Family Bonds by Caitlin Ricci

4252Familybonds510w-430x645Title: Family Bonds

Series: Pine Hollow Wolves, Book 3

Author: Caitlin Ricci

Length: Novella (55 Pages)

Publisher: Extasy Books (November 1st, 2013)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: Liam and Travis are ready to take the next step in their relationship. But is everyone happy about it?

Travis and Liam have a seemingly perfect life with a beautiful daughter that they both love and a pack that accepts them and their family. Now is the time for them to move forward and take the next big step in their relationship and Hannah has her own milestone to cross.

Product Link:  http://www.extasybooks.com/family-bonds/

Review: This is a pretty good book, yet it is not as long as I would like. It has such a great story line that amazes me. Liam and Travis are mates, who at one time had a hard time being allowed to stay together. All because of Travis’s special daughter, Hannah. Hannah is four and has the ability to see the wolves inside of each shifter.

I love how they are so protective to each other and to Hannah. They have so much love and passion for each other, that it makes you want what they have. I for one would love to be the receiver of what they feel for each other. This is what I would call a lovey dovey story kind of sappy and touching.

To understand this story better you would need to read the series in order. It makes it easier to figure out the bits and pieces that seem to be missing, if you were just reading this on its own. The sex between them is tender, loving, and so dang hot. They can’t seem to stand to be apart even for a small bit of time, but when they get together it is smoking hot.

Even if there aren’t a lot of sexual parts in the book, you can just tell by the way they react to each other. The way they glance at each other and cannot seem to keep their eyes off each other. The caring way they are with Hannah shows that they are wonderful parents and their protective reactions when they think she can be hurt. I really liked the way the story unfolded.

Learning to Live by Diana DeRicci

18489559Title: Learning To Live

Series: The Arbor Heights Series

Author: Diana DeRicci

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (39K)

Publisher: MLR Press (September 13th, 2013)
Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:
♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts

Blurb: The Great Kitchen Flood begins one man’s journey to find confidence and love.
Avery Storey has bought a house in a conscious effort to be more independent. Right before he moves in, the kitchen pipes malfunction. Lucky for him, one of his new neighbors is the same man Avery has begun to warm up to through his teller job. Gratefully, AJ comes to the rescue, because that’s what neighbors do. A little romance blooms between the two men. Unfortunately, AJ blows his chance when he learns Avery is thirteen years his junior. Hurting for the sweet man across the street, he’s forced to face what his life would be like without Avery at all, because being neighbors alone just would not be enough.

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=DRLRNLIV

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: Poor Avery has a big challenge ahead of himself, new home ownership issues that include bad plumbing and a to do list of home repairs he does not feel confident enough to do himself. And a hot neighbor that after a very hot and steamy encounter gets frightened away because of Avery’s age and innocence.

If only AJ could understand that Avery might not be confident in his handyman skills, but he’ knows what he wants in love, and the age difference means nothing to him. A series of confrontations and misunderstandings ensues, but will fate bring these two back, or perhaps jealousy over a secret admirer?

You’ll just have to read and find out if these two stubborn men can come back together again.

Sunset Temptations by C.R. Moss

17935001Title:Sunset Temptations

Series:  A 1Night Stand Story

Author:C.R. Moss

Genre:Contemporary MMF Ménage

Length: Short (11K)

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥ 2 and a half Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: Can wishes come true in just one night Roommates, Ivy Tramonto and Kiran Emerson, are heading out for their blind dates set up through a prestigious matchmaking service. Neither know anything about the men they’re to meet at a charity event being held in a mountain resort, but they’re looking forward to the adventure and forgetting about all their problems for an evening.

Resort owner, Robert Bourbon, doesn’t have time to play the field, especially when he wants a polyamorous relationship. After requesting the services of Madame Eve, he’s matched with the perfect pair and believes life can’t get any better. Everything seems to be going great, until a mistake one of them made comes back to haunt them. Will they make it through the dilemma or will they miss out on having their true desires granted?

Purchase Link: http://www.decadentpublishing.com/product_info.php?products_id=788&osCsid=256d2bieer73lcr8drk1kb8fl2

Review: Ivy and Kiran are roommates and friends with benefits. They have lost their jobs, and will soon be out of a place to live. Ivy is going to a charity event her with her cousin. She has a blind date that is a mystery; Kiran is going also he got a blind date through a match making service, though Ivy finds he borrowed the money from a bad Loan shark. Four people will be granted their wish, she of course is wishing for money for a place to live, and Kiran is wishing for money to pay off the loan.

I found the story a bit confusing and very predictable. I do have to say I loved Kiran a lot. He is one hot and cocky character. I didn’t care for Ivy she was, sort of, just there. I think the story would have been really hot without her in it at all. To me she was just fodder for a threesome that also fell a bit bland with her tossed in. The scenes with just Robert and Kiran were hot and sexy. I think this would have been much improved by just leaving Ivy out.

Corey by Toni Griffin

f097b3baebae9eca5980bc20c02728bc.image.300x450Title: Corey

Series: The Atherton Pack 03

Author: Toni Griffin

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (144pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (23rd November 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Ethan Stone grew up in the foster care system, moving from house to house, never having a home of his own. When he meets his mate, Corey Jones, he’s overjoyed at the prospect of finally getting the one thing he wants more than anything.

Corey’s had his heart broken in the past and vowed never to go down that road again, sticking to one-night stands only. It’s a lonely way to live but it’s better than the soul crushing devastation he’s felt previously. When he meets Ethan Corey does the only thing he can in order to protect his heart, he runs.

Ethan won’t give up his chance at love and a home that easily though, and will a costly mistake cause the entire pack to be put in danger?     

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/corey-ebook-p-60424.html     

Review: This story is part of a series and is best read in order. Ethan has been in the Atherton pack for only a short time. He has hopes of finding his dream in the future but is happy for the time being and then his dream walks through the door. Corey has had his heart broken in the past and does not intend to fall in love again. But, fighting the mating pull is harder than he thought especially when his mate is pulling out all the stops to woo him. Ethan knows that they can be blissfully happy together but first he has to convince Corey to give him a chance, even when it seems that fate is putting obstacles in their path. 

So we meet two head strong shifters who are both determined to have their own way, it makes for an interesting story with some heart searching but with little angst. Ethan has been alone for many years and has only ever wanted his own family, he looks forward to the day he will meet his mate and is so happy when he finds him in his new pack. Corey doesn’t want to find love again, his last attempt left him heartbroken, and he knows he wouldn’t survive another failed relationship, so when he meets his mate he does everything in his power to ignore the man even as his wolf strains his control. When the two men come to an agreement it is with hope on one side and doubt on the other. 

I did enjoy this story and loved the dance between Corey and Ethan as they both try to get their own way. The story really is mainly about their relationship dance and the gaining of trust. But, it also has Tommy and Ben as they come to the end of their pregnancy. While I liked both Corey and Ethan, I found Ethan to be too confident and aggressive in his pursuit of Corey, yes, they were mates and Corey was trying to deny their bond but Ethan overrode what Corey wanted and, to me, became creepy in his pursuit. Corey is heart sore and doesn’t trust that he won’t be hurt again so you can understand him being wary even with his fated mate, there should a been a gentle courtship (yes Ethan did know why Corey was wary) to suit the situation. 

There’s lots of sexual tension and some humorous situations, we also see some diva action from Tommy and Ben losing it, the threat that comes to the pack doesn’t seem to be that bad in the grand scheme of things, but carelessness could bring deep trouble. 

I recommend this if you enjoy shifters finding their true mates and having to work for it, learning to be patient and accepting what you can get, accepting love and opening your heart, and giving the man, you come to love a chance. 

 

 

Unnatural Means by T.C. Mill

unnaturalmeans_3d_500Title: Unnatural Means

Author: T.C. Mill

Genre: Erotic Fantasy

ISBN: 9781627570176

Length: Short Story (27 pages)

Publisher: Storm Moon Press (June 23rd, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Confessor Isak is charged with the task of forcing Sain to confess his sins of murder and witchcraft before inevitable execution. Torturing in the name of the Divine is difficult enough, but the process is nothing new to him, and he is confident he can affect Sain’s salvation. This time is different, though, when he begins to feel Sain’s seductive magic takes hold of him. Suddenly, Isak isn’t at all sure it will be Sain who breaks under pressure to find release.

Note: This story was previously published in the Like it or Not anthology.

Product Link: http://www.stormmoonpress.com/books/Unnatural-Means.aspx

Review: As much as I like fantasy stories, witchcraft and a plot with dubious consent, I believe this one didn’t hold much interest for me. The plot was fairly transparent; you know from the blurb and the beginning of this short what will happen. So as I tried to let myself enjoy the ride, (see I don’t really mind knowing the plot beforehand) I found it a bit bland, a bit flat.

Sain is a witch accused of murdering his Master by unnatural means, aka magic, Isak is a Witch-Confessor tasked to salvage his eternal soul, and the logical step therefore is either Isak breaks him in the process, or Sain bewitches him and gets to escape his life.

There are things that made me raise an eyebrow here. For example, Sain never confesses or denies killing his former master. Through half-truths, we understand he is guilty. He also proceeds to tell Isak that he is what he is and can’t ask for forgiveness about it, it would be like apologizing for living and breathing (yes that part I liked). What made me wonder was Isaks’ entire behavior and his seduction that never really materialized. The creepy pervert in me was so set upon  reading this story as it promised dark and vile tortures heavily linked to the Spanish Inquisition’s ones what with the Pear of Anguish making a slight appearance. I was frankly disappointed that so many wicked devices were introduced yet never made it to the spotlight, besides the little lash. And even when the lashing was performed the emotional state, the intensity in which it should have left me as a reader, the agony for the poor witch, was never there. In general, this story failed to make a connection with me at all times. I failed to feel the eroticism of the seduction, I failed to see Isak’s torment at losing touch with his faith, and I failed to see the agony and desperation of imminent death and/or torture, the aftermath of it. When finally Isak makes his mind and acts upon his decision, I felt no relief, no joy, or even comprehend the why on earth he’d do such a stupid thing, for his feelings never felt strong enough to require such thing.

So overall, this was a bit of a stilted read that could have been much more. I didn’t dislike it, but I didn’t love it either.

 

The Risqué Blue by Adrianna Dane

18516096Title: The Risqué Blue

Series:  N/A

Author: Adrianna Dane

Genre: Contemporary/Mystery/BDSM/D/s

Length: Novella (105 pages)

Publisher: Loose Id (October 7th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating:
♥♥♥♥♥4.5 Hearts

Blurb: One man is searching for his past, the other needs to find his future.

Johnny Lee Paradise, owner of the Savannah blues club, Risqué Blue, and Prieste V. Beaumont, an L.A. film producer, live different lives on opposite sides of the country. Both are alone, both hide secret desires and haunting fears. One spring night, as a fluke snowstorm blankets Savannah, with a turn of the tarot card Madam Fate changes the destiny for both of these men.

Prieste is looking for his long-lost stepsister; Johnny is looking for a night’s sexy diversion, when Prieste arrives late one night at the Risqué Blue. Amidst the magic of Savannah, tragic ghosts of the past, Prieste’s search for closure, and Johnny’s newfound taste for passionate submission–and a good erotic spanking provided by the more dominant Prieste–will love find a way to save these two men from the unhappy chains of the past? Or will their fears part them forever? In Savannah, at the Risqué Blue, anything is possible, even perhaps, finding lasting and healing love.

Product Link: http://www.loose-id.com/the-risque-blue.html#product_tabs_description

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: I love mystery, and a mysterious atmosphere. The city of Savannah is the perfect setting for this bluesy, succulent story, very film noir in its beginning. The author does an excellent job of setting the mood, stormy weather, blues singers, and nightclubs.

While this is a BDSM or D/s story, that content is kind of poured in nice and slow like a sip of good whisky down your throat, it burns hot, and fans the flames between Prieste and Johnny. By the end of the story, the D/s knocks these two into a sexual haze. It’s fun to read through all the small vignettes in this book from the old-time movie theaters, ghosts, and the hole-in-the wall nightclubs complete with absinthe and secrecy. Even the support characters in this story kept my rapt attention, especially Christella, my heart poured out for her.

I’m also very curious about the “adoptive family” that rescued Prieste. His sister sure is interesting. I find myself wanting to know about the self-made family that he’s part of. I’m sure it’s a family full of characters that will feed new stories in what I hope will become a series!

If you like your kinks with a bit of domination, and a good mysterious story, this a great read, you won’t be disappointed.

Salting the Earth by Heidi Belleau and Violetta Vane

18112785Title: Salting the Earth

Series: Layers of the Otherworld, # 0.7

Author: Heidi Belleau & Violetta Vane

Genre: Dark Fantasy / Erotica / Dubious Consent

ISBN: 9781627570152

Length: Short Story (38 pages)

Publisher: Storm Moon Press (June 23rd, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Ronan’s only choice when he suspects his sister has been taken by the fairies is to brave the path between the worlds to bargain for her return. He knows well the old tales and folk magic necessary to open the way, but he is wholly unprepared for what comes after. Because his impetuousness draws the interest of ruthless King Finnbheara, who intends to extract a price for his cooperation that may be too high for Ronan to pay.

(Originally published in the anthology Like It or Not from Storm Moon Press)

Product Link: http://www.stormmoonpress.com/books/Salting-the-Earth.aspx

Review: Oh My God! What a freaking, creepy, psychedelic read. Loved it!
Yeah, I know there must be something wrong with me, because I simply adore these kinds of books.

Ah, what can I say about this book. Well first of you must really like dub-con stories because Ronan here has gotten himself into some serious trouble. Believing that his sister Rose is forced to serve the fairies and getting up his mind to save her from her fate, he literally barges into the unknown.

Demanding things from Gods never brought anyone results, but going all cocky like around sadistic child-like immortals is bound to get you into more trouble you’ve ever thought possible. After all, why should a God bow to a mere mortal’s demands?

No, this is not a romantic read where some immortal forcibly takes a mortal and yet falls in love with him in the end with them living happily ever after. I’m not so sure there is a happy for now end for this shorty. It definitely is the run-as-fast-as-you-can kind. The character here is tricked to believe the fairies have his sister, then forced to endure for his “sister’s” sake believing he’s trading his self for her, told that his notions are false and that the fairies never had the sister in first place, mistrusting them and thinking they lie until that very sister verifies that story… Horror I tell, this story should be shelved in the horror category. Because when poor Ronan gets his head in order he sees how he’s been played, but beyond that, he is now linked forever with the fairy world. Never again, will he be able to sever ties with the Gods that come to him every single nigh, no matter how far or fast he runs…

Yes, a splendid story indeed, and I gave way not all of it so much so that if you say there are spoilers here that will be the understatement of the century, but it really matters. It doesn’t matter, because no matter how accurately I tell you the entire story, I’ll never be able to produce the feeling you get when reading this story. The anxiety I felt all the time, the nail-biting feelings, the hot, carnal, and deeply dark erotic scenes, the gripping writing that has you tethered and shackled on you chair while you literally inhale the read…

In short if you’re even slightly fond of the genre, grab this short, it’s delicious and so wicked, it will make a fantastic fast read for your evening.

Hard'n Deep by Vona Logan

81kkExm5MBL._SL1425_Title: Hard’n Deep

Series: Hard, Hot’n Sweaty Series, Book 2

Author: Vona Logan

Length: Novella (88 Pages)

Publisher: MLR Press, LLC. (November 7th, 2013)

Heat Level: OMG Hot

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts

Blurb: The past threatens to tear Aidan and Matt apart, but when Matt takes off, Aidan will stop at nothing to bring him back.

Aidan and Matt had conquered the mountain, which almost killed them both, and their relationship is secure. Or is it? Without warning, the past inevitably rears its ugly head and the sparks begin to fly. While Aidan knows exactly what he wants, Matt’s fierce independence, and insecurities threaten to tear them apart. Aidan sets out to prove to Matt he isn’t going anywhere and Matt needs to face and conquer the ghosts from his past. Does Aidan have what it takes to hold onto his man and will Matt allow himself to be loved?

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=VLHARDND

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I have always loved Vona Logan’s stories, and this one is right up there with my favorites. To start with, you should read the first book of this series. It makes it easier to know who the characters are and to see how they begin.

Matt and Aidan are so easy to fall in love with. You can tell right from the first paragraph that there is so much love between them. As with most true loves, they go through a rough patch, and Aiden has to show his hardheaded lover he is the only one he wants. The story line and plot is one of the tenderest and heart breaking I have had the pleasure to read.

Then there is the sex, and OMG the sex is hot and very passionate. Matt is the most loving person with a heart of gold, a heart that has been broken and healed by his lover. He has the same fears that many do, but has the strength to show his emotions. Aiden at one time had been straight and even married, met his match and falls in love. He shows his love to Matt in so many ways and when the times get hard, he proves his love in the ways that count. He goes after his man and wins.

I love this story and the characters. I am proud to have this book in my library and will look forward to reading it many times over. It is a story that makes me want to sit in front of a fire, with a cup of hot chocolate and indulge myself.

Sparks & Drops by Susan Laine

Sparks&DropsLGTitle: Sparks & Drops

Series: The Wheels of Mysteries 01

Author: Susan Laine

Genre: Contemporary, Humor, Mystery

Length: Novella (170pgs)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (20th November 2013)

Heat Level: Nil

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥ 2½ Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie 

Blurb: Magic is in the air when Gus Goodwin, a pagan shopkeeper and owner of the Four Corners’ occult shop, meets a Niall Valentine, a mysterious PI investigating the disappearance of a local witch named Joy. What starts out as harmless flirting and information gathering soon turns into a partnership, with both men determined to solve the case. 

Then bodies begin to pile up. Someone is using fire and water to kill witches associated with Joy, and it is up to Niall and Gus to find out what’s going on. But when their friendship blossoms into something else, the unknown dangers looming ahead become even more frightening. If they can’t solve the murders soon, they’re going to get themselves killed.

Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4379 

Review: Gus is the owner of Four Corners’ occult shop and is intrigued by a new browsing customer, sharing information about the Wicca practice, Gus soon learns that Niall is a private investigator looking into the disappearance of a local witch and Gus soon finds himself helping the PI with his investigation. Niall is good at what he does but first he needs to learn what he can about the circles that Joy (the missing witch) moved in, finding himself with an assistant Niall soon finds himself on the outskirts of a murder investigation as Joy’s friends are being picked off one by one. Niall & Gus soon find themselves heading for unknown danger and their friendship is quickly turning into something more, but they both have to survive and solve the case before they can see where their friendship is going.

Okay so I wasn’t too impressed with this story and I think that was all down to Gus, because I took a dislike to him early on. Niall is hired to find a missing woman and his trail leads him to Gus’ shop, Gus finds himself drawn to Niall and ends up offering to help him navigate the Wicca world. Together they investigate and find themselves in the middle of something that they never saw coming. Niall is very open-minded as he learns the different practices and at first welcomes Gus’ help but then as the case becomes serious he wants Gus to step back but Gus has his own idea’s. Gus is very accepting of everything except when he feels someone is disparaging his chosen religion. He is also headstrong, so when Niall tells him to step back, Gus does not intend to leave the case alone.     

Niall was my favorite character because he truly was open-minded about what he learned and saw. He was also very patient and pretty easygoing. Gus said he was open-minded but the second someone (usually Niall) said something he didn’t agree with he would start preaching and lecturing, he also saw attacks on his religion where none were. The case is interesting but slightly bizarre, especially with the way that things progress, as in the culprit and the reason behind the murders. I could only surmise that the culprit was a complete psychopath!

Learning about the Wicca practice was interesting and I never knew there were so many different traditions but you can clearly see the research Susan Laine has put into this book. The secondary characters were well written and really added to the story. I did enjoy the story and liked how it progressed, I liked that Gus and Niall are at the very start of their relationship and we see them as they work around the case and their attraction, but as I said earlier the reason of the mystery was kind of senseless and I really disliked Gus. 

I recommend this to those who love Wicca mystery stories, solving murders, tearing head first into danger, seeing the beginning of a new relationship and a happy ending. 

 

 

A Gift of Stories by George Seaton

71VDucHJtEL._SL1425_Title: A Gift of Stories

Series: The Average Joe

Author: George Seaton

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (50 pages)

Publisher: MLR Press (Oct 13th, 2013)

Heat Level: None

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb: The worth of campfire tales is that they eventually provoke truths from those telling the tales, as well as those assembled to listen.

A rite of summer brings together old Joe and his grandnieces and grandnephews to the Flat Top Wilderness of Colorado where tales are told over the warmth of a campfire. Through the telling, though, secrets emerge that will affect them all; and the magic of the night will remain them all forever.

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

Review: Joe keeps his great nieces and nephews each summer for a short time. He sits them around the campfire and tells them stories. Two are now teens and going through life changes and are a bit less than attentive. 

I really liked this story. It is basically just a life lesson story with no real plot or action. It’s heart-warming and sweet.

If you like stories of campfire tales, life lessons, long-lasting relationship, finding courage and a lovely heart-warming, sweet story this is for you.

Abigail Roux's Shock & Awe Spotlight Blog Hop Contest & Review

ShockAwe_TourBanner1*glances around and tiptoes across cyberspace* Hey boys and girls, Portia’s been lax again and didn’t fasten the chains properly so here I am bringing you another Blog Tour 😉  Now I know you must have all wet your panties when you saw ‘Shock & Awe’ in the title and I have to tell you you have every right to get a bit damp with excitement, it’s Nick and Kelly with just a glimpse of Zane and Ty, but damn is there anything better. Now it’s very simple, just leave a comment and Riptide Publishing along with Abigail Roux will chose a winner from all the comments left throughout the Shock & Awe Blog Tour, so you will be in for a chance to win some super cool prizes (I am so trying for a t-shirt *winks*) So without further ado here’s my review and Abigail’s contest *blows kisses* Huggles Pixie

Shock&Awe_400x600Title: Shock & Awe

Series: Sidewinder 01

Author: Abigail Roux

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (83pgs)

Publisher: Riptide Publishing (11th November 2013)

Heat: Explicit

Heart: Black heart (cards)Black heart (cards)Black heart (cards)Black heart (cards) 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: After barely surviving a shootout in New Orleans, Sidewinder medic Kelly Abbott has to suffer through a month of recovery before he can return home to Colorado. He’s not surprised when fellow Sidewinder Nick O’Flaherty stays with him in New Orleans. Nor is he surprised when Nick travels home with him to help him get back on his feet—after all, years on the same Marine Force Recon team bonded the men in ways that only bleeding for a brother can. He’s very surprised, though, when Nick humors his moment of curiosity and kisses him.

Nick knows all of Kelly’s quirks and caprices, so the kiss was a low-risk move on his part . . . or so he thought. But what should’ve been a simple moment unleashes a flood of confusing emotions and urges that neither man is prepared to address.

Now, Kelly and Nick must figure out what they mean to each other—friends and brothers in arms, or something even deeper?—before the past can come back to ruin their tenuous future.

With bonus story Bait & Switch.

Purchase Link: http://riptidepublishing.com/titles/shock-awe

Review: This story & series is a spin-off from the Cut & Run series and the timeline starts just after the events in Touch & Geaux. Ah oh yippee!! It’s time for Nick to find the beginning of his ever after and it comes from a very surprising direction! With Kelly still recovering from his injuries Nick accompanies him home to take care of him, but Nick gets a surprise when Kelly asks for a kiss. Kelly knows Nick better than he has ever known any of his ex’s and after Nick’s confession to the Sidewinder team Kelly finds himself examining what he feels for his teammate, hoping to satisfy his curiosity he asks for a kiss and gets much more than he bargained for. Just as they begin to figure things out the past comes knocking at their door.

So we get a brief look into the Sidewinder team from the perspective of Nick and Kelly and we see a change in their relationship that can only be for the better. We see both men examining what they really feel for the other man and accepting that their feelings might be more than just the feelings of a comrade in arms or even brothers, they embrace the change between them with loads of sweaty sex but they hold back slightly from fully admitting the full extent of their feelings.

This story is a great look into the men that Ty calls friends, we see the loyalty they have for each other and the easy friendship they have even before they take it further. The story also connects to the ending in Touch & Geaux with a visit from the marines with us seeing what happens with Kelly and Nick, we also get to catch up with Ty and Zane briefly at the airport where Nick has to fast talking to do. In the bonus story Bait & Switch we meet up with Zane, Nick and Kelly when Nick is in the States for a flying visit, it is some time after Shock & Awe and we learn some details into what is happening to everyone and we see Nick and Kelly come to an agreement about their relationship.

Now I have got all that out of the way just let me express myself…. *squeal, happy dance, joyful jig, whoop* oh god it was soooooo good to see Nick get his happy going with Kelly and damn but they were hot! I loved this story for giving us a look at the Sidewinder guys and for giving us a peek into what was going on with Ty and Zane without giving much away. I loved how easily Kelly and Nick fell together but still held back a little and then when they finally have their heart to heart and admit what they really want from each other *sigh* it was so sweet edged with a touch of angst.

I recommend this to those who love men going after what they want, friends becoming lovers, admiting what you really want and grabbing hold of love with both hands.

ABOUT THE AUTHORShock & Awe Blog tour1

Abigail Roux was born and raised in North Carolina. A past volleyball star who specializes in sarcasm and painful historical accuracy, she currently spends her time coaching high school volleyball and investigating the mysteries of single motherhood. Any spare time is spent living and dying with every Atlanta Braves and Carolina Panthers game of the year. Abigail has a daughter, Little Roux, who is the light of her life, a boxer, four rescued cats who play an ongoing live-action variation of ‘Call of Duty’ throughout the house, a certifiable extended family down the road, and a cast of thousands in her head.

If you care to follow me more closely, you can find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr.

Contest:

In celebration of Nick and Kelly’s coming out, so to speak, I’ve got three of their Heart and Clover T-shirts for three lucky commenters. And I’ve got five sets of trading cards with original artwork and character  work-ups, something I intend to add new cards to every year, which makes this first year’s cards pretty important if you’re an obsessive  collector like I am.

Forbidden by Sandrine Gasq-Dion

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Title:  Forbidden (ARC review)

Series:  Assassin/Shifter series, Book #21

Author:  Sandrine Gasq-Dion         

Genre:  Paranormal Romance

Length:  Novel (128 pages)

Publisher:  Sandrine Gasq-Dion (November 22nd 2013)

Heat Level:  Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts 

Blurb:   Jesse Salvatore has had it. He’s the youngest of three brothers — and the only one born without the werewolf gene. Because he’s human, his brothers, Jaxon and Justice, treat him as if he’s helpless. They constantly battle deadly rogue wolves and won’t let him anywhere near the fight. When he meets Noah King, he knows he’s found his soulmate in the werewolf and soldier. Just as life seems to be brightening, big brother Justice forbids Jesse to see Noah. The two men sneak time together when they can, but it’s not enough. More than a year later, the rogues have targeted Jesse and Justice has no choice but to let Noah protect him.

Noah King has never been in love. One-night stands are more his style. But the first time he sees Jesse Salvatore, his world is flipped upside down by the hot blond-haired, green-eyed human. What’s not to love? Jesse is sweet, smart, gorgeous, and badass. Only one thing stands in their way: Justice Salvatore. When Jesse’s life is threatened, Noah is entrusted with keeping him safe.

Of course, no plan is ever foolproof, and a mission to protect one man changes the lives of many.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GOHU1TI

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Noah King has been in love with Jesse Salvatore since the first time he laid eyes on him. As the youngest Salvatore brother, and a human, he’s rarely left alone and strictly forbidden to date Noah who is a shifter. Jesse is a former Navy SEAL and no stranger to danger. He is beyond fed up with not just his brothers but Noah as well treating him as if he’s made of glass. Over the years, Jesse and Noah have managed a few stolen moments and when they finally kissed, sparks flew, like literally… the lights were flickering, and sparks were flying. Recent attacks by the rogue werewolves have brought them dangerously close to Jesse and the team now knows that they, the rogues, have targeted Jesse.

It takes a real man to admit when he’s wrong, and Justice Salvatore is real big man! With his attention already torn watching after the young human that has caught his eye, Skylar, he asks Noah to protect Jesse. With the assistance of an unpredictable ally, Noah and Jesse go into hiding. The journey they take isn’t just about self-preservation and protecting Jesse, it’s a journey of self-awareness as well. Both men learn more about each other as individuals and as a couple in just a few short days than they have in all the years they’ve known each other. And Jesse’s true nature is revealed when Noah is in mortal danger.

Can I just say it’s about damn time that we, fans of this series, got us some Jesse and Noah love! I have been rooting for this couple for about six books now I think. And let me just say, once these two get started, I don’t think even the fates could have stopped them. After all, they have a couple of years of pent-up sexual frustration to deal with. Again, Gasq-Dion managed to grab onto something fresh and add it to the storyline. Whatever pre-conceived notions you may have about these two as a couple, forget it, they will surprise you.

As per all the previous books in this series, there is a cameo appearance from several beloved characters. But something a little different I’ve noticed in the last three books, the main couple has the majority of the focus. I like that little shift in the writing from Gasq-Dion. I hope she continues to evolve and bring exciting, fresh new characters and backgrounds to the stories. I thought that I would be most anticipating Justice for Skylar, and while I’m anxious for that coupling, I’m really really looking forward to Killian and Stone now as well. Of course, there is still the Jaxon and Elijah story, and Matty and Kane.

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

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

The One by Hurri Cosmo

3931ad4b67ab15bc83bca8a901f084d4.image.300x450Title: The One

Author: Hurri Cosmo

Genre: Fantasy, Adventure

Length: Novel Plus (317pgs)

Publisher: Silver Publishing (16th November 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate – Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Pixie

Blurb: Hunter has trained all of his life to become a hero. Now he has his chance. A great evil has invaded the land and the royal seer has dreamed that there is only one man who can save them.

A Gathering Quest has been launched by the king to find the ‘one’ in the seer’s dream, the ‘one’ who will save them. Hunter has had dreams too, frightening dreams. For that reason, he eagerly heads to the castle to meet this seer to determine if he is indeed the ‘one’. But the seer disappears before Hunter reaches the castle. Now Hunter’s only choice is to launch his own quest to find the missing psychic. But the ever mischievous Tome, a man who drives Hunter crazy with his endless pursuit of being the best and his relentless acts of sexual harassment, somehow ends up handcuffed to him.

To make matters even worse, Tome insists now he will accompany Hunter on his quest–to protect him. Being handcuffed together, Hunter can hardly refuse. But how can Hunter save the world if he has to constantly battle a very determined Tome’s advances? More importantly, how can he save himself from falling for this man with the dazzling smile?  

Purchase Link: https://spsilverpublishing.com/the-one-ebook-p-60422.html  

Review: Hunter is a warrior and a great swordsman but he has dreams that foretell tragedy. When a Quest Gathering is called to find the ‘one’ who will save the kingdom, Hunter is eager to participate when he discovers the Seer is at the castle, maybe his disturbing dreams are connected to the horror the seer has foreseen. But the Seer disappears and Hunter sets off on his own quest to find the Seer but his friend/adversary Tome is determined to be the best and handcuffs himself to Hunter. Tome has more reasons to shackle himself to Hunter and is determined to finally shatter Hunter’s shell, so helping Hunter to save the world seems like a good idea but Tome and Hunter face a horror that just might be the death of them both.

This great little fantasy adventure is a smooth read and easy to enjoy. Hunter and Tome have known each other for years but have never quite been friends, Tome is determined to change that, but Hunter can’t quite forget the past that colors his feelings. As the two set out on the adventure together Tome finally cracks Hunter’s carefully crafted shell and Hunter finally accepts the feelings that Tome invokes in him. Together they face an adversary that they never expected and their relationship is changed forever.

I really enjoyed this story for its interesting storyline and for its simplistic setting, the world is written simply without too much information or too many characters to bog the story down. Both Hunter and Tome are interesting men, when the story starts out they both seem to be friendly adversary’s but it soon becomes apparent that there is a lot more to their relationship, a lot of which is based in the past. The story is all from Hunter’s perspective but we get a great feel for Tome, we see how Hunter works through his feelings and the worry he has over the role he has set himself. Tome is much simpler to watch, he wants Hunter to be his and is aggressive in his pursuit, which is fun to watch, both characters can be a bit arrogant at times, but they fit the storyline perfectly.

The storyline is great and you pick up what is happening easily, you get a good idea of who the baddie is and we see things connect together well, so it leaves you in no doubt that the plotting within the story has been going on for some time. The development of Hunter’s and Tome’s relationship is kinda sweet and heats up pretty well, there is also a slight D/s element that sneaks in from nowhere and surprises as both characters seem quite dominant but it adds a little spice. The adventure is pretty tame but the actual foes that are being fought are sneaky and eerie and the conclusion of the story is exciting.

I recommend this to those that love fantasy adventure, great characters, a slightly twisty storyline and a blossoming love.   

 

Beautiful Dreamer by Sam Singer

BeautifulDreamerLGTitle: Beautiful Dreamer

Series:  N/A

Author: Sam Singer

Genre: High Fantasy

Length: Novel (220 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 4th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating:
♥♥♥♥4Hearts

Blurb: From the time he was a child, Nicholas Crittendon, oft-overlooked second son of the Duke of Sanburne, has been outcast because of his fascination with the myth of the Lost Kingdom. As legend has it, the entire population was wiped from existence when its prince was cursed by an evil sorceress into a deathlike sleep.

Convinced that the Lost Kingdom is real, Nicholas devotes his days to reading and research, trying to pinpoint its location. As he grows older, his nights become haunted with dreams of a blond, green-eyed young man calling to Nicholas for help. Nicholas’s interest spirals into an obsession that drives him away from the comfort and safety of his life and toward the unknown of his dreams. Those slumbering visions may hold the key to everything he’s searched for and a lover he never believed could be real.

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4263

Reviewer:   GiGi

Review: I loved this book for all the memories it brought back of my favorite childhood fairy tales. And not the watered down Disney versions, but the original scary and dramatic version of Sleeping Beauty. Only this version is the tale has two beautiful men saving the day!

The story is complete with heroic friends, long journeys, long-suffering heroes, and of course the reawakened prince. The book and fairy tale addict, Nicholas finds his green-eyed prince in his dreams. Dreams that seem to become more real as time passes and drives him to worry for his own sanity. Can the dreams be real? Should he give up, move on, found new relationships with “real” men, and not let life pass him by in his dreams? Thank goodness, Nick’s dreams are powerful enough, combined with his fervent research on local folklore, to lead him to discover the hidden, sleeping village that time forgot.

I loved this tale. It brought a smile to my lips, and a hitch to my breath, the love scenes just right for the tempo of the tale. I’m ready for the next bedtime story!

Determined Mates by Toni Griffin

18720502Title: Determined Mates (2nd Edition)

Series: Holland Brothers, Book #2

Author: Toni Griffin

Length: Novel (124 Pages)

Publisher: Mischief Corner Books LLC (November 9th, 2013) First edition10780148 published February 19th, 2011

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4 to 4.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: Jason Matthew’s is a broken man. He’s lived through hell and barely come out the other side. All he can thing about is getting to his best friend, Brian, after that he has no idea. Jason’s scared out of his mind when he’s met by not only Brian but two large men as well, he does the only thing he can think to do. He tries to run. One of the men, though, turns out to be his mate. A mate he is in no condition to have or want, a mate that won’t allow him to flee.

Alex Holland is forced to stand by and watch as Jason is taken to the safest place they know, too scared to be around him. He knows something bad has happened to Jason and he’s going to need every ounce of his Alpha control to give his mate the time he needs to heal and start living again.

Product Link:  http://mischiefcornerbooks.weebly.com/determined-mate-holland-brothers-2.html

Review: Once again, Toni Griffin rocks my world. This series should be read in sequence, it’s just better that way.

This story about broke my heart with Jason’s story. He is so gentle, kind and a heart made of gold, and he just grabs your heartstrings. You can’t help but fall in love with him. And his mate Alex feels the same way. Alex is the alpha of his pack and treats his mate as if he is the most special person in his life, which of course he is as he should be. You can’t help but fall in love with him and the way he is so tender with Jason.

This book is so full of love, pain, and sadness, but the love will win all the way around. The sex is so passionate and truly hot. Even with the danger out there waiting for Jason, you can tell the Alex will protect him with his life. It will keep you spellbound and on the edge of your seat.

I am so glad to have found this series as it shows me that true love will heal all wounds. I am very glad to have this book in my library and cannot wait to add the others to it.

For Pete's Sake by Shawna Jeanne

91i3u5nHsuL._SL1500_Title: For Pete’s Sake

Author: Shawna Jeanne

Genre: MMF / Erotica

Length: Short Story (7,500 words)

Publisher: JMS Books (September 16th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5~3 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Sheila has always known her husband Pete is bisexual — his attraction to guys is part of what attracts her to him in the first place. But since they’ve been together, he hasn’t been with anyone other than her, male or female. Still, she can’t help but wonder if he doesn’t miss sex with men.

Sheila wants to reward Pete for being so loving and faithful … and she’d be lying if she didn’t admit that the idea of watching her husband have sex with another man turns her on something fierce. So she offers him a threesome, on three conditions: one, it only happens once; two, she gets to watch; three, and/or participate.

Pete jumps at the chance, but is hesitant when he discovers who Sheila has picked as their third wheel — his best friend Bryan, who has been half in love with Pete for years. When Sheila propositions him, he quickly jumps on board. But Bryan has never been with a woman before, and Pete’s afraid their friendship will suffer once they have sex.

Will Sheila be able to juggle both men and pull off a hot evening for Pete’s sake?

Product Link: http://www.jms-books.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=67&products_id=944&zenid=lfq9gcnm0jnuscnnof7i5ke401

Review: This short story was quite nice and fun. Sheila is married to Pete and he is bisexual. Now the good little wife is a girl who loves boys who love boys, and the fact that her husband might be missing a certain male part pushes her into considering a threesome For Pete’s Sake. So who better to join them than Pete’s own best gay friend, who has been in love with him forever? Well that was a bit awkward but the guys and gal manage to overcome all shyness and get to the hot stuff.

Thing is that this was a very good idea, but it could be better. The fact that this story is told with Sheila’s voice gives you a clue as what to expect. We have a strong female character here that will jump at the opportunity to make her sexual life as spicy as she can. Nothing wrong with that.

The idea of a ménage was absolutely brilliant, why I do envy her, but I got a bit frustrated with the sexual scenes themselves and the hasty/hazy description. The author here shied away from some acts that would have heightened the heat level up quite a few notches. There was a 70-30% focus on girly bits vs. boy bits here, as in the sexual action for the woman was more explicitly described that that of the guys. The prelude or foreplay was given more attention that the whole rest of the fun and all in all, there were things that were hastily hidden away as if the author was afraid of revealing too much. What with this being an erotic story the explicitly described scenes expected were a bit lacking.

Still as I said, it was a fun read and enjoyable one at that.

 

Crashing the Comicon by Charlie Richards

4251CrashingTheComicon510w-430x645Title: Crashing the Comicon

Series: Wolves of Stone Ridge, Book 21

Author: Charlie Richards

Length: Novel (111 Pages)

Publisher: Extasybooks (November 1st, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3.5 to 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Lisa

Blurb: Out of the Cage: When a shifter won’t do…maybe, a vampire will.

Sebastian Seb Russo is forced to take a commercial flight to his next assignment since the Vampire Council doesn’t have any planes available. His leaders have charged him with assisting the alpha of the wolf shifters in Stone Ridge, Colorado with communications between paranormal’s and the human government. Except, the one thing that would delay him happens…he discovers his beloved, his soul mate, on that plane. Now, Seb finds himself in Las Vegas, trailing the human Dirk Lemans. His attempts to woo the human are successful, until he makes one too many verbal slips, and he discovers a powerful truth. Dirk thinks Seb is a shifter…and not too long ago, shifters held him captive. Can Seb convince Dirk that not all paranormal’s are the same?

Product Link:  http://www.extasybooks.com/crashing-the-comicon/

Review: I have always loved Charlie Richards’ stories, but this book made me remember why. Most of the time her stories come off humorous and a bit quirky, and this book holds true to form. This story line and plot always keep me thinking, what’s gonna happen next. I could not put the story down and till I read the whole book.

I loved that Sebastian tries to always follow the rules of the council, but meeting his mate, a very human mate made it entirely different. At first, Dirk’s misgivings about Sebastian puts in a little crimp into Seb’s plan. But once he comes to realize his mistake, the gloves are off. They are so caring with each other, and the sex is very hot. Dirk’s fear of shape-shifters, has him fearing all paranormal. But, the way Sebastian treats him, makes his heart pound and his palms sweat. I loved the tenderness Sebastian shows Dirk.

This is a type of story, that you would just want to sit down in front of a fireplace holding your book, sipping wine, and relaxing. It has its humor and dangerous parts to the story. I love having this story and can’t wait to re-read it over and over again.

Broken Bonds by Sadrine Gasq-Dion

18491578Title:  Broken Bonds

Series:  Assassin/Shifter series, Book #20

Author:  Sandrine Gasq Dion

Genre:   Paranormal Romance         

Length:  Novel (147 pages)

Publisher:  Skull Blaster Publishing LLC (October 17th, 2013)

Heat Level:  Moderate to Explicit

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts

Blurb:   For years, Jackson Murphy and Jonas Brooks have been dancing around each other in a waltz of uncertainty and longing. One unexpected kiss meant to comfort rattles the two alphas, but neither is willing to make the first move. Now, their meddling packs are conniving to force the two alphas to see what they truly share — a bond of love. A reconnaissance mission to Siberia brings more confusion as Jonas’ deepest secret is revealed, and a startling revelation threatens to destroy their relationship before it even starts.

John Quinton has been without a wife for more than twenty years, still grieving her sudden death. An assignment to Siberia to find a missing alpha plants him squarely in the path of one of the most feared feral female werewolves in the Siberian enclosure. But things aren’t always as they seem. Just as John dares to care again, his hopes and dreams are smashed.

By a simple bond.

Product Link:  http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Assassin-Shifters-Sandrine-Gasq-Dion-ebook/dp/B00FZX2H4Y

Reviewer:   Tams

Review:  Jonas Brooks is an alpha and a shifter member of the elite Skull Blasters unit. He’s raised his son Jude, who is also a shifter, alone since his wife’s death. He never thought he was or would be attracted to another man. But ever since that unplanned, well-placed kiss from Jackson, he’s starting to re-think things. Jackson Murphy is also an alpha and a shifter among many within the team. He’s loved Jonas from afar for years, but Jonas continually pushes him away.

When the wolves within their packs get together and set their alphas up on a dinner date, Jackson is certain that Jonas is finally starting to let his guard down. It’s during their second date that Jonas succumbs to his obvious attraction to Jackson and the two have each other for desert! Soon they are sent on a rescue mission to Siberia after learning that John Quinton has been attacked. There they will learn that Fate is not always right and some bonds are meant to be broken.

I loved the push and pull in this book, there was no angst. Jackson knows what he wants and makes no secret of it, but he respects Jonas and doesn’t push. He wants Jonas to come to him on his own terms, and come to him he does. It’s not as long as some others in the series, so the events unfolded rather quickly, but the content wasn’t lacking in any way. For being a straight female, Gasq Dion has an unbelievable knowledge of the male persuasion… and an even better knowledge of how to bend them to her will and make them scream. Oh, wait, that was Jackson bending Jonas. My bad!!

EVERYTHING that I love about this author and her stories was there. Passion, emotion, humor, anxiety and yet another twist in Gasq Dion’s shifter world. The sex between Jackson and Jonas is electric, sort of like their attraction. There were even a few times in this book that I was full on snort laughing. Jackson and Jonas were both previously married to women so they go to their packs for assistance in the guy/guy department. Jonas talking to Jude about the ins and outs (pun intended!) of having sex almost made me piss myself! This book, this series, this author are a must read for fans of the m/m genre. 

Slick Competition by Mandy Harbin

17927409Title: Slick Competition

Author: Mandy Harbin

Genre: Contemporary/ Romantica

Length: Novella (103 pages)

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave (June 12th, 2013)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Reviewer: Cat

Blurb:   Mitchell Hill might be gay, but working for a business specializing in sexual products for men makes it hard for him…in more ways than one. When his new boss announces a contest to find an innovative product to launch nationally, Mitchell blurs the line between personal and professional by deciding to submit a lubricant he’d created for himself. One problem—he has to get the approval of his boss’s sexy assistant, a man he hasn’t been able to stop thinking about, in very carnal ways, since first seeing.

Kayden Wright has heard nothing but insane ideas about products until newcomer Mitchell walks into his office. He’s thrilled with the lube idea…and turned-on by the man before him. He always maintains a professional demeanor—he needs this job to deal with the mountain of medical bills piling at his door. But when Mitchell kisses him, he loses his steely control. Not easily willing to trust others, Kayden mistakes innocence for treachery, and the two men start a roller-coaster relationship filled with lies, deceit…and smoldering sex.

Purchase Link: http://www.ellorascave.com/slick-competition.html

Review: Mitchel is starting a new job with a company that caters to gay men. He meets Kayden, the assistant that no one at the company likes. They all warn him to watch his back that Kayden is a weasel and backstabber, but Mitchell finds him hot and intriguing.

I really liked this story. I thought it intriguing. I loved all the characters. The office politics really hit home.  I went back and forth on the Mitchel/ Kayden thing.  I liked Kayden and I could see his point of view.   I loved all the crazy ideas the people kept coming up with and I even liked the grouchy hateful boss.  This story was lots of fun and very sexy! I think I see a sequel coming and I can’t wait!

I recommend this if you like bartenders, science nerds, whacky ideas, sneaky assistants, and some hot mansex.

Blue River by Theo Fenraven

18484534Title: Blue River

Author: Theo Fenraven

Genre: Historical Romance / Time Travel (19th cent)

Length: Novella (92 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (October 9th, 2013)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3~3.5 Hearts

Reviewer: Thommie

Blurb: Photography genius Ethan Mars is out and living the fast life in Los Angeles until a mysterious mist in Topanga Canyon sends him back in time. There he meets Quinn Parker, a farmer who has hidden his homosexuality from everyone, even Margaret, his fiancée. Falling in love is the last thing Ethan expects, and the last thing Quinn can allow—in 1863, being gay can get him killed. When Ethan is unexpectedly offered a way home, he faces an impossible decision: go back… or stay. 

1st Edition published by MLR Press, 2011.

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

Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4254

Review: I really enjoyed this read, even though it wasn’t as enthralling as one would expect. It was fun though for me, and it had the most in your face slap of reality I’ve encountered. That on itself was hysterically funny for me. I swear I was reading the book and imagining what other reader’s faces and reactions would be at certain scenes, making my laugh out loud and hard for a while.

Other than that, the story is quite simple. There is a portal that shows randomly and there are tales of its existence, so naturally there are idiots who’d go and pursue those tales. But Ethan is not an idiot, he’s a brilliant photographer who’s simply going through the motions of life and following his crazy ass friend Randy to adventures and a bit of a thrill. It’s like that that he ends up walking through the mist and right into to the horrors of 19th’century.

Theo Fenraven manages to disillusion us from the romantic view of 19th cent in a very unique way. You think living back then was fun? Think again, for the horrors of outhouses, no plumbing, bathing with two buckets of water heated on the stove, and practically no heat in a small house but for a wood stove are all unraveled in front of your eyes in this little story. But romance still lives in a mostly realistic way and people do manage to live and fall in love even if deprived from the easy lifestyle of 21st century.

Again, I find myself needing to state that I liked this, very much actually. I liked how Ethan and Quinn worked together. I liked that there were no sugar-coating anything here, even though the blurb warns you that there is certain lack of consequences back in time. And I like the writing too. This is a two point of view narration but while Quinn’s PoV is written in third person, Ethan’s is written in first and there is this feeling you get as if Ethan is confessing to you making you come closer to him and feel as if you’re traveling with him back in time. A very nice touch, that one.

As for the intimacy between our two lovely characters it was ok, it was nice, it was sensual even at times. I so wanted the deflowering scene though, damn it, I was expecting it from Ethan’s reactions, and inner thoughts and waiting to see how they’d both react to that, especially after one certain intimate scene where Quinn literally flies in passion and eroticism. I was a bit disappointed I didn’t get that so when the story ended – a happy for now? Who knows – I was beating at my desk saying nooo and come on! But nothing to do about it now, simply wait and see if the author might come with a sequel for this story. Hmm imagine that!

Overall, this is quite an enjoyable read and it made me actually laugh even though it’s definitely not a comedy. Nice one and totally recommended.