Happy New Year 2014
Month: December 2013
A Very Demony Christmas by Nancy M. Griffis
Title: A Very Demony Christmas
Series: All I Want
Author: Nancy M Griffis
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Short (29 pages)
Publisher: Torquere Press (December 4th 2013)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: Damian and Laurent had danced around their attraction for years while fighting evil and saving the innocent. Stopping a demon from killing a homeless pregnant girl just before Christmas sets them on a path to stopping a hybrid demon from coming to power and maybe, finally, finding a way to be together in their crazy, dangerous lives.
Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_108&products_id=4084
Reviewer: Tams
Review: Laurent is an 800-year-old immortal demon killer. He spends most of his time killing hunting down then killing vampires and demons to protect the innocent. The rest of his time is spent pining over his human partner, Damian. Two years ago Laurent saved Damian during a fight, and the two have been fighting off evil and their mutual attraction ever since. With Christmas, approaching Laurent has a special gift in mind for Damian, if they survive the recent high-level demon they’re tracking.
I do hope that this is just a synopsis of better things to come. I completely loved the premise, and for so few pages, the core of the story was explained well. I only got a make out session in the end, and I want more for these two characters. An Immortal and a Human demon hunting pair that become lovers is fascinating to me, I pray this becomes a full novel at least.
If you’re looking for something short and slightly sexy with a paranormal twist for the Holiday, this is perfect.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
Bad Secret Santa by Francis Gideon
Title:Bad Secret Santa
Author: Francis Gideon
Genre: Contemporary, Holiday
Length: Short (5K)
Publisher:JMS Books (Published December 1st, 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Cat
Blurb: Greg does not want to go to another Christmas party. His job as the social media guy at a publishing house means he’s been hearing about Christmas since the summer and he’s lost all interest. But when Ray, his best friend from college, entices him into one last party before holiday break, Greg finds himself saying yes — and is strapped with finding a last-minute gift for a woman he hardly knows in a Secret Santa exchange.
Inside the crowded mall, Greg meets a sexy guy in tight pants. Later that evening, Greg is visiting Ray and his girlfriend when the same hot guy from the mall arrives. His name is Jason, he’s friends with Ray’s girlfriend, and he’s Greg’s Secret Santa. Unfortunately, he is rather bad at his task, since the gift he wants to give Greg is just as much for himself, as well.
Purchase Link: http://www.jms-books.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=29&products_id=1004&zenid=njm3kd1v0q9hhc7920k1v7d8a3
Review: Greg works in social media and is tired of Christmas but has to go to one last party with his best friend and his best friend’s girlfriend. Buying a secret Santa gift for a woman is bad enough but one you never met is even harder. While shopping Greg sees a man who catches his interest and the fact the man is buying lube and condoms really makes his mind wander. The man gets away while Greg is checking out before he could talk to him, but Greg gets a really good surprise when the mysterious man shows up at the party and claims to be his secret Santa.
This is a short but very sexy story. One that is sure to heat you up on a cold, lonely night. There isn’t a lot of plot, but there is an abundance of hot sex. Occasionally we need a good, sexy story that is all hot and steamy. This story is very steamy. I loved the bathroom sex. You have to read this to see what I mean.
If you like, a naughty Secret Santa, last minute shopping, and some really hot man-sex this one is definitely for you.
A Special Christmas by Julie Lynn Hayes
Title: A Special Christmas, 2nd edition
Series: N/A
Author: Julie Lynn Hayes
Genre: Holiday
Length: Novella (52 pages)
Publisher: Torquere press (December 4th, 2013)
Product link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4083
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: Florian Donati has an almost childlike innocence in the body of a god. Unaware of his charms, he enjoys his life, working in his family’s drycleaning business in Prohibition-era Chicago. He loves his job, loves singing Italian opera, and loves the people in his life, including his friend Loria and the notorious gangster Alphonse Capone. Still, he dreams of having adventures and finding love.
Nick Giannakopoulos is a young Greek immigrant who’s come to America to live with his uncle’s family, working with his cousin in the family pharmacy. There are many things he’d love to do, including going to a party in a speakeasy that he and his cousin Milo have been invited to. But it’s on Christmas Eve, so family obligations preclude their going — until Fate intervenes, and Nick and Florian end up at the same speakeasy in Romeoville and find themselves sitting at the same table.
Is instant attraction a basis for a long-term relationship? Or is this just a passing Christmas fancy? Previously published by Silver Publishing.
Reviewer: Pammie
Review: A romantic first time love story.
This is a fairly short Christmas read, with the added interest of a peek at the Prohibition era.
Florian likes singing opera, and works in his family’s dry cleaning business. Nick works in the family pharmacy. They also share a similar hero-worship for the gangsters of the day, especially Al Capone. The fates conspire to bring the young men together in a speakeasy on Christmas Eve. Nick is instantly smitten with the gorgeous Florian, and Florian equally with the handsome Nick. On the cusp of sharing a public kiss, the speakeasy is raided. Staying the night at the house of a friend, the two young men find first love together.
It’s a beautifully romantic tale. Nick worries that he will lose Florian just as they’ve met. Florian has no such doubts and plans their happy ever after. I hope if the author writes any more about this gorgeous couple, they get it.
If you like first love, romance and Christmas reads, this is for you.
Not Broken, Just Bent by Mia Kerick
Title: Not Broken, Just Bent
Author: Mia Kerick
Genre: Contemporary YA Romance
Length: Novel (180 pages)
Publisher: Harmony Ink, Dreamspinner Press (November 14th 2013)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Braving the start of high school, longtime childhood friends Benjamin Wells and Timmy Norton quickly realize they are entering a whole new world colored by their family responsibilities. Ben is trying to please his strict father; Timmy is taking care of his younger sisters. While their easy camaraderie is still comfortable, Ben notices Timmy growing distant and evasive, but Ben has his own problems. It’s easier to let concerns about Timmy’s home life slide, especially when Timmy changes directions and starts to get a little too close. Ben doesn’t know how to handle the new feelings Timmy’s desire for love inspires, and his continuing denial wounds Timmy deeply.
But what Timmy perceives as Ben’s greatest betrayal is yet to come, and the fallout threatens to break them apart forever. Over the next four years, the push and pull between them and the outside world twists and tears at Ben and Timmy, and they are haunted by fear and regret. However, sometimes what seems broken is just a little bent, and if they can find forgiveness within themselves, Ben and Timmy may be able to move forward together.
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4386
Reviewer: Tams
Review: The story is told from Ben’s POV as he relives their story, his, and Timmy’s. Ben and Tim, as their friends call them, are pretty much inseparable until normal adolescent problems and hidden feelings start to get in the way. Ben is trying so hard to please his unappeasable father while Tim is dealing with issues of his own. He starts to pull away from Ben, partying and doing drugs. When Tim realizes he has feelings for Ben that go beyond friendship and tries to explore them, Ben shuts him down, not wanting to admit to himself that his feelings for Tim go beyond friendship as well. In an attempt to protect his friend, Ben makes a decision that has severe consequences.
I loved that this story was told from the one characters POV, almost like a journal he’d written about their life together. As you live Ben and Tim’s life through Ben’s eyes, you get to see them grow and change so much. Through the good and the bad, they truly are meant to be together. The title of this book is absolutely perfect; they aren’t broken, just bent. After Ben broke Tim’s trust, they fell apart for a while. Both of them went through a lot of personal growth throughout and came out the other side stronger. Ben’s voice is passionate and smooth, and you can almost feel his pain when he has to let Tim go. Even finding their way back to each other, Tim admitting how hurt he was and yet, how much he still loved Ben.
Let me start by saying Cover Love! That is what drew me to this book initially. Then the blurb sealed the deal. What I got was a really good gay YA story. Kept my attention from start to finish with mild angst and subtle character development. Definitely recommend this one.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
His Kiss
Razzle Dazzle by Morticia Knight
Title: Razzle Dazzle
Series: Gin & Jazz, Book #2
Author: Morticia Knight
Genre: Historical Romance (1920s)
Length: Novel (216 pages)
Publisher: Totally Bound (November 29th, 2013)
Heat Level: Moderate to Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts
Blurb: Jack is on the verge of silent film stardom, but Hollywood glory won’t heal his broken heart. But the seductive screen idol—Roman Pasquale—sweeps Jack away, and makes him his own. Will Roman’s obsessive love finally bring Jack true happiness?
Jack is devastated by the loss of Nick, his best friend and lover. His only other friend, new Hollywood star Trixie Fox, comes to his rescue. What he doesn’t know, is that she’s also helping Roman Pasquale in his carefully planned seduction of the shy and innocent Jack.
Suave film screen idol—Roman Pasquale—has been obsessed by Jack Stone from the moment he spotted him at a Global Studios party. He will stop at nothing until the golden-haired young man belongs to him. An expert at getting what he wants, Roman plans every wicked word, look and move to bring him closer to achieving his prize.
Jack is on the brink of stardom, and can’t believe that his movie star crush, Roman Pasquale, is taking an interest in him. But he resists the older, more sophisticated man’s attempts at seducing him. After all, he still loves Nick, and just isn’t ready to try again with anyone else. But when Roman turns on the charm, Jack is tempted. Can Roman replace Nick in Jack’s heart? Or is the magical world of the great Roman Pasquale all an illusion?
Reader Advisory: This book contains scenes of drug use, reference to a prior rape not shown and scene of M/M/M/M.
Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/razzle-dazzle
Reviewer: Tams
Review: *The ramifications of everything that happened in book 1, Hollywood Bound, are realized in this second installment of the series. I strongly suggest you read book 1 before you dive into this book.*
With Nick gone, Jack is alone and devastated. But he has caught the attention of fellow actor, Roman Pasquale, who will stop at nothing to claim him. It’s hard to forget your first love, but when you have a dashing and sexy older man vying for your attention and professing his love for you, that second chance is awful appealing.
Roman is successful, sophisticated and determined. He has the means and the time to woo young Jack. He is used to getting what he wants but he realizes he has to tread lightly where Jack is concerned. He courts the young man with lavish dinners, expensive gifts, and romantic rendezvous. Jack is good at resisting in the beginning, but Roman’s determination is evident and soon enough he wiggles his way under Jacks skin, and into his heart.
I’m sensing a trend here. As with the character of Nick in book 1, Roman blurred the line of likeability, but you can tell that he truly loves Jack and understand the motives behind his actions. Roman comes across as obsessive, possessive and destructive. But underneath all his bravado, you can see the depth of his feelings, which are sometimes clouded by insecurity. Jack can see beyond the bravado and see the man who he’s falling in love with.
I absolutely loved the way Jack made Roman work for it. The seduction was a slow burn with an explosive pay off when Roman finally got Jack into his bed. But can Jack keep up with the high maintenance actor that has a knack for getting what he wants? Knight stayed true to the backdrop she created in Hollywood Bound as well. Speak Easy’s, Gin Joints and Bowler Hats are just a few of the props used to allow the reader to adapt to the era.
The cliffhanger in this book is not as jaw dropping as the first, but it’s still a doosey. I cannot wait for book three to see who Jack is going to choose. Nick or Roman? I’m usually confirmed in my opinion about who should be where in a love triangle. But Knight has me so torn! I could see Jack with either one of these men, for completely different reasons. If you haven’t read this series, you really should. It’s sinfully sexy and I’d hate for you to miss out on something so good.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
Coloring Outside the Lines by Diana DeRicci
Title: Coloring Outside the Lines
Series: Different Paths to Love, Book #2
Author: Diana DeRicci
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Novel (112 pages)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 11th 2013)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Photographer Ralph Haraldsson’s birthday celebration starts to turn disastrous when he runs into his ex, and it seems to be headed downhill from there. Julian Franzese, an off-duty cop with a hotter-than-sin body, gets co-opted to take Ralph home when the friends he came with run into problems. Even though they’ve never met before, Julian defends Ralph’s wounded pride from his ex and his body from a creepy patron. The relationship starts out cool, but Ralph soon warms up to the persistent Texan, and as they get to know each other, the temperature continues to rise. But Ralph has a couple of secrets: an old injury that could make a difference, and the room he keeps locked up behind his studio—a room where only those who play by the rules can enter. What might Julian think if Ralph shows him all his hidden colors?
Product Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4466
Reviewer: Tams
Review: This is the second book in a series, but stands well on its own.
Ralph and his boss Tony are at a local bar celebrating Ralph’s birthday when he meets the super sexy cop with the even sexier accent, Julian. But Ralph is not easily swayed by suave one-liners, no matter how attractive Julian may be. When Ralph’s ex makes an impromptu appearance, Julian makes it a little less uncomfortable. And then a drunk stranger gets a little too touchy feely and Julian once again comes to Ralph’s aid. Ralph is gun-shy because of the past and a secret he hides that he isn’t sure any suitor would welcome.
Julian latches onto Ralph immediately and refuses to let go! He runs of the shoddy ex and the unwanted advances of an overzealous bar fly in hopes of getting a little closer to blonde photographer. His persistence eventually pays off as Ralph slowly but surely lets him into his life. Julian becomes even more protective of his would be lover when Ralph shares with him his feeling of being watched. And when Ralph’s hyper awareness becomes reality, both men may suffer in the aftermath.
I do love when a title plays directly into the story so completely. Ralph does anything but color inside the lines. His personality and life have been carved out the challenges he’s faced, and here he is facing yet another one. The difference is this time he has a loving partner standing by him who will still be there when he reaches the other side. Add to that Julian’s sex on a stick persona and very protective nature toward Ralph, and you have a pretty decent base story.
The storyline itself wasn’t as in-depth as the first book in this series, and I didn’t connect with the characters on a personal level quite like I did with Tony and Brandon. But it was still a well-written book. And I think part of the reason I didn’t connect as well to Ralph might be because he’s so closed off. That could be what the author was aiming for. Regardless I’m still intrigued by this author and her work and I can’t wait for the next installment in this series.
Link to Tams’ review of book #1, Second Chance at Love: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/583056144
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
The Wolf's Tiger by Lynn Tyler
Title: The Wolf’s Tiger
Series: Pack Mates, Book #3
Author: Lynn Tyler
Genre: Paranormal Shifter Romance
Length: Novel (272 pages)
Publisher: Liquid Silver books (December 23rd 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: He’s a tough, strong wolf shifter – raising his three young nieces will be a snap. Sure, it will! Enter a sexy tiger-shifter-turned-nanny and things really start to get interesting. The Wolf’s Tiger is the passionate new addition to Lynn Tyler’s hot, paranormal romance series, Pack Mates.
All Grayson Mitchell, a wolf shifter, wants to do is raise his nieces in peace and maybe get a full night’s sleep while he’s at it. But between his job as an emergency room nurse and the demands of the three little girls, sleep seems far off. He needs someone who can help him out with the girls, and a nanny seems like the ideal solution.
Shannon Cho is a tiger shifter who was banished from his pride for being too powerful. But he doesn’t want to lead. He wants to devote his life to children. Answering an ad for a nanny is the opportunity he’s been waiting for.
But what happens when the two men cross the line between employer and employee? Will love flourish? Or will the secret that’s been kept from the Smooth Rock Falls pack tear everything apart?
Content Notes: Hot, Anal Play, Anal Intercourse, GLBT, Light BDSM
Product Link: http://www.lsbooks.com/the-wolfs-tiger-p865.php
Reviewer: Tams
Review: This is the third book in a series that I highly recommend you read in order to fully appreciate the storyline and the various characters.
Grayson Mitchell (Gray) is a wolf shifter, ER nurse, and unexpected new father. His sister and brother-in-law were killed in an accident leaving him the primary care giver for his three young nieces. Declan and Quinn, Gray’s alpha and the alphas mate, are really pitching in and helping as much as they can, as well as the other members of the Smooth Rock Falls pack. But there is only so much they can do and Gray soon realizes he’s going to need some help.
Shannon Cho is perfectly happy on his own. As a Tiger shifter, it’s in his nature to be a loner. He was forced out of his pride because of his strength, although it was all for not, because Shannon doesn’t want to lead anyone. He just wants to care for children, it’s what he loves, and he’s good at it. He answers Gray’s ad for a nanny and is hired pretty much on the spot, with Declan’s approval of course.
The attraction is immediate and mutual, but neither Gray nor Shannon wants to cross that line at the start. Chemistry can only be denied for so long and soon the overwhelming pull they feel to one another wins. They settle into a comfortable relationship and they both fight to urge to claim the other as their mate. A dinner with the other pack members one night proves to everyone just how powerful Shannon truly is when he perceives Gray to be in danger.
But there is more still. All the while Gray, Shannon and the girls are adjusting to a new lifestyle and the pack is getting accustomed to the new Tiger in their midst; an old enemy is dancing in the shadows. Declan puts the pack on lock down when they find evidence that Shannon and the girls are in danger. When their enemy puts Gray’s life in danger, said enemy better watch out, because he now has a four hundred pound tiger on his ass!
I do love this series, I’ve become completely invested in all the shifters from the Smooth Rock Falls pack, and this newest installment did not disappoint! Action, suspense, sticky sex, intrigue, and waffles were just floating off the pages. The interactions between the characters as the pack faced a threat to one of their own and quickly went into protection mode. And then Gray, Shannon and the girls getting to know one another and becoming a strong family unit somewhere along the way. It was all woven together seamlessly and the writing flowed consistently from start to finish. I devoured this book in one setting.
If you are a fan of strong alpha males, gay shifters, steamy romance and some intense action then the Pack Mates series is a must read.
Woke Up in a Strange Place by Eric Arvin
*Note* Winner of the 2012 Gaybie for Best Speculative Fiction
Title: Woke Up in a Strange Place
Author: Eric Arvin
Genre: Contemporary Spiritual Romance
Length: 7 hours and 37 minutes
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (6-28-13)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb: Joe wakes up in a barley field with no clothes, no memories, and no idea how he got there. Before he knows it, he’s off on the last great journey of his life. With his soul guide Baker and a charge to have courage from a mysterious, alluring, and somehow familiar Stranger, Joe sets off through a fantastical changing landscape to confront his past.
The quest is not without challenges. Joe’s past is not always an easy thing to relive, but if he wants to find peace— and reunite, with the Stranger, he is so strongly drawn to—he must continue on until the end, no matter how tempted he is to stop along the way.
Product Link Dreamspinner: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3960
Product Link Audiobook: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=3960
Reviewer: Tams
Review: The blurb really does say it well for this book. The story follows Joe as he traverses what can only be perceived as the afterlife. He woke up butt naked in a field with no recollection of who he is or how he got where he is. As the story unfolds Joe along with his guide, Baker, face a series of realities and challenges that Joe must face in order to find his way. Peppered throughout are memories that keep rising to the surface. Memories of a lover that are shadowed that blend with the stranger he met when he first woke up.
And then that final memory of how Joe got to this strange place. A choice he made that he will have to come to terms with if his spirit is going to survive. This book reminded me a lot of the movie What Dreams May Come. It was very poignant and prolific almost. Definitely, a spiritual message there for those who are willing to see it. What I was most drawn to while listening to this book was the scenery. Arvin painted a picture in words that could rival any artist on display in a gallery.
Narrated by the master storyteller himself, Mr. Charlie David. I just love his voice, and I especially loved the Nashville edge he added to not only Baker’s voice, but also his entire persona. I don’t know if I would have enjoyed the print version of this book as much as I did the audible. My day just flew by listening to this one, I seriously lost track of time.
*I received a copy of this audio book from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review through MM Good Book Reviews*
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com
Spears and Stones by Holly Meadowes
Title: Spears and Stones
Author: Holly Meadowes
Genre: Alternative, historical, time travel
Length: Novella (71 pages)
ISNB: 9781627404549
Publisher: Siren Publishing (September 7th, 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Eric
Blurb: Ansgar, the son of a powerful Germanic chief, is hunting with his brother one day, but far from finding a wild boar they find a young, fiery haired man dressed in strange clothing. Fearing that he may be in league with the Romans that their tribe are fighting against or an escaped slave from one of said Roman camps, they take him prisoner.
The young man claims that he is from a time in the distant future and is searching for the myth of the Flame Thrower. As Ansgar tries to decide whether or not this boy is truly mad, trouble brews over the threat of Roman invasion. The fiery haired boy, Cinead makes a deal with Ansgar. If he fights with them against the Romans, he will be rewarded by being escorted to a great stone monument, which he claims he was transported here by and allowed to go home. The German warrior decides to humour him, but as they plan and train and fight together and he sees the strength, tenacity, cleverness and general beauty of Cindead, he begins to realise that, mad or not he doesn’t want him to leave.
Purchase Link: http://www.bookstrand.com/spears-and-stones
Review: I loved this novella.
It was filled with the perfect amount of detail, the right amount of sexual tension and a hot sex scene or two. I found the characters were right to be with each other. Though the story was only told in Ansgar’s point of view, it is just as good as any other romance. I found it to be one of my favourites: from the plot, to the romance, to the characters themselves.
Hold My Calls…
Hot Mess by Rowan McAllister
Title: Hot Mess
Author: Rowan McAllister
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novel (200 Pages)
ISNB: 9781627983570
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 4th, 2013)
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Eric
Blurb: Too much partying and self-inflicted trouble have left Cameron Lacey’s life a complete mess. But he’s determined to change, and he’ll do anything to keep a roof over his head until he gets himself together. When he’s introduced to Sam Powell, he can’t believe Sam will let him stay without expecting anything in return—in Cameron’s world, nothing is free. Realizing Sam’s bleeding heart is exactly as it appears throws Cameron for a loop… and completely head over heels. Unfortunately, old habits die hard.
Cameron’s demons rear their ugly heads, leading to a series of backsliding disasters and fumbled attempts by Sam to save Cameron from bad choices. As Cameron struggles to become who he wants to be instead of who he is, he also comes to hope Sam will discover that what’s right for him might not be what he’s looking for—but who he already has.
Purchase Link: http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=4411
Review: I love everything about this novel. It meets all my criteria for a perfect book. Lovable, identifiable characters. Amazing plot. The fact that when things go bad Cameron ends up fixing them somehow. It’s the perfect novel in my eyes. I feel it can very well end up being the perfect novel. And the more I read it, the more I want to meet the man who could play Cameron if it turns into a movie.
I feel I can identify with Cameron in this novel. And it makes things even better when I read about Sam. He is a great guy that feels like the older brother at first but things turn around in that special way. The couple is very much realistic. It is just downright amazing. I cannot get over how much I love this novel. Rowan McAllister wrote it just right.
Peanut Butter and Jelly for Two by Jackie Nacht
Title: Peanut Butter and Jelly for Two
Author: Jackie Nacht
Genre: Paranormal / Humor
ISBN: MLR-1-02013-0177
Length: Novella (53 pages
Publisher: MLR Press (December 23rd, 2013)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts
Reviewer: Thommie
Blurb: The sexy chipmunk shifter isn’t afraid of the dentist; he’s in love with him.
Phillip has the best job working at the Paranormal Dentistry for the Fanged and Friendly. As a chipmunk shifter, Phillip has seen handsome men walk through the door but none so gorgeous as his boss and wolf shifter, Dr. Gunner Samuels. When he finds himself being manipulated by his best friend to ask the big bad wolf over for dinner, Phillip realizes his biggest dilemma, he’s never cooked a day in his life, let alone meat. Can Phillip pull off a fabulous dinner for two? And has Gunner had his eye on the sexy shifter all this time?
Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=JN_PBJF2
Review: A chipmunk shifter and a wolf shifter… Hmmm!
Alright, I admit it; after being totally in love with Jackie Nacht’s wolves (the ones I’ve met at Moon Compound series) I’d blindly go and read any story of hers, but chipmunk and wolf? Yeah, I was very, very cautious while opening and starting reading this one. And I got surprised.
Nothing similar to her other work whatsoever, Peanut Butter and Jelly for Two is a quick, fun and funny read that distinguishes itself from other similar reads as well. There is the lack of the ever-present fated mates. There is a lack of the ever-present magic that wants shifters magically healing and/or not catching diseases. Frankly, the only thing making this a paranormal read is the fact that characters shift.
The story has also an original take here as well. A dentist! A dentist set for shifters on forms, human and animal, with an entire crew that brings in clients from all over the place. Brilliant!
Now how about a dash of humor?
How about herbivores sticking their heads inside a carnivore’s mouth in order to flush/cleanse their teeth…? Do you see it?
How about having a vegetarian shifter trying to cook roast when the oven in his place has never, ever been used…?
How about a chipmunk falling for a wolf, and while the human part is quite all right with that, the animal inside wants to run the heck out of sight and well save yourself from the fangs…
It was funny, and it was enticing, and it was sexy as well. I must say it never occurred to me how a chipmunk in heat would act… (Yeah, I had images flowing in my head. Yeah! They were definitely weird images too) Overall, this was one fun read and a story I wouldn’t mind seeing more. After all, there is a certain couple there that needs to get their act together, Dallas has got to give some love around and stop being a big, fat, grumpy bear.
As for this book, if you do love shifters and appreciate humor, then I’d definitely recommend this little story. It’s bound to put a smile on your face.
All I Want for Christmas by V.L. Locey
Title: All I Want for Christmas
Series: A Toms & Tabbies Tale
Author: V.L. Locey
Genre: Contemporary/Christmas
Length: Novella (32K)
Publisher: Torquere Press (December 20th, 2013)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Alexander Dawson thought this Christmas would be a lonely one. He has no way of knowing that his cantankerous cat, Mister Tibbets, will turn a simple online shopping trip into a cataclysmic Christmas conundrum. Alex ends up on a madcap dash to another state during a snowstorm to return a painting to dreamy wildlife artist, Cooper Reynolds. Once he stumbles across Cooper’s remote log cabin, he and the sexy but emotionally distant painter end up sharing more than a kiss under the mistletoe. Things aren’t all holly-jolly for the men though. Cooper gets a terrible case of icy feet, and Alex hits the road as soon as the snowplow clears it, feeling hurt and angry. Can Alex, Cooper, and their feline friends find a way to have purrfect holiday together?
Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=78_85&products_id=4100
Reviewer: GiGi
Review: I want nothing more for this dear sweet guy, who loves and cares for ornery senior citizens, and cranky rescue cats, to have everything he wants for Christmas!
Enter the hot, lonely, jaded artist, a snowstorm, and some sizzling attraction and we have a fun story with plenty of Christmas bromance!
This is a fun and sexy read, though I don’t know if even I have enough patience and love for that damnable cat! A fun read, I recommend for those true romantics.
A Collar for Christmas by A.E. Lawless
Title: A Collar for Christmas
Series: N/A
Author: A.E. Lawless
Genre: Contemporary/BDSM
Length: Novel (147 pages)
Publisher: Loose Id (December 23rd, 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥4.5Hearts
Blurb: For actor Liam, anxiety and panic attacks are old friends, but they only get worse the more famous he gets. Nothing has ever worked to help him control the anxiety until his costar, Aaron, introduces him to bondage. Too bad Liam develops feelings for Aaron and ruins the only solution he’s ever found for his neuroses.
Aaron only wants to keep history from repeating itself. He’s already had one costar spin out of control, resulting in her tragic death, he can’t just sit idly by and watch another friend and colleague destroy himself from the inside out. He’ll do anything to keep that from happening–even enter into a non-sexual BDSM arrangement with him.
What starts out as a way to control Liam’s anxiety becomes so much more. At least for Liam. So, tired of pretending he doesn’t want Aaron in his life for good, Liam decides to give him the perfect Christmas gift. The kind that will show Aaron exactly what Liam wants from their relationship: the collar he’s been dreaming of Aaron putting on him for months.
Product Link: http://www.loose-id.com/newest/a-collar-for-christmas.html
Reviewer: GiGi
Review: A very refreshing take on BDSM!
I really enjoyed the fact that Liam’s introduction to BDSM wasn’t really sexual, and wasn’t really defined as such at the start of this sexy story. The light bondage and slight pain was meant to be a distraction Aaron used to help his friend come down from his anxiety attacks, but as the occurrence goes on, and Aaron does research to develop new sessions to help Liam, lines get blurry and everyone gets confused, even at times me!
Liam tries to deny these sessions are something deeper, but he’s ignoring his own feelings, and letting Aaron ignore them too. Scene after scene gets hotter, and eventually we know it’s going to blow up in their faces, the question is can they acknowledge what is going on? Is this really more than a non-sexual method to help a friend, or are they both in total denial?
When Liam flees home to hide from his troubles and celebrate Christmas, he’s reminded that no matter how this turns out, his family has his back and the comforts of home still exist. Hearts will be broken, but can they be mended?
Such a great story for those who enjoy the BDSM genre, a very fresh view!
Guardian Angel by Michael Mandrake
Title: Guardian Angel
Series: N/A
Author: Sharita Lira writing as Michael Mandrake
Genre: Contemporary/YA/Suicide
Length: Short Story (39 pages)
Publisher: Triad Literary (July 12th, 2013)
Heat Level: None
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Calvin is looking to end it all because he feels his family won’t accept him as a gay man. Unbeknownst to him, someone is watching, looking to pick him up and rescue him from his negative state. Can Calvin get help before it’s too late? This is a story of coming out and accepting who you are. Remember, you are normal and you are not alone.
Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Guardian-Angel-Michael-Mandrake-ebook/dp/B00DWLAFQI
Reviewer: GiGi
Review: Thank goodness for suicide hotlines and sisters…and if one believes in angels…cousins who wish, they could do things differently.
This is a sweet and sad story that contains no sexual content, but a strong message to those who are gay, feeling they cannot be themselves…You are not alone…, and it will get better!
Very after-school special kind of feeling, but important nonetheless.
Snowfight
Santa Claus is Coming by V.J. Summers
Title: Santa Claus Is Coming
Series: N/A
Author: V.J. Summers
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (49 pages)
Publisher: eXtasy Books (December 13th, 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: T’was the Night After Christmas: It’s the night after Christmas and all Santa wants is a drink, a shower, and a long winter’s nap. When he stops into his favorite bar to unwind, one look at the live entertainment has him adding a little stress relief to his post-Christmas wish list. Luckily, lounge singer and drag queen extraordinaire Chimera is more than willing to get right to work on that!
Product Link: http://www.extasybooks.com/santa-claus-is-coming/
Reviewer: GiGi
Review: Santa Claus Is Coming, and coming, and coming! Poor tired, warn out Santa just needs a couple of shots of good scotch and a little lovin’ to sooth his sore holiday bones. Chimera is just the hot little number to set Santa to rights.
This is a fun steamy story about a rather naughty Santa, this isn’t the big cuddly jolly bear you imagine, and this Santa is a bit dominating and gets what he wants! Chimera is the perfect lusty package, who also knows how to work out Santa’s knots and sore muscles, to even his temper and put a smile back on his face!
A hot and steamy, holiday read for sure! I recommend this short to spice up your winter night!
Merry Christmas, Utah by Erin O'Quinn
Title: Merry Christmas Utah
Series: N/A
Author: Erin O’Quinn
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Short Story (6K)
Publisher: Amber Quill Press (November 24th, 2013)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥2.5 Hearts
Blurb: Utah is a solitary Native American man who lives on the verge of nowhere, a huddle of tiny trailers in the foothills of Nevada’s highest peak. He is a medicine singer, a Paiute truth-seeker who thinks he’s happy. Mostly. He also knows he’s gay. So true happiness lies just beyond the reach of his Spirit Song.
One day, injured, he is rescued by a stranger who soon begins to teach him the nature of healing and of physical joy. The stranger, who calls himself Kris, is a throwback to the 70s’ hippie culture Utah has only heard about. And he begins to heal Kris in ways the young man has never even dreamed of.
Utah awakens on Christmas Eve to find his mysterious new friend missing. The man has only a thumbnail of a trailer, and no pickup, so his disappearance is alarming. What will happen when Utah sets out to find Kris in the dark, in a snowstorm, while the children of the world wait for Santa?
Product Link: http://www.amberquill.com/AmberAllure/MerryChristmasUtah.html
Reviewer: GiGi
Review: An interesting attempt at intertwining Native American spiritual beliefs with Christian Kris Kringle mythology, but doesn’t quite pull it off. I enjoyed the fact that I totally didn’t realize who Kris was at first! I didn’t add up the hippy, lovin’ Blondie with Kris Kringle, the merry Santa that delivers presents.
A promising start, the ending is sudden