a ghost’s point of view. No, scratch that, it’s brilliant. I couldn’t make up my mind, at the beginning, if it was indeed a Christmas story. But, soon enough I felt compelled to admit that if there ever was one, this is it. So vagueness aside, this is the story of two men, who each have their own pain and loneliness in their hearts.

Isaac is thirty-two years old, recently divorced and his dreams for a family shattered. Although he’s not terribly sad to have lost his wife, he’s tired of not being able to find someone to really share his life with. He settled with a woman and married her for the sake of having children, but his soul always hungered for that perfect dream where his love would be a man; a man like him, who would want a cozy life, a family and love.

Ryan is twenty-six; he spent his childhood from a foster house to another. Family he never had and of course that’s the one thing he literally craves. However, all his relationships backed away once he mentioned this one little thing. He knows he’s needy, how could he not be? Is it so wrong for him to want love and peace?

Through weird circumstances Ryan ends up soaked to the bone and passing out at Isaac’s front door in the middle of the night during a snowstorm. Isaac takes Ryan in, helps him get warm and the spark between them turns to flames. Being the strangers that they are though they stumble through words and instead of barging forth they almost separate in anger. And I say almost because here is the point where Emily (the ghost) makes her appearance once more and locks the two stubborn men in the house. The two of them will have to find a way to work things out in order to be let free and that is exactly what they’ll end doing.

Ok, I know. I can in no way match the feeling that you’ll encounter in the book. I just can’t tell you how this story will feel once you start reading it. The chemistry between the men is great, and I repeat myself it is so brilliantly written, so smooth, I loved it. Their lovemaking is the sweetest thing I’ve read, so very sensual and hot. It comes natural in the context and I wouldn’t have wanted this otherwise. And oh my God, I loved Emily, too. Although, she’s quite a sad story, it blends so well that I think of her as a main character as well. She’s the binding link, more like an angel.

I definitely recommend this book for your Holiday reading and I suggest you have Christmas songs playing low and a glass of wine close for the perfect night.

Just a Casual Thing by Scarlet Blackwell

just a casual thing_800Title:  Just a Casual Thing

Series:  N/A

Author:  Scarlet Blackwell

Genre:   Contemporary

Length:  Novelette

Publisher:  Total E-Bound (November 26, 2012)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   It’s just casual sex with no strings attached…or is it?

Nate and Ronan have hooked up for mind-blowing sex every Monday for the past two years, but when Nate meets Shane in a bar, he thinks he’s found ‘the one’. Shane owns a chocolate shop and loves to bring his work into his personal life, and after a night of chocolate-coated sex Nate will never forget, he decides to break off his casual arrangement with Ronan to give the relationship a chance.

There’s only one problem—Ronan is intelligent and irresistible, and he knows Nate better than anyone else. To make matters even more complicated, lately Nate can’t get enough of his kisses, whether they lead to sex or not. Can Nate figure out what—and who—he really wants, before he loses both of the men in his life?

Product Link:  http://www.total-e-bound.com/product.asp?strParents=&CAT_ID=&P_ID=1873

Reviewer:   Cat

Review:  Wow! I’d give this story five times five stars! I was so hooked from the first page I couldn’t stop until I was done. Then, I was tempted to read it again!

Nate and Ronan were just casual hookups for two years. They met every Monday night for the best sex of their life. Nate was looking for something more though and he let Ronan know.  Although none of his new lovers ever made it longer than what he expected and even when he said ‘this may be the one’, Nate never gave up Ronan. Then, he meets Shane. Shane doesn’t compare physically to Ronan or even in the bedroom, but for some reason, Nate is sure that Shane is the one. As he decides to give Ronan up, he begins to think more and more of him. Their relationship seems different and Nate knows that he has to end it.

The tension in this story is amazing! I was on pins and needles the whole time. I felt so bad for Ronan. Then, Nate and then, Brian. There were several times that I wanted to slap Shane and Nate. The sex scenes were all hot and erotic, yet sensual.

I recommend this book to EVERYONE! If you love Scarlet Blackwell, loving romance, chocolate, hot men, less than perfect men, M/M Romance, and really, really, mind-blowing sex, this is a must read!