Giving a Little TLC by Jackie Nacht

18806252Title: Giving a Little TLC

Series:  Holiday Jobs That Don’t Suck #9

Author:   Jackie Nacht

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novella (59 pages)

Publisher:  eXstasy Books (November 10th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb: Cancelled flight, car breakdown and Black Friday—Quinn has a Thanksgiving that is one example of Murphy’s Law after another, but then, there’s the handsome twin Mitch…

Quinn has the worst luck. His flight home for Thanksgiving is cancelled due to the weather, and now an unexpected invite has him spending the holiday with his frat brother Sawyer and his sexy twin brother Mitch. Between a car breakdown, a family member who is a militant shopper and preparing the holiday meal, somehow Mitch and Quinn find themselves having a romantic fling. The only problem is: hearts begin to get involved. And once they get back to campus, can the two somehow become more?

Purchase Link:   http://www.extasybooks.com/jackie-nacht/giving-a-little-tlc/

Review: Okay so we have a ton of handsome well-adjusted gay men in this story. Hip, Hip, Hooray! However, three brothers – all gay- a little unlikely.  Not impossible or even improbable, just unlikely!  It made this reviewer curious to read the story about the parents and how they dealt with three gay sons, but I digress.  However, the story is really about Quinn and Mitch, who are both in college, their meeting, discovering they like each other and pursuing what one does in college – dating and having fun.

The way the two fall quickly into bed with each other is very reminiscent of how boys behave in college and it is clear that Mitch is well on his way to being a pretty aggressive, but lovable top. The story is very realistic and the interaction between all the men seems honest and believable. Two young hormone ridden men hit it off and then proceed to have lots of sex and follow it up with more sex when they get back to campus.  There is no allusion here to happily ever afters, because this is clearly a college relationship – but what is pleasant to see is that these young men are happy, living their lives with supportive parents and friends in a healthy atmosphere.

So if you are looking for a short feel good romp about good-looking young men who are having lots of sex – then this is definitely for you.

One Perfect Night by Christiane France

81CDjDPbkLL._SL1500_Title: One Perfect Night

Series:  N/A

Author:   Christiane France

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novella (59 pages)

Publisher:  Amber Quill Press (October 31st, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  Paul knew Nico was special the moment they exchanged that first glance at Termini station in Rome late one hot summer afternoon. And when it was announced their train had been cancelled and travel suspended until further notice, they explored their feelings over dinner and spent one perfect night of passion in a nearby hotel.


Early next morning, when Nico found a flight cancellation and took off, all Paul knew about him was his first name.


Two years later, Paul hasn’t forgotten Nico, and now when they meet again at another train station in London, the chemistry is still there. Nico believes Fate brought them together, and is ready to close his eyes and jump into a relationship. Paul, however, believes they need to be sensible, to first check the water, and then take it one-step at a time. Which man’s strategy will prevail?

Purchase Link:   http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/OnePerfectNight.html

Review: So this is Paul’s story since he provides the narration and it’s told from his point of view.  The premise of the story is one of two men who are like ships passing the night who then miraculously get a second chance.  It builds the premise for an epic love story. The men have a very strong physical attraction to each other, which they indulge in whenever they meet.  However, after the second meeting, which is two years after the first, they both seem to realize that they’d like to see where they can take the relationship. 

The relationship between the men progress VERY quickly – more quickly than most people would consider healthy, but the reader must bear in mind that this is an epic love story based on fate making sure that Paul and Nico will find eternal love. The HEA is spelled out in the story and you know the men have strong feelings, but you get the feeling that there may be issues down the road because the two men really don’t know each other at all – the love they feel may very well be chemistry and sex induced.

There is a lot of discussion of Paul’s job that seems to fill space rather than really contribute to the story, and then there is an entire scene written about Nico’s job and I’m not certain of the purpose of that either.  With that said, the story is not a sit on the edge of your seat page turner, but it is fun to watch the two men meet for the second time, and to see the story of their first meeting in flashbacks offered by Paul.

The reader will enjoy Nico and Paul.

Newton's Law of Attraction by M.J. O'Shea

NewtonsLawsOfAttractionLGTitle: Newton’s Law of Attraction

Series:  N/A

Author:   M.J. O’Shea

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novella (134 pages)

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (November 27th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicitly HOT!

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  Rory was Ben’s oldest and best friend until senior year of high school, when they confessed they’d harbored feelings for each other all along. They enjoyed only a few months of happiness until Ben chose closeted popularity over true love… and he’s regretted it ever since. 

Eight years later, Ben is out, proud, and teaching art at the same high school, he graduated from. When he learns the chemistry teacher is retiring, he’s excited to meet her replacement until he finds out the brand new teacher is none other than Rory Newton—the first love he’s never quite gotten over. Despite a painfully awkward start, it doesn’t take Ben long to realize he’ll do whatever it takes to win Rory back. But it’s starting to look like even his best might not be enough.

Purchase Link:   http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4393

Review: Sigh. Sometimes you read a love story and all that is left to do is to sigh happily. The love story between Rory and Ben is beautifully told without dragging the reader through chapters of preamble and teenage angst.  We are introduced to the foundation that is Rory and Ben and then we meet the adult counterparts, which is where the story really begins.  Every notable couple in history has had to battle a myriad of trials in order for them to earn true love.  Rory and Ben are no different, except the trials they must battle are themselves.

The story has a lovely yin and yang feel to it. It is Ben who ends their teenage love affair and when they meet again, it was Ben who must work to regain Rory’s affection.  As such, this puts Rory as the alpha in the relationship and so when he shatters Ben’s illusions, it becomes Rory’s job to then be the hero and save their love. This establishes a balance between them and balances the scales so to speak.  This is critical because for most of the story Ben serves as a whipping boy and while Ben is happy to be self-sacrificing and take whatever he can get from Rory, the reader has to admit that Rory is being a tad selfish and maybe a little self-absorbed.  Yet through it all, the reader forgives Rory, acknowledging his pain and fear from his former broken relationship with Ben.  But, Rory is still lovely and the reader still roots for he and Ben to find their HEA.

The secondary characters in the story are also well written and crafted and do an excellent job in providing the reader with insight into Rory since the story is narrated from Ben’s perspective. The key to a good romance is for the reader to really like the characters and to either be able to see themselves as one of them or for the writer to craft the tale in such a way that the reader feels that they are living the story with them. The reader in this story feels like one of the friends sitting on the sidelines and watching these two men who are desperately in love with each other make mistake after mistake instead of simply claiming the happiness the both so richly deserve. So when it finally happens the reader is thrilled and then what you get is a smile and well … a happy sigh.

GREAT READ.

With His Yoga Instructor by Morgan King

WHYI__11051.1384206393.300.450Title:  With His Yoga Instructor

Series:  Moving on…

Author:   Morgan King

Genre:  Erotic Romance

Length:  Novella (88 pages)

Publisher:  Evernight Publishing (November 11th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥3Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb: Blake is the yoga instructor of Jamie’s dreams. He’s gorgeous, funny, smart, and has a body to die for. There is no way he’d be interested in someone like Jamie, or so the voice inside Jamie’s head says. The same voice that believed all the nasty things his ex, Dan, said.

 

Jamie is so cute, and shy. Blake just wants to give him a big hug, protect him and then fuck him in that very sexy arse of his. How can he convince Jamie to give him a chance, especially when it becomes clear Blake has his own insecurities that he’ll need Jamie’s help to overcome?

 

When Dan decides he was a fool to let Jamie go, do Blake and Jamie trust and love each other enough to be what the other needs?

Purchase Link:   http://www.evernightpublishing.com/with-his-yoga-instructor-by-morgan-king/

Review:  Jamie is insecure from having just broken up with his douche nozzle boyfriend.  Blake harbours a secret crush. The men get together and the physical attraction is instant and sizzling. There is a significant amount of man on man loving in the story, and at first blush it may appear to be gratuitous, but as the story progresses, the sex becomes a way for Jamie and Blake not only to bond, but it’s also the metaphor for Jamie moving on by becoming more forceful and uninhibited.  The sex is freeing between the two men and is symbolic of their relationship. Both men must come to new realizations – Jamie, that he is worthy and can be assertive if he needs to be; and, Blake that he needs to let go of some of his inhibitions regarding commitment if he wishes to have a life with Jamie. Blake, while a dreamboat, does have his own issues with personal space and acceptance which must be worked out as well.

Stories told from multiple perspectives are always interesting.  Both Jamie and Blake’s versions are told simultaneously which is always good for the reader because they get to experience both characters PoV. There was even a portion, where the douch nozzle ex-boyfriend, Dan, was given the opportunity to showcase his thoughts.  The pacing of the story was great and believable and when the men had their two crises and were able to resolve them, the reader is pleased.  As shorter stories go, this one was well written, interesting and held the reader’s attention.  The characters of Jamie and Blake are likable and you root for them to work through their individual issues in order for them to be together. When the HEA occurs, the reader is happy.

The Little Things by Jay Northcote

LittleThings[The]LGTitle:  The Little Things

Author: Jay Northcote 

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Length:  Novel (214 pages)

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (November 22nd 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   There are lots of things that brighten Joel’s life. His three-year-old daughter, Evie, is one. His close relationship with her mother, his best friend from university, is another. Joel’s boyfriend, Dan, adds spice to his childfree nights, and Joel is pretty happy with how things are.

Then one cold and rainy night, everything changes. Joel’s life is turned upside down when he becomes a full-time dad to Evie, and his previously carefree relationship with Dan cracks under the strain.

Meeting Liam, who acts as if getting hurt isn’t a foregone conclusion, shakes Joel to the core. Their attraction is mutual, and Liam makes no secret of how serious he is about Joel. But Joel is wary. He tells himself he’s keeping Liam at a distance for Evie’s sake, when really he’s protecting his own heart. Taking a chance on this new relationship with Liam may seem a small step—a little thing—but is it one Joel can take after losing so much already?

Product Link:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4390

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Joel’s life is turned upside down when in a matter of days he loses his best friend, then his boyfriend and becomes a full-time dad. Joel is no stranger to loss, and this recent turn of events causes him to completely reevaluate his life. Claire’s death, his best friend and the mother of his daughter, has left him raw and vulnerable. On one hand he begins looking at things differently, on the other he becomes more guarded. Little imperfections he previously overlooked in his relationship with Dan become large gashes, and soon enough they split, amicably. Joel resides himself to just being Evie’s father, until a trip to the ER changes everything, again.

Liam is larger than life, carefree, and too good to be true. And he has his sights set on Joel. The first time Joel ran into him, literally, was the night Claire died and Liam lent him a shoulder to cry on. Then they ran into each other at the bar the night Joel broke up with Dan. When Joel has to rush Evie to the ER one night, Liam is there on duty. Again, Liam is friendly, receptive, and flirtatious and this time Joel accepts. Slowly these two get to know each other and feeling of like start showing signs of love. It seems like as soon as Joel realizes he loves Liam, he slams the door. He is so afraid of losing one more thing he cares for that he is resigned to ending things before they even start. Joel does some serious soul-searching and concludes that Liam is worth the risk. The question now is, does Liam still think Joel is worth the risk?

This was such a heartwarming story about love, loss, and evolving. Joel has no contempt or anger consuming him like a lot of people would have, dealing with what he’s dealt with. Even his broken relationship with Dan wasn’t what I first assumed when reading the blurb. It’s more Joel’s decision than Dan’s and it’s more of an outgrowing each other than Dan leaving Joel because he became a full-time father. Liam has experienced loss as well so he can relate to what Joel is feeling. Joel has to come to terms with his own issues and not let them define who he is in order to make things between him and Liam work. He has to learn that life is about The Little Things!

A little bit of drama, a little bit of angst and a lot of love! I definitely recommend The Little Things. There are some oh so sexy couch and bed room romps, but make sure you have tissues handy as well. There are some tear-jerker moments.

 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*

http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Blame it on the Mistletoe by Eli Easton

81E9jvrOfAL._SL1500_Title: Blame it on the Mistletoe

Series:   N/A

Author: Eli Easton

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (99 pages)

Publisher: Eli Easton (November 16th, 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Reviewer:   Eli/Mandingo

Blurb: When physics grad student Fielding Monroe and skirt-chaser and football player Mick Colman become college housemates, they’re both in for a whole new education. Mick looks out for the absent-minded genius, and he helps Fielding clean up his appearance and discovers all the silly pleasures his strict upbringing as a child prodigy denied him. They become best friends. 

It’s all well and good until they run into a cheerleader who calls Mick the ‘best kisser on campus.’ Fielding has never been kissed, and he decides Mick and only Mick can teach him how it’s done. After all, the physics department’s Christmas party is coming up with its dreaded mistletoe. Fielding wants to impress his peers and look cool for once in his life. The thing about Fielding is, once he locks onto an idea, it’s almost impossible to get him to change his mind. And he just doesn’t understand why his straight best friend would have a problem providing a little demonstration. 

Mick knows kissing is a dangerous game. If he gives in, it would take a miracle for the thing not to turn into a disaster. Then again, if the kissing lessons get out of hand they can always blame it on the mistletoe. 

Purchase Link:   http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GQHCBI0

Review: Okay all of us are a sucker for any variation of the Ugly Ducking or the Cinderella story. No matter how many times we see it or read it, we still love it. This story takes that theme and then adds the friends to lovers theme with straight guy realizing he may not be as straight as he first thought  – put all together, it’s an irresistible combination.  Then you throw in a vampy harpy and a kiss under the mistletoe – what’s not to love? The book is not a long read, but in the 99 pages, we get a very good character sketch of both Fielding and Mick and it becomes very clear to the reader that they two men care deeply about each other way before they develop romantic feelings.

Fielding Monroe exhibits some classic Asperger’s type behaviours, which makes his literal and very black and white personality and approach to getting his very kiss extremely believable.  Mick’s confusion and his reluctance to change his relationship with Fielding is also equally as understandable.  Mick has created a life and reality for himself that includes Fielding but seeking to disturb that status quo is not one, which Mick is ready to make.  The insertion of Fielding’s father into the story, which serves as the catalyst for Mick to move to a new reality, is perhaps the most heart-warming paragraph to read.

The underlying theme, however, is that Fielding, who many would consider odd, was actually quite essential to Mick’s happiness and thus reinforces the idea that there is someone for everyone.  At its core, this story is really about Mick and his discovering that perhaps what he thought he wanted out of life and what it will take to make him happy may not be the same thing; and thus for him to find love it will require him to readjust his current perspective and be willing to accept a new one.

A very quick and thoroughly enjoyable read.

Taking a Chance by Anne Brooke

18756941Title:  Taking a Chance

Author: Anne Brooke 

Genre:   Contemporary Romance with a hint of BDSM

Length:  Novella (11,500 word count)

Publisher:  Wilde City Press (November 5th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb:   The moment model and part-time actor Benjamin spots the sexually alluring Alan outside his local restaurant, he’s determined to get to know him better. So he takes a chance and pretends to be Timothy, the blind date Alan is waiting for.

When Alan asks him about submission, safe words, and spanking, Benjamin knows the sensible thing to do would be to leave. Funny then how he finds himself eager to know more. Will it be a date to remember and, if Alan discovers his deceit, could he ever be persuaded to take a chance on Benjamin?

Product Link:  http://www.wildecity.com/books/gay-romance/taking-a-chance/#.Unp6Ifl4yVo

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  A case of mistaken identity turns out to be a good thing in this sexy little short, with just a hint of BDSM.

When Benjamin is approached by a slightly older, graying, and gorgeous stranger, he pretends to be the blind date the guy is waiting for. Within the first five minutes of conversation, Alan is describing in great detail exactly what he wants to do to Benjamin. Taking a chance, Benjamin rides it out to see where the evening takes him. When he figures out that Alan is a Dom, he continues the charade. The two share a very passionate and sensual night, but when Alan learns that Benjamin is not who he pretended to be, will he take a chance on him?

This is the first book I’ve read by Anne Brooke. It will not be the last! The author captured the essence of sensuality in so few pages. The way Alan dominated Benjamin with zero cruelty and played his body in ways Benjamin had never been played, was just oh so sexy. I tore through this book on my lunch break. If you’re looking for something quick and sexy that will leave a huge smile on your face, take a chance on this one! (Pun intended!!)

Bottom's Up by Etienne

BottomsUpLGTitle: Bottom’s Up

Series: About a Bottoms 01 An Avondale Story

Author: Etienne

Genre: Contemporary

ISBN: 978-1-62798-235-1

Length: Novel (250pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (20th November 2013)

Heat Level: Low    

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥ 3½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: RN First Assistant Chris Bottoms enjoys being a bottom. Though abused by his stepfather as a boy and conditioned to enjoy sex only one particular way, he’s come to make the most of his life. And he enjoys bottoming—to the hilt—whenever and wherever he can. 

As if colorectal cancer wasn’t enough of a trial, the subsequent botched surgery robs him of normal bodily functions—no more prostate massage for Chris. In the middle of his medical drama, his best friend, Mickey O’Donovan, accepts a promotion that brings him to live in Jacksonville. Roommates in college, they’ve remained friends and occasional fuck buddies ever since. Chris’s crisis brings their relationship to a new level, though, and long-suppressed feelings are revealed. 

Chris and Mickey settle down together and life is good, even though they can no longer indulge in their favorite sexual position. But Chris can’t seem to catch a break. When his past rears its head, Chris and Mickey must face a new challenge, together.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4376 

Review: Chris loves being a bottom, conditioned from long years of abuse he can only really get off with prostate massage but he makes the most of it at every opportunity. But then, he gets bad news, colon cancer, and it gets worse when the operation is botched and Chris’s bodily functions are no longer his own to control. Mickey has been Chris’s best friend since college and Chris’s medical diagnosis has him admitting his true feelings to Chris and finding out he wasn’t the only one hiding his true feelings. Together they go forward with their new life and things are good but they get a surprise when Chris’s past rears its head and they have new decisions to make.

This was quite a good story that shows that the world doesn’t end after surgery and that life can be fulfilling when changes need to be made. Chris is a very sexually active RN First Class and he loves being aboard a carrier with all the available men, being shipped to another station finds him making many friends who are there for him when he gets the bad news. Mickey is the man who has been a constant in his life since college, and now is no different. Taking a promotion and confessing his feelings has him getting his heart’s desire and he holds Chris up as Chris faces the complications and the reality of his life. 

This really is a great book that shows us the harsh realities but glosses over the details of a surgery that is botched, it shows the strong men who deal with it the best they can and then plow on with their lives together. Both Chris and Mickey are great characters, we follow them along as they make a new life together and deal with their problems in a timely manner, accepting change with help from other quarters and dealing with a big surprise in the only way they know how and then facing the shock of the situation.  

I have read many of Etienne’s books and his writing style isn’t for everyone, he brings us stories about some hard-hitting subjects of which child abuse, cancer and botch surgery are in this story, he gives us enough to know the pain that has been suffered without forcing us to endure it also and he gives us stories about everyday men with the everyday existence of their lives. There isn’t excitement thrown in to titillate or great love scenes to get you hot, there is just the story told in a fashion that interests without overwhelming the reader and makes you wonder what will happen next in Chris and Mickey’s life. We are treated to some wonderful settings with many of the characters from the various Avondale stories, we see Dan and Mickey building a life together and being happy despite what has befallen Chris.

I recommend this if you want an interesting story, men admitting how they really feel, love that sticks through thick and thin, and a story that leaves you wondering what happens next.                   

Fate is a Series of Choices We Make by Jane Wallace Knight

18642243Title: Fate is a Series of Choices We Make

Series: The Wolves of Greenwich 02

Author: Jane Wallace Knight

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (133pgs)

Publisher: Siren-BookStrand (17th October 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥ 3 – 3½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: After learning that his brother is a vampire/angel hybrid, Kieran O’Callaghan has some trouble adjusting to the new and strange world he’s being dragged in to. If it weren’t for Joey, the werewolf who has seemingly taken it upon himself to be Kieran’s friend and guide, Kieran wouldn’t know how to handle it all.

Joey Taylor was born and raised in Australia by a deeply religious, and prejudiced, pack of werewolves. Some people might think him a little unusual, but Joey is nothing if not loyal. When he meets Kieran, he instantly knows that the man is his fated mate. It should be the best day of his life, only Kieran is completely straight and just out of a long-term relationship. With Joey resigned to the fact that he can only ever be Kieran’s friend, and Kieran determined to fight fate every step of the way, can they find their way to each other before it’s too late.

Purchase Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/fate-is-a-series-of-choices-we-make 

Review: This book is part of a series and must be read in order. In the aftermath of the kidnapping in The Holy Trinity Joey is left keeping Sam’s mum company and trying to explain things to her, he is surprised when his mate walks through the door and he is human, and straight. Kieran is finding it hard to believe everything that has been revealed to him but with Joey guiding the way he begins to get a handle on it, that is until he begins to have feelings for Joey. Struggling with his torn feelings for two people, his ex-girlfriend and Joey, Kieran doesn’t know which way to turn and he resents that the choice might be taken out of his hands. Joey can only stand by and hope that Kieran will stop fighting fate, but Joey is encouraged to open his heart to Kieran.

This story continues from The Holy Trinity Sam’s brother Kieran in the starring role. This is a great continuation of The Wolves of Greenwich as Kieran gets pulled into his brothers new-found world, there is lots of soul-searching for Kieran as he falls for Joey, a fact that has him confused and then angry as he thinks his choice has been taken from him. Joey is perfect as the patient wolf, biding his time until his mate learns to accept him. Things get passionate between them but Kieran has more than just a mating to think about when Joey gets carried away, and angst follows, as Kieran has to decide what he wants.

I enjoyed this story and liked getting a glimpse of Sam, Jackson, and Alek. Kieran is really torn over what he thought he would always have and what fate says he should have, finding himself attracted to a man really does shake him up especially as he isn’t sure that he still doesn’t want the ex. Joey is really patient and has a hard time coping while Kieran decides what he wants, and I liked it when he took matters into his own hands. While Kieran and Joey work out their relationship, we see Sam still trying to find the man who took him to Rita’s when he was a boy, and we see poor Luka who isn’t coping. 

I recommend this to those who love shifters, friends to lovers and mates, struggling with choices of the heart, hot sex and a great ending. 

 

 

Wolf Moon by A.J. Llewellyn

81sb0Oru7EL._SL1500_Title: Wolf Moon

Series: Moon Series, Book #2

Author: A. J. Llewellyn

Length: Novella (94 Pages)

Publisher: Totally Bound Publishing (November 21st, 2013)

Heat Level: Low to Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 to 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: If you had the chance to go back and erase the last twelve years of your life…would you?

World champion surfer Gaby Loe inexplicably lost twelve years of his life when he wiped out in a bad surfing accident. When he came to the surface, he discovered his beloved dog Ginger, his car, his keys, and his entire life were gone. Ntino, the man he’d loved had turned on him. Mickey True, his best friend, had stolen his name and was making money based on Gaby’s mysterious disappearance. But Gaby has the perfect life now, with Pono, the man he loves, until…

Unbelievably, on Christmas morning, on the day of a wolf moon, when magic is supposed to happen, the two men have a rare fight and Gaby grabs his board and goes surfing. He wipes out again and when he makes it back to shore, Ginger is waiting for him. Somehow, Gaby has gone back in time and its twelve years ago. Ntino is waiting for him. Mickey is still his friend. Can he—will he—take control of his past to secure the future of his dreams?

Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/wolf-moon

Review: This book is an amazing read. It leads into many things paranormal and has a fantastic pull to it.

Gaby is a world champion surfer who lost twelve years. The boyfriend from the past is in the past. He falls in love with Pono, who in turn loves him with every breath he has in him. There is a twist to this story that will fascinate you and will entice you to read more. Gaby is a loving and caring man, who in the past was kind of selfish, but in the future is the best man he could be. Pono is a tender and caring man, who is so easy to fall in love with. The sex between them is just as they are tender and loving.

There is a time traveling element in this story that brings the plot into the amazing category. I sit on the bed, with the classic music channel playing and read this story all the way through. It kept me on the edge of my seat.

I loved this story and will love having it in my library to be read later on.

What You Own by A.M. Arthur

WhatYouOwnLGTitle: What You Own

Series:  N/A

Author:   A. M. Arthur

Genre: Contemporary

Length:  Novel (200 pages)

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (November 29th, 2013)

Heat:  Explicit

Heart:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Reviewer: Eli/Mandingo

Blurb:  For Ryan Sanders, the Paige Community Center is more than a place where he teaches at-risk teens about musical theater. He found a sense of belonging there during one of the hardest times of his life. With the center facing a financial crisis, he’ll do whatever it takes to keep the doors open—even soliciting fundraiser donations from Langley-Quartermaine Financial.

Adam Langley has a plan: survive an internship at his father’s company, finish college, get his trust fund, and find his former high school best friend Ryan and beg his forgiveness. In that order, because if Ryan does forgive him, Adam believes he’ll finally find the courage to come out to his wealthy, bigoted father.

Adam’s carefully considered plan is shattered when Ryan appears at the office a full ten months before Adam is ready, and Ryan is just as stunned. Against his better judgment, Adam gets involved with the fundraiser—and Ryan. Old feelings won’t be denied, and as Ryan and Adam reconnect, they realize neither knows the entire truth about the horrific night three years earlier, that tore their friendship apart.

Purchase Link:   http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4397

Review: Okay so let’s get the most important thing out-of-the-way. EXCELLENT read.  Buy the book, support the author, and as the young people say, #nuffsaid!

Now let’s get on to the business of a review.  YA coming of age stories have been done to death and they come in a myriad of forms.  The story line is fairly predictable in YA and so the depth and likability of a story comes from a reader’s empathy with the characters and feeling like you have a stake in the outcome of the young men.  The reader gets that in spades with this story.  I should let you know that you will need to have a device nearby to YouTube the various Broadway songs as they are talked about in the book.  The title, of course, gives the reader a hint, since it’s one of Rent’s iconic songs. The book gives you a two-fer, a great read and some nice ear worms as well.

Adam and Ryan have been through the ringer.  Their childhood friendship and budding romance are shattered first by violence and then by cruelty disguised as love, caring and well-being. These two young men must both learn to trust again, but the love they felt for each other was never lost. What they must do, however, is take control of their lives if they wish to chart their own destiny. This is a lesson that Adam, moreso, that Ryan must learn. Often readers are annoyed with the indecisiveness of their YA characters, but that is central and believable to their current level of maturation, making their fear and inability to commit to a course very believable. What the reader hopes to see is that the character can begin to grow and mature from whatever situation they are placed in. This is done perfectly in this story.

Aligning the book with a Broadway show gives the reader the same sense of anticipation of watching a show and waiting for the climax. The reader is taken along the metaphorical play performance while also watching the story of the two men unfold. The other characters of family, friends and co-workers provide meaningful input into the story and push the two characters along to their inevitable ending. The end of the story is fitting as it culminates in both the benefit performance and Adam coming into his own. 

Bravo!  *Cue curtain call for standing ovation*

The Seventh Sacrifice by Tali Spencer

818pTzb8VzL._SL1500_Title: The Seventh Sacrifice

Author: Tali Spencer

Genre: Paranormal

ISBN: 9781627570749

Length: Short Story (32 Pages)

Publisher: Storm Moon Press (October 30th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Beltran is a peaceful man, but when his Bolivian cousin is brutalized, he seeks out a native sorcerer in a quest for vengeance. He has no way of knowing Katari, the Inca shaman, is an amaru demon, a serpent shifter determined to break an ancient spell. Beltran’s desire for black magic gives Katari what he’s waited centuries to acquire—a perfect sacrifice.

Product Link: http://www.stormmoonpress.com/books/The-Seventh-Sacrifice.aspx

Review: A tale that takes you in a mix of myth and fiction The Seventh Sacrifice follows Beltran’s attempt to revenge his cousin. Seeking a charm from a shaman Beltran never really believes that it will work. But the shaman, Katari, bewitches him in ways he doesn’t understand. Katari’s beauty is undeniable, but even more so are the dark eyes that compel Beltran to surrender.

For centuries enslaved by the ancient spell, the time has finally arrived for Katari to perform his part of the sacrifice that will break the old spell. Last of his brothers, the seventh sacrifice is going to release their mother and give them all their full powers and true for, the amaru. Katari could have very well used a less suitable sacrifice years before, but he waited for the perfect one to come, and Beltran is that one.

So much magic, dark one at that, serpent gods, old myths woven around a very creative idea. The eroticism that goes hand in hand with the spell, sacrifices and blood, this story is a well of sensuality thick with passionate hunger and power that consumes the human mind.
I liked it. I found it enthralling and exotic. A part of me wanted Katari to succeed, another dreaded that success, and I was right to believe that it would be a bloody one when the time would come.

As for the pair itself, while the chemistry between them was heavy and had me charmed, it somehow faltered at the final scene of the claiming. It was hot, very much so, but still I found it a bit bland at the very end.

Nevertheless, this story is quite worth it and I definitely recommend it to those who love Inkas’ mythology and godlike characters.

Wildwood by Thea Hayworth

71garni0yRL._SL1500_Title: Wildwood

Author: Thea Hayworth

Genre: Fantasy

ISBN: 978-1-62757-041-1

Length: Short Story (62 pages)

Publisher: Storm Moon Press (August 12th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: The wood-locked town of Orm is facing a problem. Their forest home is turning to the wilds, beyond their control to force it back. In a quest to discover the reason, ranger Koster seeks out the mysterious Irsing, the guardian of the forest. And even though Irsing may be the one responsible for the calamity, Koster aims to do whatever it takes to set things right.

Product Link: http://www.stormmoonpress.com/books/Wildwood.aspx

Review: I just loved it! This story managed to give me the impression I was reading a full on novel instead of a 50 pages short. And not only that, it was simply wonderful. I absolutely adored it.

This is a tale that takes you in a time of magic, when men and gods walked the earth side by side. Forests, lakes, rivers, and practically nature had a living, breathing heartbeat and Guardian Lords cared for what was theirs. But in the small town of Orm, surrounded by the huge forest Oakensea, their Guardian Lord has abandoned them and the people fear the forest will turn wild on them.
Ranger Koster is send from the kingdom to take the place of a former ranger, and due to his previous experience with a forest turned wild, he is an asset. Koster, a big man that makes you think of bandits at first look, is a kind spirit and the town’s people quickly take a like on him. But they are not the only ones. Master Oakensea himself keeps an eye on the young ranger who managed to awaken his interest after about twenty years of seclusion.

This is a very wholesome story and I’m frankly very surprised by it. The idea that even ethereal creatures get lonely and can withdraw from society, waiting for their deaths is a powerful one. Irsing literally doesn’t want to be seen because he’s grown older and his appearance is no longer, what humans are used to, green and fresh. He rather resembles his forest that is old and ancient, and for that he has withdrawn from everybody, yet he still lurks around when people join the festivities in his honor to guard them from darkness and the evils it hides. It is Koster that brings him out slowly and strengthens him with his beliefs that he is beautiful inside out and the most caring Guardian Koster has met.

Together they protect the forest from Necromancers and their evil spawns, they form a friendship and a bit more, but most of all, Koster gives Irsing a reason to fight and live.

Wonderful tale, really. I adored every part of it. It was not so much based on romance as it was on other human feelings. Friendship had a great part in this story. There was plenty of action, swordsmanship and a Guardian Lord that kicked ass with his moves. Hell, yeah. Brilliant! And when the time came for the two of them to get intimate, let’s just say it was the first time that the “tentacle” sex didn’t cause a parallel feeling of horror in me. It was so well-balanced and in the heart of the story, you got to actually adore Irsing at that point that the intimacy between them two was nothing short of sweet and romantic and made you wish for a bit more.

On that note, I seriously hope this author keeps up with this world, because it was a beautiful one, intriguing as it get and it would be a shame to let go. As for this story? Strongly recommended to anyone who loves fantasy, I’m sure you’ll love it as I did.

 

Reviewing Life by Lara Brukz

ReviewingLifeLGTitle: Reviewing Life

Series:   Sequel to Five Star Review

Author: Lara Brukz

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (134 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 19, 2013)

Heat: Moderate

Heart: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer:   Eli/Mandingo

Blurb: Recovering alcoholic Marshall Ellerbee still grieves the loss of his best friend and lover, Eric. After a year of sobriety, Marshall accepts a new job with the Wellness Center, something else to help him continue cleaning up his life. Things are finally improving when his sponsor has a heart attack. The counselor hired to replace him is none other than Kyle Young, the lost ex’s best friend. Kyle has always hated Marshall, but now they must work together and move past their history. When Marshall saves Eric’s life, Kyle suddenly sees Marshall in a new light. But will romance unsettle Marshall’s hard-won new stability…

Purchase Link:   http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4378

Review: The m/m genre loves a broken man who must claw his way back to life and this book is no exception to the rule.  How much more broken can you get than to be an alcoholic who must learn to take things one day at a time. The reader meets Marshall after he has devastated not only his own life but that of others as well.  But the Marshall the reader meets is one who is reformed and trying daily to live the life he must, as he conquers those familiar twelve steps.

The book is well written, the characters nicely developed and exceedingly likable, the pacing excellent and the storyline very believable.  As a contemporary story, a reader could not ask for much more. It is also a great depiction of the life of a recovering alcoholic, and how they must exist, if they are not to fall prey to their addiction. The characters of Marshall and Kyle are well crafted and their romance is intriguing to watch as Marshall must earn Kyle’s respect and Kyle must learn to overcome his prejudices.  The crisis in the story, however, occurs not when Marshall encounters a roadblock, but instead it is when Kyle must confront his own prejudices and fears.  The secondary characters of Eric, Cade and Dane are also written well to help propel the storyline along.

Without giving away plot secrets, the epilogue and the sport the two men are involved in is a great metaphor for the entire story and really provides the story’s theme: Sometimes in life you simply have to either be willing to step out in faith or trust that when you take that step, someone will either be there to catch you or hold you as you go. 

The Left Hand Path by Jeff Erno

LeftHandPath[The]LGTitle:  The Left Hand Path

Author: Jeff Erno 

Genre:   Urban Fantasy

Length:  Novel (180 pages)

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press, October 30th 2013

Heat Level:  Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   William Austin has always wanted to be a nurse, though he’s no longer sure the gratification is worth the pain of losing a patient. For now, he’s a nursing student and works two jobs—barista and private nurse. Will meets Blaine Coventry at the coffee shop, and when the altruistic young attorney offers him a job caring for his Uncle Elliot, Will accepts. Will finds that Elliot’s stroke has left him unable to walk or talk, and Elliot’s husband, James, says the goal is to keep Elliot comfortable until he passes. But Will starts rehabilitation, and his patient soon begins to make progress. When James resists, Will realizes something isn’t right, and investigates. Then he discovers a chilling secret that threatens to forever change Will’s life… or perhaps end it.

Product Link:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4283

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Mysterious, suspenseful, and intriguing. This is not at all like the usual work that Erno gives us and I was pleasantly surprised.

Will Austin struggles to make ends meet, working full-time at Starbucks in dreams of becoming a nurse. He is a good-natured person that is passionate about helping people. When a kind and sexy stranger helps him with his broken down car one afternoon, sparks fly and the two are soon enough in a committed relationship. Blaine is a tall, dark, and handsome attorney and he took to Will immediately. He’s just as kind and generous as Will for the most part, but there is something about his domineering side in the bedroom that nags at Will.

When Blaine learns that Will has hospice experience and experiencing the patience that radiates off of the man, Blaine asks Will to help care for his ailing uncle. Will isn’t with Blaine’s uncles more than a day before he is able to make a difference for the better. But Elliot bounces back and forth between coherent and almost comatose and it confuses Will. As Will unravels the cause of Elliot’s apparent illness it clashes with his beliefs and it may cost him his life.

I do love a good story about soul mates, even more so when a new twist is introduced. Magic and mayhem mixed with some hot sweaty sex, yes please! The core of this story is an age-old belief in the Wiccan culture, the use of magic when it comes to personal gain. I myself am fascinated with Wicca and witchcraft as well as the afterlife. Erno has taken all these elements and added in the soul mates twist and the hatred homosexuals have had to deal with for centuries. This book is a little bit of The Skeleton Key and a little bit of Charmed, but with gay men. I loved it!!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*

http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com

Everyone Loves A Wedding by Chris Owen

18928538Title: Everybody Loves A Wedding

Series:  N/A

Author: Chris Owen

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (69 pages)

Publisher: Torquere Press (November 20th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:
♥♥♥♥♥5

Blurb: Spencer is more than happy to stand up with his twin sister when she gets married, and accepts the role of maid of honor without hesitation. He’s determined to plan the best wedding shower ever, mostly because his other sisters assume he won’t be able to, and he’s focused on giving his twin the party of her dreams. Mostly focused. When he’s not thinking about cakes, tea sets, flowers, and tulle, he’s entirely caught up by thinking about Dean, the best man. Lucky for him, Dean is equally caught. But in the face of siblings, parents, small children, miles of ribbon, and enough booze for four bachelor parties, do the two of them have what it takes to make it all the way to the alter?


Previously published in Family Matters from Torquere Press.

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4076

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: It’s a cute, sweet, funny, and sexy tale!

Spencer’s sister gets engaged, leaving Spencer the last single sibling left. The night of that wonderful unveiling there is a hot, sexy, guest, Dean, who seems to fit right in with the whole family and draws Spencer in like a magnet!

The sexual encounters are hot, spontaneous, and filled with a whole lotta dominate Dean! And yes, Spencer proves a man can pull off maid of honor with skills to spare!

Enjoyable, fun, feel good read!

Bonded Broken by Amber Kell

18363363Title: Bonded Broken

Series: Thresl Chronicles #4

Author: Amber Kell

Genre: Sci-Fi / Shifters

ISBN: 978-1-78184-477-9

Length: Novella (101 pages)

Publisher: Totally Bound (October 4th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Book four in the Thresl Chronicles

Friln had always counted on his lover to be there when things go wrong. But when one brief moment of death breaks his bond with his Thresl mate, he loses the only thing in the world he needs to make him happy.

For the past ten years, Friln, the king’s Captain of the Guard, has lived with, and loved his Thresl mate, Nelrin. When an assassination attempt catches Friln in the crossfire, he is killed. In the brief moment before he’s revived, the bond to his lover is shattered.

At Friln’s death, Nelrin loses everything. Bereft of the only person he’s ever loved, Nelrin turns back into his cat form and runs away. Unfortunately, he falls into the hands of a pair of scientists who have different plans than redemption for the Thresl race.

Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/bonded-broken

Review: Oh damn, I think this is the best one of the series right after Soldier Mine. It was definitely better at plot solidity, better at action/romance balance, and how they unraveled. I remember the pace for the previous two was a bit hectic, not allowing much space to come to terms with the event and I was pleasantly surprised to see a complete lack of those flaws for this installment.

So, back to story; remember the King’s Captain of the Guard, Friln, and his mate Nelrin? Guess what, Friln dies in the line of duty. So here, we have immediately action, agony, and suspense, because there is already an established ten-year relationship between Friln and Rin, and when Friln dies the bond breaks. We are thrown at the maddening pain and agony of a mate left behind. Unfortunately, the unbearable intensity of emotions that should have reached us didn’t quite make it. And though we witnessed Rin transforming back to his Thresl form to survive the pain and madness, the gravity of this emotional state didn’t affect us as much leaving us a bit detached. And simply continue reading with perhaps a curiosity at what’s going to happen next.

The plot picks up at that point and crazy scientists introduce themselves with crazy/horrifying plans for Thresl genocide, Rin becomes an experiment lab rat, Friln recovers only to find out his missing a ten years bond, nearly goes crazy with pain, and goes after his mate. And we have a race of lovely events that keep you on your toes as a whole back-story unravels and preps you for the next installment while giving you a story well worth reading.

Now, I felt so sorry for Friln. I honestly believed at some point that Ms. Kell would be the sadistic author and have him killed a couple of times more. I mean, he gets shot, he gets captured by scientist (when he goes after Rin), he gets poisoned, and finally he gets bombed. Thank God, he got a nice ending because literally the entire Universe owned him that much after all, he went through.

And as I said I loved this book, it was well written, the plot well thought and engaging, the pace while fast allowed for coping and absorbing the facts, and the romance was lovely and quite passionate for a well-established relationship. I do believe the fans of the series will love this one as much as I did.

Two things I’d like to add. First, Ms. Kell is killing us with the little tidbits she’s giving us about Saint. Honestly, I can’t wait for his story and I feel like a parrot repeating it with every new installment I get to review. Bring him on already!!!

Second, there has been a question I’ve always wanted to ask but somehow always forgot. If Thresls bond with humans and they have their human form from then on, how do they breed? We’ve seen this species only on a male-male bond, but I just wonder, to the female bear a child in her in its feral form or as a human fetus? Is it human and changes to a cuddling kitty after it’s born or is it a kitty straight from the start? And does it shows how fascinated I am with this species or do I need to take this to the next level?

 

Fusion by Posy Roberts

FusionLGTitle: Fusion

Series: North Star: Book Two

Author: Posy Roberts

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (300 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (September 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:
♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb: How do you tell your friends and family you’ve fallen in love with a man when they’ve only ever known you as straight? How do you explain to your kids that you loved their mother very much, but your new partner is your best friend from high school?

Kevin Magnus must figure it out while trying to build a relationship with Hugo Thorson, whose bigger than life, out-and-proud drag queen persona is simply too big to be contained in a closet—even for the time it takes Kevin to come up with an explanation for his kids and Erin, his soon-to-be ex-wife.

But Erin faces an even bigger obstacle—one that shakes the entire family to the core. When she unexpectedly turns to Hugo, they form a connection that forces Hugo to grow up and offers Kevin the chance to become the kind of father he wants to be. Despite the coming complications, they’ll all benefit from a fortunate side effect: it becomes clear that Hugo is very much a part of this unconventional family.

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4374

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: I read this story from the perspective of someone who lost her mother to cancer, discovered at stage four, that took her life fast and ugly. I cared for her at home until the moment she died in my arms. I know what the decision is like to take care of a loved one with a terminal illness and a short prognosis. It’s not really a decision. You do it, because the alternative would be even more painful, even more damaging to one’s emotions. So I totally understood Kevin’s decision to take care of Erin.

The title, Fusion, seems to be to be descriptive of how they become a family, how Kevin and Hugo become a stronger couple, forced together, permanently bound through the heat and pressure of this life changing experience. This is a tough and self-sacrificing choice that both Kevin and separately Hugo have made. Something like this takes guts and dedication for Hugo. He could have walked away. He could have simplified his life, focused on himself and his career, and saved a ton of awkwardness, heartache, and strain. But he quickly becomes my favorite character because he does not, he befriends Erin, he gives her the greatest gift anyone ever could. He allows her to die with the assurances that her children will be loved, safe, and cared for in her absence. I’ve got tears on the edge of my eyelashes as I type that comment, but it is so true.

The moments of respite written in for Kevin and Hugo is also supremely important to anyone caring for an ill loved one. Because we are no good to each other if, we’re weary beyond functioning in a healthy way. I’m glad they got their breaks, their isolation, their alone time to focus on their relationship. The only thing that threw me for a loop, though it seemed to work, was the night swimming scene between Erin, Kevin and Hugo, erotic yes, uncomfortable yes, a bit odd…glad she left the water when she did!

Anyhow, there is so much packed into this story, I could go on and on, but I’m glad it was told. It’s difficult material to write about but Posy did a great job! It’s honest and I have the feeling, written from an experienced perspective. A surprising, yet bolstering turn of events from book one. I’m eager for the next book!

Duke Betrayed by Amber Kell

18620760Title: Duke Betrayed

Series: Thresl Chronicles #5

Author: Amber Kell

Genre: Sci-Fi / Paranormal

ISBN: 9781781848401

Length: Novella (93 pages)

Publisher: Totally Bound (November 15th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: 3.5~4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: This is book five in the The Thresl Chronicles series.

When Duke Hellbur is accused of treason against his people, he bonds with medic Balaze to keep his human form and prove his innocence.

When Duke Hellbur is accused of smuggling Thresls and selling them off to interested buyers, he undertakes a trip to prove his innocence. In order to retain his humanity, Hellbur bonds with a medic named Balaze…who didn’t exactly give his assent to the binding of their souls.

Balaze admired the duke whenever he visited the castle, but finding someone attractive and wanting to be theirs for eternity aren’t the same thing. After surviving the death of his first Thresl mate, Balaze isn’t exactly eager to go through that pain again. However, the duke doesn’t take no for answer.

Those who are guilty will have to be uncovered if the two men ever plan on finding peace with each other. When Hellbur and Balaze go off on an interplanetary adventure, can they find common ground or will their enemies tear them apart?

Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/duke-betrayed

Review: The suspense continues in the Thresl Chronicles Series and book five Duke Betrayed picks up where the previous left us with Duke Hellbur being in the hospital waiting to get better so that King Vohne can interrogate him about his alleged betrayal. As we already know, Hellbur suppressed his change back to feral when his mate died in the Great Purge by using drugs. The absence of them during his healing causes Hell to shift back into his Thresl form when in the hospital and under the care of Balaze. Upon regaining consciousness, Hell understands that he has no chance of proving his innocence in this form and that the people who framed him are now free to take advantage of his people.

I must admit that when I read the blurb I was a bit disappointed, thinking that I’d be reading about yet another forced mating, same way it happened with Prince Blaine, however this is not the case. While indeed the Duke is in a precarious place, being free from the drugs allows his feral instincts to come free and he smells his mate, recognizes him in Balaze. The relationship between the two is shady of course; Balaze thinks the Duke only claimed him to keep his human form, and Hell on the other hand has been so many years without a mate that he doesn’t know how to make his new one feel at easy. While Balaze’s unease comes through their link, Hell doesn’t really know how to deal with it. It doesn’t help that his previous mate was a soldier and their relationship was not one of many affections.

It is very interesting to see the Thresl bond in this peculiar pair and I believe the author managed to do a really good job showing us that no matter how “fated” you may be, no matter if you have a direct link with your other half, you always need to work on a relationship to make it work. Both men’s character comes forward and I had a blast getting to know Hell and Balaze. The spymaster became very approachable when it was clear that no matter how strong a hold he had on his network of spies he missed the conspiracy right under his nose. He became a dear one when he finally let loose and vulnerable, admitting the need of his mate in more ways than one and literally depending on him. Balaze on the other hand showed us his true making, not only his soft and sweet side, his caretaking streak and his empathy, but also a fierceness when it came to doing whatever necessary to help his beloved.

Between adjusting in their new bond and running as fugitives in order to find the people responsible for the threat on the Thresl’s life we were granted with yet another action plot that had us on our toes and constantly wondering who might be behind this conspiracy. Yes, the person who took direct advantage of Hell’s name was pretty obvious from the beginning, but there are more and they run deeper, making this series a non-stop addiction and literally causing a craving for more. On that aspect, I feel the author has a strong hold on her goal to keep her fans pinning for the series with an unwavering interest.

Of course there was the little bit that caused my eye roll, because in almost every installment there is a person who wants the Thresl for his mate, threats to kill the established mate in order to take advantage of the Thresl. I feel it’s a constant that I read every time and I’ve even come to expect it so much so that it almost doesn’t make an impression on me anymore. Still it’s a thorn on the plot when the villain is so predictable.

The highlight of the story as always for me at least was Saint. Dear author, just kill me! When I started reading the series I admit the Thresl as a species were the great allure, following by Kres (you can’t deny his appeal, his almost feral possessiveness), but too fast I became enthralled with Saint and looking around at the fan-base of the series I’m not alone. Saint is a creature that simply mesmerize you and following him around has been a blast, a frustrating one but awesome nonetheless. The book ends with the nicest surprise ever. It literally had me scream and for the love of all that’s sacred, please, please don’t take long to bring his story on the shelves.

For those of you that don’t know the series I urge you to get a look into them, for the fans of this world I don’t have to say much beside, go grab it and enjoy yet another well-delivered installment. Strongly recommended!

 

Inside Out by Andrew Grey

InsideOutLGTitle:  Inside Out

Author: Andrew Grey 

Genre:   Contemporary Romance

Length:  Novel, 200 pages

Publisher:  Dreamspinner Press (November 25th 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate to Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   Former mercenary Bull Krebbs now heads up security at his nightclub in Harrisburg, PA. Working the door night after night, he’s seen it all. Though tough on the outside, he’s a little hurt that people find him unapproachable. Then he pulls a cute twink out of line to perform a random search, and he’s surprised when the guy giggles and squirms.

Zach Spencer, graphic artist, twink, and seriously ticklish, isn’t intimidated by Bull. He’s in awe, and when Bull saves Zach from being trampled on the dance floor, Zach finds his inspiration for the superhero in his graphic novel.

Soon Zach wants more and makes his move by asking Bull on a date. Though small, he has a backbone of steel. He’ll need it—their happily ever after is thwarted at every turn, including by Bull’s interloping mother showing up unannounced and enemies from Bull’s past threatening to pull him to the other side of the world.

Product Link:  http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4356

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Let me start by saying that if you think this book is BDSM or about “Bears” think again, never judge a book by its cover. TeeHeeHee

Bull Krebbs is the very large and in charge bouncer at the local gay club. He and his business partner, Harry, pride themselves in running a drug free and trouble-free club. Bull has a no-nonsense attitude about him, and that coupled with his appearance make him very unapproachable. It usually works in his favor at the club, as he need only look at someone about to start a fight and they quickly change their mind. In his private life, not so much. That is until he meets Zach. The adorable twink that isn’t scared to say what he thinks, or scared of Bull.

Zach Spencer is a graphic designer who has been inspired by the big man, in more ways than one. He comes up with the idea for a comic book and uses Bull as inspiration for his hero. Zach can see beyond the exterior package, and although he does like the wrapping, he likes what he finds on the inside as well. As this unlikely pair get to know each other, Inside and Out, the attraction grows into something more permanent. But an overbearing mother, a psychotic uncle and an old frenemie threaten their newly laid foundation.

I love how Grey took two overworked clichés (Never judge a book by its cover, and Opposites attract) and twisted them into his own brand of love story. Bull is not even remotely the man you’d think he would be, neither is Zach for that matter. Bull is so gentle and loving with Zach, showing him that who and what he is, is okay… that it’s beautiful. And Zach definitely holds his own with the big man, his gentle giant. When they kiss and when they make love it’s not about Bull taking charge and Zach being compliant. You can see the dominance in Bull but he never dominates Zach, and that is what makes him so attractive. Zach is not afraid to show or tell Bull what he wants, and then proceed to take it. They are perfectly imperfect, and balance each other out… perfectly.

Fast paced and extremely engaging love story with the perfect balance of strength and emotions. The characters are validated by their differences and they bring clarity to each other’s lives. The chemistry is off the hook and the storyline is intriguing.

Three reasons to grab a copy of Inside Out. 1/ its Andrew Grey 2/ that glorious cover 3/ its Andrew Grey!

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*

http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com