Eugene and the Box of Nails by Jaime Samms

Title: Eugene and the Box of Nails

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Jaime Samms

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1, 2017)

Length: Short Story

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Blurb: Every time it seems like things are looking up for Eugene Kraft, disaster hits. Bankruptcy, a bigoted sibling, and a back-breaking accident have all left him with little money and less faith in the universe.

His last-ditch effort at peace is the small lakeside property where he is building a tiny house from recycled materials. If he can get it livable before the cold sets in, maybe he’ll be okay. Hopefully Cullen, the foreman on the construction site next door, won’t notice Eugene pilfering discarded materials from his dumpster.

When Cullen stops by to talk to Eugene, he’s sure the gig is up—but all Cullen wants is a date. Can two things go right in Eugene’s life? At first it seems possible. Projects on Eugene’s house are getting completed by what he dubs “construction elves” while he’s off site. But like Eugene predicted, his good fortune can’t last, and soon he has a tough choice to make: give up his home… or the man of his dreams.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-316-9

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Eugene is a sweet young man who has had a hard life. He had not been able to read for many years, went to work with his brother who turned around and stole his money because he was gay, lost his job because of an injury and lost his home. He had to start all over. He bought some cheap land that couldn’t really be used and started building himself a home. Since he was broke you will have to guess where he got his equipment. However it was starting to get real cold. When the foreman from the site he had been grabbing old materials out of shows up, he is real surprised when Cullen tells him why.

This has made my day. Although I understand Eugene’s reason for wanting to do it all on his own, it does show how good some neighbors can be. I absolutely loved this story and would hope that it was going to added onto later on. It was the perfect Christmas story I have came across in a long time.

I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it.

The Werewolf Before Christmas by Charles Payseur

Title: The Werewolf Before Christmas

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Charles Payseur

Genre: Christmas, Paranormal, Holiday

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 30, 2017)

Length: Short Story (35 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Ray seems like the perfect boyfriend—he’s gorgeous, incredibly romantic, and has a mechanical suit he invented to become the dastardly MantaRay. For Alec, who also spends his nights making life difficult for do-gooders everywhere, it’s a match made in supervillain heaven. Except that Ray is a bit too into the hit soap opera All My Werewolves. When tempers flare during what’s supposed to be a quiet night out, Alec nearly ruins everything over a stupid bet with an alien gorilla.

Desperate to prove his feelings to Ray, and with Christmas fast approaching, Alec decides the fastest way to Ray’s heart is to embrace the thing that threatens to divide them—a certain werewolf show with a certain actor who Ray admires. A simple kidnapping promises to do the trick, only fur (and fandom) fly when Alec’s romantic gesture leads to a very hairy situation. Can Alec prove to Ray how much their relationship means to him, or will his plans be ruined by the werewolf before Christmas?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-315-2

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Alec and Ray are supervillians. Although they really don’t act like it though. Alec wanted to show Ray how he truly felt for Christmas. However his weird side wouldn’t turn down a bet by Ray’s best friend. Now he really had to make plans. Ray loved this soap opera called All My Werewolves. It involved a good twin and an evil twin werewolves, played by the same guy. So Alec made a plan that involved the actor, boy is he in for a major shock and surprise.

While I was wanting a good paranormal story, this was not what I had expected. It had a pretty good twist to it that was pretty cool. I am not much into superhero’s and supervillian’s, but this story kind of made it rock. It was an adventure that is for sure.

I had a kick reading it and I am pretty sure you will also.

Romancing The Ugly Duckling by Clare London ~ Audiobook

Title: Romancing the Ugly Duckling

Series: Dreamspun Desires 36 / Romancing The… Book 2

Author: Clare London

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 7 hrs, 15 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (19^th June 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Is this the makeover of a lifetime?

Ambitious fashionista Perry Goodwood lands the project of his dreams – track down a celebrity family’s missing brother in the Scottish Highlands and bring him back to London for a TV reality show. But first he must transform the rugged loner into a glamorous sophisticate.

Greg Ventura has no use for high fashion. He lives on the isolated island of North Uist to escape the reminder that he’s nowhere near as handsome as his gorgeous brothers and to avoid the painful childhood memories of being bullied.

Greg wants nothing to do with city life, and Perry’s never been outside London. When Perry is stranded on North Uist, this conflict seems insurmountable. But Greg is captivated by the vivacious Perry, and Perry by both the island and his host. However, Perry’s one heartfelt wish remains: that ugly duckling Greg fulfill his potential as a swan.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: There is a lot for me to love with this book. Firstly, I love the author – I love the sweet English romances by Clare London. I suppose to sum up her writing in a word would be “enchanting”. I loved the first book in this series and that is absolutely true of the second book. Secondly, I love reading about someone meeting their true love and finally seeing themselves in the beautiful light that their love interest sees them. I find that truly uplifting, to see self esteem grow over the course of a book, because hey, I can be sappy. And thirdly, the audio book to me was the sheer enjoyment of listening to Joel Leslie, I’m pretty sure for the first time, and loving every moment of the hustle and bustle of England and the calm solitude of the Scottish Highlands (and yes, I am an Outlander fan and have been for a decade, I blame that!).

Greg Ventura is the guy who left the hustle and bustle of the city to live in an island in the Scottish Highlands. He comes from a family and famous, ridiculously good looking and ridiculously talented brothers. He’s the Ugly Duckling. He doesn’t think that he is as good looking as his brothers – mostly because his brothers instilled this thought into his mind. But now his brothers are calling on him again. They need him to be part of a reality TV show and look like a happy family.

That’s how Greg meets Perry (Peregrine) Goodwood. Perry is an ambitious about his career as a designer/fashionista. It’s hard to explain his career except that he is the guy that does the fashion makeovers. He’s been hired by Greg’s brothers to find Greg, make him over and get him to London to his family. The problem is that Perry gets more than he bargained for when he discovers the gentle, carefree soul that is Grey Ventura – very much unlike his brothers. On top of all that, he needs to be in London because he needs his job desperately, as mistakes from his past threaten to keep him in debt for longer than he can handle.

I love the story and the whirlwind Scottish romance. It is as simple as that. It appeals to that side of me that loves everything about British dramas and the Scottish Highlands (even with all his rain and cold).

Fire and Hail by Andrew Grey ~ Audiobook

Title: Fire and Hail

Series: Carlisle Cops 05

Author: Andrew Grey

Narrator: Randy Fuller

Genre: Contemporary, Cops

Length: 6 hrs, 29 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (23^rd March 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Brock Ferguson knew he might run into his ex-boyfriend, Vincent Geraldini, when he took his first job as a police officer in Carlisle. Vincent’s attitude during a routine traffic stop reminds Brock why their relationship didn’t last.

What Brock doesn’t expect is finding two scared children in the trunk of a Corvette. He’s also surprised to learn the kids’ mother is Vincent’s sister. But his immediate concern is the safety of the two children, Abey and Penny, and he offers to comfort and care for them when their mother is taken into custody.

Vincent is also shocked to learn what his sister has done. For the sake of the kids, he and Brock bury the hatchet – and soon find they have much more in common than they realized. With Abey and Penny’s help, they grow closer, until the four of them start to feel like a family. But Vincent’s sister and her boyfriend – an equal-opportunity jerk – could tear down everything they’re trying to build.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Fire and Hail is the fifth installment of Andrew Grey’s wonderful (and I say must read) series, Carlisle Cops. I love a good romance with cops, but for me Andrew Grey is a must read. He has rarely let me down every time I pick up a book or listen to an audio. I’m not sure if the series can go as a standalone, pretty sure it could, but I would admit going back and treating yourself to the previous four books. The reason I say that I am pretty sure it can be read as standalone because the plot is independent from the rest of the stories, but there are plenty of interactions with previous main characters in the Carlisle Cops series. I sort of remembered these guys but I didn’t go back to the ebooks while listening to this audio (which is something I do with some series to refresh my mind). The romance is hot and the attraction is there, I love how it developed through the book (I don’t like books that start with an explosion and then fizzle out).

As I said, I love Andrew Grey’s writing. I could gush about it all day (seriously, can I be the leader of the Andrew Grey Fan Club if there ever needs to be such an entity?). But the really, it all comes down to an easy to follow writing style with engaging characters and often some of the sweetest kids. In addition, Randy Fuller narrates a number of Grey’s books and I really enjoy the voice he gives all the main characters as well as the kids that are in their lives.

As to the plot itself: Brock Ferguson left Carlisle some years ago but he’s back now and is the newest member of the police force. He always knew that going back to Carlisle could mean that he could run into his ex-boyfriend, Vincent Geraldini. And of course, he does run into the man, when Brock pulls Vincent over for a routine traffic stop. Vincent attitude is pretty foul – he doesn’t give the reader the best introduction – and serves to vindicate Brock as to why they are ex. But shortly later, Brock finds Vincent’s neglected niece and nephew locked in the boot of a car and Vincent is once again apart of Brock’s life. Especially when it becomes clear that Abey and Penny like Brock and find it hard when Brock isn’t around after their mother (Vincent’s estranged sister) is arrested.

It’s a complicated story line and matures into a well developed plot – with a romance that is all about second chances. I like how Brock and Vincent’s second chance shows that both men have changed for the better and there has always been a deep connection between the two. It just seems that they finally in the right place at the right time.

Extrasensual Perception by Rayne Vause ~ Audiobook

Title: Extrasensual Perception

Series: Dreamspun Desires 26

Author: Rayna Vause

Narrator: John Solo

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: 5 hrs, 45 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (22^nd February 2017)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: If a stalker doesn’t kill them, the heat between them might.

Christopher Vincent is desperate enough for a job that he accepts an offer to entertain as a psychic in a friend’s nightclub. Jackson Whitman, one of the club’s co-owners, is less than thrilled by the new act. To him, psychics are ridiculous and a liability. But when they come face-to-face, attraction flares to life between them.

Someone is watching Jack and Chris from the shadows. What starts as a series of creepy encounters leads to deadly attacks.

Jack and Chris must set aside their differences and work together to survive a homicidal stalker. But can they survive their explosive connection?

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Extrasensual Perception by Rayna Vause is something that is very tricky for me to review. The blurb drew me in, the plot itself I enjoyed and I really did love the two MCs. I’m totally sure if I’ve read anything by Vause in the past, but I have to say that I liked the writing style too. However, there was something about it that left me feeling flat and just a tad bit … well, meh.

The story starts out with Christopher Vincent, he’s a good guy but down on his luck – like many MCs in books – and just like many MCs in romance books he’s desperate to find a job. And just like many other romances, the second MC and love interest is the best friend’s brother, the very hot, very macho and serious businessman Jackson Whitman. Christopher gives in to his best friend’s pleas to act as psychic in her new co-owned club which gimmick is a carnival. The trouble being that Christopher, much like his mother, does actually has legit psychic ability. I don’t suppose this book really falls into the realm of Dreamspinner Press’s new line, Dreamspun Beyond, but the whole psychic thing was a little quirky and a very enjoyable side to the story.

This is where all the drama starts. With Jackson’s sister, Chris’s best friend, being the target of a stalker Chris is a race against time to understand the glimpses his gift gives him in order to save the day. The romance between Jackson and Chris gives off massive sparks from the get go, I will admit that there is good dose of insta-love, but the romance rolls along well with the rest of the plot. In short, I’m just trying to say that it all rolls up in a neat package that makes sense.

As always I found the narration by John Solo flawless. I have loved his narration of every book I’ve heard him do. He just has a knack for nailing the voices and emotions of the main characters, as well as the secondary characters. I honestly don’t know what left me feeling a little flat about the whole story. I did enjoy it and personally I think it would the perfect book to listen to when you’re trying to unwind – especially if you’ve just read an intense book that leaves you utterly shattered.

Devotion by Grace R. Duncan ~ Audiobook

Title: Devotion

Series: Forbes Mates 01

Author: Grace R Duncan

Narrator: Joel Leslie

Genre: Paranormal

Length: 9 hrs, 12 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (23^rd June 2017)

Heat Level: Explicit

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Finley Cooper is tired of waiting for his destined mate to be ready to claim him. In deference to human laws, he’s already agreed to wait until he’s 18. But now his birthday has come and gone-and his mate has a new set of excuses. Finley doesn’t understand it any more than his wolf does, and he’s beginning to wonder if fate made a mistake.

Tanner Pearce wants nothing more than to claim his mate, but he worries that Finley is too young. Tanner will never forget what happened when his best friend mated at Finley’s age, only to have that mate end up feeling trapped and breaking their bond. While rare, it can happen, and the fallout Tanner witnessed as his best friend tried to deal with the break has haunted him for years.

When Finley finally has enough, he threatens to find someone who will claim him if Tanner doesn’t, and Tanner realizes he needs to come to terms with his fears or risk losing his mate forever.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: After reading the blurb I was really looking forward to Devotion by Grace R Duncan. I’ve read a couple books by the author in the past but I don’t really have a strong opinion one way or the other beyond liking the author’s writing style. This is the second book I’ve heard narrated by Joel Leslie and for me, it was his narration that totally made the audio for me – particularly when I was ready to skip chapters.

The story is about Finley Cooper and tanner Pearce. Finley thinks that his mate doesn’t want him sometimes. He agreed to wait until he was 18 to be claimed, but when his birthday comes around his mate doesn’t want to claim him yet. Seriously, it’s not difficult to feel for Finley in every way at this point. I was ready to not totally like Tanner but I knew that there was going to be sob story of some sort that would make me fall in love with him as well. And for Tanner that is the emotional scars of seeing a similar mating fail – but of course he had completely misunderstood that. I’m not going to say much more because this is essentially the bones of the story.

As I already said, Joel Leslie’s audio helped me a lot. There was plenty of romance, steamy sex and a good chunk of angst, so I suppose like many other reviewers for this story, the word “cheesy” seems apt. I’m not a fan of a lot of angst, but it went well with the rest of the story.

The one thing that I really had trouble with was that the entire story was predicated on, essentially, a series of misunderstandings and miscommunication. It is one of my pet hates when it comes to romance, so I have to admit that I was a tad bit disappointed about that. Overall this is your typical shifter love story and despite my rating I did enjoy listening because for better or worse, these guys were made for each other and they shared real chemistry on the page.

Breaking Bonds by Ari McKay ~ Audiobook

Title: Breaking Bonds

Series: Dreamspun Desires 35 / The Walker Boys 2

Author: Ari McKay

Narrator: Dorian Bane

Genre: Contemporary

Length: 5 hrs, 26 mins

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15th June 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: From the frying pan into the fire.

After a critic’s review attacks both Chef Liam Walker’s culinary skills and his personal life, Liam can no longer take the heat of the cutthroat New York City restaurant scene. He needs to get out of the kitchen – at least long enough to cool down and regroup.

At the Overlook Resort in North Carolina, Liam meets owner Carter Galloway. Carter has a passion for the hospitality business to rival Liam’s own, and it’s not hard to see where their shared interests – and attraction – could lead. But Carter has no interest in a fling, and Liam has no intention of walking away from the career he fought so hard for. If they want a taste of happiness together, they’ll have to find the courage to break the bonds threatening to pull them apart.

Product Link: Audible US | Audible UK

Reviewer: Prime

Review: I’ve read and reviewed this book before, and this is one of the few times where my opinion hasn’t changed to give it a higher rating. I’m not totally familiar with Ari McKay’s work, but from what I got in the present series, I have to say that this is one author I’m keen to read more from. Breaking Bonds is the second book in The Walker Boys series. The books are only related in so much that one MC (the Walker boys) from each both books are actually cousins. You don’t necessarily need to go back except for a thoroughly enjoyable story which I liked a lot.

Breaking Bonds is a highly enjoyable story – a little predictable and had me thinking of rating this only 3.5/5 but in the end I couldn’t do it. In the end this is lovely and sweet romance that holds up its own and like the first book it’s a good read for fellow Food Channel addicts.

The story’s MCs are Liam Walker and Carter Galloway. Liam Walker had made his career in New York City in the, forgive the pun, cut throat cooking/restaurant industry. Liam is a world of difference away from Liam. He owns and runs a North Carolina resort. Like Liam is passionate about food, Carter is passionate about hospitality. It’s not difficult to see why the sparks fly when Liam offers Carter some much needed help to get his resort’s restaurant up to scratch. It’s also perfectly charming to see Liam come to a number of realizations about what makes him passionate about his job as he gets to know Carter more.

As I said, I had initially thought the book a tad bit predictable – in so far that I conjured up a few books I’ve read in the past and thought this was a good mix of them. But ultimately, these guys have a wonderful chemistry which is what really stuck with the most from this book. They are definitely the reason why I fell in love with the story, which in the end, isn’t that exactly what an author strives for when they write a story? Dorian Bane’s voice for the narration was absolutely wonderful too, I love his deep voice. He performs the characters wonderfully.

The only thing that is really bugging me is the title, I’m not totally sold on it being related to the story. I get where it comes from, sort of, but I look at the title and don’t recall the story I heard – which I usually do when I read book titles I’ve read.

New Game, Start by C.S. Poe

Title: New Game, Start

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: C.S. Poe

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 29, 2017)

Length: Short Story (38 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Reclusive medieval scholar, Edgar Royal, has a crush. On a guy. Not a big deal, except that said guy, Walter Chase, is a famous online gamer who has no idea Edgar even exists. Edgar has harbored these feelings for nearly a year, and when Walter announces on Twitter that he’ll be visiting New York City as a guest at the GamerOn convention, Edgar decides he’ll be one of the thousands of fans who responds to the message.

He definitely doesn’t expect to be singled out by the humble, gorgeous, out-and-proud heartthrob. And when it comes to dealing with people, Edgar’s skills are pretty nonexistent. Even with Walter giving all the right signals, Edgar lacks the courage do anything about the mutual attraction growing through their online courtship. He’s always been better with the written word, so maybe the perfect Christmas gift will say what he cannot. But if Edgar can’t get the present to Walter before the convention ends, he may miss out on the boyfriend of a lifetime.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-314-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Edgar has a crush on Walter. The problem is they have never met, they have never spoken and Walter is a famous online gamer. That is until one night and he just so happens to find out that his crush is going to be in New York. So he gets the courage up and sends him a message. To his shock, Walter message’s him back. Walter is a big name guy, where as Edgar is a quiet guy who translates old languages. It will be a nice surprise.

I enjoyed this story quite a bit. I still don’t understand the fascination with stars or famous people, but Edgar seems to make it easy looking. I was quite surprised by this story. It is a short story that has quite a bit in it. It was fun and enjoyable.

I would definitely recommend this book.

Don’t Judge Me by G.A. Hauser

Title: Don’t Judge Me

Author: G.A. Hauser

Genre: Contemporary

Length: Novel (244 pages)

Publisher: G.A. Hauser (October 3, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Married, forty-five year old Judge Lawrence Powers enjoyed a reputation as a fair, but tough, man. He often suspended sentences for first offenders and allowed them to work community service.
When a twenty-two year old defendant stood before him, Judge Powers once again, ruled in favor of allowing this man to work off his sentence by paying him to do his yard-work.

When Charlie McMullen was caught holding one of his brother friend’s bags of weed, Charlie figured he was done for. But, lucky him, he was brought before a former marine, and a man who looked scary, but maybe wasn’t.

As the judge and Charlie’s lives become intertwined, chaos follows.
With fall and Halloween approaching, Lawrence wondered if this year he was going to be given a treat, instead of tricked.

The judge. Held to a higher standard? Or…just another bad boy in a robe?

ISBN: B0762LG1VJ

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Lawrence is a married father of three. Charlie is a twenty two year old charged with drug possession and sentenced to community service. These two are hot together despite their age difference.

I found Lawrence to be honest to a point with a good head on his shoulders except when it came to Charlie. They were constantly getting into trouble with others finding them in certain situations. Charlie was sweet. I loved his character.

Although I myself am not a fan of married people being with others this story worked well considering Lawrence’ marriage was not a happy one in the least. I found myself cheering both Lawrence and Charlie on hoping they find their happy ever after.

Great read.

Ghostwriter of Christmas Past by T.A. Moore

Title: Ghostwriter of Christmas Past

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: T.A. Moore

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 28, 2017)

Length: Short Story (57 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Ever since ghostwriter Jason Burke ended up in loco parentis for his orphaned niece, Mallory, he’s been trying. He goes to parent/teacher events, and he makes packed lunches, so he definitely didn’t mean to forget about Christmas. He just hasn’t celebrated it since he left home under a cloud years ago.

Put on the spot, Jason makes the snap decision to take Mallory to see where he and her father spent their Christmases as kids. The last thing he expects is to run into Tommy, his ex—ex-best friend, ex-boyfriend—who is still living in town… and working as a sheriff’s deputy.

It’s hard to avoid someone in a small town—and maybe Jason doesn’t want to. He got Mallory a Christmas, and maybe now it’s time to get himself a Christmas boyfriend. But first, he owes Tommy some explanations.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-313-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Jason left his home and went to California when he turned eighteen. His home life was not all that hot and with his dad’s mean streak he just couldn’t stay home. It meant he left the man he loved behind. Then eight months ago, his brother and sister in law were killed, and now he was raising their daughter. He just wanted something to go right. Deciding to go back to his home town was the only thing he could think of when he remembered he forgot Christmas. He wanted to give Mallory something nice. It had not turned out the way he thought.

Tommy comes to his ex’s rescue when he sees their car in the ditch. Then he ends up offering them a place to stay for Christmas. Even still a bit upset with the way things had ended, he decided it was time. Now if only they could see what was standing in front of them.

Old friends and lovers, brought back together in the future. A smart ass kid that I am not sure about. It is a short story that had a lot of detail and depth to it. I love the old town nestled in snow, especially around Christmas time. The kids sounded more like seventeen then ten. Her words and reaction just seemed off. Also the guys just seemed to make the same tone to their language. Then there was the fact that Jason never really gave Tom the answers he would have needed. It went from angst to love to fast for me, even if it is the holidays. For such a short story there were to many feelings floating around, and just didn’t make a Christmas story sound right. The ending was abrupt and even more off.

I am sorry to say but this story just didn’t flow right for me.

Accidental Alpha by Poppy Dennison (2nd Edition)

Title: Accidental Alpha (2nd edition)

Series: Pack Partners # 1

Author: Poppy Dennison

Genre: Paranormal

Length: Novella (106 pages)

Publisher: Poppy Dennison (October 2, 2017)

Heat Level: Low – Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: A quiet life. A break from the dangers of being a cop. Yep, Lex Tompkins has his future all worked out. That is, until fate in the form of a stray toddler bites those plans in the ass. Well, technically Lex’s neck. Suddenly, he’s transformed into the Alpha of the secret werewolf clan hiding across the street.

As Lex tries to navigate his new role as the unlikely leader of a dysfunctional pack, he turns to Spencer Robinson for help. Spencer is the one shifter Lex can’t seem to resist, even though before his change he barely knew the man existed.

Lex has a lot to learn before he can truly embrace who he’s become. Because accidents happen, but fate marks its own territory.

ISBN: B0764ZX16C

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Lex is accidentally turned into a wolf after the Alpha dies. He is thrust into Alpha position and learning what all that entails. I found this story cute. I loved that it was not insta attraction between Spencer and Lex as is usually common in these types of stories.

The romance was in the background while the focus was on the pack and everyone else which i appreciated. I loved how Spencer did not automatically trust Lex’s change in attitude toward him yet at the same time I was confused when it happened as Lex did not seem romantically interested in him.

Great read.

A Holiday Crush by CJane Elliott

Title: A Holiday Crush

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: CJane Elliott

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 27, 2017)

Length: Short Story (50 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: San Francisco lawyer Brad Halberstam is in a rut. At forty-one, he’s successful but alone. Even his holidays are predictable—he spends every Christmas golfing in Napa with his ex-boyfriend. Then attractive but oh-so-young filmmaker Michael Blair invites him out. Brad joins Michael and his housemates in their holiday celebrations and learns that life can be joyful. He hesitates to saddle Michael with a much-older boyfriend but as their attraction ignites, Brad’s tempted to let Michael sweep him into a bright new future.

Michael lives in a group house in Berkeley. He loves making life into a celebration, especially during the holidays. Michael longs for a partner, and he hopes serious but sweet Brad Halberstam is the one. Michael’s infatuation grows over caroling and cookies, but his housemate reminds him that Michael always latches on to someone during the holidays, so he won’t be alone. After a misunderstanding, Michael loses heart, no longer sure if his relationship with Brad is real or just another Christmas crush.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-312-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Brad was a successful lawyer in San Francisco but not successful in his love life. His relationship with his parents are not the best, so every Christmas he goes with friends to Napa. He needs a new life it would seem. He sets his eyes on a very sexy young man who is filming the court case but isn’t to sure about what to do. Michael takes the choice out of his hands.

I got a kick out of this story and would love to read more about them. Although I could have done with out the political stuff involved in it, the message was received. It just made the Christmas tone a little set back and made if focus on the hate for those in politic’s. Although I do agree all the way, I would have wished the story to be just a bit more about them. Other than that issue, this story rocks.

I would definitely recommend it.

The Stormy Glenn Convention by Stormy Glenn

Title: The Stormy Glenn Convention

Author: Stormy Glenn

Genre: Paranormal

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (November 29, 2017)

Length: Novella (156 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: What happens when an author loses her muse?

After waiting ages for their stories to be turned into a series, paranormals from the worlds of Stormy Glenn’s imagination accept invitations to attend The Stormy Glenn Convention. Between attending classes on interspecies mating and learning how to control their inner growl, they hope to convince the author to write the next story in their saga.

When tragedy strikes and Stormy Glenn’s muse goes missing, it’s up to the characters she created to solve the mystery and bring back the voices in her head.

Without her muse, their stories may never be told.

ISBN: 978-1-64010-858-5

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is what happens when all your wonderful characters are in the same room.

One cutie pie who has been pregnant for pretty much five years just waiting for Stormy to let him give birth. Another who is a bear but can’t shift. Then there is the mind talking with your mate, wow. Classes on how interspecies mating works, learning how to control your inner growl, Scents 101- Who’s Who at the Zoo are just a few classes offered.

Stormy is running a tad bit late due to her nutty dog, but don’t worry she will show up soon. Or so they think, but something horrible has happened and if you want to know what, your going to need to read the book.

I had not expected this story so lets just say I spent the whole time laughing my ass off. Here the guys go off looking for her missing muse, and no one has a clue what one looks like. In a world of paranormal beings, something out of place is not out of place. It is a very fun story and damn if my attention had not been kept the whole time. Not a serious tone to it, ok maybe her being missing, but hey when you are five years pregnant sometimes you just have to take the laughter over the seriousness.

Loved this book and can not wait till Stormy’s next book. Especially when her muse comes back.

The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain by Ava Hayden

Title: The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Ava Hayden

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 26, 2017)

Length: Short Story (42 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Milo is too nice to say no when the desperate call goes out for more staff to work Boxing Day at Eden Consumer Electronics. It’s just until they sell the door-crasher specials, but it means he can’t see his billionaire boyfriend Lance until later that day.

Lance spends December 25 jetting back from a business trip, eager to see Milo. He calls as soon as his flight lands Boxing Day morning, only to find out that seven hundred and thirty televisions are cock-blocking him.

What’s the point of being a billionaire if you can’t spend your way around obstacles? Milo doesn’t want Lance solving his problems with cash, but he’ll never find out because Lance’s efficient personal assistant, William, is on the case. Unfortunately, even billionaires are subject to the law of unintended consequences—and these aren’t the kind Lance can buy his way out of.

Will Lance and Milo have their Boxing Day date? Or have Lance’s pushy billionaire ways finally gone too far?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-311-4

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Milo wanted to spend Christmas with his boyfriend, but instead he offered to help his boss at work. Or should I say Boxing Day, which I have no clue what that is (*snigger* It’s the day after Xmas, we Brits celebrate it ~Pixie~). He has quite a bit to sell but too bad no one was shopping at his particular store. Lance is a billionaire with a hot boyfriend. A boyfriend that has to work. So Lance and his best friend William, decide to help Milo in a very intriguing way.

This is a very cute little story that was a blast to read. It switches from present time to when they had met, which at first is a little off. However once I figured out what was going on, not so bad. I hate to admit that even though this was a blast to read, it really didn’t come off all that Christmas type of story.

It is a fun story and perfect for when you need that quick burst of sexy into your day. I would recommend it.

The Vampire Claus by Robert Winter

Title: The Vampire Claus

Author: Robert Winter

Genre: Holidays, Paranormal

Length: Novella (97 pages)

Publisher: Robert Winter Books (November 15, 2017)

Heat Level: Moderate

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: ’Twas the night before Christmas, but what’s stirring is a little more dangerous than a mouse.

Taviano is nearly two hundred years old and never wakes in the same place twice. Weary and jaded, the vampire still indulges in memories of childhood Christmases in Naples. He lingers in shadow, spying on mortals as they enjoy the holiday.

When Taviano spots a handsome young man in Boston loaded down with presents and about to be mugged, he can’t help but intervene. Soon he’s talking to joyous, naïve, strong-willed and funny Paul, a short-order cook who raised funds to buy Christmas presents for LGBTQ children. Before he knows what’s happened, Taviano is wrapped up in Paul’s arms and then in his schemes to get the presents delivered by Christmas morning.

A vampire turned into a Christmas elf… What could go wrong?

Vampire Claus is a 30,000-word standalone gay romance about a lonely vampire and a fearless mortal with no instinct for self-preservation. A heartwarming ending, no cliffhanger, and a young man who discovers he has a thing for fangs. Isn’t that what Christmas is all about?

ISBN: B0777C4CX1

Product Link: Amazon US | Amazon UK

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: I loved this story. You have two good men. One,Taviano, a nearly two hundred year old vampire turned against his will at twenty-two. He believes he is a monster and so lives a lonely existence away from humans. The only ones he feeds from are bad ones. It is this situation in where he meets Paul.

He sees three men stalking a lone figure and intercedes. Paul is smitten by Taviano, even after learning what he is. I liked the easy going way these two talked with each other. They seemed made for the other. They both are lonely and have good hearts despite their situations.

I was happy Taviano helped Paul Deliver gifts to the lgbtq children. This made them grow even closer.

Fantastic read and highly recommended.

Beyond The Tunnel by Daniel Mitton Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!

Hi peeps, we have Daniel Mitton popping in today with his new release Beyond the Tunnel, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant giveaway, so check out the post and enter that giveaway! <3 ~Pixie~

Beyond The Tunnel

(The Wizard Shifter 01)

Daniel Mitton

What would you do if you rode into a mountain tunnel in North Carolina and then rode out into a different world? Adam Stephens is about to find out…

Adam Stephens is a man with a mission. It has been three years since they chopped that malignant brain tumor out of his head, and he is off on a solo motorcycle camping trip through the Appalachian Mountains.

When he rides into the Pine Mountain Tunnel in North Carolina and rides out into another realm—a realm that comes complete with a big sexy grizzly bear shifter, mages, and an evil sorcerer—he isn’t sure he isn’t lying in the tunnel after crashing his bike. Can such a world exist? Or is he dreaming? If he is dreaming…it sure is realistic.

Along the way, there will be some major hurdles to surpass including no indoor plumbing…and no coffee. A man needs some basic luxuries, correct?

eXtasy Books

Continue reading “Beyond The Tunnel by Daniel Mitton Release Blast, Excerpt & Giveaway!” →

Crossroads by Logan Meredith Guest Post & Exclusive Excerpt!

Hi guys! We have Logan Meredith stopping by today with her upcoming release Crossroads, we have a wonderful guest post from Logan and a great exclusive excerpt, so check out the post and enjoy! <3 ~Pixie~

Crossroads

(States of Love 33: Indiana)

Logan Meredith

Despite the best-laid plans, life sometimes has other ideas.

Ethan Yoder has toiled to escape his small-minded farming community, and he’s finally earned his degree and made it to Indianapolis—where he lands a job at a pharmaceutical company and meets handsome and successful Marcus. Marcus introduces Ethan to the fun-filled life of his dreams—fancy dinners, courtside seats at NBA games, even a trip to the Indianapolis 500. But Marcus’s happy-go-lucky veneer hides a man frustrated with a job he hates and his failure at romance due to factors he’s only beginning to understand. Ethan still has his eyes on the prize—a lucrative career—and he must figure out how to hold on to one opportunity without letting another slip away. If he and Marcus can come to a deeper understanding, their road might lead to a happily ever after.

States of Love: Stories of love that span every corner of the United States.

Release date: 5th January 2018
Pre-order: Dreamspinner Press ǁ Amazon US ǁ Amazon UK ǁ B&N

Continue reading “Crossroads by Logan Meredith Guest Post & Exclusive Excerpt!” →

Homemade from the Heart by Bru Baker

Title: Homemade from the Heart

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Bru Baker

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 25, 2017)

Length: Short Story (55 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Craft store owner Grant has always been a sucker for a pretty face, and that goes double for a pretty face with an adorable sidekick. When seven-year-old Aubrey has her heart set on taking Grant’s already-full holiday craft series, he caves and gives up his one day off a week so she (and her hot guardian, Josh) can take private lessons. Their flirting ramps up week after week, and even though Josh isn’t with Aubrey’s mother, Grant can’t be sure the man isn’t straight. Maybe he’s just being friendly. And Josh, who most definitely is not straight, is afraid of being the creepy guy hitting on the teacher.

Frustrated by their stubbornness and cluelessness, Aubrey takes matters into her own hands. She decides the best gift to give Josh is something homemade and from the heart—a boyfriend they’ll both love.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-310-7

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Grant owns Make and Take craft store. He pretty much works every day except for Sunday. Sunday is his day with his friends. That is until he promises a sexy man and a cute seen year old to help them make some gifts for Christmas. To bad the man is straight. Josh is definitely not straight, and his eye is on Grant. He just needs the help of a little girl who is match making to get them going.

This was a pretty good short story. It was fully developed and so much detail that I was quite shocked at how short it was. It was also real charming. I loved the characters and lets just say Aubrey was a hit. She might be seven, but damn she acts so much older. She sure did set them up. It also made me want to do a little bit of crafting.

I had a lot of fun reading this and can guarantee that you will too.

Adrian’s Bodyguard by Shelby Rhodes

Title: Adrian’s Bodyguard

Series: Vampires of Vadin 01

Author: Shelby Rhodes

Genre: Fantasy, Paranormal

Length: Novella (134 pages)

Publisher: Siren-Bookstrand, Inc. (September 13, 2017)

Heat Level: Scorching

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Vampire King Adrian Bloodhart has faced many challenges in the thousands of years he’s been reigning. However, he had thought he’d moved past the stage of his life that was littered with assassination attempts. And, as if the attacks weren’t irritating enough, he finds himself saddled with a personal bodyguard he doesn’t feel he needs or even wants.

When Xavier Dayden had agreed to guard King Adrian, he had expected to be guarding a mature adult, but what he got was a petulant child. Adrian is odd as hell and too sexy for Xavier’s peace of mind. When Xavier finds his control slipping, he’s conflicted. Giving in could lead to so much more than a one night stand, but was it worth the possible heartbreak?

The choice is made when tragedy strikes where it is least expected and, as Adrian’s walls crack and fall, Xavier is there to pick up the pieces. Through the heartache, love is finally in their grasps.

ISBN: 978-1-64010-590-4

Product Link: Siren-BookStrand

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: A fantastic story about a king, Adrian, and his bodyguard, Xavier. After many repeated attempts on his life his friends insist on him having a bodyguard. Xavier is serious and hardly talks in the beginning but the attraction he feels for Adrian threatens to undo him.
Adrian is not what I expected in a king. He pouts, jokes and is downright devious when he wants something. Namely Xavier. Yet their is a serious side to him as well that will move heaven and earth to protect those he loves.

I really enjoyed the story except for the whole who was behind the assassination attempts. There was no real investigation that I could see only snippet every now and then about a woman then out of the blue this so called woman blabs all to her son then is taken into custody. Seemed like the majority of the book was based on relationships and hardly any mystery as that was rushed so much that it almost felt like it did not really happen.

Candy Canes and Cappuccinos by Elizabeth Coldwell

Title: Candy Canes and Cappuccinos

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Elizabeth Coldwell

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 24, 2017)

Length: Short Story (436 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Kyle is struggling to run his coffee shop on his own after his partner walked out on him. He has his eye on Steven, who comes into the shop each day, but hasn’t worked up the nerve to express his interest. When Steven asks Kyle to help out with Christmas lunch at the homeless shelter where he works, Kyle is too exhausted to agree. He donates his tips but still feels he’s blown his chances with Steven and made himself look like a selfish jerk.

On Christmas Day, Kyle sees a way to make amends—to both Steven and the needy people depending on his kindness. It’s the right thing to do, and Kyle hopes he can clear up the misunderstanding and show Steven the type of man he really is. Maybe then they can consider some dessert when the lunch at the shelter is over….

ISBN: 978-1-64080-309-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Kyle and his ex purchased a coffee shop that had been going well. It is going way better now that the ex is out of the picture. However there is a sexy young man that comes into the shop that Kyle has his eye on. When Stephen asks if he would help out at the shelter, well Kyle just wanted to rest. However things might, well your going to have to read it.

It is a very cute little story, perfect for when your taking a break. It just gives you a taste of something good. I do hope this author turns this into a longer story with a bit more to it.

It is a really sweet story that will make you smile.

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Beyond The Tunnel

Daniel Mitton

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Crossroads

Logan Meredith

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