The Rodeo Knight by Ashavan Doyon

Ashavan Doyon - The Rodeo Knight CoverTitle: The Rodeo Knight 

Series:  Sam’s Cafe Romances 03

Author: Ashavan Doyon

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (117 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 30, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts

Blurb: Struck by amnesia after a car crash, Brian Stouten has been living a life laid out by his family, a heterosexual life that just doesn’t fit. When he learns it was all a lie, he returns to the small college town that’s his only clue to his past. But the town is still unfamiliar, and the man he’d hoped would make all his memories return is on a honeymoon with another man. To add insult to injury, everyone thinks Brian died in the crash. It’s only when an out-of-place cowboy asks to bum a smoke that Brian realizes this trip was meant to be.

Sylvester Thomas has always fought a secret desire, and done it successfully. But when geeky Brian offers him a smoke and a light, a simple brush of hands has Sylvester’s hidden passions burning deep. Did he make a mistake letting Brian walk away?

ISBN-13:  978-1-63477-913-5

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-rodeo-knight-by-ashavan-doyon-7832-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Brian has no clue who he after a car accident leaves him with amnesia. His family help but Brian soon discovers they are lying to him so he leaves for a small town that seems familiar looking for Russell. He learns that Russ is on his honeymoon.

Sylvester has longed for Brian for a while yet kept it secret. Now Brian is back with no memory. I loved that Sylvester seemed to have a second chance. Though Brian at times seemed out of character with his callousness. 

It was an interesting story that draws you in with plenty of drama. Good read.

A Wounded Promise by Ashavan Doyon

Ashavan Doyon - A Wounded Promise CoverTitle: A Wounded Promise 

Series:  Sam’s Cafe Romances # 2

Author: Ashavan Doyon

Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance

Length: Novella (99 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (March 4, 2015)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Having survived one nightmare of a relationship, Justin Tesh thought he’d left the worst behind when he put his ex Peter behind bars. But when his new lover, Russell Pine, explodes in a fit of alcohol-fueled rage, Justin finds himself frozen with a fear he thought he’d long since worked through. While older, more experienced Russ is anxious to put the incident behind them, avoiding personal issues never works, and for Justin, his fear is an open doorway to demons both he and Russ need to confront.

Despite their histories of loss and pain, Russ has faith in the promise of their relationship. But if he can’t heal the wound he’s inflicted on his lover’s heart, he risks losing Justin forever to Peter’s legacy of brutality.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63216-562-6

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/a-wounded-promise-by-ashavan-doyon-2191-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: One man one step away from becoming an alcoholic and another trying to live again after a horrific relationship nightmare come together and all seems to go well until Russell erupts in a blind alcoholic rage after an incident. Poor Justin is thrown back into a scenario he’d rather forget so leaves in terror.

These two men Justin Russell had so many issues I was honestly surprised they got together at all rather taking time and getting through their baggage before attempting a relationship. Nevertheless, the two men seem to need one another and once the incident that drove Justin away is talked over they come together. 

Emotional, dramatic and tense at times this book delivers a punch. 

The King's Mate by Ashavan Doyon (2nd Edition)

Ashavan Doyon - The King's Mate CoverTitle: The King’s Mate (2nd Edition)

Series:  Sam’s Cafe Romances # 1

Author: Ashavan Doyon

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Short (77 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 30, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: Russell Pine comes to Sam’s Café every morning to enjoy the best coffee in town and to chat with Sam Tesh, the owner, a loyal friend for the past twenty years. When Sam offers him a challenge, Russ reluctantly takes it on, acting as the master opponent in a chess tournament. As the days pass and the hopefuls fall to the chess mastermind one by one, Russ discovers that the contest isn’t the only game being played. 

Russ finds himself the focus of a secret courtship through words and pictures left for him to discover each morning. Will a hint of cologne on the paper lead him to his admirer? In a café full of young and beautiful minds, who is looking at the graying chess master?

First Edition published by Dreamspinner Press, June 2013.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-912-8

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-kings-mate-by-ashavan-doyon-7831-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: I liked the secret admirer aspect of the story but would have preferred it that I did not know who it was. Russell comes to Sam’s every day for coffee and conversation. When asked by Sam for a favor Russell agrees. Thus begins a secret admirer sending Russell hints to his identity, which I guessed right away.

It was a cute, sweet story. If you like a fast read with sexy men and romance then this is for you.

Only Forever by Scotty Cade

Scotty Cade - Only Forever CoverTitle: Only Forever

Author: Scotty Cade 

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novella (266 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 30, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb:  Master Captain Theodore Gourdin has always loved the ocean. But his devotion to maritime life left little possibility for a long-term relationship. After two failed marriages, Theo gave up on finding the person who completed him and decided the sea was his soul mate. When offered the opportunity to captain the newly launched megayacht Eternity, Theo jumped at the chance. With Eternity’s maiden voyage looming, Theo focused all his energies on hiring his crew and readying his ship. The last thing he expected was to finally lose his heart in the process.

After twelve years at sea, First Officer Heath Rawlins was restless and in need of a change. A gay seaman’s life could be a lonely one, but to Heath the positives far outweighed the negatives. With excellent recommendations and an impressive resume, he was quickly offered a position on the private megayacht Eternity. Heath’s heart skipped several beats when he finally met the ship’s captain. He was handsome and charming. And… familiar? Had they met somewhere before? Highly unlikely. But as smitten as Heath was with the gorgeous captain, everything inside him screamed, Abandon ship! Rough seas ahead!

ISBN: 978-1-63477-811-4

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/only-forever-by-scotty-cade-7829-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I have had the pleasure of reading a few of Scotty Cade’s stories and have always been amazed by them.  With this particular story I was at odds with it.  The story is very well written with a lot of depth to it.  However I think it was the actual story line that was a bit twisted for me.  Although it does give me hope about reincarnation.

Theo was the captain of his ship but he had needed a first mate.  One that he could get along with perfectly.  He just had not expected how perfect they would get on.  Then the dreams of a man long gone, showed him just a bit more about just how perfect they are together.  It also explained why he was just not connected with his past wives.  

Heath had spent twelve years at sea, but now he wanted a chance at a new life.  One that still involved with the sea, but in a different way.  The moment he saw his new captain, he thought he knew the man.  Then the dreams started and it led him to the answers.  

I would say that this story definitely had a touch of the supernatural world going on. Although I do have to say that I absolutely hated the ending.  I think I could have done without it.  Other than that this story was a blast to read, if not a little too slow paced for me.  Georgia was a big hit along with her husband.  I do have to admit though that at some parts of the story, I just skimmed over it.  It just felt a little drawn out in some spots which is not a good thing for me.  However I still enjoyed the story and look forward to reading more by this amazing author.

Equipoise by Kim Fielding (2nd Edition)

Kim Fielding - Equipoise CoverTitle: Equipoise (2nd Edition) 

Series:  Ennek 03

Author: Kim Fielding

Genre: Fantasy

Length: Novel (204 pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 29, 2016)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Ennek, the son of the Chief, and Miner, a former slave, have escaped the totalitarian city-state of Praesidium and remain fugitives. Having defeated two mighty wizards, they begin to realize complete freedom can be as dangerous as absolute power. Now Ennek and Miner must face battles, corruption, and further journeys through lands both new and familiar.

As they grow more secure in their relationship, they learn the greatest challenges sometimes come from very close to the heart and everything of value has a price. With the help of a few allies, they seek equipoise—a balance for themselves and for their world.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-188-7

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/equipoise-by-kim-fielding-333-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: This is the third book in the Ennek series. Ennek and Miner have finally come home. Only to find things have changed since they have been gone. It is a struggle to accept the changes of this new society while at the same time dealing with their own fears.

It was a wonderfully written, if not slow, ending to an intriguing story. I loved seeing how both the MC’s interacted with each other and others. They faced foes head-on and struggled to make a life for their selves in a world where nothing is certain.

As the story progressed I hoped for Ennek and Miner’s chance to live a peaceful life without all the drama that usually ended up happening. All in all it was a great ending to a really good trilogy.

Great read.

The Zozobra Incident by Don Travis

Don Travis - The Zozobra Incident CoverTitle: The Zozobra Incident

Series: A BJ Vinson Mystery #1

Author: Don Travis

Genre: Mystery

Length: Novel (290pgs)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 15, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb:  B J Vinson, a former Albuquerque police detective turned confidential investigator, hesitates when ex-lover and now prominent attorney Del Dahlman appeals to him for help in recovering some incriminating photographs of him and the hustler who broke up their relationship. BJ reluctantly agrees to find Emilio Prada, the handsome gigolo who’s been using the photographs to impress his clientele-men and women from all strata of Albuquerque society-thinking he’ll put the case to rest in a matter of days. However, things turn deadly with a high-profile murder at the Burning of Zozobra on the opening night of the Santa Fe Fiesta, and B J becomes embroiled in a search for missing negatives, a ruthless murderer, and a way to save himself from being next on the killer’s list.

ISBN:  978-1-93707-008-3

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/the-zozobra-incident-by-don-travis-328-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  I am never sure of what to expect from an author I have never read before so I am always a bit leery of reading them.  The title is what caught my attention, but only so far as I had no clue what Zozobra actually meant.  As for the story itself let’s just say it was not what I expect.

I do have to say that I do love a good detective story or should I say a sexy man with a gun.  It is a unique story with some very interesting characters.  Although I am not sure if I actually liked it or not.  BJ was shot two years ago, which was the same time Del dumped his ass.  It would seem Del couldn’t handle blood and wounds like a true man could.  He had needs which led him to Emilio.  Emilio was a gigolo who took some very sexy pictures, and now Del needed them back.  So he goes to the one man who could help him.  Which was weird that BJ took the assignment.

Now his secretary was not one of my favorite characters but only because she didn’t much care for his lifestyle.  Complex plots, interesting story lines, and crazy characters were just a bit of what is expected from this story.  The story itself was a bit dry for me and not as entertaining as it should have been.  I hate to admit that I skimmed quite a bit from it.  

I am afraid that this story just didn’t flow right for me.  It was a bit on the slow side of things and didn’t really do much for my attention span.  I am afraid that this book sounded pretty good but when I started reading it I just couldn’t get into it.  It has great potential but failed to deliver.  I just hope the next book is a bit more entertaining.  As for this one, it just wasn’t really for me.

The Necessary Deaths by David C. Dawson

David C. Dawson - The Necessary Deaths CoverTitle: The Necessary Deaths

Series: The Delingpole Mysteries 01

Author: David C. Dawson

Genre: Gay Erotic Romance, Mystery

Length: Novel (200 Pages)

Publisher: DSP Publications (November 1, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb:  A young journalism student lies unconscious in a hospital bed in Brighton, England. His life hangs in the balance after a drug overdose. But was it attempted suicide or attempted murder? The student’s mother persuades British lawyer Dominic Delingpole to investigate, and Dominic enlists the aid of his outspoken opera singer partner, Jonathan McFadden.

The student’s boyfriend discovers compromising photographs hidden in his lover’s room. The photographs not only feature senior politicians and business chiefs, but the young journalist himself. Is he being blackmailed, or is he the blackmailer?

As Dominic and Jonathan investigate further, their lives are threatened and three people are murdered. They uncover a conspiracy that reaches into the highest levels of government and powerful corporations. The people behind it are ruthless, and no one can be trusted. The bond between Dominic and Jonathan deepens as they struggle not only for answers, but for their very survival.

ISBN:  978-1-63477-451-2    

Product Link: https://www.dsppublications.com/books/the-necessary-deaths-by-david-c-dawson-321-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  This is a new author for me so I was a bit leery of reading his work.  Never knowing what I am going to read is not my idea of fun.  However I found this story intriguing.  It was a bit slow on the up take but once it evens out, was at a pretty good pace 

Now for the title, all I can say was that it was creepy to say the least.  I was not a fan of the name to say the least.  Dominic finds out that his neighbor’s son was in the hospital for a drug overdose, it sent Dom into finding out what happened.  It is said that they just don’t know if it was a suicide or homicide.  However it also gives him a chance at seeing Jonathan, his boyfriend.  Now after the trip to the hospital and that particular talk, the story starts to speed up in pace which is a blessing to me.   

Now the characters were a bit non-descriptive and too much like everyone else.  Dom himself doesn’t stand out like he should.  He doesn’t even come off as an actual detective or investigator to me which makes it seem strange for him to actually be doing an investigating.  Now his relationship with Jonathan is dry and un-inspiring to me.  I don’t care for open relationships and never will so that lost points with me.  Plus Dom thought he couldn’t do any better than his boyfriend, and that was another loss.  He doesn’t really stand out and I had trouble connecting.

Now the whole story was dry, a bit boring and not as thought out as it should have been.  There was just too much missing for me to get into.  I seemed to not be able to connect with the story what so ever, other than the humorous parts.  What happened to the bad guys after all, I mean there is no ending to that part.  Now the story had some great potential but failed somehow.  I hate to say it but had this been a movie it would have rated pretty good but as a book it will take some getting used to it.  For me however I am afraid that this book was not for me.

Operation Better Tomorrow by Brandi Evans Blog Tour, Exclusive Excerpt & Giveaway!

Brandi Evans - Operation Better Tomorrow Banner

Hi guys, we have Brandi Evans popping in today to show off her new release Operation Better Tomorrow, we have a great exclusive excerpt for you to peek at and an awesome giveaway! So check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~ 

Brandi Evans - Operation Better Tomorrow Cover

Operation Better Tomorrow

by

Brandi Evans

The interview of a lifetime.

When Aaron Strickland’s assigned to write a feature article on Caleb Douglas, the first openly gay soldier to receive the Medal of Honor, he’s over-the-moon. Meet a sexy, real-life hero? Yes, please. And in the weeks leading up to their interview, the former soldier becomes a recurring player in Aaron’s fantasies.

A man Caleb can’t forget.

Years earlier, lost in the throes of depression and PTSD after an ambush left his body and soul scarred, Caleb was on the brink of giving up when a magazine article changed his life forever—an article written by Aaron. Emerging from the depths of his pain, Operation Better Tomorrow—part homestead, part halfway house for those down on their luck—was born.

Tragedy lurking on the horizon.

As the days pass, Caleb and Aaron’s tragic pasts bind them in ways they aren’t prepared for, but it also leaves them vulnerable. Pushing forward means breaking down walls they’ve built to protect themselves, and just as they’re poised on the precipice of happiness, a darkness descends on the homestead, a hatred that will leave one man clinging to life and the other willing to risk everything to save him.

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The Unlikely Prospect by Lex Chase Guest Post & Excerpt!

Lex Chase - The Unlikely Prospect Banner

Hiya guys! We have Lex Chase popping in today with her upcoming release The Unlikely Prospect, we have a brilliant guest post where Lex chats about writing *gasp* contemporary romance! We also have a great excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Lex Chase - The Unlikely Prospect Cover

The Unlikely Prospect

(States of Love 10: Maine)
by

Lex Chase

In Prospect Harbor, Maine, lobsterman Harper Cook has always loved the sea. He and his two brothers work the harbor waters, in a fishing village of one thousand where everybody knows everybody else’s business and nobody wants to be different.

When it’s time for the annual Men of Maine pinup calendar, Harper’s brothers eagerly volunteer him. Harper isn’t thrilled to bare it all to raise money for an elementary school playground—until he meets out-and-proud Los Angeles out-a-statah Sean Blackburn: the highly available first-grade teacher with Hollywood heartthrob looks.

Harper has no desire to ever stand out from the crowd, but Sean persists and earns Harper’s friendship. Through Sean, Harper opens up to new possibilities. Things get steamy, but Harper still protects his heart. Though   the right pressure in the right place might crack even a loner lobsterman out of his shell.

Release date: 7th December 2016

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Cowboys Don't Come Out by Tara Lain Guest Post & Excerpt!

Tara Lain - Cowboys Don't Come Out Banner

Hi guys, we have Tara Lain popping in today with her upcoming release Cowboys Don’t Come Out, Tara has a fantastic guest post where she chats about cowboys and we have a great excerpt so you can get a taste of the story, so check out the post and enjoy the excerpt! <3 ~Pixie~

tara-lain-cowboys-dont-come-out-cover

Cowboys Don’t Come Out

by

Tara Lain

Rand McIntyre settles for good enough. He loves his small California ranch, raising horses, and teaching riding to the kids he adores—but having kids of his own and someone to love means coming out, and that would jeopardize everything he’s built. Then, despite his terror of flying, he goes on a holiday to Hana, Hawaii with his parents and meets the dark and mysterious Kai Kealoha, a genuine Hawaiian cowboy. Rand takes to Kai’s kid brother and sister as much as he drools over Kai, but the guy sports more prickles than a horned toad, and more secrets than the exotic land he comes from.

Kai’s earned his privacy and lives to protect his “kids.” He ought to stay away from the big, handsome cowboy for everyone’s sake—but since the guy’s just a haole on a short vacation, how much damage can he do? When all of Kai’s worst fears and Rand’s darkest nightmares come true at once, there’s not much chance for two cowboys who can’t—or won’t—come out.

Release date: 7th December 2016

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Braeton & Drew by A.D. Ellis Blog Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway!

A.D. Ellis - Braeton & Drew Something About Him BT Banner

Hi guys, we have A.D. Ellis stopping by today with the tour for her new release Breaton & Drew, we have a great excerpt, some tasty teasers and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and click that giveaway link! <3 ~Pixie~

a-d-ellis-braeton-drew-something-about-him-cover-l

Braeton & Drew

(Something About Him 04)
by

A.D. Ellis

Braeton Reed left his small-minded hometown and disapproving family long ago and never looked back.

Andrew Hines has nothing against a solid, loving relationship; he just isn’t sure he’ll ever find one.

Braeton has been told he’s a bit of a diva. Andrew has heard he’s not flashy enough. Can their differences pull them together? Or will these polar opposites allow society to dictate who they are and who they love?

** This is a male/male romance meant for ages 18+ due to adult language and adult situations.**

Amazon ★ KoboNookAReiBooks

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As It Should Be by Sean Michael Guest Post & Excerpt!

Sean Michael - As It Should Be Banner

Hi peeps! We have Sean Michael popping in with his upcoming release As It Should Be, we have a brilliant guest post where Sean chats briefly about the Windbrothers’ world, and we have a great excerpt, so guys, check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Sean Michael - As It Should Be Cover

As It Should Be

(A Windbrothers Collection)
by

Sean Michael

Set in the sweeping Windbrothers’ world, where magic users and their sworn mates find each other through a process of trial and error, these stories, which take place long before the events in Desert, explore the different ways that ba’chi and hi’icha come together to become ki’ita. For every magic user, there is a grounding force to steady him, and neither half of the pair feels whole until he finds his destined lover.

Some mates discover each other with relative ease, while others have a harder time uniting with their designated partners, and the world they live in can be accepting, cruel, or even indifferent. From a shape-shifter with a secret to a pair of twins who think they’ll never find their lover, Sean Michael gives us a lot to love, just as it should be, in these stories sure to tug at your heart.

Release date: 6th December 2016
Pre-order: DSP Publications

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The Sorcerer's Guardian by Antonia Aquilante

Antonia Aquilante - The Sorcerer's Guardian CoverTitle: The Sorcerer’s Guardian

Series:  A Tale of Tournai # 4

Author: Antonia Aquilante

Genre: High Fantasy

Length: Novel (310 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 28, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.75 Hearts

Blurb: Savarin, the most powerful sorcerer in Tournai, has honed his Talent through years of study and made magic his life. Among the wealthy and noble circles he moves in, no one would suspect the handsome, refined, and arrogant sorcerer’s humble beginnings, which is how Savarin prefers it. Tournai’s princes task Savarin with studying and strengthening the spells that protect the principality from magical attack. They are complex, centuries old, and exactly the type of puzzle Savarin is eager to solve. To his annoyance, the princes insist Loriot accompany him.

Loriot worked his way up the ranks of the royal guard to captain and takes pride in his service. He must obey the princes’ orders to protect Savarin, despite believing his skills would be best used elsewhere. And despite his wariness of magic. UnTalented himself, he has learned not only the benefits of magic but also its potential for harm—and how to counter it. Loriot and Savarin clash during their journey, but there’s another reason for the tension between them, and passion develops into feelings neither expected. But Savarin must still fortify Tournai’s magical barrier, and his only solution endangers both him and the royal family.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-852-7

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-sorcerers-guardian-by-antonia-aquilante-7765-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Savarin is a powerful sorcerer sent on a mission to find the weaknesses in the protection spells surrounding Tournai and determine how they came to be that way. What he does not expect is for the prince to assign someone to go with him as protection. 

Loriat is the captain of the royal guard tasked, much to his displeasure, in protecting Savarin on his journey. The Captain thinks Savarin is arrogant and standoffish. But he is still attracted to him.

The first 100 pages is basically these two men ignoring one another yet expressing their thoughts for the readers. I find I did not connect with either character as the story progressed. The so called strong feelings each expressed I did not believe. Caring for one another yes. But love? No.

I loved the plot of the book. The protective spells that surround Tournai are weak in spots and Savarin is tasked to come up with a way to fix them. The way they are explained was fascinating and complex. I have to admit I cared more about the spells than the characters themselves.

There is a lot of drama and angst in this book between the two MC’s. The mystery surrounding the protection spells and what was happening to them pulled me into the story as I read more. All in all it was a good read.

The Closet Boy by Sean Michael

Sean Michael - The Closet Boy CoverTitle: The Closet Boy 

Series: Iron Eagle Gym 04

Author: Sean Michael

Genre: Contemporary, BDSM

Length: Novel (214 pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 25, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Way’ra Bernard is only twenty years old when his parents kick him out of the house. He has been brought up to believe being gay is wrong and he is going to go to hell for it. He tried very hard not to be gay but couldn’t change the way he felt. Now he’s living furtively in a closet on the third floor of the place he’s working as a janitor—the Iron Eagle Gym.

Neal McPherson is an unattached Dom in his midtwenties and a member of the gym. One evening after working out, he notices Way’ra on the stairs and he’s immediately attracted and intrigued, so he asks Way’ra out. Unable to come up with a reason to refuse and also interested in Neal, Way’ra accepts.

There are a lot of obstacles to the relationship they attempt to build after their date, not least of which is Way’ra’s upbringing and his lingering doubts about the kinky sex Neal enjoys. But with patience and persistence, Neal might convince Way’ra not only to accept himself, but to loosen his inhibitions enough to explore and find a happy ending together.

ISBN-13: 978-1-63477-695-0

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/the-closet-boy-by-sean-michael-7805-b

Reviewer: Shorty 

Review: Way’ra is a man struggling to make ends meet after his religious family so cruelly kicked him out for catching him with another man. Because of the way he was brought up he thinks being gay is wrong and so hides his sexuality. I thought Way was sweet and shy. He should not have been made to feel what he desired was anything to be ashamed of.

With no money and nowhere to go he gets a job at the Iron Eagle Gym. He stays in the supply closet at night and eats when he can. One day Master Neal introduces himself and invites to coffee. Despite being terrified he accepts. 

Neal was so strong and caring regarding Way. I loved that he took his time waiting for Way to come out of his shell. He felt a strong pull to the young man and wanted to help him anyway he could especially after seeing how he lived and what happened.

With Neal’s help Way begins to heal from the damage that was done to him and begins to live again without fear. I loved how caring Neal was with Way. This is an emotional yet hot book with plenty of steamy encounters.

When The Dust Settles by Mary Calmes

Mary Calmes - When The Dust Settles CoverTitle: When the Dust Settles

Series: Timing 03

Author: Mary Calmes

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novella (107 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (November 16, 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate  

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Glenn Holloway’s predictable life ended the day he confessed his homosexuality to his family. As if that wasn’t enough, he then poured salt in the wound by walking away from the ranch he’d grown up on, to open the restaurant he’d always dreamed of. Without support from his father and brother, and too proud to accept assistance from anyone else, he had to start from scratch. Over time things worked out: Glenn successfully built a strong business, created a new home, and forged a life he could be proud of.

Despite his success, his estrangement from the Holloways is still a sore spot he can’t quite heal, and a called-in favor becomes Glenn’s worst nightmare. Caught in a promise, Glenn returns to his roots to deal with Rand Holloway and comes face-to-face with Mac Gentry, a man far too appealing for Glenn’s own good. It could all lead to disaster—disaster for his tenuous reconnection with his family and for the desire he didn’t know he held in his heart.

ISBN: 978-1-61372-092-9

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/when-the-dust-settles-by-mary-calmes-7779-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  Now even though this is book three in the series, I do believe that you can read it by itself.  However I would suggest reading the books in order, because there are just a few spots that can get confusing without knowing a bit more about the other stories.  However once again it is not needed though.

It has a serious tone to it but the humor is even matched.  The story is fully developed and the characters were a blast.  For such a shorter story then I have seen from this author, I was quite pleased with just how full it seemed to be.  It was not drawn out and very nicely paced for her readers.  The guys made it seem even better to me.  I was also glad to see Stefan and Rand again.

Stefan calls Glenn for just a bit of help.  His eyes set on Mac and let’s just say you can feel the heat coming from these two.  Glenn has his life the way he wants it, with success with his restaurant and life is going good.  He was just missing that special someone in his life, and Mac is it for him.  However if you want to see the chemistry, you must read the book.  Let’s just say, smoking hot.

Now as much as I loved the first two, this one gave me a bit more even though it is a smaller story.  I was very glad to have found that it was going to be about a new character and not the same ones from the first two books.  I don’t really care for characters that are the main thing from one book to the next.  So for me this new couple rocked it perfectly.  However you must read the book if you want to find out just how hot these two were.  I have to admit that I would have loved to have both guys POV’s, however Mary wrote it just right. 

It was a lot of fun to read and can’t wait for another one. 

After The Sunset by Mary Clames (2nd Edition)

Mary Calmes - After the Sunset CoverTitle: After the Sunset (2nd Edition)

Series: Timing 02

Author: Mary Calmes

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novella (169 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (2nd November 2016)     

Heat Level: Moderate  

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Two years after riding off into the sunset with ranch owner Rand Holloway, Stefan Joss has made a tentative peace with his new life, teaching at a community college. But the course of true love never does run smooth. Rand wants him home on the ranch; Stef wants an exit strategy in case Rand ever decides to throw him out. Finally, after recognizing how unfair he’s being, Stef makes a commitment, and Rand is over the moon.

When Stef gets the chance to prove his devotion, he doesn’t hesitate—despite the risk to his health—and Rand takes the opportunity to show everyone that sometimes life’s best surprises come after the sunset.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-713-1

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/after-the-sunset-by-mary-calmes-7707-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  Well our sexy men have been together for two years and I have to say that you need to read this series in order.  You will find out about their fighting and how they just seemed to click.  Trust me you need to read the first book.

Now Stefan has his head up his ass when it comes to Rand.  Rand wants him to move in at the ranch, but Stefan just doesn’t trust their love to withstand such a move.  The man needs a good swift kick in the ass.  However you can see that it is what he wants to do.  Now if you want the juicy details, well you are just going to have to read the story.  

The more you look at these two men; you can feel the heat coming from them.  Here you have a man that is smart as hell when it comes to business but the rest of his life, well he is just a man.  Rand is so damn alpha that it will make you just hot from watching him rope in his man.  The family dynamics that they are dealing with just make it seem more real.  

I do love the humor that is mixed in with the serious tone.  I can’t really stand a boring story with no humor, and this one was anything but boring.  Now I for one do not really care for cowboys and what comes with them but damn if this author doesn’t change my mind.  I definitely do love the rodeo and Stefan’s clever idea that will probably get his ass kicked.  I also would just shoot Rand’s family, but then again that is me. 

Trust me on this; you have got to read this book.  Love trumps family all the way around. 

Timing by Mary Calmes (2nd Edition)

Mary Clames - Timing CoverTitle: Timing (2nd Edition)

Series: Timing 01

Author: Mary Calmes

Genre: Contemporary 

Length: Novel (204 Pages)

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (19th October 2016)     

Heat Level: Moderate  

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Stefan Joss just can’t win. Not only does he have to go to Texas in the middle of summer to be the man of honor in his best friend Charlotte’s wedding, but he’s expected to negotiate a million-dollar business deal at the same time. Worst of all, he’s thrown for a loop when he arrives to see the one man Charlotte promised wouldn’t be there: her brother, Rand Holloway. 

Stefan and Rand have been mortal enemies since the day they met, so Stefan is shocked when a temporary cease-fire sees the usual hostility replaced by instant chemistry. Though leery of the unexpected feelings, Stefan is swayed by a sincere revelation from Rand, and he decides to give Rand a chance. 

But their budding romance is threatened when Stefan’s business deal goes wrong: the owner of the last ranch he needs to secure for the company is murdered. Stefan’s in for the surprise of his life as he finds himself in danger as well.

ISBN: 978-1-63477-712-4

Product Link: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/books/timing-by-mary-calmes-7652-b

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  I have read a few of this authors work and have always been fascinated by the worlds she creates for her guys.  Although I have to admit that I have my favorites out of them though.  This one was a very catchy little story and will tell you right off the bat that the cover rocked.  It was definitely a very quirky looking cover.  

I love how there is humor mixed in with a serious tone to them, which for me is a plus. I can’t stand a story that is long, drawn out and no humor.  Now for me the murder was very strange and easy to figure out.  However it was still pretty damn good, not to mention the sexy men who started out at war and soon found love.  Sounds a bit cheesy to me but for is always fun to watch.

Wow, you get a sexy cowboy and a very strange hipster type guy in this. They are at war with each other, and when asked to come to the wedding, well let’s just say there are a few shocks.  Stefan’s best friend swears her brother isn’t coming, and well you guessed it.  To top it off Stefan’s deal is not going the way it is supposed to.  And then the murder happens, well you will just have to read the story.

I had a great time reading it, although I have to admit that it was just a bit drawn out, but the humor made it work.  Now what made this work even more for me, is it wasn’t a sexual heat over the wedding but it took them some time to see what the other is to them.  I am never one for cowboy type stories but the murder made it perfect for me.  I enjoyed the book and will start reading the next book as soon as I finish this review. 

I would recommend reading this and let you fall in love with these two.

So Into You by Remmy Duchene

Remmy Duchene - So Into You CoverTitle: So Into You

Series: INTOXICATION #1

Author: Remmy Duchene

Genre:  Contemporary

Length:  Novella (125 pages)

Publisher: Pride Publishing (15th March 2016)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb:  Alfred Leung’s life is in the crapper. From his gold-digging, racist mother and a cheating ex-boyfriend to his hang-ups about sex—everything in his existence depresses him. Add to it spending his days serving faux French food in a diner. It isn’t how he planned on spending the rest of his life—the fates have definitely conspired against him. Just out of a relationship, he decides to focus on work and going back to one of the things that makes him happy—photography. Then Darius Stark in his Armani suit walks through the door of the diner, and Alfred’s world is about to take on a spin he never saw coming.

Darius Stark hasn’t been with a man in years. Men see the suit and run screaming in the other direction or they tear-ass toward him because they see dancing dollar signs. He decides to focus on his business, but soon he’s buried himself so deeply in his work that years goes by without someone to love. Finally, he sees Alfred and wants him, but Darius is about to find out not everyone thinks he’s almighty and that some men are flawed.

ISBN: 9781786513878

Reviewer: Veronica

Purchase Link: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/so-into-you

Review: Darius Starks is a man that have given up on Relationships and Love. He’s tired of people looking at him and seeing Dollar signs, being with him only when they want something or they’re afraid of him. Alfred not to long got out of a bad relationship, where his ex cheated on him, and another having hang-ups about Sex. They both want to be Loved for who they are on the inside, and not for their outer appearance.

Alfred’s mother is a piece of work, she’s Racist, she doesn’t approve of her son being Gay, but yet she wants him to stay in a bad relationship because it benefits her, money-wise. She doesn’t care if her son is happy or not.

From the moment, Darius walked into the Diner that Alfred works in, Alfred becomes weak in the knees and has an instant attraction to Darius, but thinks that there’s no way that Darius would look at him in a sexual way. After a misunderstanding at their second meeting. Darius sets out to change Alfred’s mind about him.

Guarding His Mark by S.A. Welsh

S.A. Welsh - Guarding His Mark CoverTitle: Guarding His Mark

Series: Shifter Protection Specialists Inc. #3

Author: S.A. Welsh

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novel (203 Pages)

Publisher: Pride Publishing (September 13, 2016)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Beware the bite of a king.

Khan is a king cobra shifter with a serious mistrust of anyone outside his brothers at Shifter Protection Specialists, Inc. and has good reason for it after he was subjected to the whims and experiments of a mad scientist as a teenager. Since becoming part of a real family, he’s thrived in his job as a close-protection specialist.

One night he meets a pretty human who interests him on a level he hasn’t experienced before, but old fears and revelations force him to put distance between them. Unable to stay away, Khan creates the persona of a courier to deliver the venom Casey needs to see exactly what the human will do.

Dr. Casey Jameson is working toward a deadline. He needs snake shifter venom to continue his research and create a cure to save someone he loves. When he goes in search of a donor, he meets Khan, but he’s confronted with the irresistible, roughness of Khan and he ends up taking the shifter home for the night. However, when Khan finds out who and what he is, Khan leaves him high and dry.

The appearance of Roan, a courier, in his life is perfect timing, but Casey may get more than he bargains for and will soon have to think carefully about who he can trust if he wants to live long enough to complete his work.

When an old lover and boss becomes a real threat to Casey’s safety, Khan must come clean and keep Casey safe before they both lose something precious. 

ISBN: 978-1-78651-430-1

Product Link: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/guarding-his-mark

Reviewer: Lisa

Review:  Each book in the Shifter Protection Specialists Inc. collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order.  

I am fascinated with the worlds and characters that this author has written about.  There are very few good romance books that involve such different types of shifters, that when one comes out I just have to read it.  In this one our hero is one nice sexy king cobra shifter, who has a bit of a chip on his shoulder.  

I love how there is a serious tone to it, but that it is equally matched with humor. I can’t stand a book that has no humor in it; I would rather be laughing then just sitting there.  There is always lust, love, hot sex and a good amount of danger placed in these stories that keeps my attention as well. 

Casey and Khan had met at a club some time ago, but the moment Casey mentioned scientist and experiments Khan had ran.  He hadn’t listened to why Casey was interested in snake shifter venom.  However over time, he wanted to give him a chance but he used a different name.  So when time came by for him to reveal himself, well Casey did what any good human would do.  Now it is going to take time to trust each other once more, but first they have to get rid of his creepy ex-boyfriend and the danger that is coming for them all.

Khan had his family try to kill him when it showed how powerful a snake he was, then sold to scientist so he was not going to be placed into that position again.  The problem was Casey just might be his mate.  Then when he finds out why it is so important, well you have to read the book to find out. 

To me there is nothing better than a good romance, but when it is a paranormal then it hits higher marks to me. I love them especially when there are some gorgeous men in some kinky situations. I can honestly tell you that this is going to be one of those types of series that you can’t put down and have to read more than once. It is the perfect story for me and gave me all that I needed. I love the way all the feelings they felt was involved in this story.

I had a blast reading it and I can’t wait to read the next story.

Purrfect Protector by S.A. Welsh

23492162Title: Purrfect Protector

Series: Shifter Protection Specialists Inc. #1

Author: S.A. Welsh

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (155 Pages)

Publisher: Pride Publishing (January 30, 2015)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating:  ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Never play cat and mouse with a saber-tooth tiger.

Kale Andrews is dragged to the Shifter Protection Specialists Inc. office by his brother when he gets disturbing mail from an obsessed fan. He reluctantly agrees to have a bodyguard but when a the tall muscular blond walks in to the office emanating power and a sexy dose of danger Kale’s doubts about needing the man with him twenty four hours a day quickly disappear. 

The easy babysitting job Aleksi was promised quickly changes from strange mail to threatening deliveries and Aleksi has to get creative to get his protectee out of the line of fire. Everyone knows models are self-centred and shallow, so why does being with Kale make him feel like he finally has a home? Being a saber-tooth tiger means that most people aren’t strong enough to be with him in a relationship or even as friends, he’s too naturally dominant. Yet Kale seems to calm his beast at the same time as exciting the man in him.

Neither men expected nor wanted a relationship with strings, but as they grow closer Aleksi realizes that Kale might just be his mate. With the obsessed fan escalating to murder, Aleksi isn’t sure even his tiger can keep his mate safe.

ISBN: 978-1-78430-388-4

Product Link: https://www.pride-publishing.com/book/purrfect-protector

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I have to say that I picked this book just because of the series name.  The title came next, I knew it was going be so good and let’s just say it was.  There is a serious tone to it but the humor was equal maxed for a reader.  I really loved Kale’s brother’s reaction to Alexsi’s tiger.  That rocked the whole book and I spent most of the time laughing my ass off.  

This book caught my attention from the moment I started reading and I couldn’t put it down.  It gave me everything I could ask for in a story and so much more.  You don’t read many saber-tooth tiger shifters in stories so it was very unique and made me want it just a bit more.  I enjoyed the way the characters just seem to mesh with each other.  It is action packed and fully developed for a better story.  I loved the world that this author created and the guys just brought out a smile in me.

Kale is a sexy little model, who has a very demented psycho coming after him.  He is not too worried, but his brother is freaked out.  So he now has one hell of a hot bodyguard pretending to be his lover, but it isn’t a stretch to make it real.  Alexsi is turned on by just looking at the man, but he is bound and determined to keep him safe.  

This was an amazing story that I can see will make the top five favorite’s list of mine.  It is also going to be one of those stories that gets read many times over.  I had a lot of fun with it and look forward to reading the next book. 

I would definitely recommend it.