Blurb:Ronan Greywolf has been keeping secrets from his mate. The first that he and Trey are mates at all, and the second is on the night they were first together, he got Trey pregnant with his child.
Trey is a human, and he’s been through enough trauma. After barely escaping a vampire blood farm with his sanity, Ronan didn’t want to spring this on him, and now he can feel the love of his life slipping away.
Trey always liked Ronan. Finding out he’s going to have the man’s child, forcing Ronan to be with him, was the last thing Trey wanted. Ronan insists on being around, but Trey knows it’s not really for him, and his heart breaks with each passing day. Could there be more to this than Trey believes? Is it possible Ronan really does love him?
Just as he and his mate are learning to trust each other, an evil from Trey’s past resurfaces, complicating everything.
Review: Ronan and Trey try to overcome their misunderstandings in each other while at the same time Trey come to grips with being told he is pregnant. An attack sends the house on lockdown and Fergus pushes Parker a little too far.
While I enjoyed the story there was not much in the way of action in this book. But there was plenty of drama to be had by all. Looking forward to seeing what else happens with the pack in further books.
Blurb: Out of the Cage: When an old bear shifter makes an unexpected discovery, he must rely on new friends to secure his future.
When a Shifter Council hearing proves corruption on the council, Councilman Regales Colearian takes it as a personal affront. Deciding to take matters into his own hands, he handles all grievances himself. That includes going to Stone Ridge to meet the shifters impacted by the scientists the wolf pack has been fighting against. Once there, he runs across the last person he ever thought he’d meet–his mate, Armand ‘Theodore’ Conway–who happens to be a human male. Regales learns that Theo knows about paranormals, but has no interest in bonding with one. Theo is a navy seal and has seen so much depravity he feels tainted by it. Plus, Theo isn’t gay. While Regales has never considered himself gay either, at over four hundred years old, he’s been alone a long, long time. He knows claiming Theo will turn his life upside-down, but it’ll be worth it. Stepping out of his own comfort zone isn’t easy, so can Regales manage to convince Theo to give a stuck-in-his-ways bear shifter a chance?
Review: Each book in the Wolves of Stone Ridge collection features a different romantic couple. To enjoy the overall story arc and crossover characters, I would recommend reading the series in sequential order. This series has a few branch off that you might want to read also.
I have been missing this book. I love a good story and Charlie always manages to give it. The worlds that she creates are unique, fresh and damn good. The characters are strong in both physical and mental, but you wouldn’t expect it in some of them. Some of the characters have a heart breaking story to tell as well. A hard past and sometimes they don’t even remember. There is always a bit of danger in the stories that makes it even rock harder.
The councilman has came to hear the truth from the Alpha. He is an old bear shifter and kind of stuck in his life. He wants to hear about the corruption that another councilman has created. To see for himself that the truth comes out and the pain is stopped. He just hadn’t expected to find his mate, a very human mate. Or maybe he is not so human.
Conway is a navy seal and is coming to talk to an old friend. One that he has found out that was a shifter and to find out what was going on. Conway is actually from a family of witches and knows all about the paranormal world. He just had not expected to get a mate, nor did he want one. To top it off, neither one has ever been with a man, so you can guess what is about to happen. Funny as hell also.
I got a kick out of these two, although I am quite surprised that Conway didn’t deck his friend or his mate for the little trick. They will heat up real fast though. I enjoyed reading this story and can not wait to get my hands on the next book. I had a lot of fun and I can guarantee that you will also.
Genre: Other Paranormal, Science Fiction, Urban Fantasy
Length: Novel (214pgs)
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 11, 2018)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖💖 5 Hearts
Blurb:To protect and serve…. All Vance Connelly ever wanted to do was continue his family’s tradition and join the Tampa Police Department, but his dreams were crushed the day he woke with the enhanced mark on his face. After years of struggling to adjust to life as an enhanced human, by a stroke of luck, he met Talon Valdez and became a proud member of the FBI’s Human Enhanced Rescue Organization.
Samuel “Angel” Piper is eager to leave his DEA undercover work behind as he joins the HERO team as Vance’s regular human partner. But Sam’s painful past is ever present, just below the surface of the life he has built for himself as an ambitious young agent. When the team investigates rumors of a new drug using enhanced blood, the case’s mysterious connection to Sam threatens not just his life but Vance’s.
Trust doesn’t come easy for Sam, but Vance is willing to fight to convince his partner that the strength of his heart might be the salvation they both need.
Review: Oh my god this story was so good. You have Vance and Sam who are partnered in the Enhanced team. Both men have issues that are similar but yet different. They are on a case of drugs being used with enhanced blood. An undercover mission reveals sinister goings on and it’s up to the team to stop it. Sam sends Vance mixed signals due to his past and his hang up with large guys which is to be expected. Vance is a gentle giant and understanding.
This series just keeps getting better and better the further along it continues. I love how each investigation is well thought out and written. New and old characters are always intertwined with twists and turns that have edge of your seat, nail biting results with action scenes that have you holding your breath awaiting the outcome.
It’s one of my favorite series to date as I simply adore the enhanced in this series. I am so looking forward to reading more especially with the way this story ended.
Two very different men face turning points in their lives after the collapse of long-term relationships….
Joel is a music teacher who knows it’s time to forget his ex and move on, while Marcus runs a lawn-mowing business and has come to Wellington to escape the reminders of a recent breakup. Although they’re opposites, when Joel and Marcus connect, their romance has the potential to hit all the right notes.
Too bad neither of them feels ready for new love.
With family and friends in common, dating is risky – things could get messy if it doesn’t work out. The sweet song of possibility draws them to each other, though, and they share a kiss following a Chopin prelude. But it will take some practice and perseverance to find their perfect harmony….
Review: Prelude to Love is the first Anne Barwell book which I’ve read, although I’ve already listened to the audio book, so I already knew what was going to happen. However, this is one of those books which I found more enjoyable as an ebook as opposed to listening to the audio. Which I think is a good thing since I remember feeling rather torn by the audio book and rated it lower than I would have thought.
Prelude to Love is a sweet romance between high school music teacher, Joel, and home handyman/landscaper, Marcus. Joel has had a difficult life his family since coming out of the closet, but he has a couple of friends who became his adopted family. In fact, Marcus is brother to Joel’s best friend. They are both coming out of disastrous long-term relationships, Marcus has completely relocated to be closer to his sister, brother in law and niece. The two become friends but with a little help from their friends they discover the possibility of more between them. All this is happening around a large school concert Joel must orchestrate (pun intended) to raise funds.
Joel is a passionate musician and teacher and probably a bit stubborn, he is so easy to connect and relate too. I’m not sure I connected quite so well with Marcus, but he is also very likable. From the start, the two men together have a quiet but strong chemistry and are obviously going to find their way together.
Being that this is part of the Dreamspun Desires line, it’s super sweet and has not a lot of over the top drama or angst and has a perfect little HEA for the two MCs. Written by Anne Barwell, who is a new author to me, I did enjoy the flow and writing style of the story as well. I just think the sweetness with not a lot of drama made this less exciting but perfect for the romantics out there.
Hi guys! We have Liam Livings popping in today with his new release Unlocking the Doctor’s Heart, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant $10 NineStar GC giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Unlocking the Doctor’s Heart
by
Liam Livings
Headstrong nurse Davie Penrose has moved to London from a small village in Cornwall to start work in the children’s transplant ward. He left to progress his career, but also to escape the painful memories of his ex-boyfriend, a workaholic doctor.
Ambitious Doctor Leo Westbury is in charge of a ward for now, but he has plans to be a medical director soon. Making use of his charm and avoiding commitment due to a painful past, he enjoys temporary relationships with male student nurses.
Clashing over a request to look around the ward before he starts work, Davie thinks Leo pompous, while Leo finds Davie bossy. Becoming friends over a shared passion for helping children on their transplant wards, they get closer through the inevitable ups and downs of caring for sick children. Physical attraction pulls them together; their pasts push them apart.
Both damaged and hurt in different ways, they might just find their happy ever after together.
Hi Peeps! We have S.E. Jakes visiting today with her new release If I Ever, we have a great excerpt and a fantastic giveaway so check out the post and leave a comment to enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
If I Ever
(Hell or High Water 04)
by
S.E. Jakes
Some ghosts refuse to stay buried . . .
Prophet and Tom have been through the wringer more times than they can count, both as partners in the field and in life. Yet despite it all, they’ve built something great together. But now they need to protect it again: Prophet’s old nemesis, John Morse, is back and threatening everything he loves.
Prophet is driven enough to take John down alone, and with a chance to do exactly that on the table, he runs with it, risking himself in the process. But trusting Tom to help him is so much more than mission critical.
It’s the final stand, and with Tom and his team behind him, Prophet’s in for the fight of his life.
Then a figure from his past goes missing, and the consequence of an old mission rears its head. As complications and destruction mount all around them, getting out alive becomes the most important mission of their lives.
Hi guys! We have Gregory L. Norris stopping by today with his new release Half Life, we have a great excerpt and a brilliant $10 NineStar GC giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Half Life
by
Gregory L. Norris
Whitney Abbott travels to the seaside Maine town of Window to begin a new life in his uncle’s home. Robert Abbott is well-to-do and owns several high-end restaurants. Whitney will start at the bottom and work his way up at the flagship. But from the moment Whitney exits his car in the drive of the big, brooding house, he senses the sinister atmosphere surrounding his relations.
His cousin November, princess of the estate, feigns joy at having Whitney in town. And November’s handsome athlete boyfriend, Griffin, is an enigma. Soon after his arrival, Griffin warns Whitney to leave. With nowhere to go—and certain that his attraction to Griffin goes both ways—Whitney is drawn into November’s malevolent plans. Plans that will pit Whitney against dark supernatural forces in order to save both his and Griffin’s lives.
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (15th November 2017)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts
Blurb: Love is a high-stakes game.
A century and a half ago, Ante Novak died on a Croatian battlefield—and rose three days later as a vampire. Now he haunts Las Vegas, stealing blood and money from drunken gamblers and staying on the fringe of the powerful vampire organization known as the Shadows. His existence feels empty and meaningless until he meets beautiful Peter Gehrardi, who can influence others with his thoughts.
An attraction flares instantly, bringing a semblance of life to Ante’s dead heart. But the Shadows want Peter too, and they’re willing to kill to get him. As Ante and Peter flee, they learn more about themselves and each other, and they discover that the world is a stranger place than either of them imagined. With enemies at their heels and old mistakes coming back to exact a price, how can Ante and Peter find sanctuary?
Review: Ok, so, I’m just going to get right into this one. Normally, I very much enjoy and look forward to Kim Fielding’s books, particularly the contemporary novels. This is, in fact, the first paranormal book that I’ve read by the author. Although, truth be told, I actually listened to the audio of this book before reading. Sometimes I find that I enjoy one format over the other. In this case, I have to admit, despite giving ebook and audio formats the same 3/5 rating, I think that I did enjoy the audio more than the text format.
The is about vampire Ante Novak (pronounced Ahn-tay), who was human until he died two hundred years prior on a bloody Croatian battlefield. He found himself in Las Vegas where he subsists on sex and blood from random hook ups, often stealing money from the men. Unlike vampires in many stories, he has no money. He grew up as a human peasant, working his family’s land and just never cared enough to get ahead or settle down somewhere permanently. Las Vegas is run by the vampire mob, called the Shadows, of which he knows the leader. Ante doesn’t has always refused to work for them but he knows he is on borrowed time where they are concerned.
Between all this, Ante meets Peter Gerhardti, who appears to be very human but that is called into question from the outset. Ante is instantly attracted to the man who sates him in more ways than one. When the Shadows set their eyes on Peter, Ante finds a reason to fight for the first time since he was killed in battle. The mad dash the two men make is what I find to be the best part of the book
The story itself is original and was enjoyable for the most part, I will admit that much.
However, for me, there were a few things that just didn’t suit me well at all. Firstly, the pace of the story was a little too choppy, the pace went up and down like waves and I found it hard to get into the book and relate to the two MCs. Furthermore, I found myself a little disappointed that it took 4 chapters for the two MCs to meet, let alone end up in bed, and a few more chapters after that before their stories merged. Within this time, we also had to hear about the vampire MC’s one-night stands where he would feed. I know that this will be a hard thing for some readers to get into because, let’s face it, it’s not really what we’re here for.
The saving grace of this book was the last few chapters, on the other hand, were good – well paced, full of action and I was now much more certain in the chemistry and emotion between the two MCs. I think because they took so long to get together I didn’t really connect to Ante or Peter until I finally got my head around who they were.
Publisher: Mischief Corner Books (8th December 2018)
Heat Level: Nil
Heart Rating: 💖💖💖💖 4 Hearts
Reviewer: Pixie
Blurb: Javier Fernandez is a climate scientist living in a research station near the South Pole. Since his husband was killed in a car crash, he’s preferred to be alone, and is less than thrilled to have a junior scientist thrust upon him by his rich patron.
Col Steele is a trans man fleeing a bad break-up. He is ready for the next step in his career, and eager to spend Christmas anywhere but at home.
When a crack in the ice separates the two men from safety, they are forced to come to terms with their own losses and each other.
Review: Slow Thaw is not the book for you if you’re looking for instant passion and sex; it’s a story for those who love an interesting storyline mixed with two men facing an intense situation and discovering their feelings for each other.
Col Steele is excited by the opportunity to work with Javier Fernandez, spending the next six months on the Ross Ice Shelf at Bettencourt Station is a dream come true. It also comes at a time when he really wants to get away from spending Christmas alone. But Javier is gruff and abrupt, and Col has no intention of letting the man walk all over him.
Javier has buried himself away at Bettencourt Station for the last two/three years (depending on which sentence you read); the loss of his husband still haunts him and working constantly is a relief. Dealing with research scientists is his burden to bare and with a new one coming in he’s dreading the man’s behaviour/attitude. But he gets a surprise when Col proves to be helpful and useful, but memories haunt him as Col reminds him of his husband.
This is a really great story that while set around Christmas time isn’t a Christmas story, it’s a story about finding love in terrible circumstances, and of a reminder of what we humans are doing to this world.
The descriptions of the setting is astounding, you can easily picture the ice shelf, of a terrible crack racing towards you as the ice shelf breaks apart, the stunning view of something that has been around for hundreds of thousands of years as it succumbs to human idiocy. It really is breath-taking how J. Scott Coatsworth can transport you into his settings with just a few well-placed words.
The story is set over a short period of time so it’s the beginning of a relationship between Col and Javier, there’s no meeting of the eyes across the ice and falling into each other’s arms, no it’s a small bud of attraction that could become so much more.
I will admit that I would love to see this story developed and expanded on, it would be amazing to read about Col and Javier and the difficulties they’d face as they help to save the ice shelfs.
I recommend this to those who love stories that have challenges for our MC’s, who adore stories where love is a future promise, who love well written storylines and the barest glimpse of happiness for two men who have had difficult experiences.
Blurb: The world of writers, readers, and reviewers is a close-knit family of friends, fans, and fiction fanatics. That’s the world Milo Cook and Logan Hunter reside in—thriving on the give and take of creativity, the sharing of stories and ideas, and forever glorying in their boundless love of books and the words that make them breathe.
But sometimes words can cut too deep. And when they do, there is inevitably a price to pay.
What begins for Milo and Logan as a time of new love and gentle romantic discoveries, becomes before it’s over a race for their lives and for the lives of everyone they know.
Who would ever suspect that an entity as beautiful as the written word could become a catalyst for revenge? And ultimately—murder?
Review: Wow, I think this author is trying to say something. Logan is always making sure his reviews are honest and somewhat gentle, even with author’s that are not all that. After the death of the man he loves, he decides to head west to make a new life for himself. He had wanted to meet a certain author and maybe get his autograph. He just hadn’t expected Milo to be what he was.
Milo has been making a name at writing some amazing stories. He was however a bit down that no one had come to see him and get his autograph on his latest novel, but that is the life of an author. That is until one hell of a sexy man comes in and not only gets his autograph but bought two of his stories. A drink does sound good, now doesn’t it.
With all of that going on, someone is killing those who write some pretty nasty reviews. He or she has a knack for doing it too. So much so that they have picked their next target.
I liked the hidden word in the story and I will admit that it was kind of creepy. However I had a blast reading this story and the characters just rocked. It does have a darker tone to it that I don’t care for but the author just turned it to right tone. Now I was at a stopping point in parts of the story and it didn’t keep my attention like it should have. There are just a few issues I had, but those were on me.
I could not guess who the killer was and that was a good sign of an amazing mystery author. It did catch my attention like it should have and it did give me some horrible murder scenes. The romance was worked in their just perfect. I had a blast reading this and can’t wait to start in on the next book. I would definitely recommend it.
Blurb: Life on the prairie isn’t easy, especially since the prairie has a habit of eating people it doesn’t like. Ruse knows the dangers, but there’s so much more to the prairie than death.
The nearby country of Ammet, however, only sees an exploitable resource to be conquered. Caught between the political machinations of Ammet and his love for the prairie, Ruse can only hope he doesn’t wind up killed by one or the other.
Review: Interesting story about criminals who are sent out into the prairie, that is a sentient being, to try and build a community. But alas it’s not as simple as it appears.
The people have to contend with Mesic the being who was once human but turned during a magical war. Not to mention the corruption of those in government in Ammet with plans to do away with the criminals and take the villages for themselves.
But, there is Russ, a man wrongfully accused and ousted by his brother who has a plan to stop Ammet in it’s tracks if all goes according to plan.
Blurb: — Being kidnapped by two werewolves is an adventure after all, right? Right?! —
Quinn
If Quinn wants to get the best photos for his travel blog, no gate is too tall, and no ‘do not enter’ sign actually means he won’t go in. What he finds in a hidden exclusion zone by Chernobyl blows his mind. Mutants? Monsters? He doesn’t know, but he is bound to find out when not one but two of them break into his hotel. Too bad the rules and attitudes they have toward sex don’t match Quinn’s at all.
Dima
Born with a disabled hand, smaller than the other werewolves, Dima is the lowest of the low in his pack, but when he meets the loveliest human he’s ever seen, he knows his luck has changed. The last thing he expects though is his beloved friend Nazar turning on him once Dima’s affection for Quinn deepens, and he refuses to be mounted by Nazar anymore.
Nazar
Nazar is a high ranking soldier in his pack, but in his powerful body hides a gentle soul, and all he wants is to escape the pack with Dima. But once Dima claims Quinn as his, secrets Nazar has so far kept hidden rear their ugly head. The werewolf language doesn’t have words to describe what they crave, so Quinn might be the only one to help them solve the puzzle of the desires that go against the rules of their pack.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: shifter, werewolf, menage, knotting, urban exploration, cultural differences, disability, hierarchy, USSR, isolated from the world, society of men, PTSD, military, secret organization
WARNING: This book contains steamy content, graphic violence, and elements that might be considered taboo..
Quinn has wanted to visit Chernobyl and take pictures so he goes on a tour. The guides strongly caution them not to go into the darkened area on the map. Of course Quinn does not listen. There he discovers a beast roaming around but it seems friendly. He ends up having to be rescued due to injuring himself.
Dima is the werewolf he met. Dima tells his lover Nazar what he experienced and the two hatch a plan to snare themselves a human. I liked these three together. Nazar only turned human once. The rest he is in werewolf form, but Dima stole my heart. I felt for him and what he has been thrown being the bottom of the pack and disfigured. I like that Nazar took up for him when he noticed others picking on him.
It was an interesting mix of characters and details surrounding the pack that lives near Chernobyl.
Great read.
Lisa’s Review: 💖💖💖 3 Hearts
Nazar is one of the stronger wolves and Dima’s protector. He has a big heart and loves Dima quite a bit. He protects Dima, because to the pact Dima is not only the lowest of the pack but should have been culled at birth. They are at different ends of the spectrum when it comes to the pack.
Quinn is a travel blogger and pretty good at his job. He looks for the unexpected and usually gets in trouble for it. So here he was looking at the old land after the big bomb destroyed much of it, to what it looked like now. Here his guides were warning him and the others to stay away from the black zone, well Quinn is stubborn to say the least. He heads straight for it and comes across something he had never expected, Dima in werewolf form.
Kidnapped by two werewolves is not exactly what he had expected but his curiosity is going to get him into trouble. Dima is the one that falls first, but a threesome is going to be in his future.
Ok first off I am going to say that this was the longest feeling book I have ever came across. It had more detail to it but it didn’t turn out the way it was suppose to in my eyes. It felt a bit off and fell flat in many parts. I didn’t care for the characters at all, except for Dima. Quinn was an ass and didn’t really show me that he truly loved Dima. As for Nazar, he still called Dima his brother instead of his mate near the end. Plus he turns on Dima, who was suppose to be his best friend, just because he has feelings for another. It just felt off to me.
Overall I couldn’t get into the book like I should have. It was a bit on the dull side and didn’t really catch my attention at all. I felt disappointed in it and can’t say that I would read it any more than this one time.
Blurb: Abe Golden is the Beta of the Golden Pelts, the most powerful lion pride in the country. Abe’s always been the dutiful lion prince, always putting his pride first, until he’s made the worst mistake of his life.
David is a male Omega panther, member of a pack that’s been the enemy of the Golden Pelts for years. One mistake led to another and now, David doesn’t want to stop seeing Abe. When David makes the decision to stop seeing each other, his heart is torn. When David discovers a cub is growing in his belly, he knows his pack will slay him for carrying the enemy’s child.
When David appears at the Golden Pelts’ pride compound, carrying his child, Abe knows its time he right his mistakes. His pride mates might see David as a spy, an enemy, but now that David’s in his grasp, Abe never intends to let his mate go.
Review: This story about Abe and David seemed rushed. I was expecting some tension from the pride due to David’s animal, a panther. But only one person said anything and that was once. I felt this story could have benefited from some conflicts and been so much better than it was.
As it is this story is drama based about two separate species that are mates yet go through a rough patch. Afterwards they find each other and things are HEA.
O.k. read with the typical same mistakes as the second book regarding errors.
Blurb: Andrew Barker is ready for the holidays. His perpetually bright and cheery personality feel right at home for Christmas. He has time off from work and a husband who’s waiting for him at home, what else would he need?
Well, he had no idea he would be needing to sign divorce papers – let’s start there.
Declan Rose-Covington, part of a luxury hotel dynasty, is coming into Stonewall Investigations because he needs help with a family issue. With his mom’s huge holiday retreat around the corner, he’s hoping to solve it before Santa comes to town. The last thing he’s expecting is to enter the detective agency and fall for the strikingly handsome man sitting behind the front desk.
Of course, life has ways of delivering well-wrapped surprises.
When Declan and Andrew meet they both feel an instant connection. Soon, the connection grows powerful enough to push Declan toward a crazy proposition: invite Andrew to the family retreat as a fake boyfriend. Andrew would get a nice week-long vacation out of it and Declan would avoid the judgemental jabs from all the spoused-up family members.
The potential for disaster was there, but there was also a chance to truly make this the most wonderful time of the year. And that was something neither of them wanted to miss out on.
Review: Andrew loved the holidays, Christmas was his favorite of them all. He went all out at home and at work. That is until he found out that his husband had someone else dancing on his pole. So a divorce we will go but when a sexy man looking to hire one of the detectives gives him the eye, well maybe Christmas wasn’t lost.
Declan knew someone was stealing from his mother. He was pretty sure it was his step-father, but he isn’t for sure. So it Christmas time and he was do at the home for the holidays. Lets just say he wasn’t looking forward to it. The one and only without someone else might just be a bit painful. So he asks Andrew, who I might add he has the hots for, to pretend to be his boyfriend. Well lets just see how long it last, the pretend part.
Many twists and turns to go in this amazing book. Now normally I would suggest reading these stories in order but this one can actually be read alone. For a Christmas story you have action, some very hot smooches, excitement and the hope of new love just waiting for you to read. I only found one issue with the story, but it is probably just me. I loved the characters quite a bit and lets just say Declan’s mom and grandmother are a hoot. They are what I would love to have for a family.
I wished this author put these books out faster because they are a blast to read. I get a kick out of the whole series. I absolutely loved reading it and can’t wait to read it again. I can guarantee that it will be read many times over.
Blurb:Sometimes the best Christmas gift is knowing what you really want.
Rusty Baker is a rich, entitled, oblivious jock, and he might have stayed that way if he hadn’t become friends with out-and-proud Oliver Campbell from the wrong side of the tracks. When Oliver kisses him goodbye before Rusty leaves for college, Rusty is forced to rethink everything he knows about himself.
But nothing can help Rusty survive a semester at Stanford, and he returns home for Thanksgiving break clinging to the one thing he knows to be true: Oliver is the best thing that’s ever happened to him.
Rusty’s parents disagree, and Rusty finds himself homeless for the holidays. But with Oliver’s love and the help of Oliver’s amazing family, Rusty realizes that failing college doesn’t mean he can’t pass real life with flying rainbow colors.
Review: Rusty has always gotten everything he wanted without even really trying, he might be expected to follow in his father’s footsteps but he fully admits to being the stereotypical dumb jock. When he meets Oliver his views begin to change, he wants more than to go into his father’s business, he want to do something that makes him happy. Oliver is out and proud, he’s from the wrong side of the tracks and his best friend puts himself down. Kissing Rusty is one of the best things he has ever done and being there for Rusty as he struggles through his first semester at Berkeley keeps him hoping that Rusty will wake up to his true feelings. Rusty heads home for the holidays knowing just what he wants but his parents have very different ideas, when he finds himself tossed out on the street it’s Oliver and his family who help him back on his feet, but can Rusty accept the love that Oliver offers or will his stubborn pride keep them apart?
This is an incredibly wonderful story where a young man finds himself and sets out to live his life in happiness and accepting that family is more than who you are born to. Rusty is a character who is easy to fall in love with, he has no illusions about himself and knows his limits, although he is very hard on himself and self-disparaging. Oliver is a lovely young man who guides Rusty as much as he can to recognize his feelings and to also buff up Rusty’s confidence. They make a perfect couple who have the usual teenage problems involving pride and confidence, but their support of each other is heart-warming.
We follow these two young men as they make friends and develop a friendship that can and does stand against pressure. Rusty is oblivious to many things around him but finds that he has much more going for him in a world he makes for himself, rather than the world his parents want for him. His relationship with Oliver is the cornerstone for all that he wants to build and we see his heartache as he strives to be something he isn’t, we see Oliver and his family pulling around Rusty as his own parents turn their back on him and we see Rusty blossoming into a man to be proud of. Rusty and Oliver’s relationship is an incredible one, they have their ups and downs but it is all based in love and when they are together, it makes you smile.
I adored this story. I couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what would happen to these two young men as they faced life with love from one side but disapproval from the other side. The story is from Rusty’s point of view but you get to know Oliver perfectly through Rusty’s eyes and Rusty is an honest character, there’s no false pretense in him so what you see is what you get.
The story is written perfectly, the characters come to life and it is a storyline that happens all too often in real life. You get behind these two young men cheering for them as they build their lives, you feel their heartache, pain and disappointment, their confusion and hurt, their love and happiness and their dreams of the future.
I recommend this to those who love young adults starting their lives, fantastic characters, wonderful family, new blossoming love and an incredible ending.
Three-hundred-and-fifty-year-old warlock Tikron must find his true love or forfeit his immortality. But if he hasn’t found his ideal mate in all these centuries, the prospects don’t look too bright.
That is, until he sees mathematician Richard Beaumont. It’s love at first sight and Tikron’s future just go a whole lot brighter.
Except Richard doesn’t believe in love at first sight. He doesn’t believe in love at all. He certainly doesn’t believe in magic. His life is ruled by statistics and logic, and they tell him a relationship with Tikron has only a 10 percent chance of success. That’s unacceptable—even if the attraction between them is off the charts.
With his powers waning and the clock ticking down, Tikron’s last hope is showing Richard the true meaning of magic.
Review: I was not sure at all what to expect from this book. I had to look back to find out in January 2017 I heard the audio for SJD Peterson’s My Hometown in Dreamspun Desires and despite giving it a high rating, I don’t really remember it but from my review I know that it was a fluffy type of romance, which is exactly what Calculated Magic is.
The story is about cursed warlock, Tikron. Warlocks are an immortal race of paranormals, however, thanks to his greedy clan leader, Tikron has been cursed. If he doesn’t find his true love by his 350th birthday, his life could very well be forfeit. The problem is, after centuries of loneliness and meeting, loving mortals he finds it hard to open his heart to find the one who could be with him for the rest of his days (the loophole is that a true love can share his life force). Fair enough, I suppose. Other than his mother and his best friend Ry, he only has family who cannot see him because they live in the clan that he can longer be apart of.
Tikron is a kind heart and he definitely deserves the fluffy romance treatment, but even his romance is not smooth when he meets mathematician Richard Beaumont.
Richard’s character was difficult for me to get a hold on. I know I’m already reading a paranormal book, but a man who was raised by two mathematicians that base all decisions on calculations and risk analysis was a but ridiculous for me. Other than that, Richard is exactly what I would expect from a human finding out about magic and for that part of his character I really liked him. He is at heart a lonely man and really needed some love in his life that wasn’t provided by his beloved dog Albert.
But Tikron is up for the challenge. There are a couple stand out points for me that made me really liked this story. Firstly, I liked the fact that Tikron, despite being scared of his fate past his birthday, did not tell Richard he was on a time crunch. The other thing that I really loved was Tikron’s best friend, Ryxium, aka Ry. Ry is a sweetheart. Part of me hopes that he gets his own story and his own HEA. He is a wonderful friend and although he is a flirt he only wants the best for his best friend and will do anything to save him. There is one funny scene where he helps Tikron out in a park. That boy has sass!
This is a fluffy romance, low on angst and drama. Mixed with the paranormal setting I found it to be relaxing read. If you’re after an easy going romance, even with one of the MCs being a bit odd, then this is the book for you.
Hi guys! We have M.D. Neu stopping by today with his new release Contact, we have a great excerpt and a fantastic $10 NineStar GC giveaway so check out the post and enter the giveaway! ❤ ~Pixie~
Contact
(A New World 01)
by
M.D. Neu
A little blue world, the third planet from the sun. It’s home to seven billion people—with all manner of faiths, beliefs, and customs, divided by bigotry and misunderstanding—who will soon be told they are not alone in the universe. Anyone watching from the outside would pass by this fractured and tumultuous world, unless they had no other choice. Todd Landon is one of these people, living and working in a section of the world called the United States of America. His life is similar to those around him: home, family, work, friends, and a husband.
On the cusp of the greatest announcement humankind has ever witnessed, Todd’s personal world is thrown into turmoil when his estranged brother shows up on his front porch with news of ships heading for Earth’s orbit. The ships are holding the Nentraee, a humanoid race who have come to Earth in need of help after fleeing the destruction of their homeworld. How will one man bridge the gap for both the Humans and Nentraee, amongst mistrust, terrorist attacks, and personal loss? Will this be the start of a new age of man or will bigotry and miscommunication bring this small world to its knees and final end?
Blurb:Can love survive the perils of MacGregor House?
The Supernatural Explorers are back and looking for their next big paranormal case. They might’ve found it in a plea from Payne, a mild-mannered librarian who has inherited the family mansion—MacGregor House. Since moving in a few months ago, Payne’s exhausted the list of ghost hunters and experts in his quest for help. The Supers are his last chance.
So why does normally good-natured cameraman Will take an instant dislike to Payne? For that matter, why has he felt irritable and angry since they arrived at the site? It soon becomes clear that the answers they seek will be found in the basement—where nobody has gone since Payne was a little boy. As the haunting grows deadlier, things get sweeter between Will and Payne, but all hell’s about to break loose when they breach the basement door.
Review: The Librarian’s Ghost is the second book in Sean Michael’s The Supers series. I’ve been really looking forward to reading this one after really enjoying the first book, The Supers. Not only that, I’ve enjoyed a number of Sean Michael’s books in the past and totally keen to give the author another go. I don’t think you need to have read the first book to enjoy this one, but since I loved the first book I totally recommend reading it if you haven’t already.
This is a fun story that reminds me something of a gothic romance. You got the big, old family estate that has more things that go bump in the night than you can poke a stick at. You have an almost recluse-type owner who inherited the place from his grandfather. Then you got the stranger who comes to help uncover the big mystery that is holding spirits to the home.
That’s the key elements. Now for the MCs: one is the cameraman for The Supernatural Explorers, the group of friends who investigate haunted buildings, partly in the hope to make a television show. Will has been on enough cases to know that ghosts are real, but he still has a healthy skepticism.
Their client, Payne Macgregor, is a quiet librarian who likes to keep to himself and has painstakingly tried to renovate the rambling family mansion that he had inherited from his grandparents. His grandmother, who had recently died, hadn’t exactly made it a secret that there were things that could hurt Payne in the home. However, it took Payne some time before he gave into the fact that he had ghosts. He just needed to find someone, or some people that could help him get rid of his angry housemates.
As I said before, the story is fun and I don’t want to give too much away. This is a story that incorporates ghost hunting with family folklore. It’s the stories from the Macgregor family’s past that give the most important details. The problem is Payne doesn’t know how to handle it all.
If you’re not sure this is the type of book for you, I recommend this one for people that like watching supernatural investigations and would be intrigued in reading one where there is some great romance.
Blurb: After the hard winter of 1888 ended Alby Boyle’s work as a Nebraska ranch hand, he returned to New York City in search of his long-lost family. His mother and brothers are nowhere to be found, however, and after Alby’s years of absence, Five Corners no longer feels like home. His prospects seem as dim as the nighttime alleys.
When Alby pauses to admire an angel ornament in a department store window’s Christmas display, he meets Xeno Varnham-Summerfield. Wealthy, handsome, and enthusiastic, Xeno brings Alby some temporary cheer. But for Alby to achieve his dreams of love and a real home, well, that may take a bit of holiday magic.
Review: Alby returns to New York City after a freezing hard winter finished the Nebraskan ranch he worked at, he’s decided to try and track down the family he hasn’t seen since he was thirteen but the building they used to live in is long gone.
When Alby pauses to admire a Christmas Angel in a department stores window he meets Xeno who offers advice, and when Alby keeps bumping into the man outside the department store Xeno makes his interest clear.
This is a wonderful little story that transports you to the streets of New York City in 1888, the setting is brilliantly described and you can immerse yourself in what life was like back then.
Alby is a wonderful character who is comfortable in himself and his skills, he might just be a ranch hand but he still manages to find a job working with horses with the help of Mr. Caruthers the manager of the YMCA. But it doesn’t stop him from being drawn to the department store and Xeno.
Alby is the focus of this story and we learn about his life from childhood to adulthood, you find out some interesting little tidbits about America in 1888, we root for Alby as he tries to find his family and hope that his families fortunes had turned and they were all okay.
While we find out a bit about Xeno it’s in short bursts and while he might come across as a bit forward (hell you don’t just flirt and compliment a guy in 1888), we don’t actually get what he was thinking or what signs he’d seen that would indicate that Alby might be amenable, he comes across as a man who knows what he wants and will aim to get it.
Other than not getting Xeno’s side of the tale I enjoyed this story and admired both men, their relationship is sweet and Xeno’s father very accepting for that time. That they could build a life together and have acceptance from those closest to them was just wonderful and leaves you with warm fuzzy feelings.
I recommend this to those who love historical romances, who adore characters who are interesting and sweet, and who adore happy endings.
Blurb: What could be frightening enough to freeze the blood of a centuries-old Vampire turned K-pop idol?
Being bound to someone.
University student Cheong Jin-woo dreams of working in the arts, especially for BL Entertainment and his favorite band, Bam Kiseu. After seeing the band perform, Jin-woo separates from his friends to explore. What he discovers backstage will change his life.
Does he embrace it or run?
Jung Ki-tae has kept his secret for centuries—until a young fan interrupts his feeding. Even more disturbing is the instant bond Ki-tae feels with Jin-woo—a complication he refuses to allow. Yet resisting becomes increasingly difficult as Jin-woo and a group of students win the chance to make a video for the band, working closely with them for weeks. The obsession Ki-tae felt toward Jin-woo—even before tasting his blood—deepens into genuine feelings, feelings that terrify Ki-tae. But when he finds a way to break the bond, he’s torn between severing the connection and protecting Jin-woo….
Especially with a mysterious killer getting closer.
Review: The band Bam Kiseu consists of band members that are vampires. Ki-Tae and his brothers are a tight family along with the father who saved then from their lives at early ages. When a group of university students win a contest they work together with the band for a period of time. Jin-Woo is part of this group.
A threat soon appears, threats are made against Ki-Tae and Jin-Woo. The family and students work together to protect the ones threatened and discover who the culprit is. This was a wonderful blend of several cultures. The most unique and interesting aspect about the story is it told from the band members and the students different POV’s.
I was intrigued to read about each characters thoughts and feelings as the story progressed. I truly enjoyed the story and learning about everyone and their abilities. The different couples was an added bonus but I do admit I was a little put off by the female in the group as I did not want to read m/f.
There is a glossary at the beginning of the book to help with certain words which was a great help as I read. Great story with a lot of depth and drama.
Title: Protecting His Mate and Unborn Child
Title: Enticing his Navy Seal
Title: The Strength of His Heart
Title: Prelude to Love
Title: Slow Thaw
Title: Words
Title: Ground Insurrection
Title: Werewolves of Chernobyl
Title: Best Royal Mistake
Title: Deck The Halls
Title: Christmas Kitsch
Title: Calculated Magic
Title: The Librarian’s Ghost
Title: Summerfield’s Angel
Title: Night Kiss